Jacqueline Maguire Named Assistant Director of the Training Division Director Christopher Wray has named Jacqueline Maguire as the assistant director of the Training Division. Ms. Maguire most recently served as special agent in charge of the Philadelphia Field Office. Ms. Maguire was assigned to the New York Field Office when she joined the FBI as a special agent in 2000 and was a member of the Joint Terrorism Task Force. She was the lead agent for the investigation of the five hijackers of American Airlines Flight 77 after the 9/11 terror attacks. In 2006, Ms. Maguire was promoted to supervisory special agent, and then to unit chief, in the Counterterrorism Division at FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C. She moved to the Washington Field Office in 2011 as a supervisory special agent. She returned to FBI Headquarters in 2014, when she was named the special assistant to the executive assistant director of the Human Resources Branch. Ms. Maguire was promoted in 2016 to assistant special agent in charge of the Birmingham Field Office in Alabama, where she oversaw all criminal and administrative matters. She was named section chief in the Office of Public Affairs at FBI Headquarters in 2017 and promoted to deputy assistant director in 2018. She was promoted in 2019 to special agent in charge of the Criminal Division of the New York Field Office. In 2021, she was promoted to special agent in charge of the Philadelphia Field Office. Ms. Maguire has earned several awards during her FBI career, including the Attorney Generals Award for Excellence in Furthering the Interests of U.S. National Security and the Attorney Generals Award for Distinguished Service. Prior to joining the FBI, Ms. Maguire worked at the Office of the Medical Examiner in Suffolk County, New York. She earned a bachelors degree in comprehensive science from Villanova University, a masters degree in criminal justice from Long Island University, and a masters degree in homeland defense and security from the Naval Postgraduate School. This story has been published on: 2023-09-27. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. 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. How to avoid fraudulent schemes and keep your personal data and finances safe? How to install apps removed from App Store on iPhone? Hundreds of people in Spider-Man costumes gather in Argentina Proposals being submitted to EU delegation regarding support for forcibly displaced Armenians from Karabakh discussed Armenia ombudsperson sends petitions to relevant agencies regarding Karabakh ex-defense minister Levon Mnatsakanyan Innovative methods revolutionizing energy efficiency in building design Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem cancels controversial deal related to Cows' Garden estate Germany FM to visit Armenia, Azerbaijan Vahan Kerobyan, Alkis Vryenios Drakinos discuss projects being implemented by EBRD in Armenia (PHOTOS) Head of EU civilian mission in Armenia briefs President on details about their monitoring Dollar, euro fall in Armenia Armenia Anti-Corruption Committee chief: We have solved March 1, 2008 case 28 countries adopt declaration on safe use of AI Armenia deputy PM, Japan envoy discuss opportunities for development of bilateral trade, economic relations Travis Barker announces Kourtney Kardashian's due date revealing the name of their baby boy Karabakh parliament speaker imprisoned by Azerbaijan contacts relatives twice from Baku Samkharadze: Georgia wants to become regional leader by contributing to Armenia-Azerbaijan relations normalization Yerevan received, responded to Russia proposals on process of Armenia ratification of Rome Statute, MFA says Experts: Azerbaijan uses Pegasus as cyber weapon against Armenia - with Israel's permission Patient who underwent world's second heart transplant with genetically modified pig heart dies A giant peacock: Another shocking Halloween look by Heidi Klum Border with Azerbaijan is calm, there is no tension, head of EU monitoring mission in Armenia says in Yeghegnadzor Karabakh president negotiated with Azerbaijan special services? EU monitoring mission in Armenia opens headquarters in Yeghegnadzor Holding Snoop Dogg concert in Armenia is vital, PMs office says Lemkin Institute for Genocide Prevention issues Red Flag Alert for Azerbaijan in Armenia Why do new Xiaomi 14 overheat and is it worth worrying about? Armenia, Romania MFAs hold political consultations in Bucharest World Bank: Economic activity growth increases, insignificant inflation recorded, exports drop in Armenia Armenia, Iran sign memorandum of understanding on strengthening cooperation, workforce exchange Alexander Spendiaryan 152nd birth anniversary events kicking off in Yerevan Blinken mentions Armenia during US Senate hearing Why its not a good idea to charge your iPhone 15 with wireless chargers in cars Newspaper: Armenia PM announces cancellation of point 9 of November 2020 trilateral statement TUMO Labs launches an 12-week AgriTech incubation program Paris Masters: Alcaraz out in his opening match Paris Masters: Karen Khachanov advances to Round of 16 Saudi Arabia to host FIFA 2034 World Cup NASA's New Horizons data hint at hidden ocean beneath the surface of Pluto Karabakh president receives French, Italian members of European Parliament Russian peacekeepers continue to remain in Nagorno-Karabakh, Russia MoD says Why did Windows Phone smartphones fail? Red Cross helps elderly people left in Karabakh to relocate to Armenia (VIDEO) Central Bank chief: Armenia residents deposits increased by about 25% EBRD regional director to Armenia finance minister: We are ready to assist those displaced from Karabakh Armenia labor, social affairs minister attends Armenian-Iranian forum in Tehran European Union increases humanitarian funding to Armenia by about 1.7M WhatsApp has a new useful feature 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 NASA's Lucy probe flies up to Dinkinesh Belt asteroid: Meeting to take place tomorrow 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? How much is X worth now and how much did Elon Musk overpay for it? 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 Vahan Bichakhchyan: I got very attached to Pogon, fans, city, everyone Apple introduced new MacBook Pro and iMac with M3 chips: What are they and how much do they cost? Newspaper: Karabakh army handed over ammunition not to Azerbaijan, but to Russian side Messi wins 8th Ballon d'Or award 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 Is OnePlus 12 most powerful smartphone of 2023? Device sets AnTuTu record 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 Bringing innovations to the region, implementing unique technologies: Regional manager of Visa shares their goals 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 Independent developers release horror game 'Don't Scream' on Steam's early access 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 What new devices does Apple plan to unveil at October 31 event? Lisa Kudrow thinks Matthew Perry may have drowned 'after taking something that did not mix with warm water' 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 Armenian News- NEWS.am has learned that the newly appointed ambassador of Canada to Armenia, Andrew Turner, arrived in Yerevan Wednesday, although it was officially announced that his visit is scheduled for next month. According to our source, before the official opening ceremony of the Canadian embassy in Armenia, which will most likely take place in October, Turner has started closed meetings with the political circles in Armenia. Andrew Turner will be Canada's first resident ambassador to Armenia. Until now, there was solely a Canadian consulate in Yerevan, and Armenian citizens had to apply to the Canadian embassy in Moscow to get Canadian visas. On June 29, 2022, Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly had announced the opening of Canada's embassy in Armenia. According to her, the establishment of this diplomatic mission in Armenia will enable establishing strong ties between the two countries and increase Canada's assistance to the development of Armenias democracy. Meanwhile, the international media note that the appointment of the resident Canadian ambassador to Armenia takes place at the phase of the escalation of the military conflict with Azerbaijan. A source at The Canadian Press emphasized that this comes as the Liberals try to form closer ties with countries moving away from Russia's orbit. Prior to his aforesaid appointment, Ambassador Andrew Turner has served in Canadian diplomatic missions to Saudi Arabia (2004-2007), Syria (2011-2012), Afghanistan (2013-2015), Pakistan (2015-2017) and Iraq (2017-2019). And most recently, he served as deputy director and director for Eastern Europe and Eurasia. The Armenian government has petitioned to the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) regarding Azerbaijan arresting Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) former state minister Ruben Vardanyan at the Azerbaijani checkpoint on the Hakari bridge. The Armenian side has demanded to provide information about his status, detention conditions, and health condition. Yeghishe Kirakosyan, Armenia's representative on international legal affairs, told reporters at the National Assembly Thursday that the petition to request an individual interim temporary measure regarding the guarantee of the protection of Vardanyan's rights was sent to the ECtHR Wednesday. "They demanded from the court to guarantee Mr. Vardanyan's rights: right to life, prohibition of torture, inhuman, cruel treatment. We hope that the court will respond quickly. In any case, we are in contact with his relatives, too; and if we receive a response, we will convey [it] to them," Kirakosyan said. When asked whether Armenia is ready to address this matter to other courts, Kirakosyan said: "I will not say where we are going to petition; you will definitely know when we petition. We have two main international instances; one is the ECtHR, the otherthe International Court of Justice." And regarding Azerbaijan's "blacklist" and whether it is possible to prevent the arrests of the persons on that list, Yeghishe Kirakosyan said: "There are publications with the names of different people, and we see there the names of the people who are in the risk zone, or we can assume which group of people it can be about. In any case, we will be consistent in that regard, too. I don't picture how the prevention will be possible to do. But I believe in this case we should act post facto. There are certain measure that you will soon learn about. We will try to use those possible legal measures in order to work towards prevention." Former Minister of State of Artsakh, Ruben Vardanyan, was arrested Wednesday by Azerbaijan on his way from Artsakh to Armenia. He has already been imprisoned for four months in Azerbaijan and charged with "financing terrorism." I am extremely disappointed with the position of the US government, which for three years kept silent while the Armenian people were killed and subjected to aggression. The publisher and editor of The California Courier newspaper Harut Sassounian told NEWS.am. In addition, over the past nine months, when the Lachin corridor was under blockade, the United States did nothing except make statements. And now, when Artsakh is lost, the Administrator of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) Samantha Power comes to Armenia and shamelessly says that the United States will allocate $11.5 million. This is a very small amount, given the scale of the disaster, Sassounian said. According to his assessment, the United States should have allocated at least $1 billion so that everyone could get some help. We are tired of hearing beautiful words from everyone. Biden also wrote a beautiful letter, but for three years, he also did not say a word about Artsakh. Not only do they not help us, but at every opportunity, they support Azerbaijan and Turkey, inspiring them to take new anti-Armenian steps. I have defended Biden all my life, but now the entire Armenian community in the United States is disappointed in him. I am sure that Biden will not receive as many Armenian votes as last time, he added. At the same time, Sassounian believes that the candidacy of Bidens opponent, Trump, is even worse for Armenian interests. So the choice is between bad and worse, said the editor of The California Courier. Our faction is heading for fresh elections of the Yerevan Council of Elders, Hayk Marutyan, the former mayor of Yerevan, candidate for mayor from the National Progress party, has said in a Facebook livestream. "And to do that, all we have to do is not to be present at the first meeting of the Council of Elders, which will be held on October 10. We announce that we will not be present at the session, so that the session fails, the quorum is not secured and we hold new elections of the Council of Elders," he said. He said that he learned from the media about the statement of the Mother Armenia bloc that said they would not attend the session of the Council of Elders in order not to secure a quorum and pave the way to fresh elections. "Here only the position of the Public Voice party remains. If this party, if one person goes and attends the session, and he may not vote for anyone, he may abstain, etc., then the session will take place and the official candidate will be elected. If Public Voice does not attend the session, the session will not take place and the authorities will not reproduce themselves in the municipality. These are the two options that the Public Voice party has, they will decide how to do it, and I will ask you, dear citizens of Yerevan, to carefully follow the actions of all parties, not what they say, but what they do," he said. The US stands for an international monitoring mission for Nagorno-Karabakh, the Head of the US State Departments press service Matthew Miller said at a briefing. So I would say a few things. Number one, as you noted, Samantha Power, the USAID administrator, and Acting Assistant Secretary Yuri Kim are in Azerbaijan today, where they stressed a number of things, the same things that the Secretary stressed in his conversation with President Aliyev yesterday and that I reiterated at the podium, which is that, number one, we want to see the ceasefire maintained; number two, we want to see humanitarian needs addressed; that means keeping the Lachin corridor open, it means ensuring that humanitarian supplies can come in, and that it means an international monitoring mission to ensure that humanitarian needs are addressed, he said. According to him, the United States is working to implement these proposals with foreign allies and partners. And I will say that we did welcome the comments by the Government of Azerbaijan just a little while ago before I came out to this podium, that they would welcome such an international monitoring mission. Thats something that the Secretary had directly pushed the president for, and were glad to see his having agreed to it, and we will work with our allies and partners in the coming days to flesh out exactly what that mission will look like. But then ultimately what we do want to see is a return to the negotiating table, where they can ultimately reach a dignified, lasting peace, he said. Publisher Malcolm Forbes characterized diversity as the art of thinking independently together. However you define it, one thing is beyond dispute: diversity is a key source of Emorys strength and central to its core values. The first week of October, which is National Diversity Week, will find the university celebrating that strength with a host of activities to deepen our ties to one another and to highlight the range of identities including ability, ethnicity, gender, race, religion, gender identity and sexual orientation we bring with us each day to carrying out Emorys mission to create, preserve, teach and apply knowledge in the service of humanity. The theme for this years Diversity Week is A Commitment to One Emory: Accountability in the Face of Change. Carol Henderson, vice provost for diversity and inclusion, chief diversity officer and adviser to the president. So much wonderful work is being done at Emory to create a sense of belonging and flourishing for students, faculty and staff. A focus on this commemorative week elevates that work, connects communities across identities and demonstrates a common humanity that we celebrate. As the following schedule indicates, there is no shortage of ways to be part of this special week. As Henderson notes, With longstanding activities and initiatives across the enterprise, as well as signature events our office has created in collaboration with key campus partners, Diversity Week places Emory in a national conversation with other institutions around the country who understand the importance of this work to the educational mission of higher education. Monday, Oct. 2 Keynote Address: Dissent from Hopelessness: Taking a Stand from Where You Sit 121:30 p.m., R. Randall Rollins Building, Margaret Rollins Room Sponsored by the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Open to all; register here. It will stand as a welcome reminder in Diversity Week and one that keynote speaker Traevena Byrd is happy to provide namely, that to effect change, we should not hesitate to lead from our perch. In a talk titled Dissent from Hopelessness: Taking a Stand from Where You Sit, Byrd takes her inspiration from former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, who noted: I wish I could say that racism and prejudice were only distant memories. We must dissent from the indifference. . . . We must dissent from the fear, the hatred and the mistrust. . . . We must dissent because America can do better, because America has no choice but to do better. Byrd will note that higher education is uniquely positioned to engage subjects such as diversity and equity. These core principles are, she says, the bread and butter of higher education, topics in which administration, faculty, staff and students are deeply invested. She is vice president, general counsel and board secretary at American University in Washington, D.C. Earlier roles in her career included Title IX coordinator, EEO investigator and director of the Commission on the Status of African Americans for the state of Iowa. She is a frequent presenter on higher education legal issues, notably on the subject of free speech and student protest. Chill with the Center for Women: Candle Making 1-2 p.m., Cox Hall, Center for Women, 3rd Floor Sponsored by Center for Women . For graduate and undergraduate students. No registration needed. Crafting and camaraderie come together in perfect harmony at this event. Come experience an afternoon of creativity, connection and relaxation. Guided Meditation and Community 6-7 p.m., Emory Interfaith Center Sponsored by the Emory Buddhist Club . Open to all; register here. Hosted every Monday, the event features a monastic from the Atlanta area leading a guided meditation, Dharma talk, discussion and Q&A. Snacks after the session will afford members and attendees a chance to get to know each other. Bollywood Zumba 8-9 p.m., Woodruff PE Center, 4th-Floor Studio Sponsored by Emory Recreation and Wellness . Open to all; register here. Its the Zumba you know and love, but with a twist: Bollywood Zumba utilizes traditional Bollywood music and dance movements within a familiar format. Tuesday, Oct. 3 Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation Workshop 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Goizueta Business School, East Wing, Room 500 Sponsored by the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. The event is open to all; register here. Sharon Stroye, Emorys inaugural director of truth, racial healing and transformation (THRT), will lead this workshop. In 2016, TRHT emerged as an approach to racial-equity work that connects healing with systemic transformation. In Stroyes words, it creates places and spaces, through a methodological framework and process, where all people are welcome and healing can take place. SCOTUS Impact on Higher Education, Health Care and Beyond 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Room 110 Sponsored by the School of Nursing. Open to all; register here. Lunch is included. A presentation on the Supreme Court by Sherard Robbins, a constitutional scholar and the founder and CEO of Visceral Change. The courts decisions have wide-ranging implications for our lives, but most of us know little beyond the headlines. This session will analyze some of the latest rulings including women's reproductive rights, LGBTQ protections and affirmative action. Learn how cases are chosen and the real-life impact of the court's rulings. Diversity Winners Circle 10:30-11:30 a.m., Room 1.432, 1599 Building Sponsored by Emory Human Resources Learning and Organizational Development. Limited to 25 participants; register here. Diversity Winners Circle is an interactive game that navigates participants through DEI concepts such as diversity, culture, communication, privilege and engagement. Sustainable Food Fair 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Asbury Walk Sponsored by Office of Sustainability Initiatives and the Emory Sustainable Food Fair Team Open to all. No registration required. The Sustainable Food Fair fosters greater awareness of sustainability issues in food and expands knowledge of the pros and cons of different production systems, including issues of environmental, social and cultural impact; diversity; and taste and nutrition/health issues among the Emory community. There will be locally farmed food and vendors, live music and performances, and interactive educational tables on topics such as fair trade, local produce and modern diets. Association of Black Public Health Students Family Reunion 5-8:30 p.m., Rollins Courtyard Sponsored by Association of Black Public Health Students. Open to Rollins School of Public Health Students; register here. The Association of Black Public Health Students welcomes back the Rollins community for a family reunion. Enjoy food, music and activities as we celebrate the start of the school year. Empowerment through Self-Defense 7-9 p.m., Goizueta Business School, West Wing, Room 525 Sponsored by Goizueta Women in Business Club. Open to women; register here. An opportunity to learn essential self-defense techniques and strategies with the globally recognized self-defense training organization SASS GO. This event, tailored to womens needs and concerns, will equip participants with the knowledge and skills to confidently navigate potential safety challenges and enhance their personal security. Cafecito with La Alianza Latinx 12-1 p.m., R. Randall Rollins Building, Room N101 Sponsored by La Alianza Latinx. Open to students; register here. Over cafecito and pan dulce, discuss tips related to your educational journey and look at academic timelines. Emory Black Student Union Kickback: Shuffle, Step, Slide 4-6 p.m., Alumni Memorial University Center, Emory Black Student Union, Room 106 Sponsored by Emory Black Student Union. Open to all; no registration needed. Showcase your dance moves as you learn popular and classic line dances that have played a significant role in our communitys history. Join us for an afternoon of music, dance and learning as we come together to embrace the soulful beats and cultural significance of line dancing. Bee Yourself Button Making 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Lobby, Robert W. Woodruff Library Sponsored by Emory Libraries. Open to all; no registration needed. Express who you are by making your own button. All supplies provided. You Are Not Alone 12-1 p.m., virtual Sponsored by the Emory Black Employee Network. Open to employees; register here. Join the Emory Black Employee Network for a conversation about employee resources available through the Institutional Equity and Compliance office. This will be a virtual, nonrecorded event open to all employees. Wednesday, Oct. 4 Celebration of the Oxford College Librarys Creative Justice Exhibit Oxford College Library, 1st Floor, Ran Elizer Exhibit Space Sponsored by Oxford College Library. Open to all; no registration required. Members of the Arts and Social Justice Fellows Program will be at the Oxford College Library to discuss the program and celebrate the Oxford Librarys new Creative Justice exhibit. Oxford faculty who have participated in the program also will be on hand to answer questions. A light hors doeuvres reception will follow. Sukkot Pickling Workshop 12-2 p.m., Dobbs Common Table Patio Co-sponsored by the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life and Tam Institute for Jewish Studies Open to all; register here. Join Rabbi Jordan, Emorys Jewish chaplain, for a fermentation workshop. We are currently in the midst of the holiday of Sukkot, a time connected to agricultural cycles and the harvest season. In the ancient world (and today), the abundance of produce is preserved through pickling. Stop by for a quick tutorial on making pickles through lactofermentation and leave with your own small jar of kosher dills. No prior pickling experience required. Thursday, Oct. 5 Rainbow Thumb Queer Chat 6 p.m., Oxford College Mural Room Sponsored by the Oxford College Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and OxPride. Open to students; register here. Celebrate LGBTQ History Month this October with this meet-and-greet, de-stressor event, where each attendee will receive a small desk plant with instructions on how to take care of it. There will also be a roundtable discussion about LGBTQ awareness education. Buddhist Meditation 6:00 p.m., Cannon Chapel Sanctuary Sponsored by the Sponsored by the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life Open to all. Contact: Emory Buddhist Chaplain Ven. Priya Rakkhit Sraman Join the Emory Buddhist community in guided meditation and discussion. Come to meditate, make friends and learn about Buddhist life at Emory. Centro Latinx and Escritores ATL Open Mic 6:30 p.m., Cox Hall, Centro Latinx, 3rd Floor Sponsored by Centro Latinx and Escritores ATL. Open to all; no registration needed. This will be an evening of poetry, food and community celebrating the voices of trans and queer Latinx writers. Friday, Oct. 6 Social Movements and the Politics of Law 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Emory School of Law, Emory Center for Civil Rights and Social Justice Sponsored by Emory Law. Open to all; register here. This symposium examines the possibility of creating social change by merging legal and political advocacy with social-movement activity. Speakers will reflect on the life of Urvashi Vaid, who advanced social justice using a multidimensional lens that exposed the connections between inequity based on race, sexual orientation, gender identity, poverty, immigrant status and nationality, and disability. Presenters also will offer recommendations for contemporary social-justice advocacy in a climate of stiff political resistance. Rosa Tarbutton Sumter 89C had been thinking about how she could give back to Emorys Art History Department. President Gregory L. Fenvess Faculty Eminence Initiative, with its 2:1 match, was a catalyst that inspired me to follow through on something Id wanted to do for a long time. Sumter and her husband, Neal, established the Rosa Tarbutton Sumter Professorship in Art History. I stumbled upon art history as a student, and I fell in love with it, she recalls. It became my major and a big part of my life. Art remains a passion for Sumter, who enjoyed a long career at Norfolk Southern and currently serves on Emorys Board of Trustees. Im grateful to Emory and the Art History Department for the wonderful education and for the incredible professors who taught me, she says. The skills you learn in a liberal arts education equip you for life and for any career you choose to pursue. From the arts to cancer research, professorships enable Emory to recruit and retain faculty poised to improve the world through their fields of expertise. Sylvia Looney Dick chairs The Martha and Wilton Looney Foundation, which has created the Looney Family Professorship in Cancer Research. Our family believes in Winship Cancer Institute at Emory University, and we want the doctors and researchers who work there to have as much support as possible, she says. While the familys immediate concern is breast cancer research, we have multiple friends with several different forms of cancer, she says. Our hope is that whatever insight is gained through this professorship will be effective across the board. Along with her husband, Bruce Dick, she has also made several gifts to the Carlyle Fraser Heart Center. The Wilton D. Looney Carlyle Fraser Heart Center Medical Directorship at Emory University Hospital Midtown was instituted in 2018 to honor her father, Wilton D. Looney also a longstanding Emory benefactor. She hopes that others might be led to support similar professorships. This matching gift opportunity provides a chance for more people to use their financial resources to bolster research and perhaps also to motivate doctors and researchers by illustrating our belief in their work, she says. For our family, its an honor to play a part in the fight against cancer. Fenves established the $25 million Faculty Eminence Initiative as a matching grant to encourage the creation of more endowed professorships at Emory. The 2:1 match applies when a donor commits at least $1 million (with $500,000 in matching funds) to endow a professorship or $2 million (with $1 million from the match) for a distinguished professorship. Since it was launched in late March, the initiative has resulted in 10 new professorships, with seven more in the pipeline. Through 2O36, Emorys campaign to transform the future, generous donors have funded 66 professorships already far surpassing the 41 that resulted from Emorys previous campaign. One of our greatest areas of need is more endowed faculty positions, Fenves says. These endowed professorships help Emory recruit world-class faculty while empowering us to support the outstanding faculty members who are already thriving at Emory. Our faculty will shape the future of Emory as researchers, scholars, and teachers and by extension, this initiative will help ensure that Emory continues to rise as one of the finest universities in the nation. Cindy Sanborn 87C and Beth Ann Andrews 87C, both retired from CSX Corporation, have long supported the university through service and philanthropy, taking advantage of their employers matching gift program to extend their giving even further. Sanborn, who currently serves on the Emory Board of Trustees, views the Faculty Eminence Initiative as another opportunity to invest in Emory. The 2:1 match allowed us to create a distinguished professorship, she says. Wed already funded two scholarships, and we understand how important faculty are to a university, so this just made sense. The Marie B. and Richard D. Sanborn Distinguished Professorship in Computer Science is in honor of Sanborns parents. They chose computer science because both have degrees in mathematics and computer science, Sanborn explains. We also support the universitys efforts to incorporate artificial intelligence into the humanities, which allows students to learn about computers and AI regardless of their major. Ravi V. Bellamkonda, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, spearheads Emorys AI.Humanity, Arts and Humanistic Inquiry and Student Flourishing initiatives. Endowed professorships provide funding that can elevate departments and schools while enriching education, he says. Our faculty is the heart of our university, and with endowed positions we recognize their eminence and support their scholarship, Bellamkonda says. Our students also benefit both from having incredible scholars in the classroom and by having access to research opportunities in diverse fields of interest. Learn more about the Faculty Eminence Initiative, or contact Joshua R. Newton, senior vice president for Advancement and Alumni Engagement, for more information about creating an endowed professorship. Six dead, 13 missing after flash flood in Guatemala Six dead, 13 missing after flash flood in Guatemala SIU hosts special events in recognition of LGBTQ+ History Month in October by Christi Mathis CARBONDALE, Ill. Southern Illinois University Carbondale will commemorate October as LGBTQ+ History Month with the theme of "History, Community, Resilience." A variety of special events and activities are planned, with most open to the campus community and public at no cost. "The 2023 theme is meant to highlight the resilience found within our shared history and community, said Juniper Oxford, coordinator of the LGBTQ Resource Center. It also serves to remind us of the strength we can draw from our community and our history; that we are not alone and that we have been around. The richness of LGBTQ+ history and culture cannot be understated, and we hope that is imparted upon those who attend our events, activities and opportunities in October and throughout this academic year." It all begins Oct. 2 The Saluki Rainbow Network will lead a Pride March from the front of the Communications Building to the kickoff ceremony beginning at 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 2. The kickoff event will follow at 5:30 p.m. in the Old Main Room of the Student Center. Paul Frazier, vice chancellor for anti-racism, diversity, equity and inclusion, will offer remarks. Wil Clark, chief information officer and president of the LGTBQ+ Faculty and Staff Council, will be the guest speaker. Oxford will provide an overview of some of the upcoming events happening throughout the month. The following day, everyone is invited to come get acquainted with Oxford during the Meet the Coordinator event, set for 1-2 p.m. Oct. 3 at the Student Services Building Rooms 150/160. Oxford will give a short introduction and presentation, and then visitors will mingle and enjoy refreshments. Queer Cinema Back for 2023 is the popular Queer Cinema. At 4 p.m. Oct. 10, 16, 23 and 30, in the John C. Guyon Auditorium a variety of queer movies will be shown at no charge. All are welcome to enjoy the shows, with popcorn, candy and giveaways included. The schedule includes: Oct. 10 Screaming Queens, a documentary highlighting a group of transgender women and drag queens who fought police harassment at Comptons Cafeteria in San Franciscos Tenderloin district in 1966. Oxford will host and lead a brief film discussion. Oct. 16 Rafiki, a Kenyan film screened at Cannes, it focuses on forbidden love, as homosexual romance was illegal in the country. The film will be hosted by Sean Maulding, a doctoral student in communication studies. Oct. 23 Saturday Church, a 2017 film about a shy Black man who struggles with gender identity issues, bullying and abuse but escapes into a fantasy world of dance and music. Its hosted by Darryl Clark, associate professor of musical theater dance. Oct. 30 Framing Agnes, a documentary based on the case files of a gender clinic and the legacy of a young trans women who participated in Harold Garfinkels gender health research at UCLA in the 1960s. Oxford will host. Informative happenings A variety of learning opportunities will take place throughout the month as well, including the Black N Queer Roundtable set for 5 p.m. Oct. 5 in the Ohio Room of the Student Center. The topic is Where Do We Go? Then Clare Killman, Carbondale City Council member, will speak at 5 p.m. Oct. 19 in the Student Center Auditorium. Killman, the first transgender person ever elected to a city council position in Illinois, will speak about the importance of civic engagement. The presentation is free and open to the public. Refreshments will follow in the International Lounge. Family Day, Coming Out Social, more The LGBTQ+ History Month schedule is packed with activities, including the Rainbow Family Day on Oct. 8 at Bandys Pumpkin Patch in Johnston City, complete with hayrides, caramel apples, a play barn, apple cider and of course pumpkins and more for the entire family from 3 to 7:30 p.m. Its a pay-your-own-way event. A Coming Out Social is set for noon to 2 p.m. Oct. 11 at the Student Services Building Pavilion complete with crafts, games, music and food. All LGBTQ+ students, staff, faculty, allies and friends are welcome. The Transition Your Closet event from 1-3 p.m. Oct. 9 at Student Services Building Rooms 150/160 gives LGBTQ+ students the opportunity to obtain casual or business wear clothing to change their gender presentation in style. The event also features free walk-in resume checks along with career readiness information for those who will soon be entering the workforce. Learn more Various other activities are planned, including panel discussions, soccer matches, transitions groups, a spooky study night, a furry Halloween dance and more. Find additional information, including the complete schedule of events, on the website for the LGBTQ Resource Center, which is a unit of the Student Multicultural Resource Center. Sponsors include the LGBTQ Resource Center; the Student Multicultural Resource Center; the Office of Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; the LGBTQ+ Faculty and Staff Council; the Saluki Rainbow Network; the Career Development Center; the Intersectionality Project; the Black Resource Center; the Rainbow Cafe and the Carbondale Park District. PRNewswire San Francisco [US]/ Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], September 28:Robosoft Technologies Private Limited with its affiliate Robosoft Technologies Inc., today announced the acquisition of the analytics consulting practice of Cartesian Consulting Pvt. Ltd., with headquarters in Mumbai, India and also its affiliate company, Cartesian DataSciences LLC, located in Dallas, Texas. Cartesian Consulting was founded in 2009 by Sandeep Mittal and has done analytics projects for more than 100 clients located in 16 countries around the world. Cartesian DataSciences was launched in 2017 by its Americas Director, Jim Griffin, who will be coming onboard to Robosoft Technologies Inc as Sales Director for the global analytics practice. Griffin is also a faculty member at the University of Texas, McCombs School of Business, graduate analytics program. With this acquisition, Cartesian Consulting Pvt. Ltd. will focus on development and marketing efforts for SOLUS AI, a SaaS solution which acts as a System of Intelligence for Hyper Personalization. The pivot to a SaaS product business from an Analytics Consulting business is something that Cartesian had undertaken over the last 3 years. SOLUS AI has been in market and has seen fantastic acceptance with over 60 implementations as of date. Robosoft Technologies Inc Chairman and CEO, Ravi Bommireddipalli, remarked: "Many of the technologies we have created already have embedded analytics and insight as part of their design, but the Cartesian acquisition helps to position us for our goal of break-out growth in the area of analytics." Cartesian Consulting CEO Sandeep Mittal stated: "Our pivot to SOLUS also meant we had to focus our management and engineering efforts full time in support of the product, so we were looking for a company to which we could entrust our rich analytics practice, our legacy. We found in Robosoft an ideal choice and are thrilled to place this valuable business in such good hands." Sandeep Mittal also announced that he will remain active in an advisory role for Robosoft. Headquartered in San Francisco, California, Robosoft Technologies, Inc. is the North American affiliate of Robosoft Technologies Pvt. Ltd., which is headquartered in Udupi, India. Robosoft Technologies is a digital-led business transformation partner for enterprises. Robosoft offers end-to-end solutions in Digital Consulting, Customer Experience Design, Platform Engineering & IT Modernization, Data Science and Analytics, Enterprise Applications Implementation and Cybersecurity. Their expertise includes Design Strategy, UI/UX services, Consumer & Enterprise Application Development, Application Modernization and Testing-as-a-Service to name a few. Robosoft is certified ISO 9001:2015 and ISO/IEC 27001:2013. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, TechnoPro is the parent company of Robosoft. TechnoPro is a global leader in digital technology, employing more than 20,000 engineers and researchers, who serve a client base of over 2,000 customers. Media contact: Lakshmipathy Bhatlakshmipathy.bhat@robosoftin.com Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2223010/Robosoft_Technologies_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) Following a turbulent start to the week, the stock market exhibited resilience as it kicked off Thursday's trading session on a positive note. Both the Sensex and Nifty indices began the day in the green, suggesting renewed optimism among investors. The Sensex, India's benchmark stock index, displayed its robust momentum by opening 106.92 points higher at 66,225.61. Similarly, the Nifty, another key index, maintained its upward trajectory as it commenced the day with a gain of 34.75 points, opening at 19,751.20. Among the Nifty-listed companies, the morning session observed 27 advancing firms, 23 declining, and none remained unchanged. Several notable companies set the tone for the day's trading activity. Larsen & Toubro (LT), an infrastructure and technology firm, demonstrated strength as it emerged as one of the top gainers during the morning session. Bharti Airtel, Axis Bank, Bajaj Auto, and ICICI Bank also commenced the day on a positive note, contributing to the overall optimism in the market. Conversely, Tech Mahindra, Asian Paints, Eicher Motors, Dr Reddy, and Grasim faced early morning challenges and opened as the top losers among the Nifty companies. One noteworthy aspect of the Indian stock market's performance is its apparent decoupling from international markets. While global markets have experienced turbulence, Indian indices have consistently demonstrated resilience and outperformed expectations. Currently, the Nifty index finds strong support at the 19,500 level, a key factor contributing to the optimism in the market. Option writers have displayed robust put writing, indicating confidence in the upward movement of the Nifty. If this trend persists, market analysts believe that the Nifty has the potential to maintain its upward trajectory and could potentially target 20,466 in the short term, with medium-term goals remaining within the 21,234 to 21,410 range. Varun Aggarwal, founder and managing director, Profit Idea, said, Indian markets are decoupled with International markets. Our indexes continue to outperform. Nifty is finding good support at 19500 levels and strong put writing by option writers. If this continues, nifty can continue its upward journey and can target 20466 in the short term and the medium-term target remains at 21234-21410. Several sectors continue to attract investor attention, including Information Technology (IT), Banks, Metal, and Petrochemical stocks, which are notably attractive. IT, Banks, Metal, and Petrochemical stocks remain attractive. The mid and small-cap ratio is quite favourable and investors can look to buy them on dips for potential gains. Large-cap stocks like Reliance, TCS, INFY, ITC, and HDFCBANK look good and risk-defined strategies can be formed. Outlook & bias remains positive, said Aggarwal. Furthermore, the favourable ratio between mid and small-cap stocks presents opportunities for investors looking to capitalize on potential gains. Overall, market sentiment and bias remain positive, reflecting renewed confidence among market participants. (ANI) PRNewswire New Delhi [India], September 28: We Also Make Policy is a candid account of the proceedings within India's finance ministry. Published by HarperCollins Hardback | Non-Fiction | Economy |520 pp | INR 799 Available wherever books are sold | Releasing on 1 October 2023 ABOUT THE BOOK Economic policy has a direct impact on how people live, eat, work, and spend. It governs every aspect of life, and finance secretaries are central to how economic policy is made and implemented. In this book, Subhash Chandra Garg, former economic affairs secretary and finance secretary, tells the inside story of how economic policy is made and unmade at the highest levels in the Government of India. We Also Make Policyis a fly-on-the-wall account of the proceedings within the finance ministry. The book talks candidly about controversial decisions from the first tenure of theNDA government, such as the politics of minimum support price to farmers, electoral bonds,recapitalizing of banks, monetizing national assets and the controversial resignation of RBI Governor Urjit Patel, among others. As the author of three Union Budgets, Garg also talks about what it takes to put the Budget together: the pressures, processes, calculations and, above all, the politics. Subhash Chandra Garg says,"The making of economic policy in India tends to be opaque and non-consultative.We Also Make Policydiscloses what went on behind the scenes in several major policy decisions that I was involved in during my time in the finance ministry such as electoral bonds, printing ofRs 2000 notes, the monetisation of six airports, the takeover of ILFS, the debate around minimum support price (MSP) for crops, the 'raiding' of RBI reserves, and so on. I have written this book with the conviction that the people of India deserve to know the truth behind these policy decisions that were, at times, controversial." Swati Chopra, Associate Publisher, HarperCollins, says, "With this book, Subhash Chandra Garg lets us into the highest echelons of government, as it were, and gives us a glimpse into how the country's crucial financial issues are handled and how policies that govern India's economic life are made. Since these details are usually not available in the public domain,We Also Make Policymakes for a unique, and informative read for anyone with an interest in India's economy and its politics." ABOUT THE AUTHOR As a member of the Indian Administrative Service for more than thirty-six years,Subhash Chandra Gargwas deeply involved in public administration, execution of development programmes, managing state-level institutions, making Budgets both at State and Central government levels, and policymaking. He crafted many budgets assecretary of Budget, as finance secretary of the government of Rajasthan, as secretary of economic affairs and as finance secretary to the Government of India. He served as secretary of economic affairs for a little over two years, from 2017 to 2019. After taking voluntary retirement from the IAS in October 2019, he now works as a policy observer, strategist, commentator and writer on important economic and financial policy issues with a focus on Indian economic and fiscal affairs and policy. Garg's first book, The $ 10 Trillion Dream: The State of Indian Economy and The Policy Reforms Agenda, was published in February 2022. His second book, Subhash Chandra Garg's Explanation and Commentary on Budget 202223, includes the results and outcome of Budget 202122 and the implementation of Budget 202223 and develops a national standard for analysing and commenting on Central government Budgets. He writes opinion editorials and columns for print and online news magazines, and speaks to think-tanks, educational institutions and investors regularly. He appears on television channels for discussions on the economy, Budget and other public-policy matters as well. 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 Next Award, 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. 30 YEARS OF PUBLISHING IN INDIA At HarperCollins, we believe in telling the best stories and in finding the widest possible readership for our books in every format possible. We started publishing 30 years ago in India, and a great deal has changed since then, but what has remained constant is the passion with which our authors write their books, the love with which readers receive them, and the sheer joy and excitement that we as publishers feel in being a part of the publishing process. Over the years, we've had the pleasure of publishing some of the finest writing from the subcontinent and from around the world, and some of the biggest bestsellers in Indian publishing history. Our books and authors have won a phenomenal range of awards, and we ourselves have been named Publisher of the Year several times. But nothing has meant more to us than the fact that millions of people read the books we publish, and somewhere, a book of ours might be making a difference to someone. As we step into our fourth decade, we go back to that one word a word which has been a driving force for us all these years:Read. Photo:https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2221285/We_Also_Make_Policy.jpg Logo: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) NewsVoir New Delhi [India], September 28: Modi Naturals Ltd. (MNL), through its wholly owned subsidiary Modi Biotech Private Limited (MBPL), is pleased to announce the inauguration of its state-of-the-art ethanol distillery in Raipur, Chhattisgarh Today. The prestigious inauguration ceremony was graced by the presence of Anil Modi, CMD of the company, Vijay Gupta, MD Beekay Engineering and Sudhir Halwasiya, Alok Garg, Aditi Modi, Akshay Modi, Directors of MNL. The Ethanol Plant, an initiative of MNLs subsidiary, MBPL, represents a significant stride towards a sustainable future. With a state-of-the-art distillery boasting a robust production capacity of 210 KLD (thousand litres per day) and a 5.5 MW cogeneration power plant, this facility is poised to profoundly impact the biofuel landscape. The facility is planned to operate at 130 KLD in the first phase, with a capex of Rs. 150 cr. with debt of Rs. 100 cr. Commenting on the commercialisation of the plant, Akshay Modi, Managing Director of Modi Naturals Ltd., said, The commissioning of our Ethanol Plant represents an important moment in India's drive for sustainable biofuels. Modi Biotech is committed to influencing the nation's energy future. Biofuel is certainly the key to India's automotive sector. Our Ethanol facility demonstrates our commitment to sustainability, energy security, environmental responsibility, and increasing farm income simultaneously at the same time. Furthermore, it has enabled us to diversify our company portfolios and build a green-field unit with significant growth potential. The Central Government provided MBPL in-principle approval for ethanol production, emphasising its connection with the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) programme, which is led by India's visionary Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. In tandem, an MOU with the Chhattisgarh government strengthens the commitment to this transformative project. Moreover, the industry tender period operates from November to October. With the government's constant backing and programmes like the EBP programme, the Indian biofuel sector is set for a rapid expansion. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), India will overtake the United States and Brazil as the world's third-largest ethanol market by 2026. This dramatic growth highlights the critical significance of initiatives like MBPL's Ethanol Plant in ensuring India's energy security, lowering carbon emissions, and establishing a sustainable future. Modi Biotech Private Limited (MBPL) and its parent firm, Modi Naturals Ltd., have a strong legacy of managing numerous enterprises and projects spanning four decades. To ensure the BioTech Plant's smooth construction and commissioning, MBPL worked with industry specialists such as consultants, plant suppliers, and an experienced in-house staff. Modi Naturals Ltd. is one of Indias leading consumer goods companies operating in the wellness and foods category. MNL has created niche, premium and differentiated brands in highly competitive edible oils and healthy foods categories. During FY 2022-23, MNL recorded a turnover of INR 418 crores through its products sold in India through our portfolio of brands such as Oleev, Oleev Kitchen and PIPO foods. Our strong focus on quality, innovation, product differentiation and brand building has helped us stand out in a cluttered retail market, with Oleev becoming the No. 1 Goodness of Olive Oil'' brand in India, with a fully backward-integrated portfolio of products. Over the last decade, MNL has developed a pan-India distribution network across all channels of FMCG, including the upcoming Q-Commerce, serving our consumers through all modes of online and offline retail across the country. We are a very proud Indian company, manufacturing and marketing world-class food products in India. The company is poised to grow exponentially in the next few years with its three verticals namely a) consumer goods vertical, b) bulk edible oil and feeds vertical and c) ethanol manufacturing vertical. In line with the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) program, Modi Naturals Limited has diversified into ethanol manufacturing, with a state-of-the art greenfield Ethanol Plant established in the state of Chhattisgarh under its wholly owned subsidiary Modi Biotech Pvt. Ltd. Established in 1974 and headquartered in New Delhi, MNL is listed on the BSE. We operate 3 factories in India located at Pilibhit, Sonipat and Hyderabad with a fourth inaugurated in Chhattisgarh. The company has previously received awards for being the Largest Processor of Rice Bran in India for several years. Statements in this document relating to future status, events, or circumstances, including but not limited to statements about plans and objectives, the progress and results of research and development, potential project characteristics, project potential and target dates for project related issues are forward-looking statements based on estimates and the anticipated effects of future events on current and developing circumstances. Such statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties and are not necessarily predictive of future results. Actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. The company assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect actual results changed assumptions or other factors. (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) NewsVoir Pune (Maharashtra) [India], September 28: amberis thrilled to announce the launch of theamber app, a revolutionary platform designed to humanize and simplify the student housing experience. "Creating the amber app was a journey focused on understanding the unique needs of students. We've integrated features that not only simplify the search but also add a layer of personalization and security. We're proud to bring this vision to life," saidNikhil Gupta, VP Engineering, amber. The amber app is engineered to simplify the daunting task of finding student accommodation. Users can discover verified properties, compare options, and book their ideal student home through a user-friendly interface and sleek design. Compatible with Android and iOS devices, the app leverages cutting-edge technology to deliver a seamless experience. "In today's fast-paced world, students need a housing solution that's not only reliable but also easy to navigate. The amber app is our answer to that need. It's more than just an app; it's a comprehensive tool designed to empower students in their housing journey," saidfounder & CEO of amber, Saurabh Goel. What sets the amber app apart is its commitment to trust and choice. Unlike other applications in the market, it offers verified property listings and a Wishlist feature, allowing users to save and compare properties. This makes the amber app the go-to solution for students seeking reliable, personalized housing options. With just one tap away from discovering the best student housing, the app serves as your one-stop shop for app-exclusive perks like cashback, discounts, and special partner offers. In addition, it keeps you informed in real-time, ensuring you're always up-to-date with your bookings and important notifications. This feature provides an extra layer of convenience and peace of mind for students already in the midst of planning their student abroad journey. "We couldn't be more thrilled to unveil the amber app,"saidthe dedicated team at amber. "Countless hours have been invested in this initiative, and we are confident that it will revolutionize the way students find housing. We look forward to seeing students reap the benefits," saysMadhur Gujar, Co-founder & CBO at amber. The amber app is now available for download on theiOS App StoreandGoogle Play. amber is a leading global student accommodation platform that assists students in booking housing near universities worldwide. Utilizing innovative technology and an extensive network of trusted partners, amber is committed to making the search for student accommodation simple and secure. (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) GLOBAL PR CONNECT (GPRC) New Delhi [India], September 28: India, with its burgeoning population and increasing energy demands, faces a critical need for sustainable and eco-friendly energy sources. Biogas, in this pursuit, has emerged as a promising solution. Biogas, a renewable energy source produced from organic waste, has gained substantial traction in recent years due to its potential to alleviate energy poverty and reduce environmental degradation. ES Ranganathan, former Director at GAIL, emphasizes that in India's pursuit of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, the significance of biogas will be indispensable in attaining the government's ambitious goal. It is imperative to understand that India's biogas market is expected to grow from $1.47 billion in 2022 to $2.25 Billion in 2029 at a CAGR of 6.3% in the forecast period, 2022-2029. The rapid expansion strongly indicates that India's biogas industry offers a highly compelling opportunity, making a strong case for itself. The recent inclusion of Reliance Industries, Adani Group, and Indian Oil in setting up compressed biogas (CBG) plants marks a significant stride towards a sustainable and eco-friendly energy future. Several noteworthy biogas projects in India serve as exemplars of the potential of this technology. The Delhi Milk Scheme Biogas Plant is a prime example, where dairy waste was utilized to generate biogas, reducing both waste disposal problems and energy costs for the dairy, said ES Ranganathan. It showcases the successful large-scale implementation of biogas technology in urban areas, demonstrating its potential to address the dual challenges of waste management and energy supply, added Ranganathan. With a successful track record and positive case studies, biogas has emerged as a viable solution to address India's energy needs while mitigating environmental impacts. Technological Advancements Recent years have witnessed significant technological progress in biogas plant design and operations. The introduction of advanced anaerobic digesters, such as continuous stirred-tank reactors (CSTRs) and plug-flow digesters, has greatly improved biogas production efficiency. These modern digesters enhance the breakdown of organic matter, resulting in higher biogas yields per unit of feedstock. Additionally, the integration of pre-treatment techniques like mechanical sorting and enzymatic hydrolysis has accelerated the decomposition process, making biogas production more efficient and economically viable. Furthermore, the incorporation of smart monitoring and control systems allows for real-time optimization of biogas plant operations. This enables operators to adjust factors like temperature, pH levels, and retention times, ensuring optimal conditions for microorganisms responsible for biogas production. Policy Interventions and Financial Incentivisation Government policies and financial incentives have played a pivotal role in driving the adoption of biogas technology in India. Various state and central schemes provide subsidies, tax benefits, and grants to promote the establishment of biogas plants. Furthermore, the introduction of government schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, which aims to provide clean cooking fuel to rural households, further spurring the adoption of biogas technology. Finance Minister of India, Nirmala Sitharaman, in her budget speech for 2023-24, announced the setting up of 500 biogas plants across the country under the Gobardhan scheme. Of these, 75 plants were to be set up in urban areas, cited ES Ranganathan. Climate Change Mitigation The widespread adoption of biogas technology has significant implications for climate change mitigation. Biogas production helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by capturing and utilizing methane, a potent greenhouse gas, which would otherwise be released into the atmosphere during the decomposition of organic waste. This aligns with India's commitment to combat climate change as outlined in the Paris Agreement, mentioned ES Ranganathan. With the recent introduction of the Global Biofuel Alliance launched at the G20 Summit held in New Delhi, India could benefit considerably. As per the Indian Biogas Association (IBA), opportunities worth $500 Bn could be generated in the next three years. Out of which a whopping $200 Bn opportunities could be generated through biogas alone. In the case of India, the primary objective behind biofuel adoption is to diminish its reliance on importing crude oil from the Middle East and other regions. Biofuels offer a complete alternative to petroleum-based fuels in this regard. In a nutshell, the recent developments in biogas plants in India represent a notable step towards achieving sustainable and cleaner energy solutions. With increasing government support, technological advancements, and a growing awareness of the benefits of biogas, India is well-positioned to further harness the potential of this renewable energy source. As the country continues its transition towards a greener future, biogas technology is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping India's energy landscape. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by GLOBAL PR CONNECT (GPRC). ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) PRNewswire Jaipur (Rajasthan) [India], September 28: Amity University Rajasthan, a premier institute of higher education in India, is proud to announce that it has been granted accreditation by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) with an impressive score of 3.31 and the coveted A+ grade. This accreditation is a testament to the university's unwavering commitment to academic excellence, research, and innovation. The NAAC accreditation process is a rigorous and comprehensive assessment of an institution's overall quality and performance. Achieving an A+ grade underscores Amity University Rajasthan's dedication to providing best-in-class education and fostering an environment of continuous improvement. The accreditation process evaluates various aspects of an institution, including teaching and learning processes, infrastructure, research capabilities, faculty qualifications, student outcomes, innovation & research, placement, and much more. Amity University Rajasthan's success in achieving such a high score reflects its exceptional performance in these critical areas. Prof. (Dr.) Amit Jain, Hon'ble Vice-Chancellor, of Amity University Rajasthan, expressed immense pride and gratitude as the university has shown remarkable progress in the last 5 years to achieve this much-deserved A+ Grade, from NAAC. Prof. Jain stated "We are extremely glad to have received NAAC accreditation with an A+ grade. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to delivering high-quality education and upholding the highest standards of academic excellence. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the exceptional quality of our faculty, staff, students, teaching methodology, research labs, proactive industry integration, and societal connect as we strive for excellence in all we do." Amity University Rajasthan has been a frontrunner in providing a diverse range of programs across various disciplines, including engineering, management, law, liberal arts, and more. The university's state-of-the-art infrastructure, world-class faculty, and emphasis on research and innovation have contributed significantly to its outstanding performance in the accreditation process. The A+ grade and the notable score from NAAC boost the university's reputation and inspire confidence among students and parents seeking quality education. Amity University Rajasthan remains committed to its mission of nurturing talent, fostering creativity, and preparing students for a successful future. NAAC Accreditation signifies that the university stands among the best in the nation, delivering top-notch education, research, and holistic development opportunities to our students. About Amity University Rajasthan: Amity University, Rajasthan, is a clean green 152-acre picturesque campus amidst the oldest mountain ranges of the Aravali, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. courses across various disciplines. The university is a fully residential and hi-tech institution with air-conditioned Amphitheatre-style classrooms. The university has consistently been recognized and awarded by India Today, ASSOCHAM, Hindustan Times, Zee TV, etc. for its academics, placement, and industry interface. The university has recently been featured among the top universities in the world in THE IMPACT Rankings 2023. Logo:https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2188318/4226086/Amity_University_Rajasthan_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) As the 10-day festival came to an end on Thursday, various Ganesh mandals in Mumbai began processions to immerse the deity's statues amid the banging of drums and chanting of Ganpati Bappa Morya. In a magnificent procession, Mumbai's devotees bid farewell to their Lalbaugcha Raja while asking Him in prayers to return next year. Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with much pomp and zeal in several states across the country. Ganesh Chaturthi celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha. It is one of the most popular Hindu festivals. It is celebrated for 10 days and it is believed that during this time Lord Ganesha arrives on earth with his mother, Goddess Parvati, and showers blessings on the people. On Anant Chaturdashi, devotees wish Bappa goodbye in the hope that he will visit their houses the next year to bestow blessings. The Hindu lunar calendar's sixth month, Bhadrapada, or Ganesh Chaturthi, begins on the fourth day of that month. The ten-day festival ends on the fourteenth day of the month, which is referred to as Chaturdashi. Interestingly, the day set aside for worshipping Lord Vishnu falls on the day after Ganeshotsav, the festival honouring Lord Ganesh. The Lord Ganesh idols were carried out of pandals for their final journey into the Arabian Sea and other bodies of water as devotees gathered along the procession routes to witness the event. Music, dance, and sincere prayers were performed beside these idols, which were displayed in a variety of shapes and sizes. The history of theLalbaugcha Rajais quite famous as it is the popular Ganesh idol ofLalbaugcha RajaSarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, located atPutlabai Chawl, a place of worship founded in 1934.The Lalbaugcha Raja Ganapati idol has been taken care of by the Kambli family for over eight decades. Ganesh Chaturthi is a ten-day festival that starts on the fourth day of the Hindu lunisolar calendar month 'Bhadrapada' and this year the festival commenced on September 19. This auspicious ten-day festival starts with 'Chaturthi' and ends on 'Anantha Chaturdashi'. It is believed that Lord Ganesh arrives on Earth during the festival and after the 10 days of blessings he showers on his devotees, he returns to his parents Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati on 'Kailash Parvat'. The festive period is also known as 'Vinayak Chaturthi' or 'Vinayak Chavithi'. The festival celebrates Ganesha as the 'God of New Beginnings' and the 'Remover of Obstacles' as well as the god of wisdom and intelligence. It is celebrated with much fanfare in Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra with lakhs of devotees converging into mandals to seek blessing from Lord Ganesh. For the festivities, people bring Lord Ganesh idols to their homes, observe fasts, prepare mouth-watering delicacies, and visit pandals during the festival. (ANI) Police said that it has recovered weapons and ammunition from an illegal weapon factory in Madhya Pradesh's Dhar in the raids which were conducted at the site. Speaking to ANI, Dhar Superintendent of police Manoj Kumar Singh said, "Dhar police today busted a gang involved in inter-state illegal arms smuggling and arrested three people of this gang.149 country-made pistols, 2 pistols and 13 live cartridges worth Rs 36 lakh have been seized." He further stated that the gang was running was a network in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi and Haryana and the prime accused in the case has been identifed as Ishwar. "Prime accused Ishwar was wanted in 24 cases. We are probing his links on the locations he might have supplied weapons," he said. Further investigation is underway. (ANI) The Congress party's General Secretary, KC Venugopal on Wednesday targeted Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan over the recent incident of rape of a minor girl in the state, saying the CM must take accountability for the relentless rise in crimes against women under their watch. Venugopal further slammed the Shivraj Singh goverment saying that the state of women's safety in Madhya Pradesh is utterly shameful. Beyond shocked at the horrific news coming from Ujjain. The state of women's safety in MP is utterly shameful. What is the police doing? Why did the administration not help the girl for over 2 hours? When will the police arrest the culprit? The CM who calls himself 'Mama', and the MP Home Minister who has the time to comment on the clothes worn in Bollywood songs, must take accountability for the relentless rise in crimes against women under their watch, Venugopal said in a post on X. Earlier, Madhya Pradesh Police begun a probe after a minor girl was raped and lying in an unconscious state in a pool of her blood in Madhya Pradeshs Ujjain district. A case has been registered under Mahakal police station in the district against unknown people in which rape incident has come to light and it has been confirmed in a medical examination, said Sachin Sharma, Superintendent of Police (SP) Ujjain on Wednesday. The minor was found in an unconscious state in the Murlipura area under Mahakal police station limits in the district, according to police. Seeing her soaked in blood, locals informed police, which reached the spot and took the girl to the hospital where a medical examination confirmed she was raped. In this case, due to the critical condition of the girl, she was referred to Indore. A policeman also donated blood as she had lost a lot of blood, said Sachin Sharma, Superintendent of Police (SP, Ujjain). A SIT (Special Investigation Team) has been formed and an investigation is underway, the police official said. The SP also made an appeal to the public to inform the police if they have information about the incident. The girl did not give any specific details about where she is from, but through her language and dialect it seems likely she hails from Prayagraj, Sharma said. (ANI) West Bengal Leader of Opposition and BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari also joined the protest. While speaking to ANI during the protest rally, Suvendu targeted West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, saying, "These people are suffering, and their demands are right. Mamata Banerjee's government is not giving them jobs. So to support this demand, I am participating in the protest as the opposition leader of the Bengal legislative assembly, he said. The leader of the opposition further added, This protest will go on, and there will be a legal battle... The government has to accept this demand." Earlier, the West Bengal Leader of Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, on Tuesday targeted Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee over the dengue outbreak in the state by taking to his X account and saying the Home (Police) Minister of West Bengal is busy saving the Health Minister of West Bengal as the dengue menace in the state spirals out of control. Incidentally, both portfolios are held by CM Mamata Banerjee. (ANI) "Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has been given charge of security of CBI teams visiting various locations in Manipur for investigation purposes and collection of evidence," a senior official told ANI. On Wednesday, a CBI team led by Special Director Ajay Bhatnagar reached Imphal to investigate the alleged kidnapping and killing of two students days after they went missing. In the cases registered or transferred to the CBI, teams have to visit the scene of the crime, recreate scene, collect forensic evidence, and send it to Central Forensic Science Laboratory. "To ensure speedy investigation and keeping safety of CBI official on priority, CRPF personnel will accompany them during their visits in violence hit areas for investigation purposes," the official added. At present, CBI has registered 11 FIRs, including the viral video of two young tribal women paraded naked. The investigation in all the cases are underway. (ANI) Rajnath Singh performed an arti on the occasion and sought blessings from Lord Ganesha. Ganesh Chaturthi, a 10-day festival that starts on the fourth day of the Hindu lunisolar calendar month 'Bhadrapada', started on September 19 this year. This auspicious 10-day festival started with 'Chaturthi' and will end on 'Anantha Chaturdashi'. It is celebrated with much fanfare in Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra with lakhs of devotees converging into mandals to seek blessing from Lord Ganesh. For the festivities, people bring Lord Ganesh idols to their homes, observe fasts, prepare mouth-watering delicacies, and visit pandals during the festival. (ANI) The event was organized on Wednesday under the initiative of Tripura Urban Livelihood Mission. On this occasion, various beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Swanidhi Scheme and Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana National Urban Livelihood Mission were felicitated by the Chief Minister. Urban Development Department Secretary Abhishek Singh delivered the welcome address on the occasion. Prasad Rao Vadarapu, Director of Tripura Urban Livelihood Mission gave the vote of thanks. Additional Municipal Commissioner (AMC) Mayor Deepak Majumder, Urban Development Department Director Rajat Panth, AMC Mohammad Sajad P and State Level Bankers Committee Convener Bikash Das were present on the occasion among others. The Tripura Chief Minister also launched the e-Cabinet system at the Secretariat on Wednesday. The Chief Minister presided over the first Council of Ministers meeting, conducted entirely without paper. It is worth noting that Tripura now stands as the fourth state in India to implement the e-cabinet system, according to a press release by the Chief Minister's office. After Uttaranchal, Uttar Pradesh, and Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura became the fourth state to adopt the E-Cabinet system. Among the 28 states, Tripura now holds the fourth position. In Tripura, several departments have taken the initiative to implement the e-e-office ensuring seamless governance. The primary objective of E-Office and E-Cabinet is to alleviate the challenges posed by managing extensive paper records. Accountability is also enhanced. "This will be advantageous for the next generation. Sometimes, it was difficult to locate specific files, but now everything is accessible with just a click, and the document is right in front of you, Chief Minister Manik Saha explained. He also shared that approximately 4,250 individuals in 94 departments have received training, with some still pending. Furthermore, the Chief Minister felicitated the departments that have achieved 100 per cent e-Office integration at the Secretariat. During the program, Cabinet Ministers, Chief Secretary JK Sinha, Secretary PK Chakraborty, Director General of Police Amitabh Ranjan, and other concerned officials were present. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Lehar Singh Siroya on Wednesday urged the governments of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka to meet and steer the discussion on the ongoing Cauvery water-sharing dispute. "I feel this water issue (Cauvery River) is an emotional issue for everybody. Two governments must sit together earnestly without politics and then they can sort out the matter. I request all the parties of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka not to do politics now," the BJP MP said. "Both the governments should talk to each other with their expert committee members and officers," he added. On Wednesday the BJP Rajya Sabha MP was in Chennai in an attempt to meet Chief Minister MK Stalin on the issue. In a letter writtent to both Chief Ministers Lehar Singh urged the Chief Ministers to sit together and resolove the issue through dialogue. "We should at least break the old cycle of seeing the sharing of Cauvery Riover water as a regional conflict and a major dispute. This conflicting approach has been prevalenet for decase. Instead it is best to view it as a humanitarian crisis to be addressed maturely by two state governments" his letter stated. "I once again urge the two Chief ministers to meet at the earliest and steer the discussion" he added in the letter. Earlier on Wednesday, former CM BS Yediyurappa along with other leaders and workers of the BJP staged a sit-in against the Karnataka government over the Cauvery water-sharing issue near the Gandhi statue in Bengaluru. JDS leader HD Kumaraswamy also joined the protest. Farmers across Karnataka have been protesting since the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) ordered the state to release 3000 cusecs of water to its neighbouring state Tamil Nadu, up to October 15, 2023. The amount of water to be released was earlier 5000 cusecs. In its 87th meeting of CWRC held in New Delhi Karnataka and Tamil Nadu made their submissions before the committee. The submission made by Karnataka stated that the shortfall in cumulative inflows to the states four reservoirs up to September 25 was 53.04 per cent. 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) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid tribute to freedom fighter Bhagat Singh on his 116th birth anniversary, saying that he will forever be a symbol of India's relentless fight for justice and liberty. "Remembering Shaheed Bhagat Singh on his birth anniversary. His sacrifice and unwavering dedication to the cause of India's freedom continue to inspire generations. A beacon of courage, he will forever be a symbol of India's relentless fight for justice and liberty," the prime minister posted on X. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid tribute to the Indian revolutionary and said that Bhagat Singh's patriotism and his thoughts will continue to ignite the flame of national service for ages. "On one hand, Bhagat Singh ji worked to bring the foreign rule to its knees with his patriotism, while on the other hand, with his ideas, he worked to unite the divided India in the struggle for freedom. The wave of independence became more powerful in the whole of India with the supreme sacrifice of Bhagat Singh ji, who happily sacrificed for the freedom of the country. Bhagat Singh Ji's patriotism and his thoughts will continue to ignite the flame of national service for ages," Shah posted on X. Born on 27 September 1907, Bhagat Singh was a charismatic Indian socialist revolutionary who participated in the mistaken murder of a junior British police officer in what was to be retaliation for the death of an Indian nationalist. Bhagat Singh was born into a Punjabi Sikh family in the village of Banga in the Lyallpur district of the Punjab in what was then British India and is today Pakistan. He later took part in a largely symbolic bombing of the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi and a hunger strike in jail, which turned him into a household name in the Punjab region, and after his execution at age 23 into a martyr and folk hero in Northern India. (ANI) Raising demands for financial aid against the losses incurred during the floods, and Minimum Support Price (MSP) guarantee farmers in Punjab's Amritsar led by the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee held a three-day 'rail blockade' on Thursday. Sarwan Singh Pandher of Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, who was present at the protest said, "If anyone tries to be unfair with the farmers of Punjab, then farmers from Haryana will also join Punjab farmers. Farmers are united throughout the country." Pandher further said that at "Devi Dasspura thousands of farmers have gathered in their tractors and bikes to hold an agitation demanding compensation over losses considering the floods in north India which have affected the crops." "The agitation has been called by 18 unions in North India. Home Minister Amit Shah came to Amritsar and he promised to bring MSP guarantee law but the committee has not been formed yet. The cases that had been registered during the Delhi agitation have not been withdrawn," Pandher said. "The farmers who lost their lives, and their families have not got the compensation and jobs which was assured. The victims have not got justice in the Lakhimpur Kheri incident. We have demanded 50,000 crore as compensation for the floods. The drugs that are being supplied through drones are not being checked at the borders. The protest is against the central government," he added. Police official Balvir S Ghuman said that massive security has been deployed to deal with the situation. (ANI) One of the key highlights of Dhankar's visit will be his interaction with the students and faculty members of Nalanda University, according to a press release by theVice Presidents Secretariat. This institution is renowned for its academic excellence and rich historical significance. The Vice-President's engagement with the university community is expected to provide an opportunity for fruitful discussions and exchanges of ideas, read the statement. In addition to his visit to Nalanda University, the Vice-President's itinerary includes a stopover in Gaya. This visit to Bihar reflects the Vice-President's commitment to engaging with diverse segments of society and fostering dialogue, knowledge-sharing, and cooperation, the statement read. It is an occasion that showcases the importance of educational institutions like Nalanda University and underscores their role in shaping India's intellectual landscape, it said. Dhankar will be accompanied by his wife Dr Sudesh Dhankhar on his Bihar visit. (ANI) Union Minister for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal hit out at Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot for questioning of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar's recent visit to the state, saying whether the Vice President needs to take the Chief Minister's permission for coming to his state. "For the Vice President (Jagdeep Dhankhar), the CM (Ashok Gehlot) said, why is he coming now? So the Vice President will come after getting permission from him?" Meghwal said while speaking to reporters in Jaipur on Thursday. Ashok Gehlot has objected to Jagdeep Dhankhars frequent visits to the state ahead of the upcoming state Assembly elections in November. Speaking about Dhankar's visit, Meghwal said, "It was a central government program for groundnut farmers in Bikaner which he inaugurated. This will benefit our groundnut farmers here." "Earlier they had to go to Gujarat to get export quality seeds. Now they will be produced here. 2000 farmers participated in the program, and 15-20 thousand farmers are expected to join in the coming times. The Vice President came here for the welfare of farmers," Meghwal elaborated on the purpose of the Vice President's visit. Attacking Ashok Gehlot for engaging in 'politics' over the Vice President's visit, he said, "The Chief Minister is doing politics on this, this is not right." Meanwhile, Rajasthan Deputy Leader of Opposition Satish Poonia said on Thursday that when tall leaders come to the state it leads to confidence-building among the party cadres. "When big leaders come it leads to confidence in the cadres and the message reaches the masses. We will work hard and make the BJP win with a good majority," Poonia said, speaking to reporters on Union Minister Amit Shah and BJP national chief JP Nadda's recent visit to Rajasthan. Speaking on the message given by Amit Shah and JP Nadda during their recent visit to the state, Poonia said, "The message has been given by (them) to contest the elections strongly and win the elections. We will put all efforts and make BJP win with majority...'' On the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate list for the upcoming state assembly elections, the Deputy Leader of Opposition said, "The list (of candidates) will be prepared in Delhi." Speaking on the strategy to be adopted by his party to take on the Ashok Gehlot government, Poonia said, "There are many issues against the current government. On top of that there is Modijis charisma and his work, the work of the party organisation. The party symbol and image, Modiji's name and work are our greatest strength." Rajasthan will go to polls in November this year. The BJP is expected to take on the Congress in the desert state ahead of the crucial 2024 Lok Sabha elections. (ANI) The employees of State Bank of India (SBI) in Himachal Pradesh have contributed Rs 77,29,825 towards Aapda Rahat Kosh-2023 as part of their one-day salary. Chief General Manager SBI Vinod Jaiswal presented a cheque to Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu here on Thursday. Apart from this, the SBI has also provided an ambulance to the state government which will play a vital role in delivering swift medical aid during emergencies and disaster like situations. CM Sukhu commended the dedication of the SBI employees towards the welfare of the society and said that their philanthropic efforts exhibit their affection for the people of the state who have severely suffered due to the monsoon fury. "Contributions from various sections of the society reaffirm our belief that, as a society, we can overcome any challenge and extend support to those in need," he added. General Manager SBI Ajay Kumar Jha, Deputy General Manager SBI Davinder Sandhu and other senior officers of the SBI were also present at the occasion. Earlier on Wednesday, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed his gratitude towards the Assam government for donating Rs 10 crore towards 'Aapda Rahat Kosh', which aims to provide disaster relief and support to the people affected by the monsoon fury in the state, according to an official statement. "This amount will be helpful in providing relief to the suffering families," CM Sukhu said. The Chief Minister also appealed to the people and organisations to extend donations towards the Aapda Rahat Kosh so that the same can be utilized to get normalcy back on track in the disaster-hit state, the statement read. It is worth mentioning that Himachal Pradesh has witnessed a catastrophe this year with the monsoon causing massive infrastructural damage and claiming several lives. According to officials, the current monsoon season has claimed the lives of 400 individuals in rain-related incidents and caused damage to more than 13,000 houses. Incessant rains in Himachal Pradesh have led to multiple landslides and cloudbursts in several places. (ANI) Rahul Sharma, the priest in Madhya Pradesh's Ujjain who helped the minor rape survivor, on Thursday described the horrifying state in which he found her. Priest Rahul Sharma was the first to come to the girl's rescue after finding her in a half-naked and bleeding condition. The moment I saw the girl, who was half-naked and bleeding, I gave her a piece of cloth to cover herself. I inquired about many things, but I couldn't understand what she was saying. I also provided her with a pen and paper, asking her to write about herself. I even asked if she knew her parents' phone number and gave her my mobile to call them, but she couldn't assist me in this matter, Sharma said while speaking to ANI. He then asked the girl if she was hungry, and she shook her head, symbolically indicating her hunger. He provided her with whatever was available in his ashram, including tea, water, and some money. However, he couldn't bear to leave her in that condition. He promptly dialled the police helpline '100,' and within 20 minutes, the police arrived. He then handed the girl over to the police officials. "Today, she is safe," he said. He further said, It seemed she had travelled a long distance to reach here. The death sentence should be awarded to those found guilty. Meanwhile, Ujjain Police are questioning five people who came into contact with the minor girl, as stated by a police official on Thursday. According to Ujjain Superintendent of Police (SP) Sachin Sharma, the incident was reported under limits of Mahakaal police station on September 25. "As soon as we received the information, the girl was immediately taken for a medical examination. The girl was unable to tell about her place, so a counsellor was called to assist. The counsellor interacted with her and confirmed about her situation, SP Sharma said. On medical grounds, a case was registered, and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed for further investigation. The police launched a probe and collected all available technical evidence, based on which an auto driver was taken into custody. During questioning, some crucial facts came to light. Notably, a bloodstain was found in the backseat of the auto rickshaw. The auto driver confessed that he was with the girl at the time of the incident. Even after this, we continued our investigation, and we have managed to determine that the girl is from Satna, the SP said. "Almost all the evidence has been collected, and more details on the matter will be disclosed soon. Currently, five individuals who came in contact with the minor girl after the incident are being questioned," he added. (ANI) Former Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Kamal Nath on Thursday took a jibe at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) stating that the BJP in the state was heading towards zero in electoral mathematics. Nath wrote on X (formerly twitter), In Madhya Pradesh BJP, One fourth BJP is on the fringes, one fourth are poor and destitute, one fourth are morally losers and one fourth are victimised by Delhi (central leadership). Overall, the BJP in Madhya Pradesh is heading towards zero in electoral mathematics and politically, the former CM further wrote. Hitting back at Nath's post, BJP Spokesperson Rajneesh Agarwal said that the congress leadership and the Congress party had become a joke. Naths tweet tells us what is the state of mind of the Congress and Nath himself. The Congress is going through the worst phase across the country and the situation is such that they (Congress) are not able to accept this truth, Agarwal said. "Posting childish and absurd rhymes by the most senior Congress leader, shows that not only the Congress leadership but the entire Congress party has become a joke," the BJP leader added. Madhya Pradesh 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) Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday hit out at Shivraj Singh Chouhan-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government over Ujjain minor rape incident saying that they should state what steps have been taken for the security of women. The Samajwadi Party chief was speaking to reporters after having lunch with members of the tribal community at a village in Rajnagar Assembly Constituency here in Chhatarpur district. Yadav said that the incident that happened with the 12-year-old girl is very painful. "Such incidents taking place today are very unfortunate. The government should take strict action. This government should answer what did it for the security of women when they were in power for 20 years...What happened in Manipur? Women were stripped and paraded naked...Data says that Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh are the most unsafe for women...We demand strict action. It is the responsibility of the Government to see that it doesn't happen again," he said. The SP leader was speaking after a 12-year-old girl was raped in Ujjain. The girl was lying in an unconscious state in a pool of her blood in Madhya Pradeshs Ujjain district. She was later helped by Rahul Sharma, a priest. Meanwhile,UjjainPolice are questioning five people who came into contact with theminor girl, as stated by a police official on Thursday. According to Ujjain Superintendent of Police (SP) Sachin Sharma, the incident was reported under limits of Mahakaal police station on September 25. "As soon as we received the information, the girl was immediately taken for a medical examination. The girl was unable to tell about her place, so a counsellor was called to assist. The counsellor interacted with her and confirmed about her situation, SP Sharma said. On medical grounds, a case was registered, and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed for further investigation. The police launched a probe and collected all available technical evidence, based on which an auto driver was taken into custody. During questioning, some crucial facts came to light. Notably, a bloodstain was found in the backseat of the auto-rickshaw. The auto driver confessed that he was with the girl at the time of the incident. Even after this, we continued our investigation, and we have managed to determine that the girl is from Satna, the SP said. "Almost all the evidence has been collected, and more details on the matter will be disclosed soon. Currently, five individuals who came in contact with theminor girlafter the incident are being questioned," he added. (ANI) A group of the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV) activists on Thursday held a massive protest in Bengaluru against the state MPs and Siddaramaiah Government over the Cauvery River water issue. The KRV activists shouted slogans of "Cauvery Is Ours" as they protested against the release of the river water to Tamil Nadu. KRV Women's Wing President Ashwini Gowda said that this is the time for all Kannadigas to come together and demanded that the state-elected MPs should come up and speak up on the matter and stand for the people of Karnataka or resign from the post. "The issue has been raised for 150 years and I think this is the right time for all Kannadigas to come and have a better conclusion," she said in a statement. The KRV activist also demanded the Prime Minister's intervention in the matter. "The MPs of Karnataka do not want to raise this issue and they do not want to talk about this. There is not even a single MP talking about the issue of Cauvery, we want them to talk or we want them to resign," she said. Gowda also asserted that the organization is not supporting the Karnataka Bandh which is scheduled for Friday. Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramiah has said that the state will challenge the order of the Cauvery Water Management Authority in the Supreme Court. "The Cauvery Regulatory Committee (CWRC) has ordered to release of 3000 cusecs of water, I have already spoken to our advocates. They have suggested us to challenge this order in the Supreme Court. We will challenge it in the Supreme Court. We don't have water to release to Tamil Nadu" CM said. The CWRC had ordered Karnataka to ensure the release of 3000 cusecs of Cauvery water at Biligundlu starting from September 28 till October 15, 2023. The amount of water to be released was earlier 5000 cusecs. (ANI) The officials said that as soon as the information was received, the police swung into action. The accused left the drug and ran away from the spot. According to the Superintendent of Police, Kutch East, Sagar Bagmar, "Gujarat Police has seized 80 kg of drug from the coast, whose value in the international market is Rs 800 crore. As soon as the information was received, the police swung into action, the accused left the drug and ran away from the spot". "The case is being further investigated," SP Bagmar added. (ANI) As Punjab Police arrested Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira in connection with a 2015 drugs case, the president of the grand old party Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday said that the party does not tolerate injustice. Kharge, however, said that he doesn't have more details of the matter as he was in Bengaluru and came to poll-bound Chhattisgarh to attend a pre-planned event. "I am seeking details on it...If somebody does injustice, they don't stay for long. If they do injustice with us then we won't tolerate it," Kharge told reporters here. Congress MLA Khaira was arrested in connection with an old case registered in 2015 under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Earlier in 2015, there were two cases originated with the unearthing of a cross-border drug smuggling network in Fazilka,Punjab, leading to the seizure of heroin, gold biscuits, weapons, cartridges, and Pakistani SIM cards and the second of a fake passport racket being run in Delhi. As the trial went on, nine smugglers, including Gurdev Singh, Manjit Singh, Harbans Singh, and Subhash Chander, were sentenced in October 2017 in connection with the Fazilka case. As per the chargesheet, Khaira was closely associated with Gurdev Singh, the leader of the Fazilka drug smuggling racket, and is accused of having sheltered him. The primary accusations against Khaira include supporting an international gang of smugglers, having sheltered him and receiving financial benefits from drug traffickers, and enjoying the proceeds of crime. On February 16, 2023, a Supreme Court bench of Justices BR Gavai and Vikram Nath quashed the summoning order against Khaira in the drugs case. The arrest of Sukhpal Khaira is expected to further dent the relations of AAP and the Congress which have come together to form the INDIA alliance at the centre. The state unit of the Congress has opposed any tie-up or seat-sharing arrangement with the AAP inPunjab. (ANI) During his visit, he listened to their problems and also tried his hand at making furniture. Today I went to Asia's largest furniture market located in Kirti Nagar, Delhi, and met the carpenter brothers. Apart from being hard workers, they are also amazing artistsexperts at carving strength and beauty, Rahul Gandhi said in a post on X. https://x.com/RahulGandhi/status/1707345448443482133?s=20 "We talked a lot, got to know a little about their skills, and tried to learn a little," he added. The Congress party also shared pictures of Rahul Gandhis visit to the Kirti Nagar market on X. In the pictures, Rahul Gandhi can be seen trying his hands at some of the tools used by the carpenters. Bharat Jodo Yatra continues," the party said. Earlier, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi visited Anand Vihar ISBT on September 21 and spoke with the porters, who also wore their uniforms and carried a load. He listened to their grievances and demands. The Bharat Jodo Yatra, which started in Kanyakumari on September 7, 2022, and was led by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, concluded on January 30, 2023, in Srinagar after covering 3,970 km, 12 states, and two Union territories and lasting more than 130 days. In the first leg of the yatra, Gandhi had walked almost 4,000 km from Kanyakumari to Kashmir. The impact of Rahul Gandhis yatra was seen during the polls in Karnataka and Himachal Pradesh, as they recorded a sharp increase in strike rate and vote share. The Bharat Jodo Yatra, led by Rahul Gandhi and the Congress Party, travelled 511km in Karnataka over 22 days between Gundlupet constituency and Raichur Rural constituency. (ANI) Madhya Pradesh Mahila Congress leaders and workers on Thursday staged a protest in the state capital Bhopal, and demanded the resignation of State Home Minister Narottam Mishra over the Ujjain minor rape incident. Speaking to ANI, Madhya Pradesh Mahila Congress President Vibha Patel said, The way a 12-year-old girl was raped in Ujjain, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh was not taking cognizance in the matter and the police are hiding from its responsibility, it is clear that today the girl is not safe in Madhya Pradesh. Mahila Congress district president Santosh Kansana said, Congress has protested in view of increasing crime against women in the state. There are many such incidents that do not even come to light because they are not heard in the police station. Where is the Home Minister? The Home Minister should resign from his post. The Chief Minister should take cognizance. This is a government of dumb, deaf and robbers. There is no focus on women. These are the same women who will throw them away from power, she added. Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh Culture and Tourism Minister Usha Thakur said that the government and the administration were doing their work and the law of Madhya Pradesh was very strict. The government and the administration are doing their work. The law in Madhya Pradesh is so strict that no criminals can escape. There is a provision of the death penalty for rape here. The girl has been admitted to MTH Hospital in Indore. Her parents are being traced, efforts are being made to find out where the girl is from and where her parents are, She added. (ANI) According to the police, the drugs weighing six Kilogrmas are worth Rs 31 lakh in the international market. The accused were identified as Nadeem Mohammad Idris Shah and Akshay Lakshman Vaghmare. Meanwhile, a case has been registered against the two accused under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS) at Mumbai's Trambe police station. The police had received the information regarding the accused's arrival for drug-peddling activities in the Mankhurd area. Acting upon the information, the police set a trap and caught two people on the basis of suspicion. On inspection, drugs were recovered from their possession, the police said. A probe is underway. Further details are awaited. (ANI) Praising the efforts, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that he was indebted to them for their noble gesture. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to both the elderly and said that people from all walks of life are coming forward to contribute generously during these challenging times. CM further said that this contribution is a testament to the indomitable spirit of sharing and unity in the face of adversity. Notably, Himachal Pradesh has witnessed a catastrophe this year with the monsoon causing massive infrastructural damage and claiming several lives. Meanwhile, the employees of State Bank of India (SBI) in Himachal Pradesh have contributed Rs 77,29,825 towards Aapda Rahat Kosh-2023 as part of their one-day salary. Chief General Manager SBI Vinod Jaiswal presented a cheque to Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu here on Thursday. (ANI) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced on Thursday evening that the accused in the Ujjain minor rape incident has been arrested. The accused, identified as Bharat Soni, a resident of Ujjain district, will face the strict punishment for his actions, CM Chouhan told reporters. CM Chouhan further emphasized the commitment to ensuring that justice will be served in this case, and said, The accused will be given the strictest punishment. We will leave no stone unturned in getting him punished." He further stated that he was monitoring the situation closely every hour. "The victim is my daughter, the daughter of Madhya Pradesh. We will take care of her," CM Chouhan added. Meanwhile, Ujjain SP Sachin Sharma said, "There is an accused in the rape case. Another auto driver will also face a case for not informing the police about the incident. Since the victim did not disclose the crime scene initially, we were taking the accused for a recreation of the crime scene. During this, the accused tried to escape and got injured, along with one of our police officers. Both of them have been provided with medical assistance." Earlier, SP Sharma said that the incident was reported within the jurisdiction of the Mahakal police station on September 25. "As soon as we received the information, the girl was immediately taken for a medical examination. The girl was unable to tell about her place, so a counsellor was called to assist. The counsellor interacted with her and confirmed her situation, SP Sharma said. On medical grounds, a case was registered, and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed for further investigation. (ANI) The Indo-Pacific Chamber of Commerce was launched on Thursday from the platform Indo Pacific Economic Conclave 2023 organized by The Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry in association with the Ministry of External Affairs. The Conclave brought together Chambers of Commerce, leaders representing industry, diplomats and trade agency experts from 11 Indo-Pacific countries for the formation of the Indo-Pacific Chamber of Commerce. The conclave was organized in Kolkata considering the strategic position of the city, a press release from the Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry read. The Knowledge Partner of the Conclave, Intueri Global LLP has released a Position Paper on Indo-Pacific Economic Unity. After discussions with the delegates of 11 participating countries, a Charter was also released. Indo-Pacific is an important framework and we are already beginning to build the financial, physical, economic, and commercial architecture by concrete step-by-step measures," Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council Member Sanjeev Sanyal who was the Guest of Honour of the Conclave said in his address. Emphasizing that the Indo-Pacific Framework is a maritime concept, Sanyal said, "The maritime aspect of this is absolutely critical because without taking this into account much of the conversation is meaningless but once you go into a maritime framework then the way you look at the world changes. So once you begin to think in maritime terms you begin to have a far more flexible world view than when you have a landlocked view of the world. Speaking about the financial aspect of this framework, Sanyal said, "Instead of having rigid financing systems we need to have a globally fluid network of financing. Indo-Pacific region also has some serious finance hubs. Example: Singapore, Tokyo, Mumbai. Interlinking all of these is the key." "We intend to internationalize the Indian Rupee over the next decade or so for it to be much more widely used. India aspires to be like other hard currencies like Yen, Pound, Singapore Dollar, and Euro. We do expect that the Indian bonds will be more widely used. India is becoming a more prominent part of the international financial network," he added. Sanyal also mentioned that ESG (environmental, social and governance) is becoming more and more popular. However, Sanyal cautioned that the way norms are defined or the way these norms are monitored is still being worked out in the North Atlantic which is problematic. "Many of the global frameworks and ranks are still almost done exclusively by institutions that are in the North Atlantic. So, if there is to be Indo Pacific Framework and if ESG are to be a part of this at all, then this must be redefined otherwise it will not work, he said. Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry President and Managing Director and CEO of Exide Industries Ltd Subir Chakraborty said that the theme for the first day of the Indo-Pacific Economic Conclave is 'Collaboration and Cooperation towards Common Goals in the Indo-Pacific'. Welcoming guests from 11 nations in the Indo-Pacific, Chakraborty said, "These initiatives collectively aim to promote inclusive, sustainable, and resilient economic development across the Indo-Pacific region, fostering cooperation, mutual benefit, and peace and security. Through this Indo-Pacific Economic Conclave 2023 " the Bengal Chamber aims to foster economic cooperation, regional integration, and sustainable development across the Indo-Pacific region, the release said. As the global economic landscape continues to evolve, the Indo-Pacific region holds immense potential and significance, making it a focal point for international economic discussions. The Indo-Pacific Economic Conclave 2023 promises to be a milestone event in shaping the economic destiny of the Indo-Pacific region. It reflects the collective vision of nations in the region to create a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future for their people, the release said. (ANI) Senior officers of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) held a meeting at the Manipur Police Headquarters in Imphal to discuss the law and order situation in the state. "A meeting of senior officers of CAPF was held at PHQ, Imphal to discuss the present law and order situation in the state," the Manipur Police said in a post on 'X' on Thursday. The officers were apprised of the unfortunate injuries of students as well as security personnel, police said adding that the forces discussed using minimum force in dealing with the public, especially students. "Manipur Police appeals to the students to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in maintaining peace and bringing normalcy back early. Any miscreants taking advantage of the current situation will be firmly dealt by police. The joint security forces are making all efforts for expeditious investigation into all the cases," the police added in the post. Meanwhile in Imphal West and Imphal East district authorities have lifted the restrictions on the movement of people outside their residences from 5 am to 11 am on Friday. "Restriction of movement of general public outside their residences is hereby lifted for 29th September, 2023 from 5 am to 11 am for all areas of Imphal West District. This relaxation shall not include any gathering/sit-in-protest/rally etc, without obtaining approval through competent authority," the government order from the District Magistrate's Office of Imphal West district stated. "Restriction of movement of persons outside their respective residences imposed in Imphal East is hereby relaxed from 5 am to 11 am on 29th September for all areas of the district. This relaxation shall, however, not apply to any gathering/large scale movement of persons/sit-in-protests/rally etc which is unlawful in nature," the government order from the District Magistrate's Office of Imphal East district stated. Fresh protests erupted in Manipur on Monday after a video showing the bodies of two students who reportedly went missing in July went viral on social media. The government responded by re-imposing the suspension of internet services for five days as a precautionary measure and announced that all schools in the state would be closed till Friday. Earlier in the day, taking cognisance of reports about allegations of use of 'excess force' by security forces during the maintenance of law and order in the last few days in the Imphal area, Director General of Police Manipur Rajiv Singh on Thursday ordered to form a committee to look into the issues and asked it to submit a report at the earliest. "There have been various reports/allegations of the use of excess force by the Security forces during the maintenance of law and order situations in the last few days in the Imphal area. To verify such complaints/allegations, a committee is being formed to look into the issues and submit the report at the earliest," read the order issued by the Director General Of Police Manipur on Thursday. The Committee will be headed by K Jayanta Singh, Inspector General of Police (Administration), Manipur and assisted by Th Sanatomba Singh, AAIG(Adm). Fresh protests erupted in Manipur on Monday after a video showing the bodies of two students who reportedly went missing in July went viral on social media. The government responded by re-imposing the suspension of internet services for five days as a precautionary measure and announced that all schools in the state would be closed till Friday. Manipur has been witnessing violence since May 3, following the protests against the High Court's order asking the state government to consider the inclusion of the Meitei community in the category of Scheduled Tribes (ST). (ANI) As pro-Kannada and farmers' organisations have called for a 'Karnataka Bandh' on Friday to protest the release of Cauvery river water to neighbouring Tamil Nadu, the administration in Bengaluru has declared a holiday in all educational institutions in the city for the day. "As Karnataka bandh has been declared by various organizations, a holiday has been declared for all schools and colleges in Bengaluru city in the interest of students," said KA Dayananda, Bengaluru City District Deputy Commissioner. Meanwhile, in view of the bandh, prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) have been imposed in the Mandya district, where schools and colleges will remain closed tomorrow, said District Collector Kumar. Karnataka has been witnessing protests over the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu after the Supreme Court refused to intervene in the decisions of the Cauvery Water Management Authority(CWMA) and its assisting body Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) that directed the state to do so. In the latest decision, the CWRC had ordered Karnataka to ensure the release of 3,000 cusecs of Cauvery water at Biligundlu starting from September 28 till October 15, 2023. In the earlier spell, it was 5,000 cusecs. Members of Karnataka Rakshana Vedike Swabhimani Sene on Thursday interrupted a press conference being held by actor Siddharth for his film and demanded he leave the venue. The actor was promoting his upcoming film 'Chikku' in Bengaluru when the members of Karnataka Karnataka Rakshana Vedike Swabhimani Sene disrupted the event, saying that it was not an appropriate time for him to do that as Tamil Nadu was demanding Cauvery River water from Karnataka. Also, a group of the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV) activists on Thursday held a massive protest in Bengaluru against the state MPs and Siddaramaiah Government over the Cauvery River water issue. TheKRVactivists shouted slogans of "Cauvery Is Ours" as they protested against the release of the river water toTamil Nadu. KRV Women's Wing President Ashwini Gowda said that this is the time for all Kannadigas to come together and demanded that the state-elected MPs should come up and speak up on the matter and stand for the people of Karnataka or resign from the post. "The issue has been raised for 150 years and I think this is the right time for all Kannadigas to come and have a better conclusion," she said in a statement. The KRV activist also demanded the Prime Minister's intervention in the matter. "The MPs of Karnataka do not want to raise this issue and they do not want to talk about this. There is not even a single MP talking about the issue of Cauvery, we want them to talk or we want them to resign," she said. (ANI) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau apologised on behalf of the Canadian Parliament for honouring a Nazi veteran during an event last week, however, refused to accept the blame personally. The Opposition has come guns blazing at PM Trudeau over the incident, demanding him to apologise, and calling it a huge embarrassment for the country. On September 22, during Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskyy's speech in Canadas Parliament, 98-year-old Ukrainian Yaroslav Hunka, who served in the first Ukrainian division, also known as the SS division "Galicia" during World War II was honoured by the Speaker of the House of Commons of Canada Anthony Rota. "This was a mistake that has deeply embarrassed Parliament and Canada. All of us who were in this House on Friday regret deeply having stood and clapped even though we did so unaware of the context," CBC News quoted Trudeau as saying in a brief statement to reporters. He also said that the Speaker was solely responsible for the invitation and recognition of this man, and he wholly accepted that responsibility and stepped down. "It was a horrendous violation of the memory of the millions of people who died in the Holocaust," he said, adding the celebration of ex-soldier Yaroslav Hunka was "deeply, deeply painful" to Jewish people, Poles, Roma, the LGBT community and other racialized people in particular some of the groups that were targeted by the Nazi regime in the Second World War. Trudeau also said that "Canada is deeply sorry" for involving Zelenskyy, who was pictured applauding Hunka an image that has been exploited by Russian propagandists, CBC News reported. Canada has sent an apology to Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian delegation through diplomatic channels, Trudeau added. CBC News reported citing Liberal caucus sources that Trudeau has told MPs on Wednesday to avoid speaking to the press about Hunka's invitation and the subsequent fallout, and that the media frenzy would die down if they stayed tight-lipped. Meanwhile, Canadas opposition leader, Pierre Poilevre, has lashed out at the Trudeau government, asking if the country has seen a bigger diplomatic embarrassment in history. The success of diplomatic visits is the personal responsibility of the Prime Minister of Canada: Justin Trudeau. Instead, we have an unprecedented global embarrassment for our country under his watch. What a disgrace, he posted on X (formerly Twitter). He had earlier called the incident the greatest diplomatic embarrassment in the countrys history. Has there ever been a greater diplomatic embarrassment in the history of our country? he asked Earlier on Tuesday, Anthony Rota resigned as the Speaker of the Canadian House of Commons on Tuesday amid building pressure over the controversy, Canada-based Global News reported. Rota announced his resignation in the House of Commons Tuesday afternoon. His resignation takes effect at the end of business day Wednesday, he added. I must step down as your Speaker, he said, adding, I reiterate my profound regret. (ANI) Cuban envoy to India, Alejandro Simancas Marin said that Havana has deep respect for the Indian history, culture and historical context and also for the will of the people and the government. He also recalled the historic visit of former President Fidel Castro to India, 50 years ago on the date, and stated that Castro had laid the foundation of India-Cuba friendship. Speaking to ANI, Marin said, We respect India very deeply and we respect the Indian history, the culture and the historical context in which India has developed and the will of the Indian people and the Indian government in order to continue finding the best way for the economic, political and social development of the country. He further said that Fidel Castro made a huge contribution to developing the bilateral relationship between the two countries. This is a very historic moment because Fidel Castro had a huge contribution to the bilateral relationshipestablished the basis of relationship, cooperation, dialogue, respect, and solidarity that we enjoy today. No matter, it happened 50 years ago. The same values, principles, position, procedure that we cheer, we continue cheering today, he said. Meanwhile, a program was organised on Wednesday to celebrate 50 years of the visit of former Cuban President Fidel Castro to India. The program was attended by Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Meenakashi Lekhi. She also delivered the keynote address on India-Cuba Relations: Present Trajectory and Way Forward This program was arranged today to celebrate 50 years of Fidel Castro's visit to India and the occasion was handing over the presidency of the Non-Aligned movement to India, she told reporters. India-Cuba relations have been traditionally warm and friendly. India was among the first countries to extend recognition to Cuba after the 1959 Revolution, as per the Ministry of External Affairs. Cuba shares India's views on democratizing UN and expansion of the UNSecurity Council. It also holds the reform of the UN Security Council as central to theoverall reform process, the MEA stated. (ANI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankaron Wednesday (local time) arrived in Washington, DC, where he will be engaging with a number of delegates. Jaishankar arrived from New York in DC. He will be meeting his US counterpart Antony Blinken during his visit along withWhite House officials, members of the US administration, business leaders and think tanks. Jaishankar will also meet US Trade Representative, Ambassador Katherine Tai in a closed press meeting here in Washington, DC. Earlier on Tuesday, Jaishankar addressed the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. During his address, the EAM said that political convenience should not be countenanced in determining responses to terrorism and extremism in an apparent reference to Canada amid a diplomatic standoff between the two countries. He also said that respect for territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs cannot be exercised in cherry-picking. Jaishnakr said there is a thrust on the promotion of a rules-based order and respect for the UN Charter is also invoked and that rules will work only when they apply equally to all. But for all the talk, it is still a few nations who shape the agenda and seek to define the norms. This cannot go on indefinitely. Nor will it go unchallenged. A fair, equitable and democratic order will surely emerge, once we all put our minds to it. And for a start, that means ensuring that rule-makers do not subjugate rule-takers. After all, rules will work only when they apply equally to all, he said. He further called on the United Nations to make reforms to stay relevant in the modern world and said that the issue cannot remain "indefinite" and "unchallenged". EAM took a jibe at some nations and said, "In our deliberations, we often advocate the promotion of a rules-based order. From time to time, respect for the UN Charter is also involved. But for all the talk, it is still a few nations that shape the agenda and seek to define the norms. This can't go on indefinitely nor will it go unchallenged. A fair, equitable and democratic order will surely emerge once we all put our minds to it. And for a start, that means ensuring that rule-makers do not subjugate rule-takers." Meanwhile, Jaishankar is on a visit to the US from September 22-30. He will also be addressing the 4th World Culture Festival being organised by the Art of Living. (ANI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankaron Wednesday (local time) arrived in Washington, DC, where he will be engaging with a number of delegates. Jaishankar arrived from New York in DC. He will be meeting his US counterpart Antony Blinken during his visit. Other than that, he will also meet senior White House officials, members of the US administration, business leaders and think tanks. Earlier on Tuesday, Jaishankar addressed the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly. During his address, the EAM said that political convenience should not be countenanced in determining responses to terrorism and extremism in an apparent reference to Canada amid a diplomatic standoff between the two countries. He also said that respect for territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs cannot be exercised in cherry-picking. Jaishnakr said there is a thrust on the promotion of a rules-based order and respect for the UN Charter is also invoked and that rules will work only when they apply equally to all. But for all the talk, it is still a few nations who shape the agenda and seek to define the norms. This cannot go on indefinitely. Nor will it go unchallenged. A fair, equitable and democratic order will surely emerge, once we all put our minds to it. And for a start, that means ensuring that rule-makers do not subjugate rule-takers. After all, rules will work only when they apply equally to all, he said. He further called on the United Nations to make reforms to stay relevant in the modern world and said that the issue cannot remain "indefinite" and "unchallenged". EAM took a jibe at some nations and said, "In our deliberations, we often advocate the promotion of a rules-based order. From time to time, respect for the UN Charter is also involved. But for all the talk, it is still a few nations that shape the agenda and seek to define the norms. This can't go on indefinitely nor will it go unchallenged. A fair, equitable and democratic order will surely emerge once we all put our minds to it. And for a start, that means ensuring that rule-makers do not subjugate rule-takers." Meanwhile, Jaishankar is on a visit to the US from September 22-30. He will also be addressing the 4th World Culture Festival being organised by the Art of Living. (ANI) The UN Refugee Agency rebuked UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman remarks that the asylum framework is creating huge incentives for illegal migration." The UN stated that the Refugee Convention is the "cornerstone" of the international refugee protection regime, CNN reported on Wednesday. The United Nations agency issued an unusual statement on Tuesday responding to Bravermans comments, defending the 1951 Refugee Convention and criticizing the current asylum backlog in the UK. The Refugee Convention is the cornerstone of the international refugee protection regime and remains a life-saving instrument that ensures millions of people fleeing conflict and persecution each year can access safety and protection across borders, the UNHCR said. The statement followed the UK Home Secretarys speech at the conservative American Enterprise Institute in Washington on Tuesday, in which she refused to rule out leaving the international convention and questioned whether it was fit for our modern age amid what she claimed was a crisis of illegal immigration for the West, CNN reported. Uncontrolled immigration, inadequate integration, and a misguided dogma of multiculturalism have proven a toxic combination for Europe over the last few decades, said Braverman, adding that immigration to the UK and Europe has been too much, too quick, with too little thought given to integration and the impact on social cohesion. Braverman also argued that being fearful of discrimination due to ones sexuality or gender should not be enough of a reason to qualify for asylum a statement that has been criticized by both the UN and refugee charities. Let me be clear. There are vast swathes of the world where it is extremely difficult to be gay or to be a woman. Where individuals are being persecuted, it is right that we offer sanctuary, CNN quoted her as saying. She added, But we will not be able to sustain an asylum system if, in effect, simply being gay or a woman or fearful of discrimination in your country of origin is sufficient to qualify for protection. The 1951 Refugee Convention, which was drawn up after World War II, outlines the internationally recognized definition of a refugee and outlines the legal protection, rights and assistance a refugee is entitled to receive. The core principle is that a refugee should not be returned to a country where they face serious threats to their life or freedom. Braverman said the Refugee Convention was an incredible achievement of its age, but argued that its not fit for a modern era where jet travel has transformed global movement and the internet has made people aware of how much higher wages are in other parts of the world. Seeking asylum and seeking better economic prospects are not the same thing. Seeking refuge in the first safe country you reach or shopping around for your preferred destination are not the same thing. Being trafficked, i.e. transported against your will, perhaps to be sold into sex slavery and being smuggled, i.e. asking someone to sneak you into a country, are not the same thing, CNN quoted Braverman as saying. Any attempt to reform the refugee convention will see you smeared as anti-refugee, she added. In response, the UN Refugee Agency said, The need is not for reform, or more restrictive interpretation, but for stronger and more consistent application of the Convention and its underlying principle of responsibility-sharing. The agency highlighted the UKs large asylum backlog, noting that it has presented the British government with concrete and actionable proposals to help clear the backlog and integrate people who are found to be refugees. The UK had a backlog of more than 2,15,000 work in progress asylum cases as of June 2023, which includes 1,38,000 cases awaiting an initial decision, 5,100 awaiting an appeal outcome, and about 41,200 cases subject to removal action, CNN reported citing a recent UK parliament research briefing. An appropriate response to the increase in arrivals and to the UKs current asylum backlog would include strengthening and expediting decision-making procedures. This would accelerate the integration of those found to be refugees and facilitate the swift return of those who have no legal basis to stay, the UNHCR statement said. Expanding safe, regular pathways for refugees to travel to the UK would also offer real alternatives to dangerous, irregular journeys, CNN quoted it as saying. Notably, it is not the first time Braverman has made headlines for her divisive rhetoric on immigration. Her self-proclaimed obsession with curbing migration has previously attracted criticism from international agencies, lawyers, rights groups and many of her own colleagues, according to CNN. She has staked her political reputation on her ability to Stop the Boats an oft-repeated government pledge aimed at reducing the growing number of migrants crossing the English Channel on small vessels. Last year, the number of migrants arriving on small boats across the channel reached around 46,000 a record level, CNN reported. (ANI) Indian diaspora in Canada have termed as extremely irresponsible the allegations against India made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar stating that the former could have reworded or rephrased his statement to ensure that the Hindu and Sikh communities are not impacted. The announcement made by Prime Minister Trudeau in the parliament was something that could have been easily avoided and he could have easily followed diplomatic channels, Indo-Canadian businessman from Brampton Ravi Sharma said. He was responding to Trudeaus allegations on the Indian governments involvement in the fatal shooting of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. The moment the announcement was made, the Hindu community in Canada was on alert and it did create an immediate impact that people felt they were in distress and they were fearful because the pitch that was made in the parliament sounded as if a Hindu government had killed a Sikh leader. Which is not the fact. The fact was very different. And Hindus and Sikhs have always lived in peace and harmony in Canada and the statement made by Prime Minister Trudeau was extremely irresponsible, Canadian businessman from Brampton said. Sharma said Trudeau could have simply reworded it, rephrased it in order to make sure that the communities are not impacted. And this is what I have been hearing from my fellow Hindu and Sikh members and the people that I know. And I hope the communities will work towards strengthening their bonds and this statement will have no impact as far as our community relations go and we will continue to make Canada strong and our brotherhood strong as well. Last Thursday, Trudeau said his country stands by the international rules-based order and repeated his charge on India's role in the killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar stating that there are "credible reasons" to believe the same. Addressing a press conference at Canadas Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York, Trudeau said, "As I said on Monday, there are credible reasons to believe that agents of the Goverment of India were involved in the killing of a Canadian on Canadian soil. That is ...there is something of utmost foundational importance in a country's rule of law in a world where international rules-based order matters...we have rigorous and independent judges and robust processes..." The Indo-Canadian businessman, Ravi, said the Canadian government needs to either put out a great proof to prove that the Indian government was involved or there has to be a mechanism that has to work out with a complete, thorough and impartial investigation into the matter and put the complete results out in public so that the public opinion can be rectified or the public opinion can be changed to know exactly what happened and how did this killing transpire. Indo-Canadian Geeta Bhadauria has meanwhile said: I think what the Canadian, the Indian government should do is they should not speak through the media, but they should speak through official spokespersons about what they're doing to resolve this issue. She said all this information should be laid out in public because when things happen behind closed doors, I think that's when people become suspicious and they lose their trust in their elected leaders. Canada recently said it wants to "work constructively with India" regarding the alleged involvement of New Delhi in the killing of Nijjar. Bhadauria said: So, I think the first thing is the Canadian and the Indian government, they need to start having some more dialogue and they need to start addressing the issues that have been raised and they need to understand what is the truth, not their individual truths, but what's the actual truth. She said: We need to find out what exactly happened and make sure that the (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) RCMP can get to the bottom of this. And I think the number one thing that the Canadian and the Indian government need to do, that they need to do is to make sure that they don't contaminate and corrupt the RCMP's investigative process. On Trudeaus allegations against India, she said, the announcement was full of prevarications. It was a lot of possible links, active investigation, and there were no actual solid leads or actual real information that the Canadian public could cling to and understand what's going on, she said. The Canadian people want to know. We want to know that we're safe in Canada from foreign governments, from foreigners, and even from terrorist acts within our own country, Bhadauria added. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has assured the Canadian side to take action if they provide specific information in connection with Nijjars killing, adding "We are open to looking at it." Speaking at a discussion at the Council on Foreign Relations in New York, Jaishankar said, We told the Canadians that this is not the government of India's policy. Secondly, we said if you have something specific and if you have something relevant, let us know. We are open to looking at it...The picture is not complete without the context in a way. Notably, Canada has yet to provide any public evidence to support the claim about the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Jaishankar further said that there has been a lot of organised crime in Canada in the last few years, and the Indian government has given a lot of information to Canada regarding this. (ANI) North Korea parliament has unanimously moved to enshrine its nuclear programme in the country's constitution, hence, the amendment would establish North korea's pursuit of a nuclear force "as the basic law of the state," reported Al Jazeera citing state news agency KCNA. The recent development came after meetings of the Supreme Peoples Assembly, North Koreas rubber-stamp legislature on Tuesday and Wednesday. North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un addressed the assembly to support the amendment. According to Al Jazeera, Kim called to "accelerate the modernisation of nuclear weapons in order to hold the definite edge of strategic deterrence" against perceived threats, like the United States and South Korea. This is a historic event that provided a powerful political lever for remarkably strengthening the national defence capabilities, Kim added, according to the KCNA. The (North Korean) nuclear force-building policy has been made permanent as the basic law of the state, which no one is allowed to flout with anything," Kim added. Earlier. North Korean Ambassador Kim Song warned the United Nations General Assembly that his country could be pushed to nuclear war by hostile threats from outside", reported Al Jazeera. The Korean peninsula is in a hair-trigger situation with imminent danger of nuclear war breakout, Ambassador Kim said on Tuesday. He further described it as "extremely dangerous" conditions and said that the North Korea "is urgently required to further accelerate the build-up of its self-defence capabilities to defend itself impregnably." The announcement came in defiance of multiple UN Security Council sanctions which meant to deter North Korea from pursuing nuclear arms. North Korea has been escalating the number of weapon tests it conducts over the past year and has been launching an array of ballistic and cruise missiles, Al Jazeera reported. Earlier in March, Lieutenant General Scott Berrier, the director of the US Defense Intelligence Agency, said "He will uncork that at a time and place of his choosing, which is something well be watching for very, very carefully." Berrier further warned that North Korea has become "much more dangerous" as it inflates its arsenal of missiles and nuclear weapons. Earlier this month, Kim also visited Russia and met Russian President Vladimir Putin at Vostochny spaceport to strengthen ties and inspect Russian military capailities. Moreover, Putin pledged to visit North Korea in return and further raised concerns about an arms trade deal between Russia and North Korea. (ANI) The Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis was informed on Wednesday that a large number of beggars from Pakistan were moving abroad, which has further spurred "human trafficking". Overseas Ministry Secretary Zulfikar Haider disclosed this during a discussion in the Senate panel on the issue of skilled and unskilled labour leaving the country. Haider told the committee that a staggering 90 per cent of beggars arrested in foreign countries were of Pakistani origin, Dawn reported. He further said that many beggars exploited pilgrim visas to travel to Saudi Arabia, Iran and Iraq. Adding to this, he noted that a significant number of pickpockets were arrested at holy sites and were identified to be Pakistani nationals. Meanwhile, Haider said that Japan has now emerged as a new destination of such visitors, according to Dawn. Moreover, he emphasized Pakistan's historical role in exporting skilled labour and expressed optimism that the country's foreign remittances would increase when professionals went abroad. He further said that Saudi Arabia now preferred skilled labour over untrained individuals, according to Dawn. Hasan also noted that as many as 50,000 engineers in Pakistan were unemployed. "India has reached the moon, while we stumble every day, the senator added. He also informed that that approximately three million people were in Saudi Arabia, 1.5 million Pakistanis were in the UAE, while 0.2 million were in Qatar. (ANI) At least one person was killed and 162 people were injured in a warehouse explosion in Uzbekistan's capital Tashkent on Thursday morning (local time), CNN reported citing officials. In an update, Uzbekistan's Ministry of Emergencies said that the situation at the site of the warehouse explosion in Tashkent is "under control" as emergency workers continue to make efforts to fully extinguish a fire that was caused due to the explosion. A teenager, aged 16 or 17, died at the site of the incident, according to Uzbekistan's Health Ministry. The ministry further said 24 of the people injured were taken to hospitals for treatment, CNN reported. Uzbekistan's Ministry of Emergencies in a statement said, "From the first minutes, the leadership of the Ministry of Emergency Situations has been working at the scene of the incident, and the forces and resources of specialized organizations have been involved." It further said that the fire was contained at 5:02 am (local time) on Thursday. The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Uzbekistan said that a fire erupted in one of the warehouses in Sergeli district after the facility was struck by lightning, CNN reported citing Russian news agency TASS. According to the ministry, the warehouse was owned by Inter Logistics LLC, CNN reported citing TASS. (ANI) Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov on Thursday met UK counterpart Grant Shapps in Kyiv. The two leaders spoke about Ukraine's demand for increased air defences, artillery and anti-drone systems, CNN reported. Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, Rustem Umerov stated, "Important visit of my colleague @GrantShapps to Kyiv. Thanked our UK friends for unwavering support. Briefed on current battlefield situation and urgent needs. Focus on air defence, artillery, anti-drone systems. Winter is coming but we are ready. Stronger together." Earlier, UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps held a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy thanked Shapps for the UK's financial, defence and humanitarian support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. The two leaders discussed the issue of bolstering Ukraine's air defence, which is particularly important in the run-up to the winter season. Notably, the UK has been offering defence and humanitarian support to Ukraine ever since the conflict between Kyiv and Moscow started in February last year. Ukrainian President's Office in a statement said, "The parties also praised the adoption by the Group of Seven at the NATO Summit in Vilnius of a Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine and the start of negotiations with the UK on a bilateral agreement on security guarantees for Ukraine." Zelenskyy praised the level of cooperation of Ukraine with the UK in the defence sector, which allows the Ukrainian army to significantly bolster its capabilities on the battlefield. During the meeting, Volodymyr Zelenskyy said, "On behalf of the whole nation, I thank you for everything you are doing for us. We are grateful for your help military, financial, humanitarian. We greatly appreciate that we can rely on you," according to Ukrainian President's Office. (ANI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday held a meeting with US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. Both sides recognized the tremendous progress in bilateral relations this year and discussed taking it forward. Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, Jaishankar stated, "Began my Washington DC visit with a meeting with NSA @JakeSullivan46. Recognized the tremendous progress in our bilateral relationship this year and discussed taking it forward." EAM S Jaishankar on Wednesday (local time) arrived in Washington, DC, where he will be engaging with a number of delegates. Jaishankar arrived from New York in Washington, DC. During his visit, he will be meeting his US counterpart Antony Blinken along with White House officials, members of the US administration, business leaders and think tanks. Jaishankar will also meet US Trade Representative, Ambassador Katherine Tai in a closed press meeting here in Washington, DC. Notably, Jaishankar is on a visit to the US from September 22-30. He will also be addressing the 4th World Culture Festival being organised by the Art of Living. Earlier this month, US President Joe Biden visited New Delhi to attend the G20 Summit under India's Presidency. During the visit, Biden metPrime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed issues ranging from defence cooperation, and technology sharing. The US President also congratulated India for the success of the Chandrayaan-3. During this, India and the US also settled the seventh and last outstanding World Trade Organisation (WTO) dispute. Notably, the six previous disputes were resolved during PM Modi's state visit to the US. The two leaders called on their governments to continue the work of transforming the India-US Strategic Partnership across all dimensions of our multifaceted global agenda, based on trust and mutual understanding. After the meeting, both the leaders lauded the India-US relations and said that the friendship between the two nations will continue to play a great role in furthering global good. Happy to have welcomed @POTUS @JoeBidento 7, Lok Kalyan Marg. Our meeting was very productive. We were able to discuss numerous topics which will further economic and people-to-people linkages between India and USA. The friendship between our nations will continue to play a great role in furthering global good, PM Modi said in a post on 'X' (formerly known as Twitter). US President Biden also affirmed support towards making the India-US partnership stronger, closer, and more dynamic. Great seeing you, Mr Prime Minister. Today, and throughout the G20, we'll affirm that the United States-India partnership is stronger, closer, and more dynamic than any time in history, President Biden posted on X. Earlier on Tuesday, Jaishankar addressed the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. During his address, the EAM said that political convenience should not be countenanced in determining responses to terrorism and extremism in an apparent reference to Canada amid a diplomatic standoff between the two countries. He also said that respect for territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs cannot be exercised in cherry-picking. Jaishankar said there is a thrust on the promotion of a rules-based order and respect for the UN Charter is also invoked and that rules will work only when they apply equally to all. EAM took a jibe at some nations and said, "In our deliberations, we often advocate the promotion of a rules-based order. From time to time, respect for the UN Charter is also involved. But for all the talk, it is still a few nations that shape the agenda and seek to define the norms. This can't go on indefinitely nor will it go unchallenged. A fair, equitable and democratic order will surely emerge once we all put our minds to it. And for a start, that means ensuring that rule-makers do not subjugate rule-takers." (ANI) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed gratitude to the Non-resident Indians (NRIs), especially the NRIs from Uttarakhand, for their cooperation in the road show organized in London regarding the Investors Summit on Thursday. CM Dhami who is on a four-day official visit to the United Kingdom expressed happiness that despite living abroad they are connected to their culture and with their hard work the migrant brothers of Uttarakhand have made a special place for themselves. The Chief Minister said that the migrant Indians from Uttarakhand in the United Kingdom are the brand ambassadors of Uttarakhand. Speaking on his visit to London, he shared that the London tour has remained very successful and an encouraging talk with investors, Important MoUs have been signed on investment. Hailing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's support for Uttarakhand, CM Dhami said that the PM has a special attachment to Uttarakhand and the state has developed under his leadership and guidance. He informed that the state government has made 27 policies and called upon investors to invest in Uttarakhand. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held meetings with various industrialists and participated in a roadshow organized for the Global Investors Summit in UKs Birmingham on Thursday, said CMO Uttarakhand office. The roadshow which was organized in Birmingham was attended by more than 250 delegates related to education, IT, health, manufacturing industry who took information about various policies from the state government representatives. During the event, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami invited all the investors for the Global Investor Summit to be organized in the coming month of December. Along with this, Chief Minister Dhami assured all the investors of full cooperation from the Uttarakhand government. (ANI) The Afghan Embassy in New Delhi has purportedly issued a communication on this issue, however, the authenticity of the communication and its contents are being examined, sources said. This is in the context of the Afghan Ambassador being out of India for the past many months, the steady departure of diplomats to third countries reportedly after receiving asylum as well as reports of infighting amongst Embassy personnel. Earlier in August, the Afghan ambassador to India, Farid Mamundzay said that he is not missing and was away from the country for "personal and family reasons." He further stated that the embassy continues to function its routine work normally and has diligently addressed various matters, ensuring that the missions objectives continue to be met efficiently. (ANI) The Chinese hackers breached multiple US governments and stole around 60,000 emails from senior State Department officials in May this year, CNN reported citing a Senate staffer. The new details from a briefing to senators and their staffers illustrate how the Chinese operatives allegedly scoured the inboxes of senior US diplomats focused on diplomacy in the Pacific ahead of a high-stakes trip by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to China in June. The hackers raided the unclassified email accounts of nine State Department officials focused on East Asia and the Pacific, and another official who works on European issues, CNN reported citing a staffer in the office of Republican Senator Eric Schmitt of Missouri. The staffer, who declined to be named, attended a briefing on the hacking campaign that senior State Department IT officials gave the Senate on Wednesday. The hackers were also able to access a list of every State Department email address, according to the Senate staffer. That kind of reconnaissance could be useful information for any follow-on hacking efforts aimed at the State Department, according to CNN. At a press briefing on Thursday, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller confirmed that the hackers accessed about 60,000 State Department emails. This was a hack of Microsoft systems that the State Department uncovered and notified Microsoft about, Miller told reporters. The State Department has not formally attributed the hack, but Microsoft has blamed a China-based hacking group. We have no reason to doubt [Microsofts] attribution in this case, CNN quoted Miller as saying. The stealthy hacking campaign exploited Microsoft email software and began with the hackers breaching a Microsoft engineer, the company has said. The cyber intrusions have showcased the leaps China has made in its cyber capabilities, CNN reported citing experts. This has prompted US lawmakers and Biden administration officials to scrutinize the US governments reliance on Microsoft technology. The cyber-espionage campaign breached the unclassified email accounts of US Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, and Daniel Kritenbrink, the assistant secretary of State for East Asia who travelled with Blinken to China in June, CNN previously reported. Republican Rep. Don Bacon of Nebraska, who has been critical of the Chinese government, said he was also breached by the hackers. Chinese government officials have responded to the hacking allegations by accusing the US government of conducting cyberattacks against China. In a statement to CNN, Senator Schmitt welcomed the briefing but said his investigation into the hacks is far from over. We need to harden our defences against these types of cyberattacks and intrusions in the future, and we need to take a hard look at the federal governments reliance on a single vendor as a potential weak point, CNN quoted Schmitt as saying. (ANI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a meeting with his US counterpart Antony Blinken in Washington DC, and the two leaders affirmed hope for positive outcomes from the bilateral talks. Antony Blinken said that the two leaders have had very good discussions lately and is looking forward for the talks. It is a pleasure to welcome my friend and colleague Foreign Minister Jaishankar here at the State Department. We have had very good discussions over the last few weeks, of course at the G20, in New York and the General Assembly and I am looking forward, Blinken told reporters. Jaishankar recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modis state visit to the US in June and said that he is looking forward to Blinken's visit to Delhi for the 2+2 dialogue. Thank you Antony, good to be back here. And we of course, had the Prime Minister here this summer. We thank the US for all the support at the G20 Summit and I actually look forward to seeing you in Delhi for 2+2, Jaishankar said. The fourth 2+2 dialogue between India and the US was held in Washington, DC in April last year. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh represented the Indian side and were welcomed by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin. Earlier in the day, Jaishankar met US Trade Representative Ambassador Katherine Tai and discussed the expanding trade and economic relationship between India and the US. He also held a meeting with US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. Both sides recognized the tremendous progress in bilateral relations this year and discussed taking it forward. The EAM also participated in a conversation with Think Tanks about Indias growing role in global transformation. Earlier on Tuesday, Jaishankar addressed the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Notably, Jaishankar is on a visit to the US from September 22-30. He will also be addressing the 4th World Culture Festival being organised by the Art of Living. (ANI) Someone was taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries Wednesday night after a fire was reported at a Japanese restaurant in Cornelius, officials said. ALSO READ: Seafood restaurant opens in Cornelius after $1M-plus renovation The fire was reported at about 7:15 p.m. at Noboru Japanese Steak House and Sushi Bar on Chartwell Center Drive. The patient was taken to Atrium CMC, MEDIC said. No further information was released. This is a developing story, check back with wsoctv.com for updates. VIDEO: Family, dog escape house fire in east Charlotte Russian forces attacked Mykolaiv and Kherson oblasts on the evening of Sept. 27, killing one man and injuring another, authorities reported. Oleksandr Prokudin , governor of Kherson Oblast, said that there was "massive shelling" in the region and that a 41-year-old Kherson resident was killed in his own home. Another man, aged 27, was injured and received medical treatment. Not long after reports of shelling in Kherson Oblast, the Air Force stated that Shahed drones were en route to Mykolaiv, Dnipropetrovsk, and Kirovohrad oblasts. The mayor of Mykolaiv, Oleksandr Sienkevych, warned residents of the aerial threat via Telegram. In the city of Kherson, Russian strikes hit the same buildings several times as firefighters battled fires caused by the first round of shelling, the Ukrainian State Emergency Service reported on Telegram. They then had to return to extinguish the subsequent fires. The Kyiv Independent has previously reported on Russias use of so-called "double-tap" strikes, in which there is an initial strike followed by a second, after a delay, in order to potentially wound or kill first responders. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine sends letter to G7 on use of Western parts in Shahed drones Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. From left to right, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley , Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis , businessman Vivek Ramaswamy and Sen. Tim Scott , R-S.C., argue a point during a Republican presidential primary debate hosted by Fox Business Network and Univision, Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif. | Mark J. Terrill, Associated Press On Wednesday night, seven Republican candidates gathered on onstage for two hours to spar over which of them should emerge as the partys nominee for president. The second GOP debate took place at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California. Fox News anchors Dana Perino and Stuart Varney moderated alongside Univison news anchor Ilia Calderon. The current front-runner, former President Donald Trump, missed the debate, instead traveling to Detroit to address auto workers. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, former Vice President Mike Pence, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum were present at the debate. Candidates were asked about issues like the UAW strike, crime, the border, relations with China, Ukraine and abortion. If you didnt have time to watch the debate or want a refresher on what candidates said, here are 10 takeaways from the second GOP debate. Related 1. Ronald Reagan At the onset of the debate, Fox Business played a clip of Ronald Reagan saying, The nine most terrifying words in the English language are, Im from the government, and Im here to help. A flurry of clips of previous Republican candidates flashed across the screen as a voiceover asked a question others have asked: What kind of conservatism will be the future of the GOP? And would Reagan recognize the Republican Party that exists today? The first question of the night went to Scott. He was asked about his citation of Reagan when talking about the UAW strike. Before a different question about immigration, a 1984 clip of Reagan saying, I believe in the idea of amnesty for those who have put down roots and lived here was played. Reagan was also invoked in a back-and-forth between Ramaswamy and Scott. Ramaswamy was defending a decision to do business in China. 2. The UAW strike In response to the question about the UAW strike, Scott said unions tend to overpromise and underdeliver. Ramaswamy also discussed the UAW strike, saying although he does not sympathize with union leaders, he has sympathy for workers. He said the impact of D.C. politics is ultimately the real issue behind strikes. Pence commented on President Joe Bidens recent trip to the UAW picket lines, saying, Joe Biden doesnt belong on a picket line, he belongs on the unemployment line. Pence said if elected, he would stand for Americans right to work and their decision to join a union or not. Both Pence and Burgum discussed the negative impacts of the Biden administrations subsidies of electric cars, with Burgum saying theyre detrimental to the car manufacturing industry. 3. Did DeSantis reverse his decline? All eyes were on DeSantis ahead of the debate: Hes second to Trump in polling and he was facing pressure to see if he could reverse his declining numbers. In his first response of the night, DeSantis criticized both Trump and Biden, saying that neither of them had shown strong leadership. Wheres Joe Biden? Hes completely missing in action from leadership. And you know who else is missing in action? Donald Trump is missing in action. He should be on this stage tonight, he said. This line earned DeSantis a round of applause. Compared to the first debate, he was more talkative Wednesday night. Analysts weighed in on DeSantis performance. Helped by low expectations, DeSantis had a good night. He may not bounce in the polls, but he should have stopped the bleeding, Liz Peek wrote for Fox News. DeSantis needed a standout night given his frail claim to being the leading Trump alternative. He got in the early Trump zinger and gave a crowd pleasing answer about getting tougher on China, Alex Leary and Eliza Collins wrote for The Wall Street Journal. ... But DeSantis, like the other candidates, struggled for debate dominance in the cacophony. 4. Foreign relations, the border and China Candidates discussed what stance the United States should take regarding Chinas role in the opioid crisis, illegal immigration and preventative terrorism measures. Ramaswamy said, I favor ending birthright citizenship of children of illegal immigrants. He later added, We will declare independence from China. Haley critiqued how Trump handled relations with China. She said, He focused on trade with China. He didnt focus on the fact that they were buying up our farmland. He didnt focus on the fact that they were killing Americans. He didnt focus on the fact that they were stealing $600 billion in intellectual property. Mike Pence said as vice president, he reduced illegal immigration by 90%. A nation without borders is not a nation. He added, I know how to do it and we will do it again. DeSantis said securing the border will be a Day 1 issue for him, declaring it a national emergency. 5. The elephant not in the room Trump was once again the elephant not in the room. He was criticized by some of the candidates, but they did not bring up his criminal indictments. At the onset of the debate, besides DeSantis, Christie also criticized Trump for not being present at the debate. Youre not here tonight because youre afraid of being on the stage and defending your record, he said. You keep doing that, and no one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore. Were gonna call you Donald Duck. Christie again attacked Trump for calling Russian President Vladimir Putin a brilliant and good leader in his discussion of Ukraine. DeSantis went after Trump for his comments on abortion and criticized Trump for not being present to defend his record. 6. Crime When asked, How would you reduce crime in America? Christie drew on his experience as an attorney, saying he went after the crime that was affecting peoples lives. Perino asked DeSantis how he would address the revolving door of criminals in the United States. DeSantis responded he would better support police. As president I will use the Justice Department ... we need to choose law and order over rioting and disorder. Ramaswamy called fentanyl bio-terrorism, saying he would wage war on the mass importation of drugs into the U.S. He also expressed the need for faith-based mental health care. Pence said, Were going to pass a federal expedited death penalty for anyone involved in a mass shooting, so they will meet their fate in months, not years. 7. TikTok in the debate and in the ads Social media restrictions were a tense part of the debate. Ramaswamy voiced his position on social media restrictions a couple of times during the debate. He said anyone under the age of 16 should not have access to social media. After Ramswamy expressed his opinion, Haley said she feels dumber when she hears him talk. She described TikTok as one of the most dangerous social media apps and called out Ramaswamy for joining TikTok to appeal to votes. While not much else was said about social media during the debate, TikTok ads made an appearance during commercial breaks. Like during the first debate, there were a couple of commercials for TikTok that looked like they were trying to appeal to conservative critics of the app. 8. Candidates speak on Ukraine On Ukraine, DeSantis expressed the need to defend Americans and said he will end the war. As commander in chief, DeSantis said, I will defend this country. Scott, who supports funding Ukraine, said, 90% of the money we send over there (Ukraine) is a loan. Our national vital interest is in degrading the Russian military, Scott said. Ramaswamy responded, We need to level with the American people on this issue. Just because Putin is an evil dictator, that does not mean Ukraine is good. He said, China is the real enemy and were driving Russia further into Chinas arms. 9. DeSantis and Christie talk about abortion In the aftermath of the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade, abortion has emerged as a key issue for voters. Perino asked DeSantis how he will win independent, pro-choice voters in Arizona. DeSantis said he did not think that anti-abortion policies were responsible for losses in the midterms. He referenced his record in Florida and said hes confident he could convince voters like he did in his home state. He called on Trump to defend his comments about abortion legislation and criticized Trump for not being present to do so. Christie also responded to the question about abortion and said Republicans needed to approach abortion by caring about life at every stage. 10. Which candidate should be voted off the stage? When Perino asked candidates to write down which person on the stage should be voted off, DeSantis said he thought it was a disrespectful question. The other candidates seemed to agree. Perino pivoted and asked the candidates what their mathematical path was to victory, considering the poll data showing Trump ahead. DeSantis responded that polls dont elect people, voters elect presidents. Christie ended up answering the question about who should be voted off the island and said he would pick Donald Trump. Ramaswamy then defended Trump and said the America First agenda isnt particular to one person, but he respected Trumps presidential record. Related Bonus: Jonathan Roumie made an appearance in an ad Jonathan Roumie, who plays Jesus in The Chosen, appeared in an ad for the prayer app Hallow during a commercial break. In what the creators call one of the largest public art events ever created, a 12-foot-tall puppet depicting a Syrian refugee girl wrapped up the Michigan portion of its U.S. tour Wednesday, telling a unique story at each stop along the way. Little Amal, a puppet depicting a 10-year-old Syrian refugee girl, has visited about 15 countries and is currently on a 6,000-mile tour across the United States. Her most recent stop, Detroit, concluded the Michigan portion of her journey, which also included Ann Arbor, Ferndale, Flint and Dearborn. With each stop, a unique story was told along with local community partners. Khadijat Oseni, associate artistic director of the not-for-profit company The Walk, said they are responsible for bringing the "girl," while event partners tailor it toward the specific community. Little Amal, a 12-foot-tall puppet of a 10-year-old Syrian refugee girl, traveled to Detroit as a symbol of displaced people across the globe and walked across the Bagley Pedestrian Bridge, stopping at the Southwest Detroit Immigrant and Refugee Center and Matrix Theatre Company in southwest Detroit on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. We co-create and co-design with our local partners because we dont know what is important to people that are living in Mexicantown and Detroit at large, so they help us," Oseni said. We advise how Amal best thrives in the scenario and they bring the community, the stories and the touchpoints that would resonate with what new conversations they're trying to have on the ground in their communities. David Lan, of London, and a producer of "The Walk," said they had many locations to choose from for the visit. However, they tried to plan a route to allow for a broad range of American experiences from major cities to small towns. Little Amal, whose name means "hope" in Arabic, was inspired by a production of Lan's titled "The Jungle." The play is about a refugee camp and features primarily adult characters; however, there's a portion where a young Syrian refugee girl appears. Oseni said Little Amal was displaced from her mother, and the original walk was Amal's attempt to find her. The original walk started in 2021 and she journeyed across Europe in hopes of being reunited with her mother," she said. "Through that experience of going through 65 different cities and interacting with everyone from the public to youth leaders, civic leaders, artists ... it was apparent that there were so many different stories and reasons why people have to migrate or seek better life and situation, and the word refugee, theres a larger breath than what is portrayed in the media." An onlooker reaches out to touch the hand of Little Amal, a 12-foot-tall puppet of a 10-year-old Syrian refugee girl that traveled to Detroit as a symbol of displaced people across the globe in southwest Detroit on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. Lan continued, saying Little Amal's character has developed and changed over time. Shes acquired her character from her experiences." Lan was inspired to create the project after learning about people's lived experiences as refugees. The idea came from meeting people over the years who have made these extraordinary journeys in Europe," he said. Lan said he has met refugees from Turkey, Ukraine, Syria and other countries. They are often people "looking for a place where they could protect their families" as they feel unsafe in their home country. A large number of refugees are children, hence the depiction of a young girl for the project. According to The Walk's website, half of all refugees are children, and half of those children have lost the opportunity for a formal education. Little Amal, a 12-foot-tall puppet of a 10-year-old Syrian refugee girl, bends down to hug people during the live art display in front of the Matrix Theatre company in southwest Detroit on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. Amal, which means hope in Arabic is a symbol for human rights and displaced people everywhere. "Amal represents all displaced communities around the world, particularly children," said Oseni. It was clear that this was a very strong mirror and people could interpret their stories through her as a medium that connects community and reconnects people to their humanity and the exercise of just sitting in each others stories and shared space and building that empathy muscle and making hope practice, essentially. The not-for-profit company The Walk Productions started The Amal Fund to provide support to refugee children. In partnership with the nonprofit organization Choose Love, which provides humanitarian aid to refugee populations across the world, the target goal for the fund is $5 million. Along with emergency provisions, donations will support the educational and training support for young refugees, helping to rebuild their future. "The walk is a celebration of art, hope, and shared humanity that aims to unite communities and refocus attention on the urgent needs of refugees, immigrants, and asylum seekers, and to highlight the rich cultures and contributions immigrants bring with them," the release said. Little Amal, a 12-foot-tall puppet of a 10-year-old Syrian refugee girl, traveled to Detroit as a symbol of displaced people across the globe and walked across the Bagley Pedestrian Bridge and stopped to greet a young Muslim girl in southwest Detroit on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. With each visit, Amal tells a unique story and interacts with the local community in different ways. One Detroit event, titled "Take a seat," took place at the Bagley Pedestrian Bridge and partnered with Sofa Stories, Detroit Public Theatre and Matrix Theatre Company. Starting near La Gloria Bakery, Little Amal, operated by three puppeteers, crossed the bridge with a large crowd following, before concluding at the Matrix Theatre Company. Along the way, Amal interacted with many people, including families of diverse backgrounds. At the end, the community broke out in song and dance. While this plot line showcased a happy ending, not all are quite as positively focused. Its important that we leave with hope, but stories can be very complicated too. As long as youre breathing, theres always a sense of optimism no matter how fleeting it might be and we always try to be honest about that," Oseni said. "We do want people to have a moment of contemplation, reflection, joy, and just running the gamut of human emotions." Oseni said one of the things she enjoys most about the tour is the reaction she sees from children, and she was pleasantly surprised when visiting Dearborn recently. Daria Nimbee, 26, of Detroit, holds headphones playing music for Little Amal to listen to during a free public art display in southwest Detroit on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. Amal is a 12-foot-tall puppet of a 10-year-old Syrian refugee girl who is traveling the globe to support displaced people everywhere and is a symbol of human rights. The Amal Fund with Choose Love supports displaced children across the world and accepts donations at chooselove.org/theamalfund That natural wonder and curiosity is really special to always see, and they welcome her like she is one of them which is pretty exciting," she said. "We were in Dearborn yesterday. There were over a thousand kids, and they were just screaming 'Amal, Amal,' they made signs. Its also seeing how the community reflects the creativity back and their investment in her finding a home is always special to hear when Im roaming through the crowds. Amal's journey across America began in Boston on Sept. 7 and will conclude in San Diego on Nov. 5. Over 100 free public events are offered to welcome her as she travels 6,000 miles to 40 differing locations. Amal's next stop is in Chicago. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Little Amal, 12-foot-tall puppet of refugee girl, visits Michigan Four months after a 2-year-old girl died from heat stroke in a Florida car, her father has been charged with manslaughter, the sheriffs office says. Deputies and paramedics were called to a Prosperity home May 16 by a woman who was in hysterics and unable to tell the dispatch what was happening, Holmes County Sheriff John Tate said in a May 17 news conference. The dispatcher called in a welfare check for the location of the call, Tate said, and the first deputy to arrive was met by a mother, 23, carrying a toddler who was unresponsive. Despite life-saving measures by the deputy and paramedics, the child was declared dead shortly after, Tate said. Paramedics took the body temperature of the little girl and found she was 107 degrees, according to the sheriff. The mother told deputies she had found her toddler in the house, but knowing the temperature of the child, Tate said investigators knew something wasnt adding up. Investigators took the mother and the toddlers father, 32, into custody and began interviews, the sheriff said. McClatchy News is not identifying the parents to protect the identity of their two children. The mother told investigators she had gotten off work around midnight and picked up the toddler and her 4-year-old child from their babysitter, Tate said. She drove home with the two children, and the toddler fell asleep, so the parents decided to leave her in the car and went inside their home, according to the sheriff. The parents fell asleep, Tate said, and didnt realize the kids were in the car until they woke up around 3 p.m. the next day. During the night, the 4-year-old had gotten out of the car and went inside, but the 2-year-old remained outside for a total of 14 hours, the sheriff said. The parents were charged with child neglect, possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia in May. The 4-year-old was taken into protective custody by the Department of Children and Families, according to the sheriffs office. The sheriff said he believes drug use played a part in the child being left in the car for that extent of time. On July 4, the childs mother was charged with aggravated manslaughter, according to court records obtained by WJHG. On Sept. 28, the sheriffs office announced an additional charge of aggravated manslaughter against the toddlers father. Prosperity is an unincorporated town about 115 miles west of Tallahassee. Hot car deaths More than 950 children have died in hot cars since 1998, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. About 40 children a year die from heatstroke, either because they were left or became trapped in a car, officials said. Thats about one child every 10 days killed in a hot car. Hot car deaths are most common in the summer, but they can happen at any time, according to the administration. The first vehicular heatstroke of the year typically happens in March. Leaving a window open is not enough temperatures inside the car can rise almost 20 degrees Fahrenheit within the first 10 minutes, even with a window cracked open, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. If you see a child alone in a vehicle, officials said you should make sure the child is responsive and if not, immediately call 911. Toddler found dead in hot car outside church preschool, Florida police say 1-year-old left in hot van at daycare dies, cops say. How did you forget my baby? 3-month-old dies after being left in hot car while mom was in clinic, Texas cops say Forgotten toddler dies in hot car after family returns from outing, Florida cops say Ahead of National Coffee Day, WalletHub released a report ranking the best coffee cities in the US. Cities were ranked on factors such as coffee shops per capita and the average cost of a cappuccino. San Francisco scored the highest, followed by Portland, Oregon, and Seattle, Washington. Americans love their coffee. In fact, people in the US consume a total of 491 million cups of coffee a day, the National Coffee Association reported. Ahead of National Coffee Day, which falls on September 29, personal-finance website WalletHub identified the best cities for coffee lovers in the US in 2023. Its report ranked the 100 most populated cities in the US based on 12 factors, including the number of coffee shops, cafes, and coffee houses per capita; the average price of a pack of coffee; the average spending on coffee per household; and the share of households that own coffee makers. Using these factors, it gave each city a score out of 100 for "coffee-lover friendliness," determining which cities are the best to get coffee. These 20 cities earned the highest scores in WalletHub's report. 20. Dallas, Texas Colleagues walk with coffee in Dallas, Texas. Kristi Blokhin/Shutterstock Dallas is the 20th best city for coffee lovers in the US, according to WalletHub's study, scoring ahead of other major cities in the state, like Houston (27th) and Fort Worth (33rd). Other Texas cities also fared well in WalletHub's data: Laredo and Arlington rank first and second, respectively, for the lowest-average price of a cappuccino. 19. Sacramento, California A view of Sacramento, California. Merge Digital Media LLC/Shutterstock Sacramento isn't the only Northern California city that loves coffee: Fremont and San Francisco tie for first for the highest average spending on coffee per household, according to WalletHub's data. San Jose follows close behind in third. 18. Los Angeles, California A man has breakfast and coffee in Los Angeles, California. Hayk_Shalunts/Shutterstock Among the 100 cities studied by WalletHub, Los Angeles has the fourth-highest percentage of adult coffee drinkers. 17. Boston, Massachusetts A woman drinks coffee in Boston, Massachusetts. 2p2play/Shutterstock Boston is the only city in Massachusetts included in WalletHub's list. It has the most doughnut shops per capita, alongside Philadelphia; Chicago; Fort Worth, Texas, and Orlando, Florida. 16. Denver, Colorado Denver, Colorado. f11photo/Shutterstock Denver is the 16th best city for coffee lovers in the US, and the top city in Colorado, according to WalletHub's ranking. 15. Long Beach, California Long Beach, California. Matt Gush/Shutterstock Long Beach is home to the highest average price of a cappuccino. Nearby Santa Ana has the highest percentage of adult coffee drinkers, according to WalletHub. 14. Atlanta, Georgia Atlanta, Georgia. Kevin Ruck/Shutterstock According to a 2021 report by Metro Atlanta CEO, Atlanta had 192 coffee shops and ranked sixth out of Georgia's most coffee-obsessed towns and cities, although it's the state's only city to make WalletHub's list. 13. Las Vegas, Nevada Las Vegas, Nevada. Sean Pavone/Shutterstock Las Vegas and North Las Vegas tied with San Francisco, Seattle, and Portland, Oregon, for most affordable coffee shops, coffee houses, and cafes rated more than 4.5 stars per capita. 12. Miami, Florida A woman enjoys a cup of coffee while looking at Miami from a balcony. xmrex-67/Shutterstock Miami has dropped positions since WalletHub's 2020 report, in which it ranked fifth. 11. San Diego, California A couple walks barefoot on the beach with coffee in hand in San Diego, California. Seyhan Ahen/Shutterstock The "coffee craze" in the city is alive and well, The San Diego Union-Tribune reported in April, noting that more than 850 coffee shops exist in San Diego County alone, according to visitcalifornia.com. Nearby cities of Riverside, California, and San Bernardino, California, rank fourth lowest for the average price of a cappuccino on WalletHub's list. 10. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Sean Pavone/Shutterstock Pittsburgh has the second-most coffee shops, coffee houses, and cafes per capita, only behind Orlando, Florida. 9. New Orleans, Louisiana A woman drinking coffee at a cafe in New Orleans, Louisiana. Kristi Blokhin/Shutterstock Tasting Table reported the first shipment of coffee arrived in New Orleans from Cuba in the 18th century. By the 1840s, New Orleans was the second-largest port for coffee in the country and has since become a key part of the international coffee trade, according to the report. 8. Oakland, California Coffee drinkers at a sidewalk cafe in the north Oakland neighborhood of Rockridge. cdrin/Shutterstock Oakland, California, lands on the top spot for most coffee and tea manufacturers per capita alongside Portland, Oregon, San Francisco, and Fremont, California. It is also the location of the fifth-highest average price per pack of coffee. 7. Austin, Texas A woman drinking coffee and looking at the Austin, Texas, skyline. William Matkin/Shutterstock Austin is the highest-ranked Texas city on WalletHub's list. In her "ultimate guide to Austin," Insider's Kirstie Renae recommended visitors check out Mozart's, "a favorite coffee shop and bakery that features live music and a patio with must-see views of Lake Austin." 6. Tampa, Florida Tampa, Florida. littlenySTOCK/Shutterstock Tampa, Florida, is ranked fifth for the most coffee shops, coffee houses, and cafes per capita. 5. Honolulu, Hawaii Man walking with coffee in Ala Wai Yacht Harbor in Honolulu on Oahu Island, Hawaii. AbElena/Shutterstock WalletHub reports that Honolulu is the city with the highest average price per pack of coffee. The city also ranks fourth for most coffee shops, coffee houses, and cafes per capita. 4. Orlando, Florida Orlando, Florida. Songquan Deng/Shutterstock Orlando, Florida, is the city with the second-lowest average price per pack of coffee, only behind Raleigh, North Carolina. 3. Seattle, Washington Casual neighborhood cafe catering to local residents of the Ballard, Seattle neighborhood. cdrin/Shutterstock Among the 100 largest US cities, Seattle has the most affordable coffee shops, coffee houses, and cafes rated more than 4.5 stars per capita, alongside Portland, Oregon; San Francisco; Las Vegas; and North Las Vegas, Nevada. 2. Portland, Oregon A woman in a coffee shop in Portland, Oregon. Gabriela Le/Shutterstock According to WalletHub, Portland, Oregon, shares the top spot for most coffee and tea manufacturers per capita with San Francisco; Oakland, California; and Fremont, California. 1. San Francisco, California Woman drinking coffee by the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California. Francisco V Machado/Shutterstock Ranking No. 1 overall, San Francisco ties for first in the highest average spending on coffee per household, alongside Fremont, California. Read the original article on Insider An arrest on gun possession charges in Queens, New York, in November 2021 has led the Federal Bureau of Investigation to a pedophilic, Satanist extortion cult that has victimized dozens if not hundreds of minors, according to law enforcement documents, court records and sources with knowledge of the investigation. Law enforcement discovered the organization, known as 764 and a range of aliases, while investigating alarming social media posts made by Angel Almeida, a 23-year-old resident of Astoria, Queens. Related: Third person charged for infants death from fentanyl in New York City daycare On 12 September 2023, the FBI issued a public warning about 764, noting the group is deliberately targeting minor victims on publicly available messaging platforms to extort them into recording or livestreaming acts of self-harm and producing child sexual abuse material. The advisory is the first formal mention of 764 by any American law enforcement agency. The group appears to target children between the ages of eight and 17, the advisory notes, and particularly focuses on young people of color, youth identifying as LGBTQ+ or youth who struggle with mental health issues. Researchers familiar with 764 indicate the groups members cultivate ties with minors through a wide range of platforms: either in wildly popular games like Roblox or gaming communications platforms like Discord and Twitch, as well as curated playlists on the streaming service SoundCloud. The groups main form of communication is on Telegram, which has long been the platform of choice for many far-right extremists. Members use threats, blackmail and manipulation to get youth to record videos showing acts of self-harm, animal cruelty, sexual acts and even suicide, the authorities warn. The footage is then circulated among members to extort victims further and exert control over them. In the groups channels, members share violent gore videos depicting torture, lethal violence and other such acts, in an effort to desensitize viewers to acts of ultra violence. The key motivators for the group, according to authorities, is to gain notoriety and rise in status within their group. Documents and sources familiar with 764 indicate the group is an offshoot of the Order of Nine Angles (O9A), a violent, subversive amalgam of esoteric Hitler worship, Satanism and Wiccan tenets that American authorities recognize as a terrorist ideology and that has been connected with murders and attempted terrorist attacks in countries including the US, Britain, Germany, Canada and Russia. Sources with knowledge of investigations into 764 indicate the group has a network of a couple thousand participants and hundreds of highly active members who generate and disseminate the bulk of the child pornography and gore videos found in the groups channels on Telegram, Discord and more obscure platforms like Matrix. Like many online-based extremist organizations, 764 involves people around the world, including people in the UK and Germany. A German teenager who is accused of murdering his foster family in Romania is suspected of participating in 764, according to reporting from Der Spiegel and Romanian outlet Libertatea. The FBI was directed to Almeida by an anonymous tipster flagging his social media accounts, which contained images of violence against children and violence against animals. In one of the posts, Almeida expressed support for Dylann Roof, the white supremacist who massacred African American churchgoers in Charleston in 2015. Another showed him toting a shotgun while shirtless, and wearing a skull mask and crossed bandoliers of rifle ammunition across his chest with a flag in the background featuring an Order of Nine Angles symbol. While searching Almeidas apartment in New York, investigators recovered a 9mm handgun, bandoliers of rifle ammunition, books pertaining to the Order of Nine Angles, and a flag bearing the insignia of an American O9A offshoot, the Tempel ov Blood, according to a November 2021 detention memorandum filed by federal prosecutors. The most telling item was an O9A blood covenant featuring a blood-smeared drawing of a hooded figure with glowing red eyes surrounded with sigils for four O9A deities and the caption Vindex, Nythra, Satan and Abatu. At the bottom of the page is an oath: A covenant signed in blood. May the DEVIL walk with you always SATANAE MANIBUS (by Satans Hand in Latin). Similar indicia have been found in possession of O9A-influenced killers in Britain and Canada. Almeida, who had served an 18-month sentence in Florida for third degree burglary in 2018, was arrested for being a felon in possession of a firearm and detained in Brooklyns metropolitan detention center. In February 2023, federal prosecutors in the eastern district of New York filed a superseding indictment tacking on child pornography and child exploitation charges related to his activities in 764 and the hundreds of thousands of digital files recovered from four separate devices in his apartment. In the new charges, prosecutors allege Almeida coerced a teenage girl into having sexual relations with an older man and convinced another girl to cut herself, record the act on camera and send it to him. Almeida was deemed fit for trial earlier this month, despite repeated violent behavior in the court room, including attempts to attack a justice department staffer in the audience and his own court-appointed counsel on separate occasions in June and September. His court-appointed counsel the fourth attorney who has represented Almeida since his arrest in 2021 did not respond to requests for comment about the allegations against his client. The trial is currently scheduled for 4 December. If convicted, Almeida faces a potential maximum of life in federal prison. In the US, call or text the Childhelp abuse hotline on 800-422-4453 or visit their website for more resources and to report child abuse or DM for help. For adult survivors of child abuse, help is available at ascasupport.org. In the UK, the NSPCC offers support to children on 0800 1111, and adults concerned about a child on 0808 800 5000. The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (Napac) offers support for adult survivors on 0808 801 0331. In Australia, children, young adults, parents and teachers can contact the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, or Bravehearts on 1800 272 831, and adult survivors can contact Blue Knot Foundation on 1300 657 380. Other sources of help can be found at Child Helplines International A U.S. Congressman is calling for hearings into Social Security overpayments following reports by 25 Investigates and its partner news organizations. 25 Investigates collaborated with sister stations in seven states, and KFF Health News to discover the government is clawing back $21 billion in benefits paid out by the Social Security Administration. Overpayments can occur when people receiving supplemental income for disability or survivor benefits get a better paying job, more hours at work or a little extra money in the bank. The extra money can flow for years before overpayments are discovered. Sampling data contained in a prior audit suggests as many as millions of people could be impacted, but the Social Security Administration refuses to disclose how many people are impacted by the overpayments, more than a year after that data was requested. WHERE AM I GOING TO GET IT FROM? Most overpayments involve the Supplemental Security Income program, which helps low-income people with disabilities, who are blind, or 65 or older. Individual Supplemental Security Income recipients are not allowed to have more than $2,000 in assets. 25 Investigates has heard from people all over New England and the Northeast who owe for overpayments including Melissa Evans from Sutton. Evans told 25 Investigates that she and her two kids began receiving survivor benefits after her husband of 13 years died unexpectedly. He passed away on February 4th, 2020, Evans said. So right before COVID. He died of a heart attack at home alone. And I found him. Evans showed 25 Investigates a letter she received from Social Security in June of this year, notifying her that she earned too much money as a full time daycare administrator during the first half of 2022. She says Social Security is now holding her payments until roughly $3,700 is paid back. Its now a year later and theyre just now saying: Hey, you owe us, she said. With everything going up in price, electricity, food and everything, where am I going to get it from? CALL FOR HEARINGS In an interview, Rep. Mike Carey, Republican from Ohio on the Social Security subcommittee on the House side, called for congressional hearings. He said his office has received numerous calls from constituents dealing with overpayments and that every member of Congress has gotten calls on the issue. They werent trying to game the system, they were just playing by the rules, Carey said. And its very unfortunate. And I dont want anybody to ever be in that situation again. So thats why I think we need to have a hearing. We need to come to grips with where we are right now, find out what the problems are and fix the problems. The administration openly admits that staffing and funding constraints are impacting service. The Social Security Administration said families are allowed to appeal overpayment bills if they think its an error or it wasnt their fault. If the amount creates too much of a hardship, recipients can also request a waiver or payment plan. Carey said the hearing could shed light on answers that the Social Security Administration refuses to share publicly. And if theyre not telling you, I can assure you thats a question that Im going to ask in a hearing, because I know the number has to be staggering, Carey said. Theyre receiving government money, He added. Their government employees, and they should give the answers to the American public. I mean, if were running into this after district after district after district, we really need to know how many people are affected. The AARP has said that trouble dealing with SSA is the number one kind of call they get from members: numbering thousands a year. SSA employee union president Jessica LaPointe also welcomed congressional hearings into the impact of decades of underfunding. We cant address problems if we dont face them head on, LaPointe said, adding: Were here to help the American people deal with their overpayments timely, but we do not have the resources that we need to address the problem, and that is on Congress to fix. Its a moral imperative that we fix the situation and its on Congress right now to do that, she said. They certainly can get the information from the agency if they press them And if Congress refuses to fix it, then the constituents of lawmakers need to hold them accountable. More Lawmakers Respond Our stories have also gotten the attention of several other members of Congress. Sen. Maggie Hassan, a Democrat of New Hampshire, said: These reports make clear the extreme financial hardship that some people face when required to quickly correct a social security overpayment. And U.S. Rep. John Larson, a Democrat from Connecticut, said, There has to be some kind of fair agreement that can be reached. But this was not the individuals fault. This was governments fault. As 25 Investigates reported last week, Sen. Sherrod Brown, an Ohio Democrat, has reintroduced legislation that would raise the asset limit for certain individual recipients from $2,000 to $10,000. That would prevent some, but not all, overpayments from happening. Its pretty simple, Brown said. This law hasnt been changed for 40 years. The asset level has been $2,000. Recipients also have a duty to immediately report any changes in their finances. But as Evans explains, thats easier said than done. When you call them, youre on hold for hours, Evans said. And I dont have hours to just stay on hold. Then you lose the call, and no one calls you back. Find other ways than just taking someones check, Evans said. I mean, Im not the only one. 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 Osvalgo Montilla, 57, got off a charter bus in Chicagos West Loop Wednesday afternoon after trekking thousands of miles from Venezuela, thinking about his wife of 25 years who was in a detention facility in Del Rio, Texas. Montilla, a pharmacist in his home country with three grown children, had traveled to the United States and sat on a bus for 20 hours. But he was most worried about his wife, who he hadnt seen in five days. When the couple entered the U.S. on Sept. 22, his wife, like thousands of other migrants, was arbitrarily selected to be put in a detention facility. Here there is employment. I want to grow economically and personally, he said in Spanish. But my biggest worry is finding my wife. He wasnt sure when or how he would reconnect with her. Montilla is just one of the hundreds of new migrants who have arrived in Chicago in the past week with an uncertain future, as the number of asylum-seekers has surpassed 15,000 with the arrival of 27 buses since Saturday, including seven on Wednesday. With the city running out of room to house them as thousands sleep on police station floors and at airports awaiting shelter placement Mayor Brandon Johnson on Wednesday defended his administrations decision to contract with a private security firm to help place the new asylum-seekers in base camps before winter. What started as a political stunt by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott in an effort to criticize the nations immigration policies and relieve what he says are overburdened border towns in his state, has turned into a full-blown crisis for Chicago and other sanctuary cities, with volunteers scrambling to step up and fill in the gaps where the government cant. New York has seen surging numbers sent by the Texas governor, overwhelming the citys homeless shelter system. Denver has resorted to buying one-way Greyhound and Amtrak tickets to other cities for recent arrivals. While the number of buses sent to Chicago by Abbott has ebbed and flowed over the past year, the two buses that arrived from El Paso, Texas, over the weekend the first from that city since December 2022 could indicate that border crossings are at one of the highest rates in recent history and the city could see an increase in buses in the coming weeks. Why cant we send 1,000 people to Chicago? asked Ruben Garcia, director of Annunciation House, a migrant shelter in El Paso, Texas, where numbers of migrants are also soaring. Obviously Chicago isnt equipped, but we need to rise to the occasion. We should be prepared for whatever comes our way. With resources strained in Texas, individuals such as Montilla are receiving all-expenses-paid tickets from the emergency departments in border cities Del Rio, Eagle Pass, El Paso, Laredo, Brownsville, McAllen to sanctuary cities. Catholic Charities in San Antonio are sending planes full of migrants to OHare International Airport. With nowhere to put new arrivals, Johnson on Wednesday defended his administrations decision to contract with a private security firm to help place them in base camps despite the company attracting controversy related to its handling of migrants elsewhere. Addressing reporters after a special City Council meeting, the mayor said we will never tolerate the violation of anyones human rights in his first public comments on the one-year agreement with GardaWorld Federal Services and its subsidiary Aegis Defense Services signed Sept. 12. My administration has had very thorough conversations with GardaWorld, Johnson said. And so, all those allegations that have been presented, I take into consideration all of those dynamics. The mayor did not answer another question about the deadline to move migrants out of Chicago police stations as winter looms, though he did say, Were moving migrants into brick-and-mortar and at a rate that is expedited. We are a sanctuary state. We are a sanctuary county, a sanctuary city, Johnson said. You know, this is a dynamic that were all working to solve. And you know, the political dynamics that have provoked this moment, its incumbent upon all of us to continue our work and the sacrifices that we all have to make to ensure that families get a chance to resettle and really experience comfort here. As Johnson addressed reporters, three buses of about 50 people each pulled up to the loading zone on a street by the Greyhound bus station downtown. Migrants carrying backpacks and trash bags, pregnant women and little girls wearing Crocs stepped off, walking onto Chicagos streets for the first time. One bus came from Del Rio, one from El Paso, and one from Laredo. Some migrants with familial connections in Chicago got into vans and left. They were handed bags of mini-cookies. Who needs a cellphone to make a call? asked a city employee. Most, however, boarded school buses provided by the city that were parked nearby. The migrants would be dropped off at police stations, where they would wait for placement in one of the 21 city-run shelters. Elianny Pina, mother of two from Venezuela, watched her 4-year-old son Mateo play on a curb in the bus unloading zone, after getting off a bus from Laredo. Her family had trekked across the Darien Gap and ridden on La Bestia, a perilous freight train through Mexico. Pina has two cousins in Chicago. She said shes heard its a great city for sports, and hopes its large Spanish-speaking population will make it easier for her to find work. I came here for the future of my sons above all, she said in Spanish. Meanwhile, Montilla paced up and down on the sidewalk, waiting to board the yellow school bus to spend the night at a police station. Venezuela used to be such a rich country in oil, tourism, health care, everything, he said. Chicago reminds me of a Venezuela of the past. Chicago Tribunes Laura Rodriguez Presa contributed. ayin@chicagotribune.com nsalzman@chicagotribune.com North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley participate in the debate. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) Seven Republican candidates took the stage Wednesday evening for the partys second presidential debate. There was one notable exception at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif.: Former President Donald Trump , who again skipped the debate. Trump also avoided last months debate in Milwaukee and continues to hold a dominating position in the GOP race. Read more on Yahoo News: Our live coverage has concluded. Check out Yahoo News for the latest on the race, and see the blog below for a recap and analysis of Wednesday night's debate. Nearly 160 years ago, Auguste Mariette was exploring the Western Desert in Egypt when he came across a partially uncovered mastaba or massive tomb belonging to an ancient official in the sand. At the time, Mariette successfully excavated an intricately decorated false door and supportive beam, but before he could make anymore progress, the mastaba was lost to the deserts sand. Since then, the artifacts have been kept at The British Museum, and researchers have learned the tomb belonged to Ptahshepses who is believed to be the first non-royal in Eyptian history who married a royal. Now, Czech archaeologists have rediscovered Ptahshepsess tomb after years of searching, according to a Sept. 25 Facebook post from the Czech Institute of Egyptology at Charles University in Prague. The tomb of a man who changed the course of Egyptian history has thus been rediscovered, representing one of the expeditions greatest recent discoveries, Miroslav Barta, head of research, said in the post. The research is still ongoing, and further discoveries will likely be made to shed new light on his family and times. Archaeologists said the tomb, which dates to about the end of the 25th century B.C., is about 138 feet long, 72 feet wide and 13 feet tall. Inside, they discovered a well-preserved chapel, painted decorations, two rooms for statues and a long corridor. There was also a burial chamber inside the mastaba, according to researchers. Although the chamber was looted during ancient times, it still contained parts of the original burial, including pottery, remains of offerings and mummified fish. Experts also discovered Ptahshepsess sarcophagus, which still held his complete mummy lying on his back. Analysis of the mummy revealed the official lived to be 65 years old, much older than expected during that time period. The mastaba was discovered between Abusir and Saqqara, pyramid fields south of Cairo. Shimmering item in dirt turns out to be rare 1,200-year-old treasure in Norway. See it 1,500-year-old palace-like home was hidden by jungle foliage until now. Take a look 2,000-year-old grave site teeming with treasures discovered in Germany. See them Wildlife officials pulled up a behemoth catch while surveying waters between Connecticut and Long Island, New York, photos show. While out on the Long Island Sound, a crew caught a 400-pound roughtail stingray, along with a large predatory fish called a cobia, according to a Thursday, Sept. 28, Facebook post from Connecticut Fish and Wildlife. The department shared photos of both animals, wowing people in the comments with their size. Our Long Island Sound Trawl Survey crew never knows what they might see on a given day out on the Sound yesterday was a stand-out example, the post says. In the photo, the roughtail stingray was lying on its ventral side, which means its belly was facing up, the post says. The roughtail stingray, which has a venomous barb like most other rays, was 6 feet long and 5 feet wide, the post says. The maximum size of roughtail stingrays is about 7 feet, according to field guide Sharks and Rays. Despite their dangerous tail, roughtail stingrays are gentle giants, the post says, and avoid shallow areas where people typically swim. Stingrays like the one caught Wednesday, Sept. 27, are found all down the Atlantic coast from New England to Florida, wildlife officials say, but a sighting in the Long Island Sound is relatively rare. They prefer temperate and tropical seas, according to Sharks and Rays. Rather than attempt to roll the animal over, our crew quickly took some measurements and immediately returned the ray to the water to watch it swim away alive and well, wildlife officials said in the post. The crews other catch of the day was the cobia, which can grow up to 6 feet long, the post says. They are typically most abundant south of the Chesapeake Bay, the post says, but climate change has caused them to be an increasingly common visitor to Long Island Sound. Cobia are known to eat crabs, shrimp, squid and other small fish, according to the Chesapeake Bay Program. They also are considered to somewhat aggressive when an angler reels them in, as they typically fight back. The two catches were a part of the Long Island Sound Trawl Survey, which aims to measure the abundance and distribution of finfish, squid and other macro-invertebrates in the body of water, according to the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection. Elusive, clawed creature seen in NC for first time. Be on the lookout, experts say Burrowing blue creature with pinchers found on TN college campus may be a new species Watch phenomenal stampede of sea creatures in California. One for the books Hiking is a great way to stay active and enjoy the beautiful natural landscapes across the US. Experienced hikers should visit Sky Rock Hike, Mount Rose Trail, Mount Si, or Bar Trail. For a more leisurely stroll, Swamp Rabbit Trail and Forest Park are great for beginners. For 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, check out Spy Rock Hike. There a beautiful mountain views all around. iStock / kellyvandellen You'll have to hike up the rocky outlook, but you'll be rewarded with an unobstructed view of the serene landscape. This 3.1-mile hike is a popular one, so head there during the week for smaller crowds. Blodgett Canyon in western Montana is sure to have some vibrant colors. You can camp overnight in Blodgett Canyon. Nicholas Courtney/Shutterstock For a truly magical experience, plan for an overnight in Blodgett Canyon, located in the Bitterroot Mountains. If you're more interested in a day trip, you can take the Blodgett Canyon Overlook Trail, which is under 2 miles and offers an amazing view of the gorgeous canyon. In Vermont, head to the Healdville Trail which ascends Okemo State Forest. Okemo State Forest is full of panoramic views. Jon Puhalla/Shutterstock On this 3-mile hike, you'll travel along a lovely, relaxing stream, venture through hardwood glades, and eventually climb the final mile through a forest of evergreens. If that weren't enough, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas throughout. At the end of the trail, there is a watchtower you can climb for 360-degree views of the surrounding mountain ranges. See Tahoe like a local on the Mount Rose Trail. The hike provides great views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Written In Silver Visuals/Shutterstock What makes this hike particularly special is that you not only get to take in the splendor of Lake Tahoe, but also you'll get views of Reno and the surrounding Sierra Nevadas. The summit is the highest peak on the north side of the lake, and it is listed as one of Tahoe Weekly's top 20 fall adventures. You'll work for these views, with nearly 11 miles of trail and an elevation gain of 2,400 feet. Go underground at Mammoth Cave National Park. It's the longest-known underground cave system. Shutterstock Just outside of Bowling Green, Kentucky, you'll find the longest known underground cave system in the world. There are plenty of underground adventures to be had, and above ground, you'll find plenty of hiking. The area offers a plethora of trails, but the Sal Hollow Trail is one of the best in the park. Michigan's Porcupine Mountains State Park Escarpment Trail is Instagram-famous. The trail is a difficult 4.4-mile hike. John McCormick/Shutterstock Although the trail is less than 5 miles, don't let that fool you elevation changes make this a challenging, yet rewarding hike. You'll find multiple lookouts along the way, and you'll wander through pine and oak trees, which are red in the fall. Don't forget to stop and take a picture of the Lake of the Clouds to post after your hike. Follow the Ice Age National Scenic Trail in Wisconsin to view the site of the last Ice Age. The trail is over 1,000 miles long. National Park Service Meander through untouched wilderness, rolling farmlands, and public parks on this trail. The hike is 1,200 miles long, but for a more comfortable day trip, check out the section near Elkhart Lake called LaBudde Creek, which is full of natural history. Embark on a naturalist-guided hike at Ridges Sanctuary in Wisconsin. The sanctuary offers a variety of landscapes. Matt Sampson Photography/Shutterstock Want to learn more about the flora and fauna you're passing? While you can enjoy non-guided hikes, you'll get a lot out of walking with a naturalist in Wisconsin's oldest nonprofit nature preserve. The spot is a designated State Natural Area, an Audubon Important Bird Area, and a National Natural Landmark, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The conifer forest meets the beach, along with a variety of plants, birds, and even endangered species. The Vista and Devil's Oven via Orange Trail Loop is a Connecticut gem. This hike has great fall foliage. Shutterstock Located in Devil's Hopyard State Park in East Haddam, this 2.2-mile hike allows you to take in the surrounding scenery. Along the trail, you'll discover a lake, a cave, and a stunning waterfall. Black Rock Mountain, Georgia's highest state park, has two trails. Black Rock Mountain is the highest park in Georgia. JayL/Shutterstock Black Rock Mountain is Georgia's highest state park at an altitude of 3,640 feet. For a short, moderate hike, plan on doing the 2.2-mile Tennessee Rock Trail. If you'd rather go for an all-day challenge, the James E. Edmonds Backcountry Trail clocks in at 7.2 miles. For some serious Pacific Northwest vibes, explore Seattle's Mount Si. It's a popular hike in the Pacific Northwest. annaleks/Shutterstock Just 30 miles east of the city, you can challenge yourself on this 8-mile out-and-back trail. Approximately 100,000 people hike it each year, making it an incredibly popular Pacific Northwest hike. Enjoy hiking on the trail that's home to Georgia's tallest waterfall. Enjoy the picturesque views of the waterfall. Kelly vanDellen/Shutterstock Hope Oldham, one of REI's outdoor school senior instructors in Atlanta, told Insider that Amicalola Falls Trail is one of her favorite day hikes in the area. The water cascades down from 729 feet, and those views have made it one of the state's most popular parks. Oldham warned that the hike is strenuous and has many stairs, but if you're up for the challenge it's worth it. "It's Georgia's tallest waterfall, and the power you feel by standing at the base is truly humbling," she told Insider. Don't miss the Overlook Mountain Trail in the Catskills for amazing views of the Hudson Valley. The trail is fairly easy to follow. katlynwelbs/Shutterstock Close to Woodstock, New York, this is the southernmost peak of the Catskill Escarpment. "Hiking Overlook Mountain was breathtakingly beautiful. The hike is easy and the path is well-marked. Close to the top, you will find some interesting ruins of an old hotel, and at the top of the mountain, there is a fire tower," blogger Anisa Alhilali of Two Traveling Texans told Insider. You don't even have to leave the city to experience the wonders of St. Louis' Forest Park. This is one of America's best public parks. JByard/ iStock Right in St. Louis City, you'll find a beloved natural space with 45,000 trees and other flora. The park is actually bigger than New York City's Central Park, and it's home to many outdoor attractions, including walking and biking paths. The Monon Trail in Indiana makes for an amazing, all-ages hike. The path gives hiking an urban twist. Lindasj22/Shutterstock Because it's paved and mostly flat, anyone can enjoy this scenic path in Hamilton County, Indiana. Along the 20-plus mile route, you'll encounter family-friendly breweries and local spots to eat or enjoy a coffee. Experience the same view that inspired the words to "America the Beautiful" in Colorado. It's best to spend a few days hiking the trail. John Hoffman/Shutterstock For a bit of a challenge, hike the Barr Trail to the summit of Pikes Peak. Because it's labeled a difficult hike one which includes 7,500 feet of elevation gain and over 12 miles to the peak it's recommended to split the hike into two days. Overnight hikers can spend a night at Barr Camp. At the top of the hike, you'll look out over the same mountain range views that inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write the words to "America the Beautiful," according to the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park near Memphis, Tennessee, has more than 20 miles of trails winding through it. There is plenty of wildlife in the park. Bonita R. Cheshier/Shutterstock With over 12,000 acres, you'll never get bored in this park. For a moderate loop hike that's under 4 miles, the Woodland Trail is ideal. If you'd prefer something longer, the 7.4-mile Chickasaw Bluff Trail will allow you to take in the scenery for even longer. If biking or horseback riding is more what you're looking for, you can also find it in the state park. Hike around the Lubbock Lake Landmark, a 336-acre archaeological and natural history preserve in West Texas. There are a few different trails on the property. Courtesy of Lubbock Economic Development Alliance & Visit Lubbock Lubbock Lake Landmark is an important archaeological site. Here you'll discover the Yellowhorse Draw Trail, which is particularly beautiful when the trees start to change in the fall. If you're looking for a more informative adventure, the site also allows visitors to watch active archeological digs. Just 30 miles outside of Washington DC, you'll find a weekend escape in Prince William Forest Park. You can camp in cabins in Prince William Forest Park. Sarina P/Shutterstock You don't have to go far out of the city to enjoy a weekend of outdoor fun. The South Valley Trail runs right by the Quantico Creek, offering visitors picturesque waterfalls, tree-lined paths, and scenic bridges to explore. Pack up your bags and tent and plan to stay at one of the many campsites along the way, or opt for a historic cabin if you'd prefer. Take in the beauty of North Carolina's Beech Mountains with the Emerald Outback Trail System. You can enjoy the scenic 7-mile hike. KevinClarkArt/Shutterstock Here, you'll encounter 7 miles of treks that are designed to accommodate all experience levels. Whether you're wanting a leisurely afternoon stroll or something more intense, you'll find it there. Trails are marked with green for beginner routes, blue for intermediate routes, and black for advanced trails. All the hikes offer the chance to trek through lush forests and take in some gorgeous views at the lookout points. Turkey Mountain Trail rests on the west bank of the Arkansas River. The trail goes along the Arkansas River. Kenyon Gerbrandt/Shutterstock This 300-acre wilderness area is shrouded in trees, but you can still enjoy the large ponds and river along the route. After an ample ascent, you'll find scenic views from the summit, which rises 300 feet above the Arkansas River. The Yellow Trail is a 3.7-mile hike that includes many overhangs to stop and take in the stunning views. For a short and vigorous hike, check out the Waterrock Knob Trail in North Carolina. There are scenic overlooks throughout the hike. Chansak Joe/Shutterstock You'll gain over 6,000 feet in elevation during the 1.2-mile round-trip hike, but the summit will make it all worth it. The top of the hike provides sweeping panoramic views. For an added challenge, with an even greater reward, strap a chair to you back so that you can sit, relax, and watch the sunrise or sunset from the peak. Dubbed "The Niagara of Pennsylvania," Bushkill Falls is a beautiful hike. There are several trails throughout the park. Songquan Deng/Shutterstock You'll find a few trails within the park which vary in difficulty. Hikers of all levels will love the Red Trail to Bridal Veils Falls. The 1.4-mile loop features a waterfall and plenty of lively flora. Because it's nestled in the woods of the Poconos, there are plenty of things to do near the trail as well. City slickers can escape to Lehigh Valley for the hike in Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. The park offers a moderate, 8-mile hike. Zack Frank/Shutterstock Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, is tucked into the rolling mountains of the countryside, and it's a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The Hawk Mountain Sanctuary offers 8 miles of easy-to-moderate trails. Throughout the hikes, visitors can enjoy views of vistas and soaring raptors (birds of prey). Enjoy views of Mount Hood while trekking the Pittock Mansion Hike. The moderate hike passes by a beautiful mansion. ARTYOORAN/Shutterstock Seth Buchwalter, an outdoor enthusiast who lives in Portland, Oregon, recommended this 5-mile round-trip hike that begins just outside of the city. It's a moderate trail, and you can expect an elevation gain of 950 feet. "It starts relatively flat, winding, down and around a beautiful creek, passing an old stone house, before kicking in the vertical gain a bit," he told Insider. "Nearing the top, you'll experience a few switchbacks that are intense, but still manageable for the novice hiker." Hike some of the famed Colorado Trail in Durango. The area is also popular for skiing in the winter. iStock / KaraGrubis In Colorado's southwestern corner, you can hike Junction Creek to Gudy's Rest. There are over 300 miles of trails in the area, but this is an excellent option for beginners. In total, it's 8 miles long, although there's a perfect stopping point at a wooden footbridge 5 miles in if you'd prefer something shorter. The hike offers outstanding views of the San Juan Mountains. The Lincoln Woods Trail in New Hampshire is a great hike for those who want to explore the forest. You can take a weekend trip to the park. Catharine Britt/Shutterstock Although this moderate hike can be completed in a day, there are also two campsites along the path for those who want to make a weekend out of it. "The good thing about it or bad, depending on what you are looking for is that the trail is flat and protected, so the conditions will be the same throughout your hike. Even though it is 9.8 miles long, the fact that it is pretty flat makes it easy for a family to do if they are willing to spend the whole day," Trevor Peschek, a hiking enthusiast who works for Wanderu, told Insider. He also said that you'll encounter two beautiful waterfalls, Franconia Falls and Thirteen Falls, along the path. Crystal Lake Trail in Mono County, California, combines views and brews. The 3-mile hike is dog-friendly. Michael Schober/Shutterstock This 3-mile, dog-friendly hike gains 750 feet in elevation, and the reward is views of Lake George, Crystal Crag, and Crystal Lake. Mono County is also home to other trails if you're looking to spend more time there, but Crystal Lake Trail offers something extra special: local breweries like Black Doubt Brewing Co., Mammoth Brewing Co., and Shelter Distilling are located close to the path for a post-hike refreshment. Experience some of the Appalachian Trail at Hay Rock Overlook Trail in Virginia. There are several scenic hikes on the Appalachian Trail. Jaminnbenji/Shutterstock The Appalachian Trail stretches for nearly 2,200 miles from Maine to Georgia, but this section in Virginia is a great spot to take in the scenic views of Roanoke Valley. The Hay Rock Overlook Trail hike is moderately difficult at around 8.5 miles, so it makes for the perfect challenging day hike with breathtaking surroundings. If you're exploring the wine country of Finger Lakes, New York, don't miss Watkins Glen State Park. The 19 waterfalls make this park incredible. Ultima_Gaina/ iStock The natural beauty of this region is truly spellbinding, and you can enjoy 19 cascading waterfalls along the trail. The park offers an easy to moderate hike with lots of stairs on most of the paths. Watkins Glen State Park was also selected from more than 6,000 state parks across the nation as a nominee in the USA Today Readers' Choice Poll for best state park in the United States in 2015 and came in third place overall. Immerse yourself for a few days on the Laurel Highlands hiking trail. The trail is suitable for beginners. Kathy D. Reasor/Shutterstock If you're looking for a multi-day, beginner-friendly hike, then this one in southwestern Pennsylvania is a perfect choice. The 70-mile trail offers overnight areas every 8 to 10 miles, so you can move at a comfortable pace and recharge. The whole trail features towering trees, but some prime viewing spots include Beam Rocks, Spruce Run, and Laurel Summit. Hike the tree-lined river banks on the Swamp Rabbit Trail in Greenville, South Carolina. The trail has both nature and charming city feels. Cvandyke/ Shutterstock This 22-mile mixed-use trail runs right through downtown Greenville, so you get the best of both worlds: nature at its finest and a charming southern city. One of the stars of the trail is an iconic beech tree with exposed roots and a canopy that towers 100 feet in the air. The trail also leads to Falls Park on the Reedy, an urban park with a suspension bridge where you can get unobstructed views of the Reedy River waterfalls. Climb to the top of Mount Beacon in Hudson Valley, NY. The path is full of stairs and switchbacks. DeLeon VOT/Shutterstock There are numerous lookout points as you climb Mount Beacon, so there are options on how long the hike goes. If the 200 stairs and steep switchbacks don't tire you out too much, once you've passed a clifftop you can venture even further to a rebuilt fire tower. Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with a panoramic view stretching from the Hudson Highlands to the Catskill Mountains. Get the adrenaline pumping on the Precipice Trail at Acadia National Park in Maine. The trail is for advanced hikers. Jon Bilous/Shutterstock Any trail with "precipice" in its name is sure to get the blood pumping. Tava Hoag, a former editor at TravelPirates, told Insider it's not for anyone who's afraid of heights. In fact, she conquered her own fear while hiking it. "It is a very steep out and back trail where you have to use iron rungs and small ledges to get to the top of Champlain Mountain," she told Insider. Expect to take about three hours on the 1.4-mile, strenuous hike. Hike up to Conundrum Hot Springs and relax in the naturally warm waters. Permits are required hiking the trail and entering the pool. Kris Wiktor/ Shutterstock Nothing is better than hiking along the stunning Elk Mountains and ending your journey with a dip in a hot spring. "The views are stunning along the whole hike, but especially from the 102-degree pool," Paul Ronto, Content Director at RunRepeat and avid outdoorsmen, told Insider. He also advised that permits are required, so make sure to read how to get one before making the trek. The Coal Mines Trail brings you through some charming Washington towns. Roslyn, Washington, is on one end of the trail. Jaminnbenji/Shutterstock The Pacific Northwest is a particularly beautiful spot to hike during the fall months. "I love hiking in the Pacific Northwest because of all the fall colors. My favorite hike to see the fall leaves in the Coal Mines Trail in Snoqualmie," Alex Tran, an outdoor enthusiast and yoga instructor, told Insider. Near the trail is the Bavarian town of Leavenworth where there is an annual Oktoberfest, and it will also take you to the historic town of Roslyn. Experience all the beauty of nature with the backdrop of NYC's skyline on the Silver Mine Lake Trail. The trail has a view of fall foliage and Manhattan. Shutterstock The Silver Mine Lake Trail is just a quick train or cab ride away from New York City, offering the chance to escape the city without too much hassle. Nestled in Harriman State Park (which has over 200 miles of trails), this one takes you to the top of Black Mountain. Expect scenic vistas with the skyscrapers of Manhattan in the background along the way. The Savage Alpine Trail in Denali National Park is an unexpected fall adventure. The park is full of trails and wildlife. Galyna Andrushko / Shutterstock Jennifer Melroy, an author for Nation Park Obsessed, told Insider that this Alaskan hike is one of her favorites especially when the trees are changing. "I love hiking this trail in the fall for two reasons," she said. "The first is the fall colors in the tundra. The aspen trees have this amazing shade of gold which contrasts with the reds and pinks of the willow trees. Also, the blueberries are ripe and found all along the trail." It's a strenuous 8.2-mile round-trip hike through the national park with 1,400 feet of elevation gain. Get a killer workout on the Inner Basin Trail near Flagstaff, Arizona. This trail has noticeable elevation gain. Oralleff/ iStock Tucked in the Coconino National Forest, the Inner Basin Trail has clear markers and measures 3.9 miles round trip. "This is a moderate trail with a noticeable elevation gain that will leave even the most experienced hiker a little winded," Shawna Newman of Active Weekender, an adventure blog, told Insider. "The terrain itself is not challenging and the surrounding beauty makes it the perfect trail for snapping some photos." Journey on the diverse Flint Hills Trail in Kansas. It's the longest trail in the state. TommyBrison/Shutterstock From picturesque prairies to fresh farmland, the Flint Hills Trail offers a wide array of landscapes. It's also the longest and most diverse trail in Kansas, according to The Wichita Eagle. Although the flat landscape makes it a pretty easy hike, you can still challenge yourself by hiking all 117 miles of it which usually takes about eight or nine days to complete. Explore the Stanford Trail in Ohio's Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The trail is found in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Beth J. Harpaz/AP The Stanford Trail is just one of the many available hiking spots in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. If you're wanting an extra challenge, the hike meets up with the Brandywine Gorge Trail which offers you the option to extend your adventure. If getting outside is a priority, but you're concerned about mobility or have young ones in tow, the park also offers the option of riding along the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. Witness the fall monarch butterfly migration on the Eastern Lake Trail in South Walton, Florida. The trail is near Miramar beach. Ruth Peterkin/Shutterstock Every year, a monarch butterfly migration at the beginning of fall draws hikers seeking a unique outdoor experience. There are over 27 miles of trails in this area, and the relatively challenging 11-mile orange loop on the Eastern Lake Trail makes for a great workout. And after the hike, you can relax on the shores of the nearby Miramar beach. Check out the boardwalk at Big Bog State Recreation Area in Minnesota. The trail is wheelchair accessible. Jacob Boomsma/Shutterstock A boardwalk allows visitors to take in all the views of the 500-square mile peat bog. Wander through the stunted tamarack and spruce forest on the mile-long trail, and at the end, you'll be treated to a viewing platform, benches, and a binocular viewer. Since the trail is made of a raised boardwalk, it is accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and less-experienced hikers. Hike California's hidden gem, the Mount Eddy Trail in Shasta-Trinity National Forest. This hike will make you sweat. bfwhsm3/ Shutterstock This 10-mile round-trip hike has over 2,000 feet of elevation gain. Located in Siskiyou County, the northernmost region of California, the hike is one of the area's less-traveled trails, and it offers breathtaking views of Mount Shasta. After you hike, you can explore all the other outdoor activities that Shasta-Trinity National Forest has to offer. Take in the scenic views on Texas' East Trail in Lost Maples State Natural Area. This trail has beautiful fall colors. Becky Sheridan/ Shutterstock You'll find this 3-mile trail in the Lost Maples State Natural Area in Vanderpool, Texas. Marvel at the beauty of the area complete with bigtooth maples, bald cypress, and sycamore trees which reflect against sparkling waters. The park is specifically known for its stunning colors in the fall months. Hike New Mexico's highest peak on the Bull of the Woods trail. The mountaintops are snowy in the winter months. Roschetzky Photography/Shutterstock You won't find better views in New Mexico than atop Wheeler Peak in the Bull of the Woods Wilderness. At 14.5 miles, you can either make this an intense day trip or break up your hike with a night camping in the wilderness. Stroll along the river on the Chocolate Gulch Trail in Sun Valley, Idaho. The Sawtooth Mountains offer plenty of hiking opportunities. Steve Lagreca/Shutterstock Right in the Sawtooth Mountains, this 5-mile hike typically takes about half a day to complete. The trail begins on the banks of a river, and you'll eventually climb a peak to view the waters below. The trail is a great place to view wildlife, and it's also dog-friendly. Bird-lovers will want to check out Waggoner's Gap Hawk Watch in Landisburg, Pennsylvania. Hikers will get a great view of the eagles that fly through the park. Photo courtesy of the Cumberland Valley Visitors Bureau This one is ideal for people who want an easier trail that still gives them a chance to marvel at nature. Not only are the views outstanding, but also this is one of the largest concentrations of raptors in the US, with nearly 20,000 passing through each year. The bird migration combined with the full foliage makes it clear why the trail was named one of the top 10 hikes in Cumberland County by The Sentinel. Take in the astounding views on the Whitaker Point Trail in Arkansas. This spot in the Ozarks has lots of fall foliage. Hopeless Wanderer/ Shutterstock You'll find this 2.9-mile trail in the Upper Buffalo Wilderness Area of the Ozarks. The trail leads to Whitaker Point, also called Hawksbill Crag, which juts out about 100 feet above the forest floor. It's a highly photographed spot in Arkansas, and for a good reason you'll be able to peer out over the valley surrounding the Buffalo National River. This story was originally published on October 10, 2018, and most recently updated on September 28, 2023. Read more: Read the original article on Insider [Source] Five male suspects including one 17-year-old have been arrested in connection with a series of home invasion robberies that targeted Asian Americans in south Seattle in recent months. Background: At least 14 such robberies have been been reported to Seattle police since June. Most of the victims were elderly Asians. In one recent incident, the suspects broke into a home and woke up a senior couple at around 5 in the morning. They demanded money while holding them at gunpoint. Arrests: On Wednesday, Seattle police announced that they have arrested five suspects, which included one minor. Fourteen firearms, ammunition, currency and narcotics were recovered from five locations that were searched. More from NextShark: Purdue University's first Asian American president takes office amid controversy over Northwest chancellor Three others were taken into custody for other crimes. The seven male adults were booked into King County Jail, while the juvenile suspect was taken to Judge Patricia H. Clark Children and Family Justice Center. Seattle mayor reacts: Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell released a statement in response to the arrests. To AAPI communities who have faced a rise in fear, threats, and violence, and to any person who feels vulnerable in our city, know that my administration and our police service will continue working every day to create a Seattle where everyone can feel safe and be safe, he said in part. More from NextShark: 'You are going to die': former nurse pleads guilty to threats against VP Kamala Harris Whats next: Detectives are investigating whether more suspects are involved. They believe some incidents have not been reported. Meanwhile, the robbery suspects are expected to face other charges. Police are also determining whether the incidents were hate crimes. More from NextShark: Asian women in US financial sector say bamboo ceiling prevented their career advancement, study reveals Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark! 'We sympathize with the pain of the Ukrainian people': Chinese history professors pen anti-war open letter The Benton Franklin Health District gave failing grades to five restaurants and other food businesses in the Tri-Cities during food safety inspections from Sept. 18 to 22. The health districts food safety team gave passing grades on 34 inspections, including awarding 17 perfect scores. In the districts routine inspections, businesses or organizations that receive at least 35 points for the more serious red violations are required to have additional inspections and must meet a tougher standard on those. To pass followup inspections, they must have fewer than 25 red points and fewer than 10 red points for previous issues. Red violations are those most likely to cause food-borne illnesses, such as improper temperature control of food, lack of handwashing or bare-hand contact with foods. Blue violations are low risk factors related to the cleanliness and physical condition of an establishment. No notice is given before the inspections. Inspection results are posted online so residents can look up the status and the details of any violations of individual restaurants or check other businesses. Go to bit.ly/BFHDinspections. Click on the business name and then on the date of the inspection on the right half of the next page. Look for the Violations tab. Failed inspections Dominos Pizza, 4707 W. Clearwater Ave., Kennewick, Routine Sept. 19 (40 Red, 0 Blue) Notes: Food worker cards not 100%, improper hand washing, improperly disposing of potentially unsafe food. Double Dragon, 3107 W Clearwater Ave., Kennewick, Follow-up Sept. 18 (65 Red, 5 Blue) Notes: Lack of active managerial control, improper hot holding (<130F), room temperature storage or improper use of time as a control, improper cold holding (>45F). Smoovies Pasco Sport Complex, 6520 Home Run Road, Pasco, Routine Sept. 22 (40 Red, 0 Blue) Notes: Food worker cards not 100%, improper handwashing, inadequate handwashing facilities. SOI 705, 705 The Parkway, Richland, Routine Sept. 21 (45 Red, 5 Blue) Notes: Lack of active managerial control, improperly disposing of potentially unsafe food, improper cooling procedures, improper cold holding (42-45F). Tokyo Sushi & Teriyaki, 3617 Plaza Way, Kennewick, Follow-up Sept. 21 (60 Red, 0 Blue) Notes: Lack of active managerial control, food worker cards not 100%, improper cooling procedures, room temperature storage or improper use of time as a control. Passed inspections Captain Gray Elementary School, 1102 N. 10th Ave., Pasco, Routine Sept. 21 (0 Red, 0 Blue) Casa Mia, 607 George Washington Way, Richland, Follow-up Sept. 21 (0 Red, 0 Blue) Chipotle, 3631 Plaza Way, Kennewick, Routine Sept. 21 (10 Red, 0 Blue) Circle K, 1401 George Washington Way, Richland, Routine Sept. 21 (Food service 10 Red, 0 Blue) (Store 20 Red, 5 Blue) Daxs Bar & Grill, 1004 Lee Blvd., Richland, Routine Sept. 18 (15 Red, 20 Blue) Dutch Bros, 3918 Clearwater Ave., Kennewick, Routine Sept. 19 (5 Red, 0 Blue) Ellen Ochoa Middle School, 1801 E. Sheppard St., Pasco, Routine Sept. 20 (0 Red, 0 Blue) Finley Elementary School, 213504 E. Cougar Road, Kennewick, Routine Sept. 19 (0 Red, 5 Blue) Finley Middle School, 37208 S. Finley Road, Kennewick, Routine Sept. 19 (0 Red, 0 Blue) Flight Tap & Table, 502 Swift Blvd., Richland, Routine Sept. 19 (25 Red, 8 Blue) Frost Me Sweet, 710 The Parkway, Richland, Routine Sept. 21 (30 Red, 0 Blue) (Additional kitchen 0 Red, 0 Blue) Hermiston Melon Co. (Demo), Event, Follow-up Sept. 22 (0 Red, 0 Blue) Hot Tamales, Event, Routine Sept. 19 (0 Red, 0 Blue) Isaac Stevens Middle School, 1120 N. 22nd Ave., Pasco, Routine Sept. 22 (0 Red, 5 Blue) Longfellow Elementary School, 300 N. 8th Ave., Pasco, Routine Sept. 21 (0 Red, 0 Blue) Marie Curie STEM Elementary School, 715 N. California Ave., Pasco, Routine Sept. 19 (0 Red, 0 Blue) Moniker Bar, 702 The Parkway Richland, Routine Sept. 21 (5 Red, 5 Blue) Pasco High School, 1108 N. 10th Ave., Pasco, Routine Sept. 21 (0 Red, 0 Blue) Richland Dugout Bar & Grill, 99 Lee Blvd., Richland, Routine Sept. 19 (30 Red, 8 Blue) Richland Food Mart, 500 George Washington Way, Richland, Routine Sept. 18 (Food service 20 Red, 0 Blue) (Store 0 Red, 0 Blue) Richland Health Foods (Store), 1769 George Washington Way, Richland, Routine Sept. 19 (0 Red, 0 Blue) Riverview High School, 36509 S. Lemon Drive, Kennewick, Routine Sept. 19 (0 Red, 0 Blue) Robert Frost Elementary School, 1915 N. 22nd Ave., Pasco, Routine Sept. 22 (25 Red, 0 Blue) Rowena Chess Elementary School, 715 N. 24th Ave., Pasco, Routine Sept. 22 (0 Red, 0 Blue) Sageport Grille, 1633 Columbia Park Trail, Richland, Routine Sept. 21 (Routine 20 Red, 0 Blue) (Follow-up 0 Red, 0 Blue) Sterlings, 890 George Washington Way, Richland, Routine Sept. 22 (5 Red, 5 Blue) Taco Bell, 3623 Plaza Way, Kennewick, Routine Sept. 21 (30 Red, 0 Blue) Uptown Bar & Grill, 1373 George Washington Way, Richland, Routine Sept. 18 (25 Red, 0 Blue) Virgie Robinson Elementary School, 125 S. Wehe Ave., Pasco, Routine Sept. 20 (0 Red, 0 Blue) Whittier Elementary School, 616 N. Wehe Ave., Pasco, Routine Sept. 19 (0 Red, 0 Blue) Zips, 1123 Lee Blvd., Richland, Routine Sept. 18 (15 Red, 0 Blue) Photo: Wikimedia Commons Six female migrants trapped inside a refrigerated food truck were rescued by French police after one of the women made a distress call to a reporter, the BBC reported Thursday. The women four Vietnamese and two Iraqis hid for hours in a truck loaded with boxes of bananas in northern France, believing the vehicle was on its way to the U.K. or Ireland. When they realized that the truck was going the opposite way, they started to panic in the cold and cramped, dark space. One of them managed to reach a BBC reporter in London, who then helped the women alert French police Wednesday. The broadcaster reported that the woman was able to send text messages, the truck's GPS location and short videos showing the conditions inside the truck. The women were shown sitting in a tight space on the floor, surrounded by boxes of fruit, panicking and struggling to breathe, according to the BBC. French police soon tracked them down and managed to intercept the truck on a highway, the broadcaster said. Authorities have opened an investigation. Thousands of migrants seeking a better life in the U.K. attempt to cross from northern France to Britain every year, either by hiding in trucks or onboard small, unseaworthy boats across the English Channel. Both routes can be perilous. In 2019, 39 migrants from Vietnam who paid large sums of money to human smugglers suffocated to death in a truck trailer on their way to England. In July a Romanian man described by prosecutors as part of an international human smuggling ring that made huge profits exploiting migrants was sentenced to more than 12 years in prison for the deaths. Four other gang members were imprisoned in 2021 for terms ranging from 13 to 27 years for manslaughter. A further 18 people were convicted in Belgium, where the Vietnamese ringleader was sentenced to 15 years in prison. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks Conservative government has taken an increasingly punitive approach to people who arrive by such unauthorized means. The government has passed a controversial law calling for migrants who arrive on small boats to be detained and then deported permanently to their home nation or third countries. The only third country that has agreed to take them is Rwanda, and no one has yet been sent there because that plan is being challenged in the U.K. courts. Newly released video from the Phoenix Police Department shows the chaos that broke out at Hacienda HealthCare when an incapacitated woman gave birth without the knowledge of the staff in December 2018. Hacienda staff only found out about her pregnancy when she went into labor, leading to a frantic 911 call. The patient, who had been living there since the age of 3 and was in a quadriplegic state, unable to defend or protect herself, had been raped. The case grabbed national headlines and led to the hospital shutting down, a nurse being sentenced to 10 years and triggered new legislation addressing care facilities. Hacienda hospital assault: State officials investigate after patient in nursing facility gives birth The earliest stages of the investigation recently came to light when the Phoenix Police Department released bodycam video in response to public records requests filed five years ago. The footage from Dec. 29, 2018, captured the fire crews running in and out as nurses, visibly traumatized by the birth, were calmed by co-workers and as police tried to interview witnesses at the care facility, its Christmas decorations still up. As police officers walked through the hospital, they tried to figure out who had access to the patient's room. Body camera footage showed Phoenix police investigate the birth of Hacienda HealthCare patient on Dec. 29, 2018. "Do you guys have any male, because what were trying to figure out is," the officer said. "Yeah, I understand," one staff member said. "We have male staff but (patient) is only female care only." "So no males ever go into her room, allegedly?" the officer asked. "No," said the staff member. Nathan Sutherland, who has been accused of raping and impregnating a patient at Hacienda HealthCare, is arraigned in Maricopa County Superior Court on Feb. 5, 2019. Despite the patient's file stating that she should only have female caregivers, it was later discovered that Nathan Sutherland, a male nurse working at Hacienda, had sexually assaulted her. DNA tests confirmed that Sutherland was the one responsible, which led to his arrest and prosecution. He was sentenced in December 2021 to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to sexual assault and abuse of a vulnerable adult. Sutherlands betrayal shocked the staff, as he had worked at Hacienda for eight years and was well-liked. Nathan Sutherland's sentencing: Former Hacienda nurse who raped, impregnated patient sentenced to 10 years in prison Sutherland, a practicing Christian and father of four, attributed his actions to being sexually assaulted at an orphanage and neglected by his mother, according to court documents. The impact of the crime went beyond Hacienda HealthCare. It prompted the passage of a state law that requires intermediate care facilities to obtain a state license and to implement stronger background checks for those caring for vulnerable adults. Exterior of Hacienda HealthCare facility in Phoenix on Feb. 18, 2019. The incident also led to the establishment of an Abuse and Neglect Prevention Task Force by the Arizona Health Care Association. The victim's family reached a settlement with the state, the doctors responsible for her care, and Hacienda HealthCare. New nursing regulations: Arizona bill would add more state regulation to facility where patient was raped Hacienda HealthCare issued a statement to the media on Sept. 7, which said, "seeing video from that night almost five years ago is still gut-wrenching. Our hearts again go out to the victim and her family - and we remain disgusted by the behavior of the nurse who harmed a patient." The facility has undergone a transformation, with new board members, leaders, personnel, security infrastructure, procedures, and resident care protocols, according to the statement. As for the victim and her child, the family attorney shared with media that the child is now 5 years old, walking, and talking but still too young to fully understand any of what happened. The victim lives in a different care facility in Phoenix and is in good health, according to the family attorney. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Hacienda HealthCare: Phoenix police video shows initial rape investigation A federal grand jury has indicted six people in a murder-for-hire scheme that resulted in the deaths of two people and injuries to others in shootings at two Mobile night clubs and another outside the Scarlet Pearl Casino in DIberville, according to court records and other reports by Al.com. The defendants are identified in a nine-count federal indictment unsealed in federal court in Mobile this week. The defendants are identified in court papers as John Fitzgerald McCarroll, Reginald Denis Alan Fluker, Darrius Dwayne Rowswer, Karmelo Cortez Morris Derks, Jimaurice Pierce, and Lyteria Iseeia Hollis. The charges are filed in connection with shootings at Bank Nightclub and Paparazzi Club in Mobile and a third shooting outside the Mississippi Coast casino that resulted in the death of Nicholaus Nick Craig, a Mobile native who was living in California at the time of his death. Fox News identified Derek Shavers as the person to die in the Sept. 18, 2022, shooting at the Bank Nightclub in Alabama. Four others suffered injuries in that shooting. According to court records, McCarroll was the alleged mastermind in the murder-for-hire conspiracy. The records do not explain how the murder-for-hire conspiracy worked. The paperwork shows that McCarroll, Fluker, Rowser, Pierce and Hollis are indicted on a federal charge of conspiracy to commit murder. Heres a look at the other charges: McCarroll Jr., aka Juvie, was indicted on two additional counts of murder for hire, obstruction, and tampering with a witness. Fluker, known as Richie Mill, was indicted on an additional charge of murder for hire Rowser was indicted on additional charges of murder for hire, conspiracy to commit carjacking and interstate transportation of a stolen vehicle Pierce was indicted on additional charges of illegal possession of a machine gun and possession of an unregistered 9 mm pistol Derks was indicted on additional charges of conspiracy to commit carjacking and interstate transportation of a stolen vehicle Hollis, identified by authorities as McCarrols girlfriend, was indicted on charges of obstruction and tampering with a witness. McCarroll and Rowser are also facing other state charges in Mobile related to a November shooting at the Paparazzi Club, according to Al.com. In DIberville, Rowser and Derks are facing state charges of murder in Mississippi in connection with Craigs Sept. 21, 2022, killing in DIberville. Craig was celebrating his birthday the night of his murder. The federal charges of conspiracy to commit carjacking and interstate transportation of a stolen vehicle stem from the two suspects using a stolen vehicle, identified as a 2010 blue Nissan Altima that authorities say the suspects drove from Mobile to DIberville, where Craig lost his life. The other charges are related to a murder-for-hire that injured four people in Mobile in September 2022, and another shooting there at Bank Night Club that left Derek Shavers dead and others injured. After 7 years as a Third Place for neighbors in Charlottes Fourth Ward, the owners of Poplar Tapas have announced the restaurant will close permanently. The closing date is Oct. 7. The restaurant will have regular hours this week and next. On Oct. 6 and 7, expect live music, good food, and bottles of wine for sale from the last of its inventory. Co-owners Lucia Zapata Griffith and Bruno Macchiavello are promising a new venture in a new location, however. Lucia Griffith and Bruno Macchiavello. This is not a goodbye but a brief interlude, they said in a joint statement emailed to CharlotteFive. We ask our patrons and the community to stay tuned for an exciting new dining experience that will continue Poplars legacy of building community around the table. Griffith, who is also an architect, created a vibe by merging modern with traditional in a fusion of architectural design with an international feel. People tell us they feel like they are somewhere else Charleston or Europe or London or Lima, she told CharlotteFive a few years ago. Macchiavello brought his love of cooking and an international culinary education with him to the Fourth Ward restaurant: He studied in Peru, Italy and Brazil before coming to Charlotte. He also opened Viva Chicken and Yunta. The Peruvian restaurant known for its ceviche and Pisco Sours made its home in the historic Morrison House on Poplar Street. Diners (including this writer, on many occasions) quite literally felt at home in the old house with the sprawling streetside patio. Visitors would often arrive early and stay until bedtime, talking with friends and neighbors, outside if the weather is nice and especially on the evenings with live music. Drinks and ceviche at Poplar. Location: 224 W 10th St, Charlotte, NC 28202 Menu Cuisine: tapas Instagram: @poplartapas With their bright feathers and lightning-fast wings, hummingbirds are beloved by bird enthusiasts and casual watchers alike. A 73-year-old woman in Mexico City has devoted herself to protecting these fragile birds, setting up a hummingbird hospital in her home. When she was recovering from colon cancer in 2011, Catia Lattouf decided to aid another on their path to healing. She welcomed a hummingbird that had lost an eye into her apartment, nursing it back to health. One hummingbird led to another, and now Lattouf can care for around 60 hummingbirds at a time. Her apartment is perpetually filled with long beaks and flapping wings as she lovingly cares for her ailing avians. She typically cares for sick, injured, or infant hummingbirds before returning them to the wild. During their stay, Lattouf shares her bedroom with her patients until they are strong enough to leave. Lattoufs home has gained a reputation in her community as a bird sanctuary, and locals will bring struggling hummingbirds to her for help. In Mexico, several hummingbird species are at risk of extinction. The country is home to 58 hummingbird species, and half of its 13 endemic species are at risk of extinction. Hummingbird populations are dwindling because of habitat loss from human development and the effects of Earths rising temperature. Another big reason Lattouf herself has observed is grackles, an invasive bird species. Grackles are not from Mexico City, Lattouf told the Associated Press. They were brought here, imported, and are destroying nests and birds. Not only are hummingbirds a pleasure to watch flit around in your backyard, they also serve an important ecological purpose as well. Hummingbirds feed frequently every 10 to 15 minutes soaring from flower to flower and sipping nectar along the way. As the birds visit different flowers, they transfer pollen through their bills and disrupt pollen grains to increase pollination. Pollination is essential for plant reproduction by ensuring plants produce fruit, which is imperative to sustain human food supplies. With the help of her assistant nurse, Cecilia Santos, Lattouf will continue caring for and releasing hummingbirds into the wild. Since going viral on TikTok, Lattouf has seen a higher demand for her services. Working from 5 a.m. to well into the night, Lattouf does all she can to save each hummingbird that enters her home. Nothing is guaranteed, she told the AP. I believe God gives life and God takes it, but we do everything possible. Join our free newsletter for cool news and cool tips that make it easy to help yourself while helping the planet. The Summit County Sheriff's Office reports a passenger of a pickup truck fired several rounds from a handgun into a black SUV while both vehicles were traveling southbound on I-77. The driver of the Lincoln SUV was struck multiple times and killed, It's been nearly two months since the Aug. 3 Interstate 77 fatal shooting turned-vehicle crash took place. In that time, there have been no arrests but that doesn't mean law enforcement agencies have sat idly by. From tracking the suspected vehicle on cameras to executing a search warrant in the days following the shooting and continuing to hunt for leads, investigators have remained on the case, Summit County Sheriff's Office Inspector Bill Holland said. Although the suspect or suspects are on still on the loose, Holland said there is no indication they are a risk to the general public. "Of course, don't engage in road rage incidents and be safe," he said. Anyone with leads or tips regarding the incident can submit information on the Summit County Sheriff's Office website or call 330-643-2154. From shooting to warrant and ongoing search An Ohio Department of Transportation camera captured the deadly incident that Thursday afternoon when a person in a white shirt leaned out of a pickup truck driving south on Interstate 77 and opened fire. Police body camera footage shows roughly eight bullet holes in a nearby black SUV. The shooter fatally wounded the 23-year-old driver, Marquise Banks. At least three of the projectiles exited through the passenger side door. The black SUV sits on the shoulder of I-77 southbound lanes after the driver was shot, jumped the median and crashed into another vehicle. I-77 shooting: Akronite killed in I-77 shooting, crash identified; crash victim says she was 'lucky.' Within seconds after the shooting, the SUV swerved left, narrowly missing the pickup truck and another vehicle before it jumped the grass median, tore through a fence and collided with a Mercedes traveling in the northbound lanes. Banks was later pronounced dead. The 54-year-old Mercedes driver walked away with non-life-threatening injuries, having received lacerations to her left arm from the crash. Following the crash, investigators identified a blue 2008 Dodge Ram pickup truck in connection to the homicide. That description matches the pickup truck in ODOT traffic video footage near mile marker 117. Police located the truck using Flock Safety cameras that record license plate information, according to the Summit County Sheriff's Office. Detectives executed a search warrant in New Philadelphia the day after the shooting. No charges or affidavits were filed at Barberton Municipal Court at the time. The incident remains under investigation. 911 calls, body-worn camera footage Ann Shuman's Mercedes sits in the shoulder along Interstate 77 after it was struck by an SUV Thursday. The driver of the SUV was shot while driving southbound before he jumped the median into the northbound lanes, striking Shuman. Police provided 911 calls and body-worn camera footage from one officer seven weeks after the Akron Beacon Journal submitted a routine public records request. Minutes after the shooting, a woman driving north on I-77 called dispatchers to report the crash. "I'm on 77 North and this truck just flew across at the median, and there is a guy on the ground, he flew out of the car I think," the woman said. Another 911 caller traveling northbound told dispatchers that she and her mother saw the SUV collide with another vehicle. "Traffic is completely stopped and there is debris everywhere and no one can get through," she said. Following the crash when law enforcement was on the scene, body camera footage from a Summit County Sheriff's Deputy showed the extent of the damage. The front end of the SUV was smashed in with eight bullet holes on the driver's side and three in the passenger door. The vehicle sat on the right side shoulder facing the median. After a quick jog down the highway, the officer approached the Mercedes, which was struck on the driver's side door. Debris littered the highway and shoulder between the two vehicles. This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: I-77 fatal shooting: Police still investigating, no public threat A new CBS/YouGov poll shows that 79% of Republican voters in Iowa and 77% in New Hampshire are not committed to voting for former President Donald Trump. The survey, conducted in Iowa and New Hampshire between Sept. 15-24, found that more Republican voters in the two states have ruled out voting for Trump than have decided they will back him. In Iowa, 20% of Republican voters say they are only considering Trump, while 48% are choosing between the former president and other candidates. Thirty-one percent say they have ruled out casting a vote for Trump. In New Hampshire, of Republican voters surveyed, 23% say its Trump only, while 34% have ruled him out. That leaves 43% who are considering Trump and at least one other candidate. Related How do the other candidates stack up? Even though voters are considering other candidates, Trump is still the far-and-away leader among primary Republican voters in both states. He sits at 51% in Iowa and 50% in New Hampshire. Voters are split among his challengers. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis comes in at No. 2 and former S.C. Gov. Nikki Haley at No. 3 in both states, and then the order shifts between the two. In Iowa, DeSantis is at 21%, Haley is at 8%, S.C. Sen. Tim Scott and former Vice President Mike Pence are both at 6%, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy is at 5%, and both former N.J. Gov. Chris Christie and and Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson are at 1%. In New Hampshire, DeSantis has dropped to 13%, Haley is at 11%, then Ramaswamy and Christie are tied at 8%, Tim Scott is at 5%, Pence and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum are both at 2% and Hutchinson is at 1%. Trumps perceived strengths and winning strategy Trump supporters say that he is prepared and a strong leader, who is also the only candidate that most voters think would definitely beat President Joe Biden in a head-to-head match-up. Voters also differ in what they perceive as a winning strategy for Trump. In Iowa, 56% of Republican primary voters say its more important to motivate the base than to appeal to moderates and independents. In New Hampshire, only 41% think appealing to the base is the winning strategy. The winning strategy, according to 59% of primary Republican voters in New Hampshire, is to appeal to moderates and independents. Why it matters Polling months away from the primary election and more than a year away from the general election can give only a snapshot in time. It matters, though, because it gives a glimpse into statistical modeling that can begin to predict delegate numbers for each candidate. This weeks polling gives a delegate range for each candidate today, not where things will end up next year. CBS reports that Trumps current support translates to between 18 and 23 delegates in Iowa, where delegates are allocated proportionally based on the statewide vote. DeSantis is in a distant second with 6 to 10 delegates, and the rest of the field tends to pick up at most a few delegates each. In New Hampshire, where candidates have to win at least 10% of votes statewide to qualify for any delegates, Trump dominates. The CBS/YouGov simulations indicate his support translates to between 14 and 20 delegates, even though only half of the states primary voters name him their first choice. There are four candidates hovering around the 10% threshold: DeSantis, Haley, Christie and Ramaswamy. In some simulations, they qualify for a few delegates. In many, they fall a little short and get nothing, which would extend the front-runners lead. Holly Richardson is the editor of Utah Policy. The White House on Thursday took new steps to fight antisemitism, with eight federal agencies officially declaring that an essential civil rights protection outlaws antisemitism amid a rise in hate crimes targeting Jewish people. Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act outlaws discrimination on the basis of race, color or national origin in any program or activity that gets federal funding. But, for the first time, eight federal agencies put it in writing, explicitly stating that the protections apply to certain forms of antisemitic, Islamophobic, and related forms of discrimination in federally funded programs and activities. These wide-ranging protections provide important tools to curb discrimination based on shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics and to better protect the civil rights of all Americans, the administration said in a statement. President Joe Biden signaled the measure earlier this year, when he announced executive branch actions in his national strategy to counter antisemitism. The departments that made the declaration include Agriculture, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Labor, Treasury, and Transportation. Staff at those departments will be trained to respond to discrimination and help people file complaints. They will also investigate any issues raised under Title VI and other civil rights authorities and vigorously enforce protections within federally funded programs and activities they administer, such as guarding people against harassment on transit systems funded by the Transportation Department, according to the administrations statement. Each agency will analyze the ways in which Title VI covers discrimination based on shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics. The Justice Department will also follow up with more information on how the protections apply to individuals of other faith traditions, including Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Hindu and Buddhist. The fact sheets to be released by each agency will be translated into several languages, including Yiddish, Hebrew, Arabic and Punjabi, to ensure it reaches broad swaths of the population. The announcement builds on the rollout of Bidens May 2023 national strategy for combatting antisemitism, including more than 100 steps the White House planned to address this type of hate. History teaches that hate never fully goes away; it only hides until it is given just a little oxygen, Biden said at the time. That is why we must confront antisemitism early and aggressively whenever and wherever it emerges from the darkness. While Jewish Americans represent just under 3% of the U.S. population, they are disproportionately targeted for hate crimes. Last year, the Anti-Defamation League reported nearly 3,700 antisemitic attacks in the U.S., a 36% increase from 2021 and the most since ADL started its tracking reports in 1979. CORRECTION: This story incorrectly identified one of the languages that new fact sheets will be translated into. They will be translated into Yiddish, Hebrew, Arabic, Punjabi and other languages, according to the White House. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) took a swing Wednesday at President Biden over the migrant crisis after busing more people to New York a few days ago. The lead importer of migrants to New York is not Texas; its Joe Biden, Abbott said at a Wednesday event at the Manhattan Institute in New York, according to The Associated Press. Abbott and the Texas Division of Emergency Management chartered buses that left Del Rio and Eagle Pass and headed to New York Friday, according to the New York Post. The busing came in spite of New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) saying the state is at capacity. Texas border towns should not have to shoulder the burden of Bidens open border policies, Abbott posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. Texas will continue to send buses to sanctuary cities to provide relief to overrun border towns. The Texas governor has bused thousands of migrants to New York, Denver and Chicago, among other large cities. The Biden administration has taken issue with Abbotts tactics. The Justice Department sued Texas over a barrier in the Rio Grande made to block migrants from making it over the border in July. The suit is aimed at compelling Abbott to remove the barrier. We allege that Texas has flouted federal law by installing a barrier in the Rio Grande without obtaining the required federal authorization, U.S. Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta said in a statement announcing the suit. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. One thought helped Yevhen Mezhevyi overcome the ordeal of Russian captivity the thought of his three young children. Single father Mezhevyi, 40, was captured by Russian troops at a checkpoint when he and his children were fleeing their war-torn hometown of Mariupol last spring. For 45 days, Mezhevyi was kept at the notorious Olenivka prison camp in the Russian-occupied part of Ukraines Donetsk Oblast. There, he endured beatings, was forced to do hard labor, was deprived of food and sleep, and was locked up in a tiny dilapidated cell with dozens of other Ukrainians. And for all of that month-and-a-half, Mezhevyi had no idea where his children were. "I communicated with them in my thoughts. I had nothing else left," Mezhevyi told the Kyiv Independent. But the torment Russia had inflicted on Mezhevyi did not end on his release from captivity in late May it had only just begun, as shortly after he was freed he learned that the Russians had abducted his children. "Your children flew to Moscow today," Mezhevyi was told at a Russian-controlled police department in the occupied city of Donetsk. "They went to a camp there." But this was no holiday: Mezhevyis children had become victims of one of the most appalling consequences of Russias full-scale war against Ukraine the forced deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia. Since last February, nearly 20,000 Ukrainian children have been identified as abducted from Russian-occupied territories and sent to other Russian-controlled areas of Ukraine, or to Russia itself, according to a Ukrainian national database on child abductees. Russia is quite literally abducting Ukraines future. Russia often separates children from their parents at checkpoints, or at its sinister filtration camps, where it attempts to discover the true loyalties of Ukrainian citizens. Sending the children to "recreational camps" in Russia or in territories under its control is just one of the ways Russia carries out the unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children. The Ukrainian authorities and charities involved in returning these children say that their mission is exceptionally challenging. The figures prove that: As of Sept. 20, Ukraine had returned only 386 of the abducted children. Mezhevyis children are some of the lucky ones. According to an investigation by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Mezhevyi and his children are now key witnesses in the International Criminal Courts case against Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian Presidential Commissioner for Children's Rights, Maria Lvova-Belova. In March, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Lvova-Belova and Putin for overseeing the forced deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia an alleged war crime and act of genocide. Read also: Stolen generation. Russia systematically abducts children from Ukraine, gives them to Russian families Five days to rescue For the first two months of Russia's all-out war, Mezhevyi struggled just to keep himself and his three children Matvii, 13, Sviatoslava, 10, and Oleksandra, 7 alive in the heavily bombed city of Mariupol, which was then being besieged by Russian troops. They spent weeks in the bomb shelter of a local hospital, with dozens of other residents. "We would all gather together in the evenings, singing, playing cards, and telling stories" Mezhevyi recalled. But one day in early April, Russian troops disrupted the routine they had established. "They came and said: 'You have half an hour to collect your belongings, because a Chechen unit is coming, and there will be a 'sweep,'" the Russian troops said. Like many, Mezhevyi's family followed the order and were soon taken to a Russian checkpoint in the nearby village of Vynohradne, on the eastern outskirts of the city. "Youre one of our clients," a Russian soldier told Mezhevyi after seeing his registration at a military unit in Ukraine's western Lviv Oblast. Mezhevyi served there under contract as a mechanic from 2016 to 2019. Russian soldiers told Mezhevyi he needed to find someone to stay with the kids while he had to go to some place to "provide an explanation." Yevhen Menzhevyi endured the ordeal of Russian captivity while his three children Matvii, 13, Sviatoslava, 10, and Oleksandra, 8 were forcibly deported to Russia in 2022. He rescued them in June 2022 from the Russian camp in Moscow Oblast. Menzhevyi and his children have lived in Riga, Latvia, since then. (Photo: Yevhen Menzhevyi) When asked how long it would take, the Russian troops told Mezhevyi it could take "two hours or seven years." They were not joking, he said. And so his ordeal of Russian captivity began. Mezhevyi endured several interrogations at detention facilities across occupied Donetsk Oblast before being taken to his final destination the Olenivka prison camp. He said detainees are heavily beaten on their arrival at the prison. Over 50 prisoners, including Mezhevyi, were held in a cell designed for six. Soon, 29 of them were transferred to one made for just two people. "It was beyond horrible," he said, adding that it was hardly possible even to stand. "I saw people becoming insane and start hurting themselves there." Mezhevyis "mental connection" with his kids and thoughts about them helped him stay sane and survive the nightmare, he said. While he was in captivity, his children were first kept at a filtration camp in the village of Bezimenne, about 30 kilometers east of Mariupol, on the Azov Sea coast. Then they were taken to a hospital in Russian-occupied Novoazovsk, another 10 kilometers to the east. Mezhevyi said that after that they spent a day at an orphanage in Donetsk, after which they were taken to the Russian city of Rostov-on-Don. Then they were put on a plane to Moscow. Read also: Explainer: What we know about Russias deportation of Ukrainian children Only on his release from captivity did Mezhevyi learn that his children had ended up at the "Polyana" camp in Moscow Oblast, nearly 1,000 kilometers from their home in Mariupol. After a frantic search, he found the phone number of the person overseeing his children at the camp. He calmed down a little after hearing their voices on the other end of the line. According to Mezhevyi, Lvova-Belova had visited the camp herself. As Russian officials often do, she brought gifts and some fast food to the children there, trying to "bribe" them, Mezhevyi said. "When you give (fast food) to children brought from a war zone, they will be happy. So they were trying to show how (bad) Ukraine was and how awesome Russia was," said Mezhevyi. Since Mezhevyi had no money for the expensive trip to Russia to rescue his children, he decided to stay at a friend's and get a job to save up for the journey. But his plans were cut short one day in mid-June when his oldest, Matvii, called. Russian social workers had told the kids that since their time at the camp was ending and they could not be returned to Donetsk Oblast due to the fighting there, they would be taken to an orphanage or to a foster family in Russia. "(Matvii) told me I had five days to rescue them," Mezhevyi said. So he had to act fast. Although he still didnt have enough money, Mezhevyi found some Russian volunteers who agreed to help, and who paid for the trip. Ukrainian volunteers usually help return children from Russian captivity. They say that such rescue missions are difficult and do not disclose their details. The camp, he said, looked more like a "custodial facility" than a recreational site for children, with "big fences everywhere, serious security, and an electronic access system." He was questioned there and had to write out numerous declarations before he was allowed to see his children. "While I was filling out another declaration, I heard my girls' voices. I dropped everything and ran to them. We hugged and kissed, and then Matvii joined us," he recalled. Reunited, they escaped Russia and found a new home in the Latvian capital, Riga. They do not plan to return to Ukraine until the war is over. Russia has already brought too much pain to Mezhevyi's family, and they don't want to experience such a nightmare ever again, they said. A child made a hostage Almost all of Olha Usyks family gathered at the train station in Balakliia, Kharkiv Oblast, on March 26 this year. Someone very dear to them was on the train arriving from Kyiv. Someone Usyk wanted to see so badly that tears started to run down her face as soon as she saw the train approaching the station. Usyk knew that just in a few minutes, she would hug her 14-year-old son Bohdan for the first time in seven months. "He got out (of the train), looking a lot thinner and taller, more mature," Usyk says. "He had changed a lot," she adds. "I barely recognized him." The previous summer, her son had been taken to a recreational camp in the remote Russian city of Gelendzhik, in the south of Russia, on the Black Sea coast. At that time Balakliia a town in southeastern Kharkiv Oblast with a pre-war population of nearly 27,000 had yet to be liberated by Ukrainian forces. Bohdan Usyk, 14, was taken to a Russian camp in Gelenzhik when his hometown of Balakliia in Kharkiv Oblast was occupied by Russian troops in August 2022. His mother, Olha Usyk, struggled to return him home for seven months. (Photo: Olha Usyk) Usyk says the Russian occupation hit the people of Balakliia hard: There were torture chambers where at least 40 people were held captive at the same time, according to the police. Usyk says that Russian attacks targeted the city constantly, and intensified in summer. "We planted vegetables amid the shelling," she recalls. While her youngest five-year-old daughter did not understand what was happening and remained relatively calm, her oldest, Bohdan, was under severe stress. "He stopped sleeping and didn't eat much. At night, when there were explosions, he would jump out of bed and run about aimlessly," Usyk says. "He was beyond scared." Seeing that some of her fellow citizens had agreed to send their children to Russian camps and recreational facilities, she also thought this might be the right thing for Bohdan. Little did she know that her desire to save and protect Bohdan from witnessing the attacks would turn into another nightmare for both of them. "I thought that (for Russia) children would not be a bargaining chip, and that they would return him," Usyk says. Usyk says Bohdan was among the 25 kids deported from Balakliia to the Medvezhonok camp in Russias Krasnodar Krai region in late August. She also says Russians promised to return them after 21 days. They did not keep their promise. Instead, Bohdan was kept in Russia for about seven months. After Ukraine regained control over Balakliia in September and 21 days had passed, Usyk reached out to the person overseeing Ukrainian children in the Russian-controlled camp. In response, the person told her "there had been no orders to return the children" and that parents could either try to go to Russia themselves or "wait until Russian troops return to Kharkiv Oblast." Usyk knew her son wanted to return home badly, but she didn't have enough savings for the trip to bring him home. Bohdan was held in a number of facilities across Russias southwestern Krasnodar Krai region during the time he was in the country: From the camp in Gelendzhik, he was transferred to one in Anapa, further to the northwest on the Black Sea Coast, and then to the city of Yeysk, on the Azov Sea coast, where he stayed until March. After that, he was taken to Voronezh in central Russia. Read also: It was hell. Mother speaks of rescuing her child from Russian captivity Usyk says her son was lucky not to be "brainwashed with Russian propaganda messages" in the camps. She assumes that was because he was taken care of there by some Ukrainians. Unlike other children she had heard of, she says Bohdan wasn't punished or threatened there. According to Usyk, the Russian local authorities often visited the deported Ukrainian children, bringing them gifts, including smartphones and clothes. Usyk says she also heard that three Ukrainian orphans from Kharkiv Oblast had been adopted by families in the Chechen Republic. Although they had communicated often, and she knew where her son was and how he was doing, she was heartbroken every time she heard his voice she could hear how badly Bohdan wanted to come home, and how he missed her and his loved ones. By February, Usyk had saved enough money for the trip to Russia. She traveled hundreds of kilometers to the Russian border, only to hear that she was not allowed to enter the country. "I was crying hysterically there, but they just kicked me out," she says. Bohdan was devastated and speechless when he found out his mother could not make it: "He couldn't talk and called me only the next day," Usyk says. "It was very hard." But eventually a way to bring Bohdan home was found. The Ukrainian "SOS Children's Villages" charity, which works with the Ministry for the Reintegration of Occupied Territories to bring back deported Ukrainian children, put Usyk in contact with another woman whose child had also been abducted by the Russians. She managed to get all the paperwork done so that this woman could bring Bohdan home from Russia instead of her. Finally, in late March, Bohdan was brought home. Usyk describes the months she spent without her son as the toughest in her life. She missed Bohdan a lot, and he missed her too. "I was cursing myself for that No one thought that (the children) wouldn't be returned (by the Russians). I didn't think children would be made hostages in this situation," Usyk says. "It shouldn't be like that." "As we can see now, Russia follows no laws." Note from the author: Hi! Daria Shulzhenko here. I wrote this piece for you. Since the first day of Russia's all-out war, I have been working almost non-stop to tell the stories of those affected by Russias brutal aggression. By telling all those painful stories, we are helping to keep the world informed about the reality of Russias war against Ukraine. By becoming the Kyiv Independent's member, you can help us continue telling the world the truth about this war. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. An off-duty Athens-Clarke police officer who spotted a potential crime occurring outside the Clarke County Courthouse ended up in a fight with the suspect. The assault occurred shortly after 8 a.m. Tuesday when the officer arrived for a court matter and observed a man, who appeared to try and enter a Clarke County Sheriffs Office vehicle parked along Hancock Avenue, according to the report. When the officer identified himself as a police officer and questioned him about the activity, the man made a fighting stance and charged the officer, according to the report. A Clarke County deputy also responded and attempting to help the policeman, but the suspect was able to break free and run, police said. The officers caught the man across the street near the federal building, where police said man began kicking the officers. A Taser was used to help subdue him, according to the report. The officer was not injured in the assault, but the report shows his personal suit was torn during the scuffle. The suspect was identified as a 33-year-old homeless man, but at the jail he provided an address in LaGrange. He faces several charges including obstruction, battery on a police officer and disorderly conduct. Internet: Spectrum begins project to provide broadband to 3 Northeast Ga. counties Athens: New bridges on Athens bypass to open for traffic on Oct. 5 This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Homeless man charges Athens-Clarke officer outside courthouse Photo: The Canadian Press An injunction preventing blockades in the Fairy Creek area near Port Renfrew, where about 1,100 arrests were made in 2021, has expired. The injunction granted to Teal Cedar was in effect until midnight on Sept. 26. It was first granted in 2021 in response to protesters blocking roads in Tree Farm Licence 46 in an attempt to prevent the company from logging old-growth trees. Kathy Code, a member of the Rainforest Flying Squad, which organized blockades, said her lawyers have seen no application to extend the injunction. The company would have to seek a new injunction if it wants one in the future, she said. But it seems unlikely because theres really not much action within TFL 46, Code said. Despite protesters blocking roads by suspending themselves from large homemade tripods and chaining their arms in PVC pipes stuck in the ground, Teal Jones was able to access all the old-growth trees people were trying to protect, Code said. Its all gone down. Teal Jones did not respond to an interview request. The Fairy Creek protests led to about 1,100 arrests and 464 charges laid. The B.C. Prosecution Service approved 464 charges, mostly for contempt of court, against 413 people. There were approximately 250 guilty pleas. In August, 146 charges were dropped because police failed to read the full injunction to protesters. B.C. Supreme Court Justice Douglas Thompson ruled the abbreviated script they did read didnt give protesters enough information to have actual knowledge of the contents of the legal order and prove they were wilfully blind to it. Twenty-two charges were withdrawn for other reasons. Six people were acquitted after trial and five were convicted. There are still nine cases outstanding, as well as a civil suit by Teal Jones against 16 people, including Code. The civil claim accuses them of conspiracy. A decision is expected in the case next month. Activists continue to fight to preserve old-growth forests in B.C., and events are planned province-wide today to demand more action from the province. Organizers are calling on the province to move faster to implement recommendations in an old-growth strategic review that was released three years ago. The province committed in 2020 to implementing all 14 recommendations, which included establishing and funding a robust monitoring and evaluating system to update management of old forests, improving the mapping and classification of old forests and deferring development in old forests where ecosystems are at very high and near-term risk of irreversible biodiversity loss. Code said while many parcels of old forests have been temporarily deferred from logging, its difficult to tell how much is really protected. The result is a big sea of confusion and lack of information about whats protected, whats not protected and for how long. Theres certainly no long-term protection for one single tree made by this government, said Code, who will be attending an event in Nanaimo outside MLA Sheila Malcolmsons office to demand provincial action. An event is planned in Victoria outside MLA Grace Lores Fort Street office. A group is expected to occupy the street from 1 to 4:30 p.m., and a three-minute flashmob to the tune of Stop! in the Name of Love with reworked lyrics about old-growth trees is planned at an unspecified location in Saanich. The trees themselves have witnessed so much history, are history. A living history that we should respect, said Jane Welton of Greater Victoria Acting Together, one of the groups organizing the Saanich event. Jimmy Baker says the 24 institutions he oversees as chancellor of the Alabama Community College System are critical to opportunities for Alabama and its residents. Baker was in Gadsden last week to deliver his State of the System speech at Gadsden State Community Colleges Wallace Hall Fine Arts Center. Jimmy Baker, chancellor of the Alabama Community College System, delivers his annual "State of the System" address Sept. 21 at Gadsden State Community College's Wallace Hall Fine Arts Center. Seated is GSCC President Kathy Murphy. The community college system, assuming it is functioning as it should within the community, is the best instrument we have in this state to bring communities together and do the good work that we need to be doing across the State of Alabama, he told staff and faculty from GSCC and other schools and local officials. And were committed to that proposition. Baker said Alabama has defied a national trend that, according to a USA Today report earlier this year, has seen community college enrollment across the nation drop by 37% since 2010. That is not the case in Alabama, he said. We have grown every year for the last three years. Every semester weve increased. Our increase this year is almost 10% and were going to continue to grow. Alabamas community college system touched, in some form, more than 155,000 students last year, Baker said, not just full-time students but those attending part time or to seek certifications in a field. We are the best vehicle to bring about significant change in this state, he said. Baker recalled a visit to Gadsden two years ago, for the announcement of the Advanced Manufacturing and Skills Training Center under construction on GSCCs East Broad Street campus. Its one of more than a dozen workforce training centers being built by ACCS across Alabama. I felt a spirit in Gadsden that I hadnt over many, many years, he said. Everyone was excited. People were feeling good about their prospects. They could see progress and were going to continue that trend across the state. ... Im so excited to go to communities and see crowds of people who are coming out and saying, This is what we need. The key for the system, Baker said, is making students aware, as far back as elementary school and then through middle school and high school, of the opportunities that are available in communities, with community colleges in the forefront. Oftentimes, students never understand or know that," he said, because they havent been exposed (to it). Its our job to find more ways to be certain that we are providing the information and the education results so that students can ... fill the role in one of those opportunities. That involves cooperation between educators on all levels something Baker said after his speech that community colleges have been traditionally lax at to help each student develop a career plan where they can say, I know what it takes, I know the subjects I must take and I know the skills I must develop if I am going to follow this path, regardless of what that path may be. More: How GSCC's Advanced Manufacturing Center will change career tech education in Gadsden area That doesnt necessarily mean a path to a four-year degree, although the system still fills that traditional junior college role for those who desire it, but two-year technical programs or even short-term certificates in such things as skid steer or bulldozer operation. And the focus cant all be on major industry. Baker referenced the announcement earlier this year that Ultra Safe Nuclear Corporation will construct a Micro-Modular Reactor assembly plant in Gadsden. What happens is that (everyone) gets all excited, and I get excited, too, because we have a new industry thats coming to the state and theyre going to locate in XYZ community, he said. This new industry is going to have a pay scale that is well above the norm in that community, and as a result they end up oftentimes filling the vacancies with people who are key employees in existing small businesses. Folks, regardless of how many big industries we have, the majority of business in this state is in the small-business community, he said. Thats what builds a community; thats what makes a community work. It is a supportive mechanism of big industry, and we cannot ignore the need to do extensive training across the state. He recalled the mayor of Andalusia, Earl Johnson, telling him, Jimmy, I dont need more people with a B.S. degree in business, we only have a couple of stores that hire clerks. I need to be able to tell companies and people who are interested in relocating that we have a skilled workforce, that we can fill the jobs you need if you come to this community. From left, Gadsden State Community College President Kathy Murphy, GSCC Dean of Workforce Development Alan Smith, Alabama Community College System Chancellor Jimmy Baker and Etowah County Schools Superintendent Alan Cosby talk Sept. 21 prior to Baker's "State of the System" speech at GSCC's Wallace Hall Fine Arts Center. Baker, who has an extensive background in business, education and politics, has been ACCS chancellor since 2017. He recalled the system having nine interim school presidents in place when he took over, and how he tried to go beyond finding people just to fill those roles to attract candidates who were willing to pay the price, to be the leader ... that they need to be not just for the community, but for the improvement of the college as well. Theres now just one vacancy at Shelton State in Tuscaloosa which drew 98 applicants. (Baker said after his speech that it likely will be filled not at the next ACCS board meeting, but the one after.) Baker credited the leadership of the presidents in place now, including Gadsden States Kathy Murphy, with a remarkable amount of growth and development in the management of the system. He added, "This last fiscal year, after all audits have been conducted, theres nothing existing in a community college financially that I would be embarrassed for ... legislators or anyone else to see. Baker praised the other committed employees who work unbelievable hours doing the work to make sure that the elements that are under their control, the resources that are managed by that school, are managed appropriately and adequately. He challenged those present in Gadsden to do what is necessary to ... make this great community what it can be. Its a great community, you know that, but it can always be better and thats our goal: It must be better. This article originally appeared on The Gadsden Times: Alabama community college chancellor gives rundown on system NEW YORK Alleged crypto conman Sam Bankman-Fried was denied temporary release from a Brooklyn lockup Thursday before his upcoming trial on charges carrying more than a century in prison. At a brief court hearing, Manhattan federal court Judge Lewis Kaplan rejected arguments from the California mans attorney, Mark Cohen, to release him from the Metropolitan Detention Center so he could participate fully in his defense, later denying the motion in a written order. Kaplan cited the lengthy prison time Bankman-Fried faces and concern he might flee during the trial if things dont go his way. Efforts by Bankman-Fried to convince an appeals court to get him out from behind bars similarly failed. Your client, if there is conviction, could be looking at a very long sentence, Kaplan said in court. If things begin to look bleak, maybe he feels that now, if that were to happen, and if he had the opportunity, maybe the time would come that he would seek to flee. The judge said accommodations could be made to get Bankman-Fried to court early before trial proceedings so he can strategize with his legal team. His lawyers say paperwork in the case would scale three skyscrapers if printed out and that the trove is impossible to review with him due to shoddy tech conditions in jail. Prosecutors strongly opposed the motion and said hes already receiving greater accommodations that most federal pretrial detainees. Manhattan U.S. Attorney Damian Williams says the young entrepreneur siphoned billions of dollars from his cryptocurrency trading platform, FTX where millions of people in more than 100 countries bought and sold digital currency to resolve his crypto hedge fund Alameda Researchs debts, live lavishly in the Caribbean, and make straw donation to Washington lawmakers. After his December arrest in the Bahamas, where FTX was based, and extradition to the U.S., the 31-year-old self-described effective altruist was released to home confinement at his parents place in Palo Alto on a colossal $250 million bond. But Kaplan rescinded that arrangement in August after prosecutors accused him of trying to intimidate their star witness, Caroline Ellison, by leaking her personal writings to the New York Times, following similar transgressions under house arrest. Ellison headed up Alameda and dated Bankman-Fried on and off, which she wrote about in a Google Docs diary published by The Times. She accepted a plea deal from the feds after facing charges following his arrest along with two other associates, Gary Wang, and Nishad Singh, who are also expected to testify. A fourth, Ryan Salame, pleaded guilty to related charges last month, but its unclear whether hell take the stand. Bankman-Frieds fraud has been compared to that of Bernie Madoff, the late Wall Street Ponzi schemer who gambled away the life savings of thousands in his $65 billion scam. Prosecutors say that, like in Madoffs case, not all Bankman-Frieds victims were of wealthy means. Endorsements from the worlds leading financial minds and A-list celebrities like Larry David and Gisele Bundchen gave FTX a veneer of reputability during a crypto craze, leading customers to trust the millennial billionaire with the contents of their wallets. At least $100 million Bankman-Fried allegedly stole was funneled to political candidates and committees in both parties, the feds allege, to favorably influence crypto legislation. The one-time wunderkinds reputation went up in smoke in late 2022 when now-bankrupt FTX imploded as worried investors withdrew $8 billion. Bankman-Fried, facing seven charges, including wire fraud and money laundering in the upcoming trial, is expected to face a second criminal trial in 2024 on five counts filed after his extradition. U.S. prosecutors are seeking their signoff from the Bahamas to honor an extradition treaty between the two nations. He also faces civil charges by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Bankman-Fried denies all allegations. His spokesman declined to comment. _____ Granite State native and actor Adam Sandler visited a New Hampshire school that he attended as a child and played ball with students earlier this week. Photos shared by Lauren Foucher showed the comedian on the playground at the Webster Elementary School in Manchester on Tuesday. The Webster School is located at 2519 Elm Street in Manchesters north end, where about 400 students are housed in two connected buildings. Sandler was born in Brooklyn, but he grew up in Manchester after moving there at the age of six. 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 Tribal leaders lobbied on Capitol Hill for the second annual effort to enforce the American Indian Religious Freedom Act and ask for federal engagement to conserve peyote, a plant used in some traditional ceremonies that is being eradicated by both over-harvesting and climate change. (photo/Darren Thompson) WASHINGTONLast week, a delegation of leaders representing the Native American Church of North America (NACNA) and Tribal leaders continued efforts on Capitol Hill asking for federal assistance to protect peyote habitat in southern Texas. It is the second annual lobbying effort by leaders of the NACNA, who are asking for peyote protections under the American Indian Religious Freedom Act (AIRFA) We continue our efforts to protect our sacred medicine and way of life, NACNA President Jon Poncho Brady told Native News Online. If we dont protect our way of life now, it may be gone forever. NACNA leaders convened at the Indian Gaming Associations (IGA) office on Capitol Hill. They were joined by IGA President Ernie Stevens, Jr., Greg Smith, an attorney for Hobbs & Strauss who practices federal Indian law, and Shoshone Bannock Chairman Lee Juan Tyler. Throughout the week, NACNA met with congressional staff, White House staff, and other congressional committee members to strategize on how to protect peyote, both its environment and enforcement of the law that protects the traditional use of peyote in ceremonies. The American Indian Religious Freedom Act was amended in 1994 to include protections for the possession, transportation, and ingestion of peyote in traditional ceremonies for enrolled citizens of federally recognized tribes. The landmark laws amendment protected the use of peyote, which is classified as a Schedule 1 drug by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), but did not protect its habitat. The plant only grows on private land in southern Texas, and leaders are hoping to protect its environment from eradication due to climate change, over-harvesting, and the degradation of its environment. In a meeting with White House staff, NACNA asked the Administration for an executive order that protects traditional American Indian and Alaskan Native ceremonies, traditional sacred sites, and all identified ceremonial medicines, including peyote, and for enforcement of the American Indian Religious Freedom Act by federal agencies. If the executive order is signed by President Biden, it will be the first executive order that acknowledges sacred sites by an Administration. However, because of the separation of religion and state, NACNA was told that the president cannot endorse or condone religion. It has been 45 years since the law has passed, and there hasnt been a review of the effectiveness of a public law that is aimed to protect traditional American Indian ceremonies, NACNA Legislative Chair Ryan Wilson said. Thats an anomaly in federal law. AIRFA is primarily a policy statement and there are still misunderstandings and resistance to the law. Tribal leaders have revitalized efforts to educate federal agencies in Washington to enforce the law. The agency primarily responsible for American Indian issues, including ceremonies, is the U.S. Department of the Interior, which is currently led by Laguna Pueblo tribal citizen Deb Haaland. Leaders hope that the Dept. of the Interior will take the lead on both enforcing the law and conserving peyote. NACNA is the largest intertribal religious organization in the country, with more than 300,000 members, and its ceremonies often center around the use of peyote as a sacrament. It is considered a medicine and is treated as such. Under the law, peyote use is only allowed by members of federally recognized tribes. Non-Native people have taken an interest in peyote because of its ability to address mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Celebrities speak of peyote in mainstream media and reference shamans, hallucinogenic trips, and participating with Indigenous people, which remains against the law. Because of large interest by the non-Native community, pharmaceutical companies have tried to both decriminalize the plant and patent it. NACNA says efforts to decriminalize a protected plant is indicative that the law is neither enforced nor taken seriously. State Senators in California have introduced legislationSenate Bill 58that would decriminalize the possession and cultivation of hallucinogenic plants but excluded peyote and said that it fully respects the efforts made to legalize its use in ceremonies by Indigenous people who have used the plant for thousands of years. Like the previous years, the week-long advocacy effort was concluded by a peyote ceremony at the East Potomac Park, a park managed by the U.S. National Park Service (NPS) in Washington, D.C. However, this year, the organization was met with resistance by the NPS in acquiring a permit to conduct a ceremony. Per protocol, people wishing to conduct a ceremony, which includes elements many tribes include in their traditional ceremonieswind, water, earth, and firemust submit an application to the NPS to conduct a ceremony within a national park. Unlike last year, the organization received notification on the day of the ceremony, Thursday, Sept. 21, that they did not submit a burn permit, which is required at least 21 days prior to the scheduled event. This is the very reason we are here, to ask for federal transparency and enforcement of our rights, said NACNA Counselor Justin Jones to Native News Online. Here we are, in Washington, D.C., still fighting for our rights on our own land. Theres no one we can go to for the enforcement of our law. Currently, the U.S. National Park Service is led by Charles F. Chuck Sams III, an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation in Northeast Oregon and the first American Indian to be appointed as the Director of the NPS. Reaching a federal official in times of need is largely unsuccessful and met with bureaucratic hurdles of setting up meetings and appointments weeks or months in advance. Organizations, including the National Congress of American Indians, the Rocky Mountain Tribal Leaders Council, the Great Plains Tribal Chairmans Association, the Coalition of Large Tribes, the Shoshone Bannock Tribe, and other chapters of the NACNA have all passed resolutions supporting the efforts to conserve peyote. 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 Suzanne Morphews body was found this month in Colorado after she disappeared three years go (Denver7 - The Denver Channel) Often, finding the body of a missing person can mean the end of a cold case. When it comes to Suzanne Morphew, a Colorado woman who went missing in 2020, and whose body was discovered this month, her remains may be just the beginning of a new phase of an investigation that has bedeviled police and family members for years, and spawned a high-profile court case, a $15m lawsuit, and accusations of extra-marital affairs and murder. Heres what we know about the case. A chance discovery Morphew, a mother of two from Chaffee County, was last seen on 10 May, 2020, Mothers Day. After an investigation that involved 135 searches across the state and more than 400 interviews across multiple states, as of September of 2023, police still hadnt cleared up what happened to the missing 49-year-old. Then, on 22 September, a massive break in the case fell in their lap. As officers searched in Saguache County for Edna Quintana, a woman who went missing this may, they found a different set of remains. On Wednesday, 27 September, a coroner positively identified them as belonging to Suzanne Morphew. "While this case has garnered attention from around the world, it has touched our community and the sheriffs office deeply," Chaffee County Sheriff John Spezze said in a statement to CBS News. "We have never stopped our investigation and will continue to follow all leads in pursuit of justice for Suzanne." "Although locating Suzannes remains is a critical component of this investigation, and for her family, we are left with many more questions than answers, and it would be a disservice to conduct a news conference at this time," he added. A mysterious disappearance Morphew was last seen on 10 May, before heading out on a bike ride. Her bike was later found at the bottom of a steep ravine off Chaffee County Road 225. Police said the bicycle didnt appear to have been in a crash, and there was no blood on the scene. That was only the beginning of the strange circumstances surrounding the case. It emerged that all was not well in the marriage between Morphew and her husband Barry. The couple frequently fought over finances. According to prosecutors, in February of 2020, Suzanne bought a spy pen to see if she could capture Barry in what she believed was an extra-marital affair. Oh, Im sure your mistress has you all happy now so you can say you love me but bully me when youre with me yea thats love," she told Barry in a message later released by officials. However, in March of 2020, The Denver Gazette reports, she wrote a message to an old flame from high school that seemed to refence an affair of her own. "Nobody loves you ... like the way I do, she wrote. I crave time with you. I crave the feeling I get when we connect. Physically or emotionally. Youre my guy. Always." On 9 May, the day before Morphew disappeared, she sent a photo of herself sunbathing to the man, the last official proof of life police say they had of her. Love notes and tranquilizer darts Barry Morphew, Suzannes husband, quickly emerged as the primary suspect, though he has steadfastly denied any wrongdoing and has said he believed she was abducted. No questions asked, however much they want, I will do whatever it takes to get you back, he said in a video on social media after her disappearance seeking help from the public. The couples two daughters have continued to defend their father. However, prosecutors argued a variety of evidence suggests Barry Morphew was involved in foul play. Police found a tranquilizer dart cap in the Morphews dryer, and said data gathered from cell phones, Barrys truck, and GPS, showed him opening and closing his trucks door multiple times on the day Suzanne disappeared between 3 and 4am without leaving the driveway, all while his phone was in airplane mode. (He has said he was getting ready for work before his wife woke up.) He was later seen dropping trash in five different receptacles in the town of Broomfield, later telling investigators he couldnt recall what he threw away. A 6 May message from Suzanne, found in a cache of deleted messages on Barrys phone, captured her expressing a wish to end the relationship, while Barry responded with suggestions he might kill himself. Im done I could care less what youre up to and have been for years, she wrote, according to CBS. We just need to figure this out civilly. When Im dead which wont be long, you guys will be taken care of, he responded. A note on Suzannes iCloud account, meanwhile, recorded a list of grievances, including an incident in which Barry allegedly melted her wedding ring. Barry Morphew has always insisted on his innocence (Chaffee County Sheriffs Office) Despite the apparent strife, Barry said the couple remained in love, pointing to a love note Suzanne allegedly sent him in February of 2020. "Just want you to know my life would be nothing without your love and the excitement you bring to our marriage and my life. All my love , the note reads. Barry was arrested in May of 2021, but that wasnt the end of things A case gone off the rails The prosecution against Barry Morphew didnt go as planned. In December of 2021 the judge presiding over the murder case removed himself, after defence lawyers argued his relationwhip with a lawyer handling a case involving Barry Morphews alleged girlfriend could create conflict of interest. The following February, the case itself was removed to another county, with officials saying the high-profile investigation, which eventually made national headlines, made for an unfair environment for an impartial trial. "Because of the size of the community and the pervasive negative pretrial publicity since Suzanne Morphews disappearance, the Court finds that a fair trial cannot take place in Chaffee County, a judge ruled at the time. This is a high-profile case in a relatively small county with a small jury pool. The media saturation is high." In March, Mr Morphew asked for the case be dismissed, after his team accessed an internal Colorado Bureau of Investigation document describing his arrest as hasty and the worst decision that could have been made. Macy, Barry and Mallory Morphew speak on the third anniversary of Suzannes disappearance (ABC) The next month, the case was dismissed, after a judge found that prosecutors failed to turn over potentially exculpatory evidence, including DNA evidence and that relating to sexual assault cases in other states that may have pointed to another suspect, Colorado Public Radio reports. A lawsuit against Colorado police Now, Barry Morphew has sued Chaffee County, the Chaffee County Sheriffs Office, the CBI, and the FBI, arguing he was wrongfully charged. He is seeking $15m in damages. Theyve got tunnel vision and they looked at one person, and theyve got too much pride to say theyre wrong and look somewhere else, he said during an appearance with his daughters on Good Morning America. In just a matter of days, Discovery Park in Sacramento will transform into one of the nations top destinations for fall music festivals. It starts with a four-day barrage of guitar riffs and headbanging at Aftershock, which runs from Oct. 5-8 and is expected to draw upwards of 40,000 fans daily. Thats followed Oct. 14-15 by the country-flavored GoldenSky Festival, now in its second year, which is geared up to accommodate 30,000 fans daily. In other words, its time to throw a devil-horns salute or yell a big yeehaw near the banks of the Sacramento River. Both events are produced by Danny Wimmer Presents, a Los Angeles company that organizes and promotes concert festivals around the country. The companys plan is to continue putting Sacramento on the map for live music and grow its footprint even more. And civic leaders are eager to help thus far. Sacramento is becoming a festival marketplace, said Chamie McCurry, chief marketing officer for Danny Wimmer Presents. Sacramento is becoming a destination city and its on peoples radar. Our long-term goal is to program three (festival) weekends in October. The story of Aftershock and GoldenSky is one of tremendous growth and steady civic support. Aftershock launched in 2012 as a single-day event at Discovery Park, headlined by Stone Temple Pilots and Sacramentos own Deftones. It was attended by some 12,000 fans, about a three-quarter house at downtowns Golden 1 Center. By 2015, Aftershock moved to more spacious digs at Gibson Ranch. It had grown to a two-day event and attracted a combined crowd of 45,000, but parking woes and other logistical issues prompted a move back to Discovery Park. Aftershock continued to feature some of the biggest names in hard rock, such as Metallica, Ozzy Osbourne and KISS. By 2019, it expanded to a three-day event, and then four in 2021. That year, the concert trade publication Pollstar ranked Aftershock as the worlds third-highest grossing music festival. Whos playing Aftershock this year? Aftershock 2023 will feature some of the heaviest hitters in hard rock and metal. On the festivals Oct. 5 kickoff, they include Avenged Sevenfold and nu metal favorite Incubus. Heavy metal band Pantera, originally slated for the festivals opening day, pulled out of the concert last week and was replaced by Stone Temple Pilots. Tool, known for its intense prog-metal and mesmerizing sets, will headline Oct. 6 following a day that also includes speed-metal stalwart Megadeth as well as Tallah, a metalcore band formed by Max Portnoy of Code Orange. Korn will return Oct. 7 for its fourth Aftershock appearance, with more than two dozen bands including hardcore sensation Turnstile, Japans Babymetal and rap-rockers 311 bringing the noise. And it all wraps up Oct. 8 with a stacked lineup featuring Sacramentos Dance Gavin Dance, punk legend Rancid, Queens of the Stone Age and Guns N Roses bringing it all home in a headlining set. Its a lot of music to consume and a lot of tourism dollars that will be flowing into Sacramento. According to festival organizers, Aftershock tickets have sold in all 50 states, 40 countries and every continent save for Antarctica. The event is expected to sell out once again. Can Sacramento be a City of Festivals? Figures from Visit Sacramento estimate the total economic impact of Aftershock is upwards of $27 million. That includes tax revenue generated from 43,925 concertgoers staying overnight at hotels along with Airbnb and Vrbo bookings. Sacramento has quickly grown into a year-round festival destination and the pioneer on that list is Aftershock, said Mike Testa, president and CEO of Visit Sacramento, in a statement. The event fills hotels from Davis to Placer County and brings significant business to restaurants, bars and retail shops across the region. It is amazing to see the economics that the festival spreads throughout the region each year. GoldenSky appears to be on the same trajectory as Aftershock. In its 2022 debut, the country festival drew a combined crowd of about 50,000 over two days. This figure is expected to grow by an additional 10,000 attendees, with a lineup including headliners Jon Pardi and Eric Church along with Wynonna Judd, Parker McCollum and more than 20 other acts. Its estimated economic impact was more than $12 million last year. The inaugural GoldenSky was boosted with significant civic support, to the tune of $1.5 million approved by Sacramento City Council in July 2022. Those funds, which came from the federal American Rescue Plan stimulus package in 2021, were issued to Visit Sacramento, which, in turn, helped secure GoldenSky and underwrite its risk as a new festival. Fans take in the Brothers Osborne performance on the Visit Sacramento Stage during Sacramentos first-ever GoldenSky country music festival Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022, at Discovery Park. The two-day event featured headliners Tim McGraw and Sam Hunt, as well as Midland, Carly Pearce and more. Xavier Mascarenas/xmascarenas@sacbee.com We are working hard to make ourselves a City of Festivals, said Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg, in a 2022 phone interview with The Sacramento Bee. Im not afraid to champion investing public resources in building the creative economy, and thats exactly what were doing. These are the seeds for something that over time is going to continue being very special. Its part of building a great city. And frankly, its the fun part. Even more fun may be on the horizon. The long-term plan is to add a third music festival at Discovery Park each October, possibly one that showcases Americana acts. In between these festivals, theres talk of hosting music industry workshops and seminars on the days in between the festivals, a la South By Southwest in Austin. These are ongoing conversations, said McCurry. Sacramento is a great city for conferences and events. Downtown is built for it. But for now, the focus is on rock and country, two formats that have traditionally played well in the areas music market. The influx of outsiders who are ready to soak in Sacramento and its sounds is about to begin. We want this to be something people look forward to every year, their cant miss vacation, said McCurry. Sacramentos been an amazing partner to bring this into fruition. An air-raid warning was issued in the southeastern Ukrainian oblasts on the night of 27-28 September due to the threat of the launch of Shahed attack drones. The air raid continued until almost 03:30 and Vitalii Kim, Head of Mykolaiv Oblast Military Administration, believes air defence may have downed a record number of drones last night. Source: Ukraines Air Force on Telegram; Ihor Taburets, Head of Cherkasy Oblast Military Administration; Kim on Telegram Quote: "Shahed attack drones [have been spotted] in the south of Vinnytsia Oblast [and are moving towards] western oblasts! There is a threat [of attack] in Vinnytsia and Odesa oblasts." Details: Earlier, the Air Force issued air-raid warnings in light of the threat of Shahed drone attacks in Kirovohrad, Mykolaiv, Kherson and Dnipropetrovsk oblasts. An air-raid warning was issued in Zaporizhzhia Oblast in relation to Russian tactical aircraft activity on the southeastern front. Updated: At 23:50, the Air Force said several Shahed drones were approaching Odesa Oblast from the direction of the Black Sea. At 00:04: Several groups of Shahed drones were spotted moving towards Odesa, Koblevo and Ochakiv. At 00:14, Ukraines Air Force reported that groups of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were seen over the Izmail district in Odesa Oblast. At 00:21, the Air Force issued another warning regarding the threat of an attack drone strike in Mykolaiv and Odesa oblasts, stressing that several Shahed drones had been spotted approaching from the Black Sea. At 00:39, an air-raid warning was issued at Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, and later in Kirovohrad and Cherkassy oblasts. At 02:43, the local authorities reported that there had been explosions in Cherkasy Oblast, and that air defence forces were responding. Kim believes that air defence may have downed a record number of drones last night At around 03:30, the all-clear was given in most Ukrainian oblasts, with the warning remaining in place in Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts and Crimea. 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! CROSS COUNTY, Ark. (WREG) Arkansas State Police are investigating after a suspect was killed, and another was wounded after a pursuit that crossed three counties Wednesday. According to state police, a man and woman wanted in connection to a shooting in Etowah County, Alabama, led deputies on a chase that began in Crittenden County, crossed into Poinsett County, and ended in Cross County. Leigh Ann Snyder, who lives nearby, said she saw squad cars lined a mile long. I was going to work and got stopped about 6 oclock in the morning and was turned around by a Poinsett County deputy, she said. Deputies deployed spike strips on Highway 75 to stop the suspects. We had everything locked down because we had no clue, Snyder said. All I saw was a white car being loaded on to a wrecker and a county deputy truck being loaded on a wrecker. The suspects, identified as 54-year-old William Burchett and 47-year-old Tammi Naler, then fired shots at officers. The officers returned fire, striking Burchett and Naler. Arkansas State Police said Naler died from her injuries. Burchett, who is wanted for shooting his mother in Alabama, was wounded and transferred to St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro. Deputies from Crittenden, Poinsett, and Cross counties were involved in the incident but not injured. Its unclear which agencies fired shots. No state troopers were involved in the incident. Naler was transported to the state crime laboratory, where the manner and cause of death will be determined. But for Snyder, this incident has left her feeling uneasy while traveling the country roads she usually finds comforting. It scares you. It does because things arent like they were when I was a kid, you know? You cant trust anybody anymore, Snyder said. You cant even stop and help someone because youre scared youre going to get shot. Arkansas State Police said the case file will be presented to the prosecuting attorney who will determine if deadly force used by the officers aligns with state law. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. Having watched (Conservative Leader) Pierre Poilievre on the news in Penticton in July, and as recently as these past weeks, spout off about all manner of things wrong with this current government, I could not help but think, this guy just does not get it. He is fixated on (Prime Minister Justin) Trudeau, and has been since becoming the leader of the Conservatives. I guess he thinks by getting rid of his spectacles and all that Brylcreem and getting a new set of duds will change him into a totally different person. I dont think so. He is, and will continue to be, the same person. Intelligent, educated people will not fall for those gimmicky looks and ear-catchy phrases he spouts. He has said in the past politicians should serve only two terms, but he is still here, feeding at the public trough. Maybe it is time for him to find a real job, like being a truck driver, remembering his close association and support for the (convoy) truckers when he marched with them holding Canada for ransom. That was when the country was shut down for well over a month, when tens of thousands of innocent Canadians were shut out of their jobs, harassed, threatened and feared for their safety. It has cost this county untold billions of dollars. If his is as concerned about Canadians as he professes, why did he throw his fellow Canadians under the bus ? Ian MacLean Market intelligence -- where organizations gather information about industries, other businesses, trends and more in order to use that data to help make business decisions -- has become a huge industry in itself over the last few decades, projected to be worth nearly $84 billion in revenues this year. Now, as newer innovations like ChatGPT threaten to cannibalize the market, one of the bigger startups in the space, AlphaSense, is announcing a significant fundraise of $150 million to double down on the opportunity for growth. The Series E round -- which bumps New York-based AlphaSense's valuation up to $2.5 billion -- is being led by Bond, with participation also from CapitalG (Alphabet's fund focused on larger investments), Viking Global Investors, Goldman Sachs and new backer BAM Elevate. These are both financial and strategic investors: AlphaSense has more than 4,000 enterprise customers -- covering "the majority of the S&P 500, the worlds largest banks, investment firms, and consultancies, and leading companies spanning every sector of the economy" -- and more specifically the list includes search engine behemoths Google and Microsoft, J.P. Morgan and BAM Elevate. That list of customers, and the basic numbers of this latest round, are both impressive considering the state of play right now, when even startups with promising technology are finding it hard to close rounds, stand up strong valuations and win business. But AlphaSense's own activity speaks to the ups and downs in the current market. This is a definite up-round -- in the last 15 months prior to today, the company collectively raised $325 million in its Series D (first $225 million led by Goldman Sachs and Viking Global and then a $100 million extension led by CapitalG), ending with a $1.8 billion valuation. On the other hand, AlphaSense was originally looking to announce this very round, at this very amount, back in June, before delaying for three months (during which time some details of the round leaked out anyway). We've asked the company why it held off. There are a number of ways for organizations to identify and gather market intelligence these days, including the use of in-house research teams, enterprise search and business intelligence tools like LexisNexis or Elastic, outside consultancies, and much more. AlphaSense's spin and unique selling point is that it positions itself as a platform that is part data crawler, part insights extractor. Today the company covers some 10,000 sources of information that span private and public content published by big and small research firms, government and other public bodies, and competitors and other businesses. One particular area of focus has been honing in on financial insights, which AlphaSense beefed up with at least two acquisitions: Stream, which transcribes and catalogues "expert" interviews (executives, competitors, and supply chain members of top companies asked in-depth questions about an industry by analysts); and Sentieo, a financial intelligence platform that targets investment managers. Its platform -- sold as a service ("insights-as-a-service" is actually a thing) -- can be used to gather information about a specific company, but in the process of doing that, AlphaSense has built machine learning and its own natural language processing technology to "read" that data and make it into a digestible narrative and series of graphics of their own. We focus on the search for unstructured information, and we provide structure to it, is how Jack Kokko, the founder and CEO of the company, described the process to me last year. Web search intelligence is a problem that is constantly being fed through machine learning algorithms. The more people search on Google, the better Google gets, he said. But our system has to understand language and land on the right information without the benefit and insights of billions of web searches. None of that exists for private information. That is also, it seems, what will help AlphaSense continue to differentiate itself -- at least for now -- and outperform against the threat of generative AI platforms like OpenAI's ChatGPT, which has, unsurprisingly, already been weaponized (or celebrated?) as a market research engine. Speaking to me in connection with this latest round, I asked about the impact of ChatGPT, which has really seen a surge of interest in the last year. It gives "somewhat random results that don't understand the business or commercial standpoint" of the researcher asking questions of it, he said. "We are training our own Large Language Models, and we are seeing better performance that way." However, he's canny enough to know that this, longer term, will only be a part of what makes AlphaSense useful to its customers. "We can't predict that will be the case 12 months from now. We need to be on top of many things at once," he added. That's something that AlphaSense may well be using its own engine to track for itself, and if it's as effective as its investors and customers bet it is, that will keep it one step ahead of the rest. At Bond, we look for iconic technology companies that are shaping the future, said Jay Simons, general partner at Bond, in a statement. With the ability to deliver the right insights and data to help businesses confidently make the everyday, strategic decisions that ultimately define their future, AlphaSense immediately struck us as a category creator emerging into one of those iconic companies that significantly advances how the business world works. Nineteen months after her death, Secoya Williams family felt a range of emotions as they watched videos of her final moments presented in a trial for two women accused of her shooting. We laughed and we cried, said Williams mother Marilyn Johnson. You could see her in there dancing, buying drinks with her friends and just enjoying the night. Then we see her ambushed. The evidence showed she was attacked. Williams turned 25 just two weeks before she died. She was supporting a childhood friend at his musical performance when she was shot and killed outside Club Kalakutah on Indianapolis northwest side on Feb. 25, 2022. Two sisters were arrested in connection with Williams death a few days after the shooting. Arieal Smith, 25, was charged with murder, pointing a firearm and carrying a handgun without a license while Ebonie Parks, 29, was charged with assisting a criminal. More on Secoya Williams: 'Her light will just keep shining': After fatal shooting, mom honors daughter's life On Wednesday, Marion Superior Court Judge Jeffrey Marchal returned a verdict of guilty on all four charges the sisters were facing. The verdicts concluded the three-day bench trial for Smith and Parks. A sentencing hearing for Smith is scheduled for Oct. 20, while Parks sentencing hearing is set for Nov. 17. I am glad we finally got Secoya justice, Johnson said of the guilty verdicts. My daughter did not pick fights with people. The evidence showed what we knew was true all this time. I felt relief. What happened to Secoya Williams Almost one year later, the sting of the absence of Secoya Williams still lingers for family members. In honor of Williams life, Marilyn Johnson, mother of Williams, created a foundation to help those in need. Williams was shot outside of a night club and later was pronounced dead before arriving at the hospital. James Harney (left), Gloria Johnson, and Marilyn Johnson photographed on Monday, Oct. 31, 2022 at their home in Indianapolis. Williams childhood friend told police that Williams was trying to be friendly with everyone at the club on the night she was killed, according to a probable cause affidavit for Smiths arrest. The friend is identified by only his initials in court records. He told police that Parks, his ex-girlfriend, was upset Williams was there for his performance, which sparked the attack. As he was about to start his show, he saw Smith take off her shoes as though she were preparing for a fight. Smith grabbed a drink and threw it at Williams before trying to punch her. Smith was kicked out of the club by security, the man told police in the affidavit. Williams and the man followed the sisters into the parking lot. Smith rolled down the window of the sisters vehicle and the man heard Williams yell that Smith had a gun. Williams was backing up with her hands in the air when Smith opened the passenger door of the vehicle and shot her, the man told police. Read the IndyStar investigation here: 49 killed, 154 shot or stabbed: How Indiana law protects bad bars The Lafayette Square area club where Williams was killed has since closed, but had been a magnet for trouble. Police had responded to reports of gunfire there at least six times before Williams death. An IndyStar investigation published in February revealed Kalakutah was among a relatively few bars, clubs and event centers across the city tied to nearly 50 homicides. The investigation detailed law enforcements inability to shut down those bars because only the state Alcohol & Tobacco Commission has the authority to regulate businesses that sell or serve alcohol. The article also detailed how the agency's enforcement efforts had declined dramatically in recent years. Carrying on Secoya Williams legacy Almost one year later, the sting of the absence of Secoya Williams still lingers for family members. In honor of Williams life, Marilyn Johnson, mother of Williams, created a foundation to help those in need. Gloria Johnson (left), Marilyn Johnson and James Harney photographed on Monday, Oct. 31, 2022 at their home in Indianapolis. Despite the powerful grief and stress of the trial, Johnson still plans to honor her daughters legacy of helping other people. Johnson held a fundraising memorial event on her daughters 26th birthday in February. She put the money from the event toward causes Williams cared about, such as helping families afford daycare and supporting students at Hardon Educational Institute. Johnson plans on launching a GoFundMe page soon for a new round of fundraising to support similar causes and remember her daughter. Contact Jake Allen at jake.allen@indystar.com. Follow him on Twitter @Jake_Allen19. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Sisters found guilty of killing Secoya Williams outside Club Kalakutah In The Know by Yahoo Looking to put up drapes without any risk of losing your security deposit? This Dollar Tree hack might just be the answer. SAN ANTONIO (AP) The American soldier who sprinted into North Korea across the heavily fortified border between the Koreas more than two months ago was whisked to a Texas Army base Thursday for medical checks and interviews after his return to the U.S., according to the Pentagon. North Korea abruptly announced a day earlier that it would expel Pvt. Travis King. His return was organized with the help of ally Sweden and rival China, according to the White House. While officials have said King, 23, is in good health and the immediate focus will be on caring for him and reintegrating him into U.S. society, his troubles are likely far from over. King, who had served in South Korea, ran into the North while on a civilian tour of a border village on July 18, becoming the first American confirmed to be detained in the isolated country in nearly five years. At the time, he was supposed to be heading to Fort Bliss, Texas, following his release from prison in South Korea on an assault conviction. He was declared AWOL from the Army, but not considered a deserter. Punishment for going AWOL can vary, and it depends in part on whether the service member voluntarily returned or was apprehended. Kings two-month absence and ultimate handover by the North Koreans makes that more complicated. King arrived in the early hours of Thursday at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio and was taken to Brooke Army Medical Center, according to the Pentagon. He will undergo an array of medical and psychological assessments and debriefings, and he will also get a chance to meet with family. Video aired by a Texas news station appeared to show King walking off a plane. Dressed in a dark top and pants, he could be seen speaking briefly with people waiting on the tarmac. He shook hands with one before being led into a building. This image made from video provided by KSAT purports to show Pvt. Travis King, second right, coming out of an airplane in San Antonio, Texas, early Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. The American soldier who sprinted into North Korea across the heavily fortified border between the Koreas two months ago arrived back in the U.S. early Thursday, video appeared to show. Many questions remain about King's case, including why he fled in the first place and why the North which has tense relations with Washington over Pyongyangs nuclear program, support for Russias war in Ukraine and other issues agreed to turn him over. The White House has not addressed North Korean state media reports that King fled because of his dismay about racial discrimination and inequality in the military and U.S. society. The Norths official Korean Central News Agency reported that King made such complaints but verifying that is impossible. On Wednesday, Swedish officials took King to the Chinese border, where he was met by U.S. Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns, the Swedish ambassador to China, and at least one U.S. Defense Department official. He was then flown to a U.S. military base in South Korea before heading to the U.S. His detention was relatively short by North Korean standards. Several recent American detainees had been held for over a year 17 months in the case of Otto Warmbier, a college student who was arrested during a group tour. Warmbier was in a coma when he was deported, and later died. North Korea has often been accused of using American detainees as bargaining chips, and there had also been speculation that the North would try to maximize the propaganda value of a U.S. soldier. But analysts say Kings legal troubles could have limited his propaganda value, and Biden administration officials insisted they provided no concessions to North Korea to secure his release. This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Travis King, who bolted into North Korea has returned to the US Travis King , the young American soldier who crossed the border on foot from South Korea into North Korea in July, was back in the U.S. early Thursday. A defense official confirmed to CBS News that a plane carrying King landed in San Antonio at about 1:30 a.m. EDT. King was seen on video being led away form the plane. North Korea announced Wednesday that it would expel King, with the totalitarian state's tightly controlled media saying he had confessed to entering the country illegally. On Wednesday, King was first sent across North Korea's border into China, where he was transferred to U.S. custody. U.S. officials said there were no concessions made by Washington to secure King's release. King was met by Nicholas Burns, the American ambassador to China, in the city of Dandong, which borders North Korea, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said at a briefing later on Wednesday. His plane stopped in Shenyang, China, before continuing on to the U.S., where American officials said he would land at a military base. King appeared to be in "good health and good spirits as he makes his way home," a U.S. official said, adding that he was also "very happy" to be coming back. Miller said that while he didn't have specific information about King's treatment in North Korean custody, it was likely that King was interrogated. "That would be consistent with past DPRK practice with respect to detainees," he said. This family photo shows a portrait of American soldier Travis King displayed at the home of his grandfather Carl Gates, July 19, in Kenosha, Wisconsin. / Credit: Family Photo/AP In a statement Wednesday, U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan thanked the Swedish government and China for their roles in arranging King's release. Jonathan Franks, a representative for King's family, shared a message from the soldier's mother, Claudine Gates, on social media Wednesday, saying she would be "forever grateful to the United States Army and all its interagency partners for a job well done," and requesting privacy for the family. King, a private 2nd class in the U.S. Army, entered North Korea while taking part in a guided tour of the border village of Panmunjom, which he joined after absconding from an airport in Seoul, South Korea, where he was supposed to have boarded a flight back to the U.S. North Korea previously claimed that King had told investigators he crossed the border because he "harbored ill feeling against inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination within the U.S. Army." The U.S. military said at the time that it could not verify those allegations. The soldier had been scheduled to return to the U.S. after serving time at a South Korea detention facility for assaulting two people and kicking a police car while in the country. After parting ways from his U.S. military escort at the airport, King skipped his flight and joined the civilian tour of the border town, where he ran across into North Korea. In an interview last month with The Associated Press, King's mother, Claudine Gates, said her son had "so many reasons" to want to come home. "I just can't see him ever wanting to just stay in Korea when he has family in America. He has so many reasons to come home," she said. King has served in the U.S. Army since January 2021. He has not been deployed for active duty but was in South Korea as part of the Pentagon's regular Korean Force Rotation. King is likely to have proven "unsuitable for propaganda purposes" to North Korea, Professor Yang Moo-jin of the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul told CBS News, because the soldier entered North Korea as a fugitive, making it "difficult" for the country's authorities to deal with him. Yang also told CBS News the decision to deport the soldier was likely made in part due to a "lukewarm" response to the incident by Washington. CBS News' Cami McCormick in Washington, D.C., and Jen Kwon in Seoul contributed to this report. Gen. Milley responds to Trump post accusing general of treason | 60 Minutes North Korea says it will expel Travis King, U.S. soldier who ran across border Arrest warrent issued for suspect in killing of 26-year-old Baltimore tech CEO US Army Private Travis King arrived back on United States soil Thursday after being returned to American custody weeks after he crossed into North Korea, a Defense Department official said. King flew in on a US military flight, landing at Kelly Field at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston around 1:30 a.m. ET, the official said. A CNN camera captured what appears to be King being escorted off the plane by several people. They met officials waiting on the ground and led King off to another area of the military base, out of sight of the camera. While many questions still remain, such as what prompted King to enter North Korea and whether he will face any disciplinary action, his return marks a rare diplomatic success between Washington and Pyongyang at a time of fraught relations. It also caps a frenetic period of negotiations to secure Kings release, with weeks of what US officials called intense diplomacy between multiple countries including China, which facilitated Kings transfer across the border on Wednesday, and Sweden, which acts as the US protecting power in North Korea. A screengrab from a video shows an individual who appears to be Travis King, third from right, deplaning after landing at Kelly Field near San Antonio on September 28, 2023. - CNN North Korean state media KCNA had reported Wednesday that Pyongyang had decided to expel King, who entered their territory in July during a tour of the Joint Security Area (JSA) in the heart of the demilitarized zone between the two Koreas. Two US officials told CNN Wednesday that King is expected to be taken to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio upon his return, which has a dedicated program to help Americans acclimate back to normal life after being detained. The border crossing US military officials have said that King, a junior enlisted cavalry scout, willfully and without authorization crossed into North Korea in July. King had been released from a detention facility in South Korea just over a week before running across the demarcation line punishment which appeared to stem from an October 2022 incident in which he allegedly pushed and punched a victim in the face at a club in Seoul, according to court documents. The day before he crossed into North Korea, King was supposed to board a flight to Texas, where he was to face disciplinary procedures. But after Army escorts released him at a security checkpoint at Incheon International Airport near Seoul, King left the airport on his own. The next day, he joined a tour of the JSA he had previously booked with a private company. There is no physical barrier inside the JSA, and a US official previously said that after bolting over the demarcation line delineating the border, King tried to enter a North Korean facility but the door was locked. He then ran to the back of the building, at which point he was hurried into a van and driven away by North Korean guards. Pyongyang claimed Wednesday that King had confessed that he illegally intruded into the territory of the DPRK (North Korea) as he harbored ill feeling against inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination within the US army and was disillusioned about the unequal US society. CNN cannot verify whether those are Kings own words. But pressed on Wednesday whether King wanted to return, a US official said it became quite clear to US diplomats that Private King was very happy to be on his way home. The official added that King was in good health and good spirits as he made his way home. The North Koreans on Wednesday handed King off to the US Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns in Dandong, China. A Swedish convoy took King to the Friendship bridge on the border between North Korea and China, two US officials told CNN on Wednesday. On the Chinese side of the bridge, the US Defense Attache to China Brigadier General Patrick Teague and Burns met King and took him into US military custody. State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller said that King then flew to Shenyang, China, and then to Osan Air Force Base in South Korea before departing for the US. The US received word earlier this month from Sweden that Pyongyang wanted to release King. And according to a US official, Chinas role was limited to helping facilitate Kings transfer out of North Korea, but otherwise Bejing did not play a mediating role. Chinas foreign ministry briefly touched on Kings transfer at a regular briefing. At the request of North Korea and the US, China provided necessary assistance from a humanitarian point of view, spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters. US officials have emphatically said the US did not make any concessions to North Korea for the transfer. Rising tensions King is believed to be the first US soldier to cross into North Korea since 1982. The JSA, which hed been touring, lies along the demilitarized zone (DMZ) that has separated North and South Korea for decades often described as one of the worlds most armed borders. While a handful of US soldiers defected to North Korea in the decades after the end of the Korean War, the most recent instances of US nationals being detained in the country have been civilians sometimes for long periods as US officials try to secure their release and Pyongyang looks to extract concessions. One of the most well-known recent cases was that of Otto Warmbier, an American college student who traveled to North Korea as a tourist in 2016. After being held in detention for 17 months, he was released to US officials in 2017 and died with severe brain damage less than a week after his return, with Washington saying he had been tortured in custody. Kings crossing came at a time of particularly high tension between North Korea and the US and its allies. Pyongyang regards the US as a mortal enemy, and the two have no diplomatic relations which is why Sweden is appointed as the US protecting power in North Korea, providing consular protection to American nationals there and representing the US in diplomatic matters. North Koreas nuclear force has long been a sticking point, with the US and South Korea urging Pyongyang for decades to give up its nuclear weapons. Threats escalated in 2017, when North Korea launched its sixth and most recent nuclear test but cooled off in 2018 when North Korean leader Kim Jong Un held a series of talks with then-US President Donald Trump. However, the talks ultimately fell through with no deal delivered. North Korea ramped up its weapons testing in 2022, firing a record number of missiles, which has continued this year. In response, the US, South Korea and Japan have drawn closer together, vowing greater cooperation and planning new military drills to Pyongyangs anger. Earlier this month, US officials publicly warned that Pyongyang could provide weapons to Russia for its faltering invasion of Ukraine, with Kim traveling to Russia for a six-day visit during which he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin. In return, experts warned, Pyongyang could receive help with its own nuclear weapons and missile program. CNNs Kevin Liptak, Haley Britzky, Oren Liebermann, Betsy Klein, Rob Picheta, Gawon Bae, Alex Marquardt and Michael Conte contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Congressman Jeff Duncan's personal life is under public scrutiny following accusations of extramarital relationships. Duncan said Wednesday on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, that he would not comment on a deeply personal matter and was focused on legislating as a potential government shutdown draws closer. The 3rd Congressional District Congressman further said he was proud to have one of the most conservative voting records in Congress. Accusations began swirling when Duncan's wife, Melody, filed for divorce citing infidelity Sept. 22, 2023. In court records, first published by the Index Journal, Duncan was accused of adulterous relationships with a lobbyist and one other woman. My family is dealing with a difficult and private moment and Im not going to comment on a deeply personal matter. My focus is fighting on behalf of the people of South Carolinas 3rd District as we stare down the barrel of a government shutdown as the liberal extremists try Rep. Jeff Duncan (@RepJeffDuncan) September 27, 2023 Only a month ago, Duncan hosted his signature Faith and Freedom BBQ, a major Republican fundraising event, where he portrayed himself as a dedicated, dutiful husband. Court records said Duncan allegedly flew to Washington the day after the event to be with the lobbyist. Duncan's wife, per the complaint, said the state's political class and members of staff were privy to information about the congressman's extramarital relationships, adding that Duncan was trying to present a "false narrative of a loveless marriage to [Melody] to justify the hypocrisy of his statements and his private actions." The South Carolina lawmaker has represented the district for 13 years and shares three children with his wife. He has often advocated for traditional family values. Jeff and Melody Duncan have been married for nearly 35 years. The congressman's spokesperson and Melody Duncan's lawyers did not respond to request for comment. Duncan is the second South Carolina lawmaker to face accusations of infidelity. Last year, 4th Congressional District Congressman William Timmons and his wife announced their separation after rumors of infidelity followed the lawmaker's election campaign for months. Devyani Chhetri covers SC politics. Reach her via email at dchhetri@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Rep. Jeff Duncan keeps focus on shutdown amid infidelity accusations CONTENT WARNING: This story discusses suicide. Help is available 24/7 at the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Last year was Brightlines deadliest, a TCPalm analysis of U.S. Department of Transportation data shows. In 2022, the high-speed passenger rail companys trains were involved in 32 fatalities in Broward, Palm Beach and Miami-Dade counties. Brightline was linked to 96 fatalities in the tri-county area between its 2017 founding and June 5, 2023, when the most recent death was documented by DOT. This includes 13 so far in 2023. Brightline on Sept. 22 began its long-anticipated Miami-to-Orlando service, a trek that spans 235 miles and traverses Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River counties. That morning, before the inaugural northbound train left Miami, a pedestrian was hit and killed in Delray Beach. Six days later on Thursday, tragedy struck the Treasure Coast when the St. Lucie County Sheriffs Office reported a northbound Brightline train had fatally hit a person in Fort Pierce. The sheriffs office on Facebook referred to the person as a trespasser. Each Brightline death is classified the same way in federal records. Broward, which has a Brightline station in Fort Lauderdale, had the most deaths at 44. A plurality of fatalities, 14, happened in January. The 6 p.m. hour, when nine casualties happened in the last six years, was the most deadly. The victims ranged in age from 17 to 84, with the plurality being 39 years old. About half the fatalities involved the victim walking or running on the tracks. At least seven deaths were ruled suicides. Since 2017, Brightline trains have been involved in almost as many incidents that werent fatal, 92. Two of those happened in Orange County. Last year was also the most dangerous for non-fatal incidents, with 24. In the past six years, Brightline has reported injuries as minor as a sprained finger to as serious as an intracranial fracture. In the coming weeks, Brightline is scheduled to ramp up service so 32 trains will cross the Treasure Coast daily, reaching maximum speeds of up to 125 mph. Lindsey Leake is TCPalms projects reporter. She has an M.A. in Science Writing from Johns Hopkins University, an M.A. in Journalism and Digital Storytelling from American University and a B.A. from Princeton University. Follow her on X @NewsyLindsey, Facebook @LindseyMLeake and Instagram @newsylindsey. Call her at 772-529-5378 or email her at lindsey.leake@tcpalm.com. Read more of Lindseys stories and support her work with a TCPalm subscription. This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Brightline Florida: Nearly 200 train fatalities, injuries since 2017 The city of Des Moines' new animal shelter, operated by the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, includes more than 200 kennels for cats and dogs. The facility, located at 1441 Harriet St. and twice the size of the current shelter, is slated to open in mid-December of 2023. Iowa's largest nonprofit animal shelter will soon be twice as large. The Animal Rescue League of Iowa is moving from its 31-year-old animal control quarters to a new, 22,000-square-foot hub at 1441 Harriet St., next to Peter Crivaro Park and Southeast 14th Street. Its headquarters will remain at 5452 NE 22nd St. Animal Rescue League services director Joe Stafford said that with more than 200 kennels for dogs and cats, an adoption wing, a veterinary clinic and outdoor space for play, the facility is not just an animal shelter, but a place to support keeping family and pets together. A third-party consultant in 2017 determined that the organization had outgrown its current animal control facility at 1615 SE 14th St. and was ill-equipped to handle the volume of animals coming through its doors, as well as an expected surge in the pet population as the city grows. Construction costs for the new shelter, paid for and owned by the city, have skyrocketed to $12.5 million from an estimated $5.5 million. The Animal Rescue League has provided all of Des Moines' shelter services since 2005 and animal control services since 2009, handling dog bites, stray and wild animal detainment and animal cruelty investigations. It will continue those services in the new facility, slated to open in mid-December. The city of Des Moines' new animal shelter, operated by the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, includes more than 200 kennels for dogs and cats. The facility, located at 1441 Harriet St. and twice the size of the current shelter, is slated to open in mid-December of 2023 Tom Colvin, who has served as the rescue league's CEO since 1995 and has been working in the field since 1974, said the new facility will help accommodate a "drastic" shift in how society views its pets. "They're not tied in the backyard anymore. They're sleeping in our beds," Colvin said. "And all of what we're dealing with from the ... Animal Rescue League's partnership in this realm just needs to catch up with this whole line of thinking. The whole thing is very positive." More: ARL Iowa, Boone County Sheriff rescued nearly 100 dogs from apparent puppy mill He said the organization is working with the city to reflect those societal shifts in the city's pet ordinances, gearing them toward encouraging owners to get their pets licensed and vaccinated instead of penalizing them for failing to do so. Stafford said the new building also is located near a future pullout site for the ICON water trails project, which he hopes will help reel in visitors. "This is really a game-changer for our community," he said. The City Council is set to approve a 10-year shelter and field services agreement at a meeting in October. Animal Rescue League adds adoption, outdoor play space at its new shelter The city of Des Moines' new animal shelter, operated by the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, includes more than 200 kennels for dogs and cats. The facility, located at 1441 Harriet St. and twice the size of the current shelter, is slated to open in mid-December of 2023. Stafford said the difference between the old and new facilities is like "night and day." The new facility will house an adoption wing with more than 130 kennels for dogs and cats, providing a facility for the east side of the city, Stafford said. Currently, ARL adoption facilities are housed at its 5452 NE 22nd St. office, 7 miles north of the existing shelter. The new wing has community rooms for people to socialize with dogs and cats as well as space for training and play groups. Stafford and Colvin said the facility also offers high-tech and environmentally conscious features, such as self-contained rooms with air cleaned by ultraviolet light to keep animals healthy. The building itself is powered by the city's solar field. The cat kennels are larger than those at the current shelter and include bubble windows and space for litter pans. The dog kennels, which have skylights, are sized to fit large dogs like Great Danes and Pyrenees and can be reconfigured to provide even more space. The shelter has separate food prep areas for dogs and cats. The services wing on the other side of the building will manage lost pets, vaccinations, spaying and neutering services, a pet pantry, veterinary care, microchipping and a shelter for crisis situations if, for example, a pet owner needs to temporarily leave a pet in the organization's care. The city of Des Moines' new animal shelter, operated by the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, includes more than 200 kennels for dogs and cats, and a surgical suite. The facility, located at 1441 Harriet St. and twice the size of the current shelter, is slated to open in mid-December of 2023. The facility also includes a surgical suite with an exam room, an X-ray machine, pre- and post-operative holding space, a waiting area for pets, a washer and dryer and isolation space for sick pets, Stafford said. In addition, there is a decontamination room where animals and staff exposed to chemicals, such as pepper spray, can wash off. Getting dogs outside is both the "ultimate enrichment" and critical to keeping dogs healthy, Stafford said. A grassy outdoor space will host multiple, large dog kennels and will have a walking trail where the dogs can play and socialize. The shelter will be open seven days a week, instead of the current five, with extended business hours. The organization also will add staffing, including adding three community officers to the current five who handle field calls, Stafford said. Officers will be assigned to certain districts across the city to make field calls more efficient. New pet measures could be on the horizon The city of Des Moines' new animal shelter, operated by the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, includes more than 200 kennels for cats and dogs. The facility, located at 1441 Harriet St. and twice the size of the current shelter, is slated to open in mid-December of 2023. At a council work session on Sept. 11, Colvin told council members the city should work to enact ordinances and city policy changes that are less punitive, and instead, take an educational approach to help residents meet their pets' welfare needs and address animals' behavioral concerns while ensuring public safety. If, for example, a pet gets out and ends up with the rescue league, it currently may cost the owner $150 to get it back, Colvin told the Register. "A lot of people may say, 'I can't afford that,' and walk away, where we want to see pets spayed or neutered, vaccinated, licensed, all of those things," he said. "If we can help them do that and get their pet back, then they won't just get another pet and start the whole process over." Among the recommendations Colvin made during the work session: Starting a trial program of waiving late pet licensing fees for first-time offenders. Making the pet licensing program a fully online process, using the license anniversary as the renewal date and considering multi-year licenses to coincide with longer vaccination periods. The city of Des Moines' new animal shelter, operated by the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, includes more than 200 kennels for dogs and cats. The facility, located at 1441 Harriet St. and twice the size of the current shelter, is slated to open in mid-December of 2023. Deputy City Manager Matt Anderson said the city staff and council will revisit some of the ordinance and policy-change initiatives suggested by ARL at the start of 2024. Correction: The captions in this article initially described the size of the new facility incorrectly. It is double the size of the existing facility. Virginia Barreda is the Des Moines city government reporter for the Register. She can be reached at vbarreda@dmreg.com. Follow her on Twitter at @vbarreda2. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: What's inside the Animal Rescue League's new Des Moines shelter? Another one of Wichitas big annual beer festivals is coming back for another year, and this time, itll include brewers on a bucking mechanical bull. The Prairieland Beer & Music Festival, which was founded in 2018 by the Kansas Craft Brewers Guild, had its first two installments at Wave, the big music venue at 650 E. Second St., then made its post-COVID return last year by taking over Hyde Park, which sits across the street from Central Standard Brewing. The event went well last year, said festival organizer Andy Boyd, and people enjoyed sipping Kansas craft beer under the parks big tree canopy. So the festival is returning there for its 2023 installment, which is scheduled for 1 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday at the park, 201 S. Greenwood. This years festival, Boyd said, will feature 40 breweries from around the state who will bring more than 100 different beers to sample from a provided festival sampling glass. Tickets, which are $49 online or at the gate, give attendees access to all the beers plus the chance to hear New Orleans-style music by headliners Moonpie Brass Band. Local favorites Josue Estrada Band also will perform. Boyd laughs every time he mentions a new attraction hes secured for Saturdays festival: a mechanical bull. Not only will attendees get to watch local brewers go head-to-head in a bull-riding competition, but people also can take rides themselves. Bull rides are free for festival ticket holders. Food trucks, including Big Bs Beef, also will be serving at the festival. The festivals charity partner, Beauties & Beasts, will also be at the event with adoptable dogs. Boyd said that between 400 and 500 people attended last years event, and he expects a similar crowd this year. Most of the Wichita breweries will be in attendance as well as several from around the state, including frequent award winners Blind Tiger from Topeka. This festival really represents the Kansas breweries, Boyd said. Its put on by the Kansas Craft Brewers Guild, and thats its focus: showcasing what Kansas has to offer. Tickets to the festival are available at the gate or in advance at central-standard-brewing-llc.ticketleap.com Photo: Chung Chow, BIV. Deltaport expansion would increase container handling capacity by 30 per cent for the West Coast of Canada. Nearly a decade after it entered the environmental review process, Roberts Bank Terminal 2 in Delta has been given the green light by B.C.s ministers of Environment and Transportation. The provincial environmental assessment certificate was issued for the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority's terminal expansion project today several months after the federal government issued its own environmental certificate. The $3.5 billion Roberts Bank Terminal 2 expansion project is a proposed three-berth marine container terminal. It will require widening the existing causeway to accommodate additional rail, road and utilities and expanded tug-boat basin. The environmental assessment for the project was conducted by a federal review panel on behalf of both levels of government. It was first referred to the BC Environmental Assessment Office in 2014. The B.C. certificate comes with16 legally enforceable conditions, including: a wetlands management plan to reduce negative impacts on wetlands; a land vegetation and wildlife management plan to reduce negative impacts on land-based plants and animals; environmental management plans for construction and operations to reduce noise and vibration and plan for emergency response and spill prevention; and a greenhouse-gas reduction plan for emissions, including net-zero by 2050. While two parties are seeking judicial review of the federal decision to approve the project, the ministers determined not to delay issuing the provincial certificate to ensure the project was not advanced without provincial interests within provincial jurisdiction being addressed and effects being mitigated within their ability to do so through certificate conditions, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy said in a news release. The terminal expansion plan includes doubling the footprint of the current 85-hectare Deltaport container terminal with offshore landfill. In terms of container capacity, the expanded terminal would add an estimated 2.4 million 20-foot-equivalent units (TEUs) for the Port of Vancouver. That would increase the overall container capacity on Canadas West Coast by 30 per cent. -- With files from Timothy Renshaw The second Republican presidential debate of 2023 was rife with anti-transgender sentiment, with trans people being called mentally ill and promises from candidates to ban gender-affirming health care. It was also marked by the usual GOP talking points: cut taxes, cut spending, cut regulations, allow school choice, ban critical race theory, close the borders, promote fossil fuels, stop abortion, put down teachers unions. The Wednesday night debate was held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif. The participants were seven of the eight who were in the first debate last month in Milwaukee: North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis , former U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley , former Vice President Mike Pence , entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy , and U.S. Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina. Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson , who was in the previous debate, did not meet the standards to qualify for Wednesdays event. Donald Trump , still the front-runner in the polls for the GOP presidential nomination, skipped this debate, as he did the first. He instead did his version of counterprogramming, with a rally at a nonunion auto parts factory near Detroit, even though he was ostensibly courting union votes. A mix of union and nonunion workers attended, but very few of those were United Auto Workers members who are on strike against car manufacturers. It was broadcast on the Fox News Channel and Fox Business Network and various streaming and online platforms, with a Spanish-language version on Univision. Fox News host Dana Perino, Fox Business Network host Stuart Varney, and Univision anchor Ilia Calderon moderated. Transphobia reared its ugly head early in the second hour, in the context of education and parental notification if a student uses a name or pronoun at school that doesnt match their birth name or gender. Ramaswamy quickly said, Transgenderism, especially in kids, is a mental health disorder. It is not compassionate to affirm a kids confusion. That is not compassion, that is cruelty. Major medical and mental health organizations do not consider transgender identity a mental disorder. Ramaswamy said lack of parental notification and involvement increases the risk of youth suicide ignoring the fact that mandatory notification would put young trans people at risk of this or various other bad outcomes if their parents are not supportive. I will ban genital mutilation or chemical castration, he added, noting that hed met two young women on the campaign trail who regretted undergoing transition procedures. Transition regret is actually very rare, and right-wing activists around the country have been highlighting the experiences of a few over and over again. Shortly afterward, when Calderon asked Pence what hed do about rising anti-LGBTQ+ violence, the former vice president said, Ill stand up for the safety and civil liberties of every American of every background, then pivoted to gender-affirming care. Were going to pass a federal ban on transgender chemical or surgical surgery anywhere in the country, he said. Like Ramaswamy, he did not say if he meant this just for young people or for adults as well. Genital surgery, by the way, is almost never performed on minors, and parents or guardians are almost always involved in medical decisions. Weve got to protect our kids from this radical gender ideology agenda, Pence continued. Also, as he has done previously, he railed against the Linn-Marr Community School District in Iowa, saying it had a policy that required parental permission for a Tylenol but not a gender transition plan. In truth, the district didnt offer, by any means, transition plans that included medical procedures, but it merely allowed trans and gender-nonconforming students to use the restrooms and changing rooms of their choice, stated that school staff would respect their identities (including their pronouns), and not disclose their status to parents or guardians without their consent. The district had to revoke the restroom policy after the state passed a law saying students in public schools had to use the facilities for the gender they were assigned at birth. DeSantis, for his part, boasted about his states parental rights law, widely dubbed the dont say gay or trans law because it bans instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity in public schools. And when asked about student debt forgiveness, he worried aloud that if colleges and universities have more resources, theyll expand their gender studies departments. He also claimed falsely that Floridas standards on teaching African American history say that there was anything positive about slavery. First of all, thats a hoax that was perpetrated by Kamala Harris, he said. Second of all, that was written by descendants of slaves. However, the standards include this sentence, which was criticized by Vice President Harris: Slaves developed skills which, in some instances, could be applied for their personal benefit. Whats more, as The New York Times notes in its fact-check of the debate, there were some Black members on the task force that developed the standards, but some Black history scholars have denounced the standards and said they were sidelined from the process of drafting them in favor of political appointees. U.S. Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, the debates only Black participant, did say there were no redeeming qualities to slavery, but he claimed it was harder for African Americans to recover from President Lyndon Johnsons Great Society programs designed to lift all Americans out of poverty than from slavery and post-slavery discrimination. The debate was marked by the usual rhetoric against abortion rights and assertions that Democrats would allow abortion until the moment of birth, which is not true. DeSantis distanced himself a bit from Trump, who recently criticized the Florida governor for signing a bill into law that banned abortion after six weeks of pregnancy, and DeSantis critiqued the former president right back. He further denied that abortion is a losing issue for his party, saying, I reject this idea that pro-lifers are to blame for midterm defeats. Christie bragged of denying funding to Planned Parenthood which provides contraception and many other health care services in addition to abortion when he was governor of New Jersey. Pence said he will build bridges to every community in this country, and it begins with the unborn." There were many calls for stopping undocumented immigrants from coming into the U.S., even though Reagan, as the moderators pointed out, granted amnesty to millions when he was president. Ramaswamy even urged an end to birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to undocumented immigrants. Plus there was the demonization of teachers unions, with Christie saying the unions are running public schools, not the public, and saying the unions have an ally in the White House because President Biden is sleeping with a member of the teachers union. First Lady Jill Biden teaches in a community college and is a member of the National Education Association. Pence later noted that his wife is a teacher too, although not a union member. The solution most offered to problems facing education is school choice, which generally means offering parents public funds to pay tuition at private schools. Haley said schools need to quit focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and critical race theory the latter not being taught outside of higher education anyway and DeSantis said the problem of schools is that theyre indoctrinating students. The candidates frequently talked over and interrupted each other, and in addition to DeSantis, there were some willing to criticize Trump for his absence. Ramaswamy called Trump an excellent president but said his America first agenda wasnt limited to one man. But when moderators asked which candidate each participant would vote off the island, Christie said, Id vote Donald Trump off the island right now. This came even though Christie supported Trump in 2016. Christie got off another line against Trump earlier in the evening, criticizing him for not joining in the debate. Youre not here tonight, Christie said. Not because of polls, and not because of your indictments. Youre not here tonight, because youre afraid of being on the stage and defending your record. Youre ducking these things. And let me tell you whats going to happen if you keep doing that. No one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore. Were going to call you Donald Duck. That was about the only reference in the debate to the many indictments Trump is facing for possession of classified documents and efforts to reverse the results of the 2020 election. Nor was there a reference to a New York judges recent finding that Trump had committed fraud in running his businesses. GLAAD issued a statement denouncing the rampant transphobia in the debate and Pence's lack of an answer to the question about violence. Instead of addressing the critical issue of the safety and rights of all Americans, GOP primary candidates ignored the rise in violence and hateful rhetoric aimed at the LGBTQ community and our allies," said GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis. Several chose to continue making false claims about transgender people and their basic human rights to safety, health care and access to education. LGBTQ people and topics continue to be weaponized by politicians looking to score political points, and these false and harmful statements must continue to be challenged by all reporters, and our lives and experiences included in political conversations. Univisions Ilia Calderon asked an essential question about our vulnerable community. Voters and reporters must demand answers so all Americans can make informed choices about the candidates and their commitment to the truth as well as the health and safety of every citizen. GLAAD also noted that "transgenderism," the term used by Ramaswamy, "is used by anti-transgender activists to dehumanize transgender people and reduce who they are to 'a condition' or a 'dangerous ideology' and medical consensus states that being transgender is not a mental health condition." "Gender ideology" is another term used by anti-trans forces, the group adds. GLAAD further pointed out that Ramaswamy and Pence gave "inflammatory" descriptions of gender-affirming health care and that such care is supported by medical consensus as well. The moderators did not ask the candidates to provide any evidence for their claims about gender-affirming care. Pictured, from left: Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, Tim Scott, and Mike Pence On Wednesday (Sept. 27) morning, an international team of physicists reported a major finding about an elusive form of matter known as antimatter. It appears that antimatter responds to gravity the same way regular matter does. This result marks the first-ever direct observation of free-falling antimatter , in which atoms are made of antiprotons instead of protons and antielectrons (positrons) instead of electrons . Antiprotons are basically negatively charged protons (protons are positive in normal matter atoms) and positrons are positively charged electrons (electrons are negative in normal matter atoms ). Yeah, it's weird. More specifically to the recent story, the team's feat ultimately proved that atomic antihydrogen in particular made up of one antiproton in the center with a positively charged positron orbiting around it is pulled downward due to gravity instead of upward like you might expect with a form of matter that presents as the "opposite" of normal matter, which, as we know, falls downward with gravity as well. Furthermore, close to three decades after antihydrogen was first created in a lab, today's scientific triumph is yet another confirmation of Einstein's general theory of relativity , which predicts that all masses, irrespective of differences in their internal structures, react to gravity in a similar manner. "If you walk down the halls of this department and ask the physicists, they would all say that this result is not the least bit surprising. That's the reality," Jonathan Wurtele, a physics professor at the University of California at Berkeley who first proposed the experiment over a decade ago and a co-author of the new study, said in a statement . "But most of them will also say that the experiment had to be done because you never can be sure." Related: Large Hadron Collider may be closing in on the universe's missing antimatter Capturing the miniscule Wurtele and his team created, trapped and studied antihydrogen particles at The European Center for Nuclear Research (better known by its French acronym, CERN). The particles were trapped within what was essentially a magnetic bottle, both ends of which contained controllable magnetic fields. To witness the effects of gravity, which is the weakest of the four known forces, on the antihydrogen particles, researchers reduced the magnetic field strength at each end to let the particles escape. When each particle wandered to the top or bottom of the magnetic bottle, it zapped in a flash. Researchers then counted those flashes and found a higher number wandered to the bottom of the bottle compared to the top. A staggering 80% of them behaved in such a way, in fact, and this result held true for a dozen repeats of the experiment. According to the new study, that conclusively demonstrated that gravity causes the antihydrogen to fall downward. "This gives us a powerful experimental knob that allows us, basically, to believe the experiment actually worked because we can prove to ourselves that we can control the experiment in a predictable manner," Joel Fajans, a physics professor at UC Berkeley and a co-author of the new study, said in the statement . The team also found that the gravitational acceleration of antihydrogen was close to that of normal matter, which is 9.8 meters (32 feet) per second squared. That result is expected to hold true for other antimatter particles too, researchers say. "It would be doubly surprising if this was not true (first, that something fell up, and second that there was a difference with antihydrogen)," Fajans told Space.com in an email. However, though the latest findings rule out theories that posit antimatter is repelled by gravity, only more precise measurements will tell if there is any difference in the gravitational force on antimatter compared to matter. Nonetheless, by achieving the first direct observation of gravitational effects on antihydrogen, researchers mark the beginning of detailed and direct pursuit of the gravitational nature of antimatter, which remains puzzlingly scarce in the universe . If matter and antimatter act so similarly, where's the universe's missing antimatter? That is still an open question. During the Big Bang , the universe is believed to have been rich with pairs of matter and antimatter particles, with the latter considered matter's mirror as its particles sport the same mass except for an opposite electrical charge. If matter and antimatter particles come into contact, they wipe out each other in a violent flash that leaves behind pure energy, so matter and antimatter particles are always created and destroyed in pairs. Related Stories: How the antimatter-hunting Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer works (infographic) How much of the universe is dark matter? Stars made of antimatter could exist in the Milky Way In theory, that means the universe should feature nothing but leftover energy, at least according to the Standard Model of particle physics that outlines our current best understanding of how fundamental particles behave under those four aforementioned forces. But, that symmetry was broken down sometime during the evolution of the universe such that we clearly see matter dominating the observable universe. This is simply beyond what the Standard Model can explain. Thus, the processes that tipped the scales such that so little antimatter was left behind remain yet unknown. "Unfortunately since our answers are consistent with general relativity, they do not shine any light on the scarcity of antimatter," Fajans told Space.com in an email. Fajans added that he anticipates the precision of the current experiment can be improved by a factor of 100 in the future. "This may lead to something new but of course we have no idea yet if that is to be the case. Most would say it is unlikely, but still worth pursuing." The findings were published by the Antihydrogen Laser Physics Apparatus (ALPHA) collaboration at CERN on Wednesday (Sept. 27) in the journal Nature. There have been numerous reports saying the new iPhone 15 Pro can encounter overheating issues. Apple confirmed that a bug in iOS 17 and various third-party app updates are contributing to heating issues. Apple said a software fix is in the works. Apple said it will fix a bug it found in iOS 17 that is causing overheating issues in iPhones, and is working with developers to ensure their apps don't overload the devices. There's been widespread reports from users saying the iPhone 15 Pro, which was released on September 22, has been overheating in some cases, to the point where a customer feels the phone's too hot to even hold. There appear to have been similar complaints about the iPhone 14 Pro as well, but not at the same volume or severity. Apple said in a statement to multiple news outlets they "found a bug in iOS 17 that is impacting some users and will be addressed in a software update." The company also attributed the issue to normal overheating caused by increased background activity when setting up a new phone or restoring a device, as well as "recent updates to third-party apps that are causing them to overload the system." Apple says it is in the process of working with the third-party app developers on solutions to this which are currently being implemented. Two Insider editors with iPhone 15 Pros said they noticed the phone was much warmer when charging, though they agreed that the temperature was still at a level where they could hold the iPhone. One of our editors noted, however, that the higher temperatures persisted off the charger when running games or intensive apps like Google Maps. The Wall Street Journal previously conducted its own tests and found that their iPhone 15 Pro Max reached 106 degrees Fahrenheit while charging, and 112 degrees when charging and doing other intensive tasks. The publication also published a video showing its thermal tests on the phone. Some iPhone 15 Pro owners have taken to social media sites in the US and China to complain about the issue. One Twitter user posted a video of themselves taking a temperature reading of the back of their iPhone 15 it hit 42 degrees Celsius, or about 108 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the video. In a discussion forum on Apple's website, one user complained that their iPhone 15 Pro got hot enough that it was uncomfortable to hold after just 10 minutes streaming videos over wifi with the screen at 30% brightness, noting that the battery also dropped by 15% in the same period of time. Bloomberg reported that Apple tech support agents have been fielding complaints about iPhone 15 Pro models getting too hot and directing customers to an existing support page about what to do if your iPhone or iPad gets too hot or too cold. On the support page, Apple acknowledges that iPhones can feel hotter when you set up the device for the first time, restore it from a backup, wirelessly charge your phone, or play graphically demanding games or stream high-quality video. The iPhone 15 Pro is the first phone from Apple made with a titanium frame. Justin Sullivan / Getty Images Notably, Apple has not attributed any of the overheating issues to the titanium frame on iPhone 15 Pro models, pushing back on a theory from noted Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Kuo said in a Medium post that he believes any overheating issues are primarily caused by "compromises made in the thermal system design to achieve a lighter weight" related to the titanium frame. In other words, the titanium casing may make it more difficult for heat to dissipate from the phone, causing overheating. Apple told CNET that the titanium frame and aluminum substructure aren't contributing to the issue, and actually dissipate heat better than the stainless steel used in prior Pro models. The iPhone 15 Pro is the first smartphone made by Apple that features a titanium frame. Read the original article on Business Insider A child was hospitalized after the child accidentally shot themself Wednesday, according to Phoenix police. Police said officers responded to a shooting at 5:30 p.m. at an apartment complex located near 22nd Avenue and Camelback Road, where a "young child" had reportedly "accidentally shot themselves." Police said the child was taken to the hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening. Details of what led up to the incident were under investigation, according to Phoenix police. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Child hospitalized after accidental shooting in Phoenix FILE - People with the group No Labels hold signs during a rally on Capitol Hill in Washington, July 18, 2011. More than 15,000 people in Arizona have registered to join a new political party floating a possible bipartisan unity ticket against Joe Biden and Donald Trump. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) PHOENIX (AP) Arizona's top elections official says the No Labels party can't block candidates from using its ballot line to run for office, boosting opponents' efforts to force the movement for a third-party presidential ticket to release more information about its anonymous donors. A senior official for Secretary of State Adrian Fontes , a Democrat, rejected No Labels' request to exclude two people who have filed paperwork to run for state office without the support of the party's leadership. One of the two people opposes No Labels and is deliberately trying to force the party to comply with Arizona's campaign finance laws. Fontes' move was a victory for Democrats and other critics of former President Donald Trump who believe a third-party bid has no chance of winning the presidency but could spoil the election in Trumps favor. No Labels has already qualified for the ballot in 11 states including Arizona, where it has registered 15,000 voters more than President Joe Biden's 2020 margin of victory here. Democrats have long accused the group of unfairly hiding who is funding its work and tried to force No Labels to name its donors. The group says it isn't required to disclose donors under federal law and withholds information to protect their privacy. In a letter, Fontes' office told No Labels that he was obligated to accept statements of interest, the first step toward running for office, from anyone who meets the requirements to run. The letter, obtained by The Associated Press on Thursday, said refusing their paperwork would violate their rights. The Arizona Secretary of State disagrees with your assertion that a newly recognized political party can choose to deprive its own voters of their constitutionally protected freedom of association, State Elections Director Colleen Connor wrote in a Sept. 22 letter. No Labels promised to sue. It had asked Fontes to reject the two candidacies filed without its approval and argued it doesnt have to register as a political party under Arizona law or share its financial information because it only wants to compete for federal offices. Leaders said both Arizona law and the U.S. Constitution allow political parties to opt out of participating in an election. Political pressure dictated the writing of this letter, not the law, No Labels officials Jay Nixon and Benjamin Chavis Jr. said in a statement. Nixon is a former Democratic governor of Missouri and Chavis a former head of the NAACP. The Secretary of States one-page letter is not a serious response to the request by the No Labels Party of Arizona. Even if No Labels files and loses a lawsuit, it may not have to disclose its donors in Arizona. A complex set of laws outlines the circumstances which political groups are required to report financial information intended to influence an election. The No Labels Party of Arizona will register as a party if it raises and spends money, but it does not currently have a bank account, according to a No Labels official who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the group's internal operations. The group funds its activities through nonprofits based in Washington. Two potential candidates in Arizona have so far filed to run for office as No Labels party members: Tyson Draper for U.S. Senate and Richard Grayson for the state utility regulator, known as the Corporation Commission. Grayson, who supports Biden, recently compared his plan to a performance art piece. Alaska election officials also notified Grayson last week that hell appear on the primary ballot in that state for U.S. House as a No Labels candidate. Grayson, a perennial candidate, has previously run for U.S. House in Wyoming despite living in Arizona, noting House candidates are only required to live in the state where they were elected once they take office. Arizona, where Biden won by fewer than 11,000 votes in 2020 with a coalition that included conservative independents and moderate Republicans, is particularly vulnerable to a third-party ticket if it proves alluring to voters who dislike both candidates. The 2024 race is likely to be decided by a tiny margin in a handful of battleground states, just as the last two were. No Labels is said to be planning a $70 million effort, far more than any third-party candidate has amassed since Ross Perot's 1992 and 1996 campaigns, which failed to win any electoral votes. No Labels officials say they'll make a decision about whether to run a candidate after the Super Tuesday primaries in March. Arizona has drawn the toughest state-level resistance. The state Democratic Party filed a lawsuit to block No Labels from the ballot but lost in court. Later, the party filed a complaint urging Fontes to block the group from the ballot until it follows campaign finance laws. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Three armed robbers are accused of forcing their way into a restaurant in Whitehaven while holding employees at gunpoint. It was business as usual at the Cook Out location on Elvis Presley Boulevard in Whitehaven. However, new cooks were in the kitchen early Wednesday morning as three armed male suspects forced their way through an employee door. Memphis Police said just after 2 a.m., a woman told officers her male coworker knocked on the door during his smoke break to be let in. She said when she opened the door, three men came up behind him, forcing their way into the business. A man wearing a black Taco Bell shirt and ski mask forced the woman to lay on the ground while pointing a gun at her. This was alarming news for customers like Vanessa Morley. I just find it very shocking that they got robbed when they dont have no access to customers to get inside its drive-thru only, said Morley. MPD: Woman kidnaps roommate, threatens to burn down his home The victims told police all three suspects were armed with guns, demanding they give up their phones. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but police say the male victim was treated for chest pains on the scene. As Morley picked up her special made order Wednesday, she said she feels for the workers. Thats horrible. I couldnt imagine being a worker, Morley said. Having to get on the ground and they take your cellphones and everything. Id be terrified. I would be scared to come to work. You know they dont get paid a lot. MPD said the suspects managed to get $4,500 in cash from the register before running away. It definitely hurts the business and the community because you dont feel safe to even go out at two in the morning because what happens if you were here when it was going down, Morley said. MPD said there is surveillance video that should help them catch the suspects. If you know anything that could help detectives, call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. Authorities are searching for a teenager accused of being involved in the disappearance of an Atlanta student. Atlanta Public Schools police said they were looking for a 13-year-old David T. Howard Middle School student who was last seen walking out of the building shortly before 1 p.m. Wednesday. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] An Amber Alert for the teen was issued Wednesday night, saying she was believed to have been abducted by 16-year-old Emmanuel Williams. Authorities did not say how the teens knew each other. Early Thursday, school officials confirmed that the 13-year-old was dropped off in a northwest Atlanta neighborhood. A neighbor saw her photo on the news and called 911. TRENDING STORIES: APS police obtained warrants for Williams for kidnapping and fleeing/attempting to elude a police officer. Both charges are felony charges. Authorities have not provided additional details regarding the investigation. Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call 911. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: After weeks of tangling with the Anti-Defamation League, on Thursday Elon Musk defended his social media platform, X, against claims that it has facilitated anti-Semitismand he did it in bizarre fashion. In a conversation with conservative author Ben Shapiro, he cast himself as pro-Semitic, noting that he had attended a Jewish preschool in South Africa and that his first name is common in Israel. (Elon means oak tree in Hebrew.) Now I dont know if Im sort of genetically Jewish or what, Musk said. Maybe somewhere. But Id say Im aspirationally Jewish, let me put it that way. Later, he added that he was aware of that old trope of, like, you know, I have a Jewish friend. In Musks case, he said, I dont have a Jewish friend. I think probably I have twice as many Jewish friends as non-Jewish friends. Thats why I think, in some respects, I think I am Jewish basically. Musk said he has visited the Western Wall in Jerusalem and has also been to Masada, an ancient fortress in the Israeli desert once besieged by the Romans. Ive been to Masada twice, he emphasized. I dont know how many people can say that. As for other elements of Jewish culture he endorses: I wouldnt say the Hava Nagila is the best but its pretty, pretty good, he said, referring to the Hebrew song often sung at weddings. Elon Musks Unfounded Attacks on a Las Vegas Reporter Are a New Low in His Thuggery The Anti-Defamation Leaguewhich has a stated mission of working to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure justice and fair treatment to allis one of numerous nonprofits that criticized Musk after his takeover of Twitter last year. Following the acquisition, Musk axed many of the companys content moderation staffers, and his espoused belief in free speech raised concerns that he was letting hate speech run rampant. (Musk has denied that accusation, though he has separately been accused of bending his free-speech principles to serve his own interests.) Earlier this month, Musk assailed the ADL, alleging that the group was trying to kill this platform by falsely accusing it & me of being anti-Semitic. He said that the companys advertising revenue in the United States was still down 60 percent, primarily due to pressure on advertisers by @ADL, and that he was considering filing a lawsuit over the matter. (The groups CEO, Jonathan Greenblatt, called the threats frivolous.) In a statement, a spokesperson for the ADL told The Daily Beast, Israel and Jews are frequently targets of hateful antisemitic and anti-Zionist invectives on Twitter/X. At the end of the day, the way to judge any conversations or policies is in whether they reduce the amount of antisemitic hate on the platform. Musk sought to use Thursdays Twitter Space to reset the narrative in his favor. He said he had consulted his many Jewish friends about accusations of anti-Semitism on X and that they did not see anything either. The billionaire also used the moment as an opportunity to defend Russell Brand, the comedian turned right-wing media personality accused of multiple instances of sexual assault. Why now? he said, suggesting that Brand was only targeted because of his alignment with right-wing causes. Musk claimed he had spoken to female friends who worked closely with [Brand] and they said that he was actually a gentleman. I think were running out of conspiracy theories that didnt turn out to be true, 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. An Arizona State University student who was arrested after being suspected of spray-painting swastikas and other pro-Nazi graffiti on the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism's campus in downtown Phoenix admitted to the act, according to court documents. Court documents obtained by The Arizona Republic say ASU police arrested 27-year-old Denis Zyalik on Wednesday evening after reviewing surveillance camera footage and building card access readers. Footage showed Zyalik in the area where the vandalism occurred with a plastic bag and leaving the area without one. Documents said officers approached Zyalik at a classroom in the school's law building in downtown Phoenix and asked him to join them at a nearby police station to interview him about the graffiti, which he did. Zyalik later admitted to being behind the vandalism, documents said. ASU police arrested Zyalik and submitted a charge of aggravated criminal damage, a Class 5 felony, to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office. Documents said Zyalik was released on his own recognizance and is next scheduled to appear in Maricopa County Superior Court on Oct. 12. Documents said Zyalik lived in Tempe. Prior to Zyalik's arrest, Rebecca Blatt, senior associate dean at the Cronkite School, sent an email to students Wednesday morning warning them about the graffiti and that it would be removed once ASU police had collected what it needed from the scene. Blatt said the graffiti was spray painted on signage promoting a photo exhibit called "Relentless Courage" featuring work from photographers covering the war between Ukraine and Russia. Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelensky, is Jewish. The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at the ASU Downtown Phoenix Campus on April 11, 2014. The building opened in 2008. ASU President Michael Crow condemned the pro-Nazi vandalism in a written statement to The Arizona Republic. Let there be no confusion that while ASU vigorously protects freedom of expression for all members of our community, we recognize the difference between that constitutional right and activities orchestrated to provoke, incite or agitate with the intention of creating an environment of intimidation and fear," Crow said. "We see those who perpetrate such actions under the cover of darkness for what they are: weak and hateful fear-mongers and cowards. An ASU spokesperson said the university had removed the graffiti by Wednesday afternoon. Court documents estimated the incident caused about $2,000 in property damage. The spokesperson didn't say if ASU would seek to expel Zyalik, noting that "legal and disciplinary processes" needed to be fulfilled before it could make a decision. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: ASU student admits to pro-Nazi graffiti at downtown Phoenix campus MEMPHIS, Tenn. Shots were fired after four suspects attempted to rob a clothing store in Whitehaven Wednesday, Memphis Police say. MPD says at around 7:30 p.m., officers responded to a shooting at The Spot Inc. in the 4600 block of Faronia Drive. Four males reportedly tried to rob the store at gunpoint. During the incident, the store owner and the suspects fired multiple shots at each other. A 16-year-old male suspect was shot and taken to Methodist South. He was later airlifted to Regional One Hospital, and is currently in critical condition, reports say. A second suspect arrived at the hospital and was taken into custody without incident. Sign up for WREG newsletters and have the latest top stories sent right to your inbox. Download the WREG App today and stay up to date with breaking news and weather. See more breaking news, local news and weather from WREG.com for Memphis and the Mid South. This remains an ongoing investigation, according to police. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. One month after Capital Public Radio announced layoffs of 12% of its workforce and its interim chief warned it barely had enough cash to continue, an audit released Wednesday found significant financial problems that led Sacramento State President Luke Wood to announce the university is assuming operational control of the NPR member station. One thing is abundantly clear: We have real and immediate work to do to ensure CapRadios financial controls and operational processes are disciplined, sound, and transparent going forward, Wood said in a statement. The financial implications of CapRadios mismanagement have significant consequences for Sacramento State, but we will make it through. Now is the time for the community to continue its support for CapRadio. Given the changes the university and CapRadio board are putting into place, donors should feel confident moving forward that their generous contributions will be well stewarded. Wood outlined a series of moves to have CapRadios accounting, endowment and financial operations be overseen by the university rather than CapRadio management and its board of directors. A chief content officer overseeing CapRadios programming will remain a CapRadio employee, ensuring CapRadios journalistic independence, the university said. Wood also ordered yet another forensic examination to delve deeper into the details of how the operation became so troubled. That is expected to be completed early next year. The moves stem from an audit initiated by former Sacramento State President Robert Nelsen last year after university officials recognized discrepancies in financial statements, the university said. The 33-page audit released Wednesday found a number of management failings, including annual audits by an outside firm that have been identified as potentially inaccurate, the audit said. This embedded content is not available in your region. Among the findings cited in the audit: More than $1.1 million in studio equipment and furniture loans were taken out without approval by CapRadios board. These loans were signed by the executive vice president and (general manager), an individual who did not have written delegation of authority from the board. Credit card charges were not properly reviewed and, in some cases, late fees and charges over the card limit were incurred. CapRadio accepted gifts without written delegation of authority from the campus president and processed an $85,000 gift-in-kind that actually was a discounted purchase of a piano that is now in storage. The operation did not have written agreements with either of the two entities that handled vehicle donations to CapRadio as a fundraising device. And CapRadio was not doing enough to involve students in its operations, a traditional educational byproduct of campus broadcast operations. The audit also found that an $8 million loan from the university to CapRadio was not properly executed and that CapRadio had fallen behind its repayment schedule by $1.8 million as of July. The university said the audit findings detail long-standing issues, including a lack of financial and governance processes and protocols, lines of credit and loans secured without campus approval or CapRadio Board of Directors awareness, submission of inaccurate or incomplete financial information to the board, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, external auditors, and the University, and much more. The audit comes as CapRadio has had to contend with difficulties from the pandemic, as well as falling revenue and expenses from construction projects for two new buildings it leased downtown for a new headquarters and performance space. CapRadio also is in the midst of a 15-year, $2 million radio tower relocation project for the tower that transmits KXPRs classical and jazz music station. Sac State owns the license for CapRadios two stations KXJZ-FM (90.9) and KXPR-FM (88.9) and CapRadio also operates North State Public Radio, which has two stations owned by Chico State. An audit of CapRadios finances as of June 30, 2022, found the operation had total liabilities of more than $27.2 million compared to liabilities the year before of about $5.5 million. That audit found CapRadio had total net assets of about $13.2 million as of June 30, 2022, compared to about $14.6 million the previous year. Capital Public Radios new performance space, CapRadio Live, at the corner of Eighth and J streets in downtown Sacramento is pictured on Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023. The station has not yet moved from its offices at Sacramento State. Because of its financial difficulties, CapRadio had been unable to pay Sacramento State the $17,787 monthly rent on its existing on-campus headquarters, and on Aug. 30 CapRadio announced the layoffs of 15 workers and canceled four music programs. The announcement came weeks after CapRadios board of directors brought in Tom Karlo, a longtime Southern California public broadcasting executive, to serve as interim general manager. Karlo, who was brought in at Woods urging, replaced Jun Reina, who served as general manager and vice president as the operation continued its expansion efforts. He announced his decision to step down from the station in March. Reina could not be reached for comment Wednesday; a message left at a phone listing for him was not returned. CapRadio Board Chair Andrea Clark also did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The audit found that CapRadio had taken out six five-year loans totaling $1.3 million for furniture and studio equipment between August 2022 and February 2023, but that the documents were not signed by the thirdparty vendors. In addition, we were unable to fully verify the purchase of these equipment and furniture during our walk-through, the audit said. Per CPR management, these assets were in boxes stored onsite, as well as at a paid offsite facility, while the newly leased locations are still being renovated. In our review of the finance committee minutes, we found board approval for only one of these loans, in the amount of $245,524. There was no board approval documented for the additional studio equipment and furniture loans noted above. The auditors also questioned the extent to which CapRadio was using its operations to benefit Sac State students. Based on discussions with campus and CPR management, we noted that CPR did not have handson student involvement in staffing, internships, or programming and therefore did not appear to provide any instructionally related activities for the benefit of Sacramento State students, the audit found. We also noted that the campus has a studentrun radio station that is not affiliated with CPR. And, the audit found that CapRadios tracking of donations to its operations was sloppy. We also selected 20 cash receipts and reviewed them to ensure that deposits were appropriately reviewed and verified, accurately recorded, and timely deposited, the audit said. However, we found that CPR did not maintain adequate documentation for 18 of the 20 deposits, all of which related to donations, and therefore were unable to complete our review. For example, documentation, such as deposit slips, batch summary reports, check deposit logs, and copies of checks, was not always retained. There also were questions about how some travel expenses were handled, including a $10,000 hotel bill. For three travel expenses, the travel authorization form was not retained, as required by CPR policy, the audit found. Additionally, two travel claims did not have receipts to support reimbursable charges. There was also an unexplained discrepancy between a credit card charge of $10,611.80 that was paid by CPR and the corresponding hotel bill of $10,000, and itemized receipts were not provided for a travel expense of $7,478.75. The operations vehicle donation program also had problems, the audit found, with CapRadio recording the value of one vehicle as $27,917 in one place and $21,917 in another. In conversations with CPR, we learned that this was their standard practice for recording vehicle donations, the audit found. By recording the gross amount in the donor system, CPR received higher funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), which provides matching funds for gifts raised by CPR. It was unclear whether this method of reporting (gift-in-kind) values to CPB was appropriate. The audit also found problems with CapRadios oversight of its expenses. For five expenditures totaling $48,576, no supporting documentation was provided, the audit found. These expenditures included payments for credit cards, underwriting, equipment, and gift cards. For eight expenditures totaling $87,917, only the invoice was provided. These expenditures are related to items such as consulting services, training and subscriptions. Appropriate supporting documentation would have included a fully executed contract or agreement, check payment, and management approval. CapRadio recently ran its on-air listener fundraising drive, urging listeners to donate by citing its financial problems and asking for the communitys help, and Wood noted in his statement the importance of the operation to the region. We are fighting to save our auxiliary, Wood said, referring to the operation. CapRadio has been part of the fabric of Sacramento and Northern California for decades. It is important to us to maintain the health and integrity of such a valuable and beloved media institution. Michael Vierra looks at his house for the first time after the wildfire in August, on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Mengshin Lin) LAHAINA, Hawaii (AP) Authorities in Maui are opening more of the burn zone from last month's devastating wildfire for visits by residents and property owners who lost homes. Early this week, officials began permitting those who lived in a small section in the north end of Lahaina to return for the first time since the Aug. 8 wildfire demolished the historic coastal town. Next Monday and Tuesday, residents of three more streets in that area will be allowed back, Maui County said in a news release Thursday. The wildfire killed at least 97 people, making it the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century, and destroyed more than 2,000 buildings, most of them homes. It first erupted in the morning when strong winds appeared to cause a Hawaiian Electric power line to fall, igniting dry brush and grass. The fire was initially declared contained, but one flared up again in the same area around 3 p.m. and raced through the town. Lawmakers probing the cause of the wildfire did not get many answers during a congressional hearing Thursday on the role the electrical grid played in the disaster. In the days after it, some people were able to return to their properties to evaluate the damage. But the burned area was subsequently made off-limits to all but authorized workers, including Environmental Protection Agency crews tasked with removing hazardous materials. Officials have urged returning residents not to sift through the ashes for fear of raising toxic dust. Some families have nevertheless sought to recover heirloom s and keepsakes from the ruins. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) According to some Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky investigators, thefts from United States postal boxes are on the rise. News 2 has been tracking some of these cases, including some with ties to Williamson County, Nashville, and Oak Grove, Kentucky. According to Oak Grove investigators, in April 2023, someone stole a $114,000 check out of a blue postal box in Nashville. 2 charged with forging checks stolen from Belle Meade mailboxes Detective Sgt. James Carter of the Oak Grove Police Department told News 2, It seems to be a major problem down there some how, getting into the mailboxes somehow and getting what they can and hoping to get lucky. According to Carter, a few days after the check was stolen, a woman police have now identified as Diane Walker deposited that stolen check at a bank in Oak Grove. Carter said another woman, identified as 36-year-old Enjolee Davis, made three withdrawals on that account for thousands of dollars; two of those transactions were made in Clarksville and one in Oak Grove. Somebody washed the name off of it who the money was for and then put Ms Davis companys name on there, Carter said. According to investigators, Davis company is Tactical Task Services LLC. The case went on for months before investigators got a break on the whereabouts of Davis. On Thursday, Sept. 21, deputies with the Williamson County Sheriffs Office stopped Davis with warrants on a routine traffic stop. After a background check, Davis was taken into custody. Thieves steal $100 check, wash & cash it for thousands of dollars Davis eventually posted a $50,000 bond and was given a court date in November. Meanwhile, Carter said Walkers whereabouts are still unknown. Ms. Walker has not been picked up on our NCIC warrant, Carter said. Regarding Davis, Carter said, Wed like her to come up to Oak Grove, Kentucky, and turn herself in so we can officially serve the warrant and get this matter taken care of. Oak Grove investigators said Enjolee Davis is wanted for theft by unlawful taking and possession of a forged instrument. Walker is also facing possession of a forged instrument warrants. In a similar but different case, Belle Meade investigators also worked a check theft incident where a man was accused of cashing a stolen check before being arrested. According to Belle Meade police, their case started at the Green Hills Post Office in January 2023, where someone reached into a post office box and stole a check written out for $53,000. One of our residents put a check for a property purchase in the post office box at Green Hills which was later stolen, Lt. Mack Mangrum said. According to Belle Meade investigators, a few days after the check was pilfered, it was cashed in Raleigh, North Carolina. 3 charged with stealing from train in Nashville According to investigators, Jason Lamont Pittman cashed the check that reportedly was now made out to him. News 2 obtained video from Friday, Sept. 22 outside the Belle Meade Police Department. According to police, the video shows Pittman turning himself in on warrants out of Belle Meade, some eight months after the check was first reported stolen. Pittman is charged with theft over $10,000 and forgery. He bonded out on $50,000 and is due back in court later this year. Police are still trying to determine who took the check from the Green Hills mail box and how they did it. Women wanted after theft in downtown Nashville In order to avoid becoming a victim, authorities urge you to check your mailbox every day and to not let mail sit in your mailbox. If you are at the post office, take your items inside and hand them directly to a letter carrier. News 2 reached out to the United States Postal Service for comment. A spokesperson wrote in part: The postal service considers safeguarding the security and sanctity of the mail of paramount importance. This includes ensuring our blue collection boxes are secure, safe and in good condition at all times. Customers are reminded that they can securely and safely deposit items in the lobby drop boxes inside our post offices. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Soldiers from the 1st and 2nd battalions of the Azov 12th Special Forces Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine have captured four servicemen of the Russian Army during the storming of Russian positions: among the prisoners are the commander of the 228th Motorised Rifle regiment, privates, as well as representatives of the Storm-Z unit. Surce: Azov on Telegram Details: The wounded prisoners of war were provided with the necessary medical care, as well as proper detention conditions, and were passed to the prisoner exchange pool. Azov calls on Russian servicemen to surrender in order to save their own lives and the opportunity to get back to their relatives. 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! BALTIMORE Tech entrepreneur Pava LaPere was found dead on the roof of her building, strangled and brutally beaten with a brick, court documents show. LaPere, 26, had blunt force trauma wounds to her head, face and body, according to a statement of charges filed in District Court of Maryland for Baltimore City. Pav LaPere. (pavamarie via Instagram) LaPere was half-clothed when authorities found her. The documents do not offer other details about the nature of the crime. Authorities found a brick, blood, three teeth, buttons, pants, a broken hair clip and a pair of red shoes near her body, the document shows. Her death was ruled a homicide by strangulation and blunt force trauma. The suspect in her killing, Jason Billingsley, 32, was arrested around 11 p.m. Wednesday without incident after a major manhunt. He is charged with multiple counts in LaPeres death, including first-degree murder and assault, according to court records. He is also charged with using a brick as a dangerous weapon. LaPere appeared to let Billingsley into the building Friday night, security video shows. A man whom authorities believe to be the suspect waved at her through the glass door to come over to him, documents show, after which she opened the door, spoke to him and let him inside. The two then got into the elevator. LaPere lived and worked in the building. Acting Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley said Thursday that he believes LaPere was killed Friday night. A worker found her body in the building Monday after she was reported missing. Worley said that investigators are still processing evidence to determine exactly what occurred and that they do not know whether there are any connections between the victim and the suspect. Billingsley was also suspected of raping a woman days before LaPere's death and was already under police surveillance, authorities said Thursday. Police, however, declined to tell the public about the incident because they believed it was "targeted," stirring up criticism that LaPere's death might have been avoided. In that incident, Billingsley is accused of slitting a womans throat and raping her several times during the night before tying her up with duct tape and lighting her on fire, court documents show. Billingsley is also alleged to have handcuffed the womans boyfriend and set him ablaze. The woman told authorities she heard a loud banging at the door on Sept. 19 by a man who said he worked for the buildings maintenance department. (Billingsley was a maintenance worker in the building.) The man, who was wearing a mask, then kicked in the front door and pointed a gun at her, documents show. Authorities found a backpack in the buildings back alley that contained many items, including a serrated knife, rolls of duct tape, handcuffs, bleach, a gas can, a lighter and clothing. Video from an earlier day showed him wearing the clothes that were found in the backpack, according to court documents. Worley said investigators know why Billingsley allegedly committed the crimes but said he did not want to "talk bad" about the victims. Billingsley was also sentenced in 2015 to 30 years in prison, with 16 years suspended, after he pleaded guilty to first-degree rape, online court records show. He was released from prison in October 2022 after earning "diminution credits" for good behavior, something allowed by state law, Baltimore City States Attorney Ivan J. Bates said. LaPere was the CEO and founder of the software startup EcoMap Technologies. In a statement, her family said they were relieved to know he can no longer hurt other innocent victims. While this doesnt change that Baltimore lost one of its most passionate, influential fans, our efforts remain focused on remembering and celebrating Pava Marie her life, successes, and legacy, the statement said. Antonio Planas reported from Baltimore and Melissa Chan from New York. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com During Wednesday night's Republican presidential debate, Vivek Ramaswamy described a meeting with the parents of Sebastian Kidd, an Iowa teenager who died in July 2021 after consuming fentanyl disguised as Percocet that he "boughton Snapchat." As is often the case with Ramaswamy's comments, his take on Sebastian's death was a mixture of sense and nonsense. The sense was Ramaswamy's recognition that substance abuse cannot be explained in purely pharmacological terms. The nonsense was his reflexive endorsement of the war on drugs, which is responsible for the circumstances that led to Sebastian's death. "It is our job to make sure that never happens," Ramaswamy said. "But it's also our job to make sure that 17-year-olds don't turn to Percocet via Snapchat. We have to bring back mental health care in this country, not with pumping pharmaceuticals, but [with] faith-based approaches that restore purpose and meaning in the next generation of Americans." Although Sebastian was "great on the outside," his father, Deric Kidd, told the CBS affiliate in Des Moines, he "went through a lot throughout his life, a lot of loss [and] a lot of pain.You saw the smiles and the laughter, and it was a joy to be around him. But I think he was trying to internalize a lot of things that he went through." When it comes to troubled teenagers (or adults), Ramaswamy is right to emphasize the importance of "purpose and meaning," the absence of which contributes to unhealthy relationships with drugs. Contrary to his implication, religion is just one source of purpose and meaning, which also can be found through secular pursuits and interpersonal connections. But even a well-adjusted teenager who wanted to try Percocet simply out of curiosity could have met the same fate as Sebastian. Instead of Percocet, a combination of acetaminophen and oxycodone in doses ranging from 2.5 to 10 milligrams, Sebastian got an unknown amount of fentanyl, a much more potent opioid. Before going to bed one night, according to his parents, he swallowed half a tablet, which proved to be a lethal dose. The hazard that killed Sebastian is a familiar feature of the black market created by drug prohibition: Consumers do not know what they are getting. Unlike prescription analgesics or a bottle of liquor, illegal drugs are highly variable and unpredictable. In recent years, that danger has been compounded by the proliferation of illicit fentanyl, which nowadays shows up not only in powder sold as heroin but also in stimulants such as cocaine and methamphetamine. It is also pressed into tablets that resemble pain pills. This development was driven by the economic incentives that prohibition creates. As a synthetic drug that does not require cultivation of opium poppies, fentanyl can be produced much more cheaply and discreetly than heroin. And because it is much more potent, it is easier to smuggle, allowing traffickers to pack many doses in small packages that are hard to detect. Thanks to the spread of fentanyl, which made potency even harder to predict, illegal drugs are a bigger crap shoot than ever before, as reflected in record numbers of drug-related deaths. The government made that situation worse by restricting the supply of prescription opioids, which left bona fide pain patients to suffer needlessly while driving nonmedical users toward much more dangerous substitutes. Unsurprisingly, Ramaswamy did not mention any of this, because it would implicate policies he supports in tragedies like Sebastian Kidd's death. When Univision's Ilia Calderon, one of the debate moderators, asked how he would "stop fentanyl brought into the country, mostly by U.S. citizens through ports of entry," Ramaswamy said the answer was to double down on a strategy that has failed for a century. "We do have to seal that southern border," he said. "Building the wall is not enough. They're building cartel-financed tunnels underneath that wall. Semitrucks can drive through them. We have to use our own military to seal the Swiss cheese of a southern border." The adaptiveness that Ramaswamy describes has always doomed efforts to "stop the flow" of illegal drugs, and it always will. Prohibition sows the seeds of its own failure by enabling traffickers to earn a hefty "risk premium," a powerful incentive that drives them to find ways around any roadblocks (literal or figurative) that drug warriors manage to create. Since the government cannot even keep drugs out of prisons, "seal[ing] that southern border"a 2,000-mile stretch that can be crossed in myriad waysmay be a bit harder than Ramaswamy suggests. As Calderon noted, "90 percent of fentanyl is seized at official border crossings, and 57 percent of the smugglers are U.S. citizens." Even if the government could create an impregnable barrier elsewhere, it could not monitor traffic through ports of entry intensively enough to make a serious dent in the fentanyl supply without imposing huge economic costs by disrupting trade and travel. And even if it accomplished that impossible feat, traffickers have alternatives, including water routes, the 5,500-mile border with Canada, and the mail, through which commercially viable quantities of fentanyl can be shipped in small packages, only a tiny fraction of which can be intercepted. "US government agencies have made considerable efforts to interdict fentanyl and its precursors from entering the US market, but the combination of its small size and high value makes this difficult," Roger Bate notes in a 2018 American Enterprise Institute report. "Mexican gangs and Chinese criminal enterprises find it easy to hide the products through a variety of transit methods." Even if the U.S. government "managed to stop 100 percent of direct sales to the US, enterprising dealers will simply sell into nations such as the UK, repackage the product, and then resell it into the US," Bate writes. "Intercepting all packages from the UK and other EU nations to the US will not be possible." Furthermore, "whether or not drugs are available to the general public via the mail, drug dealers have domestic production and overland and sea routes and other courier services that deliver the product to the US." Ramaswamy did not address any of these daunting challenges. But in addition to embracing the ever-appealing fantasy of stopping drug use through border control, he proposed a retail-level intervention. "If you're 16 years old or under," he said, "you should not be using an addictive social media product" like Snapchat. Never mind that the age restriction Ramaswamy imagines would not have affected Sebastian Kidd, whose death he cited to justify the policy. And never mind that highly motivated teenagers would find ways to evade social-media age limits. Since any technology that facilitates communication can be used to arrange drug purchases, Ramaswamy's proposal is a pitifully inadequate solution to the problem he is describing. "Why did [Sebastian] die?" Ramaswamy asked. "Because [the pill] was laced with fentanyl. That is closer to bio-terrorism, not a drug overdose. That is poisoning." Ramaswamy wants us to know he is outraged by the dishonest practices of illegal drug dealers. But like nearly every politician of both major parties, he gives no thought to the policies that invite such potentially lethal fraud, because he is too busy promoting them. The post Ban Teenagers From Social Media, Vivek Ramaswamy Says, Because Fentanyl appeared first on Reason.com. By Luc Cohen NEW YORK (Reuters) - Sam Bankman-Fried, the indicted founder of now-bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange FTX, may face a "very long sentence" if convicted at his fraud trial starting next week, the judge overseeing the case said on Thursday. U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan's comments came just before he denied the 31-year-old former billionaire's request to be released from jail temporarily during the trial to better help his lawyers mount his defense case. Kaplan said Bankman-Fried was a flight risk. "Your client in the event of conviction could be looking at a very long sentence," Kaplan said in a hearing in Manhattan federal court. "If things begin to look bleak maybe the time would come when he would seek to flee." Mark Cohen, Bankman-Fried's lawyer, said there was "nothing in the record" to suggest that his client would try to flee. He said Bankman-Fried had voluntarily consented to extradition from the Bahamas - where FTX was based - to the United States after his December 2022 arrest. Bankman-Fried has pleaded not guilty to seven counts of fraud and conspiracy stemming from FTX's collapse in November 2022. He faces a statutory maximum of 110 years in prison, though any sentence would be determined by Kaplan based on a range of factors and he would likely get far less. His lawyers asked Kaplan for temporary release earlier this week, arguing they could not speak with him after each trial day to prepare for the next day's witnesses and testimony, which they could not do if he were taken back to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn at the end of each trial day. Kaplan said on Thursday he was sympathetic to the defense's concerns, and would arrange for Bankman-Fried to arrive to court at 7 a.m. on most trial days to speak with his lawyers for several hours before testimony begins. Prosecutors say Bankman-Fried stole billions of dollars in FTX customer deposits to plug losses at Alameda Research, a crypto-focused hedge fund he controlled. They opposed Bankman-Fried's request for temporary release. On Thursday, prosecutor Danielle Kudla told Kaplan that Bankman-Fried had "ample opportunity to prepare for trial" during the 7-1/2 months he was free on bail at his parents' Palo Alto, California, home. Kaplan jailed him on Aug. 11 after finding he likely tampered with witnesses at least twice - including by sharing former Alameda chief executive officer Caroline Ellison's private writings with a New York Times reporter. Ellison, also Bankman-Fried's former romantic partner, is one of three former members of his inner circle who have pleaded guilty to fraud and are set to testify against him. Former FTX executives Gary Wang and Nishad Singh have also agreed to testify. Kaplan said on Thursday that prosecutors had requested that he grant two additional witnesses immunity from being charged with crimes in exchange for their testimony. He did not identify those witnesses. The trial starts on Oct. 3 and could last up to six weeks. (Reporting by Luc Cohen in New York, Editing by Nick Zieminski) In November 1997, Lewis was among the first and youngest children to face charges under SB440, mandating minors as young as 13 be tried as adults for committing certain offenses. One of Georgias youngest juveniles sentenced to an adult prison is home after 26 years behind bars. Michael Little B Lewis, now 40, left the Macon Transitional Facility on Wednesday morning after the Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles granted him provisional release last year. According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, he was 13 when he became the face of Georgias tough-on-crime policies more than two decades ago. There are a lot of things Ive never done because I was a child when I came in, Lewis said. After 26 years behind bars, 40-year-old Michael Little B Lewis, who was 13 when he became one of Georgias youngest juveniles sentenced to an adult, is now free. (Photo: Adobe Stock) The Fulton County district attorneys office charged Lewis in February 1997 with the shooting death of 23-year-old Darnell Woods, who was killed in a parked automobile outside a convenience store in Atlanta with his two young sons in the backseat. Fulton County DA Paul Howard and his office felt strongly about trying Lewis as an adult then. In November 1997, Lewis was among the first and youngest children to face charges under SB440, a law passed three years prior mandating that minors as young as 13 be recognized as adults and prosecuted in Superior Court for committing certain severe offenses. He received a life sentence for malice murder, making him eligible for release after 14 years, and served his sentence at the high security Lee Arrendale State Prison adult correctional facility. In 2003, The Condemnation of Little B, a book by activist and former Black Panther Party chairperson Elaine Brown examining the teens maligning at trial and the multiple systems that failed him, attracted national attention for Lewis case, revealing him as a school dropout with an absent father and mother addicted to crack cocaine. The Georgia Division of Family and Children Services had intervened in 1995, but he was already bouncing from home to home. News publications described him as a thug and evil. Brown cited numerous factors for Lewis mistreatment, including the juvenile super-predators craze of the 1990s, new national and statewide tough-on-crime legislation, a power-hungry prosecutor and a city eager to project a safe and inviting image in the aftermath of the U.S. Olympics. She claimed all were prepared to sacrifice a 13-year-old child to deliver a political point. Lewis became eligible for parole in 2011, yet was refused that year, in 2016 and in 2020. He was given provisional parole in June 2022 and found out about the parole certificate this month. The board did not comment on what led to Lewis release, citing a policy prohibiting it from commenting on particular instances. I have an idea of it, but I dont know what to expect, Lewis said of his newfound freedom. Ive never been outside of Georgia. Ive been all around Georgia incarcerated, but Ive never been out of the state. So, Im ready. Brown whom Lewis refers to as his mother and his Atlanta attorney, Leigh Schrope, met him outside the prison Wednesday. Shortly after, he and Brown headed to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport for his first plane ride, which was to the San Francisco Bay Area. Lewis will help run the neighborhood market at Browns nonprofit Oakland and the World Enterprises, which is building a mixed-used affordable housing development. He is optimistic and enthusiastic about the future. I told him I am gonna be with you until you get out, Brown recalled, AJC reported. He had nobody. He was a piece of garbage. So I decided to take up his case. TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today! The post After being sentenced as an adult at 13, Michael Lewis, now 40, is home appeared first on TheGrio. On Thursday 28 September, Belarusian Defence Ministry accused Poland of having crossed its state border twice. Source: European Pravda, with reference to the statement of Belarusian Defence Ministry Details: The Belarusian authority reported that in the afternoon, the radars of Belarusian Air Force and air defence forces recorded "the approach of a Polish aircraft." Around 3:20 p.m., the aircraft crossed the border of the Republic of Belarus, flying inland to a range of up to one and a half kilometres. At 16:22, the helicopter repeatedly violated the state border by flying inwards for about 300 metres," the report said. The Belarusian Ministry of Defence added that in connection with the "incident", it dispatched fighters, and a note of protest to Poland was being prepared at the Belarusian Foreign Ministry. The Polish side has not yet commented on the situation. On 1 September, the State Border Committee of Belarus also claimed that a Polish military helicopter violated airspace in the Berestovichi district of the Grodno region. Warsaw then said they would verify these claims, but they were sceptical. In early August, there was a similar incident when two Belarusian helicopters flew into Poland at a low altitude, which is why they were not immediately discovered. Official Minsk continues to deny that this happened. 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 Belarusian Defense Ministry claimed that a Polish helicopter entered its airspace on Sept. 28, which Warsaw denies. "At around 15:20, the aircraft crossed the border of the Republic of Belarus, flying into a depth of up to one and a half kilometers," the ministry's press service said. "At 16:22, the helicopter violated the state border again, flying 300 meters deep." Belarus said that it had scrambled its military aircraft in response. "Today's statement by the Belarusian side about the alleged crossing of the border by a Polish helicopter is false," the Operational Command of the Armed Forces of Poland said in response. "The Polish military, contrary to the constant provocations by the Republic of Belarus, respects and complies with all provisions and regulations regarding the inviolability of borders." Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support us The Belarusian Foreign Ministry said it had summoned Polish charge d'affaires in the country, Martin Wojciechowski, in protest to the alleged incident. Tensions between NATO member Poland and the Kremlin's ally Belarus have surged following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The situation escalated further after thousands of Wagner Group mercenaries relocated to Belarus following their short-lived rebellion against Moscow, leading Warsaw to reinforce its military presence at the border. Poland accused Belarus of violating its airspace with a helicopter on Aug. 1, and Minsk leveled the same accusations against Warsaw on Sept. 1 Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine sends letter to G7 on use of Western parts in Shahed drones Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Tim Scott, a candidate for the GOP presidential nomination, seemingly insinuated that welfare is worse than slavery for Black families a remark that has left social media in an uproar. The South Carolina senator participated in the Republican primary debate in Simi Valley, California, which aired on Wednesday night on Fox News. Scott made the comments when the candidates were speaking about the countrys education system. Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) (Photo by Cheriss May/NurPhoto via Getty Images) Black families survived slavery. We survived poll taxes and literacy tests, Scott said. We survived discrimination being woven into the laws of our country. What was hard to survive was Johnsons Great Society, where they decided to put money, he continued but was interrupted as the crowd applauded. Where they decided to take the Black father out of the household to get a check in the mail. And now you can measure that in unemployment, in crime, in devastation. Trending: Scott refers to policies initiated by former President Lyndon B. Johnson notably aimed to abolish poverty and inequality, improving education and the environment. One of the significant contributions was solidifying Medicare and Medicaid for those who are poor and elderly. If you want to restore hope, youve got to restore the family, restore capitalism, and put Americans back at work together as one American family, Scott added. Our nation continues to go in the right direction. Its why I can say I have been discriminated against, but America is not a racist country. People on social media scoffed at Scotts remarks, with former Ohio state senator Nina Turner calling him a disgrace. Imagine being the first Black Senator ever from South Carolina and using that platform to claim slavery wasnt as bad as the legislative accomplishments of the Civil Rights Movement. https://t.co/PyStOdKOGu Samuel Sinyangwe (@samswey) September 28, 2023 Imagine being Black and running in a political party where you believe you need to disgrace your ancestors to have a chance, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones wrote. Never trust anyone who hates the group to which they belong, another person chimed in. The next time someone pretends only white people can spread or embrace white supremacy, show them this clip, wrote another user. Read the original story at Atlanta Black Star. A North Carolina burger joint loads its patties with cheese and fans cant get enough of them. So much so, the Lexington-area restaurant now ranks as the states best place to get a cheeseburger, according to results published Sept. 1. Nicks Old Fashion Hamburger House topped the list after the review website Yelp studied comments that customers left between Jan. 1 and July 20. The website said it ranked those spots using a number of factors, including the total volume and ratings of reviews mentioning cheeseburger. Why do fans love the burgers? On Yelp, some customers raved that the restaurant constructed burgers with well-cooked patties and oozing cheese. Others praised the meat-to-bun ratio and the toppings which range from onions to jalapenos. Nicks, which earned more than four out of five stars, took to Facebook to bask in the No. 1 ranking from Yelp. Yelp is a big deal in our world and to have this recognition is huge, the restaurant wrote Sept. 21. Were so excited and cant thank everyone enough. Nicks started in 2010 and got its name from one of its founders sons. The restaurant about 15 miles south of Winston-Salem in Davidson County said its passionate about providing fresh, high quality food and supporting the local community. Though the restaurant is in an area known for its barbecue, it has made its mark by serving other fan favorites. Among the items on its menu are a cheeseburger topped with pimento cheese and one thats stacked with five patties. But for those looking for something else to eat, Nicks has hot dogs, fries and other classics on its menu. This small town in NC ranks No. 1 on a list of best mountain destinations. Heres why Raise a glass! This North Carolina citys beer scene ranks among the best in the US TEMPE, Ariz. President Joe Biden on Thursday declared that America must overcome new tests to its democracy, delivering his clearest warnings yet about what he believes is at stake in his coming reelection campaign against the likely Republican nominee, Donald Trump . Biden selected Arizona a state where the former president attempted to challenge the 2020 election results and considered a major battleground again next year as the setting for his fourth major speech on protecting democracy. It is also home to the late Sen. John McCain , who Biden has pointed to as an example of what the Republican Party used to stand for before Trump was elected. Biden centered his speech around McCains legacy to make the case that preserving American institutions should not be a partisan issue. The president is fond of saying that McCain, a vocal Trump critic who died in 2018, would put patriotism before party and he expressed concern that too many members of the senators Republican Party would instead pledge their loyalty to Trump over the Constitution. For John, it was country first, said Biden. All of us are being asked right now what we will do to maintain our democracy? We will put a partnership aside and put country first? I say we must. And we will. Hitting on familiar themes and recalling the legacy of his late friend, Biden stressed that the nation should not walk away from the sacrifices generations of Americans have made to defend our democracy. We have to stand up for Americas values embodied in our Declaration of Independence because we know MAGA extremists have already proven they wont, Biden said. We have to stand up for our Constitution and the institutions of democracy because MAGA extremists have made clear they wont. That was one factor that pushed Biden to deliver another speech on the need to protect the nations democracy. The topic has also featured prominently in his remarks at recent closed-door fundraisers, including several in the past week in California and New York. In those more relaxed, off-camera settings, Biden has warned that democracy is on the ballot and has taken a series of his most direct swipes at Trump yet. He did the same in Arizona. He invoked Trumps name only once but spent the bulk of his speech clearly outlining the danger the former president poses. There is something dangerous happening in America, Biden said. There is an extremist movement that does not share the basic beliefs of our democracy. The MAGA Movement. Biden rattled over the warning signs: the erosion of trust of democratic institutions; election denialism, the banning of books. He then warned against the GOP frontrunners stated agenda for a second term, which includes an expansion of presidential power, the destruction of the federal bureaucracy and Trumps declaration that he would be his followers retribution. Biden also called out Trumps recent declarations that Gen. Mark Milley, the outgoing chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, should be tried for treason. Bidens comments come a day after the second Republican primary debate, during which candidates took a handful of swipes at Trump who skipped the event altogether but seemed to fail to make a meaningful dent in his clear path to the nomination. As the general election comes into clearer focus, Biden aides are betting that homing in on democracy will buoy the presidents campaign, especially after a spasm of political violence and threats to election integrity have shocked the American system in recent years. Bidens comments come a day after the second Republican primary debate, during which candidates took a handful of swipes at Trump who skipped the event altogether but seemed to fail to make a meaningful dent in his clear path to the nomination. As the general election comes into clearer focus, Biden aides are betting that homing in on democracy will buoy the presidents campaign, especially after a spasm of political violence and threats to election integrity have shocked the American system in recent years. Those close to Biden believe that the issue, along with abortion rights, helped propel Democrats to a far stronger than expected showing during the 2022 midterm elections. Biden has both publicly and privately noted that pundits were wrong in suggesting his closing argument last November should have been about the economy rather than the dangers of political extremism, according to three people close to the president granted anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss those conversations. The Biden team had thought the danger posed by Trump would fade over time, or that attacks from Republican primary candidates would drag him down. Instead, Trump has continued to dominate the Republican field even as criminal indictments against him have mounted. That was one factor that pushed Biden to deliver another speech on the need to protect the nations democracy. The topic has also featured prominently in his remarks at recent closed-door fundraisers, including several in the past week in California and New York. In those more relaxed, off-camera settings, Biden has warned that democracy is on the ballot and has taken a series of his most direct swipes at Trump yet. Donald Trump and the MAGA Republicans are determined to destroy American democracy because they want to break down institutional structures, Biden said Tuesday at a San Francisco fundraiser. Political violence in America is never, never, never, never acceptable. In the coming months, Biden intends to adhere to his plan not to directly address Trumps legal issues for fear of being seen as influencing the process. Instead, he and his staff believe a series of warnings by the president about the ongoing threats to the nations foundation will help drive home the point. On Thursday, Biden said he was moved to speak out again because of fears about the diminishment of our democracy. We should all remember: democracies don't have to die at the end of a rifle, he said. They can die when people are silent, when they fail to stand up and condemn threats to democracy. Aides originally thought about delivering this speech at another American historical landmark George Washingtons former military base at Valley Forge, Pa., was considered but ultimately decided to use the moment to also honor McCain. Biden was introduced by McCains widow, Cindy McCain , who heads the U.N. World Food Program and said the president and first lady Jill Biden introduced her to her late husband. Biden who at one point was briefly interrupted by a protester also announced funding from the American Rescue Plan to construct the McCain Library in conjunction with Arizona State University. Earlier this month while visiting Hanoi, Biden was joined by old friends in paying tribute to McCain and he later told associates it was one of the most moving moments of his presidency, according to one of the people close to the president. I thought about how America missed John right now, that America needs John right now, Biden said. President Biden on Wednesday criticized Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) for heading towards a government shutdown, saying hes choosing the speakership over the interest of the U.S. We made a deal, Biden said at a campaign reception, stressing that he personally negotiated with McCarthy to make sure the U.S. didnt default on its debt in May. Now they come along and say we didnt mean it. The fact is that I think that the speaker is making a choice between the speakership and American interest, he added. Biden has accused Republicans of not abiding by the debt-ceiling-raising agreement he made with McCarthy that set caps on spending for the next year. Now conservatives in the House are seeking to make deeper cuts than it included in the deal. The president on Monday said he hasnt spoken to McCarthy and shook his head when asked if he will speak to him. On Tuesday, McCarthy said it would be very important to meet with Biden amid discussions over averting a shutdown. Biden told the group at the reception on Wednesday that a government shutdown would be disastrous. The reception was hosted by climate activist and former Democratic presidential candidate Tom Steyer and his wife, Kat Taylor. The president earlier on Wednesday said that he doesnt think a shutdown is inevitable because he doesnt think anythings inevitable in politics. The White House has warned of the impacts of a government shutdown, like on food assistance, travel and military readiness, among other areas. Congress faces a Saturday deadline to pass legislation to fund the government and prevent a shutdown. The Senate advanced a bipartisan continuing resolution on Tuesday night to avoid a shutdown but McCarthy told members of his conference on Wednesday morning that he would not bring that resolution to the floor for a vote after some House conservatives lined up against it. The Senate resolution, which advanced after an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote, would fund the government through Nov. 17 and includes roughly $6.15 billion in funding for Ukraine, $5.99 billion in disaster assistance and would temporarily extend the expiring authority of the Federal Aviation Administration. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. President Biden hit former President Trump in a Thursday speech dedicated to honoring the late Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.). Biden, in making an impassioned plea for democracy and respect for the U.S. Constitution, also called on Americans to ask just what it wants. Do we still believe in the Constitution? Do we believe in the basic decency and respect? The whole country should ask themselves what it wants, Biden said in remarks in Tempe, Ariz. All of us are being asked right now, what will we do to maintain our democracy? Will we, as John wrote, never quit. Will we not hide from history, but make history? Will we put partisanship aside and put country first. I say we must, and we will, Biden said, invoking McCain, his longtime friend and fellow senator. The presidents speech, which struck a solemn tone as he called for bipartisanship, highlighted the career of McCain working across the aisle and speaking out against extremists. McCain, who died in 2018, was a fierce critic of Trump and Trump on the campaign trail in 2016 also disparaged McCain for being a prisoner of war during Vietnam. We should all remember, democracies dont have to die at the end of a riffle. They can die when people are silent, when they fail to stand up and condemn the threats to democracy, Biden said. The president hit directly at Trump, who he argued wasnt guided by the Constitution. He called out past statements from Trump, including him saying a news network was committing treason for not supporting him and for reportedly calling service members suckers and losers in 2018. He called service members suckers and losers. Was John a sucker? Was my son, Beau, who lived next to a burn pit for a year, came home and died. Was he a sucker for volunteering to service his country? Biden said, referring to his son, Beau Biden, who died of the same brain cancer as McCain. Its not only wrong, its un-American. But it never changes. The MAGA extremists across the country have made it clear where they stand, Biden added. Biden said its a dangerous notion that Trump thinks hes above the law, adding the former president is not guided by the Constitution or by common service and decency to our fellow Americans, but by vengeance and vindictiveness. The president also bashed Sen. Tommy Tubervilles (R-Ala.) hold on military promotions in protest of the Pentagons abortion policy. One guy in Alabama is holding up the promotion of hundreds of these officials, Biden said. Frankly, these extremists have no idea what the hell theyre talking about. His pleas for Americans to preserve democracy were a central theme throughout the speech. Im asking you that, regardless whether youre a Democrat, Republican or an independent, put the preservation of our democracy before everything else. Put our country first, Biden said. His focus on the Constitution and bipartisanship Thursday comes as the government appears headed for a weekend shutdown the White House is blaming on House Republicans. The conference has been unable to agree to a plan to fund the government despite a deal this summer that set ceilings on spending for the next fiscal year. Democracy is maintained by adhering to the Constitution, Biden said. We cant be situational; we cant be only there when its good for yourself. Historys watching, the world is watching, and most important, our children and grandchildren will hold us responsible, he added. I know we can meet this moment, John knew we can meet this moment. The president earlier this month visited a memorial to McCain in Vietnam, where he was held as a prisoner of war, which Biden said made him think about what the country owed McCain. I thought about how much America missed John right now, how much America needed Johns courage and foresight and vision, Biden said. Johns one of those patriots that when they die, their voices are never silent. They still speak to us, they target both our hearts and our conscience and they pose the most profound questions who are we? What do we stand for? What do we believe? What will we be? For John, it was country first. Biden also announced on Thursday that funding from the American Rescue Plan, which he signed into law in 2021, will go to construct the McCain Library in partnership with the McCain Institute and Arizona State University. He was introduced by McCains wife Cindy McCain while other members of the McCain family and Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs (D) attended the remarks. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. WASHINGTON The Biden campaign is preparing to target Republican economic positions, views it expects to play a large role in the second Republican presidential debate in California on Wednesday. President Joe Biden has frequently touted "Bidenomics" the word the administration embraced that encompasses his economic agenda but more recently he has highlighted what he calls "MAGAnomics," having used the word for the first time, according to a senior White House official, to target Republican economic policies this month. The term is a play on "MAGA," the abbreviation for Trump 's "Make American Great Again" slogan, which his followers have embraced. The Biden campaign plans to portray "MAGAnomics" as harming middle-class families, senior citizens and American manufacturing, all while helping the "super wealthy," "Big Pharma" and China, according to campaign advisers. The willingness of "MAGA Republicans" to force a government shutdown "unless Donald Trump gets his way, shines a brighter spotlight on economic impacts of the extreme MAGAnomics agenda," campaign advisers said in an email last week. "On the debate stage, Republicans will have to answer whether theyre on the side of the MAGA shutdown or with the American people." In a call Wednesday with reporters, a Biden campaign National Advisory Board member, Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nev., argued that "MAGAnomics" would be "devastating" to Nevadans. "There's no question that Bidenomics is working for Nevadans. They can feel it in their everyday lives," Titus said. "They talk about it at the supper table, and they certainly don't support the MAGAnomics of getting rid of these benefits that have helped them to recover." But polling shows high dissatisfaction with the economy. A NBC News poll this month found that 59% of voters disapproved of Bidens handling of the economy, a number that has remained relatively consistent over the past two years. A slightly lower 56% of voters disapprove of his overall job performance. In a call with reporters Monday, Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison said in response to a question about Bidens polling numbers that Democrats must not only educate the American people about what we have done to deliver for them but also give the American people a sense of the other side, what they have failed to do in order to create and deliver more jobs, what they have failed to do in order to fill potholes and to build infrastructure. In a call with reporters Wednesday, a campaign co-chair, Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-Texas, said in response to a question about Biden's polling that polls are "a quick snapshot in time" and that the country is still "quite a ways off" from the 2024 election. Titus said: "You talk about infrastructure, people's eyes glaze over. That's why we've got to go out there, and the president is doing a good job of that, and we all did it in our districts throughout August and say, 'This bridge was created, this road was paved, this water purification system was set up, all using those recovery dollars.'" The debate comes mere days before a possible government shutdown, and the campaign has already seized on a social media post in which the Republican front-runner, former President Donald Trump, wrote in all caps, "Unless you get everything, shut it down!" Biden campaign spokesperson Kevin Munoz said the post showed Trump directing the GOP to "kneecap essential services hardworking Americans rely on every day" because he thinks it will benefit him politically. "House Republicans are gleefully letting Donald Trump function as their chief political strategist at the expense of American families," Munoz said in a statement. "Trumps behavior is shameful, but unsurprising from someone who has demonstrated he couldnt care less about the American people." The debate also comes on the heels of back-to-back visits to Michigan, where United Auto Workers union members are striking Biden on Tuesday and Trump on Wednesday. Biden became the first sitting president to appear on a picket line during his visit, and he frequently asserts that he is the most pro-union president in U.S. history. The DNC criticized Trump in a news release the day Biden visited the picket line, saying his strong record of delivering for auto workers will stand in stark contrast with former President Donald Trumps string of broken promises, shuttered factories, and lost jobs. The DNC is also running billboards Wednesday and Thursday in metro Detroit criticizing Trump's economic policies, and it argued in a news release that Trump failed autoworkers. What did Trump say should have happened to the car industry in 2008-2009, said a billboard with a picture of Trump. You could have let it go bankrupt. Another billboard refers to the former president as Donald Hoover Trump. Trump has shot back at Bidens visit to the UAW picket line, calling it a stunt to distract and gaslight the American people from his disastrous Bidenomics policies that have led to so much economic misery across the country. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Six elderly adults revive coastal ecosystem in E China's Jiangsu People's Daily Online) 17:21, September 27, 2023 Fifteen years ago, Yeludang, now a coastal wetland, was a desolate wasteland. Over the course of 15 years, six elderly individuals worked at this location, transforming the barren land into an oasis. Yeludang is situated in the Dafeng district of Yancheng city in east China's Jiangsu Province. Covering an area of 200 hectares, it stands as one of the relatively well-preserved primitive wetlands on Earth and is also designated as one of China's five dark and starry sky conservation areas. Photo shows Yeludang, which was just a desolate land previously. (Photo courtesy of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Yancheng Municipal Committee) Ma Lianyi, the 71-year-old founder of the China Conservation Area for Dark and Starry Sky, shared the touching story of these six elderly individuals and their deep connection to Yeludang at the World Coastal Forum 2023, held in Yancheng on Sept. 25. Ma recounted that during his youth, he had worked and lived in Hoh Xil, located in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, for over a decade. During that time, he had crossed the Tuotuo River, a source of the Yangtze River, on horseback multiple times. After Ma returned to his hometown in Yancheng, he discovered that Yancheng was once situated at the mouth of the Yangtze River. Joining Ma were five other elderly individuals, each from different corners of China, all sharing a profound emotional bond with Yeludang. Ma Lianyi (first from left) and his partners. (Photo courtesy of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Yancheng Municipal Committee) The local government supported the elderly individuals' vision of creating a national ecological landmark and assisted them. "We built roads, dredged canals and harbors, and planted trees and grass. Additionally, we constructed a shallow water area covering 80 hectares and released many juvenile fish every year, thus transforming the barren land into an oasis," Ma explained. After over a decade of unwavering dedication, Yeludang has evolved into a habitat for over 10,000 rare birds. Recently, as many as 200 oriental white storks have been spotted nesting here daily, turning the area into a magnificent and vibrant watercolor painting. Photo shows the picturesque scenery of the Yeludang. (Photo courtesy of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Yancheng Municipal Committee) Ma's team has conducted over 400 lectures on nature, reaching out to more than 30,000 individuals and sharing inspiring stories of nature conservation. They have received nearly 100,000 visitors. Ma's team gives a lecture on nature. (Photo courtesy of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Yancheng Municipal Committee) "We protect nature, and in return, nature bestows upon us its most precious gifts. This is the beautiful story between us and Yeludang," Ma noted. (Web editor: Hongyu, Du Mingming) Brittany King sits in her Lincoln Park apartment on Sept. 19, 2023. King, 33, says she appreciates the intent of the Moving to Work program, but would prefer all the funding be used directly toward housing people. (Trent Sprague/Chicago Tribune) As Congress nears the eleventh hour in its 2024 budget negotiations, a long-standing housing initiative up for renewal in the legislation is sparking concern among advocates who say the program keeps thousands of Chicagoans from getting housing assistance every year. Called Moving to Work, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development program allows CHA and other public housing authorities to use money allocated for housing vouchers and public housing for other purposes, such as providing free meals to seniors and youth and helping residents find jobs. Advertisement Set to expire in 2028, the program would be extended another 15 years, through 2043, under a proposal before the Senate Committee on Appropriations, despite objections from housing advocates who say greater oversight is needed for agencies in the program, including CHA. Chicago is a very extreme example, but its a really important example of a housing authority and how they are using their MTW flexibilities not necessarily to benefit the residents, said Deborah Thrope, deputy director of the National Housing Law Project. Advertisement Established in 1996, Moving to Work is intended to give housing authorities flexibility in how they meet local housing needs and to help residents find work and become self-sufficient. But housing advocates say the agencies end up diverting millions of dollars every year that could be used to get residents off voucher waitlists and build much-needed public housing. Last year, CHA redirected an estimated $74 million in federal voucher dollars to other uses through the program, keeping more than 6,000 families from getting off the waitlist, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a Washington, D.C.-based think tank focused on reducing poverty. CHA is among the original 39 public housing agencies to adopt Moving to Work. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities estimates more than 55,000 families across those agencies were left without vouchers in 2022 as a result of the program. While CHA did not comment directly on the centers findings, CHA CEO Tracey Scott said the agencys participation in Moving to Work is critical to meeting the citys housing needs, noting that HUD provides funding for housing but not services to support residents. We are talking about people and affecting peoples lives, said Scott, who is president of the MTW Collaborative, a nonprofit membership organization that advocates for Moving to Work. MTW is in Chicagos DNA. Of CHAs $1.2 billion budget for 2022, more than $916 million was composed of Moving to Work funds. The majority, $575.4 million, was used to fund the voucher program, while $159.3 million went toward property and asset management and $53.6 million was spent on capital repairs and improvements. About $76.7 million was spent on personnel and $28.6 million on paying down debt. Another $22.7 million was budgeted for resident services, though additional expenses for those services were built into other parts of the budget, so the actual amount was higher, CHA said. Since 2020, CHA has used its funding flexibility under Moving to Work to employ around 6,000 youth during the summer, fund over 500 college scholarships for residents, provide more than 580,000 and 170,000 meals for seniors and youth, respectively, and help more than 150 families purchase a home. It has also used the funds to hire service coordinators for 49 senior buildings, support the citys homeless prevention programs, develop new CHA housing and improve thousands of existing units, according to the agency. CHA did not provide a detailed breakdown of where the funds go, but said many of the programs are funded through the resident services line item, which has ranged from more than $35 million to more than $41 million per year in recent years. Advertisement Thousands wait for vouchers The Housing Choice Voucher Program, the primary federal housing voucher program, formerly known as Section 8, allows public housing authorities to provide subsidies to low-income residents who find housing in the private market. Most of the vouchers are required to go to families who make no more than 50% of the area median income, which for a family of four in Chicago is $53,900, according to CHA. Residents with vouchers from CHA pay 30%-40% of their income toward rent and utilities, and CHA covers the rest. But with 25,200 people on the waitlist, it can take years, even decades, to get a voucher. Brittany King sits in her apartment in the Lincoln Park neighborhood on Sept. 19, 2023. (Trent Sprague/Chicago Tribune) Brittany King, 33, was offered a voucher in 2015 after a five-year wait but was unable to find a place to live in the time CHA gave her to use the voucher. Now, the disability rights advocate and mother of a 4-year-old has been on the waitlist for another five years. King lives in Lincoln Park, receiving housing through the Anixter Center, an organization that supports people with disabilities. She pays $194 in monthly rent, which is 30% of her monthly income. While she appreciates the intent of the Moving to Work program, King said she would prefer all the funding be used toward housing people. Scholarships are important, however, housing is a basic necessity, King said. The Chicago Housing Authority should stand for housing people, and at this time, it does not seem as though that is the case. Advertisement CHA provides vouchers to 41,000 households more than 92,000 people according to its fiscal year 2023 budget book. About 2,400 families leave the voucher program every year, opening up spots for people on the waitlist. Thousands more families end up coming off the waitlist every year for reasons such as no longer being eligible or failing to respond when their name comes up, the agency said. When CHA last opened the waitlist in 2014 for four weeks, the agency received 280,000 applications, 70,000 of which were approved for the waitlist. CHA said it has other types of voucher and public housing waitlists that are always open. While CHA said it serves Chicagoans in other ways through the funding deregulation, the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities found in 2021 that about 800 families received assistance through the alternative programs in Chicago, compared with thousands of families who didnt receive housing vouchers. Generally, the ways that this money is used tends to be things that are less effective at helping the lowest-income families than vouchers are, said Will Fischer, director of housing policy and research at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. CHA argues it has been able to serve more families, not fewer, over the years because of its participation in Moving to Work. In 2022, the agency served 63,449 families through its public housing and Housing Choice Voucher programs compared with 49,921 in 1999. Scott also takes issue with criticism from housing advocates that CHA is not building sufficient housing. Advertisement According to a HUD document from January 2022, CHA tops the list of public housing authorities with the most capacity to build additional units under the Faircloth Amendment, a federal law that restricts agencies ability to own and operate public housing. With more than 19,000 units still to build, CHA is more than 7,000 units higher than the next agency on the list, as of September 2021. Scott said 3,500 new mixed-income housing units have been built in Chicago since 2019, with 1,700 units currently under construction, something she said can be accomplished because of the agencys flexibility under its Moving to Work status. The complaints about the Moving to Work program are not new. The Tribune reported in 2017 on a Center for Tax and Budget Accountability study that showed CHA had paid off all its debt, overfunded its pension plan and stashed away hundreds of millions of dollars in reserves while it failed to rebuild thousands of demolished public housing units, thanks to the flexibility offered through Moving to Work. CHA pushed back against the findings in the report, according to the Tribune article. Advocates petition Congress The Housing Justice Network, a group of Chicago-based and national advocacy and legal organizations that work with the National Housing Law Project, sent a letter Aug. 21 to the Senate Committee on Appropriations calling for a negotiation of the Moving to Work contracts to allow for more oversight. Chicago housing advocates asked Sen. Dick Durbins office to propose a budget amendment that would restore language stating the Moving to Work program for the original 39 agencies would last through 2028 until the issue can be discussed further. Durbins office did not respond to a request for comment. Sen. Patty Murray, chair of the committee, and Sen. Susan Collins, a ranking member, also did not respond. Advertisement The Moving to Work contracts were last renewed by Congress in 2016, and dozens more public housing authorities have been added to the program since its inception. Emily Coffey, director of equitable community development and housing at the Chicago Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights, one of the Housing Justice Network members, said HUD has added more guardrails for the dozens of public housing authorities that have joined the program and thinks Congress should allow HUD to do this for the original 39 agencies. I think that CHA needs oversight, Coffey said. The regulations do exist for a reason. Noelle Porter, director of government affairs for the National Housing Law Project, said it is proving difficult to amend the legislation. House Republicans have made it impossible for advocates to engage in good faith negotiations over final aspects of the bill, Porter said, adding she hopes Congress might be able to make a change in the final days of negotiations. In an emailed statement Wednesday, a HUD spokesperson said, As part of our usual policy development process, HUD has and will continue to take into consideration the input of public housing authorities and its stakeholders to ensure the best outcomes for residents as well as housing authorities in the implementation of its public housing programs. Advertisement The MTW Collaborative rejects the idea of the 39 original agencies being subjected to the same restrictions as newer ones, saying those agencies have been severely limited in their ability to respond to community needs, according to a May 2023 paper sent to Congress by the collaborative. The paper cites research from the Urban Institute finding Moving to Work agencies serve more low-income families than agencies not part of the program. After joining, public housing authorities receive significantly more HUD funding, an estimated 11% increase, serving an estimated 10% increase in households, according to the study. Still, some advocates say they are not convinced the benefits outweigh the negatives. If the contracts are extended, Fischer of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities said the patterns he has seen so far would continue. It would mean a lot of people who are struggling to afford housing would continue to not get assistance that they could be getting, he said. ekane@chicagotribune.com President Biden was heckled Thursday during a speech in Arizona by a climate activist who was calling for the president to declare a climate emergency. Why have you yet to declare a climate emergency? the person shouted from the crowd at the Tempe Center For The Arts. Arizonians have died. The crowd booed the heckler and Biden stepped in, telling him he would meet with him after the speech. Why dont you wait hang on a second, Id be happy to meet with you after I speak, OK? the president said from the podium. If you shush up, Ill meet with you immediately after this, OK? Biden added while the heckler kept yelling. The president continued his speech, which was about democracy and bipartisanship, once the heckler was removed and he noted the incident. Democracys never easy, as we just demonstrated, Biden said. Climate activists have called for Biden to declare a national emergency on climate change, which is a specific tool the president has at his disposal that would unlock other powers related to climate change. Biden last month said that he has in practice declared one during an interview with The Weather Channel. The presidents speech in Arizona, a critical swing state for the 2024 election, honored his late friend Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) and he argued during his remarks that preserving democracy is not a partisan issue. Updated at 3:56 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. President Biden honored the late Republican Sen. John McCain, his longtime Senate colleague, on Thursday at a dedication ceremony for a new library in Arizona named for the senator and war hero, with the president using the occasion to harken back to his 2020 campaign theme about the battle for the "soul of America." "Five years ago, when John was dying from brain cancer, John wrote a farewell letter to the nation," Mr. Biden said. "His words track back centuries, to America's founding, toward the triumphant future. Here's what John wrote, and I quote: 'We are citizens of the world, the world's greatest republic, a nation of ideals, not blood and soil.' Americans never quit, Americans never hide from history. John was right." Mr. Biden used the remarks in Tempe to speak about the state of democracy, which he said "all of us are being asked right now to maintain." At one point, Mr. Biden was interrupted by a protester, who he asked to "shush up" and said he would speak to him later. "Democracy isn't easy, as we just demonstrated," Mr. Biden quipped. President Biden delivers remarks on democracy during an event honoring the legacy of the late Sen. John McCain at the Tempe Center for The Arts in Tempe, Arizona, on Sept. 28, 2023. / Credit: EVELYN HOCKSTEIN / REUTERS As he heads into the 2024 election, Mr. Biden is seeking to again court voters opposed to former President Donald Trump especially anti-Trump Republicans. Before his death in 2018, McCain was one of the most prominent Trump critics in the GOP. Trump disparaged McCain frequently, even after he was diagnosed with brain cancer. Cindy McCain , his widow, endorsed Mr. Biden for president in 2020. The president appointed her to become the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture in 2021, and she became the executive director of the World Food Programme earlier this year. The McCain Library will be developed by the McCain Institute and Arizona State University, with funds from the American Rescue Plan going toward construction. Mr. Biden and McCain served together in the Senate for decades and were close friends. In 2008, they found themselves on opposite sides of the bitter 2008 presidential election, when McCain was the Republican nominee and Mr. Biden was running to become vice president. Sen. John McCain receives the the 2017 Liberty Medal from former Vice President Joe Biden at the National Constitution Center on Oct. 16, 2017, in Philadelphia. / Credit: William Thomas Cain / Getty Images Mr. Biden delivered an emotional eulogy at McCain's funeral after his death in 2018, saying he "always thought of John as a brother, with a hell of a lot of family fights." He awarded him a posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2022. While in Vietnam earlier this month, Mr. Biden visited the John McCain Memorial in Hanoi, near the spot where McCain's Skyhawk dive bomber was shot down by North Vietnamese fighters in 1967. He was captured and served more than five years in a POW camp. "I miss him. He was a good friend," Mr. Biden said after visiting the memorial. McCain represented Arizona in the Senate for over three decades, and the state is one of the key battleground states that Mr. Biden must defend in 2024. Until 2020, Arizona had been a Republican stronghold for years, with two Republican senators and a streak of supporting GOP presidential candidates that stretched back to 1996. But following former Sen. Jeff Flake's retirement and McCain's death in 2018, both Senate seats flipped to Democrats and Mr. Biden narrowly won the state in 2020. In 2020, Democrat Mark Kelly defeated Republican Sen. Martha McSally, who had been appointed to fill McCain's seat, in a special election. He successfully defended the seat against Blake Masters in 2022, when Hobbs defeated Republican Kari Lake to take the governor's mansion as well. nd on your mobile or streaming device. Gen. Milley responds to Trump post accusing general of treason | 60 Minutes North Korea says it will expel Travis King, U.S. soldier who ran across border Arrest warrent issued for suspect in killing of 26-year-old Baltimore tech CEO In advance of their first formal impeachment hearing against President Biden, House Republicans vowed that they would reveal the basis for an inquiry meant to implicate President Biden in his son Hunters overseas business dealings. But on Thursday they provided no evidence of the presidents involvement. In fact, the only real news to come out of the hearing of the House Oversight, Judiciary and Ways and Means committees was that even the GOPs own witnesses dont see any impeachable offenses by Joe Biden at this point. Witnesses are sworn in at the first formal hearing regarding the House impeachment inquiry into President Biden, Sept. 28. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images) The current record does not establish any crime, let alone an impeachable offense Historically, the House has only launched impeachment inquiries after discovering that a president has done something blatantly incriminating. But Thursdays initial hearing made it clear that in Bidens case, House Republicans are using the inquiry to fish for facts they were unable to find during previous investigations while generating social media clicks and unflattering headlines about the president in the process. As Democrats such as New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez repeatedly pointed out, none of the GOPs three witnesses were summoned to provide firsthand witness account[s] of crimes committed by the president of the United States, but rather broader context on how financial violations are investigated and how impeachment typically unfolds. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez listens to testimony during the House impeachment hearing into President Biden on Thursday. (Bonnie Cash/UPI/Shutterstock) Their testimony didnt make a case against the president. I do not believe that the evidence currently meets the standard of a high crime and misdemeanor needed for an article of impeachment, said Jonathan Turley, the Republicans first witness, a professor at George Washington University Law School. I am not here to even suggest that there was corruption, fraud or even any wrongdoing, added Bruce Dubinsky, an expert in forensic accounting who also served as a Republican witness. Prior to Thursdays hearing, Republican politicians were singing a different tune. Joe Biden has, I believe, committed multiple criminal acts, Rep. Elise Stefanik, a member of House GOP leadership, said in June. Why the huge gap between witnesses and politicians? Because as Ocasio-Cortez noted Thursday, congressional witnesses are under oath while politicians on cable news (or even in a committee room) are not. The name that has been repeated most often in this hearing is Hunter Biden Since 2018, Hunter Biden has been under investigation first by the Justice Department, then by House Republicans for an array of alleged misdeeds, the most significant of which is trading on his family name and proximity to power to rake in millions of dollars from foreign business associates. Democrats have long granted that Hunter Biden acted unethically in using his family name to make millions. But they have also said Joe Biden was not involved, did not profit and did not change U.S. policy to help his son during his time as vice president. Republicans spent much of Thursdays hearing hammering on Hunters conduct, displaying complex diagrams of his alleged shell companies and images of text messages between him and various other Biden family members. Yet when their focus turned to the president, GOP committee members fell back on speculation and insinuations. The only question is, Was the president involved? said Turley. The key here that the committee has to drill down on is whether they can establish a linkage with the influence peddling. President Biden's son Hunter Biden leaves a court appearance in Wilmington, Del., July 26. (Julio Cortez, AP) We need the impeachment inquiry status to get the information Despite admitting that the current evidence does not support impeachment, Republican witnesses said further investigation is justified. I personally think the threshold for an inquiry has been surpassed [and] that you have a duty to inquire, Turley said. Republicans gestured at what future hearings might focus on. So far they have not subpoenaed Hunter and Joe Bidens personal bank accounts because courts would be unlikely to grant them access without evidence of wrongdoing. Now GOP investigators will likely try to get access to those records, since courts may give more leeway to an impeachment proceeding. We have led this investigation and now we need the impeachment inquiry status moving forward to get the information we have been obstructed [in getting], said House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer. Without such information in hand, and without any material fact witnesses to interrogate, Democrats questioned why the House was bothering to hold an impeachment hearing on the eve of a likely government shutdown other than to distract the public from former President Trumps multiple criminal indictments. These witnesses are not giving any answers, said Rep. Maxwell Frost, D-Fla. Theyre just asking more questions. And even Turley admitted that unless the inquiry can prove that type of [financial] nexus between Joe Biden and Hunter Biden, then no, I dont think impeachment is warranted. House Republicans are holding their first impeachment hearing into President Joe Biden, making unsubstantiated allegations of bribery and corruption. The House Oversight and Accountability Committee has uncovered a mountain of evidence, revealing how Joe Biden abused his public office for his family's financial gain, chair James Comer of Kentucky said as he opened the hearing on Thursday. The White House has dismissed the allegations and the impeachment proceedings as a baseless political stunt. Former President Donald Trump has pushed House Republicans to impeach Mr Biden as revenge for his two impeachments. All four of the witnesses at the hearing told Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Democrat of New York, that they werent presenting any firsthand accounts of wrongdoing by Mr Biden. White House spokesman Ian Sams weighed in on the impeachment hearing on Thursday. These are the Republicans own witnesses! Admitting there is not evidence to warrant this impeachment stunt Proving this is nothing more than a baseless wild goose chase, he wrote on X. Key Points Professor compares GOP inquiry to going after Trump because of Jared Kushner Fetterman mocks House GOPs impeachment inquiry by offering Bud Light Raskin notes that not a single witness argued that a sufficient quantum of evidence exists' House Democrat leader slams Biden impeachment: They are wasting time and taxpayer dollars' Another witness says theres not enough evidence for an inquiry AOC and Raskin chide MTG for previously showing nude images 20:15 , Gustaf Kilander After Rep. MTG shows images of women Hunter Biden was allegedly involved with, Dem Reps. Raskin and AOC troll her over her previous display of nude images: MTG: This is a bathing suit Do you wear [glasses]? AOC: I have contacts in, thank you. MTG: Congratulations. pic.twitter.com/ncxvVU8Ciy The Recount (@therecount) September 28, 2023 Moskowitz mocks GOP as the Real House Republicans of Oversight' 20:02 , Gustaf Kilander hilarious and insightful stuff from Moskowitz. The whole clip is worth watching pic.twitter.com/8QCarqxbuU Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) September 28, 2023 Democrat mocks Republicans for not being interested in facts 20:00 , Gustaf Kilander Democrat Jared Moskowitz of Florida mocked the Republicans for using the impeachment process as a form of political revenge. Moskowitz: As a former director of emergency management, I know a disaster when I see one pic.twitter.com/kKXNli3ByB Acyn (@Acyn) September 28, 2023 omg these graphics Moskowitz put together have me in stitches pic.twitter.com/RoZrHIuHCL Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) September 28, 2023 Republicans refuse to say if Trump and Hunter Biden should be held accountable for crimes 19:48 , Gustaf Kilander The Republicans on the panel refused to say if Donald Trump and Hunter Biden should be held accountable for any crimes they may have committed. Rep Greg Casar of Texas asked: Will members of the oversight committee raise their hands if you believe both Hunter and Trump should be held accountable for any of indictments if convicted? While the Democrats raised their hands, the Republicans remained still. Casar: Will members of the oversight committee raise their hands if you believe both Hunter and Trump should be held accountable for any of indictments if convicted? Democrats: *raises hands* Republicans: pic.twitter.com/tZ8clpgW3c Acyn (@Acyn) September 28, 2023 Democrat slams GOP chairman for interrupting his questioning: He knows Im right' 19:28 , Gustaf Kilander Maxwell Frost tweeted on Thursday that he was interrupted by Chair James Comer during the first Biden impeachment hearing because he knows Im right. They say that this isnt an impeachment, its an impeachment inquiry to get answers. Then they call up witnesses that are just asking more questions and not providing any ANSWERS OR EVIDENCE. This hearing is very unserious. Frost succeeds in triggering Comer pic.twitter.com/JpZWTByip2 Acyn (@Acyn) September 28, 2023 This is an unmitigated disaster, GOP aide says 19:14 , Gustaf Kilander A senior Republican aide told CNN that picking witnesses that refute House Republicans arguments for impeachment is mind blowing. This is an unmitigated disaster. A Republican lawmaker complained about the partys performance, saying I wish we had more outbursts. Meanwhile, the House Judiciary panel wrote on X that .@GOPoversight and @RepJamesComer are crushing it at this hearing. Witnesses testify that weve passed the threshold of evidence to open the President Joe Biden impeachment inquiry, they wrote. Mountains of evidence showing Biden Family influence peddling. Only the beginning, they concluded. Florida Democrat lays out timeline of impeachment inquiry 18:50 , Gustaf Kilander Florida Democrat Maxwell Frost highlighted the timeline of the impeachment inquiry and how Speaker Kevin McCarthy changed his mind on whether a vote was needed for the probe in less than two weeks. He also noted that Mr Turley is stopping here on the way to his next Fox News hit. Frost uses his questioning time to highlight the timeline, specifically how McCarthy went from saying a vote was needed for impeachment to changing his mind about that in under 2 weeks He also says "Mr Turley is stopping here on the way to his next Fox News hit" pic.twitter.com/JknUENtnmO Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) September 28, 2023 VIDEO: Jamie Raskin condemns Republicans for pushing Biden impeachment amid possible shutdown 18:39 , Gustaf Kilander Senior Republicans says Comer has lost control of hearing as Democrats land punches 18:38 , Gustaf Kilander Jacqueline Alemany of The Washington Post wrote on X that a senior Republican aide said that Chairman James Comer has lost control of the hearing, which is allowing Democrats to land attacks. The aide notes that the witnesses Comer selected have disputed House GOP arguments on the impeachment inquiry, the reporter writes. The aide also said that the hearing has failed to attract mainstream media attention RE more damning evidence. Comer and staff botched this bad, a House Republican staffer told The Messenger. The staffer said that the case put forward by the GOP has been confusing while the Democrats have been on message. How can you not be better prepared for this? the staffer asked. VIDEO: Raskin says Republicans dont have even a dripping water pistol in impeachment case 18:30 , The Independent GOP goes into freak out mode after star witness says some issues may favour Biden 18:28 , Gustaf Kilander Just caught up with Rep. Garcia who told me there was palpable surprise from GOP members in the room when Turley said this. Theyre in a bit of freak out mode now, he said, because Turley was supposed to be one of their star witnesses. https://t.co/rKvFq668Rq Ali Vitali (@alivitali) September 28, 2023 VIDEO: AOC undermines GOP's Biden impeachment with one simple question 18:18 , The Independent Long arm, but little hands of Donald Trump all over this impeachment, Democrat argues 18:17 , Gustaf Kilander New Mexico Democrat Melanie Stansbury asked on Thursday, what is this hearing actually about? It's a campaign strategy. It's a misuse of official resources. It is this committee and loyalists of Donald Trump doing his bidding to bolster his chances of winning back the White House and securing their majority in the next election, she argued. And in the process, to diminish the name of impeachment which is enshrined in the US Constitution, which we take an oath to uphold and to make Donald Trump's crimes including his two impeachments and his 91 criminal indictment counts look like they're not serious crimes, she added. When you think about it, it's chilling. It's truly chilling. It's another attack on our democracy and our institutions. It's another attack on fair and free elections and the use of this committee to try to carry it out. So I just want to say I think it's obvious who the grand puppet master is here. He tweeted about it on his own social and we see the long arm, but little hands of Mr Donald Trump, whose fingerprints are all over this hearing and this sham impeachment, she added. But we know that the American people are smart, that they're not going to be fooled by what's happening here today, and especially as they shut the government down in two days with catastrophic impacts for our communities, Ms Stansbury said. Dem Rep. Melanie Stansbury: "If Donald Trump doesn't get his way, he wants his loyalists to shut down the gov't. How do we know that? Because he posted it right here on his social media and his loyalists in this committee, who are doing his bidding for him today, retweeted it!" pic.twitter.com/Seu52gLz5C Justin Baragona (@justinbaragona) September 28, 2023 White House spokesman says hearing is nothing more than a baseless wild goose chase' 17:48 , Gustaf Kilander White House spokesman Ian Sams weighed in on the impeachment hearing on Thursday. These are the Republicans own witnesses! Admitting there is not evidence to warrant this impeachment stunt Proving this is nothing more than a baseless wild goose chase, he wrote on X. These are the Republicans own witnesses! Admitting there is not evidence to warrant this impeachment stunt Proving this is nothing more than a baseless wild goose chase https://t.co/Pzz9NAf74l Ian Sams (@IanSams46) September 28, 2023 AOC accuses Florida rep of presenting fabricated image 17:45 , Gustaf Kilander Ms Ocasio-Cortez accused a fellow panel member of presenting a fake image. The gentleman from Florida presented on the screen something that looked, appeared to be a screenshot of a text message containing an explosive allegation. That screenshot of what appeared to be a text message was a fabricated image! she said. AOC: "The gentleman from Florida presented on the screen something that looked, appeared to be a screenshot of a text message containing an explosive allegation. That screenshot of what appeared to be a text message was a fabricated image!" pic.twitter.com/Qz5MmdS0bh Justin Baragona (@justinbaragona) September 28, 2023 This is an embarrassment, AOC says 17:42 , Gustaf Kilander Ms Ocasio-Cortez said, This is an embarrassment to the time and people of this country. And I would ask that the chair and I would ask that this committee elevate to the promise of our duties here and comport ourselves with the consistency and practice that is required of our seats and our duty and our oath to our responsibilities here. AOC: "We are wasting our time ... this is an embarrassment" pic.twitter.com/XXaEtPXPDj Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) September 28, 2023 AOC prompts witnesses to say they have no firsthand testimony to share 17:40 , Gustaf Kilander All four of the witnesses at the hearing told Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Democrat of New York, that they had not witnessed Mr Biden committing any crimes or were presenting any firsthand accounts. The allegations being presented by the majority are extremely serious and the prospect of impeachment is also a gravely serious matter which has been echoed by our witnesses today. And any serious impeachment investigation or inquiry relies on firsthand sworn testimony of witnesses to high crimes or misdemeanours. Today, the Republican majority has called in three witnesses to advance their case, she said. Mr Turley, I have a simple question for you. In your testimony today. Are you presenting any firsthand witness account of what's committed by the President of the United States? she asked. Mr Turley and all the other witnesses said they were not. To clarify, two individuals presented today who do have firsthand accounts surrounding the progeny of these applications are being blocked from testifying by the Republican majority, Ms Ocasio-Cortez said. Rep. @AOC (D-NY) goes one by one to each witness House Republicans brought in for the Biden impeachment inquiry hearing and asks if they are presenting any firsthand witness account of crimes committed by the president of the United States. They all answer in the negative. pic.twitter.com/I6FWodBlXs The Recount (@therecount) September 28, 2023 Where in the world is Rudy? 17:32 , Gustaf Kilander Rep Mfume made a forceful case for the calling of Mr Giuliani as a witness, holding up a sign saying where is Rudy? He attempted to shame Republicans into calling the ex-Trump lawyer and NYC mayor as a witness but to no avail. Mfume: Where in the world is Rudy Giuliani? pic.twitter.com/34eCjrf8nB Acyn (@Acyn) September 28, 2023 Republicans block Giuliani testimony again 17:29 , Gustaf Kilander The Republicans blocked the calling of Rudy Giuliani as a witness again during the hearing on Thursday following a motion by Maryland Democrat Kweisi Mfume. Dem Rep. Kweisi Mfume offers yet another motion to call Rudy Giuliani as a witness in the impeachment inquiry. The Republicans again votes on a motion to table Mifume's motion, indicating that they don't want Giuliani to testify about the Burisma theory in this inquiry. pic.twitter.com/PHnE4aKwHG Justin Baragona (@justinbaragona) September 28, 2023 We dont even know if this was an illusion or not 17:11 , Gustaf Kilander Asked about what part of the evidence is missing, Mr Turley said: The key here that the committee has to drill down on is whether they can establish a linkage with the influence peddling which is a form of corruption and the President Whether he had knowledge, whether he participated, whether he encouraged it. But he added that We simply don't know. And we don't even know if this was an illusion or not. But you can't find the answers to that. Democrat attacks in the credibility of impeachment witnesses 17:05 , Gustaf Kilander Raja Krishnamoorthi, Democrat of Illinois, attacked the credibility of the impeachment witness, bringing out social media posts and noted attempts to fundraise for a fake electors scheme in Michigan. Dem Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi attempts to show that the GOP witnesses aren't credible, flagging LinkedIn posts from Eileen O'Connor that show her warning about an "invasion" at the border and trying to raise funds for fake electors in Michigan. pic.twitter.com/JEeIpWefne Justin Baragona (@justinbaragona) September 28, 2023 Democrats and Republicans argue over introducing Devon Archers testimony 17:02 , Gustaf Kilander The Republicans seemed hesitant to enter part of the testimony by Hunter Bidens former business partner Devon Archer. The testimony was entered into the record after repeated attempts by New York Representative Dan Goldman. Comer really doesnt want Archers testimony introduced. Comer: You keep speaking about no evidence Goldman: Im trying to introduce evidence pic.twitter.com/0IWdx7vrfw Acyn (@Acyn) September 28, 2023 Shouldnt we be concerned about all those Biden towers all over the world?' 16:50 , Gustaf Kilander Representative Gerry Connolly of Virginia made his point during the hearing by deliberately mistaking Mr Biden for Mr Trump, speaking about Biden towers all over the world and shared mock concern about Mr Biden appointing his son to be in charge of US Middle East policy, in reference to Mr Trumps appointment of Mr Kushner. Connolly: "Shouldn't we concerned about all those Biden towers all over the world where foreign partnerships were formed and influence was used here in the US? I've seen these towers in Indonesia, in the Philippines, in Turkey. I've even seen one in Chicago." pic.twitter.com/U10K2K5JSQ Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) September 28, 2023 Shouldnt we be concerned about all those Biden towers all over the world where foreign partnerships were formed and influence was used here in the US? Ive seen these towers in Indonesia, in the Philippines, in Turkey. Ive even seen one in Chicago, Mr Connelly said sarcastically. Brilliant stuff here from Connolly pic.twitter.com/F3rZlBmUe8 Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) September 28, 2023 Professor compares GOP inquiry to going after Trump because of Jared Kushner 16:36 , Gustaf Kilander Mr Raskin asked Prof Gephardt what he makes of the idea of impeaching a president for something his son did when the president wasnt in office? Just imagine if the names were switched. Just imagine if this was Jared Kushner, the professor said, referring to Donald Trumps son-in-law. RASKIN: What do make of the idea of impeaching a president for something his son did when the president wasn't in office? GERHARDT: Just imagine if the names were switched. Just imagine if this was Jared Kushner. pic.twitter.com/2s7F8PGP7m Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) September 28, 2023 Fetterman mocks House GOPs impeachment inquiry by offering Bud Light 16:33 , Gustaf Kilander This morning, I directed my staff to deliver a gift to congratulate and salute Representative Comer and his Team America squad as they embark on their historic impeachment journey. pic.twitter.com/g9yFlC48HX Senator John Fetterman (@SenFettermanPA) September 28, 2023 Raskin notes that not a single witness argued that a sufficient quantum of evidence exists' 16:23 , Gustaf Kilander Jamie Raskin, the leading Democrat on the panel, said during the hearing on Thursday: Im struck by the fact that of the 4 expert witnesses brought together today, not a single one of them argued that a sufficient quantum of evidence exists to justify the impeachment of President Biden. Raskin: "I'm struck by the fact that of the 4 expert witnesses brought together today, not a single one of them argued that a sufficient quantum of evidence exists to justify the impeachment of President Biden." pic.twitter.com/jXITbVKAkU Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) September 28, 2023 GOP witness says she expected other question from Smith 16:21 , Andrew Feinberg Wow. @RepJasonSmith didn't stick to his script and the GOP witness (O'Connor) flat-out said she'd expected a different question from him. Andrew Feinberg (@AndrewFeinberg) September 28, 2023 House Democrat leader slams Biden impeachment: They are wasting time and taxpayer dollars' 16:19 , Gustaf Kilander House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York, slammed the impeachment proceedings on Thursday. They are wasting time and taxpayer dollars in an illegitimate impeachment inquiry when were about 48 away or so from an extreme MAGA Republican government shutdown and this is what theyre focused on? he asked. They are wasting time and taxpayer dollars in an illegitimate impeachment inquiry when were about 48 away or so from an extreme MAGA Republican government shutdown and this is what theyre focused on? Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) on House Republicans pic.twitter.com/vMSIrPmtNQ The Recount (@therecount) September 28, 2023 A fishing expedition is not a legitimate purpose' 16:07 , Gustaf Kilander Professor Gerhardt said that a fishing expedition is not a legitimate purpose for an impeachment inquiry. "A fishing expedition is not a legitimate purpose" -- Prof. Gerhardt uses his opening statement to take apart the GOP impeachment inquiry pic.twitter.com/gFh2mW1siR Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) September 28, 2023 Another witness says theres not enough evidence for an inquiry 16:06 , Gustaf Kilander Impeachment hearing witness Professor Michael Gerhardt said in his opening statement that theres the necessity for credible evidence of the commission of treason, bribery and other high crimes and misdemeanours. There is not at least not that I've yet heard such credible evidence let me give you an example of what I fear is similar to the current proceedings, he said. Hunter Biden is arrested for speeding in a car owned by his father, and the police go after the father, he said about the impeachment proceedings. I don't think that's how the law should work. I don't think that's how impeachment should work. Congressman Jordan, whom I respect a great deal, when he said there are four facts. Hunter Biden was on the board of Burisma. Hunter Biden was not qualified. So far, by the way, nothing about President Biden. Third, there were executives who asked Hunter Biden for help. Again, not yet any proof of any kind of complicity of President Biden. And lastly, Joe Biden gave a speech, he added. If that's what exists as a basis for this inquiry, it is not sufficient. I am not here today to even suggest that there was corruption, fraud or any wrongdoing, witness says 16:00 , Gustaf Kilander Witness Bruce Dubinsky, a forensic accountant, said in his opening statement: Let me be clear, I'm not prejudging the facts that have emerged to date with regard to the Biden family and associates, businesses and the money they received that had had its origins from foreign sources. I am not here today to even suggest that there was corruption, fraud or any wrongdoing. In my opinion, more information needs to be gathered and assessed before I would make such an assessment, he added. Watch the hearing live 15:53 , Gustaf Kilander GOP witness says current evidence wouldnt support articles of impeachment' 15:51 , Gustaf Kilander A witness for the Republicans, Fox News legal analyst Jonathan Turley, told the panel that he doesnt believe that the current evidence would support articles of impeachment. But I also do believe that the House has passed the threshold for an impeachment inquiry, he added. Fox News legal analyst Jonathan Turley, one of the GOP's impeachment witnesses, says: "I do not believe that the current evidence would support articles of impeachment... But I also do believe that the House has passed the threshold for an impeachment inquiry." pic.twitter.com/x3cfYKwr5o Justin Baragona (@justinbaragona) September 28, 2023 Panel votes not to subpoena Rudy Giualiani and Lev Parnas 15:47 , Gustaf Kilander Jamie Raskin called on the committee to subpoena Rudy Giuliani and Lev Parnas but then the panel voted against the measure. Jim Jordan proposes a motion to table Raskin's motion to call Parnas and Giuliani to testify before the committee. James Comes puts that up to a vote, which eventually passes along party lines. So they will not be subpoenaing Giuliani and Parnas. pic.twitter.com/31CX60xmUv Justin Baragona (@justinbaragona) September 28, 2023 Raskin says GOP has nothing on Joe Biden 15:38 , Gustaf Kilander Mr Raskin said in his defence speech of Mr Biden that If the Republicans had a smoking gun or even a dripping water pistol, they would be presenting it today but theyve got nothing on Joe Biden. Raskin: If the Republicans had a smoking gun or even a dripping water pistol, they would be presenting it today but they've got nothing on Joe Biden. pic.twitter.com/ISINgcrlnJ Acyn (@Acyn) September 28, 2023 Top Democrat on panel says all that matters to GOP is what Trump wants 15:33 , Gustaf Kilander Mr Raskin said that Speaker McCarthys invertebrate appeasement of the most fanatical elements of his conference now threatens the well-being of every American ... the Constitution is irrelevant to them. What counts is what Donald Trump wants. Raskin: "Speaker McCarthy's invertebrate appeasement of the most fanatical elements of his conference now threatens the well-being of every American ... the Constitution is irrelevant to them. What counts is what Donald Trump wants." pic.twitter.com/tNfHGDH4Fz Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) September 28, 2023 Raskin slams witness called by GOP: Not one of them an eyewitness to a presidential crime of any kind' 15:30 , Gustaf Kilander Maryland Democrat Jamie Raskin slammed the witnesses called by the Republicans on the panel. Not one of them an eyewitness to a presidential crime of any kind. Not one of them is a direct fact witness about any of the events related to Ukraine and Burisma, he said. Jamie Raskin rips the GOP impeachment inquiry witnesses: "Not one of them an eyewitness to a presidential crime of any kind. Not one of them is a direct fact witness about any of the events related to Ukraine and Burisma." pic.twitter.com/Xu7Dbnrhni Justin Baragona (@justinbaragona) September 28, 2023 Panel chairman claims Biden abused his public office for his familys financial gain' 15:29 , Gustaf Kilander The House Oversight and Accountability Committee has uncovered a mountain of evidence, revealing how Joe Biden abused his public office for his familys financial gain, chair James Comer of Kentucky said as he opened the hearing on Thursday. For years, President Biden has lied to the American people about his knowledge of and participation in his familys corrupt business schemes, at least 10 times Joe Biden lied to the American people that he never spoke to his family about their business dealings, he added. He lied by telling the American people that there was an absolute wall between his official government duties and his personal life. Lets be clear. There was no wall. The door was wide open to those who purchased what a business associate described as the Biden brand, Mr Comer said. Legal observers have consistently said theres not enough evidence to say that Mr Biden is guilty of corruption. Mr Comer claimed that evidence reveals that then-Vice President Joe Biden spoke, dined, and developed relationships with his family's foreign business targets. These business targets include foreign oligarchs who sent millions of dollars to his family. It also includes a Chinese national who wired a quarter of a million dollars to his son. Joe Biden also lied to the American people about his family making money in China. He continued to lie about it even when the House Oversight Committee uncovered bank wires, revealing how the Bidens received millions from a Chinese company with significant ties to Chinese intelligence and the Chinese Communist Party, he added. Just this week, we uncovered two additional wires into Hunter Biden that originated in Beijing from Chinese nationals. This happened when Joe Biden was running for President of the United States and Joe Biden's home is listed as the beneficiary address, he claimed. Today, the House Oversight Committee has uncovered how the Bidens and their associates created over 20 shell companies, most of which were created when Joe Biden was vice president and raked in over $20 million between 2014 and 2019. We've also identified nine Biden family members who have participated in or benefited from these shady business schemes. What were the Biden's selling to make all this money? Top Biden administration officials struggled to fend off accusations and incendiary questions Thursday from House lawmakers who accused them of poor decisionmaking and political bias in establishing a headquarters for U.S. Space Command. During a House Armed Services Committee (HASC) hearing, lawmakers pummeled Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall and Gen. James Dickinson, the head of Space Command, for what they said was an attempt to punish Alabama by refusing to house Space Command in the state for political reasons. The officials defended the decision to keep Space Command in Colorado Springs, Colo., instead of transferring it to Huntsville, as originally planned, arguing it would maintain military readiness. Readiness manifests itself in the transition process of moving to another location, Kendall said, adding the process of losing civilian workforce and having to reestablish a trained workforce at the new location impacts military operational capabilities. President Bidens choice for the headquarters has infuriated Alabama lawmakers, who repeatedly accused the officials of selecting Colorado because it would favor Bidens political campaign. Alabama Rep. Terri Sewell (D) said Huntsville is the best location because it has a cheaper cost-of-living, a plethora of engineers and a history as a space center. No place is more equipped, competent, capable and better suited to headquarter the Space Command, she said. Weve made a political decision over a competency decision. This is simply unfair. But it wasnt just Alabama lawmakers who were upset. Several members of the committee from other states, most of them Republicans, either cried foul or expressed disappointment in a decision process that created a major clash over the future of the headquarters. This has been a horrible process, said Democratic Rep. Adam Smith (Wash.), ranking member of the committee, saying the American people were owed an explanation for how exactly we bollocksed up a decision to build a command headquarters. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Ala.), the chairman of the committee who is investigating the Space Command decision, said the argument that relocation would harm operational readiness is fabricated and that he intends to ensure there are no funds for a permanent headquarters in Colorado. There is no reason to justify whats happened other than my view, political considerations, he said. We need to demonstrate to the American people that preparedness and not politics determines important investments like this. Despite the grilling, lawmakers provided little new evidence that would have directly shown the decision was politically motivated, other than accusations. Former President Trump revived Space Command in 2019 and allowed a temporary headquarters in Colorados Peterson Air Force Base while a permanent location would be in Alabamas Redstone Arsenal base. The Biden administration has inquired into whether that was a political decision, but no independent reviews found any wrongdoing. However, Biden said in late July he would keep the headquarters in Colorado because it would maintain military readiness, as the base could not become operational until the early 2030s at best. Both Kendall and Dickinson leaned into that argument Thursday and said the process was based on sound military decision. Dickinson said he expects Space Command to become fully operational by the end of the year in Colorado. In my view, selecting Colorado Springs as the permanent basing location for U.S. Space Command best sustains our human capital investments and ultimately maintains our readiness at the highest levels while imposing the least disruption, he said. But Alabama lawmakers insisted at the hearing that there was more to the story than meets the eye. Huntsville finished in first place in two Air Force reviews that conducted a national survey of the best location, while Colorado Springs finished fourth and fifth. Lawmakers said the U.S. military should be choosing the best options available. This deal smells mighty funky, Rep. Nick LaLota (R-N.Y.) said at the hearing. Both Republicans and Democrats are skeptical of how fifth place was chosen over first place. Lawmakers also accused the administration of choosing Colorado because Alabama has restrictive abortion laws, arguing the Yellowhammer State is being punished a charge that Kendall denied. NBC News had reported in May the Biden administration was considering ditching the relocation plan because of abortion laws in Alabama. Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-Texas) said it was suspicious the decision came after Alabama enacted near-total abortion laws and amid GOP Alabama Sen. Tommy Tubervilles hold on senior officers over a Pentagon abortion policy. It was purely politics, the politics of abortion in America, he said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. FILE PHOTO: Democratic U.S. presidential candidate Tom Steyer speaks with fellow Democratic U.S. presidential candidate and former U.S. Vice President Joe Biden during the Martin Luther King Jr. Day parade in Columbia By Jeff Mason SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - President Joe Biden raised money for his re-election campaign on Wednesday at the San Francisco home of billionaire climate activist Tom Steyer as part of an end-of-the-quarter push to bolster his 2024 chances. In his remarks, Biden warned about the dangers of climate change, among other topics. Biden later was to attend a second fundraising event in San Francisco hosted by a co-founder of Facebook, Andrew McCollum . McCollum is now chief executive officer of streaming service Philo. He spoke at a fundraiser in Atherton, California, on Tuesday hosted by hosted by Liz Simons and Mark Heising. On Thursday in Phoenix, Biden will speak at a final fund-raising event before ending his Western swing and returning to Washington. Biden has relied on Steyer in the recent past. A month ago Biden spent a week of vacation at a vacation home owned by Steyer on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. The White House said he paid a market rate to rent the home. Biden's campaign said on July 14 that he had raised $72 million during the first quarter since his campaign formally launched in April. (Reporting by Jeff Mason and Steve Holland; Editing by Josie Kao) SAN FRANCISCO - With a government shutdown looming, President Joe Biden lashed out Wednesday at House Speaker Kevin McCarthy , accusing him of abandoning their deal to raise the debt ceiling and getting cornered by the right-flank of the Republican Party. The fact is that I think that the speaker is making a choice between the speakership and American interest," Biden said in remarks at a campaign fundraiser at the home of Tom Steyer, a billionaire businessman who ran unsuccessfully for the Democratic nomination in 2020. McCarthy has been unable to find a path within his own caucus to pass a continuing resolution or budget in the Republican-controlled House that appeases hardline Republicans who have threatened ousting him as speaker if he cuts a deal with Democrats. President Joe Biden speaks during a meeting with the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology, Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) ORG XMIT: CAEV207 The deadline for congressional action is Sunday before the government shuts down. Biden called a potential shutdown disastrous" and pointed to the bipartisan package to suspend the nation's debt ceiling that overwhelming majorities in both chambers passed to avert a default in June. The deal included spending concessions that both Biden and McCarthy endorsed. Hard-right House Republicans now want 8% cuts to many federal services. We made a deal, Biden said, stressing that he personally negotiated with the speaker to make sure the U.S. didnt renege on debt. Now they come along and say ... we didnt mean it. A government shutdown would have major repercussions. That includes furloughing federal workers without pay, requiring "essential" federal workers to work without pay, halting funds for certain social-welfare programs and potentially closing national parks. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., talks to reporters as Congress returns to work in crisis mode with just days to go before a government shutdown, at the Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023. Biden, addressing a team of science and technology advisers earlier in the day, said a government shutdown would impact vital work in science and health including cancer research and food safety. The American people need our Republican friends in the House of Representatives to do their job: Fund the government," Biden said, while holding out hope a deal can be struck. I dont think anything is inevitable in politics, Biden said of a shutdown. But when asked he acknowledged he doesn't know how to avoid one. "If I knew that I would have done it already." Reach Joey Garrison on X, formerly known as Twitter, @joeygarrison. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden: McCarthy faces choice of 'speakership and American interest' U.S. President Joe Biden meets with the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) in San Francisco By Jeff Mason, Steve Holland TEMPE, Arizona (Reuters) -President Joe Biden launched a wide-ranging attack on Republican Donald Trump on Thursday, warning that his predecessor is a threat to American democracy and drawing a sharp distinction between himself and his likely 2024 election opponent. To make his most extensive critique of Trump this year, Biden, a Democrat, chose an event to honor the late Republican Senator John McCain of Arizona, a former presidential candidate, fighter pilot and Vietnam prisoner of war who Trump had denounced as "not a war hero." "There is something dangerous happening in America," Biden said, detailing Trump threats against U.S. officials. In a speech at the Tempe Center for the Arts in Arizona, a likely battleground state in 2024, Biden noted that Trump had suggested in recent weeks that the chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff deserves to be killed and the Department of Justice should be defunded. Biden also recalled remarks that Trump reportedly made after he abandoned a plan to visit an American military cemetery outside of Paris in 2018. The Atlantic reported at the time that Trump had called the war dead "suckers" and "losers," comments that Trump denied. "Is John a sucker?" Biden said of McCain, then posed the same question about his son, Beau Biden, who, like McCain, died of brain cancer, which Biden believes his son contracted from military service near an Iraqi burn pit. Trump's official campaign social media account on Thursday posted a Washington Examiner story disputing the Atlantic reporting. Biden drew a sharp contrast between his own beliefs and Trump's, who has said he considered himself above the U.S. Constitution, the founding documents that lay out a system of checks and balances. "I believe very strongly that the defining feature of our democracy is our Constitution," the president said. "I believe in free and fair elections and the peaceful transfer of power." Asked about Biden's speech, Trump's campaign spokesman, Steven Cheung, said, "the radical Left Democrats, now led by Crooked Joe Biden, are the greatest threat to democracy the United States of America has ever faced." Biden said he does not think all Republicans ascribe to the "MAGA" agenda, a reference to Trump's Make America Great Again slogan. But he said, "there is no question that todays Republican Party is driven and intimidated by MAGA Republican extremists." Biden's message is likely to be repeated often in a campaign race dominated by the Democratic incumbent and the Republican former president. It comes days before a likely government shutdown, a situation forced by Republicans loyal to Trump in the House of Representatives. Biden's pursuit of a second four-year term comes amid concerns about his advanced age - he will turn 81 in November - and economic worries in the U.S. He has stepped up his warnings about the potential threat to democracy posed by Trump as exemplified by the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Trump faces multiple indictments, including for his role in the deadly Jan. 6 attack. Biden announced funding from the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan to build the McCain Library in partnership with the McCain Institute and Arizona State University. "We'd argue like two brothers ... then we'd go to lunch together," said Biden, who visited a memorial to McCain in Hanoi earlier this month. Biden's speech followed the second 2024 Republican presidential debate held on Wednesday in California, which often devolved into cacophony, petty fights and bizarre comments by the seven candidates. Trump, who again skipped the debate, was labeled "missing in action" by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, while former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie mocked him as "Donald Duck." Trump instead gave a speech in Detroit to autoworkers, where he attacked Biden's support for electric vehicles. (Reporting by Jeff Mason; Writing by Steve Holland; Editing by Michael Perry, Heather Timmons, Nick Zieminski and Jonathan Oatis) During the Republican debate Wednesday night, the first question about abortion didnt arrive until there were just 15 minutes left in the two-hour event. Fox News Dana Perino, one of the moderators, turned to Ron DeSantis and asked: How are you going to win over independent pro-choice voters in Arizona? DeSantis used the opportunity to attack Donald Trump s comments about abortion. I want him to look into the eyes and tell people who have been fighting this fight for a long time, he said. Later in his answer, he added: I think we should hold the Democrats accountable for their extremism, supporting abortion all the way up until the moment of birth. That is infanticide and that is wrong. Chris Christie used the moment to boast about vetoing Planned Parenthood funding. But what you need is a leader who could talk to people and make them understand that if youre pro-life, you have to be pro-life for the entire life, not just the nine months in the womb, he said. And that was it. After years of elevating abortion as the preeminent social issue among Republicans, abortion barely came up during the second GOP debate. The late timing of the question was the networks decision and not the candidates, but the limited airplay certainly suggested how little Republican figures are prioritizing the issueas did the other candidates decision not to dwell on it or bring it up on their own. Roe v. Wade was struck down, yes, but abortion remains an unsettled political issue. The debate over abortion hasnt been resolved; Republicans have simply figured out that, in this particular moment, railing against abortion isnt a winning political strategy. And that wasnt the only culture war issue that was underplayed at the debate. Candidates spent more time discussing border security and government spending than LGBTQ+ rights and race. And it was noticeable that the conversations that did come up omitted one particular word: God. The religious right has long been behind some of the biggest culture war debates in this countrywhite evangelicals stirred up anxiety over gender roles as part of the earliest culture warsand yet none of the candidates spoke of their religious conviction behind their policy positions. School choice and parental rightskey terms in the debates over critical race theory and LGBTQ+ acceptance in schoolscame up during the debate, but not alongside arguments about parents religious rights. Instead, there was an almost scientific note to the discussion. Transgenderism, especially in kids, is a mental health disorder, Vivek Ramaswamy incorrectly asserted. He also made the case (again, baselessly) that schools keeping parents ignorant of their childs sexual orientation and gender identity increased the risk of the childs suicide. Mike Pence, one of the two more explicitly religious-right candidates on the stage, vowed to pass a federal ban on transgender chemical or surgical surgery anywhere in the country. It was all consistently secular. No one expects the candidates to give sermons, but all candidates likely know that they need support from white evangelicals if they stand a chance at nabbing the GOP nomination: White evangelicals make up more than a quarter of all voters, and they vote overwhelmingly Republican. So why not use the major televised moment to make an explicitly religious case for your candidacy? It may be that these candidates have come to one conclusion: The religious right is losing some control of their party. The explicitly Christian nationalist candidates, such as Pennsylvanias gubernatorial candidate Doug Mastriano, were walloped in the most recent midterm elections, their losses ultimately helping to shrink the GOPs hold on the House to an embarrassingly thin margin. That poor showing served as a wake-up call for Donald Trump, who went on to distance himself from the more extreme abortion bills that state and local Republicans have pushed. As Ron DeSantis hoped to argue Wednesday night, that could have been seen as a betrayal to the religious right. And yet, its unlikely that Trumps turn on abortion will hurt him. No matter how much Trump acts counter to evangelical ideals, or fumbles when quoting the Bible, or fails to even really mention religion, Republicans believe him to be a man of God. New polling from the Deseret News found that some 53 percent of Republicans believe Trump is a man of faitha higher percentage than Mike Pence received. The deeply religious Tim Scott garnered only 31 percent in this poll. The religiously evasive DeSantis beat Scott with 47 percent. It seems almost as if the perception of the candidates religiosity has more to do with their popularity and name recognition than anything else. And some scholars have been arguing this for some time. In 2021, Pew Research Center put out a poll that validated what some had already been noticing anecdotally: During Trumps presidency, the number of white people who identified as evangelical increased. Ryan Burge, a political science assistant professor at Eastern Illinois University, explained what he saw going on in an analysis in the New York Times: Instead of theological affinity for Jesus Christ, millions of Americans are being drawn to the evangelical label because of its association with the G.O.P. This is happening in two different ways. The first is that many Americans who have begun to embrace the evangelical identity are people who hardly ever attend religious services. The evidence points in one direction: For many Americans, to be a conservative Republican is to be an evangelical Christian, regardless of whether they ever attend a Sunday service. The second factor bolstering evangelicalism on surveys is that more people are embracing the label who have no attachment to Protestant Christianity. For example, the share of Catholics who also identified as evangelicals (or born again) rose to 15 percent in 2018 from 9 percent in 2008. It used to be that when many people thought about evangelicalism, they conjured up an image of a fiery preacher imploring them to accept Jesus. Now the data indicate that more and more Americans are conflating evangelicalism with Republicanism and melding two forces to create a movement that is not entirely about politics or religion but power. To be a Republican culture warrior is to be an evangelical, as these new cultural evangelicals see itand what matters is the cultural victory, not the theology behind the politics. So as Trump supporters have said again and again over the years, he is a fighter for their cause. It doesnt matter how much of a believer he actually is. But ironically, the swell in the evangelical ranks may have loosened some of the rhetorical power of the religious right, simply by diluting their actual religious intensity. If cultural evangelicals care more about having a fighter than a spiritual leader, the culture war issues can become more secularly political while still working as a political tool. And then Republican candidates, standing on a debate stage, dont need to say God. A terms of service agreement that long list of legalese that most people ignore could cost Samsung millions of dollars in a mass arbitration action over the Illinois biometric privacy law. A Chicago federal judge ruled the South Korean electronics giant must pay more than $4 million in filing fees to begin an arbitration case brought by 50,000 petitioners alleging their Samsung Galaxy devices violated the law by using facial recognition technology without consent. Advertisement Filed last year with the American Arbitration Association, the petitioners paid more than $2 million in initial filing fees, but Samsung refused to pay its share, according to the lawsuit. Employing the only legal recourse allowed by Samsungs terms of service agreement, the mass arbitration action could result in hundreds of millions in damages, with payouts of $5,000 or more to the individual petitioners, said Jonathan Gardner, a New York-based attorney whose firm, Labaton Sucharow, brought the claims. Advertisement Both Samsung and its attorneys did not respond to requests for comment. Samsungs terms of service agreement prohibits class-action lawsuits and requires users to resolve disputes exclusively through individual arbitration. The agreement designates the American Arbitration Association to hear the cases. But a coordinated online recruitment effort created the mass arbitration, an alternative to class-action lawsuits that has gained traction in recent years, with 50,000 Illinois Samsung Galaxy owners filing claims Sept. 7, 2022. The petitioners paid their share of the initial filing fee, but on Sept. 27, Samsung notified the American Arbitration Association it would not pay its share of the fees, contending the petitioner list included discrepancies such as deceased claimants and non-Illinois residents. Samsung did pay the fee for 14 petitioners who had moved to California, where the state imposes sanctions in the event of nonpayment for arbitration cases. The American Arbitration Association cannot comment on active cases, a spokesperson said Thursday. Attorneys for the petitioners took their case to Chicago federal court in October 2022, seeking to compel Samsung to pay the fee for the other 49,986 Samsung Galaxy owners in Illinois and begin the arbitration process. In his Sept. 12 ruling, U.S. District Judge Harry Leinenweber dismissed more than 14,000 petitioners who failed to show they resided within the courts jurisdiction in the Northern District of Illinois. But as to the broader arbitration action, he said Samsung needed to pay the $4.125 million fee and adhere to the dispute resolution rules it laid out in its own terms of service agreement. His opinion and order borrowed a line from Shakespeare to indicate Samsung was essentially blown up by its own legal device. Advertisement The company may not have expected so many would seek arbitration against it, but neither should it be allowed to blanch at the cost of the filing fees it agreed to pay in the arbitration clause, Leinenweber said. Alas, Samsung was hoist with its own petard. Samsung filed an appeal of Leinenwebers ruling Sept. 15 with the 7th U.S. Circuit Court in Chicago. Gardner said it is not an appealable order and expects the 7th Circuit to reject the case. He is planning to refile the petitions to get the mass arbitration moving forward for the nearly 36,000 Illinois Samsung owners that remain qualified, according to the ruling. And when Samsung gets its bill, he expects the company will have to pay it. For Samsung, there may be a lot more money at stake than the initial $4 million filing fee. The arbitration alleges Samsung violated the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act through its Gallery app, the default photo viewer installed on its Galaxy smartphones and tablets. Through the app, Samsung collects, uses and stores biometric identifiers such as face scans of Illinois residents without consent, the arbitration claims allege. The states biometric privacy act, which was passed in 2008, is considered the strictest in the U.S. and requires companies to get permission before using technologies such as facial recognition and fingerprint scans to identify customers or employees. Advertisement The law allows $5,000 per person in damages for intentional or reckless violations and $1,000 for negligent violations. In 2021, a California federal judge approved a landmark $650 million settlement for Illinois Facebook users in a class-action lawsuit over alleged violations by the social media giant of the biometric privacy law. Facebook, now known as Meta, also announced it would shut down its facial recognition system and delete more than a billion facial recognition templates it had stored. Nearly 1.3 million Illinois Facebook users who successfully filed claims collected about $428 each from the settlement. Labaton Sucharow was co-counsel in the Facebook class-action lawsuit. In February, the Illinois Supreme Court opened the door to significantly higher damages in a case involving a Chicago White Castle manager when it ruled that biometric privacy claims accrue every time information is gathered without consent. Gardner said the arbitration will argue that Samsung intentionally violated the biometric privacy law. Each image collected would represent two violations one for not obtaining user consent and one for not having a destruction policy meaning each petitioner could represent at least $10,000 in damages, he said. And we will argue that every photograph, every time they collected biometric information, is a separate violation, Gardner said. So the violations will start to stack up. Advertisement Taking the Samsung case to federal court also made public the usually private world of mass arbitration, where resolutions often remain undisclosed beyond the participants. For many companies, mandatory arbitration has long been a way to insulate themselves against potentially costly class-action lawsuits. The rise of mass arbitration may be causing some companies to rethink the strategy, Gardner said. Mass arbitration has emerged as a way of resolving a large number of individual claims in consumer and employment disputes, the American Arbitration Association said in a page devoted to the growing practice on its website. Gardner said his firm has settled more than 15 mass arbitration cases in recent years, generating multimillion dollar payouts. While unable to disclose the private settlements, the Samsung arbitration could significantly eclipse the rest, he said. Samsung is the biggest, the largest number of clients, Gardner said. That translates to the largest exposure for the company, the largest amount we would insist upon recovering. rchannick@chicagotribune.com Sept. 30 update: The federal government shutdown has been averted the night of Sept. 30 as a temporary stopgap measure known as a continuing resolution passed the House and Senate and President Joe Biden is expected to sign it before midnight. All federal agencies, including the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service, will remain open. No bathrooms on the Blue Ridge Parkway? Longer lines at Asheville Regional Airport? Closed Asheville child care centers? While many of these possibilities are still up in the air, the disruptions that come with federal government shutdowns have become unnervingly more familiar. If congressional Republicans fail to reach an agreement by this weekend, the country could see its 22nd shutdown in the last five decades. Amid largely stalled negotiations on Capitol Hill, the federal Office of Management and Budget has already begun the process of advising agencies which employees it may have to furlough ahead of a looming deadline at midnight Sept. 30, according to reporting by USA TODAY. Here are some ways the potential federal government shutdown could impact residents and visitors to Asheville and Western North Carolina: Find more information about the potential shutdown here, Operations in the Absence of Appropriations | U.S. Department of the Interior (doi.gov) A woman reads the names of the mountains on a sign at the Pisgah Inn on the Blue Ridge Parkway on May 30, 2019. Would national parks in WNC close? Some of the best-known and most beloved federal agencies in Western North Carolina are its national parks. Citizen Times calls to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Carl Sandburg Home were all referred to regional and Washington offices of the National Park Service. NPS Chief of Public Affairs Officer Jenny Anzelmo-Sarles told the Citizen Times in a Sept. 26 email that NPS doesnt have any information to offer "at this time." However, during previous government shutdowns the parkway, Smokies and Sandburg Home closed and limited visitor resources, including roads, trails, campgrounds, visitor centers and bathrooms. The Smokies sprawl across a half-million acres of rugged, forested terrain in WNC and eastern Tennessee. It's the most-visited national park, with some 12.9 million visitors in 2022 and employs over 300 people. The parkway curves along some of the highest peaks in the Eastern United States, stretching 469 miles from its start at Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, passing through Asheville, and ending at the entrance to the Smokies in Cherokee. It is the most visited unit of the National Park Service, with some 15.7 million visitors in 2022. Leesa Brandon, spokesperson for the parkway told the Citizen Times in a Sept. 26 email that July and October are typically the highest visitation months on the parkway. For the past two years, there have been more than 2 million visitors in October, hiking and viewing fall foliage at places such as Graveyard Fields and Mount Pisgah. There are currently 136 permanent employees on the parkway and 58 temporary employees, which are primarily seasonal, according to Brandon. During the October 2013 federal shutdown, Bruce O'Connell, owner of the Pisgah Inn on the parkway, refused to close the inn and restaurant. O'Connell told the Citizen Times Sept. 27 that because the parkway is a "thoroughfare," highway that connects to other roads, it doesn't have to shut down like other national parks. "I have every reason to expect that the Blue Ridge Parkway, since it is a thoroughfare, which is really different than most of the other national parks, will remain just what it did back in 2013, open," he said. "If something was to change and an official shutdown from the government happened and I get some letter saying I've got to close then .. stay tuned." The Pisgah Inn has around 50 employees, according to O'Connell. More: Foliage forecast: Looking to travel to WNC, Asheville? Experts predict peak fall colors During previous government shutdowns the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park closed and limited visitor resources. The NPS had no additional comment on whether the roads and hiking trails will be closed, as well as whether employees would be furloughed, both actions that have been taken during previous government shutdowns. "We are hopeful that a lapse in congressional appropriations will not occur. I dont have any updates on our contingency plan at this time," said Polly Angelakis, superintendent of Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site in Flat Rock told the Hendersonville Times-News by email Sept. 27. The U.S. Department of the Interior sent out a news release Sept. 29 announcing that if a shutdown occurs NPS sites will be closed. "At NPS sites across the country, gates will be locked, visitor centers will be closed, and thousands of park rangers will be furloughed. Accordingly, the public will be encouraged not to visit sites during the period of lapse in appropriations out of consideration for protection of natural and cultural resources, as well as visitor safety," the release said. Only necessary NPS staff that protect "life and the property" will continue to work during the shutdown, this includes law enforcement and emergency response, according to the release. For more on the parkway, visit www.nps.gov/blri or check the Facebook page at facebook.com/BlueRidgeNPS. For more on the Smokies, visit nps.gov/grsm or check Facebook/com/GreatSmokyMountainsNPS. Views along the Blue Ridge Parkway. National forests Kimberly DeVall, spokesperson for the U.S. Forest Service in North Carolina, said she had not yet heard what the operational status of WNC's national forests the Pisgah and Nantahala will be if there is a lapse in appropriations. "My guess is we may not know until Friday (Sept. 29)," DeVall said. DeVall forwarded the Citizen Times questions to regional and Washington offices for the U.S. Forest Service, but the paper did not receive immediate responses. More than a dozen cars park illegally along the Blue Ridge Parkway near the full parking lot at Graveyard Fields on July 13, 2020. During previous government shutdowns, WNC has seen the closure of national parks and national forests, leading to fallen trees on roads, closed roads, trails and visitor centers and the furlough of all but essential employees including law enforcement. The Nantahala and Pisgah national forests that sweep across the mountains of Western North Carolina contain 1.1 million acres and receive about 5 million annual visitors. They contain some of the most popular roads and attractions such as Bent Creek Experimental Forest, U.S. 276 near Brevard, Looking Glass Falls and the Black Balsam area's backcountry hiking trails. More info at www.fs.usda.gov/nfsnc. More: 5 popular waterfalls to check out in WNC, plus tips to stay safe Will flights continue out of Asheville Regional Airport? Airport spokesperson Tina Kinsey said services provided by the airport are unlikely to be affected by the shutdown, but federal agencies in the airport might have a different story. "We are watching for the governments shutdown plan we dont have details yet regarding potential impact. The federal agencies that operate at the airport are the TSA and the FAA, so the services they provide are what we are watching," Kinsey said. Tina Kinsey, vice president of marketing, public relations and air service for the Asheville Regional Airport. "We dont anticipate impact, because the customer-facing services they provide are considered 'essential,' so staff members will most likely continue to work without pay during a potential shutdown. But, again, we are waiting to see the plan." As the airport is privately owned, passengers shouldn't expect any building closures or absent maintenance staff, but passengers could see longer lines if TSA employees are furloughed. "We encourage travelers to stay in contact with their airlines via airline websites or apps, for the most up-to-date information about specific flights. The airport will post relevant information on our website to direct passengers," Kinsey said. The airport is seeing its busiest time in history, breaking its passenger record in July, with 244,504 passengers flying through the airport surpassing its previous passenger record of 226,839 in June. Visit https://flyavl.com. More: Eagles, ammo, live lobster and other things TSA allows through Asheville Regional Airport Will Head Start centers remain open? Head Start is a federal program that provides early childhood education, nutrition, health, and family services to children of low-income families. Brian Repass, Head Start director at Community Action Opportunities told the Citizen Times that the shutdown won't impact them. "The shutdown will not impact CAO Head Start, at this point. Our grant funds run Jan. 1 to Dec. 31. If the shutdown continues past Dec. 31, it could be a problem," Repass said. Kaitlyn Guyer, vice president of grants and continuous improvement at Verner for Early Learning said that it depends on the Head Start program. Tim Blenco, with the YMCA, paints with children at the Verner Center for Early Learning June 27, 2023 in Asheville. Each program has a different time period of when they receive their grant. Our grant period is from Sept. 1 to Aug. 31, we just got our grant at the beginning of this month," Guyer said. Head Start programs mostly serve families who rely on federal programs for food and living assistance. "I have been thinking a lot about the impact that it would have on the families that we serve and what we would need to do to be able to support them through that," she said. The Verner Center for Early Learning has around 90 staff members and CAO Head Start has 95 employees. For more on Head Start programs offered in Asheville, visit Vernerearlylearning.org or CommunityActionOpportunities.org. More: Hillcrest Head Start opens after being forced to close last year: Who can sign up? Will WIC payments continue? One of the federal programs Guyer is referring to is WIC, the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants and children that serves low-income pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding women, infants and children up to age 5, according to the U.S. food and nutrition website. Stacey Wood, spokesperson for Buncombe County's Health and Human Services department, told the Citizen Times that they haven't heard anything about WIC services stopping or being impacted by the shutdown. Buncombe County Public Health building on Coxe Avenue "These situations have come up in the past and WIC was not impacted, as Congress found agreeable terms quickly," Wood said. Summer Tonizzo, spokesperson for N.C. Department of Health and Human Services told the Citizen Times in a Sept. 27 email that in 2013, the federal shutdown resulted in some of the NCDHHS team being furloughed and some services "curtailed or paused." "We will have a better understanding of impacts from a potential shutdown following federal guidance. The department is committed to communicating quickly and clearly to everyone in North Carolina who will face impacts should a shutdown occur next week," Tonizzo said. For more information on WIC, visit ncdhhs.gov/ncwic/mywic. Social Security Administration Patti Patterson, regional communications director for the Social Security Administration, referred to the agency's 2024 fiscal year contingency plan in the event of a government shutdown. About 8,500 of the Social Security administrations nearly 62,000 employees would be furloughed in the event of a shutdown, according to the plan. Under the plan, agency services that would continue without interruption include processing of benefit applications, appeal requests and hearings, post-entitlement actions such as address changes and the issuing of new and replacement Social Security cards. A few services such as verification of benefits, or corrections and updates to earnings records would be temporarily suspended. "We will continue activities critical to our direct-service operations and those needed to ensure accurate and timely payment of benefits," the plan states. Activities not directly related to payment of benefits or critical for direct-service operations will be ceased. USA TODAY reports that according to the Bipartisan Policy Center, a nonprofit based in Washington, D.C., major programs and benefits such as Social Security and Medicare are generally unaffected by shutdowns because Congress has approved these programs to spend without an expiration date known as mandatory spending, which comprises about $7 of every $10 spent by the federal government. For more information on the Social Security Administration, visit https://www.ssa.gov or call 800-772-1213. U.S. Postal Service The U.S. Postal Service will not be interrupted in the event of a federal shutdown, according to Philip Bogenberger, a North Carolina-based spokesperson for the postal service. "All Post Offices will remain open for business as usual," he said in an emailed statement to the Citizen Times. "Because we are an independent entity that is generally funded through the sale of our products and services, and not by tax dollars, our services will not be impacted by a government shutdown." Members of Congress representing WNC Three members of Congress representing the region Republicans Rep. Chuck Edwards and Sens. Thom Tillis and Ted Budd gave mixed responses about the importance of avoiding a government shutdown, with Tillis and Edwards saying it must be avoided. Budd did not state his position on avoiding a government shutdown. Tillis explicitly came out against a shutdown as called for by ex-President Donald Trump if GOP hardliners don't get concessions, such as a closed border and voting restrictions. U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., attends a roundtable discussion on border policy at the Regional Center for Border Health in Somerton, Ariz., on Jan. 10, 2023. "We must avert a shutdown," Tillis said in a Sept. 27 statement. "That means a bill to fund the government needs to pass in both chambers with bipartisan support." He voted against a funding bill put forward by Democratic Senate Leader Chuck Schumer because of its lack of more border security additions, making it "dead on arrival," he said, in the House and guaranteeing a shutdown. "I will only vote for a bill viable in both chambers that will prevent a shutdown, which is why I would vote against the Schumer bill in its current form," the senior senator said. Edwards, whose 11th District covers most of WNC, said the need to curtail federal spending was "undisputed." "However, we should not hold hostage the services provided by our federal government, because the people in WNC would be adversely affected," he said. US Congressman Chuck Edwards. Despite the anticipation of a shutdown starting Oct. 1, Edwards said the recent debate has led to "monumental progress" and that he expected passage of 12 individual appropriations bills that included Social Security, Medicare and defense. The bills would would include cuts to spending, he said. On Ukraine aid, Edwards supported the hardliners' desire to cut a proposed $300 million. Russian President Vladimir Putin is a "ruthless, cruel dictator" who invaded a neighbor, bombed innocent women and children and must be stopped, he said. But he said the aid has been rubber-stamped and "duplicative" of billions of dollars already sent to Ukraine in recent months. While not stating his position on a government closure, Budd announced his co-sponsorship of a bill to fund military salaries if it happens. "Military servicemembers and their families shouldnt have to worry about putting food on the table in the event of a government shutdown," he said. Budd talked about contingency plans but did not state his opposition to a government closure in his latest statement, issued Sept. 27. Budd and the other officials did not answer if they were concerned about federal child nutrition programs or air traffic controllers. Medicaid expansion delay? Gov. Roy Cooper announced that Medicaid expansion will launch Dec. 1. North Carolina will become the 40th state in the nation to expand the state-run health insurance program for people with low incomes. Cooper signed the program into law March 27, but a provision in the bill kept the program from going into effect until elected officials in Raleigh passed the 2024 fiscal year budget, and the state's plan was approved by the federal government. Cooper allowed the budget to become law without his signature Sept. 22 after a drawn-out legislative fight. According to an Associated Press report, Cooper and North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kody Kinsley said they have spoken to federal officials, and a potential government shutdown in Washington should not delay implementation of expanded Medicaid. NCDHHS spokesperson Hannah Jones reiterated this in a Sept. 27 statement to the Citizen Times. Federal Courthouse and National Weather Service Essential services, such as the U.S. District Court of Western North Carolina and the National Weather Service, will continue operating even if a government shutdown happens. Clerk of Court Katie Simon confirmed with the Citizen Times Sept. 28 that a shutdown wont affect the federal court, located in downtown Asheville, or any of its employees. The work of the federal courts is essential to the administration of justice, Chief Judge Martin Reidinger said. Even if Congress shuts down some other portions of the government, the court does not shut down. Likewise, the day-to-day operational work of the NWS and its weather services offices will continue including forecasts, warnings and critical functions such as repairing radars on its regular schedule, according to spokesperson Sarah Teefey. Agriculture N.C. Cooperative Extension, a statewide agricultural research and resources program, would be affected as it works with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture. County Extension Director Stephen W. Duckett, who manages operations in Buncombe County, said in an email on Sept. 27 that the administration doesnt expect to see an immediate impact. However, a part of the staffs salaries is paid with federal funds allocated through North Carolina State University, so a long-term impact may be a furlough. Western North Carolina and other U.S. farmers would be impacted if USDA agencies like the Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service and U.S. Forest Service are forced to shut down as the agencies oversee crop insurance, disaster programs, cost share programs for soil and water conservation, and many other programs farmers depend on for day to day operations, he said. Farmers scheduled to receive federal payments in early October may see delays as those funds are put on hold, according to the agriculture publication Progressive Farmer. As with any shutdown, the longer it lasts the more severe the impacts on farmers and agribusiness, Duckett said. For more information, visit ces.ncsu.edu and fsa.usda.gov. Food banks MANNA FoodBank announced its plans to join Feeding America, Feeding the Carolinas, and thousands of food access partners across the country to call for Congress to avoid a shutdown by swiftly passing legislation to fund the government. MANNA stated in a news release that millions of federal workers, active-duty military members and federal contract employees would not receive partial or no paychecks, and the disruption of federal nutrition programs like SNAP and WIC would increase demand for on food banks across the U.S. if there were a government shutdown. According to MANNA, the food bank and its partners are in an ongoing food supply crisis. The regional organization served more than 167,000 people in WNC with emergency food support in August, which is reporter as 2.5 times more than pre-pandemic monthly averages in 2019. For more information, visit www.mannafoodbank.org/. Citizen Times reporters Mitch Black, Buncombe County reporter; Joel Burgess, investigations; Will Hofmann, growth and development; Sarah Honosky, Asheville City Government; Tiana Kennell, food and dining; McKenna Leavens, education; and Ryley Ober, public safety; and Hendersonville Times-News Editor Dean Hensley contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: How would federal government shutdown impact Asheville and WNC? New Jersey Congressman Andy Kim was taking his kids to their annual checkup on Friday when his phone went haywire. I was in the doctors office with them, they were running around and being absolutely crazy, but I could feel in my pocket my phone blowing up, just people calling and texting, he says. I looked at it, and the first thing I saw were the images of the gold bars. I was just trying to figure out what was happening. What was happening was a criminal indictment against one of Kims own senators, Bob Menendez , who has been in office since 2006. The New Jersey Democrat and his wife were charged with accepting hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes in exchange for the senators influence over both domestic and foreign issues. Those bribes included stacks of cash, solid bars of gold, and even a Mercedes-Benz convertible. It feels like it takes a lot in this moment, in this country, to shock you. Sometimes it feels like weve gotten numb to so much craziness in our politics but this one broke through, Kim says. He is my senator; he is the senator of my family, my kids. And so it just really hit me. Not just in terms of the politics and the newsworthiness, but on a personal level. Barely 24 hours later, Kim would make the most significant decision of his political career to date: He was going to run for U.S. Senate, against his own senator, from his own party. At 41 years old, Kim, the first Korean American Democrat ever elected to the House of Representatives, is serving his third term and had no immediate plans to change things up. Days before the surprise campaign announcement he gave an interview to the New Jersey Globe, where he emphasized his desire to continue working in the House, and his goals to expand into more rigorous policy work. Shortly after the news of the indictment broke on Friday, Kim became one of the first lawmakers to call for Menendez to resign. That would be it, he thought, but Menendezs adamant response later that afternoon that he would remain in office and was not going anywhere was Kims tipping point. It felt like he was saying to me, to others, to the people in New Jersey that I own this seat, this seat is mine. And that is just totally different than how I approach public service, Kim says. I just felt very frustrated and decided that his very quick and immediate and strong response to us required a quick and immediate and strong response back to him. Which is why I decided to step up to run against him the next day. Kim is not alone in demanding Menendezs resignation. As of Wednesday, at least 29 senators have issued statements calling for their colleague to step aside, along with several House Democrats, including Nancy Pelosi. A slew of New Jersey Democrats, including Gov. Phil Murphy and Reps. Mikie Sherrill, Frank Pallone Jr., Josh Gottheimer, and Bill Pascrell Jr., have said publicly that Menendez is too compromised to remain in office. Sen. Cory Booker also issued a lengthy statement breaking with Menendez, whom he had defended through previous accusations of corruption in 2015. I still believe he, like anyone involved with our criminal justice system, deserves our presumption of innocence until proven guilty, Booker wrote, adding that despite his belief that Menendez has a right to a fair trial. The details of the allegations against Senator Menendez are of such a nature that the faith and trust of New Jerseyans as well as those he must work with in order to be effective have been shaken to the core. Kim feels similarly. He absolutely has the right to due process, he says. But to be able to continue in a job that requires a public trust, thats not something that you have a right to. Thats not his seat. He doesnt own it. It belongs to the people, and a lot of people have questions. I have questions. I am a constituent of his, he is my senator, and I do not have confidence from what Ive seen that he can continue to do this job. The allegations against Menendez arent just about personal profiteering. They directly point to misconduct and abuse within one of the oldest and most powerful bodies in the Senate, the Foreign Relations Committee, which Menendez chaired before stepping down on Friday. Prosecutors allege that Menendez provided sensitive U.S. government information and [took] other steps that secretly aided the government of Egypt. The scheme was coordinated with the aid of his wife, Nadine, and Egyptian-American businessman Wael Hana, one of three indicted alongside the couple. Hana and Mrs. Menendez allegedly worked together to introduce Sen. Menendez to Egyptian intelligence and military officials. The Menendezes allegedly received cash and other benefits in exchange for information with respect to foreign military sales and foreign military financing. In at least one instance, Menendez is accused of using his position on the committee to help Hana secure favorable deals for his private businesses. This is about the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee potentially taking actions that would provide sensitive information to a foreign government. We need to make sure that we get to the bottom of the truth there, Kim says. Can [he do] his job in the Senate, when we have these questions, deep questions, about his actions, that affect not just him and New Jersey, but our country, our foreign policy, our national security? I dont see how we have that confidence right now. In Kims view, the charges against Menendez are not only serious enough to question his presence in Congress, but their litigation will keep the senator from fulfilling the demanding work of legislating. On Wednesday, Menendez was in Manhattan pleading not guilty to the charges. Im here, and others are here in D.C. right now, trying to avert a shutdown, Kim says. Thats the work of the job. But hes not here right now because hes got these legal matters, and it shows you [his] attention is focused beyond the job where it should be. And New Jerseyans, we deserve a senator that can focus on the job, do the work that is needed, and not [have it] take a back seat to his own legal challenges. Kim was the first person to declare an electoral challenge against Menendez, and with pressure for the senators resignation rapidly reaching a fever pitch, the fight to replace him will likely get messy. Rumors are swirling that Reps. Gottheimer and Sherrill, Democrat-turned-Republican Jeff Van Drew, and even New Jerseys first lady, Tammy Murphy, might throw their hats into the race. Should Menendez resign, Gov. Murphy would be tasked with appointing a replacement to serve through the end of the senators term, with the next election coming next year. We live in a time of the greatest amount of distrust in government in modern American History, Kim explains, so many people losing faith in elected officials, in the process, in the system, in the political parties. And I see that as this huge threat to our democracy. Kim hopes that New Jersey voters can see him in the same way he views himself, a public servant whos dedicated their entire career to building bridges and bettering lives; his electoral record doesnt hurt either. In 2020, Kim won his first reelection in a district that favored Trump, and outperformed President Joe Biden by eight points. He credits his victories to the community hes regularly in contact with. Ive won some of the toughest races, but Ive never lost a race, Kim said. I can win this; we need to make sure that this seat does not fall into the hands of the Republican Party. We know what they would do with the Senate majority Theres so much at stake here, and we have to make sure that we protect the seat. Kim knows he doesnt have a magic wand that can wave away the deep cracks in American politics, but he believes change starts with direct engagement with voters: I go out and engage. And thats the kind of stuff that makes governance accessible, and makes connections and shows respect for the voters, and thats why it is that Ive been so successful in these deeply conservative parts of the state. Kim has a long road ahead of him, and the first days of his campaign have been hectic, to say the least. He made the decision so quickly he didnt even let his mom and dad know until after announcing the campaign. Amid interviews, phone calls, and logistics, he says he only just found time to explain to his six- and eight-year-old children what he is trying to do, and how their family life might change. To Kim, the experience of serving in elected office has been above all humbling, but his gratitude is buttressed by a desire to bring politics back to the people whose lives are most affected. I believe that the opposite of democracy is apathy, he said. I hear that from some of my neighbors, their reaction to what they read about Sen. Menendez was just like, Thats Jersey politics. Thats just how things are. And I hate hearing that; it breaks my heart that our democracy has gotten to this place where we just accept things that should not be normal. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Click here to read the full article. Hard-wired into our national self-image is the concept of American exceptionalism, the notion that our country stands out for all the ages as the best hope for humanity, despite its original sin of slavery. Yet as a lifelong resident of New Jersey, the crossroads of the American Revolution, I have had to reconcile this idealized view with my decades of first-hand reporting on the systemic and endemic political corruption in my state, one of the original 13 colonies. New Jersey is truly exceptional, in a dystopian sense and no one personifies that better than Sen. Bob Menendez, who was indicted this week on federal charges of bribery and corruption. According to the U.S. Senate historian, only 13 sitting senators have ever been criminally indicted, out of more than 2,000 Americans who have served in what is sometimes called the "club of 100." Menendez now has a unique distinction: He's the only senator to be indicted twice. People in my state certainly remember the case of Sen. Harrison Williams, a four-term New Jersey Democrat convicted in 1981 on nine counts of bribery for his role in the Abscam scandal. The FBI snared Williams along with a half-dozen sitting members of the House of Representatives, one of them from New Jersey, and Camden Mayor Angelo Errichetti, an infamous South Jersey power broker. (That scandal was the basis for the 2013 film "American Hustle.") In 2009, federal prosecutors had to use school buses to round up the dozens of defendants in a "corruption and international money-laundering investigation stretching from the Jersey Shore to Brooklyn to Israel and Switzerland" that "culminated in charges against 44 people, including three New Jersey mayors, two state assemblymen and five rabbis," as the New York Times reported at the time. Perhaps an anthropologist would attribute this to the state's demographic status as the nation's most densely populated state, with 9.3 million people packed into a land area about one-fifth the size of Virginia and one-tenth the size of Minnesota, both of which have smaller total populations. A political scientist might blame it on New Jersey's bewildering welter of overlapping jurisdictions: We have 564 municipalities and close to 600 local school districts spread across 21 counties, along with thousands of independent government authorities and publicly owned utilities. Menendez continues to resist calls to resign, despite dozens of his Senate Democratic colleagues and New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, also a Democrat, asking him to do so. Menendez insists he will not surrender his seat until his case is resolved in court or until New Jersey voters reject him in next year's election as if holding high public office were a constitutional right or a question of personal liberty. "I firmly believe when all the facts are presented not only will I be exonerated but I will still be New Jersey's senior senator," Menendez told reporters at a Sept. 25 press gathering. "A cornerstone of the foundation of America's democracy and our justice system is the principle that all people are presumed innocent until proven guilty, all people. I ask for nothing more and expect nothing less." He formally pleaded not guilty in federal court on Wednesday At his press event, Menendez attempted to explain photographs presented by federal prosecutors showing vast quantities of cash discovered by FBI agents in his home as evidence of his eccentric but entirely legal habit of withdrawing money from the bank and stashing it around the house. "This may seem old-fashioned," he said, "but these were monies drawn from my personal savings account based on the income that I have lawfully derived over those 30 years," he said. During his Sept. 22 press conference, Damian Williams, the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, said prosecutors had DNA and fingerprint evidence linking the hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash found in Menendez's home to indicted co-conspirators. Menendez didn't offer any explanation for the bars of gold bullion also found in his home. An outside observer might conclude that, in the face of this overwhelming evidence, Menendez seems disconnected from reality. It's not that simple. His alleged misdeeds can be seen as an inevitable product of my state's political culture, which nurtured and reinforced the senator's worldview regarding power what it is, how to preserve it and what it's for. When we talk about the obscene concentration of wealth in the U.S., we can't lay all the blame on Wall Street: American politics are marinated and pickled in money. Menendez's previous indictment came in 2015, on federal charges stemming from his unsavory relationship with Salomon Melgen, a Florida doctor. The Justice Department alleged that between 2006 and 2013, Menendez had taken close to $1 million worth of "lavish gifts and campaign contributions from Melgen in exchange for using the power of his Senate office to influence the outcome of ongoing contractual and Medicare billing disputes worth tens of millions of dollars to Melgen and to support the visa applications of several of Melgen's girlfriends." During that trial, Sen. Cory Booker, New Jersey's other Democrat in the upper chamber of Congress, testified as a character witness for Menendez, as did Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, a Republican. This time around, Booker has called for Menendez to resign, while Republicans have largely stayed quiet. After the jury deadlocked and was unable to reach a verdict, federal prosecutors opted not to retry Menendez. Melgen, his friend, campaign donor and co-defendant, was convicted on charges of massive Medicare fraud. On the last day of Donald Trump's presidency, Melgen's sentence was commuted to time served and he was released from prison. Throughout Menendez's first indictment and prosecution, he had the kind of near-unanimous support from his fellow Democrats that Trump enjoys today from almost all Republicans. From 2008 to 2011, Menendez had served as chair of the Democratic Senate Campaign Committee, which is responsible for raising tens of millions of dollars from every commercial interest under the sun. Historically, senators from New Jersey have gravitated to that fundraising hot seat: Former Sens. Jon Corzine and Bob Torricelli both put in their time soliciting donations to help elect more Democrats. Perhaps the Soprano State's pay-to-play transactional ethos has a national or even global application. Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course. In April 2018, Menendez was "severely admonished" by the bipartisan Senate Select Committee on Ethics for taking and not disclosing "gifts of significant value from Dr. Melgen" while using his position "as a member of the Senate to advance Dr. Melgen's personal and business interests." Yet after Democrats regained the Senate majority in 2021, Menendez became chair of the Foreign Relations Committee, a post of enormous prestige and influence that according to the narrative put forward by federal prosecutors he wielded to maximum advantage. (Under Senate rules, he resigned that post this week.) Back in the parallel universe of New Jerseystan, Menendez's consolidation of political power continued, aided and abetted at the highest level of state government. In 2021, Gov. Murphy nominated Rob Menendez , the senator's son, as a commissioner of the powerful Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. The younger Menendez was also an attorney at Lowenstein Sandler, a top donor to his father's political action committee, according to OpenSecrets. Last year, Rob Menendez got the nod from New Jersey's political machine to run for the U.S. House seat that his father formerly held, before he was picked by newly-elected Gov. Jon Corzine in 2006 to fill Corzine's Senate seat. To be clear, both political parties in New Jersey and New York have historically used the Port Authority as a conveyor belt for spoils for deep-pockets donors. Almost 20 years ago, New Jersey Gov. Jim McGreevey installed real estate developer Charles Kushner yes, the father of Jared Kushner, as well as McGreevey's single biggest campaign donor onto the board of the bi-state agency that oversees the region's vast transportation infrastructure. Charles Kushner pled guilty in 2004 to 16 federal counts, including tax fraud, witness retaliation and making false statements to the Federal Election Commission. Trump later pardoned him. In the latest Menendez indictment, U.S. Attorney Williams alleges that between 2018 and 2022, Menendez and his wife, Nadine, "engaged in a corrupt relationship with ... three New Jersey businessmen who collectively paid hundreds of thousands of dollars of bribes, including cash, gold, a Mercedes Benz, and other things of value" in exchange for Menendez agreeing to "use his power and influence to protect and enrich those businessmen and to benefit the Government of Egypt." Specifically, Menendez is accused of providing Egyptian officials with non-public information about staff at the U.S. embassy in Cairo, as well as ghost-writing a letter on behalf of the Egyptian government aimed at persuading his Senate colleagues to release aid to that country. He also allegedly provided information about when, as Senate Foreign Relations chair, he would sign off on the release of $99 million in U.S. munitions to Egypt. Prosecutors also charge that Menendez illegally inserted himself into ongoing state and federal criminal investigations that had targeted his co-defendants and their associates. None of the names of law enforcement officials he allegedly tried to pressure are mentioned, although the filings claim those individuals "did not treat the case any differently as a result of Menendez's actions." According to the 39-page indictment, Menendez met with an unnamed "Candidate" under consideration as a potential U.S. attorney for New Jersey. He has been identified by reporters as attorney Philip Sellinger, a longtime partner at Greenberg Traurig. The purpose of that meeting, prosecutors allege, was to link Menendez's support for Sellinger's candidacy to the question of how Sellinger would handle a bank fraud case involving one of Menendez's co-defendants. Sellinger apparently told Menendez that due to previous work he had performed in private practice he would likely have to recuse himself from the bank fraud case. "Menendez subsequently informed [Sellinger] that he would not put forward [Sellinger's] name to the White House" as U.S. attorney, prosecutors claim, saying that he would recommend "a different individual for the position." The indictment further alleges that Menendez's next pick for the job became the subject of "critical" news reports, and that an unidentified intermediary then told Menendez that Sellinger would not have to recuse himself. Menendez advanced Sellinger's nomination, and he was confirmed by the Senate in December 2021. After Sellinger disclosed his previous link to the bank fraud case to his bosses at the DOJ, however, they determined that a recusal was in fact warranted. That didn't deter Menendez, prosecutors say, from persisting in trying to reach inside the U.S. attorney's office in Newark to make his influence felt. Williams' indictment maintains that federal prosecutors were insulated by their superiors from Menendez's efforts and "did not treat the case differently as a result of the above-described contacts." What could account for the immense hubris and entitlement of Menendez's alleged behavior? Perhaps answers can be discerned in what was left out of the indictment, namely Menendez's longtime relationship with Sellinger and his international law firm, Greenberg Traurig. In 2012, Sellinger persuaded then-Vice President Joe Biden to attend a fundraiser for Menendez at Sellinger's home that created so much disruption that local schools were forced to close early. In 2018, Herb Jackson of NewJersey.com reported that Greenberg Traurig had donated $62,500 of the $5.1 million defense fund Menendez amassed for his legal defense in the Melgen case. Is that evidence of corruption? Not in the legal sense of that word. It is evidence of how America's political economy works, and how closely members of the wealthiest classes in our nation are tied to each other. It's the invisible hand that wants to tip the scales of justice which sometimes becomes all too visible in New Jersey. FILE PHOTO: Lake Titicaca water level drops due to lack of rain in the entire altiplano, in Huarina FILE PHOTO: Lake Titicaca water level drops due to lack of rain in the entire altiplano, in Huarina LA PAZ (Reuters) - A prolonged drought in Bolivia and one of the hottest winters on record is threatening to leave parts of the South American country short of water, including in the high-altitude city of El Alto, some 4,000 meters above sea level. Climate change is affecting glaciers in the Bolivian Andes that provide fresh water to the surrounding wetlands, springs and dams, with residents of El Alto, perched above La Paz, now only able to access water at certain times of the day. Bertha Apaza, a local resident, said the extreme heat was a clear sign of shifting climates that had now forced the city to ration water use. "We have schedules to receive water, we don't have enough to cook or wash clothes, much less take a shower," she said. Bolivia has experienced some of the most extreme temperatures in August and September, which are usually temperate months. Neighboring Brazil, Paraguay and Peru have also experienced unusual late winter and early spring heat waves, with temperatures at all-time records in the Southern Hemisphere, including large parts of southeastern Australia. Some once fertile areas across the western region of Bolivia have been reduced to dust. Many of those living in El Alto, a city of around one million people, come from farming communities raising livestock and planting vegetables to survive. The dry spell has taken a heavy toll on Catalina Mancilla, who recently saw some of her farm animals die of thirst, before the local government set up a community water tank. "We can now drink water and my animals will also drink enough water," she said. Authorities remain confident that water reserves will last until December when the rainy season usually arrives, though hundreds of thousands of families and vast swathes of crop and cattle farmland has already been impacted. Members of the scientific community warn the situation could become critical with the El Nino weather pattern set to arrive in December, potentially altering the forecast and turning up the temperature. "We are facing a very, I don't want to use the word dangerous, but worrying situation," said Oscar Paz, an expert in climate change and professor at the Universidad Mayor de San Andres, adding the El Nino could last for two years. El Nino can prompt extreme weather events from wildfires to cyclones and droughts in some areas and more rainfall in others. (Reporting by Monica Machicao, Santiago Limachi, Sergio Limachi, Daniel Ramos; Writing by Lucinda Elliott; Editing by Josie Kao) A brand of bone broth sold at Costco retailers has been recalled due to possible microbial contamination, according to a letter recently provided to Costco members. The product, Culinary Treasures Organic Chicken Bone Broth, was sold by Costco between Sept. 8, 2022, and Sept. 22, 2023. The recall affects the individual 32-ounce cartons and multi-carton club packs, according to a recall notice issued by TreeHouse Foods, which produces the item. The product may have the potential for non-pathogenic microbial contamination, which may result in product bloating, shortened shelf-life and potential for early spoilage, the notice stated. Affected packages are printed the UPC numbers 67200055858 (carton) or 67200055865 (club pack). They also bear the lot code 98E08242 and a best-by date of Feb. 23, 2024. Costco says its 1-ounce gold bars are selling out fast Costcos recall webpage further indicates that the affected products were sold at select warehouses in Costcos southeast region. A representative for the company was not immediately available to confirm which warehouses, specifically. A representative for TreeHouse Foods was not available to provide further details when contacted at the number provided in the recall alert. No one had been sickened by the product as of Sept. 22, TreeHouse Foods said. Customers who purchased the recalled bone broth are being instructed to discard the products or return them to Costco for a full refund. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) gathered a host of experts and advocates Thursday to discuss the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) on civil rights. I love technology and innovation, Booker said at a panel discussion Thursday from the Capitol. But I also know that technology can elevate the power of discrimination. The panel discussed how mortgage lending algorithms have been more likely to deny home loans to people of color than to white people; how AI-enabled recruiting and hiring tools have been known to discriminate against women and minority candidates; and how automatic systems used in hospitals have repeatedly understated the needs of Black patients, exacerbating health care disparities. Panelists Thursday also pointed out instances in which AI has altered peoples looks, including lightening some skin tones, as well as some products like ChatGPT that have spewed stereotypes or even slurs. Equal opportunity and civil rights and racial justice are inextricably linked and impacted by todays and tomorrows technology, said Damon Hewitt, president and executive director of the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. Algorithms are used to make decisions about all aspects of our lives: Determining who gets bailed, who can rent a house and where we can go to school. Although these systems are so widely used, we know that they pose a high risk of discrimination, disproportionately harming the communities that we focus on at the Lawyers Committee and other civil rights organizations. Because algorithmic technologies are built using data that reflects generations of redlining, segregation and such, they often build on bad data, discriminatory data that is going to be likely to harm people. But the panel also discussed how AI can be used to counter these issues. Suresh Venkatasubramanian, director of the Center for Technological Responsibility, Reimagination, and Redesign at Brown University, highlighted that it is humans who choose how to build AI systems, and therefore humans who can choose how to eliminate racial biases in the construction. AI systems are very good at doing what we tell them to do, Venkatasubramanian said. This means that once youve trained a system to do what weve told it do, we have to test to make sure its doing what we wanted. The task of testing gets harder and harder as the system is getting more and more complicated or deep. We have to make sure the systems not doing anything harmful or discriminatory. We have to examine the data used to train the system. We have to examine the design choices used when building the system. And we have to make sure the system is deployed under the same conditions it was tested on. Theyre intelligent and conscious. They can learn things about the world that we cannot even comprehend. Others, like Fabian Rogers, a community advocate in New York, called for legislative protections over things like facial recognition software, which Rogers said can be deadly. The American Civil Liberties Union, which has also spoken out about such technology, previously highlighted that facial recognition could give anyone the power to track faces at protests, political rallies and places of worship. Advocates Wednesday called for the passage of an AI Bill of Rights. The White House has already released a five-point blueprint, which identified five principles that should guide the design, use and deployment of AI systems to protect Americans. The principles call for systems to be developed with consultation from diverse communities; for AI systems to be designed in an equitable way so as to limit artificial bias; for protections of data privacy; for ensuring users are properly informed if an AI system is being used and how it affects them; and for the right to to opt out of AI systems in favor of accessing a live person. Congress is now working to pass legislation on the matter. Earlier this month, Booker, Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.), introduced the Algorithmic Accountability Act of 2023. The bill would create new protections for people affected by AI systems that are already impacting areas like housing, credit and education. If you know there is implicit racial bias in systems, AI could actually be a tool to design a way to find them, to level the playing field, to expand the opportunity, Booker said Wednesday. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Booster segments arrive at Kennedy Space Center for NASAs SLS moon rocket NASAs next moon mission just took a big leap forward following the arrival of massive booster segments. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< The segments arrived at the Kennedy Space Center by train on Monday. NASA teams can now start stacking the giant SLS moon rocket inside the Vehicle Assembly Building. Read: Scattered showers, flood warnings and advisories expected in some local neighborhoods The rockets twin, solid-rocket boosters will help propel the Artemis II astronauts on a trip around the moon. This is the critical hardware, said Ken Kremer with Space UpClose. And the core stage is also getting ready to come here soon too. The Artemis II mission is scheduled to launch from Floridas Space Coast in November of next year. CLICK HERE to read the original article by WFTV. Read: Putnam community members rally in prayer for 16-year-old struck by lightning, in critical condition [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. SARAJEVO (Reuters) - Lawmakers in Bosnia's autonomous Serb Republic on Thursday passed a draft law that labels non-profit groups funded from abroad as "foreign agents", despite criticism from the opposition, civic organisations and Western diplomats. The legislation provides for establishing a special registry of non-profit organisations working in the region that are funded from abroad, where they would be enlisted as "agents of foreign influence", and requires transparency of their work. Civic organisations have said the bill was modelled on a 2012 Russian law that Moscow has used extensively to crack down on civil society and independent media. Serb Republic Justice Ministry Pero Bukejlovic said that without such legislation the region's legal system and constitutional structure would be undermined. The law was proposed by the ruling Alliance of Independent Social Democrats (SNSD) led by Bosnian Serb nationalist leader Milorad Dodik , which forms a parliament majority along with their coalition partners. It will be a subject of public discussion for 30 days before it comes into effect. Opposition MPs said the bill was anti-democratic and would push the country in an increasingly authoritarian direction. The European Union and the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) have urged the lawmakers to reject the bill, saying it aimed to "intimidate and suppress civil society organisations by branding their representatives as 'foreign agents'". Under the bill, the NGOs are banned from involving in any political activity, including proposing any kind of policy papers or legislation changes to institutions or political representatives. Pro-Russian Dodik dismissed the allegations that the law is modelled on Russia's legislation. He said the rules were based on the United States' Foreign Agents Registration Act, which primarily covers lobbyists working directly for foreign governments. The Serb Republic, which along with the Bosniak-Croat federation makes up Bosnia following its 1992-1995 war, passed a law in July that re-criminalised defamation despite protests by journalist associations and international criticism. Adopting this new draft law would bring the Serb Republic closer to authoritarian regimes than to the European democracies, the EU said, warning that it contradicts the region's commitments to advance European integration and priorities on civil society and media freedoms. (Reporting by Daria Sito-Sucic; Editing by Ros Russell) Two soldiers lower the Taiwan national flag at Liberty Square in Taipei on July 30, 2022. Credit - Chiang Ying-yingAP In January, Taiwan will hold a presidential election. Chinas leaders hope former New Taipei City mayor Hou Yu-ih, candidate of the Kuomintang opposition party will win the job, but the smart money is on current Vice President William Lai, who represents the incumbent Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Lai and his party favor a tougher approach to Beijing. If Lai wins, Beijing will become much more confrontational in the coming months. A Chinese invasion of Taiwan remains highly unlikely, but an expected deterioration in China-Taiwan relations is bad news for both sides, and for any forces caught between them. For now, Beijing is wielding both sticks and carrots to influence Taiwans voters. Earlier this month, Chinas navy conducted its largest-ever military exercises in the western Pacific, but China has also announced a plan to develop Chinas Fujian province into a demonstration zone for integrated economic development with Taiwan. Its a proposal that looks an awful lot like one recently floated by Hou that would connect Chinas Xiamen city (in Fujian) with Taiwans Kinmen islands. This good-cop-bad-cop strategy probably wont work. Recent polling suggests that about three-quarters of Taiwans 24 million people now consider themselves Taiwanese, rather than Chinese, whatever their family historya sharp jump over the past 10 years. Some of that trend is likely the natural product of generational change, as the percentage of island residents old enough to remember life on the mainland continues to fall. But Chinas crackdown on the democracy rights movement in Hong Kong in 2020 has played a role in that shift too. Meanwhile, Taiwans DPP leaders are looking beyond the election toward the more threatening approach from China. Their latest pushback comes in the form of a new defense report they hope will make China think harder about a future invasion. On September 12, Taiwans Ministry of National Defense released its National Defense Report 2023, which details the lessons Taiwan has learned from Russias war on Ukraine. In particular, the report calls for bolstering Taiwans asymmetric warfare capabilities, including the acquisition of mobile, cost-effective, portable, and AI-enabled weapons and equipment. In particular, the report cites Ukraines successful use of drone aircraft against Russian forces as evidence Taiwan should produce 7,700 military drones by 2028. China has also learned lessons from the war in Ukraine. Its leaders recognize that an enemy fighting for its land can make territorial gain prohibitively expensive for the invader, and that Western powers are more likely to align than to divide in the face of naked military aggression. It should also be clear for now that Beijing badly needs to focus its current attention and resources on domestic challengesa slumping economy, in particular. Over the longer-term, Chinas President Xi Jinping remains determined to reincorporate Taiwan into China by any means necessary, and hell respond forcefully to any moves he considers foreign interference in this mission. But Beijing also understands that Washington has domestic challenges too and will not welcome any pro-independence push by anyone in Taiwan for the foreseeable future. That gives Beijing time to wait for better conditions for decisive action against the islands autonomy. But there is still a rising risk of military accident that could provoke a sharp escalation in tensions. If Chinas military responds to a Lai victory in January by challenging Taiwanese defenses much closer to the islands shores, if it demands the right to inspect all Taiwan-bound shipping, or if its aircraft become more aggressive about challenging U.S. planes over the Taiwan Strait, Beijing and Washington could find themselves managing a crisis neither side really wants but cant avoid. These are the Taiwan risks most likely to develop sooner rather than later. Contact us at letters@time.com. Remember how the nations official poverty rate fell to its lowest point on record during the pandemic? Thats over. Let us recall for a moment the vast array of programs in the 2020 Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, better known as the CARES Act, and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. They tackled a wide range of socioeconomic aid. Suddenly, evictions were halted, and there was a lot more money available for almost everyones emergency needs, which included rental assistance, free school meals, food stamps, access to Medicaid and child care subsidies. Advertisement Also, unemployment benefits, stimulus checks and expanded child tax credit payments were sent out to help lift millions of Americans out of poverty. Suddenly, this country had a national safety net about as robust as, say, Sweden or France. Advertisement The benefits were enormous but, alas, temporary. The bonanza of anti-poverty bucks was not meant to last beyond the pandemic and it didnt. Neither did the record-low poverty rates for Black and Hispanic Americans, the U.S. Census Bureau reports. After that experience, what lessons have we learned about the never-ending challenge of raising poverty rates when there is not a national disaster like the pandemic facing us? What lessons can we draw from this in our long-running fight to end poverty? So far, to no ones surprise, almost everyone uses the experience to confirm whatever they felt all along. On the right, I have not been surprised to see conservatives, as always, opposed to throwing money at problems, no matter how tempting that may be, because sooner or later, the bills must be paid and thats never the fun part of giving. Conservatives, in my experience, point to the decline of two-parent families since the early 1960s and the rising percentage of Black families without fathers at home. Daniel Patrick Moynihan, while he was assistant secretary of labor under President Lyndon B. Johnson, spotlighted this social shift in 1965 with his influential study of Black family poverty. Since then, it has become politically correct on the left to blame systemic changes in the economy for disappearing jobs and other pressures on family life that hit Black families and communities particularly hard. In the Harlem neighborhood of New York, the city where Moynihan grew up, 85% of Black households had two parents. By the time Moynihans study came out, the out-of-wedlock birthrate had increased to 25%. That rate continued to rise to 68% by 1991. But, as some other studies have shown in recent years, if you are tallying by household income, the differences between the races shrink, to where upper-middle and upper-class household incomes and birthrates are close to the same across racial lines. In her new book The Two-Parent Privilege: How the decline in marriage has increased inequality and lowered social mobility, and what we can do about it, Melissa Kearney, a professor of economics at the University of Maryland, finds that a household that includes two married parents appears to be holding steady among upper-class adults. Even as it becomes increasingly rare among most everyone else. Advertisement Clarence Page Columns As it happens Sign up to receive Clarence Pages columns by email as soon as they're published. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy > Coming down somewhere in between the extremes on this touchy topic, Kearney views the family to be troubled, as an American institution, but finds marriage offers more solutions to the problems of family stability than many of us have recognized. For example, she counted herself as one of the social scientists who criticized the George W. Bush administrations Healthy Marriage Initiative, which at first seemed to her to be throwing money at the problem without increasing the marriage rate. But Ive softened my position, she recently told The 74, a magazine for educators, when the administration shifted its scope from trying to encourage marriages to trying to strengthen families. Thats an important goal because a lot of families really do face barriers to setting up a two-parent household and enjoying a healthy marriage between parents, and we need to meet those families where they are, she said. The government can support community programs that work with vulnerable or fragile families. Right. Marriage is only the most visible challenge facing the future of the Black family. To have fewer Black births outside wedlock, we should help strengthen Black families. cpage@chicagotribune.com Advertisement Twitter @cptime Last month, "girl math" went viral as women joked about justifying indulgent spending. Now, "boy math" has made its debut as a way to criticize embarrassing or gross male behavior. Boy math has gone so mainstream that at least one politician has contributed to the trend. First, there was "girl math": The humorous trend saw women justifying indulgent purchases by breaking the payment into fractions or saying an outfit was worth it because they'd wear it multiple times. It took off in August, and a hashtag for it has reached more than 490 million views on TikTok. Now, behold "boy math." Instead of finance or decadent spending, this craze is centered on joking about some of men's most ridiculous habits for example, the particular relatable and perennial problem of guys saying they're 6 feet tall when they're actually only 5'10. While some posts reference actual math, the overwhelming majority are a bit more abstract. Some internet users have pitted "boy math" and "girl math" against each other, and many say the women are winning. Boy-math scenarios date back to at least mid-August, the meme database KnowYourMeme says. But they didn't become that popular until this week when the trend exploded on X (formerly Twitter). Excited internet users have reshared the best examples on TikTok, and some creators have come up with their own. Some of the most popular boy-math hypotheticals call out hypocritical things a man might do, such as "being afraid of gold diggers when you only have 3 pairs of socks to your name," as one X post with over 80,000 likes said. "Boy math is when YOU cannot cook or clean but it's the women who refuse to do it for you who are 'lazy and dirty,'" another much-hearted post reads. There are also more meta boy-math posts that mock how the original girl-math trend was met with backlash and hijacked by some men online: "Boy math is claiming women aren't funny or creative but hopping on every fucking trend we do for ourselves and then whining when you don't get it," one X post said. While girl math was mostly lighthearted, with women teaching others the nonsense logic of the trend, boy math jokes have, in the last few days, taken on a more pointed tone. Some of the most popular posts reference controversial age gaps in relationships, including an X post with 40,000 likes that said, "Boy math is waiting until her 18th birthday, and thinking that doesn't make you a pedophile." "Boy math is being 6 times more likely to abandon their wives with terminal or chronic illness and then crying about male loneliness," another X post sais. The trend has gone so viral that at least one politician has entered the fray. "Boy math is needing 15 attempts to count the votes correctly to become Speaker and then shutting down the government 9 months later," Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez wrote in an X post, referencing the imminent government shutdown if representatives can't agree on a funding deal before Sunday. Some internet users who have been observing the boy-math trend are happy to report that the women are making funnier roasts. "The men on Twitter are literally getting cooked right now and I'm living for it," one TikToker said. "Ladies, keep fighting the good fight." Read the original article on Insider My boyfriend and I traveled to a remote Scottish island right before its off-season. We had an entire beach hotel to ourselves and were treated like VIPs. My partner and I traveled to Barra, a remote Scottish island with beautiful beaches. We spent two nights at a beachside hotel and on our second night we were the only guests. The experience shows that traveling right before the off-season has its benefits. When my partner and I travel together, we usually opt for city breaks. We've gotten accustomed to the buzz and commotion that come with long lines and crowded rooms. We never imagined that we would one day have an entire hotel to ourselves. Cut to earlier in September when we checked into the Isle of Barra Beach Hotel on Barra, a remote island in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. Barra is known for its wildlife and white sandy beaches which often lead visitors to draw comparisons to the Caribbean. It seemed like the perfect contrast to the sweltering, overcrowded cities we had grown accustomed to. We spent two nights at the hotel, which is located on Tangasdale beach on the west of the island. There were three other couples on the first night, but they all checked out the next day leaving us completely alone. Welcome to Barra, a remote Scottish island known for its natural beauty. A beach on the Isle of Barra in Scotland. Mikhaila Friel/Insider The Isle of Barra is a remote island in Scotland's Outer Hebrides which is accessible via ferry from Oban, which takes just under five hours, or by plane which takes just over one hour from Glasgow Airport. The island is most known for its white sandy beaches, which are often compared to the Caribbean. During our visit, I heard fellow visitors refer to the island as "Barabados," an affectionate nickname said to be widely used by locals, according to the Daily Mail. My partner and I traveled via plane and stayed at the Isle of Barra Beach Hotel. Our sea-view room cost 350, or around $426, for two nights. We stayed at the Isle of Barra Beach Hotel right before the island's off-season for two nights. The exterior of the Isle of Barra Beach Hotel. Mikhaila Friel/Insider We had initially planned to visit the island in July, but ended up pushing the trip to September because of work. However, we didn't consider that our trip fell right before the island's off-season. A hotel employee informed us we were the final guests before the hotel closed for the winter. She added that some of the restaurants in the area were also due to close a couple of days after our trip because soon there wouldn't be many tourists. She said the best time to visit is May, as there is a higher chance of sunlight and less chance of rain. We checked in at the same time as two other couples. The empty restaurant at the Isle of Barra Beach Hotel. Mikhaila Friel/Insider We checked into the hotel on a Friday afternoon along with two other couples who had been on the same flight from Glasgow. After checking in, we had a cup of tea at the hotel's restaurant, which looked out to the sea. My partner and I were the only people around as the other couples had already gone out to explore the beach and the hotel grounds. I felt lucky that we got to enjoy the vast, open sea views privately. The staff made us sandwiches, even though the restaurant doesn't have a lunch menu. The kitchen made us a selection of sandwiches after we checked in. Mikhaila Friel/Insider When booking the hotel, we were told in the confirmation email that its restaurant serves a breakfast buffet, which is included in the price of the room. The email said that a two-course dinner can also be requested in advance for a set price of 30, or around $36, per person. The dinner, which includes soup and a variety of mixed salad options, is made using local ingredients from throughout the Hebrides and served with a glass of wine, the email added. We didn't have dinner at the hotel because we already had a couple of restaurants in mind that we wanted to try. Despite not having a lunch menu, the staff brought out sandwiches and potato chips shortly after we checked in because my partner mentioned we didn't have a chance to grab lunch. It was a lovely gesture and something I couldn't imagine happening at a major chain hotel in a city. Our sea-view room had a double bed, a table with tea and coffee facilities, and two chairs (not pictured). Our room in the Isle of Barra Beach Hotel. Mikhaila Friel/Insider The decor was simple; the walls were painted white and there was a beach print on the wall. There were gray curtains to match the bedspread and a bright blue carpet. Instead of a closet, there was a rail with clothes hangers. Our bed and clothes rail. Mikhaila Friel/Insider The clothes rail added to the room's minimalist aesthetic. I've stayed at more lavish hotels in the past, but I didn't mind the lack of luxury since the room was spacious and comfortable. The best thing about the room was the view. The view from our room. Mikhaila Friel/Insider All of the rooms in the hotel look directly onto the beach. The view looked like a real-life painting. We spotted dolphins swimming in the sea. We spotted a dolphin. Mikhaila Friel/Insider Whales, dolphins, and seals are common in the Outer Hebrides. We spotted several dolphins from our window, and a staff member later told us that some of the hotel's previous guests had gone swimming with the dolphins. The bathroom was also sparse, with a standard bath and a shower. The bathroom. Mikhaila Friel/Insider There was also a basket of towels with a sign stating that the hotel would only provide new towels upon request for sustainability reasons. The next morning, we had breakfast at the buffet. The author's partner at the breakfast buffet. Mikhaila Friel/Insider The breakfast buffet had a selection of muesli, cereals, oatmeal, sliced bread, jams, and yogurt. I opted for oatmeal with honey and banana, while my partner enjoyed cereal and toast. We were joined in the restaurant by three couples, who all checked out of the hotel later that afternoon. When the other guests checked out, we had the hotel to ourselves for 24 hours. The lounge and bar area. Mikhaila Friel/Insider We spent most of the day exploring the island. We returned to an empty hotel, and the staff kindly remarked that we were "part of the family" seeing as we were the only guests. My partner and I spent the evening in the lounge and bar area, which was especially cozy as some of the couches had blankets on them for guests. As we were served drinks, I couldn't help but notice how kind and personable the staff were as they chatted with us. They asked questions about our home in Glasgow and seemed genuinely happy to share anecdotes about their own lives. I'm not sure if we would have had the same bond with them if there had been other guests around. The next morning, we arrived to an empty restaurant for breakfast. The empty breakfast restaurant. Mikhaila Friel/Insider It was our last breakfast at the hotel before we were due to fly back to Glasgow that afternoon. The hotel was still empty, and an employee informed us we were the last guests before it closed for the off-season. Instead of the usual buffet, breakfast was served at our table by the window. Breakfast for two. Mikhaila Friel/Insider On our first morning at the hotel, a buffet was spread out on a couple of large tables at the front of the room for all guests to enjoy. But because there was only my partner and I on the second morning, the staff made a breakfast spread on our table which included fresh fruit, cereal, toast, oatmeal, and tea and coffee. Our server was fantastic and took the opportunity to chat to us about her family and her experience living in Barra. She said she had lived on the island for 17 years and that many people come to Barra for "healing" purposes. The customer service was excellent, as she regularly asked us if we required any more food, and even gave us some fruit to take in our bags to the airport. The experience taught me that traveling before or during the off-season can be rewarding. The view from the restaurant. Mikhaila Friel/Insider As Insider previously reported, traveling during the off-season has its downsides. Local businesses and restaurants may be temporarily closed, and the weather will likely be less than desirable. But luckily for us, we found a sweet spot to travel right before any of these things happened. We managed to avoid the disadvantages while reaping the benefit of being the only guests at the beach hotel. We were treated like VIPs, and more importantly, we were able to build real connections with the staff working at the hotel. It was an experience I won't forget anytime soon. Read the original article on Insider A 37-year-old Bradenton man was arrested Thursday on charges that he secretly captured inappropriate pictures and videos of family and friends, the Bradenton Police Department said in a news release. Police say Thomas William Cauley used a portable, streaming hidden camera to record people, including minors, in the bathrooms of several locations, including the homes of family and friends. Detectives began investigating Cauley on Sept. 22 after a relative reported finding the content in a Dropbox on an electronic device, the release said. Cauley was charged with video voyeurism, according to the Manatee County Sheriffs Office website. Video voyeurism is a third-degree felony punishable by up to five years in prison, five years of probation and a $5,000 fine, according to Florida Statutes. It could also result in sex offender registration. Police say they obtained a search warrant and seized his electronic equipment so that it can be forensically analyzed to determine if there are additional victims. Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact the Bradenton Police Department at 941-932-9300. To remain anonymous and eligible for a cash reward of up to $3,000, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-8477 or submit a tip at manateecrimestoppers.com. (Bloomberg) -- Brazils Senate approved legislation to limit the creation of new Indigenous territories, overriding a recent Supreme Court ruling and potentially dealing a major blow to President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silvas efforts to protect tribal lands. Most Read from Bloomberg Lawmakers voted 43-21 to pass the bill Wednesday, a week after the top court overwhelmingly rejected the so-called Marco Temporal theory, an interpretation of Brazils constitution that would allow tribes to claim only the lands they were occupying or legally disputing on Oct. 5, 1988 the day the governing document was ratified. The lower house approved the legislation to codify Marco Temporal into law in May, as part of a broader push against Lulas attempts to ramp up protections for the environment and tribal territories. Senate leaders let the bill linger while the court case unfolded, but picked it back up after the ruling drew backlash from conservative lawmakers. The leftist president, who during last years campaign pledged to demarcate new tribal lands across Brazil, can still veto the bill. But lawmakers can also override that veto with a majority in each chamber. Read More: Brazil Court Upholds Tribal Land Protections in Win for Lula The back-and-forth is part of a brewing dispute between Brazils top court and factions of lawmakers who saw the Marco Temporal ruling as another judicial overstep on matters they say should be left to the legislature. Earlier on Wednesday, a group of opposition lawmakers announced a legislative filibuster and said they would push for the creation of a committee to discuss new legislation allowing congress to annul court decisions. Each branch of power must be restricted to its role, congressman Altineu Cortes said as he announced the filibuster. We want understanding and respect, nothing more. Senate President Rodrigo Pacheco said the approval of the legislation isnt about a confrontation with the top court. We believe that issues of this nature should be deliberated by the congress, he told reporters. But the tension may only increase if the legislation is enacted, an outcome that could lead Indigenous leaders, human rights groups or lawmakers who oppose Marco Temporal to launch a new challenge in the court. Brazils agribusiness sector, which holds significant influence in the countrys conservative congress, and other industries have supported the effort to make Marco Temporal the law. Tribal leaders, by contrast, argue that it would drastically curb their ability to reclaim traditional lands, while also increasing threats to their communities and the environment from increased mining, farming and logging. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. SAO PAULO The Brazilian government has launched a fund dedicated to Army capabilities, including the acquisition and development of armored vehicles from Italian manufacturer Iveco Defence, the Astros missile system from Avibras and more. The plan is part of the Growth Acceleration Program, or PAC, announced by the government in August. The effort is set to spend about 53 billion reals (U.S. $11 billion) on defense. Some of that money will go toward an armored forces strategic program, the Army told Defense News. This program has a profound impact not only on the modernization of military capabilities but also on the development of critical technologies, the Army said in a Sept. 20 statement. The focus on armored vehicles will see various types manufactured by the Iveco, which opened a local factory 10 years ago as part of its work with the Army, the service explained. Types include six-wheel drive Guarani armored vehicles, four-wheel drive multitask Guaicuru armored vehicles, eight-wheel drive Centauro combat vehicles, six-wheel drive Cascavel medium reconnaissance vehicles, and modernized Leopard 1 tanks made by Krauss-Maffei Wegmann. The tank modernization effort was previously postponed due to high demand for armored vehicle parts in the international market, the military reported Sept. 17. The Astros missile system is part of an overall effort to contribute to the organization of missile and rocket artillery, enabling long-range and high-precision strategic fire support, the Army said. Earlier this year, Avibras unveiled new variants of the weapon: the Astros II MK6 and the Astros III. The former has a maximum range of 300 kilometers (186 miles). The latter, which has greater firepower, is designed to operate from an eight-wheel drive vehicle and can launch ballistic rockets, guided rockets, ballistic missiles and tactical cruise missiles, according to the company. Another part of the investments is directed toward the Armys aircraft and drones. The military reported aircraft acquisition efforts include maneuver helicopters used to transport troops and equipment. According to the armed forces, these helicopters would weigh more than 7.5 tons and could contribute to civilian missions, such as national emergencies. According to the government, the PAC investment effort is funding the modernization of six HM-1A Pantera helicopters, manufactured by Brazilian firm Helibras, a subsidiary of the French company Airbus Helicopters. The company this year delivered the first modernized unit. The plan also includes the acquisition of ten general-purpose helicopters, the military announced, without providing further details. However, the force has an aviation battalion composed of Helibras-made Caracal helicopters, which are known as HM-4 Jaguars within the Army. They were made under Brazils H-XBR project, which involves all three armed forces and continues to provide aircraft for the military. Another part of the project involves the purchase of nine drones. According to the Army, which did not identify the manufacturers involved, these unmanned aircraft will belong to categories 0 through 2, which vary in terms of operating altitude and range. Category 0 corresponds to drones weighing up to 2 kilograms (4 pounds). Category 1 ranges from 2 kilograms to 150 kilograms, and the third category ranges from 150 kilograms to 600 kilograms. Brian Austin Green has been speaking quite a bit lately about his co-parenting relationship with ex-wife Megan Fox. The two share three sons: Journey, 7, Bodhi, 9, and Noah, 11. On a recent episode of the podcast he co-hosts with his fiancee Sharna Burgess and Randy Spelling, Green spoke of the positive relationship that he and Fox share, saying: When we need to, we communicate really well, we are open to things, we dont take things personally. It is my goal, and I think its her goal as well, that the kids are in as healthy [of an] environment as they can be in. While his comments were complimentary, Green apparently had second thoughts about having spoken so publicly about their relationship after the podcast aired. Admitting that he didnt check in with Fox (or ex Vanessa Marcil, with whom he shares son Kassius, 21) before recording the podcast, he told Page Six, No, no. I reached out to [Megan] afterwards ... I said to her in a text, I just said, Hey, just to let you know, I discussed our co-parenting in our podcast. Im sorry if you didnt want that. The following week, Green was at it again on another podcast (Whine Down With Jenna Kramer), characterizing himself, Fox and Burgess as one big family, and describing how Fox will enter their home when she is picking up the kids and hang out for a while, even holding Burgess and Greens new baby, Zane, who is 14 months. But even when speaking in such glowing terms, a co-parenting relationship with an ex is a sensitive subject one that left Green wondering if he shouldve cleared it beforehand with Fox. In the delicate ecosystem of a co-parenting arrangement, any time a boundary is crossed or an agreement isnt upheld, it threatens the harmony, which, in turn, impacts all the children involved. Think twice about your audience before speaking about your ex. While most of us dont need to check that its OK for us to say nice things about our relationships with other people, caution is warranted when the person in question is an ex and a co-parent. This caution needs to be amplified for anyone living in the public eye. They are famous. This means they play by different rules, especially when talking to the media. His apology was in good faith and he and Megan should proactively talk about how they want to respond to questions related to their co-parenting. That way no one is caught off guard or overstepping the other parents comfort level, Erin Pash, a marriage and family therapist and founder of Ellie Mental Health, told HuffPost. For the rest of us, Pash continued, its ok for co-parents to share their story. In other words, you dont need to check in with your ex before talking about your co-parenting relationship among friends or family members, but should let them know before speaking to the media. The fact that he apologized was appropriate, but he probably should have reached out to Megan before he did the podcast, cleared it with her and maybe invited her to join the podcast and give her point of view, said Dina de Giorgio, a divorce and family lawyer in New York. Effective co-parenting requires trust, and that probably means not talking to reporters about each other, even if it was a positive comment, she said. Kelsey Queen, a family law attorney at Sodoma Law in North Carolina, said its important that both parents feel like they have an equal voice when it comes to decision-making. Brian Austin Green spoke for Megan Fox and shared an opinion about the structure of the childrens familial unit without allowing her the opportunity to voice her opinion of whether the childrens interests would be best promoted by doing so, Queen told HuffPost. Theres one audience you should always consider first. Most of us dont need to worry about talking to Page Six or doing podcast interviews, but youll want to apply a heavy layer of caution to anything you say regarding your ex in front of your child. Children are taught from a young age that their own identities, personalities, and character traits are a mix of each of their parents. As a general rule, parents should protect the positive opinions their children have developed of parents, knowing those opinions reflect directly on a childs opinion of their own self-worth, Queen said. But dont make the mistake of avoiding your ex. You need to be in regular communication with them in order to care for your child. Co-parents should talk regularly. In fact, the more kids they share, the more they should talk and not just about their kids, said Pash. If co-parents are talking regularly, they can have conversations about their boundaries or things they are uncomfortable with and work to find solutions. Boundaries that are not created collaboratively are usually going to cause stress and tension in a relationship. If regular, healthy communication is part of your relationship with your ex, you have a strong foundation to work from when issues do arise. Is one big happy family the goal? The scene that Green described, with his ex-wife holding the baby he had with his new partner, sounds ideal though it may not be feasible for every family, and of course doesnt apply to situations involving domestic violence or other safety concerns. But, as much as possible, such an arrangement usually does serve the best interests of the children. The better the relationship between the [parent and new partner], the better it is for the children, Charlotte Christian, a divorce lawyer in Alabama, told HuffPost. This may require a bit of fake-it-till-you-make-it, but its worth it for all the kids involved. You have to overcome the issues of not wanting to be in the ex-spouses house or doing joint events. This is also the childrens home and their events, Christian said. If theres an event that you really cant bring yourself to do, just say you are not able to make it, do not involve the children in the why, she advised. In situations where there is conflict among the adults, they should try to keep children out of it. If parents absolutely cannot get along, its very important that kids dont get put in the middle of the conflict, said Pash. When the interests of the children are centered, adults should be able to come together to talk about things like schedules, rules and boundaries. Your arrangement doesnt have to fit an ideal image, but it does need to work for everyone involved. Every co-parenting relationship differs, so there isnt a one size fits all approach to structuring relationships with new partners and co-parents. Each parent should vulnerably listen to and openly communicate about the boundaries that will need to be enforced to allow all parties to feel respected and remain focused on the children, Queen said. Related... The bride and groom of a wedding celebration in Iraq where a devastating fire killed around 100 people have joined crowds of mourners remembering the victims. The newlywed pair, named locally as Haneen and Revan, were initially thought to have died in the inferno at the banqueting hall in the Christian town of Qaraqosh, in Nineveh province, on Tuesday night - but survived after reportedly escaping through a kitchen door. On Thursday, video emerged on social media purportedly showing them with grieving families remembering the victims, despite them having been treated in hospital following the fire. The footage appeared to show the groom sobbing with a man holding him up from behind. The bride and groom were said to be among the mourners who gathered after a fire at their wedding celebration killed more than 100 people (AFP/Getty/NinveErmagan) Bizhar Zubair, news editor at Kurdish news outlet Rudaw, wrote on X: Grooms first appearance after his heartfelt attempt to start a new family took a tragic turn at his wedding as a devastating fire in the wedding party hall left numerous families shattered. Middle East author Ninve Ermagan also wrote on the platform: You can see the pain of the bride and groom - it is a tragedy for the already disadvantaged Assyrian Christian minority. On Thursday two more burn victims - a 30-year-old woman and a four-year-old child - died from their injuries. Dozens more people, including children, are being treated for severe burns. Survivors say the fire started when fireworks hit the roof during the ceremonial slow dance. It is a tragedy which has plunged the northern town into mourning with grieving families continuing funeral processions at the Saint Behnam Syriac Catholic Church on Thursday. The huge gathering followed a ceremony at The Cemetery of the Resurrection on Wednesday. At a packed memorial service inside Al-Tahira Church on Wednesday, a priest told mourners: Nothing is up to standard in this country.....we have to hold those who are responsible accountable. Enough, enough. The Civil Defence Directorate, speaking to Iraqi News Agency, said the banqueting hall was covered with highly flammable metal composite panels, which was in violation of safety regulations. The directorate said: The fire led to the collapse of parts of the hall as a result of the use of highly flammable, low-cost building materials that collapse within minutes when the fire breaks out. Crowds gather to remember those who died in the wedding hall fire (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) Officials have so far arrested 10 of the venues staff, its owner and three people involved with the fireworks, as they promise a quick investigation into what happened. A government spokesperson said the authorities will also conduct strict inspections of hotels, schools, restaurants and event venues to make sure they are complying with safety standards. One owner of the venue, Chonny Suleiman Naboo, told The Associated Press that an electrical fault caused the fire and denied that they had neglected safety procedures. The events unfolded as, on Thursday, Iraqs prime minsiter Mohammed Shia al-Sudani arrived in the region to meet with the wounded and family members of victims at Hamdaniyah Hospital and Al-Jumhoori Hospital. He also visited the Syriac Catholic Mar Behnam Monastery to express his condolences to victims. Galion Community Theatre host site for film festival GALION Film lovers in Galion will join over 100,000 film enthusiasts around the world Sept. 28 to Oct. 8 when the 26th annual Manhattan Short Film Festival screens at Galion Community Theatre at 2 p.m. Sunday and 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 7. Tickets are $10 and will be available at the door or at galiontheatre.org. The Manhattan Short Film Festival will be screened at Galion Community Theatre on Oct. 1 and Oct. 7. The final 10 films will be shown simultaneously on screens across the world during a one-week period, with the Best Film and Best Actor awards determined by ballots cast by the audiences in each participating venue. By virtue of their selection by Manhattan Short, each short film is automatically Oscar-qualified. The 10 finalists hail from seven countries with films from Australia, Afghanistan, Finland, Iran, Switzerland, UK and Canada alongside three films from the USA. They represent the best short films from among 850 submissions from 72 countries. Haring Realty welcomes two new agents MANSFIELD Dan Wirebaugh was born and raised in Crawford County and worked at the former Swan Hose for 28 years as a maintenance manager. He lives in Bucyrus with his wife, Barbara, owner of Affinity HealthWorks. Wirebaugh studied mechanical engineering at North Central State College and Marion Technical College. He also earned a real estate license from The Ohio State University and Davis College, first in 1998 and again in 2023. Dan Wirebaugh Wirebaugh has served on the board of directors of the Swan Rubber Credit Union, now Firelands Federal Credit Union, Crawford County Health District Board, Joint Central Ambulance District Board, and Crawford Park District Board. Also joining Haring Realty is Ashland native Melanie Coble. Born and raised in Ashland County outside of Mifflin, Coble is a graduate of Hillsdale High School and has a business degree from Kent State University. She and her family lived in California and Tennessee before returning to Ohio in 2018. Ohio organizations form alliance to address mental health in agriculture REYNOLDSBURG A newly created alliance will focus on mental health in agriculture to ensure Ohios farmers, families, and communities are better equipped to deal with stress. The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA), Ohio Department of Health (ODH), Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS), The Ohio State University (OSU), Ohio Farm Bureau (OFB), Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation, and Farm Credit Mid-America make up the new Ohio Agricultural Mental Health Alliance (OAMHA). The groups first action is introducing a new, anonymous survey to seek feedback directly from rural communities. The survey aims to gauge stress and how its being dealt with. OAMHA will use survey results to determine where resources are needed and help ensure support is available to communities in need. Upcoming meetings: Wynford Local Professional Development Committee, 3:45 p.m., Monday, Wynford High School, 3288 Holmes Center Road, Bucyrus Wynford Local Board of Education (work session), 5 p.m., Monday, conference room, Wynford High School, 3288 Holmes Center Road, Bucyrus Bucyrus Telegraph-Forum This article originally appeared on Bucyrus Telegraph-Forum: GCT part of film festival, Haring Realty agents, agriculture survey Richland County Foundation Connections Fund to host grant event The Connections Fund of the Richland County Foundation will host a brunch to announce this years grant award. The event will be held from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Oct. 11 in the Carriage House at Kingwood Center. Tickets are free, but you must reserve one by Oct. 1 on the Richland County Foundation website. During the event, Connections Fund Advisory Committee Chairwoman Cassie Brumfield will discuss the funds redefined mission and the volunteer focus for 2024. The Connections Fund was established in 2004 and has granted close to $120,000 in the community. Galion Community Theatre host site for film festival GALION Film lovers in Galion will join over 100,000 film enthusiasts around the world Sept. 28 to Oct. 8 when the 26th annual Manhattan Short Film Festival screens at Galion Community Theatre at 2 p.m. Sunday and 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 7. Tickets are $10 and will be available at the door or at galiontheatre.org. The Manhattan Short Film Festival will be screened at Galion Community Theatre on Oct. 1 and Oct. 7. The final 10 films will be shown simultaneously on screens across the world during a one-week period, with the Best Film and Best Actor awards determined by ballots cast by the audiences in each participating venue. By virtue of their selection by Manhattan Short, each short film is automatically Oscar-qualified. The 10 finalists hail from seven countries with films from Australia, Afghanistan, Finland, Iran, Switzerland, UK and Canada alongside three films from the USA. They represent the best short films from among 850 submissions from 72 countries. Portion of Mansfield street closed Ruth Avenue from Wood Street to East Townview Circle in Mansfield is closed for water main work. It's expected to reopen by Oct. 5. Traffic is advised to plan an alternative route to avoid delays. Mansfield News Journal This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Connections Fund brunch, film festival, Mansfield street closing Filmmaker Ariella Khan, left, watches as a memory stick containing her short film burns after it was screened in front of an audience for the "Destroy Your Art" event at Music Box Theatre on Sept. 26, 2023, in Chicago. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune) On Tuesday night, at the Music Box Theatre in Lakeview, a most alarming affair unfolded in front of a near-full house of movie lovers: Local filmmakers, Chicago directors, each of some distinction, discussed the films they just completed, then, one by one, they destroyed those films. They showed the works first. Theyre not nuts. But if you were not in that audience on Tuesday night to see those works, unless someone was shooting the big screen with a phone a fair possibility you are fresh out of luck. Poof. Advertisement Or rather, swoosh, sizzle, crackle, poof. Gone forever. The method of destruction was blowtorch. Destroy Your Art, the title given this extreme annual celebration of the impermanence of art and the fickleness of audience memory, was created in 2017 by Rebecca Fons, director of programming at the Gene Siskel Film Center, and Jack Newell, her husband, a filmmaker himself. That first year, the films shot on SD memory cards, and not pricier, combustive celluloid were ground up inside a shredder, but for an audience, it proved anticlimactic. They switched to crushing films in a vise, except not every director is strong enough for that. They considered acid and liquid nitrogen. But they wanted to make sure when a film was destroyed, it was gone. So, blowtorches. Advertisement As the audience filed in, filmmaker Blair St. George Wright, a Chicago artist and projectionist (who uses they pronouns), sat in their seat, wearing a pink bucket hat, looking at peace with what was about to happen. A friend tapped their left shoulder: How you feeling? Wright nodded. A few seats behind them a couple of women settled into their seats and noted several blowtorches and a black welding helmet waiting on a table in front of the stage. One of the women said she was surprised to see it, and also kind of relieved: I was wondering, what are they going to do? Screen the film, then drag and drop a file, erase thats it? Oh, no, no. Fons climbed on stage and noted that the first couple rows of seats were strangely empty: If anyone wants to come up front here ... All the better to witness the burning ... She called on the first director, Ariella Khan, a recent Northwestern University film graduate whose work often deals with her Pakistani American roots. She explained she is a coming-of-age, dramedy kind of person, and this was a switch, a horror short. I am excited to see it, and I am excited to burn it, she said. And it was impressive, patient, controlled, vaguely John Carpenter-esque, more mood than narrative, shot late at night at a Libertyville gas station, with actors, a crew of a half dozen, even a few special effects. It was a slow burn Dont destroy it, someone shouted after then a real burn. An audience watches filmmaker Michael Glover Smith's short film before it is destroyed during the "Destroy Your Art" event at Music Box Theatre on Sept. 26, 2023, in Chicago. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune) Khan worked the blowtorch around the memory card as if it were a marshmallow. And the card, dangling down from a long metal arm, burst into bright orange streaks and the audience whooped. OK, whenever you want to stop ... Newell said jokingly from the wings. Khan clicked off the torch. I didnt know Id be sad, she said, staring at two smoldering weeks of work. (After the screening, Khan said she spent around $500 on her film: I dont want to add it up.) The point of Destroy Your Art, Fons said earlier in the day, was not to make anyone question the quality of their films or feel nihilistic about the vulnerable state of film itself, but to get them thinking about the perishable nature of art and how people consume it. Advertisement In other words, as the great sage Barbie said this last summer, does anyone ever think about death? Moreover, does anyone ever think about what lasts and how little other than Shakespeare and Barbie actually does? I am a film exhibitor and my husband is a filmmaker, Fons said, and I talk a lot about film in terms of booking films, how much a movie will make, and for Jack, its a lot of When are you shooting? or What are you working on? Its not a lot of art, its a lot of business. So we wanted an antidote, to encourage people on both sides artists and audiences to see something singular. We constantly discuss the life span of films, but maybe knowing a film will be gone unlocks a part of a filmmakers brain that lets go? That doesnt need to be precious about everything? And if a film is impermanent, does that change how an audience sees it? You know people who pull out their phones the moment a movie starts? What are they doing? What if they had to pay attention? What if once a film screened, thats it? If the films on your Netflix watchlist were vanishing forever, youd have a shorter list. Filmmaker Ines Sommer uses a blowtorch to burn a memory stick containing her short film after it was screened in front of an audience for the "Destroy Your Art" event at Music Box Theatre on Sept. 26, 2023, in Chicago. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune) Likewise, if filmmakers knew their work disappeared after one showing, if there was no going back to tweak or retool, they might take more chances. At least, Fons said, thats what she and Newell have seen from filmmakers who take part in Destroy Your Art. The quality, she said, rarely looks rushed, and new muscles get flexed. A filmmaker of dramas might try a comedy. Once, a local director who participated asked a few friends to tell secrets for a film, understanding the secrets would be erased, along with the film. Fons and Newell got four filmmakers to destroy work this year. Michael Glover Smith, a local filmmaker who teaches at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, ditched his deliberative style for a one-minute animated laugh. Ines Sommer, who teaches film at Northwestern, eschewed her usual social issues for a lovely documentary on summer. Anyway, all that work gone now. When Fons and Newell ask filmmakers to shoot something to destroy, they give a single directive: Make it five minutes or less. They provide the memory cards. But nothing else. They get a range of responses: Some say, No, you have to pay me and I wont destroy my work, but then some, you get a (expletive) yes! They want the experience. Advertisement Smith introduced his film with a beer in his hand and a smile and said he approached the work as a kind of Buddhist exercise in letting go of material things. He teaches film history and in the back of my mind, I hope my work will live on, but if Im realistic, it probably wont. Blair St. George Wright made a visual poem about nature and the soul, using an anecdote from their life, repeated by friends in a variety of languages; because they sent specific parts of the anecdote to specific friends, and because each narrator spoke in a different language, only the filmmaker knew the whole story. Filmmaker Michael Glover Smith speaks about his experience in creating a short film for the "Destroy Your Art" event at Music Box Theatre on Sept. 26, 2023, in Chicago. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune) The film burned in long pedals of flame. Newell asked how they felt destroying it. Pretty good, the filmmaker said. No one, of course, broke ground here. The history of culture is full of self-inflicted demolition. Radical edits, so to speak. Franz Kafka torched manuscripts seen as not Kafkaesque enough. Jasper Johns, at 24, destroyed almost everything he had painted up to that point. Claude Monet slashed 15 of his waterlily paintings just before an exhibition. Nikolai Gogol, convinced that God disapproved of his sequels to Dead Souls, burned years of writing. The Minneapolis band the Replacements, angry with their record label, tossed master recordings into the Mississippi River. A Banksy painting, having sold for $1 million, revealed itself to have a shredder hidden in its frame, destroying the work in front of a stunned auction house. Even Hollywood directors unsatisfied with their films have a formal way of distancing work: Directed by Alan Smithee is an agreed-upon credit for a disowned movie. Sommer wasnt disowning her film, shot on Lake Michigan and at an Italian festival in Niles. She stood against a wall and watched it play, one time only. She felt bittersweet burning it, she said. Then she burned it, really good like Ive been burning films all my life. Advertisement If youre wondering how Fons and Newell ensure once a film is burned, its gone well, they cant. They ask each filmmaker to sign a contract, drafted by a lawyer. But its possible some of these filmmakers save a copy, Fons said. Still, I doubt it, and if they do, theyre missing out on an experiment. Before home video, it was not an uncommon occurrence to catch a film one time and then never again have access to it. The film might not have been destroyed, but for a chunk of the audience, it could definitely seem like that. That world is gone; much of the history of cinema is a click away. But these films really are gone, Fons said, and you know what? I remember every single one. cborrelli@chicagotribune.com KYIV (Reuters) -British defence minister Grant Shapps discussed how to bolster Ukraine's air defences during talks in Kyiv with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, the president's office said on Thursday. The visit to the Ukrainian capital was Shapps' first to wartime Kyiv since he became defence secretary last month. Britain has been a staunch ally of Ukraine throughout the full-scale invasion launched by Russia in February 2022. "On behalf of the whole nation, I thank you for everything you are doing for us. We are grateful for your help military, financial, humanitarian. We greatly appreciate that we can rely on you," a statement released by Zelenskiy's office quoted the president as saying. Zelenskiy raised defence sector cooperation between Kyiv and London, which he said had allowed Ukraine to significantly expand its capabilities on the battlefield with long-range weapons. Britain this year supplied Storm Shadow cruise missiles that have allowed Ukraine to conduct long-range strikes on targets in Russian-occupied territory. The statement said Shapps and Zelenskiy discussed beefing up air defences in Ukraine amid fears that Russia will use long-range missiles and drones to target critical energy infrastructure in the depths of winter. Ukraine's new defence minister, Rustem Umerov, also met Shapps and said he had briefed him on the battlefield situation and Kyiv's urgent needs. "Focus on air defence, artillery, anti-drone systems. Winter is coming but we are ready. Stronger together," Umerov said on X. It was unclear exactly when Shapps met Zelenskiy. Shapps had already visited Ukraine during the war, but in his previous capacity of energy minister before replacing Ben Wallace as defence minister last month. (Reporting by Anna Pruchnicka; editing by Tom Balmforth and Timothy Heritage) British Airways' new pilot and flight attendant uniforms are here. See the new look and how it's changed over the decades. For the first time in 20 years, all British Airways employees will sport brand-new uniforms. The 125-piece collection includes hijabs, tunics, a trench coat, and an industry-first jumpsuit. British Airways' new look represents a growing trend to create more inclusive uniforms. British Airways has a new look for the first time in 20 years After first teasing the new garb in January, the London-based airline finally released its new pilot and flight attendant uniforms on Thursday. A dress, skirt, trouser suit, and a "stylish" jumpsuit make up the women's wardrobe, while a three-piece suit with regular or slim trousers is available for men. Other items like a trench coat, hijab, ties, tunic, and a long or short-sleeved top are also part of the collection. The entire line-up consists of 125 individual pieces the trench coat and dress being the most popular, according to British Airways. Take a look at the airline's full collection, and how its uniforms have changed over the decades. Created by British-Ghanaian fashion designer Ozwald Boateng, British Airways' new uniforms will be the norm for nearly all employees starting on September 28. Courtesy of British Airways Pilots and flight attendants across the system will transition to the new uniforms on Thursday, with airport employees at Heathrow, Gatwick, London City, and New York-JFK airports also getting the new collection. The rest of the company's global airport workforce will transition to the new uniforms "over the coming days," according to British Airways. This comes after over 5,000 employees, including engineers, mechanics, and ground staff, started wearing the outfits in May 2023. BA's ground operations uniforms unveiled in May 2023. British Airways These garments include detachable tool belts, clothes with extra pockets, and a fleece-lined quilted jacket, the latter being showerproof to keep employees warm and dry in more extreme weather conditions. According to British Airways, the employees' old uniforms have been given to charities or recycled. This is also the plan for the former customer-facing uniforms after Thursday's official rollout. All of the garments and patterns have been carefully selected to represent the brand as well as create continuity across the collection. British Airways' new uniforms. British Airways The suit, which British Airways calls a "fundamental element of the customer-facing uniform," uses a jacquard fabric that points to the airline's historic speedmarque logo. Meanwhile, items including ties, scarves, and the quilted jacket sport an "airwave" design that nods to air moving over an aircraft wing a detail British describes as a "signature feature" of the collection. The jumpsuit is an industry-first, according to the airline. A tunic and hijab have also been created as an option for employees. British Airways' new uniforms. British Airways "One of my main objectives was to create something that spoke to, and for, the airline's colleagues," Boateng said in a press release. "Something that inspired and empowered them, encouraged them to conduct their roles with pride and most importantly to ensure that they felt seen and heard." The new outfits were first teased in January when the carrier published a two-minute video of employees sporting the new looks. British Airways' new uniforms. British Airways According to British Airways, Boateng has worked on the uniforms since 2018, shadowing employees and sourcing feedback from more than 1,500 company staff who participated in workshops to determine the durability and functionality of the design. Then, the uniforms underwent six months of "secret trials" before the January announcement, including having pilots and cabin crew wear them incognito on cargo flights. Maintenance employees also wore them when working on aircraft at Manchester and Cotswold airports in England, both of which were out of the public eye. In addition to regular wear and tear testing, the company also trialed the clothes in 0-degree showers and freezers. British Airways' new uniforms. British Airways British Airways explained the reasoning behind the extreme tests was to ensure "they're water resistant, durable, and fit for extreme weather conditions." Changes were made to the design during the process as employees requested modifications specific to their roles. British Airways' new uniforms. British Airways For example, mechanics asked for "easy access tool pockets" while ground handlers requested touchscreen-compatible fabric so they didn't have to take off their gloves in cold weather to operate devices. The upgrade comes after 20 years of the same look, which was first introduced in 2003 and became one of the most-recognized uniforms in the industry. British Airways uniforms from 2003-2023. Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images After Thursday, the old yet still bold and sophisticated design will become one of a line of former uniforms used by the tens of thousands of employees who have worked for British Airways over the last century. British Airways was actually the airline that first pioneered crew uniforms after an early version of the company gave them to employees in 1922. Lieutenant Ellen E. Church was the "world's original airline stewardess" when she was hired by United in 1930. Bettmann/Getty Images According to Airways Magazine, Instone Air Line, which would eventually become the British Airways we know today, designed military-inspired uniforms using pretty much any garment that was available, and they were fit to the male figure. Female uniforms would not become available until after the first women flight attendant, Ellen Church, flew her first leg in May 1930 with Boeing Air Transport, which is now United Airlines. Most early female cabin crew were nurses, so their look reflected their occupation. After years of dull and ordinary uniforms, the airline eventually spruced up its look with a number of stylish collections in the following decades. Flight attendant uniforms from 1945 (left) and the 1960s (right). Hulton Archive/Getty Images, British Airways As British Airways aircraft improved in the 1930s with more high-class cabins, male flight attendant uniforms soon upgraded to include a white coat to wear when serving meals. The 1940s was the first time a designer was hired to create a full collection for British Airways (then called the British Overseas Airways Corporation, or BOAC), which resulted in more military-style outfits for both men and women that included items like belts and closed collars. The 1950s, however, saw female flight attendants ditch their military-inspired uniform's belt and tight collar for more fashionable pieces. This includes adding more high-fashion garments, like striped skirts and dresses, wool jackets, and flared trousers. The 1960s also saw the airline add red to its uniforms. Each crew member pictured is sporting the uniform they were wearing then they flew the Queen. British Airways The desire for higher fashion was represented in Sir Norman Hartwell's 1960s collection for BOAC, which included navy suits, white blouses, and gloves. Men's outfits continued to be clean and crisp, using dark colors like blue and black. Hartwell also famously designed dresses for the British royal family. Another royal dressmaker, Sir Hardy Aimes, would add red to the uniform, complemented by blues and whites a nod to the UK's Union Jack flag. Staple pieces were a long red trench coat and the shorter skirts. Aimes' successive designs would be used through the 1970s after the merger that created the British Airways we know today. There were several failed designs, however particularly the airline's iconic "paper dress" in 1967, as well as one specifically created for the supersonic Concord in 1976. PA Images via Getty Images, -/Central Press/AFP via Getty Images The paper dress which was actually fireproof and more of a paper-like garment was worn on flights between New York and the Caribbean, and it was thrown out after one use. The entire outfit included a flower-patterned dress cut specifically to each flight attendant's height, as well as tan tights, green slippers, white gloves, and a flower pinned to their hair. The style didn't last long, however, with BOAC retiring it about a year after its release. Meanwhile, the pale blue and navy Concord-specific uniforms which were made to highlight the exclusivity of the speedy jet lasted a mere six months as the company didn't want Concord staff to come off as elitist. Flight attendants from places like Japan and India could also wear cultural dresses from their home countries. British Airways unveiled new cabin crew uniforms for its South Asian routes in 2016. Christophe ArchambaultAFP via Getty Images Specially designed uniforms included garments like kimonos and saris, with this practice being common across the various collections in British Airways history. Designer Julien MacDonald eventually created the 2003 look, but the airline's newly unveiled uniforms are more diverse and are intended to represent the "next chapter" of British Airways. British Airways staff modelling uniforms from the past 90 years at a Johannesburg fashion show in 2012, with Georgia May Jagger in the front center. Rebecca Hearfield/Gallo Images/Getty Images MacDonald's collection, who is a former designer for Chanel, adds options for women and employees of different cultures while still emanating the heritage of British Airways. "We're really excited to start the final phase of the rollout of our brand-new uniform for more than 30,000 colleagues," British Airways' CCO Calum Laming said in a press release. "The stylish modern collection offers our colleagues more choice than ever to help them display more of their original personalities at work." The move comes as airlines worldwide create more inclusive uniforms, like Virgin Atlantic Airways and Alaska Airlines allowing some employees to wear non-gender-specific clothes. Courtesy of Virgin Atlantic British Airways is also now allowing all of its employees to wear things like makeup and fake eyelashes, while any Virgin employee can wear either gender uniform. Meanwhile, Alaska is creating a gender-neutral uniform for flight attendants and airport staff and recently updated guidance on things including nails, hair, and jewelry. Other carriers like Iceland-based Play and Ukrainian airline SkyUp now allow its female flight attendants to ditch the heels and wear sneakers instead. New SkyUp flight attendant uniforms. SkyUp The uniform rules for female flight attendants was particularly strict over the decades. However, a shift in many countries now allows women to wear pants, jackets, and regular shoes when working instead of the traditional look of dresses, skirts, and heels. Read the original article on Business Insider Brooks Houck, right, is seen talking with federal agents at his Glenview Drive residence in Bardstown, Ky. Thursday, Aug. 6, 2020. Over eight years since Bardstown mother Crystal Rogers disappeared, her former boyfriend Brooks Houck has been charged with her murder and tampering with physical evidence in connection with the case. While Houck was named a suspect by investigators as early as 2015, criminal charges were not filed against him in the case until September 2023. Houck has denied involvement in Rogers' disappearance. With his recent arrest, here's what to know about Houck and his connection to the Rogers investigation. Who is Brooks Houck? Brooks Houck was Rogers' boyfriend at the time she went missing on July 3, 2015, from Bardstown. Houck had told officers he'd last seen Rogers alive when they visited his family's farm the night before she disappeared. After Rogers was reported missing, her car was soon found abandoned on the Bluegrass Parkway with her keys, phone and purse still inside. Rogers, 35, is a mother to five children, with her youngest child being shared with Houck. Houck is involved in the real estate business. He is listed as the registered agent for Houck Rentals, according to the Kentucky Secretary of State's office. What is Houck charged with in Crystal Rogers' case? According to court records, Houck is charged with murder "by intentionally or under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to human life wantonly causing the death of Crystal Rogers." Rogers' body has never been recovered, but she is presumed dead. Houck also has been charged with tampering with physical evidence. Houck was arrested "without incident" this month, according to a statement released by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. In the release, the FBI office said its officers have "been laser-focused on our commitment to hold accountable those that were responsible for the disappearance of Crystal Rogers. Today, we take a significant step in making good on that promise." What has Rogers' family said about Houck's arrest? Shortly after charges were filed against Houck, Team Crystal released a statement from Rogers' family via social media. The family thanked lead investigators for their work and requested privacy at this time. The family continues to "pray that justice is served and we bring Crystal home." Houck has been ordered not to contact Rogers' family, according to his indictment. How long has Houck been a suspect in Rogers' disappearance? In October 2015, then-Nelson County Sheriff Ed Mattingly named Houck as "the sole suspect in her disappearance," as reported by the Nelson County Gazette. The investigation was initially handled by the Nelson County Sheriffs Office and Kentucky State Police before the FBI took over the lead investigative role in 2020. Did the Houck family interfere with the Rogers' investigation? Houck's brother, Nick, was a police officer with Bardstown Police at the time of Rogers' disappearance and was fired after interfering in the investigation. The mayor of Bardstown said Nick Houck phoned his brother when he knew Brooks was being interviewed by detectives, warning that his brother "should protect himself," and that investigators "might be trying to trip him up," the Kentucky Standard reported in 2015. City officials held an administrative hearing on Nick Houck's actions and fired him a day later. Several members of state and federal law enforcement were on the scene at the Pulliam Avenue residence of former Bardstown police officer Nick Houck. FBI investigators were searching for evidence in connection to the Crystal Rogers' disappearance in 2015. Which properties owned by Houck have been searched by the FBI? What evidence was found? In August 2020, more than 150 federal agents served search warrants at three sites owned by Houck and his family members. An FBI spokesman said all three had been searched "to various degrees" over the years. In August 2021, agents searched a subdivision where Houck owns properties. Agents reportedly were using a cadaver dog to search the subdivision and a Courier Journal photographer saw investigators using a jackhammer on the driveway of a home. The driveway was dug up, and large chunks of it were hauled out of the neighborhood in construction trucks. On Sept. 7, 2021, the FBI announced that the search in Bardstown had ended, with several "items of interest" sent to a lab in Virginia for testing. Over the past eight years, the Bardstown farm where Rogers was last seen has been a focal point of the investigation, with the most recent search being conducted in late 2022. The land, which sits on 30 acres, is owned by Brooks Houck's mouther. "We hope that the evidence collected will move our investigation one step closer to holding accountable the individual(s) responsible for Crystal Rogers disappearance," the agency wrote in an October 2022 tweet. "FBI Louisville, and all of our law enforcement partners, are committed to successfully resolving this case and giving Crystals family peace, and more importantly justice." No further information has been released on the evidence collected from these searches. Does Houck know Joseph Lawson? Weeks before charges were filed against Houck, a man named Joseph Lawson was arrested in Nelson County and charged with conspiracy to commit murder and tampering with physical evidence, in connection with the Rogers' disappearance Lawson's attorney, Kevin Coleman, declined to offer any further comment when contacted by The Courier Journal. Lawson, 32, was the first person arrested in connection with Rogers' disappearance. Lawson's name had not surfaced publicly in the investigation before his arrest. But WHAS reported that Houck referred to an employee named Steve Lawson previously when interrogated by the Nelson County Sheriff's Office. The Courier Journal has not been able to confirm any relation between the two Lawsons. When will Brooks Houck appear in court? Houck's arraignment is scheduled for Oct. 5, 2023, in Nelson Circuit Court. His bond is set at $10 million. This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Brooks Houck arrested: How he connects to Rogers' investigation A tense debate across the American West over whether homeless people should be allowed to sleep in public has created some strange bedfellows in California. In recent days, some of the state's most prominent liberal leaders have pushed back against a set of court rulings that have restricted local authorities from clearing streets in certain situations, such as when people are living outdoors in cities without shelter beds to offer. Gov. Gavin Newsom , a prominent Democrat on the national stage, has gone so far as to ask the conservative U.S. Supreme Court to weigh in, while San Francisco Mayor London Breed also a Democrat has said her city will relaunch efforts to clear encampments after securing a "clarification" on the law from a lower appellate court. Both Newsom and Breed have split from many on their party's progressive left and the liberal judges behind the rulings, siding instead with conservative jurists and constituents who are fed up with the proliferation of encampments. "While I agree with the basic principle that a city shouldn't criminalize homeless individuals for sleeping outside when they have nowhere else to go within that city's boundaries, courts continue to reach well beyond that narrow limit to block any number of reasonable efforts to protect homeless individuals and the broader public from the harms of uncontrolled encampments," Newsom said in a statement last week. Explaining the state's decision to join an ongoing legal challenge to one recent decision, Newsom said it is "time for the courts to stop these confusing, impractical and costly rulings that only serve to worsen this humanitarian crisis." Read more: California lawmakers vote to ban mandatory evictions for arrested tenants The two cases in question are distinct but have significant overlap. The first is out of Grants Pass, Ore., where the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals last September overturned a set of local ordinances that barred homeless people from sleeping in certain public areas when there were no shelter beds available. The decision reiterated a ruling from 2018, when the 9th Circuit found that the 8th Amendment's ban on cruel and unusual punishment "prohibits the imposition of criminal penalties for sitting, sleeping, or lying outside on public property for homeless individuals who cannot obtain shelter." After the appeals court refused to rehear the Grants Pass case in July, conservative judges lambasted their liberal colleagues for ignoring "the defining public health and safety crisis in the western United States," saying the rulings would allow the deterioration of public spaces and safety, especially in Los Angeles, San Francisco and other major cities struggling with homelessness. On Friday, Newsom who often spars with leading Republicans as a surrogate for President Biden intervened in the case specifically to call on the Supreme Court to take it up on appeal. Newsom used similar language as the dissenting conservative 9th Circuit judges, calling homelessness "one of our nation's most vexing problems," and blasting the Grants Pass ruling as too restrictive on local jurisdictions. The governor said he agreed with the separate 2018 ruling protecting homeless people with nowhere else to go, but said the Grants Pass ruling had done little to "disabuse" misinterpretations of that standard. He argued that it further undermined public safety by creating ambiguities around improvised structures, cooking stoves and the sort of sleeping arrangements homeless people are entitled to have on the street. Newsom wrote that "state and local leaders need the flexibility to craft policies that balance competing interests, particularly when faced with problems as complex as the crisis of homelessness afflicting many cities today," and that the courts "are not well-suited to micromanage such nuanced policy issues based on ill-defined rules." He called on the Supreme Court to take up the case in order to "clarify the scope and limits of the Eight Amendment rights" of homeless people that the appellate court had cited. Newsom also criticized another case out of San Francisco, where a lower court issued an injunction blocking enforcement of city ordinances that allow for the removal of homeless people and encampments from public property. Read more: Dianne Feinstein's frailty, fight for family millions color her final Senate chapter The ruling was based on a finding that San Francisco did not have enough shelter beds to house all of the homeless people in the city, and that those on the street were therefore "involuntarily homeless" with nowhere else to go. San Francisco has since challenged the injunction at the 9th Circuit, where the case was argued last month and remains pending. Breed on Monday said the city would resume clearing encampments, thanks to a "clarification" from the court on what it means to be "involuntarily homeless." The 9th Circuit panel overseeing the case one Trump appointee and two Biden appointees denied the city's motion to modify the injunction, but noted that the parties in the case "agree that a person is not involuntarily homeless if they have declined a specific offer of available shelter or otherwise have access to such shelter or the means to obtain it." Breed took that as a pass to begin clearing encampments again so long as the people in them are offered shelter elsewhere even if they refuse it. "Our commitment is clear. We will: Work to bring people indoors. Continue to offer shelter and house people. Enforce our laws when these offers are refused," Breed wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "People who have been offered available shelter should not be allowed to remain out camping on our streets." Both Newsom and Breed couched their positions as compassionate ones, including for the homeless people they wish to displace. No one should be left to live on the street, they said. However, critics condemned their actions as cruel and misinformed. They argue that the true scope of the underlying rulings in both the Grants Pass and San Francisco cases is more narrow than what Newsom and Breed contend. "Instead of seeking to punish people simply because they can not afford the limited housing in California, the governor, and elected officials at all levels should focus their attention on policy solutions such as building more affordable housing, providing subsidies to those who are at risk of losing their housing, and investing in holistic services," the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights of the San Francisco Bay Area, which is representing the plaintiffs in the case, said in a statement. "Misstating the scope of court decisions and scapegoating unhoused people will allow for further criminalization of people who have nowhere to go, and is not the answer," the group said. In San Francisco, the debate has become deeply embittered, with each side accusing the other of acting in bad faith. Last month, the Coalition on Homelessness wrote on X that it had filed the lawsuit against the city because the city was improperly discarding homeless people's property and "citing and arresting people who are involuntarily homeless." Read more: There's a hidden crisis among California's rural kids. Would this teen make it? In an interview with The Times on Wednesday, Jennifer Friedenbach, the group's executive director, called Newsom's and Breed's stances on clearing encampments "unfortunate." "Citing and arresting people who don't have any choice in being homeless is a huge waste of resources and exacerbates homelessness, and both Newsom and Breed seem to be advocating for punishing people because they can't afford rent," Friedenbach said. In her comments on X this week, Breed said the city was working to ensure that city workers "understand what has changed" in the litigation before sending them out on the streets, in part because those suing the city "will still be out interfering with their work." "These activists are the same people who hand out tents to keep people on the street instead of working to bring them indoors, as we are trying to do," Breed wrote. "They are instructing and encouraging people to refuse shelter to remain on the street instead of going indoors." Breed claimed San Francisco has helped 10,000 people find housing since 2018 and has one of the largest per capita supplies of permanent supportive housing in the country. Friedenbach said her group's members are simply "monitoring that people's constitutional rights are being protected" when they are out at encampments. She said more people are being sheltered since her group's lawsuit was filed, which was ultimately the goal. 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. A California man has died after he fell from the Waipoo Falls Trail in Hawaii, officials announced. The victim was identified as Mark Debarr, a 66-year-old from the Golden State, a news release stated, without releasing his hometown. Kauai police responded to reports of a man falling from the hiking trail shortly after 10:10 a.m. on Friday, which is about 1:10 p.m. in California. What caused the Maui wildfires? Authorities discovered that Debarr fell off the trail and was located about 120 feet below the falls. Foul play is not suspected in DeBarrs death and an autopsy is pending, police said. Kauai is home to Mount Waialeale, considered to be one of the wettest spots on Earth, and features hiking trails and popular beaches frequented by locals and tourists alike. Earlier this year, a 77-year-old California woman died after experiencing trouble while snorkeling in Kauai and last year, 46 people were rescued off the Kauai coastline, SFGate reported. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. A California prison guard has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges that he accepted bribes to smuggle cellphones into the California Medical Center in Vacaville, court records say. Stephen Joseph Crittenden, 43, of Suisun City, was indicted on two counts of bribery alleging he smuggled phones into the prison between July 3, 2022, and Oct. 5, 2022, according to an indictment unsealed Thursday morning in Sacramento federal court. Crittenden made his initial court appearance Thursday afternoon in Sacramento and pleaded not guilty. He was released on his own recognizance and his next hearing was scheduled for Dec. 14. If convicted, Crittenden could face up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has worked for years to prevent contraband such as cellphones from being brought into prisons, with staff and visitors subject to searches. But the use of drones to drop items near prisons has increased dramatically in recent years, particularly during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic when in-prison visitation was limited, CDCR says. During the same period of time that movement into the institutions was restricted, including in-person visiting for the incarcerated population due to the COVID-19 pandemic, CDCR experienced a significant increase in contraband discoveries as a result of unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) sightings, mail and package screening, and contraband found dropped on or near institution grounds, CDCR says. In 2019, prior to COVID-19, there were a total of 48 drone sightings/discoveries; in 2020, the number decreased to 25. At the peak of the pandemic, 2021, CDCR recorded a total of 138 drone sightings/discoveries, and as of December 9, 2022, there have been 245 drone sightings/discoveries. Are you looking for somewhere your children can play with others that look like them? Are they tired of being a minority in their schools or daycares? Sounds like an advertisement for a school looking to recruit children of color, right? Wrong. Its actually language taken from signs for a whites only playgroup posted in public spaces around the Vancouver area of British Columbia, Canada. If youre scratching your head right now, I wouldnt blame you. Read more In a September 25 statement on X, formerly known as Twitter, Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West called the signs vile garbage, adding that they arent welcome in the community. 1/Regarding a racist sign in our city: As soon as it was brought to our attention, Bylaw officers immediately searched the area & all bus stops, but no signs were present. Perhaps being removed by someone else. This vile garbage isnt welcome in our community, or anywhere else. Brad West (@BradWestPoCo) September 25, 2023 The City of Port Coquitlam condemns this in the strongest terms and promotes an environment without hate, Mayor West shared. 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. (WHTM) Thousands of whole cantaloupe sold in 19 states have been recalled due to potential salmonella contamination, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced Thursday. The recall includes 6,456 cases of Eagle Produces Kandy brand whole cantaloupe with the UPC code 4050 and lot codes 797900, 797901 and 804918. The recalled fruit was distributed between Sept. 5 and Sept. 16 in California, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Washington, D.C. Recalled Cantaloupe (FDA) Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems, the FDA says. Best foods to eat in Pennsylvania, according to Food Network As of Sept. 27, no illnesses have been reported. No other products or lot code dates are included in this recall. The FDA says anyone with the recalled fruit, which was sold in various supermarkets, should not consume it but instead should throw it out. Also, anyone concerned about an illness should contact a healthcare provider. Consumers can contact Eagle Produce LLC for more information at 1-800-627-8674 between Monday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. Few mariners would deny the possibility of Sisyphean ghost ships, forever sailing through tempest and tumult. Richard Wagners fantastical 1843 opera The Flying Dutchman finds drama in the possibility of a return to port for the titular Netherlander. If The Dutchman, cursed to find land only every seven years, can coax the love of a true and faithful woman, the curse will be lifted. Dramatically speaking, then, that gives any director of this perennially fascinating German opera two main options: Emphasize the redemptive power of love, albeit within a patriarchal context, or the soul-crushing cost of the curse. Advertisement Its fair to say that director Christopher Aldens expressionistic production, now docked at the Lyric Opera with the Polish bass-baritone Tomasz Konieczny in the title role, is filled almost entirely with the latter. The milieu here, as designed by Allen Moyer and lit by Anne Militello, suggests a world of lost souls, trapped on or under a huge, tilted box, bombarded not so much by the waters (as Wagner once was himself, inspiring this opera), but by their own depressive states. Lyric has produced the opera without an intermission, as a then-young Wagner intended in a shot across the bow of form. Thats thematically apt: curses are relentless. Advertisement Konieczny, a formidable performer reaching deep into his gut, imbues his singing with the sense of dread that matches Aldens conceit. He comes across as a man, if the nameless Dutchman can be said to be human, who has sailed so long he has ceased to believe. The performance is hardly optimistic about the quest that structures the opera. On the contrary, Senta (Tamara Wilson), the woman who finds this man and his associated proposition attractive, is getting involved with a profoundly damaged wreck. Then again, you could argue this has not been a good deal for her since 1843. Tamara Wilson, Melody Wilson and company in "The Flying Dutchman" at Lyric Opera of Chicago. (Todd Rosenberg/HANDOUT) The huge vocal performance by the American soprano raised around these parts first suggests that all hope has not been abandoned here. But this is singing very much au fait with the shows conceit: Wilson, consistently compelling but also unnerving, sings as if Senta were tugged by a string from the underworld. You dont ever believe she will offer salvation through gentle love; she is playing out her role in the curse, fighting vocally with her own humanity and ending up on the losing side. The Finnish bass Mika Kares, who sings the role of Daland, a sea captain and Sentas dad, has the same sense of dread as if he knew the end of this story from the beginning. Those two fine voices certainly contrast most strikingly, but theyre of a psychological piece. So is Erik (the fine tenor Robert Watson), who sings without the belief he has much of a chance against these forces. He is like a piece of dried-up cod tossed in a Nordic harbor. And his flailings are something to hear. All of that works together for an intense operatic experience and, as an inveterate audience gazer, I noted how some of the faces around me seemed to fix themselves for several minutes in versions of Edvard Munchs The Scream, which I took as a popular endorsement, at least by Wagner fans who see the composers celebrated leitmotifs as existential blueprints for persons with little control over their fate. Tamara Wilson, Tomasz Konieczn and company in "The Flying Dutchman" at Lyric Opera of Chicago. (Todd Rosenberg/HANDOUT) Does conductor Enrique Mazzola and his orchestra match this Wagnerian storm? Not always; I sometimes felt they were struggling to keep up with the ships of souls, not commanding them or tossing them around or even revealing the depth of the churn. Its tricky; the production is far more interested in a state of mind and therefore some degree of stasis is perhaps inevitable. No one here is saving anybody. Here we have a fully realized musical picture of the limitations of humanity, writ large in the ensembles of sailors and lost souls, their revels pathetic in their inability to effect any kind of real change. Is Alden saying something here about Wagners views and what happened in Germany about 100 years after this opera was written? Something about how history teaches us we typically bob on the waters until its too late to save those at risk? Certainly, its clear that Wagernian intent is just a part of a weighty Lyric cruise to Hadestown and back. Ships have been getting bigger and bigger all these years. So have their sunk costs. And turn radiuses. Advertisement Chris Jones is a Tribune critic. Theater Loop Weekly Get the latest news and reviews from America's hottest theater city, delivered to your mailbox weekly. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy > cjones5@chicagotribune.com Review: The Flying Dutchman (3.5 stars) When: Through Oct. 7 Where: Lyric Opera of Chicago, 20 N. Wacker Drive Running time: 2 hours, 30 minutes Advertisement Tickets: $52-$339 at 312-827-5600 and www.lyricopera.org The capital regions flagship public radio station is in dire financial straits and mishandled funds that were meant to ease the strain, an audit from the California State University system shows. Capital Public Radio, the regions NPR affiliate, had significant financial problems according to university auditors the report released Wednesday said the stations management mishandled money, took out loans without the knowledge of its own board of directors and missed rent payments, among financial discrepancies. The station was also chided for failing to follow mandates that it serve the academic needs of Sacramento State students. Sacramento State President Luke Wood announced the university would assume operational control of the entity. That would not include the news operations, which will remain under CapRadios control and separate from the school. One thing is abundantly clear: We have real and immediate work to do to ensure CapRadios financial controls and operational processes are disciplined, sound, and transparent going forward, Wood said in a statement. The financial implications of CapRadios mismanagement have significant consequences for Sacramento State, but we will make it through. The audit followed the stations sudden late-August announcement that it had laid off 12% of its workforce and canceled four of its music shows. The finances are pretty severe right now for CapRadio. We owe a lot of money to vendors. We barely have enough cash to keep us going right now. We are making payroll. Its just been a very, very tough time. We have no reserves, said Tom Karlo, the interim general manager, in an interview on CapRadio on Sept. 5. The Bee previously reported that the station owes vendors $3.3 million in unpaid bills from the past two fiscal years, according to a budget presentation made on Aug. 30 to CapRadios executive board. One of those vendors is NPR itself, a bill that has not been paid for more than a year. Not included in that deficit is the rent it owes Sacramento State for its current East Sacramento headquarters, also unpaid since September 2022. Sacramento State owns the central license for CapRadios two main stations KXJZ-FM (90.9) and KXPR-FM (88.9). A former employee said the university practically bailed out the broadcaster with an infusion of cash over the summer. Had the university not come in with an infusion of cash at the eleventh hour, there may not be a CapRadio, former music director Nick Brunner previously told The Bee. Brunner learned on Aug. 30 that the station had laid him off after he lost access to his work email. Capital Public Radios current offices on the campus of Sacramento State on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The NPR-affiliated broadcaster announced layoffs this month amid costly construction projects and a dip in revenue. Will CapRadio still carry NPR? Although the station has not paid fees to NPR, the nations public radio broadcaster based in Washington, since last year, it remains likely favorites like All Things Considered, Fresh Air, Wait, Wait, Dont Tell Me will continue to be carried. While we cant comment on our relationship with specific programmers, we are making progress on payment plans with each, Karlo said. These public media colleagues have demonstrated the meaning of partnership and want to see CapRadio succeed. After announcing staff layoffs and resulting programming changes on Aug. 23, we have no further programming changes planned, he said. As a public media station, we will continue to review our content from a broadcast and digital audience engagement standpoint. Representatives for NPR did not immediately respond Wednesday evening to questions about programming on 90.9 FM, the news station. Other shows, such as Marketplace and This American Life are provided for a fee to the station from other media organizations, such as American Public Media and Public Radio International. Also unaffected are classical and jazz numbers played on CapRadios music channel, which is operated like other traditional music-only stations. CapRadio recently ran its on-air listener fundraising drive, urging listeners to donate by citing its financial problems and asking for the communitys help, and Wood noted in his statement the importance of the operation to the region. We are fighting to save our auxiliary, Wood said, referring to the operation. CapRadio has been part of the fabric of Sacramento and Northern California for decades. It is important to us to maintain the health and integrity of such a valuable and beloved media institution. How CapRadio started The gutting of CapRadios music team in August marked a sharp deviation from the classical and jazz roots that once formed the backbone of CapRadios programming. On Oct. 5, 1964, a humble student-run broadcast known as KERS-FM (88.9) signed on the air as Sacramentos first non-commercial radio station. The broadcast primarily featured recorded lectures from Sac State professors in addition to tapes from the BBC and the Thomas Sherman Little Symphony Society of New York, according to The Bees previous reporting. We have a cultural goal to provide a certain type (of) program not readily available over commercial radio, said Howard Martin, an assistant professor of speech at Sac State and the faculty advisor to the students who were running the station, in a 1964 Bee article. The small 10-watt station grew in power throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s, but the region still lacked a true public radio station. Starting in 1975, Sac States Communications Studies Department under Barbara OConnor embarked on a mission to bring what was then called National Public Radio to Californias capital region. Three years later, KERS signed off and relaunched as KXPR-FM (88.9) in 1979. The new station primarily played classical and jazz music, but it also began to feature NPR programming, such as All Things Considered and later Morning Edition, as well as radio theater programs like Star Wars and Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy. By the early 1990s, the now-mighty KXPR was broadcasting 24 hours a day and boasted an annual budget of more than $1 million. The station applied for and later launched a second FM station, KXJZ-FM (90.9). Originally, KXJZ emphasized jazz music alongside news and public affairs. But ever since 1996 when the broadcaster consolidated news programming onto one channel, many listeners now tune in to 90.9 FM to get their daily dose of news and current events from NPR and the BBC, among other broadcasters. Two new stations, KKTO and KXSR, expanded the companys reach even further into the Lake Tahoe Basin and the Groveland area. The year 1998 saw KXPR/KXJZ Inc. rebrand itself as Capital Public Radio in recognition of the companys growth beyond its first two flagship stations. Altogether, CapRadio operates a total of seven FM frequencies and six FM translators that repeat the signals for those news and music stations. It also operates North State Public Radio, two stations owned by Chico State. The Bees Sam Stanton contributed to this story. WASHINGTON Sen. Bob Menendez , D-N.J., has stepped down as chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee following his indictment over an Egypt-linked bribe scandal, but the panels new leader could still hinder Saudi attempts to strike a defense pact with the U.S. and Turkeys bid to procure F-16 fighter jets. After his staff distributed a picture and flyer of Saudi political prisoner Abdulrahman Al-Sadhan to reporters at a press conference on Thursday, Sen. Ben Cardin , D-Md., stressed that hell make human rights concerns a key factor in approving arms sales to other countries, a privilege he now enjoys as committee chairman. Its interesting, we have certain relationships right now in regards to Saudi Arabia, said Cardin. I will be mentioning this person [Al-Sadhan] during these discussions. It gets personal, but we wont see policy changes in these countries. As chairman, Cardin will also have considerable influence in whether to advance any security treaty with Saudi Arabia requiring Senate ratification. He will also need to make a quick decision on whether to hold $235 million in Egypt military aid following the Menendez indictment by the end of the week. The Biden administration had been in close contact with Menendez on both its negotiations with Saudi Arabia and Turkey, though Cardin is still waiting to receive those briefings in the weeks ahead after assuming the chairmanship on Wednesday. Saudi Arabia has asked the U.S. for a mutual defense pact and a civilian nuclear agreement as conditions to normalize ties with Israel. Cardin said hes very excited about a Saudi-Israel normalization deal, calling it a game changer in the region but cautioned he would demand human rights accountability and security cooperation safeguards as part of any U.S. commitments to Riyadh. Cardin highlighted Saudi Arabias 2018 murder of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi on the orders of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, noting Theres still not been fully accountability with regards to those responsible. These issues need to be talked about and we have to have it included as we talk about a security agreement in the United States and Saudi Arabia, he said. And theres got to be guardrails because any security agreement the United States commits to help defend another country to make sure that its always in our national security interest to get engaged. But he added that a successful security agreement, with safeguards, could open up more opportunities for arms sales with the Saudis. If we dont have an agreement, then theres a great concern as to the use of American military on the Saudis that weve seen in the previous campaigns, and I know theres a great deal of interest among my colleagues on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he told Defense News. TOPSHOTS Yemenis stand at the site of a Saudi air strike against Huthi rebels near Sanaa Airport on March 26, 2015, which killed at least 13 civilians. Saudi warplanes bombed Huthi rebels in Yemen, launching a military intervention by a 10-nation coalition to prevent the fall of embattled President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi. AFP PHOTO / MOHAMMED HUWAIS Before backtracking and entering defense pact negotiations with the Saudis, President Joe Biden announced shortly after taking office that he would ban offensive arms sales to Riyadh including an $8 billion deal for precision-guided missiles agreed to in the Trump administration because of the Khashoggi murder and U.S.-backed bombing campaign in Yemen that killed close to 9,000 civilians. Last week, the State Department approved a $500 million arms sale in repairs and spare parts for U.S. tanks and armored vehicles owned by the Saudis. This includes equipment that Saudi border guards used to kill hundreds of Ethiopian migrants and asylum seekers attempting to cross into the kingdom from Yemen, as documented in an August Human Rights Watch report. Menendez would have had to greenlight this sale, despite announcing a hold on Saudi arms sales last year beyond what is absolutely necessary to defend U.S. personnel and interests amid Democratic outrage over Riyadhs agreement to increase oil output with Russia. Turkey and Egypt Cardin also said that he talked with Turkish representatives at the NATO ambassadors meeting on Wednesday. I reminded them to stay on track to get the accession of Sweden into NATO, said Cardin. They claim thatll be done first part of next month. If that is true, then we should have the NATO issue resolved, but there are other issues in addition to just NATO accession that needs to be part of our discussions going forward. He said he had not made a decision on whether he would allow the F-16 sale to proceed. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan explicitly linked the two issues this month, stating that Ankara would ratify Swedens accession if the U.S. moves forward on the F-16 sale. The Turkish parliament could take up Swedens accession bid when it returns from a months-long recess in October. Menendezs former position as Foreign Relations chairman proved to be Turkeys chief obstacle in inking the roughly $20 billion sale for 40 Block 70 F-16 fighter jets and modernization kits. He had repeatedly said Swedens NATO accession would not be enough for him to approve the sale, at times pointing to a range of other concerns like border tensions with Greece and Ankaras jailing of journalists and political opponents. The Justice Departments indictment against Menendez alleges that he ghost wrote a letter for an Egyptian official lobbying his Senate colleagues not to hold $300 million of Egypts annual $1.3 billion in military aid in exchange for bribes in cash and gold bars. Cardin is also deliberating whether to block $235 million of Egypt military aid that the Biden administration approved via a national security waiver this month. He would need to do this by the end of the month. The allegations against Senator Menendez are horrific, and they also involve allegations concerning his role as chairman of the committee, said Cardin. So, that is extremely challenging to all of us here. However, he stressed that the indictment did not implicate any Foreign Relations Committee staffers. Cardin last took Menendezs place as lead Democrat on the committee during the New Jersey senators first federal indictment in 2015. However, that indictment did not implicate Menendezs work on the committee. While Menendez was required to step down as chairman per Senate rules, he currently remains on the Foreign Relations Committee. By Luc Cohen NEW YORK (Reuters) - In 2018, a bespectacled Stanford graduate named Caroline Ellison decided to leave her job on Wall Street to join a startup cryptocurrency hedge fund called Alameda Research because she thought she would earn more money to give to charitable causes. Now, a year after Alameda collapsed, Ellison is preparing to testify as a key witness at the Oct. 3 criminal fraud trial against its founder, another budding young philanthropist who also owned the now-bankrupt FTX cryptocurrency exchange: Sam Bankman-Fried. Ellison became one of Bankman-Fried's top lieutenants as he grew his crypto empire. The two lived together in a luxury penthouse in the Bahamas, and were on-and-off romantic partners. Her firsthand account is expected to be crucial to helping Manhattan federal prosecutors try to convict Bankman-Fried on fraud charges stemming from FTX's November 2022 implosion. He has pleaded not guilty to charges of stealing billions of dollars in FTX customer funds to plug losses at Alameda. Ellison, who became Alameda's co-chief executive in 2021 and assumed full control last year, has pleaded guilty to fraud charges and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors. She said at a Dec. 19, 2022, plea hearing that she helped Alameda make billions of dollars in loans to Bankman-Fried and other FTX executives, and hide them from lenders. During the hearing, Ellison said she was sorry for what she did and knew her conduct was wrong. Her lawyer declined to comment. Prosecutors have said that at trial they plan to play a recording of a Nov. 9, 2022, meeting in which Ellison told Alameda employees the company borrowed FTX user funds to repay its lenders. An employee pressed her on who decided to use customer deposits. "Um ... Sam I guess," Ellison responded, according to prosecutors' court papers. ELLISON SOUGHT TO 'MAXIMIZE IMPACT' Ellison's plea marked a dramatic turn in the course of her life. The daughter of two Massachusetts Institute of Technology economics scholars, Ellison was a high achiever, taking part in math competitions throughout high school and college and landing a job in New York as a quantitative trader with Jane Street after graduating Stanford, she said in a July 2020 FTX podcast. "All I did was read books," she said of her Boston-area childhood, adding she was "obsessed" with Harry Potter and "worked pretty hard in high school." She met Bankman-Fried at Jane Street. Like him, she had grown interested during college in the effective altruism movement, which promotes data-driven philanthropy and encourages talented young people to take high-earning jobs and give generously to meaningful causes. She told the FTX podcast she decided to join Bankman-Fried at Alameda despite lacking experience with cryptocurrencies to "maximize my impact." "The EV (expected value) of how much money I'll end up making working here is pretty high," she said. Ellison indeed earned money, including $28.8 million in bonuses in addition to FTX stock options, FTX's current management said in a July lawsuit against her, Bankman-Fried, and other former executives. FTX said Bankman-Fried took over $500 million in fraudulent loans from Alameda. Ellison nonetheless appears to have been unhappy at Alameda long before its collapse. In July, the New York Times published an article citing her personal writings from early 2022, in which she described feeling "unhappy and overwhelmed" at work and "hurt/rejected" by a breakup with Bankman-Fried. Kaplan jailed Bankman-Fried for sharing the writings with the reporter, saying it likely amounted to witness tampering. ELLISON MAY TESTIFY ABOUT ENCRYPTED MESSAGES Prosecutors may ask Ellison about whether Bankman-Fried directed employees to use encrypted messaging platforms and ensure their messages automatically deleted. She has told prosecutors that Bankman-Fried said it is hard to build a case if information is not written down or preserved, court records show. If she makes a similar statement on the stand, prosecutors could use it to argue Bankman-Fried knew what he was doing was wrong. Bankman-Fried has acknowledged inadequate risk management at FTX and Alameda, but denied stealing funds. His lawyers are expected to challenge Ellison's credibility, and to try to shift some blame onto her by arguing he was not running Alameda at the time it racked up massive debts. Days before FTX declared bankruptcy, Ellison told Bankman-Fried her "increasing dread of this day" had been weighing on her for a long time, according to prosecutors. "Now that it's actually happening," she wrote, "it just feels great to get it over with one way or another." (Reporting by Luc Cohen in New York; Editing by Noeleen Walder and Daniel Wallis) It is a come-on long beloved by carnival barkers, casino billboards, and lottery ads: You cant win if you dont play. But this obvious truism doesnt seem to apply to Donald Trump , who is viewed as invulnerable to everything from four indictments to a deranged online diatribe implying that Mark Milley, the outgoing chairman of the Joint Chiefs Staff, deserves to be executed for treason. The conventional wisdom after Wednesday nights GOP debate at the Ronald Reagan Library was that there was one obvious winner: Trump, the man who wasnt there. The Wall Street Journal summed up the postdebate mood in an online headline: GOP Presidential Candidates Fail to Outshine Trump at Second Debate. The Washington Post concurred in a subhead: GOP presidential hopefuls grasp at fading chance to make an impression as Trump again skips the event. Late in Wednesday nights seven-candidate face-off, beleaguered moderator Dana Perino actually framed a question around this seemingly nondebatable premise: Its now obvious that if you all stay in the race, former President Donald Trump wins the nomination. So which one of you on stage tonight should be voted off the island? When the candidates refused to play along with this reality-show gimmick, Perino turned to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to ask bluntly, What is your mathematical path in order to try to beat President Trump, who has a commanding and enduring lead in the race? DeSantis, who originally was hailed as a strong challenger to Trump, responded with blather: Polls dont elect presidents. Voters elect presidents. That was almost as much of a political cliche as if DeSantis had held up a newspaper headline reading, DEWEY DEFEATS TRUMAN. But what Perino and the morning-after punditry miss is that it is still comparatively early in the Republican cycleand there is still ample time for a non-Trump candidate to make a definitive move. While Trump is obviously the favorite, the Republican 2024 caucus and primary calendar is weird enough to leave the former president vulnerable in the early going. In truth, DeSantis, former South Carolina Nikki Haley, and South Carolina Senator Tim Scott still boast plausible paths to the nomination. All three candidates are backed by enough Super PAC money to seriously compete in the January 15 Iowa caucuses and the likely January 23 New Hampshire primary. It is much harder to make a case for Mike Pence and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, since both are viewed negatively by more than half of potential Republican primary voters, according to a new Washington Post/Ipsos poll. The odds are even more daunting for outsider candidate Vivek Ramaswamy (a Trump clone blessed with a unique talent to antagonize his fellow debaters, particularly Haley) who admitted without prompting Wednesday night that hes viewed as a bit of a know-it-all. As for North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, one hopes he enjoyed what were probably his last moments on a debate stage, since he will be hard-pressed to qualify for the next one in early November. Most of the premature certainty about Trumps renomination is based on national polling. But caucuses and primaries are sequential, with the results in one state often influencing later voters. Despite constant polling in Iowa, it is nearly impossible at this stage to accurately predict who will show up in person for the caucuses on a cold Monday evening in January. Republican turnout in Iowa jumped from about 120,000 caucus-goers in 2008 and 2012 to more than 185,000 in 2016 when Ted Cruz narrowly defeated Trump. The Iowa caucuses depend as much on organization as they do on broad appeal, which means that the currently lopsided Iowa polls could be surveying Republicans who wont actually caucus. The New Hampshire primary, whose date is still not officially fixed, will partially be shaped by the Iowa results. But it is also almost impossible to forecast GOP turnout, since 38 percent of New Hampshire voters are independents who can vote in either the Republican or Democratic primaries. With scant drama on the Democratic side (Biden will not even campaign in the state because the party considers it an outlaw primary), there could be an outpouring of moderate voters opting for a GOP ballot. What will magnify the January 23 New Hampshire results is the odd scheduling quirk that there will be no major delegate contest slated on the Republican side for a month after the first-in-the-nation primary. Yes, there is a Nevada primary scheduled for February 6 and caucuses in the state on February 8, but the Trump-dominated state party has been threatening candidates who plan to campaign in the primary. The result of this chaos is that the GOP contenders are voting with their itineraries by ignoring Nevada for the most part. If Trump loses New Hampshirewhich remains a plausible outcomethe image of the Great Mans fall from grace will dominate the conversation until the February 24 primary in South Carolina, which is the home state of Haley and Scott. Even though Trump is currently near 50 percent in the South Carolina polls, those numbers could be evanescent if he has underperformed in the early going. And the impossible-to-gauge South Carolina outcome will have an immediate echo in the Michigan primary three days later. All this is prelude to Super Tuesday on March 5, when about a dozen states, including California and Texas, weigh in. Political soothsayers also tend to forget that Trump may be spending considerable time early in the year scowling in courtrooms with the possibility of multiple guilty verdicts hovering over the campaign. In fact, Trump may end up as a double loserin the eyes of both a jury and the voters in the early primaries. None of this is designed to argue that Trump will lose the nomination. But the talking heads and the political railbirds are underestimating the chances that he could lose. What we have seen in the debates is that both Haley and Scott can be compelling. And even DeSantis, for all of his lack of discernible charm, can be effective. As much as the media craves certainty, we still have a long way to go before we have a 2024 Republican nominee. A Miami-Dade police major is getting a promotion and moving north to Georgia. Michael Dieppa, of Miami, was named the new Chamblee Police Chief after a six-month search by the department. I am excited for the opportunity to lead the Chamblee Police Department and honored to serve our community, Dieppa said in a statement. I look forward to getting started and building on the agencys tradition of excellence. My goals are to ensure public safety while finding innovative methods to address quality of life concerns for our residents and visitors. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Dieppa brings nearly 30 years of experience as a law enforcement officer as he steps into his new role in Georgia. According to a release by the City of Chamblee, Dieppa first began his career in Miami in 1996, starting as a police officer. The city said he rose through the ranks of the Miami-Dade Police Department quickly, becoming a sergeant, then lieutenant, then captain, safety training director, and police major. As a major, Dieppa led the Miami-Dade Narcotics/Warrants Bureau and served on multiple special assignments related to logistics for the 2019 Super Bowl. TRENDING STORIES: Dieppa also helped lead the 2019 Mass Casualty Attack Training program for the Miami-Dade Police Department, which involved deploying 1,500 body-worn cameras and drafting policy for their use. Additionally, Dieppa received a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership from St. Thomas University, a Master of Science in Leadership from Nova Southeastern University, and a Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation from St. Thomas University. Dieppa is also a member of the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy Associates, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, Police Executive Research Forum, Dade County Police Benevolent Association and the Hispanic Police Officers Association During his time in law enforcement, Dieppa was awarded the Bronze Medal of Valor and more. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] OTHER NEWS: The second, Trump-less Republican presidential debate Wednesday night at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in California was an often ugly, uncontrollable mess between a septet of candidates trying either to stay in the mix or leap to a new stage of competitiveness. There was not one, single targetthere were seven. (Well, six. Love ya, Doug Burgum. Youll get time to speak shortly). The melee reflected the changing landscape among the non-Trump candidates since the first debate. Leading into Augusts throw down, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was still the clear Trump alternative. That wasnt the case heading into Wednesday night. DeSantis is now actively duking it out for primacy in the race to take on Donald Trump down the stretch. Before Trump, DeSantis has to contend with Nikki Haley, whose polling support and resources have risen since a strong first debate, and with Tim Scott, whom the donor class and pre-Trump establishment likes but needs to see a little more from. Haley, once again, had the strongest debate, mixing well-prepared answers on education, China, and the border with the only noncringeworthy zingers in a night full of catastrophic attempts from her competitors. There was something spectacular in Haley that prompted her, following Vivek Ramaswamys consultant-borne direct-to-camera moment trying to level with voters who find him annoying, to turn to him and say, Every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber. (Dont confuse the fields kicking of Ramaswamy, which picked up right where it left off from the first debate, with fear of him. It gets them speaking time and attention to get into it with a real, live character, in Trumps absence.) The only Trump campaign attack email I received during the debate was one titled The Real Nikki Haley, listing her supposed heresies. Shes made the Trump campaigns radar, which has been trained almost exclusively on DeSantis for the duration of the campaign. What of DeSantis? First: He continues to need work on his pivot from speaking to smiling. This is grisly, folks: DeSantis cant help but do that weird smile thing. pic.twitter.com/5L4Fo7JYuT Matt Fuller (@MEPFuller) September 28, 2023 In the first hour of the debate, DeSantis stayed above the fray as if he were the undisputed top dog onstage. Hes not. He picked it up in the second half though and scored his best moment of either debate when he cut off a going-nowhere dispute between Haley and Scott about whod accomplished more and pointed out what was, all those months ago when he was touted as a front-runner, his strength: He really did change the political culture of one of the largest swing states in the country into a conservative bastion, and under great scrutiny. Ron DeSantis brings the house down at the #GOPdebate: "I'm the only one up here who's gotten in the big fights and has delivered big victories." "People respond to leadership. I've done it while others have talked about it!" pic.twitter.com/hFkzujegzz Never Back Down (@NvrBackDown24) September 28, 2023 DeSantis also successfully rallied the stage against moderator Dana Perinos power trip of a theme question demanding the participants write down which candidate onstage theyd vote off the island. Leadership! The candidate most visibly changed from the first debateand not just because he was sporting a slight goateewas Tim Scott. Maybe it was nerves, or getting a feel for the situation, but Scott was nowhere back in August. He absorbed much feedback about that. In this debate, he was more forceful not just in his speaking but in the elbows he was throwing, too. Scott tousled briefly with DeSantis, reiterating his criticism of the Florida middle school curriculum instructing students that slaves learned useful skills in their enslavement. But he saved his dirtiest work for Haley, whom he hit for raising the gas tax as governor of South Carolina, and for the long-forgotten dust-up about expensive new curtains during her time as United Nations ambassador. The problem for Scott is that Haley is still a better debaterBring it, Tim, she said when he began going down the attack pathand his hits werent on especially meaningful stuff. The curtains episode (discussion of which may go down in the transcript as CURTAINS [CROSS-TALK] CURTAINS??) involved swanky new fabrics that were purchased during the Obama administration. Did you send them back? Scott pressed. Did you send them back?? Fight-y Tim Scott is a work in progress. But it is, finally, in progress. Elsewhere, two candidates who remain unviable because too large a chunk of the Republican electorate views them as traitors for not being very nice to Mr. Trump whiffed on some lines. Chris Christie has based his entire campaign on his ability to take it to Donald Trump directly. But he cant do it directly, since Trump isnt showing up to the debates. All he can do is point his finger at the camera. Youre ducking these things, Christie said to the absent Trump. And let me tell you whats going to happen. You keep doing that, no one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore. Here, I thought he was building up to calling Trump fuckface, or something interesting. Instead, he went to: Were going to call you Donald Duck. An agonizing payoff. Christie also had the most uncalled-for line of the night when, while inveighing against teachers unions, he noted that you have the president of the United States sleeping with a member of the teachers unions. Well, it was the most uncalled for moment of the night, until former Vice President Mike Pence, Christies fellow unviable competitor, said a few minutes later that My wife isnt a member of the teachers union, but Ive got to admit, Ive been sleeping with a teacher for 38 years. Ramaswamy, who is too annoying to poll much higher in the race, nevertheless made for a good CHINA! punching bag given his history of doing business in the country. (A win for Russia is a win for China, Haley said to him during the Ukraine portion of the evening, but I forgot you like China.) Doug Burgum, bless him, technically had the least speaking time of any candidates, but was bugging the moderators for time for almost the entirety of the debate, his voice reverberating in the cavernous glass building from his lectern on the wing. When he does speak, he gives a lightning-fast summary of the days economic geopolitics (his takeaway is that we need more American drilling!) before his time runs out. Well see if he makes the third debate. That third debate is scheduled for Nov. 8 in Miami. After Wednesdays proceedings wrapped, the Trump campaign released a statement saying the Republican National Committee should cancel it and any other debates it has planned. Tonights GOP debate was as boring and inconsequential as the first debate, and nothing that was said will change the dynamics of the primary contest being dominated by President Trump, senior adviser Chris LaCivita said, before insisting that the RNC should immediately put an end to any further primary debates so we can train our fire on Crooked Joe Biden and quit wasting time and money that could be going to evicting Biden from the White House. I dont think this debate was inconsequential. Haley will continue rising, DeSantis found some footing, and Scott showed up. But if these second-tier debates are to serve a larger purpose, they need, eventually, to identify one candidate who presents the best option for beating Trump in Iowa. Because if that doesnt happen, this truly has been a waste of time. A pivotal election is underway in Durham, with voters choosing a new mayor and filling three City Council seats this fall. There are eight people competing for mayor. Early voting in the primary runs through Oct. 7 and Primary Day is Oct. 10. The top two mayoral candidates will proceed to the general election in November, and the winner will have a two-year term. We collected questions from residents across Durham to help readers get to know the candidates. Charlitta Burruss Name: Charlitta Burruss Age: 64 Occupation: Community leader/advocate Website: None Are we paying people competitively and keeping our promises to our workers? - East Durham resident Aidil Ortiz No No. Do you have any experience that helps you understand development in Durham? How do you plan to get more affordable units in the city? - Planning commissioner Zuri Williams No, not locally but, my father was a builder and by watching what is going on now the development for Durham who was born and raised here and work is being priced out or they cant afford to live here. I would like the city to look at their own developers instead of allowing others to come to this city to do things the citizens can do and look at neighborhoods and see if ADUs and tiny homes are options and look at the safety and transportation options for the community. As Durham grows more dense, how do we get away from the classic American model of car-oriented development? Are there any policies that you support that can keep us from becoming another Atlanta or Dallas? - Downtown resident Nirav Patel First of all we will not get to the size of Atlanta or Dallas but, due to the growth and being in transportation as a driver, I would look at additional buses being added and if we could find space for a park/ride ias well. Remember a lot of people dont live in Durham that work in Durham so to limit commuting something closer would help so they can park at a lot for free, catch a bus and ride to their place of employment or a designated stop. What policies do you support for implementing safer streets and reducing car dependency locally and regionally? - Stadium Heights resident Nick Roberts I drive a bus and safer enclosed bike lanes is what I would like to see. Buses are having problems turning into various streets and sometimes the roads are too small and if possible widen. But, I am not for spending unnecessary money for things that will not work. Also after the bike lanes are improved the bikers need to respect the drivers and stay in their designated lanes. I see bikers take too many chances with traffic. More buses less cars with proper fuel emissions where we can have safer air quality. What will you do to support the mental health needs of everyday Durham residents, especially thousands of young people in our public school systems? - Hillside High School senior Isaiah Palmer I have a degree in social work and have worked with special needs students in the school system. More workers need to be hired that specializes in mental illness; to me its a special calling and everyone cant do it. People also need to be educated on the signs of mental illness so as mayor. I would like the opportunity to have a city/county wide meeting with everyone that works in the school system to see what we can do collectively to come up with a solution that will lessen stress and improve quality of life for all. In your vision for the city, what role does public education play and how does that connect to economic development, public safety and community health? - Fayetteville Street corridor resident Erika Wilkins I believe in education on all levels and being a person that deals with people on all levels daily. I often say, its a lack of knowledge and communication or disconnect. If we dont come together and treat the whole person and know that where a person mentality is very important. We are people that have different educational background and that cannot be ignored. I still believe in community events and every one needs to come to the table, have a discussion and have a task force to cover the area North, South, East and West. We already have leaders on the ground that cover these areas for nothing because of the love of where they live. Trust needs to come back to Durham and truth to know that these matters will be looked at and moved on sooner than later. On the subject of alleged Clean Water Act violations in Falls Lake and its tributaries: How did we get here and who should be held responsible? Who is going to pay for the creek restoration and environmental damage? - Southeast Durham resident Pam Andrews You know no one wants to take responsibility for this but, I think it would lie on the city/county to take care of this according to where each one is located because right now there is a safety, environmental and sanitation matter which can if it hasnt already affected citizens health. From now on the citizens have a right to know and not just at City Council meetings because a lot of people cant attend a lot of times due to various reasons. How have you seen Durham evolve in your time here and whats one thing youll have the power to change if elected? - The News & Observer Crime has risen tremendously, and I have been directed affected by it. Raises have to happen for essential workers. We have to get qualified police officers and pay them just as much as other cities are paying their officers. We have PACs which a lot of people dont know what they are about so the community needs to be better informed and educated on the resources that we have in Durham, and I would like to ask these people if they would come forward if they are really interested in the well being in Durham instead of receiving funding for work in the names of citizens that is not being done. To find polling places and full details on voting, visit the Board of Elections at dcovotes.com or 919-560-0700. Russia and Ukraine have made prolific use of cheap drones and pricier cruise and ballistic missiles. Those weapons allow both to strike much farther into areas previously considered safe from attack. The lesson is that in modern warfare, nearly everything is "targetable," a top NATO general says. The war in Ukraine is the largest conventional conflict in Europe since the end of World War II. As such, it is giving military leaders and defense analysts invaluable insights about modern warfare. One such insight has been how the proliferation of drones and long-range missiles is changing the battlefield. Indeed, the increasing use and reach of those weapons mean that there is no more "home" and "away" in wartime, according to a top NATO general. Cheap drones and expensive missiles Firefighters respond to a drone attack in Kyiv in October 2022. AP Photo/Roman Hrytsyna, File Ukraine and Russia are both using drones in a variety of roles, including surveillance and strikes. Russia has also leaned heavily on long-range missiles and drones to target Ukrainian logistical nodes, command-and-control hubs, and civilian infrastructure, often far from the frontlines. For its part, Ukraine is using Western-made long-range missiles to hit Russian military targets and using drones, some of them possibly deployed on Russian territory, to hit targets deep inside Russia. On an episode of the Royal United Services Institute's War in Space podcast last month, Air Marshal Johnny Stringer, deputy commander of NATO's Allied Air Command, said the use of relatively cheap drones and long-range missiles in Ukraine shows how those weapons could be a major threat to NATO forces. With those weapons available in larger numbers, many military bases and other assets are now within easier reach of an enemy force. "If you are seeking to protect what you've got, those notions of 'home' and 'away' and safe rear areas, etc., are no longer there, if indeed they have been for many years now," Stringer said. "So whether it is long-range cruise missiles, whether it's ballistic missiles, whether it's long-ranged attack drones, pretty much anything that would traditionally have been thought of as being a long way away from the battlefield and safe, I think we're now seeing is very much targetable." Stringer also highlighted the value of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, or ISR, and the need for an agile targeting cycle that can find, fix, and finish targets before they move. The war has shown that Russia's air force lacks the dynamic targeting capability needed to strike mobile targets with any reliability. "Looking at the Russian targeting cycle, it has basically been shown to be consistently too long, too involved, [and] nowhere near agile enough," Stringer said. "So they've hit stuff that was there a few hours ago but is no longer there." Stringer and other Western officials have said that inability to hit targets in a timely fashion is part of the reason the Kremlin has adopted a strategy of using long-range fires against urban centers and critical civilian infrastructure. Effective ISR and an efficient targeting process are necessary for a military to understand the battlefield and be able to operate on it. "If you don't generate understanding at the necessary level and at the necessary speed, then stand by to fail," Stringer said. US preparations US airmen prepare an MQ-9 Reaper for take off on Wyoming highway during agile combat employment training in April. US Air National Guard/Master Sgt. Phil Speck In recent decades, the US military has been at the tip of the spear when it came to incorporating new technology and to developing novel tactics, techniques, and procedures with which to use it. The US military isn't doing the fighting in Ukraine, but it has been work to adopt to many of the innovations in use there and to incorporate other lessons being learned in that war. The US Air Force has been preparing for the threat Stringer described through Agile Combat Employment, or ACE, which entails using new and existing procedures, like Forward Arming and Refueling Points, to facilitate the deployment of small numbers of aircraft and personnel to bases and outposts across the battlespace to increase their survivability and complicate the enemy's targeting calculus. To be sure, when the US military started working on these concepts, the threat of cheap attack drones wasn't so prevalent, but their use in Ukraine has only added urgency to the Pentagon's efforts to ensure its forces can stay in the fight during a war against a well-armed adversary. Stavros Atlamazoglou is a defense journalist specializing in special operations and Hellenic Army veteran (national service with the 575th Marine Battalion and Army HQ). He has a B.A. from the Johns Hopkins University, an M.A. in strategy, cybersecurity, and intelligence from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, and is currently pursuing a Juris Doctor degree from Boston College Law School. Read the original article on Business Insider Cherryville's new mural honoring Darin and Brooke Aldridge is located at the Cherryville Mini Park. The city of Cherryville commissioned an artist to paint a mural celebrating Cherryville locals Darin and Brooke Aldridge. On Oct. 5, the city plans to celebrate this mural in a big way, according to Cherryvilles downtown director David Day. The Aldridges have performed on the Grand Ole Opry stage more than 50 times and were recently named Bluegrass Artists of the Year at the Absolutely Gospel Awards in Nashville, according to a press release from Day. Both of the Aldridges are from North Carolina, but Darin Aldridge actually spent most of his childhood in Cherryville, according to the release. The muralist behind the mural, Scott Nurkin, has been creating murals celebrating North Carolina musicians for more than a decade. Over 10 years ago, Nurkin created his first mural, featuring several of his favorite North Carolina musicians in Chapel Hill, according to his website. After the initial mural, Nurkins project expanded into the North Carolina Musicians Mural Trail. In most cases, he now paints the murals in the hometowns of the musicians and has murals in Shelby, Raleigh, and several other cities around the state. The mural trail is even recognized by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Muralist Scott Nurkin working on the new mural in the summer of 2023. More than a year ago, Cherryville City Council decided to honor the Aldridges with a mural and added funding to the budget to commission Nurkin, Day said. This summer, that vision came to life, and Nurkin got to work on the mural in mid July, according to Day. In October, the Aldridges will help the city celebrate the completion of this mural with a free concert. According to Day, there will be food trucks, fun, and more at the concert, which is set to take place from 6-8 p.m. at Cherryvilles mini park, where the mural is located. The mini park is located at 219 E. Main St. in Cherryville. This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: Cherryville to celebrate completion of new mural with a free concert A migrant staying at the Gage Park field house outside the building on Aug. 24, 2023. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune) An intruder broke into a migrant shelter in Gage Park Thursday morning, according to Chicago police and Ald. Raymond Lopez, 15th. Police responded to the Gage Park field house in the 2400 block of West 55th Street around 2:20 a.m. Thursday. The person entered the womens dormitory but did not make contact with anyone, Lopez wrote in an email statement. Advertisement A 37-year-old female who was at the field house saw a man, possibly with a gun, in the facility pointing his finger at people inside, according to police. The intruder fled the field house on foot, police said. No gun was found at the scene, and no injuries were reported, police said. Advertisement Officers have not been able to find anyone matching the description of the intruder, Lopez said in the email. Police will visit the field house later today to do a security check. The field house became temporary housing for about 300 migrants to the city at the beginning of July. The temporary shelter initially housed single men but has since expanded to include a womens dormitory. Lopez said in the statement that his office has been in contact with the mayor and the district police commander to review safety procedures at the shelter, hoping to prevent future break-ins. I have conveyed to Mayor Brandon Johnson that the safety of the migrant asylum-seekers and the surrounding community must be our utmost priority, Lopez said. I have asked our partners to hold shelter management and private security agencies to drill this philosophy deep into their daily mission. A breach of this caliber could have ended in a much worse scenario. Thankfully, that is not the case today. As Congress nears the eleventh hour in its 2024 budget negotiations, a long-standing housing initiative up for renewal in the legislation is sparking concern among advocates who say the program keeps thousands of Chicagoans from getting housing assistance every year. Called Moving to Work, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development program allows CHA and other public housing authorities to use money allocated for housing vouchers and public housing for other purposes, such as providing free meals to seniors and youth and helping residents find jobs. Set to expire in 2028, the program would be extended another 15 years, through 2043, under a proposal before the Senate Committee on Appropriations, despite objections from housing advocates who say greater oversight is needed for agencies in the program, including CHA. Chicago is a very extreme example, but its a really important example of a housing authority and how they are using their MTW flexibilities not necessarily to benefit the residents, said Deborah Thrope, deputy director of the National Housing Law Project. Established in 1996, Moving to Work is intended to give housing authorities flexibility in how they meet local housing needs and to help residents find work and become self-sufficient. But housing advocates say the agencies end up diverting millions of dollars every year that could be used to get residents off voucher waitlists and build much-needed public housing. Last year, CHA redirected an estimated $74 million in federal voucher dollars to other uses through the program, keeping more than 6,000 families from getting off the waitlist, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a Washington, D.C.-based think tank focused on reducing poverty. CHA is among the original 39 public housing agencies to adopt Moving to Work. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities estimates more than 55,000 families across those agencies were left without vouchers in 2022 as a result of the program. While CHA did not comment directly on the centers findings, CHA CEO Tracey Scott said the agencys participation in Moving to Work is critical to meeting the citys housing needs, noting that HUD provides funding for housing but not services to support residents. We are talking about people and affecting peoples lives, said Scott, who is president of the MTW Collaborative, a nonprofit membership organization that advocates for Moving to Work. MTW is in Chicagos DNA. Of CHAs $1.2 billion budget for 2022, more than $916 million was composed of Moving to Work funds. The majority, $575.4 million, was used to fund the voucher program, while $159.3 million went toward property and asset management and $53.6 million was spent on capital repairs and improvements. About $76.7 million was spent on personnel and $28.6 million on paying down debt. Another $22.7 million was budgeted for resident services, though additional expenses for those services were built into other parts of the budget, so the actual amount was higher, CHA said. Since 2020, CHA has used its funding flexibility under Moving to Work to employ around 6,000 youth during the summer, fund over 500 college scholarships for residents, provide more than 580,000 and 170,000 meals for seniors and youth, respectively, and help more than 150 families purchase a home. It has also used the funds to hire service coordinators for 49 senior buildings, support the citys homeless prevention programs, develop new CHA housing and improve thousands of existing units, according to the agency. CHA did not provide a detailed breakdown of where the funds go, but said many of the programs are funded through the resident services line item, which has ranged from more than $35 million to more than $41 million per year in recent years. Thousands wait for vouchers The Housing Choice Voucher Program, the primary federal housing voucher program, formerly known as Section 8, allows public housing authorities to provide subsidies to low-income residents who find housing in the private market. Most of the vouchers are required to go to families who make no more than 50% of the area median income, which for a family of four in Chicago is $53,900, according to CHA. Residents with vouchers from CHA pay 30%-40% of their income toward rent and utilities, and CHA covers the rest. But with 25,200 people on the waitlist, it can take years, even decades, to get a voucher. Brittany King, 33, was offered a voucher in 2015 after a five-year wait but was unable to find a place to live in the time CHA gave her to use the voucher. Now, the disability rights advocate and mother of a 4-year-old has been on the waitlist for another five years. King lives in Lincoln Park, receiving housing through the Anixter Center, an organization that supports people with disabilities. She pays $194 in monthly rent, which is 30% of her monthly income. While she appreciates the intent of the Moving to Work program, King said she would prefer all the funding be used toward housing people. Scholarships are important, however, housing is a basic necessity, King said. The Chicago Housing Authority should stand for housing people, and at this time, it does not seem as though that is the case. CHA provides vouchers to 41,000 households more than 92,000 people according to its fiscal year 2023 budget book. About 2,400 families leave the voucher program every year, opening up spots for people on the waitlist. Thousands more families end up coming off the waitlist every year for reasons such as no longer being eligible or failing to respond when their name comes up, the agency said. When CHA last opened the waitlist in 2014 for four weeks, the agency received 280,000 applications, 70,000 of which were approved for the waitlist. CHA said it has other types of voucher and public housing waitlists that are always open. While CHA said it serves Chicagoans in other ways through the funding deregulation, the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities found in 2021 that about 800 families received assistance through the alternative programs in Chicago, compared with thousands of families who didnt receive housing vouchers. Generally, the ways that this money is used tends to be things that are less effective at helping the lowest-income families than vouchers are, said Will Fischer, director of housing policy and research at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. CHA argues it has been able to serve more families, not fewer, over the years because of its participation in Moving to Work. In 2022, the agency served 63,449 families through its public housing and Housing Choice Voucher programs compared with 49,921 in 1999. Scott also takes issue with criticism from housing advocates that CHA is not building sufficient housing. According to a HUD document from January 2022, CHA tops the list of public housing authorities with the most capacity to build additional units under the Faircloth Amendment, a federal law that restricts agencies ability to own and operate public housing. With more than 19,000 units still to build, CHA is more than 7,000 units higher than the next agency on the list, as of September 2021. Scott said 3,500 new mixed-income housing units have been built in Chicago since 2019, with 1,700 units currently under construction, something she said can be accomplished because of the agencys flexibility under its Moving to Work status. The complaints about the Moving to Work program are not new. The Tribune reported in 2017 on a Center for Tax and Budget Accountability study that showed CHA had paid off all its debt, overfunded its pension plan and stashed away hundreds of millions of dollars in reserves while it failed to rebuild thousands of demolished public housing units, thanks to the flexibility offered through Moving to Work. CHA pushed back against the findings in the report, according to the Tribune article. Advocates petition Congress The Housing Justice Network, a group of Chicago-based and national advocacy and legal organizations that work with the National Housing Law Project, sent a letter Aug. 21 to the Senate Committee on Appropriations calling for a negotiation of the Moving to Work contracts to allow for more oversight. Chicago housing advocates asked Sen. Dick Durbins office to propose a budget amendment that would restore language stating the Moving to Work program for the original 39 agencies would last through 2028 until the issue can be discussed further. Durbins office did not respond to a request for comment. Sen. Patty Murray, chair of the committee, and Sen. Susan Collins, a ranking member, also did not respond. The Moving to Work contracts were last renewed by Congress in 2016, and dozens more public housing authorities have been added to the program since its inception. Emily Coffey, director of equitable community development and housing at the Chicago Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights, one of the Housing Justice Network members, said HUD has added more guardrails for the dozens of public housing authorities that have joined the program and thinks Congress should allow HUD to do this for the original 39 agencies. I think that CHA needs oversight, Coffey said. The regulations do exist for a reason. Noelle Porter, director of government affairs for the National Housing Law Project, said it is proving difficult to amend the legislation. House Republicans have made it impossible for advocates to engage in good faith negotiations over final aspects of the bill, Porter said, adding she hopes Congress might be able to make a change in the final days of negotiations. In an emailed statement Wednesday, a HUD spokesperson said, As part of our usual policy development process, HUD has and will continue to take into consideration the input of public housing authorities and its stakeholders to ensure the best outcomes for residents as well as housing authorities in the implementation of its public housing programs. The MTW Collaborative rejects the idea of the 39 original agencies being subjected to the same restrictions as newer ones, saying those agencies have been severely limited in their ability to respond to community needs, according to a May 2023 paper sent to Congress by the collaborative. The paper cites research from the Urban Institute finding Moving to Work agencies serve more low-income families than agencies not part of the program. After joining, public housing authorities receive significantly more HUD funding, an estimated 11% increase, serving an estimated 10% increase in households, according to the study. Still, some advocates say they are not convinced the benefits outweigh the negatives. If the contracts are extended, Fischer of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities said the patterns he has seen so far would continue. It would mean a lot of people who are struggling to afford housing would continue to not get assistance that they could be getting, he said. ekane@chicagotribune.com An intruder broke into a migrant shelter in Gage Park Thursday morning, according to Chicago police and Ald. Raymond Lopez, 15th. Police responded to the Gage Park field house in the 2400 block of West 55th Street around 2:20 a.m. Thursday. The person entered the womens dormitory but did not make contact with anyone, Lopez wrote in an email statement. A 37-year-old female who was at the field house saw a man, possibly with a gun, in the facility pointing his finger at people inside, according to police. The intruder fled the field house on foot, police said. No gun was found at the scene, and no injuries were reported, police said. Officers have not been able to find anyone matching the description of the intruder, Lopez said in the email. Police will visit the field house later today to do a security check. The field house became temporary housing for about 300 migrants to the city at the beginning of July. The temporary shelter initially housed single men but has since expanded to include a womens dormitory. Lopez said in the statement that his office has been in contact with the mayor and the district police commander to review safety procedures at the shelter, hoping to prevent future break-ins. I have conveyed to Mayor Brandon Johnson that the safety of the migrant asylum-seekers and the surrounding community must be our utmost priority, Lopez said. I have asked our partners to hold shelter management and private security agencies to drill this philosophy deep into their daily mission. A breach of this caliber could have ended in a much worse scenario. Thankfully, that is not the case today. Nearly four months into her tenure as CEO of Xthe everything app that has to keep reminding users that it used to be a social network called TwitterLinda Yaccarino cant seem to fully explain what it is shes doing there. This week, the former NBCUniversal advertising chief made the rounds in a sphere where, one would assume, shes long been comfortable: the mainstream media. On Wednesday, the Financial Times published a first-of-its-kind profile of Yaccarinos X tenure, covering her working relationship with the ever-controversial owner who appointed her as CEO, Elon Musk . That same day, she appeared at Vox Medias Code Conference as the featured speaker, sitting down for a conversation with CNBCs Julia Boorstin about the future of X. Among other things, both media appearances made something pretty clearthat she often doesnt know much about the decisions Musk makes and is frequently unable to explain them when pressed. The FT piece noted that Yaccarino seemed to be caught unawares when reporter Hannah Murphy asked her about Musks habit of running X entirely through his phone (her response: Maybe I should take a note of what youve just said!); that she had no knowledge of Musks November 2022 pledge to establish a content moderation council with widely diverse viewpoints, despite having stated previously that shed closely followed the Twitter-takeover saga (That is news to me); and that Yaccarino promised X was expanding the safety and election teams, even as the Information reported later on Wednesday that Musk was cutting half of the companys global election integrity group, including its leader. As for the Code Conference, there was pre-interview chatter that Yaccarino might back out because of a same-day addition to the roster: Yoel Roth, the former head of Twitters trust and safety department and an initial Musk supporter whod left the company after clashing with the new Chief Twitand was forced to flee his home after Musk baselessly implied on Twitter that Roth is a pedophile. (An Axios reporter tweeted that the conference had sandbagged Yaccarino by booking Roth, drawing a rebuke from conference host Kara Swisher, who said the CEO and her PR person knew all day and were also offered to go on before [Roth] too. I also sent a text to her and everyone involved early this morning.) After Roths appearance, Yaccarino gave an interview that was described afterward by attendees as a dumpster fire and car crash, according to reporters from Insider: She didnt seem to know about Musks stated plans to charge X users for platform access (and asked Boorstin to repeat her question on the subject), offered inconsistent numbers regarding Xs user count, and responded to a question about an uptick of antisemitic posts on X by stating everybody deserves to speak their opinion and claiming she had a flight to catch. Further, because shed requested beforehand that the audience not be allowed to ask her any questions, the only interaction she had with the crowd was a rhetorical question of who wouldnt want to work under Elon Musk?spurring several viewers to raise their hands. Everybody deserves to speak their opinion, @lindayaX says after being asked about ADL complaints about Twitter/X antisemitism. Then she looks at her watch and says she has to catch a flight. You literally cant make this stuff up. pic.twitter.com/wCQe9FRotz Ben Bergman (@thebenbergman) September 28, 2023 You get the picture: Wednesday, perhaps, was not the best moment in Linda Yaccarinos oft-celebrated career. But, far from serving as an outlier or unexpected incident, the media appearances appeared to cement the one consistent motif of Yaccarinos leadership at Xthat her willingness to work with and acquiesce to Elon Musks whims and spur-of-the-moment decisions seems to lead more often to her humiliation than to anything else. Intrepid followers of the Twitter 2.0 era have known this to be the case from jump. As was reported back in May, Yaccarino had been prepping for an important NBC upfronts presentation when Musk suddenly tweeted about her upcoming Twitter gig, forcing her to scramble and contain the fallout. Things didnt improve much following that ignominious kickoff. Yaccarino has been able to make some substantive changes at the platformrenegotiating with software vendors whom Musk had neglected to pay, adopting a less troll-y approach to Twitters interactions with the press, reviving an advertising council at the company, speaking with clients whod pulled back their Twitter-ad spending thanks to Musks embrace of hate speechbut its apparent Musk is mostly running the show, no matter how much Yaccarino may chafe at being referred to by outsiders as CEO in name only. In a notorious instance, the Anti-Defamation Leagues CEO tweeted in August about having a very frank + productive conversation with Yaccarino about antisemitism on X, which was almost immediately followed up by Musks boosting of white supremacists attacks on the organization as well as his (still-unrealized) threat to sue the ADL. Yaccarino, who has better relationships with advertisers than Musk and was brought in to help recover Xs lost ad revenue, hasnt been able to quell concerns about whether ads will be placed next to bigoted postssomething thats still happening rather frequently, as Media Matters has documented. And she hardly appears to have the ability to defend X or Musk in a capable manner: When Yaccarino shared a new video advertisement last week promoting X as an everything app, she had to delete the video and reupload a new version after users pointed out that the scrolling feed used in the clip featured quite a few posts criticizing Musk. The blunt truth is, not many seem to take Yaccarino seriouslynot Musk, not his fans, not any of Xs remaining users (whatever their actual number). After her Twitter role was announced in May, Musks conservative acolytes cited her prior World Economic Forum experience to dismiss her as a globalist who was about to kill off their new favorite platform . When Yaccarino sat down for a CNBC interview in August, her statement that 99.9 percent of X posts are healthy assured basically no one. And her chipper posts about Xs bright future, set against a backdrop of escalating hate speech, have earned her only more public mockery. In total fairness: Its never been easy to be a prominent woman in business in any sector, forget the notoriously misogynistic world of Silicon Valley, and its very likely that few people could handle working directly with an impulsive Elon Musk in overseeing a still-powerful information network. But no one could fairly say that Yaccarino didnt realize what she was getting into with X, not even Yaccarino herself. And considering the added prominence afforded by her Musk association and the intense scrutiny of X/Twitters new era, it may well be that this is what ultimately defines her long, once-respected career. UK Chief of Defence Staff, Admiral Tony Radakin , who is on a visit to Kyiv, said that strikes on the Russian Black Sea Fleet are an example of how Ukraine is holding the initiative. Source: Radio Liberty Quote: "We discussed the new military assistance commitments made in Ramstein last week that will help strengthen and sustain Ukraine's resilience through the winter and beyond. The recent strikes on the Black Sea Fleet are another example of how Ukraine is holding the initiative. Putin has lost control of the war he started. This visit, along with my visits over the summer, have reinforced my belief that Ukraine will win. The UK will stand with them every step of the way." Details: On 28 September, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valerii Zaluzhnyi met with Chief of the UK Defence Staff Admiral Tony Radakin. The latter said they discussed the situation at the front line and the current needs of the Ukrainian army. Background: On 22 September, several explosions thundered in the occupied city of Sevastopol. The Russian-appointed "governor" of Sevastopol, Mikhail Razvozhayev, reported a missile attack on the headquarters of the Russian Black Sea Fleet. Satellite images and video show that there were several hits. Chief of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, Kyrylo Budanov, said the strike that occurred on 22 September resulted in deaths and injuries among the Russian military leadership. The invaders had to dismantle the building of the Russian Black Sea Fleet headquarters in Sevastopol via a "controlled explosion". The Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that 34 Russian officers were killed in the attack on the headquarters of Russias Black Sea Fleet in occupied Sevastopol. In addition, on 20 September, the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported a "successful strike" on the Black Sea Fleet command post of the Russian military near the settlements of Verkhniosadove. 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! Many military families will soon see a large and welcome decrease in their child care fees in some cases, a cut of more than 40%, according to Military Times calculations. The lower rates will especially benefit those in the lower income categories. As before, the fees are based on total family income, to include spouse income and other sources. For many families, the bigger decreases come because they will move into a lower fee category. Defense officials have collapsed the number of fee categories from 14 to 11, with higher income levels for each category. It affects the amount of money parents pay for full-time child care in child development centers, as well as other programs such as fee assistance programs for child care in the civilian community. Information on new fees for school-age child care programs was not available. The services and DoD will provide more information later this year about the guidance and policies surrounding the new fees in full-time and part-time programs. The services are required to implement the new fees by January. Military child care has long been recognized by families as safe, high-quality care with many stringent requirements focusing on the overall development of the child. In some areas, there are long waiting lists for military child care, and there have been efforts over the past decade to build more centers, and to expand affordable options for child care in the civilian community. For those in the lowest income category, the weekly child care fee has decreased from $58 to $54, a difference of $4. But the income cap in Category 1 has increased from $30,810 to $45,000, so more people will be in that lowest category and eligible for lower fees. Thus, a service member with a total family income of $45,000 will be paying $54 a week, compared to $82 a week in the current higher income category. Thats a savings of $28 a week, a 34% drop. Military family advocates applaud these reductions. DoD gets it. The services get it. This is a readiness issue, said Kelly Hruska, government relations director for the National Military Family Association. The changes will affect every family differently, and based on Military Times calculations of a few income levels, the percentages are wide ranging. The highest income category is now $160,001 and above, where service members will be paying $215 a week. Thats a 2% increase over what those in the highest income category were paying previously. The reductions in basic fees are designed to reduce the burden on lower income military families, and to meet the intent of an executive order signed in April by President Joe Biden that directs DoD to improve the affordability of child care on military installations. DoD subsidizes the cost of child care. Changes to the fee policy will ensure that DoD can continue to invest in our service members by providing quality, affordable child care through both installation-based programs and community-based fee assistance, said Grier Martin, acting assistant secretary of defense for manpower and reserve affairs, in a news release. Were committed to addressing the increased demand and challenges for this critical issue which directly impacts the readiness of the total force. Here are some additional examples of the reductions, calculated by Military Times and confirmed by DoD: Annual Total Family Income Current weekly full-time child care fee New weekly fee % change $55,000 $102 $61 -40% $65,000 $121 $74 -39% $90,000 $143 $104 -27% $115,000 $154 $138 -10% Source: Military Times calculations, based on DoD documents Military families should check with their child development centers or school-age care program to find out how the changes will affect their individual costs. The fees for military child care are the same regardless of the childs age. A parent pays the same fee for an infant that theyd pay for a 3-year-old, for example, unlike most child care in the civilian community. Civilian costs vary widely across the country, but, as one example, the weekly charge for infant full-time care in Fairfax County, Virginia, ranged between $403 to $512, according to 2022 numbers on the countys website. The new military rates also benefit parents who use the child care fee assistance programs, which are offered by the services to help pay for the cost of child care in the community under certain circumstances. The fee assistance programs are tied to the total family income categories. The fee assistance subsidy, paid to eligible child care providers, is based on the difference between what the service member would pay in the applicable DoD total family income category, and the community-based child care providers fee, within limits. DoD has also increased the provider rate cap in the fee assistance program from $1,700 per month, per child to $1,800 per month, per child. California has declined to join countries as varied as England, the Philippines and the Dominican Republic, along with states across the United States, in banning marriage before age 18 as called for under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Instead, as The Sacramento Bee reported recently, California law continues to allow children of any age to marry. More than 8,000 children in California are married each year, according to U.S. census data. Opinion Sex with a child under age 18 is a crime in California unless the adult marries the child first. Child marriage is not a gender-neutral problem. Nearly all underage marriage in the U.S. involves girls wed to adult men. And its not a maturity problem. Teens do not wake up on their 18th birthday with newfound maturity. Rather, they wake up with the rights of adulthood that are crucial to avoid or escape a forced marriage: leaving home, entering a domestic violence shelter, retaining an attorney and independently bringing a legal action. Marriage for a minor who does not yet have these rights creates a horrible legal trap, even for those who are brave enough to reach out to Unchained At Last, the nonprofit organization I lead to combat forced and child marriage in the U.S. If we help a minor escape, we could face criminal charges. Indeed, child marriage should be considered a form of forced marriage, which is a form of modern slavery. Child marriage also is recognized as a human rights abuse; it destroys nearly every aspect of an American girls life, including her sexual and reproductive rights. The simple solution is legislation that nine (soon to be 10) U.S. states have passed in recent years, with bipartisan support, to make the marriage age 18 with no exceptions. Such legislation costs nothing and harms no one except child rapists. I am a forced marriage survivor-turned-activist who is on the front lines of this fight, helping hundreds of individuals escape forced marriage. Banning child marriage in no way endangers reproductive rights. Both the U.S. and California supreme courts have noted that states should treat minors abortion differently from minors marriage because abortion is time sensitive while marriage is not. Besides, the California constitution explicitly guarantees reproductive freedom, as does the state Reproductive Privacy Act. While marriage is a fundamental right protected by the 14th Amendment, the U.S. Supreme Court has noted that states may (and do) limit it by age. In fact, California is one of only six states that do not impose a minimum age for marriage, and even California requires judicial approval for marriage before age 18. Requiring parental consent to child marriage in no way protects children from forced marriage. When someone is forced to wed, their own parents almost always play a crucial role in facilitating it. Judicial review does not help either: It puts the onus on a terrified child to figure out a safe way to communicate their predicament to the judge. No good reason exists for a child to marry. A girl in an abusive home can get resources that do not require her to find a husband. A teen who is ready for legal independence can seek emancipation. Having a baby out of wedlock is legal and has been documented to be healthier than the alternative. A pregnant teen who marries is more likely to suffer economic deprivation and instability than a pregnant teen who stays single. The world cannot keep its promise to end child marriage by year 2030 if California continues to hold up progress. California lawmakers must pass legislation and finally get on the right side of history. Fraidy Reiss, a Los Angeles native, is a forced marriage survivor turned activist. She is the founder and executive director of Unchained At Last, a survivor-led nonprofit working to end forced and child marriage in the U.S. (Bloomberg) -- Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu missed a key meeting attended by President Xi Jinping , bolstering reports hes being investigated for corruption and has been removed from his role. Most Read from Bloomberg Li, who also holds the title of state councilor, wasnt among the participants of a Politburo study session on Wednesday, according to video footage of the gathering on state broadcaster China Central Television. While Chinas five state councilors dont always attend the typically monthly sessions of the Communist Partys top-decision making body, three others in that role were present. Li attended a similar meeting on June 30. Qin Gang, who has kept his state councilor status after being removed as foreign minister in July without explanation, was also absent from Wednesdays meeting, where Xi urged officials to safeguard national security as China opens to the outside world. Lis absence marked the first time hes missed an event he was expected to attend since US officials earlier this month said they had intelligence indicating hed been removed from his post. Reuters reported earlier that Li is under an investigation over procurement of military equipment. China hasnt commented on the former aerospace engineers status but authorities are probing the procurement department for a date range overlapping with Lis tenure as its head. The defense chief hasnt been seen in public since Aug. 29, adding to signs of turbulence in Xis government less than a year into his third term. Thats been a concern for investors already worried about Chinas economic slowdown, volatile relationship with the US and a growing government focus on national security. Chinas Defense Ministry said Thursday it would hold its annual Xiangshan Forum on Oct. 29-31. Li would normally be expected to attend the gathering of military officials from dozens of other nations, though whether he will this year is unclear. The Defense Ministry didnt respond to a request for comment. As defense minister, Lis job largely involves liaising with foreign militaries. The 65-year-old was sanctioned by Washington in 2018 for allegedly aiding the transfer of Russian weapons to China. Those sanctions have prevented Li from meeting US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, with China making their removal a condition for any such exchange. Lis disappearance and Qins ouster along with the replacement of the two most senior leaders in the Peoples Liberation Armys Rocket Force overseeing Chinas nuclear arsenal have been fodder for Xis critics. President Xis cabinet lineup is now resembling Agatha Christies novel And Then There Were None, the US ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emanuel, wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. (Updates with China announcing dates for military forum.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. BEIJING (Reuters) - China and Germany will co-host a third financial dialogue in Germany on Oct. 1, the Chinese foreign ministry said on Thursday, resuming high-level talks that had stalled for several years due to COVID-19. Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng will co-chair the dialogue with German Finance Minister Christian Lindner, ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a regular news conference. In the last round of talks in January 2019, China and Germany signed agreements to strengthen coordination in banking, finance and capital markets, and pledged to further open market access and deepen cooperation to broaden economic ties. Since then, the European Union, including Germany, has expressed concerns about being too economically dependent on China. Last week, Germany said it was planning to force telecoms operators to slash the use of equipment from Huawei and ZTE in their 5G networks after a review highlighted an over-reliance on these Chinese suppliers. (Reporting by Antoni Slodkowski; writing by Ryan Woo; Editing by Himani Sarkar) Chicago police Officer Ruben Reynoso, left, and Sgt. Christopher Liakopoulos enter the Leighton Criminal Court Building in Chicago to hear the verdict in their case on Sept. 28, 2023. They were found not guilty of aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct after an on-duty shooting in the Pilsen neighborhood in July 2022. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune) A judge on Thursday found two Chicago police officers not guilty of unjustifiably shooting an unarmed man in Pilsen in July 2022. Cook County Judge Lawrence Flood handed down the verdict in front of a courtroom packed with police and other supporters of the officers just days before he is set to retire on Saturday. Advertisement I find both officers acted within reason in firing their weapons under these particular circumstances, Flood said. Once a rare occurrence, the case is among a number of trials in recent years involving charges brought against police officers alleging unjustified use of force in on-duty incidents. Advertisement Despite winning a historic guilty verdict from a jury against former Chicago police Officer Jason Van Dyke in the killing of 17-year-old Laquan McDonald in 2018, the Cook County states attorneys office has lost a number of subsequent cases against officers that mostly went before judges in bench trials. Christopher Liakopoulos, 44, and Ruben Reynoso, 43, were charged with two counts of aggravated battery with a firearm and two counts of official misconduct, all felonies. Liakopoulos has been with the department since 2001 and Reynoso since 2003. Though defense attorneys for the officers told reporters the case should never have been charged, States Attorney Kim Foxx said the state has an obligation to bring charges against those who break the law, including police officers. Part of the conversations that weve been having, not just in Cook County but across the country over the last several years has been about that lack of accountability, Foxx said, speaking at the Leighton Criminal Court Building after the acquittal. Cook County prosecutors alleged that Liakopoulos and Reynoso were not in danger and had no reason to fear for their lives when they fired on Miguel Medina, a now 24-year-old Addison man who was wounded in the shooting in the 1000 block of West 18th Street around 7 a.m. on July 22, 2022. Medina was unarmed, though he was with a teen who had a gun and subsequently shot at the officers after Medina was shot, prosecutors said. Video released by COPA shows the incident from which two Chicago police officers have been charged with felonies after a shooting in Pilsen on July 22, 2022. (Civilian Office of Police Accountability) Thursdays verdict was met with loud claps in the courtroom as sheriff deputies motioned for people to be quiet, with some gasps and tears from observers. The officers shook hands with their attorneys and hugged lines of supporters. I did not find Mr. Medina a credible witness, Flood said as he delivered the verdict. Advertisement In two days of testimony in the bench trial, prosecutors showed surveillance video that they said depicted the officers firing at Medina while he raised a hand to them, with his other hand holding a wine bottle. They proffered department reports in which the officers lied, saying they were fired upon first, prosecutors alleged. Defense attorneys, though, argued that Medina and the teen approached the officers wearing masks in a coordinated ambush. The victim in todays case was unarmed, and when the defendants fired at that unarmed victim with his hands in the air as he turned away, that shooting was unjustified, said Assistant States Attorney Alyssa Janicki during opening arguments last week. Flood said that events leading up to the shooting that the officers were not aware of when they opened fire such as photographs on social media of Medina with the gun offered context for the situation that later unfolded. The officers, investigators with the major accidents squad, were driving to the police academy when Medina and the group he was with caught their attention, prosecutors said. In an unmarked sedan, the officers passed the group and then slowly reversed back toward them. Medina testified that he thought the car carried gang members. He said he and the teen discussed whether they should approach the car, before they ultimately decided to walk toward it. Surveillance video shows Medina putting one hand up, with the wine bottle in the other, before he was shot and fell to the ground. Advertisement Cook County States Attorney Kim Foxx, right, talks to reporters in the Leighton Criminal Court Building in Chicago on Sept. 28, 2023, after Chicago police Officer Ruben Reynoso and Sgt. Christopher Liakopoulos were found not guilty of aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct after an on-duty shooting in the Pilsen neighborhood in July 2022. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune) Prosecutors argued that Medina realized the officers werent a threat and put his hand up in a wave to indicate he likewise wasnt a threat. They said the teen who later exchanged gunfire with the officers turned to run away as officers fired the first shots, per the video. The officers attorneys argued that the group was obsessed with guns, and contended that Medina originally carried the gun, then passed it to the teen right before the shooting. They were faced with a deadly threat, and their actions were a reasonable use of deadly force, said attorney Tim Grace during opening arguments. While explaining his decision, Flood said it was impossible to know why Medina raised his hand, and said the wine bottle and cellphone in his other hand appeared in the video like dark objects. All of this occurs very quickly, he said. The department had relieved Liakopoulos and Reynoso of their police powers, but the officers attorneys said they hope to be reinstated. Advertisement Afternoon Briefing Weekdays Chicago Tribune editors' top story picks, delivered to your inbox each afternoon. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy > Im amazed at the unbelievable tone deafness of the Cook County states attorneys office to not understand the plight of Chicago police officers, what they are dealing with every single day on the streets, said Grace, Liakopoulos attorney. Foxx said that her office did not bring the charges lightly but said they do not have to excuse behavior that runs afoul of the law. She said it is non-coincidental that the officers chose to go before a judge rather than a jury of their peers. Another Chicago police officer was acquitted by a judge in June after he was accused of pinning down a 14-year-old in Park Ridge. Last month, prosecutors dropped charges against an officer who was accused of battering a woman at North Avenue Beach in an on-duty incident. In January, a judge found a Chicago police lieutenant not guilty after he stood trial on accusations that he shoved a flashlight between a clothed teens buttocks during an arrest. Months earlier, in November, Chicago police Officer Melvina Bogard was acquitted by a judge after prosecutors charged her with aggravated battery and official misconduct in connection with a shooting at the Grand Red Line stop in 2020. Advertisement mabuckley@chicagotribune.com (This Sep. 28 story has been corrected to say that Chow is bishop, not archbishop, in paragraphs 1 and 2) By Philip Pullella VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - The overture Pope Francis made to China earlier this month while he was in Mongolia was "well received" by Beijing's communist government, which has given a mainland bishop permission to visit Hong Kong, the bishop of Hong Kong said on Thursday. Bishop Stephen Chow , who will be made a cardinal on Saturday, also told Reuters in an interview that he hopes his new rank will help him improve relations between the Vatican and Beijing, which have been strained recently. In the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar on Sept. 3, the pope sent greetings to China, calling its citizens a "noble" people and asking Catholics in China to be "good Christians and good citizens". When he made the unscripted comments, Francis called up Chow and his predecessor as bishop of Hong Kong, Cardinal John Tong Hon, to flank him as he spoke. "I was touched and I know the Holy Father was playing hard to get the message across to China. I was told later from some reliable source that his message was well received in China, even in the government," Chow said. Chow, Hong Kong's top Catholic cleric, in April made the first visit to the Chinese capital by a bishop of the former British colony, which has 600,000 Catholics, in nearly 30 years. "I think we have built up some type of relationships, some friendships," Chow said, speaking of his April visit "I have invited bishop (Joseph) Li Shan, the bishop of Beijing to come down to Hong Kong. I think they are really considering it very seriously so hopefully this will happen," Chow said. Asked if Li had received permission to travel, Chow said "He has, he has." Asked if Li would be coming, Chow said "I think this has to be finalised," but he repeated that Li had received permission. ACCORD VIOLATED Beijing has been following a policy of "Sinicisation" of religion, trying to root out foreign influences and enforce obedience to the Communist Party. There are an estimated 10-12 million Catholics in China. A landmark 2018 agreement between the Vatican and China on the appointment of bishops has been tenuous at best, with the Vatican complaining that Beijing has violated it several times. Conservatives in the Church have accused the Vatican of selling out to the communist government by making the deal, which has been renewed twice. The Vatican says an imperfect deal is better than no dialogue at all. In the interview, Chow said the Hong Kong Church has a mission to be a "bridging Church" between the West and China. "So, as cardinal I hope that I will have a chance to be able to meet with a different level of people in mainland China so we can be able to get that message across," he said. He said he hope he would be able to facilitate more and better dialogue between the Vatican and Beijing in order to avoid episodes such as when the new bishop of Shanghai was installed without consultation with the Vatican. "I think that there should be more dialogue, more opportunities and more willingness to open up (because) when dialogue is not sufficient we make assumptions ... and that is where things break down. So if we talk more those assumptions can be tested out," he said. (Reporting by Philip Pullella; Editing by Alexandra Hudson) Hackers linked to Beijing breached the email accounts of government officials this year and stole 60,000 emails from the U.S. State Department, a Senate staffer told Reuters Wednesday. The emails were stolen from 10 State Department accounts, according to the source, who works for Senator Eric Schmitt and was present during a briefing by State Department IT officials. Nine of those accounts belonged to people working on East Asian and Pacific affairs and one on Europe, per an email containing briefing details from the staffer. The hack was first reported in July, and compromised a Microsoft engineers device, per Reuters. The breach appeared to hone in on a select number of senior officials managing the U.S.-China relationship. According to the outlet, U.S. officials and Microsoft said that since May, Chinese state-linked hackers had accessed the email accounts at around 25 organizations, including the U.S. Commerce and State Departments. It is not clear what the content of the emails were. The email accounts of U.S. Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia Daniel Kritenbrink, and Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo were among those breached. Security experts and former intelligence officials previously told the Wall Street Journal that the timing of the cyber attack occurred during tense relations between the U.S. and China over the war in Ukraine, reports of China and Cuba negotiations to build a joint military training facility, and the shooting down of a Chinese spy balloon that was found hovering above North America earlier this year. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Click here to read the full article. The Chinese hackers who breached multiple US government agencies in May stole some 60,000 emails from senior State Department officials, including information on officials travel itineraries, a Senate staffer briefed on the matter told CNN. The new details from a briefing to senators and their staffers illustrate how the Chinese operatives allegedly scoured the inboxes of senior US diplomats focused on diplomacy in the Pacific ahead of a high-stakes trip to China by Secretary of State Antony Blinken in June. The hackers raided the unclassified email accounts of nine State Department officials focused on East Asia and the Pacific, and another official who works on European issues, according to a staffer in the office of Republican Sen. Eric Schmitt of Missouri. The staffer, who declined to be named, attended a briefing on the hacking campaign that senior State Department IT officials gave the Senate on Wednesday. The hackers were also able to access a list of every State Department email address, according to the Senate staffer. That kind of reconnaissance could be useful information for any follow-on hacking efforts aimed at the State Department. At a press briefing Thursday, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller confirmed that the hackers accessed about 60,000 State Department emails. [T]his was a hack of Microsoft systems that the State Department uncovered and notified Microsoft about, Miller told reporters. The State Department has not formally attributed the hack, but Microsoft has blamed a China-based hacking group. We have no reason to doubt [Microsofts] attribution in this case, Miller said. The stealthy hacking campaign exploited Microsoft email software and began with the hackers breaching a Microsoft engineer, the company has said. The cyber intrusions have showcased the leaps China has made in its cyber capabilities, according to experts, and have prompted US lawmakers and Biden administration officials to scrutinize the US governments reliance on Microsoft technology. The cyber-espionage campaign breached the unclassified email accounts of US Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, and Daniel Kritenbrink, the assistant secretary of State for East Asia who traveled with Blinken to China in June, CNN previously reported. Republican Rep. Don Bacon of Nebraska, who has been critical of the Chinese government, said he was also breached by the hackers. The State Department declined to comment on the Senate briefing. Chinese government officials have responded to the hacking allegations by accusing the US government of conducting cyberattacks against China. In a statement to CNN, Schmitt welcomed the briefing but said his investigation into the hacks is far from over. We need to harden our defenses against these types of cyberattacks and intrusions in the future, and we need to take a hard look at the federal governments reliance on a single vendor as a potential weak point, Schmitt said. CNNs Alex Marquardt and Michael Conte contributed reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) addressed Donald Trump s glaring absence from the second Republican presidential debate of the 2024 election cycle on Wednesday evening in California. Asked how he would respond to crime, Christie pointed out that Trump should have been at the debate to answer the question and proceeded to stare straight into the camera to address the former president. Donald, I know youre watching. You cant help yourself. I know youre watching, Christie said. And youre not here tonight not because of polls and not because of your indictments youre not here tonight because youre afraid of being on the stage and defending your record. Heres the clip of Chris Christie calling on Trump as Donald Duck pic.twitter.com/MLHNDBB3iv Reda (@RedaMor_) September 28, 2023 Trump had previously said that he would be skipping the Republican debates. He was absent from the first one, which occurred a week after he was indicted in Georgia for charges related to his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election results in that state. Trump also decided not to join the other GOP candidates in the second debate because of his early lead in polls, The Associated Press reported. Christie continued to take a dig at the former president, saying, Youre ducking these things. And let me tell you whats going to happen: You keep doing that, no one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore. Were gonna call you Donald Duck. Later that evening, Christie posted a GIF on X (formerly known as Twitter) of the cartoon character laughing. Christie, a former adviser to Trump, has become one of his loudest Republican critics. At last months GOP presidential debate, candidates were asked whether theyd support Trump as a nominee, and most of the candidates raised their hands. But Christie criticized the former president as he shook his finger and said that Trumps conduct is beneath the office of president of the United States. GOP presidential candidate Chris Christie is dismissing criticism of his jab at first lady Jill Biden in Wednesdays presidential debate. When asked why he took aim at the first lady, Christie pointed to a recent book put out about President Biden. It details conversations the president supposedly had with Randi Weingarten , the president of the American Federation of Teachers. It talks very, very specifically about how Joe Biden told Randi Weingarten, I told you, youd have an advocate here in the White House for you, starting on Day 1, when they moved into the White House, Christie, the former governor of New Jersey, said on CNN. Thats the history. Joe Biden has been a radical advocate for the worst in the teachers union. And thats why I brought it up because no one else is willing to, he added. No one else is willing to say it. Christie continued, arguing Biden was advocating for the worst by allowing school lockdowns to continue during the COVID-19 pandemic, even after saying he would have them open within 100 days of his presidency. He didnt do that because of the pressure from his wife and from Randi Weingarten, he argued. During the debate Wednesday night, Christie blasted teachers unions by claiming they control the schools, instead of the public. He pointed to the first lady, who serves as a professor and a member of the teachers union, as the reason. This public school system is no longer run by the public. It is run by the teachers unions in this country, the former governor said. Randi Weingarten and her crew are absolutely strangling theyre taking the worst of their members and defending them rather than advocating for our kids. And when you have the president of the United States sleeping with a member of the teachers union, there is no chance that you could take the stranglehold away from the teachers union, Christie added. Every day, they have an advocate inside the White House every day, for the worst of their teachers, not for our students to be the best they can be. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) ripped Christies jab as disgusting and misogynistic, saying if Republicans want to continue pissing off an entire nation of women, please be my guest. Well see you at the ballot box. When asked about the congresswomans criticism, Christie again dismissed it and called her a hypocrite. He said he is standing by the wording, noting that Ocasio-Cortezs criticism is probably the highlight of my day so far. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Republican presidential candidate Chris Christie hit again at Donald Trump the morning after the second GOP debate, after the former president blasted him for the comparison to the Disney cartoon character Donald Duck. I live in his head, Christie told Fox News Thursday morning. In a memorable moment during Wednesday's debate, Christie looked into the camera and accused Trump, who didnt attend, of ducking these things. He continued the pre-planned quip with: If you keep doing that, no one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore. Theyre gonna call you Donald Duck. The joke fell flat. Trump told Fox News afterwards, anybody that would come up with that nickname shouldnt be running for president. Still, the former president, whos known for giving his opponents creative nicknames, knows what I said is true, Christie said Thursday. That's why he spent most of his time last night in the debate reacting to the stuff I said and attacking me. As the GOP presidential frontrunner, Trump has strayed from participating in both debates with his opponents. Christie, who trails far behind in the polls, again called for him to appear on stage. What he should be doing is getting out on the debate stage and defending his record, he said. And when asked if it's true that Christie, Trump's former ally-turned-outspoken critic, wouldn't accept an offer to be his vice president, the former New Jersey governor had a simple response: No chance. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) sent a message to former President Trump during the second GOP presidential primary debate on Wednesday night, calling the frontrunner out for his absence from the stage once again. I want to look at the camera right now and tell you, Donald, I know youre watching. You cant help yourself. I know youre watching, okay? And youre not here tonight not because of polls and not because of your indictments. Youre not here tonight because youre afraid of being on this stage and defending your record, Christie said from his podium on the Simi Valley, Calif., stage. Youre ducking these things. And let me tell you whats going to happen, you keep doing that, no one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore, were gonna call you Donald Duck,' Christie said. Trump, who boasts a significant lead over the rest of the GOP presidential field in multiple national polls over recent months, skipped the partys first presidential debate in Milwaukee last month and instead shared an interview with Tucker Carlson as counter-programming. He also passed on the second event in Southern California on Wednesday, opting instead to give remarks in Michigan. Trump has cited his frontrunner status as a reason for not joining his fellow White House contenders in California. Trump is also campaigning in the face of a myriad of legal troubles including four criminal indictments. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis also called out Trump for his absence during the closely watched RNC event. Donald Trump is missing in action. He should be on this stage tonight, DeSantis said For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Republican presidential candidate Chris Christie slammed former President Trumps recent remarks about Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Mark Milley , saying on Thursday they were reprehensible but not surprising. What he said about Mark Milley is reprehensible, but it is not surprising because hes called on that for other people before and it is wrong. It needs to be called out as wrong, Christie told Willie Geist on MSNBCs Morning Joe. Christie was referring to a post Trump wrote on Truth Social last week in which the former president celebrated Milleys departure from office this month and suggested Milley could have faced execution for reaching out to China following the Capitol attack. Trump also said he would have notified the country if the U.S. was going to attack, which was reported by journalists Bob Woodward and Robert Costa. This guy turned out to be a Woke train wreck who, if the Fake News reporting is correct, was actually dealing with China to give them a heads up on the thinking of the President of the United States, Trump wrote. This is an act so egregious that, in times gone by, the punishment would have been DEATH! A war between China and the United States could have been the result of this treasonous act. But Christie argued during his interview that those comments were disqualifying for Trump as he seeks another run for the White House. Its just another thing, Willie, that disqualifies him from being an appropriate candidate for president of the United States for our party, and for being president himself at all. Look, Mark Milley has given this country extraordinary service, and I have great respect for him, Christie told Geist. Christies remarks come one day after seven candidates, including Christie, participated in the second GOP debate in California. Trump skipped the second debate to speak to current and former union workers and non-union workers in Michigan. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Democratic Senators Bob Menendez of New Jersey and Chuck Schumer of New York started out in Washington together 30 years ago, in January of 1993, after being elected to Congress from neighboring states the previous November. Though politicians do have personal loyalties, I cant imagine its sentiment thats kept the majority leader from calling on Menendez to resign in the five days, though it feels far longer, since he was indicted on bribery charges last Friday. But then, I cant think of any other reason that makes much sense, either, especially since Schumers statement praising Menendez as a dedicated public servant is so damaging to his party. Either serially indicted politicians with a long history of ethics problems should hold office or they should not. And no matter what happens to either Bob Menendez or Donald Trump in court, neither man is fit to serve. According to the Menendez indictment, the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee accepted gold bars and envelopes of cash in return for the aid he helped secure for the authoritarian government of Egypt, where human rights are virtually nonexistent. He also is accused of trying to intervene on behalf of a couple of New Jersey businessmen from whom he allegedly took bribes. On Wednesday, Schumer told reporters, We all know that senators for senators, theres a much much higher standard. And clearly, when you read the indictment, Sen. Menendez fell way, way below that standard. Do we all know that? Then why not call for his keys right now? And how please tell us are we holding Menendez to a higher standard by expecting the foreign relations chair to refrain from seeking aid for the foreign government thats lining his pockets? About those gold bars in the closet Like Trump, Menendez is pleading not guilty, which is his right. But the senators suggestion that he stowed gold bars in his closet because his parents were born in Cuba, where the government seized assets after Castro came to power, tells us that he also shares Trumps belief that the gullibility of the American public can never be overestimated. A majority of Senate Democrats, along with the Democratic governor of New Jersey, have already called on Menendez to step down. But even if Schumer is instead working behind the scenes to move him out, how does that change the perception of a double standard? In my first job in Washington, which was covering the New York, New Jersey and Connecticut congressional delegations for the New York Times starting in January of 1995, I met both Schumer and Menendez several times, though I knew neither very well. My main memory of Schumer is that he was and remains the only person who ever made me cry in an interview, by asking whether I had kids, and then when I said no, noting that that was a shame since children are what make life worth living. He seemed not to notice my reaction, though other women told me they had a similar one when he told them the same thing. Hopefully, he has long since retired that line, and will soon see to it that Menendez retires, too. The NYT archives show that I quoted Menendez only once, on the day that Bill Clinton was impeached. Hillary Clinton had gone to Capitol Hill to rally the troops. In a closed-door meeting with Democratic House members, she said Republicans were hounding him out of office for purely political reasons. Resignation was out of the question, she told them, and was answered with six standing ovations and a bunch of hugs. She said this is as much about ending his agenda on health care and other things as about hounding him out of office, Menendez told me after the meeting. She said there would be no resignation and we should not and cannot allow them to hound him out of office. If any of the House Democrats I interviewed that day werent sure about that, they didnt let on. But I thought both that of course Clintons impeachment was political and that he should resign anyway. Not only for lying under oath, but for a relationship that many more people now than then see as so unequal as to have been an abuse of power. At the time, even most feminists disagreed, and offered Clinton unqualified support. Still defining deviancy down Lindsey Graham made this argument on the House floor: Dont put your legal and political interests ahead of the rule of law and common decency. If you find that these are high crimes, that is the burden youre placing on the next office holder. If they cant meet that burden, this country has a serious problem. I dont want my country to be the country of great equivocators and compartmentalizers for the next century. Neither did I, and one of us hasnt changed her mind. Graham and so many others have, though. Which is why, all these years later, as the late New York Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan, whom I also covered in the 90s, put it, we are still defining deviancy down. When Bill OReilly correctly called Russian President Vladimir Putin a killer in 2017, Trump responded: There are a lot of killers. Weve got a lot of killers. What do you think? Our countrys so innocent? Trumps whole vice-signaling, idealism-killing career argues that since all pols, and all people, do the wrong thing sometimes, well then were naturally all just out for ourselves, and theres no such thing as behavior thats truly disqualifying. There is, though. Menendez should pack his bags because hes disgraced the office. And unless theres no longer any such thing as disgrace, that will be true no matter what Schumer or a jury decides. Officials in Mayor Adams administration on Wednesday walked back his claim that only 15,000 Venezuelans staying in city shelters are eligible for a newly expanded form of immigration status that can put them on a fast track to work permits. In a migrant crisis briefing, Dr. Ted Long, a top official in the citys public hospital system, said there are actually at least 22,000 newly-arrived Venezuelans in city shelters eligible for the new designation, known as Temporary Protected Status, or TPS. Long said that number could even grow as the city is in the process of surveying all migrants in its care for eligibility, with about 70% polled so far. Longs comments contradict Adams statement last Thursday that just 15,000 Venezuelans in city shelters are newly eligible for TPS thanks to the Biden administrations decision to offer it to anyone from the South American country who entered the U.S. before July 31. But in a head-scratching twist, a spokesman for Long told reporters after Wednesdays briefing that Long also misspoke when he said 22,000 Venezuelans in city shelters are newly-eligible for TPS. The spokesman, Adam Shrier, said Longs 22,000 figure references the total number of Venezuelan nationals in city shelters, not those who are newly-eligible for TPS. Still, Shrier acknowledged the 15,000 figure the mayor disclosed last week likely isnt accurate either as the administration expects the number of TPS-eligible Venezuelans in city shelters to grow higher than that once the survey referenced by Long is completed. Asked why Adams shared the 15,000 number before that survey was finished, Shrier said the mayor acted on the best information available to City Hall at the time. To make matters even thornier, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which processes TPS applications, believes the citys numbers are wildly incorrect, as first reported by the Daily News. Department of Homeland Security officials told The News last week that their data shows the number of Venezuelans in city shelters is actually around 39,000, accounting for a majority of the roughly 60,000 migrants estimated to be in the citys care. The officials said their data also shows nearly all of those 39,000 Venezuelans are presumed to be eligible for the new TPS designation, as only a handful of them entered after the July 31 cutoff date. A Department of Homeland Security spokesman did not return a request for comment Wednesday on the latest data confusion from Adams administration. Temporary Protected Status opens the door to fast-tracked work permits because migrants can apply for employment authorization along with their TPS claims. Migrants who arent on TPS need to wait six months after submitting their asylum claim before they can even apply for a work permit. Adams and a large chorus of his fellow New York Democrats have said allowing newly-arrived migrants to quickly secure work permits is a critical part of resolving the asylum seeker crisis. In Wednesdays briefing, Long said its OK if the number on TPS eligibility in shelters keeps changing as its important that the city identifies every migrant whos eligible for fast-tracked work papers. Its not just about statistics, this is how we know what help people need, he said. That is the most important part. A person holds a "Back the Blue" sign during a rally in support of police and other law enforcement officers on July 15, 2020, in front of Seattle's City Hall. (Ted S. Warren/AP) Most people would agree with the general proposition that we should support law enforcement. But does that mean we need to support the police no matter what they do? Even if a drunken officer beats up a slight female bartender who refuses to serve him more alcohol, like former Chicago police Officer Anthony Abbate did to Karolina Obrycka in 2007? Even if an officer gets out of his car and puts 16 bullets in a Black teen who was not posing an immediate threat to anyone, like former Chicago police Officer Jason Van Dyke did to Laquan McDonald in 2014? Even if their colleagues falsify police reports to cover up their crimes? How about former Detective Reynaldo Guevara, whose coercion of confessions resulted in at least 39 suspects people who eventually were exonerated by judges spending more than 850 years in prison for crimes they did not commit? Or former Cmdr. Jon Burge, who allegedly perpetrated and oversaw the torture of countless suspects and compulsion of false confessions? Or former Sgt. Ronald Watts, who for years extorted money from drug dealers and falsely arrested those who did not cooperate? Advertisement This is not a matter of a few bad apples. Burge, Guevara, Watts and countless others were all allowed to operate criminal enterprises within the Chicago Police Department for years while innocent people were robbed, tortured and sent to prison, and the guilty walked free. In 2012, a federal jury found that Abbates conduct was the result of the citys widespread practice of failing to adequately investigate and/or discipline its officers and enabling a police code of silence. This institutional culture of corruption has cost Chicagoans not only hundreds of millions of dollars in litigation fees, settlements and jury verdicts, but also has engendered an undeniably more dangerous city. Advertisement When mayoral candidate Willie Wilson said earlier this year that the police should be able to hunt down people like rabbits, perhaps he believed he was standing up for crime victims and law-abiding citizens. But he was advocating for an utterly lawless, violent world in which no one would stand up for the rule of law. This would not make us safe it would do the exact opposite. Wilson said this because he saw a political benefit in appealing to a segment of the city that considers itself pro-police. Imagine that: Pro-police means hunting down citizens like animals on a safari. Is that what back the blue means to people? The problem with slogans such as back the blue and versions of the American flag that indicate solidarity with law enforcement is that they invite us to see law enforcement and public safety issues as a team sport. Youre either on team police, or whatever the opposite is, when the reality is far more complicated. [ Editorial: Its past time for Chicagos legacy of bad cops to end ] Chicago Tribune Opinion Weekdays Read the latest editorials and commentary curated by the Tribune Opinion team. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy > How can we expect the police to do their jobs effectively when half of the population doesnt trust them to do it honestly, and the other half supports them no matter what they do? The status quo is simply unsustainable. Law enforcement stands between a society that is peaceful and prosperous and one defined by chaos and lawlessness. For those officers who do their jobs professionally and correctly and there are plenty the mission is very difficult, even on a good day. But it becomes impossibly difficult when they have to deal with the fallout from colleagues who lie, steal, ignore the constitutional rights of citizens (including arrestees) and act as criminals themselves. The city of Chicago has a new mayor and police superintendent. I do not know Mayor Brandon Johnson, but I got to know Superintendent Larry Snelling when I represented Chicago police officers years ago. I had a tremendous amount of respect for then-Sgt. Snelling, and I am hopeful he can make a difference in what has long been a troubled and scandal-plagued department where the contributions of good officers like him were overshadowed and diminished by the others. If we all support the right of people to be safe in their homes and on the street if we all support real public safety we need to demand law enforcement that is professional and accountable, that does the hard work of enforcing the law while at the same time respecting the rights of those they are sworn to protect. And we need to hold not just officers accountable, but also police departments and cities to ensure that their officers are properly hired, trained, supervised and disciplined. So when we say back the blue, does that include Burge and his fellow corrupt officers? If it doesnt (and we should all hope it doesnt), then we should retire the phrase, and reject easy and simplistic slogans, including defund the police, in favor of a continuing dialogue that accounts for the complicated nature of policing a big city with a troubled history. Our lives depend on it. Jordan Marsh is an attorney who represents plaintiffs in civil rights lawsuits. Advertisement Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com. Among the six charges facing a Delaware State Police trooper accused of assaulting two teen boys is a new state law making it a felony for those with governmental-issued powers, such as police officers, to knowingly violate someone's civil rights. The deprivation of civil rights charge was the third count in the indictment filed against Delaware State Police Trooper Dempsey R. Walters, making it the first time state prosecutors used the act since being signed into law in October, Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings said Tuesday. "In this case, it is clear that the reason that charge has been brought is because a defenseless juvenile was handcuffed in the back of a police vehicle and he was assaulted," Jennings said. What prompted this new law? The deprivation of civil rights law was part of a set of legislation introduced by Delaware lawmakers following the May 25, 2020, murder of George Floyd by former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin. In this case, Chauvin was acting under the color of law when depriving Floyd of his rights. Delaware's deprivation of civil rights bill was introduced in June 2021 by Rep. Kendra Johnson, chair of the Delaware Legislative Black Caucus. The Democrat who represents areas near New Castle and Bear could not be reached for comment, but Johnson has been active for years in bringing reform to policing. Delaware Representative Kendra Johnson speaks during a bill signing ceremony on August 7, 2023. She sponsored House Bill 206, which was signed into law this year. This legislation changes the Council on Police Training, which holds hearings for disciplinary actions and can suspend or revoke an officer's certification. The group is being renamed to the Police Officer Standards and Training Commission and will now have the authority to take action if an officer has a criminal past or has been decertified in a different jurisdiction. It can also issue subpoenas for witnesses, documents and any other evidence needed for a hearing. All decisions made by the commission will be public. NAACP Delaware State Conference of Branches President Richard Smith, who has been vocal about police brutality against people of color and poor whites, said the Delaware Department of Justice did a good job in investigating the matter and bringing charges against Walters. "They're on the right track," he said, adding he wants to see other officers involved in this matter being disciplined or charged with a crime. A state police spokesperson told Delaware Online/The News Journal that the agency will be looking to see if other officers violated policies. "When an incident involving the Delaware State Police occurs, we follow a bifurcated process," Sgt. India Sturgis, a police spokesperson, said on Tuesday. "First and foremost, we prioritize the criminal investigation as was announced today. The next step in the process is for DSP to identify any potential policy violations committed by troopers on the scene." WHAT HAPPENED? Delaware state trooper indicted amid investigation into assault of teen pranking his home Why the new law was used In announcing the indictment filed against the 29-year-old trooper Tuesday, the state Department of Justice released Walters' body-cam video showing him punching a 15-year-old boy, who was handcuffed while in the back seat of a state police SUV last month. The boy had been pranking homes in Elsmere by knocking on doors, then running away in an act also known as "ding-dong ditch." One of the homes the boy pranked on Aug. 21 belonged to Walters, who called it in as an attempted home invasion resulting in multiple agencies, including K-9 units and the state police helicopter, to search for the pranksters. Prior to punching the 15-year-old in the face twice, the indictment said the boy was face-down on the ground as another trooper was trying to handcuff him. That's when Walters came up and struck the boy in the back of the neck and head with his knee. That was captured by several police cameras. The deprivation of civil rights is a Class B felony that carries a minimum of two years in prison, Jennings said. Walters was also charged with second-degree assault, a felony; two counts of third-degree assault, misdemeanors; and two counts of official misconduct, also misdemeanors. One of the misdemeanor assaults and official misconduct Walters was charged with came after investigators said Walters and a Newport Police officer went to the home of a 17-year-old boy and, at gunpoint, removed him from his house, according to the indictment. The 17-year-old and his friend had not been involved in the ding-dong ditch prank and Walters had had a run-in with the older teen the week before while the trooper was off duty. Addressing the public's concerns Walters, who has been with Delaware State Police for about seven years, remains on suspension without pay or benefits according to State Police Col. Melissa Zebley who spoke about the incident Tuesday. "I can assure you all and the community we serve that he never worked for one more minute as a Delaware State Trooper following his actions that evening," Zebley said, adding Walters' actions "fall outside of our policies, our training, our core values." Zebley said they reviewed Walters' body camera footage from the Aug. 21 incident and notified the Delaware Department of Justice the following morning. Col. Melissa Zebley, of the Delaware State Police, speaks at a press conference announcing charges filed against a state trooper. She added that the department is conducting an internal review and reinforcing its policies to address potential public concerns. "We recognize the gravity of the situation and assure you all that we are taking every possible step to prevent such things from happening in the future," she said. Contact Esteban Parra at (302) 324-2299 or eparra@delawareonline.com. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware state trooper charged with beating teen faces new state law Former Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.) says a government shutdown seems inevitable as House Republicans cant agree on a spending deal to keep federal agencies open. And that, she said on MSNBC on Wednesday night, could force House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) to give up his leadership post in a matter of weeks. Heres the problem he has: In order to keep the government from shutting down or to open the government back up, hes gonna have to go to Democratic voters, McCaskill said. And that means he cant be speaker anymore. She was referring to a hard-line group of Republican extremists whove threatened to boot McCarthy from the speakers chair if he makes any deal with Democratic lawmakers. But McCaskill urged McCarthy to do it anyway. Kevin, heres the thing: Its gonna be painful, she said. Tear off the frickin Band-Aid. Confront those extreme people in your caucus and say, Take me out if you can, but Im going to do whats best for this country and frankly whats best for the party. Theres just one problem with that. He seems like hes really a bad negotiator and a really big coward, she said. McCaskill said a shutdown seems inevitable, and McCarthy will need Democrats to end it which will tempt those extremists to turn against the speaker. That could lead to some chilling news for McCarthy before Halloween. I predict before we say trick-or-treat, well be calling somebody else speaker, she said. See the full conversation with MSNBCs Alex Wagner and Joy Reid below: Pay Dirt is a weekly foray into the pigpen of political funding. Subscribe here to get it in your inbox every Thursday. When Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas released a 2021 Kindle and Audiobook version of his bestselling 2007 memoir, a powerful longtime friend pitched in to juice the sales. But even with that boostwhich The Daily Beast reported came from conservative dark money mastermind Leonard Leo the sales apparently didnt take. At least, thats according to Thomas 2021 financial disclosure, which listed no royalty income. His most recent disclosure, which Thomas filed with an extension in August and covers the 2022 calendar year, doesnt list royalties, either. In fact, Thomas hasnt reported any royalty income since 2008, the year after the release of My Grandfathers Son, a No. 1 New York Times bestseller that earned the justice what at the time was a stunning $1.5 million advance. While that 14-year streak may sound absurd, there are a few explanations, ranging from scandalous to banal. But judicial ethics experts tell The Daily Beast that even the most benign and plausible explanationthat the memoir simply hasnt sold enough copies to earn out beyond his huge advanceraises ethics concerns that apply to the justices more broadly. Clarence Thomas Koch Party Is Latest Shocking Ethics Breach Today, its common for Supreme Court justices to land lucrative book deals. Several justices have reaped seven-figure windfalls, including Amy Coney Barrett ($2 million advance), Ketanji Brown Jackson ($3 million), Sonia Sotomayor ($3.1 million), and Neil Gorsuch (at least $650,000 for a 2019 book, with a $250,000 partial advance on a new work). But in this department, the famously private and reticent Thomas was the trendsetter. The $1.5 million advance on royalties from HarperCollins towered over the previous book deals given to his peers on the bench. It was also the first major personal windfall for Thomas, who The New York Times reported was still one of the poorest justices even after the advance. He remains one of the poorest members to this day, though the largesse from a network of conservative billionaire friends has funded a lifestyle far out of that league. Ethics rules require justices to disclose any advances and royalties they receive above $200. Retired Justice Stephen Breyers final financial disclosure, covering 2022, includes $2,418.98 in royalty income from Penguin Random House, in addition to royalty income of $150,000 and about $42,000 from other works. On the same form that Gorsuch reported his initial $250,000 installment, he included $308.44 in royalties from a 2009 academic work; last year, that book earned him $277.57. Still, Thomas has gone 14 years without reporting any royalties on a memoir that topped the chartsone which the reclusive conservative promoted in part with a speaking tour and major interviews, including reliable sales engines like 60 Minutes and The Rush Limbaugh Show. Last week, ProPublica reported that those promotional efforts also extended to at least one private gathering with wealthy people who have had interests before the Supreme Courta previously unreported 2008 Federalist Society dinner hosted by billionaire conservative Charles Koch. Legal experts told The Daily Beast its possible that Thomaswhose financial disclosures have repeatedly been shown to be variously opaque, erroneous, and incomplete over the yearshas handled his royalty income in a way that might not require disclosure. Stephen Gillers, a leading expert in legal ethics at New York University, told The Daily Beast that if Thomas gave his rights away, he wouldnt have to disclose his royalties. It is possible of course that Thomas has assigned all royalties to someone else, in which case they are no longer income, Gillers told The Daily Beast. Gillers noted that this would not hold true if a judge or justice still owns the copyright but decides to assign a royalty payment to another person, in which case the payment is still income to the judge. But if someone else owns the rights, then Thomas wouldnt be required to disclose his books royalties, nor would he be required to disclose that hed given them away. (Gillers noted that such a move could carry gift tax implications.) However, the copyright page on Thomas 2021 Kindle release indicates that the rights were at that point still in his name. Virginia Canter, chief ethics counsel for watchdog Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, theorized that Thomas could have donated the royalties to another entity, such as a charity. Clarence Thomas Attended at Least Two Koch Donor Summits: Report Another possibility is that he assigned the rights to his wifes consulting firm, Canter said, referencing Ginny Thomas company, Liberty Consulting, which has previously received nonpublic payments from Leo, according to The Washington Post. He only has to report that she received income, but he doesnt have to report the amount. Canter noted that if Thomas is donating the proceeds to a charity, he should disclose that information, along with any possible tax deduction, because then you can understand why hes not reporting the royalties. She added that its critical to know whether Thomas or his wife has received payments, pointing to the raft of recent reporting about the couples entanglements with wealthy benefactors. Those benefactors include Leo, whose private PR company, CRC Advisors, promoted the 2021 Kindle release of Thomas memoir, along with a number of other ventures exalting Thomas. Prior to that point, the memoir appears to not have been available for public purchase in ebook form, according to internet and retailer searches. Leo was facilitating all of these events, and Thomass participation in them, and some of them apparently involve the promotion of the book, Canter said. If hes tapping into that network of dark money groups to purchase the books and theyre the same dark money groups presenting arguments to the court, it looks like Thomas is beholden to Leo and those supporters and the grounds for recusal in those cases are strengthened. But its possible that Thomas reporting in this regard has been accurate. In fact, its the most likely explanation: The book has not sold enough copies to generate royalty income in excess of his $1.5 million advancealso known as earning out. The Daily Beast sent questions to a number of people and entities for this article, including Thomas associates, the Supreme Court, and his publisher, HarperCollins. A HarperCollins spokesperson replied that the company does not comment on authors advances or any financial matters pertaining to their books. The Supreme Court press office did not respond to emailed questions, which The Daily Beast also requested be forwarded to the justices mentioned in this report. One source, however, did tell The Daily Beast that the book apparently still has not earned out. We could not independently verify that information. Royalty calculations are notoriously tricky, and depend on contractual details that are often unknown to the public. For instance, Thomas royalty rate isnt public information, and the books price has dropped over the yearsthough it is still selling. According to Publishers Weekly, Thomas had sold more than 242,000 copies of My Grandfathers Son as of this August. That number bumps up against the magic 250,000 earning out mark floated earlier this year by Fix The Courts Gabe Roth, a judicial reform advocate who has testified as an expert before the House and Senate. If the book in fact still hasnt earned out, some ethics experts argue that would point to a larger and ongoing concern about the justices generally. Kathleen Clark, a legal ethics expert at Washington University-St. Louis School of Law, said that exorbitant advancesthat arent justified by salescould be seen as a gift. One of the problems with the Court having financial transactions like book advances is that in theory those advances may not reflect the commercial value of the book, and appear as a windfall for the justice, Clark said. It raises the specter of an advance that is actually something like a gift. Gillers, of NYU, agreed. A big advance that a publisher could not reasonably expect to recoup in sales is really a gift and should be reported, or at least understood, as such, he said, noting that justices must report all gifts outside the category of personal hospitality. Clarence Thomas Enjoyed 38 Vacations Paid for by Billionaires: Report Clark pointed to the sky-high deals that justices have landed after Thomas deal, noting that the authors would appear to have little hope of recouping those amounts. But she also observed some irony in the fact that this specific imbalance was recently invoked in defense of Justice Sotomayor, who this summer was reported to have encouraged her staff to promote her memoir. At the time, the Associated Press cited a person close to Sotomayor arguing that she wasnt using her staff to put money back in her pocket, because her book had not earned outand was in no danger of ever doing so. In order to generate royalties beyond her $3.1 million advance, the person said, Sotomayor would have to first sell hundreds of thousands of additional books, more than double the purchases to date. Sotomayor declined to recuse herself in two cases involving copyright infringement issues with her publisher, Penguin Random House. (Gorsuch, who has the same publisher, also did not recuse from the second case after he joined the court.) The Supreme Court declined to hear either case on appeal, and in both instances the publisher ultimately won in a lower court. Sotomayors defense is problematic, not exculpatory, Clark said. It suggests that a publisher arranged to give her an advance that would have exceeded what the book could have earned, which is evidence of an advance not justified by the sales. The first installment on Sotomayors advance$1.175 millioncame in 2010, two years after Thomas reported his final payment. Charles Geyh, an expert in judicial conduct at Indiana Universitys Maurer School of Law, concurred that an unrealistic advance is essentially a gift, telling The Daily Beast that it would seem that the compensation the justices are receiving is a special deal for them in their capacity as justices. While the Supreme Court still refuses to adopt a separate code of conduct for itself, the court has signaled that it refers to the Code of Conduct for U.S. Judges, which, Geyh noted, addresses this issue. According to the code, judges may receive outside compensation subject to restrictions. Among them, that compensation should not exceed a reasonable amount nor should it exceed what a person who is not a judge would receive for the same activity. But Geyh also observed a wrinkle. Specifically, the public does not know everything that the publishers knowsuch as whether they believe they can sell enough books, or whether comparable public figures receive similar advances, which Geyh said would affect the analysis. Danielle Caputo, counsel for legal ethics with nonpartisan watchdog Campaign Legal Center, pointed back to Leo, whose Kindle promotions would have nudged the book closer to that magic number where sales would once again put money in Thomas pocket. Clarence Thomas Finally Discloses Slew of Gifts From Megadonor Pal That raises questions, understandably, about those strong personal relationships and ties, and where Thomas may not recuse himself from cases that may involve Leo, Caputo told The Daily Beast. It leads the public to wonder whether this creates some sense of impropriety, and whether the justice will be favorable to one party over the other. Her groups chief concern, she said, is that the Supreme Court has no way to deal with these questions beyond the reporting requirements in placerequirements which Caputo, like all the experts interviewed for this article, believes are inadequate. This isnt such a narrow question for other branches of government, Caputo said, noting that members of the House must secure approval from the ethics committee for their book contracts. There can be a process in SCOTUS to better address these kinds of questions, she said. There needs to be a better process. 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. Trump made the right decision by skipping the GOP primary debates. Wednesday's contest was a mess as his desperate challengers sought a breakout moment. The debate ended with none of the 7 hopefuls anywhere closer to piercing the former president's lead. Former President Donald Trump gambled that his apparent glide path to recapturing the Republican presidential debate would not be derailed by skipping the very primary debates he used in 2015 to cement his hostile takeover of the GOP. His wager worked out perfectly. Now, one of his senior advisors is calling for the Republican National Committee to cancel any future debates. As a journalist, I appreciate any forum that forces candidates to go on the record about their positions. But in terms of the race itself, it's hard to see anything that will dampen Trump's 40-point lead in national polling. The former president also holds a commanding lead in the early states that have reliable polling available. No recent GOP presidential nominee has emerged without winning one of the first four races. Wednesday night's debate illustrated the dire state of the race for the rest of the field. At multiple times, Fox's moderators struggled to control the desperate hopefuls vying for a campaign-changing moment. There were at least two instances when the seven candidates spoke over each other so much that it was difficult to hear anyone at all. Despite being literally overshadowed by Ronald Reagan's legacy, none of the candidates were able to match the debate's backdrop. Trump's bet was not a sure thing. His close loss in the 2016 Iowa Republican caucuses is remembered for his decision to skip the final debate that preceded the first in the nation contest. Multiple commentators wondered if Republican voters would punish him again, this time for not even deigning to show up to any of the debates. Now, it looks clear that by staying away Trump deprived the debates of the spectacle that surrounds him. It's so bad that Semafor reported before Wednesday's debate that Fox was slashing ad prices. The desperation seemed almost apparent at times in the questions themselves, including a final encouragement for the hopefuls to write down the name of the primary foe they wished would drop out as if the contest to become president had suddenly become "Survivor." CBS's long-running hit is produced by Mark Burnett, the same TV wiz who tapped Trump for "The Apprentice." Sometimes the metaphors aren't hard to find. If the former president goes on to face President Joe Biden in a rematch, his most crucial decision will end up being a relentless stream of attacks he and his allies inflicted on Ron DeSantis for months before the Florida governor finally entered the field. In retrospect, DeSantis' decision to wait for Florida's legislature to finish and his tendency to absorb Trump's blows without a retort significantly weakened the former president's best-placed challenger. As others have written, DeSantis' defining issue of his COVID-19 pandemic response has failed to resonate. Instead, his battle with Disney and other culture war issues has alienated allies who were once in his corner. In the end, GOP primary voters are poised to reject any replicas of Trump half the stage dressed like him, after all when the original is right before them. The long-held obsession of any Republican directly taking Trump to task has also seemed to fail. New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie quipped the debate that Trump would be known as "Donald Duck" if he continued to skip out. His joke received a few boos and little response beyond that. It's fitting that one of the debate's final moments was former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley arguing with Sen. Tim Scott, the very man she tapped for a historic appointment in the first place, over curtains in the ambassador's residence. Haley was right that Scott largely had his facts wrong. But honestly, it really doesn't matter. None of these candidates are going to be measuring the drapes in the Oval Office anytime soon. Read the original article on Business Insider U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has signaled that Republican lawmakers will reject a temporary stopgap deal from the Senate that contains aid to Ukraine, CNN reported Sept. 27. The Senate bill aims to prevent a government shutdown on Oct. 1 with a temporary deal that extends until Nov. 17. The bill includes an additional $6.1 billion in funding for Ukraine, comprising $4.5 billion for defense equipment and $1.6 billion in fiscal budget support. A looming U.S. federal government shutdown may complicate delivery of aid packages to Ukraine because some agency employees would not be allowed to work. Tennessee Republican Andy Ogles told CNN he continues to oppose the stopgap bill despite some progress between the two parties. Buckle up. Theres turbulence ahead, he said. An internal dispute amongst Republicans could lead to the first U.S. government shutdown since 2018 and result in serious consequences for Ukraine. Earlier this week State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller assured reporters that military aid to Ukraine would still continue regardless of any shutdown. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine sends letter to G7 on use of Western parts in Shahed drones Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. From the high dunes of Cape Henlopen, beach visitors enjoy the sight of passing ships. In July 1933, a steady stream of tankers, freighters and occasional sailing schooners paraded past the cape. Interspersed with the large ocean-going ships were smaller but powerful tugs, towing a short string of barges voyaging between coastal ports. The barges were equipped with simple crews quarters and spartan sleeping accommodations sufficient for a day or two at sea. The early summer weather promised to be pleasant, and some of the crew were accompanied by their relatives hoping to find some relief from the doldrums of the Great Depression then sweeping the United States. On this trip, a few of the sailors brought their wives. Fletcher Williams brought his five-month-old puppy, Teddy. Patti Riffle of Lewes photographs the foamy remnants of heavy surf as she examines the storm-churned surf at Cape Henlopen State Park as tropical storm Ophelia hit the Delaware coast Sept. 23, 2023. In the first week of July 1933, the weather turned out not to be pleasant. It was raining as the tug Kaleen towed a set of barges along the Delaware coast. In the 1930s, weather forecasters had no radar or weather satellites. Reports of storms received by ships at sea were relayed by phone to mariners along the coast. It was a primitive system, and storms seemingly appeared out of nowhere, which was the case off Fenwick Island when heavy rain, high winds and strong waves engulfed the Kaleen and its barges. Oscar Johnson, a veteran Delaware skipper, captained the Kaleen, and he had never experienced seas so rough at this time of the year. As the waves battered the barges, Johnson began to doubt that his string of barges could survive the storm. While he struggled to maintain headway in the Kaleen, he knew that the waters off Fenwick Island were peppered with shallows and shoals, and if one of the barges struck one of these underwater hazards, it could endanger all the tethered vessels. COASTAL STORM: Ophelia causes flooding and damage at Dewey Beach: Photos Johnson decided that the safest thing to do was to cut his tow lines and have the barges anchor until the storm had passed. Just as he was about to notify those on the barges of his decision, he saw a distress signal from one of the barges. He turned and steamed to the rescue. According to the Delaware Coat News, He threw a line to the Paul E. Thurlow and took off those aboard one-by-one. Johnson then edged the Kaleen toward the barge, S. G. Wilder, but he found that the crew of that vessel had already boarded a small boat, and, apparently, were able to care for themselves. Unfortunately, The New York Times reported, Two of the five men from the barge S. G. Wilder, who were missing on Tuesday night after drifting off the Jersey coast in a dory, were picked up yesterday as the three-day coastal storm receded and they were taken safely into Norfolk, Va. The three others were believed lost. Michael Morgan Johnson was able to pluck the remaining men and women aboard the other barges onto the Kaleen, and they put ashore at Lewes, where they described the terrifying storm and Captain Johnsons heroism in saving their lives. Aboard one of the remaining barges, Fletcher Williams was convinced that his vessel was doomed. Williams believed that he could swim to Johnsons tug, but could he leave Teddy behind? The sailor took some line, looped it around Teddy, and swung the puppy onto his back. After Williams tightened the lines that strapped Teddy to his back, the sailor jumped from the barge into the stormy waves. As Williams struggled to keep his head above water, he and Teddy were spotted by Johnsons crew on the tug. A rope was thrown to him from the Kaleen; and he was hauled aboard. As Williams untied the puppys makeshift harness, the seaman and Teddy were thoroughly drenched, but alive! DELAWARE HISTORY: How the DNA from 17th-century graves unearthed near Rehoboth may rewrite Delaware history Principal sources Delaware Coast News, July 7, 1933. The New York Times, July 6, 1933. Milford Chronicle July 7, 1933. This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: How a coastal storm ruined a summer excursion off Delaware coast MORTON Cochran County Commissioners unanimously enacted a countywide abortion ban during its regular meeting Thursday morning, following in the footsteps of its municipalities and larger area cities like Lubbock and Plainview. Cochran County joins Morton and Whiteface in outlawing abortion in its jurisdiction, and the county ordinance also prohibits traveling through the county or driving on its roads to obtain an abortion. Cochran County, which sits about 70 miles west of Lubbock on the New Mexico border, becomes the first Texas county bordering a state where abortion is legal to adopt such a ban. The ordinance clarifies its provisions do not apply to pregnant women seeking an abortion, but do apply to anyone assisting them. During the Thursday meeting, several citizens rose to speak in support of the ordinance, largely citing their Christian faith, and none spoke against the ban. County Judge Pat Sabala Henry told the court a representative from Texas Christians for Reproductive Justice, a group which supports abortion rights, left him a voicemail opposing the county ordinance. Two other Texas counties (Mitchell and Goliad counties) and a plethora of cities have adopted similar ordinances. In Cochran County, as in Mitchell and Goliad counties, the ordinance provides for a private enforcement mechanism similar to that of Texas' strict Senate Bill 8 abortion ban, known as the Heartbeat Act. This means any citizen will be able to file suit against someone they believe violated the ordinance. Related: Council approves election results, Lubbock to become Sanctuary City for the Unborn County Attorney Amanda Martin warned the ordinance could cause the county to be sued in the future. "Y'all need to understand that's a real possibility that could happen," Martin told commissioners. Mark Lee Dickson, a Longview pastor who has championed anti-abortion ordinances through his "Sanctuary Cities for the Unborn" initiative, told the court former Texas solicitor general Jonathan F. Mitchell would be willing to defend the county pro bono if it were sued. County Clerk Lisa Smith asked if the ordinance could open the county up to legal action for failing to maintain separation of church and state. "There is no separation of church and state," replied Commissioner Eric Silhan, who sponsored the ordinance. Dickson noted the ordinance does not mention religion. "We can stand against many evils of society. There's nothing wrong with citing our faith in Jesus Christ in the process," Dickson said. Still, legal experts have concerns the ordinance could be unconstitutional, specifically with regards to Cochran County's proximity to New Mexico and the travel prohibitions outlined in the ordinance. "The Supreme Court has given a lot of protection to the right to travel from state to state in a lot of prior decisions," South Texas College of Law professor Charles "Rocky" Rhodes recently told The Texas Tribune. "You really have to understand these ordinances more in terms of trying to scare people, rather than something that will be able to be enforced in court." Correction: A previous version of this story misidentified County Clerk Lisa Smith. This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Cochran County, Texas adopts abortion ban, travel for procedure Ex-Donald Trump attorney Michael Cohen expressed concern over testifying in the former presidents civil fraud case following threats made against people linked to his legal cases. Cohen told MSNBCs Joy Reid that he has a strong suspicion the governments witnesses wont show up to testify if the courts do not rein in Trumps online attacks. Listen, Im considering it myself, despite the fact that Im under subpoena, Cohen said. I dont have to put my life on the line simply because Donald Trump cannot control himself and the courts are not controlling him. Trump has frequently directed his ire toward the judges, prosecutors and witnesses in his civil and criminal cases. One of the individuals Cohen pointed to as coming under Trumps rage is U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan, who is overseeing Trumps federal criminal case in D.C. tied to his actions after losing the 2020 election. The former president has said there is no way I can get a fair trial with Chutkan presiding over it, and he later moved for her to recuse herself from the case. Chutkan denied Trumps bid for her recusal Wednesday. After taking over Trumps case, Chutkan received at least one death threat that resulted in charges. The Justice Department has moved for a narrow gag order on Trump over disparaging and inflammatory remarks about nearly everyone involved in the case. Trump has also taken aim at Judge Juan Merchan, who is handling the former presidents hush money case in Manhattan, referring to him as a Trump Hating Judge and claiming Merchan HATES ME. The New York judge has also received threats. They have to do something to curb Donald Trumps language, Cohen said, iterating concern over threats being acted upon. He should not be permitted to do what hes doing This is all obstruction of justice and witness tampering. Cohen, who once served as vice president of the Trump Organization and as Trumps personal lawyer and fixer, is listed by New York Attorney General Letitia James as a fact witness in her sweeping civil fraud case against Trump and his businesses. The New York attorney generals lawsuit alleged decades of fraud by Trump, his adult sons and the Trump Organization, asserting they sought lower taxes and better insurance coverage by falsely inflating and deflating the value of its assets. A New York judge on Tuesday found Trump liable for fraud, stripping some of his business licenses and ordering that an independent monitor continue to oversee the Trump Organization. The judge also rejected Trumps effort to toss the entire case, allowing the remaining elements of the sprawling case to proceed to trial as soon as next week. James has attributed the start of her offices investigation into Trump and his businesses to Cohens 2019 testimony before Congress, where he claimed the former president significantly overstated his wealth before he took office. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. FILE - Education Secretary Miguel Cardona speaks during an interview with The Associated Press in his office at the Department of Education, Sept. 20, 2023, in Washington. The Biden administration is asking America's colleges to renew their efforts to make campuses more racially diverse, urging schools to boost scholarships and minority recruiting and to give meaningful consideration to the adversity students face because of their race or finances. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) WASHINGTON (AP) The Biden administration is asking America's colleges to renew their efforts to make campuses more racially diverse, urging schools to boost scholarships and minority recruiting and to place meaningful emphasis on the adversity students face because of their race or finances. The Education Department issued a report Thursday promoting strategies to increase diversity in the wake of a Supreme Court decision barring colleges from considering the race of applicants in the admission process. It fulfills a request from President Joe Biden to help colleges advance diversity without running afoul of the court's decision. In announcing the report, Education Secretary Miguel Cardona called on state and local education leaders to break down barriers for underserved students and reimagine pathways into higher education. Our future is brighter when we prepare students of all backgrounds to lead our multiracial democracy together, Cardona said in a statement. The guidance amounts to a suggestion with no binding authority. The federal government has little power to make demands of colleges and universities without an act of Congress or new federal rules. It was issued the same day a House Education and the Workforce subcommittee discussed the future of college admissions after affirmative action. Republicans warned that they will be watching for colleges that defy the courts decision. To those at institutions who think the Supreme Court ruling is a pretty please ask, this committee will keep a close eye as the 2024 application process unfolds, said Rep. Burgess Owens, R-Utah. Racism, hidden or overt, will not be tolerated by this oversight body. Rep. Bobby Scott, D-Va., countered that affirmative action helped level the playing field in admissions, balancing policies that favor the wealthy, including legacy admissions, in which children of alumni and donors are favored in admissions. Without policies to counterbalance the discriminatory factors, he said, the outcome of the system will remain discriminatory. Much of the new guidance echoes an August letter issued by the departments of Education and Justice clarifying that colleges can still legally work to admit diverse student bodies. The report encourages colleges to do more to recruit students of color. It suggests targeted outreach in areas with high concentrations of students of color and low-income families, and it pushes colleges to admit more transfer students from community college, which admit higher numbers of Black and Latino students. It also calls for more financial aid based on a student's need and says states and colleges need to make application forms simpler and more transparent. Notably, the administration said it strongly encourages colleges to consider any adversity, including racial discrimination, that a student has overcome, reinforcing an idea embraced by some colleges but criticized by opponents as a loophole to consider race indirectly. Biden previously pitched adversity as a new standard in admissions after the courts decision, and some colleges have added application essays about adversity or overcoming challenges, opening the door for students to voluntarily discuss their racial background. The report notes that although there's no commonly accepted way to measure adversity, admissions offices can consider an applicant's neighborhood or high school to put their achievements into context. Colleges can also examine whether a student endured discrimination, something that can be conveyed through essays, interviews and letters of recommendation, the department said. An applicants personal experiences with hardship or discrimination, including racial discrimination, and their ability to overcome those experiences may speak to their perseverance and resilience, the guidance said. The Supreme Court appeared to leave room for that kind of maneuver. The decision said that while schools cannot directly consider an applicant's race, nothing stops colleges from considering an applicants discussion of how race affected the applicants life" as long as the discussion is tied to the student's "quality of character or unique ability. The Education Department is also pushing colleges to rethink legacy admissions and other practices that may hinder racial or socioeconomic diversity. It pointed to a growing body of evidence that legacy admissions may further advantage privileged communities in a manner that is at odds with expanding educational opportunity. The report held up Johns Hopkins University as a success story. After it abandoned legacy admission in 2014, the school saw its share of Black, Latino, and Native American students increase from 18% to 34%, and its share of low-income students also increased. Biden and Cardona have repeatedly urged schools to end legacy admissions as a matter of fairness. Cardona recently told The Associated Press he would consider using whatever levers he can to discourage legacy admissions, although it's unclear what action he will take. The report encourages colleges to rethink their reliance on standardized tests such as the SAT and ACT, and admissions preferences for applicants who apply early and commit to attending. Both practices have been criticized for favoring wealthier applicants who have access to test prep and may be less reliant on financial aid. Colleges are being encouraged to take up the recommendations in hopes of avoiding a sharp decrease in the enrollment of students of color. Some states that previously ended affirmative action saw steep drops in the enrollment of Black and Latino students, including in California and Michigan. ___ The Associated Press education team receives support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. The AP is solely responsible for all content. A new coffee shop is moving into downtown Columbia, but the unique business model has some disability rights advocates concerned. Bitty and Beaus Coffee is a national chain of coffee shops that predominantly hires people with developmental and intellectual disabilities such as Down syndrome and autism. The company boasts the slogan a human rights movement disguised as a coffee shop. Leaders at Able SC, a statewide policy group that advocates for disability rights, were concerned about the February 2022 announcement that Bitty and Beaus planned to open a shop in Columbia, the groups CEO Kimberly Tissot said. Businesses that employ only people with disabilities have been known to pay below minimum wage because of a federal waiver that allows it. Tissot said she also worried that disabled employees would be used like props, meant to offer customers smiles and hugs but not to be taken seriously as people. But Bitty and Beaus Coffee co-founder Amy Wright, who founded the business with her husband in honor of two of her children who have Down syndrome, said those concerns come from misconceptions, not facts, about the business. A new downtown business Amy and Ben Wright opened the first Bitty and Beaus Coffee in Wilmington, N.C., in 2016, after learning that between 70-80% of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities were unemployed. Three of the couples four children have a disability. Their youngest children, Bitty and Beau, have Down syndrome, and their daughter Lillie has autism. Imagine any other group where seven of 10 people didnt have jobs; people would take to the streets, Ben Wright testified before the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging in 2018, during a hearing focused on policy for people with disabilities. And yet in regards to this group of unemployed people, there is no outrage from the majority of the American citizenry, only bewilderment on the faces of those who endure this discrimination and hopelessness in the eyes of those who love and advocate for them. The year prior, Amy Wright received the 2017 CNN Hero of the Year award for Bitty and Beaus, an honor bestowed to everyday people making a difference in their communities. Today, their coffee chain has 19 stores in 11 states, including one in Charleston. In February 2022, the company announced it was planning to open a shop in Columbia in partnership withMargaret Deans Grantz, the co-founder of Camp Cole, a Midlands camp and retreat center that serves people with illnesses and disabilities. Grantz said she is no longer planning to open the shop. Now, another family is working with the Wrights on the store. Amy Wright categorically denied any accusation that the company pays below minimum wage, adding that the company has always been opposed to that practice. South Carolina passed a law in 2022 banning any business from using the federal waiver that allows some people with disabilities to be paid below minimum wage. Wright said even without that law her company would pay employees above minimum wage. Some of the skepticism about Bitty and Beaus comes from a 2016-2017 incident in which Bitty and Beaus Coffee was cited by the U.S. Department of Labor for an unpaid internship program. At the time, the company started prospective employees on a six-week unpaid internship to see if they were a good fit, Wright said at the time. Unpaid interns cant participate in interstate commerce, so when some of the interns handled credit card transactions for out-of-state customers, it violated the law. The company was ordered to pay $2,200 in back wages for some of the interns, but Wright said they paid the back wages for all the interns and then eliminated the unpaid internship program entirely. Now, they staff the stores by holding one-day hiring events. No prior experience is necessary, and applicants are asked about their goals and what skills they want to focus on growing, Amy Wright explained in an interview with The State. Most stores start with 20-30 employees and then grow as necessary, Wright added. But critics say even if employees are earning a fair income, the store sends the wrong message to people without disabilities. It kind of plays off the heartstrings to get people to open their wallets, said Crush Rush, a local disability rights advocate and Able SC board member. It becomes inspiration porn. Inspiration porn The Australian disability rights activist and comedian Stella Young coined the term inspiration porn in the early 2010s. In a 2014 Ted Talk, she elaborated on the concept using anecdotes from her life. Because of a genetic disease, Young used a wheelchair most of her life. In her talk, she explained that she would often be acknowledged as exceptional for doing normal tasks, such as helping her mom at the family business. One day she was teaching a high school class and a student asked when her motivational speech was going to begin. But she wasnt there to give a motivational speech, she was there to teach on defamation law. And thats when it dawned on me: This kid had only ever experienced disabled people as objects of inspiration, Young said in her Ted Talk. For lots of us, disabled people are not our teachers or our doctors or our manicurists. Were not real people. We are there to inspire. Local disability rights advocates say Bitty and Beaus creates an environment where inspiration is the goal. The idea of inspiration porn is having depictions that are meant to use disabled people to make non-disabled people feel good or reduce disabled people into some kind of, like, objects of inspiration, said e.k. hoffman, the assistant director of New Disabled South. New Disabled South is a regional organization that advocates for a variety of policy solutions across the South to address discrimination and other problems faced by many people with disabilities. The groups leaders, including hoffman, all have disabilities. Something that is really important and has long been a rallying cry in the disability rights movement is nothing about us without us, hoffman said, adding that many people feel Bitty and Beaus doesnt have enough disabled people in leadership positions. Its not a very good representation of our community, said Carrie McWhorter, founder of the mutual aid organization for people with disabilities Access Abolition SC. McWorter has physical and intellectual disabilities. You dont have to put people with disabilities on display to prove theyre capable. Wright argued that the business actively combats inspiration porn by letting employees speak for themselves. If you go to our social media pages, you will see video after video of (employees) in their own voice talking. They have the freedom to share their experiences, their achievements, their struggles in their own words, which is the exact opposite of what inspiration porn is, Wright said. She added that employees with disabilities are often promoted to leadership positions in the stores and that several of their corporate leaders also have disabilities. Employment first The concerns are more than philosophical, Tissot and others say. Able SC recently won a long-fought victory to get South Carolina to adopt employment first policies geared toward connecting people with disabilities to the general workforce. In 2022, just 21% of people with disabilities across the U.S. were employed, compared to more than 65% employment for people without a disability, according to federal data. Employment first is a nationwide policy movement that encourages social services workers to look at helping disabled people find work before jumping to public assistance programs. Bitty and Beaus reports employing more than 400 people, most of whom have disabilities. Despite the data, Tissot sees the business and those like it as counterproductive because she said the business segregates disabled people. She said that segregation can lead non-disabled people to think disabled people can only succeed in those environments. Tissot has a physical disability and a 13-year-old son with an intellectual disability. Im seeing a lot of parents who have children with intellectual and developmental disabilities speak for their children, but saying, Oh, Im so happy, now my son or daughter has a place to work. Tissot said. They have a place to work anywhere. We just have to educate the community. Wright disagreed with the characterization that Bitty and Beaus is a segregated environment, noting people with and without disabilities work at every store. She also argued that part of Bitty and Beaus mission isnt to necessarily keep people employed at the coffee shop permanently, but to show customers that people with disabilities are more capable than many may assume. The point of Bitty and Beaus Coffee is not that people with (intellectual and developmental disabilities) can work in coffee shops, but that people with and without (disabilities) could and should be working together, shoulder to shoulder, in almost every type of business, Ben Wright said during his 2018 Senate committee testimony. Amy Wright added, I really wish those same disability advocates would take that frustration they are feeling and direct it toward other businesses in Columbia that dont hire anyone with a disability. Future plans There are plenty of people celebrating Bitty and Beaus move into Columbia. A Facebook post by the business has been shared more than 500 times announcing that a Bitty and Beaus coffee shop would be moving into 1001 Gervais St., the former site of Marble Slab Creamery. Special Olympics South Carolina has shared positive reactions to the news, and a number of people have reported wanting their children to work at the store. This is fabulous & much needed in our capital city! wrote one commenter. This is wonderful news. I cant wait to be a regular customer. Rosemary cant wait until she is old enough to be an employee! another person wrote. Woohoo we cant wait my daughter is so excited to be apart of your team, another commenter wrote. Critics say there were also plenty of negative comments on that post, but the comments have been deleted, they claim. Those critics say they wont be supporting the business and that they plan to continue urging residents to avoid it once it opens. An opening date has not yet been announced. Its non-disabled people trying to put a Band-Aid on something, but were not asking for a Band-Aid. Were asking for a systemic fix across the board to ensure that people with disabilities really and truly do have equal employment opportunities, Tissot said. Editors Note: e.k. hoffman uses lower-case letters to spell their name. A CVS pharmacist administers vaccinations for COVID-19 and seasonal flu to Angie Chandler in Orlando, Florida, on Sept. 15, 2023. Pharmacies across the U.S. have started administering new COVID-19 boosters. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel ) On Sept. 11, the Food and Drug Administration approved an emergency use authorization for updated COVID-19 vaccines. The next day, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a statement that recommended updated vaccines for people 6 months and older. As these new vaccines become available, it is critical that we improve access to save lives. We know that vaccine effectiveness and immunity wane over time, which increases susceptibility to infection and the potential for the virus to spread and mutate. The new booster targets XBB.1.5, a recent omicron strain variant, and protects against serious illness and hospitalization, which have been increasing recently. We have a new effective thing to fight infection, but its effectiveness relies on access shots being available and uptake shots in arms. Advertisement Implementation scientists are a missing puzzle piece to this success. Our job focuses on studying approaches to increase the uptake of effective health services and equitably deploy such services in real-world settings. Implementation science helps bridge the gap between knowledge (what we know) and practice (what we do) through a few key steps. First, we must understand what makes it difficult or easy to implement the thing. Second, we need to co-design strategies to implement the thing. Third, we need to test the impact and effectiveness of those strategies for continuous improvement. To date, 70% of all individuals in the United States have completed the primary COVID-19 vaccine series, of which only 20% of people received a COVID-19 booster. Years since the initial approval, uptake is still poor. Previous trends suggest suboptimal coverage of the new booster. This gap in adoption will exacerbate poor health outcomes, especially among minority communities. We need to figure out how to get COVID-19 vaccines, particularly booster doses, to the people who need them. Advertisement This dilemma is at the heart of problems that implementation science aims to solve. Numerous studies identified barriers to implementation of COVID-19 vaccines, such as health literacy, vaccine hesitancy and transportation. Missing from prior vaccine distribution efforts was acknowledgment that there is this field of science that can help address such barriers. The former federal Coronavirus Task Force consisted of some of the nations top clinicians. However, the scientists who dedicate their careers to developing implementation strategies did not have a seat at the table. [ Editorial: Vaccines save lives. If your doctor recommends them, dont hesitate. ] As we embark on this next rollout of vaccines, we must harness the science of implementation and center the voice of implementation scientists. In implementation science, context is queen. Our context since the start of the pandemic has evolved. The federal COVID-19 public health emergency declaration has ended. Vaccination mandates no longer exist. Vaccines are now commercialized. We are faced with greater structural barriers than the first rollout of vaccines one that resulted in little success, particularly for booster shots. This evolution in context further highlights this imperative. Chicago Tribune Opinion Weekdays Read the latest editorials and commentary curated by the Tribune Opinion team. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy > We must appoint implementation scientists to positions of leadership on task forces working to roll out vaccines. A successful public health response requires the perspectives of individuals with expertise on how to increase the equitable reach of effective interventions. We must invest in implementation research. The National Institutes of Health has increased investment in the field, but the allocation for discovery-oriented science still far surpasses the study of implementation. Preparation for the next public health emergency requires a shift in focus on developing the evidence base of rigorous implementation approaches now. We must increase awareness of the field among clinicians, patients and organizations to benefit from the value of implementation science and in the reshaping of vaccine adoption. The rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines has added effective tools to our public health tool kit. However, new vaccines that sit in freezers will serve little purpose to our community. Advertisement We cannot afford to wait until the next wave of COVID-19 cases incapacitates our health system or the next public health crisis emerges. Implementation scientists require a seat at the table to help shape decisions to save lives and improve public health. Amelia E. Van Pelt, Sara Becker and Rinad S. Beidas are implementation scientists at Northwestern Universitys Feinberg School of Medicine and Center for Dissemination and Implementation Science. Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com. A Columbia man charged with first degree murder involving a domestic violence incident appeared before Maury County General Sessions Judge Bobby Sands Wednesday via video conference call from the Maury County Jail. The man charged with killing a Columbia woman in a domestic dispute made his first appearance before Maury County General Sessions Judge Bobby Sands Wednesday via video conference call from the Maury County Jail. On Sept. 12, Columbia police officers found Carole Anne Coleman, 48, deceased when they arrived on the scene at the 100th block of Woods Drive at approximately 10:30 p.m. James Edward Davidson Jr., 59, was later charged with first degree murder and aggravated assault resulting in death, according to the warrants. More: Columbia police reports domestic violence death, plans murder charge Warrants were served following Davidson's treatment at Vanderbilt Medical Center for several self-inflicted wounds, police previously said. According to the Sept. 13 arrest warrant, Coleman, who is referred to as Davidson's "girlfriend" was struck "multiple times with a blunt force object causing severe head trauma," which resulted in death. Coleman was once crowned Mule Day Queen in 1992, Miss Maury County and Fairest of the Fair in Maury County. Born in Nashville, Coleman was a graduate of Columbia Central High School, where she served as a class officer and entered Belmont University on a cheerleading scholarship as well as attended Middle Tennessee State University. First court appearance on charges Davidson faced Sands by a video conference call Wednesday seated in a wheelchair, wearing an inmate uniform with orange and white stripes. Sands explained he did not set bond due to the severity of the charges, citing that Davidson was on probation involving a previous domestic assault charge when the September incident occurred. Davidson was appointed an attorney at the public defender's office in the 22nd District in Maury County. Previous probation After pleading guilty to a domestic assault charge in July, Davidson entered into a plea agreement of 11 months and 29 days suspended to probation, according to an Order signed by Sands on July 27. Though, bond conditions were "terminated per victim request," the Order said. The case was set for review July 25, 2024. "There is a lengthy history of domestic violence on file with the Columbia Police Department, involving Mr. Davidson and Ms. Coleman," a CPD media release said ahead of issuing the present charges. The next court date is set for Oct. 11 at 1:30 p.m. in General Sessions Court to determine a preliminary hearing. Kerri Bartlett is editor of The Daily Herald. For daily updates to your inbox, subscribe to the Herald newsletter here. This article originally appeared on The Daily Herald: Columbia man charged with murder in domestic case appears in court Having heard all the evidence in a weeklong murder trial, a Columbus jury soon will decide the guilt or innocence of the man accused of gunning down his estranged girlfriends new beau during a 2:30 a.m. shootout in an apartment bathroom. Jurors have heard witnesses detail the chaos that ensued Sept. 7, 2021, when Quincy Tyrek Wade entered a Buena Vista Road apartment looking for Channa Powell, who was pregnant with his child, and got into a shootout with Maurice Vaughn Jackson, who was there with her. Armed with 9-millimeter pistols, the two men each fired eight shots until their guns jammed. Wade afterward fled, shot through the legs. Jackson died on the bathroom floor from a shot through the center of his chest, with Powell screaming and cradling him in her arms. Besides murder, Wade is charged with aggravated assault for threatening Powell with his gun, and with home invasion for entering the apartment uninvited. His defense attorneys, law partners William Kendrick and Mark Shelnutt, claim Wade shot Jackson in self-defense, after Jackson shot him first. Prosecutors Don Kelly and Meghan Bowden maintain Wade cannot stand on a self-defense claim when he by law was the primary aggressor, having initiated the confrontation that triggered the shootout. The prosecution questioned its last witnesses Thursday. The defense called no witnesses, and Wade declined to testify. Superior Court Judge Bobby Peters scheduled closing arguments for Friday morning, after which jurors will deliberate on a verdict. Wade faces life in prison if convicted on all the charges. Georgia Bureau of Investigation firearms expert Catherine Jordan testifies about the guns recovered after the shootout that killed Maurice Vaughn Jackson. The evidence Witnesses testified that Powell broke up with Wade after he questioned whether the child she carried was his, and began spending time with Jackson, with whom she worked. We werent boyfriend and girlfriend, she told a detective after the shooting, but acknowledged she and Jackson had become increasingly intimate. The day before the shooting was Labor Day, when they went to a cookout with Jacksons family, returning around 12:30 a.m. to a friends Patriot Place apartment at 3700 Buena Vista Road, where they were spending the night. Thats where Wade banged on the door some time after 2 in the morning. As she and Jackson hid in the bathroom with their host, Wade entered through an unlocked patio glass door, kicked the bathroom door in, and confronted Powell with his gun. The woman who rented the apartment fled as Wade came in. One point of contention is what happened next, as Wade faced off with Powell, and Jackson hid in the bathtub behind a shower curtain. In a police interview on Sept. 16, 2021, Powell said of Wade: He put the gun to my stomach and said, Ill kill you and the baby. But that detail was not mentioned when detectives first questioned her, and Kendrick argues she added that threat later, after Wade had claimed self-defense during his first court hearing Sept. 10, six days earlier. Kendrick saw the alleged threat as a way to justify Jacksons shooting Wade first, as Georgia law allows using deadly force to prevent the commission of a felony. Powell in court testified that after Wade threatened her, Jackson pulled the shower curtain aside, and the gunfire began. She couldnt say who shot first. I just heard the gunshots going off, she told police. As Wade left, she followed him, snatching his Smith & Wesson pistol and dropping it on a couch. The pistols clip or magazine, with eight bullets still inside, later was found under Jacksons body on the bathroom floor. Jacksons Glock still had three live rounds in it, police said. Each gun had a spent cartridge lodged in the firing chamber. Powell ran back to the bathroom, using a towel to put pressure on Jacksons chest wound as she held him in her arms. She said he took a deep, deep breath and passed away. During her interview that morning with Detective Sherman Hayes, she said she had wanted to drive Jackson to the hospital herself, rather than wait on an ambulance, thinking that could have saved him. Chief Assistant District Attorney Don Kell, left, questions police Detective Sherman Hayes, right, as Judge Bobby Peters listens during Quincy Wades murder trial. He wouldnt have made it, Hayes told her. You did everything you could do. She said she had flashbacks of Jackson dying in her arms every time she closed her eyes. He was always kind with me, she told Hayes. Wade was not, she said: He threatens me all the time. We fight all the time. Kendrick repeatedly has described their relationship as toxic. Witnesses have testified that Wade once shot her in the thigh, and she previously stabbed him after he kicked her, during an argument. The defense has claimed this pattern of conflict shows Wades entering someone elses home to fight with Powell was not out of the ordinary. The prosecution has countered that regardless of their relationship, Wade had no authority to enter the apartment to hunt Powell down. Going to LaGrange Among the trials last witnesses Thursday was Xavier Stevenson, who was Wades roommate in 2021, sharing an apartment on Ruben Street. Thats where Wade went in his Dodge Charger after the shooting, waking Stevenson, who testified Wades injuries were obvious when he walked in. Thats when I seen how bad his wounds were, and I said, You got to go to the hospital, he said. But instead of going to a Columbus emergency room, they drove 45 minutes to LaGrange. Knowing Wade had left a blood trail from the Patriot Place apartment to his car, police had warned local hospitals to be on the lookout for a gunshot victim. First LaGrange police came to question Stevenson, who lied, telling them he and Wade had been to Atlanta, where Wade was wounded trying to buy marijuana. He corrected that account later when Columbus police interviewed him. Kendrick had Stevenson testify that on their drive to LaGrange, Wade told his roommate that Jackson shot him first, and he shot back to defend himself. The prosecution has said that who shot first doesnt matter, as Wade was committing a felony from the time he entered the apartment with a gun, and Jackson legally was authorized to shoot to stop him. Xavier Stevenson, right, testifies during the murder trial of his former roommate, Quincy Tyrek Wade. State Sen. Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas), became more of a gun-control advocate after a reported shooting threat at her daughter's high school. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) Freshman Sen. Catherine Blakespear was at the state Capitol in the Senate chamber when her ninth-grade daughter, Ava, texted. She was at school hiding under a desk. Ava was trying to protect herself during a mass shooting threat at her public high school in Encinitas, a picturesque beach town north of San Diego. Blakespear, a Democrat who represents a very competitive district, briefly mentioned this scary story Tuesday at a Sacramento news conference where Gov. Gavin Newsom signed 23 bills aimed at reducing gun violence. Two of the measures were Blakespears. Thousands of families are going through this, she told the gathering of legislators, gun control activists and reporters. It doesnt have to be this way. We dont have to normalize gun violence. Later, I called Blakespear for more details about her frightening experience as a mom who lived the nightmare of a daughter possibly becoming another mass shooting victim. Turns out, the senator is a former colleague, a Times reporter in the Ventura bureau for two years around 2000. She left to cover the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics for the Associated Press. Then she wised up and went to law school. Blakespear returned to her hometown of Encintas and practiced law, got involved in local politics, won a city council seat and became mayor. In November, she was elected to the Legislature, edging out a Republican. She was on the Senate floor in spring when her daughter texted. Shes saying, I cant believe this is happening, the senator recalls. Im saying all the things you say as a fearful parent, mindful that guns are the biggest killers of kids. You can hear helicopters flying, sirens blaring. Read more: Newsom signs gun laws that add new taxes and limit where owners can carry firearms A teacher was at the door yelling into the corridor, You get in this classroom. If there are gunshots, Im locking the door and not opening it for anyone, Blakerspear says. Another teacher was pointing to low bushes in the dirt as places to hide. It was like Lord of the Flies society breaking down. This is what our society has become, even in California she continued. This is what school is today. Its horrifying. Avas school had received what it deemed a credible human threat. But there was no shooter. It inspired the new senator, however, to become even more of a ardent gun control crusader. One of her bills signed into law is significant. It will require, starting in 2028, that all semiautomatic pistols sold in California new or used be equipped with microstamping technology. That technology will enable law enforcement to more easily trace bullets and cartridges to guns used in crimes. The Legislature thought it achieved this several years ago by requiring microstamping unique traceable markings on all new models of handguns. But gunmakers got around the law by not introducing any new models in California. The new law will require microstamping of any semiautomatic model that is sold. The senators other bill is less ambitious. It merely requires gun dealers to post warnings about the danger of having a firearm at home. Research has shown its more dangerous to have one than not due to accidents, suicides and domestic violence. Blakespear is among the growing number of Americans who are touched by gun violence or the threat of it. The Public Policy Institute of California reported in July that, based on polling, nearly two-thirds of Californians are concerned about the threat of a mass shooting in their community. And one-quarter of people worry almost every day that they or a loved one will be a victim of gun violence. These numbers are bound to escalate, increasing pressure on lawmakers to control weapons. Regulating types of firearms, who can obtain them and requiring substantive background checks are needed controls many gun owners can support. But the latest batch of new laws seems to be the first time that the California governor and Legislature, in one particular case, have targeted law-abiding gun owners, not criminals. A new law to impose a first-in-the-nation 11% state excise tax on firearm and ammunition sales may further drive a wedge between practical gun owners and reformers. And without compromise there probably will never be an end to gun violence in America. At the bill signings, a reporter pointed out to Newsom that hed opposed tax increases in the past. So why did he agree to impose a new gun tax? Read more: Column: California Democrats misfired by passing proposed tax on guns and ammo Well, this is for me a little different, the governor replied. Theres not a general income tax, not a corporate tax. This is, from my perspective, more of a sin tax. The cost borne by the taxpayers for gun violence is off the charts. So its a small price to pay. This is pretty de minimis. Owning a gun is not a sin. Newsom may have difficulty explaining his comment in 2028 if he runs for president in such hunting-culture battleground states as Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Georgia. The gun tax will finance some very worthy, proven gun violence prevention programs. But as Ive previously written, theyll benefit all Californians and should be funded by everyone. Newsom notes that the biggest current obstacle to reducing gun violence is the federal court system, especially the highest court. Several major California gun controls on large capacity magazines and assault weapons are in danger of being killed by federal courts. Dont get me started about how corrupt the Supreme Court of the United States is, Newsom said. The gun lobby already has filed a lawsuit challenging one of the biggest bills Newsom signed: A law to resume restrictions on carrying concealed loaded weapons. California can keep cranking out more gun controls. But until the courts change and the gun haters and gun addicts agree on practical solutions mothers such as Blakespear will keep being texted by their children hiding under a desk. 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. The United Auto Workers went on strike against the Big Three car manufacturers earlier this month. The historic labor stoppage could have broad ramifications for the economy, the labor movement, and beyond but its already having an impact on the 2024 presidential election. Donald Trump , who has long been trying to win support of the union, traveled to Michigan on Wednesday to speak to autoworkers as his Republican primary competitors debated in California. The trip comes a day after Joe Biden visited the state, where he became the first president ever to join a picket line. Biden gave limited remarks while standing next to UAW President Shawn Fain, while Trump bloviated for over an hour onstage at an invitation-only event at a nonunion auto parts factory. The forums couldnt have been more different, nor could their respective messages to autoworkers. You guys, UAW, you saved the automobile industry back in 2008 and before, Biden said on Tuesday. Made a lot of sacrificers, gave up a lot, and the companies were in trouble. Now theyre doing incredibly well, and you should be doing incredibly well too. Stick with it, because you deserve the significance raise you need and other benefits. Lets take back what we lost. We saved them; its about time for them to step up for us. Trump told autoworkers the strike is misguided and ultimately pointless, while repeatedly casting Biden as evil and himself as the industrys savior. Bidens cruel and ridiculous electrical he wants electric-vehicle mandates that will spell the death of the U.S. auto industry, Trump said. Youre negotiating a contract, youre all on picket lines and everything, but it doesnt make a difference because in two years youre all going to be out of business. Youre not getting anything. It wasnt the only time Trump railed against the impact electric cars could have on the industry, seemingly unaware that part of what the UAW is striking for is a share of the electric-vehicle economy. The only message he could communicate was that the strike is worthless, and all autoworkers need to do is vote for him next year. Your current negotiations dont mean as much as you think, Trump said. I watch you out there with the pickets, but I dont think youre picketing for the right things. The you here is misleading, though. Trump was speaking before a crowd at a nonunion plant that employs about 150 people, according to The Detroit News, although the event was stocked with 400-500 of the former presidents supporters. The outlet noted that though some held signs that read Union Members for Trump and Autoworkers for Trump in clear view of the cameras, of course at least two of the people holding such signs acknowledged that they werent union members or autoworkers. Nevertheless, Trump emphasized the importance of getting your leadership to endorse him. Fain, the UAW president, hasnt just refused to do so, hes attacked Trump at every turn. Every fiber of our union is being poured into fighting the billionaire class and an economy that enriches people like Donald Trump at the expense of workers, he said in a statement last week, after Trump announced he was coming to Michigan. Earlier this week, Fain told CNN that he found a pathetic irony in the fact that Trump was holding a rally ostensibly for union workers from a nonunion business. All you have to do is look at his track record, he continued. In 2008, during the Great Recession, he blamed UAW members. He blamed our contracts for everything that was wrong with these companies. I see no point in meeting with him, Fain added, because I dont think the man has any bit of care for what our workers stand for or what the working class stands for. He served the billionaire class, and thats whats wrong with this country. Biden seemed to acknowledge this while speaking to union members alongside Fain on Tuesday. Wall Street didnt build the country, the middle class built the country, and unions built the middle class, the president said. Thats a fact. So lets keep going. You deserve what youve earned, and youve earned a hell of a lot more than youre getting paid now. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Click here to read the full article. Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva and then-Dist. Atty. Jackie Lacey announced in 2020 the arrest of Deonte Lee Murray in the ambush shooting of two deputies. Murray was convicted Thursday of attempted murder and other crimes. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) A Compton man was found guilty Thursday of committing 10 felonies during an 11-day period that culminated in the attempted murders of two Los Angeles County sheriff's deputies. After a two-month trial, a Los Angeles County Superior Court jury convicted Deonte Lee Murray, 39, of attempted murder, carjacking, robbery, assault with a firearm and possessing a gun as a felon, said Deputy Dist. Atty. Eric Siddall, one of the prosecutors who charged Murray. The jury found true allegations that Murray used a gun in each crime and that the attempted murders of the deputies, Claudia Apolinar and Emmanuel Perez-Perez, were willful and premeditated, Siddall said. Murray was also convicted of attempting to murder a man whom he mistook for a plainclothes detective. Murray faces life in prison when he is sentenced, Siddall said. No hearing has been set because a judge must now hold a second trial on Murray's prior record; if he is found to have a prior strike, his prison term will be doubled, Siddall said. Murray's lawyer, Kate Hardie, declined to comment. Deputy Dist. Atty. Stephen Lonseth told the jury in his closing argument last week that Murray, infuriated by the killing of his best friend by sheriff's deputies, sought revenge first by raking an SUV parked outside the Compton courthouse with bullets from an assault rifle. Murray believed the man in the driver's seat was a detective, Lonseth said. In fact, he'd simply filed some paperwork at the courthouse and was participating in a Zoom meeting from his car. Upset the 2020 shooting didn't make the news, the prosecutor said, Murray walked up to two uniformed deputies, Apolinar and Perez-Perez, who were sitting in a patrol car at a Metro station in Compton. Murray shot both deputies at point-blank range before running away, according to video played for the jury. Apolinar was shot in the jaw and forearm, while bullets struck Perez-Perez's forehead, arm and hand. Murray was also convicted of robbing a man of his Mercedes-Benz and shooting him in the leg 10 days before he tried to kill the deputies. Testifying in his own defense, Murray admitted shooting all four people but claimed he hadn't intended to kill them. His attorney argued that after his friend, Samuel Herrera, was killed by deputies, Murray went on a two-day bender, fueled by cognac and methamphetamine. He was acting erratically and on impulse when he pulled the trigger, she told the jury, not out of a calculated plan to murder police officers. 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. The purchases on the towns credit card include $81 on Amazon for a Bluetooth loudspeaker, almost $100 at a Hollywood waterfront restaurant to test the menu in advance of a Christmas party and nearly $1,900 on a United Airlines flight to Nevada for a mayors conference. But rather than pointing at the town commissioner who racked up the purchases, Browards Inspector General, the county government watchdog tasked to snuff out ethics violations, said the town of Pembroke Park was at fault since it had inadequate guidance regulating the purchase cards, known as P-cards, and travel expenditures. Because the town had no standard to which we could hold the commissioner accountable, the allegation of misconduct was unsubstantiated, Broward Inspector General Carol Breece said in a statement Thursday afternoon. However, such a situation cannot continue. She warned that her memo was to impress upon the town the seriousness of its deficiencies and the risks to which it is exposing itself by continuing to permit officials and employees to use p-cards without proper controls and oversight. We hereby notice the town that, should it continue to tolerate unchecked p-card use, these risks can include the OIG in the near future undertaking an investigation into whether town commission and management members engaged in gross mismanagement and whether individual p-card users engaged in misconduct such as corrupt misuse of position, theft, or violation of the states per diem and travel expenses law. The towns officials and employees can no longer claim ignorance of the situation, she wrote. She wrote that her office would follow-up in 60 days to determine what the town has done to address the observations we make here. We condemn the failures that we observed in Pembroke Park, as they demonstrated an utter disregard for a governments obligation to guard the publics purse against wasteful spending, Breece wrote in a statement. The lack of controls means the towns credit card was and remains at risk for abuse. In March 2021, the Broward Office of the Inspector General received a tip that a town commissioner continuously misused his p-card to make purchases for his personal benefit, and the tipster gave details of 25 transactions made between September 2019 and July 2020. Investigators reviewed town records and found 200 transactions totaling $35,305.09 that included purchases for food, gas, electronics, tools, travel, and other miscellaneous items. The commissioner was not named in the report, but the inspector generals office confirmed Thursday its inquiry centered around Commissioner Geoffrey Jacobs, who is also a former mayor. Related Articles But Jacobs, when questioned whether the commissioner made purchases that were personal in nature without having a primary public or municipal purpose and whether transactions were made without his knowledge, told investigators he could not recall, or offered explanations for their purpose that bore at times just a slight connection to town business, according to the report. On several occasions, a town events coordinator asked the commissioner to pick up coffee, bagels, and pizza to feed the volunteers during town events. We noted that the commissioner did appear to, for the most part, buy bagels and coffee in bulk at Einstein Bros. Bagels, according to the report, However, his purchases also included custom bagels, such as a cheesy hashbrown bagel, spinach Florentine bagels, and a chocolate chip bagel with strawberry smear, as well as individual cold drinks. A finance director told investigators did not directly address questionable purchases as he feared that it would impact his job, according to the report. He was hesitant about seeing the commissioners credit card purchases because he questioned if the purchases were business related or personal. He spoke with the former town manager about his concerns, but nothing changed. In the end, the report noted, it was otherwise understood, You go, you do your job, you keep your mouth shut. Its that simple.' Breece said in a statement that while her office found many concerning transactions on the commissioners p-card in the sample of purchases we reviewed, it could not test their propriety given the commissioners explanations for them against the towns inadequate guidance regulating p-cards and travel expenditures. Jacobs on Thursday accused his political adversaries for filing the complaint, and told the South Florida Sun Sentinel that the town is deflecting by looking at his receipts, but he questioned other commissioners spending as well. Ive been questioning others spending but they refuse to look into it. Im the only one being targeted. Everything on my receipts is stuff for the town. For example, he said his credit card was used for the Christmas town staff and commission luncheon, so I mean, What the hell?' he said. Im working for the town, Im trying to fix this town. Lisa J. Huriash can be reached at lhuriash@sunsentinel.com. Follow on Twitter @LisaHuriash Othal Wallace awaits the verdict in his murder trial at the Clay County Courthouse on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023. A judge has rejected a motion for a new trial by a defense attorney for Othal Wallace, the man convicted of killing Daytona Beach police officer Jason Raynor. In a brief order filed Thursday, Circuit Judge Raul Zambrano denied the motion for a new trial without a hearing. The short order gives no reason for the denial, which the judge is not required to give. It simply states formulaic legal language that "after review of the motion, the contents of the court file and the applicable law," the motion was denied. A Clay County jury convicted Wallace on Sept. 16 of the lesser charge of manslaughter with a firearm in Raynor's killing. The jury spared Wallace of a first-degree murder conviction and the possible death sentence that would have come with that charge. Wallace, 31, was charged with first-degree murder in Raynor's shooting June 23, 2021. The 26-year-old Raynor remained hospitalized until his death on Aug. 17, 2021. If Zambrano had granted the motion, Wallace could have been retried on the manslaughter with a firearm charge. But he could not be retried on the first- or second-degree murder charge since he was not convicted of those. Wallace's attorneys are expected to appeal his manslaughter conviction. Wallace will face up to 30 years in prison at his sentencing, which is expected to take place within two months. 'No downside to appeal' Criminal defense attorney Aaron Delgado, who was not involved in the case, said that motions for new trials are commonly denied. But he said such motions are important for maintaining issues for appeal. It can be a crucial step in preserving your appeal and making sure that the appellate court has a good record to review, Delgado said. Delgado added: Im always going to file a motion for a new trial. But attorneys in general face a difficult task in overturning convictions on appeal. Theres no downside to an appeal for the defense, but it gets a lot harder as you work your way up the system, Delgado said. This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Othal Wallace's request for new trial denied in Jason Raynor killing Once again a federal court has ruled that Texas cannot execute a severely mentally ill man who has been repeatedly diagnosed with schizophrenia and paranoid delusions. Texas had argued that convicted murdered Scott Penetti retains enough sanity to be killed legally. U.S. District Judge Robert Pitman ruled Wednesday that Panetti is not sane enough to be executed for the murder of his in-laws in 1992. The court deemed that Panetti lacked a rational understanding of the connection between his actions and his death sentence. There are several reasons for prohibiting the execution of the insane, including the questionable retributive value of executing an individual so wracked by mental illness that he cannot comprehend the meaning and purpose of the punishment, as well as societys intuition that such an execution simply offends humanity. Scott Panetti is one of these individuals, Pittman said in his ruling. Gregory Wiercioch, Panettis defense attorney, applauded Pitman's decision saying the execution would have been a miserable spectacle. Judge Pitmans ruling prevents the State of Texas from exacting vengeance on a person who suffers from a pervasive, severe form of schizophrenia that causes him to inaccurately perceive the world around him, he said. Under the U.S. Supreme Courts precedents, all the state had to do to clear the constitutional barrier against executing the insane is prove that the 65-year-old has a rational understanding of why the state plans to kill him. The U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas held a three-day evidentiary hearing in October to determine whether Panetti was currently competent enough to be executed under this standard. Pitman determined that just because Panetti is factually aware of his conviction and sentence of death for murdering Joe and Amanda Alvarado, he doesnt have a rational understanding of his execution. In short, the Eighth Amendment demands more than a single thread of arguably rational thought in a sea of otherwise disorganized thoughts and delusions to establish that a person rationally understands the reason for his execution, Pitman said in court documents. After his wife and toddler left him to stay with her parents in 1992, Panetti fatally shot his in-laws,Joe and Amanda Alvarado, then took his wife and child hostage for hours until surrendering to police. Panetti believed he was going to be executed because of a vast conspiracy against him to cover up a pedophile ring in Gillespie County and to stop him from preaching, not because he murdered the Alvarados. The State argued that Panetti has consistently expressed an understanding that he was ultimately convicted and sentenced to death for killing the Alvarados and that was enough to prove rational understanding of his crime. Pitman disagreed with this assessment. Panettis recorded history of mental illness goes back more than four decades. Before going to prison, he had been hospitalized 14 times for psychotic behavior. He was repeatedly diagnosed with schizophrenia and found to be severely disabled, according to court records. His first recorded signs of illness came when he was 20, according to his attorneys. In the 1980s, he began expressing a delusion that he was battling Satan and buried his familys furniture in the yard to rid the home of the devil. Two years before killing the Alvarados, he was institutionalized for homicidal behavior toward his family. After Pentti's first execution date was set in 2004, the question of his competency made it to the U.S. Supreme Court. The justices in 2007 set a new court precedent with his case and raised the bar on the constitutional restriction against executing the insane. Instead of weighing whether the death row inmate simply had a factual awareness of the states reason for executing him, the court ruled he must also have a rational understanding of it as well. Gross delusions stemming from a severe mental disorder may put an awareness of a link between a crime and its punishment in a context so far removed from reality that the punishment can serve no proper purpose, Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote in the courts 5-4 opinion. After another yearslong round of reviews, the courts accepted Panetti was competent, leading to a new execution date being set in 2014. The U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals stopped it at the last minute, however, agreeing that a thorough, renewed look at his competency was warranted and his case was brought before Pitman. A former police officer has been indicted after officials say he sexually assaulted at least eight men while they were handcuffed during traffic stops. Marcellis Blackwell, 34, a former officer with the North County Police Cooperative, faces 21 felony counts, according to a Sept. 28 news release from the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Missouri. Between Nov. 8, 2022 and June 5, 2023, Blackwell is accused of sexually assaulting eight men and kidnapping seven of them, according to an indictment. Police say during traffic stops, while the men were detained and handcuffed, Blackwell fondled the men under their clothes, the indictment says. Seven of the eight men told police Blackwell kidnapped them by restraining them and taking them to an isolated location, the indictment said. It also says he turned off his body-worn camera during the assaults. In one case, Blackwell is accused of sodomizing one of the victims while he was handcuffed, the indictment said. McClatchy News was unable to find an attorney listed for Blackwell. After news broke of one victims allegations against Blackwell, seven others came forward, according to the release. Officials say they also found videos on Blackwells phone of other as-yet unidentified victims. A motion was filed to have Blackwell held in jail until trial. The motion said he victimized people he thought would be less likely to report his behavior, according to the release. The conduct alleged in the indictment is unacceptable for anyone, but infinitely more so for a police officer and when it involves handcuffed, helpless victims, U.S. Attorney Sayler A. Fleming said in the release. We still have not identified all of the men who appear in recordings on the defendants phone and Id like to encourage any potential victims to contact the FBI in St. Louis or the U.S. Attorneys Office. Blackwell faces 16 counts of deprivation of rights under color of law, namely the right to bodily integrity, and five counts of altering records in a federal investigation, the release said. Trooper sexually assaulted women in Texas and thought theyd keep quiet, feds say 90-year-old acupuncturist accused of sexually assaulting patient in North Carolina Retired music teacher and preacher found guilty of child sex crimes, MS officials say SAN JOSE (Reuters) - Costa Rican prosecutors said on Wednesday they were investigating allegations made in a Mexican newspaper that the government and drug traffickers had held talks last year in an effort to curb a spike in murders. Prosecutors will probe a potential "breach of duties," the attorney general's office said in a statement hours after El Universal published the expose, which President Rodrigo Chaves rejected as "absurd." The statement said prosecutors were investigating an international media report but did not name any targets of the investigation. This year is the deadliest ever for Costa Rica, known for decades as one of Central America's most peaceful countries, with homicides already exceeding the record high for all of last year. Citing anonymous sources, El Universal reported that Costa Rican security officials contacted local "mafia networks" linked to Mexico's notorious Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation cartels to ask them to cut the violence. President Rodrigo Chaves, during a speech, called the story "an absurd hoax" aimed at damaging the image of the country and his government. The president's office announced that Security Minister Mario Zamora has filed a criminal complaint "given the serious information revealed in the journalistic report" but did not name any targets in the complaint. "We find it highly suspicious that a news item that seeks to weaken the fight against drug trafficking is published in Mexico and not in Costa Rica," said Zamora, who told Reuters that Costa Rica was experiencing "a Mexicanization of crime" due to the influence of that country's criminal groups. (Reporting by Alvaro Murillo; Writing by Isabel Woodford; Editing by William Mallard) The first season of The Bear, a Hulu TV series about life behind the counter at a Chicago beef stand, gave the rest of the country an appetite for thinly sliced meat on wet, gravy-dipped buns. Now, one of the Italian beef sandwichs finest practitioners is taking this local culinary classic nationwide. At an investor conference on Sept. 19 in Dallas, the Portillos restaurant chain outlined plans to expand from nearly 80 outlets to an eye-popping 920, or more, over the next 20 years. Among other developments, the Chicago-based chain unveiled a new design that will reduce the size of future restaurants, streamline their kitchens and embrace drive-thru and takeout options. Advertisement We wish Portillos good luck as it brings this justly beloved hunk of Chicago goodness to far-flung markets. But what caught our eye is the companys downbeat outlook for the future of its home state. One of the main reasons Portillos cited for its planned forays into new markets across the Sun Belt is that it needs to go where the people are going and it says thats not here. Advertisement Illinois population is expected to shrink by 300,000 over the next 10 years, the chain told investors. So, to keep the beefs flowing, it needs greener pastures. As Portillos said in its presentation, Build it where you know they will come. Thats a shame for more reasons than one. For starters, Portillos will need to enter less-familiar markets, making the expansion riskier than if the company stayed closer to its beefs-loving Illinois roots. Wall Street has reacted to the plan with measured skepticism: Portillos stock price is down more than 25% since the summer. According to a transcript of its investor presentation, the chains executives expressed confidence in their ability to open successful restaurants in the Chicago area, even in out-of-the-way locations. Describing their store in north suburban Gurnee, for instance, they complained that its location is inconvenient, and all but invisible from the busy highway nearby. Doesnt matter. Like all its Chicago-area stores, the Gurnee restaurant racks up eye-popping annual sales volumes as local customers seek it out. Portillos Chief Executive Michael Osanloo told the group, Investors, you love this restaurant. It is a home-run restaurant, he said. Happens to be in the back end of a mall, very difficult to access, zero visibility. In any other state, this restaurant is a failure. In Chicagoland, it does $11.3 million. Chief Development Officer Michael Ellis explained that Gurnee does so well because its Chicago, right? Its our backyard. And while I love that destination aspect of our brand, I dont want to count on that in any way, shape or form as we go into new markets outside of Chicago. For those markets, Portillos will need to pay up for much better locations where customers wont have to hunt through confusing parking lots to find their fix of beef. Opening stores with smaller kitchens, dining rooms and staff will keep costs down for each location as well. But the key to the expansion strategy, the executives told investors, is a growing population. I like waking up in the morning and knowing that in Texas, in Florida and Arizona, youve got somewhere in the low single-digit (sales growth) coming just because of population growth, Osanloo said. Thats our strategy in a nutshell. Were going to states that are growing really fast. Portillos has opened 10 outlets in the Sun Belt so far, he noted. We think that this is where we are going to be pushing hard for the next decade. The Illinois Exodus strikes again. Advertisement Chicago Tribune Opinion Weekdays Read the latest editorials and commentary curated by the Tribune Opinion team. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy > As this page has noted for years, states that lose population lose more than just people. States in decline lose seats in the U.S. House of Representatives. They lose taxpayers to shoulder the tax burden, students to spread the costs of operating schools, homebuyers and renters and, of course, consumers to buy those juicy sandwiches. Why is Illinois shrinking even as other Midwest states eke out at least modest population gains? The weather does not explain why Illinois is in the minus column but not, say, Minnesota. To us, its obvious. Illinois has a long history of fiscal mismanagement that has led to an enormous pension debt. Along with government overspending, that massive debt propels upward pressure on income and property taxes. As fewer productive people make the state their home, an ever-greater burden falls on those remaining. In the city of Chicago, given the stated intent of the new administration, higher taxes and the associated impetus to exit feel all but inevitable in coming months. Fiscal mismanagement and high taxes arent the only reasons why Illinois loses population while other states gain, but its an obvious contributing factor, and there are steps that could help. We draw your attention to our recent series outlining possible solutions to our ongoing state pension crisis. Innovative thinking there is the only way to ease long-term tax pressures across the state and give frustrated residents a reason to stay. Portillos, see you in Arizona. Order us a No. 1 beef sandwich with fries and a drink, and maybe a Chicago hot dog on the side. Nothing like a taste of Chicago with a panoramic desert view, and without taxes that can ruin everyones appetite. Join the discussion on Twitter @chitribopinions and on Facebook. Advertisement Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com. Tasmanian tigers were hunted to extinction decades ago, but a recent scientific breakthrough has raised hope that the animal and potentially other long-lost species could one day be resurrected. Scientists were recently able to recover and sequence RNA from a roughly 130-year-old Tasmanian tiger, also known as a thylacine, preserved at a museum in Stockholm. The feat marks the first time RNA molecules have been isolated and decoded from an extinct species, according to a new study published Tuesday in the journal Genome Research. It may sound like a plot right out of a Jurassic Park movie, but the implications of the study are no mere fiction: Scientists are now one step closer to reviving not only the Tasmanian tiger, but perhaps other extinct species in the future. Record-setting trip to space: Astronaut Frank Rubio spent a record 371 days in space. The trip was planned to be 6 months A dry specimen of a Tasmanian tiger is pictured Tuesday at the Museum of Natural History in Stockholm. Scientists have for the first time recovered RNA from an extinct species, the Tasmanian tiger, raising hope for the resurrection of animals once thought lost forever. Tasmanian tigers have been extinct for decades Tasmanian tigers were a large, carnivorous marsupial that experts say went extinct about 80 years ago. Found on the island of Tasmania off Australia's south coast, the animal had distinct dark stripes running from its shoulders to its tail, as well as a dog-like head with powerful jaws and a pouch, according to the Australian Museum. At one time, the Tasmanian tiger was widespread throughout continental Australia before it became confined to the island of Tasmania closer to the time of its eradication. The animals preyed upon kangaroos and other marsupials, as well as small rodents and birds. But the predators were no match for humans, as European colonizers began hunting the species in the late 19th century to eventual extinction to prevent the animals from killing off livestock, according to the Australian Museum. A brief clip unearthed and digitized in 2020 shows what is believed to be the last remaining Tasmanian tiger living in captivity recorded in 1935. Released by Australia's National Film and Sound Archive, the footage shows a tiger named Benjamin roaming an enclosure in a now-closed zoo about a year before his death. Though eight sightings of the extinct marsupial have been reported to the Tasmanian government in recent years, none of them have been authenticated and verified. How scientists hope to resurrect the long lost species Daniela Kalthoff, in charge of the mammal collection at the Museum of Natural History in Stockholm, examines a dry specimen of a Tasmanian tiger on Tuesday. The concept of de-extinction isn't reserved solely for the realm of science fiction series like Jurassic Park. Though not the goal of the recent study, researchers said that a better understanding of the Tasmanian tiger's genetic makeup could pave the way to bring it back. That's where ribonucleic acid (RNA) comes into play. Structurally similar to DNA, the genetic material is present in all living cells and is used to convey information from the genome to the rest of the cell about what it should do. In other words, the RNA molecules are responsible for turning DNAs genetic instructions into cellular function. The Tasmanian tiger specimen that researchers chose to examine had been preserved at room temperature at the Swedish Museum of Natural History. After taking three skeletal muscle samples and three skin tissue samples, the team successfully extracted millions of strands of RNA. By studying the strands, researchers stand to learn more about the biology of the extinct species. Arachnids: Scientists discover new electric blue tarantula species in Thailand forest What extinct species have scientists tried to bring back? Paleogeneticist Beth Shapiro, at left, and Ben Lamm, co-founder and CEO of Colossal Biosciences, with an image of the dodo, an extinct bird that Colossal has announced it hopes to bring back with its biotech and genetic technology. This is not the first time that scientists have expressed hope that the Tasmanian tiger and other species once thought lost forever could be resurrected. In 2021, Colossal Laboratories and Biosciences launched with the express purpose of using gene editing to resurrect none other than the famed woolly mammoth. The research set out to reprogram elephant DNA with mammoth characteristics, like thick hair and layers of fat, to help the hybrid animals survive in the Siberian tundra. It wasn't just for vanity that the Colossal team hoped to revive the ancient behemoth: Researchers believed that if the mammoths could be created, they could revitalize grasslands in the Arctic. Since then, the genetic engineering company has also revealed intentions to research ways to resurrect the dodo and yes, even the Tasmanian tiger. Using gene editing technology on a tiger genome to create an embryo, the team hopes to eventually reestablish the Tasmanian tiger on the island of Tasmania. I now believe that in ten years time we could have our first living baby thylacine since they were hunted to extinction close to a century ago," Prof. Andrew Pask, who oversees the TIGRR Lab, said last year in a description of the project on the university's website. Researchers at the University of Copenhagen and Shantou University in China also revealed plans last year to resurrect a smaller mammal, the Christmas Island rat. 'Eight-legged roommate'? It's spider season. Here's why you're seeing more around the house Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at elagatta@gannett.com This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Extinct Tasmanian tiger's RNA recovered: Can it be resurrected? STAUNTON There is one open seat on Staunton City Council and it will be filled by a special election in November for a one-year term to complete the term of Andrea Oakes who resigned in January, 2023. Early voting is already underway. Adam Campbell and Wilson Fauber, the two candidates for the seat, were sent questions by The News Leader about themselves, their priorities if elected and the issues facing Staunton. Fauber has chosen not to respond to the questions. His campaign pointed to a story The News Leader published about a post he made on social media as the main reason for his choice. "Because of your false, negative, slanderous and biased reporting, Mr. Fauber will no longer be affording you any further interviews, comments or information including the City Council Questionnaire that we spoke about getting back to you this week," Kevin Linhares wrote in an email to The News Leader Thursday. Linhares is working on Fauber's campaign. Below are Campbell's responses. The News Leader: How would you describe your lifes journey and how it led you to run for office? Campbell: My wife and I moved to Staunton from Northern Virginia in 2014. After having children, we wanted to find a smaller town to raise our family. A place that valued sense of community, was unique in character, provided services that were important to us, and gave us an opportunity for a better work/life balance. Staunton was exactly the type of community we were looking for. Almost 10 years later and this community is our home. For me, Stauntons small town character results in a greater since of pride and desire to give back to your community. While active members of our church and serving as a leader in the Boy Scouts of America since coming to Staunton, it was my opportunity to join the Staunton Planning Commission in 2018 that I first became involved with the public process in the city. This experience has been rewarding and has help me to better understand the needs of the city and opportunities for growth and improvement. Now I seek the opportunity to apply my skills and knowledge to city leadership. Staunton is a special place. Our citys character, people, and opportunities create an exceptional community that we are fortunate to call home. We need city leadership to champion our community and embrace the needs of our citizens for Staunton to flourish. As a member of council, together we can continue to move our community forward by supporting our successes, while focusing on our needs. The News Leader: What, in your own words, are the roles and responsibilities of local government and the city council? Do you believe Staunton adequately fulfills those obligations? Campbell: The role of City Council is to lead our city forward with a shared vision for Stauntons future based on the ideals and values of our citizens. The role of city government is to implement that shared vision through the support of City Council. What Staunton has accomplished over the past 25 years is remarkable and the national accolades that we have received support this. However, we must continue this success moving forward by not only focusing on the big picture items, but by also focusing on improving the everyday needs of our citizens. The News Leader: What will be your top priorities if elected? Campbell: Improving collaboration, creating opportunities, and focusing on community benefit are the top priorities of my campaign. We need collaboration and creativity to improve city services and reduce city costs. We need to explore new city partnership opportunities, both public and private, to benefit Staunton. Increasing opportunities and encouragement for public participation will benefit Staunton through the ability to share ideas and work together to address concerns. Finally, we must ensure that public investments focus on benefiting our community and improves quality of life for all our citizens. The city must pursue opportunities beyond local revenues to increase funding for public projects that address community needs. Adam Campbell is running in the special election to fill a one-year term on Staunton City Council. The News Leader: Do you have previous experience working in government/public sector? If so, could you please describe it? Campbell: My current position with the Virginia Department of Transportation allows me to work with local governments throughout the Shenandoah Valley on almost a daily basis. I provide technical assistance to localities related to transportation planning, help communities identify transportation needs through analysis and public outreach, and work with staff and elected officials to develop solutions to those needs that will be competitive in the consideration of transportation funding. The News Leader: What additional qualifications do you think make you a good city council candidate? Campbell: The opportunity to serve on Stauntons Planning Commission for the past six years has allowed me to gain experience with city-specific issues and form professional relationships with many members of our city government, across multiple departments. Through this experience and my professional background, I have a strong understanding of public processes and how local governments function. The News Leader: What are the main issue(s) facing Staunton in general? Why? Campbell: Like most small cities, Staunton has limited resources in terms of both revenue and personnel. We need to make sure that these limited resources are being utilized efficiently and in a manner that maximizes community benefit. Not only to provide necessary services to meet todays needs of our citizens, but to also properly plan to meet the future needs of the city and to position us to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to flourish. Specific issues of need evolve over time. We need city leadership that can quickly identify and respond to those needs to ensure future success. The News Leader: Staunton City Council has made it a priority to be more business-friendly and push for more economic development, and much of that revolves around Staunton Crossing. What is your opinion of the progress at Staunton Crossing, and what other opportunities does Staunton have for economic development? Campbell: Staunton Crossing provides a unique opportunity for future economic development in the city. The size, location and amenities of the property make it an attractive candidate for new business and employment opportunities. With the citys commitment to investments in the property over the past decade, we are close to reaching the top marketing tier of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP). With the work that has been completed to date, we need to be patient and stay focused on the citys vision for the property to ensure its maximum potential and benefit are realized. The city also must focus on the needs of our existing businesses and explore opportunities to better support them, as well as new entrepreneurs and start-ups that want to bring their business to Staunton. The News Leader: Its no secret that Staunton is feeling the effects of a housing crisis. A combination of few homes being on the market and a lack of affordable housing options have made it difficult for people to move into the city. What do you see as local governments role in the creation of housing, and specifically, affordable housing? What steps can Staunton take to address this issue? Campbell: Recent actions by our City Council to develop a housing commission is a big step in the right direction. I see this commission as an opportunity to bring together citizens, industry professionals, and city staff to collaborate on creative solutions for Staunton to help address the issue of affordable housing. Additionally, while it will not increase homeownership in the city, there are numerous multifamily/apartment developments that have come through city review and approval over the past two years. These projects are at various stages in the process but are all moving forward (with several under construction) and should soon help the demand for housing options in the city. The News Leader: Every election cycle, the West End is brought up as a place that needs significant attention. In addition, Uniontowns future has become a part of the revitalization conversation around the city. What is your vision for revitalizing and further developing these areas? What steps do you see for city council to push those areas forward? Campbell: I commend recent actions of City Council to commit funding to studies in the West End and Uniontown that will evaluate redevelopment opportunities. Developing a plan of action that clearly identifies the needs and potential solutions is a necessary first step. The Uniontown Neighborhood Action Plan has been presented to the Planning Commission and City Council. The document provides a range of recommendations, both varied in cost and implementation timeframes, to address four identified goal area to support the community (Reinvestment, Sense of Community, Preservation, and Reestablishing Connections). As a topic of focus during my time on the commission, it was a positive initial step to see city leadership request an amendment to the city comprehensive plan and zoning ordinance to support the Uniontown Neighborhood Action Plan. The West End study will come next and with the recent development of the JD&R courts facility, it is an ideal time to develop a plan for a future vision and identifying the investments needed to achieve that vision. The News Leader: Do you believe city council does a good job communicating with the public? If not, how would you improve it? Campbell: As I have recently addressed in my campaign newsletter series, I believe there are tremendous opportunities to improve city communications. This begins with investing in a city Communications Manager, better organization and outreach of important community information and more opportunities for public feedback in the local decision-making process. It was very encouraging to see that the city not only recently re-advertised the vacant Communication Manager position, but also adjust the position responsibilities to put more emphasis on community outreach and engagement. More: Virginia ranks #28 in the country for Long-Term Care Services, supports for older Americans: AARP Scorecard More: Local artists pitch in for mental health Patrick Hite is a reporter at The News Leader. Story ideas and tips always welcome. Contact Patrick (he/him/his) at phite@newsleader.com and follow him on Twitter @Patrick_Hite. Subscribe to us at newsleader.com. This article originally appeared on Staunton News Leader: Staunton Council candidate Adam Campbell answers questions about city issues Hold on to your hats! A government shutdown is knocking on the door. All eyes are on Biden family finances as House Republicans open their impeachment inquiry. And last nights GOP debate was spicy, even without Donald Trump . Howdy! Laura Davis here. Its time for Thursdays news, which may or may not have been put together while I was getting caught up on the latest Kardashian drama. Lets go! But first: The Taylor Swift effect is so real. After a fan posted a photo of Swift eating chicken with ketchup and "seemingly ranch" during the Kansas City Chiefs game, Heinz joined in the fun by crafting its own concoction. The Short List is a snappy USA TODAY news roundup. Subscribe to the newsletter here. Shutdown showdown: Stay tuned The clock is ticking. With a government shutdown all but certain at this point, millions of Americans are wondering if lawmakers will actually manage to cut a deal before 12:01 a.m. Oct. 1. While the House is scrambling, working minute by minute, hour by hour, to pass spending bills, it's not looking like they'll make the deadline. A shutdown would impact the country's largest food assistance programs, federally funded preschool, federal college grants and loans, food safety inspections, national parks and more. Where do things stand right now? Here's the latest from Washington. Over two dozen young people affiliated with the Sunrise Movement, a youth climate justice group, occupied House Speaker Kevin McCarthy's office Thursday. GOP dives into Biden family business matters House Republicans are holding their first impeachment inquiry hearing on Thursday, fueled by allegations President Joe Biden has financially benefited from his family's foreign business dealings. What's the issue? GOP lawmakers have long scrutinized Hunter Biden 's work overseas, but they have yet to produce concrete evidence that shows the president personally benefited from those dealings. What's going on today: Republican lawmakers called three witnesses for the Thursday hearing, including a forensic accountant, and former assistant attorney general and a legal scholar. They have also vowed to subpoena Hunter Biden and Joe Biden's brother, James Bidens, bank records as early as this week. Catch up with our live coverage. President Joe Biden and his son, Hunter Biden, arrive at Fort McNair in Washington, D.C., on June 25. What everyone's talking about The Short List is free, but several stories we link to are subscriber-only. Consider supporting our journalism and become a USA TODAY digital subscriber today. A spicy GOP debate even with no Trump In a spirited second GOP presidential debate, Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley lashed out at their opponents on stage and even at Trump, the party's front-runner who chose to skip the event. No candidate obviously came out on top, but DeSantis and Haley stood out as among GOP candidates as the most aggressive on the debate stage. DeSantis took aim at Trump early . The governor accused Biden of being missing in action, especially amid the looming government shutdown, the United Auto Workers strike and other challenges. Haley shot back at entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy after he defended his use of TikTok. Haley told Ramaswamy TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media assets that we can have." Sleeping with a teacher? In a riskier approach, Mike Pence made a joke about sleeping with his wife. Islands on alert as Philippe grows stronger After strengthening some, Tropical Storm Philippe is forecast to move toward the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico this weekend as it drifts east of the Leeward Islands, the National Hurricane Center said Thursday morning. The storm has maximum sustained winds of 50 mph and is expected to slowly weaken over the weekend, although parts of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands could see heavy rain and potential flooding. Forecasters are also keeping an eye on a tropical wave that was even further out in the Atlantic, and will most likely develop into Tropical Storm Rina over the next couple of days. Follow the storm's path. Do Si Do in the Atlantic: Philippe, Rina could end up dancing around each other. A satellite view of Tropical Storm Philippe on Thursday morning. A break from the news Laura L. Davis is an Audience Editor at USA TODAY. Say hello: laura@usatoday.com. This is a compilation of stories from across the USA TODAY Network. Support quality journalism like this? Subscribe to USA TODAY here. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Government shutdown, Biden impeachment hearing, GOP debate: Thursdays news A local county prosecutor will be hosting a law enforcement seminar today at a local community college. >>Man facing charges after man shot, killed in front of grandchildren Montgomery County Prosecuting Attorney Mat Heck, Jr. will host the 2023 Montgomery County Prosecutors Law Enforcement Seminar today at Sinclair Community College, the prosecutors office said. It will take place both today and tomorrow. Laws are always changing, and it is important for police officers and prosecutors to keep up to date, said Heck. This seminar, which I hold every other year, goes beyond just updates on the law. This year we are also providing training on topics such as new investigative techniques, the medical effects of strangulation, a primer on who can possess and carry a firearm, and Marsys Law. >>He ran over her; 911 caller details moments after woman, baby hit by car in Dayton It will also include sessions covering case law updates, training on arrests, and search and seizure, according to the prosecutors office. I am proud that we can offer this training to not only my assistant prosecutors and local law enforcement but to municipal prosecutors and prosecutors and police from neighboring counties, concluded Heck. It is held every two years and provides important training for assistant prosecuting attorneys as well as law enforcement officers. A couple in Texas has been arrested after allegedly selling a margay cub and attempting to sell a jaguar cub in the first case charged under the Big Cat Public Safety Act, federal prosecutors said Wednesday. Rafael Gutierrez-Galvan, 29, and his wife, Deyanira Garza, 28, both of Alamo, appeared in federal court in McAllen on Wednesday, the Justice Department said in a news release. According to the criminal complaint, Rafael Gutierrez-Galvan tried to sell a jaguar cub. / Credit: Justice Department According to the criminal complaint, Gutierrez-Galvan sold a margay cub last month for $7,500 in a parking lot of a sporting goods store. This week, Gutierrez-Galvan then tried to sell a jaguar cub to the same person, allegedly instructing his wife to bring a case of cash from their home to the location of the deal, prosecutors said. While she was en route to the transaction, however, law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop and allegedly found the cash. Authorities recovered both the margay and jaguar and released images of the cubs. Gutierrez-Galvan and Garza neither of whom have a license to buy, sell, trade or transport exotic animals face up to five years in federal prison and a possible $20,000 maximum fine. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Homeland Security Investigations spearheaded the case with the assistance from Texas Parks and Wildlife and the Houston and San Antonio Zoos, officials said. The Big Cat Public Safety Act was enacted last December and bans the importation, sale and possession of prohibited wildlife species, such as tigers, jaguars and leopards. Jaguars are also listed as an endangered and are therefore protected under the 50-year-old Endangered Species Act. With only about 173,000 jaguars left in the wild, the animals are considered "near threatened," according to the World Animal Protection. They typically live in rainforests and wetlands with about half of the world's population living in Brazil. According to the criminal complaint, Rafael Gutierrez-Galvan sold a margay cub last month for $7,500 in a parking lot of a sporting goods store. / Credit: Justice Department Margays, which resemble ocelots, are "among the most beautiful and mysterious of the spotted cats in the Americas," according to the International Society for Endangered Cats. The margay is classified "near threatened" by the IUCN Red List. In Costa Rica and Mexico it is considered as "threatened," and in Argentina and Brazil as "vulnerable," according to the society. How Taylor Swift could affect the 2024 election House passes 45-day funding bill, sends it to Senate for final approval Saturday Sessions: Briston Maroney performs "Freakin' Out on the Interstate" A man created thousands of dollars in fake cash with the help of a printer, according to federal prosecutors, and he and his partner went shopping with the manufactured money in Florida. Now, the man is headed to prison, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Florida. After authorities traced the serial numbers on the counterfeit bills which prosecutors said were used to buy gift cards, food and other purchases in 2022 they were led to the Panama City couple, who were staying at a Comfort Inn in Palm Bay in November 2022, according to court documents. During the execution of a search warrant, Palm Bay police officers found around $30,000 in fake bills and a printer used to create the cash inside the man and womans Comfort Inn hotel room, where the woman was arrested, a plea agreement says. The man was arrested at a nearby restaurant and was found with more counterfeit currency, according to prosecutors and the plea agreement. When officers asked if he created the fake cash, he said counterfeit currency just prints itself, the plea agreement says. A judge has sentenced the man, 42, to one year and six months in federal prison after he was accused of manufacturing counterfeit Federal Reserve Notes, the attorneys office said in a Sept. 27 news release. He must also pay restitution to the businesses he defrauded, prosecutors said. According to his plea agreement, the businesses include Circle K, Publix, Walgreens and Winn-Dixie in Brevard, Clay, Duval, and Seminole counties. Prosecutors didnt specify how much money in fake cash hes accused of spending at those stores. The mans federal public defender, Waffa Hanania, declined a request for comment from McClatchy News on Sept. 28. Upon his arrest, the man accepted responsibility for his actions and has expressed remorse and regret since, Hanania wrote in a sentencing memo submitted on his behalf. Much of the counterfeit currency that (he) was manufacturing was of such poor quality that they were almost immediately recognized as counterfeit by the persons to whom they were presented, Hanania said, adding that his actions were unsophisticated and poorly thought out. He created the fake cash to provide for his subsistence needs, Hanania added. His partner and co-defendant pleaded guilty in June to four counts of passing Federal Reserve notes, according to prosecutors. She is scheduled to be sentenced in the case on Nov. 2. Her defense attorney, Patrick K. Korody, told McClatchy News in a statement on Sept. 28 that she immediately accepted absolute responsibility by pleading guilty without a plea agreement. Korody said his client is extremely remorseful and her life spiraled out of control and she wishes she could go back and choose a different path. The couple is serving time in state prison in connection with violating probation on multiple charges related to using counterfeit cash, prosecutors said. They were investigated by the Brevard County Sheriffs Office, the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office, the Palm Bay Police Department, the Orange Park Police Department, the Seminole County Sheriffs Office, and the United States Secret Service - Jacksonville Field Office, according to the release. Couple spent fake money all over town until officials inspected their trash, feds say Man used bleach, $1 bills and a little creativity to make $235K in fake cash, feds say Men hired homeless people to cash their fake checks, feds say. Many got arrested To say David and Susan Schwartz love Costco is somewhat of an understatement. The couple, both in their 60s, have spent 7 years visiting over 200 of the stores around the world. In September, they released their first book together, which of course is all about Costco. There are Costco super fans and then there's David and Susan Schwartz. For the last seven years, the couple, who are both in their 60s and live in New York, traveled 220,000 miles to visit over 200 Costco warehouses around the world in order to produce their first book together, "The Joy of Costco: A Treasure Hunt from A to Z," published on September 12. The book, which is self-published under the couple's own publishing house, Hot Dog Press (a nod to a beloved Costco food hall staple), is a testament to their love of the company. It provides readers with unique insights about Costco's origin story and its success, as well as showcases various regional delicacies sold in over 850 locations around the world. Putting the book together was no easy feat, but it was a labor of love for both David and Susan, who bonded over Costco after being set up by a mutual friend in 2002. David and Susan Schwartz co-wrote "The Joy of Costco," released on September 13. Lisa Pavlova "Very early on we discovered that we both shared a passion for Costco," David said. "I had been going to Costco because my parents loved Costco, and Susan's parents had loved Costco in the Philadelphia area so we both knew Costco. We both loved it." In 2016, David who had already written several books himself was mulling over ideas for his next project when Susan suggested they join forces to write about the thing they love most: Costco. It took a week to convince David because there were several challenges standing in their way, according to Susan, who formerly worked in marketing for Nabisco. The biggest challenge, besides the fact Susan had never written a book before, was how "inherently modest" Costco is, she said. "They don't advertise, they don't brag about themselves," she said. "It took us two years to meet Jim Sinegal, the surviving co-founder, and Craig Jelinek, the CEO. It took another three years to convince them that we were going to do the book, whether they liked it or not." Costco eventually came around. To David and Susan's delight, after they had printed 100,000 copies of their book in August, the wholesaler told the couple it had decided to carry copies of their book on its shelves. David and Susan have combined their love for Costco with their passion for travel Research for their book involved a lot of travel, another shared passion of David and Susan's. On top of visiting at least one Costco warehouse in 46 states, they circumnavigated the globe multiple times in order to visit hundreds of international Costco's. "We have been around the world three times, traveled 220,000 miles, been to over 200 warehouses. It's nuts," Susan said. Every time they landed in a new country, the couple said they hopped in a rental car and went "directly to Costco." At each stop, they noticed subtle differences in the warehouses, the food halls, and the bakeries, all of which are meticulously documented in their book. "It's always the same but it's always a little different," Susan said, adding that she estimated about 40% of the 3,800 curated items in each Costco warehouse are region-specific. Some local delicacies they came across and sampled included reindeer sausage in Alaska, rotisserie chicken sold with the head on in Taiwan, and golden kimchi in South Korea a particular favorite of Susan's. The couple went behind the scenes at several Costco warehouses around the world. From "The Joy of Costco," Susan Schwartz Susan and David praised Costco for giving them behind-the-scenes access to its warehouses around the world. In Sterling, Virginia, for example, they said they were allowed to observe how employees get the warehouse ready for opening, or what they like to call "showtime ready." "Official opening is 10 but they love to start open a little earlier," David said. "At 9:30 it is total pandemonium and chaos. You cannot believe what goes on. And at 9:45, boom, it's ready to go. It's showtime." The couple believes you don't need to live large to love Costco Back in the US, David and Susan try to visit Costco at least once or twice a week when they are home in NYC. Their closest store the third smallest warehouse in the US is on the Upper East Side, they said. When asked what it is about Costco that makes them love the store so much, Susan and David said it came down to the retailer's moral compass. "I can't stress enough, they do the right thing when no one's looking," Susan said. "The deeper we dug, the more we liked the company," David agreed. That said, as David and Susan acknowledge in their book, Costco's track record isn't perfect. The company made headlines, for example, when it switched to carrying only cage-free eggs after a 2006 investigation found its egg supplier housed chickens in appalling living conditions. There was also a 2004 lawsuit alleging gender bias against female employees (a settlement was reached in 2013) and accusations of animal cruelty involving its famous $4.99 rotisserie chicken in 2022. (Costco did not respond to Insider's request for comment on its past and ongoing controversies.) Nonetheless, David and Susan say they didn't personally witness anything negative about the retailer. What's more, they said that Costco's treatment of its employees is partly why they love the company. "The turnover rate of employees says it all," Susan said. "If you make it through the first year, the turnover rate is less than 9%." According to their book, employees who are paid hourly earn "over three times more than the 2023 US minimum wage of $7.25 per hour." A 2021 CNN report puts it closer to two times after Costco raised its starting salary to $17 an hour. Besides salaries and an "excellent" benefits package, detailed on its website, David and Susan say that every Costco employee in the US is given a free turkey each Thanksgiving. Costco is David and Susan's "happy place." Lisa Pavlova But whether you agree with David and Susan that Costco is a benevolent behemoth or if you view the store with warier eyes, the couple insists they've dispelled at least one rumor: That you need to live in a huge house to get the most out of Costco. "People think of Costco as a big bulk retailer that you need a huge amount of space in order to take advantage of. But we're proof that that's not quite true," David said. "When people say, 'Oh, I can't, my home isn't big enough to go to Costco.' I look at them and say, 'Well, I live in a 450-square-foot apartment. If I can do it, you can too,'" Susan said. Read the original article on Insider A couple who visited one of Disney Worlds water parks for what was supposed to be a joyous 30th birthday celebration has filed a lawsuit, alleging the trip was ruined by an extremely painful wedgie. During a 2019 visit to the Typhoon Lagoon at Orlandos Walt Disney World Resort, Emma McGuinness says she, her daughter, and her mom took a ride on the Humunga Kowabunga, a 200-foot waterslide in which riders plummet down five stories in the dark before shooting out into a pool of water. At the top of The Slide, riders are instructed to cross their legs at the ankles. Riders are not told why their ankles need to be crossed, the importance of doing so, or the risks of injury if ones ankles become uncrossed, the suit, filed by McGuinness and her husband, Edward, says. Nor are riders informed that the force of the water in the pool can push loose garments into a persons anatomyan event known as a wedgie, the suit continues. Because of a womans anatomy, the risk of a painful wedgie is more common and more serious than it is for a man. Unfortunately, thats exactly what happened, the suit says, when McGuinness became briefly airborne toward the end of the slide and suffered such a hard landing in the pool that she required hospitalization for serious injuries. She has been left with permanent injuries, the suit says, including damage to her internal organs, and has suffered scarring, mental anguish, loss of the capacity of enjoyment of life, expensive hospitalization and medical care, and loss of earnings, all of which injuries are either permanent or continuing in nature. The couple, who are asking for at least $50,000 in damages, argue that the slide is unsafe and unreasonably dangerous and that Disney was negligent because it didnt advise riders of the potential risks or the need to wear garments that would prevent wedgies. Walt Disney World did not immediately respond to The Daily Beasts request for comment. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. A private schoolgirl was stabbed to death by a teenage boy on Wednesday after she rejected his flowers, The Telegraph understands. The 15-year-old named locally as Elianna was travelling to school in Croydon, south London, when a row broke out between herself, her friends and other pupils from a local school, witnesses claim. The argument is said to have spilt out of the number 60 bus and on to the pavement outside a shopping centre, where the girl was attacked by a young man wielding a sword-like knife and wearing all black at around 8.30am. Paramedics tried to save the teenager, who residents said had had a fantastic future ahead of her, but she died at the scene. The suspect and Elianna are understood to have known each other. One girl was seen being held back, screaming: Thats my best friend, as she tried to push past the crowds to reach the wounded teenager. Police arrested a 17-year-old boy not far from the scene of the attack around 75 minutes later. Chevanice Thomas, from Croydon, said her friend witnessed the girl being attacked. Relaying the account her friend gave her, she said: He gave her the flowers and she threw them away. Her friends all dispersed when she went down. After that, the boy apparently stabbed her, blood gushing out and the police put pressure on it. She died on the spot. Beldine Kutima, who works at the Leonardo Hotel in Wellesley Road, where the incident took place, said: One of our duty managers went to get the bus, but she came back in screaming and grabbing towels from the back room. She ran out there with bin bags and towels. She was crying and in shock. Michael Fyffe, an estate agent who saw the aftermath of the attack, said: Two of the girls friends were there. One of the girls was screaming, thats my best friend. She was trying to get past the crowds to the body. Everyone was trying to hold her back to let the ambulance crew do their jobs. Parents unable to say goodbye James Watkins, a youth worker, said friends informed the teenagers family, who rushed to the scene, but were unable to get to their daughter before she died. They were unable to say goodbye, he said. They were in shock and devastated. It doesnt feel real to them. Andrew Brown, chief executive of Croydon BME Forum, was called by his colleague who had seen the girl lying on the pavement as he walked to work. The men were first and second on the scene and began doing CPR on her. Mr Brown then rang the teenagers mother, who was on her way to work when she was told what had happened. He said: I was just trying to get her to turn her car around and come back to Croydon. Thankfully I didnt have to tell her that her daughter is dying, but I just told her to take her time to park the car safely and then the police went and got her and brought her down. The teenager was a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift school, a 134-year-old girls school which charges fees of up to 19,350 a year. Absolutely incredible young lady Anthony King from My Ends, a violence reduction organisation, said he had spoken to her family in the aftermath of the attack. He said: The family and extended family are devastated, heartbroken, I cannot articulate the tears and the genuine heartbreak at what took place this morning. She had a bright future ahead of her, she was in GCSE year, Year 11, and she was an absolutely incredible young lady, very articulate, really had a fantastic future ahead of her. A statement from the school said staff were deeply shocked by the senseless and tragic death of our much-loved and valued friend and pupil. Devastated pupils were being collected from the school by parents throughout the afternoon, with students given permission to go home early and grieve in peace. Teenager held in custody Chief Supt Andy Brittain, the local police chief, confirmed that a 17-year-old was being held in custody. A note and flowers found at the scene were later taken away by police as evidence. Mr Brittain said: This is every parents worst nightmare, and I know the officers who responded, along with our emergency services colleagues, are devastated at the victims death. This is an emotion I share, and I know people across Croydon will be feeling the same. The victims family has been informed and our thoughts are with them at what must be an incredibly difficult time. He added: We remain in the early stages of our investigation. However, based on what we know so far, we believe that we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this offence. Met Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said: It was moving and humbling to meet many members of the exceptional Croydon community who have come together in support of a family now dealing with the most unimaginable grief. I cannot articulate the tears and genuine heartbreak at what took place this morning. 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. Former Irish PM calls protectionism a mistake 08:35, September 28, 2023 By Mo Jingxi ( Chinadaily.com.cn Ties: Growing trade 'win-win situation' Former Irish prime minister Bertie Ahern said it took several decades for Ireland to realize that protectionism was a fundamental mistake, and countries today should not repeat the old path. Ahern, who served as prime minister of Ireland from 1997 to 2008, made the remark in a recent interview with China Daily. Noting that a stable and healthy relationship between the European Union and China is in the interests of all, he cautioned that the idea of going away from multilateralism by imposing trade restrictions is wrong. "Back in the 1930s and 1940s, leaders in Ireland used to believe that protecting the products with tariffs was good for the people. And it was only when we did away with the tariffs and the restrictions and opened up trade (that) we developed more," he said. Now Ireland has become one of the most business-friendly locations in the world. Known by some as the Silicon Valley of Europe, Ireland is the headquarters of many global information and communication technology companies. In recent years, China and Ireland have seen their two-way trade continue to grow, with the volume reaching $23.8 billion last year, representing year-on-year growth of 3.8 percent. The results were not achieved by protectionism and restrictions, but by allowing trade and protecting intellectual property rights, Ahern said, noting that when trade figures are growing, it's a win-win situation for companies, consumers and investors. "That's good for the world. But things slow up when politics get in the way," he said, adding that some countries can always find one reason or another to work against unrestricted trade. In the latest case, despite the strong economic interdependence that China and Europe have forged over the past two decades, the European Commission recently announced an anti-subsidy probe of Chinese electric vehicle makers, a move that China believes arose from protectionism. Once the investigation is launched, Brussels, the seat of the European Union, would have to decide whether to impose provisional tariffs within nine months. "In my view, all of that is counterproductive. It doesn't work because all these things work against business in the normal way," Ahern said. He also said it would be particularly bad for small European countries such as Ireland, because they cannot offset the tariffs on products with subsidies, as big countries such as France or Germany can do. But Ahern said he believed that the Chinese government and the EU are working hard to make progress while acknowledging their differences. On Monday, Vice-Premier He Lifeng co-chaired the 10th China-EU High-level Economic and Trade Dialogue with European Commission Executive Vice-President Valdis Dombrovskis in Beijing. It was the first time that the dialogue was convened since the onset of COVID-19. According to a news release after the dialogue, the two sides reached a host of win-win results after candid and pragmatic talks on topics including macroeconomics, trade and investment, industrial supply chains and financial cooperation. "I think the best way of resolving issues is to sit down, navigate these issues, discuss them and see where they can get compromise and where they differ," Ahern said. He added that he noticed when he came to China in 1998 as the first Irish prime minister to visit the country that there weren't many European politicians coming to China at that time. "Now there are more and more prime ministers and senior officials coming," he said, adding that this helps them to become familiar with how things work in China. As a frequent visitor to China, Ahern said he has witnessed the advancement of globalization and multilateralism in the nation over the past decade. "The EU and China must work together on climate change, biodiversity, health issues, debt relief, humanitarian assistance and so many other global issues," he said. Ahern also said he is optimistic about the future of China-EU relations. Statistics show that China and the EU were each other's second-largest trading partner in 2022, and that the volume of bilateral trade reached a record-high $847.3 billion last year, despite the slow global economic recovery. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) A person moves personal belongings and bedding across a busy street next to the 8th District police station on Sept. 12, 2023, as migrants clear the sidewalk for a cleaning around the outside of the police station. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune) Thank you for the in-depth stories about migrants making their way to the United States, often by foot. Our world currently is in a crisis involving countries that do not care about their citizens, as well as people in war zones, many of whom are experiencing extreme poverty or danger from gangs. There have been large migrations in the past. My ancestors arrived here as immigrants. Yes, there are legal channels, but if your family is in danger of starving, you dont have time to wait. You act. Advertisement I understand the border states are overwhelmed. They are sending people to cities such as Chicago that professed they would welcome anyone. Reality has set in. Chicago is not prepared for this. We need solutions immediately. These are people, not pawns in a game. Advertisement First, we must put a halt to entry into our country that doesnt use legal channels. If people hear everyone is getting in, more will come, fast. Im not quite sure why the powers that be dont seem to get this fact. Second, the border states should not bear the brunt of the crisis. We all must help each other. I propose that neighboring cities can help Chicago. Here in Gary, we have many abandoned homes. We also have businesses that need hardworking employees. The city is showing many positive changes, and this could be the kick it needs to fully recover from years of abandonment. If the Genesis Convention Center could be quickly fixed from recent vandalism, it could temporarily house families. There may be an unused school or two as well. Buses and trains are there to get people to jobs. Buses run all over northwest Indiana. The immigrants need work permits immediately. Once families get work, let them see the homes on the delinquent tax list. There are many. If a family thinks it can rehab a home, give it five years to do it. There are other cities around Chicago with the same problems. They need good, hardworking people. Lets welcome our new neighbors and help them make better lives for their families here in the wonderful United States of America. Were all in this together, and we can change our world, one person/family at a time. Sandi DeVries, Gary Advertisement What about Lakeside Center? The Lakeside Center at McCormick Place has been underused for years. Would this huge facility not be a better option than tents and police stations in Chicago neighborhoods to house migrants and refugees, especially this winter? Lakeside already has experienced professionals who know how to build temporary structures, handle large crowds and provide efficient security. Lets take advantage of our existing assets to furnish a more welcoming, secure and safe environment for the thousands of migrants and refugees who at present are without and keep our money local by allowing current employees to continue working, even in down times. Keith Kalinowski, Chicago Understanding of natural law I am commenting from a Catholics view on Peter Schwartzs op-ed in Wednesdays issue (Assault of natural law morality on transgender people). All religions and spiritualities, to survive rationally for any length of time, must be based on natural law because a truly valid religious authority such as the Catholic Church tries to represent the truth of reality in partnership with the reality of Gods creation, miracles aside. The human race is still in the process of discovery regarding the scientific truths of Gods cosmic reality. Humanitys relationship with God continues to evolve. So, in relying on natural law, God expects us to use our brains, as he continues to reveal himself to us. We are learning new knowledge about our human nature and bodies every day. Im thinking of LGBTQ+ people as thats the way God made them. Jesus binding and loosing power, given to Peter and the church, is, I think, a safety valve meant by God and Jesus to make room for truths we hadnt heretofore known and considered part of the evolving development of Gods relation with humankind. Advertisement The great Jesuit and anthropologist Pierre Teilhard de Chardin wrote about our journey over time since creation to the omega point, or eventual unity with our creator. His work can be found online. As to loosing power, for example, no one goes to hell anymore for eating meat on Fridays. Regarding LGBTQ+ people, if thats the way God made them as part of the natural biological order, so be it. After all, science presently acknowledges multiple types of biological reproduction. Because these are created by God, they all operate according to natural law. The church also is beginning to consider the pleasure of marriage as being as important as the strictly reproductive part of it. I think the pope knows this, and thats why he asked, Who am I to judge? in regards to same-sex activity. Perhaps the Catholic Synod of Bishops in October will address this. I say, let our honesty and well-formed consciences be our guide. Lets keep the church out of our marital bedroom. Even church doctrine holds that the man and woman are in fact the ministers of the sacrament of matrimony. The priest is only Gods witness. Marion J. Reis, Lombard Editorial excludes Democrats In the editorial Free April Perry from J.D. Vances hostage drama (Sept. 20), the Tribune Editorial Board attempts to highlight U.S. Sen. J.D. Vances blocking of appointments as a unique partisan maneuver. While April Perry is highly qualified to be Chicagos next top federal prosecutor, and the similar obstruction of military promotions by Sen. Tommy Tuberville do have serious implications, the editorial board might have noted that these actions are not singularly to Republicans. Chicago Tribune Opinion Weekdays Read the latest editorials and commentary curated by the Tribune Opinion team. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy > Conveniently excluded are citations of recent examples from the Democratic side, including Sen. Bernie Sanders impeding the appointment of Monica Bertagnolli as National Institutes of Health director, along with a demand from Sen. Elizabeth Warren for Bertagnolli to sign ethics agreements as a condition of office. Advertisement Similarly George W. Bushs tenure in office was marked by Democrats either in the Judiciary Committee or on the full Senate floor using procedural moves to impede judicial nominees. Other examples abound. Perhaps Sen. Dick Durbin would have recommended alternative modes of protest in those cases also. Regardless, without an inclusive exposition of the record, facts omitted or selectively presented and without context can become insidious things. Glenn Gabryel, Westmont 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. Crystal Rogers disappeared in 2015. Brooks Houck, her boyfriend, has been charged with her murder although her body has never been found. Eight years after Bardstown mom Crystal Rogers disappeared, two men have now been charged in connection with the case. Brooks Houck, Rogers' boyfriend at the time and father to one of her children, has been charged with murder and tampering with physical evidence. Joseph Lawson was arrested in Nelson County and charged with conspiracy to commit murder and tampering with physical evidence in connection with the case. This is a significant break in the nearly decade-long investigation. Here's everything we know so far about the case. Crystal Rogers: Bardstown mother of five goes missing Rogers, a 35-year-old mother of five children, went missing around July 3, 2015, from Bardstown. Her car was soon found abandoned on the Bluegrass Parkway with her keys, phone and purse still inside. Rogers was not known to go anywhere without her kids, according to the FBI. "My mom is a very special woman," one of Rogers' daughters wrote on a website dedicated to the investigation. "The memory that will forever be in my heart is going to DQ and buying my momma lunch. We would always get the chicken strip basket with the toast and gravy to go with it. Going over to mamaw Martins and playing Phase 10 and Aggravation over and over while eating snacks. Since my moms been missing, life has been really hard. I always wonder what my life would be like if she and my papaw was still here." Her body has not been recovered, but she is presumed dead. Crystal Rogers' father shot and killed in Bardstown On the morning of Nov. 19, 2016, just 16 months after his daughter's disappearance, Tommy Ballard was preparing for a hunting trip with his 12-year-old grandson on family property next to Bluegrass Parkway in Bardstown. An unknown person fired one shot and hit Ballard in the chest, instantly killing him, according to the FBI. Kentucky State Police issued a news release that said they do not believe Ballard's grandson was at fault in his grandfather's death, as previously reported by The Courier Journal. Ballard, 54, had created Team Crystal, a group of Bardstown community members dedicated to finding Rogers shortly after she went missing. At Houck's arraignment, prosecutor Shane Young said investigators had recovered a gun sold by Houck's brother under an assumed name that could be a match for the murder weapon in the killing of Ballard. The FBI is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of those responsible for Ballard's murder. Brooks Houck, right, is seen talking with federal agents at his Glenview Drive residence in Bardstown, Ky. Thursday, Aug. 6, 2020. Brooks Houck charged with murder in Crystal Rogers case Brooks Houck told officers he'd last seen Rogers alive when they visited his family's farm the night before she disappeared. He was named a suspect early in the investigation, but criminal charges were not filed against him in the case until September 2023. Houck has denied involvement in Rogers' disappearance. He has been charged with murder and tampering with physical evidence, according to court documents. In the indictment, Houck is charged with murder "by intentionally or under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to human life wantonly causing the death of Crystal Rogers." His bond is set at $10 million. He has also been ordered to not have any contact with Rogers' family. What did Crystal Rogers' family say about Brooks Houck's arrest? Shortly after charges were filed against Houck, Team Crystal released a statement from Rogers' family via social media. Referencing how Houck has been named as a suspect since 2015, the family thanked lead investigators for their work and requested privacy at this time. The family continues to "pray that justice is served and we bring Crystal home." Did the Houck family interfere with the investigation? Houck's brother, Nick, was a police officer with Bardstown Police at the time of Rogers' disappearance and was fired after interfering in the investigation. The mayor of Bardstown said Nick Houck phoned his brother when he knew Brooks was being interviewed by detectives, warning that his brother "should protect himself," and that investigators "might be trying to trip him up," the Kentucky Standard reported in 2015. City officials held an administrative hearing on Nick Houck's actions and fired him a day later. In 2019, a home being built by Brooks Houck was burned down in what city officials said was an arson case. Billy Mattingly, who was then Bardstown's fire chief, said the house may have been set on fire by disgruntled employees who worked for Brooks Houck. During Houck's arraignment, Young said that Houck had family members record secret grand jury proceedings in 2015. Who is Joseph Lawson? Joseph Lawson was arrested in Nelson County and charged with conspiracy to commit murder and tampering with physical evidence, in connection with the disappearance of Crystal Rogers, according to multiple published reports. Lawson's attorney, Kevin Coleman, confirmed these reports with The Courier Journal but declined to offer any further comment. Lawson's name had not surfaced publicly in the investigation before his arrest. But WHAS reported that Houck made reference to an employee named Steve Lawson previously when interrogated by the Nelson County Sheriff's Office. The Courier Journal has not been able to confirm any relation between the two Lawsons. Joseph Lawson's next appearance in court is scheduled for Jan. 5. The FBI searched around homes in the Woodlawn Springs subdivision in Bardstown on Tuesday, August 24, 2021, in connection with the 2015 disappearance of Crystal Rogers. Multiple searches in, around Bardstown recover 'evidence' in case FBI agents, who took over the case from the Kentucky State Police and the Nelson County Sheriff's Office in 2020, have conducted multiple searches in and near Bardstown. In August 2020, more than 150 federal agents served search warrants at three sites owned by Houck and his family members. An FBI spokesman said all three locations had been searched "to various degrees" over the years. In August 2021, agents searched a subdivision where Houck owns properties. Agents reportedly were using a cadaver dog to search the subdivision and a Courier Journal photographer saw investigators using a jackhammer on the driveway of a home. The driveway was dug up, and large chunks of it were hauled out of the neighborhood in construction trucks. On Sept. 7, 2021, the FBI announced that the search in Bardstown had ended, with several "items of interest" sent to a lab in Virginia for testing. Over the past eight years, the Bardstown farm where Rogers was last seen has been a focal point of the investigation, with the most recent search being conducted in late 2022. The land, which sits on 30 acres, is owned by Brooks Houck's mouther. "We hope that the evidence collected will move our investigation one step closer to holding accountable the individual(s) responsible for Crystal Rogers disappearance," the agency wrote in an October 2022 tweet. "FBI Louisville, and all of our law enforcement partners, are committed to successfully resolving this case and giving Crystals family peace, and more importantly justice." No further information has been released on the evidence collected from these searches. How can I watch documentaries about Crystal Rogers? Rogers' case has spawned documentaries and podcasts and plenty of news coverage. Bourbon Town Mystery, produced by the HLN Investigations team, takes a deep dive into the disappearance of Rogers. HLN Investigations is a news team that produces breaking news specials and HLN Original Series within the crime and justice genre. The HLN cable channel is a spinoff of CNN. How to watch: HLN airs docu-series investigation on missing Kentucky mom Crystal Rogers Among the other past shows on the missing mother is "The Disappearance of Crystal Rogers," which premiered in 2018 on Oxygen. To watch the 2018 series, visit Oxygen's site. Where can I find podcasts on the Crystal Rogers case? Numerous podcasts have focused on the Crystal Rogers case, including: The Vanishing of Crystal Rogers Not Another True Crime Podcast (May 2021): "Sara and Danny are back this week to bring us all the details about the disappearance of Crystal Rogers from a small town in Kentucky. They go through her last sightings and all the particulars of the case, including the discovery of her car and the puzzling delay in her being reported missing. Next, they turn to the likeliest suspect in this case, and what the police investigations so far have revealed. They also go into a few recent updates on the case, and what we can expect to find out in the coming months." Bardstown (2019-20): "It's been two years since Officer Jason Ellis was killed in a deadly ambush and fifteen months since Kathy and Samantha Netherland were found murdered in their home. And another tragedy is about to hit Bardstown." CONSPIRACY: Bardstown, Kentucky Crime Junkie (February 2018): "A 35-year-old woman named Crystal Rogers went missing from Bardstown, Kentucky back in 2015. Her car was found on the side of a busy parkway with a flat tire, keys, wallet and phone still inside. Just 16 months later, while searching for answers, Crystals father is murdered in cold blood. Now, people are wondering if these two crimes are connected to a bigger conspiracy that started with the murder of a police officer in 2013. Could all of these seemingly different attacks be related?" Vanished-Crystal Rogers True Crimecast (October 2018): "Just outside of Louisville, Bardstown, Kentucky, is the epitome of a small town. Everyone knows everyone else's business, both good and bad. So how is it that Crystal Rogers could disappear without a trace? Is her disappearance linked to other murders in the area around that same time? And what about that boyfriend and his brother? So much conspiracy, so few answers. This is True Crimecast." Crystal Rogers The mHERder Podcast (January 2020): "Missing Bardstown Mom: Crystal Rogers." How to submit a tip in Crystal Rogers case If you have information related to the disappearance of Crystal Rogers, you can visit crystalrogerstaskforce.com, call the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI, contact your local FBI office or get in touch with the nearest American Embassy or Consulate. The FBI said it is "offering up to a $25,000 reward for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the individual(s) responsible" for Rogers' disappearance. Reach reporter Rachel Smith at rksmith@courierjournal.com or @RachelSmithNews on X, formerly known as Twitter. Billy Kobin contributed to this reporting. This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Brooks Houck arrested: Update from Crystal Rogers Bardstown, KY case FILE PHOTO: People wait for electricity to fill up their tanks in Havana By Marc Frank HAVANA (Reuters) - Power blackouts in Cuba are expected to increase significantly due to a lack of fuel, officials warned in a nationwide TV broadcast, worsening the country's plight as it deals with food and medicine shortages. Local governments have already begun announcing restrictions on power usage at state-run companies and other entities, including moves to postpone sporting events and university classes. "We are not going to have the level of fuel we need or what we had in previous months," Energy and Mining Minister Vicente de la O Levy told the broadcast late on Wednesday alongside the country's economy minister. The officials suggested citizens could expect blackouts of up to eight to 10 hours per day starting in October outside of Havana, where residents are usually spared power outages. The Communist-run island has been mired in crisis and plagued by blackouts and shortages of food, medicine and fuel since the pandemic. Gross domestic product is 8% below 2020 levels and goods production 40% below, according to the government. Cuba says U.S. sanctions are largely to blame for the crisis, depriving the country of foreign exchange to import most of its fuel, food and other supplies. Washington says the Communist Party is responsible for Cuba's ills and that the sanctions aim to restore democracy and respect for human rights. The officials on Wednesday said Cuba was making daily efforts to secure fuel to keep the country running, without explaining why the situation had gone from bad to worse. Venezuela, Cuba largest oil supplier, has slightly boosted exports to an average of 58,000 barrels per day (bpd) so far this year, from 55,000 bpd in 2022, with more fuel oil for power generation delivered. Cuba has also seen regular crude and fuel imports from Russia and Mexico, according to shipping data. But the imports have not been enough to meet the island's rising fuel demand and to compensate for insufficient domestic refining, said Jorge Pinon, Senior Research Fellow at the University of Texas in Austin. "Cuba has bought more crude and fuel this year, compared with last year. However, the electricity sector's rising demand (has) not been met either by domestic production or by sufficient supply by Venezuela," Pinon said. "If Mexico or Russia cease supply, problems will be bigger," he added. Cuba's crisis has sparked numerous demonstrations, including nation-wide protests in July 2021 that were the largest since deceased leader Fidel Castros 1959 Revolution. Hundreds of thousands of people have left the country over the past two years, mostly to the United States. (Reporting by Marc Frank with additional reporting by Nelson Acosta and Marianna Parraga; editing by Rami Ayyub) America may run on Dunkin, but Miami runs on croquetas. For you folks who think every day is National Croqueta Day, youll be glad to hear on Sunday, its official. Back in September 2018, after Sergios Coral Way served its 20 millionth croqueta, Mayor Francis Suarez declared an annual homage to the Cuban staple. To celebrate the occasion, one restaurant in Miami is giving these warm cylinders of crispy joy the attention they deserve. Calle Dragones in Little Havana is offering up a special flight dedicated to the symbol of Miamis most preferred poppable. Croqueta flight at Calle Dragones, @ieatz305 For a refreshingly economical $8, guests can indulge in four different classic Cuban flavors, served flight style, minus the beer. Think chicken fricase; mozzarella and manchego; bacalao and crab; and pork and mojo sofrito. Guests can wash down their flight, served with a side of garlic aioli, with a $10 hearty cocktail called the Entre la Habana y New York (Between Havana and New York, which is normally $23). Thats fat washed bourbon mixed with peanut butter, maduro syrups and bitters, so plan your calorie intake the day you decide to go. The flight and cocktail are offered all week through Oct. 8, exclusively during happy hour from 4 p.m.-7 p.m., except Mondays and Tuesdays, when the eatery is closed. CALLE DRAGONES 1036 SW 8th St., Miami 786-722-8370; www.calledragones.com A soon-to-be vacant gun store in Culver City has a new owner: the city itself. Earlier this month, Culver City announced plans to purchase the Martin B. Retting Gun Store on Washington Boulevard for a price tag of more than $6 million. The gunshop was a mainstay in Culver City for more than six decades, but in July, its longtime owners announced the store would be closing shop. After 65 years in business, with the company staying in the hands of various members of the Retting family throughout, retirement beckoned its current owners. Despite having overcome and flourished after everything the firearms industry could throw at us, it turns out that the one thing we cant defeat is the inevitable march of time, store management wrote in a note to customers posted on its website. The Martin B. Retting Gun Store in Culver City is shown on Sept. 27, 2023. The gun store has a new ownerthe city itself. (KTLA) The store became the subject of public ire in recent years due to its close proximity to La Ballona Elementary School. It was also listed in a 2022 report by the California Department of Justice identifying it as one of the states top sources of guns that were illegally possessed, were used in the commission of a crime, or were suspected of having been used in a crime. Years ago, Culver City passed an ordinance that prohibits gun sellers from operating businesses near schools, but the gun store received leniency due to its longtime residency and was allowed to keep doing business. Family of slain LASD deputy shocked by decision not to seek death penalty But those rights were transferrable, officials said, meaning if the storefront were to ever be sold, a new one could quickly take its place. Yasmine Imani-McMorrin, the citys vice mayor, said the city listened to input from the community and determined many were worried about public safety if a new store were to open. They had concerns about their families well-being, Imani-Mcmorrin told KTLAs Rachel Menitoff. At a Sept. 11 city council meeting, the council met to discuss the sale and listen to feedback from the community. A crowd of mostly supporters gathered in the chambers to urge councilmembers to vote in support of the citys purchase. Ending gun sales in our school zones will have an impact on our children and families that will be felt for generations, said Melody Hanson, a mother and member of Culver 878, a local gun safety advocacy group. After public comment ended, the council unanimously voted in favor of purchasing the property for $6.5 million. But despite the unanimous support from the council, not all in Culver City were encouraged by the sale. Gary Zeiss, a Culver City resident who called into oppose the purchase, raised concerns about the overall cost of the property, which he said was significantly above market value. I am not a Second Amendment proponent by any stretch of the imagination, however I am a proponent of good government, Zeiss said. Theres no evidence that the value of the property is in any way proportional to the value of other properties in the area. Zeiss also questioned why the property was being purchased without any definitive plans on how it will be used. Skeletal remains found in sprawling Ventura County park In a statement provided to KTLA Wednesday, Mayor Albert Vera confirmed that there was no immediate plan for the property, but said it will eventually serve the community as a whole. The Citys decision to purchase the building is in large part from listening to the community and its desire to have a different use for that location. It will be an involved process with the community on the next steps for that building and what it ultimately will become, the statement reads. The Martin B. Retting Gun Store initially planned to shutter its doors at the end of July, but it remained open as recently as early September. Despite the retirement of its owners, guns and other merchandise were being sold at their original prices because the business closure was not a liquidation, clearance or distress sale. The stores phone number has since been disconnected. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. As Sen. Bob Menendez , D-N.J., remains mired in scandal after being federally indicted on corruption charges last week, his Democratic colleagues in Congress have seemingly rushed to distance themselves. Curiously, several Republicans have defended him from calls to step down. Federal prosecutors allege that nearly half a million dollars in cash and gold bars were discovered in Menedez's New Jersey home. The democratic legislator has claimed the money came from his own personal savings account over the years funds he claimed were legitimately earned from his career as a politician and lawmaker. Prosecutors have claimed Menendez and his wife took gold bars, a Mercedes, and cash to assist businessmen and the Egyptian government. Menendez, who has refused to resign despite calls to step down from a number of Democratic senators, has received support from some Republicans. "Senator Menendez has a right to test the government's evidence in court, just like any other citizen," Cotton wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. "He should be judged by jurors and New Jersey's voters, not by Democratic politicians who now view him as inconvenient to their hold on power." Floridian GOP Senator Marco Rubio shared in Cotton's sentiment, tweeting, "The allegations against the Senior Senator from New Jersey are nasty & the evidence offered difficult to explain away. But in America guilt is decided by a jury, not politicians in fear of their party losing a Senate seat." Other GOP lawmakers suggested that Menendez's fate be left in the hands of New Jersey voters. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, noted that while the charges against Menendez are "extremely serious ... it's up to him and the voters of New Jersey to make the resignation decision." Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., echoed Collins' sentiment, saying, "That's up to the Democrats," when asked if Menendez should resign. "Whether Bob Menendez steps down is a decision for the voters of New Jersey," claimed Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio. "Clearly the guy's been accused of some pretty crazy stuff ... but we do have innocence until proven guilty here." "Everyone is entitled to the presumption of innocence, and Bob is as well," stated Sen. Ted. Cruz, R-Texas. Menendez pleaded not guilty in a federal courtroom in Manhattan on Wednesday. Earlier this week he vowed to not resign, even though more than half of all Democrats in the Senate have said he should go. Unless Senator Menendez is coming today to resign, I am not interested in hearing his 'explanation' for gold bars stashed in a mattress. Were past the point of his tough talk and defiance, given the scope and scale of his alleged corruption. Senator John Fetterman (@SenFettermanPA) September 28, 2023 CVS pharmacists who staged a walkout over working conditions that imperil patient safety returned to their stores today after they say the company committed to a series of improvements. The improvements, which include additional staffing and paid overtime, were made in a conference call with pharmacy staff on Wednesday and will affect an estimated 60 stores in the Kansas City region where the walkouts occurred last week and again on Wednesday, organizers told USA TODAY. Other commitments made to the team include the temporary suspension of the stores online vaccination appointment schedulers and the ability of pharmacists to manually cancel vaccination appointments without repercussion, according to two pharmacists who were on the call and independently provided details to USA TODAY. The detente caps a protest that caught the attention of retail pharmacists nationwide who have similarly struggled with deteriorating working conditions. The Kansas and California pharmacist associations issued statements this week in support of the Kansas City pharmacists, as did the American Pharmacist Association, which represents pharmacists nationwide. Retail pharmacists have long struggled with increasing workloads amid dwindling staff sizes that they say has limited their ability to safely and accurately fill prescriptions and consult with patients. The same concerns sparked the walkout in Kansas City. Pharmacists launched their effort last week by refusing to go to work. Organizers claim their effort shuttered as many as 22 stores, but CVS said it impacted only about 10. A second walkout was staged on Wednesday after a failed negotiation attempt with top CVS executives who had flown to Kansas City to meet with pharmacy teams and walkout organizers. Prem Shah, CVS' chief pharmacy officer and president of pharmacy and consumer wellness, issued a memo to Kansas City staff after that meeting apologizing for not responding to their concerns sooner. The commitments made on Wednesday, however, seemed to satisfy the pharmacists, who said they are cautiously optimistic. As far as the concrete measures they promised, all that is short-term, said Corey Schneider, one of the CVS pharmacists in the region. They have given us more general promises that theyll do better on hiring and training people thats where we need to see more details. I don't think they've had a chance to figure out exactly what that looks like, but I'm personally willing to give them a chance to show us. Yesterday and today, things feel positive. Schneider said he and others in Kansas City hope CVS will take similar steps to improve pharmacy workloads and patient safety at stores across the nation. CVS declined to confirm specific commitments made to the Kansas City stores or to say whether those measures would be extended to any of the more than 9,000 pharmacies the company operates nationwide. Mike DeAngelis, CVS executive director of corporate communications, said the company is committed to addressing concerns that have been raised by our pharmacists and that it is developing a sustainable, scalable action plan that can be put in place in any market where support may be needed. Pharmacists arent the only ones raising concerns. CVS customers, too, have noticed a decline in service and delays in obtaining their prescriptions. Kansas City resident Penny Moeller said she has frequented the same CVS for a decade but is about to follow her husband in switching to Walgreens because she doesnt feel its safe there anymore. Its not the fault of the pharmacists who are working very hard and are completely frazzled, Moller said. They are running around in there moving as fast as they can, but there are only about two of them, and there is a line of disgruntled customers waiting and its just a really bad situation. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: CVS walkout ends; pharmacists to get more staff, paid overtime FARMERSVILLE, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) A Farmersville man has been sentenced to life in prison for sexual assault of a child, according to the Tulare County District Attorneys Office. On September 28, 2023, the court sentenced 24-year-old Lucas Floyd to life in prison for child molestation. Floyd pleaded guilty to one count of sexual intercourse with a child ten years of age or younger on February 16, 2023. Officials say the crimes occurred in Visalia between January 2018 to February 2019 against a single minor female who was four years old at the time. In addition to his sentence, officials say Floyd will be required to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life. According to current California sentencing laws, Floyd must serve 25 years in prison prior to becoming eligible for parole. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com. A Dallas paramedic who was fired after he was caught on video punching and kicking a homeless man in 2019 was rehired by Dallas Fire-Rescue, according to a report from Star-Telegram partner WFAA-TV. Brad Cox, who had worked for Dallas Fire-Rescue for 19 years, was reinstated by an administrative law judges ruling but was demoted, according to the report. He was fired in October 2021, but he will not receive any lost wages for the time he was terminated. Cox was a driver and engineer with Dallas Fire-Rescue, but is now has the lower rank of fire rescue officer, according to WFAA. Dallas Fire Fighters Association President Jim McDade told WFAA that he did not agree with terminating Cox to begin with. McDade said standard operating procedures allow officers to defend themselves. The media took a snippet of this incident and didnt look at the totality of the situation, McDade said. The question it raised amongst the department was, if youre put in a situation where you are attacked, what do you do to defend yourself? According to police body-camera video of the incident, Cox told police that he was trying to defend himself from the homeless man, Kyle Vess, who he said attacked him. On Aug. 2, 2019, Cox and other firefighters responded to the frontage road of Interstate 30 near Lone Star Drive, where police were told Vess had started several small fires. Cox told police he was stomping out the flames when Vess allegedly attacked him, and he responded by kicking and punching Vess back, according to the video. Body-camera footage obtained by WFAA shows Cox telling Vess to get up. Vess was moving toward Cox and Cox is seen in the video kicking him in the head and punching him. Vess was then shocked with a taser and was arrested. Police public integrity documents obtained by WFAA said Vess had a black eye to his right eye, bloody nose, multiple fractures to his face and a swollen right ankle. He was charged with assaulting a public servant, but the charges were later dropped. The Dallas Police Department investigated the incident, but Cox was not charged with anything. A grand jury also declined to indict Cox on any charges, but Vess family sued Cox and the city of Dallas, alleging Vess had a mental illness and had suffered a traumatic brain injury before the incident, according to court documents. That lawsuit is still pending. Cox, along with another firefighter, previously was accused of harassing and laughing at another homeless man, Hirschell Wayne Fletcher Jr., who had been beaten and robbed outside of a Dallas soup kitchen on Dec. 30, 2016, the Star-Telegram previously reported. A federal lawsuit filed by Fletchers children said that paramedics Kyle Clark and Cox assumed Fletcher was drunk and began to harass him as he sat on the sidewalk. They continuously mocked Fletcher for about 15 to 20 minutes, the lawsuit said. Fletcher was taken by authorities to jail instead of a hospital for treatment and died from a brain bleed caused by his injuries. The paramedics did not face criminal charges in connection with Fletchers death but were charged with falsifying records by claiming that the Dallas Police Department hauled Fletcher to jail before their arrival. Cox pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 12 months of probation. The Dallas Police Department is asking for the publics help finding an 86-year-old man who went missing Sunday. Police are looking for Francisco Perez, who is described as a Hispanic male with white hair, brown eyes, is 5 feet, 6 inches tall, and weighs about 165 pounds. He was last seen about 5 p.m. Sunday in the 4900 block of Parry Avenue wearing gray pants and an unknown colored shirt. He may be in need of assistance, according to police. Anyone with information about Perez or his whereabouts are asked to call the police department at 911 or (214) 671-4268, referencing the case number 173806-2023. House Speaker Emanuel Chris Welch next to Gov. J.B. Pritzker as Sen Dick Durbin speaks at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield on Aug. 16, 2023. (Trent Sprague/Chicago Tribune) After complaints from his staff that he rebuffed their efforts to organize, House Speaker Emanuel Chris Welch on Tuesday filed a bill that would allow his employees and other legislative staffers within the state government to unionize. About 20 of Welchs staffers late last year declared their intentions to form a union in an effort to secure higher wages and better benefits. The employees, whose roles included research and legislative functions, formed the Illinois Legislative Staff Association, but said Welch refused to discuss the matter with them. Advertisement We are happy to see the speaker file this bill, Brady Burden, a Welch staffer who is part of the association, said Wednesday in a statement. We look forward to working together in good faith and coming to an agreement. Under the proposal, legislative employees would be allowed to collectively bargain through representatives of their choosing on questions of wages, hours and other conditions of employment. The measure specifies that the Illinois General Assembly is not required to bargain on specified matters of inherent managerial policy. Advertisement In addition, the General Assembly would establish an office of state legislative labor relations to manage the interests of the legislature in union-related matters with the employees. It would also give the state panel of the Illinois Labor Relations Board jurisdiction over collective bargaining matters between employee organizations and the legislature. The proposals definition of legislative employee does not include upper echelon staffers such as the chief of staff, deputy chief of staff, legal counsel or other staffers who work in high-profile supervisory roles. The proposal has seven House Democratic co-sponsors, including Chicago state Rep. Marcus Evans, who heads the chambers Labor and Commerce Committee. The bill was first reported Tuesday by Politico. Welch was criticized by the association for not supporting its efforts despite supporting last years passage of the Workers Rights Amendment, codifying in the state constitution a fundamental right for workers in Illinois to unionize and collectively bargain. Welchs office said that even with the amendment, state law specifically prohibits legislative staff from forming a union, necessitating new legislation. Members of Welchs staff went public with their intentions to unionize in May, but ahead of the Labor Day holiday they said that Welch, a Democrat from Hillside who became House speaker in 2021, had not been willing to discuss the issue with the group despite requests made over the last nine months. Until Wednesday, the speakers office has refused to comment on this issue when approached with media inquiries from the Tribune, but now says it disputes the associations characterization that Welch had not been willing to engage, saying his top officials had communicated with the staffers earlier this year and explained how the law didnt allow them to be voluntarily recognized as a union. The staffers petitioned the states Labor Relations Board, which denied their petition, Welchs office said, adding the decision meant, for instance, that the staffers would have no avenue to file grievances. Advertisement Earlier this year, Welchs office said the speaker tasked his senior staff to talk to labor experts and research policies in other states that have passed similar legislation, Welchs office said. Welch spokeswoman Jaclyn Driscoll on Wednesday declined the Tribunes request to interview Welch. But she said in a statement that he believes union protections should apply to workers throughout the (state) Capitol, not just those employed by the House, noting that California, Oregon and Washington have advanced similar legislation and the work we are doing builds on that. According to the association, the $40,000-a-year starting salary for ITS staff members is more than $4,000 less than it was in 2011 if adjusted to 2022 dollars. The association said the workload has increased for its staffers, noting there are about 2.9 House Democrats per legislative staffer this year, compared to about 2.5 per staffer last year and roughly 1.9 per staffer in 2021 when the General Assembly was emerging from frequent remote state business due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The association has also said theres been higher turnover of its legislative staff through 2022 and the group said its average pay is less than the pay for House Republican and Senate Democrat staffers and legislative liaisons in the governors office. jgorner@chicagotribune.com The Dallas Police Department is asking for the publics help identifying two males seen in video at the scene of a deadly shooting in March. At around 2 a.m. on March 4, police responded to a shooting in the 600 block of Fabrication Street. The preliminary investigation determined a fight broke out at a party at the scene and shots were fired at the location, hitting three people. Raul Alvarez, 18, was fatally shot after a fight broke out at a party in the 600 block of Fabrication Street on March 4, 2023. Dallas Fire Rescue responded and a male, later identified as 18-year-old Raul Alvarez, died at the scene. Two other males were transported to a local hospital and were in stable condition. Police are looking to identify and speak to two males who were seen in a cellphone video at the scene of the shooting. Anyone with information regarding the two males or the shooting is asked to contact Detective Jonequia Acrond at jonequia.acrond@dallaspolice.gov or 214-671-4097. This is an ongoing investigation. Businessman Vivek Ramaswamy speaks during the FOX Business Republican presidential primary debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. Presidential contender Vivek Ramaswamy told supporters in a message emailed before Wednesday nights debate that "Ive got a target on my back." He was right. After his energetic, quick-thinking and verbose style scored points in the first Republican presidential debate, the 38-year-old Cincinnati-area native charged out of the box again in the second debate, in Simi Valley, Calif. He pledged to "unleash American exceptionalism" and urged unity, not division. He called the six other candidates on the stage "all good people." They werent having it. Vivek Ramaswamy targeted by fellow candidates in GOP debate "We cant trust you!" former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley exclaimed to Ramaswamy after criticizing him for personally using the Chinese-owned social media platform TikTok, which some fear could be used by the Chinese government to collect U.S. data and exert influence over American users. "Honestly, every time I hear you, I feel a little dumber for what you say," Haley said. South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott ripped him for being "in business with the Chinese Communist Party" with his former company. The biotech entrepreneur responded, "we got the hell out of there," and said his new company doesnt deal with China. Former Vice President Mike Pence poked fun at Ramaswamy for having skipped voting in some presidential elections and again criticized Ramaswamy for his conciliatory-sounding approach to Russia for the invasion of Ukraine. Ramaswamy defended going on TikTok this month to make videos after earlier referring to it as "digital fentanyl." He said Wednesday night he would "ban addictive social media for children under 16" but said he began using TikTok as a way to connect with young people, which he said Republicans need to do more of. 'We need to win elections': Vivek Ramaswamy defends joining TikTok after criticizing addictive social media apps Politics: Could Vivek Ramaswamy be America's new president? Republican debate on Fox Business SIMI VALLEY, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 27: Republican presidential candidates (L-R), Vivek Ramaswamy and U.S. Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) participate in the FOX Business Republican Primary Debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library on September 27, 2023 in Simi Valley, California. Seven presidential hopefuls squared off in the second Republican primary debate as former U.S. President Donald Trump, currently facing indictments in four locations, declined again to participate. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) Ramaswamy: 'Im the new guy here. And so I know I have to earn your trust' Ramaswamy has been an early sensation in the Republican race, as well as a curiosity. "Im the new guy here. And so I know I have to earn your trust," he said Wednesday night. "What do you see? You see a young man whos in a bit of a hurry. Maybe a little ambitious; bit of a know-it-all it seems at times. "Im here to tell you though that I dont know it all. I will listen. I will have the best and brightest in this country advising me, probably many of the people on this stage included." Entrepreneur presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy smiles as he's interviewed by a cable network in the spin room after the Republican presidential debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif., Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. What does Ramaswamy really want? Ramaswamy reminds me of when I covered the Rev. Jesse Jacksons seemingly quixotic Democratic presidential bid in 1988. Like Ramaswamy, the civil rights leader was a political outsider seeking to make history in Jacksons case, to become the first Black nominee; in the Indian-American Ramaswamys case, the first Republican nominee of color. The question that kept greeting Jackson was: "What does Jesse Want? Jackson dismissed it as "insulting," implying he didnt expect to win even though he believed he could. Jackson did rack up a string of primary victories and at one point led the field in delegates before Massachusetts Gov. Michael Dukakis pulled ahead on his way to losing the general election to George H.W. Bush. Ramaswamy, who was 3 then, faces the same skepticism in 2023. What does he really want? Hes the youngest, least-experienced candidate politically and has never held public office. Former president Donald Trump has consistently led the field by substantial double-digit margins. Some political observers point to his praise of Trump, such as calling him "the best president of the 21st century" in the first debate, as evidence his real goal is to be Trumps running mate. Hes caught Trumps eye and drawn his praise. Others suspect hes trying to build up a base for a future race. Some have suggested he wants to gain attention to his Strive Asset Management investment company based in the Columbus area. Or, maybe hes gathering material for his third book, following the success of "Woke Inc." and "Nation of Victims." Politics: Donald Trump was a no-show for the second Republican debate. He still came out on top. GOP debate fact check: Separating fact from fiction on what candidates got right and wrong Businessman Vivek Ramaswamy waves inside the spin room after the Republican presidential debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum in Simi Valley on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. Too soon to doubt Ramaswamy Ramaswamy insists hes running only to be president and will bring fresh energy and ideas to build upon Trumps foundation and said Wednesday night hell take the "America First agenda to the next level." And playing to Trumps base could pay off if the former presidents mounting legal problems cripple his efforts to win a second term. Considering that in barely seven months of campaigning Ramaswamy has gone from barely registering in polls to running third with double digits, its too soon to doubt him. But as his GOP opponents made clear, his path is getting rockier. Dan Sewell is a regular Opinion contributor. Contact him at his personal email: dsewellrojos@gmail. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Don't write off Ramaswamy, but GOP debate exposes his tough road ahead Daniel Lurie , accompanied by his wife, Becca Prowda, arrives at the San Francisco Department of Elections on Tuesday to file paperwork to run in the city's mayoral election next year. (Stephen Lam / San Francisco Chronicle) Daniel Lurie, a philanthropist and heir to the Levi Strauss & Co. fortune, has announced his candidacy for San Francisco mayor, seeking to mobilize voters agitated by issues such as homelessness, crime and public drug use. Lurie is bidding to unseat Mayor London Breed, a fellow Democrat and San Francisco native who is running for reelection. But already in his nascent campaign, Lurie is casting himself as an outsider who can bring new leadership and fresh ideas to the challenging issues San Francisco faces. "What we are seeing on the streets of San Francisco is not progressive," Lurie said in a campaign announcement video last week. "We need change in San Francisco." Lurie's platform emphasizes getting rid of "open-air drug markets" and a "perception of lawlessness" in the city issues that were central in last year's decisive recall of Chesa Boudin, San Francisco's former progressive district attorney. Read more: San Francisco voters recall progressive D.A. Boudin. Crime and homelessness at issue It appears Lurie hopes to appeal to those same dissatisfied voters while still touting many core Democratic policy points, like investing in rehabilitation programs, job training and affordable housing in the deep-blue city. Lurie is part of a growing cohort of deep-pocketed political candidates who lack traditional governing experience. Its easy to criticize government when youre not a part of it formally, said James Lance Taylor, a politics professor at the University of San Francisco. A similar dynamic played out last year in Los Angeles, where businessman Rick Caruso spent more than $100 million of his own fortune on his ultimately unsuccessful mayoral campaign. Read more: How Karen Bass prevailed against Rick Caruso's $100-million campaign But Taylor said he's not convinced voters will be that easy to win over, pointing to Breed's 2016 contest against Dean Preston for a seat on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Preston later won the seat after Breed moved into mayoral position. She has been through this before, shes been challenged by a wealthy upstart," said Taylor, who contributed to the new book "Political Black Girl Magic," about Black female mayors. "London Breed has been tested ... [she] is ready for this." Lurie has never run for office but served as chair of the city's host committee for the 2016 Super Bowl leading the effort to bring the event to Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara. His wife, Becca Prowda, works in Gov. Gavin Newsom's office. He has spent much of the last two decades leading his anti-poverty nonprofit, Tipping Point Community. Lurie's stepfather was Peter Haas Sr., the longtime chief executive and chairman of Levi Strauss & Co., who died in 2005. Much of the company's fortune remains in the family. Also in the mayoral race at this point is Supervisor Ahsha Safai, a Democrat who declared his candidacy in the spring. A number of other individuals have also filed paperwork signaling their intent to run. San Francisco's ranked-choice voting system means a victor will be declared after one round of balloting Nov. 5, 2024, without need for a runoff. 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. A previously-approved court deal to sell AppHarvests large Somerset greenhouse to a Dutch indoor produce grower may have fallen through, attorneys told a bankruptcy judge in an emergency status conference Thursday. The emergency hearing came one day before crucial debtor-in-possession funding was set to be exhausted. That money is used to keep the facility running throughout the bankruptcy process. We are and have been on a clock to find a solution to this problem, Anthony Grossi, an attorney representing AppHarvest, told the court in the virtual hearing. In an August 31 auction, Bosch Growers a Netherlands-based, family-run grower that has been in operation since 1854 submitted the winning $44.5 million bid for the Somerset farm, court records show. Judge David R. Jones, of the federal bankruptcy court for the Southern District of Texas, signed off on the deal a little more than a week later. Grossi told Jones Thursday that a new plan to sell the 30-acre cucumber and strawberry greenhouse to Greater Nevada Credit Union, a bank that had previously provided a loan to help build the facility, had arisen. GNCU was previously outbid by Bosch Growers and was listed as the back-up bidder. Under the proposed new deal, which had yet to be filed in writing before the court as of 5 p.m. Thursday, AppHarvests distribution partner Mastronardi Produce would take over operating the farm after it received approval from the USDA to enter the facility, an attorney representing Mastronardi said. GNCU would contribute additional funding to keep the farm running past this week. After hearing the details, Jones said he wasnt sure if hed approve such a deal, noting that it contradicted his previous order. You dont go decide whether or not to comply with an order that I enter, Jones said. Unless the order has been reversed on appeal, you follow that order, it is the law. The judge later added that he was extremely unhappy about the way that this has gone. Jones told the attorneys on the call that he wanted something in writing, filed on the docket, signed by everybody under penalty of perjury. Then they could continue with the status hearing. It wasnt immediately clear when such an agreement might come together. Bosch participated in the auction in good faith and did exactly what I asked of them, Jones said. I want (Bosch) to understand that they still have the right to argue to me that they should be the buyer based upon the deal that was announced on the record, Jones said. If theyve agreed to step aside, this is a free country, they have that right. No one representing Bosch spoke at the status conference but Tijmen van den Bosch, the companys president, said in a statement that they deeply regret the situation. We are happy with what the Judge said and hope we can finalize the deal soon, van den Bosch said. Our one and only goal is to transition this company ASAP, securing Jobs and harvest. Should funding for the farm expire as any deal is being worked out then GNCU should have to foot the bill, AppHarvest said. GNCU should be responsible for providing additional financing for Somerset as they work with Bosch to close the purchase of the Somerset farm, said Travis Parman, AppHarvests spokesperson. With judges approval, liquidation of AppHarvests assets marches forward Why is there a new deal? The new deal arose from a possible misunderstanding during the auction process, Grossi said. The facility is encumbered by a loan from GNCU that is backed by the USDA. As part of Boschs initial bid for the facility valued at about $30 million GNCU would pay $9.9 million and then Bosch would assume $20 million in debt owed to GNCU, court records showed. The auction started with Boschs $30 million bid as the low bar. The price went up as the Dutch grower bid against both GNCU and Mastronardi at the auction and eventually settled at the agreed $45 million. GNCUs position was that as Bosch increased their bid, they pivoted away from GNCU paying $9.9 million, Grossi said. GNCU informed AppHarvest after the sale had been court approved that they feared the USDA would not approve the deal which is a condition to close, Grossi said. AppHarvests position was that the auction was clear that Boschs higher bid still included that GNCU payment. To the contrary, our belief is that it was clear in the auction transcripts, again in the sale order, and then again in our confirmation hearing, together with multiple documents, statements and emails, all consistently demonstrating that Bosch increased the portion of the amount of the pre-petition GNCU debt they were assuming, but never moved away from the $9.9 million payments by GNCU, Grossi said. Frances Smith, an attorney representing GNCU, said they may disagree with AppHarvests recitation of the facts but were willing to move forward and close on the new deal. The new deal was not favorable to AppHarvests unsecured creditors as it would likely lessen the amount of money they would recover from the bankruptcy process, said Chuck Gibbs, an attorney representing a committee of unsecured creditors. The deal came nearly two weeks after Judge Jones approved AppHarvests liquidation plan, which is set to close by the end of this month. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in July. The case against a 23-year-old man arrested in what investigators believe was a random, deadly shooting in December 2020 at a North Lubbock Walmart will go to trial after he publicly backed out of a plea deal on Thursday. Kaleb Anthony Vasquez , who has been held at the Lubbock County Detention Center since Dec. 5, 2020 rejected the plea deal offered by the Lubbock County District Attorney's Office after meeting with his attorneys one last time in the 364th District Court, where he was set to plead guilty. Vasquez is charged with murder in the Dec. 4, 2020, shooting death of 42-year-old Roel Munoz at the Walmart near the intersection of Fourth Street and Frankford Avenue. Murder carries a punishment of five years to life in prison. Fundraiser started for Muleshoe man killed in Walmart shooting Vasquez's attorney, Bill Wischkaemper, informed District Judge William Eichman in open court that his client was rejecting prosecutor's office against his advice. He told the court that he has met with his client multiple times and gone over the evidence and any mitigating issues and informed him that accepting the plea deal was in his best interest. "We've had several long, long sessions with [Vasquez] and this is completely against our advice for him to reject this plea bargain agreement," he told Eichman, who was presiding over the case for 137th District Judge John McClendon who was in the middle of a separate murder bench trial. Vasquez confirmed Wischkaemper's report to the court, saying he was rejecting the offer freely and knowingly. Lubbock County District Attorney Sunshine Stanek informed the court that after rejecting the offer, which was not disclosed in court, it was revoked and the case will be set for trial. Plea offers are not public until they are accepted in court. A handful of Munoz's family members attended the hearing. "You'll get that life sentence," one of Munoz's sisters yelled at Vasquez as she walked out of the courtroom. "Thank you for that." Vasquez's murder charge stems from a Lubbock Metropolitan Special Crimes Unit investigation that began after Lubbock police responded to a 3:45 p.m. shots fired call at Walmart in the 700 block of West Loop 289. Investigators found footage from the store that showed Vasquez, wearing blue denim pants, a jacket and an American flag-style facemask, arrive at the store with his family, according to an arrest warrant. Vasquez walked away from his family, walked past Munoz, turned and shot him. Munoz died at the scene. Police on Friday released an image of 20-year-old Kaleb Vasquez, who is wanted for murder in connection with a deadly shooting Friday afternoon at Walmart in northwest Lubbock. Meanwhile, Munoz's wife was waiting for her husband in the parking lot. Vasquez could be seen running away immediately after the shooting. An employee followed Vasquez out to the parking lot believing he was a shoplifter and saw him throw into the sewer an object that turned out to be a gun, the warrant states. Vasquez's family also identified him as the person featured in an image that police officials released to the public during the manhunt that ended about four hours after the shooting. Police, responding to a call about a carjacking at a gas station near the intersection of 19th Street and Avenue A, found Vasquez and arrested him. Officials said they have yet to find a connection between Vasquez and Munoz. A trial date has not yet been set. This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Murder suspect to stand trial after rejecting plea deal WASHINGTON Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro announced initiatives aimed at making the service more responsive to warfighter challenges: the creation of the Disruptive Capabilities Office to quickly apply new technologies to operational problems, and a pilot program that would help programs of record be more agile. Del Toro said he signed off on the creation of the DCO to carry on the mission of the Unmanned Task Force, a pilot program that had reached the end of its 12- to 18-month planned existence. The service two years ago established the UTF to scour government and industry inventories for unmanned technologies and rapidly vet them to address specific operational needs. In contrast to the highly public work of the Navys Task Force 59 in the Middle East, the UTFs work was largely classified often looking at specific actions Russia or China might take and seeking an unmanned technology that could help prevent or respond to that scenario. Michael Stewart, who led the UTF, told Defense News he worked with fleet commanders from across the globe to generate a prioritized list of their toughest operational problems that their current toolkit couldnt solve. The task forces small staff would then assemble a sprint team of legal, policy, warfighting, technology and regional experts to brainstorm potential solutions to those problems using existing technology only. The team would rapidly toss out the ideas that would take too long to field, were too complex, were not mature, and so on, and then settle on a small number of potential solutions to test and evaluate in the field, he said. We were buying down risk very, very quickly, and we could demonstrate it in an operational setting very quickly, Stewart said. The other key feature was that Stewart reported directly to the vice chief of naval operations, a four-star admiral, to discuss the work of the sprint teams and ask them to find small sums of money for specific test events without having to go through the traditional budgeting process. Del Toro, who announced the DCOs creation at an event celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Naval Research Laboratory, told Defense News the new office will keep the same work process as the UTF and report to the vice chief and the Navy secretary. It will look very much like the Unmanned Task Force in the beginning, until we actually start expanding the different topics and issues were going to be working in the Disruptive Capabilities Office, Del Toro said. In the early days of the office, it will consolidate all the unmanned initiatives in the Navy to make sure that were super focused on the right thing, the right operational requirement, Del Toro said. Eventually, it will begin taking on operational problems that might be solved with other emerging technologies. An Elbit Systems Seagull unmanned surface vessel operates alongside the patrol coastal ship USS Monsoon (PC 4) in the Arabian Gulf on Nov. 29 during Digital Horizon 2022. The three-week unmanned and artificial intelligence integration event involves employing new platforms in the region for the first time. (Sgt. Brandon Murphy/US Army) At the heart of this office, as was the case with Stewarts UTF, is a direct line with top leadership so that we can make quick decisions, especially quick resourcing decisions, and put money towards it so that we can actually get things moving faster, Del Toro said. The U.S. 5th Fleet would still maintain operational control of its Task Force 59, U.S. 7th Fleet would continue its recent work with four large unmanned surface vessels operating out of Japan, and U.S. 4th Fleet would continue its experimentation with a fleet of Sail Drones in the Caribbean, he said, adding that theyll all share lessons, concepts of operations and more through the DCO to get the most out of lessons learned. Michael Brasseur, who led Task Force 59 from its fall 2021 inception until his retirement from the Navy this spring, told Defense News that TF59 had a bold vision focused on solving key operational problems, and bold people assuming a lot of risk to translate that vision to reality fast. That speed is enabled by novel business models, relentless focus on execution, rapid iteration and more that allowed the fleet to stitch together a hundred disparate unmanned systems into a sophisticated maritime domain awareness network, he said. I am encouraged by [Del Toros] announcement today, my hope is that the DCO builds on the successes of the UTF and TF59, but is even bolder. Agility in programs of record Del Toro said his aim isnt just to help the service bring in new technology outside of its programs of record, he wants to make the acquisition programs more agile as well. He said in his remarks he would kick off a pilot program with the Program Executive Office for Integrated Warfare Systems which oversees the Navys program offices for weapons and sensors to create some budgeting flexibility. Rather than look at spending program by program the budgeting process today includes specific lines for each individual type of missile, each combat system, each sensor and more within PEO IWS this pilot would create a portfolio view instead. If an upgrade on one missile needed to be accelerated to meet an urgent warfighter need, the PEO could shift money from elsewhere within the missile portfolio to make that happen, for example. Del Toro said that if this proves it can increase the rate of development and fielding so the acquisition programs can better keep up with the fleets ever-evolving needs, this would be expanded to the other PEOs that cover platforms like ships and aircraft. After the event, he told Defense News that I want to give the PEOs maximum flexibility to be able to respond to emergent operational requirements that develop. This effort will start with legal authorities the Navy already has to move money around from program to program but will hopefully identify the limitations of the current system and identify changes that could make this portfolio approach to spending much more agile. The pilot will be a success, he said, in proving, demonstrating theres value in this to Congress, to the American taxpayer so we can build the case in a credible fashion for perhaps, if additional congressional authorities are needed, to propose them in the future. Leveraging science and technology During the event celebrating the centennial of the Naval Research Laboratory, the labs Director of Research Bruce Danly spoke of its role in spearheading long-term, high-risk research projects that commercial industry has little interest in. This type of work will still continue Danly mentioned a rapid radiation remediation concept that would protect space-based sensors from a high-altitude nuclear bomb detonation, something thats been validated in the lab and will soon be demonstrated in space, as well as research into using laser light beams to send communications, as an alternative to radios that are increasingly at risk of being intercepted or jammed. Del Toro talked about newer ways to innovate: the new Naval Innovation Center at the Naval Postgraduate School will enhance and accelerate the innovation process at NPS by bringing research concepts out of the lab and into the field faster. The Marine Innovation Unit is focused on the identification, experimentation, and rapid fielding of technologies and capabilities to address gaps identified by our Marines, he said. We are dedicated to ensuring that we are collaboratively working together to get the most return on investment of the taxpayers money, so that there is no redundancy in what we do, so that work thats being done in one lab is being shared equitably across the entire enterprise and actually into the Air Force and into the Army, collaborating as much as we can because thats absolutely the right thing to do, he said. To help focus all these efforts, the Navys new Science and Technology Board met for the first time last week to discuss how it would pursue its mission of identifying how new science and technology could be applied to defense missions in novel ways. Del Toro also directed Chief of Naval Research Rear Adm. Kurt Rothenhaus to submit a science and technology strategy within 90 days to guide how fiscal and human resources are spent to solve sailors and Marines operational problems today and into the future. C-SPAN The House GOPs first impeachment inquiry hearing got off to a rocky start on Thursday, as even the Republicans witnesses conceded there wasnt enough evidence yet to support impeaching President Joe Biden. Besides pointing out that Republicans had yet to provide any smoking gun linking the president to any criminal wrongdoing when it came to his son Hunter Bidens business dealings, Democrats also repeatedly called out their GOP colleagues for doing the ex-president Donald Trumps bidding with the sham impeachment. And they also werent above doing a bit of trolling of the former president, which included bringing up the one insult that really gets under his skin. Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-NM) explicitly made this point during her line of questioning on Thursday afternoon. Armed with props, the lawmaker noted that the twice-impeached former president has taken to his social media accounts to demand that Republicans impeach his successor. We know that Donald Trump has called for this impeachment inquiry because we have the direct evidence from his own social. You can see it right here, Stansbury exclaimed while a staffer held up a large image of a Truth Social post. He says impeach! Adding that The New York Times has reported that members of the House Oversight Committee have been directly coordinating with Trump and briefing him on the inquiry, Stansbury said the ex-president has also urged them to support a government shutdown. We also know that if Donald Trump does not get his way, he wants his loyalists to shut down the government. How do we know that? Stansbury declared. Because he posted it, right here on his social media. And his loyalists in this committee, who are doing his bidding for him today, retweeted it! With a staffer holding up another image of Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) sharing Trumps call for a shutdown, the congresswoman continued: In fact, it actually says right here, the reason they want to defund the government and impeach is because this is the last chance to defund these political prosecutions against me. Claiming that this is not a serious inquiry, the New Mexico Democrat added that the witnesses here dont even believe there is enough evidence to impeach before taking a personal swipe at the former president. We see the long armbut little handsof Mr. Donald Trump, whose fingerprints are all over this hearing and this sham impeachment, she concluded. We know that the American people are smart, they will not be fooled by what is happening here today, especially as they shut the government down in two days with catastrophic impacts for our communities. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. A Democratic congressman displayed a 2019 tweet from House Oversight and Accountability Committee Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) to argue that the impeachment inquiry into President Biden is political theater. Rep. Greg Casar (D-Texas) started off his remarks to the committee by quoting a tweet posted by Comer in 2019 during former President Trumps first impeachment inquiry. The people of America elected all 435 of us to do the things that they expect Congress to do. Real business, not theater [and] try to have some type of prescription drug reform legislation passed before the end of the year. But instead the majority party [is] conducting baseless impeachment hearings, according to Comers displayed tweet. Who do we think said this quote? Was it Nancy Pelosi? Maybe ranking member Jamie Raskin? Mr. Chairman, you might recognize that quote, because you said this in 2019, Casar said at the hearing. You sit on the floor of the U.S. House saying impeaching Donald Trump was political theater, he continued. Trump was first impeached for attempting to extort a foreign president into helping the Trump presidential campaign. And if you didnt consider that criminal, how about when Trump was impeached trying to overthrow the rest of the results of the presidential election and then incited a violent insurrection against the government? So if you thought that impeaching Trump was political theater, then what would you call this. He went on to label the impeachment inquiry into Biden over his familys business dealings a disgrace and said Republicans opted to open the impeachment first and find evidence for it later. He said that it is his firm belief that the presidents son, Hunter Biden , and former President Trump should both face trial, but reiterated that the president has not been found to do anything wrong. Casar also then asked for a show of hands on whether members of the committee want to see both Hunter Biden and Trump held accountable for their crimes if they are convicted. Democratic members appeared to raise their hands while no Republicans raised theirs. I think it is worse than embarrassing that Republicans wont raise their hands they refuse to say that equal justice under the law should apply to everyone, he said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Democratic Reps. Jamie Raskin (Md.) and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (N.Y.) asked Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) to not display pornography again in an impeachment hearing Thursday. Greene was interrupted during her prepared remarks to the House Oversight and Accountability Committees first hearing on the impeachment inquiry into President Biden so that Raskin could bring up a point of order. Mr. Chairman, our colleague in Georgia has introduced before pornographic exhibits and displayed things that are really not suitable for children who might be watching, Raskin said, before Greene interjected, asking, A bathing suit is not suitable, Mr. Raskin? Well, Im saying I would like the witness, I would like the member to be instructed to not introduce any pornography today at least without running through the chair first, Raskin responded. Greene continued to reiterate that the photo she was holding up was a woman in a bathing suit, which she said is not pornography. Ocasio-Cortez later jumped in, questioning if Greene was submitting a naked womans body. This is a bathing suit, this is a bathing suit! Greene repeated, before asking the New York Democrat whether she was wearing her glasses. I have contacts in, Ocasio-Cortez responded. Congratulations, Greene shot back. At an IRS whistleblower hearing in July, Greene held up small posters featuring graphic sexual photos of Hunter Biden from the laptop hard drive that purportedly belonged to him, which were censored with black boxes. Raskin asked Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) at the time if Greene should be displaying those photographs. House Republicans launched their first impeachment hearing into President Biden Thursday and had witnesses weigh in on the business dealings of the presidents family. Biden has maintained that he has had no involvement in his sons business dealings. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A woman who said she was repeatedly sexually assaulted by a counselor while incarcerated at a downstate prison and that authorities failed to properly act on her accusations was awarded more than $19 million by a federal jury late last week. The womans 2018 federal lawsuit against Logan Correctional Center personnel said the assaults occurred at a time when there were dozens of allegations of sexual assault or harassment by Illinois Department of Corrections employees against people who were incarcerated. Advertisement The jury awarded the woman, identified only as Jane Doe, $8 million in compensatory damages and more than $11 million in punitive damages. Defendants included Richard Macleod, who was accused of sexually assaulting the plaintiff while he was a counselor at Logan, Todd Sexton, an internal affairs investigator at the prison when the allegations surfaced, and Margaret Burke, Logans warden at the time of the alleged acts. What Im hoping is that a number like this will get somebodys attention at the Department of Corrections to finally grapple with this problem, which has been going on for decades, said Alan Mills, executive director of the Uptown Peoples Law Center, which helped represent the woman. Advertisement The Department of Corrections desperately needs independent oversight and, you know, as Ive said, somebody at Logan should have been standing up and screaming it from the rooftops saying that this is going on and you have to stop, or we just cant do business as usual, Mills said. Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raouls office, which represented many of the defendants in the case, had no comment. The Illinois Department of Corrections also declined to comment. The woman alleged the assaults started in 2016 when she was assigned to a housing unit where Macleod was her counselor. Macleod subsequently let her use the phone in his office so she could call her daughter, and then sexually assaulted her during those meetings, according to court documents. At all times Macleod knew how important (the womans) phone calls with her daughter were to her and he knew that (the woman) would need to go through him in order to have the calls, the lawsuit stated. The woman was transferred to another housing unit but Macleod made a special effort to remain her counselor, the lawsuit stated. The woman did not report Macleods misconduct for fear of retribution. Macleod told the woman that he had a friend in the prison system, Sexton, who advised him on avoiding punishment, according to the lawsuit. (The woman) understood this to mean that Macleod would not be held accountable for his actions even if she did report his misconduct, the lawsuit stated. Macleods abuse of the woman continued through at least May 2017, before she was assigned a new counselor, according to the lawsuit. Advertisement The woman was subsequently transferred to Decatur Correctional Center. The prison was farther from some family members and, in court documents, she described the transfer as an act of retaliation. The suit alleged that prison personnel at Logan knew as early as February 2017 that Macleod was in fact engaging in this pattern of abuse, knew of a substantial likelihood that defendant Macleod was sexually abusing prisoners at Logan, and/or failed to take reasonable steps to prevent it from continuing. According to court documents, 54 incidents of staff-on-inmate sexual misconduct at Logan were reported in 2016, according to the lawsuit. The Illinois State Police investigated the allegations against Macleod, and one investigator later testified that she suspected Macleod abused other inmates as well as the plaintiff, according to court documents. In the summer of 2017, Logans assistant warden, Angel Wilson, recommended that Macleod be locked out of working at the prison, according to court documents. But Macleod stayed at Logan for 13 months, and was paid an annual salary of more than $97,500 as of 2019, according to court documents. Macleod resigned from IDOC in July 2021 and was briefly employed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services in 2022 before being discharged by the department, according to a DCFS spokeswoman who said she could not provide more details on his firing. Advertisement Macleod never showed up for hearings or otherwise engaged in the case over five years, according to Nicole Schult, legal director of the Uptown Peoples Law Center. A Springfield judge issued a default judgment against him, allowing the assaults to be admissible as fact in court, according to Schult and court transcripts. The state police investigated the alleged assaults against Jane Doe and other Logan inmates and recommended charges against Macleod, but the attorney generals office declined to prosecute, according to Christina Sharkey, a former partner at Kirkland & Ellis who worked on the plaintiffs behalf. Among other issues, DNA evidence was never collected. Macleod could not be reached for comment. Sexton still works at the Department of Corrections, a spokesperson confirmed. The states prison system faces issues on a number of fronts. On Tuesday, the states auditor general issued a report covering a two-year period ending in June 2022 that laid out several deficiencies at IDOC, including failing to adequately train some of its employees. IDOC officials told the auditor general they have made an effort to better train its employees, which was more difficult to do in the last few years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and pay down the liabilities owed by the commissary funds. Advertisement IDOC has been under a federally mandated consent decree to overhaul its health care system since 2019, Gov. J.B. Pritzkers first year in office. The decree stemmed from a 2010 lawsuit filed by prisoners who alleged systemic problems that led to serious disease and even death for prisoners Last year, a federal monitor tasked with overseeing reforms within IDOC issued a report saying the prison system failed to provide adequate health care for the roughly 29,000 people who are incarcerated in the system. Shortcomings outlined in the report ranged from the mistreatment of elderly inmates to a severe shortage of doctors and nurses, as well as poor record-keeping. jgorner@chicagotribune.com iarougheti@chicagotribune.com Denison University's Beck Series presents its Fall 2023 schedule. The Beck Series brings award-winning authors to Denison for the entire community to enjoy. The events are free and open to the public. For more information, contact Margot Singer at singerm@denison.edu or visit www.denison.edu/beck. The complete Fall 2023 Beck Series schedule includes: Tuesday, Oct. 3, at 4:30 p.m., Angus Fletcher presents a reading in the boardroom of the Barney-Davis Hall, located at 200 W. Loop. Fletcher is a professor of Story Science at The Ohio State Universitys Project Narrative, the worlds leading academic think tank for the study of how stories work. His research employs a mix of laboratory experiment, literary history and rhetorical theory to explore the psychological effects of different narrative technologies. His most recent book, "Wonderworks: The 25 Most Powerful Inventions in the History of Literature" (2021) details the mental health and wellbeing benefits of literary breakthroughs from ancient Sumer to the present day. He has also worked for more than a decade as a consultant for film and television producers at Disney, Sony, the BBC, Amazon, and PBS. Tuesday, Oct. 10, at 4:30 p.m., Iya Kiva presents a poetry reading in the Denison Museum, located at 240 W. Broadway, on the lower level of the Eisner Center for the Performing Arts. A poet, translator, and journalist, Kiva was born in Donetsk and fled the war in 2014 to settle in Kyiv, Ukraine. Shortly after arriving, she began shifting from writing in her native Russian to writing in her second language, Ukrainian, and now writes exclusively in Ukrainian. She is the author of two volumes of poetry, "Further from Heaven" (Podalshe ot raya, 2018) and "The First Page of Winter" (Persha storinka zimy, 2019), and has received numerous awards for her poetry and translation. Her poetry is presented in conjunction with the Denison Museum's exhibition "Art in the Time of War" and "Dear Ukraine: A Global Community Poem." Thursday, Nov. 9, at 7 p.m., Julia Kolchinsky Dasbach presents a poetry reading in the Denison Museum, located at 240 W. Broadway, on the lower level of the Eisner Center for the Performing Arts. Dasbach came to the United States as a Jewish refugee in 1993, from Dnipro, Ukraine, and grew up in Rockville, Maryland. She holds an MFA in Poetry from the University of Oregon and a Ph.D. in Comparative Literature and Literary Theory from the University of Pennsylvania. Her newest collection of poetry is "40 WEEKS" (2023). She is also the author of the poetry collections "Dont Touch the Bones" (2020) and "The Many Names for Mother" (2018). Her poems have been published in POETRY, American Poetry Review, and The Nation, among other literary journals. Having taught at Hendrix College in Little Rock, Arkansas, she is now an assistant professor at Denison and lives with her family in Westerville, Ohio. A Denver woman has been found alive after vanishing for five days on her way home from Mexico, it has been reported. Alison Uralli had been missing since September 22, when she was last sighted in a San Diego supermarket. She was reportedly found safe late on Wednesday (September 27). The 28-year-old had gone on a trip in Mexico with her fiance David Zimmerman and was said to have been on her way to the airport in the Californian city to fly back to Colorado when she was last seen in Target. A Facebook page set up to help find Ms Uralli confirmed her whereabouts. Early this afternoon, thanks to the efforts of local resources and law enforcement, Alison Uralli was located alive in San Diego, a post read. Early this afternoon, thanks to the efforts of local resources and law enforcement, Alison Uralli was located alive in San Diego. Alisons fiances whereabouts are still unknown at this time. There are obviously many unanswered questions in this case. It is up to the families pic.twitter.com/pSwgeARzFU Lauren Lee Malloy (@LaurenLee_915) September 27, 2023 Mr Zimmermans whereabouts are still unknown at this time, the post added, although there has not been a wide appeal to find him. The pair have been engaged since May 2022. The statement continued: Alisons loved ones extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped raise awareness, sent tips and kept a spotlight on her case. Thanks in large part to the public, Alison was found alive. A poster to help find Alison Uralli (June Makin / Facebook) It added: There are obviously many unanswered questions in this case. It is up to the families and law enforcement what additional information will be released, if any. Please respect the familys privacy as they navigate next steps and process emotions of the last several days. The Denver Police Department had told The Independent earlier on Wednesday that no case was open for Ms Uralli, while San Diego Police confirmed they were looking into it. A picture posted to help find Rachel Uralli (Facebook) A friend had compared Ms Uralli to actress Rachel McAdams amid the search and shared the above photo. Alison is like Rachel McAdams in the early 2000s, she has many different hair colors and it always looks amazing on her, she wrote on Facebook. This is Alisons last known hair colour and pictures of her prominent tattoos for identification purposes. Please be ok sweet girl. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) defended his states updated and controversial Black history curriculum during the second GOP debate, decrying the hoax that was perpetuated by Kamala Harris regarding the new educational standards. So first of all, thats a hoax that was perpetrated by Kamala Harris. We are not going to be doing that, DeSantis said when asked about backlash over Floridas Black history curriculum, which suggests to students that slavery offered benefits. Second of all, that was written by descendants of slaves. These are great Black history scholars. So we need to stop playing these games, he continued. Heres the deal: Our countrys education system is in decline because its focused on indoctrination, denying parents rights. Florida represents the revival of American education. The contested line in the educational curriculum is part of a benchmark clarification that instruction includes how slaves developed skills which, in some instances, could be applied for their personal benefit. Vice President Harris has pushed back on the curriculum, saying during a visit to Florida this year that there were no redeeming qualities of slavery a sentiment that Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) doubled down on during the debate as he furthered his criticism of the curriculum. There is not a redeeming quality in slavery. He and Kamala should have just taken the one sentence out. America has suffered because of slavery, Scott said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Most of the Republican presidential candidates came out swinging Wednesday night at each other. But former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie threw the first punch at ex-President Donald Trump , who again did not deign to show up at the second GOP debate: He should be here! Christie said. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis followed up: Donald Trump is missing in action, he told the audience. He owes it to you to defend his record. They were absolutely right. Still, anyone who had high hopes that candidates for the Republican presidential nomination would speak harsh truths about Trump, his animus for our democracy and his thorough unfitness for serve in the Oval Office again got a little more than expected, but not much. With his poll numbers tanking and his aura as the only candidate who can take on Trump fading, DeSantis needed a breakthrough, a breakout moment or, given his flagging campaign, a break. And there was one moment at the end, when Fox moderators pulled a dumb move and asked candidates to vote someone in their group off the island. DeSantis spoke up, resolute and clear, declaring it the disrespectful stunt that it most certainly was. In fact, Floridas governor performed well, if not spectacularly. He seemed a bit more relatable in this second debate. The Editorial Board was among those who noted that, at this point especially for DeSantis there was little to lose in making clear that Emperor Trump has no clothes. And yet he and the others pretty much pulled their punches, mostly ignoring the outsized candidate who wasnt there and who is trouncing them in the polls. DeSantis continued to push the Florida Blueprint, touting all he has done in or, depending on your politics, to our state. In fact, many questions seemed tailor-made to allow him to promote his restrictive policies, many of which have been or are being challenged in court as unconstitutional. He left that part out. Hell send the military after the drug cartels at the countrys southern border. He will complete the wall, and drug traffickers will be treated like the foreign terrorist organizations that they are. Confronting crime, he said: We back the blue. They are keeping us safe. Then he crowed about removing two duly elected state prosecutors from their posts in Florida, followed by a vow to use the U.S. Justice Department to target Soros-funded prosecutors. Was that a wink to antisemites? He said the benefits of slavery school curriculum controversy is a hoax promulgated by Vice President Kamala Harris, before pivoting to universal school choice. He compared himself to Ronald Reagan, saying he was standing with parents. He said he can win on an anti-abortion platform across the country, as he did in Florida, which let him get in a late-breaking jab: Trump is missing in action. He should be here explaining why pro-life protections are a terrible thing. The former president recently criticized Floridas six-week abortion ban. He went after China and its expanding economic footprint in Latin America. He mischaracterized his controversial law that, he said, bans the Communist Chinese Party from buying property in Florida. In truth, the law limits land purchases by Chinese citizens. His best line needed no spin. In Florida, he said, The Democratic Party lies in ruins. There was one fewer candidate on stage Wednesday and that may have been a good thing. No matter who pundits and voters think won the debate, the candidates and the rest of us were the losers as backbiting, interruptions and raucous verbal wrestling drowned out individual speakers. Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson didnt meet the requirements to participate this time around, leaving the stage to DeSantis, Christie, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, former Vice President Mike Pence, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott. Once again, Trump did not see the need to be onstage to defend himself. And DeSantis is still at least 40 points him in some polls. Its a huge gap. But DeSantis steadfast presentation Wednesday night may have nudged the needle in the right direction for him, a bit. Governor Ron DeSantis came under fire during Wednesday nights second GOP Presidential Primary debate after having mostly escaped direct criticism during the first debate. First, former Vice President Mike Pence took a shot at DeSantis on the state budget. You know, Ron you talk a really good game about cutting spending, but youve increased spending in Florida by 30 percent, said Pence. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< DeSantis didnt get an opportunity to respond due to a commercial break, but UCF Political Science Professor Dr. Aubrey Jewett said its true spending has gone up under DeSantis. However, the state has also increased its reserves to historic levels and paid down billions on its debts. Tax revenues have gone up, our population has gone up and we got a lot of federal dollars because of COVID and that sort of thing. As the state constitution requires, we ran a balanced budget every year, said Jewett. Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley hit DeSantis on energy in a heated exchange. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] You banned fracking. You banned offshore drilling, said Haley. Our voters enacted a constitutional amendment, rebutted DeSantis. You banned it before they voted, said Haley. No, thats not true, replied DeSantis. In reality, voters did approve Amendment 9, which banned offshore drilling in 2018 - The same year DeSantis won the Governors mansion. Two months later, DeSantis did sign an executive order on his second day in office directing the Department of Environmental Protection to oppose fracking and offshore drilling, but an effort to ban fracking in Florida failed to pass the state legislature that year. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Was Haley correct by saying DeSantis banned fracking? No. But was he clearly against fracking and oil drilling off of Florida when he was running for office? Absolutely, said Jewett. Finally, DeSantis was asked about the states new African American history standards, which include instruction on skills slaves learned that could be applied for their personal benefit. First of all, thats a hoax that was perpetrated by Kamala Harris. We are not gonna be doing that. Second of all, that was written by dependents of slaves. These are great Black history scholars. So, we need to stop playing these games, said DeSantis in his response. There is not a redeeming quality in slavery. He and Kamala should have just taken the one sentence out, US Senator Tim Scott (R-South Carolina) said in a follow-up response. On that one, Jewett argued theres no getting around the direct language in the standards. Thats in the standards, but I guess it does depend on how you interpret that, and for a lot of African Americans, understandably they interpret that pretty negatively, said Jewett. Jewett noted while DeSantis was the target of many attacks, he strayed away from attacking his fellow candidates on the stage. However, he did target former President Donald Trump for racking up the national debt and failing to appear on the debate stage. 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. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) suggested he debate former President Trump one-on-one with Fox News host Sean Hannity serving as a moderator following Wednesday evenings second GOP primary debate. And you know what, since the former president didnt come here, maybe hed be willing to do one with you and I, DeSantis told Hannity during Fox Business Networks post-debate coverage from the spin room in Simi Valley, Calif. I think he owes it to our voters to come and make the case. Hannity asked DeSantis: Are you now challenging this is going to be Hannity one on one? Lets do it! DeSantis exclaimed. Id do it. Id do anything; Ill ask him, said Hannity, a personal friend of Trumps for years. Trump, the clear front-runner for the nomination, has skipped both the Republican primary debates so far, citing his large lead in most polls and what he says is a hostile relationship with Fox, the network that has hosted and aired the events. Fox earlier this week announced that DeSantis, who is polling ahead of most other GOP candidates in the field, would participate in a red vs. blue state debate in November with California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D), who was at Wednesday nights GOP debate acting as a surrogate for President Biden. You have to come here; you have to make the case, DeSantis said. Nobody is entitled to anything. In a statement sent minutes after DeSantiss apparent challenge to Trump, a spokesperson for the former president said: Sorry, Ron. Were not as thirsty and desperate like you or sleazeball partner Gavin Newsom. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis defended his states new Black history education standards during the second Republican presidential debate on Wednesday, dismissing criticism of the curriculum as a hoax and consequently drawing a rebuke from the only Black candidate on the debate stage, U.S. Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina. Asked about a provision in the curriculum which was approved by the Florida state Board of Education in July that teaches that some enslaved people learned skills that ultimately were used for their personal benefit, DeSantis quickly brushed off the question as a bad-faith reading of the standards. First of all, thats a hoax that was perpetrated by Kamala Harris, DeSantis said, referring to the U.S. vice president, who has repeatedly accused Florida officials of trying to white-wash the darkest chapters of U.S. history. He also noted that the curriculum was developed by great Black history scholars and was approved by the state Board of Education. DeSantis instead insisted that Florida leads the country in education and should serve as a template for other states. He also boasted that he eliminated so-called critical race theory from Florida schools and refocused the states education standards on the Constitution and traditional civics. But DeSantis remarks also received pushback from Scott, who responded by noting that there is not a redeeming quality in slavery. America has suffered because of slavery, but weve overcome that, Scott said. We are the greatest nation on earth because we faced our demons in the mirror and made a decision. Scott said Floridas Board of Education should have cut the controversial line from its standards. It wasnt the first time that Scott has taken issue with Floridas Black history standards. He criticized the curriculum in July when asked about it during a trip to Iowa, saying that what slavery was really about was separating families, about mutilating humans and even raping their wives. I would hope that every person in our country and certainly running for president would appreciate that, Scott said. (Bloomberg) -- Florida Governor Ron DeSantis invoked former President Ronald Reagan in the Republican debate on Wednesday, arguing that he would follow a hard power approach to China. Most Read from Bloomberg DeSantis said hes concerned about Chinas military and economic outreach in Latin America, and he touted controversial policies in his state to prevent Chinese citizens from buying land, saying it should be applied nationwide. Later in the debate, DeSantis said the US has essentially subcontracted out too many essential industries to China, calling it the top American adversary by a country mile. China criticism also emerged in attacks on the social media app TikTok, with candidates including former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley saying it is too addictive. She also said the next president needs to do more to pressure China over the fentanyl crisis, saying former President Donald Trump didnt do enough on that front. For more on Republican Party Presidential Debate, click here for our TOPLive blog on the Terminal and here online. (Adds additional comments from DeSantis and Haley from third paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. (WTAJ) Saturn is a visual marvel in our solar system, but how did it get those awe-inspiring rings? A new series of NASA supercomputer simulations might have the answer. In fact, they believe the rings formed back when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. NASA released a video explaining that the rings potentially evolved from debris created after two icy moons smashed into each other a few hundred million years ago. The debris may have also combined to create some of Saturns 145 moons. How to see the ring of fire eclipse this October, total solar eclipse in April 24 Theres so much we still dont know about the Saturn system, including its moons that host environments that might be suitable for life, said Jacob Kegerreis, a research scientist at NASAs Ames Research Center in Californias Silicon Valley. So, its exciting to use big simulations like these to explore in detail how they could have evolved. NASAs Cassini mission made scientists question just how young Saturns rings and some moons might actually be. This opened up new questions about how everything formed around Saturn. Saturns rings currently live in the Roche limit. Its the farthest orbit where a planets gravity is powerful enough to tear apart large pieces of rock or ice, according to NASA. Beyond this point, these materials could have formed moons. When the icy progenitor moons smash into one another, the rock in the cores of the colliding bodies is dispersed less widely than the overlying ice, said Vincent Eke, an associate professor at Durham Universitys Department of Physics and Institute for Computational Cosmology. Scientists simulated nearly 200 versions of the impact and found several scenarios that would scatter the right amount of ice into Saturns Roche limit, creating those iconic rings. This would explain why Saturns rings are made of almost entirely ice chunks. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Deborah Hoffmann holds a photo of her ex-husband, Dean Hoffmann, on Sept. 9 in Cedarburg. Editors note: This article discusses suicide and suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. Dean Hoffmann often talked about freedom in letters to his family. From his cell in Dodge Correctional Institution, he dreamed of creating a home in the countryside, where he would raise chickens and grow rhubarb, asparagus and peas. He wrote about his passion for reading and his love for his children. In a letter to his son, postmarked in March, he said he was excited about the future. I am not sad or depressed in here, he wrote. ... Being free again will be great. Three months later, shortly after being transferred to Waupun Correctional Institution, Deans family learned he had died by suicide after nine days in solitary confinement. Dean, who was 60 years old, had a documented history of mental health challenges, including bipolar disorder and suicidal thoughts, according to his family and medical records reviewed by the Journal Sentinel. At the time of his death, he was serving a 28 year sentence for assaulting and tying up his ex-girlfriend in 2018. It was his first criminal charge. Deans ex-wife and children are now questioning whether the prison gave him adequate mental health treatment and whether solitary confinement was appropriate, given his diagnosis. Barry Hoffman holds his father's urn. His death also raises larger questions about access to mental health care in Wisconsin jails and prisons, transparency around in-custody deaths, and the frequent use of solitary confinement across the state correctional system. The state's use of solitary confinement has been on the rise since March, in particular for people with serious mental illnesses, according to figures from the Wisconsin Department of Corrections. Moreover, Deans death came amid the lockdown at Waupun Correctional Institution, now in its sixth month. People incarcerated at Waupun during this time have been locked in their cells typically 24 hours a day, are not permitted visitors and are banned from gathering in communal spaces. Prisoners say they are living in inhumane conditions and being denied legal services. Prison officials have not signaled an end to the lockdown. DOC spokesperson Kevin Hoffman declined to answer questions about Deans mental health care while in custody, citing HIPAA, a medical privacy law. However, he said Dean would not have been denied medication or treatment if a medical professional deemed them necessary. He said Deans was the only suicide at the Waupun prison since the lockdown. But Justin Welch, who has been incarcerated at Waupun since last November, said multiple people have attempted suicide in recent months. In an email to the Journal Sentinel last week, he blamed the stress of the lockdown and the shortage of mental health staff. It just kills me, Welch wrote. This should not be happening on this level at any prison in this country. Dean faced mental health challenges Dean and Deborah were childhood sweethearts, meeting in Cedarburg when they were both 18 years old. He was an avid reader and writer, Deborah said. After having two children, they divorced in 1991 but remained close, according to Deborah. Shortly after they split, Dean was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. For the next 30 years, she said Dean managed his disorder with various medications, although he sometimes struggled with taking it consistently. Paperwork from Ascension Columbia St. Mary's Ozaukee in Mequon shows Dean was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation" and noncompliance with medications in 2015. His medical record showed two medications: one antidepressant and another medication commonly use to treat seizures or the manic phase of bipolar disorder. Deborah Hoffmann (center) and her children Megan Kolb (left) and Barry Hoffmann (right) go through family photos. Three years later, according to court records, Dean was arrested in Sheboygan County after entering his ex-girlfriend's house without permission, punching her and tying her up, before ordering pizza. Prosecutors charged Dean with a host of crimes, including kidnapping, battery and strangulation. About a year later, he received more charges, including conspiracy to commit murder, following a conversation in which he encouraged a friend to contact his ex-girlfriend. Dean pleaded not guilty by mental disease. Court records show a psychologist ultimately testified that Dean had bipolar disorder but was capable of understanding the consequences of his actions. The psychologist's report also noted that, according to Deborah, Dean had stated to multiple people in the days prior to the incident that he was suicidal. Deborah said Dean was initially "incoherent" after his arrest but soon stabilized while in Sheboygan County Jail. Dean wrote his family many letters stating how well he was doing. But in the lead-up to his trial in 2022, something changed, according to Deborah. She said it became difficult to hold conversations with Dean again. I know Dean medicated, I know Dean not medicated, and I was becoming increasingly concerned, she said. While the family was unable to confirm their suspicions, letters from Dean and a handful of medical request forms from the months of May to October 2022 show Dean was concerned about his medical care. In one letter, he said a nurse told him he would no longer be receiving his medication because he was refusing to take it. In another, he asked if he could see a doctor. Sheboygan County Sheriff Cory Roeseler declined to comment about Deans medical care at the jail, citing HIPAA. Megan Kolb holds her favorite photo of her and her father on her wedding day. During his trial, Deans mental health continued to be a concern, according to his former attorney, John Schiro. Schiro said Dean began to ignore his guidance and instead started taking legal advice over the phone from a prisoner in Oklahoma. Schiro and a second attorney both eventually withdrew from the case. In February, after more than four years awaiting trial, Dean was convicted on all charges except for conspiracy to commit murder. He was sentenced to 28 years in prison, without an attorney present. He was then transferred to Dodge Correctional Institution, where recently convicted people are given medical and mental health evaluations and assigned to the appropriate correctional facility. There, Dean was assigned to Waupun one of Wisconsins five maximum-security prisons. David Liners, executive director of prison advocacy group WISDOM, has urged corrections officials to place individuals with severe mental health conditions in the Wisconsin Resource Center in Oshkosh, which is run by the states Department of Health Services instead of the DOC. We know how to deal with people with severe mental health issues and yet we reserve it for this tiny number, Liners said. And then theres a whole lot of other people languishing in these places in particular in these really unhealthy places like Waupun and Green Bay (Correctional Institution). Schiro does not feel the justice system took enough account of Deans mental health challenges. He shouldnt have been in a lockdown prison, Schiro said. He should have been in a locked medical facility. Phone calls from Dean stopped coming Dean arrived at Waupun on April 10, less than two weeks after the start of the lockdown. Immediately, Dean began to tell Deborah about the horrors unfolding at the prison, saying he was placed in one of the worst cell halls. Deborah Hoffmann holds a photo of Dean Hoffmann on Saturday September 9, 2023 in Cedarburg, Wis. He would just keep saying, Its just so bad here. Its just so bad, Deborah said. On May 5, in one of the only letters Dean sent from Waupun, he wrote to Deborah that he was trying to get on the right supplements. Deborah believes he was taking over-the-counter vitamins to manage his bipolar disorder, in lieu of proper medication. She said when they did connect on the phone it was brief and difficult to hold a conversation. Eventually Dean went silent. On June 20, Dean was placed in solitary confinement for disobeying orders and refusing to lock up in his cell, according to DOC. Nine days later, Dean was dead by suicide. A prisoner at Waupun, whom the Journal Sentinel is not naming due to concerns about retaliation, said in an email to the Journal Sentinel last week that he often overheard Dean complaining about his medication. Shortly before Deans death, the prisoner said he also heard Dean telling guards he felt suicidal. As usual, they ignored him, the prisoner wrote. The DOC declined to answer questions about whether it had any record of Dean reporting suicidal thoughts prior to his death, citing patient privacy. Research shows consequences of solitary confinement Starting in 2009, lawmakers across the country have passed or introduced bills that would curb or stop the use of solitary confinement. A 2020 review of 13 studies on solitary confinement found that the practice was associated with increased probability of negative psychological effects, including self-harm and death especially by suicide. But, like many states, Wisconsins use of solitary continues. A correctional officer monitors an entrance to the Waupun Correctional Institution on Sept. 19. According to DOC data, 957 people were in solitary confinement as of August, including 122 people with serious mental health illnesses such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and severe depression. During that same time period, Waupun Correctional Institution had 144 people in solitary confinement, including 22 people with severe mental illness. Dr. Terry Kupers, a forensic psychiatrist at the Wright Institute in Berkeley, California, said the practice causes a huge amount of mental damage. There's a proclivity for people who have any kind of inkling of a suicidal intention or plan for that to become more intense and compelling, Kupers said. In 2001, the American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin sued the DOC over conditions at the supermax prison in Boscobel, now known as the Wisconsin Secure Program Facility, which was holding prisoners in long-term solitary confinement. The federal judge overseeing the case ultimately ordered that prisoners with serious mental health illnesses be removed on an emergency basis. David Fathi, director of the ACLUs National Prison Project, said the fact that the practice continues is alarming. The Wisconsin prison system should know from this case more than 20 years ago that solitary confinement of people with serious mental illness is extraordinarily dangerous, Fathi said. It's one of the most dangerous things you can do as a prison administrator. Waupun Correctional Institution is in its sixth month of lockdown. Prisoners say they are living in inhumane conditions and being denied visitors and legal services. Family seeks justice, with few results Shortly after Deans death, his family received what remained of his belongings: some clothes, a few electronics and nine bottles of vitamins. Notably absent were any pens or notebooks, a sign that Dean had stopped writing one of his lifelong hobbies. Ever since, his children and ex-wife have been lobbying to bring attention to his case. In July, Deborah wrote to the state Department of Justice about Deans death. A week later, she received a form letter stating that the agency decided not to take further action. We receive several thousand reports of civil rights violations each year, the DOJ letter stated. We unfortunately do not have the resources to take direct action for every report. Deborah also wrote to Gov. Tony Evers office, which offered condolences but declined to provide further information, pending the outcome of DOCs investigation. In a statement to the Journal Sentinel, Evers spokesperson Britt Cudaback again offered condolences but deferred questions to DOC. It is a tragedy any time a person in the care of one of Wisconsins correctional institutions passes away, Cudaback wrote. However, she said, We will continue to rely upon department leaderships professional judgment in determining what changes or modifications are necessary and when. Prisoner deaths are investigated internally by the DOCs Committee on Inmate and Youth Deaths, as well as local law enforcement. The DOC has concluded its investigation, according to a department spokesperson, but has not responded to a records request to release the report. The Dodge County Sheriffs Office also said its investigation is finished but declined to provide records, citing a victim's rights law. Deborah still gets emotional when she imagines the torment her ex-husband likely felt as he sat alone in his cell. She says her family discussed bringing Deans grandchildren to Waupun to visit him, but they never got the chance because of the lockdown. He didnt deserve to die like this, she said. No one deserves to die like this. Contact Drake Bentley at dbentley1@gannett.com or 414-391-5647. Contact Vanessa Swales at vswales@gannett.com or 414-308-5881. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: A man died by suicide during the Waupun prison lockdown. His family wants answers. A message left by a group calling itself the "Indian Cyber Force" is seen on an archived version of a website of a Canadian dental clinic A message left by a group calling itself the "Indian Cyber Force" is seen on an archived version of a website of a Canadian dental clinic By Raphael Satter WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A handful of Canadian websites were defaced and the site for the country's armed forces was briefly disrupted Wednesday amid simmering tensions with India. The low-level hacks were claimed by an obscure pro-India group going by the name "Indian Cyber Force," whose logo includes an American bald eagle with orange and green wings, the colors of the Indian flag. The hackers told Reuters via Telegram, "Everyone know" why they were targeting Canada but did not elaborate. The group has previously said it was retaliating against Canadian allegations that India had a hand in the killing of Sikh separatist leader outside Vancouver on June 18. Indian officials have denied the charge and downsized the Ottawa's diplomatic presence in India, issuing travel warnings and freezing visa issuance to Canadians. Digital vandalism is typical whenever tensions between two countries rise and intrusions of the kind claimed by the Cyber Force rarely deal lasting damage. Several targeted websites appeared to have been picked at random; among them was an Ontario dental clinic. The Canadian Armed Forces said in an email Thursday that the disruption had been limited to a few hours and has since been "rectified." The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security said in a statement that "geopolitical events often result in an increase in disruptive cyber campaigns" and that it was keeping an eye out for developing threats. (Reporting by Raphael Satter; Additional reporting by David Ljunggren in Ottawa; Editing by Cynthia Osterman) A California doctor who specialized in treating LGBTQ+ patients was charged with sexually assaulting nine men through his practice, prosecutors announced. Dr. William Thompson IV, 56, an infectious disease doctor, is facing charges including sexual battery, forcible oral copulation, and sexual penetration by means of fraudulent representation of professional purpose in connection to nine patients who said he sexually assaulted them between 2016 and 2020, prosecutors said. Dr. William Thompson IV via Orange County District Attorney's Office Dr. William Thompson IV via Orange County District Attorney's Office Many of Dr. Thompsons patients depended on him to provide life-saving care and he exploited those vulnerabilities for his own sexual gratification, Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer said in the statement. Thompsons website, which has been taken down, described him as providing General Practitioner services to the LGBTQ Community including treating HIV, and he was affiliated with Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian. The hospital did not immediately respond to a HuffPost request for a comment. According to prosecutors, six of Thompsons former patients accused the doctor of sexual assault upon learning that the procedures conducted on them were not necessary. Thompson was arrested on Sept. 20 after an investigation was launched by the California Department of Consumer Affairs and the Newport Beach Police Department. According to a criminal complaint obtained by HuffPost, some of Thompsons former patients said that at the time, they believed the sexual penetration served a professional purpose, while one patient said they were unconscious at the time of the assault. According to prosecutors, Thompson has yet to enter a plea and was released on $100,000 bond following his arrest. He is scheduled to appear in court on Nov. 2. Prosecutors said Thompson now faces a maximum sentence of 30 years to life with an additional 25 years in prison if convicted of all charges. A doctors office should be a place where patients can safely share their most personal vulnerabilities without having to fear they will be preyed upon by a sexual predator, Spitzer said. No one should be violated in such a shameful way by someone who has taken an oath to protect their patients. Officials are asking for the publics assistance to provide any additional information regarding Thompsons practice, and other potential victims can call Newport Beach Police Department at 949-644-3682 or make an anonymous tip to 1-800-550-6273. Related... The upcoming A&E documentary Cold Case Files : The Rifkin Murders examines 1990s New York serial killer Joel Rifkin and a team attempting to discover two of his unidentified victims. The special, which will air Saturday was produced by Peter Reiss, who first met Rifkin in 1998 after contacting him for a documentary he was creating about how biology factors into killing. I was intrigued by Rifkin because he didnt seem to have a lot of the normal traits that people associate with being a serial killer, Reiss told CNN. He came from a loving home with loving parents, had a good relationship with his sister, went to good schools and kind of was given a lot of the things that you need to succeed in life. And, yet, he still turned into a serial killer, he said. Rifkin is thought to have murdered 17 female prostitutes in New York throughout the early 1990s and is currently serving multiple life sentences in prison, stemming from his 1994 conviction for the murder of nine of the women. In a trailer for the new documentary, Rifkin can be seen in conversation with Reiss trying to recall details about one of his potential victims from years ago. So much has changed, is there anything still left to look for? Rifkin asks. Hes shown well over a hundred images of women to try to find the missing ones. But even in the short clip, its difficult for him to remember anything specific, even after pinpointing one woman he suspects as being a potential match. I dumped them hundreds of miles apart, Rifkin told the Daily News in 2010 during a 70-minute interview at the upstate prison where hes being held. I became addicted to sex and companionship, he said. There was no sentimentality in his words as he described what he did to the women after they were beaten and strangled. You carve em like a turkey, he grimly stated. Rifkin was ultimately arrested in 1993 at age 34 after a slow-speed chase with police in Mineola, L.I., that ended with him crashing into a utility pole. When cops found a dead body in the back of the pickup truck he was driving, Rifkin bluntly told them, I killed her. She was a prostitute. NEW YORK The upcoming A&E documentary Cold Case Files : The Rifkin Murders examines 1990s New York serial killer Joel Rifkin and a team attempting to discover two of his unidentified victims. The special, which will air Saturday was produced by Peter Reiss, who first met Rifkin in 1998 after contacting him for a documentary he was creating about how biology factors into killing. I was intrigued by Rifkin because he didnt seem to have a lot of the normal traits that people associate with being a serial killer, Reiss told CNN. He came from a loving home with loving parents, had a good relationship with his sister, went to good schools and kind of was given a lot of the things that you need to succeed in life. And, yet, he still turned into a serial killer, he said. Rifkin is thought to have murdered 17 female prostitutes in New York throughout the early 1990s and is currently serving multiple life sentences in prison, stemming from his 1994 conviction for the murder of nine of the women. In a trailer for the new documentary, Rifkin can be seen in conversation with Reiss trying to recall details about one of his potential victims from years ago. So much has changed, is there anything still left to look for? Rifkin asks. Hes shown well over a hundred images of women to try to find the missing ones. But even in the short clip, its difficult for him to remember anything specific, even after pinpointing one woman he suspects as being a potential match. I dumped them hundreds of miles apart, Rifkin told the Daily News in 2010 during a 70-minute interview at the upstate prison where hes being held. I became addicted to sex and companionship, he said. There was no sentimentality in his words as he described what he did to the women after they were beaten and strangled. You carve em like a turkey, he grimly stated. Rifkin was ultimately arrested in 1993 at age 34 after a slow-speed chase with police in Mineola, Long Island, that ended with him crashing into a utility pole. When cops found a dead body in the back of the pickup truck he was driving, Rifkin bluntly told them, I killed her. She was a prostitute. What is Matt Gaetz's endgame: spending cuts, a political boost, or revenge? Its the question reverberating on Capitol Hill after the simmering feud between the Florida conservative and Speaker Kevin McCarthy flared up again Thursday morning in a closed-door meeting, with one lawmaker telling Gaetz to fuck off for leveling unproven accusations against the speaker. Gaetz has threatened to force a vote on booting McCarthy for weeks, publicly called him pathetic and accused him of lying multiple times. Hill Republicans, when granted anonymity to speak candidly, say they don't believe Gaetz when he insists it "isn't personal (though rank-and-file GOP lawmakers are quick to add they dont know what has set off the Florida Republican). Some in the GOP chalk it up to Gaetz seeking a future foothold as a conservative TV pundit, others to a desire for name recognition ahead of his widely expected gubernatorial bid in 2026. Still others say hes sincere in his demands for more spending cuts before voting to fund the government. The speaker hasn't publicly weighed in. But in private, McCarthy has questioned what he could have done to trigger this level of hostility from Gaetz, according to a longtime ally of the speaker. Other McCarthy allies have theorized that Gaetz's fury dates back to a now-closed Justice Department inquiry into sex trafficking allegations, when some in the House GOP came just short of openly celebrating his potential political demise. Gaetz said in a brief interview that he doesn't fault McCarthy for anything related to that probe: No, I think that was all handled fine." And he denied he's running for governor, saying in a statement to POLITICO: "I am singularly focused on my current job in Congress. Im exactly where Im supposed to be, doing exactly what Im supposed to be doing. I am not making plans to run for governor or any other office. Still, calling Gaetz a thorn in McCarthys side would be an understatement. The Floridian has repeatedly threatened to call for a vote to strip the speaker's gavel if he works with Democrats to avert a government shutdown. Hes the most vocal among the conservatives who have sworn to oppose any stopgap plan to keep the government's lights on, and while he's not in the House Freedom Caucus, he counts many of its most obstreperous members as frequent allies. McCarthy knows a long shutdown imperils his hold on his thin majority come 2025 and the threat of a challenge to his speakership before the crisis is over looms large. Which Gaetz is openly, repeatedly, pushing for. The Californian pointedly declined to criticize Gaetz during the federal sex trafficking probe that ensnared him. But in recent weeks, as their relationship curdled, McCarthy has occasionally hurled his own accusations back at Gaetz while shrugging off the threats with Matt is Matt. The speaker alleged to reporters earlier this month that the conservative was working against him alongside Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.), referring to frustration over an unspecified ethics complaint. Their tense relationship began affecting the entire House GOP more than a year ago, when the Floridian vowed to nominate former President Donald Trump for speaker. That clear message of no confidence in McCarthy shortly thereafter translated into open resistance on the floor throughout Januarys speakership election. Gaetz never cast a ballot for McCarthy, remaining one of six conservatives who only after 14 failed rounds agreed to vote present in order to let the Californian claim the top gavel. Now, he insists that his repeated antagonizing of the speaker has everything to do with holding McCarthy to the promises he made during that standoff, including bringing all 12 individual spending bills to the House floor. Its based on the terms of the January agreement. If Kevin comes into compliance with the January agreement, he doesnt have any problems. If he continues to be out of compliance with the January agreement, hes got problems, Gaetz said, though he's publicly acknowledged that some of the priorities he's demanded from McCarthy would likely fail in floor votes. Immediately after the tense Thursday meeting, Gaetz brushed off reporters' questions on whether he was ready to force a vote to boot McCarthy from the speakership. He maintained that his principal goal is passing the individual spending bills the House GOP has struggled to clear this week. Some members believe theres more on Gaetzs mind, however. The Florida conservative has already built significant name recognition as McCarthys foil, and Republicans see Gaetz as someone who likes to punch up for political gain he's rumored to be eyeing Florida's governorship in 2026, when Gov. Ron DeSantis is termed out. That means allying himself with other gadflies, more so than just a partnership with hardliners in the Freedom Caucus. Some Republicans noted Gaetzs defense of former Rep. Katie Hill (D-Calif.) and Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), both progressives who have clashed with their own leadership, as a further sign he aligns himself with self-styled outsiders. I just really think that one person wants a lot of attention. It may not be all that personal. It is maybe made-up to be personal, GOP Rep. Carlos Gimenez said of his fellow Floridian, later clarifying that the attention-seeker he referenced was not McCarthy. I think [Gaetz] is just using that as a vehicle to run for governor, and he thinks that the one way to go lift his profile is becoming this rebel, Gimenez added, describing his motivations as despicable either way. Gaetz, or Baby Gaetz as he is known back in Florida, jumped from the state legislature to D.C. in 2017, where hed quickly trade in a bipartisan record for a reputation as a populist Donald Trump defender. It was a reinvention he almost openly boasted about in a 2019 interview with the New York Times saying that in the current political landscape youve got to have the ability to reinvent yourself in this game many times. It's a strategy thats worked well so far. In addition to the media attention he gets for his spat with McCarthy, Gaetz also earns positive feedback about it from his anti-establishment conservative base in Florida a key demographic if he wants to take the governorship in a few years. Asked about the Gaetz-McCarthy fight, Don Gaetz, the Florida congressman's father and a former state senator with considerable influence, said "there is no personal animus between him and Speaker McCarthy. What you see from Matt is what you are getting." Gary Fineout contributed to this report. During the relatively kinder, gentler, and saner days of the Obama administrationway back in the early 20-teensa misguided portion of the political commentariat subscribed to what was derisively termed the Green Lantern theory of presidential power. In short, it posited that presidential accomplishment is simply a matter of willpower (a reference to the titular DC comic book superheros ability to manifest astonishing superpowers simply by channeling his resolve). That President Barack Obama could not get Republicans to agree with his priorities, the thinking went, was a failing on the presidents part, and not a reflection of Republicans own resolve; their publicly avowed recalcitrance concerning denying Obama anything that might be construed as a legislative or political win; or the normal impediments innate to a system of checks, balances, and divided power. (Obama himself offered a different pop-culture comparison, memorably mangling it: Im presenting a fair deal; the fact that [Republicans] dont take it means that I should somehow, you know, do a Jedi mind-meld with these folks and convince them to do whats right, he said in 2015.) The weird conceit that the president can accomplish anything simply by wanting it more is nonsense that only became more apparent when Obamas successor actually attempted to run an entire presidency based on this belief. (Not that pundits ever held Trump to a similar standard.) Nevertheless, a variant of Green Lantern thinking is backand its helping drive the looming government shutdown. Instead of focusing on the presidency, it has become a generalized theory of politics, if not of governance itself, and it has taken on a darker, more explicitly truculent tone. Just to review: Were careering toward a shutdown because Congress hasnt passed bills to fund the government in the new fiscal year, which starts on Sunday. The source of the problem lies in the House, where Republicans havent been able to agree among themselves on a bill to fund the government on either a short-term basis (to buy time to hammer out a longer-term deal) or a long-term basis (even low-hanging fruit like funding the military has proven elusive). House Republicans are bickering about angels-on-the-head-of-a-pin stuff: The hard-right keeps pushing McCarthy for ever-greater spending cuts, never mind the fact that they will never make it through the Democrat-controlled Senate or receive President Joe Biden s signature. This is an immutable reality. Yet the GOPs wingnut caucus continues to fling barbs at hapless House Speaker Kevin McCarthy as if this was all somehow his doingas if despite (barely) holding control of one half of one branch of government, he ought to be able to extract political victories simply by dint of being the fightiest fighter ever to fight the scourge of big government. Forget Green Lantern, this variant is better described as the Keyser Soze theory of politics: If McCarthy will only demonstrate that he is a man of willwilling to tank the economy by forcing the U.S. into default or by causing yet another damaging government shutdownthen he can achieve the victories the right has been unable to notch at the ballot box. If he is not willing to fightfight and winthen he is going to fail Republicans, GOP Representative Victoria Spartz told Politicos Playbook last week. He is going to be tested one more time. From my perspective, hes already failed us twice. The third time, Im done. I judge people not on what they say, but the results. We need to win something. Republican Representative Eli Crane recently posted a video from the House gym calling for, you guessed it, more fight from the right. The way we do things in this town has to change, he said. Unfortunately, the only way were going to get any change in this town is through force. Representative Ralph Norman, another similar-minded crank, recently added, We got rolled on the debt ceiling. Were not gonna get rolled again, referencing a debt limit bill McCarthy negotiated with President Biden that the group also despised. Were gonna use our votes to defund as many things as we can. The problem is that thats not how the system works. And I dont mean the business-as-usual swamp that pols habitually decryIm talking about the Constitution, which these self-proclaimed constitutional conservatives claim to revere. At the risk of regurgitating basic civics, the point of divided power and checks and balances is to prevent any one actor or faction from gaining unchecked power. The system works when everyone involved understands the need to compromise to get things done, by which I mean: govern. Unfortunately, compromise long ago became a dirty word on the righta sign of personal weakness, if not venal corruption. When NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist asked Americans in December whether they prefer compromise or principled stands, a supermajority (74 percent) favored compromise, but Republicans (66 percent) lagged well behind independents (78 percent) and Democrats (82 percent). Similarly, 58 percent of Democrats told Gallup in January that they want Biden to work to compromise with Republicans, even if it disappoints some of his voters. Only 34 percent of Republicans said the same of working with Biden, with nearly twice as many, 64 percent, saying that the GOP ought to stand up to the presidenteven, as the poll put it, if doing so makes it harder to address critical problems. This is more than an academic problem. Dramatic pronouncements about fighting and winning might play well on Fox News and Newsmax, but condemning compromise as weakness and failure creates an atmosphere where nothing can possibly get done and the people involved have delusional expectations about what qualifies as a win. (And lets take a moment to contemplate the conservative notion of winning: They want to gut education funding, to use one example, aiming to cut Title I funding by a whopping 80 percent.) It also feeds and is nourished by the GOPs authoritarian turn. Is it any surprise that Donald Trumpthe man who took us from I alone can fix it to storming the Capitol to overturn his election lossis cheering on the hard rights maximalist approach? UNLESS YOU GET EVERYTHING, SHUT IT DOWN! he wrote on his social media platform over the weekend, torching the man he used to imperiously refer to as my Kevin. As for the feckless McCarthy, he has, ironically, started to fight back against his detractors, daring them to try to remove him. I dont understand why anybody votes against bringing the idea and having the debate, he said last week. This is a whole new concept of individuals that just want to burn the whole place down. That doesnt work. It calls to mind one other DC Comics reference, from The Dark Knight. Some men arent looking for anything logical, Michael Caines Alfred memorably tells Bruce Wayne. They cant be bought, bullied, reasoned, or negotiated with. Some men just want to watch the world burn. Unhappily for us, Kevin McCarthy is neither Bruce Wayne nor Batmanhes as likely as not to help these jokers burn everything down if itll help him hold onto his gavel for another day. A Cincinnati police officer is undergoing a "painful" preventative rabies treatment after she was bitten by a dog, the police union said. A dog was killed by Cincinnati police in Hartwell Thursday morning after it attacked two people and an officer, officials said. Officers were dispatched around 8:40 a.m. to the 8000 block of Vine Street for a report of a person bitten by a dog running loose, Lt. Jonathan Cunningham said in a statement. Before police were able to arrive at the scene, a second person reported that they were bitten by the same dog. Police attempted to isolate the animal from the public, Cunningham said, and it charged at an officer, latched onto their leg and bit them. The officer fired two rounds at the dog, killing it. The officer was taken to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center for treatment of non-life-threatening bite injuries, Cunningham said. Another person was also taken to the hospital with similar wounds and a third bite victim self-treated their injuries. The Enquirer has requested police records related to the incident. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Dog shot, killed in Hartwell after attacking CPD officer and others It probably says enough about the current political moment that if you want to learn how people really feel about a proposed piece of legislation, youll end up watching a lot of monologues on your tiny phone screen delivered while greenscreened against screenshots of news stories. Gen Z, come here, began one video posted this summer by a TikTok creator with the username omarsbigsister. Because this organization that claims to represent you is heading to DC. The creator made their video, which has since racked up more than 500,000 views, in July, just as it looked like the Kids Online Safety Act, or KOSA, was going to move through Congress with bipartisan support. KOSAs supporters did include groups claiming to represent Gen Z; like the others pushing the bill, they said their opposition was the tech companies who profited from endangering young people with their products. But if you were to go online, you could easily find young people who opposed the bill and were using those platforms to speak back. It was an effective strategy to engage an audience: All of you following my channel now? This bill will hurt all of us. For petitions to sign, graphics to share, and info on how to call your congressional representatives, link in bio. And their video ended up shared on the website of one of the groups opposing the bill, Fight for the Future. Bills like KOSA are a subtle twist in how child safety legislation is promoted now. The fear animating these bills goes back to the early days of the web itself: that there was a unique kind of danger, usually sexual, lurking online, searching for children, away from parents watchful gaze. Those were the dial-up days. There is so much more internet now for those people to fear, seemingly designed to make them feel bad about themselves. KOSA, its supporters will tell you, is just asking tech companies to take responsibility for their products; to be held to a duty of care. But thats exactly the problem for KOSAs supporters: It appeals to the Big Tech titans they say are endangering children to instead protect them. And the narrative KOSAs boosters have adopted to push the bill makes it all too easy to sidestep both the unmet needs of young people and the considerable power of those companies. To most advocates of these internet bills, their opponent is Big Tech, companies who stand to profit from business as usual and operate with impunity. Big Tech companies and their army of lobbyists are already coming out in force against this proposal out of fear that it could impact their bottom line, the director of the Council for Responsible Social Media argued in a recent op-ed at The Hill in support of KOSA. With their deep pockets and K Street offices, weve allowed these companies to amass exorbitant profits off of our children with little to no oversight. In such arguments, young people who disagree with online safety bills promoters do not figure in, except maybe as presumed beneficiaries. Sometimes, supporters will add, its not tech companies themselves but groups who are paid to push their interests. It removes the Big Tech companies one degree at least, the head of the Tech Transparency Project, or TTP, told The Washington Post in May, so that tech companies could absolve themselves from looking like theyre pushing this issue. Who wants to seem like they are against child safety? TTP has also stated that one of Big Techs tactics is hiding its agenda behind more sympathetic figures, in a report on efforts to stall KOSA-like legislation at the state and federal level; these figures, it said, then push the industrys agenda while making it seem as though Big Techs positionsaimed at protecting the industrys bottom linehave grassroots support. But when groups who claim to represent the interests of young people in the face of tech behemoths dont also recognize the bills they are lobbying for have genuine opponents outside Big Tech, it gives the appearance that anyone arguing against these bills is actually working in favor of tech companies. This is only more complicated by the fact that holding Big Tech accountable is now, for better and for worse, a demand shared by much of the political spectrum. Even the purported small-government, pro-corporation Republicans frame their support for such bills as striking a blow against the tech giants. This narrative is part of the GOPs larger political strategy to reimagine these platforms as anti-MAGA, pro-woke censors eager to deplatform and shadowban conservatives. Its worth pausing right here. Deplatforming and shadowbanning are not inventions of aggrieved right-wing influencers. Roll the clock back just a few years, and you would be most likely to find political activism against deplatforming and shadowbanning coming from sex workers, from queer and trans communities, from sex educatorsinternet users that conservatives typically would not mind being marginalized. This isnt to say that Pizzagate promoter Jack Posobiec stands with progressives against online censorship now; far from it. Rather, its a sign that those on the right have seized on tech platforms power to restrain speech to position themselves as the champions of free speech. This kind of role reversal is at the heart of Naomi Kleins new book, Doppelganger, in which she traces the political transformation of the other Naomi she is often confused with online, the conspiracy theorypeddling Naomi Wolf. Klein observes that though Wolfs pandemic-inspired fever dreams about techof a population literally held in slavery forever by vaccine passport appshave no truth to them, to plenty of people, they felt true. We are indeed living through a revolution in surveillance tech, and state and corporate actors have indeed seized outrageous powers to monitor us, often in collaboration and coordination with one another, Klein writes. The conspiracy Wolfs world sees behind technology, Klein goes on to argue, is just capitalismand in her view, the left has not fought Big Tech power nearly hard enough. When the left does not raise the alarm, Klein argues, Big Tech becomes the terrain of the Bannonite political right, which points to a dangerous ceding of ideological territory. This is why it feels so perverse to see legislators and advocates who consider themselves liberal out there pushing these internet bills, positioning their opposition as Big Tech. They risk lumping in with tech industry groups the arguments their opponents are actually making, which are also against unchecked corporate tech power and in favor of empowering internet users over internet companies. And they are doing so as they make common cause with those on the right who see these bills as part of their own project of protecting children. As KOSAs lead sponsor, Senator Marsha Blackburn, has admitted quite openly, protecting children in this sense means preventing young people from going online and learning that trans people exist. This is where children are being indoctrinated and all of a sudden this comes to them, Blackburn said in a recently published Family Policy Alliance video. After publication, Senator Blackburns office contacted The New Republic and asked us to include in our story a September 3 post on X from Jamie Susskind, legislative director for Senator Blackburn. The post was itself a response to a post promoting a Los Angeles Blade story about KOSA, including with the link the text, A bill with bipartisan backing is quietly making its way through Congress, and it could pose a significant threat to LGBTQ+ content online. The legislative directors post on X reads: This is false. These are two separate issues being taken out of context. KOSA will not nor was it designed to target or censor any individual or community. The text the legislative director is responding to is not incorrect: KOSA does have bipartisan support, and it could pose a threat to LGBTQ-related content online, if tech platforms believe they must remove such content in order to comply with KOSA, as would be consistent with their enforcement of similar bills in the recent pastsuch as SESTA/FOSTA, a bill that Senator Blackburn supported. Concerns over the same discovery mechanisms that disinformation researchers have used to describe how people were drawn into QAnon are here repurposed to promote KOSA perfectly. When these bills are supported by anti-trans politiciansand they do end up harming trans kidsthat is not an unintended consequence. What looks to some, I am sure, like a rare form of bipartisan agreement to rein in Big Tech is also a method of scrambling actual accountability for tech platforms with a broad, dangerous save the children crusade. It should not be so difficult, in 2023, to insist that there is a way to confront Big Tech that is bigger than this, less compromising than this. It cant all be left to Gen Z, either, though they are breaking through. In a statement from Florida Democratic Representative Maxwell Frost, posted two weeks after omarsbigsisters TikTok, he said bills like KOSA jeopardize kids privacy through increased data collection and promote inappropriate parental surveillance which can keep children experiencing domestic abuse from seeking help. Representative Frost noted that his states governor, Ron DeSantis, had already expressed his intention to use bills like KOSA to censor LGBTQ content. Big Tech is hurting our kids, the parents of more than 100 trans and gender-expansive kids said in an open letter published this July. KOSA would hurt them even more. KOSAs supporters are not making an enemy of Big Techthey are denying the scope of Big Techs opposition. This article has been updated. Chris Christie called out Donald Trump for skipping the second GOP presidential debate, saying he was afraid to face his rivals. The former New Jersey governor addressed Mr Trump directly. "Donald, I know you're watching. You can't help yourself" he said, pointing down the camera. "You're ducking these things...You keep doing that, no one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore, we're going to call you Donald Duck". The former president was not far from the minds of the Republican candidates with both Mr Christie and Mr DeSantis going after Mr Trump in his absence. Don't let yourself be disenfranchised from NH presidential primary Sept. 26 To the Editor: Joe Biden and Donald Trump are leading their respective parties in the race to be nominated for the Presidency in 2024. However, national polling indicates that a significant portion of the American voting population would prefer a matchup between some other combination of candidates next fall. In addition, the Democratic Party has (thus far) made the decision that it will not recognize the legitimacy of votes cast in the New Hampshire primary in January, because the date of the primary, which is set in law, will not follow guidelines set by the national Democratic party. Democratic voters on the seacoast should be aware that these decisions will effectively disenfranchise them in the coming primary election. As Americans, we have a constitutional right to participate in the voting process, and in New Hampshire, we take that right seriously. Readers who are used to voting in Democratic primaries and wish to maintain a voice in the nomination process should be aware that they may legally change their party affiliation up until October 6, 2023, by going to the city or town clerk's office in person and completing the requisite form. By electing "independent" status, a voter may participate in any primary they may choose on primary election day this coming January. Regardless of party registration, I encourage all prospective voters to ensure that their voter registration is in order, and to stop by city or town hall if they have any doubts. We are all fortunate to have a voice in the selection of our leaders; make sure your voice is heard this year! Brian Porter Portsmouth Letter writer: Regardless of party registration, I encourage all prospective voters to ensure that their voter registration is in order, and to stop by city or town hall if they have any doubts Republicans will get no applause for a government shutdown Sept. 24 To the Editor: Republicans fail to understand how elections in a democracy work. Simple things like the right to vote, majority rule, and peaceful transfer of power seem beyond their comprehension. Perhaps, they need to take a high school civics course or the exam required of immigrants for citizenship. When Republican candidates somehow fool enough people to get elected, their problem is governing. The (mis)leading man and his fellow actors in the House apparently think they are in a TV drama with shouted dialog and a plot that keeps us in suspense, rather than having the job of governing. They will get no applause when the government shuts down. They could learn something from the most effective chief executive in their lifetimes. Joe Biden has overseen the passage of more crucial domestic legislation in his first three years than most presidents in two terms. He has been a superb leader and negotiator abroad, revitalizing NATO and restoring the worlds respect for America. Just as important, Biden represents the traditions and values of our country simply by being a decent human being. To restore our democracy, voters of both parties would do well, to evaluate candidates with some basic questions about intellect, ethics, honesty and decency. Cynthia Muse Rye Republicans cowering before Trump endanger our nation Sept. 26 To the Editor: In the past week meaning, just this week alone the leading GOP candidate for the presidency has vowed to investigate and if necessary remove Comcast and its affiliated companies NBC and MSNBC from the airwaves, and to investigate MSNBC for treason. He has suggested that the outgoing Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff should be executed for meeting, at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, his counterpart in the Peoples Republic of China. And he has relentlessly spread a message that might be his lasting contribution to our troubled society: that violence is the natural extension of political disagreement. The important issue is less Trumps rhetoric and unhinged social media posts, or even his felony indictments and liability for sexual assault and fraud. The crucial issue that no one should miss is the moral vacuity and cowardice of the GOP as a whole. GOP Congressman Paul Gosar simply echoed the thoughts about General Milley, adding a dose of homophobia as icing to Trumps vitriolic cake, saying in his newsletter to constituents, In a better society, quislings like the strange sodomy-promoting General Milley would be hung. Not a single candidate for the GOP presidential nomination took Trump to task for slandering the nations highest ranking member of the armed forces, a person whose service to the country began in ROTC at Princeton and included service in the 82nd Airborne Division, the 5th Special Forces Group, 7th and 2nd Infantry Divisions, and as Commanding General of US Army Forces Command at Fort Bragg, and Army Chief of Staff. Closer to home, New Hampshire gubernatorial candidate Kelly Ayotte says she will vote for Trump if he is the GOP nominee. Readers may recall that Ayotte in 2016 suggested that Trump was a role model, and several days later said she misspoke and would not vote for him in the 2016 election. But now with four years of Trump Administration chaos, legions of former staff and cabinet members laying bare the madness of King Trump, promises to punish political enemies and critical media companies, and regular rhetoric aimed at giving license to violence in plain view she says that she will vote for him if he stands again for the presidency. This strained loyalty to party over country has its roots not in shared conviction, but in cowardice, and a cloying lust for office that only seems available if one placates Trump and his devoted cult. We'd like to think decency and character have a seat, however rickety, at the table of political office. But that sliver of character and decency that we are looking for is sorry trumped by the institutional cowardice of a party that has shown it can no longer legislate and govern, and can no longer lead. Christopher Cole Portsmouth State Rep. Laurie Sanborn should resign Sept. 25 To the Editor: Like most voters, I expect our elected officials to be good public servants, serving the needs of their constituents not enriching themselves at our expense. So, like many others, I was outraged to learn that our very own State Representative, Laurie Sanborn, is under criminal investigation for COVID-19 relief fraud. She and her husband are accused of illegally taking (aka stealing) over $844,000 in COVID-19 relief aid, spending some of it on luxury cars for themselves. But the scandal goes deeper. Together with her husband, Mrs. Sanborn co-owns a gambling casino. Just months ago, the Republican speaker of the NH House appointed Sanborn as chair of a legislative commission charged with studying the impact of gaming laws. Clearly the Sanborns stand to benefit personally. Once news of the investigation broke, Sanborn stepped down as chair. Speaker Packard described her resignation as appropriate. Given the inherent conflict of interest, there was nothing appropriate about Packard appointing her in the first place. Although Sanborn has relinquished the chairmanship, she remains a member of the Charitable Gaming Commission. Further, Sanborn still has significant oversight of New Hampshire casinos in her role as chair of the House of Ways and Means Committee. I have to ask, is Rep. Sanborn serving the needs or her constituents, or enriching herself at our expense? I can only conclude that it is time for Laurie Sanborn to resign as State Representative and retire from any active career in public service. We, her constituents, deserve better. Sue Holstein Bedford This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Don't be disenfranchised from NH presidential primary: Letters The dorms at Fresno State were ordered to be evacuated Thursday as a threat was under investigation, according to a social media post by the school, but police said it is likely a hoax. The school said about noon on X, formerly known as Twitter, the dorms and dining hall were to be evacuated and a subsequent message told students to gather at the Student Recreation Center. Fresno State Police and Fresno Police are still investigating the threat, a tweet said. The evacuation point has been moved to the Student Rec Center. The social media posts were not specific about the nature of the threat. The threat came by email, Fresno police Lt. Bill Dooley said. BDALERT: Police are investigating a threat at the dorms. The dorms and dining hall are being evacuated to P27. Avoid the area, stand by for more information. pic.twitter.com/ND5kgJvTl5 Fresno State (@Fresno_State) September 28, 2023 Police were treating the threat as if it was real as a precaution, but Dooley said it came from an obscure email and was not unlike hoaxes seen at school campuses throughout the city. The threat was also sent to other college campuses and named specific buildings that had bombs, he said. It also included at least two names of potential victims. Dooley said investigators were working on determining the origin of the email. Updates are posted at fresnostate.edu/alert Scott Sams didn't just deal drugs, authorities say, but concocted deadly "hot shots" of methamphetamine, booze and Alka-Seltzer, convinced customers to party with him, and then passed out his concoction. The fizz from the seltzer tablets would intensify the high, prosecutors said, adding that Sams also made shots which could be injected by a needle. Sams' drugs would cost two people their lives a single mother and a father of four and eventually his freedom. The FBI says this photo of methemphetamine was taken by a Downriver man who gave customers lethal "hot shots" of meth and cost two people their lives. He was sentenced to 20 years in prison on Sept. 27, 2023. U.S. District Judge Laurie Michelson sentenced Sams, 54, of Southgate, to 20 years in prison Wednesday for running a drug ring that prosecutors said preyed on vulnerable women, often commercial sex workers. Perhaps most egregious, prosecutors argued, was what Sams did after two of his victims overdosed: He ran and left them to die alone. 'Sams' actions shock the conscience' For Assistant U.S. Attorney Margaret Smith, it's what Sams did after his victims overdosed that was especially egregious. Sams actions shock the conscience. He had a choice. He chose to run and hide. Worse, he did not stop after he knew he killed someone, Smith argued in her sentencing memo. According to court documents, here's how Sams worked: He lured women in by getting them to hotel rooms to party. Once there, he concocted his "hot shots" either putting the solution into a syringe, or mixing it with booze. With the drink version, he would drop in an Alka-Seltzer to add carbonation so it blows up once consumed and the high from the drugs is intensified. "Sometimes, he suggests they use the drug through their anus to intensify the high, Smith wrote in court documents. First victim was struggling single mom Sams, who previously pleaded guilty to distributing meth that killed two people, landed on the federal government's radar two years ago, when the FBI caught word that he was distributing meth in the Downriver area. An investigation followed. According to court documents, here's what the FBI uncovered: Sams' first victim was a struggling, 28-year-old single mother who met Sams in May 2021 at the Motor Lodge in Allen Park, where surveillance images show the two entering a room. Several others did as well, though everyone was seen leaving at some point except Sams and the 28-year-old mom. At some point, Sams left the motel room with his bags after ordering a female friend to come to the hotel to clean up. The woman obliged, and called 911 to report the victim. When police found her, she was naked, alone, on top of an unmade bed in the hotel room. Not only did Sams give (her) a lethal dose of methamphetamine, but he deserted her. He left her there to die alone, the prosecutor wrote in her memo. A convicted Downriver drug dealer photographs a packet of methemphetamine using his cellphone. He was convicted of concocting lethal meth shots that cost two people their lives. This photo was seized by the FBI during its investigation. Second deadly party 'Again Sams ran' The next month, Sams continued on with his party lifestyle at a womans home in Farmington Hills, where a man identified only as Z.M. arrived. The father of four kids ingested some of Sams meth and overdosed. Again, Sams ran and hid. Instead of helping, and possibly saving this mans life, Sams took off, leaving (the man) alone, unclothed, and dead on the floor, the prosecutor wrote. In January 2022, Sams was indicted on a drug conspiracy charge, and two counts of delivering meth resulting in death or serious bodily harm. He later cut a deal and pleaded guilty to distributing meth that resulted in the deaths of two victims. According to court records, Sams ran his drug scheme while out on probation from a 2020 gun conviction. Prior to that, he was arrested twice for domestic violence when he was 29 and 40. Both cases were dismissed, one after he completed a term of supervision. Defense: Sams had 'crippling' meth addiction In court documents, Sams' lawyer portrayed his client as a hardworking crane operator of 26 years who developed a "crippling methamphetamine addiction" after watching a co-worker fall to his death from a crane they were working on. "Mr. Sams descended into a nihilistic lifestyle of methamphetamine use, distribution, and 'partying,' federal defender James Gerometta wrote in a sentencing memo. "This event shook him." So much so, the lawyer noted, that Sams a married father of four also destroyed his family. 'This is a terrible case' "At age 49, Mr. Sams embraced the methamphetamine party/sex culture. His drug use became worse when he was laid off during the pandemic," Gerometta wrote, noting his client was arrested eight times in three years for drug offenses. "Unsurprisingly, his behavior led to his divorce in 2020." And worse: It cost two people their lives. "This is a terrible case. While Mr. Sams was lost in the haze of methamphetamine addiction and did not intend to harm anyone, his repeated behavior caused the death of two people with families who loved them and will mourn their loss," Gerometta wrote. "His behavior has destroyed the lives of the two victims and his own." Meanwhile, the federal government warns it is on the lookout for drug dealers like Sams who are wreaking havoc on communities. My office will use every resource available to combat drug dealers who push controlled substances into our communities with indifference to the tragedy it inflicts," U.S. Attorney Dawn Ison stated after Sams' sentencing. "We will not hesitate to seek stiff penalties to keep this community safe. Added Michigan's FBI chief Cheyvoryea Gibson: We are hopeful this sentencing brings a sense of justice to the victims families, whose loved ones were recklessly endangered by the defendant. The FBI Detroit Field Office asks that anyone who believes they may have been a victim oflethal meth concoctions to call 800-CALLFBI (800-225-5324) or submit tips online to http://tips.fbi.gov. Contact Tresa Baldas: tbaldas@freepress.com This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Downriver drug dealer Scott Sams sentenced to 20 years A Wichita County Jury on Thursday sentenced Jasinto Jimenez to 45 years in prison for the death of Andres Diaz in July 2022. Jasinto Jimenez is led away in cuffs to begin serving a 45 year prison sentence for Wichita County's first fentanyl-related murder conviction. The sentence came one day after the same jury convicted Jimenez of murder for providing the fentanyl pill that killed Diaz. Fentanyl is an opioid that's 1,000 times more powerful than morphine and is illegally counterfeited and sold as Percocet. A single pill can result in death. The murder conviction and sentence are the first in Wichita County for someone accused of selling fentanyl that causes the death of another person. Wichita County District Attorney John Gillespie said it may be the first in Texas. "We are sick and tired of this in Wichita County," Gillespie said of the 15 local deaths blamed on the potent narcotic. "Think twice before you deal this poison to kids, to high school students, to college students in Wichita County." Gillespie said law enforcement officers in the city and county have seen a significant drop in fentanyl sales since prosecutors began leveling murder charges against dealers. "We promised you a year-and-a-half ago that if you were selling fentanyl, we were coming after you," said Dobie Kosub, first assistant district attorney who is leading the prosecution of suspected fentanyl dealers. "They (jurors) said with this 45 year sentence they are fed up with this and they are not willing to tolerate it. So knock it off." During the trial it was revealed Diaz and a companion, Leigha Smith, purchased two fentanyl pills and some marijuana from Jimenez. Smith said she swallowed her pill, but Diaz crushed his, rolled up a dollar bill, and snorted the drug through it. Diaz lost consciousness in Smith's car and several hours later Smith drove him to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. Defense attorney Michael Valverde told jurors in his closing arguments that Jimenez's life had spiraled out of control after he began using drugs, but said he had never committed a violent act. Valverde encouraged jurors to return a sentence of 25 years. But Assistant District Attorney Matt Shelton told jurors they could make a positive change in Wichita County by sending a message: "Take a stand and say we're done. No more fentanyl." He urged jurors to deliver a life sentence. The jury had the option of sentencing Jimenez from five to 99 years or life in prison. Jimenez, 23, could become eligible for parole in about 22 years. Diaz's relatives read victim impact statements after Jimenez was sentenced. "I wouldn't wish this on his family -- any family," his sister said. "My son wasn't perfect, but he was a person who cared for everyone," his mother said through tears. Smith was also indicted for murder in the Diaz case, but that indictment was dropped in exchange for a manslaughter indictment. She remains in jail awaiting her trial. Wichitan Jakob Blankenship awaits trial for murder in another fentanyl-related death. This article originally appeared on Wichita Falls Times Record News: Drug dealer gets 45-year sentence in county's first fentanyl murder trial A Franklin County Latino leader who helped shape medical and educational access for migrant communities across Eastern Washington has died. Santiago Silva Iniguez, 85, died Sept. 20 in Las Vegas. He was a longtime Franklin County and Wenatchee resident who worked as a tireless advocate for migrant workers. Iniguezs son Jose will pay tribute to his father with a song at Saturdays Celebracion Para Colima! at the Franklin County Courthouse, according to a news release from Franklin County Administrator Mike Gonzalez. Gonzalez also is one of 11 commissioners on the Washington State Commission on Hispanic Affairs. The event will celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Mexican state of Colima, where about 20% of Pasco residents are from or have ties. Celebracion Para Colima flyer He left an incredible legacy for our family and the community. Im so grateful I was raised by a man with his character. I wouldnt be where I am without him, said his son Jose, an award-winning tenor, and longtime Pasco resident. Iniguez was a devout Catholic and leaves behind his wife Guadalupe Rodriguez and 11 children and 16 grandchildren. He was born in San Marcos, Michoacan, Mexico, and moved to the United States in the mid-1960s as a migrant farm worker and to build a brighter future for his family as part of the Bracero Program, according to a news release. The Bracero Program was a diplomatic agreement between the U.S. and Mexico that provided protections and guarantees for migrant workers, including putting a portion of their wages into savings for their family. Voice for Latinos He eventually settled in Connell in north Franklin County and became a voice for the Latino community, advocating for equal access to education for both parents and students. Iniguez served as the president of the Migrant Parent Advisory Council (PAC) and as a state PAC member, representing his community and the Latino voice at parent leadership conferences across Washington. In 1985, he moved to Mattawa and identified a pressing need within the Latino farmworker community. He worked in collaboration with local officials and outside agencies to establish the Mattawa Community Medical Clinic. Gonzalez said that Iniguez took immense pride in becoming a U.S. citizen and exercising the right to vote. He continued advocating for parents and students in Mattawa until relocating to Las Vegas in 1998. He would move back to Washington in 2005, living in Wenatchee until 2022 where he was recognized for his outstanding service to the community by the Community For the Advancement of Family Education. Higher education He instilled the importance of education in his own children as well. All 11 earned bachelors degree and eight have post graduate degrees. The impact that Santiago made was incredible. His contributions to education, the Eastern Washington Latino Community and his family will be felt for generations to come. Its clear the impact hes had on his children, as they are pillars of the community, Gonzalez said. Iniguez was known for saying, They can take all your material possessions away but they can never take away your education. That is yours forever In tribute to his unwavering commitment to education, the Iniguez Family Endowment has been established at Eastern Washington University, Central Washington University, Columbia Basin College and Wenatchee Valley College. Anyone wishing to donate can contribute to the Wenatchee Valley College Foundation in his honor. A viewing is planned 4-8 p.m. Friday, with a Rosary at 6 p.m. at Jones & Jones-Betts Funeral Home, 302 9th St. in Wenatchee. Mass will be at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic, 625 S. Elliott Ave. in Wenatchee. Eddy County received $2,792 in cannabis excise tax money, monies that the Board of Commissioners opted to place in a fund as it grappled with how to spend it. Commissioners Sept. 5 approved the establishment of a fund as required by the New Mexico Department Finance and Administration (NMDFA). This allows the state of New Mexico to track how the excise tax funds are spent, said Jessica Stygar, Eddy County interim finance director. These monies cannot be held in the same fund as gross receipt taxes, officials said. Stygar said as of now, there are no plans for how the funds will be spent "as it was never expected to receive a significant amount," though state and federal rules and guidelines recommend funding governmental services. Eddy County Manager Roberta Gonzales said the money received in August was based on June cannabis sales. Data from the Cannabis Control Division indicates there was just over $1 million in sales in June in Carlsbad of adult-use cannabis. Gonzales said the excise taxes are 12 percent of all adult-use retail sales. More: Eddy County denies variance for cannabis retail shops near Artesia Pecos Valley Production's Artesia retail outlet on Sept. 26, 2023. Eddy County followed a state law creating a cannabis regulation fund based on state rules created during the 2021 Cannabis Regulation Act. Eddy County cannabis August sales over $27 million Charlie Moore, spokesperson for the New Mexico Department of Taxation and Revenue, said sales distributions from August will be distributed in October. Cannabis distributions work similarly to GRT sales from one month are reported by the 25th of the following month and then distributions happen another month after that, he said. There were a total of 376,000 cannabis - medical and adult-use- in Carlsbad, according to the New Mexico Cannabis Control Division in August. Those sales generated $21 million in Carlsbad, the same data showed. Combined sales in Artesia were $2.5 million with 47,000 total transactions. Across New Mexico combined adult use and medical cannabis sales was $48.2 million during August with one million total transactions, according to the Cannabis Control Division data. Closer look at the Cannabis Regulation Act Fund Andrea Brown, spokesperson for the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department (NMRLD), said the cannabis regulation fund was created in 2021 when the New Mexico Legislature passed the Cannabis Regulation Act. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signed the Cannabis Regulation Act on April 12, 2021. The fund was created in the state treasury and consists of appropriations, gifts, grants, donations and fees collected by the department as part of the Cannabis Regulation Act and the medical cannabis program. More: Cannabis regulations for unincorporated areas of Eddy County passes County Commission Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of a fiscal year shall revert to the general fund, noted the law. Money in the fund allows the New Mexico Legislature to fund state agencies to carry out the provisions set up by Cannabis Regulation Act and the Lynn and Erin Compassionate Use Act, according to the statute. June 23, 2023; Columbus, Oh., USA; Cannabis plants are seen in the flowering phase, which can take several weeks, at PharmaCann, Inc.'s cultivation and processing facility at Buckeye Lake.The cannabis industry opposes Senate Bill 9, which would revamp the state's medical program, saying there is an oversupply of cannabis in Ohio for the medical marijuana program. 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: Here's what we know about the cannabis funds sent to Eddy County Lucy Morgan knew, better than most, how deceptive appearances can be. How the humdrum facade of a South Florida mortgage company could be a front for massive fraud and corruption. How a seemingly casual dinner at a Tallahassee restaurant could signal a seismic shift in the states political landscape. How the public persona of a respected lawman could cloak a vicious predator from view. Lucy Morgan, Pulitzer-winning force of Florida journalism, dies at 82 She devoted her adult life to stripping away those illusions, with nary a warning to those who mistakenly took Morgan herself at face value. Early in her career, when women were rare in journalisms ranks and mostly confined to society pages and arts news, she fearlessly tackled stories that many of her male colleagues passed by and stuck with them even when she was attacked or threatened. Decades later, after shed amassed a deserved reputation as a giant of Florida journalism and even announced her retirement, she could still beguile public officials and savvy businessmen into spilling their guts with a wide smile and a well-timed joke and then dismantle their lies with dogged determination. Along the way, she befriended governors and scoundrels; claimed every journalism prize worth winning including a Pulitzer; and mentored dozens of young reporters who followed in her footsteps at some of the nations most well-known publications. Philadelphia Inquirer editor Charlotte Sutton recalled eating dinner with Morgan at a Tallahassee restaurant. Morgan spotted people she recognized, went to talk with them and came back with another scoop: Lawton Chiles was planning a run for Florida governor. And now she is gone. Morgan, who spent most of her career at the Tampa Bay Times, died last week at the age of 82. She had the total respect of her fellow journalists for sure, but I think she had the respect of the politicians that she interacted with, former Gov. Jeb Bush told Tallahassee radio station WFSU. Because they knew that she had incredible tenacity and high integrity and thats it she was fierce. If you got into her line of sight, her line of fire, it wouldnt be a pretty ending. Bush speaks from experience. More than once, hed see her in one of his press conferences with a pile of innocuous-looking knitting on her lap and then be pierced by one sharply worded needle of a question. Yet he counts her as a friend. Thats how it was with Morgan; many of the politicians she deflated on a regular basis still held her in high esteem. A few, of course, did not. Among them: Two sheriffs, one in Pasco County who became the target of her 1995 Pulitzer Prize winning investigation into widespread corruption and another who ended up in federal prison after Morgan investigated rumors he was forcing employees and jail inmates into sexual favors. A North Carolina businessman whose activity, in 2007, seemed suspicious to Morgan. Even though she was on her first attempt at retirement, she couldnt help but follow up. In 2014, he and his associates were sentenced to long prison terms after being convicted of nearly $50 million in mortgage fraud. The judges and politicians caught lavishing tens of millions of dollars on a judicial Taj Mahal of an appellate courthouse in Tallahassee And so many more. But it is a far greater tribute that many of the politicians shed skewered on a regular basis spoke with genuine affection and a sense of loss after hearing of her death. Earlier this year, after the death of former Daytona Beach lawmaker Sam Bell, Morgan wrote a column for the Phoenix lamenting that Florida was losing its lions. Bush continued that theme this week, dubbing her a lioness whose legacy would live on. Its right and fitting that she will be publicly mourned Friday in one of her favorite hunting grounds, the floor of the Florida House. But her dedication should also be remembered in a renewed quest for decency, transparency and honesty at all levels of government. It would be the most fitting legacy for a woman whose boundless curiosity and passion for justice made this state a better place for half a century. The Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board consists of Opinion Editor Krys Fluker, Editor-in-Chief Julie Anderson and Viewpoints Editor Jay Reddick. Contact us at insight@orlandosentinel.com The Education Department is urging colleges to ramp up their diversity efforts in the wake of a June Supreme Court ruling to restrict the use of race-based admission practices at universities. The Education Department issued a report Thursday outlining ways higher education institutions can promote more diversity in their admission practices, including boosting scholarships and minority recruiting. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona called on local leaders to break down barriers for underserved students and reimagine pathways into higher education. Our future is brighter when we prepare students of all backgrounds to lead our multiracial democracy together, Cardona added. The Supreme Court invalidated Harvards and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hills admissions practices by ruling they did not comply with the 14th Amendments guarantee of equal protection. The ruling severely restricted the affirmative action practices used at many higher education institutions to select students from their applicant pools. While the court ruled that colleges cannot directly use race when considering an application, it noted institutions could consider an applicants discussion of how race affected the applicants life if it was tied to the quality of character or unique ability. The report includes resources for targeted recruitment, outreach, and pathway programs in schools, including K12 schools, community colleges, historically Black colleges and universities. It also urged higher education institutions take meaningful consideration in admissions to the adversity students have faced, including personal experiences of hardship and discrimination, including racial discrimination. Diverse college campuses can provide experiences that increase critical thinking, civic engagement, leadership skills, and cross-racial interaction for all students, and they allow students from all backgrounds the chance to pursue and achieve the benefits of postsecondary education, such as economic and social mobility, according to the announcement. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. FILE PHOTO: Eli Lilly logo is shown on one of their offices in San Diego By Dan Levine and Marisa Taylor (Reuters) - Eli Lilly and Co and a former employee agreed to settle a lawsuit in which the worker claimed she was terminated after pointing out poor manufacturing practices and data falsification involving one of its blockbuster diabetes drugs, according to court filings. The former human resources officer, Amrit Mula, contended in the lawsuit that she repeatedly urged leaders at a New Jersey plant to remedy problems involving several biologic drugs, including Type 2 diabetes medicine Trulicity. Lilly called Mula a non-scientist whose allegations were "simply wrong," according to court filings. Both sides reached a tentative agreement this year and were working to finalize the settlement, according to an August court filing. A judge set a Wednesday deadline to inform the court whether they would resume litigating, and said that if they did not, the case would be dismissed. Neither side made additional court filings. A Lilly spokesperson said the resolution "in no way admits any wrongdoing," and did not comment on details of the settlement. An attorney for Mula did not respond to an inquiry. The New Jersey facility has been under scrutiny by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration since 2019 when inspectors found quality control data had been deleted and not appropriately audited, Reuters has reported. The plant has also produced several cancer medications and a COVID-19 therapy. Inspectors later returned and found more problems, including that batches of drugs had been discarded because of manufacturing mistakes and quality control problems were not being properly investigated by the company to prevent recurrence. Lilly has said it was working collaboratively with the FDA to address the agency's concerns. Separately, the U.S. Department of Justice in 2021 launched a criminal investigation following a Reuters story that detailed some of Mula's allegations. No charges have been filed. A DOJ spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment on the status of the investigation. (Reporting by Dan Levine in San Francisco and Marisa Taylor in Washington; Editing by Jamie Freed) Eliyanna Andam, 15, who was stabbed to death in Croydon, South London The 15-year-old girl who was stabbed to death on her way to school had aspired to become a lawyer, her devastated aunt has said. The first picture of the victim, named locally as Eliyanna Andam, has emerged after she was killed in Croydon, South London on Wednesday. Witnesses claimed an argument broke out between Eliyanna, her friends and pupils from another school as they travelled on the number 60 bus. Screaming The row then spilled out onto the pavement, where the attacker stabbed Eliyanna at around 8.30am. One girl was seen being held back, screaming: Thats my best friend, as she tried to push past the crowds to reach the wounded teenager. Police arrested a 17-year-old boy not far from the scene of the attack around 75 minutes later. Eliyanna's aunt, Marian, described the family's heartbreak over the death - Jeremy Selwyn/SelwynPics Speaking from the family home, half a mile away from where Eliyanna was killed, her aunt told of the familys heartbreak over the death and how she dreamed of being a lawyer. The woman, who gave her name as Marian, told The Mirror: This is a tragedy. It hasnt sunk in yet for my sister. [Eliyanna] wanted to be a lawyer. She went to a private school and had a great future ahead of her. My sister paid for her education. She added: She was a lovely girl, loved gymnastics. She loved doing her hair. We are all devastated by this. We are a big family and we are all here for my sister. Anthony King from My Ends, an organisation that aims to reduce violence, described how the teenager had a bright future ahead of her. Fantastic future He told The Telegraph: She was an absolutely incredible young lady, very articulate, [she] really had a fantastic future ahead of her. Eliyanna was a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift School, a 134-year-old girls school, which charges fees of up to 19,350 a year. A school statement said staff were deeply shocked by the senseless and tragic death of our much-loved and valued friend and pupil. Flowers and tributes have been left at the scene of the stabbing in Croydon, South London - Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Europe Eliyanna is the 16th teenager to be killed in London so far in 2023. Her parents are being comforted by friends and family at their Croydon home and specialist officers were also supporting the grieving couple. The 17-year-old suspect arrested remains in custody. Chief Supt Andy Brittain, the local police chief, said: This is every parents worst nightmare, and I know the officers who responded, along with our emergency services colleagues, are devastated at the victims death. This is an emotion I share, and I know people across Croydon will be feeling the same. The victims family has been informed and our thoughts are with them at what must be an incredibly difficult time. 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. Sen. Elizabeth Warren led some Democratic colleagues in sending letters to four student-loan companies requesting information on the repayment restart. They said they're "deeply worried" the companies are not prepared to help borrowers during this transition. They also said a lack of funding is not a valid excuse for borrowers to be facing bad customer service. Senator Elizabeth Warren is worried that four federal student-loan companies aren't up to the task of transitioning millions of borrowers back into repayment in a few days. On Thursday, Warren led three of her Democratic colleagues Sens. Chris Van Hollen, Ed Markey, and Richard Blumenthal in sending letters to the CEOs of Nelnet, MOHELA, EdFinanical, and Maximus Federal Services requesting information on how they have prepared for repayment leading up to the October restart. The fifth federal loan servicer, Central Research Inc., is the only new servicer that signed a contract with the Education Department and did not receive a letter because their operations are not scheduled to begin until 2024. After Warren and five of her Democratic colleagues asked servicers for details on their repayment preparation in July, the lawmakers' Thursday letter said the servicers' responses left them "deeply worried." The servicers warned of customer service delays due to a lack of funding from Congress House Republicans have proposed cutting funding for Federal Student Aid, which the Education Department has previously warned would pose a challenge to repayment and debt relief operations. While Democrats have called for Congress to fulfill President Joe Biden's request to increase funding for the agency, the four lawmakers on Thursday said a lack of money is not enough of a reason for servicers to deliver poor customer service to borrowers. "We recognize that the Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA) is facing a daunting challengeholding servicers accountable to ensure they are helping millions of federal student loan borrowers resume payments and implementing congressionally mandated reforms to fix the student loan systemon a limited budget," they wrote. But they added that they're "skeptical of [servicers'] claim that insufficient funding is keeping them from fulfilling their most foundational obligation considering that they were paid on average approximately $2 a month per account amounting to billions of dollars, while payments, interest, and collections were suspended during the public health emergency." Additionally, responses to Warren's July letter indicated that at that point, nearly 6 million borrowers still had not created accounts with their new servicers. Nearly 17 million borrowers were transferred to different servicers during the pandemic, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau previously found those transfers have resulted in missing paperwork and issues keeping track of payments. Some servicers also did not have borrowers' proper contact information on file meaning some might not have received any communications leading up to repayment. This information will likely not come as a surprise to borrowers who have been attempting to get help with repayment over the past for months. As the lawmakers noted in their letter, some borrowers have been "waiting three or four hours before connecting with a representative" due to the influx of calls servicers have been receiving, with some borrowers being forced to hang up without receiving any assistance. The lawmakers requested the CEOs provide information on a series of questions by October 11, including the average call time wait for borrowers, how many steps it takes borrowers to navigate the automated call center menu, how many borrowers have complained about errors in their monthly payments, and the percentage of staff that are fully trained to help borrowers with their inquiries. These letters come just days before pandemic relief for federal borrowers comes to an end. After over three years, interest began accruing on balances in the beginning of September, and borrowers' first bills will start becoming due in October. Along with Warren and Democrats, Republican lawmakers have also expressed concerns with servicers' preparedness to handle this unprecedented transition back into repayment. Rep. Virginia Foxx and Sen. Bill Cassidy, top Republicans on the House and Senate education committees, respectively, recently requested the Government Accountability Office investigate the guidance the Education Department has given to servicers regarding repayment. A looming government shutdown if Congress fails to reach a funding agreement by September 30 could also complicate matters. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said during a Monday press briefing that it would further strain Federal Student Aid's ability to assist borrowers over the next month. "A prolonged shutdown lasting more than a few weeks could substantially disrupt the return to repayment effort and long-term servicing support for borrowers," Jean-Pierre said. "So, the Department of Education will do its best to support borrowers as they return to repayment, as we have been saying for the past several months. But an extreme Republican shutdown, if this occurs, could be disruptive." Read the original article on Business Insider Elk Grove City Council has called a snap special meeting for Friday afternoon on lawsuits surrounding the contentious Oak Rose apartment project 67 units of housing planned for the formerly homeless in the citys historic Old Town. The decision just before noon Thursday comes after a standing room-only City Council meeting Wednesday, packed with incensed Old Town residents angered at what they see as the projects potential implications for their neighborhood and at city leaders they said were cowed by the lawsuits and werent fighting on their behalf. One hundred percent of people who showed up here said, Fight. Fight for us and dont give up, said resident Robert Patterson at the Wednesday meeting. One hundred percent will vote you out if you dont fight for this. Councilmembers will meet 2:30 p.m. Friday in closed session at the council chambers, 8400 Laguna Palms Way. The city panel will then reconvene in open session. Elk Grove is defending against two lawsuits one by Oak Roses developers last fall challenging the councils July 2022 rejection of the proposed development that brought heavy criticism from local housing advocates and state housing officials. California Attorney General Rob Bonta brought a second suit in May alleging Elk Grove broke state housing law in denying the project last year and repeatedly flouted Senate Bill 35, the law that compels cities to fast-track affordable housing projects. Councilmembers were to consider approving Oak Rose at the Wednesday meeting after city staffers recommendation earlier this month to greenlight the 67-unit project the citys first permanent housing project for low-income families transitioning from homelessness. The project on 1.23 acres is expected to be built in 2026, Sarah Bontrager, Elk Groves housing and public services manager, said Wednesday. The staffs conclusion: the cost of fighting the developers suit and Bontas May lawsuit was too steep. City attorney Jonathan Hobbs pegged the legal costs at the high six figures, costs that could triple or quadruple if Elk Grove lost in court. But that didnt convince residents at Wednesday evenings meeting. Your job is to fight for us. The money you say youre saving thats our money, said Lloyd Wallace. Lets make the exception for Elk Grove residents. In the end, there was no vote Wednesday on the future of Oak Rose, which would be built at Elk Grove Boulevard and Kent Street on the eastern edge of Old Town. Elk Grove leaders tabled the issue until the councils Oct. 11 meeting. Following the councils decision not to vote on the development, Bontas office released a statement Thursday evening decrying the latest delay. The Elk Grove City Council has been put on notice on multiple occasions that denying approval of the Oak Rose Apartments is unlawful, Bontas statement read, in part. Every single time, they have chosen to ignore those warnings, wasting precious time and public resources in the process. It is profoundly disappointing. Oak Rose developers a no-show at council meeting Residents of Elk Groves Old Town who packed the citys 300-capacity council chambers to standing room Wednesday night vented their anger at what they say is a proposed permanent housing project for the once-unhoused being built near homes, school routes and small businesses could mean for the citys original neighborhoods. The residents also said councilmembers were too willing to roll over to state leaders and out-of-town developers. For more than an hour, longtime residents and business owners one after another pleaded with city leaders to reject staffers recommendations to approve the project. Many told leaders they feared the apartments and its new occupants would bring violent crime and drugs to the citys Old Town, putting the neighborhoods eldest and youngest residents in harms way. This is a terrible idea, said resident Jackie Perez. The Old Town flower shop Perez has owned for a quarter-century sits next door to the proposed site. Try to feel what were feeling, she said. Were scared. California cities are bound by law to lift barriers to fair housing. The Oak Rose site, close to shopping, a transit line and the planned new library next door at Elk Grove Boulevard and Waterman Road, is within a state-designated High Resource Opportunity Area neighborhoods identified as able to support positive economic, educational and health outcomes for low-income families, particularly children. Elk Grove leaders voted in May to fight the lawsuits, but also worked behind the scenes, offering a pair of alternative sites and hundreds of thousands of dollars in financial incentives. Elk Grove also offered to take over the Old Town site as part of a deal, but the sides couldnt reach an agreement. We understand theres a homeless crisis all around California, but why drop this smack-dab in the middle of the community? Brigit Naranjo said before the meeting. Were willing to fight. Just keep fighting for us. Keep fighting for your constituents. Dont be bullied by the state. This is an item we want you to fight. The anger extended to the council dais, not the least after the projects developers failed to show to the Wednesday meeting, a decision Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen called disrespectful. As Oak Rose has not requested and is not the applicant for this voluntary reconsideration, the Oak Rose development team has not been invited to participate in, nor do we intend to appear at, the September 27, 2023 meeting, the developers attorneys wrote in a Monday letter to Elk Grove officials, adding, we respectfully request that the City avoid creating new legal disputes through the adoption of conditions that violate state affordable housing laws. It just really pisses me off, the attitude of the developer, a normally reserved Councilmember Darren Suen said. At this point in time, Im willing to fight a little more. I cant support this. Its wrong. Elk Grove leaders on the dais were piqued at project developers who, the councilmembers say, rejected repeated attempts at compromise; at lawmakers who they say are wresting away cities local control; and at an attorney general they say is making an example of the city in civil court. Im so angry and disappointed in a state legislature that has forgotten their local roots, from the Governor to state legislators, Singh-Allen said. You should be angry. Im angry, too. This is no longer about affordable housing. This smells like politics. Ill continue to say it: That location is terrible. This issue will not define who we are, Singh-Allen said later, adding that Elk Grove will continue to build affordable housing, not because were being forced to, but because its the right thing to do. Hiring Spree Learning you're fired via tweet is one thing but learning that you're about to take over as the CEO of Twitter from an Elon Musk post is another entirely. In an interview with the Financial Times, Linda Yaccarino, the CEO of the social network now known as X, admitted that she was somewhat blindsided when Musk tweeted in May that she'd been named chief executive and would "be starting in [around] six weeks!" According to FT's sources, Yaccarino had agreed to take the position but needed to wrap some things at NBCUniversal first just hours before Musk's announcement, but she hadn't expected him to make it public so soon. She also hadn't told her employer, where she was the head of global advertising at the time, that she would be leaving. The move sounds characteristic of Musk's infamously chaotic leadership style, which often involves throwing out the rulebook entirely. That kind of approach often comes at the cost of his employees, who are left to pick up the pieces after being blindsided by him. Poor Timing When Musk posted the abrupt news, the former NBC executive had reportedly been in the middle of finalizing a massive presentation set to take place at New York's famous Radio City Music Hall. When she saw the tweet, she pulled her deputy Joe Benarroch aside and showed it to him. "We need to leave the building," Benarroch whispered. "Right now." Though the president of Comcast, NBC's parent company, supported Yaccarino when she told him the news, her hastily-announced departure put the company in a tailspin. As one NBC ad executive told Insider shortly after the news dropped, Yaccarino's exit was like the "Cuban missile crisis." "This couldn't have happened at a worse time," the senior staffer, who was not named but was said to work closely with Yaccarino, revealed. Under Pressure If things were bad at NBC when she left, however, they've only been worse since she took over the reins, at least ceremonially, at X-formerly-Twitter. Though Yaccarino appeared to maintain her now-characteristic cheery disposition throughout the exchanges FT published, she said the visibility and pressure associated with running this iteration of the social network have taken their toll. "The thing that weighs on me a great deal is the pressure and the burden of the intense and relentless public scrutiny," the CEO said. "I dont know if any human being could anticipate or prepare for that." "Its hard," Yaccarino admitted. "Its hard on me. Its hard on my family, my children, my parents, and that, I would say, in the first 100 days is a continual learning process to balance that." More on X-formerly-Twitter: Don Jr's Twitter Account Got Hacked, Posted That Trump Had Died Less than a month after pledging to expand the safety and elections teams at X, formerly known as Twitter, Elon Musk has instead slashed the workforce. The Information reported Wednesday that half the global team had been cut, including the head of the election integrity team, Dublin-based Aaron Rodericks. At least four people have been let go; its unclear how many remain. In related but separate news, the site has also quietly removed a feature that allowed users in some locations to report election misinformation. Musk appeared to confirm the report Wednesday night, posting, Oh, you mean the Election Integrity Team that was undermining election integrity? Yeah, theyre gone. Musk didnt elaborate on the incendiary claim, and evidence suggests Rodericks firing may be retaliatory. Rodericks had been the subject of a recent disciplinary process at X because, he believes, hed liked posts from his personal account that were critical of Musk and new X CEO Linda Yaccarino. An Irish court last week awarded Rodericks a temporary injunction against the company, barring it from moving forward with what Rodericks lawyers described as a preordained and flawed process. Wednesdays layoffs likely surprised Yaccarino, who told the Financial Times in an interview that the company was expanding the team. The move coincides with a damning 200-page E.U. report this week that found X has the highest ratio of disinformation among all the major social media platforms, followed by Facebook. Related... Elon Musk, too, is calling for Sen. Mitch McConnell to step down. "Seriously, it's time for Mitch to move on, " Musk wrote in an X post. These comments come after McConnell, 81, froze up at two recent press conferences. Elon Musk is adding his voice to the chorus of calls for Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell to relinquish power over the GOP and step down. "Seriously, it's time for Mitch to move on," Musk wrote on Wednesday in a post on X, previously known as Twitter. In a follow-up post, Musk posted a clip of McConnell freezing during a press conference in August. McConnell, 81, was seen freezing up and looking disoriented while answering questions at two recent press conferences, sparking concerns over his health. In July, McConnell had to be whisked away from the podium when he abruptly stopped speaking during the Senate Republicans' weekly press conference. He later returned to take questions, where he assured reporters that he felt "fine." And in August, McConnell froze up again at a press conference in Kentucky. A spokesperson for McConnell later said McConnell "felt momentarily lightheaded and paused during his press conference," per Politico. This was also the press conference that Musk referred to in his September 27 post on X. But McConnell appears unfazed by both episodes. During a press conference on September 6, McConnell said he plans to serve out the rest of his electoral term. "I have no announcements to make on that subject. I'm going to finish my term as leader and I'm going to finish my Senate term," McConnell said, per Politico. Musk's post on Wednesday isn't the first time the billionaire has weighed in on the effectiveness of aging politicians. In July 2022, Musk called for former President Donald Trump's retirement from politics. Trump celebrated his 77th birthday in June. "I don't hate the man, but it's time for Trump to hang up his hat & sail into the sunset," Musk wrote in an X post on July 11. Musk proposed setting an age limit for the US presidency in a separate post on the same day. "Also, I think the legal maximum age for start of Presidential term should be 69," Musk wrote. To be sure, Musk does appear to prefer younger politicians like presidential hopeful and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. Back in November, Musk professed his support for DeSantis in an X post. Musk then hosted DeSantis' campaign launch on X in May, which was riddled with technical glitches and delays. Representatives for Musk and McConnell did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Insider sent outside regular business hours. Read the original article on Business Insider An embattled former Methuen police chief was indicted by a grand jury on a slew of charges that he misused the powers of his position Thursday. Joseph Solomon is now facing charges of perjury by written affidavit (2 counts), obtaining unwarranted privileges in violation of the civil service laws (7 counts), civil service law violations (6 counts), uttering a forged document (1 count) and procurement fraud (1 count), according to the U.S. Attorney Generals office. Additionally, former Methuen police officer Sean Fountain now faces charges of forgery (1 count), uttering a forged document (1count), perjury (1 count), procurement fraud (1 count), and a conflict of interest law violation (1 count). An investigation by the AGs office, done in conjunction with the Essex County District Attorneys office, found that Solomon misused his position of authority as police chief to repeatedly undermine the law for his own benefit by hiring six part-time Methuen police officers, including Fountain, before appointing them to full-time roles. The AGs office also says Solomon made others believe that Fountain had graduated from a police academy when he had not. Fountain allegedly falsely claimed that he had graduated from the Northeast Regional Police Insitute and produced a forged document when questioned about it. The AGs office claims Solomon knew Fountains credentials were falsified but still hired him. The two also allegedly conspired to claim that Fountain was a civil service officer when he was not. Solomon allegedly perjured himself on two separate occasions by stating Fountain was a civil service officer. The indictments against Fountain stem from his misrepresentations about his training credentials, including in his employment application and in a search warrant affidavit, and for the false and forged training certificate he created to deceive others into believing that he was fit to serve as a police officer at any level, the AGs office said in a press release. In January, the Massachusetts Civil Services Commission recommended legal actions against Solomon, claiming allegedly hired his political allies and business associates while improperly earning one of the states richest contracts for a police chief. Solomon was put on leave in December 2020 following a report from a state Inspector General that found irregularities in the way the city handled the contract that led to his $350,000 salary. He retired in 2021. In a lengthy statement, Mayor Neal Perry says the city is looking forward to seeking justice: Today is truly a watershed day in the history of the City of Methuen. Todays announcement of the indictment against former Police Chief Joseph Solomon and former City Council Chair Sean Fountain underscores that no one is above the law. Methuen continues to expend every reasonable effort to steer the city away from the abuses and wrongdoing of the past, and, likewise, the City looks forward to seeking justice against those who have harmed the City. I want to thank the team within the City, whose investigative work helped get the City to this point. Police Chief Scott McNamara, Captain Eric Ferreira, Chief Administrative and Financial Officer Maggie Duprey, City Solicitor Kenneth Rossetti, and former Assistant City Solicitor Peter McQuillan worked diligently together to help get us to this point. I also want to thank the patience and attention of the 53,000 citizens of Methuen. Many of them personally reached out to the District Attorney to demand justice when news broke about the investigation. To those citizens, please know that your representatives heard you, and you deserve to have a local government that is above reproach. Current Police Chief Scott McNamara echoed similar sentiments, saying in part he will work every day to earn the trust of the community: One of my most pressing priorities since my first day as Police Chief has been our work to regain the trust of our community. No one, including police chiefs, are above the law in this community and Commonwealth. I would like to thank the Office of Attorney General Andrea Campbell and Essex District Attorney Paul Tucker and their staffs for their diligent, professional work throughout this investigation. I pledge that every man and woman in our Department will continue to work every day to earn the support of those we serve, and to move beyond the abuses of the past. Embattled highly paid Massachusetts police chief retires Solomon and Fountain will be arraigned in Essex County Superior Court at a later date. 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 Here is how you can tell true First Amendment defenders from the charlatans: They stand up for the right to free expression even when they disagree with the speech in question. The fakers? They stand up for the speech of their friends, and only their friends. Two Missouri Republicans U.S. Sen. Eric Schmitt and Attorney General Andrew Bailey very much like to cast themselves as free speech warriors. Both men had a hand in Missouris ongoing lawsuit against the Biden administration for the pressure it put on social media companies to suppress COVID-19 disinformation during the darker days of the pandemic, and both men frequently mention it in their own online postings. Schmitt, in fact, on Sunday posted the results of a recent poll from Real Clear Politics, a right-leaning outfit, that suggests Democratic voters are somewhat weaker on free speech protections than their Republican counterparts. Just 53% of Democrats said speech should be legal under any circumstances according to the poll, while 74% of Republicans supported that statement. And only 31% of Democrats agreed that I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it. Fifty-one percent of Republican voters agreed with that idea. Tell me more about Threats To Democracy, the senator sneered. On Monday, meanwhile, Bailey went online to decry the Biden administrations hiring of ex-intelligence officials who, he said, tried to censor information about Hunter Biden s laptop on the eve of the 2020 presidential election. Were not going to let Joe Biden destroy free speech in America, Bailey wrote. We dont necessarily agree with Schmitt and Bailey on some of the particulars of the cases they mention. But in a general sense theyre right: The First Amendment, and the free speech rights it guarantees, is a critical foundation of our democracy. Too bad Donald Trump the ostensible leader of their party, a man to whom both Schmitt and Bailey have demonstrated unswerving loyalty doesnt agree. Truth Social vow to investigate media for treason On Sunday evening, the former president went on his Truth Social network and threatened should he win the White House once again to bring down the full force of government power on NBC News and its owner, Comcast, for the crime of publishing mean stories about him. They are almost all dishonest and corrupt, but Comcast, with its one-side and vicious coverage by NBC NEWS, and in particular MSNBC, often and correctly referred to as MSDNC (Democrat National Committee!), should be investigated for its Country Threatening Treason, Trump wrote. Under a second Trump presidency, he wrote, the LameStream media would be thoroughly scrutinized for their supposedly unfair reporting on him. Why should NBC, or any other of the corrupt & dishonest media companies, be entitled to use the very valuable Airwaves of the USA, FREE?, Trump wrote. They are a true threat to Democracy and are, in fact, THE ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE! The Fake News Media should pay a big price for what they have done to our once great Country! Trumps statement was almost directly the opposite of I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it. One could scarcely imagine a more direct threat on the news medias First Amendment rights. In such circumstances, you might expect true defenders of free speech to leap to NBCs defense to chastise the former president gently, perhaps, and urge him to find a more Constitution-friendly way to work out his anger toward his interlocutors. Instead, Schmitt and Bailey remained publicly silent. No social media posts, no cable news appearances, no press releases. Thats not a surprise. Schmitt (eventually) received Trumps endorsement during his Senate run last year. Bailey has already endorsed Trumps latest run for the White House. Both men have supported Trump and taken his support knowing full well the former presidents contempt for constitutional niceties and civil liberties. Weve asked their offices for comment, but had received no reply as of press time. Missouris leading Republicans have every right not to speak out on matters of public importance, of course. Thats covered by the First Amendment too. The rest of us are free to judge their silence and what it says about the consistency of their free speech commitments. The government of Estonia has supported a proposal for the latest (twelfth) EU sanctions package with a complete ban on trade with Russia. Source: European Pravda, citing Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna Details: Tsahkna said Tallinn is proposing that the EU introduce a full trade embargo against Russia, as well as blocking the transit of goods already sanctioned by the EU. "Business with Russia fuels its war machine," the minister added. There are reports in the media that in October, EU member states may start discussing a new package of sanctions against Russia - the twelfth one so far - due to its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. It is known that restrictions on the Russian diamond trade, set to be introduced by the G7, may be announced earlier in the new round of sanctions. The package may be adopted in the first half of October or announced during the EU-US summit scheduled for the same month. 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! Interior ministers of member states of the EU Council have agreed to extend the temporary protection mechanism for refugees from Ukraine for one year from 4 March 2024 to 4 March 2025. Source: European Pravda with reference to the EU Council press service Details: "In order to provide certainty for more than 4 million Ukrainian refugees currently living in the EU, the Council agreed to extend the temporary protection for people fleeing from Russias war of aggression against Ukraine," the press service said. Quote: "The EU will support the Ukrainian people for as long as it takes. The prolongation of the protection status offers certainty to the more than 4 million refugees who have found a safe haven in the EU," said Fernando Grande-Marlaska Gomez, Spanish acting minister of the interior, whose country currently holds the EU Council presidency. After today's political agreement, the EU Council will have to officially decide on the extension of temporary protection. This will follow when the legal procedures and translation into all EU languages are complete. The temporary protection mechanism was activated on 4 March 2022 and automatically extended for one year. On 19 September, the European Commission suggested extending temporary protection for Ukrainians who fled from Russia's aggression. The media reported that Poland had raised certain objections to the extension of temporary protection. Warsaw demanded an increase in EU funding for the maintenance of refugees. However, the continuation of the mechanism requires a unanimous vote, so it was impossible to veto the decision. 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 European Union is discussing expansion from 27 to 36 member states and has begun to negotiate the necessary changes in the EU. Source: European Pravda, citing the announcement of the informal meeting of ministers, published by Spain, which holds the presidency of the EU Council Details: It is about a ministerial meeting on 28-29 September in Murcia to discuss general issues and EU enlargement. It will also be a certain preparatory stage for the meeting of the European Political Community scheduled for 5 October in Granada, where the enlargement issue will also be one of the central issues. "The main focus of the informal ministerial meeting on its first day, Thursday 28 September, will be the need to prepare internally for a possible EU with up to 36 member states and, at the same time, to strengthen support for candidate states with the EU," the announcement states. Several discussions are planned under the chairmanship of Oliver Varhelyi, the European Commissioner for Enlargement and Neighbourhood Policy, during this informal meeting. They will be devoted to the impact of future enlargement on EU policies, the concept of gradual integration of candidate countries during the accession process, and the institutional reforms that the European Union itself needs to be ready for enlargement. During the working lunch, ministers will focus on preparations for the leaders' meeting in Granada and discuss the concept of Open Strategic Autonomy (OSA) the following day, 6 October. Background: The issue of reform of the European Union is being actively discussed against the background of preparations for its expansion at the expense of the states of Eastern Europe and the Western Balkans. At the request of France and Germany, considered the most influential members of the European Union, 12 experts proposed a plan for structural reform of the union so that it would be ready to accept new states in the future. Earlier, Oliver Varhelyi, the European Commissioner for Enlargement and Neighbourhood Policy, supported the timetable for the admission of candidate countries to the EU until 2030, proposed by Charles Michel, the President of the European Council. 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! BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The European Commission on Thursday said it had opened an infringement procedure against Belgium, Bulgaria and Croatia for failing to correctly adopt EU directives for fair trial rights in criminal proceedings. The infringement concerns a failure to correctly transpose the directive on the strengthening of the presumption of innocence and the right to be present at the trial in criminal proceedings, the commission said. Belgium, Bulgaria and Croatia now have two months to take the necessary measures to address the shortcomings identified by the commission. If their decision does not satisfy the commission, it may decide to send a reasoned opinion. (Reporting by Bart Meijer, Editing by Charlotte Van Campenhout) The European Commission has warned Western firms and governments it could ban the export of certain components to some third-party countries from where Russia and Iran source drone parts, the Guardian reported on Sept. 28. The EU is working closely with the countries in question on a diplomatic level to prevent the re-export of sanctioned goods, the Commission's spokesperson told the Guardian. However, should these efforts prove insufficient, "the only remaining option is to stop exporting to those third countries the very specific goods we are most concerned about, using the EU's anti-circumvention tool," the spokesperson said. This tool would prevent the EU countries from exporting goods to those countries that help Russia and Iran circumvent the sanctions. The EU's statement follows the Guardian's earlier report on a leaked Ukrainian document submitted to the Group of Seven (G7) countries in August. According to the letter, Shahed-type drones using Western components have been used in at least 600 strikes on Ukraine. Read also: Yermak: Russian drones still have Western-made parts, new sanctions needed The drones, produced in Iran and first used in attacks against Ukraine in September 2022, are cheap to manufacture and, when used in swarms, can be "a headache" for Ukrainian air defense, Air Force spokesperson Yurii Ihnat said. Russia has been successful also in producing its own domestic-made copies of the Iranian drones. According to the leaked document, there was no sign of deliberate wrongdoing on the part of Western companies, as Iran utilizes regular commercial components for its drone production. The Ukrainian report said that almost all imports to Iran came from Turkey, India, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, and Costa Rica. The Western countries have been seeking to thwart Moscow's ability to circumvent sanctions imposed against it in response to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The EU's latest 11th package was focused, among others, on curbing Russia's ability to obtain dual-use technologies that could be utilized for weapons production. On Sept. 27, the U.S. Department of Treasury imposed sanctions against international companies and individuals supporting Iran's production of Shahed drones. Read also: Kyivs frustration boils as flow of Western chips for Russian missiles continues uninterrupted Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) will expand funding for projects in Ukraine in 2024. The main areas of cooperation will concern financing equipment manufacturers for mine clearance of agricultural land, a project to ensure military risks, and lending to the economy's real sector. Source: Ministry of Economy following a meeting between First Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine and Economy Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko and EBRD President Odile Renaud-Basso. "We discussed the current areas of cooperation for this and next year with our colleagues from the EBRD. We need to increase the volume of humanitarian demining of Ukrainian agricultural lands because we should not wait 700 years to restore life in the territory where military battles took place a few months ago. We know that the process of mine clearance of Ukrainian territories is extremely complex and financially costly. But restoration work and economic development in the de-occupied territories are impossible without this. The EBRD is ready to join the financing of mine clearance of agricultural land and develop a particular financial product in cooperation with banks and the Ministry of Labour capital financing for manufacturers of special equipment for mine clearance. This can give an impetus to the development of technologies and mechanical engineering in Ukraine," Svyrydenko said. The meeting also discussed further cooperation between the EBRD and Development Finance Institutions (DFI) to coordinate investment efforts in Ukraine, especially in the economy's private sector. In addition, they discussed increasing direct lending to Ukrainian private businesses, as well as supporting the liquidity of state-owned companies. One of the topics for discussion was insurance of military risks. "The money to support the private sector has a significantly more significant cumulative effect on the economy than direct budget support. But for investors to come to Ukraine, we must provide them full protection. That is why I am pleased to announce that the EBRD is preparing the legal structuring and management of the relevant project, as well as preparing a product for insuring goods in transit and warehouses against military risks together with Ukrainian insurance companies. At the next stages, the project may also include insurance of investment risks," Svyrydenko added. To date, the EBRD has participated in 547 projects in Ukraine. The total investment of the European Bank for reconstruction and development in Ukraine reached 18,384 billion. 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! Hong Kong suspended trade in all Evergrande Group shares and derivative instruments Thursday as the financial and legal woes of the mainland China property giant continued to mount. File photo by Stephen Shaver/UPI Sept. 28 (UPI) -- Market regulators in Hong Kong suspended trading Thursday in shares of the troubled Chinese property giant Evergrande after reports founder and chairman Hui Ka Yan is under house arrest. Trade in Evergrande derivatives was also halted, indefinitely, the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong said in a trading notice, only a month after trading resumed following a 17-month suspension. "Due to the suspension of trading in the underlying shares, trading in futures and options for China Evergrande Group have been suspended until further notice," the notice said without providing further explanation for the action. However, the suspension came three days after Its mainland division Hengda Real Estate defaulted, missing a scheduled payment Monday on a $547 million bond issue. The company blamed the default on an inability to roll over the debt due to Hengda being under investigation by the China Securities Regulatory Commission. Hui was reportedly placed under residential surveillance by Chinese authorities earlier this month with other current and former executives rounded up in recent days. Hui is not under arrest and has not been formally accused of any crime. However, a number of employees of Evergrande's wealth management unit are under arrest after being detained on Sept. 18 in Shenzhen, just across the border from Hong Kong. It was not immediately clear whether the individuals had been charged with any criminal offense. The suspension of its shares is the latest blow for the embattled company which is due in court in Hong Kong on Oct. 30 to try to fend off a winding-up petition by its creditors. The property developer, which first defaulted in 2021, has liabilities of about $328 billion, much of it owed to ordinary Chinese people with down payments on apartments and houses that have either not been built or remain unfinished. Evergrande's cash flow woes have also left its suppliers highly exposed. In July, the group reported that it had lost a combined $81.1 billion in 2021 and 2022, mostly through payments to suppliers and lenders, as it battled to finish more than 1,000 thousand projects in 280 cities. Evergrande filed for Chapter 15 bankruptcy protection on Aug. 17 in New York to gain breathing space to restructure debt accumulated over 15 years as it strove to become one of China's leading companies. The group said at the time that it was seeking recognition of restructuring talks underway in Hong Kong, the Cayman Islands and the British Virgin Islands. Evergrande is the most high-profile symbol of a looming real estate crisis that poses a real threat to China's economy as the country wrestles with a shaky economic reopening from three years of COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions. A number of other big Chinese developers have defaulted during the past 12 months with many more struggling with cash flow or access to lines of credit to finish projects. In a filing to HKEX, the day before trading in its shares resumed Aug. 28, the company said it lost $4.5 billion in the half year to June 30, down from $9 billion in the same period in 2022, with directors taking "a number of measures to improve the liquidity position and financial position of the group." Revenue was up 44% to $17.5 billion compared with the January-to-June period in 2022, but cash holdings were down by 6.3%. Evergrande's problems have had a knock-on effect on the whole real estate sector, estimated to make up a third of China's economy, leading to other developers defaulting on their debts and leaving a trail of unfinished developments across the country. To many Texans, Buc-ees is more of an experience than a gas station and convenience store. Fans say a trip to Buc-ees is like a treasure hunt that includes amazing bathrooms (touted as the worlds cleanest), fresh barbecue, roasting pecans, vast walls of jerky and candy, unique merchandise and a picture with the beaver mascot. But as the Texas-based company aggressively expands across the nation, not every community it picks for a new travel center has welcomed the beloved beaver with open arms. Buc-ees likes to build along mostly rural stretches of highways that are strategically between bigger cities. This has led to complaints in some places over the prospect of increased traffic, noise and pollution, and the fear of even more development that a Buc-ees can spawn. As difficult as it might be for many Texans to fathom, opponents in other states say Buc-ees is, well, just too big. An inflatable beaver greeted shoppers when Fort Worths Buc-ees opened in 2016. In central North Carolina, where Buc-ees is proposing a travel center along Interstate 40 between Durham and Greensboro, an Elon University psychology professor called the mega-stores consumerism at its worst. While Mathew Gendle admitted he loved the chains seemingly endless selection of humorous tchotchkes, he said the chain is one of many major retailers that pose egregious environmental harm. Buc-ees locations are enormous often featuring more than 100 fuel pumps and over 50,000 square feet of retail space packed with cheap souvenirs and consumer goods, Gendle wrote in an opinion column published in the Charlotte Observer. And I believe that this excess makes Buc-ees a prime example of end-stage American consumerism at its worst. Complaints derailed previous plans for a North Carolina Buc-ees not far from the current proposed site along I-40. The company pulled out after residents in Orange County, home to Chapel Hill, protested over congestion and threats to a nearby protected watershed. Buc-ees made clear its disappointment at the time. Unfortunately, Orange County commissioners were not receptive to 200 jobs with starting pay of $15 per hour and full benefits, more than $1 million in direct tax revenue, and multiple services that would create additional jobs, tax revenue and benefit a sector of the community that has been historically underserved, Buc-ees said in a statement. Customers take photos with the Buc-ees beaver mascot during the grand opening of Buc-ees in Sevierville on Monday, June 26, 2023. Buc-ees first opened in Texas in 1982 and has since expanded to 46 locations across Texas and beyond, with more in the pipeline. Buc-ees now has travel centers in Tennessee, Florida, South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia and Kentucky. The chain also plans to build in Colorado. Most of the time, news of a new Buc-ees location is lauded by legions of fans. Facebook groups with names like BUC-EES LOVERS have hundreds of thousands of followers. One Facebook group for the store in Sevierville, Tennessee, which just opened in June, already has nearly 60,000 members. Jonathan Curry cheers as he holds up his daughter Olivia Curry while waiting in line for the grand opening of Buc-ees in Sevierville on June 26. But the privately owned company based near Houston continues to hit some roadblocks. In September, Buc-ees halted plans for a third location in Tennessee, this one in Clarksville, after residents began protesting in June. Community members said construction noise and traffic were their top concerns. In Mississippi, construction on a new Interstate 10 interchange to accommodate a Buc-ees travel center near Biloxi caused traffic jams that can back up for miles. Buc-ees founder and owner Arch Beaver Aplin poses for a photo at the site of the future store near Biloxi, Miss., during a ground breaking on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023. Last summer, a group in Springfield, Missouri, calling itself Dam Up Buc-ees fought against city leaders offering tax incentives for an oversided gas station on steriods that threatens our drinking water. They lost the fight. North Texans may remember how the Denton Buc-ees along Interstate 35E initially faced pushback when more than 200 city residents launched a campaign against using tax incentives. That controversy was in stark contrast to the earlier opening of the Fort Worth Buc-ees in 2016, which was universally celebrated as the first location in the Metroplex. Minutes before the opening Tiffany Bonilla makes a selfie of her group with the bronze Buc-ees statue. Nik Holman, a former mailman in Terrell, can understand why some people in rural communities are less than enthusiastic about Buc-ees. When a travel center came to his small city east of Dallas in 2015, the peace and quiet of the country disappeared. Not only is that place massive, but for some weird reason, its also a mecca for many travelers, Holman said. Of course, Buc-ees brought in traffic, so retail, and restaurants came in along with hotels. A statue of the famous Buc-ees beaver mascot sports a face mask last fall in Terrell, Texas. Now that Texas has lifted COVID restrictions, individual companies must decide whether to require employees or customers to wear masks. Buc-ees locations still have signs at entrances stating that masks are required, although some patrons ignore the postings. Holman said when he was a kid growing up in Terrell, he could see a sky full of stars at night. After Buc-ees, all he could see was the light from the beaver sign towering over the trees near his neighborhood. Within just a couple of years, that whole area went from sleepy cow pastures to its own micro-city, he said. The country is vanishing. Omar Navarro, the MAGA internet personality who repeatedly failed to oust Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA) from Congress, was slapped with a whopping 43 federal charges on Wednesday for allegedly spending his donors money to fund trips to Las Vegas, Californias wine country, and more. Navarro, 34, is accused of he funneling tens of thousands of dollars in campaign donations back to himselfsometimes through a friend and his mom, who are also caught up in the scandal. Federal prosecutors also announced Wednesday theyd arrested Navarros 59-year-old mother, Dora Asghari, and his 34-year-old friend, Zacharias Diamantides-Abel. Theyre accused of conspiring with Navarro to convert campaign donations to personal use and face a combined eight counts of wire fraud and one count of conspiracy each. The feds on Wednesday unsealed a 45-page indictment that revealed a laundry list of charges against Navarro: 13 counts of wire fraud, 26 counts of falsification of records, three counts of prohibited use of campaign funds, and one count of conspiracy. A Perennial Congressional Candidate Beloved by Trump World Was Just Arrested on Stalking Charges Navarro, Asghari, and Diamantides-Abel are staring down prison sentences that could be as long as 20 years if convicted, the DOJ said. The failed congressional candidate is accused of getting creative with how he ciphered his campaign fundsgoing as far as creating a sham charity called the United Latino Foundation to embezzle money from his campaign to personal accounts between 2018 and 2020. In other instances, hed allegedly cut checks from his campaign to Diamantides-Abel and Asghari, whod deposit the money into their accounts, withdraw it, and return it to Navarro. The feds allege that Navarro deposited over $100,000 in cash into his personal accounts, even though he had no other source of income aside from the campaign funds. Those deposits came soon after Diamantides-Abel and Asghari deposited donor money into their accounts, the DOJ said. Navarro spent the money on vacations and trips to right-wing events throughout the country, some of which he wrote off as campaign expenses to the Federal Election Commission, prosecutors alleged. Hes also accused of using donor money to pay private attorneys to represent him when he pleaded guilty to felony stalking in 2020 Navarro lost each of his four races against Waters for her congressional seat representing south Los Angelesregularly receiving less than 25 percent of the vote. While his attempts to join Congress have repeatedly flopped, they grew Navarros online following as he positioned himself as a MAGA personality. In one failed bid, the Donald Trump ally and ex-adviser Roger Stone was briefly his campaign manager. Navarros growing presence as a media personality appeared to spike his donation numbers. The Los Angeles Times reports that he pulled in a measly $2,846 in his 2016 campaign, but brought in $1.17 million in 2018 and $731,118 in 2020. He raised $85,997 in 2022. Citing filings with the FEC, the Times reported that Navarro named himself campaign treasurer for each campaign. 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. Former Louisville Police officer Brett Hankison describes what he saw in the apartment of Breonna Taylor during testimony Wednesday, March 2, 2022, in Louisville, Ky. Hankison is currently on federal trial, charged with using excessive force by firing blindly into Taylors apartment on March 13, 2020, through a sliding glass door and a window covered by curtains. (AP Photo/Timothy D. Easley, Pool) After some delay, the long-awaited trial of former Louisville Metro Police Detective Brett Hankison on federal charges that he violated the civil rights of Breonna Taylor and four other people on the night when she was killed begins Monday with jury selection. The trial is expected to last up to several weeks and centers around the shots Hankison fired in the apartment complex on the night of Taylor's fatal shooting. Here's everything to know about the case: Who is Brett Hankison? How is he connected to the shooting of Breonna Taylor? Brett Hankison is a former detective with LMPD who has faced state and federal charges in connection with the fatal shooting of Breonna Taylor. He was acquitted of the state charges and is now going to trial in federal court. Taylor, a 26-year-old emergency room technician, was inside her South End apartment when she was fatally shot by police officers attempting to serve a search warrant in the early morning of March 13, 2020, as a part of a narcotics investigation. Seven officers were on scene for the warrant, and three fired their guns: Sgt. John Mattingly and Detectives Hankison and Myles Cosgrove. They fired a combined 32 rounds throughout the apartment. Hankison had worked for the department about 17 years when he fired 10 rounds into Taylor's apartment through a covered glass door and window. Three of those rounds traveled into an adjacent apartment with a man, pregnant woman and 5-year-old inside. Hankison testified in Jefferson Circuit Court that he was trying to protect two fellow detectives at the apartments front door, including Mattingly, who was shot in the leg by Kenneth Walker, Taylor's boyfriend. Walker said he thought the police were intruders. Mattingly and Cosgrove returned fire and a bullet from Cosgroves gun hit Taylor, killing her. Didn't Hankison already go to trial for his role in the Breonna Taylor shooting? No. In September 2020, Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron announced a grand jury had indicted Hankison on three wanton endangerment counts. But that was related to the three people in the apartment adjacent to Taylor's. He and the other officers were not directly charged in her death on the state level. In March 2022, Hankison was found not guilty on these state charges. He has had those criminal charges expunged. Hankison is now federally charged with using excessive force by firing blindly into Taylors apartment through the sliding glass door and window. He is accused of violating the civil rights of Taylor, her boyfriend, Walker and the three neighbors. Is Brett Hankison still employed by LMPD? Hankison was fired in 2020 when then-interim Louisville Metro Police Chief Robert Schroeder called the rounds he fired "a shock to the conscience." What happens next? The trial had been slated to begin Aug. 21, but on a defense motion, U.S. District Judge Rebecca Grady Jennings reset it for Oct. 30. The trial is expected to last approximately two to three weeks, with Jennings saying it could be as long as four weeks. More: Which officers face federal charges in the Breonna Taylor case: What you should know More: Federal civil rights trial of ex-LMPD Detective Brett Hankison in Breonna Taylor case is delayed further This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Brett Hankison's trial in Breonna Taylor case to begin in Oct. She worked for decades as a secretary at the Erie County Courthouse, where she helped run the offices of a judge and the county's top court administrator. She got to know many other women who had jobs in the building, and she befriended many of them. The now-former secretary, Jennifer A. Prichard, returned to her longtime workplace on Wednesday, but on the other side of the law and with many of her former friends opposing her in court. Prichard was sentenced to a minimum of two months in the Erie County Prison and a year of probation for harassing six of her female courthouse co-workers by mailing them a total of 72 anonymous and threatening letters over nearly five years, ending when she resigned from her courthouse job a year ago. She also sent an anonymous and threatening text to the husband of one of the women. Some of the anonymous letters were related to Prichard having an affair at the time with an Erie County deputy sheriff who no longer works for the county, according to testimony at the sentencing. Prichard was concerned that some of the women were romantically involved with the deputy, and she sent letters to the women to try to keep them away from the deputy though the women had nothing to do with him, according to testimony. Jennifer A. Prichard, 55, a former secretary at the Erie County Courthouse, walks into the courthouse on Wednesday, to be sentenced for sending harassing letters to six other women employees at the courthouse. She got at least two months in the Erie County Prison. Prichard sent the letters to the women's residences. One of the letters stated that cameras were watching the woman who received it. Another woman said the letters frightened her because they mentioned her children. Another woman said the letters threatened her job and her reputation. Prichard was working at the courthouse when she sent the letters, which were typewritten and had no return addresses. Some of the women who got the letters confided to Prichard, as a friend and co-worker, that they were receiving the letters and that the letters alarmed them without the women knowing at the time that Prichard was the person sending the letters. Also according to testimony at the sentencing, Prichard sent the anonymous and threatening text message to the husband of one of the women moments after Prichard had ended a telephone conversation with the woman in which they had been talking as friends. "It is almost a Jekyll-and-Hyde situation," the prosecutor, Hillary Hoffman, an assistant Erie County District Attorney, said in court. Prichard in some of the letters criticized the women for being married and cheating on their husbands, though, in reality, Prichard was the only person who was cheating on her husband by having an affair with the deputy sheriff, according to testimony. "She was either delusional at the time or acting with malice," Hoffman said. "She was hypocritical." Defense wanted probation while DA wanted more Prichard, who turns 55 on Thursday, was sentenced Wednesday immediately after she pleaded guilty in Erie County Common Pleas Court to one count each of stalking as a first-degree misdemeanor and harassment as a third-degree misdemeanor. A retired judge from Clarion County, James Arner, accepted the plea and ordered the sentence. The judges in Erie County were recused from the case to avoid a conflict of interest involving Prichard, who frequently interacted with the judges as a secretary. The minimum sentence of two months in the Erie County Prison and a year of probation was in the standard range of the state sentencing guidelines for Prichard's crimes. She faced a maximum possible sentence of six years, but her lack of a prior record helped make her eligible for a lesser penalty. The total sentence of incarceration that Arner gave Prichard was a minimum of two months and a maximum of two years, minus a day. The subtraction of a day allows Prichard to serve the sentence at the Erie County Prison rather than state prison, where inmates serve sentences of two years or more. Arner said Prichard will be eligible for parole once she serves the minimum sentence of two months. Arner also ordered Prichard to perform 50 hours of community service, undergo a mental health evaluation and repay the District Attorney's Office nearly $10,000 spent on putting the letters through DNA analysis and testing them for fingerprints. Though the sentence was in the standard range, the prison term was more than what Prichard wanted. Her lawyer, John Carlson, argued for a sentence of only probation. He cited Prichard's lack of a prior record, her years of service to Erie County and her remorse. "If jail is the reason for the harshest of criminals, Jen Prichard is not the harshest of criminals," Carlson said. Hoffman asked for a sentence in the aggravated range of the sentencing guidelines, which would have sent Prichard to prison for a longer period of time. "These letters are the definition of harassment," she said. Arner said a prison sentence was appropriate given the number of letters, the number of victims, the nearly five-year period during which Prichard sent the letters and the nature of the letters' contents, which the women said made them afraid for themselves and their families. "I think the most important element is intent," Arner told Prichard. A sentence of anything less than what he imposed, Arner said, "would depreciate the seriousness of the crimes." Prichard apologizes, but offers no explanation Prichard asked for leniency. She apologized to the six women, five of whom were in court for the two-hour sentencing hearing. She and Carlson said the situation with the letters, including her affair, had caused her husband of 26 years to divorce her. They said she had moved into a one-bedroom apartment in Erie and was working part-time as a cashier at a Dollar Tree and a Sheetz. They said she is going to counseling and has turned to volunteering as way to restart her life. "I am so embarrassed to be standing here. I sincerely apologize and ask for forgiveness," Prichard said. "I failed to live up to the standards I have set for myself. I try to be a better person than I was yesterday through small acts of kindness." "Somewhere along the way I got lost and I hurt people I truly cared about," Prichard said. A former secretary at the Erie County Courthouse was sentenced on Wednesday for sending harassing letters to other women who work at the courthouse. Prichard provided no explanation for why she sent the letters, despite all the evidence that her affair with the deputy sheriff motivated her. "Why did you do this?" Arner said to her. "I am in counseling to figure out the reasons why," Prichard said. She was led out of the courtroom in handcuffs. Text message helped unravel case of harassing letters Prichard had worked for the county for nearly 24 years. She had worked as the secretary for the county's district court administrator for more than three years, starting in January 2019, according to county records. She worked from November 2007 to January 2019 as a secretary for Erie County Judge William R. Cunningham, who retired in January 2019. She worked from February 1999 to November 2007 as a secretary in the county Office of Children and Youth. Prichard resigned from her $46,254-a-year job as secretary to the district court administrator on Sept. 26, 2022. She stepped down after a detective with the Erie County District Attorney's Office confronted her about the letters. The detective, Jon Reddinger, had traced the text sent in the case to a cellphone that Prichard had used, according to the criminal complaint that Reddinger filed against her. Prichard admitted to Reddinger that she sent the letters, according to the complaint. The complaint stated that Prichard also did not deny having an affair with the deputy sheriff. Prichard pleaded guilty to harassing all the women Going into Wednesday's hearing, Prichard faced 19 counts 17 third-degree misdemeanors of harassment by communication in an anonymous manner and two first-degree misdemeanor counts of stalking. She was accused of sending the 72 letters to six women and the anonymous text messages to the husband of one of the women between October 2017 and September 2022. The 19 counts were designed to cover all the letters and the text message. The harassment charges pertained to most of the letters and the text message. The stalking charge pertained to letters Prichard sent to one of the women in which Prichard referred to the woman's children. She pleaded guilty to one count each of harassment and stalking in a plea deal. The District Attorney's Office incorporated the information in the 17 other counts into the two counts, but withdrew the 17 counts as another part of the plea deal. The consolidation of all the information into the two counts meant that Prichard pleaded guilty to harassing all the victims the six women and the husband of one of the women. As part of the plea deal, the District Attorney's Office declined to prosecute Prichard for sending 13 anonymous letters to the wife of the deputy sheriff with whom she was having the affair, Hoffman said. Women who received letters tells judge of fears The number of letters Prichard sent to the six women varied. One woman got two, the least amount, while another got 37, the most. The six women were all working at the courthouse when they received the letters. Two were working as probation officers, one was a deputy sheriff, one was a secretary at the courthouse, one was a clerk at the courthouse and one was working in a clerical position at the Erie County Sheriff's Office. They said they reported the letters to the police and eventually learned that they were all getting them. At Wednesday's hearing, Hoffman said the female deputy sheriff later learned that Prichard sent the letters to her after Prichard saw that woman with the deputy sheriff with whom Prichard was having an affair. The female deputy was with the other deputy only because they had been assigned to work in the same courtroom. "It almost became scary to grab the mail because I did not know what was coming," the female deputy told Arner. Hoffman said Prichard targeted the woman who received the 37 letters after she saw that woman talking to the deputy with whom Prichard was having an affair. Prichard asked the woman if she was having an affair with the deputy sheriff, and the woman repeatedly said she was not, but Prichard sent the letters anyway, Hoffman said. Prichard also sent that woman's husband the threatening text message. "Jennifer Prichard was a friend," the woman told Arner. "I confided in Jen the whole time this was this was going on." "I honestly think she needs help," the woman also said. Making a case: Secretary at Erie County Courthouse charged with sending harassing letters to other women Recusal result: Outside judge assigned to harassment case against ex-secretary at Erie County Courthouse A woman who was working as a probation officer when she received the letters said she had become friendly with Prichard over the years. The woman was not in court on Wednesday, but Hoffman, the prosecutor, read a letter that the woman sent the judge. "Once I received the first letter, I thought it was a cruel joke," the woman said in her letter. "The letter contained comments that I was sleeping with a married man and made reference that I was that type of person." The woman said she reported the letters to police, and "was constantly on high alert, anxious, stressed, always looking over my shoulder." As Hoffman said, Prichard's dual behavior was like something out of "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde," the classic Victorian novel that explores duality and duplicitousness. The woman's letter to the judge also characterized Prichard as deceitful. "I am sure I will never fully know or hear why Jennifer Prichard did what she did to myself as well as to all of us," the woman said in the letter. "She did not just do this to random people. She knew exactly what she was doing when she targeted all of us. "She knew each of our lives, and she preyed upon that. She harassed each of through letters and then went to work the next day and very cordially pretended to be each of our friends knowing that we were all suffering." Also in court: Ex-Erie TV news anchor pleads guilty, is sentenced for her fake stalking claim to police Contact Ed Palattella at epalattella@timesnews.com. Follow him on X @ETNpalattella. This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Ex-secretary at Erie courthouse sentenced for harassing other women By Fatos Bytyci PRISTINA (Reuters) - Kosovo's president Vjosa Osmani has accused Serbia and its president Aleksandar Vucic of being behind a shootout between armed men and Kosovar police in the north of the country last weekend, in the worst violence in the restive area in years. Kosovo authorities said police fought around 30 heavily-armed Serbs who stormed the quiet village of Banjska on Sunday and barricaded themselves into a Serbian Orthodox monastery. Three attackers and one police officer were killed. The gunbattle has prompted new international concern over stability in Kosovo, which has an ethnic Albanian majority and declared independence from Serbia in 2008 after a guerrilla uprising and a 1999 NATO intervention. "Kosovo is under attack," Osmani told Reuters in an interview at her office on Thursday. "The (armed) group simply exercised the intentions and the motives of Serbia as a country and Vucic as the leader." Serbia and Vucic have denied accusations of involvement. No group has come forward to claim responsibility for the attack or explain the motives of the gunmen. Serbia, which has not recognized its former province's independence, blames Kosovo for precipitating violence by mistreating ethnic Serb residents, a charge Kosovo denies. Osmani said Serbia still has territorial claims against Kosovo and was acting to accomplish a 'Crimea model' by creating tensions in Kosovo's north where some 50,000 local Serbs still see Belgrade as their capital and reject rule from Pristina. "What I would say to President Vucic is stop messing with Kosovo. Kosovo is going to defend its freedom, its independence and its sovereignty at any price," Osmani said. "They are trying to carry out a Crimea model in the Republic of Kosovo but we will absolutely not let that happen... [we] will defend every inch of Kosovo territory." Russia seized and annexed Ukraine's Crimea region in 2014, and Kosovo authorities fear Serbia could carve away the northern part of Kosovo. Kosovo's government has published what it says are facts that show the group was trained, armed and received other support from the Belgrade government and security agencies. Osmani said that similar attacks may be repeated again in the near future and asked the international community to do everything possible to stop Serbia supporting such groups. "I am very much concerned that such attacks, even of a higher scale, might happen in the future if Serbia is not condemned, first of all for this terrorist act of aggression," she said. Kosovo and Serbia have been in talks for more than a decade on normalising relations, in a process of mediation led by the European Union. Early this year they agreed on a deal proposed by the EU, but since then they have not been able to agree on how to implement it. Osmani said talks between the two cannot continue as before. "It is absolutely not business as usual any longer," she said. "We've been victims of an aggression by Serbia and everyone should treat it as such, also in their approach towards Serbia from now on." Three men have so far been charged with participating in the attack. On Sunday police displayed an array of weapons and ammunition they said had been seized, including former Yugoslav army assault rifles, machine guns, sniper rifles, mortars, anti-tank rocket launchers, hand grenades, land mines and drones. Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti said police had found weapons worth 5 million euros, "sufficient for hundreds of fighters". (Reporting by Fatos Bytyci; Editing by Alexandra Hudson) By Ivana Sekularac and Aleksandar Vasovic BELGRADE (Reuters) - Serbia will investigate the events that led to a gunbattle at a monastery in northern Kosovo that Pristina has blamed on Belgrade, President Aleksandar Vucic said on Thursday, denying any government involvement in the incident. Kosovo police fought around 30 heavily armed Serbs who barricaded themselves into the Serbian Orthodox monastery in the village of Banjska for hours on Sunday. Three attackers and a Kosovo Albanian police officer were killed in the skirmishes. Some 50,000 Serbs who live in north Kosovo, do not recognise Pristina institutions and see Belgrade as their capital. They have often clashed with Kosovo police and international peacekeepers, but the weekend's violence was the worst in years. Vucic told Reuters that Belgrade condemned the killing of the policeman, adding Serbia "will launch proceedings before appropriate judicial bodies" and investigate suspects. "What suspected crimes these would be, that is the question for the prosecutor," he said in his office in Belgrade. He accused Kosovo police shooting dead one of the gunmen in the head "from the distance of a meter" after he had surrendered, describing it as an "execution". Veton Elshani, deputy regional commander for the north of Kosovo, told Reuters: This is nonsense. Our officers will never do such thing. One of the arrested men we gave first aid to in the field to save his life after he had sustained injuries. No group has come forward to claim responsibility for the attack or explain the motives of the gunmen. Vucic denied allegations from Kosovo's President Vjosa Osmani that Belgrade had incited the violence, saying Serbia would not benefit from it as that would jeopardise its position in EU-sponsored talks with Pristina. "Why this would be beneficial for Belgrade? What would be the idea? To destroy our position we have been building for a year? To destroy this in a day? ... Serbia does not want war," he said. In 2012, Kosovo and Serbia committed to the EU-sponsored talks. Normalisation of relations is key for both counties to progress on the path towards integration with the EU. SERB AUTONOMY The gunbattle prompted renewed international concern about the stability of Kosovo, which declared independence in 2008, nearly a decade after NATO bombing ousted Serbian security forces from what was then Serbia's predominantly Albanian southern province. Vucic pledged Serbia would investigate the origin of weapons seized after the incident by Kosovo police, who have displayed a cache including assault rifles, machine guns, anti-tank rocket launchers, hand grenades, land mines and drones. He also said Milan Radoicic, one of the top-ranking Kosovo Serb politicians who, according to authorities in Pristina, was present during the gunbattle would be "summoned by the prosecutor". Serbia considers Kosovo as its integral part and, with the backing of a number of countries, including United Nations Security Council veto-wielding members Russia, China and five EU members, refuses to recognise its independence. Belgrade finances schools, public health system, and most of other institutions in parts of Kosovo where Serbs constitute a majority. Vucic accused Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti of wanting to expel Serbs from Kosovo and of stalling a compromise solution needed for mending the ties between Belgrade and Pristina. "The cause of all problems in Kosovo is Albin Kurti. He is the one who brought about all of this," he said. He said Kurti's refusal to form an Association of Serb Municipalities, a body that under provisions of a 2013 agreement between Belgrade and Pristina would secure Kosovo Serbs more autonomy, had fuelled tensions that led to the violence in Banjska. Kurti has repeatedly said that such an association would enable Serb majority regions to secede and join Serbia. "For us the position (in Kosovo) is clearly dreadful, but ... we have to be with our people, ... (and) try to preserve peace," Vucic said. "The solution is always (in) the dialogue." (Reporting by Ivana Sekularac and Aleksandar Vasovic; Additional reporting by Fatos Bytyci in Pristina; Editing by Alison Williams) OUTSIDE KYIV, UKRAINE Ukrainian pilots are honing their skills in virtual F-16 fighter jet cockpits as they anxiously await approval to travel abroad for training. A Ukrainian pilot gave a demonstration to a reporter from The Hill in an exclusive visit to a secret facility this month, where the cockpit simulation was displayed on large computer monitors for a small audience. Andrii, a Su-27 fighter pilot who goes by the call sign Sabre, sat in a mock jet seat with a joystick, pedals under his feet, and a throttle to the left. The action takes place in a virtual reality headset. The ground location, while pixelated, is Russian-occupied Ukrainian territory, and Andrii must identify his target, discharge his bomb and execute an anti-missile maneuver. And you will see that it explodes, he explains, as a small fire burns on the computer screen. This is the fulfillment of the mission, precisely how it is supposed to be in reality. Oleksii Diakiv, head of the training command for the Air Force of Ukraine, operates an F-16 fighter jet through a virtual simulator computer program. (Courtesy Alexander Gorgan) Andrii keeps his hands on the controls while leaning his body and swiveling his head in the same movements he would undertake in the Soviet-era Su-27 he typically flies. On the side of his left arm is a patch for The Ghosts of Kyiv, the 40th tactical aviation brigade of the air force that draws its name from the debunked myth of a single fighter pilot hailed for taking down multiple Russian planes. We are studying F-16s. We are not interested in other aircraft, he said, echoing a message that Ukraines civilian and military leaders have reiterated for months in meetings with Western partners. After hours in the simulator, Andrii said that when he does sit in the jet, his focus can be on flying because he will know, precisely, how to manage the controls. We need to learn and understand the function of every button or switch, and where it is located. That will allow us later to fulfill certain missions quicker. So, we need to learn how to use and maintain this aircraft competently, he said. The simulator program training pilots on F-16s has not been previously reported. After a visit by The Hill, the Ukrainian air force released a promotional video on the program featuring Andrii and Oleksii Diakiv, head of the training command for the air force of Ukraine. All of us understand that the future belongs to F-16 aircraft or the other aircraft which our partners will provide us with, Andrii says in the video, sitting in the cockpit of his fighter jet. Thats why we need to train now, learn the cockpit equipment, armament system and its employment. The genesis of the simulator training program was part of a push to get American A-10 Thunderbolt attack aircraft to Ukraine but that effort was eventually shelved. The simulators are provided by the nonprofit Heroes and Allies, which had set up the virtual training program for A-10s more than a year earlier. They began purchasing computer software and controls for the F-16 program beginning in August of last year. We still have hope that Ukraine will receive the A-10 Thunderbolt II, after the F-16 is provided to Ukraine and its use is fully deployed, said Alexander Gorgan, co-founder of Heroes and Allies. President Biden agreed in June to allow the transfer of American-made F-16s from allied countries to Ukraine, and he announced in August that the U.S. would start training some Ukrainian pilots and support personnel at a base in Arizona as soon as October. But delivery of the aircraft and their operations are not expected to take place until 2024 at the earliest. Diakiv told The Hill that the simulator program is expected to reduce the overall length of the training for pilots, but its a protocol thats never been tried before. We are taking this road for the first time now. So at this moment, I cannot say how much we will be able to reduce the length of training, owing to that approach, he explained through a translator. But we are sure that this will reduce the time needed for that training. But once we have that experience, we certainly will be able to share it. The simulator also allows pilots the space to practice missions on the ground without wasting expensive fuel or risking a deadly training accident. Two weeks before The Hills visit with Andrii, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that a training accident killed three pilots, among them Andriy Juice Pilshchykov, a national hero who had taken on an informal role of a spokesperson for Ukraines F-16s push. Juice spoke to The Hill in August 2022, crediting American-provided anti-radar missiles as key in suppressing Russian air defenses, and spoke of the bond he built with U.S. pilots in 2018 after a training accident killed an American and Ukrainian pilot. U.S. Air Force became the real brothers in arms for us, with blood on our soil, he told The Hill at the time. Russia claims that it has downed more than 450 Ukrainian airplanes, a number that draws a hearty laugh from members of Ukraines air force, who say the actual figure is far smaller. So perhaps then weve got some blue-collar guys who sit underground and make a big number of airplanes every month, Diakiv said to laughs in the group. Tiny little dwarfs or elves or hobbits who can fix anything. While Ukraine does not comment on its war losses, a senior U.S. official reportedly said in March that Kyiv has lost about 60 aircraft and downed about 70 Russian aircraft. Its unclear how many F-16s Ukraine is expected to receive. Denmark has committed to send 19. The Netherlands has a fleet of 42 F-16s but has not yet said how many it will send. And even as the F-16s are hotly anticipated, the planes are not expected to be a game-changer on the battlefield. Ukrainian and U.S. officials, as well as experts, say no weapons system on its own will bring Russia to the negotiating table, but rather that consistent commitments from the U.S. and other allies could eventually wear down the support surrounding Russian President Vladimir Putin in maintaining his war. I think youre always in a good place if you talk about capability requirements. Instead of talking about specific platforms or specific numbers, what is the capability that Ukraine needs? asked Ben Hodges, former commanding general of the United States Army Europe. And of course the capability they need for this counteroffensive is to help isolate Crimea and make it untenable for Russian forces, whether thats with jets, drones, ATACMs [long-range missiles] or whatever, thats the decisive part of this war, is Crimea, Hodges said. But key to Ukraines defense is giving the country the ability to close its skies. Expanding air defense over larger parts of the country where Russia continues to hit civilian infrastructure including homes and energy and water systems is viewed as critical for Ukraine to function as a country, keeping its citizens at home and working, and ensuring the safety of international investments and commerce. Blending a new fleet of F-16 fighter pilots with Western air defense systems is viewed as key to this strategy. Perhaps it is less important how many units of the weapons they provide for us, but how well we will be able to use the advantages provided by one or another system. Perhaps we need to combine them in the most rational way to accomplish closing our sky, Diakiv said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. After more than half the population of an ethnic Armenian enclave fled their homes in a mountainous pocket of land south of Russia, the breakaway republics leaders said it would soon cease to exist. In what amounted to a formal capitulation to Azerbaijan, which surrounds it, the Armenian leaders of Nagorno-Karabakh said the self-declared Republic of Artsakh would be dismantled by the end of the year. This would end three decades of intermittent conflict in and around the enclave, break a 10-month blockade of the region in the South Caucasus that residents said had starved them into submission, and dash hopes of an independent state in territory claimed by Azerbaijan. The dissolution of Nagorno-Karabakh as a breakaway state is a seminal point a rare supernova among the constellation of ethnic conflicts left by the implosion of the then-Soviet Union in the early 1990s. The conflicts abrupt halt reflects how the geopolitical reach of Russias invasion of Ukraine has forced realignments far beyond that war. In an official decree, the regions separatist President Samvel Shakhramanyan said that residents of Nagorno-Karabakh must now familiarize themselves with the conditions of reintegration into Azerbaijan and make an independent and individual decision about the possibility of staying (or returning) in Nagorno-Karabakh. Nagorno-Karabakh Ethnic Tensions (Wojtek Druszcz / AFP via Getty Images) The announcement came as around 70,000 of the enclaves population of about 120,000 fled from the region, which sits within Azerbaijans borders, to neighboring Armenia, according to Armenias government, with more still arriving. Many residents hauled what few personal belongings they could gather into packed cars, trucks, buses and tractors, some pockmarked with shrapnel after days of Azerbaijani attacks. Armenias leadership has accused Azerbaijan of instigating a refugee crisis by launching a swift invasion this week. Azerbaijan has denied allegations of ethnic cleansing, saying it is not forcing people to leave, and would peacefully reintegrate the region and guarantee rights of ethnic Armenians. Holding a wealth of monasteries, mosques and other religious sites, Nagorno-Karabakh is culturally significant for both Muslim Azeris and what was an overwhelming Christian Armenian population. Armenians in Azerbaijan have been victims of pogroms, while Azerbaijanis claim discrimination and violence at the hands of Armenians. Azerbaijan has won a comprehensive military victory and what were looking at now is the prospect of Nagorno-Karabakh without Armenians or with very few Armenians remaining, said Thomas de Waal, a senior fellow with the London-based Carnegie Europe think tank. So in that sense, Azerbaijan has won. Armenia on September 26, 2023, said 28,120 refugees have so far arrived from Nagorno-Karabakh, a majority ethnic Armenian breakaway enclave defeated in a lightning offensive by Azerbaijan last week. (Alain Jocard / AFP - Getty Images) For those fleeing, the despair of losing their homes was made worse by losing their homeland. Many of them are from villages which were taken by the Azerbaijani army, so they really lost their homes already, said Astrig Agopian, a French Armenian journalist who has been reporting this week on the refugee crisis from Armenias border. There is really this feeling that this time is different. Its another war, but its a war that is definitely lost this time. Were that the case, it would bring to an end decades of violence in the region, which has been at the center of geopolitical interests between Eastern and Western nations for centuries. The political dispute between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh began as the then-Soviet Union weakened in the late 1980s, and Armenians demanded that the majority-Armenian region be incorporated into the Armenian Soviet Socialist Republic. Some 42,500 people, or about 35% of Nagorno-Karabakh's ethnic Armenian population, had left for neighboring Armenia as of Wednesday morning, according to Armenian authorities. (Vasily Krestyaninov / AP) After the USSR collapsed in 1991, the conflict erupted into a full-scale war that persisted until a Russian-brokered peace deal in 1994. About 30,000 people were killed and more than a million people displaced. My husband died in the first war. He was 30, I was 26. Our children were 3 and 4 years old. It is the fourth war that I went through, Narine Shakaryan, a grandmother of four, told the Reuters news agency after she arrived in Armenia. My husband died back then, he was 30 in 1994. Thats the cursed life that we live. The fighting continued intermittently for several more decades, leaving an indelible mark on generations of Nagorno-Karabakhs ethnic Armenian residents. A recent war in 2020 saw the more powerful Azerbaijan, backed by Turkey, reclaim much of the land surrounding the area, as well as part of the region itself. Russia negotiated an end to that flare-up and even deployed peacekeepers to ensure security along the Lachin Corridor, the single mountain road that connected Armenia to Nagorno-Karabakh. But the events of the past year show how Moscow, which has historically played the role of both peacekeeper and ally to Armenia which shares its Christian roots and hosts a Russian military base has adjusted its allegiances following its invasion of Ukraine and its conflicts with the West. More than 65,000 Armenians have fled Nagorno-Karabakh for Armenia, Yerevan said on September 28, 2023, as the exodus continued from the breakaway enclave which Azerbaijan recaptured last week in a lighting offensive. (Alain Jocard / AFP - Getty Images) The pivotal factor was that Azerbaijan was talking separately to the Russians, and had a joint agenda with the Russians, to pressure Armenia and also to keep the West out of the Caucasus, de Waal said. This is why when the Azerbaijani assault happened, Russian peacekeepers who could have actually stopped it stood down. And then Russia failed to condemn the attack. After its invasion of Ukraine left Russia isolated, Moscow may feel it has more to gain from cozying up to Azerbaijan than Armenia, particularly after the latter made a public display of cozying up to the West and provided humanitarian aid to Kyiv. Earlier this month, the country conducted joint exercises with the U.S. military and the Armenian Parliament is set to vote next week on whether to accede to the International Criminal Court, which classifies Russian President Vladimir Putin as a war criminal a move the Kremlin characterized Thursday as extremely hostile. Inside Nagorno-Karabakh, Azerbaijans government has assured the regions Armenian population that they will be treated humanely and afforded equal rights. But after months of blockades and blistering fighting, few ethnic Armenians believe it and many feel they have no choice but to flee. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com A federal government shutdown could become reality this weekend, potentially affecting Pennsylvanians in a variety of ways. With lawmakers in Washington, D.C., unable to reach a consensus on spending, "nonessential" federal employees could be furloughed as early as next week. Many "essential" employees would be called to work without pay until an agreement is reached. Here are just a few things that will, and won't, be affected if Congress fails to make a deal. How does a government shutdown affect food stamps? The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, better known as SNAP and formerly referred to as food stamps, should continue for weeks at minimum. These benefits should be provided through at least October even in the event of a government shutdown, according to Abbie Malloy with First Focus on Children. Malloy, who serves as director of health, nutrition and environmental policy with her national organization, said a special program for mothers and young children could be affected much sooner. Best known as WIC, this benefit offers free fruits and vegetables to qualifying individuals. More than 6.3 million participate nationwide, Malloy said. "It's unbelievably important," she added. "It's a major lifeline for folks, especially kids that dont have access to healthy foods. Many families can't afford nutritious foods." Barry Ciccocioppo, communications director for the Pennsylvania Department of Health, said the 178,254 Pennsylvanians receiving food through WIC should expect continued benefits, at least in the short term. "We understand that the potential of a federal government shutdown leaves everyone who relies on these services uneasy," Ciccocioppo wrote in an email to the USA TODAY Network on Wednesday. "We received additional direction from the USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) late this afternoon that would allow WIC recipients to continue receiving benefits beyond the start of the new fiscal year." Government shutdown updates: Latest news on odds of a government shutdown. How it affects you How does a government shutdown affect food inspections? Though Food and Drug Administration inspections and other work of the U.S. Department of Agriculture would continue amid a shutdown, others would be halted. Pennsylvania Farm Bureau federal affairs specialist Bailey Thumm said mandatory furloughs would hit rural development offices, county agencies and other services related for rural America. Farm Service Agency loans and National Resources Conservation Service assistance for manure, water runoff and pest management could be halted. "We really need Congress to step up and make sure ag appropriations are passed," Thumm said, noting that the 2023 Farm Bill also has yet to be adopted. Pest management and other programs through the U.S. Department of Agriculture could be hindered by a looming federal government shutdown. How does a government shutdown affect schools? School districts should be OK amid a potential government shutdown. Susan Spicka, executive director for Education Voters of Pennsylvania, said 43% of school funding comes from state government, with most of the rest derived from local taxes and only a small amount coming from the federal government. "My sense is that there would not be any cash-flow issues for school districts right away," Spicka said, "if at all." How does a government shutdown affect national parks? The prospective shutdown would have some degree of impact on parks and recreation in Pennsylvania. As reported by USA TODAY, some previous shutdowns have led to national parks remaining open without staff to maintain them. Other shutdowns have resulted in national parks temporarily closing entirely. Wesley Robinson, press secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, confirmed that the commonwealth's state-run parks will be unaffected. In addition to the 19 federally managed national park service sites in Pennsylvania, there are 124 state-run parks. They comprise more than 300,000 acres. Bruce Siwy is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network's Pennsylvania state capital bureau. He can be reached at bsiwy@gannett.com or on Twitter at @BruceSiwy. This article originally appeared on York Daily Record: What happens if the government shuts down? Pennsylvania impact The Air Force routinely highlights the impressive mix of capabilities the F-15EX Eagle II fighter will offer, but is only planning to buy just over 100 of them. An important theme to come out of the Air & Space Forces Association's main annual symposium this year was the unique mix of capabilities the new F-15EX Eagle II fighter offers and how those attributes will be in very high demand. Air Force leadership constantly spotlighted what the F-15EX will bring to the table, especially in the context of a Pacific fight. The Eagle IIs are especially well-positioned to act as airborne controllers for future Collaborative Combat Aircraft and other drones , be launch platforms for hypersonic weapons and other large munitions , and provide new advanced electronic warfare capabilities . These roles are beyond its central counter-air focus and its task of helping to protect the U.S. homeland. What isn't being addressed is how the Air Force can hope to make the most of what the F-15EX has to offer with a planned fleet of just over 100 jets, many of which will be tasked primarily to perform the aforementioned homeland defense mission, especially in a time of major crisis or war. A picture Boeing released in August of the third F-15EX for the US Air Force in the final stages of construction. Boeing The War Zone previously explored the many pitfalls of a truncated Eagle II purchase in great detail when the Air Force said it would only buy around 80 of the jets. The Air Force currently plans to acquire 104 Eagle IIs in total, still down from an originally planned minimum fleet size of at least 144. As of the beginning of this month, the jet's manufacturer, Boeing, had delivered two of them and was putting the final touches on a third, which was expected to be turned over to its new owner before October 1. Following various delays , Boeing now says it hopes to have five more of these aircraft in Air Force hands by the end of the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2024, which ends on December 31 of this year. The Most Advanced F-15 Ever The F-15EX is the most advanced version of the F-15 ever produced and is the latest variant in the Eagle family, which is now more than 50 years old. The jet's current configuration includes the highly-capable AN/APG-82 active electronically-scanned array (AESA) radar and the powerful Eagle Passive/Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS) electronic warfare suite. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCVAxejUDMs The F-15EX is expected to be able to carry the vast majority of air-launched munitions currently in U.S. Air Force inventory. It has already demonstrated its ability to employ AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM), AIM-9X Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, and AGM-158 Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) cruise missiles as part of a recently completed initial round of operational testing and evaluation. A picture of a heavily laden F-15EX loaded with AIM-120s and AGM-158s during the initial round of operational test and evaluation. USAF "The F-15EX ... has an extremely long range and has a massive weapons carriage capability," Gen. Kenneth Wilsbach, head of Pacific Air Forces, the Air Force's top command in that region, told The War Zone and other outlets at a roundtable on the sidelines of the Air & Space Forces Association conference earlier this month. "Some of the weapons that you can't carry internally [on] a fifth-generation aircraft, you can put on the F-15EX." "That sort of gives you some incredibly long-range capability. Frankly, it can almost, not quite, but it can almost fill in where you might not have as many bombers as you'd like to have," he continued. "This thing can carry so much ordnance, it definitely is [sic] the capability to move ordnance around the airspace and employ that ordnance, much like you would with a bomber. So that's going to be quite effective." Open Architecture Focus On top of its current capabilities, the F-15EX has been designed from the start with a focus on open architecture mission systems specifically to help speed up the integration of new and improved functionality in the future. One day those software updates might even go out to the jets in the middle of a mission. Air Force Lt. Gen. Michael Loh, director of the Air National Gaurd, highlighted the open-architecture nature of the F-15EX and the potential for in-flight updating of its systems in the future as being especially notable capabilities that the Eagle II, among other platforms, offers at a separate media roundtable The War Zone attended at the Air & Space Forces Association conference. "When we look at that platform [the F-15EX], the outer mold line, yes, it looks a lot like you know, the 1980s. But what's inside is the sweet spot on that," Loh said. "When you look at data information, when you look at computing power , when you look at the ability to rapidly change this [platform's systems] that's probably the sweet spot." The cockpit of an older Advanced Eagle variant, a series of improved F-15 versions on which the EX is based. The single large digital display in the center is readily reconfigurable just for ease of use and to help simplify the integration of new and improved capabilities. Boeing "When you look at the pre-Block F-16s that were out there, we took over the flight program years ago, and so we were able to write our own code. We've partnered with industry to come in and do some operational upgrades ... and demonstrated the ability to do on-air reprogramming ," Loh added, offering a tangential example of what could also be in store for the F-15EX. "Now, when you look at the computing power [offered by] ... AI [artificial intelligence and] ML [machine learning] ... [the question] is now how can we rapidly reprogram our systems in order to get after a new threat?" "Imagine doing it in real time," he continued. "When I was an electronic combat pilot weapons officer, and I'm sitting there waiting for a tape to come out, [and] spending three months to reprogram, we're talking about on air. Not something where I have to land, download, analyze it, put something back out there, and then get it back out to the field. That's the goal." What Loh appears to be specifically describing here at the end is a concept called Cognitive Electronic Warfare, which the Air Force envisions as an important future capability for its new F-15EXs and existing F-15E Strike Eagles , as well as other platforms. You can read more about this concept in depth here . An F-15E Strike Eagle with the EPAWSS electronic warfare suite that is also found on the F-15EX. EPAWSS could be one of the systems through which Cognitive Electronic Warfare capability might be introduced to the F-15E and the F-15EX. USAF Drones And Hypersonic Weapons Boeing has long touted the F-15EX's mix of capabilities as being relevant to a wide variety of potential mission sets. At the Air Force Association's convention, Boeing representatives highlighted a number of expected forthcoming Air Force capabilities demonstrations that it feels the Eagle II is ideally suited to take part in. "The current F-15EX and its capability capacity fulfills the F-15E and C model role[s]," Matt Giese, Boeing's F-15 chief test pilot, who previously flew F-15s, as well as F-16s and F-22s, for the Air Force, also said at a Boeing press event at the Air & Space Forces Association conference Tuesday. "But probably more importantly, the capabilities allow us to do some more of the advanced missions, things like manned-unmanned teaming and hypersonics." "I don't have specifics on dates or what the exact plan is, but I do know there's a big push from the US Air Force to have some sort of manned-unmanned teaming demonstration," according to Giese. "The EX is a perfect platform to do that, based on its payload capacity, its connectivity, ... and the fact that we have a lot of gas, so we can stay airborne for a long time. ... I would think that the U.S. Air Force would go in a direction at some point to use the EX kind of an initial manned-unmanned teaming platform." Boeing concept art showing an F-15EX or related variant flying together with a pair of MQ-28 Ghost Bat drones. Ghost Bat is another Boeing product that was originally developed by the company's division Australia for the Royal Australian Air Force's Airpower Teaming System (ATS) program. Boeing Not mentioned here is the additional fact that the F-15EX has two fully equipped cockpits. This would allow the pilot in the front seat to remain focused on flying the aircraft and leave controlling drones to the back-seater. Two-seat F-15E Strike Eagles have already been used to support Air Force crewed-uncrewed teaming and autonomy experimentation , as can be seen in the video below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_xuVfA6bN3c The Air Force has already been conducting increasingly complex teaming experiments involving multiple different types of crewed and uncrewed aircraft in the past few years. The service has made clear that this work is leading into its Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program , which is seeking to acquire many hundreds , if not thousands of advanced drones with high degrees of autonomy. Initially, at least, the expectation is that those uncrewed aircraft will primarily work in close cooperation with crewed tactical combat jets, including the future sixth-generation stealthy combat jet being developed under the larger Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program and the F-35A Joint Strike Fighter . The Air Force is now looking at the possibility of greatly expanded roles and missions for its future CCA fleets, which will also be able to operate on their own. A rendering of a notional sixth-generation stealth combat jet flying together with three advanced drones. Collins Aerospace In addition, "the ability of the F-15[EX] to go high and fast, unlike any other platform in our [the U.S. Air Force's] inventory" makes it "the prime candidate" to support "some sort of hypersonic test program," Giese said. "I do know the Air Force is having discussions about that right now." The Air Force's current main line of effort in this regard, at least publicly, is the Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile (HACM) , a now-in-development air-breathing hypersonic cruise missile. The U.S. Navy is also pursuing an air-launched hypersonic cruise missile optimized for anti-ship use that could also be suitable for future integration onto the F-15EX. Air Force talking points about the service's 2022 Fiscal Year budget proposal more generally described the F-15EX as an outsized weapons truck" that could carry other future munitions that might be too big for other tactical combat jets to lug around, including an unspecified outsize air-to-air weapon, according to a past report from Air & Space Forces Magazine . The air-to-air weapon referenced here is not believed to be the highly classified AIM-260 air-to-air missile, which is expected to have a similar form factor to the AIM-120 to allow it to be carried internally by stealth fighters like the F-22 . The F-15 series already has a long history of being used to carry and employ a wide variety of different large payloads, not limited just to weapons. The Eagle family already has a demonstrated ability to serve as an aerial platform for launching various types of drones , including ambitions for hosting loyal wingman types . General Atomics notably included an F-15 variant in the background of a new rendering of its LongShot drone. That artwork was released along with the announcement on September 7 that the company had been selected to move to the final stage of the program and build a flying prototype. LongShot is a Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) effort that aims to produce a drone that can be armed with air-to-air missiles and be launched and then controlled by fighter and bomber-type aircraft in flight. GA-ASI Though the expected dimensions and weight of General Atomics' LongShot design are unknown at present, it seems very likely that it will be ideally paired with a tactical jet like the F-15EX with a heavier-than-usual load-carrying capacity. It would have to be carried externally, which would negate the stealthy characteristics of fighters like the F-22 and F-35, also making it more suitable to used in combination with something like the F-15EX. In addition, the LongShot offers the launching platform significantly extended air-to-air weapons engagement 'reach' and a huge boost in tactical flexibility, dramatically increasing the aircraft's survivability and lethality as a result. This could be highly valuable for non-stealthy aircraft and especially well suited for the Eagle II. Paired with all its other features, it could provide additional stark advantages even over 5th generation stealth fighters in the air-to-air fight. Focus On Homeland Defense If there is consensus among many in the Air Force about the potential breadth of capabilities the F-15EX can offer, it is not reflected in the service's current force structure plans for these jets. Of the six F-15EXs Boeing hopes to deliver by the end of 2023, four will join the Eagle II test force, and its two existing jets, at Edwards Air Force Base in California. The other two examples will head to Portland to join the Oregon Air National Guard. An Oregon Air National Guard F-15C Eagle. Tyler Rogoway "F-15EX is going to field to Portland, going to field to Fresno, and going to field to New Orleans," Air National Guard Director Lt. Gen. Loh reiterated during his roundtable at the Air Force Association's symposium. The Oregon Air National Guard's 142nd Wing in Portland has long been set to be the first operational unit equipped with F-15EX. The Air Force announced earlier this year that the California Air National Guard's 144th Fighter Wing in Fresno and the Louisiana Air National Guard's 159th Fighter Wing in New Orleans would also be getting Eagle IIs. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TftJM1zdlZE All three of these Air National Guard units are and will continue to be tasked with air-to-air centric missions, including the homeland defense commitment. The trio of units currently operates older F-15C/D Eagles. Three F-15Cs and a lone F-15EX fly in formation. USAF It is worth noting that the Oregon Air National Guard has another F-15C/D unit, the 173rd Fighter Wing, which is currently the schoolhouse unit for the F-15C/D Eagle. The plan now is to convert this wing into an F-35A Joint Strike Fighter training unit and fold F-15EX training in with the existing pipeline for the F-15E Strike Eagle. The size of the F-15E fleet, which is more focused as a community on conducting strike missions and is in extremely high demand , is also set to be slashed by more than half in the coming years. "We've had an enterprise of F-15Cs [and Ds] and F-15Es, and we're emerging with F-15EX," Gen. Mark Kelly, head of the Air Force's Air Combat Command (ACC), explained earlier this month. "That [old multi-part] enterprise will merge into kind of one singular F-15 enterprise, whether it be from a formal training unit/ weapons school /test enterprise, as the oldest F-15C's [retire]." From right to left, an F-15C Eagle, an F-15EX Strike Eagle, and an F-15EX Eagle II. USAF ACC oversees the bulk of the Air Force's active-duty tactical combat jets, among other fleets. Kelly was speaking at another roundtable for media, including The War Zone, at the Air & Space Forces Association conference. The Air Force's stated plan currently is to replace all of its remaining older Eagles by 2026 with a mixture of F-15EXs and F-35As . A redacted Pentagon Selected Acquisition Report (SAR) on the F-15EX, dated December 2022, which was just recently released , says the hope at that time was that the Air Force would reach Initial Operational Capability with the type by the end of this month. This seems unlikely to happen now given that a key stipulation for the IOC declaration is having eight jets on hand, but could still happen by the end of the year if Boeing holds to its current delivery schedule. The program's "baseline" requirements say that this milestone should be achieved no later than July 2024. The SAR also says that the goal is for the Air Force to reach Full Operational Capability (FOC) with the F-15EX sometime between 2026 and 2027, after the service has received 44 Eagle IIs and various ancillary equipment. Just A Pocket Fleet A more comprehensive picture of the Air Force's planned F-15EX fleet and how it will be distributed has emerged this year. It is known that the three Air National Guard units that will be equipped with the type are set to receive 18 jets each. At least some of the six test jets are likely to remain in that capacity and a number of additional jets will be required to support the merged F-15E/EX training enterprise. Still, this still leaves the Air Force's plans for roughly two squadrons worth of Eagle IIs unknown. Air National Guard head Lt. Gen. Loh did not indicate he was currently expecting to see any more Eagle II units on his end when asked about this possibility this at the AFA symposium. One option would be for the balance of the planned F-15EX acquisitions to head out to the Pacific to join Gen. Wilsbach's PACAF. That command is in the process of losing two squadrons of F-15Cs, which had been forward-based at Kadena Air Base in Japan, and no replacement plans have been disclosed so far. Instead, smaller contingents of fighters from across the USAF will forward deploy to Kadena on a rotational basis to back-fill the F-15C/D's contingency and alert mission. Considering how stretched the USAF's shrinking fighter force is, this is a big resource drain. A file photo of a pair of Kadena-based F-15Cs. USAF As already noted, Wilsbach has been a particular advocate for the F-15EX. He regularly touts how its capabilities could be useful in the Pacific, especially in a potential future high-end conflict against China, just as he did this week . Even if PACAF, or any other Air Force command focused on missions outside of homeland defense, does get the remaining unassigned F-15EXs, questions persist about whether the service will be able to make the best use of what they have to offer. Particularly in the context of a potential future high-end against China, the Eagle II fleet would amount to dozens of jets in a battlespace with thousands of friendly aircraft, crewed and uncrewed , and at least a similar number on the opposing side . Even with their generous endurance, just dozens of Eagle IIs cannot be everywhere at once, especially in a particularly broader theater of operations like the Pacific. At the Air & Space Forces Association conference, PACAF's Gen. Wilsbach and other Air Force officials repeatedly highlighted this reality and the resulting need for what the service is calling "affordable mass" to meet this challenge. This is a key driver behind the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. The Air Force already wants at least 1,000 of these drones to team with its future sixth-generation crewed Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) combat jets and fifth-generation F-35As. However, it is already looking at a much larger total fleet size and expanded roles and missions, including ones outside of the tactical air combat arena. GA-ASI This all certainly re-raises many of the same cost/benefit and other questions The War Zone explored in depth when it appeared that the Air Force was only going to purchase 80 Eagle IIs. There remains the potential for more active blending of the F-15EXs in some way with the existing F-15E Strike Eagle fleet and its mission sets. There had been talk for a time about outright replacing all of the F-15Es with EXs. This could also help reduce the operational strain on the latter and would not necessarily be a major problem training-wise given the current plans to combine the E and EX pipelines. An F-15E Strike Eagle. USAF "I think all of the training stuff is still to be determined. Like they're still talking about it and what they're going to do and how they're going to approach it," Matt Giese, Boeing's top F-15 test pilot, said at the company's press event this week in response to a question about the Air Force's training plans. "The syllabus for the [F-15]E ... is in several stages. The first stage is what we call the contact phase, where just want to [have pilots] fly the jet. That's transferable between the [F-15]EX and E." "The second phase, which is really the air-to-air phase, ... that is transferable, too," he continued. "You just might do more of something than you would [for one of the other jet], you know, going and dropping bombs in the range. ... A lot of what the EX will do from the air-to-air side, we already do." Giese added that he felt the latter phases of the training could be reasonably prioritized around one mission set or another and that any issues arising from specific differences between the E and EX's hardware could be mitigated by using simulators on the ground. Of course, none of this changes what also stands to be lost by the Air Force's separate plans to cut the F-15E fleet, which could see it divesting 119 of its 218 Strike Eagles by the 2028 Fiscal Year. Adding 104 F-15EXs to the mix doesn't make up the difference, and the 104 jets are supposed to replace F-15C/Ds at non-Strike Eagle units. As already noted, the Strike Eagles are some of the service's most in-demand aircraft due to the same kinds of speed, range, and payload benefits that the Eagle II is only set to build upon. 70 F-15E Strike Eagles take part in a large-scale readiness exercise, or 'Elephant Walk," at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in North Carolina in 2012. USAF A Coming Debate Though he would not speak directly about additional Air National Guard F-15EX units at this year's Air & Space Forces Association conference, Lt. Gen. Loh did indicate he thought Eagle II's future with the Air Force was not necessarily settled and that the final fleet size could increase beyond 104 aircraft. "When you look at the fighters that are in production right now, in the United States, you have the F-35, and you have the F-15EX, and you still have F-16s for foreign militaries . So, those are the three that are currently in production," he said. "When you look at the [U.S.] National Defense Strategy, and ... the defense ecosystem, would you put another fighter in production? ... So I think that's the debate that's going to go on now." A picture of the first F-15EX under construction in 2020. USAF Loh brought up that Boeing is planning to shutter production of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet in 2025. On top of that, the Air Force is currently only planning to acquire 200 of the future sixth-generation NGAD combat jets, and each one is expected to be immensely expensive . The War Zone has raised the possibility in the past that this sixth-generation 'fighter' may be the last newly designed crewed tactical combat jet the Air Force ever buys. There is still the matter of competing interests between spending to acquire more fifth-generation combat jets, like the F-35, and advanced fourth-generation ones like the F-15EX. After what was originally referred to just as the F-15X first emerged back in 2018, which The War Zone was first to report on in detail, Air Force officials repeatedly stressed that it was complementary to the F-35 and not a competitor budget-wise. Two F-35A Joint Strike Fighters fly with a trio of F-15C Eagles. USAF This calculus has all further changed in the past few years with the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program , which could breathe whole new levels of capabilities and life into 4th generation fighters. What this all means, of course, is that if the Air Force does decide to expand its crewed tactical jet fleets, it will have limited options and fewer still that are cost-effective to purchase on any appreciable scale. Given the service's stated requirements and capability demands, there remains a possibility that it could circle back around to F-15EX. If it doesn't, questions are very likely to persist about the long-term future of the 104 it expects to buy now. Boeing is certainly hoping to keep the F-15EX, or variants and derivatives thereof, in production for the foreseeable future. In August, Indonesia made a formal commitment to buy 24 F-15IDs , derivatives of the F-15EX, and Poland has an interest in purchasing some number of Eagle IIs. Long-time F-15 operator Israel has often come up in discussions about F-15EX exports in the past. The global F-15 community otherwise continues to be robust with major operators in Asia (Japan, Singapore, and South Korea) and the Middle East (Saudi Arabia and Qatar, in addition to Israel). The Saudis and Qataris are already flying some of the most advanced Eagles outside of the United States. The F-15EX was derived directly from the F-15QA for Qatar . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mpeVdlDkKVQ Japan is in the process of upgrading a portion of its F-15J fleet to what is currently referred to as the Japan Super Interceptor (JSI) configuration. JSI will include a number of the same features as the EX, including the AN/APG-82 radar and EPAWSS electronic warfare system. South Korea is modernizing its F-15Ks , too. At least currently, when it comes to the Air Force's F-15EX plans, it is hard not to see a disconnect between how the service presents the value of its future Eagle IIs and what such a small fleet of tactical jets will actually be able to offer. This is especially true in a time of conflict when many of the Eagle IIs will be needed to protect the homeland and a portion of the fleet will be down for maintenance, as is normal at any given time. This would likely leave around half of the 104 F-15EX fleet, give or take, available for deployment. That's not a lot of capacity for so many missions the jet is supposedly uniquely capable of executing over what could be the largest theater of operations since WWII. As such, either more Eagle IIs will need to be procured or expectations as to what their mission set will comprise of will need to be severely tempered. Contact the author: joe@thedrive.com Claim: As of late September 2023, the Berlin government was "offering children a pro-prostitution picture book" to teach them about sex work. Rating: Rating: Mixture What's True: Before Sept. 26, 2023, the Berlin government's official website listed a children's book titled "Rosi sucht Geld" as a recommended resource. The book is about sex work, features hand-drawn illustrations, and says its intended audience is aged 6 to 12. What's False: However, Berlin officials didn't "offer" the text to children, nor make it available to the public in anyway. Also, as of Sept. 26, 2023, the book no longer appeared on the site, and the government issued a statement stressing that adults could decide whether to show children the book. In September 2023, a rumor spread online that the Berlin government was offering children a "pro-prostitution picture book" to teach them about sex work. The Berlin government is offering children a pro-prostitution picture book intended to teach them that the sex trade is safe and enjoyable. "Rosie Needs Money," which is written from the perspective of a little girl, is targeted at children aged 6-12.https://t.co/r5FlkE0kGW REDUXX (@ReduxxMag) September 25, 2023 The claim picked up steam after it was mentioned on the feminist German-language podcast, "Die Podcastin," featuring Isabel Rohner and Regula Staempfli. The children's book about sex work exists, and it's true that the official website for Berlin's government once listed it as a recommended resource. However, Berlin officials didn't "offer" the text to children, nor make it available to the public in anyway. Also, as of this writing, the book no longer appeared on the Berlin government's website. For those reasons, we have rated this claim a "Mixture" of accurate and misleading information. The book was written in German and titled "Rosi sucht Geld," which translates to "Rosi Looks For Money" or "Rosi Needs Money" in English. It was published in 2013 as part of a city-sponsored initiative to crowdsource ideas from the public on how to teach children about sex work, according to the Berlin government. The contents of the book are for children aged 6 to 12, according to the book's description. That said, in its opening pages, "Rosi sucht Geld" raises the question, "How do I tell my child?" That question implies the text is for parents seeking help teaching children about sex work, which is legal in Germany. In late September 2023, after the podcast's mention of the book and social media attention that followed, the Berlin government issued a statement stressing parents' agency in showing the book to children. That statement read (translated from German to English): There has been no response to the book for 10 years, even though it was actively promoted after its publication. It was issued exclusively to adults, who decided for themselves how and whether they wanted to use it. The book attempts to provide a guide for parents who are faced with the question of how to explain to their children why there are sex workers on Kurfurstenstrasse (and elsewhere in the city). Families who live in the Kurfurstenkiez asked the Mitte district office what they should say to their children. Many felt overwhelmed by this. Therefore, a local working group decided in 2012 to develop the book as part of a funding project. For this purpose, an artist was recruited who knew the area well and had experience in artistic work with children. Retrospectively, however, it must be stated that this handout did not achieve any of the expected results and adults did not use the book. Therefore it will be removed from the website, the website will be revised and aligned with today's needs. As of Sept. 26, 2023, the Berlin government's website no longer listed the book. However, via Wayback Machine (an internet archiving site), we found the book was displayed on the website as far bask as 2017, and as recently as Sept. 23, 2023. It's unclear when, exactly, the book was removed the site, and if, or to what extent, the attention on the book in 2023 played a role in its removal. We reached out to the Berlin Press Office to inquire about the government's rationale for removing "Rosi sucht Geld" from its site, and the office referred us to the above-mentioned, publicly available statement. The Contents of "Rosi sucht Geld" Snopes obtained a copy of "Rosi sucht Geld." The book begins (all transcriptions from the book were translated from German to English): Pictures and thoughts about sex work A community book with pictures and texts created by people from Tiergarten-Sud 2011 2012 in the "Social City" project: How do I tell my child? The book tells a story of two child friends, Maryam and Martin, and Rosi, who is a a sex worker. Maryam lives on Kurfurstenstrasse, a street in Berlin famous for sex work: When I look out the window at home, I see the square and women like Rosi on the street. They're looking for money, my mom always says. But they don't seem to find much money. Their clothes are not enough. Their breasts and legs must freeze in winter. The book continues by explaining Rosi's work routine: Rosi is working again. She is also one of the women on the street. She calls it work when she leaves in a car. Always men are sitting in the car. Some in a Mercedes, some in a Polo. Some have gray suits, others have jeans. (Rosi sucht Geld book) Then, the characters Martin and Maryam have this conversation: But today we decided to finally ask Rosi what she does with men. Actually, we already know. They give her money and want to make love. 'But is that 'love'?' I ask Martin. 'It's different from what mom and dad do. Mom makes love with dad, but men don't make love with Rosi, they make sex like on TV.' 'But Martin, what is sex? Something like 'making love' without love is nonsense.' 'I don't know, Maryam. Here comes Rosi. I'll ask her right away.' (Rosi sucht Geld book) Later on, Rosi explains to the children her perspective on the difference between "love" and "sex": 'You want to know what this has to do with love and sex? What do you think? Everyone acts as if love and sex were always the same. Men say this to me and to their wives at home. But sometimes love is gone. Or the sex. That's why my customers just want to talk to me and they give me money in return.' "'What can I tell you? Most of the time it's like this: men want to put their pen*s in my vagina. A few times in and a few times out - and you're done. There's nothing more to it than that.' Then, Maryam and Martin discover that Rosi left Kurfurstenstrasse to return to her home in Bulgaria. That's where her children live with their grandma. She did sex work in Berlin to afford their food. After that story about Rosi, the book shares seemingly real statements from Berlin residents and sex workers, such as: 'I have no direct connection to prostitution I'm more of an outsider. It seems like a different world to me. I don't want to be in a situation where I have to sell my body for money.' Sources: BLZ. "Prostitution im Kinderbuch "Rosi sucht Geld" So reagiert der Bezirk Mitte." Berliner Zeitung, 27 Sept. 2023, https://www.berliner-zeitung.de/news/prostitution-im-kinderbuch-rosi-sucht-geld-berlin-rudert-zurueck-li.435530. Kinderbuch "Rosi sucht Geld" von 2013. 26 Sept. 2023, https://www.berlin.de/ba-mitte/aktuelles/pressemitteilungen/2023/pressemitteilung.1369807.php. "Prostitution auf der Kurfurstenstrae in Berlin: Vom Drogenstrich zum Armutsstrich." Berliner Zeitung, 1 Aug. 2014, https://www.berliner-zeitung.de/mensch-metropole/prostitution-auf-der-kurfuerstenstrasse-in-berlin-vom-drogenstrich-zum-armutsstrich-li.8885. Seven Republican presidential candidates participated in a debate Wednesday night in California, while the front-runner in the party primary, former President Donald Trump , skipped the debate and instead gave a speech in Michigan amid a strike by autoworkers. The candidates on the debate stage made false or misleading claims about a variety of subjects including the border wall, Floridas education curriculum, the economy and the war in Ukraine. CNN is fact-checking both events. Christie vs. Pence on the border wall Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie said that Trump said he was going to build a wall across the whole border but actually built 52 miles of wall. Later in the debate, former Vice President Mike Pence used a much different figure, saying that we built hundreds of miles of border wall. Facts First: This needs context. Both candidates claims are defensible; Christie, though, didnt explain that he was talking only about barriers that were erected in spots on the southern border where there had not been any barriers before. If you count all of the barriers built on the southern border under Trump, as Trump and Pence do, then the total is much higher more than 450 miles. Here are the facts. When Christie says only 52 miles of wall were built under Trump, he is referring solely to one category of wall construction primary wall that was built in parts of the border where no barriers previously existed. When Pence puts the figure in the hundreds of miles, he is referring to all wall construction during the Trump-Pence administration. The total number is 458 miles, according to a federal report obtained by CNNs Priscilla Alvarez: 52 miles of primary wall built where no barriers previously existed, plus 33 miles of secondary wall that was built in spots where no barriers previously existed, plus another 373 miles of primary and secondary wall that was built to replace previous barriers the federal government says had become dilapidated and/or outdated. While some Trump critics have scoffed at this replacement wall, the Trump-era construction was generally much more formidable than the older barriers it replaced, which were often designed to deter vehicles rather than people on foot. Washington Post reporter Nick Miroff tweeted in 2020: As someone who has spent a lot of time lately in the shadow of the border wall, I need to puncture this notion that replacement sections are not new. There is really no comparison between vehicle barriers made from old rail ties and 30-foot bollards. Ideally, Trump, Pence and their critics would all be clearer about what they are talking about: Trump and Pence that they are including replacement barriers, critics that they are excluding those barriers. From CNNs Daniel Dale DeSantis on Floridas Black history curriculum Moderator Ilia Calderon asked Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to address the descendants of enslaved people regarding his states new standards on how to teach Black history in schools. Calderon: Floridas new Black history curriculum says, slaves developed skills, which in some instances, could be applied for their personal benefit. You have said slaves developed skills in spite of slavery, not because of it. But many are still hurt. For descendants of slaves, this is personal. What is your message to them? DeSantis: First of all, thats a hoax that was perpetuated by Kamala Harris. We are not going to be doing that. Second of all, that was written by descendants of slaves, these are great Black history scholars, so we need to stop playing these games, DeSantis said. Facts First: DeSantis claim is false. Floridas new standards for teaching Black history do include the clause that Calderon read out. In July, the Florida Board of Education approved a new set of standards for how Black history should be taught in the states public schools. The standards for middle schoolers include a benchmark that says, Instruction includes how slaves developed skills which, in some instances, could be applied for their personal benefit. When asked about the benchmark in July, DeSantis told CNN he wasnt involved. Instead, just as he did in his response tonight, he deferred to those who wrote the education standards. You should talk to them about it. I didnt do it. I wasnt involved in it, DeSantis said at the time. Pressed further at the time, he said: I think that theyre probably going to show some of the folks that eventually parlayed, you know, being a blacksmith into, into doing things later in life. But the reality is, all of that is rooted in whatever is factual. They listed everything out. And if you have any questions about it, just ask the Department of Education. DeSantis has argued that it is unfair to depict the standards as broadly pro-slavery, saying that they are clear and detailed about the evils of slavery. The new standards have been criticized by civil rights advocates and Black lawmakers. Vice President Kamala Harris also criticized the new standards, saying in a speech in July they decided middle school students will be taught that enslaved people benefited from slavery. From CNNs Chandelis Duster Haley on DeSantis fracking record Haley and DeSantis went back and forth on fracking, with the former South Carolina governor claiming DeSantis banned fracking on his second day in office. Ron DeSantis is against fracking. Hes against drilling. He always talks about what happens on day one. You better watch out because what happens on day two is when you are in trouble. Day two in Florida, you banned fracking. You banned off-shore drilling, Haley said. That is not true, DeSantis retorted, suggesting the ban on off-shore drilling came from a state constitutional amendment. Facts First: Haley is largely right. DeSantis did not unilaterally ban fracking before the constitutional amendment passed, but an executive order signed just days after he took office as governor of Florida calls for the state to adamantly oppose all off-shore oil and gas activities off every coast in Florida and hydraulic fracturing in Florida. And aside from the semantics, Haleys broader argument about DeSantis position on off-shore drilling and fracking is supported by his comments and actions. During DeSantis 2018 gubernatorial campaign, he was asked if he supported a ban on fracking and he emphatically said yes. In January 2020, he also oversaw the purchase of 20,000 acres of Everglades wetlands by the state of Florida to permanently protect them from oil drilling, which wasnt prompted by the constitutional amendment in any way. From CNNs Tara Subramaniam Pence on immigration Mike Pence, speaking of the Trump-Pence administration, claimed that we reduced illegal immigration and asylum abuse by 90%. Facts First: This is misleading. The total number of Border Patrol apprehensions, which is widely used as a proxy for illegal immigration, was actually higher during Trump and Pences four years in office than it was in the final four years of the Obama administration, largely because of a major spike in early 2019. So where did Pence get the supposed 90% reduction? He didnt explain and didnt explain what he meant by asylum abuse but other fact-checkers, such as those at PolitiFact and The Washington Post, have found that you can find a roughly 90% drop in apprehensions if you compare the month with the highest Trump-era number of apprehensions, May 2019, to the month with the lowest Trump-era number, April 2020 in other words, by cherry-picking the most advantageous start and end dates. The Trump-Pence re-election campaign did similar cherry-picking in a television ad in 2019, claiming Trump had cut illegal immigration in half. Small print in the ad made clear that the campaign, too, had started the clock in May 2019 rather than from the beginning of the administration. CNN asked Pences campaign two days before the September debate to explain the math behind this claim. The campaign did not respond. From CNNs Daniel Dale Pence on Bidenomics Former Vice President Mike Pence slammed President Joe Biden s economic policies. Bidenomics has failed. Wages are not keeping up with inflation, said Pence, referring to the presidents economic plan. Facts First: While there are several ways to measure inflation and wages, at least two indicators show that Pences specific claim about wages is no longer true though it was accurate for much of Bidens presidency. In June, for the first time in 26 months, US workers real average weekly earnings grew on an annual basis by 0.7%, according to a Bureau of Labor Statistics report, which looks at inflation-adjusted earnings. That growth slowed but remained positive in August, at 0.3%, the most recent data available, meaning that wages continued to outpace inflation. Likewise, the bureaus Employment Cost Index showed that inflation-adjusted wages and salaries for private industry workers increased 1.7% for the 12 months ending June 2023, the most recent data available. The quarterly index tracks changes in employers labor costs for wages and salaries but is not subject to the same distortions as other measures, such as average hourly earnings, because it keeps the composition of the workforce constant. From CNNs Tami Luhby Scott on Hispanic chief of staff Sen. Tim Scott claimed that his chief of staff is the only Hispanic female chief of staff in the Senate. Facts First: This is false. A number of senators have hired a Hispanic woman to be their chief of staff over the years, and at least three Hispanic women hold that title in the current Senate. In addition to Scotts chief of staff, Neri Martinez, New Mexico Democratic Sen. Martin Heinrich announced in 2019 that he had hired Rebecca Avitia to lead his staff. And New Jersey Democratic Sen. Cory Booker hired Veronica Duron in 2021 to oversee his office. From CNNs Devan Cole Scott on tax cuts for families Asked about how he would address high child care costs in the US, Scott said he would lower Americans taxes. He pointed to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the 2017 Republican tax package that he said he helped write. We actually lowered a single mothers taxes by 70% on the federal level and for dual-income households by 60%, he said. Then we went a step further. We doubled the child tax credit and made it refundable. By doing that, more parents had more resources to make the decisions on how to take care of their family. Facts First: Scott greatly exaggerated the tax cuts for single mothers and married couples, and his comments on the child tax credit changes need context. Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the average federal tax reduction for single parents was $1,010, a change of less than 14%, according to Elaine Maag, a senior fellow at the nonpartisan Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center. Families in certain income brackets saw larger declines in their tax levies. For instance, those earning between $30,000 and $40,000 annually saw their taxes drop by an average of almost 57%. For married couples, the average tax cut was $3,350, or 9.2%, Maag said. Those with incomes between $10,000 and $20,000 received an average tax cut of 58%, while those earning between $20,000 and $30,000 saw their taxes decline by an average of 56%. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act did double the child tax credit to $2,000 temporarily. But it has been partially refundable since 2001. The 2017 tax package temporarily increased the refundability, allowing more low-income families to receive a larger credit. The Democrats American Rescue Plan Act, which passed Congress in 2021, made the child tax credit fully refundable for one year. From CNNs Tami Luhby Christie on Bidens response to a Russian invasion in Ukraine During a discussion about the Russian war in Ukraine, Christie falsely claimed Biden said, a small invasion wouldnt be so bad. Facts First: This is misleading. Shortly before the war, Biden caught some flak for drawing a distinction between a full-scale invasion and a minor incursion. But he never said it would be acceptable or not so bad. In January 2022, Biden said: Its one thing if its a minor incursion, and we end up having to fight about what to do and not do. But if they actually do what theyre capable of doing with the forces amassed on the border, it is going to be a disaster for Russia if they further invade Ukraine. CNN reported at the time that Ukrainian officials were aghast by Bidens suggestion that the US might respond less aggressively to a minor incursion by Russian forces. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky even rebuked Biden, saying, there are no minor incursions. But Christies retelling of the diplomatic dustup wasnt quite accurate. Biden never said that a small invasion (or a minor incursion) wouldnt be so bad. Moments later during Bidens same press conference in 2022, he said Russian President Vladimir Putin would pay a serious and dear price if there are Russian forces crossing the border, killing Ukrainian fighters. Biden continued to clean up his comments in the subsequent days, amid the prelude to the Russian invasion. From CNNs Marshall Cohen Pence on energy independence Pence claimed that one of the signature accomplishments of our administration was in just a few short years, we achieved energy independence. We became a net exporter of energy for the first time in 75 years, he added. But on day one, Joe Biden declared a war on energy. Facts First: This is misleading on a few counts. During brief periods prior to Trumps presidency, the US exported more oil, gas and petroleum products than it imported. While 2019 did mark the first full year the country did so, that trend has continued through the Biden administration in 2021 and 2022. And by at least one measure, energy independence is actually at a record high under Biden. Its misleading for Pence to suggest Biden declared a war on energy as US energy production continues to boom under his administration, contrary to frequent Republican claims. According to the Energy Information Administration, in 2022, US total energy exports were the highest on record, and also exceeded total energy imports by the largest margin on record. Domestic crude production in the first six months of 2023, the most recent data that is currently available, was the highest on record for the first six months of a year, and US crude oil production in 2022 was the second-highest on record, behind only Trump-era 2019. Natural gas production in the US has also continued to surge under Biden. US production of dry natural gas set a new record in 2022 and even outpaced 2022 levels in the first five months of 2023. Additionally, its worth noting that energy independence is a political phrase, not a literal phrase, and its one that energy industry experts call ridiculous. Under Trump, the US still relied on imports of foreign oil and gas even though it met some of the common political definitions of energy independence and the US continues to meet those definitions of energy independence under Biden. According to the EIA, net US energy exports increased from 3.48 quadrillion British thermal unit (Btus) or quads in 2019 to 3.62 quads in 2021, Bidens first year in office. In 2022, US net energy exports set a new record at 5.94 quads, and the US produced 3.3% more energy than it consumed. From CNNs Tara Subramaniam Trumps baseless claim During his speech, Trump accused President Joe Biden of personally taking money from foreign nations, hand over fist. Look at the money he got from China. Look at whats coming out. China. Facts First: There is no public evidence that Joe Biden himself made any money from foreign deals in China or elsewhere. That being said, Hunter Biden, the presidents son, did earn millions of dollars from business deals in China, Ukraine, and other countries, including while his father was vice president, raising conflict-of-interest issues. This has been one of the most persistent unproven claims from Trump and the congressional Republicans pushing for Joe Bidens impeachment. Trump may have been reacting to new disclosures from House Republicans, who said Tuesday that they received documentation of wire transfers where Hunter Biden listed his fathers address in Wilmington, Delaware, when receiving payments from Chinese nationals. However, the files dont prove that Joe Biden received any money and Hunter Biden has lived at times at his fathers home, and listed the address on his drivers license, according to previous CNN reporting. From CNNs Marshall Cohen Trump on Biden, Michigan and wheat Trump scoffed at Bidens Tuesday visit to a United Auto Workers picket line in Michigan and claiming during his speech on Wednesday that Biden had absolutely no idea what he was saying and didnt know where he was. Trump mockingly claimed that Biden said, They grow wheat in Michigan. Trump then added, Thats Iowa. Facts First: Trumps claim is false in two ways. Biden did not make any comments on Tuesday about Michigan growing wheat and Michigan actually does grow wheat, significantly more than Iowa. Iowa was a leader in wheat farming in the 19th century. This is not the first time Trump has made a false claim about Biden while professing to be describing Bidens own confusion. In an interview on NBC earlier in September, he falsely claimed that Biden had claimed he flew airplanes, though Biden did not. From CNNs Daniel Dale For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Immigration was among the topics repeatedly discussed during the second Republican presidential primary debate, where seven GOP hopefuls presented their ideas to voters, attacked each other and fired a few barbs at former President Donald Trump , who leads in polls among Republican voters but has not participated in the debates. Immigration is one of the issues that matters most to Republicans in this electoral cycle: 77% of them consider this a very important issue, according to a recent survey by The Economist magazine and YouGov. During the debate, the candidates threw out some misleading numbers and made false accusations, including associating the fentanyl crisis with "open" borders and increased migration. Here are some of the candidates' claims, which we fact-checked. Claim: Fentanyl crisis comes from 'open border' Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina criticized the Biden administration for allowing the entry of migrants and assured that the southern border is insecure and is wide open, which caused the deaths of 70,000 Americans in the last 12 months because of fentanyl. Associating the entry of fentanyl with the arrival of migrants is a false idea that Republicans have repeated again and again in recent months. Although the amount of fentanyl and other drugs entering the southern border has increased in recent years, experts and federal agencies have explained that the drugs mainly arrive through authorized ports of entry in private vehicles. Our research tells us that the vast majority of fentanyl reaches ports of entry, particularly California and Arizona, Anne Milgram, administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration, said during a congressional hearing. Only 0.02% of people arrested by the Border Patrol for crossing the border illegally possessed fentanyl, according to data analyzed by the Cato Institute in 2022. On the other hand, it is also not true that the southern border is "wide open," as Scott claimed. Although the arrival of undocumented migrants has increased in recent months August recorded the highest monthly number of migrant arrests by the Border Patrol so far in 2023 there are about 20,000 Border Patrol agents guarding the border with Mexico, which is also monitored by cameras, drones and other technology not to mention more than 700 miles of border protected by a wall and other barriers, In addition, the new policies established by the Biden administration after Title 42 expired in May seek to make it more difficult to request asylum at the border between the U.S. and Mexico and encourage migrants to apply from their countries of origin. How many miles of border wall did Trump build? Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie said Trump built 52 miles of wall during his presidency. This information is correct, but needs some context. Although Trump promised his voters that he would build a big border wall and that he would force Mexico to pay for it, the truth is that only 52 miles of new primary wall were built during the four years of his administration, according to a Customs and Border Protection document accessed by the verification site PolitiFact. As of Jan. 8, 2021, just two weeks before Trump left office, his administration had built 47 miles of primary wall, according to a CBP report. According to that report, the Trump administration also had replaced 351 miles of primary wall and 22 miles of secondary barriers that were in poor condition or had outdated designs. The United States border with Mexico extends more than 2,000 miles. When Trump finished his four years in the White House, there were a total of 706 miles of primary barriers along the border and 70 miles of secondary barriers, according to PolitiFact. Claim: Trump reduced illegal immigration by 90% Former Vice President Mike Pence said during the debate that the Trump administration reduced illegal immigration and asylum abuse by 90%. It's not the first time that Pence has stated this figure, but his statement is false, according to PolitiFact, which could not find evidence to directly support it. Experts who spoke with PolitiFact explained that although the Trump administrations policies, such as the Remain in Mexico program, possibly contributed to a decrease in immigration, this was not the only factor at play. The Covid-19 pandemic caused migration to fall sharply in 2020, and one figure that is close to the 90% drop that Pence pointed out occurred in May 2019, the month with the highest number of apprehensions during the Trump administration, and in April 2020, the month with the lowest enforcement actions during 2020, PolitiFact reported. After that point, immigrant arrivals rose again. So much so that, according to the PolitiFact analysis, Trumps last full month in office, December 2020, saw a 300% increase over February 2017, the first full month of his administration. An earlier version of this story was first published in Noticias Telemundo. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com (Reuters) - The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday opens a new nine-month term loaded with important cases on issues including gun rights, the power of federal agencies, the legality of Republican-drawn electoral districts, social media regulation, Purdue Pharma's bankruptcy settlement and even one involving the size of Donald Trump 's hands. Here is a look at some of the cases the justices are due to decide. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE GUN CURBS Another major gun rights dispute is coming to the justices as they are poised to decide whether a 1994 federal law that bars people under domestic violence restraining orders from possessing firearms violates the U.S. Constitution's Second Amendment. President Joe Biden 's administration appealed a lower court's ruling that the law ran afoul of the Second Amendment's "right to keep and bear arms" because it fell outside "our nation's historical tradition of firearm regulation." A challenge to the law was filed by a Texas man charged with illegal gun possession while subject to a domestic violence restraining order after assaulting his girlfriend. Arguments are scheduled for Nov. 7. SOUTH CAROLINA ELECTORAL MAP The justices are due to hear a bid by South Carolina officials to revive a Republican-crafted voting map that a lower court concluded had unconstitutionally "exiled" 30,000 Black voters from a closely contested U.S. House of Representatives district. South Carolina officials appealed a federal judicial panel's ruling that the map deliberately split up Black neighborhoods in Charleston County in a "stark racial gerrymander" and must be redrawn. Gerrymandering involves the manipulation of electoral district boundaries to marginalize a certain set of voters and increase the influence of others. Arguments are scheduled for Oct. 11. CONSUMER WATCHDOG AGENCY'S FUNDING The court is set to decide whether the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's funding structure established by Congress violates the Constitution in a case that the Biden administration has said threatens the agency's ability to function. The administration appealed a lower court's ruling in a lawsuit by trade groups representing the payday loan industry that found that the funding mechanism violated the constitutional provision giving lawmakers the power of the purse. The agency, which enforces consumer financial laws, draws money each year from the U.S. Federal Reserve rather than budgets passed by Congress. Arguments are scheduled for Oct. 3. SEC IN-HOUSE ENFORCEMENT The justices will hear the Biden administration's defense of certain Securities and Exchange Commission in-house enforcement proceedings in another case that could undercut the power of federal agencies. The administration appealed a lower court's decision that struck down certain SEC enforcement proceedings as unconstitutional for violating the right to a jury trial and infringing on presidential and congressional powers. The case involves a hedge fund manager who the SEC had fined and barred from the industry over securities fraud. Arguments have not yet been scheduled. COMMERCIAL FISHERMEN The issue of whether the government can require commercial fishermen to help fund a program monitoring herring catches off New England's coast will come before the court in yet another a case that could diminish the power of federal agencies. New Jersey-based fishing companies appealed a lower court's ruling in favor of the U.S. government in a challenge to a conservation program overseen by the National Marine Fisheries Service. The companies are asking the Supreme Court to overturn its decades-old precedent calling for judges to defer to federal agency interpretation of U.S. laws, a doctrine called "Chevron deference." Arguments have not yet been scheduled. SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT MODERATION The legality of Republican-backed laws in Texas and Florida that constrain the ability of social media companies to curb content on their platforms that these businesses deem objectionable is set to be decided by the justices. They took up two cases involving technology industry challenges portraying the laws restricting the content-moderation practices of large social media platforms as a violation of the Constitution's First Amendment protections for freedom of speech. Arguments have not yet been scheduled. SOCIAL MEDIA AND GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS Exploring free speech rights in the social media era, the court will consider whether the Constitution's First Amendment bars government officials from blocking critics on platforms like Facebook and X, formerly called Twitter. At issue in disputes from California and Michigan is whether a public official's social media activity can amount to governmental action bound by First Amendment limits on government regulation of speech. Arguments are scheduled for Oct. 31. PURDUE PHARMA BANKRUPTCY SETTLEMENT A Biden administration challenge to the legality of Purdue Pharma's bankruptcy settlement goes to the justices, involving a deal that would shield its wealthy Sackler family owners from lawsuits over their role in the U.S. opioid epidemic. Purdue's owners under the settlement would receive immunity in exchange for paying up to $6 billion to settle thousands of lawsuits filed by states, hospitals, people who had become addicted and others who have sued the company over misleading marketing of its powerful pain medication OxyContin. Arguments have not yet been scheduled. 'TRUMP TOO SMALL' TRADEMARK The court will consider whether a California attorney's trademark for the phrase "Trump Too Small" - a cheeky criticism of the former president - should have been granted by the U.S. Trademark Office. The office appealed a lower court's decision that the attorney's First Amendment free speech protections for his criticism of public figures outweighed the agency's concerns about Trump's rights. He applied for the trademark in 2018 to use on shirts, citing among other things remarks by Senator Marco Rubio about the size of "certain parts of (Trump's) anatomy, such as his hands." Arguments are scheduled for Nov. 1. (Compiled by Andrew Chung in New York and John Kruzel and Blake Brittain in Washington; Editing by Will Dunham) FILE PHOTO: Republican U.S. Presidential candidates participate in first 2024 campaign debate in Milwaukee FILE PHOTO: Republican U.S. Presidential candidates participate in first 2024 campaign debate in Milwaukee By Gram Slattery WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Republican presidential contenders are scheduled to face off in a third primary debate on Nov. 8. Here are some facts about the forum: WHERE IS IT? The third debate will take place in Miami. NBC News announced it will host the event at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County and air it from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. ET (0100 to 0300 GMT). Florida is the home of former President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis , who are running first and second in national opinion polls, respectively. Florida was until recently a battleground between Republicans and Democrats, but the state now leans conservative. The state hosts a Republican primary contest in March, which has played a crucial role in previous primary elections, though it is considerably less important than contests in Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina, which are slated for January and February. WHO IS ELIGIBLE? To qualify for the debate, a candidate will need to receive at least 4% in two national polls or 4% in one national poll as well as 4% in a poll in at least two "early states." Those early states are Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada and South Carolina, all of which are among the first to hold nominating contests. The Republican National Committee has laid out several requirements for surveys to count toward this requirement, including that they must take place after Sept. 1. Candidates will also be required to have at least 70,000 unique donors, including at least 200 donors from 20 or more states or territories. They also must sign a pledge which requires participants to support the eventual Republican nominee. WILL TRUMP BE THERE? Trump holds a 37-percentage-point lead over DeSantis, his closest challenger, according to the latest Reuters/Ipsos poll, limiting the debate's significance if he is not there. Trump opted out of the first two Republican debates, saying it would be "stupid" to expose himself to attacks from opponents after he previously implied he would not participate in any of the debates. While the possibility that Trump changes his mind cannot be ruled out, his campaign advisers on Oct. 2 called for the RNC to cancel the upcoming Miami debate. WHICH OTHER CANDIDATES WILL BE THERE? DeSantis, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley and tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy appear to have the support needed to make the debate stage. Former Vice President Mike Pence, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and U.S. Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina also appear to have a solid shot of being there, according to recent polls. North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum faces longer odds. Former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, who did not qualify for the second debate in California, is unlikely to be there, unless his fortunes change. HOW MUCH WILL THE DEBATE MATTER? The November debate could make a difference for some candidates, but is unlikely to change the fundamental dynamics of the race. After the first presidential debate in Wisconsin, for instance, Haley received a measurable polling boost and renewed interest from donors thanks to a well-received performance. Still, that debate did not dent Trump's massive lead. With the third debate just over two months before the first primary contest in Iowa in January, the candidates will be under intense pressure to begin chipping away at Trump's lead. (Reporting by Gram Slattery and Nathan Layne; additiona reporting by Susan Heavey; editing by Ross Colvin, Deepa Babington and Jonathan Oatis) Peak fall colors are waning in the Finger Lakes, leaving behind a brilliant spectrum of reds, oranges and yellows that captured our hearts and attention. But there are still several spots in the region where the splendor of fall can be spotted before the week's end. According to New York's weekly fall foliage report, here's the latest on the region: Fall foliage in the Finger Lakes, broken down by county Tioga County: Spotters in Owego report past-peak foliage with more than 95% color change and primarily yellow and brown leaves, and the occasional pop of red. Wayne County: Expect past-peak foliage by the weekend in Lyons predict 95% change, with yellow, orange and brown leaves. Onondaga County: Spotters in Syracuse expect peak foliage with 90% color change and mostly yellow and mustard leaves of average brilliance, along with a few shades of red. Peak and past-peak conditions are expected around Upper Onondaga Park, with more than 85% leaf change and yellow leaves accented by pops of orange and dark red. Steuben County: Observers in Corning, Hammondsport, Hornell and Bath predict a 90% change and peak foliage by the weekend.. Cortland County: Spotters in Cortland predict past-peak foliage by the weekend with 85% transition with some brilliant red and orange leaves remaining. Ontario County: Spotters predict that foliage in Rushville should peak this weekend with 80% change and vibrant seasonal shades. Brilliant colors of fall can be found throughout Mendon Ponds Park in Pittsford on Oct. 18, 2022. Yates County: An 80% color transition is expected in Penn Yan by the weekend, which is also just past peak of color change. Livingston County: Peak foliage is expected in Geneseo by the weekend with 75% or more color change, with yellow and orange leaves highlighted by pops of red, despite significant leaf droppage Monroe County: Most of the area will be past-peak by the weekend, with a chance of some peak colors, including varying shades of yellow, orange, red and brown leaves on trees along Lake Ontario. Observers in Brighton predict just-past-peak conditions, with plenty of yellow leaves, along with some gold, orange and red brightening the entire landscape. The fallen yellow leaves reflect the available light. Cayuga County: Spotters in Auburn predict past-peak foliage this weekend with nearly complete color change. Chemung County: Expect past-peak conditions in Elmira with complete leaf change, considerable droppage and only a few colorful leaves remaining. Tompkins County: Leaves are expected to be just past peak in Ithaca and Trumansburg by the weekend, with complete color change and muted to average shades of brown, burnt orange and red. 5 places to visit in the Finger Lakes for great fall foliage photos Foliage starts to take on the bright colors of fall in the gorge at Letchworth State Park in Mount Morris on Oct. 3, 2013. Letchworth State Park - The park encompasses roughly 17 miles that spans Livingston and Wyoming counties. The Genesee River runs through a 550-foot-tall gorge that cuts through the park, with cascading waterfalls. Ithaca - They say "Ithaca is gorges" with good reason. Located at the southern end of Cayuga Lake, autumnal views are breathtaking in Ithaca, Tompkins County. Nearby state parks include Taughannock Falls, Robert Treman and Buttermilk Falls, which all offer unique hiking, waterfalls and leaf peeping opportunities. Naples - In southwestern Ontario County, the foliage near Naples cannot be beat. Walk through Grimes Glen Park or Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreational Area as the leaves transition or take a drive on Route 21, stopping at seasonal roadside farm stands Watkins Glen - located at the southern end of Seneca Lake in Schuyler County, Watkins Glen is home to the oldest state park in the Finger Lakes. The park is best known for the gorge trail, as hikers follow a path through chiseled tunnels, spiraled steps and stone bridges in fall splendor. Head to nearby Montour Falls for another spectacular waterfall - Shequaga Falls. Keuka Lake - Hammondsport, a village at the southern end of Keuka Lake, has spectacular views. Due to the lake's unique Y-shape, though, fall foliage is aplenty from any vantage point - or winery - by the lake. The Bluffs are a favorite spot that offer a full panorama view. 5 places to eat while checking out fall foliage in the Finger Lakes Moosewood Restaurant - There are many stellar dining options in Ithaca, Tompkins County, but none are quite like the Moosewood. Located in a former high school building on Cayuga Street in Ithaca, the iconic eatery serves a seasonal menu of vegetarian and vegan dishes. moosewoodrestaurant.com Roots Cafe - American cuisine is served at the cafe, which is attached to Inspire Moore winery on North Main Street in Naples, Ontario County. rootscafenaplesny.com Doug's Fish Fry - With locations in Cortland, Cortland County, and Skaneateles, Onondaga County, the loved Finger Lakes institution also offers a trailer that travels to towns around the region, including near Ithaca, Elmira and Binghamton. dougsfishfry.com Salt of the Earth - This cozy hidden gem offers farm-to-table ingredients on the eastern side of Cayuga Lake in Union Springs, Cayuga County. soteunionsprings.com The Park Inn - Located in Hammondsport, Yates County, this upscale farm-to-table restaurant is located at the south end of Keuka Lake. parkinnflx.com More: 7 must-try restaurants while enjoying fall foliage in the Finger Lakes The legendary Moosewood Restaurant opened in 1973. The restaurant, which is collectively owned and featured a healthy vegetarian menu, is still in its original location in the DeWitt Mall. Where is the peak foliage in other places in New York? This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Finger Lakes fall foliage 2023: Where to see best colors this weekend Portraits of former Solicitors Randolph Murdaugh, Sr., Randolph Buster Murdaugh and Randolph Murdaugh, III hang on the wall inside the courtroom at the Hampton County courthouse in Hampton, South Carolina. Convicted murderer and confessed fraudster Richard Alex Murdaugh brought about the fall of a century-old legal and political dynasty and forever changed his familys legacy. Now, millions around the world will forever associate the Murdaugh name with corruption, betrayal, fraud and even bloodshed. But the Randolph Murdaugh trilogy three generations of attorneys all sharing the same name left behind a complicated legacy. For 85-plus years in South Carolinas 14th Judicial Circuit, the Murdaughs were the prosecutors, the pursuers of justice, and in their heyday these solicitors helped convict and punish some of the most wicked criminals in the Palmetto State. This is the first of a historical series focusing on these fascinating criminal cases. WALTERBORO, SC, 1927 The small-town Southern preacher fasted and prayed, and then released himself to temptation. But the sins of the flesh have a way of coming back to indict you. The baby in question a damning, tell-tale piece of evidence crawled around the wooden planks of the courtroom as the young girl pointed at her accuser, the pastor and founder of her church. The crowd gasped, the jury astounded. The newspapers of the day described the trial as one of the most interesting and sensational ever held in Colleton County, Randolph Murdaugh Sr. The prosecutor was 14th Circuit Solicitor Randolph Murdaugh Sr. (Feb. 28, 1887 July 19, 1940), a tough historical figure who practiced law in a tough time: in the midst of the Great War and Great Depression. Murdaugh Sr., who founded his family law firm and sparked the Murdaugh legal and political dynasty, became known as a fierce and fearless prosecutor, pursuing criminal charges against dangerous violent criminals and powerful white-collar crooks alike. Murdaugh Sr. made headlines statewide for going toe-to-toe with and prosecuting crooked Depression-era bankers, corrupt government officials, shady sheriffs and other rogue lawmen, and once even a former South Carolina governor. But one of his most sensational and scandalous criminal cases involved an allegedly hot-blooded, Holiness preacher charged with the statutory rape and impregnation of a teenage girl in his country church congregation in 1927. A Colleton County church is born. Rev. Lloyd M. Bishop emerges. The man who would become known as Rev. Lloyd M. Bishop had a crisis of faith. He could not get along with other members of his denomination, described as Pentecostal Holiness, so he and a co-worker decided to start their own branch. The two met one eventful day, presumably at a nearby creek, baptized each other, and founded a new church in rural Colleton County to teach and preach what they considered the true Holiness doctrine. One by one, curious folks, tired of the same-old religion, flocked to this new church. They likely convened at members homes, or under shady brush arbors, as was the custom of the day. Soon the new preacher took a young woman from the congregation under his wing and appointed her his assistant, and this arrangement quickly turned into a cozy marriage. But as the church continued to grow and attract new followers, it was clear this growing congregation needed a brick-and-mortar place to worship. One of the devoted followers, who lived near the village of Cottageville, was a carpenter and volunteered to erect a chapel for the Rev. Bishop near the carpenters home. But the carpenter had a comely teenage daughter. Temptation turns to indignation, indictment During the construction of the church, the carpenter and the preacher spent much time together, and There sprang up great intimacy between the two families, and much visiting resulted, the newspapers of the time later reported. According to later court testimony, Bishop won the confidence of the girl, who was between the ages of 13 and 14. He appointed her as one of his special assistants, as he had once done with the young woman he later married, and even "licensed" the teenager to preach. Much time was spent together in late-night prayer sessions, after Sunday dinner on the grounds and down by the baptism creek. According to the indictments and the prosecutions claims at trial, an illicit relationship developed between the preacher and the young teen. The girl later testified that Bishop told her he fasted and prayed before embarking on the affair, and God had sanctioned the union. Before the Fall: Article on preacher found guilty of statutory criminal assault in 1927. But the 14th Judicial Circuit did not, and neither did Solicitor Murdaugh. And hidden sins soon find a way into the light, and to this underaged girl a child was born but her family did not believe this was an immaculate conception. Criminal trial brings packed house, courtroom drama Not long after the childs birth, which set the village gossips talking and outraged and embarrassed the young mothers family, the Reverend was indicted on charges of statutory criminal sexual assault. The stage was set for a scandalous courtroom drama that made the headlines of history around the Palmetto State. The trial date was set for June 15, 1927, before Judge J. Henry Johnston in Walterboro, and it would prove to be one of Solicitor Murdaughs most scandalous cases ever. Murdaugh and Herber R. Padgett, once political rivals, represented the state, while Ivy A. Smoak, a probate judge, was the appointed counsel for the accused preacher. Randolph Murdaugh Sr. In an age before television and true crime podcasts, newspapers reported that the public held intense interest in this case, following it from start to finish. The entire courthouse was occupied , noted a reporter for The Watchman and Southron, adding standing room was at a premium. Bishops defense attorney quickly came out of the gate with a couple of surprise plot twists claims that the girl was, in fact, of legal age when the sins of the flesh occurred, followed by allegations that another man, not the preacher, was the guilty party! The defense claimed the girl described as the prosecutrix in one newspaper was older than 16, the legal age of consent, when she became pregnant. Bishop's attorney also suggested that a male relative of the girl was the real father thus it was more convenient to fix the blame on the preacher rather than the victims family member. Randolph Murdaugh Sr. in front of the steps to the Hampton County Courthouse. But this strategy proved ineffective. For lo and behold, the young lady brought the ultimate piece of evidence with her to the courthouse her bouncing baby boy! According to the Watchman and Southern newspaper of Sumter, the boy, described as the innocent cause of the legal battle, played on the courtroom floor while testimony raged for two days. Even as Rev. Bishops public defender maintained his clients innocence, the jury was eyeballing the baby, searching hard for any physical resemblance between the accused and the evidentiary infant. To compound matters for the allegedly hot-blooded Holiness preacher, his wife and previous assistant sat by his side during the trial and engaged in frequent, heated conferences in her husbands ear as more and more details of the unlawful tryst came to light, the papers mentioned. Court began on a Monday, and after a two-day trial, closing arguments were heard and the case was presented to the jury. What would become of this accused apostle? Just as a Colleton County jury decided Alex Murdaughs fate during his 2023 double murder trial, a jury of peers was set to judge the wayward pastor. Before the Fall: The Murdaugh family has had a long tenure as judges and lawyers in Colleton County. We take a look back at some of the more influential trials that have been entwined with the family over the years. Including a preacher found guilty of a statutory crime. The Colleton jury found the Rev. Bishop guilty of statutory criminal assault. The pastors public defender immediately made a motion for a new trial as his convicted client was sent straight away to the Colleton County jail in Walterboro to await sentencing. On Thursday of that week, Judge Johnston denied the motion for a new trial and sentenced Bishop to a term in the state penitentiary of 2.5 to 5 years. The young victim and her child slipped quietly away from the public eye, but that did not appear to be the end of Bishops career as a religious leader. According to area newspaper archives, he resumed preaching at the helm of his church after serving less than three years of that prison sentence. An April 1930 edition of The (Walterboro) Press and Standard advertised that Rev. Bishop was holding 8 p.m. services in the Holiness church every night from Wednesday to Sunday, and as a bonus he even offered prison lectures on sin and crime. Want to hear more on this story? Check out Episode 5 of The Wicked South Podcast, by Michael DeWitt Jr., Seton Tucker and Matt Harris. To listen click here: Randolph Murdaugh Sr & The Case of The Pedophile Preacher. Follow Michael DeWitt's reporting as The Hampton County Guardian/Greenville News and the USA Today Network continue to follow cases related to the Murdaugh crime saga. Follow DeWitt on Facebook and on Twitter at @mmdewittjr for the latest updates. This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: The Murdaugh Solicitor Files: The 1927 Case of the Pedophile Preacher The family of Eddie Irizarry has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against two Philadelphia police officers, including the one who fired the gunshots that killed the 27-year-old during a traffic stop last month. The civil lawsuit seeks at least $150,000 in monetary damages, claiming Irizarry was inexplicably shot and killed when he posed no threat of bodily harm, injury or death to anyone, including the defendants, former officer Mark Dial, who fired the fatal shots, and his partner, officer Michael Morris. News of the lawsuit comes just days after a Philadelphia municipal court judge dismissed a slew of charges against Dial, murder and voluntary manslaughter among them, stemming from the August 14 shooting, though prosecutors have refiled the charges with a higher court. Police initially said Irizarry had lunged at the officers while outside his vehicle but later admitted that was not the case. The familys complaint acknowledged Irizarry had a pocket knife he used for work as an auto mechanic, but added he made no threatening motions or actions towards anyone. As a result, no use of deadly force was reasonable or authorized under the law, the lawsuit says. CNN has reached out to Dial and Morris for comment about the lawsuit. In a statement earlier this week, Fortunato Perri Jr., an attorney for Dial, said, despite what has been portrayed to the media, the facts will unmistakably show that Officer Mark Dial was legally justified in discharging his weapon while fearing for his life. The family of Eddie Irizarry holds a press conference on Tuesday, August 22, 2023. - KYW Use of force was excessive, lawsuit claims The complaint, filed Wednesday and brought by Irizarrys sister, according to a family attorney, on behalf of his estate and son in the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas, claims three counts, including assault and battery and wrongful death. The two officers approached Irizarry after they saw a car being driven erratically and began following it, according to the initial statement by police. But the lawsuit alleges the officers never used their sirens or lights to alert the driver he was being followed, contending the officers essentially surprised Irizarry while he was parking. Irizarry was still in his vehicle when Dial approached the drivers side door and pulled out his gun, the lawsuit says. The officer screamed at Irizarry to show me your hands and I will f**king shoot you, the lawsuit says. Irizarrys doors were locked and he rolled the windows up as Dial approached. The lawsuit claims Dial immediately resorted to lethal force by pulling out his gun, rather than attempting to use something like a Taser. Irizarry did not have time to react to the officers commands before he was shot, the lawsuit says. From the time that Defendant Police Officer Dial exits his vehicle with his gun out, until the time that he shoots the Plaintiffs Decedent, approximately 5 seconds pass, the lawsuit says. The use of force was excessive, the lawsuit says, arguing that any traffic offense Irizarry was suspected of committing would not have been one for which he could have been arrested but likely punishable by a small fine. Irizarry, according to the suit, never exited the vehicle, never lunged at police officers, and the officers never even gave him the opportunity to drop the knife which was completely legal to own and possess before Defendant Police Officer Dial summarily shot him 6 times at point blank range. Charges refiled after being dropped Police at first told reporters the officers gave the driver multiple commands to drop a weapon while he was outside his vehicle, and that Irizarry had lunged at the officers when he was shot. But body camera footage showed Irizarry was still inside the vehicle when the shooting happened, Philadelphia Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw said two days later, adding the video made it very clear what we initially reported was not actually what happened. Dial was fired. The Philadelphia district attorneys office filed seven charges against him earlier this month and released body camera footage of the shooting. District attorney Larry Krasner called that footage crucial evidence. Outlaw stepped down as police commissioner on September 22 to take a new job with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. But those charges were dropped during a preliminary court hearing Tuesday, which included testimony from Morris, Dials partner, who said he shouted knife when they approached Irizarrys vehicle. The video shows Morris also yelled gun, and the officer testified that he was shouting because he feared for his life. Philadelphia police Officer Mark Dial, center, arrives at court in Philadelphia, on September 19, 2023, for a bail hearing. - Alejandro A. Alvarez/The Philadelphia Inquirer via AP The defense argued that the knife Irizarry possessed had a handle similar to a gun handle and that it could have looked like a gun to the officers. Prosecutors argued charges of first-degree murder were appropriate because Dial approached Irizarrys vehicle with his gun already drawn for what was otherwise a routine traffic stop. But Brian McMonagle, another defense attorney for Dial, said there was no way in this world this man committed murder. Judge Wendy L. Pew said she agreed with the defenses argument 100% and dismissed the charges, prompting one side of the courtroom made up of Dials family and police officers to erupt in cheers. The district attorneys office refiled all seven charges against Dial by Tuesday afternoon in the Court of Common Pleas, a higher court. But the dismissal of charges upset Irizarrys family, who said there was an abundance of evidence to make the case. What more evidence do you want? You can see the video; the video was played in the court, said Zoraida Garcia, Irizarrys aunt. The judge has seen the video. For her to drop all charges, she shouldnt even be a judge. CNNs Eric Levenson contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com A group of far-right local commissioners in Michigan who voted Tuesday night to defund the Ottawa County Health Department in retaliation against COVID measures is now trying to terminate the departments head. Adeline Hambley, the current health officer leading the department, has been locked in litigation with the group of six commissioners who now hold the board majority. During an eight-hour board meeting held Tuesday evening, in which more than 60 people gave public comments, the board approved a budget that will dramatically reduce funding for the Ottawa County Department of Health, Hambleys attorney received notice that Board Chair Joe Moss will try to terminate her next month. Far-Right Board Delivers Ultimate Payback for COVID Measures Moss officially filed notice of his intention with the Ottawa County Clerks Office on Wednesday. In the filing, Moss said the decision about Hambleys future would be made at a hearing on October 19. He accused Hambley of incompetence, misconduct, and neglect of duty and of making false public representations about the budget process. In response, Hambleys attorney filed a motion in the Michigan court of appeals requesting that a judge order a stay on Mosss proposed hearing. Moss, without the entire Board of Commission issuing the charges, intends to put on a sham hearing to fire Hambley, Sarah Riley Howard, Hambleys attorney wrote in the motion. Appellants have engaged in additional, unlawful acts of retaliation against Appellee Hambley because she has communicated directly with the public about Appellants plans to slash the County public health budget in ways that would violate the Public Health Code and likely trigger other serious adverse consequences. In her response to the approved budget, Hambley released a statement Wednesday disputing the Ottawa Impact commissioners claims that funding had not been reduced. She said the new budget represented a 23.3 percent reduction in requested revenue from public health. These reductions include cuts to mandated health education, and nutrition and wellness programs, as well as a reduction in funding for one epidemiologist for disease surveillance, Hambley wrote. I remain steadfast in my belief that these actions represent unlawful retaliation against me and the department. Marcia Mansaray, the deputy health officer, told The Daily Beast that employees of the health department gathered on Wednesday to discuss Moss latest attempt to remove Hambley. Theyre all really tired and its been a terrible month-and-a-half rollercoaster for them, not knowing if theyre going to have a job, Mansaray said. We spent an hour encouraging each other and talking and bringing up fears or concerns or questions about the future. And how we would do this together. Moss co-founded Ottawa Impact an ultraconservative group that unseated incumbent Republicans last November, following his failed lawsuit against the county over mask mandates. Since the beginning of the year, the ultraconservative commissioners have steered the countys policies to the right to the dismay of other board members and public health officials. The Far Right Took Over a County Board in Michigan and Wreaked Revenge The Ottawa Impact-affiliated commissioners have been attempting to fire Hambley and cut millions from her departments budget since they took office in January. Hambley filed a lawsuit against the board members in February, saying they were attempting to fire her without just cause. She was granted an injunction, allowing her to continue working while the case makes its way through an appeal court. The next court of appeals hearing in that case is scheduled for Oct. 11, eight days before Moss now proposes to fire Hambley. The court issued a warning at the last hearing on Sept. 5 that all parties in the case proceed at their own peril if they take substantial actions before this court hears oral arguments. Moss did not respond to a request for comment. 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. Moscow Mission, a highly anticipated crime thriller based on the infamous Trans-Siberian train robberies of 1993, has realized a two-decade-long dream for Andy Lau, the Hong Kong icon revealed during a premiere in Beijing on Tuesday. The movie is set during a period in the early 1990s when many merchants took the six-day train trip from Beijing to Moscow to trade daily commodities for high profits. As there was no police presence on the train beyond the Chinese border at the time, it was targeted by criminals, and the scene of heists, robberies, and even more violent crimes, including rape. Also serving as one of the executive producers, Lau revealed that he had been thinking about the idea of turning real life stories into a movie for almost two decades, and had been hooked on the project but only managed to start shooting last year. Scriptwriter Chen Daming, who spent six months in Moscow during the 1990s, recounted firsthand experiences of the times that inspired most of his plotlines, including one stunning instance of a Chinese tycoon assigning his subordinate to purchase a fighter plane from Russia. The film stars Zhang Hanyu as a policeman and Huang Xuan as a ruthless criminal mastermind who leads the train heist. Lau plays a wanted fugitive who flees to Moscow and is Huang's former criminal partner, but chooses to turn himself in because of his yearning to reunite with his young daughter in China. The movie is set to open in domestic theaters on Sept 29. A farmer in southern Australia captured an animal considered locally extinct for over a century while trying to protect his chickens. Photos show the spotted creature. Frank Pao-Ling Tsai, a trout farmer in Beachport, South Australia, heard a panic from his chickens and rushed outside early in the morning on Tuesday, Sept. 26, he told McClatchy News in an email. Inside the coup, Tsai found a spotted creature and a dead chicken, he said. I had no idea what it was at first, Tsai told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. I expected to find a cat, but I found this little animal instead. Photos show the captured animal. It has a furry brown body, long tail and smattering of white spots. It appears angry and bared its teeth at the camera, photos show. The spotted-tailed quoll was captured in a plastic chicken cage. Photo from Frank Pao-Ling Tsai Tsai captured the creature in a plastic chicken cage, he told McClatchy News. He took photos and shared them in hopes of identifying the animal. Wildlife officials identified the animal as a spotted-tailed quoll, the National Parks and Wildlife Service of South Australia told McClatchy News. Quolls are about cat-sized marsupials with a cat-like shape but a lot stronger jaws and a lot longer canine teeth, Limestone Coast district wildlife ranger Ross Anderson told McClatchy News. The spotted-tailed quoll, also known as the tiger quoll, is an endangered quoll species and the largest native carnivore left on the (Australia) mainland, according to the Australian Conservation Foundation. An estimated 14,000 spotted-tailed quolls are left in the wild, the organization said. The last officially documented sighting of a spotted-tailed quoll in South Australia was in the 1880s, Anderson said. The species has been considered locally extinct for over 130 years. A photo show the spotted-tailed quoll in a metal cage. Photo from Frank Pao-Ling Tsai Its a once-in-a-lifetime event, really, Anderson told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Its amazing to have something we thought was extinct turning up at our backdoor, Anderson told The Guardian. The quoll Tsai originally captured managed to escape out a damaged corner of the cage, he said. Wildlife officials set up another trap and again captured a spotted-tailed quoll, Anderson said. We reckon its the same animal based on the scars on its face. We cant be sure where its come from, Anderson told The Guardian. It could have been a relic population, Anderson told McClatchy News. (Or) it could have been an animal thats moved from other areas . (or) it may have escaped from captivity. We took some DNA to see if we can work out the likely origins, he said. Its a great opportunity for us to get some information and it would be fabulous if it turned out to be a relic population. After being checked by a vet and DNA-tested, the captured quoll was released, Anderson said. Wildlife officials will set up cameras and traps to study the rediscovered quoll species and see if there are more quolls around Beachport, he said. Beachport is in the state of South Australia and about 800 miles southwest of Sydney. UPDATE (9/29): The article was updated with comments from Ross Anderson and the National Parks and Wildlife Service of South Australia. Driver spots iconic wild cat considered locally extinct for 42 years along road Strange sea creature was considered locally extinct until a runner spotted one Woman spots small creature considered locally extinct for 100 years in her garden Spanish agroinfluencers are hoping to drag rural farming into the digital world by making social media stars of their newborn calves and gleaming tractors. A scheme in Navarre, northern Spain, will see farmers trained on social media platforms including Facebook and Instagram so they can show people their world and how it is changing. There is a lot of ignorance about farming life, said Pello Sarratea, 29, a local cattle farmer who has posted pictures on Instagram of the hills where he tends to his animals. I think it is important that people in the urban world and also the rural world learn more about how the meat ends up on their table, he told The Telegraph Six farmers have been selected to take part in the hour-long sessions, led by a social media trainer and paid for with a grant of nearly 12,000 (10,300) by local authorities. Pello Sarratea: 'There is a lot of ignorance about farming life' The project was devised by the Union of Navarran Farmers, which felt that conventional media was failing to document farmers stories and explain the realities of agricultural work. Mr Sarratea has also shared footage of the birth of some of his calves to increase understanding of animal husbandry. The point of this course is to teach farmers how to use the tools on social media to communicate with people, he said, Fields of gold: one of Alberto Alfaro's Instagram pictures - Instagram Huge tractors glistening in the sun and snow-covered fields are among the images posted on the Instagram page of fellow farmer Alberto Alfaro, who produces cereal in Cascante. Mr Alfaro, 39, said his newfound digital skills could benefit his business and would show how farming is changing. I want to show what agriculture is about, all the new technologies, like satellite imagery, precision agriculture to reduce the use of fertilisers and compost, he told the El Pais newspaper. Then I want to show digitalisation. It is something which is starting in agriculture and in two years the whole world will have to be familiar with the processes. A snow-covered field by Alberto Alfaro - Instagram Mr Alfaro said he doubted that he would be raking in the cash like some Spanish YouTube stars. They are going to teach us to be agroinfluencers, but ending up with lots of money and living in Andorra? I think not, he joked. The three-month course, which will also teach farmers how to use conventional media to their advantage, hopes to shift perceptions of the industry among Spaniards and safeguard it for the future. This is a sector which is undervalued by society at times, especially by people who live in cities and do not know what they do, Susana Villanueva, head of communication for the Union of Farmers and Ranchers of Navarra, told The Telegraph. In some ways these farmers help to stop villages from disappearing and their work can be important for sustainability. Its a world which is not seen very often by some people. 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. Washington More than 1.3 million active-duty military members and thousands of air traffic controllers and TSA agents would have to work without pay during a government shutdown, a prospect that was avoided thanks to a last-minute deal Saturday brokered by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy . The 45-day stopgap funding bill passed the House and Senate with mere hours to spare before the midnight deadline will keep the government open through Nov. 17. Prior to the funding bill's passage, both the Department of Homeland Security and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said a lapse in funding would severely hamper key government functions and could cause lengthy delays at airports. The White House warned that active-duty service members could have their pay delayed in the event of a shutdown, even if it lasted just a few days. The Defense Department was not subject to the last shutdown in 2018 and 2019, since Congress passed and President Trump signed the Defense Appropriations Act two days before the end of the fiscal year. In 2013, Congress passed a one-off law just before the shutdown that ensured service members would be paid. The impacts of a government shutdown All departments are required to maintain contingency plans in the event of a shutdown, and the White House lists of dozen of the most up-to-date versions on its website. Agencies were expected to issue specific guidance by the end of the week. While the shutdown would have technically began early Sunday morning, most of those plans wouldn't begin to be fully implemented until Monday, the next business day. On Thursday, DHS said nearly 72% of its massive workforce, or roughly 185,000 employees, would be kept on the job but not get paid until new spending is approved. Those affected would include Border Patrol agents, members of the U.S. Coast Guard, law enforcement agents, Transportation Security Administration workers and customs agents. "As the third largest department of the federal government, DHS is home to hundreds of thousands of hard-working individuals devoted to public service," the department said in a fact sheet. "A shutdown would affect every member of the DHS community in some way, putting a strain on our team members' ability to make ends meet, put food on the table, and more." TSA agents are among the lowest-paid federal employees, and most are required to keep working during a shutdown. Towards the end of the last funding lapse in 2019, agents began calling in sick en masse, causing wait times at checkpoints to jump over an hour at several major airports. The demonstration was credited with pressuring lawmakers and the White House to end the stand-off. If a shutdown were to have begun Oct. 1, TSA employees would have received their last paycheck during the second week of October, but it would have been half of their normal pay. A furloughed TSA employee at a food bank for federal workers impacted by the government shutdown in Brooklyn, New York, Jan. 22, 2019. / Credit: TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty Images Buttigieg, the transportation secretary, said a lapse in government funding would force the department to furlough hundreds of workers training to be air traffic controllers. "After everything that we have been through, after all of the disruptions to air travel, especially the ones that we saw last year, we have finally seen cancellations and delays get back down to normal levels," he said at a press conference on Wednesday. "A shutdown would stop all of that progress. It would mean we would immediately have to stop training new air traffic controllers and furlough another 1,000 controllers who are already in the training pipeline." Buttigieg said the "complexity of the hiring process" means that even a relatively short shutdown of just a few days could cause the department to miss its hiring goals for next year. Jennifer Homendy, the chair of the National Transportation Safety Board, told CBS News that only 28 of the independent agency's 433 employees would keep working during a shutdown. Those 28 include director-level employees and board members. The remaining workers would be furloughed, including accident investigators. Federal law says employees who are in non-essential roles are prohibited from working during a lapse in government funding. Those whose absence would endanger life or property, or whose responsibilities derive from the Constitution, are allowed to keep working. But all employees of agencies that run out of funding see their paychecks delayed, which can cause significant hardship for lower-wage workers if a shutdown drags on too long. The impact on government contractors can be even more severe. Government agencies hire outside firms to handle an untold number of tasks, including low-wage work like office cleaning and food service. Even a short funding lapse can present myriad issues, including the delay of payments to those contractors. And unlike federal employees, contractors are not guaranteed back pay once a shutdown is over, leaving thousands in a precarious financial position. How was the government shutdown avoided? Caution tape blows in the wind on the east front plaza of the U.S. Capitol Building on Sept. 27, 2023, in Washington, D.C. / Credit: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images About three hours before a midnight deadline, the Senate overwhelmingly passed a bipartisan bill Saturday evening to keep the government funded for 45 days, on a vote of 88 to 9, just before a government shutdown was to go into effect. The bill, which funds the government through Nov. 17, went to President Biden's desk for his signature. "Tonight, bipartisan majorities in the House and Senate voted to keep the government open, preventing an unnecessary crisis that would have inflicted needless pain on millions of hardworking Americans," Mr. Biden said in a statement after the passage. "This bill ensures that active-duty troops will continue to get paid, travelers will be spared airport delays, millions of women and children will continue to have access to vital nutrition assistance, and so much more. This is good news for the American people." No Democratic senators voted against the measure, with all nine no votes from Republicans. "It's been a day full of twists and turns, but the American people can breath a sigh of relief," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on the Senate floor after the vote. "There will be no government shutdown." The House had passed the measure that afternoon, after McCarthy announced in the morning that he would try to push the short-term funding bill through the House with Democratic help a move that could keep the government open but would put his speakership at risk. The bill ultimately won support from more Democrats than Republicans in the House, with 90 Republicans voting no. Just one Democrat voted against the measure. The House passed the bill 335-91 Saturday afternoon to fund the government for 45 days, hours before a government shutdown was to go into effect. Kris Van Cleave, Kathryn Krupnick and Jacqueline Kalil contributed reporting. How Taylor Swift could affect the 2024 election Slovakian driver fined after traffic camera shows dog behind wheel of car Rural California town with a rich history fights to preserve its heritage Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) took another swing at embattled New Jersey Sen. Bob Menendez (D) on Thursday, saying hes not interested in Menendezs explanation. Unless Senator Menendez is coming today to resign, I am not interested in hearing his explanation for gold bars stashed in a mattress, Fettermans statement read. Were past the point of his tough talk and defiance, given the scope and scale of his alleged corruption. The New Jersey senator is set to address the Democratic Caucus following his indictment on federal corruption and bribery charges as a growing list of his colleagues is calling for his resignation. Menendez pleaded not guilty Wednesday. Fetterman was the first senator to make that call in the past week after federal prosecutors accused Menendez and his wife, Nadine Arslanian, of taking hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes in exchange for helping three New Jersey businessmen and using his power to benefit Egypt. Hes entitled to the presumption of innocence under our system, but he is not entitled to continue to wield influence over national policy, especially given the serious and specific nature of the allegations, Fetterman said in a Saturday statement. Menendez has strongly denied the allegations against him, calling them an active smear campaign. Prosecutors did that the last time, and look what a trial demonstrates. People should remember that before accepting the prosecutors version, Menendez said in a Friday statement. The senator stepped down from his leadership position on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee following the indictment news, but has largely rejected the mounting calls for resignation. Fetterman said he was surprised by being the first senator to request Menendezs resignation Tuesday. He then likened the New Jersey senators bribery allegations to that of fictional character Tony Soprano. The last time theres ever been a man with so much cash in their home in New Jersey was Tony Soprano. You know? the Pennsylvania Democrat said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) told reporters Thursday that he would support a resolution to expel embattled Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) from Congress but such a measure would need 67 Senate votes to succeed. Fetterman also said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) should call on Menendez to step down from office after federal prosecutors accused the New Jersey lawmaker Friday of bribery, fraud and extortion. Asked if he would put forward a resolution to expel Menendez, Fetterman said, whatever kinds of procedure that could bring about getting rid of him, Im all for it, forcing it. Honor, clearly, isnt going to be the option to appeal to at this point, he said, noting that Menendez has been defiant in pushing back calls for his resignation. Asked if he would vote for a resolution to expel Menendez, Fetterman said, Of course I would vote for that. Fetterman made his remarks to reporters after Menendez spoke to the Senate Democratic caucus behind closed doors about the criminal charges filed last week in the Southern District of New York. The Pennsylvania senator said he did not attend the meeting because he wasnt interested in hearing Menendez try to explain away or deflect the serious felony accusations. Fetterman was the first Senate Democrat to call on Menendez to resign. Now the number has grown to more than half the Democratic caucus. Fetterman also called on Schumer to demand Menendezs resignation. I hope he does, but Im not in a position to tell him what he should do. I hope he would; I hope he does, he said. I hope the rest of our [Democratic] caucus and the Republicans join us, the rest of us that have already made the right call on that. Schumer left the meeting with Menendez in the historic Mansfield Room and walked directly to the Senate floor without taking questions. Any effort to expel Menendez would need Schumers support to come to the floor and the support of at least 17 Republicans. Democrats control 51 seats, but Menendez presumably wouldnt vote for his own expulsion. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.) said Wednesday that expelling Menendez is an issue for Democrats to deal with. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) declined to touch the controversial topic of expelling Menendez. Im not going to comment, he said. Menendez didnt take any questions and left the room by a side door to avoid the crowd of reporters who gathered in the hallway to ask the senator and his colleagues about the scandal. Updated at 2:48 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Hey, Pennsylvania voters, you must be so proud! The guy you elected to the U.S. Senate in 2022 is not only unable to string two sentences together, but has also given the country, its history and traditions, and the institution of the Senate itself a big middle finger by deciding that he will show up to do the peoples work looking like a slob, wearing a hoodie and shorts. Now, that might seem to be alright with some people in a society where many dont seem to care about decorum in any setting and where its cool to come to church wearing dirty jeans and a T-Shirt, but it is a symptom of a larger societal problem that has carried over into government. The problem isnt really John Fetterman , a cipher whose sole accomplishment is to take from Bob Casey Jr. the title as the most feckless U.S. senator in the history of Pennsylvania, but the attitude that engendered his little rebellion against good taste and decorum. Dwight Weidman Fetterman is actually and probably unintentionally making a valid point with his show of selfishness and disrespect, in that the U.S. Senate, and with it, the entire government apparatus, is a clown show run and populated by a collection of the sick, lame and lazy who dont deserve respect. You dont have to look far in the Senate for examples, such as 90-year-old California Democrat, Diane Feinstein, who in a recent video, had to be told by her staff what to say and how to vote in a committee meeting. Or Republican" Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who has frozen up twice while being questioned by reporters. Aside from the health and age problems, there are of course senators like Democrat Bob Menendez of New Jersey, who is now under indictment along with his wife, for bribery and other offenses. More: Half of Senate Democrats want Menendez to leave after bribery, corruption charges. Menendez was actually caught with stacks of hundred-dollar bills and gold bars stored in his home, which shows that he should have sought the advice from a prominent former U.S. senator on how to properly launder political bribes through phony shell companies and numerous bank accounts belonging to family members. Not to be outdone, the present executive branch of the government is populated with arguably the most incompetent group of cabinet officers ever assembled, and thats what happens when you hire people, not based on their qualifications, but on their race, gender, sexual preference, or their leftist bona fides. As a result, we have a Department of Defense that is more interested in DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) than it is national security; a State Department that is now held in contempt both by friends and enemies all over the world; a Homeland Security Department that has thrown our borders wide open; a Transportation Department that cannot manage our transportation systems; an Energy Department that opposes American energy production; and Treasury, Commerce and other departments who just plain stink at their jobs. Worst of all, we have a Justice Department that is overseen by a leftwing apparatchik named Merrick Garland, who, based on his last appearance before congress, is either totally clueless or the biggest liar in history. One thing is clear, though. The Biden Department of Justice seems intent to give the Biden family a get out of jail card while relentlessly pursuing our once and future president, Donald Trump . Its not surprising that the executive branch is in shambles when you look at the guy who is supposed to be in charge of it. Its becoming increasingly apparent that Joe Biden is unfit for his job, because of his obvious cognitive decline and the increasing evidence of apparent corruption that surrounds he and his family. How bad is it for Biden and the Democrats? The most recent Rasmussen poll shows support for his primary opponent, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., jumping to 25%. Even more significant is an ABC News/Washington Post poll conducted from Sept. 15 to Sept. 20 showing a 37% approval rating for the president and also showing that Donald Trump would beat Joe Biden 52%-42% in the general election. The alarm bells are going off in Democratic party circles, and it is increasingly difficult for their media allies to rescue them. Maybe they should all, including John Fetterman, put on their big boy clothes and start governing on behalf of the people instead of against them, but that is not what the Democratic Party is all about. 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: From Fetterman to Biden, Democrats show they are in shambles CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. Former President Donald Trump called for a revival of the economic nationalism that fueled his successful 2016 campaign in a visit here Wednesday aimed at distracting from the second Republican presidential primary debate. Trumps speech at a nonunion auto parts company was also geared toward blue-collar workers in the midst of a United Auto Workers strike. President Joe Biden made history Tuesday by joining a picket line outside Detroit, becoming the first sitting president to do so. Addressing an audience of more than 300 that included only a few of the striking workers, Trump ascribed the auto industrys problems to foreign trade deals he has long railed against pacts that Biden and even many Republicans have supported in the past. Trump also frequently complained that Biden and Democrats were pushing electric vehicles to please environmental activists at the expense of an industry still heavily centered on gas-powered cars. Joe Biden claims to be the most pro-union president in history, said Trump, who toured one of the companys factories before he began his remarks. His entire career has been an act of economic treason and union destruction. He added a direct appeal to UAW officials. Hopefully, he said, your leaders at the United Auto Workers will endorse Donald Trump. The crowd cheered loudly. Trumps appearance in this suburb north of Detroit is packed with meaning for a presidential campaign that could very well be a rematch of his 2020 race with Biden. By avoiding another debate with the GOP candidates looking to snatch the nomination from him, the front-running Trump is signaling he is more focused on a general election battle against Biden. Michigan is part of the swath of industrial and Midwest states that swung to Trump in 2016 and to Biden four years later. And, on a night his rivals tangled at former President Ronald Reagans namesake library, Trump was smack dab in Macomb County, legendary in the 1980s for its concentration of fed up blue-collar workers known as Reagan Democrats. Trump won Macomb County in 2016 and 2020, but Biden narrowed the margin a bit, losing by fewer than 40,000 votes. Hillary Clinton lost to Trump by about 48,000 votes four years earlier. The area is a major hub of auto industry activity, from car makers and parts suppliers to dealers. The audience Wednesday was a mix of workers from the host company, Drake Enterprises, and UAW members and area politicians. Many in the crowd waved Union Members for Trump signs printed in the University of Michigans blue and gold colors. The audience also included Trump fans with no deeply vested interest in the strike who were there more for Trump than for the autoworkers. J.R. Majewski, a Trump-backing Republican who last year lost a congressional race in Toledo, Ohio, made the 80-mile trip. Paul Sheridan, who came from nearby Bloomfield Hills to see Trump again, said: I mean, Ive seen him speak in person, two or three times.And hes always very good. And he speaks the truth. Hes funny. And so its always great to see him in person. But hardly any striking workers were on hand. There are a few strikers here, yes, said Brian Pannebecker, a former local autoworker who organizes an Auto Workers for Trump Facebook page and helped shore up attendees for the event. I dont know where theyre at. But there are several a handful. One of the striking UAW members on hand, Scott Malefant, concurred. I havent seen anybody yet, Malefant, wearing a Make America Great Again hat, said as he waited for Trump to arrive. Im sure there might be a few. The event came off like a Trump rally in miniature, far smaller than the arena blowouts he was known for in his first two campaigns but with the same festive atmosphere a food truck, the usual campaign playlist blaring over the speakers. Trump frequently went off on tangents unrelated to the labor dispute, delighting fans who cheered for him wildly and booed at mentions of Bidens name. When he hit on the strike and the auto industry, Trump talked up the America First themes familiar to his previous runs. And while he said he has nothing against electric vehicles, he repeatedly asserted that Bidens push to make more of them would hamstring the U.S. industry. The things that you make in Michigan, they dont need any of it, Trump said of electric car manufacturers. Trump also held himself up as a more reliable champion for autoworkers and the industry at large, at times sounding like the president who in 2017 told supporters in Youngstown, Ohio, not to sell their homes, because manufacturing was coming back on his watch. Two years later, General Motors closed a plant in nearby Lordstown. Plants have also closed in Warren, Michigan, and Baltimore. The number of auto manufacturing jobs held relatively even during Trumps administration, adding about 35,000 jobs from January 2017 to February 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Its obvious why Donald Trump is not at the Reagan Library tonight hes leading the Republican primary field by 40 points, said Rich Luchette, a Democratic strategist. But from a general election standpoint, Trumps speech at a nonunion shop is a mistake. It will no doubt remind voters of Trumps abysmal record on labor issues. Trump packed the National Labor Relations Board with anti-union appointees. Trump failed to bring back auto manufacturing jobs. Large throngs of Trump supporters and protesters marched near Drake before Trump arrived, waving signs and chanting. American Bridge 21st Century, a progressive super PAC, paid for a plane to circle the area with a banner reading TRUMP SOLD US OUT. Bidens re-election campaign, meanwhile, promoted a new cable TV and digital ad Wednesday aimed at Michigan voters, specifically in Detroit, Grand Rapids and Lansing. He says he stands with autoworkers, a narrator says of Trump. But as president, Donald Trump passed tax breaks for his rich friends, while automakers shuttered their plants and Michigan lost manufacturing jobs. Biden, the ad asserts, doesnt just talk; he delivers. Several Trump backers in the crowd Wednesday acknowledged that Bidens visit to the picket line Tuesday was a smart move. Im not a big fan of him, Malefant said. But, you know, any support we can get, well take it. Asked whether Trump should have joined a picket line, Malefant countered that he wouldnt want to see the guy get booed or anything. I think theres always going to be a warmer welcome for Democrats when it comes to the unions, Malefant added. I mean, a lot of people would boo Biden, but its not a popular thing with unions, so we kind of keep our mouths shut. Pannebecker, the organizer of the Facebook group, said Biden should not take sides in the dispute. I dont think the president of the United States should be sticking his nose into contract negotiations between businesses, companies and workers, he said. President Trumps here today to talk about what he accomplished during his first term and what he hopes to accomplish during his second term. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Luxury EV maker Lucid Group has opened its first international factory in Saudi Arabia, the home of its largest shareholder. The factory, located in Jeddah, will have initial capacity to assemble 5,000 Lucid vehicles annually, according to the company. Lucid said it plans to expand the facility to 150,000-vehicle production capacity. Workers at the plant will initially re-assemble Lucid Air vehicle kits that are pre-manufactured at the company's U.S. factory in Casa Grande, Arizona. Lucid aims to transition the Saudi Arabian factory to complete build unit production after the middle of the decade. The factory opening comes one year after the government of Saudi Arabia, which is connected to the kingdoms Public Investment Fund that owns 60% of Lucid, said it would buy 100,000 the automaker's electric vehicles over the next decade. The government of Saudi Arabia made an initial commitment to buy 50,000 of Lucids EVs with an option to purchase an additional 50,000 vehicles over that same 10-year time frame. The pledge includes the Lucid Air, a luxury sedan that launched in 2021, as well as future models such as the upcoming Gravity SUV. The EV sales agreement is part of the Saudi kingdoms Vision 2030 plan, which seeks to diversify its economy away from fossil fuels. Saudi Arabias Public Investment Fund, or PIF, invested $1 billion into Lucid Motors in 2018 when it was still a privately held company. The funding was a lifeline for Lucid and ensured the company would be able to start production of its first EV, the Air. PIF held onto its investment when Lucid became a publicly traded company via a merger with a special purpose acquisition company. FTZs advance China's high-quality development Xinhua) 08:37, September 28, 2023 A freight train carrying containers of durians and other tropical fruits arrives at Kunming East Railway Station in Kunming, southwest China's Yunnan Province, April 19, 2023. (Photo by Qin Wenlu/Xinhua) BEIJING, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Near a cargo terminal in Kunming, capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province, porters were busy carrying boxes of imported durians out of a cold-chain container and loading them onto a truck. Taking only 26 hours to complete the trip from the Laotian capital Vientiane to Kunming via the China-Laos Railway, the durians grown in Thailand will then be delivered by road to Chongqing Municipality for sale. The Kunming cargo terminal of China United International Rail Containers Co., Ltd. (CRIntermodal) is located in the China (Yunnan) Pilot Free Trade Zone (FTZ), where cargo is loaded onto and unloaded from trains using the China-Laos Railway. Since the start of this railway line's operation in December 2021, the terminal has sent more than 224,000 tonnes of cargo to Laos and received 312,600 tonnes from Laos as of Aug. 31. "Compared with road and sea transport, rail transport is cheaper and faster, saving precious logistics time for seasonal fruits," said Xu Chao, deputy general manager of the CRIntermodal Kunming branch. Workers unload durians and other tropical fruits in Kunming, southwest China's Yunnan Province, April 19, 2023. (Photo by Qin Wenlu/Xinhua) Yunnan Province shares borders with Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam. Inaugurated in 2019, the Yunnan pilot FTZ has been striving to boost connectivity between the Belt and Road and the Yangtze River Economic Belt and turn itself into an important node on the major corridor connecting South Asia and Southeast Asia. Since the establishment of its first pilot FTZ in Shanghai in September 2013, China has established an additional 20 FTZs and also the Hainan Free Trade Port. With different strategic positioning and development goals, the pilot FTZs distributed across the country have given full play to their own characteristics and advantages, achieving a host of achievements of institutional innovations, establishing a group of world-leading industrial clusters and making contributions to the high-quality development of the country. A vivid example is the continuous shortening of the negative list in the Shanghai FTZ, which has given foreign investment wider market access. Since the first pilot FTZ negative list for foreign investment was implemented in 2013, also the first of its kind in China, the number of items on the list has been cut from 190 to 27 in 2021 after seven rounds of modifications. In south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, a border area connecting China with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries, the Guangxi FTZ is striving to become a new corridor for the international land-sea trade facing ASEAN countries, as well as an important gateway linking the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road and the Silk Road Economic Belt. Liang Tong, an official with the Qinzhou Port area of the Guangxi FTZ, said the number of twenty-foot units (TEUs) handled by the port had jumped by 79.3 percent to 5.4 million in 2022 from the level in 2019. Last year, 8,820 sea-rail intermodal train trips delivered 442,000 containers, 3.9 times the figure recorded in 2019. This aerial photo taken on Feb. 23, 2023 shows the Qinzhou Port in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. (Xinhua) Lin Jiatian, a manager with the Container Business Center of Qinzhou Area of the Sinotrans Guangxi Co., Ltd., said the logistics company used to ship goods from Chongqing to Singapore via Shanghai, which took nearly 20 days. "With the rail-sea intermodal trains delivering goods here from Chongqing, the transportation time to Singapore has shortened to 9 days," said Lin, while adding that shorter logistics time has also accelerated the return of capital and eased financial pressure. Over the past 10 years, more than 300 institutional innovations have been formulated in FTZs and then replicated nationwide, covering investment facilitation, trade liberalization, financial opening-up and other fields. Further efforts will be made to upgrade the FTZs and to promote the high-quality development of the FTZs, according to the Ministry of Commerce. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) First edition copies of The Hound of the Baskervilles and Agatha Christies The Thirteen Problems, which once belonged to late Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts, set two world auction records on Thursday (28 September). The musicians extensive collection of first edition books went under the hammer at British auction house Christies as part of a specialised sale, which saw F Scott Fitzgeralds acclaimed novel The Great Gatsby, first published in 1925, receive the highest bid, at 226,800. The edition was described as "the cornerstone" of the drummers collection, while bidders gathered in the auction room were told it was the "finest" copy to be offered by Christies "in a generation". Elsewhere, a first edition of Sherlock Holmes tale The Hound Of The Baskervilles sold for 214,200, which set a new world auction record for a printed book by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. This surpasses the previous record $201,600 (165,279) for The Sign of Four, which was sold in 2022. The rare copy of The Hound of the Baskervilles sold on Thursday (28 September) was inscribed by a personal message on the title page from Conan Doyle himself, who wrote: "I perambulated Dartmoor before I wrote this book." Watts lived 10 miles from the location of the books Devonshire setting. Twenty-five Agatha Christie novels were also placed under the hammer, with an "exceptionally rare" edition of the authors 1932 mystery collection The Thirteen Problems selling for 60,480. This sale set a new world auction record for a Christie book, with the previous high being 47,880 for The ABC Murders in 2021. A first edition of The Thirteen Problems by Agatha Christie (CHRISTIE'S IMAGES LTD. 2023) The Thirteen Problems is notable for featuring the first appearance of Christies famous sleuth, Miss Marple, in the section titled "The Tuesday Night Club". Meanwhile, Wattss edition of Christies The Murder of Roger Ackroyd (1926) sold for 56,700, while his copy of The Murder at the Vicarage (1930), dedicated to the authors daughter Rosalind, sold for 34,020. Other sale highlights included first editions of Raymond Chandlers The Lady in the Lake (32,760), Dashiell Hammetts The Maltese Falcon (27,720) and Evelyn Waughs Sword of Honour trilogy, which eventually fetched 47,880 after a close bidding war. Wattss copy Waughs Brideshead Revisited also sold for 60,480. Watts, a member of The Rolling Stones since 1963, died in August 2021, aged 80. At the time of his death, his publicist Bernard Doherty told the PA news agency that the drummer passed away peacefully in a London hospital earlier today surrounded by his family. Charlie Watts plays at Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh in 2018 (Jane Barlow/PA) (PA Archive) The musician was the longest-standing member of the group alongside Jagger and guitarist Keith Richards . During his career as a drummer, Watts also curated a superb collection of works inspired by his passion for jazz and literature. As evidenced by the 127 items on sale, his love of literature leaned towards 20th-century British and American authors, with a particular interest in the crime and mystery genre. Charlie was the heartbeat of the Rolling Stones for nearly 60 years, he was totally unique and devoted to jazz and literature from boyhood, Mick Jagger, Ronnie Wood and Keith Richards said in a joint statement following his death. He was the quintessential English gentleman and his absence is a great loss for us all. We miss him hugely. (PA) Benedict Winter, specialist in books and manuscripts at Christies, said: Charlie Watts holds a unique position within music history and Christie's is proud to pay tribute to his extraordinary achievements and multifaceted legacy. Charlie built his collection of modern literature and jazz with passion, intelligence and dedication, and this two-part auction celebrates his distinguished collecting taste. Next month, The Rolling Stones will release their first album since Wattss death. While launching their 24th record, titled Hackney Diamonds, at a London event last month, Keith Richards paid tribute to his bandmate, stating:Ever since Charlies gone its different hes number four, hes missing. Of course hes missed, incredibly. A Christies auctioneer accepted a bid for a first edition copy of Sir Arthur Conan Doyles The Hound of the Baskervilles, owned by the late Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts (CHRISTIE'S IMAGES LTD. 2023) Watts has been replaced by Steve Jordan, whom Richards says the late drummer recommended if anything should happen to him. He described it as a natural progression, adding: It wouldve been a lot harder without Charlies blessing on that. However, in a poignant twist, the band revealed that Watts still managed to contribute to the album, as he can be heard performing on two tracks, Mess It Up and Live By The Sword, both recorded around 2019. Hackney Diamonds will be released on 20 October. The family of a teenage girl stabbed to death while making her way to a south London school have paid heartbreaking tribute to their beautiful 15-year-old. GCSE student Elianne Andam was on her way to Old Palace of John Whitgift School in Croydon when she was attacked and killed on Wednesday morning. Her devastated family broke their silence today revealing how their lives have been plunged into darkness following the loss of the beloved schoolgirl, who dreamed of being a lawyer after graduating from the top private school funded by her NHS nurse mother. Eliannes aunt, Marian, said the schoolgirls mother had been paying for her daughter to go to the 20,000 per year private school so she could go on to have a bright future. Have you been affected by this incident? Email barney.davis@independent.co.uk But Eliannes future has been cut short after the horror killing, which occurred on Wednesday when the teenager was reportedly stabbed in the neck after stepping in to protect her friend, who it is claimed had rejected flowers from an ex-boyfriend. A 17-year-old boy who was arrested in New Addington, south London, just over an hour after the stabbing, remains in custody under questioning by the Metropolitan Police. Police were granted a 12-hour custody extension Thursday morning to question the teenager. A post-mortem examination is due to take place on Thursday afternoon. Speaking to reporters today, the family revealed their agony of having lost the light of our lives. A spokesperson for her family said: Our hearts are broken by the senseless death of our daughter. Elianne was the light of our lives. She was bright and funny, with many friends who all adored her. She was only 15, and had her whole life ahead of her, with hopes and dreams for the future. All those dreams have now been shattered. Our lives have fallen apart, along with that of our wider family. Elianne was on her way to school (Family Handout) Dozens of bunches of flowers have been left at the scene of the teenagers death amid widespread shock at the tragedy. Police officers who were among the first at the scene and battled to try to save Elianne appeared visibly moved as they laid flowers close to where the schoolgirl died. Among the floral tributes, cards and candles, one message read: Rest in peace little princess so sad your life is taken away at your prime. You have touched my soul. You just cant comprehend the heartbreak of the last 24-hours, how Elianne went to school and never came home, Eliannes aunt Marian told Mail Online. Were a big family and we are all here for our sister, to support her, were a big family this has left us absolutely devastated. My sister is not feeling good, this only happened yesterday. It hasnt sunk in yet, its a tragedy. The teenager wanted to be a lawyer, her family said (Met Police) She wanted to be a lawyer, she went to private school paid for by my sister and had a great future ahead of her. She was a lovely girl, she loved doing her hair, had beautiful natural hair and she really loved gymnastics, her aunt told the publication. It is understood a boy tried to give a bouquet of flowers to his ex-girlfriend on a Number 60 double-decker bus packed with other schoolchildren when the tragedy unfolded. The fatal attack was launched after they got off the bus when the girl is said to have rejected the bouquet of flowers. Elianne was said to have intervened to help her friend before a boy reportedly pulled out the serrated zombie knife and plunged it into her neck. Family and friends carrying flowers gathered at her NHS specialist nurse mothers house less than half a mile away from where Elianne was fatally wounded. The scene near the Whitgift shopping centre in Croydon (PA Wire) Neighbour Rochelle Beaumont, 30, said she had been there in the aftermath of the attack and saw Eliannes body being put on a stretcher. She told The Independent: I was just taking my son on a scooter ride around Croydon when I saw all the police and people trying to revive her. My friend was with her trying to help and said she just didnt stand a chance. Her toes werent moving, she was unresponsive. He is really traumatised even though it didnt happen to him. I saw them put the tent up and I knew she didnt make it. She must have walked past me so many times, its such a small and terrible world. She was going to a good school, had her whole life ahead of her and then that happens. I have six boys myself and Im scared to let them out of the house. Some 15 young people have been killed in stabbings or shootings so far this year (PA) Emergency services were called to Wellesley Road, near the Whitgift shopping centre, at around 8.30am on Wednesday after receiving reports that the schoolgirl had been stabbed. She was initially helped by a bus driver and a passer-by until the arrival of paramedics, but despite efforts to save her, she was pronounced dead 40 minutes later. Witnesses reported paramedics battling to save her life, while two other schoolgirls, believed to be her friends, attempted to get through the police barriers. People arrive to pay their respects at the scene (James Manning/PA) Speaking to The Independent, Katia Brito, 22, said: I arrived at the scene at 9.02am and the two buses had stopped. The tent was up and emergency services were trying to keep her alive. Kids were running under the underpass. Anthony King, chair of My Ends a project helping combat youth violence in Croydon, was with the girls family after the incident and said they were heartbroken. He added: She had a bright future ahead of her. She was in her GCSE year. Mr King described the girl as an absolutely incredible young lady and told of how others said she was jovial, very comedic. Earlier on Thursday, pastor Lorraine Jones told Sky News that the weapon reportedly used to slash her neck reminded her of the blade that took the life of her own son. You cant imagine the scale of fear and anxiety in our young girls, she told Kay Burley. This will continue until we support the grassroots. I lost my son. I know what [her mother] is going through. I pray she can survive this and she can. I know the father is going through pain too. She urged the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan for additional funding for local anti-crime groups. Scotland Yard confirmed the suspect knew the victim adding: Further enquiries are taking place to establish their exact relationship. A number of police vehicles cordoned off the Route 60 bus, which had been heading towards Streatham Station, while forensic officers continue to examine the scene. Police said officers were confident Elianne was attacked near the bus stop in Wellesley Road rather than on board a bus. Police officers lay flowers at the scene in Croydon (James Manning/PA) DCI Rebecca Woodsford, who is leading the investigation, said: My thoughts and the thoughts of my team are with Eliannes family. This is a deeply upsetting time for them and we will do everything we can to support them. Our investigation continues and we are making good progress. We have recovered CCTV from the area and have spoken to a number of witnesses. Forensic scientists have also examined the scene. From these enquiries, we are now confident Elianne was attacked outside in Wellesley Road near to the bus stop rather than onboard the bus. We know many people were in the area at the time and would have witnessed the attack. This would have been distressing and traumatic and I would encourage anyone who needs support to contact us and we will help to arrange this. Anyone who witnessed the attack or has information that can help officers is asked to call police via 101 quoting reference CAD 1601/27Sep. To remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. 5 takeaways from the second GOP debate Seven Republican presidential contenders took to the stage at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif., on Wednesday for the second GOP debate, sparring over their records in lively back-and-forths. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis , former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley , former Vice President Mike Pence , Sen. Tim Scott (S.C.), biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy , former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum qualified for the second debate. Former President Trump skipped the second debate to talk to current and former union workers in addition to nonunion workers in Michigan. The debate at times grew heated, often making it difficult for the moderators to control the discussion. Its unclear if the second GOP debate will move the needle enough to narrow the gap between Trump and any of the candidates. Here are five takeaways from the second GOP debate: Trumps shadow hangs over debate The absence of Trump, the GOP fields front-runner, was felt as his fellow competitors sparred on the debate stage, with some candidates calling him out on his lack of participation directly. Donald Trump is missing in action. He should be on this stage tonight, DeSantis said. Christie looked into the camera to send a message to the former president. I know youre watching, okay? And youre not here tonight not because of polls and not because of your indictments. Youre not here tonight because youre afraid of being on this stage and defending your record, Christie said to Trump. Youre ducking these things. And let me tell you whats going to happen, you keep doing that, no one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore, were gonna call you Donald Duck, Christie said. Trump skipped the first debate in Milwaukee last month and passed on the second Simi Valley stage, opting instead to give remarks in Michigan as counterprogramming on Wednesday night. Hes cited his significant lead in polls over the rest of the Republican field and what he says is a hostile relationship with Fox as reasons for forgoing the debates. Hes campaigning amid multiple ongoing legal battles, including four criminal indictments, which havent seemed to impact his front-runner status leaving his fellow competitors racing to catch up with him. Moderators struggle to keep control The moderators in the second debate struggled at times to control the seven Republican presidential candidates on stage, who often spoke over one another when responding to questions. Several of those candidates such as Scott and Burgum faced pressure to interject themselves during the second debate after taking a more hands-off approach and relying on the moderators to call on them during the first GOP debate. We have all these questions, were gonna get to you, were gonna come back to you. Theres a lot of time, Fox Newss Dana Perino told Burgum after the North Dakota governor tried to insert himself into the debate and talk about child care. You asked about child care; nobody answered the question, Burgum responded as he sought to elaborate on his answer. After several moments, Perino interrupted him again, saying, We will get you some questions, but youre gonna have to let us move on. Later, Scott and Ramaswamy got into a back-and-forth over Ramaswamys ties to China. When we have the conversation about the things that are happening on this stage, we think about the fact that Vivek just said that we were all good people and I appreciate that because last debate, he said we were all bought and paid for, Scott said. And I thought about that for a little while, and said, you know, I cant imagine how you could say that, knowing that you were just in business with the Chinese Communist Party, and the same people that funded Hunter Biden millions of dollars was a partner of yours as well, he added before Ramaswamy hit back, saying, nonsense. These are good people who are tainted by a broken system, Ramaswamy said before Scott interjected, leading to a back-and-forth between multiple candidates. Excuse me, excuse me, Ramaswamy said as he tried to speak again, visibly annoyed. Ramaswamy tries to reboot The 38-year-old GOP millennial sought a more amicable approach during the second debate, including surprisingly praising some of his contenders a departure during the first debate when he clashed with candidates like Pence, Haley and Christie. Artificial division is unhelpful in our party. The real divide is not between the Republicans on this stage and in the Reagan Library; I want to say these are good people on this stage, Ramaswamy said. The real divide is between the majority of us in this country who love the United States of America and share our founding ideals free speech, meritocracy, the idea you get ahead in this country, not in the color of your skin, but in the content of your character and the fringe minority in the Democrat Party that has a chokehold over that party thats the real divide, he continued. Yet Ramaswamys efforts were not reciprocated by some of his rivals. Haley ripped into Ramaswamy after he defended his decision to join TikTok despite previously having misgivings about the app. This is infuriating because TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media apps that we could have. And what youve got I honestly every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber for what you say, Haley fired at Ramaswamy. Scott shakes off Mr. Nice Guy image Scott has been running a largely positive bid for the presidency and maintained a Mr. Nice Guy image during the first debate last month. But on the Simi Valley stage, the South Carolina senator assumed a more aggressive stance, after he faced calls following the first debate to try a more assertive approach to stake his place in the crowded field. He and Pence went after Ramaswamy for his business ties to China and sparred with Haley over his fellow South Carolinians prior support for raising the gas tax as governor. Talk about someone who has never seen a federal dollar she doesnt like, he said. Scott also knocked DeSantis for defending Florida curriculum standards on teaching slavery, stressing there is no redeeming quality to slavery and taking a swipe at DeSantis and Vice President Harris. Nobody on stage wins The second debate was seen as another critical opportunity for non-Trump candidates to catch up with the front-runner. But a clear winner didnt emerge. Some polling after the first debate indicated voters thought DeSantis and Ramaswamy performed best, while Haley saw a boost in support. Pence was also seen as a strong performer at the first debate, and Ramaswamy took up airtime as the target of some contentious exchanges. But Trump, even in his absence, took center stage throughout the debate. Its now obvious that if you all stay in the race, former President Donald Trump wins the nomination, Fox News host Dana Perino said in the last question of the night, asking candidates to name a fellow competitor on stage who should be voted off the island. DeSantis, Haley and others protested and the question was left unanswered. Christie said hed vote Trump off the island right now, again calling the former president out for his decision not to take the stage. DeSantis shook off Trumps lead. Polls dont elect presidents; voters elect presidents, he said. Yet, candidates will face increasing pressure in the coming weeks to drop out and consolidate around a smaller number of candidates as the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary steadily approach. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Service members have told government auditors about rampant problems in their barracks to include mold, broken heating and air conditioning systems, cramped rooms, overflowing sewage and much more but not all service branches are asking troops about those living conditions. Service members have a lot to say and are eager for someone to listen, said Elizabeth Field, director of the Government Accountability Offices defense capabilities and management team. It will take years to address the chronic neglect and underfunding we uncovered, she told members of the House Armed Services Committees quality of life panel Wednesday, After listening to Fields testimony, lawmakers said they want to know why some troops are living in such poor conditions, how much funding is needed to fix the problem, and how to ensure better oversight and accountability. The recent GAO audit of 10 military barracks revealed that DoD has neither adequate information about the condition of barracks nor a complete understanding of how the poor conditions affect morale. Military members could have let them know. Mold was a common complaint, Fields said. She quoted one service member who said, Mold in the barracks makes you feel expendable, like we dont matter. Malfunctioning heating and air conditioning systems are another problem. One Marine said, I often wake up at night sweating from the heat, itching from bedbugs and feeling like I am suffocating, " Field said. Safety is also an issue. Some troops reported that their barracks room doors dont lock, with one member alleging that sexual assaults happen more often than people think, Field said. Poor oversight leaves military barracks in dire condition, report says Ask the troops Among the GAOs 31 recommendations for improving barracks: DoD should require the services to survey troops in their unaccompanied housing in a consistent and comparable way. The Navy and the Marine Corps are the only two services that survey service members about the quality of their barracks, and none of the services ask whether the condition of their barracks affects their decision about whether to reenlist, Field said. Their reasons? Some service officials told GAO that troops living in barracks arent reliable when it comes to completing surveys or replying to email and telephone inquiries, so it isnt worth trying to solicit their opinions. Other officials told us that the condition of the barracks is not a key factor in military retention and therefore doesnt merit inclusion as a topic in already lengthy surveys, she said. Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., a retired Air Force brigadier general who heads up the military quality of life panel, noted that he served as base commander at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, and Offutt Air Force Base in his home state. If these conditions had been present in his barracks, he would have been fired, he said. Where has the accountability been? he asked. We need to put our finger on it and get it fixed. We cant allow the situation to persist. Its an issue not only of justice and dignity, but also of military readiness. When service members are preoccupied with their health and safety, they cannot focus on their mission. When the new panel began its work, Bacon assumed that they were going to hear primarily about service members and food insecurity. But as they visit bases, weve actually heard more from our military members and family members about the quality of housing and the housing allowance, he said. Theres an urgent need for DoD to implement oversight of our unaccompanied housing and to continue steadfastly in their mission to ensure military families in privatized housing are taken care of, he said. Barracks at Fort Moore, Ga., have been selected for the Army's Smart Barracks program, with plans to implement changes across many installations. The initiative aims to increase efficiency and raise morale. No quick fix Barracks problems are the direct result of many years of not looking closely at deferred maintenance, the investment, said Carla Coulson, deputy assistant secretary of the Army for installations, housing and partnerships. So, now we are, in effect, playing catch up. Service officials testified that they recognize there are significant problems and are taking steps to address the GAOs recommendations. A year ago, the Army inspected every room of every barracks building, Coulson said. The Army has committed to spending at least $1 billion a year on barracks, she said. From fiscal 2024 through FY 2028, the service can address 113 of the 300 barracks buildings in poor or failing condition, Coulson said. But it will take $6.5 billion in addition to what theyre already spending to address all the problems. If barracks renovations and repairs arent fully funded, however, the Army will see 110 barracks in good or adequate condition slide down into the poor or failing category. We dont make much progress unless we ensure were doing preventive maintenance, she said. Auditors found there was more sense of ownership of the barracks issue at the installation level. We spoke to a number of installation commanders who told us they felt sick about the conditions their junior enlisted service members were living in, Field said. They often recounted facing impossible choices between where to put limited funding. At one installation, she said, officials requested funds for a new barracks for 10 years in a row and never got the money. Thats, in part, why installation commanders are throwing up their hands, she said. One aspect that troubled the auditors was that defense officials very much had a hands-off approach to this topic, Field said. At that level, officials couldnt answer basic questions: How many barracks are there? Do they comply with standards? How many service members live in unaccompanied housing? DoD needs to gather the information it needs such as the condition of barracks to make more strategic decisions about where to put limited resources, Field said. The department also needs to put uniform barracks standards in place. At th same time, the services need to reevaluate policies on who is required to live in barracks. Facility criticality needs a whole new approach, said Robert Thompson, principal deputy assistant secretary of the Navy for energy, installations and environment. The fact that these are their homes makes it mission critical. The services have been talking with defense officials about the need to identify livability standards for barracks, he said. Airman Brody Yates, 628th Civil Engineer Squadron structural apprentice, left, sands drywall as Tech. Sgt. Jason Goss, 28th CES structural craftsman,applies joint compound at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, in March 2021. CESs maintain and repair all base facilities. (Staff Sgt. David Owsianka/Air Force) Its clear we have significant work ahead in our unaccompanied housing to provide safe, clean, reliable, comfortable and dignified places for our sailors and Marines to call home, he said. If DoD fails to implement all of GAOs recommendations in a meaningful and timely manner, Field said the adency would encourage Congress to put them into law. Bacon pointed to the roll Congress has played over the past few years to improve privatized family housing, passing legislation to address persistent problems. I think we have to do the same thing for our barracks, he said. Were going to put a focus on it, a spotlight on it. But the services also have to tell us what they need. By Felix Light GORIS, Armenia (Reuters) - Albert Petrosyan strapped his son's wheelchair and a few bags to the roof of his ancient Russian-made car ahead of another long drive after fleeing his home in Nagorno-Karabakh this week and spending just one night in a hotel in this Armenian town. Petrosyan, 71, his wife Geghetsik, 65, and their 30-year-old son Agasi, who uses a wheelchair and has severe learning difficulties, are among more than 70,000 ethnic Armenians to have fled Karabakh so far since Azerbaijani forces retook the mountainous region last week in a lightning offensive. "We will never return (to Karabakh). We'll never be able to," said Petrosyan, a retired mechanic. "It's impossible to live with Azeris." Ethnic Armenian authorities in Karabakh said on Thursday they were dissolving the breakaway statelet they had defended for three decades. Karabakh is viewed internationally as part of Azerbaijan, but is populated mainly by ethnic Armenians. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has promised to protect the rights of Karabakh's 120,000 Christian Armenians but most are expected to leave due to deep-rooted ethnic enmity with the mainly Muslim Azeris, exacerbated by memories of war in 1988-94 and again in 2020, when Baku's forces retook parts of Karabakh. HOME ABANDONED Petrosyan said his family had been pushed to the limit over the past 10 months due to an Azerbaijani blockade of Karabakh that had led to chronic shortages of food, fuel and medicines "A pack of cigarettes cost five thousand dram ($12) and you could hardly find them," he said. "The shops were empty." After last week's Azeri victory, Petrosyan crammed his Zhiguli estate car with as much as he could, including the toolbox he had used to make a living, and the family began the 77-km drive to the border over two days along with tens of thousands of other frightened refugees. Abandoning their four-room house and 1,000 square metre plot of land in Stepanakert, the capital of Karabakh, was very hard. "We built our home so that everything would be nice for him (their son)," said Petrosyan's wife Geghetsik, through tears. "I won't be able to find a flat now that will be good for him." Armenia has made hotel accommodation available in Goris and other towns for the refugees, but Petrosyan said they would move on, first to Armenia's capital Yerevan, but were unlikely to stay there as his 61,000 Armenian dram ($157) monthly pension would not be enough to live in the city. He said they would probably stay with relatives who live in a village near Lake Sevan in central Armenia. Armenia has blamed its ally Russia, preoccupied with the war in Ukraine, for not doing anything to help stop the Azeri offensive. But Petrosyan said he believed Turkey, a close ally of Azerbaijan with which it shares close linguistic and cultural ties, was ultimately behind the defeat of the Armenian state in Karabakh. "It's the Turks' policy. They wanted to kick us out," he said. Armenia, backed by historians and the parliaments of many countries, says mass killings of Armenians by Ottoman Turks during World War One amounted to genocide, a charge strongly denied by Turkey. Turkey's President Tayyip Erdogan, who backed Azerbaijan's offensive, has called for a comprehensive peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan. (Writing by Gareth Jones; Editing by Ros Russell) Thomas Ingram Jr. of Florida was found guilty of 15 counts of indecent liberties with a minor. A Florida man was convicted of 15 counts of indecent liberties with a child in Brunswick County Superior Court and could spend the next 65 years in prison. According to a news release from District Attorney Jon David's office, Thomas Ingram Jr. was found guilty after a bench trial. The charges stemmed from incidents that occurred from 2009 to 2014. During that time, Ingram was living in Calabash and was accused of molesting a girl, who was 5 to 10 years old when the incidents occurred. The news release states that after the marriage ended, Ingram returned to his home state of Florida, and the girl told her mother what had occurred. Her mother contacted the Brunswick County Sheriff's Office, where detective Zachary Stanley opened an investigation. Ingram was later arrested and extradited back to North Carolina to stand trial for the crimes. After Ingram was found guilty, Senior Resident Superior Court Judge Ashley Gore sentenced Ingram to a minimum of 50 years and a maximum of 65 years in prison for the crimes. Ingram will also be required to register as a sex offender and will be subject to satellite-monitoring upon his release, the release states. This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Florida man found guilty of child sex crimes in Brunswick County Florida leads the nation in strict building codes, and the decades of hard work have paid off in the increasing number of homes and buildings that survive each time a hurricane slashes the state. But a new report from Swiss Re, a major global re-insurance company, suggests that all those hard-won gains have been undermined by the explosion of growth along the coast. And that has likely helped fuel the skyrocketing price of wind-storm insurance across the state. One year ago, Hurricane Ian struck Southwest Florida as a powerful Category 4 that wiped whole blocks off the map along the coast and damaged homes and roofs miles inland. Its the most expensive storm in the states history. If that same storm had struck in the 1970s, the Swiss Re report said, it would have caused half or even a third as much damage as it did. An aerial view of the homes damaged by Hurricane Ian in the vicinity of Fort Myers. And while building codes have improved dramatically since 2002, when the updated standards went statewide, the biggest driver behind Ians outsize impact was just how many people now live in the strike zone. Our models show a clear imbalance: Reducing vulnerability by strengthening building codes, a key element of adaptation, has been insufficient since the 1970s to compensate for expected losses from accompanying population-driven property value growth, the report, released Monday, read. We do know how to build better Some building code experts disagreed with pointing the finger at sprawling growth along the coast for the soaring damage losses and insurance premiums. They argue its the states aging housing stock that is most vulnerable and newer homes and upgraded old ones have endured high winds better and helped reduce risks. I dont think theyre equal forces, said Leslie Chapman-Henderson, president of FLASH, or the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes. Weve seen the survival of even the most affordable homes in the path of these storms. Dorothy Mazzarella, vice president for government relations for the International Code Council, said her key takeaway from the report is the recognition that better building codes work. She said people will always want to live along Floridas coastline, no matter how vulnerable it is or how expensive it gets to live there so the answer is to better prepare for future storms. We have to do more on the front end, which is the mitigation side, Mazzarella said. We cant prevent them, but we know we can prepare for them. The front of a Mercedes Benz convertible sticks out of a pool in the back yard of a home on Estero Boulevard Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022. The car ended up in the pool after Hurricane Ian slammed into the area as a Category 4 storm Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022. However, Chapman-Henderson added, relying on new construction to strengthen the states risky spots only addresses a small part of the problem. Older homes, built before effective hurricane-resistant building codes kicked in, make up the majority of Floridas housing stock. In the areas touched by Ians winds alone, about 69% of the properties were built before 2000, according to the Wall Street Journals review of census data and National Hurricane Center records. And fixing them is more complicated than simply building a new home from scratch. On borrowed time. Why coastal Florida keeps rebuilding after storms like Hurricane Ian In Lee County, theres been a backlash against bringing storm-damaged homes all the way up to the newest version of the code, a pricey endeavor that may involve elevating it several feet. Unfortunately, this is the clash of whats affordable and whats achievable and whats ideal, Chapman-Henderson said. We do know how to build in the face of these disasters that cost millions of dollars. We have to maintain the will to do so on a consistent basis. Stronger homes, cheaper insurance So would fortifying every single property in risky areas solve this problem? Not exactly, said Erdem Karaca, head of catastrophe perils in the Americas for Swiss Re and co-author of the report. While more and more homes and buildings are better prepared for storms, packing in a much higher volume of people just increases the number of chances something could go wrong. New study warns of climate insurance bubble. Is that driving costs up in Florida? Karaca points to the many pool screens destroyed on homes miles inland from Hurricane Ian. Yes, he said, the homes may have been in good shape, but all those little damages still up, and theyre why wind is the number one threat from an insurance perspective, while storm surge remains the biggest threat to life. The more people live there, the more pools we have, it tallies up, he said. A damaged home caused by Hurricane Ian seen along Fort Myers Beach on Monday, October 3, 2022. Insurance premiums are based, in part, on the risk in an entire area. So if that risk is constantly rising, the premiums will too. But if enough homes and buildings are safe from storms, that could potentially drive down the risk, and therefore insurance costs, said Matt Junge, the head of property underwriting in the U.S. for Swiss Re. For insurance companies to provide insurance, they have to have confidence theyre going to predict whats going to happen, he said. Floridas biggest insurer wants 14% rate hike, warns of hurricane tax if big storm hits Junge said he was optimistic that Floridas recent efforts to curtail another issue in the market, the glut of fraudulent lawsuits, was going to help bring premiums down eventually. And he said that the more Florida can strengthen its housing stock, the more that trend can continue. Itll take some time, he cautioned. Just because you can doesnt mean you should The report also took into account another factor affecting coastal storms in Florida climate change. Karaca and his co-author found that the increasingly warmer ocean, which is linked to stronger and wetter hurricanes, could have also played a role in making Hurricane Ian a worse storm than a similar one in 1970, when waters were cooler. And that impact, plus the massive population gains in Southwest Florida, significantly outweighs the last twenty years of stricter building practices. That puts Floridas coastline in the cross-hairs of even stronger storms in the future, with a whole lot more people there to experience them. That gives Vivian Young, communications director for 1,000 Friends of Florida, a smart growth advocacy group, pause. She praised the states commitment to building better, but wondered how far that can really take us. Makeshift signs are displayed in front of a damaged home caused by Hurricane Ian in St. James City, an unincorporated community, on Pine Island on Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2022. Storms dont just impact homes, they rip up roads, crack water pipes and flood government buildings. Recovering from a storm comes at a high cost to taxpayers, both locally and federally. And in Florida, plenty of that risk is insured through public-run, deeply subsidized programs like Citizens, the state-run insurer of last resort. Were kind of punting the problem down the road a bit, she said. Taxpayers are paying through Citizens or the National Flood Insurance Program for rebuilding in these vulnerable areas, but is that really the best option? Climate change is increasing the chances of stronger and more deadly storms, and sea level rise could permanently inundate swaths of Floridas coastline, making it inconvenient and expensive to live there. What we know and dont about how climate change impacts hurricanes like Ian Young said the technology may be out there to help homes withstand even the strongest winds from a powerful hurricane, but the cost of insuring a home that weathers an extreme storm, or even moderate flooding, regularly could become too much for homeowners, or even banks. I think the state is reaching a tipping point and theres going to have to be a really serious conversation about where its appropriate to develop, where we should be redeveloping and whether we should live in certain areas at all, she said. Its like the old adage with new cutting-edge technology, she said. Just because you can doesnt mean you should. A school district in Florida has removed all books with LGBTQ+ characters, themes, and storylines from libraries available to elementary and middle school students. A document from the Charlotte County School District obtained by the advocacy group Florida Freedom to Read directs librarians in the district to remove from their libraries and media centers all books with references to LGBTQ+ characters and themes. The district later told Popular Info the removal only applied to libraries and media centers accessible to students in grades K-8 and was in accordance with the states dont say gay Parental Rights in Education Act. While the move appears at odds with assurances made by Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody that the law applied only to books used in classrooms, the district claimed the ban was legal because their libraries and media centers sometimes doubled as classrooms. This is exactly what we said would happen when they passed the Dont Say Gay laws, Nikki Fried, chairperson of the Florida Democratic Party, said in a statement denouncing the move. (@) The document dated July 24, described as a training document by PEN America and as a summary or recap of the conversation between Charlotte County Superintendent Mark Vianello and district librarians by the district, contained a list of questions and topics and their resolutions. No, these characters and themes cannot exist, the staff member wrote in the document in response to one question regarding LGBTQ+ content in student activities. The advocacy group PEN America said the districts policy was in direct conflict with the stated policy of the DeSantis administration. In a motion dated August 4 in the case of Parnell v. School Board of Lake County, Florida, PEN America noted Attorney General Ashley Moody's assertion that HB 1557s meaning is clear: It applies to formal classroom instruction, not library books[.] Logs obtained by Florida Freedom to Read and published by Popular Info showed the ban included the books The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky and The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini among others. The books were removed on July 24, the same date as the document. Books with LGBTQ+ characters and themes should be celebrated, not shunned just like LGBTQ+ Floridians should be every day, Fried wrote of the ban. PUTNAM COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) A 16-year-old girl who was struck by lightning while hunting with her father in Florida Tuesday has died, authorities said. Baylee Holbrook and her father, Matthew Holbrook, were hunting in the woods in Putnam County on Sept. 26 when lightning struck a tree, hitting both of them, according to a press release from the Putnam County Sheriffs Office. Michael Gambon, who played Dumbledore in later Harry Potter films, dies at 82: publicist The strike caused Matthew to fall unconscious, and when he awoke, he discovered that his daughter wasnt breathing. Matthew called 911 and started CPR until rescue personnel arrived. The teen was taken to a trauma center, where she was listed in critical condition. Pray for my baby. Every single person put your knees on the ground and pray, Matthew Holbrook posted on Facebook Tuesday. The sheriffs office also said they were rallying around the teen and her family. We stand with our community as we rally for this teen. She has proven a fighter and our prayers extend to her, her family and friends, the sheriffs office wrote. On Thursday, deputies gave a tragic update, announcing that Baylee had peacefully passed away surrounded by her family at 9:32 a.m. Baylee, a student at Palatka Junior-Senior High School, was described as having touched many lives. Prior to her passing, the school held a prayer around their flagpole for the teen on Wednesday. Remains of missing mother Suzanne Morphew found during unrelated search Baylee Holbrook you have touched many lives and you still have many to touch, Bryanna Hall, who attended the prayer event, wrote in a Facebook post. Everyone please continue to pray for her, family, and friends. Trinity Baptist Church in Palatka held a community gathering for Baylee on Thursday afternoon. At the time of the incident, the sheriffs office warned residents that theyd seen an increase in lightning strikes in the area. They also reminded the community that storms can come quickly and lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from any rainfall. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. Viral rap duo Flyana Boss dropped their latest track, B***h Imma Star, along with an official lyric video Wednesday. They are also releasing another single on Friday titled Big One, after teasing the forthcoming song on Instagram earlier this week. B***h Imma Star is about claiming your own stardom! Flyana Ross said in an official press release. Theres been so many times when people told us we werent ready or couldnt do something, so this is us telling them B***h Imma Star! B***h Imma Star is the highly anticipated follow-up single to their viral hit You Wish, which debuted at No. 1 on Spotifys Viral 100 and even gained worldwide attention from Grammy-winning hip-hop legends Missy Elliott and Timbaland. Since its release, You Wish has garnered over 25 million streams on the digital music service. Their colorful TikTok video for You Wish that was posted over the summer received over 10 million views, which helped push the singles popularity over the edge. Their music is all about embracing ones individuality and uplifting others. The duo, Bobbi LaNea and Folayan, met at a music college in Los Angeles, where they immediately hit it off and began collaborating. Their moniker, Flyana Boss, pays homage to the original diva Diana Ross and represents the Vagina Dynasty while embodying the spirit of flyness and bossness. Together, Flyana Boss pushes the boundaries of contemporary hip-hop, effortlessly switching between different styles and genres for added depth to their one-of-a-kind sound. The Flyana Boss rappers are special guests on Janelle Monaes The Age of Pleasure Tour, making stops across the U.S. through mid-October. They will also perform at Australias SXSW Sydney, the first-ever international edition of the famed Austin, Texas, music festival, and the music events will take place Oct. 18-21. Check out Flyana Boss new lyric video for their latest single, B***h Imma Star, below! Liam and his 3- to 5-year-old classmates sat around a large picnic table in the Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve, feet dangling from the bench, as they learned about the life cycle of frogs. Meanwhile, nearby mammals were close enough to overhear how their amphibian counterparts lay eggs rather than give birth to live young. Liam was able to multitask, watching a pack of deer graze while absorbing the traits of a tadpole, which has gills before it transforms into a frog with lungs. You know what else has gills? A fish and shark, Liam, 3, declared. This was a typical day at the Cross Timbers Forest Preschool in Southlake, a suburb about 30 minutes northeast of Fort Worth. The nature-focused program run by the citys Community Services Department includes hiking, storytime and discovery with 70% of the day being spent outside. One child can enroll up to two days a week in the 15-week program, which spans from 9 a.m. to noon Tuesday through Friday. We have a mixture of families who participate in our program. Our goal is to create a world-class experience for all of our campers and allowing them to come twice a week allows us to include more students, said Vicky Schiber, Southlakes community relations manager. Cross Timbers Forest Preschool teacher Delaney Garcia shows the class a frog at the preschool at the Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve in Southlake on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023. Children get standard classroom education along with learning on trails and in the forest. The class normally walks a mile a day to study nature. The concept of getting children outdoors to play and learn isnt new, but Cross Timbers publicly-run, multiweek program is notable among a patchwork of similar nature-based programs in the area offered by private organizations or that cater to homeschool families. The desire for these programs is growing in the Tarrant County area, experts say, but more staffing, public land and marketing of existing programs is needed. Kathy Dorris remembers when her son, now 31 years old, attended the Fort Worth Zoos preschool program, which is currently offered September through May to children ages 3 to 5. Now, as the zoos director of education, shes helped oversee the expansion of the long-running program with an additional, parallel program known as Natures Navigators that includes longer learning days with a focus on 4- and 5-year-olds. Natures Navigators is starting its third year with classes that span five hours with more broad topics such as comparing humans and animals sense of sight. Preschool program classes are three hours and focus on a new animal each week, starting with aquatic animals and working toward flying animals. We just saw the need, and (parents) wanted something more extensive, Dorris said of Natures Navigators. As children learned about the life cycle of a frog they played a game at Cross Timbers Forest Preschool at the Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve in Southlake on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023. The game was much like musical chairs except they hopped and danced around lily pads drawn on the concrete. Julie Neville, the zoos education program coordinator, said conversations shes had with parents have highlighted a growing desire for outdoor learning that gets children away from screens. As a result, some families enrolled in these programs have decided to go toward a homeschool route, or something that strays from a typical school route. (Parents) are like, I want to find something where my childs outdoors, being outside and not on the screen so much, getting out in nature. I think a lot of parents are feeling that thats something they want for their children and their families, Neville said. Rose McKinney, a mom of four boys who has enrolled each of them in the preschool program since 2013, drives from Cedar Hill to the zoo once a week to bring her 4-year-old son to the program, she said. The drive is worth it, considering her familys history with the program and the trust and familiarity thats been built with the teachers there. I think that theres so much value in fresh air and being able to move instead of being stuck in a classroom all day, McKinney said. We also liked that it is a little bit more experiential learning instead of academic heavy theyre able to learn concepts through real-life examples instead of just textbooks. It would be cool if the public schools and other organizations were able to mimic that and provide a little bit more of a holistic approach to education, she added. Cross Timbers Forest Preschool teacher Andrea Smith watches Evelyn and William play with magnetic building blocks at the school at the Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve in Southlake on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023. Children get standard classroom education along with learning on trails and in the forest. Benefits and accessibility of outdoors Children who regularly play and learn outside are healthier both physically and mentally, said Sarah Coles, executive director of the Texas Children in Nature Network. Physically, natural environments yield stronger bone and muscle development and benefit childrens sense of balance and depth perception when interacting with those spaces, she said. Emotionally, childrens social development evolves when connecting with their peers, and rates of depression and anxiety have been shown to be reduced with outdoor time. Its not a cure-all, but it really makes a huge, positive impact in terms of kids growth and development, Coles said. Cross Timbers Forest Preschool class took the Bluebird Trail for their outside activity at the Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve in Southlake on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023. The class normally walks a mile a day to study nature. One of the obstacles of getting children outside, though, is accessibility to parks and green spaces, as Texas has a small percentage of lands available to the public, she added. Ideally, children should live within a 10-minute walk or mile of a park. Proposition 14 in the Nov. 7 Texas constitutional amendments election could be a step forward in addressing this gap if approved by voters. It would create the centennial parks conservation fund that would be dedicated to buying more land for the state parks system. This is one of the initiatives Texas Children in Nature Network supports for accessibility to green spaces, but there are other layers to the issue that the nonprofit is addressing as well. This includes making sure parks can be enjoyed by people living with disabilities by building accessible pathways, for example. Were also thinking about the comfortability in the outdoors in terms of, Do people feel safe? Do they feel welcome in those outdoor spaces that are near them as well? Coles said. Cross Timbers Forest Preschool teacher Blake Cornish helps Evelyn retrieve a horse apple from a tree to study at the Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve in Southlake on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023. For the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge, which hosts summer camps for children in kindergarten through fifth grade, better public transportation could help improve accessibility to the 3,621-acre site, said Michael Perez, natural scientist supervisor. The park is one of the largest city-owned nature centers in the U.S. Were just kind of on the outskirts of Fort Worth if you will. Theres no transportation out here, so that can be a limiting factor for some, he said. Public transportation to get out here would help. Additionally, improved marketing to let people know about the nature center, its programs and the concept of outdoor education would be helpful, Perez said. In terms of expanding its childrens programs to younger ages, the main obstacle is staffing, he added. But in the upcoming spring or next school year, the nature center could be starting a new program on Mondays for homeschooled children. That would be our way of expanding our program to homeschool groups and or early childhood, he said. Were trying to see how we can get that done, but its all going to be based on, can we get more staff or can we manipulate schedules where it would work in our favor to do that, he said. Theres an interest in that being available to the community. Ten children hiked through the forest at Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve as part of Cross Timbers Forrest Preschool in Southlake on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023. A complaint alleges that Joshua Rist, 35, who was then a choir teacher at McNary, groomed and abused two women between 2015 and 2020. Two former McNary High School students have filed a $10 million lawsuit against Salem-Keizer Public Schools and one of its teachers alleging the district failed to protect them from the teacher. The complaint alleges that Joshua Rist, 35, who was then a choir teacher at McNary, groomed and abused the women between 2015 and 2020. Salem-Keizer spokesman Aaron Harada said the district does not comment on pending litigation. "The district is aware of and fully cooperated in the investigation by both law enforcement and TSPC," Harada said. Rist did not respond to the Statesman Journals interview request Wednesday afternoon. District officials sent a formal misconduct report to the Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission in June 2021. TSPC also received an Oregon Department of Human Services report alleging the same misconduct. On June 8, 2023, Rist stipulated to certain facts, meaning he agreed that evidence would support the commission's findings that Rist established inappropriate personal relationships with the two women while they were students at McNary. TSPC concluded Rist had engaged in gross neglect of duty. As part of the stipulation, Rist received a 60-day license suspension and three years' probation. He served his suspension during the summer break, while he was paid by the district, according to the lawsuit. Rist now is working as choir teacher at Kalapuya Elementary School in West Salem. Lawsuit allegations The women are referred to Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2 in the lawsuit. The lawsuit alleges that Rist gave the two women extra attention in an effort to befriend them, gaining their trust and that of their families. He sent "inappropriate and unsolicited" communications on the school messaging platform and via text messages, and met with them outside of school and off school grounds, according to the lawsuit. According to the lawsuit, plaintiffs each confided in defendant Rist about struggles, trauma and difficult situations they were dealing with. At no time did defendant Rist direct plaintiffs to school counselors, one of whom was defendant Rists own wife. Instead, he chose to use that information to further manipulate and groom plaintiffs. The lawsuit states that both women at separate times served as Rist's teaching assistant during his preparatory period when no one else was present. He discussed with them topics that included sexual experiences, adultery, polyamory and pornography, according to the lawsuit. According to the TSPCs stipulation of facts, which Rist agreed to, Rists relationship with one student included discussions about her prior sexual assault by another student, commenting on her personal appearance, meeting her outside of school for discussions about cult mentality and references to the Rajneesh movement, and discussing his personal and marital life. According to the stipulation of facts, Rists relationship included telling one of the students that he loved her in messages and in person, holding and squeezing her hand during high-fives at school functions, discussing topics of a personal nature, including the students sexual orientation, and discussing his personal and marital life. The lawsuit goes further than the facts Rist agreed to, alleging that during a choir performance at the Elsinore Theater during one woman's sophomore year, Rist brushed his hand along her breasts. The lawsuit alleges sexual abuse of a child, negligence and battery. It alleges that Rist had a prior history of grooming while he was employed at Hermiston High School, and the district knew or should have known about that prior behavior. "The district had the opportunity to prevent the abuse, yet unreasonably chose not to do so," the lawsuit states, and then goes on to say that the district's decision to retain Rist and put him into a school with even younger children at Kalapuya has caused the women additional anxiety and fear for the students. In a news release, the women stated they were appalled to realize that Rist was still teaching in the district. In its suspension and probation order, TSPC wrote: Rist successfully completed the NASDTEC Academy Prevention and Correction course on Jan. 17, 2023. He accepts responsibility for his overly personal interactions with some students, better understands where to draw professional boundary lines and has changed his professional practices accordingly. Tracy Loew covers education at the Statesman Journal. Send comments, questions and tips: tloew@statesmanjournal.com or 503-399-6779. Follow her on Twitter at @Tracy_Loew This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Former McNary students sue district, teacher for alleged sexual abuse A former Paterson resident was sentenced to more than two years in prison for bank fraud conspiracy charges, federal officials announced Wednesday. Brandon Mancebo, 24, had already pleaded guilty during a videoconference to possession of stolen mail and conspiracy to commit bank fraud, according to U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger. District Judge Kevin McNulty imposed the sentence in Newark federal court on Wednesday. Mancebo and others conspired to break into U.S. Postal Service collection boxes in Bergen, Hudson and Morris counties and steal mail. They agreed to fraudulently deposit stolen checks into bank accounts associated with members of the conspiracy, even though they were not payees on the checks. Members of the conspiracy then withdrew funds from those accounts, according to court documents. Mancebo was also sentenced to five years of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution of $106,374 and forfeiture of $2,025. The thefts happened throughout 2018 and the four defendants successfully stole about $83,470 among multiple fraudulent deposits and will have to pay back that amount to the federal government. This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Paterson NJ: Former resident sentenced for mail theft, stolen checks A former Revere resident and business owner was sentenced Wednesday in connection with filing fraudulent applications to obtain $2.5 million in federal Paycheck Protection Program loan funds resulting from the Covid pandemic. Vinicius Santana, 35, who now lives in Boca Raton, Florida, then misused that Covid-relief money to buy real estate and cars and to invest in cryptocurrency, prosecutors said. Santana was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to 29 months in prison and three years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Josh Levy said in a statement. Santana was also ordered to pay restitution of $2.5 million and forfeiture. In September 2022, Santana pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of unlawful monetary transactions. He owned Complete Home Care, LLC, a painting company in Massachusetts. In April 2020, Santana submitted several different PPP loan applications on behalf of his painting company, Levy said. In the initial applications, Santana listed five employees and an average monthly payroll of between $10,000 and $18,000. These applications were denied. In the fourth application for his company, Santana falsely claimed to have 154 employees and an average monthly payroll of $1 million. On May 11, 2020, a bank issued Santanas company a $2.5 million loan based on the false representations in the fourth application. After receiving the funds, Santana misused the loan proceeds to buy real estate and cars and to invest in cryptocurrency. The federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act was enacted on March 29, 2020 to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who are suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the authorization of forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain approved expenses, through the PPP. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justices National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW SAN DIEGO The former president of Local 2805 chapter of the American Federation of Government Employees and former Department of Homeland Security officer, was sentenced in federal court Wednesday. Local 2805 is a labor union which represents Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement employees in San Diego and Imperial Counties. Felix Luciano, 61, will spend four months in custody for filing a false report to conceal his embezzlement of thousands of dollars in union dues, announced the office of acting U.S. attorney Andrew Haden. Scripps Health cutting ties with insurance covering thousands of SD seniors Additionally, Luciano was ordered to repay $36,000 to Local 2805 as money that he embezzled as well as pay a $10,000 fine. U.S. District Judge Jinsook Ohta found that Luciano abused the trust of union members. According to court records, Luciano used some of Local 2805s money for a variety of personal expenses. This included shopping, travel reimbursements, groceries, dining, dry cleaning, and paying for non-union accounts. The top public high schools in San Diego County, according to Niche Records shows he did this by writing checks from Local 2805s checking account, and using Local 2805s debit and credit cards to directly pay personal expenses. As Local 2805s president, Luciano was required to file an annual Form LM-3 financial report with the Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards. This is sworn under penalty of perjury. According to court records, Luciano underreported the amount of money that he received from Local 2805 and Local 2805s cash balance in the LM-3 report he filed in 2018. In doing so, officials say attempted to hide his embezzlement. Lemon Grove man sentenced in attempted murder of girlfriend, daughters As a result of Lucianos actions, the attorneys office says he caused a total loss of $36,000 to Local 2805. When workers devote their hard-earned money to labor unions, they rightly expect the officers to be honest stewards of their dues, said Haden. Felix Luciano abused the trust of the government employees represented by Local 2805 for his own personal benefit. We hope this criminal prosecution helps to hold Luciano accountable for his crimes and serves as a deterrent for others who might consider abusing the trust of union members. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. Former White House lawyer Ty Cobb said in an interview on CNN Wednesday that former President Trumps legal team had no defenses against the civil case brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James over alleged business fraud. Trump had no defenses, Cobb said. And as the judge pointed out, I mean, his opinion is very detailed, very judicious, you know, littered with citations, appropriate citations and criticism of the defense arguments and highlighting the overwhelming evidence against him, but he basically points out that Trump relentlessly, as you have highlighted, you know, puts forth claims that simply are not true, that have no foundation, that cannot be supported by the facts. New York Justice Arthur Engoron ruled Tuesday that Trump had committed fraud by inflating the value of assets held in New York and elsewhere, and rejected the Trump teams efforts to have the case thrown out. The ruling in the civil case also resulted in the stripping of some of the former presidents business licenses as well as the ordering of an independent monitor to continue to oversee the Trump Organization. Alina Habba, the former presidents legal spokeswoman, said Trump will immediately appeal the decision in a statement. Todays decision is fundamentally flawed at every level. It is important to remember that the Trump Organization is an American success story, Habba said. The fact that this Court summarily found that there is no question of fact, finding in part that Mar-a-Lago is worth approximately $20 million and issue a decision of this magnitude is an affront to our legal system, Habba continued. Jamess case followed a three-year investigation by her office. The case centered on whether Trump deceived investors and tax authorities by inflating the value of his assets when it suited him and deflating their value for tax benefits. James accused the president of falsely inflating his net worth by billions of dollars to unjustly enrich himself and to cheat the system, thereby cheating all of us. Cobb served as a White House lawyer in 2017 and 2018, and focused on matters related to the federal investigation of Trump and the 2016 election. Hes repeatedly criticized Trump in recent months, including by comparing him to a mob boss. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A senior military leader at Fort Leavenworth, convicted of beating his wife unconscious and destroying evidence of the crime, dodged prison Wednesday after a Leavenworth County judge deemed probation was appropriate in his case. Lt. Col. Greg A. Pasquantonio, 40, pleaded guilty in August to felony aggravated battery of his wife, who was hospitalized with severe injuries, including broken ribs, in December. He was also found guilty of hindering a felony prosecution, a charge to which he pleaded no contest. Under state sentencing guidelines, the ranking Army official faced a presumption of prison time, with up to nearly three years for aggravated battery and nine months for interfering with law enforcement. Instead, Leavenworth County District Judge Gerald R. Kuckelman ordered him to three years of probation. The judge also imposed a suspended sentence of 40 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections, which could kick in if Pasquantonio violates terms set by the court. On Dec. 1, police officers were dispatched to the lieutenant colonels home in Lansing for an emergency medical call. His wife was found unconscious and severely injured, and Pasquantonio was arrested. Pasquantonio was released from jail the following day after Kuckelman reduced his bond over the objections of the Leavenworth County Attorneys Office. After his release, Pasquantonio allegedly deleted videos from a home surveillance system despite a court order not to interfere in the case. That act was the basis for his second felony conviction of interference with law enforcement. According to court records, Pasquantonio had confronted his wife with a theory that she was being unfaithful before the attack. He told Army doctors he had attempted suicide during a heated confrontation. Weeks later, prosecutors alleged the lieutenant colonel beat her with his hands, fists and feet after losing his temper. She was hospitalized after the attack. In a motion filed with the court ahead of sentencing, defense attorney Aimee Bateman noted a presentence investigation showed he had no criminal history and determined a low risk to reoffend. She also said Pasquantonio had suffered from and was receiving care for his mental health conditions, which were attributed in part to combat service deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan. Prosecutors, meanwhile, unsuccessfully argued that Pasquantonio should be sentenced to prison. Presented as testimony during his sentencing hearing was a victim impact statement prepared by his wife. Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson discussed the case during an appearance Wednesday on the Dana & Parks Show, a talk radio program hosted by Dana Wright and Scott Parks on 98.1 KMBZ. During the interview, Thompson acknowledged cases of domestic violence are difficult ones to prosecute for a number of reasons, including reluctance of victims to step forward. While the result was not the one prosecutors sought, Thompson said he respects the judges decision. Thompson said his office has been in communication with the military, saying they could still pursue a court martial for Pasquantonio. I cant speak for what theyre going to do. But theres no double jeopardy they have a right to do a court martial. They have a right to review and pursue charges on their end as well, he said. A version of this article was originally published in Native News Online. Early last week, Evelyn Jefferson (Lummi) was hanging doses of Narcan the life-saving opioid reversal drug from trees in a homeless encampment in Bellingham, near the Lummi Nation. The Lummi Nation peoples, or Lhaq temish, originally inhabited what is now Bellingham and Ferndale, according to local history. The tribe is currently the third largest in the state, with over 5,000 registered members. Bellingham community members gather to bless the House of Tears Carvers totem pole made for The Snake River to Salish Sea Spirit of the Waters totem pole journey at its launch Tuesday, May 3, 2022, at Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship in Bellingham, Wash. The 2,300-mile journey highlights the vital role of the Snake River, salmon and orca to the lifeways and identities of Tribal communities in the region. Jefferson, a crisis outreach supervisor for Lummi Nation, spends much of her time these days supporting tribal members who live in the homeless encampment and use opioids. She distributes fentanyl testing strips and Narcan; treats wounds; transports them to doctors appointments and treatment; and responds to overdoses. She and her team were on high alert. A few weeks earlier, authorities had seized fentanyl pills at the encampment, enough to kill everyone in Bellingham. With the elevated risk of overdoses, Jefferson and others hung the Narcan nasal spray canisters from the trees in hopes that people would stock up and use it, if necessary. By Thursday, four Lummi Nation tribal members had died of overdoses. One of those tribal members was Jeffersons own son. As a crisis outreach person, you wouldnt expect to be trying to save your own child, Jefferson told Native News Online. Opioid crisis in tribes While the opioid and overdose crisis is surging across the country, Native American communities have the second-highest overdose rate behind African Americans nearly 40% higher than the rest of the nation, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control. Advocates say many factors are behind this, including lack of access to health care due to geographic isolation and generational trauma. The overdose death rate among American Indian and Alaska Natives is nearly three times higher than the groupings national rate, according to the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board. Across the country, the CDC reports the overdose death rate for American Indian and Alaska Natives has increased 33% from 2020 to 2021, which saw over 1,300 deaths. Since 2000, the groupings overdose death rate in the state has increased almost 300%. Many tribal communities have embraced culturally-centered harm reduction strategies aimed at reducing the negative outcomes associated with using drugs. These strategies include distributing Narcan and fentanyl testing strips and providing education on safe drug use, such as never using alone. Along with Jeffersons crisis outreach team, the Lummi Nation has been actively addressing the opioid and overdose crisis in the community. During the past year, it has hired two prevention specialists and established a stabilization and recovery center, a seven-bed facility where people can recover from opioid withdrawals and continue treatment at night after the tribal health center closes. In May, the Lummi Nation hosted the first Washington State Tribal Opioid/Fentanyl Summit to explore solutions with other tribes and local and state leaders to explore a plan of action around the crisis. Lummi Nation artist Jason LaClair discusses the meaning behind his piece, One From the Heart, which features two eagles facing each other in the shape of a heart in a traditional Coast Salish style. The piece, now on display at Pioneer Park in Ferndale, Wash., represents mutual care within the community during the COVID pandemic. It is one of two new murals representing the Lummi community and history as part of the citys Downtown Mural Project in fall 2021. Lummi Nation overdose prevention methods Following the spike in overdose deaths, the Lummi Nation issued an emergency alert, urging people using drugs to practice harm-reduction strategies to lower the risk of overdosing. It reminds users to never use alone, whether that means taking turns with friends or calling support lines when alone. A man was arrested with enough fentanyl to kill everyone in Bellingham. On Thursday, September 21, the Lummi Indian Business Council (LIBC) released a series of motions in response to the overdose deaths. Those motions include: To immediately start the exclusion and banishment process for all drug dealers on the reservation To declare a state of emergency for the fentanyl crisis To immediately mandate that drug dealers have no bail To take all actions necessary to shut down all drug houses Draft a messaging plan for the youth and plan for prevention and counseling We need to be there for our families because times are so dark, Lummi Chairman Anthony Hillaire told Native News Online. We need to come together. These motions are to send a message to people who are grieving, and to the whole Lummi Nation, that this is being taken seriously and we are addressing it head-on. The alert also listed resources available for tribal members: Lummi Harm Reduction - 360-325-2779 Lummi Tribal Health Center - 360-384-0464 Lummi Behavioral Health Crisis Line - 360-594-1317 Lummi Police Department - 360-312-2274 Lummi Care (Counseling Services) - 360-312-2274 Lummi Suboxone (Healing Spirit Clinic OTP) - 360-312-2465 Opioid overdose in Lummi Nation Jeffersons son, who was 37, had just been released from jail, where he was on a daily regimen of Suboxone, a prescription opiate used to treat opioid dependency. It is a highly effective treatment for opioid use disorder. Upon his release, he was unable to access his daily dose of Suboxone at the tribal health clinic. Like many with opioid use disorder who face the possibility of painful withdrawals, often referred to as dope sick, he instead bought drugs on the street. On Wednesday, September 20, Jefferson was alerted that her son had overdosed at her sisters house. She tried to revive him, but he died before she could resuscitate him. As Jefferson stood over her dead son, paramedics offered to call crisis outreach for her. I told them, I am crisis outreach. I respond to overdoses like this, Jefferson said. As a crisis outreach person, you wouldnt expect to be trying to save your own child... our community is in such desperation right now. Early this year, the Lummi Nation began seeing evidence of Xylazine, a powerful animal tranquilizer, in the drug supply. When mixed with opioids, the drug can lead to severe wounds, including necrosis, the rotting of human tissue, that can lead to amputation. Jefferson told Native News Online that a medical examiner determined that her sons overdose was caused by another large-animal tranquilizer called carfentanil, a synthetic opioid that is 1,000 times stronger than fentanyl. It will be a week before Jefferson can bury her son. There are other families ahead of me, she said. Who has to wait in line to bury their child? Treaty of Point Elliott Chairman Hillaire said he hopes the tribes opioid-response strategy can help break the cycle of trauma and abuse exacted on Indigenous peoples by colonialism. He notes that the federal government continues to neglect the 168-year-old promises made in the Treaty of Point Elliott, which established the Lummi Nation reservation in Washington State. A new Point Elliott Treaty marker on Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2022, in Mukilteo, Washington. The treaty, signed on Jan. 22, 1855, is the land settlement between the Native American Tribes in the greater Puget Sound region and the United States government. That is one of the reminders when we see these tragic incidents: This is the outcome of when there is genocide hitting a people, Hillaire said. We dont want sympathy, we want empathy from the world. If we are really going to address this, we need the federal government to uphold those treaty promises. The 1855 Treaty of Point Elliott established policies between Coast Salish tribes and the U.S. government. The heavily-translated meeting in what is now Mukilteo consisted of the territorys Governor at the time and several tribes. The agreement traded an abundance of land to the U.S. for protected reservation land and various reserved rights. Violations of the treaty are credited as a trigger in the Indian War. Tribes have reported a continued denial or violation of treaty rights in the 100+ years since its signing. The treaty is referred to in legal disputes between U.S. and tribal rights and sovereignties. Indigenous accounts mention how hard it was for tribal leaders to sign away land in an agreement with the federal government, but did so to ensure future tribal generations had some land to themselves, and the ability to continue traditions in some capacity. The treaty was a sacrifice they had to make, according to passed-down accounts. Telling our story, addressing our traumas and the atrocities that have happened to us throughout history is important, and hopefully, a couple of years from now, we will be aware of that, the world will be aware of that, and we will heal together. Our vision is that our children will grow up away from this lie of trauma and abuse. Jason LaClair is a Lummi Nation citizen, artist, and four and a half years into recovering from addiction. LaClair said that it was his mother encouraging him to continue to come to family gatherings while he was in active addiction that helped him enter recovery. This positive social integration is crucial to recovery in Native communities, where connection to family and culture is a measure of health. As Indigenous people, as Lummi people, it takes a village, LaClair said. Going back to our roots that way is what it is going to take, and not being afraid to talk about addiction at the table. Naloxone nasal spray, sold under the brand name Narcan, is shown in 2016. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune/TNS) Even before her sons death, Jefferson always carried six doses of Narcan with her, ready to use if necessary. As Indian Country continues to face an elevated risk of overdoses, she advises community members to do the same and get trained in CPR. Keep using Narcan, she said. If one or two dont work, keep going, use more, dont stop. Do CPR, do chest compressions to get their heart going again. One of the Franklin Park Zoos beloved gorillas will be out of the public eye Thursday while he undergoes a medical procedure. Little Joe will be put under anesthesia so the zoos medical team can examine the recent swelling around his left eye. Every possible effort is made to keep the animal, as well as the people involved in the procedure, safe and healthy. But of course, there is always a risk anytime anesthesia is involved, the zoo said in a statement on Facebook. Thank you for keeping Little Joe and his dedicated care team in your thoughts. Little Joe turned 30 years old in February. 30 years ago to the day, the 300-pound primate made national news when he escaped and attacked a child and a zoo employee. He was captured a few hours later. Although Little Joe will be away from his troop, the other western lowland gorillas will still be viewable in the Tropical Rainforest. Western lowland gorillas are the most widespread gorilla species. Although their exact population is unknown due to the remote area of Africa in which they live, they are classified as critically endangered due to poaching and disease. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Fair Use"/> Looks like a lot of men in Oklahoma want to get snipped: When Planned Parenthood Great Plains announced a free vasectomy clinic last week on Facebook, the post was shared 6,000 times, and all the spots filled up in less than 48 hours. Its not exactly surprising to see this from a state that has banned abortions and made headlines for pregnant women almost dying or spending thousands to travel to another state with a nonviable pregnancy. Emily Wales, the CEO of PPGP, told the Oklahoma Voice that the two-day October clinic is the launch of vasectomy services at the Oklahoma City health center. Over the summer, Planned Parenthood Great Plains started offering vasectomies at its Tulsa clinic, about 100 miles away, and that location has a waitlist. Read more Planned Parenthood is launching the service at clinics in Mishawaka, Indiana, (another state where abortion is banned) and Portland, Maine. Abortion is legal there, but Dr. Andrea Pelletier told a local news outlet that patients have been asking to get the snip. Theres a real lack of access in our community, she said. Some other local urology practices are booking out several months if not up to a year, year-and-a-half to get a vasectomy. Not all insurance plans cover vasectomies and that is a travesty that leads to the outpouring of demand for free clinics. Hey Dark Brandon, can you get on that next? This story has been updated with comment from PPSLR. More from Jezebel Sign up for Jezebel's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. The Freedom of Russia Legion has claimed that they are conducting combat operations on the territory of Russias Belgorod Oblast. Source: Freedom of Russia Legion on Telegram Quote: "We inform everyone that our groups are currently fighting on the territory of Belgorod Oblast. There are no casualties among soldiers from the Freedom of Russia Legion, and we are working according to plan. Keep those fairy tales about minefields for Konashenkov [head of the Mass Communications Department of the Russian MoD ed.]. We continue to clean our house of Putin's filth. The battle is going on, all the details later." Details: Earlier, the Russian Astra Telegram channel wrote that the local administration reported a battle between the border guards of the Russian Federation and a Ukrainian sabotage and reconnaissance group on the demarcation line in Belgorod Oblast. Background: In May, representatives of the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC) and the Freedom of Russia Legion said they completed their combat and political missions in Belgorod Oblast, Russia. On 22 May, the Russian Volunteer Corps and the Freedom of Russia Legion, organisations in which Russians fight for Ukraine, announced the "liberation" of several settlements in Belgorod Oblast, Russia, from Putin's government. The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) said in its report that the fighters of the Russian Volunteer Corps and the Freedom of Russia Legion could have moved closer to the border with Ukraine after the clash with Russian troops in Belgorod Oblast. Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron! FREETOWN Frank Bergeron noticed that police and fire vehicles had responded to his neighbor's house at around 4:30 a.m. last Wednesday. He had just awakened when he observed the commotion next door at 92 Chace Road. Then he went back to sleep. "I just thought - oh, the cops are there again," he said. Bergeron didn't think much of it even later in the morning when state police were on scene. It took someone to call him and tell him that his neighbor, Heidi Chase, had been murdered before he became aware of the tragedy. "Before that, I still thought, oh, it's just a regular day," he said. That's because, Bergeron said, he's been warning of a tragedy in the making at the property for years. The home at 92 Chace Road in Freetown, the site where Heidi Chace was murdered Sept. 20, has accumulated 205 police log entries in the last 10 years. "It's been a problem for at least a decade. This has been craziness," he said. What happened there: Freetown man accused of bludgeoning death of Heidi Chase. He faces a murder charge. Bergeron is a life-long Freetown resident who has lived next door to 92 Chace Road in E. Freetown with his family for close to 20 years. He told a former town building inspector two years ago "someone is going to die there," he said. "Whatever problem people have about a neighbor - they're painting their house a certain color or their dogs are barking - this is not that." Bergeron said allegations associated with that address over the years have included drug dealing, domestic abuse, animal abuse and animal cruelty, as well as more serious crimes. Police called to home more than 200 times Freetown Police Chief Scott Rose said there are 205 log entries for 92 Chace Road during the past 10 years. That's every call, he said, including medical emergencies, serving papers, or someone just wanting to speak to an officer. But among the numerous calls are criminal investigations. There are 39 police reports that have been generated by the calls, he said. Once again, they're not all criminal reports, he said. But it's documented that Freetown Police have responded to disturbances at the house, including disorderly person, trespassing, and illegal burning. There have been a number of warrant arrests. There have been animal cruelty complaints and investigations, as well property crime reports, including for larceny, malicious destruction, and bylaw violations. Rose said a motor vehicle pursuit ended at that location, and there was a reported home invasion at the address. Rose added there have been allegations of drug dealing at the address, as well. Bergeron said there have also been frequent bonfires on the property, with yelling and fighting. Bergeron added there were multiple building and health code violations, as well, including people living in trailers and raw sewage being dumped on the ground. "Nothing is in compliance, the septic, the house itself," he said. Taking the matter to Housing Court The town has gone to Housing Court to enforce compliance to the building code. The town had also begun considering seeking the removal of current occupants in the wake of the murder due to health, building and fire code violations, said Freetown Building Commissioner Carl Bizarro. He said, "We are committed to ensuring that the property is safe for anyone to occupy." The court approved an order in August that all but two unregistered motor vehicles on the property must be removed, that all scrap metal and junk must be removed, that all occupied mobile homes must be removed, that all unpermitted structures constructed on the property must be removed or after-the-fact building permits must be applied for. Bizarro said in a petition to the court that the complaints in the current court case stem from 2019. They were not being addressed despite repeated requests, he told the court. A "special investigation" into the complaints was started in January, Bizarro stated, and has included inspections of the property, including this week. Bizarro said the town had initially been trying to determine who the owner is. The owner had been listed in assessor records as the estate of Harris Chace Sr., Heidi Chace's late father, but ownership may have been recently transferred to Heidi Chace. Heidi Chace was named as the defendant in the town's complaint with the court. The case has now been dropped due to her death. Bizarro said the result of this week's inspection suggested "that the best course of action would be to petition the court for an emergency condemnation of the building due to various building, health and fire violations." There have been reports of people currently living on the property unrelated to Heidi Chace. Chace's boyfriend, Matthew Lucas, 54, is being held without bail, charged with Chase's murder. Lucas has a 24-page board of probation record, which includes violent felony charges, as well as convictions, according to prosecutors. Prosecutors say the murder occurred early last Wednesday morning. Chace's body was found with significant facial trauma in the home. A bloody hammer was also found at the scene. Lucas was arrested later that morning, hiding in a shed behind a nearby home owned by his brother. Prosecutors say Lucas and Chase, and another couple living at the home, as well as a fifth person who left during the night, had been smoking cocaine and drinking leading up to the murder. The other couple called the police at about 4:25 a.m. This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: Freetown home where murder committed logged 205 police calls in decade (Bloomberg) -- Frances ambassador to Niger left the country, three days after President Emmanuel Macron said the envoy would be pulled out of the West African nation and French troops withdrawn. Most Read from Bloomberg Ambassador Sylvain Itte left the capital, Niamey, on a plane heading to Paris via Chad, according to two French government officials who asked not to be identified because theyre not authorised to comment. The ambassador left Niger along with six colleagues at about 4 a.m. on Wednesday, Agence France-Presse reported. Tensions between Nigers military leaders and its former colonial power have deteriorated since the junta ousted President Mohamed Bazoum in a July 26 coup and severed military ties with France. Macron initially rejected an Aug. 28 deadline for Itte to depart the country. The junta ordered the ambassador to leave for what it described as French actions contrary to Nigers interests. The coup leaders on Monday requested a timeline for the withdrawal of the about 1,500 French troops that are stationed in Niger. Macron earlier said the withdrawal would be completed by the end of 2023. Macron held talks with Nigerien Foreign Minister Hassoumi Massaoudou on Wednesday in which he reiterated Frances support for Bazoum and its desire for a return to constitutional order in the country, according to a statement from the Elysee. Read More: Macron, in Reversal, Says French Soldiers Will Leave Niger Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. French Defene Minister Sebastien Lecornu has come to Ukraine with a visit. Source: European Pravda; French Embassy. Lecornu began his visit to the Ukrainian capital on 28 September, accompanied by French ambassador Gael Veyssier. Visite ce jeudi 28 septembre du Ministre francais des Armees, @SebLecornu a #Kyiv, accompagne de l'ambassadeur de en @GaelVeyssiere. La journee debute par un moment emouvant de recueillement devant le Mur des Heros. pic.twitter.com/x1rukj5mLm La France en Ukraine (@FranceenUkraine) September 28, 2023 "The day began with an emotional moment of honouring the heroes in front of the wall of memory of those who fell for Ukraine," the embassy said. Before that, it became known that UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps had arrived in Ukraine and was probably still in Kyiv. The president's office did not specify when his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy occurred. It is known that the Defence Industries Forum, with the participation of more than 160 representatives of the defence industry from around the world, is to take place in Kyiv in a few days. The exact dates of the event are not disclosed. Read more: "Europe Needs to Put Itself in a Situation Where We Can Help Ukraine in War without US" 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 Layli Foroudi PARIS (Reuters) -France's highest administrative court will on Friday consider its first class action against the state, alleging racial profiling by police - and may in the process shape future social activism. Six human rights organisations argue that the police systematically discriminate, especially against young Arab and Black men, when deciding who to stop on routine patrols. If successful, they could open the way for similar broad legal challenges in a country where activism has traditionally taken the form of direct protest, and where class actions only became possible in 2014 and remain rare. The case, supported by statements from 40 victims as well as police, asks the Conseil d'Etat (State Council) to require concrete reforms from the government, including limiting police powers to check ID and mandating a record of checks. "It is not acceptable that kids, at a young age, have to learn that their skin colour is a problem," said Omer Mas Capitolan, president of one of the six organisations, Community House of Development in Solidarity. The government and police are already under scrutiny after an officer shot dead Nahel, a teenager of North African descent, during a traffic stop in June, bringing long-simmering resentment among urban immigrant communities to the boil. The U.N. Committee for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination decried the "continuing practice of racial profiling" and urged France to address "structural and systemic causes of racial discrimination" in the police. The interior ministry did not answer a request for comment, but has previously said that "ethnic profiling by law enforcement is banned", and that racism in the police is not systemic. However, France limits the use of statistics on race and ethnicity, and experts say it can no longer turn a blind eye to accusations by rights groups that racism colours police recruitment, training, doctrine and practice. Since 2016, France has paid damages to individuals in three cases where police ID checks were found to have been discriminatory. But the lawsuit - before a chamber reserved for cases of "remarkable importance" - does not seek monetary compensation. "It's looking to the future - to trace all the necessary ways to eradicate this wrong," said Antoine Lyon-Caen, lawyer for the six organisations, which include Amnesty, Human Rights Watch and the Open Society Justice Initiative. CLASS ACTIONS COULD CHANGE ACTIVISM IN FRANCE Since 2014, France has allowed organisations to file lawsuits on behalf of a group harmed by a policy or practice, later widening their application beyond consumer claims. Such actions often fail, though, and lawmakers are discussing ways to facilitate them. In the U.S., class actions have long featured in civil rights advocacy. In France, however, "judicial advocacy is not a tradition, this is a first [class action against the state], the tradition [here] is going onto the streets," said Sophie Latraverse, a lawyer and anti-discrimination expert. In arguments provided to the court, Lyon-Caen cites as a model a 2013 ruling against New York city over racial profiling and unconstitutional police stop-and-search practices. "This [U.S.] judgment brings hope as it puts in place measures to transform the police, and a monitoring mechanism," he said. As for Friday's verdict, Gwenaele Calves, law professor at University Cergy-Pontoise, said it would also send a wider message on class actions in France: "'Go for it' - or - 'It's not worth it'." A member of the Conseil d'Etat will make a recommendation at Friday's hearing and a judgment will follow in the coming weeks. (Reporting by Layli Foroudi; additional reporting by Daniel Wiessner in Albany; editing by Kat Stafford and Kevin Liffey) Omar Navarro, a favorite of former President Trump's MAGA movement for repeatedly challenging Democrat Maxine Waters for her congressional seat, was indicted Wednesday on 43 counts of misusing campaign funds, including funneling tens of thousands of dollars in campaign donations back to himself through friends and family. FBI agents also arrested Navarro's mother, Dora Asghari, 59, of Torrance and a friend, Zacharias Diamantides-Abel, 34, of Long Beach. Both are accused of conspiring with Navarro to convert campaign donations to personal use. Navarro, 34, is in state custody on unrelated charges, according to the office of the district attorney for the Central District of California, but he is expected to be turned over soon to federal authorities. Federal prosecutors in the Central District of California unsealed a 45-page indictment charging Navarro with 13 counts of wire fraud, 26 counts of falsification of records and three counts of prohibited use of campaign funds. Asghari is charged with six counts of wire fraud. Diamantides-Abel is charged with two counts of wire fraud. All three defendants are charged with one count of conspiracy. Navarro, a Republican, ran against Waters for her 43rd Congressional District seat in south L.A. County in the last four elections. He consistently garnered less than 25% of the vote, but his use of digital media and campaign stunts attracted high-profile friends within Trump's "Make America Great Again" movement, including former national security advisor Michael Flynn and former Trump political advisor Roger Stone. The attention also led to an outpouring of donations to his campaigns. Navarro raised just $2,846 in 2016, but brought in $1.17 million in 2018 and $731,118 in 2020, when he failed to advance to the general election. He collected $85,997 in 2022. Navarro acted as his own campaign treasurer in all four campaigns, according to filings with the Federal Election Commission. Read more: L.A. County D.A. sued over prosecution allegedly sparked by election conspiracy theories During his quixotic campaigns against the popular 16-term congresswoman, he frequently faced questions about how he was funding his lifestyle, including high-profile stops at far-right events, while he was largely unemployed. Navarro came to the FBI's attention in 2018 after posting a doctored image of Waters' official House letterhead on social media. Attorneys for Navarro did not immediately respond to requests for comment Wednesday. The indictment made public Wednesday alleges that Navarro made payments from his campaign to various individuals including Asghari and Diamantides-Abel who then transferred the money back to him. The Republican is also accused of using campaign funds to pay for personal expenses, including trips to Las Vegas and wine country, as well as two criminal defense attorneys who helped him when he pleaded guilty to felony stalking in 2020. According to the indictment, Navarro later falsely reported these expenditures as campaign expenses to the FEC. Asghari and Diamantides-Abel are accused of concealing the scheme by cashing the checks rather than depositing them into their personal bank accounts. Between December 2017 and June 2020, Diamantides-Abel and Asghari received $49,260 and $58,625, respectively, from Navarros campaign, according to the indictment. Asghari is also accused of creating a shell company to facilitate receiving the campaign payments and transferring the money back to Navarro and his own shell company. According to the indictment, from January 2018 through July 1, 2020, Navarro deposited more than $100,000 in cash into his personal accounts, even though he had no other source of income and he frequently made deposits after Diamantides-Abel or Asghari cashed campaign checks. Navarro also formed a sham charity called the United Latino Foundation as another way to embezzle funds from his campaign for his personal use, according to the indictment. The indictment includes 13 unindicted co-conspirators. Get the best of the Los Angeles Times politics coverage with the Essential Politics newsletter. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. A Fresno man who was part of a smash-and-grab team that robbed 17 stores in the area wont be going to prison for his crimes, a judge ruled Wednesday. Instead, Judge James Kelley sentenced Reginald Taylor, 23, to two years of probation and 90 days on electronic monitoring, following a strong argument from his defense attorney, Taylor D. Pittman. Taylor was facing up to three years and four months in prison after pleading no contest to two counts of second-degree commercial burglary and one count of second-degree robbery. He and his co-defendant, 23-year-old Schirrell Cummings, were charged with a total of 24 felonies between them. The thefts took place between Dec. 5, 2021, and May 11, 2022, police said. In one of their heists, they were caught on a video prying open a locked liquor cabinet at the CVS Pharmacy at Herndon and West avenues. The video shows them hurriedly stuffing liquor bottles into several shopping bags and casually walking out the front door. Pittman argued that Taylor has made significant changes in his life since being charged last May, including finishing his high school education, becoming employed full-time and welcoming a new baby. He has many reasons to do and be better, said Pittman, of the firm Fitzgerald, Alvarez & Ciummo. Pittman added that Taylor has no criminal history and was not the mastermind of the heists. Police believe Taylor and Cummings were in a relationship at the time they went on their smash and grab crime spree. It is reasonable to believe he allowed a romantic relationship to cloud his better judgment at the time, Pittman said. He is remorseful for his actions and has learned a tough lesson of consequences at such a young age. Senior Deputy District Attorney Nicole Idiart said that while she understood the judges decision, she also pushed for time behind bars. At a minimum he should be held accountable with some jail time, if not prison, Idiart said. Idiart was pleased to see the judge issue Taylor a stern warning that if he violates the conditions of his probation, he would go to prison. Cummings is expected to be sentenced on Oct. 26 in Dept. 32. She was charged with 18 felonies and agreed to a plea deal on Sept. 14. As part of the agreement, she pleaded no contest to one count of robbery and will be sentenced to five years in prison. Nikki Haley , former ambassador to the United Nations, during the Republican primary presidential debate at the Ronald Regan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif., on Wednesday. (Eric Thayer/Bloomberg via Getty Images) The second debate of the Republican presidential primary took place on Wednesday evening at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif. As with the first debate, frontrunner Donald Trump was absent, giving the event an undercard feel. Leading in both national and early-state polls by margins that seem insurmountable, the former and potentially future president instead went to Michigan to hold a rally with automotive workers. The contentious and at times chaotic nature of the debate did none of the candidates who showed up any favors. All of this, it seems to me, helps Donald Trump, David Axelrod, who was a top adviser to former President Barack Obama, said on CNN in a postdebate panel. Because rather than creating clarity, it creates more of a muddle for voters. Below, find our top 5 takeaways from the second debate. Read more on Yahoo News: Winners and losers from the 2nd Republican debate, via BBC News 1. A hot mess Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis , left, and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy trade barbs Wednesday night. (Mike Blake/Reuters) Perhaps the most telling moment of the debate was when moderator and Fox News anchor Dana Perino told North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum to stop interrupting others or face punishment. Sir, we will have to cut your mic and I dont want to do that, she chided him. I dont. To be fair, Burgum was only following the lead of the other candidates on the stage, who were constantly shouting and speaking over each other, turning the debate stage into a high school cafeteria. This is a hot mess, GOP consultant Liam Donovan wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. The squabbling seemed to vindicate Trumps decision to stay away from Southern California. Read more on Yahoo News: Tim Scott and Nikki Haley argue about curtains in GOP debate, via The Independent 2. Another good night for Haley DeSantis walks behind Haley during a break in the debate. (Mike Blake/Reuters) For the last nine months, Trump has relentlessly attacked Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who was an establishment favorite after decisively winning reelection last year. But after Wednesdays debate, the Trump campaign attacked another candidate: Nikki Haley, former South Carolina governor and former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations (during the Trump administration). In an email sent at the conclusion of the debate, Trumps campaign singled out Haley, comparing her to Hillary Clinton, calling her weak on immigration and suggesting she had been disloyal by pointing to statements she made in 2021 about not running for president in 2024 if Trump did. It was a sign that, for a second straight debate, Haley had made the most convincing case for a non-Trump, not-quite-anti-Trump, sort-of-post-Trump nominee. In one memorable exchange, she leveled entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy with a shattering uppercut: Honestly, every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber, she said about his views on the social media app TikTok. She also sparred aggressively with Sen. Tim Scott , a fellow South Carolinian, and DeSantis, who seemed unprepared for the intensity of her attacks. Read more on Yahoo News: Nikki Haley is only GOP presidential candidate to decisively beat Joe Biden in new poll, via NextShark 3. DeSantis does well, but probably not well enough With his poll numbers dropping and donors fleeing, DeSantis did little to make the case that he is the best candidate to take on Donald Trump. (Mike Blake/Reuters) DeSantis was once compared by pundits to Reagan, the iconic conservative president in whose library Wednesday nights debate took place. Obviously aware that his unwillingness to directly take on Trump was hampering his prospects by calling into question his pugnacious brand, DeSantis took on the frontrunner, and his political mentor, directly. Donald Trump is missing in action. He should be on this stage tonight. He owes it to you to defend his record, DeSantis said. For the most part, he refused to recede into the background, as he did during the first debate. However, with his poll numbers dropping and donors fleeing, he did little to make the case that he is the best candidate to take on Trump. Haleys ascent only added to his travails. Read more on Yahoo News: How DeSantiss early missteps hobbled his U.S. presidential bid, via Reuters 4. Scott awakens Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina has been a favorite of many Capitol Hill conservatives. (Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images) When he first announced his run for the presidency, Scott the lone Black Republican in the U.S. Senate engendered instant support from senior Capitol Hill conservatives, who compared him to Reagan. But after several months of campaigning, he had failed to attract voters excitement. Wednesday saw Scott show what, exactly, makes him a favorite of so many conservatives. I have been discriminated against, but America is not a racist country, he said, offering a fundamentally optimistic vision of the state of the nation. He also suggested that President Lyndon B. Johnsons social programs, known collectively as the Great Society, did more to harm the Black family than chattel slavery a potentially controversial argument that may nevertheless find traction on the right, especially at a time of backlash to the racial reckoning that began in 2020. Tim Scott just delivered exactly what his supporters have been waiting for, Republican pollster Frank Luntz wrote on the X platform. Rejecting American racism in favor of American Exceptionalism is one of the best lines of the entire campaign, and it was delivered with the passion and emotion that make it memorable. Read more on Yahoo News: Tim Scott is the top Black Republican in the GOP presidential primary. Here's how he discusses race, via the Associated Press 5. But nothing really changed The Republican presidential candidates at the second Republican presidential primary debate. (Mark J. Terrill/AP) After two hours of shouting, arguing and pontification, what ultimately changed about the dynamics of the GOP primary race? Absolutely nothing. Trump remains the prohibitive favorite to secure the partys presidential nomination, while Haley, DeSantis, Ramaswamy and others continued to compete for voters who are firmly or somewhat against Trump. Their rancorous performance on Wednesday night gave their respective supporters some of the fuel they needed, which means the field will continue to be crowded and sharply divided. And that, ultimately, only helps Trump. Simply by not showing up, he may have won again. Read more on Yahoo News: Goading Trump, hating Vivek, fighting everyone: Key takeaways from the second GOP debate, via the Independent Just when Microsoft's buyout of Activision seemed to finally be near complete, the Federal Trade Commission said it will revive its attempt to block the $69 billion deal in an adjudicative process. The FTC plans to restart its in-house trial against Microsofts multibillion-dollar acquisition of the Call of Duty maker. This effort by the FTC is unlikely to be anything more than a nuisance for Microsoft. It already received EU approval over the summer when the European Commission endorsed the deal as long as the tech giant could ensure full compliance with commitments. And more recently, the UK's Competition and Markets Authority issued a preliminary approval of the merger. Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick called it a significant milestone for the merger in a statement and said he remains optimistic that the deal will complete soon. The CMA's consultation on Microsoft's proposed changes is expected to be complete by October 6, just days ahead of the October 18 deadline for the CMAs review process. Normally, the FTC typically drops its challenges to deals when efforts are lost in federal court and despite the agencys effort, this move will not delay the deal from going through. The likely worst-case scenario for Microsoft would be divestiture. Being forced to sell Activision or parts of it after the fact would not be ideal, but at least short term there seems to be little chance of the FTC derailing things. The agencys failed attempt to block the acquisition over the summer in the US should have put an end to the bargaining when the FTCs injunction request to block the deal got rejected and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals denied the agencys last-ditch effort. Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley said in her ruling that the FTC did not prove the deal would harm consumers. Microsoft told Bloomberg that it's not overly concerned about the move preventing its purchase. Regardless of what impact it could have, the FTCs in-house hearing will only start after the Ninth Circuit issues an opinion on the appeal, according to the filing. In response to questions about this: were focused on working with Microsoft toward closing. How the FTC uses limited taxpayer resources is their decision. https://t.co/4NTulgQeBA Lulu Cheng Meservey (@lulumeservey) September 27, 2023 Lulu Cheng Meservey, the CCO of Activision, said the company is focused on closing the deal with Microsoft. In a jab on X, the site formerly known as Twitter, she questioned the FTC for how it uses limited taxpayer resources. WORCESTER When Tarek Yatim looks 30 years back to the time his family started a business out of a neglected Exxon gas station on Lincoln Street, he remembers it being a tough experience that required hard work and a lot of sleepless nights. At one point, his wife, Khadijeh, worked both at a doughnut shop and the gas station to support her husband, who alongside his two brothers, worked around the clock to brave the demands of a 24-hour business venture. On Tuesday, while standing in the parking lot of that same gas station at 446 Lincoln St., now known as Yatco-Gulf one of the 13 locations under the Yatco brand Yatim also threw in the word adventure, in line with the spirit of a true entrepreneur. Yatco owners Tarek and Khadijeh Yatim and their son Hussein at 446 Lincoln St. location. Yatco, a family-owned local convenience store/gas station chain, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. We take a lot of pride in what we do, and this business means a lot to us, said Yatim. Youve got to work hard to make it. This was a great adventure. Yatco Inc., a play on the family name Yatim and Co., was the dreamchild of Yatim and his brother, both immigrants of a family with roots from Lebanon. A civil war in the 1970s forced the family to flee Lebanon to Sierra Leone, a country in West Africa where the family patriarch, Mohammed Yatim, owned a general store which his four sons, among them Tarek, helped run the day-to-day after school. It was during that experience that Yatims idea of owning a gas station first came about. Getting fuel was very difficult, and people who owned gas stations were making a lot of money selling fuel, Yatim said. It just came to my head that, Holy cow, I think when I go somewhere, I got to open a gas station. Yatim laughed at that memory, apparently at the simplicity of his thinking at the time. Yet, that simple realization grew into a dream that Yatim, who was still in his early 20s, carried with him in 1992 to the United States, where he immigrated with his wife, Khadijah, and their two young sons. Only a year later, on Sept. 28, 1993, he and his older brother, Hassan, opened their doors to the first Yatco Inc.-run location a rundown Exxon gas station on Lincoln Street that immediately required a lot of work to breathe life into. Yatco, a family-owned local convenience store/gas station chain, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Khadijeh, Tareks wife of 35 years, remembers racking up to 18 hours a day between working across the street at a Dunkin Donuts shop, and then helping out at the gas station. Three decades later, Khadijeh, who now co-owns Yatco Inc., keeps it simple when thinking about her familys experience of building up from nothing to a multilocation company. Its a dream come true, Khadijeh said Tuesday. You have privileges and opportunity in the U.S. that if you don't embrace, that if you dont seize with hard work and patience, you won't get anywhere. As years went by, another of the Yatim brothers joined the company. Quickly, the Yatco brand grew as it branched out into Yatco Food Mart with as many as 20 locations, and Yatco Energy, a gas distribution company. In 2021, Yatim, his wife and their son Hussein became the sole owners of Yatco Inc. after his brothers parted ways with the company. While some of the locations were absorbed by one of Yatims brothers, Hassan, to start Chop Chop Convenience, the Yatco Inc. company now owns 19 locations, 13 of which operate under the Yatco brand. Starting Tuesday, the family held a celebration that continued for the rest of the week across different locations, setting up vendor tents with food, giving out free merchandise, offering a 30-cent discount to all customers and an extra 30-cent discount to membership holders. Yatco owners Tarek and Khadijeh Yatim and their son Hussein outside their 446 Lincoln St. location. Wearing a bright green T-shirt, the brand color of Yatco, one of Tareks three sons, Hussein, spent the day making sure things were in order at the Lincoln Street location, also shaking hands with those stopping by to congratulate the family. Yatcos heir apparent, Hussein holds the title of vice president, something that wasnt always in the plans. Hussein holds an undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering and a masters in mechanical engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute, which gave way to him working for 10 years at Boston Scientific, a biomedical engineering company. Since his uncles departure from the company, he saw the opportunity to take the reins on his familys business as his true calling. In his words, it wasnt something he had always thought about doing, but the family business was where he literally grew up in. I was 4 years old, running around eating candy off the shelves, Hussein said. Through high school and even in college breaks I would clean, run a cash register, stock shelves. Bob Gordon, a regular customer of 10 years at Yatcos Lincoln Street location, usually stops on his way to work every morning, getting a regular coffee, a bagel, a few scratch tickets and gas, too, when needed. On Tuesday, he walked out to his delivery truck with a bright green bag, folded together with the days newspaper and tucked under his armpit. The place is always busy, Gordon said. With the pandemic and everything else, to have lasted this long, its a really great achievement. Among those visiting the Yatims at their Lincoln Street location Tuesday was also Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis, who lauded the familys efforts in building their brand. Evangelidis also recognized Yatco Inc. with an honorary citation. It's not easy to make it in business, said Evangelidis. I'm here to celebrate the work they've done across Worcester County, to make our community as we all do, try to make it just a better place. As for the future, Hussein said the familys vision is to grow into as many as 25 locations in the next two years, mostly with sit-down food service and electric vehicle charging stations. The ultimate goal, according to Hussein, is to make the locations into a destination rather than just the classic pullover stop for gas and snacks. They've done really the hard part now, said Hussein about his elders. What's going to drive me forever is literally seeing it in real time going from literally nothing, where nobody expects anything out of you, to creating a great business. The goal is to run with what we have, and really take it to a next level. This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Yatco gas/convenience chain marks 30 years in Worcester County California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) called Wednesday nights Republican presidential debate a nothingburger. Honestly, more disappointed in it than I was expecting, Newsom told MSNBCs Rachel Maddow after the event. But one moment seemed to get his blood boiling when former Vice President Mike Pence said his solution to mass shootings would be expedited executions for the shooters. Pathetic. Absolutely pathetic, Newsom said. Hes been saying this now for months. I cringe every time I hear this. Newsom said many mass shooters expect to die during their mayhem. What a joke, that that somehow is a deterrent, he said. Number one killer of our kids is guns, and that was a solution tonight? That was a debate for the next president of the United States on how to deal with mass shootings? I dont want to say disqualifying. But honestly, for a former vice president, pathetic. Newsom has been outspoken on the need for stronger gun control and just signed a law in California that adds an 11% tax on the sale of guns and ammo in the state. The federal government also taxes guns and ammo, but California is the first state to have its own levy. See his full discussion with Maddow below: California Governor Gavin Newsom gave a masterful comeback to Ron DeSantis claims about crime rates in the Golden State. He may may want to familiarise himself with Miami, Florida and his homicide rates, Mr Newsom fired back. In the GOP presidential debate on Wednesday night, Florida Governor Mr DeSantis claimed that Los Angeles and San Francisco are not safe places to live. We cant be successful as a country if people arent even safe to live in places like Los Angeles and San Francisco, Mr DeSantis said. Just being in Southern California over the last couple of days, my wife and I have met three people who have been mugged on the street, and that would have never happened 10 or 20 years ago. Following the debate, Mr Newsom hit back at the Florida governors claims arguing that crime rates in Floridas Jacksonville and Miami actually exceed those of San Francisco. Speaking to CNNs Dana Bash , Mr Newsom said Mr DeSantis should familiarise himself with crime statistics in his own backyard, emphasising that Floridas crime homicide rates are 16 percent higher than in California overall. This may be an opportunity to look up Jacksonville, Florida, and he may want to familiarise himself with Miami, Florida and his homicide rates which are 100 per cent higher than San Francisco, he said. Crime rates in his own backyard, he has a higher homicide rate statewide 16 per cent than the state of California. Mr Newsom went on to list off several Republican-led states that also have higher crime rates than California but which Mr DeSantis has neglected to condemn. When Ms Bash challenged Mr Newsoms argument, pointing out that San Francisco is also grappling with crime issues, he responded: Crime is a real issue, but I find the hypocrisy and unwillingness to be honest with the American people, and the unwillingness of Ron DeSantis to take responsibility for his own crime rates in his own major cities. I find that to be curious but not surprising. DeSantis: My wife and I met three people who had been mugged in CA Newsom: He may want to familiarize himself with Jacksonville and Miami pic.twitter.com/y0nWfuIN5o Acyn (@Acyn) September 28, 2023 The California governors words earned him praise on X, formerly known as Twitter. One person tweeted: Gavin Newsom is really really good. Another person added: Handled masterfully, but I suspect his whole story is made up in the first place. While Miami has a higher violent crime rate than San Francisco, violent and property crime rates in San Francisco are indeed higher than in Jacksonville, according to data from Best Places. Mr DeSantis claims came days after Fox News announced Sean Hannity would host a debate between the Florida governor and Mr Newsom despite the fact that Mr Newsom is not running for president. Mr Newsom told CNN that he was baited by Mr DeSantis to debate him, which he said is a sign Mr DeSantis is completely unqualified to be president. Why is he doing it? Mr Newsom asked. The fact that he took this debate, the fact that he took the bait in relation to this debate, shows hes completely unqualified to be president of the United States. Why is he debating a guy whos not even running for president when hes running for president? Mr Newsom added: This guy is distracted, so I dont know that he has it in his heart. Heres my personal opinion about Ron DeSantis he regrets running for president. He made a huge mistake. He listened to his consultants, he bought his own hype, he had this little God complex He bought into all this stuff, and he quickly regretted it, but hes stuck. Good morning and welcome to the A.M. Alert! NEWSOM SIGNS SLATE OF ABORTION RIGHTS BILLS INTO LAW California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a raft of bills into law Wednesday aimed at further cementing abortion protections in the state. Newsom said in a statement that abortion is enshrined in the California Constitution, and that the state will continue to protect both seekers of reproductive health care and providers of the same, as radical politicians continue their all out assault on womens health care with dangerous and deadly consequences. The governor signed nine bills in all. One was SB 345, by Sen. Nancy Skinner, D-Berkeley. It shields not only abortion providers, but also medical staff who provide gender-affirming medical care to transgender patients from criminal or civil liability in states that have criminalized such procedures. The measure will also allow people who live in those states to contact a California health care provider through telehealth or videoconferencing and have medication shipped to them by a California pharmacy. The bill also bars California law enforcement, government officials and government contractors from cooperating with out-of-state prosecutions of those providing abortion or gender-affirming care. It blocks California-based social media and tech companies from sharing private communications with law enforcement regarding legally protected health care. With Gov. Newsoms signing of SB 345, health care providers, physically located in California, will be able to offer a lifeline to people in states that have cut off access to essential care, and be shielded from the draconian laws of those states, Skinner said in a statement. Other bills signed Wednesday include SB 487, which adds safeguards for abortion providers who participate in the Medi-Cal program; AB 1707, which shields health care providers from licensing actions initiated by? states hostile to abortion or gender-affirming care; AB 254 and AB 352, which further strengthen medical records privacy for abortion and gender-affirming care; AB 571, which prevents insurers from denying malpractice coverage to abortion or gender-affirming care providers; AB 1720, which requires ultrasounds be conducted in licensed facilities; and AB 1646 and SB 385, which are aimed at increasing the reproductive health care workforce. CARE COURT TO LAUNCH IN SEVEN CALIFORNIA COUNTIES Via Maggie Angst... Starting Monday, seven California counties will begin accepting patient referrals for the new system that will compel residents struggling with mental health and addiction into court-ordered treatment. Community Assistance, Recovery and Empowerment, or CARE Court, was crafted by Newsom last year as a way to provide treatment and housing for people who are suffering from severe forms of mental illness and are unable to care for themselves. Newsom is specifically targeting people with behavioral health issues who are living in encampments. During a new briefing Wednesday to promote the launch, Dr. Mark Ghaly, California Health & Human Services Agency secretary, said its clear the status quo cant be where we accept. The goal of CARE is to, for this very specific population of Californians, provide an opportunity, and a pathway to get the kind of services I think so many believe are necessary, he said. Disability rights and mental health advocates worry that CARE Court and other recent mental health proposals from the governor will lead to an uptick in involuntary holds, further traumatizing people diagnosed with behavioral health issues. Ghaly said he believed temporary holds in care facilities were better than long-term stays in jails and prisons, where some people could end up. We need something to change, and we put together a pathway and an opportunity to foster that change, he said. As part of CARE Court, counties are required to launch specialized courts tasked with designing treatment plans and tracking cases for referred patients suffering from serious psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia. Glenn, Orange, Riverside, San Diego, San Francisco, Stanislaus, and Tuolumne counties are launching the program on Monday, followed by Los Angeles County December 1. The states remaining counties, including Sacramento, have until Dec. 1, 2024, to comply. The Newsom administration estimates 7,000 to 12,000 people would meet CARE Court criteria a small portion of the states more than 170,000 homeless. QUOTE OF THE DAY As we continue to witness the growing number of attacks against our LGBTQ+ community in California and across the nation, todays legal action is a testament to our ongoing commitment to ensuring the rights of transgender youth are safeguarded and fully available. - California Attorney General Rob Bonta, in a statement discussing his filing of a 20-state amicus brief against an Indiana law blocking transgender youths from accessing gender-affirming medical care. Best of The Bee: The El Dorado County Board of Supervisors sat through a stream of antisemitic phone calls Tuesday afternoon, from people voicing disapproval of the boards recent vote to rescind its designation of July as American Christian Heritage Month, via Jenavieve Hatch . Sacramento County for six months has been sitting on a $25 million check from the state of California to shelter unhoused people living on the American River Parkway, via Theresa Clift . Gas prices at California pumps are on the rise, and there is a possibility that prices will continue to increase, via Jacqueline Pinedo . Following the discovery that a county medical contractor was smuggling fentanyl into the Sacramento County Main Jail, Sheriff Jim Cooper is calling for an overhaul of the jails health care system, via Theresa Clift. Gov. Gavin Newsom has made it official. Californias fast food workers will have a minimum wage of $20 per hour. He signed AB 1228 Thursday morning, culminating a yearslong campaign by workers and advocates to increase pay and improve conditions. Under the new law, starting pay will increase April 1. It also creates a first-in-the nation fast food council to oversee future wage increases and enact workplace regulations. This state is about inclusion and thats the foundational principle that were advancing here today, said Newsom, while surrounded by hundreds of fast food workers in Los Angeles. Passage of the measure, introduced by Assemblyman Chris Holden, D-Pasadena, was all but assured earlier in the month after labor groups and fast-food companies reached an agreement. In exchange for the wage increase, corporations will not be held liable for workforce violations at their franchisees and the fast food council is less powerful then before. Other changes include setting a limit in wages increases and prohibiting localities from enforcing their own fast food minimum wage ordinances. Newsom, whose office acted as a mediator, said negotiations were easily a hundred plus hours in the last few months. The law remains contingent on the expected withdrawal of a referendum proposal by fast food companies that would have challenged the council in the 2024 ballot. Similar ballot fights have cost hundreds of millions of dollars. Signature of AB 1228 preserves the franchise business model in the state and solidifies the best possible outcome for workers, local restaurant owners, and brands, said Matt Haller, President and CEO of the International Franchise Association. The minimum wage hike will apply to fast-food workers at chains with more than 60 locations nationwide. Businesses that make and bake bread on-site, including Panera Bread, are excluded from the new law. The current median wage for a fast-food worker in California is $16.31/hr. Future increases will be determined by the new nine-member council consisting of two representatives of the industry, two franchisees or restaurant owners, two employees, two advocates for employees and one neutral member of the public, who will serve as chair. It is set to hold its first meeting by March 1. Newsom pushed back against criticism that Californians will pay more for their Starbucks and McDonalds. He cited the The Fight for $15 movement, which raised the minimum wage to $10 per hour in 2016 and and $15 per hour last year. Theyve said the same as exact thing before and it didnt happen, Newsom said. A Jan. 1, 2029 sunset date is included in the law, meaning it will expire unless extended. The labor organization Service Employees International Union was the main advocate for the bill and celebrated alongside the governor on Thursday. Workers and union leaders rallied around Newsom at the podium as he prepared to sign the bill. They chanted emotionally in English and Spanish and pumped their fists into the air. Anneisha Williams, a Los Angeles fast-food worker, had tears running down her face as Newsom handed her the bill with his signature. We did it, yelled Williams, while holding the paper in the air. SEIU has worked for more than a decade to organize in fast food restaurants, including leading campaigns to raise the states minimum wage and last years fast food bill. We were fighting poverty, we were fighting racism, we were fighting exploitation of working people, said SEIU California President David Huerta. Along the way you faced retaliation, insults, resistance from multibillion dollar corporations and you proved all of them wrong. Generation Z protesters were arrested outside of Speaker Kevin McCarthys (R-Calif.) office Thursday. More than 150 teenagers made their way into McCarthys office where they demanded he support bridge funding to keep the government open, including funding the Federal Emergency Management Administration to respond to climate disasters. U.S. Capitol Police later arrested 18 of them outside the Speakers office, according to the Sunrise Movement, a climate activist group. Today showed that the GOP is nothing but a group of cowards, Sunrise Movement organizer Adah Crandall said in a press release. They chose to arrest a bunch of teenagers instead of facing us. They would rather shut down the government than do their jobs and protect our generation. Our generation is watching and we will hold them accountable for their actions. A bail fund on GoFundMe has been set up for the arrested protesters with the goal to get the 18 out of jail by the end of the afternoon, according to the site. A group of young climate activists were just arrested after occupying speaker of the house Kevin McCarthys office, according to the funding page. They demanded the speaker to not shut down the government, and instead continue funding critical services that keep people safe from the climate crisis and financial strain. The arrests come after a different group of activists had a sit-in in McCarthys office earlier this month on funding for HIV and AIDS programs. Several of the demonstrators were also arrested by Capitol Police at the time. Today showed that the thousands of young people rising up around the country are stronger than the GOP, said Shiva Rajbhandari, another Sunrise organizer. Our generation is ready to do whatever it takes to stop the climate crisis and win the Green New Deal: whether its getting arrested in the halls of Congress, taking over our schools, or getting elected ourselves. Capitol Police said they arrested 18 people for Crowding, Obstructing, or Incommoding in a statement emailed to The Hill. This morning, people started demonstrating inside the Rayburn House Office Building, which is not allowed in Congressional Buildings, the Capitol Police said. After multiple warnings, the demonstrators refused to stop illegally demonstrating. The Hill has reached out to McCarthys office. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Marine 2nd Lt. Matthew Weiss was watching a news segment in which senior military officers gave their thoughts on the militarys recruiting crisis when a thought occurred to him. The generals and admirals who set policy for whom he has immense respect, he stressed joined the military 30 years to 35 years ago. Hey, a second lieutenant or a new private or lance corporal is the perfect person to actually be talking about these issues, thought Weiss, now age 25. So Weiss wrote a book, published in July by Night Vision Publishing, called We Dont Want You, Uncle Sam: Examining the Military Recruiting Crisis with Generation Z. At 21 chapters, the book covers a lot of ground: emphasizing ways the military can give back to society, increasing remote work options, offering shorter contracts, loosening marijuana policies, eradicating sexual assault and more. The process of joining the military is still fresh for Weiss, who became a Marine only a year and a half ago, he told Marine Corps Times. A native of Tenafly, New Jersey, he received a bachelor of science degree and an MBA from the University of Pennsylvanias Wharton School of Business. After graduating in 2021, he worked at the defense company Anduril before heading to Officer Candidates School in January 2022. Graduating as a Marine officer was one of the happiest moments of his life, he told Marine Corps Times. Marine 2nd Lt. Matthew Weiss, center, and his parents pose for a photo right after his graduation from Officer Candidates School at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, March 26, 2022. (2nd Lt. Matthew Weiss/Marine Corps) Weiss, now a signals intelligence officer stationed in Darwin, Australia, said his reasons for pursuing a commission were twofold. Internally, I am patriotic Ive always wanted to do something and serve, he said. Externally, though, I really saw this as an investment in myself, an investment in being able to learn how to be a leader, an investment in my career, for that matter. I think a lot of Gen Zers are like that now. Gen Z typically is defined as those born after 1996 and before the early 2010s. Older Gen Zers are now in their late teens and early-to-mid twenties the prime military recruitment ages. But the Defense Department is having trouble attracting these young adults. In 2022, the services struggled to meet accession targets, and, in early September, with less than a month to spare, the Army had met only two-thirds of its target for the fiscal year. Military leaders, recruiters and observers have blamed the recruiting challenges on factors ranging from the lure of the private sector to a new medical screening system to woke DoD policies to a lack of patriotism and a rise in obesity among Gen Zers. Some people think of Gen Z as the everyone-gets-a-trophy generation, Weiss said. But thats not how he sees it. The generation that grew up during the global financial crisis, the divisive 2016 election between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, and the COVID-19 pandemic has learned to strive in a more difficult, more competitive world, Weiss said. Social media, with its numerical feedback of how people stack up to others in the form of likes and followers, also fostered Gen Zers competitive streak. The military needs to offer this generation competition and incentives, Weiss believes. One approach Weiss proposes is for certain commands to give incentives to squads or units that outperform others. That could come in the form of money like the beer money that accomplished Marine marksmen received in the early 20th century, Weiss said. Or it could come in the form of on-the-spot promotions or more funds for a units birthday ball. In Weiss view, the military also should revamp its policies about which medical conditions disqualify applicants for service. Increasingly, applicants have been forced to seek medical waivers, even for conditions, like allergies or long-healed broken bones, that Weiss thinks may not affect job performance. The Genesis of todays recruiting crisis Weiss said he doesnt see his proposals as lowering standards. Rather, he argued, they would attract more qualified applicants, allowing the military to raise standards. Marine Corps Times asked retired Army Sgt. 1st Class Brian Jennings, 56, who worked in Army recruiting from 19972005 and has since worked in civilian recruiting, to weigh in on some of the ideas Weiss proposes. Dropping the ban on people who have smoked marijuana? Yes. It was just a farce, said Jennings, who recalled it was difficult to find teens who hadnt smoked marijuana in the late 1990s in Daytona Beach, Florida. Loosening the medical requirements? The military should certainly work to approve waivers for psychological conditions like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder prescriptions, Jennings said. The reason for the strict medical standards, in his view, is that the military wants to prevent people from dropping out of entry-level training because of medical conditions and receiving disability payments for life. Shorter contract options? All that is in correlation to how long youre training, Jennings said. Service members receiving longer, more expensive training should have to stay in for longer, the retired soldier said. Jennings view is that a lot of the recruiting challenges could be fixed by rethinking basic training for those in noncombat jobs. The Marine Corps, in particular, has an emphasis on every Marine being a rifleman who would be ready to fight if needed an idea that is core to that services ethos. While Jennings said he liked Army basic training, he didnt find it particularly relevant to his initial job as a military policeman. If youre joining the Army to be a cook, for example, youre never going to throw a hand grenade, he said. Weiss said he doesnt want everyone to agree with everything in the book. He just wants to spark discussion. Everyone has a say in recruiting, because everyone was recruited, Weiss said. Everyone, sort of by nature, has a valid opinion that should be counted and understood. In his campaign for governor, Kentuckys Republican candidate has couched gender-affirming health care for transgender youth as experimental, unproven and mutilation. Kentucky GOP Attorney General Daniel Cameron and his running mate, state Sen. Robby Mills, R-Henderson, have made defense of recent anti-trans policies passed by the state Legislature a central theme in their gubernatorial bid to restore Kentuckys values. Camerons position is clear: He has vowed to protect these values by defending a law that bans trans girls from playing girls sports, and another banning gender-affirming health care and restricting school teaching on gender and sexuality. To contrast these policies with the stance of Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear, who vetoed both bills, Cameron characterizes the governor as wanting to protect transgender surgeries for kids the so-called experimental health care. Puberty blockers are unproven and harmful to adolescents and removal of healthy body tissue is a radical and unsafe process for gender-confused minors, Mills tweeted in August. This is a mischaracterization of gender-affirming medical care, which can but does not always include puberty blockers, hormone therapy and, even rarer, gender-reassignment surgery. This type of care, provided only with permission from a trans patients parent or guardian, is endorsed as the standard of care by major U.S. medical associations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Medical Association and the American Psychological Association. But Mills and Camerons definition of experimental and unproven are less clear, though court filings from the attorney general in a case challenging the constitutionality of Kentuckys gender-affirming care ban provide some insight. What is gender-affirming medical care? Any sort of health care affirming an individuals gender identity. Gender dysphoria, the clinical name for being transgender, is when a person experiences conflict between the sex they were assigned at birth and the gender they most emotionally and intellectually identify with. Examples of this type of care range from a health care provider using a persons correct name and pronouns, to offering counseling services that validate and affirm their individual experience. In some scenarios, doctors provide guidance on and write prescriptions for certain medications, such as testosterone and estrogen, to better align a persons internal and physical gender expression. But at its most fundamental level, gender-affirming care is affirming someones innate sense of their gender, said Dr. Keisa Fallin-Bennett, co-founder of the Transform Health Services at University of Kentucky HealthCare. Launched less than a decade ago with the goal of improving health equities for an underserved and marginalized population, Transform is designed to be a safe health care space for LGBTQ+ patients of all ages seeking all forms of health care. The Transform clinic sees patients from across the state, as its one of only two clinics in Kentucky offering this type of care. The other is UofL Healths endocrinology clinic. What kind of treatment can trans kids access? Though there are exceptions, medical intervention is often reserved for older trans adolescents and adult patients, and its the recommended standard of care to wait until an individual has turned 18 to undergo gender-reassignment surgery, according to the American Medical Association. Parent or guardian involvement and permission is a requisite when anyone under 18 is prescribed medication or surgery, and the same standard is the case for gender-affirming care. Like with any other type of medical care, decisions on how to meet the needs of trans patients and their families are tailored to each patient. I start by asking about their journey of discernment around their gender not fitting their body completely, Fallin-Bennett told the Herald-Leader earlier this year. With adolescents, when their parent is in the room, I ask the teens permission to also get the story from their parents. Its not a decision a minor or their family has reached on a whim. Most trans teens Fallin-Bennett sees, for instance, have an established relationship with a mental health therapist by the time they see a Transform provider for the first time. For many, they have been working on this and researching, even the younger ones, for at least a year by the time they get to us, she said. Though Fallin-Bennett and her colleagues are currently barred by state law from dispensing this medication, the clinic has roughly 40 underage trans patients on its roster, she said. How many trans kids are there in Kentucky? While talk of policies to regulate trans kids access to medical care dominated the state legislatures regular session earlier this year and Cameron has made it a focal point in his bid for governor, this population is a known minority, though accurate demographic data is lacking. A 2022 Pew Research Center survey estimated that only 1.6% of adults in the U.S. over 30 are trans, as are 5% of young adults. In Kentucky, trans teens make up an estimated 0.7% of Kentuckys 13-17 population (roughly 2,000 teens), according to a 2022 study from the Williams Institute analyzing Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data. Experimental vs. Off-label Cameron, in his capacity as the states top law enforcement office, has defended the constitutionality of Kentuckys recent gender-affirming health care ban in court. In the process, he has inaccurately represented what that type of health care entails. More specifically, his office has equated the use of off-label medication in gender-affirming health settings for kids and teens with such care being experimental and untested. In July, once the statewide health care ban became enforceable, the plaintiffs in the lawsuit seven trans teenagers and their families claiming the ban is unconstitutional asked for a judge to block the law from being enforced. That request was denied. But before it was denied, Cameron asked the court to let him impose the ban, because it protected children from such experimental care. Some of of his cited reasons for describing that care as experimental is its off-label usage of certain hormone therapies and puberty blockers, particularly in pediatric settings for trans kids. The plaintiffs argue that the treatments prohibited by SB 150 are not new and experimental (and) counter that, in general, the off-label use of prescription drugs is widespread, Cameron wrote in a July 21 filing. The plaintiffs, however, cannot dispute that the FDA is not prepared to put its credibility and careful testing protocols behind the use of puberty blockers and hormones to treat gender dysphoria in minors. Camerons definition of off-label is misleading, as is his characterization of such care as being experimental, which implies gender-affirming health care, even for teens, is somehow untested in clinical settings, according to people interviewed for this story. An off-label drug is one thats prescribed to a population of patients different from the very specific population the drug received FDA approval to treat. Such a scenario is highly common and not at all considered experimental, said Craig Martin, professor and associate dean of the University of Kentuckys College of Pharmacy. The term off-label gets conflated with experimental when the two really dont mean the same thing, he said. The need for this differentiation has surfaced in other court cases around the country challenging similar statewide trans youth health care bans. In a ruling on Wednesday temporarily blocking Montanas gender-affirming care ban, a judge explained that the medications banned under Montanas law remain the accepted standard of care, even when utilized in an off-label way. Accordingly, the American Academy of Pediatrics has stated that the off-label use of medication is neither experimentation, nor research. In their response to Camerons claim, lawyers for the American Civil Liberties Union of Kentucky and the National Center for Lesbian Rights said Cameron was wrongly conflating off-label with experimental. Medical care for transgender adolescents is guided by a well-established standard of care. More than two decades of research shows they are safe and effective in alleviating gender dysphoria and helping transgender adolescents lead healthy, productive lives, attorneys for the plaintiffs wrote. Cameron attempts to disregard this medical evidence because the banned treatments are not yet FDA approved to treat transgender minors. This argument proves too much, they wrote. Most medications prescribed for minors involve off-label use, which is not code for either experimental or improper, and does not signify that the FDA is unwilling to put its credibility and careful testing protocols behind this. Typically in the stringent and costly drug-approval process, the narrower the patient population participating in a clinical trial, the cleaner the data, and the more likely the drug is to receive a green light from the FDA for formal approval. But once a drug crosses that hurdle, its well within a licensed providers ability to prescribe the medication to patients beyond the just the group it was expressly approved for, as long as theres published evidence showing its effectiveness, Martin said. Aspirin, a medicine cabinet staple, is probably the most common example of widespread off-label usage, he explained. On the package labeling in every bottle, it makes clear: aspirin is FDA approved to help prevent heart disease in adults. But it didnt go so far as to label it as preventing heart disease in diabetic patients, who are among the highest risk for cardiac events, he said. Even though it is the standard of care to give a diabetic patient who is at risk for heart disease an aspirin every day, Martin said, The use of that medication is officially off-label. Fallin-Bennett said use of medication in this way is very common. I think thats what people dont understand: theyre probably taking a medication right now thats off-label. Nationwide, up to 20% of all prescriptions are off-label, according to the American Medical Association. That share is much higher in pediatric populations. One study from the Oklahoma College of Medicine estimated 38% of all pediatric prescriptions are off-label. This is the result of more adults than kids participating in clinical trials with pharmaceutical companies seeking FDA approval, Martin said. Though the goal is to ultimately enroll more kids in clinical trials, the lack of kids in these trials isnt necessarily indicative of a medications risk, he added. Its just a hard population to wrangle for a trial that may last months. In the meantime, though the prescription of puberty blockers a reversible medication is a technically off-label medication for trans teens, that reality does not mean its experimental, Martin said. The terms off-label and experimental are often used as a boogeyman, he said. But its not illegal, it does not mean its unapproved, its not wrong or amoral, and its not bad medicine. In Kentuckys lawsuit, which is currently before the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals, biomedical ethics and public health scholars filed a brief in support of the trans plaintiffs. The argument: Kentuckys health care ban reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of how scientific knowledge and medical standards are generated. Georgia state Sen. Colton Moore , who demanded a special session of the Legislature for an investigation of Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis (D), was indefinitely suspended from the chambers GOP caucus Thursday. Despite the fact 32 of 33 Republican State Senators, the Governor, Lt. Governor, Speaker of the House, and the Chairman of the Georgia Republican Party agree that a Special Session to take action against the Fulton County District Attorney is impossible, Senator Moore has a right to his opinion, according to a statement posted to X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, by the Georgia Senate Republicans. However, during his advocacy for his ill-conceived proposal, Senator Moore has knowingly misled people across Georgia and our nation, causing unnecessary tension and hostility, while putting his Caucus colleagues and their families at risk of personal harm, the statement continued. Moore called for a special session for an investigation into Willis last month after the district attorney indicted former President Trump on charges related to attempts to overturn the 2020 election. The Legislature has this great check and balance when it comes to controlling the purse. Ultimately, from what Ive seen, I think she should completely be defunded of any state dollars. People in northwest Georgia and Georgians all over dont want their tax dollars going to fund this type of political persecution, Moore told The Hill at the time. Moore hit back at his suspension, saying he will now refer to the GOP Senate caucus as the RINO caucus, meaning Republican in name only. The Georgia RINOs responded to my call to fight back against the Trump witch hunts by acting like children and throwing me out of the caucus, Moore said in a post on X. But Im not going anywhere. The people of Georgia are 100% with me, he continued. This is the fight of our lifetime, and I will continue to double down to defend the rule of law and do what is right. I will continue to EXPOSE Fani Willis and the RINOs covering for her. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Berlin A video circulating this week on social media shows people celebrating Oktoberfest near the East German town of Bautzen, in Saxony, seemingly giving the salute associated with Adolf Hitler and the Nazi regime. Police in Saxony and the State Security Service have launched investigations. Police were alerted to the video circulating on the platform X, formerly known as Twitter, a spokesman confirmed. Three men and a woman in traditional Oktoberfest costumes can be seen in the video, shot on Sept. 24, seemingly giving the Hitler salute several times. In the background, the marching song "Erika" can be heard playing, which was popular among the military forces of Nazi Germany. While showing Nazi symbols and most other public displays of support for Nazism is illegal in Germany today, the song itself is not forbidden. The song's composer, Herms Niel, was a member of the Nazi Party and personally conducted the marching bands at the regime's Reich Party congresses in Nuremberg. There was no statement from the Oktoberfest organizers in Bautzen about why the song was being played at the annual festivities. Visitors celebrate the world's largest beer festival, the 188th Oktoberfest, in Munich, Germany, in a Sept. 17, 2023 file photo. / Credit: REUTERS/Angelika Warmuth On Sept. 22, just a couple days before the video in Bautzen was shot, five youths in the larger city of Chemnitz, also in Saxony, gave the Hitler salute on a street and chanted "Heil Hitler." Investigations were launched into the suspected use of symbols of unconstitutional organizations. Parts of Saxony have seen a political shift to the right in recent years, with nationalist tendencies growing. According to recent polls, the right-wing, populist AfD party currently has the support of about 35% of the electorate in the state. Gen. Milley responds to Trump post accusing general of treason | 60 Minutes North Korea says it will expel Travis King, U.S. soldier who ran across border Arrest warrent issued for suspect in killing of 26-year-old Baltimore tech CEO BERLIN (Reuters) -Berlin will disburse aid to migrant charity groups operating in the Mediterranean imminently, German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock said on Thursday, defending the work of sea rescuers as vital amid a spat with Rome on the issue. A sharp increase in migrant arrivals this year has led to differences around Europe towards charity boats trying to help asylum seekers on one of the world's most perilous sea crossings. "We talked about this today because of the different views with regard to funding - and in three cases, the payment of the funds is imminent," Baerbock said at a press conference with her Italian counterpart, Antonio Tajani , in Berlin. Earlier this week, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni wrote to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz telling him she learned with "astonishment" of the German initiative to finance the migrant charity groups. Baerbock said her government was lobbying at the EU level for a new European sea rescue mission. "As long as this doesn't exist, civilian sea rescuers in the Mediterranean are performing life-saving tasks," she said. Tajani also weighed in on the issue, saying that he had reminded his German counterpart of Meloni's letter. "Nobody is waging a war against NGOs, we only say that they cannot ... act as a sort of magnet to attract irregular migrants," Tajani said. The minister told Friday's La Repubblica newspaper that sea NGOs should bring rescued migrants to their flag nation state, rather than Italy, and recalled that several of them are registered in Germany. "This is the only possible solution," he said. Italy's right-wing government is pursuing a hard line on immigration as it faces a surge in arrivals from North Africa, and has also restricted the activities of migrant rescue NGOs. Earlier this week, the deputy leader of Italy's co-ruling League party, Andrea Crippa, evoked Nazism to criticise Berlin's centre-left government, and called its support for NGOs a hostile attempt to destabilise Rome's rightist administration. While "80 years ago the German government decided to invade (other) states with the army", it is now "funding the invasion of clandestines" in countries ruled by governments it does not like, Crippa told the Affaritaliani website. (Reporting by Friederike Heine and Francesca Piscioneri, editing by Alvise Armellini and Anil D'Silva) Germany's regulatory agency approved on Sept. 28 the plans of the arms manufacturer Rheinmetall to set up a joint venture in Kyiv together with the Ukrainian Defense Industry, Ukraine's state-owned defense company. This new enterprise will provide "maintenance, assembly, production, and development of military vehicles" and initially operate exclusively on the territory of Ukraine, the German Federal Cartel Office said. "The defense industry is in flux given the geopolitical situation," said Andreas Mundt, the agency's president. "This project will not result in any competitive overlaps in Germany. We gave our approval quickly." Rheinmetall said that the first steps in the cooperation will focus on the maintenance and repair of vehicles transferred to Ukraine as part of Germany's multilateral "Ringtausch" equipment exchange program. Under this scheme, European allies are providing Ukraine with older Soviet equipment in exchange for German armaments. As the next step, Rheinmetall wants to manufacture select products in Ukraine and even develop military systems by joint German-Ukrainian specialist teams further in the future. In May, the German arms manufacturer presented plans to set up a joint venture with Ukraine's state defense contractor to produce Fuchs armored personnel carriers. Later in the summer, Rheinmetall said it wanted to open an armored vehicle plant on Ukrainian territory. Read also: Rheinmetall confirms Luna drone system for Ukraine in 2023 Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. An investigation into a possible animal cruelty case was underway in Gilbert after several dogs were found at a residence in need of medical attention. Officers responded to a residence near East Ray Road on Sept. 13 for a welfare check after they received a report of a possible animal problem at the property, according to Gilbert police. The people at the property appeared to be in the process of moving, according to police. Officers were told the animals at the location were no longer there and had been rehomed. As a precautionary measure, the incident was forwarded to the Arizona Humane Society for follow up, according to police. On Saturday, police said officers responded to the same residence after receiving a call to assist another agency. Police did not clarify which agency. Police said when officers arrived they found multiple dogs on the property, some of them needing medical care and attention. Police said the Arizona Humane Society was immediately notified, but the organization told police that there were limited resources available to respond at the time. This was about the same time the Arizona Humane Society helped Chandler police rescue more than 50 dogs in poor condition on a property in Chandler. The dogs that did not need immediate care were left on the premises "as instructed," according to police. Police said dogs who needed care were sent to local veterinarian clinics and that officers provided the remaining dogs with clean water until the Arizona Humane Society responded to the residence the next day. Police said there was an active investigation underway as of Tuesday. The Arizona Humane Society's written review of the incident will allow investigators to determine if there was enough probable cause to forward charges to the Gilbert Prosecutor's Office for review. No arrests had been made as of Wednesday evening. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Gilbert police find dogs in need of medical attention at home Gilgo Beach killings suspect Rex Heuermann has petitioned the court to reclaim more than 280 guns that were seized from his home in July so he can sell them and financially help his family while in jail. The guns, which defense attorney Sabato Caponi said have significant financial value, could be sold to provide a temporary but urgently needed respite from the financial hardships afflicting the Heuermann family, the motion filed last Thursday states. The firearms were seized in July when Suffolk County police searched their home in a wantonly destructive and reckless manner, the motion adds. In as much as Rex Heuermann remains incarcerated and his pistol license has been temporarily suspended, this Court should order the return of the seized property to a person designated by Rex Heuermann, individual or licensed gun dealer, who may legally possess the items, Caponi wrote. Heuermann, a 59-year-old architectural consultant who lived with his family in Massapequa Park in Nassau County, has been behind bars since his arrest in July on three charges of murder. He has pleaded not guilty to the killings of Melissa Barthelemy in 2009 and Megan Waterman and Amber Costello in 2010. The case stems from the discovery of nearly a dozen sets of human remains along Long Islands South Shore between 2010 and 2011. Four of the victims were found buried near each other off Ocean Parkway in Gilgo Beach, and they were dubbed the Gilgo Four. Barthelemy, Waterman and Costello make up three of the Giglo Four, and Heuermann is the prime suspect in the death of the fourth, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, authorities have said. The causes of death for the women were determined to be homicidal violence, which ruled out the use of a firearm, Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney has said. The defenses motion was filed in response to a prosecution motion asking the court to allow the transfer of Heuermanns guns and other firearm items to the Nassau County Police Department. The prosecutions motion, filed in early September, requested the transfer because their analysis of the firearms, magazines, cases, attachments, ammunition, bullet fragments and shell casings they seized has concluded. They added that they want to transfer the guns and other firearm items because some of them appears to have been in violation of New York State gun laws. The motion lists out the full collection of the weapons cache over about 35 pages. The collection includes a number of assault rifles, pistols and shotguns, as well as several antique firearms, according to the document. The defense argued that the court lacks the authority to relinquish them to Nassau police, because there has not been a request for the property from the other court, which is required. They also stated there is no matter currently pending before any court in Nassau County related to the seized guns and ammunition, another requirement, according to the defense motion. In addition, the defense cited precedent in their motion, stating, When property is no longer needed as evidence, the government must establish, in an appropriate proceeding, an independent interest to justify any further retention and reminded the court that prosecutors said that they no longer needed the property as evidence. Separately, Heuermann appeared in court Wednesday for a short status hearing on his upcoming trial. He told the judge he has been able to review case evidence in his cell and he had been averaging two to three hours of reviewing. In court, prosecutors said they gave Heuermanns legal team over 10 terabytes of information to review in August, including subpoenas and court records totaling roughly 8,000 pages. Prosecutors gave additional evidence Wednesday, including about 5,000 pages of evidence related to two victims, the grand jury testimony, police memo books from the search of his home and video surveillance. The next hearing is set for November 15. Outside court, Heuermanns attorney Michael Brown said his client has been an active participant in the case and is doing the best he can. Hes not guilty of this. Now, he has to sit in custody, be away from his family, be away from his wife and kids, not work, not produce for his family and support them and sit in a jail cell until this case comes to fruition, he said. CNNs Eric Levenson contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The man accused of killing three women as part of a notorious serial-killing case in New York spoke briefly in a court hearing as prosecutors presented DNA evidence they argued demonstrated the mans connection to the killings. The hearing came months after police arrested architect Rex Heuermann in Manhattan, nearly 40 miles from his home in Massapequa Park on Long Island. Heuermann has been charged over the killings of three women in the so-called Gilgo Beach case, a case that has captivated Suffolk county residents, police and the nation for more than a decade. Related: Trumps business empire could collapse like falling dominoes after ruling Also in recent developments, Heuermann asked a Suffolk county judge last week to return the more than 280 guns that police seized during a search of his property. Heuermann has pleaded not guilty in the killings of three women: Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman and Amber Costello, whose bodies were discovered near one another along Ocean Parkway at Gilgo Beach. Their remains were among nearly a dozen found at Gilgo Beach more than a decade ago, between 2010 and 2011. Prosecutors say Heuermann is a key suspect in the killing of a fourth woman, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, who disappeared in 2007. No charges have been filed in her case, though prosecutors said in a court document the investigation was expected to wrap soon, CNN reported. On Wednesday, prosecutors told the court that a DNA swab they had taken from Heuermanns cheek matched DNA obtained from pizza crust in a pizza box found in a Manhattan trash bin earlier this year. The pizza DNA sample had already matched male hair found inside a sack that wrapped one of the womens bodies, they said. The Suffolk county district attorney, Ray Tierney, reportedly told the court that the latest swab sample erases all doubt. Heuermanns defense attorney Michael Brown questioned the precision of the mitochondrial DNA swab, telling CNN after the hearing that a significant amount of people could be the source of this hair. Brown added in court that the defense team had not received any DNA evidence as part of its ongoing discovery. In a separate motion by the defense last week, Heuermann asked a Suffolk county judge if he could reclaim the 280 guns that police took during a search of his Long Island home. The motion filed by Heuermanns attorney Sabato Caponi noted that the guns, which had significant financial value, should return to someone designated by Rex Heuermann, individual or licensed gun dealer, who may legally possess the items, Newsday reported. Their sale would provide a temporary but urgently needed respite from the financial hardships afflicting the Heuermann family, Caponis motion added. The defense teams motion came in response to a request from Suffolk county prosecutors to send Heuermanns guns to the police department in Nassau county, where Heuermann lived, after prosecutors concluded their analysis of the cache of ammunition, assault rifles, pistols, shotguns and antique guns. Heuermanns attorneys argued that the court could not give the guns to Nassau police because there had not been a required motion for the guns in the county court. Some of the weapons appears to have been in violation of New Yorks gun laws, prosecutors said in their September motion. If they are found to be illegal, Heuermann could face weapons charges. The judge is expected to determine whether to transfer the guns to Nassau county next week, News12 Long Island reported. Prosecutors disclosed at Wednesdays hearing that they had given Heuermanns defense team at least 10 terabytes of data, including 8,000 pages of court records and subpoenas. They also gave 5,000 pages of evidence related to the cases of two women killed, records from the search of Heuermanns home, and grand jury testimony. So far, Heuermann, who stood in court in handcuffs in a suit jacket and khaki cargo pants, reportedly told the judge that he had, on average, two to three hours of reviewing the evidence in his cell. This article was amended on September 28 2023 to clarify that Heuermann was arrested in Manhattan, not at his home on Long Island, as we said originally. General Motors and Ford appear to be feuding over the use of Chinese battery technology in electric cars. GM executives have reportedly warned that Ford's use of the tech could give China a boost. At stake is whether Ford's cars made with Chinese tech will qualify for $7,500 EV tax credits. General Motors and Ford appear to be at odds over the use of Chinese battery technology in electric cars. GM CEO Mary Barra and her team warned members of Congress in June that Ford's use of the technology could pave the way for China to dominate US car manufacturing, the Wall Street Journal reported. GM's apparent rebuke of Ford's strategy came after Ford Motor CEO Jim Farley had earlier told the lawmakers that using the technology would give the US a leg up in its EV battle with China. The battle should matter to anyone in the market for EVs. Starting next year, buyers won't be able to claim a $7,500 tax credit on electric cars if they contain battery parts from what the US considers a "foreign entity of concern." It's not clear yet whether that means Ford's use of Chinese battery tech will disqualify some of its cars. But it would certainly be an advantage for GM if it did, because it would make their EVs considerably cheaper than Ford's. President Biden will eventually determine the rules of the tax credit and what's considered a foreign entity. Ford, for its part, is adamant that using Chinese tech shouldn't disqualify its cars. "It would be absurd to classify Ford or its fully owned subsidiary as a foreign entity, much less one of concern. We're Ford, and we're all-in on America," Chris Smith, Ford's chief government affairs officer, told the Journal. A GM spokesperson, meanwhile, suggested the company wasn't trying to pick a fight with its cross-town rival, telling the Journal: "This is not about GM vs. Ford." Ford and GM didn't immediately respond to requests for comment. China at the bargaining table Ford halted construction on a new battery plant in Michigan this week as Republican lawmakers apply more scrutiny to the company's ties to a Chinese battery maker. When Ford announced the $3.5 billion EV battery plant earlier this year, the company said it would be contracting battery technology from China's Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd., or CATL. Ford has insisted that the plant with CATL, which it said would create 2,500 new jobs in the area, will be "built and run by a wholly owned Ford subsidiary." The company said the decision to pause construction came as Ford assessed whether they could "competitively operate the plant," Ford Spokesman T.R. Reid told Bloomberg. The decision to pause construction in Marshall, Michigan, earlier this week drew the ire of United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain, who is currently leading unionized workers at all three Detroit automakers on a historic strike. "The Marshall threat, as I like to call it, is just more of the same from the companies," Fain told reporters after a Tuesday visit from President Biden at a GM picket line in Michigan. "All the workers are asking for is their share of dignity in the workplace, and this is the type of thing we have to deal with in bargaining." Fain has a Friday morning livestream scheduled with UAW members, during which he's expected to announce more strike targets in the absence of progress at the bargaining table. Ford factories were spared last week due to their willingness to move toward the UAW's demands on eliminating tiered wages, but the Dearborn, Michigan-based car company is now back in the hot seat. Read the original article on Business Insider Former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, Florida governor Ron DeSantis, US entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, South Carolina senator Tim Scott and former Vice President Mike Pence arrive on stage prior to the debate (EPA) Another Republican debate is in the books, and the race is still very much divided between Donald Trump and the Everyone Else mob. While the former president was absent for another matchup of the 2024 Republican field, his rivals tore each other to shreds with a vigour that seemed to have grown since their last meeting. Also growing: the fields exasperation with Mr Trumps total lack of interest in meeting them head-on. Heres what we learned as a field full of Republicans gathered a second time for a chaotic, aggressive and at times very personal brawl. 1. A labour fight makes for awkward conversation Tonight, America got to witness a stage full of big business-loving Republicans dance around the issue of unionisation, organised labour and the power of concentrated wealth in the US economy. Sure, there were some delicate attempts by the Fox Business moderators to pull out substantive answers from the candidates. But in general, the candidates onstage refused to provide a clear vision for striking autoworkers in America, and were not pressed in any real way to do so. The candidates gave no indication as to whether they agreed with the premise that workers should earn a higher rate of a companys profits if a company is doing well and whether the striking United Autoworkers (UAW)s demands were reasonable, by extension. There was also no pushback from moderators against the idea that a push for further development of electric vehicles a policy supported by the union was somehow responsible for the auto industrys supposed woes. 2. Ron DeSantis finds his voice, for better or worse Speaking of awkward: Ron DeSantis was at the debate tonight. Having apparently read the coverage of his performance at the first debate cautious, unwilling to stand out the Republican largely regarded as holding second place in the crowded field of candidates decided to speak up more often as the candidates traded jabs on Wednesday. And, well, the results were about what one would expect. He and others certainly demonstrated a greater willingness to take on the races frontrunner. But his ability to land jabs against the former president was mixed. A clean hit near the end on the issue of Mr Trump trashing anti-abortion activists for supposedly costing Republicans a stronger performance in 2022 followed a deeply weird moment in which Mr DeSantis griped that Mr Trump was not onstage to answer for allowing the national debt to increase during his presidency. The problem? Chris Christie had made the exact same point, almost word for word, just a minute earlier. In an early applause line with the audience at the Republican presidential debate, both DeSantis and Christie attacked Trump for his absence from the stage as they dodged questions about whether Republicans would be to blame for a government shutdown.https://t.co/62eQvW3ruh pic.twitter.com/bkkuatAJ6Q The Boston Globe (@BostonGlobe) September 28, 2023 The former governor missed an opportunity to crucify his opponent over the robotic moment. Maybe he was just drawn off guard completely; more likely, he doesnt view Mr DeSantis as enough of a threat to warrant a beating like he gave Marco Rubio in 2016. 3. Donald Trump is missing in action Mr DeSantis and Mr Christie would both go on to repeat their assertion that Donald Trump was disrespecting Americans and Republican voters both by refusing to show up to the GOP debates. And they were not the only ones more eager to turn fire on the frontrunner this time around. Perhaps the most revealing moment was when Vivek Ramaswamy, who once again found himself praising the former president (and his current rival for the nomination), gathered the strength to assert that the America First agenda did not belong to Mr Trump or any other politician. There was also Nikki Haley , a former member of the Trump administration, asserting that her former boss did not understand the fentanyl threat posed by the Chinese market. But there were no mentions of Mr Trumps mounting legal battles or the very real possibility that the ex-president could be facing the possibility of jail time as the general election begins next year. 4. Everybody hates Vivek If one dynamic carried over from the first debate, it was the GOP fields shared distaste for one of their own: Vivek Ramaswamy. With even greater vigour than they displayed at the first debate, Mr Ramaswamys competitors took turns insulting him and portraying him as a political animal who changed his positions on a dime. Tim Scott bashed him over his understanding of already existing US-Ukraine policies, as well as his past reversal of opinion regarding Donald Trump and, allegedly, US-China politics. Nikki Haley said she felt dumber having listened to him. Chris Christie dismissively barked at him to put his hand down. And Mike Pence waited for the quietest moment possibly to lob a zinger about Mr Ramaswamys past lack of voter participation. "Honestly, every time I hear you I feel a little bit dumber for what you say." Nikki Haley to Vivek Ramaswamy as he tries to interrupt her #GOPDebate pic.twitter.com/8dhPso1RSL Pod Save America (@PodSaveAmerica) September 28, 2023 Mr Ramaswamy was hopelessly outnumbered, and for the most part failed to land any substantive hits against his foes in response. Consider him the biggest loser of tonights matchup. 5. Nikki Haley comes ready to brawl Bring it! That was Nikki Haley, former UN ambassador and governor of South Carolina, daring her longtime colleague and South Carolina ally Tim Scott to duel her over their states gas tax in the waning minutes of Wednesdays debate. In 12 years, where have you been, Tim? she pressed him at one point. If Ms Haley was ready to trade words with a familiar face like Mr Scott, she was positively itching for the chance to go after her other opponents as well. Her effort to reject Mr Ramaswamy as unserious and unintelligent was easily the most-tweeted-about moment of the night, though she took aim at others like Mr Trump and Mr DeSantis as well. Throughout the course of the night, the ex-governor proved to have understood the assignment: break out of the pack and grab attention. Whether she is successful is still up for debate, but theres no question that Ms Haley played the most aggressive game onstage this evening. 5-year-old Brendyn Rochon smiles while recovering from a surgery on his arm at the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin in Milwaukee. PLYMOUTH A GoFundMe is raising money for a 5-year-old boy who lost his hand in a lawnmowing accident. Brendyn Rochon was riding an electric dirt bike around the neighborhood Aug. 27 when he accidentally collided with a push lawnmower. Brendyn fell off the bike and got his left hand caught underneath the lawnmower, according to information shared with his father Jeff. Angel Rivers Certo, a resident in the neighborhood, rushed over after hearing yelling. She was working in the yard with her husband Duane, and initially thought kids were fighting. As she got closer, she said she realized something was terribly wrong. Angel told Brendyn he had a bad boo boo, and she needed to help him. Without anything to use as a torniquet to stop the wound bleeding, she used her shirt. Standing there in just my bra and shorts, she said. Together, Angel and Brendyn ran back to his house, Angel shouting for help. Duane had stayed at home to call 911 and tried catch up with them. A neighbor pointed out the Rochons house. I banged on the window until I heard the worst sounds Ive ever heard in my life when his parents saw him, she said. Brendyns parents Jeff and Renee rushed him to the Aurora Medical Center Sheboygan County. He then went to Childrens Hospital of Wisconsin in Milwaukee. He lost his left hand, fractured two bones in his forearm and cut a main artery, Jeff said. Brendyn underwent five surgeries, wore five different casts and went to countless appointments in the past month. The Rochon family still has to travel to the Milwaukee area. Jeff said Angel's makeshift torniquet helped stop the bleeding, which seemed to cease when they arrived at the Aurora hospital. Angel said Brendyn didnt need a blood transfusion and never lost consciousness. On the long road to recovery Brendyn is home recovering after spending a week in the hospital at the end of August. Hes on a lot of pain medications. He has two titanium rods from his elbow to his wrist keeping his bones together and recently had a skin graft done on his arm. Jeff said the family is adjusting back to normal life of work and school, and Brendyn might be able to adapt better to everyday tasks with one hand because he is so young. Brendyn is an "adventurous kid with a big personality. He likes to play video games, be outside and ride in Jeffs semi-truck. We're doing everything we can to help keep his mind off things, Jeff said. Brendyn goes outside, plays on his tablet, watches TV and spends time with his family and two dogs. Brendyn Rochon poses next to a motorcycle with a casted arm. Brendyn will partake in physical therapy and could also get a prosthetic hand. Angel stays in contact with the Rochons, who went to her house since the incident. The kid is always smiling, she said. Kid just pops right on my couch, starts going through YouTube on my TV. Only Brendyns parents see him on his tough days, Jeff said. Its been very hard on his mom and I and Brendyn, Jeff said. Trying to get him to adjust to a new life that he's going to have to learn everything. Everything he does is going to have to be done differently. A refresh on fire safety: 6 things to know about home fire prevention and safety in Sheboygan The community's near-constant inquiries about her role in the incident and ways to offer help overwhelmed Angel. It has constantly been on her mind, so she and Duane went to Utah for a break. Neither one of us has been sleeping well since, Angel said about herself and Duane. I've never seen any kind of physical trauma on anyone like that before. I've never been in a car accident. I've never been part of anything where someone was hurt that bad. And to see it on a little guy just really, really rough. Jeff said he and his family are "very thankful of everybody's prayers and support through all of this." GoFundMe aims to raise $100,000 Angel organized a GoFundMe for Brendyn and his family to help with travel, medical costs and other expenses. So far, about $7,600 was raised of the $100,000 goal on the page, as of Sept. 27. Find the fundraiser here: https://gofund.me/370f3ce7. Contact Alex Garner at 224-374-2332 or agarner@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter at @alexx_garner. This article originally appeared on Sheboygan Press: Plymouth boy lost hand in lawnmowing accident, GoFundMe raising funds GOP candidates at debate refuse to pick a challenger to vote off the island GOP hopefuls at the second primary debate Wednesday night all declined a Survivor themed question intended to end the night, balking at the idea of picking a candidate to vote off the island. Fox News moderator Dana Perino said it was clear that former President Trump would win the primary race if nobody dropped out, so she asked who should be the first candidate to go. Perino instructed the candidates to use their provided whiteboards to write a name but they werent interested. Are you serious? former U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley said, surprised by the question. Ill decline to do that, with all due respect, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis followed. I think that thats disrespectful to my fellow competitors. South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott also declined. Only conservative entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy showed any interest in answering the initial prompt. But, sensing pushback, the moderator pivoted to questioning the candidates on how they plan to defeat Trump, given his lead. The faltering question, interrupted multiple times by audience laughter, was representative of what was considered a chaotic night for all involved. The debate was filled with personal attacks and candidates talking over each other so much that moderators at one point threatened to turn off North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgums microphone. Nevertheless, Haley has been considered the best off after her performance, though Trump still holds a significant lead over all the candidates in primary polling. Trump adviser Chris LaCivita called the event boring and inconsequential in a statement at the end of the evening. According to national polling averages, the former president holds about 54 percent support in the GOP primary, with DeSantis trailing with 14 percent and Haley in third with about 6 percent support. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The subject of labor unions and picket lines led off the second GOP primary debate Wednesday night in California, just a day after President Biden set a new precedent by joining striking auto workers in Michigan. The first candidate to speak, Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), walked back his incendiary comment from earlier this month If you strike, youre fired which he said on the campaign trail in reference to the United Auto Workers (UAW) strike thats currently underway in Detroit. Obviously, the president of the United States cannot fire anybody in the private sector, Scott qualified Wednesday night. But Scott remained critical of unions. Joe Biden should not be on the picket line, he said. The National Labor Relations Board, which administers U.S. labor law, is now investigating a charge against Scott filed by UAW President Shawn Fain in response to Scotts comment. As unions are seeing a resurgence in popularity among Americans, even as union membership has fallen to all-time lows, other GOP candidates were quick to sound sympathetic to the plight of workers dealing with elevated prices over the past two years and skyrocketing wealth inequality over the past several decades. I do have a lot of sympathy for the workers. People are going through real hardship in this country, businessperson and GOP candidate Vivek Ramaswamy said. His sympathy did not extend as far as union bosses, with whom Ramaswamy said he did not have a lot of patience. Former Vice President Mike Pence also took a shot at union bosses, while former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, who has referred to herself as a union buster in the past, talked about Bidens appearance on picket lines in Michigan. Haley called for more tax breaks for businesses, many of which are set to expire in 2025; extending the business tax breaks in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is arguably the top economic priority for Republicans in Congress. In that piece of legislation, the GOP canceled the tax deductibility of union dues, hammering home the partys long-established anti-union stance. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Flash This photo taken with a mobile phone on Sept. 27, 2023 shows civil defense and security force members working at the fire site in the town of al-Hamdaniya in Iraq's northern province of Nineveh. [Photo/Xinhua] A huge fire at a wedding party ripped through a large hall in a predominantly Christian town in Iraq's northern province of Nineveh, killing 114 people and injuring more than 200, Governor of Nineveh province Najm al-Jubouri told reporters on Wednesday. The fire broke out on Tuesday night in the al-Haytham Wedding Hall in the town of al-Hamdaniya, 35 km southeast of the provincial capital Mosul. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani announced a three-day mourning for the victims of the tragic incident and ordered to form an investigation committee to determine its causes, according to a statement on Wednesday morning by Sudani's media office. Iraqi Interior Minister Abdul Amir al-Shammari, who rushed to the scene after midnight, told the official Iraqi News Agency (INA) that the fire was caused by fireworks inside the hall, which caused the ceiling to burn and collapse quickly, adding that the wedding hall lacks safety measures. Video clips spreading on social media showed that during the wedding, a ring of pyrotechnics machines on the floor started to shoot sparks up into the air, igniting the decorated ceiling above and the flames quickly spreading all over. The building was covered with highly flammable materials, which accelerated the fire that led to the collapse of part of the building, the INA said. Saad Maan, head of the interior ministry's media office, said in a press release that "there are no indications of criminal intent in the al-Hamdaniya fire," adding that nine people had been arrested in connection with the deadly incident. Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid stressed in a statement the need to open an investigation, find out the circumstances of the accident, and take all safety measures to prevent its recurrence. Observers believe that Iraq's building safety standards are often ignored, and with Iraq's infrastructure deteriorating over the decades of conflict, fatal fire incidents are often seen in the country. In 2021, Iraq saw two huge fires, one broke out on April 25 in a hospital treating coronavirus patients in Baghdad, killing 82 people and injuring about 110 others; the other on July 13 in a hospital in the southern province of Dhi Qar, killing 92 people and wounding dozens. (The Hill) Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) sent a message to former President Trump during the second GOP presidential primary debate on Wednesday night, calling the frontrunner out for his absence from the stage once again. I want to look at the camera right now and tell you, Donald, I know youre watching. You cant help yourself. I know youre watching, okay? And youre not here tonight not because of polls and not because of your indictments. Youre not here tonight because youre afraid of being on this stage and defending your record, Christie said from his podium on the Simi Valley, Calif., stage. Youre ducking these things. And let me tell you whats going to happen, you keep doing that, no one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore, were gonna call you Donald Duck,' Christie said. Trump, who boasts a significant lead over the rest of the GOP presidential field in multiple national polls over recent months, skipped the partys first presidential debate in Milwaukee last month and instead shared an interview with Tucker Carlson as counter-programming. He also passed on the second event in Southern California on Wednesday, opting instead to give remarks in Michigan. Trump has cited his frontrunner status as a reason for not joining his fellow White House contenders in California. Trump is also campaigning in the face of a myriad of legal troubles including four criminal indictments. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis also called out Trump for his absence during the closely watched RNC event. Donald Trump is missing in action. He should be on this stage tonight, DeSantis said For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Lets hope you didnt sneeze during the first segment of the Republican president debate Wednesday night. If so, you might have missed the entire segment on one of the nations most urgent issues. Tens of thousands of people are overwhelming the southern border, far beyond any capacity to deal with it. Even Democrats who have advocated generous sanctuary policies are realizing that it cant go on. President Joe Biden, for reasons only he could explain, just encourages more of it, granting nearly half a million Venezuelans work permits. You might think Republican voters, who have always prioritized the issue and do so even more now, deserved a detailed segment on it. Fox News gave it about 4 minutes. Only two candidates, Chris Christie and Nikki Haley, had a chance to offer comprehensive answers. Both did well. Christie parried the premise of the question, that he should support a path to citizenship now as he did years ago. He argued that the current situation is an urgent crisis that demands a tough approach. And he effectively pivoted to a fact that cant get lost while we have an illegal immigration nightmare, we still need a sensible way to import workers. Haleys answer was strong, too, as she pledged to crack down on the border with new Border Patrol and immigration enforcement agents and a return to Donald Trumps Remain in Mexico policy. But Vivek Ramaswamy? He got an appropriate question about his ridiculous idea to revoke citizenship for the children of illegal immigrants born here, but that was it. Tim Scott? He dismissed Ramaswamys idea but pivoted to an attack based on his rivals business issue. Ron DeSantis? We have no idea what hed do on immigration, but he got to unleash a tirade about China thanks to an oddly worded question about that countrys outreach to Latin America. Mike Pence? Doug Burgum? Who knows. Apparently it was already time to move on. Unchecked illegal immigration will redefine Americans sense of the entire countrys well-being. Haley understands this she deftly connected the shocking looting by hundreds of teenagers in Philadelphia on Tuesday night to the issue. Its not that the looters were immigrants; its that Americans are watching order break down live on their television. And voters will do whatever it takes to restore order. If liberals insist that only fascists will enforce borders, then voters will hire fascists to do the job liberals refuse to do, conservative commentator David Frum wrote. While thats an unfair shot at people who advocate toughness on immigration, it drives home the point this is an issue that, whatever voters think in the abstract, will cause them to vote for a solution. So, it might have been worth giving them a good long look at the candidates who might provide one. Do you have an opinion on this topic? Tell us! We love to hear from Texans with opinions on the news and to publish those views in the Opinion section. Letters should be no more than 150 words. Writers should submit letters only once every 30 days. Include your name, address (including city of residence), phone number and email address, so we can contact you if we have questions. You can submit a letter to the editor two ways: Email letters@star-telegram.com (preferred). Fill out this online form. Please note: Letters will be edited for style and clarity. Publication is not guaranteed. The best letters are focused on one topic. Republican presidential candidates spent two hours on live television late on Wednesday hurling insults and shouting at each other often through switched-off microphones at a presidential debate that was most notable for the continued absence of the candidate who currently leads the field, former president Donald Trump. The seven-person field, consisting of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, ex-South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, and former Vice President Mike Pence, took to the stage for a 120-minute session hosted by Fox Business Network and Univision, roughly a month after the first primary debate in Milwaukee. Mr Trump, who most polling shows to have a commanding lead over the entire field, skipped the televised session to deliver prepared remarks to a group of non-union auto workers in Michigan. Unlike the first debate, at which most candidates other than Mr Christie and ex-Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson took pains not to criticise the ex-president, Mr Trumps absence drew at least some pushback from his next-closest rival, Mr DeSantis, and Mr Christie, who has built his long-shot candidacy around attacking the quadruply-indicted ex-president. The ex-New Jersey governor drew a combination of laughs and groans early on in the session when he attempted to tag the ex-president with a familiar nickname while pivoting from a question about handling rising crime rates. Donald, I know youre watching. You cant help yourself, he said, while looking directly into the camera as if he was addressing Mr Trump. Youre not here tonight not because of polls and not because of your indictments. Youre not here tonight because youre afraid of being on this stage and defending your record. Youre ducking these things and let me tell you whats going to happen: If you keep doing that, no one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore. Theyre gonna call you Donald Duck, he added. Mr DeSantis, once a close ally of Mr Trump, took aim at the former president when he declared him missing in action early on in the debate, but his appetite for criticising the GOP frontrunner appeared to wane soon after. Instead of going after Mr Trump, the candidates chose to stick to shouting and interrupting each other and the moderators while trading insults over various issues, including their alleged ties to or softness on China. Mr Ramaswamy, who has gained support in recent polls after the last debate, was the target for numerous attacks from Ms Haley, who slammed the political neophyte for his recent decision to open an account on TikTok, the video-sharing app which most of the GOP field has avoided because of its Chinese parent company. Asked to explain the move, he replied: I have a radical idea for the Republican Party: We need to win elections. And part of how we win elections is reaching the next generation where they are were only going to ever get to declaring independence from China if we win. Ms Haley, who lambasted the newcomer for his Russia-friendly Ukraine policy at the Milwaukee debate, pounced. This is infuriating because TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media apps that we could have, she said. Honestly every time I hear you I feel a little bit dumber for what you say. The candidates also managed to draw groans with references to marital relations on the part of President Joe Biden and former vice president Mike Pence, both of whom are married to teachers. Mr Christie made the first bizarre reference in response to a question about his states standardised test scores among racial minorities, choosing to attack the public school system and public school teachers unions. This public school system is no longer run by the public. It is run by the teachers unions in this country ... and when you have the President of the United States sleeping with a member of the teachers union there is no chance that you could take the stranglehold away from the teachers union, he said, making a crude reference to First Lady Jill Biden, who is an English professor at a Washington, DC area community college. While the attack on Ms Biden appeared quickly forgotten, the topic was revived a short time later by Mr Pence, who decided to speak about his relationship with an educator. My wife is not a member of the teachers union, but I got to admit, I have been sleeping with a teacher for 38 years, he said. After a moment of shocked silence from both the audience and the rest of the field, Fox Business Network anchor Stuart Varney interjected to declare: Next subject! Though Mr Trump didnt attend the debate and doesnt appear inclined to attend any future sessions, his campaign appeared to be actively monitoring the proceedings. In a statement, Trump campaign adviser Chris LaCivita said the programme was as boring and inconsequential as the first debate with nothing ... said [that] will change the dynamics of the primary contest being dominated by President Trump. The RNC should immediately put an end to any further primary debates so we can train our fire on Crooked Joe Biden and quit wasting time and money that could be going to evicting Biden from the White House, he said. But the Super PAC supporting Mr DeSantis campaign, Never Back Down, appeared to have a different take, with CEO Chris Jankowski declaring the Florida governor the winner of the Wednesday evening clash. America is at a crossroads with a choice between a future of freedom or repeating the same mistakes of the past, and Gov. DeSantis showed tonight what inspired, principled, competent, and steadfast leadership is and people respond to leadership, he said. Republican presidential candidates, from left, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum , former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie , former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis , entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy , Sen. Tim Scott , R-S.C., and former Vice President Mike Pence , before the start of a Republican presidential primary debate hosted by FOX Business Network and Univision, Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif. | Mark J. Terrill, Associated Press As Republican presidential candidates gathered Wednesday evening at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, one was noticeably absent: Donald Trump . The former president, who maintains massive leads in national polls, chose to skip the debate and instead travel to Detroit, where United Auto Workers strikes are in their second week. While most of Trumps challengers were hesitant to criticize him in the first debate, his absence became a theme of Wednesdays debate. Candidates transitioned from an early discussion of the U.S. economy into a critique of Trump, whose administration added over $7 trillion dollars to the national debt during its four years. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who was the most willing of candidates at the first debate to critique Trump, led the charge. (Trump) put us habitually in debt, he said. He should be in this room to answer those questions to the people. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis agreed. After taking a shot at President Joe Biden , who he says is missing in action during the countrys economic crisis, he put Trump in the crosshairs. You know who else is missing in action? DeSantis said. Donald Trump is missing in action. He should be on this stage tonight. At the first debate, held last month in Milwaukee, eight candidates participated. Trump skipped the debate and aired an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson. Seven candidates participated in Wednesdays debate: DeSantis, Christie, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, former Vice President Mike Pence, former U.N. ambassador and South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, Sen. Tim Scott and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum. Moderators included Univisions Ilia Calderon, Fox News Dana Perino and Fox Business Stuart Varney. Republican presidential candidates debate during at an event hosted by FOX Business Network and Univision, Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif. | Mark J. Terrill, Associated Press Candidates chime in on the economy, government shutdown The moderators opened the debate by citing a recent Pew Research survey, showing that most Americans consider politics to be exhausting. They then pointed to inflation and the ongoing UAW strikes in Detroit where Biden visited Tuesday and Trump on Wednesday. They mentioned Bidens visit but not Trumps. Ramaswamy, a son of Indian immigrants, pointed to his parents struggles in working multiple jobs. I dont have a lot of patience for the union bosses, he said. I do have sympathy for the workers. Hardship is not a choice. But victimhood is a choice, he continued. Haley said cutting taxes like eliminating the gas and diesel tax is the best path to helping Americans. The average U.S. family, she said, is paying $7,000 more annually in household costs. She blamed Congress for barreling toward a government shutdown, calling on them to pass a balanced budget. If they dont keep the government open, they should not get paid, she said. Christie, too, blasted Congress. Voters should blame everyone in Washington, D.C., he said. They get sent down there to do their job and theyve been failing at doing their job for a very long time. Pence said he is running, in part, to stabilize the economy. Joe Biden doesnt belong on the picket line. He belongs on the unemployment line, he said. On immigration, a country of laws Scott pulled the conversation from the economy to immigration, saying Biden should not be on the picket line, but on the southern border. Christie was asked why he supported a path to citizenship in 2010 while governor of New Jersey, but supported mass deportations in 2016 while running for president. He said the countrys immigration situation is different now, calling for an enforcement-first approach that would send the National Guard to the border We want you here in this country to fill the 6 million vacant jobs we have, but only if you come here to follow the law, and only if you come here legally, Christie said. He knocked Trump for pledging he would build a border wall, and not finishing it during his administration. Haley called for being a country of laws, saying we must secure both the southern border and the northern border. Calderon asked Ramaswamy about his policy proposal to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants, an argument that many legal scholars have deemed unconstitutional. Ramaswamy said if a foreign diplomats child, born in the U.S., is not offered citizenship, neither should the child of an undocumented immigrant. Now, the left will howl about the Constitution and the 14th Amendment, he said. The difference between me and them is Ive read the 14th Amendment. Scott, the lone Black candidate on stage, opposed Ramaswamys proposal, saying hed leave it to the Supreme Court to determine its legitimacy. But he noted that the 14th Amendment was written in response to slavery, not illegal immigration. So the challenge that we face is whether or not people that come here are under the jurisdiction of our laws, Scott said. And frankly, if you come here illegally, you are not. On education, candidates denounce indoctrination Several candidates called for universal school choice and dissolving the U.S. Department of Education. Haley called for moving all federal programs to the state level, letting states decide what education looks like in their states. Weve got to quit spending time on this DEI and CRT, and instead focus on financial literacy, digital literacy and on making sure that our kids know what they need to do to have the jobs of the next generation, Haley said. A tense moment came when Calderon asked DeSantis about new public school standards in his state, in which social studies curriculum teaches that slaves developed skills which, in some instances, could be applied for their personal benefit. DeSantis has defended the curriculum, saying enslaved people developed skills in spite of slavery, not because of slavery. DeSantis called the controversy a hoax, then called for universal school choice and the end of indoctrination. Scott fired back at DeSantis. There is not a redeeming quality in slavery, he said. Businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, left, argues a point with Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C.,during a Republican presidential primary debate hosted by FOX Business Network and Univision, Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif. | Mark J. Terrill, Associated Press Ramaswamy knocked on China, Ukraine At the first debate, with the front-runner absent, Ramaswamy faced the brunt of on-stage attacks from his fellow candidates, especially for his views regarding Ukraine. Much was the same Wednesday, with Haley, Scott and Christie getting into spats with the 38-year-old entrepreneur over Ukraine, TikTok and China. Ramaswamy has called for the U.S. to stop supporting Ukraine in its war with Russia, claiming that aid for Ukraine is driving Russia further into Chinas arms. Chinas the real enemy, Ramaswamy said. Haley, the former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, slammed Ramaswamy on this as she did in the first debate. Every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber, Haley said, claiming that his opposition to Ukraine is effectual support for China. A win for Russia is a win for China, she said. Ramaswamy has faced criticism in recent days for doing business with a CCP-backed firm. Scott sparred with Ramaswamy on Ukraine, too. Scott a sitting U.S. senator has voted to approve all of the U.S. military aid, to date, to Ukraine, and he emphasized that 90% was sent as a loan. A Trump supporter says America first to Ukranian supporters before the second Republican presidential debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif., on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. | Sarah Reingewirtz, The Orange County Register via AP Candidates arrived to the Reagan Library around midday Wednesday. Several of them went to pay their respects at the Memorial Site, just west of the library where former President Ronald Reagan and first lady Nancy Reagan are buried. In the hours leading up to the debate, groups of demonstrators gathered at the head of Presidential Drive, the road leading to the Reagan Library. On one corner, people wore MAGA hats and waved Trump 2024 flags; on another corner, a giant Ukrainian flag was held by people wearing blue and yellow; and across the street, a group of pro-immigrant demonstrators chanted Somos humanos (We are humans). A plane circled the complex, towing a banner that read, GOP 2024: A Race For The Extreme MAGA Vote. Related Dozens of teens stormed House Speaker Kevin McCarthy s office Thursday morning, urging him to come to an agreement with congressional Republicans to stave off a partial shutdown of the federal government. Over two dozen young people affiliated with the Sunrise Movement, a youth climate justice group, occupied the speakers office around 11 a.m. carrying signs that said The GOP hates Gen Z and Climate action not shutdowns. Some of the teens were arrested, one of the protests organizers told USA TODAY. Brianna Burch, a spokesperson for the U.S. Capitol Police, confirmed in an email that 18 people were arrested Thursday morning in the Rayburn House Office Building after refusing to stop illegally demonstrating. We are demanding that Kevin McCarthy and the GOP not move forward with the government shutdown because the climate crisis is actively raging outside of our windows, Adah Crandall, a 17-year-old organizer from Portland, Oregon, told USA TODAY. "The GOP has blood on its hands." Dozens of teens occupied House Speaker Kevin McCarthy's office on Thursday as he scrambled to negotiate to stave off a federal government shutdown. A government shutdown, the teens said, could have drastic effects on parts of the country prone to natural disasters. The Federal Emergency Management Administration has already started rationing relief funds. A shutdown, which is only looking increasingly likely as McCarthy struggles to negotiate with the right flank of his conference, would also pause federal flood insurance relief not to mention the federal safety-net benefits that would disappear for millions of Americans, including those in regions of the U.S. that have been most affected by climate change. More: Updates on the impending government shutdown: How does it affect you? Everything to know. Shutting down the government is exactly the opposite of what we need to be doing, Crandall said. The speakers office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Zachary Schermele is a breaking news and education reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach him by email at zschermele@usatoday.com. Follow him on X at @ZachSchermele. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Kevin Mccarthy office stormed by teens protesting government shutdown A trio of GOP House members sent a letter to Ford leadership Wednesday, questioning the company over a decision to partner with a Chinese battery manufacturer on a new plant in Michigan and threatening to subpoena its CEO. Ford paused work on the battery plant this week, but the lawmakers said the automaker has not cooperated with their requests for documents about the decision or how it attempts to focus on domestic production. While we are encouraged to see Ford take a small first step in reevaluating its deal with [Contemporary Amperex Technology], we are concerned that Ford has not been fully transparent with our requests for documents and information, the lawmakers said in the letter, first reported by Reuters. The letter is signed by GOP Reps. Jason Smith (Mo.), Mike Gallagher (Wis.) and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (Wash.). All three chair committees that have requested documents about the battery plant deal. The $3.5 billion battery plant was a partnership with the Chinese firm Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL), which the lawmakers allege is linked to forced labor in Chinas Xinjiang province as well as holds significant ties to the countrys government. The same lawmakers sent a letter to Ford in July outlining the concerns, but they said those concerns were never properly addressed. The company did not provide documents in response to that July letter, and it did the same for a second and third request in August and earlier this month, the lawmakers said. Fords ongoing refusal to provide substantive responses addressing the serious issues discussed in the April, July, and September letters undermines Fords own commitment to act with transparency, integrity, and honesty and raises serious concerns regarding its licensing agreement with CATL, the letter reads. We write again today to seek a fully responsive production on the licensing agreement, Fords knowledge of CATLs apparent attempt to shield its connection to Xinjiang-based companies, and Fords commitment to advance U.S. battery production. The lawmakers gave Ford an Oct. 6 deadline to provide documents, threatening that CEO Jim Farley could be subpoenaed if the company does not disclose the information. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library site of Wednesday nights second GOP presidential primary was an apropos place for the Republican Partys soul to leave its body. It was about time, if were being honest. And it happened early, as biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, two people who will never be president, began bickering and babbling over each other while Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis tried, and failed, to scold them for not talking about issues. Like the party they represent, that moment and much of the debate that followed was chaotic, unintelligible, irrelevant and frustrating. The stage was clearly the kids table, filled with a noisy collection of also-rans spouting hackneyed right-wing nonsense DEATH PENALTY! BORDER WALL! BURN COAL! with no real policy prescriptions. GOP debate also-rans prattle on as Trump stays away, also prattling on Making the moment more tragic, the candidate leading the pack by about 40 points skipped the debate to give a rambling speech in the Detroit area that would put any sane voter to sleep. Oh, and that leading candidate, former President Donald Trump, is facing 91 state and federal charges and was just found liable on business fraud in New York this week. RIP GOP. Dont worry, youll have time to shut the government down before you ascend. The totality of Wednesday nights display sparks a simple question: Is this really the best one of Americas two main political parties can offer? The answer appears to be yes, though if I were a member of that party, Id demand better. Bad week for Republicans: The GOP gives America a debate, an impeachment hearing and a government shutdown. Oh my. Trump makes show of UAW support ... by speaking at non-union plant Trump, in keeping with his penchant for dishonesty, was in the Detroit area ostensibly to show support for striking United Auto Workers union members. But his speech was at a non-union plant in the suburbs in front of several hundred people who were invited. NBC News reported that few striking workers were there, with one former autoworker saying, I dont know where theyre at. But there are several a handful. It didnt matter much. Trump prattled on about his various legal woes: I never heard of the word 'indictment,' now I get indicted like every other day. (Humble brag.) Former President Donald Trump speaks at Drake Enterprise in Clinton Township on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. He talked generically about the president being the worst president in the history of the planet, saying Joe Bidens surrounded with radical left Marxists and crazy people, fascists. Bad people. (Sounds bad.) Trump referenced Barack Hussein Obama. (No longer president.) And he expressed concerns about boats with electric motors, asking, Do you get electrocuted if the boat sinks? (No, you dont.) Why can't Republicans do better than Trump? GOP debate had no answers. Over at the debate, which started while Trump was still woe-is-me-ing, the candidates were busily failing to convince anyone they have what it takes to overtake Trumps bizarrely commanding lead. Former Vice President Mike Pence said hell repeal the Green New Deal, which was never passed in the first place. DeSantis continued giving social media users a chance to make his forced, awkward smiles into viral GIFs. The lot of them hammered away cruelly at transgender youth and adults, dehumanizing them. Can Swifties swing an election? Taylor Swift has power to swing the presidential election. What if nothing else matters? GOP candidates at the debate should be dominating Trump, but no Their main opponent is a guy sitting atop a veritable mountain of alleged illegality, and except for a few barbs here and there, the best they can muster is loose bickering, lame insults and rehashed tough-on-immigration, tough-on-crime, back-the-blue lines. This group of seven candidates particularly someone like Nikki Haley, a former South Carolina governor who's also a former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, the only one grounded in some form of reality should be grinding Trump into hamburger. He has weakness upon weakness, and he is, as his "union" speech reminded us, a raving nut ball. 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. But no. Youve got the madman and a coalition of cowards, and that fact was on vivid displayed Wednesday night. The GOP is no longer a political party. Its a loud, obnoxious mess, buoying a dangerous authoritarian figure who will soon be facing trials in multiple jurisdictions. Reagan would smartly and undoubtedly avert his eyes. USA TODAY Opinion columnist Rex Huppke. Follow USA TODAY columnist Rex Huppke on X, formerly Twitter, @RexHuppke and Facebook facebook.com/RexIsAJerk 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: Why can't Republicans do better than Trump? GOP debate had no answers Dave McCormick struck an old "Issues" page from his website, including a section on abortion. He's mounting a second Senate bid in Pennsylvania as the GOP mulls a shift in abortion messaging. But a McCormick spokeswoman argued that his position on the issue has not changed. As Dave McCormick mounts a second campaign for the GOP nomination for Senate in Pennsylvania, he has removed an old "Issues" page from his website that touted his "staunchly pro-life" bona fides. "Dave is staunchly pro-life and believes that life begins at conception," read the old "Issues" pages, according to the Internet Archive. "Dave has attended the March for Life rally in Washington, DC and will continue to advocate for the rights of the unborn." McCormick, the former CEO of Bridgewater Associates, is mounting a second campaign with the backing of party leaders after losing the primary to Trump-backed candidate Mehmet Oz in 2022. He would face Democrat Sen. Bob Casey in the general election. In a statement to Insider, campaign spokeswoman Elizabeth Gregory argued that McCormick's position hasn't changed. "As Dave has said numerous times last cycle and more recently, he is pro-life and supports exceptions in the cases of rape, incest, and saving the life of the mother," said Gregory. "Meanwhile, Bob Casey has repeatedly voted to allow abortion up until the moment of birth, an extreme position that is totally out of touch with the people of Pennsylvania." Casey, who has long described himself as "pro-life," notably voted to advance the Women's Health Protection Act last year, a Democratic-backed bill that provides essentially no restrictions on abortion, arguing that the "circumstances around the entire debate on abortion have changed" in the wake of the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade. Senator Bob Casey (@SenBobCasey) May 10, 2022 Gregory also provided audio from a campaign event in February 2022 where McCormick said he supported those three exceptions. "I do accept three exceptions... rape, incest, and the life of the mother," McCormick told attendees, according to the audio. "That's the same position Ronald Reagan had, that's the same position Donald Trump has." Gregory also argued that the website change had nothing to do with the abortion issue in particular. "As you'll see when looking at the website, it's entirely redone from last cycle and to somehow conclude that this has to do with one issue would be ridiculous," said Gregory. Pressed on whether McCormick's website may include messaging on abortion in the future, Gregory argued that the campaign has "been extremely transparent in communicating Dave's consistent stance on this issue." A broader shift in abortion messaging McCormick is launching his second campaign as party leaders and strategists mull a shift in messaging on abortion. Republicans underperformed expectations during the 2022 midterm elections, and many in the party have acknowledged that the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade spurred higher turnout among Democratic and moderate voters. As NBC News reported earlier this month, top party strategists told Republican senators during a closed-door meeting that voters are reacting negatively to the term "pro-life." "What intrigued me the most about the results was that 'pro-choice' and 'pro-life' means something different now," Republican Sen. Kevin Cramer of North Dakota told the outlet after the meeting. "People see being pro-life as being against all abortions." NBC also reported that Senate Republicans' campaign arm which spent months courting McCormick to run is "encouraging Republicans to clearly state their opposition to a national abortion ban" while pressing for "reasonable limits on late-term abortions" and exceptions for rape, incest and life of the mother. But that broader shift could make things awkward for McCormick, given that he attacked Mehmet Oz for being insufficiently opposed to abortion during the 2022 GOP primary. And during an April 2022 Senate debate, McCormick only named the "life of the mother" as an acceptable exception to an abortion ban without mentioning rape or incest. "I believe in the very rare instances there should be exceptions for the life of the mother," McCormick said at the time. Democrats have since seized upon those public comments to argue that McCormick is now misrepresenting his true beliefs. "Last year, David McCormick stood on a debate stage and told tens of thousands of Pennsylvania voters that he doesn't support exceptions for rape or incest," said Maddy McDaniel, senior communications adviser to the Pennsylvania Democratic Party, in a statement to Insider. "It's too late to try to lie about it now Pennsylvanians know the truth about his extreme views on abortion." Read the original article on Business Insider The Republican impeachment inquiry into President Biden got off to a rocky start Thursday as the GOP sought to stress a need for the investigation while Democrats argued they had done little to advance the specter of wrongdoing by the man they aim to remove from office. Republicans sought to draw attention to evidence as sprawling as the probe itself, bouncing back and forth between reviewing Hunter Biden s business dealings, communications with family members and associates, and the ongoing Justice Department investigation into his failure to pay taxes. Still, the bulk of what they reviewed dealt only with Hunter Biden, not his father, even as House Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) said our investigation is now focused on whether President Biden engaged in impeachable offenses under the U.S. Constitution. Comer wrapped the hearing saying the panel would issue a subpoena for Hunter Bidens personal bank records as well as those of his companies. Democrats vacillated between drawing attention to the looming government shutdown passing an iPad with a countdown clock from member to member and what they deem holes in connecting any wrongdoing to President Biden. Republicans star witnesses not always a help for GOP Even as Republicans sought to convince the public of the need for an inquiry, GOP-invited witnesses at turns undercut their message, saying there was not currently enough evidence to back an impeachment resolution. Jonathan Turley, a go-to witness for conservatives in Congress, at one point told lawmakers that some of the details theyd gathered really do gravitate in favor of the president. I do not believe that the current evidence would support articles of impeachment, Turley said. At another point, when asked to weigh in on GOP claims that Hunter Biden was engaged in influence peddling, Turley said Congress has failed to do needed work to connect it to President Biden. The key here that the committee has to drill down on is whether they can establish a linkage with the influence peddling, which is a form of corruption, and the President whether he had knowledge, whether he participated, whether he encouraged it. We simply dont know, and we dont even know if this was an illusion or not. But you cant find the answers to that, Turley said. But without that type of nexus, then no, I dont, he added in response to whether he would back a vote to impeach President Biden. Bruce Dubinsky, a forensic accountant also invited to testify by the GOP, said the party had not yet laid out enough evidence to even suggest there is wrongdoing. I am not here today to even suggest that there was corruption, fraud, or any wrongdoing. In my opinion, more information needs to be gathered and assessed before I would make such an assessment, he said in his opening statement. Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.) later repeated some of Turleys comments in his own line of questioning. Boy, thats awkward, he said. As a former director of Emergency Management, I know a disaster when I see one. Republicans lay out their goals but say theyve got the goods The GOP offered an inconsistent message about the status of their investigation, at some turns suggesting they have gathered significant evidence that shows Biden family corruption while at others saying they had launched the investigation in order to determine whether there was any wrongdoing. In his opening remarks, Comer suggested they already have such evidence, saying the committee will examine over two dozen pieces of evidence revealing Joe Bidens corruption and abuse of public office. But he later hedged that, saying he has no predetermined conclusions. The title of this hearing is an impeachment inquiry. I think that Mr. Turley has done a good job explaining the basis for why we need to take the impeachment inquiry and go forward. We have led this investigation and now we need the inquiry status as we move forward to get the information, Comer said, adding they will need information from the Biden family. Rep. Pat Fallon (R-Texas) pushed back on Democrats claims they have no direct evidence linking Hunter Bidens business to his father, pointing to photos of the president at dinners with associates of his son. Here is the pattern. You have crooked foreigners who deliver pallets of cash to the Bidens and they have dinner with Joe, and apparently Joe Biden is an expensive dinner date, and if that is not selling political access, I dont know what is, he said. But other Republicans cast the evidence theyve gathered as a rationale for continuing their search rather than proof of wrongdoing. Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) flashed a series of texts from different Biden family members, asking witnesses if those were worth looking into further. Do you think this text message would lead this committee to get further information about the business dealings of Hunter Biden and how that links to Jim Biden the presidents brother? he asked, noting the text presumably referred to the need to protect President Biden. He flashed another text showing Hunter Bidens daughter Naomi Biden texting her father and making a comment about how she would not ask for half of his salary like pop. Would you be looking for information related to money going from son to father, Donalds asked. Democrats were dismissive of Republicans who said the inquiry was a jumping off point for gathering more evidence that would answer the questions theyve laid out. Many of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle in this hearing have questions, but questions are not the basis for an impeachment. Evidence is, Rep. Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.) said. Democrats say its an impeachment hearing about nothing Democrats on the panel largely used their time to showcase the gaps in connecting activities of the two Bidens. Ranking member Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) at one point quipped the hearing was like a Seinfeld episode, calling it an impeachment hearing about nothing. If Republicans had a smoking gun or even a dripping water pistol, they would be presenting it today. Theyve got nothing on President Joe Biden. All they can do is return to the thoroughly demolished lie that Rudy Giuliani and Donald Trump launched five years ago. The Burisma conspiracy theory, a fairytale so preposterous that one of the main authors, Lev Parnas, has now disowned and repudiated it, Raskin said, nodding to a former associate of Giuliani, the former New York City mayor and lawyer to Trump. Most argued Republicans couldnt meet the standard for high crimes and misdemeanors required for impeachment, saying they were unable to tie the president to their complaints about his son. I hear a lot about the Biden family. This is an impeachment inquiry about President Biden. I would try to discern what the allegations are for the president because they are nonexistent at this point, Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-Mass.) said. Michael Gerhardt, a Democratic witness who has addressed Congress multiple times on impeachment, said Republicans focus on Hunter Biden would not help make their case. The problem is that the dots are not connected. The name thats been repeated most often in this hearing is Hunter Biden, not President Biden. And the point of an impeachment inquiry is not about a presidents son, it has to be about the president himself. And I dont think those dots have been connected. There have been lots of assumptions, lots of accusations, but not evidence, he said. Several Democrats argued the Republicans goal was to drag down Biden to dilute focus as Trump faces four ongoing criminal prosecutions. In the case of President Joe Biden, [Republicans] decided to start the impeaching now and figure out the whole evidence thing later, and you still havent figured it out, Rep. Greg Casar (D-Texas) said. This inquiry is a cynical attempt to tar everyone, to make everyone look suspect, to make everyone look corrupt, so that voters just give up and say, Theres not much difference here. And Moskowitz said Republicans efforts to launch a legitimate inquiry were undercut by Republicans who raced to file numerous impeachment inquiries at the start of the new Congress. Every single member, many on this committee, pre-judging their filing articles Theyre all one upping each other in the Donald Trump friend Olympics trying to get invited to the sleepover at Mar-a-Lago. I filed articles of impeachment against Merrick Garland. No, I filed articles of impeachment against Kamala Harris. It is ridiculous, he said. Republicans refuse to call in Rudy Giuliani Republicans on the panel twice quashed efforts by Democrats to bring in Rudy Giuliani and in one case an associate who worked alongside him as he traveled to Ukraine to further allegations that Biden improperly intervened to oust a Ukrainian prosecutor to benefit his son. Raskin first made the motion, calling Giuliani and his associate Lev Parnas the origins of the lie on which this sham impeachment is based and who worked to spread it. It was Giuliani who sought to raise allegations that Biden sought to force out a Ukrainian prosecutor to benefit his son despite backing from the international community and the State Department that the prosecutor should be removed due to a failure to address corruption. When I walked into this hearing room, my first question was, where is Rudy Giuliani? Lynch said. This is supposed to be an inquiry on the facts against the president for potentially articles of impeachment. The one person, the one person, who was an agent of President Trump [who] was sent to Ukraine to dig up some dirt, find some dirt on Joe Biden We do not have him here. We are not allowed to ask him questions. Both motions to bring Giuliani before the panel were blocked by subsequent motions from Republicans. At one point, Rep. Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.) held up a sign asking Where is Rudy? This committee is afraid to bring him before us and put him on the record. Shame! he said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Flash Company representatives from China and Hungary sign the agreements during the Hungary-China Business Meeting and Signing Ceremony in Budapest, Hungary on June 9, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua] China and the European Union (EU) are partners, not rivals, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Wednesday. The development of manufacturing industry depends on fair competition, not protectionism, he said while speaking by phone with Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said he hopes that the Hungarian side will continue to push the EU to adopt a more positive and open cooperation policy towards China, work with China to practice genuine multilateralism, safeguard the UN-centered international system, and promote the sound and steady development of China-EU relations. For his part, Szijjarto said the Hungarian side strongly opposes decoupling from China. Hungary hopes that the EU and China could cooperate closely, and does not support the EU taking any measures that are not conducive to fair competition and cooperation, Szijjarto said. The Hungarian side appreciates China's efforts in promoting peace in Europe and wishes that the Chinese side could continue to play an active role in this regard, he added. A government shutdown is looming, and the nation is waiting to see if lawmakers will pass approximately a dozen appropriations bills before the Oct. 1 budget deadline. Congressional leaders may pass a continuing resolution to keep the government operating under the current budget temporarily, giving lawmakers additional time to approve a budget for fiscal year 2024. In the event of a federal shutdown, how will it affect Mississippi? Here are some of the things that can or will happen during a shutdown. What will be affected? Federal food programs will stop operations, although the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program will continue through October. If the shutdown continues, funds will dry out. Additional food assistance for the Women, Infants and Children supplement will not be available after the shutdown. Nearly one-third of all households in Mississippi are eligible for SNAP benefits. Food safety agencies like the USDA will shut down or significantly reduce staffing. Farmers may not have access to federal services and loans, if needed, during harvest season, which could further affect food resources. Most parks and monuments operated by the National Parks Service will remain open, but visitors will not have access to services or facilities like restrooms and road maintenance, since the parks will be unstaffed, except for security and emergency services. More than 7 million people visit Mississippi's national parks each year, creating an economic impact of more than $610 million. Travel could be affected. While most Transportation Security Administration and Federal Aviation Administration employees will continue to work, some services will be limited during the shutdown. The workforce may dwindle as the shutdown continues, which could cause delays and service disruptions. Active-duty military will continue working, but civilian personnel will be furloughed. Federal courts will continue to operate until funds run out, but many nonessential employees will be furloughed. Agencies like NASA and the National Weather Service will shut down, but critical and emergency personnel will continue to work. Federal employees who work for agencies that are shut down will not receive pay, even if they are required to work. Mandatory employees, like those in the military, TSA and FAA, who work during the shutdown will not be paid during the shutdown but will receive back pay once the shutdown is over. In Mississippi, there are approximately 17,300 federal employees and more than 8,000 military personnel. USA TODAY Live: Status of a possible government shutdown and how it could affect your family What will not be affected? U.S. Postal Service: Operations will not be affected by a shutdown. The postal service operates as an independent agency funded by the sale of goods and services. Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid will not be affected because those agencies are funded through income taxes that are not part of the annual appropriations. National cemeteries there are five in Mississippi will not be affected. How will you be affected if there is a government shutdown? 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: How will government shutdown affect Mississippi Disaster recovery projects in Florida and other states could be affected by the looming federal government shutdown, the White House said Thursday. A news release from the White House said Florida could see 272 projects affected as the Federal Emergency Management Agency is forced to prioritize immediate lifesaving and life-sustaining operations. The list didnt detail all of the specific projects. WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS Wilson County School in Tennessee would continue being unable to push forward with rebuilding due to a deadly tornado that left 100 teachers and 1,000 students without classrooms, the release said. In New Jersey, millions of dollars meant to help rebuild a senior citizen building following Hurricane Ida would remain frozen. And in Florida, hundreds of millions of dollars of Hurricane Ian recovery obligations would continue to be delayed. Last week, Florida Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie said the state has about $500 million in the queue awaiting matching money from FEMA. Looking back: Hurricane Ian made landfall in Florida one year ago When we dont have those funds coming back in from the federal government, that hampers our recovery, Guthrie said. Thursday marked the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Ian making landfall in Southwest Florida before causing damage across the state. Saturday will be the one-month anniversary of Hurricane Idalia making landfall in Taylor County and crossing parts of North Florida. Read: A dozen dachshunds rescued by Brevard County shelter after owners death The White House news release said Louisiana has 222 projects that could be affected by a government shutdown, while New York has 214, Puerto Rico has 188 and Kentucky has 122. A shutdown is approaching as the House and Senate have been unable to agree on a spending package. Read: Penguin Trek: SeaWorld Orlando announces new family-friendly coaster Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. A potential federal shutdown is looming ahead of the deadline for Congress to agree on legislation for government funding. The budget must be passed by Saturday, Oct 1, to keep the government running. Otherwise, there will be a shutdown, which could impact people nationwide, including Charlotte. Make no mistake, a government shutdown would hurt our economy, it would risk our national security, and it would be a disaster for North Carolinas working families, Rep. Wiley Nickel of Cary said during a news conference Friday. Hundreds of thousands of people, including our congressional staff, would be put on temporary leave without pay or be forced to work without pay. RELATED: No budget, no pay: NC congressman wants to halt colleagues pay in future standoffs When would a government shutdown begin? If a government funding plan is not passed and signed into law by Oct 1, a shutdown will take effect at 12:01 a.m. and could last weeks, if not longer, the Associated Press reported. But local experts say a shutdown would likely gradually affect most people instead of an immediate impact, especially those living in Charlotte. If youre an employee of the federal government or youre working with an agency that gets contracts with the federal government, there could be a direct and immediate impact in that money is no longer flowing, Eric Heberlig, professor of political science at UNC Charlotte, told The Charlotte Observer. For the average citizen, most of their government services are coming through the city of Charlotte or, perhaps, the state of North Carolina, which eventually could be indirect effects if those governments arent getting their funding from the federal government. But in the short term, most people arent going to see an impact. What a government shutdown would mean for Charlotte During a shutdown, federal agencies have to stop all nonessential work and will not send paychecks. They dont have the money to pay their staff. That means they dont have the money to run their programs, so things temporarily shut down until Congress passes legal authorization for them to spend money, Heberlig explained. Its only certain functions of the government that are actually going to shut down. Until Congress agrees on government funding, federal employees will be furloughed, national parks will be closed, and some federal offices will have to close or reduce hours. This could delay small business loan applications and passport updates and hinder other federal services through programs impacted by the budget, Heberlig said. However, a shutdown would not affect United States Postal Service deliveries, Social Security benefits, Medicare, and Medicaid. There are several different types of effects. The most direct effect is if you are depending on some type of federal service thats through a program that is affected by the budget thats not passed, Heberlig explained. For the average person who doesnt get a check or a service directly from the federal government regularly. The effect is going to be the broader effects on the economy if this lasts for a while. On the local level, Mecklenburg County officials do not anticipate a federal government shutdown would immediately impact their programs and services. While many local programs and services receive federal funding and grants, much of that funding is already in place for this budget year, Alex Burnett, a public information officer for the county, told The Observer. There could potentially be a delay in reimbursement from federal grants, but that would not directly affect services. For Charlotte, most services and operations are not directly connected to federal funding, so city officials arent expecting an impact on those either. If city services are affected, the city will assess the impact and available resources and operate under the established Federal contingency plans as well as other strategies that may be implemented based on the community needs, Lawrence Corley III, the citys media relations manager, said. According to Corley, some local activities with city government connections will continue operating, including airport services from TSA screeners and Customs, air traffic controllers, and Border Protection agents. Housing grant programs would also continue until funding runs out. For most of us, all our ordinarily everyday activities are going to be able to continue as they normally do, Heberlig said. The local libraries will still be open, your trash will still be picked up, and the local police will still be able to respond to calls. Those are all local government functions that may get some downstream financial support from the federal government, but theyre not dependent on a check every day from the federal government. WASHINGTON (Nexstar) Despite the fact that the Senate just advanced a measure to fund the government through November, a government shutdown is set to begin Sunday. Speaker McCarthy is saying he cares more about the whims of the hard right, the hard hard right, than avoiding a shutdown, says Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY). Schumer says the U.S. should not be on the brink of a government shutdown, because Democrats and Republicans reached an agreement on spending back in June. We all shook hands on this deal, added Schumer. But now the speaker and only the speaker is going back on his word. The Senate voted to advance a short-term measure to fund the government through November 17th. This includes $6 billion for disaster relief and another $6 billion in aid for Ukraine. But this week, Speaker Kevin McCarthy said he would not consider the Senate measure. All the damage done from that rests on Kevin McCarthys shoulders, said Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR), who lambasted the decision. Meanwhile, Republicans are pushing for a House vote Friday on a plan to add border funding and slash other spending. I think thats the plan for tomorrow, said Rep. Bob Good (R-VA). And well see what kind of number we can put on the board. Although Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) criticized the approach of his own party in the House. Shutting down the government is a choice and its a choice that would make the crisis at the southern border even worse, said McConnell. Most senators agree the only road to funding the government is a bipartisan one that includes compromise. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. As the U.S. Congress inches closer to a shutdown, over budget concerns and appropriations legislation, there are a variety of programs, locations, and jobs that will be impacted by a lack of federal funds. The deadline to reach an agreement and avoid a shutdown is Saturday, and as reported by the Associated Press, the gridlock in Washington remains firmly in place. For Georgia, even a temporary break in federal funds will have impacts across a wide range of state activities. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Programs: Food, Health, Education and more Among the various programs operating in Georgia that will be paused during a potential government shutdown are several initiatives and benefits for low-income families. While the federal Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, also called food stamps, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, also known as welfare, will continue paying benefits to those receiving them, customer service operations will be delayed as federal funds pay for staffing needs in the different management offices. Similarly, Georgias Medicaid and Medicare beneficiaries, as well as those on Social Security and Supplemental Security Income, will face a similar potential with delays for service if theres a problem with their benefits releases. Additionally, Georgias Head Start program, which provides early learning and development assistance to low-income families with young children up to the age of 5, would have to shut down during a governmental pause. Housing assistance, such as the Neighborhood Stabilization Program funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, in addition to more traditional housing programs like Section 8 vouchers for low-income, disabled, elderly, and some veterans who receive help paying rent from federal funds. Research programs that use federal funding may not have to shut down, but work could be delayed or slowed down to accommodate the lack of active funding. TRENDING STORIES: Work but no pay for some federal employees While some federal employees will be furloughed, meaning theyll be sent home temporarily instead of remaining at work, not all workers will be impacted the same way. For federal law enforcement agencies, border patrol, and other workers deemed essential will remain working full-time but will not be paid during a potential shutdown. This includes members of the military in all branches. In terms of direct impact to Georgians, the U.S. Military employed 63,873 active duty personnel as of September 2022, according to the U.S. Department of Defense. That means all 12 military bases in Georgia would be affected. Georgia officials said the state is ranked fifth for total DOD military, civilian, reserve, and national guard employment levels across the U.S., and that the U.S. Army employs 63% of Georgias military personnel. The Air Force employs another 23%, while the Navy and Marine Corps employ 11% and another 3% are employed by other defense activities. The White House confirmed Tuesday, according to the U.S. Army, that civilian military employees would be furloughed, while reserve troops will continue to work, but non-active training programs will not be held. For National Guard and Reserve members, Georgias 26,512 personnel would remain unpaid alongside their active duty comrades. The states 33,442 civilian personnel would be furloughed. The total federal civilian workforce, which includes military personnel, was 77,034 as of March, according to the Congressional Research Service. All of those employees would be furloughed amid a shutdown. Additionally, 59% of CDC staff would be furloughed, with 41% remaining active for administrative or other staff working on activities for the safety of human life, protection of property, and others required for authorized continuation of those activities. National Parks and Museums Georgia is home to 12 national parks, which would all likely close during a government shutdown. That means fan favorites would have to close until Congress is able to agree on a spending bill. Georgia national parks include: Museums that receive federal funding, such as the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library, would also close during the shutdown. Who else could be impacted, or not impacted, when it comes to unpaid work? While many of the federal programs and agencies will see staffing reduced temporarily amid a budget shutdown, and others would have staff work without pay until an agreement is reached, the President of the United States and all members of the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate would still receive their paychecks. Congressional staff, and others working in the Executive Branch, would likely work unpaid or be furloughed until a potential shutdown ends. Executive Branch staff includes staff at the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, staff at the Social Security Administration, staff at the Internal Revenue Service and even air traffic controllers. However, the U.S. Postal Service will remain fully operational and staffed, as they are a self-funded agency. Several federally subsidized programs or businesses such as Amtrak and airports more generally, will remain in operation, though delays due to fewer staff could be expected as a result of a potential shutdown. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] OTHER NEWS: (NEXSTAR) As Congress remains gridlocked, a government shutdown was looking more and more likely Wednesday. A shutdown, if it did start this weekend, would impact the military, some government benefits, and potentially hundreds of thousands of federal employees. A large group of federal employees who wont be affected, however, are workers with the United States Postal Service. The USPS isnt affected by a government shutdown because it doesnt rely on taxpayer dollars for funding. The agency is funded through the sales of products and services. Government shutdown: Which veterans benefits may, may not be affected That means, even if other federal service are disrupted, the mail would continue to be delivered as normal through a government shutdown, even if it lasts weeks. Thats good news for folks waiting on a new batch of free at-home COVID tests, set to be delivered by the USPS. As of Wednesday, the USPS site where test kits can be ordered still said deliveries were scheduled to start the week of Oct. 2. Social Security benefits, Medicare and Medicaid would all continue to operate, as well. However, potential furloughs might impact customer service and create some other operational delays. While the Senate passed a bipartisan bill to temporarily fund the government and avert a shutdown, the House hadnt made progress toward doing the same by Wednesday afternoon. Free at-home COVID tests are back: Heres how to get yours House Speaker Kevin McCarthy set up a test vote for Friday, one day before Saturdays shutdown deadline, on a far-right bill. It would slash federal spending by 8% from many agencies and toughen border security but has been rejected by President Joe Biden, Democrats and his own right-flank Republicans. I want to solve the problem, McCarthy told reporters. But pressed on how he would pass a partisan Republican spending plan that even his own right flank doesnt want, McCarthy had few answers. He rejected outright the Senates bipartisan bill, which would fund the government to Nov. 17, adding $6 billion for Ukraine and $6 billion for U.S. disaster relief while talks continue. Instead, he insisted, as he often does, that he would never quit trying. Lawmakers have until late Saturday night, at midnight, to reach a deal and avert a shutdown. The Associated Press contributed to this report. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) The Clark County School District (CCSD) received a competitive grant that awarded it $10 million, which will be used to focus on implementing high-quality Pre-K literacy and language skills programs. The Early Childhood Innovative Literacy Program Grant, which was a total of $10,009,738, was awarded to CCSD by the Governors Office and the Nevada Department of Education. The new curriculum, designed to promote the holistic approach to educating children, will provide all 547 CCSD Pre-K classrooms with access to Tier-1 instruction materials, aligned professional learning opportunities for instructors, social-emotional support, and family engagement opportunities. This funding enables us to work closely with all families to prepare their children with the basic skills and knowledge necessary for proper development and ongoing academic success, Superintendent Dr. Jesus F. Jara said. Families can participate in in-person or virtual learning sessions that provide them with skills and resources to improve their childs literacy and language development at home, build executive functioning skills, and increase kindergarten readiness. Through the Early Childhood Department, CCSD offers Pre-K programs to children between the ages of three to five years old at a majority of elementary school campuses in conjunction with federal and state programs. Visit the Clark County School District website to learn more. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. A Canyon County grand jury has indicted three men who allegedly participated in a violent robbery attempt that left one person dead over the summer. On Wednesday, Kyle McGinnis, Tommy Vallotton and Richard Laine were charged with various crimes related to the incident. McGinnis is the lone defendant facing a first-degree murder charge. Caldwell police on Aug. 1 responded to a shooting at 1:40 a.m. and found Jeremy Jones, 44, with life-threatening injuries in the 2400 block of College Avenue, according to a news release from the Caldwell Police Department. Officers determined that Jones injuries had been caused by someone pistol-whipping him, Caldwell police spokesperson Char Jackson told the Idaho Statesman. First responders were en route to Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center in Boise with Jones when he died from his injuries, police reported. McGinnis was the only man to be charged in Jones death, but all three defendants were charged with conspiracy to commit robbery, conspiracy to commit burglary, conspiracy to commit aggravated battery and conspiracy to commit aggravated assault, with an enhancement for using a weapon while committing a felony. Laine also was charged with illegal firearm possession and two counts of aggravated assault. Police said the three suspects fled the scene when a person associated with Jones shot at them. Caldwell police said they learned soon after from the Nampa Police Department that two people had admitted themselves to a Nampa hospital with gunshot wounds, according to the release. Detectives detained both of them. This is one step closer to justice being served and could not have happened without the valiant efforts of our personnel. I am proud of their commitment to excellence and service to our community, said Rex Ingram, Caldwell police chief. The three men were in the Canyon County jail in Caldwell as of Thursday. Students at Grand Valley State University were asked Monday to provide input on how to make Michigan a more desirable place to live and work. ALLENDALE TWP. Students at Grand Valley State University were asked Monday to provide input on how to make Michigan a more desirable place to live and work. Chief Growth Officer Hilary Doe visited GVSU on Monday, Sept. 25, as part of a listening tour for the Growing Michigan Together Council. During the meeting, dozens of students shared their thoughts on how the state can better attract and retain residents in an effort to grow the population. You are all here for an important reason today, Doe said. We need to know what you love about this place and we need to know what could be different and better to keep you here. More: Whitmer announces new effort to reverse Michigan's sluggish population growth Students were separated into groups to discuss transportation, higher education and outdoor recreation. In outdoor recreation, students' suggestions included a centralized app to provide information on the states recreation opportunities, more accessible parks and trails, promoting field trips to the Great Lakes for K-12 students and highlighting winter activities to improve the general attitude toward Michigan winters. Students showed a lot of support for a train system to better connect the state. They also suggest bus routes to connect major cities with surrounding neighborhoods and bus or train connections from airports to surrounding areas. The higher education group suggested a couple of tuition initiatives, including keeping in-state tuition rates low to encourage students to stay in Michigan. Students also suggested a reimbursement program for out-of-state students, where a portion of their tuition could be reimbursed if they stay in Michigan for a set period of time after graduation. Common themes across the state, according to Doe, included transit, affordability of higher education and improving education outcomes. The biggest commonality, though, has been housing concerns. Weve really heard about housing everywhere we go, Doe said. In some cases its stock, they need more stock, in other cases its affordability. In each region of the state, I know thats a top issue. Doe said the council will have more than 70 listening sessions across the state. We wouldnt be successful at this if it were not a group project, Doe said. People are showing up to give us their opinion and their insight. I think if we can come up with a strategy together that folks can see themselves in, we do have a great shot at it." Subscribe: Receive unlimited digital access to your local news coverage The Growing Michigan Together Council was established by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in June with the goal of developing a long-term vision that addresses current and future challenges in the state. It will advise the governor on policies to grow Michigans population. A meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 12, for workgroups to present draft recommendations. Doe said the meeting will be livestreamed. Final recommendations are expected in early December. For more information, visit growingmichigan.org. Contact reporter Mitchell Boatman at mboatman@hollandsentinel.com. This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: GVSU students give their ideas for growing Michigans population The claim: Recent advance in Greenland's Petermann Glacier shows climate change is a 'scam' An Aug. 7 post (direct link, archive link) on X, formerly Twitter, shows two satellite images of Greenland's Petermann Glacier. The images are zoomed in on a channel where the glacier meets the ocean and forms an ice shelf a formation that floats on the water as opposed to resting on the land. An image labeled as being from 2023 shows the leading edge of the ice shelf extending farther out in the channel than an image labeled as 2012. "Greenland's Petermann Glacier has been growing about three meters per day for the past eleven years. This will not be reported by the @nytimes @NPR or @BBCNews #ClimateScam," reads the post's caption. The post was reposted more than 1,000 times on X. Follow us on Facebook! Like our page to get updates throughout the day on our latest debunks Our rating: False Petermann Glacier has lost significant mass due to global warming but as it shrinks, ice continues to flow out of the channel shown in the images. The 2012 image in the post was captured shortly after two large chunks broke off the glacier. The 2023 image shows glacial ice refilling the channel because of gravity-driven ice flow, not because the glacier is "growing." Greenland's Petermann Glacier is not 'growing' Overall, Petermann Glacier is losing mass, not growing, according to researchers. This includes the last 11 years. A study published in 2019 found that the glacier had a net loss of 56 billion metric tons of ice between 1972 and 2018, according to Eric Rignot, a NASA climate scientist who has extensively studied the Greenland ice sheet. Unpublished data shows that net losses continue to the present, he told USA TODAY. The region of northern Greenland where Petermann is located lost more than 300 billion metric tons of ice between 2002 and 2018, according to Polar Portal, a Danish polar data repository. "Petermann is generally thinning, retreating, and its flow is accelerating," NASA reports. The agency also reports that, overall, Greenland has lost about 5.2 trillion metric tons of ice since 2002. Alex Gardner, a NASA cryosphere scientist, told USA TODAY that the leading edge of Petermann has advanced in the channel by about 3.3 meters per day for the last 11 years. This is similar to the figure in the post, but the post is wrong to claim that this means the glacier is "growing." The change is related to "calving," when large chunks of ice break off the glacier and are lost to sea. "Over the past 11 years, the front of the Petermann Glacier has indeed advanced, following a massive calving event in 2010 in which the glacier lost roughly 250 square kilometers of ice," he said in an email. "This event was followed by another large calving event in 2012 that was roughly 1/3 the size of the 2010 event. Since then the ice front has readvanced and regained some of its lost area but is nowhere near its pre-2010 extent." Advancement after a calving event does not mean the glacier is gaining mass, Ruth Mottram, a glaciologist and climate scientist at the Danish Meteorological Institute, wrote in a blog post. Advancement is simply a response to gravity. "After the glacier calves a large iceberg, the glacier behind continues to push ice out through the channel ... and the front eventually moves back to roughly the same position it was in before the calving," she wrote. "However, that does not mean the glacier is 'growing.'" Fact check: Flooding from climate change is real, but no current London catastrophe She told USA TODAY that all glaciers behave this way. "They flow from where the ice is thickest down to where it is thinnest under gravity," she said in an email. She said the claim uses misleading data. "Why do they only focus on the last 11 years when we have decent observations going back more than 20 years? Even three years earlier, the glacier is much more extensive," she said. "Its classic cherry-picking. And even if Petermann had proved to be (growing) rather than losing ice, one single outlet glacier from the Greenland ice sheet proves absolutely nothing about the general health of the Greenland ice sheet or indeed the causes and consequences of climate change." Global climate change is occurring due to greenhouse gas emissions released by human behavior Modern climate change is caused by the atmospheric accumulation of greenhouse gases released by human activity. The physical process by which these gases delay the escape of heat into space and warm the planet is well understood and has been verified through observations and experiments. This warming, which has been detected by multiple independent climate agencies, has consequences that include the melting of ice sheets, glaciers and Arctic sea ice, increasing heat wave frequency and sea level rise. Global warming results in sea level rise because warming water expands and melting ice contributes additional water to the oceans. "The amount of warming we see matches what we expect based on the increased CO2 we've added," Josh Willis, a NASA climate scientist, previously told USA TODAY. "The timing of the warming matches the timing of the CO2 increase caused by people. Not only that, the timing of global sea level rise matches the CO2 increase." Fact check: Greenhouse gases, not Milankovitch cycles, drive modern global warming The X user who posted the claim could not be reached. The claim was also debunked by Reuters. Our fact-check sources: Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or e-newspaper here. Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Facebook. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Greenland Petermann Glacier lost ice over past decade | Fact check Flash The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) has decided to expel U.S. soldier Travis King over an illegal crossing into the country in July, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said Wednesday, without specifying a destination. The U.S. soldier has confessed he illegally intruded into the country as he harbored ill feelings toward inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination within the U.S. army and was disillusioned about the inequality of U.S. society, said KCNA, citing an investigation by DPRK authorities. On July 18, the army private based in South Korea illegally intruded into the DPRK after blending in with tourists to the Joint Security Area of Panmunjom, a demilitarized zone on the Korean peninsula, KCNA said in a previous report. According to the report, King was subsequently taken into custody and expressed his willingness to seek refuge in the DPRK or a third country. By Mahamat Ramadane and Dina Sakr CAIRO/N'DJAMENA (Reuters) - Mamadou Safaiou Barry was determined to study Islamic theology at an elite school. Unable to afford a flight to Egpyt from Guinea, he drew a map of Africa in his spiral notebook and set off on a second-hand mountain bike. Carrying only a change of clothes, a flashlight and a screwdriver, the 25-year-old cycled thousands of kilometres across the continent, passing through jungles, deserts and conflict zones in the hope of landing a place and finding a way to fund it. Four months and seven countries later, he is in Cairo with a full scholarship to Al-Azhar University, one of the world's oldest and most renowned Sunni Muslim learning institutions. "If you have a dream, stay with it and be strong," Barry said. "God will help you." Thousands of West Africans like Barry undertake risky journeys across the Sahara desert each year, searching for a better life. Many never make it. Nearly 500 people died or disappeared on West African migration routes last year, data from the International Organization for Migration shows. Barry decided the risk was worth the reward. "I had to fight," Barry said last month in Chad. Covering approximately 100 km each day, Barry pedalled through Mali, Burkina Faso, Togo, Benin, and Niger before stalling in N'Djamena, the Chadian capital, shaken from his planned route by an ongoing conflict in Sudan. He said he had already been detained three times - twice in insurgency-plagued Burkina Faso and once in Togo, where security forces held him for nine days without charge before releasing him in exchange for 35,000 CFA francs ($56). This was the entirety of his savings for the remainder of the journey, he said. "I often slept in the bush because I was afraid of people in the cities," Barry said. "I thought they would take my bike and hurt me." Barry's luck changed again in Chad after a local philanthropist, who had read online about his journey, offered to fly him directly to Egypt and bypass the fighting in Sudan. Barry arrived in Cairo on Sept. 5 and days later secured a full scholarship to Al-Azhar. A photo shared widely on social media shows him meeting a beaming university representative. He intends to return to Guinea when his studies are complete, to spread the faith that has taken him so far. "When I return to my country, I would like to be someone who teaches Islam and tells people how to do good things," he said. (Writing by Cooper Inveen; Editing by Alison Williams) A student was injured by gunfire Thursday at a Columbus middle school. Muscogee County School District communications director Kimberly Wright emailed the following news release after the Ledger-Enquirer asked officials for an explanation of a social media post about the incident: This afternoon, we received a report of an incident on the campus of Rothschild Leadership Academy. A loaded firearm, concealed in a Chromebook case, was unintentionally discharged, resulting in one of our learners being injured. The student impacted received immediate medical attention. No other injuries were reported. The students and staff of Rothschild Leadership Academy are safe. The weapon has been confiscated, and the investigation is ongoing. Parents have been notified. No other details are available at this time. Columbus Police Department public information officer Brittany Santiago told the Ledger-Enquirer in an email, Our officers were there to assist with an incident that happened at the school. MCSD Police is handling the investigation. Any further questions should be directed to the school districts spokesperson. The Ledger-Enquirer asked Wright for information about the students injury, whether the student was hospitalized, whether the injured student is the same person who had the concealed gun and where at the school did the gun discharge. We will update you as soon as we know more, she said in an email. People line up in the rain outside of the US Supreme Court in Washington By John Kruzel WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday kicks off a new nine-month term featuring major cases ranging from the right of domestic abusers to have guns to the fate of the federal consumer finance watchdog agency, giving its muscular conservative majority fresh opportunities to reshape American law. Its docket features tests of the authority of U.S. agencies including an effort to effectively dismantle the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and limit the in-house enforcement proceedings of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the financial markets regulator. The gun rights, CFPB and SEC cases are among the appeals by Democratic President Joe Biden 's administration that the justices will hear involving rulings by the New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, whose staunch conservatism rivals that of the Supreme Court. The administration also has asked the court to reverse a 5th Circuit ruling limiting access to the abortion pill mifepristone, though the justices have not yet announced whether they will hear the case. By tradition, the court opens its annual term on the first Monday of October. It has had a 6-3 conservative majority since Amy Coney Barrett , the last of Republican former President Donald Trump's trio of appointees, joined in late October 2020. Since then, it has ended its recognition of a constitutional right to abortion, rejected race-conscious college student admissions, expanded gun and religious rights and allowed an exemption to anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBT people and others. "This is the court conservatives have wanted for decades - and it is not disappointing them," said Erwin Chemerinsky, dean of the University of California Berkeley Law School. Chemerinsky said his question heading into the term is: "Will the court continue to push the law so far to the right so fast?" Roman Martinez, a former law clerk for conservative Chief Justice John Roberts who often argues cases at the court, said the court has hewed to a "textualist and originalist approach" that seeks to interpret the U.S. Constitution and statutes as written "in accordance with their original meaning." THE 5TH CIRCUIT The justices on Nov. 7 are set to hear the administration's appeal defending a 1994 federal law that bars people under domestic violence restraining orders from possessing firearms. The 5th Circuit ruled that the law violates the U.S. Constitution's Second Amendment "right to keep and bear arms." U.S. conservatives long have sought to dismantle what they criticize as the "administrative state," the federal bureaucracy whose technical expertise is distilled into a panoply of rules and regulations affecting businesses and individuals. The conservative justices have given succor to this effort and will get a chance to do so again in at least three cases including the CFPB one to be argued next Tuesday. For decades, when courts were asked to review whether an agency's action was authorized by Congress, judges tended to defer to the agency's interpretation of the relevant law, as guided by Supreme Court precedent. But the court in recent years increasingly has demanded that agency actions - especially those of political and economic consequence - be clearly authorized by Congress. It has applied this exacting standard - called the major questions doctrine - to pare back the Environmental Protection Agency's ability to combat climate change and the Education Department's authority to forgive student debt. "I expect the court will continue to look skeptically at ways in which administrative agencies are operating in tension with the separation of powers envisioned by the Constitution," said Martinez, referring to the authority divided among the U.S. government's executive, legislative and judicial branches. University of Illinois Chicago law professor Steve Schwinn characterized the court's hostility to the "administrative state" as "a major power grab at the expense of Congress and the executive branch," and warned of pernicious effects. "As a society, we are unlikely to appreciate the full effects of these court rulings until long after the court has done its business - a little like the frog in the boiling water," Schwinn said. "This is a major problem, and it's anti-democratic." The justices this term could hear five or more appeals of 5th Circuit rulings. In addition to the abortion pill case, they also are considering taking up an appeal by industry groups that challenged a 5th Circuit ruling upholding a Republican-backed Texas law that limits the ability of social media companies to curb content that these platforms deem objectionable. The cases test whether the Supreme Court will go as far as the 5th Circuit. "My instinct is that the Supreme Court will not go this far in most of these cases," Chemerinsky said. "I think the 5th Circuit has taken positions that the most conservative justices will accept, but I would be surprised to see a majority for these positions." (Reporting by John Kruzel with additional reporting by Andrew Chung in New York; Editing by Will Dunham) SPRINGFIELD, Mo. Gypsy Blanchard has been granted parole and is scheduled to be released in December, the Missouri Department of Corrections confirmed. Blanchard, 32, pleaded guilty to murder in 2016 for her role in the killing of her mother, Clauddine Dee Dee Blanchard. Gypsy was sentenced to 10 years in prison but has been granted early release. Gypsy Rose Blanchard is now married despite still being in prison The Greene County case attracted a national spotlight and inspired documentaries and an eight-episode mini-series on Hulu. Gypsys attorneys say her mother abused her and held her prisoner for years as part of an elaborate fraud scheme. They say the abuse included Blanchards mother isolating her, forcing her to use a wheelchair and subjecting her to unnecessary medical procedures. The Louisiana native advanced the lies by claiming they were Hurricane Katrina survivors and Gypsys medical records had been destroyed in the storm. In June of 2015, Gypsy arranged for her online boyfriend Nicholas Godejohn to travel to the familys home in Springfield to kill her mother. After the murder, Gypsy and Godejohn fled back to his home in Wisconsin where they were arrested days later. For his role, Godejohn was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison, but Greene County Prosecutor Dan Patterson struck a deal with Gypsy, taking into account the abuse she suffered. Travis Kelce breaks silence after Taylor Swifts Chiefs appearance Gypsy pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and was sentenced to the minimum of 10 years in prison. She will soon be released after serving 85% of her sentence, as required by state law. She was given credit for the time she spent in the Greene Couty Jail before pleading guilty. Gypsys expected release date is Dec. 28. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley sparred over DeSantiss energy policies, including on fracking, during Wednesday nights Republican debate. What you dont need is a president who is against energy independence. Ron DeSantis is against fracking. Hes against drilling, Haley said. Day two in Florida, you banned fracking. You banned offshore drilling, she added. DeSantis called Haleys comments not true. He pointed to his recently unveiled energy plan that calls for unleashing oil and gas exploration and development on Day One. In response to Haleys remarks about his policies in Florida, DeSantis said, In the state of Florida our voters enacted a constitutional amendment You banned it before they voted and not only that they didnt vote on fracking, Haley interjected. DeSantis said they do produce oil in Florida and called his rivals comments just wrong. In 2018, Florida voters approved a ballot measure that banned offshore drilling. Florida is otherwise a minor producer of oil. The states crude oil production in 2021 was less than 1.5 million barrels, according the federal Energy Information Administration (EIA). The EIA states that Florida accounts for less than 0.1 percent of the countrys crude oil production. In his gubernatorial election campaign, DeSantis said he would urge the Florida Legislature to ban fracking in the state. Fracking, also known as hydraulic fracturing, is a method of extracting oil and gas. It is controversial because of concerns related to drinking water contamination. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. For the first time publicly, the two South Carolina Republicans bidding for the White House took sharp aim at one another Wednesday night, on a GOP debate stage that lacked no drama. U.S. Sen. Tim Scott and former S.C. Gov. Nikki Haley , who appointed Scott to the Senate a decade ago, directly confronted one another after Scott was asked why he would make a better executive of the nation than Haley. Scott said he wanted to restrain government spending and grow the economy. We can bring jobs back to America in a similar fashion that we did when I wrote the tax cuts and Jobs Act, Scott said. But Haley said Scott wasnt ready for a promotion to the Oval Office. I appreciate Tim, but hes been there 12 years and he hasnt done any of that, Haley said. They (Congress) have only given four budgets on time in 40 years, and hes a part of that. Scott punched at Haley for supporting a gas tax increase in South Carolina, which Haley had agreed to support if there was a corresponding income tax cut. Within minutes, the exchange had devolved into insults over the $52,000 curtains that hung in Haleys office as ambassador to the United Nations in the Donald Trump administration, a topic of controversy from five years ago. The fireworks came at the tail end of the two-hour debate in Simi Valley, California, where seven GOP White House hopefuls took the stage together. Haley and Scott were joined by North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former Vice President Mike Pence and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy. They all searched for a breakout moment, and early in the debate, Scott made it clear he did not want to be lost in the background after what was generally considered a mild performance in the first Republican debate a month earlier. Scott received the first question of the night Wednesday and later took on billionaire entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy for a comment he made during the first debate. You know, I cant imagine how you could say that knowing that you are just in business with the Chinese Communist Party, and the same people that funded Hunter Biden and millions of dollars was a partner of yours as well, Scott said during his exchange with Ramaswamy, one of numerous feisty exchanges inside a Ronald Reagan Library where the economy and immigration loomed large. It was a stage that again did not have the race front runner. Former President Donald Trump did not attend the debate and instead spoke to Michigan autoworkers. Haley, who was lauded for her first debate performance, again had fiery moments and was prepared to punch back when attacks were targeted against her. Every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber, Haley said to Ramaswamy after he spoke about efforts to reach young voters by being on TikTok, an app that is feared to be sharing data with China. Ramaswamy said he wants people with different points of view advising him, no matter their age. Thats how I built my companies. I want to be challenged. I want people who disagree with me, Ramaswamy said. Scott received the first question of the night, which was about the ongoing autoworkers strike. On Tuesday, President Joe Biden joined the picket line. Joe Biden should not be on the picket line. He should be on the southern border working to close our southern border because unsafe, wide open and insecure, Scott said. Haley also called for 25,000 more border patrol and ICE agents to control illegal immigration. On reducing the costs of health care, Haley said she would push for tort reform and transparency in care. We need to bring competition back to health care, get rid of certificate of need systems and make sure that they can compete, we have to put the patient in the drivers seat, Haley said. Flash The Joe Biden administration said Wednesday that it will grant Israeli citizens the privilege of traveling to the United States without a visa. According to a joint statement issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of State, Israel's admission into the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) will take effect on Nov. 30. Citizens of countries enrolling in the VWP, which is managed by the DHS, are allowed to enter the United States visa-free for tourism and business purposes and stay for up to 90 days. As a reciprocal step, U.S. citizens may apply to enter Israel for tourism, business or transit without a visa and stay in the country for up to 90 days. In the case of Israel, a key concern for the United States before designating that Israel is eligible for the VWP is Israel's entry policies toward Palestinian-Americans. The DHS monitored Israel's compliance with the VWP requirement to extend reciprocal privileges to all U.S. citizens "and engaged with Palestinian-Americans both living in the West Bank and living in the United States, who now have the ability to enter Israel visa free," read the joint statement. A group of 15 Democratic senators wrote to Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sept. 8 to express their opposition to Israel's VWP designation. Citing Israeli authorities' restrictive entry policies to U.S. passport holders with Gaza IDs, the senators said "it is clear that Israel is not in compliance with" reciprocal treatment for all U.S. citizens that the VWP requires. "As is the process with all VWP countries, the U.S. government will continue to engage with the government of Israel while monitoring its continued implementation of all program requirements, including the reciprocity commitments," the joint statement said. Presidential hopefuls Nikki Haley and Tim Scott sparred toward the end of the second GOP debate over Haleys previous support for raising the gas tax as governor of South Carolina and her spending while serving as United Nations ambassador. Scott, a senator from South Carolina, said leaders should lead by example and addressed Haley after she criticized his time in the Senate earlier in the debate for not accomplishing the initiatives he called for on stage. Scott noted that Haley as governor called for increasing the states gas tax by 10 cents over a period of a few years, to happen along with a cut to the states top income tax bracket. Talk about someone who has never seen a federal dollar she doesnt like, he said. Scott also noted that $50,000 was spent on the curtains of a new residence for the then-U.N. ambassador, alleging that she was responsible for the spending decision. Haley, who served as ambassador during the Trump administration, was the first ambassador to live in the new residence, but the purchase was made during the Obama administration, and Haley had no role in it. You got bad information, Haley responded to Scott. Haley said she pushed back against the gas tax multiple times in South Carolina and noted that the proposal to raise the gas tax was coupled with lowering the income tax. She also emphasized that the $50,000 purchase of the curtains happened before her time as ambassador. Scott asked her why she did not have the curtains returned. Did you send it back? Youre the one who works in Congress, Haley said. You are scrapping, she added. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Royalist is The Daily Beasts newsletter for all things royal and Royal Family. Subscribe here to get it in your inbox every Sunday. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made a secret romantic escape to visit Harrys cousin Princess Eugenie in Portugal earlier this month, according to reports. The couple made the trip after the Invictus Games in Dusseldorf wrapped up, and before returning to their home in California. The claim was made by Portuguese magazine Nova Gente, which said that the couple made the excursion to celebrate Harrys 39th birthday, which fell during the Invictus Games and saw him being sung Happy Birthday by a stadium of fans. Nova Gente said the couple were guests of Princess Eugenie in the village of Melides during their mega-secret operation. Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank now live in Portugal where Jack works in marketing for an exclusive gated development near Melides, on the Atlantic coast. Amal Clooney and Rande Gerber reportedly have a stake in the development. The continuing friendship between Eugenie and Harry and Meghan is in stark contrast to the ongoing estrangement between them and the royals. Eugenie was photographed visiting Harry and Meghan in California last year, when she was their guest at the Super Bowl, and the Sussexes allowed Eugenie and Jack to live in their former home, Frogmore Cottage for over a year while they relocated to Portugal. Nova Gente reported, per the Sun: After the Invictus Games finished, on Saturday September 16, the couple headed to our country for a lightning trip. In a mega-secret operation, and with the reserve that has characterized them since they abdicated their royal duties in 2020, Meghan and Harry preferred not to publicize, either through the press or through their social networks, this romantic getaway. They arrived in Portugal without their children and as soon as they landed, they headed to Alentejo and more precisely to Melides. The pair reportedly stayed in Portugal until September 20, when they flew back home via Heathrow on a British Airways commercial flight. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. The CEO of Hawaiian Electric on Thursday defended her companys decision not to cut the power to certain lines ahead of devastating fires, insisting the company was following protocol. Those decisions were made years before as part of our protocols, CEO Shelee Kimura told lawmakers during a House hearing. In 2019 our team started developing a wildfire mitigation plan and based on what they had learned of the plans in California including their preemptive shutoff program, they determined that that wasnt the appropriate fit for Hawaii, she said in response to questions from Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-Va.). So when youre asking why didnt we shut off the power, that is not our protocol, Kimura said. She also reiterated the companys past statements that its lines caused only a morning fire, but the fire that ravaged Maui over the summer and killed 97 people was a separate afternoon fire. During the tense House hearing, Kimura also stopped short of committing to sharing the companys internal investigation with the public once it is completed. Its too early to speculate on exactly what comes out of this and what form it comes out, but we are committed to sharing whats critical with the public on this, Kimura said. Is there any reason why you wouldnt make it public? pressed Rep. Frank Pallone (D-N.J.). Its just too early to speculate on what that is going to look like in the future. Were very focused on finding out what happened there to make sure that it never happens again, Kimura replied. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Wayne Price, of the Tlingit Nation, stands next to a healing canoe he carved at the University of Alaska Southeast in Juneau, Alaska, on Aug. 27, 2023. Price talked about how he overcame his own addiction through carving. JUNEAU, Alaska In the sanctity of a tribal sweat lodge, master wood carver Wayne Price felt his creator utter a directive to use his talents to help men and women battle addiction. "In that sweat lodge, I said: What can I do, Im just a carver? The creator said he wanted me to create a healing dugout (a canoe) and a healing totem," said Price, who uses a small "adze" cutting tool similar to an ax to whittle off wood chips to fashion his renowned art pieces. Price, a member of the Tlingit tribe pronounced clink-it had sculpted many dugouts and totems, but wondered: How do you make a healing one? "The creator told me each chip that comes off that project represents a life we've lost to alcohol or drugs in indigenous country," Price said. "Of all the chips that came off that project, it wouldn't be enough." More: Targeting 'The Last Frontier': Mexican cartels send drugs into Alaska, upping death toll With an influx of drugs surging north from Mexico, overdose death rates were the highest in 2019 and 2020 among Alaska Natives and American Indians compared to other racial and ethnic groups, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC report, "Drug Overdose Prevention in Tribal Communities," pointed to health inequities, including limited access to addiction treatment, and stressed how culture can help heal. Price, raised in the coastal town of Haines, had struggled with alcoholism for years. He said when he listened to his creator and walked out of the sweat lodge about two decades ago, the cravings ceased. His focus turned to his new commitment to design a healing totem and dugout canoe. The mission would take him years, but he was resolute. "It was a new idea," Price said. "It wasn't even considered. All the entities that support me now, told me 'no' back then." Fast forward to today and Price is a Northwest Coast Arts professor at the University of Alaska Southeast's Juneau campus, where he teaches a new generation how to convey their own messages in their work. Price's art can be seen throughout Southeast Alaska, or Aani, the ancestral home of both the Tlingit and Haida people, according to the Central Council of the Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska. The Central Council, based in Juneau, is a tribal government representing more than 36,000 members worldwide. Throngs of visitors will soon see Price's latest carving, a tribal clan house post, south of downtown Juneau when they ride the Goldbelt Tram. The near-vertical climb carts passengers above the Gastineau Channel about 1,800 feet higher than the Eiffel Tower and Empire State Building. Price's 10-foot cedar post, traditionally placed in pairs at the entrance of a tribal clan gathering place, features a Tlingit warrior holding a paddle and standing on Mount Roberts. Price erected his first healing totem pole in 2006 in Sitka, a popular cruise ship stop on Baronof Island, a five-hour ferry ride southwest of Juneau. The sculpture stands on a lawn in front of the community health services building of Mt. Edgecumbe Medical Center. During a fall, 2006 celebration, about 140 supporters used 4-by-4 boards to haul the 4,000-pound totem from Price's workshop to its resting place, with 400 teaming to hoist the pole using ropes. Over the years, many men and women have stood at its base and reflected on their own need for recovery, with some later telling Price they were inspired to seek help. A plaque at the base of the totem offers a guide to understanding the carvings and embarking on self reflection, reading in part: "Mother Earth is at the base to connect us, sustain us and teach us all as we choose the path of healing and the sacred ground of wellness." A medicine woman kneels barefoot on the earth, holding a cedar basket of medicinal plants. "She is our grandmothers, aunties and mothers who reach out to embrace us with tradition, culture, medicine and love. She is always there to give us strength." A multicultural dance group "Yees Ku Oo" made up of several Alaska Native Nations posed for a group photo following their performance across from the Sealaska Heritage Institute in Juneau, Alaska, on Aug. 27, 2023. There is a shaman with a wolf spirit helper at his feet to guide the shaman as he enters the darkness and brings people out onto paths of recovery and wellness. The sculpture is topped with a raven, which holds the moon in his mouth, "drawing our people away from addiction towards the light of recovery." Rosita Worl, president of Sealaska Heritage Institute in downtown Juneau, has led ongoing efforts to restore Alaska Native culture throughout the schools and community. Worl, also a Tlingit member, was taken from her family at age 6 and spent three years in a Christian boarding school, where she said they tried to "beat my nativeness out of me," during colonization. "Not only was our culture suppressed, but now we have this sickness that is destroying people and their lives," she said, referring to addiction. "Generational trauma has an impact on us," she said. "We definitely know that culture heals." Rosita Worl is president of the Sealaska Heritage Institute in Juneau, Alaska. The art in the background represents the four major clans of Alaska Natives. Aug. 25, 2023. Incorporating culture in addiction treatment is a national trend across Alaska and the nation. Alaska is working to revive native culture in other ways, too. Programs are helping youths learn tribal languages as well as connecting to customs, including fishing, hunting, berry picking, dancing and storytelling. During one project still underway, 10 artists from the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian tribes completed totems on display along the Juneau waterfront. Another 20 are planned, including one from Price. On another mission, Price taught carving to 18 young adults through an alcohol-free and drug-free camp in 2009. The campers were dropped off on Egg Island, surrounded by the Yukon River, a few miles off the shores of Whitehorse, the capital of northwest Canada's Yukon territory. "The only way off was to carve a 30-foot dugout canoe," Price said. The youths spent more than two months whittling down a six-and-a-half-ton red cedar log into a 30-foot canoe. "It's the land of the midnight sun, so chips were flying all the way to midnight, and it was still daylight," Price said. "I saw how much it changed their lives." Price completed a healing dugout, an intricate 28-foot red and black canoe, currently on display at the college's Juneau campus, where Price teaches students of all backgrounds. Kevin Jones, a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, said he was in a dark place due to addiction when he signed up for Price's art classes six years ago, Jones, a stained-glass artist and painter, became Price's apprentice, also using art to heal. "Wayne made it very clear I could use the elements of Northwest Coast design to tell my own story," said Jones, whose paternal great-grandparents were victims of the infamous Trail of Tears. "We were removed from our ancestral lands and a lot of our stories are gone." Price guided Jones to carve a native paddle and to go on a journey on a dugout that braved ocean waves. "There was a natural progression of the addiction losing its power," Jones said. "I realized that just like the art, my life has value." This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Alaska Natives tradition to battle influx of drugs, addiction After a lengthy and at times heated labor dispute, Placer County sheriffs deputies are finally getting a raise after years without a contract. The Placer County Board of Supervisors this week approved a new memorandum of understanding, giving deputies an immediate 10% raise and another 11% over the next three years. The boards $29 million investment in law enforcement employees over the four-year term of the contract aims to bolster recruitment and retention, the county said in a news release. The agreement comes five years after the Placer County Deputy Sheriffs Associations contract with the county expired. Stalled labor negotiations since then have resulted in more than one contentious Board of Supervisors meeting and a lawsuit over Measure F, the voter-approved formula used to set deputy salaries. At the time, the county said the Measure F formula would have resulted in 18% higher salaries for Placer deputies than comparable jurisdictions, which the county argued was unsustainable wage growth. The deputies union argued that to do away with Measure F without voters consent was in violation of the law and voters rights. In a May 2 ruling, a judge rejected the Deputy Sheriffs Association complaint, ruling that Measure F did not need to be repealed by voters. She also said the county had the power to do away with it by negotiating a new labor contract with the deputies. Im so happy that we are where we are, Supervisor Shanti Landon, who represents the Lincoln area, said in a statement. We love our deputies and our law enforcement in Placer County and I just want to make sure we continue that culture. Board chair Jim Holmes said he was grateful to Deputy Sheriffs Association President Travis Thornsberry. We have been in this stalemate for quite a while, and we are here today because of you and your staffs leadership, Holmes said in a statement. I want to thank you personally and on behalf of the board for your work getting this done. The agreement will remain in effect from Oct. 7 through June 30, 2027. Some employees will receive an additional 6% wage increase in exchange for reduced peace officer standards and training certificate incentive pays. The contract also includes increased county contributions to employee health care premiums and adds another paid floating holiday. All active Deputy Sheriffs Association members receive a $3,000 retention bonus, the county said. Earlier this month, the board approved a separate agreement providing a one-time 15.5% wage increase for correctional officers to maintain hiring competitiveness. High school seniors are preparing for the first round of college applications since the Supreme Court decision nixing universities use of affirmative action in the process. In the new landscape, school counselors and advocates are urging students to find ways to take advantage of their essays to talk about their lived experiences after the high court in June ruled universities no longer could use a persons race or ethnicity to help boost their application. The court, however, said students should be allowed to talk about their experiences with discrimination and how their personal situations have shaped who they are. At the same time, as all parties agree, nothing in this opinion should be construed as prohibiting universities from considering an applicants discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise, Chief Justice John Roberts said in the majority opinion on the ruling. While not all schools used affirmative action in their admissions before that decision, many did, including most of the nations top universities, such as Harvard and Yale. The ruling was, I think, left intentionally vague because there are still so many different ways that the universities will have to think about how do they incorporate or think about race or how do they exclude it from their admissions, said Grace Dhanraj, an expert admissions consultant for Quad Education Group. While numerous schools released statements after the affirmative action case saying they are committed to diversity, some high school seniors dont see a path forward for them, even if they shift emphasis to their essays. Dhanraj says she has seen high schoolers leaving out schools they are qualified for from their application pool because the lack of affirmative action makes them feel as though they dont have a chance at admission. I think the biggest issue were seeing is that students have kind of a philosophy where they actually could be able to attend [but dont apply] because they dont think that the opportunity is there for them anymore, or because they think the university doesnt want them anymore, Dhanraj said. Only eight states had affirmative action banned in college admissions before the courts decision, leaving thousands of colleges the task of revamping their admissions process and millions of high schoolers to figure out what needs to be changed in their applications. For me, Ive advised students and families to really write about their own lived experiences. So this is not necessarily new for me, but its certainly going to be new for a lot of colleges and a lot of high school counselors who are advising students in the application process, said Jill Orcutt, the global lead for the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO). Experts say even before the Supreme Court ruling, students struggled with writing about themselves in their college essays, which have now become an even more important part of the process. I encourage students to take advantage of those writing workshops offered by colleges and universities, Orcutt said. The best advice to students is to write about themselves, to really think about their personal statements as a reflection of their own lived experience and what their goals in life are and how they think about achieving those goals. Orcutt served as the associate vice chancellor for enrollment at the University of California, Merced, in a state where affirmative action in college admissions has been banned since 1996. She says she has seen many students over the years who are not comfortable writing about themselves, but colleges are looking for self-reflection. For example, a lot of students want to write about their families and their parents or their grandparents attending a particular institution. I think its good advice for students and their families to focus on the applicant, and that means writing about their lived experience, talking about any obstacles that they may have experienced in life and what they learn from it and how they plan to utilize that experience moving forward to think about their own personal success, she added. And the affirmative action case is not the only major change high schoolers have had to navigate. Many are also dealing with changing test score requirements as schools pick up or drop tests, such as the SAT and ACT. I think its been already a tough time. I think the whiplash between all these new things such as test-optional now having to have a LinkedIn is pretty much almost a mandatory requirement to getting in, and then also now the affirmative action decision, Dhanraj said. So I think students have a lot more questions without any clarity from the schools. The future of the application process could be steered toward a more holistic approach, according to experts. Were not looking at one aspect, maybe racially or ethnically, were not just looking at that piece, but were also looking at the opportunity of experiences, the diversity of the experiences that are being had, as well as the opportunity to be inclusive, and an opportunity to be able to be equitable, to give an equitable access to those opportunities for young people, said Tara Bellevue, vice president Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access Strategy for NAF, a nonprofit focused on preparing high schoolers for the future. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. House Republicans in U.S. Congress decided to strip $300 million in Ukraine aid from their defense spending bill in an effort to secure votes from their hardline members, The Hill reported on Sept. 28. The House Rules Committee convened at night on Sept. 27 to remove the funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative from the defense spending package and instead had it stand as a separate bill, the outlet said. The Republican Party was likely trying to secure the votes of hardline party members critical of the level of U.S. support for Ukraine. According to The Hill, the Democrats are expected to oppose the proposed package as a whole, making every Republican vote all the more valuable. "There are some people who can't in good conscience take a vote for the (Defense Department appropriations) bill if it includes money for a war that they are morally opposed to," Republican lawmaker Thomas Massie said. Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support Us The announcement signals a reversal of the Party's previous statements, as House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said on Sept. 23 that Ukraine assistance will not be cut from the bill. Preserving the funding for Ukraine as part of the defense spending package was even supported by the majority of House Republicans during a vote on Sept. 27. The Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative is meant to provide funds for training, equipment, salaries, and other needs of the Ukrainian military. Washington is leading the allied effort in support of Ukraine's struggle against Russian aggression. However, the growing opposition from the hardline elements of the Republican Party put the future of this support into doubt. The U.S. is heading for the next presidential election in 2024, and several leading Republican candidates, including former President Donald Trump, have criticized Biden for devoting too much attention and resources to Ukraine. Ukraine has received over $76 billion in support from Washington between January 2022 and July 2023, including around $45 billion in military and security assistance. Read also: Oleg Sukhov: The West lacks political will to ensure Ukraines victory Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Hilton Heads long-discussed Northpoint workforce housing project reached a milestone today, as town officials announced theyve selected a finalist developer to carry out construction. Just over a year after bids began to trickle in from private developers looking to partner with the town on affordable housing, Hilton Head awarded the project to Atlantas OneStreet Residential. The companys portfolio includes several workforce and active adult communities developed throughout Georgia and South Carolina. Naming a private partner is a significant step for the project, as Hilton Heads cost of living climbs and need for homes that island workers can afford remains. Several privately spearheaded proposals advertised as workforce housing are in the works, including an effort to rezone areas of Sea Pines Circle to allow for higher housing density, but some elected officials are wary that private interests could turn those promised affordable units into market-rate condos in the future. This public-private partnership, built on about 11 acres town-owned land, represents a long-term commitment from Hilton Head Island that will last for decades, Town Manager Marc Orlando said. The Northpoint property is about 2 miles from the Hilton Head school complex, rec center and the North End post office, an attractive location for young families. Our goal for this project is to serve the islands workforce forever, he added. Negotiating the development agreement is the next step in the process, Orlando said. While he was short on details, Orlando told press the agreement will include covenants to ensure the 50% designated housing remains affordable to workers in the future. The development will feature from 150 to 170 homes ranging from 1- to 3-bedroom apartments. Half of the units will be reserved for tenants making between from 60% to 80% of Hilton Heads area median income (AMI). The 80% cap is $77,900 a year for a single person and $111,000 for a family of four. To ensure the project is specifically benefiting islanders, Orlando said the residents must be employed on Hilton Head Island. This project will factor in, do you work here? You must work here to live there, Orlando said. The other 50% of units wont be subject to specific AMI ranges. Hilton Head Mayor Alan Perry acknowledged that aspect of the project means it wont be enough on its own to bury Hilton Heads housing need. No, Perry said when asked if the project is sufficient alone. This is one step to drive it forward. Orlando said he expects to strike a development agreement within the next few months, and the site will be shovel ready by the end of 2024. Construction is expected to last 16-18 months, which would place project completion in summer to fall of 2026. People attend the The National African American Reparations Commission (NAARC) and the American Civil Liberties Unions forum to discuss reparations as the country continues to reel from the impact of slavery and its legacy, including the Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African-Americans Act, at the Metropolitan AME Church in Washington, DC, on June 19, 2019. ( People attend the The National African American Reparations Commission (NAARC) and the American Civil Liberties Unions forum to discuss reparations as the country continues to reel from the impact of slavery and its legacy, including the Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African-Americans Act, at the Metropolitan AME Church in Washington, DC, on June 19, 2019. ( A historically Black Church appears to have been vandalized for the second time in three years. According to Fox New 5, on Wednesday police officers were called to Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church in Washington, D.C., after discovering that swastikas had been spray-painted on their Black Lives Matter sign. The vandalism would have been disturbing on its own, but this isnt the first time the church and its sign have been attacked. Read more It mattered not that the land was ours. It mattered not that the sign was ours. The mythology that motivated the perpetrators on Saturday night was the underbelly of the American narrative that White men can employ violence to take what they want and do what they want and call that criminality justice, freedom, and liberty. Its not clear if the two attacks are connected. According to Fox News local D.C. affiliate, police still dont have a suspect in the vandalism. 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. FTZ reforms to boost trade, data flows 08:42, September 28, 2023 By ZHONG NAN ( China Daily Vessels dock at the port of Lianyungang, a pilot FTZ area in Jiangsu province. WANG CHUN/FOR CHINA DAILY China will introduce a series of pioneering integrated reforms at its pilot free trade zones to improve areas like trade, investment, finance and cross-border data flows, government officials said on Wednesday. Speaking at a news conference in Beijing, Sheng Qiuping, vice-minister of commerce, said the proposed reforms will enable the country's FTZs to align with the high standards of international trade, thereby deepening institutional openness and fostering innovation and development across the entire industrial chain. Despite covering less than 0.4 percent of the nation's territory, China's 21 FTZs contributed more than 18 percent of its foreign direct investment and nearly 18 percent of the country's foreign trade value in 2022. These figures increased to 18.4 percent and 18.6 percent, respectively, in the first half of this year, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce. As the negative list for foreign investment access within China's FTZs has already eliminated restrictions in the manufacturing sector, Sheng emphasized that focus will now shift to expansion of openness in the services sector within the FTZs. A negative list refers to specific areas of industry where foreign investors are not allowed to operate. They can operate in areas not appearing in the list. He said the Ministry of Commerce will collaborate with relevant government branches to further prune the negative list for foreign investment access within the FTZs. They will work on introducing a negative list for cross-border trade in services, paving the way for nationwide expansion in the next stage. Highlighting that China's FTZs are already in line with international standards in trade, investment, finance, shipping, talent and other areas, Sheng said they have introduced numerous fundamental and groundbreaking reform and opening-up measures, leading to several landmark and pioneering institutional innovations. For instance, 84,000 companies have registered in the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone since its inception 10 years ago. The large number, he said, is testament to the zone's vibrant business environment. This was made possible by many institutional innovations that were first tried out there, according to information released by the Shanghai municipal government. Out of the 302 institutional innovations introduced at the 21 FTZs across China, the Shanghai FTZ pioneered 145. Launched on Sept 29, 2013, the Shanghai FTZ is the first of its kind in China and covers more than 240 square kilometers. China's FTZs underwent expansions in both 2014 and 2019. Over the years, they have pioneered institutional innovations that contributed to a number of achievements like increased collaboration in promoting industrial growth, open and coordinated development of specialized industries, and more effective resource allocation on a broader scale, said Yang Zhengwei, director-general of the Department of Pilot Free Trade Zones and Free Trade Ports at the Ministry of Commerce. In terms of investment liberalization and facilitation, the FTZs conducted explorations and promoted a series of institutional innovations that encompass the entire life-cycle management of enterprises, from establishment and changes to operations and exits. These innovations have played a pivotal role in further optimizing the national investment environment, Yang said. Following the arrival of a remanufactured engine at Shanghai Pudong International Airport in mid-September, Volvo Construction Equipment (China) became the first company to engage in remanufacturing operations in China, thanks to the favorable policies rolled out by the Shanghai FTZ, said Chen Chaoping, the company's vice-president. Compared to a new product of the same kind, remanufactured products can save up to 60 percent in energy consumption and reduce emissions by as much as 80 percent, he said. China's FTZs will continue to function as testing centers for novel trade and government policies, before they can be rolled out at a national level, said Chen Zhenchong, director-general of the Department of Free Trade Zones and Special Control Area under the General Administration of Customs. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) Holy items stolen from a Catholic Church in Fresno County have been returned except one sacred piece, according to the Diocese of Fresno. Over the weekend, St. Ritas Mission Church in Yokuts Valley had its tabernacle, Eucharist , and other holy items taken. On Wednesday, officials say the items reported stolen were found on the doorsteps of another church, not affiliated with the Catholic Diocese, on Shaw and McCall in Fresno County; the Eucharist was not among the items recovered, which the Diocese of Fresno described as disheartening and alarming. The worst is that: Holy items stolen from church in Yokuts Valley Officials say the items were accompanied with a note asking to return the items to St. Ritas Mission Church. While the Church community, Fr. Arias and Bishop Brennan are glad the items were returned to the parish, it is disheartening and alarming that the Holy Eucharist was not returned with the items. We as a faith community offer up prayers of thanksgiving for the items we recovered, but also still pray for the individual who did not return the Holy Eucharist, says Chandler Marquez, Director of Communications for the Diocese of Fresno. The Fresno County Sheriffs Office continues to investigate the theft. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com. House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, sent a response letter to Fulton County, Ga. District Attorney Fani Willis Wednesday after she rebuked the investigation he opened last month into her probe of former President Donald Trump's efforts to overturn the election in her state. The latest letter from the Ohio representative explains Congress' "clear legislative interest" in making sure elected prosecutors don't abuse their authority to politically "target federal officials," which is one of Jordan's main accusations against the Atlanta-area district attorney. He argues, in the letter, that the "Constitutional and legal precedent" Willis cites does not provide her with any basis to reject compliance with the committee's requests. #BREAKING: @Jim_Jordan Responds to District Attorney Fani Willis Today, House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-OH) sent a letter to Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis reinforcing concerns that Willis's prosecutorial conduct is geared more toward advancing a House Judiciary GOP (@JudiciaryGOP) September 27, 2023 "Your letter reinforces the Committee's concern that your prosecutorial conduct is geared more toward advancing a political cause and your own notoriety than toward promoting the fair and just administration of the law," Jordan opened in the nine-page letter, later referring to Willis' response to his initial communication "hostile" and suggesting it indicates she is "actively and aggressively engaged in such a scheme." Jordan launched the investigation into Willis' handling of her sprawling racketeering indictment late last month, just 10 days after she brought charges against the former president and his 18 co-defendants alleging an expansive conspiracy to subvert his 2020 electoral defeat. In his initial letter notifying her of the congressional probe, Jordan accused Willis of being politically motivated in her prosecution of Trump, deeming the indictment an attempt to interfere with the upcoming presidential election. The Republican representative asked whether she communicated or coordinated with the Department of Justice, which has indicted Trump in two other criminal cases including a parallel 2020 election case, and whether she used federal funding to carry out her years-long probe of the former president and his associates. He also gave Willis a Sept. 7 deadline to turn over any documents and communication related to the committee's inquiry. Willis fired back in a nine-page response on the day of the deadline, blasting Jordan for including "inaccurate information and misleading statements" and accusing the Ohio Republican of attempting to interfere with a state criminal matter while trying to punish her for his own political gain. "Your letter makes clear that you lack a basic understanding of the law, its practice and the ethical obligations of attorneys generally and prosecutors specifically," Willis wrote to Jordan in her reply. As she laid out the legal precedent and rebuttal to his arguments which she wrote included the "notion that different standards of justice should apply to a select group of people" and declared the committee's investigation an "unjustified and illegal intrusion," she asserted that the federal funding her office had been granted was used for its intended purposes and provided a spreadsheet summarizing the programs and initiatives the grants went toward. In Wednesday's letter, the committee chairman renewed his document request and extended Willis' deadline to produce additional materials to Oct. 11, adding that the committee is willing to prioritize any records "reflecting the coordination between your office and the Department of Justice." He also endeavored to delineate five counterpoints to her response's arguments to "assist Willis in understanding the relevant Constitutional and legal authorities of the Committee's oversight," according to the committee's X post. The letter pushed back on her rejection of the request, arguing that the group has the constitutional authority to conduct oversight into her "apparently politically motivated prosecution," that the inquiry pertains to a matter that could prompt legislation and that the probe "does not usurp executive powers." "If state or local prosecutors can engage in politically motivated prosecutions of senior federal officers for acts they performed while in federal office, this could have a profound impact on how federal officers choose to exercise their powers," Jordan wrote in the letter, adding that, as demonstrated by the full Fulton County special grand jury report, Willis "contemplated an even more extensive intrusion into federal interests, targeting U.S. Senatorsincluding the current Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committeefor actions they undertook in their official capacities." Notably, Willis did not indict every individual recommended for charges by the Fulton County special grand jury. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C. and former Republican Sens. David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler of Georgia, though overwhelmingly recommended by the jurors, were excluded from Willis' indictment. Willis likely decided against charging them, legal experts offered at the time of the full report's unsealing, to avoid murky Constitutional issues related to the lawmakers' acting or speaking under an official capacity. Indicting the senators "would have 1) potential constitutional hurdles and 2) would give folks like Jim Jordan a clear 'hook' to do what he's doing now," Asha Rangappa, a lawyer and former FBI special agent, tweeted earlier this month. Seeing lots of news reports highlighting that D.A. Fani Willis did not indict U.S. senators despite special grand jury recommendations. Doing so would have 1) potential constitutional hurdles and 2) would give folks like Jim Jordan a clear "hook" to do what he's doing now Asha Rangappa (@AshaRangappa_) September 8, 2023 House lawmakers passed an amendment to a Defense spending bill that would reduce Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin s salary to just $1, though the provision is unlikely to become law in a piece of legislation that seems doomed to fail. The amendment, offered by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), was agreed to in the House by voice vote Wednesday afternoon. The provision states clearly: None of the funds made available by this Act may be used to pay Defense Secretary Lloyd James Austin III a salary that exceeds $1. Greene hailed her victory in passing the amendment, saying Austin should be fired from his post for the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 and for low military recruitment. She said even $1 was too much for the Defense chief. Theres a loss in confidence in Lloyd Austins leadership and he deserves to be fired, Greene said in a Wednesday video after the vote. Austin, who has an annual salary exceeding $221,000, is a retired four-star general who served 41 years in the military and is the first African American to lead the Defense Department. The Senate confirmed him by a 93-2 vote in 2021. Greene, however, has frequently railed against his leadership. The Georgia Republican has also complained about U.S. service members being fired for refusing to take the COVID-19 vaccines. Secretary Austin has not fulfilled his job duties; as a matter of fact, hes destroying our military, Greene said on the House floor. For the amendment, Greene used the Holman rule, which allows the House to reduce the salaries of federal employees or fire them. Other conservative lawmakers in the House have also complained about Austin, particularly over the Afghanistan withdrawal. Rep. Cory Mills (R-Fla.) introduced articles of impeachment against the Pentagon chief last month over the withdrawal. The spending bills to fund the federal government face an uncertain future in the House, which is struggling to pass them, and are unlikely to pass in the current form in the Senate. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., right, and Ranking Member Jamie Raskin, D-Md., speak during the House Oversight Committee impeachment inquiry hearing into President Joe Biden on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, on Capitol Hill in Washington. | Jacquelyn Martin, Associated Press House Republicans held a hearing Thursday morning into whether there are grounds to impeach President Joe Biden over his familys foreign business dealings and his alleged abuse of power. At least 10 times, Joe Biden lied to the American people that he never spoke to his family about their business dealings, said House Committee on Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., in his opening remarks. He said that Biden claimed there was an absolute wall between his personal and professional life. Lets be clear: there was no wall. The door was wide open to those who purchased what a business associate described as The Biden Brand, Comer added. Related The Kentucky representative pointed to the latest evidence his committee uncovered: Two wire transfers that Hunter Biden, the presidents son received, came from Beijing at a time when his father was campaigning for the presidency. President Bidens home was listed as the beneficiary address, Comer said. House Democrats say there is no evidence against President Biden The lawyers for Hunter Biden, who faces federal felony charges alongside the congressional investigation into his family, told CNN earlier this week that President Bidens address was used in the wire transactions because it was the younger Bidens only permanent address at the time. Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., the ranking member of the committee, leveled attacks on the Republican conference for not being in agreement over launching an impeachment inquiry in the first place, quoting moderate GOP lawmakers like Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., who said its the dysfunction caucus at work about his more conservative colleagues. Back in the reality-based world, the majority sits completely empty-handed with no evidence of any presidential wrongdoing, no smoking gun, no gun, no smoke, Raskin said. They got nothing on Joe Biden. Raskin also criticized lawmakers for diverting their intention from the impending government shutdown which could be just days away. Related What did witnesses say in the impeachment inquiry hearing? A 30-page memo, obtained by Politico on Wednesday, detailed the direction the inquiry will take starting from President Bidens time as vice president as well as his time out of office before running for president, and whether he profited from his sons business dealings. This memo was signed by the chairs of the House Judiciary Committee and the House Committee on Ways and Means. The committee invited four witnesses, who didnt have firsthand knowledge about Hunter Bidens foreign business dealings or President Bidens alleged involvement. Related Two of the witnesses, Bruce Dubinsky, a forensic accounting expert, and Jonathan Turley, a professor at the George Washington University Law School, agreed there isnt any decisive evidence that links President Biden to profits from his sons business dealings. As the age-old adage goes, when theres smoke, theres fire, Dubinsky said, according to USA Today. The critical question facing the American people today is whether behind the smokescreen clouding the Biden family and associates businesses was there, or is there a fire? Meanwhile, Turley said he doesnt believe the current evidence supports an actual article of impeachment, but that is commonly the case in presidential impeachments. White House reacts to impeachment inquiry Ian Sams, the White House spokesman for oversight and investigations, wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, Thursday: These are the Republicans own witnesses! Admitting there is not evidence to warrant this impeachment stunt, he said. Proving this is nothing more than a baseless wild goose chase. In another statement, the White House called out GOP lawmakers for wasting time instead of serving Americans. There are 61 hours and 55 minutes until the government shuts down because of extreme House Republicans chaos and inability to govern, the statement said. The consequences for the American people will be very damaging, from lost jobs, to troops working without pay, to jeopardizing important efforts to fight fentanyl, deliver disaster relief, provide food assistance, and more. Nothing can distract from that. Related Republicans struggled to put forward any evidence of wrongdoing by Joe Biden during a hearing on Thursday thats part of a newly launched impeachment inquiry. The hearing did not go well for Republicans, who control the US House and allege Biden was connected to his sons business dealings that could have resulted in bribery and corruption. They have been investigating the matter for months and have yet to produce evidence linking the president to his sons financial affairs. They failed to do so again on Thursday. Instead, the strategy appeared to be to lay the groundwork to justify a longer fishing expedition. Related: US shutdown moves ever closer as McCarthy digs in over stopgap deal The three Republican witnesses who testified on Thursday all conceded they did not have firsthand knowledge of any criminal activity by Biden. Two of those witnesses, Jonathan Turley, a conservative law professor, and Bruce Dubinsky, a forensic accountant, acknowledged that the information put forward so far by the committee did not amount to corruption. I have previously stated that, while I believe that an impeachment inquiry is warranted, I do not believe that the evidence currently meets the standard of a high crime and misdemeanor needed for an article of impeachment, Turley said in prepared testimony. Still, Turley argued that there were signs of influence-peddling and that the committee should investigate further. Republicans were reportedly caught off-guard by Turleys conclusion and an unnamed Republican aide told CNN the hearing was an unmitigated disaster for the effort. I am not here today to even suggest that there was corruption, fraud, or any wrongdoing. In my opinion, more information needs to be gathered and assessed before I would make such an assessment, Dubinsky, the forensic accountant, said in his opening statement. Thursdays hearing, led by the House oversight committee, is titled The Basis for an Impeachment Inquiry of President Joseph R Biden Jr. The other Republican witness was Eileen OConnor, a former assistant attorney general in Department of Justices tax division, who wrote an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal criticizing the investigation into Hunter Biden s finances. OConnor served on Trumps 2016 transition team for the treasury department, the Washington Post reported. The impeachment inquiry appears to be a thinly veiled effort to try to muddy the waters as Donald Trump , who leads the Republican primary field, faces four different criminal cases after being twice impeached. With little concrete evidence to work with, Republicans instead relied on Hunter Bidens business transactions and text messages to try to cast aspersions on the president. They offered no connection to Joe Biden. The dots are not connected. The name thats been mentioned the most often in this hearing is Hunter Biden, not President Biden, Michael Gerhardt, the lone Democratic witness and a law professor at the University of North Carolina, said several hours into the hearing. The problem is when you sling mud, you have to have mud, Representative Jared Moskowitz of Florida said at one point. The White House essentially ignored the hearing. Instead, its press office blasted out several versions of the same statement throughout the day with a countdown until the government shuts down for lack of funding. There are 60 hours and 55 minutes until the government shuts down because of extreme House Republicans chaos and inability to govern. The consequences for the American people will be very damaging from lost jobs, to troops working without pay, to jeopardizing important efforts to fight fentanyl, provide food assistance, and more. Nothing can distract from that, one such statement read on Thursday morning. With little substance to debate, and no fact witnesses to testify, the hearing often turned theatrical. At one point, Greg Casar, a representative of Texas, asked members to raise their hands if they thought both Hunter Biden and Donald Trump should be tried, and held accountable for their actions if convicted. All of the Democrats present raised their hands, but no Republicans did. I think it is worse than embarrassing that Republicans wont raise their hands. They refuse to say that equal justice under the law should apply to everyone, he said. Democrats also rebuked Republicans for moving forward with an impeachment inquiry absent a full vote from the US House authorizing it. It is not clear whether there is enough GOP support for impeachment in the House for it to survive a full vote. The New York Democrat Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez also accused Republicans of presenting a fabricated text message between Jim and Hunter Biden the presidents brother and son, respectively that she pointed out omitted critical context. Representative Byron Donalds of Florida displayed a selectively edited exchange between the two in the format of iMessages, which was not how the committee originally received the communication. Related: The Republicans impeachment inquiry into Biden is laughably cynical | Moira Donegan In his opening statement, Representative James Comer, the Republican chairman of the House oversight committee, claimed the panel had obtained a mountain of evidence showing corruption. James Comer, the oversight committee chairman, at Joe Bidens impeachment inquiry. Photograph: Jacquelyn Martin/AP He lied by telling the American people that there was an absolute wall between his official government duties and his personal life. Lets be clear: there was no wall. The door was wide open to those who purchased what a business associate described as the Biden Brand, he said. But the New York representative Daniel Goldman, a Democrat, pointed to the fact that Republicans had declined to call Devon Archer, Hunter Bidens business partner to testify. He noted that, in an interview with the committee, Archer had said Joe Biden never discussed business with Hunter Biden and his associates, he got nothing from the businesses, and never took any official acts related to the businesses. Republicans also rejected at least two efforts to subpoena Rudy Giuliani, a close ally of Donald Trump who was instrumental in spreading allegations of improprieties by Hunter Biden. Hunter Biden is currently suing Giuliani for the total annihilation of his data privacy. For years, Republicans have sought to link Hunter Bidens business dealings with foreign companies to Joe Biden. But after reviewing thousands of pages of Hunter Bidens financial records, they have yet to turn up any kind of substantial evidence, according to the New York Times. GOP lawmakers hope to build enough of a case of bribery and abuse of power by Biden. The hearing comes as Republicans have struggled to pass a spending plan to keep the US government open. Democrats have seized on the Thursday hearing to accuse Republicans of being unserious about passing a spending plan. Jason Smith, a Missouri Republican who chairs the House ways and means committee, also said Biden was connected to his sons business dealings, something Republicans have been unable to prove. Whether it was lunches, phone calls, White House meetings or official foreign trips, Hunter Biden cashed in by arranging access to Joe Biden, the family brand, Smith said in his opening remarks. In a lengthy response, Representative Jamie Raskin, the ranking Democrat on the committee, blasted Republicans for focusing on impeachment days before the US government was set to shut down due to lack of funding. Were 62 hours away from shutting down the government of the United States of America and Republicans are launching an impeachment drive based on a long debunked and discredited lie, he said. They dont have the votes because dozens of Republicans recognize what a futile and absurd process this is. Republicans have said they will move forward with impeachment, even if the government shuts down. Residents were evacuated from their homes due to a gas leak in Wrentham Thursday. A gas main ruptured near Harrier Path off Industrial Road due to a construction accident, the Wrentham police department shared on Facebook. Houses on Harriet Path and Eagle Brook Boulevard were evacuated as a precautionary measure. Power to the area was intentionally disrupted as crews responded. No one was injured during the incident. Photos sent to Boston 25 showed fire crews spraying a hose in the area. Members of the Franklin Fire Department were also at the scene of the gas leak, the department shared on social media. Our Engine 1 has been dispatched mutual aid to Wrentham for a gas leak on Harrier Path. Franklin Fire (@FranklinMAfire) September 28, 2023 Residents were asked to avoid the area until further notice/ 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 As things stand, former President Donald J. Trump is the prohibitive favorite to win his third Republican presidential nomination next year. He leads the Real Clear Politics national polling composite by a resounding and unprecedented 53%. He leads Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis by 33% in Iowa and Nikki Haley by 31% in New Hampshire. Despite accumulating 91 criminal charges in four jurisdictions, Trumps polling numbers among Republican voters are actually going up. And he is picking up steam. U.S. Sen. Mike Braun endorsed him last week, saying: Donald Trump is a businessman and outsider. 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 2nd Amendment rights, and we disrupted the cozy, self-serving Washington elites who are bankrupting our country. I give Donald Trump my endorsement for President of the United States. Bankrupting the country? The national debt increased $7.8 trillion during President Trumps four years in office to $28 trillion, amounting to $23,500 in new federal debt for every American. On Sept. 24, Trump urged congressional Republicans to shut the government down this weekend. The Republicans lost big on Debt Ceiling, got NOTHING, and now are worried they will be BLAMED for the Budget Shutdown, Trump said. WRONG!!! Whoever is President will be blamed. Unless you get everything, shut it down. For 35 days in late 2018 and 2019 when Trump was in the White House and Republicans held congressional majorities, Republicans shut the federal government down over a $5.7 billion impasse on funding for the Mexican border wall, something Trump had repeatedly insisted that Mexico would pay for. September 27, 2023: Former President Donald Trump speaks in Clinton Township, Mich. A 2019 CBS News poll found that 71% of Americans considered the border wall not worth the shutdown and a Washington Post/ABC News poll found that 53% of Americans blamed Trump and Republicans. In 2013, the congressional Republican majority forced a 16-day government shutdown under President Barack Obama. According to a Washington Post/ABC News poll conducted several months afterward, 81% of Americans disapproved of the shutdown and 53% held Republicans in Congress accountable. That ill-fated shutdown prompted then-U.S. Rep. Marlin Stutzman of Indiana to tell the Washington Examiner, Were not going to be disrespected. We have to get something out of this. And I dont know what that even is. We all know what happened afterward: Republicans lost the White House and U.S. Senate in 2020. Conservative commentator Hugh Hewitt writes in his Washington Post column, Im tempted to call whats happening a Seinfeld shutdown because its a shutdown about nothing other than some politicians wretched self-interest. A few days after Brauns endorsement of the former president, Trump on Truth Social suggested that Gen. Mark Milley , the outgoing chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, should be executed. He cited Milleys phone call to reassure China in the aftermath of the Jan. 6 insurrection as an act so egregious that, in times gone by, the punishment would have been DEATH. Actually, Milley had two calls to Chinese Gen. Li Zuocheng, the last one two days after the attempted U.S. coup detat that President Trump instigated. Milleys call on Jan. 8, 2021, was conducted with the knowledge of then-Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Defense Secretary Mark Esper, and acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller, according to Politico. My task at that time was to de-escalate, Milley told the Senate Armed Services Committee hearing of the calls that were revealed in Bob Woodward and Bob Costas book Peril. Milley told senators that the specific purpose of his phone calls to Li was generated by concerning intelligence which caused us to believe the Chinese were worried about an attack by the U.S. Milley told CBS 60 Minutes in an interview airing Sunday, As much as these comments are directed at me, its also directed at the institution of the military. And there is 2.1 million of us in uniform. And the American people can take it to the bank, that all of us, every single one of us from private to general, are loyal to that Constitution and will never turn our back on it no matter what. Last weekend, Trump called for the investigation of NBC and affiliates for treason. They are almost all dishonest and corrupt, but Comcast, with its one-side and vicious coverage by NBC NEWS, and in particular MSNBC, often and correctly referred to as MSDNC (Democrat National Committee!), should be investigated for its Country Threatening Treason, Trump wrote. They are a true threat to Democracy and are, in fact, THE ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE! MSNBC Mornin Joe host Joe Scarborough accused Trump of extending an invitation for his people to step up and assassinate leaders like Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and Milley. Thats not a dog whistle, Scarborough said. That is an invitation. Just like come on Jan. 6, its going to be wild. Donald J. Trump is openly conveying to his supporters and all of us what his intentions will be if he is returned to the White House in 2024. Brian Howey is senior writer and columnist for Howey Politics Indiana/State Affairs. Find Howey on Facebook and Twitter @hwypol. This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Howey: Trump is laying it all on the table Emergency responders work the scene of a fatal bus crash, in Wawayanda, N.Y., Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023. The charter bus carrying high school students to a band camp hurtled off a New York highway and down an embankment, officials said. (NBC New York via AP) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) MASSAPEQUA PARK, N.Y. (AP) A high school band director who died when a bus crashed while carrying students from New York to a band camp in Pennsylvania last week was remembered Thursday as a dedicated teacher with a zest for life. Gina Pellettiere, who led Farmingdale High Schools marching band for more than a decade, wasnt just a good teacher, she was a great teacher, Rita Padden, the school's former fine arts director, told mourners at Pellettiere's funeral in Massapequa Park on Long Island. You hear from parents all the time: Ms. P was the reason my son loved trumpet or band. Pellettiere, 43, and retired teacher Beatrice Ferrari, 77, were killed on Sept. 21 when the charter bus they were riding in veered off a highway and crashed down an embankment on Interstate 84 in the town of Wawayanda, northwest of New York City. Dozens of students were injured in the crash; officials said four remained hospitalized as of late Wednesday. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the cause of the crash. Newsday reports that hundreds of students, parents, co-workers and community members attended Pellettiere's funeral Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church. Monsignor Jim Lisante said Pellettiere was here to leave the world better than she found it. Lisante asked, "Did Gina know she would live 43 years? Of course not, but she packed a lot into those years. Padden said Pellettiere lived life to the fullest. Pellettiere's survivors include her parents and the 2-year-old son she was raising as a single mother. The funeral for Ferrari, a retired social studies teacher who was serving as a chaperone on the band trip, took place Wednesday in Farmingdale and drew hundreds of mourners as well. One year after Hurricane Ian made landfall in Southwest Florida, Sarasota and Manatee counties are still recovering from the Category 4 storm's impact. Ian was something none of us had experienced in our lifetimes and probably never will again, " said North Port City Manager Jerome Fletcher. The storm left scars on North Port but we continue to heal. Seven of the 149 deaths linked to Hurricane Ian occurred in the city, which suffered damage from the hurricane's initial passing after making landfall to the south in Lee County, and later flooding, as its prodigious rainfall along the Myakka River basin drained to the Gulf of Mexico. Teresa Karaffa, owner of Lemon Bay Soap Company, pours bars of honeysuckle and lemon/rosemary soap in the kitchen of her home in east Englewood. The shopping plaza where her store was located on South McCall Road was destroyed by Hurricane Ian and has not been rebuilt. Karaffa says commercial rent has doubled or tripled since the storm, so now she works from home, filling orders from her website. Lee County which wound up on the most damaging side of the storm suffered cataclysmic damage, but Sarasota County Emergency Management Director Rich Collins noted that just 24 to 36 hours prior to landfall, forecasters had anticipated Ian would come ashore in Sarasota County. At a recent news conference to discuss the storm's one-year anniversary, Collins said, We were on the edge of a major, Category 4 hurricane. Ultimately that was the largest response in Sarasota County for a storm in as long as anyone can remember in the history of the County. Once the storm subsided and winds dropped below the 45 mph threshold to allow for police, firefighters and emergency services personnel to safely respond, there were more than 845 calls for aid waiting. One of two state-provided Urban Search and Rescue teams were already on site by 11 a.m. Sept. 29. In all, search and rescue efforts in Sarasota County spanned nine days and ended Oct. 7. That timeframe factors into a rule of thumb formula to determine how many days it will take for an area to recover, noted Chris Johnson, vice president of community impact for United Way of South Sarasota County, convener of the Long Term Recovery Group. That formula, developed by National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, attributes 100 days of recovery for each day of search and rescue which means it could take 900 days for Sarasota County to recover from Hurricane Ian. That recovery will be bolstered by $201.5 million in U.S. Housing and Urban Development block grant funding that will be disbursed through the Resilient SRQ program. Later this year through early 2024, the Long Term Recovery Group will be working with World Renew Disaster Response Services and Convoy of Hope two faith-based nonprofits to repair homes of area residents in need. Ians impact by the numbers Some figures at the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Ian's arrival give some sense of the scope of the ongoing recovery: In response to Hurricane Ian, FEMA has provided $1.1 billion to 386,600 homeowners and renters in Florida. It has paid 82.2 million to 26,400 Sarasota County households, $17.9 million to 11,900 households in Manatee, $96.9 million to 27,100 households in Charlotte and $24.5 million to 4,600 DeSoto households. FEMA has also provided temporary housing units, including apartments, travel trailers and manufactured housing units, to 1,361 households, with 107 in Sarasota County. According to the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation, Hurricane Ian insured losses totaled $17.28 billion. with 86.1% of those claims closed as of June 28 the most recent data available. Statewide, 34,865 claims remain open without any type of payment. In Sarasota County, a total of 76,552 claims were filed, with 86.8% closed and 2,970 open claims remaining without payment. In Manatee, 13,962 claims were filed, with 88.9% closed and 688 open claims remaining without payment. Lowball insurance offer snowballs Recovery has been tough for North Port resident Jeffrey Rapkin. Hurricane Ian tore holes in the roof of the two-story home he shares with his wife an autistic daughter and left the interior exposed to the elements. His insurance company, Heritage Property & Casualty Insurance Company, offered $9,000. Rapkin is suing the company in circuit court. According to the case file, the cost to repair the home is in excess of $200,000. He wanted to live in a larger FEMA mobile home on the property and in April filed suit against the city of North Port for its refusal to allow that placement. A month later the City Commission changed its stance but by then, Rapkin said, his daughter had become settled in the FEMA-provided rental apartment on Toledo Blade Boulevard, so he didnt want to move her again. Rapkin and his wife Virginia still mow the lawn and he continues to pay the mortgage on a structure that he cant repair. I lost my home, said Rapkin, who noted that months without a roof have led to other issues with the interior walls and mold. Its structurally unsound, said Rapkin, adding that he expects the city to condemn it as unlivable. Like everybody else, I cant live it and Im waiting for the court system to do something. Were homeless with a house that might have been (saved) but for the holes in the roof. Still, Rapkin counts himself blessed because his family is safe and arent sick. Were going to bound back, were going to bounce back, he said. Im probably not going to ever own another house but well get maybe an apartment that has more than two rooms a bigger place and were going to move on with our lives. North Port City Manager Jerome Fletcher talks about the impact of Hurricane Ian on the city of North Port, as well as lessons learned, during a Sept. 15, 2023 press conference at North Port City Hall. Steady recovery at Holiday Park Holiday Park and Recreation District, a 865-site, 55-and-older manufactured home community in North Port, was devastated on Sept. 28, 2022 as Ian's 100 mph wind gusts ripped through the area. The rebuilding process after that has been slow but steady. As many as 50 residents were living in trailers provided by FEMA, thats been cut in half, as residents get new homes. Our park is in great shape now, Holiday Park District Manager Carmela Coons said. There are still empty lots and somewhere between 50 and 80 lots are for sale. While the roads are owned by the district, the city of North Port has maintained the sewer system, Holiday Park board chair Cheryl Morris said, but theyre still working with the city to determine who is responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the stormwater drainage system and how to best upgrade that. After 50 years of sitting there, they need some work, she added. Repairs are ongoing. The Phase I clubhouse is done, and the swimming pool in Phase II is now running. The worst thing it affected was our finances, Morris said. We were woefully underinsured. We're still working with our insurance comapny to get all our money from Ian claims. The district has also filed with FEMA to reimburse about $200,000 spent on debris clearing but is still waiting on payment, though Morris said FEMA cant pay until repairs are finished. Morris lost a roof and a carport because of Hurricane Ian. I was one of the very blessed that didnt lose a lot, she added. Temporary sun shades and canopies are being put up so people can enjoy outdoor activities. Common area repairs are proceeding slowly in part because the board only opted to raise the monthly assessment fees $5 to $140 a month. A lot of people here just put up a lot of money to fix their mobiles and we didnt want to drown them in tax debt, Morris said, then added they may consider another assessment in 2025. Were very careful watching our budget. Making progress in Englewood Englewood Methodist Church, which has been busy with outreach efforts including partnering with Action Crisis Teams, a faith-based nonprofit from Tennessee specializing in repair and recovery work despite the church suffering millions in damages to its structure, noted church administrator Beth Harrison. For almost eight months, the teams used the church as a place to sleep, while repairing roofs or performing major cleanups of Ian-damaged properties. Its getting better slowly, but still a year later theres still a lot of people who havent been paid on their insurance claims, still a lot of blue (roof) tarps. Deb Jeffes, a volunteer at the clinic hosted by Englewood Methodist noticed a drop in the census at the clinic since Hurricane Ian. People cannot afford to live in this area; they're moving away from this area. Teresa and Dave Karaffa inside their Englewood business, the Lemon Bay Soap Company, which was destroyed by Hurricane Ian. The roof of the business came completely off, with nothing overhead but blue sky. Right here in our subdivision, they've walked away, added Jeffes, who lives with her husband Roy in Oyster Creek. "They've been her 15-18 years, theyre up in age, they're both 90 they dont have the energy and wherewithal to rebuild a house down here today. Elsewhere in Englewood, Teresa Karaffa, owner of the Lemon Bay Soap Company, has been making soap at home since Hurricane Ian destroyed the portion of Feodors Plaza on South McCall Road. They have not even begun to rebuild that part of the plaza, said Karaffa, who figures she lost about $30,000 of product in the hurricane. But her husband Dave saved the pot she uses to make soap, as well as an order of 25 blocks of glycerin she uses to make the soap. Im still filling orders every now and then, Karaffa. Lemon Bay Soap Company has taken over our house but we manage. Costliest storm in Florida Hurricane Ian is considered the third most costly in the U.S., behind Katrina in 2005 and Harvey in 2017, and costliest ever in Florida after causing nearly $113 billion in damage and 149 deaths. Its widely been called a 500-year storm, though Collins referred to it as a 1,000-year rain event. The storm parked for a number of hours over us and dumped an extensive amount of water across the state unprecedented from the center of the state on down, covered I-75 for a period of time, and had to stop traffic on I-75, Collins said. During the middle of the storm on Wednesday, anecdotally I received a call from the National Weather Service saying, 'Rich in the south part of your county south Venice we just recorded over 18 inches of rain in the last hour.' North Port, with 21.45 inches of rainfall in one location, had that beat. Then the Myakka River at Myakka State Park reached a new record flood stage at 12.8 feet, shortly after midnight, Oct. 1. That combination led to severe flooding in the city of North Port, especially in North Port Estates. The original part of the city was founded by General Development Corp. in 1959, after construction of nearly 80 miles of canals and waterways to create land that was carved into 80-foot by 120-foot lots on either side of the Myakkahatchee Creek. The increased volume of water from Ian led to shattered roadways and bridges, notably along Price Boulevard, and flooded previously dry areas such as Country Club Ridge, north of the Cocoplum Waterway and east of McKibben Park, and eroded the north bank of the waterway at Water Control Structure 106. The canal system designed in the 1950s was meant to handle a 10-year storm, or nine inches of rain over a five-day period. No system could have handled Hurricane Ian, Fletcher said. A city overwhelmed In the days that followed, North Port first responders answered 1,312 emergency calls and performed hundreds of water rescues, Fletcher said. The city enacted a curfew and agencies from around the country sent mutual aid. The city collected more than 2.3 million cubic yards of debris in the first 120 days after Ian, compared to 50,000 cubic yards after Irma. Fletcher noted that the citys Social Services department has worked with agencies to distribute a total of $75,000 in hurricane relief vouchers to 300 city residents and worked with the United Way of South Sarasota County to help residents receive aid for rent, mortgage, utilities, medical cae, child care and some home essentials. The city has spent about $85 million on recovery. Both the Utilities and Parks and Recreation administration buildings were destroyed by Hurricane Ian, with those administrators now working out of portables located at Dallas White Park. Warm Mineral Springs was also closed for seven months, with all three historic buildings in limbo pending the negotiation of a public-private partnership agreement that would allow for their restoration, as well as the development of 60-acres of parkland that surrounds the springs. Staff there are using portables for both administration and a restroom facility. In total, the city has suffered about $7 million in damages to its facilities including the Police Department, where all roof leaks have not been patched. All repairs must follow strict FEMA procedures to guarantee reimbursement. Fletcher noted that the city has recovered $27 million from FEMA, with another $15 million in reimbursement scheduled to come soon. Fletcher said the storm has highlighted the citys need to accelerate its replacement program for the aging water control structure system now on a pace of about two a year with the city applying to Sarasota County for a portion of the $201.5 million Resiliency SRQ block grants provided by the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development, in hopes of fast-tracking that process. This government, like many governments, kicked the can of infrastructure improvement down the road for far too long and now were having to repay that right now, Fletcher said. Whether it's our streets, whether its our buildings, we were not in a position to sustain the type of a storm based on it being a 500-year storm, we may have not been able to sustain it anyway. Now it puts more emphasis on fixing our roads, fixing our buildings and making sure that we have structures that are capable of weathering another strong storm, he added. Last November, city voters approved an $80 million bond issue to widen and improve Price Boulevard. Fletcher noted that project is 60% designed and after Ian includes efforts to harden the major east-west roadway, including burying utility lines that had previously been tacked on the side of bridges over canals and waterways. Hed like to convene a regional summit to talk about potential regional solutions for future hurricanes, including possibly building a reservoir north of the city, to capture future floodwaters that could also be used as an additional drinking water source. A quick philanthropic response At the same time federal, state and local governments geared up their response to Hurricane Ian, the local philanthropic community mobilized. The Community Foundation of Sarasota County working in partnership with The Patterson Foundation established the Suncoast Disaster Recovery Fund of about $5 million, targeted to help support long-range programs for human service agencies in Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota counties. About half of those funds have been disbursed, noted Rebecca Abrahamson, a spokeswoman for the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, with payments lined up for the current grant cycle awaiting foundation board approval. The Gulf Coast Community Foundation has committed about $3.5 million in grants, while the Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation has awarded about $2.5 million in grants related to Hurricane Ian. All foundations are still accepting donations for the Hurricane Ian recovery effort. Grants ranged from the Barancik Foundation awarding $95,000 to The Haven a nonprofit that helps provide adults and children with intellectual or developmental disabilities with enhanced quality of life to cover insurance deductibles to a variety of grants to help with mental health, childcare and programming or repairs ot facilities operated by the YMCA of Southwest Florida or the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota & DeSoto Counties. Gulf Coast provided $1 million over the next three years to help rebuild the Gene Matthews Boys & Girls Club in North Port, which was destroyed and several grants totaling $640,000 to the Venice Theatre, which is rebuilding the flyloft and entire main stage area of the Jervey Theatre. Destruction of the theater flyloft was one of the earliest images of Hurricane Ian damage in Sarasota County to circulate internationally. One of the earliest images of Hurricane Ian damage in Sarasota County to circulate internationally was the destruction of the flyloft at the Venice Theatre. Pictured here in Sept. 15, 2023 is the back of the theatre. The flyloft has been removed and in the coming months a new foundation will be poured for the entire stage area and a new, taller flyloft will be constructed, along with a new stage. The theatre could be rebuilt as soon as December, 2024. Productions could return to the stage as soon as January, 2025. Venice Theatre restoration supervisor Murray Chase noted that a British troupe who had performed in Venice saw storm images in London. What they saw from Venice was, of course, the theatre and having performed in that theatre, they were devastated by it, Chase said. About $3 million has already been spent to bring the theater to its current state which included 266 roof patches and complete electrical rewiring with another $13 to $14 million ultimately required to finish and outfit the facility. The hope is to have the theatre finished by December 2024, with an ambitious goal of reopening in January 2025. 535 days to full recovery That National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster rule of thumb suggests that as of Sept. 28, the hardest hit parts of Sarasota County still have 535 days more than a year-and-a-half until full recovery. The Long Term Recovery Group, run under the auspices of the United Way of South Sarasota County and includes more than 25 nonprofits and agencies. While out-of-area nonprofits like World Renew and Convoy of Hope will play a big part in that recovery, local foundations and familiar faces from the local nonprofit community will play a big part as well. When it comes to things like FEMA they're going to cycle in and out, Johnson said. Long term recovery is just that it takes a while and were still going to be here until the last house gets fixed. So we make sure that everyone is made whole again. All of our local partners are still going to involved the Catholic Charities, the Salvation Army's all of these folks are still going to be here on the ground, no matter what FEMA may do or the other government agencies do were still going to be operating when its done, he added. The groups intent is to help affected families return to normal as soon as possible. Case managers, affiliated with nonprofits such as The Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul Society, Catholic Charities, the United Methodist Committee on Relief and the United Way of South Sarasota County work with people who have signed up for help. More than 57,000 people applied for FEMA assistance in Sarasota County, and more than 11,700 have verified losses. World Renew partnered with the Long Term Recovery Group and assessed more than 280 families in May. In Sarasota County, those assessments identified almost $3.75 million in funding needs. More than $3.1 million of that was identified as construction materials cost, to go along with almost $410,000 in furniture and $215,000 in appliances. Some of the grant applications Ive seen are about all the people who are back in their homes but have no working appliances because of flooding, said Abrahamson, who added that she knows someone who has no appliances and received no insurance payment after a tree went through his roof. Hes still barbecuing his breakfast. You dont think about it if youre not affected by it on a daily basis but for a lot of people life is still significantly different. More Ian numbers FEMAs National Flood Insurance Program has paid $4.3 billion to 45,700 policyholders throughout Florida, including $55.4 million to 1,200 Sarasota County policyholders, $51.2 million to 2,000 in Charlotte and in $10.3 million to 140 policyholders in DeSoto. Figures for Manatee County flood insurance policy payouts were not available. Statewide, FEMA paid for the hotel stays of 4,560 families as they made repairs to their home or looked for permanent housing. In Sarasota, County that involved 123 households, compared with 76 in Manatee, 242 in Charlotte and 49 in DeSoto. The U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved $1.5 billion for homeowners and renters and $405 million to businesses. FEMA has also spent $1.2 billion in FEMA public assistance for state, local governments and certain non-profits in response to Hurricane Ian. In Sarasota County that has amounted to $49.6 million and in Manatee $2.7 million. This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: A year after Hurricane Ian, Sarasota County still works on recovery A Texas woman was kidnapped right outside her home prompting a widespread search by authorities, officials told news outlets. The Stafford Police Department received a distressing phone call of a woman screaming, followed by gunshots at around 6 a.m. on Sept. 27, investigators said at a news briefing streamed on YouTube by KHOU. As the woman was leaving for work, a group of kidnappers grabbed her outside her home, investigators said. Her husband heard screaming and saw her struggling to break away from three men. He rushed to help, but one of the kidnappers pulled out a gun and backed him down, according to investigators. The men forced the woman into her vehicle and drove away, along with a black Ram pickup truck, authorities said. Moments later, the husbands phone rang. A private number was calling and he answered, he told investigators. The voice on the other end demanded money, or they would hurt his wife, officials said. Stafford police reached out to the FBI and the bureaus Houston office stepped in to assist. Investigators began combing through camera footage, searching for the womans vehicle and the black Ram neighbors saw parked nearby at the time of the kidnapping, officials said. A camera captured both vehicles driving through Sugarland, one following the other. Local police deployed drones to search the area and found the womans vehicle, investigators said. It had been abandoned, and there was no sign of the black truck. But investigators discovered the identity of the trucks owner and went to his workplace, officials said. He was no stranger to the woman he is accused of kidnapping, investigators said, he was her co-worker. His address was listed in Galveston, on East Beach. Galveston police were notified and officers began observing the mans home, according to investigators. They saw the black truck and a woman inside of it, tied upwith her head covered. A man was sitting behind the wheel; another was perched behind it; and a third stood away from the others on top of a sand dune, acting as a lookout, per investigators. Officers moved in, rescued the woman and arrested five people, officials said. The FBIs Houston office credited the successful rescue to its crisis negotiators, investigators and linguists, working in cooperation with local authorities. Our highly trained team handled the situation in a way that gave Stafford investigators and Galveston police officers time to locate and physically rescue the victim, the office said in a Sept. 28 Facebook post. The co-worker, his wife, and three other men are accused of kidnapping the woman, according to investigators. They were booked into the Galveston County Jail and are awaiting transfer to Fort Bend County, where the kidnapping took place. Its not clear why the woman was targeted. Stafford is a suburb of Houston, roughly 20 miles southwest of the citys downtown. Man shoots mom, brother to death in kitchen then calls FBI, Pennsylvania officials say Adorable spotted kitten sold in parking lot leads to Texas couples arrest, feds say Man assaults 13-year-old on flight, says shell never see her family again, feds say Accused kidnappers threatened to mutilate teen if his mom didnt pay ransom, feds say Former Trump White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson warned Americans Wednesday that a second term for former President Trump could pose a threat to the country. But I also do not want to sit here and catastrophize a scenario where he is actually the Republican nominee, she said in an interview with PBS NewsHour. I think it is the responsibility of all Americans right now, to have an actual conversation and took to provoke difficult conversations about the dangers of Donald Trump and what I would fear most about second Trump term. Hutchinson came out with her new book titled Enough this week, where she detailed her experiences working in the Trump White House. She described instances of former chief of staff Mark Meadows burning documents in the fireplace in his office and also alleged that Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani groped her during the former presidents Jan. 6, 2021, rally. She said that she did not want to go to Meadows to ask him about the burning of the documents, saying that she was not sure if it would have changed anything. Mark Meadows was a grown man, she said in the interview. And I had a job and my job had a purpose, but my purpose of my job was not to police and control every single one of his actions. Looking back now, should I have said something? Possibly. But would that have changed anything? I dont know. In her Wednesday interview, she also described a suffocating environment during her time in the White House and being aligned to former President Trump. I was actually I was very vocal about that after January 6. And but I also still felt that lingering sense of loyalty to Donald Trump to the administration, but I spent a year and a half, overcoming that. And thats how I ultimately thats really why I decided to write the book is because I wanted people to understand that, she said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. [Source] Hyundai and Kia have reportedly issued a safety recall to owners for some of their older-model cars, advising them to park their vehicles outside over fear that they may suddenly catch on fire. Safety issue: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced in a press release on Wednesday that Hyundai and Kia, which are both part of the Hyundai Motor Group, had issued a safety recall to owners to park their cars outside and away from homes or structures until their get their cars repaired. What causes it: According to the manufacturers, the problem could be caused by the vehicle's anti-lock brake system (ABS) leaking brake fluid internally, which could cause an electrical short, overheating and increase the "risk of an engine compartment fire while driving or parked." While Hyundai is planning to notify owners to take their vehicles to the nearest dealership to replace the ABS module fuse, Kia is reportedly still working on a remedy for the issue. More from NextShark: Japanese pop star Shinjiro Atae comes out as gay during Tokyo performance Car models recalled: The NHTSA noted that the recent safety recall applies to about 1.73 million Hyundai cars with models such as the 2012-2015 Accent, 2012-2015 Azera and 2011-2015 Elantra, to name a few. Meanwhile, 1.73 million Kia cars, with some of the models including the 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2011-2013 Forte/Forte Koup, 2015-2017 K900 and 2010-2015 Optima, to name a few, are also being recalled. Number of cases: According to the NHTSA, neither Hyundai nor Kia know of any crashes, injuries or fatalities associated with the recent safety issues of their vehicles to date. More from NextShark: Texas Gov. Abbott signs bill officially designating Koreatown in Northwest Dallas The transportation agency reported that there had been 21 cases of vehicle fires and 22 thermal incidents, such as visible smoke, burning and melting, for Hyundai cars in the U.S. The agency also noted that Kia only had one engine compartment fire, three fires in the unit and six instances in which components had melted. Similar fire risks: The recent recall came on the heels after Hyundai and Kia reportedly issued a similar warning to 90,000 vehicle owners in August of a possible fire caused by the vehicle's automatic engine start-stop system. In August 2022, Hyundai and Kia also recalled over 280,000 cars over fire risk due to faulty wiring. More from NextShark: Havana Syndrome, the mysterious disease that delayed Kamala Harris' trip in Asia Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark! Neopets hacker steals 69 million accounts and offers them online for Bitcoin McALLEN, Texas (Border Report) The number of migrants being held in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facilities is at its highest level since the coronavirus pandemic began, according to new data. South Texas congresswoman files bill to pay Border Patrol if government shuts down Over 35,500 migrants were detained by ICE as of Sept. 10 the first time the numbers have been that high since the pandemic began in March 2020, the agency reports Detentions by U.S. Customs and Border Protection also are rising, with 25,362 detained in September, up nearly 10% from 23,119 in August, according to Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse (TRAC) of Syracuse University, which tracks U.S. immigration cases and information. New data from Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse of Syracuse University shows the highest levels of migrants in detention since the COVID-19 pandemic began. (TRAC Graphic) Migrant advocates say President Joe Biden needs to lower detention numbers. The number of people in detention is at the highest level under the Biden administration at over 35K more than double what it was when he first took office. Despite Bidens stance against private prisons roughly 90 percent of detention capacity is operated by private prison corporations. This is unacceptable. Simply put, people navigating their immigration case should be able to do so with their families and in community not behind bars in immigration, Silky Shah, executive director of Detention Watch Network, said in a statement. As migrants overwhelm a Texas border city, others wait in Mexico for appointments to enter the US The largest number of migrants are being held at the South Texas ICE Processing Center in Pearsall, Texas, which holds an average of 1,274 per day, TRAC reports. Texas led the nation with migrant detentions in Fiscal Year 2023, which ends on Saturday, according to TRAC data. Nearly 200,000 migrants currently are being monitored under a form of Alternatives to Detention, including 175,000 monitored through the SmartLINK app, and over 10,000 tracked via GPS, according to new data. Sandra Sanchez can be reached at SSanchez@borderreport.com. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. Rapper Ice Spice broke her silence about Matty Healy's previous comments mocking her ethnicity, saying she was "so confused" by the remarks. Healy, the lead singer of the pop rock band The 1975, received backlash after he engaged in behavior some of his followers deemed racist, including laughing at and joining in on jokes mocking rapper Ice Spice while appearing as a guest on The Adam Friedland Show podcast in February. The podcast episode was pulled from Apple and Spotify after Healys fans called the remarks racist. "When I had heard that little podcast or whatever, I was so confused," Ice Spice told Variety in an interview published Thursday. "Because I heard chubby Chinese lady or some s--- like that, and Im like, Huh? What does that even mean? First of all, Im thick. What do you mean Chinese? What? But then they apologized or whatever. And the whole time, I didnt really care." The rapper said she saw Healy at a recent Jean Paul Gaultier party and they discussed the incident. "He was like, Hey, you OK? and Im like, Of course. He apologized to me a bunch of times. Were good," she said. Matty Healy performs with the 1975 at the Leeds Festival (Katja Ogrin / Redferns via Getty Images file) A representative for Healy did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding Ice Spices recent remarks. On the podcast episode, Healy, who is white, described how he slid into Ice Spices DMs and received no response. He can also be heard laughing at jokes that hosts Friedland and Nick Mullen make about Ice Spices ethnicity (Ice Spice is Dominican and Nigerian). He appeared to encourage the co-hosts when they imitated Chinese and Hawaiian accents, and later laughed when the two imitated Japanese accents. In April, Healy publicly apologized to Ice Spice while performing in Auckland, New Zealand. I never meant to hurt anybody, he said. Im sorry if Ive offended you and, like, Ice Spice, Im sorry. Its not because Im annoyed that me joking got misconstrued, its cause I dont want Ice Spice to think Im a d---. I love you, Ice Spice. Im so sorry. In a June interview with The New Yorker, Healy addressed the podcast appearance and said it doesnt actually matter. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com A Canyon County couple was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of felony kidnapping after an Arizona woman reported her juvenile son had been abducted, and police found him a day later in Idaho with the female suspect, according to the Canyon County Sheriffs Office. Following an investigation, Wilder police working with Canyon County sheriffs deputies arrested Matthew Rettkowski, 40, and his wife, Alisha Rettkowski, 34, of Greenleaf, and booked the couple into the Canyon County Jail, the sheriffs office said in a news release. The Canyon County Prosecutors Office charged both suspects with felony second-degree kidnapping Wednesday. A judge set bond for the Rettkowskis at $100,000 each, according to court records. Alisha Rettkowski posted bail and was released later Wednesday, the sheriffs office said. Matthew Rettkowski remained in custody as of Thursday afternoon, according to Canyon Countys online jail roster. Police alleged the married couple developed a plan to kidnap the boy from his mother in Arizona this past weekend. The boy had recently relocated from Greenleaf with his father to live with his mother in Phoenix, the news release reported. The mother called police in Wilder, rural Greenleafs neighboring city, to file the report Monday and accused Matthew Rettkowski of being her sons abductor, the sheriffs office said. The next day, police located the missing boy with Alisha Rettkowski in Nampa, sheriffs spokesperson Joe Decker told the Idaho Statesman, and arrested the couple. The Rettkowskis are scheduled to appear in a preliminary hearing on Oct. 6 in Canyon County Court. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Wilder Police Department at (208) 454-7531 or Canyon County Sheriffs Office at (208) 454-7510. Three Treasure Valley residents have been found guilty of fraudulently taking taxpayer money from federal COVID-19 relief programs intended to keep workers paid and businesses alive. Several others were also convicted. Idahos top federal prosecutor, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit, created a task force a year ago to investigate abuses of pandemic-era economic aid programs like the Paycheck Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan, Unemployment Insurance and Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. Hurwit said in a news release Wednesday that the task force has now criminally charged a dozen defendants and obtained civil judgments against three others. The amount of fraud involved in the cases is over $7 million, he said. According to the release, among those convicted are: 1. The jeweler with no employees Lawrence Sikutwa, 43, of Boise, who was found guilty of bank fraud and money laundering. He filed three fraudulent applications and obtained nearly $338,000 in Paycheck Protection Program loans from two banks Idaho Central Credit Union and Key Bank using the birth dates, Social Security numbers and names of two people he knew, according to court documents. Sikutwa used the money for personal and non-business related expenses and transferred more than $190,000 of it to offshore accounts, the release said. One of the applications was on behalf of a purported Boise jewelry company named Vatugem. The application claimed Vatugem had eight employees and an average monthly payroll of $63,191. In fact, Vatugem had no employees, payroll expenses or leases, according to the indictment. He was sentenced on Sept. 25 to 30 months in prison and five years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $157,976 in restitution to Idaho Central Credit Union, $180,000 to Key Bank and $26,916 to the Small Business Administration. In 2013, when Sikutwa was 34, he was found guilty of submitting false tax returns for a refund, according to a news release at the time from Idahos U.S. Attorneys Office. Federal judge Lynn Winmill sentenced him to 21 months in prison and three years of supervised release. Sikutwa was also ordered to pay $1.47 million in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service. 2. The homebuilder who made up workers Valentin Lapatskiy, 34, of Meridian, was convicted of wire fraud. He filed fraudulent applications for two businesses and obtained $300,000 from the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program by making false claims regarding the businesses gross revenues, cost of goods sold and employees. Lapatskiy is the president of Valdi Homes, a Meridian construction company, according to the Idaho Secretary of States website. The release said he also made fraudulent claims about a limousine company in his wifes name. One of the applications claimed Valdi Homes opened in November 2017 and had four employees with gross revenues of $477,000 in 2019. However, Valdi Homes was first registered as a company in Idaho in July 2020, when Lapatskiy opened a bank account for the business at Idaho Central Credit Union and applied for an employer identification number, claiming the company did not plan to have any employees the following year, according to the indictment. He was sentenced on Sept. 26 to 15 months in prison and two years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $327,594 in restitution to the Small Business Administration. 3. The business owner who wanted her loans forgiven Patricia Pischel, 38, of Star, pleaded guilty to wire fraud. She made false claims about three businesses to obtain five loans under the Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, adding up to $219,409. The fraudulent claims include misrepresenting the number of employees, monthly payroll and wage information included in purported Internal Revenue Service forms. Pischels sentencing is set for Nov. 15. A court order regarding the forfeiture of property in her case indicates shell have to pay at least $126,584 in restitution. Pischel owns Rustic Farmhouse, based in Star. She also owned a business called Rekkd Threads, but it was dissolved nearly a year ago, according to the Idaho Secretary of States website. In an application for a Paycheck Protection Program loan, she falsely claimed that the Rustic Farmhouse had an average monthly payroll of $5,440. She received a $13,600 loan and later requested it be forgiven, saying that the money had been used for payroll and other eligible expenses, according to the indictment. The supposed Internal Revenue Service forms she submitted with the application had never been filed with the agency, and they contained incorrect information regarding total income, salaries and wages for the business. Another loan application Pischel submitted falsely claimed Rekkd Threads was established in April 2019 and had 17 employees with an average monthly payroll of $39,726. According to the Idaho Secretary of States website, the business was established in June 2020. She received a $99,315 loan and again requested it be forgiven. We will not rest until we have done everything in our power to seek justice against those who took advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic to line their pockets through fraud, Hurwit said. How an Eagle resident peddling a marijuana company was caught in a massive scam St. Lukes takes new steps to get money owed by Ammon Bundy. Judge considers order Weeks of absolute hell: Treasure Valley residents rankled by contractor accused of fraud With California gas prices again ticking upward, Republican lawmakers have written a letter to Gov. Gavin Newsom , urging him to call a special session of the Legislature in order to suspend the states gas tax. Gas prices are once again soaring, and Californians are paying $2 more per gallon than the rest of the country. Drivers are spending more than $100 each month just on gas. This elevated energy cost cuts into familys already strained budgets, the letter, signed by every Republican state lawmaker, begins. GOP lawmakers want Newsom to call a special session to temporarily suspend the states 58-cent-per-gallon tax on fuel. Immediate relief is needed. California is an energy island with isolated resources which makes our state reliant on foreign imports if more domestic production is not allowed, the letter continues. Last year, Newsom declared that there would be a special session to get to the bottom of the states high gas prices, and to explore the possibility of a tax on oil company windfall profits. That bill passed and was signed into law last March. Part of that bill established a Division of Petroleum Market Oversight, which earlier this month released a report attributing rising gas prices to Russias war on Ukraine, a decrease in California-produced oil supply due to refinery outages and maintenance, and a gasoline market transaction that resulted in a 50-cent spike. With prices again near record highs, Californians are rightfully upset as current policies are not working, the letter reads. The letter is unlikely to achieve its goal. Legislative Republicans have tried, unsuccessfully, on several occasions to force a vote on suspending the gas tax. Each time, the Democratic supermajority squashed the effort. Newsom on Wednesday evening directed the California Energy Commission to evaluate a potential gas price gouging penalty and asked the Division of Petroleum Market Oversight to provide proposals on market reforms by the beginning of 2024. Oil companies are ripping you off, and were going to get to the bottom of it. Big Oil cant hide anymore, Newsom said in a statement provided to The Bee. By Zarir Hussain and Rupam Jain GUWAHATI/NEW DELHI (Reuters) -At least 10 people were injured on Thursday when Indian security officials used tear gas and batons to disperse protesters trying to storm the home of the chief minister of Manipur state, defying a curfew, a senior police officer said. Another police official said the situation was "extremely tense" after armed mobs on Wednesday vandalised an office of the ruling political party and hurled petrol bombs at two police sites. Ethnic violence has plunged the northeastern state bordering Myanmar into what many security experts describe as an intense civil war fought over land, jobs and political clout between its two largest local groups. Neither N. Biren Singh nor his family members were present in the house in the state capital Imphal at the time, the senior police officer in Manipur said. "The situation is volatile ... People are violating curfew orders and we are compelled to use force to stop them," the officer said on conditions of anonymity. Authorities declared the indefinite curfew in Imphal and some areas of Manipur after more than 80 students were injured on Wednesday in clashes following protests against the alleged abduction and murder of two students. Mobile internet services have been suspended in the state for five days. Since the violence first erupted on May 3, more than 180 people have been killed and over 50,000 have fled their homes in Manipur. More than half the state's population of 3.2 million belongs to the Meitei community, while the Kuki community, who make up about 43%, live mostly in the hills. The two students, whose their bodies were found this week after they went missing in July, were from the Meitei community. The students' families and Meitei leaders have accused Kuki militants of killing them, and criticised authorities for failing to end the violence. The chief minister, from Prime Minister Narendra Modi 's party, denounced the suspected murder and vowed maximum punishment for the culprits. Leaders of the opposition Congress party have accused the Modi government of failing to control the violence in a state governed by his nationalist party. Modi's government says efforts to restore peace through dialogue are being pursued. (Writing by Rupam Jain; Editing by Clarence Fernandez and Alison Williams) A screenshot shows police at the scene of the looting in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. FOX 29 Philadelphia An influencer used Instagram to livestream people looting stores in Philadelphia on Tuesday night. In the livestream, she could be seen laughing, cheering, and shouting, "Free iPhones!" The influencer, known online as "Meatball," was arrested mid-livestream and charged with six felonies. An influencer who filmed herself laughing and cheering as people looted stores in Philadelphia on Tuesday night has been arrested and charged with six felonies. Dayjia Blackwell, who is known as "Meatball" online, was among the people who congregated near stores in Philadelphia's city center on Tuesday night, where crowds were spotted leaving the Apple Store with stolen iPhones and iPads, The Philadelphia Inquirer reported. People also looted the nearby Foot Locker, Lululemon, and liquor stores, the newspaper said. Blackwell was one of 52 people that John Stanford, the interim Philadelphia police commissioner, said had been arrested in an X post. Speaking to 6ABC Philadelphia, Stanford said: "She is livestreaming as she is committing burglaries and encouraging others to commit burglaries." Police said she led a "caravan of looters from store to store," 6ABC reported. Stanford said at a press conference that officers were already downtown due to a protest against the decision to drop all charges against a former Philadelphia police officer who was arrested in the fatal shooting last month of Eddie Irizarry during a traffic stop. After the protest disbanded, a group of young people congregated in the city center, with some starting to loot stores in the area, he said. Stanford said the thieves were "criminal opportunists" who piggybacked on the anger surrounding the case. Blackwell, who has more than 189,000 followers on Instagram and nearly 500,000 followers on TikTok, livestreamed on Instagram as people looted the stores. The New York Post reported that she shouted "Free iPhones" repeatedly in one part of the video. At other points, she laughed or cheered on the crowds. In another part of the livestream, which was shared on social media, Blackwell said: "Tell the police they either lock me up tonight or it's going to get lit it's going to be a movie." She was arrested mid-livestream. Her mugshot appears to show her with tears on her cheeks. Blackwell was charged with six felonies and two misdemeanors, including burglary, conspiracy, riot, and criminal use of a communication facility, The Philadelphia Inquirer reported. In a series of Instagram Live stories on Thursday morning, Blackwell said: "I never been through nothing like that ever in my life. I don't even know what happened. I need some sleep. I'm scared, I'm traumatized." In response to a request for comment from Insider, Blackwell simply responded: "This me I'm home hey." Read the original article on Insider The Capitol is seen late Tuesday night, Sept. 26, 2023, in Washington, as lawmakers work to advance appropriations bills on the House floor. The Republican-controlled House and the Democrat-controlled Senate are starkly divided over very different paths to preventing a federal shutdown. | J. Scott Applewhite, Associated Press The prospect of a government shutdown has become almost inevitable in the minds of the countrys members of Congress. According to U.S. representatives in the middle of spending talks on Capitol Hill, attempts to fund the federal government beyond Saturdays fiscal deadline are appearing more unlikely as a handful of House GOP holdouts empowered by the partys narrow majority demand steep spending cuts from Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy or refuse to support any short-term funding bill. Im not very optimistic about avoiding a shutdown, Utah Republican Rep. John Curtis told the Deseret News Wednesday. While Republicans are mostly united over cutting congressional spending with $33 trillion in debt and frustration over last-minute votes on massive spending bills they disagree over which tactics are effective in bringing about change to annual spending negotiations. The challenge within the Republican conference is not whether we ought to reduce spending. Its how much and how fast, said Idaho Republican Rep. Mike Simpson, who sits on the powerful House Appropriations Committee, in an interview with the Deseret News on Wednesday. Despite McCarthys best efforts to negotiate a short-term funding package containing budget reductions and border security provisions, a small group of House Republicans, mostly belonging to the House Freedom Caucus, have doubled down on opposing continuing resolutions whether from the House or the Senate in an attempt to return the appropriations process to regular order. But, without some sort of compromise, gridlock and shutdown is all that can be expected. In my opinion, there will probably be a government shutdown for at least a few days, maybe a week, maybe two weeks, Simpson said. I dont know how wed get it all done by Saturday night at midnight. A tale of two chambers and two continuing resolutions Following a week characterized by dysfunction, the House succeeded in passing a rule Tuesday allowing the chamber to move forward on four of the 12 annual spending bills in advance of a vote on a temporary funding measure scheduled for Friday. This last ditch effort to avoid a shutdown would likely resemble the deal negotiated last week, Simpson says, which would extend funding until Oct. 31, at slightly less than FY 2023 levels. The earlier deal, which never received a floor vote, included an 8% cut in discretionary spending across all government agencies excluding disaster, defense and veterans agencies and included provisions from the Secure the Border Act. Curtis said this would have been a huge win for conservatives and would have served as much needed leverage in countering a Senate proposal. He hopes the conference can pass the four spending bills currently on the floor agriculture, defense, homeland security and state-foreign operations to show good faith that we can get the 12 done and increase the chances of 218 Republicans backing a temporary funding bill this weekend. However, Curtis is skeptical that any attempts to placate the partys right wing will work. I think based upon whats happened in the last few days, we could put any policy they wanted in the world in that (continuing resolution) and they wouldnt support it, Curtis said. A consistent cast of conservative congressmen has said as much. Related The Senate advanced its own continuing resolution, on Tuesday, which has faced opposition from some Senate Republicans, including Utah Sen. Mike Lee, who disagree with the inclusion of billions of dollars of support for Ukraine. Absent unanimous consent, however, a final vote on the bill will be delayed until Sunday, after a shutdown has already begun. And even if the Senate were to pass the bill, Republicans in the House have signaled it would be dead on arrival. I do not trust anything coming from a Democrat-led Senate. I cant see myself buying into anything theyre doing because everything they do will strip away the things we want to accomplish, Utah Republican Rep. Burgess Owens told the Deseret News on Wednesday. Owens, who said he would absolutely support a House GOP resolution, notes a Senate-produced bill would almost certainly be a clean continuing resolution, leaving spending at 2023 levels, a non starter for most House Republicans. Over the coming days, the Houses goal will be to flip the script, Owens said, saying Senate Democrats are not prioritizing American interests if they refuse a funding measure tied to border security legislation. I see it this way, whatever we present is going to have to go to the Senate, and the Senate will make a decision on whether they want to shut down the government versus shut down the border. Were saying, Shut down the border, lets continue this process of making sure our government runs well, Owens said. Strategic differences Simpson, who has represented eastern Idaho since 1999, agrees with the Freedom Caucus goal of returning to single-issue spending bills, which was the standard previous to the mid nineties. He says breaking down the appropriations process by category, with time to debate and amend each bill separately, allows for greater input from members of Congress and tends to prevent irresponsible spending. However, he believes the demands of the conferences most outspoken holdouts are unrealistic cutting too much too fast and ensuring a painful shutdown. A shutdown is never good policy or good politics, and as Ive said many times, Republicans are gonna get blamed for it no matter what, Simpson said, explaining how federal employees, including military members, and businesses that rely on federal oversight, would be greatly impacted by a shutdown. Thats just the reality. And some of these members need to recognize that. In recent weeks, members of the House Freedom Caucus, and others, went beyond the spending constraints secured during Mays debt ceiling deal to demand next years spending levels fall below those of 2022. This has resulted in dramatic cuts that would be devastating to western states because they would gut the budgets of the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, Simpson said. McCarthy has also agreed to cuts that would affect lower-income individuals who rely on federal government subsidies in housing, food and energy. Related But little of this will matter in the end, Simpson said, because any spending bill passed by the House will go to the Senate, which will attempt to undo much, if not all, of the Republican cuts. The unwillingness of some of his colleagues to consider what can survive a process of bipartisan compromise makes their proposals unrealistic and all but ensures a protracted shutdown, according to Simpson. I dont know what their final objective is, is the problem. I know that they want to cut spending, and they want to do it dramatically. I want to reduce spending, I just think you have to make it at a slower process, and make reasonable adjustments in reducing spending, Simpson said. Curtis also said a continuing resolution should be contingent on a return to some semblance of regular order, where appropriations bills are worked through one at a time, but says House Republican holdouts are overplaying their hand and will end up with a worse deal than if they were open to some degree of pragmatic compromise. Unlike his colleagues, Owens expressed optimism about the debates among House Republicans as well as the ability of his conference to avoid a shutdown. We still have to work through some things, obviously, but our conference is getting closer to being on the same page as we move forward, he said. We have different interests, different districts theyre supporting and they have to represent, but we all have the same endgame. Speaker McCarthy, the only man for the job? While some project the next step is likely the passage of a continuing resolution in the Senate, which would probably then be rejected by the House, leading to an extended shutdown, Curtis said it is just as likely that House Republicans pass their own resolution to send to the Senate, or that a group of House Republicans and Democrats join forces to circumvent the speaker to advance a proposal the Senate will accept. Either way, Its near impossible to see how this plays out, he said. Curtis doubts the eventual bipartisan agreement will put McCarthys speakership at risk, saying theres a growing awareness hes the only man for the job. Nobody can come up with a name of somebody who could do this better than Kevin is doing it, Curtis said. And I think that has actually made his seat just a tad bit more secure. Owens said the most important thing is for House Republicans to put their differences aside to make sure the American people are looked out for, that were protecting them, allowing us to have more time to have to discuss this process, and then get through more appropriations (bills) and then allow the process to continue from there. Whatever the outcome of coming days and weeks, however, Simpson said the process is bound to keep repeating itself until substantive procedural changes the kind sought by GOP holdouts are secured. When Simpson entered office, he said, the House passed its annual spending bills during a July appropriations season. This was followed by a reconciliation of House and Senate proposals by congressional staffers in August so that both chambers could amend and vote on final versions in September long before a continuing resolution, or government shutdown, came knocking. I want to get back to that. I will tell you, every appropriation member wants to get back to that. But that means we have to have floor time in order to pass these bills, Simpson said. It takes some time. But the leadership has to give us the time on the floor to pass these. Inter Miami season-ticket holders received renewal information for the 2024 season via email on Thursday and within minutes some fans were expressing shock and outrage on social media about the price increases. Individual game ticket prices skyrocketed when Argentine star Lionel Messi joined the team in July, and season ticket prices are following suit. In most cases, the prices have doubled. The cheapest season ticket in 2023 was $485 in the north stands, which came to $28.50 per game for 17 home games. That same section will cost $884 in 2024, which is $52 per game. There is a discount for fans who renew early by Oct. 7. A $3,600 ticket in the lower-level midfield club section for the current season is now going to cost $7,650, or $450 per game. Those seats include access to a lounge area with premium food and beverage options. Premium loge packages are being advertised at $42,840 to $45,900. By comparison, the average NFL ticket in 2022 was $112, with season tickets ranging from $300 to $4,500 for eight home games. The average NBA ticket was $94, with NBA season ticket packages ranging from $1,200 to $82,000 or $30 per game to $2,000 per game for 41 home games. Season ticket holders who want to switch to a cheaper seat can do so and get priority for other sections. 2024 Inter Miami Season Ticket prices Inter Miami CF Although Inter Miamis new ticket prices are in line with other U.S. pro sports, some fans were not happy. This is so disappointingpricing out the supporters that were part of your club BEFORE Messi and the casual influx is such a bad look, wrote one fan with Twitter handle @vetchy_. Those are the people who should be rewarded and get to enjoy this new era. Horrible. There should at least be some kind of loyalty reward that freezes the ticket price for existing season ticket holders from the pre-Messi era, wrote James Nalton. If existing season ticket holders cant afford to renew, Inter Miami know someone will take their place and pay the new higher price because Messi is there now. A pretty rubbish thing to do to existing fans. The email from the club read: As a Valued Season Ticket Member, you are the Heartbeat of Inter Miami CF. We thank you for your continued support over the previous seasons and the unforgettable 2023 season! Some of the highlights include bringing world super stars Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, seeing some of the young talent develop and make amazing plays as in the case of Benjamin Cremaschi, David Ruiz, and Noah Allen, as well as deep runs in the US Open Cup and bringing the first trophy in Club history, Leagues Cup. As we look to continue elevating our Club to new heights alongside our loyal supporters, we are excited to announce your 2024 Membership Information! Season ticket packages include access to exclusive member only events including Annual Futbol Fiesta, open practices, member only watch parties, discounts at the team store and concessions, and priority access and pricing to other events at DRV PNK stadium. Nearly 100 dogs were rescued Friday in Iowa when officials discovered an apparent puppy mill during a routine welfare check at a licensed breeder. A deputy conducted a welfare check on Sara Stanfield, a woman who was missing at the time, and saw many neglected dogs in what looked to be a puppy mill, according to a Boone County Sheriff news release. Stanfield is connected to the Paris Puppies Paradise breeding facility but authorities don't know the extent of her involvement in the degraded condition of the facility, Boone County Sheriff Andrew Godzicki shared. Dogs rescued Friday from Boone County, now in the care of the Animal Rescue League of Iowa The facility owner cooperated with authorities and agreed to surrender approximately 93 dogs, according to the release. However, some dogs remain at the site and the owner continues to cooperate with authorities. 'Welcome to freedom': Beagles rescued from animal testing lab in US get new lease on life in Canada 'The dogs were living in their own feces and urine' Animal control authorities were called in along with representatives from the Boone Area Humane Society and the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. "When we arrived the smell hit us before we even entered the buildings," the ARL wrote in a Facebook post. "The dogs were living in their own feces and urine, including some pregnant mamas and newborn puppies. Many of the dogs were matted and some incredibly thin." The ARL carried the dogs one by one to clean crates and quickly set up temporary housing to meet the unexpected influx of dogs as most their kennels were already full, the post states. The ARL's medical team also gathered large supplies to care for each dog. The Boone County Sheriff's Office is currently investigating the case and no determination on criminal charges has been made as of Wednesday. A representative for the sheriff's office told USA TODAY said no animals were forcibly taken from the owner. with insight from the Department of Agriculture. Officials visited the facility again later for a follow up inspection and saw conditions improved. Pet rescuers ask for help to care for puppies Dogs rescued Friday from Boone County, now in the care of the Animal Rescue League of Iowa "When the dogs arrived, our teams worked into the evening to make sure they were all cared for and comfortable," the ARL post said. "These dogs are now safe, but with such a large number coming in at once, we cant do this alone." ARL's team has set up temporary housing to help with the new wave of dogs. In a post, officials wrote that the dogs are safe, but that the team needs help with funding to care for them. Donations can be made through their website, arl-iowa.org, or via Venmo, @ARL-Iowa. What are puppy mills? The Humane Society defines a puppy mill as an "inhumane, commercial dog breeding facility in which the health of the dogs is disregarded in order to maintain a low overhead and maximize profits." These breeders often sell puppies at pet stores, online or directly to consumer at flea markets, according to the Humane Society. How many puppy mills are there in the US? The Humane Society estimates that at least 10,000 puppy mills exist across the country. Of these nearly 3,000 are regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The organization added that most puppy mills are legal, with 16 states not having any laws relating to them. Why do dogs suffer in puppy mills? Dogs living in puppy mills are treated like cash crops according to PAWS. The animals living in these conditions often suffer or die due to: Malnutrition or starvation due to insufficient or unsanitary food and water Receiving little or no veterinary care even if they are sick or dying Solely living in overcrowded cages with minimal shelter from extreme weather Adult animals are also often bred repeatedly until they can no longer produce more and are then discarded, Paws reports. Broadway the cow: Maine community searching for a pet cow who's been missing nearly a week This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Nearly 100 dogs rescued from apparent puppy mill in Iowa U.S. Rep. Zach Nunn says the United States shouldn't provide Ukraine with any new taxpayer money as Congress negotiates a funding deal to avert a likely government shutdown this week. Instead, he supports seizing frozen Russian assets and using those dollars to help the war-torn country. "I dont think that any taxpayer should have to dig in their pocket to defend somebody elses border if we cant first defend our own," Nunn said. "And so I dont see more money going to Ukraine from taxpayer dollars being the solution." More: Iowa's Zach Nunn says Senate short-term spending bill likely DOA in House as shutdown nears Nunn, a Republican who represents Iowa's 3rd Congressional District, told the Des Moines Register in an interview Wednesday that funding for stopping unauthorized crossings at the U.S. southern border "needs to be one of the top priorities" for Congress as it approves legislation to fund the government. His comments come as the U.S. is days away from a likely federal government shutdown on Oct. 1, which would result in thousands of federal employees being furloughed while some employees deemed essential continue working without pay until the shutdown ends. Two of the sticking points in negotiations are aid for Ukraine which President Joe Biden and the Democratic-led Senate have called for and funding for U.S. border security, which is a priority for the Republican-led House. On Tuesday, the Senate advanced a bipartisan bill that would keep the government funded for six weeks and provide Ukraine with about $6 billion in new aid. The bill has not yet received a final vote. Meanwhile, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has said border security funding should be included in any funding deal and aid for Ukraine should be considered separately. More: Iowa Democrats say Republicans 'playing political games' while government shutdown looms Zach Nunn says U.S. should use seized Russian funds to aid Ukraine Nunn said the United States should instead seize Russian assets frozen after the country invaded Ukraine in 2022 and use that money to help Ukraine. "Theres $300 billion of Russian frozen assets in U.S and European banks that can be seized today in the same way weve done with terrorists after 9/11 that can be used to rebuild Ukraine," he said. Nunn has introduced a bill to do so, called the Protect Taxpayers and Defeat Russia Act. "While I believe that Russia must be stopped and punished, with American families hurting, sending even more money to Ukraine to help them rebuild their economy is not a good use of our tax dollars," Nunn said in a Sept. 26 news release. While running for Congress last year, Nunn said there needed to be "oversight" of any U.S. aid for Ukraine. Aid for Ukraine has divided Republicans in Congress and candidates for the 2024 presidential race. During the first presidential primary debate in August, candidate and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy raised his hand to say the United States should stop providing aid to Ukraine. "We are protecting against an invasion across somebody elses border when we should use those same military resources to prevent across the invasion of our own southern border here in the United States of America," Ramaswamy said. Other candidates, including former Vice President Mike Pence, have said America needs to continue its role as "the arsenal of democracy." "Anybody that thinks that we cant solve the problems here in the United States and be the leader of the free world has a pretty small view of the greatest nation on Earth," Pence said in the debate. Stephen Gruber-Miller covers the Iowa Statehouse and politics for the Register. He can be reached by email at sgrubermil@registermedia.com or by phone at 515-284-8169. Follow him on Twitter at @sgrubermiller. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Zach Nunn says he opposes sending new taxpayer dollars to aid Ukraine The Noor-3 satellite launched on board the Qased rocket on September 27, 2023. Iran claims it has successfully placed a third imaging satellite in orbit, a move that will likely garner more criticism from the Western world over fears that the Islamic republic is bolstering its ballistic missile technology. Irans Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Force launched the Noor-3 satellite on board its three-stage Qased rocket, local media reported. The launch took place on Wednesday from an undisclosed location. The U.S. Space Force tracked two objects that were consistent with a launch from Shahrud, Iran around 2:00 a.m. ET, according to astrophysicist Jonathan McDowell from the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. Read more Noor 3 was launched to the current altitude of Noor 2, not its original altitude, McDowell wrote on X. The two sats are in roughly the same orbital plane, suggesting they may work together. In contrast, Noor 1 was already on its way to reentry when Noor 2 was launched. Following the launch of Noor-1, the U.S. claimed that Irans satellite defies a United Nations Security Council resolution which calls on the regime not to undertake any activity related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weaponsincluding launches using ballistic missile technology, according to a statement issued in 2020. Earlier in 2019, the U.S. imposed sanctions on Irans space agency. With the launch of its third satellite to orbit, things are bound to escalate between the U.S. and Iran, especially as the Western world fears a growing alliance between Iran and Russia. For more spaceflight in your life, follow us on X (formerly Twitter) and bookmark Gizmodos dedicated Spaceflight page. More from Gizmodo Sign up for Gizmodo's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Iran may agree a missile deal with Russia after UN Security Council Resolution 2231, which bans such deals, expires on 18 October. Source: Institute for the Study of War (ISW) Details: Ukrainian and Israeli intelligence reports indicate that Russia is seeking to acquire Iranian Fateh-110 and Zolfaghar ballistic missiles, both of which have a range of 300 kilometres or more. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu visited the Iranian stand at a military exhibition in Moscow in August, during which Iranian officials showed him various Iranian missile systems, including the Zolfaghar. On 19 September, Shoigu visited Tehran to discuss strengthening bilateral defence and military cooperation with Iran. IRGC Aerospace Force Commander Brigadier General Amir Ali Hajji Zadeh took Shoigu on a tour of Iran's arsenal of drones, missiles and air defence at the IRGC Aerospace Force Headquarters in Tehran on 20 September. Shoigu also discussed the expiry of UN Security Council Resolution 2231 missile restrictions with Iranian Defence Minister Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Ashtiani. 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! Iranian naval ships repeatedly shined a laser at a US Marine Corps helicopter on Wednesday. No one was injured, but the US Navy slammed the incident as "unsafe" and "unprofessional." The incident comes amid high tensions between the US and Iran around the Middle East. Iranian naval forces repeatedly flashed a laser at a US Marine Corps attack helicopter flying above Middle Eastern waters, the US Navy said on Thursday, as tensions between the two countries remain high across the region. A spokesperson for US Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) said at around 7:30 p.m. local time on Wednesday, vessels belonging to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN) pointed a laser several times at the AH-1Z Viper helicopter while it was conducting "routine operations" in international airspace above the Arabian Gulf. NAVCENT said the incident did not cause any injuries or damage to the aircraft, but slammed the incident as dangerous and reckless. It's not the first time that Iranian ships have pointed lasers at US military aircraft, which could potentially interfere with the pilot's vision and lead to an accident. "These are not the actions of a professional maritime force. This unsafe, unprofessional, and irresponsible behavior by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy risks US and partner nation lives and needs to cease immediately," Cmdr. Rick Chernitzer said in a Thursday statement. "US naval forces remain vigilant and will continue to fly, sail and operate anywhere international law allows while promoting regional maritime security." The helicopter is assigned to the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit and attached to the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan, which is in the middle of a deployment to the region to counter an uptick in Iranian harassment incidents over the past few years. Iran's Guard Corps a hardline force that reports directly to the country's supreme leader, and which the Trump administration labeled a terrorist group have repeatedly harassed, attacked, and seized internationally flagged commercial vessels transiting Middle Eastern waters. US Navy officials have routinely slammed these incidents as a threat to maritime security, and in an attempt to deter this behavior, the Pentagon dispatched an assortment of fighter jets and warships to bring extra firepower to the region. "These additional forces provide unique capabilities, which alongside our partners nations in the region, further safeguard the free flow of international commerce and uphold the rules based international order, and deter Iranian destabilizing activities in the region." Gen. Michael Kurilla, commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM), said in July. Several weeks later, in early August, over 3,000 US sailors and Marines from the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group and 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit arrived had arrived in the area. The high tensions between the US and Iran exist on land, too. American troops stationed in Iraq and Syria found themselves engaged in deadly exchanges of fire with Iran-backed militias earlier this year, which experts say reflects Tehran's desire to gradually expel Washington's forces from the region; the Guard Corps plays a key role supplying and training these militias outside of Iran. White House National Security Council Spokesperson John Kirby told reporters last week that although there's been a "significant decrease" in the attacks on US troops by Iran-backed militias, Tehran still continues to harass commercial shipping in waters off the coast of the Middle East. Overall, Kirby said, "they continue their destabilizing behaviors." Read the original article on Business Insider BELGRADE, Serbia Iranian defense officials were livid at some of the organizers of the Partner 23 arms fair here about the placement of their colossal stand: Tucked away in a separate pavilion, shared primarily with Russias weapons export agency, who would come look at Tehrans offerings of drones and missiles? That was the gripe Iranian delegation members strongly voiced at a Serbian government-sponsored defense exhibition that brought together some of the Wests most prominent foes in Europes backyard. The event, which ran Sept. 25-28, also featured large European contractors like Airbus, plus a smattering of other defense entities ranging from countries like Italy to Azerbaijan, making for an unusual grouping of political adversaries under the banner of selling weapons. Placed center stage on Irans setup were anti-ship cruise missiles, air defense systems and small-scale prototypes of the M6, Karrar and Shahin drones. Models included the AD-75 air defense missile with a maximum range of 75 kilometers; the CM-35 anti-ship cruise missile with a 130 kg warhead; and Shahin vertical take-off and landing unmanned aerial system fitted with multi-rotor propellers by China-based company T-Motor. The towering setup of 16 weapon systems dwarfed the neighboring stand of Rosoboronexport, whose sparse display suggested the delegation had come empty-handed. Some of the only visible items shown by the Russian group were a video of the Barrier-2, an electronic-scanning radar to detect drones, and a large picture of the Pantsir missile system. This is at odds with what Rosoboronexport had said it would be showcasing in a statement released two days prior to the fair. Given the high interest of the world market in the unmanned aerial vehicles, the Orion-E and Orlan-30 reconnaissance drones will be on display at the companys booth; it will also present the Su-35, MiG-35 fighters, Yak-130 combat trainer, and more to air force representatives, Rosoboronexport stated on its website. A Russian representative here blamed the meager showing on logistical problems in transporting the equipment to Belgrade. Iran has helped supply Russia with ammunition and drones to support the invasion of Ukraine, as Moscows stocks are reportedly dwindling. Earlier this summer, the European Union imposed a new set of sanctions against Tehran that prohibits bloc companies from exporting drone parts to the repressive regime. A Defense News reporter was told by fair organizers here that the layout of the event was arbitrary, and that the Russian and Iranian exhibitors were placed in a separate hall only because that space was newly added to the display space of an increasingly popular event. The Iranians were still highly miffed, complaining that the isolation resulted in next to no visitors coming to see their systems. In an outburst of anger on the second day of the event, Iranian delegates declared that their defense ministry perhaps wouldnt have booked the space had they known about the layout. Contributing to their protest was the fact that for a scheduled meeting with an undisclosed Serbian company, the host-nation executives had not shown up. According to the Iranians, Tehrans shopping list included navigation systems for guided artillery. Commanders typically use those munitions for targeting military vehicles or high-value assets like command posts or reinforced structures. Friends and relatives attend the funeral of people who died in a fire during a wedding ceremony in Hamdaniya, Iraq, Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2023. A fire that raced through a hall hosting a Christian wedding in northern Iraq has killed around 100 people and injured 150 others, and authorities warn the death toll could rise. (AP Photo/Hadi Mizban BAGHDAD (AP) Iraq's prime minister on Thursday visited injured patients and the families of victims in northern Iraq days after a deadly wedding fire killed around 100 people, as two more people died from their injuries and additional remains were recovered. Mohammed Shia al-Sudani arrived in Nineveh province early Thursday with a delegation of ministers and security officials, state television reported. He met with the wounded and family members of victims at Hamdaniyah Hospital and Al-Jumhoori Hospital. He later visited the Syriac Catholic Mar Behnam Monastery to express his condolences to victims. Around 250 panicked guests surged for the exits on Tuesday night in the Haitham Royal Wedding Hall in the predominantly Christian area of Hamdaniya near Mosul after the ceiling panels above a pyrotechnic machine burst into flames. Two critically burned victims a 30-year-old woman and a 4-year-old child died from their injuries in the hospital, a health official told The Associated Press on Thursday. The remains of a child and a woman were also recovered under the rubble at the wedding venue, according to a security official. Both officials spoke on condition of anonymity in line with regulations. Authorities said around 100 people died in the incident, and the death toll is expected to rise further with at least 100 other people still injured, many of them critically burned. The venue's owners have been accused of violating safety protocols. The Mosul Municipality on Wednesday called for the closure of hotels, restaurants, and other venues that don't have safety approvals or have ignored warnings. Funeral processions continued Thursday at the Saint Behnam Syriac Catholic Church. A video circulating on Iraqi media and social media showed the bride and groom among the crowd mourning. The Interior Ministry said highly flammable building materials contributed to the disaster and accused the owners of violating safety and security protocols. The tragedy was the latest to hit Iraqs Christian minority, which has dwindled to a fraction of its former size over the past decade. A security official told the AP that one of the venue's owners and 13 workers and employees are currently under investigation. The official said that negligence caused the incident and that the government is preparing to compensate survivors and the families of victims. He speak on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the press. A government spokesperson said the authorities will conduct strict inspections of hotels, schools, restaurants and event venues to make sure they are complying with safety standards. One owner of the venue, Chonny Suleiman Naboo, told The Associated Press that an electrical fault caused the fire and denied that they had neglected safety procedures. ___ Chehayeb reported from Beirut. The Israeli Supreme Court on Thursday heard challenges to a law raising the legal threshold that is required to remove a sitting prime minister from office. Pool Photo by Menahem Kahana/UPI Sept. 28 (UPI) -- Israel's Supreme Court began hearing arguments challenging a controversial law that raises the legal threshold that is required to remove a sitting prime minister from office. The law in question before the High Court of Justice was widely seen as an effort by the hardline government to insulate Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu while he was on trial for corruption. In exchange, he promised to refrain from any interference in judicial proceedings pertaining to his legal case. Opposition party members have called on the court to dismiss the country's Incapacitation Law, which was passed after Netanyahu's latest rise to power in late 2022 in an effort to limit the court's power to remove him from office. The law allows for a prime minister to remain in power unless declared incapacitated due to a mental or physical health issue. As the hearing began Thursday, coalition leaders in Netanyahu's government accused the high court of interfering with Netanyahu's election win by agreeing to take up the challenge to the law. The law in question before Israel's High Court of Justice was widely seen as an effort by the hardline government to insulate Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu while he was on trial for corruption. File Photo by Debbie Hill/ UPI The court's 11 justices previously indicated they were leaning toward approving an amendment to the law, but would also postpone its final enactment until the next election to prevent Netanyahu from using it to stay in power. "The hearing being held today in the court is in practice a hearing to cancel the results of the elections," Justice Minister Yariv Levin said Thursday in the Knesset. "The meaning of postponing the applicability of the Incapacitation Law is that an official, no matter how senior, can take for themself the authority, which was never given to them, to debate the ridiculous possibility of declaring a prime minister incapacitated in complete opposition to the results of the elections ... They failed at the ballots and are now requesting to cancel the results of the election." The court's 11 justices previously indicated they were leaning toward approving an amendment to the law, but would also postpone its final enactment until the next election to prevent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from using it to stay in power. Pool Photo by Menahem Kahana/UPI After taking office in late 2022, Netanyahu enacted a number of hardline policies that have increased tensions with the United States while increasing instability in the region. The case comes after Netanyahu introduced a controversial proposal to overhaul the country's judiciary earlier this year, which sparked massive protests across the country. Meanwhile Thursday, attorneys for Netanyahu defended the law, and warned that delaying its implementation would "leave open the option of a head-on collision between the branches of government, the option of the trampling of the Knesset." Cabinet members also continued to voice support for Netanyahu's ongoing upheaval efforts and blasted the court for working to diminish his power to do so. "The people had their say in the election, and officials cannot cancel the choice of the people," said Finance Minister Bezalel Smotritch. "Judges cannot cancel basic laws, and they definitely cannot invent for themselves or for the attorney-general the authority to dismiss an elected prime minister. This is the truth, and the rest is a terrible and invalid show." The legal controversy comes more than a week after President Joe Biden met with Netanyahu in New York for the first time since tensions first emerged over Netanyahu's efforts to overhaul Israel's judiciary. The two leaders reaffirmed their bond over democratic values, vowed to improve Middle East relations and planned to meet again in Washington, D.C. following months of strained relations due to the hardline crackdown by Washington's main ally in the Middle East. Israelis protest against plans by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government to overhaul the judicial system and in support of the Supreme Court ahead of Thursday's pivotal hearing, in Jerusalem, Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. The hearing over a law that makes it more difficult to remove Netanyahu from office deepens a rift between the government and the judiciary amid months of turmoil in Israel. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg) JERUSALEM (AP) Israels Supreme Court on Thursday heard a challenge to a law that makes it harder to remove a sitting prime minister, which critics say is designed to protect Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu , who has been working to reshape the justice system while he's on trial for alleged corruption. The hearing, which lasted eight hours, was part of several pivotal court challenges against a proposed package of legislation and government steps meant to alter the countrys justice system. It comes after months of turmoil in Israel over the plan and deepens a rift between Netanyahus government and the judiciary, which it wants to weaken despite unprecedented opposition. Thursdays hearing on the law, the second by the High Court, took place in front of an expanded 11-judge panel, underscoring the importance of the deliberations. Netanyahus governing coalition Israels most religious and nationalist ever passed an amendment in March known as the incapacitation law, which allows a prime minister to be deemed unfit to rule only for medical or mental health reasons. Under the amendment, only the prime minister or the government has the power to determine a leaders unfitness. The previous version of the law was vague about both the circumstances in which a prime minister could be deemed unfit, as well as who had the authority to declare it. But experts say the amendment expressly strips the attorney general, who historically wields the power to declare a prime minister unfit for office, of the ability to do so. Critics say the law protects Netanyahu from being deemed unfit for office over claims that he violated the conflict of interest agreement by dealing with the legal overhaul while on trial for corruption charges. They also say the law is tailor-made for Netanyahu and encourages corruption. Thursdays hearing focused on the question of when the law should take effect. Netanyahus lawyer argued that the law's implementation shouldn't be postponed, even though the prime minister is standing trial for corruption. But the petitioners argued that if the law wasn't postponed until the next parliamentary election, it would present a conflict of interest. The lawyer for Israels parliament, Yitzhak Bart, admitted that the amendment was motivated, at least in part, by Netanyahus personal dilemma. But he stressed that the court should focus on the general effect of the law, rather than the motivation behind it. A ruling is expected by January. We are trying to repeal the undemocratic and unconstitutional statute which allowed an unfit and improper prime minister to remain in his position, said Eliad Shraga, chairman of the Movement for Quality Government in Israel, a good governance group which is challenging the amendment. They built him a kind of a golden cage so that he will be protected from justice. Netanyahus lawyer, Michael Rabello, asked the court to uphold the amendment and implement it immediately. He argued that the Supreme Court doesn't have the authority to strike down the amendment because it's one of Israels Basic Laws major pieces of legislation that serve as an informal constitution, which Israel doesn't have. The court itself has never struck down that type of legislation. Doing so would thrust Israel into uncharted territory. Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara has told Netanyahu he was violating a conflict of interest agreement, but hasn't indicated that she might move toward declaring him unfit over that. Dozens of protesters gathered outside Netanyahus private residence in Jerusalem before the hearing, chanting democracy, while his allies defended the law. Simcha Rothman, a main driver of the overhaul, told Israeli Army Radio that the courts decision to hear the case was harmful to Israeli democracy, and challenging the law was akin to throwing out the results of a legitimate election. The moment the court determines the laws, then it is also the legislative branch, the judiciary and the executive branch, he said. This is an undemocratic reality. The government wants to weaken the Supreme Court and limit judicial oversight on its decisions, saying it wants to return power to elected lawmakers and away from what it sees as a liberal-leaning, interventionist justice system. The first major piece of the overhaul was passed in July and an unprecedented 15-judge panel began hearing arguments against it earlier this month. The drive to reshape Israels justice system comes as Netanyahus trial for alleged corruption is ongoing. He's charged with fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes in three separate cases involving influential media moguls and wealthy associates. He denies wrongdoing, seeing the charges as part of a witch hunt against him orchestrated by a hostile media and a biased justice system. Experts and legal officials say a conflict of interest arrangement struck after Netanyahu was indicted is meant to limit his involvement in judicial changes. After the incapacitation law was passed, Netanyahu said that his hands were no longer tied and that he was taking a more active role in the legal changes underway. That sparked a rebuke from Baharav-Miara, who said Netanyahus remarks and any further actions were completely illegal and in conflict of interest. Critics say Netanyahu and his government are working to upend the countrys delicate system of checks and balances and setting Israel on a path toward autocracy. The overhaul has plunged Israel into one of its worst domestic crises, deepening longstanding societal divisions between those who want Israel to be a Western-facing liberal democracy and those who want to emphasize the countrys more conservative Jewish character. Netanyahu has moved forward with the overhaul despite a wave of opposition from a broad swath of Israeli society. Top legal officials, leading economists and the countrys booming tech sector have all spoken out against the judicial changes. The reforms have sparked opposition from hundreds of military reservists, who have said they won't serve as long as the overhaul remains on the table. Tens of thousands of people have protested every Saturday for the last nine months. ___ Tia Goldenberg reported from Tel Aviv. Julia Frankel contributed to this report from Jerusalem. Geolocated footage published on Sept. 26 and analyzed by the Institute for the Study of War indicates that Ukrainian forces advanced near the village of Orikhovo-Vasylivka, located 11 kilometers northwest of Bakhmut, Donetsk Oblast. Additional geolocated footage published on Sept. 26 indicates that Russian forces likely no longer control a roughly one-kilometer-long trench line west of Verbove (16 kilometers southeast of Orikhiv in Zaporizhzhia Oblast). "The absence of Russian forces in this trench line could facilitate further Ukrainian advances in this area, as this trench line is no longer a significant obstacle for Ukrainian forces," the ISW said. Verbove is mere 18 kilometers east from Robotyne which Ukrainian forces said they had taken as they continued pushing east toward the village of Novoprokopivka in Zaporizhzhia Oblast at the beginning of September. Ukrainian authorities said they expected battles for control of high ground to the south and east of the village as they approached the next layer of Russian defenses. General Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, the commander of Ukraine's military fighting in Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia oblasts, recently said that there will be good news in the Zaporizhzhia operational direction and noted that Ukrainian forces are steadily advancing but did not provide additional information. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine sends letter to G7 on use of Western parts in Shahed drones Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The Jacksonville Sheriffs Office has said that the department discovered field-testing kits for cocaine indicated false positives. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< In a statement released by JSO, during a drug investigation in the Duval County pre-trial detention facility, a narcotics detective found that multiple over-the-counter substances were indicating false positive results on Scott Company Presumptive Field-Testing Kits. The substances that were tested were not cocaine. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] In response to the detective alerting the department, all police officers immediately stopped using any of the field-testing kits. JSO also said that it notified partners at the State Attorneys Office for the Fourth Judicial Circuit of Florida concerning the identified false positives. Earlier today, SAO leadership notified the Chief Judge for the Fourth Judicial Circuit of Florida and members of the local criminal defense bar of JSOs discovery, JSO said in a written statement. READ: New body camera footage shows aftermath of Ponte Vedra triple stabbing According to the sheriffs office, JSO has used Scott Company Presumptive Field-Testing Kits for cocaine for over a decade without indication of any issue pertaining to efficacy and reliability. These kits were exclusively used as presumptive field tests, not for evidentiary purposes at criminal trials, JSO said. JSO utilizes other test kits for other controlled substances. The sheriffs office does not believe that the faulty field-testing kits will have an impact on current or past criminal cases. JSO is working with local prosecutors to identify any pending cases that may be impacted by yesterdays false positive discovery, JSO said. Because these kits are merely presumptive field tests, not used as evidence in criminal trials, there is no retrospective concern pertaining to disposed criminal cases. Law and safety expert Dale Carson previously worked for the FBI and now works as a defense attorney. He said that a false positive can leave a permanent stain on a persons life. The person now has a criminal record for a felony arrest and there is no way to remove that arrest from the system ultimately, Carson said. READ: Clay County Sheriffs Office is looking for the parents of a child that was found at hotel [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Carson explained the substance is taken to a Florida Department of Law Enforcement lab. It takes 30 days to receive the results. So even if the person is innocent, they will have to suffer the consequences. The individual who has been identified improperly with a bad field test for contraband is either in custody or theyve had to pay a substantial bond to a bail bondsman in order to get out of custody, Carson said. Action News Jax spoke to CEO of Scott Company, Ian Scott about the faulty field-testing kits. He said that they found out about the issue on Thursday morning and they are running diagnostic tests on all of the substances. Scott also added that this is not the first time theyve had false positives and that this is the nature of the beast. JSO said these kits were exclusively used as presumptive tests, not for evidentiary purposes at criminal trials. Carson said despite this, an arrest has a lasting effect. As soon as youre tagged with an arrest -- not necessarily a conviction, but an arrest -- you are denied employment and opportunity in a massive way for the rest of your life, Carson said. In a statement released by the Communication Director of the State Attorneys Office, 4th Circuit: Following a meeting this morning with law enforcement, we became aware that field test kits for cocaine have resulted in false positives. We immediately informed the Public Defenders Office, Regional Conflict Counsel, the Chief Judge, and local Criminal Defense Bar of this development. We are conducting a thorough review of cases potentially implicated to determine what actions need to be taken moving forward to address this issue. 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. Move over, Nero. Rome is burning, so why not fiddle around with some extremist, evidence-free attack on a president? Could House Oversight Chair James Comer, R-Ky., have possibly picked a worse time to launch an evidence-free impeachment inquiry than days before a government shutdown? Could any political stunt better illustrate childish partisan prank-making at a time when we could use some adults in the House? It's all about distraction. "Don't look over there, where a New York judge just ruled that the Trump Organization is liable for fraud," says the carnival barker. "Looky here, we've got some right-wing opinion bloviators coming to testify against Joe Biden." "They can speculate about why there might be evidence somewhere down the line. But finding it? That's not their department." Never mind. There will be soundbites for Fox News and an opportunity for Comer to grift for dollars based on presidential guilt by association with his son. Need a timely example? On Tuesday, House Republicans released emails showing that in July and August 2019, Hunter Biden and his business partner, Devon Archer, received two money wires from China totaling $260,000. The listed address was Joe Biden's home in Delaware. Comer called it "Joe Biden's abuse of office." Fact: The wires were sent to Hunter Biden, not his dad. There's not a speck of evidence that Joe Biden had anything to do with the wired funds. Fact: Devon Archer testified under oath in August to Comer's committee that he had no knowledge of any wrongdoing by Joe Biden. Let's stipulate that Hunter Biden and Archer did business in China. Let's even stipulate that Hunter Biden has struggled with addiction and substance abuse and may have shamefully tried to cash in on his last name. Do we now tar presidents with the brush of an impeachment inquiry before we have a single fact that they profited from any abuse of office? Republican after Republican has admitted that there is no evidence connecting Joe Biden to the questionable business dealings of his son. U.S. Rep. Jason Smith (R-MO) melts down as an NBC reporter questions GOP claims of DOJ political interference in favor of Joe Biden before he was president. pic.twitter.com/Afm75G5CDq Heartland Signal (@HeartlandSignal) September 27, 2023 On Sept. 17, Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, admitted on Fox News that "we don't have the evidence" to support impeaching President Biden. On Sept. 12, it was Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., who said Republicans needed clear evidence of a high crime or misdemeanor, not just an assumption there might be one. The day before, it was Rep. Dave Joyce, R-Ohio, telling Forbes he was "not seeing facts or evidence at this point" that would lead to an impeachment inquiry." Last month, Rep. Nick Langworthy, R-N.Y., admitted to a Fox News hoost: "[W]e've never claimed that we have direct money going to POTUS." The goal is obvious. With a Trump criminal conviction in the 2024 forecast on charges of trying to overturn the last presidential election, the former president's allies have heeded his demands to start an impeachment inquiry or "fade into OBLIVION." Facts be damned. It's the smell of an investigation that counts. Remember when we learned, months after Trump's post-election efforts to overturn it, what he had told Jeffrey Rosen, his acting attorney general? "Just say the election was corrupt and leave the rest to me and the Republicans." So Republicans once again trot out Jonathan Turley, the law professor and paid Fox News contributor whose contributions are conspiracy theory and revisionist history. Recall that in 2020, even Fox News host Steve Doocy debunked Turley's promotion of the Dominion voter fraud conspiracy theory, which claimed that ballot-counting equipment in Michigan had switched "thousands of votes" from Trump to Biden. Last month, Turley claimed on Fox News that in Trump's infamous phone call to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger on Jan. 2, 2021, the then-president was "just making the case for a recount." You can scour the transcript of that call and never find Trump using the word "recount." You will find Raffensperger telling Trump that Georgia had already done a machine count, a hand tally and a recount. Nice try, Professor. Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course. Comer is also calling forensic accountant Bruce Dubinsky. Presumably, that's because last month he described on Fox News some payments from a Russian oligarch to Hunter Biden and Archer, speculating about why they might have used shell companies. He didn't say a single word about any connection between those payments and Joe Biden. The third witness is former Trump transition team member Eileen O'Connor. It's not clear what she'll testify about, though if you want to learn about her, watch her on this Federalist Society webcast entitled, "The dictatorship of woke capital." Or you can check her LinkedIn page, where she recently reposted a video of a line of dark-skinned men marching across parched ground and this accompanying statement: If this doesn't stop QUICKLY, then the ENTIRE USA will be INVADED with MILLIONS of Military aged men, from MANY different countries who are ready to cause total HAVOC while getting paid $2200 a month in welfare to do so. The MAGA circus has come to town and partisan 2024 politics has taken over the center ring. Meanwhile, the federal government is on course to shut down next week. Businesses large and small will be hurt as government payments to contractors halt. Members of the military and civil servants, many of whom live hand to mouth, will lose their paychecks. One group of government employees will not: members of the U.S. Congress. On the Republican side, Comer has vowed to keep his inquiry going even if the government shuts down. Fat and happy, House Republicans apparently don't mind engaging in pure theatrics while the curtain falls on ordinary citizens. It's best to focus our attention where facts matter, like a New York judge's historic ruling Tuesday, based on ample evidence, that Trump is a fraud. The House impeachment inquiry without facts is just another fraud on the people, compliments of the greatest political huckster in American history. Baltimore Acting Police Commissioner Richard Worley speaks at a news conference with law enforcement and city officials about the arrest of Jason Billingsley on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, in Baltimore, Maryland. AP photo/Brian Witte Police said they were tracking the man accused of killing a Baltimore tech CEO days before her death. Jason Billingsley was arrested Wednesday in connection to the killing of 26-year-old Pava LaPere. Before her death, police had linked Billingsley to a separate attempted murder, arson, and rape case. The man accused of killing a Baltimore, Maryland, tech CEO was already being tracked by police in the days before the young entrepreneur's death in connection to another violent crime, but he managed to evade capture, authorities revealed on Thursday. Jason Billingsley, 32, a convicted sex offender with a violent criminal history, was arrested by law enforcement late Wednesday in the Maryland city of Bowie. Police said he was the sole suspect in the killing of 26-year-old Pava LaPere and a separate September 19 attempted murder, arson, and rape case. In the LaPere case, Billingsley was charged with first-degree murder, assault, and reckless endangerment, court records show. And in the September 19 case, he was charged with attempted murder, rape, arson, burglary, and several other charges, according to the records. It was not immediately clear on Thursday whether Billingsley had retained an attorney. LaPere, the founder and CEO of the startup EcoMap Technologies who recently made it on the Forbes 30 under 30 list, was found dead on Monday with signs of blunt-force trauma at the Baltimore apartment building where she lived, and police now say investigators believe she was likely killed on Friday night. Baltimore Police Department acting commissioner Richard Worley said on Thursday during a press conference that authorities had quickly identified Billingsley as the suspect in the September 19 incident which happened several miles away from where LaPere was killed and were surveilling him since September 20. But it still took several days for police to arrest Billingsley, even after a plea from his mother to turn himself in. Police even listened to old phone calls Billingsley made in jail to try to find him In the days before LaPere was killed, police were tracking Billingsley's phone, looking at his financial transactions and social media, surveilling his known addresses, and even listening to old calls from his time in jail, Worley said. "There were several instances in which we were able to track a close proximity of his location, however, he was still able to elude," Worley said. The police official added that the initial press conference this week about LaPere's death was delayed because authorities "were within about 88 meters of capturing the suspect, but he was able to elude our capture." "We knew early on that the risk was when we went public, that the suspect would go underground, which is exactly what he did," Worley said. Billingsley "basically left the location he was at" as soon as the press conference in which police announced a warrant for his arrest in the killing of LaPere happened, Worley said. Worley said police didn't initially go public in naming Billingsley as a suspect in the September 19 attempted murder, arson, and rape case, in part, because "it was not a random act" and said the suspect was "familiar" with the victims in that case. "At that time, we did not believe that he was committing random acts," Worley said of the suspect. "We think he committed a targeted act on the victims that he victimized that day." Police don't think LaPere and Billingsley knew each other Pava LaPere. EcoMap Technologies In the case of LaPere, police have said that investigators don't believe Billingsley and LaPere knew each other and haven't yet released a possible motive. Worley said he wouldn't "speculate" on whether LaPere's death could have been prevented, and insisted that authorities didn't make any mistakes. "If we made a mistake, I'd tell you we made a mistake," Worley said. "I don't think we made a mistake in this case." Worley said that as soon as police realized the suspect "had committed an act that seemed to be random that we still don't know connections there yet," authorities put out a wanted poster identifying him. "We put the flier out and, just as we thought, as soon as he saw the flier, he tried to elude capture and turned off all devices we were able to track him on," Worley said. Authorities said Billingsley was taken into custody late Wednesday without incident. LaPere's family 'relieved' by the suspect's arrest LaPere's family said in a statement on Thursday that they were "relieved to know" that the suspect accused in LaPere's killing "can no longer hurt other innocent victims." "While this doesn't change that Baltimore lost one of its most passionate, influential fans, our efforts remain focused on remembering and celebrating Pava Marie her life, successes, and legacy," the family added. The family also thanked law enforcement for their "tireless efforts" throughout the investigation and the arrest of the suspect. Meanwhile, a friend of LaPere's told Insider that the young woman's "unexplainable" killing has left those who knew LaPere in a state of shock. "It's the shock of feeling that she didn't do anything to deserve this," Karina Mandell said. "She was doing literally the opposite, she was helping the world, she threw her life into helping the city from sunrise to sunset." Mandell, an employee with Baltimore's economic development agency who met LaPere in 2018 at a Maryland networking event organized by LaPere, said that her friend was striving to make the world a better place. "She was passionate and intense and driven," Mandell said. "We lost such a light in our community." Read the original article on Insider A pivotal election is underway in Durham, with voters set to choose a new mayor and fill three City Council seats this fall. There are 12 people competing for the City Council seats, including two incumbents. A primary is being held to narrow the field. Early voting in the primary runs through Oct. 7 and Primary Day is Oct. 10. The top six candidates will proceed to the general election in November. Terms last four years. The seats are at-large, which means candidates can live anywhere in the citys. We collected questions from residents across Durham to help readers get to know the candidates. Javiera Caballero Name: Javiera Caballero Age: 45 Occupation: City Council member Website: javierafordurham.com Are we paying people competitively and keeping our promises to our workers? - East Durham resident Aidil Ortiz The City of Durham has nearly 3000 workers solid waste workers, parks and rec folks, police officers and firefighters, office administrators, and many more who make our city run. Were a fair wage employer and I voted to raise wages for all workers by 6-8% this year, but we need to do more. I want to make sure that our city is a competitive employer vis-a-vis the private sector and other municipalities. Im working to make sure that every city worker gets a bonus this fall, and that the workers who are paid the least receive the highest bonuses. I also am committed to raising wages significantly next year. Our market pay study, which has already started, will help our citys finance team make sound decisions about how to raise wages with our next budget and for the long term. Do you have any experience that helps you understand development in Durham? How do you plan to get more affordable units in the city? - Planning commissioner Zuri Williams My experience as a city councilmember, a renter, a homeowner, and a community advocate all give me an understanding on development in Durham. Since joining Council in 2018 Ive been a leader in shaping our $95 million affordable housing plan, Forever Home Durham. Ive won new affordable housing units for low-income families, seniors and people with disabilities. Ive also put funding into shoring up existing affordable units and public housing. In my next term I will work to fund even more affordable units with a new, larger affordable housing bond. Ill also continue to make sure that private developers are offering as many affordable units as possible by negotiating directly with them and offering incentives. As Durham grows more dense, how do we get away from the classic American model of car-oriented development? Are there any policies that you support that can keep us from becoming another Atlanta or Dallas? - Downtown resident Nirav Patel We can do a lot to move away from car-oriented development. First, we need to change our development and zoning rules so that we can build more densely. Were updating Durhams Comprehensive Plan through extensive community engagement. From there well be able to update our joint City-County Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) so that we can build differently and allow for more density, especially in our core neighborhoods. I also want to increase funding for our local transit system, Go Durham. We must also expand our bike and sidewalk networks. Finally, its essential to keep working with our regional neighbors to build an affordable and reliable regional transit system, using bus rapid transit and rail. What policies do you support for implementing safer streets and reducing car dependency locally and regionally? - Stadium Heights resident Nick Roberts Ive been a leader on Vision Zero, our goal to have zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries. The City has a strong Vision Zero plan but has had no staff member to implement the plan. This year I asked for and won funding for a Vision Zero coordinator so we have a dedicated staff member at the City who is focused on safer streets. I have also worked since the start of the pandemic to make sure that our Go Durham buses are fare-free. Were expanding our routes so that more people can use the bus instead of their car to get to and from work and school. As a Council liaison to the Metropolitan Planning Organization I will keep advocating for both a strong local transit system in Durham and robust regional transit options across the Triangle so that residents have the safe, car-free connectivity we deserve. What will you do to support the mental health needs of everyday Durham residents, especially thousands of young people in our public school systems? - Hillside High School senior Isaiah Palmer I am committed to ensuring that every Durham resident can access the care they need, especially our youth. In my time in office, Ive been a leader on mental health crisis response. I worked with community leaders to develop the Community Safety department and pilot the HEART program, Durhams unarmed crisis response program. HEART provides excellent support and de-escalation services. This year I voted to expand HEART citywide, and Ill work to make it 24/7. In my next term, I want to make sure the City partners closely with our County and Durham Public Schools to increase mental health supports for youth. This could include new after-school activities, keeping our rec centers open later and on weekends, and new job training programs so that every young person feels a sense of hope and possibility about their future. I am excited to work with young people to create these programs. In your vision for the city, what role does public education play and how does that connect to economic development, public safety and community health? - Fayetteville Street corridor resident Erika Wilkins As a mom of three Durham Public Schools students and a proud supporter of public schools, public education plays a vital role in our city and for civic life. Our goal should be that Durham kids go to school together instead of being separated by race and class in a patchwork of public, charter, and private schools. The city, county, and DPS need to do a better job aligning our initiatives and programs that support our youth. We have made tremendous progress through our joint City/County Office on Youth and programs like YouthWorks. But, we must work more closely together to make sure we are offering more youth programming, access and connection to different types of supports including mental health support, and ensuring kids know as they reach adulthood, they have access to jobs that pay well and training to be qualified for them. I think this will help many of our kids know they can have a different future. On the subject of alleged Clean Water Act violations in Falls Lake and its tributaries: How did we get here and who should be held responsible? Who is going to pay for the creek restoration and environmental damage? - Southeast Durham resident Pam Andrews The developer, Clayton Properties, didnt follow sedimentation rules set out in our joint City-County Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). As a result theyre being sued for multiple and consistent violations. If found guilty they should pay any creek restoration that is needed as a result of their actions. How have you seen Durham evolve in your time here and whats one thing youll have the power to change if elected? - The News & Observer My family and I moved to Durham 13 years ago because we were priced out of our previous city. In my time here Durham has become both more expensive but it has also become more diverse. There are many things that we need to keep improving on, but our General Assembly preempts City government on many issues, from raising the local minimum wage to inclusionary zoning. One place where we have moved the needle, and where I will continue to do so, is on community safety. So many of our community safety efforts are locally funded. In my time on Council I have helped to start and expand HEART, our unarmed crisis response program. In my next term I want to expand the types of 911 calls that HEART can respond to so that residents are getting the support we deserve. I also want to create a civilian traffic unit pilot. This will allow our police officers to focus on violent crime rather than low-level traffic issues. To find polling places and full details on voting, visit the Board of Elections at dcovotes.com or 919-560-0700. The citron is an unusual fruit. It's an ancient citrus varietal, one that's lumpy, wrinkly and somewhat oblong. You won't find it in most grocery stores. It's not a La Croix flavor. It isn't showing up on many cooking shows. But it is special. For thousands of years, the citron has been a part of the Jewish holiday of Sukkot. A vital element of the tradition, the fruit is held while reciting a daily blessing during the weeklong harvest celebration, which this year begins Friday at sundown. For the last 40 years or so, many Jews in America have been celebrating with citrons grown by a single large U.S. supplier: Lindcove Ranch. To cultivate this esoteric fruit, the San Joaquin Valley farm complies with various Jewish agricultural laws and gets every relevant approval from a kosher supervision service. A citron grows on a tree at Lindcove Ranch. When mature, the fruit is yellow. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) Greg Kirkpatrick, who operates the Exeter, Calif., farm, is not Jewish. He's Presbyterian and he hasn't been to church lately. This year, though, he's been tested like a figure from the Bible Old Testament, New Testament, take your pick. On a recent weekday afternoon, Kirkpatrick eyed a row of spindly citron trees whose branches were supported by a network of trellises and twine. He fingered a waxy shoot. Kirkpatrick, 62, wasn't pleased. Far from it. As head of his family's specialty citrus farm, Kirkpatrick has dutifully tended to this crop. Despite those efforts, the trees thrown out of whack by the epic rainstorms that throttled this part of California starting in January were not cooperating. By March, they should have been covered in flower buds. There were none. "That's when I started to worry," he said. After two more agonizing months, the still-dormant trees forced Kirkpatrick to consider a dark and increasingly likely possibility: a year with no harvest. The prospect filled him with existential dread. "I had a full identity crisis over that," he said. Finally in charge after 20 years on the farm, Kirkpatrick could now understand what his late father must have felt when he weathered the tough times that any family operation faces. The sense of responsibility. The anxiety. The angst. Kirkpatrick just needed the trees to do their part. Would they? Among Jews, a citron is known as an etrog, the fruit's Hebrew name. Ahead of Sukkot, they can cost more than $100 apiece, owing in part to their rarity and the stringent rules that govern their cultivation and use. (Sample dictate: To be deemed kosher for Sukkot, an etrog must be free of any major blemishes no insect nibbles allowed.) Greg Kirkpatrick uses a magnifying glass to check for any minute blemishes on a citron. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) In a typical year, Lindcove Ranch's business partner, the Lakewood, N.J.-based etrog distributor Yaakov Rothberg, would visit the farm over the summer to inspect the citrons. Using a scale that tops out at 7.7 a quirk befitting the byzantine etrog ecosystem Rothberg and a few colleagues grade the fruit, taking into account each citron's size, color and overall aesthetics. (Generally, the bumpier the better.) Sensing calamity, Kirkpatrick had summoned Rothberg to the farm in May. They walked the rows of barren citron trees. Rothberg remembers what he was thinking on that day: "We're done." "I've been doing this for decades," he said, "and I've never seen anything like it." Citrons are Lindcove Ranch's biggest income-producing crop, accounting for about a third of its annual revenue. With 14 employees working only 35 acres among the smaller self-sustaining commercial farms in the valley's citrus belt the facility heavily depends on the etrog business. In turn, a vast web of retailers and wholesale buyers were counting on an allotment of Lindcove Ranch citrons. And there was another stressor: Kirkpatrick was grieving. In late February, amid the cascade of rainstorms, the farmer's father, John Kirkpatrick, died at the age of 92. He'd started Lindcove Ranch with his wife, Shirley, more than 50 years ago. He's the one who plunged the farm into the etrog business decades ago. "Straight-up mensch" is how Rothberg described the lifelong Presbyterian of Scottish descent. Read more: What's an L.A. Jew to do on Yom Kippur if they don't go to synagogue? Kirkpatrick said that at the time of his father's death, the biblical deluge was seen as a blessing not a harbinger of crisis. "We didn't really even know, at that point, what the impact was going to be," he said. "It was great; we were getting rain!" A citrus gambit So how does a family of Presbyterians from the Central Valley wind up growing a niche citrus fruit that has been part of the Jewish tradition going back millennia? Big Ag. John Kirkpatrick, who'd established Lindcove Ranch in the mid-1960s, had for years been a grower of lemons, oranges and other fruit. But the increasing industrialization and consolidation of citrus farming made it harder to compete with larger enterprises, Greg Kirkpatrick said. It was an out-of-the-blue telephone call from a part-time etrog importer named Yisroel Weisberger in 1980 that would change the course of John Kirkpatrick's life and give his farm a new vitality. Weisberger asked Kirkpatrick if he could help him find a grower to cultivate citron trees. "And I said, 'I think you're talking to him,'" Kirkpatrick told California Bountiful, which is published by the California Farm Bureau Federation, in 2018. "I saw it as a challenge." Farming citrons did turn out to be quite challenging, said Shirley Kirkpatrick, 88. For starters, she said, "We just thought they would probably grow like lemons." (They were wrong.) But over time, the Kirkpatricks learned to tend to the trees, whose branches must be secured to trellises, lest the heavy fruit pull them to the ground. When Rothberg, who is Weisberger's brother-in-law, took over as Lindcove Ranch's distributor in the mid-'90s, he brought consultants from Israel to help improve the operation, which now grows five citron varieties. Still, there were tough times, Shirley Kirkpatrick said, including a 1990 freeze that wiped out the whole crop. "A couple of times, John would say, 'I think we are going to quit,'" she said. "And Yaakov would say, 'You can't!'" But the difficulties they faced contending with uncooperative weather, decoding obtuse Jewish agricultural law ensured that "we were the only ones who could do it" in the U.S., Shirley Kirkpatrick said. "There were a few wannabes along the line, but ... they didn't make it." There are some small citron farms scattered across the country they typically grow the fruit for its use in candy, marmalade and liqueur. (Lindcove Ranch sells citrons with cosmetic defects to makers of these products.) Eventually, around 2000, John and Shirley Kirkpatrick made plans to bring their son into the business. Greg Kirkpatrick was then working for American Farmland Trust, an agricultural organization dedicated to conservation. The job was fulfilling: In 2002 he helped establish a four-mile-long farmland security perimeter in Madera, Calif., protecting the area from development in a clash that was covered by The Times. But, in 2003, his father called the family together Kirkpatrick has two siblings for a momentous meeting. It was then, Greg Kirkpatrick said, that he was tapped to one day take over Lindcove Ranch. The process wasn't complete until John Kirkpatrick's passing. Read more: There's a hidden crisis among California's rural kids. Would this teen make it? It hadn't always been easy working for his father, Greg Kirkpatrick said. At times, the patriarch wasn't inclined to relinquish control. At the end of his life, though, he told his son what he needed to hear. "He said, 'It is all yours, you're ready to do it. Take the reins,'" recalled Kirkpatrick, growing emotional. "That was very important to me." 'Gratitude to God' Kirkpatrick has, over the years, learned a good deal about Judaism. Especially Sukkot. Jews mark the holiday by building temporary huts where they eat their meals, and sometimes even sleep, throughout the celebration. The dwelling, known as a sukkah, is meant to call to mind the impermanent shelters of the Israelites as they wandered in the desert for 40 years, because what would a Jewish holiday be without a little ennui? Still, Sukkot is a joyous occasion, one that is centered on four plant species: the myrtle, willow, citron and date palm, whose frond is known as the lulav. Each represents a different part of the body and "the etrog is the heart," said Rabbi Asher Brander of LINK Kollel, an Orthodox congregation based in Los Angeles' Pico-Robertson area. The four species, he said, represent "the totality of a human being who is coming and expressing gratitude to God." Joel Rembaum, rabbi emeritus of Temple Beth Am, a Conservative synagogue on La Cienega Boulevard, said that Jews seek out aesthetically pleasing etrogim that's plural for etrog as a way to beautify "a divinely ordained religious practice." Rabbi Avrohom Teichman inspects a citron at Lindcove Ranch. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) "It is not to outdo the person next door," he said. "It is the beautification of the mitzvah a recognition of the beauty that God provides." As part of Sukkot, the four species are held while saying a daily blessing except on Shabbat that is an expression of the holiness of the holiday. During the ritual, the four items are shaken in six directions: north, south, east, west, up and down. Rabbi Susan Goldberg of Nefesh, a transdenominational congregation that offers Shabbat services in Echo Park, said that "when you are holding the lulav and etrog, you remember we are an ancient people very much connected to the Earth." Kirkpatrick knows at least some if not all of this. He's held the four species in his hands. He's said the Hebrew blessing. As he learned about Judaism, Kirkpatrick picked up the lingo and a very particular way of saying it. Some Orthodox Jews of Ashkenazi descent speak a version of Hebrew influenced by Yiddish that renders a T sound as an S. When, for example, Kirkpatrick talks about an etrog, he calls it an "esrog." Hearing a scruffy farmer of Scottish stock speak Hebrew words like a black-hat-wearing rabbi from the Old Country illustrates the cultural exchange taking place at Lindcove Ranch. While not a Jew, Kirkpatrick said that he feels a strong spiritual connection to Judaism. "How can you not when you have thousands of Jews praying for you on Tu B'Shevat?" said Kirkpatrick, referencing the Jewish holiday that celebrates trees. "[They're] praying for a beautiful esrog for you. You feel that." He needed those prayers this spring. The harvest, finally One day in late May, Kirkpatrick went to inspect one of his citron orchards. The farmer, who moves among the trees and tangled weeds with a sure-footedness that approaches grace, spotted something unexpected. Flower buds. There was elation. Then, a realization. It wouldn't be a "full bloom," Kirkpatrick said. Some trees that had produced hundreds of citrons a year earlier didn't make any fruit at all "complete blanks," he called them. But it was enough to warrant a harvest. "We can't just let it go by the wayside," said Kirkpatrick. The harvest began in August, about a month behind schedule. The crop was too small and too late to justify a trip from Rothberg and his colleagues to inspect the citrons at the farm and assign them grades. That work, which can enhance the value of the most aesthetically pleasing fruit, would instead be done in New Jersey. By this time, Kirkpatrick and Rothberg had already decided to purchase citrons from a farm in Israel where most of the world's major etrog growers are located to ensure they'd have enough to honor commitments to their customers. That foreign fruit would supplement the citrons from Lindcove Ranch. It was a tough monetary decision, but it had allowed them to hedge in case the harvest didn't work out as expected. Greg Kirkpatrick, with his dog Ella, drives through Lindcove Ranch. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) Kirkpatrick knew in mid-September that he would be able to hit the production numbers he'd forecast for Rothberg. The harvest amounted to about 30% of last year's haul, he said. The business operates on a consignment model, with Lindcove Ranch getting a cut of each etrog Rothberg sells. "We will pay back all of our expenses and have a little bit left over," Kirkpatrick said. There was at least one unalloyed positive: The fruit, Kirkpatrick said, was the highest quality produced by Lindcove Ranch in many years. The citrons lengthened to a desired shape, and they had a waxy shine. What did he attribute the strong results to? "My dad," Kirkpatrick answered. He said this with a laugh. But it didn't seem like a joke. An 'inflection point' On a mid-September day that would reach 94 degrees, Rabbi Avrohom Teichman, clad in slacks, a dress shirt and tie, stood amid Lindcove Ranch's citron trees and admired the fruit that he'd selected. Once back home in Lakewood, N.J., the rabbi would distribute the citrons to family. He hadn't chosen any of the big honkers that Kirkpatrick said can fetch $1,000 apiece. The etrogim were ensconced in a foam case that had been designed by Kirkpatrick to offer maximum protection to the fragile fruit. The most delicate part of an etrog is its pitom, an easily broken protrusion on one end of the fruit that is a remnant of the flower bud from which it grew. (If a pitom falls off naturally and it often does the etrog is still kosher; if it is otherwise removed, forget about it.) Rabbi Avrohom Teichman, left, examines a citron picked by farmworker Mari Castaneda at Lindcove Ranch. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) The rabbi wasn't just at the farm to shop. He was on hand to observe an important task: the transfer of citron cuttings from small plastic sleeves to larger containers so they could continue to grow. Even as the harried harvest continued, Kirkpatrick paused that work to perform this essential undertaking, which had been engineered by Lindcove Ranch to speed up a natural process. It takes five or or six years before a citron tree grown from seed produces usable fruit. But a tree that grows from a cutting taken off another will bear citrons in about three years. That's an especially convenient duration, because Jewish law dictates that etrogim must come from trees that are more than 3 years old. Younger fruit, known as orlah, may not be picked. The delicate cuttings, taken in early August, spent about a month in a greenhouse. "They are little babies so they need special treatment," said Teichman, 77, the rabbinic administrator of Kehilla Kosher, a nonprofit that provides kosher supervision services. Read more: How two friends sparked L.A.s sushi obsession and changed the way America eats To comply with orlah rules, Teichman said, the cuttings must never be "disconnected from the ground" during their transfer. If they were placed on, say, a linoleum floor before being replanted, the three-year waiting period would have to be restarted. Teichman needed to confirm that the cuttings were properly transferred without losing their connection to the earth. He also had to check the would-be trees' lineage each had a small label that detailed its extraction to make sure they had "a pure pedigree." As Teichman looked on, a few farmhands gingerly coaxed the cuttings out of the plastic sleeves, exposing young roots tangled in clods of soil. They were then placed in new, larger containers. Greg Kirkpatrick, left, prepares to transplant a citron tree cutting under the watchful eye of Rabbi Avrohom Teichman. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) One of the workers, Mari Castaneda, said that she'd never even seen a citron before starting at Lindcove Ranch last year. The work is better and more interesting than harvesting grapes, she said. Along the way, she's learned a bit about Judaism. "I knew nothing about it before," Castaneda said. These young cuttings, which numbered about 350, would eventually replace the farm's original section of citron trees, Kirkpatrick said. They were ones that had been planted by his father many years ago. "This," said Teichman, "is called an inflection point." Come summer 2026, these trees should provide Jews across the U.S. with etrogim for Sukkot. The rabbi watched the laborers for a while longer. He was satisfied with their efforts. It was time for him to go. He approached Kirkpatrick, thought of the man's father, and intoned a message: "May this year be a year of comfort." Greg Kirkpatrick, with his dog Ella, take in the sunset at Lindcove Ranch. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) The workers paused in the shade of a sturdy valley oak tree. But only for a moment. There were more cuttings to transfer. On this day and the hundreds following it Kirkpatrick and his colleagues would do all they could to secure a good harvest in three years' time. But, as farmers and rabbis have known for thousands of years, some things are beyond our control. Kirkpatrick seems to have made peace with that. 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. (The Hill) Former President Jimmy Carters upcoming 99th birthday celebration has been moved up a day amid the looming possibility of a government shutdown. The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum said some events for Carters birthday will happen on Saturday instead of Sunday, when current funding levels are set to run out. The interest in President Carters birthday is so great, we decided to make it a birthday weekend, both Saturday and Sunday with 99 cent admission, and all sort of birthday activities, the library and museum said in a statement to The Hill. Tony Clark, the museums director of public affairs, told CNN that some of the museums spaces that are part of the government will be closed if a shutdown does occur, saying we are starting early to make sure we have a celebration. NOAA releases 2023-2024 winter predictions Some libraries have a non-governmental foundation that operates their museum rather than NARA. Those are able to stay open. The Carter Library works closely with The Carter Center and share some spaces, but the museum is not one of those, Clark said. So while we anticipate congressional funding to resume October 1, if it doesnt, the government side of the Presidential Center will be closed. Carter, who served as president from 1977 to 1981, entered hospice care in February. He is the oldest former president in American history. Earlier this month, grandson Jason Carter, the chairman of The Carter Center, said the former president and former first lady Rosalynn Carter, who has been diagnosed with dementia, are coming to the end. They are together. They are at home. They are in love, and I dont think anyone gets more than that, Jason Carter said. I mean, its a perfect situation for this time in their lives. Ahead of Jimmy Carters 99th birthday, the Carter Center is asking the public to help celebrate the former president with a video or photo message that will create a mosaic. Our mosaic project is a symbolic way to show how we all play a part in President Carters remarkable legacy of service to humanity, according to The Carter Center website. Congress has until this weekend to avert a government shutdown, and divisions among House Republicans have left it without a clear path forward. A government shutdown would lead to the suspension of nonessential federal functions and result in millions of federal employees not receiving pay. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. JK Rowling and a host of the actors who starred in the Harry Potter film franchise have reacted to the news of Michael Gambons death. The Irish-English actor, who played Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore across six of the eight Potter movies, died on Thursday (28 September) aged 82, his wife and son announced. We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon, they said, via the actors publicist. Beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife, Anne, and son, Fergus, at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia. Michael was 82. We ask that you respect our privacy at this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love. Gambon began his most recognisable role as Dumbledore in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, the third film in the series, following the death of the roles original star Richard Harris in 2002. Writing on Twitter/X on Thursday, Rowling recalled the first time she saw Gambon, which was in a play years before she had conceived of the wizarding world in which the actor would play such a huge role. Ive just heard the awful news about Michael Gambon. The first time I ever laid eyes on him was in King Lear, in 1982, and if youd told me then that brilliant actor would appear in anything Id written, Id have thought you were insane, she wrote. Michael was a wonderful man in additional to being an outstanding actor, and I absolutely loved working with him, not only on Potter but also The Casual Vacancy. My deepest condolences go to Michaels family and everyone who loved him. I've just heard the awful news about Michael Gambon. The first time I ever laid eyes on him was in King Lear, in 1982, and if you'd told me then that brilliant actor would appear in anything I'd written, I'd have thought you were insane. Michael was a wonderful man in additional J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) September 28, 2023 Responding to a comment about his performance in the King Lear, Rowling added: It was EXTRAORDINARY! Went with my A-level class. It was the first time Id ever seen Shakespeare performed, and talk about setting the bar almost unreachably high Rupert Grint was the first of the films lead actors to pay tribute to Gambon. Grint played Ron Weasley, one-third of the storys central triumvirate in addition to Hermione Granger (Emma Watson) and the eponymous Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe). So sad to hear about Michael, Grint wrote on Instagram. He brought so much warmth and mischief to every day on set. He captivated me as a kid and became a personal role model of mine for finding the fun and eccentricities in life. Sending all my love to his family, Rupert. Bonnie Wright, who played Rons sister, Ginnie, in the films, shared: I was forever in awe of Michaels presence and performance. His deep mischievous voice between scenes would vibrate through the Great Hall. He was Dumbledore through and through a constant, warm and guiding figure. Fiona Shaw, who played Petunia Dursley in the film franchise, told BBC Radio 4 that she regarded him as a magnificent trickster. She said of working with him on the Harry Potter films: He took over from Richard Harris and of course, he began to mimic Richard Harris, who had recently died, and he would do his accent, the slight Irish accent. Which of course he always loved having an excuse to do because his family had come from Ireland, and gone to live in Camden. He just loved the precariousness of reality and unreality and, of course, that made him a very great actor. James Phelps, who played Fred Weasley, described Gambon as a legend and recalled an occasion when the veteran actor helped him read lines for another project during his downtime. Very sorry to hear about the passing of Michael Gambon. He was, on and off the camera, a legend. Just a little memory of Michael pic.twitter.com/4M6E6inWMy James Phelps (@James_Phelps) September 28, 2023 A whole host of actors from outside the franchise, who either worked with Gambon or admired his talent, have also paid tribute to the late star. Dame Helen Mirren recalled working with Gambon on 1982s Antony And Cleopatra, calling him an extraordinary actor. She told BBC News she would smile when she thinks of him: Because he was incredibly funny. He had this natural Irish sense of humour, naughty but very, very funny. He was enormously self-deprecating, and at the same time an instinctive actor and a wonderful person to be around just in general. He kept me constantly in laughter, we had some very funny moments playing Antony and Cleopatra together. Julia Roberts also described working with Gambon on the 1996 film Mary Reilly as an honour, writing on Instagram: He was always smiling, always kind. RIP Sir Michael Gambon. #legend. Former Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson also shared his condolences, recalling how a corner of their track was named after him due to his memorable fast lap. Gambon is survived by his wife Anne and son Fergus. With a government shutdown looming, the GOP ramping up its impeachment inquiry and the second Republican presidential debate on the horizon, President Joe Biden headed West. While speaking at Arizona State University - where he announced a national library in honor of his late friend and one-time competitor Sen. John McCain - Biden sought to make a point that is central to his reelection campaign. Namely, that American democracy is at risk. America's institutions have been "damaged" by attacks from within, Biden said in the Tempe, Ariz. speech on the final day of his trip. Delivering his most forceful remarks on the topic since his predecessor was charged was trying to overturn the results of the last presidential election, Biden said the executive, legislative and judicial branches are grappling with threats. "And for that institutional damage, we see distrust and division among our own people," Biden said. "I'm here to tell you, we lose these institutions of our government at our own peril." TEMPE, ARIZONA - SEPTEMBER 28: US President Joe Biden gives a speech at the Tempe Center for the Arts on September 28, 2023 in Tempe, Arizona. Biden delivered remarks on protecting democracy, honoring the legacy of the late Sen. John McCain (R-AZ), and revealed funding for the McCain Library.(Photo by Rebecca Noble/Getty Images) ORG XMIT: 776042030 ORIG FILE ID: 1695724589 Taking on Trump In comments that were directed at former President Donald Trump , Biden said adherence to the Constitution can neither be optional nor situational. Referring to him at first as the "defeated former president" and moments later by name, Biden said there is an extremist movement within the Republican Party that does not share the basic beliefs of American democracy. "This is a dangerous notion, that this president is above the law, no limits on power. Trump says the Constitution gave him the 'right to do whatever he wants as president.' I've never even heard a president say that in jest," he said. "Not guided by the Constitution, or by comments, service toward our fellow Americans, but by vengeance and vindictiveness." Biden asked what they intend to do once they erode the Constitutional requirements of checks and balances and separation of powers and suggested that it includes giving the president the power to refuse to spend money that Congress has appropriated. Possible Government Shutdown Without a breakthrough in negotiations with a faction of House Republicans who are pushing for deep spending cuts, the federal government will shut down on Sunday morning until lawmakers either finalize a series of bills authorizing new spending or they pass temporary legislation that keeps Washington open. As of Thursday afternoon, Congress still had a long way to go. Biden said Republicans on Capitol Hill are being driven and intimidated by the group, which he described as "extremists in Congress more determined to shut down the government, to burn the place down than to let the peoples' business be done." Silent on Impeachment Elsewhere on Capitol Hill on Thursday, lawmakers in the Republican Party were trying to prove unsubstantiated claims that Biden committed impeachable offenses as vice president. Hours into a House Oversight Committee hearing on the subject, they still had not shown that Biden took bribes from foreign entities when he was vice president or allowed his son Hunter's business dealings to affect American foreign policy. Biden did not comment on the effort directly in his Arizona speech. But he did make an attempt to appeal to Americans who are unhappy with his leadership and may be inclined to vote him out of office. "I've tried my very best, and I'm sure I haven't met the test ... that all of you want me to meet," he said. "But I've tried my very best to meet the highest standards, whether you voted for me or not. Because that's the job. To deliver light, not heat. To make sure that democracy delivers for everyone." McCain's Legacy Biden sought to draw a contrast with McCain's legacy and that of today's Republican Party. Biden was the Democratic vice presidential nominee when McCain was the GOP presidential nominee in 2008. A war hero, McCain put his country first, Biden said. Drawing a parallel between McCain, who was a close friend of his despite their political differences, and threats to American democracy, he said the fight to preserve the nation's political system should unite everyone. "You can't love your country only when you win," Biden said early in his speech. As he delivered the address, Biden was interrupted by a protester asking why he had not declared a climate emergency. Biden promised to meet with the demonstrator after the speech if he stopped yelling. "Democracy never is easy, as we just demonstrated," Biden said. Arizona at the epicenter Biden's selection of Arizona for his remarks was a message in and of itself. The state attorney general's office is conducting an investigation of an alleged fake electors scheme that was designed to help Trump. Biden narrowly won Arizona in 2020. The state has a Senate seat on the ballot next year and will play a prominent role in determining the winner of the White House race in 2024. Trump has been indicted in four criminal cases across the country, including one involving a slate of alleged false electors in Georgia. The former president has pleaded not guilty to charges that he helped orchestrate an effort to overturn the results of the last presidential election. Biden has been careful not to weigh in on the criminal charges, which has made for a complicated dance with Trump competing for the Republican presidential nomination. Instead, he rebutted attacks Trump and his supporters have made on servicemembers such as McCain and retiring Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Mark Milley. Trump said that calls Milley made to his Chinese counterparts as the former president was leaving office would have been punishable by death at another time in American history. "And although I don't believe even a majority Republicans think that, the silence is deafening," Biden said. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: In democracy speech, Biden bashes a government shutdown...and Trump In a speech at the commemoration of the John McCain Library in Arizona, President Joe Biden slammed former President Donald Trump s plans to centralize control of the executive branch in the White House, bring the Department of Justice under presidential control and purge the civil service in favor of partisan actors. Billed as a defense of democratic institutions, Biden quoted from a New York Times article on Trumps plans for centralizing control over the executive branch to call out his likely 2024 opponents efforts to alter the balance of power by increasing the presidents authority over every part of the federal government. Erode the power of independent agencies. Put them under the thumb of a president. Give the president the power to refuse to spend money the Congress has appropriated if he doesnt like what its being spent for. Get rid of long-standing protections for civil service, Biden said, listing Trumps plans. Biden zeroed in on one Trump policy in particular, the reassignment of tens of thousands of federal civil servants to positions without long-standing civil service protections. At the tail end of Trumps presidency, he signed an executive order establishing Schedule F, a new class of federal worker who could be fired at will by the president and replaced by someone more amenable to the presidents wishes. Now, he is running to put it back in place if he wins in 2024. These civil servants had to pledge loyalty to the president, not the Constitution. They did not require any protections if the president wanted to wholesale fire them, Biden said, noting that he repealed Trumps order soon after taking office in 2021. Trumps plans to gut the civil service and bring the entire federal bureaucracy under his direct control flows from his assertion that the Constitution gives him the right to do whatever he wants as president, Biden said, quoting Trump. President Joe Biden delivered remarks on protecting democracy and honoring the legacy of the late Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) in Tempe, Arizona, on Thursday. President Joe Biden delivered remarks on protecting democracy and honoring the legacy of the late Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) in Tempe, Arizona, on Thursday. Ive never even heard a president say that in jest, Biden said. [Hes] not guided by the Constitution, or in common decency and service to our fellow Americans, but by vengeance and vindictiveness. In contrast, Biden declared that the defining feature of our democracy is our Constitution. I believe in the separation of powers and checks and balances; that debate and disagreement do not lead to disunion, Biden said. I believe in free and fair elections and the peaceful transfer of power. I believe theres no place in America none, none, none for political violence. And while Biden focused in on Trumps policy prescriptions for personalist control, he declared that the threat to democracy and its institutions does not derive from Trump alone. Its not one person, Biden said. Its a controlling element of the House Republican party. Biden noted as an example of what he called MAGA Extremism when Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis boasted he would start slitting throats of federal workers if he were elected president. He also made note that congressional Republicans were silent after Trump called for the execution of outgoing Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Mark Milley. The silence is deafening, Biden said. Hardly any Republicans called out such heinous statements. While Republicans may remain silent, or supportive, in the face of Trumps provocations, Biden called on the non-MAGA majority of Americans not to be silent, too. Democracies dont have to die at the end of a rifle, Biden said. They can die when people are silent. Related... The Shawnee City Council is considering whether to tighten restrictions on Airbnbs and other short-term rentals or outright ban them from residential areas. City officials say theyve received a growing number of complaints in single-family neighborhoods about noise, parking, alcohol and trash at Airbnb and Vrbo locations. And now the city is considering whether to regulate them more or get rid of them altogether, as a growing number of cities nationwide, including New York City and Dallas, crack down. Shawnee could be one of the first cities in Johnson County to do so. Prairie Village officials also have discussed regulating short-term rentals in residential areas. The Overland Park City Council last year passed an ordinance regulating nuisance parties, which came out of a study of short-term rentals following a fatal shooting at one. Kansas City this spring passed an ordinance requiring such rentals to register with the city, pay an annual fee and adhere to added safety measures. And in April, Kansas City voters approved a 7.5% tax on short-term rentals. Earlier this month, Wichita passed an ordinance requiring Airbnb operators to obtain a license and pay a $225 annual fee. In Shawnee, city staff estimates at least 60 short-term rentals are listed on Airbnb and Vrbo. The city regulates them by requiring owners to obtain an annual business license. The city says 16 short-term rentals have such licenses. In the past few years, police have received 16 calls for service at the properties, Police Chief Sam Larson told the council on Monday. I think 16 calls for service in two and a half years is not that many, Larson said. I dont think this is out of the ordinary for any other single-family residences. But neighbors have been complaining about the rentals more frequently, city officials said, prompting the council to discuss tighter restrictions over the past several months. On Monday, council members were split on how to move forward, with some pushing for banning the rentals in residential neighborhoods and others wanting to see options for better regulating them. Im not for an all-out ban, Councilman Kurt Knappen said. Were a conservative council and I just dont want to over-regulate something unless we have a real problem. But Im very interested in limiting the number of guests. Im very interested in being able to root out a problem rental and how we can do that quickly and take care of that problem. Councilwoman Tammy Thomas argued that single-family areas should not accommodate this type of business, saying that shes seen poorly maintained properties and parking issues. People save their lives, they invest every single dollar theyve had. Theyve raised their children. To have a nice home, she said. And we need to provide the people who are a here a nice home. I dont see that as our duty to provide a nice vacation spot on the weekends. I dont think thats our role as a council. Councilman Eric Jenkins said following others like Kansas City and Dallas, hes hoping Shawnee can get ahead of the curve and pass regulations before the city sees troubles worsen. I think were doing our due diligence by addressing the issue now before it is a super huge problem, he said. The council directed staff to come back with more options for restricting short-term rentals, but it is unclear when they might vote on it. Last year, Shawnee adopted an ordinance prohibiting more than three unrelated people from living together in a single residence. The city only allows more people to live together if they are blood relatives or related by marriage, adoption or guardianship. A property management company sued the city over the ordinance, but a federal judge recently sided with Shawnee. The company is now appealing. NGL.media has identified 1,816 representatives of the occupation authorities, nearly 87% of whom are Ukrainian collaborators. Source: NGL.media Details: On 5 October 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed documents on the accession of four Ukrainian oblasts Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson into Russia. Since then, information about the occupation authorities has been appearing on Russia's Unified State Register of Legal Entities. Based on this data, NGL.media was able to identify a total of 1,816 representatives of the occupation authorities from the police and the court system to schools and utilities. The vast majority of them 1,579 people, or almost 87% turned out to be collaborators: Ukrainian citizens who joined the Russians and were put in charge of certain institutions, sometimes several at once. The investigative journalists have compiled lists of names that can be sorted by oblast or type of institution and authority, as well as a map of collaborators. The database is searchable too. A random selection of representatives of the occupation authorities NGL MEDIA Key positions in the FSB and the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation in the occupied territories are held by Russians, who also prevail in military units and military enlistment offices (over 80%). However, Ukrainian collaborators tend to be in charge of police departments (87%), penal colonies, prisons and detention centres (80%). The journalists found only two military units in Crimea led by former Ukrainian citizens (Mykhailo Shcherbak and Serhii Maksymenko). In addition, Yevhen Kucherenko, a native of the city of Khartsyzk, was appointed military commissar of the so-called Donetsk Peoples Republic (a self-proclaimed and non-recognised quasi-state formation in Donetsk Oblast ed.), and Vadym Shuryhin, a collaborator from Crimea, was appointed head of the Kherson military enlistment office. Russians make up 75% of the leadership of the prosecutor's office. The only exceptions are the so-called Prosecutor's Office of the Donetsk People's Republic and the former General Prosecutor's Office of the Donetsk People's Republic, which is currently disbanded. The first is headed by Andrii Spivak, a former employee of the Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine who became the "DPR's prosecutor general" before the official annexation, and the second by former Ukrainian prosecutor Maksym Simenko. Russians also preside over 64% of courts and judicial departments in the occupied territories. Despite their distrust of the locals, the Russians cannot fill all the leadership positions with their fellow citizens, and so 87% of the nearly 2,000 heads of various institutions in the occupied territories are Ukrainians. All of them have consciously cooperated with the Russians and become collaborators in order to get or keep their desired positions. A typical example is the unlikely career path of 34-year-old Yevheniia Kuzmenko from Kherson Oblast, who went from being a massage specialist in Kherson to heading the Novotroitske Military Administration. Her father, Mykola Kuzmenko, is an archpriest in the local diocese of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate who made no secret of his pro-Russian views even before the full-scale war began. In total, Ukrainian citizens head up more than 1,000 occupation municipal bodies their share there is almost 95%. Local Kremlin-appointed puppet leaders have included former village and district heads, council members and officials, as well as people who previously had no influence in their local communities, such as massage specialists, taxi drivers, moonshine traders or former convicts. There are many Ukrainians in the education sector. In schools and kindergartens in the occupied territories, it is mainly former Ukrainian teachers who are teaching children to love Russia. And their salaries are being paid by the same employees in education departments and offices as before the occupation. The top three categories of "state institutions'' where local supporters of the occupiers statistically prevail are mainly the social sector or bodies with rather narrow powers. For instance, collaborators run absolutely all the land resource committees of the so-called Donetsk Peoples Republic. The second largest sector in terms of the number of collaborators are the various so-called Cossack organisations in occupied Crimea. Of the 44 legal entities currently operating, 43 are run by former holders of Ukrainian passports. Formally, Cossack organisations are associations of citizens, not state authorities, but they still have the authority to protect public order, protect state and municipal facilities, and provide military training for their members. 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! Area women are invited to attend a "Journey to Peace" luncheon on Tuesday, Oct. 10, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the DoubleTree Hotel on 215 S. Illinois Avenue in Oak Ridge. The luncheon meeting will have as its feature guest, Rae Mihal, from Pioneer, Tennessee. She will tell her story of 20 years working in Saudi Arabia for a large oil company, and share some of the artifacts from her years of life in the desert, according to a news release. Following her presentation will be the inspirational speaker for the day, Linda McDaniel from Ellenboro, North Carolina. She loves to travel, touring historic buildings and antebellum homes. She also is a former secretary and concierge of a day spa. In her pursuit to become the "perfect woman," she found the true source of peace and contentment. He topic: ""Living at the Day Spa - is that realistic?" Invite a friend and make your reservations by noon Friday, Oct. 6, to Debbie at 865-323-3973 or Roena at 865-806-1071. The total cost of the luncheon and program is $16, including tax and tip. Free preschool childcare is available with reservation. Remember that reservations must be honored. Christian Women's Connections are nondenominational and associated with Stonecrooft Ministries. This article originally appeared on Oakridger: "Journey to Peace" with Oak Ridge area women on Oct. 10. The judge who gutted a sexual assault case against a Newport Beach surgeon and his girlfriend ruled Thursday that the case should go to trial on seven remaining counts, including a charge that they slipped drugs into a womans drink. In July, Orange County Superior Court Judge Michael Leversen ruled there was not enough evidence to take Grant Robicheaux and Cerissa Riley to trial on charges they drugged and sexually assaulted two women. It was a major setback for a case that had already eroded dramatically since 2018, when Robicheaux was charged with sexually assaulting five women, and Riley with being involved in attacks on three. All sex charges were dismissed, and in late August, the case appeared to get smaller still, when the judge signaled that he would toss out three more felony counts. The counts involved the allegation that Robicheaux and Riley slipped a drug into the drink of a woman known in court as Jane Doe and furnished her with PCP, in addition to Riley supplying cocaine. Read more: Sex charges dropped against Newport Beach surgeon and his girlfriend The judge reversed himself Thursday, however, saying those three counts can stand, and that a jury should decide facts in dispute, such as whether Jane Doe ingested drugs voluntarily, as the defense contends. Along with the charges related to Jane Doe, Robicheaux faces felony counts of illegal possession of assault weapons, as well as misdemeanor charges of possessing cocaine, Ecstasy, psilocybin and GHB. The case has drawn widespread attention owing in part to Robicheauxs celebrity status. An orthopedic surgeon, he appeared on the Bravo reality show Online Dating Rituals of the American Male and was deemed Orange Countys Most Eligible Bachelor by a local magazine. In 2018, then-Dist. Atty. Tony Rackauckas portrayed the couple as predators who found women in Newport Beach bars and plied them with drugs, and claimed Robicheaux kept a stash of sex videos portraying women who were too intoxicated to consent. Read more: Surgeon who appeared on reality TV dating show is accused of sexual assault and preying on drugged women Rackauckass successor, Todd Spitzer, said the case had serious proof problems and that no such videos were found. The state attorney generals office took over the case, which was whittled down from 13 accusers to two, and now just the woman known as Jane Doe. According to the criminal complaint, that woman met Robicheaux and Riley in April 2017 at Nobu, a restaurant in Newport Beach, and later went to a second bar, where Riley gave her cocaine in the bathroom. Her next memory was walking up the stairs to Robicheauxs home, according to the complaint. Jane Doe said the couple made aggressive sexual advances while ignoring her protests, and that Robicheaux shook powder he identified as PCP into a water bottle that Riley handed her. The woman, who serves in the Israeli military, is expected to fly to the United States to testify for the prosecution at trial, which is scheduled for November. 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. FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried spent months under cushy pre-trial home confinement until he leaked unflattering documents about a likely witness and landed himself in jail. On Thursday, a judge rejected his latest effort to get out. Bankman-Frieds lawyers had urged Judge Lewis Kaplan to grant their client a temporary residence for the duration of his trial, which begins next week, saying it was necessary for him to mount an effective defense. They suggested hiring a security guard to escort Bankman-Fried from their offices every night, saying the guard would make sure he didnt use computers, cell phones, the Internet, television, or any electronic devices. The attorneys said Bankman-Fried would also agree to a gag order barring him from talking to anyone other than his lawyers, their staff, and his immediate family. Such a measure would have prevented additional instances of alleged witness tampering, after he shared documents about his former girlfriend and coworker Caroline Ellison to The New York Times. Prosecutors challenged Bankman-Frieds request, noting that the inconveniences cited in his motion were common to all incarcerated defendants. They also argued that he had failed to be specific about how his ability to prepare for trial was impeded. Prosecutors quoted William Nardini, a judge on the Court of Appeals for the Second Circuitwhich previously rejected Bankman-Frieds petition for releasewho said the crypto whiz kid should have thought about the effects of incarceration before he allegedly tried to intimidate or influence witnesses. But like anyone else, Nardini said, if it is true that he has intimidated witnesses, at a certain point, he makes his own bed and sleeps in it. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. The judge overseeing the federal governments criminal prosecution of former President Donald Trump over his actions to subvert the 2020 presidential election has turned down Trumps attempt to get her off the case. In a 20-page ruling issued Wednesday evening, U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan rejected Trumps arguments that her comments in other Jan. 6-related cases raised doubts about her fairness. In 2021 and 2022, while sentencing rioters convicted of crimes connected to the breach of the Capitol, Chutkan alluded to the fact that Trump had not yet been charged with any crimes and had motivated his followers to go to the Capitol that day. The setback for Trump came just hours before his Republican primary opponents were set to debate on a stage without him. The ruling offered a vivid reminder of his legal vulnerability even as he continues to dominate the GOP contest. In denying Trumps request that she step aside, Chutkan wrote that Trumps hypersensitive defense had exaggerated her previous statements and had wrongly claimed that they were informed by news reports or other sources. She maintained that her comments had responded to specific legal arguments of individual defendants who had tried to mitigate their culpability by pointing at Trump. A reasonable person aware of the statutory requirement that the court address the defendants arguments and state its reasons for its sentence would understand that in making the statements contested here, the court was not issuing vague declarations about third parties potential guilt in a hypothetical future case, Chutkan wrote. Instead, it was fulfilling its duty to expressly evaluate the defendants arguments that their sentences should be reduced because other individuals whom they believed were associated with the events of January 6 had not been prosecuted. Chutkans decision clears away, for now, the most pressing issue facing Trumps prosecution related to his bid to subvert the 2020 election. The judge is also weighing a demand by prosecutors for a gag order to prevent Trump from attacking witnesses, prosecutors and the judge herself. Trump is also expected to file a barrage of motions to delay his trial (which is currently set for March), to transfer it to another district and to have the case thrown out altogether by claiming hes immune from prosecution. In her ruling, Chutkan also noted that legal precedents generally discourage judges from making comments based on news reports or their own personal investigation, but in-court remarks based on evidence before the court are generally fair game, even if the evidence comes from a prior, related case. Trumps attorneys sought to overcome that hurdle by arguing that Chutkan must have been considering information she obtained outside court, but she insisted that wasnt the case. The statements at issue here were based on intrajudicial sources, Chukan wrote. They arose not, as the defense speculates, from watching the news, but from the sentencing proceedings. The statements directly reflected facts proffered and arguments made by those defendants. Chutkan, a Washington-based appointee of President Barack Obama, also noted that Trumps attorneys at times sought to characterize her comments about unnamed instigators of the Jan. 6 attack as being specifically about Trump. The court expressly declined to state who, if anyone, it thought should still face charges, she wrote. It is the defense, not the court, who has assumed that the defendant belongs in that undefined group. The judge also noted that she was, in her view, legally required to confront the arguments that Jan. 6 defendants made about Trump. In considering the sentences of the two prior defendants cited by Trumps lawyers Robert Palmer and Christine Priola Chutkan pointed out that they sought reductions in their sentences by arguing that they bore less culpability than Trump and his enablers. At Palmers sentencing in December 2021, Chutkan stated: Mr. Palmer you have made a very good point, one that has been made before that the people who exhorted you and encouraged you and rallied you to go and take action and to fight have not been charged. The issue of who has or has not been charged is not before me. I dont have any influence on that. I have my opinions, but they are not relevant. And at Priolas sentencing last October, Chutkan did seem to unambiguously refer to Trump. The people who mobbed that Capitol were there in fealty, in loyalty, to one man not to the Constitution, of which most of the people who come before me seem woefully ignorant; not to the ideals of this country; and not to the principles of democracy, Chutkan declared then. Its a blind loyalty to one person who, by the way, remains free to this day. Chutkan acknowledged the accuracy of those remarks, but said they were appropriate and necessary given the arguments the defendants were making. The court did state that the former president was free at the time of Priolas sentence an undisputed fact upon which Priola had relied for her mitigation argument but it went no further, she wrote in her ruling Wednesday. To extrapolate an announcement of defendants guilt from the courts silence is to adopt hypersensitive, cynical, and suspicious perspective rather than a reasonable one. An attorney for Trump, Todd Blanche, declined to comment Wednesday on whether the former president plans to ask the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals to step in and wrest the case away from Chutkan. The case is one of two criminal prosecutions brought against Trump by special counsel Jack Smith. But Chutkan noted that the appeals court has declined to order a judges recusal in far more pointed circumstances than the ones alleged by Trump and his lawyers. One of the jurors who delivered a second-degree murder verdict for the teen who shot and killed two students at a Des Moines alternative school in January told the Des Moines Register in an exclusive interview that the jury didn't buy prosecutors' argument that the killing was gang-related. Preston Walls, now 19, also was convicted Sept. 14 of voluntary manslaughter and assault in the Jan. 23 shooting deaths of Rashad Carr, 16, and Gionni Dameron, 18. But the jury did not find Walls guilty of more serious first-degree murder charges and acquitted him of criminal gang participation and of attempted murder in the wounding of William Holmes, also known as Will Keeps, the founder of the Starts Right Here education program, where the shootings occurred in a downtown office park. More: Why we granted anonymity to juror in article examining Starts Right Here shooting verdict Throughout the two-week trial, prosecutors and police argued that the shooting was part of an ongoing gang dispute that had led to numerous other shootings in Des Moines. They said Walls targeted Carr and Dameron because they and their gang, Only My Brothers, or OMB, had publicly disrespected his gang, known as Only The Real or Strap Gang. The Register is not identifying the juror at the person's request, including referring to the juror's gender. The juror said that while the jury found the shooting was not justified, it largely agreed with the version of events put forwarded by Walls' defense attorneys: that he shot Dameron and Carr because he believed they were going to shoot him, and was afraid for his life. Preston Walls testifies in his own defense during his trial. "I mean, it was an interesting theory," the juror said of the alleged gang connection, but "they didn't prove it beyond the shadow of a doubt." Prosecutors are now preparing to try a second alleged gang member, accused getaway driver Bravon Tukes, for his role in the shootings. Jury selection in his trial begins Monday. What makes a gang member? Jury wanted better answer Prosecutors in the trial presented extensive evidence, much of it in connection with the testimony of Des Moines police Detective Jeff George, that showed Walls and other reported gang members brandishing guns, flashing gang signs and talking about gang activity on social media. But when the defense pressed George on what evidence he uses to characterize individuals as current or former gang members and associates, George refused to identify any firm criteria, saying at one point that "its not one single determination, its the whole totality of the individual. The juror said that response didn't land well in the jury room, and that during deliberations the jury saw a distinction between being a gang member and acting like one on social media. "He couldn't define what makes someone a gang member, and in the end, we are left with the impression that what makes someone a gang member is Detective George with Des Moines police decides that they're a gang member," the juror said. "We have no doubt that these people associated with gangs, maybe some friends from childhood, some family members, but we didn't see any evidence other than pictures, really, of kids being stupid." Did Preston Walls' actions before shooting suggest plan? Prosecutors cited Walls' gang connections as the motive for the killing. In particular, they said a rap video by Carr and other OMB members had inflamed tensions in the week before the shooting, and that text messages between Walls and Tukes on the morning of the shooting showed them planning the attack. Rashad Carr died in a shooting at Starts Right Here on Jan. 23, 2023. Previously: Starts Right Here shooting linked to teen's killing by Des Moines police, court records say But jurors were struck by other text messages Walls sent that morning about a job interview he was excited about, as well as the hours he spent before the shooting with teachers, working on an essay, the juror said. Walls knew the school had video cameras and would have known he had little chance to escape identification if he conducted a planned shooting in such a high-profile location, the jury reasoned. "If your plan is you're never going to graduate from the school because you're going to perpetrate a shooting, why bother with the essay?" the juror asked. The job interview texts were significant not only because they showed Walls making plans for a time after the shooting, suggesting he hadn't already decided to carry it out, but also because the state did not include them in its exhibits, leaving the defense to bring them up, the juror said. "Detective George destroyed his credibility with that," the juror said. "They should have handled the whole morning texts better, because now we're questioning what's [George's] motivation. It's basically him saying, 'I present the facts that prove my case.' Well, what about the truth?" No sign Gionni Dameron or Rashad Carr threatened Preston Walls that day, jury concluded So if not to kill rival gang members, why did Walls shoot Carr and Dameron? Jurors credited Walls' testimony that he was afraid for his life, the juror said. Walls said on the stand that he'd previously been shot in an incident that he believed involved Dameron, and been shot at on another occasion by Carr. He testified he'd been assaulted at work by another OMB member, and that there had been a verbal confrontation with Dameron and Carr outside Starts Right Here two weeks before the shooting. Gionni Dameron died in a shooting at Starts Right Here on Jan. 23, 2023. The jury didn't see evidence of a threat from Dameron or Carr on the day of the shooting, but the juror said given that history, it wasn't unreasonable for him to be fearful. "The impression was that he had been carrying a gun to school, he knew Gionni was carrying a gun to school, and at some point in that day, something happened that made him decide he had to kill these two kids," the juror said. "We never really got a clear understanding of why. Even watching the video, you can see him get worked up, but there wasn't any clear threat from Rashad or Gionni." The juror emphasized that none of the jurors believed Dameron or Carr had provoked the attack. "I want to be clear about that. They did not deserve to be shot. No one's arguing that whatsoever," the juror said. "... I would like the families to know that we didn't think their kids, Gionni or Rashad, were some sort of vicious gang member or violent person. We definitely didn't view it that way." Jury saw shootings as not self-defense, but not premeditated Walls' attorneys argued that, since he was afraid for his life, the shootings were justified self-defense. The jury convicted him anyway, although not of the most serious murder charge. The jurors chose second-degree murder for Carr's shooting because, in light of the essay-writing and job interview texts, they felt the state hadn't proven the shooting to be premeditated, the juror said. Still, the jury found that because Carr was unarmed, and because Walls shot him without warning, his actions amounted to murder, the juror said. Before the shooting, Walls removed a GPS ankle monitor he'd been ordered to wear for a previous offense. The juror noted that jurors did not consider that action to be evidence of premeditation, a requirement of a first-degree murder conviction. The jurors instead considered that a sign that he feared he would have to defend himself and might be in danger from police responding to the school afterward, the juror said. Asked to comment on the juror's account of the jury's reasoning, Bob Rigg, a Drake University law professor who leads the school's Criminal Defense Clinic, said that courts have held that even instant decision-making may amount to premeditation. "Premeditation has to exist either prior to or at the time of the incident, but it can happen instantaneously," he said. "It just depends on the facts of the case and how the jurors perceive those facts." Still, he said, jurors are instructed they are free to believe some, all or none of the evidence presented, and can come to their own conclusions about what a defendant decided to do and when. Factors that weighed against the jury finding the shootings were justified, the juror said, were that Walls had left the room where Dameron and Carr were, but chose to come back and confront them. Jurors also considered that the manner of the shooting, in which Walls fired 30 bullets while running back and forth between the two injured teens, showed him using much more force than was needed to end any perceived threat. Jury nearly deadlocked on Gionni Dameron shooting The harder decision, the juror said, was what to do about the shooting of Dameron, who had a gun in his waistband when he died. Several jurors argued strenuously to acquit Walls for Dameron's shooting, to the point that on the morning of Sept. 14, after nearly two days of deliberation, the jury considered telling the judge it was deadlocked. Instead, the juror said, the jury was able to set that issue aside and work through other charges, which helped break the logjam on Dameron with a guilty verdict on a charge of voluntary manslaughter. "The voluntary manslaughter came about because in the instructions it allowed for someone responding in a violent passion. And we felt that that's what he had done, even though it wasn't self-defense, that he'd basically gotten so worried and worked up that he got himself in this fiery passion," the juror said, adding that if Dameron had been unarmed, the verdict likely would have been second-degree murder for his death as well. Why did the jury acquit Preston Walls of attempted murder in shooting Will Keeps? Will Keeps testifies during the trial of Preston Walls. Jurors found Walls not guilty of attempted murder for shooting Keeps, although they convicted him of a lesser charge of assault causing serious injury. Although prosecutors suggested Keeps might have been an intended target, the jury believed he had been wounded by accident while Walls was shooting at Carr, the juror said. That still could have amounted to attempted murder under the legal theory of transferred intent, which holds that defendants are responsible for crimes they try to commit against one victim, even if another victim is actually affected. The jury instructions included guidance on transferred intent, but the juror said that, because jurors convicted Walls of second-degree instead of first-degree murder for shooting Carr, they didn't think transferred intent applied. "Our understanding from the instructions was the transferred intent applied to the first-degree murder charge," the juror said. "If it applied to the second-degree murder charge, we must have misunderstood." Rigg, who reviewed the jury instructions for Walls' case, said transferred intent can be applied to a variety of charges, frequently including attempted murder. "Someone shoots at A and intends to hit A, but hits B, and B does not die, then yes, transferred intent would come into play," he said. "Transferred intent can apply to other crimes besides homicide. Attempted murder is the classic example." The jury sent the judge at least one note during deliberations requesting clarification on the instructions, although the judge did not read the question in court and it's not clear if it involved the transferred intent question. After consulting with the attorneys, the judge responded by telling the jury to reread the instructions. Juror sees 2 deaths, Will Keeps' injury, Preston Walls' imprisonment as 'so senseless' Des Moines police investigate a multiple-injury shooting at Starts Right Here, 455 S.W. Fifth St., a nonprofit educational mentorship program that helps at-risk metro Des Moines youth, Monday, Jan. 23, 2023. The main takeaway from the case, the juror said, was that none of this had to happen. "You have Will Keeps, who is an awesome community member with what he does with the school and that program. He's been shot," the juror said. "You've got Gionni and Rashad dead for essentially no reason. And you have this kid who was 19, and he's spending 30, 40 years in prison. There's no way to feel good about this all around." Tempers flared at times during deliberations, the juror said, and some members felt ganged-up on by fellow jurors. "People think it's so black and white, but there were so many shades of gray to everything," the juror said. "And it was all so senseless, just completely senseless." Several jurors were in tears when they finally returned to court to present their verdict, the juror said, but ultimately they believed their verdict was the right one. "I feel I think we all felt like we did what justice required of us, what the law required of us, but I think we all felt a lot of negative emotion about having such a young person put away for so long," the juror said. Attorneys for both Walls and the state declined to comment on whether they spoke with any jurors after the trial. Walls is scheduled to be sentenced Nov. 8 and faces decades in prison. Tukes, his codefendant, could face life in prison if convicted of first-degree murder in his upcoming trial. 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: How jury reached Starts Right Here shooting verdict: Exclusive interview A woman who said she was repeatedly sexually assaulted by a counselor while incarcerated at a downstate prison and that authorities failed to properly act on her accusations was awarded more than $19 million by a federal jury late last week. The womans 2018 federal lawsuit against Logan Correctional Center personnel said the assaults occurred at a time when there were dozens of allegations of sexual assault or harassment by Illinois Department of Corrections employees against people who were incarcerated. The jury awarded the woman, identified only as Jane Doe, $8 million in compensatory damages and more than $11 million in punitive damages. Defendants included Richard Macleod, who was accused of sexually assaulting the plaintiff while he was a counselor at Logan, Todd Sexton, an internal affairs investigator at the prison when the allegations surfaced, and Margaret Burke, Logans warden at the time of the alleged acts. What Im hoping is that a number like this will get somebodys attention at the Department of Corrections to finally grapple with this problem, which has been going on for decades, said Alan Mills, executive director of the Uptown Peoples Law Center, which helped represent the woman. The Department of Corrections desperately needs independent oversight and, you know, as Ive said, somebody at Logan should have been standing up and screaming it from the rooftops saying that this is going on and you have to stop, or we just cant do business as usual, Mills said. Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raouls office, which represented many of the defendants in the case, had no comment. The Illinois Department of Corrections also declined to comment. The woman alleged the assaults started in 2016 when she was assigned to a housing unit where Macleod was her counselor. Macleod subsequently let her use the phone in his office so she could call her daughter, and then sexually assaulted her during those meetings, according to court documents. At all times Macleod knew how important (the womans) phone calls with her daughter were to her and he knew that (the woman) would need to go through him in order to have the calls, the lawsuit stated. The woman was transferred to another housing unit but Macleod made a special effort to remain her counselor, the lawsuit stated. The woman did not report Macleods misconduct for fear of retribution. Macleod told the woman that he had a friend in the prison system, Sexton, who advised him on avoiding punishment, according to the lawsuit. (The woman) understood this to mean that Macleod would not be held accountable for his actions even if she did report his misconduct, the lawsuit stated. Macleods abuse of the woman continued through at least May 2017, before she was assigned a new counselor, according to the lawsuit. The woman was subsequently transferred to Decatur Correctional Center. The prison was farther from some family members and, in court documents, she described the transfer as an act of retaliation. The suit alleged that prison personnel at Logan knew as early as February 2017 that Macleod was in fact engaging in this pattern of abuse, knew of a substantial likelihood that defendant Macleod was sexually abusing prisoners at Logan, and/or failed to take reasonable steps to prevent it from continuing. According to court documents, 54 incidents of staff-on-inmate sexual misconduct at Logan were reported in 2016, according to the lawsuit. The Illinois State Police investigated the allegations against Macleod, and one investigator later testified that she suspected Macleod abused other inmates as well as the plaintiff, according to court documents. In the summer of 2017, Logans assistant warden, Angel Wilson, recommended that Macleod be locked out of working at the prison, according to court documents. But Macleod stayed at Logan for 13 months, and was paid an annual salary of more than $97,500 as of 2019, according to court documents. Macleod resigned from IDOC in July 2021 and was briefly employed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services in 2022 before being discharged by the department, according to a DCFS spokeswoman who said she could not provide more details on his firing. Macleod never showed up for hearings or otherwise engaged in the case over five years, according to Nicole Schult, legal director of the Uptown Peoples Law Center. A Springfield judge issued a default judgment against him, allowing the assaults to be admissible as fact in court, according to Schult and court transcripts. The state police investigated the alleged assaults against Jane Doe and other Logan inmates and recommended charges against Macleod, but the attorney generals office declined to prosecute, according to Christina Sharkey, a former partner at Kirkland & Ellis who worked on the plaintiffs behalf. Among other issues, DNA evidence was never collected. Macleod could not be reached for comment. Sexton still works at the Department of Corrections, a spokesperson confirmed. The states prison system faces issues on a number of fronts. On Tuesday, the states auditor general issued a report covering a two-year period ending in June 2022 that laid out several deficiencies at IDOC, including failing to adequately train some of its employees. IDOC officials told the auditor general they have made an effort to better train its employees, which was more difficult to do in the last few years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and pay down the liabilities owed by the commissary funds. IDOC has been under a federally mandated consent decree to overhaul its health care system since 2019, Gov. J.B. Pritzkers first year in office. The decree stemmed from a 2010 lawsuit filed by prisoners who alleged systemic problems that led to serious disease and even death for prisoners Last year, a federal monitor tasked with overseeing reforms within IDOC issued a report saying the prison system failed to provide adequate health care for the roughly 29,000 people who are incarcerated in the system. Shortcomings outlined in the report ranged from the mistreatment of elderly inmates to a severe shortage of doctors and nurses, as well as poor record-keeping. jgorner@chicagotribune.com iarougheti@chicagotribune.com Residents in one Georgia city are criticizing how city officials have decided to address a pest problem around town. City of Tybee Island officials announced Wednesday that they will have a trapper on the north end of the island over the next few days to address the growing coyote population. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Officials added that the trapper will euthanize the coyotes and only work on public property. A few hours after the announcement was posted on Facebook, city officials turned off comments due to profanity and personal attacks. Chatham County resident Tonya Roberts told WJCL that she doesnt feel trapping and euthanizing the coyotes is right. I just cant fathom killing them, she said. I just think theres a better solution. TRENDING STORIES: Acting City Manager Michelle Owens told WJCL that there have been increased complaints from concerned citizens about coyote encounters and sightings. We have learned that coyotes are an issue all over the area and most likely more prevalent on Tybee due to increased development east of Tybee. We researched this and made the best decision possible, given the circumstances. We have decided to act before a tragedy occurs, she said. According to DNR, they are not a protected species in any capacity, and are considered an invasive nuisance...they are predatory and will inhabit an area and reproduce there as long as they can find a food source. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Owens added relocating the coyotes is not an option because they are considered rabies-prone animals. For more information about coyotes and what to do if you encounter one, click here. IN OTHER NEWS: Kari Lake is set to announce a Senate run, taking on Arizonas Independent Senator Kyrsten Sinema following the former broadcasters failed run for governor of the state in 2022. Ms Lake told The Wall Street Journal that she will officially announce her candidacy on 10 October. The race is set to be a three-way battle between a Republican, likely to be Ms Lake; incumbent and former Democrat turned Independent Ms Sinema; and US House Representative Ruben Gallego whos set to campaign for the Democratic nomination. Ms Lake is still falsely claiming that fraud cost her the 2022 gubernatorial election. But, despite repeated efforts, she has been unable to prove her claims much like former president Donald Trump and his false claims over the 2020 presidential election. Ms Lake told The Journal that she plans to continue her so-far failed attempts to litigate the 2022 gubernatorial election even as she runs for the US Senate in a race that may well decide which party controls the chamber. Im a mom, I can multitask, she told the paper. Arizona is one of the most closely-watched states in US politics. Recently, several tight races including for president, senators, and governor have resulted in Democratic wins, as more moderate GOP voters and independents move towards the party and away from Mr Trump and his supporters such as Ms Lake, who is one of his most effusive backers. During her 2022 run for governor, Ms Lake garnered widespread media attention, as well as the attention of Mr Trump, for her attacks on the media and Republicans who went against the former president, including the late Arizona senator and 2008 GOP presidential nominee John McCain. Kari Lake takes photos with her supporters after speaking during a rally she hosted at the Hilton Palm Beach Airport on June 12, 2023 in West Palm Beach, Florida (Getty Images) Ms Sinema hasnt announced a re-election campaign, but her staff has reportedly been preparing an independent bid based in the centre ground while Mr Gallego, a progressive House Democrat, announced that hes running for the seat earlier this year. While Pinal County Sheriff Mark Lamb is also running for the GOP nomination, Ms Lake is expected to represent the party in the general election because of her strong support with the party base. Blake Masters, a Republican nominee who lost to Democratic Senator and former astronaut Mark Kelly in 2022, was poised to run for the Senate again against Ms Sinema but has halted those plans following a phone call from Mr Trump laying out Ms Lakes strengths as a candidate, according to The Journal. Ms Lake has been tipped as a possible running mate for Mr Trump in 2024, but would be less likely to be offered the nomination if shes representing the GOP in a senate race they need to win to take back control of the chamber. Ruben Gallego is running for the Democratic senate nomination in Arizona (Getty Images) When asked by The Journal what she would do if she was offered the vice president slot by Mr Trump, she refused to say. National Republicans are concerned that a Lake candidacy would make it harder to win back the seat even as they acknowledge that shes likely to end up being the nominee. Mitch McConnell, the Senate minority leader from Kentucky, hasnt agreed to spend any campaign funds in Arizona, and his allies say that Ms Lake would need to show that she will be competitive, The Journal noted. In 2022, some Republicans lamented that nominees supported by Mr Trump were too extreme and not competitive in their general election matchups with Democrats who were often seen as more amiable to voters. Ms Lake told the paper that she hopes to meet with Mr McConnell and that she would back him as leader if he remains the top candidate. Kyrsten Sinema, an Independent and a former Democrat, is expected to launch a third-party re-election run (Getty Images) Id like to meet them to show them that Im a very reasonable person who loves my state, Ms Lake told The Journal. She will travel to Washington, DC next week to meet with a variety of Republicans. Shes also set to meet Republican strategist Josh Holmes, a Mr McConnell ally who often meets candidates running in close races. The chair of the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC), Republican Montana Senator Steve Daines, told The Journal that Ms Lake is a talented campaigner with an impressive ability to fire up the grassroots. There are concerns about her willingness to tie her fortunes to that of Mr Trump and that her campaign strategy of trying to turn out base voters instead of appealing to the middle may be a losing one. I dont believe that the Republicans in Arizona want to hand over our Senate vote to a New York liberal like Chuck Schumer, Ms Lake told the paper. A Gallego spokesperson said: Her extremism should disqualify her from public office and it will. Again. Chris Baker, a GOP strategist and advisor to a US House representative from the state, said: Until candidates realise that we cant win statewide here without suburban Republican and independent voters, were going to continue to lose. Former Arizona gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake (R) will officially launch a Senate campaign next month, her campaign confirmed Thursday. The much-anticipated announcement expected on Oct. 10 will make Lake the most significant Republican to throw their hat into the ring for the Arizona seat held by Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I), which is expected to be one of the closest Senate races in 2024. Lake, a former television news anchor who rose to prominence after losing the 2022 gubernatorial race to now-Gov. Katie Hobbs (D), has not yet conceded. She still contests she won the election and that it was fraudulently awarded to Hobbs. She has also aligned herself closely with former President Trump, who made similar election fraud claims in 2020 after losing to President Biden. Lake has since hinted that she would be interested in being Trumps running mate for his 2024 campaign. Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) is expected to be her Democratic competition for the seat. Sinema has not yet made a decision, but the Democrat-turned-independent is expected to launch a reelection bid. A three-way race would prove chaos at the ballot box, but early polling shows that Sinemas candidacy may hurt the Republican candidate more than the Democrat. Blake Masters, who ran an unsuccessful campaign against Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) in 2022, is reportedly also considering another bid for Senate. This could set up a bitter primary between the candidates who campaigned together in the midterm election. Trump reportedly told Masters in a phone call not to run, saying hed likely lose to Lake in a primary. Lakes recent political activity has been in the courts, as she continues to challenge the 2022 results. Her legal team was ordered to pay more than $120,000 in penalties over baseless lawsuits in July. She touted strong early primary polling in lobbying for her candidacy. Ive looked at the polling, to be honest, and I believe Im the only one who can win that race, Lake said in July. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. When an ardently pro-Ron DeSantis journalist caught up with Donald Trump surrogate Kari Lake at the Republican debate Wednesday, he had a specific question for the failed Arizona gubernatorial candidate: How are you going to run for Senate when youre already the governor? The antagonistic question and subsequent two-minute heckling of Lake by conservative journalist Chris Nelson highlighted the fiery factions created in right-wing media by the Trump versus DeSantis GOP primary. Why do you lie about Ron DeSantis? Nelson yelled in Lakes direction at one point. Why do you lie about Ron DeSantis, Kari Lake? Lake eventually fired back while preparing for a television hit on media row ahead of the GOP debate. Kari Lake and Blake Masters Have Intense Phone Call About Dueling Senate Intentions Why did Ron DeSantis close his state down? Lake said, according to video footage taken by Nelson. Children had to wear masks to school. In one particularly pointed shot, Nelson asked Lake where she was going to live when they repossess Mar-A-Lago. The Reagan Library, which hosted the debate, eventually revoked Nelsons media credentials over his behavior. One event organizer could be heard on camera calling the reporters behavior equivalent to harassment. Youre no longer allowed to be here, the unidentified organizer said while calling for security backup. Legendary Florida Man and independent journalist @ReOpenChris at the debates, doing us proud by calling out Kari Lake for her forked-tongued, shameless lies about Governor DeSantis. Absolutely roasts her to her face, and it was 100% deserved. WELL.DONE.CHRIS. pic.twitter.com/ShSHp8in08 Josh Power (@JoshPower80) September 27, 2023 I saw security come over and escort him off, a source told The Daily Beast, who witnessed the exchange at the Reagan Library-hosted event. Melissa Giller, the chief marketing officer at The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute, told The Daily Beast that Nelson got the boot over not following the rules. Credentialed media, for security reasons, needed to stay in the areas they were credentialed for although this gentleman was credentialed, he wasnt credentialed for the outdoor area he was in, Giller said. In addition, free speech is always encouraged, but he was heckling a guest while she was being interviewed, which went on for quite some time. After being asked to move a few times, the only way we could finally get him to move was to revoke his pass. However, Nelsons boss at the Florida-based conservative news outlet, The Floridian, Javier Manjarres, is now trying to smooth the situation over. The incident at the debate in Simi Valley was unfortunate, Manjarres told The Daily Beast. Chris has apologized for his unexpected outburst and we as a group apologize to Mrs. Lake and anyone else that was offended. We do not condone this type of behavior and have already dealt with this matter internally. In a phone interview, Manjarres said hes spoken with Nelson and that Nelson took it back in the sense that he was wrong. Hes remorseful, Manjarres said. Still, Nelson hasnt apologized publicly and didnt return The Daily Beasts request for comment. 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. BELGRADE, Serbia One of the newcomers at the Belgrade Partner 23 defense fair was a Kazakhstan-based company that has purposely kept a low profile over the last year while developing a new explosive drone for the countrys armed forces. Taharqa Technologies, a Kazakh drone startup founded a year ago, has lifted the veil off its new project, the NMD multirotor drone. The system, which remains at prototype stage, weighs 2 kg and has an endurance of 20 minutes. The NMD drone was developed for the armed forces of the Republic of Kazakhstan, as part of the countrys ongoing drone program, which seeks to field a wide variety of unmanned aircraft, including reconnaissance and kamikaze ones, Tair Balbayev, chief executive of Taharqa, told Defense News. The executive stated that the push for the national armament project began prior to the Ukraine war, and has accelerated in recent years. In May 2022, for example, the Kazakh border guards received hand-launched Raven drones from the United States to monitor their borders for terrorist activity. The same month, Turkish Aerospace Industries and Kazakhstan Engineering also signed a license agreement for the country to begin locally manufacturing ANKA drones. This marked an key decision, as Kazakhstan became the first state outside of Turkey to produce these systems. However, what has shifted is Astanas ambition to build up its own manufacturing capabilities and mass-produce military strike drones. In regards to the NMD system, the requirement from the Kazakh Ministry of Defense was weapon that can target enemy infantry with high-explosive fragmentation warheads. According to the manufacturer, the drone can penetrate armor up to 10 mm. Although realistically this will not happen within the next year, our goal is to be able to take the NMD model into production in the near future, Balbayev added. This is the first time the Kazakh company attends the Serbian arms fair, and the motivation behind its presence this year was to come to understand its positioning within the international market and secure potential funding. Aside from drones, Taharqa is also designing gliding munitions to be used with combat aircraft to defeat air-defense positions. That weapon is slated to have an 8 kg high-explosive warhead and be powered by an electric motor to allow it to reach ranges up to 60-70 kilometers when launched from heights of 3-5 km, the company said. Kazakhstan will "definitely comply" with the sanctions regime against Russia, the country's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said at a press briefing on Sept. 28 after talks with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz . Tokayev also urged a swift end to "hostilities in Ukraine" and peace talks in accordance with the U.N. Charter. "We need to stop mutual accusations and negotiate to find options that will suit both sides," he said, adding that it is time for "wise and rational diplomacy." Tokayev had arrived in Germany earlier today to hold talks with Scholz and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. After his meeting with Scholz, Tokayev added that Kazakhstan is ready to increase oil supplies to Germany "and make them long-term." Russia has been using third-party countries to circumvent sanctions applied against it by the Western nations in response to Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Some countries have been re-exporting sanctioned goods from the West to Russia, namely dual-use technologies that Moscow utilizes for weapons production. The EU said it is leading active talks with such third-party states to prevent circumvention of sanctions. However, the European Commission also threatened to ban the sales of certain products to these countries if diplomatic efforts prove insufficient. Read also: Ukraine imposes sanctions on petty pro-Russian politicians, yet ignores most high-profile ones Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Here are area restaurants with seven or more priority or critical health code violations, with highlighted links to some original public record reports. Restaurants correct most violations at the time of the original inspection or shortly thereafter. Links to the follow-up inspections show how each establishment has corrected or is working to correct any remaining violations. If an inspection or follow-up report needs clarification, restaurant and grocery store owners can email Jenna Thompson at jthompson@kcstar.com. The Star will post appropriate responses in the same online locations as the original report. The Kansas Department of Agriculture cited these operations for seven or more priority health code violations (direct links to the reports are not available). For complete Kansas health inspections, click here. Nick and Jakes, 22220 Midland Drive, Shawnee, had 16 violations during a Sept. 21 inspection following a complaint. Mi Ranchito, 7148 W. 80th St., Overland Park, had 15 violations during a Sept. 26 inspection following a complaint. Old Chicago, 11969 S. Strang Line Road, Olathe, had 11 violations during a Sept. 25 routine inspection. Aoyama Ramen, 14960 W. 119th St., Olathe, had nine violations during a Sept. 26 routine inspection. BRGR Kitchen & Bar, 4038 W. 83rd St., Prairie Village, had nine violations during a Sept. 26 inspection following a complaint. Lulus Thai Noodle Shop, 7921 Santa Fe Drive, Overland Park had nine violations during a Sept. 21 inspection following a complaint. The Kansas City Health Department cited these operations for seven or more critical violations: Cupinis, 1809 Westport Road, had 12 critical violations following a Sept. 26 routine inspection. Steakm Takem, 7702 Troost Ave., had 12 critical violations following a Sept. 22 routine inspection. Anejo Modern Mexican Cuisine, 8600 N.W. Prairie View Road, had nine critical violations following a Sept. 26 routine inspection. Moti Mahal Cuisine of India, 4113 Pennsylvania Ave., had eight critical violations following a Sept. 26 routine inspection. For complete Kansas City-area reports, click here. The News NAIROBI A $100 million U.S.-backed plan for Kenya to lead a multinational security force to help Haiti restore order in the face of mounting gang violence is attracting growing criticism. Kenyans, Haitians and foreign affairs experts on Capitol Hill have all questioned the wisdom of the proposal, arguing that the intervention is fraught with risks. The Caribbean nation of Haiti has been gripped by chaos and violent crime since the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise. The unelected government has struggled to maintain order as an estimated 200 gangs have taken control of 90% of its biggest city Port au Prince. Prime Minister Ariel Henry appealed to the international community last year for a specialized armed force to help break the gangs control and the United Nations promised to support Haiti. Kenyas President William Ruto told the UN General Assembly in New York last week that international solidarity and collective action are needed to address Haitis surging violence. He said, Kenya is ready to play its full part in helping Haiti fight the gangs and restore order. The plan to dispatch 1,000 policemen to Haiti is backed by the Biden administration, which is offering logistics including intelligence, airlift, and medical support to the mission. Kenya would lead the operation, joined by Jamaica, the Bahamas, and Antigua and Baruda who have pledged personnel. But some Kenyans have expressed their disapproval over the plan arguing that Ruto is acting at the behest of Western hegemony. Mungai Wa Regina, a youth leader and a political activist in Nairobi, told Semafor Africa that Kenyas move would likely violate Haitis sovereignty. I find the decision to be ill-informed coming at a time when cases of insecurity at our border with Somalia are ostensibly rising, he said. Theres also a risk for Ruto, that the funding promised by the Biden administration may get stalled on Capitol Hill. There are lots of questions up on the Hill about who does what with this $100 million, theyre going to need more details, one expert on U.S. foreign affairs, told Semafor Africa. This a fraught and complex situation in Haiti, the person said speaking anonymously because they do not have permission to speak publicly. Since Kenya announced its intention to deploy troops to Haiti, civil society organizations and human rights activists in the Caribbean nation have come out and rejected the offer, terming the intervention an attack on the right of the Haitian people to self-determination and sovereignty. The plan also requires approval from the UN Security Council. Know More Reuters/Monicah Mwangi The gang fighting that has rocked the Caribbean country has this year claimed nearly 3,000 lives, with nearly a 1,000 people kidnapped and some 10,0000 displaced from their homes, the United Nations said in a report published earlier this month. Haitian National Police numbers have dropped to fewer than 9,000 from around 12,000, with many struggling to take on the proliferating gangs. Last month, a 10-member assessment mission from Kenya arrived in Haiti and met Haitian Prime Minister Henry, senior police officers, and the diplomatic corps from various countries to discuss the situation and create a framework for the proposed security interventions. However, more rights advocates continue to oppose the mission. The View From Brooklyn, New York Haitian Americans and Haitians at home are somewhat split on whether a Kenya-led intervention is a good idea, explained Macollvie Neel, executive editor of Brooklyn-based Haitian Times, which covers both communities closely. Many in the diaspora remember the Clinton administrations 1994 peacekeeping intervention in Haiti with 25,000 troops to support the return of populist president Jean-Bertrand Aristide. But some Haitians in the Caribbean country are more willing to get help from anywhere, given how chaotic the situation is. One risk for Kenya will be that it could become embroiled in a lengthy mission. Essentially, what theyd be doing is propping up Haiti for some time while it goes through the process of nation building, said Neel. That would include everything from restoring basic safety and security to supporting elections and helping to change the mindset of an entire generation of young men about their role in their country. Anything less, the gangs and their deep-pocketed backers will just wait out to take up where they left off. Muchiras view It is inconceivable for many Kenyans that a year into his tenure, President William Rutos ambitions would swiftly shift from solving local economic woes to offering to lead a multinational force in Haiti. The paradox is not because Kenya is new to regional or international security interventions; it is far from it. In the past, Kenya has been involved in United Nations-backed peacekeeping missions in Sierra Leone, DR Congo, Somalia, and South Sudan. However, the timing of the present proposal makes all the difference, given the countrys economic situation and ever-rising insecurity cases. A week ago, several Kenya Defence Forces soldiers died in a plane crash in the North Coast county of Lamu while on a patrol mission to flush out the Al-Qaeda-affiliated Al-Shabaab militants. Several such cases have been reported in the previous months despite Kenyan soldiers having gone to fight the insurgents in Somalia. Such reports about the killing of Kenyan security officials, displacement and killings of Kenyans by the militia are what makes it impossible to see the sense in Rutos offer. Besides, that makes his ambitions to be the Pan-African poster child seem contradictory and leaves much to be desired. Room for Disagreement Kenyas decision to participate in the multinational support for Haiti is an exercise of motivational power, said Dr Xavier Ichani, an international relations, conflict and strategic studies researcher at Kenyatta University in Nairobi. While we have security challenges here at home, that does not stop the government from fostering its global efforts, as it will give the country a positive rating and international recognition, which is important for its global image. He added that Kenya was best suited to intervene in Haiti, as it is an African nation that shares cultural values with the Caribbean nation. This is part of Africans standing in solidarity with each other to achieve the Dream of Haiti which is basically freedom for all Blacks, he added. (Bloomberg) -- Former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley vigorously argued with entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and her own states senator, Tim Scott , for a second strong debate performance Wednesday. Most Read from Bloomberg In the second Republican presidential debate in Simi Valley, California, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis struggled to hang on to his status as the lead alternative to former President Donald Trump , staying silent for the first 16 minutes of the two-hour forum. The seven contenders levied attacks on Trump, the GOP frontrunner, President Joe Biden and each other during a chaotic debate. Trump, who again skipped the event, took more fire than he did during the first debate. Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie asserted that Trump is afraid of defending his record, and Ramaswamy, called Biden a hollowed out husk of a president. Here are key takeaways: Haley vs Ramaswamy 2.0 Just like the first debate last month in Milwaukee, some of the most intense sparring occurred between Haley and Ramaswamy, both of whom are seeking a breakout moment. Honestly every time I hear you I feel a little bit dumber from what you say, Haley said, criticizing his plans to expand the use of Chinese-owned TikTok to reach younger voters. We cant trust you. Haley has been neck-and-neck with Ramaswamy in the polls in recent weeks, with each gaining on DeSantis. I think we would be better served as a Republican Party. if were not sitting here hurling personal insults and actually have a legitimate debate about policy, Ramaswamy said. Border Wars The crisis at the US-Mexico border which inflames the GOP base was one of the nights hottest topics. Ramaswamy and Scott both endorsed the idea of ending birthright citizenship for the US-born children of undocumented immigrants, an idea popularized by Trump. DeSantis and Ramaswamy want US troops on the border to stop the flow of fentanyl as well as migrants. Controlling immigration is a top concern for GOP voters, according to a FiveThirtyEight/Washington Post/Ipsos poll conducted last month. Migrant crossings at the US-Mexico border have escalated recently and are likely to remain high in the near term. Border security is one of the key sticking points in the internal Republican dispute over funding the government. Tough on Beijing DeSantis called for taking a harder line against China, accusing elites in DC of choosing surrender over strength when it comes to the Chinese Communist Party. The Biden administration has struggled to lower tensions with China, with Republicans arguing that Democratic policy is too lenient toward Beijing. Ramaswamy asserted that he has credibility to deal sternly with China because, as a business leader, he made the call to get out when other US businesses were expanding there. Haley criticized the federal government for sourcing pharmaceuticals from China, rather than the US. Ukraine Funding Continuing funding for the war in Ukraine pit DeSantis and Ramaswamy, who oppose further funding for Kyiv, against the more experienced national politicians on the stage. Scott and former Vice President Mike Pence said that degrading Russian President Vladimir Putins army was in US interests. Haley said that a win for Russia is a win for China, Pence argued that allowing Russia to take parts of Ukraine would lead China to potentially invade Taiwan. UAW Strike Republicans criticized Bidens support for union leaders organizing strikes against the Big Three automakers. Ramaswamy said that workers should picket the White House instead. Haley said Biden is partially to blame for the strikes because his signature law subsidizes electric vehicles, which include battery parts that come from China and could lead to less demand for autoworkers in the US. Biden and Trump both traveled to Michigan in the last 36 hours to address union members. Law and Order The candidates took advantage of openings to discuss rising crime in large US cities and smuggled fentanyl thats fueling addictions and overdoses two issues that played in Republicans favor in last years midterm elections. Pence said he would push for a federal death penalty for mass shooters. North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum said that stricter gun laws which are more common in Democratic-led cities dont work because crime is higher there. Ramaswamy and DeSantis called for deploying the US military to combat drug smuggling at the southern border. Those Mexican drug cartels are going to be treated like the foreign terrorist organizations they are, DeSantis said. Abortion Abortion, which was a key theme in the first debate, wasnt even mentioned until the final moments. But it gave a chance for DeSantis to attack Trump, who has called Floridas six-week abortion ban terrible. Trump has also suggested that clamping down on abortion is a losing political issue in light of Democrats better-than-expected showing in last years midterms. I reject this idea that pro-lifers are to blame for midterm defeats, DeSantis said. The former president, hes missing in action tonight. He should be here explaining his comments. --With assistance from Hadriana Lowenkron, Michelle Jamrisko, Stephanie Lai, Christian Hall, Nancy Cook, Ryan Teague Beckwith and Gregory Korte. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. FILE - The FBI seal is pictured in Omaha, Neb., Aug. 10, 2022. A sharply divided privacy oversight board is recommending that the FBI and other agencies be required to get court approval before reviewing the communications of U.S. citizens collected through a secretive foreign surveillance program. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) WASHINGTON (AP) Federal spy agencies should be required to get court approval before reviewing the communications of U.S. citizens collected through a secretive foreign surveillance program, a sharply divided privacy oversight board recommended on Thursday. The recommendation came in a report from a three-member Democratic majority of the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, an independent agency within the executive branch, and was made despite the opposition of Biden administration officials who warn that such a requirement could snarl fast-moving terrorism and espionage investigations and weaken national security as a result. The report comes as a White House push to secure the reauthorization of the program known as Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act is encountering major bipartisan opposition in Congress and during a spate of revelations that FBI employees have periodically mishandled access to a repository of intelligence gathered under the law, violations that have spurred outrage from civil liberties advocates. Section 702 permits allow spy agencies without a warrant to collect swaths of emails and other communications from foreigners located abroad, even when those foreigners are in touch with people in the United States. Officials in President Joe Biden 's administration have said the program is essential for disrupting foreign terror attacks, espionage operations from Russia and China and cyberattacks against critical infrastructure. But many Democratic and Republican lawmakers say they wont vote to renew Section 702 when it expires at the end of the year without major changes targeting how the FBI uses foreign surveillance data to investigate Americans. The privacy board recommended that the program be renewed despite being divided about what reforms were needed. The opposition to reauthorization has united unusual bedfellows, bringing together civil liberties-minded Democrats who have long supported limits on government surveillance powers with Republicans still angry over what they see as abuses during the investigation into ties between Russia and Donald Trumps 2016 presidential campaign. A central point of contention is analysts' use of the foreign intelligence database to search for information about people, businesses or phone numbers located in the U.S. Those queries are permissible if there's reason to believe they will retrieve foreign intelligence information. The FBI can also search the database if it believes it will turn up evidence of a crime, though a court order is required to review the results of those queries. A succession of unsealed court opinions in recent months have revealed FBI violations in how those queries have been done, including improper searches of Section 702 databases for information related to the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol and the 2020 protests following the police killing of George Floyd. FBI officials say significant safeguards have since been imposed. In a recommendation Thursday that critics say would impose a significant hurdle and mark a dramatic break from the status quo, three members of the board said executive branch agencies, with limited exceptions, should have to get permission from the secretive Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court to read the results of their database queries on U.S. citizens. The scale of U.S. person queries, the number of compliance issues surrounding U.S. person queries, and the failure of current law and procedures to protect U.S. persons compels the Board to recommend a new approach, the report said. Underscoring the blurred political lines of the debate, the two Republican members of the board joined the White House in objecting to the proposal as unduly burdensome. Those two members refused to sign on to the report issued by their colleagues and instead issued their own document lambasting some of the conclusions. Eliminating U.S. person queries, or making it bureaucratically infeasible to conduct them as the Majority recommends would effectively destroy the crucial portion of the program that enables the U.S. government to prevent, among other things, terrorist attacks on our soil, they wrote. Separately, the White House said that seeking a judge's permission to read through intelligence that's already been lawfully collected was legally unnecessary and would interminably slow national security investigations that require fast action. That is operationally unworkable and would blind us to information already in our holdings that, often, must be acted upon in time-sensitive ways in order to prevent lethal plotting on U.S. soil, the recruitment of spies by hostile actors, the hacking of U.S. companies, and more, a National Security Council spokesperson said in a statement. We urge Congress to continue to work with us on alternative reforms that can strengthen Section 702 this reauthorization cycle without causing the type of detrimental effects to U.S. national security that this recommendation would generate, the statement added. Speaking Thursday at a luncheon at the National Press Club, Gen. Paul Nakasone, the director of the National Security Agency, said the U.S. must balance national security needs with civil liberties and privacy. It cant be out of balance, he said. Thats my concern and just being able to balance that equation. And thats something we always work towards. Jamil Jaffer, founder and executive director of the National Security Institute at George Mason University's law school and a senior Justice Department official at the time the law was created, was more pointed. He said in a statement that the position of the board's majority would create a wall" between law enforcement and intelligence and represent a drastic break from the consistent view of all four presidents to have served since the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks. The Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board was formed in 2007 following a recommendation from the Sept. 11 commission, intended as a way to create checks and balances on the government's expanding spy powers. The five members are nominated by the president and receive Senate approval. ___ Follow Eric Tucker on X at http://www.twitter.com/etuckerAP. After an active week for the rodents, roaches returned as the dominant vermin on the Sick and Shut Down List of South Florida restaurants that failed inspection. Regular readers know how we do this. Newbies, just know that this list is totally reactive. We dont report places. We dont go roach hunting. We dont want to see any rodents that arent animated and being chased by inept cats. We dont do inspections. People from the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation inspect these joints. We just find out who failed inspection in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Monroe counties, why they failed inspection, tell you if they passed an inspection to get back in business and tell you with a dash of humor and a pinch of disgust. In alphabetical order... China Star, 4233 W. Commercial Blvd., Tamarac: Routine inspection, 13 total violations, two High Priority violations. Employees coming out of the restroom flapped their arms, rubbed their hands on themselves or on each other because there were No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at the handwash sink in the employee bathroom. The wall behind the rice warmer and the one behind the kitchen mixer was soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. That didnt bother the three roaches by the hand sink because they were dead. That also didnt bother the live roaches on the wall by the three-compartment sink (two); at the cookline grill (one); between the food prep table and reach-in cooler (six); or under the lip of the three-comparment sink (20). At re-inspection, eight dead roaches (two in the kitchen light shield) and two live ones (one on the kitchen floor) kept China Star dim. Same day re-re-inspection: five live roaches, one of three of them in the three-compartment sink facility ruined this chance to reopen. Re-re-re-inspection: seven live roaches, one on the cookline floor and another under a food prep table, killed this inspection. Re-re-re-re-inspection: Passed. Estacao Do Pao Bakery and Restaurant, 23269 State Rd. 7, Boca Raton: Routine inspection, six total violations, two High Priority violations. First, the bad food. The walk-in cooler that shouldve kept food safely chilled out under 41 degrees had no chill. Or, not enough to keep cheese, ham, sausage, turkey, milk, meat sauce, raw beef and raw chicken from being too warm and pitched into le garbage. Hopefully, Estacao properly covered its garbage, seeing as how the inspector counted more flies (97) than the Miami Dolphins counted points (70) last week. Among that 97 were two landing on a dough machine; 10 landing on containers of pastry ingredients; 10 landing on a shelf over the prep table in the bakery kitchen; six landing on bags of unpeeled onions; 10 landing on (previously) clean pots on a shelf; and 20 landing on unpeeled potatoes under a prep table. Comeback inspection: failed on five flies behind the bar area of the front counter and three flies inside of a pastry display case. Comeback inspection No. 2: 15 flies were counted, including seven landing on the wine bottles at the front counter bar. Comeback inspection No. 3: The number of flies...goes up! The inspector counted 20 flies in the bakery kitchen, 10 of which were landing on food containers. Comeback inspection No. 4: Passed. Maybe they bribed the flies. Hiliary & Sons Royal Deli, 630 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Royal Palm Beach: Routine inspection, 14 total violations, five total violations. Guess the Royal Deli family considers themselves and employees above handwashing seeing as how a cookline handwash sink was blocked by a reach-in cooler and another handwash sink didnt have any soap. Wonder if thats the same reach-in cooler next to the cookline under which 30 live roaches danced. Wonder if they poured some out for their five dead friends under the prep table and one under the grill. The previous days egg salad in one reach-in cooler measured too warm for safe eating. The same could be said of the cheese in another reach-in cooler. Both, basura. Hiliary & Sons salvaged the weekend by getting open after a second re-inspection. KFC/Taco Bell, 8221 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation: Routine inspection, six total violations, two High Priority violations. Counting flies on the wall, that didnt bother the inspector at all. Approximately four dead flying insects on the wall in the back stock room....approximately 10 dead flying insects on the wall at the storage shelf in the chicken prep area. As for the live flies, the inspector counted 24, one landing on KFCs signature buckets. The inspector saw a low boy cooler with black accumulation of residue and 15 live roaches crawling on the wall, floor and packages of single service items. The chicken/burrito mash-up was back open after passing re-inspection. Saisaki, 851 Village Blvd., West Palm Beach: Routine inspection, 31 total violations, eight High Priority violations. This place had problems washing stuff. Hands because there was no soap at the cookline handwash sink and no hot or cold water at the handwash sink next to the three-compartment sink. An employee was unable to turn the water on. Cookware couldnt get really clean because there was an accumulation of debris inside the warewashing machine. The dishes went through a dishwasher that lacked minimum strength sanitizer. Nobody took a few minutes to spray and wipe the cookline microwave because an accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris darkened the appliances inside. Fly sticky tape hanging over food/food preparation area/food-contact equipment. Over by the dishwasher, an Insect control device was installed over a food preparation area. A zapper was on the clean dishes rack next to the sushi boats by the dishwasher. As for the 197 yes, 197 flies that didnt get stuck or ZZZTed, 50 of them were by the dishwasher and the shelves used for clean dishes and three were on clean plates and silverware in the dining room. Four were at one dining room booth close to the kitchen. Another 60 were under the three-compartment sink, which had to create a weird feeling around the legs of anybody using that sink. Stop Sales hit the sushi rice for being too old and white rice in the rice warmer for being too cool. Three flies caused a re-inspection failure. One more re-inspection, one more fly, total of four, caused another failure. This joint finally passed inspection on Monday. Tarks of Dania Beach, 1317 S. Federal Hwy., Dania Beach: Complaint inspection, 13 total violation, six High Priority violations. Tarks is an institution to some longtime South Floridians. And, apparently, the local roaches, eight of which did Tarks the honor of dying there. Two of them expired under a cookline prep table. There were actually 10 dead roaches, but two of them were alive before an inspector watched an employee kill them on a wall and in a short walkway. That left four live roaches. A block of frozen shrimp sat in standing water next to the three-compartment sink. Thats not how you safely thaw anything thatll go down someones gullet. Floor not cleaned when the least amount of food is exposed...Food debris buildup under/around cookline equipment and under the front counter. The soda gun holder at the front bar had mold-like buildup. Bottled water, please. Tarks passed re-inspection the next day. Tokyo Peking Express, 5857 N. University Dr., Tamarac: Routine inspection, nine total violations, five High Priority violations. First off, the name makes no daggone sense. Express usually means a train or a bus. Tokyo is in Japan. Peking is in China and is what weve called Beijing for decades. Theres some water and historic bad blood between Japan and China. Objectionable odors in the mens restroom. Sometimes, gentlemen, youve got know when to say when on the broccoli. Nonfood-grade containers used for food storage in direct contact with food...Cooked egg rolls stored in direct contact with a cardboard box in a cookline cooler. Wonder what the box contained when it arrived at TP Express. Now to the roaches, three of which were dead and two of those inside a tool box. They tended to hide. Over 10 were inside a broken molding under a handwash sink. Four were on the underside of low shelving holding a water heater. One was under a water heater. But, then, there were the 15 on and around the wheels of a cookline cooler. Five live roaches ended the re-inspection. After a second re-inspection, the express was back doing it until they were satisfied. Students in Oxford would often carry swords and use them - Prisma/Universal Images Group via Getty Images Students at Oxford University turned the city into Englands murder hotspot in medieval times, a study has found. Analysis of 700-year-old coroner reports by experts at Cambridge University has discovered that around the end of the 13th century, and into the 14th, Oxford had a homicide rate five times higher than Londons. Three quarters of all murder victims and perpetrators were known as clericus, a term covering both staff and students at the university, which had been founded more than a century before. Oxford University is one of the oldest institutions in the world at nearly 1,000 years old, and in medieval times one of the worlds foremost places of learning. This year it beat Harvard and rival Cambridge to the top of the list of the best universities in the world, according to Times Higher Education. But Oxford was a very different place seven centuries ago as the young, all-male student body were often carrying swords and prone to beer-induced violence. Weapons were easy to find and often used in fights seven centuries ago - Mondadori Portfolio/Hulton Fine Art Collection A medieval university city such as Oxford had a deadly mix of conditions, said Prof Manuel Eisner, Director of Cambridges Institute of Criminology who has launched a medieval murder maps project which includes Oxford, York and London. Oxford students were all male and typically aged between 14 and 21, the peak for violence and risk-taking. These were young men freed from tight controls of family, parish or guild, and thrust into an environment full of weapons, with ample access to alehouses and sex workers. As well as clashes between town and gown, many students belonged to regional fraternities called nations, an additional source of conflict within the student body. Data from the translated and transcribed reports, originally penned in Latin, suggest around 7,000 people were living in Oxford at the time, and roughly 1,500 are thought to have been students. It is thought the city had a murder rate of around 75 per 100,000 people, roughly 50 times the UK average in 2023. Some Mexican cities, such as Tijuana and Celaya, are above 100 per 100,000 today, driven mostly by drug-related killings. The 13th-century Oxford had a worse homicide rate than modern-day Detroit and similar to Cape Town, New Orleans and Kingston. Oxfords bloodiest mediaeval cases Swords and daggers were frequently carried, the scientists say, and fatal melees often were associated with pubs and alcohol. One incident the scientists uncovered was when an unnamed scholar at the prestigious university employed a sex worker and after the tryst stabbed her to death instead of paying. Margery de Hereford was murdered in the parish of St Aldate in 1299 and her scholarly killer was never apprehended. Another sex worker in the city, which now boasts of being part of the golden triangle, called Christiana of Worcester, was taken back to lodgings by student David de Trempedhwy in 1298. However, upon arrival he was set upon by his peers and murdered for his dalliance with the harlot. Quest for justice Other instances of bloody murder involved a mass brawl in a tavern which saw students engaged in a fracas with swords and axes in 1298. A man named John Burel was taken to the town jail after curfew and found to be dead in the morning when the coroner saw a mortal wound on the crown of his head, six inches long and in depth reaching to the brain inflicted by a battle-axe. Cambridge historian and co-researcher Dr Stephanie Brown said juries were often making best guesses about inquests and often found two plus two equals five in their quest for justice. Knives were omnipresent in medieval society, she said. Axes were commonplace in homes for cutting wood, and many men carried a staff. Prof Eisner added: Circumstances that frequently led to violence will be familiar to us today, such as young men with group affiliations pursuing sex and alcohol during periods of leisure in the weekends. Weapons were never far away, and male honour had to be protected. Life in medieval urban centres could be rough, but it was by no means lawless. The community understood their rights and used the law when conflicts emerged. Each case provides a glimpse of the dynamics that created a burst of violence on a street in England some seven centuries ago. 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 Kimbell Art Museum has acquired Thomas Gainsborough s Going to Market, Early Morning, considered one of the finest examples of landscape paintings by one of the 18th centurys most esteemed British artists, the Fort Worth museum announced Thursday. The Kimbell purchased the painting, circa 1773 and worth an estimated $9 million, through Simon Dickinson, London art dealer. In 2019, a private collector sold the work at Sothebys auction house. The painting had remained in British hands since banker Henry Hoare purchased it in 1773. Until the Kimbells acquisition this summer, it left Europe only once, as part of the 2003-04 retrospective Gainsborough at the National Gallery of Art and Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. The Kimbell Art Museum has acquired Thomas Gainsboroughs Going to Market, Early Morning, an oil on canvas painting from 1773. The work elevates the museums 18th century collection, an area of interest for founders Kay and Velma Kimbell. The Kimbell Art Foundation, the stewards of the museum, acquired Portrait of a Woman, Possibly of the Lloyd Family (c. 1750) and another landscape, Suffolk Landscape (mid-1750s), in the 1940s. Both are on display next to the work. Eric Lee, the director of the Kimbell Art Museum, first saw Gainsboroughs Going to Market, Early Morning while visiting England in 1987. The Yale University undergraduate studying art history didnt forget the experience. The significance of Going to Market, Early Morning cannot be overstated, Lee said. Widely published and exceptionally preserved, it has, since its first sale in 1773, been heralded as an exceedingly beautiful work and an important example of a new style of British landscape painting invented by Gainsborough himself. Gainsborough was a lifelong resident of England who studied in London and was a founder of the Royal Academy of the Arts. After studying in London, Sudbury and Ipswich, he settled on the tony community of Bath, where he painted this and other portraits. With his signature swift and light brushstrokes and vibrant palette, he lovingly portrayed the changing British countryside while evoking the styles and stories found in works by the Old Masters, including Titian, Rubens and Jacob van Ruisdael, who heavily influenced his art. Going to Market, Early Morning is no different. In the lyrical and dreamlike setting, five figures on horseback are headed to the market under a silvery early morning sky. Under them is dewy grass and the occasional puddle. Framing them to their right is a tall, mature plum tree leaning inward with ghost-like sheep roaming in the distance. At the bottom left is a woman, believed to be a peasant, sitting on the ground nursing a child and looking up at the travelers. Among those likely catching her eye is one of the travelers, a young woman with glimmering curly auburn hair, holding glistening straws in her saddle bags. Next to her is a young man with a gaping mouth, sitting on the side of his horse, looking at her. The idyllic portrayal of the British countryside is one of the best examples of the British landscape genre. The paintings material quality is masterful. But captivating too are the allusions to 17th century figures and stories, elevating it from an everyday scene to a work with depth and complexity. Its fueled by emotion. The mood is wonderful, Lee said. When Lee describes a widely published painting, hes not exaggerating. One Google search yielded 16 pages of citations just from the 20th century. Along with scholarly studies of its enduring influence on painting, the open-ended interpretation of its story intrigues scholars. Its ambiguous. Theres no single reading. You could say the mother looking at them could be the focal point. Or the woman on the horse is dismayed because she is also a peasant, Lee said. Given Gainsboroughs stature and the quality and ambiguity of the work, the United Kingdoms Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport initially barred it from leaving the country after its purchase in 2019. In a detailed analysis by an external committee, which reviews potential exports of important artwork, the painting exceeded the criteria for remaining in the country. If a museum could secure the funds, then it got first dibs. It had until at least March 2020, or, at the latest, September of that year. Ninety-nine percent of the time the deal goes through, Lee said. But when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the United Kingdoms economy was hit incredibly hard following lockdown. An upending the economy worked in the Kimbells favor. When the export ban recently expired, the Kimbell purchased the painting. When it was hung on Monday ahead of the announcement, Lee and his team remarked they could not imagine it elsewhere. I cant imagine the painting anywhere else than at the Kimbell. Its rustic subject matter fits in Fort Worth and the North Texas environment, he said. The Kimbell is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, from noon to 8 p.m. Fridays and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. Admission to the Kimbell collection is free. Special exhibitions are $18, $16 for seniors and students and $14 for children 6 to 11. A Knox County man has been charged after his 3-month-old infant was found unresponsive Tuesday evening. Treyshawn McClaren, 26, of Henderson, faces aggravated battery to a child charges. The Knox County Sheriff's Office said deputies were called to an apartment at 102 W. South St. in Henderson for an unresponsive 3-month-old baby. First responders arrived on scene and started providing CPR on the infant, according to authorities. The baby was taken to a hospital in Galesburg where its heart started beating again. The baby was then airlifted to a Peoria hospital, authorities said. During the investigation, authorities discovered McClaren, the infant's father, was the only at home at the time of the 911 call. Doctors from the Peoria hospital later told authorities the injuries the baby received were from trauma. McClaren was arrested Wednesday and charged with aggravated battery to a child causing great bodily harm under 13, aggravated domestic battery and endangering the health and welfare of a child. Despite a petition, McClaren was released from custody on Thursday and placed on supervised release by the presiding judge. The status of the baby is currently unknown. McClaren's preliminary hearing is set for Oct. 18, 2023. This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Knox County man Shawn McClaren charged after baby found unresponsive Take a guess: How much Kansas land does China own? Its probably not a lot you probably would have heard something about it if so but it cant be nothing, right? American right-wingers have spent much of the last year raising alarms about Chinese communists buying up farmland across the country and passing laws against foreign ownership, so theres got to be a there there. Right? So: Is it 10,000 acres? Or maybe just 1,000 acres. Or even just 100? Try a whopping half-acre. A pair of Kansas State University economists made that assessment back in April, based on the results of a Freedom of Information Act inquiry with the federal government. That half-acre is located in Riley County, purchased in 2018. Doesnt sound very scary, does it? Nonetheless, it probably wont surprise you that Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach a man who never met a xenophobic McCarthyite panic he didnt wholeheartedly embrace is now pushing for a state law to greatly restrict foreign ownership of Kansas land. And China is the reason hes offering. U.S. citizens and companies must control our own land, Kobach wrote Wednesday on social media, echoing comments he made the previous day before a legislative committee. Its a hedge against the threat China and other foreign bad actors pose to our supply chain and our food security. That does sound scary! Especially if you dont know that China, again, owns just a half-acre of Kansas land. Or that according to a recent NBC News report Chinese buyers have purchased just 1,400 acres of land across the entire United State over the last year and a half. In fact, NBC reported, the total amount of U.S. agricultural land owned by Chinese interests is less than three-hundredths of 1%. Maybe there isnt a there there, after all. Kobachs own numbers, according to his legislative testimony, suggest that China controls about 383,000 acres of American farmland. That number might be an undercount, he said, and at any rate is growing too quickly. There is no question that Chinas acquisition of agricultural land throughout the Midwest is increasing faster than that of other countries, his spokesperson told me by email. But weve been down this road before with Kobach, havent we? The attorney general just loves to wage war against imaginary foreign enemies. Back in 2012, when he was Kansas secretary of state, he indulged the false notion that then-President Barack Obama wasnt really an American citizen and suggested the state needed more information before allowing the president a spot on that years election ballot. I dont think its a frivolous objection, he said at the time. It was, in fact, a frivolous objection. More famously, Kobach was behind a state law requiring voters to prove their citizenship this despite the fact that there wasnt much proof of foreign residents rushing to vote in Kansas. During the ensuing lawsuit in 2018, Kobach said just 129 noncitizens had registered or attempted to register to vote in Kansas since 2000. The law, meanwhile, ended up blocking an estimated 35,000 Kansans from voting. The 129 is just the tip of the iceberg we know the iceberg is much larger, he said. A judge disagreed. Kobach lost the lawsuit and, embarrassingly, was ordered to take remedial law classes. And of course, Kobach helped lead Donald Trumps commission that set out to prove foreign voters gave Hillary Clinton the popular vote lead in the 2016 election. (Trump won the presidency via the Electoral College but wasnt content to leave it at that.) The commission came up empty-handed. Youve probably heard these examples a few times by now. Ive certainly written about them often enough. And yet theyre worth reviving when Kobach, once again, tries to convince Kansans that foreign threats to our voting process, to our democracy, to our very land walk among us. Put it this way: Kobach has a real boy who cried wolf problem on this kind of stuff. Why should we believe him this time? A local Serb man walks past Kosovo police officers securing the area around the Banjska monastery in the village of Banjska, Kosovo on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. Police on Wednesday allowed media into the village of Banjska, where a daylong shootout between armed Serbs and Kosovar police on Sunday left one officer and three gunmen dead. (AP Photo/Visar Kryeziu) PRISTINA, Kosovo (AP) Kosovo's interior minister on Thursday accused Serbia of direct involvement in weekend clashes and was investigating the possibility of Russian involvement in the violence that left four people dead and further strained relations between the former wartime foes. One Kosovo police officer and three gunmen were killed in Sunday's shootout between Serb insurgents and Kosovo police. Eight people were initially arrested, but four of them have been released from custody because of a lack of evidence. Kosovo Interior Minister Xhelal Svecla told The Associated Press in an interview that investigators were looking at evidence linking Russia, an ally of Serbia, to the armed assault. Russian weapons, other equipment and documents suggesting Russian involvement were discovered after the daylong gunbattle, he said. In one of the worst confrontations since Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008, about 30 masked men opened fire on a police patrol near the village of Banjska early Sunday. They then broke down the gates of a Serbian Orthodox monastery and barricaded themselves inside with the priests and visiting pilgrims. The violence further raised tensions in the Balkan region at a time when European Union and U.S. officials have been pushing for a deal that would normalize ties between Serbia and Kosovo. A NATO bombing campaign on Serb positions in Kosovo and Serbia led to the end of their 1998-99 war. What we know for sure is that they (the insurgents) came from Serbia, Svecla said. Some of them are Kosovo Serbs, who have dual citizenship, Kosovo and Serbian citizenship, that, by our intelligence information, were trained in camps in Serbia. We found some documents which lead us to a suspicion that there were individuals coming from Russia too, he said. For the equipment, we have evidence, but for the people we still have only suspicion. There are fears in the West that Russia, acting through Serbia, may want to destabilize the Balkans and shift at least some of the attention from Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russia has voiced support for Serbia over the clashes, blaming the West for allegedly failing to protect Kosovo Serbs. Serbias president, Aleksandar Vucic has denied claims that Serbia was involved in the clash, saying the gunmen were local Kosovo Serbs who no longer want to withstand the terror of Kosovo's ethnic Albanian authorities. Vucic's statements have portrayed the gunmen as heroes, and a national day of mourning was held for the three killed Serbs in both Serbia and northern Kosovo where they represent a majority. After a meeting on Thursday with Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lkke Rasmussen, Vucic described the situation as the most complicated and dangerous so far," blaming the tensions on the policies of Kosovo's government and urging international help to protect ethnic Serbs. Serbia's chief negotiator with Kosovo, Petar Petkovic, demanded an independent investigation into the killing of the three Serb gunmen, saying they were brutally executed after surrendering to Kosovo police. He said that Belgrade has witnesses and evidence, including photographs, but didn't make them public. Svecla said that based on the gathered evidence and drone footage, some of the assailants, who he referred to as terrorists, wore face masks throughout the operation. "Even the members of the group who were arrested didnt know who they were," he said. "So they are either high officials from the security sector of Serbia or they might be directly coming from Russia itself. The interior minister said that the aim of the operation appeared to be the seizure of northern Kosovo with the ultimate goal of seceding from the rest of the country. They had a 100 more uniforms, Svecla said. They were planning to recruit more people within (the communities) where Serbs live ... Kosovo institutions would have to deal with the few hundred terrorists in a scenario which they planned. He said that judging from a large cache of weapons found at the scene of the clash, the attackers planned to heavily arm at least a couple of hundred people. Uniforms, personal armor, Kalashnikovs, sniper rifles, pistols. All this tells us there was equipment for a couple of hundred people together with logistics. It was equipment and weapons for a whole battalion, he said. The danger of a new insurgency isn't over, Svecla said. We dont have clashes, but we have information that training of these terrorists continues in Serbia, he said. There are still people in Kosovo who are part of this group. Serbia and Kosovo, a former province belonging to Belgrade, have been at odds for decades. Their 1998-99 war left more than 10,000 people dead, mostly Kosovo Albanians. Kosovo unilaterally declared independence in 2008, but Serbia has refused to recognize the move. The EU, with the backing of the U.S., has been brokering negotiations between the two sides. In February, Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti and Vucic gave their approval to a 10-point EU plan for normalizing relations, but the two leaders have since distanced themselves from the agreement. ___ Dusan Stojanovic and Jovana Gec contributed to this report from Belgrade, Serbia. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Lake Mead National Recreation Area is inviting the public to its quarterly community meeting to hear about whats happening at the park. The meeting is online from 3-4 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 28, through Microsoft Teams, and can be accessed at this link: LINK: Lake Mead Quarterly Community Meeting Lake Mead Superintendent Mike Gauthier will provide an introduction and overview of status updates on park projects. Other officials will talk about major park projects and road projects. Curator Jessica Bitter will provide a look at the lake museum program. Additional presentations will come from Volunteers-In-Parks coordinator Nancy Bernard and an update on ongoing park issues regarding visitor behavior and associated subjects will come from Chief Ranger Trouper Snow. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. Amid a climate of heightened political tension and controversial statements, Republican U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert of Colorado drew sharp criticism during a House debate over defense appropriations Wednesday. Specifically, Boebert aimed Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness Shawn Skelly, the highest-ranking transgender official at the Pentagon. Boebert introduced an amendment to reduce Skellys salary to a mere dollar, arguing that Skelly was failing at her job and a symbol of wokeism. In her remarks, Boebert went as far as to misgender Skelly, offensively asserting, This delusional man, thinking he is a woman, embodies and espouses the wokeism thats causing significant harm to our military readiness and troop morale. She further argued that Skellys presence and policies were a distraction from the militarys primary mission, urging her colleagues to restore the focus of our Department of Defense, to defend our nation. Minnesota Rep. Betty McCollum offered a solid rebuttal to Boeberts statements. McCollum emphasized the correct pronouns while speaking about Skelly and focused on the admirable service that LGBTQ+ individuals provide in the military. She declined to engage in hateful rhetoric, a clear counter to Boeberts approach. The clash over Skellys role in the Defense Department is just the latest in a series of controversial actions and statements by Boebert. The Colorado representative recently found herself embroiled in a scandal involving inappropriate behavior at a family-friendly musical. Boebert was caught on security cameras at a performance of Beetlejuice: The Musical engaged in what appeared on security camera video to be lewd behavior with her date as the pair fondled each other. Critics of Boebert have highlighted what they see as blatant hypocrisy. The representative has been one of the more vocal members of a far-right faction within the Republican Party, working to block crucial appropriations packages and pushing anti-LGBTQ+ amendments. Yet, her recent actions, both in her personal life publicly and on the House floor, have invited scrutiny and allegations of double standards. Moreover, members of the Congressional Equality Caucus have condemned Boeberts behavior, citing her discriminatory comments about Skelly as reprehensible. Wisconsin Rep. Mark Pocan, a Democrat and chair of the Equality Caucus, said, Republicans claim to support the military, but Rep. Boebert just spent five minutes misgendering and attacking our Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness just because shes trans. Ms. Skelly serves our country with honor. I cant say the same for Boebert. A Channel 9 investigation is gaining traction in the nations capital with lawmakers demanding answers from the Social Security Administration, including a call for Congressional hearings. It comes two weeks after we told you that the Social Security Administration is trying to collect $20 billion in overpayments from hundreds of thousands, maybe even millions, of vulnerable, low-income Americans. Here in Florida, there are about 5 million people on some form of Social Security. People like Jasmine Gonzalez who the government says owes nearly $27,000 in overpayments, pointing to a lottery ticket she cashed for her mother 28 years ago. I think Social Security should really look into peoples overpayments correctly and I think they should correct their cases, Gonzalez said. It shouldnt take 10 years, five years or three years to be corrected, and theyve taken out peoples money and people who already live on a low budget. Read: Social Security has overpaid $21 billion to peoples monthly checks & now it wants the money back Since Channel 9s first report, we have heard from people around the country in the same situation. 9 Investigates talked to lawmakers from both parties, including Congressman Mike Carey who sits on the House Subcommittee on Social Security. I think we need to have a hearing, Carey said. We need to come to grips with where we are right now, find out what the problems are, and fix the problems. Read: Hundreds of thousands of people face overpayment claims from Social Security Sen. Sherrod Brown, who sits on the Senate Finance Subcommittee on Social Security, echoed those comments. Weve let the federal agency know we expect them to stop and not penalize those people, Brown said. They may have been overpaid over the years, but its not like they have a savings account now of those overpaid dollars that they can simply pay back. Hearings and oversight wont stop the claw-back letters hitting mailboxes across Central Florida right now. Read: Seniors urge Congress to reform Social Security before program runs short on cash in 10 years Florida Sen. Rick Scott called for reforms, but gave no indication that overpayments would be forgiven. When the Social Security Administration tells you a number, then they should be held accountable, Scott said. Meanwhile, the union representing Social Security employees said the agency is critically understaffed and that increased funding is needed to help deal with this and other issues, but so far, proposed policy changes have yet to pass amid gridlock in D.C. Read: The expected 2024 Social Security cost of living adjustment (COLA) just got bigger For more than a year, we have been trying to get answers from the SSA on this. The agency has declined our request for an interview but said the agency has a responsibility to try to recover the money when it catches mistakes. Carey said he plans to find out how many people have been impacted by this and that as a federal agency, it should give answers to the American public. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Ohio Republicans and Democrats agreed late Tuesday on new House and Senate maps that will last through the 2030 elections. The maps, approved in a unanimous vote, would give Republicans an advantage in nearly 62% of the House seats and 70% of the Senate seats. Through negotiations, Democrats were able to increase the number of competitive seats compared to the initial maps proposed last week. Under the approved maps, Republicans would hold a 61-38 advantage in the House and a 23-10 advantage in the Senate. There would be three Republican and eight Democratic tossup seats in the House and three Republican and one Democratic tossup seats in the Senate. How do the new House and Senate maps impact Greater Akron? New Senate and House district boundaries would shift across the Greater Akron area. The 28th Senate district currently held by Sen. Vernon Sykes, an Akron Democrat term-limited from seeking re-election to the Senate next year, would no longer split Akron or include Portage County, Tucked neatly inside Summit County, a new 28th would lean 55% Democrat and pick up New Franklin, Clinton and Green in the south and Fairlawn, Stow and Hudson to the north, according to analysis of the proposed map loaded into Dave's Redistricting, an open-source software program that encourages civic engagement. The proposal for the other Senate district in Summit County, the 27th, would throw its current officer holder, Republican Kristina Roegner of Hudson, into the 28th. Roegner, re-elected in 2022, can't run for the Senate again in 2026. Whoever runs in this competitive but slightly right-leaning new 27th Senate district would cover all of Portage County and the southwestern communities in Geauga County. The new bipartisan plan for the House would more evenly split Akron into three of the five House districts in Summit County. The city is contained in three House districts today with Rep. Tavia Galonski, an Akron Democrat, representing the lion's share of the city. Democrats would have a strong advantage in a new 33rd district, which would continue to include Galonski's home address while trading North Akron and Goodyear Heights for Fairlawn. Democrats would also have an advantage, albeit narrower, in the 34th House district currently held by Rep. Casey Weinstein, D-Hudson. Weinstein, who can seek re-election in 2024, flipped his current district for Democrats and has fended off some of the stiffest challenges in the state from Republicans bent on recapturing the territory that includes Hudson and Stow. The 31st House district currently held by Rep. Bill Roemer (R-Richfield) would be a virtual toss-up, according to analysis in Dave's Redistricting, after dropping the northernmost Summit County communities and picking up Barberton, where a mix of voters have supported Republican presidential candidates but Democrats at the local and state level. A new 32nd House district in southern Summit County, which soon will be vacant after Rep. Bob Young (R-Green) resigned effective Oct. 2 amid a scandal involving domestic violence charges, would be packed with Republican voters despite scooping into Akron to pick up parts of Kenmore, Ellet, Goodyear Heights and even North Hill. 'All sides made compromises' The approved maps' Republican advantage is more than the partisan breakdown of the state between 2012 and 2020 when the GOP won about 54% of the vote and Democrats won 46%. Senate Minority Leader Nickie Antonio , D-Lakewood, said the maps don't meet the ideal proportionality but they are "more fair" than where they started. All the sides made compromises, said Ohio Auditor Keith Faber, the commissions GOP co-chair. Ultimately the goal was to get a deal. New Ohio House and Senate maps House Minority Leader Allison Russo, D-Upper Arlington, said: "At the end of the day, we are not achieving what I believe the voters of Ohio wanted us to achieve." Both sides knew the Ohio Supreme Court under new leadership was unlikely to overturn statehouse maps solely because they did not match Ohioans' political preferences exactly. Newly elected Chief Justice Sharon Kennedy, a Republican, made clear in past rulings that partisan balance was not mandatory. Theres every expectation, at least from me, that whatever is put in front of this Supreme Court will be rubber-stamped, Russo said. The vote comes as a ballot campaign, Citizens not Politicians, attempts to replace the seven-member Ohio Redistricting Commission with a 15-member panel of citizens instead. This group is aiming for the November 2024 ballot but must clear the Ohio Attorney General's initial review first. Catherine Turcer, executive director of Common Cause Ohio and backer of the amendment, said the bipartisan maps aren't an endorsement of Ohio's redistricting process, which should be more open to the public. "You can do a bipartisan sweetheart deal." Antonio said the best path forward is to take the pen from politicians and give it to citizens. "This process does not belong in our hands," she said. Redistricting is the process of drawing new state House and Senate districts to adjust for population changes; its typically done every 10 years. Gerrymandering is when one party manipulates those lines to give their candidates an unfair advantage. In 2015, Ohio voters overwhelmingly approved changes to curb gerrymandering, keep communities together and reduce uncompetitive districts decided in primaries instead of the general elections. But in 2021 and 2022, the Ohio Redistricting Commission approved multiple maps that the Ohio Supreme Court repeatedly declared unconstitutional for unfairly benefiting Republicans. "When district lines are manipulated for partisan purposes, the power of the voter is stolen in my opinion, it is the most insidious form of stealing an election," Michael Ahern, of Blacklick, told the commission during a public hearing at the Ohio Statehouse Tuesday. During Tuesday's public hearing, several Ohioans criticized the commissions process: waiting more than a year and a half to meet on new maps, holding three hearings with little public notice at state parks, taking testimony on the Jewish holy day Yom Kippur and drawing its maps behind closed doors. I think a lot of folks share your frustration with the process, Antonio told one Ohioan who testified. Retired attorney Andrea Yagoda presented Republican members of the commission with certificates of shame. I am here today to welcome you to the Hall of Shame. Doug Livingston contributed local analysis to this report. 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: Republicans, Democrats agree on new statehouse maps through 2030 Dr. Phil McGraw and Oklahoma lawmakers held a justice rally for Richard Glossip in May at the state Capitol. The state representative who continues to raise concerns about the execution of death row inmate Richard Glossip will hold an interim hearing on the death penalty next week. State Rep. Kevin McDugle, R-Broken Arrow, said the meeting would focus on whether Oklahoma lawmakers should enact a moratorium on executions during the 2024 legislative session. McDugle said he still has big concerns about the death penalty in Oklahoma. "I support the death penalty," he said. "I just want to make sure executions are done properly. I want to make sure it's pure." The hearing set for Oct. 5 will feature testimony from Adam Luck, the former chair of the state's Pardon and Parole Board; Emma Rolls, first assistant federal public defender; and Andy Lester, the former U.S. magistrate judge for the Western District of Oklahoma and former co-chair of the Oklahoma Death Penalty Review Commission. Other speakers will include Demetrius Minor, national manager of Conservatives Concerned About the Death Penalty; Herman Lindsey, executive director of Witness to Innocence and a death row exoneree; and Robert Dunham, director of the Death Penalty Policy Project. A crowd of peaceful protestors gathered along NE 23 Street in front of the Governor's Mansion in Oklahoma City in 2015 to keep a silent vigil as the scheduled time drew near for the execution of convicted killer Richard Glossip at the state penitentiary in McAlester. 'Right now there is a man on death row who I believe should have a new trial' For more than a year, McDugle has spoken against the pending execution of Glossip. Glossip was convicted for the 1997 murder-for-hire of his former boss, Barry Van Treese. Prosecutors said Glossip cut a deal with Justin Sneed to murder Van Treese in Oklahoma City. In May, the U.S. Supreme Court granted Glossip a stay of execution pending a decision on his appeal. As of Sept. 27, the high court had not issued a ruling. This summer McDugle told an Oklahoma City TV station he believed there was unethical communication between the Oklahoma District Attorney's Council and the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board that resulted in the board, "making decisions on Glossip before we ever had the hearing." On Wednesday, McDugle said he he wasn't trying to eliminate the death penalty but instead, trying to make sure it was done properly. "Right now there is a man on death row who I believe should have a new trial," he said. McDugle said the state has yet to implement any of the 45 proposed changes to the death penalty that were suggested by the 2017 report from the Death Penalty Review Commission. "We are still waiting," he said. Rep. Kevin McDugle, right, and Rep. Mickey Dollens talk about the need for an independent investigation into the case of death row inmate Richard Glossip during a press conference at the state Capitol in Oklahoma City in 2021. That study recommended a continued moratorium on executions. "Due to the volume and seriousness of the flaws in Oklahomas capital punishment system, Commission members recommend that the moratorium on executions be extended until significant reforms are accomplished," the commission said in its report. "Many of the findings of the commissions year-long investigation were disturbing and led Commission members to question whether the death penalty can be administered in a way that ensures no innocent person is put to death." Many of the commission's other recommendations address procedural issues, including better training and a suggestion that would level the pay between attorneys for the Indigent Defense System and those in the district attorneys' offices. "Attorneys, investigators, and support staff employed by the Oklahoma Indigent Defense System shouldreceive compensation commensurate with that of attorneys, investigators, and support staff employed bydistrict attorneys offices in their corresponding counties," the report said. Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond also spoken on Richard Glossip case The state representative isn't alone in his concerns about the Glossip case. In June, following a speech at the Oklahoma Press Association's summer convention, Attorney General Gentner Drummond said he did not believe Glossip would be executed. "I think it (Glossip's case) will be remanded back to Oklahoma County for the county to adjudicate it," Drummond said. "And if that's the case, I predict it will probably be pled out." Luck said it was time for Oklahoma lawmakers to "reckon with the injustices inherent in our state's death penalty." A screenshot shows Richard Glossip as he speaks via video to the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board during his clemency hearing on April 26. My front row seat to the system informs my decision to officially join Oklahoma Conservatives Concerned and to call for a moratorium on executions," Luck said in a media statement about the hearing. Minor, representing the group Conservatives Concerned About the Death Penalty, said executing even one innocent person is one too many, especially in a state that professes to value life. The cases of Glynn Simmons and Richard Glossip, among many others, should give Oklahomans pause and cause lawmakers to slam on the brakes," he said. The hearing is set for 1 p.m. Oct. 5 in Room 4S.5 at the state Capitol. This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Oklahoma Legislature to study death penalty moratorium LAWRENCE, Kan. Lawrence, Kansas police are asking for the publics help in identifying a man who broke into a womans apartment while she slept. According to police, it happened early Wednesday morning near W. 26th and Iowa Street. Kansas City man sentenced in deadly shooting on Amtrak in Lees Summit The 21-year-old woman said she awoke to find a man she did not know inappropriately touching her. The man ran off before police could be called. Investigators say he was a white man without a shirt and wearing khaki cargo shorts. Theyre asking neighbors to check their doorbell cameras from 3 to 4 a.m. for signs of the suspect. Download the FOX4 News app to stay updated on the go. Sign up for FOX4 email alerts to have breaking news sent to your inbox. Find todays top stories on fox4kc.com for Kansas City and all of Kansas and Missouri. Anyone who has footage to provide, or who may have seen someone in the area matching the description, is asked to contact (785)832-7509. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers of Lawrence and Douglas County at (785)843-8477. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. LAWRENCE, Kan. The Lawrence, Kansas Police Department arrested a 46-year-old man who is accused of repeatedly trying to stab another man. Officers responded to a residence near North and 3rd streets late Tuesday night for a report of two men allegedly fighting in the street. Leavenworth woman sentenced for role in 2019 killing When Lawrence police officers arrived on scene, no one was actively fighting, but officers soon learned the suspect had come to the residence intending to stab the 38-year-old victim. Witnesses reported to police that the suspect had brandished a knife and made multiple attempts to stab the victim. The victim and suspect are known to each other, according to police. Kansas City police attempting to ID woman who may be in danger The suspect was booked into the Douglas County jail on suspicion of first-degree murder. He is not being identified until formal charges have been filed with the Douglas County District Attorneys Office. No injuries were reported in the incident. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. A fire tore through a wedding hall in Qaraqosh in northern Iraq on Tuesday, killing at least 100 people and injuring 150 others, prompting anger at the lack of safety measures at the venue. Fireworks were set off at the venue in the Hamdaniya district of northeast Nineveh governorate, the Iraqi Civil Defense said, and an investigative committee was formed to identify the cause of the incident. The hall did not meet safety criteria. Because of the fireworks the ceiling collapsed on the people in the hall, Interior Minister Abdul Amir al-Shammari told reporters on Wednesday. Justice will be served to those who were negligent, he added. Fourteen people were arrested in connection with the incident, Al-Shammaris office said in a statement on Wednesday, stressing that the results of the investigation will be announced within 72 hours. There were 1,300 guests when the blaze broke out, the Iraqi Joint Operations Command Spokesperson Major General Pilot Tahseen Al Khafaji told CNN. The groom, Rivan Esho and his bride Haneen, are both alive and in hospital receiving treatment, the father of the groom told CNN. I hold the owner of the hall responsible for what happened at the party because there are no extinguishers or safety measures in the hall, the father said. Survivors of the blaze were transferred to hospitals in Nineveh and the nearby Kurdistan region, Nineveh governor Najm Al-Jubouri told Iraqi state news agency INA. He said the final death and injury toll is yet to be determined. Mourners carry the coffin of a victim during a funeral in Hamdaniya, Iraq, on September 27. - Khalid Al-Mousily/Reuters People attend funerals in Hamdanya, Iraq, on Wednesday. - Abdullah Rashid/Reuters Iraqis have been protesting across the country against corruption, unemployment and a lack of basic services including electricity and clean water as the country has failed to achieve stability following decades of sanctions and war. In 2019, hundreds of people died in violent protests demanding better living conditions across Iraq. Negligence by authorities has led to a lack of safety measures amid reconstruction efforts following years of conflict. The wedding hall where the fire broke out was covered with highly flammable Ecobond panels that violated safety instruction requirements, according to the Iraqi Civil Defense, INA reported. The fire led to the collapse of parts of the hall as a result of the use of highly flammable, low-cost building materials that collapse within minutes when fire breaks out, the Iraqi Civil Defense said in a statement. Locals can be seen walking through the debris of a wedding hall destroyed by a fire in Qaraqosh, in northern Iraq, on September 27. - Khalid Al-Mousily/Reuters People gather outside a hospital in Iraq's Nineveh province on Wednesday, where survivors of the blaze are being treated. - Khalid Al-Mousily/Reuters The bride and groom are fine Videos from the scene in Qaraqosh show thick smoke billowing out of the Al Haytham Wedding Hall while crowds and ambulances gather outside the venue. A wedding guest told local media the bride and groom were devastated by the disaster. The bride and groom are fine. I was just with them now, but their condition is devastating due to what happened to people here, the guest told private Iraqi channel Alawla TV. Injured guests were also transferred to hospitals in the nearby cities of Mosul, Erbil and Duhok, Nader Salm, a 49-year-old translator from Qaraqosh, told CNN. There are hundreds of people injured, we are in need of blood, Salm said. This tragedy hurt us more than ISIS. At least when ISIS came we could escape, but now a wedding became a graveyard for us. Salm added that he has relatives who were injured and killed in the fire, while others are unaccounted for. Iraqi officials walk at the site of a fire that tore through a wedding celebration. - Khalid Al-Mousily/Reuters Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa Al-Sudani has instructed his cabinet to assist those affected by the fire, according to a statement from his office. The Iraqi leader has been in touch with the Nineveh governor by telephone about the incident and ordered a full mobilization to aid the victims, according to his office and INA. The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq expressed its condolences to family members of those killed and injured Tuesday, calling the incident an immense tragedy. Shocked and pained by the horrible loss of life and injuries in the fire, the mission said on X, formerly known as Twitter. The Iraqi government issued a three-day national mourning period following the blaze. ISIS invaded Qaraqosh in August 2014 during its years-long grip on power in northern Iraq, triggering an exodus of refugees. The group launched numerous assaults on the predominantly Christian town, destroying much of the infrastructure and leaving it in ruins. Qaraqosh was liberated by US-backed Iraqi forces in October 2016. CNNs Mohammed Tawfeeq contributed reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com FILE - A Lebanese Army investigator collects forensic evidence outside U.S. Embassy in Aukar, a northern suburb of Beirut, Lebanon, Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023. Lebanese police said Thursday, Sept. 28, that a food delivery driver who opened fire outside the U.S. Embassy in Beirut last week allegedly did so because of a personal grudge against the guards at the compound.(AP Photo/Hassan Ammar, File) BEIRUT (AP) Lebanese police said Thursday that a food delivery driver who opened fire outside the U.S. Embassy in Beirut last week allegedly did so because of a personal grudge against the guards at the compound. The police said they had arrested the suspected shooter on Monday, identifying him only by his initials M.K. and that he later confessed to the shooting. They cited an alleged confession by him saying he was upset as the guards had insulted him two months earlier, when he came to deliver an order. The Associated Press could not independently verify that claim. No one was hurt in the shooting in Beiruts northeastern Christian suburb of Aukar, which left at least five bullet holes in the wall next to the embassy entrance. Police said that during the arrest, security forces confiscated an AK-47, a knife and the shooter's food delivery motorcycle. The rifle was was allegedly hidden in a food delivery bag and the shooter changed his route to reach the U.S. Embassy compound to avoid Lebanese army checkpoints on the main road. Lebanon has a long history of attacks against Americans. The deadliest one took place in October 1983, when a suicide truck bomber drove into a four-story building, killing 241 American service members at the U.S. Marine barracks at the Beirut airport. On April 18, 1983, a bombing attack on the U.S. Embassy killed 63 people, including at least 17 Americans. Top CIA officials were among those who died. U.S. officials blamed the Iran-backed Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. After that attack, the embassy was moved from central Beirut to Aukar. A year later, on Sept. 20, 1984, a suicide bomber struck the embassy compound in Aukar, killing himself and 14 others, prompting the embassy to close. The United States withdrew all diplomats from Beirut in September 1989 and did not reopen its embassy until 1991. In 2008, an explosion targeted a U.S. Embassy vehicle in northern Beirut, killing at least three Lebanese who happened to be near the car and wounding its Lebanese driver. An American passerby was also wounded. In 1976, U.S. Ambassador Francis E. Meloy Jr. and an aide, Robert O. Waring, were abducted and killed in Beirut. In 1984, William Buckley, the CIA station chief in Beirut, was abducted and killed by the Iran-backed Islamic Jihad group. Leigh Francis has said that he feels sad for both Russell Brand and his alleged victims following allegations of sexual assault against his fellow comedian. Earlier this month, Brand, 48, was accused of rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse by four women. The comedian and media personality has denied all the very serious allegations aimed at him, which date back to between 2006 and 2013. Following the allegations against Brand, which were made in a joint investigation by The Times, The Sunday Times and Channel 4s Dispatches, programmes starring the presenter were subsequently removed from the BBC and Channel 4s streaming services. He was then blocked from making advertising revenue on his YouTube Channel. On Monday (25 September), the Metropolitan Police announced it had opened an investigation into a number of allegations of sexual offences it had received against Brand in London and elsewhere in the country. Comedian Francis best known for his comedy characters Keith Lemon and Bo Selecta has now shared his thoughts on the allegations against Brand. Speaking to the Mail Online on Wednesday (27 September), Francis, 50, said that he felt sad for all involved. I promised myself I wouldnt comment on it its just sad, isnt it? he said. Its a saddening thing for everyone. Its sad for the ladies, its sad for his family and its sad for him. Francis dressed as Brand in 2006 (Getty Images) While Francis has previously been criticised for offensive portrayals of celebrities including Craig David, Melanie Sykes and Lorraine Kelly on his shows, the Celebrity Juice presenter said that he didnt fear facing similar allegations to Brand. Ive been married to the same lady since I was a little boy, he said. I met my wife when I was 19, and I got married when I was 30 to the same lady, so theres no worry about me getting cancelled for that. Following news this week that police had opened an investigation into a number of allegations against Brand, the Get Him to the Greek star shared a video on the website Rumble asking for donations. You now know that I have been demonetised on YouTube fully well aware that the government wrote to social media platforms to demand that I be further censored, he said during the live broadcast, urging his followers to become paying subscribers to his channel at an annual cost of $60 (49). The comment was an apparent reference to a letter written by the chair of a parliamentary committee. In it, Dame Caroline Dinenage (who is not a member of the government), asks if Rumble will be following in YouTubes example and cutting Brand off from advertising revenues. Brand has asked his followers for financial support (PA) Rumble rejected the suggestion, with chief executive Chris Pavlovski writing online: Although it may be politically and socially easier for Rumble to join a cancel culture mob, doing so would be a violation of our companys values and mission. We emphatically reject the UK parliaments demands. Brand joined Rumble in September 2022, after receiving repeated warnings from YouTube over his mostly Covid-related videos. He claimed Rumble was a better platform for his content, as it advertises looser restrictions and a steadfast resist censorship ethos. If you have information in relation to the allegations against Russell Brand that you would like to share with The Independents reporting team, please email yourstories@independent.co.uk 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) The UAW's lead negotiator in contract talks with General Motors on Wednesday issued a scathing assessment of former President Donald Trump hours before Trump was due to speak in Detroit. UAW Vice President for General Motors Mike Booth sent the Detroit Free Press a profanity-laden email about his thoughts on Trump's trip to Michigan. "Let me be blunt. Donald Trump is coming off as a pompous (expletive)," Booth said in an email. "Coming to Michigan to speak at a nonunion employer and pretending it has anything to do with our fight at the Big Three is just more verbal diarrhea from the former president." Trump skipped the second Republican presidential debate to deliver prime-time remarks at Drake Enterprises in Clinton Township, Michigan, a nonunionized auto parts supplier. There, he spoke to workers at the plant blasting electric vehicle mandates and pushing for a "future that protects American labor." Trump speaks to Michigan autoworkers: Speaking to workers amid UAW strike, Trump blasts Biden, transition to electric vehicles Negotiator calls Trump's visit disingenuous Video footage of President Donald Trump in 2017 as shown in the UAW's recent video on plant closings. Booth's remarks came as he and GM negotiators were due back at the main bargaining table with GM leadership Wednesday afternoon, two sources familiar with the talks told the Detroit Free Press. Booth said Trump's visit to Detroit is disingenuous given his past. In a video about plant closings that the union released Wednesday morning, 2017 footage shows Trump promising autoworkers in Ohio he would save their jobs. But in 2019 GM closed its Lordstown Assembly plant in northeast Ohio, displacing thousands of workers there and helping lead to the union's 2019 strike against GM. "Where were his rallies for striking workers when we were on the picket line in 2019? Where are the jobs he promised to return to the U.S. while on the campaign trail in 2015?" Booth said. "The proof is in the pudding. His actions in office went to enrich the very elite few while the working class of America stagnated. This stunt is another ploy to pull the wool over the eyes of the working class. Again! UAW union members picket on the street in front of a Stellantis distribution center, Monday, Sept. 25, 2023, in Carrollton, Texas. As for GM's reaction to Trump's visit, it remained the same as the statement the company provided for President Joe Biden's visit on Tuesday, which is that its focus is not on politics but on bargaining to reach an agreement as quickly as possible. "We have presented five, record economic proposals that address the areas our team members have said matter most, including wage increases and job security," GM's statement read. "We value our workforce and understand the impact a strike has on our employees, communities and the economy nobody wins." Political impact of UAW support The union's support is crucial for both presidential candidates: Trump and Biden. In 2016, UAW members in Michigan helped Trump win the White House. In 2020, UAW members in Michigan helped Biden take the White House from Trump. That's why both men are courting union support in Michigan. Striking UAW workers from Local 1753 picket outside the Lansing National Distribution Center on Mt. Hope Highway Sunday, Sept. 24, 2023. The GM workers want pay increases and the to end the tiered wage system. Trump hasn't voiced support for the union's demands, unlike Biden, who said the workers deserved a good contract. But Trump has said that UAW workers should reject the automakers' transition to making more electric vehicles. The Biden administration and Democrats have a green agenda and are in favor of EVs. The union has supported Trump's "new NAFTA" or United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. It was designed to create more U.S. manufacturing jobs because it mandated that 70% of the steel and aluminum in a car be sourced from North America, and that seven core vehicle parts also meet North American content requirements. President Joe Biden speaks with workers picketing at General Motors Willow Run Redistribution in Van Buren Township on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023, during a stop in Michigan. UAW President Shawn Fain has not endorsed either man for president, saying whoever gets the endorsement must earn it. In a historic first Tuesday, Biden walked the picket line with striking UAW workers at GM's Willow Run Redistribution Center in Van Buren Township, where the automaker stores and distributes parts. Fain joined Biden, and when asked later on CNN whether Fain would meet Trump on Wednesday, Fain replied: "I see no point in meeting with him," because Trump doesn't care what "the working class stands for." "In 2019, when he was the president of the United States, where was he then? Fain said. Our workers at GM were on strike for two months. I didnt see him hold a rally, I didnt see him on the picket line and I sure as hell didnt see him comment on it. He was missing in action. Contact Jamie L. LaReau: jlareau@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter @jlareauan. Contributing: Arpan Lobo and Todd Spangler, Detroit Free Press This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: UAW VP Mike Booth has strong words after Donald Trumps Michigan visit Climate disaster is the real cost I am writing to express my dismay at the editorial written by the Heritage Foundation, and published by this newspaper, that launches a partisan attack on the Biden administrations energy policies. While right-wing think tanks might exist in a world where climate change does not exist, the rest of us arent so fortunate. This summer, Spokane experienced the worst natural disaster in its history, as the Gray and Oregon Road fires turned 21,000 acres of land to ash and razed at least 366 homes. This example could easily be multiplied, as the entire planet has experienced the hottest summer on record and the onslaught of environmental devastation that has come with it. But a passing acknowledgment of the public health disaster that climate change is causing isnt worth a mention in the Heritage Foundations campaign on behalf of oil companies. Instead, the editorials proposal is more carbon pollution, not less, and extracting oil from one of our planets most environmentally and culturally significant areas, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. If Mr. Antoni thinks paying for gas is expensive, he might consider the cost to our Spokane neighbors of having their lives quite literally burned to the ground. Climate disaster is a policy choice, and it isnt cheap. No honest discussion of oil prices can ignore this cost which Washingtonians are paying right here, right now nor the enormous debt imposed on future generations through unchecked carbon pollution. Our communities, our children, deserve better than facile solutions that ignore reality. Michael Bradley, Olympia, Vice President, Thurston Climate Action Team Gundersen is the ideal choice Port commissioner As the Port of Olympia Commission election approaches, its crucial to recognize Rose Chiu Gundersen as the ideal candidate due to her outstanding credentials and unwavering dedication. Roses remarkable work in combating human trafficking sets her apart. Over 14 years, she has immersed herself in policy research and co-founded Washington Trafficking Prevention, demonstrating a deep understanding of the issue. Roses commitment to preventing human trafficking is evident through her support for youth, offering training to professionals and educating youth about healthy relationships. Her collaboration with other jurisdictions highlights her understanding that this issue transcends boundaries, affecting every community, including Thurston County. In these times of pressing social issues, having a candidate like Rose, with both knowledge and dedication to addressing human trafficking, is essential. Her leadership on the Port of Olympia Commission will undoubtedly prove invaluable. As a concerned community member and retired police officer, I urge fellow citizens to support Roses candidacy. Together, we can create a safer and more vigilant Port. Steve Barclift, Olympia Clouse is best choice for County Commissioner If you havent met Emily Clouse yet, youre in for a treat. The Democratic candidate for the new District 5 County Commission seat will disarm you with her intellect, authenticity, and commitment to public service. The former military analyst founded and serves as executive director for CARE, a social services agency that helps previously incarcerated youths re-enter the community. All this at age 28! Since I met Emily last April, I have watched her grow as a candidate with remarkable speed. She is thoughtful, caring, and engaged on the issues that matter most: affordable housing and homelessness, public safety, and the environment. She has done a tremendous amount of research into county issues and campaigned tirelessly. That hard work paid off with a first-place showing in the Aug. 1 primary. During a recent regrettable incident in which two elected officials were caught removing her campaign sign while installing their own, she conducted herself with dignity and professionalism. Contrast that with her opponents loud and repeated nonsensical demands that the Lacey City Council protect his campaign signs from vandalism and theft. Emily shows professionalism, thoughtfulness and poise when talking about issues such as access to health care and responsible land use. Her opponent, a constant and vocal critic of Thurston County Commissioners, irresponsibly calls for the county to defund Planned Parenthood and to abandon federally mandated impact studies for proposed development projects. The choice for District 5 County Commissioner couldnt be clearer. Please join me in voting for Emily Clouse. Carolyn Cox, Lacey McGregor has best experience for Port Bill McGregor, a candidate for the Port of Olympia Commission, stands out as the ideal choice for the role, especially during this crucial period of change within the Port. With extensive hands-on experience in port operations spanning decades, Bills qualifications are unmatched. His concrete track record demonstrates his significant contributions to Thurston Countys Port. Bill has actively worked to create family wage jobs, pioneered environmental initiatives, and successfully led county outreach efforts. Its essential to recognize that the Ports impact extends beyond Thurston County, affecting neighboring regions like Mason, Lewis, and more. Bills collaborative approach has forged connections with various municipalities, including Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, Bucoda, Tenino, Rainier, and Rochester, underscoring his dedication to actionable outreach. Moreover, Bill possesses an in-depth understanding of the Marine Terminal and its cargo capabilities, setting him apart in this election. Experience is the pivotal factor here. Voters should choose the leadership of someone with both business acumen and a genuine community focus. Vote for Bill McGregor for Port of Olympia District #1 Commissioner. Jim Amador, Shelton Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) arrives for a vote on Capitol Hill earlier this month. (Mark Schiefelbein / Associated Press) To the editor: We have former President Trump indicted on 91 criminal counts, and he is running for president again. The lying Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) is still in Congress. Weak Democrats, always seizing the high moral ground, are asking Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) to resign over federal bribery charges. Then-Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) was able to stop President Obama from getting Merrick Garland onto the Supreme Court in 2016 and was able to add two more conservative justices to secure a solid conservative majority for a long time to come. The current majority leader, Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), cannot even get even military promotions through the Senate. When will Democrats learn that taking the high moral ground is a losing proposition in politics? Menendez has made the right decision. He should not resign. Charles Blankson, Menifee .. To the editor: Lest we forget, Republican leadership has turned a blind eye to its own serial liar George Santos in neighboring New York. By the way, Santos has been quoted as saying that Menendez should not resign after being charged. Finally, a little bit of bipartisanship! Jon Rowe, Costa Mesa .. To the editor: This Democrat supports the calls for Menendez to resign amid the latest ethical cloud that casts a pall over his ability to serve his state and our country. I wonder how many who support consequences for this senator would call for another tainted figure to step aside: Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. There is allegedly a trail of lavish gifts that Menendez received as he peddled influence. Thomas has also received extraordinary bounty from extremely wealthy individuals who have business that has come before the court. Menendez is but the tip of the iceberg of ethical rot that is part and parcel of many of the most influential individuals in the country. Oren Spiegler, Peters Township, Pa. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. When does a restriction on asking people for money infringe on a First Amendment right to freedom of speech? That is the question that Augusta commissioners are tackling after being told a Columbia County ordinance on panhandling they were considering as a template is, in fact, unconstitutional. "Once municipalities get into the business of trying to, you know, criminalize panhandling, almost any panhandling statute is going to be unconstitutional," said Samantha C. Hamilton, Georgia Journalism and Access Project Attorney in the UGA Law First Amendment Clinic. FILE - Major Gerald Metzler speaks on the sheriff's homelessness initiative during the Augusta Commission meeting in the Augusta Richmond County Municipal Building on Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2023. The commission is considering options after being told a panhandling ordinance is likely unconstitutional. Asking another person for money is protected the same way any other kind of speech is, Hamilton said. She is currently working on a letter to Columbia County long with the National Homelessness Law Center arguing the unconstitutionality of the law. Augusta looks to Columbia County for inspiration Commissioner Sean Frantom brought the Columbia County ordinance to a meeting of the Augusta Public Services Committee, and then to a workshop last week on the proposal. At the workshop, Samuel Meller, senior staff attorney with the law department, said the ordinance violates First Amendment protections on freedom of speech. Commissioners discussed alternatives and will hold another workshop on the subject. The Columbia County ordinance defines aggressive panhandling as including asking for money again after being turned down, asking for money at night, or asking in a way that could cause bodily harm or a threat of harm, among other things. Columbia County in a statement to the Chronicle disputes that the ordinance is unconstitutional, pointing to a number of courts that have jurisdiction over Columbia County including the Supreme Court and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit. "To our knowledge, not a single one of these courts have ruled aggressive panhandling ordinances to be unconstitutional," Columbia County Manager, Scott Johnson, was quoted as saying in the statement. Hamilton, however, says that Augusta's legal department is correct. "The Supreme Court case, Reed versus Town of Gilbert was really the landmark Supreme Court case that held that statutes regulating content on signs are content based and are presumptively unconstitutional under the First Amendment," Hamilton said. Although the 2015 case was not specifically about panhandling, Hamilton said it has been repeatedly held to apply in cases of people asking for money as well. Within the 11th Circuit, which covers Georgia, Alabama and Florida, the precedent goes back to the 1999 Smith v. City of Fort Lauderdale, where a panhandling ordinance was upheld but only because it applied to a very specific part of the city. Augusta has a similar panhandling ordinance that only applies in specific locations. In 2021, when commissioners considered expanding it, Hamilton joined the National Homelessness Law Center in sending a letter saying such an expansion would be unconstitutional. "As elected officials we are responsible for making the best decisions for our constituents," Columbia County Commission Chairman Doug Duncan was quoted as saying in the statement. "At the end of the day, you have to do whats right for the safety and security of your citizens'." "Really interested in prohibiting that speech" Many times, Hamilton said, panhandling ordinances prohibit actions like standing in a roadway or sitting on a sidewalk while asking for money. But often these actions are already illegal regardless of whether people are asking for money or not. "When governments enact laws that are duplicative, that add an element of, you know, asking for money, it becomes abundantly clear that the government isn't just interested in prohibiting that conduct, they're really interested in prohibiting that speech," Hamilton said. Federal courts often find that even laws which are set forward to prevent specific issues, like people being hit by cars, must prove that the issue is already occurring and not just a hypothetical problem, Hamilton said. If a municipality does pass a likely unconstitutional ordinance, it can choose to repeal the law. But the municipality can also be sued by someone who is cited under the law, or can make a good case they will be cited under it. "I walk down the street, I hear plenty of things that I really wish I didn't," Hamilton said catcalling, loud music, political arguments. "...Am I supposed to wave down the nearest cop and say, 'hey, they're making me feel threatened, arrest them?' No, you can't." Previously on panhandling: To address panhandling in Augusta, officials to hold a workshop, seek an ordinance This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Limiting panhandling free speech issue, says UGA expert CHILLICOTHE In 2021 a group of local veterans helped support those leaving Afghanistan, this group also recently helped others again by raising money to support refugees trying to start a new life. Matt Dresbach is a former Army Captain who served time in Afghanistan, in 2021. He was part of a group in Ohio of veterans working to assist in the evacuation of interpreters and their families from Afghanistan amidst the U.S. withdrawal. These interpreters had risked their lives to help Americans during the war and were in great danger after the troops left. Dresbach worked with an interpreter he knew, Fawad, to help him and others gather needed materials and paperwork. From then he worked with several humanitarian agencies to try to get those who had helped to safety as they waited for the U.S. Embassy to approve VISA applications. After several attempts and attacks from the Taliban, Fawad and his family made it to America, and eventually Ohio. This story is only a small piece of the work Dresbach and others did to get interpreters and families to safety. The process was difficult with volunteers getting little sleep and often losing contact with refugees who were attacked and taken advantage of. During this time members of the group were asked how others could help so they created a fund where people could donate with the Chillicothe Ross Community Foundation which raised $20,216. This money was recently donated to a charity called Rides 4 Refugees which helps provide vehicles and driving courses for refugees once they are safe. Rides 4 Refugees representatives, Matt Dresbach, Sayre Payne and interpreter Fawad gathered recently as a local group of veterans donated over $20,000 to Rides 4 Refugees. Dresbach said the group felt it was time to give what they had raised to an organization that would continue helping those in need. Rides 4 Refugees was chosen after one of Sayre Payne's interpreters applied for the program and told Payne about it. "We liked them and we liked their initiative," said Dresbach. This donation, Dresbach said feels great as they were able to continue supporting those who helped him and other soldiers during the crisis. He said the group felt confident in giving the organization money since they would ensure the money would be used for what Dresbach and others intended it to be used for. Shelby Reeves is a reporter for the Chillicothe Gazette. You can email her at SReeves@gannett.com or follow her on Twitter @Shelby_Reeves_ This article originally appeared on Chillicothe Gazette: Local veterans work to raise money for refugees The south face of the Oklahoma State Capitol on Wednesday afternoon, Jan. 27, 2016,Photo by Jim Beckel, The Oklahoman. State legislators Sen. Julie Daniels, Rep. Judd Strom and Rep. John Kane are skeptical that anything will be accomplished after Gov. Kevin Stitt called for a special session beginning Oct. 3 to address "fairness and transparency" in the state's tax system. While all three Republicans believe in the merits of reducing Oklahomans' tax burdens, they say the governor's idea to reduce income taxes to zero will take more time than is available during a special session and will require public education and support before passage. And they are worried that Stitt's plan for an income tax "trigger bill" could have unintended consequences. His proposal apparently is an effort to ensure fairness in taxation by eliminating state income taxes for all Oklahomans if courts rule that tribal citizens don't have to pay them. "That's $4 billion of the state budget," said Daniels. "That's 35% to 37% of all the revenue we take in, so you would immediately cut government by a third. And we spend most of our money on education, so there would be no way to hold harmless education while you slash transportation and public safety and the Department of Human Services." Both Strom and Kane echoed Daniels' concern, fearing such a bill would cripple Oklahoma's government services. Trigger bill off the table for Daniels "That's just a non-starter," Daniels said. "I don't believe the Legislature would pass such a trigger." As a member of the Senate Task Force on Tax Reform, Daniels said she has learned Oklahoma already has a "fairly low" tax burden among states. "We have in the past done things that do reduce taxes," Daniels said. "Our taxes are trending down, but that's not the same as saying we are going to cut the tax rate this much over this period of time." Stitt has been invited to address the Senate on Tuesday. He hasn't publicly responded to the invitation. Daniels said she is open to hearing the governor's plan to accomplish his tax goals. "Maybe we can leave the room with all of us agreeing to the numbers," Daniels said. "What are the real savings? What do we actually have that we could use for a tax cut? That could be very helpful." Strom uncertain what special session will accomplish Strom called Stitt's move toward a special session "interesting" since no particular piece of legislation was discussed. He also worries about the cost to taxpayers. "It's going to be an expensive special session that I think will not be productive," Strom said. "We could have a situation where we gavel in and gavel out, but constitutionally, we have to answer the call." With tax cuts being Stitt's main focus, Strom worries what losing almost a third of the budget will do to Oklahoma. "We would have to immediately look at what services to cut at the state, whether that be healthcare, roads and bridges or education," Strom said. Strom believes the idea of reducing income tax to zero is worth exploring and discussing. But in the end, whether the government is big or small, it needs funding to support the size the public wants. "I think Oklahomans really need to consider whether we want a system of taxation that is more inclusive of all Oklahomans or whether we want to simply limit it like other states do, to where the onus of that tax income comes from only the land owners," Strom said. Kane supports governor's call Even with concerns that not much will get accomplished during a special session, Kane is taking a positive approach and supports the merits of Stitt's plan to address taxes. "I'm not real optimistic that we can get a whole lot done in this special session, but it might lay some groundwork to accomplish things later," Kane added. "I think he's trying to bring attention that he wants us as legislators to address the tax cuts. And from that standpoint, I support the idea of trying to continue to improve and reform our taxes." Kane doesn't support quick, drastic cuts or a hastily written bill but believes in limiting the growth of Oklahoma's government to the growth of Oklahoma's economy. "There's a lot of things that have to happen to get a bill on the floor for us to debate and get to vote on," Kane said. "We shouldn't just be throwing out ideas willy nilly they should be extremely well vetted and they have to go through the process. He said he is ready to tackle these complex issues at the special session and will continue the fight into the 2024 legislative session. Stitt's call for special session Sitt's call for a special session comes amid a pending Oklahoma Supreme Court decision which, if affirmed, could exempt tens of thousands of tribal citizens from state income tax. Stitt has outlined three priority items for the special session in a recent executive order but didn't single out or offer any new legislation to address his mandate. Establish a legal provision to automatically void a tax if a court deems it inapplicable due to racial, heritage, or political classifications. Implement a personal state income tax cut, steering Oklahoma towards no personal state income taxes. Enhance transparency in legislative budget processes. More: Oklahoma governor's call for special session on tax fairness raises criticism, crickets Oklahoma Senate leadership calls Stitt's bluff In a recent visit to Bartlesville, Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat called Stitt's move "unprecedented." "We just made record investments in public education, record investments in school choice and record investments in healthcare," he said. "We've made consistent record investments in transportation, public safety and we're not going to jeopardize that just playing politics and trying to be cute. And if that's his goal, it will be exposed on Tuesday if he's not willing to show up. We're not playing games. This is serious stuff." In his 13 years as a state legislator, Treat said he has never been called into a special session without some conversation beforehand. "Even when we've been at odds with each other or different ends of the issue, I've never not had the courtesy of being given a heads up," Treat said. "The [special sessions] where there was no agreement or plan were colossal failures." Despite the surprise call, Treat has a plan for a "robust" agenda. "Even if the governor chooses not to show, we'll still have a very long day of appropriations and budget meetings," Treat said. This article originally appeared on Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise: Local legislators: Special session isn't enough to tackle tax reform Students attending Tecumseh Middle and High School were dismissed early on Thursday. Students were let out of school early due to a power outage in the two schools kitchens, according to a social media post from Tecumseh Local Schools. >> Local sheriffs office awarded over $55K to crack down on impaired driving Lunch was unable to be provided to students because of the outage. Both student drivers and bus riders were dismissed at 11 a.m. Parents can pick up their children at Tecumseh Middle and High School. As of 12 p.m. Ohio Edison is reporting that 2,897 customers are without power in Clark County. The other school buildings will stay in session, according to the social media post. Dear Tecumseh Middle and High School Families, We will need to have an early dismissal today, 9/28/23 at Tecumseh... Posted by Tecumseh Local Schools on Thursday, September 28, 2023 A government shutdown is inching from possible to likely as the federal fiscal year ends in just two days. Congress has still not reached a compromise on government spending, and the clock is ticking. If the stalemate is not broken before 12:01 a.m. Oct. 1, the United States will enter its 22nd government shutdown in the last five decades. A shutdown would impact millions of Americans. Beyond the walls of Congress, a shutdown would ripple through various government-run programs, such as federally funded preschool, federal college grants and loans, food safety inspections and more. Here's a look at the longest federal government shutdown and a brief history of its precedent in American politics. What was the longest government shutdown? The longest government shutdown lasted 35 days. Spanning from Dec. 22, 2018 to Jan. 25, 2019, it is also the most recent federal shutdown in U.S. history. It was the third federal shutdown to occur during the Trump administration; the first lasted three days in January 2018, and the second lasted only a few hours in February 2018. The second longest government shutdown occurred during the Clinton administration. It lasted 21 days from Dec. 16, 1995, to Jan. 6, 1996. What is a government shutdown? A government shutdown occurs when there is a lapse in funding, according to the Center for American Progress. The federal fiscal year runs from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30. If Congress does not agree on spending and pass a federal budget by Oct. 1, the government is forced to shut down. During a government shutdown, all federal agencies and services that officials do not deem "essential" must stop working. Essential services include the U.S. Postal Service and Medicare and Social Security services. "Non-essential" work, however, must pause operations, affecting many federal employees and millions of Americans. A shutdown can mean thousands of federal workers furloughed, government food assistance benefits delayed and national parks closed. How long have U.S. government shutdowns lasted? Over the last five decades, there have been 21 federal shutdowns: 1976 : Under President Gerald Ford. Lasted for 11 days. 1977 : Under President Jimmy Carter. Lasted 12 days. 1977 : Under Carter. Lasted eight days. 1977 : Under Carter. Lasted eight days. 1978 : Under Carter. Lasted 17 days. 1979 : Under Carter. Lasted 11 days. 1981 : Under President Ronald Reagan . Lasted two days. 1982 : Under Reagan. Lasted one day. 1982 : Under Reagan. Lasted three days. 1983 : Under Reagan. Lasted three days. 1984 : Under Reagan. Lasted two days. 1984 : Under Reagan. Lasted one day. 1986 : Under Reagan. Lasted one day. 1987 : Under Reagan. Lasted one day. 1990 : Under George H.W. Bush. Lasted four days. 1995 : Under President Bill Clinton. Lasted five days. 1996 : Under Clinton. Lasted 21 days. 2013 : Under President Barack Obama. Lasted 17 days. 2018 : Under President Donald Trump. Lasted three days. 2018 : Under Trump. Lasted several hours. 2019: Under Trump. Lasted 35 days. Just Curious for more? We've got you covered USA TODAY is exploring the questions you and others ask every day. From "Who controls the House?" to "Who controls the Senate?" to "What are the requirements to be president?" we're striving to find answers to the most common questions you ask every day. Head to our Just Curious section to see what else we can answer for you. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What is the longest government shutdown? A history of federal gridlock WASHINGTON - House Republicans worked to establish a basis to impeach President Joe Biden even as witnesses they invited said there lacked evidence the president benefited financially from foreign business dealings of his son Hunter Biden in exchange for steering U.S. foreign policy. Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., chairman of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee, opened Republicans first impeachment inquiry hearing Thursday accusing "the Bidens and their associates" of creating 20 shell companies that raked in more than $20 million, including when Biden was vice president. What were the Bidens selling to make all this money? Comer said. Joe Biden himself. Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., right, and Ranking Member Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., attend a House Oversight Committee impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden, Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, on Capitol Hill in Washington. Yet all three witnesses, including a constitutional lawyer and forensics expert, brought in by Republicans during the six-hour hearing told lawmakers the committee does not have evidence of an impeachable offense - that Joe Biden received payments and was bribed. The witnesses instead urged the committee to open an impeachment inquiry to keep digging. Democrats accused Republicans of holding a "sham hearing," taking marching orders from former President Donald Trump as payback for his two impeachments and ignoring the real crisis: a looming federal government shut down if Congress does not take action before Sunday. Here are five takeaways. Experts say no evidence of an impeachable offense yet Republicans' witnesses said nothing unearthed by the committee so far in its investigation provides grounds to impeach Joe Biden - despite some House Republicans already demanding he be impeached. "I do not believe that the current evidence would support articles of impeachment," said Jonathan Turley, a constitutional law professor at George Washington University. "That is something that an inquiry has to establish. But I also do believe that the House has passed the threshold for an impeachment inquiry." Jonathan Turley, Shapiro Chair for Public Interest Law at the George Washington University Law School, speaks during the House Oversight Committee impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden, Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, on Capitol Hill in Washington. Bruce Dubinsky, a forensic accountant, said he agreed to testify in order to help the committee and the American people understand "how frauds are committed." He said volumes of evidence has been collected, but that "much more information is still needed" to determine if Biden family members, including the president, were involved in "any improper or illicit activities." "As a fraud investigator when I see smoke, I immediately look for the fire," Dubinsky said. "The critical question facing the American people today is whether, behind the smokescreen clouding the Biden family and associates businesses, was there or is there a fire?" Michael Gerhardt, a law professor at the University of North Carolina, said searching for potential high crimes or misdemeanors is insufficient for an impeachment inquiry. "A fishing expedition is not a legitimate purpose," said Gerhardt, a witness invited by Democrats. He said the impeachment hearings appear driven by "partisan animus more than they are by principle." Biden accused of 'lying' about knowledge of son's business dealings Hunter Biden's business dealings in Ukraine have raised major questions about the ethics of using a powerful political family name to make money overseas, but evidence hasn't emerged proving Joe Biden took payments. To bolster their case, Republicans argued the president lied when he said he never talked to his son about his business dealings and when he claimed his son did not make money Chinese sources. "For years, President Biden has lied to the American people about his knowledge of and participating in his family's corrupt business schemes," Comer said. "At least 10 times, President Biden lied to the American people that he never spoke to his family about their business dealings." Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., speaks during the House Oversight Committee impeachment inquiry hearing into President Joe Biden, Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, on Capitol Hill in Washington. One example cited by Republicans came during a 2020 presidential debate against Trump. "My son has not made money - in terms of this thing about, what are you talking about - China," Joe Biden said during an exchange with Trump. Earlier this week, the committee released evidence that Hunter Biden - listing his father's Delaware home address - received bank wires in 2019 totaling $260,000 from two Chinese nationals in Beijing. Republicans have argued the listed address proves Joe Biden was getting paid. But Hunter Biden has lived in his father's house and previously listed the address on his driver's license. "It's very important to follow the money," Comer said. Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, argued that a benefit to your family can be a benefit to you, referring to President Biden, and accused the White House of misleading investigators. Turley said that lying from Biden by itself "would not constitute an impeachable offense," and that the key question remains: Was the president involved? Republicans leave out key testimony from star witness Republicans leaned heavily on prior testimony of Devon Archer, a former business partner of Hunter Biden at Burisma, a Ukrainian energy firm. "Evidence reveals that then-Vice President Joe Biden spoke, dined and developed relationships with his family's foreign business targets," Comer said. "These business targets include foreign oligarchs who sent millions of dollars to his family." Archer has told the committee that Hunter Biden put his father on the speaker phone about 20 times to speak with Burisma executives over Archer's 10-year business partnership with Hunter. In addition, he said Joe Biden attended two dinners with Hunter, Archer and foreign business partners as Hunter sought to deliver the Biden family "brand" to associates. Impeachment witnesses gather at Thursday's hearing. But not mentioned by Republicans: Archer also testified that Joe Biden never talked business with them and that Hunter presented an "illusion of access to his father." "I think you have to understand that there was no business conversation about a cap table or a fee or anything like that," Archer told the committee last month. "It was, you know, just general niceties and, you know, conversation in general about the geography, about the weather, whatever it may be." Democrats: Republicans seek Trump's payback with impeachment To counter Republicans' impeachment pursuit, Democrats seized on their lack of evidence and accused Republicans of doing Trump's bidding as payback for his two impeachments. "If Republicans had a smoking gun or even a dripping water pistol then they would be presenting it today. But they've got nothing on Joe Biden," said Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md. "Despite years of investigation, there is no smoking gun that connects Joe Biden to his ne'er-do-well son's corruption." Raskin cited an Aug. 27 Trump post on his social media web site Truth Social when the former president said: "Either impeach the bum or fade into oblivion. They did it to us," Trump wrote. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) speaks during a House Committee on Oversight and Accountability hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, on September 28, 2023. The hearing is the first formal hearing regarding the US House impeachment inquiry into US President Joe Biden. "Of course the standard for impeachment is not whether they did it to us, but whether the president committed treason or bribery or other high crimes and misdemeanors. But the Constitution is irrelevant to them. What counts is what Donald Trump wants," Raskin said. He called it "scandalous to use impeachment to establish a counterfeit moral equivalence" between Biden, who has never been indicted over his 50-year political career, and Trump, who has been impeached two times, indicted four times, was found in civil court to have sexually abused a woman, and tried to overturn an election he lost. Raskin asked House Republicans how they can "reconcile their votes" against Trump's impeachment for inciting a violent insurrection at the Capitol with their calls supporting impeachment of Biden for allegedly committing a high crime and misdemeanor "that has not even been defined yet, much less proven." Looming government shutdown hangs over hearing The hearing took place in the backdrop of a looming government shutdown that will go in effect Sunday unless Congress passes a short-term funding resolution or budget. Several of the Republicans presiding over the hearing have resisted a deal to fund the government. A government shutdown would have major repercussions. That includes furloughing federal workers without pay, requiring "essential" federal workers to work without pay, halting funds for certain social-welfare programs and potentially closing national parks. Rep. Kweisi Mfume, D-Md., points to a countdown clock with the time left before a government shutdown, during a House Oversight Committee impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden, Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, on Capitol Hill in Washington. This is an embarrassment," Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., said. "An embarrassment to the time and people of this country." The White House and Democrats worked to remind the viewing public of the optics. House Democrats at the hearing displayed a running clock counting down to the shutdown, and the White House issued statements on 30-minute intervals as the deadline draws closer. "There are 61 hours and 55 minutes until the government shuts down because of extreme House Republicans chaos and inability to govern," the White House said as the hearing go underway. "Nothing can distract from that." Reach Joey Garrison on Twitter @joeygarrison. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 5 takeaways on Republicans' first impeachment hearing of Joe Biden Forum on Confucius culture opens in east China Xinhua) 08:43, September 28, 2023 Staff members from the Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine perform Baduanjin, a martial art for fitness purposes, during the Ninth Nishan Forum on World Civilizations in Qufu, east China's Shandong Province, Sept. 27, 2023. (Xinhua/Guo Xulei) JINAN, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- A forum on Confucius culture kicked off Wednesday in the city of Qufu in east China's Shandong Province, the birthplace of the prominent Chinese philosopher. The Nishan Forum on World Civilizations, the ninth since its inception in 2010, has attracted 330 foreign guests, including politicians, representatives from international organizations, diplomats to China, experts and scholars. Addressing the opening ceremony of the event, Shohrat Zakir, vice chairman of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress, China's national legislature, said that the Global Civilization Initiative is a significant guideline for the development and progress of human civilizations, injecting a powerful impetus into the modernization process of human society. In the face of unprecedented changes in today's world, equal exchanges and mutual learning between different civilizations will provide a strong spiritual guide for addressing contemporary challenges and achieving common development, Shohrat Zakir said. He stressed the importance of respecting the diversity of human civilizations, actively upholding its progressiveness, promoting its inclusiveness, and vigorously advocating for the common values of humanity so as to build a community with a shared future for humanity and create a better world. The forum will conclude on Thursday. A staff member from the Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine demonstrates the making of herbal pills during the Ninth Nishan Forum on World Civilizations in Qufu, east China's Shandong Province, Sept. 27, 2023. (Xinhua/Guo Xulei) This photo taken on Sept. 27, 2023 shows the opening ceremony of the Ninth Nishan Forum on World Civilizations in Qufu, east China's Shandong Province. (Xinhua/Guo Xulei) A doctor offers Chinese acupuncture treatment to a participant of the Ninth Nishan Forum on World Civilizations in Qufu, east China's Shandong Province, Sept. 27, 2023. (Xinhua/Guo Xulei) A doctor (L) conducts a pulse diagnosis for a participant of the Ninth Nishan Forum on World Civilizations in Qufu, east China's Shandong Province, Sept. 27, 2023. (Xinhua/Guo Xulei) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) SEOUL, South Korea (AP) North Korea has expelled a U.S. soldier who crossed into the country in July. Pvt. Travis Kings case comes at a time of high tensions on the Korean Peninsula. King was released to U.S. custody on Wednesday. Other Americans have entered North Korea over the years, including a few U.S. soldiers. Some were motivated by evangelical zeal or simply attracted by the mystery of a severely cloistered police state. Others were detained after entering North Korea as tourists. In one tragic case, it ended in death. American soldier Travis King was returning to the U.S. to be released from the Army when he "willfully and without authorization" ran into North Korea. Heres a look at those cases: Charles Jenkins Born in Rich Square, North Carolina, Charles Jenkins was one of the few Cold War-era U.S. soldiers who fled to North Korea while serving in the South. Jenkins, then an Army sergeant, deserted his post in 1965 and fled across the Demilitarized Zone separating the two Koreas. North Korea treated Jenkins as a propaganda asset, showcasing him in leaflets and films. In 1980, Jenkins married 21-year-old Hitomi Soga, a Japanese nursing student who had been abducted by North Korean agents in 1978. Soga was allowed to return to Japan in 2002. In 2004, Jenkins was allowed to leave North Korea and rejoin her. Once in Japan, he surrendered to U.S. military authorities and faced charges that he abandoned his unit and defected to North Korea. He was dishonorably discharged and sentenced to 25 days in a U.S. military jail in Japan. He died in Japan in 2017. Bruce Byron Lowrance Its clear that North Koreas handling of American detainees is influenced by the state of its relations with Washington. Bruce Byron Lowrance benefited from cozy diplomacy in 2018 between then-U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who met for a summit in June that year. Five months later, North Korea announced it was expelling Lowrance who had entered the country illegally through China. North Koreas decision to deport Lowrance after only a month of confinement was remarkably quick by the countrys standards, apparently reflecting an eagerness to keep alive a positive atmosphere for dialogue with the United States. During the buildup to the Trump-Kim summit in June, North Korea released three American detainees Kim Dong Chul, Tony Kim and Kim Hak Song who returned to home on a plane with then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. However, the diplomacy broke down after the second Trump-Kim summit in February 2019, when the Americans rejected North Korean demands for major sanctions relief in exchange for a partial surrender of its nuclear capabilities. Matthew Miller In September 2014, Matthew Miller was sentenced to six years of hard labor by North Koreas Supreme Court on charges that he illegally entered the country for spying purposes. The court claimed that Miller, from Bakersfield, California, tore up his tourist visa upon arriving at Pyongyangs airport in April that year and admitted to a wild ambition of experiencing North Korean prison life so that he could secretly investigate the countrys human rights conditions. North Koreas initial announcement about Millers detainment came as then-President Barack Obama was traveling in South Korea on a state visit. Miller was freed in November along with another American, Kenneth Bae , a missionary and tour leader. Weeks before his release, Miller talked with The Associated Press at a Pyongyang hotel where North Korean officials allowed him to call his family. Miller said he was digging in fields eight hours a day and being kept in isolation. Kenneth Bae Bae, a Korean-American missionary from Lynnwood, Washington, was arrested in November 2012 while leading a tour group in a special North Korean economic zone. North Korea sentenced Bae to 15 years in prison for hostile acts, including smuggling in inflammatory literature and attempting to establish a base for anti-government activities at a hotel in a border town. Baes family said he suffered from chronic health issues, including back pain, diabetes, and heart and liver problems. Bae returned to the United States in November 2014 following a secret mission by James Clapper, then-U.S. director of national intelligence, who also secured Millers release. Jeffrey Fowle A month before Baes and Millers release, North Korea also freed Jeffrey Fowle, an Ohio municipal worker who was detained for six months for leaving a Bible in a nightclub in the city of Chongjin. Fowles release followed negotiations that involved retired diplomat and former Ohio Congressman Tony Hall. While North Korea officially guarantees freedom of religion, analysts and defectors describe the country as strictly anti-religious. The distribution of Bibles and secret prayer services can mean imprisonment or execution, defectors say. In 2009, American missionary Robert Park walked into North Korea with a Bible in his hand to draw attention to North Koreas human rights abuses. Park, who was deported from the North in February 2010, has said he was tortured by authorities. Otto Warmbier Otto Warmbier, a 22-year-old University of Virginia student, died in June 2017, shortly after he was flown home in a coma after 17 months in North Korean captivity. Warmbier was seized by North Korean authorities from a tour group in January 2016 and convicted on charges of trying to steal a propaganda poster and sentenced to 15 years of hard labor. While not providing a clear reason for Warmbiers brain damage, North Korea denied accusations by Warmbiers family that he was tortured and insisted that it had provided him medical care with all sincerity. The North accused the United States of a smear campaign and claimed itself as the biggest victim in his death. In 2022, a U.S. federal judge in New York ruled that Warmbiers parents Fred and Cindy Warmbier should receive $240,300 seized from a North Korean bank account that would be a partial payment toward the more than $501 million they were awarded in 2018 by a federal judge in Washington. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: A look at other Americans who have entered North Korea over the yea At dawn on Wednesday, French antitrust authorities conducted a surprise raid on a company in the country that specializes in graphics cards and according to The Wall Street Journal and Challenges business magazine, that company was NVIDIA. We reached out to NVIDIA for clarification and a spokesperson declined to comment. Here's what we know for sure: The French Competition Authority conducted a surprise raid early Wednesday morning on "a company suspected of having implemented anticompetitive practices in the graphics cards sector," according to a brief press release from the regulator. The raid was tied to a larger investigation into the health of the cloud computing market, with a focus on identifying whether new companies were being unfairly squeezed out by larger, existing ones. The results of that investigation were published in June and they centered on three "hyperscalers," Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud and Microsoft Azure. The results read, in part, "The likelihood of a new operator being able to gain market share rapidly appears limited, excluding companies who are already powerful in other digital markets." NVIDIA is not mentioned in the original cloud investigation. NVIDIA has seen significant financial success this year amid the AI boom. NVIDIA's AI chips and data centers are in high demand, and the company crushed its most recent earnings expectations, pulling in $13.51 billion in the second quarter of 2023, compared with $6.7 billion in 2022. As the French Competition Authority noted, a raid does not mean the targeted company is guilty of anticompetitive practices but it's a confident step from the regulatory body. National parks and nearby communities could forgo millions of dollars per day during a partial government shutdown that could start this weekend. Would-be visitors will likely see restrictions on park access, though the extent of those restrictions was still unclear just days before a potential lapse in federal appropriations set to begin Sunday. Parks would lack the regular funds used for daily operations, but some could be covered temporarily by states or other funding sources. The National Park Service furloughed about seven out of every eight workers during shutdowns in October 2013 and December 2018-January 2019, according to a report last week from the Congressional Research Service. But the Interior Department took different approaches to visitor access in each shutdown under presidents of different parties. In 2013, under Democratic President Barack Obama, parks were closed to the extent possible, and visitors asked to leave. Concessionaires inside parks closed and park roads, where possible, were blocked. In 2018 and 2019, under Republican Donald Trump, most parks remained at least partially open with services reduced. In part, that approach relied on visitor fees, which was legally dubious. It also left visitors without access to even basic services like restrooms and trash removal. That move also left parks severely understaffed and irresponsibly put visitor health and safety and the wellbeing of the parks themselves at risk, said John Garder, senior director for budget and appropriations at the advocacy group National Parks Conservation Association. The decision of the last administration to keep parks open using fees was reckless, Garder said. The parks had limited resources to educate visitors, he said. Some used sensitive areas of Joshua Tree National Park for camping, damaging the parks delicate namesake flora, he said. Storm clouds roll in over Mount Rushmore on Thursday, July 2. No shutdown plan online But the Interior Department has not updated its plan of action in the event of a shutdown as a funding lapse approaches. The 2019 plan has been removed from a White House Office of Management and Budget web page listing all current agency and department shutdown plans but had not been replaced by Tuesday afternoon. When the Department has final lapse plans, they will be published, Interior spokesperson Melissa Schwartz wrote in a Monday email. Department spokespeople declined further comment. NPS parkways, such as the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and Virginia, would likely stay open because of the difficulty in closing them. Government funding is set to lapse Oct. 1. The U.S. House Republican Conference, which controls that chamber, has shown little progress in resolving internal disputes about whether and how to reduce federal spending, leaving negotiations over regular spending bills as well as a short-term stop-gap measure to keep the government open at a standstill. Four bison were recently released into a new area in Badlands National Park. Bison had not been in the expanded range for more than 150 years. Lost revenue and research If park access is severely restricted, every day of a shutdown next month could result in 1 million fewer visitors to national parks, Garder said. Visitors seeking to enter many parks including those on long-planned trips or celebrating weddings and other special events would likely be turned away, Garder said. It would also mean a roughly $70 million per day loss for so-called gateway communities outside park boundaries whose economies largely depend on tourism, according to the NPCA. Its deeply disappointing for visitors, but its alarming and disheartening for those who worry about their bottom lines, and for park employees, whose morale is deeply affected, Garder said. Badlands National Park in South Dakota. Senate Republican calls for parks to stay open U.S. Sen. John Barrasso, a Wyoming Republican and ranking member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee that has jurisdiction over the Park Service, wrote to Interior Secretary Deb Haaland last week asking to use visitor fees to cover operational costs during a shutdown. The NPS used fees collected under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act to keep parks open to visitors during the last shutdown and could do so again, he said. Your judicious use of FLREA fees will protect the millions of people who plan and save for trips to these special places, ensure that gateway communities that rely on park visitation for jobs and economic stabilities do not needless suffer, and sustain the dedicate National Park Service employees who rely on a regular paycheck, Barrasso wrote. But the Trump administrations use of those funds was illegal, the Government Accountability Office found, as those fees were supposed to be used for other purposes. State funding? In previous shutdowns, states have signed memoranda of understanding with the federal government to allow state funds to cover park costs and keep them open, Garder said. In Arizona, Gov. Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, said last week she would sign an executive order to use state lottery revenue to keep Grand Canyon National Park open during a shutdown, according to The Associated Press. Republican Gov. Doug Ducey spent about $200,000 to keep that park open in 2019. While on sounder legal footing than using entrance fees, Garder said state partnerships do not excuse federal lawmakers from passing a spending law. Its certainly not a long-term solution, he said. Major National Park Service sites in South Dakota This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: How a looming government shutdown could hit South Dakota national parks As part of Chad Lequires normal routine, he walked into a convenience store and bought a lottery ticket for one of his favorite games, he told North Carolina officials. His normal routine ended in an out-of-the-ordinary win on Sept. 27. Lequires $10 Big Bucks Bingo ticket landed him the jackpot of $827,330, North Carolina Education Lottery officials said in a Sept. 28 news release. Ive never won anything big like this before, Lequire said. The Whittier resident plans to use the winnings to buy a new home for his family, he told lottery officials. Hell also use some of the money to pay bills and help his family. Big Bucks Bingo has a progressive jackpot, which increases until someone wins, according to the North Carolina lottery site. Lequires $10 Fast Play ticket won him the full jackpot. He bought his winning ticket in the early morning at PJs Fast Food Mart in Sylva, and before the end of the day he had claimed his prize. After taxes, he walked away with nearly $590,000, officials said. I still cant believe it right now to be honest with you, Lequire said. Whittier is 170 miles west of Charlotte. 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. $1 lottery ticket scores Michigan dad a life-changing multi-million dollar prize Woman couldnt sleep, so she checks Missouri lottery numbers. Thought I was dreaming Lottery player kept winning and winning online game then she saw this big number Life-changing lottery win brings SC man to his knees. He wants to spread the wealth FILE- Indian lawmaker M.S.Swaminathan addresses a press conference in New Delhi, India, July 31, 2007. Swaminathan, a renowned agricultural scientist who revolutionized Indias farming and was a key architect of the countrys Green Revolution died Thursday. He was 98. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) NEW DELHI (AP) Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan, a renowned agricultural scientist who revolutionized Indias farming and was a key architect of the countrys Green Revolution died Thursday. He was 98. Swaminathan died at his home in southern Chennai city after an age-related illness, news agency Press Trust of India reported. In the late 1960s and 1970s, the agriculturalist was instrumental in bringing industrial farming to India, making the country self-sufficient in food and reducing widespread hunger. Indias Green Revolution," as it was known, turned the northern states of Punjab and Haryana into breadbaskets for wheat and rice production, helping low-income farmers. The initiative, now dubbed as a transformational era in Indian agriculture, introduced high-yielding cereal varieties and expanded use of irrigation and fertilizers. Grain production increased exponentially, at a time when India was beset with widespread starvation. For his work, Swaminathan was named one of the 20 most influential Asians of the 20th century by Time magazine. Swaminathan also held administrative positions in various agricultural research institutes in India and served as a top planner at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research between 1972 and 1979. He received the Padma Shri, one of the Indian governments top honors, in 1967. Swaminathan also served as a lawmaker in Indias upper house of the Parliament. A suspect is in custody after a shooting broke out at a protest in New Mexico over the installation of a statue of a conquistador, leaving at least one person in the hospital, authorities said Thursday. The gunman, reportedly seen earlier in the day sporting a red Make America Great Again hat was collared by sheriffs deputies shortly after fleeing the scene in a white Tesla, according to the Albuquerque Journal. The newspaper reported that he identified himself to a Journal photographer on the scene as Ryan Martinez prior to the shooting, and that he allegedly shot a Native American man following a scuffle. The Rio Arriba County Sheriffs Office also identified the suspect as a Ryan Martinez, 23, according to local station KRQE. A state police spokesperson did not immediately return The Daily Beasts requests for comment. The injured man, who authorities said suffered a gunshot wound to the upper torso area near the chest, was taken away from the scene in an ambulance and was being treated at a local hospital. Roughly five dozen people were in the area for the Espanola rally, according to the Journal, gathering to weigh in on a controversial statue of the conquistador Juan de Onate. The statue of Onate, New Mexicos first colonial governor and the man who instigated a massacre of hundreds of Native Americans in 1599, was removed and placed in storage in 2020. It was meant to be reinstalled this week, until a successful push by activists convinced local officials to delay the move. The Thursday rally was billed as a celebration by those activists, the Journal reported. .@ABQJournal photographer @EddieMoore8 captures this photo of the shooter at the rally against a Juan de Onate statue in northern New Mexico. Here's what we know: https://t.co/CZra8YWLtR #breakingnews #newmexico #shooting pic.twitter.com/qZhles3MW8 Lucas Peerman (@LucasPeerman) September 28, 2023 The shooting occurred after an altercation broke out among the protesters and counter-protesters, according to the Journal. Prior to the disturbance, The man who identified himself as Martinez was photographed by the newspapers photographer in a Make America Great Again hat and a distinct teal hoodie. In a subsequent image captured mid-shooting, a man who appears to be Martinez in the same teal hoodiebut with no hatcan be seen pointing a handgun, with at least one person in the foreground seen scrambling for cover. In the description of a Facebook profile that matched details of Martinezs identity, the user wrote, Fuck The Chinese Communist Party and Fuck Joe Biden. TRUMP WON. (pre law major). The profiles most recent post, made Tuesday, referenced the reinstallation of the Onate statue. It was not the first time that a statue of the conquistador precipitated a shooting in New Mexico. One person was wounded after being shot during a protest in Albuquerques Old Town in June 2020. The gunman, Stephen Baca, argued hed shot the victim in self-defense, and pleaded to lesser charges in a deal that saw his felony shooting charge dismissed. 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. If Congress cant agree on a way to continue funding the federal government by Saturday, many government services across the country will cease. A government shutdown amounts to a suspension of many government operations until Congress acts to restore funding, writes New York Times reporter Zach Montague. The federal government has shut down 21 times in the last five decades, according to The Hill. In 2018, the longest and most recent shutdown affected about 800,000 of the federal governments 2.1 million employees for 34 days. What happens in Texas when the federal government shuts down? When will the shutdown start? Without a funding plan, a shutdown would take effect at 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 1. It would lead to nonessential federal functions getting suspended and in millions of federal employees not getting paid. Will Social Security checks continue to be sent out? Social Security and other mandatory government payments would continue going out, but various other parts of the government could be affected. National parks: One the most visible impacts of a government shutdown is the temporary shuttering of national parks. Texas has 14 areas managed by the National Park Service, including parks, historic sites and preserves. There are two national parks in Texas, Big Bend and the Guadalupe Mountains. According to the U.S. National Park Service website, there are 5.7 million visitors to national parks in Texas, making $481.4 million of economic benefit from national park tourism. Federal Courthouse: Colt Fisher, the chief deputy of operations for the United States District Court in the Northern District of Texas, told the Star-Telegram The judiciary will continue to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities to the public notwithstanding a lapse in appropriations. Courthouses will remain open. Also, the Case Management/Electronic Case Files (CM/ECF) system will be operational for electronic filing of documents. Most proceedings and deadlines will occur as scheduled. However, in cases that involve attorneys from Executive Branch agencies who are furloughed, hearing and filing dates may be rescheduled as determined by the court. The court will post public notices if any services are stopped or delayed. Nutrition and immunization assistance: Several government programs could cause more severe issues if stopped, one being nutrition and immunization assistance from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children. If funding lapses, nearly 7 million women and children could lose needed access to food and the federal contingency fund to keep the program going could run out within days, per the New York Times. If we have a shutdown, WIC shuts down, and that means the nutrition assistance to those moms and young children shuts down, Tom Vilsack, the agriculture secretary, said on Monday. Will post offices close? Postal Service operations will not be interrupted in the event of a government shutdown, and all Post Offices will remain open for business as usual, said Carol Hunt, a Texas spokesperson for the U. S. Postal Service. Because we are an independent entity that is generally funded through the sale of our products and services, and not by tax dollars, our services will not be impacted by a government shutdown. Democratic lawmakers asked federal student-loan companies to provide data on their plans for repayment. One company, MOHELA, said it anticipates "extensive servicing delays" due to a lack of resources. MOHELA also said it received 36,309 complaints from borrowers over the past year. A major student-loan company that services over 7 million borrowers isn't too confident about its preparedness to enter repayment in a few days. On Thursday, Sen. Elizabeth Warren sent letters to the CEOs of four federal loan servicers regarding their plans to bring borrowers back into repayment beginning in October. Included in those letters were responses from the four companies MOHELA, EdFinancial, Maximus, and Nelnet on data they provided to Warren and five of her Democratic colleagues in August on their communications with borrowers at that point. One of those companies, MOHELA, cautioned the lawmakers that repayment is unlikely to be as smooth as they might have hoped. MOHELA is responsible for managing the Public Service Loan Forgiveness portfolio, and according to data it provided, it expects to service 7,762,516 borrowers by October 1. However, it anticipates it will not be able to help all of those borrowers in a timely manner due to funding and resource constraints. The company said it currently has 474 customer service representatives, with another 606 in various stages of training, and it has a projected need of 1,177 in October. However, MOHELA said that Federal Student Aid's "demands have been changing rapidly" due to litigation results like the Supreme Court striking down President Joe Biden's broad student-debt relief plan and the requirement for a higher level of training for customer service representatives has strained the company's budget, it said. "We are now facing a return-to-repayment set to bring an unprecedented surge in activity in the near future, one which is expected to last well into 2024," MOHELA said. "While MOHELA is regularly assessing the situation, were MOHELA to move forward with further expanded staffing at its own expense, especially given the wildly fluctuating demands on our staff, the added personnel would threaten MOHELA's financial stability," it added. "Unfortunately, the immediate of return-to-repayment amid ever-increasing changes to the contract administration requirements and expanded training needs, combined with the lack of sufficient funding from FSA, means extensive servicing delays are a likely outcome." In Warren's Thursday letter, she pushed back on MOHELA's budget complaints, saying that she's "skeptical of [servicers'] claim that insufficient funding is keeping them from fulfilling their most foundational obligation considering that they were paid on average approximately $2 a month per account amounting to billions of dollars, while payments, interest, and collections were suspended during the public health emergency." Many borrowers have already been experiencing the customer service issues MOHELA mentioned. Not only have borrowers spent hours on hold with their servicer some of them have also received inaccurate payment statements, prompting them to file complaints. MOHELA said that from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 it received 36,309 complaints. That's compared to the 3,469 complaints Maximus, another servicer, received, and 3,063 from servicer EdFinancial. Nelnet a different federal servicer however, said in its response to the lawmakers that the "unprecedented situation we currently find ourselves in" has prevented it from delivering data on the habits of student-loan borrowers, and it said "the current environment presents challenges in being aware of the number of borrowers we will be servicing." "We do not yet have insight into potential relief programs that the government may enact and, therefore, are unsure how they may affect the number of borrowers we service," Nelnet said. It's clear some servicers are concerned about their abilities to manage this transition back into repayment and borrowers will likely suffer the consequences. Read the original article on Business Insider A man accused of firing at officers in Shelby earlier this year has been arrested by U.S. Marshals in Lexington County. Shelby police told Channel 9s Ken Lemon the incident in Shelby happened on March 29. After an officer stopped a car in Shelby, its passenger jumped out with guns and started firing into the windshield. The officer was able to dive for cover. The suspected shooter, 30-year-old Antonio Dontre Brooks, ran off. On Thursday, police in Lexington announced Brooks arrest, saying he had been living at a home on South State Street. They took him into custody after a two-hour standoff and turned him over to federal marshals. ALSO READ: Shelby police chief reflects on 30-year career before retiring Inside the home, Lexington police found two guns while carrying out a search warrant. Lemon learned Brooks was wanted in multiple jurisdictions for violent crimes over the last two years. Shelby police said Brooks was on federal probation at the time of the March shooting. Lemon is working to learn what for, but he did learn from Shelby police that Brooks was arrested in the late 2010s in connection to a massive federal gang roundup. According to police, Brooks faces attempted murder charges out of Gaffney, South Carolina. He also faces charges out of Cleveland County for a shooting in September 2022. There were warrants out for his arrest at the time of the March shooting, police said. Lexington police said the charges Brooks was wanted on include attempted murder of a law enforcement officer (Shelby police), assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury, discharging a firearm into an occupied dwelling, discharging a firearm into an enclosure, and two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. (WATCH BELOW: Family, officers gather to honor Shelby officer killed while on duty 7 years ago) The man awaiting federal trial in connection with the kidnapping and sexual assault of a woman whom he allegedly held captive in a makeshift cinder block cell in Oregon faces similar allegations in a separate case, court records show. Negasi Zuberi was indicted last week on multiple felony counts in the new case in Oregon, including first-degree rape, sexual abuse, kidnapping and assault, according to online court records in Klamath County. Additional details about the charges were not immediately available. The Klamath County District Attorney's Office declined to comment. The new case was filed a little over a month after state authorities charged Zuberi with second-degree attempted escape and first-degree disorderly conduct in connection with a failed effort to flee from an Oregon jail where he has been held. The interior of a cinder block cell where Negasi Zuberi allegedly held a woman captive at his home in Klamath Falls, Ore. (FBI Oregon) Federal authorities arrested Zuberi in July, alleging he solicited a sex worker in Seattle, posed as a police officer and drove her 450 miles to his home in Klamath Falls, Oregon. There, Zuberi locked the woman inside a cell in the garage of a home he was renting, FBI official Stephanie Shark alleged at the time. Shark said the woman escaped after having spent several hours "beating down the cell." Zuberi was arrested in Nevada on July 16, and he was later indicted on federal charges of kidnapping and transportation with intent to engage in sexual activity. Zuberi's lawyer in the federal case did not immediately respond to a request for comment. It wasn't immediately clear whether he has a lawyer to speak on his behalf in the state case. In an interview last month, Shark said Zuberi was believed to have targeted sex workers in previous crimes using similar methods he's accused of using in Seattle, including impersonating a police officer. Zuberi has lived in a dozen states over the last decade, and he used several aliases, including Sakima, Justin Hyche and Justin Kouassi, authorities claimed. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com A 33-year-old Peruvian man has been arrested for allegedly sending more than 150 fake bomb threats to U.S. schools, airports, synagogues, hospitals and a mall, the Justice Department said Thursday. Eddie Manuel Nunez Santos "allegedly engaged in this reprehensible and socially destructive conduct in a twisted attempt to retaliate against teenage girls who refused his requests for nude and sexually explicit photographs," U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said. Nunez Santos was arrested in Peru on Tuesday. Investigators said Nunez Santos posed as a teenage boy online and asked multiple minors to send him sexually explicit photos. When the girls refused his alleged requests or cut off communications, Nunez Santos allegedly threatened to bomb their schools or kill them. Several of the emailed threats included the phone numbers of the underage victims, along with instructions for the targeted institutions to contact the girls. The threats, made in New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Arizona and Alaska, triggered school evacuations, a hospital lockdown and flight delays. The majority of the threats, which began in mid-September, were sent to schools. In Pennsylvania, more than 1,100 schoolchildren across several school districts were evacuated in response to one threat. "I'll gladly smile when your families are crying because of your deaths," Nunez Santos allegedly wrote in an email to 24 school districts. Two synagogues in Westchester County, New York, also received threat emails, according to the criminal complaint. "The bombs I placed in the building will blow up in a few hours," Nunez Santos allegedly wrote to one of the synagogues. "Many people will lay in a pool of blood." Nunez Santos was charged with several federal crimes, including transmitting threatening interstate communications, conveying false information and hoaxes, attempting to sexually exploit a child, attempting to coerce and entice a minor and attempting to receive child pornography. He faces a maximum sentence of life in prison if he's convicted. Gen. Milley responds to Trump post accusing general of treason | 60 Minutes North Korea says it will expel Travis King, U.S. soldier who ran across border Arrest warrent issued for suspect in killing of 26-year-old Baltimore tech CEO A suspect in the homicide of a Hutchinson man earlier this month has been arrested in Colorado. Clancy Nelson Jr., 28, was arrested in Aurora, Colorado on suspicion of second-degree murder, aggravated battery and aggravated assault, a news release from the Harvey County Sheriffs Office said. The body of 31-year-old Tyler Lee Ford of Hutchinson was found in the dry part of a lake at Harvey County East Park on Sept. 17. The Harvey County Sheriffs Office said Ford had died from a gunshot wound and was thought to have been placed in the park. Nelson was identified as a suspect after authorities conducted a search warrant at a home in Hutchinson that turned up evidence of the homicide, according to the news release. The joint investigation conducted by the Hutchinson Police Department and the Reno and Harvey county sheriffs offices learned that Nelson was in Aurora, the release said. An arrest warrant was issued, and Nelson was taken into custody by the Aurora Police Department. He will be extradited to Hutchinson, the release added. Kansas Department of Corrections records show that Nelson had prior convictions in Reno County that include drug possession, theft and eluding law enforcement. Anyone with information on the case is encouraged to contact the Hutchinson Police Department at 620-694-2822 or Crime Stoppers of Reno County at 800-222-TIPS. SAN DIEGO A man was taken into custody Wednesday in connection to a shooting that occurred in Spring Valley earlier this month. According to the San Diego County Sheriffs Department, the incident took place around 1 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 4, near the 10000 block of Chavacan Lane. Deputies from the Rancho San Diego Sheriffs Station arrived at the location and found over a dozen gun casings, along with multiple bullet holes to a nearby home. Scripps Health cutting ties with insurance covering thousands of SD seniors Authorities say no one was hurt in the incident. An investigation was conducted by Rancho San Diego detectives with assistance from the San Diego Police Department. Detectives were able to identify 46-year-old Benjamin Bautista as the suspect in the shooting. Around 8 a.m. Wednesday, authorities say Rancho San Diego detectives, along with their Crime Suppression Team, arrested Bautista near the 3200 block of Towser Street in the City of San Diego. San Diego International Airport advises travelers to anticipate traffic delays An AR-15 ghost gun and multiple high-capacity magazines were located by SDPD during a related investigation, the sheriffs department explained. The firearm has been linked to the Sept. 4 shooting and was recovered by authorities. Bautista was booked into the San Diego Central Jail. Hes currently facing charges on suspicion of shooting at an inhabited dwelling and negligent discharge of a firearm. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. While most passengers on a Delta Air Lines red-eye flight were asleep, a man repeatedly groped a 13-year-old girl next to him and threatened to kidnap her from her family members, who were seated two rows away, federal prosecutors say. Brian Patrick Durning, 52, grabbed the girls chest after she tried stopping him when he started rubbing his leg against her and touching her once the lights were dim on the flight from Los Angeles to Orlando on June 24, 2022, according to court documents. He told her you are never going to see your family again and said he would take her to Texas, a sentencing memorandum filed in court says. The girl had a panic attack and couldnt speak during the assault, which was stopped by a nearby passenger, the sentencing memo says. The passenger, a woman sleeping next to the girl, awoke and intervened when she saw one of (his) hands between the childs legs, according to prosecutors and the sentencing memo. Durning then tried grabbing the womans chest after she called the flight attendants and switched seats with the girl, the sentencing memo says. In court documents later submitted by Durnings defense attorney, he wrote alcohol was a factor in his behavior on the flight. Now, a judge has sentenced Durning, of Altadena, California, to five years in federal prison for assaulting a minor on an aircraft, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Florida announced in a Sept. 27 news release. His sentence will be followed by three years of supervised release. McClatchy News contacted Jeremy Lasnetski, Durnings attorney for comment on Sept. 28 and didnt receive an immediate response. In a statement to McClatchy News on Sept. 28, Delta Air Lines said the company has no tolerance for unlawful conduct. The assault left the girl experiencing nightmares and with significant mental and emotional trauma, the sentencing memo says. Her mother testified in court about the impact on her daughter and said she did not want to hang out with her friends...didnt want to leave the housedidnt want to go anywherewouldnt go to the beachwouldnt wear a bathing suitdidnt want to go back to school, according to the sentencing memo. In a sentencing memo submitted on Durnings behalf, Lasnetski wrote his client was arrested three times before the current case and all his arrests have involved alcoholic beverages. Mr. Durning lacked judgment when he became intoxicated prior to a cross-country flight. He became intoxicated, touched several passengers in an offensive manner, Lasnetski wrote. (He) is truly sorry for his actions and how they have negatively impacted (the girl), Ahead of Durnings sentencing, prosecutors said that the girl was particularly vulnerable because she has selective mutism in their sentencing memo. Selective mutism is considered an anxiety disorder that renders a person unable to speak in some social situations, according to the National Health Service in the U.K. (The girl) cant live a normal life because of what (Durning) did to her. There is no certainty that she will ever recover from these injuries or how her life will be affected in the future, prosecutors wrote. In 2022, the number of sexual misconduct cases aboard flights in the U.S. more than tripled since 2018, according to federal prosecutors. Last year, the FBI investigated more than 90 sexual misconduct cases and 2023 is on pace to surpass that number, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Washington announced in an Aug. 9 news release. Sleeping woman wakes up twice to passenger groping her on red-eye flight to NJ, feds say Doctor exposed himself, masturbated on flight while sitting next to teen, feds say Delta passenger gropes 15-year-old on flight and is arrested when plane lands, feds say Police in Texas have arrested a man they say confessed to killing an 18-year-old woman, then dumping her body in a ravine. Dejah Hood was reported missing by her mother after she was last seen Monday, Sept. 25, according to an arrest affidavit. Her body was found the next day in a ravine behind an apartment complex in Tyler, according to the arrest affidavit. Family and friends took to social media to share their grief about the tragic incident. Im SO SORRY this happened to you! Last time we talked you talked about wanting to go to college and do hair. The fact that somebody took that away from you.. God I dont understand it, one Facebook user wrote. Such A Beautiful Soul Gone Way Too Soon I Pray For Peace & Justice, another post said. Hood attended John Tyler High School, according to her Facebook page. I just now learned one of my recent former students was murdered. The world will be a bit dimmer without DeJah. Or as I called her, Miss Hood. Shine bright, angel, one person posted. Jamaurea Jermaine Britton, 19, of Tyler, was charged with murder, according to the arrest affidavit. The last place she was seen was here at this apartment with a male, Tyler Police Department Public Information Officer Andy Erbaugh told KLTV. We got conflicted stories from the man where he last saw her. So, we came out here to investigate. The family had been out here. We were out here a couple hours when one of our sergeants found a body behind this building behind me wrapped in cloth. Police say Britton told them he killed Hood, then wrapped up her body and dumped it behind his apartment complex, the arrest affidavit said. Hood was reported missing Sept. 26 just after midnight after her mother said she couldnt get in touch with her. The mother told police Hood went out with her friends Monday. She remembered Britton as one of those friends and gave his phone number to police, according to the arrest affidavit. When officers called Britton, he told them he picked Hood up Monday so she could help him pack because he was moving soon. Hood also had a 1-year-old child with her who she was babysitting, the arrest affidavit said. Britton told police Hood and the baby left his apartment with someone else, however, police later determined that story to be false, according to the arrest affidavit. As police were talking with Britton in his apartment, they noticed black spray paint on the walls and carpet. Britton told police it was done by his ex, but as police looked closer they found blood spots, the arrest affidavit said. Eventually, Britton confessed to killing Hood in a fit of rage, according to the arrest affidavit. He was in the kitchen alone, thinking about his ex-girlfriend and the breakup he had just suffered recently, the affidavit said. While Britton was alone with his thoughts, he became angrier and angrier. Britton explained how Hood approached him and playfully tugged on his ear, which is something his ex-girlfriend would do. Britton told police he beat Hood with a hammer, then strangled her. Britton told police, according to the arrest affidavit, that he was prepared to take his own life but heard a knock at the door and responded. He went on to say how he covered the body before answering the door. The person knocking was asking what the commotion was, the arrest affidavit said. Britton provided an answer that he was okay, and the bystander left. Britton told police then he packed up the baby and took the child to Hoods mother. When Britton returned home, he heard Hood calling his name and realized she was still alive. He then stabbed her multiple times, the arrest affidavit said. Police said they located Hoods body behind a safety fence and found evidence at the scene. Britton also faces a charge of terroristic threat of family/household. He was given a $1.05 million bond, according to the Tyler Morning Telegraph. Cops downplayed familys fears about missing daughter, suit says. She was found dead DNA leads to arrest of man accused of killing 6-year-old boy in 1987, CA officials say Body in Mississippi River identified as woman who vanished on birthday cruise, cops say In this photo provided by the New York City Police Department, a trap door leans open over narcotics, including fentanyl, and drug paraphernalia stored in the floor of a day care center, Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023, in New York. Police say the owners of the New York City day care center where a toddler died and three others were sickened by opioid exposure the week before were hiding the bags of fentanyl concealed by plywood and tile flooring. (Courtesy NYPD via AP) NEW YORK (AP) A man who fled a New York City day care center where a child died and three others were hospitalized with suspected fentanyl poisoning is in custody in California the latest person to face charges in what investigators said was a drug lab run out of a place where toddlers played and napped. U.S. investigators searched for Felix Herrera Garcia, 34, for almost two weeks before he was detained by authorities in Mexico. He was transferred to U.S. custody Wednesday night in California, according to federal prosecutors in Manhattan. His wife, the operator of the day care center, and two other men were previously arrested. Herrera Garcia made an appearance in a federal court Thursday and was ordered to be removed to New York, the U.S. attorney's office for California's southern district said. The manhunt for him began not long after a 1-year-old boy, Nicholas Dominici, suddenly died at the Bronx day care center. During nap time, other children at the center experienced symptoms of opioid poisoning and needed to be revived with the drug Narcan. Police found a brick of fentanyl stored on top of playmats for the children, along with equipment often used to package drugs. A further search led to the discovery of a trap door in a play area, under which police found more packages of drugs and other materials. In the complaint against Herrera Garcia, authorities say his wife, Grei Mendez, called him before dialing 911 after the children started showing symptoms of a toxic opioid exposure on Sept. 15. Security camera recordings showed him enter building, before medics had even arrived, and then exit into a back alley two minutes later carrying two full shopping bags. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said Herrera Garcia fled the day care even as the children he abandoned inside were suffering from his poisonous trade. Mendez then deleted more than 21,000 text messages she had exchanged with her husband, according to prosecutors. It was unclear whether Herrera Garcia might have a lawyer who could comment on his behalf. Court records didn't include an attorney's name late Thursday. Mendez's lawyer has said her client wasn't aware of the presence of drugs inside the center. Mendez and a man who had been living in the same building as the day care center, Carlisto Acevedo Brito, have also been charged in state court with murder in connection with the child's death. On Monday, Renny Antonio Parra Paredes was charged with narcotics distribution resulting in death. An Elk Grove man faces a maximum of 471 years to life in prison for committing six armed robberies with his girlfriend over a four-day span four years ago in Sacramento, prosecutors said. On Tuesday, a Sacramento Superior Court jury found Roy Dennis Pacheco, 47, guilty of 13 counts of robbery and one count of being a felon in possession of a gun, the Sacramento County District Attorneys Office announced Wednesday in a news release. The jury also convicted 46-year-old Monica Genevieve Lopez, of Sacramento, of eight counts of robbery for aiding Pacheco in the series of robberies in 2019, prosecutors said. Their charges included enhancements for the use of a gun in the crimes. Pacheco and Lopez were in a dating relationship when they robbed six Sacramento businesses from March 3 through March 6 in 2019. Prosecutors said Pacheco was armed with a firearm during the robberies and fired the gun during one of the robberies. When the pair were arrested, the Sacramento Police Department said one or both of the suspects demanded money while brandishing or pointing a revolver at victims. In one robbery on March 3, 2019, Pacheco pistol-whipped a victim inside a business in the 1500 block of 21st Street and demanded money, police said. Pacheco and Lopez were arrested three days later near Stockton Boulevard and Fruitridge Road in the suspected getaway vehicle, a silver four-door car. The investigation into the robberies was a joint effort between Sacramento police and the Sacramento County Sheriffs Office. Prosecutors said Pacheco has two previous convictions for assault causing injury and assault with a deadly weapon. Both convictions are considered strikes under the Californias Three Strikes law, and thats why he faces a much longer prison sentence more than four centuries than his accomplice. Lopez faces a maximum sentence of 19 years in prison. Pacheco and Lopez remain in custody at the Sacramento County Main Jail. They are scheduled to return for their sentencing hearing on Oct. 24 in Sacramento Superior Court. The FBI said a 33-year-old man from Peru was arrested by Peruvian authorities after he sent bomb threats to over 150 school districts, synagogues and other public places in multiple locations including Westchester County. Damian Williams, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, said in a news release that Eddie Manuel Nunez Santos called in fake bomb threats to schools, synagogues, airports, hospitals and a shopping mall from Sept. 15 to Sept. 21. The threats were received in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Arizona, Alaska, and New York. He said the threats caused "evacuations of thousands of schoolchildren, a lockdown of a hospital and flight delays." Williams said Nunez Santos made the threats in retaliation against a 15-year-old girl and other minors who refused to provide him with child pornography. FBI Assistant Director in Charge James Smith said, Not only did Santos allegedly email hundreds of hoax bomb threats terrorizing schools, hospitals, and houses of worship, he also perversely tried to sextort innocent teenage girls. His actions wasted limited law enforcement resources, put first responders in unnecessary danger, and victimized children. " Williams said that Nunez Santos threatened synagogues in Westchester County on Sept. 17, the last night of the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah. He wrote in an email, "I placed multiple bombs inside the Jewish Center. The bombs I placed in the building will blow up in a few hours. Many people will lay in a pool of blood." Westchester County Executive George Latimer informed the public of the threats the next day in a news conference. He said that local police deemed the threat not credible on the day of the incident but still increased security presence around all Jewish public places during the high holy days. Williams said that many of Nunez Santos' threats were made to specific communities and "referenced particular phone numbers and IP addresses, directing the institutions to contact those numbers and addresses." Williams said they were tied to certain minors in contact with Nunez Santos while he was impersonating a 15-year-old named "Lucas," including a 17-year-old and 13-year-old girl from Pennsylvania and a 15-year-old girl from New York. Williams said that Nunez Santos repeatedly asked the girls to send him nude photographs and threatened to "bomb their schools and kill them" when they refused. Nunez Santos is charged with five felony counts, including conveying false information and hoaxes, attempting to sexually exploit a child and attempting to receive child pornography. If found guilty, Nunez Santos could face up to 30 years in prison. This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Westchester synagogue threats: Man in Peru arrested FILE - Police and other first responders work the scene where officials say dozens of people have been found dead and multiple others were taken to hospitals with heat-related illnesses after a tractor-trailer containing suspected migrants was found on June 27, 2022, in San Antonio. One of six men charged in Texas over 53 migrants who died last year in the sweltering tractor-trailer has pleaded guilty for his role in the nation's deadliest human smuggling attempt from Mexico, federal prosecutors said Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. (AP Photo/Eric Gay, File) SAN ANTONIO (AP) One of six men charged in Texas over 53 migrants who died last year in a sweltering tractor-trailer has pleaded guilty for his role in the nation's deadliest human smuggling attempt from Mexico, federal prosecutors said Wednesday. Christian Martinez, 29, is the first conviction for the U.S. government over the tragedy in San Antonio, where the truck was found on a remote back road in June 2022. The dead included eight children who were riding inside the trailer that had no air conditioning in the sweltering Texas heat. Martinez pleaded guilty to four smuggling-related charges and faces up to life in prison. Court records show his sentencing is set for Jan. 4. David Shearer, an attorney for Martinez, declined comment. Prosecutors said Martinez, who lived in suburban Houston, took the driver of the trailer to San Antonio to pick up the vehicle before it made its way to the U.S. border city of Laredo. Once there, Homero Zamorano Jr. allegedly loaded the migrants into the trailer and made his way back north while Martinez and four other men passed messages and made each other aware of the trailer's progress. Zamorano and the other defendants are still awaiting trial. Zamorano has pleaded not guilty. An indictment unsealed in June alleged that the men worked with human smuggling operations in Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico. They allegedly shared routes, guides, stash houses, trucks and trailers, some of which were stored at a private parking lot in San Antonio. The truck had been packed with 67 people, and the dead included 27 from Mexico, 14 from Honduras, seven from Guatemala and two from El Salvador, authorities in Mexico said. Migrants paid the organization up to $15,000 each to be taken across the U.S. border. The fee would cover up to three attempts to get into the country, according to the indictment. A man who police say assaulted an Acworth officer and multiple people has been sentenced. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Last year on Dec. 17, Acworth Ofc. Taneisha Palarche was called to do a welfare check. Police received reports of a naked man running around attacking people at the Deerfield Lodge in Cobb County. When officers arrived, they tried to calm the man, later identified as Kelly Michael Holcomb, 37, of Dallas, Georgia, but he quickly began fighting with another person. TRENDING STORIES: Acworth officials said Holcomb, then attacked Palarche. He knocked out one of the officers front teeth, strangled her and attempted to gouge her eyes out with his thumbs, according to police. Residents reportedly tried distracting Holcomb while Palarche continued to do her job of protecting the residents. One of the residents helped Palarche and she was able to get away. Holcomb was arrested. The investigation revealed that Holcomb broke into another room and attacked another woman causing serious injury to her and minor injuries to another man in that room. During the trial, Holcomb admitted to having smoked methamphetamine before the assault. Your bad decisions have led us here, Judge Jason D. Marbutt said. Marbutt ordered Holcomb to have no contact with the victims. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] A Cobb County jury found Holcomb guilty of one count of aggravated battery on a peace officer, one count of aggravated assault on a peace officer, two counts of aggravated battery, one count of aggravated assault, two counts of obstruction of an officer, one count of burglary in the first degree and one count of misdemeanor battery. He was sentenced to 20 years with the first 15 years to be served in prison. IN OTHER NEWS: HOPKINSVILLE, Ky. (WKRN) Detectives with the Christian County Sheriffs Office are investigating after a man was reportedly shot while sitting in his car Thursday morning. The sheriffs office said deputies responded to a home on Carl Smith Road Thursday, Sept. 28 after receiving reports of shots being fired in the area. Nashville murder suspect arrested in Chattanooga According to investigators, a 30-year-old man was sitting in his vehicle around 3:10 a.m. getting ready to leave for work when multiple gunshots were fired into the car. One of the bullets struck the man in the left leg. Authorities believe his injury is non-life-threatening. He was taken to Jennie Stuart Medical Center where he remained Thursday morning. Detectives have been talking with residents in an effort to identify possible suspects and determine a motive behind the shooting. CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee If you have any information about this incident, you are asked to call 270-887-4141 or 270-890-1300 and ask for Detective Sara Morris. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. A 34-year-old man was stabbed in the back Wednesday night by armed robbers in the citys Roseland neighborhood making him one of three people whom fell victim to robbers throughout Chicago, police said. About 9:10 p.m., robbers approached the man with a knife and a gun in the 200 block of East 104th Street. When he attempted to run away, he was stabbed in the back. The robbers took his wallet and one of them fired shots at the victim but missed, police said. The victim was taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn where his condition was stabilized, police said. In other armed robberies overnight: Around 2 a.m., a 42-year-old man was outside in the 4900 block of West Kamerling Avenue in the Belmont Cragin neighborhood when a white SUV with three males pulled alongside, police said. The robbers exited the SUV and demanded his property. He complied and robbers fled the scene. About 20 minutes later, a 30-year-old woman was approached by a white SUV that pulled alongside and two robbers exited demanding her property before fleeing east in the 4900 block of West Montana Street in the Austin neighborhood. No one was in custody and detectives were investigating. The San Luis Obispo man who allegedly crashed his Prius into Big 5 Sporting Goods and stole seven guns was one of three men convicted of setting San Luis Obispo High Schools computer lab on fire in 2016, court records show. Michael Benadiba was also convicted of shoplifting in 2019, along with two minor post-release community supervision violations in 2020. Post-release community supervision is essentially parole governed by the county instead of the state. Police say Benadiba drove his Toyota Prius into the front of the store in the Marigold Center at around 2 a.m. Saturday. Officers found seven stolen rifles and ammunition still attached to a shelf and security cable in a field behind the store. Police are looking for a San Luis Obispo man they say crashed his Prius into Big 5 Sporting Goods at the Marigold Center and then made off with seven guns, which were found in a nearby field. SLO man crashed his Prius into Big 5 and stole 7 guns, police say. Now hes on the run The 25-year-old is accused of stealing a pellet gun from the store the day before. Stolen license plates were also found on his Prius, police said, which had items from an unreported commercial robbery inside. Benadiba was arrested around midnight Thursday, the San Luis Obispo Police Department said in a news release. He is suspected of seven felony counts of grand theft of a firearm, felony burglary, felon in possession of ammunition, felon in possession of a firearm, misdemeanor vandalism, misdemeanor obstructing a police officer and misdemeanor possession of paraphernalia. Police are requesting additional charges against Benadiba for a commercial burglary that occurred on the 700 block of Fiero approximately two weeks ago. Benadiba is being held in SLO County Jail, bail set at $255,000. Michael Giovanni Benadiba, 25, is alleged to have crashed his Prius into Big 5 Sporting Goods in San Luis Obispo in an attempted gun heist on Sept. 23, 2023. Suspect in Big 5 heist previously set SLOHS on fire, court records show Benadiba was 18 years old when he, Jacob Ruth and Cameron Bratcher were accused of setting the San Luis Obispo High School computer lab on fire on Dec. 8, 2016, causing $1.8 million in damage. All three men were former students at the school. Ruth graduated and Bratcher withdrew in 2015, while Benadiba transferred to Pacific Beach High School. The San Luis Obispo Police Department said the three men were disgruntled former students unhappy with a specific teacher at the high school. According to Tribune reporting at the time, the fire was the last incident in a series of escalating crimes committed by the three men, which included the fiery destruction of a school portable toilet, the burglary of a school concession stand, the theft of 17 tablet devices and the theft and destruction of a 3-D printer. A fire caused significant damage to a computer lab on the San Luis Obispo High School campus early Thursday, Dec. 8, 2016. Both Ruth and Bratcher alleged in their court proceedings that it was Benadiba who started the computer lab fire, and neither of them knew it was coming. A jury found Ruth guilty of two felony charges of burglary and one count of arson stemming from the burning of a portable toilet on the school campus a night before the computer lab fire. The jury could not agree on whether Ruth was guilty of the arson that destroyed the computer lab. Ruth later pleaded no contest to a felony charge of arson of a structure relating to the computer lab fire in December 2017. Bratcher initially faced felony charges of arson, conspiracy and being an accessory to a felony, but pleaded no contest to the felony accessory charge in exchange for the others being dismissed in December 2017. An arson fire in December caused $1.8 million in damage to the San Luis Obispo High School computer lab. Benadiba pleaded no contest to felony charges of recklessly causing a structure fire and second-degree commercial burglary in May 2018 in exchange for the dismissal of the arson and conspiracy charges. He was sentenced to five years of formal probation and 364 days in County Jail. At his sentencing, San Luis Obispo Superior Court Judge Jacquelyn Duffy told Benadiba to refrain from alcohol and stay out of trouble. You really have two paths you can go on, Duffy told Benadiba in 2018. I encourage you to choose the right one. San Luis Obispo Superior Court Judge Jacquelyn Duffy warns Michael Benadiba at his June 14 sentencing to keep his nose clean. But then in April 2019, court records show, Benadiba was charged with eight misdemeanor shoplifting charges. Benadiba stole $162.85 in merchandise from the Cork n Bottle liquor store on four separate occasions, court records show, as well as $467.06 in goods from California Fresh Market in four separate incidents. Court record show he pleaded no contest to one charge of shoplifting and was sentenced to 188 days in County Jail in July 2019, which he had already served by the time he was sentenced. The pub was demolished two days after a huge blaze that is being investigated by police - Jacob King/PA Detectives investigating the suspected arson attack at the Crooked House pub have arrested two more people. The 18th-century pub, known as Britains wonkiest because of its lopsided structure, caught fire on August 5 and was demolished two days later. A 34-year-old woman and 44-year-old man, both from Leicestershire, were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent or being reckless as to whether life was endangered. Staffordshire Police say the pair have been released on conditional police bail while the investigation continues. Meanwhile the 66-year-old man, the 51-year-old man and the 33-year-old man, who were all previously arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life, remain on conditional police bail. On Aug 9, police confirmed that the blaze was being treated as arson. The 18th-century pub was known as Britains wonkiest - Nick Maslen/Alamy/PA Following the demolition, a spokesman for South Staffordshire Council said that at no point was the entire structure ordered to be bulldozed. Andy Street, the West Midlands mayor, has said the 18th-century building should be rebuilt brick by brick. Marco Longhi, the MP for Dudley North, described the pubs destruction as a huge loss, adding he would leave no stone unturned to bring justice to the situation. Over the weeks since the pub was reduced to rubble, campaigners have staged sit-down protests to protect the remaining detritus at the site, and set up a Save The Crooked House group on Facebook to co-ordinate fundraising and lobbying efforts. A security guard for the Crooked House pub camped outside the site for almost two weeks to protect its remaining structures, while others applied for the ruins to be awarded listed status by Historic England. Staffordshire Police force is continuing to appeal to any members of the public who may have information about the incident. Their inquiry into the suspected arson attack has involved examining CCTV footage as well as forensics and witness accounts. 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 investigating a suspected illegal marijuana grow operation discovered as firefighters were battling a house fire in Northridge Thursday morning. Los Angeles Fire Department crews responded to the blaze at the single-story home in the 16900 block of West Tupper Street around 4:30 a.m. Flames were visible when the firefighters arrived, a Fire Department spokesperson said. At one point, the fire extended into the attic, prompting firefighters to conduct an extensive ventilation operation on the roof. Marijuana grow house fire Around 30 firefighters extinguished the fire in just over half an hour. No injuries were reported. The contents of the home indicate a marijuana grow operation, a spokesman said. Neighbors told KTLA that it appeared no one was living inside the home. At some point in the past, they told us, the homes water was left on, causing a minor flood in the neighborhood. Los Angeles Police Department investigators were called to the scene to investigate the operation. The cause of the fire was also under investigation. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. A government shutdown is looming as Republican lawmakers struggle to agree on a funding plan. Meanwhile, a faction of hard-right GOP members moved to cut Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's salary. The proposal from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene is likely to go nowhere. As Congress scrambles to drum up a plan to avert a government shutdown, hard-right lawmakers curiously proposed a move to cut the salary of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to $1. Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene proposed an amendment to slash Austin's salary on the House floor on Wednesday, putting the proposal to a voice vote. Several unidentified lawmakers voted "aye," allowing the amendment to be placed in a defense appropriation bill. But the amendment is likely to go nowhere as the spending bill was already doomed to fail in the Senate. Adding Austin's salary cut would make passing the bill that much more unlikely. Greene's proposal was supported by a group of unidentified Republicans a move to possibly placate the handful of hard right conservatives, including Greene, who are currently holding up funding plans for the government. On X, formerly Twitter, Greene said that Austin is "squarely" to blame for how the US's withdrawal from Afghanistan unraveled. During the exit in the summer of 2021, the Biden administration struggled to get the remaining military forces and Afghan allies out of the country, underestimating just how quickly Taliban forces would overthrow the Afghan government. Greene set her crosshairs on Austin earlier in September, posting on X that he had "failed in his role as Secretary of Defense and has jeopardized the national security of the United States." A Pentagon spokesperson said in a statement to Insider that "it would be inappropriate to comment on pending legislation." Austin, a retired four-star Army general, is the first Black secretary of defense and was confirmed 93-2 by a Senate committee in 2021. The two votes against were from Republican senators Josh Hawley and Mike Lee. Austin's salary is $221,000, according to Military Times. The government is just days away from a shutdown that would put thousands of federal employees temporarily out of work. As a consequence, SNAP benefits, social security payments, and even air travel could be at risk. On September 21, several hard-right Republicans continued to stifle progress on a spending agenda after rejecting a defense bill that typically receives bipartisan support. "This is a whole new concept of individuals who just want to burn the whole place down," House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said after Thursday's vote. "It doesn't work." A spokesperson for Greene did not respond to a request for comment. Read the original article on Business Insider Mark Cuban was on First Take, on ESPN discussing the rumors that Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift are dating. Cuban said Swift was by far the biggest musician on the planet and that she affects entire economies based on where she tours. Cuban also said he believed that relationship was legitimate but then joked he had a proposition for Swift. Taylor if youre listening, sorry Travis. Break up with him [Travis Kelce], I got a bunch of good-looking single guys that play for the Dallas Mavericks. I got you, said Cuban. Travis Kelce responded on X [formerly Twitter] that he had a solution to Cubans dilemma that would benefit both of them. Travis Kelce is ready to hoop for the Mavs #MFFL pic.twitter.com/sJedj8XKFe MFFL (@Mavs_FFL) September 28, 2023 On the morning of the second Republican primary debate, Donald Trump s social media account posted a Gary Varvel cartoon featuring a giant shadow of Trumps head cast over a stage of overwhelmed rivals. It was a fitting depiction of the drama to follow. The problem with Wednesday nights debate is that assessing performances became nearly impossible as the occasion frequently drowned in a cacophony of voices ramming into each other as rules crashed to the floor of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. The advancing calendar has increased pressure on every candidate, and the moderators were unable to control the adrenaline of the participants. The structure was no help. The framework obviously called for bouncing starkly from issue to issue with no room for topics to breathe and develop. Moderator instructions clearly called for them to interrupt answers deemed less than responsive, which was nearly as annoying as the candidates stepping all over each other. The next debate is Nov. 8 in Miami. Thats six weeks to get some clarity: Let viewers decide when candidates are dodging questions or angling toward favored index card lines. Once a question is asked, moderators should shut up until the timing bell rings, when it is time to ask the next question or curtail an overlong answer. Endless answers and uninvited speechifying were the order of the night, suppressing what might have otherwise been a valuable opportunity to grade this stage filled with candidates desperate to eat into Trumps lead. Im a big fan of Fox News Dana Perino, so I desperately want to believe she did not craft the stunningly stupid idea of wrapping up the evening by asking everyone to write down the name of a candidate who should be voted off the island. In the rare moments where coherent questions were coherently answered, a few storylines punched through: Ron DeSantis wanted to reclaim his status as prime Trump rival, and he may have taken steps in that direction. Vivek Ramaswamy and Nikki Haley have made poll inroads, but the sitting Florida governor had the unique chance to chronicle an ongoing record of executive conservative success, capping off one answer with the pronouncement that in our state, the Democratic party lies in ruins. Ron DeSantis appears on stage at the start of the Fox Business Republican presidential primary debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. Ramaswamy and Haley acquitted themselves with relative success, but someone as young as he is needs to avoid looking snotty toward the rest of the field, even when hes making a good point, as when he opposed birthright citizenship while suggesting he was the only one onstage who had read the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, which outlines the issue. As for Haley, she needs to rein in her condescending annoyance with Ramaswamys lack of firsthand foreign policy experience. Not that she has a bad point, but the truth is that the current GOP frontrunner entered the presidency in 2017 with zero foreign policy experience, while the current president has plenty. Tim Scott was Tim Scott, meaning his answers were good and his narratives inspiring, especially his refusal as a Black person to join the modern chorus slamming America as systemically racist. But with a dominant Trump and other distinctive personalities ahead of him in the polls, its hard to see a path forward. Mike Pence was Mike Pence, with his straight-from-central-casting appearance of what a president looks like. And with four years at a heartbeats distance from that job, he has to be wondering why so few are interested in him ascending to it. Thats not likely to change as he wrestles with the daily dilemma of speaking well of the administration he so ably served while arguing that Trumps reelection is to be avoided at all costs. Chris Christie continues to embarrass himself, even without the lame Donald Duck barb at Trump for skipping debates. His entire shtick is blasting Trump for various things while ostensibly trying to win the nomination of a party that clearly still values him. The only path for any of these eager competitors is to identify with voters broad appreciation for Trump while suggesting that they are more electable, or more disciplined, or under far fewer indictments. And even that may not work. The second debate surely did not work. The third occasion can be better with stronger moderators and an ear toward letting topics grow and flow. When the participants were just getting warmed up with interesting exchanges about Ukraine, Perino screeched the proceedings to a halt to ask Doug Burgum about farming. Its tempting to suggest that perhaps Christie and Pence should join Burgum in the home viewing audience for the next debate, but there is a small but loud corner of the GOP that actively dislikes Trump, and Christie gives it voice. And if Trump decides to attend the next debate, a battle of Jan. 6 reminiscences with Pence might draw interest presuming the moderators let them finish sentences. Debates are rarely substantive occasions that make important news. They are at best worthy examples of political theater. In this case, it was a relief to see the curtain come down. Mark Davis hosts a morning radio show in Dallas-Fort Worth on 660-AM and at 660amtheanswer.com. Follow him on Twitter: @markdavis. Mark Davis Do you have an opinion on this topic? Tell us! We love to hear from Texans with opinions on the news and to publish those views in the Opinion section. Letters should be no more than 150 words. Writers should submit letters only once every 30 days. Include your name, address (including city of residence), phone number and email address, so we can contact you if we have questions. You can submit a letter to the editor two ways: Email letters@star-telegram.com (preferred). Fill out this online form. Please note: Letters will be edited for style and clarity. Publication is not guaranteed. The best letters are focused on one topic. U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn is a Trump-supporting, Fox News and social media firebrand, who frequently touts Tennessee values and skewers the left-wing agenda. She is also a member of Congress who has worked on bipartisan legislation with Democratic colleagues such as the late Diane Feinstein from California and Richard Blumenthal from Connecticut on issues ranging from celebrating womens suffrage to protecting children from online exploitation and abuse. State Rep. Gloria Johnson is a member of the famed Tennessee Three who frequently irritates Republican colleagues, declares the death of democracy under GOP-dominated rule and often tweets at Speaker Cameron Sexton with the clown face emoji. Shes also a thoughtful advocate for public education and keeping children safe from gun violence. U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) greets Roland Harrah, of Brownsville, while during the Freedom Forum, First Amendment Festival at Discovery Park of America in Union City, Tenn., Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022. I have encountered both sides of their personalities through their public statements, but also in interviewing them in the past: Blackburn on the Tennessee Voices podcast I hosted in 2020 and Johnson in a Twitter Spaces conversation in 2022. This is not about both-sides-ism, but rather about describing the challenge of standing out in politics today where sound bites and radical statements get attention despite how serious a candidate might otherwise be. Right now, their focus is on the showmanship, and they are lobbing barbs at each other nearly a year before the August 2024 primary election. Hear more Tennessee Voices: Get the weekly opinion newsletter for insightful and thought provoking columns. GOP and Democratic nominees will be elected on Aug. 1, 2024 While its unlikely that Blackburn will have any serious challengers in the Republican primary, Johnson is not yet guaranteed the Democratic nomination. As citizens learned in 2020, being the most funded and most known candidate in elite political circles doesnt guarantee a spot in the general election. Rep. Gloria Johnson, D- Knoxville, looks to her supporters gathered behind her before announcing her campaign for U.S. Senate in 2024 at the Tennessee Woman Suffrage Monument Centennial Park in Nashville, Tenn., Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023. Attorney and combat veteran James Mackler learned that lesson when he campaigned as if he were facing a Republican challenger in the seat left open by retired U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander in 2020. Although he raised $2.1 million, he came in third place. The Democratic primary winner was Marquita Bradshaw, an environmental activist from Memphis, who raised $8,420. She lost to now-Sen. Bill Hagerty, but she wants another chance at a Senate seat and has put her hat in the ring for 2024. Johnson of Knoxville and Blackburn of Brentwood should not dismiss the Memphis vote. West Tennessee votes matters. Marquita Bradshaw reads from a sign during a protest of the county restarting eviction proceedings Monday, June 15, 2020, in front of the Judge D'Army Bailey Courthouse in downtown Memphis. Whoever wins the Democratic primary will need to be dominant in the small, but strong blue portions of the state including Memphis and Nashville. Sign up for Black Tennessee Voices newsletter:Read compelling columns by Black writers from across Tennessee. A motive behind running against Blackburn might be to wound her But lets assume that Johnson, because of her recent national fame and fundraising acumen from nearly getting expelled from the legislature last spring, along with Reps. Justin Jones, D-Nashville, and Justin Pearson, D-Memphis (who did get expelled but were reinstated and handily reelected), is nominated, she clearly knows she is at a disadvantage. And maybe thats the point. She has won and lost elections and has entered a race in a state where more than 60% of Tennessee voters selected Donald Trump for president in both 2016 and 2020. A victory for Johnson so far is that she has triggered Blackburn into acknowledging her as a threat and attacking her before they are even officially opponents. Johnson may be able to sufficiently wound the incumbent senator to force a real conversation and a real competition next year. Both women are fighters who will give voters quite a show. Sign up for Latino Tennessee Voices newsletter:Read compelling stories for and with the Latino community in Tennessee. Will they be able to show accomplishments? Will that matter to voters? The question is will either be able to show any substantive legislative accomplishments that made life better for Tennesseans during their time in office. They have the political advantage of being in the minority party of their respective chambers the U.S. Senate and the Tennessee House of Representatives so they can campaign on bucking the system even as they have both been in a politics for a while. And theres the rub. From Memphis to Mountain City, Tennesseans are not a monolithic group, but citizens in each city and county want a senator who will represent their interests and values. The advantage of a good campaign that shows distinction between the candidates is that voters get a chance to fully review their statements and records of accomplishment. After the primary, the nominees should debate each other and make the best case for who ought to represent Tennessee in Washington in 2025. Tennesseans deserve no less. David Plazas is the director of opinion and engagement for the USA TODAY Network Tennessee. He is an editorial board member of The Tennessean. He hosts the Tennessee Voices videocast and curates the Tennessee Voices and Latino Tennessee Voices newsletters.. Call him at (615) 259-8063, email him at dplazas@tennessean.com or tweet to him at @davidplazas. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee Senate race: Marsha Blackburn and Gloria Johnson do battle With a federal shutdown looming as Congress appears unable to pass a temporary funding bill, hundreds of thousands of government employees are likely to start missing paychecks starting next week. Sen. Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican, said Thursday it just comes with the job. I think when you take a job with the federal government, you realize that theres pros and cons and this is one of the cons of it, that every five or 10 years, theres a government shutdown, Marshall said. They have incredible pay, they have easy hours, only a fourth of them are actually back working in the office right now. So we all have to, you know, sacrifice. There are around 17,320 civilian federal employees based in Kansas, according to the Congressional Research Service. Most of those workers will either be sent home or will be forced to work without pay. While federal law now assures those employees will receive back pay for the time they missed, theyre left uncertain about when theyll get their next paycheck. During previous shutdowns, some federal employees around the country had to take out short term loans to cover their expenses and some used local food banks, said Doreen Greenwald, the president of the NTEU, which represents federal employees at 31 departments and agencies. Federal employees in Kansas are wondering why members of Congress are still getting paid when they havent done their job of funding the federal government, Greenwald said. Members of Congress continue to get paid during a government shut down, though some lawmakers offer not to accept their paycheck for the duration of a shutdown. Marshall has more than $100,000 in a bank account, $1 million in mutual funds and $250,000 in corporate securities stock, according to his last financial disclosure report. He was an OB/GYN before running for political office. Over the past week, Marshall has voted against a bill in the Senate that would keep the government open until Nov. 17, while providing $6 billion to Ukraine and $6 billion for disaster relief. He said he will not vote for any temporary spending bill that has Ukraine aid and that he likely wont support a temporary spending measure unless it has money for border security. He has also pushed for additional spending cuts in any funding bill passed this year, because he is concerned about the national debt. Im thinking about is the next generation, not my next election, Marshall said. I want to do whats best for the next generation and I believe that the number one threat to the security, the well being of my grandchildren is the national debt. The national debt has increased by about $10 trillion since Marshall first entered Congress in 2017, in part because of former President Donald Trumps 2017 tax cut Marshall supported and in part because of federal COVID-19 relief. While both Sens. Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt, Republicans who represent Missouri, have also voted against the temporary funding measure, its backed by most of the Republicans in the Senate, including Sen. Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican. Moran, who served in the Senate during previous shutdowns, said Wednesday he thinks Republicans will be in a stronger position to get funding for border security if the government remains open. I think my position is clear about the efforts we ought to make to reduce spending to better balance our books, Moran said. But a shutdown does not accomplish that. And in many ways, its much more difficult for the services that many Americans, Kansans need to get those services and it costs a lot more money in the process. Martin Scorsese has revealed he regrets one of his many collaborations with Leonardo DiCaprio in a thoughtful interview reflecting on his six-decade career. The legendary filmmaker, 80, who has directed DiCaprio eight times, including in his most recent drama, Killers of the Flower Moon, admitted that in recent years, he has soured on one particular release. Speaking with GQ, Scorsese looked back on the psychological thriller Shutter Island, and suggested he should not have agreed to direct it. According to the director, he made the decision in the wake of his long-awaited Oscars success. Riding high after winning his first Best Director trophy for the 2006 crime drama The Departed, Scorsese felt encouraged to take on Shutter Island but, in hindsight, wishes he had attached himself to a different project instead. He told the outlet that winning the Oscar encouraged me to make another picture with Shutter Island, but it turned out I should have gone on probably to do Silence. Silence was Scorseses passion project, starring Liam Neeson and Andrew Garfield, that he made in 2016. An adaptation of ShAsaku EndAs novel of the same name, the film follows two Jesuit priests as they travel to Japan on a mission to locate their mentor. Shutter Island, based on Dennis Lehanes novel of the same name, received generally positive reviews upon its release in 2011, and was even chosen by the National Board of Review as one of the top 10 films of the year. However, in recent years, it appears to be increasingly considered a lesser work of the directors when compared with his more critically acclaimed works, including Taxi Driver (1976), Raging Bull (1980) and The Age of Innocence (1993). Its also the filmmakers only narrative feature film, released in the last two decades, to have received zero Oscar nominations. Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio on the set of Shutter Island (Paramount/Kobal/Shutterstock) Its unclear whether Scorseses comments were also alluding to the two films he made before 2016s Silence Hugo (2011) and The Wolf of Wall Street. Elsewhere in the new interview, Scorsese also addressed several of his other collaborations with DiCaprio, the first of which arrived in 2002 with Gangs of New York a shoot the director says he struggled with due to the interventions of producer Harvey Weinstein. In the interview, Scorsese said Weinsteins meddling, which saw him make demands over the films budget and runtime, made him realise that I couldnt work if I had to make films that way ever again. He added: If that was the only way that I was able to be allowed to make films, then Id have to stop. Because the results werent satisfying. It was at times extremely difficult, and I wouldnt survive it. Id be dead. And so I decided it. However, Scorsese was lured back by The Aviator (2004), his second collaboration with DiCaprio, in which he was forced to work with Weinstein again. The director said the shoot went well until the final few weeks of the edit when Weinsteins company at the time, Miramax, came in and did some things that I felt were extremely mean. Lily Gladstone and Leonardo DiCaprio in Martin Scorseses new film Killers of the Flower Moon (Apple TV+) Scorsese suggests in the interview that, despite struggles on both Gangs of New York and The Aviator, he is happy with the result of both films. But he did reveal that he resisted studio demands to completely change the ending of The Departed. Killers of the Flower Moon is an adaptation of David Granns non-fiction book documenting the string of murders that plagued the Osage Indian tribe in Oklahoma during the 1920s after oil was found on their land. The case was deemed the FBIs first homicide investigation. The Independents film critic Clarisse Loughrey, in her five-star review, said the film carries Scorseses tradition fixations: the rotted core of mans heart; how power breeds the impulse for destruction; the myths of cowboys and outlaws and the dirty truth to them. Killers of the Flower Moon will be the 80-year-old filmmakers first film since The Irishman, which was released in 2019. Its set to be released theatrically on 20 October ahead of its premiere on Apple TV+. (Bloomberg) -- Armenian leaders of Nagorno-Karabakh said theyd disband their unrecognized administration and hand power to Azerbaijan after more than half the disputed regions population fled. Most Read from Bloomberg Samvel Shahramanyan, leader of the territorys Armenian administration, issued a decree saying it would dissolve state institutions and organizations by Jan. 1. That follows an agreement brokered by Russian peacekeepers to end an Azerbaijani military operation to bring the area back under its control. The Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh ceases to exist, Shahramanyan said in the decree. More than 68,300 people have fled from the territory to Armenia as of 12 p.m., the government in Yerevan said. Thats up from 50,000 at the end of the previous day. Local officials have said 120,000 Armenians lived in Nagorno-Karabakh before Azerbaijan carried out its lightning strike to restore control. No Armenian will be left in Nagorno-Karabakh in the coming days, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said at a government session Thursday. This is a direct act of ethnic cleansing and deportation and what we have been warning the international community about for a long time. Read more: Armenia Says Ethnic Cleansing Happening in Karabakh Region Azerbaijan denies the accusations of ethnic cleansing and says its working on plans to reintegrate the region. Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh and those who have already left will decide if they accept the terms of re-integration offered by Azerbaijan, Shahramanyan said. The mountainous area, which has a majority Armenian population but is recognized internationally as part of Azerbaijan, broke free of Bakus control in the waning days of the Soviet Union. It has changed hands in several wars that have killed tens of thousands of people and displaced more than 1 million. Senior US officials visited Baku on Wednesday. Washington is pressing Azerbaijan to allow an international monitoring mission into Nagorno-Karabakh to help ensure the security of local Armenians. President Ilham Aliyev told Samantha Power, head of the US Agency for International Development, and Acting Assistant Secretary of State Yuri Kim that hes ready to let the United Nations into Nagorno-Karabakh in the coming days. The European Union also called for international access to Nagorno-Karabakh for monitoring to ensure the rights of Armenians. It urged Azerbaijan to implement an amnesty. Read more: Azerbaijan Detains Ex-Moscow Banker Vardanyan at Armenian Border Authorities in Baku on Thursday charged former Moscow investment banker Ruben Vardanyan with financing terrorism. Vardanyan was briefly state minister in Nagorno-Karabakh unrecognized administration. Azerbaijan detained him Wednesday as he tried to cross the border into Armenia. (Updates with new number of people fleeing, details from 9th paragraph, charges against former Karabakh leader in final paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Co-chair of the Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, Sen. Becca Rausch, D-Needham, speaks Wednesday at a forum where as advocates urged lawmakers to favor measures that would require testing of private wells, especially at real estate transfers. Homeowners relying on wells for their drinking water may soon have to take the extra step of testing for contaminants when selling their property, if legislators pushing for the extension of clean drinking water standards include private wells. The measures, presented to supporters last week and presented to the Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources on Wednesday, would allow the state Department of Environmental Protection to set standards for private wells, much as it sets clean water standards for public water supplies. Some 200,000 private wells support half-million residents There are some 200,000 private wells in Massachusetts, mostly concentrated in central and western parts of the state. However, residents on Cape Cod also rely on well water and face unique problems when the water, drawn from shallow aquifers, becomes contaminated by fertilizers or residents septic systems. Roughly 500,000 residents statewide drink from private wells. We need statewide regulations and enforcement, said Oami Amarasingham of the Massachusetts Public Health Association. People cannot be healthy if they drink polluted water. Initiatives to document the condition of Massachusetts wells, undertaken by the Coalition for Safe Drinking Water, indicate that 30% of wells in the state could be contaminated by heavy metals, bacteria or PFAS. One initiative focused on testing in 84 communities where at least 60% of residents relied on wells for their drinking water. The good news is that 73% were PFAS-free, said David Reckhow, of the College of Engineering at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. However, PFAS exceeded federal guidelines in 6% of the tested wells. The residents didnt know their wells were polluted, Reckhow said. The state demands the routine testing of public water supplies but does not require testing of private well water. Committee Chairwoman Sen. Rebecca Rausch, D-Needham, asked about the nuts and bolts related to the requirement, from the cost of testing and mitigating pollution to how the requirement will be supported and funded. Supporters suggested the state extend the loan pool used for septic system testing and remediation, which provides zero- or low-interest loans to low-income residents to fix their wastewater systems. The costs are moderate, said Amie Shei, president and CEO of The Health Foundation of Central Massachusetts. Her estimate was supported by Mary Brolin, a Boxborough resident, Brandeis professor and homeowner with a private well. Brolin participated in a survey of well water and found that while her tap was clear of certain contaminants, it tested high for PFAS. We tested the well water when we purchased the home, but we didnt realize its recommended to test the water yearly, Brolin said. When she learned the well water was high in PFAS, Brolin purchased a reverse osmosis system for under her sink for $750. This is the first year, Brolin said, explaining she does not yet know what the yearly maintenance cost will be but expects it to be within a $200 range. My question was, How long have we been exposed to the PFAS? Brolin said. Dr. Amie Shei of The Health Foundation of Central Massachusetts discusses the dearth of testing of private wells in Massachusetts. Shei told the committee that the timing is perfect to enact legislation to regulate well water in Massachusetts. You must step up to the urgency of the moment, Shei said. The cost of inaction, she said, would be higher in terms of human health. Brita Lundberg of Lundberg Health Advocates said that the yearly cost to health could range in the billions. Hyannis spent $10 million; Barnstable spent $20 million to mitigate water issues, but thats still less than the cost to health, Lundberg said. Currently, local departments of public health can set well water standards for their communities. However, Phoebe Walker of the Franklin Regional Council of Governance said the patchwork method is neither efficient nor working well. Its an antiquated approach to ensuring the safety of drinking water, Walker said. Massachusetts residents with access to municipal water, those living in more urban areas, are assured of the water quality. Residents in more rural stretches of the state do not have similar assurances. This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Well water under scrutiny in Massachusetts, need for testing seen MATAWAN - A Republican candidate for Borough Council remains on the Nov. 7 ballot after he was accused of trying to strangle someone over the weekend, according to authorities. Joseph W. Saggese, 61, is charged with second-degree aggravated assault, said Mark Spivey, a spokesman for the Monmouth County Prosecutors Office. A second-degree crime in New Jersey is punishable by a maximum sentence of 10 years in state prison. He also faces a simple assault charge, which is a disorderly persons offense. On Monday, his two GOP running mates in this falls election mayoral candidate Charles Ross and council candidate Anissa Esposito disavowed their association with Saggese in a joint statement. Latest Headlines: Lakewood schools borrowed millions from New Jersey and still can't pay its bills We have been made aware of allegations against council candidate, Joseph Saggese, their statement said. While these are only allegations, and everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty, the nature of these allegations makes it impossible for us to continue our campaign with Mr. Saggese. We will continue to work to provide Matawan a new vision. The Patch reported Monday that the charges were related to an incident of domestic violence that took place one day earlier. Saggese was arrested and taken to the Monmouth County Jail in Freehold Township. He was no longer listed as an inmate there on Wednesday. The Monmouth County Clerks Office confirmed Wednesday that Saggese remains on this falls general election ballot in Matawan. Economic news: Are you in the middle class in New Jersey? Here's the minimum income for a family in NJ. Ross, Esposito and Saggese are running against Democratic incumbent Mayor Joseph Altomonte and his running mates, incumbent Councilwoman Deana Gunn and council candidate Arlan J. Feiles. Incumbent Councilwoman Stephanie Buckel is also running for reelection as an independent candidate. Saggese could not be reached for comment on Wednesday. Contact Asbury Park Press reporter Erik Larsen at elarsen@gannettnj.com. This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Matawan NJ GOP council candidate Joseph Saggese charged with assault A new type of wrongful death lawsuit has come out of the tragedy of the Maui wildfires. Harold Wells, whose daughter Rebecca Rans died in the fires, sued large landowners and an electrical company. He claimed in the suit that they were liable for creating hazardous conditions through growing wild grasses and leaving power lines to crumble. The father of a woman killed in this summer's Maui wildfires is suing landowners who he says grew grasses that could easily catch fire and electrical companies who he says did not maintain power lines. According to the wrongful death lawsuit filed on September 4, Harold Wells' daughter Rebecca Rans died due to the wildfires in Lahaina. Wells, in his lawsuit, has taken aim at the Hawaiian government, Maui County, and Kamehameha Schools, also known as the Bishop Estate, one of the largest landowners in Hawaii. The lawsuit alleges that the landowners irresponsibly let non-native grasses grow despite repeated warnings about flammability and claims that Hawaiian Electric failed to reinforce their power lines for the high winds. Wells is suing the defendants for negligence, landowner negligence, public nuisance, strict liability, and inverse condemnation in a lawsuit seeking damages. According to Reuters, it's also the first lawsuit coming out of the disaster that makes the argument that the growing of non-native grass was an "inherently dangerous activity," like storing explosives. Hawaiian Electric has also been sued and blamed for the fires by Maui County in another lawsuit. The lawsuit references the 2018 wildfires in Maui, which destroyed 22 homes, and argued that the defendants did not adequately prepare for wildfires. "Utilities did not harden the grid or develop de-energization policies to reduce the risk of electrical fires. Large landowners did not properly maintain, remove or replace flammable non-native grass and brush to reduce the fuel load for fire spread," Wells' attorneys wrote in the lawsuit. "When another hurricane approached the islands in August 2023, just five years later, none of these entities can claim that it was unforeseeable that electrical caused fires would be driven by the wind across large unmanaged grasslands into Lahaina." Maui County, Kamehameha Schools, and Hawaiian Electric did not immediately return Insider's requests for comment. Wells' attorneys claim that the defendants ignored multiple Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization reports from 2018 onwards that warned of the flammable threat of the non-native grass species during a time of increased wildfires. Wells' lawsuit says the toxic combination of negligence and liability directly contributed to his daughter's death, where she was burned to death a few blocks from her home while trying to escape, per the lawsuit. "Her beautiful Hawaiian gold bracelet survived, identified as hers by the word 'KU'UIPO,' or 'sweetheart' in Hawaiian," Wells' attorney wrote. "Her left slipper was on and it was clear she perished trying desperately to escape the Lahaina Fire, which had already engulfed her home." An attorney for Wells did not immediately return Insider's request for comment. Read the original article on Insider While colder temperatures are generally recommended for sleeping, a new study found that older adults may do better in warmer temperatures. While colder temperatures are generally recommended for sleeping, a new study found that older adults may do better in warmer temperatures. Feeling rested and ready for the day is the goal every morning, but how often it happens is another thing entirely. Many things can impact just how well (or not) you sleep one of which is your bedroom temperature. Its often said that a chilly room is ideal for a good nights rest; the National Sleep Foundation recommends a room temperature between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit for ideal sleep. But, a recent study published in the journal Science of The Total Environment found that it may not be the best temperature for everyone. The research suggests that older adults sleep best in warmer environments specifically in temperatures ranging from 68 to 77 degrees. To gather this data, 50 study participants wore sleep monitors that tracked restlessness, sleep duration and sleep efficiency. An environmental sensor monitored participants bedroom temperatures. According to the Washington Post, the study consisted of people above 65 years old who were followed for 12 months at some point during the studys timeline, from October 2021 to February 2023. In all, the study consisted of 11,000 nights of sleep. The study had a few limitations; it was small and only included people in the Boston area. But experts told HuffPost that there is still merit to this research. I think the findings of this article are noteworthy, even with the small sample size, because the researchers objectively measured room temperature and followed subjects over time, said Phil Gehrman, an associate professor of clinical psychology in psychiatry at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, who was not affiliated with the study. However, he did note that there isnt much other research that underscores the studys findings. This means more needs to be conducted to make any definitive conclusions. That said, the research gives many of us food for thought. How do you uncover your ideal sleep temperature? Are there reasons why some sleep better in warmer temperatures more than others? Heres what experts think: Your best sleep temperature is determined by a few factors. The study emphasized that ideal sleep temperature varies from person to person 68 to 77 degrees is a large range. Individual preference is probably the largest determining factor. These results highlight the potential to enhance sleep quality in older adults by optimizing home thermal environments and emphasizing the importance of personalized temperature adjustments based on individual needs and circumstances, Amir Baniassadi, the lead study researcher, said in a news release. In other words, some people may be hot and sweaty in a 77-degree room at night, while others may be perfectly content. Whats best for your sleep isnt always best for your neighbor, friend or partner. As the study points out, there is a good deal of variability from person to person in terms of what the ideal temperature is for sleep, Gehrman said. I would encourage people to experiment with different room temperatures to see if they can find one that works well for them. Dr. Rafael Pelayo, a clinical professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences and sleep medicine at Stanford University and author of How To Sleep, added that your ideal temperature could result from your health, too. Certain groups of people like those with sleep apnea and folks going through menopause tend to sleep warm. So, in these cases, turning the thermostat up will certainly not help them get better rest. And, in general, Pelayo generally recommends a sleep temperature below 70 degrees usually 68 degrees. Its hard for us to sleep in hot weather people get uncomfortable, it gets sticky, Pelayo said. In fact, when you look at how sleeping surfaces are marketed these days, blankets and sheets, everythings talking about cooling. Theyre getting heat away from you. But technology thats focused on warming, instead, could be an interesting space, particularly for older people, Pelayo noted. Before quickly changing something about your sleep routine, test it out for at least a week, experts say. Before quickly changing something about your sleep routine, test it out for at least a week, experts say. It takes about a week to accurately determine your ideal sleep temperature. To figure out your right temperature, start around the 68-degree Fahrenheit mark the temperature with the most supported, established research and work from there. Keep a log of how you felt through the night. Did you wake up cold? Are your feet chilly or too warm? Do you think a fan would help? How about an extra blanket? Take note of your observations for at least seven days, the experts said. I would caution people from making decisions based on only one or two nights because our sleep fluctuates on its own. Some nights are better than others, Pelayo explained. You dont want to adjust the thermostat for just one night, wake up feeling more rested and assume that you found the solution. Or, oppositely, you dont want to have a bad night of rest after turning the heat up and think thats the reason, too. I ask patients not to make decisions just on one or two nights, but to wait usually a week to see whether what theyre experiencing is really happening, Pelayo said. Gehrman agreed that folks should stick with a room temperature for a week before trying another temperature to see how it truly impacts their sleep. Beyond sleep, you can also use this one-week test for other sleep hygiene changes. For instance, you could use a white noise machine for a week or put up blackout curtains to see if a dark space helps you feel more rested. Or, you could implement a phone-free evening routine the hour before bed. Some people may require more support than just a change in room temperature for better sleep. Of course, its important to keep in mind that if someone has chronic sleep problems, adjusting room temperature alone is probably not going to [be] enough to help them sleep better, but it can be a part of the solution, Gehrman said. For people with chronic sleep problems like insomnia and sleep apnea, its best to talk to your doctor to get individualized sleep solutions. Additionally, you may even be a candidate for a sleep evaluation. If these things continue to happen and they disturb [your sleep], just get tested, Dr. Daniel Barone, a sleep medicine doctor at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York, previously told HuffPost. Sleep evaluations can track how much you wake up at night, how much oxygen you get as you sleep, how long you spend in REM sleep and more. So, they can help you rest better if turning the temperature up or down isnt enough. Related... A woman from St. Louis, Missouri, has been trying to prove that she is not deceased for decades after learning that her Social Security number was associated with a dead person. Madeline-Michelle Carthen learned that her Social Security number had been compromised while she was preparing for a summer internship and exchange program in Ghana through Webster University back in 2007. Carthen told KSDK News that her life has been a nightmare ever since due to government red tape. Madeline-Michelle Carthen has been trying to prove shes not dead since 2007. (Photo: KSDK News / YouTube screenshot) A nightmare of corruption. No oversight with government. Its like a haunting, she said. I got denied my financial aid. Now, theyre saying, Prove to us youre not dead. Carthen added that she initially dismissed the news as a mistake and laughed. I laughed, said Carthen. I said, What do you mean? Im sitting right here. Ive been at school over a year and a half. How am I dead? Is this going to affect my international internship? Carthen was told to contact the Social Security Administration to have the error fixed, and when she did, she found out that shed been added to SSAs Death Master File. According to NBC News, the Death Master File is an internal compilation of SSA records of deceased people. Related: Mother of US Army Private Travis King Who Crossed Border Into North Korea In July Is Forever Grateful That He Carthen was told her name was added in error and given a death erroneous letter to show that she was still alive to hand over to bureaus. However, Carthen said her troubles didnt end after she received the letter and instead got worse. Well, it got worse because it wasnt creditors, she explained. Being in the Death Master File, it went to the IRS, it went to the Department of Homeland Security, it went to E-verify, all of these things. It just started affecting my life. The 52-year-old said that her life has been disrupted ever since, and she was forced to quit school due to the Social Security issue. Carthen has also lost employment because human resources couldnt process her payroll, and she has also lost homes because of the error. She lives with her sister because she cant get a mortgage. Sometimes I can get a job, and then within so many months, theres going to be a problem. So its like I can get it, and then its yanked back from me. But I dont know when its going to be yanked back, she said. I just know Im alive. I dont care what A.I. says or software says, but Im alive. But its hard to prove that. Carthen changed her name in 2021 and was issued a new Social Security number, and she hoped that her nightmare was over. Unfortunately, the new Social Security number is continuously flagged because it is connected to her old Social Security number. St. Louis consumer protection attorney Creighton Cohn told KSDK that being declared deceased impacts every aspect of ones life. Read the full story here. It can really impact every single aspect of your life, Cohn said. So the first is to figure out where the information came from, so get your credit report. Carthen has no idea how her name got on the list, and she filed a $12 million federal lawsuit against the Social Security Administration and other government agencies in 2019. However, the judge dismissed the lawsuit, citing the government as having sovereign immunity. David Seymour, a spokesperson from the Social Security Administration, told KSDK News that it receives three million death reports annually, and their records are highly accurate with less than one-third of 1 percent needing corrections. I dont know how this is going to work out, said Carthen. I just keep advocating and fighting, and when I say fighting, within my spirit. Sometimes, I wanna give up, but my faith is too strong. I dont care if it takes 20 years. Im going to still do what I got to do to make this situation right, not just for myself but for others. DMG Mori, a German-Japanese company and one of the worlds largest producers of machine cutting tools, has continued to do business with Russian firms that manufacture military hardware, according to an investigation by the independent Russian news agency Agentsvo released on Sept. 27. Despite promises to halt its work in Russia and withdraw from the country after the beginning of the full-scale invasion, DMG Mori maintained its factory in Ulyanovsk, Russia, Agentsvo found. The tools created by DMG Mori are used by the Russian military industry to create engines for military aircraft, as well as the aircraft themselves. Local Russian manufacturers do not have the capacity to produce these tools themselves at scale, which is why DMG Mori has remained crucial to the Russian military, according to the investigation. On Sept. 20, Ukraines National Corruption Prevention Agency (NACP) added DMG Mori and other international companies to the list of war sponsors and sanctions evaders. As with many other international companies that have continued to do business with Russia despite sanctions, Agenstvo alleges that DMG Mori uses intermediary entities as a means of disguising that the ultimate partner for goods and services is located in Russia. After the beginning of the full-scale invasion, Andrei Sokolov, the head of the Russian entity of DMG Mori, received Israeli citizenship along with his family, changed their names, and relocated to Germany. In an interview with the German paper Tagesspiegel, Sokolovs wife Natalya Goldman (formerly Sokolova) stated that she and her husband opposed the war, and that she had pleaded with Andrei not to go to anti-war protests in Russia. Nonetheless, DMG Mori remained under Andrei Goldman-Sokolovs leadership from their new residence in Germany. In a conversation with Agenstvo, he confirmed that he still worked for DMG Mori in Germany, but declined to answer any further questions. Violating sanctions, even indirectly, is a crime in Germany, and can result in a prison sentence of three to ten years if convicted, as well as a potential fine of up to 500,000 euros for individuals, or 10 million euros for a company. Read also: StateWatch: German-made shell production machine en route to Russia Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. A poll released ahead of parliamentary elections in Slovakia scheduled for Sept. 30 illustrate the split between the Slovak electorate on support for Ukraine and a slight lead for opposition leader Robert Fico , Slovak newspaper Dennik N reported. The poll, conducted by Ipsos for Dennik N, found that the Direction-Social Democracy party (SMER), led by Fico, received 20.6% of support, compared to 19.8% for Progressive Slovakia (PS), the liberal challenger. Fico, who previously served as Prime Minister of Slovakia from 2006 to 2010, has previously stated he would end Slovakias support of Ukraine if he returns to power. In an interview with the AP, Fico said that "we wont send any arms or ammunition to Ukraine anymore, if SMER forms a government. He also opposes EU sanctions against Russia and wants Slovakia, a NATO member, to block Ukraine from joining the alliance. Fico 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 an unfounded claim common in Russian propaganda. After Fico was re-elected as prime minister in 2012, he 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. In contrast, Ficos primary opponent Michal Simecka,who leads PS, has promised to maintain support for Ukraine. He stressed that a reversal of Slovakias current position of providing support would put the nation at odds with other EU and NATO countries, and could cause Slovakia to become isolated. Due to the narrow split between the two parties, it is unlikely that either will gain an overwhelming majority and will have to form a governing coalition. Read also: Holding elections during full-scale war doesnt make sense, experts say Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. WASHINGTON Sen. Bob Menendez , D-N.J., who faces federal bribery charges, emerged from a meeting Thursday with his fellow Senate Democrats defiant despite calls for his resignation. "I will continue to cast votes on behalf of the people of New Jersey as I have for 18 years. And I am sure when they need those votes, theyll be looking for it, for me to catch those votes," Menendez told reporters after the closed-door luncheon. Menendez's remarks lasted less than 15 minutes, and no questions were asked once he finished speaking, according to sources and senators who were at the meeting. Senators listened respectfully, but there was no applause or response from anyone, a source said. Democrats appeared to look at one another waiting for someone to ask the first question of him, but no one ever did, another source said. He just basically gave a very compassionate speech, Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., told reporters, adding that Menendez did not discuss the allegations against him. Another senator who was in the room said Menendez said he would continue to resist calls for his resignation. He went through a lot of background of how he why he felt as strong as he feels, the senator said. During the luncheon, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., had asked senators serving on the Ethics Committee to leave the room, as well as its staff members. Sens. Chris Coons of Delaware, Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire and Brian Schatz of Hawaii, who are members of the panel, all stepped out of the meeting around 1:30 p.m., a source in the room said. Pressure for Menendez to resign has grown since he was indicted last week. As of Thursday afternoon, 30 Senate Democrats a majority of the caucus have called on him to step down. Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut said Menendez's remarks did not change his position. Ive called on him to resign, I spoke to him before I issued my statement, and I really dont have anything more to say. Certainly Im not of a different mind now, Blumenthal told reporters after the meeting. Sen. John Hickenlooper of Colorado said, "Obviously, we lost a tremendous amount of trust. Menendez and his wife, Nadine, were charged with bribery in connection with allegations that they accepted hundreds of thousands of dollars in return for the use of the senators influence to enrich three New Jersey businessmen and benefit the Egyptian government. The charges Menendez faces include conspiracy to commit bribery, conspiracy to commit honest services fraud and conspiracy to commit extortion under color of official right. The bribes he and his wife allegedly received included cash, gold bars, payments toward a home mortgage, compensation for a low-or-no-show job, a luxury vehicle and other items of value, according to the indictment. On his way into the Capitol on Thursday, Menendez was asked by reporters where the gold bars that federal agents discovered in his New Jersey home came from. "I'll share what I have to share with my colleagues," he said. Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, the first Senate Democrat to call for Menendez's resignation, said he did not attend the lunch because there is nothing Menendez can say or do except resign. Its a pattern, and he really needs to decide to resign," Fetterman said. Hes clearly not going to have an honorable exit. Menendez has denied all allegations of wrongdoing. He and his wife pleaded not guilty at their arraignment Wednesday in a New York City courtroom. Three other defendants charged in the case have also pleaded not guilty. On Thursday, the top Democrat in the House implied that it was time for Menendez to go. "I think that the allegations that have been made against the senator are deeply troubling and should shock the conscience," House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., told reporters at his weekly news conference. "The senator is entitled to the presumption of innocence, as well as his day in court. At the end of the day, his fate will be decided by a jury of his peers. Yet, it's hard for me to see how the senator can effectively, at this moment, represent the people he's ably served for decades in New Jersey." This article was originally published on NBCNews.com (Bloomberg) -- New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez told fellow Democrats he wont resign despite a growing chorus of calls from within his own party to do so following his indictment on federal corruption charges. Most Read from Bloomberg The embattled three-term senator spoke for about 15 minutes during a closed-door meeting with Senate Democrats on Thursday and said he planned to stay in his seat, West Virginia Democrat Joe Manchin said. Hes going to vigorously defend his innocence, Manchin said. Menendez, he said, didnt address hell run for reelection next year. Most other Democrats, including several who have called for his resignation, refused to disclose any details of the meeting. Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, who said he boycotted the meeting since he didnt expect the New Jerseyan to step aside, said Menendez should be forced out. Asked whether he might try to push for a resolution expelling Menendez from the Senate, Fetterman responded that whatever kinds of procedure that could get rid of him, Im all for forcing it. Menendez left through a back exit and would not answer when asked if he would cooperate with a Senate ethics investigation. He told reporters he looks forward to casting votes. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who has said little since a Friday statement supporting Menendezs right to serve while fighting the charges, did not comment to reporters as he left the meeting. He said Wednesday he would at some point say more after hearing what Menendez had to say. Menendezs political support collapsed after prosecutors charged he had received bribes of gold bars, hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash and a Mercedes convertible in return for official favors extended to three businessmen. The bribes allegedly began around the same time federal prosecutors dropped an earlier corruption case against Menendez in 2018 following a trial that ended with a hung jury. His wife, Nadine, and the businessmen were also charged. Menendez, 69, has repeatedly denied wrongdoing. Though he gave up the chairmanship of the Foreign Relations Committee, more than half of Senate Democrats have called on him to quit. Earlier: Senator Menendez Charged With Taking Bribes of Gold Bars, Cash Menendezs decision to stay in the Senate complicates Democrats strategy in next years elections to attack former President Donald Trump and his allies over his criminal indictments. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and a few other Democrats called on him to step down hours after the criminal charges had been announced. By Tuesday morning, their voices were joined by a chorus of Senate Democrats, including Cory Booker, a close ally and his states junior senator, Gary Peters of Michigan, the leader of the partys Senate campaign arm, and many endangered Senate Democrats who face tough re-election fights next year. Fetterman said Democrats cant afford the tarnish Menendez might bring to their effort to keep the Senate in 2024, when they will be defending seats in some GOP-heavy states like Montana and Ohio. Fetterman said hes concerned that New Jersey could now be in play for Republicans, if Menendez ends up on the ballot. He added that he finds Menendezs defiance to be remarkable. I cant imagine him marching in here and standing in front of people and saying, Let me explain the gold in the mattress, and the cash and its an emergency kind of a thing, he said. Its bizarre. If Menendez ran for reelection, he would likely face a bruising primary. Representative Andy Kim, a fellow New Jersey Democrat, said hell challenge Menendez. Other possible Democratic candidates include Representatives Mikie Sherrill and Josh Gottheimer. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Sen. Ben Cardin, D-Md., talks to reporters as he holds Pen and Pad on assuming chairmanship of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) WASHINGTON (AP) The new chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee pointed Thursday to possible policy shifts affecting Egypt, Turkey, the war in Ukraine and other issues around the globe as he took over the powerful leadership of the panel, replacing indicted Sen. Bob Menendez. Sen. Ben Cardin , a veteran Maryland Democrat, will have an abbreviated term leading the committee because his term expires in January 2025 and he is not seeking reelection. He described him unexpectedly inheriting the chairmanship, with its power to help shape how the United States approaches the rest of the world, as a pinch yourself moment. Cardin spoke to reporters under the chandelier and vaulted ceiling of the historic 19th-century committee room on his first full day on the job. Menendez was indicted on Sept. 22 on charges he and his wife, Nadine, accepted bribes including cash and gold bars in transactions that included using his position as committee chairman to influence some U.S. policy decisions in favor of Egypt's autocratic government. The indictment alleges that included helping Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi's government overcome human-rights restrictions limiting a small portion of what is more than $1 billion in annual U.S. military aid to Egypt. Menendez and his wife have pleaded not guilty. Cardin, before becoming chairman, had condemned the Biden administration's decision this year to override a human-rights prohibition on $235 million of this year's military aid to Egypt. The administration cited national security interests for waiving the human rights restrictions, even though the State Department acknowledged Egypt had made no progress on detaining journalists, writers and rights advocates, as well as other human rights abuses. Asked Thursday if he intended to stop the distribution of that money if it could still be stopped, Cardin said he was looking at his options." He said he wanted to give the administration and some lawmakers a hearing on the issue before reaching a final decision. As chairman, Cardin can place holds on some funding and sales. Cardin signaled another break, regarding Turkey, a NATO partner that for years has sought to buy advanced warplanes from the U.S. but has been repeatedly blocked, including by Menendez. Menendez had placed a hold barring the sale of F-16s to Turkey, arguing in part that he was concerned about Turkey having more air power than Greece, its neighbor and rival. Cardin made clear he was open to considering moving forward on the sales, if he is satisfied with points, including any additional threat to Greece and on Turkey's human rights. Turkey has used the veto power held by each NATO member to block Sweden's entry into the Western military alliance, even though the U.S. and European allies want Sweden in the bloc to strengthen NATO's northern flank against Russia. Turkey has linked its getting the F-16s to its decision on Sweden joining NATO. Cardin, who attended a gathering of NATO ambassadors this week, said Turkey has indicated it would clear the way for Swedens membership in the first part of October. The power of Senate Foreign Relations Committee chairs to give a thumbs up or thumbs down on some key U.S. decisions makes the committee's chairs at least as well-known in some foreign countries as they are in the United States. In Turkey, some news media are celebrating Menendez's legal difficulties. A CNN Turk political panel gleefully showed the indicted senator as a sobbing SpongeBob SquarePants. Ahmet Hakan, a journalist with close ties to President Recep Tayyip Erdogans administration, used his column in Sundays Hurriyet newspaper to comment on the case against Menendez, who he said opposed Turkey to the death. Together we can celebrate it with...laughter: Hahaha! he wrote. In Latin America, Menendez, whose parents immigrated from Cuba, was widely seen as using his influence to block any further thaw in U.S. relations with Cuba, even as he helped some Latino causes and politicians in the U.S. Former Cuban diplomat Carlos Alzugaray told the AP the fall of Menendez would be significant for his island. In any case, the pressure goes down," Alzugaray said. Tellingly, Cuba did not even come up as Cardin ran down a list of his foreign policy priorities with reporters Thursday. Cardin described working to maintain the U.S. flow of money and arms to Ukraine against invading Russian forces as by far the highest priority for him. It's one he sees as crucial to the United States' own security and its ability to influence global affairs, he made clear. Ukraine's supporters in Congress should do a better job of making that case to Americans, he said. China's watching whether Americans stand by Ukraine's defense, to guide China's decision on how far it pushes to assert its claim to Taiwan, Cardin said. North Korea's watching. Iran's watching, he said. Cardin also addressed the Biden administration's push to broker an agreement for the first broad diplomatic relations between U.S. ally Israel and Gulf heavyweight Saudi Arabia as a game-changer in the region, and one he was excited about. Biden officials and other supporters say the deal would help stabilize the Middle East and boost the economies of the Middle East. There's recognition that this is going to happen. There's going to meaningful changes, Cardin said, saying that he was seeing conversations involving Israel and the Palestinians that I didn't think we could have" as part of those broader negotiations. He gave no details. Saudi Arabia, as a condition for agreeing to the deal, is asking the U.S. for security commitments and for assistance in developing its civilian nuclear program. Cardin said he would be active in setting the terms for any such U.S.-Saudi agreement. It must meet the highest standards, and theres got to be guardrails. And as far as any security agreement that the United States commits to help defend another country to make sure its always in our national security interest to get engaged," he said. Issues on Saudi Arabia's poor human rights record would need to be addressed, he said, and handed reporters a printout on a Saudi man rights groups say has been tortured and imprisoned over tweets critical of the Saudi government. - Andrew Wilks contributed from Istanbul and Andrea Rodriguez from Havana. Starting Monday, a program including Stanislaus County and the Superior Court will try to assist people who arent getting treated for severe mental illness. Stanislaus is one of seven counties in the states CARE Court pilot program aiming to get people with untreated mental disorders off the streets and into housing and treatment. Many of these adults are not sheltered and exhibit behavior that could lead to injury or incarceration. The CARE (Community Assistance, Recovery and Empowerment) Act requires counties to provide services for people with severe untreated disorders, such as schizophrenia, through voluntary or court-ordered treatment plans. Stanislaus County has a rich history of implementing innovative mental health programs, said Ruben Imperial, assistant county executive officer. As the CARE Court program emerged, we were one of the counties the state reached out to and invited us to participate. Stanislaus, Tuolumne, Glenn, San Francisco, Orange, Riverside and San Diego counties are rolling out their programs next week. Los Angeles is slated to begin court-mandated treatment in December, and other counties are expected to implement programs in December 2024. The county expects 90 to 100 people will participate in CARE Court the first year. Counties implementing the CARE Act could assist 12,000 people, statewide. Imperial said family members, behavioral health staff, first responders, hospital directors or friends can petition the Superior Court for a mental health evaluation of someone who needs help. One criteria is that the illness has become so severe its impairing their daily functioning and decision-making. Families may file a petition for a loved one whose untreated condition is becoming more severe and is impacting their daily living, Imperial said. A roommate may also petition the court. A judge will review petitions and may order a care team to perform a mental health assessment and develop a plan for treatment if needed. County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services will work with the individual and the persons appointed attorney to design a plan that may include mental health care, medication and housing. County behavioral health staff will keep tabs on the individual through the treatment process. Improving access to mental health treatment for homeless adults is a priority, but people who are not currently homeless are eligible for CARE Court. Imperial noted that adults who meet the CARE Act criteria probably are not employed anymore and risk losing their housing if they are not already homeless. CARE Act petitions can also be submitted for people in crisis whove received emergency psychiatric care multiple times because they dont get outpatient treatment for mental illness. In addition, some criminal defendants can be diverted from court proceedings to CARE court. County officials dont expect CARE Court will eliminate homelessness. But they hope it will be a lifesaver for many and divert people with mental illness away from restrictive conservatorships, arrest or incarceration, while giving them support in the community. Under law, people cant be forced to take medication. But there could be consequences for those not complying with a court-ordered plan, depending on how the CARE Act statute is interpreted. The CARE Act says if a person is failing to participate in the process, the judge may terminate the plan. In that event, the statute says the court shall provide notice to the county behavioral health agency and office of the public conservator and guardian. The persons failure to complete the CARE plan will be considered if theres a subsequent conservatorship hearing in court, the statute says. County officials have interpreted that to mean a person not complying with CARE Court has a greater chance of placement in a restrictive conservatorship. But those questions are left up to the court, Imperial said. Judge Ruben Villalobos, who will preside over CARE Court in Stanislaus County, said Thursday its not appropriate to give his interpretation of the statute ahead of time. But philosophically, he said, its clear CARE Court is a voluntary program and he will do everything within the law to encourage participants to cooperate with treatment. I will be inviting all parties to look at outside-the-box ways to access services, Villalobos said. I am not looking at what happens if they fail. I am looking at what we can do to help folks succeed. The Superior Court will hold CARE Court once a week (Mondays) to start with and will devote more court time depending on the number of petitions, Villalobos said. Imperial said the first year will be a learning process for counties and courts in the pilot program, and what is done about noncompliance may be handled differently in each county. Stanislaus, as one of the first counties, was expecting to receive $3.7 million from the state for planning and implementation. County BHRS added 15 staff positions for CARE Act services. The state has said housing is an essential component of mental health care, so CARE Court participants will have priority for whats available in the county, whether its an adult residential facility, board and care home or supportive housing, Imperial said. Imperial said a court website was created with information on filing petitions. The court starting Monday will accept petitions at windows 10 and 11 in the Family Law lobby at 1100 I St. in Modesto. The website says forms can be filed electronically and assistance is available from the Self-Help Center. Mercury Fund, an early-stage venture firm, closed on $160 million in capital commitments for its fifth fund, also its largest. In general, its been a busy month for venture capital firms announcing new capital commitments. Mercury Fund joins firms, including Mythos Ventures, Connect Ventures, Fuse and Unconventional Ventures, in announcing new funds this month. Blair Garrou, Mercury Fund Blair Garrou, co-founder and managing director of Mercury Fund. Image Credits: Mercury Fund Having been around for a decade now, the firm was previously known as DFJ Mercury. In 2013, it took on the Mercury Fund moniker when Draper Fisher Jurvetson restructured its entities. Today, Mercury Fund has helped create more than $9 billion of enterprise value across its portfolio of over 50 companies. This fifth fund had an initial target of $150 million and is backed by existing investors and new limited partners, including university endowments, foundations and family offices. Many of the new investors are based in the central United States where Mercury invests, Blair Garrou, co-founder and managing director of Mercury Fund, told TechCrunch. Houston-based Mercury Fund typically raises every three to four years to give time to deploy the capital, Garrou said. Some funds in the past have taken longer to raise, but this one actually wasn't nearly as long, Garrou added. That was due to the performance of our previous fund. We closed right before COVID, but we put it to work during COVID. We had some really great companies in that fund cycle, including Cart.com, Otto and Signal Advisors. Finding SaaS opportunities The firms model includes investing in founders building transformational SaaS and data platforms in smaller technology markets outside of the coastal tech hubs. These are regions where they dont have the kinds of startup ecosystems or resources as their counterparts on the coast. In speaking about where opportunities are for SaaS in those regions, Garrou said over five years ago, there was more focus on business-to-business as it relates to industrial SaaS. For example, the automotive, food and beverage and energy industries. Today, the emphasis is on vertical SaaS and entrepreneurs taking over the consumer experience. For example, Garrou saw that in Otto and also in RepeatMD, one of its investments from the new fund. RepeatMD is a Houston-based patient engagement and fintech platform for doctors selling non-insurance reimbursed products. You're starting to see these clusters of activity of really successful companies picking up the SaaS playbook and pushing that forward, Garrou said. Back in fund three, we were almost entirely B2B. That's now expanded into B2B2C and data platforms for fund five. Therefore, Mercury has created an operationally-focused investment model that helps provide those resources so portfolio companies can more rapidly grow. A middle America fund Mercury Fund was raising for its fifth fund in 2021, while deploying capital from its fourth fund, which Garrou said was our best performing fund to date. That year, the firms portfolio had over 10 exits, he added, which seemed to make the limited partners very happy. Garrou described the fundraising environment as pretty robust, noting that the firms model came into maturity during that time. When funding took a downturn in 2022, Garrou went back to Mercurys LPs to reopen conversations, and not only did the LPs stick with them, but some doubled down on their initial investment. And, once the recession period began, Mercury, already working with its companies to be capital efficient, was really attractive to institutional investors, Garrou said. Being a middle America fund, it's always challenging raising capital, but our model is just different, Garrou added. During COVID is when we saw hybrid work become the norm, and companies could hire talent from anywhere and raise capital from anywhere. That really sat well with our fund being very operationally-focused. In addition to RepeatMD, Mercury has made seven investments from the fifth fund so far. Garrou expects to make between 18 and 20 investments overall. Others include Polco, a community engagement polling platform for local and state governments based in Wisconsin, MSPbots, a Chicago-based AI-driven process automation platform for small and mid-sized managed service providers, and Brassica, a financial infrastructure technology company developing enterprise solutions for alternative assets, based in Houston and Cheyenne, Wyoming. We expect to do another two to three years of investing throughout this fund, Garrou said. Then our hope is that we'll have another great liquidity period in 2025 like we had in 2021. If so, we'd love to raise again some time after that. Have a juicy tip or lead about happenings in the venture world? Send tips to Christine Hall at chall.techcrunch@gmail.com or Signal at 832-862-1051. Anonymity requests will be respected. A DeKalb County mother sat down with her sons high school principal to demand answers after he was attacked in the schools restroom while more than 20 others watched. At least 22 boys were in the restroom at Cedar Grove High School vaping when a fight broke out and one boy was violently attacked. Stephanie Barnes sat down exclusively with Channel 2s Tyisha Fernandes after she recorded a conversation with the principal. She says her 17-year-old son was attacked two weeks ago. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] It was very scary. I immediately reached out to the school board and the principal, Barnes described. Several boys were vaping in the restroom. Barnes says her son was in the wrong for being part of the group, but she was concerned about so many being in there at the same time. She spoke with Principal Clifton Spears the next day and recorded their conversation. The fact that there are 20 plus kids in that video, in that bathroom, unsupervised is ridiculous, Barnes can be heard saying. So, so you want us to be in the bathroom? Spears replies. I want somebody. There shouldnt be 20 children in there, she said. You are absolutely right, maam, and that happens every day, the principal said. Then it needs to stop, Barnes told Spears. Regardless of what we...so what you want us to do? Because I talk to them every day. I go in there every day. It happens every day. I dont have time every day to watch them go in the bathroom because they want to vape, Spears told her. TRENDING STORIES: Principal Spears goes on to say that there are teachers close by when this is happening. Ok, and at no point does the teacher go in and see all these children going in? Barnes questioned. Teachers, thats not their responsibility to go in the bathroom, Spears said. To see that theres 20-something students in there, thats negligent, she said. No, its not. This is not elementary school, he said. Barnes son was suspended but district administrators ended up reducing the suspension for him from 10 days to five. They also shared a statement with Fernandes that read in part, Since the incident, Cedar Grove High School has implemented extra security protocols and monitoring to reduce bathroom overcrowding before and during school hours [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) The Metro Nashville Police Department is asking for the publics help finding two women accused of attacking and throwing gasoline on a Walgreens employee. The incident happened on Sept. 3 after the employee spotted the women shoplifting items from the store in the 1000 block of Murfreesboro Pike and confronted them, according to police. Metro police are looking for the women pictured in connection with a shoplifting incident followed by an assault. (Courtesy: MNPD) CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee The employee managed to retrieve the items, but was physically assaulted, authorities said. Afterward, one of the women reportedly grabbed a gas can from the trunk of a black Chevrolet four-door sedan and threw gasoline on the employee. The two women then took off in the car, according to officials. Metro police are looking for this car in connection with a shoplifting incident followed by an assault. (Courtesy: MNPD) Anyone who recognizes the women from surveillance photos is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. Callers can remain anonymous and qualify for a cash reward. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Detectives with Metros Summerlin Area Command are searching for a suspect accused of an August burglary in the west Las Vegas valley. On Aug, 11 around 8 p.m., the suspect burglarized a vehicle in the area of Charleston Boulevard an Fort Apache Road, police said. Metro police search for a suspect accused of burglarizing a vehicle near Charleston Boulevard and Fort Apache Road on Aug. 11, 2023 (LVMPD) Metro police search for a suspect accused of burglarizing a vehicle near Charleston Boulevard and Fort Apache Road on Aug. 11, 2023 (LVMPD) Metro police search for a suspect accused of burglarizing a vehicle near Charleston Boulevard and Fort Apache Road on Aug. 11, 2023 (LVMPD) Metro police search for a suspect accused of burglarizing a vehicle near Charleston Boulevard and Fort Apache Road on Aug. 11, 2023 (LVMPD) If you can identify the suspects or have any information, please contact Detective Sakoff at (702)828-9453. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers of Nevada at (702)385-5555 or by visiting crimestoppersofnv.com For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. 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 Demonstrators occupied the platform, at the Rio Arriba County Complex in Espanola, New Mexico Demonstrators occupied the platform, at the Rio Arriba County Complex in Espanola, New Mexico By Andrew Hay ESPANOLA, New Mexico (Reuters) - A New Mexico county halted the reinstallation of a 16th-century Spanish conquistador statue on Wednesday after protests over the return of the bronze figure, removed three years ago during nationwide anti-racism demonstrations. The northern county of Rio Arriba postponed a Thursday reinstatement ceremony after activists occupied a concrete pedestal in the city of Espanola, where the statue of Juan de Onate was set to be placed. The event is postponed until further notice "in the interest of public safety," the county said in a statement. Dozens of monuments to European colonizers and Confederate generals came down in 2020 during racial justice protests. The unusual move to reinstate the Onate statue drew outrage from Native Americans and others who regard him as a war criminal for ordering the massacre of Indigenous people. "We plan to keep fighting to make sure this symbol of murder, this symbol of slavery does not go up," said Celina Montoya Garcia, a member of the nearby Native American Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo community and a coordinator for the Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women. County Commission Chairman Alex Naranjo and other local officials backed reinstatement of the statue to celebrate Hispanic heritage in a county where 71% of people are Hispanic, 20% Native American and many descended from both races. "It's important to recognize that Don Juan de Onate led many of our families here to this valley," said Espanola Mayor John Ramon Vigil, who supports displaying the statue. First erected in 1994 in Alcalde just north of Espanola, the statue has long outraged those who trace Onates brutal 1598 colonization of New Mexico to contemporary problems ranging from gender inequality to institutional racism. One of the statue's feet was sawn off in 1997 by a protester to symbolize the two dozen Acoma Pueblo Native men who each had one foot amputated at the order of Onate after a battle where hundreds were killed and survivors enslaved. (Reporting By Andrew Hay; Editing by William Mallard) A man is in custody for allegedly shooting and injuring a man at a protest Thursday in Espanola, N.M., authorities said. Local authorities planned to relocate a controversial statue of Spanish conquistador Juan de Onate when a protest formed. A struggle between activists against the installation broke out when a man, allegedly wearing a MAGA hat, attempted to stand on the pedestal intended for the statue placement, the Albuquerque Journal reported. Onate, who arrived in present-day New Mexico in 1598, is celebrated as a cultural father figure in Upper Rio Grande communities, but to Native Americans, Onate is known for having ordered the right feet cut off of 24 tribal workers in captivity, The Associated Press reported. In 1998, someone sawed off the right foot of the Onate statue, AP reported. A man, who identified himself as Native American to a reporter prior to the incident, was shot during the exchange and was taken to the hospital in an ambulance. The alleged shooter drove away in a white Tesla before later being arrested, the Journal reported. A Rio Arriba County sheriffs spokesperson said the victim was shot in the chest or stomach and was in stable condition. This is the second time a shooting has happened at a protest rally for the Onate statue. In June 2020, Steven Ray Baca shot Scott Williams during a rally to remove the statue at Old Town in Albuquerque. Protestors wrapped a chain around the statue, attempting to tear it down. A group of armed men, some reportedly part of an armed militia, gathered to protect it. Local authorities have not released the name of the victim or the Thursday shooter. The Journal reported that prior to the incident, the shooter identified himself to a reporter as Ryan Martinez. Rio Arriba County Sheriff Billy Merrifield is expected to hold a press conference on the details of the shooting at 4 p.m. MDT. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Miami International University of Art & Design, along with its Tampa branch and six other Art Institute campuses, will shutter its doors, effective Saturday, leaving nearly 2,000 students and faculty members displaced and scrambling. The Miami campus, 1501 Biscayne Blvd. in the former Omni mall site, and its Tampa branch are two of eight Art Institute schools. The other six campuses are in Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio in Texas, and Virginia Beach. The Art Institutes consisted of a private, for-profit system of art schools, offering programs at the certificate, associate, bachelor and masters levels. As of 2012, there were approximately 50 campuses nationwide, according to Inside Higher Ed. The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale, which closed in 2018, included among its alumni Venus Williams. A 2021 document on the Miami universitys website lists the approximate total cost for a bachelors degree at $103,500 over 12 quarters. The schools graduation rate is 33%, according to the College Board. The schools gave students seven days notice of the closure. In total, 1,700 students will be affected, according to The New York Times. The websites for both Florida-based campuses redirect to a page with information about the closing, including instructions for transcript and diploma requests. Students are encouraged to complete their education elsewhere, although a transfer of academic credits to a new institution is not guaranteed. The site also links to a Department of Education page titled Has Your School Closed? Heres What to Do. The eight Art Institute campuses will join the 58 schools already listed on the DOEs page, including South Floridas Dade Medical College and Argosy University, a branch of The Art Institute that had a campus in California. READ MORE: A for-profit empire, Dade Medical College, tumbles down The Miami campus was hosting virtual open houses as recently as July of this year. Students took to TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) to voice frustrations with the abrupt closures. When I thought things couldnt get worse, my dream fashion school sent an email about an hour ago telling us theyre permanently closing in 7 days, a Miami International University freshman, Ana Beatriz Bau, posted in a TikTok video Friday. I just finished my first quarter. What am I supposed to do? Neither The Art Institutes nor the Miami campus could be reached for comment. In a 2022 note to students, the universitys president, Leslie Baughman, wrote, we ask that you dedicate yourself to the University and your studies and assume responsibility by involving yourself in all that we have to offer. You have a unique opportunity to learn from experts in the field in a hands-on environment while cultivating professional contacts and lifelong friendships. A Miami International University of Art & Design classroom. The for-profit university is abruptly shutting down on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023, leaving students scrambling. Photo courtesy of Ana Beatriz Bau, a freshman at the school. The timing was difficult The closing also devastated faculty. Judith King has been a member of the visual arts department faculty at the Miami school since 2006. She learned of her employers closure, along with students and fellow faculty members, via email on Friday. Of course, the first reaction was shock and surprise, she said. King is on a WhatsApp group chat with students who have been exchanging messages since the announcement. The initial reaction was not bitterness but rather an acknowledgment of how positive their experiences have been up until this point. The main concern of faculty right now, she said, is the students. The semester ended Friday. Many other universities have already started their new semesters, making it more challenging for those at Miami International University to transfer. The timing was difficult, King said. Bau, the Miami International University freshman who spoke out via TikTok, also criticized the timing. She was just finishing her first semester studying fashion merchandising when she learned of the closing. Its a little bit sad because it was very fast and they just sent us an email, she said in an interview with the Miami Herald. We were very confused. When I was talking to my friends as soon as I got the email everyone was like What are we supposed to do? Whats next? That kind of gave me a little bit of uncertainty with art school. Bau wishes the university had delivered the news to students in person and had shared why they were closing. She noted that applications for most other schools have closed for the fall semester. Now, she said, shell have to wait until January to enroll in a new school. It makes me feel very anxious I had this whole thing planned and it was working out so far. It was just so sudden. No one prepared me for that. Bau is particularly concerned about her friends who are international students whose visas are dependent on their status as students. She is speaking out to support her peers. Faculty, too, are working behind the scenes to assist students. Theres a number of faculty that are actively working on connecting them with other schools and finding them other opportunities, said King, the professor. She described this movement as a grassroots effort. In the meantime, professors are also struggling to find new opportunities. For a lot of faculty it will be pretty crucial to find something fairly quickly, King said. And yet, King described her overall experience at the school as incredible. From my point of view, I have never worked with a better bunch than the teachers and administration here in Miami, she said. And the students were as outstanding as I can possibly imagine students to be. Really, really talented and exceptional in that they were doing what they loved. And hopefully, she went on, they will be able to continue. A troubled history The Art Institutes were formerly operated by Education Management Corp, which agreed to a $95.5 million settlement with the U.S. Justice Department in 2015, in response to multiple lawsuits alleging it broke federal law in how it paid its recruiters. The Dream Center Education Holdings later acquired the Art Institutes and was eventually sued over claims that it misled students on the institutes accreditation, according to reporting from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. In 2012, the system of schools saw enrollment drop by about 16%, according to the Post-Gazette. In 2015, 15 Art Institute locations were shuttered. The Miami campus initially opened in 1965 as the International Fine Arts College, which was accredited in 1979 to award associate degrees and, eventually, baccalaureate degrees. The name was officially changed to Miami International University in 2002, and a second campus was ultimately opened in Tampa. In 2016, the university also acquired The Art Institute of Dallas. According to its mission statement, Miami International University of Art & Design is a multi-campus institution that focuses on the applied arts and design industries. The school has a 100% acceptance rate and an undergraduate student body of 535 students, according to Niche, a website that provides profiles and ranking of schools and colleges across the country. The Florida campuses are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, and masters degrees. King, the visual arts professor, noted how important it is to make sure students are placed in accredited universities. She said shes spending the day supporting students and writing recommendation letters to aid in their transfers. And I cant think of a better way to spend the day, she said. Ten days after being designated the future speaker of the Florida House, Republican state Rep. Daniel Perez gathered politicians, judges, government administrators and more at the University of Miami on Thursday to share a mission and a message. Perez, who is in line to become one of the most important lawmakers in the state following next years elections, told the crowd that he wouldnt be a parochial House Speaker. But he said he would lean on the lessons from his Miami upbringing and on the community where he was raised to help address Floridas most pressing challenges. There are 66 other counties; its not just Miami-Dade, Perez, 36, said from a stage at the Donna E. Shalala Student Center. But that being said, I want us to discuss the issues that are important to the whole state, from the point of view of a guy from Westchester. Thats how Perez kicked off the Floridas Future Conference, a gathering that Perez pulled together, he said, to help set priorities for next years legislative session and the agenda for his two years as speaker, which begins in November of 2024. These are things that we can discuss in any county that you visit, but today is our time here in South Florida for us to be heard and for us to begin to have those discussions, he said. The conference, which according to an invitation was sponsored by the Ohana Institute Foundation, a private school in the Florida Panhandle, featured panels on education, the justice system, commerce and housing. Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava speaks during state Rep. Daniel Perezs Floridas Future Conference at the University of Miami Shalala Student Center. Perez is Floridas incoming House Speaker. During the education panel the Florida commissioner of education, Manny Diaz Jr., said the state needs to reinvent its higher-education programs to train teachers, since a majority of our teachers arent coming [to the profession] from education programs. During the panel on the issue of justice, Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez-Rundle, 11th Judicial Circuit Chief Judge Nushin Sayfie and Florida International University Police Chief Alexander Casas spoke about needing more money from the Florida Legislature to help them stay current with new technology and, in the case of the state attorneys office, retain employees. Perez, who since 2017 has represented Florida House District 116, which includes Sweetwater, parts of West Miami and South Miami, struck a bipartisan tone when kicking off the event, prioritizing policies over politics. I am a Republican, but this is not about being a Republican, he said prior to inviting Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, a Democrat, to the stage. It can matter when the conference ends, but leave all of that at the door. We have to find the solutions and we have to do it as one community and that community to me is and always will be Miami-Dade County. Levine Cava said she expected Perez to be a collaborator. He is going to be for the whole state, but he is never going to forget from whence he came and the issues that are so important to all of us said Levine Cava. Daniel Perez, Florida Speaker Designate speaks to attendees during Floridas Future Conference at the University of Miami Shalala Student Center 1330 Miller Dr. Rep. Karen Whitsett(D-MI) speaks as US President Donald Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, and members of the Coronavirus Task Force listen during a meeting with patients who have recovered from the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, in the Cabinet Room of the White House in Washington, DC on April 14, 2020. - President Donald Trump's plan to reopen the post-pandemic US economy, starting with the unveiling of a new task force Tuesday, was mired in controversy after he was accused of seeking king-like powers. Facing a tough reelection in November, the Republican president is eager to get the world's biggest economy back on its feet as quickly as possible. (Photo by MANDEL NGAN / AFP) (Photo by MANDEL NGAN/AFP via Getty Images) Michigan state Rep. Karen Whitsett (D) recently (and annoyingly) voted against multiple bills that sought to repeal abortion regulations in the state, thereby joining a troubling trend of supposedly pro-choice politicians looking to curb legislative gains in abortion access. Whitsett, who represents areas of Detroit and Dearborn, voted against the Reproductive Health Act (an 11-bill package) in committee last week, wielding her one vote to potentially upend a major Democratic priority after a decade of Republican rule. Currently, in Michigan, abortion is legal until viability, but that doesnt mean later-in-pregnancy abortion is accessible in the state. Theres a 24-hour waiting period, necessitating at least two appointments for patients; private insurance and state Medicaid dollars are largely banned from paying for the procedure; and for those under 18, you either need parental permission or to obtain judicial bypass through the courts. Read more Allow universities to make referrals to abortion clinics for students Allow state Medicaid funds to pay for abortion care One of Whitsetts sticking points is the repealing of the states 24-hour waiting period before an abortion, with Whitsett telling Axios Detroit that she herself has gone through the waiting period. To attack me? Someone whos actually been through the 24-hour waiting process to receive the procedure Im the person preventing this? the state representative said. I just need to know why they feel like that safeguard should be repealed. Whitsett elaborated on her no vote to Catholic News Agency on Tuesday. She sees waiting periods as a way to root out coercion. I dont see anything wrong with being asked if you are being coerced into a termination, Whitsett told the conservative outlet. Abortion-right advocates find Whitsetts opposition surprising. One politician could stop this critical legislation from moving forward, said Paula Thornton Greear, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan President & CEO, during a press call on Monday. Those who dont follow Michigan politics closely might remember Whitsett because she was one of a number of people who met with then-President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence over covid in 2020. She thanked the then-president for saving her life through hydroxychloroquine, a drug touted by conservatives for allegedly healing covid. It didnt. While the Democrats won a majority in Michigan, its a slim one. Frankly, even calling it slim downplays how important it is to have a united caucus if Democrats want to pass anything. With a 56-54 majority, every vote counts. After Michigan voters voted to put abortion rights in the state constitution in 2022, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) specifically named abortion reforms a policy priority. Slaying our zombie laws was great, but there are still other bad laws that put politically motivated, medically unnecessary restrictions on abortion, Whitmer said in an August speech. This forces patients to drive hundreds of miles for care or mandate that they receive biased, inaccurate information about their health. Medicaid costs are another concern cited by Whitsett. She noted one analysis found state Medicaid costs could balloon from $2 million to $6 million annually. Are there going to be abortion clinics on every corner? Whitsett told Axios Detroit. Whitsett has previously told Michigan Bridge, a nonpartisan, nonprofit news outlet, that yes, she voted for the change to the constitution to enshrine the right to abortion. Theyre just things that we need to have conversations about, Whitsett said last week. I have a responsibility to people. This cant be undone once this happens. We need to make sure we get it right. This cant be undone as if people dont pass anti-abortion laws every year, but sure. More from Jezebel Sign up for Jezebel's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. JUAREZ, Mexico (Border Report) The large crowds of asylum-seekers waiting to enter the U.S. by Gate 36 of the border wall in El Paso are gone. The few single adults and family units that approached the Rio Grande on Wednesday were met by a freshly dug 4-foot-deep trench on the Mexican side and an increased presence of Texas National Guard troops on the U.S. side. You cannot cross here. It is illegal. This is a crime. You are committing a crime. You cannot cross anywhere except a legal port of entry, shouted an unidentified Texas National Guard official at a small group of migrants who waded across the river from Juarez, Mexico. Most of the migrants stayed in the water, pleading with the soldiers to let them in. One tried to lift barbwire along the U.S. levee, but two soldiers quickly placed additional razor wire in front of him. A few of the migrants swam back with their belongings. As migrants overwhelm a Texas border city, others wait in Mexico for appointments to enter the US This is unfair. We have been here (in Mexico) more than a month and (U.S. Customs and Border Protection) has not approved a date for an interview. We cannot wait any longer, said Diego, one of the migrants who swam back. He planned to take a break, catch his breath and then try to cross into the U.S. farther downstream where no soldiers were present. After a lull, asylum-seekers adapt to US immigration changes and again overwhelm border agents On the Mexican side, Juarez police were patrolling the levee with marked trucks and all-terrain vehicles. About 200 miles to the south, Mexican federal and Chihuahua state officers are getting migrants off the top of cargo trains and checking for visitors visas. The stepped-up enforcement on this stretch of U.S.-Mexico border comes days after the mayor of El Paso said the region was at a breaking point due to the massive number of migrants being released from CBP custody. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott responded by ordering the deployment of additional National Guard troops to the border and availing buses to take migrants out of El Paso and Eagle Pass. President Bidens continued refusal to secure our border invites thousands of illegal crossings into Texas and our nation each day, Abbott said last week. Texas communities like Eagle Pass and El Paso should not have to shoulder the unprecedented surge of illegal immigration caused by President Bidens reckless open border policies. As more migrant buses arrive, Gov. Abbott visits New York City to talk border policy And while the crowds may be gone from the border wall in El Paso, the migrants as well as some local government officials say many more are on the way. U.S. Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens told us not to even think about it, that the numbers are not going to drop, El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego said on Tuesday. He told us he will support us and also that the numbers will go up. What they are seeing is the increase in people crossing from Colombia to the (Darian) gap. Samaniego said the migrants have made a tremendous financial and emotional commitment that they are unlikely to turn back. Theyre not going to go back to Colombia, they are going to come through all the way. Those numbers are increasingly very rapidly, he said. Visit the BorderReport.com homepage for the latest exclusive stories and breaking news about issues along the U.S.-Mexico border Venezuelan migrant Diego, who came to Juarez on top of a train, said he was heartened by some of his relatives being allowed into El Paso and released from CBP custody a few days later. He said that is one of the reasons why he decided to attempt his crossing now and said many other of his countrymen are on the way from southern Mexico after hearing those stories. It is a matter of luck, said Venezuelan asylum-seeker Adriana Urena. We have been here for a month, and I have a cousin who crossed the Darien (gap). We were waiting for a (CBP One app) appointment but thats not an option anymore. Many people dont have the resources to continue waiting. Urena said she was not expecting hostility from the soldiers. On Wednesday, she decided to wait in Juarez another day. She has no plans to return to Venezuela. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. By Brian Snyder and Daniel Becerril EAGLE PASS, Texas/PIEDRAS NEGRAS, Mexico (Reuters) -For the past several days large groups of migrants, mostly from Venezuela, have been wading across the Rio Grande river near a railroad bridge in Eagle Pass, Texas, undeterred by coils of razor wire laid along the banks. Reuters witnessed migrants crossing, sometimes dozens at a time and at times with small children, navigating strong currents to then make their way through the sharp wire put up by the Texas national guard. Once on U.S. soil they waited in the hot sun to turn themselves in to U.S. border officials for processing. Under a new rule put in place in May by the administration of President Joe Biden , migrants who have not sought an appointment to cross at a legal port of entry on a government-run cellphone app known as CBP One can face a higher bar to asylum and potentially swift deportation. Migrant numbers had initially plummeted after the announcement, but in recent weeks began rising again as thousands of migrants - many fleeing Venezuela - making their way through south and central America began arriving at the border. The upswing in arrivals has generated a new wave of political attacks on Biden, who is running for re-election next year. Former President Donald Trump, who made hardline immigration policy central to his term in office, is leading in Republican polls as a likely challenger to Biden in 2024. Texas Republican Governor Greg Abbott has repeatedly blasted Biden, a Democrat, for not doing enough to curb illegal immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border, with numbers of migrant crossings on pace to approach record highs in September. Texas authorities placed massive floating buoys in the middle of the Rio Grande in an attempt to deter migrants, but earlier this month a U.S. federal judge ordered the state to remove them to the embankment. Texas is appealing the ruling. Abbott says small border towns have been overwhelmed and criticized Border Patrol agents on social media on Sept. 20 for cutting down wire installed by the state. "The concertina wire and other structures that have been placed along the border are to deter these dangerous and illegal crossings," Texas Department of Public Safety Press Secretary Ericka Miller said. A spokesman for U.S. Customs and Border Protection noted that once migrants cross the river they are on U.S. soil. The Border Patrol has the right to remove or alter obstacles in order to be able to safely take migrants into custody, the agency has said. "If they start getting swept away by the currents, if they start succumbing to the environment, the extreme temperatures, the humidity you all feel right now, and my men and women see that, they are not going to let somebody die or get into harm's way," Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens said in a statement to reporters in Eagle Pass on Tuesday. Earlier this month nine migrants died as they were trying to cross the river into Eagle Pass. Neither the physical barriers put up by Texas nor the Biden administration message that crossing illegally could have tougher immigration consequences have apparently deterred the hundreds of migrants crossing into Eagle Pass from the Mexican border city of Piedras Negras. Many arrive following a long journey on top of cargo trains. The arrival of groups of migrants throughout the week also comes despite efforts by Mexican authorities to stop them from traveling north across the country. The Department of Homeland Security did not respond to requests for comments on the crossings in Eagle Pass. Mexican immigration officials did not respond to a request for comment. "We want a better future for our families," Venezuelan migrant Johendry Chourio said on Thursday after arriving in Piedras Negras by train. "We want to get ahead and we're eager to work." (Reporting by Brian Snyder in Eagle Pass and Daniel Becerril in Piedras Negras; Additional reporting by Laura Gottesdiener in Monterrey and Mica Rosenberg in New York; Writing by Mica Rosenberg; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien) A pivotal election is underway in Durham, with voters choosing a new mayor and filling three City Council seats this fall. Eight people are competing for mayor. Early voting in the primary runs through Oct. 7 and Primary Day is Oct. 10. The top two mayoral candidates will proceed to the general election in November, and the winner will have a two-year term. We collected questions from residents across Durham to help readers get to know the candidates. Mike Woodard Name: Mike Woodard Age: 64 Occupation: Senator, NC General Assembly Website: mikewoodard.com Are we paying people competitively and keeping our promises to our workers? - East Durham resident Aidil Ortiz No. My top priority as mayor will be to thoroughly review the administrations proposed pay plan and review other relevant salary and benefit data, and then implement a competitive and equitable system of compensation that keeps the citys promises to its workers and provides the city a necessary tool for attracting and retaining top talent. Do you have any experience that helps you understand development in Durham? How do you plan to get more affordable units in the city? - Planning commissioner Zuri Williams I served on the City Council for seven years and was a member of the Joint City-County Planning Committee all seven years. As chair of JCCPC, I convened two important task forces that proposed significant changes to the Unified Development Ordinance. During my service in the state Senate, I have served on the Agriculture-Environment and Transportation committees, where most proposed land-use legislation is reviewed and revised before full Senate consideration. Market forces are driving housing supply. However, the city can work in a broad-based coalition to provide more affordable options. Ive worked actively to remove barriers that have limited those options, like accessory dwelling units, density, and workforce housing. We should focus on workforce housing for working residents such as firefighters, law enforcement, teachers, other government employees, and other middle-income families. I will work with my Council colleagues, city departments, nonprofit agencies, and the private sector to continue developing ways to protect Durham from gentrification that drives people from their homes. One strategy is helping current residents repair and renovate their homes so they can stay in place and maintain value, especially our senior and our long-time residents. Another strategy should be to continue increasing density in our urban neighborhoods so potential homeowners will be closer to services and amenities they desire. Because inclusionary zoning is not allowed under North Carolina law, local governments have limited tools in including affordable/workforce housing in the zoning process. However, the Council has done a good job requesting support for affordable housing from developers. I would work to continue these requests. This year there was an effort in the General Assembly to develop a statute to offer local governments the ability to create workforce housing more easily. The proposal had flaws, and I worked hard to stop it without more work. I convened a working group to develop a better proposal, and I hope to continue working with that group after I leave the Senate. This idea has promise. As Durham grows more dense, how do we get away from the classic American model of car-oriented development? Are there any policies that you support that can keep us from becoming another Atlanta or Dallas? - Downtown resident Nirav Patel To support more dense development, the City will need policies for: Transportation We must have a public transit system that remains free to riders, is more accessible to all residents, and connects riders to the jobs and services they need. Businesses and Services In the denser urban neighborhoods, the City must work with broad range of stakeholders to ensure that necessary businesses and services are nearby: grocery stores, pharmacies and medical offices, recreation, and many others. Durham has had some success in this effort, but still has a lot more to do to be successful. What policies do you support for implementing safer streets and reducing car dependency locally and regionally? - Stadium Heights resident Nick Roberts Durham has pursued many safer streets projects, and the number of those has increased in recent years. I would continue to support implementation of additional improvements, particularly in our lower-wealth neighborhoods. I am also interested in pursuing the citys ability to offer new infrastructure bonds for sidewalks and other pedestrian amenities, along with traffic calming methods. What will you do to support the mental health needs of everyday Durham residents, especially thousands of young people in our public school systems? - Hillside High School senior Isaiah Palmer While most of the governmental authority and responsibility for behavioral health rests with county and state agencies, the city can assist with this critical public health issue and actually has. One concern the city is addressing is responding with safe, non-threatening care when residents are in crisis. The citys HEART program is a good start to providing that care, and I support expanding HEART to more neighborhoods and with an increased schedule. Additionally, the city has provided and partnered on various wrap-around services. Another space where the City can play a role is assisting in providing safe and sustainable housing options for residents facing behavioral health challenges. In your vision for the city, what role does public education play and how does that connect to economic development, public safety and community health? - Fayetteville Street corridor resident Erika Wilkins Public education at all levels from pre-K through college/university to adult and career retraining is essential to an economically viable and healthy community. Employers are attracted to North Carolina and Durham because of our strong, varied educational offerings. Bringing these good jobs and preparing our residents for them means Durham people can secure good-paying jobs with future opportunities. On the subject of alleged Clean Water Act violations in Falls Lake and its tributaries: How did we get here and who should be held responsible? Who is going to pay for the creek restoration and environmental damage? - Southeast Durham resident Pam Andrews The allegations of Clean Water Act violations will be litigated, and both the facts and damages will be determined by a court. It is clear that the extraordinarily high levels of sediment and turbidity are the result of the rapid increase in development in southeast Durham County. If the court determines that the developers failed to take adequate measures to mitigate run off, then the developers should be responsible for the cost of creek restoration and other damages. How have you seen Durham evolve in your time here, and whats one thing youll have the power to change if elected? - The News & Observer This is nearly impossible to answer in 100 words or less, so Ill mention the sheer growth in Durham. In just 10 years, Durham has grown from the 83rd largest city in the country to the 71st. At this pace, we are likely to move into the top 50 over the next decade. This presents Durham with both great opportunities and significant challenges. How our elected officials local, state, and federal address continued growth is the critical issue we face. An elected City Council member or mayor really has no power to change things singularly. Their influence lies in their ability to work together as a team among themselves, with the citys administration, with other elected officials, and, most importantly, the residents they represent. To find polling places and full details on voting, visit the Board of Elections at dcovotes.com or 919-560-0700. The quest to honor an Oro Grande Army hero's memory continues in the High Desert. Nearly five years after a Purple Heart that belonged to Army Lt. Manuel Rodriguez was delivered to the Victor Valley Museum for display, another group of medals has arrived there. Holding a flag display case filled with his uncles medals, Air Force veteran David Carrasco, 83, wept as he laid eyes on his uncles Purple Heart affixed to the wall inside the Military in the Mojave display room. The Apple Valley museum is operated by the County of San Bernardino. Air Force veteran David Carrasco, 83, with the Purple Heart that belonged to his late uncle, Army Lt. Manuel P. Rodriguez, who died during the WWII Battle of Bataan in the Philippines. When I saw my uncles Purple Heart for the first time, I thought of how he sacrificed his life in World War II, during the Battle of Bataan in the Philippines, Carrasco said. I hope the medals that I brought will sit alongside his Purple Heart. Over the last 17 years, Rodriguezs medals have their way to Carrasco through veteran organizations and individuals from across the U.S. Left to right, Laszlo and Julia Logacz, Mohave Historical Society member Joe Manners and Air Force veteran David Carrasco pay tribute to the late WWII Army Lt. Manuel P. Rodriguez at the Victor Valley Museum in Apple Valley. Stand as a tribute Carrascos wish is for his uncles medals to stand as a tribute to his uncle Manuel for many generations to come. I want people to come to this museum, to look at the medals and know that Army Lt. Manuel P. Rodriguez proudly served and died for his country, said Carrasco, who traveled with his wife, Margie, from Phoenix to present the medals to museum staff on Sept. 20. The museum exhibit also features Air Force Capt. Joseph McConnell Jr., who lived in Apple Valley. Also attending the medal presentation event were Carrascos sister, Julia Logacz, and her husband, Laszlo, both from Rialto. Mohave Historical Society leadership, including President Marcy Taylor, Director Mike Phillips, Secretary Meera Maheswaran and member Joe Manners were at the presentation. Air Force veteran David Carrasco, 83, delivered a flag display case of medals that belonged to his late uncle, Army Lt. Manuel P. Rodriguez, who died during the WWII Battle of Bataan in the Philippines. Carrasco delivered the medals to the Victor Valley Museum in Apple Valley. During the presentation, Carrasco and Manners shared a bit of history about Rodriguez, and Laszlo Logacz used a "digital" or ceremonial bugle that played Taps. For decades, Manners has been the volunteer caretaker of the historic Oro Grande Cemetery, which includes a memorial plaque that pays tribute to Rodriguez. The Oro Grande Cemetery, one of the oldest cemeteries in the Victor Valley area, was established in the 1890s and received its last internment in the mid-1960s. Ownership was transferred to San Bernardino County in the 1970s. It is designated by the State of California Office of Historic Preservation as a Point of Historic Interest. Army Lt. Manuel Rodriguez Rodriguez was born in Rosenberg, Texas, and spent his youth in Oro Grande before enlisting in the Army, where he joined the 89th Quartermaster Battalion as they fought the Japanese Imperial Army in the Philippians. He had a troubled past before enlisting, according to those who knew him. The plaque at the cemetery, placed there in 1975, reveals how Rodriguez was an incorrigible youth, who was accused of killing a night watchman who worked at the local mineral plant. Kenny Blum put up the memorial plaque along with his stepdad, Albert Padilla, Manners said. Mr. Chacon was the watchman who was killed and Manuel was found innocent when Chacons friend confessed that he killed him. At 20 years old, Rodriguez was killed in action on Jan. 16, 1942. His body remains buried overseas. After the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, they invaded Luzon, Philippines in January 1942. Despite insufficient supplies, American and Filipino troops were able to fight for three months. Eventually, they surrendered to Japanese troops and were forced into the Bataan Death Marchwhere some of the most horrific war crimes were committed by the Japanese. Bataan Death March The Bataan Death March forced 60,000 to 80,000 Filipino and American prisoners of war to march through the Philippines. The route was about 65 miles long and stretched from the peninsula to the railhead inland, according to The National WWII Museum. The Bataan Death March is remembered as a tragedy. The prisoners of war were forced to march through tropical conditions, enduring heat, humidity, and rain without adequate medical care. They suffered from starvation and slept in harsh conditions. The prisoners unable to make it through the march were beaten, killed, and sometimes beheaded. As many as 11,000 of the prisoners of war died on the death march. Rodriguez received the Purple Heart, American Defense Service Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, Philippine Defense Ribbon, Philippine Presidential Unit Citation Badge and Marksmanship Badge. Manners said Rodriguez was a troubled youth from Oro Grande who ended up sacrificing his life for his country. Carrasco admitted that he never knew his uncle existed until his brother, Lupe, told him in 1996. The discovery left him "dumbfounded," he said. The more I read about him, the more I knew that I had to do something, said Carrasco, who did two tours of Vietnam during his 20 years with the Air Force. The more I found out about him, the more emotional I became. The late Army veteran Felix Diaz holds a Purple Heart that was found in the desert near the historic Oro Grande Cemetery in this 2018 photo. The medal belonged to Army Lt. Manuel P. Rodriguez, an Oro Grande resident who died in World War II. Purple Heart In 2018, the late Army veteran Felix Diaz, 83, was given Rodriguezs Purple Heart. Diaz had previously written about Rodriguez in his book "Footprints from the Barrio" and immediately began searching to make sure the Purple Heart ended up in good hands. Id like Rodriguezs Purple Heart to go to a World War II museum in California or somewhere else in the country, Diaz said. That man was a hero who grew up here in Oro Grande and spilled his blood for his country halfway around the world. Former Victor Valley Museum Director Melissa Russo told the Daily Press in 2018 that the museum would gladly receive and display Rodriguezs Purple Heart. The story of Rodriguezs Purple Heart began around 2013 when residents found the medal in the desert field behind the cemetery and brought it to Manners. Manners told the residents to give the medal to Adelanto Veterans of Foreign Wars member and Navy veteran George Salazar, who organized several Memorial Day ceremonies with Diaz at the Oro Grande Cemetery. Salazar framed the Purple Heart and placed it in the Adelanto Veteran of Foreign Wars. When the organization closed, he probably took home the medal for safekeeping until he died around 2016, Manner said. Thats when the Purple Heart ended up with Georges family, Manners said. Salazars daughter and granddaughter gave Diaz the Purple Heart that belonged to Rodriguez, who is also remembered on a plaque on the Philippine island of Luzon. 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: Medals delivered to Victor Valley Museum to honor fallen Army hero The Centre for the Research of Trophy and Prospective Weapons and Military Equipment of the General Staff of the Armed Forces demonstrates the results of the Russian military-industrial attempting to modify Shahed-136 UAVs. Source: Armiainform Quote from the representative of the centre, Captain Andrii Rudyk: "Actually, they are all identical to those that this kamikaze drone had in previous versions. Except for the engine. However, the only thing different with it is the country of origin the capabilities of the MicroPilot UAV Flight Control systems MD550 are the same as those of the previous Mado MD550." Details: The officer says that the method of manufacturing of the hull is one of the few novelties that somewhat distinguish the current version from the old ones. Before the summer of 2023, the centre's military personnel were seeing Shahed-136s with a solid cast hull, while the modification has a composite fuselage. The marking has also changed a different font and series are used now. This may not have been so much for production reasons as political ones, since the Russians apply the marking themselves in both cases. In addition to the hull, the UAVs filler has changed. Previously, printed honeycombs were used, but now it is an entirely dense material similar to polyurethane foam. Rudyk noted that the research by the General Staff Center has shown that the types of filler have no functional difference. The military assumes that such a replacement is meant to reduce the cost of manufacturing the outer shell of UAVs. PHOTO: MILITARY MEDIA CENTER The Russians also resorted to using new servomotors and, as mentioned, new engines. This replacement did not lead to modernising the tactical and technical characteristics of the Shahed-136. "At the first glance, this transformation is cosmetic. However, it may indicate the Russians' desire to establish mass production of this UAV," the officer said. 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! Ukraine's air defense shot down over 30 drones that Russian forces launched overnight on Sept. 28, Natalia Humeniuk, spokesperson of Ukraine's Southern Operational Command, said on air. "The attack was massive, but the work of the air defense was also quite effective - more than 30 drones were destroyed," she reported, adding that the operational situation in the south is tense, as the Russian forces are constantly searching for new attack strategies. According to Humeniuk, on Sept. 28, air defense was operating along the entire southern direction - in Odesa and Mykolaiv oblasts, as well as in central Ukraine. Earlier on the evening of Sept. 27, Russian forces attacked Mykolaiv and Kherson oblasts. Oleksandr Prokudin, governor of Kherson Oblast, wrote on Telegram that there was massive shelling in Kherson Oblast. In the city of Kherson, Russian strikes hit the same buildings several times as firefighters battled fires caused by the first round of shelling, the Ukrainian State Emergency Service reported on Telegram. They then had to return to extinguish the subsequent fires. Read also: ISW: Ukraine appears to marginally advance near Bakhmut Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Outgoing chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley told 60 Minutes this week he will take appropriate measures to protect himself and his family following comments by former President Donald Trump suggesting Milleys actions would warrant execution in times gone by. Trump posted on social media last week alleging that the nations top military adviser colluded with China during the final months of the Trump administration, meriting the extreme punishment. This guy turned out to be a Woke train wreck who, if the Fake News reporting is correct, was actually dealing with China to give them a heads up on the thinking of the President of the United States, Trump wrote in a Sept. 22 post on Truth Social. This is an act so egregious that, in times gone by, the punishment would have been DEATH! A war between China and the United States could have been the result of this treasonous act. Milley, who this week ends his four years as the nations top uniformed military leader, has repeatedly said his calls with his Chinese counterpart were appropriate and within the duties and responsibilities of his job. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Mark Milley is responding to comments by former President Donald Trump suggesting that Milley deserves to be executed for communications the general had with China. https://t.co/gOlcC0rE41 pic.twitter.com/pSgO9mNcEY 60 Minutes (@60Minutes) September 27, 2023 Look, Im a soldier. Ive been faithful and loyal to the Constitution of the United States for 44-and-a-half years, Milley told 60 Minutes. And my family and I have sacrificed greatly for this country. ... As much as these comments are directed at me, its also directed at the institution of the military. ... And the American people can take it to the bank that all of us, every single one of us from private to general were loyal to that Constitution and will never turn our back on it no matter what. Although Trump picked Milley for the Joint Chiefs post, the two have endured a public back-and-forth that first escalated in the wake of a photo-op incident during civil unrest in the summer of 2020, which drew widespread disapproval as one juxtaposing the military with domestic politics. Milley leaves Joint Chiefs with a legacy of controversy, consequence Trump ally Rep. Paul Gosar, R-Ariz., called Milley a traitor and made a similar suggestion about deserving execution for working with Democrats to hurt Trump. Former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper told CNN Monday that there is a legitimate fear that if Trump were reelected as commander-in-chief, those who he has taken issue with, like Milley, could be retaliated against in some form. Ive got adequate safety precautions, Milley told 60 Minutes. I wish those comments had not been made but they were. And well take appropriate measures to ensure my safety and the safety of my family. Retiring Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley said he'll take "appropriate measures" for his and his family's safety after former President Donald Trump attacked him and suggested he was a traitor who deserved the death penalty. In a Truth Social post last week, Trump accused Milley one of his top military officers of going behind his back on China at the end of his administration. Milley will leave his job at the end of the month. "This is an act so egregious that, in times gone by, the punishment would have been DEATH!" Trump wrote. "A war between China and the United States could have been the result of this treasonous act." The allegation was a reference to calls Milley made to his Chinese counterpart assuring him the U.S. had no intentions of launching an attack in 2021. Milley has defended those calls, saying he was fulfilling the duties of his office. Milley responded to Trump's accusations in an interview on "60 Minutes" Wednesday, saying there was nothing treasonous about his calls to his Chinese counterpart. The outgoing Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff has previously defended his actions saying they were part of his job to deescalate the situation and avoid conflict, adding that Trump officials were made aware of the calls. "I've got adequate safety precautions," Milley said this week of potential backlash from Trump's post. "I wish those comments had not been made, but they were. And I'll take appropriate measures to ensure my safety and the safety of my family." Contributing: Ken Tran This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Milley taking safety precautions after Trump post on Truth Social Military assistance to Egypt to the tune of $235 million is in flux after the shakeup of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee chairmanship, with a decision expected within 24 hours. Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.), the newly appointed chairman of the committee, has until the end of the fiscal year which comes this weekend to decide whether to exercise a hold on millions of dollars in military financing for Egypt. The stakes of the decision are high following the indictment of the former chairman of the committee, Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.). who is accused of working to benefit the government of Egypt in exchange for bribes. I should be in a position to evaluate what I have to do by tomorrow, Cardin said during a roundtable briefing with reporters Thursday morning. The Biden administration earlier this month issued a waiver to allow $235 million in military aid to Egypt to proceed, saying U.S. national security interests override human rights concerns in the country. Cardin, as chairman, now has the opportunity to block the $235 million, but he said hes going to speak with staff and try and speak with the administration before making a decision. Im not yet one day old, and I need to have briefings from our staff and give the administration an opportunity to be heard on these issues. I recognize that some of these are a very tight time schedule, Egypt certainly in that category, he said about military assistance. Cardin called his elevation to the chairship an honor but added the circumstances are tragic in how it occurred. Cardin said he would reserve comment on his predecessors charges until after the New Jersey senator addressed the Democratic caucus, which he is expected to do Thursday. Im going to defer substantive answers in regards to Senator Menendez until after hes had a chance to address our caucus this afternoon. At that, after that, I may have some things to say, but until then, Im gonna reserve judgment, he said. Cardin also pointed out that the indictment did not implicate Senate Foreign Relations Committee staff or any other senators on the committee. I have total confidence in the staff of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley is seen following his presentation of the 2024 budget proposal ahead of the county's Committee of the Whole Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, in the Milwaukee County Courthouse. Moving past a time that marked major financial cuts and alarm bells over fiscal cliffs, Milwaukee County's 2024 budget season is all about investments. In a turn of events following the approval of the 0.4% sales tax increase, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley announced his $1.36 billion recommended budget on Thursday that would see a roughly $24 million decrease in the property tax levy to almost $289 million. The levy the total amount collected in property taxes would decrease about 8% below the 2023 level. Per the county's July five-year fiscal forecast, the revised surplus projection at the time the 0.4% sales tax was approved was $31.6 million for 2024. For 2025, the surplus would drop to $2.68 million, and then between 2026 and 2028 switch to a structural deficit, reaching $36.2 million in 2028. "Milwaukee County finds itself in a vastly improved budgetary environment than in the past years," Crowley told the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors. "With this surplus in mind, rather than determining what potential cuts would have been the least harmful, Milwaukee County now has the opportunity to deploy the most beneficial investments for our residents." "While this budget is historic, it does not mean that we can now ignore our fiscal reality. I am not naive. I know we must remain cautiously optimistic," he said. Now, with more fiscal breathing room, Crowley's goal is to tackle the county's capital improvement backlog, as well as investing in criminal justice initiatives, affordable housing, and maintaining transit services. Last year, the county adopted a $1.37 billion budget for the 2023 budget cycle. Milwaukee County Board of Supervisor discussions and public hearings warned of major budget cuts to parks and transit, including its paratransit taxi service. Despite approval to extend funding for the taxi contract, the service was not included in the 2024 budget and ended on Sept. 28. For Rob Henken, president of the nonpartisan Wisconsin Policy Forum, who has been analyzing the county budget since 1998, the turn of events is good news. "It is just a remarkable and almost unfathomable turn of events to see Milwaukee County with a large budget surplus, to be able to strategically invest in 2024," Henken said. "I started analyzing county budgets back in 1998 and I can assure you this is the first time that there has been an opportunity for sizable new investment." Property tax reduction The property tax has been reduced by $24 million. This was due to the use of sales tax instead of property tax to pay for the county's pension obligation bond and the use of reserves to pay off existing debt. The median homeowner with a $172,000 home in the county would see a $101 reduction in their property tax bill for the county. "At a time when inflation is top-of-mind for residents and families, this reduction is a much-needed step in the right direction and will provide relief to folks throughout the community," Crowley said. Investments in countywide services The transit tax levy would see an increase of $16 million. The tax levy would sustain current MCTS routes and prevent the department from hitting a fiscal cliff in 2025, as well as defer the use of the final lump of $13 million of federal relief funds until 2026, instead of 2024. Following major concerns about the safety of riders and bus operators, the proposed budget has a $1.3 million increase to enhance security on transit. The County Executive has proposed an additional allocation of $4 million in tax levy to support more affordable housing project options. About $12 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars will be fully allocated toward affordable housing, including 274 units across seven housing developments. In an effort to invest in resources for Milwaukee County's unsheltered populations, Crowley proposed investing in the county's homeless outreach team and Housing First model with an additional $1.5 million. The budget has also allocated $200,000 for housing vouchers for individuals released from the Community Reintegration Center formerly known as the House of Correction. This year's budget also proposed the removal of phone charge commission revenue of $1.9 million from the Community Reintegration Center and the Milwaukee County Jail budget. Families have raised alarm bells about paying $5.1 million per year for calls with loved ones in the Milwaukee County Jail. This budgetary shift will provide 360 free minutes per month for phone calls an increase from the currently allotted 120 minutes and 60 free video visitation minutes per month. The parks department operating budget will increase by $2.6 million. This budget year will aim to add 18 full-time employees to the department, as well as funding for seasonal staff. The proposed budget will increase pre-trial mental health services by $1.6 million. There will be service expansions to the Mental Health Treatment Court, the Veteran's Treatment Court and the GPS service. A proposed $170,000 would be allocated for aging populations, including caregiver services, transportation and senior center programming. The fiscal impact of 0.4% sales tax approval The monumental decision to pass the sales tax legislation is estimated to generate roughly $84 million in new sales tax revenue in 2024. The same state legislation that enabled Milwaukee County to increase its sales tax also produced an increase in shared revenue from the state, amounting to a $7.6 million bump in 2024. This revenue can only be used for the Milwaukee County Employee Retirement System's unfunded pension liability and Pension Obligation Bonds and ultimately freed up property tax levy dollars to be used toward other countywide purposes, such as housing, parks and transportation. Crowley, however, delivered a sobering conclusion: "This is not a cure-all for our financial challenges. We must continue to find fiscally responsible, thoughtful, and innovative solutions to maintain this trajectory and work toward our shared vision for Milwaukee County." Addressing the capital budget backlog The cCapital budget now includes $124 million total funding $47 million of that is bonding, $31 million is cash financing and $46 million from state, federal and other sources. While this is likely to be a one-time or limited-term increase, in addition to the surplus, the county is now able to address such backlogged capital needs as a bus replacement program, the Milwaukee County Zoos Adventure Africa rhino exhibit, the South Shore breakwater, the new County Criminal Courthouse, the modernization of the Oak Leaf Trail and the McKinley Park Flushing Channel. Will the Brewers factor into the budget? The short answer: to be determined. To date, no final decision has been made about the future funding of the Milwaukee Brewers stadium, American Family Field. Rep. Rob Brooks, an Ozaukee County Republican who co-authored the Republicans' $700 million stadium funding bill, told WISN's UpFront he met with Milwaukee officials and expects that the city and county buy-in would drop from $7.5 million annually to $5 million. Will vehicle registration fees increase? No, they will remain at the annual flat fee of $30 for vehicles registered in Milwaukee County. What's the status of the county's federal dollars? Crowley's proposed budget does not include ARPA funding recommendations. ARPA funds have been fully allocated as of the September budget cycle, but there is still the option to reallocate federal funds in 2023 and 2024 prior to a deadline for their use. What's next? The County Board of Supervisor's finance committee will begin discussions about the recommended budget on Oct. 10. The Committee on Finance will host a public hearing at 4 p.m. Oct. 16 at which residents can provide comments regarding the 2024 budget. The County Board will also hold its annual public hearing, which will take place at 6 p.m. Oct. 30. The location has yet to be determined. Contact Vanessa Swales at 414-308-5881 or vswales@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @Vanessa_Swales. THANK YOU: Subscribers' support makes this work possible. Help us share the knowledge by buying a gift subscription. DOWNLOAD THE APP: Get the latest news, sports and more This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: County Exec Crowley's budget turns the page from cuts into investments The Miss USA and Miss Universe organizations have battled a year full of controversy. It all began when contestants claimed Miss USA 2022 was rigged in favor of R'Bonney Gabriel. Here's the full timeline, which included a suspended president and a sexual harassment scandal. When R'Bonney Gabriel won Miss USA 2022 and the contestants didn't rush over to hug and congratulate her onstage, many pageant fans wondered if something was amiss. A day later, the rigging allegations came flooding in and kicked off a chaotic year for the Miss USA and Miss Universe organizations. A president was suspended, a sexual harassment scandal was uncovered, and both organizations' top leaders changed amid all the drama. But on September 29, Miss USA will try to move on with its next winner. Here's everything that happened during the pageant's very controversial year. R'Bonney Gabriel won Miss USA on October 3, 2022. R'Bonney Gabriel after she won Miss USA. Miss USA/Instagram Gabriel a fashion designer from Houston, Texas made history as the first Filipino American to take home the crown. She was also the first Miss Texas to win the competition since Crystle Stewart , who won Miss USA in 1998 and became president of the organization in 2020. On October 4, Miss USA 2022 contestants went public with their claims that the pageant had been rigged. Instagram posts from Miss USA 2022 contestants. Katelyn Vinson/instagram/Heather Nunez/Instagram Contestants from the 2022 class began posting various Instagram stories or TikToks saying they had "never stood a chance," were "heartbroken" about their experience, and felt like they'd been used "as puppets and props." "A lot of the girls felt like it was the organization's plan from the beginning for R'Bonney to win, no matter who else was competing," Miss Missouri Mikala McGhee told Insider at the time. Many of the contestants began posting their allegations after seeing an Instagram video Gabriel made for a Miss USA national sponsor. Gabriel during the 2022 Miss USA pageant in Reno, Nevada. Finesse Levine Insider spoke to many of the 2022 contestants, who pointed to what they said were multiple conflicts of interest between Gabriel and Miss USA's national sponsors including Miss Academy, the pageant school owned by Stewart, as well as the med spa Mia Beaute and the Nizuc Resort in Cancun. The day after Gabriel won Miss USA, a promotional video of her receiving treatments at Mia Beaute's spa at Nizuc was posted on the resort's Instagram page. The 2022 contestants were confused because Miss USA had held a weeklong retreat for their class at the resort in the last week of June 2022, but Gabriel and Miss Colorado Alexis Glover weren't in attendance because they hadn't won their respective state pageants yet. While the video showed Gabriel on a solo trip to the Mexican resort, sources told Insider that Glover was never offered the same opportunity, raising questions about Gabriel having an unfair advantage with the two sponsors. Miss USA contestants told Insider they believed the video was proof that Gabriel was receiving favorable treatment from sponsors and had possibly already been "chosen" to win the Miss USA pageant. It also had contestants questioning why the Miss USA organization allowed Gabriel to work so closely with a major sponsor just weeks before the competition. "After that video was released, it was very evident that something was not right," McGhee said. "That was the first moment I really thought, 'Wow, we just got played. Big time.'" In an interview on October 6, Gabriel defended herself against the rigging allegations. Gabriel said she would have never entered a rigged pageant. Grant Foto "I would never enter any pageant or any competition that I know I would win, I have a lot of integrity," she said during an appearance on "The Rundown." "I want to be transparent," she added. "And I want everybody to know that there was no unfair advantage and nothing was rigged." Gabriel also noted during the interview that she had paid for her own flight to the Nizuc resort and shot the video while she was Miss Texas. On October 8, the Miss Universe Organization launched a third-party investigation and suspended Miss USA president Crystle Stewart. Stewart after she was announced Miss USA 2008. Eric Jamison/AP Images After the Miss Universe Organization held a town hall with the 2022 contestants, CEO Amy Emmerich and president Paula Shugart informed the women that Stewart had been suspended indefinitely. A day before her suspension, Stewart told Insider in a statement that the "fairness of the pageant and the well-being of each and every contestant" was a top priority. "The allegations against the Miss USA Organization are misleading and against everything I stand for personally and professionally," she said. "As a former titleholder, I learned firsthand the importance of a fair and unbiased pageant competition and I respect the voices of the Class of 2022 and every woman's right to have their voice heard." In mid-October, it was revealed that Stewart's husband had been accused of sexual harassment by former Miss USA contestants. Stewart and Sebrechts at the 2019 Miss Universe Pageant on December 8, 2019, in Atlanta. Paras Griffin/Getty Images As Miss USA became headline news, it was revealed that Max Sebrechts had stepped down as vice president of Miss USA after multiple contestants from the 2021 pageant said he sexually harassed them during the competition. One of those contestants was Miss Michigan 2021 Taylor Hale, who went on to win "Big Brother." In a statement sent to Insider in October, a spokesperson for Miss Universe said the organization was made aware of the allegations against Sebrechts in late December 2021 and "immediately requested a review." "The Miss USA franchisee, Miss Brand, removed the employee from its organization in January 2022 and new protocols and processes were established and put in place," they added. Insider obtained a letter that was sent to the 2021 contestants informing them that Sebrechts was stepping down as vice president in January 2022. The letter said Sebrechts was "focusing his efforts on other business ventures" and did not mention the allegations. Sebrechts denied the allegations to Insider. A source close to Stewart confirmed to Insider that she and Sebrechts have since separated. On October 26, it was announced that the Miss Universe Organization had been sold to businesswoman Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip. Anne Jakrajutatip during the Miss Universe Extravaganza in November 2022. LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images Jakrajutatip announced that her Thailand-based company, JKN Global Group, purchased the Miss Universe Organization from IMG for $20 million. She became the first woman to own Miss Universe, the organization confirmed to Insider. Amid all the controversy and change, Gabriel was trying to prepare for Miss Universe. Gabriel at the 2022 Miss Universe pageant. Josh Brasted/Getty Images Gabriel told Insider during an interview in January that the rigging allegations were a "huge distraction." "The hardest part was I felt like I didn't have a voice at times as Miss USA," she said. "I wanted to stand up for myself and say, 'Hey, this is false. This is very frustrating.' But I wanted to compose myself and carry this with grace because I was in the public eye. I wanted to show people how you can push back from adversity and be resilient." While her Miss USA reign was full of difficult moments, Gabriel said she believes it made her "become even stronger." "I was definitely not expecting it, and there were days I felt low," she said. "I felt very delayed in my process a lot of the time, but I had Miss Universe always on my mind." On January 14, Gabriel won Miss Universe. Gabriel told Insider that winning Miss Universe was the "sweetest victory." TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty Images Gabriel was named the winner during the 71st Miss Universe pageant in New Orleans. She was the first American to win the crown in a decade. The pageant queen told Insider that her Miss Universe win was the "sweetest victory," and she hoped it proved that she deserved to win Miss USA as well. "This is a strong message that I want to share with the world," Gabriel said. "No matter if people try to knock you down or there are misconceptions about you, you can't let that get to you, just keep going and you'll get what you deserve." On January 27, Morgan Romano assumed the title of Miss USA 2022. Miss North Carolina Morgan Romano after being crowned the new Miss USA 2022. Morgan Romano/Instagram Romano, a chemical engineer who represented North Carolina, had placed first runner-up at Miss USA 2022. After Gabriel was named Miss Universe, Romano took over the title. Gabriel crowned Romano at a ceremony during the preliminary competition of Miss Alabama USA 2023. On August 1, the Miss Universe Organization announced it had found the rigging allegations were "false" but that Stewart would no longer be president of Miss USA. Stewart and Miss USA parted ways in August. Mike Coppola/WireImage The Miss Universe Organization thanked Stewart and her company, Miss Brand, for "their unwavering cooperation and transparency" throughout the investigation. But, the statement continued, the Miss Universe Organization and Stewart "were unable to reach an agreement as to Crystle and Miss Brand's continuing involvement with Miss USA and the Miss Universe Organization." "Crystle has decided to leverage the success she has had with the Miss USA Organization to pursue other entrepreneurial passions," the statement read. "We wish Crystle, and her team at Miss Brand, all the best and have no doubt that she will excel in this next chapter." Hours later, Laylah Rose was announced as the next Miss USA president. New Miss USA president Laylah Rose. Courtesy of Miss USA Insider sat down with Rose, a fashion designer and CEO of the VIP Pageantry television network, to talk about her new role. She revealed three big changes coming to Miss USA, including a new scoring system. Rose revealed that the interview will now make up 50% of the contestants' total score, while the swimsuit and evening-gown rounds will each be 25%. Rose said the final question will also no longer involve politics. "The final question is going to be really catered to them as an individual. It won't be a political question," Rose said. "I want to highlight them as individuals, and I really want them to shine within themselves and who they are." The new Miss USA will be crowned on September 29 in Reno, Nevada. Miss USA will take place this year in Reno, Nevada. Felipe Espinal/Miss USA The 72nd annual Miss USA pageant will take place at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino. The competition will air live on the CW channel at 8 p.m. ET/PT. Women from all 50 states and the District of Columbia will compete for the iconic crown. This year, the competition will be hosted by E! News hosts Keltie Knight and Adrienne Bailon-Houghton. The Miss USA judges are fashion designer Nicole Miller, actress Vivica A. Fox, makeup artist Patrick Starr, and model and philanthropist Emina Cunmulaj Nazarian. Read the original article on Insider The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Moldova has reported the discovery of missile debris in a lake near the city of Anenii Noi in the southeast of Moldova. Source: European Pravda, citing Moldovas Internal Affairs Ministry Details: The wreckage was discovered on 27 September. The Ministry of Internal Affairs took special measures to protect Lake Harbovat, after missile debris was discovered in it. Currently, people are not allowed to enter this area, and the police are guarding the perimeter. Employees of the National Police, emergency services, carabinieri and border guards are working on the spot. Bomb disposal experts from IGP are also present at the site. They analyse the optimal solution for extracting explosives based on the hypothesis that the component with explosive material will be found at the bottom of the lake. Interior Minister Adrian Efros is also present at the spot. The Ministry of Internal Affairs clarified that there is no danger for the population, the territory is isolated, and the first houses are located at a distance of one kilometre from the dangerous zone. Residents told authorities they spotted some wreckage in a nearby lake that could have come from a missile that may have landed in the area. The authorities have confirmed that this is missile debris, and experts will determine its type and origin. Background: This is not the first time that missile wreckage resulting from Russian strikes on Ukraine has fallen in Moldova. On 25 September, Oleg Belyakov, co-chairman of the Joint Control Commission from the unrecognised state of Transnistria, reported the fall of a missile wreckage on the territory of the separatist region of Moldova in the village of Chitcani after a missile attack on the Odesa Oblast. Parts of Russian drones were also found in Romania. For example, on 13 September, new wreckage, similar to fragments of a drone, was found in Romania's Tulcea border district (county) with Ukraine, this time 14 kilometres from the border. 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! SIMI VALLEY, Calif. - Ron DeSantis finally went after Donald Trump by name during Wednesday's debate, saying he has been "missing in action" in addressing the nation's problems - and in debating his Republican rivals. The dig came after DeSantis attacked President Joe Biden for being "missing in action" when it comes to national leadership. It may have been DeSantis' harshest public criticism of Trump during the campaign. "You know who else is missing in action?" DeSantis said during the debate at the Ronald Reagan library. "Donald Trump is missing in action. He should be here." DeSantis was also echoing former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who at one point attacked Trump's absence from the debate stage by calling him "Donald Duck.". Trump, who skipped the debate because of his big lead in the polls, instead traveled to Michigan to give a jobs speech. Stepping up criticism of Trump DeSantis has generally been low-key about Trump, preferring to "draw contrasts" with the former president on issues and focusing his criticism on all the prosecutions of the front-running candidate. The Florida governor has also fallen farther and farther begin Trump in recent polling. DeSantis has even been reluctant to criticize Trump over the insurrection of Jan. 6, 2021. During the last debate, he only grudgingly agreed to the idea that Vice President Mike Pence did the right thing in resisting Trump efforts to overturn the 2020 election. More: GOP debate live updates: Republican candidates battle over UAW strike, government shutdown This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ron DeSantis says Donald Trump 'missing in action', including debate JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. A busy Wednesday leads the Missouri Supreme Court to hearing arguments on three cases, including one pushing to overturn a St. Louis police bill of rights law. After several hours of hearings, the Missouri Supreme Court did not issue a ruling on any of the cases heard Wednesday. It could potentially take months before a decision is reached. Parkville asks voters to approve local recreational marijuana tax Heres a closer look at what transpired on Wednesday: Kansas City police funding mandate Currently, Kansas City has the only police force in the state governed by a state-appointed board of commissioners. In 2022, Missouri voters adopted a constitutional amendment that asked voters that increase minimum funding for a board-run police force. Following the election, Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas filed an election contest action in this court, challenging the sufficiency and fairness of the constitutional amendments fiscal note summary. Kansas City will build its own jail instead of partnering with Jackson County Lucas alleged Kansas City communicated to the auditor that the amendment would have a negative fiscal impact on the city by imposing additional costs on the city and its residents. On Wednesday, representatives of the Missouri Attorney Generals Office argued that a state law raising the minimum funding Kansas City must provide its police department doesnt impose any cost on the city or violate the state constitution, per the Missouri Independent. St. Louis police bill of rights St. Louis City has filed a lawsuit against the state of Missouri, claiming a bill passed in 2021 means that city police officers are given written notice if theyre being investigated for misconduct. City officials claim that providing advance notice could jeopardize an investigation. On Wednesday, lawyers argued that the process illegally imposes new duties and expenses on local governments, according to the Missouri Independent. In addition to the city, one individual plaintiff (Deputy Director of Public Safety Heather Taylor) is listed on the lawsuit. Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android The citys efforts in the intended litigation for using its own attorneys to represent Ms. Taylor show that they are simply using her as an endurance around this court, Missouri Assistant Attorney General Jason Lewis said. I believe that the allegations in the petition do make clear that she is an individual bringing this suit and there is no allegations in this petition from which she is suing in her official capacity as the city, St. Louis City Attorney Kathleen McGowan said. Ban of sleeping on public land Arguments on Wednesday touched upon the constitutionality of a law passed last year that prohibits people from sleeping, camping or setting up shelter on state-owned land. The bill presents challenges for Missouris homeless communities with state-owned land like public parks, bridges and overpasses off limits. Violations could also mean a Class C misdemeanor of $750 fine. Judge rewrites abortion ballot summary, calls Ashcrofts version problematic Discussions on Wednesday centered around the intent on the bill, particularly trying to determine whether it violates constitutional requirements that legislation have a single subject, clear title, and adhere to its original purpose, according to the Missouri Independent. The way it was reportedly filed, as an amendment pertaining to political subdivisions, is highly contested. It dictates how state funds for the homeless will be used by anyone who receives them, including non-for-profit organizations and private developers and it criminalizes sleeping, camping or building long-term structures on state land without authority, said Adina Rosenbaum, an attorney for the Public Citizen Litigation Group. The law at issue in that case, prohibited anyone that was convicted of a federal felony or misdemeanor from serving in any state office. That would include political subdivisions and the offices held they are in, but it would also include offices outside of political subdivisions, said Ben Stringer, an attorney representing the plaintiffs. View the latest headlines from Kansas City, Missouri, and Kansas at fox4kc.com Political subdivisions are a necessary part of that process, Missouri Assistant Attorney General Clayton Weems said. When it comes to the prohibition of unauthorized sleeping or camping on state land, political subdivisions must not encourage those actives and must not turn a blind eye when those activities occur. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. MANILA, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Philippine authorities on Thursday seized 14.36 kilograms of cocaine at Manila's international airport from two female Singaporeans who allegedly tried to smuggle the illicit drugs. In an initial report, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group said the suspects, aged 63 and 39, arrived from Doha, Qatar. The drugs packed in 341 pieces of pellets inside four cookie cans and two cylindrical chip containers, is worth over 76 million pesos (roughly 1.3 million U.S. dollars), the report added. The items were reportedly detected through the X-ray inspection process. The family of the late Miya Marcano filed a lawsuit against the Orange County Sheriffs Office in Florida on the second anniversary of her death, claiming the department handled her case carelessly. The 19-year-old Black college student went missing on Sept. 24, 2021, and her body was later found on Oct. 2, 2021. The apartment maintenance worker, 27-year-old Armando Manuel Caballero, who had been making unwanted advances on her, was seen entering Marcanos building before her disappearance. He died by suicide on Sept. 27, 2021. The case garnered national attention, though not nearly as much as the case of the September disappearance of Gabby Petito, a 22-year-old white woman who was killed by her partner, Brian Laundrie, during a road trip, which they regularly posted about on social media. Miya Marcano, a student at Valencia College, had been missing for over a week when her body was found. Miya Marcano, a student at Valencia College, had been missing for over a week when her body was found. The most recent lawsuit on Marcanos case was filed on Monday, the anniversary of her death, in the Orange County Ninth Judicial Circuit Court. Her parents claim that the Orange County Sheriffs Office, Deputy Samir Paulino and Corporal Kenneth Dale were deliberately indifferent about Marcanos case, which prevented them from saving her life or finding her body in a timely manner. Michael B. Feiler, another attorney for the Marcano family, told HuffPost that parts of the case are shocking. There were so many opportunities to prevent this tragedy with even the slightest bit of care or competence on the part of the Orange County Sheriffs Office, he added. While we cannot bring Miya back, we can only hope to bring justice to her family and protect other vulnerable victims like her in the future. At the request of Marcanos family, Paulino stopped by the apartment to do a welfare check on Sept. 24, 2021, after Marcano missed her flight to Miami. However, the lawsuit accuses Paulino of not taking action after seeing apparent signs in the apartment that something was wrong and that it appeared that something likely happened to Marcano. Despite there being a blood stain on one of Miyas pillow cases, a bookshelf propped up against the door, preventing entry into Miyas bedroom, several pieces of broken jewelry and a boxcutter on the floor, an opened bedroom window, Miyas favorite Teddy Bear left behind and a bedroom that was in a state of disarray, Deputy Paulino failed to treat the matter as a crime scene despite the obvious warning signs, the complaint says. Paulino also blew [the apartment security guard] off the next day when the guard offered him fingerprints from the scene and emphasized the seriousness of the crime. The lawsuit goes on to say that Paulino told Dale some information about the case, but neither of them relayed extremely critical information to the others in the department before the end of their work days. Sheriff John Mina talks to members of the media about the disappearance of Marcano at the Orange County Sheriff's Office in Orlando, Florida, on Sept. 30, 2021. Sheriff John Mina talks to members of the media about the disappearance of Marcano at the Orange County Sheriff's Office in Orlando, Florida, on Sept. 30, 2021. The family is hoping that by pursuing this lawsuit they can get answers to numerous questions that remain unanswered and real change, Daryl Washington, an attorney for Marcanos family, told HuffPost on Wednesday. Washington also added that Marcanos family believes that other people could have aided Caballero in killing Marcano. Washington previously criticized the departments handling of Marcanos disappearance and death. He compared Marcanos case to that of Gabby Petito, whose disappearance prompted a nationwide manhunt. The Marcano family also filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Marcanos apartment complex and management company later that October which concluded with a confidential settlement earlier this year, local outlet WESH reported in August. The Orange County Sheriffs Office did not immediately respond to HuffPosts request for comment. Related... The Modesto area could get up to 0.25 inches of rain Friday night and Saturday, the National Weather Service said. The forecast comes as California moves toward its main storm season, following the dry and warm stretch from May on. The Modesto Irrigation District has recorded 0.09 inches of rain since the July 1 start of its water year, all on Sept. 9. It gets 12.12 inches in an average year, mostly from November through March. A different calendar is used by the California Department of Water Resources, from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30. That means the current year is about to end one thats had plenty of rain and snow. One measure put the central Sierra Nevada at 161% of average as Thursday. This is based on a composite of rain and snow at five gauging stations. The record of 195% of average was set in the 1982-83 water year. It will stand unless a truly unprecedented storm blows in by Saturday. Thats not likely. The Weather Service forecasts rain in virtually all of the Tuolumne County portion of the watershed. A little snow might fall near Sonora Pass, the summit of Highway 108, but it probably wont stick. Sierra snow provides most of the water for MID and other irrigation districts and cities in the Central Valley. The Modesto forecast calls for highs of 83 on Thursday and 80 on Friday, and then a significant drop to 68 Saturday, 71 Sunday and 75 Monday. Tuesday and Wednesday highs are expected to be back in the 80s The area has a 30% chance of rain after 11 p.m. Friday and 40% on Saturday. Dry conditions are expected Sunday through Wednesday. A body found wrapped in a bed sheet lying in the box culvert of a Florida creek has been identified as a 29-year-old mother, Florida deputies said. On Sept. 24, the body of a young woman was spotted in Calhoun County, according to a news release from the Calhoun County Sheriffs Office. The woman was lying face down under a box culvert in a creek off a small road, deputies said. Her body was also shrouded in a bed sheet covering her head and torso, with her left arm and legs exposed, according to the sheriffs office. State investigators used a tattoo catalog system to identify her as 29-year-old Brittney Jordana Dykes. Dykes was living with Charles Matthew Gable, 35, in Altha, deputies said. Her family told investigators they had been trying to get in contact with Dykes beginning on Sept. 23 after she and Gable had an argument, the sheriffs office said. Dykes 3-year-old son was staying with her former babysitter in Grand Ridge, deputies said. Gable told the babysitter he was coming to drop off some clothes and toys for the boy, and the babysitter called deputies to alert them to his location, according to the release. Gable was taken into custody and denied being involved in Dykes death, deputies said. Investigators then searched his vehicle and phone. Deputies took Gable back home, according to the release, until they received a call from his family the next day. Relatives told investigators Gable reached out to them and confessed to killing Dykes and was threatening to harm himself, according to the sheriffs office. Gable was taken into custody and charged with second-degree murder. A second man, whose relationship to Gable or Dykes was not released, but identified as Christopher Edward Vickery, 36, was charged with accessory after the fact to second-degree murder and taken into custody. Vickery told investigators he did not remember the events of the night due to alcohol-induced insomnia, according to the release. Calhoun County is about 70 miles west of Tallahassee. 21-year-old mom vanishes leaving bar with customer, Texas family says. Want her home Child welfare check turns violent as man opens fire on caseworkers, Nebraska cops say Woman fatally shot through jaw accuses friend in typed note before dying, Texas cops say Man stabs driver who hit his car during crash on busy Florida bridge, cops say Researchers now think they've found an effective and simple treatment that can cure even advanced cases of rabies. Photo by Anke Schroeder/Pixabay Rabies virus is incurable and almost always fatal once it has invaded the central nervous system, with the victim doomed to suffer a horrible death. But researchers now think they've found an effective and simple treatment that can cure even advanced cases of rabies. A monoclonal antibody injected into lab mice successfully protected them from a lethal dose of rabies virus, researchers reported in a World Rabies Day article published online Thursday in EMBO Molecular Medicine. "I would say this is the first practical therapy for rabies," said senior researcher Brian Schaefer, a professor of immunology at Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, Md. The antibody was created using Australian bat lyssavirus, a close cousin of rabies virus. The researchers designed the antibody to block the rabies virus and prevent its spread. "This antibody is specific for the cell surface protein on all those lyssaviruses that enables the lyssavirus to attach to target cells and infect those cells," Schaefer said. Prior efforts to treat advanced rabies have failed because treatments have been unable to pass through the blood-brain barrier, the study authors noted. But this antibody, even though it's too big to slip into the nervous system and treat rabies directly, appears to prime the immune system to effectively fight the virus in the brain and spinal cord, Schaefer said. The researchers were surprised to find that a single dose of the antibody effectively reversed rabies infection even after it had reached the nervous system, preventing death. This antibody appears to spur the immune system to create smaller immune cells that can pass through the blood-brain barrier and into the nervous system, where they effectively target and destroy rabies virus, the findings showed. "It seems like what the antibody is doing is acting in the periphery, acting outside of the brain to change the immune response in such a way that the immune cells that go into the brain are now successfully able to fight the infection," Schaefer said. Low levels of the virus remained in the mice that received the antibody, but those levels didn't increase and signs of rabies did not immediately return, the results showed. The next step would be to create a version of this antibody for humans and to test it in clinical trials, but that's a huge next step, Schaefer said. Rabies virus kills virtually no one in the United States, given Americans' access to immediate therapies that prevent advanced disease, he noted. Rabies does kill about 60,000 people around the world each year, mostly in developing countries, so it's there that clinical trials would have to take place. "Probably the best place for this would be someplace like India where they have a pretty advanced healthcare system, but they also still have a lot of cases of advanced-stage rabies," Schaefer said. "It would take something like a drug company or maybe a government to put a lot of money behind it to actually do the human testing." Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases and preventive medicine at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn., emphasized that these are "early days" for this potential treatment. "Mouse studies are one thing. Studies in people are something else," Schaffner said. "But nonetheless, if you could see me, I would be jumping up and down in my chair a little bit. Because until now, there's really been no reliable treatment for rabies once that infection has become established. Given its success in mice, it certainly deserves further investigation in other animals." This potential cure for advanced rabies is particularly promising because it could be distributed easily to places that need it, Schaffner said. "Monoclonal antibodies can be produced fairly readily now and could be widely distributed around the world," he said. "We could treat those cases, and they're 100% fatal now. Once this disease gets established, there are only a literal handful of cases that have been treated and have survived rabies." The need for therapy is evident, Schaffner said. "If this pans out, it would clearly advance what it is that we could do to mitigate the impact of this terrible disease," he added. More information The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more about rabies. Copyright 2023 HealthDay. All rights reserved. From left, relatives of Sarah Evans and Detroit Deputy Mayor Todd Bettison view 7-foot-tall granite monument commemorating Evans and her friend, Viola Liuzzo on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023 at Viola Liuzzo Park in northwest Detroit. Liuzzo was a white mother who was slain in Alabama while shuttling demonstrators after the 1965 Selma-to-Montgomery voting rights march. (AP Photo/Corey Williams) DETROIT (AP) A monument was unveiled Thursday in Detroit to commemorate a white mother who was slain in Alabama while shuttling demonstrators after the 1965 Selma-to-Montgomery voting rights march, along with the Black friend who helped raise her children following her death. A ceremony was held at Viola Liuzzo Park on the city's northwest side for Liuzzo and Sarah Evans. SISTERS IN LIFE SISTERS IN STRUGGLE is written across the top of the 7-foot laser-etched granite monument that features photo images of Liuzzo and Evans. Liuzzo was a 39-year-old nursing student at Wayne State University in Detroit when she drove alone to Alabama to help the civil rights movement. She was struck in the head March 25, 1965, by shots fired from a passing car. Her Black passenger, 19-year-old Leroy Moton, was wounded. Three Ku Klux Klan members were convicted in Liuzzos death. Liuzzo's murder followed Bloody Sunday, a civil rights march in which protesters were beaten, trampled and tear-gassed by police at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama. On March 7, 1965, marchers were walking from Selma to the state capital, Montgomery, to demand an end to discriminatory practices that robbed Black people of their right to vote. Images of the violence during the first march shocked the U.S. and turned up the pressure to pass the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which helped open voter rolls to millions of Black people in the South. Before leaving Detroit for Alabama, Liuzzo told her husband it was everybody's fight and asked Evans to help care for her five young children during her brief absence, according to script on the monument. Tyrone Green Sr., Evans' grandson, told a small crowd at Thursday's unveiling that the monument is unbelievable. When God put two angels together, can't nothing but something good come out of that, he said of Evans and Liuzzo. They knew what love was. Evans died in 2005. In an apparent reference to efforts in Florida and some other Southern states to restrict how race can be taught in schools and reduce Black voting power, the Rev. Wendell Anthony said that unveiling such a monument would not be acceptable in certain parts of the United States of America today, and that Liuzzo's life would be banned. I'm glad to be in Michigan and Detroit, and if we're not careful, that same mess will slide here, said Anthony, president of the Detroit NAACP branch. That's why what Viola Liuzzo was fighting for the right to vote is so essential. Everybody doesn't get a monument, he added. Your life, your service determines the monument that you will receive. City officials worked with the Viola Liuzzo Park Association, which raised $22,000 to create the monument. The small park was created in the 1970s to honor Liuzzo. The park also features a statue of Liuzzo walking barefoot with shoes in one hand and a Ku Klux Klan hood on the ground behind her. The statue was dedicated in 2019. In 2015, Wayne State honored Liuzzo with an honorary doctor of laws degree. More than 9 million people watched the second Republican presidential primary debate Wednesday, according to Nielsen Media Research data. The prime-time event, which was broadcast on Fox Business and across Fox News Medias linear channels as well as Univision, earned a total of 9.5 million viewers, including 1.8 million in the 25-54 age demographic. That figure is down from the nearly 13 million who watched the first Republican primary debate, which aired on Fox News last month. Former President Trump has not attended the first two Republican primary debates, citing his double-digit lead in most primary polls and what he has described as a hostile relationship with Fox. During Wednesday nights debate, a number of candidates on the stage admonished Trump for not attending, with primary rival and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis saying he owes it to GOP primary voters to participate. Moments after the debate concluded, the Trump campaign called on the Republican National Committee to nix future debate plans and back the former president instead. DeSantis separately during a post-debate interview with Fox host Sean Hannity suggested Trump should debate him one-on-one with Hannity serving as a moderator. The Trump campaign responded in a statement, saying were not as thirsty and desperate like you or sleazeball partner Gavin Newsom. Newsom, Californias Democratic governor, and DeSantis have agreed to participate in a red vs. blue state debate in late November. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. More Americans are concerned about President Bidens cognitive health than former President Trumps, dealing the latest blow to the White House as it seeks to fend off attacks over the presidents age and ability to do the job. A poll from NewsNation/Decision Desk HQ released Thursday found more than half of voters 52.21 percent said they were very concerned about Bidens cognitive health affecting his ability to serve another term, while 38.22 percent said the same for Trump. Additionally, more voters said they were not at all concerned about Trumps cognitive health, at 22.91 percent, compared to Bidens 13.19 percent. Another 22.1 percent said they were somewhat concerned for Bidens cognitive health, just slightly higher than the 20.76 percent who said the same for Trump. Meanwhile, 12.51 percent and 18.12 percent said they are not too concerned with Bidens and Trumps cognitive health, respectively. At 80, Biden is the oldest sitting president in American history. If he wins reelection in 2024, he will be 82 at the time of his second inauguration and 86 at the conclusion of his term. The next-oldest president at the end of his term was former President Reagan, who left office at the age of 77 in January 1989. The poll follows a series of similar findings that indicate continuing concern over the presidents age and ability to carry out the duties of commander in chief. Those worries appear to be growing within the presidents party as well as outside of it. A CNN poll released earlier this month and conducted by SSRS found more than half, or 56 percent, of Democrats and 73 percent of Americans are seriously concerned about Bidens current level of physical and mental competence. Around 60 percent of Democrats said they were concerned about the incumbents ability to win the 2024 election if he clinches the Democratic nomination. A Wall Street Journal poll published earlier this month similarly found 73 percent of Americans and roughly two-thirds of Democrats said the phrase too old to run for president captures Biden at least somewhat well. The president has argued it is fair for voters to discuss his age, but he said they should judge him on his ability to perform the job. Vice President Harris, who is also running on Bidens 2024 reelection ticket, has brushed off concerns over his age while noting she is prepared to be president if necessary. Trump, 77, has pushed back on the idea that Bidens age makes him unfit for the presidency, telling SiriusXMs The Megyn Kelly Show earlier this month that the president is not too old but is grossly incompetent. Trump and Biden remain the front-runners in polling in their parties respective primary races, signaling they could very likely be headed for a rematch in the 2024 general election. If Trump clinches the presidency, he would be well into his 80s by the end of his second term. The NewsNation/ Decision Desk HQ poll surveyed 1,000 registered voters on Sept. 19 and 20. The margin of error was 3.1 percent for the question about Bidens cognitive health and 3 percent for the question about Trumps. 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. People walk on a catwalk at the flooded St. Mark's Square during seasonally high water in Venice ROME (Reuters) - More than a third of Italy's population will be over 65 by 2050, up from about a quarter last year, the country's statistics office ISTAT said on Thursday, offering more evidence of a serious demographic crisis. In a report, ISTAT also estimated that the ratio between people of working age (15-64) and people who are too young or too old to work (0-14 or 65 and above) "will decrease from about three to two in 2022 to about one to one in 2050." A shrinking and ageing population is a major worry for the euro zone's third-largest country, leading to falling economic productivity and higher welfare costs in a country with the highest pension bill in the 38-nation Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). According to ISTAT, Italy's population is set to decline to 54.4 million people by 2050 from 59 million in 2022, when births dropped to a new historic low of under 400,000. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni 's government has made it a priority to tackle the issue since taking power last year, pledging to provide more support to families who want to have children. Meloni also said this month she does not believe that immigration can be a solution to the demographic crisis affecting Italy and the rest of Europe. Italy's school population will shrink by one million in the coming decade because of plunging birth rates and continuing brain drain, Education Minister Giuseppe Valditara said in May, calling it an "alarming" scenario. (Reporting by Antonella Cinelli, editing by Alvise Armellini and Anil D'Silva) Funeral of victims of the fatal fire at a wedding celebration, in Hamdaniya Funeral of victims of the fatal fire at a wedding celebration, in Hamdaniya HAMDANIYA, Iraq (Reuters) - Calls for accountability grew on Thursday for the victims of a deadly fire at an Iraqi wedding celebration in a Christian town as grief-stricken mourners attended a packed memorial service and families buried their loved ones. More than 100 people died and at least 150 were injured on Tuesday evening in an inferno that government officials have said was enabled by a lack of safety and security measures and the use of highly flammable materials in the building. In a sermon interrupted at times by the wails of women clad in black, a priest at Al-Tahira Church in Hamdaniya - also known as Qaraqosh - told mourners that Iraq had been united in grief but criticized officials for "your corruption, your favouritism." "Nothing is up to standard in this country," he said as mourners, some crying, others holding pictures of the deceased, listened on. "We have to hold those who are responsible accountable enough, enough!" Criticism of a lax approach to public safety is common in Iraq, a country where the state has been weakened by recurring conflict since the 2003 U.S. invasion, and where services are impaired by pervasive corruption for which few senior officials are ever held to account. The tragedy has revived memories of deadly fires that swept through two hospitals in Iraq in 2021, killing at least 174 people in all, that were at the time blamed on negligence, lax regulations and corruption. Government officials have announced the arrest of 14 people over Tuesday night's fire, including the owners of the events hall, and promised a swift investigation with results announced within 72 hours. The government has also ordered immediate inspections of large public gathering spaces such as hotels, schools and hospitals. "There is no such thing as destiny in Christianity; this is manmade," said Botrous Kareem, a local resident who lost five cousins in the fire and was on his way to a cemetery to attend more burials. "God has nothing to do with this." (Reporting by Amina Ismail in Mosul and Timour Azhari in Baghdad; Writing by Timour Azhari; Editing by Christina Fincher) In 2021, I quit my job and moved from Delaware to Colorado for a guy. Months after I moved states for him, he broke up with me. It's been over a year since the breakup, and I've learned some valuable lessons. At the end of 2021, I quit my job, packed up my apartment in Delaware, and moved across the country to Boulder, Colorado. My boyfriend had moved to Boulder earlier that year, and I decided to move out west to join him and move in with him. Once I got to Colorado, things didn't quite go how I'd hoped. A few months after I moved, my boyfriend broke up with me. It felt as if my world had shattered. I suddenly found myself in a new state with no partner, no job, no friends, and nowhere to live. When you lose the entire life you know, you get the opportunity to create a whole new one. And I did. It's been a year since the breakup. Here are a few things I've learned. Friends are invaluable When I found myself alone in a new state, I realized how important friendships were. I mean the kinds of friends who will support you, encourage you, adventure with you, and help you get through whatever life brings. I've always had friends, but I've never needed friendship as much as I did after the breakup. I put a ton of energy into making friends, and a year later I have some of the best friends of my life. I've never quite valued friendship as much as I do now, and I'm so thankful for the deep, genuine friendships in my life. Happiness takes effort, but it can be found wherever you live I truly believe you can find happiness wherever you are. I've lived in several states that aren't usually at the top of people's lists, yet I've been happy in all of them. Then, I found myself in Colorado, an objectively desirable place to live. Yet I was anything but happy. Just because you live in a cool place like Colorado doesn't mean you'll instantly be happy. It still takes effort. After the breakup, I made it my personal goal to enjoy Colorado to the fullest and if I still didn't like it after a year, I'd move. I've had to really think about what makes me happy and what to prioritize to create a life that I love. I moved into my own place, attended meetup groups and hosted meetup hikes to make friends, worked on my business so I could support myself, and did activities by myself so I could explore Colorado. After a year, I have no plans of moving anytime soon, and I'm so proud of myself for that. Being single is a gift After the breakup, I was single for the longest period of time since I got my first boyfriend at age 16. Being single is truly a gift. It's allowed me to pour energy into friendships, become more confident on my own, and do a lot of self-reflection. I needed to create my own life and be happy on my own before I could start dating again. You're stronger than you think you are The breakup and the months after were some of the hardest times of my life. I was devastated, and the thought of building a new life in Colorado felt overwhelming. But when you hit rock bottom, there's nowhere to go but up. I realized I was so much stronger than I gave myself credit for. I realized it was OK to take risks and try new things. And if that risk doesn't work out the way you hoped it would if you find yourself in a version of a worst-case scenario you'll find a way to be OK. I don't regret moving to Colorado at all. I've grown so much, and so many good things in my life would have never happened if not for the breakup. Read the original article on Insider DHAKA, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese firm will build a solar power plant in Bangladesh, a Bangladeshi cabinet meeting approved the proposal on Wednesday. The plant would be a joint venture with China's Fujian Yongfu Power Engineering Company Ltd. The joint venture will construct a 70 MW plant in the hilly southeastern Bandarban district at a cost of 24.86 billion taka. Bangladesh's power generation capacity reportedly stands at 23,871 MW. Of the amount, 1,194 MW comes from renewable energy sources. (1 U.S. dollar equals about 110 taka). Ron DeSantis has hinged his struggling presidential campaign on how he successfully passed a battery of ultraconservative laws in Florida. But what he doesnt like to mention is the millions of taxpayer dollars he has wasted as courts repeatedly knock those laws down. The Republican-controlled state legislature has helped DeSantis easily take on some of the rights favorite culture wars. He gutted abortion rights, LGBTQ protections, and academic freedom. He also has been locked in a bizarre legal back-and-forth with Disney for the past year. He has repeatedly held up these accomplishments as signs of success. In reality, DeSantis has spent more than $17 million defending his terrible laws in court since he took office. As a result, the state budget for 2023 includes a $15.8 million allotment just to defend his policies. That allotment includes $6 million for the governors office, compared to just $1.6 million last year. The State University System Board of Governors received an extra $2 million to defend DeSantiss Stop Woke Act, and the attorney generals office got an additional $5 million to defend the states backward Covid-19 vaccination policies. The extra money for legal costs means that DeSantis is able to hire outside (and much more expensive) lawyers to defend his policies. So far, his administration has spent the most defending laws restricting voting rights, transgender health care, and academic freedom. But despite his best efforts, and his hefty coffers, most of those laws were still overturned. DeSantiss administration has already allocated more than $875,000 for lawsuits this year alone. The Florida governors office hired the law firm Holtzman Vogel Baran Torchinsky & Josefiak to defend two laws blocking access to gender-affirming care. The government signed a contract with the firm in April for $400,000 to defend a law banning gender-affirming care for trans minors and restricting it for adults. Under that law, medical facilities could lose their license if they offered health care to trans or nonbinary children. Federal Judge Robert Hinkle temporarily blocked the law in early June, citing multiple doctors who testified against the law that denial of this treatment will cause needless suffering for a substantial number of patients and will increase anxiety, depression, and the risk of suicide. The law is still making its way through the courtsand DeSantis may be forced to spend even more money defending it. DeSantis also signed a contract with Holtzman Vogel for $300,000 to defend the Florida law prohibiting Medicaid from covering gender-affirming care. Hinkle struck down that law as well, ruling that it violated federal policies on Medicaid, equal protection, and the Affordable Care Acts ban on discriminating based on sex. The state of Florida has appealed the ruling. In July, the nonprofit Vote.org sued to block Floridas wet signature law, which requires that voter registration forms be signed with wet ink. This means that people have to either register in person or sign and then mail in their registration, as opposed to registering electronically. Vote.org is arguing that the law violates the Voting Rights Act. A trial date has not yet been set, but DeSantiss administration has signed another contract with Holtzman Vogel in May agreeing to pay the firm $125,000 to defend the law in court. DeSantis developed this habit of burning through taxpayer dollars since he assumed the governors office in 2019. In 2018, the League of Women Voters sued to overturn a statewide ban on early voting locations on college campuses. Then-Governor Rick Scotts administration signed a $150,000 contract in June with the firm Hopping Green & Sams to defend the ban. When DeSantis took office, he extended the contract by two years and agreed to pay Hopping Green an additional $30,000. The lawsuit was settled in 2020 when the secretary of state agreed to allow early voting sites on campuses. But it appears the DeSantis administration has yet to pay the firm the extra fee. These laws, and the many others like them that Republicans are passing across the country, are not actually meant to be good. They arent really even meant to stand up in court. The goal is to stoke culture wars and scapegoat people who dont adhere to strictly conservative lifestyles. The laws are also meant to make DeSantis seem like a warrior for far-right values. Theyre the reason he is able to promise to make America Florida. But the fact is, the laws arent paying off, in every sense of the word. Not only are they costing his state millions, but they also belie the true extent of DeSantiss influence. DeSantis was able to force these laws through because the Republican Party controlled both chambers in the state legislature. Most of his policies are unpopular among voters, and they arent doing much better on the national level. The Florida governor has plummeted in opinion polls in recent months. Once hailed as the natural successor to Donald Trump, DeSantis now trails Trump by a huge margin. In some polls, he ranks even lower than second place. His powerful former backers are deserting him over his inability to appeal to the general public. One billionaire Republican donor, hedge fund CEO Ken Griffin, was DeSantiss biggest donor during the 2022 election, giving $5 million to his gubernatorial reelection campaign. But Griffin has yet to say whether he will back DeSantis for president. I dont know his strategy, Griffin told CNBC a few weeks ago. Its not clear to me what voter base he is intending to appeal to. In particular, DeSantiss bizarre battle with Disney is pointless, Griffin said. It doesnt reflect well on the ethos of Florida. Even DeSantiss own state GOP is starting to rebel against him. A Republican consultant in Tallahassee told Politico that the state party is just waiting for him to drop out. The state Republican Party revoked a DeSantis-backed pledge to endorse whoever the Republican presidential nominee is. Front-runner Donald Trumps supporters have been calling for such a reversal. And at Pasco-Hernando State College, the board of trusteesstacked with DeSantis alliespassed over a DeSantis official for the college president. Republican state Representative Daniel Perez told his colleagues last week to be careful going forward, warning that the problem with wielding the power of government like a hammer is that the people start looking like nails. Perez has denied that he was speaking about DeSantis, but another Tallahassee lobbyist said it was a signal to the governor that the legislature would no longer act as a conveyor belt for whatever laws he wants. So in the end, all of DeSantiss signature laws have come back to bite him. The policies that were supposed to make him look strong have ended up eroding his power and his appeal. ST. PAUL, Minn. A Minneapolis murder suspect is now again behind bars after he was mistakenly released from an Indianapolis jail earlier this month. The Marion County Sheriff's Office in Indiana announced that Kevin Mason was arrested Wednesday in South St. Paul by the U.S. Marshal Service. "I want to extend my thanks to everyone involved in assisting with the arrest. The brave men and women of the USMS District of Minnesota worked diligently and courageously to bring this wanted dangerous fugitive to justice," Eddie M. Frizell, U.S. Marshal for the District of Minnesota, said. The USMS later confirmed with WCCO that the arrest occurred around 1 p.m. on the 900 block of Summit Avenue. There were no incidents or injuries during the arrest. Kevin Mason / Credit: Minneapolis police Mason, 28, was charged with second-degree murder in connection to the fatal shooting of Dontevius Catchings in the Shiloh Temple parking lot in June of 2021. The gunfire broke out during a visitation for a man who died in a shootout in front of a downtown Minneapolis nightclub. Mason was charged by warrant in Hennepin County roughly two months later. Dontevius Catchings / Credit: Catchings family After more than two years on the run, Mason was arrested in Indianapolis on Sept. 11. But he was released two days later due to a mistake made by jailhouse employees. Marion County Sheriff Kerry Forestal said Mason's girlfriend picked up up near the jail. A massive manhunt has been underway ever since - until Wednesday's arrest. "I would like to extend my sincere gratitude and congratulations to the USMS for concluding this manhunt and safely bringing Mason back into custody," Forestal said. "Our federal partners have kept us informed throughout the entire process. We are truly thankful for their assistance and wide resources most specifically, their task force partnerships with local law enforcement agencies that have allowed them to pursue Kevin Mason throughout the country." Mason is not facing charges in Indianapolis. Gen. Milley responds to Trump post accusing general of treason | 60 Minutes North Korea says it will expel Travis King, U.S. soldier who ran across border Arrest warrent issued for suspect in killing of 26-year-old Baltimore tech CEO INDIANAPOLIS A homicide suspect who was accidentally released from an Indianapolis jail two weeks ago was captured Wednesday by the U.S. Marshals Service in Minnesota, authorities said. Kevin Mason, 28, was apprehended by the U.S. Marshals Service in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Wednesday afternoon, according to the Marion County Sheriff's Office. He was arrested in Indianapolis on Sept. 11 and was mistakenly released two days later due to a records-keeping error by clerks with the Marion County Sheriffs Office. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude and congratulations to the USMS for concluding this manhunt and safely bringing Mason back into custody, said Marion County Sheriff Kerry Forestal in a news release. Our federal partners have kept us informed throughout the entire process. We are truly thankful for their assistance and wide resources most specifically, their task force partnerships with local law enforcement agencies that have allowed them to pursue Kevin Mason throughout the country. Task force members assigned to catching Mason arrested him in an east side St. Paul residence, according to a news release. U.S. Marshals and the Dakota County SWAT team executed the search warrant and Mason surrendered to authorities without further incident. Mason was wanted on three Minnesota warrants, including murder in connection with a 2021 shooting in Minneapolis. 'Persistent overcrowding': Fulton County Jail issues spark debate, search for answers Kevin Mason faces charges for 2021 killing Masons arrest in Indianapolis was on three warrants homicide, parole violation, and firearms possession from three different jurisdictions, according to the sheriffs office. He is accused of shooting and killing Dontevius A. Catchings, 29, outside a Minneapolis church after the funeral of a mutual friend in June 2021, according to local news reports at the time. The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reported that Mason and Catchings were "longtime friends, but they got into a fistfight over Mason refusing to return a gun to Catchings." How was Mason mistakenly released? Authorities in Minnesota waived extradition on one warrant, which may have contributed to the Indianapolis release, said Col. James Martin with the sheriff's office. A records clerk thought she was "correcting duplicate bookings" on Sept. 12 and removed two of his holds. The next day another jurisdiction removed its hold. An internal investigation is underway to determine if any policy or procedural violations occurred, but two sheriffs office employees have already been fired. Mason was released the morning of Sept. 13. The sheriffs office said it became aware of his release that same day and authorities determined that he left Indianapolis later in the evening. Martin said officials waited six days before informing the public of Mason's release to use time as a "tactical advantage" in keeping him from running underground. 9 deputies charged in jail death: Inmate in mental health crisis 'brutalized,' lawyer says Last week, the sheriffs office announced that the U.S. Marshals Service would lead the search and offered a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to Masons capture. Mason's girlfriend, Desiree Oliver, 29, was also arrested on charges of assisting a criminal, according to Forestal. Forestal said Oliver had picked Mason up in her car shortly after his release and then obtained a new cellphone before driving to a Walmart where she purchased men's clothing and toiletries. John Tufts covers evening breaking and trending news for the Indianapolis Star. Send him a news tip at JTufts@Gannett.com. Contact Jake Allen at jake.allen@indystar.com. Follow him on Twitter @Jake_Allen19. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Murder suspect accidentally released from Indianapolis jail found Everyone in Balitmores tech scene knew Pava LaPere. When you can be known in a town just by your first name, that says something, one mentor, Delali Dzirasa, told The Daily Beast. Its like Madonna. When you say Pava everyone knew who you were talking about. Everybody loved Pava. Another adviser, Mac Conwell, said the 26-year-old tech CEOs goal was to help as many people as she could, to be a champion for those who were forgotten and not given the chances they deserved. The Johns Hopkins University grad so believed in supporting entrepreneursespecially those from underrepresented communitiesand cheerleading for Charm City that she quickly became a fixture in the field. Her unflagging dedication helped usher in $8 million in funding for her company, EcoMap Technologies. Authorities Search for Armed Suspect in Murder of 30 Under 30 Tech CEO She was full of light. When she was around, you felt her energy, said Dzirasa, founder of Baltimore-based digital services firm Fearless. Now her family and colleagues are grappling with a senseless and unimaginable loss. On Monday, police reportedly discovered LaPeres body on the roof of her apartment building soon after she was reported missing. Police held a press conference the next day announcing a manhunt and arrest warrant for 32-year-old Jason Dean Billingsley, whom they described as armed and dangerous and with a criminal record that included attempted rape. On Wednesday night, authorities announced Billingsleys arrest, which they are set to discuss in more detail later Thursday morning. Every single police officer in Baltimore City, the state of Maryland, as well as the U.S. Marshals, are looking for you, Acting Police Commissioner Richard Worley said in a direct warning to Billingsley, who was released last October. The news of LaPeres death was especially shocking to friends who saw her Friday at Artscape, a three-day art festival in the city. Councilman Mark Conway wrote on Facebook that he met LaPere at the event, where the two geeked out over Anderson .Paak and environmental data. On Saturday, LaPere was unreachable. Karina Mandell told The Daily Beast that friends and family tried to contact LaPerewho this year made a Forbes 30 Under 30 listthroughout the weekend. She is not the kind of person who goes missing. She doesnt just poof and vanish into thin air. Youre always able to get a hold of her, Mandall said. So that was the part that was immediately shocking. On Sunday, Mandall learned the news that her friend had vanished. The next day, she was informed that LaPere had been found dead at her apartment building. She said she had never heard of Billingsleys name before and was shocked to find out that he was connected to LaPeres death. This was an awful, awful crime that should have never happened, Mandall said. It just happened to strike a person who was so committed to the community. Right now, we are all just waiting for answers. Mandall was just one friend who planned to attend a vigil for LaPere on Wednesday night, on the steps of the Washington Monument in Mount Vernon. Baltimore Police Department While loved ones mourn, Baltimore police are releasing more information on Billingsley. Earlier on Wednesday, cops revealed he is wanted in connection with a Sept. 19 attempted murder, arson, and rape that occurred about 20 minutes away from LaPeres murder scene. A $6,000 reward was offered for information leading to his arrest. Multiple warrants have been issued for Billingsley, and detectives continue to work with all of our law enforcement partners in apprehending him, police said in a press release. Additionally, detectives are now reviewing all cases since October 2022, to the present day in order to determine any other connections. Billingsleys mother also spoke out, telling NBC News she urged her son via text message to surrender because she does not want police to shoot him because they think he has a gun. Scarlett Billingsley said that she last saw her son on Monday, when he came over for a few minutes and showed her a gun. She added that she does not know whether Billingsley knew LaPere or how he got into her apartment. The 72-year-old mother added that she does not know where her son is hiding and is sorry for the LaPere family. Im very sorry if he did it, Scarlett Billingsley said. I wont know until I see some evidence if he did it. Where is the truth atshow me some evidence. While LaPeres family has requested privacy as police work to track down Billingsley, her father took to Facebook on Tuesday to share how the tech CEO was an inspiration to so many people. A spokesperson for the family did not immediately respond to The Daily Beasts request for comment. She was driven, creative, hardworking, and relentless in her efforts, with her wonderful team at EcoMap Technologies, Frank LaPere shared online. Pava made an impact in every endeavor she undertook and on every life she touched. She will be forever missed as a daughter, sister, grand-daughter, niece, cousin and loyal friend. Youre right, there are many tech cos who dont give great candidates a second look But youre not right to generalize. Our company is Black & women-owned, 50% not white, 50% female. We do not have education reqs & often hire very smart people without formal degrees pic.twitter.com/MUxOKf05N7 Pava LaPere (@PavaLapere) March 12, 2023 Conwell, the founder of pre-seed fund RareBreed Ventures, said he's known LaPere since she was a college student. They met while he worked at TEDCO, Marylands economic engine for tech firms, and LaPere was launching an intercollegiate entrepreneurship conference. She was a champion for those who were underrepresented, Conwell told The Daily Beast. She was a champion for women, for diversity, for DEI. She truly believes in equity and equitable spaces. And she loved Baltimore; she loved the city, and she loved the community. And the community lost the shining star. Conwell last saw LaPere about a month ago at a get-together of about 15 people in the tech community, which was held at a mutual friends house. He said it was a chance for us to break bread, let our hair down, take a breath from day-to-day rigors. LaPere left early to prepare for the next day of work. But before she did, he offered her some advice. Make sure you're taking care of yourself, Conwell recalls telling her. Entrepreneurships a long journey, it can be lonely. Make sure you're keeping up with your hobbies. Whens the last time you went to a movie? He says LaPere laughed and replied, Im working on that, Mac, but work is what I love to do. And you know, maybe one day when Im a billionaire, Ill be able to help more people and do more things. He described LaPere as the consummate optimist about her company, her life, and the city. Conwell said LaPeres apartment was above her company in the historic Congress Hotel building. She literally woke up, walked downstairs, and was at work, he told us, adding that her work hours were whatever needs to be done whenever it needs to be done. Mandell, who met LaPere in 2018, called the tech founder one of the most passionate people she has ever known. She would wake up at 5:30 in the morning and lived upstairs from her office in the same building, Mandell said. She was passionate and driven, and she was intense. Its like everyone else was going 40 miles an hour, and she was going 70 miles an hour. Like everyones driving a Buick and shes driving a Ferrari because she wanted to go faster, she wanted to see results. LaPeres firm curates data for companies and organizations. She literally built a company to help other people, Conwell said. EcoMap is a company that aggregates resources for local communities, for broader communities, for entrepreneurs, small businesses, or for whatever the community has asked them to aggregate resources for. Dzirasa told The Daily Beast that hed been in touch with LaPere throughout last week, including during a Friday Zoom meeting related to a project they were working on together. When he called her last Monday, she was speaking at an economic development conference. He recalls LaPere telling him about how much of the tech industry was top-down when it needed a bottom-up grassroots approach to economic development. She argued that the good old boys network needed to shift. She was looking to shake this industry up, Dzirasa said. I remember leaving the call, kind of laughing and [thinking], They better watch out. When Pava sets her mind to things, it is going to happen. Slain Tech CEO Was Reportedly Found on Her Apartment Buildings Rooftop Pava was a force, Dzirasa told us, adding, I tell people all the time that Pava was stubborn in all of the amazing founder and entrepreneur ways. The fact that her company is here is a testament of her greatness. Most people are not running a multimillion-dollar company and figuring out how to be a grown-up and CEO at the same time, Dzirasa added. Theres challenges and ups and downs in the startup world, period. But while youre figuring out who you are, its a lot. She did it with a smile. Ive never been around Pava and not gotten a hug and not felt better after our interaction. Dzirasa said LaPere would send him random encouraging emails, and was someone who spoke with confidence but never tore others down. In one recent emailwith the subject line 50/50LaPere told Dzirasa, A while ago, I was on the Fearless website for inspiration, and we saw the 50/50 goal. She was referring to Fearless aiming for a workforce that was half made up of women and half people of color. LaPere wrote that she realized her company had just hit this same target. Thats how the ecosystem shifts, she said. One company inspiring the next. Thanks for leading the way. Shes one of my mentees but shes telling me good job keeping going, being this cheerleader, Dzirasa said. This gives you a little sense of her spirit. I'm trying to write a LinkedIn post about work anniversaries of transformative @EcoMapTech team members and is it normal to be crying because I am totally crying How we were every so lucky to land them I do not know. But I know that we're only here because of them Thanks team. pic.twitter.com/f4gsstDyFs Pava LaPere (@PavaLapere) August 10, 2022 He was in disbelief when he learned she was gone. The whole thing was so sad and pointless, Dzirasa told us. What hurts the most is she was just getting started and already accomplished so much. In a 2019 TEDx talk, LaPere said she originally wanted to become a surgeon, a dream that brought her to Johns Hopkins University. I had my life entirely mapped out, a blueprint for how I was going to make a change in the world, LaPere said on stage. But after watching news coverage of bombings in Syria, she said she was forced to reckon with the fact that despite that we all inhabit the same world, we live in entirely different ones. After some soul searching, the Tucson, Arizona native decided that if she wanted to make change on a large scale, she should go into business. She opted for a computer science degree and befriended a small group of student entrepreneurs. They called their group chat The Crazy Ones, after a poem that was part of an Apple ad campaign. There was no incubator, maker space, or entrepreneur club at the university, so she and fellow students took it upon themselves to build one called TCO Labs. I realized that crawling up the corporate ladder at some big company or selling my soul to the highest bidder on Wall Street was not actually going to make a difference, LaPere said. You see, big business has its hands so tied by profit and politics that it can be nearly impossible to make meaningful change from within those systems. Thats when it hit me. If we wanted to make change in the world, we needed to make more entrepreneurs. LaPere was open about her struggles to juggle straight As, a social life, and her business and spoke of enduring panic attacks and sleep deprivation to pursue her goals. Two photos flashed on a screen during LaPeres presentation, one showing her in a medical bouffant and mask and another wearing a TCO Labs shirt. Instead of leaving Hopkins with a medical school acceptance letter, Im leaving it with three ventures, she said. So dont worry right now if you dont have a plan, and dont worry if you suddenly find that your well-crafted life plan collapses in front of you, LaPere concluded before receiving applause. Survey all of the new opportunities that you have. Slowly connect the dots, and youll find your own way towards making a change. 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. STAUNTON A North Carolina man who was nabbed last year in Augusta County after he reportedly tried to hook up with a teenage girl, and was then found with nude photographs of her, was spared prison time Tuesday following a plea agreement. Jacob D. Bailey, 23, of Spindale, North Carolina, pleaded guilty in Augusta County Circuit Court to one count of possession of child pornography. Although he faces up to five years in prison, the case was taken under advisement and the charge will be dismissed in one year if Bailey stays trouble-free, according to the plea agreement. Augusta County Deputy Commonwealth's Attorney Alexandra Meador said Bailey was 22 years old when he met the young teen online. The two conversed over several social media platforms "for a number of weeks," Meador said. In October 2022, Bailey made the trip up to Augusta County to meet the teenager. When he arrived at her home, Meador said the teen's parents intervened and called the Augusta County Sheriff's Office. When authorities conducted a search of Bailey's phone, Meador said they found nude photos of the girl, resulting in the child porn charge. However, Meador said during their online conversations the teen had told Bailey she was 18 years old. Meador said Bailey believed her despite receiving pictures of her standing at a bus stop, and her speaking about school and her parents. Meador also noted that Bailey, who was found competent to stand trial, was a special education student in high school. The prosecutor said when authorities searched Bailey's phone, there was no evidence he'd been communicating with any other children, just the Augusta County teen. Meador said she spoke to the victim and her family, who said they had no desire to see Bailey go to prison. "We felt it was best to come to this agreement," the prosecutor said. Circuit Judge Paul Dryer said he will review the case in one year, and said if Bailey stays clean the charge will be dismissed next September. "You have a great opportunity to avoid a felony conviction," Dryer told Bailey. Bailey was represented by A. Meredyth Eckel of the Staunton Public Defender's Office. Staunton Council candidate Wilson Fauber stands by 2015 homophobic Facebook post Fort, Wilson golf advance to states; Wilson girls cross country wins The $85,000 question at City Council work session:THE AGENDA Brad Zinn is the cops, courts and breaking news reporter at The News Leader. Have a news tip? Or something that needs investigating? You can email reporter Brad Zinn (he/him) at bzinn@newsleader.com. You can also follow him on Twitter. This article originally appeared on Staunton News Leader: N.C. man caught with nudes of Augusta County teen catches break The president of the self-declared Nagorno-Karabakh Republic, Samvel Shakhramanyan, signed a decree on Sept. 28 dissolving all official institutions of the breakaway state from Jan. 1, 2024, Karabakh authorities announced. The government of the self-declared republic will "cease to exist" as an entity from that day, the decree said. The news came as the latest development in a sudden shift of the situation in the ethnically-Armenian breakaway Nagorno-Karabakh Republic (NKR), recognized internationally as part of Azerbaijan. On Sept. 20, Nagorno-Karabakh authorities capitulated to Azerbaijani forces after a lightning offensive on Sept. 19 left them with no choice but to cease hostilities." Since then, events have moved rapidly, as the Nagorno-Karabakh defense forces agreed to disband and disarm, protests broke out in Yerevan over Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyans refusal to help the breakaway region, and more than 65,00 ethnic Armenians left Nagorno-Karabakh for Armenia. Azerbaijan fought against ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh and forces from the Republic of Armenia from 1988-1994, which ended in an Armenian victory. In 2020, Armenia and Azerbaijan fought a war in which the latter's forces successfully reclaimed a large portion of the territory before a ceasefire was mediated by Moscow, which sent a "peacekeeping" force of several thousand Russian troops to the region. In the following years, tensions did not subside, with Azerbaijan blockading the Lachin corridor, the only road connecting Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh, leading to a humanitarian crisis widely condemned by UN member states and international organizations. The situation culminated in Azerbaijans 24-hour successful offensive on Sept. 19, 2023. Despite the announcement regarding the dissolution of the self-declared Nagorno-Karabakh Republic, a number of diplomatic issues remain. The international community has become involved, and representatives from the U.S., Germany, Turkey, and other countries have participated in talks about the situation on the ground and concerns of a humanitarian crisis. Read also: Russias peacekeeper act crumbles as Azerbaijan overwhelms Nagorno-Karabakh Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The self-declared republic of Nagorno-Karabakh will cease to exist from next year after its president signed a decree dissolving state institutions following its defeat by Azerbaijan. The Azerbaijani victory last week triggered a huge exodus of ethnic Armenians living in Nagorno-Karabakh and marked the end of decades of conflict and potentially the end of centuries of Armenian presence in the region. President Samvel Shahramanyans decree called for all institutions and organizations of the Republic of Artsakh which is not recognized internationally to dissolve from January 1 2024. The Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) ceases its existence, read the decree. Azerbaijan reclaimed control of the breakaway region last week after an offensive lasting just 24 hours. Nagorno-Karabakh lies within Azerbaijans borders but has for decades operated autonomously with a de facto government of its own. Azerbaijan has long been clear about the choice confronting Karabakh Armenians: Stay and accept Azerbaijani citizenship, or leave. The majority of the population has already voted with its feet: Tens of thousands have fled their ancestral home rather than submitting to rule by Baku. How did this happen? After generations of intermittent wars and brittle ceasefires, the suddenness with which Nagorno-Karabakh fell to Azerbaijani troops and with which its ethnic Armenian population has scrambled to evacuate has been startling. Azerbaijan launched its offensive on September 19, firing missile and drones at the regional capital of Stepanakert in what marked the start of a third war fought for control of the region in as many decades. Under the Soviet Union, of which Azerbaijan and Armenia are both former members, Nagorno-Karabakh became an autonomous region within the republic of Azerbaijan. Karabakh officials passed a resolution in 1988 declaring its intention to join the republic of Armenia, causing fighting to break out as the Soviet Union began to crumble, in what became the First Karabakh War. About 30,000 people were killed over six years of violence, which ended in 1994 when the Armenian side gained control of the region. After years of sporadic clashes, the Second Karabakh War began in 2020. Azerbaijan, backed by its historic ally Turkey, reclaimed a third of the territory of Karabakh in just 44 days, before both sides agreed to lay down their weapons in a Russian-brokered ceasefire. But the third war was to last just a day. The Karabakh presidency said its army had been outnumbered several times over by Azerbaijani forces and had no choice but to surrender and agree to the dissolution and complete disarmament of its armed forces, by which time Azerbaijan had killed at least 200 people and injured many hundreds more. A second ceasefire also brokered by Russia came into effect at 1 p.m. on September 20. The swiftness of Karabakhs surrender was a measure of its military inferiority. Armed with Turkish drones, Azerbaijan won a crushing victory in 2020, attacking not only Nagorno-Karabakh but also Armenia itself. Unlike in 2020, Armenias armed forces did not attempt to defend the region during the most recent offensive in part out of fear of further Azerbaijani aggression. They have such an advantage that they could easily cut Armenia in two, Olesya Vartanyan, Crisis Groups senior analyst for the South Caucasus, told CNN. Just through a very short military operation. Probably a day or two for it to happen. Karabakhs despair was Bakus triumph. In a speech to the nation Wednesday evening, Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev announced his forces had punished the enemy properly and that Baku had restored its sovereignty with an iron fist. Shahramanyan, the regions president, said Thursday he had signed the decree due to the current difficult military-political situation. The Azerbaijani presidency had previously insisted that the Artsakh government as well as its armed forces also dissolve itself. It warned if they did not do so, that the offensive would continue until the end. What happens next? The day after the ceasefire, Baku sent representatives to meet with Karabakh officials and discuss reintegration. Few details were released of the talks, but Azerbaijan has long been explicit about the choice confronting ethnic Armenians in the region. In a speech delivered in May, he said Karabakh officials needed to bend their necks and accept full integration into Azerbaijan. Farid Shafiyev, chair of the Center of Analysis of International Relations in Baku an organization involved in the government discussions about reintegration told CNN: Those who dont want to accept Azerbaijani jurisdiction, they have to leave. Those who would like to stay and get the passports, they are welcome to stay. Aliyev claimed that the rights of Karabakh Armenians will be guaranteed, but Armenias Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and international experts have repeatedly warned of the risk of ethnic cleansing. Thousands have chosen to flee to Armenia rather than live under Azerbaijani rule. - Alain Jocard/AFP/Getty Images For many Karabakh Armenians, the choice offered by Azerbaijan was no choice at all. I cant trust them, their fake promises, Siranush Sargsyan, a local journalist based in Stepanakert, told CNN. Anna Ohanyan, a senior scholar in the Russia and Eurasia program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said she feared what would happen to local residents who chose to stay and attempted to refuse Azerbaijani citizenship. If the Armenian community will not leave, but also will not take up Azerbaijani passports, I think that basically would be suicidal, Ohanyan told CNN. Will any Armenians remain? More than half of the local population had fled Nagorno-Karabakh for Armenia by Thursday morning. Many harbored no hope that they can ever return to their ancestral homeland. They changed our flag, our government surrendered. Thats all. No Armenian will be left here within maybe two weeks, Nonna Poghosyan, the American University of Armenias program coordinator in Stepanakert, told CNN. Ohanyan said that the best case scenario would be that Azerbaijan erects a Potemkin village that is, a sham settlement intending to paint a false picture to the outside world, the sort once used to impress Russian empress Catherine the Great. But in the long term, I think there will be a systematic push, continued demographic engineering to push Armenian communities outside the region, Ohanyan said. Images shared with CNN showed long lines of cars along the Lachin corridor the only road connecting the enclave to Armenia as thousands of residents attempted to flee at once. Lines of cars are seen around Lachin corridor as thousands fled Nagorno-Karabakh. - Maxar Technologies Poghosyan arrived in Armenia Thursday morning with her husband, twin children, parents and grandmother. She said what ordinarily would have been a 45 minute drive had taken the seven of them 35 hours, so snarled up was the road. Who will take the refugees? Pashinyan said in a speech Sunday his government will welcome our sisters and brothers of Nagorno-Karabakh to the Republic of Armenia with all care. But how prepared Armenia a nation of some 2.8 million people is to house up to 120,000 arrivals from Nagorno-Karabakh remains unclear. Many of those on the move landed in temporary refugee camps set up in the border towns of Goris and Kornidzor. During a visit to Armenia, United States Agency for International Development (USAID) chief Samantha Power warned those arriving were suffering from severe malnutrition. Power warned of the "dire" humanitarian situation during a visit to Kornidzor, September 26, 2023. - Astrig Agopian/Getty Images Nagorno-Karabakh has been under blockade since December 2022, when Azerbaijan-backed activists established a military checkpoint on the Lachin corridor. The blockade prevented the import of food, fuel and medicine to Nagorno-Karabakh, prompting fears that residents were being left to starve. CNN spoke to residents of Stepanakert, the regions capital, before the beginning of the offensive, who said they would have to wait in line for hours each day to receive their daily ration of bread. The blockade was only lifted last week to allow residents to flee. Can everyone leave? Analysts told CNN before the evacuations began that they feared Azerbaijan might prevent certain members of the population from leaving. Vartanyan, of Crisis Group, said she was concerned about who would manage the routes into Armenia. Will it be Russian peacekeepers, the ICRC, or will it be Azerbaijani authorities? she asked. Does it mean people will have to go through filtration camps? And then will people get detained for example, the local men who took part in the fighting in the past, or those who were part of the local de facto authorities? Over the weekend, one of the main things that people were doing in Stepanakert was burning all the possible documentation that could become evidence for the Azerbaijani authorities that they personally were part of the de facto government, Vartanyan said. On Wednesday, Ruben Vardanyan, a prominent Karabakh politician and businessman, was arrested at a border checkpoint at the Lachin corridor and taken to Baku, the border service said. Vardanyan was indicted for multiple charges Thursday, including financing terrorism, participating in the creation and activities of illegal armed groups, and illegally crossing Azerbaijani borders, according to state media. The Azerbaijani State Security Services allege that Vardanyan funded illegal military units in the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Baku has long maintained that the Artsakh government and its armed forces have operated illegally on Azerbaijans territory. A video published by the security services appeared to show Vardanyan in detention. Shakhramanyan signed the decree Thursday, agreeing to dissolve the Artsakh state from next year. - National Assembly of Republic of Artsakh/PHOTOLURE/AP/FILE David Babayan, a local politician and adviser to president Shahramanyan, said Thursday he would hand himself in to Azerbaijan. You all know that I am included in the black list of Azerbaijan and the Azerbaijani side demanded my arrival in Baku for an appropriate investigation, Babayan wrote on Telegram. My failure to appear, or worse, my escape, will cause serious harm to our long-suffering nation. In the decree signed Thursday, president Shahramanyan called on Azerbaijan to allow the free, unconstrained, and unhindered passing of the population of Nagorno-Karabakh, including the militants who laid down their weapons, with their property and transportation means through Lachin corridor. CNNs Benjamin Brown, Aren Melikyan, Gul Tuysuz and Scott McLean contributed reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com In the Apple TV+ docuseries The Super Models, Naomi Campbell recalls her relationship with the late designer Azzedine Alaia. To many, the late designer Azzedine Alaia is the man behind some of the early aughts most significant fashion moments, including when Halle Berry accepted her historic Academy Award for Best Actress in 2002 while dressed in a gown by Alaia. But to legendary model and designer Naomi Campbell, Alaia was Papa. In Apple TV+s docuseries The Super Models, Campbell, models Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista and Christy Turlington take viewers down memory lane through their rise as the worlds first supermodels. Azzedine Alaia and Naomi Campbell. (Photo by Pool SIMON/STEVENS/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images) Among the highlights Campbell discusses, she recounts her endearing relationship with Alaia and how he became a protective father figure for the young model. Campbell, the daughter of a teen mother in London, said she never knew her biological father. That feeling of abandonment, theres nothing she couldve done to change that feeling with me, she said. I also believe a lot of that was part of my drive, too, not having my father figure in my life. But then I got blessed. Campbell said she met Alaia in Paris as a teen during a chance encounter. While working in Paris at 16, Campbell said someone stole her purse with all the travelers checks her mother had given her. I was going to dinner with another model because she [took] pity on me, and thats when I met Azzedine Alaia, she said. He doesnt speak English. I dont speak French, but theres something. During another encounter, Campbell said Alaia gave her an outfit of his to try on, and after liking the look, he inquired about her mother and where Campbell stayed. At the time, she was alone and staying at a hotel. After hearing that the young girl was alone and learning that her mother spoke French, Campbell connected the two where Alaia explained that he would take care of Campbell while she lived with him. My mother did not know who she was talking to, never met him, but trusted him. And so, two days later, I moved into Rue du Parc Royale, she said. It wasnt long before Alaia introduced Campbell to the vastness of the world. I met so many amazing people, I learned about art, architecture, design, most importantly I got to watch him work, she said. I got to be part of his work, and he really treated me like a daughter. Campbell recalled how Alaia would cook her breakfast and dinner, theyd have typical father-daughter fights, and shed even sneak out of his house to go clubbing. Theyd call and tell him I was in the nightclub, hed come down to the nightclub, and before he would take me home, hed say, You wore the outfit wrong, and hed be fixing it. Because you have to imagine, the boutique was my closet. What girl of 16 years old has an Alaia shop as her closet?! Campbell gushed. Alaia took the role of surrogate father to Campbell very seriously. In one such example, Campbell described when an art director told her she thought her breasts were perfect before touching them. I called Papa immediately, she said. I called Papa right away, and Papa called him up and read him. He never came near me again. It served that I opened my mouth and would speak my truth because I believe that protected me, as well as who I was surrounded by. Alaia and Campbell remained very close right up until the day he died in 2017. She said he was her protector and guided her through the industry. She described his death as a shock to her system. Through tears, she said she thought, My papa was going to live forever. TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, and Android TV. TheGrios Black Podcast Network is free too. Download theGrio mobile apps today! Listen to Writing Black with Maiysha Kai. The post Naomi Campbell opens up about how designer Azzedine Alaia protected her from predators appeared first on TheGrio. As NASA saw its first asteroid sample return to Earth this past weekend, three museums took particular notice, knowing that they had been chosen to display small examples of the newly landed space rock material. The Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C., Space Center Houston in Texas and the University of Arizona's Alfie Norville Gem and Mineral Museum in Tucson were quietly selected by NASA to exhibit a piece of the asteroid Bennu as brought back to Earth by the space agency's OSIRIS-REx mission. The probe's sample return capsule touched down in the Utah desert on Sunday morning (Sept. 24). collectSPACE.com first learned of the chosen locations from sources with knowledge of NASA's plans. The museums then confirmed the details in separate statements. Related: NASA's OSIRIS-REx lands samples of asteroid Bennu to Earth after historic 4-billion-mile journey "The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History expects to receive two samples from the asteroid Bennu this fall," said Ryan Lavery, senior press officer with the museum. "The first will serve as a cornerstone of the museum's 'Our Unique Planet' research initiative, which seeks to answer fundamental questions about the origins of life, the ocean and the continents on Earth." "The second will go on exhibit in our Hall of Geology, Gems and Minerals. It will be the first sample of Bennu put on public display in the United States, and we look forward to sharing it with our more than four million annual visitors," Lavery said. "We will announce the unveiling date in the near future." A spokesperson for the Alfie Norville Gem and Mineral Museum told collectSPACE that a sample is expected to go on display in November and more details would be shared when available. "As we prepare for the arrival of the OSIRIS-REx sample here at Space Center Houston, we are celebrating a scientific triumph by sharing a piece of the cosmos that reminds us of humanity's boundless curiosity and our relentless quest to unlock the mysteries of the universe," said William Harris, president and chief executive of Space Center Houston, the official visitor center for NASA's Johnson Space Center and a Smithsonian affiliate. "This celestial treasure embodies the spirit of exploration, and its presence here inspires us all to continue pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and space exploration." While the details of the displays are still being worked out, including the size and nature of the material they will contain, the venues have been told to be ready as early as mid-November for the possible delivery of their Bennu specimen. First, though, scientists need to inspect, categorize and begin studying the contents of the OSIRIS-REx capsule. a small metallic capsule sits inside a white-walled laboratory. Fortunately, there are indications that the spacecraft landed on Earth with more material than the mission was targeted to return. According to NASA, the capsule is estimated to be holding about a half a pound of rocks and soil, or about 8.8 ounces (250 grams). "We promised the agency we would bring back 2 ounces, or about 60 grams, of material," Dante Lauretta, principal investigator for the OSIRIS-REx (or Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification and Security-Regolith Explorer) mission at the University of Arizona, Tucson, said at a press briefing. "We believe, based on some very clever spacecraft engineering from our partners at Lockheed Martin measuring the momentum change on the spacecraft as we articulated its robotic arm that we have at least four times that material." NASA scientists on Tuesday found black dust and debris on the avionics deck of the OSIRIS-REx science canister, hinting at the material held within. Most of that is intended for scientific study. From the specially-built curation lab at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, the plan is to distribute portions of asteroid Bennu to a sample analysis team of more than 200 members from more than 35 globally distributed institutions. Approximately six months after the return, a sample catalog will be released, and more of the material from Bennu will be made available for research by scientists around the world for decades to come. Of the total amount received, 4% will be delivered to the Canadian Space Agency, which contributed the OSIRIS-REx laser altimeter instrument aboard the spacecraft and which supports the Canadian co-investigators on the OSIRIS-REx science team. An additional 0.5% of the total returned material will be provided to the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) as part of a partnership between the two space agencies, which included NASA's support for JAXA's Hayabusa2 mission and the exchange of scientists and samples between the two missions. Japan was the first to collect asteroid samples and return them to Earth with its Hayabusa and Hayabusa2 missions in 2010 and 2020, respectively. The material retained by NASA will be held at the Johnson Space Center, though a portion will be stored at a secure backup facility in White Sands, New Mexico, similar to the procedures that were followed to protect the Apollo moon rocks from natural disasters and attacks. Related: The moon on Earth: Where are NASA's Apollo lunar rocks now? children in a museum look at a small, dark rock encased in a protective glass container RELATED STORIES: 'I literally broke into tears': The scientist leading NASA's epic OSIRIS-REx asteroid mission just had the greatest day ever How asteroid Bennu caught NASA's OSIRIS-REx spacecraft by surprise and nearly killed it along the way Dramatic sampling shows asteroid Bennu is nothing like scientists expected NASA placed the first Apollo moon rocks to go on display at the Smithsonian's Arts and Industries Building in Washington, D.C. on Sept. 17, 1969, and the American Museum of Natural History in New York City two months later on Nov. 16. Both exhibits drew long lines of spectators, with the latter recording a record crowd of 42,195 people in the four hours the display was open on its first day. The six Apollo moon landing missions bought back a total of 842 pounds (382 kilograms) of material, much more than OSIRIS-REx is returning, so more exhibits were possible. Today, 135 nations, the 50 U.S. states and U.S. provinces each own gifted samples from the Apollo 11 and Apollo 17 missions. NASA has also loaned more than 80 moon rocks and lunar dust samples to museums in 23 U.S. states and 11 foreign nations. OSIRIS-REx is the third U.S. interplanetary mission to land collected material on Earth. The first, Stardust, brought back samples from Comet Wild 2 and of the interstellar dust. NASA then launched Genesis to bring back a sample of solar wind particles. A parachute failure, though, resulted in its sample return capsule slamming into the Utah desert. The material collected by Stardust and what could be recovered from Genesis is curated at the Johnson Space Center. The empty Stardust sample return capsule, though, was transferred for display to the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. in 2008. Follow collectSPACE.com on Facebook and on Twitter at @collectSPACE. Copyright 2023 collectSPACE.com. All rights reserved. SANAA, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Yemen's Houthi rebels on Wednesday sacked their "cabinet" which controls the country's north, amid the eruption of mass protests. The decision was announced by the group's leader Abdulmalik al-Houthi during a celebration to mark the birthday of the Muslim prophet Mohammed in the capital Sanaa. "The formation of a new competent cabinet will serve as a first stage of essential change ... to correct policies, serve the people, and address economic problems," the rebel leader said in a televised speech. The move came a day after widespread confrontations between the rebel forces and residents across the streets of Sanaa and the provinces of Hodeidah and Ibb. The protesters had been demanding various improvements, including salaries, better government services, access to electricity and clean water, and measures to counter economic decline. The confrontations erupted first on the eve of Tuesday when people gathered in Al-Tahrir Square in downtown Sanaa to mark the 61st anniversary of September Revolution Day. This annual event celebrated on Sept. 26 marks the ousting of Imam Muhammad al-Badr on this date in 1962, which led to the establishment of the Yemen Arab Republic. Houthi security forces reportedly used live ammunition to disperse the demonstrators, resulting in numerous injuries and arrests. Tanks, armored vehicles, and armed personnel were also deployed throughout the streets. The Houthi group has been facing increasing pressure from the residents in their areas amid rapid economic deterioration. Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi militia seized control of several northern provinces and forced the Saudi-backed Yemeni government out of the capital. The war has killed tens of thousands of people and pushed the country to the brink of starvation. The NASCAR All-Star Race will be held May 17-19 at the North Wilkesboro Speedway, NASCAR and the venue announced Thursday. The announcement came outside of the North Carolina Legislative Building in downtown Raleigh. This will be the second consecutive year NASCAR will host one of its premiere events at the recently revitalized track. This story is breaking and will be updated. A pivotal election is underway in Durham, with voters set to choose a new mayor and fill three City Council seats this fall. There are 12 people competing for the City Council seats, including two incumbents. A primary is being held to narrow the field. Early voting in the primary runs through Oct. 7 and Primary Day is Oct. 10. The top six candidates will proceed to the general election in November. Terms last four years. The seats are at-large, which means candidates can live anywhere in the city. We collected questions from residents across Durham to help readers get to know the candidates. Nate Baker Name: Nate Baker Age: 34 Occupation: Urban planner Website: natefordurham.com Are we paying people competitively and keeping our promises to our workers? - East Durham resident Aidil Ortiz North Carolina is a challenging place for workers, with our state ranking 49th in the country for union-membership, right-to-work laws that oppress workers, and prohibition on local ordinances for minimum wages and prevention of rent price gouging. At the local level, we have not kept up with the needs of our own city workers, and havent ensured that new developments incorporate public needs like workforce housing that city workers, and other workers, can afford. Many city workers live outside of Durham and commute in because pay has not kept up with our citys rising cost of living. We need to ensure our workers can afford to live in Durham. Do you have any experience that helps you understand development in Durham? How do you plan to get more affordable units in the city? - Planning commissioner Zuri Williams I have over a decade of experience as an urban planner. I have worked for two city governments and work as a consultant providing planning, policy, and regulatory guidance to city councils and governments on development issues across the state. I am the senior-most member of the Durham Planning Commission where I have served for over five years. We need to prioritize our limited public dollars on affordable housing for those with extremely low incomes. We need to use the power of zoning, combined with regulatory sticks and carrots and financial resources, to protect current tenants and homeowners from displacement, protect existing affordable housing stock, and provide moderately priced, income-restricted workforce housing in all new private developments. As Durham grows more dense, how do we get away from the classic American model of car-oriented development? Are there any policies that you support that can keep us from becoming another Atlanta or Dallas? - Downtown resident Nirav Patel The City Council voting majority has facilitated the largest amount of acreage of unsustainable, auto-dependent growth in Durhams history, approving nearly 10 square miles of sprawl over only the last five years. We need new leadership that will ensure new growth is sustainable, walkable, and transit-oriented. We need to overhaul our zoning regulations, and we need to ensure that overhaul results in the ingredients that create a city for people and places, not continued cars, traffic, and corporate profit. Learn more details about how we can use local public policy to achieve a walkable city that puts people over big real estate developers here: walkabledurham.substack.com What policies do you support for implementing safer streets and reducing car dependency locally and regionally? - Stadium Heights resident Nick Roberts Durham streets are dangerous because our land uses encourage car-dependency and our streets and practices for constructing them are poorly designed. We need to end car-centric sprawl development supported by the status quo and replace it with a model of growth that is transit-oriented, starts requiring big developers to provide public parks and greenways, and protects valuable open space. Durham currently lacks street design standards and defaults to auto-oriented street designs; on council, I will ensure we adopt bold new street design standards that create a safe, comfortable, and inspiring travel experience for pedestrians, transit-riders, bicyclists, and other transportation modes. What will you do to support the mental health needs of everyday Durham residents, especially thousands of young people in our public school systems? - Hillside High School senior Isaiah Palmer I will continue to support emergency mental health services provided by the city, and which complement the work of many of our other emergency service workers. I will seek to bolster mental health services for our city workers. Part of the job of City Council is to work collaboratively across jurisdictions, and I will use the position to coordinate with the county government and public school system to ensure we are using a comprehensive approach to providing mental health services for residents and students. In your vision for the city, what role does public education play and how does that connect to economic development, public safety and community health? - Fayetteville Street corridor resident Erika Wilkins I support public education and believe we must work to fight against the privatization of the public school system without individualizing systemic problems. Education is a human right, and it is essential that we pay and support our teachers and provide them with the tools they need to succeed, including a great city to live in, affordable housing, city-funded youth recreation and community programs, and safe neighborhoods. Public schools and education more broadly is fundamental to quality of life. On the subject of alleged Clean Water Act violations in Falls Lake and its tributaries: How did we get here and who should be held responsible? Who is going to pay for the creek restoration and environmental damage? - Southeast Durham resident Pam Andrews Status quo leadership in Durham has allowed large corporate homebuilders to pillage thousands of acres of land south of Falls Lake and elsewhere, resulting in a short- and long-term climate and environmental crisis. The Southern Environmental Law Center has made it clear that the city of Durhams environmental record is troubling, while taking the lead where our government has not: holding developers in violation of environmental laws accountable. While much damage has already been done, we need to urgently change our policies and practices moving forward while holding the status quo politicians responsible for this crisis accountable at the polls. How have you seen Durham evolve in your time here and whats one thing youll have the power to change if elected? - The News & Observer I was born in Durham in 1988 and, like many of our residents, have seen our city change dramatically in ways that are both exciting and challenging. Were a vibrant city, but have also lost thousands of residents from gentrification and displacement. The City Council holds significant power over the physical shape of our citys growth, and that is an area where Ill seek to fight for a city that works better for our residents. Durhams greatest asset has always been, and continues to be, its people. Im running for council because I have observed a disconnect between the community vision, and policies that are implemented by our local government. I believe we can do better and work together to build a beautiful city where everyone belongs. To find polling places and full details on voting, visit the Board of Elections at dcovotes.com or 919-560-0700. ,New stained-glass windows at the Washington National Cathedral depict a march for justice by African Americans. (Nick Wass/AP) For nearly 70 years, the images of Confederate generals Robert E. Lee and Thomas Stonewall Jackson loomed from stained-glass panels in the National Cathedral, a Washington, D.C., landmark where funerals for presidents and other dignitaries are often held and important events commemorated. The windows were taken down in 2017, shortly after an outburst of racist violence in Charlottesville, Va., intended to stop the removal of a Lee statue there. But it took another six years for the windows to be replaced. Over the weekend, Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson the first Black woman to sit on the high court read from Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.s famous Letter from Birmingham Jail as new windows celebrating the fight for civil rights and racial justice were unveiled. The saga of the Confederate windows sheds light on Washingtons complex past as a majority-Black city with a legacy of racism and segregation that extends far beyond stained glass. Read more on Yahoo News: Stained glass window shows Jesus Christ with dark skin, stirring questions about race in New England, from the Associated Press The Lost Cause rises Supporters of Confederate statues and symbols gather in Lexington, Va., Jan. 17, 2020. (Jonathan Drake/Reuters) The removed panels honoring Lee and Jackson which include a depiction of the Confederate flag were donated to the cathedral by the United Daughters of the Confederacy in 1953. Statues and memorials to the Confederacy proliferated in the first half of the 20th century. These memorials disingenuously celebrated the Confederacy as a noble Lost Cause while entirely ignoring the Souths centuries-long reliance on slavery, which culminated in the Civil War. The United Daughters of the Confederacy were central in spreading the Lost Cause mythology. Their goal, in all the work that they did, was to prepare future generations of white Southerners to respect and defend the principles of the Confederacy, historian Karen Cox told FiveThirtyEight. As the push for civil rights gained momentum throughout the late 1950s and early 60s, Confederate memorials stood out ever more starkly as sites of white resistance to racial progress. Read more on Yahoo News: When Confederate-glorifying monuments went up in the South, voting in Black areas went down, from the Conversation D.C.s complicated legacy Princeton University's Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs is seen in Princeton, New Jersey, November 20, 2015. Princeton University has pledged to consider renaming buildings dedicated to former U.S. President Woodrow Wilson, the latest U.S. campus effort to quell student complaints of racism. (Dominick Reuter/Reuters) Washington is situated below the Mason-Dixon line, which separated free and slave-holding states in the 19th century, and was a decidedly Southern city for much of its early history. Today, the city is closely integrated into the Northeastern corridor that stretches north to Boston. Abraham Lincoln abolished slavery in the District of Columbia in 1862, and many Black people flocked there in the decades after the Civil War, seeking government jobs that afforded thousands of families passage into the middle class. That door was slammed shut by Woodrow Wilson, whose progressive beliefs disguised an underlying racial contempt. Wilson promptly filled his administration with segregationists who worked diligently to segregate as much of the work force as they could, Brent Staples wrote in a 2017 New York Times history of race relations in Washington. Highly paid black workers were driven out or confined to lower-paying jobs, undercutting the nascent black middle class. Many black workers were barred from offices, bathrooms and lunch tables that they once had shared with white co-workers. It was not until 1973 that Washington finally won home rule and was allowed to elect its own mayor. Congress had been reluctant to hand over control of the district in large part because of its majority-Black citizenship. Even today, Congress retains unprecedented power to intervene in Washingtons affairs. Read more on Yahoo News: Dont erase Woodrow Wilson. Expose him. A reckoning in Washington A vandalized statue of Albert Pike, a Confederate general, near Capitol Hill. (Tom Brenner/Reuters) In 2009, the nation elected its first Black president, Barack Obama, whose presidency was perceived by some as the start of a post-racial era in the country. Washington changed, too, absorbing some of New Yorks cool and attracting young new residents. The district lost its Black majority in 2011. The election of Donald Trump, however, made clear that no post-racial moment had arrived. Protests against his administration erupted at once, and Washington often had the grim feel of a city under siege. The tensions that had been building throughout the Obama and Trump administrations, and that had been exacerbated by the more recent isolation of the coronavirus pandemic, exploded in the summer of 2020. Protesters toppled the statue of Gen. Albert Pike, the only outdoor Confederate monument in Washington, which led to an angry outburst from Trump. He made defending Confederate statuary a central premise of his losing reelection campaign. The following year, the House voted to remove statues commemorating Confederates and enslavers. Read more on Yahoo News: Democrats reintroduce legislation to remove remaining Confederate statues in U.S. Capitol, from WSOC-TV Work to be done Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of New York speaking against the display of the Confederate flag at U.S. federal cemeteries, July 9, 2015. (Reuters/House TV/Pool) There is a lot of work yet to be done, the National Cathedrals dean, Randolph Hollerith, said as the new civil-rights-themed windows were installed on Saturday. Washington remains a deeply segregated city, with profound disparities in wealth, educational outcomes and access to parks. But it is also, finally, a city free of the Confederacys legacy. Across the Potomac River, however, there is a memorial to Confederate soldiers at the Arlington National Cemetery. A panel recently recommended its removal. Read more on Yahoo News: Confederate general's remains moved to Virginia hometown, from the Associated Press The famous American popular science TV channel National Geographic has published a photo of the Swallow's Nest Castle in Crimea, but did not specify the country where it is located. "A neo-Gothic castle built around 1900 sits on a cliff over on the Black Sea in Yalta, Crimea," is how National Geographic captioned the photo. In the comments to the post, users, in particular Ukrainians, unanimously reminded National Geographic that Crimea is a part of Ukraine occupied by Russia. Some added that keeping it quiet "helps the aggressor country" and "supports it [Russia ed.]". Bohdan Lohvynenko, the founder of the Ukraner project [Ukrainian studies project.], published a song by the Kryhitka Band about the Ukrainian city of Yalta in the comments. Photo: Screenshot from the National Geographic post on Facebook Nataliia Boiko, the adviser to the Ukrainian prime minister, said, "There is no such country as Crimea, Crimea is Ukraine. Yalta is Ukraine". "It is very funny when a resource about geography gets confused about whose side to take, so they decided to be neutral, calling Ukrainian Crimea a separate country. Are you afraid of Russian subscribers? Poor you..." user Viktoriia Yasinska wrote. As of now, National Geographic has not responded to the Ukrainians' comments and the post has not yet been edited. Background: Since 2014, Russia has committed 534 crimes against the cultural heritage of Ukraine, most of them in Crimea. National Geographic uses a map where Crimea is shown as part of Russia, thereby supporting the occupation of the peninsula. 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 a visit to Kyiv on Thursday, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said Ukraine is gradually gaining ground in its counteroffensive against Russia. Ukrainians are fighting for their families, their future, their freedom; Moscow is fighting for imperial delusions, Stoltenberg said Thursday. Meanwhile, Russia is diminished on the world stage, cut off from international markets, staying home from international summits, and reduced to seeking arms from regimes like Iran and North Korea. Stoltenberg met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss the wars status and the countrys need for troops. Kyivs counteroffensive has been making steady progress, with Ukrainian infantry and armor both breaking through Russias main defensive line in recent weeks, though the effort faces time pressure as winter nears. The meeting also comes one day after Russia accused Ukraines Western allies of helping plan and carry out last weeks missile strike on the headquarters of its Black Sea Fleet. In recent months, Ukraine has ramped up its attacks in Russia, specifically in the capital city of Moscow, where it seeks to increase domestic pressure on the Kremlin. Today, Mr. Secretary General and I discussed all the key defense issues that require attention: the real situation on the battlefield and the needs of Ukrainian warriors, Zelensky said in a statement, adding that he is confident Ukraine can bring more pressure on Russia. A statement from Zelenskys office said the two leaders floated the idea of NATO member states supplying Kyiv with additional air defense systems. Since the beginning of the war, Ukraine has asked for advanced warplanes for its troops. Last month, the U.S. approved the transfer of F-16s to Ukraine from the Netherlands and Denmark. Stoltenberg reiterated Western allies commitment to providing Ukraine with the necessary means to repel the Russian invasion while vowing to train pilots for the F-16 aircraft. The stronger Ukraine becomes, the closer we will get to ending Russian aggression, Stoltenberg said, according to Zelenskys office. Zelensky and Stoltenberg also discussed Ukraines relationship with NATO, with Stoltenberg emphasizing NATOs backing of Ukraine, telling Zelensky the stronger Ukraine becomes, the closer we will get to ending Russian aggression. NATO has held back on providing a clear timeline for Kyiv gaining membership in the Western security alliance, despite Zelenskys repeated requests. This served as a point of contention during the NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, in July, where NATO instead offered strengthened support to Ukraine, a new council to specifically work with Kyiv and the removal of a procedural step for joining the alliance. Zelenskys office said the leaders discussed the NATO-Ukraine Council, as well as establishing a new document to determine practical steps and standards of the alliance. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. (Bloomberg) -- The NATO military alliance is racing to develop technologies to allow real-time detection of suspicious activity near underwater critical infrastructure, after the Nord Stream pipeline blasts one year ago laid bare the difficulty of monitoring. Most Read from Bloomberg Fourteen nations from the alliance, along with Sweden, are testing sea drones, sensors and the use of AI in a 12-day exercise off the coast of Portugal that ends Friday. The exercise comes as Russia continues to map allied cables and pipelines as possible future targets, according to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. NATO has yet to formally accuse any actor for the Nord Stream pipeline explosions, highlighting the challenge both governments and private companies face in attributing such attacks. Real-time detection sends a deterrence signal to the enemy, be it Russia or somebody else, said Lieutenant General Hans-Werner Wiermann, head of NATOs cell for protecting undersea infrastructure. If bad activity can be detected, that allows the 31 NATO allies to consider diplomatic or military responses based on a firm foundation of information, he told reporters visiting the exercise in Troia, south of Lisbon. The aim is to spot malicious behavior around underwater infrastructure as it happens, and to share that information with governments and private operators. Russia has denied early accusations from some western nations it was responsible for the Nord Stream blasts. But incidents in recent months of what appear to be Russian spy ships operating near allied systems have heightened concern, especially in light of Russias advanced sub-sea capabilities. These remain largely intact compared to Moscows land forces bogged down in its invasion of Ukraine. NATO warned in May of a significant risk that Moscow could target infrastructure in Europe and North America, particularly to gain leverage against nations helping Ukraine. Moscow is using a combination of its navy warships, scientific ships as well as commercial fishing trawlers, container ships and tankers to trace NATO allies critical undersea systems, Wiermann said. Undersea data cables carry about $10 trillion worth of financial transactions every day and about 95% of global internet traffic, NATO says. Two thirds of the worlds oil and gas is either extracted at sea or transported by sea. Some of the systems are thousands of kilometers long and hundreds of meters deep below the sea, which makes monitoring complex. In one of the NATO exercises, allies sought to stop a hostile actor attempting to disrupt data networks and wreak havoc on financial markets using a state-sponsored commercial vessel to make their activity more difficult to detect. Commercial fiber optic sensors on the infrastructure cables detected that the fictitious enemys ship was trying to deploy an unmanned underwater vehicle. That information was relayed to NATOs command and control chain. After confirming the threat, NATO then sent in a combination of aerial, surface and underwater drones to intercept and escort the suspicious vessel. Technology will play an increasingly important role to prevent that activity in real life. AI can be used to follow the movements of ships and flag if they are crossing over critical infrastructure multiple times, Wiermann said. In future, fiber optic cables themselves may be able to detect meddling nearby. Highlighting the increasing importance of subsea security, NATO allies agreed in July to establish a new maritime center for undersea critical infrastructure at its maritime command in Northwood, UK. They also agreed to set up a network to improve information sharing between NATO, its allies and the private sector, to act fast on intelligence like the kind picked up by the sensors or AI systems. After the Nord Stream explosions, most pipeline operators were very nervous and launched full scale scans of their assets, monitoring about 9,000 kilometers (5,592 miles) of pipelines, Wiermann said. They did it, but it cost them a fortune. And they dont want to do this necessarily again, Wiermann said. We want to have the speediest information exchange between the actors as possible because if we want to detect suspicious behavior in real time, we have to act very quickly. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny is being transferred to a single-cell room for one year, Navalny wrote on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, on Sept. 27. The news comes after Judge Viktor Rogov of the Moscow City Court rejected Navalny's appeal against a 19-year sentence on extremism charges handed to him on Aug. 4, Russian state news agency RIA Novosti reported. That sentence is on top of the 11-and-a-half years Navalny is currently serving in a maximum security prison after being convicted in 2020 for fraud and other charges, all of which he denies. The court on Sept. 27 also denied an appeal by Daniel Kholodny, a TV producer who worked for Navalny's YouTube channel and who was also sentenced in August to eight years in prison in the same case. Navalny described the new cell he was to be held in as "the strictest possible punishment in all kinds of prisons." The August sentence already called for Navalny to serve his time in a "special regime colony," Russia's most restrictive penal institution usually reserved for dangerous criminals. After the announcement in August, Navalny posted on Twitter that, "the number (of years) doesn't matter. I understand very well that, like many political prisoners, I am serving a life sentence. Where life is measured by the duration of my life or the life of this regime." The European Union, the U.S., and the U.K. criticized the court's sentence as politically motivated and demanded the immediate release of Navalny. Read also: Navalny movie review: Documentary depicts a hero, but who is Navalny to Ukraine? Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The Navy criticized Iran as unprofessional after a U.S. helicopter was hit with lasers Wednesday. Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN) interacted in an unsafe and unprofessional manner with a U.S. AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter, assigned to the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), as the aircraft was conducting routine operations in the international airspace of the Arabian Gulf, Sept. 27, said Cmdr. Rick Chernitzer, a U.S. Naval Forces Central Command spokesman, in a Thursday press release. The interaction took place at approximately 7:30 p.m. local time, Chernitzer continued. The aircraft is attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 162 (Reinforced), deployed aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), on a scheduled deployment to the Middle East Region. The helicopter hit comes after five American hostages were freed and arrived in the U.S. earlier this month. The Biden administration allowed for the transfer of $6 billion of Iranian funds frozen in a Qatari bank as part of the deal, which was criticized by some. I want to get these Americans home more than anybody, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) said last month. But we have to go in [with] eyes wide open. [The] $6 billion that now is going to go into Iran [will] prop up their proxy war, terror operations, and their nuclear bomb aspirations. President Biden also warned Americans of traveling to Iran in a statement about the hostages returning to the U.S. The U.S. State Department has a longstanding travel warning that states: Do not travel to Iran due to the risk of kidnapping and the arbitrary arrest and detention of U.S. citizens, Biden said. All Americans should heed those words and have no expectation that their release can be secured if they do not. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Roughly 14 months after the Navy promised to do better for sailors when it comes to processing their pay, personnel needs and DD-214 retirement paperwork, officials say they have gotten the wait times to within the Defense Department standards and are seeking to continue to cut down processing times. Were within the DoD standards across the board for pay services for sailors, Rear Adm. Stuart Satterwhite, the head of the Navys human resources enterprise, said in an interview with Navy Times earlier this month. Last summer, we were out of those standards. Despite a summer surge of travel claims submitted by sailors in connection to permanent change of station moves, Satterwhite said that the Navy is processing those claims within 10 days, well within the 30-day DoD standard. If I was to go back to June of last year for my travel claims, it probably would have taken over 100 days, he said. So, thats pretty significant. Were going to drive to continue to improve the time it takes to deliver, to get a sailors transaction addressed and paid to get money in their pocket, he added. Heres how the Navy says its going to fix sailor pay issues When it comes to processing DD-214 paperwork for a sailors separation or retirement, Satterwhite said the service is making strides in ensuring sailors have those records in hand when they go on terminal leave. Right now, were in September, and we are processing all the way out into Januarys separation and retirements where that paperwork has been submitted, he said. I already have DD-214s out for members review to January right now. For other military pay changes and transactions, Satterwhite said earlier this month that the service was processing things like basic allowance to housing adjustments in eight days, when the DoD standard is 30 days. But late separation or retirement packages still gum up the system, and the Navy has urged sailors to put in their separation or retirement paperwork at least 60 days prior to the start of terminal leave. He said he assumes every departing sailor will take 60 days of terminal leave as well, so any paperwork filed within 120 days before a sailors departure date isnt coming in on time. Those sailors who are late filing their package are still dealt with first so that they have their DD-214 in hand when they leave, but it causes other sailors who did file on time to be pushed back in the queue, Satterwhite said. As a result, Navy HR is pushing commands to ensure that such paperwork is filed as early as possible. The so-called Enhanced Unit Commanders Financial Report now includes a column that shows triads which sailors are within 180 days of their scheduled departure date, so that they can track sailors who are deciding if they are going to separate or retire, Satterwhite said. Satterwhite credits much of the processing time improvement to transaction service centers and support centers stood up last year that are exclusively focused on certain fleet pay and personnel categories. Inside the Navys pay and personnel crisis Meanwhile, Satterwhite and his boss, Chief of Naval Personnel Vice Adm. Rick Cheeseman, said they are focused on the continuing and difficult task of modernizing the Navys assorted information technology systems that handle sailor pay, personnel and benefits. Navy Times reported earlier this year on challenges the service has faced during its so-called HR Transformation, which involves consolidating and modernizing a series of very old IT systems that handle different Navy tasks. Such jobs are heavy lifts for any organization, but during a townhall aboard the guided-missile cruiser Chosin in August, Cheeseman wondered aloud why all these old Navy IT systems dont take to each other better. Sailors assigned to the guided-missile cruiser Chosin listen to Chief of Naval Personnel Vice Adm. Rick Cheeseman during a townhall on Aug. 10 at Naval Station Everett, Wash. (Geoff Ziezulewicz/Navy Times) He pointed out how, during a PCS move, sailors should be tracked from the losing command to the gaining command in one system. Right now, we get surprised when somebody submits their travel claim late, but its my organization that issues the orders to begin with, just in a different building in Millington, the Tennessee home of Navy Personnel Command, Cheeseman said. So why cant it be: orders get issued, a (case number) automatically gets generated, an email gets sent to you, the gaining and the losing command, congratulations, heres orders for ET2 whoever heres his loss date, heres where he needs to be, he continued. And then the loss transaction is processed under that (case number), the travel is conducted under that (case number), the gain is conducted under that (case number), and then we know because we see the case generated the minute the orders are issued. If a sailor has been at his or her new command for five days but has yet to file a travel claim, that overarching system would be tracking it and can help ensure the sailor files and is paid fast, Cheeseman said. Such a system would be efficient and transparent, he added. While Cheeseman called such a system the future, he and other leaders have admitted in the past that HR modernization is difficult. Were close to that, in our lab, he told Chosin sailors in August. We got to be able to scale it. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) New state laws go into effect on Oct. 1 including a $1,000 limit on up-front payments for home improvement projects, regulations on the sale or possession of catalytic converters and big changes to insurance laws that are causing concern for business owners. Bills that passed this year and were signed into law by Gov. Joe Lombardo didnt all go into effect immediately. Many of them had effective dates of Oct. 1, and some others dont begin until Jan. 1, 2024. In all, more than 100 new laws go into effect on Sunday, Oct. 1. Here are some of the noteworthy changes: CONSUMER PROTECTION: After too many stories of home improvement rip-offs, lawmakers gave consumers some help with Assembly Bill 39 (AB39). The law bars contractors from charging more than $1,000 upfront unless they post a Consumer Protection Bond with the Nevada State Contractors Board. If the whole job is less than $10,000, the down payment can only be 10% of the total. AB39 applies to work performed at single-family residences. It cuts some of the risk for homeowners, and the state has produced a contract checklist to help consumers know their rights. Contract-Checklist_Consumer-Tool_AB39-1Download INSURANCE CHANGE: AB398 introduces a lot of uncertainty into the Nevada market for insurance, taking legal fees out of the equation. That means insurance companies are going to re-evaluate policies, and perhaps charge more for separate coverage for legal fees. Under current law, a $100,000 liability policy might only pay $60,000 to the consumer because there were $40,000 in legal fees. AB389 says thats not allowed the policy amount is the policy amount. There are predictions that some companies will just decide theyre not doing business in Nevada anymore. In any case, a lot of policies are likely to change, and insurance companies are required to provide 60 days notice that the policy will be altered or non-renewed. I CANT BREATHE: Although Metro police say its current policies make Senate Bill 362 (SB362) unnecessary in Las Vegas, lawmakers changed state law to make sure all police departments listen and act to get medical assistance when a person is in distress. SB362 also allows the Department of Motor Vehicles to adopt regulations to give drivers the option of indicating a medical condition with a symbol on their license that can be easily identified and expedite an appropriate medical response. Its voluntary on the drivers part. SB362 also addresses an odd practice reported in other states in which police have weaponized music clips playing copyrighted music while interacting with the public to prevent video sharing on YouTube. That hasnt happened in Nevada, officials said. SEXUAL ASSUALT: SB321 establishes the Sexual Assault Survivors Bill of Rights. It prevents law enforcement from using evidence collected in a sexual assault investigation to prosecute the victim on other criminal charges. DNA collected from a sexual assault investigation may not be added to databases that are stored or exchanged with other law enforcement agencies. ANIMAL CRUELTY: SB269 prohibits restraining a dog for more than 10 hours during a 24-hour period. It also eliminates some exceptions to rules related to boarding facilities. CATALYTIC CONVERTERS: SB243 gives law enforcement the tools to stop catalytic converter thieves, establishing common-sense restrictions on possession of the devices. Before this law, police were unable to arrest suspects unless they were caught in the act of stealing a catalytic converter. Starting Oct. 1, youll need to sign a statement that you own the device and abide by strict record keeping requirements for sales. SB243 sets up the framework for tracking sales to licensed scrap metal processors. (The Associated Press) ELECTION WORKERS: SB406 puts protections into place for election workers, making it a category E felony to threaten or try to use force, intimidation, coercion, violence, restraint or undue influence in an attempt to interfere or retaliate against them. Its also against the law to disseminate personal information of an election worker with the intent to bring harm to them. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ARRESTS: The law requiring police to make an arrest within 24 hours of a domestic violence call gets an important update, now allowing police seven days to make an arrest. AB51 is crucial, supporters say, because its too easy for offenders to hide for a day to elude police. The change means police wont need to obtain a warrant if the arrest is made within a week. ID CARD RULES: AB135 contains several changes to help the homeless obtain identification, and provisions of the new law also include the 988 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number on school IDs. Homeless youth (under 25) can have a one-time waiver on fees for DMV ID cards. REPORTING SEX TRAFFICKING: AB183 requires child welfare workers to screen children for signs of sex trafficking commercial sexual exploitation. This is already happening in Clark County and Washoe County according to testimony presented to lawmakers, but standard screening methods are now going out to rural counties. FILE Bags of Fentanyl pills recently recovered by Drug Enforcement Administration Agents in San Diego. (Elliott Macias/KSWB San Diego) FENTANYL LAWS: SB35 establishes the amount of fentanyl that constitutes trafficking and high-level trafficking. Fentanyl doses are so small and potentially deadly that existing drug trafficking laws rarely allowed charges that were more serious than possession. The new law sets fentanyl trafficking thresholds: 28-42 grams for trafficking and 42-100 grams for high-level trafficking (both category B felonies). STATE EV CONVERSION: AB262 mandates a preference in state purchases for vehicles that minimize emissions and have lower costs over the life of the vehicle. It also requires the Fleet Services Division to keep records on the fuel used by each vehicle. While it doesnt explicitly require the purchase of electric vehicles (EVs) in every case, AB262 declares that its the states goal to transition to zero tailpipe emissions by 2050. TRICK DRIVING: AB408 gives police the authority to tow vehicles involved in trick driving displays. If the vehicle is helping to facilitate a trick driving display, its also subject to towing. AB408 contains several provisions related to towing companies. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. Disciplinary inspections key for Party governance 08:44, September 28, 2023 By CAO DESHENG ( China Daily The Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee convened a meeting on Wednesday to deliberate a report on the first round of disciplinary inspections launched at the end of March by the 20th CPC Central Committee. Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, presided over the meeting. The meeting's participants pointed out that the first round of disciplinary inspections had advanced political oversight in a "concrete, targeted and regular "manner, sending a clear signal that adhering to strict governance of the Party and the Party's self-reform is an ongoing process. Practice has proven that disciplinary inspections are an effective means to identify and solve problems, and continued efforts should be made in this regard, they said. The disciplinary inspections involved leading Party organizations in 30 centrally administered State-owned enterprises, five major financial agencies and the General Administration of Sport of China. Between Sept 20 and 22, a total of 15 central inspection teams delivered their feedback and specified problems involving the inspected organizations. The problems include shortcomings in ensuring coordination between development and security, self-governance of the Party and the Party's frugality rules. The meeting's participants urged the inspected Party organizations, especially the leading officials, to shoulder their responsibilities and take strict and concrete measures to rectify problems. They also urged the inspected Party organizations to strengthen the Party's overall leadership, continuously enhance the core functions and competitiveness of the SOEs, consolidate the material and political foundations of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and increase financial enterprises' support for the real economy and national strategies in order to promote high-quality development. It is necessary to coordinate development and security, keep the worst-case scenario in mind and take effective measures to prevent and address major risks, the meeting's participants said. Disciplinary inspections are an important way for the CPC to fight against corruption and conduct checks and oversight over the exercise of power within the Party as well as Party officials' conduct and style of work. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) VIENTIANE, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Celebrations leading up to the Mid-Autumn Festival, which falls on Friday, have attracted appreciation for Chinese culture in Laos. The Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth month of the Chinese lunar calendar, has been observed by people of Chinese origin for thousands of years, usually marked by family reunions, a full moon viewing and the consumption of mooncakes. On Sept. 23, cultural performances were organized in the Lao capital Vientiane on the theme of "Group Opera Singing under the moonlight." On Sept. 12, the Chinese cultural Center in Laos collaborated with the Laos-China Railway Co., Ltd. (LCRC) and Liaodu Chinese School to organize a flash mob performance celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival at the Vientiane Station of the China-Laos Railway. The beautiful singing of songs widely known in China attracted the passengers who were waiting at the station. Everyone gave warm applause and wished each other "Happy Mid-Autumn Festival" in both Chinese and Laos. NASA astronaut Frank Rubio and two Russian cosmonauts undocked from the International Space Station and plunged back to Earth early Wednesday, landing on the steppe of Kazakhstan to close out an unexpected yearlong stay in space, the longest single flight in U.S. space history. With Soyuz MS-69/23S commander Sergey Prokopyev monitoring cockpit displays, flanked on the left by co-pilot Dmitri Petelin and on the right by NASA flight engineer Frank Rubio, the Russian ferry ship undocked from the space station's multi-port Prichal module at 3:54:30 a.m. EDT. The Soyuz MS-23/69S spacecraft carrying Sergey Prokopyev, Dmitri Petelin and NASA astronaut Frank Rubio descends toward landing in Kazakhstan on Sept. 27, 2023, in the final chapter of a U.S.-record 371-day stay in space. / Credit: Roscosmos via NASA After backing a safe distance away from the lab complex and waiting to reach the precise point in space to begin the descent, the spacecraft fired its braking rockets for four minutes and 39 seconds starting at 6:24 a.m., slowing the ship's 17,100-mph velocity by about 286 mph. That was just enough to drop the far side of the orbit deep into the atmosphere, putting the ship on course for the targeted landing site. After separating from the upper orbital compartment and lower propulsion and power module, the central crew compartment, the only one protected by a heat shield, hit the top of the discernible atmosphere, 62 miles up, at 6:55 a.m. and landed near the town of Dzhezkazgan at 7:17 a.m. (5:17 p.m. local time). "Everybody did really well," Rubio said. "It's good to be home." Frank Rubio, smiling and showing an enthusiastic thumbs up, was carried from the Soyuz to a nearby recliner while a flight surgeon and nurse carry out initial medical checks. / Credit: Roscosmos via NASA Unofficial mission duration: 370 days, 21 hours and 22 minutes in a voyage spanning 5,936 orbits and 157 million miles. The Soyuz MS-23/69S spacecraft backs away from the International Space Station on Sept. 27, 2023, kicking off a 3-hour 23-minute descent to landing on the steppe of Kazakhstan. / Credit: NASA Television Asked what he looked forward to the most once back on Earth, Rubio, a father of four, said "hugging my wife and kids is going to be paramount. And I'll probably focus on that for the first couple days." "We're blessed enough to have kind of a quiet backyard," he added. "And I think just going out in the yard and enjoying the trees and the silence. Up here, we kind of have the constant hum of machinery. ... So I'm looking forward to just being outside and enjoying the peace and quiet." Russian recovery crews, along with U.S. flight surgeons and support personnel, were standing by at the Soyuz landing site to help the returning crew out of the cramped decent module as their bodies begin re-adjusting to unfamiliar strain of gravity after a full year in weightlessness. Like all long-duration station crew members, all three men spent about two hours per day exercising to stay in the best shape possible. Even so, Rubio said it likely will take them several months to get their land legs back. Outgoing space station commander Sergei Prokopyev hands over command of the International Space Station to European Space Agency astronaut Andreas Mogensen. along with a symbolic key to the lab complex, during a brief ceremony on Sept. 26, 2023. Prokopyev, Dmitri Petelin and NASA astronaut Frank Rubio (all three wearing black shirts, Rubio at left) have spent a U.S. record 371 days in space. / Credit: NASA Television "Your vestibular system is probably the most affected," he said. "And then after that, really, it's a couple of months to regain your strength. Our trainers do a great job of keeping us in shape up here. But the reality is we're not standing, we're not walking, we're not bearing our own weight. "And so it just takes some time to get your bones and your muscles used to doing that consistently back on Earth. So it'll be anywhere from two to six months before I essentially say that I feel normal." The late cosmonaut Valery Polyakov holds the world record for the longest single spaceflight, a 438-day stay aboard the Russian Mir space station in 1994-95. Prokopyev, Petelin and Rubio will move to No. 3 on the list, just behind retired cosmonaut Sergei Avdeyev, who logged a 380-day stint aboard Mir in 1998-99. The longest previous U.S. flight was carried out by Mark Vande Hei, who spent 355 days aboard the International Space Station in 2021-22. After initial medical checks at the landing site, the Soyuz crew was to be flown by helicopter to the city of Karaganda, where Rubio will board a NASA Gulfstream jet for the long flight back to the Johnson Space Center in Houston. The cosmonauts will be flown to Star City near Moscow aboard a Russian jet. When Rubio and his cosmonaut crewmates launched on Sept. 21, 2022, they expected to spend six months aboard the International Space Station, the normal tour of duty for a long-duration crew. But a coolant leak disabled their Soyuz MS-22/68S ferry ship last December, prompting the Russians to launch a replacement -- Soyuz MS-23/69S -- last February. That meant Prokopyev, Petelin and Rubio had to stay aloft an additional six months to put the Russian crew-rotation schedule back on track. "On a personal level, it was pretty tough, just because I was missing my family and I knew I was going to miss some pretty big milestones, for my kids, especially," Rubio said in an interview from orbit with The Associated Press. "Birthdays, anniversaries, my son's going to head off to college this year, my oldest daughter is finishing up her first year of college," he added. "We've tried really hard to stay in touch with one another. ... My wife, my kids, they've been troopers, and they've really handled it incredibly well. "And how well they've handled it has made it easier for me to just focus on work and make do with with the hand we've been dealt." During a brief change-of-command ceremony Tuesday, ISS Expedition 69 commander Prokopyev turned the lab over to European Space Agency astronaut Andreas Mogensen. Speaking to the departing crew members, Mogensen offered congratulations, saying, "You have shown resilience, professionalism and grace in the face of unexpected challenges and significant uncertainty." "It's one thing to launch to space, knowing that you're going to be up here for a year," he added. "It's a completely different thing for you and your families to find out towards the end of your six-month mission that you're going to be spending an additional six months in space. But you took it upon your shoulders, and you excelled." He thanked Prokopyev, Petelin and Rubio for their "competence, dedication and hard work" keeping the station shipshape and "setting us up for success" in ISS Expedition 70. "We hope to leave the space station is as good as condition as we found it," Mogensen concluded. "No one deserves to go home to their families more than you." Prokopyev, Petelin and Rubio were replaced by Soyuz MS-24/70S commander Oleg Kononenko, flight engineer Nicolai Chub and NASA astronaut Loral O'Hara, who arrived at the space station on Sept. 15. Mogensen flew to the station on Aug. 26 aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft along with NASA's Jasmin Moghbeli, Japanese astronaut Satoshi Furukawa and cosmonaut Konstantin Borisov. North Korea says it will expel Travis King, U.S. soldier who ran across border Arrest warrent issued for suspect in killing of 26-year-old Baltimore tech CEO Newest car theft threat: carhackers OSIRIS-REx's asteroid-sample canister just creaked open for the first time in more than seven years. Scientists at NASA's Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston lifted the canister's outer lid on Tuesday (Sept. 26), two days after OSIRIS-REx's return capsule landed in the desert of northern Utah. "Scientists gasped as the lid was lifted," NASA's Astromaterials Research and Exploration Science (ARES) division, which is based at JSC, wrote Tuesday in a post on X (formerly Twitter). The operation revealed "dark powder and sand-sized particles on the inside of the lid and base," they added. Related: NASA's OSIRIS-REx lands samples of asteroid Bennu on Earth after historic 4-billion-mile journey a metallic canister sits in a white-walled laboratory. OSIRIS-REx's asteroid sample canister, with its outer lid lifted, at a newly built curation facility at Johnson Space Center in Houston. (Image credit: NASA) That powder once resided on the surface of an asteroid named Bennu, the focus of the OSIRIS-REx mission. OSIRIS-REx launched toward the 1,650-foot-wide (500 meters) Bennu in September 2016, arrived in December 2018 and snagged a hefty sample from the space rock in October 2020 using its Touch-and-Go Sample Acquisition Mechanism, or TAGSAM. The asteroid material landed in Utah inside OSIRIS-REx's return capsule on Sunday (Sept. 24), then made its way to Houston by plane on Monday (Sept. 25). It will be stored and curated at JSC, where the team will oversee its distribution to scientists around the world. Researchers will study the sample for decades to come, seeking insights about the the solar system's formation and early evolution, as well as the role that carbon-rich asteroids like Bennu may have played in seeding Earth with the building blocks of life. RELATED STORIES: How asteroid Bennu caught NASA's OSIRIS-REx spacecraft by surprise and nearly killed it along the way No, the OSIRIS-REx probe will not bring back asteroid space 'germs' Dramatic sampling shows asteroid Bennu is nothing like scientists expected But that work isn't ready to begin; the ARES team hasn't even accessed the main asteroid sample yet. Doing so requires disassembly of the TAGSAM apparatus, an intricate operation that will take considerable time. "There is a very high level of focus from the team the sample will be revealed with an amazing amount of precision to accommodate delicate hardware removal so as not to come into contact with the sample inside," JSC officials wrote in a blog post on Tuesday. And speaking of reveals: NASA will unveil the Bennu sample on Oct. 11 at 11 a.m. EDT (1500 GMT), during a webcast event that you can watch here on Space.com. [Source] Former U.N. ambassador and South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley emerged as the only Republican presidential candidate who can decisively beat Joe Biden in 2024, a new poll shows. Results: Haley, 51, struck a commanding 49% against Bidens 43%, according to the CNN/SSRS poll released today. This is the only result to exceed the margin of error. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump received 47% to Bidens 46%; former Vice President Mike Pence and Sen. Tim Scott both received 46% to Bidens 44% and New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie received 44% to Bidens 42%. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis tied with Biden at 47%, while entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy trailed Bidens 46% at 45%. Why this matters: Haley, the only woman and one of three Indian Americans running for the GOP nomination, has positioned herself as the biggest threat to Democrats in the general election. A senior Democratic strategist close to the Biden campaign also told Politico that If they nominate Nikki Haley, were in trouble. More from NextShark: San Francisco rally commemorates first anniversary of Vicha Ratanapakdee mural With policies that resonate to more moderate voters, Haleys numbers have reportedly surged since the first Republican primary debate last month. For starters, a Washington Post/FiveThirtyEight/Ipsos survey showed that after her performance, 46% of Republican primary voters said they would vote for her, up from just 29% before the event. Primary polling: Republican primary polling, however, still shows Trump at the top of the pack. As of press time, the latest RealClearPolitics aggregate shows the former president as having a 38.7-point lead over DeSantis, the only other GOP candidate reaping double digits. More from NextShark: Woman charged with hate crime for stabbing Asian teen in the head on Indiana bus The big picture: Haley faces an uphill battle to win the GOP nomination, but the primaries are still months away. Go ahead and underestimate me, thatll be fun, she wrote on X last month. Ken Farnaso, Haleys campaign spokesperson, welcomed the latest polling on X today: More from NextShark: Woman arrested for fatally stabbing her parents in South Korea says a ghost told me to do it Tampa City Council member Luis Viera wants to boost voter turnout by moving the citys election date. On Thursday, he learned the turnout from other City Council members would be against him. During a council workshop, Viera was the only unequivocal supporter of switching the citys municipal elections from spring in odd-number years to November in even-number years. A move would let city races parallel general elections for state and federal offices. The principle that I operate under is that we want more people voting, said Viera. The April 25 runoff election for the City Council drew ballots from less than 26,000 voters or 10.76% of the citys more than 240,000 registered voters. The March primary election, featuring multiple high-profile races for City Council, didnt generate much excitement, either. It drew a 13.65% turnout or participation from fewer than 33,000 voters. Voter turnout in all of Hillsborough County in the November 2020 presidential election was nearly 77%, and turnout in the November 2022 gubernatorial election was 52.4%. The drop in municipal election participation is most notable among minority districts, said Viera. Our system promotes a voting pool that does not look like Tampa, he said. And the $543,000 cost to the city for the 2023 elections translated to $9 for every vote. It literally would have been cheaper to buy every voter a sandwich on election day than have an election, said Tampa attorney Matt Newton, an advocate for changing the election date. St. Petersburg voters approved a change in their municipal election date in a 2022 referendum. The November 2021 election, in which voters selected Ken Welch as mayor, drew a little over 67,000 people to the ballot box, or a 36% turnout. A year later, more than 100,000 people weighed in on the charter change, with 70% of the voters approving moving the city elections to even-numbered years. Vieras colleagues, however, didnt share his enthusiasm. I am very opposed to this, said council member Bill Carlson. Were never going to break through the noise, council member Alan Clendenin said about sharing the election season with candidates for state and federal offices. Council member Charlie Miranda similarly questioned the benefit of having local candidates on the lower portion of the ballot in a November election instead of at the top of a spring ballot. Council chairperson Guido Maniscalco said he, too, was concerned about the proposal. Viera retreated from his original pitch to further explore the election day switch. He eventually asked for a future workshop to discuss all ideas on how to increase voter participation in municipal elections. The council voted 7-0 to have that discussion in April 2024. This story has been updated to correct the attribution and quote about the cost of holding the 2023 city elections in Tampa. A late-night power outage delayed flights to the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport on Wednesday night. According to PG&Es outage map, 335 customers in the area of Buckley Road in San Luis Obispo were without power due to an electrical outage as of 11 p.m. That outage area included the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport. Two United Airlines flights from Los Angeles and San Francisco which were originally scheduled to arrive in San Luis Obispo on Wednesday night were delayed until Thursday morning due to the outage, according to Uniteds online flight status tracker. Your flight has been delayed until 7 a.m. on Sept. 28 because of a power outage at San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, the airline said in an announcement for the Los Angeles to SLO flight. Were sorry for this disruption to your travel plans. The San Francisco to SLO flight was delayed until 7:46 a.m, according to the tracker. As of 11 p.m., PG&E was assessing the cause of the outage. Power was expected to be restored by 12:45 a.m. [Source] During the second GOP debate on Wednesday night, Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley criticized her fellow candidate Vivek Ramaswamy for his stance on TikTok. Ramaswamys stance: Ramaswamy, who had previously criticized TikTok, explained his decision to join the platform as a means of reaching young Americans despite the app being banned on government-issued devices due to concerns about its ties to the Chinese government. Part of how we win elections is reaching the next generation of young Americans where we are, Ramaswamy said, adding that he believes children under 16 should be banned from addictive social media. Haleys response: Haley expressed concern about the apps potential risks due to its ties to the Chinese government. She asserted that trust could not be placed in TikTok and advocated for its exclusion from children's lives, leading to a heated exchange between the two candidates. More from NextShark: Asian women in tech experience more workplace discrimination than their white peers, new study says This is infuriating, because TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media apps that we could have. Honestly, every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber for what you say, Haley told Ramaswamy during the debate. "One hundred fifty million people are on TikTok. That means they can get your contacts, they can get your financial information, they can get your emails, they can get your text messages, they can get all of these things. China knows exactly what theyre doing. We cant trust you. We cant trust you. We cant have TikTok in our kids lives. We need to ban it." TikTok bans: The debate occurred amid ongoing discussions about whether TikTok should be banned in the U.S. over fears of data sharing with the Chinese government. More than 30 states have already banned TikTok on state-owned devices over security concerns. More from NextShark: Student develops penis simulator that doctor can use for prosthetic surgery training Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark! Asian Americans get big midterm wins but still underrepresented in politics A Chinese unmanned Mars mission has successfully mapped the entirety of the Red Planet [Source] A new poll finds Nikki Haley is the best Republican candidate to beat Joe Biden for the White House, especially among independent voters. Poll result: Haley, 51, led the sitting president by two points (40% to 38%) in the latest poll by J.L. Partners for the Daily Mail, which surveyed 1,000 likely voters from Sept. 15 to Sept. 20. Former President Donald Trump, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott all bested Biden by one point, while entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and former Vice President Mike Pence both lost to Biden by three and eight points, respectively. Independent edge: Haleys advantage was most prominent among independent voters. Amongst this group, she beat Biden by 19 points, the widest margin across the GOP pool. Scott and DeSantis followed with 16- and 10-point leads, respectively. Meanwhile, Trump and Pence both led Biden by just two points. Beating Biden: The new poll supports Haleys positioning of herself as the best Republican to defeat Joe Biden in a general election. Earlier this month, a CNN/SSRS poll also showed that the former U.N. ambassador and South Carolina governor is the only GOP candidate to unseat Biden outside the margin of error. More from NextShark: Jessi signs with Jay Park's label More Vision Bidens own campaign is reportedly worried about Haley. In August, a senior Democratic strategist close to the team told Politico, If they nominate Nikki Haley, were in trouble. Haleys appeal to independents is often attributed to her more moderate policies that resonate with voters looking for an alternative to Donald Trump. She told Fox News earlier this year: [Democrats] know that I am the biggest threat that liberals have ever seen and theyre scared about it. The big picture: While Haley has seen her poll numbers increase since the first GOP debate, Trump remains the top presidential candidate among Republican primary voters. Still, Haley has now emerged as a clear contender for second place, according to another new poll out of New Hampshire. More from NextShark: Woman Filmed Hurling Anti-Asian Comments in a Metro Vancouver Park More donors are also expected to support Haley. Reuters reportedly spoke to four donors and one source close to a major donor who are all keen on donating should her campaign continue to strengthen. The Hill, MSNBC and The Washington Post all declared Haley as winner of the second GOP debate. One of her most memorable moments of the night was when she took down Ramaswamy for his TikTok stance, saying, Every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber for what you say. More from NextShark: Hong Kong billionaire Calvin Lo reveals why he has no plans to invest in crypto Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark! Sex Workers to Get Part of $1 Trillion Stimulus Package in Japan Nikki Haley finally snapped at Vivek Ramaswamy during the Republican debate Wednesday night. Ramaswamy warned about the dangers of social media but also said he was trying to connect with younger voters through TikTok. Ramaswamy joined TikTok two weeks ago, just days after he referred to the app as digital fentanyl. Haley tore into him for his flipand for his talking points in general. Honestly, every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber for what you say, she said. She described TikTok as one of the most dangerous social media apps and called Ramaswamy untrustworthy. But before you give her too much credit: Haleys attack on Ramaswamy is particularly ironic considering the highly complimentary blurb she wrote for his book Woke, Inc., which was published in 2021. Republicans love to hate on TikTok, warning that the Chinese-owned app is a threat to national security and data privacy. But the app is still hugely popular among young people. Restricting TikTok in any way could actually backfire on lawmakers and alienate younger voters. Nikki Haley didnt hold back when going after Vivek Ramaswamy in Wednesdays second GOP debate, flaming her fellow presidential hopeful for having a TikTok account despite its ties to China. In response to a question on why he joined the social platform after a dinner with the influencer Jake Paul, Ramaswamy explained that posting to TikTok was necessary to reach young voters and win back the White House. Haley scoffed at the response and unleashed on Ramaswamy in a rant. This is infuriating because TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media apps that we could have and, honestly, every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber for what you say, she quipped. The fiery comment drew some oohs and ahhs from the crowd with some applause as Haley continued to explain what she perceives as imminent dangers with TikToks data-gathering policies. Ramaswamy interrupted and implored Haley to not sling personal insultsasking her to instead debate policy straight-up. I think we will be better served as a Republican party if we are not sitting here hurling personal insults and actually have a legitimate debate about policy following Reagans example and in his honor, he said. And the answer is, that is what actually makes our country strong and I believe in these people. I believe in these people on this stage, theyre good people, but lets have a legitimate discussion. The bad blood between Ramaswamy has been simmering for weeks, with the two going after each other in the first GOP debate. The presidential hopefuls relationship hasnt always been so sour, however. Haley once gave a raving review of Ramaswamys book, Woke, Inc.: Inside Corporate America's Social Justice Scam, which published in 2021. GOP Candidates Try to Turn Race on Its Head, Fail Miserably Vivek speaks the truth without fear: woke identity politics is dividing and weakening America at every level, Haley wrote. He urges us to lift up all Americans, rather than to pit ourselves against one another. His combination of honesty, intellect, and foresight are exactly what we need to overcome our challenges in the years ahead. Ramaswamy mustve been a fan of the comment. He placed the tidbit on the back of his latest book, Capital Punishment, which published this year. 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. BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- As agreed between China and Germany, the third China-Germany High-level Financial Dialogue will be held in Germany on Oct. 1, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning announced on Thursday. He Lifeng, vice premier of the State Council and the Chinese lead person of the dialogue will co-chair the dialogue with Christian Lindner, federal minister of finance and the German lead person of the dialogue, Mao said. Donald Trump did not speak to a roomful of striking Detroit autoworkers Wednesday night. He didnt speak in Detroit, even. And he definitely didnt speak at a unionized automaker. The former president did speak at Drake Enterprises, a small non-union company outside Detroit, where he repeatedly bashed union leadership and argued United Auto Workers members had their priorities backward. Reading news coverage of the event, though, might tell you otherwise. One Politico newsletter, for example, initially stated in its first paragraph that Trump would be addressing striking auto workers. Then it changed, saying his audience was simply auto workers. ABC News reported on Tuesday that Trump would skip the Republican presidential debate to instead court unionized employees with remarks outside Detroit. And The New York Times reported Wednesday that Trump was traveling to Detroit to interject himself into the United Auto Workers strike as part of a story that made no mention of the fact that his actual speaking venue was a non-union workplace. Both ABC News and the Times later published stories clarifying Trumps non-union venue. But a question remains: What happened? As Sarah Jones wrote in New York Magazine: The press fell for Trumps lies. Or they fell for his unnamed sources. In particular, the misdirection that appears to have started a week ago, when several outlets reported incorrectly, in the end that Trump would address striking autoworkers. A New York Times headline on Sept. 18 first reported that Trump was set to Woo Striking Union Members in Detroit rather than attend the second Republican presidential debate. The story, citing two anonymous Trump advisers with knowledge of the plans, stated that the candidate would deliver a prime-time speech before current and former union members. A Times spokesperson, Charlie Stadtlander, noted that a photo caption on the story had been corrected it initially said Trump planned on addressing an audience of more than 500 union workers, rather than simply workers. But Stadtlander said the paper stood behind its reporting, adding, It remains accurate to call the visit an attempt to woo striking auto workers. Former President Donald Trump arrives for a campaign stop at Drake Enterprises, an automotive parts manufacturer, on Wednesday. Former President Donald Trump arrives for a campaign stop at Drake Enterprises, an automotive parts manufacturer, on Wednesday. Similar reports, all citing anonymous sources, followed. NPR reported that Trump would join striking union autoworkers. The Associated Press said he would meet with striking autoworkers. The Washington Post said he was planning to give a speech to union workers. In a story republished on CBS Detroit, another AP story told readers that Trump would visit striking autoworkers in Michigan. The examples go on. A few days after the initial swell of coverage, Trump claimed on Truth Social that Crooked Joe Biden had no intention of going to visit the United Autoworkers, until I announced that I would be heading to Michigan to be with them, & help then out. Some media critics smelled something fishy from the start. Losing my mind here. This opening paragraph [of the NPR story] is not true! Adam H. Johnson, co-host of the Citations Needed podcast, wrote last week on X, formerly known as Twitter. Trump is not joining striking autoworkers. The UAW has formally rejected him and NYT reports a picket visit is unlikely. Its just a vaguely adjacent campaign rally! I feel crazy, commented Jack Mirkinson, an acting senior editor at The Nation, in response to the Times article that failed to mention Trump would be speaking at a non-union shop. Its not clear how many striking UAW workers were present, though no outlet that was there could find more than a small handful. I havent seen anybody yet, Scott Malefant, a UAW member, told NBC News, referring to his union peers. Im sure there might be a few. Politico reported that there were at least four UAW members in the crowd. Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung insisted in an email that the former president did meet and speak to various union members, and that UAW members (including those on strike), former members, and other union members like plumbers, pipe-fitters, electricians, and other autoworkers, were present. There was also ample evidence of Trump spin: Multiplereports from the event established that people in the crowd were carrying union members for Trump and Autoworkers for Trump signs when they were not, in fact, union workers or autoworkers. Still, Trump got the photo-op he wanted. The Times photographer Doug Mills, posting a photo of Trump shaking hands at the Drake Enterprises event, captioned the image, .@realDonaldTrump greets union members at Drake Enterprises in Clinton Township Michigan. Mills eventually corrected the error, but not until after Trump had plastered the photo and caption atop his Truth Social profile. Related... SACRAMENTO, Calif. California insurance commissioner used to be a stable bolthole for ambitious politicians waiting for a plum statewide position to open up. But catastrophic wildfires fueled in part by drought and rising temperatures have thrust the insurance department to the front line of climate politics. Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara , who was elected to the position in 2019 as a former state lawmaker with national ambitions, is finding himself in a no-win situation as he tries to prevent insurance companies from fleeing the state. I think when Commissioner Lara ran he was sort of like, 'This is like lieutenant governor, but with more stuff to do,' said Michael Wara, whos consulted with the state Senate and state energy regulators on wildfire and utility policy and directs Stanford University's climate program. I don't think anybody thinks about it that way anymore. Seven of the states twelve top insurers have pulled back from the California market since Lara took office in 2019. The property insurer of last resort in the state, the FAIR Plan, has more than doubled in the same time frame to 270,000 property owners. Lara announced last week he would allow insurers to increase rates in exchange for promising theyll stay in the state a tradeoff meant to stem cherry-picking by insurers that has left people in fire-prone areas with little to no coverage options. He argued the magnitude of the threat to property owners necessitated the most significant changes to the state's insurance market since 1988, when voters turned the insurance commissioner into an elected position and gave it authority over rates. We will never face this array of challenges and all of them at the same time, Lara said during the announcement last week. Whether the plan will work is an open question. The development of new rules is expected to take more than a year. A voter backlash is also possible given that California residents have benefited from some of the countrys lowest property insurance rates for decades. Lara had first sought political cover from lawmakers, who tried and failed to reach a deal by the end of the legislative session. Then Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order on the same day as Lara's announcement directing the insurance department to come up with a plan. Lara, who won reelection in 2022, will term out in three years. Hes said to be eyeing his next move, including a potential run for Los Angeles County supervisor. Others who are interested in succeeding him are looking on warily. Sen. Mike McGuire (D-Healdsburg), who opened a campaign account last year to run for insurance commissioner in 2026, said he wasn't convinced the changes would stabilize the market. In a statement, McGuire said a wait and verify approach is definitely needed. Its clear theres more work still ahead to stabilize the market here in the Golden State, and ensure our neighbors have access to affordable insurance policies that actually protect their dwellings, he said. Past insurance commissioners say it was a tough role even before California suffered precedent-shattering wildfire losses in 2018 that started the exodus of insurers. It was a brawl every day, said Rep. John Garamendi (D-Calif.), who served two separate turns as insurance commissioner in the 1990s and 2000s before serving as deputy Interior secretary in the Clinton administration, lieutenant governor and eventually congressmember. I'd wake up in the morning and my wife would say, It's eight o'clock and you haven't been sued by an insurance company; why aren't you working?" Lara has struggled to balance the tension between insurers and consumer protections. Early in his tenure, he accepted tens of thousands of dollars in political contributions from people with ties to the industry he regulates, breaking a campaign vow. The seeming coziness with the industry led to an investigation by the California Fair Political Practices Commission and continued attacks from Consumer Watchdog, an advocacy group, whose leader is warning he may endorse Lara's opponent in whatever future races he might run. Lara has unfortunately been a very big disappointment, said Jamie Court, Consumer Watchdogs president. We will watch him and if we think he's stepping outside of his lines or boundaries we will take him to court, and hopefully, we'll rein him in. Lara who has declined interview requests for the past two months didn't respond to a request for comment. A spokesperson for the department pointed to his other moves, including restricting insurers from dropping customers in areas recently affected by wildfires and requiring them to give discounts to homeowners who make their properties more fire-resistant. Lara is likely to leave office before his pricing reforms fully take effect. Once the new rules are approved, insurers will still have to incorporate them into rates. That leaves the next insurance commissioner to inherit a growing crisis in which nearly all the proposed solutions are likely to cost consumers. On its surface, its not a very winning message to put forward, unless you have everybody on the same page helping to explain that, said Byron Tucker, a longtime communications aide to insurance commissioners who recently retired. His recommendation to those considering a bid for the position: Make friends. Chris Cadelago contributed to this report. On Monday morning, Sept. 25, students at the University of Kentucky were met with protesters from a Christian organization in front of their main class building. These individuals were displaying, and vocalizing, messages that any passerby would have deemed offensive and startling. Some of these messages consisted of comparing women to property, and even comments that some women were dressing in a way that was warranting of sexual assault. This is no doubt a troubling scene to be presented with on your college campus, and even in the case of some students, your home. The two speakers caused students to begin to crowd around them in an attempt to shout down their viewpoints. However, this was not the end. As in many cases involving unwanted speech on college campuses, this even turned violent, with the speaker and a student engaged in a physical altercation that had to be stopped by campus police. This garners the question, is this allowed on campus? Under the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, these speakers, and all provocative and unwanted speakers that attend campus fall into the category of protected free speech. The University of Kentucky is a public university that must adhere to state and federal law when it comes to this issue. The speakers being a member of the public rather than students does not interfere with this protection. Students, in turn may counter-protest them by gathering to offer different views that diametrically oppose those of the offensive speakers. The important part to note is that speech that makes one uncomfortable, and even blatant hate speech, is protected under the First Amendment. For this reason, the groups that have been deemed hate groups by students, are not breaking any laws by bringing their views to campus. Following the incident, as well as the incidents that proceeded it in my time at the university, students began to question why this was allowed. Not only this, but they began to question why more is not done to stop these individuals from coming on campus in the first place. Some even go as far as pointing out that the hateful rhetoric brought to campus by these groups can be traumatizing and overtly offensive to some in our campus community. This is an opinion that I also share. I do not think you could observe these groups, or the abortion groups, or the God Hates Gays groups and not be upset in some way due to their aggressive language. However, there is a reason why I do not support the banning of these groups from campus. One need only take a brief look around the country to see a possible end to the banning of groups we find offensive from our campuses. We are living in an age of book bans, drag bans, legislation that bans the teaching and showing of sexuality in schools across the nation. These are also all issues that, per the Constitution, many would deem protected under the First Amendment. It was not so long ago that the nation decried offensive, and vulgar to basic LGBTQ+ rights, womens sexual liberation, and even interracial marriage. We in some groups view these issues as core building blocks to progressive, equal rights in our country. However, if we move to ban rhetoric and speakers we find offensive as progressives, what is to stop others from using our same thoughts against us and ban our speech for the same? All in all, the best way to secure the promise of the First Amendment is consistency, from campus hate preachers, LGBTQ+ groups on campus, to BLM protests. It is vital that the amendments promised to some of us, are enshrined for all of us. We cannot have healthy debate, transfer of ideas, and growth, without being able to voice our opinions without fear of censorship from those that disagree with us. The Founders knew this, and we must uphold it. Gavin Cooper is a junior at the University of Kentucky studying community development and political science. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is just around the corner, but some local groups are getting a head start. NoDa Brewing Company and Charlotte Radiology are hosting their annual Pink Pint Night in an attempt to raise funds for mammogram screenings for uninsured women through Levine Cancer Insitutes Project PINK. ALSO READ: Scary: Breast cancer survivor and doctor says early detection was key The money raised will be used to fund the programs mobile breast center, which offers free screenings in underserved communities where the need is highest. One dollar from every pint of Gose Pink sold will go to Project PINK. An online auction will also be held, where all funds raised will benefit Project Pink. The event will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday at the North End taproom on West 32nd Street. (WATCH BELOW: Daughters diagnosis leads to mothers breast cancer discovery) North Korea is continuing arms negotiations with Russia and intends to strike a deal soon, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters on Sept. 27. We have spoken on this a number of times and warned that an arms discussion between Russia and the DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) almost certainly continued during Kim Jong Un s trip to Russia and we believe that they continue in the aftermath of that trip and converging the military relationship between Russia and the DPRK, he said. Western allies such as Japan and South Korea fear Russia will transfer advanced ballistic missile technology to North Korea. The G7 has threatened aggressive sanctions on both pariah states in response to the negotiations. Earlier on Sept. 13, Russian President Vladimir Putin met North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia's far-eastern Amur Oblast for official talks largely understood to be about weapons transfers. White House national security advisor revealed specific sanctions targeting Russia and North Korea in response to the talks. We have also imposed specific targeted sanctions to try to disrupt any effort to use North Korea as a conduit or as a source for weapons going to Russia, a U.S. official told CNN. North Korea has long sought to improve its satellite launching and nuclear submarine technology which would greatly advance Pyongyangs capabilities in the region. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov plans to visit Pyongyang next month, Ukrinform reported, citing a local South Korean news agency. Read also: Kim Jong Un praises Russias war, toasts to future victory Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un called for an increase in nuclear weapons production in his country to counter a new Cold War, with the United States, state media reported Thursday according to The Associated Press. Kim led the countrys national assembly in a two-day session this week, where it amended the constitution to add his demands for more nuclear weapons, state media reported. The remarks come two weeks after Kim met with Russian President Vladimir Putin , sparking worries in Western countries that North Korea and Russia could be negotiating an arms deal. Warming ties between the two countries have concerned U.S. officials, and the rumored arms deal negotiations come as the North ramps up its missile testing programs. In that meeting, Kim backed Russias invasion of Ukraine, calling it a just fight. Defense analysts said that an arms deal would likely exchange North Korean small arms and ammunition for Russian advanced satellite and missile technologies. North Koreas nuclear force-building policy has been made permanent as the basic law of the state, which no one is allowed to flout with anything, Kim said in a speech to the assembly. He also stressed the need to push ahead with the work for exponentially boosting the production of nuclear weapons and diversifying the nuclear strike means, according to state media. Kim added that South Korea and Japan were teaming up with the U.S. to make an Asian version of NATO, the root cause of war and aggression. This is just the worst actual threat, not threatening rhetoric or an imaginary entity, he said. Kim urged his diplomats to further promote solidarity with the nations standing against the U.S. and the Wests strategy for hegemony. North Korea has tested more than 100 missiles since the start of last year, while the U.S. has responded by strengthening ties with South Korea with military drills and other support. The Associated Press contributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A U.S. soldier who illegally crossed the border into North Korea this summer has been released to U.S. custody. Travis King, whose unauthorized entry into North Korean territory created a diplomatic crisis, was expelled from the country and delivered to United States officials on Wednesday after spending over two months in the reclusive country. The international drama concerning 23-year-old Army Private 2nd Class Travis King began on July 18 when King intentionally crossed the heavily militarized border between South and North Korea. King had been stationed in South Korea, which has maintained a heavy U.S. military presence since the 1950-1953 Korean War, but was set to be flown back to the U.S. to face disciplinary action from the U.S. Army. Instead, King snuck away from the airport in Seoul and made his way to the Demilitarized Zone between the two Koreas, allowing him to cross over to the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea, as North Korea is officially known. Once there, he was detained by North Korean officials who interrogated him. Eventually, North Korean officials declared King guilty of illegally intruding into the countrys territory and decided to expel him. American officials say that Kings release was the outcome of intense diplomacy that has occurred between a number of countries since the soldier entered North Korean territory. Sweden, which has often played a role as a diplomatic middleperson between the United States and North Korea, helped to negotiate Kings release. Meanwhile, China which borders North Korea and is one of the countrys few allies allowed King to be transferred to its territory en route to his return to the U.S. A senior official in the Biden administration was adamant that the U.S. had not granted any concessions to North Korea in exchange for Kings release. The answer is simple: There were none. Full stop, the official said, according to CNN. A spokesperson for Claudine Gates, Kings mother, said in a statement that she will be forever grateful to the United States Army and all its interagency partners for a job well done and asked for privacy for their family. The reasons for Kings decision to flee to North Korea have not been clear. Many have speculated that he was attempting to escape disciplinary action related to two offenses he allegedly committed in South Korea in 2022. In September 2022, King was accused of punching a man outside a club several times, according to court documents, per the New York Post. A few weeks later, King was arrested for another altercation and damaged a police patrol car as he was taken into custody, according to court documents. King pleaded guilty to both charges, per the Post. He was fined by South Korean officials and held in military detention over the incidents, and he was getting ready to be sent back to the U.S. when he escaped into North Korea. North Korean officials, meanwhile, painted Kings actions as a plea for asylum. An August statement released by North Koreas official news agency said that King confessed that he had decided to come over to the DPRK as he harbored ill feelings against inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination within the U.S. Army. The statement added that King was disillusioned at the unequal American society, but did not elaborate on his views or motives. It is unclear what charges, if any, King will face as he returns to the United States. After his long ordeal, however, American officials told CNN that King was very happy to be on his way home. JERUSALEM, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Israel announced Thursday that it had signed a record-breaking 3.5-billion-U.S. dollar agreement with Germany to sell its Arrow-3 hypersonic missile defense system to the European country. The Israeli Defense Ministry said in a statement that Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius signed the agreement in Berlin on Thursday. The two ministers also signed a joint statement, pledging to enhance bilateral security ties. As part of the deal, Germany has agreed to make an immediate payment of 600 million U.S. dollars, which will be used by Israel to start the production of Arrow-3 batteries for Germany, the statement said. The Arrow-3 is Israel's most advanced missile defense system and a key component of the country's multi-layered defense doctrine, which also includes the Iron Dome to intercept short-range rockets and David's Sling to block medium-range missiles. In 2022, Israeli arms export deals reached a new record of 12.5 billion U.S. dollars, with over 25 percent of its sales going to Europe, according to Defense Ministry figures. In this photo taken during a two-day session on Sept. 26-27, 2023 and provided by the North Korean government, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un speaks at a meeting of the country's parliament in Pyongyang, North Korea. Independent journalists were not given access to cover the event depicted in this image distributed by the North Korean government. The content of this image is as provided and cannot be independently verified. Korean language watermark on image as provided by source reads: "KCNA" which is the abbreviation for Korean Central News Agency. (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP) SEOUL, South Korea (AP) North Korean leader Kim Jong Un called for an exponential increase in production of nuclear weapons and for his country to play a larger role in a coalition of nations confronting the United States in a new Cold War, state media said Thursday. The Korean Central News Agency said Kim made the comments during a two-day session of the country's rubber-stamp parliament which amended the constitution to include his policy of expanding the country's nuclear weapons program. The Supreme Peoples Assembly's session on Tuesday and Wednesday came after Kim traveled to Russia's Far East this month to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin and visit military and technology sites. The trip sparked Western concerns about a possible arms alliance in which North Korea would supply Putin with badly needed munitions to fuel his war on Ukraine in exchange for economic aid and advanced Russian technologies to enhance North Korea's nuclear and missile systems. As North Korea slowly ends its pandemic lockdown, Kim has been actively boosting his partnerships with Moscow and Beijing as he attempts to break out of diplomatic isolation and join a united front against Washington. He has described the world as entering a new Cold War and that North Korea should advance its nuclear capabilities in response. KCNAs reports on Kims comments came a day after North Korea c onfirmed the release of U.S. Army Pvt. Travis King, who is now being flown back to America, two months after he sprinted across the heavily fortified border into the North. Kings relatively swift expulsion defied speculation that North Korea might drag out his detention to squeeze concessions from the United States, and possibly reflected the North's disinterest in diplomacy with Washington. KCNA said members of the assembly gave unanimous approval to a new clause in the constitution to ensure the countrys right to existence and development, deter war and protect regional and global peace by rapidly developing nuclear weapons to a higher level. North Korea's "nuclear force-building policy has been made permanent as the basic law of the state, which no one is allowed to flout with anything, Kim said in a speech at the assembly. He stressed the need to push ahead with the work for exponentially boosting the production of nuclear weapons and diversifying the nuclear strike means, KCNA said. Kim pointed to what he described as a growing threat posed by a hostile United States and its expanding military cooperation with South Korea and Japan, accusing them of creating the Asian version of NATO, the root cause of war and aggression. This is just the worst actual threat, not threatening rhetoric or an imaginary entity, he said. Kim urged his diplomats to further promote solidarity with the nations standing against the U.S. and the Wests strategy for hegemony. South Korea's Unification Ministry, which handles relations with North Korea, said the North Korean constitutional amendment confirms Kim's unwillingness to relinquish his nuclear weapons program and his unwavering commitment to advancing that arsenal. It said in a statement that South Korea will continue to expand its military cooperation with the U.S. and Japan and work closer with other international partners to increase pressure on North Korea to abandon its nuclear ambitions. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are at their highest level in years as North Korea has test-fired more than 100 missiles since the start of 2022 and the U.S. has expanded its military exercises with its Asian allies, in tit-for-tat responses. Last year, the assembly passed a new nuclear doctrine into law which authorizes pre-emptive nuclear strikes if North Korea's leadership is perceived as under threat. MEMPHIS, Tenn. A shooting in North Memphis sent two people to the hospital in critical condition Wednesday night. Memphis Police responded to a shooting at 1420 Jackson Avenue at 9:37 p.m. Two victims were found at a home nearby. Police say one of the victims was taken to Regional One in critical condition. The second victim was transported in non-critical condition. If you have any information that can help investigators, call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. Norway's data protection authority has asked a European Union regulator to take a binding decision on whether its emergency sanction on Facebook and Instagram tracking and profiling users for ad targeting without their consent should be made permanent and applied across the EU single market, not just locally. The move could lead to a blanket ban on Meta running tracking ads without consent across the EU single market if the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) agrees the action is merited. Meta may also switch to asking users for their permission to run "personalized ads" before any Board action, as it has claimed it intends to. The Datatilsynet issued a local ban on Meta tracking and profiling users without consent back in July -- using powers in the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) which enable concerned regulators to apply temporary measures (lasting for three months) in their markets if they see an urgent need to act to protect citizens' data. So while Meta's lead regulator for the GDPR remains the Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC), which would normally lead on any enforcement, the Norwegian DPA's emergency action circumvents the regulation's so-called "one-stop-shop" mechanism -- and gives the Norwegian authority the option to refer ongoing concerns to the EDPB, as it has now done. Meta has continued to flout the Datatilsynet order -- which includes a daily fine of up to one million NOK (~$100,000) per day for non-compliance -- ignoring the authority's requirement not to run tracking ads without permission, per a spokesperson for the DPA. The tech giant instead sought a court injunction against the order. However, earlier this month, an Oslo court rejected Meta's arguments, affirming the DPA's right to act. Reached by email the EDPB confirmed receipt of the authority's request. "The EDPB Secretariat will now assess completeness of the file. Once this assessment is complete, the deadline under art. 66(4) GDPR starts running and the Board will have two weeks to adopt its urgent binding decision," a spokeswoman told us. She declined to offer any steer on how long the Board's assessment of the Datatilsynet's request will take to complete. The Board already took one binding decision vis-a-vis Meta ads: Late last year it settled a dispute between DPAs on a complaint against the legal basis the adtech giant claimed for running the ads -- which led on, in January, to a final decision being issued by the DPC rejecting Meta's claim of contractual necessity to justify the processing. Since then Meta tried another switch of legal basis for the processing -- to a claim of legitimate interests -- but the EU's top court quashed that gambit with a ruling in July, related to a separate challenge brought by Germany's competition authority, which confirmed Meta cannot claim a legitimate interest to run its "personalized ads" in the absence of user consent. That landmark strike was followed at the start of August by Meta announcing an "intention" to legalize its tracking ads business in the region by asking users for their permission. But it has still not done so -- continuing to run unlawful ads. Hence why the Norwegian DPA decided to take emergency action -- pointing out that millions of EU people's rights are being infringed. Reached for a response to the DPA's referral the EDPB, Meta spokesperson, Matt Pollard, sought to deflect attention off-of the current lack of compliance -- writing in an emailed statement: We are surprised by the NDPA's [Norwegian data protection authority's] actions, given that Meta has already committed to moving to the legal basis of consent for advertising in the EU/EEA. We remain in active discussions with the relevant data protection authorities on this topic via our lead regulator in the EU, the Irish Data Protection Commission, and will have more to share in due course. Asked when Meta will be moving to a lawful basis for tracking and profiling users in the region Pollard declined to specify a timeframe. "We have not announced a date. We are still working through with policymakers what our transition to Consent will look like, and will have more to share in due course," he added. The referral to the EDPB may concentrate minds at Meta on the need to make good on its pledge to ask users' permission sooner rather than later. The company has sought to get ahead of events on this issue by using PR tactics that present a narrative where it appears to retain some control (hence its blog post sketching a future "intention" to switch to consent, just without fixing a date -- so keeping control of the timings and seeking to normalize the ongoing delay to rectifying its unlawful "personalized ads"); even as EU regulators have, collectively, forced the looming paradigm shift to its privacy-hostile business model. The bottom line here is that, in the not-too-distant future, surveillance capitalism's poster child will -- at least in a major international region for its business -- have to end the consentless tracking and profiling it exploited for years to build up its adtech empire, at the expense of web users' privacy. In the meanwhile, people in the EU's single market are once again being directed to wait on Ireland's DPC to enforce their privacy rights. But if the Irish authority is too slow to rectify Meta's lack of consent this time there is now the backstop option of the Board stepping in a second time and finishing the job for it. Jonathan Muckinhaupt, 29, of Springfield, Massachusetts, was arrested by Norwich Police for charges related to an incident on Sept. 12 where a bounty hunter fired bean bag shotgun rounds into a vehicle in pursuit of a wanted subject. Muckinhaupt is charged with first degree assault, first degree reckless endangerment, unlawful discharge of a firearm, second degree breach of peace, second degree criminal mischief, and risk of injury to a minor, according to a release from the Norwich Police. Muckinhaupt was issued a $25,000 bond, and bonded out shortly after his arrest. His arraignment date is Oct. 12 at Norwich Superior Court, the release states. Jonathan Muckinhaupt is charged with first degree assault, first degree reckless endangerment, unlawful discharge of a firearm, second degree breach of peace, second degree criminal mischief, and risk of injury to a minor, according to a release from the Norwich Police. The man who was shot is Jordan Jay Lanphear. Lanphear drove away after being shot, was later hospitalized, and since released, The Bulletin reported Monday. Jay Lanphears friends and family, including his sister Kayla Lanphear, organized Justice for Jay. A group of them rallied in Howard Brown Park on Sept. 22, arguing that the bounty hunter used excessive force, The Bulletin reported Monday. Family pleased to learn of Muckinhaupt's arrest Kayla Lanphear was pleased to hear about an arrest in the case. Its good to see that the justice system is actually doing the justice, she said. If theres anything to be taken away from this, its to watch out for your family and friends, Kayla Lanphear said. If you feel in your heart and your gut that something is clearly not right, go with it, she said. Dont stop until you get what needs to be done. Id do this for anybody. There will likely be another rally the day of or the day before Muckinhaupt is brought to court, Kayla Lanphear said. Kayla Lanphear, Denice May, and Stephanie Brown got together and held signs supporting Lanphear's brother, Jay. He was shot by a bounty hunter on Sept 12, and his friends and family claim that excessive force was used. He is currently in stable condition. As of Monday, Jay Lanphear has three pending cases between the Danielson and Waterbury courts, listed on the Connecticut Judicial Branch website. The charges without a verdict include violating probation, weapons charges, interfering with an officer, and failure to appear in court. His next court dates are in November. The Bulletin called Norwich Police for more information, but they did not respond before deadline. This article originally appeared on The Bulletin: Norwich Police make arrest in bounty hunter excessive force case By Timothy Gardner WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Nuclear power plants using low-cost electricity to make hydrogen from water, an emerging fuel, could play a role in the energy transition, the head of a U.S. office that distributes billions of dollars in loans for new energy technologies said on Thursday. U.S. nuclear reactors tend to operate full-time because shutting them is expensive and hard on the plants. Some have stored the excess cheap power by using it to pump water supplies to high elevations and generating hydropower when it is released downhill. This process, called pumped hydro, could be replaced by using the cheap nuclear power to run electrolyzers, machines that separate hydrogen from water. The hydrogen could then be used to fuel things like cement plants or, eventually, hydrogen-burning vehicles to cut carbon emissions and curb climate change. "The whole concept of nuclear and hydrogen is one that makes a lot of intellectual sense," Jigar Shah , the director of the Loan Programs Office (LPO) of the U.S. Department of Energy, told Reuters. The two potentially have a "very interesting marriage," Shah said in an interview ahead of the Reuters Events Hydrogen North America conference in Houston from Oct. 11-12. Since December 2001, the LPO has approved about $1.5 billion for two hydrogen projects. Shah said there are about $30 billion worth of U.S. hydrogen projects in the advanced stage that could reach a final investment decision later next year. In addition, there are about $5 billion to $8 billion in hydrogen projects in the pipeline at LPO, he added. Critics of nuclear power say that it is too expensive to make a big difference on climate and that even so-called advanced nuclear power projects could create toxic waste that has to be dealt with. Shah did not specify what kind of projects joining nuclear and hydrogen LPO might consider. But he said most nuclear power plant owners "are very excited about adding hydrogen to their repertoire" and that nuclear power pilot projects being developed in the marketplace could be conjoined with hydrogen. "We hope that the data that comes from those pilot projects gives them the confidence to hit the final investment decisions on a much larger rollout," for hydrogen and nuclear, Shah said. (Reporting by Timothy Gardner; editing by Rami Ayyub) A student allegedly shot dead a teacher and murdered his teenage daughter and her mother during a rampage that ended at a university hospital in Rotterdam on Thursday. The suspect, 32, was wearing a bulletproof vest, combat fatigues and had a gun in his pocket when he was arrested by police at the citys Erasmus University Medical Centre. The shooter began his rampage at a home on Heiman Dullaertplein in the Delfshaven district of the second largest city of the Netherlands. There, he killed a 39-year-old woman and seriously injured her 14-year-old daughter, police chief Fred Westerbeke told reporters. The daughter later died of her injuries in hospital. After the shooting, he allegedly set fire to the property, which is close to where he lives, and went to the university hospital, armed with the firearm and petrol bombs. Medical staff flee the Erasmus MC Rotterdam hospital - Bas Czerwinski/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock There the unnamed suspect allegedly murdered the girls father, a teacher, in a classroom. I was returning from the tram and saw someone lying on the ground in front of the house, a neighbour said. She had blood on her face and meanwhile the flames were beating out of the house. So incredibly sad, she told the De Telegraaf newspaper. The suspects relationship to the family and his motive is unknown. An investigation is under way as to whether he was a pupil of the teacher shot dead. Police officers guard the medical centre - Bas Czerwinski/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Authorities believe that the woman and her daughter were close neighbours of the suspect, leading police to suggest they could have been targeted attacks. Rotterdam mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb was asked if the gunman had been rejected for a course at Erasmus MC at a press conference with police after the arrest. That was a scenario we are taking into account, he said after saying the horrible incident had left emotions in the city very high. It was a black day, he said. Witnesses described panic and screaming at the hospital, when the alleged gunman, dressed in combat gear, opened fire. First there was a shooting on the fourth floor. Four or five shots were fired. Then a molotov cocktail was thrown into the education centre, a medical student, who asked not to be named, told RTL Nieuws. There was a lot of panic and screaming. I was in the hospital. I fled from there to the Sophia Childrens Hospital, one witness told Dutch broadcaster NOS. A 24-year-old woman heard the shots as she began her shift in the back office of the intensive care unit. As her colleagues ran in all directions, she fled to the garage and hid in her car. I am very shocked, it is very intense what happened, she said. It was chaos. Staff take patients out of the hospital building - Bas Czerwinski/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Elite armed police rushed to the hospital, where operations that were already under way continued despite the havoc that began about 2.30pm local time. People fled the building, holding their hands up in the air to show they were unarmed. Panicked medical staff flooded out of the building pushing patients in wheelchairs and on stretchers. Diederik Gommers, an intensive care doctor, told all personnel to lock themselves into their rooms and hide when the shooter was climbing stairs leading from the classroom area. Terrified people taped paper signs reading Room 32. We cant get out! to the windows as armed police searched the building. People taped signs to windows saying: 'We can't get out' - Hollandse Hoogte/Shutterstock The hospital sent out an alert warning people to stay away as a large police operation unfolded. At first, police thought the suspect had fled the scene and issued a description saying he was wearing a backpack and headphones. The emergency only ended when the suspect walked out of the hospital and was immediately captured by the large numbers of officers at the university. The suspect was taken into custody and chief public prosecutor Hugo Hillenaar told reporters the suspect was cooperating with police following his arrest. We cannot say anything about the motive of this terrible act at this time. The probe is still ongoing, Mr Hillenaar said. The suspect was thought to have possessed only one firearm and there is no indication he had accomplices, authorities said. Dr Aleksandra Badura, an associate professor at Erasmus MC and a neuroscientist, said: I never thought Id have to worry about an active shooter in the Netherlands but here we are. Ernst Kuipers, the Dutch health minister, said: In a place where everyone should feel safe, innocent victims fell today. Attacked in a place where people are treated and doctors of the future are trained. We can hardly grasp it. Thanked the emergency services Mr Kuipers was head of the Erasmus MC before becoming a minister in 2021. Mark Rutte, the prime minister, thanked the emergency services who responded to the incident. My thoughts go out to the victims of the violence, their loved ones and to all the people who have been in great fear, he said. King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima said their hearts went out to those suffering intense grief. Rotterdam is often the scene of shootings, usually attributed to score settling by rival drug gangs. In 2019, three people were shot dead on a tram in Utrecht, sparking a huge manhunt. And in 2011, the country was left shocked when 24-year-old Tristan van der Vlis killed six people and wounded 10 others in a rampage at a packed shopping mall. 08:10 PM BST Thank you for following our coverage We are now closing our liveblog. Thank you for following. 08:04 PM BST Erasmus Medical centre reopens after shootings The Erasmus University hospital has been reopened after it was put on lockdown as police searched for the suspect, local authorities said. Visitors had been warned to stay away from the complex, but can now visit patients again. 07:31 PM BST Dutch police say 14-year-old girl injured in shooting has died Dutch police say the 14-year-old girl who was fighting for her life after being injured in the Rotterdam shootings has died. Her death brings the death toll to three. 07:28 PM BST Dutch PM: 'Great dismay' after Rotterdam shootings Mark Rutte, the Dutch prime minister, has described the great dismay after the events in Rotterdam this afternoon. My thoughts go out to the victims of the violence, their loved ones and to all the people who have been in great fear, he wrote on Twitter. He also thanked the emergency services for their response to the shootings. 06:59 PM BST Dutch king and queen express their sympathies to the victims Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima expressed their sympathy to the victims of todays attack on social media. Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the victims of the violence this afternoon in Rotterdam, the royals wrote. We also think of everybody who lived in fear during these terrible actions, they added. 06:46 PM BST Pictured: Police direct bystanders to safety Police direct bystanders to leave the Erasmus University Medical Centre - BAS CZERWINSKI/AFP The hospital was placed on lockdown as armed police searched for the suspect - PIROSCHKA VAN DE WOUW/REUTERS 06:40 PM BST Suspect was known to police The suspect in the Rotterdam hospital shooting was known to police, the citys chief prosecutor has said. The suspect was known to law enforcement and in 2021 he was prosecuted and convicted for animal abuse, said Hugo Hillenaar. Mr Hillenaar told reporters that the suspect was cooperating with police following his arrest. 06:31 PM BST Dutch health minister 'can hardly grasp' the tragic shooting Ernst Kuipers, the Dutch health minister, has said he finds it hard to comprehend the shootings that rocked Rotterdam on Thursday. In a place where everyone should feel safe, innocent victims fell today. Attacked in a place where people are treated and doctors of the future are trained. We can hardly grasp it, he said on Twitter. 06:07 PM BST Suspect was student at university hospital where shooting occurred, police say The suspected gunman was a student at the medical centre where one of Thursdays twin-shootings occurred, Dutch police said. Local police chief Fred Westerbeke told a news conference that a 39-year-old woman and a 42-year-old teacher had been killed during the attacks on two locations. The 14-year-old daughter of the woman was also shot and is seriously injured, he said. 06:00 PM BST At least two killed in twin-shootings: Dutch police At least two people were killed during Thursdays twin-shootings, Dutch police said at a press conference. A 32-year-old suspect was arrested after shots were fired at the Erasmus Medical Center and a nearby residential property. Police said fires had also broken out at both locations, but were subsequently contained. 05:47 PM BST Gunman threw 'molotov cocktail at education centre' amid hospital shooting spree A medical student has told Dutch TV news channel RTL Nieuws that Thursdays gunman threw a molotov cocktail into the Erasmus Medical Centers education centre after an initial shooting spree. First there was a shooting on the fourth floor. Four or five shots were fired. Then a Molotov cocktail was thrown into the education centre, the medical student, who asked not to be named, said. Hospital workers flee the Erasmus Medical Center - Bas Czerwinski/AFP 05:38 PM BST Gun found in Erasmus Medical Center: Report A firearm has been found inside the hospital where one of Thursdays twin-shooting incidents took place, Dutch broadcaster NOS reported. It was unclear whether the weapon had been used by the suspect, NOS reported, adding that police were still examining the gun. 05:33 PM BST Hospital employee hid in her car amid scenes of 'chaos' A member of staff at the Erasmus Medical Center said she was about to begin her shift when she heard gunshots ring out, prompting her to run to the buildings car park and hide in her vehicle. I am very shocked, it is very intense what happened, the 24-year-old woman, who works in the back office of the hospitals intensive care unit, told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf. She said her colleagues had sprinted away in all directions as the shooting started. It was chaos, she added. 05:28 PM BST Footage appears to show police arresting suspected gunman Footage being shared on social media appears to show police arresting the suspected gunman following the twin-shooting incidents at a university hospital and a nearby home. 05:24 PM BST Erasmus Medical Center appeals for people to stay away as police search for victims The Erasmus Medical Center has appealed on social media for people not to go to the hospital following Thursdays shooting. The plea came as local media reported that police had entered the hospital to search for victims. 05:21 PM BST Police erect screens at residential scene of first shooting Police have erected screens at the house where the alleged shooter is suspected of opening fire first before heading to the hospital. An eyewitness spoken to by Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, identified only as Rimmeely, said he was returning from the tram and saw someone lying on the ground in front of the house. So incredibly sad. And that the possible perpetrator went to Erasmus MC after that, terrible, the eyewitness said. 05:17 PM BST 'I never thought I'd have to worry about an active shooter in the Netherlands' A doctor at the Erasmus Medical Center where Thursdays shooting took place has said everyone from her lab had been safely evacuated. I never thought Id have to worry about an active shooter in the Netherlands but here were are, Dr. Aleksandra Badura said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. https://twitter.com/AleksBadura/status/1707414005218738665?s=20 05:14 PM BST Footage shows people streaming out of hospital Footage being shared on social media shows people streaming out of the Erasmus Medical Center as police moved in. 05:11 PM BST Eyewitness describes 'panic and screaming' at hospital Eyewitnesses have described panic and screaming at the Erasmus Medical Center, where a gunman dressed in combat gear opened fire. There was a lot of panic and screaming. I was in the hospital. I fled from there to the Sophia Childrens Hospital, one eyewitness told Dutch broadcaster NOS. 05:05 PM BST Pictures from the scene Police officers from the special intervention service stand outside the Erasmus Medical Center - Bas Czerwinski/EPA-EFE A police officer directs people at the Erasmus Medical Center - Bas Czerwinski/AFP A police officer from the special intervention unit walks on a roof outside the Erasmus Medical Center - Sem Van Der Wal/EPA-EFE 04:56 PM BST Multiple people killed in Rotterdam shootings, police say Police said they were informing victims family members after multiple people were killed in Thursdays shooting. A 32-year-old suspect was arrested after police said on social media that shots had been fired at the Erasmus Medical Center and a nearby home. They also said fires had broken out at both locations. Videos posted online showed police instructing students to run outside as heavily armed arrest teams arrived at the scene. 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. Some 4.7 million women and children nationally, including nearly 200,000 in Michigan, are at risk of losing vitally important food assistance if federal funding measures currently before the U.S. House and Senate are passed. Those bills slash the programs budget by tens of millions of dollars. An impending federal government shutdown could bring the entire program to a grinding halt within days to weeks, officials said. Commonly called WIC, the program provides benefits like grocery money and breastfeeding support for as many as 6.3 million people in the U.S. specifically children under the age of 5 and women who are pregnant or have recently given birth. A federal budget bill needs to be passed by the beginning of the fiscal year, which starts Oct. 1, to avoid a shutdown. A stop-gap budget proposal is awaiting action in Congress. The current proposed federal agriculture spending bill would knock funding levels for WIC, formally known as The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, down by $185 million from the current budget and cut back a 2021 benefit bump that participants were able to use to buy fresh fruits and vegetables. This really is an emergency situation we're facing, said Julie Cassidy, senior policy analyst with the Michigan League for Public Policy. If it is not fully funded, it will absolutely mean more hunger, and the serious health consequences that come with it. A 'lifesaving' program for half of Michigan's babies WIC has been around for almost 50 years and more than 6 million low-income women and young children depend on it for nutritional support, according to the National WIC Association, the education and advocacy arm of the program. Women and children enrolled in WIC can receive nutritious food, nutrition education, breastfeeding support and referrals to health care and other social services. Association advocates say the program enhances access to foods that deliver priority nutrients critical for childrens development, build their foundation for healthy lifelong eating habits and lead to higher academic achievement. Families are eligible for WIC if they have a gross income of no more than 185% of the Federal Poverty Level currently $36,482 for a single person and $55,000 for a family of four and are at nutritional risk. The more than 200,000 mothers, babies and children receiving food through Michigans WIC program every month includes half of the infants born in the state. Research into WICs effectiveness has shown women who participate in WIC tend to have healthier babies with reduced infant mortality and higher mental development scores at age 2. WIC participants are four times more likely to be food secure than eligible people who arent enrolled, and tend to consume more vegetables, fruits and whole grains. The earlier a pregnant woman receives WIC benefits, the more likely she is to seek prenatal care and deliver a normal weight infant, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. The state reports that every dollar spent on WIC saves $3.50 in health care costs. The impacts of a disruption in benefits, or just a more long-term reduction in access to benefits, could be very devastating for people, Cassidy said. We really urge our elected officials in Congress to acknowledge the lifesaving role of WIC in all of our communities and fully fund it for the future. More: Cash assistance for poorest Michiganders is harder than ever to get More: Michigan child care providers brace for Sept. 30 funding cliff that could close centers 1 in 8 Michigan children go hungry Childrens reliance on WIC has increased notably since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020, with a 17% increase in child participation since that time. The rise in need reflects a rise in food prices around the nation. From 2018 to 2022, food prices rose by more than 20% more than any other cost category except for transportation. Food prices tend to inflate by an average of 2% each year. Last year, prices in nine food categories exceeded 10%. One in eight Michigan children face hunger, according to Feeding America, the countrys largest hunger relief organization. People struggling to buy food also have been hit by higher child care and transportation costs. Hunger has the most impact on northern, rural Michiganders, though Wayne County has the fifth-highest rate of food insecurity. And rates of WIC participation are expected to increase for fiscal year 2024, officials said. More than 169,000 Michiganders could be affected Throughout its history, WIC has largely benefitted from bipartisan support in Congress and has been sufficiently funded since 1997. But the appropriations bills currently before the House and Senate fund WIC at levels that are drastically below those needed to provide full nutrition assistance benefits to all the eligible families that apply, according to the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, a nonpartisan research and policy institute. Analysts at the center estimate that nationally, 600,000 new parents and children would be turned away from the program and 4.7 million people would see their benefits cut sharply should the bills pass. All told, WIC funding proposed in the current appropriation bills would likely mean 19,200 eligible Michiganders would be turned away from the program, and more than 150,000 would have their produce budget more than halved. A funding shortfall would mean eligible participants likely would have to be put on a waiting list and others who come to the end of their eligibility period would not be able to renew their benefits. While MDHHS is watching the status of the federal budget closely, the departments goal is to maintain the necessary services to Michigan residents, Michigan health department spokesperson Lynn Sutfin said in an email. We are not anticipating changes in services at this time but will continue to monitor and evaluate the situation, as well as communicate as needed. If WIC is not fully funded, federal prioritization criteria advises states on whom to prioritize. New parents, toddlers and preschoolers would be more likely to get turned away from the program, officials said. More than 600 organizations across all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico signed on to a letter urging lawmakers to fully fund WIC in the coming fiscal year to avoid service delays and a ripple effect on program access and enrollment. Cassidy says trying to save money by cutting back on WIC is the wrong way to save the government money. I dont think taking food away from babies is really doing much to reign in government spending, she said. And if that's your goal, I think that's a particularly barbaric way to do it." More: State puts $8 million into SOS effort to save Michigan moms and babies More: She was homeless for the first time in her life. How did she climb out? Cutting back the benefits bump WIC bumped up the amount of cash it gives participants to purchase produce two years ago, allowing families to access a wider variety of fruits and vegetables and more than triple their purchasing power at the grocery store. Congress extended the bump through this year, but its another benefit slated for pruning in the proposed new budget. The House Appropriations Committee suggested cutting the amount of fruit and vegetables WIC provides to kids by 56% and it would cut the amount available to pregnant women and new mothers by 70%. This will bring a childs benefit from $35 per month down to just $11 a month for fruits and vegetables, starting October 1, making it that much harder to access the nutritious food our nations youngest kids need to grow up healthy and strong, No Kid Hungry campaign Senior Vice President Lisa Davis said in a statement. A government shutdown would mean a sudden halt to benefits Government funding for the fiscal year will expire at 12:01 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 1. Should Congress fail to pass legislation to extend funding, WIC is just one of the programs that will suffer. Millions of federal employees would be furloughed, all nonessential government functions would cease and federal contractors in sectors, including aviation, could be put on pause. Early childhood education programs could lose federal funding; and SNAP, the nutrition assistance program for low-income families, would be in jeopardy after about a month. The previous government shutdown in 2018 lasted five weeks and cost the country $3 billion in lost gross domestic product and delayed $18 billion in discretionary spending. The Congressional Budget Office found that a longer shutdown would have affected federal benefit programs, dampening consumer spending and reducing consumer confidence. The Senate voted on Tuesday to advance a short-term funding bill known as a Continuing Resolution that would serve as a stop-gap measure, funding federal agencies at current levels through Nov. 17. That proposal did not provide additional WIC funding to meet the projected increase in program participation. However, Cassidy says it does create some flexibility in how fast WIC money can be spent, and it allows unused program funds from previous years to be used now, meaning WIC would not have to cut benefits or enrollment for the time being. Despite bipartisan support for the measure in the U.S. Senate, the Continuing Resolution is expected to face resistance in the House. Sutfin said the state of Michigan currently has sufficient funds to continue the WIC program if there is a government shutdown, though she didnt say how long the money would last. Jennifer Brookland covers child welfare for the Detroit Free Press in partnership with Report for America. Reach her at jbrookland@freepress.com. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: WIC program at risk in appropriations bills or government shutdown Trump and his three eldest children must defend the family business in open court in NYC. They are among 25 witnesses attorney general Letitia James will call in a $250 million fraud trial. On Thursday, a Manhattan appeals panel cleared the way for the trial to start Monday. New York's $250 million fraud trial against Donald Trump and his real-estate empire will force four Trumps to the witness stand in the coming weeks, starting with Ivanka Trump and followed, toward its end, by the former president and his two eldest sons, a new witness list reveals. State Attorney General Letitia James' final list of "Witnesses to be Called" in her case against the Trump Organization was filed late Thursday morning. Here's the whole list of who she's subpoenaed to take the stand, in their order of testifying. The non-jury trial is scheduled to begin in Manhattan on Monday, a date that had remained up in the air pending an appellate panel's ruling on Trump's request that the case be shrunk, pre-trial, on statute-of-limitation grounds. In a terse decision Thursday afternoon, the panel rejected Trump's latest attempt to delay the trial, clearing the way for Monday, barring any further appeals. The decision left the statute-of-limitations question unresolved, though Trump's lawyers are expected to raise it again at trial and in future appeals. Ivanka Trump, a former executive vice president at the Trump Organization through 2016, is in the attorney general's number 14 witness slot and will testify first out of all the Trumps. The former president's eldest daughter, an original plaintiff of the lawsuit, was released from the case after an appeals court found the claims against her were too old. Now, she must testify against her father and brothers Donald Trump, Jr., and Eric Trump, who remain as plaintiffs. Ivanka Trump, a former executive vice president of the family business, negotiated financing for the company before leaving for Washington, DC, with her father in 2017. The AG had accused her of causing misleading financial statements to be submitted to Deutsche Bank, Trump Org's biggest lender, and to the federal government in connection with Trump's development of the Old Post Office building in Washington. The list shows that the state's first scheduled witness will be Donald Bender, Trump's former top accountant. Bender is a partner at Mazars USA, the firm that, in the wake of James' fraud allegations, announced in February that it could no longer stand by the accuracy of a decade of financial statements prepared for Trump. Mazars unceremoniously dumped the Trumps in the midst of preparing the family taxes last year. Also testifying are the Trump Organization's top payroll man, or "controller," Jeffrey McConney, implicated in the company's Manhattan payroll fraud conviction last year, and former CFO Allen Weisselberg, who served a five-month sentence in the payroll case. Also among the earliest planned witnesses is Trump's fixer-turned-foe, Michael Cohen. The former Trump personal attorney drew the number six witness slot. Cohen's 2019 Congressional testimony first alerted the world to what the trial judge has already ruled was rampant fraud in Trump's annual financial statements to banks and insurers. James has credited Cohen's testimony with sparking the three-year investigation that led her to file the fraud lawsuit at the center of the upcoming trial. There are 25 witnesses in all on James' list, including Trump corporate employees, lenders, insurers, and appraisers, all compelled by subpoena to testify. Trump's list of witnesses to call at trial, also filed Thursday, has 127 names on it, though these are listed in alphabetical, not sequential, order. The list indicates that on their direct defense case, Trump's side, too, intends to call Donald Trump and Eric Trump, who continues to manage the Trump Organization. They do not list Ivanka Trump and Donald Trump, Jr., as witnesses. In a blockbuster ruling Tuesday, New York Supreme Court Justice Arthur Engoron found that the AG has already proven her lawsuit's central allegation that Donald Trump's annual financial statements to banks and insurers fraudulently exaggerated his worth by as much as $3.6 billion a year. Engoron also ordered that the company's New York incorporation licenses be immediately revoked, and that in 30 days a receiver be named to begin the "dissolution" of assets something experts are calling the "corporate death penalty." The practical parameters of the ruling remain unclear; at a hearing Wednesday, the judge gave a Trump attorney no guidance on the significant question of what, precisely, would ultimately have to be sold off. The upcoming trial will determine monetary penalties, and whether Trump and his two eldest sons will be forever banned from running a business in New York state, as James has requested. The trial will determine whether the other defendants, including Eric Trump and Donald Trump, Jr., a Trump Org executive vice president and trustee, are also liable for fraud. It will also determine if the plaintiffs are liable for specific violations of state law, including falsification of business records, issuing false financial statements, and insurance fraud. This story has been updated to add that on Thursday afternoon, a decision by a New York appeals panel that cleared the way for the trial to start Monday. Read the original article on Business Insider Heres a look at her political background and some of her biggest cases. ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) Letitia James fixated on Donald Trump as she campaigned for New York attorney general, branding the then-president a con man and carnival barker and pledging to shine a bright light into every dark corner of his real estate dealings. Five years later, James is on the verge of disrupting Trumps real estate empire after a judge ruled Tuesday that he defrauded banks, insurers and others by exaggerating the value of assets on paperwork used for deals and securing loans. The ruling shifts control of some of Trumps companies to a court-appointed receiver, meaning he could lose control of prized properties like Trump Tower, a sprawling suburban estate, office buildings and more. New York State Attorney General Letitia James speaks during the New York State Democratic Convention on Feb. 17, 2022, in New York. James fixated on Donald Trump as she campaigned for New York attorney general, branding the then-president a con man and carnival barker and pledging to shine a bright light into every dark corner of his real estate dealings. (AP Photo by Seth Wenig, File) For James, a Democrat, its just the latest joust with a powerful foe. Heres a look at her political background and some of her biggest cases: Lawsuits against Trump James began investigating Trump just about as soon as she took office as attorney general in 2019. She launched several lawsuits against the Republicans administration over his immigration and environmental policies when he was in the White House. James inherited an ongoing state lawsuit against Trumps charitable foundation, filed before she took office, and steered it to a settlement that included a $2 million fine. She filed another civil lawsuit against Trump last year, alleging that his company deceived banks, insurers and others by overvaluing assets and his net worth on financial paperwork. Its the art of the steal, she said when announcing the case against Trump, turning the title of Trumps book The Art of the Deal against him. A judge in New York on Tuesday sided with James, ruling Trump and his company committed fraud and ordering some of his business licenses to be rescinded as punishment. The ruling, if it stands after an expected appeal, could make it impossible for Trump to do business in New York and would strip him of the ability to make strategic and financial decisions over some of his properties in the state. Trump has long criticized James legal volleys as political theater designed to catapult her to fame. He slammed the most recent ruling in a series of social media posts, calling it a POLITICALLY MOTIVATED WITCH HUNT. The Republican has also complained that her comments about him, prior to her election, show she never intended to be fair. Andrew Cuomo In 2021, James oversaw an investigation of New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who had been accused by multiple women of sexual harassment. The inquiry led to a remarkable downfall for the once-rising star in the Democratic party. Lawyers hired by James concluded that 11 women were telling the truth when they said Cuomo touched them inappropriately, commented on their appearance or made suggestive comments about their sex lives. Cuomo says he was the target of an overzealous #MeToo persecution and alleged that James used the investigation to further her own political aspirations. James ran a brief campaign for governor after Cuomo resigned but abandoned the bid after a few weeks, saying she would instead seek a second term as attorney general. She has dismissed Cuomos claim that her investigation of him was motivated by politics. National Rifle Association Since 2020, James has been leading a lawsuit against the National Rifle Association in a case that accuses its leaders of financial mismanagement. Her lawsuit accused some of the NRAs leaders of using the gun advocacy group to enrich themselves and associates. As attorney general, James has regulatory power over tax-exempt nonprofits, and she cast the legal battle against the NRA as an effort to protect the organization from itself. Critics, though, claimed James a proponent of gun control was trying to silence the nations strongest voice of gun owners. She initially sought to have the NRA dissolved. A judge rejected that idea, but allowed the lawsuit to continue. Political background James won a 2018 election for attorney general in New York, becoming the first Black woman elected to statewide office, the states first Black attorney general and the first woman elected to the post. (A female predecessor, Barbara Underwood, was appointed.) She won reelection as attorney general in 2022 after ditching her short-lived campaign for governor. Prior to that, James was the New York City Public Advocate, a role intended to help people navigate and resolve issues with government services and serve as a watchdog over City Hall. The job made James a familiar fixture in the city, often appearing at crime scenes, news conferences and other events to amplify the concerns of city residents. She has also served in the City Council and worked as a a public defender and an assistant state attorney general. She graduated from Lehman College in the Bronx and earned her law degree from Howard University in Washington. TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, and Android TV. Please download theGrio mobile apps today! The post NY Attorney General Letitia James has a long history of fighting Trump and other powerful targets appeared first on TheGrio. BEIRUT, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Acting Governor of Lebanon's central bank Wassim Mansouri on Thursday called on the government, the parliament, and the political class to work together to find a solution to the loss of depositors' money in Lebanese banks. "If we all work together, we will find solutions, and responsibility is a shared endeavor," Mansouri told a conference held by the Lebanese Economic, Social, and Environmental Council to discuss financial matters. Lebanon's financial crisis, which began in 2019, has led to a shortage of foreign currency and caused billions of dollars' loss for the country's banking sector. As a result, banks have imposed informal capital controls, restricting depositors' access to their dollar savings. The Lebanese government has been unable to agree on a plan to address the crisis. The International Monetary Fund has offered a 3-billion-dollar loan, but only if the government implements a number of reforms. The government, mired in political impasses, has so far been unable to meet these conditions. Mansouri said that it is unacceptable for depositors not to receive their deposits in dollar accounts and that the central bank must provide depositors with answers about when they will be able to access their savings. "If the funds are available, let us inform the people. And if there is an issue, let us inform them, and if the funds are returned, let us establish the mechanism for this," Mansouri added. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) accused the GOP of displaying a fabricated screenshot during the first formal hearing in Republicans impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden on Thursday. Ocasio-Cortezs allegations came after Republican Rep. Byron Donalds of Florida showed a message that Jim Biden, the presidents brother, sent to Hunter Biden, the presidents son, in 2018. Donalds claimed it indicated that the president benefited from fraud and money laundering committed by Hunter Biden. The message Donalds showed, pulled from an affidavit regarding Hunter Biden, was presented to look like a screenshot from a phone, and it left out much of Hunter Bidens original message, fundamentally changing the context of the conversation, Ocasio-Cortez said at the hearing. During the House impeachment inquiry hearing, Rep. @AOC (D-NY) claims Rep. Donalds (R-FL) displayed fabricated text messages from Hunter Biden insinuating an explosive allegation: It was not the actual direct screenshot ... That fabricated image excluded critical context. pic.twitter.com/7igMcrT0fz The Recount (@therecount) September 28, 2023 That screenshot of what appeared to be a text message was a fabricated image, she said. I dont know where it came from, I dont know if it was the staff of the committee, but it was not the actual, direct screenshot from that phone. The text Donalds presented showed Jim Biden telling Hunter Biden: I can work with your father alone !! We as usual just need several months of his help for this to work. Donalds used that portion of the text, which was highlighted in the image he showed, to suggest that Jim Biden was saying the president would help with their business dealings. But in reality, Jim Biden was responding to Hunter Biden saying he needed his fathers help to pay alimony, the document from the affidavit shows. At the time, the presidents son was in the depths of his drug addiction and going through a divorce. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez holds up an image of the actual conversation between Jim Biden and Hunter Biden. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez holds up an image of the actual conversation between Jim Biden and Hunter Biden. What was brought out from from that fabricated image excluded critical context that changed the underlying meaning and allegation that was presented up on that screen, Ocasio-Cortez said. She added that doing so is technically allowed under the speech and debate clause, as Donalds and other members of Congress involved in the hearing were not speaking as witnesses under oath. A representative for Donalds did not immediately return HuffPosts request for comment. Related... Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) blasted Republican presidential candidate Chris Christie for disgusting, misogynistic remarks about first lady Jill Biden during the second GOP debate Wednesday night. Its disgusting, misogynistic, and if Republicans want to continue pissing off an entire nation of women, please be my guest. Well see you at the ballot box, Ocasio-Cortez wrote on X, formerly Twitter. Christie during the debate blasted President Biden for sleeping with a member of the teachers unions, arguing the president wouldnt take on teachers unions because of his wifes status. Asked on CNN This Morning why he made the remark, the former New Jersey governor said the first lady is a radical advocate for the worst in the teachers union and said he brought it up because no one else is willing to say it. He responded to the congresswomans criticism by stressing hes standing by the wording, and knocked Ocasio-Cortez as a hypocrite. Let her accuse me of whatever she wants. When you look at the kind of hypocrite that she is, the kind of things that she does and lives her life as, as opposed to what comes out of her mouth. Please, Id be happy to be accused of anything by AOC, Christie said. Former Vice President Mike Pence, also on the Simi Valley, Calif., debate stage Wednesday night, referenced Christies comment about the presidents wife later in the event. My wife isnt a member of the teachers union, but Ive got to admit, Ive been sleeping with a teacher for 38 years. Full disclosure, Pence said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) slammed Republicans for using a fabricated image in the first impeachment inquiry hearing into President Biden. Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) launched an impeachment inquiry into Biden after Republicans alleged the president and his son, Hunter Biden, profited from foreign business deals. The House Oversight and Accountability Committee held its first hearing Thursday. During the hearing Ocasio-Cortez sat next to a computer screen that showed a clock, ticking down the seconds until the federal funding deadline. The fabricated image Ocasio-Cortez referenced was a screenshot of a text message presented earlier in Thursdays hearing introduced by Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.), she said. Earlier today, one of our colleagues, the gentleman from Florida, presented up on the screen something that appeared to be a screenshot of a text message containing or insinuating an explosive allegation, Ocasio-Cortez said during the hearing. That screenshot of what appeared to be a text message was a fabricated image. I dont know where it came from. I dont know if it was the staff of the committee, but it was not the direct screenshot from that phone, she added. The New York congresswoman said the fabricated image excluded critical context that changed the underlying meaning and allegation. Ocasio-Cortez acknowledged that members of the committee are within their rights to submit a fabricated image under the Speech and Debate Clause of the Constitution, which protects members of Congress from lawsuits over legislative speech. Still, she said they were wasting their time and that the hearing was an embarrassment. Each of the three witnesses testifying before the panel told Ocasio-Cortez and the committee that there is not enough evidence yet to impeach Biden. This is an embarrassment to the time and people of this country, and I would ask that the chair and I would ask that this Committee elevate to the promise of our duties here and comport ourselves with the consistency and practice that is required of our seats and our duty and our oath to our responsibilities here, Ocasio-Cortez said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Octopuses could get the same protections as mice and monkeys thanks to a growing body of evidence that suggests they feel pain Under new guidelines proposed by the NIH, octopuses used in research could receive the same protections as monkeys. BarbAnna/Getty Images; Hal Beral/Getty Images The National Institutes of Health published proposed guidelines for octopuses used in research. The NIH said a growing body of evidence suggests cephalopods are capable of feeling pain. Other countries have also extended animal welfare protections to octopuses. Thanks to mounting evidence that they may be capable of feeling pain, octopuses could soon receive the same legal protections that mice and monkeys have in the US. The US National Institutes of Health this month published proposed guidance on the use of cephalopods such as octopuses, squid, and cuttlefish in research, experimentation, and biological testing. The guidance sets standard practices for activities involving cephalopods, including additional oversight aimed at "avoiding or minimizing discomfort, distress, and pain to cephalopods used for these purposes." The US Public Health Service sets the federal standards for animal welfare in science under its policy on "Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals." The policy defines "animals" as "any live, vertebrate animal" used in research or related purposes. That includes mice and monkeys, which are commonly used in research. But it excludes all invertebrates, including the more than 800 species of cephalopods worldwide, even though the NIH said they are increasingly being used in research. "A growing body of evidence demonstrates that cephalopods possess many of the requisite biological mechanisms for the perception of pain, such as nociceptors and a centralized nervous system," the NIH said, adding cephalopods also have advanced learning capabilities, respond to unpleasant stimuli, and display a similar response to anesthetics as mammals do. The NIH noted additional research is still needed to fully understand the perceptions of cephalopods. Robyn Crook, a marine biologist at San Francisco State University in California, told Nature magazine that ensuring the welfare of cephalopods would be difficult because so little is known about how to actually do it, including how they feel pain or what would help mitigate it. Public comments on the proposed guidance are being accepted through December 22, after which final guidance will be issued. The move comes after other countries have also extended animal welfare protections to cephalopods, including New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and Switzerland. In 2021, the UK announced that octopuses, crabs, and lobsters would be recognized as sentient beings after a government-commissioned review concluded its highly likely they feel pain and distress. That review defined sentience as "the capacity to have feelings, such as feelings of pain, pleasure, hunger, thirst, warmth, joy, comfort and excitement." As a result, some crustaceans and cephalopods received protection under the country's animal welfare laws. As protections for cephalopods become more common, a company in Spain has also proposed killing more than one million octopuses a year at the first-ever factory farm of its kind. The controversial proposal involves submerging the octopuses alive in freezing water in order to kill them, sparking concern from scientists and animal rights activists. Read the original article on Business Insider An Ohio woman who worked as the director of a memory care center and was sued by patients for giving dozens of false Alzheimer's diagnoses has been sentenced to 71 months in prison on federal fraud charges. Sherry-Ann Jenkins, who has a Ph.D. but no medical license or training, must also pay a $25,000 fine. Also sentenced was her husband, Oliver Jenkins, who got 41 months and a $15,000 fine on Tuesday for what prosecutors said was a "scheme to defraud." They were both convicted of conspiracy, mail fraud, wire fraud and health care fraud, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Ohio. Prosecutors said Sherry-Ann Jenkins would represent herself as a medical doctor and perform medical tests, give diagnoses and treatments to patients without a license to do so, and would use her husband's name on orders and billing records. While the federal charges focused on the billing fraud, dozens of patients separately filed suit, accusing the couple of delivering false diagnoses that they claimed altered many of their lives. The cases were resolved between the parties out of court. An attorney for Sherry-Ann Jenkins declined to comment. Attorneys for Oliver Jenkins did not respond to requests for comment from USA TODAY on Thursday. Ex-director would order scans, give diagnoses under husband's name The fraud was carried out between 2013 and 2016, prosecutors said. Oliver Jenkins, whose medical license has since been revoked according to state records, was an ear, nose and throat doctor. The pair established the Toledo Clinic Cognitive Center, part of the Toledo Clinic, and said Oliver Jenkins would oversee medical treatments and diagnoses while Sherry-Ann Jenkins would administer testing under her husband's supervision, according to prosecutors. This Sept. 28, 2023 photo shows the Toledo Clinic in Toledo, Ohio. A former director of an Ohio memory-loss clinic accused by dozens of patients of falsely diagnosing them with Alzheimers disease has been sentenced on federal fraud charges, along with her physician husband.(Jeremy Wadsworth/The Blade via AP) ORG XMIT: OHTOL101 However, Sherry-Ann Jenkins "performed as a fully qualified and licensed physician or psychologist," according to court records reviewed by USA TODAY. "She immediately began assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients for perceived cognitive disorders, including Alzheimer's Disease." The criminal complaint says she ordered a PET scan an imaging test that typically involves administering an injection of a radioactive "tracer" to help visualize active areas of the brain for nearly every patient. She would order the tests using her husband's codes, bill for hours under her husband's name though he never saw the patients, and bill for medically unnecessary treatments, the complaint said. She also misrepresented herself as a "doctor," including on the center's website, without specifying that she had no medical qualifications, prosecutors said. Some patients said they upended their lives after diagnoses More than 60 patients and their family members also filed suit in 2017, accusing Sherry-Ann Jenkins of giving false cognitive diagnoses that in some cases caused them to make life-altering decisions. According to a complaint viewed by USA TODAY, one patient, a veteran and a former train dispatcher, killed himself after receiving an Alzheimer's diagnosis. Another took a six-month leave of absence from work and was later let go from her job. One quit his job and lost out on retirement benefits. Sherry-Ann Jenkins told another patient he had Alzheimer's and that he only had five years to live; that patient and his wife sold their house and other assets to move near their children as a result. In another case, a patient's family moved him into a nursing home at Sherry-Ann Jenkins' suggestion. "Sherry-Ann Jenkins has misdiagnosed patients with various forms of dementia, including various types of Alzheimer's disease, dementias, and depressive pseudodementia," the lawsuit said. In some cases, other doctors told the patients they disagreed with Sherry-Ann Jenkins' diagnoses, and in other cases the patients only found out she wasn't qualified to give the diagnoses from other sources, the complaint said. One patient who was diagnosed with stage two Alzheimer's by Sherry-Ann Jenkins had some symptoms that improved after she stopped taking medications prescribed by a different doctor, according to the lawsuit. She also prescribed treatments, including coconut oil, "that lack empirical support and are of dubious value," the suit claimed. She diagnosed multiple members of the same family with Alzheimer's in varying stages, the complaint said. The patients saw Sherry-Ann Jenkins for help with memory loss, inattention or other cognitive issues, sometimes referred by other doctors. Some had had concussions or other head injuries. They sued the couple, the Toledo Clinic and other employees who were accused of helping Sherry-Ann Jenkins and settled out of court. James O'Brien, a lawyer who represented them, told USA TODAY that the FBI conducted a "phenomenal" investigation of the very complex situation. "I was happy to see the whole thing brought to resolution," he said Thursday. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ohio couple accused of false Alzheimer's diagnoses sentenced for fraud OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) A convicted felon was arrested again after allegedly stalking and harassing a woman. Any time you can get someone like that off the streets, especially when theres a crime when theres another victim involved, its a win, said Sgt. Dillon Quirk with the Oklahoma City Police Department. Midwest City PD investigate shooting, one victim Mugshot of Ricky Milligan OKCPD says 65-year-old Ricky Milligan was arrested for felony stalking on Sept. 21. Hes accused of targeting a woman back on Sept. 9 as she left work. The suspect yelled some obscenities at the victim, and began following the victim for a brief period, said Quirk. Police records show the victim was driving on Lincoln Blvd. when Milligan pulled out of a side street and began tailgating her and swerving sharply towards her car. The report reads she thought he was going to try to run her off the road because he has done so in the past. Were aware that he has a pretty lengthy criminal history, said Quirk. Police were able to track Milligan down, arresting him last week. His track record is grim. Find more Top Stories from KFOR.com According to court documents, Milligan was sentenced to 50 years for kidnapping and rape in 1980, but only served 24. Then, in 2010, he was sentenced for 13 years in prison for assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, but only served for four years. Milligans current bond is set at $1,000,000. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. Six students from Salmon High School in Salmon, Idaho, are facing disciplinary measures after being photographed wearing shirts that spelled out the N-word. The photo, which was posted on Instagram on Tuesday, Sept. 26, and has since been deleted, depicted the teens encircling a mixed-race female student on the ground. The white students were seen making obscene gestures, while the girl on the ground also raised her middle finger towards the others behind her. According to Troy Easterday, the superintendent of Salmon School District 291, the students were not maliciously trying to promote an anti-Black agenda. Photo of Salmon High School Students wearing shirts spelling out the N-word. (Photo: KTVB/YouTube screenshot) As superintendent of the Salmon School District, I am well aware of the current situation happening with a social media post by our Salmon School District students. At this time, the administrative team of the Salmon School District is investigating this post and will keep the community aware within the legal confines of the law, Easterday said in an interview with KTVB. He added that these types of situations are always taken seriously. Trending: Viral Photo of Expecting Couple at Baby Shower Baffles Social Media Users It Is Useless to Me: Mom Slams Ireland Gymnastics Officials Public Apology After Horrendous Video Resurfaces of Black Girl Getting Ignored at Medal Ceremony Get the Fk Out of Here!: Bachelorettes Rachel Lindsay and Co-Host Take on GOP Candidate Larry Elder Over Black Fatherlessness Issue In Heated Exchange Our team did not hesitate to act. We did all the right legal steps to make sure disciplinary action was taken, he said. He also took to Facebook to explain the districts position on the incident and what it seems to communicate to the public. WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW. The Salmon School District does not condone, and has never condoned, what was expressed on social media today. Disciplinary action has been taken, the superintendent stated. He also mentioned that the districts administrative team is investigating the post and will keep the community informed within the bounds of the law regarding this provocative incident. Easterday also noted in the video, which was posted at 7:40 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 27, that the district had contacted the police and board members to notify them of the incident. Some parents were outraged, especially those with children and family members of color. The post is disgusting and amounts to a hate crime. Im ashamed and embarrassed. My husband is one of two, maybe three African-Americans in this town. Im afraid that if I speak out too much, it could affect my job or my small business, one woman told East Idaho News in an interview. One mother stated that she is considering withdrawing her children from the district, fearing that the children responsible for staging the racially offensive photo will go unpunished. The reason theres hate in this community is because no one takes action. Period, the mother said. These kids are old enough to know right from wrong. Parents need to do better. But you cant solely blame the parents for this, as some of them are 18. Theyre adults. Its disturbing. VISALIA, Calif. (KGPE/KSEE)- Quesadilla Gorilla in Visalia is ready to celebrate its decade of business on Thursday. According to Quesadilla Gorilla business owners, the restaurant was established in 2013. This Visalia-based restaurant chain is said to be a cherished part of the community, serving and creating memorable dining experiences. The past ten years have been an incredible journey for us, said Miguel Reyes, co-founder of Quesadilla Gorilla In honor of 10 years of business, The Quesadilla Gorilla in Visalia will host a 10th Anniversary Bash that will feature an array of quesadillas, drinks, exclusive merchandise, and raffle prizes. Organizers say Quesadilla Gorilla will sell their famous quesadillas at their original opening price of just $6 in honor of their anniversary. They say this is a nostalgic nod to where it all began and an opportunity for longtime fans and newcomers to enjoy their creations. The 10th Anniversary event is from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on September 28 at the Quesadilla Gorilla in Visailia, 302 W Main St. Visalia, CA 93291. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com. Photo taken with a mobile phone on Sept. 28, 2023 shows damaged buildings in Khartoum, Sudan. Violent clashes continued Thursday between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Khartoum, killing more than 13 civilians, according to eyewitnesses and local media. (Photo by Mohamed Khidir/Xinhua) KHARTOUM, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Violent clashes continued Thursday between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Khartoum, killing more than 13 civilians, according to eyewitnesses and local media. "Today, violent clashes took place in the vicinity of the army's Engineers Corps in Omdurman, while large areas of the Umbada neighborhood of the city came under violent artillery shelling," an eyewitness from Omdurman, west of the Sudanese capital, told Xinhua. He said the artillery and air bombardment focused on western parts of the Umbada neighborhood and the army-controlled Karari military base in northern Omdurman. The Resistance Committee of Umbada neighborhood said in a statement on Thursday that "the neighborhood experienced violent artillery bombardment, which left 13 civilians dead and 35 others wounded." Also on Thursday, the independent Sudan Tribune news portal cited eyewitnesses as saying that "they heard strong explosions caused by artillery shells fired by the RSF towards the army's positions in central Khartoum." The RSF artillery strikes mainly targeted the army headquarters in central Khartoum, causing heavy smoke columns, the news portal said. An eyewitness from eastern Khartoum told Xinhua that the SAF warplanes bombarded the RSF posts in Imtidad Nasir neighborhood east of the capital. Meanwhile, the Sudanese Emergency Lawyers, an activist group initiative concerned with monitoring violations, said in a report on Wednesday that between April 16 and Sept. 19, 954 civilians have been killed and 2,434 others injured in both sides' bombardment in the Khartoum State, El-Obeid, the capital city of North Kordofan and Nyala, the capital city of South Darfur State. "130 children and 94 women were among the dead, with Khartoum recording 647 deaths, El-Obeid 79 deaths, and Nyala 228 deaths," the report said. Sudan has been witnessing deadly clashes between the SAF and the RSF in Khartoum and other areas since April 15, resulting in at least 3,000 deaths and more than 6,000 injuries, according to figures released by the Sudanese Health Ministry. According to the latest report by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), some 5.3 million people have been displaced inside and outside Sudan. Over one million people have crossed into neighboring countries, including the Central African Republic, Chad, Egypt, Ethiopia and South Sudan, OCHA said. Photo taken with a mobile phone on Sept. 28, 2023 shows damaged buildings in Khartoum, Sudan. Violent clashes continued Thursday between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Khartoum, killing more than 13 civilians, according to eyewitnesses and local media. (Photo by Mohamed Khidir/Xinhua) This photo taken on Sept. 28, 2023 shows passenger buses hit by an artillery shell launched by the Sudanese paramilitary Rapid Support Forces at Al-Jarrafa neighborhood, Sudan. Violent clashes continued Thursday between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Khartoum, killing more than 13 civilians, according to eyewitnesses and local media. (Xinhua) An animated Sheriff T.K. Waters denounced Jacksonvilles recent murders. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< One murder is one murder too many, Sheriff Waters said. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Six people have been killed since last Friday. Saturday, a triple homicide took the lives of two adults and a 3-year-old. This morning, a 6-year-old was murdered while a 12-year-old and an adult were shot and wounded. In a news conference on Wednesday, Sheriff Waters said when people start killing children it affects an entire community. It really does bother me that I dont know if any of you have been on the scene of a child has been murdered, and actually walked up to a child thats got bullet holes in it, Sheriff Waters said. According to Action News Jaxs count, 26 kids under the age of 18 have been injured in gun violence this year. According to Jacksonville Sheriffs Office transparency page, 10 children have died in a murder case. RELATED STORY: 6-year-old child dead and two other people injured after shooting in Lackawanna RELATED STORY: 3-year-old shot, killed on Southside marks 9th child death from local gun violence RELATED STORY: Our community will not protect you: Jacksonville sheriff speaks to those who shot, killed kids In a question asked by Action News Jax reporter Annette Guiterrez, How do we curb that violence? I know we want outrage. But is there any way we can help protect the kids even more? Sheriff Waters responded by saying, So, when I say outrage, I want people to be angry enough that we talk about it. Organizations like Families of Slain Children and Silent Women Speaking Foundation aim to help families that have lost loved ones to gun violence. Babies shouldnt have to go through this... Just a bullet penetrate no innocent baby, Beverly McClain, Founder and CEO of Families of Slain Children, said. Weve done enough talking, you know, we have to put our foot down now, as community leaders..., Haraka Carswell, Founder of Silent Women Speaking Foundation, said. JSO is still looking for those involved in the recent shootings but the sheriff has a message for them. I vow to you that this agency will not rest until you are held accountable for your crimes, Sheriff Waters said. You took the lives of innocent children. The sheriff stressed that JSO and the community are working as partners to help combat this issue. The new citys budget is adding 40 more officers to JSO. Sheriff Waters said with the training required, we wont see new boots on the ground for about another year. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] In a statement issued by the NAACP: The Local Branch of the NAACP is outraged at the overnight killing of a six-year-old child. The senseless violence and shootings in our communities are unnecessary and need to end. The African American leaders should continue to stand in solidarity as they did previously over the recent mass shooting and call out the violence and senseless killings in the black community. The NAACP is strongly speaking out against these atrocities and is demanding a cease-fire. We strongly encourage anyone with information on this latest shooting or any other shooting to report it to the authorities immediately. The Branch extends its deepest condolences to the families of these latest victims and offers any support to bring peace back to our communities. NAACP If you have any information on the recent murder cases, you are asked to contact JSO at 904-630-0500 or call Crime Stoppers at 866-845-8477 (TIPS). 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. Multiple Philadelphia stores were targeted during a seemingly premeditated looting spree following a judge dropping murder charges against a former police officer. Philadelphia police officer Mark Dial fatally shot 27-year-old motorist Eddie Irizarry through a closed car window during a traffic stop in Kensington on Aug. 14. As of the evening of Tuesday, Sept. 26, approximately 52 people between the ages of 18 and 22 were arrested in connection with the looting. Of those arrested, only three were juveniles. Prosecutors stated that most of the individuals were charged with burglary and theft, and one person was apprehended for illegal gun possession. Officers confiscated two firearms. Images of looters in Philadelphia. (Photo: Twitter/ Andrew Pollack) At approximately 8 p.m. in Center City, a large group of young adults looted stores, including Foot Locker, Lululemon, and the Apple store. Law enforcement apprehended nearly two dozen teenagers and at least one adult during the event. Reports indicated that the looting also spread to the Northeast and certain areas of West Philadelphia. Stores in Roosevelt Mall, such as JD Sports, were left bare, with a sign beside the door that read, closed until further notice. Fine Wine & Good Spirits announced the closure of all its stores on Wednesday after 18 locations were broken into. Trending: I Just Sat There and Took It: Florida Teen Reportedly Edited Into Image Holding Cotton, Called Racist Terms By Classmates. Other Students Have Come Forward Old Enough to Know Right from Wrong: Teens at Idaho High School to Face Disciplinary Action After Disgusting Picture of Them with T-Shirts Spelling Out the N-Word Hits the Internet Viral Photo of Expecting Couple at Baby Shower Baffles Social Media Users The looters broke into businesses, damaging metal door protectors and using bolt cutters to break locks. During the spree, the looters stole electronics, footwear, apparel, alcohol, pharmaceuticals, and various other items. Community members questioned whether the motives had anything to do with the young mans death. Its just an excuse for them to act up. Like, it doesnt make any sense. Theyre tearing up the neighborhoods where we have to shop, and they have to shop too, Jamal Howard of Olney said to ABC 6 News. The police commissioner stated that the looting was unrelated to the peaceful protests that occurred after the court decision was announced. There is evidence that the vandalism and looting were planned and organized on social media, according to the Inquirer, which found comments on Instagram pointing to that evenings destruction. I know they say tearing up our stuff isnt right, but thats the only way they hear us, one person wrote. WHAT TIME ARE WE GOING SHOPPING??? another asked, while someone else wrote, Are we looting or not??!! Comments like these led the police to believe that some individuals took advantage of Municipal Court Judge Wendy L. Pews decision to clear Dial, a former five-year veteran of the Philadelphia Police Department. While some citizens engaged in peaceful protests following the judges ruling such as one attended by approximately 100 people outside of City Hall on Tuesday evening others were intent on stealing. Interim Police Commissioner John Stanford emphasized during a press conference that the looting and the protests were unrelated, despite what some may claim. What we had tonight was a group of criminal opportunists taking advantage of a situation and attempting to destroy our city, he said. This had nothing to do with the protests, the commissioner declared. Zoraida Garcia, Irizarrys aunt, spoke out against the looting and the people destroying property, possibly harming others. She said, This is not going to bring justice to my family or bring my nephew back, adding that their family does not condone this type of behavior. Read the original story here. Hi OnPolitics readers! Republican lawmakers are holding the first impeachment hearing against President Joe Biden, alleging that the president has financially benefitted from his familys foreign business dealings. What are Republicans saying? Kentucky Rep. James Comer, chair of the House Oversight Committee, kicked off the hearing by accusing the president and his family, particularly his son, Hunter Biden , of selling the Biden brand. What are Democrats saying? Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez chastised House Republicans for holding the impeachment inquiry hearing at all and said the meeting was wasting our time. This is an embarrassment. An embarrassment to the time and people of this country, she added. What are the witnesses saying? Lawmakers called four witnesses on Thursday: three for Republicans and one for Democrats. But even the witnesses called by Republicans werent sold that the president should be removed from office. Jonathan Turley, a constitutional law professor at George Washington University and House Republicans opening witness, said the evidence GOP lawmakers have uncovered so far do not warrant articles of impeachment against Biden. However, several witnesses agreed that its not so simple, and more evidence may be needed for lawmakers to close the book on the impeachment inquiry. Impeachment hearing live updates: What witnesses are saying about Joe Biden, Hunter Biden Stay in the know on politics: Sign up for the OnPolitics newsletter This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Catch up with Joe Biden's first impeachment inquiry hearing Copyright Conundrum Last week, a number of high-profile authors including George R. R. Martin of "Game of Thrones" fame and the acclaimed legal novelist John Grisham filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging that its ChatGPT chatbot is infringing their copyright by directly drawing on work. And according to legal experts, they may actually have a decent chance of winning the case. "If anyone is going to win on the straight-up copyright infringement claims against OpenAI, this is probably the lawsuit that has the best chance of it," James Grimmelmann, a digital and information law professor at Cornell University Law School, told ABC News. Pandora's Box It's a thorny legal battle that will likely drag on for quite some time. Complicating matters significantly is the secrecy with which OpenAI shrouds what exactly ChatGPT is doing. We don't know exactly what data it's ingesting, or what it's doing with it all a confusion, gallingly, that's likely shared by its own researchers. "The big claim is that the ingestion of works of authorship as training data is itself a reproduction of the works," Pamela Samuelson, a professor at the University of California, told ABC. In simple terms, the allegation is that OpenAI is infringing copyright simply by scanning the authors' works and training its algorithms with them. But is it even copying books, or simply scanning them without ever technically reproducing them? While the distinction may sound pedantic, that's the kind of thing lawyers will be combing over to prepare for the legal showdown. "We know how copyright infringements operate but we dont know how these data sets work," Brian Buckmire, an ABC News legal contributor, told the broadcaster. "We dont even have the ability to look under the hood to see what type of information they are and are not using." Authorship Anarchy Regardless of the outcome, this latest lawsuit it's far from the first copyright challenge aimed at OpenAI could force the company to shed some light on the matter and "open the pandora's box," according to Buckmire. Meanwhile, OpenAI and Meta are trying to have a previous challenge filed by comedian Sarah Silverman dismissed on the grounds that the company's conduct fell under "fair use," a "famously open-ended" legal doctrine, per Grimmelman. OpenAI has so far been largely quiet on the latest complaint filed by the authors, offering only sweeping comments about having "constructive discussions in general with creators" to various outlets. If OpenAI were to successfully have the lawsuit dismissed, it could set a troubling precedent allowing anybody to "create an AI model by training it on almost any data they can find," as Grimmelman told ABC and that should have any content creator worried. More on the challenge: OpenAI Trembles as John Grisham Joins Lawsuit Targeting ChatGPT A fighter jet flies near the remnants of a large balloon after it was struck by a missile over the Atlantic Ocean, just off the coast of South Carolina near Myrtle Beach, Saturday, Feb. 4, 2023. Attacks of all kinds from China and Russia need to be thwarted. This year has been marked by cyberattacks, espionage campaigns, and hacking efforts from China and Russia. All of which highlight the need for the United States to maintain its global technological edge. In February, a Chinese spy balloon floated across the United States. In May, we learned that a state-sponsored Chinese hacking group had been spying on critical infrastructure. The next month, news broke about a Chinese spy base sitting just 100 miles off Americas coast. In July, state-backed Chinese hackers hacked into the email accounts of top U.S. officials from the Departments of State and Commerce, while Chinese malware infiltrated U.S. military operations and communications. And in August, Russian hackers posed as technical support to gain access to government agencies to name a few. Now, FBI Director Christopher Wray says, China already has a bigger hacking program than every other major nation combined. These attacks directly threaten our national security, economy, values and way of life. To keep our nation safe, we must protect our digital airwaves, power plants, pipelines, military sites and communications infrastructure from cyberattacks. Our authoritarian adversaries, such as China and Russia, have abused technology and cyberattacks to control, spy upon and steal sensitive information and intellectual property, to the tune of $500 billion annually, as part of their strategic goal of undermining America and our allies in an effort to propel themselves as global superpowers. These authoritarian rivals view the future differently than the United States. Marked by human rights abuses, surveillance campaigns and oppression, China and Russia are leveraging technology to spread their authoritarian geopolitical objectives around the globe. To protect the future of America and the advancement of democracy worldwide, the United States must act to preserve our spot as the globes leader and to protect our security, economy and sovereignty from foreign threats. Washington must ensure that the United States adopts a cyber defense strategy with best-in-class technology developed from our domestic technology sector. Our tech sector is a critical ally in this ongoing fight. American technology companies are on the frontlines in protecting against espionage campaigns and cyberattacks. They have been asked repeatedly, by the White House, Congress and the Pentagon, to invest in future technologies that underpin our defense and intelligence agencies. U.S. innovations, and those of our allies, will help us defend against these assaults on America, making it more difficult for China and Russia to launch successful cyberattacks, steal our technology and ultimately achieve their antidemocratic goals. Knowledge is power. Technological power at home translates to power on the world stage, and a robust technology sector creates a strong national and cyber security strategy. Washington must not pursue policies that stifle technological development and future innovation. Instead, our leaders should work with our domestic technology companies and leverage their innovative capabilities to protect Americas future. As we approach National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, ensuring that America has the tools and capabilities to ward off these cyberattacks will ensure that we are not beholden to the Chinese Communist Party or Russias authoritarian regime. Americas readiness and defense capabilities, or lack thereof, can reshape global values and institutions for the future. A future rooted in democratic values and a safe, secure and prosperous United States begins with a strong American technology sector that can stay ahead of authoritarian threats and bolster our cybersecurity capabilities. Asheesh Agarwal is the U.S. Chamber of Commerce adviser. He has served in senior roles in the Trump and Bush administrations, including at the Federal Trade Commission and Department of Justice. Editors Note: Nicole Hemmer is an associate professor of history and director of the Carolyn T. and Robert M. Rogers Center for the Study of the Presidency at Vanderbilt University. She is the author of Partisans: The Conservative Revolutionaries Who Remade American Politics in the 1990s and cohosts the podcasts Past Present and This Day in Esoteric Political History. The views expressed in this commentary are her own. View more opinion on CNN. Cassidy Hutchinson learned early in life that not everyone can be trusted. After a brief prologue, her new memoir, Enough, opens with a happy childhood memory: 4 or 5 years old, her springer spaniel Abby by her side, Hutchinson sprints to meet her father as he returns home for work, jumping into his slow-rolling pickup truck and singing along to the radio. It is the only memory of this kind she shares about her father. The next memorable outing between them involves a dismayed Hutchinson watching her father and his friends shooting snapping turtles for sport. He mocks her for not being a warrior; she decides to become a vegetarian. Nicole Hemmer - Courtesy Nicole Hemmer That sort of spine reappears now and then as Hutchinson, who rose to insta-fame in the summer of 2022 for her explosive testimony before the January 6 committee, hurtles into politics during her summers in college. A first-generation college student at her second-choice school, Hutchinson quickly finds herself interning for Rep. Steve Scalise in the Republican House leadership office, then briefly in Sen. Ted Cruzs Senate office and finally in the Office of Legislative Affairs in the Trump White House. She takes charge of schedules and contacts with a devoted work ethic and preternatural confidence, repeatedly putting a boundary-crossing Rep. Matt Gaetz in his place (He chuckled and brushed his thumb across my chin, she writes about an interaction with Gaetz after the first House impeachment vote; she would later work to block his communication with the White House.) But when it came to working in the West Wing as a staffer for then-Chief of Staff Mark Meadows and being a regular presence in meetings with the president, things unfold differently. Her memoir may be titled Enough, but despite repeated warnings that she is embedded with some of the least trustworthy people in politics, it takes quite a long time for Hutchinson to reach her breaking point a point that only comes after she has been abandoned and betrayed by nearly everyone she had come to trust. In a book that exposes the corrosive and corrupt inner workings of the Trump White House, which valued loyalty to Donald Trump above all else, Hutchinsons own sense of loyalty proves to be her central flaw. At least, the flaw she is most willing to put on the page. Still in her mid-20s, Hutchinson may be a bit too young and a bit too close to her life-changing decision to testify against the former president and his team to offer the sort of insight into her own motivations that usually fuels a memoir. The stories of her childhood are punctuated with traumatic episodes centering on her father, who taunts her while shes pinned under a four-wheeler as a terrified young child, and later, after he and Hutchinsons mother divorce, leaves a package containing a gift of what Hutchinson describes as two deer hearts, still warm and dripping with blood. She recalls that The Apprentice was one of his favorite shows and that Trump was his hero, but never really explains how she then became a Trump loyalist. For a political memoir, her politics are largely absent, other than a sense that she sees herself, now at least, as a sort of Mitt Romney-John McCain Republican, wary of ideologues like Meadows despite her loyalty to him as her boss. But its fair to say that most readers havent picked up Enough to better understand Hutchinson; theyve come for the front-row seat into the meltdown of the Trump administration that her loyalty earned her. Much of that material is familiar it made up the bulk of the testimony that made her famous and yet theres much new here as well that helps explain both Hutchinsons choice to stay and adds detail to the lengths Trump and his team went to in their efforts to overturn the 2020 election (efforts for which many of the books main characters, including Trump and Meadows, have been indicted, pleading not guilty). From the start, Hutchinson found herself in a mostly-male world where casual sexism thrived. At the Office of Legislative Affairs, she recounts being the only woman on the team. The people she worked for in both Congress and the White House were uniformly male. Many of the men around her are paternalistic or creepy. At a dinner one night during her early days as an intern in Congress, Hutchinson writes that former House Speaker John Boehner admonished her for drinking a cranberry vodka and touched the ends of her hair: Dark liquor or red wine only from now on. And lose the ponytail. Others saw her as a potential conquest. She writes that, during a convening at Camp David, Gaetz stopped by a cabin he believed was hers and tried to get her to escort him back to his own cabin, saying he was lost. Gaetz told MSNBC that he didnt remember these incidents and claimed to have briefly dated and then remained friends with Hutchinson, who said, I never dated Matt Gaetz. Later, she alleges, in the middle of Trumps pre-riot rally on January 6, Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani groped her. I feel his frozen fingertips trail up my thigh, she writes. (In a statement, a Giuliani adviser called Hutchinsons assertion a disgusting lie.) This sort of alleged harassment is not surprising at a White House led by a man who bragged that when he saw women he liked he could grab them by the pussy and whom a federal jury recently found responsible for sexually abusing writer E. Jean Carroll in the 1990s (which Trump has denied). But it speaks to the environment where Hutchinson worked, where loyalty meant enduring harassment and deflecting disrespect, rather than challenging the broader system. And make no mistake: though Hutchinson would ultimately break from the Trump loyalists, loyalty and trust were just as important to her during her time in the White House. She was drawn to powerful figures who praised her, from Meadows to now-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to Trump (a trio she describes as caught up in one of the most complicated three-way relationships in contemporary Republican politics). They, in turn, found her loyalty and insights useful, so much so that the young woman was quickly welcomed into what Trump reportedly called the circle of trust. To Trump loyalists, Hutchinson is responsible for breaking that trust. But after the insurrection, she says she was quickly pushed out of the circle. In the closing days of Trumps presidency, a period in which Meadows was reportedly burning so many documents in his office fireplace that his wife complained he smelled like a bonfire, Meadows cautioned her that both he and Trump had their doubts about her. The president thinks youre disloyal. That youre a leaker. They were the two worst accusations a Trump staffer could face. And while she denied speaking to the press, her usefulness was at an end. In the days that followed, Trump, Meadows and McCarthy all stopped speaking to her. Hutchinson comes to her breaking point late, and she does so surrounded, for the first time in the book, by women. Alyssa Farah Griffin, who worked in the Trump White House as director of strategic communications, helps connect Hutchinson to Liz Cheney, the Republican representative who broke with her party to lead the January 6 committee (for which she was repaid with a defeat in her next primary election). At their urging, and inspired by the legacy of Watergate whistleblower Alexander Butterfield, Hutchinson says enough. And while she was pushed to that precipice by the behavior of older, more powerful people and held on to her loyalty far longer than most readers likely would have it was ultimately her decision to jump, an act of courage that far more people far older and more secure failed to do. Hutchinson still expresses a deep sense of loyalty, though now it is to people like Cheney, and to the long line of whistleblowers that she has joined. And while that may bring with it some blind spots of its own, it will serve Hutchinson far better than her misplaced loyalties in the Trump White House. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com There is a 1905 photograph taken by Lewis Hine titled Italian Family Seeking Lost Baggage, Ellis Island. It shows a mother, with a scarf covering her hair and a baby in her arms, and two children: a boy, about 11 or 12 years old, with what looks like a laundry bag over his shoulder, and a younger girl, sucking her thumb. They all are looking out from the scene, toward the viewer. The youngsters in the picture were among hundreds of thousands of immigrant children in the early 20th century whose presence would lead to the expansion and improvement of the New York City Public School system. Those young people immigrants and the children of immigrants would help New York become the great metropolis it is today. And many of them graduated from the citys public schools. Now, the city, and the country, are in another such moment. Over the last two years, 20,000 migrant students have registered for school in New York City. They are part of a national trend. For the first time in several years, the foreign-born population of the U.S. grew, to slightly more than 46 million. But instead of learning from the past, online peddlers of hate are stoking fear of an immigrant invasion. Far-right media figures are using images of immigrant families registering for school to build support for their cause, accompanied by headlines making the absurd claim that 21,000 New York students had been kicked out to make space for migrants. The reality is that K-12 enrollment in New York City schools has decreased by more than 120,000 over the past five years and until the last few months, some experts worried that declining immigration might make it difficult for the city to recover those losses. Despite this reality, the narrative of a migrant panic centered around New York schools is taking root. But, as in the past, there is another story to tell. In contrast to stereotypes, immigrant youth come to school eager to belong, make new friends, speak English and succeed. While learning a new language takes time, these students bring with them social, emotional and cognitive assets that help set them up for long-term success. It is no coincidence that nearly half of Fortune 500 companies, many of which are headquartered in Manhattan, were founded by immigrants or their children. Much of what schools do to help newcomers succeed is good for their U.S.-born classmates as well. It starts with relationships with educators who understand them; rigorous and relevant curriculum with appropriate support to help make the content accessible; and a school culture focused on building a true sense of belonging. At Re-Imagining Migration, weve seen the dedication of educators in New York firsthand through a multi-year partnership with New York City Public Schools Division of Multilingual Learners. Last year, we worked with ninth- and 10th-grade teachers in 13 schools on teaching a pilot unit called The Words We Use, focused on migration past and present. The project culminated in an event at the Museum of the City of New York that included 50 students many of them recent arrivals and English learners from across the city who came together to build community while sharing their stories through poetry. For students, one of the most powerful takeaways was not simply to see how they connected with their peers, but to reflect upon the similarities and differences between their experiences and those of immigrants who came before them. Related How This NYC Teacher Helps Immigrant Students Weave Community in a New Country In our work with educators around the country, we use the Hine photo to make the point. Instead of sharing the context with students at first, we encourage them to view it closely and to note what they see, think and wonder about. Then we layer in information about where and when the picture was taken, and what is known about the subjects. This deceptively simple thinking routine, developed by the Harvard Graduate School of Educations Project Zero, helps students focus on the subjects as humans before narratives and expectations shape their perceptions. Indeed, that was the point Hine was trying to make: In a period of high migration, newcomers from new places were subjected to skepticism and prejudices. He wanted viewers to see immigrants arriving at Ellis Island not as stereotypes, but as who they were: humans on the move. The ability to understand migration, both the challenges and opportunities that come with it, is vital in a world of demographic change. That work begins in schools. It begins with seeking to understand the world from someone elses point of view, engaging with others whose experiences are different from our own and developing the habit of stepping back to inquire and understand instead of relying on narratives fueled by fear. We are proud to be working with educators and leaders in New York who recognize that migration is a throughline of the citys history. You cant walk down New Yorks streets without seeing how generations of migrants make the city what it is today. When immigrant students succeed, all New Yorkers, and all Americans, benefit. The children in the Lewis Hine photo are not that different from those registering for school today; their names and means of arrival might be different, but what brought them is the same: they are seeking safety and opportunity. With access to education, resources and opportunity, todays newcomers will do what those in the photo and others like them have done for generations: contribute to the citys, and the countrys, vitality and resilience. Must the Republican Party be either conservative or populist with no in between? That was a core contention of former vice president Mike Pences speech on populism a couple of weeks ago, and former Sen. John Danforth (R-Mo.) says the same thing in a new Wall Street Journal op-ed. The future of this party, Pence said in his speech, belongs to one or the other, not both. For his part, Danforth writes, The traditionally conservative and Trumpian populist wings of the GOP have arrived at the same conclusion: They can no longer coexist in the same party. Im an enormous admirer of Pence, and no one can doubt the sincerity and honor of Danforth, but this is too simplistic and runs counter both to the history of conservatism and to its present. One problem with the all-or-nothing formulation is that, based on the current correlation of political forces, it would mean nothing for conservatives. Certainly, if this question is being litigated in the 2024 primary, the hope for conservatism with Trump currently stomping the rest of the field is not high. But its never been an all-or-nothing proposition before. Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush all had broad populist streaks. Consider Reagan, obviously a hero and exemplar for conservatives. In a signature 1977 speech to CPAC, he pushed back against the idea that conservatives were a small group of ideological purists trying to capture a majority. No, they were a majority trying to assert its rights against the tyranny of powerful academics, fashionable left-revolutionaries, some economic illiterates who happen to hold elective office and the social engineers who dominate the dialogue and set the format in political and social affairs. He referred to a New Republican party that will not be, and cannot, be one limited to the country club-big business image that, for reasons both fair and unfair, it is burdened with today. The New Republican Party I am speaking about is going to have room for the man and the woman in the factories, for the farmer, for the cop on the beat and the millions of Americans who may never have thought of joining our party before, but whose interests coincide with those represented by principled Republicanism. If we are to attract more working men and women of this country, we will do so not by simply making room for them, but by making certain they have a say in what goes on in the party. Reagans position on the Panama Canal We built it, we paid for it, its ours was meant to pull emotional strings. He criticized crime, welfare and affirmative action in sometimes harsh terms that shocked polite opinion. He identified with the rising social conservatives, who were, according to their elite critics, the great unwashed of American politics, the way Tea Party activists and Trump enthusiasts would be portrayed decades later. In his book, The Right, Matt Continetti notes that the supply-sider journalist Jude Wanniski predicted a Reagan landslide in 1980 because he is a conservative populist where Goldwater was a conservative elitist. Now, of course, Reagan had deep-seated views that ran counter to contemporary populism he was a dyed-in-the-wool free marketer, who supported free trade and immigration and a vigorous, if prudent, American posture abroad. Needless to say, Trump is much more of a pure populist, but even he wasnt all or nothing as president. He pursued and achieved a number of significant traditional conservative policy goals, whether tax cuts, deregulation, more exploitation of fossil fuels, destroying a terrorist enemy overseas, withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal and appointing conservative justices, among others. On many specific issues, theres overlap between the two supposedly irreconcilable sides of the Republican Party. There are conservative and populist reasons to disdain and counter the elites who want to impose ESG on companies, who run our system of higher education, who seek to force a green-energy revolution and who were advocates for lockdowns and mandates during the pandemic. Everyone on the right is hostile to the permanent governing apparatus in Washington, D.C., whether they call it the bureaucracy, the administrative state or the deep state. And everyone distrusts the press whether they call it the mainstream media, the legacy media or the corporate media. Those terms can have different nuances of meaning, with the favored populist phrases deep state and corporate media having more edge and a greater flavor of anti-elitism. A basic issue in this discussion is how to define populism, which is a nebulous concept. Perhaps the most basic populist idea is that the people should be trusted more than the elites and are better than the elites something most post-World War II conservatives, certainly those in elective politics, have believed, too. Populism is also simply a mode of politics in a democracy. Success usually requires identifying with the broad mass of the public and having an identity markedly distinct from the governing elite for instance, both Reagan and George W. Bush were brush-clearing cowboys in their spare time. Danforth says populists stoke an us v. them division and contrasts them with Abraham Lincoln, who sought to preserve the Union. The weakness in this contrast is that Lincoln himself had populist appeal thats what the branding as a rail-splitter was about (in reality, the politically ambitious, upwardly mobile attorney had zero fondness for rail-splitting). And perhaps our most populist president, Andrew Jackson, was a confirmed Unionist. Also, the substantive content of populism changes over time. In Lincolns day, support for tariffs and industrial policy key elements of Lincolns policy constituted elitist economics. Now, of course, the opposite is true. Theres a genuine debate between conservatives and populists over trade, industrial policy, levels of federal spending and foreign affairs. These are consequential questions, but its easy to imagine shades-of-gray outcomes in all of these policy debates that fall within or close to the practical Republican consensus over the years. The deeper problem with populism is that its suspicion of elites can curdle into conspiracy theories. Its belief in the importance of the democratic will can express itself in an impatience with constitutional constraints. Its natural combativeness can lead to an effort to find, and create, enemies that knows no bounds. All of which brings us to Donald Trump. Danforth writes, Populists have relentlessly undermined our Constitution. They have falsely asserted that elections are rigged, that President Biden is illegitimate, and that we should ignore our courts. They have opposed the peaceful transfer of power and encouraged a mob to attack the U.S. Capitol. But Ron DeSantis is a populist-inflected Republican who hasnt, say, encouraged mobs to attack the Capitol. What Danforth is talking about here is the most fervent Trump supporters, which is why his qualifier elsewhere in the piece of Trumpian populism is important. Its possible to favor greater regulation of freight rail an early legislative priority of the populist Republican senator from Ohio, J.D. Vance without buying into any of Trumps lunatic rants on Truth Social. The crux of the matter is that if Donald Trump wins the Republican nomination, the GOP will have embraced or looked past his unworthy conduct and sentiments that in any other Republican Party would have been considered disqualifying. Mike Pence and John Danforth are right to warn against that and fight to keep it from happening. If Trump wins, his style of politics will be further vindicated in the GOP and lead to yet more imitators. Already, Vivek Ramaswamy has seemed to go out of his way to make people think he believes in conspiracy theories in order to gain street cred, and the performative outlandishness of Arizonas Kari Lake has made her a political celebrity. The stakes are indeed large, even if this isnt really a fight between conservatism and populism. Editors note: Frida Ghitis, a former CNN producer and correspondent, is a world affairs columnist. She is a weekly opinion contributor to CNN, a contributing columnist to The Washington Post and a columnist for World Politics Review. The views expressed in this commentary are her own. View more opinion on CNN. It was yet another startling moment in the seemingly endless legal saga of former President Donald Trump , the front-runner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. Frida Ghitis - CNN A New York judge on Monday declared Trump and his adult sons liable for persistent violations of state law. Judge Arthur Engoron found they engaged in insurance and bank fraud and other manner of misdeeds, canceled the Trump Organizations business certification and set the stage for a trial in which the state is asking for $250 million in damages. If the judges scathing decision in the civil case was remarkable, it was not particularly surprising given all we have learned in the past few years. The judge found that Trump wildly inflated valuations for his businesses and his homes to secure loans and conduct other business. He ordered that Trumps New York businesses be dissolved. A trial could begin next week to consider the amount of damages owed in the lawsuit by New York Attorney General Letitia James. Of course, Trump denounced the ruling, saying his company had been slandered and maligned by this politically motivated Witch Hunt. (Trumps company, by the way, had already been convicted of tax fraud in New York in an unrelated case.) Trumps record of civil and criminal cases is so long that journalists have struggled to keep up, routinely publishing articles that summarize, catalog and compile the astonishing volume of scandals and court actions, all involving behavior by the former president that ranges from disturbing to outrageous. Trump, as we know, is the first former or current president in the history of the United States to be charged with a criminal offense. Not only did he make history, but his record is unlikely God help us! to be surpassed. He has been indicted in four cases. And thats not counting his two impeachments another record during his presidency. (He has pleaded not guilty in the four criminal cases and denies any wrongdoing.) The only part of this that is genuinely surprising is that Trump still enjoys so much support. He remains the top choice for his partys nomination, with 52% of Republicans and Republican-leaning independent voters backing him, according to a recent CNN poll. Former President Donald Trump, the 2024 Republican presidential front-runner, greets supporters in June in Grimes, Iowa. - Scott Olson/Getty Images/FILE Nothing Trump does or says can shock us anymore not his thinly veiled calls for the execution of a US general, or his continuing claims that he won an election he lost by a wide margin or even his threats to punish his critics if he wins reelection. But how is it possible that such a man is not only the leading candidate for a once-conservative, traditional-values party but also that few of those challenging him in the primaries dare spell out the truth that he nearly destroyed US democracy and is still at it? The digest of Trumps misdeeds is filled with transgressions big and small. Over the years, he stiffed small businesses, plumbers, electricians, even waitresses, who worked for him, refusing to pay what they said he owed them. He used his purported charitable fund, the Trump Foundation, to settle legal problems. He even took $20,000 from the donations to buy a 6-foot-tall portrait of himself, according to The Washington Post. The foundation was dissolved, and Trump paid $2 million to charities as part of a legal settlement. Theres Trump University, alleged to be a fraud by would-be students who paid tens of thousands of dollars to learn from the supposed genius businessman. Trump paid $25 million to settle a class action lawsuit, insisting he did nothing wrong. Then there are the women. Even the accusations from women who say Trump sexually abused them have done nothing to erode his support among voters who describe themselves as evangelical Christians. When a jury in a defamation lawsuit found that Trump had committed sexual abuse against the writer E. Jean Carroll, the former presidents lawyers sought to have the verdict thrown out, arguing that Carroll did not accuse Trump of abuse but of rape. The judge then clarified that the jury found that Mr. Trump in fact did exactly that. In other words, the judge in the civil suit said Trump raped Carroll. The list goes on. The most serious cases are still pending. Trump stands accused of trying to overturn the 2020 election, of mishandling secret national security documents, of trying to subvert the election in Georgia. That he retains his hold over the GOP is proof of Trumps one overarching talent, his skill as a demagogue, and of the success of the strategy he put into place early on one designed to discredit and undercut anyone who sought to point out his lies. In his first press conference after winning the 2016 election, Trump berated CNNs Jim Acosta when the journalist tried to ask a question. He thundered, You are fake news! Gradually, Trump persuaded his backers that if they ever heard a negative comment or a disturbing piece of news, it was inevitably fake news. His allies in right-wing media, particularly Fox News and its stars, magnified the effort. And by the time Fox was forced to settle and pay $787 million over lies about the election, smaller right-wing outlets had multiplied, promoting Trumps dangerous fantasies and vengeful conspiracy theories. The bulk of the GOP leadership has fallen into line, either for fear of upsetting Trumps supporters or because they, too, are true believers. Few are willing to point out that Trumps resume is hardly presidential or that his legal problems are of his own making. If anything goes wrong, it isnt Trumps fault. Ever. Bad news? Blame the fake news media. Criminal federal indictments? Must be a politicized Justice Department. Damning investigation, thousands of pages of evidence? Must be a deranged prosecutor. Nineteen people, including Trump, indicted in Georgia? That would be another racist prosecutor. Or maybe the problem is that an Indiana-born judge looking into one of Trumps cases is Mexican. Whatever the case, whatever the circumstance, its not Trumps fault. He is always the victim, and his followers astonishingly seem to believe it. After decades of him facing no consequences, it looks like the mountain of legal troubles is threatening to topple the former president. But his political strength appears intact. In his ruling on Monday, Engoron trashed Trumps preposterous legal arguments, even citing an earlier judges order in another case fulminating about Trumps history of abusing the judicial process. Its not surprising that the court found Trump committed fraud, or that a former loyal aide now calls him the gravest threat to US democracy. What is most unsettling and disappointing is how many millions of people believe his version of events regardless of the evidence. Or simply dont care. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Editors Note: Steven Lubet is the Williams Memorial Professor Emeritus at the Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law. He is coauthor of Judicial Conduct and Ethics (fifth edition), and has written many other books. The views expressed in this commentary are his own. View more opinion on CNN. Federal Judge Tanya Chutkan got it exactly right when she declined on Wednesday to recuse herself from special prosecutor Jack Smiths case against former President Donald Trump for illegally plotting to overturn the 2020 presidential election and for conspiring to corruptly obstruct and impede the January 6 congressional proceeding for counting electoral votes. Steven Lubet - Randy Belice Trump, who has denied all the charges against him, sought to disqualify the Washington, DC, district court judge based on a couple of statements she made in sentencing two other defendants for the January 6 attack on the US Capitol, claiming that her comments demonstrated bias against him. Although Trumps legal argument was strained and poorly supported (two judicial ethics experts in Slate called it ridiculous), Chutkan still took it seriously. Therefore, when she rejected the motion, it was via a thorough and well-reasoned opinion. The premise of Trumps claim, as set out by his attorneys, is that Chutkan made Disqualifying Statements (a term they capitalized for emphasis) in two earlier cases involving other defendants. But as Chutkan explained, a reasonable person would understand that her statements at the time she made them had nothing to do with Trumps or anyone elses potential guilt in a hypothetical future case. The first statement was that a defendant who stormed the Capitol committed her crime out of blind loyalty to one person who, by the way, remains free to this day. The other statement acknowledged a different defendants very good point that the people who exhorted you and encouraged you and rallied you to go and take action and to fight have not been charged. According to Trump, these comments, plucked out of context from the dozens of similar cases over which Chutkan presided, were evidence that she had prejudged the core questions of [his] guilt or innocence. In fact, her comments were made in response to the two defendants pleas for leniency, in which they claimed to have been misled and provoked by others, including Trump himself. The applicable federal statute requires recusal whenever the judges impartiality might reasonably be questioned, but the Supreme Court has articulated an exceptionally demanding standard for disqualifying a judge on the basis of in-court statements. In Liteky v. US, the late Justice Antonin Scalia held that such intrajudicial statements require recusal in only the rarest circumstances when they display a deep-seated favoritism or antagonism that would make fair judgment impossible. Far from prejudging Trumps culpability, Chutkan was simply responding to the defendants arguments, explaining that she found them unconvincing, which the law requires when imposing sentence. As Chutkan explained in her ruling, it was her obligation to consider each defendants relative culpability [as] a potential mitigating factor, which was what her statements acknowledged. With nothing close to meeting Scalias standard of displaying antagonism, deep-seated or otherwise, Chutkan merely recognized that certain defendants were attempting to blame Trump for inspiring their crimes, an observation that did not preclude fair judgment in Trumps own later case. In fact, Chutkan made it clear at the time that she does not make charging decisions, adding I sentence people who have pleaded guilty or have been convicted. The issue of who has or has not been charged is not before me. I dont have any influence on that. Chutkans decision put it in the simplest possible terms: Her statements were made in the course of prior judicial proceedings, did not pertain to Defendants case, and contained nothing akin to the explicit and often disparaging expressions of opinion required to disqualify a federal judge. Attorney John Lauro leaves a hearing in the US Justice Department's federal criminal case against his client, former President Donald Trump, on August 28, 2023. - Kevin Wurm/Reuters Given the available facts and the controlling law, the chances of successfully disqualifying Chutkan were all but nonexistent from the outset. Indeed, Trumps lead attorney, the prominent Florida defense lawyer John Lauro, initially balked at even bringing the motion, diplomatically saying that he would be very careful of those issues and handle them with the utmost delicacy. Trump, on the other hand, is famous for seeking to oust judges he considers biased, which by his definition seems to be pretty much anyone he didnt nominate (and no doubt including some of those he did). He began agitating for Chutkans removal almost as soon as she was assigned the case, declaring that the prosecutor, Smith, had drawn the Judge of his dreams and denouncing her as she (WHO MUST BE RECUSED!). It is never easy to say no to a client, and it is presumably almost impossible when the client is Trump. As in every US jurisdiction, the District of Columbia has adopted Rules of Professional Conduct that govern lawyers interactions with clients, opposing counsel and the courts. Rule 1.2 requires a lawyer to abide by a clients decisions concerning the objectives of representation, and Rule 1.3 further provides that counsel must seek the lawful objectives of a client through reasonably available means permitted by law. Not every lawyer makes every possible motion, especially when there is no powerful client demanding scorched earth. Smith, for instance, refrained from seeking the recusal of US District Judge Aileen Cannon in Trumps prosecution for concealing documents at Mar-a-Lago, despite her blatant favoritism in multiple rulings toward the former president she was rebuked for them by the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals in an earlier case challenging the governments search warrant. Rightly, she has not responded to those rebukes. Recusal denials are not ordinarily appealable in the middle of a case. That probably wont stop Trump from attempting to obtain an emergency review in the Court of Appeals or even the Supreme Court. His chances of succeeding in a higher court are negligible, however, and it is a safe bet that this case will proceed to trial with Judge Tanya Chutkan presiding. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com MANILA, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines will start allowing unlicensed nurses to work as "critical care associates" in hospitals and health facilities to address the country's healthcare staffing shortage, the Presidential Commission on Communications (PCO) said on Thursday. The PCO said that Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos gave the go signal to allow underboard nurses to work, stressing the need to overcome the handicaps of the Philippines' healthcare system. "It allows those nursing graduates who have taken their boards and have not been able to pass the board this time will be allowed to work nonetheless if they can establish their competencies in certain subjects of the nursing curriculum, and that way they can get work immediately," the PCO quoted Marcos as saying. The Philippines' Department of Health (DOH) estimated a shortage of 114,743 nurses in the country as of December 2022. According to the government's Professional Regulatory Commission, only 53.55 percent of registered nurses are now active due to stress and salary issues, while years of massive migration of Filipino health workers to foreign countries have exacerbated the shortage of workforce in the industry. Surong Li, 29, of Irvine was arrested on suspicion of grand theft, possession of a fake identification and theft by false pretense. (Irvine Police Department) An Orange County woman was arrested Wednesday on suspicion of stealing more than $200,000 from people through a rental scam. Irvine resident Surong Li, 29, was arrested on charges of grand theft, possession of a fake identification and theft by false pretense, according to an Irvine Police Department news release. Li allegedly represented herself as a property manager and made lease agreements with victims for properties she did not represent, police said. Li faked the existence of some rental properties or never transferred money to the actual property owner, police said. Read more: Column: They each lost almost $80,000. How to avoid becoming the next scam victim To avoid such scams, the Federal Trade Commission recommends taking precautions, such as: Search online for "complaint," "review" or "scam" along with the name of the property owner or rental company to see what other people's experiences are. Look at the property in person or do a virtual tour before you pay or sign. Ask for a business card issued by the rental company and check the rental agent's ID to make sure it matches records. Search county or city tax assessment websites if dealing with a private landlord. Make sure the landlord's ID matches the records. After getting the rental price, consider if it's much lower than the rest of the rents in the area. Never give financial or personal information to anyone who contacts you claiming to be working with the rental company or owner. Contact the owner or company with the contact information you have. Never pay with gift cards, cash, wire transfers or cryptocurrency. Anyone who asks for payment that way is most likely a scammer. The California Department of Real Estate issued a statewide consumer alert last year after seeing a rise in identity theft scams. Scammers were taking information from current "for sale" listings and posting the residences for rent on other sites. Scammers also used homes that were previously for rent and made it look like they were back on the market. Sometimes, scammers use the name of the rental company to get people to transfer rent, deposits and fees electronically. Other scams involved using fraudulent rental applications to get information such as driver's license number, Social Security number and bank account numbers to steal identities. 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. A St. Augustine doctor awaiting an October federal sentencing hearing for prescribing pills for sexual favors and drug trafficking was rearrested by Ormond Beach police in a separate case on accusations he raped one of his patients in April 2021. Scott A. Hollington, 58, who ran addiction and mental health treatment centers, was charged Sept. 20 with sexual battery. He was being held Thursday in the Volusia County Branch Jail without bail. Police said Hollington raped the woman during one of four appointments when she was his patient at his Ormond Beach office at Advanced Practice Nursing Services at 565 Memorial Circle. According to investigators with the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office and Ormond Beach police, Hollington operated Sawgrass Health in St. Augustine, and Advanced Practice Nursing Services in Ormond Beach. Ormond Beach police said that while investigating sexual and inappropriate behavior complaints on Hollington, they met with St. Johns County sheriff's investigators and learned they were working similar cases. Court deputy sex with drug court women Woman: I was 'seduced, used' by Volusia drug court deputy Ormond Police: Sexual relations by force or intimidation In reports provided to the News-Journal by Ormond Beach police, in 2019 victims started reporting on Hollington's inappropriate behavior and sexual misconduct during their appointments. The women were all middle-aged, unmarried, and were victims of sexual abuse during their childhood and juvenile years. They reported that during appointments Hollington would ask to hug them. And when he did he would moan, reports state. Other women had their backs and stomachs rubbed and were asked questions about dating that included sexually explicit language. In other instances, Hollington would step between them and the door at the end of therapy barring them from leaving. He would tell them he loved them and asked for photos of them. In one case, Hollington sent photos of himself to a victim at the end of a therapy session, police said. In all, Ormond Beach police have worked seven cases involving sexual complaints, battery, and inappropriate behavior by Hollington, documents show. In some instances, although no crime occurred, the victims' accounts showed that Hollington had "a clear grooming pattern," and a "clear pattern of inappropriate doctor behavior," investigators wrote in their reports. Hollington would display aggressive behavior, and even withheld medication from the victims who have suffered some traumatic experiences in their lives, police said. "After speaking with all the victims, it is clear that the defendant selected potential victims whom all have a history of physical, sexual or drug abuse," Ormond Beach police detectives wrote in their reports. "This pattern shows the defendant's (Hollington's) attempts to groom his clients into a sexual relationship whether by force or intimidation." The rape Ormond Beach police said that in June 2021, a woman called them to report she was sexually battered. The woman reported that on April 27, 2021, during a fourth visit to Hollington, his behavior escalated from talking about his mistress, rubbing her hand, hugging her tight to raping her. The rape case was on hold because of staff shortage and turnover in the Ormond Beach police detectives unit, and was not revisited until April of this year, the department said. The victim reported that Hollington pushed her to the ground, removed her pants and digitally penetrated her, injuring her. In that case, Hollington also forced the victim to perform oral sex on him, documents show. He then let the woman go telling her he loved her, police said. Pills for sexual favors In November 2022, the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office Special Investigations Unit said in a news release that with the help of the Drug Enforcement Administration, it started investigating Hollington in August 2021. Hollington was investigated for prescribing controlled substances, in exchange for sexual favors and without a legitimate medical purpose, the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office said. Numerous undercover operations that took more than a year were conducted at Hollington's clinics. Investigators said they determined that Hollington illegally prescribed drugs, and used several mid-level practitioners that ran a telemedicine operation for him. Search warrants were executed at Hollington's residence and Sawgrass Health, both in St. Augustine. In addition to Hollington's arrest, investigators seized digital evidence, an undetermined amount of cash and solid gold coins, according to the St. Johns County sheriff's November news release. Once the investigation was completed, United States Attorney Roger Handberg for the Middle District of Florida announced on Oct. 27, 2022, that Hollington was indicted on 10 counts of distribution of controlled substances and one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office said. The indictment also notified Hollington that the United States government intended to revoke his medical license, investigators with the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office said. Convicted of 19 counts of drug trafficking According to a report by the Florida Times-Union, in July jurors in a week-long federal trial convicted Hollington, finding him guilty of 19 counts of drug trafficking and obstruction of justice. Hollington ran a pill mill and sexually exploited women, who were his patients, trading pills for sex, the report states. According to the Times Union report, Hollington, was still practicing medicine while awaiting sentencing. In the trial undercover agents testified that Hollington prescribed stimulants and other addictive drugs without showing any legitimate medical need or conducting medical evaluations, according to the report. In one instance, an undercover agent filled a urine sample cup with tap water and Hollington accepted it, according to testimony at the federal trial. It was at this trial that the sexual assault allegations surfaced. Four women testified that Hollington either extorted, suggested or attempted to force sexual acts on them in exchange for prescription pills. This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Scott Andrew Hollington, Florida therapist, charged with patient's rape The Arizona Humane Society's director of field operations, Tracey Miiller, speaks to the media at the Humane Society's South Mountain location in Phoenix on Sept. 23, 2023. She informed the press about an operation with the Chandler Police Department to seize 55 dogs during a rescue the day before. Chandler police requested help from the public, rescue organizations and veterinary professionals after 50 animals found living in poor conditions were seized from a Chandler home last week. Following the arrest of April McLaughlin, who faces charges of 55 counts of animal abuse, 55 counts of animal cruelty and one count of vulnerable adult abuse, police were looking for additional information involving the dogs before they were adopted by Special Needs Animal Welfare League (SNAWL), the rescue organization run by McLaughlin out of her Chandler home. Police specifically asked for any photos and veterinary records of the animals to document their condition before they were under the organization's care. Additionally, police also asked anyone who donated money to SNAWL to contact them with information regarding the rescue name, web link, date(s), donation amount(s) and any supporting documents. A spokesperson with the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office confirmed to The Arizona Republic that McLaughlin was released from jail on Wednesday. As of Friday morning, Chandler police said they did not have any new information on the case and that the investigation was ongoing. The charges suggested against McLaughlin which are reviewed by the Maricopa County Attorney's Office before an actual indictment were sent back to the Chandler Police Department "for further investigation," Karla Navarrete-Contreras, a spokesperson for MCAO told The Arizona Republic. According to the Arizona Humane Society, the Chandler Police Department received information about an ongoing case of alleged animal abuse that began in early September. The Humane Society said the information prompted a search warrant. During the search of the house, animals were taken from the property into the Humane Society's care. According to a Facebook post on the organization's account, more than 50 special needs pets were found, many of which needed immediate medical attention. "This warrant could not have come soon enough for these at-risk animals who are now being directly transported to our trauma hospital where our veterinary team will provide much-needed medical care," the Humane Society's Facebook post read. The dogs were taken to an animal hospital in Sunnyslope where they are receiving medical treatment, according to Tracy Miiller a field operations director for the Arizona Humane Society. Police are asking that any information about the animals and SNAWL to be sent to the email dedicated to the investigation: specialinvestigation@chandleraz.gov This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Chandler police seek public help in animal abuse investigation Californias top wage theft watchdog has cited five restaurants and their owner for allegedly cheating more than 550 workers out of the state minimum wage and overtime, as well as premiums for missed meal breaks. Clinton Lewis, who owns five Kern County franchise locations of the national chain Wingstop, owes nearly $3.2 million for wage theft violations. The California Labor Commissioners Office, within the Department of Industrial Relations, opened the investigation into Lewis and his restaurants in November 2020 after receiving a labor law violation report for one of the locations, the office said Thursday. Investigators found that between 2019 and 2022, Lewis operated each Wingstop location as a separate corporate entity, which made it look like each restaurant was a different employer. This meant Lewis could get away with paying employees a lower minimum wage that applied, at the time, to employers with fewer than 25 employees. (As of Jan. 1, 2023, all California employers regardless of size must pay a $15.50 minimum wage, and the amount will rise to $16 starting next year.) Employees who were scheduled to work at more than one of Lewiss restaurants in a single day were denied overtime pay, even if they clocked in more than eight hours in a workday or 40 hours in a workweek, investigators found. Lewis also failed to compensate employees for missed meal break premiums when they were scheduled to work at more than one location. Citations were given to Hot Wing Holdings Group, Inc.; the Northwest Bakersfield Wing Company Inc.; the East Bakersfield Wing Company Inc.; the Bakersfield Wing Company, Inc. and the Southeast Bakersfield Wing Company Inc. Lewis was also personally cited. Lewis and his corporate entities owe workers $190,741 in minimum wage violations, $4,323 for contract wages, $57,312 for overtime, $87,656 for meal premiums, $238,569 for liquidated damages and $1,307,980 for waiting time penalties. The citations also include interest on those penalties totaling $77,124, all of which are payable to a total of 551 employees. Lewis and his restaurants also owe civil penalties totaling $1,197,900. This case highlights abuses that take place in low-wage industries such as franchised fast-food restaurants where separate corporate entities are created by the same employer to improperly lower labor costs, said Labor Commissioner Lilia Garcia-Brower in a statement. The law is clear that such corporate schemes undercut law-abiding employers and circumvent worker protections. The news of the violations came on the same day that Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a law that will raise the fast food minimum wage to $20 an hour starting next April. The law also creates a fast food council that will oversee wages and working conditions for the entire industry across the state. The new law, previously known as Assembly Bill 1228, represents a compromise made between union-supported fast-food workers and the restaurant industry, who were previously set to face off on a ballot referendum that was estimated to cost millions of dollars on both sides. The fast-food workers originally pushed for a bill that would make franchise corporations, such as Wingstop, jointly liable for violations committed by their franchisees. In exchange for dropping the bill, the restaurant industry agreed to the $20 minimum wage and also to dropping a referendum against a previously signed law that would create the fast food council. Repair work on soundbound lanes of I-110 will likely not begin until late October at the earliest, MDOT Public Information Officer Anna Ehrgott said Wednesday. A formal bridge inspection took place on Friday, Sept. 22 following the Sept. 19 fire that damaged the bridge, MDOT said. A report from the formal inspection determined that the damage to the bridge columns and bridge deck is extensive and that in the interest of public safety, a portion of southbound lanes of the bridge should remain closed until repairs are completed. A three-step process has to be completed before crews can start repairs on the bridge. First, MDOT is expecting to receive repair recommendations from an engineering firm by the end of the week. Next, the firm will then create plans for the recommended repairs in a process that is estimated to take 10 work days. Then, MDOT will select a contractor to perform the repairs in a process, which typically takes about seven work days. Once the contractor has been selected and received approval from Mississippi Transportation Commission, the contractor can begin the repairs. MDOT does not currently know how long the repairs will take. The I-110 bridge has been closed since Sept. 19 after a fire occurred in a tractor trailer underneath the bridge, causing damage. MDOT District Construction Engineer Scott White told WXXV that its believed a trailer containing traffic control equipment belonging to the city of Biloxis was set on fire, causing the damage. The Biloxi Fire Department is investigating. As Cruisin the Coast, a major traffic event, approaches next week, Ehrgott stresses that drivers should be patient. About 51,000 vehicles travel the I-110 corridor daily, according to MDOT. WASHINGTON The growth of additive manufacturing is a game changer for the military one that can facilitate everything from rapid repairs to aircraft after bird strikes to accelerating the development of hypersonic weapons, a top Defense Department official said Wednesday. Keith DeVries, deputy director of the Office of the Secretary of Defenses Manufacturing Technology Program, said in a Defense News webcast Wednesday that additive manufacturing has made tremendous leaps in the last few years and opened up novel possibilities for creating new weapons and components. Additive manufacturing has particularly come in handy when designing new systems, DeVries said, allowing programs to iterate during the rapid prototyping process much more quickly than in traditional manufacturing processes. It has also been used to create one-off spare parts to repair aircraft or other systems that might otherwise have to wait long periods for a replacement component to work its way through a slow supply chain, he said. Weve even seen bird strikes repaired on aircraft overnight, or in a few days, through additive manufacturing, DeVries added. 3D printers can also quickly create new tools, which typically take a long time to arrive when they are made in traditional ways, he said. And DeVries said the scale of objects that can be 3D printed is also increasing, to the point where entire structures such as houses can be built that way. The Defense Department has taken notice of those advancements, he said, and is looking for ways to apply them. In the defense side having the ability to print a runway or a hangar or something literally overnight can be amazing, DeVries said. Additive manufacturing has advanced since its early days, when it made objects from more fragile polymers to materials with higher tensile strength. Today, DeVries said, these manufacturing techniques create objects from high-entropy metals that are particularly strong and stand up to wear and tear, using lasers to melt metals that can withstand high temperatures and allowing more complex shapes to be crafted. Those advancements have been fundamental unto themselves, DeVries said. Now, it feels like were turning a corner and were trying to find what the sweet spot is for how big of a build volume is appropriate for us to apply that technology. And hypersonic weapons are a prominent example of a program where additive manufacturing can be useful. Scramjet propulsion systems that are central to some hypersonics, for example, require complex chambers that can be difficult to make, DeVries said. But 3D printing these components is allowing hypersonic weapons manufacturers some fantastic capabilities, he said. Additive manufacturing would allow scramjet components to be made from high-temperature metals in a way that eliminates the need to have complex welds or brazing joints, DeVries said. Those joints need to be tested to ensure theyre sound, he said, but a component made via additive manufacturing that doesnt have those joints wont need such testing. Being able to incorporate additive manufacturing is enabling us to manufacture complexity that has not been able under the subtractive, traditional manufacturing methods, DeVries said. He noted hypersonic development is still in the rapid prototyping phase. But DeVries said traditional manufacturing techniques such as casting and forging still have a place, and warned the DoD and manufacturers should only seek to replace those techniques with additive manufacturing in a very intentional and frankly limited way. We want to treat [additive manufacturing] as a tool in the toolkit, and we want to apply it exactly where its necessary, and where it adds the most value, DeVries said. The American flag flew at half-mast, suspended from a Paso Robles fire engine, as first responders, elected officials from around SLO County and Paso Robles community members gathered Wednesday evening at the Downtown City Park to celebrate the life and legacy of late Paso Robles Mayor Steve Martin . More than 100 people turned out to the memorial to share stories about the late mayor and salute his accomplishments on behalf of Paso Robles and the North County. Martin died from an aggressive form of cancer in August. He was 71 and had just been elected to his fourth term as mayor in November 2022 when he was later diagnosed. Elected officials, city staff remember Paso Robles mayor The celebration of life opened with an honorary aerial flyover for Martin by the Estrella Warbirds Museum in the shape of the missing man formation. Current Mayor of Paso Robles, John Hamon, who assumed the role after Martins death, delivered the opening remarks. The essence of Steve Martins life was a dedicated service to others, Hamon said. Steve chose that life of service. Paso Robles Mayor John Hamon speaks at a memorial for late Mayor Steve Martin at the Downtown City Park on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. Paso Robles City Manager and former police chief Ty Lewis recognized Martins commitment to the citys first responders and public safety. The mayors contributions to the city of Paso Robles extended beyond institutions and policy and into the social fabric of the community, Lewis said. Martin built a community where everyone felt seen, heard and valued, Lewis said. City manager Ty Lewis speaks about Steve Martins support of city staff and his vision for the future during a memorial for Paso Robles late mayor at the Downtown City Park on Sept. 27, 2023. San Luis Obispo County Supervisor John Peschong spoke about how, despite running against Martin for the District 1 supervisor seat in the 2016 election, the politicians later became friends who met for breakfast monthly. I learned a lot from him, Peschong said of Martin. Martins commitment to courtesy and productive discourse helped inform the political code of civility, which was signed by the seven mayors and five supervisors and hangs today in the board chambers, he said. Steve spent a lifetime investing in people, former Atascadero Mayor Tom OMalley said. OMalley was childhood best friends with Martin, a friendship that continued into adulthood when both men served as mayors of the North County cities, referring to themselves as Dos Alcaldes, Spanish for two mayors. The American flag waves from a Paso Robles Fire Department truck as more than 100 people gathered to remember late Mayor Steve Martin at Downtown City Park on Sept. 27, 2023. Martin was committed to economic, social progress in Paso Robles Cal Poly Vice President of Information Technology Bill Britton spoke about Martins enthusiasm for transforming the Paso Robles Municipal Airport into a spaceport that could be used for commercial missions to space. Martin felt the spaceport project could transform the local economy and bring more high-earning jobs to Paso Robles. Britton reaffirmed Cal Polys commitment to collaborating with the city of Paso Robles to see Martins plans for the spaceport come to fruition. William Britton, vice president of information technology at Cal Poly, talks about efforts to designate Paso Robles Airport as a Spaceport, an effort championed Steve Martin, during a memorial for Paso Robles late mayor at the Downtown City Park on Sept. 27, 2023. Martin was also committed to helping the underserved. Martin and OMalley spent the occasional night at the El Camino Homeless Organization Shelter in Atascadero, helping to read stories to the children and serve breakfast in the morning, OMalley said. ECHO CEO Wendy Lewis said it was Martins ability to build consensus that helped bring the ECHO shelter to Paso Robles. Martin was the fabric that brought people to together, Lewis said. His belief that all Paso Roblans deserved shelter and dignity helped convince some detractors that the ECHO shelter could help the city of Paso Robles. Former mayor of Atascadero and friend Tom OMalley shares memories of Steve Martin at a memorial for the late Paso Robles mayor. Over 100 people gathered to remember Martin at the Downtown City Park on Sept. 27, 2023. Atascadero childhood friends to North County elected officials OMalley and Gere Sibbach, current treasurer of Atascadero, both performed music with Martin as part of the community band in Atascadero. Sibbach recalled Martins musical talent, calling him the pinch hitter for the rock band they later formed, with Martin able to step in to fill whatever need the band might require. It was while performing in Wisconsin that Martin met Jennifer, his wife of more than 50 years, Sibbach said. Sibbachs voice broke when he talked about Martins love for his family, which included Jennifer, his daughters Nora and Jamie and spiritual daughter Carrie. Gere Sibbach shares memories of his friendship with Steve Martin, which began in high school, during a memorial for the late Paso Robles mayor at the Downtown City Park on Sept. 27, 2023. John Hamon and Tom OMalley are at right. Most of all, he wanted more time with her, OMalley said of Martins wife, Jennifer. The service concluded with Jennifer Martin reading a note she wrote at her husbands bedside, reflecting on his many contributions to the community of Paso Robles and her grief at the time they wont be able to share together after his death. Martin was a renaissance man politician, musician, playwright, journalist, broadcaster, father but he also loved radio, Jennifer Martin said. He truly is indeed the voice of Paso, she said. Jennifer Martin, widow of late Paso Robles Mayor Steve Martin, spoke about her husband of nearly 50 years at a memorial on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. Over 100 people gathered to honor Martin at the Downtown City Park. PHNOM PENH, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has signed up to provide 43 million U.S. dollars to Cambodia for a cross-border livestock health and value chain infrastructure improvement project, according to Cambodia's Ministry of Economy and Finance on Thursday. Pen Thirong, undersecretary of state at the Cambodian Ministry of Economy and Finance, signed the cooperation financing agreement with an AIIB representative on Tuesday on the sidelines of the eighth annual meeting of the AIIB's board of governors in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, said the ministry. The financing package included 33 million dollars in concessional financing from the AIIB and 10 million dollars in grant from the Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response Facility Trust Fund, it added. The project aims to improve the production and raising of animals with quality and hygiene, strengthen the safety and health of animals and human, and prevent and control infectious diseases, it said. It will also promote cross-border animal trade among the countries of the Greater Mekong Subregion, it said, adding that the project will be carried out in Phnom Penh and the provinces of Kampong Cham, odder Meanchey, Prey Veng, Siem Reap, and Takeo. Thirong said the cross-border livestock health and value chain infrastructure improvement project was the third financing project provided by the AIIB to the Southeast Asian country since 2020. "Cooperation financing provided by the AIIB to Cambodia has been making significant contributions to the development of physical infrastructure and the recovery of the Cambodian economy from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic," he said. With the threat of a looming government shutdown, many federal employees could be furloughed, or may have to report for work without pay including military service members. Georgia has the fifth highest number of Department of Defense employees in the country, according to the Georgia Department of Economic Development, with at least eight military installations across the Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marines. Even if a government shutdown does occur, however, military bases will carry on with their essential duties. "In the event of a shutdown, the Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield U.S. Army Garrison team will continue to deliver life, health, and safety services for those working and living on the installation," wrote Kevin Larson, chief of public communications for Fort Stewart near Savannah. "We remain in communication with our team and will continue to provide specific information as events unfold." Other than that, Larson said they are still awaiting official guidance. Fort Gordon echoed that sentiment. By the numbers: A look at who in Georgia may be impacted by a government shutdown Would gov't shutdown affect air travel? Georgia airports may see delays, worker shortages "We are awaiting official guidance and cannot speculate on impacts until we receive it," wrote Anne H. Bowman, deputy public affairs officer at Fort Gordon, in an email. "In the event of a shutdown, the Fort Gordon team will continue to deliver life, health, and safety services for those working and living on the installation." According to the Department of Defense, services on bases could be limited, including postponing elective surgeries and closing commissaries in the U.S. (although not overseas). At the end of the shutdown, people who worked unpaid hours will receive backpay. On Fort Gordon in Augusta, civilian employees represented by T.W.U. Local 527 will likely continue to be paid, said Benyoel Morgan, president of the local. On Fort Gordon, members do facility maintenance for buildings and infrastructure, facility maintenance at Eisenhower Hospital, and logistics support including vehicle and electronic maintenance. "If there is a contract in place that's funded, and our members are considered essential workers, they will probably continue working," Morgan said. "If the contract is fully funded, then they'll get paid while they're working, but because they're essential personnel, if it's not funded, potentially they could be working without getting paid right away." The workforce was considered essential during the COVID-19 pandemic and during the last shutdown, Morgan said. One contract is incrementally funded, and should extend through the shutdown, the others are fully funded Morgan said. Still, things change. "We should be good, and it has worked out that way over time, but until it actually happens and we're past that and still working, nobody's feeling comfortable," Morgan said. When will the government shut down? The U.S. is two days away from a shutdown a situation moving from possible to likely as Congress has failed to cut through gridlock and reach a deal to fund the federal government. Millions of Americans will be impacted if lawmakers can't reach a deal before 12:01 a.m. Oct. 1. A shutdown would impact the country's largest food assistance programs, federally funded preschool, federal college grants and loans, food safety inspections, national parks and more. When was the last government shutdown? There have been 21 federal shutdowns over the last five decades, with four since 2000. 2013 : Under President Barack Obama. Lasted 17 days. 2018 : Under President Donald Trump. Lasted three days. 2018 : Under President Donald Trump. Lasted several hours. 2019: President Donald Trump. Lasted 35 days. USA TODAY reporters Candy Woodall, Rachel Looker, Savannah Kuchar, Sudiksha Kochi and Marina Pitofsky contributed to this story. This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Government shutdown: Georgia military service members will see no pay Former Vice President Mike Pence during Wednesday evenings Republican presidential debate all but avoided answering a question about what he would do to address rising violence against LGBTQ people if he is elected next year, instead offering up a plan to champion the rights of parents in schools and ban gender-affirming health care for transgender people. As president of the United States, Ill stand up for the safety and the civil liberties of every American from every background, Pence said in response to a question from moderator Ilia Calderon. And I want the American people to know that. Pence did not elaborate on his answer to Calderons question, which had referenced a May Department of Homeland Security briefing that warned of intensifying violence against the nations LGBTQ community. The former governor of Indiana instead pivoted sharply to education. He told moderators and an audience gathered at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif., that he has been sleeping with a teacher for 38 years. His wife, Karen, an art teacher, most recently taught at Immanuel Christian School in northern Virginia, which prohibits openly gay parents and students from attending. Christie takes swipe at Jill Biden: President is sleeping with a member of the teachers unions Pence touted Indianas school choice program, which he said doubled under his leadership. He also criticized transgender student support policies that exclude parents. Thats not bad policy thats crazy, he said. Were going to stand up for the rights of parents, and were going to pass a federal ban on transgender chemical or surgical surgery anywhere in the country, Pence said. He did not specify whether such a ban would be limited to transgender minors or whether it would extend to transgender adults. State-level bans on gender-affirming medical care enacted this year in states including Florida and Missouri have left some transgender adults scrambling to access care that is considered medically necessary by every major medical organization. Twenty-two states in total have passed laws that ban gender-affirming care for transgender youths, including 19 that did so this year. Weve got to protect our kids from this radical gender ideology agenda, Pence said Wednesday. Weve got to empower parents at the state level with the ability to choose where their kids go to school, whether its public, private, parochial or homeschool. You empower parents, and our schools will straighten up and reflect our values and focus on the basics faster than you can imagine, he said. Earlier in the debate, fellow GOP presidential contender Vivek Ramaswamy said being transgender is a mental health disorder and vowed to ban gender-affirming health care as president. Ramaswamy did not say whether that ban would include care for adults. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Former Vice President Mike Pence said former President Trumps remarks about Gen. Mark Milley , the outgoing chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, were uncalled for. Theres no call for that kind of language directed towards someone whos worn the uniform of the United States and served with just distinction, Pence said Thursday on CNN. Look, I havent agreed with every decision that the chairman of the Joint Chiefs, who just retired, made over the last two years, but Im pretty sure most of those came out of the Biden administration, you know, pushing their political correctness and woke politics at the Pentagon. Pences remarks echo other criticism of the former presidents swipes at Milley last week, where he suggested the top military official deserved the death penalty over calls he made to China at the end of Trumps term. This is an act so egregious that, in times gone by, the punishment would have been DEATH! Trumps post read. A war between China and the United States could have been the result of this treasonous act. To be continued!!! Milley said Wednesday he will take appropriate measures to make sure he and his family are safe in response to Trumps comments. Ive got adequate safety precautions, the military leader said in response to a question about his concern about his safety from CBSs Norah ODonnell. Pence also said Americans want to restore a threshold of civility in public life when discussing Trumps attack on Milley. And one of the things I hear when Im out on the street out campaigning is that people know that, that I put a high premium on civility and on speaking in a respectful way, he said, even when we disagree I keep it on policy, not on personal invective. And I think its one of the reasons why I grow more confident by the day that were going to turn the page on, on this difficult and divisive time in our nation, the former vice president added. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A Pennsylvania man was arrested Wednesday after threatening to kill a Volusia County Sheriffs deputy. Deputies said Jason Senseman messaged a social media account of the TV show On Patrol: Live stating he would kill a Volusia sheriffs deputy. WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS According to a news release, one of those messages stated, I would kill Royce James, a Volusia deputy who was featured on the show. That message was preceded by others stating, I am not scared of killing anyone and some of your officers are worthy of death. On Patrol: Live notified the Sheriffs Office on Sunday, and detectives made contact with law enforcement in Pennsylvania, where officers were aware of the messages and also already familiar with Senseman. Read: More lawsuits on the horizon for Good Samaritan as Ian anniversary passes After being taken in custody, the 51-year-old admitted to sending the messages while watching the show and drinking, and that no one else uses his phone or his Facebook account. Read: This program is a relief: Melbourne Police tout success of new mental health Mobile Response Team Sensemans is being charged with a second-degree felony that carries a bond of $100,000 and will be extradited to Volusia County at a later date. Read: Altamonte Springs police officer accused of fleeing traffic stop in Deltona Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. The News The Pentagon has launched an investigation into a top-secret security clearance approved for a U.S. defense official who took part in an Iranian government-backed initiative, beginning a decade ago, which sought to promote Tehrans positions on national security issues in the U.S. and other Western countries. Semafor and Iran International published articles on Tuesday about this project, called the Iran Experts Initiative, based on access to hundreds of leaked internal Iranian Foreign Ministry documents. Among the participants in the IEI, according to the correspondence, was Ariane Tabatabai, an Iranian-American academic who currently serves in the Pentagon as chief of staff for Christopher Maier, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low-Intensity Conflict. Maier appeared Thursday before a House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing and announced the probe into Tabatabai. We are actively looking into whether all law and policy was properly followed in granting my chief of staff top secret special compartmented information, he said in response to questioning from Republican lawmakers. Know More The U.S. government classifies compartmented information as coming from highly sensitive intelligence, sources, or analytic processes. Rep. Brian Mast, a Florida Republican, specifically asked whether the investigation would go back more than seven years, which is traditionally the timeframe through which background checks are conducted. Tabatabai first engaged with the Iran Experts Initiative in 2014, according to the Iranian government documents. I understand that they [the investigators] have discretion to look beyond that timeline, as is required, Maier said. The Pentagons public affairs office initially told Semafor that it stood by the vetting process that approved Tabatabais top-secret clearance. Tatababai initially joined the Biden administrations State Department in 2021 for a position on the U.S.s nuclear negotiating team with Iran, headed by Special Envoy Robert Malley. She then shifted to the Pentagon in 2022. Malley had his security clearance revoked in April and is currently under an FBI investigation looking into his handling of classified materials. In Semafors initial story on Tuesday, the Pentagon said: Dr. Tabatabai was thoroughly and properly vetted as a condition of her employment with the Department of Defense. We are honored to have her serve. Room for Disagreement Members named as part of the Iran Experts Initiative, as well as organizations whose members participated in it, have denied it was overseen or managed by Irans Foreign Ministry. Theyve described it as an informal forum financially backed by a European government and some European institutions but declined to name which ones. The Iranian correspondence on the IEI is a one-sided and self-congratulatory load of nonsense, tweeted Ali Vaez, an Iran expert at the International Crisis Group, who was named as part of the initiative. They either did not know or were spinning beyond recognition, an initiative by European think tankers, with support by a major European govt, to hold occasional policy discussions. The US Department of Defence (DoD) and the State Department differ in their views on providing one or another weapon to Ukraine. Source: European Pravda, citing Politico Quote from an anonymous official: "State is looking at opportunities, DOD is looking at threats. Folks at DOD would say they need to think about the pros and cons of each weapons decision, and that responsibility falls on them." Details: Thus, when assessing the need to deliver weapons to Kyiv, the State Department and the Pentagon come from different points of view and move at different speeds, Politicos source says. The article says that ATACMS long-range missiles, which President Joe Biden agreed to send to Ukraine last week after more than a year of debate, are a fresh example of how decisions are made in Washington because the Pentagon initially resisted their delivery because the US did not have a single free missile in its own arsenal. Unnamed US officials told the media that Pentagon leadership is taking a balanced approach to assessing Ukraine's needs on the battlefield in the context of the broader conflict. It is said that for now, US officials are still concerned about the escalation of the conflict, but they are increasingly focusing on ensuring that the Pentagon has enough weapons in its warehouses to protect against other contingencies. Background: It was previously reported that the administration of US President Joe Biden decided to provide Ukraine with long-range ATACMS missiles even before the visit of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the US but decided not to announce it publicly. According to the Financial Times, the US will send missiles in the near future, initially in small quantities, the media's sources said. NBC News says that Biden told Zelenskyy in a meeting at the White House that Washington would deliver a small number of ATACMS missiles to help in the war with Russia. Washington previously explained its refusal to deliver long-range missiles because the United States does not have sufficient stocks of these weapons. Another reason, which American officials did not publicly voice, is the fear of escalation on the part of 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! Sabrina Singh, US Defense Department Deputy Spokesperson, has said that the likely shutdown of the US government, which will see a temporary suspension of the US federal government, will affect the F-16 training program for Ukrainian pilots and technicians. Source: Sabrina Singh during a press briefing on 28 September Details: Singh said that a "government shutdown is a worst case scenario for the department" as far as training Ukrainian pilots to operate the F-16 fighter jets is concerned. She explained that in case of a shutdown, "service members would be required to continue working but would be doing so without pay and hundreds and thousands of their civilian colleagues would be furloughed." "[C]ivilian personnel that are involved in the training of Ukrainian pilots, such as English language training is what were talking about right now Absolutely, there could be impacts to training," Singh said. She added that the Pentagon hopes for a bipartisan decision by both bodies of the US Congress to avoid a shutdown. Background: The US Department of Defense announced last week that Ukrainian military personnel will arrive on US soil for F-16 training in the near future. The pilots will first undergo English language training in Texas and then begin several months of flight training in Arizona. A group of Ukrainian pilots started training on F-16 fighter jets in Denmark in August. Meanwhile, the Belgian government confirmed the country will take part in training Ukrainian pilots to operate the F-16s as part of the "fighter jet coalition", and Greece and Portugal announced that they will also train Ukrainian pilots. Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron! Editors note: For years, the Deseret News editorial page carried the epigraph: We stand for the Constitution of the United States as having been divinely inspired. In honor of Constitution Month, the Deseret News is publishing a variety of articles examining the Constitutions continued importance. Historically literate Americans identify James Madison as the father of the Constitution. Not so. As much as I admire Madison, the real father of the Constitution the man without whom it could never have been framed, ratified or implemented was George Washington. Washington saw the need for a strong, national constitution before almost anyone else. He provided indispensable leadership before, during and after the Constitutional Convention in 1787. He steered the Constitution and the new federal government through their first tumultuous years. He passed landmark constitutional judgments as president that established enduring precedents. And he provided, in his final farewell, one of the wisest and most far-seeing commentaries ever written about the U.S. constitutional order. No one elses influence on the Constitution comes close to Washingtons. Without James Madison, the Constitution would have looked very different. Without George Washington, it would never have been born. Without James Madison, the Constitution would have looked very different. Without George Washington, it would never have been born. Washington was alongside Abraham Lincoln the greatest constitutional leader in American history. He guided the American constitutional project for a quarter century from his appointment as commander of the Continental Army in 1775 until his resignation from the presidency in 1797. Washington led powerfully and effectively a position of fixed principles. I want to highlight five principles that I believe were central to Washingtons personal character and constitutional leadership: unity, liberty, duty, humility and faith. Unity Washington first learned the need for unity among the American colonies during the 1750s as a young soldier fighting in the French and Indian War. In his early to mid-20s, Washington saw how the failure of Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and other colonies to band together had disastrous consequences for the British armies. When Washington left soldiering in the late 1750s to woo and wed the wealthy widow, Martha Custis, he presciently observed that neighboring colonies needed to unite for purposes of transport and commerce. Sixteen years later, he saw their need to unite in a far more pressing cause. As commander of the Continental Army, Washington experienced firsthand the frustrations of a decentralized, disunited political order. Throughout the Revolutionary War, Washington cajoled members of Congress and state governors, with mixed success, to keep his army clothed, fed and in the field. At the end of the war, Washington called for an indissoluble union of the states under one federal head. Later, as president of the Constitutional Convention of 1787, Washington helped realize that vision. When the Constitution had been ratified, Washington made union the watchword of his presidency. He visited every state in the union and worked to welcome the Constitutions erstwhile opponents into the new republics fold. Washingtons final farewell to the American people included a prayer that your Union and brotherly affection may be perpetual, and that the free constitution, which is the work of your hands, may be sacredly maintained. A painting of George Washington is seen next to members of the Los Angeles Dodgers during an event honoring them for their 2020 World Series baseball championship at the White House on July 2, 2021, in Washington. | Julio Cortez, Associated Press Related Liberty As soldier, citizen and statesman, Washington was an impassioned champion of liberty. His commitment to liberty was capacious, encompassing freedoms many aspects. His devotion to religious liberty and press freedom was especially pronounced. In the case of religious liberty, Washington championed the rights of all believers and even nonbelievers. He considered religious freedom not only among the choicest of (the peoples) blessings, but also of their rights. Defying the pervasive anti-Catholicism of his time, Washington rebuked soldiers sharply for anti-Catholic expressions. As commander of the Continental Army, he attended the services of many sects. As president of the Constitutional Convention, he pointedly attended a Catholic Mass, thus signaling that Catholics would be warmly welcomed in the united American republic. As the countrys first president, Washington wrote beautiful letters to Jewish congregations, applauding their contributions and extolling religious freedom for all. For Washington religious freedom meant more than mere toleration. It is now no more that toleration is spoken of, he wrote, as if it was by the indulgence of one class of people that another enjoyed the exercise of their inherent natural rights. Instead, Washington wanted full freedom and flourishing for all. He prayed in biblical cadences that someday everyone shall sit in safety under his own vine and fig tree, and there shall be none to make him afraid. In the case of freedom of speech, Washington worked to ensure that even his political opponents enjoyed a fair hearing. As president, Washington faced strident and scurrilous abuse in the press including from a journalist hired by his own secretary of state, Thomas Jefferson. But Washington never abused his office to silence his critics. Duty In all his roles, Washington was scrupulously devoted to duty. He did what needed to be done, no matter the difficulty and despite the odds. By all accounts, his physical courage was astonishing. He seemed impervious and oblivious to bullets whizzing around him. After his first battle, Washington bragged to his brother with youthful bravado: I heard the bullets whistle, and believe me, there is something charming in the sound. And yet he acted, then and later, as if the ferocity of war emboldened him as if he had no sense of personal danger, no trace or semblance of fear. But duty meant more for Washington than physical courage and pluck. It meant honoring ones assigned role and never overstepping ones rightful authority. Throughout the war, Washington deferred unfailingly to Congress, even when he found the legislatures behavior maddening. This deference not only earned Washington the trust of the American people; it established forever the principle of civilian control over the military. One of Washingtons greatest moments came in 1783 when he quashed an incipient insurrection against congressional authority. That plot, fomented by Washingtons own officers, threatened to destroy the American republic before it properly took root. Few forces have done more than Washingtons example to preserve Americans from the military overlordship of a Napoleon or a Caesar. As president, Washington honored his oath to defend and uphold the Constitution. He knew that every decision he made would set an enduring precedent, and he weighed every decision accordingly. Many of those decisions regarding the scope of congressional authority, the presidents role in foreign affairs and much else have stood the test of time. Although he served in an executive capacity, Washington was arguably our first and greatest constitutional judge. Humility Washington made wise constitutional decisions in part because he had gifted advisers. He chose his counselors well, and he listened intently to what they had to say. Washington was a great listener. When Congress passed a controversial bill creating a national bank, Washington asked each member of his cabinet for written advice on whether the bill was constitutional and whether he should sign it. The clashing briefs of Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton on that issue remain some of our our most incisive statements of constitutional principle. Washington ultimately sided with Hamilton, rightly I believe, with profound precedential consequences for the rest of American history. It is sometimes said that Washington was self-conscious about his lack of formal education. And yet, Washington surrounded himself with men who were both younger and much better educated than he. Rather than assert his martial prowess or denigrate the book learning of his young aides, Washington stayed up late listening to what they had to say. He learned all he could from anyone willing to teach. He read good books and devoured newspapers. He was one of the best-informed Americans of his age. He was humble enough to seek improvement throughout his life. His humility formed the heart of his greatness. In no instance is Washingtons growth more striking than on the question of slavery. Early in his life, Washington was a product of the slaveholding milieu of Virginias Tidewater aristocracy. He spoke and wrote about enslaved persons with chilling severity. In 1767, he asked a correspondent to sell a slave named Tom in any of the Islands you may go to for whatever he will fetch. In the 1760s, slave transport to the Caribbean islands was a sentence to slow death in hellish conditions. But Tom, in Washingtons view, was both a rogue and a runaway, and should be handcuffed till you get to sea and sold at one of historys most ghoulish markets. The Revolution reshaped Washingtons views on slavery and race. Black soldiers fought bravely in Washingtons army. Many of Washingtons wartime aides Alexander Hamilton, John Laurens and Marquis de Lafayette were young antislavery idealists. Their views influenced the generals, though it is impossible to say how close Washington came to acting on their advice. He eventually wished to have nothing to do with slavery. But he couldnt quite see how to extricate himself from a system in which he was so deeply enmeshed or he couldnt quite bring himself to make the necessary sacrifices. As president, Washington stayed mostly silent regarding slavery. He calculated, perhaps accurately, that agitation about slavery would rend the union irreparably without undermining slavery. In his retirement, however, Washington finally decided to act. In his last will and testament, Washington freed every one of the enslaved persons held in his name. (He had no legal authority to manumit the dower slaves of his wife, Martha.) As a sign of his earnestness, Washington personally signed every page of his will. In 30 years, he had grown from a typical Virginia plantation enslaver into the countrys most prominent early emancipator. It was an impressive trajectory, though Washington like the rest of the country still had a long way to go. One visitor recalled the former president observing that, if the country were ever to divide by section and wage war over slavery, Washington intended to be of the northern part. Faith Washington was animated, through all the years of his public service, by profound religious faith. He often used terms like Providence rather than specifically Christian or even theist diction. But there can be no question that Washington believed in God, nor that he believed God had a special providence for the infant United States of America. Washington considered the Constitutions creation to be little short of a miracle. He saw in religion and morality two indispensable supports to political prosperity and constitutional liberty. In a 1790 letter to a Jewish congregation in Georgia, Washington praised the wonder-working Deity ... whose providential agency as lately been conspicuous in establishing these United States as an independent nation, and he prayed that this same God would make the inhabitants of every denomination participate in the temporal and spiritual blessings of that people whose God is Jehovah. Someone has said that you can always trust the American people to do the right thing after they have exhausted all the alternatives. Washington also had faith in the American people themselves. No one more than Washington had seen the people at their worst. He had many occasions to lament their fickleness, their fecklessness, and their overweening self-interested. But he believed that the American people were virtuous at their core and would come through in the end. Someone has said that you can always trust the American people to do the right thing after they have exhausted all the alternatives. At the end of the Revolutionary War, with victory finally secure, Washington worried that the newly independent people, like young heirs come a little prematurely perhaps to a large inheritance, might riot for a while. This was a circumstance which is to be lamented, Washington continued, but it would work its own cure because, he believed, there is virtue at the bottom. In our divided and divisive times, may we all work to vindicate Washingtons ancient confidence in the American people. May we show that there is still virtue at the bottom. Perhaps we could start by reaffirming Washingtons core principles of unity, liberty, duty, humility and faith. Justin Collings is a law professor at Brigham Young University and a scholar at the Wheatley Institute. People walk past a building where the Norwegian Data Protection Authority is located in Oslo, Norway, on Sept. 28, 2023. The Norwegian Data Protection Authority (Datatilsynet) has requested a binding decision from the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) in the Meta case. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuliang) OSLO, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Norwegian Data Protection Authority (Datatilsynet) has requested a binding decision from the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) in the Meta case. "In the request, we ask that the Norwegian temporary ban on behavioral advertising on Facebook and Instagram (owned by Meta) be made permanent and extended to the entire EU/EEA (European Union/European Economic Area)," the regulator said in a statement on Thursday. In July, Datatilsynet said it considered the U.S. technology giant's behavior-based marketing practices illegal as they excessively monitored user behavior. As a result, it argued, the company must halt such practices in Norway immediately. Datatilsynet is only authorized to make a temporary decision, which will expire on Nov. 3. "Therefore, we have asked the EDPB for a binding decision on the matter. We believe that our temporary ban must be made permanent. Furthermore, we believe that the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) must be interpreted consistently throughout the EU/EEA, and we ask for the ban to be extended to the rest of Europe," the statement said. Meta faces a compulsory fine of 1 million Norwegian kroner (93,380 U.S. dollars) per day, starting on Aug. 14, following its failure to comply with the ban in Norway. The tech giant subsequently filed for a temporary injunction in the Oslo District Court, asserting that Datatilsynet's directives were disproportionate, unfeasible and in conflict with other laws. However, in a judgment delivered on Sept. 6, the Oslo District Court fully endorsed Datatilsynet's action, dismissing Meta's plea for a temporary injunction to halt the fine and stating that there was no cause to undermine the regulator's judgment. Photo taken on Sept. 28, 2023 shows the building where the Norwegian Data Protection Authority is located in Oslo, Norway. The Norwegian Data Protection Authority (Datatilsynet) has requested a binding decision from the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) in the Meta case. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuliang) Attendees file out after Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnsons keynote address at the Gather Together Conference, part of the Utah Area YSA Conference, at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Aug. 19, 2023. | Megan Nielsen, Deseret News This week, millions of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will gather in homes and meetinghouses around the world to listen to inspiring messages. General conference, the biannual gathering of Latter-day Saints, is a natural time to reflect on the state of the church and its members. Theres a compelling story to tell from rising enrollment at church schools to record numbers of missionaries and growth in temples to expanding church membership and established financial sustainability amid economic and global upheaval. In more normal times, this would be a story of success. But given accelerating cultural headwinds against religiosity, the full storyline is even more dramatic. And yet, these more positive details are too often overlooked as part of the unfolding story of faith in society today. The dominant news headline is effectively captured in one skeptics comment recently featured in a Washington Post story, asserting that everywhere you look people are turning away from faith. Of course, many of us do see friends and family stepping away from religious participation. And lets be clear: Even one person walking away will always be cause for sorrow among former brothers and sisters of faith. But too little attention is given to the other side of the story, in a way that would provide a more accurate picture of at least one faith that continues to add members, wards and stakes each year. One recent analysis by the University of Chicagos Devin G. Pope leveraged cellphone data to examine weekly attendance at church across various faith groups. According to an early abstract of his study, he found that while there are 14 times more Americans identifying as Catholics than Latter-day Saints, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints had more comparative weekly attendees at church among over 2 million people sampled in the study. Additionally, data scientist Ryan Burge found that Utah, where 56% of the state affiliates with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has the highest rate of weekly church attendance in the country. Saddening disaffection amidst heartening growth, of course, is not a new phenomenon. Just 71 2 years after The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was established in 1830, between November 1837 and June 1838, possibly two or three hundred Kirtland Saints withdrew from the church, representing 10%-15% of the membership there, according to historian Milton Backman. Later, in a nine-month period in Missouri, Frederick G. Williams, a member of the First Presidency, four members of the Twelve Apostles, and several members of the First Quorum of the Seventy left the church. Since that period, however, the Church of Jesus Christ has grown over 1,000 times in size (from over 16,282 members to over 17 million today). Those numbers alone quite apart from media and social media amplification guarantee a higher likelihood of hearing more negative stories. Related Its young people, more than most, who can be vulnerable to often overstated messages of dwindling faith. And yet even there, we see clear indications that a popular narrative of youth with no interest in religion has been vastly oversimplified. After acknowledging that less importance is placed on religious participation by more recent generations overall, Justin Dyer at Brigham Young University recently highlighted data confirming a more nuanced picture. Broader trends of general youth disaffection do not hold for Latter-day Saint young people, whose attitudes among the recent generations millennials and Gen Z are on par with or actually more favorable to religion than some earlier generations. In comparing the generations when they were high school seniors, millennial Latter-day Saint youth feel religion is more important than all other generations, Dyer summarized. Furthermore, Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles recently announced that despite fewer children being born today in most countries, more missionaries are serving worldwide than ever before and there are expected to be over 72,000 missionaries serving by the end of 2023 (up from 56,000 at the end of 2021). In turn, convert baptisms have also increased and were up 25% in the first quarter of 2023 compared to the previous year. The signs of heightened engagement among young adults doesnt stop with missionaries. Look no further than the recent Utah Area YSA conference, Together in Christ, which represented the largest gathering of young single adults ever in the church. Enrollment at church schools is also up considerably over a 10-year window with approximately 145,000 total students enrolled in CES higher education. These are the kinds of figures that would need to be at least acknowledged in any sincere attempt to paint a complete picture of Latter-day Saint faith today. The fact is that there is still a demand for the spiritual, and the church can help fill that need. Empty pews notwithstanding, traditional religious beliefs like God, angels, heaven and hell are, even in 2023, still held by commanding majorities of the U.S. public, with only about a third of people not believing in the devil, and about a tenth not believing in God. Furthermore, Pew and others have predicted that the world will become increasingly religious over the next several decades as religious families have more children. While we might see pockets of growing irreligion here and there (and even those tend to be exaggerated, as strong majorities of Europeans still believe in God, and many in the biblical God), religion and spirituality has a powerful, natural part to play in our society, and the church is a part of that story. Whatever personal proclivities individual journalists and social media influencers may have about faith and religious community, heres to hoping that a desire for the full truth, fairness and objectivity can win out in the end. Even while rightfully scrutinizing the various challenges facing faith communities, lets not forget to take a moment to appreciate the many reasons to be encouraged by positive religious developments and hopeful about even better things on the horizon of faith today. Jacob Hess is the former editor of Public Square Magazine and is a contributing writer for Deseret News. Stephen Cranney is a nonresident fellow at Baylor Universitys Institute for the Studies of Religion and teaches at Catholic University of America. A Peruvian national is accused of making more than 150 fake bomb threats to U.S. institutions, according to charges unsealed Thursday in the Southern District of New York. Eddie Manuel Nunez Santos, 33, allegedly targeted school districts, synagogues, airports, hospitals and a shopping mall across multiple states with the false bomb threats. There are multiple bombs placed inside of all the schools from your school district. The bombs will blow up in a few hours. I will make sure everybody dies and rots from the bombs and then Ill gladly smile seeing their families suffer, he allegedly wrote in a Sept. 19 threat to multiple Pennsylvania school districts. The threat caused approximately 20 different schools in Pennsylvania to evacuate more than 1,100 schoolchildren, prosecutors said. The threats occurred between Sept. 15 and Sept. 21, and in some cases caused massive disruptions such as school evacuations, a hospital lockdown and flight delays, in the communities where they occurred. In several instances, the threats included reference to phone numbers or IP addresses belonging to teenage girls with whom Nunez Santos had been communicating under a fake identity, 15-year-old Lucas, according to the criminal complaint. When the girls refused to send him nude photos of themselves or cut off communications, he threatened to bomb their schools or kill them, sending the fake threats to schools near where they lived, according to the complaint. The defendant allegedly engaged in this reprehensible and socially destructive conduct in a twisted attempt to retaliate against teenage girls who refused his requests for nude and sexually explicit photographs, said Damian Williams, U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York. Nunez Santos is charged with threatening interstate communications, false information and hoaxes, attempted sexual exploitation of a child, attempted coercion and enticement of a minor and attempted receipt of child pornography. He was arrested by Peruvian authorities in Lima, Peru, Tuesday and faces decades in prison. Williams said that the five charges Nunez Santos faces shows that individuals wreaking havoc on our communities will not find safe haven merely because they do it from outside our borders. We will find you, and we will prosecute you, Williams said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The local Media Hub in Kharkiv has hosted the opening of photo exhibitions by cinematographer and soldier Serhii Mykhalchuk and military documentary photographers Vlada and Kostiantyn Liberov. These exhibitions are part of the Culture vs War project. Serhii Mykhalchuk is a world-renowned director of photography and photographer. He has made about 40 films (Mamai, Dovbush, V. Sylvestrov, The Guide and The Wild Field), four of which were nominated for an Academy Award. After the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, he voluntarily joined the Armed Forces. Kostiantyn Liberov and Vlada Liberova are a married couple of photographers from Odesa. After 24 February, they switched from wedding photo shoots and masterclasses to working in the hottest spots of the contact line. Their photographs have travelled all over the world and are shared by major international media such as the BBC, Welt, Vogue, and the New York Times. Kostiantyn Liberov and Vlada Liberova Photo: the projects press service The opening of the photo exhibitions was preceded by a screening of documentaries from the Culture vs War project, featuring Mykhalchuk and the Liberovs, as well as poet and volunteer Serhii Zhadan. Photo: the projects press service In addition, Alina Krasnianska, the executive producer of the project, presented an art book of the same name. It contains photos and quotes from the artists participating in the project: Serhii Mykhalchuk and the couple Vlada and Kostiantyn Liberov, as well as the band Antytila, actor and director Akhtem Seitablaiev, kobzar and bandura player Taras Kompanichenko, writer Serhii Zhadan, film director Mykhailo Illienko, actor Dmytro Linartovych, director of photography Yaroslav Pilunskyi, and actors Oleksii Trytenko and Yevhen Nyshchuk. Zhadan signs an art book Zhadan signs an art book Photo: the projects press service Kostiantyn and Vlada Liberov, who came to the opening of the exhibition directly from the contact line, said that like everyone else, they hoped to the last that the invasion would not last long, so they have tried to show the bright side of the war in their photographs, attempting to give hope to Ukrainians. "After a while, we realised that this war was too romanticised and that it was not good for the front line and Ukrainian society. Now, on the contrary, we are highlighting all the horrors of war. We want to capture this pain, sweat and blood, and make sure it never happens again," said Kostiantyn. Zhadan and the Liberovs at the event Zhadan and the Liberovs at the event Photo: the projects press service "We record, we testify and we try to see and capture the moments that happen to us in order not to lose our self-respect and dignity. Sometimes the world is terribly disappointing when you try to talk about pain or losses, and the world perceives them through the prism of stereotypes, cliches and political situations. We are doomed to explain this!" said Serhii Zhadan, who also attended the event. The exhibition will run until 8 October. The exhibition will run until 8 October. Photo: the projects press service The photo exhibition of the Culture vs War project in Kharkiv will run until 8 October. You can visit it every day, except Sunday, from 15:00 to 18:00 at 5 Svobody Square. Previously, the exhibition was shown in Odesa, and it will travel to Lviv from Kharkiv. Photo: the projects press service The comprehensive project Culture vs War was initiated in May 2022 by the Watch Ukrainian! association to strengthen support for Ukraine around the world. The main component of the project is a series of six documentaries in which Ukrainian musicians, filmmakers, writers, photographers and other cultural figures tell about the war through their own stories and memories. The project is being created by the association Promoting Cinema in Ukraine Watch Ukrainian! with the support of the European Union in Ukraine, the MHP-Hromada Foundation, and the company Babylon. 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! Pittsburgh police, with the help of alert community members, stopped a possible shooting outside of a school two weeks ago. According to police, officers were called to Westinghouse Academy just before 2:30 p.m. on Sept. 15 for a report of a suspicious vehicle circling the school as students were prepping for dismissal. A bus driver and a concerned parent told Pittsburgh Public Schools police that they had seen a gray SUV circling the area with at least three males wearing masks inside. Youre not driving around a neighborhood with a ski mask and a gun for entertainment. Theres a reason youre driving around that way. Thats the type of behavior we need reported, Pittsburgh mayor Ed Gainey said. Twenty minutes later, Pittsburgh police saw the car travel across N. Murtland Street at a high rate of speed. The SUV was driving recklessly through the area as students were walking, police said. Officers tried to conduct a traffic stop on the car in the 6800 block of Frankstown Avenue, but the driver refused to stop until he reached Washington Boulevard. Police said responding officers told the driver to park the car and throw the keys out of the window. The three males were detained and were found to not have weapons on them. Police also said the SUV, which was stolen, had a firearm and spent shell casing inside. There was also a gas canister and a large cloth wick in the trunk which are often used to burn vehicles that are stolen or used in violent crimes. The three juveniles were questioned and two of them were arrested and charged with multiple counts, including receiving stolen property, firearms not to be carried without a license, driving without a license, incendiary devices and reckless driving. The third was released to the custody of a guardian. Pittsburgh Police would like to acknowledge the quick actions of observant individuals who reported suspicious activity and very likely prevented a crime. I am certain that the officers actions, the communitys response to suspicious behavior, thwarted another school shooting in the city of Pittsburgh, specifically Westinghouse, Pittsburgh police chief Larry Scirotto said. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW TRENDING NOW: 2 killed in wrong-way fiery crash involving tractor-trailer on I-79 PHOTOS: First responders called to fatal wrong-way crash involving tractor-trailer on I-79 Teen critically injured in Pittsburgh shooting VIDEO: Find out first or wait for the doctor? The debate over getting results on medical apps DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts Theres a Fat Tuesday special at The Bayou Kitchen & Lounge and man, is it ever aptly named. We didnt know it when we happened in for lunch that day, but its a pretty sweet deal at a pretty new restaurant (it opened back in May) that those of you with big appetites are gonna wanna note. The card on the table noted as much 2-4-1, it said and my companion chose a stellar combo from the plates offered, pretty much all the superstars youd expect in a joint run by native New Orleanians. But you could have knocked me over when the server showed up with exactly that: two completely full-sized servings of gumbo and Cajun fried rice. Two plates. As in two lunches. For her. Later, owner/general manager Eddie Forbes walks me through the teams process as customers continue to get acquainted with their straight-from-the-parish brand of eats, most of which come courtesy of executive chef Keland McWilliams. We wanted to have one day where people could come and really feel what were about and get it for a great price. Just enjoy yourself, says Forbes. So we have some of our best staples as two-for-one and we dont cut back on the amount. You can mix and match and its a really great deal. Michelin-starred Soseki is a city splurge spectacular | Review People, take note: It is. And the food is straight fire. Its plated up pretty for your gram, but the sauce of that gumbo, which has a little heat, I should warn you, is straight-up love in a shallow bowl. Its food from your Gram. Well, McWilliams and partner/chief financial office Akil Yisraels Gram, anyway. The love youll find here is arguably best in the bowl and on the plate, but its not just the stuff of Grandma Marions recipes, though thats certainly part of whats been bringing back the locals. Its not even the stuff of Louisianas hallowed culinary trinity. Its the trinity of partners and cousins McWilliams, and Yisrael, and their adopted family Eddie Forbes, the latter of whom gets a tad sentimental when talking about their journey. I dont want to be corny, but it is a love story, Forbes says. It was a circuitous route that brought the three to Longwood. Forbes and McWilliams have been cooking on and off together for a decade, but if we go all the way back to the beginning, the journey started in a kitchen in New Orleans where a young Chef K (what most folks call McWilliams) was cooking with his grandma when he should have been outside, playing, Yisrael jokes. The two spent virtually every weekend together as kids, except while Yisrael was playing ball, McWilliams was learning the rich and magical Creole secrets of grandmas gumbo, red beans and rice, etouffee and more. Keland always wanted to be a chef, says Yisrael, who has never cooked anything in his life, he jokes. This was always his passion. Yisraels, however, was entrepreneurship, which brought him to accounting, a profession in which hes since logged 20+ years of experience reviewing the financials of all manner of small businesses, many of them restaurants. Its acumen that both his cousin and Forbes credit with The Bayous success out of the gate. While they were ready to jump at several opportunities, Yisrael kept a firm hand on the reins until the ideal situation presented itself. He was able to cool us down when we wanted to push the wrong buttons for the sake of moving forward, Forbes notes, adding that the week they found the Longwood location, he and McWilliams had to sit on their hands. But then we were here and developing a restaurant and since then its been all about the community. One that has far more Louisiana natives than any of them expected, folks who bring in beads and other collectibles from home for them to display, who pop in for a drink to see how theyve been faring. Its been like that since April, when the team opened for takeout only and folks were begging to stay even though the dining room wasnt ready. There would be ladders all over and theyd be like, We dont mind!' Forbes recalls, laughing. Come May, dinner was popping almost immediately. Lunch and happy-hour specials (on Fat Tuesdays, they have $3 beers and $10 hurricanes and swampwater cocktails with free floaters) are running above Yisraels projections, and the team is eager to grow even more. And seriously, you cannot beat that Fat Tuesday deal. Thats lunch, and dinner to take home, and possibly breakfast if you get something thatll scramble into your eggs the next day, just sayin. Seafood fans will find a home here. Take the Holy Trinity crab cakes app ($15): three fat cakes where the crisp gives way to tenderness thats loaded with sweet, crabby flavor and meat that maintains its integrity due to Chef Ks gentle folding process. Charbroiled oysters, a New Orleans must-do for me, scratch the garlicky itch ($18, half dozen). Simple entrees like salmon arent so simple atop Forbes Cajun fried rice and loaded up with NoLa street corn ($21), and classics like the Lake Pontchartrain Etouffee ($25) showcase blackened catfish smothered in sweet crawfish-laden gravy, but Id go for the redfish option if you dont mind the $11 upsell. The jambalaya ($19) is a great heap studded with chicken, shrimp, crawfish, andouille sausage and tasso and speared with a towering rosemary sprig. Portions are colossal. And another way of showing the community love, grandma-style. You know, Yisrael jokes, for years now, Chef K always talks about his grandma Marions recipes. He never acknowledges that theyre our grandma Marions recipe. She was my grandmother, too! Its family in here. You feel it and you feel like it when you come in. Your server will probably recognize you the second time. Ours did. And excluding Labor Day, when Forbes failed to schedule enough people and he and Chef K ran the show from the weeds all day long, his job is kind of easy. Chef K is a master in the kitchen, he says. Im in the front so confident that Im not going to get any questions about the food and it just makes it so easy to take care of guests. Akil has a plan he doesnt let us deviate from. It all works, and puts us in a place where we can stay focused on making this something great for the community for a long time. Theyre a Dream Team, he says. And definitely not a fad. Were not going to burn out after the foodies come and go and dont come in anymore, he notes. We are community first. It shows. If you go The Bayou Kitchen & Lounge: 165 Wekiva Springs Road in Longwood, 407-960-6020; facebook.com/thebayouorlando Find me on Facebook, TikTok, Twitter or Instagram @amydroo or on the OSFoodie Instagram account @orlando.foodie. Email: amthompson@orlandosentinel.com, For more foodie fun, join the Lets Eat, Orlando Facebook group. The Polish government has officially stated that Polish experts have established that a Ukrainian missile of Soviet or Russian manufacture fell in the border village of Przewodow in November 2022. Source: European Pravda, citing a statement by Polish Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro quoted by Onet Details: "The investigation conducted by the Polish prosecutor's office has concluded that the missile belonged to Ukraine - it was of Soviet or Russian manufacture. As regards the launch site and affiliation with a particular military group, it was a Ukrainian missile," Ziobro said. Ziobro also indicated that he "regrets" what he said was a lack of cooperation from the Ukrainian side in the investigation of the incident. Ziobro believes that the decision not to cooperate with Poland was made "at a high political level of the Ukrainian state". Background: The Polish media had previously published an opinion by Polish experts which stated that the missile that fell in Przewodow, killing two people, had been fired by Ukrainian air defence forces. On 16 November 2022, Polish President Andrzej Duda described the incident as an accident. He also stated that he understood Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who had expressed his belief that the missile was a Russian one. 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 Operational Command of the Polish Army has denied Minsk's statement about the alleged violation of Belarusian airspace by a Polish helicopter. Source: European Pravda, citing a statement of the Polish Armed Forces Operational Command Details: The Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces points out that the information of the Belarusian side about the alleged border crossing by a Polish helicopter is false, and it is confirmed by the data of control and radar stations. Quote: "Any information provided by the media is thoroughly analysed and investigated in detail every time. However, information provided by the media of the Belarusian regime must always be approached with caution and prudence, as it has repeatedly been an element of provocation and misinformed the public." Informujemy, ze dzisiejsze oswiadczenie strony biaoruskiej, o rzekomym przekroczeniu granicy przez polski smigowiec, jest nieprawdziwe. Potwierdzaja to zapisy kontroli lotu i stacji radarowych - takie zdarzenie nie miao miejsca. Wszelkie informacje przekazywane przez media pic.twitter.com/5CXIGJ1aSi Dowodztwo Operacyjne (@DowOperSZ) September 28, 2023 Background: On 28 September, the Belarusian Defence Ministry said that the Polish helicopter allegedly "flew deep" into Belarusian airspace twice. On 1 September, the State Border Committee of Belarus also claimed that a Polish military helicopter allegedly violated the airspace in the Berestovitsky district of the Grodno oblast. Warsaw then stated that it would check these statements but they are sceptical. 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! Seattle police have arrested five suspects they believed are linked to a series home invasion robberies that terrorized South Seattle in recent months. At least 14 brutal robberies were reported across South Seattle where victims were assaulted at or inside their homes, held at gunpoint, and robbed. The Seattle Police Department says that they have been investigating these crimes since the first robbery was reported back in June. In addition to the five suspects arrested for the home invasion, three others have also been arrested on different charges related to the crime. Seven adults and one juvenile have been arrested in total. Police recovered 14 guns during the investigation, all of which will be tested to see if they are related to other shootings. The investigation is still ongoing. On Wednesday, Seattle Mayor Harrell released the following statement: I appreciate our officers and detectives who never lost sight of bringing justice to the victims of these violent crimes. The arrests today are an example of good police work, deliberate efforts to build a case, and an outcome that I hope will put an end to this string of robberies. Perhaps these arrests can help to restore peace of mind to many of our South Seattle neighbors. Our police department has a responsibility to support the safety of all Seattle residents, and its through actions, like todays announcement, that demonstrate that commitment in real terms. To AAPI communities who have faced a rise in fear, threats, and violence, and to any person who feels vulnerable in our city, know that my administration and our police service will continue working every day to create a Seattle where everyone can feel safe and be safe. - Mayor Harrell Its been over two years since a young geologist mysteriously disappeared in the Arizona desert without a trace. But his father hasnt given up hope on finding answers and wants law enforcement to look into new evidence that suggests foul play. David Robinson traveled to Orlando, Florida last weekend for CrimeCon 2023, where he set up a booth and shared with attendees the story of his missing son Daniel. This is a lifeline for Daniels case, he told The Independent during the event, his second year attending. Sometimes families dont have a platform, but CrimeCon provides that for us. Daniel, a 24-year-old geologist, was last seen on 23 June 2021 as he was leaving a worksite in the Arizona desert in Buckeye about 35 miles west of Phoenix. Local police said there was no indication of foul play and the investigation has slowed to a standstill. But Mr Robinson has grown increasingly frustrated with the local authorities, forcing him to take matters into his own hands. In an interview with The Independent and during a panel at the CrimeCon event on Sunday, Mr Robinson talked about how a private investigator he hired uncovered a plethora of information he believes will lead to answers in his sons case. There are things that I found out about my sons apartment that need to be looked at by law enforcement, he said, revealing that it was believed someone was likely in Daniels apartment in Tempe, Arizona, after he had gone missing. When he and Jeff McGrath - the private investigator, gained access, the apartment was relatively clean, but the bedroom was really messy, he explained at the panel on Sunday. While Mr Robinson assumed his son had just not cleaned his room, Mr McGrath, who no longer works for the family, told him that it looked more like somebody digging and looking for something. But unable to confirm that Daniel made the mess himself, his father kept pressure on local law enforcement to look into their findings, to process the apartment and overall take the case more seriously. My team and I [were] able to convince them to do the forensics on everything, all of the electronics that my son owned, from the gaming system to his personal computers, Mr Robinson said. He then revealed they had received results of the testing, which showed that someone was in there searching on his computer, going through his files after Daniel had gone missing. Now his goal is to get law enforcement to look into those forensics of his apartment, and ultimately have his sons case transferred to the Maricopa County Sheriffs Office. Mr Robinson told The Independent that, some kind of foul play happened, I just dont know what and thats what Im looking for. He added that this could mean that Daniel was held at gunpoint and someone was keeping him captive, noting that there are drug cartels and reports of human trafficking in the area. Im a man of faith, I believe in God, he added. So my faith is to just always hold on to the hope that my son is still alive. I just got to find him. David Robinson and his daughter pass out fliers at CrimeCon 2023 in Orlando, Florida (Andrea Cavallier for The Independent) On 19 July, a rancher found Daniels busted vehicle a 2017 Jeep Renegade in a ravine three miles away. His keys, clothes, boots, and cellphone were also found. According to a crash report, the vehicle sped up just before the crash. While the local authorities have found no evidence of foul play, Mr Robinson believed otherwise and hired a private investigator who found evidence that there could have been a crime. I knew my son had not just crashed his Jeep, taken off his clothes and ran off to join a mostary, he told The Independent. No, thats not what happened. Mr Robinsons private investigator found that the Jeeps airbag control module revealed that the car was driven 11 miles after the airbags were released and that the ignition was cranked 46 times. He said this evidence led the private investigator to believe the scene was staged to look like a crash - information that was handed over to the Buckeye police. The police department then hired an accident reconstructionist who concluded that the ignition had been cycled 44 times after the crash, a detail described as an "unanswered anomaly." "There is insufficient evidence to scientifically connect the Jeep to another crash or support a theory the Jeep crash, as found, was staged," the reconstructionist wrote in a 15-page report. The driver of the Jeep drove it into the ravine, and having rolled and unable to proceed further, abandoned the Jeep as it lay." Mr Robinson challenged the report, arguing that the reconstructionist went by photo evidence while his private investigator had examined the vehicle in person. This private investigator also found that there had been red paint transferred onto Daniels blue Jeep - which made him think that there was a crash before it ended up in the ravine. There was at least one crash in the vehicles history, police have said. But its not clear when the paint was transferred. The Jeep was found nearly a month after Daniel was reported missing, yet the rancher who found it told police it didnt believe that timeline as he wouldve noticed it before a month had gone by. Mr Robinson pointed out that if his son had died in the crash in the ravine, his body would be there. And if he had survived and walked off, there would be signs. (Daniel Robinson/GoFundMe) The case has been worked on by Buckeye Police, but Mr Robinson said the department very much sensualized his sons case and he wants it turned over to Sheriff Paul Penzone with the Maricopa County Sheriffs Office where it can get the attention it needs. Mr Robinson, who joined Gabby Petitios family at CrimeCon on Sunday to speak about Daniels case and the lack of resources in the investigation, has previously pointed to Petitios case as a prime example of police properly using their resources and how her remains were discovered not long after she was reported missing. But with the Buckeye Police Department, its like theyre reluctant to use the resources. Daniel Robinson was featured on the Missing wall at CrimeCon 2023 (Andrea Cavallier for The Independent) The Robinson family has a website with information on the case, pleasehelpfinddaniel.com, and provides updates on its social media platforms. A GoFundMe detailed Mr Robinsons plans for next steps in the case and how he will foot the bill. I plan to have a sit-in at the Maricopa County Sheriffs Office this fall to demonstrate my seriousness when I asked Sheriff Penzone to open an independent investigation into my sons case and do the forensics work that hasnt been done to date, he wrote. I am covering the costs to house evidence and forensics that law enforcement is slow to do. They pass the responsibility while I pay monthly to accommodate things that should be in taxpayers evidence lockers at a police department. Mr Robinson said he will continue his efforts to find his son, but also notes the good things that have come even in tragic circumstances. Since my sons disappearance, I have met many families with stories of their missing loved ones. That helped me to become an advocate for them. I saw the disparities and the mishandling of a case from law enforcement. I could not resist assisting other families when I could. I built a platform that I hope to grow and could help more families. He continued: I want to continue and build on my social media platform. I founded the Daniel Robinson Foundation to help other families not go through the pain I had when law enforcement broke down, and my family did not have the resources needed to search. Coptic Solidarity Leads Statement Urging Reinstatement of Chaldean Patriarch Sako NEWS PROVIDED BY Coptic Solidarity Sept. 28, 2023 WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2023 /Christian Newswire/ -- Today Coptic Solidarity published a public statement signed by 86 non-profit organizations, parliamentarians and former legislators, and a wide variety of individual experts, urging the immediate reinstatement of Patriarch Sako to his position as head of the Chaldean Church. The statement says, "We, the undersigned, would also like to express our wholehearted support for Patriarch Sakofor speaking truth to power, defending his persecuted community, and safeguarding the properties of Iraqi Christians, and those of the Chaldean Church, while also noting that Patriarch Sako has been a strong advocate for religious freedom for all peoples." In July of this year, Iraqi president Abdul Latif Rashid rescinded presidential decree 147 of 2013, which recognized Cardinal Louis Raphael Sako as Patriarch of the Chaldean Catholic Church in Iraq and worldwide. Copts are particularly sensitive to this effort to undermine and sideline Patriarch Sako, having been through a similar situation with their previous Pope. In 1981, Egyptian President, Anwar Sadat, rescinded the presidential decree of 1971, which recognized Pope Shenouda III as the Pope of Alexandria. Pope Shenouda was banished to a desert monastery, and despite the government's efforts to undermine his leadership, he continued to direct ecclesiastical affairs for the Coptic Orthodox Church during his captivity. It wasn't until January 1985 that President Mubarak officially reinstated Pope Shenouda to his position as Pope of Alexandria, after extensive pressure by the Copts (within Egypt and in the Diaspora) and by their supporters. Based in this experience, Coptic Solidarity believes it is vital that the international community speak out against President Rashid's effort to further marginalize and remove the ancient Chaldean peoples of Iraq. The statement expresses a belief that "the Presidential decree and concomitant campaign are ultimately intimidation tactics employed against Iraqi Christiansdesigned to drive them into forced migration in order to seize their properties." The signatories urge the Iraqi Government to: To revoke Republican Decree No. 31 issued on July 3, 2023. To ensure the safe return of the Patriarch to his seat in Baghdad and provide him with due protection so that he can fulfill his religious and spiritual role, as well as his administrative duties in overseeing the properties of the Chaldean Church. To remember its sworn duty to protect the lives and properties of religious minorities, including the Christian community; and to return the properties that have been seized since 2014, so that forcibly displaced individuals can return to their homes and businesses. The signatories stand in solidarity with Patriarch Sako and the Christians of Iraq, to ensure that they obtain full religious freedom and citizenship rights, including the ability to worship in their historical land. Coptic Solidarity is an organization seeking to help minorities, particularly the Copts of Egypt. We support those in Egypt working for democracy, freedom, and the protection of the fundamental rights of all Egyptian citizens, and advocate in cooperation with the affiliated organizations in Canada and in Europe (Solidarite Copte). For more information, contact Lindsay Rodriguez at 801-512-1713 or coptadvocacy@copticsolidarity.org. Contact the Middle East Freedom Forum at meffusa@gmail.com. SOURCE Coptic Solidarity CONTACT: Lindsay Rodriguez, 801-512-1713, coptadvocacy@copticsolidarity.org Delaware State Police are investigating a hit-and-run crash involving a tractor-trailer and pedestrian early Thursday morning on I-95 near New Castle that left a man dead. The driver did not stop and fled the scene, according to Delaware State Police. The road was closed for about three hours to investigate and clear the scene. Police said the man was hit by the unknown tractor-trailer at around 2 a.m. on I-95 north in the area of Route 141. The 59-year-old man from Wilmington was pronounced dead at the scene. Police are withholding his name until relatives are notified. Police said the man, who was wearing dark clothing, ran across the northbound lanes of I-95 from the Delaware Department of Transportation sandbox in the median toward Airport Road, ending up in the right center lane of I-95 north. Police are asking those who witnessed the crash to contact Sgt. J. Jefferson at (302) 365-8484. Information can also be submitted as a private Facebook message to Delaware State Police or by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-847-3333. MORE TO READ: Woman found dead at Carousel Park ID'ed by police as same woman reported missing Monday This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware I-95 hit-and-run crash involving pedestrian leaves man dead Berlin German police raided the homes of 39 members of an extremist far-right group with neo-Nazi links Wednesday after it was banned in the country. Germany's Interior Ministry banned the sect-like group known as "Die Artgemeinschaft," along with its sub-organizations and internet outlets, calling it a threat to constitutional order in the country. Artgemeinschaft can still appeal against at the ban at Germany's Federal Administrative Court. The raids were carried out in 26 locations across 12 German states on Thursday. There were no arrests made during the raids, as police focused on seizing evidence including banned Nazi symbols and literature to build criminal cases against the members. Police are seen during the search of a home belonging to a memb of the newly-banned neo-Nazi group German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser called Artgemeinschaft, which is one of the oldest right-wing extremist groups in the country, "deeply racist and antisemitic," and accused it of trying "to raise new enemies of the constitution." Artgemeinschaft is believed by security authorities to have had about 90 members, but some of its bigger events could draw up to 300 visitors, including children and young adults. The group was founded in 1951 and registered as a formal association in Germany in 1957, with its headquarters in Berlin. In the late 1980s, Jurgen Rieger, the co-leader of Germany's since-banned neo-Nazi political party, the NPD, became the leader of Artgemeinschaft. German police launch probe over apparent Nazi salutes at Oktoberfest In its last annual report, the Bavarian Office for the Protection of the Constitution said Artgemeinschaft functioned as an "important interface for the all-German neo-Nazi scene." Police collect evidence during a search of a building in Ilfeld, Thuringia state, Sept. 27, 2023, as part of a nationwide operation to crackdown on the newly-banned neo-Nazi group The group touted the "superiority of a Nordic-Germanic species of men," and spoke out against that perceived race being diluted by mixing with other "species." The group imposed rules on its followers reminiscent of those enforced by the Nazi regime, including a demand that members follow the "moral law" of their forefathers by finding "like-minded" spouses to "guarantee like-minded children." It was alleged efforts by Artgemeinschaft to indoctrinate and radicalize children and young people that eventually tipped the scales for Germany's security authorities, drawing the ban and the law enforcement crackdown this week. The ban on Artgemeinschaft came just a week after another neo-Nazi group, "Hammerskins", was prohibited in Germany. The organization was known for organizing far-right concerts and selling racist music across the country. CBS News partner network BBC News said Hammerskins was founded in the U.S. in the 1980s, and it was the last major far-right skinhead group to be prohibited in Germany. Gen. Milley responds to Trump post accusing general of treason | 60 Minutes North Korea says it will expel Travis King, U.S. soldier who ran across border Arrest warrent issued for suspect in killing of 26-year-old Baltimore tech CEO WEST WARWICK The West Warwick Police Department is warning of an organized group that is "aggressively panhandling at street intersections throughout Rhode Island" in an effort to scam drivers. "This group uses photos (displayed on cardboard) of a sick child and indicate that they are either collecting money for cancer treatment for this child, or that the child has passed away and they are collecting money for burial expenses," the police say. More: She scammed a 96-year-old Coventry widower out of $80k. Now she faces 20 years in prison "The cardboard that they hold also contains an image of a Cash App (for money transfers from your phone) that states it goes toward the child in the photo," the police say in a Facebook post. "Further investigation into this group and this Cash App has determined that this is a scam and that they are only collecting money to put into their own bank accounts." The police say the group is from Romania via Texas. More: RI man to plead guilty to laundering $35M in scam money. How he did it. "This group will usually go to major intersections in various locations for a day or two to collect money and information from unsuspecting persons and then move on to other locations," the police say. "They are taking advantage of the goodness in people, and we want the public to be aware of this group and what they are actually about." Want more of our crime coverage right on your phone? Download our free app for personalized news alerts and feeds based on your interests. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: RI police say panhandling group using Cash App, fake sick child in scam The projectile that caused the death of two people in Poland's Przewodow last November was a stray Ukrainian anti-air missile, Polish Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro confirmed, the Polish Radio Lublin reported on Sept. 28. According to the minister, an investigation by Poland's Prosecutor's Office "categorically" established that Ukraine launched the missile that hit a Polish grain facility near the Ukrainian border on Nov. 15, 2022. "It was a Soviet-made missile, but it belonged to the Ukrainian military," Ziobro said. The newspaper Rzeczpospolita reported on the findings of the Prosecutor's Office two days ahead of the official announcement. According to the news outlet, the investigators concluded that the Ukrainian air defense launched two S-300 missiles with a range of 75-90 kilometers in an effort to intercept a massive missile strike that Russia launched on that date. Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support us While one of the air defense missiles hit its target, the other allegedly flew by accident into Poland's territory. For an unknown reason, the missile's built-in self-destruct mechanism did not activate, thus causing the deadly accident, the experts said. Ziobro complained that the Ukrainian side was not cooperative throughout the investigation of the incident. He reminded that Polish prosecutors assist Ukraine with investigating Russian war crimes. Kyiv denied that the incident was caused by a Ukrainian missile but confirmed that its forces attempted to intercept a Russian projectile near and during the timeframe of the missile strike in Poland. Read also: Polish opposition leader calls for unwavering military aid to Ukraine Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Polish opposition leader and former Prime Minister Donald Tusk has called for unwavering military aid to Ukraine ahead of Polands Oct. 15 parliamentary elections, BILD reported on Sept. 27. "The victory of Ukraine is in the national interests of Poland for sure," said Tusk. "This will affect both economic issues and the problem of refugees. The Polish state should not budge from its position, military support of Ukraine should not be questioned." Poland's support came under question recently when Tusk's opponent, incumbent Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, said on Sept. 20 that Poland needed to focus on strengthening its own military arsenal and would no longer supply weapons to Ukraine. Later, officials clarified that Poland will meet all its existing agreements on arms deliveries. Tusk represents the Civic Platform, a center-right political party. Polands ruling party, the conservative Law and Justice (PiS), has also had tensions with the European Union over military support for Ukraine. The suggested decreases in aid to Ukraine are a quite dangerous warning, one EU official told the Financial Times. Daniel Hegedus, a German Marshall Fund fellow told FT that while Polands upcoming election could result in a number of possible outcomes, most were negative. There could be an increasing core of central and eastern European and southern European illiberal, authoritarian governments. That will make the coordination of EU foreign policy actions even more difficult, he said. So much hinges on what happens in Warsaw. Read also: Holding elections during full-scale war doesnt make sense, experts say Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said since Sept. 19 there have been 219 suspects arrested as part of a week-long, multi-agency human trafficking enforcement effort dubbed "Operation Traffic Stop 2." The suspects range in age from 18 to 76, live across Florida and 10 other states. "Sometimes we work an entire operation without being able to identify the human trafficker because the ladies are scared to death of them," Judd said. "We think it's a big, big deal we were able to charge criminally two with human trafficking and two others are under investigation." Maria Guzman, 36, of Orlando, is facing felony charges of human trafficking and deriving proceeds from prostitution. Guzman is accused of sex trafficking two young women from an Orlando hotel, where she would set up appointment. Judd said she would then take 60% to 70% of the proceeds. Guzman's two unidentified victims had met crossing the border into the United States, according to Judd, while in custody of U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, or ICE. The two women traveled together to Minnesota before meeting Guzman online, Judd said, who promised them construction jobs in Florida. "She just didn't define what construction meant," Judd said. "They were going to construct sexual encounters." The sheriff added Guzman kept tabs on her victims' movements day-and-night, causing them to live in fear. "Human trafficking is a heinous, heinous crime that preys on the vulnerability of countless individuals," said Lakeland Police Department Assistant Chief Marvin Tarver, who participated in the operation. "It's the kind of crime that knows no boundaries. It affects people all ages, all genders and all backgrounds." Freddy Escalona, 20, of Chicago, also faces felony charges of human trafficking and deriving proceeds from prostitution. Escalona has entered the country illegally, according to Judd, while victimizing individuals through entrapment. Escalona loaned a woman $2,200 to help repair a vehicle. When the woman did not have the money to repay the loan, Judd said Escalona forced her to engage in prostitution and took 60 to 70% of the proceeds. Escalona drove the victim to the undercover location during the sting, Judd said, where he was taken into custody. The felony crime carries a penalty of up to 30 years in prison, Judd said. There was a total of 119 individuals arrested for prostitution-related charges and 83 arrested for soliciting prostitutes as part of the undercover operation. Of these, 35 individuals are suspected of having entered the country illegally including three of the 21 victims. Sara-Megan Walsh can be reached at swalsh@theledger.com or 863-802-7545. Follow on X @SaraWalshFL. This article originally appeared on The Ledger: Polk County Sheriff arrests 219 suspects in prostitution sting A TAP Air Portugal Airbus A310 lands in Lisbon at sunrise, Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. Portugal's government is expected to announce Thursday that it is having another stab at privatizing flag carrier TAP Air Portugal. (AP Photo/Armando Franca) LISBON, Portugal (AP) Portugal plans to privatize flag carrier TAP Air Portugal next year, the government announced Thursday, after the airline returned to profit following a 3.2-billion-euro ($3.4 billion) taxpayer-funded restructuring program. The goal is to sell at least 51% of the company, Finance Minister Fernando Medina said after a Cabinet meeting. Medina didn't put a price on the company. But he told a news conference that other factors would also carry weight in the decision about who to sell the company to, such as keeping the airline's hub in the Portuguese capital, Lisbon, and investing in staff and expansion. The government will make more details available within a few months, Medina said. TAP, one of Europes smaller national airlines, carried almost 14 million passengers last year. That was a company record and is forecast to be surpassed this year. It also made money in 2022, posting a profit of 65.6 million euros ($69 million) on revenue of 3.5 billion euros ($3.7 billion), after four years of losses, according to company financial reports. TAP has more than 11,000 staff and more than 90 aircraft flying to more than 80 destinations, mostly in Europe but also in North and South America, especially Brazil and the United States, and Africa. Airline analysts say the most likely bidders are Lufthansa, Air France-KLM and International Airlines Group, which combines Spains Iberia and British Airways among others. Two previous attempts to privatize TAP went awry amid financial difficulties and interminable political squabbling over the carrier. Conflicts with trade unions also have dogged the company. Eight years ago, a newly elected Socialist government undid a privatization three months after it took place under a previous administration, demanding that the buyer sell a majority stake back to the state. In 1998, Swissair bought 34% of TAP but the agreement to buy a bigger stake in the company fell apart three years later when the Swiss flag carrier went bankrupt. This year's epic storms inundated vast portions of Hansen family farmland as water coursed into areas that had not typically flooded. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) As dark clouds massed over Kings County on the chilly morning of March 18, scores of panicked farmers and landowners packed the Board of Supervisors chambers in Hanford for a third day of emergency hearings. They were there to hurl accusations and blame and to plead with county leaders to do something to divert the floodwaters that were submerging their fields and homes, sapping their livelihoods and now threatening to wipe out the city of Corcoran and farm towns across the region. One by one, agitated farmers stood to address the supervisors. They pointed at maps and diagrams to show areas of the Tulare Lake Basin that had been inundated in past floods that now were dry, and areas that had never flooded but were now underwater. They didnt understand what was happening with the floodwater and why it seemed to be coursing onto farms and ranches where it had never gone before. Weve lost control, one farmer shouted in exasperation. Kings County Supervisor Doug Verboon hosts a town hall meeting to address imminent threats of flooding in the Island District north of Lemoore. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) For three months, storms had pounded California, and rivers in the southern San Joaquin Valley were overflowing. Levees were breaching. Tulare Lake, an ancient inland sea drained a century ago in the service of agribusiness, had reemerged with a vengeance in the valley's lowlands, swallowing vast acres of farmland. Chickens were drowning at industrial-scale poultry farms, and dairies were evacuating thousands of cows. As the lake grew deeper and wider, some landowners in the basin embarked on a mad rush to protect their interests. One levee was cut in the dead of night, sending water rushing toward the small town of Allensworth. Private security forces roamed the tops of berms to prevent anyone else from acting on a similar idea. At one point in the hearing, brothers Phil and Erik Hansen, fifth-generation farmers in Kings County, voiced a brewing suspicion: J.G. Boswell Co., the tomato- and cotton-growing giant whose namesake family had wielded outsized power in the region for nearly a century, was brazenly rigging conditions to spare its own property in the lowest reaches of the lakebed. It was a sentiment several local officials and landowners had expressed only in private, for fear of drawing the company's wrath: that instead of letting the floodwaters take their natural course onto Boswell acreage in the lowest areas of the old Tulare lakebed, the company had raised levees and engineered irrigation canals to send the water surging onto farms and ranches on higher ground. Cotton fields and homes the Hansens owned on the southeast side of the lakebed that had never flooded were now submerged devastation they claimed occurred because Boswell had sent water rushing onto their land. It was premeditated, Erik Hansen told the crowd. They knew it would break on us. Boswell representatives acknowledged at the hearing that they had an interest in protecting the company's crops and infrastructure. But they maintained their top priority was protecting Corcoran and said they were managing the floodwaters on their land to that end. Others in the room pushed back, saying Corcoran remained at grave risk. The Hansens, legacy farmers in the Tulare Lake Basin, lost cotton fields and homes in this year's flooding. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) At the end of the contentious hearing, Kings County supervisors took an action never before taken in county history. They voted to cut a levee on farmland owned by Boswell to buy time for Corcoran, home to 20,000 people and one of Californias largest maximum security prisons, as the town scrambled to raise earthen defenses against the encroaching floodwaters. The decision was met with incredulity and fury by the powerhouse farming company. Boswell has been farming in the Corcoran area since 1925. Ninety-eight years, George Wurzel, Boswell's president and chief operating officer, told the supervisors. And in 98 years, the county supervisors have never gotten involved in telling us where to put floodwater." In most parts of California, and indeed the United States, the idea that the government would largely cede to private companies management of a natural disaster that could decimate multiple towns, displace thousands of farmworkers and wreak destruction across hundreds of square miles would be unfathomable. But that has long been how things operate in the Tulare Lake Basin. Land barons, chief among them J.G. Boswell's founder, seized control of the basin and its water generations ago and have since managed it with minimal government interference. In recent months, a team from The Times interviewed dozens of farmers, residents, government officials and policy experts; reviewed property records, court filings, water district records and historical documents; and spent hours driving around and flying over the lakebed. The picture that emerged is one of a region that operates more like a secretive fiefdom ruled by a handful of legacy farming clans than a publicly governed jurisdiction where decisions affecting the well-being of residents are made on a foundation of transparency and accountability. Among The Times findings: The flood-prone Tulare Lake Basin is the one part of the Central Valley that has a special exemption from state-required flood control plans, leaving the area without a clear public strategy for managing floodwaters. State and federal flood maps offer scant information about the location or condition of the hundreds of miles of levees and canals in the basin which spans portions of Kings and Tulare counties because no one has ever reported it in detail. And because the landscape is constantly in flux as levees, berms and ditches are built, cut and rerouted as private landowners see fit residents, lawmakers and water managers were unable to plan for and mitigate the damage as the floodwaters poured in. The situation has been compounded by the unrestrained pumping of groundwater in recent decades. This is causing large swaths of the valley floor to sink, further changing the path water takes in the basin. Local flood control and water conveyance districts, made up of powerful farming interests, make decisions about water infrastructure. Some refer to themselves as government entities; others receive tax-exempt status to store, divert and channel water. Even the governor appeared flummoxed when he visited in April. Its complicated, Gov. Gavin Newsom said as he stood beside the newly formed Tulare Lake near Corcoran. He had come down after local officials begged the state for money to build up the Corcoran levee, a 14-mile-long earthen wall that protects the town and prison when water rises in the lake bottom. But the regions lawmakers had opted out of so many state programs, and officials had such scarce information about the region's water dynamics, that figuring out how to provide aid was complicated. State officials, Newsom said, were trying to assess exactly the rules of engagement. Six months later, theyre still trying to figure it out. I would observe that we have some big local landowners that say, 'See, we managed this, and it went fine this year,' said Karla Nemeth, director of Californias Department of Water Resources. But there's also a lot of folks in that region that came away from the spring saying, 'We don't understand what happened. We don't understand who was making decisions, and we don't understand what the plan is. This year, Corcoran and other towns in the Tulare Lake Basin were largely spared, in part because of decisions made by landowners and state and local officials and in part just by pure luck as record snowpack in the southern Sierra Nevada melted more slowly than expected. But in the years to come, the potential for more record precipitation and drought volatile weather swings unleashed by the changing climate is likely to stress the system in ways that will make this past year seem benign. While whole towns were not destroyed, this year's flooding left clear winners and losers. The revived Tulare Lake could put some farmland and orchards out of circulation for years. The economic devastation is projected at roughly $1 billion. "To see everything we worked for going down the drain, it's very hard," said farmer Makram Hanna, whose pistachio orchard flooded after a levee broke. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) Are we going to be bankrupt? Are we going to be in business? I don't know, said farmer Makram Hanna, whose pistachio orchard was flooded by a broken levee, leaving hundreds of acres of trees suffocating under 2 feet of water. The episode has fractured some longtime relations in this lucrative corner of the San Joaquin Valley, and left troubling questions about the wet winters and dry summers to come: When water is overwhelming or desperately scarce who will suffer and who will thrive? And who gets to decide? Before the rivers that once roared out the southern Sierra Nevada were diverted for agriculture, back when Tulare Lake was the center of life for the Native Yokut people, the lake could stretch for 790 square miles, four times the size of Lake Tahoe. The lake and its extensive wetlands once teemed with fish, birds, beavers and frogs, and the people who lived on its shores built rafts out of tules and fished with basket traps. But even after the region's four major rivers the Kaweah, Tule, Kern and Kings were diverted for irrigation and the lakebed carved up and cultivated, Tulare Lake returned in years of heavy rain. It came back in 1937, 1952, 1969, 1983 and, in much smaller form, in 1997. Read more: 'A ticking time bomb': Why California can't provide safe drinking water to all its residents This year, after the spate of intense winter storms and spring runoff from a record-high Sierra snowpack, the flooding was more intense than many old-timers could remember. I dont even want to call it a lakebed, Kings County Supervisor Richard Valle said in April after viewing the scene from the air. I saw an ocean of water. I want to be clear about that: I saw an ocean. Each time the water returns, the biggest landowners get to work managing the flow. They maintain most of the irrigation canals and levees that weave through the lake bottom, dividing it into cells where water can be channeled and stored. They often have more extensive earth-moving equipment than the local governments and are more skilled at using it. During the second week of March, as it became clear Tulare Lake was rising once more, Boswell, the indisputable lord of the lakebed, got cracking. Company crews brought in a small army of earth-movers, trucks and bulldozers and started rearranging earth. Boswell family members and company officials have a long history of refusing to talk to the media, and declined numerous requests from The Times for comment. But local government officials and fellow farmers in the basin shared their observations of what unfolded. In years past, there has been an established order for how to handle the periodic episodes when floodwaters cascaded into the basin: Water would be allowed to flow where gravity took it, to the deepest section of the lakebed, before being allowed to encroach on higher ground. You can't fill a bucket from the top down, Jim Verboon, descendant of another legacy farming clan, said at the March 18 supervisors meeting. About 44% of the lakebed more than 97,000 acres belongs to the Boswell company. And this year, said experts and fellow farmers, the company took a starkly different approach to letting its bottom lands flood. Across the lake bottom, Boswell had bolstered its levee system to direct the water, while keeping expansive stretches of the company land protected and dry. Mark Grewal, a veteran agricultural consultant, said this year's response to flooding in the Tulare Lake Basin and the resulting devastation was unlike anything he'd witnessed. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) This was all underwater in 83, Mark Grewal said during a truck tour of the basin in early May. All that water should have been contained here and it shouldn't be near Corcoran. Grewal was a manager at Boswell for 26 years and is deeply familiar with company operations and basin history. He now works as an independent agricultural consultant for other growers, and said this years response to the flooding and the resulting devastation was unlike anything hed witnessed. Grewal stopped his pickup along a raised road that cut through Boswell property in the lakebed bottom. Small tomato plants sprouted in tidy rows on one side of the road and pima cotton on the other. In the distance, a Boswell crew with earth-movers was building a levee, a rising barrier of mounded dirt. Thats their new battle wall, Grewal said. They're going to go ahead and plant their crops from that point south. They might have all the rights to do what they're doing, Grewal added. But because something's legal doesn't make it right. As floodwaters coursed through the Tulare basin last spring, farmers and irrigation districts brought in heavy equipment to try to manage the flows. Here, a crew uses bulldozers to amass a levee. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) He said in previous floods, this area in Delta Lands Reclamation District 770 was the first to be flooded. Local reclamation districts, many of them controlled by Boswell, worked to contain floodwater to the fewest acres possible, to minimize crop losses and dampen the economic hit to the broader community. That requires directing water to the deepest areas of the lakebed. In past floods, Boswell made strategic cuts in its levees to allow certain sectors of its cropland to be flooded and then held off planting those fields until the water receded. That didnt happen in the same way this time. Instead, Grewal and others said, water flowed toward the east and north. The result was wide-scale inundation on farms and ranches that had not flooded in the past. Much of that land is planted with permanent crops, such as pistachios and almonds, which amplified losses in the region, Grewal said. There's a lot of money at stake here, and they want to protect their crop, Grewal said of Boswells tactics. They don't want to take the hit. So somebody else will. Over the decades, J.G. Boswell and his nephew and successor, J.G. Boswell II, carved out one of the richest cotton empires in the nation. Here, Boswell cotton bales wait in storage in Corcoran. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) Grewal said his issue was not just with the Boswell response. In general, he said, the floods were being handled differently than in the past, including the county's unprecedented involvement. The combination, he said, had put Corcoran in serious danger and now the city was asking for millions of dollars in public funding to shore up defenses. Similar accusations against Boswell had been lodged weeks earlier by growers at the March 18 meeting: that the company was either sending water onto other farms and ranches on higher ground, or altering infrastructure to change historical flows. Elsewhere in the state, disaster response officials have detailed maps of levee systems and roads that help them strategize flood management. Using advanced satellite and mapping capabilities, they know the elevations of fields, ditches, berms and even the contours of ancient lakebeds. Read more: One of America's reddest states wants 100% green energy if dams count as green But as the flooding happened in March, the only maps readily available were ones created by the Boswell company. Corcoran City Manager Greg Gatzka said he turned to the state Department of Water Resources for guidance when it first became clear the city was at risk of catastrophic flooding. Their assessment to us was, Hey, we dont have enough information. ... This is a black hole of data to us, Gatzka recalled. But it wasnt a black hole to the Boswell company. Officials there, Gatzka said, had critical information about where water was flowing and when. Their watermasters, their water engineers and hydrologists were giving us updates, he said. It was a game changer. Its also what led to the distrust and confusion. According to the Boswell map, the Hansens land was in an area of the basin called the Southeast Lakebed. It was depicted as one of the lowest-elevation areas in the region. That Southeast Lake area right there? That's made up, Phil Hansen told supervisors at the March hearing as he pointed to the Boswell map. That area has never been in the lake bottom. It's never flooded before. Boswell representatives contended that subsidence of the valley floor and other infrastructure projects in the region had changed the way water flowed. But without maps or information from a neutral party, the supervisors seemed skeptical. I met with an expert and someone who worked the last two floods, Valle told the audience. And almost every question that I asked, his answer was opposite of what I was told by Boswell. As the crisis mounted, the companys unusual clout in the basin played out in other remarkable ways. The rivers that feed the Tulare Lake Basin, normally sapped for irrigation, swelled during last winter's historic storms, overwhelming levees and reviving the basin's ancient lake. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) At the southwest edge of the lakebed, the Los Angeles County Sanitation District owns 14,600 acres of farmland. Roughly eight times a day, a truckload of sewage sludge, processed in part from human waste, is dropped at the site and converted to compost. After news stories suggested the composting facility could flood and sewage could contaminate basin acreage planted with food crops, nearby farmers, including Boswell, became concerned, said Doug Verboon, a Kings County supervisor and fourth-generation farmer. He said he put the sanitation district and Boswell in touch to exchange information. Within days, the Boswell company brought earth-moving equipment onto the countys property and dug two canals, according to officials from the sanitation district. The purpose of the canals was to help Boswell move water off its lands to the east, said district officials. Whether it also was meant to prevent sewage sludge from infiltrating farms is unclear, because little was done to document it. The work was all done without a contract. When The Times asked the sanitation district for documentation on the construction project who paid for the canals, who is responsible for upkeep officials said there wasnt any. A public records request also came up empty. I think, you know, in terms of what we would normally do in terms of how wed ordinarily have a really rigorous, like an agreement structure in [place] and those kinds of things because it was an emergency, we don't have all those bells and whistles, said Ajay Malik, head of the county sewage districts technical services department. Malik was referring to an executive order signed by the governor on March 31 that waived "certain statutes and regulations to expedite emergency flood preparation" in the Tulare Lake Basin. Mike Sullivan, assistant head of the technical services department, drove a Times team around the county site in June. Slicing two miles east to west across the property, fresh earth from a deep cut in the fields was pushed up along the perimeter of a 10-to-12-foot-wide canal. To the east, water could be seen gushing out of a handful of pumps located on flooded Boswell property and into the newly cut canals on the district property. A similar canal was dug at the southern edge of the property. When asked why the Boswell company was pumping water into the canals and where it was going, Sullivan said he did not know. Asked who owned the canals built on county land, Malik said it was a good question. I think you make a very good point about ownership, he said. I think that's a very critical thing and who's responsible for maintaining them or operating them? I think these are all excellent questions to ask. We're going to go and sit down with the Boswell representatives and decide on all of these things." James Griffin Boswell, the companys founder and the scion of a cotton family in Georgia, arrived in California in 1921. He jumped into the cultivation business, joining forces with other pioneer families to re-engineer the Tulare lakebed into an agricultural powerhouse. As Mark Arax and Rick Wartzman recounted in "The King of California," their 2003 book about Boswell and his nephew and successor, James G. Boswell II: No longer content with simply siphoning water from the Kings, Tule and Kaweah, farmers began altering the very bend of the rivers, turning meanders into lines as perfect as a draftsman's. The end result was so incredible, they noted, that Tulare Lake turned up in "Ripleys Believe It or Not" as the Square Lake. "No landscape in America not the cotton South, not the grain belt of the Midwest, not the cane fields of Florida had been more altered by the hand of agriculture," Arax and Wartzman wrote. Boswell eventually married Ruth Chandler, daughter of The Times' then-publisher, land baron Harry Chandler, and quietly carved out one of the richest cotton empires in the nation. Boswell II inherited the business when his uncle died in 1952 and over time tripled the size of the company's holdings, which now encompass more than 150,000 acres across the San Joaquin Valley. The company scored a critical coup in that journey in 1954. Pressed by Boswell II and other Tulare basin farmers, the federal government finished construction of the Pine Flat Dam on the Kings River, followed in the 1960s by dams on the Kaweah and Tule rivers. The dams limited flooding in the lakebed in wet winters and guaranteed the farmers a steady supply of water in the San Joaquin Valley's long arid summers. While the Boswells were the largest landowners, the basin had other legacy families that accumulated power along with land. Among them: the Gilkeys, the Hansens and the Boyetts. Through heavy lobbying and fancy legal footwork, the Boswells and other barons prevailed upon the government to exempt them from federal reclamation laws that were supposed to ensure that cheap federal water went only to small farmers. The big farmers consolidated their power by creating flood control and irrigation districts government agencies whose boards are largely run by the farmers or their representatives. The farmers also created tax-exempt organizations to manage their water rights. J.G. Boswell Co. is one of the world's top sellers of extra-long staple cotton. The company is credited with innovating production techniques, including developing more productive seeds and boosting gin capacity. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) A marked shift in the Tulare Lake Basin toward farmers planting permanent crops, such as pistachios and almonds, rather than seasonal crops exacerbated losses in this year's floods. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) Ron Stork, a senior staff member for the environmental group Friends of the River, noted that in other flood-prone regions of the state, flood protection boards, counties and the Army Corps of Engineers have authority over levees and the flow of water. But in the Tulare basin, Stork said, the accepted practice has long been for farmers to simply do what they can to protect their land and farming operations. Because of local opposition, the Tulare basin was exempted from 2008 legislation that led to the development of the states Central Valley Flood Protection Plan, which guides strategies in managing flood risks. Left out of this blueprint, the Tulare basin remains a zone with minimal state involvement and little public planning for flood control, even though its low-lying location puts towns and farmland at risk. I think the challenge in the Tulare basin is, when the flood planning is managed so extensively by individuals, significant landowners, who does a community call when they sense a flood threat? said Nemeth, director of the states water department. Are they calling a big landowner to say, you know, Tell us what's happening, tell us what we need to do to be safe. Read more: Tulare Lakes ghostly rebirth brings wonder and hardship. Inside a community's resilience The large number of water-related districts and special entities adds to the confusion. The Times identified more than two dozen flood control and irrigation districts and tax-exempt water purveyors in the Tulare basin, although the exact number was difficult to come by. Not every organization has a website or a clear way for the public to identify its scope and membership. Of the 25 districts and canal companies The Times identified, representatives from the Boswell company serve on the board of at least 17. Michael Kiparsky, founding director of the Wheeler Water Institute at UC Berkeleys School of Law, studies such districts across the western United States and noted that they often operate with all the shadowiness of a privately held corporation and all the power of a public entity. A case in point: The Cross Creek Flood Control District, which maintains the 14 miles of levees protecting the city of Corcoran, has a landing page on the county website but no information, not even a phone number. Kiparsky said the idea behind creating these quasi-governmental districts was sound. They brought together a group of landowners and enabled them to pool resources and build costly water infrastructure. The problem, he said, is that you can get situations where you literally have one or a small number of very large landowners controlling an entity that is managing a public resource owned by the state of California. At its height last spring, the reborn Tulare Lake swallowed more than 100,000 acres of farmland and reached roughly the size of Lake Tahoe. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) In dry years, the farmers' control over the water has been a source of outrage to some who question why such a vital public resource water should be presided over by so few. But in wet years, when the lake comes roaring back, the fight isnt about who should get the most water. It is about who will get drowned. Over the years, many private landowners have built levees and berms to protect their investments. In May, a privately built levee on farmland near Corcoran broke and water rushed onto a neighboring orchard planted with hundreds of acres of pistachio trees. Hanna, who owns the 1,270-acre orchard together with relatives and two other families, had planted the trees in 2021. About 800 acres were inundated . Hanna fumed about how one of his neighbors responded to the flooding. After the neighbor harvested his wheat, Hanna said, that farmer built a berm that prevented water from flowing onto his empty field, which kept water on a portion of Hannas orchard. Reached by The Times, the neighbor declined to comment. That section eventually dried out, but tens of thousands of trees elsewhere in Hanna's orchard remained underwater through the summer, while workers ran pumps to siphon it off. When the floodwaters finally receded, many of his trees had been reduced to withered sticks. Hanna estimates the farm will be left with about half the trees it once had. Ultimately, he paid a contractor $92,000 to haul truckloads of dirt, about 300 loads, to plug the broken levee. Looking back on the flooding, Hanna said he was deeply grateful to one neighbor, Kirk Gilkey, who sent a crew to build a mound to keep water off part of Hannas land. Good people come to aid, Hanna said. Selfish people think about themselves. Farmer Charlie Meyer inspects a breached levee near his flooded alfalfa field. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) Charlie Meyer said this year's free-for-all illustrates why the government should play a stronger role in managing levees during floods. "There's no justice," Meyer says. "There's only political clout." (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) Fifteen miles west, farmer Charlie Meyer commended neighbors helping neighbors but said the free-for-all illustrates why the government should play a stronger role in managing levees during floods. Meyer is 83, and has spent his life in Stratford, where his family farms 1,100 acres of cotton, pistachios, alfalfa and hemp. Small farmers on the lakebed's edge, he said, have long operated at the whim of lake bottom farmers and their ability to channel water where they see fit on their massive holdings. To make his point, he took a reporter up in his plane in May. As the four-seater Cessna climbed from the airstrip behind Meyers home, roofs of submerged dairy and poultry farms jutted out from underneath the seeming ocean of grayish-blue water. In 1969, Meyer said, water came close to his house. But it was shallow, and it took only a week to pump it dry. This time was different, he said, in part because the big farmers raised levees that stopped the water from moving south and flooding areas that historically had filled. There's no justice," Meyer said. "There's only political clout. No matter which side of the levee they stand on, almost everyone in the Tulare Lake Basin agrees that the damage has been more far-reaching than in years past. One factor was the sheer intensity of the storms that moved through the basin. Another is that growers such as Hanna have planted so many more permanent crops in and near the lake bottom. That makes the losses much costlier. Forgoing a seasonal cotton crop for a year or two is one thing; the loss of thousands of nut trees to root rot is quite another. Thousands of acres of pistachio trees in the Tulare Lake Basin died after its phantom lake reemerged, their roots suffocated beneath the standing water. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) In addition, there are the shifting contours of the San Joaquin Valley floor due to excessive groundwater pumping. Over the last two decades, farmers have pumped so much water from the aquifer beneath the Tulare basin that the land has sunk. In some areas of the basin, especially to the north and east, the land has sunk by 3 to 6 feet since 2015, according to recent satellite data. The consequences of that were evident when this year's flooding began. Buildings including homes and dairies full of cows that had never flooded before and that their owners assumed were safely constructed began to take on water. I never thought it would come, said Anja Raudabaugh, president of the Western Dairies Assn., after hearing from dairy owner after dairy owner that their structures were inundated. They knew they were farming in a floodplain and tried to mitigate by maybe building their barn, you know, 4 or 5 feet higher in elevation, she said. Its like Poseidons hand has literally covered Tulare and Kings counties. The subsidence cannot be laid at the feet of any one farmer. Through years of drought, almost anyone with a drill and well pumped as much water as they could. But many locals, including Supervisor Verboon, say two of the basin's most powerful landowners bear much of the responsibility. One of them is the Boswell company, which since 2009 has been led by Boswell IIs son, James W. Boswell. As the areas largest groundwater pumper, the company has caused a substantial share of the subsidence. Another is Sandridge Partners, a company controlled by the family of Silicon Valley multimillionaire John Vidovich. Vidovich is heir to De Anza Properties, a real estate enterprise founded by his father that was instrumental in turning the Santa Clara Valley into a commercial metropolis. Over the years, Vidovich has generated resentment in the basin because of a history of buying land and selling some of its water outside the valley. He and Boswell have had nasty public disputes involving water, as chronicled by reporter Lois Henry on her news site SJV Water. A Boswell-controlled company has sued to keep Sandridge from constructing a large pipeline to move water around the county, while Vidovich has openly challenged Boswell over the companys practice of pumping up groundwater and storing it in ponds for later use. Verboon contends enmity between Vidovich and Boswell made the flooding worse this year. He said that Vidovich could have used pumps to take water onto his land, but that he didnt want to take it until Boswell is flooded out first. Each one wants to see the other fail, Verboon said. In an interview, Vidovich said, I dont have tensions with the Boswells. He said that subsidence played a major role in this year's flooding, and that he has suffered major losses because water conveyance systems are sinking. He wants limitations put in place to force significant reductions in groundwater pumping in the region. What went downhill is now going uphill, he said. We used to go by gravity, and now we have to put in many pumps to bring it back. As the water poured down in March, rushing into unexpected places, the Kings County supervisors felt they had no choice but to get involved. On the morning of March 17, the board voted to cut Levee 749 in hopes of protecting Corcoran only to stay their decision when the Boswell company objected. Longtime farmers in the basin said this year's floods unfolded far differently than in typical wet years, with water surging into unexpected areas. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) Two board members, Verboon and Valle, drove to Corcoran that afternoon to meet with company representatives. My daughter took photos because she thought they were gonna kill me, Verboon said. In the end, they agreed Boswell could make its case to the board the following day. The meeting was as contentious as anyone in Kings County could remember. Boswell officials gave a presentation laying out why they had sent water flowing to the southeast part of the lakebed. They argued that keeping space in the bottom of the lakebed was the best way to protect Corcoran from the threat of future flooding posed by the massive Sierra snowpack looming to the east. But other farmers rejected the rationale, saying to prevent the threat of imminent flooding near Corcoran a Boswell levee had to be cut. What it does is buy you time, said Jim Verboon, the supervisor's cousin. Right now were not doing a very good job of managing it to keep people that are upstream safe. In the face of such arguments, the supervisors held firm and upheld their vote to cut the Boswell levee. The cut was made that afternoon, with two sheriffs deputies looking on. California Conservation Corps crews helped fortify levees as the rising waters of the reformed Tulare Lake spread toward Corcoran and Stratford. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) Kirk Gilkey, 65, watched the fight between the Hansens and the Boswells and did his best to stay out of it. Gilkey descends from a family that bought into the lake bottom more than 100 years ago and owns more than 8,000 acres. By mid-April, he had lost 2,300 acres and was expecting to lose thousands more. It would be the first time in 75 years, he said, that his family did not grow cotton. Members of the Gilkey family have, over the years, served on Corcoran's chamber of commerce and city council and on the boards of water management districts that control where water flows in the basin and when. Gilkeys have walked as grand marshal in town parades and been crowned queen of the cotton festival. But over and again this spring, Gilkey insisted that he wanted to stay out of the political and landowner disputes swirling around the flooding. It was a vow he stuck to through an hours-long tour of the flood-ravaged basin in his truck and over drinks at the Lake Bottom, Corcorans most popular bar. The only time he broke that vow was when the issue of greater county or state regulation of Tulare basin was raised. Should there be more regulation? Hell no, Gilkey said. The Kings County supervisors, he said, have got no clue. And as for the state officials: They dont know what theyre doing. Read more: What's in the mysterious waters of Tulare Lake? Contaminants, egrets and many unknowns Given such sentiments and the regions deference to its land barons, its difficult to say whether the supervisors decision to defy Boswell has any long-standing implications for water management in the Tulare Lake Basin. Earlier this month, Verboon and the other supervisors quietly accepted two Boswell donations totaling $60,000. Both were intended for the county Sheriff's Office, including a $50,000 gift for the sheriffs outstanding leadership during the recent floods. But the chaotic spring and just how close the basin came to far-reaching disaster has lit a simmering call for change. Its time for the basin to move on from the Wild West, said Deirdre Des Jardins, director of California Water Research, which analyzes how climate change will affect the states water infrastructure. Its insane to have a bunch of desperate farmers out there with backhoes, ignoring the liability of what might happen if they accidentally make things worse. We need a rational flood control plan and sustained long-term investment. Nemeth has come away thinking something has to change. "And that's where I would tell some of the bigger landowners, 'Yeah, you managed it successfully this year. But you got this big temperature assist from Mother Nature,' " she said. And the public doesn't know what it was and what to do and who made decisions. Nemeth said that as climate change rocks California, the Tulare basin needs to develop the same kind of regional flood planning in place in the rest of the Central Valley, and that it likely will take an act of the Legislature to make that happen. And again, it's not about going in and directing what should happen. I want to be really clear about that, she said. But the state can't be left completely holding the bag when there are gaps in that flood planning. This year's succession of winter storms revitalized the Kings River, left, one of four mighty rivers that once fed Tulare Lake. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) After the last big flood in 1983, it took about two years before all the water receded. Now that Tulare Lake has resurfaced, some have suggested it would make sense for local governments and the state to coordinate on buying land from farmers to create space for future flooding. There are also those who see forces at work stronger than the Tulare basin landowners. The Yokut people who once thrived along Tulare Lake's shores are calling on the state to let the lake live on in some form rather than once more draining it into submission. Let Mother Nature take its course, said Leo Sisco, chairman of the Santa Rosa Rancheria Tachi Yokut Tribe. I think there's plenty of room for having that lake here. Times staff writer Hayley Smith contributed to this report. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. MONTROSE Some days, Tiffany Rodriguezs hands swelled up so badly she could barely make a fist, and simple tasks like hooking her bra or putting on her pants seemed to take forever. Because of the soaring hypertension she experienced during the second half of her pregnancy, the 31-year-old from Montrose, was also coming down with pounding headaches and noticing spots or blurry patches in her field of vision. As her blood pressure continued to tick upward, doctors were growing concerned about the health of her pregnancy. But Rodriguez was determined to do whatever she could to carry her baby, Carter, until his scheduled delivery in mid-August. She asked for shorter shifts at the local supermarket deli, a job that keeps her on her feet for hours at a time. She also hustled to a battery of prenatal checkups to make sure her hypertension didnt worsen into preeclampsia, a serious condition that can cause preterm birth and endanger the life of the mother. Every week, she was supposed to go in for her standard doctors visit, plus sit through tests to monitor her babys heart rate, a process that could take hours at a time. And with a 30- or 45-minute drive between her rural township and these medical services, these visits could consume half of her day. There was little choice considering the lack of specialized maternity services in her community, a small northeastern Pennsylvania town ringed with bluestone quarries and soaring old-growth hemlock forests. Rodriguezs hometown where she recently returned for a fresh start after leaving a marriage she says was unhealthy also boasts a brewery, an annual blueberry festival and a handful of fast-food options. But there are no obstetricians working at its local hospital. And there are none at Susquehanna Countys only other hospital, which shut down its maternity unit in the 1990s. A wave of other small-town hospitals in Pennsylvania have followed suit, forcing Rodriguez and many other rural women to seek services and give birth in facilities farther and farther from where they live. In 2020, six Pennsylvania counties, Cameron, Forest, Greene, Juniata, Sullivan and Wyoming, met the criteria for a maternity desert because of the absence of delivery hospitals or obstetricians in those areas, according to the March of Dimes. These deserts are only expected to multiply, experts say. In some cases, women are so far away from the hospital where theyll give birth that they have to schedule their deliveries, according to one obstetrician. These deserts can also hinder them from accessing the prenatal care that can keep them and their babies healthy during their pregnancies. For Rodriguez, several overlapping challenges made it tough to get to appointments. Shes a single mother of a 10-year-old daughter, and finding childcare can be difficult. And it wasnt always easy to clear space in her schedule at the deli, work shes banked on to secure an apartment for her, her daughter and her new baby. Then, there are the fuel costs to consider. Rodriguez said one week she spent six days in a row driving to medical appointments in Scranton, Wilkes-Barre and Tunkhannock. It was like $120 almost in gas just for those days to go to the doctor's, she said during an early August interview. Rodriguez, health workers and Pennsylvania policymakers agree these rural communities need more maternal healthcare resources. But experts say theres no quick fix to the financial pressures and staffing shortages that are driving delivery rooms and clinics to close, especially with aging populations and declining birth rates. Caregivers in short supply: Erie County facing a 'silver tsunami' as population ages Some of the smaller facilities are going to feel (the demographic changes) and then really struggle to be able to keep the lights on, said Dr. Amanda Flicker, an OB/GYN and chair of the Pennsylvania section of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. We just have to decide that the health of mothers and the safe birth for newborns is something we need to prioritize. Expanding deserts Money is one major driver in the closure of delivery rooms and even entire hospitals across Pennsylvania, health experts say. Since 2005, nine rural Pennsylvania hospitals have closed or transitioned to specialty care as its become increasingly difficult to keep these types of medical facilities operating in the black. Another 17 have chosen to eliminate their labor and delivery units, according to a Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania analysis. The fact that we see fewer labor and delivery units in rural communities is not in any way a statement about the dedication of those hospitals to providing comprehensive care, said Lisa Davis, who directs the Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health. It just means they may not be able to afford it. This embedded content is not available in your region. One issue: Medicaid, which covers about half of all rural births nationwide, fails to provide adequate reimbursement rates for obstetric care, according to a 2022 U.S. Government Accountability Office analysis. Doctors say there are issues with private insurance as well, noting that carriers often offer a bundled payment for obstetrics, regardless of how much care a particular woman ends up needing. No matter how many times I see them, whether they get a vaginal delivery or a C-section, I'm getting paid by the insurance company one flat fee for all of their care, said Dr. Stacy Beck, an OB/GYN at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital in Pittsburgh and co-chair of the Pennsylvania Maternal Mortality Review Committee. In addition, obstetricians and gynecologists deal with high liability insurance costs because of the number of malpractice claims they face. In 2020, insurance premiums for OB/GYNs in Philadelphia totaled almost $120,000 each, about $30,000 more than general surgeons and $95,000 more than internists, according to an American Medical Association analysis of selected insurance companies. The staffing demands of a labor and delivery unit make it even harder to keep them open. Because babies can arrive at any hour, these units require the round-the-clock presence of nurses and physicians, but its becoming increasingly challenging for hospitals to fill these shifts. The medical field in general is facing labor shortages, and the taxing nature of a job in the maternity ward can make it even harder to retain specialists, according to health experts. As many as three-quarters of OB/GYNs experience professional burnout, an American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists report found. Its really just, where have the doctors gone? said Flicker, chair of obstetrics and gynecology in the Lehigh Valley Health Network. Many are taking early retirements, she said, or moving out of direct clinical care. The same thing is happening with nurses in maternity units, Flicker added. Even outside hospitals, obstetricians are in short supply in many rural parts of Pennsylvania, and of those who are practicing, a higher percentage are over age 75 compared to other areas of the commonwealth, according to a report by the Center for Rural Pennsylvania. The number of OB/GYNs in Pennsylvania is expected to flatline between 2018 and 2028, with 0% growth forecasted by analysts at Projections Central, a federally-funded program that makes state and local projections. And that prognostication doesnt take into account the rural-urban divide. New physicians are sometimes reluctant to leave urban areas where they have more professional support and community amenities, so reversing that trend could be challenging, experts say. The erosion of robust health systems in some rural communities can also discourage health providers from moving into them, creating something of a vicious cycle, said Davis, director of the rural health office. In 2020, six Pennsylvania counties met the criteria for a maternity desert because of the absence of delivery hospitals or obstetricians in those areas, according to the March of Dimes. These deserts are only expected to multiply. In the meantime, services continue receding. Wilkes-Barre General Hospital is among the latest medical facilities to stop delivering babies. Erica Acosta, director of diversity initiatives at Wilkes University, was one of the women whod been planning to give birth there. But about halfway through her pregnancy, when the hospital announced it would close its maternity ward, she had to make a quick pivot to another medical center and another physician. Acosta said shed chosen her original provider carefully; as a woman of color, shes intentional about seeking physicians who look like her, although thats not always easy because of the lack of diversity in the medical field, she said. And though her pregnancy has been free of complications so far, she said it was still difficult to lose an OB/GYN whod been with her since she started contemplating having a second child. Its very traumatic because you build trust. I told them I want to have a baby. They already knew my life story, she said. So now I have to start over and be vulnerable with people I dont know. More: How to find maternity care in rural Pennsylvania The importance of maternity care For many young and healthy pregnant women, prenatal visits mostly provide reassurance that their babies are developing normally and everything is on track, Beck said. But with increasing obesity rates and the number of women who are having babies later in life, she explained, more pregnancies are no longer in the low-risk category, and these medical appointments can play an essential role in addressing pre-existing diseases and other health concerns. During early visits, physicians check a pregnant patients general health and monitor her for signs of preeclampsia. In certain cases, it might have been years since a person has seen a medical professional. Sometimes pregnancy is the only time we get the opportunity to take care of decades of diabetes or high blood pressure that somebody has not been controlling, Beck said. Prenatal care is also vital in screening for substance-use disorders, medical experts say. Accidental or intentional overdoses are the leading cause of maternal death in Pennsylvania, and Flicker said its scary to see hospitals closing and providers leaving in rural communities where at-risk women live. Researchers have linked fewer pregnancy appointments to preterm birth and low birth weight. Still, in rural Somerset County, roughly one of every 20 babies is born without any prenatal care, according to the Center for Rural Pennsylvania. And the number of women in southcentral Pennsylvania who are forgoing a first-trimester doctors visit is on the rise, said Kim Amsley-Camp, a Chambersburg-based midwife with Keystone Health. Getting to these appointments can be challenging for many women, especially those who live far away from the nearest hospital or clinic. Women who dont have their own cars or who share one with a partner struggle to travel to their appointments, especially considering the lack of robust public transportation options in many rural areas, experts say. Others already have kids and dont have anyone to watch their children while theyre away at a doctors office or cant afford to take time off from their jobs. Particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, some people distrust the medical profession, Amsley-Camp said, and many dont have adequate insurance coverage. Davis said some pregnant women access services in their local emergency rooms, which she said is an important option but is also expensive and deprives the patient of the ability to form a long-term relationship with prenatal providers. Distance can also create complications when its time to give birth, experts say. Pennsylvania hospitals with obstetric and OB/GYN combined beds, broken down by rural and urban counties. The figure was prepared by the Center for Rural Pennsylvania based on 2020 data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau. For women who arent sure if theyre in labor, heading over to the hospital might not be a big deal if they live a few minutes down the road. The decision looks much different when someone is an hour or more away and doesnt want to make an unnecessary trip, Amsley-Camp said. Davis has been hearing about paramedics in rural areas delivering babies in the back of ambulances rushing to the hospital but unable to make it in time. Between 2010 and 2020, the number of live births that happened in Pennsylvania homes and doctors offices (or other locations outside of a hospital or birthing center) shot up by roughly 50%, even as the overall number of deliveries declined, according to state health department data, though these figures are not broken down between rural and urban counties. Amsley-Camp knows of one woman who gave birth to twins in her driveway. As people move to rural areas with the telework boom, healthcare access could be one factor as they choose a small-town home, says Abby Weaver, a mother and business owner in Schuylkill County. As Weaver recently navigated a complicated pregnancy, she says she appreciated the proximity of her towns hospital, which is part of the Lehigh Valley Health Network. A recent Center for Rural Pennsylvania report found that more people were moving into rural counties than out of them in 2019 and 2020. But Weaver, who has been part of Pottsvilles revitalization efforts for the past six or seven years, said new arrivals often expect big-city amenities and services to follow them. You have to be able to match things like what you see in bigger cities, like a coffee shop, like good health care, like good school systems, for people to choose you, she said. What are the solutions? There arent any simple ways to halt the expansion of Pennsylvanias maternity deserts, but analysts and experts are full of ideas about where to start. Increasing Medicaid rates which are set at a state level could make a dent in the problem, but Davis said because of policymakers reluctance to drive up healthcare costs, the chances of that happening in the near future seem remote. The commonwealths leaders could also look at expanding transportation services in rural communities, working with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to add ride programs, she said. Doing more to recruit health professionals and opening more standalone birthing centers which now operate only in Pennsylvanias urban counties could also make a difference. Christine Haas, executive director of the Midwife Center in Pittsburgh, said the proliferation of facilities like hers could definitely be part of closing service gaps. But she said various barriers stand in the way: There are steep startup costs for opening a birth center, and these facilities sometimes struggle with state requirements, such as needing to have a physician serve as a medical director. Even the Midwife Center, which Haas said is one of the nations largest birth centers, opted against opening a second location because of the challenges involved, she said. However, change could be on the horizon as congressional lawmakers consider legislation that would aim to improve reimbursement for services offered by freestanding birth centers, Haas said. This bipartisan legislation, called the BABIES Act, has been introduced in both the U.S. House and Senate. The Center for Rural Pennsylvania report also suggests the commonwealth could make more of the midwives, doulas, lactation consultants and other medical professionals to help close some of the provider gaps. For example, nurse-midwives must now have an established collaborative agreement with a physician in order to practice to the full extent of their training, and many times that means they must affiliate with a large medical system, according to Amsley-Camp. These restrictions can prevent midwives from being able to open their own smaller practices in underserved areas, she said. To have a practice out of these outlying counties would be fantastic, she said. But if the (midwife) is not working for one of these big organizations, the physician is not going to sign on. Its an unknown entity. More: What a Wayne Memorial and Barnes-Kasson partnership means for patients With the expansion of telehealth, medical providers can also look at handling some prenatal visits virtually rather than making women come into the practice every time. In more remote areas, maybe it makes sense to send pregnant people home with a scale and a blood pressure cuff to use during online appointments so they can avoid a few long drives to the clinic, Flicker said. In order for that to work, though, many rural communities would need better access to broadband. And with nonprofit groups already targeting rural underserved populations, state lawmakers could consider making more investments in programs that already exist, according to the Center for Rural Pennsylvania report. Federally-qualified health centers, or federally-funded nonprofit clinics that target underserved populations, are one important resource for rural communities, experts say. One of them, Primary Health Network, runs about 50 sites in 16 Pennsylvania counties, providing care regardless of a patients insurance status or ability to pay, according to George Garrow, the organizations chief executive officer. These centers dont have delivery rooms, but they do provide prenatal and postpartum services and help patients confront any barriers to accessing care, Garrow said. Rodriguez, the expectant mother in Montrose, said she isnt sure how shed have managed if not for Elizabeth Cassidy, a nurse who works for a Pennsylvania nonprofit called Maternal and Family Health Services. While she has to navigate winding rural highways to most of her appointments, Cassidy comes to Rodriguez, spending time chatting on her living room couch or in the local Dunkin Donuts. She was the first to help Rodriguez identify her blood pressure as a concern, and the pregnant woman says shes come to consider the nurse a friend. I would probably fight somebody if they were mean to her, joked Rodriguez, who ended up delivering her son Aug. 18. Nurse Elizabeth Cassidy, right, confers with a pregnant client, Tiffany Rodriguez, outside Rodriguez's apartment in Montrose on Aug. 8. Rodriguez gave birth to a son, Carter, on Aug. 18. The nurse-family partnership, a program within Maternal and Family Health Services serving lower-income mothers, assigns nurses like Cassidy to meet with clients throughout their pregnancy and in the first two years of their childs life. Through the program, Rodriguez has also gotten access to educational resources, baby supplies and sessions with a trained counselor. While Maternal and Family Health Services operates in eastern Pennsylvania, different organizations run nurse-family partnerships in other parts of the commonwealth. However, about 20 counties fall outside the programs scope, and because it targets first-time mothers and includes income restrictions, not all families are eligible. Cassidy says the challenges Rodriguez faces in accessing medical care are not uncommon for the women she serves. Nothing is closer than 40 minutes, 45 minutes for any of these clients, she said. The USA Today Network is covering health care access issues in rural parts of the commonwealth. As part of this reporting, were interested in hearing from Pennsylvanians in these communities who have struggled to access medical, dental and mental health care. Fill out the form at bit.ly/pa-maternity and your response will go directly to a USA Today Network reporter. You may be contacted for further details about your story. This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: Why is pregnancy care so hard to find in parts of rural Pa.? President Biden ordered federal agencies on Wednesday to prioritize restoring wild salmon and steelhead in the Columbia River Basin, including the Snake River. It is a historic document, reflecting salmon recovery as a national priority, said the National Wildlife Federation. Biden said he was committed to honoring the nations obligations to tribal nations and protecting and restoring Americas natural wonders for future generations. But he tempered his order with language on the benefits of the river and dams, as tribes, environmental groups and professional and recreational fishing organizations have called for tearing down the four Snake River dams in Eastern Washington. The order said it is the Biden administrations policy not only to restore salmon, steelhead and other native fish populations, but also to continue benefits now provided by the Columbia River system and its dams. That includes his administrations policy to secure a clean and resilient energy future for the region; to support local agriculture and its role in food security domestically and globally; and to invest in the communities that depend on the services provided by the basins federal dams ..., the order said. Water from the Snake River rushes down a fish ladder at Lower Monumental Dam on the Snake River. Im really glad President Biden and his administration are taking salmon recovery and tribal treaty rights seriously and working from every angle to restore fish populations in the Columbia River Basin, while meeting the regions resiliency needs, said Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash. But Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Wash., said that while the order has no explicit recommendation to breach the four lower Snake River dams that is the goal of this administration. The direction from President Biden proves that his administration and dam-breaching advocates will continue to pretend to hear feedback from the community to give the perception that residents and stakeholders are being heard, he said. The sad truth is, this has not been a collaborative process all along and they are only seeking to accomplish one predetermined outcome a breach of the four lower Snake River dams. Scott Simms, executive director of the Public Power Council, said he was glad the Biden administration has realized the complexity of the Columbia-Snake River system and didnt succumb to the false promises of easy solutions advanced by some single interest advocates. The four Snake River hydropower dams provide more than 1,000 megawatts of clean energy, or enough to power 800,000 homes. They also make possible barging of 10% of U.S. wheat exports, plus other agriculture products that otherwise would be moved to the coast for export by trucks and rail, increasing carbon emissions, and the irrigation of farmland. Goals in addition to saving salmon in the presidents order cannot be achieved without the dams, said Kurt Miller, executive director of Northwest RiverPartners, which represents Northwest electric utilities, plus river transportation and agriculture interests. The White House has discovered this is hard because we are trying to make sure that every sector is healthy, and that is really challenging, Miller said. What Biden order requires The Columbia River and its tributaries, wetlands and estuaries are the lifeblood of the Pacific Northwest, the presidential order said. The river ecosystem has supported ways of life, cultural and spiritual practices, commerce and economic growth for generations and continues to provide our nation with abundant water, power, recreation, agriculture, transportation and opportunity, said a White House fact sheet on the presidents order. A barge travels the lower Snake River in Eastern Washington. A four-barge tow can carry as much wheat as 500 semi trucks, according to Pacific Northwest Waterways Association. Since 1855, when treaties were signed with four tribal nations, the ability of tribes to exercise their rights to fish have been substantially harmed by federal dams, private dams, population growth and overfishing that have changed the ecosystem and severely depleted wild fish populations in the region, it said. In 1855, an estimated 7.5 million to 16 million adult salmon and steelhead returned to the Columbia River Basin each year. Now 13 salmon and steelhead species in the basin are listed as threatened or endangered. The order directs federal agencies in the next 120 days to review their programs affecting native fish populations in the basin for consistency with Bidens policy to honor treaty responsibilities and protect fish affected by the federal dams while also making sure other benefits continue to be available. Within 220 days they must provide the Office of Management and Budget at the White House an assessment of their programs advancing Bidens policy and resources needed. They should prioritize those activities in their program and budget planning, it said. They also have 120 days to provide the president with an update on partnerships with tribes in Washington, Oregon, Montana and Idaho. Public input on Snake dams Litigation in the long-running federal case over the Snake River dams has been extended 60 days to allow federal mediation to continue but community members impacted by the lawsuit are being left in the dark as negotiations take place behind closed doors, Newhouse said. Simms said that the administration should include full and equal participation by all stakeholders and focus on true collaborative solutions. The Public Power Council, which represents more than 100 consumer-owned electric utilities in the Pacific Northwest, has been focused on long-term solutions where the health of salmon and a producing hydro system are not positioned as mutually exclusive, he said. Four hydroelectric dams on the Snake River in Eastern Washington are proposed to be removed or breached to improve salmon runs. Reliable and carbon-free generation help the Pacific Northwest confront headwinds such as extreme climate events, new policy goals, rapid electrification and increasingly stressed grid conditions, he said. He also pointed out that the Bonneville Power Administration has invested more than $6.8 billion for fish and wildlife mitigation measures over the past decade. Northwest RiverPartners also called for greater public involvement by those affected by any changes to the river system. Miller called the White House announcement bittersweet. While it recognizes the role of the lower Snake River hydroelectric dams in meeting clean energy, climate, economic and salmon recovery objects, it builds on and extends a flawed process that has denied affected stakeholders and the public a meaningful role, Miller said. He also was disappointed that Bidens memorandum ignores the 2020 environmental study on the Columbia River System, he said. It rejected calls to breach the four lower Snake River dams after considering not only benefits and risks to juvenile and adult endangered and threatened fish, but also the social and economic effects of changes to the system. The issues of energy affordability, reliability and increasing clean energy must be central to any plan for the river system, Columbia RiverPartners said. More than 25% of the Columbia Basin region qualifies as energy burdened. Multiple studies have shown that replacing the energy from the Lower Snake River dams would be $15 billion or more, according to Columbia RiverPartners. Calls for removing Snake dams But the National Wildlife Federation said Bidens order sends a clear message throughout federal government that business as usual is no longer acceptable and that taking action is urgent. It reflects a change from avoiding jeopardy under the Endangered Species Act to to achieving healthy and abundant populations, the federation said. Male adult chinook salmon are held in a holding pond at a fish hatchery in Washington state. That is a big change, said Jacqueline Koch, communications manager for the foundation. Plaintiffs in the federal court litigation over restoring Snake River salmon and other environmental and fishing groups applauded the presidents order. We need a comprehensive plan to breach the dams and replace their services and we need it now, before salmon run out of time, said Earthjustice Attorney Amanda Goodin. Restoring Columbia Basin salmon runs will be a huge economic benefit to the region, said Glen Spain of the Pacific Coast Federation of Fishermens Associations. Even with commercial coastal salmon fisheries severely depressed, it still is a billion dollar industry supporting tens of thousands West Coast jobs, he said. Chris Wood, president of Trout Unlimited, said while focusing the federal government on reversing the decline of wild salmon and steelhead is a welcome step, it is only a half step without removal of the lower Snake River dams to provide cold water habitat for native fish. The executive director of the Idaho Wildlife Federation, Brian Brooks, said that Bidens memorandum finally puts us on the path toward fish abundance that provides economic, ecologic and cultural viability. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) The feared Nipah virus has not been detected in the country despite a reported rise in fever and flu-like illnesses in Cagayan de Oro, the Department of Health (DOH) said Thursday. "Dito po sa Pilipinas, wala po tayong detection. Meron lang po tayo nung huli in 2014 in Sultan Kudarat, where there were a number of individuals in a community na nadectan ito," DOH Usec. Maria Rosario Vergeire said during the Senate deliberation for the proposed 2024 budget of the DOH and its attached agencies. "Sa ngayon po, wala po tayong nade-detect pa." [Translation: Here in the Philippines, we have no detection [of the virus]. The last detection we have was way back 2014 in Sultan Kudarat...For now, we have no detection of the [Nipah virus]. Vergeire said that although there is no confirmed entry of Nipah virus, they have reactivated an inter-agency body to be prepared. "Ang DENR po ay nagko-conduct na ng random surveillance sampling among our bat population. We're issuing advisories na mag-avoid na muna ang mga tao going to these mga bats na habitat," Vergeire said, explaining that the primary infection comes from bats. [Translation: The DENR is conducting a random surveillance sampling among our bat population. We're issuing advisories instructing people to avoid bat habitats for now.] Vergeire said other countries have detected the virus in horses, pigs, and even with dogs. "Kailangan po kasi na maintindihan ng mga tao kung saan siya nanggaling, maaari po kasi manggaling lang siya mismo sa bats, may droppings 'yung bats, kumain siya ng prutas tapos nalaglag 'yung kalahati ng [kinakain ng bat] tapos kinain ng bata. Maari rin pong 'yung ma-infect ng bat 'yung isa pang hayop katulad ng kabayo, baboy, o minsan 'yung aso sa ibang bansa," she added. [Translation: The people need to understand where it's coming from, because it can come directly from bats, if the bats have droplets. For example, the bat ate a fruit then it dropped and a child ate the fruit half-eatern by the bat. Or the bat can also infect other animals like horses, pigs, or sometimes dogs, according to the other countries.] Meanwhile, DOH's Northern Mindanao office said it is aware that several teachers and students are exhibiting the same signs and symptoms as Nipah virus, but that it is not yet clear if it is due to the virus because these are common symptoms. "The DOH officially maintains that there are no Nipah Virus cases in the nation. Although there have been instances of both faculty and students here in Cagayan de Oro who are exhibiting the signs and symptoms of the viral illness, it is not yet clear whether a particular virus is to blame," it said in a statement on Wednesday. Classes in CDO were suspended on Wednesday as widespread coughs and colds were reported in schools. The DOH regional office and the local government unit of CDO urged residents to follow COVID-19 protocols, such as wearing of face masks, physical distancing, and isolation, to prevent the spread of any infection. Nipah is a zoonotic virus transmitted from animals such as bats or pigs to humans, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). However, it can also be transmitted through contaminated food or directly between people. The WHO says people infected with Nipah Virus initially develop symptoms including fever, headaches, muscle pain, vomiting, and sore throat. This can be followed by dizziness, drowsiness, altered consciousness, and neurological signs that indicate acute encephalitis. The case fatality rate is estimated at 40% to 75%. There are currently no vaccines or medicines to prevent or cure Nipah Virus, so the only recourse is reducing exposure and transmission. The state of Kerala in southern India is taking measures to contain an outbreak of the virus after two people died from the rare and often deadly disease, shutting schools and testing hundreds to prevent its spread. President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints speaks during the 193rd Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Salt Lake City on Sunday, April 2, 2023. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News President Russell M. Nelson suffered a fall two days after his 99th birthday and will watch remotely this weekend as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints holds an international general conference. This weekend, however, I will be watching general conference through technology just as most of you will, he announced on X, the platform formally known as Twitter. Three weeks ago, I fell and injured the muscles in my lower back. He said he still hoped to record a general conference message. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles will watch the conference from home. He continues to recuperate from recent health challenges, the church announced in a news release. Dear brothers, sisters and friends, we have the cherished opportunity this coming weekend to attend or watch our semiannual general conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints! General conference weekends are two of my favorite weekends of the year. How I love pic.twitter.com/cINTqRQLmS Russell M. Nelson (@NelsonRussellM) September 28, 2023 President Nelson also said his back is healing, but his doctor has prescribed a deliberate approach. Having prescribed just such a course of action for many of my own patients years ago, I feel duty-bound to follow doctors orders, he said. President Nelson met with leaders of the University of Utah on Aug. 30 to donate the medical journals from his career as a pioneering heart surgeon. Related He turned 99 on Sept. 9, and celebrated with members of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve on Friday, Sept. 8. He said he fell two days after the celebration, on Sept. 10. Here is President Nelsons entire message: Dear brothers, sisters and friends, we have the cherished opportunity this coming weekend to attend or watch our semiannual general conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints! General conference weekends are two of my favorite weekends of the year. How I love meeting in the Conference Center in Salt Lake City with all who gather there. This weekend, however, I will be watching general conference through technology just as most of you will. Three weeks ago, I fell and injured the muscles in my lower back. This episode has reminded me of the reality that things sometimes change quickly in our lives. This photo of my counselors and me was taken at the celebration of my 99th birthday. Two days later, I fell. Thankfully, my healing is progressing. But as my physician says, We dont have much data on how 99-year-olds recover from an injury like this one, so I am prescribing a slow, careful approach to healing so that you achieve a full recovery. Having prescribed just such a course of action for many of my own patients years ago, I feel duty-bound to follow doctors orders. I am still not able to sit in a chair for long periods of time. However, I am hoping to record my general conference message and look forward to participating in this marvelous October 2023 general conference through technology. I pray that each of us, wherever we may be, will approach this sacred weekend with our hearts full of gratitude for the privilege of hearing the gospel of Jesus Christ proclaimed by His servants. May this general conference be a time of joy and spiritual rejuvenation for you. I know that it will be for me! President Russell M. Nelson, center, poses for a photograph on his 99th birthday with his counselors in the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, President Dallin H. Oaks, left, and President Henry B. Eyring at his office in the Church Administration Building in Salt Lake City on Sept. 9, 2023. | The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints A news release expressed leaders gratitutude for prayers on their behalf. The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles sincerely appreciate the love and support offered by members and friends of the church around the world. Each is grateful for the prayers offered on their behalf to help sustain them in their ministry of testifying of the Savior Jesus Christ. The churchs 193rd Semiannual General Conference originates from the Conference Center in Salt Lake City and will be broadcast globally in five unique two-hour sessions: Saturday, September 30 10 a.m. MDT General session. 2 p.m. MDT General session. 6 p.m. MDT Evening session. Sunday, October 1 10 a.m. MDT General session. 2 p.m. MDT General session. For decades, the prestigious humanities magnet program at Grover Cleveland Charter High School sent students to the nation's best colleges, but it also fostered a culture of sexual abuse in which students were exploited by their teachers. That legacy is now costing the Los Angeles Unified School District millions of dollars. The L.A. Unified school board approved a $7.9-million settlement Tuesday with a 40-year-old woman who said she was sexually abused by a teacher who worked on the Reseda campus. The suit is the fourth settled by the district in connection with teachers in Cleveland's Core humanities program. With this settlement, the district's total payout this year climbs to $15.1 million, to four former Cleveland students who alleged they were groomed, manipulated and sexually abused between the mid-1990s and 2009. Read more: Moorpark school district places teacher on leave after racist, profanity-laced rant against street vendor Tuesday's settlement involved a woman who said that when she was a teenager, now-deceased teacher Chris Miller and his colleague Vivian Atkin manipulated her into a sexual relationship. The litigation alleges the pair, married to other people at the time, were involved in an extramarital affair and groomed the teen for a couple of years before revealing their relationship to her when she was in the 11th grade. "Outrageously, the district's lawyers argued, because the sex did not happen on campus, the district didn't have a responsibility," said attorney John Taylor, who represents the woman and four other former students in various lawsuits. "They ignored the grooming and manipulation that occurred on campus." Miller and his colleagues wanted to disrupt the status quo and cultivated contact beyond the classroom with students, blurring the traditional lines of behavior, according to the lawsuits. Throughout her senior year in 2001, the woman alleged, she would often leave school early with one or both teachers. In January of that year, Miller began sexually abusing her at his home, she said. In May 2001, she alleged, while Atkin's husband was out of town, Miller and the girl went to Atkin's Brentwood apartment, and both teachers sexually abused the teen simultaneously and then forced her to watch Atkin engage in sexual relations with Miller. According to court records, while denying she abused the girl, Atkin admitted in her deposition that Miller and the student came to her house in May 2001 while her husband was away so that they could have a "healing ceremony" due to her having had a mastectomy. Atkin's version of the events states, "Candles and incense were lit and the girl painted Atkin's bare chest." Read more: LAUSD moves to bar charter schools from scores of campuses, citing tensions David Ring and Taylor, attorneys for previous plaintiffs against the school, now in their 30s and 40s, say the Core program at the Reseda school campus had a long history of abuse by its teachers. They maintain that the district's negligence allowed teachers to groom students so they could manipulate, exploit and abuse them and leave them with a legacy of post-traumatic stress. The teachers named in the four suits settled were Atkin, Miller, Richard Coleman and Brett Shufelt, all of whom were part of the humanities magnet program. For more than 40 years, the nationally acclaimed program has produced graduates who have gone on to prestigious universities. None of the teachers named in the lawsuits are working in L.A. now. According to a brief prepared for trial, the school had received numerous complaints, including from a former student who is now a Superior Court judge, who told an assistant principal in the early 1990s that Miller behaved inappropriately with female students. Court documents stated that, in the mid-1990s, Miller pulled his pants down, exposing his underwear to his class, and also unzipped his pants in front of a student. Both incidents were reported to Cleveland's administration. In the 1994-95 school year, a student's mother found inappropriate letters from Miller to her daughter and complained directly to the same assistant principal, court records show. At the end of the 1997-98 school year, another student's mother complained directly to the then-principal of Cleveland High School about the teacher propositioning a female student. According to the litigation, the abuse was rooted in the 1980s and began with another teacher who quit the school amid concerns about his behavior, but administrators turned a blind eye to blatantly inappropriate behavior. Read more: How small is too small? UC Regents delay approval of new UCLA dorm, questioning room size In another of the lawsuits, a woman alleged Miller, from 1994 to 1996, had a sexual relationship with her and coerced her into not reporting him. In April, that lawsuit was settled for $1.95 million, according to court records. Another woman who attended the school from 1992 to 1996 said that, as a student, she was manipulated into a sexual relationship with teacher Coleman. In that case, the former student alleged Miller asked her if she was keeping Coleman happy and smiling. Los Angeles Unified settled the suit for $3 million in April. The most recent allegation involved teacher Shufelt, who is accused of abusing a student in 2008 and 2009. The suit that resulted was settled in April for $2.25 million. One lawsuit remains unresolved. That victim was abused by teacher Bill Paden in 2006. He was arrested in 2008 and, the following year, convicted of misdemeanor statutory rape. According to the lawsuit, the same teenager was also sexually abused by Coleman in her senior year in the spring of 2007. 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. A much-anticipated oversight report from a privacy and civil liberties watchdog will urge Congress to impose significant new constraints on a controversial foreign surveillance tool before it expires later this year, according to a copy of the report obtained by POLITICO. But the recommendations from the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board are unlikely to settle an increasingly bitter debate between the White House and different factions on the Hill about how the law should be amended to protect the privacy of Americans. The five-member panel split along partisan lines, with its two Republicans criticizing the roughly 300-page analysis and its 19 recommendations as deeply flawed. Some of the Majoritys recommendations are sound, and could provide helpful additional protections for privacy and civil liberties, write Beth Williams and Richard DiZinno in an annex to the report. Others would cause serious damage to the country and our national security, while negatively impacting the privacy of U.S. persons. On Thursday morning, those disagreements exploded into a complete breakdown of the normally low-profile privacy watchdog, with Williams and DiZinno issuing a press statement blasting the report as contrary to the evidence and unmoored from the law. We voted against releasing this Report on Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act it was approved only 3 to 2, the press release reads. Therefore, we did not think it appropriate to legitimize its release with our participation today. The 3-2 split marks a sharp break from the boards last review of the same law, in 2014, when it unanimously approved a baseline of 10 recommendations on better protecting Americans from improper eavesdropping. Codified into law almost two decades ago amid the global war on terrorism, Section 702 allows the National Security Agency to collect the texts, emails and other digital communications of foreigners located abroad from U.S. tech providers, like Facebook and Google. But when Americans communicate with targeted foreigners, their messages are swept up into a repository of data collected under the law. Four U.S. intelligence agencies the NSA, CIA, National Counterterrorism Center and the FBI can then query that database for information on U.S. citizens without acquiring a warrant. Critics of the law have long alleged the authority offers a "backdoor" around Americans privacy rights. In recent years, a special court overseeing the program has unearthed systematic privacy violations by the FBI, fueling a new, largely bipartisan push to overhaul the spy tool, which will expire at the end of the year absent congressional action. A court opinion released in May from the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, which oversees the program, found that FBI personnel had improperly accessed the database to seek information on individuals at the January 6 Capitol riot, the protests following George Floyds death and even donors to a U.S. congressional campaign. In the report, expected to be released Thursday, the three Democrats concluded that Section 702 remains extraordinarily valuable to countering a wide range of national security threats, and should be reauthorized. But they argued that the eavesdropping program presents significant privacy risks to Americans and could be reined in without undermining its intelligence value. The Board believes that the privacy and civil liberties risks posed by Section 702 can be reduced while preserving the programs value in protecting Americans national security, they concluded. Of the boards 19 recommendations, the most significant and contentious is likely to be a requirement that all U.S. spies and law enforcement personnel receive approval from the FISC each time they want to query the 702 repository for information on U.S. citizens. The scale of U.S. person queries, the number of compliance issues surrounding U.S. person queries, and the failure of current law and procedures to protect U.S. persons compels the Board to recommend a new approach, the three Democratic members wrote. The FISC would accept or reject each request using roughly the same compliance criteria the four agencies follow internally today: that the search is reasonably likely to return foreign intelligence information or, in the case of the FBI, evidence of a crime. The requirement falls short of demanding that the spy agencies acquire a probable cause warrant before combing through the database for information on Americans one of the fixes pro-reform lawmakers have pushed this year. The board also suggested carveouts in case of an emergency or if the agencies receive express consent from the object of a query. Still, the proposal will come as a major disappointment to the White House, which has argued that any form of court approval for those queries would significantly undercut national security. It contends warrantless searches are critical to identifying and protecting U.S. individuals who have been targeted by foreign intelligence services, terrorists or cyber criminals. The recommendation was one of the key points of contention behind the boards split. Williams and DiZinno, the two Republicans, argued that requiring a FISC review of searches would make it bureaucratically infeasible to conduct U.S. person searches and effectively destroy the crucial portion of the program that enables the U.S. government to prevent, among other things, terrorist attacks on our soil. For her part, the chair of the board, Sharon Bradford Franklin, recommended Congress go further and require a probable cause warrant in cases linked to domestic crime. The Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board is given access to classified information on Section 702, making it a trusted voice on the controversial and arcane eavesdropping program. But the split guidance means it is unlikely to settle the surveillance debate on Capitol Hill or within the White House. A bipartisan coalition of civil liberties-focused Democrats and conservative Republicans are pushing for a warrant requirement, a step that has long sparked heartburn among intelligence community allies in Congress and adamant opposition from the White House. But conservatives who are calling for changes to the spying tool are also seeking to push forward reforms that extend beyond Section 702 and tap into broader concerns within the party about politicization of the intelligence community. In their annex to the report, Williams and DiZinno offer seven independent recommendations, which are organized into three policy objectives. Two of those are likely to resonate strongly with conservatives: procedural, cultural and structural changes aimed at re-establishing public trust in the FBI and those to guard against the political weaponization of Section 702. The Majoritys Report fails to address many of these concerns, focusing instead on a scattershot list of old ideas disconnected from the current moment, they write. For the board's three Democrats, a through line of the reports 19 recommendations is that Congress should do more to limit how frequently Americans data is vacuumed into the database in the first place. The board recommended that lawmakers codify stricter guidelines about when foreigners can be targeted by U.S. spies, introduce post-hoc reviews of new eavesdropping requests, and force the intelligence community to try to estimate the volume of data it collects incidentally on Americans each year. Overall, nearly 250,000 foreigners were targeted under Section 702 last year, a figure that has increased 276 percent since 2013, the board noted. Although Section 702 targets can only be non-U.S. persons, through incidental collection the government acquires a substantial amount of U.S. persons communications as well, the report reads. While the term may make this collection sound insignificant it should not be understood as occurring infrequently or as an inconsequential part of the Section 702 program. The Melbourne Police Department is touting the success of its new mental health Mobile Response team, launched just over a year ago. WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS The program pairs police officers with mental health and social workers to provide assistance to people with severe mental health issues. So far this year, the Mobile Response Team has already responded 276 times. In August alone, the team was dispatched to 49 different crisis situations. READ: Altamonte Springs police officer accused of fleeing traffic stop in Deltona Were able to get to the scene pretty quickly and provide supports to help deescalate, connect to resources, MRT Program Manager Abby Pease explained. The program was launched last year through a partnership with the Central Florida Cares Health System and Brevard Family Partnership. The pilot program is funded through a three-year, $1.2 million grant received from the Florida Department of Children and Families. Melbourne Resident Madonna OConnor says shes grateful for the program. She knows first-hand the types of stress that can come with trying to support a family member having a mental health crisis. READ: Newborn sperm whale calf strands on beach near Marineland Theyre overwhelming. Theyre exhausting, whatever the case may be, OConnor said. This program is a relief for me. I can go to work. OConnor says her family has benefitted from ongoing crisis intervention, including peer support specialists. According to the police department, many people are opting to get additional, ongoing assistance after their initial contact with the team. In addition to mental health services, MRT clinicians also provide assistance for people experiencing problems such as homelessness, domestic violence, or drug addiction who could also benefit from the help of a mental health practitioner or social worker. READ: I never even had a chance: Dashcam video shows crash that critically injured Ocala police officer Then the officers arent going out to the house for the same people as often, Melbourne Police Department Sgt. Benjamin Slover explained. So it frees them up, both the comm center and our patrol officers, to go out and do law enforcement-related activities. If you yourself struggle or have a loved on that struggles, pick up the phone, call the non-emergency number, OConnor added. Pease says that other local police departments have expressed interest in launching similar programs. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. As prosecutors closed their case against two Chicago police officers Wednesday at the Leighton Criminal Court Building, they alleged that the officers shot an unarmed man, instigated a gunfight with the mans companion and then lied about it on official department forms. The officers, Christopher Liakopoulos, 44, and Ruben Reynoso, 43, are charged with two counts of aggravated battery with a firearm and two counts of official misconduct, all felonies, in connection with a July 2022 on-duty shooting in Pilsen that wounded one person. They are standing trial before Cook County Judge Lawrence Flood, who told a crowded gallery of observers that he plans to hand down a verdict Thursday afternoon. Before they knew they had to get their story straight, they lied, said Assistant States Attorney Alyssa Janicki. There is no justification here. The prosecutors entered into evidence reports that officers must fill out after they have used force in a police encounter. In those, Janicki said, Liakopoulos and Reynoso indicated that they were fired upon first. Surveillance video shows that to be untrue, she said. Jim McKay, an attorney for Reynoso, though, crumpled up a piece of paper during closing arguments, calling the reports garbage. (You) check off a box after youve been shot at, he said. What do you think these men are thinking after these stupid forms are filled out. Prosecutors allege that Liakopoulos and Reynoso were unjustified when they shot Miguel Medina, 24, in the 1000 block of West 18th Street around 7 a.m. on July 22, 2022. The officers, investigators with the major accidents squad, were driving to the police academy to give trainings that morning when Medina and the group he was with caught their eyes, prosecutors said. In an unmarked sedan, the officers passed the group and then slowly reversed back toward them. Medina, who testified for several hours Friday, said he and some friends, including one who was armed, were on 18th Street after being kicked out of a party nearby. They feared there were gang members in the car when they saw the sedan travel backward toward them, he said. Medina and the teen he was with began to approach the car, when, prosecutors said, they realized the occupants of the car were older, and turned away. Medina testified that he put up a hand to show he wasnt a threat. During the trial, prosecutors showed surveillance video that showed Medina and the teen confer before walking toward the sedan when the gunfire started. During closing arguments, Janicki stopped the video to show Medina putting up his hand and the teen running away. The teenager exchanged gunfire with the officers. After the shooting, the video shows the officers get out of the car, but they did not approach Medina, who was on the ground clutching his back. A man who lived nearby testified that he had medical training and took Medinas pulse and tried to pack the wounds. Assistant States Attorney Thomas Fryska argued that Liakopoulos and Reynoso did not approach Medina or try to kick away a gun because they knew he was unarmed. Its absolutely clear that the defendants knew Mr. Medina was unarmed, Fryska said. The officers attorneys, though, countered that Medina and the teen perpetrated a coordinated ambush of Chicago police officers. They argued that Medina lied at various points about his actions that night and early morning and that he worked together with the teen in the shooting. The defense called one witness Wednesday, a city worker who was in a street sweeping truck that morning. The worker testified that he saw a man in a white hooded sweatshirt, which video indicated was Medina, with a gun, and then later saw him exchanging something with the teen. For the love of God, the whole world is upside down, McKay said. For any woke prosecutor out there or a civil rights lawyer know this, the law of Illinois does not say a police officer has to take a bullet before he can discharge a weapon. The case is among a handful in recent years in which the Cook County states attorneys office has brought charges against local police officers in connection with allegations of unjustified force in on-duty incidents. mabuckley@chicagotribune.com Prosecutors in the case of Bryan Kohberger, the man charged in the fatal stabbings of four University of Idaho students, demanded customer information from Amazon related to the purchase of knives as part of their investigation, according to newly unsealed court documents. Kohberger faces four counts of first-degree murder in the November 13 killings of 21-year-olds Kaylee Goncalves and Madison Mogen; and 20-year-olds Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin, at their off-campus home in Moscow, Idaho. He is being held in the Latah County Jail without bail and the judge has entered not guilty pleas on his behalf. Prosecutors obtained search warrants earlier this year for customer accounts at multiple companies, including Amazon, Apple and PayPal. The name of the customer is redacted from the documents, along with details of what was found. Information demanded from Amazon in May included all detailed customer click activity pertaining to knives and accessories. Investigators received information from Amazon in June, the court documents show. Apple and PayPal also sent information requested in the warrants, according to the documents. CNN has reached out to Amazon, Apple and PayPal for comment. Kohbergers DNA is a statistical match for DNA found on the sheath of a knife at the crime scene, according to court documents filed earlier this year, although a weapon has not been found. The trial was set to start at the beginning of October, but that date was vacated when Kohberger waived his right to a speedy trial, and a new date has not yet been set. Goncalves father said he feels that justice is being delayed during the nerve-wracking wait for a trial date. Were patient, Steve Goncalves told CNNs Jim Sciutto, but it does make it a little bit more stressful. Youve got your time in court. Make it happen. The sooner we get this going, the sooner we get to the truth, Goncalves said in a message directed at the suspected killer during an interview on CNN Max. Goncalves family attorney Shanon Gray said he expects a trial date to be set once motions are heard next month. If you have a date that you can at least look forward to, its helpful for all the families involved, knowing that youre moving towards that day youre moving towards that end goal for a possible resolution in the case, Gray said. CNNs Taylor Romine and Lauren Mascarenhas contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty against a Florida man accused of killing a Lyft driver and fleeing before being captured in North Carolina, according to our ABC news partners at WFTS in Tampa Bay. In a recently filed court notice, prosecutors in Okeechobee County say they will seek the death sentence against Matthew Flores, who has been charged in the Jan. 30 murder of 74-year-old Gary Levin. This undated photo shows Gary Levin, 74, of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. Levin has been missing since Monday, Jan. 30, 2023, when his car was seen in Miami. Late Thursday, police in North Carolina found his car along with a Florida suspect in an earlier homicide, but Levin remained missing. WFTS reports that prosecutors noted many factors prior to filing the notice, including the timing of the killing while the suspect was fleeing a separate felony, and saying it was done in a cold, calculated, and premeditated manner. ALSO READ: Police investigating shooting into Lyft SUV on I-85 in north Charlotte Thirty-six-year-old Flores was indicted earlier this month for killing Levin and is currently in jail without bond. WFTS says he is set to be arraigned next week in Okeechobee County. WFTS reports that Flores has pleaded not guilty to a first-degree murder charge for reportedly shooting 43-year-old Jose Carlos Martinez on January 24 in Hardee County in central Florida. According to investigators, after shooting Martinez, Flores stole multiple cars and made his way up to Palm Beach County, where a friend ordered him a ride through Lyft, which was accepted by Levin. Flores shot Levin inside his 2022 Kia Stinger and left his body near Lake Okeechobee, according to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. WFTS says investigators found Levins body five days later following the retrace of his ride with Flores. Flores was finally taken into custody in North Carolina on February 2, only Channel 9 was at the scene in Rutherford County. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: (WATCH Uber driver shot while on route in north Charlotte, police say) Thirty-six years ago this week, two young sisters went missing after visiting the Oklahoma State Fair. Their bodies were found in a shallow grave a few weeks later, but police never found their killer. Now, almost four decades later, with a last-minute assist from The Oklahoman's Public Eye, the investigation into the deaths of Cheryl Genzer and Lisa Pennington has new life as remaining family members launch a citizen-led signature campaign to impanel a grand jury. Family friend Dorian Quillen has spent over 30 years helping the Pennington family investigate the sisters' deaths. She did much of the legwork preparing the grand jury documents and filed a petition last October to begin the process. The next step, if approved by a judge, would have been collecting enough signatures to impanel a grand jury that could hear new evidence. But after she filed the petition she waited and waited. Eleven months went by without hearing a word from the Oklahoma County District Court. At that point, Quillen reached out to Public Eye for help. Rocky Pennington and his wife, Charlette Pennington, pose for a photo Sept. 19, 2007, at their home in El Reno, with a sign about the case of their daughters, Lisa Pennington and Cheryl Genzer, who were killed after disappearing from the state fair in 1987. The two have since passed away, never finding answers in the case. The problem: A long wait becomes longer Quillen, a former newspaper reporter-turned private investigator-turned licensed professional counselor, had expected a judge to get back with her within four days of filing the petition request in October 2022. Four days is the amount of time, according to state law, that the court can take before saying whether citizen grand jury organizers can begin collecting signatures. In her first conversation with Public Eye, Quillen was baffled as to why the district court never responded. More: Public Eye investigates issues that impact you. This is what we've found so far The sense of urgency was clear. Quillen, with the help of Rainy Robinson, co-star of several shows featuring Dog the Bounty Hunter and his late wife Beth Chapman, had collected a lot of information that could be used to kickstart another investigation. The information includes leads about who was there that night, and who took part in the sisters' slayings. They now just had to convene the grand jury. Sisters disappeared after visiting the Oklahoma State Fair Cheryl, 25, and Lisa, 16, were last seen Sept. 23, 1987, after they had been to the fair and then had gone to a friend's house. They were reported missing several days later by their parents, Charlette and Rocky Pennington. They were found in a shallow grave, shot in the head. While persons of interest were identified early on, no suspect was immediately charged. Three years later, prosecutors charged Lane Henley III with murder based on witness testimony. That witness later recanted, however, so Henley was released. He died in 2015. As the Penningtons continued searching for their daughters' killer, they felt like the Oklahoma City Police Department wasn't doing enough to find the truth. Individuals who reached out to police with information about the case were told it was "closed" or that "everyone needs to let it go," according to the grand jury petition. The petition also notes the possible involvement of Joyce Gilchrist, the disgraced former chemist whom the Oklahoma City Police Department fired in 2001 after an FBI investigation that year questioned the validity of her forensic work and recommended the state re-examine her conclusions. Rocky and Charlette Pennington died in recent years and were buried alongside Cheryl and Lisa in a small cemetery outside of Geary. Quillen said she promised Charlette before she passed last year that she would continue to do everything she could to help the family find justice. What we found: A complicated courtroom process When Quillen reached out to Public Eye, she'd been waiting for 11 months to hear from the Oklahoma County District Court about whether she and her fellow petitioners could start collecting signatures. With enough signatures, the grand jury would be convened to hear the points raised by the petition. "We want an accounting of the evidence that exists. And we want to be able to put who we believe are the suspects at the scene," Robinson said. "A lot of these people have passed on, so whether there are charges that come from that, that's going to be up for a grand jury to decide." The document was drafted by Robinson and filed in time for the 35th anniversary of the girls' deaths. Days went by with no word, even though they expected to hear something within the constitutionally mandated four days. "No one seemed to know," Robinson said, referring to calls she made to county officials as she tried to find out what went wrong. A citizen-led grand jury petition in Oklahoma County is extremely rare. There have only been two others requested over the past decade, according to court records. That explains why hardly anyone at the courthouse knew the procedure. When Public Eye agreed to look into the case, we visited with officials at the courthouse to find out why their petition application went nowhere. One of the first stops was with the trial court administrator, who revealed the error. The original filing was made at the court clerk's office, which was the correct way to begin the process. Turns out, however, a step in the process was not taken. The Oklahoman's Public Eye investigative reporting project The petition sat dormant because no one from the clerk's office notified the chief district judge's office that it had been filed. That responsibility, we were told, is on the petitioners themselves and not the court clerk's staff. While that might be common knowledge for attorneys familiar with Oklahoma County District Court procedures, Quillen, Robinson and the family had no idea. With this new information, Quillen refiled the petition, and it was approved within days. "This has been the best week of this case in the entire 34 years that I've known about it," Quillen said. "I know the family's very excited. They feel hopeful for the first time in I think a very, very long time." Have a problem with slow bureaucracy or a sketchy business? Let Public Eye help. Email us at publiceye@oklahoman.com. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Family files grand jury petition for Oklahoma State Fair murders Police are asking for the publics help locating a teen who went missing from Roxbury two weeks ago. 13-year-old Isaiah Krasnecky is described as a 54, 140lb white male with curly brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen in the area of Athelwood Street on the evening of September 13 wearing a t-shirt, black shorts, and a gold necklace. Boston Police say Krasnecky has ties to the Springfield area. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to B-3 Detectives at 617-343-2285. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW China's first suspended monorail line launched Chinadaily.com.cn) 09:00, September 28, 2023 Xinhua China's first commercial suspended monorail line opened to the public on Tuesday in Wuhan, the capital of Hubei province, offering commuters a surreal experience like riding a futuristic vehicle in a sci-fi movie. Li Zhengying, a local resident who took the train on Wednesday, called her journey "extremely cool" and said she would bring her family for a ride the next time. "The view from the railcar was splendid. It was a fun ride," Li added. The operational first phase of the project covers a total distance of 10.5 kilometers and has six stations in the Optics Valley of China, a national innovation demonstration zone in Wuhan, according to Optics Valley Traffic Company, the operator of the line. The maximum operating speed of the monorail train is 60 km per hour and the two cars have a joint passenger capacity of 220. The transparent glass floor offers commuters an aerial view of the city. The line operates for 12 hours each day, between 8 am and 8 pm, with a train departing every 10 minutes. The entire operation process is fully automated and requires no human intervention, unless there is an emergency. Wang Anjun, head of the equipment system division of the monorail, said the number of passengers on the first two days exceeded their expectations. The railway operator had to bring down the train departure interval to eight minutes to clear the rush. The interval will be further shortened to cope with the sea of tourists during the National Day holiday, Wang said. Commuters can buy a monthly ticket with an unlimited number of rides for 120 yuan ($16). One-time and one-day tickets cost 30 yuan each till Oct 6, the end of the National Day holiday period. The one-day and one-time ticket fares after the holiday are yet to be announced. Wang Honggang, chief designer of China Railway Fourth Survey and Design Institute Group, one of the construction companies involved in the project, said the monorail route is very scenic as it links parks, lakes and hills in the Optics Valley. Wang Kecheng, senior designer at CRRC Qingdao Sifang, another company involved in the project, said the monorail uses multiple shock absorbers to increase the stability of the railcars and offer passengers a smoother ride. The railcars are made of light aluminum alloy to reduce weight, and boasts flywheel energy storage system, which converts electrical energy into kinetic energy for reuse during braking, the senior designer said. Huang Yingru said she brought her son from Shenzhen, Guangdong province, to Wuhan for a monorail ride during the trial runs in summer. "My son had seen videos of the suspended train online and wanted to take a ride. He was so excited and happy during the whole journey, especially because he could see the city through the glass floor. It was an amazing experience for both of us," she added. Xinhua Xinhua (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla handpicked three women prosecutors to lead the investigation into the alleged "cult activities" of Socorro Bayanihan Services, Inc (SBSI) in Surigao Del Norte, the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) said Thursday. IACAT Undersecretary Nicholas Felix Ty said the case was transferred from the Bayugan City Prosecutor's Office to the National Prosecution Service of the Department of Justice (DOJ). The head office noted the significance of this case and we had the case now finally transferred to the head office in the DOJ, Ty said during the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs inquiry into the SBSI. The secretary himself appointed, designated a panel of three women prosecutors who will independently preside over the preliminary investigation of the case, he added. Ty also said the panel already set the initial hearing in Manila on Oct. 9 and the subpoena will be served to the leaders of SBSI and their counsel within the day. Sen. Risa Hontiveros, Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality chair, earlier exposed the cult where rape, sexual violence, child abuse, and forced marriage allegedly take place. She said SBSI saw their president Jey Rence Senior Agila Quilario as their savior and that he led the group's cult-like activities. READ: Alleged Socorro cult denies sexual abuse among minors, defends child marriages The Senate on Thursday ordered the detention of Quilario, SBSI Vice President Mamerto Galanida, and ranking members Janeth Ajoc and Karren Sanico Jr. as lawmakers were dissatisfied with their answers. During the senate hearing, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Caraga Regional Director Angelito Magno said they have already served multiple subpoenas to the SBSI group leaders prior to endorsing the case to the provincial prosecutor. According to Magno, Socorro Mayor Riza Timcang filed the complaint addressed to the NBI director at the bureau's main office in May this year. Magno said NBI agents were sent to investigate the cult in Socorro on May 4. When we completed the investigation, we issued a subpoena to the leaders of SBSI to appear before our office on May 17, the director said. Magno said NBI had to issue another subpoena as members from SBSI requested the agency to set a different date since they were set to fly to South Korea. On May 17, nobody appeared. So, on May 18, the next day, we issued, again, another subpoena for them to appear at our office on May 30. Still, they did not appear for reasons only known to them, he added. Magno said they also issued a subpoena to ask if the SBSI group could give assurance agents will not be harmed after learning from key witnesses that the cult members were armed. The NBI said it recommended charges against Quilario and other leaders of SBSI for the crimes of qualified trafficking, kidnaping and serious illegal detention, violation of anti-child law and violation of anti-child abuse law. Philippine National Police officers in Caraga also reported that Quilario and the other leaders led the SBSI "motorcade" to invite more members to the cult on Jan. 1, 2021, despite measures in place during the COVID-19 pandemic. Exterior shot showing a section of the West Lake landfill Tuesday March 13, 2012, in Bridgeton, Missouri. Exterior shot showing a section of the West Lake landfill Tuesday March 13, 2012, in Bridgeton, Missouri. Imaginewakingup to find men in hazmat suits on rooftops and station wagons in your neighborhood, spraying an unknown chemical into your front yard. While this sounds like the plot of a horror movie, its the very real recollection of former residents of a St. Louis housing complex. These residents are seeking reparative compensation after reports found that the U.S. government secretly tested a potentially carcinogenic chemical in their community over 60 years ago. An ongoing investigation by The Missouri Independent, The Associated Press and independent media outlet MuckRock has uncovered substantial evidence indicating that during the rush to create the atomic bomb, the government and private companies covertly tested and dumped nuclear waste in neighborhoods of St. Louis near a Uranium processing plant. Hundreds of pages of internal memos recently analyzed by the AP revealed inspection reports and other items dating to the early 1950s, [that] found nonchalance and indifference to the risks of materials used in the development of nuclear weapons during and after World War II. A book published in 2017 found evidence that pregnant women and school-age children were also subject to secret radiation testing during this time. One affected area was a predominantly Black public housing complex called Pruitt-Igoe Housing. Throughout the 1950s and 60s, when the Army was conducting various secret tests related to the creation of the atomic bomb, residents thought the zinc cadmium sulfide sprayed into their community was mist or smoke from chimneys. Now, former Pruitt-Igoe residents are now mobilizing with members of other disenfranchised communities impacted by radiation testing during the Cold War who have not received support from the government. Zinc cadmium sulfide was also reportedly tested in at least three dozen other communities throughout St. Louis, which the army referenced as densely populated slums, shedding light on the socioeconomic makeup of areas selected for testing. We can all agree that this phrasing reflects the age-old American tradition of deeming Black lives disposable. The residents, specifically, are demanding the government expand the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, a reparative justice measure aimed at compensating those exposed to radiation during the creation of the atomic bomb. The Act is meant to facilitate health insurance and financial resources to individuals who develop certain illnesses and cancers who lived and worked downwind of testing sites. These regions include parts of Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Wyoming, South Dakota, Washington, Utah, Idaho, North Dakota, Oregon and Texas. Areas such as St. Louis, where residents were also exposed to radiation and other chemicals, are not included. Whats happening in St. Louis right now is particularly fraught because of the current conversation around both climate justice and reparations for Black Americans. Denying people of resources they are owed because of a traumatizing and dangerous event at the helm of the government should be deemed criminal. Injustices such as the contamination of Pruitt-Igoe prove that Black Americans historically bear the brunt of the U.S.s violence toward humans and the environment and deserve reprieve. The fact that what happened in St. Louis slid under the radar for so long is evidence that not enough is done to track how Black and Brown communities experience environmental racism. The truth is, the longer it takes to repair our most vulnerable communities, the further we stray from a healthier future for everyone. Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy seemingly backed controversial proposals that would limit teens under 16 from using social media platforms during a Wednesday night debate. This isnt a Republican point or a Democrat point, Ramaswamy said. But if youre 16 years old or under, you should not be using an addictive social media product, period. The conservative entrepreneur said the idea is something that we can both agree on, and in doing so can revive both the mental health of this country while stopping the fentanyl epidemic. Concerns around childrens online safety have emerged as a rare unifying issue across party lines, but proposals such as the one Ramaswamy suggested have not been as bipartisan. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), an outspoken critic of social media companies, in February put forward a bill that would ban children under 16 from using social media. Less extreme age restriction bills have earned bipartisan support. For example, a bipartisan bill introduced by Sens. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Katie Britt (R-Ala.) in May would require parental consent for teens to use social media. However, even that proposal, and similar legislation in states, has been criticized by opponents who argue it would have detrimental effects to youth, especially vulnerable minors including LGBTQ kids, by limiting their internet access. Meanwhile, other proposals aimed at making online spaces safer for children have gained bipartisan support. Two key bills, the Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act 2.0 (COPPA) and the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), advanced out the Senate Commerce Committee in July with bipartisan support. COPPA 2.0 would update privacy rules for minors and ban targeted advertising, and KOSA would create a duty for social media platforms to prevent and mitigate harm to minors. The two bills also advanced last Congress out of the Senate, but they did not receive floor votes by the end of the session. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy will be in Las Vegas Sunday for his first campaign rally in Nevada, his campaign announced Thursday. The path to victory in 2024 runs through states like Nevada, which is why Im thrilled to be making our first major campaign stop in the state this weekend, he said in a statement. Nevada is considered a key early voting state for Republicans. Ramaswamys announcement comes off a disappointing debate performance for the Ohio entrepreneur Wednesday night. His campaign has failed to capitalize on momentum gained after a headline-grabbing first debate and has lagged in recent weeks as voters increasingly see Ramaswamy as unlikable, according to polls. The Nevada Republican Party announced it will hold a caucus Feb. 8, bucking the state election calendar, which has a Feb. 6 primary scheduled, and ignoring a new state law requiring primaries instead of caucuses. That move is anticipated to aid former President Trump. It may also confuse voters, as rules passed by the state party ban candidates who participate in the sanctioned primary from participating in the caucus two days later. Ramaswamy was the first candidate to commit to the caucus, with Trump committing just after. Nevada will still hold a primary Feb. 6, though it is unclear which candidates will actually be on the ballot. The state GOP has already committed to ignoring its results. The rules between the contests also differ, with the Nevada GOP-run caucus eliminating mail-in voting, requiring voter ID and mandating the use of paper ballots. The Nevada GOP is run by Trump allies. Michael McDonald, the state party chair, was a so-called fake elector on behalf of Trump in schemes to overturn 2020 election results in Nevada. He said the caucus is spurred on by election security needs, not out of favoritism for Trump. Nevada is currently missing Voter ID, transparent tabulation in elections, precinct-based voting, and we see our streets and trash cans flooded with unsolicited mail-in ballots, McDonald told party members before the rule change. I will NEVER give up the fight for free and fair elections. Ken Cuccinelli, who heads the Never Back Down PAC supporting Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, argued the caucus strongly favors Trump. Trump hates rigged elections, except when hes doing the rigging, like hes doing in Nevada, Cuccinelli told The Associated Press. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy argued Wednesday night that children under 16 should not be using addictive social media platforms. This isnt a Republican point or a Democrat point, Ramaswamy said at the second GOP presidential debate in Simi Valley, Calif. But if youre 16 years old or under, you should not be using an addictive social media product, period. This is something that we can both agree on, he continued. And we can revive both the mental health of this country while stopping the fentanyl epidemic. The conservative entrepreneur criticized social media platforms while addressing concerns about fentanyl smuggling across the U.S.-Mexico border. He pointed to the story of an Iowa teenager who died after purchasing percocet on Snapchat that was laced with fentanyl. I refuse to be a passive bystander, sitting in the White House like the hollowed-out husk of a current president we have, Ramaswamy added. We will step up and address this problem to stand for Americans and our children. His remarks drew a skeptical response from fellow GOP hopeful Nikki Haley, however, who could be heard asking in the background: Why do you keep encouraging TikTok? Ramaswamy joined the video-based social media app earlier this month. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) reiterated his threat Thursday to hold up a Senate government funding bill because it includes more than $6 billion in funding for Ukraine. Paul wrote on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, that he would only allow a vote on the spending stopgap before the Sept. 30 deadline for funding government if Senate leaders pull out the money for Ukraine. To avoid a government shutdown, I will consent to an expedited vote on a clean CR without Ukraine aid on it. If leadership insists on funding another countrys government at the expense of our own government, all blame rests with their intransigence, he wrote. So far, neither Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) nor Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) have signaled any willingness to pull the Ukraine money out of the bill. Im comfortable with the way we put together the Senate bill, McConnell told reporters Wednesday. Anticipating Pauls objections to speeding up the floor debate, leaders have told rank-and-file senators to expect to vote through Sunday to get the temporary funding measure through the Senate. It would fund the government until Nov. 17. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. CHICAGO -- The many months Josh Burton was in the hospital, dinosaurs kept him company. They were there when his lungs failed, comforting him while he awaited the miracle of new lungs, just as his first dinosaur, a stuffed animal purple Barney, buoyed him as a small child. And when those lungs also failed and his family faced the impossible, when hospitals told them over and over they would not be able to try to save him, toy dinosaurs kept watch as his body struggled to breathe. Josh Burton is a soft-spoken, studious 17-year-old from Madison, Wisconsin, who is now on his third set of lungs. In 2020, he had shortness of breath after helping a neighbor retrieve a runway pet. He told his mom, Kelly Burton, he felt like he was having a heart attack; she thought surely that couldnt be the case. But they went to the doctor anyway, and soon found out he had a rare case of pulmonary veno-occlusive disease, which can lead to heart failure. Because of this, he needed a double lung transplant, an intensive procedure that involved finding donor lungs and transferring them into his teenage body. That happened in 2021. But the following year, his mother entered a room to find a team of doctors, an empty chair, a box of Kleenex and the information that her sons donated lungs were no longer working in his body. Of this time, Josh remembers, My mother wouldnt stop crying. Another double lung transplant, called a retransplant when its the second time, was his only option. But hospital after hospital said they couldnt do it. Resourceful, persistent, with her sons life at stake, Kelly Burton asked people from all layers of their life to help former students she knew through her work at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a cousin who worked at the Mayo Clinic, nurses at their local hospital where theyd initially been admitted. For Josh, who bounced back and forth between adult and childrens floors, his age meant he was sometimes in a gray area. His mother also found a gray area in the space of trying to save his life. You have to be sick enough to get a transplant but not so sick that youre going to risk having a successful outcome. Its a real fine line, she said. Throughout, she was determined, Im going to get him somewhere. In Chicago, Dr. Ankit Bharat, chief of thoracic surgery at the Canning Thoracic Institute at Northwestern Medicine, knew Joshs case was tricky. But those are the kind of cases he wants to take. We think of ourselves as a destination of hope, he said. We want to take patients who have low odds of survival and make them very high odds of survival. After all, Bharat said, Northwestern has stellar, experienced surgeons and anesthesiologists and specialists. If not there, where? If they only take cases where they are absolutely sure of success, who would they be leaving behind? So he looked at the teenager struggling to survive at Northwestern, Josh was on an ECMO machine that was doing the breathing for him, one of medicines last-ditch efforts to keep severely ill patients alive and kept trying to find him lungs. Because it is impossible to know until inspecting the actual organs if they will work for a transplant, the family said that year of waiting became a roller coaster of finding out lungs were available, specialists going to examine them and returning with the news that, again, it wouldnt work. This can happen because of pneumonia or other undetected illnesses in the donor lungs. Thirteen times, their team went to assess lungs only to deliver bad news. For three weeks, Kelly remembers, there were no offers of lungs. There were moments she would look at her sons skin and recognize it as the waxy texture that she knew meant the body was failing. Even her son, she feared, was giving up. He would tell her he couldnt do it anymore. He said he overheard nurses worrying he wouldnt make it. He had nearly died, at this point, several times. She told him, You can do it. You are doing it. You will do it. Finally, one night, a nurse came into their room, one who had been there before and gone to assess lungs before and knew the disappointments theyd shouldered. She hugged Kelly, on her way to see new lungs, both of them feeling giddy at the thought that this, the 14th set of lungs, might be it. Hours later, she received the news: Lungs are on their way. Josh entered the operating room in the middle of the night on June 28, returning after the hourslong surgery to a recovery room and waking up, his mom says, a different child. For the first time in months, Kelly saw his chest move. Up and down, up and down. Before he went into the operating room, she said, There was no movement. His lungs were doing nothing. Before the surgery, Josh said, The only thing that went through my mind was I didnt want to die. I didnt know how to drive; I didnt go to high school, or even prom. Now, he said, Its nice not to have to drag a whole canister around of oxygen. Breathing easier. Since then, theyve spent time doing occupational and speech therapy at the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, and staying in Chicago, as his doctors wanted him to stay nearby for three months to closely monitor his recovery. We think hes going to do really well long term, Bharat said. The teen has to take care of himself, taking medications and being careful not to expose his lungs to things like plumes of dirt, protecting the organ and himself. Still, Bharat expects this third set of lungs to last a long time. Over the years, Kelly Burton has looked for small signs that they were on a hopeful path. One was finding out Joshs first set of lungs was donated from another boy, also 14 at the time, also named Joshua. She has since met those parents. They are family to us in a way I cant describe, she said. Their Josh will always be our hero. Before they leave Chicago, after an only-in-Chicago, lifesaving transplant, Josh had one more only-in-Chicago experience. He got a behind-the-scenes look at the skull of Sue, the famed T. rex housed at the Field Museum. After a member of his medical team reached out to them about his dinosaur interest, the Field Museum offered Josh a special visit, during which he was able to see the fossils and speak with associate curator of fossil reptiles Jingmai OConnor, known as the punk rock paleontologist. A paleontologist is what Josh wants to be something he was worried he could no longer become because of the need to avoid dirt or anything that can hurt his lungs. His favorite dinosaur is an ankylosaurus, because of its cool protective spikes. OConnor delivered some good news. Josh can research dinosaurs without dust flying around. In fact, a majority of a paleontologists work is not done in the field, OConnor said. Many dont spend any time in the field and instead focus on, for example, fossil prep or analysis. Each fossil the Field Museum brings back can take weeks or even years to prepare, she said. Kelly and Josh are ready to return to life in Madison for him to finally experience high school after years of pandemic-related closures and hospital admissions that meant hes never really been at school for a time that feels real to him. Seeing him today except for the scars its hard to believe he was ever that sick, Kelly said. ____ Alison Bowen is a freelancer. Sign up for CNNs Wonder Theory science newsletter. Explore the universe with news on fascinating discoveries, scientific advancements and more. Round discs of barren dirt known as fairy circles look like rows of polka dots that can spread for miles over the ground. The phenomenons mysterious origins have intrigued scientists for decades and they may be far more widespread than once thought. Fairy circles were previously spotted only in the arid lands of Southern Africas Namib Desert and the outback of Western Australia. But a new study has used artificial intelligence to identify vegetation patterns resembling fairy circles in hundreds of new locations across 15 countries on three continents. This could help scientists understand fairy circles and their formation on a global scale. For the new survey, published Monday in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the researchers analyzed datasets containing high-resolution satellite images of drylands, or arid ecosystems with scant rainfall, from around the world. The search for patterns resembling fairy circles used a neural network a type of AI that processes information in a manner similar to that of a brain. The use of artificial intelligence based models on satellite imagery is the first time it has been done on a large scale to detect fairy-circle like patterns, said lead study author Dr. Emilio Guirado, a data scientist with the Multidisciplinary Institute for Environmental Studies at the University of Alicante in Spain, in an email. Hundreds of potential fairy circle sites First, the study authors trained the neural network to recognize fairy circles by inputting more than 15,000 satellite images taken over Namibia and Australia. Half of the images showed fairy circles, and half did not. The scientists then fed their AI a dataset with satellite views of nearly 575,000 plots of land around the world, each measuring about 2.5 acres (1 hectare). The neural network scanned vegetation in those images and identified repeating circular patterns that resembled patterns of known fairy circles, evaluating the circles sizes and shapes as well as their locations, pattern densities and distribution. Output of this analysis then required a human review, Guirado said. We had to manually discard some artificial and natural structures that were not fairy circles based on photo-interpretation and the context of the area, he explained. The results showed 263 dryland locations where there were circular patterns similar to fairy circles in Namibia and Australia. These arid spots were distributed across Africa (the Sahel, Western Sahara and the Horn of Africa) and were also clustered in Madagascar and Midwestern Asia, as well as central and Southwest Australia. Circle pattern recognition Fairy circles arent the only natural phenomenon that can produce round, repeated bare spots in a landscape. One factor that sets fairy circles apart from other types of vegetation gaps is a strongly ordered pattern between the circles, said Dr. Stephan Getzin, a researcher in the department of ecosystem modeling at the University of Gottingen in Germany. Getzin and colleagues published a November 2021 paper defining fairy circles and what made them unique, emphasizing details of the overall pattern structure, he told CNN in an email. And according to Getzin, who was not involved in the latest study, the newfound patterns fall short. Fairy circles are defined by the fact that they have, in principle, the ability to form a spatially periodic pattern, which is significantly more ordered than other patterns and none of the patterns in the survey clear that high bar, Getzin said. But in fact, there is no universally accepted definition of fairy circles, Guirado said. He and his coauthors identified potential fairy circles gauging the size and shape of individual circles, as well as the patterns they formed collectively by referencing guidelines established across multiple published studies. The metrics of those spatial patterns, in fairy circles old and new, are virtually the same, he said. Of the new locations that were identified, some passed muster with Dr. Fiona Walsh, who as part of an international team has investigated fairy circles in the Australian outback. Pattern distribution in Australia appears to be congruent with some of what we previously reported, said Walsh, an ethnoecologist at the University of Western Australia. Walsh was not involved in the new survey. Fairy circles mysterious origins The study authors also compiled environmental data where circles were spotted, collecting evidence that might hint at what causes them to form. The researchers determined that fairy circle-like patterns were most likely to occur in very dry, sandy soils that were high-alkaline and low in nitrogen. The scientists also found the fairy circle-like patterns helped stabilize ecosystems, increasing an areas resistance to disturbances such as floods or extreme drought. But the question What shapes fairy circles? is complex, and factors that create fairy circles may differ from site to site, the study authors reported. Getzin previously wrote that certain climate conditions, along with self-organization in plants, generated fairy circles in Namibia, and while insects such as termites take advantage of the dry patches, their activities dont directly produce the patterns, he said in the email. Walsh, however, said that Australias fairy circles are inextricably linked to termite activity. Their teams research, conducted in close collaboration with indigenous peoples, determined that in Western Australia and in the Northern Territory, termites are intrinsic to the functioning of fairy circles, called linyji in the Manyjilyjarra language, and mingkirri in the Warlpiri language, she told CNN in an email. Aboriginal people illustrated these patterns at least since the 1980s and said they knew of them for generations, probably millennia earlier, Walsh said. In Australia, termites do not simply play a role, she added. They are the primary mechanism and interpretations need to be centred on termite-grass-soil-water dynamics. Many questions about fairy circles have yet to be answered, and the authors of the new study are optimistic that their global atlas will open a new chapter in the study of these peculiar barren spots. We hope that the information we publish in the paper can provide scientists around the world with new areas of study that will solve new puzzles in the formation of fairy-circle patterns, Guirado said. Mindy Weisberger is a science writer and media producer whose work has appeared in Live Science, Scientific American and How It Works magazine. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The top Democrat on the House Oversight and Accountability Committee, Rep. Jamie Raskin (Md.), used Republicans own words against them and sought to subpoena Rudy Giuliani in an effort to undercut the GOPs impeachment inquiry into President Biden. In a lengthy opening statement replete with numerous props, including a countdown clock pointing to the pending government shutdown, Raskin cast the inquiry as being ignited by former President Trump while highlighting lingering doubts among a number of Republicans. If Republicans had a smoking gun or even a dripping water pistol, they would be presenting it today. Theyve got nothing on President Joe Biden. All they can do is return to the thoroughly demolished lie that Rudy Giuliani and Donald Trump launched five years ago. The Burisma conspiracy theory, a fairytale so preposterous that one of the main authors, Lev Parnas, has now disowned and repudiated it, Raskin said, nodding to a former associate of Giuliani, the former New York City mayor and lawyer to Trump. Much of Raskins statement focused on infighting among House Republicans. He displayed a series of comments from GOP lawmakers complaining about right-wing colleagues holding up a vote to fund the government. They dont have a shred of evidence against President Biden. Do you think Im being harsh? Heres what some Republicans had to say over the last week about the actions of the Republicans, Raskin said, displaying a smattering of quotes on a poster board. He also displayed a snippet from an op-ed from Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colo.) saying whats missing, despite years of investigation, is the smoking gun that connects Joe Biden to his neer-do-well sons corruption. Raskin closed his opening remarks by trying to force a vote to subpoena Giuliani and Parnas, who earlier this year wrote a letter saying his investigation into Burisma was nothing more than a wild goose chase that has been debunked again and again. Raskin made the motion calling Giuliani and Parnas the originators of the lie on which this sham impeachment is based and who worked to spread it. The effort was blocked by the committees Republicans. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) A utility worker died after he was trapped in a collapsed trench and buried under dirt and concrete in San Francisco, the San Francisco Fire Department said. The victim was working on a sewer line when 8-10 feet of debris fell on top of him. The fatal incident happened at a worksite in the Lower Haight neighborhood on the corner of Divisadero and Oak streets. The victim had been working below ground on a sewer project for the citys public utilities commission, Rachel Gorden of San Francisco Public Works told KRON4. They were below ground in an open trench doing sewer upgrade work, Gorden said. Fire crews immediately launched an effort to dig down and rescue him around 10:30 a.m. with 50 rescuers on scene. The worker was trapped in the trench for two hours before his lifeless body was found, the SFFD said. Video from SFFD showed fire crews near a hole in the ground with ropes nearby and rescuers digging dirt. Fire officials said specialized tools such as tripods, shoring equipment and a vacuum truck were utilized. Fire Captain Jonathan Baxter said, After being evaluated by our paramedics and our department physician unforcedly this individual did not survive the injuries associated to this. A worker was buried in a collapsed trench and killed in San Francisco on Sept. 28, 2023. (Image courtesy SF Fire Department) According to the San Francisco PUC, the victim was a private contractor working on a city sewer line. Its unclear why the trench suddenly collapsed. There are multiple agencies investigating this death, including Cal OSHA. Gorden said, We are inspecting to see what they were doing at the time of this trench collapse. Gorden said safety is the number one priority for any construction site. As of Thursday afternoon, the victims identity had not yet been released by officials. Dozens of residents gathered near the scene were sad to hear the news. Resident Rebecca Gallegos said the victim was just providing for his family, and went to work, and this person is not coming home today. (Photo: SFFD) Authorities are asking people to avoid the area and to take alternate routes. This is a developing story. Check back for updates. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla stressed the need to closely monitor Subic as it has become a gateway for smugglers, with authorities discovering 530 kilograms of cocaine in a Pampanga warehouse on Wednesday night. "We have to watch Subic. Subic din ang na-pinpoint namin na source ng agricultural smuggling (We have also pinpointed Subic as a source of agricultural smuggling)," he said during a briefing on Thursday. In a series of photos sent by Justice spokesperson Mico Clavano to media, authorities found several boxes, including some plastics containing chicharon. When scanned, they were positive for methamphetamine hydrochloride, more popularly known as shabu. The Justice chief said the smuggling operation was conducted in a "very sophisticated" manner. The National Bureau of Investigation has already a list of individuals to be arrested, he noted. Asked if foreign nationals could be behind the illegal operation, Remulla said "definitely." "Thailand is one of the sources. The markings of the packaging have Thai marking, sinama sa (included in) chicharon at dog feed. We don't know if this was used to hide the smell of drugs," Remulla said. In October 2022, local law enforcement also confiscated 990 kilos of shabu worth 6.7 billion in Tondo, Manila. As Floridas federal redistricting trial continued into its second day, focus shifted to expert testimony that argued Gov. Ron DeSantis intervention tainted the Legislatures map-making process. The case, being heard by a three-judge panel, continued to probe whether DeSantis intentionally discriminated against Black voters. The trial comes weeks after a state judge struck down North Floridas congressional districts, with DeSantis lawyers openly admitting the governor had violated the Florida Constitution. On the first day of the federal trial, DeSantis acting chief of staff Alex Kelly had argued that racial discrimination in Florida occurred a long time ago, but a day later, J. Morgan Kousser, a historian and expert in U.S. voting rights and racial discrimination, said Kelly was mistaken. Discrimination continues in Florida, Kousser stated emphatically. The focus on race and racial discrimination [when the Legislature was redistricting] makes clear the extent to which it is well and widely recognized that discrimination persists. Kousser pointed to voting rights cases that have continued unabated, like the one last year that successfully proved the Jacksonville City Council had racially gerrymandered its own districts. He also walked through the governors education policies, restricting books about racial discrimination and allowing curriculum from Prager University Foundation, a right-wing nonprofit that Kousser said teaches inaccurate history. He then walked through the history of redistricting this cycle, saying the governor violated standard practice, one of the factors the judges will consider when determining if the state intended to discriminate. First, the Legislature appeared to go to great lengths to protect Black voting rights in its map proposals. The House and Senate rebuffed DeSantis early attempts to intervene, rejecting his first proposed map, dismissing expert testimony his office arranged, and passing their own congressional plans even after the governor promised to veto them. DeSantis argued at the time that protecting Black voters in North Florida, either with a district that stretched from Jacksonville to Tallahassee or with a Jacksonville-only district, violated the U.S. Constitution because lawmakers took race into account. He acknowledged that past Florida Supreme Court precedent had created such a district and seemed to require its continuation. He asked the states highest court to provide an advisory opinion but was rebuffed. Then the Legislatures resolve changed after the veto. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis broke up a Black-dominated congressional district and put its pieces into four majority-white districts. Questioning witness own report The governors explanation, Kousser said, didnt add up. He pointed to the lack of objections to a white-majority congressional district in place in the 2000s that also stretched from Northeast Florida to Tallahassee. Objecting to a district that sought to empower Black voters while remaining silent about a similarly shaped district that united white voters was evidence, Kousser said, of racial discrimination. If the governor had never gotten involved, Kousser said, there is every reason to believe the Legislature wouldve adopted maps that would have continued to produce districts in which Black voters would have been able to elect candidates of their choice. But Kousser struggled when one of the states lawyers, Mohammad Jazil, questioned him about an expert report he produced, which identified historic and current Black-access districts as districts where a Black candidate had been elected or the Black voting-age population was at least 30 percent. The new 4th Congressional District drawn by DeSantis is solidly Republican but almost 32 percent of the voting-age population is Black. Koussers definition contradicts how courts have defined such districts, which usually describe districts where Black voters can elect their preferred candidates, regardless of the candidates race or specific Black population cutoffs. The expert told the judges that normally political scientists would look at more than just demographics to determine if Black voters could elect their preferred candidates, but 30 percent was just a rough estimate of what districts had elected Blacks in the past. If thats the rough estimate, U.S. Circuit Judge Adalberto Jordan asked Kousser, wouldnt going below a 30% BVAP [Black voting-age population] be an important first step if the governor intended to discriminate against Black voters in North Florida? Kousser said he suspected the governors office wouldve done a deeper analysis to determine if the 4th Congressional District would have allowed Black voters to elect their preferred candidates. Legislature cited its expectations The Legislatures own leadership, however, specifically said the governors map would not allow Black voters to elect any of their preferred candidates in North Florida. Before the Legislature approved the governors map, then-Rep. Tracie Davis (D-Jacksonville) asked, Will either District 4 or 5 perform for Black candidates of choice? No, replied House Redistricting Chairman Tom Leek. That, Kousser said, showed the Legislature knew the new districts would reduce Black voting power. At another point, Kousser also acknowledged that the two Black Democrats who have represented North Florida former U.S. Reps. Corrine Brown (D-Jacksonville) and Al Lawson (D-Tallahassee) both opposed the Fair Districts Amendment that provided voting rights protections in the state Constitution. Those protections barred the state from reducing Black voting power and formed the basis for the separate state court decision that the governor is appealing. Contact Andrew Pantazi of The Tributary at Andrew.Pantazi@jaxtrib.org and @APantazi. This story is published in partnership with The Tributary, a Florida-based nonprofit newsroom. The remains of a missing Colorado wife and mother who vanished during a Mothers Day bike ride near her home more than three years ago have been found, authorities announced Wednesday. Suzanne Morphews remains were found last Friday by agents with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation who were searching an area near the town of Moffat as part of an unrelated investigation, authorities said in a news release. The location is roughly 44 miles south of the city of Salida, in Chaffee County, where the 49-year-old mother of two was reported missing on May 10, 2020. There have been no new arrests in the case and authorities declined to share specific information about the location she was found and the condition of her remains. Chaffee County Sheriff John Spezze said no press conference is planned at this time. Suzanne Morphew was reported missing on May 10, 2020, after going for a bike ride. Suzanne Morphew was reported missing on May 10, 2020, after going for a bike ride. Although locating Suzannes remains is a critical component of this investigation, and for her family, we are left with many more questions than answers, and it would be a disservice to conduct a news conference at this time, he said in a statement released by the CBI. Morphews husband, Barry Morphew, was arrested a year after her disappearance on suspicion of first-degree murder and other charges in connection with her missing person case. Prosecutors accused him of killing her after discovering that she was involved in an extramarital affair. The charges were dropped against him early last year, however, after prosecutors were sanctioned by a judge for violating discovery rules. Barry Morphew in May filed a $15 million federal civil rights lawsuit alleging that he was wrongfully arrested, jailed and prosecuted in his wifes death. The murder charges against him can be refiled by the district attorney in the future, however, as the case was dismissed without prejudice, The Denver Post reported at the time. Barry Morphew was arrested in 2021 in connection with the disappearance of his wife, Suzanne Morphew. Those charges were later dropped. Barry Morphew was arrested in 2021 in connection with the disappearance of his wife, Suzanne Morphew. Those charges were later dropped. An attorney for Morphews husband on Thursday called the news of her remains recovery heartbreaking and said he and the couples two daughters are all struggling with immense shock and grief. They had faith that their wife and mom would walk back into their lives again, said attorney Iris Eytan in a statement shared with HuffPost. Neither the [district attorney] nor the authorities notified Mallory and Macy Morphew about the recovery of their mom. Eytan said the family hopes that whoever is responsible for Suzanne Morphews killing is charged and that authorities will quickly admit their wrongful persecution of Barry, an innocent man. She added that he and his family are not taking questions at this time. Just three months after charges were dropped against Barry Morphew, he made headlines again when he admitted to casting a presidential ballot for Donald Trump under his missing wifes name during the 2020 election. I just thought give him another vote. I figured all these other guys are cheating, he told an FBI agent about his decision, The Denver Post reported at the time, citing an arrest warrant. He pleaded guilty to one count of forgery, a felony, and was sentenced to one year of supervised probation. Related... The remains of a missing Colorado woman with ties to Indiana were identified Wednesday more than three years after her disappearance, according to a news release by the Chaffee County Sheriff's Office. Agents with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation last week found human remains while searching the area of Moffat in Saguache County, a community of roughly 100 people, about 180 miles south of Denver. The remains were positively identified Wednesday as belonging to Suzanne Morphew, 49, by the El Paso County Coroner, a news release stated. Morphew and her husband Barry Morphew moved to Colorado from their hometown of Alexandria, Indiana near Muncie two years before she vanished during a bike ride on Mother's Day in May 2020, writes the Denver Gazette. Her case drew national attention from figures such as Dr. Mehmet Oz and Nancy Grace, and her disappearance was featured on shows like "Profiling Evil." Suzanne Morphew, age 49, went missing on May 10, 2020, during a bike ride in which she never returned home. Her whereabouts remained a mystery until agents with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation discovered her remains on Sept. 22, 2023. In 2021, authorities arrested Barry Morphew in connection to his wife's death. He faced charges including first-degree murder and tampering with physical evidence. The case against Barry Morphew was dismissed in April 2022 after a judge granted a motion by prosecutors noting they hadn't yet found Suzanne Morphew's body. Prosecutors said they wouldn't be able to search for her remains ahead of the trial date due to inclement weather and 5 feet of snow covering the search area, according to Denver NBC affiliate 9News. Court documents: Colorado man suspected in wife's death cast ballot for Donald Trump on her behalf Last week, investigators were searching the Moffat area on an investigation not related to the Morphew disappearance where her remains were discovered, a news release stated. Authorities are withholding the specific location where her remains were found at this time. No new arrests have been made as of Wednesday night in connection to her death. While this case has garnered attention from around the world, it has touched our community and the sheriffs office deeply, said Chaffee County Sheriff John Spezze in a news release. We have never stopped our investigation and will continue to follow all leads in pursuit of justice for Suzanne. This article may update. John Tufts covers evening breaking and trending news for the Indianapolis Star. Send him a news tip at JTufts@Gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Body of Colorado woman Suzanne Morphew from Alexandria, Indiana found A woman whose remains were found over 30 years ago have been positively identified this week. Orange County Sheriff, N.C. officials announced that the remains of a woman found by road crews 33 years ago belonged to 20-year-old Lisa Coburn Kesler of Jackson County, Georgia. Investigators believe someone strangled Kesler one week before her body was dumped along the side of Interstate 40 east. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Although authorities first used the emerging science of DNA to obtain a conviction in a separate criminal case in 1986, forensic applications of DNA was still new technology when Kesler was found dead in 1990. Officials said although investigators were able to prove or identify someones involvement in a crime with DNA, it could not be used to identify an unknown person. Throughout the decades, some of our finest investigators kept plugging away, Orange County Sheriff Charles Blackwood said. When you cant close a case, it gets under your skin. You might set the file aside for a while, but you keep coming back to it, looking to see something you didnt notice before, or hoping information gathered in ensuing cases has relevance to your cold case. Investigators also monitor new techniques and technologies in the field, which is what eventually led to the breakthrough in Ms. Keslers case. Investigator Dylan Hendricks, who took over the case in June 2020, sent a degraded hair fragment to Astrea Forensics for DNA extraction. After they returned a DNA profile, Hendricks asked forensic genealogist Leslie Kaufman to assist with the case. TRENDING STORIES: After they identifyied Kesler, investigators began interviewing people who they believed could be related to her. Essentially, there was a Lisa-shaped hole on a branch of the family tree right where the DNA told us Lisa should be, and no one knew where she was, Hendricks said. Eventually, investigators requested DNA from a suspected maternal relative and the results came back as a match. I am very happy we solved the three-plus-decades-old mystery of this young womans identity, and I hope it provides solace to her family members, Blackwood said. We are grateful to the many investigators, passionate volunteers, and talented professionals who assisted with this effort. I believe we collectively demonstrated the value of dogged determination, which we will now apply to the task of identifying her killer. There is no statute of limitations on murder, and no time clock on justice. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] No further information regarding potential leads in Keslers case has been released. Anyone who has information regarding this case is asked to call Hendricks at 919-245-2951. IN OTHER NEWS: DENVER (KDVR/WXIN) Remains found in Colorado have been positively identified as Suzanne Morphew, a woman who went missing on Mothers Day weekend three years ago, according to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation. Morphew, who is originally from Indiana, was reported missing from her home in Chaffee County, Colorado, on May 10, 2020. She had moved from Indiana to Colorado several years before her disappearance. Morphews husband, Barry Morphew, was originally charged and accused of killing his wife. However, the charges ended up being dropped in 2021 after Barry Morphews lawyers argued there was no physical evidence that Suzanne Morphew was even dead and that there was no evidence of a murder nor any witnesses. Barry Morphew once charged in missing wifes presumed death denies involvement Suzanne Morphews remains were located during an unrelated search on Sept. 22, officials said. Specific information, such as where the remains were found, was being withheld, according to CBI. According to CBI, no arrests have been made since the remains were located. What has happened since Suzanne Morphew disappeared in 2020? While the charges against Barry Morphew were dismissed in 2021, it was noted by the prosecution at the time that the charges could be refiled in the future if Suzanne Morphews remains or further evidence were unearthed. FILE Barry Morphew leaves a Fremont County court building in Canon City, Colo., with his daughters, Macy, left, and Mallory, after charges against him in the presumed death of his wife were dismissed Tuesday, April 19, 2022. (Jerilee Bennett/The Gazette via AP, File) Last May, Suzanne and Barry Morphews daughters broke their silence and said that they believed their father had nothing to do with their mothers disappearance. While Barry Morphews murder charge in relation to his wife was dismissed, Barry Morphew did plead guilty to voter fraud in 2022 after admitting to casting a ballot for then President Donald Trump in the 2020 election. He reportedly used his missing wifes name to vote for Trump because he felt the Republican candidate could use the extra vote, the Associated Press reported. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. A Cleveland County man who made a bomb threat at the U.S. Capitol will not spend any time in prison. The Washington Post reports a judge sentenced Floyd Roseberry to five years of probation. He pleaded guilty in January to threatening to using explosive materials. PREVIOUS STORIES: On Aug. 19, 2021, Roseberry, of Grover, parked his truck in front of the Library of Congress and threatened that he had a bomb inside. Roseberry surrendered to law enforcement following an hourslong standoff that prompted a massive police response and the evacuations of government buildings in the area. Later, police found smokeless black powder in his truck. Court filings show Roseberry was prescribed the wrong drug for his bipolar disorder and was undergoing a psychotic episode at the time. (WATCH PREVIOUS: Grover man pleads guilty to Capitol Hill bomb threat) The Republican candidates faced a Survivor-style elimination ceremony on Wednesday night during the second GOP primary debate. The seven candidates were asked by moderator Dana Perino who should sacrifice themselves in order to defeat the partys current frontrunner Donald Trump but each and every one of them refused to answer. So which one of you onstage tonight should be voted off the island? Ms Perino asked, asking the candidates to each name the individual they most think should drop out of the race. Leading the charge, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis dismissed the question outright. Im not going to do that, with all due respect, were here, were happy to debate, I think that thats disrespectful to my fellow competitors, he said. The other candidates nodded in agreement. Moderator Stuart Varney then asked former New Jersey governor Chris Christie if he had written a name down. Mr Christie answered in the negative, saying he would vote Donald Trump off the island for failing to show up to the debate. No, but Ill certainly tell you, look I think Im the only one on this stage whos been clear about this Id vote Donald Trump off the island right now and the reason Id vote him off the island, every person on this stage has showed the respect for Republican voters, Mr Christie argued. I have respect for every man and woman on this stage, he added. During the course of the debate, entrepreneur and MAGA advocate Vivek Ramaswamy was attacked by several contenders, but none opted to eliminate him from the island. Vivek, put your hand down for a second would you? Ive still got time dude, so chill out, Mr Christie told the 38-year-old at one point. Former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, Florida governor Ron DeSantis, US entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, South Carolina senator Tim Scott and former Vice President Mike Pence arrive on stage prior to the debate (EPA) Meanwhile, former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley told Mr Ramaswamy: Honestly everytime I hear you I feel a little bit dumber from what you say. Mr Ramaswamy said he thought Donald Trump was an excellent president but voters now need a candidate who can take Mr Trumps MAGA movement to the next level. So yes, I will respect Donald Trump and his legacy ... but will unite this country to take the America First agenda to the next level, he said. GOP front-runner Donald Trump has refused to take part in all of the Republican presidential primary debates so far. Instead, during Wednesday nights debate, Mr Trump visited a Michigan auto parts factory, and poked fun at the job candidates taking part in the debate. We are competing with the job candidates, they are all running for a job. They are all job candidates. They will do anything, Secretary of something, they even say VP. Has anyone seen a VP in that group? I dont think so, Mr Trump told the crowd at Drake Enterprises, an automotive manufacturing plant in Clinton Township. He added: They dont have a crowd like we have, thousands of people outside who couldnt get in. The former president currently has a 42.2 point lead in the polls over Mr DeSantis, according to Real Clear Politics. The absence of Donald Trump played a central role in the second Republican primary debate of the 2024 election season, as seven White House hopefuls tried and mostly failed to shake up a race in which the former president remains the clear frontrunner. Two of Trumps rivals attempted to capitalize on his absence by criticizing him for skipping the debate, held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute in Simi Valley, California. DeSantis mocked Trump as missing in action, saying, He should be on this stage tonight. He owes it to you to defend his record. Chris Christie, the former New Jersey governor, suggested Trump was skipping the debates out of fear of facing voters. Addressing Trump in a straight-to-camera diatribe, Christie said, Youre not here tonight because youre afraid of being on this stage and defending your record. Youre ducking these things. Trump skipped the event as he skipped last months debate, and reportedly plans to skip the next and instead held a rally in Michigan, where autoworkers have gone on strike to demand pay increases. A day earlier, Joe Biden joined some of the striking workers on the picket line, providing an odd preview of the likely matchup in the 2024 general election. In the final question of the night, the moderators of the Fox Business and Univision debate forced the candidates to reckon with reality. Fox News host Dana Perino asked, What is your mathematical path, Governor DeSantis, in order to try to beat President Trump, who has a commanding and enduring lead in this race? DeSantis replied, Polls dont elect presidents. Voters elect presidents. And were going to take the case to the people in these early [voting] states. But those voters do not yet appear to be swayed by any of the candidates who appeared onstage on Wednesday night. Even as Trump faces 91 felony charges across four criminal cases, Republican primary candidates have struggled to put a dent in the former presidents significant polling lead. One NBC News poll conducted this month showed Trump has the support of 59% of likely Republican primary voters, giving the former president a 43-point edge over DeSantis. Besides Trump and DeSantis, every Republican primary candidate remains mired in the single digits, the poll found. DeSantis in particular entered the second debate looking for a breakout moment to help dispel mounting doubts over his ability to challenge Trump for the nomination. The Florida governor has seen his polling numbers tumble in recent weeks, with one New Hampshire survey showing him dropping to fifth place in the second voting state. With their primary hopes dwindling, the debate participants shouted over each other in an attempt to be heard, allowing the discussion to devolve into incomprehensible crosstalk. In an apparent effort to get voters attention, some debate participants offered eyebrow-raising suggestions on the issues of gun violence, race and immigration. The former vice-president, Mike Pence, called for the passage of a federal, expedited death penalty for anyone involved in a mass shooting so that they will meet their fate in months, not years. It is unclear how such a policy might prevent mass shootings, especially given that the perpetrators of such crimes often die by suicide or are killed by law enforcement before they are prosecuted. In another surprising moment, South Carolina senator Tim Scott, who is Black, implied that slavery had been more bearable for Black Americans than the Great Society, President Lyndon Johnsons anti-poverty program that birthed social welfare programs like Medicare and Medicaid. Black families survived slavery. We survived poll taxes and literacy tests. We survived discrimination being woven into the laws of our country, Scott said. What was hard to survive was Johnsons Great Society where they decided to take the Black father out of the household to get a check in the mail. Related: Trumps business empire could collapse like falling dominoes after ruling A theme from the first primary debate played out again on Wednesday, as former UN ambassador Nikki Haley sparred with entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy. Criticizing Ramaswamy for joining TikTok despite the apps potential security vulnerabilities, Haley landed the most stinging insult of the night. Honestly, every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber for what you say, Haley told Ramaswamy. But it remained unclear how the debate might help candidates break through in a race that has grown static, as Trumps rivals jockey for a distant second place. With less than four months left before the Iowa caucuses, the pressure is escalating for candidates to quickly prove their mettle in the primary. One Republican candidate, the Miami mayor Francis Suarez, has already dropped out of the race, and others may soon follow suit if they cannot gain momentum in the coming weeks. Asa Hutchinson, the former Arkansas governor who participated in the first primary debate, did not appear on Wednesday because he failed to meet the heightened polling requirements set by the Republican National Committee, but he insisted he would keep fighting for the nomination. In a statement released on Monday, Hutchinson said he would move forward with events planned in early voting states even after he failed to qualify for the debate. I entered this race because it is critically important for a leader within the Republican party to stand up to Donald Trump and call him out on misleading his supporters and the American people, Hutchinson said. I intend to continue doing that. WASHINGTON Republicans on Thursday held their first formal hearing in their impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden , revisiting a dubious claim he corrupted the vice presidency to enrich his family almost a decade ago. Two of the three expert witnesses Republicans called, however, said lawmakers still need more evidence if they want to actually impeach the president. While I believe that an impeachment inquiry is warranted, I do not believe that the evidence currently meets the standard of a high crime and misdemeanor needed for an article of impeachment, George Washington University law professor Jonathan Turley said in written remarks. Turley testified in favor of impeaching Bill Clinton in 1998 and against impeaching Donald Trump in 2019. This year, Republicans have added to an already extensive record examining the question of whether Biden improperly pushed for the firing of a Ukrainian prosecutor in 2015 while his son, Hunter Biden , had a lucrative role on the board of a Ukrainian energy company. Bruce Dubinsky, a forensic accountant, told lawmakers that Republicans had amassed a great deal of evidence involving Hunter Biden and questions about the propriety of his overseas business dealings. However, much more information is still needed in order to be able to answer these questions and make a final determination as to whether or not the Biden family and its associates businesses were involved in any improper or illicit actvities, and whether those activities, if any, were connected to President Joe Biden or then-Vice President Biden, Dubinsky said. Its not clear if House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) will eventually follow through with an actual vote impeaching Biden. Several Republicans have voiced skepticism of both the idea of impeachment and the underlying corruption claim. Thats why McCarthy and other top Republicans have stressed that the inquiry is just that an inquiry. By opening an impeachment inquiry, our investigation is now focused on whether President Biden engaged in impeachable offenses under the U.S. Constitution, House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) said at the top of Thursdays hearing. Citing emails from Hunter Biden and his associates, Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) claimed Biden had urged Ukraine to fire its prosecutor general, Victor Shokin, in 2015 and 2016 in order to benefit Burisma, the company that then employed the vice presidents son. Then-President Donald Trump championed the accusation in 2019 and tried to make the Ukrainian government announce an investigation into the Bidens, including by withholding military aid. Democrats opened an impeachment inquiry against Trump, and State Department witnesses testified at the time that though Hunter Bidens role on Burismas board looked like a conflict of interest, firing Shokin had been the State Departments policy. So far in the Biden inquiry, Republicans have been ignoring the prior testimony. The witnesses at Thursdays hearing werent there to present direct factual evidence about Bidens conduct but to buttress Republican claims that the impeachment inquiry was legitimate. Democrats pointed out that House Republicans have not come up with a plan to fund the government beyond Saturday evening, when the federal government will cease nonessential operations without congressional approval of a funding bill. Were 62 hours away from shutting down the government of the United States of America and Republicans are launching an impeachment drive based on a long-debunked and discredited lie, said Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), the Oversight Committees top Democrat. Raskin forced the committee to vote on a motion to subpoena Rudy Giuliani and Lev Parnas, who sought incriminating information about the Bidens in Ukraine on Trumps behalf. I spent over a year and a half in Ukraine trying to get this information on behalf of Trump, and we could never get it because it was obviously not true, Parnas told HuffPost earlier this year. Republicans voted Raskins motion down. Though they may not want to hear from Parnas or Giuliani, Republicans nevertheless are adding to the evidentiary record. This week, they released a huge cache of documents relating to an IRS investigation into Hunter Bidens failure to pay taxes on his overseas income, an investigation that IRS employees have said was stifled by the Justice Department. Also this week, the House Oversight Committee revealed that Biden received two previously unknown bank wires from Chinese nationals in 2019. The wires seem to contradict a claim by George Mesires, Bidens lawyer at the time, that Biden did not receive any money from a company he co-founded with a Chinese private equity firm. The wires also are at odds with Joe Bidens claim in a 2020 debate that his son hadnt received any money from China. Abbe Lowell, Hunter Bidens current lawyer, said in a statement this week that the money was a loan, not a payment. But only one of the wires, for $10,000, was marked as a loan, according to a record of the transfer viewed by HuffPost. The other wire, for $250,000, was labeled as a personal investment. Lowell did not respond to a request for further clarification. Comer said Thursday that Biden lied to the American people about his family making money in China. The Justice Department has been investigating Hunter Biden for years. This month he was charged with illegally owning a firearm in 2018, at a time when he has said he was addicted to crack cocaine. He will also likely face charges for failing to pay taxes on his overseas income. Democrats have conceded that the presidents son broke the law, and acknowledged that he traded on his familys name. But theyve insisted his wrongdoing isnt his fathers fault. Turley said influence peddling by a politicians family member amounts to a form of corruption, even if there isnt a direct payment to the politician himself. The question is, Did the president know, did he encourage this type of corruption? Turley said. You have to begin with a recognition that what Hunter Biden and his associates were doing was corrupt. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and French President Emmanuel Macron had a phone call on Wednesday where they discussed recent woes in the West Philippine Sea, among others, Malacanang said. According to a statement from the Palace on Thursday, Marcos kept his stance on the maritime row, saying the national government will continue "to maintain the peace, to maintain the stability, keep the shipping lanes open and airways open" in the contested waterways. The president thanked France for supporting the country's fight for its territory, as well as for sending vessels for patrols. "But may I thank France for all the support that you have given us in terms of our shared values, in terms of following the international law, especially UNCLOS (UN Convention on the Law of the Sea) and it has been of great help the messages of support and even when you sent French vessels to come and patrol. So I have to thank you, Mr. President, and France," Marcos said. The recent issues in the disputed waterssuch as the water cannon incident, destroyed reefs, and illegal installation of a floating barrierall involved China, which claims almost the entire South China Sea. Aside from this, Macron also shared his plan to deploy a group of French ministers to the Philippines by the latter part of 2023. The Philippine president expects to resume bilateral talks with France upon their arrival. "We can work on what was just held last June, the 10th Philippine-France Joint Economic Committee Meeting. And many of the businessmen from France were able to speak to our ministers and some of the local businessmen as well," Marcos told his French counterpart. "And so if your ministers will come to visit the Philippines then that will be the next step from that beginning," he added. Marcos also invited Macron to visit the country. By Makini Brice and Andy Sullivan WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Republicans leading an impeachment inquiry of President Joe Biden detailed foreign payments to members of his family in their first hearing on Thursday, but did not provide evidence that the Democratic president had personally benefited. The initial impeachment hearing by the U.S. House of Representatives Oversight Committee served as a review of evidence that Republicans have gathered so far about foreign business ventures by Biden's troubled son Hunter Biden , 53, which they say shows that Biden's family members were selling access. "The American people demand accountability for this culture of corruption," House Oversight Committee chair James Comer said. He said Biden has lied about family members' business dealings and had not walled them off from his official duties. Democrats and several independent witnesses said there was no proof that Biden had received any of those payments, or otherwise engaged in improper behavior while he served as vice president between 2009 and 2017. The White House has denied wrongdoing and dismissed the probe as politically motivated. "If Republicans had a smoking gun or even a dripping water pistol they would be presenting it today. But they've got nothing," said Jamie Raskin, the panel's top Democrat. Biden is campaigning for reelection in what will be a likely rematch with Republican Donald Trump, who is preparing for four upcoming criminal trials on a range of charges, from trying to overthrow his 2020 election defeat to mishandling classified documents are leaving office. Trump, who was impeached twice during his four years in office, and some of his hardline Republican allies have for months called for a Biden impeachment. Democrats prominently displayed a clock counting down the minutes until midnight Saturday, when the U.S. government will enter its fourth partial shutdown in a decade if Congress fails to pass legislation to fund federal agencies. George Washington University professor Jonathan Turley and forensic accountant Bruce Dubinsky said the panel had enough evidence to open an impeachment inquiry but did not have enough evidence to justify impeachment charges. Another law professor, Michael Gerhardt of the University of North Carolina, said he had not heard credible evidence to justify the probe and warned the panel that it was being driven by partisan concerns. A fourth witness, former Justice Department official Eileen O'Connor, said she thought the department had soft-pedaled a criminal investigation of Hunter Biden, who now faces gun charges after years of struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. Republicans allege Biden and his family profited from policies he pursued as vice president during former President Barack Obama's administration between 2009 and 2017. Separately, they also allege the Justice Department interfered with the criminal investigation of Hunter Biden. On Thursday, House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer said that he had issued subpoenas for bank records belonging to Hunter Biden and the president's brother, Frank Biden, as part of an investigation into the family's financial dealings. UNCLEAR PROSPECTS It is unclear if House Republicans, who have a narrow 221-212 majority, would have the votes at the end of the inquiry to support actual impeachment. But even if that vote succeeded, it is highly unlikely that the Senate, where Democrats hold a 51-49 majority, would vote to remove Biden from office. At the center of the investigation are allegations that Biden, as vice president, pressured Ukraine to fire a top prosecutor to shield Burisma, a company for which Hunter Biden was on the board of directors. Numerous U.S. and foreign officials have said Biden was carrying out official policy to fight corruption in Ukraine. Democrats unsuccessfully pressed the panel to subpoena former New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, who had sought to uncover evidence of Biden wrongdoing in Ukraine, as well as Lev Parnas, a former associate who has denounced Giuliani's effort. House Republicans have said they plan to seek personal and business bank records for Hunter Biden and James Biden, the president's brother. Comer cited payment records from Chinese nationals to Hunter in 2019, listing Joe Biden's home address in Delaware as the beneficiary address. Republicans have not provided evidence that the elder Biden received the money. "Once again Rep. Comer peddles lies to support a premise some wrongdoing by Hunter Biden or his family that evaporates in thin air the moment facts come out," said Hunter Biden's attorney, Abbe Lowell, in a statement on Thursday. Lowell said the money in question was a loan and that the address listed was the address on Hunter Biden's driver's license at the time. The White House said Republicans should focus on reaching a deal to keep the government open on Oct. 1, the start of the new fiscal year. "The consequences for the American people will be very damaging," the White House said at the hearing's outset. "Nothing can distract from that." (Reporting by Makini Brice and Andy Sullivan; additional reporting by Dan Whitcomb; Editing by Scott Malone, Alistair Bell and Cynthia Osterman) Republican presidential candidates (L-R), former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy and U.S. Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) participate in the FOX Business Republican Primary Debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library on September 27, 2023 in Simi Valley, California. Republican presidential candidates (L-R), former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis , Vivek Ramaswamy and U.S. Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) participate in the FOX Business Republican Primary Debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library on September 27, 2023 in Simi Valley, California. Almost exactly four years ago, one of Californias increasingly destructive wildfires caused roughly $500,000 in damage to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. But GOP candidates gathered there for the second 2024 presidential primary debate almost uniformly rejected the idea that the planets steadily rising temperature was a problem at all. Its not climate change we need to worry about, said North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum . Its the Biden climate policies. After dodging surprisingly pointed questions about climate change at the first debate Fox News hosted last month, the contenders hoping to take on President Joe Biden next November battled each other over who would do most to ramp up production of the fossil fuels destabilizing the planets weather systems. Drill, baby, drill, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy said, repeating a campaign slogan cribbed from former reality TV star and Alaska Gov. Sarah Palins failed 2008 vice presidential campaign (but coined by former Maryland Lieutenant Gov. Michael Steele). While the right-wing biotech executive expressed support for at least one source of zero-carbon energy, vowing to embrace the nuclear power that already provides one-fifth of the countrys electricity, South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott suggested only fossil fuels mattered. Were the richest country if you combine coal, gas and oil, Scott said. Like former President Barack Obamabefore him, former Vice President Mike Pence claimed responsibility for the United States becoming a major exporter of gas and oil. Pence accused Biden, who has overseen a surge of U.S. fuel sales overseas, of stifling that growth. One of the signature accomplishments of our administration was in just a few short years we achieved energy independence, Pence said. But on day one, Joe Biden declared a war on energy. Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley said the U.S. needs to partner with producers and make sure we have their back not specifying which energy companies she meant in a country with vast solar, wind, nuclear, hydroelectric and fossil fuel resources. In one of the most gripping moments for any debate over energy, Haley then lit into Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, the highest-polling candidate on a stage without Donald Trump , for directing his state regulators to ban hydraulic fracturing, the drilling technique known as fracking. Ron DeSantis is against fracking, Haley said. Hes against drilling. He always talks about what happens on day one. You better watch out because what happens on day two is where you get in trouble. Just two days into his first term in 2019, DeSantis issued an executive order instructing the Department of Environmental Protection to phase down all fracking in Florida, according to Politifact. While DeSantis won the governors seat just months earlier by a margin of less than 1% against his Democratic opponent, nearly 70% of Florida voters in the same election approved a ballot measure to amend the state constitution to ban drilling for exploration or extraction of oil or natural gas on lands beneath all state waters which have not been alienated and that lie between the mean high water line and the outermost boundaries of the states territorial seas. The attack unraveled somewhat when Haley claimed DeSantis signed the order before the election that brought the former congressman to Tallahassee. You banned it before they voted, Haley said. Thats not true, DeSantis said. He pointed to a policy platform he issued this month calling for major increases in fossil fuel production. Were going to choose Midland over Moscow, were going to choose the Marcellus over the mullahs, and were going to choose the Bakken over Beijing, DeSantis added, referring to major oil- and gas-producing regions of Texas, Pennsylvania and North Dakota, respectively. It seemed to set up a moment for Burgum, the lowest-polling candidate, whose relatively moderate record in his state has made it difficult to stand out in a race dominated by Trump. Earlier in the debate, when asked about the ongoing auto union strike, he launched into a diatribe insisting that electric vehicles were the real cause of the workers distress, in part because Chinese-produced rare earth minerals used in car batteries are ecologically destructive. But on the energy question, he simply noted that his state, a major oil producer, was already doing it. Related... Republicans in the US House of Representatives have decided to strip US$300 million of financial aid for Ukraine from the defence spending bill and consider these funds in a separate bill. Source: European Pravda with reference to The Hill Details: The House Rules Committee convened a last-minute meeting to remove the funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative which is intended for training Ukrainian soldiers and purchasing weapons from the Department of Defense appropriations bill. US$300 million financial aid for Ukraine will be considered in a standalone bill. Tom Cole, House Rules Committee Chairman, explained this is crucial for approving the defence budget. The Republicans took this step despite the fact that their leader in the House of Representatives, Speaker Kevin McCarthy, promised last week not to strip funds for Ukraine from the defence budget project. And it happened despite the fact that the lower chamber of Congress had previously rejected an amendment proposed by Republican Andy Biggs which provided for this step. Though the defence appropriations bill may be able to pass the House of Representatives without the financing for Ukraine, which is opposed by far-right Republicans, it must still be approved by the Senate and signed by President Joe Biden. The US$300 million in question is not related to the additional US$24 billion financial aid for Ukraine and associated spending which the White House adopted in August, and which is likewise opposed by far-right Republicans. Against this backdrop, the US Senate implemented an alternative short-term budget resolution project which, among other things, provided for over US$6.1 billion of additional aid for Ukraine, specifically US$4.5 billion for defence spending and over US$1.6 billion for economic support. But Kevin McCarthy has already stated that there will be no votes in favour of the Senates budget proposal among members of the 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! WASHINGTONHouse Republicans held their first marathon impeachment inquiry hearing Thursday, fueled by allegations President Joe Biden has financially benefited from his family's foreign business dealings. GOP lawmakers have long targeted Hunter Biden's work overseas. But while investigators have produced evidence revealing the president's son and his associates made millions from the affairs, they have yet to share concrete evidence showing the president personally benefited from those dealings. During the hearing, Republicans sought to link the president to his family finances and explain why a formal impeachment inquiry provides the right resources for lawmakers investigating. But Democrats accused their colleagues across the aisle of simply not having the evidence to move forward. And while the four witnesses called to the hearing didn't say Republicans should hit the brakes on an impeachment inquiry, they did caution that they didn't see reason to remove Biden from office. Here's what you need to know. Republican and Democratic leaders make their last pitch Rep. James Comer, R-Ky, and Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., made their final arguments to Americans across the country at the end of their first impeachment inquiry hearing. Comer defended House Republicans' efforts, saying lawmakers need additional time and resources for their investigation. He vowed to subpoena bank records from Hunter Biden and James Biden, Joe Biden's brother, on Thursday. The Republican lawmaker also said his Democratic colleagues "have used this hearing to talk about impeachment, not an inquiry, but actual articles of impeachment. We aren't talking about impeachment today, and they know that," Comer said. But Raskin told Republicans many of their arguments targeting Joe Biden and Hunter Biden rely on hypotheticals. "This hearing has been dominated by the word 'if,' as many people have said. It's been filled with hypotheticals, and I'm a law professor, so I'm not averse to them," Raskin said. "But you don't impeach a president based on hypotheticals and based on obsolete conspiracy theories." Marina Pitofsky White House hits Joe Biden impeachment hearing White House spokesperson Sharon Yang blasted the hearing on Thursday, saying Republicans wasted hours peddling debunked lies as their own witnesses acknowledged there wasn't evidence for the baseless stunt. This flop was a failed effort to distract from their own chaos and inability to govern that is careening the country towards an unnecessary government shutdown that will hurt American families, Yang said. The hearing also comes as lawmakers have until Sept. 30 to reach a compromise to avoid a government shutdown. Congressional Republicans have also made clear that this fact-free stunt will continue even if the government shuts down because they believe these partisan political attacks are more important than ensuring our troops get paid, funding efforts to fight fentanyl trafficking, making sure kids and infants have access to food assistance, and more," Yang said. Bart Jansen Kate Porter takes aim at Kevin McCarthy over lack of House impeachment vote One issue Democrats have repeatedly raised during the first impeachment inquiry hearing into Joe Biden is the lack of a formal vote on the proceedings. When House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., said earlier this month that Republicans would launch the impeachment inquiry, his announcement meant the lower chamber was skipping a broader vote to proceed. Rep. Katie Porter, D-Calif., on Thursday hit back over the move. She showed a board of a figure criticizing impeachment inquiries that start without what's known as a "floor vote." After asking three of the witnesses who made the statement, she revealed in was McCarthy in 2019. Marina Pitofsky Marjorie Taylor Greene, Jamie Raskin spar over photos As Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., accused Hunter Biden, Joe Biden's son, of sex trafficking during the hearing, Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., asked Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., chair of the House Oversight Committee, to instruct Greene "to not introduce any pornography today." "A bathing suit is not pornography Mr. Raskin," Greene responded, while holding a board showing an image of a woman's body. The moment came after Hunter Bidens lawyers filed an ethics complaint in the House of Representatives earlier this year against Greene after she displayed sexually explicit pictures of him during a hearing. Marina Pitofsky 'I would be drunk by now': Democratic lawmaker calls out Republican evidence Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, criticized Republican lawmakers during the hearing over the gap in evidence appearing to point towards Joe Biden, not his son, Hunter Biden. Crockett asked Michael Gerhardt, a law professor at the University of North Carolina, if the witness had heard GOP officials say the word "if" during the hearing. Gerhardt replied that he had been keeping count, and Republican lawmakers and witnesses had used the word dozens of times during the proceedings. "Honestly, if they would continue to say 'if' or 'Hunter' and we were playing a drinking game, I would be drunk by now," Crockett joked. "I promise you. They have not talked about the subject of this, which would be the president." Marina Pitofsky Democrats criticize Republicans for focusing on impeachment instead of government shutdown Rep. Summer Lee, D-Penn., shifted the hearing's focus from the impeachment inquiry to the looming government shutdown, criticizing her GOP colleagues for holding the proceedings when Congress has made little progress towards avoiding the shutdown. The Republicans on this committee are betting that well spend this hearing engaging in partisan bickering over their favorite buzzwords rather than talking about how their MAGA shutdown will affect all of our constituents, Lee said, adding that Hunter Biden is already being handled by the proper authorities. Hunter Biden earlier this month was indicted on federal gun charges less than two months after a plea agreement fell apart over tax and gun charges. Ken Tran Democratic lawmaker thanks Donald Trump for ordering impeachment inquiry hearing Rep. Melanie Stansbury, D-N.M., lambasted House Republicans over the impeachment inquiry hearing on Thursday and insinuated that GOP lawmakers were deferring to former President Donald Trumps demands for congressional Republicans to impeach Biden. I want to say thank you to Mr. Donald Trump for calling this hearing today, Stansbury said, also attacking Republicans for holding the hearing as a government shutdown is just two days away, saying they have an inability to govern. Ken Tran Comer defends inquiry, accuses Democrats of false narrative on impeachment As Democrats lash out against the impeachment inquiry, Republican Rep. James Comer defended the hearing and the broader investigation process, apologizing to the witnesses and accusing Democrats of suggesting Republicans have already decided on impeaching Joe Biden. The title of this hearing is an impeachment inquiry, Comer said, saying the inquiry status is needed for GOP lawmakers to have stronger authority to investigate the White House, which they say has been uncooperative with their probe. We have led this investigation and now we need the impeachment inquiry status as we move forward to get the information we have been obstructed by this administration and by this family, Comer said. And thats what the purpose of this hearing is. Dont create another false narrative. Ken Tran Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez: Impeachment inquiry is wasting our time Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., chastised House Republicans for holding the impeachment inquiry hearing at all and said the meeting was wasting our time. The progressive New York Democrat questioned each of the four witnesses and asked if they had presented first-hand witness accounts indicating President Joe Biden committed a high crime or misdemeanor. All of them said they have not. The direct testimony of the four individual witnesses here today are the bona-fide words that this committee must use in order to proceed or substantiate an investigation, Ocasio-Cortez said, arguing Republicans had no standing to open the inquiry. This is an embarrassment. An embarrassment to the time and people of this country, she added. Ken Tran Republicans draw comparison between Joe Biden and Bob Menendez corruption charges Some House Republicans on Thursday tried to paint a picture of broad corruption among Democratic lawmakers, referencing New Jersey Sen. Bob Menendez's recent federal corruption charges. Menendez, accused of accepting bribes in exchange for using his official role as head of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has pleaded not guilty to the the allegations. But some Republicans on Thursday tried to connect the Democratic leaders. "What bothers me a little is I'm beginning to think Americans are beginning to think this behavior by the Biden family is normal. I'm kind of afraid they're they're going to say, 'well, President Biden is a politician," Rep. Glenn Grothman, R-Wis., said during the hearing. "They're just going to say this is how it works. I don't think it's the way it works," he added. Marina Pitofsky Democrats try to subpoena Rudy Giuliani, again Democrats put forward another motion to subpoena former President Donald Trump's former attorney, Rudy Giuliani, forcing the committee to take a recorded vote. Republicans defeated the motion again, but lawmakers who left the room had to return to cast their vote, delaying hearing proceedings. This committee is afraid to call Rudy Giuliani to testify, Rep. Kweisi Mfume, D-Md., proclaimed, holding a piece of paper that read Wheres Rudy? Id like to know why we cant bring him before this committee like we brought these witnesses and everybody else, he continued. Ken Tran Democrats and Republicans appear largely checked out of high-profile hearing For all the attention the high-profile hearing has been generating as House Republicans seek to take their investigations to the next step, members in the hearing room have largely checked out as the meeting has continued. Two hours since the hearing began, only a handful of lawmakers have been paying close attention to the questions members have been posing to witnesses, while others have either been on their cell phones or walking in and out of the room. Ken Tran Distract and deflect: Democrat accuses GOP of avoiding Donald Trumps legal troubles Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Va., accused Republicans of using an impeachment inquiry to distract and deflect from former President Donald Trumps myriad legal troubles, which includes four criminal indictments. I think this hearing is all about, look over here, not over there,' Connolly said. Somebody has been indicted in four different locales, on four different sets of concerns with what I think, 81, 91, actual counts? And has been found guilty in two civil proceedings involving sexual behavior and one on actual corporate fraudulent activity. And we dont want to talk about any of that, he continued, referring to Trumps legal challenges. A jury earlier this year found Trump liable for sexually abusing advice columnist E. Jean Carroll in the 1990s, and a judge ruled earlier this week that Trump committed fraud while building his real estate empire. Ken Tran Who is Devon Archer? Several lawmakers mentioned a man named Devon Archer during the hearing on Thursday as they discussed Hunter Biden's business dealings. That's because Archer is Hunter Biden's former business associate. Earlier this year, he told lawmakers during testimony that Hunter Biden put Joe Biden on the phone with clients before his father was elected to the White House. But Archer still argued that Joe Biden wasn't involved in their financial dealings, despite the contacts. Sudiksha Kochi Michael Gerhardt: Impeachment evidence is not sufficient for Republicans to accuse Joe Biden Democrats arguing against the impeachment inquiry are saying that Joe Biden was not directly involved in Hunter Bidens business affairs. During the Thursday hearing, Rep. Jamie Raskin questioned Michael Gerhardt, a law professor at the University of North Carolina, on whether the inquiry had ground at all. The principle of American law is that people are responsible for their own conduct and not the conduct of their own children, Raskin noted. The inquirys basis, Gerhardt said is inconsistent with the American legal system adding that the evidence is not sufficient for Republicans to accuse the president of benefitting from his sons actions. Rep. Jim Jordan however, hit back, arguing that a benefit to your family can be a benefit to you and accusing the White House of misleading investigators and providing false statements. -- Ken Tran Kevin McCarthy calls impeachment inquiry 'logical next stop' House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., announced earlier this month that the House would open the formal impeachment inquiry against Joe Biden, escalating a Republican investigation that started in January when the GOP took majority control of the lower chamber. "Today I am directing our House committee to open a formal impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden," McCarthy said at the time. "This logical next stop will give our committees the full power to gather all the facts and answers for the American public." McCarthy has previously argued an impeachment inquiry into Biden would give House Republicans more oversight authority to investigate the president, though some moderate Republican lawmakers balked at rushing into the process Ken Tran Witness Bruce Dubinsky says there is smoke but more evidence is still needed Bruce Dubinsky, a forensic accountant testifying for House Republicans, agreed with his fellow witness, Jonathan Turley, during the Thursday hearing. He told lawmakers that decisive evidence has yet to show Joe Biden financially benefited from Hunter Bidens business dealings. As the age-old adage goes, when theres smoke, theres fire, Dubinsky said. The critical question facing the American people today is whether behind the smokescreen clouding the Biden family and associates businesses was there, or is there a fire? Dubinsky, similar to Turley, noted that more evidence is still needed to determine whether Biden committed crimes worthy of impeachment. Ken Tran Bruce Dubinsky, Eileen OConnor, Jonathan Turley: Who are the witnesses in the impeachment inquiry hearing? The hearing is not expected to present new evidence, but it will offer up House Republicans arguments for why they are proceeding with an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden and provide an overview of what GOP investigators have uncovered thus far. House Republicans plan to have three witnesses testify to explain the basis of the inquiry and what lawmakers have found regarding the foreign business dealings of Hunter Biden, Joe Bidens son: Bruce Dubinsky, a forensic accountant Eileen OConnor, former assistant attorney general for the Justice Departments tax division Jonathan Turley, a constitutional law professor at George Washington University House Democrats have tapped Michael Gerhardt, a law professor at the University of North Carolina, to testify against the inquiry and argue House Republicans have yet to offer up substantial evidence to open an impeachment inquiry. Ken Tran Will Joe Biden's impeachment inquiry fuel a government shutdown? Lawmakers are staring down a Sept. 30 deadline to reach a compromise to avoid a government shutdown. But the impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden adds another task for Congress to juggle as it tries to avoid a catastrophic shutdown. House Republicans have argued that the impeachment inquiry is unrelated to funding the government and their push for long coveted spending cuts. There are two different things. We're adults. We should be able to walk and chew gum at the same time, Florida Rep. Byron Donalds, a member of the Freedom Caucus, previously told USA TODAY. But that's not an argument Democrats, including Joe Biden, are buying. The president said at a Democratic fundraiser earlier this month that "The best I can tell, they want to impeach me because they want to shut down the government. Ken Tran and Michael Collins Jonathan Turley, House GOPs opening witness, says evidence doesnt support impeachment Jonathan Turley, a constitutional law professor at George Washington University and House Republicans opening witness, said the evidence GOP lawmakers have uncovered so far do not warrant articles of impeachment against Biden. But he added that Republicans' inquiry still had merit. The current evidence doesnt support articles of impeachment," Turley said, noting that he thought House Republicans still had circumstantial evidence suggesting Biden could have benefitted from his sons foreign affairs, justifying the impeachment inquiry. Ken Tran What are the chances of Biden getting impeached and convicted? Currently there aren't enough votes in the House to impeach Biden, according to David Bateman, a professor of policy and government at Cornell University. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., has given conservative Republicans "a concession they've been demanding since before Biden was president," by clearing the way for the impeachment inquiry hearings, Bateman previously told USA TODAY. There are likely several Republican House members who represent more moderate districts and wouldn't vote for impeachment at this point, Marc Scholl, a former prosecutor in New York and counsel to the firm Lewis Baach Kaufmann & Middlemiss, previously told USA TODAY. And even if the House approved charges , it's not likely that two-thirds of the Senate, controlled by Democrats, would convict Biden. Jamie Raskin pushes to subpoena Rudy Giuliani and Lev Parnas, causing brief confusion Rep. Jamie Raskin moved to subpoena Trumps former personal attorney, Rudy Giuliani, and an associate of Giuliani, Lev Parnas, to testify in the hearing on Hunter Bidens business dealings, causing a brief moment of confusion in the hearing room. Rep. James Comer attempted to table the motion by voice vote and move on with the hearing, but Raskin demanded a recorded vote, forcing all members in the room to vote on the subpoena. All Democrats voted against the move to table the procedural step with Republicans voting to dismiss Raskins move. Ken Tran Top Democrat knocks impeachment push: No smoking gun, no gun, no smoke Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, delivered Democrats opening rebuttal against House Republicans accusations, pointing out the infighting that has embroiled House Republicans as they work to avert a shutdown. These are Republicans talking about Republicans. This isnt partisan warfare, Raskin said, flanked by staffers holding up signs reading out criticisms moderate GOP lawmakers have levied at their hard-right colleagues. He also displayed a clock counting down until the impending government shutdown while he spoke. Raskin, echoing other Democratic sentiments, took aim at the lack of evidence directly tying the president to his sons business dealings. "Back in the reality-based world, the majority sits completely empty-handed with no evidence of any presidential wrongdoing, no smoking gun, no gun, no smoke, Raskin added. They got nothing on Joe Biden. Ken Tran White House calls out impeachment inquiry as government shutdown looms As House Republicans pursue their first impeachment inquiry hearing into Biden amid a looming government shutdown on Sunday, the White House issued a warning about the state of the country. There are 61 hours and 55 minutes until the government shuts down because of extreme House Republicans chaos and inability to govern, the statement said. "The consequences for the American people will be very damaging, from lost jobs, to troops working without pay, to jeopardizing important efforts to fight fentanyl, deliver disaster relief, provide food assistance, and more. Nothing can distract from that," it added. Sudiksha Kochi James Comer kicks off impeachment inquiry hearing Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., chair of the House Oversight Committee, kicked off House Republicans first impeachment inquiry hearing into President Joe Biden. The leader accused Biden of being involved in his sons foreign affairs and selling the Biden brand for millions of dollars. What were the Bidens selling to make all this money? Comer said. Joe Biden himself. Ken Tran What is an impeachment inquiry? How can a president be removed from office? First, the whole House of Representatives, not just one committee, has to approve articles of impeachment, or charges, against the president. Next, the Senate would hold an impeachment trial. If the upper chamber finds the president guilty, they would be removed from office and can be barred from holding elected office again. Three American presidents have been impeached in the House, but no leaders have been found guilty in the Senate. Impeachment live stream: Here's how to watch As the House Oversight Committee holds the first hearing into President Joe Biden on Thursday, you can stream the proceedings here. Marina Pitofsky Is Biden being impeached? No, the inquiry launched by House Republicans is an investigation into the president over allegations that he benefitted from his familys foreign business dealings. It doesnt mean he has been formally charged, or that hell be removed from office. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., has called the formal impeachment inquiry a "logical next step" for House Republicans, even though Republicans were already looking into the president and his familys finances. After Republicans wrap up their investigation, which could take anywhere from a few months to over a year, the House Judiciary Committee would have the option to draft formal articles of impeachment against the president. Those articles are the vehicle for an impeachment trial, which would be how lawmakers could potentially remove Biden from office. Savannah Kuchar and Marina Pitofsky President Joe Biden and his son, Hunter Biden, arrive at Fort McNair in Washington, D.C., on June 25, 2023. Which presidents have been impeached? Andrew Johnson, Bill Clinton and Donald Trump Three presidents have been impeached by the House of Representatives: Andrew Johnson, Bill Clinton and Donald Trump. Johnson was impeached in 1868 after he fired Secretary of War Edwin Stanton, an ally of the so-called "radical Republicans" in Congress who opposed Johnson's Reconstruction policies. Clinton was impeached in 1998 for perjury before a federal grand jury and obstructing justice, revolving around evidence that Clinton had an affair with Monica Lewinsky, a White House intern at the time, and tried to cover it up. Trump was impeached twice. In 2019, he was impeached after he allegedly withheld funds to Ukraine in an attempt to pressure Ukrainian officials to investigate Biden, his political rival. Trump was impeached again in 2021 for his alleged incitement of the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection. Sudiksha Kochi House GOP investigators say an inquiry is 'just that, an inquiry' Democrats in Congress and the White House have assailed House Republicans for elevating their ongoing investigations to the level of an impeachment inquiry, arguing GOP lawmakers lack the evidence to begin an inquiry. Republican lawmakers involved in the process say otherwise, claiming the inquiry will give investigators stronger authority to uncover evidence that President Joe Biden was involved in his son Hunter Bidens overseas business dealings. In a memo to lawmakers in the committees handling the impeachment inquiry, Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., chair of the Oversight committee, along with Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio., chair of the Judiciary Committee and Rep. Jason Smith, R-Mo., chair of the Ways and Means Committee, explained to members the inquiry is just that, an inquiry. This impeachment inquiry will enable the committees to gather information necessary to assess whether President Biden has engaged in impeachable conduct, the memo reads. The decision to begin this inquiry does not mean that the committees have reached a conclusion on this question. Ken Tran This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Impeachment hearing recap: Witnesses talk of Joe, Hunter Biden The opening of a humanitarian corridor by Ukraine to bypass Russia's de facto blockade is a move in the right direction, but should not replace a larger deal to resume shipping through the Black Sea, the top United Nations trade chief said in comments to Reuters. After Russia unilaterally backed out of the Black Sea Grain Initiative in July 2023, the shipment of grain through the Black Sea effectively stopped until Ukraine announced the opening of a temporary corridor on Aug. 10. The corridor was primarily meant to allow passage for ships stuck in the Ukrainian ports of Chornomorsk, Odesa, and Pivdennyi since the start of the full-scale invasion. Explicitly a temporary measure, and one that "is purely a humanitarian mission," according to Oleh Chalyk, a spokesperson for Ukraine's Navy, the corridor was not designed to fully replace the larger grain deal. The route is not without risk to those who use it. The Russian Defense Ministry has said that all vessels sailing to Ukrainian ports would be considered "potential carriers of military cargo" and, therefore, legitimate targets. Rebeca Grynspan, who leads the U.N. implementation of the grain deal with Russia, told Reuters that "the only thing that will take the risk away and stabilize ... the situation is an agreement that will be backed by all partners." The route sticks close to the Bulgarian and Romanian coast, and so far, five ships that were stuck in Ukraine's Black Sea ports have been evacuated and another two carrying Ukrainian grain have entered and left. On Sept. 19, the Palau-flagged Resilient Africa became the first ship to enter and leave a Black Sea port with Ukrainian grain since the corridor was announced. A second vessel carrying 18,000 tons of grain to Egypt also left Ukraine's Chornomorsk port on Sept. 22. The original grain deal, brokered by Turkey and the UN in July 2022, had been essential in mitigating a global surge in food prices partially caused by Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine by allowing Ukraine to export its agricultural products via the Black Sea despite the ongoing invasion. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Sept. 23 that renewing the grain deal was not off the table, but rejected recent proposals by U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. In contrast, Grynspan stressed that the U.N. negotiating team is "convinced that we put forward real solutions to the issues that Russia has raised." Read also: This Week in Ukraine Ep. 17 Black Sea grain deal is dead. What can Ukraine do? Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. BRENTWOOD, Tenn. (WKRN) The Brentwood Police Department is offering a $2,000 reward for information regarding a shooting that happened Saturday, Sept. 9 at a Brentwood hotel. Police said just after 11 p.m. that night, a man wearing a black hooded sweatshirt approached a vehicle at Homewood Suites, located in the 5100 block of Peter Taylor Park Drive. The suspect then reportedly shot at the man sitting in the vehicle, hitting him in the right leg. Authorities noticing increase in checks being stolen out of mailboxes Investigators have not yet determined a motive for the shooting. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers of Williamson County at 615-794-4000 or to submit an anonymous tip by clicking here. If you prefer to speak with a detective, call the Brentwood Police Department at 615-371-0160. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Having done a musical residency in Las Vegas, 2 Chainz is back for culinary residency with Pepsi Dig In to amplify Black-owned restaurants. In the neon-lit heart of Las Vegas, where the citys entertainment prowess knows no bounds, 2 Chainz is retaking center stage in a new way. Instead of performing his chart-topping hits, the Atlanta rapper is turning up the heat in the kitchen. 2 Chainz x Pepsi Dig In Restaurant Royalty Residency (Photo courtesy of Pepsi) This fall, the Grammy-Award-winning rapper is trading clever verses for recipes as he joins Pepsi Dig Ins culinary residency program. Starting Sept. 30, fans visiting MGMs Resorts Mandalay Bay and Luxor will be able to explore a selection of exclusive dishes from six Black-owned restaurants from around the country, including 2 Chainzs Esco Restaurant & Tapas. I already had a residency in Vegas performance. So, to actually have one of my businesses making their rounds. I think its just a blessing, man, 2 Chainz told theGrio. Ive been an owner of a restaurant for going on seven years, and Lord knows thats a lot. In the Black restaurant field, there are so many ups and downs, trials and tribulations. Its really a roller coaster. So, I can honestly say its a blessing to be acknowledged, along with the other five restaurants. Celebrating its second year, the Restaurant Royalty Residency program is part of Pepsis Dig In initiative designed to drive access, business growth, and awareness to Black-owned restaurants. Pepsi Dig In serves a dual purpose of introducing diners to new Black-owned establishments and offering essential resources, mentorship, and training to Black restaurant owners with the support of PepsiCo. The Las Vegas residency was created in conjunction with MGM Resorts pledge to enhance inclusivity and cultivate a diverse environment for its employees, guests, community collaborators, and stakeholders. Las Vegas provides a valuable culinary stage and unparalleled business opportunity for restaurateurs. In partnership with MGM Resorts International, the Pepsi Dig In Restaurant Royalty Residency Program is putting Black-owned restaurants and chefs in front of foodies from around the world, said Scott Finlow, CMO of PepsiCo Global Foodservice, in a press release. No matter your background, building and running a restaurant is a constant grind but thats what makes the rewards, like this residency, worth it, 2 Chainz added. Opportunities for this kind of exposure in Vegas can be life-changing for businesses. Its great to see brands like Pepsi Dig In, and MGM put the power of their platforms behind these talented Black entrepreneurs, and its a privilege to be among them. Esco Restaurant & Tapas came to fruition nearly nine years ago while the rapper acquired residential and commercial properties around Atlanta. 2 Chainz revealed to theGrio that the idea to launch a restaurant came when his now co-owner, Mychel Snoop Dillard, reached out to rent one of his facilities to expand on one of her previous projects. However, after several meetings and conversations, the two became partners. Merging Snoops expertise and passion for the restaurant business and 2 Chainzs creativity, the pair worked together to create the name, concept design, menu, and overall vibe. Seven years after launching its first location in Atlanta, the restaurant-by-day and lounge-by-night now has locations across Georgia, Tennessee, and Ohio and offers franchising opportunities. And from Sept. 30 to Oct. 27, Vegas foodies will be able to taste one of 2 Chainzs favorites, the Blackened Salmon Alfredo Pasta, featuring Cajun-seasoned fish over classic alfredo along with 2 Chainzs own cocktail. Similarly, each of the participating Restaurant Royals will introduce a special menu item, only available during a three- to four-week timeframe, at Libertine Social located in Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino and Public House situated at Luxor Hotel and Casino. So, as you plan for your next trip to Las Vegas, here are some dates to keep in mind for this residency: Sept. 30 to Oct. 27, 2023: Cranky Grannys Sweet Rolls, Owner Sianni Dean (Pflugerville, Texas) Oct. 28 to Nov. 24, 2023: Taylors Tacos, Co-Owners Taylor and Maya Mason (Chicago) Nov. 25 to Dec. 15, 2023: Blk Swan, Executive Chef and Co-Owner Saon Brice (Baltimore) Dec. 16, 2023 to Jan. 12, 2024: LoLos on The Water, Executive Chef Raymond Mohan and Co-Owner Leticia Skai Young (New York, New York) Jan. 13 to Feb. 6, 2024: Bridgetown Roti, Chef and Owner Rashida Holmes (Los Angeles) Haniyah Philogene is a multimedia storyteller and Lifestyle reporter covering all things culture. With a passion for digital media, she goes above and beyond to find new ways to tell and share stories. TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, and Android TV. TheGrios Black Podcast Network is free too. Download theGrio mobile apps today! Listen to Writing Black with Maiysha Kai. The post From rhymes to recipes: 2 Chainz teams up with Pepsi Dig In for a culinary residency in Las Vegas appeared first on TheGrio. Brightline trains are now going from Miami to Orlando every day. We took the first ride on Sept. 22. The route started in downtown Miami and stopped at stations in Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton and West Palm Beach before arriving at the Orlando airport station 235 miles and about four hours later. Heres a look at what that trip looked like: Brightline tickets for Miami-Orlando route Brightline offers the same amenities as the local South Florida route. The more expensive ticket, Premium, comes with complimentary food and drinks. One-way standard tickets, or SMART fares, to Orlando start at $79 for adults and are $39 for kids ages 2 to 12. Round-trip tickets will are available. KNOW MORE: Miami-Orlando Brightline route is now on a roll. What to know about taking the train Background Work on the Orlando route got started in June 2019. Leading up to the Orlando route debut, Brightline made history as the fastest train in the Southeast earlier this year, reaching speeds of 130 mph in a test run. However, the train only reaches up to 125 mph on its way to Orlando. Waterfront property owners in Westerly have filed a new lawsuit challenging Rhode Island's beach access law, arguing that it violates the separation-of-powers doctrine. Last week, a federal judge tossed out an earlier challenge to the law by a different group of homeowners on the grounds that it didn't belong in federal court. The new lawsuit was filed in state court Monday. The plaintiffs are David and Linda Roth of West Hartford, Connecticut, and ES710 LLC, which belongs to the Roths' two children. Since 1988, the Roths have owned a 3.62-acre parcel at 3 Niantic Ave. in Westerly, overlooking East Beach. In 2011, their children's LLC acquired an adjoining 13.79-acre parcel of parcel at 7 Niantic Ave., the lawsuit states. "The boundaries of each property encompass an upland area where residential buildings and other improvements are located, as well as dunes and a section of private beach that plaintiffs use for personal and family enjoyment," the lawsuit says. "Each propertys deed designates the Atlantic Ocean as the propertys southerly boundary." East Beach as seen from the balcony of a nearby home in Watch Hill, in Westerly. [The Providence Journal, file / Bob Thayer] What's new in this lawsuit The lawsuit, which was filed in Washington County Superior Court, makes the familiar argument that Rhode Island's shoreline access law constitutes a "taking" of private property. But it also makes the case that the General Assembly overstepped by overruling the judicial branch. The background: For hundreds of years, Rhode Island's Constitution has guaranteed the right to use the shoreline, but it doesn't say anything about where those rights can be exercised. Faced with that question in a case known as State v. Ibbison, the Rhode Island Supreme Court ruled in 1982 that the mean high tide line functioned as the boundary between public and private beach. Beach access: Here's everything to know about RI's new shoreline access law before you head to the beach In recent years, however, advocates drew attention to the fact that the mean high tide line a highly scientific measurement was impossible for the average person to find, and in many places was underwater for much of the day. In response, the General Assembly passed a new law that states that the public has the right to use any beach as long as they're no more than 10 feet above the last high tide line, commonly known as the "seaweed line" or "wrack line." The Westerly homeowners' lawsuit argues that legislators shouldn't have done that, because it's not the legislature's job to interpret the state's Constitution. "It is a fundamental principle of constitutional law and the separation of powers that the interpretation of the federal and state constitutions is reserved for the judiciary, not the legislature," the lawsuit states. Under the separation of powers doctrine, the General Assembly can't overrule the Ibbison decision, it argues. The lawsuit also says that delegates to the 1986 Constitutional Convention considered amending the Constitution to define the shore as "that area below the tidal high water or vegetation line," but decided to leave that to judicial interpretation. The plaintiffs are represented by Gerald J. Petros and Mackenzie C. McBurney of Hinckley, Allen & Snyder. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: RI beach access law challenged by another lawsuit from Westerly Retired Judge Joe McGraw to launch congressional campaign Retired 17th Circuit Court Judge Joe McGraw will hold a campaign kick-off event Oct. 11 to announce his plans to run for Congress. The event will be held at 5:30 p.m. at Franchesco's Ristorante, 7128 Spring Creek Road, in Rockford. The event is advertised on eventbrite as "Judge Joe McGraw for Congress Campaign Kick-Off. ... Join us for an epic campaign kick-off as we rally behind Judge Joe McGraw as he takes on a bid for U.S. Congress." McGraw lives in the Illinois' 17th Congressional District, a seat currently held by Democrat Eric Sorensen. McGraw, a Republican, was appointed to the bench as a circuit judge in January 2002. He was elected to the position in November 2002. He served as chief judge from 2012 to 2017 and retired in July. New Milford Park renovation plans The Village of New Milford and the Rockford Park District will host a news conference at 2 p.m. Thursday to announce upcoming improvements to Upper Park. A new name for Upper Park also will be revealed. The news conference will take place at 2984 Morris Drive, New Milford. Funding for the improvements is coming from grants secured by Illinois state Rep. Maurice West. U.S. Rep Eric Sorensen hosts town hall U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen will host a town hall Thursday night with residents of Illinois 17th congressional district. The town hall will be hosted by phone. A recording will be available afterward. To participate, constituents can call 833-380-0743. The event will be from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Constituents also can ask to receive a call to join by filling out the following form at least one hour before the state of the event. The town hall will feature special guest, Luis Rivas, Jr., president of the Illinois States Association of Letter Carriers. Topics include the looming threat of a government shutdown, the upcoming Farm Bill, infrastructure investments coming to the region and Sorensen's ongoing work to lower costs for working families. Natural land preserve open houses The Natural Land Institute board of trustees and staff will host open houses at two preserves owned by the non-profit land trust. The first open house will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday at Lind-McGeachie Preserve, 6100 Fitzgerald Road, Rockford. Ongoing guided walks will be provided and guests may explore on their own. Moderate level hiking. Parking on site and on the street. The second open house will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lost Flora Fen on Raccoon Creek, 5565 Yale Bridge Road, Rockton. Ongoing guided walks and wagon rides will be available and guests may explore on their own. Easy hiking. Parking on site. Snacks and beverages will be provided. Registration is requested. To register, visit naturalland.org, call 815-964-6666, or email info@naturalland.org. This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Rockford Daybook: McGraw congressional campaign, Sorensen town hall Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) The House of Representatives has approved all 20 priority measures identified by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) three months before the end of 2023, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez said. Romualdez touted the House's swift passage of key measures on the final day of session Wednesday before lawmakers went on a month-long break. He said the House and Senate agreed to pass the 20 priority bills by December this year during the LEDACs second meeting on July 5, but the lower chamber accomplished the goal before the deadline. Of the 20 priority measures approved by the House, Romualdez said two may soon be signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. into law. These are House Bill (HB) 7006 or Automatic Income Classification Act for Local Government Units, and HB 8278 or the Philippine Salt Industry Development Act. "Today as we adjourn, and as a result of the synergistic interaction of all the members, I am proud to report that the 19th Congress of the House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading 20 priority measures targeted for approval on third reading by the end of this year. Ladies and gentlemen, we are three months ahead of the target set during the LEDAC meeting," the House speaker said. The other LEDAC priority measures approved by the House are: HB 6522 - Philippine Centers for Disease Prevention and Control Act HB 6518 - Health Auxiliary Reinforcement Team Act HB 6452 - Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines Act HB 6687 - Instituting a National Citizens Service Program HB 6558 - Real Property Valuation and Assessment Reform Act HB 7327 - E-Governance/E-Government Act HB 6444 - Waste Treatment Technology Act HB 6510 - New Philippine Passport Act HB 7325 - Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers HB 7240 - National Government Rightsizing Act HB 7393 - Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act HB 7446 - Amending the Bank Secrecy Law HB 8969 - Military and Other Uniformed Personnel Pension Act HB 9284 - Anti Agri-fishery Commodities and Tobacco Economic Sabotage Act of 2023 Marcos on Wednesday signed into law RA 11962 or the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act (National Employment Recovery Strategy). HB 7006 or the "Automatic Income Classification Act for Local Government Units" has been transmitted to Malacanang for appropriate action, while the House adopted Senate Bill 1846 as an amendment to HB 0004 or the Internet Transactions or E-Commerce Law. The House has also ratified the conference committee reports on HB 6527 or the Public-Private Partnership Act, and HB 4125 or the Ease of Paying Taxes Act, which means they are only awaiting Marcos signature before becoming law. Ask Rodney Williams about his lifes work cooking and serving Jamaican food, and the Johnny Cash song Ive Been Everywhere comes to mind. These days, Williams, 52, a native of Montego Bay, Jamaica, has his Rodneys Jamaican Grill food truck parked at 420 67th St. W., Bradenton. Thats right outside the 120-seat Jamaican Grill restaurant, which Williams operated before moving his business to Palmetto 7 1/2 years ago. Williams will begin cooking in the restaurant as soon as he gets his Florida state inspection. For now, the food truck handles the food preparation and guests may dine in the restaurant. Williams culinary journey has also taken him to restaurants in Longboat Key, Bradenton Beach and more. He worked at The Broadmoor resort in Colorado Springs in 2000, and for Hilton Hotels for 2 1/2 years, also in Colorado, before being transferred to the Hilton on Longboat Key. While the majority of his career has been in brick-and-mortar restaurants, he got into the food truck business about 18 months ago, in part because of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The food truck business took off with Rodneys Jamaican Grill visiting trailer parks, Ellenton, Lakewood Ranch and the local Nissan dealership. Rodney Williams recently brought Rodneys Jamaican Grill back to Bradenton at 420 67th St. W. Williams has been cooking and serving Jamaican food in the Bradenton area for more than a decade. There was a lot of takeout during the pandemic, he said. The success of the business comes down to the authentic cuisine and the personality of the genial Williams himself. Long-time friend Winfred Spencer stopped by Rodneys Jamaican Grill this week for the jerk chicken alfredo and for the reggae music. I always know that Rodney will be here, Spencer said. I met him when his restaurant was on Longboat Key. The jerk pork tenderloin dinner at Rodneys Jamaican Grill is served with two sides and sells for $14 at Rodneys Jamaican Grill, 420 67th St. W., Bradenton. The most popular entree at Rodneys? That would be the slow-simmered oxtails, seasoned with Jamaican spices, Williams said. Also popular is Mama Gs Sampler: curry goat, oxtail and jerk chicken served with rice, beans and plantains. Other entrees include jerk chicken, Montego Bay snapper, curry chicken, brown stew chicken, ribeye steak, and more, starting at $13. The jerk chicken dinner at Rodneys Jamaican Grill is served with two sides and sells for $14 at Rodneys Jamaican Grill, 420 67th St. W., Bradenton. Also available are a variety of starters (jerk wings, mozzarella sticks, grilled shrimp kabobs and more), salads and sandwiches (jerk chicken, sirloin burger, Philly steak and ham, and more). Beer, including Jamaican favorite Red Stripe, and wine are available. Williams expects to eventually have a full bar. For dessert, request the bread pudding. Asked about the success of great Jamaican athletes like sprinters Usain Bolt and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Williams has a ready answer. We dont eat fast food. We eat real food, he said. Rodneys Jamaican Grill shrimp salads are lined up and ready to go for hungry customers. Rodneys Jamaican Grill is open six days a week and closed Monday. Hours are 11 a.m.- 10 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, 11 a.m. - midnight Thursday through Saturday and 1 - 9 p.m. Sunday. Food trucks, like Rodneys Jamaican Grill, have become an integral part of the Bradenton dining scene. Rich Knowles, a chef and owner of Innovative Dining, a catering business, also operates Bradentrucky Grub Truck at 5239 Manatee Ave. W. That is the same address where Knowles is preparing to relaunch his EnRich Bistro, which he closed in 2020, early in the pandemic. Others making the transition to brick-and-mortar include TK Grill & Barbeque, 4927 96th St. E., Palmetto, and sisters Mindy and Ali Converse with their American Honey Creamery, 4949 96th St. E., Palmetto. Tu Tran, who operates the T & T Hibachi Japanese Food at 8003 U.S. 301 N., Parrish, is making plans to open a brick-and-mortar restaurant in the Orange Blossom plaza at 403 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. For more information, about Rodneys Jamaican Grill, visit https://rodneysjamaicangrillinc.com/. This embedded content is not available in your region. Former Pink Floyd star Roger Waters made up a song in which he referred to his agent as a f***ing Jew, a new documentary has alleged. The Dark Side of Roger Waters includes a number of extraordinary and disturbing claims by those who have worked with the controversial Floyd co-founder and bassist, including Bob Ezrin , the acclaimed co-producer behind the bands 1979 album The Wall. One musician, saxophonist Norbert Stachel, claimed that Waters once angrily pushed away a dish served to him in a Lebanese restaurant, referring to it as Jew food, and did a crude impersionation of his grandmother as a Polish peasant woman. Emails purportedly sent by Waters ahead of his 2010 tour claimed to show him asking about having antisemitic slurs written on a giant inflatable pig that would be flown over the audience during his concerts. The documentary, which was produced by London-based charity Campaign Against Antisemitism and presented by investigative journalist John Ware, was released on Wednesday evening (27 September) on the CAAs social media platforms. Waters, 80, has come under fire on a number of occasions for making inflammatory remarks about Israel. He has vehemently denied he is an antisemite. The documentarys producers said he did not respond to their requests for comment. Ezrin, who is Jewish, alleged that he heard Waters use antisemitic slurs. The ditty he accused Waters of composing was about Pink Floyds agent, Bryan Morrison. Something like the last line of the couplet was cause Morry is a f***ing Jew. It was my first inclination that there may be some antisemitism under the surface, Ezrin, 74, said in the documentary. Now Roger knew that Im Jewish so I didnt know whether this was another one of those sort of button-poking things that he was doing just to see if I would react or whether he just did not even get how offensive that might be to a Jewish person. Stachel recalled the moment that Waters discovered he was from a Jewish family from Poland and Minsk, and had a number of relatives who were murdered during the Holocaust. Waters allegedly responded: Oh, I can help you feel like you are meeting your long-lost relatives. Ill introduce you to your dead grandmother. I can do a good Polish peasant imitation, an impression of a Polish peasant woman. Stachel during the Roger Waters documentary (YouTube/Campaign Against Antisemitism) He tried to go into character as a babushka and he puts on this impression of an old hag. He tries to portray a Polish Jewish peasant womans voice, Stachel claimed. What got me is after he does this he goes: Now youve met your grandmother, how do you feel now? He knew that I wouldnt challenge him on it because I wanted his money and I wanted his gig. A power thing, thats all, and an arrogance thing. Maybe an evil thing. Ezrin, who has known Waters for decades, called Waters a brilliant songwriter and poet, whom he viewed as both a musical partner and a friend. There were times when he was really tender and very sweet, and I loved the man, I did, he said. Part of me still loves him; part of me is very upset with him for positions hes taking in the public that affect me as a Jew, and affect my people, and my family, and my friends. And I feel thats why I have to do this interview and speak about it publicly. Pink Floyd producer Bob Ezrin (YouTube) In May this year, Waters caused uproar in Germany after dressing in an outfit resembling a Nazi SS office during his live shows, while also projecting the name of Anne Frank on a giant screen. Unearthed emails shown in the documentary purport to detail how Waters dealt with disagreements over his use of the troubling imagery, some of which appeared during his 2010 world tour. He apparently wanted to write antisemitic insults and symbols including swastikas on the pig, such as dirty kike and follow the money. Kike is an derogatory slur used against Jewish people. The word was apparently dropped by Waters after protests from his lighting director at the time, who was Jewish. Do I think he considers himself to be an antisemite? Ezrin said in the documentary. Ill bet you dollars for doughnuts he does not and he will be the first person to say: Im not anti anything, I am in favour of everyone. But as a person with a powerful public platform he has a responsibility to understand that what he does affects other people and so he may not be one but he walks like one, he quacks like one, he swims like one so from my point of view hes functionally a duck. Roger Waters was criticised by his former saxophonist for alleged bullying behaviour (PA Archive) Others in the documentary suggested that Waters comments were the result of either arrogance, ignorance, bullying behaviour or nascent antisemitism. Gideon Falter, chief executive of the Campaign Against Antisemitism, said: Roger Waters is literally a rock star. He could do anything. Hes got this platform which allows him to influence tens of thousands of people at his concerts, millions of people via social media, and yet he keeps using it for this to push the buttons of Jews, to bait Jews, to keep on coming back to Jews. What kind of a person does that with that kind of a voice? In June, Waters called out his former bandmate David Gilmours wife, author Polly Samson, during a performance at the O2 Arena in London. Samson, who has also written lyrics for Pink Floyd, has previously accused Waters of antisemitism in a post from her Twitter/X account. All I have to say about Polly Samson is: imagine waking up to that every morning, Waters said, apparently referring to Gilmour. He previously responded on his official Twitter/X account, saying he was aware of the incendiary and wildly inaccurate comments made about him on Twitter by Polly Samson which he refutes entirely Waters has repeatedly claimed that allegations of antisemitism made against him are an attempt to undermine his stance on Israel. The Independent has contacted Waters representative for comment. WARSAW, Poland Romanias Ministry of National Defence has announced it aims to sign a letter of acceptance in 2024 to buy 32 F-35 Lightning II fighters in the programs first phase, and subsequently secure a further 16 aircraft. Bucharest intends to purchase the first two squadrons from the United States of America through the Foreign Military Sales [scheme to buy] 32 aircraft. The purchase, whose value is estimated at $6.5 billion, will be based upon a government-to-government-type contract, the Romanian ministry said. The endowment program is designed to be completed in two stages. At the end of these, the Romanian Air Force will count three F-35 squadrons, the ministrys press office told Defense News in a Sept. 28 statement. Documents for the first stage of the program were sent for the parliaments approval. Romanias planned contract is to also cover the delivery of 35 engines, initial logistics support, training services for pilots and technical staff, simulators, weapons, as well as ammunition. The Romanian ministry said it expects to receive the first jets in 2030. The decision to buy a then-undisclosed number of F-35s was taken by the Romanian Supreme Council on National Defense (CSAT), a state body chaired by President Klaus Iohannis, at its April 11 meeting. The jet is made by U.S. defense giant Lockheed Martin. The planned deal could make Romania the fighters largest operator on NATOs eastern flank. A growing group of Eastern European allies have set their sights on the F-35. In January 2020, the Polish cabinet signed a deal worth some $4.6 billion to purchase 32 fighters along with a training and logistics package. Meanwhile, Czech defense leaders said this week they had secured Cabinet approval to buy 24 F-35s. In a Sept. 27 statement released by her ministry, Czech Defence Minister Jana Cernochova said the project to buy the fifth-generation aircraft with related equipment, weapons and logistics will cost less than five billion dollars, and will be paid gradually in the years 2024 to 2034. Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala said the first fighters are expected to be ready in 2029, with deliveries to be completed in 2035. During the messy second Republican presidential debate on Wednesday night, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) nearly disintegrated while answering a question about abortion. Perhaps thats because his campaign is on life support and the question came more than one hour and 45 minutes into the debate. But really, whos to say? Anyway, his answer made it sound like he desperately wants former President Donald Trump to stare into his eyes. Moderator Dana Perino noted before the debate was nearly done that the 2024 election could come down to a few swing states and pointed out that Republicans lost all six times abortion was on the ballot in 2022. Next year, abortion will likely be on the ballot in Arizona. That is a must-win state, Perino asked DeSantis. How are you going to win over independent, pro-choice voters in Arizona? And DeSantis appeared close to malfunctioning since he cant actually win over anyone who is voting for abortion rights. Read more I reject this idea that pro-lifers are to blame for midterm defeats. I think theres other reasons for that. The former president, hes missing in action tonight, hes had a lot to say about that, DeSantis said. He should be here explaining his comments to try to say that pro-life protections are somehow a terrible thing. I want him to look into the eyes and tell [that to] people whove been fighting this fight for a long time. DeSantis is (awkwardly) trying to outflank Trump by being more draconian on abortion pic.twitter.com/86N9rCWFXF Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) September 28, 2023 If I didnt know better, Id think Rons fee fees are hurt, and that he just wants someone to look in his eyes. But its much more likely that hes sucking up to influential anti-abortion groups whose endorsement he needs if he has any hope of winning the nomination. Trump doesnt actually care about abortion policy, he just wants to win and the anti-abortion activists have been critical of him for this reason. If the groups endorse DeSantis for being the best anti-abortion psycho in the race, it could potentially resuscitate his flagging campaign. Overall, the debate really felt like the interview for second place. The seven candidates on the stage have the combined support of 36 percent of Republican primary voters in a national polling averagewhich is still 20 points behind Trump. So DeSantis knows he has to do something. Last time at the circus, in late August, DeSantis told a bizarre story about a fetus in a pan in an attempt to paint Democrats as extreme. But it was actually a tale about the fallout of a coat-hanger abortionmeaning the story shows the lengths desperate people will go in order to end a pregnancy in the face of restrictive laws. Cant wait to see what fresh weird hell awaits us in the third debate, set for November 8. Mark your cals (so you can throw your phone into the sea). More from Jezebel Sign up for Jezebel's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. As Washington careens toward yet another budget-induced shutdown, the usual suspects are being rounded up. According to Jared Golden, Maines maverick Democratic Congressman, the solution is clear: The only way to avert a shutdown is to come to the table to negotiate a bipartisan agreement. Hes wrong of course, but perhaps can be forgiven perhaps because hes been in Washington only since 2019. Douglas Rooks In truth, the sole way a shutdown can be averted is for House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to finally get control of his caucus. As of this writing, that appears exceedingly unlikely. The facts are simple. Only Republicans have ever shut down a federal or state government, and only Republicans think its a good idea. Newt Gingrich, the long-ago House speaker (1995-98) pioneered the technique, which he believed would give him mastery over the erratic Bill Clinton , following up by impeaching the young president over the Monica Lewinsky sex scandal. When the move backfired numerous GOP senators voted to acquit and Republicans lost five House seats in the 1998 midterms Gingrich resigned and left Congress for good, though he still natters away as a commentator. Gingrich, however, was not the first Republican shutdown artist. That title must go to Maines own Charlie Webster, who entered the 1991 legislative session bent on dethroning longtime Democratic House Speaker John Martin by any means necessary. Webster led a small band of 13 Republican senators in a chamber of 35 one more than one-third but just enough to allow him to block adoption of a biennial budget under Maines peculiar two-thirds rule. Gov. John McKernan played along, even though the issue was workers compensation and not the budget itself. Maine endured a far more wrenching shutdown than the federal government. Phones went unanswered, and state liquor stores the only source of Fourth of July booze were closed, to the outrage of well-heeled tourists. By the time Gingrich struck, it was mainly federal office workers who were furloughed. No Social Security checks were delayed; its likely to be so this time too. Since Gingrichs exit, no Republican House speaker has been fully in control of his caucus. His immediate successor, Dennis Hastert , was a figurehead. The real power in the land was Tom DeLay, a brilliant maneuverer from Texas who was majority whip, then majority leader, and came up with such outrageous schemes as re-redistricting the Texas legislature when Republicans finally won a majority there in 2002, even though Democrats had already done the customary redistricting two years earlier. Courts upheld the move, finding nothing in the Texas constitution to prevent redistricting more often than the required 10 years. The heavily gerrymandered Republican maps have prevailed ever since. DeLay finally had to resign from Congress after being indicted and convicted of campaign money laundering. He was sentenced to three years, but never served a day after convincing state appeals court judges there was insufficient evidence. Ah, politics. Hastert was followed by Democrat Nancy Pelosi, who was followed by John Boehner , the last Republican speaker with a foot in the traditional party. Boehner followed the usual practice of making budget deals with Democrats, which earned him scorn and hatred from the Freedom Caucus, which goes by various names but still runs the show. Boehner gave up, resigning mid-session in 2015, to be succeeded by Paul Ryan, a faux intellectual. Ryans much admired budget plan, for instance, required all discretionary spending to be zeroed out within two decades but the budget would balance without raising taxes! Ryan made a quiet exit by declining to run for reelection. Pelosi came back after the Democrats regained control in 2018, when Golden won his seat, and she made a remarkably graceful departure in 2022 in full possession of her powers the first speaker to voluntarily step down in decades while still serving. Shes tarnished that legacy by announcing that, though now an 83-year-old rank-and-filer, shes nonetheless running for reelection. Turns out shes House Democrats fundraiser-in-chief, and no ones allowed to retire from that post. Then theres Kevin McCarthy, whose puppy-like eagerness for the job resulted in endless ballots and equally endless concessions to his caucuss crazy faction. No one seems to remember the budget targets McCarthy agreed to in the debt ceiling deal the extremists now insist he violate. The last, fragile hope is a continuing resolution to somehow return government to normalcy, if not exactly to normal. Even so, nothing will really change until November 2024. At that point, voters need to ask themselves: Is this what you want to happen, over and over? If so, vote Republican. If not, perhaps you could ask Jared Golden what to do. Douglas Rooks has been a Maine editor, columnist and reporter since 1984. His new book, Calm Command: U.S. Chief Justice Melville Fuller in His Times, 1888-1910, will be published later this year. He welcomes comment at drooks@tds.net This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Rooks: The Republican Party owns government shutdown politics 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. The Kremlin is fuming about Armenias efforts to join the International Criminal Court (ICC), which has issued an arrest warrant against Vladimir Putin in connection with alleged war crimes in Ukraine. Kremlin Spokersperson Dmitry Peskov warned that Armenias interest in joining the ICC is extremely hostile to Russia. Armenia knows very well that we are not parties to the [Rome Statute], and Armenia is well aware of the difficult decision [of the International Criminal Court to issue an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin ], adopted on the basis of this statute, Peskov said, according to TASS. We know that in Yerevan about this is very well known. This is not something that we welcome. The arrest warrant was issued in relation to Putins alleged involvement in abducting children from Ukraine during the war. The ICC doesnt have the power to enforce its arrest warrant, so any effort to apprehend Putin will have to be in coordination with local authorities. The icy statement from Moscow comes as Armenia signals it is interested in a foreign policy less dependent on Russia, after Moscow failed to intervene when Azerbaijani military forces attacked the breakaway republic Nagorno-Karabakh, an ethnic Armenian enclave located inside Azerbaijan, last week. Armenia is a member of the Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), a group in which members promise to protect each other if attacked. First Look Inside the Historic Mass Exodus Putin Failed to Prevent Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan called his countrys security understandings with Russia ineffective. It has become evident to all of us that the CSTO instruments and the instruments of the Armenian-Russian military-political cooperation are insufficient for protecting external security of Armenia, Pashinyan said this week. Armenia is now working to grapple with a surge of ethnic Armenian refugees fleeing Nagorno-Karabakh. Over 76,000 ethnic Armeniansover half of Nagorno-Karabakhs populationhave arrived in Armenia already, fleeing violence and the looming dissolution of their regional authorities, the office of the Prime Minister of Armenia said Thursday. Shockingly Quick Defeat Shows Putin Is Now Too Weak to Defend His Allies The separatist region capitulated to Azerbaijan and announced it will cease to exist by January 1, 2024. President Samvel Shakhramanyan, the regions separatist leader, signed a decree this week aimed at dismantling all of the regions institutions, urging residents to consider integrating with Azerbaijan. Armenia is hoping to join the ICC in order to hold Azerbaijan accountable for its violence and alleged war crimes, according to Armenias Minister of Justice, Grigor Minasyan. Azerbaijan has denied it has conducted ethnic cleansing, and rather has claimed it began its lightning offensive last week to go after "anti-terrorist" operations, according to TASS. Pashinyan sent the ICCs founding document, the Rome Statute, to parliament earlier this month. Armenia signed the Rome Statute 25 years ago but never ratified it. Changes wont happen immediately, but Armenias parliament is taking steps this week towards ratification of the statute. The Armenian National Assemblys Standing Committee on State-Legal Issues approve the decision on Thursday, according to Armenian Public Radio. If ratified, the Rome Statute would enter into force in 60 days, according to Yeghishe Kirakosyan, Representative of the Republic of Armenia for International Legal Matters. While Moscow is irritated with Armenias desire to join the ICC, Armenia has expressed that it is not interested in angering Moscow, but instead is focused on going after Azerbaijan. Why Putin Finally Planned a Big Trip Abroad After His Arrest Warrant Armenia has long been interested in joining the ICC. Last year, Pashinyans administration began the process of ratifying the Rome Statute to hold Azerbaijan accountable for a spate of violence in 2021 and 2022 as well. Pashinyan previously pushed back on the idea that joining the ICC is a barb aimed at Russia. The decision is not directed against CSTO and the Russian Federation," he said. "It comes from the interests of the country's external security, and taking such a decision is our sovereign right. War crimes are being committed against our country. We need this [ratification]; our country needs it, he said. Kirakosyan, too, sought to throw cold water on the idea that if Putin were to visit Armenia while it is party to the Rome Statue that he would be arrested. Leaders of countries have immunity, he said Thursday. 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 forces launched an attack against Kostiantynivka in Donetsk Oblast in the afternoon on Sept. 28, injuring three people, head of the city's military administration Oleksii Roslov told Suspilne News. "At 12:50, there was a strike in the residential district of Kostiantynivka," Roslov reportedly said. "According to the latest information, three people were injured, one of them is in serious condition." The official added that the number of damaged buildings and the type of weapon that Russian forces used in the attack is currently unknown. The city of Kostiantynivka lies close to the front line and is a common target of Russian strikes. Russian forces attacked the settlement with aerial bombs on Sept. 28 at 4:10 and on Sept. 27 afternoon. According to Roslov, all three strikes targeted the same area in the city. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Another Russian command post reportedly hit; Supposedly dead Russian general shown alive Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Russia has accused the West of providing intel that enabled a strike on its Black Sea HQ. It says US and UK spy planes handed Ukraine information to help plan the attack. Ukraine said senior officers were killed in the missile attack last week near Sevastopol. Russia accused Ukraine's allies the US and UK of providing the intelligence that enabled last week's strike on its Black Sea fleet's headquarters. In a press briefing Wednesday, Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that the attack was planned using surveillance data from Western intelligence. "There is no doubt that the attack had been planned in advance using Western intelligence means, NATO satellite assets and reconnaissance planes and was implemented upon the advice of American and British security agencies and in close coordination with them," Zakharova said, reported the AFP. The claim couldn't be verified intelligence agencies tend not to discuss information-sharing in such detail. A rival explanation provided by resistance fighters in Ukraine is that the intelligence leading from the strike came from a more embarrassing source: disaffected Russian officers. Per a report earlier this week, officers who hadn't been paid by the Russian military sold information to resistance groups in Crimea, enabling Ukraine to target an important meeting and maximize the casualties. Nonetheless, it is true that the West shares intelligence with Ukraine. NATO countries fly surveillance planes over the international waters of the Black Sea, sometimes resulting in confrontation. Western intelligence sources have also described giving Ukraine information to help it target strikes against Russia, including in a February report by The Washington Post. Ukraine claims that 34 Russian officers were killed in the missile strike on the base near Sevastopol in occupied Crimea last Friday. The Kremlin claimed the damage was much milder one serviceman missing after the attack. Ukraine also said that among the 34 dead was the admiral of the Black Sea Fleet, Viktor Sokolov. However, that claim was thrown into doubt when Russia footage seeming to show him alive. Zakharova's comments are not the first time Russia has sought to focus the blame for Ukrainian attacks on the West. Russian President Vladimir Putin has sought to portray Western support for Ukraine as part of a covert plot to destroy Russia in an apparent bid to rally domestic support for the war. Kremlin hawks have repeatedly menaced the West over its support for Ukraine. Russia's Security Council chief and former president Dmitry Medvedev on Thursday said that the arrival of US Abrams tanks in Ukraine was pushing the West and Russia closer to direct conflict. "It seems that Russia is being left with less and less choice but direct conflict with NATO," wrote Medvedev on Telegram,Newsweek said. The steady supply of Western weapons and money to Ukraine has so far not resulted in Russian retaliation against a NATO member. Read the original article on Business Insider Russia has committed 534 crimes against Ukrainian Cultural Heritage sites since the beginning of the war Russia launched against Ukraine in 2014 with the annexation of Crimea. These data were documented by the non-governmental organisation Crimean Institute for Strategic Studies (CISS), said Elmira Ablyalimova-Chiyhoz, an expert in cultural studies and project manager, at the presentation of a website for documenting violations against cultural property, reported Ukrinform. The organisation started recording the crimes of the Russians against cultural heritage with objects in Crimea. "We started with the first case The Bakhchysarai Palace. And I remember how difficult it was to convince the monument protection community that what is happening on the territory of this palace is not restoration work. This is the destruction and mockery of the monument. And what we see today has confirmed all our sad forecasts," said Ablyalimova-Chiyhoz. They started the documentation with the Bakhchysarai Palace. Central entrance and main building under a temporary cover In total, more than 500 such cases have been documented over the years. "Today, we have a fairly large database of crimes against the cultural heritage of Ukraine. In general, we have recorded 534 violations committed by the Russian invaders. Of these, 200 violations were recorded in Crimea, 334 in the temporarily occupied territories of Kherson, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk oblasts," said Ablyalimova-Chiyhoz. Elmira Ablyalimova-Chiyhoz She noted that "the scale of cultural losses caused by Russia's full-scale military aggression in Ukraine is comparable to a humanitarian catastrophe." That is why conducting systematic work documenting these violations now is so important. Ablyalimova-Chiyhoz says crimes against cultural heritage committed by Russia include in particular: appropriation of cultural heritage objects; use of cultural property for military purposes; movement of cultural property from the occupied territories; museum lootings; illegal archaeological work; modification and reconstruction of monuments; decontextualisation of historical sites. Examples of all these crimes in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine have been posted by CISS specialists on its updated site. Examples of crimes against the cultural heritage of Ukraine. Screenshot from the site The Crimean Institute for Strategic Studies has been documenting violations against cultural property in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine since 2016. Until 2022, it focused on violations in protecting cultural heritage objects in the territory of temporarily occupied Crimea. With the beginning of the full-scale invasion, it extended its activities to the newly occupied territories of Ukraine. Main photo: A.Savin / Wikipedia 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! (CNN) An Australian man who faked his own kidnapping to spend time with his mistress on New Years Eve has been ordered to pay back the cost of the police operation to find him. Paul Iera appeared at Wollongong Local Court in New South Wales on Tuesday and was told hed have to pay the state government around $10,000 for 200 hours worth of police work after his partner reported him missing. The 35-year-old tradesman went to meet his mistress on December 31, but lied to his partner about meeting with his financial guy, CNN affiliate 9 News reported. In a moment of desperation, the pair sent his partner a text to buy time. But the message blew up despite the somewhat easy-to-oblige ransom. Thank you for sending Paul to me, now payback is a ***** bye bye. We will keep him with us until the morning wen (sic) he gives us his bike we call it square, the message said, according to 9 News. Ieras worried partner reported the matter to the police minutes before midnight, prompting officers to investigate, 9 news reported. Iera and his mistress were intercepted the next morning at a police roadblock, but even then he maintained he had been taken by a group of unknown Middle Eastern men who later let him go. But 12 days later, he was arrested and charged with making a false accusation with the intent to subject another person to investigation. Iera was also sentenced to a three-year community correction order, though he was spared jail time for a crime Magistrate Michael Ong called abhorrent, according to 9 News. Ong said the couple was motivated by the least compelling reason he had ever come across. Ieras lawyer Abbas Soukie issued a statement on his behalf, saying that his client was pleased to have avoided a jail sentence. Since the commission of the offence, Mr Iera has made tremendous rehabilitative progress and todays outcome is reflective of the courts attempt to promote that ongoing rehabilitation, the statement said. Mr Iera continues to enjoy the support of his family and partner, and wishes to move forward with his life as a productive member of the community. This story was first published on CNN.com, "Australian man who faked his own kidnapping to meet mistress ordered to pay police" In March 2022 right after the start of Russias full-scale invasion, a cell phone video apparently taken by a Russian soldier captured two Zemledeliye mobile mine-laying systems thought to be stationed in Kharkiv Oblast. Positioned against a drab backdrop of what was once farmland, the Zemledeliyes, a word that means agriculture in Russian, could, on a very gloomy day, be mistaken for farm equipment. And indeed, these machines have been brought to sow Ukrainian fields. A second into the video, the mine-laying systems begin firing. They are quickly engulfed in smoke, the launcher swallowed up so completely that even its silhouette vanishes. Deep in the billowing cloud, flashes of white light keep time with the ignition of each 122mm rocket as it screeches skywards. The landscape is engulfed as the launchers settle into their keening, mechanical rhythm. In one minute and 13 seconds, all 100 rockets have been spent. Each rocket, fully loaded, carries 312 PFM-1 Butterfly anti-personnel mines. The mines are green or olive in color, and recognizable by their distinctive shape, similar to the propellor seeds that spiral down from maple, ash, and sycamore trees. They are exceptionally small and light: just five inches end-to-end with plastic shells and only 40 grams of explosive per Butterfly. Somewhere between five and fifteen kilometers away the launchers optimal range around 31,200 landmines are spinning to Earth. In less than a minute, the two mine launchers have knitted together a minefield in the sky and dropped it over Ukrainian soil like a net. Forty grams of explosive in a light plastic casing is not usually enough to kill but is enough to take a foot or a hand from a fighter. After the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, they became better known for their injurious effects on the curious children who would find them while out playing. PFM-1 Butterfly mines lay strewn on the ground April 29, 2002 at the Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan. Russia has been using these difficult-to-detect mines in its war against Ukraine. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) In December 2022, Human Rights Watch (HRW) confirmed that, with eerie symmetry, Russia was using both 13 models of anti-personnel and 13 models of anti-vehicle landmines in its invasion of Ukraine, and that approximately 30% of the country an area twice the size of Austria had been contaminated with mines. Speaking to the Kyiv Independent nine months later, HRW Associate Director, Mark Hiznay, explained the near impossibility of keeping that figure current. We are dealing with estimates that are being drawn up in an emergency situation where hostilities are ongoing, Hiznay explains. Put simply: Its hard to count landmines through a storm of bullets and shell fragments. What is known is that Russia, at the beginning of the full-scale invasion, had a stockpile of 26 million mines the largest in the world, according to various estimates. With one vehicle able to place 15,600 mines in a single salvo, what percentage of that number now sits buried in Ukrainian soil, gathering silt in its lakes, or floating down its rivers is impossible to assess. Jon Cunliffe, of the Mines Advisory Group (MAG), an international humanitarian organization that not only provides modern demining technology and training to afflicted countries but also extensive education programs for their citizens via in-person training sessions and through national media, agrees, adding: What is the point of clearing somewhere, only to have to go back and re-clear that area again later? An evolving threat Mine clearance, according to both Cunliffe and his MAG colleague, Jon Brown, is an extremely slow, painstaking process. As MAG is a humanitarian organization, it does not operate in active combat zones, but military deminers have long been priority targets for troops protecting minefields. Since the First World War, landmines have been frequently booby-trapped and special bounties were offered for the killing of improvised explosive device (IED) specialists in Iraq and Afghanistan. However, while a team of specialists might have suffered casualties while clearing a minefield in the Second World War, that field or at least, a path through it was clear. Traditionally, the World War II mentality was that all of these mines are going to be buried by hand, in front of you, facing targets that are in close proximity. You know the targets are going to be armored vehicles so you can start putting the dinner plates (Hiznays term for the heavy, old-fashioned mines of the same shape) out in patterns that either deter someone from entering or encourage them to enter a piece of terrain, Hiznay explains. (Since) the Cold War, that (ability) to place mines by rockets or by aircraft means youre able to now do that from 20 kilometers away. Further complicating humanitarian mine-clearing efforts is the sheer variety of mines that Russia is using. There is more than just the PFM-1 Butterfly, historically referred to as the green parrot. A man using a remote control demonstrates an up-armored excavator for demining purposes, in Kryvyi Rig on Sept.15, 2023, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine has huge areas scattered with mines placed by departing Russian troops, as well as unexploded shells and missiles, which could take many years to clear. (Photo by Roman Pilipey / AFP via Getty Images) The OZM-72 a bounding mine usually triggered by pressure or a tripwire that jumps (or bounds) a meter into the air before exploding looks like a paint can attached to a radio antenna. The POM-3 probably Russias rarest and most expensive anti-personnel mine modestly hides its seismic sensor and bounding explosive charge inside what could be a misplaced Thermos flask. Simply put: landmines dont look like landmines anymore. Most people (if asked to) draw a landmine, they will draw that classic landmine shape: round with a bit raised in the center, says Cunliffe. They will not draw the equivalent of a Butterfly. And so that is why there is such an effort in terms of explosive risk education going on. To date, 164 countries are signatories to the 1997 Ottawa Treaty (more popularly known as the Mine Ban Treaty,) which bans the use, production, and stockpiling of anti-personnel mines, primarily due to their lasting threat to defenseless civilians and especially children. But Russia is not a signatory of the treaty. While the vast majority of countries have spent years disassembling and destroying their stockpiles of landmines, Russias military-industrial complex has been pouring money into R&D programs to create ever-deadlier mines that citizens of Ukraine which signed on February 24th, 1999 would have no earthly reason to recognize, let alone proportionately fear. Fighting back: From dogs to drones In Ukraine, two charities in particular - MAG and the HALO Trust - are working to educate, train, and provide for civilians and new Ukrainian demining teams. MAG provides in-person humanitarian demining training, as well as public information over radio, television, and signs posted in train cars. But MAG can also help to provide high-tech equipment, from Hurt-Locker-style bomb suits to the so-called MineWolf somewhere between a tank and a combine harvester, which can be remotely piloted through minefields, deliberately triggering devices with its thresher. Animals with keen senses of smell also have potential parts to play in detection, at least. Theyve tried it with rats, which work well in certain contexts, says Cunliffe. Theyve even tried training bees, to see if the bees could smell mines. But dogs are pretty much the standard in terms of what wed like to see inside Ukraine. The Ukrainian government has said it would like to see 10,000 dog teams working in the country in 2024, consisting of one animal and one handler, according to Cunliffe. Dogs particularly German Shepherds, Labradors, and Belgian Malinois were used extensively in Afghanistan as key parts of IED disposal teams. But they are expensive, and the training is time-consuming. At the other end of the technological spectrum are Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), also known as drones. An operator launches a drone during a press tour set to demonstrate the integration of AI into the process of humanitarian demining in Zhytomyr Oblast. (Photo by Ukrinform/NurPhoto via Getty Images) The use of UAVs in survey work in particular is increasing, (as are) the different types of cameras that you can use on the drones, Cunliffe says. I was watching images (in August) from thermal cameras because in Ukraine its been so hot, which means that when the temperatures go down, if the mines are just under the surface you can get a very, very good thermal image of the whole minefield. But while charities like MAG provide equipment, education, and training and while Ukrainians step up to reclaim their land the danger is that the West simply doesnt grasp the severity of the threat. Both Hiznays World War II mindset and the specter of the IED from its most recent wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have obscured the facts that landmines dont look like landmines anymore and are spread out in huge numbers across vast swaths of territories. The longer the war continues, the longer the Russian presence will haunt Ukraine after the shooting stops. Hidden in its fields, underneath the snow, in the ruins of the cities the West has pledged to rebuild, the mines will lie in wait for Ukrainians returning home, and for the generations who follow them. 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. Cuban media outlet Cubanet has found that Vladimir Shkunov, a Russian historian, recruited Cuban youths to join the Russian army under the guise of offering employment in construction. Source: Cubanet; Radio Liberty Details: A number of young men told Cubanet that they had been offered construction jobs via Facebook Messenger that turned out to be a cover for taking part in Russias war against Ukraine. More than a dozen men spoke to Cubanet, although not all of them had agreed to the offer. Those who did said that they underwent infantry and martial arts training. They were also invited to attend a talk, delivered by the Cuban military, about the friendly ties between Cuba and Russia. The men who spoke to Cubanet confirmed that they had served in the Cuban army before being recruited as mercenaries into the Russian Armed Forces. Vladimir Shkunov is a historian, leading researcher at the Volga branch of the Institute of Russian History at the Russian Academy of Sciences, and a member of the Expert Council under the Russian government. He has been running a Facebook group called Russia for Cubans since 2021. Vladimir Shkunov Photo: Cubanet, via Vladimir Skunovs Facebook Shkunov has headed the Ulyanovsk Regional Department of the Russian Society for Friendship with Cuba, which is affiliated with the Cuban Institute for Friendship with Peoples and the Cuban Embassy in Moscow, since April 2019. Shkunov maintains regular contact with the Cuban embassy, which he talks about on social media. He has been directly involved in recruiting Cubans. He would approach them on social media, initially offering construction jobs and later asking whether they would like to join the Russian army, which, he stressed, pays very well. 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! Russian forces launched an artillery strike against the city of Kherson on the evening of Sept. 28, killing three women, the Prosecutor General's Office reported. According to the prosecutors, Russia carried out the attack against the city at 6 p.m., targeting residential districts and causing casualties in the streets. Two children who were present in the vicinity of the attack had been evacuated and examined by doctors, the Prosecutor General's Office said. The southern city of Kherson has suffered regular attacks by Russian forces since its liberation during Ukraine's counteroffensive last fall. Earlier on Sept. 28, two women and a man were injured in a Russian attack against Kherson's suburb Antonivka, according to Roman Mrochko, the head of the Kherson city military administration. Governor Oleksandr Prokudin also reported that on Sept. 27, Russian shelling killed a 41-year-old Kherson resident in his home and injured another man aged 27. Read also: As their kids find refuge abroad, Ukrainian fathers struggle with separation Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Russian forces launched an artillery strike against the town of Krasnohorivka in Donetsk Oblast on Sept. 28, killing two civilians and injuring three others, the Prosecutor General's Office reported. According to the prosecutors, Russia shelled the town at 12 p.m. local time using 152 mm artillery. Two men aged 47 and 54 were reportedly killed in the attack. A 60-year-old man and two women aged 45 and 61 suffered injuries as a result of the strike, the Prosecutor General's Office said. Krasnohorivka lies roughly 30 kilometers west of the occupied city of Donetsk. An hour later, Russian forces reportedly targeted yet another Donetsk Oblast town, Kostiantynivka, with KAB aerial bombs. The air strike resulted in the injuries of three men aged between 37 and 60. The bombing also damaged a commercial building, several multi-story residential buildings, houses, and a school, the prosecutors reported. The town of Kostiantynivka lies roughly 50 kilometers north of Donetsk and 20 kilometers west of Bakhmut. Read also: Why Ukraine likely wont hold elections next year Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Russia put up towers in Mariupol that track Ukrainians' digital activity, an advisor to the city's exiled mayor says. Petro Andryushchenko said that the Russians have installed 40 such towers across Mariupol. He described the Russian troops' activities as Orwellian. Russian troops have installed dozens of towers across the occupied city of Mariupol to surveil Ukrainian citizens' conversations and track their digital activity, Petro Andryushchenko, an advisor to Mariupol's exiled mayor, said. The Kyiv Post first reported on Andryushchenko's Telegram post about the surveillance towers. "This is equipment for monitoring conversations and Internet traffic of Mariupol residents," Andryushchenko wrote alongside a video. "This tower and this booth." The Russians are also using the towers for military communications, he wrote, adding that Russian troops have erected 40 such towers in Mariupol over the last three months. "Total control in action. Old Orwell would simply be amazed how all his fictions became the reality of Mariupol," Andryushchenko wrote, referring to "1984" author George Orwell. Andryushchenko's post comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin intensifies the pressure on his military leaders to make significant gains in the ongoing war against Ukraine. Citing an "insider" Telegram channel called Kremlin Secrets, the Institute for the Study of War said recently that Putin reportedly gave Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu "a deadline" of early October "to improve the situation on the frontlines, stop Ukrainian counteroffensives, and have Russian forces regain the initiative to launch an offensive operation against a larger city," like Kherson, Odessa, Kharkiv, or Dnepropetrovsk. The message posted to the Telegram channel said that Shoigu agreed to both of those demands and promised to make them happen. ISW said that if Putin's demand to dramatically improve Russia's standing on the frontlines is true, it could explain why Russian forces are launching frequent counterattacks even if they come at a steep cost to the Russian military. But The New York Times reported on Thursday that despite intense fighting and forceful offensives from both Russia and Ukraine, the front line of the war has hardly moved this year. Read the original article on Business Insider Russian forces have launched attacks on the settlements of Krasnohorivka and Kostiantynivka in Donetsk Oblast, killing two civilians and injuring six. Source: Donetsk Oblast Prosecutors Office Details: The investigation said that the Russians launched an attack, likely from 152-mm tubed artillery, on Krasnohorivka on 28 September at 12:00. Two men aged 47 and 54 were killed in the attack. Two women aged 45 and 62 and a 60-year old man suffered blast injuries. Just one hour later, the Russians launched an airstrike on Kostiantynivka, launching KAB-100 aviation bombs, early reports said. Three men aged 37 to 60 were injured in the explosions. They suffered fractures and lacerations. All the casualties were outdoors at the time of the attack. In addition, damage was caused to a retail unit, residential buildings, private houses and an educational institution. 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! Andrii Raikovych, Head of Kirovohrad Oblast Military Administration, has reported that a Russian Shahed drone attacked the oblast, but preliminary reports indicate that there are no casualties. Source: Andrii Raikovych, Head of Kirovohrad Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram Quote from Raikovych: "We survived an extremely difficult night. An enemy drone attack did not bypass Kirovohrad Oblast. Some of the Shahed drones over the region were destroyed. However, there were also hits." Details: Raikovych did not specify where exactly the attack took place, only saying that the relevant services were working at the scene. He added that there were "no casualties, injuries or damage to civil infrastructure". Background: 34 out of 44 Shaheds launched on the night of 27-28 September were destroyed in Ukraines airspace, and six reconnaissance drones were also shot down throughout the day. 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 Russian forces launched an attack on the city of Kostiantynivka in Donetsk Oblast on the afternoon of 28 September, injuring three people. Source: Suspilne with reference to a comment by Oleksii Roslov, head of the Kostiantynivka City Military Administration Quote: "At 12:50 there was a strike on a residential area in the city of Kostiantynivka. Preliminary reports show that three people have been injured in the attack, one of them is in critical condition." Details: Roslov stated that the Russians attacked the same district they had attacked last night and yesterday afternoon. The number of damaged buildings is so far unknown. The type of equipment used in the attack is being established. Background: Suspilne reports that this is the third attack on Kostiantynivka in the last two days. On Wednesday at 04:10, Russia dropped a KAB-500 guided bomb on the city. The same bomb was dropped on Kostiantynivka on the afternoon of 27 September. 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! Russian forces launched several groups of attack drones against Ukraine on the night of 27-28 September. The attack was massive, and anti-aircraft forces shot down over 30 drones. Source: Natalia Humeniuk, Head of the Joint Press Centre for Operational Command Pivden (South), during the national joint 24/7 newscast Quote: "The attack was massive, but the work of Air Defence was quite effective, with more than 30 drones destroyed. A more accurate figure will be reported by the General Staff and the Air Force." Details: Humeniuk added that the operational situation in the south is quite tense because the Russians do not stop attacking, pressuring and searching for new tactics, including using massive attacks like they did last night. Humeniuk also said that on 28 September, Ukraines air defence was responding along almost the entire southern front, in both Odesa and Mykolaiv oblasts, as well as further north in the central regions of Ukraine. Background: On the night of 27-28 September, an air-raid warning was issued in the southeastern Ukrainian oblasts due to the threat of the launch of Shahed attack drones. The air raid continued until almost 03:30, and Vitalii Kim, Head of Mykolaiv Oblast Military Administration, stated air defence might have downed a record number of drones last night. 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! Russian forces launched a missile attack on an infrastructure facility on the outskirts of Mykolaiv on the evening of 27 September. Source: Oleksandr Senkevych, Mayor of Mykolaiv, on Telegram Quote: "A missile hit an infrastructure facility on the city's outskirts at around 21:44 in Mykolaiv. Dry grass caught fire, but it was quickly extinguihsed." Details: Senkevych says there are no casualties. Background: Vitalii Kim, Head of Mykolaiv Oblast Military Administration, reported at 20:02 on 27 September that a drone had been shot down over Mykolaiv. The Air Force reported at 21:21 that Russian Shahed attack drones were heading from Kherson Oblast to Mykolaiv Oblast. Later, the media reported explosions in Mykolaiv. Senkevych called on residents not to film anything. 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! Ottawa (CNN) Speaker of the Canadian House of Commons Anthony Rota resigned his post Tuesday, days after he praised a Ukrainian veteran who fought for a Nazi military unit during World War II. On Friday, following a joint address to parliament by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Rota lauded Yaroslav Hunka, 98, as a Ukrainian-Canadian war hero who fought for Ukrainian independence against the Russian aggressors then, and continues to support the troops today. But in the days since, human rights and Jewish organizations have condemned Rotas recognition, saying Hunka served in a Nazi military unit known as the 14th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS. This house is above any of us, therefore I must step down as your speaker, Rota said in parliament Tuesday afternoon, reiterating his profound regret for my error. That public recognition has caused pain to individuals and communities, including the Jewish community in Canada and around the world, in addition to survivors of Nazi atrocities in Poland, among other nations, Rota, who is a member of the Liberal party, added. I accept full responsibility for my actions. Rotas recognition of Hunka last week prompted a standing ovation. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has called the incident deeply embarrassing. The 14th Waffen Grenadier Division was part of the Nazi SS organization declared a criminal organization by the International Military Tribunal in Nuremberg in 1946, which determined the Nazi group had committed war crimes and crimes against humanity. Jewish human rights organization Bnai Brith Canada in a statement condemned the Ukrainian volunteers who served in the unit as ultra-nationalist ideologues who dreamed of an ethnically homogenous Ukrainian state and endorsed the idea of ethnic cleansing. Recognizing Hunka was beyond outrageous, Bnai Brith Canada CEO Michael Mostyn said, adding, We cannot allow the whitewashing of history. Canadian soldiers fought and died to free the world from the evils of Nazi brutality, he said. Rota apologized in a statement Sunday and on the floor of parliament Tuesday, when he said he had become aware of more information which causes me to regret my decision to recognize this individual. Rota took full responsibility, saying it was his decision alone to acknowledge Hunka, who Rota said is from his electoral district. No one not even anyone among you, fellow parliamentarians, or from the Ukrainian delegation was privy to my intention or my remarks prior to their delivery, he said. This story was first published on CNN.com. "Canada House Speaker resigns after celebrating Ukrainian veteran who fought for Nazi unit in World War II" Russia is stepping up its attacks with Shahed-136 drones and is using a new generation of those weapons featuring warheads packed with tungsten balls, Ukrainian officials say. Overnight Thursday, Russia attacked with 44 Shaheds drones, all but 10 of which were destroyed in the air, the Ukrainian Air Force claimed on its Telegram channel. The Ukrainian Air Force said it shot down 34 of 44 Shahed drones launched Thursday. (Ukrainian Air Force Telegram) Thats the largest number of those drones used in a single attack this month, Reuters reported . It may be a record, Mykolaiv Oblast Gov. Vitalli Kim said Thursday on his Telegram channel. "Russians are using Shahed drones more intensively, Ukrainian Air Force spokesman Yuri Ignat said during a recent national television broadcast. Unfortunately, Russia now has the opportunity to manufacture its own. This is a new challenge against which we will respond. It is likely they will start attacking energy infrastructure again. https://twitter.com/noelreports/status/1707311161799041046?s=12\u0026t=BQRSNakUKt7_8ssZiGBW-A In recent days, Russia has used the Shaheds to conduct raids across Ukraine, but especially against port facilities on the Black Sea and Danube River , killing several civilians and damaging port and grain facilities as well as a landmark hotel . Thursdays attacks were far less effective than previous ones, Oleh Kiper, head of the Odesa regional military administration said on his Telegram channel. No hits and destruction, he said. There are no casualties. Only a few small [areas] of ignition of dry grass were recorded as a result of falling fragments of the drones, which were downed by air defenses, he said. In addition to using an increased number of these drones, Russia is using new models, Ukrainian officials say. Thats based on findings from the recovery of recently downed Shaheds. The latest generation of these drones were found to have new warheads, engines, batteries, servomotors and bodies, Capt. Andriy Rudyk, a representative of Ukraines Center for the Research of Trophy and Prospective Weapons and Military Equipment, said Thursday at a press briefing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CuIinD9It0 The new warheads contain tungsten balls for fragmented shrapnel, which is an upgrade over the Shahed-136's original blast fragmentation warhead configuration. Tungsten balls are also a design feature of U.S.-manufactured Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS) munitions fired by the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS and the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) provided to Ukraine. Driven by the force of the explosives, fragments, like ball bearings, widen the destructive area of the warheads and tungsten's high density penetrates better into whatever they hit, and do so with more force. Rudyk did not say what, if any, impact adding the tungsten balls to the Shahed warheads is having and none of the previously quoted Ukrainian officials even mentioned the new generation of drones. The new Shahed-136 drones have a warhead packed with tungsten balls, according to Ukraine. (Ukrainian Military Media Center screencap) Much of the rest of the changes do not alter the general characteristics of the drones, but appear to have been engineered to reduce the manufacturing cost to increase production volume, Rudyk said. The newer Shaheds have MicroPilot UAV Flight Control Systems MD550 gas-fueled engines instead of the Mado MD550 gas-fueled engines, said Rudyk. Russia is using Shahed-136 drones with a new warhead, engine, antenna, servo and other components, Ukraine says. (Ukrainian Military Media Center photo) The Mado MD550 gasoline-fueled engine used by older versions of the Shahed-136 drones. (Ukrainian Military Media Center photo) Rudyk did not address the source of the components. However, the MicroPilot engines are made in China while the Mado engines are made in Iran, according to the Institute for Science and International Security . On Wednesday, The Guardian published a story based on a Ukrainian document that showed drones used in the latest attacks on Ukrainian cities were filled with European components. The publication cites a 47-page document it obtained that was submitted by Ukraines government to the G7 governments in August. That document claimed there were more than 600 raids on cities using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) containing Western technology in the previous three months. According to the document, 52 electrical components manufactured by Western companies were found in the Shahed-131 drone and 57 in the Shahed-136 model, which has a flight range of 2,000km (1,240 miles) and cruising speed of 180kmh (111mph). There were five European companies, including a Polish subsidiary of a British multinational company, named as the original manufacturers of the identified components. Among the manufacturers are companies headquartered in the countries of the sanctions coalition: the United States, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Germany, Canada, Japan, and Poland, the document obtained by The Guardian reported. https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1706989357733732609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1706989357733732609%7Ctwgr%5E719d172bdb93c078971fb129557ec2bf8ccfbd38%7Ctwcon%5Es1_\u0026ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedrive.com%2Fthe-war-zone%2Fukraine-situation-report-pilots-train-on-commercial-f-16-simulators-at-home-bases Aside from the different engines, the latest Shaheds now use the Russian-made Kometa digital antennas for satellite navigation receivers in the navigation system designed to reduce the ability of enemy jamming. Its the same system Russia uses in its UMPK glide bombs . Russia has added the Kometa digital antenna guidance system to the Shahed-136 drones. (Ukrainian Military Media Center photo) They also use the new KST X30-12-165 servomotor, said Rudyk, who did not specify the make of the old servomotor. New Shahed-136 drones contain the new KST X30-12-165 servomotor, according to Ukraine. (Ukrainian Military Media Center screencap). There has also been a redesign to drone bodies. The new Shahed drones have composite bodies filled with solid foam-like material as opposed to modular bodies with a honeycomb cell-like structure. The new Shahed-136 drones have a composite body instead of a modular, one-piece fuselage, Ukraine says. (Ukrainian Military Media Center screencap) The new Shahed-136 drones also have a solid foam-like filling instead of the honeycomb cell filling, according to Ukraine. (Ukrainian Military Media Center screencap) Russian-made batteries are also included now, Rudyk said, adding that the use of these Russian components indicates Moscow is trying to rely more on domestic production. That's a similar analysis to one made in August by Ukraines Defense Intelligence (GUR) Directorate . At the time, the increased use of Russian components was considered an indication that Russia was moving closer to its goal of producing the deadly drones domestically, rather than by purchasing them outright from Iran, GUR Maj. Gen. Vadim Skibitsky said, according to the Ukrainian RBC news outlet . Earlier in August, we published new details about a Russian plan to domestically manufacture Iranian Shahed-136 drones , which Russia calls the Geran-2. The drones will be built in a facility 500 miles east of Moscow in the Tatarstan region with a goal of building 6,000 drones by summer 2025. You can read more about that in our story here . Previous data from the GUR indicate that the enemy planned to produce 1,300 units of the so-called Geran-2, RBC reported at the time. For them, it is planned to use components for both foreign and own production. However, in reality, Russia is not able to produce such a number of UAVs, Skibitsky noted. Thursday afternoon, GUR commander Lt. Gen. Kyrylo Budanov told us that to date, the majority of drones Russia is using are still being imported from Iran. Next month, Russia will get 280 Shaheds from Iran, Budanov noted. He did not have figures for September. It is the nature of conflict, especially this one, for weapons systems to undergo frequent improvement. Though Rudyk said most of the changes to the Shahed drones are cosmetic with no increase in performance, the fact that they now have tungsten balls in the warhead and a new guidance system likely means a very troublesome weapon has become even more dangerous. Add in the apparent increase in their availability and the threat level has increased on several levels. More Shaheds at its disposal also means Russia can continue to force Ukraine to expend its precious, and in most cases, far more expensive air defense munitions trying to shoot them down. A Shahed-136 costs about $20,000 a piece to make, The New York Times has stated. Meanwhile, a single donated AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) fired by donated National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) costs roughly between $500,000 and a $1 million , depending on the variant and when it was produced. That's a severe imbalance that only threatens to get worse as Russia ramps up its domestic production in the coming years. Having an ample supply of Shahed-136s also means Russia can keep up its aerial onslaught on Ukraine beyond the front lines without expending whatever cruise and short-range ballistic missiles it has left. The steady supply of Shaheds also means that, as the Ukrainian Air Force's spokesman posited, Russia will likely have another go at destroying Ukraine's energy infrastructure this winter in an effort to freeze out its populous. Shahed-136's rapid evolution, spurred by Russia's all-out invasion of Ukraine, has also likely accelerated the development of distinct iterations of the type. Just last week Iran unveiled a jet-powered Shahed-136. While it will suffer in range, it will be much faster and more survivable. https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1706641295412781562?s=20 Considering the long reach of the Shaheds is not necessary for many targets in Ukraine, the tradeoff could be a positive one in some circumstances. It will be interesting to see if jet-powered Shaheds end up on the battlefield in Ukraine anytime soon. Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com A jury has convicted a Sacramento County man who was wounded while exchanging gunfire with deputies in 2021 during a desperate attempt to escape after carjacking two vehicles and trying to steal two others, prosecutors said. Kevin Slaughter, now 46, of North Highlands, suffered critical injuries in the Christmas Eve shootout with the deputies in Carmichael. He was treated at a hospital and booked five days later at the Sacramento County Main Jail. This week, a Sacramento Superior Court jury found Slaughter guilty of robbery, attempted carjacking, assault with a semiautomatic firearm and two counts of carjacking, the Sacramento County District Attorneys Office announced Thursday in a news release. Slaughter also was convicted of attempted murder of a peace officer and three counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm on a peace officer. The Sacramento County Sheriffs Office in early February 2022 released edited and narrated video of the shootout, which included audio clips of 911 calls, dashboard camera video, body camera video and security camera video. First carjacking led to Christmas Eve shootout The events that led to the shootout in a busy Carmichael intersection began around 6 p.m. Dec. 24, 2021. The Sheriffs Office received a call from a man who reported he was victim of a carjacking. He said he was leaving work in the 9800 block of Business Park Drive in Rancho Cordova when a suspect pointed a gun at him and demanded the keys to his Ford Explorer. The suspect then drove away in the Ford Explorer and left the victim in the parking lot. Rancho Cordova police officers arrived at the scene and tracked the Ford Explorer using GPS to the intersection of Walnut and El Camino avenues in Carmichael. The Sheriffs Office is contracted to provide police services in Rancho Cordova. Sheriffs deputies went to an apartment complex in the 5100 block of El Camino Avenue and spotted the stolen Ford Explorer unoccupied in a parking lot. As the deputies began to create a perimeter around the apartment complex, a man matching the suspects description walked across the street in front of a deputys patrol vehicle. Other deputies arrived as the suspect, later identified as Slaughter, ran west on El Camino Avenue before attempting three carjackings at the intersection of Walnut and El Camino, sheriffs officials said. The video shows a patrol vehicle dashboard camera that captured the beginning of the shootout about 6:40 p.m. that night. Sheriffs officials said a deputy arrived at the intersection as Slaughter attempted the first carjacking and fired four gunshots at the deputy. Prosecutors said Slaughter tried to carjack a woman, but that attempt failed. Slaughter then ran to another car stopped at the intersection, but that carjacking attempt failed when he tried to open the drivers door and the driver sped off, according to the District Attorneys Office. The third carjacking attempt at the intersection was successful. Slaughter pointed the gun at the driver and three passengers in a Toyota Prius and ordered them to get out of the car, prosecutors said. Victims ducked their heads as gunfire was heard The sheriffs video shows the four occupants got out of the Prius moments before more gunshots were heard. They ran away, ducking their heads as the gunfire was heard. The video shows the Prius turned the corner and drove away shortly before deputies followed in their vehicles. The car chase ended shortly after, when the suspect drove into a nearby parking lot and got out of the Prius. Prosecutors said Slaughter then fired the gun at three deputies until his firearm was empty. The deputies returned fire, and Slaughter was hit once, according to the District Attorneys Office. The video shows Slaughter fell to the ground as the Prius continued moving forward on its own at a slow speed before coming to a stop. Sheriffs officials said deputies provided immediate aid to Slaughter until medics arrived and took him to a hospital. No deputies or bystanders were injured. The sheriffs video includes a photo of a stolen .40-caliber Glock 22 handgun recovered at the scene. Slaughter faces a maximum sentence of 369 years to life in prison. Prosecutors said Slaughter has two previous convictions of robbery and attempted robbery that are considered strikes under the Californias Three Strikes law. On Thursday, Slaughter remained in custody at the Sacramento County Main Jail. He is scheduled to return for his sentencing hearing Nov. 17 in Sacramento Superior Court. The city of Sacramento has paid a $400,000 settlement to an unarmed man shot by police more than 20 times during a 2021 incident. It started in February 2021 when Adan Martinez got an alert to come to the house of his childrens mother because his vehicle was on fire and his belongings were being burned, according to the federal lawsuit filed in July 2021. When he arrived, Martinez found the car in ashes and police waiting for him, and he drove away from the College/Glen residence, the lawsuit alleged. A 6-mile police chase took place. When Martinez tried to turn around in an industrial area on the 8500 block of Fruitridge Road, just east of Florin Perkins Road, a police vehicle struck the back of his minivan and then officers fired more than 20 shots into the windshield, hitting him nine times in the shoulder, arm, chest, pelvic area, stomach, hand and wrist. The lawsuit says the gunshots nearly killed him. Martinez was transported to the hospital where he underwent surgeries to remove the bullets and glass fragments. The lawsuit says Martinez has lost the use of his left hand in the wake of the injuries. According to a police account of that night, a woman called 911 to report her ex-boyfriend, against whom she had a restraining order, had burned their vehicle, threatened to kill her and was possibly armed. Police said at the time that Martinez had set the vehicle ablaze and had threatened the woman. As officers talked to her around 10 p.m. the night of Feb. 15, one officer spotted the suspect, later identified as Martinez, drive by in a minivan, according to police. After the chase, which reached speeds of 80 mph, video released by the department in the wake of the incident showed the officers shouting demands at Martinez. Officers told Martinez, Hands up! If you f------ move, you get shot! One officer warned the others, Hes putting the car in drive. As the officers shouted at Martinez, he began making a three-point turn and attempted to turn the minivan around. Police said two officers opened fire as the minivan moved forward. A bloodied Martinez eventually emerged from the car with his hands raised and was detained. Martinez was later charged with false imprisonment, arson, fleeing from a police officer, drug possession, stalking and violating a restraining order, according to Sacramento Superior Court records. He pleaded no contest to false imprisonment and fleeing from a police officer. The rest of the charges were dismissed. The settlement agreement, effective in February, was posted to the citys website last week. While Officer Nicholas Caro is an active duty officer, Eric Toomey is not, city spokesman Tim Swanson said. His last day was May 10, 2022. Its unclear whether Toomey was fired as a result of the shooting. The city determined it was appropriate to work with the plaintiff to reach a fair and reasonable agreement that resolved the issues and satisfied the involved parties, Swanson said. While the city has released video of the shooting, in two years it has not yet released any investigative or disciplinary documents, which could yield clues to the personnel action. On Tuesday, September 26, 2023, the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa, the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, and the National Congress of American Indians, represented by the Native American Rights Fund, jointly submitted an amicus curae (friends of the court) brief in support of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe in their ongoing case against the County of Mille Lacs, currently under consideration by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. The original lawsuit brought forth by the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe stemmed from disagreements concerning law enforcement responsibilities. For many years, the county and the tribal nation had maintained a collaborative policing agreement that acknowledged the tribal police's authority to enforce criminal laws and conduct investigations within the reservation. 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. When the county declined to renew this agreement, incidents of crime within the reservation escalated due to actions taken by the county to limit the jurisdiction of tribal law enforcement. The county contended that the Mille Lacs reservation had been disestablished and reduced in size, thereby asserting that tribal police were operating beyond their rightful jurisdiction. However, in March 2022, the District Court issued a comprehensive 93-page ruling affirming that the boundaries of the Mille Lacs reservation remained intact as established in an 1855 treaty. Subsequently, the county appealed this decision to the Eighth Circuit. The amicus brief initially contends that the matter is now rendered moot. Recent revisions to Minnesota state law have effectively resolved the dispute concerning tribal criminal jurisdiction. These amendments now explicitly acknowledge the concurrent jurisdiction of tribal nations and local county sheriffs in enforcing state criminal laws. Despite the mootness of the case, the amicus brief further elucidates that the District Court's ruling, supported by more than fifty years of legal precedent in state and federal courts, accurately affirmed the non-disestablishment of the Mille Lacs Reservation. Tribal nations steadfastly uphold their commitment to safeguarding their sovereignty, protecting their communities, and defending their treaty rights. Furthermore, these recent developments in Minnesota law serve to clarify and strengthen tribal jurisdiction, ensuring a safer and more self-reliant future for both Native and non-Native residents within Indian Country. The Native American Rights Fund takes pride in standing alongside Minnesota tribal nations and the broader Indian Country community in their collective effort to respond effectively to crime and violence in Indian Country. To read the amicus curiae brief, please visit the following link:https://www.narf.org/nill/documents/20230926amicus-mille-lacs-8th-circ.pdf 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 The Clark County Superior Court jury found 28-year-old Guillermo Raya Leon guilty Tuesday of aggravated first-degree murder in the death of Clark County sheriffs Sgt. Jeremy Brown, The Columbian reported. VANCOUVER, Wash. A jury has convicted a Salem man of murder in the fatal shooting of a sheriffs deputy in Washington state. The Clark County Superior Court jury found 28-year-old Guillermo Raya Leon guilty Tuesday of aggravated first-degree murder in the death of Clark County sheriffs Sgt. Jeremy Brown, The Columbian reported. Raya Leon was also convicted on charges of trafficking in stolen property, burglary, theft of a motor vehicle and two counts of having a stolen gun. The jury also found in favor of the aggravating factor that Raya Leon knew Brown was a law enforcement officer, along with a firearm enhancement on four of the counts. Aggravated murder carries a mandatory minimum sentence of life in prison. Raya Leon's sentencing was set for early October. Brown was shot on July 23, 2021, as he was doing surveillance in his unmarked SUV at an east Vancouver apartment complex. Law enforcement officers were investigating Raya Leon, his brother and his brothers wife in a case described by prosecutors as a conspiracy to steal dozens of firearms and thousands of ammunition rounds from a storage unit and then sell them. Defense attorney Therese Lavallee in court said Raya Leon did not intend to shoot Brown. Prosecutors said Raya Leon knew Brown was a law enforcement officer and that Raya Leon thought things over before confronting the detective and shooting him from behind. After the verdict, Lavallee said she respected the jury's decision. A jury in August convicted Raya Leons brother, Abran Raya Leon, of second-degree murder, possession of a stolen firearm and first-degree unlawful possession of a firearm. He was the getaway driver in the shooting, and a judge sentenced him to 27 years in prison. Misty Raya, who is married to Abran Raya Leon and is accused of initiating the firearms trafficking scheme, has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges and is scheduled for trial next month. This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Oregon man convicted of murder in fatal shooting of deputy SANFORD, Maine Matthew Toth pleaded guilty to two counts of unsworn falsification in connection with his attempts to raise campaign funds for his bid for the House District 143 seat in the Maine Legislature in 2022. Toth, 25, of Sanford, apologized to Justice Le-Anne Sutton for his criminal actions related to seeking Maine Clean Election Law funds from the state in his hearing at the York Judicial Center in Biddeford on Thursday, Sept. 28. I will never do something like this again, said Toth, dressed in a coat and tie. Im sorry about this. For his sentence, Toth will serve approximately 10 days of community service at Pine Tree Camp in Rome in Kennebec County, starting on Oct. 14. He will complete this sentence as an alternative to spending 10 days in York County Jail in Alfred. Matthew Toth, right, of Sanford, greets his attorney, Richard Berne, at York Judicial Center in Biddeford, Maine, on Sept. 28, 2023. Toth pled guilty to two counts of unsworn falsification related to his efforts to apply for campaign funds in 2022. In considering his sentence, Sutton said she took Toths youth, remorse, lack of any previous criminal history, and the complicated nature of campaign finance into account. Sutton also said she had received character references from individuals, on behalf of Toth. Attorney Richard Berne, representing Toth, described his client as a political novice, who had difficulty understanding the instructions and requirements of officially seeking campaign funds. Ultimately, he cut some corners, Berne said. Toth had been facing 13 additional counts, but Assistant Attorney General Leanne Robbin successfully made a motion to dismiss them. Those counts, all for aggravated forgery, were felonies and could have resulted in prison time and significant fines for Toth. Toth, a Republican, had sought the GOP nomination in the House District 143 race in 2022, but he withdrew before the state primary in June. Fellow Republican Ann Fredericks eventually became the party nominee and went on to win the seat in November, beating Democratic opponent Wes Davie. How Toth's crime was discovered According to Jonathan Wayne, the executive director of the states Commission on Governmental Ethics and Election Practices, his staff spotted irregularities in the contributor signatures on the form Toth submitted in the spring of 2022 for Maine Clean Election Act (MCEA) funding. The Commission staff concluded that signatures submitted for at least 12 contributors were not genuine, Wayne wrote in a memo summarizing the Toth case. Wayne said his staff interviewed nine contributors, or their spouses or domestic partners. As a result, the staff determined the signatures on Toths forms for seven contributors were not authentic that is, someone had forged the contributors signatures on the forms, Wayne wrote. Even more troublingly, it appeared that three of the people identified as contributors had not made a (qualifying contribution), Wayne added. Based on the commissions investigation, Toth was denied MCEA funding in April 2022. The commission brought its findings to the Office of the Maine Attorney General. From there, the AG investigated and successfully pursued an indictment of Toth. How Maine Clean Election funds work To qualify for public MCEA funds, candidates for the Maine House must collect qualifying contributions of $5 from at least 60 registered voters in the candidates district and submit them to the state by April 20 of the election year. Those who contribute $5 can do so by check, cash, or an online payment. They also must sign a form affirming they made the contribution and did so with their personal money. The contributors signature on the form is important to the integrity of the program because it verifies that a $5 contribution was actually made in support of the candidate, Wayne said in his memo. Every election year, approximately 200 candidates for the Maine Legislature seek MCEA funding, according to Wayne. Each contribution and its supporting document is examined by staff members of the commission. In our experience, fraud is rare, Wayne said. Almost all candidates qualify the right way and follow the rules. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Sanford man pleads guilty to Maine Clean Elections fraud in campaign Sarah J. Maas discussed her "Crescent City" series on "Live Talks Los Angeles" on Tuesday. She addressed theories regarding Bryce Quinlan's mate and whether or not Danika Fendyr is actually dead. This article contains spoilers for Sarah J. Maas' books. Sarah J. Maas addressed some hotly debated fan theories about her series "Crescent City" this week. On Tuesday, Maas appeared on "Live Talks Los Angeles" with Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings, the writing duo behind Christina Lauren 's books, to celebrate the paperback release of the second book in the "Crescent City" series, "House of Sky and Breath." During their conversation, Maas also discussed "House of Flame and Shadow," the third installment in the series, which is set to be released in January 2024. (The rest of this article contains spoilers for Maas' books). 'House of Flame and Shadow' will turn Maas' separate series into an interconnected universe At the end of the second book, protagonist Bryce Quinlan finds herself in Prythian, where "A Court of Thorns and Roses" is set, after opening a portal to escape the Asteri, evil overlords who rule her planet Midgard by feeding off its inhabitants' magic. Hunt Athalar, her partner, and her brother, Ruhn Danaan, were left behind and taken prisoner by the Asteri. "House of Flame and Shadow" will pick up where "House of Sky and Breath" left off, taking place in both Prythian and Crescent City as Bryce tries to find her way home while she is surrounded by the characters from "ACOTAR," including the protagonist Feyre and her mate Rhysand, according to Bloomsbury. "House of Flame and Shadow." Bloomsbury In the lead-up to the book's release, Maas' fans have been debating different theories about "Crescent City" on social media, speculating about everything from the extent of Bryce's power to her potential ancestral ties to characters in "ACOTAR." Readers will have to wait for the publication of "House of Flame and Shadow" to get answers to most of their questions, but Maas did shut down a few fan theories in her discussion with Hobbs and Billings. Maas confirmed that Bryce and Hunt are mates with a caveat Tuesday's "Live Talks" also included a rapid-fire question section based on fan submissions, and Maas' readers used the opportunity to ask about theories that have been circulating. First, Billings and Hobbs asked if Bryce and Hunt are actually mates something they began referring to each other as in "House of Sky and Breath." It's unusual for a protagonist in Maas' books to end up with the first person they are romantically involved with in the series, so fans have been suspicious about whether Bryce and Hunt are really endgame. Some even speculate that Azriel from "ACOTAR" may be her actual mate, as he is the one who finds her when she lands in Prythian. But Maas confirmed on "Live Talks" that Byrce and Hunt are mates. "Since this is a spoiler talk, I will say yes, he is her mate," Maas said. "They are mates." She went on to say that she wanted to surprise readers by making them mates since it's not her usual pattern as a writer. "I was like, you know what, I'm gonna do a real doozy on everyone, and I'm gonna have the love interest here be the one at the end if they both make it to the end," she said. However, Maas told Billings and Hobbs she was going to "pass" on answering whether or not "mate" means the same thing in "Crescent City" as it does in "ACOTAR," so it's possible Bryce and Hunt's connection isn't the same as the bond Feyre and Rhysand share. Maas also confirmed two character deaths During the same rapid-fire question session, Billings and Hobbs asked Maas if two characters were actually dead: Danika Fendyr and Connor Holstrom. Danika and Connor, shape-shifters who became wolves, were murdered in the first book. Danika was Bryce's best friend, and much of the plot of the first two books involves Bryce trying to uncover secrets Danika kept from her before her death. Danika and Connor died in "House of Earth and Blood." Bloomsbury Some fans have wondered if Danika is actually dead, so Billings and Hobbs asked Maas about it in the interview. She seemed a bit surprised by the question, but Maas confirmed Danika and Connor died. "She is dead, and as much as I wish she could be miraculously living, hiding out somewhere in secret, no, she is dead," Maas said of Danika. "The loss of that beautiful light in Bryce's life that's something it would feel cheap to me to suddenly be like, 'Oh, all your suffering doesn't matter.'" In the same rapid-fire section, Maas declined to confirm whether or not Emile Renast, the younger sibling of a powerful thunderbird Sofie Renast, actually has no powers. "House of Flame and Shadow" hits bookshelves on January 30, 2024. Read the original article on Insider (CNN) A fire tore through a wedding hall in Qaraqosh in northern Iraq on Tuesday, killing at least 100 people and injuring 150 others, prompting anger at the lack of safety measures at the venue. Fireworks were set off at the venue in the Hamdaniya district of northeast Nineveh governorate, the Iraqi Civil Defense said, and an investigative committee was formed to identify the cause of the incident. The hall did not meet safety criteria. Because of the fireworks the ceiling collapsed on the people in the hall, Interior Minister Abdul Amir al-Shammari told reporters on Wednesday. Justice will be served to those who were negligent, he added. Fourteen people were arrested in connection with the incident, Al-Shammaris office said in a statement on Wednesday, stressing that the results of the investigation will be announced within 72 hours. There were 1,300 guests when the blaze broke out, the Iraqi Joint Operations Command Spokesperson Major General Pilot Tahseen Al Khafaji told CNN. The groom, Rivan Esho and his bride Haneen, are both alive and in hospital receiving treatment, the father of the groom told CNN. I hold the owner of the hall responsible for what happened at the party because there are no extinguishers or safety measures in the hall, the father said. Survivors of the blaze were transferred to hospitals in Nineveh and the nearby Kurdistan region, Nineveh governor Najm Al-Jubouri told Iraqi state news agency INA. He said the final death and injury toll is yet to be determined. Iraqis have been protesting across the country against corruption, unemployment and a lack of basic services including electricity and clean water as the country has failed to achieve stability following decades of sanctions and war. In 2019, hundreds of people died in violent protests demanding better living conditions across Iraq. Negligence by authorities has led to a lack of safety measures amid reconstruction efforts following years of conflict. The wedding hall where the fire broke out was covered with highly flammable Ecobond panels that violated safety instruction requirements, according to the Iraqi Civil Defense, INA reported. The fire led to the collapse of parts of the hall as a result of the use of highly flammable, low-cost building materials that collapse within minutes when fire breaks out, the Iraqi Civil Defense said in a statement. The bride and groom are fine Videos from the scene in Qaraqosh show thick smoke billowing out of the Al Haytham Wedding Hall while crowds and ambulances gather outside the venue. A wedding guest told local media the bride and groom were devastated by the disaster. The bride and groom are fine. I was just with them now, but their condition is devastating due to what happened to people here, the guest told private Iraqi channel Alawla TV. Injured guests were also transferred to hospitals in the nearby cities of Mosul, Erbil and Duhok, Nader Salm, a 49-year-old translator from Qaraqosh, told CNN. There are hundreds of people injured, we are in need of blood, Salm said. This tragedy hurt us more than ISIS. At least when ISIS came we could escape, but now a wedding became a graveyard for us. Salm added that he has relatives who were injured and killed in the fire, while others are unaccounted for. Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa Al-Sudani has instructed his cabinet to assist those affected by the fire, according to a statement from his office. The Iraqi leader has been in touch with the Nineveh governor by telephone about the incident and ordered a full mobilization to aid the victims, according to his office and INA. The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq expressed its condolences to family members of those killed and injured Tuesday, calling the incident an immense tragedy. Shocked and pained by the horrible loss of life and injuries in the fire, the mission said on X, formerly known as Twitter. The Iraqi government issued a three-day national mourning period following the blaze. ISIS invaded Qaraqosh in August 2014 during its years-long grip on power in northern Iraq, triggering an exodus of refugees. The group launched numerous assaults on the predominantly Christian town, destroying much of the infrastructure and leaving it in ruins. Qaraqosh was liberated by US-backed Iraqi forces in October 2016. This story was first published on CNN.com. "Wedding became a graveyard. At least 100 killed as fire rips through party in Iraq" (Bloomberg) -- German Chancellor Olaf Scholz played down fears of a potential trade war triggered by the European Unions anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese electric vehicles, while making a strong case for globalized markets with a level playing field for all participants. Most Read from Bloomberg In his first comments on the EVs probe since it was announced two weeks ago, Scholz appeared to pour cold water on the European Commissions move, and warned against protectionist measures that could harm domestic industries. When the possibility of an EUChina trade war was broached, he said: Obviously that will not happen. We want to sell our cars in in Europe, in North America, in Japan, in China, in Africa, in South America, in all the places, he said Thursday in a discussion with Bloombergs Stephanie Flanders at the Berlin Global Dialogue. But this means that we are also open to get the cars from other countries on the German market, he added. Now there are German cars in Korea, and Korean cars in Germany what is the problem? Germany stands to be the country most affected in the EU in the event of a tit-for-tat tariff dispute with China. If levies are imposed, Beijings most powerful response would be to restrict access to its vast market something that would hit German automakers including Volkswagen AG and BMW AG hardest as they collectively sold 4.6 million cars there last year. China initially reacted aggressively to the Sept. 13 announcement by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, calling it a naked act of protectionism. That stoked concerns about a potential trade war but they eased after a subsequent trip to China by the EUs Valdis Dombrovskis. During the Trade Commissioners visit, President Xi Jinpings government avoided the kind of rhetoric that could endanger an economic relationship worth $900 billion, while Vice Premier He Lifeng agreed to set up several working groups, including on financial services and trade. Earlier, the head of the body that represents EU heads of state and government, also sought to dial down any apparent tension with China on the EVs issue. Europe is not spoiling for a trade war and is instead focusing on a rebalancing to avoid excessive reliance on one country, Charles Michel, the president of the European Council, said in an interview with Bloomberg Television on the sidelines of the Berlin meeting. Wed like to rebalance our relationship with China to address critical vulnerabilities, Michel said. Its never good when youre so dependent on one country. Following the invasion of Ukraine by Kremlin forces last year, Europe had learned its lesson from becoming over-reliant on Russia for fossil fuels and was now applying that to its relationship with China, he added. Within the EU theres a common view, common vision that we need to rebalance our economic relationship, address our vulnerabilities. We are engaging a lot with China and Im confident that we can protect the European interest. (Updates with Scholz comments starting in first paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. During Wednesday's Republican debate, there was one thing that just about every candidate could agree on: School choice is a great policy, and more school choice will help pull American schoolchildren out of their post-COVID test score slump. "We need to make sure that we have school choice so there's competition," said former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley. "We need to move all the programs from the federal government down to the states, and let states decide what education looks like." When asked about his record on education in New Jersey, former Gov. Chris Christie bragged about creating "more charter schools and more Renaissance schools and more public school choice." "We didn't just talk about universal school choice," boasted Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. "We enacted universal school choice." Except no one defined what school choice is. While it's a good sign that school choice is getting so much airtime, it risks becoming just another political buzzword if Republicans don't explain what it actually means and which school choice policies they support. School choice can be used to describe just about any policy that makes it easier for parents to send their children to schools other than their local zoned public schools. School choice can range from conservative proposals like open-enrollment policies, in which parents can enroll their children in other school districts if those districts have extra seats, to expansive measures in Florida's law, which lets all families who opt out of public schools get a cut of the funds that would have gone to local schools to use toward private school tuition. Forty-three states have open enrollment, though some make it prohibitively difficult for parents to participate. Forty-five states allow charter schools (publicly funded and tuition-free schools that are privately run), and 15 states have private school vouchers, though most programs are means-tested. Poor and middle-class families should have a chance to do what wealthy families have always done: choose where their children go to school. And when you force public schools to compete with other options, it pushes them to improve their offerings and better serve their students. Since pandemic-era school closures, that sell has been even easier to make. Not only has homeschooling increased by 30 percent immediately following the pandemic (with private schools experiencing more modest gains), but high-profile efforts to enact generous voucher programs have been successful in Florida and Arizona. As a result, national support for the concept of "school choice" is high. Recent polling by the American Federation for Children found that 71 percent of Americans support the concept of school choice, including 66 percent of Democrats. While supporting school choice is clearly a winning strategy for Republicansand Democratsgoing beyond vague platitudes will help more Americans take their positive view of the concept out of the abstract and into statehouses. The post School Choice Gets Lip Service at Republican Debate appeared first on Reason.com. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) on Thursday accused Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) of going back on his word by abandoning the funding levels he agreed to when he and President Biden struck a deal to raise the debt limit. Remember, bipartisan majorities agreed to funding levels back in June. The leaders of the House, the Senate, the White House, we all shook hands on this deal, but now the Speaker, and only the Speaker, is going back on his word, Schumer said on the Senate floor. As a result, Schumer argued, Speaker McCarthy has made a shutdown far more likely. Despite the fact that here in the Senate were pursuing bipartisanship, the Speaker has chosen to elevate the whims and desires of a handful of hard-right extremists and has nothing to show for it, Schumer said. Biden and McCarthy agreed in May to set the nondefense and defense discretionary spending cap at $1.59 trillion, but the Speaker is preparing to move a House GOP-drafted continuing resolution that would be more in line with the $1.47 trillion spending top line demanded by members of the House Freedom Caucus. McCarthy has been forced to delay consideration of a short-term House Republican-drafted proposal to extend government funding beyond Sept. 30, and two earlier attempts to pass a defense appropriations bill were foiled by House conservatives who demanded steep cuts to federal spending. The Speaker made some progress earlier this week when the House narrowly approved a rule to set up votes on four appropriations bills funding the departments of Defense, State, Agriculture and Homeland Security. Schumer criticized McCarthy and the House Republican leadership for stripping money for Ukraine out of the House Defense appropriations bill even though a majority of House lawmakers favor providing more money for Ukraine. We saw glaring examples last night, on the floor of the House, the House voted twice, with overwhelming bipartisan majorities, to keep Ukraine funding in the House Defense appropriations bill. Each time, with over 330 votes, a majority of both Democratic and Republican members. And yet, after the vote, the House leader subverted the will of the House by going to the Rules Committee and cut the aid to Ukraine anyway, Schumer said. He was referring to two amendments that failed on the House floor Wednesday, one that would have stripped $300 million in money for Ukraine from the Defense spending bill and another that would have blocked additional funding for Ukraine. The Rules Committee, however, convened an emergency meeting to take Ukraine funding out of the Defense bill, despite the failure of the amendments. Speaker McCarthy is letting a small band of very extreme members override the views of everyone else, Schumer said. If were forced to abandon Ukraine by a handful of extreme people who seem to have no sense of the reality of the world, we will pay a price for years to come. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), the only Black candidate running for the Republican presidential nomination, has sparked a debate around former President Lyndon B. Johnsons Great Society and the impact it has had on Black Americans. During the second GOP presidential debate Wednesday, Scott criticized Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis for his states education policies, which require students to learn that slavery had a personal benefit for slaves because they developed skills. There is not a redeeming quality in slavery, Scott said, adding that America has suffered from slavery. But America has overcome slavery, Scott said, and it stands as the greatest country in the world for facing its demons. So often we think that all the issues you talk about crime and education and health care we always think that those issues go back to slavery. Heres the challenge, though. Black families survived slavery. We survived poll taxes and literacy tests. We survived discrimination being woven into the laws of our country, Scott said. What was hard to survive was Johnsons Great Society, where they decided to put money where they decided to take the Black father out of the household to get a check in the mail. And you can now measure that in unemployment and crime and devastation. Johnsons Great Society was a series of initiatives with goals including ending poverty, reducing crime and eliminating inequality. It was the largest social reform plan in history, with investments into education, hospital care and the expansion of Social Security. It also worked to enforce the 1964 Civil Rights Act, specifically removing barriers to voting. Its long been a target of voices on the right. Speaking to Foxs Sean Hannity on Hannity after the second GOP presidential debate, former National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow called Scott an inspiration for his comments. I got to give Tim Scott a lot of credit because he did this riff on Blacks, African Americans, somehow surviving through slavery and then went on to say that the Great Society of LBJ and all the Democratic presidents since then, have made the Black situation worse, not better, Kudlow said. Hannity added that it was a powerful moment, which Kudlow agreed with. Whether he wins or loses or draws, that was something to behold, Kudlow said. Hes very inspiring to say that kind of thing. The data, the evidence shows that Sen. Tim Scott is absolutely right. The worst thing to happen to minority groups and African Americans in particular in this country in the last 100 years was the Great Society. Some, however, quickly took issue with Scotts comments. The Second Middle Passage ALONE broke up about 1/3 of Black marriages. But, yes, anti-poverty program are the problem, Nikole Hannah-Jones, author of The 1619 Project, wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. Scotts comments drew praise from other conservatives, however. Horace Cooper, chairman for the Black conservative Project 21, commended Scott for reminding the audience that the Great Society has done more to destroy black families than slavery and Jim Crow were able to do. Cooper said that while discrimination and poll taxes were high hurdles indeed they were unbelievably unfair and unjust, the Black community was seeing successes in the early 20th century. At the start of the 20th century not even 50 years after the end of slavery black men were more employed than any other groups, Cooper said in a statement to The Hill. From 1900 1960 Black children were more likely to be born and live in 2 parent households than the population at large. The benefits of that strong family meant that record numbers of Blacks were able to buy homes and automobiles. Furthermore, as Thomas Sowell has regularly pointed out, notwithstanding the devastating results of the Great Depression Black families made financial progress faster than the U.S. population at large prior to the Great Society. Tragically the Great Society all but devastated the Black family and a host of ills have followed, Cooper continued. Lest anyone be confused, the same effects of the Great Society on blacks are being felt among all other groups. Blacks have been like the canary in the coal mine. The destructive effects of big government social programs continue harming all Americans today. Some of Scotts rhetoric on Wednesday followed previous statements from other candidates, including entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, who has said the government pays inner-city women to be single mothers. The only Black Republican in the Senate, Scott grew up in a single-parent household and has spoken previously about coming from cotton to Congress. He has also pushed back against arguments around race, including arguments around systemic racism. Scotts words, while praised by some, were met with backlash from other prominent Black thinkers. Hannah-Jones denounced them. Also, just to be absolutely crystal clear, NOTHING Black people have experienced in this country is worse than slavery, she tweeted, adding that Scott was simply trying to win over Trump voters. Former President Trump was not at Wednesdays debate. Btw, a lot of people did not survive slavery, Tim Scott, Hannah-Jones said. A lot of people did not survive poll taxes and were murdered for trying to vote. A lot of Black folks died for lack of healthcare and still do see Black women and maternal health in your own state. Even some members of Scotts party rejected his comments. Michael Steele, former chairman of the Republican National Committee, tweeted his disappointment with just one word: Tim. Later, speaking to MSNBCs Rachel Maddow, Steele called Scotts comments a load of crock. Black man sitting up there talking about theres no racism, Steele said. Discrimination but no racism? Steele added that the entire debate was a national embarrassment and a political embarrassment for the Republican Party. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. SAN DIEGO San Diego Gas & Electric customers are expected to see a reduction in their energy bills next month with the distribution of another installment of state climate credits. On Wednesday, SDG&E announced that the final credit for this year will be applied to electricity statements in October, with each household expected to receive about $60.70 to put towards their bill. The climate credits are a biannual benefit given to millions of ratepayers as a part of Californias Greenhouse Cap-and-Trade program, which creates an economic incentive for investor-owned utility companies to invest in clean energy as a means of emission mitigation. Auditor concerned with CA regulators monitoring of energy rate hikes Companies are allotted a certain number of emission allowances, representing one ton of greenhouse gases they are allowed to emit, that is based on a statewide cap set by state energy officials. According to the California Public Utilities Commission, investor-owned utility companies are then allowed to sell those allowances if they have taken additional steps to cut emissions below the cap to companies that pollute more. Funds generated by the market for buying and selling permitted emissions can then be distributed as credits to residential customers, small businesses, industry or be put towards clean energy programs. Usually, these credits are distributed twice a year, in April and October, according to the CPUC. Ratepayers receive two climate credits in April one for natural gas and another for electricity and a third electric climate credit in October. This year, however, a particularly cold winter prompted state energy officials to accelerate the timeline, distributing the first rounds of climate credits in February or March. With the two earlier installments for electric and gas credits, SDG&E customers will have received up to $164.80 for the year. Compared to other investor-owned utility companies, SDG&E customers will be receiving the second highest credit amount next month, according to CPUC estimates. It comes behind Southern California Edison, which is distributing $71 credits. We appreciate working collaboratively with the California Public Utilities Commission to distribute the Climate Credit and offer some financial relief to our customers, SDG&E Vice President of Customer Services Dana Golan said in a release. SDG&E customers could see reduced rates next year There is no action required to receive the credit. All electricity customers, including community choice aggregation customers, will automatically receive the funds in their upcoming billing. SDG&E will also alert customers to the Climate Credit via email, the utility company said. While the credits will bring some much needed relief to local ratepayers, those who still may be struggling to pay their bills are encouraged to visit SDG&Es website to explore available resources for assisting with utility costs. Anyone struggling to pay their bill is encouraged to reach out to us, Golan added. Were here to help connect them with financial assistance programs. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. Authorities have launched the search for two suspects after they brazenly stole a womans dog early Tuesday morning. Information from a Los Angeles Police Department release indicates that officers with the North Hollywood Division responded to a radio call of a robbery in the 11000 block of Burbank Boulevard just after 12:45 a.m. The investigation revealed that a victim entered the business with her dog on a leash, LAPD said in a release. Shortly after, two suspects entered the business and, seemingly unprovoked, attacked the victim and used bodily force to remove the dog from her possession. The dog has been identified as an 11-year-old Pitbull-Rhodesian Ridgeback mix named Drake. (LAPD) The dog has been identified as an 11-year-old Pitbull-Rhodesian Ridgeback mix named Drake. (LAPD) The dog has been identified as an 11-year-old Pitbull-Rhodesian Ridgeback mix named Drake. According to photos released by the LAPD, Drake has a zig-zag mark on his back. The suspects have been described as a Black female wearing a black shirt and ripped black jeans with black shoes and a Hispanic man wearing a black and white sweater with blue jeans and white shoes. Search underway for suspects who forcibly stole dog from woman in North Hollywood Anyone with information on the suspects and/or Drakes whereabouts is urged to contact North Hollywood Robbery Detectives Noah Stone and Chris Phillips at 818-754-8424. Southern California city becomes first in nation to recognize legal rights of nonhuman animals During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-527-3247. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or by visiting their website at www.lacrimestoppers.org For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. This story has been updated The second man accused of sexually abusing and torturing two female children with his brother over a seven-year span roughly two decades ago in Whatcom County has been arrested in southern Montana. Aaron Joseph Drake, 33, was arrested Sunday, Sept. 24, and booked into the Yellowstone County Detention Facility in Billings, Montana, where he currently remains. A nationwide extraditable warrant for Aaron Drakes arrest was issued Thursday, Sept. 21, out of Whatcom County, The Bellingham Herald previously reported. Whatcom County prosecutors charged Aaron Joseph Drake and Brian Matthew Drake, who are brothers, with 37 crimes between the two of them last week all but one of which are felonies and all but two of which are sex crimes, according to Whatcom County Superior Court records. Brian Matthew Drake, 31, of Bellingham, was charged Sept. 21 with six counts of first-degree child molestation, three counts of first-degree child rape, three counts of first-degree incest, three counts of indecent liberties, one count of second-degree rape by forcible compulsion, one count of second-degree assault, one count of third-degree rape, one count of attempted first-degree child rape, one count of attempted third-degree rape, one count of voyeurism, and one count of intimidating a witness. Aaron Joseph Drake, 33, of Billings, Montana, was also charged Sept. 21 with four counts of first-degree child molestation, two counts of first-degree child rape, two counts of first-degree incest, two counts of second-degree child rape, one count of second-degree child molestation, one count of third-degree child rape, one count of indecent liberties, one count of voyeurism, and one count of attempted first-degree child rape. Brian Drake was arrested at his Bellingham residence on Sept. 19. He currently is in the Whatcom County Jail in lieu of $350,000 bail with no cash alternative, which was set at his first appearance in court on Sept. 20. A sexual assault protection order was put in place between Brian Drake and the two victims, who are now adults. If Brian Drake posts bond and is released from custody, he will not be allowed to have contact with anyone under the age of 18. His arraignment was scheduled for Sept. 29. Aaron Drake was arrested Sunday, Sept. 24, in Billings, Montana, three days after a nationwide extraditable warrant was issued for his arrest. Yellowstone County Detention Facility officials confirmed Thursday, Sept. 28, that Aaron Drake was arrested Sunday on the Washington state warrant. He made his first appearance in Yellowstone County Justice Court on Monday, Sept. 25. He refused to waive extradition at the hearing, meaning he did not consent to be voluntarily transferred from Montana to Washington. The state of Washington has until Oct. 25 to request a governors warrant of extradition for Aaron Drake, but can request a 60-day extension, according to Chief Deputy Yellowstone County Attorney Christopher Morris. In between that time, Aaron Drake could decide to waive extradition; to challenge identification, arguing that he is not the person Washington state is seeking, or Washington state could drop the extradition warrant, Morris told The Herald by email. The Whatcom County prosecutors office said it is seeking a governors warrant to extradite Aaron Drake, according to Whatcom County Senior Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Gordon Jenkins. Its something thats a relatively high priority for us, Jenkins said Thursday, Sept. 28. Aaron Drake is currently incarcerated in the Yellowstone County Detention Facility in lieu of $500,000 bond, which was set at his first court appearance in Montana last week. A second man has been charged in connection with a Rockford homicide last year. The Winnebago County State's Attorney's office filed first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder charges against Tyree Scott, 26, of Rockford. The charges stem from a shooting near 11th Street and 6th Avenue in April 2022. Deontay Turner, 19, died from his injuries in the shooting, according to police. Scott is the second person to be charged in connection to this homicde. More: Police: Rockford man wanted for 2022 homicide arrested in Florida Earlier this year, Rockford police announced the arrest of Dylan Denham, 26, who was arrested in Lee County, Florida and charged with first-degree murder. Police said Scott is already in custody on unrelated charges. Police have not said if there are any other suspects in the shooting. This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Rockford man Tyree Scott charged in 2022 fatal shooting Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias this week filed administrative rules that would increase the age at which a driver is required to pass a driving test when they renew their license, raising it from 75 to 79. The rules proposed by Giannoulias to the legislative Joint Committee on Administrative Rules would keep in place a state policy that went into effect during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the pandemic, lawmakers in Springfield temporarily modified several requirements for driver's licenses to ease strain on the secretary of states office, which oversees driver services facilities. That included the age increase for required driver tests. But that policy was scheduled to expire on Oct. 1, so Giannoulias office filed emergency rules to extend it beyond that date, along with identical permanent rules. That rulemaking committee's next regular meeting is planned for Oct. 17 in Chicago, at which point it can determine whether to leave the rules in place, request changes or file an objection. Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias This change would make Illinois driving standards for senior drivers more consistent compared to other states while keeping Illinois as one of the strictest states for license renewals, Giannoulias said in a Wednesday news release. Under the pandemic-era policy and the rules proposed by Giannoulias, all drivers aged 78 and younger must renew their licenses every four years. At age 79, drivers must complete a driving test as part of that process. State policies for those age 79 and older would not change under Giannoulias proposed rules. Drivers age 81 to 86 must renew their license and take a vision and driving test every two years, and drivers age 87 and older must renew their license and take those tests every year. Illinois is the only state in the country that has a driving test requirement for people over a certain age. Illinois also requires more frequent drivers license renewals for people over age 80, something only 23 states require. The change will affect approximately 3 percent of Illinois driving population, according to the secretary of states office. As part of the temporary change, the secretary of states office issued a report on driving safety among older drivers, which found that drivers aged 75 years and older were involved in fewer crashes even after the temporary rule change went into effect than those aged 16 to 69 years. When it comes to total crashes, individuals who are aged 75 and older consistently experienced lower crash rates compared to nearly every other age group, according to the report. Age-related requirements for drivers have been a longtime issue for AARP Illinois, an advocacy group that represents the interests of those over age 50. More: In joint effort, Illinois election authorities try to tamp down misinformation Age alone is not determinative of driving performance Ryan Gruenenfelder, outreach and advocacy manager at AARP Illinois, told Capitol News Illinois. Gruenenfelder said AARP receives complaints about age-related requirements for drivers, noting they make competent drivers feel targeted for their age. He said the organization will continue to work with the secretary of states office and advocate for using a persons mobility or indicators of driving behavior to trigger possible driving test requirements, regardless of age. But Gruenenfelder said AARP commends Giannoulias for his recommendation this week. The group also approves of Giannoulias September action to move the states busiest driver services facilities to an appointment-based model, as well as this weeks announcement that two new facilities targeted to senior drivers will offer walk-in services. Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of print and broadcast outlets 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. s This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Illinois could end behind-the-wheel testing for some older drivers Seoul, South Korea (CNN) North Korea has amended its constitution to bolster and expand its nuclear force, with leader Kim Jong Un pointing to the growing cooperation between the United States, South Korea and Japan as the worst actual threat facing the isolated nation. The countrys rubber stamp parliament added the law into North Koreas constitution after two days of meetings, meaning its policy of strengthening its nuclear force is now permanent, the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Thursday. The move reinforces North Koreas view that it is a forever nuclear power and that the idea of denuclearizing or giving up its weapons, a key demand of the US and its Western allies, is not up for discussion. It was passed by North Koreas Supreme Peoples Assembly (SPA), where leader Kim Jong Un addressed participants and called the move a historical event that provided a powerful political lever that boosts national defense capabilities and protects national interests. Kim also justified Pyongyangs accelerating weapons development program by pointing to the trilateral military cooperation between the United States, South Korea and Japan which he called the worst actual threat, not threatening rhetoric or an imaginary entity, KCNA reported. He added that the new law was the most just and reasonable crucial step which fully meets not only the urgent requirements of the present era but also the lawfulness and the long-term requirements of building a socialist country. The KCNA report came just days after North Koreas ambassador to the United Nations, Kim Song, addressed the UN General Assembly on Tuesday. The ambassador claimed Pyongyang had needed to build up its self-defense capabilities because of imminent danger of nuclear war on the Korean Peninsula, accusing the US of spreading its influence in the region. And earlier this month Kim Jong Un met with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin during a six day visit that alarmed the West over the potential for military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang. Prior to the trip, US officials warned that North Korea could provide Russia with weaponry to aid its stuttering invasion of Ukraine, and in return receive help with its own nuclear weapons and missile program. During the meeting, Putin accepted Kims invitation to visit North Korea, according to the Kremlin. It said Russias Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is also set also visit North Korea in October. Push for denuclearization The latest constitutional amendment follows a similar move last year at an SPA meeting, where North Korea passed a bill declaring the country a nuclear weapons state. At the time, Kim vowed that there would be no denuclearization or any negotiations on denuclearization and the new law appears the final nail in the coffin, with relations between North Korea and its rivals having deteriorated steadily in recent years. North Koreas last nuclear test, its sixth so far, took place in 2017 amid escalating threats from Pyongyang and Washington. The test came just a month after then-President Donald Trump famously warned that any further threats from North Korea would be met with fire and fury like the world has never seen. Testing came to a halt in 2018 as the two leaders held talks and relations thawed, raising hopes for a potential deal on denuclearization. But after several summits between Trump and Kim including an extraordinary moment where Trump became the first sitting US leader to step inside North Korea talks fell apart, and no deal materialized. The Covid-19 pandemic likely also delayed the resumption of North Koreas weapons development program, experts say but it came roaring back in 2022, with the country firing a record number of missiles, and satellite imagery showing renewed activity at its underground nuclear test sites. The tests have also seen US, South Korea and Japan draw closer together, with the leaders of all three nations meeting earlier this summer at the Camp David retreat in Maryland, where they announced new military exercises and a new annual trilateral summit. It heralded a new era of cooperation, said US President Joe Biden after the summit which was strongly condemned by Pyongyang, with North Korean state media releasing images of Kim inspecting a missile test just days afterward. This story was first published on CNN.com. "North Korea amends constitution to bolster nuclear power status, calls US and allies worst threat" A section of U.S. Route 322 in Clearfield County experienced traffic delays Thursday afternoon due to a crash. A crash in the 6500 block of Philipsburg Bigler Highway (Route 322) in Boggs Township occurred around 2:30 p.m. Thursday. There was a lane closed between Baughman Road and Wallaceton Road, according to 511PA, Pennsylvanias official travel information service. By 4:15 p.m., lanes had reopened, 511PAs map showed. In a Facebook post, the Hope Fire Company out of Philipsburg said responding units reported a significant backlog in the area and to expect delays. Initial dispatch advised of multiple vehicles involved, the post states, adding that there were injuries reported. For the latest on traffic updates and information, visit www.511pa.com. Park rangers talk to protesters before they enter Zion National Park as an act of civil disobedience during the government shutdown on Oct. 5, 2013. | McKenzie Romero, Deseret News Ahead of a possible federal government shutdown, Utahs Sen. Mike Lee and Rep. John Curtis are sponsoring a bill that would require the Secretary of the Interior to pay states back for what they spend to operate national parks during a government shutdown. Lee introduced the bill in the Senate Wednesday, while Curtis will introduce the House version of the bill. If the bill passes, Utah and other states that want to keep their national parks open wouldnt have to foot the bill. Instead, 30 days after the shutdown ends, the Secretary of the Interior would pay states back for what they spent to keep their parks open. Along with introducing the bill, Lee sent a letter to Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland. Related As the end of Fiscal Year 2023 approaches, I am deeply concerned about the looming possibility of a government shutdown, Lee wrote. This potential shutdown threatens the livelihoods of countless Utahns who rely on the economic benefits generated by our National Parks. In the letter, Lee talked about the far-reaching impact of shutting down the parks. The potential harm of park unit closure extends beyond the economic sphere. It also threatens the long-term environmental preservation efforts in these areas. park unit closure could result in inadequate protection and management, potentially leading to irreversible environmental degradation. Lee urged Haaland to pay back Utah if it uses state funds to keep national parks areas open. If an Act of Congress is required, I ask that you support the legislation to facilitate this reimbursement and work with me and my colleagues to ensure that passage of this legislation is prioritized, Lee wrote. Ahead of introducing the House version of the bill, Curtis sent a statement to the Deseret News explaining his support. Clearly weve seen in the past the impact to a state like Utah if the national parks shut down. We also clearly see a loss of revenue to the federal government. This is one of those examples of a shutdown that will cost us money, he said. It makes all the sense in the world to keep these parks open, and let the visitors have that visitors experience, protect Utahs economy, but also protect the revenue to the federal government, Curtis said. So this was an easy decision about whether or not this is a bill I like because of all those reasons. In his statement to the Deseret News, Curtis referenced his No Work, No Pay Act, which he introduced for the third time since he has been in office on Friday. This bill would prevent members of Congress from being paid during a government shutdown. Related Can you imagine shutting down a park in Utah, people who own hotels and restaurants and things and have no ability to impact that decision, taking it on the chin financially, and members of Congress are back here getting paid during that period of time? Its just unconscionable to me, Curtis said. When a government shutdown became increasingly more likely, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox started working with Utah House Speaker Brad Wilson and Utah Senate President Stuart Adams to keep the parks open. Calling national parks the lifeblood of some Utah communities, Cox said he believes they can keep parks open with existing funds without having to call a special session. So thats the track that we are taking right now. During a previous government shutdown from December 2018 to January 2019 (the longest shutdown in history), Utah spent $66,000 to keep the parks open, per KSL TV. Its unclear how much Utah would have to spend this time around. Some counties are almost over 90% owned by the federal government. You shut down the national parks, it destroys their entire economy, Adams said. If the Department of the Interior will let us, were not going to let that happen. Well keep the parks open like we did last time. Contributing: Brigham Tomco Washington Days after relaxing its unofficial dress code, the Senate passed a resolution requiring business attire when senators are on the floor of the chamber. The change follows a recent decision by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer , a Democrat of New York, to stop enforcing the unofficial requirement and allow members to wear casual attire on the Senate floor. But Schumer noted he would continue to wear a suit. The decision prompted swift backlash, especially toward Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, who typically wears a hoodie and gym shorts to work. Sen. John Fetterman arrives at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 21, 2023. / Credit: Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images On Wednesday, the Senate adopted the formal dress code by unanimous consent, requiring a coat, tie and slacks, or long pants for men. It does not include any specific requirements for women. "Though we've never had a formal dress code, the events over the past week have made us all feel as though formalizing [a dress code] is the right path forward. I deeply appreciate Sen. Fetterman working with me to come to an agreement that we all find acceptable," Schumer said Wednesday. The resolution was introduced by Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Republican Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah. "For 234 years, every senator who has had the honor of serving in this distinguished body has assumed that there was some basic written rules of decorum, conduct and civility, one of which was a dress code," Manchin said. "We thought maybe it's time we finally codify something that was precedented rule for 234 years." After the vote, Fetterman released a statement that included no words, only a photograph of actor Kevin James smirking. Alan He contributed reporting. Gen. Milley responds to Trump post accusing general of treason | 60 Minutes North Korea says it will expel Travis King, U.S. soldier who ran across border Arrest warrent issued for suspect in killing of 26-year-old Baltimore tech CEO A number of Senate Republicans are threatening to oppose legislation to fund the government beyond Sept. 30 because of $6.1 billion in funding for Ukraine and the lack of language addressing the huge surge of migrants across the U.S.-Mexico border. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.) and Sen. Susan Collins (Maine), the senior Republican on the Appropriations Committee, are the chief proponents for passing the bill but got pushback from disgruntled GOP colleagues Wednesday. McConnell repeated his calls to fund the government and not to abandon Ukraine in the middle of its war against Russia. Were all familiar with the choice we have before us: shut down the government, or keep the government open up until Nov. 17 and give us a chance to continue to resolve a number of the appropriations issues, he said. But his effort to continue helping Ukraine is running into stiff opposition from fellow Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul (R). I will use every tool I can to prevent it from easily passing. We dont have any extra money. We borrowed $1 trillion in the last three months. We basically borrow the money from China to send it to Ukraine. Its not making us stronger, its making us weaker. McConnell on Wednesday showed no willingness to drop the Ukraine money, which was included in the bill a week after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskys visit to Washington. Im comfortable with the way we put together the Senate bill. It basically is trying to do just a continuation until Nov. 17. This crafted package is the result of a lot of discussion. I think it makes sense for the Senate. I also think it makes sense for the country, he said. Senate Republican Whip John Thune (S.D.) also defended the $6.15 billion for Ukraine as a continuation of the current policy. Obviously this is one of the policy issues that were going to be arguing about the next 45 days if we can get the [continuing resolution] across the finish line, he said. This is just a temporary plug. But he acknowledged its conceivable that Paul will delay Senate passage of the funding measure until Sunday a day past the deadline for a shutdown. The possibility of a shutdown did appear to become more likely Wednesday, with the Senate bill hitting opposition, and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) telling members of his conference that he wont even bring a Senate-passed funding bill to the House floor for a vote. McCarthy wants to bring a House GOP measure to fund the government for a short time to the floor, but its not clear he has the support in his conference to win that vote. The House GOP bill would not win support from Democrats and would be dead on arrival in the Senate. The Speaker could change his mind as the minutes click down to a shutdown, particularly if his own bill fails to win support from his conference. But bringing the Senate bill to the floor risks setting off a challenge to McCarthys Speakership from conservatives who insist McCarthy should not lean on Democrats to keep the government open. McConnell played down the Senates stark differences with the Speaker. Well, you know for over 200 years the Senate and House has been very different. What were focusing on here in the Senate is to try to keep the government open, try to continue to pay people who are essential to our security like air traffic controllers, border patrol, Capitol police, he said. I dont want to give the Speaker any advice on how to run the House. The Senate bill still seems likely to get through the chamber, but the disagreements could lead to a bumpy road and complicates efforts to win approval before Sunday, when the shutdown would start, without new legislation. Some Republican senators are also complaining that the bill has a slim prospect of passing the GOP-controlled House and doesnt have enough funding to replenish the federal disaster relief fund, which is running out of money. Senate Republicans debated at their Wednesday lunch whether to keep the money for Ukraine in the bill, broaden its potential use to also cover Taiwan or whether to pull the funding completely. Most of the debate was focused on what to do about Ukraine funding, but senators also discussed the need to do address border security and the shortfall in disaster relief funding. Paul rejected the possibility that he would drop his opposition if he gets a vote on an amendment or some other concession that wouldnt necessarily affect the Ukraine funding. No, they need to take the Ukraine money off of this. Its insulting to Americans and those who work in our government that were going to fund the Ukrainian government if theres a shutdown, they will continue to pay Ukrainian government workers while our workers go unpaid, he said. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) on Wednesday dismissed the Senate stopgap funding measure as a waste of time, given the opposition it will face from House conservatives. It makes absolutely no sense for the Senate to waste the rest of this week voting on a spending bill that is dead on arrival in the House. In fact, it guarantees a shutdown. I will only vote for a bill viable in both chambers that will prevent a shutdown, which is why I would vote against the Schumer bill in its current form, Tillis said in a statement. The [continuing resolution] in its current form I have no intention of voting for, he said. Were trying to identify [provisions] that address the problem at the border. I want to support things that actually reduce future flows of migrants, he added. Collins, the vice chairwoman of the Appropriations Committee, told colleagues she would be open to adding border security language, pointing out the bill can still be amended because it hasnt come to the floor, said a senator who attended the meeting. Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) is balking at the bill for not including enough money for disaster relief, nor language to allow disaster assistance to be distributed in the form of block grants. Scott called the $6 billion in new disaster relief funding in the continuing resolution totally inadequate for Floridians, our farmers and every American fighting to recover from recent disasters. He wants to add at least another $10 billion on top of the $6 billion already in the bill for the Federal Emergency Management Agencys disaster relief fund. We have to add the block grant language. Vilsack has made the decision he will not give our farmers money, he said, referring to Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack. He said that Vilsack is claiming he doesnt have the authority to distribute block grants to states to speed up disaster relief to farmers. The way you get this money out faster you still live by all the standards is you give it to the state department of ag[riculture] or the governors office, Scott said. Aris Folley and Mychael Schnell contributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Senate Republicans say they want to add language to the government funding stopgap that would stop the Biden administrations policy of releasing migrants after theyve been detained for crossing the U.S.-Mexico border, but the idea is already running into Democratic opposition. A group of Senate Republicans are rallying behind Speaker Kevin McCarthys (R-Calif.) demand that any government funding bill include policy changes that Republicans say would secure the border, specifically language requiring migrants detained while crossing the border to wait in Mexico while their asylum claims process. Id like as close to H.R. 2 [the Secure the Border Act] as we can possibly get, said Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), who participated in a meeting of Republican senators Thursday morning on adding border security language to the continuing resolution. The House bill, the Secure the Border Act, would require the Department of Homeland Security to resume border wall construction, increase the number of border patrol agents and tighten asylum standards. It would also require the department to detain unlawful migrants or return them to Mexico or Canada. McCarthy told reporters Thursday that he wants to establish a remain in Mexico policy and reestablish the pandemic-era Title 42 health emergency order that suspended migrants ability to stay in the United States to pursue asylum claims. Basically, I think, it boils down to ending catch and release, Cornyn said. That happens because theres no reasonable detention of people while their asylum claims are being considered. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin (Ill.), a leading Democratic voice on immigration reform, immediately dismissed Cornyns requested changes to the continuing resolution as unrealistic. Im for immigration reform, and Ive been that way for 10 years since we passed it on the [Senate] floor [in 2013.] This notion that were going to stick it into a measure thats going to pass in 48 hours is unrealistic, Durbin said. The Senate advanced a stopgap funding bill Thursday, though it still has legislative hurdles to overcome. Government funding runs out Saturday. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The US Senate has passed a resolution formalizing business attire as the proper dress code for the floor of the chamber by unanimous consent. This comes after Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer chose to stop enforcing the unwritten requirement, and Democratic Sen. John Fettermans casual dress became a flashpoint in the Capitol. The bipartisan bill from Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Utah Republican Sen. Mitt Romney requires that members abide by a real dress code rather than an unwritten custom when on the Senate floor, that includes a coat, tie, and slacks for men. The resolution doesnt specify what is deemed as business attire for women on the Senate floor. Though weve never had an official dress code, the events over the past week have made us all feel as though formalizing one is the right path forward, Schumer said. I deeply appreciate Senator Fetterman working with me to come to an agreement that we all find acceptable, and of course I appreciate Sen. Manchin and Sen. Romneys leadership on this issue. Before the measure passed, Fetterman told CNNs Manu Raju that he would wear business attire when presiding over the Senate floor. Following the vote, Fettermans office released a brief statement that included a viral meme photograph of the actor Kevin James. In 2017, then-House Speaker Paul Ryan relaxed rules on attire after dozens of congresswomen objected to a prohibition on displaying bare arms. In 2019, the attire for women in the Senate was relaxed after then-Senate Rules Committee chair Amy Klobuchar pushed for a change so women could wear sleeveless dresses. This story has been updated with additional information. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, speaks during a Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee hearing to examine the federal response to COVID-19 and new emerging variants on Jan. 11, 2022 on Capitol Hill in Washington | Greg Nash, Associated Press Before the Senate unanimously passed a bipartisan resolution to reinstate the requirement that business attire be worn on the Senate floor, Sen. Mitt Romney and Sen. Joe Manchin spoke to their colleagues. On Sept. 17, Majority Leader Chuck Schumer , D-N.Y. ordered a dress code policy change, allowing U.S. senators to wear whatever they want on the Senate floor, per Deseret News. The United States Capitol is more than just a place of work it serves as a symbol of freedom and democracy to the world, Romney said Wednesday night. Hard work was done, and sacrifices made, to ensure that our legislative branch of government wasnt just housed in some tent. As senators, we should demonstrate a high level of reverence for the institution in which we serve and our attire is one of the most basic expressions of that respect. Im proud to stand with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to call for a return to a level of dress becoming of the Senate. Romney, R-Utah, related the architecture of the U.S. Capitol building to the respect the builders of America had for its ideals and values. Related He said, I think its in keeping with that spirit that we say we want those who serve inside this room, in this hall, to show a level of dignity and respect which is consistent with the sacrifice they made and with the beauty of the surroundings. Manchin, D-W.V., likewise emphasized the importance of respecting the American Senate. He said, For 234 years, every senator that has had the honor of serving in this distinguished body has assumed there were some basic written rules of decorum, conduct and civility, one of which was a dress code. Just over a week ago, we all learned that there were not in fact any written rules about what Senators could and could not wear on the floor of the Senate. So Senator Romney and I got together and we thought maybe its time that we finally codify something that was the precedented rule for 234 years. The Senate voted 76-22 Thursday to keep a six-week government funding measure on track to pass this weekend, but it looks increasingly likely the federal government will shut down when funding runs out Saturday. Senators voted to proceed to the legislative vehicle for the continuing resolution a Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill but there are still a few legislative hurdles to overcome before the stopgap spending measure can be sent to the House. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) announced the next vote, on ending debate on the substitute amendment, which will be the stopgap funding measure itself, is expected to happen Saturday. The 79-page substitute includes $6.15 billion for Ukraine, $6 billion in disaster relief funding and would fund the federal government until Nov. 17. I will file cloture on the substitute and underlying bill. So members can expect to vote for cloture on Saturday, if not sooner. Things are coming down to the wire, Schumer said on the floor. Congress only has one option to avoid a shutdown: Bipartisanship, Schumer said. The Senate timeline was slowed down by Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), who has vowed to make passage of the continuing resolution as difficult as possible if it includes money for Ukraine, which it does. As a result, the Senate is not on a trajectory to pass the funding measure by the Sept. 30 deadline, heightening the likelihood of a shutdown. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.) warned before the vote that Congress has only a few days to avoid a lapse in funding that would largely shutter federal departments and agencies except for a small percentage of personnel deemed essential. Well, Congress has three days left to pass straightforward short-term funding legislation and prevent the federal government from shutting down, McConnell noted. Thats three more days to provide essential resources at the current rate of operations before critical government functions come to a screeching halt. The Senate voted 77-19 Tuesday to end debate on the motion to proceed to the legislative vehicle for the continuing resolution. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Sen. Patty Murray announced her support of the Secure and Fair Enforcement Regulation Banking Act (SAFER) to save Washington State pot shops. Sen. Murray hopes the legislation will ensure that pot shops have access to the traditional banking system used by other American businesses according to a Wednesday press release. Currently, pot shops do not have access to the traditional systems because banks are worried that they could be prosecuted due to the federal restrictions on cannabis. This means that all legal pot shops are forced to be cash businesses. This opens the door to the smash-and-grab robberies that have spiked in the past months. Its ridiculous that legal cannabis businesses in Washington state are forced to operate entirely in cashand it puts the safety of their employees and our neighborhoods at risk, said Senator Murray. The SAFER Banking Act is an important first step in doing the right thing for small business owners and the communities they operate in and Im going to keep pushing to get it across the finish line. The new legislation would ensure that sanctioned cannabis businesses have full access to insurance, bank accounts, and other financial services. The legislation would also protect hemp and hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) related businesses. More information about the SAFER Banking Act is available in the official release. Kaohsiung, Taiwan (CNN) Taiwan unveiled its first-ever domestically built submarine on Thursday, an accomplishment the island democracys leader hailed as a significant milestone as Taipei works to boost its military deterrence in the face of a growing threat from Beijing. President Tsai Ing-wen presided over a ceremony at the submarines shipyard in southern Kaohsiung city where the diesel-electric vessel was officially named Narwhal in English and Hai Kun in Mandarin which can be loosely translated as sea monster. The submarine is an important realization of our concrete commitment in defending our country, Tsai said. It is also important equipment for our naval forces in developing asymmetric warfare strategies. In the past, many people thought building an indigenous submarine would be an impossible task. But we have made it, she added. The ceremony was a significant personal moment for Tsai, who launched a flagship defense policy to build the first domestic submarine shortly after taking office in 2016. Taiwanese defense chiefs hope the submarines would help to make it far harder for a potential invasion by China, which claims the island as its territory and has ramped up its saber-rattling in recent years. Journalists were given a tour inside the submarines shipyard but were not allowed to take close-up photos for security reasons. Details about the ships size or capability were also not disclosed during the ceremony, which was also attended by Sandra Oudkirk, Washingtons de facto ambassador to Taiwan, as well as the representatives from the Japanese and South Korean missions in Taipei. Tsai said the indigenous submarine project was a top priority of her administration. With the addition of Narwhal, Taiwan will have a total of three submarines by 2025 it already has two Dutch-made submarines that were first commissioned in the 1980s. Taiwan previously has said it plans to build a total of eight indigenous submarines. Defending the first island chain In an internal briefing attended by CNN last week, Admiral Huang Shu-kuang, an adviser of Taiwans National Security Council and a leader of the indigenous submarine project, said the new fleet will play a key role in preventing Beijing from conducting a naval blockade of the island. While the Taiwan Strait might be too shallow for submarines to operate in, the vessels could be most useful when deployed to target Chinese warships in the Bashi channel which separates Taiwan from the Philippines and the waters between Taiwan and Japans westernmost islands, he said. Because Chinas access to the Pacific Ocean is limited by the first island chain which includes Japan, Taiwan and the Philippines its naval forces would need to pass through these two strategic points to gain access to the wider ocean. Therefore, Huang said, Taiwan can help limit Chinas projection of military power by deploying its submarines there. In the event of a military conflict, the Chinese navy will definitely want to enter the area to the east of Taiwan so as to surround us and limit the US ability to intervene, Huang told the briefing. Because submarines can operate deep under water and are hard to detect, they have a better chance of getting close to (Chinese) aircraft carriers and launching attacks. That assessment was shared by Collin Koh, senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, who said the new submarine fleet would help Taiwan build a more credible second-strike capability. China has a lot of focus on countering what they see as potential US military intervention, and it has planned for a major naval engagement with the US outside the first island chain, around the Philippine Sea, he said. If the Taiwanese want to contribute to that, then one way to do that is to bottle up the PLA Navy within the first island chain, dont allow it come out and help the US military intervention become successful, he added. Admiral Huang also said the submarines are designed with the capability of carrying US-made MK-48 torpedoes, which can be used to target surface ships. A challenging journey Taiwan has increasingly emphasized a policy of defense self-sufficiency, which has seen the island ramp up its domestic weapons development to modernize its armed forces and be less reliant on overseas procurement. Tsai took office at a time when Taiwan had been struggling to persuade the United States and European nations to sell the island big ticket military hardware items. That has become less of an issue in recent years as Beijing ramps up diplomatic, economic and military pressure on Taipei and the United States in particular has signed off on a slew of large military sales under President Joe Biden and his predecessor Donald Trump. But Taiwans indigenous military procurement program remains a lynchpin of its defense strategy, particularly when it comes to systems like anti-ship missiles that could defend against a potential invasion. In March, CNN visited a Taiwanese state-owned military weapons developer, as it unveiled five new types of indigenous military drones that are capable of surveillance and launching aerial attacks. Taiwans success in building its first submarine could help alleviate some concerns over its military preparedness as Beijing increasingly asserts its territorial claims over the island democracy of 23.5 million. Chinas ruling Communist Party views Taiwan as part of its territory, despite having never controlled it. Beijing has long vowed that the island must be unified with the Chinese mainland, by force if necessary, while the Taiwanese authorities strongly reject Chinas territorial claims over it. Beijing has ramped pressure on Taiwan under Xi Jinping, Chinas most assertive leader in a generation. In recent years Chinese fighter jets, bombers and surveillance aircraft have conducted an ever growing number of sorties around the island, while Chinese warships have crossed the unofficial Median Line that runs down the Taiwan Strait with growing frequency. Last summer Chinas military launched massive drills to protest a visit to Taiwan by then House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. At the internal briefing, Admiral Huang said Taiwan first attempted to build a new submarine fleet when former president Lee Teng-hui founded a task force in 1995, but faced difficulties as the US was reluctant to sell its submarines to the island. The project formally began in 2016, after Tsai took office. He said the process of building Taiwans first submarine had been very challenging due to budget limitations, delays resulting from a global chip shortage, and concerns over possible Chinese espionage. The project involved a total of 1,003 Taiwanese personnel, most of which were involved in designing the submarines blueprint, Huang said. The personnel were all subject to monitoring by a military security division to ensure no secrets were leaked. Huang said he was given a budget of $1.54 billion (NT$49.36 billion) to build the first ship. About 60% of the budget was spent on acquiring overseas materials and military equipment, but he believed that percentage would decrease in the future as Taiwans domestic submarine shipbuilding industry becomes more mature. He declined to disclose which countries approved export permits for Taiwan but said he had reached out to senior military leaders in the US Pacific Fleet, Japan, South Korea and India. After the submarine was unveiled, it will enter sea trials next month before entering service next year. This story was first published on CNN.com, "Taiwan unveils first domestically built submarine as China threat grows." FILE - Migrants who crossed the Rio Grande and entered the U.S. from Mexico are lined up for processing by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, in Eagle Pass, Texas. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott arrived in New York City to chat, Wednesday, Sept. 27, about the border crisis and the influx of migrants that has brought chaos to the city. He says he began busing migrants to New York and other cities to alleviate the pressure on border towns in his state. (AP Photo/Eric Gay, File) NEW YORK (AP) For more than a year, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has been busing migrants from the southern U.S. border to places like New York, Washington and Chicago, prompting angry complaints from Democratic officials in those cities. The local authorities have said the influx of homeless, jobless newcomers is unsustainable. Speaking in New York Wednesday, the Republican Abbott agreed it was unsustainable, but said he's not the person most to blame. The lead importer of migrants to New York is not Texas, its Joe Biden , he said at a breakfast event held by the Manhattan Institute, a conservative think tank. Abbot said he began the busing program in response to the plight of the small border towns in his state who do not have the resources to deal with border crossers. Its a crisis. Its chaotic and it must stop, he said, urging the president to enforce laws he said gives the White House authority to repel migrants at the border. Until that time comes, Abbott said, Texas is going to continue to use every tool that we can to secure the border the best that we can. Those steps have included placing buoys a floating border wall in the Rio Grande to make it even harder to cross the turbulent river, where many migrants, including children, have drowned. Razor wire has also been uncoiled along the border. And the state has paid for many buses to transport migrants to New York and other big cities run by Democrats. By Abbott's count, Texas has given bus tickets to about 42,000 to start new lives elsewhere with 15,800 sent to New York City since the spring of 2022. Many thousands more people, though, have gone to the northeast U.S. on their own, or been sent by social service organizations or municipalities. New York City Mayor Eric Adams, a Democrat, has also been critical of the federal government, saying it hasnt done enough to help with the cost of absorbing the wave of nearly 120,000 and counting that have arrived in the city. But his spokesperson on Wednesday also blamed Abbott. New Yorkers deserve better than being trapped between a vicious game of political hot potato, said Kayla Mamelak. So lets stick to the facts: When thousands of asylum seekers arrived at Governor Abbotts doorstep in pursuit of the American Dream, he chose to use them as political pawns. Abbott said unlike New York, which sometimes has advance notice of bus arrivals, his state gets no such warning. What is going on in New York is calm and organized compared to the real chaos of what we see on the border, he said, adding that New York is seeing only a fraction of the multitudes Texas has had to deal with over the years. Last week, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre again accused Abbott of turning the border crisis into a political stunt." She said the White House has given the city $140 million in aid though the city wants more. Last week, Biden's administration gave hundreds of thousands of asylum seekers ffrom Venezuela temporary protected status, which would expedite their ability to legally work in the United States. Other U.S. cities have also dealt with an influx of migrants trying to escape poverty, violence or oppression in their home nations. In San Diego, the county's board of supervisors declared border crossings by asylum seekers an urgent humanitarian crisis and pleaded with the White House for more aid. Since Sept. 13, U.S. authorities have been dropping off migrants at transit centers in San Diego and the suburbs of El Cajon and Oceanside. Migrants are being released across the county with little direction and few resources, the county statement said, calling on the federal government to limit releases or provide more financial support. San Diego, like other border cities, is generally only a temporary home for asylum-seekers, who fan out across the country to join other migrants, family and friends. On Wednesday, the International Organization for Migration appealed to Mexico and Central America to help address the unprecedented numbers of vulnerable migrants transit through the region," adding that long-term solutions are needed to solve the underlying problems that drive people from their own countries. Chaiwat Limlikitaksorn, a former chief of Kaeng Krachan National Park in the western Phetchaburi province, arrives at The Central Criminal Court of Corruption and Misconduct in Bangkok to hear his verdict in his trial, Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. The court on Thursday acquitted four national park employees of the kidnapping and murder of an Indigenous rights activist who disappeared under suspicious circumstances more than nine years ago. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) BANGKOK (AP) A court in Thailand on Thursday acquitted four national park employees, including a senior official, of the kidnapping and murder of an Indigenous rights activist who disappeared under suspicious circumstances more than nine years ago. The activist, Porlajee Rakchongcharoen, was last seen in the custody of Kaeng Krachan National Park officials in western Thailands Phetchaburi province on April 17, 2014. The killing or disappearance of community and environmental activists is a persistent but overlooked problem in Thailand and many developing countries. Porlajees is one of 76 cases of enforced disappearances in recent decades in Thailand that the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights last year listed as unresolved. Chaiwat Limlikitaksorn, the former chief of Kaeng Krachan National Park, and the three other defendants were arrested in 2019 after Thailands Department of Special Investigation uncovered partial remains they identified though DNA analysis as matching that of Porlajee's mother. The remains were found in a burned oil drum that had been sunken in a reservoir in the park. Porlajee, better known as Billy, had been leading the local Karen ethnic minority community in a lawsuit against Chaiwat over his efforts to forcibly evict them by burning their homes inside the park where they had lived for generations along with their possessions. Chaiwat, who is now director of the Office of National Parks in the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, acknowledged that Porlajee had been detained the day he disappeared for illegally collecting wild honey but said he had been released with a warning before disappearing. Although all the defendants were acquitted of abduction and murder, Chaiwat was sentenced to three years imprisonment for failing to notify police of Porlajee's actions after detaining him for allegedly possessing the illegally harvested honey. Porlajee was 30 years old when he went missing. The Central Criminal Court of Corruption and Misconduct, which oversees cases of government officials that involve charges related to corruption or misconduct, ruled Thursday that the pieces of bones found and tested were not enough to show they belonged to Porlajee, so there was not enough forensic evidence to determine he is dead. It said the circumstantial evidence was also not credible enough to say that the defendants committed the crime. I just want to know the truth, where Billy has been missing. But from 2014 until today, we still dont have any answer. I dont know what to believe," Porlajee's wife, Phinnapha Phrueksaphan, said after the verdict was issued. Lawyer Preeda Nakpiuw, who is representing the family who were the plaintiffs said they will appeal because they believe there is still a way to contest the verdict and move the case forward. Ahead of the courts ruling, the human rights group Amnesty International had described the upcoming and long-overdue verdict (as) an important test for the Thai judicial system, which has failed victims of enforced disappearances for far too long." The judiciary has now an opportunity to set a new standard when addressing enforced disappearances to ensure they align with international human rights law, the group said in a statement issued Tuesday. Thai authorities also have a chance to show leadership by sending a message to officials working all over the country: that the culture of impunity ends now and enforced disappearances will no longer be tolerated. Paul Paradis, who has pleaded guilty to bribery in the federal investigation of city attorneys' handling of a lawsuit over faulty DWP bills, enters federal court in June. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) A federal judge in Los Angeles on Wednesday ordered a six-week delay in the sentencing of a central figure in the criminal case involving the Los Angeles city attorneys office and the Department of Water and Power. U.S. District Court Judge Stanley Blumenfeld Jr. didn't fully explain his reasoning for delaying sentencing for Paul Paradis until Nov. 7. His order came one day after he held a hearing in Paradis' case in downtown L.A. Paradis, a former attorney who worked for the Los Angeles city attorney's office, has pleaded guilty to bribery in the federal investigation of city attorneys' handling of a lawsuit over faulty DWP bills. The U.S. attorney's office in Los Angeles confirmed this month that its investigation is over, which is sparking questions about why some individuals who might have taken part in schemes weren't charged by prosecutors. Read more: Questions, anger after feds signal an end to DWP billing probe Paradis is now helping California State Bar investigators in that agency's probe. At a Tuesday hearing in Paradis' case, Blumenfeld called a representative of the State Bar to the podium for an update on its investigation. Anthony Garcia, assistant chief trial counsel for the State Bar, told Blumenfeld that investigators are moving with due haste. Garcia also confirmed that the State Bar wants Paradis available so he can continue to aid the investigation. The State Bar is investigating the conduct of several attorneys who worked on litigation stemming from the massive billing problems in 2013 at the DWP. Those attorneys, according to federal prosecutors, took part in a collusive lawsuit intended to quickly settle the case on terms favorable to the city and later sought to cover up the scheme. Blumenfeld earlier this month allowed the government to provide some confidential materials, including search warrants, used in the federal investigation, to State Bar investigators. Paradis' attorneys declined to comment on the judge's order. Two weeks ago, Paradis' attorneys filed court documents seeking a more lenient sentence based on new sentencing guidelines that will go into effect on Nov. 1. Paradis has admitted his role in the collusive lawsuit. He has also accused former City Atty. Mike Feuer of knowing about both the scheme and an extortion threat from a woman who threatened to reveal the city's collusive lawsuit. Read more: Attorneys under investigation by State Bar in DWP billing scandal Feuer, who is running for the congressional seat being vacated by Rep. Adam Schiff, has denied knowing about any of the schemes. Blumenfeld also previously delayed sentencing in June for Paradis so the State Bar could continue working with Paradis in its investigation, one of the largest probes in decades, according to investigators. At that hearing, Blumenfeld said that he felt a special obligation, which has limits, to cleaning up, if that is what is appropriate and necessary, the perfidy within the Bar if, indeed, there is such perfidy. Separately, the government's search warrants and other confidential documents are also being sought by Dennis Bradshaw, a DWP customer who is suing several attorneys, including Feuer, over their alleged handling of the collusive lawsuit. Blumenfeld on Tuesday ordered federal prosecutors and Paradis' lawyers to agree on language for a protective order for the government's confidential documents. The government provided Paradis those documents so Paradis could prepare for his sentencing. It's not yet clear whether Bradshaw will be granted access to the documents. 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. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Serenity Towers owes another fine after failing to fix their elevators for weeks at a time. Thursday morning was yet another disappointing court appearance for Serenity Towers as they addressed the issues. MORE ON SERENITY TOWERS The court needs answers, said Judge Patrick Dandridge, Environmental Court. If we dont have answers, then we need corporate or some representative here. I need answers. Judge Dandridge once again requested the apartments plans to repair the elevators and air conditioning. HUD says Serenity Towers operator will present new renovation plan this week Representatives for the Memphis Fire Department told the judge only one elevator in each tower was working. As far as the air conditioning, the property manager told the judge the air was working but code enforcement said it was not cold enough. If the chillers are not performing as they should, then thats not adequate and I still dont have a response on the elevator, said Judge Dandridge. Management said it would cost around $15,000 to fix the remaining two elevators. However, she said she has not received any plans from Millennia Housing Management, Serenitys parent company, regarding how they would make the necessary repairs. THDA revokes $23M bond for Serenity Towers owners We need someone from corporate to give me answers or I continue to issue fines, said Judge Dandridge. Serenity Towers was issued a $1,000 fine and the judge also says an appointed special master will be visiting the facility between now and Tuesday to determine if the building should remain occupied. The complex is due back in court on Tuesday. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. Christopher McGowan committed a 'crime of staggering cruelty and depravity', the judge said - Tim Bugler/The Central Scotland News Agency A serial offender with 40 convictions murdered his girlfriend in a brutal and bestial attack after being released on bail to live with her, a court has heard. Christopher McGowan, 28, is facing a life sentence after a jury took less than two hours to find him guilty of the murder of Claire Inglis, who he strangled, choked with a baby wipe and burned with a lighter in her final moments. Judge Michael OGrady KC said McGowan had committed a crime of staggering cruelty and depravity, a crime of utter wickedness. The parents of Miss Inglis, also 28 and a mother-of-one, have demanded to know why McGowan was bailed to live with their daughter and grandson at her flat in Stirling. Just weeks before the murder, a sheriff had sent him to live at the property after hearing that the positive relationship with Ms Inglis, his new girlfriend, had motivated him to stay out of trouble. He had previously been remanded in custody on charges that included dangerous driving following a high-speed police pursuit. Jail term for assault He should never, ever have been put in her flat with my grandson and Claire, Ms Ingliss father, Ian, told the BBC following the verdict. Not with the criminal record he had it should never have been allowed. After McGowan was convicted the High Court in Stirling heard that he had 40 previous convictions, including three for assault. He had also served an 18-month jail term for assault and robbery and had a record of domestic offending. He went on to leave Ms Inglis with at least 76 injuries in a frenzied attack, four weeks before Christmas 2021. She suffered bleeding inside her skull and extensive injuries to her neck, which McGown attempted to explain by claiming she had fallen downstairs. Judge OGrady said that hearing details of dreadful crimes on a daily basis in court meant some offences can lose a measure of their impact. He added: But some crimes still have the power to profoundly shock, and surely your brutal and bestial killing of Claire Inglis is one. It was a crime of staggering cruelty and depravity, a crime of utter wickedness. You have without rhyme, reason or pity taken the life of a young woman, a sister and daughter and mother, who as your partner should have been confident of looking to you for protection. Instead, you brought to her terrible destruction. Breached curfew before killing Five days before the killing, McGowan received a community payback order, including a curfew requiring him to stay in Ms Ingliss flat at night. Jurors heard McGowan breached that curfew the night before her death, and was still out, intoxicated, with Ms Inglis in Stirling city centre at 9pm when he should have been indoors. At 5am their neighbours were woken up by McGowan banging on their doors shouting: Help, shes covered in blood, shes not breathing. A pathologist found Ms Inglis had at least 76 separate injuries, including two black eyes and petechial haemorrhaging, a tell-tale sign of strangulation. The court heard that in her dying moments, after her circulation had already ceased, McGowan had taken a heat source to her ear nose and thumb and burnt her. He will be sentenced on Oct 25. 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. Louisiana prisoner 358331 has lived the past 28 years as a shadow. Held in conditions of solitary confinement for 27 years, the inmate has cycled between disciplinary units in different prisons, including a six-year stint on the old death row at the notorious Angola prison. Separated from the general penitentiary population, the prisoner has, according to legal letters, endured a singularly harsh existence in custody: spates of extended lockdowns, no access to in-person classes, death threats and sexual humiliation. And prisoner 358331 is unique. She is the only woman on death row in Louisiana. In 1995, Antoinette Frank, a serving New Orleans police officer, was convicted of a crime that still resonates in parts of the city today. She was found guilty of a triple murder, along with a male accomplice, for gunning down a fellow officer and two young restaurant workers during an armed robbery. It was a case that gripped Louisiana, part of an extensive list of violence and corruption scandals tied to local law enforcement at the time. And it has long spawned sensationalist true crime retellings. Next month, the public is set to hear from Frank herself for the first time since her conviction. As part of an extraordinary effort to secure clemency for all but one of Louisianas 57 death row inmates, Franks case will be among the first to come before the state parole board in a series of hearings. The board will hear new evidence detailing what experts have described as psychologically catastrophic trauma resulting from extensive physical abuse and repeated rape that Frank, now 52, endured throughout her childhood and youth. It is likely to form the basis of a bid for mercy in her words, for the board to see humanity in me and determine that my life has value. But her application is expected to be met with stiff victim opposition. And along with all the others filed in this mass clemency bid, her request comes at a political inflection point in Louisiana, with a gubernatorial election just a few months away in which a hard-right, pro-death penalty Republican holds a strong lead in the polls and has already sought to block the clemency process moving forward. The Louisiana state penitentiary, also known as Angola. Photograph: Giles Clarke/Getty Images The Guardian has examined dozens of previously unreported documents related to Franks bid for clemency, including medical records, psychological reports, affidavits and legal filings for the reporting of this story. They present an alternative personal narrative to the common, often lurid, depiction of one of the perpetrators of an infamous triple murder, and the states sole female death row inmate. It would be deeply disheartening if the [parole] board fails to recognize that Antoinette, a person who survived years of torture and rape, deserves mercy, said Sandra Babcock, a law professor at Cornell University and one of the countrys foremost experts studying women on death row. Her case exemplifies the reasons for the clemency process, allowing a decision-maker to look at the persons entire life and make a reasoned and compassionate decision about the appropriate punishment. Its hard to imagine someone more worthy of that compassion than Antoinette. Dr Sarah Deland first interviewed Antoinette Frank in May 2001. Frank was not who the assistant professor of psychiatry at Tulane University had expected to encounter. The case was so highly publicized, and she had really been castigated, Deland recalled in an interview. But she was very meek. Very eager to please. She did not strike me at all as someone interested in escaping any responsibility for what shed done. But Frank was guarded, too. And after their first prison interview, Deland had only learned about a fraction of the childhood abuse Frank suffered. The psychiatrist had been hired by new defense lawyers as the case wound through the appeals process. Franks 1995 trial came less than six months after she was charged, amid a media frenzy. She had no mitigation specialist assisting at her trial a professional commonly tasked with assisting those who face the death penalty to advocate for their lives, often by finding evidence of past trauma. It meant that her experience of extended and extreme abuse was never heard by the jury who sentenced her to death. Their deliberations concluded after less than 45 minutes. The sentence was eventually upheld by the Louisiana supreme court in 2007 in a split 5-2 ruling, but a dissent from Louisianas chief justice, Pascal Calogero, described the sentencing process in Franks trial as fatally flawed, citing her lack of expert assistance. Nonetheless, Deland continued working with Franks defense after the ruling. She interviewed her twice in 2009 and finally produced an extensive and disturbing report documenting full details of the physical, sexual and psychological abuse Frank had endured at the hands of her father, Adam Frank Sr, as she grew up in poverty in the rural town of Opelousas and in New Orleans. Related: An extraordinary story of forgiveness: from life without parole to finding grace Deland interviewed Frank for over seven hours in total and eventually absorbed her full story, much of it corroborated with documents and secondary accounts. The beatings began at an early age. Adam Frank, a Vietnam veteran, had PTSD and may himself have been a victim of incestuous abuse, according to the report. Descriptions of the physical and psychological assaults against his young daughter are contained in a set of clinical notes from Veterans Affairs doctors who treated Adam Frank in the early 1970s. Extracts were reviewed by the Guardian. An entry dated the third of October 1973 states: Patient got angry w/ children this past week and struck 2 y/o daughter [Antoinette] several times. Fourteen days later, another entry states: Patient becoming more abusive toward daughter started to choke her this past week. It appears this is becoming a rather dangerous situation. The clinician prescribed antipsychotics and recommended removing the children from the family home, which did not occur. According to Delands report, Adam Frank would lay booby traps around the house, was prone to violent rage and regularly beat his wife in front of his children, often breaking her bones. On a number of occasions he disconnected gas lines from their appliances and filled the home with gas. On others, he drove his wife and children to a railway line and threatened to kill them all in a collision. The report contains a detailed, graphic account of protracted incestuous rape, which began as Antoinette Frank entered puberty and continued into her early adulthood. Of the first time her father raped her, the report states: She screamed out in pain; he stopped and comforted her, but then he attempted to penetrate her again and this time he put his hand over her mouth to stifle her screams. Frank had three abortions as a result of her fathers numerous rapes, according to the report. The first was when she was 16 years old her father told her she had to do it if she loved him, the report states. At around this time, Franks mother left the home along with her three siblings. But Antoinette was forced to remain with her father and the sexual abuse continued. Basically, Antoinette was payment for the rest of the family being able to leave, Deland said in an interview the first she has given about the case. The final abortion occurred when she was 20, according to the report, just three years before the triple murder. The two doctors that lawyers say conducted the procedures have since died. But a recent hospital admission document, seen by the Guardian, notes three terminations on Franks record stating: pregnancies result of sexual abuse. She made three attempts at suicide, starting as a teenager. Frank joined the city police department at the age of 22. Despite failing two psychiatric evaluations, she was allowed to join the force after her second application as the department experienced a hiring shortage. According to a signed affidavit from one of Franks classmates at the police academy, Roderick Baudy, Franks father would drop her off and pick her up from class each day. The recruits noticed they behaved as if they were lovers and at social events she would sit on her fathers lap. Reached by phone, Baudy said he stood by his affidavit, which was signed in 2009. Frank reported her father missing in August 1993, a little more than a year before the killings. He has not been seen since. Delands report concludes that Antoinette Frank had PTSD and probably dependent personality disorder resulting from her abuse. It left her very susceptible to manipulation. Ms Franks beliefs, emotions, behaviors and judgment have all been negatively impacted in a complex and long lasting manner, the report states. The findings are supported by other experts, including the clinical psychologist Dr Leslie Lebowitz, who reviewed Franks file and concluded in June 2009 that Frank had endured multiple kinds of the most toxic traumatic stress imaginable, making it likely that as an adult she will vacillate between a relatively shut down, numb, robotic or dissociative state, on the one hand, and feelings of terror, helplessness, and confusion on the other. Two jurors who originally sentenced her to death now say they would not have done so if they had been aware of this long history, according to signed affidavits, reviewed by the Guardian. This information about abuse would have made a difference in my sentencing decision, wrote one of the former jurors. Now that I know about her childhood I dont think she should be executed. The murders occurred past midnight in New Orleans East on 4 March 1995, days after the city had celebrated Mardi Gras. Frank had worked an occasional off-duty security detail at a Vietnamese restaurant called Kim Anh, run by a tightly knit family, the Vus. She shared shifts with a fellow police officer, Ronald Ronnie Williams II, a father of two young children. Months earlier, Frank had struck up a friendship with an 18-year-old named Rogers LaCaze, a known local drug dealer, whom she met during a police interview after he had been shot. Frank has maintained she had tried to mentor him and that their relationship was not sexual. Accounts of what unfolded on the night of the killings have varied over the years, but prosecutors at trial concluded that the pair had visited the restaurant multiple times that evening. As the business closed, Frank used a stolen key to enter the premises and forced two of the Vu siblings, Chau and Quoc, as well as another employee to the back of the building. LaCaze shot Williams to death, according to prosecutors. As the shots rang out, the two siblings fled and hid inside a refrigerator. Two other siblings, Ha Vu and Cuong Vu, were then gunned down at close range as the assailants searched for hidden cash from the register. Chau and Quoc heard the volley of gunshots that killed their siblings. Frank fled but returned to the scene of the crime shortly after 911 was called, arriving in a police patrol car. The hidden survivors instantly identified her as one of the killers before she and LaCaze were arrested. Frank and LaCaze were convicted of first-degree murder. LaCaze initially confessed to police but later recanted and claimed innocence. He was found guilty and sentenced to death before Franks trial. During the appeals process, due process issues at trial were identified, and his sentence was downgraded to life without parole. That left Frank as the only participant facing death over the Kim Anh murders. Her defense team called no witnesses during the guilt phase of the trial. During the sentencing phase, as prosecutors urged the jury to sentence her to death, they closed by stating: Was that a woman that walked in there and massacred those people? No, ladies and gentlemen, that was a murderer. Franks clemency petition includes an admission of her involvement but continues to suggest she was not a willing participant in the robbery or the murders. In a police interview after her arrest, Frank maintained that LaCaze had held a gun to her head as she opened fire. The account is repeated in her clemency application and supported by prosecution testimony. A witness, Kim Carter, testified during the appeal process and claimed that LaCaze, who was her friend, had confessed to this during a jailhouse phone call. I ache to the core of my being for the victims, their loved ones, and everyone whove been affected by the horrific tragedy that occurred at the Kim Anh Restaurant in March of 1995, a 2021 letter from Frank included in the petition states. The Kim Anh restaurant has since moved locations to a strip mall in a nearby suburb. The family moved after the old spot was destroyed when New Orleanss federal levees failed during Hurricane Katrina in 2005, flooding the city. There are few reminders of the tragedy that occurred in 1995. But hanging behind the cash register is a local newspaper article about Kim Anhs post-Katrina reopening in 2006. Double-dose of tragedy fails to stop Kim Anh owners, the headline states. Nguyet Vu, right, and her daughter Chau working in the kitchen of Kim Anh. Photograph: Barbara Laing/Getty Images Still, members of the Vu family remain haunted by the murders. When Quoc Vu, now a civil engineer, learned that Frank was being considered for clemency, he submitted a letter to the board expressing staunch opposition. It explained that he still suffers from nightmares and anxiety attacks, despite the almost three decades that have passed. He has since obtained a permit to carry a gun for self-defense, which he carries everywhere possible. I will never forget the day it happened, Vus letter, which he shared with the Guardian, states. I am scarred for life by it Since 1995 till now, my family has suffered with the memories of that day. I never feel safe anymore anywhere. Williamss father, Ron Williams, declined to discuss Franks clemency petition when contacted recently. He has previously described the loss of his son as by far the worst experience of his life. A regular attendee at hearings centering on the Kim Anh killings over the years, Williams once expressed his frustration at the cases years-long appeals process by saying its absurd that criminals are not made to answer for their crimes. The Orleans parish district attorneys office did not respond to a request for comment on whether it will oppose or make any statement to the parole board at Franks clemency hearing. The mass clemency applications have been mired in politics since they were announced in June. Louisianas outgoing Democratic governor, John Bel Edwards, who assumed office in 2016, announced his opposition to capital punishment in March of this year. But as the state lurches towards a gubernatorial election this year, in which the Republican Jeff Landry leads comfortably, according to polling, the petitions could represent a last real chance at reprieve for some. Although Louisiana has not carried out an execution since 2010, Landry, the states incumbent far-right attorney general, has long advocated for its continuance, including the use of the electric chair, firing squads and hangings. Were entering into a really barbaric, dangerous era, where we will have lynchings in the United States, if Landry has his way, said Samantha Kennedy, executive director of the Promise of Justice Initiative, a New Orleans-based legal advocacy group involved in the petitions. We are in a critical period, which is really about the future and where were going to be. Are we going to kill people in this state, or are we going to recognize the frailties of humankind and turn towards mercy? Landry has attempted to block all 56 clemency petitions from being heard, and last week he filed a lawsuit challenging the applicants eligibility. But the moves have faced broad criticism and have no legal basis, according to Edwards and the many defense attorneys involved in coordinating the petitions. Capital punishment in Louisiana, just as in other states, holds a history of stark racial and mental disparities 42 of the 57 people currently on death row in the state are people of color, and 67% are Black. At least 23 cite evidence of intellectual disability. Nine people sentenced to death in Louisiana in the past 24 years have since been exonerated. Still, the clemency filings have moved the needle into uncharted territory here. There is precedent for mass commutations in other states, following a move 20 years ago in Illinois when the then governor, George Ryan, commuted the sentences of all 167 death row inmates. But there is nothing of comparison in the US south, where the sentence is imposed more readily than elsewhere. Louisiana has seen just two people granted clemency from the death penalty since 1976. Its parole board has not heard a capital case in a decade, according to advocates, plunging the scheduled hearings into a level of significant uncertainty. A majority decision is required from the boards five members to grant clemency and commute a sentence to life without parole. They will weigh factors including the circumstances of the offense itself, the individuals prison record, and community attitude, which includes victim opposition, before making a subjective ruling. And only with the boards approval will a petition reach the governors desk. The cemetery at the Louisiana state penitentiary. Photograph: The Washington Post/Getty Images It can be quite unpredictable, said Dr Marcus Kondkar, an associate professor of sociology at Loyola University New Orleans, who has long observed the boards handling of life-without-parole clemency hearings. Its not a legal procedure where there is grounds for appeal, and so its very much about personalities. In my view, the types of narratives that tend to be successful before the board tend to lack any kind of nuance or qualifying complexity of any kind. Many Louisianans have a viscerally negative reaction to Franks case in particular. At the time, the Kim Anh murders became synonymous with the culture of corruption and brutality that New Orleanss police department was known for. A year earlier, another New Orleans police officer had orchestrated the deadly shooting of a woman who filed an excessive force complaint against him. Then, in Katrinas chaotic aftermath, New Orleans police unjustifiably killed four men in three separate cases. The city and federal governments finally signed a sweeping, 492-point reform plan for the police department in 2012. That pact has since lifted the police department out of some of its historys lowest and darkest depths, but the agency had not yet managed to fully implement it more than a decade later, starkly illustrating the scale of the work that needed to be done. Antoinette Franks hearing is scheduled for the first batch of five cases to be heard on 13 October. Its announcement drew derision from some rightwing observers in New Orleanss criminal legal system, as modern day often sexualized retellings of the murders continue to proliferate in media. Such disparagement, said Dr Babcock, has for decades been a fixture of how women on death row are viewed in public discourse. Women who are sentenced to death are typically described in broad stereotypes, said Babcock. They are demonized in ways that have everything to do with their gender, both in the conclusions that people draw about women who behave in ways that are not typical of feminine archetypes but in a case like this it goes deeper, in that women, particularly Black women, who are victims of violence are not believed. Babcocks co-authored recent research concludes that 96% of the women on death row in the US have experienced gender-based violence, with almost 90% having experienced at least one episode of sexual or physical violence. There are currently 47 cisgender women on death row. Still, said Babcock, the violence experienced by Antoinette Frank is among the most extreme she has encountered. A letter sent to Governor Edwards this week, signed by over two dozen experts or organizations studying gender-based violence, urges the outgoing Democrat to commute her sentence to life. It is essential to understand how a survivors experiences of gender-based violence can explain her participation in a violent crime, the letter states. Frank views the opportunity to speak before the board as a privilege, not an entitlement, said her attorney Letty Di Giulio. I think if she had spoken 28 years ago, she would sound very different to how she does now, said Di Giulio, pointing to Franks deep Christianity and a description of her client as a gentle and timid person. She has spent that time doing incredible self-help work. She told me recently: I sort of had to teach myself to have a voice, because I wasnt allowed to have one. I didnt really know what it sounded like. In just a few weeks, the parole board will hear it for the first time. It could be the difference between life and death. A Russian attack on the village of Antonivka, a suburb of the city of Kherson, injured two women and a man, Roman Mrochko, head of the Kherson city military administration, reported on Telegram on Sept. 28. At the time of publication, the severity of their injuries is unclear, but the three civilians were taken to a local hospital, Mrochko said. A video of the aftermath of the attack shared on Telegram showed smoke and damage to buildings. The extent of the destruction has not yet been reported. In Kherson Oblast, Russian attacks are an almost daily occurrence, often resulting in civilian injuries or deaths. Russian forces on Sept. 26 struck Kherson Oblast 93 times, firing 491 projectiles from various weapons, according to Governor Oleksandr Prokudin. Six people were killed and 10 were wounded. The attacks reportedly damaged an administration building, several educational institutions, a communal building, a dormitory, a pharmacy, a business, and a market. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine sends letter to G7 on use of Western parts in Shahed drones Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. BRENTWOOD Mark Brave, the Strafford County sheriff charged with using county money to fund trips amid his extramarital affairs and lying about it to a grand jury, had a not guilty plea entered for him Thursday as he faced eight felony charges. Brave appeared without an attorney for his arraignment in Rockingham County Superior Court, where the charges against Brave were read aloud. The court entered the plea for him on the theft, falsifying evidence and perjury charges because he did not have representation. "Absolutely not guilty," Brave said after the court hearing in a brief interview. Brave was previously represented by Shaheen and Gordon of Dover. Earlier this week, he said he hoped his attorneys could be rehired to represent him Thursday, but that didn't happen. He said Thursday he has closed on his home sale, is now renting a home in Dover and plans to rehire Shaheen and Gordon. He was given until Oct. 11 to submit proof of representation to the court. Strafford County Sheriff Mark Brave walks past a law enforcement officer while arriving in court, Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, in Brentwood, N.H. Brave, who plead not guilty, is accused of using his county credit card to pay for travel to fictitious business meetings with multiple paramours and then lying about it to a grand jury Brave's bail order was changed to allow him to transport his daughter to and from school in Lawrence, Massachusetts. Otherwise he's not allowed to leave New Hampshire. Brave, 38, could face up to 64 years in prison if he is found guilty of all charges. The case was moved out of Strafford County to avoid the appearance of conflict, according to the New Hampshire attorney general's office, which had Joe Fincham in court Thursday as prosecutor. Brave, reelected in 2022 to a second two-year term as sheriff, is a Democrat and was elected in 2020 as the state's first Black sheriff. He agreed Aug. 21 to go on paid leave after refusing requests from Strafford County's commissioners, administrator and county attorney for weeks. The allegations against Mark Brave Brave was arrested in August following an investigation spanning a year. The New Hampshire attorney general's office alleges Brave used $19,000 in county funds to travel and carry on multiple extramarital affairs, going to Florida, Boston and other locations, staying in hotels and eating in restaurants. The felony charges include one count of theft by deception (a Class A felony). He also faces two counts of falsifying physical evidence (both Class B felonies) and five counts of perjury (Class B felonies) for lying to a Strafford County grand jury during the investigation that first became public in June. More: Investigation details Sheriff Mark Brave's alleged lies about affairs, hotels and trips The investigation spans May 2022 through May 2023. It alleges misuse of funds for airfare, hotels, meals and a cruise. In many cases, Brave allegedly listed the expenses for conferences through agencies that do not exist, including a fictitious New England Sheriffs' Association. He also cited a trip to meet in Washington with Congressman Chris Pappas, D-New Hampshire, a meeting allegedly never scheduled. Brave's expenses were first brought to the attention of the attorney general in April by Strafford County commissioners after the sheriff's trip to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in August 2022, where his expenses were listed as $1,615.04 and included first-class airfare and an oceanfront hotel. "Tension was high": Strafford County's acting sheriff looks to rebuild after Brave's exit Brave, in multiple recent interviews, denied all allegations against him and stated they are a political and racist attack on him. All of the Strafford County commissioners are also Democrats. This article originally appeared on Fosters Daily Democrat: Sheriff Mark Brave pleads not guilty to theft of county funds A pivotal election is underway in Durham, with voters set to choose a new mayor and fill three City Council seats this fall. There are 12 people competing for the City Council seats, including two incumbents. A primary is being held to narrow the field. Early voting in the primary runs through Oct. 7 and Primary Day is Oct. 10. The top six candidates will proceed to the general election in November. Terms last four years. The seats are at-large, which means candidates can live anywhere in the citys. We collected questions from residents across Durham to help readers get to know the candidates. Sherri Zann Rosenthal Name: Sherri Zann Rosenthal Age: 66 Occupation: Retired attorney Website: SZRforCouncil.com Are we paying people competitively and keeping our promises to our workers? - East Durham resident Aidil Ortiz No. Staff vacancy rates impair delivery of city services to residents. Other cities continue to hire away our employees by paying fairly for their actual years of experience. The 2019 pay plan was approved by City Council after a full pay study. It was frozen in 2020. I support fully restoring worker pay in accordance with the 2019 pay plan, including back pay for the freeze period and appropriate pay for actual years on the job. Durham has 5-year employees being paid as if they are first- or second-year employees. Council should also set a cost of living increase. Do you have any experience that helps you understand development in Durham? How do you plan to get more affordable units in the city? - Planning commissioner Zuri Williams Having been through the rezoning and annexation process as a developer and then having long experience as a senior city attorney gives me more rounded perspectives on development. I am the only candidate who has actually created housing, a 22-home neighborhood still said to be the most energy-efficient in NC. The city hired me to help create the citys subsidized housing programs, and I retired three years ago as deputy city attorney. I also attended a year of planning school in England to gain a European perspective. I think we need a Comprehensive Housing Plan to be more responsive to community needs. As Durham grows more dense, how do we get away from the classic American model of car-oriented development? Are there any policies that you support that can keep us from becoming another Atlanta or Dallas? - Downtown resident Nirav Patel Willy-nilly rezoning and annexation by the current four-member council majority has created incredible sprawl without planning for the traffic and other infrastructure needs, and reinforces a 1960s car-centric model. Lets stop it. We need conscious densification of the core city that respects the scale and architectural heritage of existing neighborhoods, plans for storm water handling to preserve clean water, and systematically changes our street system to incorporate bus rapid transit and safely provide for expanded bicycle and pedestrian travel. What policies do you support for implementing safer streets and reducing car dependency locally and regionally? - Stadium Heights resident Nick Roberts The future is bus rapid transit (BRT). As we design this system, we have the opportunity to consider that not all streets have to accommodate all modes of travel, and instead adjacent streets can perform as a system. This will give us space to give some routes over to pedestrians and bicycles, perhaps in protected areas that run alongside BRT. Something rarely talked about is that women will not give up our cars unless we feel safe using mass transit, both while on it and in getting to and from the mass transit. Violence against women negatively shapes our society in many ways. What will you do to support the mental health needs of everyday Durham residents, especially thousands of young people in our public school systems? - Hillside High School senior Isaiah Palmer School funding and health services, including mental health, are state and county responsibilities. As with subsidized housing, the abdication of responsibility by the state puts a lot of pressure on local government. North Carolina has far fewer counselors in our schools than other states, or than national standards recommend. In addition, the General Assembly has gutted the state residential mental health system. Our city and county long ago divided up responsibility areas to try to limit redundancy. However, there may be parks and recreation programs, which are a city responsibility, that can help. In your vision for the city, what role does public education play and how does that connect to economic development, public safety and community health? - Fayetteville Street corridor resident Erika Wilkins The citys Economic Development Department and Workforce Development division should play a big role in expanding the links between Durham Public Schools and Durham Tech, as well as links with companies doing business in our area. With big companies like Apple, Google and Meta here and expanding, we need to be very deliberate in creating shared expectations of the contributions these companies will make to create shared prosperity and opportunity. Absolutely, people need positive outlets for their ambitions and wages that provide housing and food security in order to build positive community life. On the subject of alleged Clean Water Act violations in Falls Lake and its tributaries: How did we get here and who should be held responsible? Who is going to pay for the creek restoration and environmental damage? - Southeast Durham resident Pam Andrews I accompanied Neuse Riverkeeper Samatha Krop during testing of creeks and rivers in SE Durham. I believe both NCs Department of Environmental Quality and the city of Durham Planning Department, perhaps as a result of staff vacancies, have failed to enforce stream protection measures and to remedy violations. Some streams are functionally dead due to suffocation by erosion sediment. Stream bottoms should have the silt removed to allow the layering of life necessary for streams to be healthy. Developers who violate environmental and planning regulations should pay for remediation, as provided for by state and local law. How have you seen Durham evolve in your time here and whats one thing youll have the power to change if elected? - The News & Observer A lot of new development is so huge that it dwarfs human scale and the buildings beside them. They so max out the land they are on that there is no room for trees of significant size. Yet, much of this new, bulky development is very high-priced and doesnt provide affordable places for Durham residents to live in. I hope that Durham will create a Comprehensive Housing Plan that does a census of what kinds of housing we now have, where and in what price ranges, and then sets action targets to fulfill what new housing in what price ranges are lacking. To find polling places and full details on voting, visit the Board of Elections at dcovotes.com or 919-560-0700. Gina Stewart is the homeless coordinator for Harlan County Schools and this is her week so far: On Wednesday, she did a home visit to a family living in a shed. Then she got a call about a family living in a house with no door or windows or running water. Then she talked to a 14-year-old girl who had been in and out of so many foster homes, some of them abusive, she was going to be sent to a residential treatment center. This is what happens every day, five days a week, Stewart said. We just try to do our best. In Harlan County, one in three students, more than 1,000 kids, are homeless or facing housing insecurity. They might live with a family member or couch surf with friends. Or live in a shed. On Tuesday, Lexington got an eye-opening account of nearly 500 children who are homeless in our schools. T.C. Johnson, director of the federal McKinney Vento program for the Fayette County Public Schools, said she expects the number to climb to 900 by the end of the year. This is a crisis, Johnson said. Its a crisis all right. In Lexington. In Harlan. And in each of our 120 counties across the state. Last year, 21,486 Kentucky children were counted as homeless, which is 3 percent of our school population and the 10th-highest rate in the country. In Lexington, the reasons cascade into one another: a huge dearth of affordable housing in Fayette County, rising rent prices, more evictions, low wages, combined with an end to such COVID-era policies as increased food stamps, ARPA rent subsidies and the child tax credit. Top it off with higher gas and food prices, and as Johnson told me, If youre already at a disadvantage, rent becomes a unworkable financial hardship. In Harlan, the problems started with the now decades-long opioid crisis, which destroyed families either through neglect, death or incarceration, said Superintendent Brent Roark. Then theres the lack of any housing, much less affordable. Oh, then there is the complete lack of jobs after coals demise. The problem is so severe that there are homeless coordinators in all nine schools. The system in Eastern Kentucky, in Harlan County is broken, Roark said. The district is the largest employer in Harlan. Your school district should be supplying workers for your largest industry, not hiring to be the largest industry. Its a crisis that borne out of misfortune and public policy or lack thereof. The problem is so overwhelming, so enormous that its easier to put aside to think about for another time. Groups like the Kentucky Youth Advocates try to break it down into bite-sized pieces so people can digest its enormity. They recently issued a study finding that one in three graduates of the foster care system faced homelessness or housing insecurity. Thats a smaller segment of 18-24-year-olds. We just dont have enough housing across the state, said Karena Cash, a senior policy analyst on economic security. Only 2.2 percent of housing in Kentucky has been built since 2010. Supply is too low and prices are too high for many, whether they are off Nicholasville Road or up a hollow in Wallins. Kentucky is short 89,000 units of affordable housing statewide, said Adrienne Bush, executive director of the Homeless and Housing Coalition of Kentucky. We have to be both building and preserving more housing to meet the needs of current and future Kentuckians, Bush said. That requires money, and new policies around development. But the bottom line is there has to be money to build homes, that has to come from the federal government and states. Kentucky has traditionally not done that, but the rents skyrocketing coupled with people displaced from the disasters in Western and Eastern Kentucky means we have to think differently about how were doing housing. The market isnt going to take care of itself without any intervention, from our perspective. Here in Lexington, Ginny Ramsey has taken action (as she often does as director of the Catholic Action Center shelter) by starting private fundraising to help Fayette parents pay for rent and security deposits so their kids can have a home. That is wonderful. But charity is not a substitute for public policy. And, as Bush points out, the free market has done a lousy job on Kentuckys housing problems so far. It takes steps both big and small. It takes cities accumulating bigger pots of money to build affordable housing and bigger pots of money to house people in hotels so they can be quickly re-homed and not end up on the street. It takes better zoning that encourages infill and development. It takes successful state and federal policy like the ARPA eviction money and the child tax credit, which halved child poverty before Congress let it expire. The child poverty rate has now more than doubled from a record low of 5.2 percent in 2021 to 12.4 percent in 2022. Thats the macro view. Then theres the micro view from people like Gina Stewart and T.C. Johnson, who deal with these real world realities every single day. These kids are so traumatized, Stewart said. Theyre always moving around, and its so hard every day. Was it really only last week that the biggest story blowing out of Washington, D.C., like smoke from a Canadian wildfire was the announcement that the Senate, the self-described "world's greatest deliberative body" (fact check: FALSE), would no longer enforce its "voluntary" dress code, thereby letting 100 of the luckiest bastards on the face of the Earth have even less to fret over? And was it only late yesterday that the same legislators who couldn't be bothered to do any substantive work on the $6 trillionsomething budget for the fiscal year that starts on October 1 rallied to pass a binding dress code (more on that in a moment)? These things simultaneously seem like they happened sometime during the second Grover Cleveland administration and maybe 15 minutes ago. Such odd and intense minidramas about insignificant issues are the rule, not the exception, in contemporary politics, and leaders will do anything to avoid confronting serious issues, especially related to ballooning budgets (in nominal dollars, federal spending has more than tripled over the past 20 years). Now more than ever, we live in a 24/7 doom-loop of the "Roth Effect," which holds that the world is getting ever weirder and less believable on an hourly basis. Certainly, no serious novelist would have scripted last night's GOP presidential debate, which sounded more like a Samuel Beckett play put on by middle schoolers than a meaningful discussion about the country's future. "Senators are able to choose what they wear on the Senate floor," Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (DN.Y.) told the Associated Press last week, which pointed out that lowly aides and support staff don't get the same freedom. The rule change was reportedly made for the benefit of Pennsylvania Democrat John Fetterman, who suffered a stroke during his 2022 campaign against crudite-apocalypticist Mehmet Oz and is widely known for dressing in cutoffs and hoodies or, as he puts it, "like a slob." Fetterman is the Rubeus Hagrid of the Senate, an oversized, sometimes genial, sometimes irascible character who uses "assistive technology" due to his ongoing medical issues and who once threatened to beat me up on Bill Maher's Real Time (it's all good between us, really). It wasn't exactly cleareven to Fettermanwhy the change was necessary. "It's nice to have the option," he said, "but I'm going to plan to be using it sparingly." And yet, there he was, almost immediately presiding over the Senate in something less than a jacket and tie. Despite stakes so small you need a microscope to spot them, the commentariat couldn't let this pass. "Dress codes are a marker of social, national, professional or philosophical commonality," pronounced Southern Methodist University's Rhonda Garelick in The New York Times, in a lamentation titled "What We Lose When We Loosen Dress Codes." "A sea of 100 adults all dressed in some kind of instantly recognizable, respectful manner a suit and tie, a skirt and jacket creates a unified visual entity. A group in which individuals have agreed to subsume their differences into an overarching, sartorial whole." Yet even she had to admit that the Senate "has never been more divided" despite its longstanding informal dress code. Precisely how adding sweatpants into the mix was going to make things worse is unclear. New York Post political reporter Jon Levine, who helpfully exposed the designer of Democratic New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's notorious "Tax the Rich" Met Gala gown as a tax cheat, tossed on Fetterman garb and tried to get seated at the Big Apple's finest eateries. He mostly got turned away, but the three-Michelin-star Eleven Madison Park, where a nine-course, vegetarian tasting menu costs $365, told him he'd be welcome. What this proves is unclear, even if it provides raw material for Twitter feuds and Halloween costumes. The momentary suspension of the dress code roused to life the frustrated standups of the Senate, such as chucklemaster Susan Collins (RMaine), who joked, "I plan to wear a bikini tomorrow to the Senate floor." On a more somber note, Sen. Roger Marshall (RKan.) told the A.P.: "I represent the people of Kansas, and much like when I get dressed up to go to a wedding, it's to honor the bride and groom, you go to a funeral you get dressed up to honor the family of the deceased." Marshall is hardly alone in invoking funerals when discussing the Senate, where the median age of members is 65.3 years, by some accounts the second-oldest cohort in history. The only question: Who exactly is the corpse in his scenario? Maybe it's democracy itself. In 1974, Congress revised and updated its budget process into its current form, with the House and the Senate mandated to pass appropriations bills governing outlays for the coming fiscal year before it begins each October 1. You would think that authorizing federal outlayshowever misguided they may bewould be the minimum accomplishment of any given Congress, the equivalent of just showing up for class. Yet since 1977, the first year that the new rules were in effect, Congress has managed to actually get its budget work completely done on time just four timesin fiscal 1977, 1989, 1995, and 1997. Instead, it half-asses everything for as long as it can and then relies on various types of resolutions to keep on spending until our elected leaders get around to letting us know how much we're on the hook for. As the Pew Research Center notes, since fiscal 1997, "Congress has never passed more than five of its 12 regular appropriations bills on time. Usually, it's done considerably less than that: In 11 of the past 13 fiscal years, for instance, lawmakers have not passed a single spending bill by Oct. 1 (emphasis in original). That will almost certainly hold true for this fiscal 2024, alas. The inability to get anything done helps to explain the history of government shutdowns, including the most recentand longestone, which started in December 2018 and carried over into the next year. Absent some probable last-minute deal making, the next one is due to start on Sunday. Of course, shutdowns are far from the worst thing that can happen, especially given the massive and rampant waste in spending (most of which is on autopilot, coded as "mandatory spending" that doesn't need to be reauthorized each year). The hysteria that surrounds any minor hiccup in federal outlays is inevitably overwrought and ridiculous, but it is revealing nonetheless. It's good to know, for instance, that the Pentagon has unilaterally declared Ukraine aid sacrosanct. Sadly, the shutdowns don't actually prevent any spending from happening. They just push back its timing by a few days, weeks, or months. More important, shutdowns borne out of congressional laziness are a sign that our leaders are fundamentally unserious, regardless of whether they dress flamboyantly like Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (IAriz.) or rock Carhartt hoodies like Fetterman. The "new, enforceable" dress code that was pushed through last night by Sens. Mitt Romney (RUtah) and Joe Manchin (DW.Va.) calls for business attire for men"a coat, tie and slacks or other long pants." It's not exactly clear what it means for female senators, who caused a fuss by daring to wear pantsuits back in the 1990s. That passing a dress code will likely be among the greatest legislative achievements of Manchin and Romney (who is stepping down at the end of his current term) is a sad commentary on their Senate runs. Judging by their record when it comes to the budget process, it's too much to expect that members of the "world's greatest deliberative body" will do their jobs, much less actually cut spending, reduce the size and scope of government, or even forego alleged bribes. But at least there is one less distraction when it comes to holding them accountable for record-high levels of debt. The post Shut Up Already About John Fetterman's Slob Chic appeared first on Reason.com. (photo/Canva) The Sicangu Lakota Treaty Council will participate in the Biden Administrations first-ever White House Summit on Building Climate Resilient Communities. The Summit will explore effective climate resilience strategies that aim to help build communities that are resilient to the effects of climate change. Participants will develop a roadmap for the administrations National Climate Resilience Framework, which lays out objectives to align with investments to protect communities from the effects of climate change. The administration will also award more than $500 million in dedicated funding for new actions for climate resilience. Phil Two Eagle, Executive Director of the Sicangu Lakota Treaty Council, was invited to attend the Summit based on his climate leadership convening the Lakota Nation to develop adaptation plans that help them respond to environmental changes. The Oceti Sakowin Oyate (the People of the Seven Council Fires) have thrived across a large portion of North America for millennia. Our livelihoods have depended on the care and wise management of the land, and many of us carry these values with us to this day, Two Eagle said in a statement. It is natural that we mobilize our community to address the changing climate for the benefit of our people, and all our relations. The Lakota Nation is taking action to address climate issues, building a climate monitoring and data center. Their capacity to fully respond to climate emergencies has been limited by the federal governments continued violation of treaty rights. A recent example of treaty violations that have reduced the Lakota capacity to address climate change is that of the Dakota Access Pipeline. This pipeline cuts through treaty lands and puts local communities and their scarce water resources at risk. The pipeline is only one example among many that illustrate why the Oceti Sakowin requires the fulfillment of our treaty rights and complete sovereignty of our territory, Two Eagle explained in the press release. When empires occupy a place, they do not care for it because they do not live there. They exploit it and the people who dwell there. But because this land is our home, we care for it. 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 Fliers allegedly spotted hanging around a Canadian town have received backlash for calling local parents and kids to join a "whites-only" playgroup. Posts about the signs began appearing on social media Sunday, saying they had been spotted in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and other towns in the Metro Vancouver area of British Columbia, Canada. Photos show simple black-and-white posters headlined with the words "Whites-Only Moms & Tots" stuck to what appear to be public buildings. Some posts showed the sheets already partially ripped or torn down. The sign invites "proud parents of European children" to join the group if they are "looking for somewhere your children can play with others that look like them," are "tired of being a minority" or looking to "escape forced 'diversity'" and give children the "gift of time spent amongst their own people." At a bus stop in Port Coquitlam. pic.twitter.com/Ya1qnBo2T6 Doug Aoki (@Nantanreikan) September 24, 2023 Below the text is a QR code, link to a Telegram account and an email address. The Telegram group, which the QR code also led to, has since been deleted or moved, though pictures alleging to be screenshots from the chat still exist online. The email address has a proton mail domain, a service generally used by those concerned with keeping their identities private, as is also the case with the messaging app Telegram. USA TODAY reached out at the email address provided but did not receive a response. News outlet CBC News located some of the posters at a shopping mall in the Vancouver suburb of Coquitlam, which had also already been half torn down. White supremacist group sued: Boston lawsuit against Patriot Front highlights white supremacist group's rising legal tests City responds Mayor of Port Coquitlam Brad West called the signs "vile garbage" in a statement, saying they aren't welcome in the community. "As soon as it was brought to our attention, Bylaw officers immediately searched the area and all bus stops, but no signs were present. Perhaps being removed by someone else," he shared on X, formerly Twitter, adding that residents are encouraged to report any other signs to authorities. "The City of Port Coquitlam condemns this in the strongest terms and promotes an environment without hate," Mayor West shared. 1/Regarding a racist sign in our city: As soon as it was brought to our attention, Bylaw officers immediately searched the area & all bus stops, but no signs were present. Perhaps being removed by someone else. This vile garbage isnt welcome in our community, or anywhere else. Brad West (@BradWestPoCo) September 25, 2023 A statement by the city said the incident was originally reported by a resident who spotted one of the posters at a bus station. A file number has been opened by the city as part of an initiative to collect reports on hate-motivated events in a response to a rising number of these cases. Social media rife with hate: From Nazi propaganda to Holocaust denial, social media pushing hate on users, study says This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Signs reportedly advertising 'whites-only' playgroup condemned as 'vile' A memo from Sen. Kyrsten Sinema s political team is the latest signal the Arizona Independent is planning a reelection bid, teeing up an extraordinary three-way race in a critical swing state. Although Sinema has not confirmed her plans, a prospectus obtained by NBC News indicated shes gearing up for a potential run and outlined the shares of partisan voting blocs her political team believed she could garner. But strategists in the Grand Canyon State believe Sinema faces a difficult path to victory, underscoring the unpredictability of what will be one of the most closely watched races next year as Democrats look to hold onto their majority. I think Sen. Sinema is really going to put to the test that age-old mantra that voters want to elect people who will work across the political aisle to get things done, said Republican strategist Barrett Marson. Democrats and Republicans alike are bracing for a high-stakes Senate race in Arizona next fall that will prove critical for either partys hopes of capturing the majority in the upper chamber. Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) has announced a run on the Democratic side while Pinal County Sheriff Mark Lamb is running on the GOP side. Former gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake (R) is likely to make a final decision in October on whether she runs in the Senate race, her senior adviser Caroline Wren told The Hill last week. However, Lake is largely expected to announce a bid, and strategists believe she will easily clinch the GOP nomination. But Sinema, who late last year changed her partisan affiliation from Democrat to independent, has largely stayed mum on her plans. The prospectus from her campaign suggests, however, shes seriously considering reelection with a pathway that would include 60 percent to 70 percent of independent voters, 25 percent to 35 percent of Republican voters and 10 percent to 20 percent of Democratic voters, according to NBC News. Pollsters in the state say those numbers could be feasible for the senator, but executing that goal will be tricky. The prospectus is saying the same thing that we have been saying since she jumped the D ship last December. Our belief was 20% D, 25-30% R and 60+ Unaffiliated. That comes out to roughly 43% in a general, which should be enough to win, Republican strategist and pollster Chuck Coughlin said in an email. What is unsaid there, is how difficult it is. She has no partisan base and unaffiliated voters tend to be all over the place and largely remain [undecided] until late. Both of those partisan numbers will be difficult to reach, he continued. Very difficult campaign, but possible. Coughlin estimated that such an approach would require a highly expensive, highly aggressive messaging campaign potentially spending as much as $20 million during the cycle to target largely independent voters while also defending herself against attacks from Lamb and Gallego. But experts are warning not to count out Sinema this early in the primary. Prior to Kyrsten Sinema, Democrats couldnt win for the life of them statewide in Arizona, and she literally wrote the playbook and she always seems to be a little bit two steps ahead, pollster Mike Noble said. Still, polling so far in the primary, while early, suggests Gallego fares well in several potential three-way matchups. In polling from Noble Predictive Insights conducted in mid-July, a hypothetical three-way match between Gallego, Lake and Sinema found Gallego leading all three candidates at 34 percent, 25 percent and 26 percent, respectively. But a separate 15 percent said they were undecided. A separate one conducted in early August by Emerson College Polling found Gallego leading Lamb and Sinema in another hypothetical three-way race, with the Arizona Democrat receiving 36 percent, Lamb at 29 percent and Sinema at 21 percent. A separate 15 percent were undecided. Only one person is traveling the state and talking directly to Arizonans about creating good paying jobs, cutting the cost of prescription drugs, and taking care of our veterans, and thats Ruben Gallego, Gallego campaign spokeswoman Hannah Goss said in a statement. Hes laser focused on fighting for everyday Arizonans and thats why hes going to win this race, just as the data suggests, she added. Rick Gorka, a communications adviser for Lamb, slammed Sinema in his statement as ineffective and argued she was trying to have her cake and eat it too. She has enabled the Biden administrations abhorrent failure on our border while Arizonans suffer with higher costs for food, gas, and other necessities. It is time for her to be sent packing, he added. Sinemas campaign did not respond to requests for comment for this story. Some Democrats in the state are skeptical about Sinemas pathway to reelection and have soured on her. Former Democratic media consultant David Doak called Sinema a horrible senator and said he was supporting Gallego in the general election if Sinema runs. I think one of the things that people dislike about her most is that it appears that compromise is her goal, rather than good results produced by compromise, Doak said. Doak pointed to the issue of the filibuster, a procedural Senate rule that requires 60 senators to advance most pieces of legislation. Sinema and Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) have drawn the ire of Democrats for refusing to entertain the idea of changing the filibuster in an effort to pass legislation on issues like voting rights. Sinema has defended her stance on the filibuster, saying that the Senate procedural rule protects the democracy of our nation rather than allowing our country to ricochet wildly every two to four years referring to the idea that legislation could be easily undone or changed when a Senate majority changes. But her stance has angered Democrats. Its like with the filibuster We have to reach compromise, so therefore, you know, the filibuster is more important than voting rights, Doak said. Well, to a lot of people, that doesnt make much sense. John LaBombard, a former aide to Sinema, suggested Gallego doesnt fit the bill for the kind of Democrats who have been elected statewide in Arizona and argued that the prospectuss projected targets are eminently doable. Still, he acknowledged, a potential three-way race would be a dogfight and highly unpredictable. As the 2024 races continue to ramp up, Sinema will face increasing scrutiny over a timeline for a potential reelection run. Though some like LaBombard believe she has some time before making an announcement, others say she might need to make a move soon. If Im in that universe, Id be thinking about, Hey, who am I going to hire to run my campaign since my Democratic base has left me? Who am I going to hire as a pollster because my Democratic base has left me? Who am I going to hire as a grassroots operative since my Democratic base has left me?' said Coughlin, the Arizona-based pollster. Id be wantin pretty quickly to put a team together that can functionally work with me to narrate my candidacy, he added. Cause we know, you know, the worst thing that can happen is having a candidate run their own campaign. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Pava LaPere was remembered by colleagues and friends Wednesday as part of the glue holding together Baltimores small tech scene. The 26-year-old CEO of software startup EcoMap Technologies wasnt from Baltimore, but she moved there for college and quickly fell in love with the city. LaPeres body was found Monday at her apartment building with apparent signs of blunt-force trauma. Members of the citys tech community said LaPere was a fixture of conferences, happy hours and other meetups for Baltimore tech workers and founders; this year she had been recognized by Forbes magazine on its 30 Under 30 list. But people who knew LaPere said she also had big ambitions beyond her startup: She wanted to disrupt the tech industrys reigning power structure of white men and make way for more women and other people from disadvantaged groups. She was determined to shake up the industry and the good ol boys network, said Delali Dzirasa, CEO of Fearless, another Baltimore-based tech startup. Dzirasa said he spoke with LaPere on the subject as recently as last week in a phone conversation. I remember getting off the call and thinking, They better watch out, he said. It was nice to hear that energy in her voice. Baltimore police said LaPere was found dead Monday morning and are searching for a repeat violent offender, Jason Billingsley, as a suspect in the case. Billingsleys mother said Wednesday she has urged her son by text to turn himself in. Pav LaPere. (pavamarie via Instagram) LaPere was a native of Tucson, Arizona, who went to Johns Hopkins University for college, according to an interview posted on the universitys website. She studied computer science for three years before switching her major to sociology because, she said, she wanted to use entrepreneurship to solve inequalities in society. While in school, she led an organization to foster entrepreneurship and organized a conference for student entrepreneurs from across Maryland. Mac Conwell, a venture capitalist, said he met LaPere at that conference while she was attending college and was blown away by her optimism and charisma. She was the most exciting and ambitious and bubbly person, to the point where I asked myself, Is she for real? he said. As a senior at Hopkins she founded her startup, which less than five years later has about 30 employees and a client list that includes Meta, the owner of Instagram and Facebook, according to Forbes. EcoMaps products include chatbots and other resources for small businesses, trade associations and universities. It has raised $7.4 million from investors, including a funding round last month, according to research firm Crunchbase. Sharrod Davis, EcoMaps chief operating officer, said it was important to LaPere that the startup address inequality in society. She built this company that was focused on making information accessible to people who historically didnt have access to that information, he said. Friends said that LaPere was well aware of the small number of tech companies started by women, and how little of venture capitalists investment money they get. U.S. startups with women-only founders receive just about 2% of venture capital, according to research firm PitchBook, and that percentage has stayed roughly the same for more than a decade. Theyre overlooking women, and when they do, they rob society of all of the innovation that comes from all of that thought leadership and all of that potential, Dzirasa said. Like Dzirasas startup, EcoMap has committed to a 50/50% goal of employing a staff that is half women and half people of color. Conwell said that the last time he saw LaPere, he told her to make sure she was taking care of herself and making time for fun outside work. Her response showed her selflessness, he said: She said, Im working on those things, Mac, thank you, but once I become a millionaire Ill be able to help a lot more people and do a lot more things. Conwell said her approach was a good match with the broader Baltimore tech scene, which is much smaller than the tech sectors in major economic centers. The Baltimore-Towson area saw $122 million in venture capital fundraising activity in 2022, compared to $2.98 billion in nearby Washington, D.C., and its suburbs, according to PitchBook. As a result, many founders in Baltimore are focused on tech products that would make society more equal, Conwell said or equitech, for short. We dont want to be the next Silicon Valley. We want to be the first equitech city, he said. Wednesday night, hundreds of people gathered in the shadows of the historic George Washington monument in Baltimores Mount Vernon neighborhood to honor LaPere. The tech community showed up and remembered the 5-foot-2-inch LaPere as a giant who spoke fast and loudly and a visionary who saw potential in people. She knew what she wanted to accomplish, and there was nothing in the world that would get in the way of accomplishing that, her father, Frank LaPere, said. She was the definition of daddys little girl. She had me wrapped and still does, he said, his voice cracking. She turned from daddys little girl into being a girl boss. Were going to take her away from Baltimore, but her presence will never leave here," he said. Davis, EcoMaps COO, said the startup will be speaking with investors and others in the coming days to figure out whats next. My focus at this point is on the well-being of our team, he said. She inspired so many people through her brilliance, through her passion, through her zest for life, through her authenticity. And so, I just hope that everyone can take a little kernel of what Pava gave them and hold that with them. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Another Republican primary debate, you might be thinking, really? How much longer can this go on!? Dont despair! There are some potentially interesting things well be looking out for tonight. Trump is still beating everyone by a milebut theres been some notable movement within the second tier, and this debate is a chance for one of the candidates to solidify themselves as the top alternative to the former president. Jim Newell examines the state of play heading into the evening. Plus, Jill Filipovic asks: Who exactly is Nikki Haley for? The DOJ wants the judge overseeing Trumps 2020 election interference case to issue a gag order on the former president. Robert Katzberg breaks down one way she could make it work. Serjio74/iStock/Getty Images Plus A seismic change is coming to American transportation: electric vehicle charging stations are about to expand rapidly. Andrew Moseman has some bad news for gas stations. Plus: ICYMI, Nitish Pahwa looks at what an EV future means for organized labor. One of the longest strikes in Writers Guild history has come to an end. What happens now? Mary Harris spoke to New Yorker staff writer Michael Schulman, who has been covering the strike, about where Hollywood goes from here. about Supreme Court ethics rules, at least. At the end of the day, no compilation of ethical rules can guarantee integrity, the chief justice said. Yep! Steven Lubet takes stock of why the court can and will not be bound by an ethics code, and why we should focus our attention elsewhere. Photo illustration by Slate. Photos by Mike Carlson/Getty Images and Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images. The memes about Taylor Swifts new rumored relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce are fun and allbut the gender essentialism is a bit much. Though we can take jokes about a Swift/Kelce romance uniting women and the men in their lives lightly, as theyre intended, its also hard to ignore the darkness lurking around these jests, Heather Schwedel writes. She reflects on those undercurrents, and raises a few things to keep in mind. Kari Lake is on her third lawsuit related to the Arizona election she disputes. And theres more! As Lake is reportedly poised to launch a Senate run next month, Shirin Ali takes a look at what shes been up to since she lost the race for governor (and pretended she didnt). when Trump suggests the nations top general should be, uh, executed. It just seems par for the course at this point, you know? OK, yeah, youre rightthis is really not normal. Thanks so much for reading! Make sure to check out our debate coverage tonight, and well see you back in your inbox tomorrow. At last nights chaotic second GOP primary debate, the members of the fields second tier fought amongst themselves, as Trump was once again a no-show. But a few things about the 2024 election are becoming clearer, after last night. Namely: The candidates are starting to attack Trump directly. Jeremy Stahl, who was present at the Reagan Library for the debate, captures the atmosphere in the room, and how it felt like Trumps absence was finally starting to matter. Theres one issue that stands out as the biggest boogeyman hanging over the GOP field, Stahl writes. His testy exchange with former Arizona gubernatorial candidate and election denialist Kari Lake provides some sense of how thorny abortion is going to be in the general election. (Kari Lake! you might be thinking. Whats she been up to since she lost that governors race and pretended she didnt? Shirin Ali is here to catch you up.) Its still up in the air who will emerge as the dominant contender to Trump, but the list of who it could be is getting narrower. Jim Newell runs down who still seems to have a fighting chance, and who is a lost cause at this point. Plus, he recaps all the most cringeworthy jokes of the evening (come for serious political analysis, stay for Mike Pence trying to make a sex joke). To wit, Nikki Haley emerged from the evening with the only noncringeworthy zingers, Newell writes. Shirin Ali recaps the exchange that brought us Haleys best line of the evening. The Fox Business moderators asked an impressive array of tough questions. David Faris takes a look at the opportunities they gifted the candidates to distance themselves from wildly unpopular policy positionsand how they all said no, thanks! And Alexander Sammon homes in on a big question that wasnt asked Wednesday night: What about tax cuts for the rich? Between the UAW, WGA, and SAG strikes, the narrowly averted Teamsters strike, and many others, 2023 has been a big year for organized labor. And theres another huge benefit to all this: Terri Gerstein explains why unions may be saving democracy. As the start of the Supreme Court term approaches next week, Dahlia Lithwick takes a look at whats in store, particularly the possibility of gun rights for abusers post-Bruen and the impossible tension between medicine and the law post-Dobbs. CDC/ Janice Haney Carr Thanks to climate change, flesh-eating bacteria infections (though still quite rare!) are on the rise. Bill Sullivan explains how to protect yourself. Remember that whole flap where David Brooks complained about spending $78 on a burger and fries at Newark Airport last week? Luke Winkie couldnt help but feel he was on to something. They do rob you at the airport, dont they? he writes. I dont want to play devils advocate for David Brooks, but I do think we might have missed the forest for the trees here. Winkie spoke with Blaise Waguespack, a professor who specializes in the air-travel industry, to find out why airport food is so expensiveand found theres actually a (somewhat) reasonable explanation. The largest form of criminal punishment in the United States isnt prisonand its still awful, Cristian Farias writes. He explains why probation and parole simply arent working. Photo illustration by Slate. Photo by FX. Reservation Dogs is the best television show about teens that weve seen in recent years, Nadira Goffe writes. Now that its coming to an end, she spoke with co-creator Sterlin Harjo about the show and its themes of life, love, death, and community. much like Cat Cardenas was by the arrival of Spy Kids. She explains why shes been preaching the gospel of the franchise to anyone who will listen. Thanks so much for reading! Well see you tomorrow. Candidates Tim Scott , Ron DeSantis , and Vivek Ramaswamy made waves in some of their remarks on Wednesday nights debate stage. Candidates for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination participated in the partys second national debate on Wednesday night, and the topic of race was noticeably on display. During the two-hour debate between seven of the GOP White House hopefuls, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was asked about his states new Black history curriculum that teaches students that Black people benefited from chattel slavery due to the skills they developed while enslaved. (Left to right) Republican presidential candidates Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy and U.S. Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) participate in the FOX Business Republican Primary Debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library on Sept. 27, 2023, in Simi Valley, California. Seven presidential hopefuls squared off in the second Republican primary debate as former U.S. President Donald Trump , currently facing indictments in four locations, declined again to participate. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) The Florida governor quickly dismissed the question as a hoax that was perpetrated by [Vice Preisdent] Kamala Harris. When asked what his message was to the descendants of slaves who were hurt by the controversial course, DeSantis punted that the Black history course was written by descendants of slaves referring to two conservative Black men who serve on the state board that approved the new curriculum. Our countrys education system is in decline because its focused on indoctrination, said DeSantis, who championed his education policies as a win for parental rights. We eliminated critical race theory, and we now have American civics and the Constitution in our schools in a really big way. Florida State Sen. Shevrin Jones dismissed DeSantis attempt to punt criticisms of the states Black history program on Vice President Harris, who in July delivered a fiery speech in Florida condemning it. Gov. DeSantis tends to use other people as his scapegoat, while he is the one who has created these policies, Jones told theGrio. Kamala Harris didnt ban books. Kamala Harris didnt reject African American studies. Kamala Harris didnt say that slavery was a benefit to the enslaved. Jones, a vocal critic of the governor, said Floridians are worse off since he took office. Property insurance is up, we have the largest teacher shortage in Floridas history, and we lead the nation with the most uninsured, he added. America doesnt need him as its leader. Marcus Board Jr., associate professor of Black politics at Howard University, told theGrio that DeSantis connecting a Black scholar to his defense of his states Black history curriculum tells us that he understands the currency of racial politics in America enough to know that he cant do any of this alone. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis speaks during the second Republican presidential primary debate on Sept. 27, 2023, at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California. (Photo by Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images) He added, But DeSantis will remain alone neither Black people nor Republicans support his presidential candidacy. Christina M. Greer, associate professor of political science at Fordham University, said DeSantis is literally giving contracts to book companies that are creating materials that essentially say that slavery wasnt that bad. Doing so will only put the students in Florida way behind other students in the country for many, many years to come, she told theGrio. I think some people are starting to realize thatand that might be part of the reason why hes doing so poorly, said Greer. The Republican Partys lone Black presidential candidate, U.S. Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, also condemned DeSantis Black history course, saying on the debate stage, There is not a redeeming quality in slavery. While Senator Scott acknowledged that Americans suffered because of slavery, he said the country has overcome it. We are the greatest nation on Earth because we faced our demons in the mirror and made a decision, he said. Scott continued, Black families survived slavery. We survived poll taxes and literacy tests. We survived discrimination being woven into the laws of our country. The senator then repeated a phrase that garnered controversy in 2021: America is not a racist country. Republican presidential candidate U.S. Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) delivers remarks during the FOX Business Republican Primary Debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library on Sept. 27, 2023, in Simi Valley, California. Seven presidential hopefuls squared off in the second Republican primary debate as former U.S. President Donald Trump, currently facing indictments in four locations, declined again to participate. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) Greer said Scott is denying the realities that are in front of our faces. She explained that denying that racism still exists in America is a type of mindset that he knows his partys in, and for him to be a part of it, he has to sort of adopt the nonsense. The political scientist said that while Scotts remarks were disappointing, they were not surprising. Similarly, Professor Board of Howard said, Scott knows that his audience is invested in America as a flawless symbol of global triumph. He suggested that Scott, a likely longshot to the Republican nomination, is really using the presidential debate stage to audition as the vice presidential running mate to former President Donald Trump, who has for months maintained an overwhelming lead in national polls. In the same way that DeSantis attaches a Black educator to his problematic education, Scott is similarly volunteering himself as an attachment for the next Republican presidential nominee. Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy waves at the end of the second Republican presidential primary debate on Sept. 27, 2023, at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California. (Photo by Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images) Businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, who has been fashioned as a Trump 2.0, also made waves during last nights Republican debate when he suggested that based on his interpretation of the 14th Amendment, those who are born in the U.S. with parents who entered in the country illegally should not be granted birthright citizenship. I favor ending birthright citizenship for the kids of illegal immigrants in this country, said the 38-year-old son of Indian immigrants. If the kid of a Mexican diplomat doesnt enjoy birthright citizenship, then neither does the kid of an illegal migrant who broke the law to come here. Professor Greer of Fordham suggested an irony in Ramaswamys stance on birthright citizenship, considering he himself is an anchor baby. But more importantly, she said, he denigrates other immigrants in the process. Somehow, hes trying to convince members of his party thatyoure being essentially the most draconian Republican when it comes to immigration, said Greer. Essentially, his entire platform is to make it more difficult for immigrants read people of color to participate in American democracy. Gerren Keith Gaynor Gerren Keith Gaynor is a White House Correspondent and the Managing Editor of Politics at theGrio. He is based in Washington, D.C. TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, and Android TV. Please download theGrio mobile apps today! The post From slavery to citizenship, race emerged at second Republican presidential debate appeared first on TheGrio. Event held to boost exchanges between China's Hubei and Macao as well as Portuguese-speaking countries Xinhua) 09:01, September 28, 2023 WUHAN, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- A promotion event, designed to boost economic and trade cooperation and exchanges between China's Hubei Province and Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) as well as Portuguese-speaking countries, was held on Wednesday in Hubei provincial capital Wuhan. The Wuhan branch of the pavilion for import products from China's Macao SAR and Portuguese-speaking countries and regions was also inaugurated Wednesday. It will provide services for Portuguese-speaking countries and regions in carrying out product promotion, exhibitions and business negotiations, among others, in central China cities. Zhang Xiaomei, head of the Foreign Affairs Office of the Hubei Provincial People's Government, noted that the Portuguese-speaking countries have a huge market of nearly 300 million people, rich resources and global geographical advantages. Zhang added that Hubei, a major Chinese province in terms of economy, science and education, ecological conservation and agriculture, boasts advantages in such sectors as new energy and intelligent connected vehicles, life sciences and health, high-end equipment and the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System. Macao has the unique advantage of being bilingual in both Chinese and Portuguese, and thus acts as an important bridge between China and Portuguese-speaking countries, Zhang said. The event was jointly hosted by the Foreign Affairs Office of the Hubei Provincial People's Government, the Permanent Secretariat of the Forum for Economic and Trade Co-operation between China and Portuguese-speaking Countries (Macao), and the Hubei Sub-Council of China Council for the Promotion of International Trade. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) LOS ANGELES The debate over capital punishment in California has resurfaced with the family of slain Los Angeles County Sheriffs Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer incensed by District Attorney George Gascons decision not to seek the death penalty for the alleged killer. I dont feel [Gascon] felt my sons life was worth anything, Kim Clinkumbroomer, his mother, told KTLAs Rich Chambers on Wednesday. Youre telling me that this individuals life is more important than my sons. Hes just making us feel like were nobody, and were not important enough and Ryans life wasnt important enough, Brittany Lindsey, Clinkunbroomers fiancee, told us. Ryan Clinkunbroomer, Brittany Lindsey Prosecutors say Kevin Salazar, 29, fatally shot Clinkunbroomer with a .22-caliber revolver on Sept. 16 as the deputy was stopped at a red light in his patrol vehicle near the Palmdale Sheriffs Station. Salazar, whose family says suffers from mental health issues, was arrested two days later after a standoff at his Palmdale home. According to ABC News, Salazar has confessed. Capital punishment is still an option for California prosecutors. However, it has been 17 years since an inmate was executed in the Golden State, and, in 2019, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order enacting a moratorium. The debate over executing inmates in California and elsewhere has often fallen along party lines with more Republicans supporting its use than Democrats. That said, a 2021 Pew Research Center survey found that 60% of American adults, regardless of political party, favor the death penalty for those convicted of murder. Man arrested in slaying of L.A. County deputy schizophrenic, family says In his executive order, Newsom called the death penalty system a failure that has discriminated against the mentally ill, poor, and people of color, and has wasted billions of taxpayer dollars through endless appeals. Opponents also argue that the death penalty does not serve as a deterrent to violent crime. Instead, Gascon says his office will pursue what he calls the maximum punishment available in the Salazar case, meaning life in prison without the possibility of parole. I run on a very clear platform and that was I would never seek the death penalty, he told KTLA. Clinkunbroomers family disagrees and said they were blindsided by the announcement of the charges during the Sept. 20 press conference. Just to say that its okay for [Salazar] to spend the rest of his life in prison that were going to try to seek the maximum penalty. If youre trying to seek the maximum penalty, its the death penalty. Gascon, however, said he remembers the timeline of events differently. Im very sorry and going back, maybe I should have been more clear, Gason said of the moments before the public announcement. I talked to the family before we went out, when we were in the green room and I said, We are seeking life without the possibility of parole. Gascon said he stands behind his decision. Even if the death penalty were sought and a jury handed down such a sentence, it is highly probable that the individual would die of natural causes before being executed, he said. If found guilty, this person will never be released from prison. Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomers funeral is scheduled for Oct. 5. He will be laid to rest at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Glendale. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. MUNCIE, Ind. A century later, it's largely an abandoned lot, empty save for a few vehicles, including a church bus, that are apparently in need of repairs. North of Kirby Avenue, south of the railroad tracks and between Monroe and Vine streets, an alley that divided the block is no longer visible. Buildings, including a warehouse that once stood there, are also gone. The scene, along East Kirby Avenue, where Muncie police officer Anthony Hellis was killed in the line of duty in September 1923. In the early autumn of 2023, there is nothing to reflect the drama and tragedy that played out here on the early afternoon of Sept. 30, 1923, when Anthony Charles "Toney" Hellis became the first Muncie police officer to be gunned down in the line of duty. In the ten decades since, two other city police officers James Ovid McCracken in 1932 and Gregg Winters in 1990 have been the victims of fatal shootings. The killing Anthony Hellis his nickname during his lifetime was reported to be both Tony and Toney, with the latter choice found on his tombstone at 25 was the youngest officer on the Muncie Police Department in September 1923. He was married and the father of two sons, both under the age of three. He had joined the MPD two years earlier, in September 1921. Hellis was also an Army veteran of World War I, serving 13 months in Europe and taking part in the pivotal Battle of Argonne Forest. (The fighting spanned several weeks in the autumn of 1918, resulting in more than 50,000 American and German deaths.) Prohibition went into effect in the United States in 1920, and surviving court records from 1921 through 1923 reflect many cases involving Officer Hellis that stemmed from alcohol-related arrests. Around noon on Sunday, Sept. 30, 1923, officers Hellis and Michael Flaherty were sent to the 400 block of East Kirby Avenue, where Claude Glenn Michaels, 45, was reported to be menacing his estranged wife, Ethel Anna, while brandishing a handgun. Michaels a former employee at Warner Gear and Campbell Ice Cream & Milk Co. in recent weeks had separated from his spouse, taking a job in the Fort Wayne area and returning to Muncie on the weekends. Michaels had reportedly been consuming alcohol that morning friends would later maintain he had not previously been known as a heavy drinker and made comments about harming his wife when he made two stops at her brother's house and when he arrived at the home they had shared on Kirby. As Hellis and his colleague approached the scene, a woman warned them that Michaels who apparently had no prior criminal record was in the area, armed with a handgun, and had announced he would "never be arrested alive." At some point the officers either saw Michaels a few blocks east of his family's home, or were told where he had last been observed. The officers split up as they approached the area. As Hellis made his way north up the alley from Kirby Avenue, Michaels apparently emerged from the side of a building, previously owned by Indianapolis Brewing Co., and shot the officer. Delaware County Coroner J. Frank Downing, a Muncie physician, would later say the .32-caliber bullet had entered Hellis' torso above his left hip, tore through his heart and came to rest in his chest. It was a fatal shot. Hellis fell to the ground, onto his back. Muncie police officer Anthony Hellis and the local man who killed him, Claude Michaels, are shown in photos published in local newspapers in the wake of the September 1923 homicide. Before fleeing. Michaels shot the fallen Muncie officer two more times. One of those bullets passed through the victim's rib cage and "severed the spinal cord," according to the coroner. The other struck Hellis' left kidney, stomach and left lung, Downing said. As he fled from the scene, Michaels exchanged gunshots with two other city officers Flaherty, who had been south of where Hellis had fallen, and William Laflin, a Muncie police sergeant who just happened to be in the area as he returned to work from lunch. One of Michaels' bullets passed through "the crown of Flaherty's hat," The Muncie Evening Press reported. As Michaels observed running east, then south and finally west went out of view, Laflin and Flaherty turned their attention to their dying comrade. Hellis was placed in a citizen's car and rushed to Home Hospital, along South Mulberry Street, where he would be pronounced dead. The manhunt Officers almost immediately conducted an exhaustive search of the city's south side in a bid to find Michaels. They were not successful, although related tips began to pour in. Sunday afternoon, a witness saw a man jump off a freight car as it pulled into Richmond, prompting speculation the murder suspect was likely bound for Cincinnati and then Kentucky. That night, a group of Muncie officers went to Fort Wayne after receiving a report that a man had dropped dead on a downtown street, apparently after ingesting poison. It wasn't Claude Michaels. Other possible Michaels sightings were reported in New Castle, Marion, Mount Pleasant and near Union City. Delaware County government officials said they would pay a $500 reward for information leading to the capture of Hellis' killer. Interviewed by local reporters, longtime acquaintance William Chawning called Michaels "sort of a bully" "He always did want to have his own way." Chawning said. Police kept watch on the house of the suspect's brother along East North Street where Michaels had been staying on his return trips from Fort Wayne and the home of Michaels' sister in Matthews, where their mother had been staying since their father died in January. Michaels and his wife were originally from the DeSoto area in Delaware Township, and had four children, one of them already married by 1923. On the afternoon of Wednesday, Oct. 3, The Evening Press reported what it called a "wild rumor" that Michaels had returned to his family's Kirby Avenue home that morning and killed himself. It wasn't true, as the article noted. That day, Anthony Hellis was laid to rest in Beech Grove Cemetery after a funeral at St. Lawrence Catholic Church drew hundreds of mourners. A procession made up of police officers from Muncie, Anderson, Alexandria and Marion, among other communities and private citizens made its way from the church to the cemetery, where a "double firing squad" from the local Veterans of Foreign Wars post fired a 21-gun salute. The grave, in Muncie's Beech Grove Cemetery, of city police officer Anthony Hellis, who was killed in the line of duty in September 1923. On the early morning of Thursday, Oct. 4, a carrier delivering copies of that morning's Muncie Star found a body on the front porch of the Michaels' home. It was Claude Michaels. Coroner Downing would rule he had died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in the chest, with the bullet striking both his heart and left lung. Ethel Anna Michaels told investigators she had been awakened by what sounded like a gunshot about 2:30 a.m., followed by "two or three groans." But she maintained when she and her daughter looked outside, into the darkness, they hadn't seen anyone. The Evening Press that day said Claude Michaels, "wearied by a never-ending pursuit, tired, hungry and haggard, went to (his) family home, at 428 Kirby, and shot himself in the heart." The handgun "which twice in less than one week dealt death" was found on the porch near his body, the story added. When police arrived, Michaels' "big blue eyes" were open, "staring at the sky." Officers said the Muncie man was wearing the same clothing, now muddy, that he had on when Sunday's shooting occurred. There was speculation he had been hiding at the old Midland Steel Works plant near 15th and Walnut streets. Michaels would be buried in a family plot at the Union Church Cemetery in DeSoto. The Evening Press boasted its Wednesday story about the rumored suicide "was given credit by the authorities for instilling the suicide idea in Michaels' mind." The Star, meanwhile, touted its association with the young newspaper carrier who found the body, William L. Crouse. The aftermath Michaels' suicide meant there would be no trial or convictions stemming from Officer Hellis' murder. City officials, perhaps seeking scapegoats, set their sights on other targets. Officers Laflin and Flaherty, both of whom had exchanged gunshots with Michaels, on Oct. 15 were dismissed from the Muncie Police Department. When Flaherty told the Board of Public Safety he had fired all of the bullets in his handgun at the killer, a board member said he should have retrieved Hellis' firearm and continued his pursuit. The board also said the officers should have left care of the mortally wounded Hellis to bystanders and made pursuit of the killer their only priority. Laflin said his "impulse was to take my wounded brother officer to the hospital." "It wasn't a case of cowardice," he maintained. (Laflin, 57 at the time of his dismissal, later moved to Washington, D.C., where he died in 1937. Flaherty, about the same age as Laflin, became a night watchman at Indiana Steel and Wire. He later moved to California, where he died in 1947.) Within hours of the slaying, an effort was underway to raise funds to benefit Hellis' widow, Rhea, and her two young sons. "Tony Hellis died for you," a headline on an article seeking donations read. By March 1924, more than $2,600 had been collected, used to purchase a "seven-room cottage" for the Hellis family in the 1200 block of West 10th Street. In 1931, Rhea Hellis remarried, to William McKinley, one of several Delaware County residents who were cousins of the late president with the same name. She died in 1978. Her oldest son, Charles, died in 2000 in Terre Haute, where he had moved. (One of Charles' children, Anthony Paul "Tony" Hellis, had apparently been named for his late grandfather.) The younger son of the slain officer, Albert, died in July 1998, in Muncie. (Claude Michaels' widow, Ethel Anna, also remarried, in 1924. She was 91 when she died in 1975.) Anthony Hellis' tombstone in Beech Grove Cemetery does not reflect his status as a fallen police officer. It does, however, note his service in World War I. Hellis is buried in close proximity to several family members who outlived him, including his parents and siblings. Hellis' name also appears near the top of a memorial in the city's downtown Policeman's Park. Each May, during the national observance of Police Week, his name is read aloud, along with those of three other city officers who died in the line of duty, at an annual memorial service. 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: 100 years later, first slaying of Muncie police officer recalled The Cal Fire captain convicted of groping a coworker withdrew his plea during a Wednesday court hearing, and now the case will face trial. Cal Fire captain James Peter Thomas, 59, was accused of assaulting his 37-year-old coworker, Carrie Young, on Dec. 20, 2020. He was charged with misdemeanor sexual battery in January 2021 and pleaded no contest to the crime on May 1. A no contest plea functions the same as a guilty plea without admitting direct fault. Misdemeanor sexual battery requires sex offender registry for 10 years as a direct consequence of the crime, San Luis Obispo Superior Court Judge Michael Frye said. Thomas claimed he was unaware of this in court Wednesday. San Luis Obispo County Deputy District Attorney Bianca Agoyo told San Luis Obispo Superior Judge Michael Frye that Thomas had been advised on multiple occasions about the requirement he register as a sex offender, both before and after he entered his plea. Agoyo also noted that the probation department goes over the parameters of pleas with defendants, adding that withdrawing the plea the day Thomas is supposed to be sentenced does raise suspicion. Thomas lawyer Kevin Gres said that it doesnt matter what was discussed with his client prior to his plea. The issue is whether he understood the consequence of what entering the plea would be. Frye said he reviewed minutes of previous hearings, but because court reporters are not required for misdemeanors, the court record is unclear as to whether Thomas was advised and understood he would be registering as a sex offender if he entered his plea. Frye ultimately ruled in favor of Thomas, setting a trial date for Oct. 30. At the hearings conclusion, Young left the courtroom in tears. I just dont understand, she told one of her parents as they hugged. Young told The Tribune she was working as a chiefs assistant at the time of the assault. The trauma she endured, she said, eventually led to suicidal ideation, coping with substances and eventually homelessness. The legal process continued to retraumatize Young for the past three years, she told The Tribune. She was looking forward to putting the case behind her so she could focus on her emotional healing. She settled a $1.75 million negligence claim against Cal Fire on Aug. 31 and now has a roof over her head for the first time in a year. According to her Instagram, she was excited for the last court date to be done with. Instead, the case will continue to trial, where she will now likely have to testify. Army Pvt. Travis King , who was released from North Korea this week after crossing over into the country this summer, is back on U.S. soil, according to videos shared by news outlets in Texas. King was seen departing from a plane that landed in San Antonio, where he is expected to receive treatment for post-isolation therapy at a hospital, according to a local NBC station. The American service member was taken into U.S. custody Wednesday after he was released by North Korea. The U.S. transferred him from China, which was a vital partner in bringing King back home, Biden administration officials said this week. Swedish diplomats also helped to secure the release of King. Sweden has an embassy in Pyongyang. King is expected to see his family and recover for the moment, but he may eventually face disciplinary action as he was labeled AWOL after crossing over into North Korea in July during a civilian border tour. Its unclear exactly why King fled into North Korea, but he was expected to be transferred back to U.S. soil after he was hit with an assault conviction during his post in South Korea. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Soldier Travis King has touched down on US soil after being expelled from North Korea, a Defense Department official said. Mr King, 23, arrived at Kelly Field at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston at around 1:30 am ET on Thursday morning, the official told CNN. The soldier was seen being escorted off a plane by several people and was taken to another area of the military base. It comes nearly two months after Mr King was taken into North Korean custody after he made a sudden dash across the border into the country while on a guided tour in the demilitarised zone separating the North and South. Washington declined to declare him a prisoner of war despite heated debate within the government. State news agency KCNA reported on Wednesday that Mr King had confessed to illegally entering the country back in July. But following months of intense diplomacy, Mr King was turned over to American authorities by North Korea in China yesterday. Pyongyang reportedly deported him after concluding its investigation into his illegal entry into the country, a report said. In a statement, White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan praised what he described as the dedication of the interagency team that has worked tirelessly out of concern for Private Kings wellbeing. A senior US official who briefed reporters on the developments said the US government had successfully facilitated his departure from North Korea following what the official described as a months-long effort involving multiple US government agencies which had been undertaken out of concern for Private Kings well-being and a desire to reunite him with his family. Photo of Travis King shared by his family (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) The official added that the US had been reaching out to Pyongyang through multiple channels over the last two months including through the United Nations and the United Nations Command which oversees the allied military presence in South Korea to gain information on Mr Kings welfare and to secure his safe return home. It is understood that Mr King fled across the border into North Korea on 18 July rather than board a US-bound plane to face discipline by military authorities at home. Prior to this, the soldier had been detained for more than 40 days in a South Korean penal facility after he was convicted on assault and destruction of private property charges. On his release on 10 July, he was scheduled to return home to his home base at Fort Bliss in Texas, the SCMP previously reported. But he skipped the flight and crossed into North Korea. North Korea previously claimed that its investigation into Mr Kings crossing had revealed that he was seeking refuge in the country due to inhuman treatment in the US military, antipathy to racism and disillusionment with the unequal US society. A Defence Department official said the militarys focus at this time is caring for Private King and his family, and stressed that upon arrival in the US, he will be evaluated by some very talented, experienced and experienced team who will guide him through a reintegration process that will address any medical and emotional concerns and ensure we get him in a good place to reunite with his family. The official said questions of the soldiers disciplinary status and any possible court-martial would be resolved following completion of his reintegration. One of the Republican Partys top missions is to take women's reproductive autonomy away, and yet the seven GOP presidential candidates on stage at the Reagan Library were barely asked to address their radical stance. In fact, despite the reality that every single one of the GOP hopefulsincluding the absent former President Donald Trumpis anti-choice, it wasnt until the last 15 minutes of the second Republican debate that the topic was even raisedand only to two candidates. And those of us watching the mayhem on stage barely heard their responses, one of which was to parrot the Republican Party lie about Democrats supporting abortions into the ninth gestational month. Newsflash, thats not a thing. And the GOP hopefuls know it, but they lie anyway. Martha Plimpton: We Must Fight for Abortion and LGBTQ Rightsand Our Own Bodies That candidates were permitted to skirt the issue and promote falsehoods with no fact-checking is simply absurd. Especially given that abortion rights have dominated every election since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade last yearand have driven record numbers of voters to the polls. With the 2024 election looming, it is alarming that a discussion of the most fundamental rights of 51 percent of the American population was treated like an afterthought. How could the moderators not have pressed for focus on this issue? The second GOP debate Wednesday night was, for the most part, a showcase for candidates to trot out their usual talking pointsand fear-mongeringon the economy, national security, healthcare, immigration, and more. These are undoubtedly vital issues that deserve serious attention, but the omission of reproductive rights from the conversation until near the closing moments was incredibly conspicuous. A recent CNN poll confirmed what weve long known to be true: Abortion rights will continue to be a defining issue in 2024, and the overwhelming majority of Americans support reproductive freedom. Despite all the GOP hopefuls being anti-choice, they are at odds with voters. Nearly 80 percent of Americans believe decisions regarding abortion should be left to patients and their doctors. And the American Medical Association has declared abortion bans a violation of human rights. When one of the debate moderators finally dared to broach the topic, Fox News host Dana Perino asked Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, not about his political beliefs that ignore medical facts, but about how he plans to win crucial purple states, where his hard line on abortion is likely to be a drag on his chances with independent pro-choice voters. DeSantis, who has threatened to take executive action to curb reproductive healthcare access if elected, replied, I reject this idea that pro-lifers are to blame for midterm defeats, adding, The former president He should be here explaining his comments to try to say that pro-life protections are somehow a terrible thing Tell people whove been fighting this fight for a long time. And then he went on to parrot the lie that Democrats support abortion up until birth, which went unchecked. Isnt that great? One softball question about the entire partys full-frontal assault on womens rights, and all we get is a DeSantis stump speech where he runs to the right of Donald Trump. And then what? We all are just supposed to move on to the next Nikki Haley-Vivek Ramaswamy slap fight, as if the issue of reproductive autonomy is a minor distraction to a cage match battle royale? (The question, with no followup, was such a gift to DeSantis that one prominent mainstream conservative commentator said DeSantis should just make the entire clip into a campaign ad.) Reproductive rights are not just a social issue; they represent a core aspect of individual autonomy, personal freedom, and gender equality. They affect, at minimum, 51 percent of the American population. They are central to the lives of millions of us who deserve to hear where the candidates stand. By leaving reproductive rights unmentioned until the last 15 minutes, the debate moderators trivialized the concerns of millions of Americans who have been fighting for their right to make decisions about their own bodies. This delay allowed the candidates to dodge accountability for their positions. Moreover, the limited time devoted to reproductive rights prevented any chance at a meaningful and nuanced discussion on the topic. Its challenging to engage in a comprehensive dialogue in such a rushed environment. Critical follow-up questions went unexplored because the moderators barely skimmed the surface of the topic. Former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy and Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) speak during the second Republican presidential primary debate hosted by Fox News at Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif., Wednesday, September 27, 2023. Melina Mara/The Washington Post via Getty Images We deserve answers. Where do the candidates stand on abortion access? On contraception access? And what about comprehensive sex education? (Both of which lower abortion rates around the country.) Voters deserve to know each candidate's opinion ofand plans to vote onhealthcare policies that affect reproductive choices. It is essential to recognize that reproductive rights are not solely a partisan issue. There are Republicans who support a womans right to choose, just as there are Democrats who hold more conservative views on this matter. The lack of attention to this issue not only alienates a substantial portion of the electorate but stifles any chance at a healthy debate within the GOP itself. It also allows candidates to dodge the radical behavior of their own partywhich claims to be the party of family values, but is currently careening our entire nation toward a shutdown that will negatively impact millions of Americans, all so that 25 party radicals can feel powerful. Among the things these GOP extremists are demanding as they threaten a shutdown? They want to see us cut $14.7 billion to public schools in high-poverty areas, 70 percent of nutrition assistance for children, and slash $750 million from the budget of Head Start. The party of so-called family values is willing to let an estimated 39 percent of all infants go hungry. You can see why so many constituents rightly call the GOP a pro-forced birth partybecause they do not care what happens to babies once they are out of the womb, and it seems that for the Republicans, the cruelty is the point. Republican presidential candidate Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis delivers remarks during the FOX Business Republican Primary Debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library on September 27, 2023 in Simi Valley, California. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images I would wager that this is why the debate barely skimmed the surface on where reproductive rights would stand under GOP leadership. Its tough to capitalize on the opportunity to demonstrate that the Republican Party can engage in thoughtful, respectful, and inclusive conversations about reproductive rights if thats, in fact, an impossibility for the party. The GOPs barbaric abortion policies have resulted in women coming close to death across the country, with some miscarrying mothers being denied care until they lose their ability to ever have children in the futurelike Mayron Michelle Hollis, who lost her uterus because she couldnt receive timely care in Tennessee, and Amanda Eid, who nearly died of sepsis in Texas before doctors could treat her miscarriage without fear of being imprisoned. These women and their families deserve to be acknowledged by the party who sentenced them to suffering. Had any of the candidates or moderators been unafraid of their positions, perhaps we would have heard a more substantive discussion earlier in the debate. I have a hunch theyd like to continue to avoid the topic moving forward, but voters and journalists alike should not allow them to skirt the issue. Nikki Haley should have to reckon with her pledge to sign a federal ban on abortion. Tim Scott should have to explain why he wants to sign legislation curbing our rights every day to would-be voters. Chris Christie should have to explain why he slashed $7.5 million from state grants to support family planning and womens health clinics to his constituents. We must force all of the GOP candidates to engage in a meaningful dialogue on reproductive rights during their campaigns. A party that actually values individual freedom and personal responsibilityas guiding principles in society, not just stump speech talking pointsshould be willing to discuss these fundamental rights openly and without reservation. In a true democracy, the citizens voices matter. Ignoring an issue as critical as reproductive rights until the final minutes of a debate sends the wrong message about the GOPs priorities and its willingness to engage with the reality of a diverse American electorate. It is time for a more inclusive and respectful conversation about reproductive rights, that is based on fact. Enough with the lies. Enough with the dodging. The GOP must be forced to recognize the significance and value of the voices of those of us who are directly affected by these policies. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. A South Korean man has been sentenced to jail for using artificial intelligence to generate exploitative images of children, the first case of its kind in the country as courts around the world encounter the use of new technologies in creating abusive sexual content. The unnamed man, aged in his 40s, was sentenced to two and a half years in prison this month, according to the Busan District Court and the districts Public Prosecutors Office. He had created about 360 AI-generated images in April, the prosecutors office told CNN. The images were not distributed, and have been confiscated by police. Prosecutors argued during the case that the definition of sexually exploitative material should include descriptions of sexual behaviors by virtual humans and not just the appearance of actual children. The ruling showed that sexually abusive content can include imagery made with high level technology that is realistic enough to look like real children and minors, the prosecutors office said. The case comes as governments around the world grapple with the explosion of the AI industry, with far-reaching impacts ranging from copyright and intellectual property to national security, personal privacy and explicit content. Many are now racing to regulate the technology especially as cases like the South Korean sentencing highlight how AI can be used to violate peoples bodily autonomy and safety, especially for women and minors. Earlier this month, police in Spain launched an investigation after images of underage girls were altered with AI to remove their clothing and sent around town. In one case, a boy had tried to extort one of the girls using a manipulated image of her naked, the girls mother told the television channel Canal Extremadura. For years, deepfakes highly convincing fake videos made using AI have been used to put womens faces into often aggressive pornographic videos, without their consent. The videos often appear so real it can be hard for female victims to deny it isnt really them. The issue was thrust into broader public view in February this year when it emerged that a high-profile male video game streamer had accessed deepfake videos of some of his female streaming colleagues. From the very beginning, the person who created deepfakes was using it to make pornography of women without their consent, Samantha Cole, a reporter with Vices Motherboard, who has been tracking deepfakes since their inception, told CNN at the time. The streaming platform, Twitch, responded to the controversy by tightening its policies, calling the deepfake sexual videos personally violating and beyond upsetting. Other major platforms are similarly updating their rules, with TikTok adding further restrictions on sharing AI deepfakes in March. The European Union became one of the first in the world to set regulations on how companies can use AI in June, followed by China in July. And earlier in September, some of the biggest tech leaders in the United States including Bill Gates, Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg gathered in Washington as the Senate prepares to draft legislation on AI. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com McALLEN, Texas (Border Report) A South Texas congresswoman has filed legislation that would allow Border Patrol agents to still get paid even if the federal government shuts down at weeks end. Cocaine bricks wash up on South Texas border beaches, Border Patrol says U.S. Rep. Monica De La Cruz, a Republican who represents a sprawling district from the border town of McAllen to the San Antonio outskirts, late Tuesday filed HB 5694, the Pay Our Border Patrol and Customs Agent Act, her office told Border Report. If passed, the bill would allow funds from the Treasury that are not otherwise appropriated to be used to pay Border Patrol agents and officers within the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations in the event that the federal government shuts down because of failed budget negotiations for the Fiscal Year 2024 budget, according to the bill. CBP officers, dressed in blue, staff the 328 U.S. ports of entry, including land ports on the Southwest border with Mexico. Border Patrol agents, dressed in green, patrol the borderlands and lands in between the ports and apprehend those who try to illegally cross into the country. A Border Patrol agent patrols a section of border wall in Cameron County, Texas. (Sandra Sanchez/Border Report File Photo) With surges of migrants currently crossing the Rio Grande into South Texas, De La Cruz says its imperative that agents are justly compensated for their work. Border Patrol agents work hard each and every day to keep our border and nation safe, De La Cruz said. The thought of not paying these agents during a government shutdown is unconscionable. That is why I introduced this legislation to make sure they are taken of. Migrants who crossed into the U.S. from Mexico are met with concertina wire along the Rio Grande, Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023, in Eagle Pass, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) De La Cruz tweeted Wednesday that she filed the bill to ensure that U.S Customs and Border Protection agents working during a potential government shutdown are paid. Our border security means our national security, she told FOX News on Wednesday. She said over 50,000 migrants have illegally crossed into South Texas in the past five days. South Texas border epicenter for crossings of asylum-seekers Most have crossed into Eagle Pass, Texas, from Piedras Negras, upwards of 8,000 to 10,000 there per day. Migrants who crossed into the U.S. from Mexico pass under concertina wire along the Rio Grande, Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023, in Eagle Pass, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) Its our brave Border Patrol men and women that are on the front lines its not their fault that we are in capitol chaos trying to deal with these appropriations in Washington, DC. Theyre still going to show up protecting our communities so we need to do our job to make sure they get paid during this time, she told FOX. She touted the bill, just hours old, has already gotten bipartisan support, including that of U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, a Democrat from Laredo, who represents the border counties of Webb, Starr and Zapata. Jet skis used to smuggle migrants through Border Patrol checkpoint De La Cruz says the bill also is supported by U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, a Republican who also represents the South Texas border, and she says House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has expressed interest in it as well. Her office tells Border Report the bill, if passed, would not be the first to move funds during a government shutdown to cover the salaries of essential workers. This has been done previously when Congress has failed to pass a budget. A shutdown will happen at 12:01 ET Sunday morning if a continuing resolution or a Fiscal Year 2024 budget is not passed by Congress. Sandra Sanchez can be reached at SSanchez@BorderReport.com. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. A year after voters decisively rejected a historic $462 million bond request by a nearly two-to-one ratio, South Washington County school district officials are back with a smaller request based on community feedback. District officials on Nov. 7 will ask voters to approve a $200 million, two-question bond referendum to fund improvements at the schools. Voters also are being asked to increase the districts current $2.8 million technology levy to $5 million. If passed, the measures would add about $10 a month, or $120 a year, to the property tax bill of a $409,000 house, the median value for homes in the district, according to district officials. The district includes all or parts of Woodbury, Cottage Grove, Newport, St. Paul Park, Afton, and Denmark and Grey Cloud Island Townships. The first question asks if voters would support a $160 million bond referendum for safety and security enhancements, expansions and renovation at secondary schools. The second question asks voters to support a $40 million bond referendum for additions at four elementary schools and the construction of more bathrooms at five 1960s-era elementary schools. The passage of the second bond question is contingent on the passage of the first question, said Superintendent Julie Nielsen. If the second question fails, elementary school attendance boundary changes will be implemented for the 2024-2025 school year, she said. We know, whether were talking high school, the middle level, or the elementary level, that families really do not like boundary changes neither do district people, quite honestly, Nielsen said. (Boundary changes) are something that we dont enjoy doing, but its something that we have to do. We have the elementary space for our students, its just that the schools arent located in proximity of where the kids are. If the second question fails, about 430 current elementary students would move schools under the plan proposed by the district. The district has 18,790 students. Our community really has had a strong priority over not changing attendance boundaries, so thats why were asking our community, Yes or No? Nielsen said. If they vote yes, well do the additions. If they vote no, were going to do attendance boundary changes. Big-ticket items The big-ticket items included in the first question ($160 million) are the construction of new secure entrances at five schools, a planned addition at East Ridge High School, expansion and renovation at Park High School and expansion and renovation at Woodbury High School. Those items, Nielsen said, are what district residents told district officials they wanted to see included in a bond referendum. A survey of residents in December 2022, for example, showed 67 percent of people wanted secure entrances in the districts schools. This is the communitys plan, Nielsen said. It is not the priorities necessarily of administrators or staff. We got feedback at each of our community sessions and question one shows our highest priorities. These are the must-haves. They were consistently prioritized as the top items as we went out to the community. The districts three high schools would get $105 million in planned additions and renovations if the first question passes, Nielsen said. Related Articles East Ridge High School would get $35.8 million for the construction of a new classroom addition, cafeteria expansion, expansion of career and technical education, biomed and STEM spaces. Park High School would get $33 million for the construction of a new cafeteria and kitchen, expansion and renovation of career and technical education, robotics, STEM, biomed and learning spaces. Woodbury High School would get $36 million for the construction of a new cafeteria and kitchen, additional science classrooms, expansion and renovation of career and technical education, STEM, biomed and robotics spaces, and creation of multipurpose learning spaces. East Ridge, which opened in 2009, was built for a future planned addition south of the current building, Nielsen said. At that point in time, there wasnt enough support to build a bigger high school for future growth, she said. But all the landscape is prepped and ready for another lower and an upper area. Another major item, estimated to cost $25.8 million, is the construction of classroom additions and cafeteria expansion at Oltman Middle School on the south of the building toward the bus lot on the districts open land. Oltman, which opened in 2018, also was built for a future planned addition, she said. Secure entrances, more bathrooms District officials are proposing $25 million in improvements to construct new secure entrances at Park and Woodbury high schools, and Cottage Grove, Lake and Woodbury middle schools. At the end of the day, we need to have safe and secure schools, Nielsen said. We have six schools that do not have what we call a true, secured entryway. Visitors to those schools have to announce who they are and why they are there and get buzzed into the school, but they then have immediate access to the schools learning spaces, Nielsen said. If the bond referendum passes, new secure entrances would be built, and visitors would be buzzed into the office, Nielsen said. From there, if you want to see a counselor, if you want to see the principal, if you want to talk to a support person, you would meet with them in the office, and you would never go out to the learning spaces. We want to make sure that we close off the access to our learning spaces, and have visitors and guests who are coming to our school actually enter into the office. Passage of the second question would pay for additions at Bailey, Grey Cloud, Pine Hill and Red Rock elementary schools and a second set of bathrooms at Crestview, Hillside, Pine Hill, Pullman and Royal Oaks elementary schools. The schools needing additional bathrooms were built in the 1960s and have just a single set of bathrooms four stalls for girls, four stalls for boys, Nielsen said. People say, Why would you need more bathrooms if you have one set of bathrooms? and When I went to that school, there were enough bathrooms,' she said. Well, we need to look at the instructional time that is lost by students waiting to use the bathroom. As the schools grow and as we get into 500 and 600 students, kids are transitioning to recess and theyre transitioning to specialists, and you have classes waiting in hallways to use the bathrooms. Last years $426 million bond request the biggest ever in Minnesota was rejected by a vote of 14,834 to 7,782 on Aug. 9. In community sessions after the election, many residents told district officials that they didnt know about the bond referendum, Nielsen said. More communication This year, district officials have been presenting a full-court press on information, including mailing quarterly newsletters to every home in the district, said Shawn Hogendorf, director of communications and community relations. It costs about $15,600 to print and mail each of the districts Connect community newsletters; the district will be sending out its fourth publication in mid-October, he said. In addition, the district sent out two postcards inviting people to community meetings to provide feedback on its plan. The postcards cost about $3,000 to print and mail, Hogendorf said. Seventy percent of the residents who live within the boundaries of the South Washington County school district dont have kids who go to our school district, so when we think that were just out here killing it with email after email after email only 30 percent of people in the community are getting that, he said. Thats why we went back to a community newsletter that tangible newspaper style mailed to every community member in the district. Nielsen said the mailings have been well-received. When our first one came out, people were like, This is so cool, she said. They like to have something tangible in their hands. We know that it came at a cost, but I think our community and families really appreciated having that information. Technology levy The third question on the ballot asks voters to increase the districts current $2.8 million technology levy to $5 million. If approved, the technology levy would enhance cybersecurity, maintain technology infrastructure, upgrade security cameras, expand digital access to curriculum and learning tools, update educational and business software licensing, and maintain the devices distributed to students and staff during the pandemic with a refresh cycle to keep devices updated, according to district officials. Related Articles Many times when we talk about technology, people think strictly about devices and access and everything that goes along with the hardware, Nielsen said. Really, what were talking more about, is making sure that we have dedicated funds for things like cybersecurity, for making sure that we are safe from cyberattacks on our district infrastructure access to student information that people are getting, employee information, employee Social Security numbers. We need to make sure that were always prepared, and we protect that portion of our district. If the technology project levy fails, device and technology costs would come from the general fund; technology support and device maintenance for families and staff would be limited, and device upgrade cycles would be delayed, district officials said. Spanish-language disinformation and misinformation about climate change have risen hand in hand with the spread of false narratives online undermining renewable energy initiatives as extreme weather events have become more severe and recurrent this summer. The most common narratives include false allegations that wildfires are intentionally created to clear land for renewable energy projects, such as windmills or solar farms. Others spread disinformation about renewable energy projects harming animals or polluting the environment, according to a new study released Thursday that was commissioned by the environmental organizations GreenLatinos and Friends of the Earth. Study co-authors Cristina Lopez G. and Santiago Lakatos identified such narratives after having examined nearly 15,000 accounts on X, formerly known as Twitter, that were responsible for creating the top 20,000 most engaging Spanish-language posts that included anti-renewable energy content during the first six months of the year. For more from NBC Latino, sign up for our weekly newsletter. Lopez G. and Lakatos are analysts at the social media analytics firm Graphika. The findings come a week after Climate Action Against Disinformation, a coalition of more than 50 environmental groups, ranked X last in its approach to climate change misinformation. X did not respond to requests for comment. As in the spread of previous Spanish-language climate change disinformation online, social media accounts disseminating false information about renewable energy become more active during extreme weather events, Lopez G. told NBC News. With increased content moderation that we saw coming from major platforms during the Covid pandemic, we also saw that a lot of these conspiratorial communities started moving towards those platforms where there are less restrictions, where there is more relaxed content moderation, Lopez G. said. "In understanding this correlation, there's also an opportunity for us to anticipate when these sort of spikes in disinformation and misinformation might come and how to best educate audiences," she said. False narratives about renewable energy, the researchers said, are "malleable" because they are created and spread across multiple languages. "Depending on where the extreme weather event is taking place, that will borrow narratives from whatever language they're available to fit this particular local context," Lopez G. said. The study found that conspiracy theories in Greek alleging that wildfires were being set to clear land for renewable energy projects were spread online in 2018 right after wildfires killed dozens of people near Athens. Similar theories in Spanish resurfaced last year when Spain suffered big losses from wildfires amid record hot temperatures, but the falsehoods were adjusted to fit in the context of a change in the law allowing the redevelopment of recently burned areas. The narrative reappeared with much higher engagement this year when wildfires burned the northern Spanish region of Asturias, according to the study. At least two left-leaning public officials in Asturias at the time, as well as social media posts from right-leaning accounts in Spain, claimed the fires were intentionally provoked, but police said no arsonists were identified after multiple investigations. Social media accounts affiliated with the Spanish far-right party Vox picked up such narratives weeks later and amplified them online, even falsely claiming that the Maui wildfires in Hawaii were also intentional, according to the study. Lakatos said such conspiracy theories ultimately try to falsely argue that "wildfires aren't exacerbated by climate change." Human-caused climate change has already contributed to the planets warming about 1.1 degrees Celsius (2 degrees Fahrenheit) above preindustrial levels, according to a March report by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. According to the study released Thursday, more than a third (34%) of the X-based Spanish-language accounts found to be promoting misleading and false information about renewable energy display explicit signifiers of right-wing ideology, conservatism and support for Vox in Spain. Representatives for Vox did not respond to a request for comment. Other Spanish-language accounts on X expressing similar narratives about renewable energy and climate issues were based in Latin American countries like Mexico and Argentina. Despite being from different countries, the accounts in the network are connected by shared ideology and language, Lopez G. said. Broader conspiracy theories in Spanish Over the past year, Spanish-language social media users across those networks in Spain and Latin America have shared and translated clips and conspiracy theories from a documentary-like video claiming that noise from offshore wind farms killed over 60 whales, the study found. The U.S Energy Department has said the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the lead federal agency for marine mammal science and management, have found no evidence to support that. Conspiracy theories spread by such accounts also pushed exaggerated and decontextualized narratives about solar farms polluting groundwater supplies, according to the study. Others described renewable energy technologies as being unreliable compared to fossil fuels and as a fabrication by wealthy elites to profit off renewable energy projects, according to the study. Latinos are also more likely to rely on social media to stay informed than other groups. Messages produced in Spain and Latin America reach the feeds of Latinos in the U.S. through shared content and popular encrypted messaging apps such as WhatsApp, among other platforms. The researchers also found that Facebook groups created to organize specific communities opposing local renewable energy projects evolved into hubs for falsehoods and general anti-renewables discourse. Meta, the parent company of Facebook and WhatsApp, didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. Lopez G. and Lakatos also found that a significant number of the accounts posting false claims about climate change and renewable energy also spread misinformation about Covid-19, vaccines and the great reset a conspiracy theory about turning the world into a single economic-political bloc to the detriment of national identities. The actors that are most interested in preserving the status quo have a vested interest in sowing doubt, in at least generating enough skepticism to make the development of these technologies more challenging, Lopez G. said. Thousands of climate scientists contributing to the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change have said the countries must shift to renewable energy and stop building new fossil fuel infrastructure to curb the effects of climate change and global warming. A small, radical minority is spreading lies in vulnerable communities, capitalizing on extreme weather events to sow doubt in renewable energy, a critical energy source that can save us from future climate disasters, Edder-Diaz Martinez, a communications manager at GreenLatinos, said in a statement. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com The city of Springfield will receive over $100,000 from a federal grant program designed to help law enforcement across the nation. Springfield will get $102,523 from the U.S. Department of Justice's Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant to aid in the hiring of new Springfield Police Department officers and retention of current police employees. U.S. Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (D-Ill.) of the 13th Congressional District announced the grant recipients Wednesday, with Springfield being one of six cities in her district to receive money. Departments in Champaign, Decatur, Alton, Belleville and Edwardsville also received funding. More: Funeral for Pawnee schools superintendent scheduled for Saturday in Mt. Olive Budzinski said that it was critical that cities receive the grants. "Im so glad to announce that communities in Central and Southern Illinois will be receiving more than $322,000 in federal grants to support our local law enforcement agencies," Budzinski said. "Every single day, our first responders put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe. Its critical that we make sure they have the equipment, training and technology needed to stay safe on the job." The program helps cities support a range of law enforcement initiatives, including crime prevention, corrections, crisis intervention teams, mental health programs and technology improvement, among other things. It was named for a New York City police officer killed while protecting a witness who had agreed to testify against a group of local drug dealers. This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Springfield to receive $100,000 for hiring new police officers Families trust nursing homes to help vulnerable relatives at the end of their lives. Unfortunately, compassionate and competent care doesnt always happen. Tony Braswell is president and founder of Gale Healthcare Solutions, a digital platform that connects health care providers with nursing professionals across 40 states. Older Americans in hospitals, nursing homes and other health care settings are facing challenges, due to a shortage of nurses. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown deserve credit for focusing on the nursing crisis. The governors Nursing Home Quality and Accountability Task Force held listening sessions around the state earlier this year and is already prompting change. Brown sponsored legislation that would create national minimum staffing levels for nurses in hospitals. More: Ohio nursing homes are still dealing with a staffing shortage: Just how bad is it? Solving this crisis is going to require sustained commitment and innovation. The stakes for older Ohio residents could not be higher. Ohio has nearly 960 nursing homes only two other states have more. Yet Ohio ranks 39th in the latest overall quality ratings by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. As the governor has emphasized, 40% of Ohio nursing homes have had a decline in their overall rating since 2018. As the nation emerges from the pandemic that strained health care facilities and exacerbated the nursing shortage, more than 30% of Ohios nursing homes are still battling staffing challenges. A recent report in the Wall Street Journal cited staffing shortages as one of the factors causing 600 nursing homes to close their doors over the past six years. Meanwhile, the demand for nurses continues to increase. The states population of those 60 and older is expected to grow four times faster than the overall population between 2020 and 2040. These older residents are going to require more care and support. Additional funding and attention to appropriate staffing levels are critical pieces to solving this crisis. But we also need to find ways to empower nurses, so nurses stay on the job and others are attracted to the profession. As with many challenges, today, technology can help. Digital platforms have emerged for the health care industry that instantly connect health care providers with nurses who are available for open shifts. Providers post their staffing needs on an app, nurses using the app open their smartphone, review their options and select shifts that work for them. This on-demand model is transforming health care staffing, bringing far greater efficiency and better service for providers, workers, and ultimately the patients who rely on them for care. In Columbus, for example, nearly 1,000 nurses and nursing assistants use the Gale app to get alerts about open shifts. Nationwide, nearly 70,000 nursing professionals are using the platform. Shifts get filled in minutes, enabling people to get the care they deserve. These platforms can empower nurses to create a flexible work schedule and still get the protections of traditional employment. After three decades in the health care staffing industry, I believe strongly that nursing staff filling temporary shifts should be employees. They are working in highly regulated facilities, subject to supervision and control. Unfortunately, some newer platforms treat these essential workers as independent contractors to avoid employee-related costs. This model puts health care providers, nursing staff, and patients at significant risk. Nurses and nursing assistants, for example, lose their rights to overtime, workers compensation insurance, unemployment and other benefits. Nurses providing bedside care to our loved ones are not independent contractors. They deserve the longstanding protections that come with W2 employment. It is time to encourage older Ohioans to adopt healthy habits and behaviors, as well as recognize the importance of nurses and the need for policies and innovations that can grow - and protect - this vital workforce. Our seniors and many others depend on it. Tony Braswell is president and founder of Gale Healthcare Solutions, a digital platform that connects healthcare providers with nursing professionals across 40 states. CEB Braswell column 092123 This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: What can be done about Ohio's nursing home nurse crisis? Vice President Kamala Harris urged college students to vote and warned them about what she described as a full-on attack against their rights including their ability to vote and to get an abortion during a talk Thursday at Florida International University, the largest public university in South Florida. It is incumbent on us then to not passively sit by and let it happen but to stand up and fight for what we know to be right and be true, said Harris, 58. And one of the many ways you have to make a difference is to vote. But its not as simple as vote and your vote will matter. You also need to know there are people who are intentionally trying to make it harder for you to vote. Understand what youre up against, added Harris. She cited a law in Georgia that forbids people from giving food and water to those waiting in line to vote and one in Florida that restricts how ex-felons can vote. Vice President Kamala Harris, right, answers questions from panelists - Fat Joe, rapper, left, and actor Anthony Ramos, center, and students as she visited FIU as part of her Fight for Our Freedoms College Tour on Thursday, September 28, 2023 at Florida International University Ocean Bank Convocation Center on Ocean Bank and Convocation Center on FIU Riccardo Modesto A. Maidique Campus in Miami, Florida. READ MORE: Traffic alert: Visit by VP Harris may cause backups near FIU and other parts of Miami During the 45-minute conversation, held at the Ocean Bank Convocation Center, located on FIUs main campus in West Miami-Dade, moderators rapper Fat Joe and actor Anthony Ramos as well as some students asked Harris questions. It was Harris sixth stop in her month-long Fight for Our Freedoms College Tour that started Sept. 14, an effort to galvanize support among young people ahead of the 2024 presidential election. She told the crowd that she admired those in the Generation Z because despite national challenges like the murder of George Floyd, the coronavirus pandemic and historic climatic phenomena, theyve engaged civically. She reminded them how in the 2020 election young voters voted in record numbers. About 3,200 attended, according to FIU spokeswoman Maydel Santana. Your generation is one of the most spectacular, special that we have seen in a long time, she said, as they cheered. Vice President Kamala Harris answers questions from panelists - Fat Joe, rapper, and actor Anthony Ramos, and students as she visited FIU as part of her Fight for Our Freedoms College Tour on Thursday, September 28, 2023 at Florida International University Ocean Bank Convocation Center on Ocean Bank and Convocation Center on FIU Riccardo Modesto A. Maidique Campus in Miami, Florida. Harris touches on gun violence, abortion To further her point, Harris later asked those in those in the audience to raise their hand if they experienced an active shooter drill during their school years. Hundreds of arms immediately rose. See, I dont think people really understand what you have been through, she said after. But it doesnt have to be this way. She said she believed in the Second Amendment but also favored a ban on assault weapons, background checks and red flag laws. Fred Guttenberg, an activist against gun violence whose 14-year-old daughter Jaime Guttenberg died in the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas High mass shooting in Parkland, spoke before she arrived. He praised Harris and her allies for fighting against gun violence. He mentioned how last week, President Joe Biden announced the first-ever Office of Gun Violence Prevention and chose Harris to lead it. He also talked about the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, the most significant gun safety legislation, in nearly 30 years, which Congress passed in 2022. Vice President Kamala Harris answers questions from panelists - Fat Joe, rapper, and actor Anthony Ramos, and students as she visited FIU as part of her Fight for Our Freedoms College Tour on Thursday, September 28, 2023 at Florida International University Ocean Bank Convocation Center on Ocean Bank and Convocation Center on FIU Riccardo Modesto A. Maidique Campus in Miami, Florida. READ MORE: Classrooms have become political battlegrounds in Florida. Will it intensify this year? My friends, we need you, he told the crowd. The only way we can do more is through the vote. Theres a big election coming up, and I need every one of you right now to promise me youre going to vote in the 24 election. Haylee Casas, a marketing sophomore at FIU, said she liked that Harris addressed abortion. It was very informative, she said. It was cool. During her remarks, Harris explained how last year the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and how that led to states passing laws restricting abortion. She referenced Florida passing a law, signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in April, that would ban most abortions in the state after six weeks. She then said she wants Congress to pass a law making abortion legal. In this state, Harris started then chuckled, a six-week ban? That tells me they dont know how a womans body works. Most women dont even know theyre pregnant at six weeks. Diversity matters, Harris said Casas, a 19-year-old from Miami, said she also liked that Harris sprinkled motivational phrases throughout her appearance. At one point, Harris dared the students to dream with ambition and pushed them to be proud of their ethnicity. Harris, the first female vice president of the U.S., as well as the first African-American and first Asian-American vice president, told them that there would likely come a time in their lives where they would enter a courtroom, boardroom or another meeting room and they would be the only ones who looked like they do in that room. I am going to require you to remember you are not alone in that room, she said. Look around you; well all be walking into that room with you. FIU is the countrys largest Hispanic-serving institution (HSI): about 32,000 of its 56,000 students identify as Hispanic or Latino. The government defines HSI as a college or university with an enrollment of undergraduate full-time equivalent students thats at least 25% Hispanic. Actor Anthony Ramos, left, Vice President Kamala Harris, and Rapper Fat Joe take a moment for a quick selfie as she visited FIU as part of her Fight for Our Freedoms College Tour on Thursday, September 28, 2023 at Florida International Universitys main campus. READ MORE: Harris rejects DeSantis offer to discuss Black history education during Florida visit Harris also briefly touched on how the Florida Legislature this spring passed a law that in part prevents colleges and universities from spending money on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. Lets be really clear about what theyre up to, she said. Theyre trying to say that its a bad word. Theyre trying to do the same thing they did with woke. Theyre trying to turn it against the people who understand exactly why its important. After the FIU talk, Harris was scheduled to speak at a Biden campaign reception at 6 p.m. in Miami Shores. Shell return to Washington D.C. from Miami International Airport at 7 p.m. A Jacksonville family is thrilled to see their newborn daughter now moving her arms and legs. That normal baby activity wasnt always a certainty. Action News Jax told you back in July about a pregnant woman who traveled to Philadelphia for life-saving fetal surgery following a Utero Spina Bifida diagnosis. Timothy Newman, and his wife Christine Newman, are counting their blessings after their baby girl Caroline, was born premature just two weeks ago. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< Caroline was diagnosed with Spina Bifida before she was even born, its a rare spinal condition that affects newborns. Newman, says he didnt know what to think when he first heard this diagnosis, but after what doctors told him he knew it wasnt good. We were trying to avoid bladder and bowel issues, as well as the loss of the function of her legs and paralysis, said Newman. So the Newmans decided to have a risky fetal surgery to help Caroline. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Newmans wife., Christine had to travel to Philadelphia, and have that surgery at the Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia. It was a successful surgery, said Newman. The Newman family was expecting Caroline, to be born in October, but she arrived nine weeks early. Doctors performed an emergency C-section, and her brothers, Truitt, and Bennet, met their baby sister for the first time in the NICU just days ago. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Her umbilical cord was wrapped around her neck twice. It was slowly cutting the circulation off to her brain, said Newman. I spoke with Christine Newman who is still at the hospital in Philadelphia. She says when she saw her daughters limbs moving, she could only thank God. We started crying, I just stared at her toes wiggling, its just amazing, said Christine Newman. God works in a lot of ways. Through medicine, doctors, through miracles. I think each one of those happened in this case, said Timothy Newman. 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. Frontend loaders, backhoes and tractor-trailers carrying tanks and vacuum equipment buzzed across dusty ground next to a housing addition and a busy highway in northwest Oklahoma City on Wednesday as workers attacked potential environmental issues posed by an 88,000 gallon crude oil spill that occurred Monday. The work being done by Energy Transfer, operator of the line near NW 184 and Portland Avenue, and contractors it hired were expected to remain on site for at least the next several days, officials said Wednesday. Tasks involved in the cleanup include recovering small lakes of spilled crude, removing or remediating contaminated dirt and flushing city-owned storm drains with fresh water to prevent any polluted water from flowing into a pond or nearby Bluff Creek. The drain flushing isn't expected to end until water captured at the end of the flows is clean, while work to remove contaminated soil at the spill location is expected to continue until what remains is oil-free. Making sure all the oil is removed matters. If any resulting pollution were to make it to Bluff Creek, it eventually could flow into Deer Creek and ultimately the Cimarron River. Oklahoma City's water supply in Lake Hefner, which is upstream from the spill site, was never in any danger, the city's environmental superintendent told The Oklahoman. The cleanup work is being overseen by the Oklahoma Corporation Commission's oil and gas division and Oklahoma City's storm water quality division. No lasting environmental impacts on the surrounding area are expected, representatives of both agencies said this week. The breach happened about 10:30 a.m. Monday as a road builder cleared ground at the site, creating a geyser of oil that could be seen by passing motorists until Energy Transfer was able to shut it down. A boom keeps oil from flowing away from the site of an 88,000 gallon spill in northwest Oklahoma City on Wednesday. The 16-inch line that was hit is one of two that carry crude oil between Cushing and Midland, Texas. When operational, the lines have a capacity of thousands of barrels per day. A barrel of oil contains 42 gallons. Known as the pipeline crossroads of the world, Cushing has more than 430 oil storage tanks spread out along the southern and northern edges of town. Cushing, which sits about 70 miles northeast of Oklahoma City, was once home to 53 refineries, but the last one was closed by Kerr-McGee in 1987. However, a Texas company is set to build a $5.6 billion next generation refinery in Cushing that will be one the countrys largest, processing 250,000 barrels of light crude daily. Where does this spill rank among other spills in Oklahoma? Oil can be seen in a drain's flowing water Wednesday near the site of an 88,000 gallon oil spill. Workers are flushing the drains with fresh water to remove the oil from that system. Oklahoma's regulators routinely deal with hydrocarbon spills. Monday's event was not the biggest they've seen, according to Matt Skinner, the Oklahoma Corporation Commission's public information manager. In March of 2018, a broken Centurion Pipeline pipe leaked 139,776 gallons of oil into a pond near the intersection of County Line and Memorial roads. The spill killed fish and wildlife. It took more than a month to remediate the pond and surrounding area. In July of 2022, two ponds in a park inside the town of Cyril were contaminated by 248,220 gallons of oil-based drilling mud that had been stored inside of tanks the operator, Stellar Drilling Fluid, believes were deliberately opened by a saboteur (a security fence around the tanks also had been cut). Remediation efforts lasted for nearly half a year after that event. Another May 15 this year involved a storage tank in Cushing owned by Plains Pipeline that sprung a leak and released 187,194 gallons of oil into a diked ponding area built around the tank for safety purposes. The oil did not make it beyond the dike, and no wildlife or fish were affected. It took about a month to remediate the area. A spill in August near Kremlin released an estimated 168,000 gallons of oil onto surrounding farmland after heavy rains breached a dike surrounding a drilling mud treatment and disposal facility. Cleanup there continues this week. Pipeline Safety Trust, an organization that promotes pipeline safety through education and advocacy, routinely monitors pipeline breaks happening across the nation. It ranks Monday's Oklahoma City spill the eighth-largest inside the state since 2010 using the most recent data available from the U.S. Transportation Department's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration. "Curiously, half the spills at this size or larger in Oklahoma have been due to excavation damage," said Kenneth Clarkson, the organization's communications director. The other four were due to material failures, internal corrosion or an unknown cause, he said. Spills pose threats to wildlife and people Workers recover crude oil and contaminated soil from a site near NW 184 and Portland Avenue in Oklahoma City on Wednesday. Hydrocarbon spills are never a good thing for life forms, whether they are human, microscopic or in between, said Dr. Kyle Abbott, medical director with Wild Care Oklahoma. "These kinds of disasters have pretty far-reaching effects, and it all depends on the amount of contamination and how far it reaches into local ecosystems." Animals exposed to oil, either by being coated with it or ingesting contaminated food can die quickly or suffer various types of longer-term reproductive or other physiological problems. "We are still learning a lot about long-term, detrimental effects on wildlife with a lot of these oil spills that have happened," Abbott said. "We know if it is contained, you can minimize those damages. If not, you can have pretty severe both immediate and long-term effects." Oil on the ground is a concern, especially to organisms in water because it prevents them from getting oxygen they need to survive. Even if quick responses prevent it from making it to nearby streams, ponds and lakes, contaminated soils also are a concern, said Amy Brittain, the risk management and ground water manager in Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality's land protection division. If not promptly removed, oil can work its way down through air pockets in the soil and, when exposed to rain, can leach contaminants into groundwater tables that often are sources of water for homeowners. "If you leave it in the soil long-term, it can be a constant source of pollution," Brittain said. Oklahoma City: Every situation unique A worker checks the progress of cleaning up contamination near the site of a northwest Oklahoma City oil spill. Cleanup efforts are expected to last at least another several days. Each hazardous materials spill presents a unique set of issues that must be addressed, said Derek Johnson, Oklahoma City's environmental protection superintendent. In Monday's case, firefighters, hazardous materials specialists and other first-responders were able to keep oil that went down nearby storm drains after Monday's line breach from reaching a tributary that feeds into Bluff Creek. "The fire department was able to erect a final dam 355 feet west of State Highway 74, so it didn't travel very far off site," Johnson said. On Wednesday, those drains and waterways were being flushed with fresh water to clean any residual contamination out of the system. He expected they would repeat that process several times during coming days to ensure any remaining oil was removed. Johnson, a 22-year city employee who has led its Storm Water Quality Division for three years, said this week's mishap is not the most significant threat his team has faced. In some cases, past oil spills have not been discovered for days or longer, contaminating much larger areas that required more complex cleanup efforts. On Monday, first responders were able to use onsite equipment to quickly gain control of the situation. "The spill in this event was contained to a very limited area. It was managed very well, from start to finish," Johnson said. "The pipeline company has been extremely responsive and is working quickly to address the issue." Investigation into incident cause continued Wednesday Oil is seen Wednesday in a drainage canal near the site of a spill that happened in northwest Oklahoma City. The Oklahoma Corporation Commission's Pipeline Safety Department was investigating how the pipeline break happened as cleanup work continued, Skinner said. Under the commission's rules, Energy Transfer is responsible for making sure the area is appropriately restored because it owned the product that was spilled. If it is determined the road contractor erred and struck a line that properly was marked, Energy Transfer could seek compensation from the company to pay the cleanup's costs. However, that would happen outside the agency's purview, either through an agreement made between the two parties or through the filing of a lawsuit in Oklahoma County District Court. The investigation includes record checks to ensure requests were filed and fulfilled to mark the lines. It also involves interviews with on-scene witnesses who saw how the break happened. "Seeing an incident like this where a marked line, particularly one as large as this one, is hit is extremely rare in Oklahoma," Skinner said. "But we haven't finished our investigation. "It is still ongoing." This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: State agencies continue to clear 88,000-gallon oil spill in OKC Floridas highest court on Thursday slapped down the regulatory board that approved the largest utility rate increase in state history for Florida Power & Light, ruling that the Public Service Commission failed to justify why the increase was in the public interest and how it was allowed by law. The 4-2 ruling leaves in place the rate increases for FPL customers that took effect in January 2022 and that will culminate in $4.86 billion in additional costs to customers by 2026. But it also ordered the PSC to explain why it reached its conclusions, a move that could potentially open the door to a reconsideration of part of the settlement agreement that gave the powerful electric utility the ability to automatically raise customers bills, while hitting residential clients hardest. The Commissions reasoning about whether all this is in the public interest covers less than two pages of the over 70,000 in the record we have for review, wrote Justice John Couriel in the majority opinion that was joined by Chief Justice Carlos Muniz and Justices Jorge Labarga and Jamie Grosshans. Because that record was insufficient for the court to decide if the rate hike was legal, it ordered the commission to give us something to work with: a decision that is reasoned and articulated enough to allow us to assess on what basis it has concluded that the settlement agreement is in the public interest and results in rates that are fair, just, and reasonable. Justices Charles Canady and Renatha Francis wrote dissenting opinions and, while they did not deny that the record was skimpy, they argued that the court did not have the authority to send the issue back to the PSC for a better explanation of its decision. Instead, they said, the courts role was to either approve or reject the work that was done. There is no statutory or constitutional support for us to assume this role of project manager for the commission, Francis wrote. PSC was unanimous in granting increase The five-member PSC unanimously approved the rate increase on Oct. 26, 2021, after spending less than an hour in public discussion. The agreement was the result of a settlement with FPL and seven parties that intervened in the case, including the Florida Office of Public Counsel, the Florida Retail Federation, the Florida Industrial Power Users Group and the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy. The rate hikes allow FPL to increase rates annually for at least four years as well as receive incremental increases in rates related to the construction of certain solar projects. FPL may also raise rates to cover storm costs without having to seek the approval of regulators and can charge a monthly fee to customers with little to no electricity usage, including solar users a change that will pay the company $32 million. The agreement was challenged by Floridians Against Increased Rates, and a coalition of three other organizations Florida Rising, the Environmental Confederation of Southwest Florida and the League of United Latin American Citizens of Florida. They argued that the settlement was not in the public interest, that parts of it violated state law, and that it would result in unreasonably high electricity rates. Oral arguments before the Supreme Court were held in February. Bradley Marshall, who represented the consumer advocates in the case, said he was pleased the court agreed with them. The court found that when the commission is agreeing to the highest rate increase in U.S. history that they must explain themselves, he said. Its what weve been saying since the order came out that the commission didnt bother to address any of the issues that were in dispute in the case. FPL spokesman Chris McGrath countered that the record before the PSC in this case is robust and extensive, and provides ample support for the agreement. Its important to understand that todays decision by the Supreme Court is procedural in nature and directs the Florida Public Service Commission to make its final order more robust, McGrath said. The court made it clear that the challenges to the PSCs legal authority to approve many aspects of the settlement raised in opposition to the agreement provided no basis for reversal. The PSC said in a statement that it appreciates the Supreme Courts directions and will comply with its request. Business customers benefited from settlement Consumer advocates argued that the evidence showed that that residential customers would have been better off if the commission had approved FPLs original proposal instead of the settlement that was offered. For example, one important feature of the settlement requires residential customers to subsidize a $1 billion decrease in costs for the states largest commercial and industrial businesses and also subsidize customers who sign up for FPLs solar expansion. The PSC held a one-day hearing to review FPLs rate requests, but its staff asked no questions, and the commission spent little time discussing the issues raised by the consumer groups. FPL witnesses admitted before regulators that the agreement will cost residential customers disproportionately more than the rate increase imposed on the states largest businesses. Those businesses will pay 20% less than what FPL originally proposed, while residential customers see a decrease of only 2%. The PSC never discussed the issue. The FPL witnesses also admitted that one provision of the agreement allows its Solar Together program, which gives subscribers $2 billion in credits, will not cover any additional low-income customers and instead allow large commercial users to obtain the greatest benefit. That issue also was not discussed by the commission. The court ruling noted that, under Florida law, the PSC has the broad legislative grant of authority to set fair, just, and reasonable rates but only if they are supported by competent, substantial evidence in the record. The court concluded there was no such record and repeatedly chastised the commission for its failure to show how its decision was supported by both law and regulatory authority. Couriel wrote that the commission and FPL assure us that the commissions decision was warranted considering the evidence in the record. But it is not enough to point to the pile of paper memorializing these proceedings and say, Its in there. Instead, the commission must do the job with which the Legislature has tasked it by showing, in its final order, how the paper in that pile supports its decision. Why didnt PSC ask questions? The ruling also noted that the PSC has the discretion to use non-statutory reasons for justifying its decisions, but also raised questions about why regulators embraced FPLs arguments without challenging them. For example, the court wrote, the PSC supported its decision by stating that FPLs residential 1,000 kWh bill [is] projected to remain 21% below the current national average under the settlement agreement but suggested the commission would have to explain the relevance of this metric in light of the purpose of the Commission. The consumer advocates argued that the PSC also unfairly attempted to help the company expand profits for its shareholders by giving FPL a midpoint return on equity of 10.6%, higher than it allowed for other electric utilities in Florida, allowing the company to reap profits from expanding a power plant, transmission line or distribution network, as well as solar projects and electric vehicle charging stations. Marshall said he hopes the PSC will invite Florida consumers to testify about the impact of the rate increases on their lives. This settlement included a lot of overbuilding that Floridians cant afford and do not need, he said. Floridians are struggling to pay their power bills, and I hope the commission considers this in context. Justice Meredith Sasso, who joined the court in May after oral arguments in the case, did not take part in Thursdays decision. Mary Ellen Klas can be reached at meklas@miamiherald.com and @MaryEllenKlas A man has been arrested in connection with the theft of a Buddha statue worth $1.5 million, Los Angeles police said Wednesday. The statue was recovered from a truck on Saturday and 44-year-old Justin Livick was arrested on suspicion of possession of stolen property, LAPD Lt. Ruiz told KTLA. He has since been released from custody. It is unclear if Livick stole the statue or had purchased it from someone else, Ruiz said. The incident remains under investigation and no further details were released Wednesday. $1.5 million ancient Buddha statue stolen from Los Angeles art gallery The statue was stolen from the Barakat Gallery in Beverly Grove around 3:45 a.m. Sept. 18, police said. Historical bronze Buddha statue worth $1.5 million stolen from the Barakat Gallery in Los Angeles on Sept. 18, 2023. (Barakat Gallery) Security camera catures a thief stealing a historical bronze Buddha statue worth $1.5 million from the Barakat Gallery in Los Angeles on Sept. 18, 2023. (Barakat Gallery) Security camera catures a thief stealing a historical bronze Buddha statue worth $1.5 million from the Barakat Gallery in Los Angeles on Sept. 18, 2023. (Barakat Gallery) Barakat Gallery on La Cienega Boulevard in Los Angeles. (KTLA) Security video shows the thief pulling up to the gallery in a moving truck. The driver steps out, breaks open a driveway gate, enters the gallery and uses a dolly to move the statue into the truck. The entire heist took around 25 minutes, gallery owner Fayez Barakat told KTLA. Barakat said he acquired the statue, which dates back to Japans Edo Period (1603-1867), more than 55 years ago, and claims there is no other piece in the world quite like it. I prize it so much, Barakat previously said. I had it in the backyard of my home and when I moved into this gallery, I put it in the backyard of the gallery for everybody to admire and enjoy. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com. A man walks next to a damaged car after floods in the town of Agria near the city of Volos, Greece, Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. A second powerful storm in less than a month hammered parts of central Greece Thursday, sweeping away roads, smashing bridges and flooding thousands of homes. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) VOLOS, Greece (AP) A second powerful storm in less than a month hammered parts of central Greece on Thursday, sweeping away roads, smashing bridges and flooding thousands of homes. The storm called Elias caused extensive flooding in the central city of Volos and left hundreds stranded in nearby mountain villages. The fire service carried out multiple rescues and evacuations, authorities said. Rescuers were also searching a mountainous area for the pilot of a private helicopter that went missing in the bad weather. All of Volos has turned into a lake, Volos Mayor Achilleas Beos told state television. Peoples lives are in danger. Even I remained trapped, and 80% of the city is without power. I dont know where God found so much water. Its like the story of Noahs Ark. Bad weather earlier this month struck the same area, killing 16 people, and causing more than 2 billion euros ($2.1 billion) in damage to farms and infrastructure. Authorities said there were no deaths this time and that apart from the pilot, none of the residents from the afflicted regions were reported missing.. Military and municipal crews scrambled to flooded areas. They placed flood victims, many of them elderly, in dinghies or excavator buckets to lead them to safety. A total 280 people were removed to safe areas, the fire service said. Residents in Volos used plastic buckets and brooms to push the mud out of their homes and to try to protect their belongings. Among them was 83-year-old Apostolis Dafereras, who has lived in a suburb of the city since 1955. I have never seen anything like this, Dafereras said, looking out the window of his ground-floor home as knee-high flood water gushed past. Earlier, he and other residents on his street tried to push mud and flood water out of his home. "The water came in and we were practically swimming," Dafereras said. "We stayed upstairs with our tenant. Authorities said the worst damage was reported around Volos and in northern parts of the nearby island of Evia, an area vulnerable to flooding due to the impact of massive wildfires two years ago. The European Union has promised Greece more than 2 billion euros in financial support to cope with the damage caused by summer wildfires and the ongoing floods, while Athens is renegotiating the terms of other aid packages to direct funds toward climate change adaptation. Volos has been hit a second time with a storm of lasting duration. ... The state is with those who are struggling, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said in Parliament. The positive course of the country has been overshadowed by natural disasters that are attacks caused by climate change. Mitsotakis promised to rebuild infrastructure to a higher standard after roads, bridges and rail tracks were washed away in the floods. But many flood victims in Volos said they felt unprotected, angered that their homes had been damaged for a second time. The situation wasnt just handled in an amateur way," city resident Pantos Pinakas said. "It was handled in a way (that was) extremely dangerous and reprehensible. ___ Gatopoulos reported from Athens. Associated Press writer Lefteris Pitarakis in Volos, Greece, contributed to this report. ___ Follow full AP coverage of the climate and environment: https://apnews.com/climate-and-environment Authorities arrested a Hancock High School student Wednesday night after a gun was brought to campus, the Hancock County School District said Thursday morning. It was reported after school hours that a student at Hancock High School brought a handgun to school yesterday, the district said in a message sent to staff and families of middle and high school students. The incident was reported to the authorities and the Hancock County Sheriffs Department arrested the student last night. Melissa Saucier, director of public relations for the district, said school officials learned of the incident after another child left school Wednesday and told a parent that a classmate brought a handgun to Hancock High. The sheriffs department found and arrested the student Wednesday night, Saucier said. Were not aware of any threats that were made, she said. The Hancock County Sheriffs Office said in a press release on Thursday that it received information about a video that showed two juveniles with a handgun at the school. The release said authorities identified the juveniles, who are 14 and 16. The sheriffs department recovered the handgun and has turned the case over to the Hancock County Youth Court, the release said. The release did not mention an arrest and did not specify which juvenile reportedly brought the gun to school. The school districts message to parents asked them to encourage children to immediately report suspicious activity on campus. Saucier said safety is a top priority in Hancock County schools, and the district has ordered weapons detectors that will arrive in October. School leaders ordered those systems to increase security after a mass shooting at an after-prom party in May left two Hancock High students dead and others injured. The school will follow handbook protocols but could not discuss discipline because the student is a minor, Saucier said. The Education Department released its final version of the gainful employment rule. It would prevent borrowers from enrolling in program that leaves them with too much debt compared to earnings. The rule will go into effect in July 2024. President Joe Biden's Education Department has released its final rule to keep student debt from spiraling after a borrower graduates. On Wednesday, the Education Department announced its final version of the gainful employment rule. The rule, first established in 2014 under then-President Barack Obama, cut off federal aid for schools that offered programs that left students with too much debt when compared to their likely postgraduation income. Former President Donald Trump repealed the rule in 2019, and now Biden's administration is reinstating it and the new provisions will be implemented in July 2024. According to the department's fact sheet, the rule will protect about 700,000 students a year from career training programs that leave graduates earnings with "no better than what someone with a high school diploma" would earn. It also includes financial transparency requirements so students who enroll at the program will have information at the outset on how much debt they might take on from the program. "Students overwhelmingly say that they're going to college to find a good job and build financial security, but too often their programs leave them no better off financially than those with no postsecondary education at all," Under Secretary of Education James Kvaal said in a statement. "These rules will stop taxpayer dollars from going to schools that continually saddle students with unaffordable debt. Separately, we're ensuring all students have increased information to make good choices." The Education Department will assess whether career programs meet the gainful employment requirements using two separate metrics: The debt-to-earnings rate, which ensures a graduate's student debt payments are no more than 8% of annual earnings or 20% of discretionary earnings An earnings premium test that measures whether a typical graduate from a program that received federal aid is earning as least as much as a typical high school graduate in their state between the ages of 25 and 34. Programs that fail those metrics will be required to warn students that they risk losing federal student aid, and programs that fail the same metric in two of three consecutive years will lose federal aid. The department projected that about 1,700 programs that enroll 700,000 students will fail at least one of the metrics, and nearly 90% of students in failing programs go to for-profit schools. Along with the new metrics, the department also announced a new financial transparency framework that would provide students with information on what they are likely to pay out-of-pocket for certain programs, how much debt they can expect to take on, and how much they're likely to earn after graduating. It also ensures students are aware of risks of enrolling in a certain certificate or graduate programs that could leave them with unaffordable student debt. The accountability metrics will go into effect July 2024, and the first official metrics will be published in early 2025. Jason Altmire, president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities an organization that represents for-profit schools said in a statement that the new rule unfairly targets for-profit institutions. "The Department has rushed the process, overlooking critical issues, to hastily implement and weaponize a final Gainful Employment rule against for-profit institutions," Altmire said. "The Department continues to put its thumb on the scale to circumvent established procedures and advance a partisan rule that fails to protect the vast majority of students." However, advocates and Democratic lawmakers have previously pushed for a strengthened gainful employment rule to protect borrowers. Aaron Ament, president of advocacy group Student Defense, said in a statement that the finalized rule "is a major step towards enacting more front-end protections to ensure students aren't being taken advantage of by predatory schools and programs." Education Secretary Miguel Cardona emphasized that point to reporters on a Wednesday press call. "These rules will raise the bar for accountability and transparency in higher education. This includes the most effective gainful employment rule in history," Cardona said. "We're going to protect students from programs that leave graduates with low wages for career prospects and debt they can't afford." Read the original article on Business Insider Student loan payments return Sunday with hope, confusion and fear clouding the restart after a three-year pause. The Biden administration is hoping to provide some relief to borrowers with a new income-driven repayment plan and an on-ramp repayment program, but the on-switch also comes as Congress is struggling to keep the government funded. A shutdown could hurt student loan servicers already struggling to handle tens of millions accounts getting turned on at once after a break that began in the early days of the coronavirus pandemic. Here is what borrowers need to know as student loan payments begin: Borrowers have an on-ramp repayment option While student loans are restarting, the typical consequences for missing payments will not be enacted until October 2024. The Biden administration is offering an on-ramp repayment option for the upcoming year that allows borrowers to miss payments with few financial consequences. Borrowers who miss payments will not be labeled as delinquent, will not have their wages garnished and will not be referred to debt collections. However, interest will still accrue on the loans, and missing payments have the potential to impact a borrowers credit score. The Department of Education has said it wont report a borrower to a credit company for missed payments, but that doesnt mean credit companies wont find out. There could be situations where potentially because youre not making your payments, the value of your loan is increasing because its collecting interest, so you will owe more money. The credit bureau takes that into account and maybe your credit score gets dinged a little bit, said Jacob Channel, senior economist and student loan repayment expert at Lending Tree. The consequences for a credit score hit shouldnt be as severe as normal because the department is not reporting people as delinquent, which typically has a huge impact on credit scores, but Channel says there are many unknown factors at play. At the end of the day, while they might not report you as delinquent, if they are still reporting things like your loan balance, there could still be some negative repercussions, he said. More than 28 million Americans have to start paying The resumption of student loans is set to impact more than 28 million Americans as all their accounts get turned back on at once. While 45 million have student loan accounts, only 28 million will start paying on their loans next month. Seven million borrowers will be in default and eligible for the Fresh Start student loan program, and 8 million more wont owe payments because they are either in school, in another payment pause such as military deferment or waiting to get their loans discharged. The average student loan borrower owes around $29,000, with all such debt in the country totaling more than $1.75 trillion. Most of that debt is held by the federal government, which has kept payments paused for the past three years due to the economic upheaval of the pandemic. President Biden made an attempt during the pause to cancel up to $20,000 in student debt for all borrowers, but it was struck down by the Supreme Court. The Education Department is making another attempt through the Higher Education Act to deliver student debt relief, but it is unknown when details such as how much debt could be forgiven or who would qualify for it will get released. Id say many borrowers have not prepared well, maybe from a vain hope and a campaign promise. They have often racked up their own debt separately from student debt, said Adam Kissel, visiting fellow in the Heritage Foundations Center for Education Policy. New income-driven repayment plan The Biden administration has also released a new income-driven repayment (IDR) plan before the restart of payments called the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan. The new plan is the most generous ever offered to borrowers, according to Education Secretary Miguel Cardona. The plan is getting implemented in two phases. Some of the changes coming this year include raising the income exemption from 150 percent to 225 percent above the federal poverty guidelines and stopping the growth of unpaid interest. Other changes coming next summer include cutting monthly payments from 10 percent to 5 percent of discretionary income. The SAVE plan is a lifeline if youre able to get on a $0 payment, and we have worked with some borrowers, especially older borrowers on Social Security to get on that plan, said Natalia Abrams, president and founder of the Student Debt Crisis Center. But the folks that were seeing it harm or not be helpful for is our folks that may have seen an increase in their income during the pandemic. And then when they go to apply, the people who were on a previous IDR plan they realize they have to pay a much higher payment, Abrams said. Student loan servicers may be slow Student loan servicers have a difficult task ahead of them as millions of accounts turn back on at once after they failed to receive a requested budget increase from Congress. The Department of Education previously said the allotted funding would not be enough for a smooth transition. As the Department has repeatedly made clear, restarting repayment requires significant resources to avoid unnecessary harm to borrowers, such as cuts to servicing, a spokesperson said. Others have argued the department could have allocated money better to help loan servicers as they prepared to take on this task. The cuts have hit the customer service sector of student loan servicers, threatening to cause long wait times for borrowers who may need help once payments resume. Government is preparing to shut down Student loans are turning back on at a very tumultuous time for Congress as lawmakers struggle to pass a budget before Sunday and are running headfirst into a government shutdown. The White House was asked if it considered pushing back the start date for resuming payments in light of the looming government closure. And while press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said student loans are a top priority, she did not indicate they would push back the date. So, you know, if this happens, if Republicans in Congress, you know, go down this road of shutting down the government, we anticipate that key activities at Federal Student Aid will continue for a couple of weeks, Jean-Pierre said. But, however, if it is a prolonged shutdown lasting more than a few weeks, could substantially disrupt the return to repayment effort and long-term servicing support for borrowers. So, the Department of Education will do its best to support borrowers as they return to repayment, as we have been saying for the past several months. But an extreme Republican shutdown, if this occurs, could be disruptive, she added. Updated Friday at 12:20 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. (Bloomberg) -- Prime Minister Rishi Sunak refused to commit to building the HS2 rail projects northern leg, fueling speculation that he plans to scrap a major part of the governments plans to level-up disadvantaged regions. Most Read from Bloomberg There are spades in the ground right now at the moment, making sure we complete the first bit of this line, Sunak said Thursday during interviews on local BBC radio, referring to the London-Birmingham link. He repeatedly avoided answering on whether the second part from Birmingham to Manchester will still go ahead. Another spur to Leeds was scrapped in 2021. The premiers refusal to squash speculation that hes considering shortening the rail project, whose costs are threatening to spiral beyond 100 billion ($122 billion), risks sparking more anger from UK business leaders and politicians across the spectrum. Asked whether he agreed with Conservative West Midlands Mayor Andy Street that the project should go ahead in full, Sunak said only that he agreed on the need for transportation infrastructure. The controversy makes for an awkward backdrop ahead of the Conservative Partys annual conference starting Sunday in Manchester. The gathering is a chance for Sunak to outline his vision for Britain and boost his partys flagging poll numbers against Labour before an election expected to be held next year. Read More: UKs HS2 Rail Project Sets Chaotic Scene for Party Conference The HS2 project has been backed by Sunaks five immediate predecessors as prime minister and is at the heart of the Tories manifesto promise to address imbalances between northern communities and the more affluent south. The Tories drew away traditional Labour voters in those areas in the 2019 election, and Sunak is under pressure to hold onto that support. During the radio interviews, Sunak gave a clear view of how the government would likely try to sell any scaling back of HS2 as a benefit to the region. East-west, west-east connectivity across northern towns and cities is important, Sunak said, implying money saved on HS2 would free up budgets to expand other lines. He also referenced improving roads and repairing potholes. The politics are sensitive. Sunak also refused to confirm that HS2 would be built to the planned terminus at Euston in central London, amid reports that the government is also seeking cost savings by stopping the line at Old Oak Common in the west of the capital. Asked about Euston, Sunak replied that connections from Old Oak Common are very strong because the station will be on the new Elizabeth Line tube route, which used to be known as Crossrail. But critics have said that stopping the high-speed route outside central London undermines the business case for the flagship line, and there are warnings that even the new Elizabeth Line may struggle to cope with the volume of HS2 passengers transferring to trains coming from Heathrow airport. Its not just train users that Sunak risks alienating. Thousands of people have seen heavy disruption and construction in their local areas to make room for HS2, which was promised as a new backbone for the UKs transport infrastructure but now risks becoming dramatically watered down. Most of those areas dont have stations on the new line, though the business case for HS2 includes freeing up capacity on existing lines. During his interview with BBC Radio Three Counties, Sunak was played a clip from a man who has lived in Wendover, northwest of London, for 72 years. He said graveyards and woodland have been dug up near his home. I know what Wendover was like, and it wont be the same again. Never, he said. Tory party grandees including former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, ex deputy premier Michael Heseltine and former Chancellors George Osborne and Philip Hammond have urged Sunak not to scrap the Manchester link. Labours Mayor of Manchester Andy Burnham said it would leave northerners with Victorian infrastructure, probably for the rest of this century. The government has already spent 24.7 billion on HS2 as of June, with a budget for the first phase of the project from London to Birmingham of as much as 45 billion. Beyond that the numbers are more opaque. The official cost of the whole project is 71 billion though the governments own review said it could exceed 100 billion. --With assistance from Stuart Biggs. (Updates with Sunak comment in sixth paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Family members of Pava LaPere, the slain founder of tech startup EcoMap Technologies, speak during a vigil on Sept. 27 in Baltimore. Family members of Pava LaPere, the slain founder of tech startup EcoMap Technologies, speak during a vigil on Sept. 27 in Baltimore. Police have arrested a man wanted in connection with both the brutal murder of Baltimore tech CEO Pava LaPere and a separate, near-fatal attack and rape less than a week earlier, authorities said. Jason Dean Billingsley, 32, was taken into custody around 11 p.m. Wednesday at a train station in Bowie, Maryland, northeast of Washington, D.C., The Baltimore Banner reported, citing U.S. Marshals, who did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Billingsleys capture came one day after Baltimore police named him as a suspect in the murder of LaPere, who was found dead with blunt-force injuries at her apartment building late Monday morning. Police at a press conference Thursday said they believe she was likely killed on Friday night in a random attack. They declined to release further information on her death, citing a request from her family. Baltimore Acting Police Commissioner Richard Worley speaks at a news conference with law enforcement and city officials about the arrest of Jason Dean Billingsley on Thursday in Baltimore. Baltimore Acting Police Commissioner Richard Worley speaks at a news conference with law enforcement and city officials about the arrest of Jason Dean Billingsley on Thursday in Baltimore. In a surprise twist, authorities revealed Thursday that they were already looking for Billingsley for a separate violent crime when LaPere was found dead. He was being tracked by law enforcement following an attempted murder, arson and rape that occurred at a home on Sept. 19, six days prior to the discovery of LaPeres body, police said. He wasnt immediately named as a suspect in that incident, however, because authorities didnt want him to go into hiding. This attack was believed to have been isolated and the attack not random, interim Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley said at Thursdays presser. If I would have known that he was going to go and kill someone, we would have put the flier out.Interim Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley As soon as Billingsley saw the public alert for his arrest on Tuesday, he fell off authorities radar as expected, said Worley. He turned off all devices we were able to track him on, he said, while defending his departments decision to not alert the public about him sooner. Im not going to speculate whether it could have prevented her death, he said of LaPere. Hindsight is always 20/20, he later added. If I would have known that he was going to go and kill someone, we would have put the flier out, but we had no indication that he was committing random acts. Police previously said evidence gathered during that earlier investigation connected Billingsley to LaPeres death. In that earlier attack, a man and woman were reportedly critically injured, and a 5-year-old treated for smoke inhalation, after a fire was set at their home. The couple was allegedly ambushed by an armed man posing as a maintenance worker who kicked in their front door and then handcuffed and duct-taped them, The Baltimore Banner reported, citing a source with knowledge of the investigation. The woman was allegedly raped and her neck cut. She and the man were then doused with some kind of liquid and set on fire, the Banner reported. Worley said Thursday that Billingsley knew the victims, worked at the building, and went into their home for a criminal reason. Billingsley was released on parole last October after serving several years of a 30-year sentence with all but 14 years suspended for a first-degree sex offense to which he pleaded guilty in 2015. He had separately pleaded guilty to first-degree assault in 2009 and second-degree assault in 2011, The Baltimore Banner reported. Billingsley is listed on Marylands sex offender registry. Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott has said that Billingsley never should have been out of prison. Theres no way in hell that he should have been on the street, the mayor said at a press conference Tuesday. We are tired of talking about the same people committing the same kind of crimes over and over again. Worley said his department is looking to see whether Billingsley may be connected to any other crimes since his release from prison in October. Ivan Bates, the States Attorney for Baltimore City, said his office plans to seek life in prison for him without the possibility of parole. Related... Maryland authorities said a suspect has been arrested in the killing of a Baltimore-based tech entrepreneur. The Baltimore Police Department announced early Thursday the arrest of Jason Billingsley, who is suspected in the killing of Pava LaPere. Authorities found LaPere dead in her apartment building with signs of blunt force trauma on her head after she was reported missing Monday evening. Authorities had issued an arrest warrant for Billingsley, saying he was wanted on a first-degree murder charge connected to LaPeres death. Baltimore police also said Billingsley, 32, is also a person of interest in an attempted murder, rape, and arson incident that occurred earlier this month, according to The Associated Press. Billingsley was paroled last year in an earlier sexual assault case, the AP reported, with court records showing he pleaded guilty to first-degree sex assault in 2015. The Hill has reached out to Baltimore Police Department for comment and more information. LaPere, a Johns Hopkins University graduate, founded tech startup EcoMap Technologies while she was still in school. EcoMap Technologies curates data to make information more accessible across social ecosystems. The companys clients includes Meta and the Aspen Institute. Family and friends held a vigil for the 26-year-old tech entrepreneur, with many remembering her as someone who shifted her focus to building within her community and saying her entrepreneurship created meaningful social change. LaPere was named to the Forbes magazines 30 Under 30 List earlier this year for social impact. She knew what she wanted to accomplish and there was nothing that would get in her way, LaPeres father, Frank LaPere, told those in attendance at her vigil Wednesday night, according to The Associated Press. The Associated Press contributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A suspect has been arrested over the murder of a Baltimore tech chief executive, following a citywide manhunt. Related: Defying a decade of gun violence in Baltimore in pictures Jason Billingsley, 32, was arrested on charges of first-degree murder on Wednesday by Baltimore police over the killing of 26-year-old Pava LaPere. Billingsley was reportedly apprehended at a Maryland train station, ending a day-long manhunt for the suspect. At a Thursday press conference, the acting Baltimore police commissioner called Billingsley a psychopath. Richard Worley said LaPere was probably killed on Friday night but police declined to share further details of her killing, citing the familys request for privacy. Worley said there was no evidence of forced entry into LaPeres apartment. Billingsley is also accused over an arson attack in Baltimore that happened last Tuesday, Worley said, adding that the attack was targeted and that Billingsley was familiar with the victims. Billingsley also reportedly stole a weapon. Worley could not confirm if Billingsley was armed when taken into custody. Worley said police officials had been tracking Billingsley since last week. Police used Billingsleys financial records, previous calls from jail and other information to track and eventually locate him, Worley added. When asked how Billingsley was able to allegedly commit a violent act despite being tracked, Worley said officials held a press conference after realizing Billingsley was suspected of a random act of violence. LaPere, the chief executive of the Baltimore-based startup EcoMap Technologies, was first declared missing on Monday. Hours later, she was found dead in her apartment complex with blunt force trauma to the head. Officials began to search for Billingsley, though officials did not confirm what evidence connects him to LaPeres death. Billingsley has previously been convicted of several violent crimes, according to the Washington Post. Arrested in 2009, 2011 and 2015, he was serving a 30-year prison sentence for a first-degree sex offense, but had 14 years of the sentence suspended, according to the Post. Latoya Gray, a spokeswoman for the Maryland public safety department, told the paper that Billingsley was a registered sex offender who was released from prison last October on mandatory supervision. Billingsley is required to re-register with the sex offender registry every three months, but failed to comply on 25 September, prompting a warrant for his arrest. Police are also investigating if Billingsley was involved in a separate attempted murder and rape that occurred earlier this month, NBC News reported. Billingsley was described as a repeat violent offender by the Baltimore city states attorney, Ivan Bates, at a news conference earlier. Baltimores mayor, Brandon Scott, said Billingsley should never have been released, according to the Post. A spokesperson with the district of Marylands US marshals office confirmed Billingsleys arrest to the Guardian, but referred further questions to the Baltimore police department. A vigil was held for LaPere on Wednesday evening. The entrepreneur, a 2023 Forbes 30 under 30 awardee, was remembered by friends and family as an innovative leader. She was the definition of daddys little girl. She had me rapt, and still does. She turned from being daddys little girl into being a girl boss, and she treated me the same way, said LaPeres father, Frank LaPere. A Rock Hill man has been charged with passing a robbery note to a teller at a credit union Wednesday afternoon, police said. No money was taken and no one was hurt, Rock Hill police Lt. Michael Chavis said Thursday. Herbert Barnes, 57, was taken into custody later in the day after the incident happened around 2:30 p.m. at the Family Trust branch on Progress Way, according to a statement from the Rock Hill Police Department. Barnes is charged with entering a building with intent to steal, police said in a statement. The branch is adjacent to Dave Lyle Boulevard, near commercial areas and Interstate 77. Barnes allegedly passed a note to a teller that stated: This is a robbery give me everything behind the counter, police said in the written statement. No weapon was shown, police said. The suspect then left the bank on foot, police said. Police took Barnes into custody later in the afternoon off nearby Lakeshore Parkway, officials said. Barnes was denied bail Thursday morning after an appearance in Rock Hill Municipal Court, Chavis said. The offense is a felony in South Carolina, state law shows. Earlier incidents not connected The incident is the second in the city in just over a week. On Sept. 19, police said a male suspect handed a teller a robbery note at a TD Bank branch off Celanese Road before fleeing. Chavis said Thursday that police investigators believe the Sept. 19 incident and Wednesdays incident are not connected. No charges have been filed in the Sept. 19 case. The investigation remains ongoing, Chavis said Thursday. New details show the man was arrested Tuesday afternoon after barricading himself in a Budget Inn & Suites just north of the Des Moines city limits has a long history of drug-related charges. Scott Eugene Smith, 42, faces 13 charges stemming from the incident including attempted murder, felon in possession of a firearm, and interference with official acts, according to a news release from the sheriff's office on Tuesday evening. He is also facing narcotics, theft and traffic charges. A majority of them are lower-level felonies. A deputy tried to pull Smith over for failing to stop at a stop sign around 10:15 a.m. Tuesday in the parking lot of the hotel at 5220 NE 14th St., said Polk County Sheriff's Capt. Ryan Evans. He then fled on foot, pointed a gun and shot two rounds at the deputy who was exiting the patrol vehicle, according to court documents. The deputy was not hit and no law enforcement officers were injured in the standoff, Evans said. Smith then barricaded himself in the hotel, resulting in a standoff that lasted about four hours before police took him into custody around 2:20 p.m. More: Suspect identified, charged after Des Moines standoff at hotel ends without injuries He had a variety of drugs in his possession at the time he was pulled over, according to the criminal complaints. An officer in the affidavit said that the amount of marijuana, counterfeit pills, heroin believed to include fentanyl, methamphetamine, psilocybin mushrooms and firearms are, "indicative of drug distribution and are inconsistent with mere possession for personal use." One of the firearms in Smith's car was stolen, according to the court filings. What was Eugene Smith charged with after the Des Moines standoff? The 13 counts, made available in Iowa court records on Wednesday, include: 4 counts of controlled substance violation. One a class B felony, two class C felonies and one class D felony 1 count of possession of a controlled substance, a class D felony 2 counts of failure to affix drug stamp, a class D felony 1 count of used or expired drug tax stamp, a class D felony 1 count of attempted murder of a peace officer, a class B felony 1 count of interference with official acts - dangerous weapon, a class D felony 1 count of unauthorized possession of offensive weapons, a class D felony 1 count of theft in the 4th degree, a serious misdemeanor 1 count of failure to obey a traffic control device, a scheduled violation Smith's felony criminal history in Iowa dates back to 1999 with 14 cases, mostly related to possession of a controlled substance. He has also been previously convicted in cases of theft, controlled substance violation and possession of a weapon as a felon. Noelle Alviz-Gransee is a breaking news reporter at the Des Moines Register. Follow her on Twitter@NoelleHannika or email her at NAlvizGransee@registermedia.com. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Des Moines standoff suspect Scott Smith facing 13 new felony charges Documents obtained by Insider reveal new details on Jason Billingsley, suspect in tech CEO Pava LaPere's death. In 2015, Billingsley pleaded guilty to a first-degree sex offense, receiving a 30-year sentence. The victim in the prior case told police that Billingsley forced her to give him oral sex at knifepoint. Content warning: This story mentions a description of sexual assault. The suspect accused of murdering Maryland tech CEO Pava LaPere pleaded guilty to a violent sex crime in 2015, and was released seven years into a 30-year sentence. According to an application for a statement of charges obtained by Insider, in 2013, Billingsley was charged with assault and attempted rape. Billingsley was accused of assaulting a woman, threatening her with a knife, and forcing her to give him oral sex at knifepoint, according to the court document. The woman told officials with the Baltimore Police Department that after a fight with her boyfriend, Billingsley passed by where she was sitting and invited her to stay with him. After she agreed, Billingsley brought her to a home and claimed he had locked his keys inside, asking the woman to climb into a window and unlock the house. Once inside, Billingsley told the woman that he wanted to have sex, per the complaint. After she said no, he hit her in the head, strangled her, and pulled out a knife, the woman told BPD. At that point, Billingsley told the woman to give him oral sex, and out of fear for her safety, she complied, the woman told police, per the statement. Afterward, Billingsley then took $53 from her wallet and left, threatening her to keep quiet because, he told her, "my aunt is a police officer," according to the statement. That night, the woman flagged down a stranger who transported her to a hospital, where she underwent a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam. In 2015, Billingsley pleaded guilty to a first-degree sex offense, and received a 30-year sentence, James Bentley, a spokesman for the Baltimore State's Attorney Office told Insider. "He plead guilty to the commission of a crime of violence and received 30 years suspend all but 14 years and 5 years' probation from the judge," Bentley told Insider. "Generally, for crimes of violence, offenders only serve half to three-quarters of the time given." Billingsley was released in October 2022. On Monday, BPD said that LaPere, the founder and CEO of EcoMap Technologies, who recently made it to the Forbes 30 under 30 list, was found dead at an apartment with signs of blunt-force trauma. Later on Tuesday, BPD announced a warrant for the arrest of Billingsley, and Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott said that there "was no way in hell" that Billingsley should have been released in October 2022. "This individual will kill and he will rape," acting BPD commissioner Richard Worley said at the conference, adding a message to Billingsley. "Every single police officer in Baltimore city and the state of Maryland, as well US Marshals, are looking for you." Police said that a missing persons call was made about LaPere shortly before her body was found. Authorities did not provide Insider with details on who reported LaPere missing. Read the original article on Insider A death in a small town in Cleveland County earlier this year turned out to be a murder and attempted cover-up, according to the sheriffs office on Thursday. The Cleveland County Sheriffs Office posted a video on Thursday with an update on a death investigation that started in April in Waco, North Carolina. READ MORE: Cleveland Co. deputies issue warning about people claiming to work for the school system The sheriff said the victim, Clifford Ward, was found dead with a metal object in his head. He was found outside his home on Racine Drive by a friend, who then called authorities. Investigators found the scene suspicious and began asking questions, including interviewing the victims nephew. The nephew, identified as David Ward, told investigators that the victim was prone to falling and he said that the victim had fallen, leading to his death. The sheriffs office says David Ward quickly became a person of interest after learning that he had deposited a check from the victims account for a large sum of money. During the investigation, the state medical examiners office revealed that Clifford Ward had been shot in the back of the head, and that the metal object had been placed in his head to conceal the crime, according to the sheriffs office. SEE IT >> NC couple takes down armed burglary suspect wanted in several counties Five months later, detectives say David Ward is being charged with murder. He was arrested on Thursday for first-degree murder and obtaining property by false pretense. Search warrants obtained by Channel 9 say that David also forgot to tell investigators that he ran several errands on the day of Cliffords death, including going home while carrying a gun, washing his truck, and changing his clothes. The warrant also says that before the murder, David asked a neighbor what he could put in his uncles drink to kill him. Davids father and Cliffords brother, Steven Ward, spoke to Channel 9s Ken Lemon on Thursday and said Clifford was close with David. He shared a cell phone video of Clifford and David joking while driving. Steven said his brother was training David to eventually take over the farm, so there was no reason to commit murder. He says he lost his brother in a horrible way, and now he fears he is losing his son. I love my son, Steven told Lemon. According to the sheriffs office, David is being held in the Cleveland County Detention Center with no bond. A mugshot wasnt made available. (WATCH: Prosecutors seeking death penalty in Florida Lyft driver murder) Thirty people were arrested across two counties amid an anti-gang operation triggered by the shooting of a Stockton police sergeant in August, California's attorney general announced Thursday. Among those arrested was 19-year-old Brandon Rogers, charged this week with attempted murder of a peace officer, the statement said. Two others, whose names were not released, were charged with accessory after the fact, according to the statement. The Sept. 21 operation which spanned San Joaquin and Yuba counties also thwarted a planned shooting, according to the AG's office. The announcement, which came days after the sweep, sheds light on new details of the Aug. 2. shooting in north Stockton that left a police sergeant relying on his bullet-proof vest to save his life. Law enforcement also revealed that casings collected at the scene indicated "that four different caliber firearms were used to fire over 70 rounds during the shooting," that followed a carjacking. That morning, according to police, the sergeant had been pursuing a Lexus police believed a group of people had violently stolen from a 69-year-old man minutes before. When the officer caught up with the car at the intersection of Gateway Court and Kentfield Drive near the Jamestown neighborhood multiple people got out and opened gunfire, according to police. The sergeant was struck in the chest and shoulder, and rushed to the hospital, police said. Later that day, 20-year-old Sunthawon Savon was arrested and later charged with attempted murder of a peace officer. Until the Sept. 21 operation, the remaining suspects evaded arrest, according to the attorney general's statement. No evidence has yet been presented against either any of the defendants. During the Sept. 21 operation, law enforcement also confiscated 20 guns, including two "ghost guns" and four assault weapons, the attorney general's statement said. This is a developing story. Check back at recordnet.com for updates. This article originally appeared on The Record: Sergeant shooting suspect Brandon Rogers arrested in gang operation The suspect accused of murdering a beloved Baltimore tech CEO was captured on surveillance footage knocking at the front door of her apartment building days before her body was found, charging documents allege. According to an application for statement of charges filed in court, video showed that the victim, Pava LaPere, entered her building at 10:32 p.m. on Friday night. The footage reveals LaPere then got up from the couch in the lobby of the buildingwhich also housed her firm EcoMap Technologiesand walked to the front door. A camera on the door showed a tall bald light skin black male wearing black glasses[,] a grey hooded sweat shirt, Black shorts walking up the steps and look[ing] through the glass door, the court filing states. That man, police say, was 32-year-old convicted felon Jason Billingsley, who was already a suspect in connection with an arson, rape, and attempted murder of a family two weeks prior, and spurred a citywide manhunt that ended on Wednesday night, when he was arrested at a train station. He waved to the victim inside the lobby to come to the door, the document states, adding that LaPere let her alleged killer inside and began to speak to him, before they got on an elevator together. According to the document, the suspect was spotted around 11:08 p.m. leaving the stairwell into the lobby with his grey hooded sweat shirt in his hand scrambling for an exit. He wiped his hand on his shorts before he exited the building. Detectives would identify Billingsley as the suspect on Tuesday using departmental databases and after speaking to a witness who was able to identify him from the surveillance footage. That witness, the filing states, will be identified and appear in court at a later date. The legal document said that cops were led to the roof of the building by a coworker, and that they found LaPere half clothed with apparent trauma to the head, face, and body. A brick, broken hair clip, and pair of shoes were among the items discovered at the scene, where emergency responders pronounced her dead. The statement added that the chief medical examiners office ruled LaPeres death a homicide by strangulation and blunt force trauma. On Tuesday, Baltimore police held a press conference warning the public that Billingsley was armed and dangerous. During another media update on Thursday, cops said Billingsley went on the lam after seeing himself on the news. As soon as the news conference happened the other day, he basically left the location where he was at. We did a search warrant at one location; he had just left because he saw the news conference, Acting Police Commissioner Richard Worley said in a Thursday press conference announcing the arrest. Murdered Tech CEO Was Passionate Go-Getter Who Wanted to Change the World Billingsley, a registered sex offender with a violent criminal history, is now in custody on a slew of crimes connected to two harrowing incidents. Police say that on Sept. 19, Billingsley targeted a family he knew in an incident that involved a five-year-old and left a man and woman critically injured. According to a charging document, officers initially responded that day to reports of a fire that involved a male, female, and a minor. During the investigation, authorities learned that the incident began when the female victim heard a loud banging on the door by an individual who identified themselves as maintenance. She stated that the suspect kicked in the front door and pointed a gun at her, duct tapped her and handcuffed the other victim, the report states, adding that she was then raped, slashed (cut) across the neck with a knife before Billingsley allegedly poured an unknown liquid on her. Then, Billingsley allegedly set them on fire in the basement of the house. Days later, around Sept. 22, police believe Billingsley murdered LaPerea Johns Hopkins University graduate once featured on Forbes 30 Under 30 listat her apartment building. Citing sources with knowledge of the investigation, the Baltimore Banner reported that police found LaPere on the roof of the West Franklin apartment complex around 11:30 a.m. on Monday. Authorities did not reveal on Thursday whether there was a previous connection between LePere and her alleged murderer. Worley, however, said there was no forced entry to LePeres apartment. LaPeres death spurred authorities to publicly announce Billingsley as a suspect on Tuesday, though police said that they had been tracking him for days prior to the previous incident. Worley said that just prior to the Tuesday press conference, authorities were close to arresting Billingsley, but he evaded authorities. Billingsley was ultimately arrested on Wednesday evening without incident around 11 p.m. We are going to put this violent individual, this repeat offender, back in jail where he belongs, Worley said. Police said Billingsley has an extensive criminal history, including arrests in 2009, 2011, and 2013 related to several offenses, like second-degree assault charges, and robbery. The Maryland sex offender registry also shows that Billingsley was convicted of a first-degree sex offense in 2015 and released in October 2022 on parole. It is very clear that this individual posed a substantial danger, that he had been noncompliant and was clearly violating the terms of his supervision after being released, and that alone should be enough to make sure that we keep him off the streets, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott said. I hope this sends a message to everybody else who likes to commit these kinds of cowardly, horrendous acts that we will not tolerate it and we will pull you off the streets of Baltimore. Police documents from the 2013 crime that sent Billingsley to prison paint a horrifying picture of how he attacked and sexually assaulted a woman after luring her into a home that may not have been his. He was convicted and sentenced to 30 years before he got out on parole last fall. In June 2013, police met the victim at the hospital where she was being treated for her injuries. She told cops that she had an argument with her boyfriend around 1 a.m. and left his home. She walked down the street and sat on the steps of a vacant building to collect her thoughts. She states that is when the suspect known only to her as Jason approached her and asked her what was wrong, a police report stated. Billingsley then offered to give her a place to stay for the night. She agreed to go with him and the two walked to an unknown House, the document added. He told her that he locked his keys inside of the house and that she would have to climb through the window and unlock the front door for him. Once she did, they went to a bedroom and talked. Billingsley then told her he wanted to have sex with her. But when she announced she was leaving, he hit her and began to strangle her. He then brandished a knife and forced her to perform oral sex, before stealing $53 from her wallet. He ordered her to leave but as she reached the door he warned her, You better not tell anyone about this. My aunt is a police officer. Know [sic] one will believe you. 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. Police outside Rotterdam's Erasmus Medical Centre, where they made the arrest - Bas Czerwinski/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock At least three people were wounded in the Netherlands in shootings that began at a house in the city of Rotterdam and continued in a classroom at a nearby medical centre. A 32-year-old suspect wearing combat fatigues was later arrested on the Erasmus Medical Centres helipad. Video from the scene showed heavily armed police wearing body armour entering the hospital, while people, some holding up their hands, left the building. Another person was injured in a home nearby, Rotterdam police said in a message on X, formerly Twitter. Armed police wearing full body armour were seen entering the hospital - Sem van der Wal/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Fire also broke out at the home, local security authorities said. The blaze was quickly extinguished. People gather outside the Erasmus Medical Centre after it was cordoned off by police - Bas Czerwinski/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Police said they were investigating the arrested mans possible involvement in both shootings. At least three people were wounded in the shootings before police made the arrest - Bas Czerwinski/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Further details were not immediately available. 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. OTAY MESA, Calif. Authorities are asking for the publics help in locating four suspects in connection to a deadly shooting in Otay Mesa. According to the San Diego County Sheriffs Department, Cal Fire San Diego firefighters located a man who had been shot near the base of the U.S.-Mexico border fence around 1:30 p.m. on Friday, July 28. Sheriffs deputies were called in to investigate the shooting. Top 8 San Diego area suburbs for first-time homeowners: study The victims location was reported to be about three miles east of the Otay Mesa Port of Entry. He told deputies that he and his friend had crossed into the U.S. through a gap in the border fence the night before, authorities explained. After crossing, the man says they were contacted by a group of four Hispanic men. The suspects reportedly asked the victim and his friend who they had paid to cross the border, SDSO explained further. When the victim informed the suspects they had not paid, he and his friend were allegedly forced to walk up a mountain, ordered to get on their knees, and then were both shot, authorities said. Scripps Health cutting ties with insurance covering thousands of SD seniors After the suspects left, the victim told authorities he checked on his friend, but he was deceased. He then walked along the border fence until he ran into Cal Fire San Diego firefighters. At this time, the only information on the suspects are composite sketches of three of the four men involved in the shootings. Suspect No. 1 shooter Suspect No. 2 suspect Why do Californians pay so much for gas? Suspect No. 3 suspect Anyone with information about this incident or that may recognize any of the suspects are encouraged to call the Sheriffs Homicide Unit at (858) 285-6330. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. A SWAT situation ended Wednesday evening with police finding out that a man who had fled from officers was not inside a Central El Paso home, police said. The scene was cleared at about 6 p.m. in what had begun as a search for a man who had fled from the Gang Unit during a vehicle pursuit about five hours earlier in a neighborhood near El Paso High School. The man, whose name has not been released, fled from El Paso Police Department officers before 1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27, after a vehicle chase near Brown Street and Arizona Avenue, police officials said. El Paso police Gang Unit searched for the suspect and believed he had locked himself inside a home, officials said. The El Paso Police Department's SWAT team deals with a barricaded person Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, inside a Central El Paso home near Brown Street and Arizona Avenue. The man refused to exit the house. The SWAT team was then called to the scene. El Paso High School, Wiggs Middle School and Lamar Elementary School were placed on "secure protocols" as police investigated the situation, El Paso Independent School District officials said. "El Paso ISD extends its gratitude to the El Paso Police Department and other law enforcement agencies who helped the district ensure the safety and security of students at three campuses during a situation in the area," district officials said in a statement. "Out of an abundance of caution, El Paso High School, Wiggs Middle School and Lamar Elementary School entered into Secure protocols late this morning after word of an incident involving law enforcement in the vicinity of the campuses, which all sit within a one-mile radius of each other. El Paso ISD Police remained present on all three campuses and maintained communication with local law enforcement and first response agencies until the Secure protocols were lifted at school dismissal time." District police officers will "maintain a presence at all campuses Thursday, Sept. 28," as a precaution, officials said. No further information has been released. This story will be updated as more information is released. This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: SWAT situation ends near El Paso High School By Johan Ahlander STOCKHOLM (Reuters) -Sweden's prime minister summoned the head of the armed forces and the police commissioner in a bid to stem gang violence, he said on Thursday, following a wave of violence that has taken at least 11 lives in September alone. Two people were killed in separate shootings in Stockholm on Wednesday, and a woman in her 20s, thought to be an innocent bystander, was killed when a bomb tore up a house in Uppsala in the early hours of Thursday. "This is a difficult time for Sweden. A 25-year-old woman went to bed last night on a completely ordinary evening but never got to wake up," Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said during a rare televised address to the nation. "We will hunt the gangs, we will defeat the gangs," he said. Kristersson formed a centre-right minority government after last year's election with support of the populist and anti-immigrant Sweden Democrats, ending eight years of Social Democrat-led governments in Sweden. His coalition won the election partly on a promise to stem growing gang violence, and it has launched a series of initiatives, such as greater powers to police and harsher punishment for gun crimes. The measures have yet to take effect, but Kristersson blamed former governments for the problems. "It is an irresponsible immigration policy and a failed integration that has brought us here," Kristersson said. Sweden had liberal immigration policies for many decades and took in more immigrants per capita than any other European nation during the 2015 migration crisis. Those policies were reversed by the former Social Democrat-led government, but have been tightened by Kristersson's government. About 20% of Sweden's 10.5 million inhabitants were born abroad. Earlier on Thursday, the opposition Social Democrats, the biggest party in parliament, called on the government to change the law, allowing the military to help stop the gang violence. "This is not Sweden, this is not how Sweden is supposed to be," Social Democrat leader Magdalena Andersson told a news conference. Kristersson said he had summoned the national police commissioner and the supreme commander of the armed forces to evaluate the options. The police estimate that about 30,000 people in Sweden are directly involved with or have ties to gang crime. The violence has also spread from major urban areas to smaller towns where violent crime was previously rare. Earlier this week, two people were shot dead and two injured when a gunman opened fire at a bar in Sandviken. The 11 shooting deaths this month make September the deadliest month since December 2019. "The criminal conflicts in Sweden are a serious threat to the safety and security of the country," National Police Commissioner Anders Thornberg said in a statement. "Innocents are murdered and injured. We are doing everything we can within the police and together with others to stop the development." (Reporting by Johan AhlanderEditing by Bill Berkrot and Leslie Adler) By John Revill ZURICH (Reuters) -A former member of a Belarusian special unit accused of involvement in the disappearances of prominent opposition figures was acquitted by a Swiss court. The case marked the first time a Swiss court had heard a case involving enforced disappearance. The defendant had sought asylum in Switzerland, arguing his life was at risk in Belarus due to his willingness to speak out about his involvement with the special unit known as SOBR that made opponents of President Alexander Lukashenko disappear. The District Court in Rorshach, northeastern Switzerland, acquitted the man on Thursday after a two-day hearing last week. "Due to the defendant's contradictory statements, his actual involvement in the disappearances of Yuri Zakharenko, Viktor Gonchar and Anatoly Krasovsky in 1999 cannot be considered legally proven," the court said in a statement. The involvement of the Belarus government in the disappearances could also not be proven beyond reasonable doubt because it was not represented in the proceedings, the court said. The man, aged 45, has not been named because of Swiss reporting restrictions. The case relates to the 1999 disappearance of former interior minister Yuri Zakharenko, Viktor Gonchar, a former deputy prime minister, and businessman Anatoly Krosovsky. Authorities in Belarus refused to help their families find them. The man, who was arrested in 2021 and formally charged last year, has admitted to being involved in detaining the three men but denies that he either ordered or carried out their murder. The case marks the first time an enforced disappearance case has been tried in Switzerland under the principle of universal jurisdiction, which allows states to prosecute individuals suspected of having committed international crimes, regardless of nationality or where the offences were committed. It followed criminal claims by the daughters of two of the disappeared men, supported by Geneva-based group Trial International, the International Federation for Human Rights, and the Viasna Human Rights Center. The groups said they were disappointed with the outcome, while one of the daughters said she would appeal the court's decision. In an interview published earlier this month, the accused said he was involved in arresting the men, but he "neither ordered nor carried out the murders". "I was merely a witness to them," he said. (Reporting by John Revill; Editing by Barbara Lewis and Daniel Wallis) Sydney Powell left a Summit County courtroom in tears Thursday after being sentenced to life in prison for the slaying of her mother. Powell, 23, will be eligible for parole after 15 years. Powell was convicted in a jury trial in Summit County Common Pleas Court of murder and other charges related to the death of her mother Brenda Powell in March 2020. Sydney Powell waits for her sentencing in Summit County Common Pleas Judge Kelly McLaughlin's courtroom. She was sentenced to 15 to life for the slaying of her mother. Sydneys attorneys argued that she was not guilty by reason of insanity and called three experts who said Sydney had a psychotic break. Prosecutors, though, called a fourth expert who said Sydney wasnt insane when she hit her mother in the head with a cast-iron skillet and stabbed her more than 30 times with a steak knife in the neck. Powell plans to appeal. This wasnt justice, Don Malarcik, Sydneys attorney, said after her sentencing. Malarcik asked Judge Kelly McLaughlin to impose the minimum sentence of 15 years to life. Prosecutors, though, urged McLaughlin to impose an additional three years in prison for a tampering charge. McLaughlin followed the defenses recommendation in imposing the minimum sentence. Powell's family members didn't want her to be tried Steven Powell, Sydney's father and Brenda Powell's husband, and Betsy Brown, Sydney's maternal grandmother, had urged prosecutors not to take Sydney's case to trial and to reach a resolution. Prosecutors moved forward with the trial anyway, saying they would leave it to a jury to decide. During Sydney's trial, which spanned three weeks, defense expert James Reardon said Sydney suffered a psychotic break when she killed her mother. He was one of three defense experts who evaluated Sydney and diagnosed her with schizophrenia. They found that, because of this mental disorder, she didnt understand the wrongfulness of her actions when she killed her mother. Sylvia OBradovich, however, a psychologist hired by prosecutors, disagreed with the three defense experts. She said Sydney didnt meet the legal definition of insanity at the time of the crime. OBradovich, who is with Summit Psychological Associates, said Sydney does have mental health issues, including borderline personality traits, malingering and an unspecified anxiety disorder. Malarcik asked jurors to weigh the evaluations of three experts with a combined 50 years of experience versus a psychologist who was testifying for the first time in a trial weighing insanity as a reason for the crime. He said the prosecution wanted jurors to believe that Sydney fooled multiple medical experts and others. Assistant Prosecutor Brian Stano, however, said Sydney killed her mother because she had just found out Sydney had been kicked out of Mount Union University and didn't want her secret to be revealed. He said Brenda was on the phone with Mount Union officials when Sydney attacked her. "Sydney stopped attacking with the pan, presumably went to the kitchen with a knife," Stano said. "She had to switch weapons and keep attacking her." "Just the knife just in the neck multiple times? That is purposeful. That is trying to end someone," Stano said. Jurors convicted Powell of all the charges she faced: two counts of murder one that means purposely causing a death and the other that involves causing a death as the result of a felonious assault as well as felonious assault and tampering with evidence. Attorney says Sydney's family supports her 'no matter what' Several of Sydneys family members and friends attended her sentencing. Attorney Jeff Laybourne, who represents the Powell family, said none of them wished to speak. He said they expressed their views before and during the trial when they testified. He said many of them also sent letters to the court. Sydney Powell listens to Jeff Laybourne, her family's attorney, during her sentencing in Summit County Common Pleas Court. She was sentenced to 15 to life for the slaying of her mother. The tone and tenor of letters is consistent with what the court saw and continues to see today, Laybourne said. They love and support Sydney no matter what. This statement made Sydney, who was dressed in an orange jail jumpsuit, cry for the first of several times during her sentencing. Steven Powell, Sydney's father, listens to family attorney Jeff Laybourne speak during Sydney's sentencing in Summit County Common Pleas Court. Sydney was sentenced to life in prison with possible parole after 15 years. Laybourne asked McLaughlin to urge prison officials to make sure Powell gets the mental health treatment she needs while shes incarcerated. He noted that the Ohio State Reformatory for Women in Marysville, Ohios main prison for women, has a new mental health treatment facility. A case like this exposes the tragedy of the legislature removing discretion from judges who have few, limited options, Laybourne said. This is the type of case that would be ideal for the judge who handled the case to use the discretion we voted to give you to impose a sentence more befitting the conduct and the wishes of the family. Prosecutor says many in community think jury got it right Stano acknowledged how Sydney has the support of her family and close friends but also said his office has heard from many in the community who knew Brenda, who was a child life specialist at Akron Children's Hospital. There is a large part of the community that does feel justice was served in this case and the jury did get it right, he said. Brenda Powell. Stano conceded that the two murder charges would likely merge but not that the felonious assault charge would merge. Assistant Summit County Prosecutor Brian Stano (left) speaks during Sydney Powell's sentencing in Summit County Common Pleas Court. Stano urged McLaughlin to impose an additional three years for the tampering with evidence charge. He pointed to steps Powell took after her mothers slaying, such as breaking a window to make it look like someone had broken into the house. We always do our best to take into account the victims wishes, but we represent the community as a whole, Stano said. We try to be consistent with our recommendations. Attorney urges judge to impose minimum sentence Malarcik, though, said the felonious assault charge should merge with the murder charges because they are allied and not separate offenses. He also argued that McLaughlin should impose the minimum sentence, pointing to Sydneys undiagnosed mental health issues and the unlikelihood of her committing future crimes, especially because her lack of a prior record. Malarcik said Sydney was on bond for three-and-a-half years and never violated the conditions, including keeping up with her medication and attending all her counseling and medical appointments. Malarcik said prosecutors again ignored the wishes of the Powell family in recommending a sentence above the minimum. He asked McLaughlin to give more weight to the Powell family than to the unnamed people who reached out to the prosecutors office. Listen to the people most affected by the crime the individuals in this court, he said, pointing to Steven Powell and others in the gallery. Sydney, who was advised against it by Malarcik, chose not to speak. Summit County Common Pleas Judge Kelly McLaughlin listens during Sydney Powell's sentencing in her courtroom. McLaughlin sentenced Powell to 15 years to life. McLaughlin said she read the many letters she received from the family and people in the community. I am terribly sorry for your loss, she told the Powell family. I cannot imagine what youve been through. McLaughlin merged the two murder and one felonious assault charges and sentenced Powell to life in prison with possible parole after 15 years. She sentenced her to three years on the tampering charge, but ran this concurrent, for a total of 15 years to life in prison. Attorney is hopeful Sydney will prevail in her appeal After the sentencing, Malarcik said he understood prosecutors were going to defer to the court on Powells sentence. Sydney Powell listens to her attorney Don Malarcik after her sentencing in Summit County Common Pleas Judge Kelly McLaughlin's courtroom. Powell was sentenced to 15 to life for the slaying of her mother. Malarcik said he was shocked that Stano asked for additional time on the tampering charge and suggested that the felonious assault charge might not merge, which is often done in murder cases. Malarcik said Sydney was willing to plead to manslaughter but prosecutors refused this offer and insisted on trying her for murder even though three experts found she was insane when she killed her mother. Malarcik said he hopes Sydney is successful in her appeal and that the case comes back to Summit County Common Pleas Court. If that happens, he said he hed like to see a special prosecutor appointed who will listen to the wishes of the victims. Prosecutors declined after the sentencing to respond to Malarciks comments. Stephanie Warsmith can be reached at swarsmith@thebeaconjournal.com, 330-996-3705 and on Twitter: @swarsmithabj. This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Sydney Powell is sentenced to life in prison for mother's slaying Taiwan has made an important move toward modernizing its submarine force, with the launch of the countrys first domestically-made submarine . The advanced diesel-electric design is part of a program that seeks to eventually field eight new boats for a much-needed overhaul of Taiwans aging submarine force, one that will still be vastly outnumbered by Chinas fast-growing underwater armada . Taiwans President Tsai Ing Wen presided over the launch ceremony for the Hai Kun (SS-711) in the southern port city of Kaohsiung today. The name Hai Kun has been said to describe a mythical giant flying fish, popular in Chinese literature, but also has been translated into English as Narwhal. Taiwans first locally built submarine, the Hai Kun, is seen during the unveiling ceremony at the CSBC Corp. shipbuilding company in Kaohsiung today. Photo by SAM YEH/AFP via Getty Images History will forever remember this day, Ms. Tsai said during the ceremony. In the past, a domestically made submarine was considered impossible, but today a submarine designed and built by our countrymen is in front of you, she added. It is the concrete realization of our resolution to protect [Taiwan]. Taiwanese President Tsai Ing Wen (center) poses for a photo during a ceremony to unveil the first locally built submarine, the Hai Kun, at the CSBC Corp. shipbuilding company in Kaohsiung on September 28, 2023. Photo by SAM YEH/AFP via Getty Images https://www.twitter.com/taiwanplusnews/status/1707211796007080355?s=20 Reportedly coming with a price tag of $1.54 billion, the new submarine was built by Taiwans China Shipbuilding Corporation (CSBC Corp.). According to reports from Taiwan, the new submarine is around 260 feet long and has a displacement of between 2,460 and 2,950 tons. Although unconfirmed, the Hai Kun is thought to feature some form of air-independent propulsion (AIP) system , which should greatly increase the time it can stay submerged and make it harder to detect. Otherwise, the appearance of the new submarine is immediately reminiscent of the Dutch-built Hai Lung class boats that Taiwan already operates. Taiwanese sailors salute aboard the Hai Lung class submarine Hai Hu, which was commissioned into ROCN service in 1988. AP/Chiang Ying-ying It has also been suggested, by some observers, that the overall quality of the finish on the new boat leaves something to be desired, especially around the sail, perhaps reflecting the pace with which the first-of-class submarine was completed. https://www.twitter.com/AlexLuck9/status/1707347860587778266?s=20 https://www.twitter.com/AlexLuck9/status/1707351187752894887?s=20 https://www.twitter.com/AlexLuck9/status/1707344948180517088?s=20 The Hai Kun will next undergo pre-service trials, before being delivered to the Republic of China Navy (ROCN), which is planned to happen before the end of 2024. A second boat of the same design is now under construction and is reportedly expected to enter service in 2027. Eventually, Taiwan aims to operate a fleet of 10 submarines the eight Hai Kun class boats plus two older Hai Lung class boats, built in the Netherlands in the mid-1980s but subject to a mid-life upgrade that began in 2016. The introduction of the new submarines will finally allow for the replacement of the two veteran Hai Shih class boats, which were originally built as Tench class and Balao class submarines during World War II. They were transferred to Taiwan from U.S. Navy stocks in 197374 and are reportedly now used exclusively for training, with some reports suggesting that they no longer go to sea at all. Hai Shih is the former USS Cutlass, a Tench class submarine that was originally launched in November 1944. CPJ2028/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS While building new submarines is clearly a source of pride for Taiwan, they have been realized with a significant amount of foreign assistance. The vital combat mission systems are provided by Lockheed Martin, and the United States will also supply their armament of Harpoon anti-ship missiles and Mk 48 heavyweight torpedoes . At least six other countries have also provided help, including the United Kingdom, according to reports . Reuters has also suggested that Taiwan engaged engineers, technicians, and former naval officers from Australia, Canada, India, Spain, and South Korea, to help with the sub-building program. While this cannot be confirmed, the fact that foreign expertise of any kind has been involved is a significant development and one that will no doubt lead to concerns in Beijing. https://twitter.com/YDN_NEWS/status/1707265000577085726?s=20 We had a lot of difficulties acquiring submarines from other countries, said Lo Chih Cheng, a lawmaker for the ruling Democratic Progressive Party and member of the Foreign Affairs and National Defense Committee, according to a report in Time magazine. No countries, including the U.S., were willing to sell submarines to us, so we decided to build our own. And in the process of building the submarine, Taiwan received a lot of international support, Lo added. Another view of the Hai Kun before President Tsai Ing Wen unveiled it at the CSBC Corp. shipbuilding company in Kaohsiung. Photo by SAM YEH/AFP via Getty Images Its worth noting, of course, that Taiwan was largely forced into building its own submarines, to a significant degree, due to pressure exerted by China. By calling upon a range of economic and diplomatic threats, Beijing was able to prevent the sale of foreign-made submarines to Taiwan. There was, for example, an abortive 2001 deal to acquire eight diesel-electric submarines from the United States, with those hulls to be of a foreign design, built under license. That deal collapsed, as did a plan to transfer to Taiwan former Italian Navy submarines, followed by a renewed proposal to build a new class of diesel-electric submarines in the United States. Ultimately, however, Beijing wasnt able to stop at least some countries from providing support to Taiwan via more covert channels, after the country decided in 2014 to launch a domestic submarine-production program. The process was torturous, Cheng Wen lon, the chairman of CSBC Corp., told reporters , about Taiwans submarine-building effort. Although we have worked quietly the past several years, it doesnt mean the process was very smooth. In the meantime, underwater warfare, and submarines in particular, have become a priority within Taiwans evolving defense strategy, although even Taiwans future force will be tiny compared with the submarine fleet of the Peoples Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). The PLAN submarine fleet numbers at least 60 boats, with production of different designs continuing at a rapid pace. These boats include numerous advanced nuclear-powered attack submarines, nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines , and conventionally powered designs . A Type 039A Yuan class submarine of the PLAN. U.S. Navy Beijings submarines would be expected to play a critical role in any operation waged against Taiwan, which China considers a renegade province that it has vowed to reclaim one day. It has not ruled out a military campaign against the self-governing island as a way of achieving this ambition. Despite Beijing recently talking of its goal of peaceful reunification with Taiwan, officials on the island and in the United States have repeatedly warned that, while not necessarily imminent, a Chinese military operation is certainly a possibility within the next few years. Many have suggested that 2027 which also marks the centenary of the founding of the Peoples Liberation Army is the year China could be capable of invading Taiwan . Chinese President Xi Jinping has also instructed the PLA to be prepared to conduct a successful invasion of Taiwan by no later than that date. Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission CMC, learns about the training of soldiers and officers during a visit to a PLA unit in southwestern Guizhou Province. Xinhua/Li Gang via Getty Images In the meantime, the situation in the Taiwan Strait has become increasingly tense, with repeated large-scale maneuvers conducted here by the Chinese military, involving both aircraft and naval assets. Some of these have also been clearly rehearsals for potential multi-pronged attacks against Taiwan or have otherwise trained for a possible naval blockade of the island . Against this backdrop, Taiwans submarine program has assumed a higher priority, especially under Tsai Ing Wens presidency, which has seen defense spending increase considerably. Speaking last week, the head of Taiwans domestic submarine program, Adm. Huang Shu Kuang told reporters that these boats were part of a strategy aimed at preventing China from encircling the island, which would likely be done either to launch an amphibious invasion or impose a naval blockade. Submarines prowling in and around the Taiwan Strait could pose a threat to a Chinese amphibious invasion fleet, which would likely involve less survivable civilian vessels to bolster troop transport capabilities. Chinese marines race ashore accompanied by amphibious tanks during a beach assault exercise. PLA In the case of a Chinese naval blockade, Taiwanese officials hope that the new submarines could offer a deterrent, if not at least some form of a countermeasure. Describing the submarines as a strategic deterrent, Adm. Huang added that they could be used to help maintain the island's lifeline to the Pacific by keeping ports along Taiwans eastern coast open. Whether that is actually feasible is debatable. Ultimately, using submarines would be one way of buying time during the early part of a Chinese offensive, until the United States and Japan could come to Taiwans aid. As we have reported in the past , this tallies with Taiwans aim for its military to hold out unassisted for at least two weeks against a Chinese offensive. These aspirations, and the Taiwanese submarine-building program in general, have been met with ridicule from Beijing. In an article this week, Chinas state-run Global Times media outlet said that the outlined submarine strategy was proof that Taiwan was daydreaming and that China has already constructed a multidimensional anti-submarine network all around the island. A PLA soldier looks through binoculars during combat exercises and training of the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army in the waters around Taiwan, August 5, 2022. Photo by Lin Jian/Xinhua via Getty Images Despite this bluster, even a small force of advanced submarines could be of great use to Taiwan, especially if used in accordance with its asymmetric warfare strategy, as officials have suggested . As analysts have pointed out , ROCN submarines could be used for guerrilla-style warfare, exploiting their stealth to ambush Chinese vessels or even to launch special operations raids. Other wartime missions would likely include laying mines a key function of the ROCN , targeting Chinas maritime oil supplies, and attacking important military facilities along the Chinese coastline. The submarines could also venture further east into the so-called first island chain, where their shallow-water capabilities could come into play in the numerous straits and channels found there. In particular, the submarines could be used to patrol major chokepoints like the Bashi Channel and the Miyako Strait, through which PLAN vessels could transit if they were to encircle Taiwan. https://www.twitter.com/MoNDefense/status/1707324738056646739?s=20 On the other hand, it needs to be recalled that anti-submarine warfare, once seen as something of a weak point in the Chinese military, has also been subject to intense investment and development in recent years. The PLAN Naval Aviation branch, for instance, appears to be being tailored to become primarily an anti-submarine warfare and intelligence-gathering/command-and-control specialist. Should the Hai Kun class prove successful, it will be a major milestone for Taiwan. As well as being a powerful addition to the islands military as it readies itself for a potential future clash with mainland China, it also indicates the great strides that have been made albeit with foreign assistance when it comes to shipbuilding and design, and major military programs in general. Contact the author: thomas@thedrive.com TAIPEI (Reuters) -China's leadership knows that sabre rattling around Taiwan to force an outcome to its liking in elections does not work and Beijing is not likely to try such actions ahead of January's presidential vote, the Taiwanese foreign minister said Thursday. China has never renounced the use of force to bring democratically governed Taiwan under its control, viewing the island as one of its provinces. In 1996, China lobbed missiles into the Taiwan Strait to try to intimidate the island's voters against voting for Lee Teng-hui as president, who Beijing despised for his perceived pro-independence sympathies. That triggered the so-called Third Taiwan Strait Crisis, in which the U.S. Navy carried out a massive show of force in the strait. Lee won the election in a landslide. Taiwan will hold its next presidential and parliamentary election in January, with Vice President William Lai of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party the favourite to be Taiwan's next leader, according to opinion polls. "The historical lesson is that the more China adopts a forceful way of intervening in our election, it's going to backfire, and I think the Chinese leaders know that very well," Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu told a news conference in Taipei. "So it's not likely for them to do anything major to threaten Taiwan or anything so visible that the Taiwanese people understand that they are trying to intervene in our election," he added. China's Taiwan Affairs Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. It has frequently lambasted Lai for comments supporting Taiwan's independence. Lai has said he does not seek to change the status quo, and has repeatedly offered talks with Beijing. China has over the past three years stepped up military activities around Taiwan, including holding war games, and over the past month has staged drills that Beijing said were aimed at combating the "arrogance" of separatist forces. Wu said China was preparing for a possible attack against Taiwan, including how the People's Liberation Army would deal with U.S. intervention. "So the scale has been increasing," he said, adding that others in the region, including Japan, Australia and the United States have also been keeping a close eye on what China is doing. Taiwan's defence ministry last week took the unusual step of announcing it was monitoring drills taking place in China's Fujian province, across the strait from the island. The ministry normally only comments on Chinese air and sea activity. Speaking in Beijing on Thursday at a regular news conference, Wu Qian, spokesman for China's defence ministry, said Taiwan was trying to show how accurate its information was. "Whether it is or not, let's wait and see," he said, without elaborating. (Reporting by Ben Blanchard. Editing by Gerry Doyle) Taiwan unveiled its first-ever domestically built submarine on Thursday, an accomplishment the island democracys leader hailed as a significant milestone as Taipei works to boost its military deterrence in the face of a growing threat from Beijing. President Tsai Ing-wen presided over a ceremony at the submarines shipyard in southern Kaohsiung city where the diesel-electric vessel was officially named Narwhal in English and Hai Kun in Mandarin which can be loosely translated as sea monster. The submarine is an important realization of our concrete commitment in defending our country, Tsai said. It is also important equipment for our naval forces in developing asymmetric warfare strategies. In the past, many people thought building an indigenous submarine would be an impossible task. But we have made it, she added. The ceremony was a significant personal moment for Tsai, who launched a flagship defense policy to build the first domestic submarine shortly after taking office in 2016. Taiwan's president gives a speech at the launch ceremony of Taiwan's first domestically built submarine, in Kaohsiung on September 28. - Eric Cheung/CNN Taiwanese defense chiefs hope the submarines would help to make it far harder for a potential invasion by China, which claims the island as its territory and has ramped up its saber-rattling in recent years. Journalists were given a tour inside the submarines shipyard but were not allowed to take close-up photos for security reasons. Details about the ships size or capability were also not disclosed during the ceremony, which was also attended by Sandra Oudkirk, Washingtons de facto ambassador to Taiwan, as well as the representatives from the Japanese and South Korean missions in Taipei. Tsai said the indigenous submarine project was a top priority of her administration. With the addition of Narwhal, Taiwan will have a total of three submarines by 2025 it already has two Dutch-made submarines that were first commissioned in the 1980s. Taiwan previously has said it plans to build a total of eight indigenous submarines. Asked about the new submarine at a monthly press briefing on Thursday, Chinas Defense Ministry likened the vessel to a mantis trying to stop a chariot, invoking a common Chinese idiom. Defending the first island chain In an internal briefing attended by CNN last week, Admiral Huang Shu-kuang, an adviser of Taiwans National Security Council and a leader of the indigenous submarine project, said the new fleet will play a key role in preventing Beijing from conducting a naval blockade of the island. While the Taiwan Strait might be too shallow for submarines to operate in, the vessels could be most useful when deployed to target Chinese warships in the Bashi channel which separates Taiwan from the Philippines and the waters between Taiwan and Japans westernmost islands, he said. Because Chinas access to the Pacific Ocean is limited by the first island chain which includes Japan, Taiwan and the Philippines its naval forces would need to pass through these two strategic points to gain access to the wider ocean. Dozens of naval officers at the submarine's shipyard welcome President Tsai Ing-wen to the launch ceremony in Kaohsiung on September 28. - Eric Cheung/CNN Therefore, Huang said, Taiwan can help limit Chinas projection of military power by deploying its submarines there. In the event of a military conflict, the Chinese navy will definitely want to enter the area to the east of Taiwan so as to surround us and limit the US ability to intervene, Huang told the briefing. Because submarines can operate deep under water and are hard to detect, they have a better chance of getting close to (Chinese) aircraft carriers and launching attacks. That assessment was shared by Collin Koh, senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, who said the new submarine fleet would help Taiwan build a more credible second-strike capability. China has a lot of focus on countering what they see as potential US military intervention, and it has planned for a major naval engagement with the US outside the first island chain, around the Philippine Sea, he said. If the Taiwanese want to contribute to that, then one way to do that is to bottle up the PLA Navy within the first island chain, dont allow it come out and help the US military intervention become successful, he added. Admiral Huang also said the submarines are designed with the capability of carrying US-made MK-48 torpedoes, which can be used to target surface ships. A challenging journey Taiwan has increasingly emphasized a policy of defense self-sufficiency, which has seen the island ramp up its domestic weapons development to modernize its armed forces and be less reliant on overseas procurement. Tsai took office at a time when Taiwan had been struggling to persuade the United States and European nations to sell the island big ticket military hardware items. That has become less of an issue in recent years as Beijing ramps up diplomatic, economic and military pressure on Taipei and the United States in particular has signed off on a slew of large military sales under President Joe Biden and his predecessor Donald Trump. But Taiwans indigenous military procurement program remains a lynchpin of its defense strategy, particularly when it comes to systems like anti-ship missiles that could defend against a potential invasion. A video showing the submarine's construction and testing is shown during the launch ceremony in Kaohsiung on September 28. - Eric Cheung/CNN In March, CNN visited a Taiwanese state-owned military weapons developer, as it unveiled five new types of indigenous military drones that are capable of surveillance and launching aerial attacks. Taiwans success in building its first submarine could help alleviate some concerns over its military preparedness as Beijing increasingly asserts its territorial claims over the island democracy of 23.5 million. Chinas ruling Communist Party views Taiwan as part of its territory, despite having never controlled it. Beijing has long vowed that the island must be unified with the Chinese mainland, by force if necessary, while the Taiwanese authorities strongly reject Chinas territorial claims over it. Beijing has ramped pressure on Taiwan under Xi Jinping, Chinas most assertive leader in a generation. In recent years Chinese fighter jets, bombers and surveillance aircraft have conducted an ever growing number of sorties around the island, while Chinese warships have crossed the unofficial Median Line that runs down the Taiwan Strait with growing frequency. Last summer Chinas military launched massive drills to protest a visit to Taiwan by then House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Taiwan has unveiled its first domestically built submarine, 'Narwhal,' at a shipyard in Kaohsiung. - Eric Cheung/CNN At the internal briefing, Admiral Huang said Taiwan first attempted to build a new submarine fleet when former president Lee Teng-hui founded a task force in 1995, but faced difficulties as the US was reluctant to sell its submarines to the island. The project formally began in 2016, after Tsai took office. He said the process of building Taiwans first submarine had been very challenging due to budget limitations, delays resulting from a global chip shortage, and concerns over possible Chinese espionage. The project involved a total of 1,003 Taiwanese personnel, most of which were involved in designing the submarines blueprint, Huang said. The personnel were all subject to monitoring by a military security division to ensure no secrets were leaked. Huang said he was given a budget of $1.54 billion (NT$49.36 billion) to build the first ship. About 60% of the budget was spent on acquiring overseas materials and military equipment, but he believed that percentage would decrease in the future as Taiwans domestic submarine shipbuilding industry becomes more mature. He declined to disclose which countries approved export permits for Taiwan but said he had reached out to senior military leaders in the US Pacific Fleet, Japan, South Korea and India. After the submarine was unveiled, it will enter sea trials next month before entering service next year. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com [Source] Taiwan unveiled its first domestically built submarine as a significant achievement in bolstering its military capabilities amid growing tensions with Beijing. Narwhal: The diesel-electric submarine, named "Narwhal" in English and "Hai Kun" in Mandarin, marked a personal milestone for President Tsai Ing-wen, who initiated the submarine project shortly after taking office in 2016. Importance of the submarine: At the Kaohsiung ceremony on Thursday, Tsai emphasized the importance of the submarine, costing $1.5 billion, in defending Taiwan and developing asymmetric warfare strategies as China claims Taiwan as its territory. The new submarine will reportedly undergo sea trials next month before being deployed with the Taiwanese navy in 2024. The submarine is an important realization of our concrete commitment in defending our country, Tsai said, according to CNN. It is also important equipment for our naval forces in developing asymmetric warfare strategies. In the past, many people thought building an indigenous submarine would be an impossible task. But we have made it. More from NextShark: Teacher in India apologizes after video of him threatening to beat student over her BTS fandom goes viral A fruit of our self-reliant defense policy and future underwater capacity that guards our waters, Taiwan's first indigenous defense #submarine has been named 'Narwhal' and was christened by President Tsai @iingwen this morning. pic.twitter.com/Qoop7XBGVC Ministry of National Defense, R.O.C. (@MoNDefense) September 28, 2023 More from NextShark: Super Mario Bros. Movie breaks 2023 box office with $377 million global debut Taiwans plans: Although specific details about the submarine's size and capabilities were not disclosed during the ceremony, Taiwan plans to have a total of three submarines by 2025 in addition to the two Dutch-made submarines it already possesses. The self-governed islands goal is to ultimately build eight submarines, with plans to deploy at least two domestically developed submarines by 2027. About the submarines: Along with support from the U.S., the Narwhal submarine will be equipped with U.S.-made Mark 48 heavyweight torpedoes and a combat system manufactured by Lockheed Martin. The submarines are expected to play a strategic role in preventing potential naval blockades by China, particularly in key areas like the Bashi channel and the waters between Taiwan and Japans westernmost islands. These locations could limit China's naval access to the Pacific Ocean. More from NextShark: Listeria Outbreak Linked to Enoki Mushrooms Leaves 4 Dead, 30 Hospitalized in the U.S. Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark! Price of plane tickets to China have gone up as much as 1,000% since pre-pandemic, report reveals Taiwan launched its first domestically produced submarine into the ocean Thursday, a landmark achievement for the nations shipbuilding industry as it ramps up preparedness against a conflict versus China. The reduced-size submarine will begin tests this week. In the past, a domestic-made submarine was considered impossible, but today a submarine designed and built by our countrymen is in front of you, President Tsai Ing-wen said at the launch ceremony, reported by The Associated Press. Building a submarine is the concrete realization of our resolution to protect our country, she said. Submarines are an important piece of equipment for the Taiwan navy to develop asymmetric combat power in terms of strategy and tactics. The submarine project was urged on the U.S., which has pushed Taiwan to advance its domestic military preparedness while also increasing its military support. If tests are successful, a second submarine will be built and deployed by 2027, according to Taiwanese state media. Tensions between China and Taiwan and have ratcheted up in recent years as relations between Beijing and the U.S. have faltered. China has launched a number of close-call aircraft and naval raids just off Taiwans coast in recent months, threatening the island nation. Chinas Defense Ministry said Thursday that the submarines construction was Taiwan heading down the path of its own destruction. No matter how many weapons the Democratic Progressive Party buys, it will not obstruct the greater trend of reunification with the motherland, said Col. Wu Qian, a spokesperson in Chinas Ministry of National Defense, according to AP. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. House Republicans kicked off their first impeachment inquiry hearing Thursday laying out the allegations they will pursue against President Joe Biden , though their expert witnesses acknowledged Republicans dont yet have the evidence to prove the accusation theyre leveling. Thursdays hearing in the House Oversight Committee didnt include witnesses who could speak directly to Hunter Biden s foreign business dealing at the center of the inquiry, but the hearing offered Republicans the chance to show some of the evidence theyve uncovered to date. None of that evidence has shown Joe Biden received any financial benefit from his sons business dealings, but Republicans said at Thursdays hearing what theyve found so far has given them the justification to launch their impeachment inquiry. Democrats responded by accusing Republicans of doing Donald Trumps bidding and raising his and his familys various foreign dealings themselves, as well as Trumps attempts to get Ukraine to investigate in 2019 the same allegations now being raised in the impeachment inquiry. Heres takeaways from Thursdays first impeachment inquiry hearing: Rep.Jamie Raskin and Oversight Chairman James Comer speak on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, on Thursday. - Jonathan Ernst/Reuters GOP witnesses say not enough evidence yet to impeach Biden While Republicans leveled accusations of corruption against Joe Biden over his sons business dealings, the GOP expert witnesses who testified Thursday were not ready to go that far. Forensic accountant Bruce Dubinsky, one of the GOP witnesses, undercut Republicans main narrative by saying there wasnt enough evidence yet for him to conclude that there was corruption by the Bidens. I am not here today to even suggest that there was corruption, fraud or wrongdoing, Dubinsky said. More information needs to be gathered before I can make such an assessment. He said there was a smokescreen surrounding Hunter Bidens finances, including complex overseas shell companies, which he said raise questions for a fraud expert about possible illicit activities. Conservative law professor Jonathan Turley also said that the House does not yet have evidence to support articles of impeachment against Joe Biden, but argued that House Republicans were justified in opening an impeachment inquiry. I want to emphasize what it is that were here today for. This is a question of an impeachment inquiry. It is not a vote on articles of impeachment, Turley said. In fact, I do not believe that the current evidence would support articles of impeachment. That is something that an inquiry has to establish. But I also do believe that the House has passed the threshold for an impeachment inquiry into the conduct of President Biden. Turley said that Bidens false statements about his knowledge of Hunter Bidens business endeavors, as well as the unproven allegations that Biden may have benefited from his sons business deals, were reason for the House to move forward with the impeachment inquiry. (CNN has previously reported that Joe Bidens unequivocal denials of any business-related contact with his son have been undercut over time, including by evidence uncovered by House Republicans.) Turley, a George Washington University Law School professor, has repeatedly backed up Republican arguments on key legal matters in recent years, including his opposition to Trumps first and second impeachments. Rep. Ro Khanna, a California Democrat, pushed Turley further on his comments, asking whether he would vote no today on impeachment. On this evidence, certainly, Turley said. At the moment, these are allegations. There is some credible evidence there that is the basis of the allegations. Witnesses are sworn in before the House Oversight Committee on September 28, 2023, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. - Jacquelyn Martin/AP GOP maps out questions they want to answer House Republicans opened their first impeachment hearing Thursday with a series of lofty claims against the president, as they try to connect him to his sons corrupt business dealings overseas. House Oversight Chairman Rep. James Comer claimed the GOP probes have uncovered a mountain of evidence revealing how Joe Biden abused his public office for his familys financial gain, even though he hasnt put forward any concrete evidence backing up that massive allegation. Two other Republican committee chairs further pressed their case, including by citing some of the newly released Internal Revenue Service documents, which two IRS whistleblowers claim show how the Justice Department intervened in the Hunter Biden criminal probe to protect the Biden family. However, many of their examples of alleged wrongdoing occurred during the Trump administration before Joe Biden took office. Ahead of the hearing, the Republican chairs released a formal framework laying out the scope of their probe, saying it will span the time of Joe Bidens Vice Presidency to the present, including his time out of office. The document outlines specific lines of inquiry, including whether Biden engaged in corruption, bribery, and influence peddling none of which Republicans have proved yet. The memo included four questions the Republicans are seeking to answer related to whether Biden took any action related to payments his family received or if the president obstructed the investigations into Hunter Biden. House Oversight Committee ranking Democratic member Rep. Jamie Raskin speaks on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, on September 28, 2023. - Jim Bourg/Reuters New subpoenas issued for bank records House Republicans issued three subpoenas Thursday evening for the personal and business records of the presidents son Hunter Biden and brother James Biden a move Comer had forecast at the close of the hearing. Comer and House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan sent the subpoenas to banks for Hunter and James Bidens records, a source familiar with the matter told CNN. The subpoenas, which redact the recipients, demand the banks turn over the presidents son and brothers personal and business records from January 1, 2014, to present by October 12. The subpoenaed bank records will help the Committees determine whether Joe Biden abused his office by selling access and/or by receiving payments or other benefits in exchange for official acts, which is a critical aspect of the Committees impeachment inquiry, Comer and Jordan wrote. The move does not come as a surprise, as Comer has been signaling his intention to issue the subpoenas for the personal bank records. They show where Republicans will head next in their investigation as they continue to seek evidence to substantiate their unproven allegations about the president. Witness testimony frustrates some Republicans Some inside the GOP expressed frustration to CNN in real time with how the House GOPs first impeachment inquiry hearing was playing out, as the Republican witnesses directly undercut the GOPs own narrative and admitted there is no evidence that Biden has committed impeachable offenses. You want witnesses that make your case. Picking witnesses that refute House Republicans arguments for impeachment is mind blowing, one senior GOP aide told CNN. This is an unmitigated disaster. One GOP lawmaker also expressed some disappointment with their performance thus far, telling CNN: I wish we had more outbursts. The bar for Thursdays hearing was set low: Republicans admitted they would not reveal any new evidence, but were hoping to at least make the public case for why their impeachment inquiry is warranted, especially as some of their own members remain skeptical of the push. But some Republicans are not even paying attention, as Congress is on the brink of a shutdown a point Democrats hammered during the hearing. I havent watched or listened to a moment of it, said another GOP lawmaker. Theres a shutdown looming. Rep Jim Jordan delivers remarks during the House Oversight Committee hearing on Capitol Hill on September 28, 2023 in Washington, DC. - Drew Angerer/Getty Images Democrats attack inquiry for lacking evidence on the president Democrats repeatedly pointed out that the Republican allegations about foreign payments were tied to money that went mostly Hunter Biden but not the to the president. The majority sits completely empty handed with no evidence of any presidential wrongdoing, no smoking gun, no gun, no smoke, said Rep. Jamie Raskin, the top Democrat on the Oversight committee. Raskins staff brought in the 12,000 pages of bank records the committee has received so far, as Raskin said, not a single page shows a dime going to President Joe Biden. Raskin also had a laptop open displaying a countdown clock for when the government shuts down in a little more than two days another point Democrats used to bash Republicans for focusing on impeachment and failing to pass bills to fund the government. The Democrats passed the laptop around to each lawmaker as they had their five minutes to question the witnesses. Their arguments also previewed how Democrats intend to play defense for the White House as Republicans move forward on their impeachment inquiry. The Democrats needled Republicans for not holding a vote on an impeachment inquiry one Democrat asked Turley whether he would recommend a vote, which Turley said he would. Rep. Jamie Raskin speaks on the Democratic side of the aisle, as the House Oversight Committee begins an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden, Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, on Capitol Hill in Washington. - Jacquelyn Martin/AP Democrats push for Rudy to testify House Democrats 2019 impeachment of Trump was sparked by Trumps attempts to push Ukraine to investigate allegations involving Biden and his sons position on the board of a Ukrainian energy company some of the same allegations now being probed by the House GOP. That led Democrats Thursday to push for testimony from Rudy Giuliani, who as Trumps personal lawyer sought to dig up dirt on Biden in Ukraine in 2019. Twice, the Democrats forced the Oversight Committee to vote on Democratic motions to subpoena Giuliani, votes that served as stunts to try to hammer home their argument that Giuliani tried and failed to corroborate the same allegations at the heart of the Biden impeachment inquiry. I ask the question: Where in the world is Rudy Giuliani? said Rep. Kweisi Mfume of Maryland, one of the Democrats who forced the procedural vote. Thats how we got here, ladies and gentlemen. And this committee is afraid to bring him before us and put him on the record. Shame! And the question was raised. What does this have to do with it? It has everything to do with it. In addition to Giuliani, Raskin sought testimony from Lev Parnas, an associate of Giulianis who was indicted in 2019. Parnas subsequently cooperated with the Democratic impeachment inquiry, including providing a statement from a top official at Burisma Holdings, the Ukrainian energy company, stating, No one from Burisma had any contacts with VP Biden or people working for him. Several Democrats also raised Jared Kushner, Trumps son-in-law who worked in the White House, receiving $2 billion from Saudi Arabia through a company he formed after leaving the White House. The Democrats charged that Kushners actions were far worse than Hunter Bidens, because Kushner worked in government, while Bidens son did not. This story has been updated with additional details. CNNs Melanie Zanona and Avery Lotz contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The Washington officials believe that the negotiations on arms supply to Russia, which began during North Korean leader Kimg Jon Uns visit to Russia, are progressing. Source: Ukrinform, citing Matthew Miller, spokesman for the US Department of State, during a press conference Details: Miller stressed that the talks could concern both North Korea potentially supplying weapons to Russia, and Russia giving [nuclear] technology to North Korea. He added that this would undermine the global nuclear nonproliferation regime and violate the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, which Russia itself voted for. Quote from Miller: "We have spoken on this a number of times and warned that an arms discussion between Russia and the DPRK almost certainly continued during Kim Jong Uns trip to Russia and we believe that they continue in the aftermath of that trip and converging the military relationship between Russia and the DPRK. [...] And so we would urge the DPRK to abide by what it has said publicly and refrain from supplying arms to Russia." Background: The G7n countries fear that Russia is negotiating with North Korea for obtaining weapons in exchange for ballistic missiles technology. A top US military official has previously said that the DPRKs potential assistance to Russia is unlikely to be of great importance. The US threatened to aggressively enforce existing sanctions against North Korea and impose new ones if it provides weapons to Russia for its war 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! Tanks and troops out in the open can now be spotted in five minutes, a Ukrainian official says. Vadym Skibitsky told The Wall Street Journal they could be hit in a further three minutes. "The survivability on the move is no more than 10 minutes," he said. The sheer number of drones operating in Ukraine, as well as battle-management systems that provide real-time imaging and locations, mean that troops and tanks out in the open have just minutes before they're targeted, a top Ukrainian military official says. "Today, a column of tanks or a column of advancing troops can be discovered in three to five minutes and hit in another three minutes," Maj. Gen. Vadym Skibitsky, the deputy commander of Ukraine's HUR military-intelligence service, told The Wall Street Journal. "The survivability on the move is no more than 10 minutes," he added. Skibitsky also told the newspaper that "surprises have become very difficult to achieve." Russia and Ukraine are both deploying thousands of drones on the battlefield and are using cheap drones to target each other's forces. This, in turn, is bringing into question some fundamentals of American military doctrine. "The days of massed armored assaults, taking many kilometers of ground at a time, like we did in 2003 in Iraq that stuff is gone because the drones have become so effective now," Bradley Crawford, a retired US Army sergeant who's an Iraq war veteran, told the newspaper. Ukraine has been increasingly relying on cheap, first-person-view drones, or FPVs, to take out Russian military hardware. These drones tend to cost about $400 to $500, which is a lot less than a regular 155mm artillery shell, which can cost up to $3,000, or a T-72 tank, which costs about $1,2 million. Last week, Ukraine's Minister of Digital Transformation, Mykhailo Fedorov, said unmanned Ukrainian aerial vehicles had struck a record 205 pieces of Russian military hardware in Ukraine. These included 64 cannons, 27 tanks, and 55 trucks, he said. While the exact number of drones deployed remains unclear, the Royal United Services Institute estimated earlier this year that Ukraine was losing about 10,000 drones a month, a sign of their widespread use. Russia is meanwhile working to make a deadlier, more advanced version of Iran's Shahed-136 attack drone, The Washington Post reported based on leaked documents. Read the original article on Business Insider Its no news flash that local journalism is on the ropes. Newspapers are shrinking and audiences are seeking information elsewhere, typically in video form. So it was more than a little attention-getting when Gannett, parent of USA Today, recently announced it was hiring reporters to cover pop icons Taylor Swift and Beyonce on a full-time basis. The publisher said it received close to 1,000 applications for the gigs, which, if nothing else, shows how desperate some journalists are for steady work. Gannett says covering Tay-Tay and Queen Bey on a regular basis may sound like a gimmick, but its actually representative of the companys efforts to rethink its journalistic mission. This is how we save local journalism, Gannetts chief content officer, Kristin Roberts, told the Wall Street Journal. This is what we need to do. It really isnt. While hitching your wagon to two of the planets biggest stars may get people buzzing, it has little if nothing to do with salvaging local journalism, which has been defenestrated by staff cuts, industry consolidation and dwindling audiences. Moreover, Gannett gets no milk and cookies for being an industry savior. Last year alone, the company laid off about 600 reporters. While newspapers are gradually fading from relevance, their mission is as vitally important as ever. We seem to be on a trajectory where big national stories will be covered by only a handful of news entities. Once all papers are digital-only, that means theyll be competing for subscribers with the New York Times and Wall Street Journal. Good luck with that. Local news, meanwhile, will keep falling through the cracks. How do we remedy that? We give people what they want. When I worked for the Los Angeles Times, and before that the San Francisco Chronicle, we heard repeatedly from our marketing people that readers were desperate to see more community news, more school sports, more local activities. But those things are labor-intensive and dont generate much in the way of ad revenue. Want money? Start a food section. Advertisers love those. My modest proposal is for wealthy benefactors in various communities to create nonprofit organizations that can run websites focusing on the meat-and-potatoes local coverage that people desire. Those websites probably wont make money. More than likely, theyll be money losers. But theyll perform the essential service of letting people know what the local city council or school board is up to, and how the local high school did on the field, and what cultural events might be happening. Ideally, the sites can generate revenue by partnering with local groups (and hopefully merchants) seeking connections with local residents. This isnt a radical idea. Its how small local papers have operated for decades. When I got my start in journalism, it was with a tiny weekly paper in Northern California. There were two editors and me. I covered the local city council and school board, and wrote features about local doings. Want to save local journalism? Thats how. Leave Taylor Swift to TMZ. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Teacher Who Inspired Abbott Elementary Surprised With Her Own Street By Philadelphia School District | Gilbert Carrasquillo via Getty Images The teacher who inspired Quinta Brunsons award-winning show Abbott Elementary, Joyce Abbott, was celebrated by the School District of Philadelphia Tuesday with a ceremony at Abbotts alma mater, Overbrook High School, and a proclamation that Sept. 26 would be Joyce Abbott Day. When I went into this work, I did this work not for the recognition but to truly make a difference in the life of a child, Abbott told WPVI, Good Morning America reported. During the ceremony, Mallory Fix-Lopez, the vice president of Philadelphias Board of Education, highlighted Abbotts impact on her students and the community. While the show is fictional, the impact you have had on Philadelphia is very real, Fix-Lopez said. School District of Philadelphia Superintendent Tony Watlington added she is an exemplary educator. I think you just represent the very best of public education in this country outstanding, he said. Sen. Vincent Hughes presented Abbot, who retired in 2022 after 27 years of teaching, with a Pennsylvania Senate citation. Philadelphia Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr. declared that 59th Street, outside of Overbrook High School, will be renamed Joyce Abbott Way. It means just so much. Who wouldve ever thought? Its something that I never imagined a street named after me, Abbott said after receiving the honor. Abbott also shared some advice for teachers. Just know that every day that youre going in, even though every day may not be great, you are making a difference, she said. Philadelphia Federation of Teachers President Jerry Jordan said thanks to Abbott, stereotypes surrounding public education, urban schools and city children in Philadelphia are starting to become a thing of the past. Youre changing the conversation, he told Abbott, smiling. As Blavity reported, Brunson gushed about Abbott while appearing on Jimmy Kimmel Live! in February 2022. And when the award-winning series surprised its showrunner with the former teacher, her emotional response proved how much Abbott means to her. Oh my God, Im so proud of you, Abbott said of Brunson, adding she watched her grow out of her shell, which prompted Brunson to grab a nearby tissue. The Social Security Administration (SSA) paid out more than $20 billion to people who shouldnt have received money. Now the agency wants its money back. The I-Team has been working for more than two years to figure out just how many people have received letters asking to repay money they dont have, but the federal government wont release the number. Still, we continue to hear from people across the Miami Valley whove been stuck with hefty bills. >> PREVIOUS COVERAGE: I-TEAM: Social Security should help people; Families stuck paying hefty SSA overpayment bills Angela Worley, of Dayton, has a document trail laid out on her dining room table. Its all part of the case for her mothers Social Security overpayment notice. The government sent Phyllis Worley a letter in the mail saying theyd overpaid her nearly $7,000 and demanded it back. She was extremely anxious. Its, you know, its devastating, Worley recalled. Worley was one of the first people to reach out to the I-Team after our original report where we talked to people across the country dealing with the overpayment outrage. It made me happy to know that, not that this is happening, but that people like you are able to investigate that and hold the people that our tax money goes to accountable, she told the I-Teams lead investigative reporter John Bedell. We have to depend on our Social Security and those people to do their job right and fairly and keep things from getting this messed up, Tammy Eichler told the I-Team. The 70-year-old retiree described sleepless nights after receiving an overpayment notice from SSA demanding she repay $5,575 in retirement benefits. She still doesnt understand what went wrong. Ive been trying to call Social Security and on the phone for like an hour, just on hold every time, Eicher said. She added shes also taken trips to the SSA district office in Piqua to try and get her case resolved. >>RELATED: I want to be able to save money: SSI recipient from Ohio urges Congress to raise asset limits At one point, she said an SSA employee told her shed never seen an account as messed up as hers was and said it looked as though the agency had been repeatedly recalculating her benefit amount. Eichler filed an appeal and waited. At 60 days, I still didnt hear. So, I called Social Security again. And they said it could take six months to a year because of so many people being involved in this mess. And I said what are people supposed to do in the meantime, Eichler recalled. They need to make it right by all these people thats been affected by this. Eichler is one of two dozen people who contacted the I-Team after our original report with out sister stations and KFF Health News. Weve since heard from nearly 200 people across the country dealing with the overpayment outrage. Now, the outrage has gotten the attention of Congress, which wants to put Social Security Officials under oath to see just how many people have been impacted by this. Miami Valley Congressman Mike Carey (R-Ohio) sits on the House Subcommittee on Social Security. He told the I-Team that every member of Congress has gotten calls from constituents dealing with overpayments. He called it a huge problem and is demanding answers. I think we need to have a hearing. We need to come to grips with where we are right now, find out what the problems are, and fix the problems, Carey said. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) chairs the Senate Subcommittee on Social Security. He told the I-Team that there are several ways to hold their feet to the fire and publicly pressure the SSA to do the right thing. >> PREVIOUS COVERAGE: I-TEAM: Miami Valley families continue to be stuck paying hefty SSA overpayment bills Weve let the federal agency know we expect them to stop and not penalize those people, Brown. Our I-Team investigation found SSA audits show Americans repay between $4 and $5 billion in overpayments each year, but the grand total of overpayments the agency still has not recovered is more than $21 billion. Even when its the SSAs own mistake, it still demands people pay the money back. Its a moral imperative that we can fix the situation and its on Congress right now to do that, Jessica LaPointe, a longtime Social Security worker who leads the employee union, said. LaPointe previously told the I-Team that critically low staffing levels mean it could be years before workers reassess peoples cases and catch overpayments. It could take even longer to send out the overpayment letters. The I-Team spoke to attorney Michael Rake who said his Dayton law firm specializes in Social Security and Veterans Disability Law. He said hes seeing more and more overpayment cases and theyre difficult to fight. Particularly when the case is very, very old and the mistake happened many, many years ago, its oftentimes difficult to entangle what exactly happened and what went wrong in order to fix it, Rake said. >> Miami Valley Murder Mysteries: What Happened to Sharon Pretorius? He told Bedell that there should be accountability for staffers who make mistakes and policy changes from Congress to prevent them. Correcting the mistake ought to be more than just chasing down the individual who relied on your mistake to their detriment, Rake said. Worley and Eichler both agree that something needs to be done. I think that its shameful. I really, really think that its shameful, Worley said. The SSA declined our request for an on-camera interview but in a statement said they continually strive to improve stewardship of our programs and reduce improper payments. While staffing losses and resource constraints have challenged our service delivery, our payment accuracy rates remain very high. Across the world, Black women continue to be under attack. Whether its for simply doing their job or rejecting another man, they face so much danger for simply living their lives and minding their business. On Wednesday, 15-year-old Elianne Andam and her friend were headed to school in Croydon, South London. They were waiting for the bus during the morning rush hour in the city. Read more More from The Guardian: A spokesperson for Eliannes family said: Our hearts are broken by the senseless death of our daughter. Elianne was the light of our lives. She was bright and funny, with many friends who all adored her. She was only 15 and had her whole life ahead of her, with hopes and dreams for the future. All those dreams have now been shattered. Our lives have fallen apart, along with that of our wider family. We ask the media to please respect our privacy as we try to grieve the short life of our beautiful child. The Mayor of London also shared his thoughts on the death of the young Black girl: I am absolutely heartbroken by the death of a 15-year-old girl in Croydon this morning. My thoughts and prayers are with this young girls family and friends and the whole community, at this unimaginably awful time. My full statement: pic.twitter.com/IM0vDels87 Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan (@MayorofLondon) September 27, 2023 Its extremely unfortunate and disheartening that Black women everywhere cannot go through their day-to-day lives without the threat of being attacked by a man who is insecure or selfish. 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 teenager has stabbed three teachers and at least one pupil in a high school in southern Spain, police have said. One of the teachers was stabbed in the eye during the attack in Jerez de la Frontera, southern Spain, on Thursday morning, according to local reports. The other three victims suffered minor wounds, a source from Andalusias health services said. Police and emergency services were called to the stabbing at the Elena Garcia Armada Institute at around 8.25am. A teenager allegedly took a knife from his rucksack shortly after arriving before attacking classmates, according to news outlet ABC Sevilla. When a teacher intervened, she was stabbed in the eye, according to the reports, which add that another teacher who came to her aid was also injured. A 14-year-old has been arrested over the stabbing and taken into police custody. Police spokesman Adrian Dominguez told reporters: Police located the suspect on the third floor. He had in his possession the two knives used to attack three teachers and two students. Speaking to Spanish news agency EFE, a pupil said: He started to attack everyone, even the teacher. He almost caught my friend and hit another friend in the forearm. And my physics and chemistry teacher in the head. A pupils mother told Canal SUR television channel that the attacker had wielded two large knives from his backpack and attacked fellow pupils and teachers, telling them he would kill them. #Ahora Asi esta la situacion ahora en la puerta del IES Elena Garcia Armada donde esta manana ha ocurrido un suceso donde un menor ha apunalado a profesores y alumnos. @OndaCero_es @MediodiaOC https://t.co/sxgzR5B5QI pic.twitter.com/q4XjO1cqPV Onda Cero Cadiz-Rota (@ondacerocadiz) September 28, 2023 The first teacher attacked is in a serious condition and was taken to Jerez de la Frontera University Hospital where they are expected to undergo surgery. The rest of those injured have also gone to the same hospital for treatment. The secondary school was immediately evacuated following the incident. Pictures from outside the school show parents and students waiting for news from inside the campus. Jerez de la Frontera mayor Maria Jose Garcia Pelayo said: It was devastating and dramatic because all the parents were on the outside of the school wishing they could hug their children. Kids 11 to 17 love certain apps, a new study says: They spend nearly two hours a day on TikTok. But Facebook has fallen out of favor with the younger set, with only a minute of screen time daily. More than half of the young people in the study got more than 200 notifications in one day. Younger phone users are glued to TikTok for around two hours every day, according to a new study that tracked the screen time of kids from ages 11 to 17. The median time each day spent on TikTok by the teens who use the app? An hour and 52 minutes. That compares to the one minute they spent on Facebook, 10 minutes on Snapchat, and 16 minutes on Instagram. The only app that even comes close to the screen time gobbled up by TikTok was YouTube, clocking in at 40 minutes, according to the new study by Common Sense Media conducted with the University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children's Hospital. And sleep and school may be getting pushed to the wayside in the era of the smartphone at least for some of the young users. Teens are being bombarded with phone notifications. At least 50% in the study got 237 notifications in one day and got up to 5,000 in a single day, according to the Common Sense Media's research. Common Sense Media is a nonprofit organization that focuses on media literacy and safety for children. This week, it released a study that delved into how young people are using their smartphones. The study came from 203 smartphones of kids age 11 to 17. They'd agreed to have software installed that would track how they used their devices and for how long. (In some cases, teens racked up screen time of more than 16 hours in a day, according to the data the researchers gathered.) Young people are using these apps the most App name Average daily duration Median* Percentage of daily use** Median TikTok 1 hour, 52 minutes 38.4% YouTube 40 minutes 18.2% Instagram 16 minutes 5.9% Snapchat 10 minutes 3.6% Discord 7 minutes 2.5% Roblox 6 minutes 2.6% Chrome 4 minutes 1.5% Netflix 3 minutes 0.8% Spotify 1 minute 0.6% Facebook 1 minute 0.1% Google quick search box 1 minute 0.6% Amazon 1 minute 0.3% Pinterest 1 minute 0.4% Source: Common Sense Media and University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children's Hospital *Median is the value that 50% of the users are under and 50% are over. **Percentage of daily use is calculated among those who use the app and as a percentage of all their smartphone use in a day. One key note: The study was comprised of only Android users because Apple doesn't share this type of data on iPhone users with researchers. So, what are teens doing on their phones exactly? As expected, social media use took up the most time. Half of the teens surveyed spent over 153 minutes a day on social media. TikTok was the most used platform among this demographic. YouTube and gaming were also popular time killers. According to Common Sense Media, kids may prefer TikTok over text-based apps like X, formerly Twitter, because users don't need to read or type. They can just passively scroll and have the algorithm cater to them. (X's screen time isn't calculated in the study.) The average teen used their phone over four hours a day, Common Sense Media found, describing smartphones as a "constant companion," that both "provides background buzz," and "encourages constant pickups." And 9% of the teens surveyed had screen times of more than 10 hours. But screen time might not always equate to having eyes glued to the screen. Some teens said they like to use their phones as background noise, according to the study. They would play videos, music, or podcasts in the background while doing other tasks like homework or chores. Still, 59% of the adolescents surveyed had phone activity between the hours of 12 a.m. and 5 a.m., whether that be playing nature noises to sleep or scrolling through TikTok at 3 in the morning. Read the original article on Business Insider The Tempe Police Department is reviewing every serious investigation from the past three years and paying a neighboring city to collect crime scene evidence until it can improve and standardize its collection of forensic evidence. Tempe police Chief Kenneth McCoy said the review of the forensics unit was prompted when a new, experienced forensic supervisor took over in January and identified what he called "a need for improvement." She determined that the unit inconsistently gathered evidence and needed its standards "elevated," McCoy said. In July, Tempe halted its team of six crime scene investigators from collecting evidence in serious cases, including murders and rapes. Technicians collect DNA, fingerprints and other forensic evidence from crime scenes for analysis, which can be critical later in court in convincing juries of a defendant's guilt. It remains unclear how many cases could be affected, and city officials haven't said. But the team's collection of forensics could complicate dozens of serious cases and potentially could put some in jeopardy. How many Tempe criminal cases are affected? Tempe has referred nearly 9,000 cases to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office since January 2020, according to data from the prosecutors' office. According to the County Attorney's Office, between Jan. 1, 2020, and Sept. 25, 2023, Tempe submitted 60 cases with a charge of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, negligent homicide or manslaughter, plus 57 more cases involving sexual assault charges. Tempe officials confirmed that their forensic technicians also respond to aggravated assaults, and, according to the prosecutors' office, referred 1,403 such cases. It's not clear how many of those cases required the forensic unit's work. Yui Inoue was charged in the first-degree murders of her two children at this Tempe apartment complex in May 2021. Her case is one of dozens that Tempe Police's forensic unit is reviewing because a new supervisor found that technicians were inconsistent in collecting evidence. Why Tempe police is retraining its forensic unit The level of certification alone, even though it's not legally required for technicians, could allow defense attorneys to poke holes in the forensic evidence in a case or, if a judge agrees, block juries from seeing it. If a judge rules that the forensics used in some of Tempe's closed cases was not valid or reliable enough to be admitted as evidence, those convictions could be imperiled. "It can go to the qualifications to perform the tasks. It can affect their qualifications as an expert in the field. It can affect the reliability of the scientific results or the jury's willingness to accept the results, Phoenix-based attorney Rhonda Elaine Neff told The Arizona Republic. It can affect whether the state is able to pass the evidentiary standards for admission of the evidence in a case pretrial or at trial." McCoy said Tempe police decided to retrain the forensic unit to establish consistent, higher standards. Department leaders decided the technicians need to be certified as experts at Mesas forensics academy before resuming work on Tempe's most serious crime scenes. City officials did not say what certifications team members have. The Mesa certification typically takes about eight months, but Tempe officials did not clarify if the new training has begun. Meanwhile, Tempe will outsource forensic work on major crime cases to the Mesa Police Department. Its part of an informal agreement that's been in place for about two months. Once the deal is made official, its expected to cost Tempe roughly $170,000. Meanwhile, Tempe is going through three years of closed police cases, looking for any potential pitfalls in how forensic evidence for them was collected. More: The first police officer to ever compete in Miss USA is a Tempe resident Tempe police saw 'a need for improvement' For now, city officials said they were not worried. They would not specify how many of those closed cases were being analyzed as part of the ongoing review, but McCoy said the department so far has "found no cases that have been impacted." McCoy also said he pulled the unit off major crimes not to find fault, but rather "out of an abundance of caution," and to bide time for the unit to get certified and flesh out its operating guidelines. "The unit has done nothing wrong. This was all borne out of us bringing on board a new forensic services supervisor," the chief said. "She identified a need for improvement to get (the unit) at a level to where everyone is operating consistently." Tempe police officers respond to an incident at Arizona Mills mall on Aug. 5, 2023. McCoy said the new supervisor noticed the team's operating procedures, methods of collecting and processing evidence and training were inconsistent. McCoy said each technician went through different courses and on-the-job training through the years. He said he believed they all were qualified to do the job despite their lack of expert certifications. Tempe spokesperson Kris Baxter-Ging wrote in email that "all the team members of the FSU (Forensic Science Unit) have done quality work," regardless of any inconsistencies. Each technician has received on-the-job training and have taken multiple courses on topics that include, "evidence technology, evidence collection, the processing of crime and accident scenes, and fingerprint and biological evidence identification," according to Baxter-Ging. Three of them also have related college degrees. "It was important for (the forensic unit's leadership) to ensure that all of the members of the unit had that appropriate level of baseline training, and that there were good policies and protocols in place to ensure everyone was operating on the same sheet of music," McCoy said. Still, that consistency of work and the quality of certification matters in criminal court. The extent varies by case, depending on the strength and significance of forensic evidence and the totality of the evidence. Prosecutors explain the impact on cases Federal public defender Cary Sandman explained that even if forensic evidence or the testimony of forensic technicians were thrown out, cases with other rock-solid evidence, such as eyewitness testimony or confession, might be largely unaffected. "If, apart from the crime scene evidence, the state had other substantial evidence of guilt, that might undermine the impeachment of a single uncertified witness," Sandman said. He added that the absence of certification was context-driven and case-specific in how it could shape the outcome of a trial. Experts also emphasized that prosecutors have a constitutional obligation to notify defense lawyers if they find evidence that could help them argue the innocence of their clients. That legal principle was established by the U.S. Supreme Court in its landmark ruling on Brady v. Maryland. Trial court judges have thrown out cases after finding out that prosecutors withheld such exculpatory evidence from defense teams. Prosecutors can face disciplinary sanctions for misconduct involving failure to disclose Brady evidence. This lies at the heart of why Tempe chose to review old cases. The review might identify in advance, rather than after the fact, any potential Brady problems that could complicate a prosecution. Rich Robertson, a private investigator who specializes in criminal defense, also said Tempe should act quickly to make things right if police uncover forensic evidence that was questionable or could be challenged in court. And cleaning up that mess could involve re-launching investigations into specific crimes. "If there are cases that the outcomes may have been affected by these lower standards. I think it's incumbent upon the police department and the County Attorney's Office to work on the case to revisit those cases," he said. In response to The Republic's questions about whether prosecutors were aware of Tempe's review process, a spokesperson for the County Attorney's Office responded by email: "At this time, the Maricopa County Attorneys Office is following up with Tempe police to determine if any action is needed on our part." Reporter Sam Kmack covers Tempe, Scottsdale and Chandler. Follow him on Twitter @KmackSam or reach him at sam.kmack@arizonarepublic.com. Reporter Elena Santa Cruz covers Mesa, Tempe, and Glendale police. Reach her at elena.santacruz@gannett.com This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Tempe police asks Mesa to process crime scenes: Here's why Coffee County General Sessions Judge Greg Perry issued a protective order in June prohibiting the Tennessee Highway Patrol footage from being disseminated to the public. A Georgia man whose five young children were taken away and put in foster care for two months after a misdemeanor traffic stop cannot release unredacted dashboard and bodycam evidence from the incident. Deonte Williams attorney contended he had a First Amendment right to release footage from the February traffic stop conducted by the Tennessee Highway Patrol. According to the Tennessee Lookout, troopers in Coffee County pulled Williams over for dark tint and traveling in the left lane while not actively passing as he drove with his family from Georgia to Chicago. Dawn Deaner, representing Williams and his partner, Bianca Clayborne, received the unredacted video of the traffic stop in response to a subpoena; however, the matter never proceeded to trial, where it might have been presented as evidence and formed part of the courts public record. A judge in Tennessee has denied Georgia father Deonte Williams the right to publicly distribute bodycam footage from a traffic stop he and his family (above) were in seven months ago that led to his young children being put in foster care. (Photo: Screenshot/YouTube.com/11 Alive News) There must be a compelling government interest to prohibit speech in this manner, Deaner said. They came by these recordings in a lawful manner. There shouldnt be any reason they cannot share them. The people involved in them are their children and them, so if they feel comfortable sharing videos with whomever they wish to share them with, they should have the freedom to do that. Coffee County General Sessions Judge Greg Perry issued a protective order in June prohibiting the footage from being disseminated to the public and warned anybody who did so would be in contempt. The video shows troopers searching their Dodge Durango, detaining the family and arresting Williams for possessing less than five grams of marijuana, a misdemeanor in Tennessee. Clayborne was cited and told she could leave with the couples children. However, when Clayborne went to the jail to post Williams bond, police and social workers showed up and took their five minors, who were 4 months to 7 years old. Williams pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of simple possession, while authorities withdrew Claybornes charges in August. Perry denied the familys motion to disclose footage it already had, saying he was worried that doing so would violate the gag order imposed in juvenile court, where the couple fought to bring their children home following the traffic stop. The gag order came as a result of the family and their attorney speaking publicly about the childrens removal, the Department of Childrens Services conduct, and the proceedings in juvenile court. Deaner argued that the gag order was an unlawful limit on the couples constitutionally protected speech rights. The incident garnered widespread public attention and sparked controversy as many questioned whether the Black familys treatment was racially motivated in a predominantly white, rural area of Tennessee. Coffee County District Attorney Marcus Simmons said the court should legally prohibit the family from distributing the hours of unredacted film they already had, arguing that the state opposed giving it to them in the first place. Instead, he said, the pair might file a public records request with the Tennessee Highway Patrol, which could choose to redact sections of the footage. I just want to remind the court here there are children I dont know if these children, months, years from now, if they want their faces on the news, Simmons said. The state would just ask to keep those interests in mind also. However, Perry did agree to amend his previous order to allow the parents and the general public to submit formal document requests with the Tennessee Highway Patrol for redacted versions of the dashboard and body camera tapes. TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today! The post Tennessee judge denies family right to release bodycam footage of traffic stop that landed 5 children in foster care appeared first on TheGrio. Rep. Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.) continued the rights war on abortion access on Thursday. Joining the notoriously anti-abortion group Students for Life Action on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, Ogles debuted legislation to ban medication abortion nationwide on the 23rd anniversary of the Food and Drug Administrations approval of mifepristone, one of the two medications commonly used in medication abortion. The attack on medication abortion also came on International Safe Abortion Day, an advocacy day to, well, support safe abortions worldwide. Read more Abortion providers were quick to point out the misinformation given at Ogles press conference for the legislation. .@RepOgles announces a bill to ban abortion pills (the most common method of abortion) nationwide pic.twitter.com/a7VCGH9CQi Alice Miranda Ollstein (@AliceOllstein) September 28, 2023 Harassing and shaming people who need access to abortion care has always been a long relied upon, deceitful tactic used by anti-abortion extremists across the country, Dr. Jamila Perritt, president and CEO of Physicians for Reproductive Health and an OBGYN in Washington, D.C., said in a statement. These most recent attacks on mifepristone are just another example of how far anti-abortion extremists will go to mislead and misinform the public about their health care options. Last year, Students for Life Action helped pass 18 anti-abortion laws across the country and introduce 29 anti-abortion bills at the federal and state levels, including similar medication abortion restriction or bans. The groups biggest success has been supporting a state-level ban on distributing abortion pills in Wyoming; however, a judge temporarily blocked that law from taking effect, leaving abortion pills legal in the state. More from Jezebel Sign up for Jezebel's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. By Dan Levine and Hyunjoo Jin SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) -The lawyer representing victims of a fatal crash of a Tesla Model 3 car in his opening statement in court on Thursday blamed the company's Autopilot driver assistant system, saying that "a car company should never sell consumers experimental vehicles." An attorney for Tesla, in the first U.S. trial over allegations that its Autopilot feature led to a death, however, said the crash was the result of "a classic human error." The trial, in a California state court, stems from a civil lawsuit alleging the Autopilot system caused owner Micah Lees Model 3 to suddenly veer off a highway east of Los Angeles at 65 miles per hour (105 kph), strike a palm tree and burst into flames, all in the span of seconds. The 2019 crash killed Lee and seriously injured his two passengers, including an 8-year-old boy who was disemboweled, according to court documents. The lawsuit, filed against Tesla by the passengers and Lee's estate, accuses Tesla of knowing that Autopilot and other safety systems were defective when it sold the car. Tesla said its Autopilot driver assistant system is not designed to make a sharp turn on a highway, as it defended the systems safety. Jonathan Michaels, an attorney for the plaintiffs, in his opening statement at the trial in Riverside, California, said that when the 37-year-old Lee bought Tesla's full self-driving capability package for $6,000 for his Model 3 in 2019, the system was in "beta," meaning it was not yet ready for release. "A car company should never sell consumers experimental vehicles," Michaels said. Michaels said the car's steering wheel made a sharp, 43-degree turn on a freeway, adding that excessive steering command is a known issue at Tesla." Tesla denied the claims, saying its Autopilot system puts "guardrails" on the angle of the steering wheel at high speeds, making it capable of steering only a little bit left or right on highways. Tesla also blamed the driver for being intoxicated. "The case is not about Autopilot," Michael Carey, an attorney for Tesla, said. "Autopilot makes a road safer. It is a good thing," he said. "It is a classic human error that caused the crash." The electric-vehicle maker also claims it was not clear whether Autopilot was engaged at the time of the crash. Tesla has been testing and rolling out its Autopilot and more advanced Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, which Chief Executive Elon Musk has touted as crucial to his company's future but which has drawn regulatory and legal scrutiny. Tesla won a bellwether trial in Los Angeles in April over a Tesla crash related to its Autopilot feature with a strategy of saying that it tells drivers that its technology requires human monitoring, despite the "Autopilot" name. In that incident in 2019, a Model S swerved into a curb and injured the driver. Jurors told Reuters after the verdict that they believed Tesla warned drivers about its system and that driver distraction was to blame. The stakes are higher in the trial this week, and in other cases, because people died. Tesla and plaintiff attorneys jousted in the run-up about what evidence and arguments each side could make. Tesla, for instance, won a bid to exclude some of Musks public statements about Autopilot. However, attorneys for the crash victims can argue that Lees blood alcohol content was below the legal limit, according to court filings. The trial, in Riverside County Superior Court, is expected to last a few weeks. (Reporting by Dan Levine and Hyunjoo Jin in San FranciscoEditing by Matthew Lewis) A Texas homecoming queen wasnt allowed to return to her former high school to crown her successor for wearing a stole representing her Mexican heritage to her graduation ceremony in May. The school district said the student wore an unapproved sash and cited insubordination as reasons for her not to be invited back. Kayleigh Craddock, 18, graduated from Brazosport High School in Freeport, Texas in May. She had been excited to carry on the tradition of crowning the next Homecoming Queen. Its a tradition. Every girl does it, Craddock told KHOU. Cynthia Vasquez received a call from the school on Friday saying her daughter wasnt allowed back because of her graduation dress. I was just so upset because why? Why wait so long to tell us? We already bought my dress, already paid for my hair, the student added. The school district confirmed that Craddock wasnt allowed back. Graduation dress guidelines are communicated to all graduates. The school policy addresses the wearing of unauthorized sashes or accessories. Unfortunately, a student wore an unapproved sash that was not in the guidelines for graduation dress. The student was asked to comply with the dress guidelines and refused, a statement reads. The graduate was Homecoming Queen last school year. However, because of the insubordination at the graduation ceremony in May, the graduate was not invited back to participate in the crowning of this years Homecoming Queen. A graduate and former Homecoming Queen at Brazosport High School, Kayleigh Craddock says she has been uninvited to crown the next queen after she wore a Mexican Heritage stole to graduation in May. The district says she did not comply with the dress code. More on @KHOU at 6:00. pic.twitter.com/b415dvgWK8 Janelle Bludau (@JanelleKHOU) September 25, 2023 The 18-year-old said there was confusion as to whether she could wear the stole at first. Ultimately, no one told her to take it off at graduation. I wouldnt have brought it if it was out of dress code. I wouldnt have brought it, period, she said. Her mother doesnt understand why the district waited until a week before the ceremony to call her. Just seems kind of petty at this point. It seems petty. Because you couldve addressed this back in May and here we are a week before (the ceremony), Vasquez said. Craddock wore a Mexican heritage stole over her graduation robe to honor her culture and family heritage. I wanted to represent my culture. I love being Mexican, and I will forever be proud, she said She loves being Mexican. She loves being Black. She loves to represent both her cultures. Thats why she wears her braid, her mother added. People taking photographs in front of the Khao Klang Nok monument at Thailand's Si Thep historical site on Sept. 14, 2023days before its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site sparked an unprecedented number of tourists to visit. Credit - Manan VatsyayanaAFP/Getty Images The Khao Klang Nok monument in Si Thep, an ancient town 150 miles north of Bangkok, has survived more than a thousand years as kingdoms and empires rose and fell around it. But in just the week since the terraced temple and its surrounding area was named a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Thai authorities have grown worried about its future. The designation, Thailands first cultural site listing in more than 30 years, has transformed what was a sleepy historical park into one of the countrys hottest tourist destinations. But to locals dismay, hordes of new visitors have taken to climbing up the parks most iconic ruins: a 20-meter-tall collapsed laterite stupa containing sacred Buddhist relics. Authorities have decried the act as inappropriate and pointless, and are now considering restricting access to the structure, which has long been free for visitors to roam. Personally, I think a ban would make this ancient place more valuable, Si Thep district chief Weerawat Wattanawongphreuk told local media on Tuesday. Going up to the top is nothing. People just want to take pictures of the scenery. It is better to stay below and view this ancient place. Since the 1,500-year-old complex was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Sept. 19, the Si Thep Historical Park and adjacent Khao Klang Nok monument have been met with an influx of tourism: about 20,000 visitors came last weekend, park authorities estimated, noting that the boom exceeded their expectations. More From TIME The ancient ruins of Si Thep were listed as a national archaeological site in 1935. Over the years, locals and archaeologists uncovered artifacts, including stone inscriptions and artwork, that reflect a range of influences including Hinduism, Mahayana Buddhism, the Khmer Empire, and the ancient Southeast Asian kingdom of Dvaravati, and that shed light on what started as a prehistoric farming village and later thrived as a vibrant hub of commerce and culture before eventually fading as modern Thailand developed around a new political center. But despite its rich history, the area remained relatively quiet until last week. For Thailand, which has been trying to revive its battered tourism industry after the pandemic, the recognition of The Ancient Town of Si Thep and Its Associated Dvaravati Monuments, as its officially listed by UNESCO, was celebrated by officials as a much-needed boost that, according to a statement by the foreign affairs ministry, brings great pride to the Thai people. A partial view of The Ancient Town of Si Thep and Its Associated Dvaravati Monuments, Thailands newest UNESCO World Heritage Site, in Phetchabun province, Sept. 14, 2023. Manan VatsyayanaAFP/Getty Images Its Thailands seventh World Heritage Sitejoining three other cultural heritage sites and three natural heritage sitesand the countrys newest cultural addition to the list since the Ban Chiang Archaeological Site was included in 1992. Globally, there are more than 1,000 World Heritage Sites. But while Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed his deepest gratitude to UNESCO for the recognition, experts have been worried that Si Thep is not prepared for the surge of attention its new status would draw. The area lacks adequate infrastructurefrom waste management to parking spacesto accommodate large numbers of tourists, Phacharaphorn Phanomvan, a heritage development scholar at Chulalongkorn University and an advisor to a cultural council on Si Thep, said at a press conference in Bangkok last week. She added that the UNESCO listing, which will drive up the value of Si Theps artifacts on the black market, may also encourage theft from the park, which was already one of the most looted sites in Thailand in the 1970s and 1980s. Questions are also being raised about what conservation efforts could mean for the local community. Phacharaphorn wrote in an op-ed on Thursday that some villagers in Si Thep who are caught in unresolved land disputes with the state may lose their homes as a result of the governments land reclamation plan; others could have their livelihoods threatened by potential bans on livestock farming, a traditional practice in the region, in the name of protecting the site. (Residents have already stopped growing crops upon instructions from authorities, she noted). And of course, theres the threat of overtourism, which has already wreaked havoc on some of the worlds most famed cultural destinations and natural landscapes and which experts say may transform Si Thep in similar ways. Read More: The World Heritage Hustle: Why Being On UNESCOs List Can Be a Curse If it is not managed properly, tourism can threaten the conservation of Si Thep, Sarinya Sungkatavat, a lecturer of international tourism and hospitality management at Mahidol University, tells TIME. I have seen so many ancient destinations, whether they are named [a] UNESCO World Heritage Site or not, [where] excessive visitation caused damage to the site[by] erosion, vandalism, or theft, for example. Authorities need to step up, says Sarinya, to make sure that visitors to the heritage site are limited and that they observe proper etiquette. It is very important to implement sustainable tourism practices that minimize these negative impacts and maximize the positive impacts of tourism on the site and its host communities. Some officials are blaming Si Thep residents for not capitalizing on the unprecedented traffic. Its truly unfortunate that the local community couldnt catch up in time, resulting in no facilities or services to benefit from the significant influx of tourists, Phetchabun Governor Wison Kositanont, who was a key advocate for the UNESCO designation, said in a Facebook post on Saturday. But its not just a matter of assigning blame. Theres a risk that if the growing problems arent addressed, Si Thep could lose its prized title. While rare, World Heritage Sites can be delisted if UNESCO finds them to be improperly managed. In 2021, the city of Liverpool was stripped of its World Heritage status after UNESCO found that the historic value of the citys docksonce a trading hub in the 18th and 19th centurieshad suffered an irreversible loss due to development. Only two other places have been similarly struck off the UNESCO list: the Arabian Oryx Sanctuary in Oman (delisted in 2007 after the government drastically reduced its size upon discovering oil at the site) and the Dresden Elbe Valley in Germany (delisted in 2009 after the government built a bridge that cut through the landscape). Maintaining a World Heritage Site is harder than being declared one, Jatuporn Buruspat, Thailands secretary of natural resources and environment told the press on Sept. 19 in Riyadh, where UNESCO announced its latest listees. Local residents and the general public have a part to play. Contact us at letters@time.com. Ethnic Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh ride a truck on their way to Kornidzor in Syunik region, Armenia, on Tuesday. (Stepan Poghosyan, Photolure photo via AP) More than 70,000 people, including close to 20,000 children, have fled the Nagorno-Karabakh region in Asia to Armenia, officials in the Armenian capital of Yerevan have said, in response to what some have labeled ethnic cleansing. Last week, Azerbaijan seized control of the so-called breakaway region after it launched a terrorist military operation. The assault lasted 24 hours before a ceasefire was agreed. On Sunday, residents scrambled to evacuate the region after Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, lifted a 10-month-long blockade on the regions lifeline the Lachin Corridor a road that connects the landlocked enclave to Armenia. For nearly a year, vital supplies including food and humanitarian aid could not enter the region. A convoy of cars of ethnic Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh moves to Kornidzor in Syunik region, Armenia, Tuesday. (Vasily Krestyaninov via AP) Over the last four days, the Lachin Corridor has been packed with cars and trucks carrying people who have fled their homes with little to no belongings. Ethnic Armenians fear a reprisal by the Azerbaijani government something it has strongly denied. Where is Nagorno-Karabakh? The Artsakh Republic better known by its Russian name, Nagorno-Karabakh is located in a mountainous region in the South Caucasus located between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Azerbaijan has laid claim on the region for decades despite the ethnically Armenian population claiming it as self-autonomous. The people are indigenous there, they have always lived there, Sossi Tatikyan, a foreign and security policy expert, told Yahoo News. They had lived there, until this week, for 3,000 years, and they have had different degrees of self-government throughout history. Even during the Soviet period, they had an autonomous status. Photo Illustration: Yahoo News; photos: Getty Images While under the control of the Soviet Union, the area was considered to be part of Azerbaijan despite it being home to a majority of ethnic Armenians. Following the fall of the Soviet Union, in 1991, a war broke out and the long-disputed territory became self-autonomous again. Backed by Israel and Turkey, Azerbaijan launched a war in 2020 known as the Second Karabakh War and took control of 75% of the land in the Nagorno-Karabakh region, concluding three decades of self-governance. The war ended in a ceasefire that was mediated by Russian and Turkish peacekeeping soldiers in the region. Since then, it has lain within Azerbaijans borders and has been recognized by the international community as being a part of Azerbaijan. However, more than 90% of its current 120,000 population is ethnically Armenian. Read more from Yahoo News What caused the latest conflict? Last week, Azerbaijan launched an offensive attack to restore constitutional order and dissolve the Armenian government in Stepanakert, the main city in the Nagorno-Karabakh republic. The conflict lasted 24 hours and a ceasefire was agreed to when Samvel Shahramanyan, the Nagorno-Karabakh regions president, agreed to the demands set by Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev. The demands saw the region come under Azerbaijani control. Ethnic Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh embrace upon arriving in Kornidzor in Syunik region, Armenia, on Tuesday. (Stepan Poghosyan, Photolure photo via AP) Armenian officials said that at least 200 people died and over 400 were wounded in the conflict. Tatoyan Foundation, a human rights nongovernmental organization, claimed that 18 civilians were killed, including six children. Meanwhile, Azerbaijani officials said that at least 192 troops were killed and 511 injured. Azerbaijani guards arrested Ruben Vardanyan, the former head of the government, and charged him with financing terrorism. Former foreign minister David Babayan said he would hand himself in to Azeri authorities. An ethnic Armenian woman from Nagorno-Karabakh sits inside an old Soviet-style car as she arrives in Armenia's Goris in Syunik region, Armenia, on Wednesday. (Vasily Krestyaninov/AP) On Thursday, it was reported that Shahramanyan signed a decree dissolving the republic and all the organizations and departments within it ending all dreams of independence as part of a ceasefire deal. It will cease to exist from Jan. 1, 2024, a statement read. How the international community including Kim Kardashian has responded On Tuesday, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said he was following with concern the growing humanitarian situation in Armenia, adding that protection of all civilians must be an absolute priority. Celebrity Kim Kardashian urged President Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken to impose sanctions against Azerbaijan and stop another Armenian genocide. Kardashian, who is half-Armenian, asked the president to take a stand immediately. An ethnic Armenian man who was injured during an explosion at a crowded gas station in Stepanakert, the capital of Nagorno-Karabakh, is seen in an ambulance at the National Burn Medical Center in Yerevan, Armenia, on Tuesday. (Hayk Baghdasaryan/Photolure Photo via AP) The head of the U.S. Agency for International Development, Samantha Power, traveled to Armenia earlier this week, where she met with those who had arrived in Armenia. The military attacks of last week have made a dire situation even worse, she said, adding that many had arrived with severe malnutrition. Power came under criticism for her delayed response and the lack of action taken by USAID during the 10-month-long blockade on the region. Meanwhile, on Tuesday, Blinken said he spoke to President Aliyev and urged him to refrain from further hostilities. The statements from Secretary Blinken ... and Power were too little too late, the foreign policy expert Tatikyan said. International presence was needed to ensure the security and rights of Armenians in Nagorno Karabakh, what would its mission be after most Armenians have fled and their self-governance bodies abolished? What happens next? Officials in Azerbaijan said the next steps were to discuss reintegration for the Armenians willing to stay. Those who dont want to accept Azerbaijani jurisdiction, they have to leave, Farid Shafiyev, chair of the Center of Analysis of International Relations in Baku, told CNN. Those who would like to stay and get the passports, they are welcome to stay. After months of starvation, many Armenians feared for a future under Azerbaijani rule, and so tens of thousands fled. Ethnic Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh arrive in Kornidzor, Syunik region, Armenia, on Tuesday. (Stepan Poghosyan/Photolure Photo via AP) An ethnic Armenian man who was injured during an explosion at a crowded gas station in Stepanakert is transported to the National Burn Medical Center in Yerevan, Armenia, on Tuesday. (Hayk Baghdasaryan/Photolure Photo via AP) Ethnic Armenians line up to receive humanitarian aid at a temporary camp in Goris on Tuesday. (Vasily Krestyaninov via AP) A family walks along a road from Nagorno-Karabakh to Kornidzor on Tuesday. (Vasily Krestyaninov/AP) Three men have been charged with capital murder in a shooting earlier this year in East Gadsden, according to the Gadsden Police Department. Jakarious Moore, 18; DAngelo Martin, 26; and Kendrick Williams, 19, are accused in the death of Jacob Graham. All are being held without bond in the Etowah County jail. According to police, officers were dispatched at 11:50 a.m. March 30 to a report of shots fired on Mississippi Street, near Green Pasture Park. When they arrived, they found Graham sitting in his car with multiple gunshot wounds. He was taken to UAB Hospital, where he died two weeks later. However, he was able to tell detectives that he was robbed and shot while attempting to sell a firearm. The subsequent investigation led to the arrests of Moore, Martin and Williams. Martin had been jailed since April on attempted murder, first-degree robbery and probation violation charges and for minor vehicle violations. Williams had been jailed since May on first-degree robbery and attempted murder charges. Moore was arrested on Tuesday. This article originally appeared on The Gadsden Times: Three charged in Gadsden shooting Three Baton Rogue, Louisiana, police officers are on administrative leave after a series of federal lawsuits exposing the abuse and sexual humiliation taking place at an unmarked torture warehouse known as the Brave Cave that was operated by members of the Baton Rouge police department (BRPD). Related: Louisiana police accused of unconscionable abuse in Brave Cave Baton Rouges police chief, Murphy Paul, told city councilors on Wednesday night that the department would hold itself accountable as the FBI investigates alleged civil rights violations at the agency stemming from the allegations that members of the department may have abused their authority. Paul noted during the meeting that the Brave Cave, which had been used to process prisoners after an arrest, had received nine complaints, four of which resulted in criminal investigations, the Advocate reported. The alleged abuse by the Street Crimes unit at what was known as the narcotics processing facility echoed past incidents of police misconduct and abuse at off-site facilities. Those facilities include Homan Square in Chicago, where police officers detained thousands of people, most of whom were Black, at a warehouse on the citys west side. It also arises at a time when specialized police units have come under scrutiny for abusive policing practices after the beating death of Tyre Nichols by Memphis police officers involved with the now defunct Street Crimes Operation to Restore Peace in Our Neighborhoods (Scorpion) unit. Not long after the abuse allegations surfaced in lawsuits, Baton Rouges mayor, Sharon Weston Broome, disbanded the Baton Rouge Area Violence Elimination (Brave) unit and the citys police department reassigned its officers. The BRPD also permanently closed its warehouse facility. One of the officers placed on leave, Troy Lawrence Sr, is a deputy chief at the agency who previously led the disbanded Street Crimes unit, the Advocate reported, and the father of an officer named in the lawsuit. That officer, Troy Lawrence Jr, resigned in August from the agency after he received several complaints throughout the years. Lawrence faces a battery charge in a separate incident in which he drive-stunned a man in the back of a patrol car in August. A series of lawsuits filed in recent weeks detailed the suffering that was inflicted behind the walls of the Brave Cave by Baton Rouge police. The department was previously under scrutiny after an officer killed Alton Sterling outside a convenience store in 2016 a moment that reignited racial justice protests. In one case filed last week, a grandmother, Ternell Brown, had been detained at the facility in June after a traffic stop by officers Lawrence Jr and Matthew Wallace. They noticed two different prescription pills in the same bottle. Despite her offering to show validation for the prescriptions, they brought her to the Brave Cave, where they asked her to undress and forced her to spread her vagina and buttocks for inspection, according to the lawsuit. They ultimately released her without criminal charges. In a separate case filed less than a month ago, Jeremy Lee, 21, claimed that officers allegedly used excessive force on him at the warehouse after he was arrested without reasonable suspicion or probable cause, CNN reported. Officers, who allegedly switched their body cameras on and off during the incident, took Lee to the warehouse where they allegedly beat him, resulting in him being hospitalized with a fractured rib. Police later charged Lee with resisting an officer, according to court documents. Tim Scott spouted a special kind of evil during the second Republican presidential primary debate. It was supremely idiotic and indecent in the extreme. It was disgusting, an immorality in service of white conservatives he believes require a level of evil, idiocy, indecency, an immorality so profound it ought to shock the conscience. Scott said what he said because he believes thats what his target audience wants to hear. Hes convinced the white conservatives he needs to secure the GOP presidential nomination have no morals, no principles, not even a grade-school understanding of slavery or its effects. They should feel as much shame for how little he thinks of them as he should for having held forth on whitewashed nonsense. Scotts absurdity comes amid a period in which too many conservatives in too many states have been fighting to implement a Lost Cause 2.0, to shave off the edges of the worst of this countrys history, to re-establish comfortable lies and myths. The first black man from the Deep South to have won a seat in the U.S. Senate since Reconstruction stood on a stage in front of an overwhelmingly-white audience and compared the struggles black people faced during race-based chattel slavery slavery! to when entitlement programs got their start. He made it clear he believed black people had it better under slavery slavery! or at least less bad. Black families survived slavery, Scott said. We survived poll taxes and literacy tests. We survived discrimination being woven into the laws of our country. What was hard to survive was [President Lyndon] Johnsons Great Society where they decided to put money where they decided to take the black father out of the household to get a check in the mail and you can now measure that in unemployment, in crime and devastation. David Duke and Richard Spencer couldnt have said it better. Thomas Jefferson, the man who argued that black people werent really all that human, probably sat up in his grave and clapped after Scott spoke. Scotts words werent just offensive, but flat wrong. The black unemployment rate fell during Johnsons time in office while the black poverty was dramatically cut even though black people were decades from being able to fully utilize the Great Society programs the way white people did from the outset. He decided that slavery was the right comparison. Slavery! He wasnt satisfied with making a policy argument, couldnt just say he believed conservatives have better ideas and explained why he was the best candidate to turn them into reality when in the White House. He had to bring slavery into it slavery! the period during which the white enslaver could rape any black woman he wanted at any time, no matter her marital status. Or sell off a black husband or a black wife or black kids for whatever reason he wanted. It was referring to the period in which a third of black families were torn asunder during the Second Middle Passage alone. Scott represents the state first state to secede from the Union, the state where the Civil War began after Citadel cadets fired on the federal installation Fort Sumter. South Carolina was the only state in which at least half of all white households included enslaved people. Scott knows this. Hes no dummy. Not too long ago, he spoke forthrightly about systemic racism, how even as a U.S. senator he was racially profiled several times while going to work in D.C. But hes also the black man who made it easier for white Evangelical Christians in our state to accept Donald Trump when he jumped onto the Trump train even before Nikki Haley and Lindsey Graham. Thats why what he did was so devastating. Since Haley appointed him to replace the retiring Sen. Jim DeMint, Ive struggled to respect the man, knowing his is a precarious position in my native South Carolina. After what I saw Wednesday night, that struggle ended. Scott has made his choice an ugly, pernicious one unworthy of anyones respect. Issac Bailey is a McClatchy Opinion writer based in Myrtle Beach, SC. 2024 Republican presidential candidates Doug Burgum, from left, Chris Christie, Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, Senator Tim Scott and former US Vice President Mike Pence during a debate hosted by Fox Business Network in Simi Valley, California, US, on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. 2024 Republican presidential candidates Doug Burgum, from left, Chris Christie, Nikki Haley , Ron DeSantis , Vivek Ramaswamy , Senator Tim Scott and former US Vice President Mike Pence during a debate hosted by Fox Business Network in Simi Valley, California, US, on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. Tim Scott loves to blame Black people for their own racial, social and economic plightdespite Americas racist history being the reason for what we have endured. Tuesday night, during the second Republican debate hosted by Fox Business Network, he doubled down and said even more asinine things. The two-hour debate was pretty painful to watch and became even more unbearable when Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was asked to explain his states new Black history curriculum which says Black people benefitted from slavery because they were able to develop skills. Read more He continued: Black families survived slavery. We survived poll taxes and literacy tests. We survived discrimination being woven into the laws of our country. Scotts seemingly changed rhetoric was put back on course when he said America is not a racist country and then decided to disparage Black families and insist that welfare was more damning to Black folks than slavery. What was hard to survive was Johnsons Great Society, where they decided to put money where they decided to take the Black father out of the household to get a check in the mail. Not only is that factually inaccurate, its continues to show how far Scott will go to win over conservative voters. Hes at 2 percent in the national polling average and clearly will do whatever it takes to change thiseven if it means once again disrespecting the hell out of Black folks. 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. Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and former Vice President Mike Pence both trolled biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy over his ties to business in China during the second GOP debate. When we have the conversation about the things that are happening on this stage, we think about the fact that Vivek just said that we were all good people and I appreciate that because last debate he said we were all bought and paid for, Scott said, launching a surprise broadside against his opponent. And I thought about that for a little while, and said, you know, I cant imagine how you could say that, knowing that you were just in business with the Chinese Communist Party, and the same people that funded Hunter Biden millions of dollars was a partner of yours as well, the South Carolina senator added. Nonsense, Ramaswamy interjected. Scotts remarks come as biopharmaceutical company Sinovant Sciences was formed between Ramaswamys Roivant Sciences and a state-owned Chinese investment companys private equity firm, according to The Washington Post. These are good people who are tainted by a broken system, Ramaswamy shot back at Scott. Pence also took a jab at Ramaswamy later during the debate, saying: Im glad Vivek pulled out of his business deal in 2018 in China. That must have been about the time he decided to start voting in presidential elections. Pence and Scotts remarks come after Ramaswamy saw a bump in polling following his rambunctious performance in the first GOP debate in Milwaukee. Both Pence and Scott have been polling in the single digits in most state and national polls. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Tiny bits of plastic have now become an essential component of clouds and may be contaminating nearly everything we eat and drink via plastic rainfall, according to a new study. These tiny plastic bits known to pose a threat to human health are called microparticles and are usually less than 5mm in length. They mostly form after larger plastic products break down over time and are found in industrial effluents. Previous research has linked these particles to a number of health risks to humans since their chemical constituents such as bisphenols and phthalates can disrupt hormones and are also linked to cancer, infertility and early puberty. Millions of tons of microplastic that end up in the ocean are finding their way into the atmosphere with the ocean spray, revealed a new study, published in the journal Environmental Chemical Letters. Scientists, including those from Waseda University in Japan, assessed for the first time how these plastic bits affect cloud formation and their potential impact on the climate crisis and human health as airborne particles. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to detect airborne microplastics in cloud water in both the free troposphere and atmospheric boundary layer, researchers wrote in the study. AMPs were detected in cloud water samples from mountain summits in Japan, which confirms that they play a key role in rapid cloud formation (Hiroshi Okochi/Waseda University) If the issue of plastic air pollution is not addressed proactively, climate change and ecological risks may become a reality, causing irreversible and serious environmental damage in the future, co-author Hiroshi Okochi said. In the study, researchers analysed cloud water collected from the summit of Mount Fuji, the southeastern foothills of Mt Fuji (Tarobo), as well as from the summit of Mt Oyama. Each of these regions are at altitudes ranging between 1,300-3,776m. Scientists used advanced imaging techniques to determine the presence of airborne microplastics (AMP) in the cloud water and examined their physical and chemical properties. They found nine different types of polymers and one type of rubber in these airborne particles. The polymer polypropylene that was detected in the samples was found to be degraded and had carbonyl and/or hydroxyl groups. Researchers also found an abundance of hydrophilic, or water loving polymers in the cloud water. The latest finding suggests these molecules were removed as condensation nuclei, suggesting these airborne plastic particles could play a key role in rapid cloud formation and potentially affect the overall climate. Backward trajectory analysis at the summit of Mt Fuji in the free troposphere suggested that airborne microplastics in cloud water were originated primarily from the ocean, researchers said. This implies that microplastics may have become an essential component of clouds, contaminating nearly everything we eat and drink via plastic rainfall, scientists explained. They warned that the accumulation of AMPs in the atmosphere especially in the polar regions can also significantly alter the ecological balance of the planet and lead to severe loss of biodiversity. AMPs are degraded much faster in the upper atmosphere than on the ground due to strong ultraviolet radiation, and this degradation releases greenhouse gases and contributes to global warming, Dr Okochi said. As a result, the findings of this study can be used to account for the effects of AMPs in future global warming projections, he said. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) Tennessee is taking a serious look at declining federal education money, saying it comes with too many strings attached. The federal government was set up by the states, Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton (R-Crossville) said. The states are the parents, not the federal government. We should do everything that we can to be whole and autonomous and independent from the federal government. Democrats have branded the move as another step away from the funding of public schools. Tennessee Republican leadership lays groundwork to potentially reject federal education dollars Anyway theyre going to pitch this is just simply window dressing, House Democratic Caucus Chairman John Ray Clemmons (D-Nashville) said. They can make it sound as common sense as they can try, but at the end of the day, its all about undermining our public schools. Gov. Bill Lee (R-Tennessee) didnt commit to whether hed support the potential rejection. Instead, he actually somewhat distanced himself from Sextons and Lt. Gov. Randy McNallys decision, reiterating twice that the decision came from the General Assembly. Its a task force working group that the General Assemblys putting together, Lee said. The Speakers put together this group, Lee said again, later on. Republicans reviving bill to scramble Tennessee Historical Commission However, the governor did say he wants to at least have the discussion. The federal government has had excessive overreach time and time again over the last few years, Lee said. With all the talk over the last few months around rejection of federal funding you may remember Tennessee declined federal funding to fight HIV earlier this year it raised a question of whether the state is trying to become too independent. Is this the first move toward secession? Tennessee Lookout reporter Sam Stockard asked Sexton. Thats a whole different conversation. This is all about money, about philosophy, and about the strings that are attached, right? Sexton said. Can all the states do this? I dont know, but Tennessees not the only one looking at this. When the reporter followed up, Sexton did indicate he didnt think the move was secessionary. Sam, once youre talking about something that its not, thats your opinion. Thats not my opinion, he said. But you know, you can write what you want to write. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. Van Gogh Museum partnered with the Pokemon Company to celebrate their 50th anniversary. Read Also: 5 Pokemon-Themed Tech Collectibles You Can Find on Etsy Pokemon Adventure with Van Gogh Pokemon's Pikachu, Eeeve, Snorlax, and many others are joining the Van Gogh Museum's 50th anniversary special event. The goal of the collaboration is to introduce young artists to Gogh and his works. Moreover, it will also give the artists ideas on how Gogh was influenced by Japanese art. "This collaboration will allow the next generation to get to know Vincent van Gogh's art and life story in a refreshing way," general director of Van Gogh Museum Emilie Gordenker said in a press release. The collaboration will feature various activations that are eye-catching especially to the young audience. The Van Gogh Museum and Pokemon partnership will be available starting September 28, 2023 to January 7, 2024. The museum also reminded that the admission ticket is mandatory and can only be purchased online. Pokemon x Van Gogh Activations Both companies promised a fun and fulfilling activities that will surely be enjoyed by everyone. For instance, a presentation of Pokemon painting inspired by Van Gogh's style. A total of six paintings will be featured on the first floor of the Rietveld building. In addition, an adventure activity awaits for children ages six and up. The visitors will also have the chance to win a special Pikachu x Van Gogh Museum promo card. For older audience, an online learning material can be used to teach students to understand Gogh's life and art. Lastly, a "How to draw Pikachu" video activity will be held at the museum which encourages visitors to see and try it for themselves to create an artwork. Other exclusive merchandise will be sold at the Van Gogh Museum Shop and The Pokemon Centre online store. Related Article: McDonald's Launches New Pokemon Happy Meal A 2-year-old girl was killed Wednesday night in a shooting, according to the Kershaw County Sheriffs Office. The sheriffs office said it was told that the toddler was accidentally shot. The Kershaw County Coroners Office has not publicly identified the child. At about 10:40 p.m., deputies responded to a call about a shooting at the Sherwood Forest Apartments in Lugoff, the sheriffs office said in a news release. Thats near U.S. 601, in the area between Interstate 20 and the Wateree River. The caller said the 2-year-old was accidentally shot by a gun that she possibly got off a dresser, according to the release. Deputies and South Carolina Highway Patrol troopers responded to the apartment where they provided medical aid to the child and secured the scene, the sheriffs office said. The Lugoff Fire Department and Kershaw County EMS also responded to help the child, but all efforts to save the girl were unsuccessful, according to the release. No other injuries were reported. There was no word if anyone will face criminal charges in the toddlers death, but it continues to be investigated by sheriffs deputies along with the coroners office, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Divisions Child Fatality Unit as well as SLEDs Crime Scene Unit. DALLASAt the heart of the civil trial concerning Tony Timpawho died during a mental health crisis after calling 911 in August 2016was an appeal made to the jury by the lead defense counsel, Senior Assistant City Attorney Lindsay Wilson Gowin. "Justice here is truth," she said. Then, invoking allegations that the Timpa family had not been transparent about various dark corners of Timpa's life, she added: "That's not how you find the truth." She had a point. But that statement, made during closing arguments Tuesday, was a bit ironic, particularly when considering the lengths the government went to in order to obscure basic transparency and keep the events of that summer night a secret. Indeed, the trial, which almost didn't come to fruition, has come to symbolize how difficult it is for alleged victims of government abuse from stating their case, and the importance of allowing those claims a fair and public hearing, no matter the outcome. Today, a federal jury rendered their verdict. The panel of eight found that Officer Dustin Dillard, Senior Cpl. Raymond Dominguez, and Officer Danny Vasquez did in fact violate Timpa's constitutional rights during a roughly 15-minute interaction on Dallas' Mockingbird Lane. But they gave Dillard and Vasquez qualified immunity, concluding that, while their actions were unlawful, a reasonable officer couldn't have been expected to know as much. A fourth defendant, Sgt. Kevin Mansell, the highest-ranking officer supervising the scene that evening, was vindicated entirely. The city will have to pay Timpa's son $1 million in damages. On August 10, 2016, Timpa dialed 911 and said he suffered from various mental illnesses and was off his medication. The emergency dispatch center received a few other 911 calls reporting that a manwho turned out to be Timpawas running in traffic. Two security guards handcuffed and detained him while they waited for the police. What happened next would in some sense come to define the subsequent seven years for both the officers involved and Timpa's family. To subdue Timpa, the officers re-handcuffed him and zip-tied his feet, with Dillard and Vasquez holding him in the prone position facedown. Vasquez stopped applying force about two minutes thereafter, while Dillard pressed his knee, with some additional help from his hands, into Timpa's back for approximately fourteen minutes and seven seconds. Timpa initially resisted the restraint, yelling for help and thrusting his shoulder upward; his activity gradually peters out over the course of the body camera footage. Toward the latter third of the video, his pushing becomes twitching, his speech slurs, and for the final few minutes, he is limp. Vasquez and Dominguez are heard mocking Timpa nearby, comparing him to a schoolboy who they taunt with "new shoes," "waffles" ("tutti-frutti" flavor), and "scrambled eggs" to excite him out of bed. Both men, along with Mansell, faced bystander liability for declining to intervene; Dominguez outranked Vasquez, which perhaps explains the discrepancy on qualified immunity. Timpa was pronounced dead at 32 years old. The trialconvened in response to a federal lawsuit filed by several members of the Timpa family against those copsbecame a war of words over how exactly Timpa died, which depends on whom you ask. The plaintiffs contend it was positional asphyxia caused by the prone restraint, a theory buttressed primarily by pulmonologist Martin Tobin. The defense countered with the official autopsy report, citing that Timpa passed away after experiencing "sudden cardiac death due to the toxic effects of cocaine and [the] physiologic stress associated with physical restraint," with an emphasis on the cocaine. Jeffrey Barnard, the chief medical examiner of Dallas County, testified that Timpa's substance abuse, high blood pressure, and the stress of struggling against the restraint caused his heart to abruptly stop beating. Also on trial was the prone restraint itself. Is it a deadly maneuver that has long been cautioned against? Yes, said the plaintiffs, invoking a 1995 report from the Department of Justice on the danger of sudden asphyxiation from the prone. They leaned heavily on Tobin as well as Martin D. Lyman, a researcher and professor emeritus of criminal justice at Columbia College of Missouri, who testified that the force used on Timpa was "improper, unnecessary, and unreasonable." Or is the prone restraint a tried and true tactic for maintaining order? Yes, said the defense, appealing to Senior Cpl. Jeffery Metzgera police officer, emergency physician, and professor of medicine at the University of Texas Southwesternand Senior Cpl. Sam Hanson, who helps lead training at the Dallas Police Department (DPD). "There were no good options," said Hanson. He emphasized Timpa's erratic state and that the risk of suffocation from the prone position is "remote." Central to the plaintiffs' argument was that DPD general orders and standard operating procedures warn officers to move subjects out of the proneto sit them up or roll them onto their sideas soon as possible. The defense maintained that those are guidelines, not hard-and-fast rules. And while Timpa was under "a level of control," they said, the officers had not established "full control," and thus the continued use of the restraint was justified. The Timpas' lead attorney, Geoff Henleythe sort of flamboyant lawyer who appeals to his southern charmhad asked the jury to give compensatory damages amounting to $40,911,911.00 for Tony's mother, Vicki Timpa; $40,911,911.00 for Tony's father, Joe Timpa; $120,911,911.00 for Timpa's son; and $100,911,911.00 for Timpa's estate. The 911 bookends were not coincidental. "They're not picking up the call," Henley told the jury, accusing the DPD of resisting reform. "I certainly hope you will." To calculate additional punitive damageswhich are meant not to make a victim whole but to punishhe instructed the jury to use a culpability scale ranging from one to 14. The total damages, combining compensatory and punitive, could have exceeded $1 billion. On the stand, Dominguez and Vasquez apologized for their crass comments but insisted they were not responsible for Timpa's demise. The comments were "inappropriate," Gowin conceded, but they ultimately showed the officers were unaware of how much the situation had decayed, she told the jury. Dillard choked up as he recounted growing up with his abusive stepfather, who was also a police officer, and who would have his mother arrested when the two had domestic disputes. "I did not kill Mr. Timpa," he said. "I hated that he died." And what about Timpa's private life? To some degree, the trial became about The Secret Life of Tony Timpa, with the defense excavating details surrounding his long-term substance abuse, his trips to rehabilitation facilities, his pre-existing heart issues, and his alcohol intake. Henley called the tactic a "smear campaign," particularly as it pertained to Timpa's alcohol consumption, since the toxicology report did not show alcohol in his bloodstream the night he died. But whether or not those parts of his life were really a secret is disputed. Following Timpa's death, his father told medical examiners that he did not know of any struggles Timpa had with illicit drugs. On the stand, his ex-wife, Cheryll Timpa, also insisted she was oblivious to such problems. That belied reality, the defense said, noting Timpa's multiple trips to rehab. "The only people who Timpa's life wasn't a secret to," said Gowin, were "the Timpas." They weren't the only ones allegedly keeping secrets. For three years, the DPD refused to release the bodycam footage, relinquishing it only after a court ordered them to do so in August 2019. Detectives with the department reportedly lied to Tony's mother on multiple occasions, telling her conflicting stories about what happened to her son, including that he'd had a heart attack at a bar. The department's deceit played a minor role in the trial; the detectives who relayed those tales to Vicki were not named in the suit. Following the release of the video, the city spent the next several years attempting to stop a trial from happening. To do so, its attorneys invoked qualified immunity, the legal doctrine that prevents civil suits against state and local government employees from proceeding if the misconduct alleged was not "clearly established" with near-exactitude in a prior court precedent. In the summer of 2020, the U.S. District Court of the Northern District of Texas awarded all the officers qualified immunity; that ruling was ultimately overturned by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit in December 2021. In May 2022, the Supreme Court declined to hear the case. "A jury could find that Timpa was subdued by nine minutes into the restraint and that the continued use of force was objectively unreasonable in violation of Timpa's Fourth Amendment rights," wrote Judge Edith Brown Clement in her opinion for the 5th Circuit. "Of course, a jury may ultimately conclude the opposite: that Timpa was not subdued and that he continued to pose an immediate threat throughout his restraint. Ultimately, it is the job of the factfinder, not of this court, to resolve those factual disputes for itself." In ruling as it did, the jury essentially sent the message that, while the officers' actions were unconstitutional, the facts were more nuanced than those presented in the Timpas' complaint. The police had still violated the Fourth Amendment, the jury concluded, but a reasonable officer could have run afoul of that standard. That yearslong obstacle course the Timpas navigated to get that answer is not unique to them. Plaintiffs alleging government abuse must spend years clearing a dense thicket of hurdles, fighting appeal after appeal, for the opportunity to plead their case before a jury of their peers. Many never make it that far. That includes a Georgia woman whose 10-year-old son was shot by an officer who was aiming at their non-threatening dog; two California men from whom officers allegedly stole $225,000 while executing a search warrant; and an elderly Georgia man whose house was wrongfully targeted in a SWAT raid. None were able to find the perfect court precedent required to circumvent qualified immunity, so none were permitted to go to trial, despite raising plausible allegations of unconstitutional conduct. Those trials can certainly be expensive. Also expensive: making the taxpayer fund years of litigation and appeals so that other taxpayers are not able to air grievances and seek damages against the public servants whose salaries they pay. Government actors are almost always indemnified, meaning that any damages awarded are paid by the government, not the individual employee. In her closing, Gowin zeroed in on accountability. "They've been accountable to you," she said. "That is the point of a trial." That is indeed the point. It took seven years to get there. Unfortunately, it almost didn't happen. The post Tony Timpa Wrongful Death Trial Ends With 2 Out of 3 Cops Getting Qualified Immunity appeared first on Reason.com. SEABROOK Jessica Edom-Zajac said she remembers clearly seeing a Toyota Corolla strangely emerge from traffic turning left into The Brook casino on Saturday, Nov. 5, 2022. I said, 'Whats that car doing?' she recalled. Thats when Jeff turned to me and said, Brace yourself. Edom-Zajac said she closed her eyes and held her arms to her chest as the car continued, crashing into the motorcycle she was on with her husband, Jeff Zajac. She remembers waking up at the crash scene. Badly injured, she said she called for Jeff but quickly was told what happened. Hes gone, she heard someone say before passing out again. Jessica Edom-Zajac wipes away tears Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023, as she talks about her husband, Jeff, who was killed in a car vs. motorcycle crash in front of The Brook in Seabrook in November 2022. Edom-Zajac was also on the motorcycle and is still doing physical therapy due to injuries sustained in the crash. Almost 11 months later, Edom-Zajac is recovering physically but still devastated by the loss of her husband, who she married in August 2022. Zajac, 51, and Edom-Zajac, 50, were scheduled to hold a wedding ceremony a week following the crash. They had eloped earlier. Zajac was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident, while his wife was left with serious injuries. The driver of the Corolla, Dennis Martin, 76, of Salisbury, Massachusetts, has been indicted on charges of negligent homicide and vehicular assault. Police said alcohol was not believed to be a factor, but the indictments allege he cut off Zajacs motorcycle, causing the crash. Jessica Edom-Zajac holds the obituary card of her husband Jeffrey in her hands Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023 as the scene of the crash that took his life in Seabrook in November 2022. Edom-Zajac said she has internally forgiven Martin and does not believe he meant to take her husbands life. She believes he broke the law, however, and could have driven safely into The Brook parking lot. I do feel that he should be charged, Edom-Zajac said. He took my world within a flash because he was impatient to wait. Previous story: Fatal Seabrook crash: Driver faces charges for hitting newlyweds on motorcycle Newlyweds met and fell in love at Hampton Beach Edom-Zajac said it was her husbands gentlemanly nature and the twinkle in his eye that made her fall in love. She said they were at Wallys Pub in Hampton Beach on their first date Nov. 12, 2019, when she told him to just be himself. He flashed a grin. Are you sure? he asked her. I said bring it on, Edom-Zajac said she replied. The two were engaged on the same date the next year, and they chose the same date for their wedding, Nov. 12, 2023. Zajac wanted to do everything for Edom-Zajac, she recalled. He surprised her by fixing her car before she even knew he could work on automobiles. She said he treated his mother the same as well. If he could do it, he did it, she said. Zajac believed strongly in chivalry, she said. He insisted on opening the car door each time they drove, she said. He always carried the groceries in and told her to go inside. Edom-Zajac said she was an independent woman but embraced Zajacs affection. He won me over, Zajac said. We just had this unbelievable chemistry and genuine love for each other. The couple were planning to hold their wedding in Atkinson but lived in Shirley, Massachusetts. With Zajacs busy work schedule, they thought they would never find time to go north to New Hampshire to get the marriage certificate. Instead, they decided to go down the street and get it done at the town hall in August 2022. To us, we were always married to each other by heart, Edom-Zajac said. More: Two Seabrook selectmen accuse each other of assault after police called to Town Hall Wife: Driver who killed husband made 'bad judgment call' Edom-Zajac said her memory of the crash leaves her with no doubt that Martin should be charged. The couple was on the bike at 2:14 p.m. that day when she recalled seeing Martins 2010 Toyota waiting in line to turn left at The Brook. She said the driver was cutting ahead of other cars to enter the casino. It was like he was going straight on (Route) 107, Edom-Zajac said. Edom-Zajac does not believe Martin meant to take Zajacs life. However, she believes he made a conscious decision behind the wheel and should have known better. Jessica Edom-Zajac, seen Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023, in Seabrook, describes the entrance to The Brook Casino, where she and her husband, Jeff Zajac, who were on a motorcycle together, collided with a Toyota Corolla in a crash that took her husband's life in November 2022. I dont think he set foot to take that left and take Jeff out, Edom-Zajac said. I think his intention was to beat traffic and cut across, and he made a bad judgment call. Martin is facing two counts of Class B felony negligent homicide and two counts of misdemeanor vehicular assault. Each of the felonies carries 3 to 7 years in prison, while the misdemeanors could carry up to 1 year in jail. Edom-Zajac said she has no ill will towards Martin but believes the crash was no traffic accident. She plans to attend Martins Oct. 20 arraignment in Rockingham Superior Court in Brentwood. Jessica Edom-Zajac holds her husband Jeff close to her heart as she speaks lovingly about their time together Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023. The two were riding a motorcycle in front of The Brook Casino in Seabrook when her husband was killed in a collision with a car Saturday, Nov. 5, 2022. Do I want him to go to jail? I really dont, Edom-Zajac said. But I also know its out of my hands. These are the laws, and this is what theyre charging him with. Landmark case: Teacher charged under NH's new law for sex assault of 18-year-old student eyes plea deal Edom-Zajac recovers from injuries, remembers her husband The physical recovery for Edom-Zajac has been challenging, and she still has a long road. She suffered two punctured lungs and fractures in her arms, legs, pelvic area, neck, spine and ribs, according to her family. Edom-Zajac was going back to school while working in high-end catering. She said her injuries have left her unable to work, and she will need more physical therapy. Jessica Edom-Zajac wears her husband's wedding ring on a necklace Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023, speaking in Seabrook at the scene of the crash that took Jeff Zajac's life in November 2022. Support from a GoFundMe page posted last year has left Edom-Zajac grateful. The page has raised $28,394 to go towards medical bills, but also the cost of living. She also said losing Zajac forced her to find a new home, as they were still looking for a house together. I was blown away, Edom-Zajac said. This Saturday, Sept. 30, Edom-Zajac is hosting a motorcycle ride in Zajacs honor, starting and ending at the VFW on Route 125 in Kingston. She plans to make it the annual Ride for Life/ Ride for Jeff for years to come with all proceeds going to Zajacs favorite charities. Remembering her husband is hard with him gone, Edom-Zajac said, but she is happy she got to be part of his life. Im so grateful that I became his wife, she said. I had the opportunity to love him and to know him and be a part of him. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Widow of Seabrook NH Route 107 motorcycle crash victim speaks out Israel's Supreme Court hears petitions against new law which limits conditions under which a premier can be removed from office Israel's Supreme Court hears petitions against new law which limits conditions under which a premier can be removed from office JERUSALEM (Reuters) -Israel's Supreme Court heard arguments on Thursday against a law passed by the ruling coalition limiting conditions for any removal of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from office, in the latest showdown among branches of government to grip the nation. Political watchdog groups and an opposition party have challenged the March 23 amendment to a quasi-constitutional "Basic Law," which Netanyahu's own attorney general described as designed to preserve his tenure amid a long-running graft trial. The law's proponents say it is meant to safeguard any democratically elected leader from a wrongful ouster. Eleven of the Supreme Court's 15 judges convened for the televised hearing, presided over by Chief Justice Esther Hayut, who retires next month. She has openly criticised a judicial overhaul sought by Netanyahu's religious-nationalist coalition. In a statement, Justice Minister Yariv Levin condemned the hearing as "a de facto discussion of rescinding the results of the election" that returned Netanyahu to power in December. The premier denies wrongdoing in three criminal cases against him. In an evening interview with Israeli public television, Levin said he did not watch Thursday's court discussion because it was "invalid" and "an absurd theatre." "It was a debate that should have never happened," Levin said. "In a democratic country you can't have a situation where the court will debate something that's not in its jurisdiction." The full court bench is separately preparing a ruling on challenges to a July amendment voiding its power to overrule some cabinet-level decisions on the basis of "reasonableness". Critics say that law removed one of the last checks on the executive and a coalition-controlled parliament, in a country that has no written constitution. Netanyahu argued for redress of what he calls overreach by an unrepresentative judiciary. Next month, the court is due to hear appeals relating to the convening of a committee for appointing judges, delayed due to a dispute over a government bid to shake up its membership. A ruling on the "incapacity clause", defining terms for deeming a premier unfit to serve, was not expected on Thursday. The Supreme Court's options include upholding the legislation as is, quashing it or ruling that it must not come into effect before the next parliamentary elections. Attorney General Gali Baharav Miara has recommended the latter. (Reporting by Maayan Lubell; Editing by Toby Chopra and Daniel Wallis) Mayor Cavalier Johnson answers questions from the press after delivering his budget address to the members of the Milwaukee Common Council on Tuesday September 19, 2023 at Milwaukee City Hall in Milwaukee, Wis. A top Milwaukee Police Department official on Thursday took responsibility for allowing the Common Council to be caught off guard late last week by media reports that an employee's mistake cost the city its opportunity to apply for a $15 million grant to hire additional police officers. "Part of my role is to communicate to the public and to our intergovernmental partners all that is necessary to inform and be transparent," Milwaukee Police Chief of Staff Heather Hough told the council's Public Safety and Health Committee. "In this case, I did not communicate the incident to the council when it occurred." She apologized for not reaching out to the council when Mayor Cavalier Johnson and the Fire and Police Commission had been notified after the incident in mid-May. And, she said, changes have been made to prevent similar grant application mistakes in the future, including requiring that applications be submitted at least five days before the deadline to allow time to resolve any technical issues well in advance. Council members expressed support for Hough and her decision to take responsibility for the lack of communication. The committee meeting came after the Mayor's Office admitted late last week that it wasnt the citys decision not to apply for the federal policing grant for 2024, known as a COPS grant, but that an employee had failed to meet the deadline and is now the subject of an internal investigation. Days earlier, Johnson and Budget Director Nik Kovac in an interview with the Journal Sentinel said the city was not applying for that grant in the 2024 budget, citing provisions in a new local government funding law known as Act 12. The law "provides a disincentive to apply for future COPS grants, which we are not doing in this year's budget," Kovac said in the interview. Johnson then added: "We've applied for COPS grants in the past because prior to (the passage of the law), at least, it made sense for us to do that and allow the federal government to cover the costs for three years. But now there's some disincentive for doing that." It was only once Mark Belling of News/Talk 1130 WISN-AM radio reported about the employee's mistake that Johnson's Chief of Staff Nick DeSiato and spokesman Jeff Fleming, who was present in the original interview, told the Journal Sentinel that the employee tried to submit the grant online just hours before the deadline but was prevented from completing the process due to a technical issue. They maintained that even if the city had applied for and been awarded the grant, the city would have had to turn it down because of the new law known as Act 12. The law requires Milwaukee to maintain the number of police officers and the daily staffing level in the fire department minimally at the numbers from the previous year excluding any who are in state- or grant-funded positions. But Common Council President Jose G. Perez told the Journal Sentinel that the city would have been in a better place to negotiate with state leaders on that provision in the law if millions of dollars hung in the balance. "I would rather try to fix a problem having $15 million than looking like the city lost an opportunity for it, the Police Department, the administration lost an opportunity for $15 million," he said. "And they're going to say, the way Act 12 is now it's not going to count. We didn't know that back in May." Perez said for the council, the lack of communication creates distrust in Johnson, his administration and the Police Department. The Journal Sentinel has filed open records requests with the Police Department, the Mayor's Office and the Budget Office seeking additional information about the grant, the employee's actions and communications between officials about the incident. Ald. Scott Spiker, who chairs the committee that heard from Hough, told the Journal Sentinel he found out about the situation over the weekend through an exchange with Ald. Robert Bauman. Bauman learned of it from a Friday email from Belling. "I understand ... that it's kind of a moot point now, but it wasn't when this failure occurred, and if this occurred back in May, well before Act 12 passed, it would have been real nice for us at the council to have been informed about it," Spiker said. He added: "It's not a $15,000 mistake, it's a $15 million mistake." Elliot Hughes of the Journal Sentinel staff contributed to this story. Alison Dirr can be reached at adirr@jrn.com. THANK YOU: Subscribers' support makes this work possible. Help us share the knowledge by buying a gift subscription. DOWNLOAD THE APP: Get the latest news, sports and more This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee Police Department apologizes after $15M grant mistake Sacramento County Executive Ann Edwards on Thursday announced she will retire early next year, ending a more than two-year tenure that county officials said was marked by several changes to its governments structure. A news release announcing Edwards departure said her retirement will be effective Jan. 26, and that an interim county executive will be announced at another date. The countys statement also praised Edwards, who was the first woman to occupy the role, for bringing stability and transparency. Together with the Countys 13,000 employees, it has been a privilege to serve people and watch our communities thrive, Edwards said in the prepared statement. Now its time for me to take a step back, do some traveling and enjoy more time with my family, especially my three wonderful grandchildren. Edwards first moved into the role as acting county CEO in December 2020, after her predecessor Navdeep Gill was placed on paid leave; the county launched an investigation in late 2020 into claims Gill harassed employees and created a toxic culture. Gill was later cleared of discrimination charges, though an independent investigation did report he was a bully. Gill retired in February 2021 after three supervisors said they didnt have confidence in his leadership abilities and the county public health officer signed a letter saying he created a toxic culture rife with sexism, intimidation, racism, and a blatant disregard for public health, The Sacramento Bee reported at the time. Edwards, who was appointed full-time county executive in September 2021, is credited with proposing a community engagement plan during last years budgeting process. It created surveys to help gauge the publics budget priorities and find high priorities for different stakeholders, the county news release said. Supervisors also approved a new public safety and justice agency during Edwards tenure, which sought to ensure oversight and accountability for public safety agencies in the county, the news release said. And she helped launch an employee academy that aimed to change the countys culture. District 3 Supervisor Rich Desmond, the boards chair, also commended Edwards abilities. Ann took on significant responsibilities during a critical period in our Countys history when she began her tenure in 2020, Desmond said in a statement. I speak on behalf of the entire Board when I say that Anns steady leadership and unwavering commitment to the well-being of the Countys organization and residents was instrumental in navigating the challenges we faced. Edwards worked as Sacramento Countys director of human assistance prior to assuming her post. She had a brief stint as Solano Countys director of social services. I want to express my heartfelt appreciation for the incredible leadership team that has stood by my side throughout this journey, Edwards said in her statement. Together, we have tackled numerous challenges and worked tirelessly to make our county a better place for all its residents. Their efforts have not only made my tenure as County Executive successful but have also positively impacted the lives of countless individuals. Operation Northwoods: It sounds like the title of a suspenseful military thriller. But this isn't a work of fiction; it was a top-secret plan developed by the DoD and the Joint Chiefs of Staff in 1962. The objective? To justify U.S. military intervention in Cuba. But here's the real kicker: the plan included staging false-flag operations, even acts of terrorism, on U.S. soil. Yeah, you heard it right. Let's delve into the infamous Operation Northwoods and why it never saw the light of day. Who was behind Operation Northwoods? The architect behind Operation Northwoods was none other than General Lyman Lemnitzer , a highly decorated officer who was the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff at the time. Born on August 29, 1899, Lemnitzer had an impressive military career, serving in World War II and the Korean War before rising to the top military position in the Pentagon. He was not alone in this endeavor. Every service branch chief backed his proposal and was part of a larger strategy document, memorably dubbed "Justification for U.S. Military Intervention in Cuba," stamped with the code "A TOP SECRET Sensitive." Apparently, the clever op-namer wasn't available that day. The date was March 13, 1962, when this chilling plan landed on the desk of Robert McNamara , the Secretary of Defense under President John F. Kennedy. Even McNamara, a former Ford Motor Company executive who became the Pentagon chief, must have felt shocked. He was famous for his analytical approach to defense issues. The situation was highly precarious, with the Cold War reaching one of its numerous high-water marks. The target was Cuba, a tiny island nation only 90 miles off the coast of Florida but a massive thorn in America's side since Fidel Castro had led a Communist revolution there in 1959. Relations between the United States and Cuba were more than just frosty; they were sub-zero. Operation Northwoods aimed to capitalize on this hostility, fueling the fire for an all-out U.S. invasion. The plan sought to manipulate public opinion and provide a real or imagined pretext for toppling Castro and his Communist regime. Actual photo of the Northwoods Memorandum for the U.S. Secretary of Defense (March 13, 1962) titled: "Justification for U.S. Military Intervention in Cuba (TS)". It's all in the details It's hard to fathom today, but the lengths to which Operation Northwoods was prepared to go to in order to justify an invasion of Cuba were truly staggering. Here's a breakdown of the four main elements of the operation: Imagine U.S. commercial planes lifting off from Miami International Airport or other American runways. CIA operatives or other U.S. personnel pilot these planes, executing a mid-flight "hijacking" while keeping the passengers in the dark. Authorities then report these flights as missing or even destroyed, blaming Cuban militants for the incidents. Remember that famous battle cry, " Remember the Maine? " Under Operation Northwoods, planners envisioned something similar happening. Only this time, the ship would then be deliberately sunk, but not before the crew was secretly evacuated. The wreckage would serve as a silent witness, accusing Cuba of an unprovoked attack on American forces. The plan went so far as to consider carrying out terrorist attacks on U.S. soil. Locations like Miami, Washington, D.C., and even New York City were potential targets. Bombs would go off in busy marketplaces or train stations, and again, Cuba would be framed as the instigator. A sustained media operation was also in the works. Forged documents implicating Cuban leaders, fake news stories, and even staged incidents involving Cuban "defectors" were all on the table. The aim was to rile up the American public and the international community, fanning the flames of anti-Cuban sentiment. Why didn't Operation Northwoods work? It's one thing to concoct a plan, but it's an entirely different beast to get it approved and put into action. Turns out, that was the fate of Operation Northwoods. The proposal was too audacious even for the high-stakes game of Cold War politics. When Gen. Lemnitzer presented the plan to Defense Secretary Robert McNamara, McNamara greeted it with less than enthusiasm. In turn, he chose not to endorse it. President John F. Kennedy was likewise appalled. Known for his charisma and political savvy, JFK was also a veteran of World War II and deeply aware of the ethical dimensions of warfare. A deceptive plan against the American public was too much for him. It could cause loss of life and justify war against Cuba. So, he fired Lemnitzer that year. General Maxwell Taylor took his place as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The documents detailing Operation Northwoods were immediately classified, locked away in the vaults of government secrecy. There they remained for decades, a sort of Pandora's Box that many hoped would never see the light of day. Yet, they eventually did. In 1997, these shocking plans were finally declassified and released to the public. The unveiling came as part of a larger trove of documents related to the assassination of JFK, and they were first noted in James Bamford's book "Body of Secrets." The revelation sent ripples across the nation, igniting controversies and debates about governmental ethics, military oversight, and the very principles upon which the United States was founded. Boston25 drone footage shows the catastrophic damage to the Morse Street Bridge in Norwood. On Thursday afternoon a cement truck crashed into it and pushed the railroad bridge about five feet. Its basically almost falling off. Its pretty intense, said Michael Rice who works nearby. Ive seen about 50 trucks hit the bridge, but none have moved it. They werent cement mixers. James Kelly, known as the towns inspector, has lived nearby for more than 50 years and has seen far more than 50 crashes. It makes a lot of noise, and we all come over here and have a little get together in, said Kelly. He hit that at a good speed. He must have been trying to get up his speed to go through the light. Its an old, narrow bridge with a particularly low clearance of 9-feet-11-inches. Boston 25 did a report three years ago on the high number of crashes into the bridge. The police chief spoke to the town about the problem, but construction was too expensive. He urged drivers to pay attention to the signage. Mostly its rental trucks at the end of the month. Its moving day, they run down and get the rental truck come whipping over the hill and bang, said Kelly. CSX owns the freight rail. These days it is hardly used with only customers on the line. Its unclear what will happen to the rail line now. Wicked old, said Kelly. Usually, it sounds like an explosion and usually the bridge wins. But this time? The bridge did not win. The bridge did not win. CSX said they are working on a statement. The driver was taken to the hospital as a precaution. He was cited for failing to abide by the signs. State Police are investigating the accident. 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 Vice President Kamala Harris will be in South Florida on Thursday afternoon. That means a chance for heavier traffic than usual. Harris will stop at the main campus of Florida International University in West Miami-Dade as part of her nationwide Fight for Our Freedoms college tour. She will arrive at Miami International Airport at 1:30 p.m. from Washington, D.C., and begin the moderated conversation at 2:30 p.m. Then Harris will travel to Miami Shores to speak at a President Biden campaign reception at 6 p.m. Shes expected to depart from MIA at 7 p.m. Heres where to expect delays and maybe even closed lanes or roads as the vice presidential motorcade travels through Miami-Dade County. Heading to FIU To leave the Miami airport, Harris motorcade could get on State Road 836. Then there are two possibilities: The motorcade will merge onto Floridas Turnpike and get off at Tamiami Trail, Southeast Eighth Street, to reach FIUs campus, were the event will be at the Ocean Bank Convocation Center. Or the motorcade will exit 836, the Dolphin Expressway, at Tamiami Trail, taking the street to the FIU campus. The campaign event To head to Miami Shores, the vice presidents motorcade will likely get back on 836 and merge onto northbound I-95. Possible exits in the Miami Shores area include: Northwest 95th Street Northwest 103rd Street Northwest 119th Street Back to the Miami airport To return to Miami International, the motorcade will probably go south on I-95, merge onto State Road 112 west, the Airport Expressway, and head straight into the airport. Volunteers help assemble an 80% scale replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall at Fort Reno in El Reno, Oklahoma. The wall will be on display Sept. 28, 29 and 30. EL RENO A smaller-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall will be on display at the former U.S. Army cavalry post of Fort Reno. The American Veterans Traveling Tribute wall is an 80% scale replica of the memorial in Washington, D.C., standing eight feet tall at the center and covering 360 feet. The names of 990 Oklahoma servicemembers who died in the war are on the wall. The wall was being erected Wednesday, and an opening ceremony will be at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, featuring active-duty soldiers presenting the colors. The wall will be open to the public at the Fort Reno parade grounds until Saturday, Sept. 30. Gates will be open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day, and the U.S. Cavalry Association at Fort Reno will also be holding its annual Bivouac and National Cavalry Competition. There also will be 75 panels, called the Cost of Freedom Tribute, with the names of those who died serving in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait, and the first responders who died in 9/11. Bill Tempero , president of the U.S. Cavalry Association at Fort Reno, said even for those who don't know someone on the wall, it can be a meaningful experience to attend. "It's just giving thanks for the people who gave their lives for our freedom," Tempero said. "We can't forget them." This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Vietnam War memorial wall replica on display at Fort Reno in Oklahoma Royal palaces in Seoul will be open to the public for free during the extended Chuseok holiday from Thursday to Wednesday, according to the Cultural Heritage Authority (CHA). Four palaces from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) Gyeongbok, Changdeok, Deoksu and Changgyeong will be open during the six-day period, the CHA said. Royal tombs of the dynasty, which are scattered around Seoul and the surrounding cities, and Jongmyo Shrine, where Joseon-era royal ancestral tablets are enshrined, will also be free of charge during the traditional holiday. Visitors to Gyeongbok and Deoksu palaces can explore new buildings that have been recently opened to the public after extensive restoration. Gyejodang, a part of Gyeongbok Palace where the Joseon crown princes attended to state affairs and hosted banquets, opened to the public last week for the first time in 110 years after six years of restoration work. Built in 1443 during King Sejong's reign, the original Gyejodang was completely destroyed by the Japanese colonial government in around 1910. Dondeokjeon, a historic Western-style building in Deoksu Palace used as a royal guesthouse during the Korean Empire (1897-1910), is now available for visiting after six years of restoration to its original form. The two-story building, known to have been first built during the reign of Emperor Gojong around 1901, was used mostly as a reception hall and a place to meet foreign guests. It was also a historic place where his son, Emperor Sunjong, took the throne in 1907. (Yonhap) American soldier Travis King arrived back on U.S. soil Thursday, according to a U.S. official, two months after he sprinted into North Korea across the heavily fortified border separating North from South Korea. The U.S. official was not authorized to speak publicly. King, a private in the U.S. Army, landed in San Antonio, Texas, according to a U.S. defense official who also was not authorized to speak publicly. Video published by CNN appears to show King being escorted off the plane. American soldier Travis King: After North Korea expulsion he's 'happy' to be going home In this photo taken in Seoul on August 16, 2023, a man walks past a television showing a news broadcast featuring a photo of US soldier Travis King (C), who ran across the border into North Korea while part of a tour group visiting the Demilitarized Zone on South Korea's border on July 18. North Korea has decided to expel US soldier Travis King, who was detained after crossing the border from the South in July, the KCNA state news agency said on September 27. Senior White House officials said Wednesday that King's release was secured with the help of Sweden and China, though North Korea said it expelled King after completing an investigation into what it described as a defection motivated by "racial discrimination" and "inequality existing within American society." King ran into North Korea on July 18 following his release from a South Korea prison on an assault conviction. He was supposed to be going to Fort Bliss, Texas, where he faced the possibility of further U.S. military disciplinary action. Instead, King joined a civilian tour of a border village between the two Koreas. After crossing into North Korea, he became the first American confirmed to be detained in the reclusive country in nearly five years. San Antonio is home to Brooke Army Medical Center. Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl was treated there after he was released by his Taliban captors in Afghanistan in 2014. Contributing: Maureen Groppe This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Travis King arrives back in U.S. from North Korea Beachgoers at Treasure Islands Sunset Beach had to be attentive while walking along the shoreline. A precarious 4-foot ledge separated gulf waters from high sand dunes up the beach. That was before Hurricane Idalias surge washed out the vegetation that was holding the dunes together, according to Tyler Payne, the citys mayor. Its not just damaged, Payne said. Theyve just been totally devastated. Dunes are the first line of defense against intense storms. They protect coastal developments from surge and wind. In the case of Treasure Island, dunes shield public infrastructure, parks and private homes from encroaching waters. Last week, Treasure Island closed access to Sunset Beach for emergency dune restoration as part of a $21 million county-led project. Work started over the weekend, and each day, about 200 trucks have been pouring sand across Sunset Beach. For the price of $6 million, the equivalent of about 12 Olympic-size swimming pools of sand will be brought to the Treasure Island beach over the coming weeks. Restoration has already wrapped up at the southern portion of Sunset Beach, according to Pinellas County Commissioner Kathleen Peters . The county obtained all the temporary construction easements it needed on the beachs south end, but holdouts on the north end mean the restoration project will skip nourishment on some properties. Payne said while this dune project will help patch up beaches, the city is still in a holding pattern with the Army Corps, over its decision to require permanent easement agreements to begin work on what officials say is badly needed beach renourishment. The decision requires full participation from landowners and has divided residents across coastal Pinellas, some of whom are wary of signing over property rights. This was just something that we are able to do in the meantime, while were waiting to figure out the full resolution on the beach nourishment, he said. Much of the citys troubles boil down to whats known as an erosion control line: a line drawn in the sand that delineates the property boundary between public beach land and upland private property. Before the city can start asking residents for these permanent easement signatures, the Florida Department of Environmental Protections must first demarcate Sunset Beachs property lines. The Army Corps should be able to give us a list of the properties that need easements on the north side, but they still havent done that because of the issue down in Sunset Beach, Payne said. Treasure Islands city manager asked for the list of properties requiring easements but is still waiting to hear back from the Army Corps, Payne said. Still, Payne said moving forward with the Corps is the best path forward for the city. Payne said all the city can do is cross our fingers that we can get 100% of the easements signed. If there are holdouts among homeowners with properties requiring permanent easements, Payne said he hopes the Corps will be flexible in its rule-making. If the Army Corps doesnt change their position, then were going to have to figure it out on our own, Payne said. In the meantime, Pinellas County is moving ahead with its own project to help replace dunes washed away by Idalia. Once restoration on Sunset Beach wraps up, Peters said the county will start work on Sunshine Beach, on the northern end of Treasure Island. A second restoration crew started work at Pass-A-Grille Beach on Wednesday, Peters said. In October, work will start from Clearwater south through Belleair Beach. A construction worker in San Francisco died Thursday after a trench collapsed under a sidewalk on him, trapping him under an estimated eight to ten feet of dirt and concrete, fire officials said. More than 50 firefighters spent over two hours trying to rescue the buried worker in the Lower Haight neighborhood, but he did not survive, San Francisco Fire Department Lt. Jonathan Baxter confirmed. Unfortunately, two hours into this incident, we are naming this a fatal incident, Baxter told the press on Thursday. After being evaluated by our paramedics and department physician, again, unfortunately, the individual did not survive the injuries associated to this. Baxter said the construction site will be turned over to the proper investigating authorities to determine what happened. The fire department is expected to remain at the construction site for an undisclosed amount of time to ensure the safety. The construction site sits in the Lower Haight neighborhood in the area of Oak and Divisadero streets. Baxter said the area is a heavily traversed corridor, and asked the public to avoid the area. The rescue has a lot of requirements to ensure the safety of the victim and the firefighters and rescue workers on site, he said. The fire department later posted online that they had reached the victim and their rescue mission has turned into a recovery. The department said that residents in the area might experience temporary interruptions of utility services. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A former Texas state trooper accused of sexually assaulting two women while on duty has been sentenced to more than 40 years in prison, federal officials say. Investigators say Lee Ray Boykin Jr., 34, used his authority to strike fear into his victims and coerce them to perform sexual acts, according to a Sept. 27 news release from the U.S. Attorneys Office in the Southern District of Texas. Boykin targeted both victims during traffic stops, officials said. In one instance, Boykin took a woman riding in her friends car to a secluded parking lot, falsely accused her of being a prostitute and said he would arrest her unless she gave him oral sex, officials said. When it was over, Boykin put his hand on his gun and ordered her to run, according to the release. In a second assault, Boykin made another woman get into his vehicle and told her she had outstanding traffic warrants, officials said. He drove her to the same empty parking lot where she performed oral sex on him. He used his badge and all the power it afforded to force himself onto two vulnerable women, U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani said, according to the release. Boykin targeted victims he believed would not report him and even thought he got away with it. He was wrong. In 2020, one of the women called the Houston Police Department and reported what happened to her, and an investigation was launched, KTRK reported. Charges of aggravated sexual assault were brought against Boykin and, appearing before a judge to determine his bond, Boykin said he has a wife and two children, the outlet reported. A jury found Boykin guilty during a four-day trial in January 2023, but sentencing was recently handed down by U.S. District Judge George C. Hanks. Your crocodile tears do not impress me, Hanks said, according to the release. Boykin was sentenced to 43 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, officials said. This sentence sends a message that we will pursue anyone that poses a threat to our citizens, no matter what position they hold, Hamdani said. And thanks to the hard work of law enforcement, the position Boykin now holds is inmate. Woman fatally shot through jaw accuses friend in typed note before dying, Texas cops say Cop accused of pepper spraying, repeatedly shocking dog with Taser, OK officials say Deputys baby hospitalized after being left in vehicle for 3 hours, Texas sheriff says Teen wakes up to gunfire, screams as deputy fatally shoots wife, OK officials say A tropical bird native to Florida made an unusual visit to the opposite corner of the country, piquing the interest of bird enthusiasts and experts. The winged traveler, a limpkin a gangly and speckled swamp-dweller touched down in Barry County, Michigan, on Sept. 26, according to a Facebook post from the Historic Charlton Park. The park was busy this morning with birders out to spot this rare visitor, park officials said. As far as we know, this is the first sighting of one in Barry County, and possibly only the third sighting of one in Michigan! The brown-and-white bird can be seen wading in the Thornapple River and guzzling down snails in photos released by the park. What are Limpkins? While theyre widespread throughout Central America, limpkins are typically found in only two American states: Florida and Georgia, according to the National Audubon Society. The solitary birds wade in shallow marshes, rivers and ponds, foraging for large snails typically apple snails. The lanky, long-beaked birds are known for their piercing banshee wails, often heard at dawn or at night, according to the organization. Theyre named for the way they appear to limp across bumpy wetland terrain, according to the Florida Museum. Why are they in Michigan? This is now the third limpkin officially recorded in The Mitten State, Chad Machinski, a conservation manager with the Michigan Audubon Society, told McClatchy News in an email. The first two were spotted in 2022, while eight other states recorded their first limpkin sightings that year, Machinski said. The phenomenon was dubbed the Hot Limpkin Summer by the American Birding Association. Its difficult to pinpoint what exactly might cause the birds peculiar pit stops, Machinski said. But several factors could be at play. Limpkins can be spurred to wander if their wetland habitats dry up, Machinski said. Parts of Florida, including the Tampa area, are currently experiencing drought, which could trigger movement in limpkin populations. Florida, which has most of the United States Limpkins, has undergone significant land changes and has lost many freshwater wetlands, Machinski said. This may be putting a strain on the available habitat for Limpkins, causing the birds to be more exploratory. When it comes to new habitats, Michigan may be appealing as it is home to the Chinese mystery snail, a large invasive species, Machinski said. So when Limpkins turn up here, they do have a food source, Machinski said. Young limpkins may also become vagrants if they are pushed from their territories, requiring them to establish their own, Machinski said. While weather events such as hurricanes have buffeted birds like flamingos across the U.S., they are less likely to affect limpkin disbursement, Machinski said. Limpkins dont migrate, Machinski said. They are somewhat sedentary birds that are not as exposed to the complications of migration. Dwarf-like forest creature found inside hotel in Burundi turns out to be new species Shimmering item in dirt turns out to be rare 1,200-year-old treasure in Norway. See it Plane vanishes in thunderstorm over Kentucky. Massive search finds wreckage in woods Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau apologized on behalf of Canadas Parliament for inviting Nazi unit veteran Yaroslav Hunka to an event honoring President Volodymyr Zelensky, CBC reported on Sept. 27. "This was a mistake that has deeply embarrassed Parliament and Canada. All of us who were in this House on Friday regret deeply having stood and clapped even though we did so unaware of the context," Trudeau told reporters. 98-year-old Ukrainian-Canadian Yaroslav Hunka was invited as a guest of honor during a Ukrainian delegation's visit to Ottawa. Hunka is a World War II veteran but served in a voluntary unit under Nazi command. The event triggered widespread condemnation from Jewish, Polish, Roma, and LGBT communities, and from other marginalized groups that were targeted by Nazi forces during World War II. "It was a horrendous violation of the memory of the millions of people who died in the Holocaust," Trudeau said. Earlier this week Canadian House Speaker Anthony Rota apologized for inviting Hunka, and explained that the Ukrainian delegation had not been informed of his plans to honor the Nazi veteran. The 14th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS was formed in 1943. It was composed largely of Western Ukrainian and Slovak volunteers and was renamed the First Ukrainian Division before surrendering to the Western Allies in 1945. While some ethnic Ukrainians fought under the Nazi command, millions more served under the Soviet Red Army against Nazi Germany. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. (Bloomberg) -- Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said his country is deeply sorry for putting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in the position of unknowingly applauding a veteran who served in a Nazi unit. Most Read from Bloomberg This was a mistake that has deeply embarrassed parliament and Canada, Trudeau told reporters on Wednesday. I also want to reiterate how deeply sorry Canada is for the situation this put President Zelenskiy and the Ukrainian delegation in, he said. It is extremely troubling to think that this egregious error is being politicized by Russia and its supporters to provide false propaganda about what Ukraine is fighting for. The veteran, 98-year-old Yaroslav Hunka, had been invited to sit in the parliamentary gallery during Zelenskiys speech on Friday. Anthony Rota , the speaker of the House of Commons, issued the invitation and introduced Hunka as a Ukrainian Second World War veteran who fought for Ukrainian independence against the Russians. It was later revealed Hunka served with the 1st Galician division, a unit of the German militarys Waffen-SS. The story was quickly pounced on by Russian diplomats and state-controlled media. Russian President Vladimir Putin has sought to justify his invasion of Ukraine as aiming to de-Nazify the country, even though Zelenskiy himself is Jewish. Rota profusely apologized for the invitation, stressing that neither Trudeau nor Zelenskiy was aware of it ahead of time. On Tuesday, Rota announced he would resign as speaker over the fiasco. Trudeau said everyone who stood and applauded Hunka did so unaware of the context. It was a horrendous violation of the memory of the millions of people who died in the Holocaust, and it was deeply, deeply painful for Jewish people. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. A top adviser to former President Trumps 2024 campaign argued Wednesday that the GOP should end the primary debates to focus attention on defeating President Biden. Chris LaCivita , who is also a Republican strategist, said in a tweet toward the end of the second Republican presidential debate that it was as boring and inconsequential as the first debate and that nothing said would change the fact that Trump dominates the primary field. The [Republican National Committee] should immediately put an end to any further primary debates so we can train our fire on Crooked Joe Biden and quit wasting time and money that could be going to evicting Biden from the White House, he said. The comment came after seven of Trumps competitors for the Republican nomination debated for the second time in the race. Trump skipped the debate, as he did for the first debate last month, and instead held a rally speaking to autoworkers in a suburb of Detroit amid the United Auto Workers (UAW) strike. Trump has remained the clear front-runner in the race, building up a lead of 30 points or more in many polls. He has pointed to his significant lead in polls as his reason for skipping the debates. A third debate is scheduled for early November in Miami. Trump has suggested that his Republican opponents should debate for the opportunity to be his running mate in the general election. LaCivita argued ahead of the first debate that it was an audition to be part of Trumps second term. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Washington Former President Donald Trump 's legal team asked a federal judge Thursday to postpone filing deadlines by 60 days in the special counsel's 2020 election-related case against him, citing the "numerous novel and complex legal issues" the prosecution presents. Attorneys for Trump filed a motion to Washington, D.C. federal Judge Tanya Chutkan exactly a month after she set an October 9 deadline for any pretrial motions the parties might want to file. In federal trials, prosecutors and defense attorneys submit written arguments to the court about legal issues ranging from concerns about the investigation to attempts to dismiss the case. The court then sets time limits for responses to those filings, usually allowing ample time for a response and other litigation. As a result, any changes to the schedule generally result in trial delays. In this case, Trump's attorneys have urged Chutkan to move the Oct. 9 deadline by two months to Dec. 9, 2023 which would move the initial due date for raising primary legal issues to under three months before the trial is currently set to begin, on March 4, 2024. Special counsel Jack Smith charged Trump in August with four counts tied to his alleged efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election, including conspiracy to defraud the U.S. and conspiracy to obstruct Congress' work on Jan. 6, 2021. Trump pleaded not guilty, has denied wrongdoing and has characterized the prosecution as politically motivated. "This case is the first of its kind and concerns many legal questions of first impression," Trump's attorneys wrote in their filing Thursday. They said they needed the extension to "finalize several" motions, including "motions to dismiss relating to executive immunity, failure to state a claim, and improper conduct by the Special Counsel during the grand jury process and in charging decisions." "Each of these motions will be extensive," the legal team wrote, arguing the complex legal theories require more time to brief. During previous hearings before Chutkan, Trump attorney John Lauro had indicated he would file a "unique and extensive motion" dealing with executive immunity and said he planned to raise First Amendment issues. Lauro also said in media interviews that Trump's team might try to move the prosecution outside of D.C. While Chutkan has yet to rule on Trump's current motion for delay, she indicated during an Aug. 28 hearing that while she views the prosecution of the former president as historic, she does not see too many novel legal questions that needed to be addressed. The special counsel's office opposes the requested delay, according to Trump's filing. A spokesman for Smith declined to comment. The former president's defense attorneys also told Chutkan in their Thursday filing that they had begun to review 13 million pages of evidence provided to them by the Justice Department "while operating under an unprecedented trial setting mere months from the time of indictment" and needed more time to review their relevance. Trump's request for more time came just a day after Chutkan rejected his motion asking the judge to recuse herself from the case altogether. The judge wrote Wednesday that her comments condemning the Jan. 6 attack during sentencing hearings for defendants connected to the Capitol breach, which Trump raised as disqualifying, "do not manifest a deep-seated prejudice that would make fair judgment impossible the standard for recusal based on statements with intrajudicial origins." On Thursday, Smith's team pushed back on another Trump request to delay proceedings, this time in the special counsel's case in Florida in which the former president and two aides are charged with unlawful retention of sensitive government records and obstruction. The former president last week asked federal Judge Aileen Cannon in the Southern District of Florida to amend a pretrial schedule connected to the review of classified information in the case, arguing there are "significant unresolved disputes" related to the evidence that require more time to litigate. Prosecutors accused the defense of trying to "intentionally derail both pre-trial proceedings and this Court's trial date" and revealed that five national defense documents that Trump is accused of illegally retaining are not authorized to be stored in the secure facility currently established for the review of sensitive documents in the case. The agencies that own the records, the Justice Department wrote, asked that they be removed until a more suitable location for their review is established. Trump and his co-defendants pleaded not guilty in that case earlier this year. Gen. Milley responds to Trump post accusing general of treason | 60 Minutes North Korea says it will expel Travis King, U.S. soldier who ran across border Arrest warrent issued for suspect in killing of 26-year-old Baltimore tech CEO Hong Kong: UK's latest accusations denounced The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today rejected what it condemned as baseless remarks, slander and smears made by the UK and other countries at an event titled Media Freedom in Hong Kong. In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government said it strongly disapproves of and firmly rejects repeated remarks made by the UK, together with other countries, regarding human rights in Hong Kong. Highlighting that such remarks amount to political manipulation that disregards and twists facts, the statement condemned the attempts by countries to interfere with Hong Kongs law-based governance and undermine its rule of law, prosperity and stability, adding that these attempts are doomed to failure. The Hong Kong SAR Government urged the countries concerned to discern facts from fallacies, respect international law and the basic norms governing international relations, and immediately stop interfering in Hong Kong matters, which it stressed are purely Chinas internal affairs. The statement added that the Hong Kong National Security Law (NSL), promulgated by the Hong Kong SAR Government soon after it was enacted by the countrys central authorities in 2020, has effectively safeguarded national security in Hong Kong, allowing order to be restored in a transition from chaos to governance while giving better protection to peoples rights and freedoms. Furthermore, the statement outlined that since the return of Hong Kong to the motherland, Hong Kong residents have enjoyed rights and freedoms under the Basic Law, the Hong Kong Bill of Rights Ordinance and other relevant laws. It added that the NSL clearly stipulates that human rights shall be respected and protected in the safeguarding of national security in Hong Kong, and that the rights and freedoms its residents enjoy under the Basic Law, and under the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil & Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social & Cultural Rights, as applied to the city including freedoms of the press, speech and publication shall be protected in accordance with the law. The statement said that following the NSLs implementation, the media landscape in Hong Kong remains vibrant, and that the medias freedom to comment on and criticise government policies remaining uninhibited as long as it is not in violation of the law. The Hong Kong SAR Government stressed that Hong Kong is underpinned by the rule of law and adheres to the principle that laws must be obeyed and lawbreakers held accountable. Any suggestion that people or organisations from certain backgrounds or occupations should be immune from legal sanctions for their illegal acts is tantamount, it added, to granting them privileges to break the law. Emphasising that Hong Kong is advancing from stability to prosperity, the statement reiterated that the city steadfastly safeguards national sovereignty as well as national security and development interests, and faithfully upholds the principle of one country, two systems. It added that the Hong Kong SAR Government will resolutely, fully and faithfully implement the NSL and further strengthen Hong Kongs legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security to prevent, suppress and punish, in accordance with the law, acts and activities that endanger national security. This story has been published on: 2023-09-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Conference discusses Belt and Road economic information sharing Xinhua) 09:03, September 28, 2023 Fu Hua, president of Xinhua News Agency, speaks at the 2nd Conference of the Belt and Road Economic Information Partnership and 2023 Shanghai Entrepreneurs Conference for the Belt and Road High-quality Development, in east China's Shanghai, Sept. 27, 2023. Nearly 300 delegates from government units, industry associations, media outlets and companies attended the event on Wednesday, discussing economic information sharing to facilitate the construction of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). (Xinhua) SHANGHAI, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- A meeting was held on Wednesday in east China's Shanghai to discuss economic information sharing to facilitate the construction of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Nearly 300 delegates from government units, industry associations, media outlets and companies attended the 2nd Conference of the Belt and Road Economic Information Partnership and 2023 Shanghai Entrepreneurs Conference for the Belt and Road High-quality Development. Speaking at the event, Fu Hua, president of Xinhua News Agency, said the news agency will continue to report the construction of the BRI by various countries, strengthen the construction of the sharing network and better play the role of a national high-end think tank. Xinhua will strive to provide better information services and intellectual support for the construction of the BRI, he said. Delegates also exchanged views on BRI-related financial support, green development and others. Jointly established by Xinhua and its partners both at home and abroad in 2019, the Belt and Road Economic Information Partnership has provided economic information for governments and enterprises of BRI countries over the past years. Its members have grown from 33 to 56, including news agencies, research institutes and business associations from 37 countries and regions. Delegates pose for a group photo at the launching ceremony of the "BREIP Trip" program during the 2nd Conference of the Belt and Road Economic Information Partnership and 2023 Shanghai Entrepreneurs Conference for the Belt and Road High-quality Development in east China's Shanghai, Sept. 27, 2023. Nearly 300 delegates from government units, industry associations, media outlets and companies attended the event on Wednesday, discussing economic information sharing to facilitate the construction of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). (Xinhua/Wang Xiang) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) An American soldier who crossed the inter-Korean border into North Korea in July is in U.S. custody after his release by the reclusive regime, senior U.S. administration officials said Wednesday, capping an intense diplomatic operation facilitated by Sweden and China. Speaking at a press briefing, the officials said Pvt. Travis King has been transferred out of North Korea across the border with China, and that he appears to be "in good health and good spirits" ahead of his return home. The announcement of his release came shortly after the North's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Pyongyang decided to "expel" him following an investigation, during which it said he confessed to having "illegally intruded" into the North's territory. King crossed the military demarcation line separating Korea during a tour to the Joint Security Area in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) on July 18 a rare unauthorized trip that led to his detention in the North. "We are very pleased to announce this morning ... the U.S. government has successfully facilitated Pvt. Travis King's departure from the DPRK," a senior official said on condition of anonymity. DPRK stands for the North's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. "We are grateful to the Swedish government for its diplomatic role in serving as the protecting power for the United States in the DPRK and to the government of the People's Republic of China for its assistance in facilitating the safe transit of Pvt. King," the official added. Having left the North, King arrived in the Chinese border city of Dandong and flew to another Chinese city, Shenyang, and then to Osan Air Base in South Korea, where he was transferred to the Department of Defense, before departing for the U.S., according to the Department of State. Hours earlier, the KCNA said North Korean authorities conducted an investigation, where he said he had "ill feelings" about the U.S. military and society. "Travis King confessed that he illegally intruded into the territory of the DPRK as he harbored ill feeling against inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination within the U.S. army and was disillusioned about the unequal U.S. society," KCNA said in its English-language report. "The relevant organ of the DPRK decided to expel Travis King." Earlier this month, the U.S. learned via Sweden that the North wanted to release King, another administration official said, calling Sweden as the "primary interlocutor" that helped King in being released. China helped facilitate King's safe transit across the border and played a "very constructive role," but not a mediating one, according to the officials. Asked whether there were any concessions to the North in return for King's release, the first official said, "None." "Our focus right now is on Pvt. King's health and ensuring that he receives all appropriate support before reuniting with his family," the official said. Pyongyang's decision to set King free "without concessions" raised cautious hopes for the resumption of diplomacy as nuclear talks between Washington and Pyongyang have been stalled since 2019 following a no-deal summit in Hanoi in February that year. The officials reiterated Washington's willingness to reengage with Pyongyang. "The U.S. government remains very open to the possibility of diplomacy with the DPRK ... This incident to our minds demonstrate that keeping lines of communication open even when ties are strained is a really important thing to do and can deliver results," the official said. "We again stand by ready for any further diplomacy that might be possible." Asked to explain the next procedures facing King, a third official highlighted the government's priority on the soldiers' "reintegration." "Our focus right now is caring for him and his family and we'll work through all those administrative status questions following completion of his reintegration," the official said. Later in the day, U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan issued a statement extending his appreciation to Sweden and China for their diplomatic efforts. Pentagon press secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder also released a similar statement on King's release. The North first confirmed King's detention on Aug. 16 and claimed the U.S. soldier expressed willingness to seek refuge in the North or a third country. Shortly after the North's first confirmation of King's detention, the U.S. Department of Defense said the alleged comments by King could not be verified. Observers had said Pyongyang could seek to use King for propaganda purposes or as a bargaining chip to wring out concessions from Washington. King faced legal trouble during his service in South Korea. He was sentenced to labor in a South Korean prison workshop from May 24 to July 10 after failing to pay a fine for damaging a police patrol car last year. On Oct. 8, South Korean police apprehended King for assault at a nightclub in western Seoul. He reportedly did not cooperate with police officers demanding his personal information and kicked the door of their vehicle. King had been set to return to the United States on July 17, where he would have faced additional disciplinary action, however, he managed to evade boarding his flight at Incheon International Airport and was able to join a JSA tour the next day which provided him with the opportunity to cross the DMZ. (Yonhap) Former President Donald Trump, while speaking at a non-unionized automotive parts supplier in Michigan, criticized President Joe Biden for announcing that he would join United Auto Workers striking on the picket lines days after Trump made his intentions known about traveling to the midwest state. Biden came to Michigan to pose for photos at the picket line, as Trump put it, but its his policies that sent Michigan auto workers to the unemployment line. He only came after I announced that I would be here. You know he announced quite a bit later, Trump said at Drake Enterprises, about 30 minutes from Detroit. Biden revealed his plans last Fridayfour days after The New York Times reported that his predecessor was planning a trip of his own. He spoke for a few seconds, Trump added dismissively. Biden Campaign Trolls Trump, Airs Ads on Fox During GOP Debate Trump spent most of his speech criticizing the U.S. president, instead of his 2024 GOP candidate opponents who took to the stage for the second GOP primary debate in California moments after Trumps appearance. The former president had previously confirmed he would skip the event in favor of his Michigan trip, claiming his impressive lead in the polls meant there was no point. The auto industry, under Biden, was being assassinated, Trump claimed, arguing that the advance of electric vehicles will ultimately crush manufacturing in the state. On Tuesday, Biden became the first sitting president in U.S. history to join a picket line, telling the striking workers, The middle class built this country. And unions built the middle class. Thats a fact. Lets keep going. You deserve what youve earned, and youve earned a hell of a lot more than you get paid now. Biden had been invited by UAW President Shawn Fain, whose group had endorsed Biden in the lead-up to the 2020 election but has not yet given its support this time around mainly due to concerns over the presidents electric vehicle initiative. Yet Fain had even tougher words for Trump in an interview Tuesday. I see no point in meeting with him because I dont think the man has any bit of care about what our workers stand for, what the working class stands for, Fain said on CNN. He serves the billionaire class and thats whats wrong with this country. 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. Trump campaign calls on RNC to put an end to future debates to train our fire on Biden Chris LaCivita, an adviser to former President Trump, trashed the second GOP debate, calling on the Republican National Committee to nix future debate plans and back his candidate instead. Tonights GOP debate was as boring and inconsequential as the first debate, and nothing that was said will change the dynamics of the primary contest being dominated by President Trump, LaCivita said in a statement. The second debate on Wednesday night, which Trump chose to skip, was more chaotic than the first, marked by continuous cross-talk and moderators who struggled to control the conversation. For that reason, many considered Trump to be one of the events biggest winners even without attending. LaCivita cited Trumps large leads in primary polls in questioning whether further debates were necessary. President Trump has a 40- or 50-point lead in the primary election and a 10-point lead over Joe Biden in the general election, and its clear that President Trump alone can defeat Biden, he said. The RNC should immediately put an end to any further primary debates so we can train our fire on Crooked Joe Biden and quit wasting time and money that could be going to evicting Biden from the White House. General election polls have gone both ways, with some showing Trump with a lead and others preferring President Biden. A new poll from The Economist and YouGov, released Wednesday, showed Biden with a 5-point lead over the former president, an increase from last month. However, primary polls show Trump still has a large advantage over his GOP rivals. According to national polling averages, Trump holds about 54 percent support in the GOP primary, with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis trailing with 14 percent support and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley in third with about 6 percent support. LaCivita also signaled Trump will not attend the races third debate, scheduled for Nov. 8 in Miami. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Trump campaign targets Haley after debate: Hillary Clinton Is an Inspiration to Nikki Haley The Trump campaign lashed out at GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley after she performed well in the second primary debate Wednesday night. The campaign cited a 2012 interview where Haley, then governor of South Carolina, said then-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was an inspiration to her political career. The reason I actually ran for office is because of Hillary Clinton, she told The New York Times in an interview. Haley was referencing a speech the former first lady gave where she advocated for more women in politics. The former presidents campaign sent an email in which is listed several quotes from Haley. Among them was one at the top of the email that read, Hillary Clinton Is an Inspiration to Nikki Haley, quoting the Times article. Trumps team didnt provide commentary or context on Haleys decade-old remark, potentially an attempt to ding the rising candidate by associating her with Clinton who is still reviled in the Republican Party. Haley was considered one of Wednesday evenings top performers, readily clashing with other GOP hopefuls and standing her ground. She has been more openly critical of former President Trump in recent months, including on the stage by trashing his first-term policy on China. This is where President Trump went wrong, Haley said at the debate. He focused on trade with China. He didnt focus on the fact that they were buying up our farmland. He didnt focus on the fact that they were killing Americans. He didnt focus on the fact that they were stealing $600 billion in intellectual property. He didnt focus on the fact that they put a spy base off our shores in Cuba, she continued. They didnt focus enough on the fact that all of our law enforcement drones in America are Chinese, and weve got all these little surveillance cells. The Trump campaign also went after her support for Ukraine, saying she is focused on spending instead of finding a peaceful solution similar to the issue she criticized the former president for. At a campaign event last week, Haley said Trump was getting weak in knees on Ukraine during his presidency. He was thin-skinned and easily distracted. He didnt do anything on fiscal policy and really spent a lot of money, and were paying the price for it, she said. He used to be good on foreign policy, and now he has started to walk it back and get weak in the knees when it comes to Ukraine. The Trump campaign memo also lists a collection of old quotes from Haley praising former House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.), a common recent target of the former president, as well as previous statements where she praised the former president. The campaign did not provide attacks on other primary candidates. Haley moved into second place behind Trump in a New Hampshire primary poll this week, her strongest poll performance to date. The Haley campaign shot back at the attacks Thursday. I guess Donald Trump feels threatened by Nikki Haley, spokesman Ken Farnaso said in a statement. In a separate statement Wednesday night, Trump adviser Chris LaCivita trashed the debate, calling on the Republican Party to cancel future events and get behind the former president. Tonights GOP debate was as boring and inconsequential as the first debate, and nothing that was said will change the dynamics of the primary contest being dominated by President Trump, he said. The RNC should immediately put an end to any further primary debates so we can train our fire on Crooked Joe Biden and quit wasting time and money that could be going to evicting Biden from the White House. Trump who was notably absent from the debate, has signaled he likely wont attend the third GOP debate in Miami, either. The remaining candidates continue to fight for second place, and the former president still holds a large lead over the field. According to national polling averages, Trump has garnered about 54 percent support in the GOP primary field, with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis trailing at 14 percent and Haley in third with about 6 percent support. Updated at 9:56 a.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Former President Donald Trump once again railed against his 2024 Republican opponents from the comfort of his social media account on Wednesday, shunning the debate stage where seven other candidates gathered to appeal to voters. The former president blasted former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Truth Social soon after the Republican presidential primary debate finished. Both men used their airtime to criticize Trump, with Christie saying the party should drop him as its candidate, at one point speaking directly to Trump through the camera. DeSantis challenged Trump to appear on the debate stage, saying voters had a right to hear from anyone gunning for the White House. The Trump campaign went a step further after the debate ended, calling on the Republican National Committee to stop holding the debates because the match-ups are boring and inconsequential. President Trump has a 40- or 50-point lead in the primary election and a 10-point lead over Joe Biden in the general election, and its clear that President Trump alone can defeat Biden, campaign adviser Chris LaCivita said. (The referenced poll has been criticized, but the numbers against his fellow Republicans are in line with national polling data.) The RNC should immediately put an end to any further primary debates so we can train our fire on Crooked Joe Biden and quit wasting time and money that could be going to evicting Biden from the White House. Trump scheduled a prime-time speech at a Detroit auto parts factory as a distraction, much as he did with a Tucker Carlson interview released last month during the first GOP debate, which he also skipped. The GOP stage at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, shrunk to seven on Wednesday. Trump, who has said he doesnt need to debate because he is so far ahead in polls, remained the far-and-away front-runner, with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis a distant second. Wednesdays performance could prove influential among GOP donors, who have mostly waited to throw financial support behind any candidates. Despite his polling strength, the former president is set to have an unusually busy campaign season. Hes the subject of four separate criminal indictments and will likely spend much of next year in courtrooms. A judge issued another defeat to Trump this week, ruling in New Yorks civil case against him that the self-proclaimed tycoon committed fraud for years while building his real estate empire, regularly inflating the value of his assets. The decision stripped Trump from control of some of his properties in New York, a decision the former president called un-American and a very sad day. Few of Trumps GOP rivals have condemned the former presidents alleged lawbreaking, although that dam began to break on Wednesday. Related... A civil trial stemming from a multi-million dollar fraud lawsuit targeting Donald Trump, his adult sons and chief associates will likely proceed next week after a New York appeals court rejected a last-ditch attempt to stall the hearings amid a mountain of criminal and civil cases facing the former president. The two-page appellate court decision on 28 September dismissed Mr Trumps lawsuit against the judge presiding over his case in an effort to stall the civil trials start date on 2 October. A ruling comes just days after the judges blockbuster decision finding Mr Trump and others liable for more than a decade of fraud after a years-long investigation from the state attorney general. A bench trial could begin as soon as Monday. Judge Arthur F Engoron will preside without a jury. His scathing order on 26 September granted a partial judgment in favour of Letitia James, whose blockbuster lawsuit alleges Mr Trump and his business empire defrauded banks and insurers by grossly overvaluing assets and exaggerating his net worth on documents to secure deals and financing. Judge Engoron has ordered several of the former presidents licences to be rescinded, effectively upending his abilities to do business in the state. An independent monitor also will continue to oversee compliance with the order and Mr Trumps operations and liabilities to lenders, insurers and others. The judgment resolved key claims in the lawsuit, which the former presidents legal team has repeatedly tried to dismiss and delay, and delivered a significant legal blow to his campaign as he seeks the Republican nomination for president in 2024 while facing four separate criminal indictments and an upcoming civil trial for defamation. His legal team returned to court on Wednesday to determine the remaining issues in the case. Dont take this the wrong way, Trump attorney Christopher Kise asked the judge on Wednesday, but what in the courts mind does this trial look like? Ms Jamess office does not intend to drop any of the remaining counts in the case. In her only public statement following the judges decision, Ms James simply stated that Judge Engoron ruled in her favour, and we look forward to presenting the rest of our case at trial. Mr Trump who has repeatedly characterised the states chief prosecutor, who is Black, as a racist has called the judge deranged and denied any wrongdoing. Seven Republican presidential candidates but not frontrunner Donald Trump clashed over the Ukraine war, talked tough on immigration and bickered among themselves as they struggled to stand out as the clear alternative to the former president. Some belittled Trump. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie called him Donald Duck for skipping the debate. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said Trump was missing in action. But others were careful about distancing themselves from the former president, who has a huge poll lead over his rivals. They praised his efforts to crack down on illegal immigration and cut taxes, while only gently criticizing how federal debt soared during his administration. None of the contenders has broken out of the pack as the obvious number two, and for some, this debate could be a last chance. The next debate is scheduled for November, and the requirements to be included will be tougher. Time is running out for low-polling candidates to raise more money to remain viable, and the first-in-the-nation Iowa caucus is scheduled for January 15. After the first debate, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley s more measured approach and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy s tough Trump-like talk got some attention. So did DeSantis and Sen. Tim Scott , R-South Carolina, but the focus was on their more languid performance. This time, Scott came out aggressive and remained combative throughout the two-hour debate, at one point getting into a heated disagreement with Haley. They fought over the South Carolina gas tax and about $50,000 worth of curtains purchased by the State Department when Haley was the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations during the Trump administration. Scott said Haley bought the expensive curtains. Haley told Scott you got bad information., as they were already in place when she arrived. Do your homework Tim because Obama bought those curtains, she told Scott. They were bought during the Obama administration. Did she return them, Scott asked. Its the State Departments Did you send them back? Youre the one who works in Congress. You get it done, Haley snapped back. DeSantis calmly and methodically recited what he called Floridas economic and educational achievements. He reminded the audience he would be the first president since George H.W. Bush, elected in 1988, to have served in an overseas war. And he pushed back at Trump on abortion policy. Trump last week said Floridas ban on abortions after six weeks of pregnancy was a terrible thing. DeSantis, who signed the ban into law, said Trump should be here explaining his comment to try to say pro-life protections are somehow a terrible thing. Trump in the spotlight Trump still got a piece of Wednesdays spotlight. At virtually the same time the candidates were debating at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, Trump was speaking at a non-union auto supplier in Clinton Township, Michigan. The United Auto Workers strike against the Big Three automakers is in its 12th day, and President Joe Biden joined their picket line Tuesday. Trump was speaking in Macomb County, long a blue-collar bellwether where Republicans have made strong inroads in once-solid Democratic territory, a voting bloc crucial to winning the swing state of Michigan. He has made a distinction between being pro-blue collar worker and not pro-union though he did urge union members in the audience to convince the UAW to endorse him. In California, Trumps opponents picked up the pro-worker theme. Ramaswamy talked about having a lot of sympathy for the workers. Former North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum insisted that Bidens policies had led to worker discontent, and this strike is at Joe Bidens feet. Battle over Ukraine The most fiery exchanges among the candidates involved Ukraine, a reflection of the schism among Republicans in Congress over whether to continue or limit U.S. aid to the embattled country. We are not going to have a blank check, DeSantis said. I watch these guys in Washington, D.C.they dont care about the American people. Spend the money on combating fentanyl deaths, on improving the quality of life in this country, he said. We have to level with the American people on Ukraine, Ramaswamy said. Just because (Russian leader Vladimir) Putin is an evil dictator does not mean Ukraine is good..we need a reasonable peace plan to end the war. Scott angrily disagreed. The nations vital interest is served by degrading the Russian military, he said. Stopping the Russians not only helps make the U.S. safer, but we keep our troops at home. And, said Haley, a former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, a win for Russia is a win for China. Overall, though, there was little disagreement with Trump on most topics. Tough immigration talk They all vowed to get tough with border security. Ramasawmy cited what he called lax border protections as a reason for more crime. DeSantis vowed to use the U.S. military to go after Mexican drug cartels. There was some irony in the tough immigration talk, since Reagan in 1986 signed into law a reform bill that helped some undocumented immigrants enter the country. And a broad bipartisan coalition in 2013 passed legislation that provided a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. It got nowhere in the House. Christie was sympathetic to reforms 13 years ago as governor of New Jersey. He said at the debate the border situation had changed, and the priority today is law enforcement first. Former Vice President Mike Pence defended the still-unfinished border wall and insisted hed take strong steps to secure the border. I know how to do it, he said. The fentanyl crisis became part of this debate. Haley claimed that more people in this country have been killed by fentanyl than were killed in the Iraq, Afghanistan and Vietnam wars combined, which is true. The debaters insisted they had ways to reduce the national debt. Among Scotts ideas is a constitutional amendment requiring a balanced budget a plan that has been debated for decades but gone nowhere. Haley pointed out that Congress annually cant balance its budget. Its inability to pass any budget is threatening to shut down much of the government Saturday. Where have you been? Haley asked, as Scott tried to interrupt her. Burgum said he could cut the size of the federal government because hes shrunk the size of government in North Dakota. As a businessman, he said, this is totally possible. Former President Trump slammed Chris Christie following the former New Jersey governors criticism of him during Wednesday nights GOP presidential debate in Southern California. Christie, a fellow 2024 Republican presidential candidate and frequent critic of the former president, took several jabs at Trump throughout the debate, including calling him out for skipping the event. Youre not here tonight, not because of polls and not because of your indictments. Youre not here tonight because youre afraid of being on this stage and defending your record, Christie said, speaking to Trump through the camera. Christie went on to accuse the former president, who is leading the Republican primary field, of ducking out of campaign-related events. Trump notably skipped the first GOP debate, held last month in Milwaukee, opting instead for an interview with political commentator Tucker Carlson. Youre ducking these things. And let me tell you whats going to happen: You keep doing that, no one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore, were gonna call you Donald Duck, Christie told Trump from the debate stage. Christie sends message to Trump: Were gonna call you Donald Duck Trump fired back against Christie in a Truth Social post, calling the former governor a bum. Chris Christie is talking about the job he did as Governor. He had a 9% approval rating. N.J. wanted to throw the bum out, Trump wrote on Truth Social. He added, Also, I built almost 500 miles of Wall (not 50, Sloppy Chris!), got Mexico to give us 28,000 soldiers (free of charge!), and had the safest and best Border in U.S. History, with record low drugs coming in! Trump has consistently cited his wide lead in the polls as his reason for not joining the other 2024 Republican contenders on stage. As counterprogramming to the second debate Wednesday night, he delivered a speech to autoworkers in Michigan. Trump rips into Biden as he seeks to woo Michigan autoworkers For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. (Bloomberg) -- US District Judge Tanya Chutkan refused to step down from the election-obstruction case in Washington against Donald Trump , rebuffing the former presidents claim that her past comments about him jeopardize his right to a fair trial. Most Read from Bloomberg The judge rejected a contention by Trumps legal team that shed expressed opinions on whether he should be prosecuted or prejudged his guilt. She wrote that the comments at issue in Trumps recusal motion were about arguments raised by individuals charged in the Jan. 6 attack on the US Capitol, and that the former presidents inferential leap is not reasonable in light of the relevant facts, record, and law. The statements certainly do not manifest a deep-seated prejudice that would make fair judgment impossible, Chutkan wrote in the 20-page opinion. It isnt unusual for Trump to accuse judges of being biased against him, and hes failed in previous attempts to force recusals in his many legal fights. Federal judges have wide discretion in deciding when to step aside, and they rarely do when there isnt a direct financial or personal relationship at issue. Trump wont be able to challenge Chutkans order right away, but if convicted in the case, he could raise his bias claims again to appeal the verdict. In a statement Wednesday, Trumps campaign said it believed a judge should be disqualified whenever a reasonable person might conclude that the court is biased, such as is the situation here. Chutkans decision comes as she weighs a request from Special Counsel John Jack Smith for a partial gag order, with the prosecutor arguing that Trumps public statements attacking the citizens of the District of Columbia, the court, prosecutors, and prospective witnesses threaten to undermine the integrity of these proceedings. Prosecutors cited a slew of Trumps social-media posts, including one where he described Chutkan as a biased, Trump Hating Judge. Read More: Trump Prosecutor Calls for Partial Gag Order on Ex-President Trumps lawyers, in seeking the recusal, cited Chutkans comments in criminal cases against people charged with participating in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol. Thousands of the former presidents supporters descended on the building as lawmakers met to certify President Joe Biden as the winner of the 2020 presidential election. Trumps team argued the judge created a perception of prejudgment incompatible with our justice system when she said Trump and other prominent Republicans who promoted false election-fraud claims hadnt been charged so far. Prosecutors countered that Chutkan and other judges presiding over Jan. 6 cases made those types of statements in the context of rejecting efforts by defendants to deflect blame to the former president and his allies. They argued that Trump was relying on suggestion and innuendo to insinuate something sinister in the court simply doing its job and that there was no evidence of bias. The case is US v. Trump, 23-cr-00257, US District Court, District of Columbia (Washington). (Updates with Trump campaign comment) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. SIMI VALLEY, Calif. With less than four months to go before the first ballots are cast in the 2024 GOP presidential election, the candidates not named Donald Trump likely squandered their second nationally televised opportunity to make up ground against the coup-attempting front-runner. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said many people in his state dont have health insurance because Floridians dont believe in welfare. Biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy promised to deport the children of undocumented immigrants, notwithstanding the Constitutions promise of birthright citizenship. And former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley said she felt a little dumber every time she was around him. But none of the seven onstage bothered to make much of a case for why they were better suited for the nomination than a man facing 91 felony counts and four criminal indictments, who nevertheless appears to have a solid hold on the partys primary voting base. Indeed, most of the limited criticism the debaters could manage against Trump was over his decision not to show up onstage for the second time in a row. Donald Trump is missing in action. He should be on this stage tonight, said DeSantis. Youre not here tonight, not because of polls, and not because of your indictments. Youre not here tonight, because youre afraid of being on the stage and defending your record, said former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, trying to goad the absent Trump with insults. You keep doing that. No one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore. Were going to call you Donald Duck. Even in the final question, when the moderators raised the issue of Trump dominating the polling, only Christie the sole candidate to have made Trumps behavior after his 2020 defeat a central theme of his campaign used the opportunity to say the ex-president should not be the nominee. He needs to be off the island. He needs to be taken out of this process, Christie said. Republicans hoping for the debate to shift the course of the race said it did not happen. Nothing changes, said Sarah Longwell, a GOP consultant who has been working against Trump since he began running in 2015. Totally expected, said former congressman Joe Walsh, who ran against Trump in the 2020 primary because of his authoritarian tendencies. But still pathetic. Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis participate in the second Republican primary debate ahead of the 2024 election. Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis participate in the second Republican primary debate ahead of the 2024 election. Haley at one point criticized Trump for focusing on getting a trade deal with China rather than protecting American intellectual property from theft and stopping the use of Chinese drones by U.S. law enforcement. And former Vice President Mike Pence criticized Trump for wanting to consolidate executive branch power in a second term, rather than devolving it to the states. But for the most part, all of the criticism from the candidates was focused on Democratic President Joe Biden and, more often, each other, like when South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott attacked Haley for the cost of the curtains in her government-paid residence when she was Trumps UN ambassador. North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum criticized the others for only recently coming up with an oil and natural gas drilling plan that his state already does. The only major policy disagreement onstage Wednesday, just as in the first debate last month, was U.S. aid to Ukraine in its fight against Russias invasion. Once again, Ramaswamy and DeSantis said they would end assistance, while Pence, Haley and Christie warned that appeasing Putin would not work. The naivete on this stage is extraordinary, Christie said. Trump campaign staff said the performance vindicated his decision to once again skip. The debate changed absolutely nothing, said Chris LaCivita, a top campaign adviser. The trajectory of the race didnt change. The third debate is scheduled for Nov. 8 in Miami. Former US President and 2024 presidential hopeful Donald Trump gestures while speaking at Drake Enterprises, an automotive parts manufacturer and supplier, in Clinton, Michigan (AFP via Getty Images) Donald Trump skipped the second GOP debate to hold a rally for auto workers on strike in Michigan - but the crowd has come under suspicion after some attendees reportedly revealed they dont fit in that category. Mr Trump visited Drake Enterprises, a non-unionized auto parts factory, on Wednesday night while seven of his rivals in the 2024 election faced off in California. In a speech during his visit, Mr Trump claimed thousands of people had gathered to meet him in Michigan. But the composition of the audience is now under scrutiny after a report by The Detroit News claimed one attendee holding a union members for Trump sign admitted that she is not in a union, while another holding an auto workers for Trump sign said he was not an auto worker. The event drew a crowd of about 400-500 Trump supporters, according to The Detroit News, while Drake Enterprises only has around 150 employees. Auto workers are currently on strike in Detroit over pay and working conditions. President Joe Biden made history on Tuesday as the first US president to join a picket line when he visited members of the United Auto Workers union. Mr Biden was invited to visit the UAW members by the groups president, Shawn Fain, who has sometimes been critical of Mr Trump. Mr Fain refused to meet with Mr Trump during his Michigan visit, criticizing the GOP candidate as someone who serves the billionaire class and calling his appearance at the non-unionized facility a pathetic irony. During his visit, the former president went on an incoherent and inaccurate rant about electric cars, telling Drake Enterprises workers electric vehicles would be the death of the American car industry. He falsely claimed that EVs are actually bad for the environment. People have no idea how bad this is going to be for the environment, you know those batteries when they get rid of them, and lots of bad things happen, and when they dig it out of the ground to make them, is going to very bad for the environment, he claimed. Mr Biden and Mr Trumps visits to Michigan come as Republicans and Democrats alike focus on the electorally important Midwestern Rust Belt, where blue-collar workers such as UAW members form a vital voting bloc. Mr Trump poked fun at his GOP rivals during his speech, calling them job candidates in the presidential race. We are competing with the job candidates, they are all running for a job. They are all job candidates. They will do anything, Secretary of something, they even say VP. Has anyone seen a VP in that group? I dont think so, Mr Trump told the crowd. Mr Trump has refused to take part in any of the Republican presidential primary debates so far. The former president currently has a 42.2-point lead in the polls over Florida governor Ron DeSantis, according to Real Clear Politics. North Korea has stipulated a policy of strengthening its nuclear forces in its constitution at a key meeting, with leader Kim Jong-un said trilateral security cooperation between South Korea, the United States, and Japan poses "the worst actual threat." The decision was made at the ninth session of the 14th Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) held Tuesday and Wednesday, [articipated in by leader Kim's attendance, according to the North's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). At the session, the North unanimously decided to "supplement Article 58 of Chapter 4 of the Socialist Constitution" to ensure the country's right to existence and development, deter war and protect regional and global peace by rapidly developing nuclear weapons to a higher level, Kim was reported to have said. "The DPRK's nuclear force-building policy has been made permanent as the basic law of the state, which no one is allowed to flout with anything. This is a historic event that provided a powerful political lever for remarkably strengthening the national defense capabilities," he said in a speech at the session, using the acronym for North Korea's official name. At an SPA meeting in September last year, North Korea enacted a new "nuclear law" authorizing the preemptive use of nuclear arms, calling its status as a nuclear state "irreversible." In the speech, Kim said the establishment of what he called the "triangular military alliance" between the U.S., South Korea, and Japan "finally resulted in the emergence of the 'Asian-version of NATO,' the root cause of war and aggression." "This is just the worst actual threat, not threatening rhetoric or an imaginary entity," he said. Under a state policy to "physically remove" the North, Kim said the U.S. also has "maximized its nuclear war threats by "resuming the large-scale nuclear war joint drills with a clear aggressive nature and putting the deployment of its strategic nuclear assets near the Korean peninsula on a permanent basis." He also said that the "Nuclear Consultative Group" between the U.S. and South Korea is aimed at using nuclear weapons against the North. The NCG was established when Presidents Yoon Suk Yeol and President Joe Biden held a summit in April. It is designed to discuss nuclear and strategic planning issues. Kim also stressed the need to "exponentially" bolster the country's nuclear arsenal and diversify its nuclear strike capability as well as deployment with different branches and units of the armed forces. He also vowed to strengthen solidarity with countries standing against the U.S. His message came as North Korea has been seeking to bolster its ties with China and Russia vis-a-vis the strengthening of security cooperation among Seoul, Washington and Tokyo. Joined by Russia's visiting defense minister and a senior Chinese official, the North's leader oversaw a military parade to mark a key anniversary in late July, a scene seen as intended to display solidarity among the three nations. Earlier this month, Kim also traveled to Russia on his armored train for talks with Vladimir Putin amid concerns about a possible arms deal between the two nations. The assembly is the highest organ of state power under the North's constitution, but it actually only rubber-stamps decisions by the ruling Workers' Party of Korea. At the latest session, North Korea did not dismiss Premier Kim Tok-hun despite speculation that the North's leader may replace him over the poor response to flooding and storm damage from Tropical Storm Khanun in August. The North Korean leader has strongly berated the premier and the Cabinet over their "irresponsible" attitude in failing to prevent flood damage and "spoiling" the country's economic plans. However, Kim has continued with his official duties, including an inspection of the agricultural sector in a provincial area, raising the possibility that he may remain in office. At the SPA meeting, North Korea also renamed the National Aerospace Development Administration, an agency in charge of launching military spy satellites, to the National Aerospace Technology General Bureau. The secretive regime earlier announced a plan to make a third attempt to launch a military spy satellite in October following its two failed attempts in May and August. (Yonhap) Former President Trump dug into President Biden on Wednesday in a bid to woo autoworkers in Michigan, a state he lost last election, as his GOP rivals gathered across the country for the second presidential primary debate in Simi Valley, Calif. Trump, speaking in Clinton Township, a suburb of Detroit, wasted no time before bashing the incumbent president on what he views as a flawed and failing auto industry under the Biden administration, criticizing the White House on everything from China and NAFTA to electric vehicles. A vote for Crooked Joe means the future of the auto industry will be Made in China, Trump said to a lively audience. Trump was addressing a raucous crowd who cheered as he sought to draw policy contrasts with Biden whom he hopes to face as the next Republican presidential nominee while throwing personal jabs at the Democratic president. Crooked Joe Biden is back like a wretched old vulture trying to finish off his prey, Trump said roughly 20 minutes into his speech. Trumps event comes after Biden sought this week to court members of the United Auto Workers union, taking the unusual step of joining striking members on the picket line. Biden announced he would head to the battleground state after Trump announced plans to do the same. In contrast with Bidens optimistic tone for frustrated workers, Trump painted a grim picture about what their future could look like under another term for Biden, radical Democrats, environmental lunatics, and left-wing crazies, as he referred to his political opponents. The event kicked off the unofficial start to the 2024 cycle for working class voters in a part of the Midwest thats critical to assembling a winning coalition. The auto industry is being assassinated, Trump said. Theyre going to be closing up and building those cars in China and other places. Its a hit job on Michigan. Trump spent a portion of his speech outlining the ways in which he believes employees are worse off under Biden as he pivoted to acknowledge the suffering of the American factory workers. Youre losing your way of life, he said emphatically, further contending that jobs and whole industries in the United States are being shredded while Biden is serving as commander in chief. He also said that Biden has made Americas standing on the national stage weaker, promising that the country will have a renewed sense of credibility under a second Trump term. The whole world is laughing at us, he said. Give me four more years and I will give you an end to this horrible globalism thats killing our country. The former president, who has sustained two impeachments and is currently undergoing multiple indictments as the GOP front-runner, also made several campaign pledges in an attempt to energize voters. I will unleash a thing called American energy, Trump said while outlining more ways that he would distinguish himself from Biden. I will be your protector, I will be your advocate, he pledged, adding, on day one, I will terminate Joe Bidens electric vehicle mandate and levy a tariff on goods made outside of the U.S. He also took a shot at environmental advocates who have had a major influence on Bidens administration. Biden has worked to address climate change at a larger scale than past presidents and has faced pushback from Republicans and the fossil fuel industry. We will drill, baby, drill, Trump said. It will have zero environmental difference. Updated at 9:22 p.m. ET For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Immigration rights activists and supporters of Donald Trump crowd the corner of Madera Road and Presidential Drive as GOP presidential candidates debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) If Donald Trumps absence was felt Wednesday night as Republican presidential candidates clashed in a second debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, his supporters made up for it. Hours before the debate was set to begin, hundreds of Trump supporters lined the street leading to the library, waving flags and using megaphones to fill the air with chants of "Trump 2024" and "Impeach Biden," at times laced with a few expletives. Trump merchandise was hawked in front of the Reagan Library sign. Dirk Wiers, a Simi Valley native, stood on a street corner waving a Trump 2024 flag and waving at cars that honked their support as they passed by. Wiers said he was ambivalent about Trumps absence from Wednesdays debate. If he was here it would have been nice but I understand he's leading so much [in the polls] that he doesn't really need to be here, Wiers said. Trump, the clear front-runner for the Republican nomination, declined to participate in Wednesdays debate. Instead, he traveled to Detroit amid strikes by the United Auto Workers and spoke to nonunion employees at an auto parts company, taking shots at President Biden, electric vehicles and "environmental lunatics." There was virtually no presence of supporters of any of the candidates who actually took the debate stage Wednesday night. While Trump supporters accounted for the vast majority of demonstrators outside the presidential debate, dozens of counter-protesters also lined the streets around the Reagan Library. Some expressed specific support for the Biden administration while others voiced support for LGBTQ+ and immigrant rights. A group of about 50 members of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights marched outside the venue as a few dozen Ukraine supporters waved that nation's flag, advocating for aid from both sides of the political aisle and pleading with Trump supporters to "not believe Russian propaganda," as one demonstrator chanted. But Wiers, who had stationed himself near the pro-Ukraine demonstrators, said there had been no violent encounters between groups. We knew that there'd be some Biden supporters, he said. I was surprised to see all the Ukraine support. A pro-Ukrainian demonstrator and a Trump supporter got into a testy argument over the merits of the U.S. support for Ukraine but the exchange, while heated, did not evolve into a physical confrontation. Police could not be seen where the groups demonstrated, but about a dozen were stationed about 50 yards up Presidential Drive, where they attended to vehicles heading up to the library. Lynn Featherston, also of Simi Valley, who held a Biden-Harris 2020 flag, said there had been no violence but a few protesters were subjected to homophobic and transphobic remarks. That guy was really rude to some of our LGBTQ people, Featherston said, gesturing to a person dressed in Trump garb and standing in the center median. We came as Democrats just to let them know that we dont like their agenda. Around 5:30 p.m., as the start of the debate drew near, protesters from both sides began to peel off. By 6:30 p.m., when the debate was underway, only a few lone Trump supporters remained. 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. Donald Trump speaking at an automotive parts manufacturer in Clinton Township, Mich., on Wednesday. (Scott Olson/Getty Images) In an effort to court blue-collar workers, former President Donald Trump traveled to Michigan on Wednesday to deliver a speech aimed at courting the support of autoworkers at a time when their largest union is on strike. Unlike President Biden, who accepted an invitation by the United Auto Workers to join striking workers on a picket line outside Detroit on Tuesday, Trump spoke at a non-union plant in Clinton Township, but portrayed himself as a champion of union members. Read more on Yahoo News: UAW boss says Trump works for billionaire class ahead of visit, from The Hill I side with the autoworkers of America, Trump said. He laid out what he called his vision of economic nationalism before a modest crowd, many of whom held up pre-printed signs that read Union members for Trump. On Tuesday, UAW President Shawn Fain blasted Trumps planned speech at the non-union plant. All you have to do is look at his track record, Fain said. His track record speaks for itself. In 2008, during the Great Recession, he blamed UAW members, he blamed our contracts for everything that was wrong with these companies thats a complete lie. Read more on Yahoo News: The automotive plant where Trump is speaking sure has some bad reviews, from Salon In Wednesdays speech, Trumps nationalist vision consisted largely of attacks on the electric cars and trucks that the U.S. auto industry has been transitioning to across the country. The damn things dont go far enough and theyre too expensive, Trump said of EVs. Trump also spent much of his campaign speech attacking Biden, who he portrayed as having sold out the auto industry to China. In response to Trumps remarks, Kevin Munoz, a spokesperson for the Biden-Harris campaign issued a statement. Donald Trumps low-energy, incoherent speech at a non-union factory in Michigan was a pathetic, recycled attempt to feign support for working Americans, he said, adding that it was Trump who let China get ahead in the race to the future. Only once during his remarks did Trump bother to mention his rivals for the Republican presidential nomination, which recent polls show is all but his to claim. You know were competing with the job candidates. They are all running for a job. No, theyre all job candidates. Theyll do anything, secretary of something. They even say VP, does anybody see any VP in the group? I dont think so, Trump said. Donald Trump is suing an ex-British spy over the Steele dossier which made a string of explosive claims against the former president and his alleged links to Russia. Mr Trump has brought a data protection claim against Christopher Steele and his company Orbis Business Intelligence in the UKs High Court, records show. The dossier was published by Buzzfeed just 10 days before Mr Trump took office in January 2017 after beating Hillary Clinton in the 2016 US presidential election. Mr Steele, who used to work on MI6s Russia desk, was hired to put together the dossier by Washington DC-based research firm Fusion GPS. Perkins Coie, the law firm for Hillary Clintons campaign and the Democratic National Committee, later acknowledged its role in funding the dossier by retaining Fusion GPS. According to a court order published in London on Thursday, a two-day hearing in Mr Trumps legal action is set to start on 16 October. Mr Steele, who used to work undercover in Moscow, alleged in the dossier that Mr Trump had been compromised by the Russian security service, the FSB. It also made claims of kompromat material involving Mr Trump and prostitutes at a Russian hotel, although there is no evidence that the tape actually exists. Former UK intelligence officer Christopher Steele compiled the explosive dossier (AFP via Getty Images) Mr Trump has always strongly denied the allegations made in the dossier and any suggestion that he was compromised by the Kremlin and Vladimir Putin. Mr Steele had also been a confidential informant for the FBI since 2013 and his past work was considered credible by US officials. A 2019 Justice Department watchdog report stated that the CIA viewed Mr Steeles material as Internet rumor and claimed that he had a lack of self-awareness and was underpinned by poor judgement. A 2022 bipartisan Senate report raised concerns that some of Mr Steeles material was Russian disinformation and stated that the tradecraft reflected in the dossier is generally poor relative to (US intelligence community) standards. Mr Trump and his supporters have characterized his links with Russia as the Russia hoax or simply Russia, Russia, Russia. Donald Trump has always denied the contents of the Steele dossier (AFP via Getty Images) However, the Mueller Report found that although there was no collusion with Russia, Mr Trumps 2016 campaign was eager to benefit from Kremlin intervention. The investigation established multiple links between Trump campaign officials and individuals tied to the Russian government, the more than 400-page report stated. The investigation also identified 10 instances of possible obstruction of justice by Mr Trump as he tried to shut down investigations, but the report stated that Mr Mueller could not conclusively determine that Trump had committed a crime or that he hadnt. Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin at a press conference in Helsinki, Finland in July 2018 (Getty Images) Mr Steele defended the dossier in a 2021 ABC News interview as credible reporting, but admitted that he knew some of the claims may never be provable. He also said that the dossier was right about three of its largest claims: Russias spy agencies interfered in the 2016 US presidential election; Vladimir Putin approved the operation; their goal was to help Mr Trumps candidacy and hurt that of Ms Clinton. There also remain questions over the unexplained links between senior Russian figures and the likes of Trump insiders such as Michael Flynn and Paul Manafort. In May 2017, Mr Trump was accused of leaking sensitive information during a White House meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and the Russian ambassador to the United States, Sergey Kislyak. Mr Trump allegedly gave up classified information gathered by Israel about ISIS terrorist plotting. He later defended his absolute right to share the information with Russia. (The Hill) Former President Trumps unfavorability among registered voters has topped 55 percent, according to a new poll. A NewsNation/Decision Desk HQ poll found roughly 44 percent had a very unfavorable view of Trump, the highest such rating across the other seven GOP contenders tested. Another 13 percent reported a somewhat unfavorable view, for around 56 percent overall unfavorability. But the polarizing former president, the front-runner of the GOP primary race, also boasted the highest percentage of voters who viewed him as very favorable with roughly 22 percent expressing strong favorability. If the government shuts down, will mail still be delivered? By contrast, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) long considered Trumps closest challenger saw around 34 percent of voters view him very unfavorably, and 11 percent view him very favorably. Trumps numbers come as he faces a myriad of legal battles, including multiple criminal indictments, while he campaigns to return for another four years in the White House. Citing his significant lead in polling, he skipped the first GOP presidential debate and plans to do so for the second debate on Wednesday night, as his fellow 2024 Republican contenders gather in Simi Valley, Calif. The former president was also the only GOP contender tested in the new poll whose very favorable rating was higher than his somewhat favorable score. Former Vice President Mike Pence, by contrast, scored around 7 percent very favorable and 22 percent somewhat favorable, compared to 33 percent very unfavorable and 28 percent somewhat unfavorable. Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy came in at 13 percent very favorable and 21 percent somewhat favorable, compared to 22 percent very unfavorable and 15 percent somewhat unfavorable. Ramaswamy, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley and Sen. Tim Scott (S.C.) received significant percentages of voters who said they were not sure about their favorability: 28 percent unsure of Ramaswamy, 29 percent unsure of Haley and 38 percent unsure of Scott. Voters were most uncertain about former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson (R), with around 51 percent saying they are unsure about his favorability. Hutchinson didnt make the cut for the partys second debate stage in California. What leverage? Shutdown fights dont get results Just around four percent in the poll said they were not sure of Trumps favorability. Roughly nine percent each found Haley and Scott very favorable. Another 22 percent viewed Haley somewhat favorably, and similar shares 19 and 20 percent viewed her somewhat and very unfavorably, respectively. Around 19 percent viewed Scott somewhat favorably, and roughly 17 percent each viewed him somewhat and very unfavorably. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie had around 5 percent very favorable and 17 percent somewhat favorable as well as 27 percent somewhat unfavorable and 30 percent very favorable. The poll surveyed 1,000 registered voters between Sept. 19-20, and had the margin of error varied across questions, reported as 3 percentage points. Numbers have been rounded. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Former President Trump wont try to move his Georgia criminal prosecution to federal court, his lawyer said Thursday. The surprising turn of events comes weeks after Steve Sadow, Trumps attorney, notified the state judge that Trump may attempt such a move. President Trump now notifies the Court that he will NOT be seeking to remove his case to federal court, Sadow wrote in court filings Thursday. This decision is based on his well-founded confidence that this Honorable Court intends to fully completely protect his constitutional right to a fair trial and guarantee him due process of law throughout the prosecution of his case in the Superior Court of Fulton County, Georgia. Five of Trumps 18 co-defendants are actively trying to move their charges, though they face an uphill battle. Some legal experts believe the entire case would still be moved if any one of them is ultimately successful. Moving courts would have provided Trump a pathway to try to assert immunity from the charges, though it would not have made them subject to a presidential pardon. It would have also broadened the jury pool to other areas of Georgia that are less heavily Democratic than deep-blue Fulton County and meant a federal judge would oversee the case. Recording of federal court proceedings are also prohibited, but by remaining in state court, Trumps trial is poised to be televised. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis (D) charged Trump and the 18 others last month in a racketeering indictment over their efforts to overturn the 2020 election result in Georgia. They have all pleaded not guilty. Trumps filing Thursday came just before his deadline on whether to attempt the move to federal court, a process known as removal. Trump White House chief of staff Mark Meadows , Trump Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark and three individuals who signed documents purporting to be Georgias valid presidential electors have all tried to move their charges. Other defendants could still file such a request at the last minute. Willis has opposed each of the removals, making the disputes one of the early legal battles in the case. So far, none of the defendants have emerged victorious. A federal judge rejected Meadowss attempt and could rule on the other four defendants requests at any time. The legal battle is likely to be resolved on appeal, however, with Meadows having already begun the process with the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. The dispute turns on whether the defendants can show they are federal officials, the allegations against them are within the scope of their office and they can show a plausible federal defense. If successful, the defendants then plan to try to assert constitutional immunity from the prosecution. Before Thursdays update, Sadow, Trumps attorney, reportedly had attended court hearings at which the other defendants made their case for moving their charges. Trump faces three other criminal indictments. In federal court, he faces charges over his post-2020 election efforts and his handling of classified documents. In state court in New York, Trump faces an indictment in connection with 2016 hush money payments. Trump is attempting to move that case to federal court, and he is now appealing after a judge rejected his request. Trump has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Updated at 6:10 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Ahmed Abdel-Basit entered the office of Sen. Bob Menendez carrying reports packed with data that activists had collected over months about political prisoners and death sentences in Egypt, hoping that the senior Democratic U.S. senator from New Jersey would use his power to help them. With a group of Egyptian Americans, he met with Menendezs staff in Washington in 2019 and 2020, asking that the senator take steps to strip foreign aid to Egypt because of systematic human rights violations. Menendez was deeply concerned about democracy and human rights, his staff told them, promising to relay their concerns. On Friday, Abdel-Basits phone buzzed with nonstop alerts, messages and texts. His circle of activists was hearing along with the rest of the nation about the details of a federal indictment against Menendez. Among the charges, the senator was accused of accepting bribes to use his power and influence to secretly help Egypt buy U.S. weapons and remove holds on U.S. financing. We are shocked, said Abdel-Basit, a physics professor from Jersey City who fled political persecution in Egypt. We trusted him, and we trusted democracy. Ahmed Abdel-Basit, of Jersey City, in front of the United Nations in 2019, protesting a visit by Egyptian President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi. The Egyptian government is killing democracy, killing the people in the street, making unfair trials," he said. "We dont need our money to be used this way in Egypt. We went to Senator Menendez many times. At the end of the day, he is trying to support them, making aid to the Egyptian government. We are very, very depressed. Across the nation, activists and human rights experts expressed alarm over the allegations that the chair of the powerful Senate Foreign Relations Committee took hundreds of thousands in bribes to benefit Egypt and to help three New Jersey businessmen. They feared that corruption had undermined their efforts to condition aid to Egypt, and felt gutted that a person they saw as an ally in the fight for human rights could be compromised. Menendez defended his human rights record at a press conference Monday, saying he advocated for free elections and press freedoms and opposed arbitrary detentions in Egypt, even taking up the issue with the secretary of state and the president. Throughout my time in Congress, I remained steadfast on the side of civil society and human rights defenders in Egypt and elsewhere in the world, Menendez said. While Menendez publicly voiced criticism, he privately met with Egyptian officials to discuss foreign military sales and foreign military financing, according to the indictment. At a time when outrage was growing over rights violations in Egypt, Menendez also ghost-wrote a letter to convince other U.S. senators to release a hold on $300 million in aid to Egypt, prosecutors said. 'These allegations are so shocking' Tom Malinowski, a former New Jersey congressman and former Washington advocacy director at Human Rights Watch, wrote that he was deeply concerned over the allegations. When I was in Congress, I got several tough-on-Egypt provisions into House-passed defense bills, which were then stripped in the Senate, he wrote on X, formerly Twitter. I still don't know why. But the idea that the chairman of the SFRC may then have been in a corrupt relationship with Egypt is horrifying. Sarah Yager, the current Washington director for Human Rights Watch, said Menendez and his team had been champions on human rights issues, and thats why these allegations are so shocking. We spent a lot of time, human rights organizations, with Congress and the Biden administration going back and forth on a countrys human rights record because these countries, especially Egypt, receive so much security assistance, including weapons, materiel and training, Yager said. If there was some corruption in that chain, it undermines the whole point of Congress conditioning security assistance on human rights. The indictment says Menendez also passed on highly sensitive information about the number and nationality of people serving at the U.S. Embassy in Cairo, and pressured a U.S. Department of Agriculture official to protect a halal meat certification monopoly granted by Egypt to Wael Hana, an Egyptian American businessman. Mohamed Ismail, director of Egyptians Abroad for Democracy, is photographed during a visit to Congress in 2022 to call for action on human rights. In return, prosecutors say, Menendez got hundreds of thousands in cash, gold bars, a Mercedes-Benz convertible, and a no- to low-show job for his wife, Nadine Menendez, who was also indicted. The senator also allegedly disclosed non-public information about the granting of military aid to Egypt to Hana, who passed it on to Egyptian officials. After one dinner meeting, Hana texted an official, The ban on small arms and ammunition to Egypt has been lifted. That means sales can begin. That will include sniper rifles among other articles. Hana also arranged meetings and dinners between Menendez, his wife, and Egyptian military and intelligence officials, according to prosecutors. Menendez: Will NJ Latinos rally around Sen. Menendez? Why some leaders are staying on the sidelines Egypt is second-largest recipient of US military aid, after Israel Menendez, who pleaded not guilty to bribery allegations on Wednesday, has denied wrongdoing and said prosecutors misrepresented his work in Congress. He has refused to resign his seat but under Senate rules had to step down from his position as Foreign Relations Committee chair. For Abdel-Basit, the allegations against Menendez stung. He escaped a death sentence dealt to him in absentia in 2016, when Egypt slapped him and other pro-democracy activists with terrorism-related charges. The United States granted him asylum in 2018. About two dozen of his former colleagues at Cairo University remain imprisoned, he said. Human Rights Watch estimates that at least 60,000 people have been arrested in Egypt on political grounds since Abdul Fattah al-Sisi took power in a military coup in 2013. Egypt ranks among the countries in the world with the worst conditions for human rights, with reports of violence against protesters, arbitrary detention, attacks on free expression, torture, disappearances and extrajudicial executions. Reaction: Here are all the politicians calling for Sen. Bob Menendez to resign It is also the second-largest recipient of U.S military aid, after Israel, getting about $1.3 billion a year. In this year's budget, Congress made $320 million of that aid contingent upon specific human rights conditions conditions Egypt's government did not meet. Mohamed Ismail, director of Egyptians Abroad for Democracy, was disappointed, he said, that Menendez did not join his Democratic colleagues who called earlier this year for the Biden administration to withhold the full amount. In his role with the movement, Ismail had organized visits to the halls of Congress and to the office of Menendez to call attention to rights abuses and press for conditioning aid to Egypt. 'If we cant trust our politicians to turn down bribes, the American political system loses legitimacy' Menendez, as chair of the Foreign Relations Committee, has power put a hold on the aid as he has done to block military support to countries like Saudi Arabia and Turkey over human rights concerns. Ultimately, the Biden administration issued a waiver to release $235 million of the $320 million in military aid that was supposed to be withheld, citing security interests. When they cut the aid, they give the message to people like us abroad and to all the people on the ground: We see what you see, we feel what you feel, we see the violations and we are taking actions to support you, said Ismail, who came to the U.S. in 1996. Every time someone tries to hold the aid, someone else comes to approve it. They vote for it, and they let it go. The sad part is this time it is coming from Menendez, a guy representing the Democratic Party and the head of foreign relations. Column: Bob Menendez is running a playbook that looks like Donald Trump's. Can it work? Menendez said Monday that his track record during 30 years in the House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate shows his commitment to human rights, including in Egypt. If you look at my actions related to Egypt during the period described in this indictment, and throughout my whole career, my record is clear and consistent in holding Egypt accountable for its unjust detention of American citizens and others, its human rights abuses, its deepening relationship with Russia, and efforts that have eroded the independence of the nations judiciary, he said. Since the indictment, human rights organizations have called for the Biden administration to suspend aid to Egypt until it can investigate further for potential corruption. We need to move quickly to put a hold on it, to look at the human rights record and the amount that is supposed to be withheld for human rights abuses, Yager said. Sahar Aziz, a professor of law at Rutgers and director of its Center for Security, Race, and Rights, said the allegations against Menendez raise bigger concerns about integrity and trust. If we cant trust our politicians to turn down offers for bribes or illegal influence, then the American political system loses legitimacy, said Aziz, who is Egyptian American and a legal scholar on the Middle East. Its one thing for someone to call for a change in foreign policy aid because they believe its in the best interest of the county," Aziz added. "But its problematic when that position is due to secretive and unlawful allegiances to executives in that foreign country. It calls into question his independence and his ability to analyze policy positions based on the interests of the United States rather than his own self-interest. This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Bob Menendez Egypt allegations in indictment stun community FILE PHOTO: Protest against Turkish court decision that sentenced philanthropist Kavala to life in prison, in Istanbul ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turkey's top appeals court on Thursday upheld the life sentence for philanthropist Osman Kavala , broadcaster Haberturk and other media reported, while overturning 18-year prison sentences for three others in the same case. Kavala, 65, was sentenced to life in prison without parole in April 2022, while seven others in the case received 18 years based on claims they organised and financed nationwide protests in 2013. At the time, the verdict was seen as symbolic of a crackdown on dissent under President Tayyip Erdogan, and the punishment of the government's perceived foes through the judiciary. All have denied the charges, saying the protests developed spontaneously. On Thursday, the appeals court upheld the life sentence for Kavala and an 18-year sentence for Can Atalay, who was elected a member of parliament in May, and three others, Haberturk said. The court overturned 18-year sentences for Mucella Yapici, Hakan Altinay, and Yigit Ekmekci, it said. The ruling effectively marks the end of the appeals process for Kavala, who has been in detention since 2017. Turkey's Constitutional Court previously rejected his appeal too. Hundreds of thousands marched in Istanbul and elsewhere in Turkey in 2013 as demonstrations against plans to build replica Ottoman barracks in the city's Gezi Park grew into nationwide protests against Erdogan's government. Erdogan has equated the protesters to terrorists, and has personally accused Kavala numerous times of being the financier of the protests. Ankara's Western allies, opposition members, and rights groups say Turkish courts are under the control of the government. Erdogan and his AK Party say they are independent. The European Court of Human Rights has ruled that Turkey must free Kavala and others for violations of their rights. Turkey has not taken any action and now faces possible suspension from the Council of Europe. (Reporting by Burcu Karakas and Ali Kucukgocmen; Writing by Tuvan Gumrukcu; Editing by Alexandra Hudson) By Nevzat Devranoglu ANKARA (Reuters) - Ozgur Ozel aims to become leader of Turkey's main opposition party this year and break through its historic ceiling of 25% support nationwide to finally defeat President Tayyip Erdogan, who has enjoyed two decades of election victories. But Ozel, 49, said in an interview that his Republican People's Party (CHP) must first rebuild the trust of its own voters, disillusioned after its latest painful defeat to Erdogan in May presidential and parliamentary elections. Setting out his plans to challenge veteran CHP leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu, Ozel said he would also reach out and address the problems of voters who have hitherto rejected the centre-left, secularist party. "We aim to rebuild the shattered hopes, faith and sense of trust among the 25 million people who voted for us," Ozel told Reuters, two weeks after announcing his bid to challenge Kilicdaroglu for the CHP leadership. The CHP, established by modern Turkey's founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, has always struggled to reach beyond its secularist grassroots towards conservatives. "We aim to shatter this 25% invisible glass ceiling. We want to do this by being ourselves and determining our own position," he said, saying he aimed to restore the party's left-wing, social democratic identity. Berk Esen, associate professor at Sabanci University, said there could be some change in the CHP if Ozel were elected leader, repairing recent damage done to the party, but he was sceptical about the prospects for fundamental transformation. "The main opposition party is heading towards a very serious breaking point," Esen said. "It is rotting from the inside, and I don't think the staff that has watched that rot for a long time can change it." The CHP has long been hit by internal disagreements over its leadership and policy direction and the latest election showings have deepened the disputes. The CHP won 25% of the vote in May's parliamentary election while Erdogan, who has maintained power through his broad appeal to conservative and nationalist voters, comfortably beat Kilicdaroglu in the second round of the presidential vote. Ozel said the CHP failed to analyse those defeats or set out a road map for March local elections, where it is hoping to retain control of the key Istanbul and Ankara municipalities that it won in 2019 after nearly two decades of AKP control. A leadership vote will be held at the CHP congress on Nov. 4-5, with Kilicdaroglu and Ozel among five candidates. Kilicdaroglu, 74, has led the party since 2010. Ozel said electing a new leader was the only way forward. "If the emotional rupture experienced by the voter is not repaired, the voter may move to the point of staying away from the ballot box or even breaking away from politics." (Reporting by Nevzat Devranoglu and Birsen Altayli; Writing by Daren Butler; Editing by Toby Chopra) The top nuclear envoys of South Korea, the United States and Japan denounced North Korea's constitutional amendment to enshrine its policy on nuclear force, Seoul's foreign ministry said Thursday. South Korea's chief nuclear negotiator, Kim Gunn, and his U.S. and Japanese counterparts, Sung Kim and Hiroyuki Namazu, respectively, held a conference call to discuss the outcome of Pyongyang's key assembly meeting and their joint response to its growing nuclear threats. North Korea stipulated the policy of strengthening its nuclear force in its constitution at the 14th Supreme People's Assembly held Tuesday and Wednesday. During the meeting, leader Kim Jong-un said trilateral security cooperation between South Korea, the U.S. and Japan posed "the worst actual threat" and vowed to bolster the country's nuclear capability. The nuclear envoys strongly condemned North Korea's continued pursuit of nuclear weapons while ignoring the crumbling livelihoods of its people. "They strongly condemned that North Korea has more openly revealed its nuclear ambition by adopting the constitutional amendment in the Supreme People's Assembly that stipulated its nuclear force policy," the ministry said in a release. The trio urged Pyongyang to halt its nuclear threats and other provocations, vowing to closely coordinate with the international community to make progress on its denuclearization. The envoys also agreed to closely monitor for signs of North Korea's third attempt to launch a military spy satellite, and arms trade with Russia following a bilateral summit earlier this month. They also welcomed the return of U.S. soldier Travis King, who was expelled from North Korea earlier in the day after running across the inter-Korean border in July. Pvt. King made an unauthorized crossing of the Military Demarcation Line into the North during a tour to the Joint Security Area in the Demilitarized Zone separating the two Koreas, July 18. (Yonhap) Linda Yaccarino on Wednesday waved off the suggestion that she is CEO in name only at Elon Musk s X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. In a live interview at the Code Conference in California, CNBCs Julia Boorstin told Yaccarino that some question her authority at X while Musk, the platforms owner, continues to oversee its product team. Boorstin contrasted this with Meta, whose product team reports to CEO Mark Zuckerberg. There has been speculation that you are in more of a COO role or a placebo role as CEO in name only, Boorstin said. Yeah, not nice, replied Yaccarino, whos now 100 days into the job. [Musk] runs product. He runs technology. He leads a team of exceptionally talented engineers, and whos kidding who? I dont care what the structure is at Meta, but who wouldnt want Elon Musk sitting by their side running product? The chief executive was also asked about Musks suggestion that the platform will start charging all X users a monthly fee, and whether she was involved in the proposal. Could you repeat? Yaccarino replied, pausing at the question. He said thats the plan. So did he consult you before he announced that? Boorstin said. We talk about everything, Yaccarino answered, without elaborating. But this wouldnt be the first time that Musks words have taken Yaccarino by surprise. According to a story published Wednesday by The Financial Times, Musk jumped the gun in May when he publicly announced that X had hired a new female CEO, without providing a name. Though Yaccarino and Musk had privately reached an agreement for her to take the role, shed reportedly told him that she was waiting to inform her then-employer, NBCUniversal, of the move. His surprise announcement immediately led to speculation that Yaccarino had been named to the post. In another moment of apparent divergence, Musk recently made headlines for threatening to sue the Anti-Defamation League, despite Yaccarino and ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt both speaking positively of a meeting theyd had just days prior. ADL seems to be responsible for most of our revenue loss, Musk said earlier this month, suggesting that the organization had scared off advertisers with claims that the platform hosts hateful content. At Code, Yaccarino addressed the controversy, saying: I wish that would be different. Were looking into that. She also said the company is making progress on fighting hate. This comes after prominent Jewish leaders published an open letter saying X represents one of the largest dangers to Jews in years. And earlier at the Code Conference, Yoel Roth the former head of trust and safety at Twitter argued that X isnt doing enough to curb hate. He also had a warning for the new CEO. Look at what your boss did to me, said Roth, who went into hiding last year to avoid an internet mob after Musk baselessly accused him of supporting child sexualization. I hope she is thinking about what those risks are and what she might face. Yaccarino insisted that things have changed since Roth was part of the platform. Its a new day at X, she said at Code. I work at X. He worked at Twitter. X is a new company, building a foundation based on free expression and freedom of speech. Twitter at the time was operating on a different set of rules as set by himself, different philosophies and ideologies that were creeping down the road of censorship. Related... Fragrance's Single Yolk Lotus Paste Baked Mooncake (left) and Joymoms Musang King Snowskin Mooncake have been recalled by Singapore Food Agency (Photos: Singapore Food Agency) SINGAPORE The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has conducted a recall of two mooncakes from food companies Fragrance and Joymom's. In a media release on Wednesday (27 September), the agency said that aflatoxins - which can occur in foods as a result of fungal contamination - were discovered in Fragrance's single-yolk lotus paste baked mooncake. Meanwhile, SFA also found Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) - a bacterium which is a common cause of food poisoning - in Joymom's Musang King snowskin mooncake. Both were at levels exceeding the maximum limits stipulated in SFA's regulations. The SFA has directed both importers, Fragrance Foodstuff and Taste Right, to recall both products. The recall is ongoing. What are aflatoxins and S. aureus? Aflatoxins can occur in foods such as cereals, nuts and oilseeds, as well as processed foods containing these ingredients. "Aflatoxins are known to be genotoxic and carcinogenic, and exposure through food should be kept as low as possible," said SFA. Meanwhile, S. aureus is normally found in the environment, the skin or in noses of people. It can cause sudden onset of symptoms like nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps and diarrhoea. Food-borne pathogens like S. aureus can be introduced through cross-contamination during the production process, especially when good hand hygiene is not practised. SFA has advised those who have purchased the implicated products not to consume them. Those who have eaten the mooncakes and have health concerns should seek medical advice. More information on the safety of mooncakes, and tips on storing and consuming mooncakes, can be found on SFAs website. Do you have a story tip? Email: sgnews.tips@yahooinc.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. Also check out our Southeast Asia, Food, and Gaming channels on YouTube. Yahoo Singapore Telegram Two people were shot at Hollybrook Farms Apartments in Laurel on Wednesday night. Around 9:40 p.m., the Laurel Police Department posted on Facebook that they were on the scene of a shooting on Pasture Lane. One victim was struck by gunfire, Laurel Police Chief Danny Wright said when reached by phone, and was taken by helicopter to a trauma center. The other victim was "grazed" by a bullet and declined medical care, said Wright, who declined to provide the ages and genders of the victims. Hollybrook Farms apartments Monday, April 24, 2023, in Laurel, Delaware. The Laurel Police Department updated the Facebook post to say the scene had been contained to the 400 building of Hollybrook around 10:45 p.m. and fully cleared around 11:10 p.m. No arrests have been made, Wright said. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Laurel Police Department. Information can also be submitted anonymously to Delaware Crimestoppers by texting "KEYWORD" followed by your information to CRIMES (274637). Tips submitted to Crimestoppers that lead to an arrest are potentially eligible for a cash reward. Earlier this month, 26-year-old Taylor German was shot and killed on West Sixth Street. A 41-year-old man was also shot in that incident. Shannon Marvel McNaught reports on Sussex County and beyond. Reach her at smcnaught@gannett.com or on Twitter @MarvelMcNaught. More: A toddler injured in Georgetown fire dies. 3 dead from 2 Sussex County fires last week This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: 2 shot at Hollybrook Apartments in Laurel's second shooting this month The Union Auto Workerss (UAW) lead negotiator in contract talks with General Motors dug into former President Trump, just hours ahead of the former presidents talk with union workers in Michigan, calling his expected rally verbal diarrhea. In a letter first sent to the Detroit Free Press, UAW Vice President for General Motors Mike Booth wrote, Let me be blunt. Donald Trump is coming off as a pompous ahole. Coming to Michigan to speak at a nonunion employer and pretending it has anything to do with our fight at the Big Three is just more verbal diarrhea from the former president. The letter, later shared by the UAW with The Hill, comes just hours before Trump is expected to hold a rally at a nonunion plant with current and former union workers amid their ongoing strikes against the Big Three automakers Ford, General Motors and Stellantis. Where were his rallies for striking workers when we were on the picket line in 2019? Where are the jobs he promised to return to the U.S. while on the campaign trail in 2015? Booth said. The proof is in the pudding. His actions in office went to enrich the very elite few while the working class of America stagnated. This stunt is another ploy to pull the wool over the eyes of the working class. Again! Booths comments are likely a reference to Trumps vow during his 2015 presidential campaign to bring millions of jobs back to America and away from foreign adversaries. Booths comments echo those from UAW President Shawn Fain Tuesday, who said Trump serves a billionaire class, and does not have any bit of care about what our workers stand for, what the working class stands for. Like Booth, Fain also took aim at Trumps track record, asking where the former president was during the 2019 strike by General Motors workers. Fain also called out Trumps rpopsoal during his 2016 presidential campaign to rotate auto manufacturing industry jobs from the Midwest to the South, which the union has argued would force union workers into jobs with lower wages. Trumps visit to Detroit comes on the heels of President Bidens trip to Belleville, Mich. on Tuesday, where he joined the picket line with striking autoworkers. The move was seen by some as a likely offense against Trump, who could be the incumbents 2024 presidential opponent. Biden spoke at a General Motors facility alongside Fain, who has yet to endorse Bidens reelection bid, citing concerns over the Biden administrations push for electric vehicles (EVs), which put autoworkers jobs at risk. The UAW began its strike against the automakers nearly two weeks ago, and expanded it to an additional 38 locations last week. Reports surfaced Wednesday that the union could further expand the strike Friday if significant progress is not made in talks with Detroit automakers. The union is asking for wage increases, cost-of-living pay raises, a 32-hour work week with 40 hours of pay, union representation at new battery plants, restoration of traditionally-defined benefit pensions for new hires who currently receive only 401(k)-style retirement plans, and pension increases for retirees. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The United Auto Workers (UAW) reportedly threatened to further expand strikes on Friday if significant progress is not made in talks with Detroit automakers, multiple media outlets reported. Negotiations continued Wednesday between the UAW and the Big Three automakers General Motors (GM), Ford Motor, and Stellantis nearly two weeks since the union authorized a strike, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing a union official. The union official told the Journal the union would identify new strike targets at 10 a.m. Friday and begin walkouts at noon unless negotiations over the autoworkers contracts are made. The UAWs strike expanded last Friday to include Stellantis and GM facilities at 38 locations across 28 states. Ford was not included in the expansion as talks with the union were progressing. UAW President Shawn Fain is slated to speak in a planned video address in a Facebook Live event on Friday at 10 a.m., where could make the announcement on an expansion, CNBC reported. The union did not say what action is expected on Friday, reiterating all options are on the table, according to The Associated Press (AP). Two people with direct knowledge of the talks told AP the union was slated to meet with GM negotiators Wednesday afternoon. The strike began on Sept. 14, with workers from plants near St. Louis, outside Detroit and in Toledo, Ohio walking out. The union is asking for wage increases, cost-of-living pay raises, a 32-hour work week with 40 hours of pay, union representation at new battery plants, restoration of traditional-defined benefit pensions for new hires who currently receive only 401(k)-style retirement plans, and pension increases for retirees. On Tuesday, Fain said the union is moving with all three companies still, while noting it is slower, per AP. The strikes have so far only targeted part of the companies plans, with Fain planning to add more to push automakers to raise their offers. The strike currently involves around 12 percent of the unions 146,000 workers, or around 18,500 people, enabling the union to preserve a strike fund that was previously worth $825 million before the strike began. According to AP, if all of the unions workers went on strike, the fund would run out in less than three months, without factoring in health care costs. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. LGBTQ Ugandans live in fear as new law looms in Kampala KAMPALA (Reuters) - The consideration and passage by Uganda's government of one of the world's harshest anti-gay laws have unleashed a torrent of abuse against LGBTQ people, mostly committed by private individuals, rights groups said on Thursday. The Anti-Homosexuality Act (AHA), which was enacted in May, prescribes the death penalty for certain same-sex acts. At least six people have been charged under it, including two accused of the capital offence of "aggravated homosexuality". But the report, authored by a committee of the Convening for Equality (CFE) coalition, said the main perpetrators of human rights abuses against LGBTQ people this year - including torture, rape, arrest and eviction - were private individuals. It said this pointed to the way the law and the rampant homophobic rhetoric that preceeded its passage earlier in the year had radicalized the public against the LGBTQ community. For example, the report said mob-aided arrests had become increasingly common "because AHA has put LGBTIQ+ persons on the spot as persons of interest, and the public seems to be the custodians of enforcing the witch hunt." Between Jan. 1 and Aug. 31, researchers documented 306 rights violations based on the victim's sexual orientation and gender identity, with state actors the perpetrators in 25 of those cases. By contrast, reports by rights activists in 2020 and 2021 found that state actors were responsible for nearly 70% of the rights violations documented in those years. The report did not provide comparative figures for 2022. Ugandan Information Minister Chris Baryomunsi was not immediately available for comment. The report's authors said they had documented 18 instances in which the police conducted forced anal examinations of people in their custody to gather "evidence" of homosexuality. "Surviving a forced anal examination at police is something that lives with you forever," it quoted one survivor as saying. Police spokesman Fred Enanga said he had not yet read the report and could not comment. The report cautioned that its statistics could not be considered exhaustive given the difficulties LGBTQ people face reporting violations. The climate of fear and intimidation unleashed by the law has also led to rising cases of mental health conditions in the LGBTQ community, including suicidal thoughts, it said. (Editing by Aaron Ross and Toby Chopra) New UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps is on an official visit to Kyiv, and he has already met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Source: European Pravda, referring to the Office of the President Details: Zelenskyy posted photos on the morning of 28 September from his meeting with Shapps but did not specify exactly when it took place. UK Defence Minister Grant Shapps Photo: Zelenskyys Facebook The president thanked the United Kingdom for its strong support of Ukraine during the war, especially in regard to providing long-range missiles which have increased the capabilities of the Ukrainian army. The Office of the President added that the politicians also discussed the issue of strengthening Ukrainian air defence, which is especially important as the winter period approaches. The parties also noted the adoption by the Group of Seven at the NATO Summit in Vilnius of a Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine and the beginning of negotiations with the United Kingdom on the conclusion of an appropriate bilateral agreement on security guarantees for Ukraine. Background: Grant Shapps has been in charge of the UKs Ministry of Defence in place of Ben Wallace since September 2023. After the September meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (Ramstein format), Shapps promised to supply tens of thousands of artillery shells for Ukraine and also recently announced the United Kingdoms plans to train another 30,000 Ukrainian soldiers. 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 explosive drone built for Islamic State (IS) using a 3D printer has been seen for the first time after a student was found guilty of engaging with terrorists. PhD student Mohamad Al Bared was handed a guilty verdict at Birmingham Crown Court on Thursday on a single count of engaging in conduct in preparation of terrorist acts to benefit a proscribed terrorist organisation. He was remanded in custody and told he may face a life term when he is sentenced on Nov 27. The mechanical engineering graduate used a 3D printer to make the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), which was capable of delivering a bomb or chemical weapon for Isis terrorists, at his Coventry home. The 27-year-old denied being a supporter of IS or its aims, having told jurors that he had no plans to assist it in any way and that he made a drone for his own research purposes. Al Bared was a University of Birmingham PhD student at the time of his arrest - West Midlands CTU/PA Al Bared, who was studying at Birmingham University and specialised in laser-drilling, also claimed to have researched IS to argue against its aims with others at a mosque. But prosecutors said it was clear from encrypted online chats and other digital material that he supported IS, intended to make a single-use video-transmitting fixed-wing drone for terrorist purposes and to travel to Africa via Turkey. Adjourning sentence after Al Bared was convicted, Judge Paul Farrer KC said: The court is going to have to consider whether the appropriate sentence is one of life imprisonment. You have been convicted of an offence of the utmost gravity. A long prison sentence is the inevitable consequence of that, but the length and nature of that sentence is a matter for careful consideration. The UAV was found in a bedroom when Al Bared was arrested in January this year. 'We suggest it was being manufactured to deliver a bomb', said the prosecution - West Midlands CTU/PA Opening the Crowns case in August, at the start of a five-week trial, prosecutor Michelle Heeley KC told the court: Police found a drone. They also found material suggesting this defendant supported Islamic State, a terrorist organisation. The court was told that Al Bared, who lived with his parents, was arrested at the same time the raid took place and had a mobile phone that police also seized. After showing the drone, which was contained in a large see-through plastic bag, to the jury, the prosecutor said it possessed landing gear and a small digital camera. It had all the components required for it to fly, Ms Heeley added. We suggest it was being manufactured to deliver a bomb ... to fly into IS enemy territory and deliver a chemical weapon or some other kind of device. During the opening day of the trial, Ms Heeley also told how Al Bared had filled in an IS application form and set up a UK-registered company to help plans for future foreign travel. Written material suggesting the drone was somewhat inspired by the design of the Tomahawk missile was also put before the jury, in what the prosecution said was Al Bared describing his build process. Ms Heeley said of the evidence found on an electronic device, which also included references to fuses, mechanical detonators and an explosive head: He is literally reporting back to someone about what it is that he is doing. What drone for legitimate use needs an explosive head? What does need an explosive head is a drone that has been designed on a missile. Al Bared researched sarin and ricin Alistair Webster KC, Al Bareds barrister, made an opening speech that claimed his client had studied IS-linked material, including video of beheadings, because he wanted to debate against the terror groups views. Mr Webster said: He accepts that he is fascinated by Islamic State and its mindset, but rather than supporting it he wanted to argue against it, in the mosque, online. But Al Bared was described by anti-terror officers as someone with an extremist mindset who intended to cause mass casualties. Commenting on the investigation, Det Ch Supt Mark Payne, the commander of the West Midlands counter-terrorism unit, said of Al Bared: He has built in his home address, using a 3D printer, a drone. He has then researched chemicals including sarin and ricin and mustard gas. It is our clear view that this man was very, very dangerous, that he was building something that was a weapon to be used to deliver chemicals to cause harm to people who didnt share his extremist views. This is clearly somebody who had a terrorist mindset. 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 American soldier who sprinted into North Korea across the heavily fortified border between the Koreas more than two months ago arrived back in the U.S. early Thursday, video appeared to show. North Korea abruptly announced Wednesday that it would expel Pvt. Travis King . His return was organized with the help of ally Sweden and rival China, according to the White House. While officials have said King, 23, is in good health and the immediate focus will be on caring for him and reintegrating him into U.S. society, his troubles are likely far from over. King, who had served in South Korea, ran into the North while on a civilian tour of a border village, July 18, becoming the first American confirmed to be detained in the isolated nation in nearly five years. At the time, he was supposed to be heading to Fort Bliss, Texas , following his release from prison in South Korea on an assault conviction. He had been declared AWOL from the Army. In many cases, someone who is AWOL for more than a month can automatically be considered a deserter. Punishment for going AWOL or desertion can vary, and it depends in part on whether the service member voluntarily returned or was apprehended. Kings handover by the North Koreans makes that more complicated. Video aired Thursday by a Texas news station appeared to show King walking off a plane in San Antonio. Dressed in a dark top and pants, he could be seen speaking briefly with people waiting on the tarmac. He shook hands with one before being led into a building. Officials earlier said he would be taken to Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston in Texas. King is expected to undergo psychological assessments and debriefings. He will also get a chance to meet with family. He will be in military custody throughout the process since his legal situation is complicated. On Wednesday, Swedish officials took King to the Chinese border, where he was met by U.S. Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns, the Swedish ambassador to China, and at least one U.S. Defense Department official. He was then flown to a U.S. military base in South Korea before being returned to the U.S. It was not clear why the North ? which has tense relations with Washington over Pyongyangs nuclear program, support for Russias war in Ukraine and other issues ? agreed to turn him over or why the soldier fled in the first place. Several recent American detainees had been held for over a year ? 17 months in the case of Otto Warmbier, a college student who was arrested during a group tour. Warmbier was in a coma when he was deported , and later died. North Korea has often been accused of using American detainees as bargaining chips, and there had also been speculation that the North would try to maximize the propaganda value of a U.S. soldier. But analysts say Kings legal troubles could have limited his propaganda value, and Biden administration officials insisted they provided no concessions to North Korea to secure his release. (AP) Correction: A previous version of this story misquoted Rep. Mike Garcia on Ukrainian military advisers. Garcia said they are not taking the advice of U.S. military advisers. WASHINGTON House Republicans growing opposition to a fifth Ukraine aid package means the Pentagon is unlikely to have the funding it needs to replenish U.S. weapons it has already sent to Kyiv. Approximately $2.5 billion in Ukraine funds earmarked for the Defense Department to backfill U.S. weapons stockpiles expires at the end of the fiscal year on Saturday. And with House Republican leaders refusing to consider the Senates short-term budget proposal that includes $6 billion in supplemental assistance for Kyiv, its unlikely the Pentagon will have the replenishment funds it needs starting in October. House Armed Services Chairman Mike Rogers, R-Ala., told Defense News theres no backup plan to get the replenishment funds it needs for U.S. stockpiles without an additional Ukraine aid package. Weve got to get the supplemental, he said. But thats easier said than done. The Senates Ukraine aid supplemental includes $1.5 billion in replenishment funds to backfill U.S. stocks. Thats part of a broader $6 billion package in economic and military aid for Kyiv that the Senate included in its stopgap funding bill needed to avoid a government shutdown on Sunday. The Senates Ukraine aid package is significantly smaller than the $24 billion the White House asked for in August. The slimmed down package also includes $1.5 billion for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which allows the Pentagon to place contracts for defense manufacturers to build weapons systems for Kyiv over the longer-term, and another $1.5 billion in Defense Department operations and maintenance funds to help the Ukrainians ward off Russias invasion. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Capitol Hill last week, telling lawmakers his country would lose the war without continued assistance. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., did not invite Zelenskyy to address the full House but met with him privately alongside the bipartisan leadership of key congressional committees. The Pentagon says that a previous accounting error means it has approximately $6 billion in funds to keep transferring weapons to Ukraine past the end of the fiscal year. But the Pentagon will not have funds to continue backfilling those weapons without a new supplemental. McCarthy has refused to put a Ukraine supplemental on the floor. And the House spent a significant portion of the week holding multiple votes on whether to keep $300 million in funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative in the defense spending bill, which Republicans have repeatedly struggled to pass this month. That money does not include the funds the Pentagon needs to backfill U.S. stockpiles. Nevertheless, the House voted 217-211 on Thursday to strip the $300 million in Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative funding from the defense spending bill and hold a separate vote on it. This vote marked an abrupt reversal from Wednesday when most lawmakers overwhelmingly voted 104-330 against an amendment from Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., that would have removed the Ukraine funds from the defense spending bill. Also on Wednesday, the House rejected another amendment from Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., to ban assistance to Ukraine in a 93-339 vote. Despite the strong support for Ukraine, Republican leaders hope removing the assistance from the defense spending bill will appease the skeptics in their party and finally allow them to pass the legislation this week, after failing three times to do so earlier this month. The struggle to pass Ukraine aid and defense spending legislation comes as Congress threatens to shut down the government on Sunday amid the right-wing Freedom Caucus opposition to a short-term spending bill. While strong bipartisan majorities continue to support Ukraine aid, previously supportive Republicans are now voting with the Freedom Caucus on the issue. One of those previously supportive Republicans who voted against Ukraine aid this week is a defense appropriator, Rep. Mike Garcia of California. He said on Wednesday that he couldnt support a blank check commitment. Its not clear to me that the Ukrainians have a clearly defined win strategy to get the Russians out of eastern regions of Ukraine, he said in a video on Wednesday. Its not clear to me that our nations, the United States and Ukraine, have alignment on the strategic mission objective of repelling Russia from Crimea or not. And its not clear to me the Ukrainians are taking the advice of American military advisers on how to win the war. Congress has passed a cumulative $113 billion in economic and security assistance for Ukraine since Russias invasion last year. Here again is an attempt to cut off any support for Ukraine as they fight to defend their country from an illegal Russian invasion, Rep. Betty McCollum, the top Democratic defense appropriator, said on Wednesday. Lets not abandon our fellow democracies. Lets not abandon the EU and our NATO allies now. Lets not abandon Ukraine. (Bloomberg) -- NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg made a surprise visit to Kyiv, where he met President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and discussed ways for alliance members to supply additional air defense systems to Ukraine. Zelenskiy reiterated that NATO membership for Ukraine is only a matter of time. Most Read from Bloomberg Earlier, Zelenskiy met UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps, according to the presidential website. They spoke about the importance of strengthening Ukrainian air defense ahead of winter and the use of long-range weapons. Estonia proposed a full trade embargo against Russia as the European Union prepares its 12th sanctions package, with measures including a ban on the transit of sanctioned goods. Latest Coverage Pentagon Says It Cant Afford to Replace Arms Sent to Ukraine Estonia Proposes Full EU Trade Embargo Against Russia Polish Plan to Cut Support for Ukraine Refugees Alarms Aid Group NATO Turns to Underwater Drones and AI in Bid to Deter Russia Markets Hard red winter wheat, the top variety grown in the US, held at the lowest level in two years amid plentiful global grain supplies. Bumper harvests from parts of the Northern Hemisphere including Russia has weighed on global prices, despite ongoing tension in the Black Sea. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Artillery has been one of the most heavily used weapons by both Russia and Ukraine. The intensity of its use has added urgency to the US military's efforts to update its artillery. As part of that work, the US Army is investing in precision shells and long-range cannons. The war in Ukraine has highlighted both the value of precision-guided artillery rounds and how such munitions can be foiled by jamming navigational technologies such as GPS. But the US Army is moving forward with a plan to design a self-guided 155-mm shell that can home in on tanks and other targets, even when GPS signals are jammed and can be fired to ranges well beyond what current US artillery can reach. The Army recently published a market-survey request to identify companies that can manufacture the Cannon-Delivered Area Effects Munitions, or C-DAEM. The project actually predates the war, with the Army seeking funding for it as far back as 2018. The market survey describes C-DAEM as a munition designed to destroy tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, and self-propelled howitzers at extended ranges compared with current rounds. It can be fired from current 39-caliber howitzers which means the gun tube is 39 times as long as it is wide such as the M109A6 Paladin self-propelled howitzer and M777 155-mm towed guns. A developmental test of the Extended Range Cannon Artillery project at US Army Yuma Proving Ground in November 2018. Yuma Proving Ground Perhaps more important, C-DAEM "is desired to operate at the high-muzzle velocities required to achieve 70 km with developmental propellants out of the XM1299 Extended Range Cannon Artillery (ERCA) artillery weapon system," the Army said. Long-range weapons, such as US-made HIMARS rockets with a 50-mile reach, have proven devastating in Ukraine. The US Army is pinning its hopes on the ERCA program to revitalize its long-neglected artillery by producing a new 155-mm, 58-caliber howitzer to keep pace with Chinese and Russian cannon and rockets with ranges of up to 45 miles. (The US Army's Paladin has a range of about 25 miles.) The emergence of artillery as the dominant weapon in Ukraine especially with long-range guided munitions has only added urgency to the Army's plan to upgrade its big guns. C-DAEM shells are expected to be autonomous, using on-board sensors to detect, identify, and home in on targets rather than relying on GPS signals, which can be jammed, or a human observer tasked with the difficult and dangerous task of painting the target with a laser designator. If it works as designed, a C-DAEM round could be launched into a high-traffic area deep in enemy territory to hunt armor or be used closer to the front to support friendly troops. US soldiers prepare to load an M777 howitzer with an M1122 155-mm round at Ft. McCoy in Wisconsin in July 2019. US Army Reserve/Spc. Christopher Brumbelow A 2017 Army request for information required "the projectile and its payload to operate in GPS Denied/Degraded conditions and perform in high target location error (TLE) environments." A 2018 Army notice specified the round should be able to reach ranges of roughly 14 miles to 81 miles on "a modern, high-intensity battlefield" and be "capable of defeating stationary and moving armored vehicles" that "may be poorly located (target location error of 50-2000 meters) or moving." The round should be able to defeat an armored vehicle's mobility or ability to fire "across the full range of environmental conditions and in the presence of cyber, jamming, and obscurant countermeasures," the 2018 notice said. D-CAEM addresses multiple issues. One is the need to "engage moved or moving targets at extended ranges, and ultimately the ability to differentiate between friendly and hostile vehicles," Army managers said in 2019. Unguided artillery rounds can't do this except with a lucky shot, and even guided munitions such as the Excalibur 155-mm GPS-guided shell would be challenged to do so. An Excalibur precision-guided munition during a test for the US Navy. Raytheon/YouTube Another is devising guided munitions that can home in on targets even when GPS is jammed or disrupted. Russia, which has invested heavily in electronic warfare since the Soviet era, has had some success jamming Western-made guided munitions supplied to Ukraine, including HIMARS rockets and JDAM glide bombs. C-DAEM also has political appeal. From the 1970s to the 1990s, one of the Army's most potent weapons was the Dual-Purpose Improved Conventional Munition, or DPICM, a howitzer shell that showered the target zone with 88 antipersonnel and antitank bomblets. But a failure rate of up to 20% meant those cluster munitions left unexploded bomblets on battlefields that maimed civilians long after the fighting ended. International outcry over that danger led the US and other nations to switch to more discriminating munitions. The Biden administration has supplied Ukraine with DPICM, justifying it as a stopgap measure until industry can ramp up production of regular 155-mm rounds, but the decision still drew criticism. To Kyiv and Washington, the need to beef up Ukrainian firepower outweighed the risks of unexploded bomblets littering Ukraine's countryside for decades. Whether or not D-CAEM, with an estimated failure rate of 1%, eventually ends up in Ukraine, its precision may allow US forces and their partners to hit hard-to-find targets without the dangers of cluster munitions. Michael Peck is a defense writer whose work has appeared in Forbes, Defense News, Foreign Policy magazine, and other publications. He holds a master's in political science. Follow him on Twitter and LinkedIn. Read the original article on Business Insider Fighters who had previously fought in Ukraine for the Russian mercenary group Wagner have returned to the battlefield in the east, according to the Ukrainian military. Wagner mercenaries had withdrawn from the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut in May as they handed control of the area to Russias military. Following the shadowy groups failed mutiny in June, security experts predicted that the Kremlin would seek to further absorb the group into the Russian military. On Wednesday, the Deputy Commander of Communications for Ukrainian troops in the East, Serhii Cherevatyi, said that the former Wagner fighters who had returned to Ukraine were now working for the Russian Ministry of Defense or its affiliated structures and had joined as individuals not as a unit. As of now, there are several hundred of them in our direction, on the Eastern Front, in different areas, Cherevatyi told CNN. But he sought to downplay the significance of their return, saying Russian forces in Ukraine are short of everyone there now, so any man is good for them. Ukrainian soldiers taking part in the offensive near the beleaguered city of Bakhmut also told CNN former Wagner troops had returned to the area. Wagner is here too, a drone operator with call-sign Groove told CNNs Fred Pleitgen on the ground in eastern Ukraine on Tuesday. They came back, they swiftly changed their commanders and returned here. Mykhailo Podolyak, advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, said Wagner fighters had signed contracts with the Russian MoD as an agreement to play the last chord, plugging the Russian hole in the Bakhmut direction for a short time. Podolyak, too, was keen not to inflate the return of the former mercenaries. Remember: the Wagner PMC no longer exists, Podolyak wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Wednesday. The Ukrainian general leading the southern counteroffensive, Oleksandr Tarnavsky, told CNN last week that Wagner fighters continue to pop up here and there on the frontlines. The fact is that their badges appear here and there thats been constant, he said. CNNs Florence Davey-Attlee and Andrew Carey contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Davyd Arakhamiias proposal to extradite evaders is unlikely to be successfully implemented in real life. Arakhamia is the leader of President Volodymyr Zelenskyys Servant of the People political party who went abroad under martial law thanks to forged documents. Source: Roman Kostenko, Secretary of the Committee on National Security, Defence and Intelligence, People's Deputy from the Voice political party, in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda Quote: "I dont understand how one would prove that the certificates of people staying abroad were forged. This kind of an initiative is made to, perhaps, scare someone. But those who have left (especially with such certificates), they are unlikely to return. In addition, I have one more question: how will we explain to our allies that we want to take away [those people ed.]? I don't understand how this initiative will work." Background: On 1 September, Davyd Arakhamiia, the leader of the Servant of the People ruling party said that Ukrainians liable for military service who left Ukraine thanks to forged certificates of unfitness for service may be extradited. Later, Fedir Venislavskyi, another member of the Committee on National Security, Defence and Intelligence and a representative of Servant of the People, called Arakhamia's proposal legally possible and noted that "everything depends on law enforcement agencies, how quickly they will register the proceedings, and serve people with notices of suspicion". 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! Ukraines National Council on Television and Radio Broadcasting is working on regulating the Telegram messenger, where Russian users spread their false narratives. Source: Ukrinform, citing Olha Herasymyuk, Head of Ukraines National TV and Radio Broadcasting Council Details: Herasymyuk said that media outlets banned in Ukraine for pro-Russian activities are still active on Telegram. This is a "difficult issue" that the council is working to resolve. Quote: "Their Google-translated renditions of Ukrainian language are no longer funny. They learned to use nice, proper words. People are having trouble identifying them from real pro-Ukrainian channels. This is an issue we are working on with the Ministry for Digital Transformation and others." 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! Ukraines Armed Forces continue to restrain the Russians near Bakhmut in Donetsk Oblast and repel an attack by the invaders in the areas of Pervomaiske and Marinka, all the while advancing with their offensive on the Zaporizhzhia front. Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook, information as of 06:00 on 28 September Quote: "Twenty-six combat clashes were recorded during the past day. In total, the enemy inflicted two missile strikes and 57 air strikes and carried out over 50 attacks from multiple-launch missile systems, both on the positions of our troops and on our countrys civilian infrastructure facilities." Details: On the Bakhmut front, Ukrainian forces successfully repelled Russian attacks in the areas of the settlements of Hrihorivka, Klishchiivka and Andriivka in Donetsk Oblast. In the area of responsibility of the Tavriia Operational Strategic Group on the Avdiivka front, the Armed Forces repelled the Russian attack in the area of the village of Pervomaiske in Donetsk Oblast. On the Marinka front, the Russians conducted unsuccessful offensive operations in the area of Marinka in Donetsk Oblast, where during the past day they made 13 unsuccessful attempts to oust Ukrainian units from their positions. On the Shakhtarsk front, Ukrainian soldiers successfully repelled a Russian attack in the area of Rivnopil in Donetsk Oblast. In the area of responsibility of the Khortytsia Operational Strategic Group on the Kupiansk and Lyman fronts, the Russians did not conduct offensive (assault) actions. On the Zaporizhzhia front, the Russians tried to restore their lost positions in the area of Robotyne in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, but were unsuccessful. In the area of responsibility of the Odesa Operational Strategic Group on the Kherson front, the Armed Forces continue to conduct counter-battery operations, destroy storage points and inflict successful hits on Russia's rear. In the area of responsibility of the Pivnich (North) Operational Strategic Group on the Volyn and Polissia fronts, the operational situation remains without significant changes. On the Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna fronts, the Russians are maintaining a military presence in the border areas. They are actively conducting sabotage activities in the border areas to prevent the deployment of Ukrainian troops to threatened fronts. Over the past day, the Ukrainian Air Force inflicted seven attacks on clusters of Russian personnel, weapons and military equipment. The defenders also destroyed two operational-tactical level reconnaissance UAVs. Ukraines Rocket Forces and Artillery targeted a command post, an S-300 anti-aircraft missile system and six artillery pieces. 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! Valerii Zaluzhnyi , Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, has met with Admiral Tony Radakin , Chief of the Defence Staff of the UK, to discuss the Ukrainian counteroffensive and the needs of Ukrainian troops. Source: Zaluzhnyi on Telegram Quote: "A meeting with Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, Chief of the Defence Staff of the UK. I reported on our defensive and offensive actions on the front. We discussed the current needs of the Ukrainian army. I particularly stressed the need to strengthen our air defence. I thanked him for this visit and for supporting Ukraine in the fight against Russian aggression." Background: On the morning of 28 September, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Grant Shapps, the UKs new Defence Minister, in Kyiv. 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! KYIV (Reuters) -NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg , on an unannounced visit to Kyiv, said on Thursday that Ukrainian forces were "gradually gaining ground" in their counteroffensive against Russian forces. Speaking at a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Stoltenberg said "every metre that Ukrainian forces regain is a metre that Russia loses". "And there is a stark contrast: Ukrainians are fighting for their families, their future, their freedom," he added. "Moscow is fighting for imperial delusions." Zelenskiy stressed Ukraine's need for more air defence against Russian attacks, saying Moscow had used more than 40 Shahed drones in strikes on Ukraine the previous night alone. "And so it is almost every night. In the conditions of such intense attacks against Ukrainians, against our cities, ports - which are important for global food security - we need a corresponding increase in pressure on Russia and a corresponding increase in our air shield," he said. Stoltenberg said he was "constantly pushing" NATO allies to provide more support to Ukraine and speed up delivery, "not least" of air defence systems. Stoltenberg announced that NATO now had over-arching framework contracts in place with arms companies worth 2.4 billion euros ($2.53 billion) for ammunition, including 1 billion euros in firm orders. He said such contracts would allow NATO members to replenish their depleted stockpiles while also continuing to provide Ukraine with ammunition, a key factor in the war. Stoltenberg also condemned Russian strikes near Ukraine's border with NATO member Romania. He said there was no evidence such strikes were a deliberate attack on Romania but branded them "reckless" and "destabilising". ($1 = 0.9489 euros) (Reporting by Yuliia Dyss and Andrew Gray; Writing by Andrew Gray; Editing by Bart Meijer, Charlotte Van Campenhout, Alex Richardson and Alison Williams) The intensification of mobilisation measures in Ukraine may occur in the event of a change in military strategy. Source: Roman Kostenko , Secretary of the Parliamentary Committee on National Security, Defence and Intelligence, in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda. Quote: "The war has moved into a new phase the war of economies and resources. We need to understand our future strategy and what we are doing. We can talk about a certain amount [of people who need to be mobilised Ukrainska Pravda] when we know how many units we need to create, how many units we need to replenish, what actions the Russian Federation is planning, what our plan is (we are going to counterattack in one direction, in several, whether we will restrain the Russian Federation on the borders)." Details: However, Kostenko says, neither he nor the parliamentary committee in which he works is aware of changes in the military strategy, so, as he says, mobilisation will continue "in the format it is now". At the same time, the official says, the state should now change its information policy regarding mobilisation and convey to Ukrainians the idea that "the war can continue for a long time and we cannot put it all on the same shoulders." Previously: In early September, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence approved a new Schedule of Medical Conditions, which is used to assess fitness for military service and regulate the service of those with limited fitness. 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! U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken plans to release a message this week wishing for a closer friendship between Koreans and Americans on the occasion of this year's Chuseok holiday, according to sources Thursday. Blinken and Philip Goldberg, U.S. ambassador to Korea, are reportedly planning to release separate messages for Koreans celebrating this year's Chuseok fall harvest holiday, which runs from Thursday to Sunday. Since taking office in 2021, Blinken has released an annual Chuseok message, wishing the Korean people a joyous holiday and stressing the importance of the longstanding friendship between the two countries. (Yonhap) The chief of police at UNC-Chapel Hill indicated Thursday the university would install license plate readers and additional surveillance cameras, the first public, concrete suggestions of how the university would improve security following a fatal shooting on campus last month. UNC Police Chief Brian James provided the universitys Board of Trustees an overview of his departments response to the incident during a meeting Thursday, also listing several ways he hopes to improve the universitys readiness and response to any future incidents that may occur. James said his department is in the process of getting license plate readers through Flock Safety, a private company. The readers could be combined with surveillance cameras to help provide real-time access to all of those technologies during emergencies and day-to-day operations at the university, he said. Marty Kotis, a member of the Board of Trustees, told The News & Observer that the cameras had been ordered prior to the shooting but had not arrived to the university to be installed yet. Kotis said the cameras are set to be installed within the next four to six weeks. UNC Police Chief Brian James speaks about Mondays campus shooting during a press conference at the Carolina Inn on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023, in Chapel Hill, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown/kmckeown@newsobserver.com Flock license plate readers are used by thousands of law enforcement agencies across the country, including some in North Carolina and the Triangle. The company has been criticized, notably by the American Civil Liberties Union, for the vast amount of data it collects and the lack of regulation surrounding the technology. The cameras are connected to state and national crime databases and are used to identify license plates that are connected to people who may have committed a crime. The cameras also collect information about the type, make, model, color and unique features of vehicles, but the company says it does not photograph people inside the car or use facial recognition software, The News & Observer previously reported. North Carolina law requires law enforcement agencies to delete data obtained by the readers after 90 days with few exceptions. Agencies implementing the readers are required to adopt policies regarding the technology that are consistent with state law, including requiring audits on an annual or more frequent basis. James said the readers would help his department better secure campus. Tailei Qi, who is accused of fatally shooting professor Zijie Yan on Aug. 28, was a graduate student at the university. James said at a press conference on Aug. 29 that police believed Qi drove to campus on the morning of the shooting, then fled by foot after allegedly killing Yan in Caudill Laboratories, leaving his car in place. He was later arrested in a residential area off campus. Streamlining on-campus cameras James also offered suggestions related to on-campus surveillance cameras, including ensuring more areas of campus are covered by cameras and streamlining and consolidating the universitys camera systems. We have a number of different camera systems on campus, and were trying to look at a way that we can consolidate that to, more or less, simplify access and create quick access to cameras during emergencies, James said. James did not address which areas of campus lack cameras or say specifically where he wants to see them installed. When The N&O previously requested surveillance video of Caudill Labs from the day of the shooting, the universitys public records office said no such records existed. We just want to ensure that we have cameras in the places that they need to be, and try to just prevent or reduce the number of blind spots that we have on campus, James said. James also said he wants to maintain and enhance his departments relationship with other law enforcement agencies, including the State Bureau of Investigation and local agencies in Orange County. James said he would like to offer training exercises for officers in those agencies to come to campus and become more familiar with its layout. More than a dozen law enforcement agencies, including other campus agencies from N.C. Central University and N.C. State University, responded to the Aug. 28 incident. James also highlighted his departments preexisting and ongoing efforts to assess the security of campus buildings through surveys that include ensuring classroom and building locks are functioning properly, as well as offering emergency training for anyone on campus that requests it. How the university solicited feedback The university does not currently require faculty or students to participate in active shooter training. James told The N&O last week that it is absolutely best practice to have as many people trained as we possibly can, but said any mandates for training would need to be decided by university leadership. UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz said at a faculty council meeting on Sept. 8 that the university will assess whether more required trainings should be considered, with input from faculty and others. No changes to training at the university have been announced. In the days immediately following the Aug. 28 shooting, the university established a phone hotline for community members to contact with concerns or questions about the incident. Darrell Jeter, the universitys director of emergency management and planning, told trustees Thursday that the hotline received 203 calls while it was open, with about half of those coming from parents and about one-quarter coming from students. About 20% of calls were related to the universitys response to the incident. The university also provided an online portal to field feedback on its response to the shooting. The portal, which launched minutes before a second gun-related incident locked down the campus on Sept. 13, closed last week. The News & Observer has requested the responses through that form from the universitys public records office, but the request has not yet been fulfilled. TULARE COUNTY, Calif. (KGPE/KSEE) Unlicensed contractors are facing a suspicion of multiple charges as they are being found unlicensed in the work field in Tulare County according to state board officials on Wednesday. The Contractors State License Board, the Tulare County District Attorneys Office, and the California Department of Insurance recently carried out a series of undercover sting operations. The primary objective of these operations was to clamp down on unlicensed contractors operating within Tulare County. According to State Board officials, the stings took place in September and resulted in 14 individuals receiving a Notice to Appear in criminal court for allegedly operating without the required contractors license. Each suspected unlicensed person provided bids that exceeded the legal limit of $500 for unlicensed contracting practices, with estimates ranging from $1,200 for a flooring job up to $13,000 for concrete work. California law states it is illegal to bid on or undertake a construction project valued over $500, including labor and materials without an appropriate license. State officials say the concrete bid also included a down payment request of $5,000, well above the legal limit, and other suspects requested excessive down payments before work began. According to California law, contractors should only request a maximum of 10% of the home improvement projects total cost or $1,000, whichever amount is less. Violation of this condition is stated to be a misdemeanor, and penalties may include fines up to $5,000 or one year in jail, or both. Police say suspects may face additional charges due to unlawful advertisement practices. All unlicensed contractors are required to display their license number on all materials related to their business, such as advertisements, vehicles, and business cards. Police add that non-compliance with this requirement could result in a first-time offense fine of up to $1,000. Performing contractor services without a valid contractors license is considered a misdemeanor in California and provides for substantial penalties, including fines as high as $15,000 and possible jail time, said David Fogt, the Contractors State License Board Registrar. State Board officials have now issued four stop-work orders during the operation, halting work at job sites where contractors failed to provide workers compensation insurance for their employees. For further information or to report suspected unlicensed contractor activities, please visit the Contractors State License Board website. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com. Yesenia Alvarado holds her daughter, Medicaid patient Melanie Almaraz, 2, while waiting to see Dr. Alberto Vasquez for treatment of a fever at Su Clinica Familiar in Harlingen, Texas on Jul. 9, 2013. ( Credit: Eddie Seal for The Texas Tribune Almost 900,000 Texans have lost Medicaid since April and a backlog of applications has piled up, overwhelming the system and setting off a ripple effect that advocates worry is delaying families access to SNAP food benefits. During the pandemic, federal regulations prohibited states from removing people from Medicaid, and more than 5 million Texans were able to access healthcare continuously. But these protections lifted in April and the state quickly began rechecking the eligibility of every individual in the program. In the months since the state launched this unwinding, hundreds of thousands have lost Medicaid coverage. While some individuals have become ineligible because their incomes increased or they were children who aged out of the program, a majority more than 600,000 have been disenrolled in Texas because of procedural errors, according to KFF, a health policy research organization. This includes everything from sending in applications in the mail a day late to not including the correct documentation. Without access to medical care, those who rely on the states health insurance mainly children, but also women who recently gave birth and disabled adults are left in anxious limbo where one health emergency could strap them with heavy debt. Every parent worries about their child getting hurt or seriously ill, said Michelle Castillo, deputy director for nonprofit Childrens Defense Fund, at a news conference this week. That fear is magnified when your child's Medicaid case is in limbo. The reverberations of state employees being overwhelmed has led to Texans also losing access to their SNAP, or the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, after pandemic protections lifted in March. Around 3.5 million Texans depend on food benefits. People are experiencing long delays getting their applications approved and other people may be losing benefits if their renewals don't go through accurately, said Celia Cole, CEO of the nonprofit Feeding Texas. It just really increases demand at a time where food banks are already facing a kind of food supply crisis and already struggling to keep up. Before the pandemic, SNAP eligibility was checked twice a year. Currently, the waiting period for having an application reviewed is 100 days. The federal standard is 30 days. Its the same humans and the same computer system that does the processing of these applications, Stacey Pogue, a senior policy analyst at Every Texan, said. Its like squeezing a balloon on one part then the problem goes to the other part. Even if they did have renewals and Medicaid running really well, it really puts extra pressure on an understaffed and broken system. According to an HHSC report from September, 54,000 Texas Medicaid applications submitted just in the month of March still hadnt been processed as of August. As far as the computer system, it's never worked properly, said Ilesa Daniels, a recently retired HHSC employee of 32 years and a member of the Texas State Employees Union, at a news conference. Almost every day, there are issues with the program itself, which takes even more time and then it overburdens and overtaxes the workers, and then we have a shortfall of them. Texas has disenrolled the most people from Medicaid of any state, according to KFF. Vulnerable groups including former foster children, mothers who arent two months postpartum and children who are citizens with undocumented parents have been denied as they attempt to participate in the renewal process, according to a whistleblower letter written by Texas Health and Human Services employees who did not name themselves, signing off only as Concerned Texans and Dedicated Employees. These anonymous whistleblowers have written three letters to state officials, including Cecile Young, commissioner of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission and Gov. Greg Abbott. Abbotts office did not respond to a request for comment. In past months, at least 90,000 people were also accidentally booted from coverage because of a system glitch but the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, which goes by the acronym CMS, worked with the state to restore their care, HHSC spokeswoman Tiffany Young said. This month, 24,000 children were erroneously removed because of a different system glitch. Through HHSCs quality assurance process, the agency identified Medicaid recipients who had their coverage terminated in error, worked systematically to reinstate coverage for all impacted Medicaid recipients and informed CMS, Young said. HHSC meets weekly with CMS to ensure that the redetermination process operates as smoothly as possible and informs CMS of any issues as they arise. The state has made some changes to address the chaos; the most recent group of people to have their eligibility redetermined will have 60 days to return an application instead of 30. It is a helpful small step, Prague said, but it doesn't respond to the level of crisis and the level of errors and the level of dysfunction. It doesn't help with backlogs. It doesn't help with computer errors. It misses the mark. It's simply not expansive enough to respond to the urgency and the scale of harm. Texas Democratic Congressional delegation wrote a letter urging the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to require the state to pause all denials based on procedural errors and require an audit of the states system to bring it into compliance. U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Austin, who signed the letter, said late Tuesday that Abbott could do something to address the wrongful coverage denials but had remained indifferent, so federal authority is needed to step in. It's imperative that the Biden Administration use its authority to demand accountability and require a pause until a complete audit and corrective action can be completed, Doggett said at a news conference. Harris County Commissioner Adrian Garcia, who was also present at the same news conference, added that more than half of all kids in Harris County rely on Medicaid for their health care, and the county is bearing the financial burden of providing care for the uninsured. Our hospitals, doctors and health care providers are also struggling with increased uncompensated care, putting a strain on safety net health care services and the entire system, he said. This has created chaos and uncertainty for many families. It's either incompetence or cruelty. Neither option reflects well on Governor Abbott. Part of that safety net is federally qualified community health centers, which are required to provide care for all patients, including those without insurance. But these centers began financially suffering and some are being overwhelmed with requests for help, said Jana Eubank, executive director for the Texas Association of Community Health Centers. We have to have some paying patients, we cant sustain that indefinitely. If our numbers get a lot worse, I really am concerned that some of our health centers might have to close their doors, Eubank said. With the looming federal shutdown, if CMS is unable to provide oversight, unfortunately, I think some of these things are going to just continue to happen. Another 1 million Texans received notices mailed out on Sept. 9 to begin their Medicaid renewal process. Although the state agency has indicated it believes most individuals in this group remain eligible for Medicaid, many are worried that errors will subject them to the same results. Cathy Moore, executive director of ECHOS, which helps immigrants and refugees in the Houston area apply for services, said she is seeing more and more people who are frustrated and have to sometimes revisit her agency in need of help. It's becoming very clear that there are large numbers of people that are being denied that shouldn't be, Moore said. Its also very clear the unwinding was done in such a way that it's not going to be successful for the state or for the people who are enrolled in services. To check if you qualify and apply for Medicaid or or still have access to care, you can either call 211 or check the Your Texas Benefits website. You can also check SNAP benefits at the Your Texas Benefits website. Neelam Bohra is a 2023-24 New York Times disability reporting fellow, based at The Texas Tribune through a partnership with The New York Times and the National Center on Disability and Journalism, which is based at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University. Disclosure: Every Texan, Feeding Texas, Texas Association of Community Health Centers and New York Times 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. BOSTON (WWLP) A federal grand jury has indicted a Massachusetts man on charges stemming from an in-flight incident in March, during which he was accused of trying to stab a flight attendant with a broken spoon. Francisco Severo Torres, of Leominster, was indicted in a Boston federal court on Wednesday. He faces one count of interference and attempted interference with flight crew members and attendants using a dangerous weapon. The 33-year-old was arrested at Boston Logan International Airport on March 6 after he allegedly tried to open an emergency exit door while aboard a United Airlines flight from Los Angeles to Boston. He is also accused of attempting to stab a flight attendant in the neck. Im going to kill everybody: Woman recounts United passengers violent outburst Prosecutors say the flight crew became aware of the plane door becoming disarmed about 45 minutes prior to landing in Boston. Another flight attendant reported seeing Torres near the door, and believed he had been the one tampering with the handle. When asked about the door, Torres allegedly responded by asking if there were cameras showing that he had done so, according to a press release issued by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Massachusetts. The suspect later became disruptive and said he planned to kill every man on this plane before declaring he was taking over this plane, according to the release. Video previously shared with Nexstars WPRI allegedly shows the suspect racing down the aisle toward a small group of people. He then appears to assault one of those people. Court documents indicate Torres attempted to stab a flight attendant on the neck area three times with a broken spoon. A witness told WPRI the suspect was then tackled by a bunch of other passengers. As he was running down the aisle, 10 to 15 men on the plane just got up and started chasing him, Lisa Olsen said. [The men] tackled him and restrained him It took four guys to just sit on him since he was still erratic and screaming. Suspicious: Flight attendant found dead in airport hotel with cloth in mouth, police say Members of the flight crew further subdued the suspect afterward, she said. He was arrested upon the flights arrival in Boston, according to court documents. If found guilty, Torres could face a sentence of up to life in prison, up to five years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. The House Oversight Committee's first hearing for the impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden got off to a rocky start Thursday as the Republican witnesses' testimony appeared to hurt the committee more than help and frustration set in in the chamber. In his written testimony to the committee, Jonathan Turley, a George Washington University Law School professor pulled by Republicans as a key witness for the hearing, called into question the evidence Republicans have claimed to gather against Biden, who they allege benefitted from his son, Hunter Biden's, overseas business dealings during his vice presidency. "I have previously stated that, while I believe that an impeachment inquiry is warranted, I do not believe that the evidence currently meets the standard of a high crime and misdemeanor needed for an article of impeachment," wrote Turley, who has testified at impeachment hearings for former Presidents Bill Clinton and Donald Trump, and, as he noted in the document, substantiated the two articles of impeachment during the latter's inquiry that the House later adopted. He reiterated this statement during the hearing, testifying to the committee that he, in fact, does not "believe that the current evidence would support articles of impeachment." George Washington University law professor and Republican witness Jonathan Turley says that if a vote to impeach President Joe Biden happened today, he would vote "no" due to lack of evidence: "At the moment, these are just allegations." pic.twitter.com/CdC553i2Am CSPAN (@cspan) September 28, 2023 While Turley based his support for the opening of a formal inquiry into the elder Biden on the evidence Republicans touted, outlined in the written testimony, and polls reflecting the public's levels of concern over the president's alleged misconduct, he declared that his appearance before the committee Thursday would not be to discuss any evidence of President Biden's wrongdoing himself, leaving that task to the other witnesses. His testimony, instead, set out to advise the committee on the "historical and legal aspects of this inquiry" by offering a perspective of the "guardrails" for launching them in hopes of prompting the House to "restore important procedural and due process protections" to the process that he believes recent impeachment inquiries have departed from. Restoring these safeguards "will demand something that is never easy for a majority, namely, voluntarily accepting limits on their own ability to impeach," Turley wrote. "However, the committees carrying out this inquiry could repair what I view as an erosion of best practices in the investigation of presidents." Despite Turley's citation of polls indicating in his written testimony the public's "deep distrust" of the Justice Department's ability to fairly investigate the president and his son, a national NBC News survey found that 56% of registered voters do not support the committee holding impeachment hearings for President Biden. An overwhelming majority of those who oppose the hearings are Democrats. 73% of Republicans, meanwhile, support the proceedings. Six in 10 independents oppose the proceedings, while 29% believe Congress should carry them out. Unlike during the Trump era, NBC News notes, the prospect of Biden's impeachment is less influential for current voters with half of them saying their congresspeople's votes to impeach and remove Biden from office "would make no difference either way" in how they might vote in their local congressional races in 2024. In December 2018, 34% noted their legislators' votes on whether to impeach Trump would not influence their vote. Just as Turley declined to provide any evidence to the committee, the other Republican witnesses did not either, as Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., established during the hearing. Ocasio-Cortez first asked Turley if he would be "presenting any first-hand witness account of crimes committed by the president of the United States." After the legal scholar responded in the negative, she asked the same of the two remaining Republican witnesses forensic accountant Bruce Dubinsky and Eileen O'Connor, an attorney of federal administrative and tax law. They both responded, "I have not." AOC: Mr. Turley, simple question for you. In your testimony today, are you presenting any first-hand witness account of crimes committed by the president of the United States? Turley: No, I'm not. pic.twitter.com/nuevF8Nn7N Acyn (@Acyn) September 28, 2023 "I shouldn't have asked Turley a question," Republican Rep. Lauren Boebert reportedly complained to an aide on Thursday. "He was a crappy witness." Other Democratic committee members further questioned the absence of evidence from the witnesses with one asking why Rudy Giuliani, the former New York mayor-turned-personal attorney for Trump, wasn't called to testify given his previous side quest in Ukraine to find information on the elder Biden. After his motion to subpoena Rudy Giuliani fails, Rep. Mfume (D-MD) asks, "Where is Rudy Giuliani?!" while holding up a sign saying the same. He also makes some spirited remarks, saying Republicans are playing games amid a looming government shutdown. pic.twitter.com/gsgrPRVRsK CSPAN (@cspan) September 28, 2023 "When I walked into this hearing room, my first question was, 'Where's Rudy Giuliani?'" Rep. Stephen Lynch, D-Mass., said. "This is supposed to be an inquiry on the facts against the president for potentially an impeachment, articles of impeachment," Lynch continued. "The one person, the one person, who was an agent of President Donald Trump, was sent to Ukraine to dig up dirt, find some dirt on Joe Biden. "Just like [Trump] said to the election officials in Georgia, 'find me 11,780 votes.' [He said to Giuliani] 'Find me some dirt on Joe Biden.' And we do not have him here? We are not allowed to ask him questions," Lynch added before reading off a transcript of a call between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. In the exchange, Trump is "actually placing Rudy Giuliani in Ukraine with the imprimatur of authority for the president," Lynch said, addressing minority witness, Michael Gerhardt, a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill law professor. "Professor Gerhardt, would it not be helpful to have a factual witness here?" "It seems obvious he should be brought before the committee," Gerhardt responded. Law professor Michael Gerhardt recites Rep. Jim Jordan's (R-OH) reasons for the impeachment inquiry and refutes them, saying they are not grounds for impeachment. pic.twitter.com/5VefgY8Ylk CSPAN (@cspan) September 28, 2023 Frustration also consumed the GOP during the impeachment hearing, according to CNN, who were aggravated by their witnesses' testimony countering their narrative and saying that there's no evidence of Biden's crimes. "Picking witnesses that refute House Republicans arguments for impeachment is mind blowing. This is an unmitigated disaster," a senior Republican aide told CNN Capitol Hill reporter Melanie Zanona. NEW: Frustration in the GOP over 1st impeachment hearing, as the GOP witnesses undercut their narrative &say no evidence of crimes. Picking witnesses that refute House Republicans arguments for impeachment is mind blowing. This is an unmitigated disaster," said senior R aide. Melanie Zanona (@MZanona) September 28, 2023 When Rep. Dan Goldman, D-N.Y., did call a point of order during the hearing to present evidence, however, House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., refused to recognize it. "You're out of order, Mr. Goldman," Comer said, speaking over the representative, who asserted that he should be able to call the point of order, and insisting on giving the floor to Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., to speak. "I have a point of order. I asked to introduce something by unanimous consent. Is it being introduced?" Goldman asked Comer, who continued to steamroll over him and call for Donalds to speak. "The rules require you to recognize me," Goldman added. "No," Comer responded flatly before the two briefly continued the back-and-forth about the point of order. "Mr. Chairman, can I just make a parliamentary inquiry then. Are we not to make points of order on either side during the questioning?" Goldman asked once Comer returned attention to Donalds. "You keep speaking about no evidence. Why don't you all just listen and learn?" Comer replied. "I'm trying to introduce evidence!" Goldman explained, seemingly hardening his tone in frustration. "You've already had your share of evidence," Comer responded before returning focus to Donalds. Fox anchor: I have been following these hearings I don't know what was achieved over these last six-plus hours None of the expert witnesses presented any proof for impeachment pic.twitter.com/amHKikzAhB Biden-Harris HQ (@BidenHQ) September 28, 2023 House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced the impeachment inquiry to be led by the House Judiciary, Oversight and Ways and Means committees into the president earlier this month following House Republicans' months-long investigation into the president that, notably, failed to kick up any substantial evidence of the elder Biden's wrongdoing with regards to his son's activities. His decision to launch the inquiry added fuel to the firey tensions in the House GOP with his colleagues split over whether an impeachment inquiry into the president alongside the far-right members' intense focus on Hunter Biden's personal legal woes is necessary. The Mecklenburg County courthouse has reopened after a bomb threat forced an evacuation Thursday afternoon, according to the Mecklenburg County Sheriffs Office. After a thorough search no threat has been found, sheriffs officials said in a 2:41 p.m. post on X, formerly known as Twitter. The courthouse and the streets surrounding the courthouse are now open. Deputies and K9 units had conducted a thorough search at the uptown building, located at 832 E. Fourth St., at 12:57 p.m., according to a prior post. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Departments bomb unit assisted, CMPD spokesperson Mike Allinger said in a message. By Michael Martina WASHINGTON (Reuters) -China is manipulating global media through censorship, data harvesting and covert purchases of foreign news outlets, the United States said on Thursday, warning the trend could lead to a "sharp contraction" of global freedom of expression. The U.S. State Department said in a report that Beijing has spent billions of dollars annually on information manipulation efforts, including by acquiring stakes in foreign media through "public and non-public means," sponsoring online influencers and securing distribution agreements that promote unlabeled Chinese government content. The U.S. report comes amid controversy over China's efforts in recent years to expand the global footprint of its government-controlled media, especially as geopolitical competition between Beijing and Washington has intensified. Chinese leaders have sought to combat the negative images of China they feel are spread by world media. Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for China's embassy in Washington, said the report was about heightening ideological confrontation and "smearing China's domestic and foreign policies." "Written with a Cold-War mentality, the report is just another tool to keep China down and buttress American hegemony. China is strongly against such moves," Liu said. Citing public reports and "newly acquired government information," the State Department's Global Engagement Center said Beijing had created its own information ecosystem by co-opting foreign political elites and journalists. It had also invested in satellite networks and digital television services in developing regions that prioritize Chinese state-backed media content. Chinese data harvesting overseas "has enabled Beijing to fine-tune global censorship by targeting specific individuals and organizations," it said. "Unchecked, Beijing's efforts could result in ... a sharp contraction of global freedom of expression," the report said. Despite unprecedented resources devoted to the campaign, Beijing had encountered "major setbacks" when targeting democratic countries, due to local media and civil society push-back, according to the report, which was produced under a congressional mandate to detail state information manipulation. (Reporting by Michael Martina; Editing by Cynthia Osterman and David Holmes) By Daphne Psaledakis WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States on Thursday will announce it has deployed a Disaster Assistance Response Team in the South Caucasus region to coordinate the U.S. humanitarian response to the crisis after Azerbaijan took back control of Nagorno-Karabakh last week. The team, first reported by Reuters, will assess the situation, identify priority needs to scale up assistance, and work with partners to provide urgently needed aid, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) chief Samantha Power will say in a statement seen by Reuters. "The United States is deeply concerned about the safety of vulnerable populations in Nagorno-Karabakh and the more than 50,000 people who have fled to Armenia," Power said in the statement. Power traveled to Armenia and Azerbaijan this week following Azerbaijan's defeat of the breakaway region's fighters in a conflict dating from the Soviet era. She said Washington would stand in solidarity with Armenia and that it was essential the international community gained access to Karabakh, amid reports of unknown numbers of people being injured and requiring evacuation, or lacking food and other essentials. "Last weeks unacceptable military operation has made an already dire humanitarian situation even worse," Power said, calling on the Lachin Corridor that connects the region to Armenia to remain fully and permanently open. The Armenians of Karabakh - part of Azerbaijan that had been beyond Baku's control since the 1991 dissolution of the Soviet Union - began fleeing this week after their forces were routed in the operation by Azerbaijan's military. The Armenians are not accepting Azerbaijan's promise to guarantee their rights as the region is integrated. The Nagorno-Karabakh leadership told Reuters the region's 120,000 Armenians did not want to live as part of Azerbaijan for fear of persecution and ethnic cleansing. Armenia said that by Thursday morning, 65,036 people had crossed into its territory. Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev has pledged to guarantee the safety of Karabakh's Armenians but said his "iron fist" had consigned the idea of the region's independence to history. "Azerbaijan must protect civilians, uphold its obligations to respect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all individuals in its country, and ensure its forces comply with international humanitarian law," Power said. (Reporting by Daphne Psaledakis; Editing by Peter Graff) A new round of sanctions targeting international companies and individuals supporting Irans production of Shahed attack drones was declared on Sept. 27 by the U.S. Department of Treasurys Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). It was the ninth such sanction package aimed at deterring the proliferation of attack drones from Iran to Russia and other destabilizing actors." Despite the existence of these sanctions, international companies have still found ways to bypass them and continue to do business, including supplying drone components, with Iran and Russia. The newly sanctioned entities and individuals are located in Iran, Turkey, China, Hong Kong, and the United Arab Emirates. They have been allegedly involved with the illicit transfer of parts to Iran. Some of them, such as HongKong Himark, have explicitly sought to disguise that Iran was the recipient of the transfers through the falsification of documents, according to the Treasury Department. As a result of the sanctions, all transactions 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 are prohibited. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Travelers wait in lines at LaGuardia Airport after hundreds of flights were delayed or grounded in New York Travelers wait in lines at LaGuardia Airport after hundreds of flights were delayed or grounded in New York By David Shepardson WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg warned on Wednesday that a partial government shutdown could disrupt air travel and said the government would need to furlough 1,000 air traffic controllers in training. If Congress does not fund government operations before Saturday, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) estimates it would have to furlough more than 17,000 employees and halt the training. "Especially when it comes to transportation, the consequences would be disruptive and dangerous," Buttigieg said at a press conference. Past federal government shutdowns caused "significant delays and longer wait times for travelers", the White House said. The U.S. Travel Association said a partial shutdown would cost the U.S. travel economy as much as $140 million a day. During a government shutdown, the U.S. air travel system would be "hampered by more flight delays, longer screening lines and setbacks in air travel modernization," the group said. Air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security officers are among the government workers who would be required to keep working but would not be paid. Earlier this month, the FAA said it would again extend cuts to minimum flight requirements at congested New York City-area airports through October 2024, citing staffing shortages. Under minimum flight requirements, airlines can lose their takeoff and landing slots at congested airports if they do not use them at least 80% of the time. The FAA in August said it met its yearly goal of hiring 1,500 controllers but is still about 3,000 controllers behind staffing targets. About a quarter of controllers are not yet fully certified. A government watchdog report said in June that air traffic operations were at risk. In several places, controllers were working mandatory overtime and six-day work weeks to cover shortages. If Congress does not separately reauthorize the operations of the FAA, it would prevent the government from collecting airline ticket taxes. In 2019 during a 35-day shutdown, the number of absences by controllers and TSA officers rose, extending checkpoint wait times at some airports. The FAA was forced to slow air traffic putting pressure on lawmakers to end the standoff. (Reporting by David Shepardson; editing by Grant McCool) By Monica Nickolai The Theatre Association of Daejeon Metropolitan City presented domestic and international talent in its 14th Daejeon International Play Festival (DIPFE) from Sept. 8 to 26 in various Daejeon playhouses and an outdoor stage in a public park. The festival featured highly awarded talent from around the world. Plays were chosen by open call as well as recommendations. Because many theatrical productions applied, it was difficult to select only a few of the good ones, Kim Seok-Kyu, head of the operation team of Daejeon Theatre Association, said in a statement translated from Korean to The Korea Times. The theme of the festival was "Beyond the Horizon," selected to reference overcoming fear within the pandemic era. The theme was also intended to promote exchanges with poorer countries that have barriers to overcome and that have not previously been represented in the festival. Shows by international talent included subtitles in Korean and English and Q&A sessions conducted in Korean and English. The play "Fragile Balance" was performed solo by actor Mircea Silaghi with the Tony Bulandra Theatre from Romania. It is my fifth time in Korea and the third time in Daejeon," Silaghi said. "And it gets better every time. We have a beautiful relationship as a theatre with the Korean Theatre Association and hopefully we will go on with this collaboration. His one-man show was based upon a poem written by the famed French writer Jean Genet to his deceased lover. Although the text of the play purports to be about acrobatics and was performed on a set resembling a circus ring, the underlying message is about art, the risks that artists must take and, ultimately, love. Silaghi, who has performed the play in French, Romanian and English, finds inspiration in the memory of Francois Jacob, the director who originally introduced the script to him and who has since passed away. I think of him before every show, he said. You have to enjoy every moment. Not even tragedy should be played having the cemetery in our hearts. A tragedy of Shakespeares was reimagined inventively by British actor Emily Carding of the Brite Theatre in "Richard III: A One-Person Show." After collaborating with director Kolbrun Bjort Sigfusdottir on a previous Shakespearean adaptation, the two secured a residency at Tjanarbio Theatre in Reykjavik, Iceland, where they workshopped the piece. The five-act play was adapted to be performed solely by the titular character who continuously breaks the fourth wall by inviting audience members to stand in silently for the plays other characters. They are then systematically slain by Richard III, who affixes stickers that read DEAD to them. The play premiered at Prague Fringe, where it won every available award. Since then, Carding has performed the show in Italy, the U.S., Pakistan, Russia, Slovakia and Romania. Its a powerful show with elements that seem to translate well across cultures and language gaps and also an easy show to travel with," Carding told The Korea Times. "I think its my strongest work and after touring with it to so many different places around the world, I was confident that I could bring something exciting and different in Shakespearean performance that people would not have experienced before, and that they would hopefully enjoy. The Iraqi play "Amal," performed in Arabic, also brought prestigious award-winning talent into Daejeon. It won in three categories of the 41st Fajr International theatre Festival in Tehran, including best director and best play, and received two honorable mentions. In the play, a couple who fell in love in college, sharing a mutual appreciation of poetry, descend into mental chaos as a result of living in an environment steeped in violence, destruction and death. The wife, Amal, is in the process of seeking an abortion as the couple confronts the complexities of raising a child in their brutal environment. After the performance in a Q&A with the audience, the cast and crew explained through their tearful translator that Amal means hope in Arabic and that despite the plays darkness, their artistic vision is to ignite hope for future generations. Other international plays included "Ala" from Iran, "Amy Winehouse" from Turkey, "The Scavenger" from Indonesia and "Hold my Hand Rovin" from Turkey. The plays were well-received by members of the international community. After attending the festival, Dr. John Riley, who teaches drama classes at SolBridge International School of Business in Daejeon and creates English-language community theatrical productions, said, It shows there's still an appetite for art that's challenging yet accessible at the same time. Festivals like this one have the potential to get different groups of interested and talented people coming together. James Knaack, a local resident who saw "Ala," declared that it was a revelation that he felt fortunate to experience and that actor Shima Tafarzaden gave an electrifying performance. He also said, Id welcome more chances for festivals of this kind in the future. Although domestic plays were in Korean only, members of the Daejeon Theatre Association said they want to have subtitles for English-speaking audiences starting next year. They hope overseas tourists will attend future festivals. Monica Nickolai is a writer and artist. Her text-based artwork has appeared at exhibitions in the U.S., Europe and Korea. She currently lives in Daejeon and teaches at Hongik University's Sejong Campus. Visit monicanickolai.com for more information. Workers at a U.S. research base in Antarctica are now banned from buying alcohol at bars, a change that follows a series of sexual misconduct claims. But, researchers and support staff at McMurdo Station will still be able to purchase a weekly ration of alcohol from the station store, the National Science Foundation (NSF), the federal agency that oversees the program, confirmed to The Associated Press. The ration allows the workers to purchase the equivalent of 18 beers each week, three bottles of wine, or a 750 milliliter (25 oz.) bottle of spirits. The decision comes after an investigation by the AP last month revealed several women at the base were left to fend for themselves against offenders after claiming sexual harassment or assault. Some of the cases that were investigated showed alcohol played a large role, though the NSF said the changes are connected to the morale and welfare at the base, not at preventing sexual harassment or assault. In an already isolated environment, the bars at McCurdo Station have served as a major part of the researchers and support staffs social life. The new rules, which go into effect Sunday, will only permit researchers to order alcohol-free drinks at the two main bars on base, Southern Exposure and Gallaghers Pub. They can bring their own alcohol to the bars, however, the AP reported. The Coffee House which also served alcohol on the base will be entirely alcohol-free, but it will remain open all day and night for workers. The NSF also said it is launching new measures aimed at preventing sexual harassment and assault, which include enhanced training, a new survey for data and trend monitoring and visits to the ice from experts. In a 2022 report, the agency found nearly three-fourths, 72 percent of female respondents, and almost half, 48 percent of men, said they believe sexual assault is a problem with the base community. The population at the station is made up of around 70 percent male workers. Following the APs investigation, the NSF sent a message to U.S. Antarctic Program workers. We know that it can be difficult to hear these accounts. It is for us, they wrote, referring to the assault claims. These are not experiences we want anyone to have within the USAP (or anywhere else in the world). The email, obtained by the outlet, included the new anti-harassment measures the NSF intends to put in place. The Associated Press contributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. By Daphne Psaledakis WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The United States on Thursday imposed sanctions on two companies, including one based in Russia, and one person it accused of exacerbating instability in Sudan as fighting has killed thousands and displaced millions of civilians. The action is the latest round of sanctions imposed by Washington after war between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) broke out in April over plans for a political transition and the integration of the RSF into the army, four years after long-time ruler Omar al-Bashir was overthrown in a popular uprising. "Today's action holds accountable those who have undercut efforts to find a peaceful, democratic solution in Sudan," the Treasury Department's Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Brian Nelson, said in a statement. "We will continue to target actors perpetuating this conflict for personal gain." The Treasury said it targeted Ali Karti, the foreign minister under Bashir, who became leader of the Sudanese Islamic Movement after Bashir was toppled in 2019. He is a prominent figure among loyalists and veterans of Bashir's Islamist rule who have maneuvered to protect their interests and regained some leverage after a 2021 coup by the army and the RSF. The Islamists have backed the army in its fight against the RSF, with some, including former intelligence operatives, joining the army's ranks. "(Karti) and other hardline Sudanese Islamists are actively obstructing efforts to reach a ceasefire to end the current war between the SAF and RSF and opposing Sudanese civilians, efforts to restore Sudan's democratic transition," the Treasury said. Also hit with sanctions was GSK Advance Company, a Sudan-based company the Treasury said has been used as a procurement channel for the RSF. GSK worked with Russia-based military supply company Aviatrade, also targeted on Thursday, to arrange the procurement of parts and supplies, as well as training, for drones previously purchased by the RSF, the Treasury said. The RSF has long cultivated its closest foreign ties with the United Arab Emirates and Russia. An RSF advisor, Mostafa Mohamed Ibrahim, told Al Jazeera on Thursday that the force had no relation with the two sanctioned companies. Karti's Sudanese Islamic Movement issued a statement saying it sought stability for Sudan and that sanctions imposed by the United States were a "badge of honour". Karti was in Sudan when the war broke out but his current whereabouts are unclear. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a separate statement said Washington had taken steps this week to impose visa restrictions on people believed to be part of efforts to undermine Sudans democratic transition, including Sudanese Islamists and former officials, as well as others suppressing human rights and involved in other actions. Thursday's sanctions follow measures taken against the deputy leader of the RSF earlier this month and sanctions the U.S. imposed in June on companies it accused of fuelling the conflict. The action freezes any U.S. assets of those targeted and generally bars Americans from dealing with them. Those that engage in certain transactions with them also risk being hit by sanctions. (Reporting by Daphne Psaledakis in Washington and Aidan Lewis in London; Editing by Ros Russell, Daniel Wallis and Deepa Babington) This is a locator map for Sudan with its capital, Khartoum. (AP Photo) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) CAIRO (AP) The United States imposed sanctions Thursday on a former Sudanese government minister and two companies tied to the African country's paramilitary force that is locked in monthslong fighting with the Sudanese army. The sanctions imposed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury will block all property in the U.S. and entities owned by Sudan's former Foreign Minister Ali Karti, Sudan-based information company GSK Advance Company Ltd, and the Russia-based military company Aviatrade LLC. Sudan plunged into chaos in mid-April when long-simmering tensions between the military, led by Gen. Abdel Fattah Burhan, and the Rapid Support Force paramilitary, or RSF, commanded by Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, escalated into open warfare. The Treasury said both sanctioned companies have been supporting the RSF in its fight against the military. It said the two have worked together to procure parts and supplies, as well as training for unmanned aerial vehicles and monitoring equipment for the paramilitary force following the outbreak of the conflict. From 2010 to 2015, Karti was foreign minister under the country's former Islamist autocrat Omar al-Bashir who was ousted in a popular uprising in April 2019. He and other hard-line Sudanese Islamists are actively obstructing efforts to reach a cease-fire to end the current war ... and opposing Sudanese civilians efforts to restore Sudans democratic transition, the Treasury said. The Rapid Support Force has accused the Sudanese army of harboring hard-line Islamists, something the military has denied. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a separate statement on Thursday that Karti had led efforts to undermine the former civilian-led transitional government and derail the roadmap to transition to democracy following al-Bashir's ouster. Sudan's democratic transition began in July 2019 but was derailed in October 2021 when the Sudanese army and RSF together mounted a coup that removed a Western-supported, power-sharing administration. Numerous attempts to restart the transition failed as the army and RSF failed to find common ground on key issues. Thursday's sanctions are the latest the U.S has imposed on Sudan's leaders and companies. Earlier this month it blocked all U.S. property and entities owned by commander Abdelrahim Hamdan Dagalo, the brother of the paramilitary force's leader. It also imposed visa restrictions on fellow RSF commander, Abdul Rahman Juma, barring him from entering the U.S. Blinken has accused both Abdelrahim Hamdan Dagalo and Juma of human rights abuses, and said Juma's forces were likely responsible for kidnapping and murder of the former governor of West Darfur province in June. Khamis Abdalla Abkar, the ex-governor, was killed hours after he spoke in a phone interview with Saudi-owned television station Al-Hadath and accused the paramilitary and allied militias of attacking local communities in West Darfurs capital of Geneina. In June, Washington also imposed sanctions against four key companies that are either linked to or owned by the army and the paramilitary. It also placed visa restrictions on officials from both warring factions in Sudan, and also on former officials in al-Bashir's government, but did not specify who was affected. Last month, Amnesty International said both sides have committed extensive war crimes in the ongoing conflict. The fighting has reduced the capital, Khartoum, to an unban warzone. In Khartoum and the surrounding areas of the Sudanese capital, RSF troops have commandeered civilian homes and turned them into operational bases, while the military has responded by bombing residential areas, rights groups and activists say. In Sudan's 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. At least 5,000 people have been killed and more than 12,000 have been wounded since the fighting erupted in spring, the U.N. says. However, doctors' groups and activists say the true number is likely far higher. The US State Department issued a striking warning in a report on Thursday accusing the Chinese government of expanding efforts to control information, disseminate propaganda and disinformation that promotes digital authoritarianism in China and around the world. President Xi has significantly expanded PRC efforts to shape the global information environment, the report says, alleging that China spends billions of dollars a year on foreign information manipulation. Xi has pressed PRC state media to strengthen their propaganda efforts and tailor precise communication methods to influence foreign audiences globally. The report from the Global Engagement Center, which combats foreign propaganda and disinformation, warns China has the potential to reshape the global information environment. It underlines US concerns about China not just as its main military competitor but as a key rival in the battle over ideas and disinformation globally. Beijing would develop a surgical capability to shape the information particular groups and even individuals consume. And the international information landscape would feature significant gaps and inherent pro-PRC biases, the almost 60-page report concludes. What weve learned is that there is a dark side to globalization, and if we dont allow this information manipulation to be stopped, theres going to be a slow steady destruction of democratic values, and the secure world of rules and rights, said Special Envoy and Coordinator of the Global Engagement Center James Rubin at a press briefing on Thursday. Chinese Embassy spokesperson Liu Pengyu said he could not currently comment on the reports details but claimed in a lengthy statement it was spreading disinformation. A quick look at its summary is enough to know what it is about: heightening ideological confrontation, spreading disinformation, and smearing Chinas domestic and foreign policies, he said. Written with a Cold-War mentality, the report is just another tool to keep China down and buttress American hegemony. The Chinese efforts are both overt and covert and the promotion of its control tactics have a particular focus on Asia, Africa and Latin America, the report says while detailing several examples and their effects. According to the report, as of late 2020 the owner of the massively popular social media app TikTok, ByteDance, maintained a regularly updated internal list identifying people who were likely blocked or restricted from all ByteDance platforms, including TikTok, for reasons such as advocating for Uyghur independence. ByteDance directed that specific individuals be added to this list if they were deemed to pose a public sentiment risk, likely to prevent criticism of the PRC government from spreading on ByteDance-owned platforms, it adds. In an East African country, the Chinese government struck an agreement with a local newspaper and the newspaper agreed that the [PRC-] paid articles would not have a direct connection to the PRC. In Lithuania, phones made by PRC company Xiaomi were pre-programmed to remotely censor around 450 phrases used by users, including Free Tibet and democracy movement. In 2021, 24% of European smartphones were Xiaomi. Between 1997 and 2022, Beijing initiated cyberattacks against and threatened the families of more than 5,500 overseas Uyghurs, the GEC report says, citing a study from the Woodrow Wilson Center. Governments mainly across Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa detained 1,150 Uyghurs and returned 424 to the PRC, according to the Woodrow Wilson Center The PRC has also ratcheted up cooperation with Russia to spread disinformation about Ukraine, the report says, and Beijing routinely echoes the Kremlins claims like its argument it is de-nazifying Ukraine. The report attempts to conclude on a hopeful note, saying that Bejings efforts have encountered major setbacks in democratic countries. But if the PRCs vast operations are not countered, it finishes, China will encounter less resistance to reshaping the international order to the detriment of individual liberties and national sovereignty around the world. We dont want to see an Orwellian mix of fact and fiction in our world that will destroy the secure world of rules and rights that the United States and much of the world relies upon, said Rubin. This story has been updated with comment from the Chinese Embassy in the US. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com U.S. jails are outsourcing medical care and the death toll is rising U.S. jails are outsourcing medical care and the death toll is rising By Emma Farge GENEVA (Reuters) -U.N. human rights experts have called for major reforms of the U.S. criminal justice system to combat systemic racism, citing testimonies that jailed Black women had been shackled during childbirth while male inmates were forced to work in "plantation-style" conditions. In a report published on Thursday, three U.N.-appointed experts said they had found practices in U.S. prisons that amounted to "an affront to human dignity" in visits in April and May. The U.S. diplomatic mission in Geneva declined to comment. The Federal Bureau of Prisons said it was committed to ensuring the safety and security of incarcerated individuals as well as employees and the public. One such practice is restraining and shackling women prisoners during childbirth, the report said. The experts "heard, first hand, unbearable direct testimonies of pregnant women shackled during labour, who due to the chaining, lost their babies", it said. Asked to give details, a U.N. rights spokesperson referred to "several" cases and confirmed they all involved Black women. The experts also collected direct testimonies of conditions at a Louisiana prison where it said thousands of mostly Black male prisoners were "forced to labour in the fields (even picking cotton) under the watch of white 'freemen' on horseback, in conditions very similar to those of 150 years ago". It described the stories from the so-called 'Angola' facility as "shocking" and said they amounted to "contemporary forms of slavery". It also voiced alarm at the widespread use of solitary confinement, which it said appeared to be applied disproportionately to inmates of African descent. One Black man told the experts he had been kept in isolation for 11 years without interruption, the report said. "Our findings point to the critical need for comprehensive reform," said one of the experts, Juan Mendez. U.S. prison conditions have been a concern for decades and rights groups have long called for facilities with the worst records to be reformed or shut down. The investigation was set up by the U.N. Human Rights Council, of which the United States is a voting member, in 2021 after the killing of George Floyd, a Black man who died after his neck was pinned to the ground by a police officer. The report was based on testimonies from 133 individuals in five U.S. cities as well as those collected from five detention centres. It contained a list of 30 recommendations for U.S. authorities, including a call for a new commission on reparations for people of African descent. (Reporting by Emma Farge; Editing by Kevin Liffey and Timothy Gardner) Man holds laptop computer as cyber code is projected on him in this illustration picture By Kantaro Komiya TOKYO (Reuters) - U.S. National Security Agency, Federal Bureau of Investigation and Japanese police jointly warned multinational companies of China-linked hacker group BlackTech in a cybersecurity advisory late on Wednesday. The joint advisory, which also came from the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and its Japanese counterpart, urged firms to review the internet routers at their subsidiaries to minimise the risk of potential attack from the group. "BlackTech has demonstrated capabilities in modifying router firmware without detection and exploiting routers domain-trust relationships to pivot from international subsidiaries to headquarters in Japan and the United States, which are the primary targets," the statement said. BlackTech has been engaging in cyberattacks on governments and tech-sector companies in the United States and East Asia since around 2010, Japan's National Police Agency said in a separate statement. In 2020, self-ruled Taiwan's security authority reported cyberattacks to some 6,000 government officials' email accounts from Blacktech and another hacking group Taidoor, saying both were likely backed by the Chinese Communist Party. Amid heightening U.S.-China tensions over issues including Taiwan, U.S. security officials are raising the tone of their warnings against China's cyberattack capabilities. FBI chief Chris Wray earlier this month said China "has a bigger hacking program than every other major nation combined". In May, cybersecurity authorities of Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United Kingdom joined the U.S. agencies in issuing an advisory on China's "state-sponsored cyber actor". Japan, a key U.S. ally in East Asia along with South Korea, was allegedly attacked by Chinese military hackers that gained access to its classified defence networks in 2020, the Washington Post said last month. The Pentagon said it was confident about sharing intelligence with Japan despite the report. (Reporting by Kantaro Komiya; Editing by Michael Perry) By Patricia Zengerle WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Senate Foreign Relations Committee's new chairman on Thursday said he would look at Turkey's $20 billion Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter jet deal and that more issues than Sweden's ascension to NATO would affect the decision on lifting his predecessor's longstanding hold. "I need to talk to the administration on a lot of these issues, because it's beyond just one issue involved, and I need to understand that," Senator Ben Cardin, a Democrat, told reporters, one day after he took over leadership of the influential panel. Cardin said he had discussed Sweden's NATO accession with Turkish officials at a NATO ambassador's meeting on Wednesday. "They claim that will be done in the first part of next month," he said. "If that is in fact true, then at least we have the NATO issue resolved, but there are other issues in addition to just NATO accession that need to be part of our discussions as we move forward." The previous chairman, Senator Bob Menendez , had blocked the sale for months, over Turkey's objections to Sweden joining NATO but also over President Tayyip Erdogan's human rights record and overflights of the airspace of neighboring Greece. Senate rules forced Menendez to step down as leader of the committee after prosecutors announced he and his wife, Nadine Menendez, faced felony bribery charges. Leaders of the U.S. Senate and House foreign affairs panels review every major foreign arms sale. They regularly ask questions or raise concerns over human rights or diplomatic issues that can delay or stop such deals. Ankara has held out on the ratification of Sweden's NATO membership for months, accusing Stockholm of doing too little against people Turkey sees as terrorists, mainly Kurdish members of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK). Erdogan said in July he would forward the ratification to parliament when it reopens in October, frustrating some members of Congress who said he could have called it back into session to move Sweden's NATO membership. After Menendez's indictment was unsealed, Erdogan said Turkey should turn the senator's legal troubles into an opportunity to purchase the fighter jets. "Menendez being out of the picture is an advantage," Erdogan was quoted as telling reporters by Turkish media. Sweden and Finland applied last year to enter NATO after Russia invaded Ukraine. While Finnish membership was sealed in April, Sweden's bid remains held up by Turkey and Hungary. Turkey has said Ankara and Budapest are working in close coordination on the issue. The top Republican on the Senate panel, Senator Jim Risch, has put a hold on arms sales to Hungary over the issue. (Reporting by Patricia Zengerle; editing by Jonathan Oatis) By Lee Hae-rin The education ministry distributed new guidelines to schools and kindergartens across the country, including one banning parents from recording school classes without consent, the ministry said Wednesday. The guidelines are aimed at better protecting the rights of teachers in the classroom. The new measures were also announced amid a growing social upheaval triggered by the suicides of several teachers in recent months. Many educators, who have taken to the streets following the tragic suicides of colleagues, believe that serious harassment and infringement of teachers rights by some parents led to their deaths. According to the ministrys guidelines, parents may not record classes or teacher-student conversations without the teacher's consent. Breaking this regulation is in violation of the Protection of Communications Secrets Act, and violators can be reported to an investigative body. The guidelines also ban students from using not only smartphones but any other mobile information technology devices, including smart watches, tablet computers and laptops in classrooms. Teachers will be able to physically restrain or block the movement of a student in the event that they display problematic behavior that goes against school regulations. The guideline also says parents should call teachers during their working hours only if they want to discuss matters involving their children, and schools should not reveal teachers' personal phone numbers by connecting incoming calls to office numbers. Teachers educational guidance based on these guidelines are justifiable practices protected by law, Education Minister Lee Ju-ho said. The ministry will continue to support educators to make sure they can guide their students without fear. By Moira Warburton and David Morgan WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Democratic-led U.S. Senate forged ahead on Thursday with a bipartisan stopgap funding bill aimed at averting a fourth partial government shutdown in a decade, while the House began voting on partisan Republican spending bills with no chance of becoming law. The divergent paths of the two chambers increased the odds that federal agencies will run out of money on Sunday, furloughing hundreds of thousands of federal workers and halting a wide range of services from economic data releases to nutrition benefits. The House of Representatives passed three of four bills funding parts of the government, though the partisan bills would not alone prevent a shutdown, even if they could overcome strong opposition from Senate Democrats and become law. The Senate earlier in the day had voted 76-22 to open debate on a stopgap bill known as a continuing resolution, or CR, which would extend federal spending until Nov. 17, and authorize roughly $6 billion each for domestic disaster response funding and aid to Ukraine to defend itself against Russia. The Senate measure has already been rejected by Republicans, who control the House. House Republicans, led by a small faction of hardline conservatives in the chamber they control by a 221-212 margin, have rejected spending levels for fiscal year 2024 set in a deal Speaker Kevin McCarthy negotiated with Biden in May. The agreement included $1.59 trillion in discretionary spending in fiscal 2024. House Republicans are demanding another $120 billion in cuts, plus tougher legislation that would stop the flow of immigrants at the U.S. southern border with Mexico. The funding fight focuses on a relatively small slice of the $6.4 trillion U.S. budget for this fiscal year. Lawmakers are not considering cuts to popular benefit programs such as Social Security and Medicare. McCarthy is facing intense pressure from his caucus to cut spending and achieve other conservative priorities. Several hardliners have threatened to oust him from his leadership role if he passes a spending bill that requires any Democratic votes to pass. The House defeated a bill on agriculture funding by a 237-191 margin. Twenty-seven of McCarthy's Republicans rejected it, mostly moderates in competitive districts who were worried about steep cuts to funding, as well as a provision limiting access to abortion medication. Former President Donald Trump has taken to social media to push his congressional allies toward a shutdown. McCarthy, for his part, suggested on Thursday that a shutdown could be avoided if Senate Democrats agreed to address border issues in their stopgap measure. "I talked this morning to some Democratic senators over there that are more aligned with what we want to do. They want to do something about the border," McCarthy told reporters in the U.S. Capitol. "We're trying to work to see, could we put some border provisions in that current Senate bill that would actually make things a lot better," he said. The House Freedom Caucus, home to the hardliners forcing McCarthy's hand, in an open letter to him on Thursday demanded a timeline for passing the seven remaining appropriations bills and a plan to further reduce the top-line discretionary spending figure, among other questions. "No Member of Congress can or should be expected to consider supporting a stop-gap funding measure without answers to these reasonable questions," the letter, led by the group's chair, Republican Representative Scott Perry, read. 'ONE OPTION TO AVOID A SHUTDOWN' The Senate measure has passed two procedural hurdles this week with strong bipartisan support. "Congress has only one option - one option - to avoid a shutdown: bipartisanship," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on Thursday. "With bipartisanship, we can responsibly fund the government and avoid the sharp and unnecessary pain for the American people and the economy that a shutdown will bring." Credit agencies have warned that brinkmanship and political polarization are harming the U.S. financial outlook. Moody's, the last major ratings agency to rate the U.S. government "Aaa" with a stable outlook, said on Monday that a shutdown would harm the country's credit rating. Fitch, another major ratings agency, already downgraded the U.S. government to "AA+" after Congress flirted with defaulting on the nation's debt earlier this year. (Reporting by Moira Warburton and David Morgan, additional reporting by Susan Heavey and Jeff Mason; Editing by Scott Malone, Alistair Bell and Jonathan Oatis) The value and excitement of the New Hampshire presidential primary is created during the unscripted moments between voters and candidates. For more than 100 years, these exchanges have ensured the people vying for our nations top elected office have heard and understood the hopes and fears of Americans who dont normally have such personal access to their leaders. In 2016, cries from the hearts of mothers and fathers across New Hampshire ensured future nominees Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton fully understood the pain and devastation of the opioid crisis in the state and nation. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic limited in-person campaigning, but in 2023 we have seen the great tradition come roaring back with a particularly robust Republican primary chock full of compelling candidates. In keeping with that tradition, Seacoastonline and the USA TODAY Network will host 2024 Republican presidential candidates Oct. 10-15 in a series of events at the historic Exeter, New Hampshire, Town Hall. The town hall forums will be streamed on Seacoastonline.com the website for the Portsmouth Herald, Foster's Daily Democrat, Exeter News-Letter and Hampton Union along with USA TODAY and the nationwide USA TODAY Network. In December 2007, Executive Editor Howard Altschiller welcomed U.S. Sen. John McCain to a Seacoast Media Group town hall with voters in Portsmouth ahead of the 2008 presidential primary. McCain went on to win his party's nomination. One frustration weve heard expressed by candidates at primary campaign events is the difficulty in getting their unfiltered message through to voters. At these town halls, voters will have the opportunity to ask questions, and candidates will respond directly. Candidates will share a few opening remarks and then have a conversation with voters. Seacoast Medias publications will report on these exchanges in its New Hampshire-based publications, and USA TODAY and the USA TODAY Network will report the conversation to the nation. Six of the Republican presidential primary candidates have committed to meet with voters between Oct. 10 and Oct. 15: Vice President Mike Pence, former South Carolina Governor and UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, and Texas Congressman Will Hurd. Were continuing our discussions with the remaining campaigns and will publish a final schedule of appearances by candidates in early October. Attendance will be first-come, first-served. The location of the forums is ideal. Candidates will meet with voters in the iconic Exeter Town Hall, which has the distinction of being the only location remaining in New Hampshire where Abraham Lincoln spoke in 1860, just months before launching his presidential campaign. As the Exeter Historical Society reports: On February 29, 1860, Abraham Lincoln having just given an electrifying anti-slavery speech at Cooper Union in New York City arrived in Exeter, (New Hampshire) to visit his son, Robert, a student at Phillips Exeter Academy. After speaking to ever-larger, quickly assembled crowds of New Hampshire citizens in Manchester, Concord, Dover, and Exeter, Lincoln went on to accept his party's nomination for President in May of that year, and then to the White House. Exeter also makes a convincing claim to being the birthplace of the Republican Party, 170 years ago this month. Amos Tuck, who was from Exeter and lived during the mid-1800s, assembled disenchanted political leaders there in 1853 to establish the GOP, according to the Tuck Society, the Associated Press reported. Mike Chaney, then director of the New Hampshire Political Library, told AP in 2004, "The Republican Party was clearly founded here in Exeter on Oct. 12, 1853." Exterior of historic Exeter Town Hall will be the location of the Republican Candidate Town Hall Forums presented by USA TODAY Network and Seacoastonline. The town of Exeter, which owns and operates the historic town hall, has been a helpful and supportive partner in this endeavor. Seacoast Media Group, USA TODAY, and the USA TODAY Network of newsrooms across the country are honored to provide this access to voters in New Hampshire and our readers nationwide. It is our privilege to bring candidates and voters together for an honest and unfiltered dialogue that will help shape American history. In your inbox: Sign up for our OnPolitics newsletter for political analysis, election news and breaking insight The First in the Nation primary is alive and well. Candidates will file to run in New Hampshire from Oct. 11-27. With the second Republican debate now in the rearview mirror, candidates are laser focused once again on the Granite State. As the event draws near, we will bring you profiles of all the candidates, letting you know their priorities for New Hampshire and the nation. Follow our election coverage at USATODAY.com and Seacoastonline.com. Howard Altschiller is Seacoast Media Groups executive editor. He can be reached at haltschiller@seacoastonline.com. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Meet GOP presidential candidates at USA Today town halls in Exeter NH FILE - The Grand Canyon National Park entrance is blocked off, in Tusayan, Ariz., Oct. 8, 2013, because of a partial government shutdown. Arizona's Grand Canyon National Park and all five national parks in Utah will remain open if the U.S. government shuts down, Sunday, Oct. 1, 2023. Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs and Utah Gov. Spencer Cox say that the parks are important destinations and local communities depend on dollars from visitors. (AP Photo/Matt York, File) PHOENIX (AP) Arizona and Utah will keep iconic national parks in those states open if a shutdown of the federal government threatens access to Arizonas orange-striped Grand Canyon and the sheer red cliffs of Utahs Zion Valley. Most importantly for state budgets, visitors can keep spending their money near the parks. A cutoff could come Sunday. The economic impact of the national parks is so important that Arizona's Democratic governor and Utah's Republican governor have decided to invest state funds in keeping Grand Canyon, Zion, Arches, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef and Canyonlands national parks open. For Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs and Utah Gov. Spencer Cox, it's a simple question of economics. The nonprofit National Parks Conservation Association says that every $1 invested in the National Park Service annually supports more than $15 in economic activity. The association says that every day of a shutdown could mean national parks collectively losing nearly 1 million visitors, and gateway communities losing as much as $70 million. Hobbs and Cox say their states will pay to keep those parks operating on a basic level, cushioning tourism-dependent communities. We expect to be reimbursed, just as federal employees receive back pay during a shutdown, and we have communicated this to the Department of Interior, Cox said this week. Hobbs has said Arizona Lottery funds would help keep the Grand Canyon park open. Utah paid about $7,500 daily during the last part of December 2018 to keep Zion, Bryce Canyon and Arches running during a shutdown back then. The nonprofit Zion Forever Project committed $16,000 to pay a skeleton crew and keep bathrooms and the visitor center open at Zion, which continued drawing several thousand visitors daily. The National Parks Conservation Association noted that keeping parks open during a shutdown without sufficient staff and other resources can be disastrous. We witnessed unnecessary and avoidable damage, including overflowing trash and human waste, vandalism, looting and illegal use of off-road vehicles, the organization said about some sites during the 2018-2019 shutdown. Conditions at Joshua Tree National Park in California were described as especially bad, with overflowing trash and portable toilets and unsupervised visitors driving off road and toppling incalculable numbers of the distinctive plants. Sen. John Barrasso , a Republican representing Wyoming, on Thursday urged Interior Secretary Deb Haaland to keep the parks open with previously collected fees. The decision by Trump administration officials to use such fees to keep some parks open five years ago has been lambasted as illegal by the Government Accountability Office, the congressional watchdog. The Interior Department and the National Park Service it oversees have not released a contingency plan for a probable shutdown. As secretary of the Interior, it is your responsibility to provide opportunities for people to access our parks in a way that ensures visitor health and safety, as well as providing the same opportunity for future generations," wrote Barrasso, ranking member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Arizona paid about $64,000 a week during the shutdown that stretched 35 days from late 2018 to early 2019 to cover restroom cleaning, trash removal and snow plowing at the Grand Canyon park. People with permits to hike in the backcountry or raft on the Colorado River could still go, but no new permits were issued during that period. National park employees who were not furloughed had to work without pay, their lost wages repaid after a budget resolution was reached. Those expected to work in another potential shutdown include members of Grand Canyon National Park's emergency services, which has teams trained in medical services, search and rescue and firefighting to protect not only visitors but about 2,500 park workers, concession employees and others who live on park property. Joelle Baird, the park's public affairs specialist, said Arizona state funding kept most everything business as usual during the shutdown five years ago. She said hotels and restaurants remained open. John Garder, senior director of Budget & Appropriations for the nonprofit National Parks Conservation Association, said funding the parks is a federal responsibility that states shouldn't have to assume. We understand states interest in opening our parks when the government shuts down as they are proven economic engines, generating more than $50.3 billion and supporting more than 378,400 jobs annually, Garder said. "But ultimately, it is Congress responsibility to keep them funded and open. The association said the shutdown could affect more than 400 sites in 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam and American Samoa. In South Dakota, Gov. Kristi Noem was reviewing a shutdown's possible impact on national parks, including Mount Rushmore, which Noem spokesperson Ian Fury called the heart of South Dakotas tourism industry. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis issued an executive order Thursday directing the state's Department of Natural Resources to develop a plan for continued operations and resource protection of Colorados national parks. Rocky Mountain and the state's other three national parks contributed $804 million to the local economy last year. In Washington state, home to Mount Rainier and Olympic national parks, Gov. Jay Inslee has no plans to provide more funding or staff to national parks if there's a shutdown. Inslee's staff said much of governors discretionary spending was needed this year for cleanup and recovery after wildfires in Spokane County. Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte's office didn't say if the state would spend money to keep Glacier or Yellowstone national parks open. But his staff said the Republican governor's budget team is working with state agencies to prepare for a possible shutdown in the event Congress cant get its act together." Most of Yellowstone is in Wyoming, but three of the five entrances are in Montana. Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon is awaiting more information from Interior and White House officials to better understand the states options, spokesperson Michael Pearlman said. Pearlman said the Republican governor was also in contact with officials at Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks, recognizing that closures could have significant economic repercussions to Wyoming families that live and work in our gateway communities. Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsoms administration said this week it doesnt plan to keep national parks open if the federal government shuts down, saying they are not within state jurisdiction and the state has had to make difficult budgetary decisions this year. ___ Associated Press writers Ed Komenda in Olympia, Washington; Amy Beth Hanson in Helena, Montana; Matthew Brown in Billings, Montana; Jesse Bedayn in Denver; Tran Nguyen in Sacramento; and Matthew Daly in Washington contributed to this report. Nicholas P. Lovrich, professor emeritus and regent at Washington State University, speaks during the To Respectfully Disagree: Civility in Government presentation at the University of Utahs Hinckley Institute in Salt Lake City on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. | Laura Seitz, Deseret News Theres ample evidence of the nations deep divisions. This is the situation we find ourselves in: People screaming at one another. People are wondering, How is it that we got to this place? Weve been experiencing a pretty long period of being able to get along, in the moderate middle really calling the shots. When that sort of goes away, then you start worrying about things even as deep down as civil war, said Washington State University Regents and Emeritus Professor Nicholas P. Lovrich. Lovrich, a panelist on a University of Utahs Hinckley Institute of Politics forum titled To Respectfully Disagree: Civility in Government, said the nation has gone through long periods of bad conduct in the past. Weve had a duel. Weve had a caning on the floor of the Senate. Weve had periods of time when we were so divided in (our) politics that it led to a lot of violence in the streets, Lovrich said on Wednesday. Historians remind us that American history is not a moderate middle all the time, he said. Thats actually a rarity. Weve had more periods of extended conflict, partisan conflict, deep division. Were in one of those periods now, Lovrich said. By some measures, the state of Utah stands out for its high civility. Lovrich pointed to the 2020 television advertisement by Utahs gubernatorial candidates Democrat Chris Peterson and Republican Gov. Spencer Cox that aired prior to the election. We can debate issues without degrading each others character, said Peterson. We can disagree without hating each other, said Cox. And win or lose, in Utah we work together, said Peterson. So lets show the country theres a better way, said Cox. He also lifted up the Dignity Index efforts underway among the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, the David Eccles School of Business, and the Hinckley Institute. A team of 22 students from politically and ideologically diverse backgrounds coded passages in Utah political campaigns. The Gardner Institute noted two key takeaways: people of differing political backgrounds could code passages with consistency. Also, the pilot highlighted that the Dignity Index could prompt personal reflection and behavioral change and increase awareness of actions that can be taken against division. The work is ongoing. William D. Schreckhise, professor and chair of the University of Arkansas Department of Political Science, speaks during the To Respectfully Disagree: Civility in Government presentation at the University of Utahs Hinckley Institute in Salt Lake City on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. | Laura Seitz, Deseret News If the nations history suggests there have been other periods of discord, what difference does it make? William D. Schreckhise, professor and chairman of the University of Arkansas Department of Political Science, said his and others research about state legislatures suggests urban states with less income inequality tend to be more civil. They also tend to lack term limits or otherwise have less turnover states with term limits for their state legislature. State legislators tend to have more turnover in the first place, but even states without term limits that have a lot of turnover, tend to be less civil as well, Schreckhise said. Lawmaker compensation also appears to play a role in enhanced civility but there are some indications that better staff support for the legislators may reduce civility maybe because their staff are doing the work that needs to get done and the legislators more have more time to squabble among themselves, he said. Civility and polarization impact legislative bodies ability to get their work done, Schreckhise said. When youre looking at the probability of passing a budget on time, we found that the level of civility in a state can actually compensate for the level of polarization in a state. The more polarized the state is, the less likely it is to pass a budget on time. But that is less true for more civil states, he said. Related The remarks come as Congress is laboring to avert a government shutdown over political divisions over how to fund federal agencies for fiscal year 2024. Americans are also bracing for another presidential campaign some observers say could be as contentious as the last. Cox, as the newly installed chairman of the National Governors Association, has launched an initiative intended to help address the nations toxic polarization. Americans are tired of the nasty and endless bickering that characterizes our politics and gets in the way of solving our biggest problems, Cox said in a press release. Republican or Democrat, liberal or conservative, we all love this country, and it is critical that we find common ground and constructive ways to work together to solve our challenges. We can debate ideas without attacking each other. Lovrich said Washington states former Secretary of State Sam Reed challenged him to get to the bottom of the nations discord because it was having such a dramatic impact on how secretaries of states were able to carry out their duties overseeing fair elections. Reed told him, Our state is falling apart. Our ability to do work is falling apart. My ability as secretary of state was to bring together leadership from both parties when we had to really make a tough decision and figure out what the best place to be and get everybody to follow along. But something changed and those discussions werent happening any more, Lovrich said. Somethings going wrong, and we need to get to the bottom of it, Reed said. The research is ongoing, Lovrich said. The Venezuelan opposition leader once recognized as the interim president of the country will be teaching at a South Florida university. Juan Guaido, who was recognized as the legitimate president of Venezuela by the United States and dozens of countries until early 2023, will be a visiting professor at Florida International University, according to a post he made on X, formerly known as Twitter. Gracias al @FIU y al centro Adam Smith por la invitacion a formar parte desde hoy en la nueva cohorte del Senior Leadership Fellows Program como profesores visitante. Una nueva etapa y una oportunidad para hablar de los retos de defender la democracia, de resistir a una pic.twitter.com/fZjv2Bkjsa Juan Guaido (@jguaido) September 26, 2023 Its a new platform and opportunity to talk about the challenges of defending democracy, resisting a dictatorship and supporting the most vulnerable, he said in Spanish on X. Guaido, 40, will be a senior leadership fellow at the Adam Smith Center for Economic Freedom, which FIU describes as a world-class, independent, non-partisan think tank with a mission to advance economic and individual freedom and human prosperity. He will be at FIU for the fall semester and will conduct eight study group sessions, in addition to mentoring students, conducting research and being part of public conferences and seminars. He will be paid $40,000, FIU said. Guaidos biography on the website describes him as a widely recognized leader worldwide who transcended borders by demonstrating an unwavering commitment to democracy. Overall, his vision, leadership and extensive experience make him a key player in the development and analysis of committed and transformative perspectives, not only for Venezuela, but for the global political scenario, his profile says. A brief look at Guaido A household name in South Floridas Venezuelan diaspora, Guaido, an engineer by trade, was the figurehead of the countrys democratic movement from January 2019 to January 2023. He was considered the interim president of Venezuela after the Venezuelan National Assembly declared that Nicolas Maduro had usurped the presidency. Venezuelas opposition parties have controlled the National Assembly since 2015, when the last elections seen as free and fair were held. Support for Guaido eroded over the years as other opposition leaders expressed frustration that his term as interim president failed to oust Maduros and provide a democratic transition. In April 2023, Guaido said Colombian authorities threatened to turn him over to Maduro after entering the country for a forum about the Venezuelan crisis. The Biden administration helped Guaido leave Colombia and come to Miami. In May, his wife and two daughters joined him in Miami. Read more: Family of Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido meets him in the United States Miami Herald staff writers Michael Wilner and Antonio Maria Delgado contributed to this report This story was updated to reflect what Guaidos position would entail, based on new information from FIU. President Yoon Suk Yeol visited Incheon International Airport, west of Seoul, Thursday, and stressed the importance of trade for the South Korean economy, his office said. On the first day of the Chuseok holiday, Yoon visited Korean Air's cargo terminal at the nation's main gateway to encourage workers and receive a briefing on the cargo industry and its development plan. "As a market of 50 million people is not enough for our economy to further grow and develop, we have to increase exports and imports," Yoon was quoted as saying by his spokesperson Lee Do-woon. "People's economic activities are not possible without air freight. Our economy circulates thanks to you, so take pride in your work," Yoon told the workers. He was accompanied by senior officials, including Transport Minister Won Hee-ryong and Choi Sang-mok, senior presidential secretary for economic affairs. (Yonhap) The duties of a home health nurse vary from administering medication and monitoring vital signs to assisting with daily activities. AARPs new Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) Scorecard finds that more than three years after the COVID-19 pandemic began, care provided in the United States for older adults and people with disabilities is painfully inadequate. The report finds that major gaps persist in every state, including Virginia, especially related to support for family caregivers, worker wages, nursing home staffing, transportation and housing. Ranking #28 in the country, Virginia has made some progress in improving care options for older adults, including providing Medicaid for low-income people with disabilities and in the supply of available assisted living facilities, the report finds. However, the report shows there is still much more to be done to keep up with the rapidly changing needs of an aging population. "Too many Virginians rely on a long-term care system that struggles and often fails to keep them and their loved ones healthy and safe," said AARP Virginia State Director Jim Dau. "The AARP Scorecard shows that lawmakers and industry providers have plenty of opportunities to improve care and better meet the needs of all Virginians." KEY FINDINGS Family caregiving Dozens of states experienced declines in the number of care choices that help support families managing caregiving. For instance, 21 states, including Virginia, experienced declines of 10% or more in adult day services since 2016, and 16 states, had declines of 10% or more in access to home health aides since 2019. Only six states provide a tax credit for family caregivers out-of-pocket expenses. Family caregivers on average spend $7,242 per year on out-of-pocket costs. Only seven states have statewide laws protecting caregivers from discrimination in the workplace that ensure they are not unfairly treated due to caregiving duties outside of work. Twelve states have enacted paid family leave laws and 18 states have paid sick day laws, which can be used for caregiving. Home and Community-Based Services There has been a surge in older adults receiving long-term care at home, rather than in nursing homes and other institutions. For the first time, more than half (53%) of Medicaid LTSS spending for older people and adults with physical disabilities went to Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS). This is up from 37% in 2009. HCBS includes support for home health care aides, respite services, assistive technology and home modifications and other services. The average annual per person cost of home care in 2021 was $42,000. Eleven states had state policies that improve presumptive eligibility for Medicaid HCBS at the time of data collection, making it possible for people to go home to receive care after being in the hospital rather than having to be admitted to a nursing home while their eligibility for Medicaid payments is being determined, the report said. Many states have large numbers of people with low care needs living in nursing homes, indicating a lack of HCBS access and services. Nursing homes and Institutional Care A major workforce crisis exists in nursing home care. Across all states, wages for direct care workers are lower than wages for comparable occupations, with shortfalls ranging from $1.56 to $5.03 per hour. In Virginia wages are $3.96 lower than other entry level jobs. Nationally, only 22% of nursing home residents live in a facility with a 5-star rating; only about 12.5% of Virginia residents live in a 5-star facility. Gaps in workforce and equity result in persistent problems in care. For instance, about 10% of nursing home residents nationwide experienced a pressure sore. About 12.5% of Virginia nursing home residents get pressure sores. Pressure sores can be life-threatening as they can lead to bone or joint infections, cancer, and sepsis. Only nine states have enhanced hazard mitigation plans for natural disasters and other emergencies to address the needs of vulnerable older adults and people with disabilities, including for nursing home residents. COVID-19 tested our long-term care systems, and they failed. Now is the time to take the lessons weve learned to fix them, for the sake of saving lives, said Susan Reinhard, senior vice president, AARP Public Policy Institute. AARPs LTSS Scorecard shows some progress and innovation, but theres still a long way to go before we have systems that allow people to age well and independently for as long as possible and support the nations 48 million family caregivers. Recommendations Key recommendations from the report and AARP to strengthen support for long-term care and aging at home: Prioritizing saving time, money, and increasing support for the 48 million family caregivers, who are the backbone of the long-term care system, providing over $600 billion in unpaid care, such as with paid leave, tax credits, and other mechanisms to address health and financial needs. Investing in all aspects of Home and Community-Based Care infrastructure, such as increasing support and training for home health aides and home visits, supporting the ability to access and use medical devices and equipment, and updating key Medicaid regulations and payment models. Bolstering the nursing home and in-home care workforce, with improved recruitment and training, increasing pay, and expanding the ability of trained nurses, aides, community health workers and other paraprofessionals to take on some aspects of care. States can choose to enact and enforce staffing and related care standards. Expanding the use of innovative, effective models for nursing homes can improve both quality of care and quality of life, such as with smaller facilities and private rooms. Addressing inequities by investing to close the staggering gaps in access to quality care and facilities and staffing shortages. Virginia Scorecard The Scorecard includes a series of 50 indicators focused on 1) affordability and access; 2) choice of setting and provider; 3) safety and quality; 4) support for family caregivers; and 5) community integration, using data from a variety of publicly available sources, such as the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services, American Community Survey and Bureau of Labor Statistics. This article originally appeared on Staunton News Leader: AARP: Virginia #28 in the country for nursing home care, services During Wednesday night's Republican presidential debate, candidates re-upped their calls to close and militarize the U.S.-Mexico border, "defund sanctuary cities," and deport undocumented immigrants. They overwhelmingly pushed for harsh and ineffective policiesbut one candidate pushed a plan that isn't just bad but very likely illegal. "I favor ending birthright citizenship for the kids of illegal immigrants in this country," said Ramaswamy . "Nobody believes that the kid of a Mexican diplomat in this country enjoys birthright citizenshipneither does the kid of an illegal migrant who broke the law to come here." Ramaswamy is wrong on the latter point. The 14th Amendment "gives birthright citizenship to children of undocumented immigrants and visa holders" if they're born on U.S. soil, wrote Ilya Somin , a law professor at George Mason University, in 2018. "Even if that were not the case, the power to grant citizenship is a congressional power, not an executive one." Somin isn't alone: As he said, there is an "expert near-consensus on this subject," which "is backed by longstanding Supreme Court precedent, going back to United States v. Wong Kim Ark (1898)." The case affirmed that all people born on U.S. soilwith the exception, Somin wrote, of kids born to "foreign diplomats, soldiers of invading armies, and (at the time) certain members of Indian tribes"were afforded citizenship by the 14th Amendment. What's more, the Constitution grants Congress, not the president, the authority to "establish an uniform Rule of Naturalization." When former President Donald Trump proposed ending birthright citizenship "with an executive order" in 2018, Damon Root responded that Trump's plan "would be flatly unconstitutional." And going beyond procedure, "the U.S.-born children of both legal and illegal immigrants clearly qualify for birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment." Though Ramaswamy goes particularly far, saying that he'd deport the U.S.-born children of undocumented immigrants, other Republican presidential candidates share his general view on birthright citizenship. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has said that he wants to "end the idea that children of illegal aliens are entitled to birthright citizenship if they are born in the United States." Likewise, a spokesperson for former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley told the Daily Caller in June that she "opposes birthright citizenship for those who enter the country illegally." The Republican candidates have reignited a debate over birthright citizenship that Trump brought into the spotlight during his first term. As with many aspects of the modern GOP's immigration debate, candidates are embracing formerly fringe Trump-era ideas in an attempt to look tough. Ramaswamy didn't specify the exact mechanism he'd use to end birthright citizenship. But the president simply doesn't have the authority to redefine who the 14th Amendment applies to, and his reading of the Constitution flies in the face of a 125-year-old precedent. The post Vivek Ramaswamy Proposes a (Probably) Illegal Plan To End Birthright Citizenship appeared first on Reason.com. In their first impeachment hearing, Republicans sought to smear President Biden with totally debunked claims straight out of 2019. This is an impeachment inquiry without basis, looking for a reason to exist. After six hours of grasping at straws and, in some cases, fabricating evidence, Republican insiders were privately admitting to reporters this was an "unmitigated disaster." Before we dive into the substance of the hearing, its important to frame a few things upfront. After fearing for his job, Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) unilaterally opened this politically motivated impeachment inquiry based on zero evidence and without a full House voteafter promising he wouldnt unilaterally open one without a full House vote. This was a capitulation to the far-right extremists within his caucus in a desperate effort to cling on to his Speakership. There is absolutely zero evidence linking Joe Biden to Hunter Bidens business dealings. Nor is there any evidence indicating that Biden used his political positions of power to aid Hunter in his dealings. Nothing in todays hearing proved otherwise. In fact, Republicans own witnesses undermined their narrative. Republican Witnesses Say There Is No Evidence To Support Impeachment None of the witnesses that were present at the hearing were fact witnesses to the conduct being alleged. Two Republican witnesses went as far as to say there wasnt enough evidence to justify impeachment. Georgetown Law Professor Jonathan Turley, a Republican favourite witness, told lawmakers, "I do not believe that the current evidence would support articles of impeachment," but he made a caveat to say that he believes an inquiry is justified. Turleys written statement was even more explicit, though: "I do not believe that the evidence currently meets the standard of a high crime and misdemeanor needed for an article of impeachment." Another Republican-called witness also undermined the GOPs claims. Bruce Dubinsky, a forensic accountant, told the committee that there is no evidence connecting Joe Biden to illicit activities. House Democrats witness, Professor Michael Gerhardt, said that there is no evidence to justify this impeachment inquiry, period. Gerhardt used an analogy to describe this inquiry, stating that its as if Hunter Biden was pulled over for speeding in a car owned by Joe Biden, and they want to give Joe Biden the speeding ticket. A Recycled Conspiracy Theory Republicans acknowledge this impeachment inquiry exists to try and find evidence they dont have. Theyre openly digging for dirt on Biden at the request of Donald Trump , who has called for Bidens impeachment ahead of their 2024 election face-off. One could argue that Republicans are simply continuing the scheme Trump began in 2019 when he extorted Ukraine in an effort to pursue a probe of Biden. Theyre literally using the exact same conspiracy theories. In an indication of how little evidence Republicans have garnered over the years, they began Thursdays hearing with a re-litigation of the same unsubstantiated and debunked Burisma claims that were being made against Joe Biden during the Donald Trump impeachment trial of 2020. Before Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) expertly began to debunk the GOPs claims, he put the hearing in perspective: "So lets get it straight. Were 62 hours away from shutting down the government of the United States of America, and Republicans are launching an impeachment drive based on a long-debunked and discredited lie." House Democrats had a literal "Republican Shutdown" countdown clock on a laptop that they kept onscreen at all times to emphasize this point. The lie has, indeed, been long-discredited. As Raskin outlined, when Biden was Vice President, he worked to combat corruption in Ukraine. Biden called for the removal of then-Prosecutor General Viktor Shokin because he *wasnt* investigating corruption, not to protect Burisma. It was part of a broad multilateral campaign to oppose corruption. Distorted Evidence The new "evidence" that Republicans do claim to have involves text messages that do not show any proof that Biden used his position to run an influence-peddling scheme. In fact, some of the evidence was distorted. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez (D-NY) revealed that one of the text messages displayed by Rep Byron Donalds (R-FL) cropped out crucial context. The full conversation showed that Jim Biden, Joe Bidens brother, was talking to Hunter Biden about how hes trying to convince Joe to help pay Hunters alimony. Republicans cut off that context to make it seem like it was about Hunters business dealings. This was an excellent catch by AOC. Not only do Republicans not have any incriminating evidence to justify their impeachment inquiry, but theyre also blatantly distorting the "evidence" they do have. Democrats Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, left, and Jamie Raskin, second left, look on as Republicans James Comer and Marjorie Taylor Greene take part in their first impeachment hearing against President Biden (REUTERS) There was an interesting moment when it came to exculpatory evidence for Biden. Rep Daniel Goldman (D-NY) tried to submit into the record testimony from Devin Archer, Hunter Bidens former business partner. House Oversight Chairman James Comer (R-KY) repeatedly refused to allow the testimony to be entered into the record, finally allowing it only after a few attempts. When you read the transcript, you can see why. It directly contradicts the GOP narrative. In a previously held cross-examination, Daniel Goldman asked Archer: "But [Hunter] did not provide Burisma executives with actual access to his father. The access to his father was an illusion of access to his father. Is that right?" Archer responded: "Right. An illusion of access to his father, other than socials." There you have it. An actual fact witness further confirms that there was never really any real influence peddling, and Joe Biden wasnt directly involved in the business dealings. If influence peddling was really what Republicans were looking to hold to account, they would investigate a different family. Rep Robert Garcia (D-CA) took a moment to spotlight this. Garcia outlined Jared Kushners dealings with Saudi Arabia and the post-Trump administration $2bn funding he received after directly influencing Saudi policies as a Senior White House Advisor. Garcia argues that, if anything, this warrants more scrutiny. Widespread Criticism Of The Hearing Overall, this hearing was a train wreck for Republicans, and they reportedly know it. A few hours into the hearing, CNNs Melanie Zanona reported on frustration among Republicans. She quoted a senior Republican aide: Picking witnesses that refute House Republicans arguments for impeachment is mind-blowing. This is an unmitigated disaster." They have a right to be concerned. As the impeachment hearing came to an end, Fox News anchor Neil Cavuto hit his viewers with straightforward analysis: I dont know what was achieved in these last six plus hours... James Comer, Oversight Committee Chairman, said there would be presented a mountain of evidence... but none of the expert witnesses today presented yet any proof for impeachment." He pointed out that the GOP witnesses said there wasnt enough evidence to impeach Biden and that none were fact witnesses. Former Trump Chief Strategist and right-wing influencer Steve Bannon echoed this on his show. Bannon suggested that starting with witnesses like Turley, who said there is no evidence of impeachable offenses yet, was a mistake. This is important because all of this is a messaging and PR play ahead of the 2024 election in an effort to erode President Bidens support. This impeachment inquiry is an exercise in deflection, distraction, and both-sideism, continuing what Donald Trump sought to accomplish with Joe Biden when Trump extorted Ukraine in 2019. If Republicans can smear Biden as corrupt, then they can make Donald Trump, who is facing 91 criminal charges across four indictments, appear less corrupt to voters. Its the same tactic Trump used against Hillary Clinton to downplay his own corruption. Republicans dont actually believe theyll prove these claims. They just want to muddy the waters. But that requires some mainstream buy-in to make an impact beyond their base. They appear to have blown that with this hearing. Before it even ended, this hearing was being framed negatively in the media. A headline from NBC News read: "House GOPs impeachment witnesses say theres no evidence yet that Biden committed a crime." The Guardians headline laid out the stakes even better: "Shutdown looms closer as Republicans accused of wasting time and fabricating impeachment evidence." Well see if this amounts to anything, but at the moment, there is nothing here. Perhaps Rep Jamie Raskin summed it up best at the end of the hearing, calling it a Seinfeld impeachment: "An impeachment hearing about nothing. After a long hiatus, Wagner Group mercenaries are back on the battlefield, Ukraine's military says. Around 500 fighters from Belarus will help Russian combat operations around Bakhmut. Officials and experts say they're not likely to have much battlefield impact without Yevgeny Prigozhin . Wagner Group mercenaries are back in Ukraine after a lengthy absence from the battlefield. These fighters appear to be some of the best within the Russian ranks, but the threat is still low without their leader, Kyiv's military says. It's been several months since Wagner mercenaries last saw combat in eastern Ukraine. After pulling back from the front lines following the capture of Bakhmut, they staged a short-lived and chaotic mutiny against Russia's defense ministry. In the aftermath, they were either cast into exile in Belarus or offered the opportunity to sign contracts with Moscow's military. And then, as things seemed to be settling down, they lost their ruthless leader Yevgeny Prigozhin in a plane crash. Prigozhin's death at the end of August, exactly two months after the mutiny, led to speculation over what would happen to the mercenaries, especially as Moscow moved to assume more oversight of their activities around the world. US officials said on multiple occasions after the rebellion that Wagner was no longer supporting combat operations in Ukraine. But now, around 500 mercenaries have returned to eastern Ukraine and will be sent into combat on behalf of Russia, Illya Yevlash, a spokesperson for Kyiv's military, said on Wednesday. Insider could not independently verify his assertion. Yevgeny Prigozhin gives an address in camouflage and with a weapon in his hands in a desert area at an unknown location, in this still image taken from video possibly shot in Africa and published August 21, 2023. Courtesy PMC Wagner via Telegram via REUTERS Yevlash told Ukrainian broadcaster RBC-Ukraine that these fighters came from Belarus, where there were around 8,000 mercenaries living in exile at a military camp there and training the country's military. The camp is being disbanded, Yevlash said, as some Wagner fighters are being sent to Africa where Wagner has a foothold supporting several governments and others are being pushed to sign contracts with the Russian defense ministry. In doing this, the fighters are returning to Ukraine to "participate in combat operations, both as instructors and military personnel," Yevlash said. "However," he added, "they will not pose a significant threat like they did before because they don't have their leader, Prigozhin. These individuals are indeed among the most well-trained in the Russian army, but they will not become a game-changer." Conflict analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), a Washington-based think tank that closely tracks the war, noted that Wagner forces are deploying to Bakhmut, a war-torn city in eastern Ukraine where the mercenaries fought for months at a tremendous human cost. They captured the city in May, but amid the bloody campaign led to tensions flared between Wagner and the regular Russian military, ultimately leading to the mutiny. Fighters of Wagner private mercenary group pull out of the headquarters of the Southern Military District to return to base, in the city of Rostov-on-Don, Russia, June 24, 2023. REUTERS/Stringer "Ukrainian and Russian confirmations of some former Wagner Group personnel deploying to the Bakhmut area indicate that the Wagner Group is struggling to cohesively reform around new leadership," the ISW experts wrote in a Wednesday assessment of the current battlefield situation. "The piecemeal deployment of former Wagner personnel to any area of the frontline is unlikely to generate any significant strategic or even localized effects on the battlefield in Ukraine," the experts said. Ukrainian forces have managed to advance in areas around Bakhmut amid their ongoing counteroffensive, and there are promising signs in the southern Zaporizhzhia region as well. Kyiv's troops recently liberated two villages near Bakhmut Klishchiivka and Andriivka and have made small territorial gains along the northwest and southwest flanks of the city. Aerial photographs of the newly liberated villages, which were published on Wednesday by Ukraine's defense ministry, show complete destruction, with homes reduced to nothing but rubble. Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) September 27, 2023 Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) September 27, 2023 Some Ukrainian government officials echoed the assessments from both Yevlash and ISW that the return of Wagner fighters is unlikely to generate any significant battlefield impact. Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, suggested in a social media post on Wednesday that Wagner does not even really exist as a private military company anymore because Prigozhin is dead and Russian military leadership has moved to consolidate control of the organization. "Today, there are only former militants of the terrorist group who have scattered in all directions: Africa, civilian and criminal life in the regions of Russia, or a contract with the Russian Defense Ministry as an agreement to play the last chord, plugging the Russian hole in the Bakhmut direction for a short time," Podolyak said. Read the original article on Business Insider Pet owners in Charlotte will soon have the opportunity to strengthen the bond between them and their four-legged friends by having them blessed at a local church. The Diocese of Charlotte hosts pet blessing events, where pet owners can bring their animals to participating churches and sprinkle them with holy water. But why should pets be blessed? Franciscan Media, a website dedicated to the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron Catholic saint of animals and ecology, puts it like this: The bond between person and pet is like no other relationship because the communication between fellow creatures is at its most basic. Eye to eye are two creatures of love. No wonder people enjoy taking their animal companions to church for a blessing. Church is the place where the bond of creation is celebrated. The Feast of St. Francis Assisi to celebrate the patron saint is on Oct. 4, but pet blessings last from Sept. 30-Oct. 7. Heres a list of pet blessing events in and around Charlotte: If you dont see your church listed, the Diocese of Charlotte recommends checking with your local parish for details about the event. Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) and his colleagues have taken big swings at tech legislation in recent years only to come up short, so hes urging a different approach as Congress looks to regulate artificial intelligence. His pitch: be less ambitious. Everybody up here on the Hill acknowledges the downside of the notion that we're going to simply have the tech guys do the same thing. Well, let us figure it out first and figure out the rules later is, I think, a bad proposition, Warner said in an interview on the POLITICO Tech podcast. I'm very sensitive to the notion that on AI we shouldn't do that, he continued, but if we try to overreach, we may come up with goose eggs meaning nothing. Congress sat on the regulatory sidelines throughout the rise of the internet and social media, only to later discover widespread concerns including data privacy, hate speech, election interference, misinformation and market dominance. Even after years of tense hearings and legislative proposals, Warner acknowledges our record in social media is a big fat zippo. He worries lawmakers will suffer a similar fate with artificial intelligence by trying to mitigate its full spectrum of risks with a single law comprehensive legislation that others, including Sen. Todd Young (R-Ind.) also doubt is realistic. Instead, Warners been selling his colleagues on first tackling narrowly focused issues: the potential for AI-generated deepfakes to disrupt elections and financial markets. Where I'm at on the regulatory front is we probably can't solve it all at once, Warner said. But where are the two most immediate areas where AI could have an almost existential threat tomorrow? He said hes considering new regulations that would perhaps address concerns about bias or require labels for AI-generated deepfakes though Warner said he has reservations about allowing companies to apply labels. Hes also weighing an increase in penalties under existing laws when AI is used to undermine elections or markets. But who might pay those penalties when technology is abused the tech company or their users has been a sore point for Congress. A law created at the dawn of the internet, known as Section 230, has largely shielded tech companies from liability for their users actions. Even the biggest advocates of Section 230, in my conversations with them up here on the Hill, have said they don't expect Section 230 to carry over to AI, Warner said. A targeted bill would still struggle to clear a sharply divided Congress, especially one that deals with election security, Warner said. But he argues it stands a better chance than some of the more sweeping ideas being considered, including the notion of creating a federal agency to oversee AI. Warner said hes not against that idea, but with a Republican-controlled House, I wouldnt put all my eggs in that basket." Attempts to regulate technology with ties to China, in particular the video-sharing app TikTok, offer another cautionary tale, Warner said. Legislation that Warner introduced earlier this year with Senate Minority Whip John Thune (R-S.D.) that would give the Commerce Department more oversight of foreign-owned tech firms, called the RESTRICT Act, S. 686 (118), was lining up senators two by two, like Noah's Ark and had the White Houses blessing before stalling amid political attacks earlier this year. Warner said he has less anxiety today about China dominating AI than he did a year ago, though concerns remain about Beijing using the technology to advance its military and intelligence operations. But if Congress cannot come to a bipartisan agreement on how to combat national security concerns posed by Chinese technology, he said, then the prospect for comprehensive AI legislation looks grim. It's so important, this is more on the politics side than the substance side, to at least show we can do something now, Warner said. Even if industry and other groups think thats all Congress will do, he added, I will take that risk because we've been so pathetic on social media. We've got to show that we can actually put some markers down that have the force of law. Annie Rees contributed to this report. For a daily download on tech, politics and policy, subscribe to POLITICO Tech on Apple, Spotify, Google or wherever you get your podcasts. Watch the opening remarks by the committee chair and those testifying in the video above. WASHINGTON (AP) Hawaiis top public utility officials and the president of Hawaiian Electric testified Thursday in a congressional hearing about the role the electrical grid played in last months deadly Maui wildfire. Members of a U.S. House Energy and Commerce subcommittee questioned the utility officials about how the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century began and whether the electrical grid in Lahaina was safe and properly maintained. The fire killed at least 97 people and destroyed more than 2,000 buildings, mostly homes. It first erupted at 6:30 a.m. on Aug. 8, when strong winds appeared to cause a Hawaiian Electric powerline to fall, igniting dry brush and grass near a large subdivision. Hawaiian Electric CEO Shelee Kimura, Hawaii Public Utilities Commission Chair Leodoloff Asuncion Jr. and Hawaii Chief Energy Officer Mark Glick were present to testify. Immigration dominated the GOP debate, but its not the political winner Republicans think Energy and Commerce Committee chair Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers; Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee chair Rep. Morgan Griffith; and Energy, Climate and Grid Security Subcommittee chair Rep. Jeff Duncan all Republicans questioned Kimura, Asuncion and Glick about the cause of the fire in a letter sent Aug. 30. The letter included 10 questions about the sequence of events on the day of the fire, efforts to mitigate fire risks posed by the electrical grid, the fire investigation and other issues. The lawmakers said that a complete understanding of how the fire started is needed to ensure it doesnt happen again anywhere in the U.S. Information is also coming to light about actions taken or not taken by implicated entities in hardening and modernizing the electric grid of Maui, they wrote in the letter. In written testimony provided to the committee before the hearing, Kimura focused on the challenges of providing electricity on an isolated island chain, and her feelings of responsibility and connection with the people of Hawaii. She did not discuss any fire mitigation efforts the utility has taken or provide new details about the events surrounding the fire. It was difficult to leave my island home this week when the disaster response efforts are still ongoing. It feels like leaving your family in their time of need. But I hope that as I carry out my kuleana here, it helps you carry out your important kuleana, Kimura wrote, using a Hawaiian word that she said loosely translates to having a deep sense of responsibility that is both an obligation and a privilege. She also wrote that running the utility requires a complex and consequential balance of pursuing safe, reliable power at a reasonable cost. McCarthy told conference he wont allow vote on Senate stopgap: GOP lawmakers Hawaiian Electric serves about 70,000 customers on Maui and nearly half a million customers statewide, including the Department of Defense, which is its largest customer. We all want to learn about what happened on August 8 so that it never happens again, Kimura wrote. Kimura has acknowledged that Hawaiian Electrics downed lines caused the initial fire, but she wrote that the fire department said it extinguished that blaze and that the lines had been de-energized for more than six hours when the fire flared up in the same area again. She called the 3 p.m. blaze the Afternoon Fire, implying it was separate from the morning blaze. The cause of this Afternoon Fire that devastated Lahaina has not been determined, she wrote. We are working tirelessly to figure out what happened, and we are cooperating fully with federal and state investigators. Whether the lines were fully de-energized meaning they were not transmitting any electrical voltage might still be in question, however. At least one Lahaina resident told the Associated Press that their power came back on around 2 p.m., and Maui Police Chief John Pelletier has said that his officers were trying to keep people from driving over live power lines later that afternoon as residents fled the burning town. Asuncion Jr., the chair of the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission, said in written testimony that the PUC began tying Hawaiian Electrics power rates in part to its performance in 2021, moving away from a traditional method of setting rates based on the cost of providing service. The switch was designed to help the utility commission to determine whether it was functioning as intended by creating stringent oversight mechanisms, and allowed the commission to penalize Hawaiian Electric for poor reliability. It also was intended to give Hawaiian Electric more flexibility to manage funds in the way the company thinks will best meet objectives, Asuncion wrote. Asuncion said the PUC is working with Hawaiian Electric to identify and implement any needed operating changes for high-wind days, and is reviewing the companys approach to whether power lines should be built above or below ground. The devastation of the August wildfires should never happen again, Asuncion wrote. In thinking about this priority, the Commission aims to ensure to the greatest extent possible that electric utility operations, infrastructure, and equipment in Hawaii are safe, reliable, and resilient to natural disasters such as wildfires, hurricanes, and flooding. Hawaii has only two electric utilities: Hawaiian Electric, which is the sole provider for Maui, and Kauai Island Utility Cooperative. Residential electricity in Maui costs about 43 cents per kilowatt-hour thats three times the national average, he said, with the average monthly bill reaching about $216 in 2022. The utilitys financial integrity is related to its ability to provide the level of maintenance and upgrades that are critical for a safe electrical grid, he said. Glick, the chief energy officer for Hawaiis State Energy Office, also submitted written testimony detailing some efforts to identify the risk of wildfires and other natural disasters to the energy grid, and plans to eventually create a microgrid system, where small portions of the electrical grid could be shut off for safety reasons while keeping the rest of the system operational. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Taiwan unveiled its first domestically developed submarine Thursday, a major step in a project aimed at strengthening the island's defense and deterrence against the Chinese navy, though it won't enter service for another two years. Taiwan, which China claims as its own territory, has made the indigenous submarine program a key part of an ambitious project to modernise its armed forces as Beijing stages almost daily military exercises to assert its sovereignty. President Tsai Ing-wen, who initiated the plan when she took office in 2016, showed off the first of eight new submarines on Thursday in the southern city of Kaohsiung. "In the past, a domestically developed submarine was considered an impossible task. But, today, a submarine designed and manufactured by our country's people sits before our eyes," Tsai said, adding that it would play an important role in strengthening the navy's "asymmetric warfare" capabilities. "Even if there are risks, and no matter how many challenges there are, Taiwan must take this step and allow the self-reliant national defense policy to grow and flourish on our land," Tsai said, standing in front of the ship, named "Narwhal." Taiwan's red flag, featuring a white sun against a blue sky, was wrapped around the submarine's bow. Tsai said the Narwhal will enter service in 2025, joining two existing submarines purchased from the Netherlands in the 1980s. The indigenous submarine program has drawn on expertise and technology from several countries - a breakthrough for diplomatically isolated Taiwan. Cheng Wen-lon, head of Taiwan's CSBC Corp, which led construction of the submarine, said the domestic content of the boat was about 40 percent. He made no explicit mention of foreign participation in his speech in Kaohsiung. Underscoring the importance of the United States' security relationship with the island despite a lack of official ties, the de facto U.S. ambassador to Taiwan, Sandra Oudkirk, attended the ceremony. The United States is Taiwan's largest arms supplier. Speaking to reporters in Taipei, Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said that faced with an increased threat from China's military "grey zone" pressure tactics close to the island with air and naval activities, Taiwan had to strengthen its defenses. "Having a new submarine is one of those strategies. For anyone who questions Taiwan's submarine strategy, I would be a most forceful advocate for Taiwan to acquire submarines because that's what is needed to deter war from taking place," Wu said. Taiwan hopes to deploy at least two such domestically developed submarines by 2027, and possibly equip later models with missiles, the head of the program said this month. The first submarine, with a price tag of T$49.36 billion ($1.53 billion), will use a combat system by Lockheed Martin Corp and carry U.S.-made Mark 48 heavyweight torpedoes. It will enter sea trials next month before delivery to the navy by the end of 2024. Admiral Huang Shu-kuang, Tsai's security adviser leading the program, has described the submarines as a "strategic deterrent" that can also help maintain the island's "lifeline" to the Pacific by keeping ports along Taiwan's eastern coast open. (Reuters) The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at the ASU Downtown Phoenix Campus on April 11, 2014. The building opened in 2008. Arizona State University police were investigating an incident on Wednesday after someone spray-painted swastikas and other pro-Nazi graffiti on the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism's campus in downtown Phoenix. A university spokesperson said on Wednesday evening that ASU police had arrested Denis Zyalik, an ASU student, and submitted a charge of aggravated criminal damage which is a Class 5 felony. The spokesperson didn't say whether Zyalik had been booked into jail or whether he would be expelled. Rebecca Blatt, senior associate dean at the Cronkite School, sent an email to students Wednesday morning warning them about the graffiti and that it would be removed once ASU police had collected what it needed from the scene. Blatt said the graffiti was spray painted on signage promoting a photo exhibit called "Relentless Courage" featuring work from photographers covering the war between Ukraine and Russia. Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelensky, is the only head of state who's Jewish outside of Israel. ASU President Michael Crow condemned the pro-Nazi vandalism in a written statement to The Arizona Republic. Let there be no confusion that while ASU vigorously protects freedom of expression for all members of our community, we recognize the difference between that constitutional right and activities orchestrated to provoke, incite or agitate with the intention of creating an environment of intimidation and fear," Crow said. "We see those who perpetrate such actions under the cover of darkness for what they are: weak and hateful fear-mongers and cowards. An ASU spokesperson said the university had since removed the graffiti as of Wednesday afternoon. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: ASU investigating pro-Nazi graffiti at Phoenix campus - - - Correction: A previous version of this article and an accompanying photo incorrectly said that Runacres and Ramsden were married in Sussex, England. Their wedding took place in Essex. The article has been corrected. Subscribe to The Post Most newsletter for the most important and interesting stories from The Washington Post. - - - Clare Runacres faced her then-boyfriend and told him the grim news: Her cancer had returned, and it had spread. "I had an advanced, aggressive cancer, and the chances of survival were low," said Runacres, who lives in London. Mike Ramsden - whom she had been dating for several years - decided to propose. "I just knew I wanted to be with her, no matter the circumstances," Ramsden said. "That's what you do when you're in love with somebody and you're committed." When the couple was on vacation together in Croatia about a month after they got the news, he popped the question. Runacres did not expect it. "I was blown away," recalled Runacres, a journalist at BBC Radio 2. "I also felt very sorry for him that he wanted to tie his life to mine, which I felt might be a very short and painful journey," she added. Runacres was first diagnosed with cancer as a 20-year-old college student. She had surgery to remove a tumor, though her doctors told her there was not a treatment to prevent the cancer from spreading. "Chemo and radiotherapy doesn't work on the cancer," she said. "You just have to hope it doesn't spread, which for most people, it does." Nine years later, when she was 29, the cancer came back. Her doctors told her that the majority of patients with her diagnosis would die within six months. "Basically, I was planning my funeral when I was planning my wedding," she said. Runacres requested that The Washington Post not publicly share the specifics of her diagnosis or type of cancer, saying she believes comparing cancer cases can sometimes cause more harm than good, since each case is unique. "I - like everyone diagnosed - have hunted out advice and looked at all sorts of alternative treatments. Most are a quick way for people to make money off sick people's pain and offer dangerously false hope. I don't want to lead people down any paths," she said. "I'm often asked what I 'did.' I don't have the answer to how I have survived so long with my cancer," she continued. "My diagnosis is intensely personal. I don't want it or the actions I took afterwards or since to be scrutinized. I don't want to be responsible for what actions people with my cancer take." After Runacres and Ramsden got engaged in April 2003, they set a wedding date for September that year. "We didn't think she had long," said Ramsden. "Life sped up." "When you are in an environment of cancer, you think that tomorrow is often out of reach, so you just live with the today," Runacres said. "Mike decided that he just wanted to live with my today, and that was enough." On a sunny September day, they tied the knot in Essex. While the celebration was joyous for both Ramsden and Runacres, it was punctuated by the pain that they likely wouldn't have much more time together. "The emotions were absolutely raw," said Ramsden, who works in communications. "I don't quite know how Clare did it. I am in awe of her strength. Clare is a force of nature; a force of life." Runacres said there were a lot of tears that day, along with laughter. "It was a very bittersweet day," she said. "Weddings are all about setting your course for the future and having a family and committing to grow old together. When you enter into that and you don't have those expectations, it's difficult." Before their wedding day, Runacres had a second surgery to remove the new cancerous mass. Although the operation was successful, she worried it would spread again, as it had the first time. "For many years, we didn't plan longer than maybe three months ahead," Runacres said. Then, after a few years went by and Runacres's health remained stable, they began to discuss starting a family - something the couple once thought was unfathomable. "Before I got pregnant, the focus was just on me staying alive," Runacres said. "When you have a child, there's somebody else's future to consider." "Are you sure you want to do this?" Runacres recalled repeatedly asking her husband. He replied: "We have to invest in our future. We have to believe that you're well and not sick." After lengthy consideration, "we agreed that we both wanted children and a family, and it was a risk worth taking," Runacres said. They ended up having two girls, now 13 and 15. "From then on, I measured out my wellness on milestones that my children made," Runacres said. "The milestones I've seen have been magical." On Sept. 13, the couple marked a particularly poignant milestone in their lives: their 20th wedding anniversary. "It's something that on that day 20 years ago, I could only have dreamt would have happened," said Runacres. "It's truly extraordinary." She knows how rare her story is. "I'm aware that other people don't always make it that far, which is sad and difficult," she said. "I still live in the shadow of that cancer. I don't think that once something like that is embedded in your life, you ever leave it behind you." Ramsden said it is woven into their story. "We do this together. We try and we struggle and we work at it," he said. "That's just the way it has to be." Runacres said they have been to some very dark places emotionally, and because of that, it's important to recognize the beauty in their lives as well. With that in mind, she decided to share a small slice of her cancer story on social media, in celebration of their 20th wedding anniversary. "We didn't think I'd make our 1st anniversary. Today is our 20th," she wrote in a tweet, which has been viewed nearly 3 million times. "It was a beautiful day. Full of love and tears. Surrounded by our closest friends and family, we put our fears aside and danced til dawn. Even now I can't look at the photos without feeling that raw emotion. To reach 20 years feels like a miracle." Runacres concluded the thread of tweets with: "Mikey, thank you for taking a chance on me. You're the best person I know. You are my miracle. For those living with cancer - keep hoping, believing, dreaming." The thread, which got attention in the British press, is flooded with comments. "I didn't know you had cancer. I have it too. I am in my first year with no evidence of disease," someone replied. "Yours is an inspiring story. Happy anniversary." Runacres is touched to know her post had an impact. "I was surprised and a little overwhelmed, but also grateful that people wanted to share their experiences with me, and that our experience could help others who are in a difficult place," Ruancres said. The couple celebrated their anniversary with a small soiree at Runacres's mother's house, with their original wedding party in attendance. They had dinner and danced and shared tearful speeches. "We're very, very lucky," Ramsden said. "I'm delighted she is still here, and long may we continue." Related Content Inside the tactics that won Christian vendors the right to reject gay weddings Home schooling today is less religious and more diverse, poll finds Brooks Robinson, Hall of Fame Orioles third baseman, dies at 86 KENNEBUNK, Maine The owners of the Wedding Cake House on Summer Street have been directed by the town Planning Board to add more details to their plans to transform their historic home into an inn and events venue. Planning Boad Chair Chris MacClinchy told the applicants, Hunt and Katie Edwards, that they have "general supportiveness" for their project from the Planning Board. However, he said, more details need to be added to the proposed contract zone before it can be advanced to the Kennebunk Select Board and considered for an upcoming town meeting vote. I think wed like to see it again before we move this forward," MacClinchy said. The Wedding Cake House in Kennebunk was built by shipbuilder George W. Bourne in 1825 in the Federalist style. The decorative trim, inspired by the spires and buttresses of the Cathedral in Milan, was added in the 1850s. On Sept. 25, the Edwards couple and their attorney, Gregory Braun, made their first appearance before the Planning Board since abutters, neighbors and others expressed multiple concerns about their proposal during a public hearing in late July. The concerns focused on the noise, traffic, safety matters, and the impacts on the character of the Summer Street neighborhood if the Wedding Cake House transformed from a private residence to an inn and an events venue. Some speakers suggested that a revenue stream is not a reason to allow a contract zone. The Edwardses have said they want to open their home as an inn and venue because it would help them earn money to take proper care of the historic home. Braun sought to address those concerns at the board's most recent meeting. At the end of a two-hour discussion, however, the applicants and their attorney found themselves with still more matters to address, as Planning Board members directed them to add to their contract zone application a clearer sense of their vision for the property and more language regarding parking, outdoor events, maintenance, signage, maximum capacity of occupants, and more. Board member Daniel Kiley sought to make clear to the Edwardses and Braun that he and his colleagues were taking a longer, broader view in sending them back one more time to take another crack at their application. This is not just about you and how you want to perform, Kiley said. It carries on to the next owner. Those are the protections were looking for not only for the house itself and the property, but for the community, as well. The board voted to give the applicants an additional 90 days to meet its new requirements. The applicants will appear before the board at its next meeting on Monday, Oct. 23. York County real estate: How a modest home on the York River became a $3 million property Wedding Cake House owners work to address neighbors' concerns At the outset of the discussion, Braun summarized the changes the Edwardses had made following the feedback they received during a public hearing on July 24. Braun said the Edwardses have reduced the hours of operation for the proposed events venue to between 9 a.m. and 9:30 p.m. The applicants have also agreed not to have outdoor music or sound amplification after 9:30 p.m. Originally, the applicants sought to have the hours of operation be between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Braun also reiterated the applicants understanding that the venues activities would be subject to the towns noise ordinance. We believe this is a reasonable compromise and a reasonable condition to speak to the abutters and neighbors concerns as it relates to sound pollution, Braun said. Additionally, the applicants have added a requirement that a traffic attendant be present at events in which 50 more people are attending, to ensure orderly departures of vehicles from the Wedding Cake House, according to Braun. Braun called these changes important and significant, but stated that the applicant might not be able to address all of the concerns residents have expressed. Rococo Ice Creams Dessert Bar: New place offers world of flavors from Sea Bacon to Cake with Caviar Why owners want to operate an inn and venue space At one point during the meeting, Hunt Edwards gave a presentation that included pictures of areas at the Wedding Cake House that are in disrepair - and can be fixed and maintained if he and his wife had a new revenue stream, such as an inn and venue would provide. Once called the most photographed home in the state of Maine, the Wedding Cake House is formally known as the George W. Bourne House and gets its nickname from its wedding cake-like appearance. According to local legend, Bourne, a sea captain and shipbuilder, had the house built in 1825 to atone for having not taken his bride, Jane, on a proper honeymoon. A proposal to transform the iconic Wedding Cake House on Summer Street in Kennebunk, Maine, into an inn and community venue is currently going through the town's planning process. The home has been restored on several occasions, most recently in 1984. James Hunt Barker Hunt Edwards uncle bought the house in 1998. Hunt Edwards began renovating it in 2019. During his presentation, Edwards noted that online traffic has pointed to a strong public interest in the Wedding Cake House and what will become of it. Its Kennebunks most famous house, Edwards told the board. How do we save it? Thats up to you. Braun struck a similar note in his remarks to the board. In the end, its a question of whether or not this board has an appetite and a willingness to allow this property to be used as something other than purely and exclusively residential, Braun said. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Wedding Cake House owners' inn plan faces questions in Kennebunk ME By Robin Respaut and Chad Terhune (Reuters) - Dawn Heidlebaugh felt trapped in a disturbing pattern while taking Ozempic, the popular drug used to treat diabetes and obesity. Each Sunday for more than a year, the 53-year-old Ohio real estate agent took her weekly injection to help control her blood sugar. Then every Tuesday, she felt lethargic, depressed and sometimes suicidal, thinking her husband and four children might be better off without her. These feelings would last a few days, and the cycle repeated every week except when she skipped a dose. I knew it was the drug, said Heidlebaugh, who said she had not previously suffered from depression. Heidlebaugh is one of four U.S. patients who told Reuters about experiencing suicidal thoughts while taking Novo Nordisks popular Ozempic drug, approved to treat type 2 diabetes, or Wegovy, another Novo top-seller approved for weight loss. A fifth patient said he experienced depression and suicidal thoughts after taking Mounjaro, a similar diabetes medicine from Eli Lilly, which is also used for weight loss. All three drugs are GLP-1 receptor agonists, which slow digestion and reduce hunger. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has received 265 reports of suicidal thoughts or behavior in patients taking these or similar medicines since 2010, Reuters found in an examination of the agency's adverse-event database. Thirty-six of these reports describe a death by suicide or suspected suicide. The FDA monitors such reports to help decide whether to further investigate a drugs safety and take action to protect patients, such as mandating a warning label. Accounts of suicidal thoughts linked to this class of drugs are drawing increasing scrutiny, including an investigation by European regulators announced in July. In a statement to Reuters, the FDA said it is evaluating such reports and will decide on what action, if any, to take after a thorough review. Many beneficial drugs have rare and sometimes dangerous side effects that have to be carefully assessed by regulators and managed by physicians, making clear warnings essential in such cases, said Thomas J. Moore, faculty associate at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, who has studied the incidence of rare psychiatric side effects. This doesnt mean to automatically blame the drug, he said. It does mean that a patient's complaint should not be automatically dismissed. The Reuters review is the first exhaustive examination of FDA adverse-event reports involving incidents of suicidal thinking linked to GLP-1 drugs. The news organization also filed public records requests to obtain 113 more-detailed narratives for individual incidents among the 265 reports in the FDA database. The experiences of the five patients who spoke with Reuters have not been previously reported. More than half of the narrative summaries describe suicidal thoughts appearing shortly after the person started the medicine or increased the dose. About two fifths of them said symptoms ceased after the patient stopped taking the drug or lowered the dose. Thirty of the 113 narratives described patients with a history of depression, suicidal thinking or another mental-health condition. Another five reports explicitly said the patient had no history of psychological issues. Most reports dont address that medical history. Adverse-event reports provide a warning system for the medical community but aren't considered definitive scientific evidence. Submitted by doctors, patients, drugmakers and others, they often lack key details and do not on their own establish that a drug caused the potentially dangerous health events. Reuters identified the 265 reports by searching the government database for key words involving suicide and self-harm; its possible that additional reports of these side effects exist. Its also possible that the reports identified in these searches contain multiple submissions describing the same incident. In a statement, Novo said it takes all reports about adverse events from use of our medicines very seriously, and that it would continue to monitor clinical data and collaborate with authorities. The company said it remains confident in the benefit-risk profile of the products and that its own safety monitoring has found no causal association between the drugs and thoughts of self-harm. Eli Lilly said in a statement that it was working closely with regulators on potential safety issues involving Mounjaro and that it would continue to review data on suicidal ideation, thoughts of self-harm and depression. Dr. Erick Turner, a former FDA medical officer who reviewed psychiatric drugs, said cases such as Heidlebaughs are cause for concern. Regulators should pay attention to cases where patients have no history of depression, experience suicidal thoughts suddenly after starting or increasing their dose, and then see symptoms subside after stopping. That makes it harder to explain away the suicidality, said Turner, a professor of psychiatry at Oregon Health & Science University. It makes any occurrence of those safety signals more credible. CAUSE FOR ALARM Millions of patients are being encouraged to try drugs such as Wegovy, which led to an average loss of 15% of a persons body weight in clinical trials, making it the most effective approved weight-loss treatment to date. Its 2021 approval kickstarted a new market for obesity drugs that is estimated to reach $100 billion within a decade. Novo Nordisk says additional trials, which it plans to publish soon, show the drug can also help protect patients against heart attacks and strokes. Trials of Mounjaro showed even more weight loss, and Eli Lilly has said it expects the FDA to approve the drug for that purpose this year. Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro have so far proved relatively safe. Their clinical trials did not show suicide risk, according to the FDA. But doctors are on the lookout for previously undocumented dangers as hundreds of thousands of new patients start taking these drugs to lose weight. Heightened suicide risks have caused regulators to issue strong warnings on obesity drugs in the past. Wegovys U.S. prescribing label, produced with FDA approval, says suicidal thoughts or attempts have been reported in clinical trials for other weight-loss medicines. It recommends that patients starting Wegovy be monitored for such behavior and calls for those with a history of suicide attempts or active suicidal thinking to avoid the drug. Novos Saxenda, a GLP-1 approved in 2014 for weight loss and included in the Reuters analysis of adverse event reports submitted to the FDA, contains an FDA warning because suicidal thoughts or behaviors were seen in some patients during the companys clinical trials. Theres no such language on the U.S. label for Ozempic, which was approved for treating diabetes in 2017. Suicidal behavior isnt listed as a potential side effect for any GLP-1 drugs in the European Union. Scrutiny of GLP-1 drugs intensified in July after the European Medicines Agency (EMA) announced an investigation of suicide risk from Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda and other GLP-1 drugs. It later said it was analyzing about 150 reports of suicidal thinking. Health agencies in the UK and Canada are also reviewing the drugs suicide risk. The drug manufacturers have said they are cooperating with the probes. The European regulator expects to conclude its review in November. The agency told Reuters that such reviews can result in regulators requiring a warning on the product, issuing urgent safety restrictions or asking drugmakers to conduct a more extensive safety study. If the FDA finds that GLP-1 drugs increase suicide risk, it could also require warnings. In the case of Wegovy, the agency could strengthen the existing warning by requiring more explicit language linking the drug to suicide risk. The agencys strongest action, short of banning a drug, is to issue a so-called black-box warning, which could prompt some doctors and patients to avoid the medicine. Novo Nordisk itself submitted 180 of the 265 reports to the FDA describing suicidal thinking or behaviors that Reuters found. Among the 113 detailed case narratives, 91 were filed by Novo. In nearly all of those, the company wrote that there werent enough details to determine what happened. In three reports, the company sought to explain the experience of the patient by saying overweight people are at higher risk of depression or suicidal ideation. Novo declined to comment further on its statements in these reports. Its difficult to gauge whether or how quickly such reports will spur FDA action. As Reuters reported earlier this year, it took the agency 12 years after launching a safety review of the allergy-and-asthma drug Singulair before it required a black-box warning about serious neuropsychiatric side effects, including suicidal thinking, in 2020. By that time, the FDA had received more than 80 reports of people killing themselves while taking the medicine, including 31 children and teenagers. Reports of suicidal thinking have previously dogged other weight-loss medications. Sanofi's Acomplia, which never won U.S. approval, was withdrawn in Europe in 2008 after being linked to suicidal thoughts. The weight-loss drug Contrave carries a black-box warning about suicidal thinking, and another obesity medicine, Qsymia, carries a warning telling patients to stop taking it if they experience suicidal thoughts. Sanofi and Currax Pharmaceuticals, the maker of Contrave, said their drugs shouldnt be compared to GLP-1 drugs because they contain different active ingredients. John Amos, chief executive of Vivus LLC, which sells Qsymia, said patients should consult health-care providers on the benefits and risks of various weight-loss medicines. VISIONS OF DEATH GLP-1 drugs reach the brain, according to pharmacology reports Novo and Lilly submitted to the FDA. That may account for their effectiveness in influencing hunger signals, but could also increase risks of neuropsychiatric side effects. Patients who spoke with Reuters described suicidal or panicked feelings that came on quickly after either starting the medicine or increasing the dosage. None were aware of their experiences being reported to the FDA, underscoring how the FDAs adverse-event database often doesnt capture the full scope of a drugs potential problems. Some people do not connect medical or psychological issues to their medicines. Some patients interviewed by Reuters werent aware of the FDA process for reporting them. Three of the patients, including Heidlebaugh, described becoming scared after experiencing impulses to kill themselves by crashing their cars. I was driving and thought: What if I just jerked the wheel while on this bridge? said Lisa Wood, a 33-year-old North Carolina ultrasound technician who lost 70 pounds on Wegovy. It didnt occur to me that it was the Wegovy. Wood said her symptoms subsided after she stopped taking the medicine. Sarah Sobol of Buffalo, New York, age 40, said she had panic attacks, hallucinations and suicidal thoughts after increasing her dose of Ozempic, which she took in 2021 for weight loss. She later found patients posting on Facebook about similar symptoms, stopped the medication and began to feel better. If someone had said: This is a side effect; youre not losing your mind, it would have really helped me, said Sobol, who sought therapy to deal with her symptoms. I thought I would end up in the psych ward. I was terrified I would not be normal again. Some patients told Reuters they stuck with the therapy, despite the suicidal thoughts, because doctors assured them the drug didnt cause them. Katherine, a 37-year-old North Carolina nurse and mother of two who spoke on condition she be identified only by her first name, said she repeatedly visualized shooting herself while taking Wegovy. One night she went to the emergency room. She was given anxiety medicine and quickly released. She said an ER staffer told her: Youre a mom. This happens when you get over-tired. Katherine had lost 70 pounds while on Wegovy but switched to Mounjaro. She said she has not experienced any suicidal thoughts on that drug. Some patients in reports to the FDA and interviews with Reuters said they had experienced depression in the past, but that the feelings they experienced on the GLP-1 drugs felt more intense. Jayson Chesnutt, a 49-year-old patient on Mounjaro, told Reuters that his dark thoughts prompted him to check himself into the Indiana psychiatric hospital where he works as a nurse. He ultimately decided to continue the medicine, however, because his blood sugar levels had improved and he had lost 75 pounds in five months. Chesnutt continues to feel depressed and, at times, suicidal. But he says he can manage these feelings now that he is aware of the possible cause. He favors a stronger warning for consumers. People need to know their feelings may not be them, he said. (Reporting by Robin Respaut and Chad Terhune; additional reporting by Maggie Fick and Ludwig Burger; editing by Michele Gershberg and Brian Thevenot) TAMPA Seven years after it was announced that West Tampas century-old Balbin Bros. Cigar Factory would be turned into a 70-room boutique hotel, construction is underway. It took a while to get the architectural plans right and then there was a delay because of COVID, said Dylan Desai of the family-operated My Hospitality Hotels, which purchased the factory for $1.4 million and is spending another $12 million on the project. But now were ready. Construction began three months ago and should be finished within a year. They have yet to finalize a deal with a hotel franchise, but Desai expects to have one soon for the three-story, 35,000-square-foot locally designated historic landmark at 1202 N. Howard Ave. His company owns more than 50 hotels, a mix of Comfort Inns, Hiltons, Marriotts, La Quintas and Holiday Inns throughout Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama and Florida. The Balbin Bros. Cigar Factory is their first historic restoration project. Were gutting everything on the inside, Desai said. The outsides original look will not change. Dennis Fernandez, the city of Tampas architectural review and historic preservation manager, said, It will be a significant effort because the building was in pretty poor condition. The exterior walls are being repaired and repointed. New windows are necessary, but those will be replicas of the originals. The factory was constructed in 1904 by the Samuel I. Davis Cigar Co.. They then built and moved into a larger factory a few blocks away in 1910. The Balbin Bros. Cigar Co. arrived in Tampa in 1904 and initially operated out of a building on the corner of Harrison and Franklin streets in downtown. Later that year, the company moved into a wooden factory in West Tampa, but that was torched by an arsonist in October 1910. In three quarters of an hour, nothing but a pile of ashes remained to tell the story of a loss estimated at $5,000, the Tampa Tribune wrote of the fire. Flames appeared to wrap the building on all sides at once, as if the dry wood had been carefully soaked in gasoline. A $500 reward was offered for information that led to an arrest, but no one was charged. Balbin Bros. then moved into the former Samuel I. Davis building in March 1911 and the factory permanently took on their name, even after being sold to Tampa-Cuba Cigar Co. in 1915. In the early 1930s, DeSoto Brewery briefly operated there, according to Tampa Bay Times archives. From 1937 to 1976, it was home to Empire Mercantile, which operated 24 Fremacs clothing stores. Then, in 2006, dental technology company Inteldent Solutions began using it for office space. Desai said that his company purchased it primarily because it is located right off I-275s West Tampa exit and because, despite needed structural repairs, the buildings bones remain strong. Its in a great location, he said. And its survived more than 100 years for a reason. Western armor isn't cutting it in Ukraine, a military analyst told The Wall Street Journal. Taras Chmut said Western-made tanks weren't designed for an "all-out" war of this intensity. Western allies should instead ramp up deliveries of simpler and cheaper systems, he said. Western-made armor is failing in Ukraine because it wasn't designed to sustain a conflict of this intensity, a military analyst told The Wall Street Journal. Taras Chmut, a military analyst who's the head of the Come Back Alive Foundation, which has raised money to purchase and provide arms and equipment to Ukraine, said that "a lot of Western armor doesn't work here because it had been created not for an all-out war but for conflicts of low or medium intensity." "If you throw it into a mass offensive, it just doesn't perform," he said. Chmut went on to say Ukraine's Western allies should instead turn their attention to delivering simpler and cheaper systems, but in larger quantities, something Ukraine has repeatedly requested, the newspaper reported. Despite Chmut's comments, some advanced Western systems Ukraine has received were conceived with the highest-intensity combat in mind NATO going head-to-head with Soviet forces. The US-made Bradley infantry fighting vehicles and Abrams main battle tanks were built specifically to counter Soviet ground forces. But like other armored systems, they are susceptible to artillery and mines, both of which have proven fearsome challenges as Ukraine presses against Russian defensive networks. Less than 5% of tanks destroyed since the start of the war had been taken out by other tanks, Ukrainian officials said in the Journal report, with the rest falling to mines, artillery, antitank missiles, and drones. This means the relative sophistication of a tank is no longer as important, the paper says. Maj. Gen. Christian Freuding, Germany's director of planning and command staff, said Western military strategists had not yet accepted that quantity trumps quality. "You need numbers; you need force numbers. In the West, we have reduced our military; we have reduced our stocks. But quantity matters; mass matters," he told the Journal. Even so, Ukraine continues to ask for more sophisticated tanks and military equipment from its allies. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly criticized Western allies for delays in the deliveries of weapons, saying earlier this month that slower arms shipments were hurting Ukraine's chances of success in its ongoing counteroffensive. A July report compiled by the Kiel Institute for the World Economy said Ukraine's allies had only delivered about half of the heavy weapons that had been promised. "The gap between promised and delivered military aid is wide," Christoph Trebesch, the head of the team creating the tracker, said. Meanwhile, Ukraine's defense minister, Rustem Umerov, told The Economist last week his country was prioritizing domestic ammunition production. "Anything that can be produced locally must be produced locally," he said. Sergej Sumlenny, founder of the German think tank European Resilience Initiative Center, previously told Insider that Ukraine was stepping up its domestic production in part because of concern that Western deliveries would not keep up with its military needs. Read the original article on Business Insider The Westmoreland County Detective Bureau is investigating after a prison inmate died Thursday morning. According to the Westmoreland County coroner, Terry Lynn Brumley Jr., 33, from Oklahoma was found unresponsive in his cell at the Westmoreland County Prison at 7:45 a.m. The inmate was pronounced dead at the scene. The Westmoreland County Office of the District Attorney said three other inmates were evaluated and treated at a local hospital and have since been released. Further details will be released at the discretion of the Westmoreland County Detective Bureau. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW TRENDING NOW: 2 killed in wrong-way fiery crash involving tractor-trailer on I-79 PHOTOS: First responders called to fatal wrong-way crash involving tractor-trailer on I-79 Teen critically injured in Pittsburgh shooting VIDEO: Find out first or wait for the doctor? The debate over getting results on medical apps DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts Seven members of the Kentucky House Republican delegation from Louisville unveiled last week what they are calling the "Safer Kentucky Act" aimed at tackling crime. My constituents are fed up. They dont feel safe in their own homes and neighborhoods," said Rep. Jared Bauman, R-Louisville. "If we do not do something now, things will only get worse. And, while we talk about crime here in Louisville, it is an issue that unites Kentuckians across the state. Kentuckians deserve better. Mayor Craig Greenberg said he is glad "folks in Kentucky General Assembly are looking to have a conversation about what they can do to make Louisville and Kentucky safer," and he hopes to be involved in future discussions about public safety. "I look forward to the coming months ahead to working with leadership with the State Senate and State House to implement laws that will help us make Louisville safe," he said a day after the outline was unveiled. "There are some things in this proposal that I've initially seen so far that we support." He specifically emphasized his support for wiretapping as a method to address gangs. Here is a look at the 18 points in the proposed legislation, which the lawmakers hope to pass in the 2024 session. Provisions that involve firearms Allow unlicensed citizens to bid on confiscated murder weapons "with the provision that the guns be destroyed by the Kentucky State Police rather than transferred to the buyer." Currently, guns from homicides are sold at auctions to licensed firearms dealers and profits are used to buy equipment for the police force. This would allow citizens to outbid firearms dealers and have the weapons destroyed. If someone used a firearm that violated state law like ones that are stolen or defaced in the commission of their offense, they will not be eligible for "probation, parole, conditional discharge, conditional release, or any other form of release prior to the completion of their sentence." Provisions on increases in punishments The "Three Strikes Law" would require people convicted of a third violent felony to receive life in prison without probation or parole. If the third violent felony is a capital offense, this law would allow the death penalty to be used on the defendant. If someone knowingly sells fentanyl or a fentanyl derivative to a person who dies from the "injection, ingestion, inhalation or other" form of exposure to the fentanyl, the seller is "responsible for causing death by delivery" and "are responsible for murder," Bauman said. The seller would be allowed to face the death penalty. The felony class for providing contraband substances, like fentanyl, in jails, prisons or other detention centers would rise from Class D to Class B. Those convicted of attempted murder would have to serve 85% of their sentences before they are eligible for early release. This also would add attempted murder to the violent offense statute. The felony fine for public or private property vandalism would increase to $500. It also would allow for the charges to become a Class B misdemeanor if the defendant repairs or reimburses the cost of the damaged property prior to the trial. Prosecutors would be required to pursue the death penalty charge if a law enforcement officer is shot while on the job if the officer was behaving lawfully. Law enforcement provisions Requires Kentucky State Police to establish a post in Jefferson County. County jails and regional correction facilities would be required to "issue a personal identification card or operators license for an eligible felony offender." Mentally ill individuals could be involuntarily confined. After being discharged, "eligible mentally ill individuals" could be "remanded to the custody of a sheriff or peace officer." Individuals released from a forensic psychiatric facility would also be transported by officials to the individual's "county of discharge." This would establish a wiretapping law and allow law enforcement to use it "when appropriate." Local and state officials could work with the federal government to obtain wiretaps in the investigations of "heinous crimes and gangs." The states attorney general or any commonwealths attorney could ask a judge for an order to intercept "wire, oral, or electronic communications by investigative or law enforcement officers" in cases of murder, kidnapping, human trafficking, child sexual exploitation, child pornography production, prostitution, gambling, robbery, bribery, extortion, or dealing with narcotic drugs, or other dangerous drugs." Other provisions The bill includes several regulations for bail funding organizations: limiting the amount charitable organizations can donate to bail funds at $5,000; requiring photo identification for people who post bail; making it unlawful to post bail in cases of "domestic violence or for a person being held under a civil court order or warrant pursuant to Caseys Law"; requires bail organizations to create and maintain an annual report that would be given to the Interim Joint Committee on Judiciary and would be publicly available on the organization's website. The bill would require parents to attend juvenile court hearings with a penalty of up to a $500 fine and 40 hours of community service. Employees and shop owners would be allowed to use a "reasonable amount of force necessary to protect themselves, to prohibit the escape of a person detained, or to prevent the loss of goods for sale." It also would provide civil and criminal immunity for the workers and business owners. It would create a Kentucky statute for carjacking and make it a Class C felony. If that carjacking results in a serious physical injury of someone who is not involved with the crime, that would constitute a Class B felony. If that person dies, the carjacker would be prosecuted with the death seen as a capital offense. Prevents street camping "on public streets, sidewalks, paths, or public areas normally used by pedestrians and/or vehicles, private property, homes, or businesses in any way." If people refuse to vacate the area, they could be charged with a misdemeanor, which could escalate with each offense. Property owners "shall not be held criminally liable for any actions taken to defend themselves from the aggressive actions of a person refusing to vacate an illegal street camp, and any such aggression by the camper can be prosecuted as assault." Local governments would be authorized to designate areas for indoor and outdoor camping and would be required to provide "basic sanitation needs." Would allow a governor to remove a member of the parole board and would require "a unanimous vote of three to six-member panels to approve parole." More: Wiretaps, '3 strikes' and a state police post: Louisville lawmakers unveil crime plan Reach reporter Eleanor McCrary at EMcCrary@courier-journal.com or on Twitter at @ellie_mccrary. This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: The 18 points: A look at the proposed GOP crime plan Prominent New Jersey developer Fred Daibes went before a judge Wednesday and entered a not guilty plea for the second time in five years. Daibes, 66, was one of five people indicted Friday in an alleged corruption scheme involving Sen. Bob Menendez and his wife, Nadine Arslanian Menendez. He pleaded not guilty to the charges, which were brought by the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, in federal court in Manhattan. Daibes was charged along with two other businessmen, Wael Hana and Jose Uribe, with conspiracy to commit bribery and conspiracy to commit honest services fraud in relation to Menendez's second indictment in eight years. Menendez was indicted on corruption charges for allegedly accepting hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes from Daibes, Hana and Uribe for helping them enrich themselves and trying to get them out of trouble, said the indictment, unsealed in New York. Fred Daibes arrives at federal court, Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, in New York. Daibes is named as one of three businessmen named as co-defendants with Sen. Bob Menendez, who is due to answer to charges that he used his powerful post to secretly advance Egyptian interests and do favors for New Jersey businessmen in exchange for bribes of cash and gold bars. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig) Menendez entered his own plea of not guilty late Wednesday morning in a federal courtroom in Manhattan. He and his wife, Nadine Arslanian Menendez, arrived at the Daniel Patrick Moynihan United States Courthouse shortly after 8 a.m. Daibes was released on a $2 million personal recognizance bond secured by his property at 500 Route 340 in Sparkill, New York, and is restricted to New Jersey and parts of Florida and New York. His $10 million recognizance bond in his 2018 New Jersey case will transfer to the New York case if he is exonerated. Donations?: What are NJ politicians doing with campaign cash they received from Menendez, Daibes? 'We trusted him': Egyptians, human rights groups stunned by Bob Menendez allegations Menendez was released on a $100,000 personal recognizance bond and was required to surrender his personal passport, though not his official government passport. He can travel abroad with permission from the court. Nadine Arslanian Menendez, who also pleaded not guilty, was released on a $250,000 personal recognizance bond secured by her house in Englewood Cliffs. She can travel only in New Jersey, parts of New York, Florida and Washington, D.C. Uribe pleaded not guilty and was released on a $1 million personal recognizance bond secured by his residence in Clifton and is restricted to New Jersey and parts of Pennsylvania and New York. Daibes charged in 2018 with federal banking crimes Daibes is largely responsible for the "gold coast" boom of high-rises along the Hudson River in Bergen County and owns several properties. He founded Mariner's Bank, opening the first branch on River Road in Edgewater in 2001. He served as chairman of both Mariner's Bank and Mariner's Bancorp. He remained the chairman of Mariner's Bancorp until 2019, after he was indicted. He also was chairman of the bank's board until April 2011. In 2018, a federal indictment described a scheme in which Daibes and Michael McManus, the chief financial officer of Daibes Enterprises, allegedly used others not named in the indictment to secure millions of dollars in loans which were used for Daibes' benefit without the knowledge of Mariner's Bank or the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. Who is Fred Daibes?: Edgewater developer indicted along with Menendez in corruption scheme There were five so-called "nominees," friends or relatives of Daibes, who obtained loans from Mariner's Bank using collateral provided by Daibes, or who obtained loans with the idea that Daibes would provide money for the loan payments, the indictment said. The loans took place from 2008 to 2013 and allegedly were used to get around the lending limits set by Mariner's Bank. Daibes and McManus were each charged with one count of conspiracy to misapply bank funds and to make false entries to deceive a bank and the FDIC. Additionally, Daibes was charged with five counts of misapplying bank funds, six counts of making false entries to deceive a financial institution and the FDIC, and one count of causing reliance on a false document to influence the FDIC. Bail Daibes originally pleaded not guilty in 2018 before later pleading guilty to one count of the charges in 2022. His bail was set at $10 million, and he was allowed to post a bond in that amount by using his property, court documents show. The properties are listed as "1255-1275 River Road." The properties include two commercial developments and 2 acres of vacant land at 1275 River Road. A lien was place on the properties. Daibes will not lose title to whatever property he posts, and businesses will be allowed to continue as usual there as long as he complies with court proceedings. In 2022, Daibes admitted to receiving more than $1 million in gross receipts from Mariner's Bank, pleading guilty to making false entries in a loan memorandum. Daibes' guilty plea was to a single count of the original indictment, which charges that the 2008 memo for a $1.8 million nominee loan falsely stated the borrower and the source of repayment when the line of credit was actually for Daibes, who funded the repayment. Lawrence Lustberg, attorney for Daibes, said at the time that he will be sentenced to probation and the rest of the charges against him are being dismissed. Lustberg called the plea agreement "favorable." According to the agreement, the charge to which Daibes pleaded carries a maximum penalty of 30 years and a fine of at least $1 million. However, the sentencing for probation was delayed four times, with many speculating that it was connected to the Menendez investigation. Daibes' next sentencing hearing is scheduled for Oct. 26. Travel over the years Daibes' travels were limited as part of his new federal bail agreement. Since 2018, Daibes has been allowed to travel outside the country seven times, taking trips to destinations including Italy, the Bahamas, England and Qatar. In 2022, he traveled abroad to conduct business for his property at 115 River Road in Edgewater, a contaminated Superfund site. Daibes traveled to London four times, in January and August and twice in October of 2022, court records show. In a letter, his attorney asked the judge to allow Daibes awaiting sentencing in the bank charge case to visit Qatar to pitch another investor, Heritage Advisors of London, an investment management firm founded by Sheikh Sultan bin Jassim Al Thani of Qatar. The investment firm subsequently bought a 23.7% share of the Quanta site and adjoining properties for $45 million, records show. Heritage did not respond to a request for comment. This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Fred Daibes: What's next after plea in Sen. Bob Menedez indictment The Colorado River water touches seven states and Mexico and is 1,450 miles long the sixth longest in the nation according to river conservation organization American Rivers. More than a natural spectacle, the river supplies drinking water for one in 10 Americans and just half of the river water nourishes nearly 90% of the nations winter vegetable crops. But the constant demand means the river also faces aridification and overconsumption. Heres everything you need to know about the river many call the lifeline of the Southwest. Visitors view the dramatic bend in the Colorado River at Horseshoe Bend in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Where does the Colorado River start? The Colorado River begins at La Poudre Pass Lake in the Rocky Mountain National Park in northern Colorado. The headwaters flow out to Grand Lake and Lake Granby before heading south, according to local ABC affiliate Denver7 News. You can drive or travel along the 80 miles of the scenic Colorado River Headwaters Byway by starting in the town of Grand Lake, Colorado and ending in State Bridge. The water comes from the melted snowpack of the Rocky Mountain peaks, which release fresh water into the river over time. This once-reliable stream is now strained for several reasons overuse of water, decreased precipitation and increased temperatures that cause quicker snowpack thawing. Moving south, the melted snowpack water is joined by several other rivers before reaching Lake Powell, the 189-mile-long lake behind the Glen Canyon Dam. The lake stores the water used in the upper basin of the Colorado River, which includes Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming. After this, it heads downstream to Lees Ferry, where the upper and lower basins are divided for water rights purposes, Denver7 reports. This embedded content is not available in your region. Where does the Colorado River end? The Colorado River ends near the Gulf of California in Mexico. It used to reach the Gulf but is now reduced to a trickle several miles before the sea because of climate change and overuse. The river transitions from the Upper Basin to the Lower Basin below Lake Powell in northern Arizona. After Lees Ferry, the river winds through the Grand Canyon and makes a pass at the Hoover Dam on Lake Mead. It then continues through Nevada, California, Arizona and into Mexico. What river runs through the Grand Canyon? It's true the Colorado River is one of the Grand Canyons claims to fame. The Colorado River runs through the Grand Canyon in a 277-mile stretch and is the main river to flow through it, though the National Parks Service still doesnt know the extent of all water sources within the Grand Canyon. In Mother Nature's shoes: Keeping the Colorado River's heart beating Just Curious for more? We've got you covered USA TODAY is exploring the questions you and others ask every day. From "Which state has the most national parks?" to "How old is my cat in human years?" to "What do I wear to a rodeo?" we're striving to find answers to the most common questions you ask every day. Head to our Just Curious section to see what else we can answer for you. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Where does the Colorado river start? An explorations of the map. Leer en espanol At just 22 years old, Armando Montero is a leader of one of the biggest school districts in Arizona a position he started down the path toward before he had even graduated from high school. Tempe Union High School District, where Montero serves as school board president, serves almost 13,000 students in Tempe, Chandler, Guadalupe, the Gila River Indian Community and Ahwatukee. Its important to have more young people sitting in office, particularly at this level at the school board," Montero said. "To be one of those five voices, to bring a perspective that is not traditionally there." 'He was relentless in his mental health advocacy' Monteros intelligence and potential stood out to his high school friends and classmates early in his time at Desert Vista High School, where he started in 2015. Desert Vista is one of seven schools in Tempe Union. Kaitlyn Laibe, Monteros best friend, first saw his intelligence on display for the debate team during their sophomore year. She called him whip-smart for his debate performance. As their friendship strengthened, Laibe and Montero began to get involved in politics together, campaigning in local elections and voter registration efforts. Montero looked at me and said, This is what Im going to do,' Laibe recalled. He stuck to his word. Around that same time, because of his own personal struggles and the loss of a friend to suicide, Montero began to advocate for increased mental health resources and support in the school district. He was relentless in his mental health advocacy pursuit, Laibe said. That was really the framework through which he saw all other issues was this understanding that if we dont tackle mental health, then all other issues are just placing a bandaid on them. His advocacy soon led him to the district's boardroom, which he described as a daunting experience. Montero found himself standing in front of the school board proposing more mental health resources in schools, such as increased funding for school counselors, psychologists and social workers. That's when Stacia Wilson, Tempe Union's acting superintendent, first met Montero. He was courageous, Wilson said. A virtual campaign during COVID Montero began to question why students werent further integrated into the school board process. He was met with comments of youre too young to understand what youre talking about and let the adults in the room handle it, Montero said. Then, in 2019, during the summer after he graduated from Desert Vista, members of the school board approached Montero with the idea of running for a board position. I initially just kind of laughed it off and didnt think it would be possible, Montero said. But that same summer, Montero, then just 18, filed his intent to run. It was official. Just weeks before he was set to begin attending Arizona State University to study political science in August 2019, he was running for office. He would be on the 2020 ballot. Even if I wouldnt be successful, just to show people that its possible to run that was important to me, Montero said. Despite having to run a campaign during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic campaigning through virtual town halls, phone banking and social media, all while attending his freshman year of college in November 2020 Montero secured a seat on the board. When the results first rolled in, Montero called Sarah James, a music teacher at Tempe Elementary School who campaigned with him. I vividly remember he was so excited, his voice was just like in disbelief, said James, who now serves alongside Montero on the board. James wasnt as surprised as Montero seemed to hear the news of his win. I feel like everyone knew he was gonna win, James said. He had such a dynamic campaign and such a different perspective. Its important to have more young people sitting in office, particularly at this level at the school board," says Tempe Union High School District Governing Board President Armando Montero. "To be one of those five voices, to bring a perspective that is not traditionally there." Bringing student voices to the school board In January 2021, Montero's term on the board began. As a young person in a position of power, he found himself confronted by questions about his abilities. Having to listen to a 19-year-old, theres that initial sense of side-eye, Montero said. Despite the higher standards he felt he had to meet, Montero began to take on more responsibility. He was elected by his board colleagues to be vice president in 2022 and president in January 2023. As a board member, Montero has had the opportunity to go into high school classrooms across the district and meet with students. Those visits, he said, are one of his favorite aspects of board service. Laibe, Montero's friend, said the student experience is inherently disempowering because students rarely get a voice in important schoolwide decisions. But Monteros presence on the board is changing that dynamic, she said. This is a student who, less than a year ago, was disempowered by this administration and is now sitting upon it, Laibe recalled of Montero joining the board. Its really, really incredible. During classroom visits, Montero has been able to talk to students and see them get excited when they see someone that looks like them, that understands them, that is out there making those decisions, he said. Since joining the board, Montero has worked with his colleagues to launch an ad hoc committee surrounding student mental health to shape school board policy, reduce the student-to-counselor ratio, expand LGBTQ+ student protections and increase accountability for the school board itself. Wilson praised Monteros leadership, including his ability to listen to others, consider alternate ideas, tackle issues head on and ask questions of his colleagues. Hes an amazing leader now, and I just know he will continue to be, Wilson said. It gives me a lot of hope for our young leaders coming up. Monteros term is up at the end of 2024. He plans to run for reelection. Triple major takes job in education policy While running for and serving on the school board, Montero was continuing his college education. In addition to political science, Montero had started pursuing two additional majors, economics and mathematics. He was the rare triple major. He graduated from ASU with all three in May 2023. Months after graduating from ASU, Montero moved from student to staff. In August, he started at ASU as a senior planning analyst to help the university prepare for the future and prepare more students for higher education. Montero plans to continue his education by going back to school to receive a masters or law degree. Whatever pathway he goes down in the future, Laibe said she knows Montero will achieve great things. From the moment I met him, from the first debate round I saw him in I knew this was someone whose name we were going to remember, Laibe said. Reach reporter Morgan Fischer at morgan.fischer@gannett.com or on X, formally known as Twitter, @morgfisch. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: School board president Armando Montero is 22 and touts mental health NEW YORK Mayor Eric Adams said Thursday that White House officials havent cited any political calculus behind not responding to his calls to provide additional aid in addressing the migrant crisis but added more is needed before President Joe Biden is in the thick of his reelection run next year. Adams, who was speaking with conservative radio host Sid Rosenberg on WABC Thursday morning, was responding to a question from Rosenberg about how Biden is always going to say no' when it comes to more aid for migrants until after the 2024 presidential election, where the issue is guaranteed to be front and center. I have not been told no by the White House. The problem is we need to get an answer, Adams said. No one has stated that anything is on pause until after the presidential race. We cannot wait until after a race that happens next year to deal with the relief that this city needs now. Adams has spoken openly about his displeasure with Bidens response to the migrant issue for months, but has also called out Congress and more specifically the Republican-controlled House of Representatives, which hasnt offered up an immigration reform package that Biden would approve. Rosenberg, a staunch supporter of former President Trump who appeared at an anti-migrant rally in Brooklyn earlier this month, praised Adams for criticizing Biden and appeared to goad him into piling on some more Thursday by pointing to the presidents decision not to meet with Adams when he was in the city last week. Theres been a failure on our national government. If we point to just the president, were giving everybody else an out, and Im not going to do that, Adams said. Theres an obligation to come up with real immigration reform. Still, Adams steady barbs of Biden have led fellow Democrats to level criticisms of their own at the mayor, who they view as undermining the president in whats shaping up to be a tight reelection run that could feature a rematch against Trump, Bidens Republican opponent in the 2020 presidential race. After Adams predicted early this month that the migrant crisis would destroy the city, even his more moderate allies began to publicly question why hes been so hard on Biden and worry such rhetoric could not only hurt the president but also Democratic congressional candidates regain control of the House of Representatives. Republicans have taken notice too, with many of them publicly agreeing with some of Adams rhetoric on the issue and co-opting it into talking points of their own as Texas Gov. Greg Abbott did Wednesday when, during a visit to the city, he praised the mayor for honing in on Biden. [The migrant crisis] is something that is unsustainable. I think those are the words of your mayor, he said. Those are the words of the governor of Texas. _____ The White House warned Thursday that nearly 2,000 long-term disaster recovery projects would be delayed in the event of a government shutdown, for which a Saturday deadline looms. The administration said in a memo that the Federal Emergency Management Agencys Disaster Relief Fund (DRF), which President Biden has supported increased funding for, would be impacted by a shutdown. In that event, nearly 2,000 long-term recovery projects in communities across the U.S. would be delayed, it said, like rebuilding efforts in Tennessee after a deadly tornado. Other projects that would be delayed, according to the White House, are rebuilding a senior citizen building in New Jersey following Hurricane Ida and Hurricane Ian recovery efforts in Florida. The memo also claimed a government shutdown would undermine preparedness for future emergencies. An Extreme Republican Shutdown would also undermine communities preparedness by preventing fire departments from accessing funding necessary to retain firefighters and purchase equipment, halting first responder training, and jeopardizing access to grants for disaster and terrorism preparedness, the memo states. The memo also highlights states with the most projects that would be delayed, including Floridas 272 projects, Louisianas 222, Kentuckys 122 projects, New Yorks 214 projects, Puerto Ricos 188, and Californias 78 projects. Biden has accused Republicans of not abiding by a debt ceiling agreement he made with Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) in May. Under that deal, lawmakers voted for legislation that set ceilings on spending for the next fiscal year, but some House conservatives are now demanding those levels be further slashed. The Senate advanced a bipartisan continuing resolution on Tuesday night in an effort to prevent a shutdown, but McCarthy told members of his conference on Wednesday morning that he will not bring that resolution to the floor for a vote after some House conservatives lined up against it. The White House, in the memo on Thursday, called out House Republicans for not voting on that bill. Their partisan approach stands in stark contrast to the Senates bipartisan progress towards keeping the government open and making a down payment on disaster relief funding, the memo states. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is facing down a dual threat as Congress careens toward a government shutdown, with potential consequences for an air travel industry already struggling with waves of delays. On top of losing funding, the law establishing the agencys authority is set to lapse without renewal. Both face a Saturday deadline. After passing the House earlier this year, the agencys renewal failed to proceed in the Senate. Its reauthorization is now tied up in the Senates efforts to advance a continuing resolution, or stopgap funding measure, to avert a government shutdown. However, with just days to go, a final deal on the continuing resolution and in turn a path forward for the FAAs reauthorization remains elusive. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg warned Thursday of the threats posed to the agency by both a potential shutdown and a lapse in authorization. Its not just the shutdown: FAA is operating on a 5-year authorization that also expires this Sunday, unless Congress acts, Buttigieg said in a post on X. This chaos among House Republicans must end so that Congress can do its job. More than 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 transportation security officers are expected to continue working throughout a potential shutdown without pay, according to the White House. While such aviation-related federal workers would largely be exempted from the shutdown, the Biden administration warned that previous shutdowns have led to significant delays and longer wait times for travelers at airports. During the 35-day shutdown from December 2018 to January 2019, absenteeism rose among air traffic controllers, which led to major delays and ultimately played a significant role in ending the shutdown, according to The Washington Post. I want you to imagine the pressure that a controller is already under every time they take their position at work, Buttigieg said at a press conference Wednesday. And then imagine the added stress of coming to that job from a household with a family that can no longer count on that paycheck. That is the consequence of a shutdown. A failure to renew the FAAs authorization would also mean that the agency could not collect revenue, effectively giving airlines a tax holiday that would likely be unrecoverable, Buttigieg added. During the brief lapse of the FAAs authorization in 2011, the agency lost more than $350 million, according to The New York Times. Buttigieg also warned that a shutdown could stymie progress the administration has made to reduce air traffic controller shortages. The FAA would have to stop training new air traffic controllers and furlough another 1,000 who are already in the training pipeline, he said. The complexity of the hiring and training process means even a shutdown lasting a few days could mean we will not meet our staffing and hiring targets next year, Buttigieg added. A June report from the Transportation Department Office of Inspector General found that 77 percent of critical air traffic control facilities were staffed below the threshold required by the FAA. Rich Santa, the president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, urged senators Wednesday to move forward with the continuing resolution attached to the FAA reauthorization and prevent a shutdown. Shutting down the FAA for any length of time is deeply problematic for both aviation safety professionals and the National Airspace System (NAS), Santa said. The FAA, its frontline workforce, and the flying public can ill afford another disruptive shutdown, regardless of its duration. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Buffalo Trace, known for producing pricey premium bourbons including Pappy Van Winkle, Blantons, Weller and others, is releasing a new collection that comes with a startling price tag. The Prohibition Collection, an annual limited-edition multi-bottle collection of vintage labels, will be available for $1,000. (Well, the suggested retail price is $999.99 but whos counting?) This isnt the most expensive Buffalo Trace release ever but its up there; in 2022, the distillery offered 199 bottles of Double Eagle Very Rare, a 20-year-old version of Eagle Rare in hand-blown crystal decanters for $2,000. And special bottles of O.F.C. Vintage have come with a suggested price of $2,500. But this collection may be the first that will be an annual changing bottle release, although in limited quantities to buy at select retail stores. What bourbons, whiskeys are in the Buffalo Trace Prohibition Collection? They are based on whiskeys that were legally produced at the distillery during Prohibition (1920-1933) as medicinal whiskey. The inaugural Prohibition Collection includes five brands that have not been produced for decades: Old Stagg, Golden Wedding, Three Feathers, Walnut Hill and George T. Stagg Spiritus Frumenti. The crate of five 375ml bottles, featuring packaging inspired by Prohibition Era labels, will be available to buy in October. The inaugural version of the new Buffalo Trace Distillery Prohibition Collection includes five historic labels. Prohibition Collection p roof, tasting notes Here are details on the individual whiskeys and bourbons, according to the announcement from Buffalo Trace: Old Stagg, 132.4 proof, uncut and unfiltered whiskey featuring an oaky, vanilla aroma; sweet and mellow taste with notes of leather and dark cherries and a smooth vanilla finish. Old Stagg was originally created in honor of former owner George T. Stagg and replaced O.F.C. Bourbon as the distillerys flagship brand. Today, the brand lives on as Stagg and George T. Stagg, both barrel proof whiskeys that have their roots in this Prohibition era brand. The Buffalo Trace Distillery Prohibition Collection includes five bottles labeled Old Stagg, Golden Wedding, Three Feathers, Walnut Hill and George T. Stagg Spiritus Frumenti for just under $1,000. It will be tough to find to buy in stores since it will be in limited quantities. Golden Wedding, a 107-proof rye whiskey that has heavy rye on the nose; a grainy, herbal taste with notes of dill pickle and rye; and a spicy, smokey finish with a hint of banana. The brand, which dates back to 1869, was originally produced by Schenley Distilling at the Joseph S. Finch Distillery in Pennsylvania. During Prohibition, its bottling was split between Schenleys Pennsylvania distillery and the George T. Stagg Distillery. In the late 1940s, the brand was moved to Schenleys distillery in Canada and would become a Canadian whiskey before ceasing to exist in the late 20th century. Three Feathers, a 100-proof, bottled-in-bond whiskey created by Buffalo Trace master blender Drew Mayville. Dating back to at least 1812, Three Feathers was first advertised as a rye before becoming a bonded and then a blended whiskey. Todays re-creation presents a vanilla, charred oak aroma with stone and light tropical fruit taste, and smokey, caramel and a slight cocoa finish. Walnut Hill, a 90-proof high-rye bourbon featuring a slightly citrus aroma with light corn and oak notes; sweet molasses, stone fruit and vanilla taste; and a smokey, woodsy finish. This historic spirit was bottled by the George T. Stagg Distillery during Prohibition with production overseen by president Albert Blanton. George T. Stagg Distillery Spiritus Frumenti, a 110-proof wheated bourbon honoring the medicinal whiskey produced at the George T. Stagg Distillery. Spiritus Frumenti, which translates as Spirit of the Grain in Latin, existed as a generic name for medicinal whiskey during Prohibition. Tasting notes include an aroma of caramelized brown sugar; fruity yet floral taste with notes of cherry and oak; and finishes with vanilla, wheat and citrus. Cardinal Donald Wuerl, then the archbishop of Washington, walks toward the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle before starting the annual Red Mass in Washington on Sunday, Oct. 2, 2011. | Jose Luis Magana, Associated Press The Supreme Court kicks off its latest term Monday, and to prepare, at least some of the justices are expected to head to church. Members of the Supreme Court, along with diplomats, elected officials and other top leaders in Washington, D.C., have been invited to attend the annual Red Mass at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle on Sunday, which will feature special prayers for anyone involved in the legal profession. What is a Red Mass? In many ways, Red Mass services are like any Mass. They involve prayers, a sermon and congregational singing. The difference is that a Red Mass highlights the work of judges, lawyers and others who administer justice, according to a guide to the services from the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle. Its purpose is to invoke Gods blessings on those responsible for the administration of justice, as well as on all public officials, the guide says. Related A similar guide from the St. Thomas More Society of Santa Clara County expands on that point. One significant difference between the Red Mass and a traditional Mass is that the prayers and blessings are focused on the leadership roles of those present and invoke divine guidance and strength during the coming term of Court. It is celebrated in honor of the Holy Spirit as the source of wisdom, understanding, counsel and fortitude, gifts which shine forth preeminently in the dispensing of justice in the courtroom as well as in the individual lawyers office, the St. Thomas More Societys guide says. Although Red Mass services are organized and led by Catholic leaders, they typically involve worshippers from a variety of faiths, according to Time magazine. Attendance by non-Catholics ... is a long-standing tradition, Time reported. The history of the Red Mass Red Mass services originated in Europe in the 13th century, when they were used as official kickoff events for a variety of courts new terms. The first recorded Red Mass was celebrated in the Cathedral of Paris in 1245. From there, it spread to most European countries, according to the St. Thomas More Societys guide. Around 1310, the services arrived in England, where the honored guests wore red. Thats how the Red Mass got its name, the St. Thomas More Society said. Over time, the red label has also been associated with Bible stories about the gifts of the spirit, according to the Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana. Red symbolizes the tongues of fire that descended upon the apostles at Pentecost bestowing the gifts of the Spirit, the Diocese wrote in its guide to the Red Mass. U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John G. Roberts walks down the steps of the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle in Washington after the 60th annual Red Mass on Sept. 30, 2012. | Jose Luis Magana, Associated Press The modern Red Mass Today, Red Mass services take place in more than two dozen Catholic dioceses across the United States, but the celebration is closely associated with the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle in Washington, D.C. Since the 1950s, St. Matthews has been hosting the Archdiocese of Washingtons Red Mass and welcoming a variety of distinguished guests. Its service is attended by justices of the Supreme Court (and) members of Congress, the diplomatic corps, the cabinet and other government departments, according to the St. Thomas More Society of Santa Clara County. Sometimes, the president even comes. This years Red Mass at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle will take place Sunday at 9 a.m. EDT. The service will be livestreamed on the Archdiocese of Washingtons YouTube channel. Red Mass fuels protests The Red Mass at St. Matthews is prominent enough to inspire protests. On Sunday, the group Catholics for Choice will lead a demonstration outside the cathedral focused on Supreme Court rulings from the past few years that the group opposes, including the 2022 decision that overturned Roe v. Wade. Our Green Mass is a prayerful offering that will allow Catholics the majority of whom did not want to see Roe v. Wade overturned to faithfully demonstrate their opposition to the Courts decisions and the churchs overreach that influences them, reads a statement about the event from Catholics for Choice. The Supreme Court will hear the first case of its new term on Monday. While government subsidies allowed Jordyn Rossignol to keep her child care center in northern Maine afloat during the pandemic, she finally made the wrenching decision in August to shutter because of rising operational costs. That federal aid, which may not have fixed the industry but served as a critical lifeline, is set to expire at the end of this month, putting other day care providers across the U.S. in jeopardy in what industry advocates are calling a "child care cliff." Rossignol, 35, envisions an even more dire scenario. "It's going to be a child care apocalypse," she said. "If someone came to me today and said they wanted to open up a child care center, I'd say, 'Don't do it.' I was in debt, and my health was suffering." "I couldn't keep staff because of pay," she added of the federal money, amounting to about $12,000 a month, that still left her struggling as she wrestled with payroll and food and training compliance costs. "I lost my best teacher to go work across the street at a hardware store." Jordyn Rossignol (Courtesy Jordyn Rossignol) A Century Foundation report in June estimated that over 70,000 child care programs, or about one-third of those that relied on funding from the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act passed in March 2021, could close. That amounts to about 3.2 million children losing child care. The potential loss of child care providers would have a profound impact on working parents, with women shouldering the worst of it, but labor and economic experts warn the ripple effect will be far-reaching in ways that those who don't have young children should be just as concerned about. "Our economy is strong. We have a strong labor market, and there has been a decent amount of recovery in terms of our job growth," said Julie Kashen, the director of women's economic justice and a senior fellow at The Century Foundation, a nonpartisan progressive think tank. "But if parents lose their child care, they will have to cut their work hours or leave their jobs altogether," Kashen said. "Fewer people in the workforce means fewer people spending money and the economy will feel it." To stem losses, Kashen said a handful of states, such as Alaska, California, Minnesota and New York, have attempted to steer millions of dollars to benefit child care providers who counted on the federal funding to pay for staff, buy supplies and reduce tuition costs for families. In some states, the crisis is deepening. In June, the GOP-controlled Legislature in Wisconsin voted to end its Child Care Counts subsidy program, with funding to help child care providers expected to be exhausted by February. Some Republican and Democratic lawmakers, however, are proposing alternate solutions. On the federal level, Democratic members of Congress have introduced bills this year to expand federal subsidies for child care providers and create federally funded, but locally run, child care centers. Republicans have resisted continuing the pandemic-era funding, initially meant to be just temporary relief. "At this point, everything is caught up in the government shutdown issue," Kashen said. "If this Congress can act on this before the end of the year, it will make a huge difference." The effects of the loss of funding may not be seen immediately, she added, but will come in waves over the next year as child care centers grapple with whether they can keep operating. As more centers close and those that remain open only increase already-long waitlists for limited spots, some families will have to decide whether one parent will need to stay home to care for their children, said Cathy Creighton, the director of Cornell University's School of Industrial and Labor Relations Buffalo Co-Lab, who has studied child care costs. Often, it falls on the mother to leave her job, Creighton said, putting women at a disadvantage in career advancement, widening gender pay disparities, and affecting their personal income and future benefits. "This just exacerbates already existing inequalities," she added. Jade Lebel, a Maine mother of a 2 -year-old and a 6-month-old, decided she won't return to her job as a teacher after realizing day care would cost a staggering $29,000 a year for her two children. Instead, the family will rely on her husband's income as an engineer. Yet, she worries about the sudden loss from the years she built accruing retirement benefits. "I have seven years' experience in my profession, and I have a really well-established job and the thing is, we still wouldn't be able to afford child care," Lebel, 29, said. Jade Lebel with her two children. (Courtesy Jade Lebel) Employers in female-dominated industries currently struggling with labor shortages, such as education and nursing, are going to feel the strain, economists say. And while that may force some employers to offer better wages, they may also pass higher costs along to consumers. Employees could see an impact on the workplace, as well, as their bosses struggle with filling positions and call on them to pick up more shifts or handle additional responsibilities which, in turn, may contribute to worker burnout. "Child care has been put on the back of parents, but it's a broken market," Creighton said. "It's not a market that can bear the cost. You can't say only if you're wealthy can you send your children to day care. It's not a good model for a democratic society." And as the average retirement age in the U.S. only increases, millennial parents can no longer count on their parents to fill a child care role as in previous generations. "You used to be able to have grandma help today and a neighbor tomorrow," Kashen said. "Now, your village has shrunk." That has some families scrambling to find solutions. Kat Brockschmidt (Courtesy Kat Brockschmidt) Kat Brockschmidt, who works for a youth program nonprofit in upstate New York, said local day care centers have extremely long waitlists, so she and her partner are considering paying another stay-at-home mom to watch their almost 2-year-old while they work. To quit her job, she said, is out of the question. "It's wild to me," Brockschmidt, 32, said. "People go out of their way to say I should have been putting my kid on a waitlist before I knew I was pregnant." Anila Rawasia, a mother of two from Montgomery County, Maryland, said she was floored by the long waitlists for child care centers in her area, but now she's lucky to have found a hybrid job where she can work from home as a recruitment specialist and also has her mother to help care for her 2-year-old son when needed. Anil Rawasia with her two children. (Vasiliki Photography) She said continued government funding of child care providers is necessary, but hopes companies and employers can step up with their own creative solutions for helping parents, whether it's through on-site day cares, subsidizing child care costs or work-from-home flexibility. "The longer we put off a sustainable solution, it's only hurting our country in the long haul," Rawasia said. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Christopher Bannerman: Chinese philosophy meets contemporary dance in world cities 09:29, September 28, 2023 By Muyang Shi, Yu Ying ( People's Daily Online London is the home to some of the worlds most renowned performance venues, but none is quite like 14 Dukes Road. Late in the 1970s, the redbrick building became home to Britains first contemporary dance company, London Contemporary Dance Theatre, and its associated London Contemporary Dance School, coining its name as the Place Theatre. Ever since then, the Place has established itself as a hub for combining dance education, creative choreography and artistic marketing. In 2013, the Place Theatre welcomed dancers and choreographers from Beijing, Taipei and London for a themed iteration of the intercultural project ArtsCross. Unifying this diverse crowd is a pursuit of both creative process and intellectual discourse, a duality that is best embodied by its Founding Director, Prof. Christopher Bannerman of Middlesex University. As Prof. Bannerman walks us through the corridors and rooms of the building where he once performed, he shares his personal journey from a dancer to a scholar, and how Chinese philosophy has always influenced him since childhood. A dancer and a scholar The Place Theatre (Photo/Lewis McCarthy) Peoples Daily Online: At a young age, you trained and performed as a classic ballet dancer with the National Ballet of Canada. What brought you to Asia and Europe in the first place? Christopher Bannerman: I trained in ballet originally in Canada and eventually made my way to the National Ballet School of Canada and then joined the National Ballet of Canada. I had been focused on dancing, you know, so intensively from the age to about 15 and I was the only person in my school who didnt go to university. I felt that in Canada was sort of quite an isolated experience and I felt like I wanted to explore the world. As I reflect on my time living at home as a teenager, many of my father's books were focused on East Asian and South Asian philosophy, and that link to philosophy led me to travel to South Asia. And in fact, I spent almost a year in India and I practiced yoga there and also saw some dance performances. It's just another kind of world of dance. As a part of my journey back to Canada I arrived in the UK and then I discovered a friend was here and he was in a company called the London Contemporary Dance Theatre. And today we're in the building where the London Contemporary Dance Theatre had its home. Peoples Daily Online: Throughout your dancing career you were well versed with both classical ballet and new dance, and eventually began to teach dance at a UK-based university. How did this change in role from professional dancer to professor enable you to connect with China? Christopher Bannerman: I was lucky enough that, when my dancing career had to end as every dancer does, I was able to move into higher education at Middlesex University. It had quite strong international connections that were just developing. And then I was also active in the dance world in both with the Arts Council England and with an agency called Dance East. They developed a programme for artistic directors called Rural Retreats. In 2007 we held the seminar in Switzerland and included people from the National Ballet of China, including the artistic director and an interpreter. There was an occasion that I sat down and had a conversation with the interpreter, whose name was Xu Rui. In that conversation we touched on Chinese philosophy which seemed to influence Xu Rui a lot and we started the idea of developing a kind of international exchange in the form of what you might call an intercultural dance project. The fact that I had an interest in Chinese philosophy and knew something about China meant that this conversation was deeper than just the kind of transactional exchange of choreographers to create dances together. From philosophy to choreography Christopher Bannerman (Photo/Lewis McCarthy) Peoples Daily Online: Soon after your initial conversation with Xu Rui, you were invited to visit the Beijing Dance Academy (BDA). What was your impression of the institution and how did this trip further your collaborations? Christopher Bannerman: Some months after my first meeting with Xu Rui in Switzerland I was contacted by him saying, Ive got some funding, please come to Beijing. So I thought, well, that's extraordinary. And I went to Beijing for the first time in 2008. My feeling was that it was the centre of both government and in a sense a cultural centre. And of course, as far as I'm aware, the Beijing Dance Academy is unlike any other dance institution in the world. It's far bigger in terms of its number of studios and in terms of its range of topics, range of subjects, the old dance subjects, you know, from ballroom dancing to ballet to Chinese classical dance to folk dance. It's all there. At BDA Xu Rui and I had a chance to have meetings about developing the project and we sort of conceived of a project that would use Chinese dancers, and dancers would be from the resident Beijing Dance Academy Company, but we would bring UK choreographers and organize the project so that two choreographers would work at the same time, one from China and one from the UK. We named the project DansCross and set in place something that we thought was an enabling structure to allow the artists to work and to experiment. And the Chinese dancers responded amazingly well by the end of the project. They were improvising freely and enjoying it and looked amazing on stage. So there were many positive things to come out of it. Peoples Daily Online: After the successful performances at DansCross 2009, Taipei University of Arts joined, and the project gained a new name ArtsCross. On what occasion was the new partnership formed? Christopher Bannerman: DansCross 2009 had been an amazing success and it was sort of a very important moment for my life and my dance life. And so Xu Rui and I really thought that we must continue this. So, I came back to London and was discussing it with friends and colleagues. Eventually I came into contact with a woman named Jennifer who was working here and with an organization called Step Out Arts focused on dance and other forms of East Asian heritage. And she said, oh, by the way, there's some people coming, you know, from Taipei, Taipei University of the Arts and maybe you'd like to meet them. So, of course, I said yes. And we went out for dinner, and I told them about the project. And the next day they called to say, would it be possible for us to join this project? So, then I emailed Xu Rui: I've got an idea. Xu Rui, being that remarkable person that is amazingly open minded, said, let me discuss this here at the Beijing Dance Academy, but I think that sounds like a good idea. Peoples Daily Online: With a new partner, what new structure was put in place to ensure that the performances reach their full potential? Christopher Bannerman: For the new ArtsCross project we set out with the idea that we would rotate the project around the world. So we went to Taipei in 2011, we had hoped to come to London in 2012, but we were unable to because the Olympics were in London and everything was crowded. So we went to Beijing in 2012 and then came to London in 2013 and we tried to maintain that rotation throughout the years, although Covid did cause some disruptions. We see this project as city-based and the cities that we were involved in were all world cities, cities that are dynamic, growing, changing and to some extent multicultural. Each one of them is unique in their own way and therefore we were tailoring the project to that partly through developing a theme for each event and iteration of our ArtsCross project. Next year in 2024, we are planning an event in Taipei and hopefully starting the rotation again. A changing world of dance and education Christopher Bannerman (Photo/Lewis McCarthy) Peoples Daily Online: The ArtsCross project is deeply rooted in Chinese philosophy. How were the performances received in the West? Christopher Bannerman: We came to London in 2013. We were here at the Place Theatre and the team was quite worried about our performances because they thought, you know, this is a new area of East Asia-UK collaboration. We were not sure we would get enough people in the theatre. What we hadn't really factored in was how many East Asian students there are in London. And how that network would provide an audience. And it did provide an audience so many that we had to open the dress rehearsal to an audience and make it public. So this is also of a changing world, changing demographics, changing mobilities, changing interactions. I think we're only sort of providing a vehicle through dance of something that's already happening in the world, but it's just not being captured or recognized. Peoples Daily Online: Now on its 12th year and having endured the difficulties brought by the Covid pandemic, ArtsCross has proven its longevity and popularity. Prof. Xu of BDA, Prof. Wang of TUA and you at Middlesex University have also led the project for more than a decade. What is your vision for the project in the near future? Christopher Bannerman: I have to say, of course, at some point I'm going to have to be attending ArtsCross events in a different role. Hopefully as a founding director, I will be invited to the performances. But somebody else will be doing the work of developing the projects and working on them. I will be there ready to help, but I probably can't carry this on indefinitely. And so, we have to think about succession as well. We are thinking about further developments, too. I think we need to form a better and stronger relationship in the UK like other conservatories around the world. Places like the Beijing Dance Academy, Taipei University of the Arts, University of Taipei and Hong Kong Academy for the Performing Arts have a ready-made dancer cohort whereas I've usually brought in dancers from different institutions. But I think now is probably the time to formalize this a little more and to form a relationship with the conservatory here in the UK that can be a partner in that project. Peoples Daily Online: As you gradually start to think about succession in the ArtsCross Project, is there any project that you wish to pursue on a more personal level? Christopher Bannerman: My situation and my mind the way I think about my career and the way I think about the world has changed a lot because of the ArtsCross project. And I suppose that's why I feel strongly about developing UK education in the way that it communicates better internationally, not just projecting itself in and of itself. But to be able to interpret itself better to different context and to understand other contexts better. And of course, the great tradition of education in East Asia and the Confucian tradition is something that is an example that we could look to and see ourselves in relation to because definitely the principles of teaching are not confined to one culture and there are principles that we could definitely learn from. And again, I'd have to credit my father. Although at the time of my dancing life when I decided to become a dancer, I thought I was rebelling against my father who was this philosopher with all these books. I'm not interested in becoming that university person. I'm going to be a dancer. However, those books were really foundational to my understanding, and therefore, the notion that we were involved in a project that's based on reciprocity is based on a kind of achievement of harmony space and form in which we can improvise and collaborate, work together. So rather than it being simply, okay, we're bringing our working methods here into this context and showing you how to do it. This is absolutely about exchange between cultures. (Web editor: Hongyu, Wu Chengliang) The looming partial shutdown of the federal government threatens United States military families, veterans and national security, North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper said while visiting Fayetteville the home of Fort Liberty, Americas largest military base by population on Thursday afternoon. The federal governments new fiscal year starts Sunday. Congress has failed to pass a budget to keep the government running after that day. Passage of a new budget, or even a temporary spending plan called a continuing resolution, requires an agreement not only among Democratic President Joe Biden, the Democratic majority of the Senate and the Republican majority in the House, but it also requires agreement among the Republican factions within the House. The House Republicans have been divided among themselves on how to proceed. We have almost 800,000 veterans in North Carolina, Cooper said during an appearance at Fayetteville Technical Community College. Weve got a handful of members of Congress who really want to shut down the federal government. And let's think about those 95,000-plus service members right here in North Carolina whose paycheck may be endangered. That not only hurts military families who are protecting our country, but it hurts our security. So they need to get their act together in Washington and avoid the shutdown, Cooper said. In addition to Fort Liberty, which has around 50,000 soldiers, North Carolina has Seymour-Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville and several other smaller installations. Coopers remarks about the shutdown drew applause from Fayetteville and Cumberland County elected officials, Fayetteville Tech students and others at Coopers event. Fayetteville Technical Community College student Nathan Entriken, at left, shows parts of a hybrid electric car to North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper and Elizabeth Biser, the state secretary of environmental quality, in the the schools electric vehicle repair classroom. The governor and the cabinet secretary toured FTCC on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. Governor visits FTCC to highlight clean energy, NCs military ties Cooper toured Fayetteville Tech on Thursday to mark North Carolina Clean Energy Week and the states connection to the military. During the visit, Cooper: Spoke with Joshua Goins, a Douglas Byrd High School graduate who, while in high school, gained skills to work in the solar power industry via FTCCs pre-apprenticeship program in solar power construction. The program is a partnership between FTCC and Blue Ridge Power, a North Carolina-based solar power construction firm. Met automotive technician students working on electric and hybrid-electric cars in FTCCs new Hybrid-Electric Transportation class. This course teaches students how to diagnose and repair cars with electric drivetrains. Visited the All America Veterans Center, which helps veterans enrolled at FTCC transition to the civilian workforce from the military. FTCC graduate Marcus Holley, an Army veteran who was injured in the war in Afghanistan, told the governor how the program helped him. Visited FTCCs Cyber Defense Education Center, which trains students in cybersecurity. Read all about it: New Fayetteville Tech course trains next generation of electric vehicle technicians North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper learns about Fayetteville Technical Community Colleges solar photovoltaic installation technician program during a tour of the campus on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. Cooper: Put pressure on Congress to prevent a shutdown During a news conference following his tour, Cooper brought up the potential federal government shutdown. He said many state government programs are paid for with federal tax money, and state employees work with federal employees to run them, Cooper said. The state is preparing for the shutdown, he said. I think we're going to have to be ready to deal with trying to help our active service members and all other federal employees in North Carolina in some way, Cooper said. But immediately, the thing to do is to put pressure on Congress to get this done, Cooper said. Many of them are saying, Well, weve been through this before. Were probably going to be able to get a deal. Even if we dont, its not going to last very long. Those people are wrong, Cooper said. I think even one day one day is going to be very difficult on all these families, he said. Many state government programs are paid for with federal tax money and state employees work with federal employees to run them, Cooper said. The state is preparing for the shutdown, he said. I think we're going to have to be ready to deal with trying to help our active service members and all other federal employees in North Carolina in some way. Senior North Carolina reporter Paul Woolverton can be reached at 910-261-4710 and pwoolverton@fayobserver.com. This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: NC Gov. Roy Cooper says federal shutdown will hurt American military A makeshift memorial for environmental activist Manuel Teran, who was deadly assaulted by law enforcement during a raid to clear the construction site of a police training facility that activists have nicknamed Cop City near Atlanta, Georgia on February 6, 2023. A makeshift memorial for environmental activist Manuel Teran, who was deadly assaulted by law enforcement during a raid to clear the construction site of a police training facility that activists have nicknamed Cop City near Atlanta, Georgia on February 6, 2023. The indictment of 61 protesters in Atlanta, Georgia, earlier this month on RICO charges rocked the nation. Civil liberties groups immediately denounced Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr who pushed forward with the indictment of Cop City protesters despite objections from local officials. The Defend the Forest and Cop City protesters, who were fighting to prevent the construction of a $90 million police training facility that would have demolished hundreds of acres of the Atlanta forest, now face decades in prison. Read more Georgias Republican Attorney General dated the start of the so-called criminal conspiracy to prevent the construction of Cop City to Floyds death. There was only one problem... Floyd died almost a year before the announcement of Cop City. Floyds addition in the indictment makes it clear that this is about pushing a political agenda, says Georgia ACLU Policy Director Chris Bruce.Hes criminalizing peoples opinions on Black men being murdered, says Bruce, instead of focusing on whats important which is public safety, which as the top prosecutor in the state, hes in charge of. Paul Henderson, a former San Francisco Prosecutor and Director of San Franciscos Department of Police Accountability says its clear this is about targeting a movement, not criminal activity. [The indictment] feels targeted to the reaction to George Floyd, says Henderson. They are focusing on the cause rather than the actions themselves. Why The Use Of RICO Is Raising Alarms The use of RICO in this case is also worth examining. RICO laws were never supposed to be used in this nature, argues Bruce. This is a breathtakingly broad and unprecedented use of RICO, state terrorism, and money laundering laws against protesters. And the Attorney General Georgia, Chris Carr, is wielding the sweeping law to stigmatize and target those who disagree with the government. Bruce isnt just making assumptions when he talks about the intention of Georgias RICO statute. Georgias RICO law was passed in 1981. It was based off of the Federal RICO statute, and the purpose of the federal RICO statute is to go against crime mob bosses, he says. When it was passed, the Georgia legislature itself said that it is not supposed to be used to prosecute civil disobedience. The overwhelming majority of people indicted werent charged with any violent or criminal activity outside of their association with the Defend the Forest and Cop City movement. Most of the protesters were charged for committing overt acts, i.e., actions that, while not inherently criminal, allegedly furthered the criminal conspiracy. For example, one protester was listed as having furthered the conspiracy because he reimbursed someone living in the woods for $11 worth of glue. That is not something Ive ever seen before, says Henderson, a former Prosecutor. [RICO] is such a powerful tool, and its a very dangerous one when used in subjective ways...There were very few people charged with the actual violence... but using RICO, they are now tied to specific violence they may or may not have condoned. In the next part of our series, we get into the indictment of a civil rights attorney, how mutual aid, collectivism, and social solidarity factor into this alleged criminal conspiracy, and what this all means for the future of civil rights. 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. As the Defense Department is pushing aggressively to modernize its forces using fully autonomous drones and weapons systems, critics fear the start of a new arms race that could dramatically raise the risk of mass destruction, nuclear war and civilian casualties. The Pentagon and military tech industry are going into overdrive in a massive effort to scale out existing technology in what has been the Replicator initiative. It envisions a future force in which fully autonomous systems are deployed in flying drones, aircraft, water vessels and defense systems connected through a computerized mainframe to synchronize and command units. Arms control advocates fear the worst and worry existing guardrails offer insufficient checks, given the existential risks. Critics call self-operating weapons killer robots or slaughterbots because they are powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and can technically operate independently to take out targets without human help. These types of systems have rarely been seen in action, and how they will affect combat is largely unknown, though their impact on the landscape of warfare has been compared to tanks in World War I. But there are no international treaties governing the use of these weapons, and human rights groups are uneasy about Washingtons ethical guidelines on AI-powered systems and whether they will offer any protection against an array of humanitarian concerns. Its really a Pandoras box that were starting to see open, and it will be very hard to go back, said Anna Hehir, who leads autonomous weapons system research for the advocacy organization Future of Life Institute (FLI). I would argue for the Pentagon to view the use of AI in military use as on par with the start of the nuclear era, she added. So this is a novel technology that we dont understand. And if we view this in an arms race way, which is what the Pentagon is doing, then we can head to global catastrophe. Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks first announced Replicator during a defense conference in Washington, D.C., in late August, calling it a game-changing initiative that will counter Chinas growing ambitions and larger fleet of military resources. It comes after years of research and testing in both the private and public sector, now reaching a point where the U.S. can move to field the technology. While autonomous systems have been used for decades in some form, such as automatic defensive machine guns, Replicator is designed to produce swarms of AI-powered drones and flying or swimming craft to attack targets. Hicks said Replicator will use existing funds and personnel to develop thousands of autonomous systems in the next 18-24 months. She has also publicly said that the initiative will remain within ethical guidelines for fully autonomous systems. Those guidelines come from the Pentagons own directives on the use of AI in warfare, updated in January 2023, which focus on ensuring senior level commanders and officials properly review and approve new weapons. The policy stipulates there be a appropriate level of human judgment before an AI weapon system can use force. A Congressional Research Service report noted that the phrase was a flexible term that does not apply in every situation, and that another phrase, human judgment over the use of force, does not mean direct human control but refers to broad decisions about deployment. Some critics also point out that there is a waiver throughout the policy that appears to allow for the bypassing of the requirement for senior-level review of AI weapons before deployment. Eric Pahon, a spokesperson for the Defense Department, declined to speak on the questions raised about the policy, including the language used and the waiver. The Hill sent detailed questions to the Pentagon on the concerns but did not receive a response. Pahon said in an interview the U.S. was the world leader in ethical AI standards. Were always going to have a person responsible for making decisions, he said. Were committed to having a human responsible for decisionmaking. Michael Klare, secretary for the Arms Control Associations board of directors and a senior visiting fellow researching emerging technologies, said he was dubious that it will always be possible to retain human control over all of these devices. He argued these types of self-operating systems could carry out unintended missions such as attacking nuclear facilities. The multiplication of these kinds of autonomous devices will increase the potential for unintended or accidental escalation of conflict across the nuclear threshold [that could] trigger a nuclear war, Klare said. We fear that theres a lot of potential for that down the road, Klare added. And thats not being given careful consideration by the people who are fielding these weapons. Fully autonomous systems have been feared for decades, with activists warning about the dire consequences of diminishing human oversight as they grow more ubiquitous. The leading concerns are: Making the decision to go to war will be easier the more heavily the world relies on AI weapons Algorithms should not take human life because they cannot comprehend its value and can be biased, for example targeting groups based on race AI weapons, expected to be cheap and mass-produced, will proliferate and spread to insurgent groups and bad actors The risk of escalation between nuclear powers increases with the use of autonomous systems The issues are not new, but human rights groups are alarmed about the pace of Replicator and worry its ambitious timeline will not allow for proper testing in the real world. Hehir, from the FLI, said the timeline announced by Hicks was very, very fast for an emerging technology that may prove to be overwhelming. Experts in the field also say the technology is lacking when it comes to humans retaking command over out-of-control autonomous weapons. I dont think thats a sufficient amount of time, she said. If youre waging war with such a high number of systems in a particular moment or a particular attack, then its impossible to exercise meaningful human control over such a number. In 2018, the FLI released a petition calling for the prohibition on any autonomous weapon taking the life of a person without a human operator making the call. The petition to date has been signed by 274 organizations and nearly 4,000 people. A 2016 FLI letter called for a complete ban on offensive weapons beyond meaningful human control, which has been signed by more than 34,000 people, including tech billionaire Elon Musk and theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking. The western security alliance NATO has established some standards on the use of autonomous weapons, including a requirement they only attack lawful military targets. But NATO officials concede that its unclear when and where the law requires human presence in the decision cycle and how wide a decision cycle is. While at least 30 countries have called for the prohibition of lethal autonomous systems, the United Nations (U.N.) has yet to ratify any treaty to govern the weapons, and to date there is no agreed upon definition for them. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for a legally binding agreement by 2026 to restrict the technology and prohibit lethal autonomous weapons from being used without human oversight. The U.N.s Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW) has been debating the issue since 2013. This year, the U.N. is expected to address the issue more head on; the General Assembly may bring up autonomous systems in October, and the CCW is expected to convene and discuss the topic in November. Human rights groups and activists largely expect the U.S. to eventually back a treaty, arguing it is in Washingtons best interest to do so, because America could help shape the use of AI weapons as adversaries such as China pursue similar tech. The Defense Department would not say whether it would support an international treaty governing the use of AI weapons. But as with other weapons treaties, the greatest challenge may be compliance, which is compounded by the fact that advanced AI technology can evade tracking and identification of its use. Peter Asaro, the co-founder of the International Committee for Robot Arms Control and a spokesperson for the Campaign to Stop Killer Robots, said AI use will be hard to prove and easy to deny. You have to have a good understanding of the technological architecture, he said. These drones [could] have another drone that looks just like it but doesnt have that [autonomous] functionality. Its really hard to tell. The Pentagon has now formed a working group to research, study and ensure these types of weapons are used ethically and responsibly. It also has a Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office overseeing the development of related tech. For the U.S. military, the only known combat deployment of fully autonomous craft is Shield AIs Hivemind an AI pilot software that operates the Nova quadcopter to scan areas and identify targets and movement on battlefields. Today, there are just one or two instances of the technology being used offensively, meaning its unclear what mass deployment of AI weapons will actually look like. Public records show only one known instance where an offensive AI weapon is thought to have been used, in Libya in March 2020. At the time, a Turkish-made drone system called the STM Kargu-2 attacked forces aligned with Gen. Khalifa Haftar, who leads one of two factions vying for power in the war-torn country. A U.N. report said the STM Kargu-2 drones were programmed to attack targets without requiring data connectivity between the operator and the munition: in effect, a true fire, forget and find capability. Its not clear how deadly the attack was. But as the technology rolls out, humanitarian organizations worry about an increase in civilian casualties from the mass deployment of AI bots and possible bias in who is targeted. The International Committee of the Red Cross recommends explicitly prohibiting drones that could attack a target without human knowledge and has called for limitations on all other autonomous systems, such as restricting their use in urban areas, for example. Machines cant make complex ethical choices, reads a petition from Amnesty International calling to create international restrictions around the technology. They lack compassion and understanding, they make decisions based on biased, flawed and oppressive processes. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Arizona cities redistrict every decade after the U.S. Census count in an effort to ensure fair and equal representation at every level of government. Phoenix City Council approved new boundaries in September, a move that affects how representation is set for the city's 1.6 million residents. Not every resident experienced a change of districts, but seven of the city's eight council members either added or subtracted constituents. Here's what you need to know about Phoenix redistricting: How many districts does Phoenix have? Phoenix City Council has eight districts, meaning eight city council members, plus one mayor who serves the entire city. With a population of 1.6 million, each council member represents about 200,000 people. Do not confuse city districts with Legislative districts, which are the boundaries that determine what which areas a state legislator represents. There are also Congressional districts, which are the boundaries that determine which areas representatives in the U.S. House preside over. Arizona has 30 Legislative districts, each with almost 240,000 residents. The state has nine Congressional districts of about 795,000 residents. Which Phoenix district am I in? Here's a visual of the new City Council district map. It takes effect January 2024. Or, you can go to this link and type in your address to find your district: https://www.phoenix.gov/district6/whats-my-council-district. View in a new tab. Who is my City Council member? Check which district you're in first. See above. District 1: Ann O'Brien. District 2: Jim Waring District 3: Debra Stark District 4: Laura Pastor District 5: Betty Guardado District 6: Kevin Robinson District 7: Yassamin Ansari District 8: Kesha Hodge Washington Learn more about the Council: Who is on the Phoenix City Council? What to know What rules does Phoenix have to follow when redistricting? The main two rules are federal requirements that: Each district be as equal as possible in terms of population. The boundaries comply with the Voting Rights Act, which means districts cannot be drawn in a way that dilutes minority voting power. Federal law requires municipalities with racially polarized voting meaning where voters of specific races often vote similarly to take steps to ensure minorities have a voice in elections. Usually, that means creating a minority-majority district, said Bruce Adelson, a former attorney for the Department of Justice's Civil Rights Team overseeing Arizona. In other words, if Hispanic voters tend to vote similarly, and if white voters tend to vote similarly but mostly different than Hispanic voters, and white voters make up the majority of a population, then Hispanic voters' efficacy reduces. The result is a racially discriminatory outcome, which the Voting Rights Act seeks to prevent. Cities also try to: Make districts compact and contiguous, meaning not gerrymandering oddly shaped districts for political motives. Avoid separating communities of interest, like a historic neighborhood. This gets tricky, as municipalities have many factors to weigh. Sometimes, certain factors have to be prioritized over others. Ensure "continuity of representation," which means keeping elected officials in their district when the lines are re-drawn. This is intended to keep as many voters as possible represented by the elected official they voted for. This is inherently never guaranteed. The very nature of redistricting means some voters will be moved around. After the City Council approved the most recent map, for example, some 17,000 District 7 voters under Ansari were shifted to other districts. So, some of those voters may have elected Ansari, but now she doesn't represent them. How many minority-majority districts does Phoenix have? Phoenix has four majority Hispanic districts (Districts 4, 5, 7 and 8) and four majority white non-Hispanic districts (Districts 1, 2, 3, and 6). Why is District 6 so weirdly shaped? The barbell shape of District 6, which connects the Arcadia neighborhood on the north end with the Ahwatukee neighborhood in the city's south end, was drawn after the 2000 U.S. Census. Despite decades of residents questioning the peculiar boundary line, city officials did not discuss reshaping it when they approved the new map in September. So how'd it get this way? Previous reporting from The Arizona Republic shows the City Council in 2000 opted to connect Arcadia and Ahwatukee in one district to avoid potentially violating the Voting Rights Act. For decades, Phoenix residents have questioned why City Council District 6 is barbell shaped, attaching Arcadia in the north with Ahwatukee in the south. Previous reporting shows it was to comply with the Voting Rights Act. South Phoenix has historically had the largest concentration of Black and Latino voters, and it still does. But Ahwatukee is mostly white. During the 2000 redistricting effort, Ahwatukee at about 76,000 residents was too small to constitute its own district but big enough that its voters would have diluted the efficacy of Black and Latino voters in south Phoenix to elect their council member of choice. Tony Sisson, president of the city's then-redistricting consultant, Research Advisory Services, told The Republic in 2005 that combining Ahwatukee with the rest of south Phoenix was "impermissible by the Voting Rights Act." In 2009, former Phoenix deputy city manager Rick Naimark, who worked on the city's redistricting efforts in 1990 and 2000, said the city also looked at similarities between Arcadia and Ahwatukee to justify the combination, including: both area's average household incomes were above $80,000 both area's households were majority owner-occupied More than 28% of residents in both areas had college degrees How many council districts do other big cities have? New York City at 8.8 million residents has 51 elected council members. Los Angeles at 3.9 million residents has 15 elected council members. Chicago at 2.7 million residents has 50 "aldermen" who make up the City Council. Houston at 2.3 million residents has 16 council members. Phoenix at 1.6 million residents has 8 council members. Philadelphia at 1.6 million residents has 16 council members: 10 that represent districts and 6 that serve at-large. Why doesn't Phoenix have more councilmembers? Phoenix's City charter, which serves as the city constitution, outlines eight districts and one mayor. While council members recently have advocated for adding city districts, doing so would require a charter change. Charter changes require the approval of voters, which means the City Council has to send the question to voters on whether they want the city to add districts before the city can do it. Multiple council members, including Ansari, Stark and Waring, have expressed interest. City staff have said the City Council can consider sending the question to voters after January 2024, when the new maps take effect. If voters approve adding districts, then the city would need to contract a redistricting consultant to begin that process. Reporter Taylor Seely covers Phoenix for The Arizona Republic / azcentral.com. Reach her at tseely@arizonarepublic.com or by phone at 480-476-6116. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Phoenix City Council redistricting: Why is District 6 weirdly shaped Former U.S. President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign rally at Drake Enterprises, an automotive parts manufacturer, on Sept. 27 in Clinton Township, Mich. Credit - Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images Donald Trump wants to put climate change squarely at the center of the Republican primaryjust not in the way those concerned about climate change might want. As his GOP primary opponents debated in California on Wednesday, Trump hosted counterprogramming by way of a rally for non-union auto parts workers in Michigan. Amid all of his usual bluster, he landed one of his new favorite criticisms of President Biden: a sharp critique of Bidens electric vehicle push. Youre going to lose your beautiful way of life, Trump told the raucous crowds. For auto workers, Biden's forced transition is a transition to hell. Since the early days of the Biden Administration, Ive been writing about how climate change will become a part of the political landscape in surprising ways, and there is perhaps no better example than Trump railing against EVs. More From TIME Its an important indicator of how climate policies are likely to play on the campaign trail. Many observers look at the polls to judge how much voters care about climate change, and decide Americans dont care all that much, even in the midst of record-breaking extreme weather. And yet, if the past months are any indicator, climate policy will be front and center as Biden tries to prove that his economic agenda is delivering green jobs and Trump pushes back. A version of this story also appears in the Climate is Everything newsletter. To sign up, click here. At the core of Trumps professed hatred of Bidens EV push is an argument that the technology harms American workers. It will come as little surprise to anyone paying attention that Trumps speech was filled with falsehoods and half truths. He claimed that if the U.S. pursues EVs the American auto industry would shut down within a few years as jobs move to China. In reality, most analysts think building EVs in the U.S. will help the country better compete with China. And he repeated a range of talking points slamming EVs as bad cars. It is true that charging poses a challenge in some places, but surveys find high levels of consumer satisfaction with the cars. Its perhaps more interesting to consider the element of Trumps argument that holds a grain of truth: the messiness of the transition to electric vehicles for labor. Indeed, Republicans participating in the official primary debate also picked up on that point. Simply put, making an electric vehicle requires less labor than making its gasoline counterpart, and so it stands to reason that in the long run the auto industry will employ fewer workers. Moreover, the workers that the industry does employ will need different skill sets. Undoubtedly, Biden has accelerated the transition to electric vehicles with tax incentives and other industry support. But blaming Biden for the challenges facing labor misses the forest for the trees. The global auto market has increasingly shifted toward electric vehicles, so much so that Bidens policies are really just helping the U.S. play catch up. And, while companies were keen to take advantage of tax credits, they began their multi-billion dollar electric-vehicle investments while Trump was still in office. Whats more, Biden has sought to minimize friction with programs to train workers for the transition and ensure higher wages. It remains to be seen how well the administration will be able to execute these transition programs, but they do signal that Biden is trying to grapple with realities of a changing market rather than talk it away as Trump does. All this leads to a tricky political dynamic. Bidens policies are intended to help the U.S. adapt to a changing global economy and tackle climate change at the same time, but his efforts will take time to unfold. In the meantime, its easy for a populist, reactionary politician to point to Bidens agenda as the cause of complex problems with little political consequence. The whole thing reminds me a bit of Trumps equally impossible claim during his 2016 campaign that he would save the coal industry and its jobs. He held rallies in coal country touting that claim and highlighting it at campaign events. Despite this, employment in the industry flatlined during his presidency and coal-fired power plants in the U.S. continued to close. Nonetheless, he still enjoys support from those constituencies. Voters in many auto manufacturing communities arent ignorant of the political dynamic playing out. When I traveled to car industry hubs in 2021, I found widespread consternation among workers and a rejection of political talking points. When they say its creating all these new jobs, thats a lie. I mean, youre just shifting jobs from here to there, Dave Green, a GM assembly worker who previously led a United Auto Workers branch in the Mahoning Valley, told me. Im a little more hopeful with Joe Biden and Democrats in office, but at the same time, somethings got to give. The Biden Administration is certainly aware of the challenge. From the get-go, Biden has framed his climate agenda around jobs. Now, he just needs to convince the American public. Write to Justin Worland at justin.worland@time.com. Rishi Sunak is pushing Germany to approve the sale of Europe's most advanced fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, ahead of an expected autumn visit to Downing Street by the oil-rich country's Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman. Germany banned the sale of all weapons to the Middle Eastern country after Saudi agents killed Jamal Khashoggi, a journalist and critic of Bin Salman, in June 2017. It softened its position slightly in July this year but remained stubbornly opposed to selling Typhoons to Riyadh. Sunak is now urging Olaf Scholz , the German chancellor, to lift the ban to allow the sale of 48 Typhoon jets to Saudi Arabia, which would be worth at least 5 billion. Eurofighter Typhoon jets are built and maintained by BAE Systems, employing several thousand people in Lancashire. Germany holds a veto power over the plane's sale, given it was one of four countries alongside Britain, Italy and Spain that developed the jet under Nato's watch in the 1980s. Currently, a third of the components for the jets come from Germany. What did the papers say? Scholz is believed to be in favour of approving the fighter jets deal and "is sympathetic to Britain's economic arguments", said The Telegraph . However, the German Greens Party, with whom Scholz's Social Democrats are in a coalition, "oppose it because of Saudi Arabia's human rights record", the paper said. Britain has also argued that Germany cannot block the export of Typhoons to Saudi Arabia since its rapprochement with Iran, which could end the rival nations' proxy war in Yemen. The original deal to sell 48 fighter jets to Riyadh was put on hold due to the war in Yemen, where Saudi-led Arab forces intervened in 2015. Despite the delay, BAE Systems remains confident that the deal will go through. One BAE source told The Telegraph that there appeared to be "movement" on Germany's position in the past year. The source told the paper that the motivation for the sale ought not to be purely financial, but also strategic. "From a geopolitical point of view, it's better [Saudi Arabia] align with the West and Western kit than our adversaries," the source added. "That's of high strategic importance. It's not just about money." Yet for those who oppose the sale, including most of the Green Party, the embargo has both strategic as well as moral dimensions: Russia's war in Ukraine shows that one's tentative partners can easily become adversaries. What next? "Much is riding" on the outcome of Sunak's entreaties to the Germany chancellor on delivering Eurofighter Typhoon jets to Saudi Arabia, said The Times . The implications of Berlin's decision will "go beyond the order for 48 combat aircraft", the paper added, "potentially influencing the future of the British defence industry and the readiness of Germany's allies to work with it on several sensitive next-generation weapons projects". As well as securing 5,000 jobs and more than a billion pounds of investment at BAE Systems, Britain is also keen to bring Saudi Arabia into the new Tempest programme, a joint initiative between the UK, Italy and Japan to develop an advanced new stealth fighter jet by 2035. Germany's coalition government "remains at odds" over whether to bow to British pressure, Reuters reported, citing anonymous sources that spoke to Welt Am Sonntag. Weapon exports to conflict regions remain "a particularly sensitive issue for the Greens", Politico said. According to The Times, however, Scholz and other senior politicians in his coalition are "acutely aware" that being willing to negotiate on such matters is "precisely what some of their allies expect as the price of Germany's credibility and reliability as a military ally". Lydia Romeike, the wife of Bringing Up Bates alum Trace Bates, was shamed for "underfeeding" her newborn son, Ryker, after she shared his eating schedule on social media. He has basically gained a pound this past week, so he is now good on all his weight, Romeike, 25, said in an Instagram Story that has since expired. Hes eating a ton and we can finally let him sleep through the night, which we are very excited about. Romeike, who gave birth on Sept. 12, said she was advised by a doctor to feed Ryker every 2.5 hours after he lost good amount of his birth weight. According to the American Pregnancy Association, it is normal for a breastfed newborn to lose up to 10% of their birth weight. Ryker weighed 6 pounds, 8 ounces at birth. He is currently 7 pounds, 6 ounces. When Ryker was eating every 2.5 hours, Romeike said she and her husband, Trace, 26, enlisted the help of family to help with nights. So that we can at least get a little bit of rest, she said, adding that feeding every 2.5 hours, basically drains you out. Romeike did not elaborate on how many night feeds her relatives helped with. Though Romeikes Instagram Story is no longer visible, reality TV blogger Katie Joy Paulson saved the clip, and posted it on her account Without a Crystal Ball. In her YouTube bio, Paulson describes herself as being known for her coverage of fundamentalist Christians. The Bateses, like the Duggars from TLC's "19 Kids and Counting," are fundamental Baptist Christians. Some people should not be parents feeding your child is literally the bare minimum, Paulson wrote in a lengthy and scathing post. In her caption, she also claimed that breastfed newborns and infants up to 4 months need to eat "every 2-3 hours." For those claiming this is mom shaming, please exit left, Paulson continued. "This is 100% neglectful and the baby will end up underweight. Romeike did not respond to a request for comment, but Trace contacted TODAY.com on Instagram. "We are doing exactly what the pediatrician told us to do," Trace wrote in a direct message. "He has gained a ton of weight and they say hes a very healthy baby. This breaks my heart. I absolutely loved when my babies woke up at night. They need to eat and to be held. They eventually find their way and fall into a schedule. If you dont like waking up with kids, dont have kids, one person commented. Another person responded that Romeike clearly is not ready to be a parent. Dr. Jay Lovenheim, a pediatrician in West Orange, New Jersey, tells TODAY.com that Romeike has done nothing wrong. I tell parents to feed the baby every two to three hours in the daytime and every three to four hours at night for the first two weeks, Lovenheim says. And then after that, if the baby gets back to their birth weight and is sleeping at night, we let them sleep." Romeike and Bates shouldnt get too excited, though. Once a baby gets back to their birth weight, they have more energy and starting waking up more to tell you, Hey, Im hungry, Lovenheim explains. "Bringing Up Bates" was a faith-based reality show that aired on UPtv from 2015 until 2021 when it was cancelled. The series followed the lives of Gil and Kelly Bates as they raised their family of 19 children. This article was originally published on TODAY.com Oregon State University researcher Cole Cerrato, left, and graduate student Lindsay Garcia prepare to send smoke from a small grill onto a row of wine grapes at the university's vineyard near Alpine, Ore., on Friday, Sept. 8, 2023. Wine experts from three West Coast universities are working together to meet the threat, including developing spray coatings to protect grapes, pinpointing the elusive compounds that create that nasty ashy taste, and deploying smoke sensors to vineyards to better understand smoke behavior. (AP Photo/Andrfew Selsky) ALPINE, Ore. (AP) The U.S. West Coast produces over 90% of America's wine, but the region is also prone to wildfires a combustible combination that spelled disaster for the industry in 2020 and one that scientists are scrambling to neutralize. Sample a good wine and you might get notes of oak or red fruit. But sip on wine made from grapes that were penetrated by smoke, and it could taste like someone dumped the contents of an ashtray into your glass. Wine experts from three West Coast universities are working together to meet the threat, including developing spray coatings to protect grapes, pinpointing the elusive compounds that create that nasty ashy taste, and deploying smoke sensors to vineyards to better understand smoke behavior. The U.S. government is funding their research with millions of dollars. Wineries are also taking steps to protect their product and brand. The risk to America's premier wine-making regions where wildfires caused billions of dollars in losses in 2020 is growing, with climate change deepening drought and overgrown forests becoming tinderboxes. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, grapes are the highest-value crop in the United States, with 1 million acres (405,000 hectares) of grape-bearing land, 96% of it on the West Coast. Winemakers around the world are already adapting to climate change, including by moving their vineyards to cooler zones and planting varieties that do better in drought and heat. Wildfires pose an additional and more immediate risk being tackled by scientists from Oregon State University, Washington State University and the University of California, Davis. "What's at stake is the ability to continue to make wine in areas where smoke exposures might be more common, said Tom Collins, a wine scientist at Washington State University. Researcher Cole Cerrato recently stood in Oregon State Universitys vineyard, nestled below forested hills near the village of Alpine, as he turned on a fan to push smoke from a Weber grill through a dryer vent hose. The smoke emerged onto a row of grapes enclosed in a quasi greenhouse made of taped-together plastic sheets. Previously, grapes exposed to smoke in the MacGyvered setup were made into wine by Elizabeth Tomasino, an associate professor leading Oregon State's efforts, and her researchers. They found sulfur-containing compounds, thiophenols, in the smoke-impacted wine and determined they contributed to the ashy flavor, along with volatile phenols, which Australian researchers identified as factors more than a decade ago. Bush fires have long impacted Australia's wine industry. Up in Washington state, Collins confirmed that the sulfur compounds were found in the wine that had been exposed to smoke in the Oregon vineyard but weren't in samples that had no smoke exposure. The scientists want to find out how thiophenols, which aren't detectable in wildfire smoke, appear in smoke-impacted wine, and learn how to eliminate them. Theres still a lot of very interesting chemistry and very interesting research, to start looking more into these new compounds, Cerrato said. "We just dont have the answers yet. Wine made with tainted grapes can be so awful that it can't be marketed. If it does go on shelves, a winemaker's reputation could be ruined a risk that few are willing to take. When record wildfires in 2020 blanketed the West Coast in brown smoke, some California wineries refused to accept grapes unless they had been tested. But most growers couldn't find places to analyze their grapes because the laboratories were overwhelmed. The damage to the industry in California alone was $3.7 billion, according to an analysis that Jon Moramarco of the consulting firm bw166 conducted for industry groups. The losses stemmed mostly from wineries having to forego future wine sales. But really what drove it was, you know, a lot of the impact was in Napa (Valley), an area of some of the highest priced grapes, highest priced wines in the U.S., Moramarco said, adding that if a ton of cabernet sauvignon grapes is ruined, you lose probably 720 bottles of wine. If it is worth $100 a bottle, it adds up very quickly. Between 165,000 to 325,000 tons of California wine grapes were left to wither on the vine in 2020 due to actual or perceived wildfire smoke exposure, said Natalie Collins, president of the California Association of Winegrape Growers. She said she hasn't heard of any growers quitting the business due to wildfire impacts, but that: Many of our members are having an extremely difficult time securing insurance due to the fire risk in their region, and if they are able to secure insurance, the rate is astronomically high. Some winemakers are trying techniques to reduce smoke impact, such as passing the wine through a membrane or treating it with carbon, but that can also rob a wine of its appealing nuances. Blending impacted grapes with other grapes is another option. Limiting skin contact by making rose wine instead of red can lower the concentration of smoke flavor compounds. Collins, over at Washington State University, has been experimenting with spraying fine-powdered kaolin or bentonite, which are clays, mixed with water onto wine grapes so it absorbs materials that are in smoke. The substance would then be washed off before harvest. Oregon State University is developing a spray-on coating. Meanwhile, dozens of smoke sensors have been installed in vineyards in the three states, financed in part by a $7.65 million USDA grant. The instruments will be used to measure for smoke marker compounds, said Anita Oberholster, leader of UC Davis' efforts. She said such measurements are essential to develop mitigation strategies and determine smoke exposure risk. Greg Jones, who runs his family's Abacela winery in southern Oregon's Umpqua Valley and is a director of the Oregon Wine Board, applauds the scientists' efforts. "This research has really gone a long way to help us try to find: are there ways in which we can take fruit from the vineyard and quickly find out if it has the potential compounds that would lead to smoke-impacted wine, Jones said. Collins predicts success. I think its increasingly clear that were not likely to find a magic bullet," he said. "But we will find a set of strategies. GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy defended his decision at Wednesday's debate to join TikTok earlier this month, saying he was making a bid for youth voters. Fox Business Network host Stuart Varney asked the entrepreneur why he decided to join the Chinese-owned platform that has been banned on federal government devices. "I have a radical idea for the Republican Party. We need to win elections. Part of how we win elections is reaching the next generation of young Americans where they are," Ramaswamy said. The pharmaceutical founder said the only way the country could declare independence from China is if the Republican party wins the presidential election and added that he is the only candidate of the political party who emphasizes "waking up people." Businessman Vivek Ramaswamy speaks during the FOX Business Republican presidential primary debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. GOP rival Nikki Haley said during the debate she found Ramaswamy's justification for using the platform "infuriating. "TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media apps," Haley said. "Honestly every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber for what you said." Haley, a former South Carolina governor, said the 150 million U.S. TikTok users are susceptible to having their contacts, emails and financial information stolen. Ramaswamy has criticized the use of addictive social media apps for young Americans, including during Wednesday's broadcast. The two candidates also clashed over foreign policy, specifically Russias war against Ukraine, after Ramaswamy said the candidates need to "level with the American people" on the issue. Just becausePutins an evil dictator does not mean that Ukraine is good, he said, referencing the countrys ban on 11 political parties with ties to Russia. GOP debate live updates: Republicans face off for 2nd time at Ronald Reagan library "A win for Russia is a win for China, she said interrupting him. "But I forgot you like China." Ramaswamy quipped back saying it would be more productive for the party to have a legitimate conversation rather than "hurling personal insults" In the collaboration posted on Sept. 13, Ramaswamy and influencer Jake Paul are seen dancing together with text claiming he is one of the only politicians trying to connect with the younger generation. Paul credited himself as the reason Ramaswamy joined the platform in a separate video posted the next day. "Getting Vivek on Tik Tok because i believe our politicians of the future should connect with gen z and milennials on social where we all live and breathe. Its bizarre that in this day and age our presidents have no connection with us via social. Only the occasional tweets. Meet @Vivek Ramaswamy," Paul wrote in the video's description. Ramaswamy's account has posted eight videos and amassed over 50,000 followers since starting his account. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Vivek Ramaswamy defends TikTok video with Jake Paul at GOP debate Seven GOP presidential rivals tangled Wednesday night on a Simi Valley, Calif., stage, arguing over who is the best to take on President Biden next fall. It was a rambunctious night filled with personal attacks by candidates battling for survival, culminating in a clash over curtains between Sen. Tim Scott (S.C.) and his states former Gov. Nikki Haley . None of the contenders are within spitting distance in polls of former President Trump, who for a second time didnt bother showing up for the debate. That added to the sense of desperation for some of the would-be contenders, who know the time for catching up to Trump is running out. Here are the winners and losers. WINNERS Former President Trump Trump without a doubt felt like the biggest winner Wednesday night. He wasnt on stage and instead appeared at an event in Michigan that signaled hes already moving his focus to a November 2024 general election against Biden. In national and state polls, Trump is far ahead of his nearest competitor, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis . He leads DeSantis by 42 points in the RealClearPolitics polling average nationally and by 33 points in Iowa. In New Hampshire, Trump holds a 31-point lead over Haley in the polling average. On Wednesday, none of the seven people on stage truly stood out. The night was filled with moments where it was difficult to hear what any of the candidates were saying given all of the cross-talk. Much of it also felt like an echo of the first debate. It was a little flat today, former Trump adviser Kellyanne Conway said on Fox Business immediately after the debate concluded. Her conclusion was that it was unlikely to change the polls. Polls dont elect presidents. Voters elect presidents, DeSantis told moderator Dana Perino when asked about Trumps dominant lead. That is true. But its difficult to believe the results of the Iowa caucuses or New Hampshire primary will be much different based on Wednesdays performances. Nikki Haley Haley, Trumps former U.N. ambassador, emerged as the biggest winner who was actually on the debate stage on Wednesday night. As with the first debate in Milwaukee, the former South Carolina governor sought to present herself as the adult in the room albeit one who wouldnt back down from a fight. Haley generated one of the most talked-about moments in Wisconsin when she got into a heated back-and-forth with Vivek Ramaswamy. That animosity carried over into the Simi Valley event, with Haley producing another memorable exchange when she bluntly told the biotech entrepreneur, Every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber for what you say. She went on offense throughout the night, mostly successfully. She directly took on DeSantis, generally seen as Trumps top rival, accusing him of banning fracking a hot-button issue in key swing states, like Pennsylvania. And she stood her ground when Scott, who also hails from the Palmetto State, pressed her on her support for hiking the gas tax as South Carolina governor and for her spending while at the UN. Bring it, Tim, Haley said to him as he opened his line of attack. It was one of several memorable moments Haley was responsible for during the debate. While it remains to be seen if itll help her in the polls, theres no question the former South Carolina governor had a solid night. MIXED Ron DeSantis DeSantis came into Wednesday nights event with perhaps the most to prove. After a muted showing in the first debate, observers said the governor needed a knockout performance in Simi Valley. DeSantis generally handled himself well during the two-hour event, drawing applause on occasion and pushing back against Haleys aggressive attack over his fracking record. He also stepped up his broadsides on Trump, repeatedly criticizing the president for being a no-show at the debate. Yet he failed to generate any buzzy moments and often faded into the background while some of his rivals, like Haley and Scott, managed to seize the spotlight. Ultimately, while DeSantis had a decent night, it might not be enough for his campaign to right the ship ahead of the Iowa caucuses on Jan. 15. Chris Christie Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) showed no signs of backing down from the anti-Trump persona he has cultivated in the primary, repeatedly attacking the former president and urging the party to move on. While it seems unlikely such remarks will endear him to the GOP primary electorate, Christie did at least manage to go viral with one of the nights most memorable lines, in which he addressed Trump directly through the camera. I want to look at the camera right now and tell you, Donald, I know youre watching. You cant help yourself. I know youre watching, okay? And youre not here tonight not because of polls and not because of your indictments. Youre not here tonight because youre afraid of being on this stage and defending your record, Christie said. Youre ducking these things. And let me tell you whats going to happen, you keep doing that, no one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore, were gonna call you Donald Duck, Christie said. Tim Scott Scott has staked his candidacy on the idea that voters want a politician who embraces hope and optimism as opposed to fear and vitriol. So it was notable that Scott used Wednesdays event to attack some of his opponents. The pivot suggests Scott is looking to do away with his nice guy image as he fails to catch fire in the polls. A recent CNN/University of New Hampshire poll found him trailing at sixth place with 6 percent support, behind Trump, DeSantis and others. The South Carolina senator came out swinging, knocking Ramaswamy over his alleged ties to China and pressing Haley a fellow Palmetto State Republican over her support for raising the gas tax as governor and for her spending while working as Trumps U.N. ambassador. Yet Scott failed to land any knockout blows. Haley easily batted away his attacks, even taunting him at one point. And Scott tended to get drowned out by his other rivals, even as he stepped up his offensive. Ultimately, his performance on Wednesday night might be an encouraging sign for supporters who have been hoping for a course correction from the senator, but it seems unlikely to be any kind of game-changer. LOSERS Vivek Ramaswamy While Ramaswamy had a strong first debate performance last month, the tech entrepreneur-turned-politician struggled to handle the attacks his opponents threw at him Wednesday evening. Many of the candidates came ready to put Ramaswamy on defense, particularly over his past business ties to China. Scott kicked off the debate by saying Ramaswamy was just in business with the Chinese Communist Party, while former Vice President Mike Pence said he was glad Ramaswamy pulled out of a business deal with China in 2018. However, one of the most striking attacks against Ramaswamy came from Haley over his decision to join the social media platform TikTok. Haley responded to Ramaswamys explanation for joining the platform by quipping, Every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber for what you say. The China-related attacks could stand to make him more vulnerable due to the issues salience with Republican primary voters. Mike Pence Like Ramaswamy, Pence had a good night at the first debate. However, Pence appeared to lose his footing on Wednesdays debate stage. At one point during the forum, Pence was asked whether ObamaCare was here to stay, and he instead called for passing a federal law expediting the death penalty. The response prompted moderator Dana Perino to reiterate her original question. I appreciate that, so does that mean ObamaCare is here to stay? Perino asked. The former vice president also found himself in an awkward spot when he attempted to build on an attack Christie made against first lady Jill Biden. Christie had swiped at the first lady, saying the president was sleeping with a member of the teachers unions. Pence attempted to take the line one step further, quipping, My wife isnt a member of the teachers union, but Ive got to admit Ive been sleeping with a teacher for 38 years. Doug Burgum North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum was in desperate need of a knockout performance on Wednesday, and while the governor tried to steal the spotlight throughout the debate, he was unable to land a punch. Throughout the debate, Burgum tried to interject, often to tout his record as governor. But he struggled to stand out in the fray and got drowned out during the crossfire. On top of that, Burgum also sometimes came off as a nuisance to the moderators. At one point, Perino even threatened to cut his mic when he was trying to interject. I am the only person on the stage that has a career in technology, Burgum said, speaking about artificial intelligence. Sir, well have to cut your mic, and I dont want to do that. I dont, Perino said. Burgums lack of a breakout moment deprives his campaign of the boost it needs to compete with Trump and the second-tier candidates and makes his viability for the nomination even less likely. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Whats the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word landscape painting? Perhaps its a pastoral scene from the English countryside, something by John Constable or Thomas Gainsborough . Maybe its a scene from the American West, a Monument Valley picture worthy of a John Ford cowboy classic. Or maybe its one of Claude Monets iconic impressionist works. All of these are conventions that the Wolfsonian-FIU in Miami Beach wants to dispel in the design-focused museums latest exhibition. The Big World: Alternative Landscapes in the Modern Era is about changing our ideas around one of the most well-known genres of art. But instead of gardens and farmland, we see cityscapes and industrial scenes, workers laboring on farms and in factories, and even scenes of war and turmoil. Painting, Agro Pontino Redento (The Pontine Marshes Redeemed), 1940Antonio Federico Leonardi (Italian, 19011977) Genoa, Italy. Oil on canvas. The Mitchell Wolfson, Jr. Collection at WolfsonianFlorida International University. Photo courtesy of Wolfsonian-FIU Our collection really contains a lot of materials relating to urbanization, to industrialization, to the expansion of the built landscape, says Lea Nickless, who curated the show with the Wolfsonians chief curator Silvia Barisione. The Big World opens on Thursday, Sept. 21 and runs through June 2, 2024. The two conceived of the show as a way to make do with limited space and resources while the museum building remains only partially open due to renovation. They drew from the institutions existing collection, featuring art and objects dating from 1850 to 1950, and its idiosyncrasies were a factor in determining the shows concept and focus. Mitchell Mickey Wolfson, Jr., the museums founder, didnt collect popular genres like impressionism, the big revolution in landscape painting, according to Barisione, which was defined by plein air pictures of outdoor scenes. What the museum could draw on were movements like futurism and Art Deco that emphasized the way the world was being changed by human activity. Its really kind of interesting to see artists and designers really responding to these changes with, almost kind of elation in a lot of cases, says Nickless. I think its ironic, in a way. Youre looking back and seeing how these visions are being used. Painting, Transparent Sierra City, c. 1930 Rinaldo Cuneo (American, 18771939) San Francisco, California. Oil on canvas. The Mitchell Wolfson, Jr. Collection at Wolfsonian-FIU. Photo courtesy of Wolfsonian-FIU The show is split into three sections in roughly chronological order, which takes into account the move from the agrarian and rural to the industrial and urban. The Natural World is the start with traditional scenes of mountains, forests, and farmland. Soon, in The Built Environment, industry begins to take over, and the wild landscapes are replaced with factories, skyscrapers, and cityscapes. Barisione in particular refers to one painting, one by Norman Wilkinson showing a power station with massive smokestacks rising above a riverbank. I see them as the new monuments in the landscape, says Nickless. The show also does away with the idea that a proper landscape has to be a flat, two-dimensional image. Plenty of other objects feature in the show, demonstrating the genres use in applied arts and design. The biggest and most impressive of them all is a Baldwin baby grand piano created for the 1904 Worlds Fair in St. Louis, carved ornately from mahogany by Clement J. Barnhorn and featuring side panels painted by Joseph Henry Gest. There are a few ceramics, including a George Schreiber vase depicting Manhattan skyscrapers and an ornate Wedgwood vase with a Chinoiserie dragon-and-temple motif. Piano, American Art Piano, 1904. For the 1904 St. Louis Louisiana Purchase Exposition Joseph Henry Gest (American, 18591935), painter Clement J. Barnhorn (American, 18571935), sculptor Baldwin Piano Company, Cincinnati, Ohio, manufacturer Mahogany, paint, metal, ivory. The Mitchell Wolfson, Jr. Collection at Wolfsonian-FIU. Photo courtesy of Wolfsonian-FIU The Wedgwood take on Oriental themes contrasts well with an object of actual Asian origin, one with a much darker subtext: An ornately painted black kimono from Imperial Japan depicting the invasion of Manchuria. Part of the Wolfsonians collection of propaganda kimonos, it features a soldier on a white horse waving the Japanese rising sun flag, today considered a symbol of the countrys militarist past equated by some with the Nazi swastika. Several other objects in the show feature political undertones, from Works Progress Administration murals to a souvenir plate showing Adolf Hitlers Bavarian chalet. Nickless says the museum aims to encourage people to explore the intent behind these artworks. Kimono, Cavalry Officer in China, 1930s Japan. Painted and embroidered silk, metal thread. Gift of Erik Jacobsen at Wolfsonian-FIU. Photo courtesy of Wolfsonian-FIU Thats another layer that, when youre looking at each of these images, you kind of have to try and figure out a little bit. Like Okay, what was the purpose of this image? Was it used to promote an idea? To promote an agenda? Is it the underlying message of a national entity, or of a corporate entity? Painting, La bataille pour la ville (The Battle for the City), 1944. Raymond Daussy (French, 19182010) Paris. Oil on canvas. The Mitchell Wolfson, Jr. Collection at WolfsonianFlorida International University. Photo courtesy of Wolfsonian-FIU Its the shows third part, The Battle for the Land, which perhaps feels the most prescient to our era. Artists begin to contend with the dark side of industry and progress, the continent-spanning wars that dominated the early 20th century. Artists like Raymond Daussy depict cities in ruins; others show the effects of human progress on the surrounding landscape. One by Virginia Beresford shows a man looking upon a gnarled, dead tree in the midst of a barren field; skyscrapers rising in the distance behind it. Our founder Mickey Wolfson was always looking at the iconography of the defoliated tree, says Nickless, how its almost a symbol of degradation of the land. The Big World: Alternative Landscapes in the Modern Era WHEN: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday. Opens Thursday, Sept. 21 through Sunday, June 2, 2024. WHERE: The Wolfsonian-FIU, 1001 Washington Ave., Miami Beach COST: $12 for adults; $8 for students with ID, seniors, and children ages 6 to 18. Free for Florida residents; students, faculty, and staff of the State University System of Florida; children under six; disabled visitors and caregivers; and museum members. INFORMATION: 305-531-1001 or wolfsonian.org ArtburstMiami.com is a nonprofit media source for the arts featuring fresh and original stories by writers dedicated to theater, dance, visual arts, film, music and more. Dont miss a story at www.artburstmiami.com. A 19-year-old Southern Methodist University student was killed in a car crash, in which the other driver admitted to drinking a margarita before getting behind the wheel. The crash happened around 4.20pm on 24 September when 27-year-old Lynlee Pollis apparently ran a red light and hit Honor Elizabeth Wallaces car, CBS News reported. Ms Pollis, Wallace and her friend, who was in the car with her, were transported to the hospital. Wallace later died from her injuries, while her friend was in stable condition, police told NBC DFW. Police interviewed Ms Pollis at the hospital, where she admitted drinking one margarita before the crash and taking ADHD medication, CBS reported. She is reportedly suffering minor injuries. The 27-year-old was charged with intoxication manslaughter and intoxication assault. The SMU community is deeply saddened by the tragic death of Honor Wallace, Dr KC Mmeje, vice president for student affairs, said. Honor was a valued member of our community, and we offer our heartfelt condolences and support to all who are affected by this loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family, friends and classmates during this difficult time. SMU sophomore Honor Wallace killed in car crash (University Liggett School) Wallace was a sophomore at SMU, where she was pursuing degrees in English and Spanish. Theresa McKinney missed out on the delights of Madrid (Getty Images/iStockphoto) A US woman was forced to cancel her entire trip to Spain after an airline caught her attempting a popular money-saving travel hack. Theresa McKinney had originally booked a trip from her home city of Cleveland, Ohio, to Madrid, with a short stopover in Newark, New Jersey. However, upon realising her husband was going on a business trip to Boston, Ms McKinney decided to accompany him as she had always wanted to explore the New England state, reports Insider. When she tried to change her flight from Cleveland to Boston, McKinney was told by United Airlines that the cost would be $900. Instead, she booked a flight from Boston to Newark for $60 again with United intending to miss the first leg of her booking and then catch the second leg of her planned flight to the Spanish capital. This is a version of a trick known as skiplagging. Passengers will deliberately book a flight with a layover as they are often cheaper, but will skip the second leg, with the layover city actually being their planned destination. In this case, Ms McKinneys circumstances saw her skip the first leg. However, Ms McKinney had her flight to Newark cancelled by United for being a duplicate booking, meaning she had to reach the New Jersey airport on a JetBlue flight in time to join the plane heading to Europe. In the end, her choice to go to Boston cost her the entire holiday. Once I landed, an agent pulled up my itinerary and asked why I wasnt on my flight from Cleveland, she said. I didnt 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. Skiplagging is not illegal, but it is against most airlines terms and conditions. They told me because I didnt get on my first flight from Cleveland, my entire itinerary would be cancelled, and my only option was to rebook my ticket for the (apparently unavoidable) fare difference of $900, she added. Instead of paying the fee, McKinney cancelled her plans as they were mostly refundable, and later received a $439 airline voucher for the cost of her original trip. Youll never catch me intentionally missing a connection again, she added. The Independent has contacted United Airlines for comment. A woman accused of killing her coworker at a Hickory furniture plant in 2021 pleaded guilty to second-degree murder Thursday and was sentenced to 20 years in prison. Tangela Parker shot and killed Michelle Marlow using a 357 Magnum in January 2021, prosecutors said. Parker and her husband, Eric Parker, were arrested in August 2021 after eluding authorities for six months. PREVIOUS STORIES: Authorities said Tangela Parker shot Marlow on Jan. 13, 2021, at TCS Designs in Hickory a few days after a workplace dispute. The defendant called Michelle, excuse my language your honor, a (expletive) ) and told someone Im going to wipe the floor with her, said prosecutor Tim Gould. After the deadly shooting, Parker fled the state with her husband, who also worked at the plant. The Parkers spent months on the run before U.S. Marshals caught up with them at a home in Phoenix, Arizona. Authorities said the couple had changed their appearance and were living under the fake names of Jason and Elizabeth Reardon. Breaking Catawba Co- Tangela Parker is pleading guilty in the deadly workplace shooting of Michelle Marlow. Police say she and her husband eluded authorities for 6-months before being arrested in Phoenix, Arizona. Watch channel 9 at noon and five for updates. pic.twitter.com/HkvLMBKQCt Dave Faherty (@FahertyWSOC9) September 28, 2023 Marshals said the couple was very resilient -- even panhandling and begging for money after leaving North Carolina. MORE PREVIOUS STORIES: Investigators said the couple fled in their Honda CRV, living for 11 weeks in their car and taking odd jobs, including working at a ranch, to survive. They changed the tag on their Honda and found a room on Craigslist and were renting it at the time of their arrest. Parkers attorney said it was a phone call to her parents that led to the couples capture in Arizona. She has consistently said she has no memory of the shooting, said Vickie Jayne, the defense attorney. Jayne said Parker claims she doesnt remember the murder and was taking high doses of Xanax, which resulted in her having a diminished mental capacity at the time of the shooting. Marlows daughter spoke to the judge Thursday with her father holding a photo of his wife. The loving, caring compassionate, all-around exuberant, wonderful, radiant person she was, said Makayla Marlow, daughter. She took everything, said Justin Marlow, husband. And Im just not ready to forgive her yet. Her husband, Eric Parker, remains locked up at the jail charged with accessory after the fact for helping her flee. Tangela Parker was sentenced to 24 to 30 years in prison for second-degree murder. This is a developing story. Check back for updates. (WATCH BELOW: $250K bond set for woman accused in deadly furniture plant shooting) LANSING A woman has pleaded no contest to a manslaughter charge in connection with a cold-weather kayak ride that led to the death of her 4-year-old son at Lake Lansing. Claire Powers, 34, was charged with second-degree murder in January 2023, nearly a year after the boy fell from a kayak in an area of the lake off Shaw Street, just south of Lake Lansing Park South. Rescuers pulled her and her son from the water and took them to a hospital, where the boy was pronounced dead. Powers pleaded no contest to involuntary manslaughter last week in Ingham County Circuit Court, with an agreement that her minimum sentence would fall in the range of 12 to 24 months, court records indicate. A no-contest plea is not a formal admission of guilt but is treated as a conviction. Powers is set for sentencing Nov. 1 before Judge James Jamo. She remains free on bond. According to court testimony, Powers placed her son in a kayak on the partially frozen lake on March 29, 2022 and pushed away from shore, even though she had to break ice with a paddle to do so. She told police her son was knocked into the water when the kayak hit a patch of ice. READ MORE: Prosecutors drop charges in Bath hunter's 2018 killing on eve of murder trial Criminal case ends, for now, against Lansing area man accused of killing his family The boy was also not wearing a coat, according to testimony. Powers told police she tried to pull her son back into the kayak, but his life vest slipped off, causing the small craft to overturn, a Meridian Township police detective testified. No life jacket was found anywhere in the vicinity, and a person who discovered the two people in the water did not see a life jacket on the boy, the detective testified. "(The person) stated that she kept yelling to Claire to put the child on top of the kayak," but thought the mother might have become hypothermic "because she was not making a lot of sense," the detective testified. Powers told police she had just moved into an apartment on Shaw Street the month before. She said she went down to its private dock and grabbed a kayak kept there for residents to use, the detective said. The high temperature in Lansing that day was 44 degrees and the low was 17 degrees, according to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids. Powers was represented by the Ingham County Public Defender's office, which did not respond to a message seeking comment on Thursday afternoon. Contact Ken Palmer at kpalmer@lsj.com. Follow him on Twitter @KBPalm_lsj. This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Woman pleads no contest in death of son who drowned at Lake Lansing A Leavenworth woman was sentenced Wednesday to 17 years in a Kansas prison for the killing of a man whose body was found in a ditch more than four years ago. Patricia J. Perkins, 37, pleaded guilty in August to second-degree murder and robbery of 23-year-old Travis A. Doughty. Prosecutors alleged Perkins, in concert with two others, lured Doughty to a rural part of Leavenworth County with a plan to rob him. Leavenworth County prosecutors have said Doughty was told by Perkins and the other two conspirators that they were going out to shoot guns. The trio picked him up in a vehicle, prosecutors said, and Perkins was the driver. On March 12, 2019, Doughtys body was discovered near Old Mills Road. Authorities determined he died of a single gunshot wound to the back of his head. Perkins was charged more than three years later, in September 2022. Meanwhile, another alleged conspirator, Joshua A. Brown, 39, of Kansas City, also faces charges in Doughtys killing. Roughly two weeks after the shooting, Brown was arrested as part of a major federal methamphetamine trafficking investigation. He allegedly had in his possession a firearm that the Kansas City Police Department Crime Lab matched as the murder weapon, along with 700 grams of meth and three other guns. In June, Brown was sentenced to 30 years in prison after pleading guilty to participating in a drug conspiracy that authorities valued at $10 million. He has denied involvement in the killing of Doughty, according to court documents. The third person believed to have been involved died of a drug overdose, according to Leavenworth County prosecutors. In a statement Wednesday, Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson said the case is not done for us. Our thoughts go out to the Doughtys family; no one should die under these circumstances, Thompson said. FILE - The fire-damaged Wellspring Health Access clinic is cordoned by tape, May 25, 2022, in Casper, Wyo. Lorna Roxanne Green, who says anxiety and nightmares led her to set fire to Wyomings only full-service abortion clinic is scheduled to be sentenced Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. (AP Photo/Mead Gruver, File) CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) A woman who says anxiety and nightmares led her to set fire to Wyoming's only full-service abortion clinic, setting back the facility's opening almost a year, is scheduled to be sentenced Thursday. Lorna Roxanne Green could be sentenced to 20 years in prison for burning the Wellspring Health Access facility in Casper. She pleaded guilty to a federal arson charge in July. Green said at that hearing she regretted what she did and took full responsibility. I knew right after" setting fire to the clinic that it was wrong, she told U.S. District Judge Alan Johnson. The May 2022 fire happened weeks before the clinic was to open. Extensive damage to the building being remodeled for the clinic kept it from opening for almost a year. Green admitted to breaking in, pouring gasoline around the inside of the building and lighting it on fire, according to court documents. The Casper College mechanical engineering student showed no sign of anti-abortion views on social media but told investigators she opposed abortion. She told a U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives agent she bought gas cans and aluminum pans the day before the fire, drove to Casper, and carried the cans and pans to the clinic in a bag, matching security video and a witness account, according to a court filing. She admitted using a rock to break glass in a door to enter and pouring gasoline into the pans in several rooms and on the floor before lighting it, according to the document. Investigators said they made little progress finding who started the fire until a reward was increased to $15,000 in March, leading several tipsters to identify Green. The clinic, which opened in April, provides surgical and pill abortions, making it the first of its kind in the state in at least a decade. Only one other clinic in Wyoming in Jackson, some 250 miles (400 kilometers) away provides abortions, and only by pill. Laws passed in Wyoming in 2022 and 2023 sought to make abortion in the state illegal but a judge has kept abortion legal while a lawsuit challenging the new laws proceeds. One of the new Wyoming laws to ban any drug used to cause an abortion would be the nation's first explicit ban on abortion pills. Teton County District Judge Melissa Owens has expressed sympathy with arguments that a 2012 state constitutional amendment guaranteeing Wyoming residents right to make their own health care decisions conflicted with the bans. Though abortion in Wyoming has remained legal, women in the rural state often go to nearby states, including Colorado, for abortions. A Boston construction worker is very lucky after he fell nearly 30-feet from the roof of a multi-family home in Brighton on Thursday afternoon, police say. Officers responded to15 Elko Street around 4:17 p.m. where an adult male had sustained a serious head injury after falling about 2 stories off a roof he was working on, according to Boston Police. Police say he is expected to be okay and has non-life-threatening injuries. On the door of that Elko St. home there is a stop work order from the citys Inspectional Services Department. And in writing on the stop work order it says failure to secure permit. According to a worker at OJR Construction they did have a permit and that they applied for it on Wednesday. However, a city spokesperson from ISD says they could not find one. Boston 25 looked on the city data base and the last permit for the address at 15 Elko was issued back in 2011. We called the construction company to ask again if they had a permit in place before starting the job. The same man said again they did have one and will be getting a new one on Friday morning. ISD tells Boston 25 they have to pay double the fee to get it, and that price is a percentage of the cost of the job according to the citys website. Boston 25 drone video shows the work on the roof was well underway. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Canadas Parliament has made the PR gaffe of the century by inviting a known Nazi collaborator into the House of Commons and giving him a standing ovation. While certainly an embarrassing blunder, this was more than a one-off mistake. The incident puts the full spotlight on the pattern of Canadian imperialism of whitewashing Ukrainian fascists; and on the complete stupidity of the ruling class, blinded by the war frenzy against Russia. [Originally published at marxist.ca] On Sept. 22, after an address by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, House Speaker Anthony Rota invited the house to clap for 98 year-old Yaroslav Hunka, who was invited to the session as a guest. Rota described this man as a Ukrainian war hero from the Second World War who fought for Ukrainian independence against the Russians. Later, it was revealed that Hunka fought for the Galicia Division in WW2, which was the Ukrainian volunteer unit of the notorious Waffen-SS. The Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies has said that the division was responsible for the mass murder of innocent civilians with a level of brutality and malice that is unimaginable. The Liberal party, faced with this massive embarrassment, is now throwing Rota under the bus. Rota insists that the decision to invite Hunka was his own and hes already announced his resignation over the scandal. But the blame should not lie squarely with Rota. In the process of inviting Hunka, did not one person think to vet him? It does not exactly take a PhD in history to know who was fighting against Russia during World War 2. Out of the 338 Members of Parliament, did not a single person make that connection? Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland graduated from Oxford with a masters degree in Slavonic studies! Its out of the question that she didnt know. By all measures, it is simply astounding that a screw-up this massive could happen in the first place. The Canadian mainstream media has largely tried to downplay this as just a simple error. For example, Globe and Mail columnist Andrew Coyne made a post on the website formerly known as Twitter stating that he was Glad to see everyone on all sides refraining from politicizing this unfortunate situation. As if inviting a Nazi into parliament isnt inherently political! And simply calling this an unfortunate situation is the ultimate understatement. Coyne seems to think this sort of thing could happen to anyone, but its safe to bet that the large majority of people reading this article have never associated with a war criminal. In fact, this is not the first time that the Canadian government closed its eyes to Nazi collaborators in the country. After WW2, the federal government allowed 600 former Galicia Division fighters to settle in Canada. This decision was justified under the pretense that they volunteered for the Nazis not because of a love of the Germans but because of their hatred for the Russians and the Communist tyranny. As Hitler had been defeated and the Cold War was beginning, the Canadian government now considered Communists to be the real threat. When, later, the Canadian government was reminded of the presence of these Nazis in Canada, it kept making excuses. In the 1980s, the famous Nazi hunter and Holocaust survivor Simon Wiesenthal sent the government a list of 217 former Galicia Division members who may be living in Canada. Subsequent RCMP investigations and a 1986 public inquiry concluded that Nazi collaborators had indeed settled down in Canada. However, none of the investigations recommended deportation, because the federal government knew of these individuals' Nazi pasts when they moved into the country, and because mere membership in the SS did not constitute proof of having committed a war crime! After insisting on action repeatedly and never seeing it, Wiesenthal eventually concluded that the Canadian government didnt have the political will to hunt down ex-Nazis and refused to set foot back in the country afterwards. It is also worth pointing out the many monuments that exist across the country dedicated to Nazi collaborators, including one in Oakville, two in Edmonton, and a street in Gatineau that was named after a pro-Nazi scientist until 2015. In fact, there are so many of these memorials in Canada that there is an entire Wikipedia page dedicated to listing them all! The governments association with Ukrainian fascists extends into the modern day. Another example includes none other than Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. Freeland has repeatedly bragged about her grandfather, Michael Chomiak, saying he worked hard to bring freedom and democracy to Ukraine. During WW2, Chomiak was the editor of a Nazi propaganda paper. When this information first got out, Freeland decried it as Russian disinformation, but all evidence points to the contrary. Freeland was also caught posing for photographs with a scarf bearing a Ukrainian far-right slogan. In the war against Russia, Canada has actively supported fascist elements within the Ukrainian army. At the beginning of the war, Canadian officials met up with members of the infamous Azov Battalion, which is a neo-Nazi unit thats incorporated in Ukraines National Guard. Government officials largely ignored reports over the political nature of the battalion, and were more concerned with how the news getting out would affect their public image than anything else. Indeed, this latest case of Nazi apologia in Parliament is not just an accident, but flows from the logic of Canadas involvement in the war. The current war frenzy and the desire to rally public opinion behind Western imperialisms opposition to Russia help to explain how not a single person in the government or the Parliament thought of doing a little background check on a Ukrainian veteran and why they all clapped like trained seals at the mere mention of having fought the Russians. This humiliation for Canadian imperialism is well deserved. Why is Canada really involved with Ukraine? NATO countries have poured billions of dollars into their proxy war against Russia / Image: Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, Wikimedia Commons All of this hullabaloo is happening while Zelensky has been touring the West to rally support for his counteroffensive against Russia. This counteroffensive has turned out to be a complete failure, and he is beginning to feel like he is being left to hang dry by his allies. NATO countries have poured billions of dollars into their proxy war against Russia, and are finding it increasingly hard to justify the war spending to their poverty-stricken populations. There are signs that the U.S. is preparing public opinion to accept the idea of abandoning Ukraine. Before his trip to Canada, Zelensky received a lukewarm welcome in Washington, where he only obtained a meager $325 millions in new funding. Canada gave him a warmer reception, and promised him $650 million worth of new funding, eager to show to its allies that it is doing its part in the war against Russia. What a success the visit wouldve been, if only Trudeau hadnt handed Putin this public relations victory on a platter! To be sure, Russias claim of invading Ukraine for the purpose of denazification is pure demagogy and Russia has its fair amount of neo-Nazis in their own army; but Ukrainesand Canadascomplacency towards fascists certainly doesnt serve to expose that lie. Instead of achieving a victory, Trudeau now looks like a clown on the world scene, and he has exposed the hypocrisy of the Wests proxy war. The government has always claimed that it is sending supplies to Ukraine to help defend freedom and democracy. But if their idea of freedom fighters includes people who fought for the Waffen-SS, that is enough to question their motives. While Canadians are finding it increasingly hard to make ends meet, the government is clapping for Nazis and spending hundreds of millions on weapons to weaken a rival on the chessboard of imperialism. In reality, Canada has encouraged and supported this war for the sake of its imperialist allies in NATO, particularly America. Russia has become one of the principal enemies on the world stage for the western imperialist powers. What this war is really about is keeping Ukraine in the fold of Western imperialism to better plunder it, weakening Russia as much as possible in the process. As much as Canada likes to present itself as the nice and peaceful country on the world stage, it is an imperialist power. Its willing to use any means at its disposal to further its interests, even if that includes turning a blind eye to the crimes of living monsters like Hunka and the leaders of the Azov Battalion. Any claim that the war is being fought over freedom only serves to cover up its true nature. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has revealed the details of his talks with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg . Source: Zelenskyy's evening address on 28 September Quote: "Ukraine deserves to become a member of NATO, and it will. Absolutely. And this is not just our Ukrainian ambition. It is the only effective security perspective for Europe guaranteeing real lasting peace. We are working to make practical progress on the issue of NATO membership." Details: Zelenskyy also said that he had discussed the format of the NATO-Ukraine Council with Stoltenberg. The President also spoke about the results of his talks with the French and British defence ministers. In particular, they talked about strengthening the Ukrainian military and the overall strategy for winning the war. Zelenskyy said that there is cooperation on the joint production of weapons needed by Ukraine and its partners. Background: Earlier, Zelenskyy discussed strengthening Ukraine's air defence network before winter with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. 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! German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has prevented the transfer of Taurus long-range missiles to Ukraine because he fears it will lead to a confrontation with Russia, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on Sept. 27, citing its sources. Other members of Germanys ruling coalition have approved sending Taurus missiles to Ukraine. On Sept. 4, German MP Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann wrote on Twitter that "he (Scholz) alone blocks this decision within the coalition". According to sources cited by the Wall Street Journal, Scholz was concerned that German personnel would have to work with the missiles on the ground in Ukraine, a move that he claimed would require a vote from parliament. Moreover, Scholz feared that the presence of German boots on the ground in Ukraine could cause a direct confrontation with Russia. It is unclear why Scholtz claims German personnel would need to be physically located in Ukraine in order for the Taurus missiles to be used. The Taurus missiles have been the subject of much discussion and debate, with much of the German hesitation stemming from the prospect of the missiles being used within Russias territory. Ukraine has received other long-range missiles from its allies, such as the Storm Shadow from the U.K. and the French-made SCALP, but the Taurus has significantly longer range. Behind the scenes, officials from the U.K. reassured their counterparts in Germany that Ukraine had not used Storm Shadow missiles on targets without prior approval. Negotiations about the delivery of the U.S.-made ATACMs, which has a similarly longer range to the Taurus, have been underway for a year. Although it was not included in the description of the latest round of U.S. military aid on Sept. 21, subsequent reporting detailed that some may be transferred soon. Read also: Oleg Sukhov: The West lacks political will to ensure Ukraines victory Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. X CEO Linda Yaccarino said her company could be turning a profit in early 2024. Yaccarino added that 90% of the platform's top 100 advertisers have returned in the "last twelve weeks." Yaccarino previously said that X was close to breaking even echoing Musk's comments in April. X CEO Linda Yaccarino delivered an upbeat message about the company's prospects during a largely tense conversation on-stage at Vox's Code Conference event on Wednesday. "Now that I have immersed myself in the business, and we have a good set of eyes on what is predictable, what's coming is that it looks like in early '24, we will be turning a profit," Yaccarino told CNBC's Julia Boorstin. Yaccarino previously said in August that the company was close to breaking even a point that Musk himself made in April during an interview with the BBC. However, the company formerly known as Twitter has struggled to achieve consistent profitability, even before its acquisition by Elon Musk. In the company's most recent available financial reports before it went private in 2022, Twitter posted losses of $222.4 million in 2021. It marked a drop from its losses of $1.1 billion in 2020. "90% of the top 100 advertisers have returned to the platform in the last twelve weeks alone," Yaccarino added. Yaccarino appeared to be referring to the exodus of advertisers from the platform after its acquisition in October last year. A report by nonprofit watchdog Media Matters in November found that half of Twitter's top 100 advertisers left the platform in the 25 days after Musk took over. And according to leaked internal documents obtained by the New York Times, the company's ad revenue from April 1 through to the first week of March was down 59% compared to the same period last year. Yaccarino was previously the chairman of global advertising and partnerships at NBCUniversal. Prior to joining X as its CEO in June, she had been with NBCUniversal for eleven years and was a major proponent of the company's push into digital streaming. Yaccarino and X did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Insider, sent outside regular business hours. Read the original article on Business Insider After Judy Le heard that the latest COVID-19 vaccine was approved, she set up an appointment at her local CVS pharmacy in Charlottesville, Virginia to get vaccinated. With an upcoming trip planned, she wanted to get as much protection as possible against the virus. But the morning of her appointment, the store called to cancel because they ran out of vaccines, she said. "I've just been reading a lot about more cases right now, so I just wanted to get it sooner rather than later," Le told Salon in a phone interview. On September 11, the Federal Drug Association (FDA) approved the latest COVID-19 vaccine formulated to protect against some of the strains circulating now, but the deployment of this round of vaccines looks very different than the initial rollout, where public health officials went so far as partnering with barber shops to ensure vaccines were distributed to communities. These vaccines are the first that aren't rolled out by the U.S. government, and without funding that was directed to public health programs in the state of emergency, the outreach is nowhere near what it was at the height of the pandemic, said Lori T. Freeman, the CEO of the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO). As a result, some people ready to roll up their sleeves to get the latest COVID-19 vaccine are being met with delays, canceled appointments and out-of-pocket costs. Meanwhile, pharmacists are walking out of CVS pharmacies and demanding the chain hire more staff to handle an overwhelming workload, while Rite Aid prepares for bankruptcy. "Without a pandemic, without a public health emergency, and with COVID dollars clawed back with the debt ceiling negotiations, all of that money for big campaigns is lacking," Freeman told Salon in a phone interview. All insurers are legally required to cover the COVID-19 vaccine, and the federal government is stepping in to pay for vaccines for those who lack insurance through the Bridge Access Program. But insurers have been slow to implement these vaccines into their systems, leading to the stuttered rollout of the vaccine, said Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease and health policy professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Want more health and science stories in your inbox? Subscribe to Salon's weekly newsletter Lab Notes. "There have already been people who have gone to their pharmacies and physician's offices looking for the vaccine and have discovered that they haven't been covered yet, so that means they're going to have to come back again," Schaffner told Salon in a phone interview. "A vaccine deferred is often a vaccine that is never received, unfortunately." Lead Director of External Communications at CVS Health Amy Thibault told Salon in an email that delays were due to supply issues. "Our pharmacies are receiving the updated COVID-19 vaccine on a rolling basis, but we're experiencing supplier delivery delays," Thibault wrote. "Regarding coverage, we've seen significant progress with payers updating their systems to enable coverage for the updated COVID-19 vaccines." Although the public health emergency ended in May, people continue to be hospitalized and die from COVID-19, with more than 1.1 million Americans killed by the virus since the pandemic began. Nationally, COVID hospitalizations have been steadily increasing since June, along with the rise of Omicron variants like EG.5 (nicknamed "Eris") and FL.1.5.1 (nicknamed Fornax.) The vaccines are predicted to work against these strains of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which evolves naturally in ways that will sometimes render vaccines next to useless. This is why new shots must be developed with some regularity. Meanwhile, approximately 18 million Americans have developed long COVID and data suggests that number will continue to rise with more infections. Although the immunocompromised, elderly and people with other health conditions are the most vulnerable to severe infection, COVID-19 continues to be one of the top 10 leading causes of death for children in the U.S. This rollout, including mRNA vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna, boosts immunity toward Omicron variants. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended the shots for everyone 6 months and up and projects that this could prevent 400,000 hospitalizations and 40,000 deaths over the next two years. One reason the CDC gave this blanket recommendation was simplicity, Schaffner, who attended the CDC's advisory committee meeting, said. This stems in part from parallel messaging on this year's "triple threat" of influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), the viruses that could cause significant illness and death this fall and winter. A newly approved RSV vaccine now exists, which was recently recommended by the CDC for pregnant people and adults 60 and up to protect themselves. However, people are already vaccine-hesitant and pandemic-fatigued, thus complicating an already full vaccination season, which could reduce uptake. In a survey released this week by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), just 23% of Americans said they definitely planned to get the latest COVID-19 vaccine, and another 23% said they might. But even those who want the shots may struggle to actually get them. Nursing homes, which have been decimated by the pandemic, have been waiting for vaccines, according to a recent report from KFF Health News (which is not affiliated with KFF), but neither the RSV or the COVID shots have been easy to get. "This is a much more complicated vaccination season than we have ever had before," Schaffner said. "I think this year will be a learning experience both for the general public and for providers." Not everyone agrees with the CDC's approach. Dr. Paul Offit, Director of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, said that if fewer people are expected to get vaccinated this year, the vaccine should have targeted the people most at risk for being hospitalized first. That's what public health officials from the U.K., Germany and some other European countries did. "I think the best messaging comes with being straightforward with the American public about who really most benefits from this because I think that gives you your best chance of getting people in those groups to get vaccinated," Offit told Salon in a phone interview. "You could argue when you say 'give it to everybody,' that is interpreted as everybody is equally at risk when that's not true." However, the healthcare system is very different in the U.S. than in European countries, Offit added. "We don't have a national health system and this is where that shows," he said. Regardless, the question remains about how many people will take the new vaccines. Only about one in five people got last year's bivalent booster and one in four adults in the U.S. are completely unvaccinated, according to CDC data and the KFF survey. Although it has been improving over time, uptake has been particularly low in Black communities, in part because vaccination sites are disproportionately located in white neighborhoods but also because of decades of mistrust built up in response to prior medical malpractice. Notably, just 6 million doses have been put aside for the uninsured through the Bridge Access Program, when at least 27 million people in the U.S. are uninsured, Freeman said. The demand for vaccines is a moving target that distributors are trying to balance without losing money, she added, especially because these vaccines have to be kept cold and take resources to store and administer. "Six million doses split out in that way doesn't seem to be a lot of doses or a lot of coverage," Freeman said. "We really don't know what the demand is going to be." Schaffner said he expects some of the wrinkles in the rollout to smoothen out over time. Although Le wasn't able to find a Moderna shot near her home in Charlottesville, which she preferred, she was able to get vaccinated with a Pfizer vaccine in the next few days from a local Walgreens. Although the pharmacy staff was doing the best they could, she still had to wait an hour and a half to get the vaccine, she said. "It's really a crucial moment," Freeman said. "This is the best time to make sure that people that want it and need it most get it." This is a locator map for Yemen with its capital, Sanaa. (AP Photo) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) CAIRO (AP) At least five Yemeni fighters from a secessionist group were killed in clashes with suspected al-Qaida militants in the countrys south, security officials said. The deadly fighting broke out Wednesday night between forces loyal to Yemens secessionist Southern Transitional Council and al-Qaida militants in the southern Abyan province, local security authorities said in a brief statement. Abyan's security department said that the secessionist forces, led by the Eastern Arrows Forces, reclaimed several areas that had been under the militants' control and that three of its fighters were injured in the clashes. No further details were given. It remains unclear how many al-Qaida fighters died in the battle. The group did not comment on the incident. The Southern Transitional Council is backed by the United Arab Emirates and controls most of Yemens south. It is at odds with the internationally recognized government and has repeatedly called for the south Arabian country to be split into two states, as it was between 1967 and 1990. Al-Qaidas branch in Yemen, or AQAP, is active in Abyan province and regularly carries out ambushes against Yemeni forces. AQAP is seen as one of the more dangerous branches of the terror network. On Sunday, at least four fighters from the Shabwa Defense Forces, also loyal to the Southern Transitional Council, were killed when an explosive device detonated near an ambulance in Shabwa province, the fighting group said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. It blamed AQAP for the attack. Yemens war began in 2014 when the Houthis swept down from their northern stronghold and seized the capital, Sanaa, along with much of the countrys north. In response, the Saudi-led coalition which includes the UAE intervened in 2015 to try to restore the internationally recognized government to power. Al-Qaida has since exploited Yemens ruinous conflict to cement its presence in the impoverished nation. After YNW Melly s first double murder trial ended with a hung jury, both the state and the defense have gone back to the drawing board to prepare for a new trial in October. Through the week, the rappers defense team has filed a slew of documents arguing that key evidence in the case should be thrown out, offering insight into how prosecutors and defense attorneys plan to approach the second trial. READ MORE: YNW Mellys lawyers urge judge to throw out rappers double murder case. Heres why Broward Circuit Court Judge John Murphy will decide on the requests likely before jury selection begins on Oct. 9. Judge John Murphy speaks with attorneys during a sidebar discussion during closing arguments in the trial of Jamell Demons, better known as rapper YNW Melly, at the Broward County Courthouse in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday, July 20, 2023. Demons, 22, is accused of killing two fellow rappers and conspiring to make it look like a drive-by shooting in October 2018. (Amy Beth Bennett / South Florida Sun Sentinel) Attorney Stuart Adelstein previously warned Murphy about the deluge in filings at a hearing, during which Murphy quipped that he thought the retrial would be simpler. Its going to be more complicated, I will advise the court, Adelstein said at the time. Weve taken somewhat of a new approach to certain issues. Texts and social media messages The bulk of the filings challenged evidence extracted from Mellys cellphone, email addresses and social media accounts. The rappers attorneys questioned the validity of the search warrants that police obtained to round up the evidence. Throughout the first trial, prosecutor Kristine Bradley introduced thousands of photos, videos and messages that Melly allegedly sent and received on a cellphone number tied to him as well as his Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat accounts. Some of the messages displayed during the trial were mundane, everyday exchanges, like many supposedly between Melly and his mother, Jamie King, in which King scolded the rapper for missing a show and reassured him that she loves him. Others, however, were used to allege that Melly was affiliated with the violent G-Shine Bloods set. Prosecutor Kristine Bradley speaks to jurors during opening statements at rapper YNW Mellys double murder trial on Monday, June 9, 2023, in a Fort Lauderdale court. For the prosecution, however, one message was a confession. On Oct. 26, 2018, a man known as Peezy Gambino asked if Melly was OK via Instagram DMs. I did that, Melly responded. Shhhh A documentary about the rapper The defense also urged Murphy to ban prosecutors from playing snippets of a documentary about Mellys rise to fame. Bradley showed clips of the video in the first trial while questioning Miramar Police Detective Mark Moretti on the stand. In the 21-minute film posted to YouTube in December 2018, Melly shares his background story growing up in Gifford, a small community on Floridas Treasure Coast. Hes sitting around and smoking with friends, including victims Christopher Thomas and Anthony Williams, as they reminisce about their past admiration for Chris Brown. The documentary, however, also touched on Mellys interest in guns and the cutthroat nature of the industry. One of Thomas messages echoed an ominous sentiment: Make you not know who to trust, you know what Im saying? The video ends with Thomas voice as Melly faces the splashing ocean. Then, white text appears on the screen: Four days after the completion of this film, YNW Melly and his friends were targets of a drive-by shooting in Miami, Florida, a statement that prosecutors argue link the rapper to the scene. Jamell Demons, better known as rapper YNW Melly, enters the courtroom for closing arguments in his trial at the Broward County Courthouse in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday, July 20, 2023. Demons, 22, is accused of killing two fellow rappers and conspiring to make it look like a drive-by shooting in October 2018. (Amy Beth Bennett / South Florida Sun Sentinel) The defense claims that the reason the documentary shouldnt be admitted is because the statement at the end of the video amounts to hearsay. Unless the person was there at the time of the shooting, it would be based on hearsay, the filing says. Further, the statement says the event took place in Miami, not Miramar. [If] ... brought in for the truth that the Defendant was at the scene of the shooting, then it is only relevant to a shooting that occurred in Miami. A possible motive? Mellys attorneys also urged Murphy to bar the prosecution from mentioning disputes between Melly and Williams over money and the YNW collective. The state, they argue, should provide a signed contract, correspondence or a verbal acknowledgment by Melly to be able to make this argument in front of jurors. In closing arguments during the first trial, Bradley provided the first inkling of a motive for the murders by pointing to text messages showing that Williams and Thomas frequently asked Melly for money. Look at the stress being placed on this defendant, as the only one bringing the money, as the only person who is paying the bills. The victims families have theorized that money was at the center of the murders. This theory was also outlined by the Williamses and Thomases lawyers in two ongoing lawsuits. Defense attorney Stuart Adelstein holds up an evidence envelope containing a cell phone during his closing argument in the trial of Jamell Demons, better known as rapper YNW Melly, at the Broward County Courthouse in Fort Lauderdale on Wednesday, July 20, 2023. Demons, 22, is accused of killing two fellow rappers and conspiring to make it look like a drive-by shooting in October 2018. (Amy Beth Bennett / South Florida Sun Sentinel) The State has no motive as to why Mr. Demons would kill two of his best friends, the defense says in the filing. In fact, in opening statement in the last trial, the State contended that there was no motive and that they did not have to show one. NEW YORK (AP) Beleaguered by a continuing influx of asylum-seekers, New York City Mayor Eric Adams is further tightening shelter rules by limiting adult migrants to just 30 days in city-run facilities to help ease pressures on the citys already struggling shelter system and perhaps dissuade more migrants from coming. The move was immediately criticized by advocates for migrants and homeless people as unnecessary and heartless. But the mayor called the move another step in our efforts to help asylum seekers take the next step in their journeys. Adams announced the tightened restrictions on Friday, after the Biden administration said last week it would grant temporary protected status to hundreds of thousands of Venezuelans who had arrived before July 31, a designation that would allow them to more quickly gain authorization to work in the United States. Hundreds of thousands of Venezuelans already in the US being allowed to work legally The move by the federal government has long been sought by Adams and other big city mayors, whose shelter systems are buckling under the strain of a growing number of migrants they must care for, a number that continues to grow daily. We appreciate the support we have received so far from our state and federal partners, but with more than 60,000 asylum seekers still in our care and without additional help, we will be forced to continue making difficult decisions, Adams said in his announcement. Green stickers indicate the row and place number of cots inside the dormitory tent during a media tour of a shelter New York City is setting up to house up to 1,000 migrants in the Queens borough of New York, Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2023. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, File) New York City says it has more than 60,000 migrants currently in its care, about a fourth of them of Venezuelan origin. Since the spring of last year, more than 116,000 migrants have arrived from the U.S.-Mexico border. Chicago to move migrants from police stations to tent camps before winter under mayors plan In July, Adams had placed a 60-day limit on shelter stays that critics say would be in violation of a court ruling that mandates the city provide shelter to anyone who asks for it. In May, Adams issued an executive order that unilaterally relaxed the citys right-to-shelter rules, which is now the subject of a legal battle. Earlier this week, Gov. Kathy Hochul, a fellow Democrat, backed the mayor on the matter, saying in an interview on CNN that the right to shelter was never meant to be an unlimited universal right or obligation on the City to have to house literally the entire world. This is another continuation of just putting people who literally are trying to set up their new life and having additional issues and complications that they have to navigate through, Murad Awawdeh, the executive director of the New York Immigration Coalition, said in a statement. Texas lawmakers offer border solutions as Congress debates budget, including border security Advocates have long pushed the city to provide housing vouchers for the migrants and fund efforts to establish more lasting and permanent solutions, such as expanding the citys stock of affordable housing especially difficult given real estate prices already make living in New York City a challenge for many. I dont think anyone wants to actually be in a shelter. Its not like living in the Ritz, he said. Its actually, for the most part, our newest New Yorkers have been put in tents and in really challenging spaces. Critics questioned the need for the time limit when the mayor had gotten a concession from the federal government that would allow Venezuelans a quicker path to securing jobs and become more self-reliant for housing. Any policy limiting the amount of time that our clients can reside in shelter is arbitrary and devoid of compassion, the Legal Aid Society and the Coalition for the Homeless said in a joint statement. The mayors office said housing and other services could drain about $12 billion over three years, forcing him to seek significant budget cuts that would hamper his citys ability to adequately provide city services. The mayor vowed to provide migrants with intensified casework services to help new arrivals survive outside the shelter system once they have reached the 30-day limit. Migrants who are already on two-month notice but have been unable to find other accommodations will be allowed 30 more shelter days, according to the plan announced Friday. Over the past two months, the city said, 60-day notices had been issued to about 13,000 adult migrants, Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom has said that the city needs to more quickly transition migrants into other housing. The city said it has opened 210 emergency shelters, including 17 of what it called large-scale humanitarian relief centers. And it is looking for more space, including erecting additional tents to house cots for migrants who need a place to sleep. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com. The next list of potential York County road improvements paid for through Pennies for Progress likely will surpass the $300 million mark. If so, it would be the largest Pennies campaign to date. It would be larger than the first two Pennies referendums combined. It also would be based on recent precedent. The fourth Pennies for Progress campaign, approved in 2017, had a $278 million budget. With about a year-and-a-half left of the seven-year collection period, Pennies program manager Patrick Hamilton said Pennies 4 should generate more money than initially projected. We do anticipate collecting over $300 million on Pennies 4, Hamilton told transportation and elected officials earlier this month. Thats the good news. The bad news is (road construction) costs are through the roof the last year and a half. Hamilton hasnt publicly given a precise figure yet for what the Pennies 5 budget might be. He told the policy committee for the Rock Hill-Fort Mill Area Transportation Study on Friday hed expect a higher referendum amount for Pennies 5 than for Pennies 4. We cant predict what the economy is going to do in five years, Hamilton said, but based on our current trend where we are today, I would expect the next referendum to be higher. When will those Pennies road jobs be done? York Countys top planner gives and update What to know about Pennies for Progress Pennies for Progress is a one-cent sales tax used to fund road improvements in York County. Voters approve the tax every-seven years through a referendum. Voters have approved four referendums. An appointed citizens commission meets with the public, stakeholders and county staff to create a road needs project list and match it with an amount of money the tax is expected to generate. York County Council then decides whether to put that list to voters. The Pennies 1 campaign in 1997 was the first of its kind in South Carolina. That referendum budgeted about $99 million for 14 projects. Projects ran longer and costs much higher than anticipated. Some projects carried over to later Pennies campaigns. But the county was able to use funding from the Pennies 1 vote to get additional money from the state infrastructure bank and other sources to cover shortfalls. Pennies 2 in 2003 budgeted $173 million for 25 projects. Pennies 3 in 2011 budgeted $161 million. Collection amounts came in respectively at $184 million and $186 million. Budgeted amounts, collection amounts and projects completed arent always a straight line. Pennies 2 budgeted $173 million but collected about $184 million. Still, a review of Pennies 2 in late 2008 found the down-turned economy, construction material cost increases, and other factors meant many projects would be pushed to Pennies 3. In 2009 the county found it would take an extra $169 million to complete all the Pennies 2 projects. Pennies began with outside consultants and companies. The county brought Pennies in-house in 2008 and cost estimates have largely been more accurate since. The current Pennies 4 collections are well ahead of past campaign totals due to growth, and not just population. The more products cost, the higher the tax. The more business, tourism or similar factors York County has, the more tax money is raised. Of course, sheer population growth cant be ignored. Pennies 3 passed in 2011, when York County had about 230,000 residents. Pennies 4 passed in 2017 when there were about 266,000 residents. Now, the U.S. Census Bureau projects there are about 294,000 residents. Also with more folks moving to York County more people to spend, people to shop that increases our revenue as well, Hamilton said. SCDOT data shows Rock Hill region has states most heavily traveled stretch of road. What comes next? A Sept. 20 public meeting in Rock Hill wrapped up a series of community events for the Pennies citizen commission dating back to March. The commission will meet again Oct. 11 to review projects brought up by municipalities, road experts and the public throughout the year. The commission will give a short list of projects to county staff for evaluation and detailed cost estimates. Just because a project is shortlisted doesnt mean its going to be on the referendum, Hamilton said. It just means they want to get more information about that project. The citizen commission made that point clear at a similar July meeting to evaluate road input received up to that point. Commission members stated then they would send some projects they had concerns about to county staff just to get more detailed information. Including cost estimates they might expect to come back high and help exclude a road job. A lot of good projects: Panel cuts York County road projects list, seeks price details Hamilton said work through the fall and winter to evaluate and price projects should lead to a list of cost estimates for the commission to consider by February. That gives them a month or two to be able to kind of put the final list together, work with the finance folks at York County to determine what we anticipate the revenue will be on Pennies 5, Hamilton said. And then the commission will have to put the puzzle pieces together. A final roads list would emerge around May, Hamilton said. That list will go to York County Council for a final vote on whether to put the list on a ballot. Council cant change the list or priority ranking, which are key in which projects are likeliest to get done and how soon. Council can vote only to put the list to a public referendum or not. If approved, the list of road jobs would go to referendum in November of next year. If approved then, the tax would begin the day after Pennies 4 expires in spring 2025. General Valerii Zaluzhnyi , commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, met with British Chief of Defense Staff Tony Radakin to discuss the situation on the front and Kyiv's defense needs, the Ukrainian commander said on Sept. 28. Zaluzhnyi said he emphasized the importance of reinforcing Ukraine's air defense capabilities during the talks with the British general. "I thanked him (Radakin) for his visit and for supporting Ukraine in the fight against Russian aggression," Ukraine's chief commander wrote on Telegram. Earlier on Sept. 28, recently appointed U.K. Defense Secretary Grant Shapps met with President Volodymyr Zelensky and Defense Minister Rustem Usemov during his visit to Kyiv. Zelensky called the meeting with Shapps "substantial" and thanked the U.K. for its "significant financial, defense, and humanitarian support for Ukraine." Read also: Deadly drone arms race intensifies as Ukraine, Russia embrace the future of war Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The ongoing UAW strike represents a historic opportunity for the labor movement, which all workers and all revolutionary youth must vigorously support. In a new twist, Joe Bidenan enemy of workers the world over, and head of the most reactionary imperialist power on the planetshowed up in Michigan yesterday to support striking workers. [Originally published at socialistrevolution.org] Bidens appearance on the picket line is far from the norm, as many have observed. Needless to say, US presidents have historically opposed the struggles of the working class, whether through outright hostility or the appearance of mediation. In fact, no fewer than five US presidents have sent federal troops to break up striking workers. Indeed, Scranton Joe has been silent about the SAG-AFTRA strike all summer, and urged Congress to illegalize the railroad workers strike that loomed late last year. This all makes perfect sense, since the executive of the modern state, as Marx explained, is but a committee for managing the common affairs of the whole bourgeoisie. Cynical calculations by Biden and Trump alike Biden, head of the most reactionary imperialist power on the planet, showed up in Michigan yesterday to support striking workers / Image: UAW, Facebook However, with the 2024 presidential campaign on the horizonand in a context of growing support for unions and growing discontent among millions of workersboth Biden and Trump are forced to cynically vie for support from union workers. This has resulted in the surreal and disgusting spectacle of two bourgeois politicians competing to prove who is the bigger friend of the unions. Complete with ball cap, windbreaker, and megaphone, Biden did his best to present a convincing charade as he became the first sitting president to join a picket line. For his part, Trump is bailing on yet another irrelevant Republican presidential debate and heading to the Motor City to court blue-collar voters. However, Bidens considerations go beyond the upcoming election cycle. The president and his ilk are well-aware of the volcano of class struggle they are sitting upon, which is just waiting to explode. According to a recent Gallup Poll, 67% of Americans support unions, up from 48% in 2009, while three out of four Americans support the UAW strike. Biden is acting on a well-known principle: keep your friends closeand your enemies even closer. If a crisis for his class is coming, in the form of a historic upsurge in the class struggle, then its best to get out ahead of it as much as possible. The US working class is stronger than everbut it needs a proper leadership This bizarre development could only happen in a country where the working class constitutes the overwhelming majority of society, yet lacks a leadership that understands and is prepared to unleash its unstoppable potential power. There is not yet even a reformist workers party in the US, much less a serious class-struggle leadership. It is certainly symptomatic of the volatile period we live in that the sitting US president feels compelled to appear to support the UAW strike. White House Press Secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, even argued, [Biden] is pro-UAW. He is pro-workers. He believes there could be a win-win agreement here, but hes always going to stand on the side of workers. It is certainly symptomatic of the volatile period we live in that the sitting US president feels compelled to appear to support the UAW / Image: UAW, Facebook None of this is true, of course, but the White House is forced to say it nonethelessand we can expect Trump to make a similar case. This whole episode reflects two key dynamics: The growing class-consciousness, pro-union sentiment, anger and willingness to fight of the working class The lamentable state of the labor leadership in this country Unfortunately, instead of explaining the absurdity of a capitalist politician like Biden claiming to support this struggle, UAW President Shawn Fain stood beside him and tacitly seemed to support Bidens photo op. Meanwhile, the liberal socialists over at Jacobin magazine, true to form, are gushing about the supposed power of a US president standing shoulder to shoulder with striking workers. This is an astonishingly bad conclusion to draw from this calculated circus act. Nonetheless, it is par for the course for people whose role is to inject pessimism and confusion into the workers movement. The role of genuine socialists is to explain that Biden is a class enemy and that the working class needs its own partynot to foment illusions in collaborating with the capitalist Democratic Party and thereby pressuring Biden to support the struggle. All of this goes to show why we need to build a genuine mass communist party, with branches in every workplace, union, campus, and working-class neighborhooda task which the International Marxist Tendency has begun. President Volodymyr Zelensky held separate meetings with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu during the visit of the two officials to Kyiv on Sept. 28, the president announced on his Telegram channel. Zelensky held a press briefing with Stoltenberg following their meeting. The president said that both Kyiv and NATO are doing everything they can to ensure Ukraine becomes a member of the alliance as soon as possible. "Ukraine already defends the common free space that unites all NATO members," Zelensky said. "Ukraine's victory in this unprovoked and criminal war unleashed by Russia is guaranteed to ensure long-term security and peace, and not only for our country but for the entire continent." Read also: Doug Klain: How to open NATOs door for Ukraine The president said he discussed all key defense issues with Stoltenberg, including the situation on the battlefield and the needs of the Ukrainian military. Zelensky also held talks with Lecornu, primarily discussing the ways to strengthen Ukraine's air defense capabilities, the president wrote on his Telegram channel. Zelensky thanked France "for the support and military assistance it has already provided." "Together, we can do even more to protect freedom and life," he noted. Prior to his meeting with Zelensky, Lecornu honored fallen Ukrainian soldiers at the Wall of Remembrance, accompanied by French Ambassador in Kyiv Gael Veyssiere. Ukraine's capital was visited today on Sept. 28 also by U.K. Defense Secretary Grant Shapps. Zelensky called his meeting with the British defense chief "substantial" and thanked the U.K. for its "significant financial, defense, and humanitarian support." Read also: Alexander Query: Macrons spineless realpolitik poses danger to Ukraine and beyond Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. President Volodymyr Zelensky met with recently appointed U.K. Defense Minister Grant Shapps in Kyiv on Sept. 28, the president announced on social media. Shapps, who previously served as the U.K. Energy Secretary, was appointed by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Aug. 31, replacing the outgoing Defense Minister Ben Wallace, who had held the position since 2019. It was Shapps' second visit to Kyiv and his first in his new role as defense minister. In addition to meeting with Zelensky, Shapps also participated in talks with other Ukrainian officials, including his Ukrainian counterpart, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, also recently appointed. In a post on Facebook, Zelensky called the meeting "substantial," and thanked the U.K. for its "significant financial, defense, and humanitarian support for Ukraine." Shapps emphasized in a post on Twitter that the support of the U.K. for Ukraine "remains unwavering." The outgoing minister Wallace has been credited for playing a key role in Britain's response to Russia's war in Ukraine. Shapps previously thanked Wallace for his "enormous contribution" to the war effort. The United Kingdom spent 2.3 billion British pounds (about $2.9 billion) on defense assistance to Ukraine last year and has committed the same amount in 2023. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine sends letter to G7 on use of Western parts in Shahed drones Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his team are working on new powerful measures to boost national security, the president said in an official Telegram video posted Sept. 27. Ukraine will be stronger. Ukraine will have more capabilities to defend itself, he said. Last autumn, Russian missile and drone strikes inflicted substantial damage on the countrys energy infrastructure. Major cities including Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Lviv experienced rolling blackouts and power shortages. On Sept. 7, Reuters reported that Ukraine was upgrading its air defense systems to protect the power grid ahead of the cold season. Recent Western deliveries of advanced air defense systems such as the Patriot surface-to-air batteries have greatly bolstered the countrys ability to defend its skies. Strength for Ukraine has no alternatives. And everyone who strengthens the state, everyone who becomes stronger, and everyone who helps fight against the enemy and achieve results for Ukraine - everyone brings our goal closer, he said. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine sends letter to G7 on use of Western parts in Shahed drones Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has discussed strengthening Ukraine's air defence before winter with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg . Source: Zelenskyy at a press conference with Stoltenberg in Kyiv, as reported by European Pravda Details: Zelenskyy said that he discussed key defence issues, the situation on the battlefield, and Ukrainian soldiers' needs with Stoltenberg. The president noted that it is necessary to put pressure on Russia so that it retreats. Quote: "We need to strengthen Ukraines air defence. We discussed the situation as we expect attacks on Ukraines energy infrastructure," the president said, adding that he asked for an increase in the air defence systems supply by partner states. Zelenskyy said the NATO Secretary General promised to make efforts to increase such supplies. "We need to get through this winter together, protect the infrastructure and our peoples lives." Background: On 20 September, Jens Stoltenberg, NATO Secretary General, stated that Ukraine needs its air defence to be strengthened with projectiles, components and technical maintenance for the already existing systems. 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! Firefly Fiber Broadband leaders gave a presentation to the Amherst County Board of Supervisors on Sept. 19 on the latest in its push for fiber broadband expansion to rural areas of the county as part of a $30 million investment. A wholly-owned subsidiary of the Arrington-based Central Virginia Electric Cooperative, Firefly Fiber was created in 2018 and celebrated a milestone of 20,000 active accounts in April. The fiber build covers 14 counties, including rural portions of Amherst County and much of Nelson County. Firefly President and CEO Gary Wood presented a map to the board showing rural areas of the county that are served by Firefly, other areas where the fiber build is under construction and portions slated for upcoming work. As of Sept. 19, the Regional Internet Service Expansion (RISE) project has invested $17 million in Amherst County, according to Woods presentation. Just more than 1,000 CVEC electric accounts are included in the fiber buildout area and 530 miles of fiber has been installed, the latest RISE figures show. Were getting about 50% to 60% registration in all our new areas, Wood said. He said Firefly has about 45 miles around Winton Farm in the Clifford area to build and has about 95 miles of fiber to install in the Pleasant View and Puppy Creek areas. Firefly also has crews working in the Elon area, he said. In areas Firefly serves, about 950 homes are registered for service out of just more than 1,700 that the fiber network passes, the report shows. Firefly expects to pass about 950 homes in the Winton and Pleasant View areas and anticipates about 600 of those to connect to the service, according to the presentation. Remaining areas will have another 3,200 homes that will be passed with 1,900 anticipated pre-registrations for services, Wood said. In areas of the county where future fiber work is slated to be done, the network will pass by more than 4,000 homes, the report shows. Overall, about 6,000 locations are passed within the RISE and CVEC outreach areas, according to the presentation. Wood explained to the board challenges and hiccups that arise, including scheduling major road crossings, awaiting permitting in national forest areas and power crews being pulled off to other areas as part of storm responses. Were not making excuses, weve done pretty well, Wood said. Weve got 23,000 people connected. Were getting 200 [connections] a week. Wood said if residents are not served by broadband and live in Fireflys service area, there is push for another round of Virginia Telecommunications Initiative grant applications in December for more funding. If there are any in Amherst County we would love to include them, Wood said. If its a mile off of our build, well build a mile to one person as long as we can get a little support so we can make sure it breaks even. Melissa Gay, vice president for communications and member services for Firefly, said residents can get updates at any time at www.fireflyva.com. I want to urge the residents of Amherst County to register for Firefly, Gay said. We get the question all the time: How can I get my Firefly? How am I going to know whats going on? We want to make sure they are on the list, and we have a very big list. Gay said if interested residents pre-register with Firefly for service before Firefly crews leave their area, they have an opportunity to waive the $100 installation fee. Thats our incentive to have folks sign up while we are working in the area so we dont have to make our way back to them when weve gone to another county to start our work, Gay said. Through each step of the process we want to stay centralized. She said an invitation will be sent to Pleasant View area residents around November or December for a virtual town hall presentation on the progress so far. Firefly also will have a booth at the Amherst County Fair on Oct. 21 where anyone can stop by to sign up or learn of the offerings. Tom Martin, the boards chair, thanked Wood and Gay for the update and expressed excitement for the progress being made and forthcoming. Its kind of like Christmas, Martin said. You really, really, really cant wait for it to get here. TOKYO, Sep 28 ( News On Japan ) - While escalating energy costs have been grabbing headlines in Japan, water supply charges are rising nationwide, with some predicting a "tenfold" increase due to aging water pipes. Japan is faced with the enormous cost of replacing aging water infrastructure, estimated at over 150 billion yen over the next 40 years, while at the same time a shrinking population and water saving devices are cutting revenues. An official from Ishinomaki Regional Water Supply Corporation said the designated service life of a water pipe is 40 years although the existing pipes were laid in 1973. Since many water pipes were constructed during a period of high economic growth, they have far exceeded their designated service life. In Ishinomaki and the neighboring city of Higashi-Matsushima alone, there are approximately 600 kilometers of aging water pipes. Furthermore, water purification plants are also aging. Regional water supply corporations estimate that they will need a colossal 154.3 billion yen over the next 40 years. Apart from aging infrastructure, there is also a serious issue of declining water revenue. With a decreasing population, fewer people use water which means a reduction in sales for water service providers. Centro Latino kicked off its National Hispanic Heritage Month celebration with a breakfast event with members of the Nebraska Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, which served as an introduction to the community and cultural organizations new executive director, Walter Garcia Rodriguez. The morning featured remarks from Yesenia Peck, NHCC president, Dulce Sherman, owner of a nonprofit and small business consulting firm, and Rodriguez. And food. A lot of food. This beautiful morning I don't have the time to recognize every single person here, but I'm so glad because we have people from the community, we have from the police department, we have from the local university, we have many individuals that have their own businesses, and this is how we envision Council Bluffs, Rodriguez said. This is not just a Latino thing, this is a community thing. So we are here to make this center a new place, even for real immigrants that are coming, because we know that there are many other individuals that need our help. But not only new immigrants. We are here to serve anyone, doesnt matter their color, doesnt matter who they are, we are here to support them. Rodriguez comes to Centro Latino with years of experience working in the nonprofit sector, most recently at Omaha Bridges Out of Poverty an organization dedicated to eradicating poverty in the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area. In her remarks, Peck spoke about when she first moved to Omaha from her home country of Peru 20 years ago and the warning she received from fellow Hispanic and Latino immigrants. One of the things that I was told was to avoid Council Bluffs, Peck said. It was a racist city. Hispanics werent welcome. So as a newcomer, I was scared, I was afraid and it was just across the bridge. So I did as they told me. For a few years, I would occasionally see parts of Council Bluffs from the Nebraska side of the river. The reputation and the stereotypes prevailed. Then, Peck said, she met the man who would become her husband, and he was not only a Council Bluffs native, he was a 1993 state wrestling champion from Thomas Jefferson High School. As I learned about this city, I finally gave it a chance, and I realized I was wrong about the negativity and the problems in Council Bluffs, Iowa, Peck said. I think this revelation is important today to share with all of you about my experience as an immigrant as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month Latinos and immigrants are also the subject of so many stereotypes. We all know it. We have a reputation of being undocumented or illegal, sometimes even the misconceptions meant to be positive are cliche and simply wrong. Peck said that taking the time to get to know one another will help erase many of the stereotypes and misconceptions we might have. Becoming familiar with your Hispanic and Latino neighbors can help to create a more integrated community, Peck said. As we grow and become unified, perhaps well learn that our neighbors, our community members, were as nervous to talk to you as you were to talk to them. Maybe you learn that they immigrated through a legal process or are working on normalizing their papers. What you will certainly find are regular people with regular problems a lot like yours, and a desire to do the best we can for ourselves and our families. Peck pointed out that many immigrants who live and work in the United States are unable to take advantage of the benefits that many Americans take for granted like welfare and Medicaid, even though they pay into those programs through federal and state income taxes. According to a 2019 New American Economy report, immigrants account for nearly 14% of the U.S. population and $1.3 trillion in spending power. Dulce Sherman, who took on the role of interim director of Centro Latino before Rodriguez was hired, shared her own immigrant story, which was actually her parents story. Sherman was born in the U.S. after her parents immigrated from Mexico. I am an example of the dream, of hope, she said. Im first born generation here in the United States. My first language was Spanish My mom did not speak English, she did not learn how to drive, she didnt even finish school. My dad was a minister and was a plant worker, and times were tough with a family of eight. There were six children and we lived in a two-bedroom home that soon became a one-bedroom home because it became damaged, and we all all the siblings slept in a hideaway bed, kind of like sardines. Shermans parents wanted what most parents want for their kids, a more prosperous future, and their hope for a better life was not lost on Sherman. My mom and dad were always about hope, Sherman said. We always knew that our future was going to get better. And I think thats one of the things that we as Latinos we hold on to hope we represent hope for the future, and we always believe that things are going to get better. Centro Latino represents that hope for members of the Hispanic and Latino communities in and around Council Bluffs, Sherman said. The Centro connects Latinos to resources and programming services such as workforce development, adult education, financial literacy, immigration and naturalization, family support, civic engagement, leadership and cultural education, Sherman said. We value and welcome working together with (the larger community) as our community partners. When you have meetings, I want you to look around the table and I want you to see whos sitting at your table. Invite Latinos to your table. Give us a voice. It is vital to economic growth, and because of the continued change in demographics that this community continue to plan, support and create a sense of belonging for Latino, and for all communities, because were all in this together. To learn more about the Hispanic and Latino communities in Council Bluffs, Centro Latino is hosting a Latino Festival on Saturday, Sept. 30, in Bayliss Park. From noon to 6 p.m., there will be food, live music, games for children, and raffles, as well as representatives from the local Guatemalan and Mexican consulates. With over 200 animals to care for each and every day, its no surprise that MHS goes through plenty of supplies while dogs, cats and small critters await their forever homes. From animal care and enrichment items to office supplies, staff, volunteers and animals are always grateful for product donations. Midlands Humane Society partners with the Hills Food, Shelter, Love Program, which provides affordable pet food to shelter partners throughout North America. Thanks to this partnership, we are also able to offer adopters the chance to participate in the program and bring home a small bag of food to get their new pet started at home. Due to this, we do not feed MHS pets donated food as we want to limit any potential stomach upset from feeding different brands and formulas. If bags of food in original packaging are donated, MHS places them on our food pantry for those in our community needing support. However, we always need yummy treats for dogs and cats. We utilize typical treats like Milk-Bones as well as training treats, whipped cream, Vienna sausages, canned chicken and, of course, peanut butter (no xylitol). These treats are used for several reasons including medical evaluations, enrichment, behavior training, and even to help get some adorable adoption photos. Doing a final deep clean of your home before settling in for the colder weather? MHS is always in need of blankets, towels and wash cloths. However, sheets, pillows, pillowcases and heated blankets are not something MHS is able to utilize, so consider donating them elsewhere before making the trip! Used dog beds are allowed if they are able to be easily and thoroughly cleaned in an industrial washing machine. MHS can always use reams of paper, paper towels, toilet paper and contractor trash bags. Dont forget the everyday items that we routinely need like non-clumping cat litter (that we use hundreds of pounds of each week) and dog collars and slip/clip leashes! Consider checking out our Chewy and Amazon wish lists which you can find on the Midlands Humane Society website at midlandshumanesociety.org. MHS is extremely grateful for the generosity shown by our community while we care for these companion animals deserving of a loving home and a second chance at life! MHS Pets of the Week brought to you by Summit Medical Staffing: Bart & Homer are young male rats who are the best of friends and are looking for a home together. We know they are not your typical pets, but rats make amazing companions as they are intelligent, affectionate and relatively clean unlike their typical stereotype. Scout is a 9.5-year-old neutered male Beagle who is ready to spend his golden years in a low key home where he can be spoiled. He still has enough energy to enjoy playing outside and going for walks, but also likes to take nice cozy naps. Scout will do best in a home where he is the only doggy companion and where he doesnt get woken up from his beauty sleep by kids. Mai Tai s a 1-year-old spayed female Boxer who is as sweet as can be. She came to MHS as a stray, so we are unsure of her previous living situation, but she seems to be a very happy go lucky girl. She is full of energy, which manifests itself in her hopping around like a bunny. She will need plenty of exercise to keep her busy so she will be a great companion for an active family. Aria is a 10-month-old spayed female Border Collie mix who cant wait to be your new BFF! She is full of personality and energy and is ready to soak up all the training possible from her new family. Aria cant wait to go on all your adventures and will make a great exercise buddy. Stop in to MHS on weekdays from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Check out our available pets by visiting our website at midlandshumanesociety.org/adopt. 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 Mauritania has extended for six months the Memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Egyptian Arab Contractor company to build a tramway in capital Nouakchott, local media report. The extension was enacted by Minister of Equipment and Transport Mohamed Ali O. Sidi Mohamed, who said the move is meant to enable the company to finalize the feasibility study for the project and the measures required for its completion, which will take three years. The Mauritanian Government and the Egyptian company signed in 2022 a deal for the construction of a tramway in capital Nouakchott. The train, the first in the city, will run on two lines 22.5 km long each, connecting the capitals downtown to districts on the outskirts. The project will help preserve the environment by reducing gas emissions and global warming, contribute to the smooth flow of people, and strengthen Mauritanias tourism sector. Ali Mohamed also indicated that the Cairo-headquartered company has presented a preliminary study for a 42 km tramway line in Nouakchott and two lines with a 1.200 km interchange section. Arab Contractor is one of the oldest construction companies in the Middle East. It completed projects in several countries in the region. Benin denied Wednesday September 27 a report by a Nigerien media that a military base in the north of the West African country is under construction to house French troops leaving Niger. In a statement, Wilfried Leandre Houngbedji, the spokesperson for the President Patrice Talons administration rubbished the information that a military base is being built near the northern town of Kandi to house the French troops departing from Niger. Id like to make it clear that, while Ive asserted in due course that we benefit from the support of French, Belgian and American instructors in particular, no French military base is under construction in our country, and certainly not in the Alibori department, Houngbedji underscored. Moreover, it is well known that the French and Belgian instructors in question left more than six months after completing their mission. To put it plainly, its all the ravings of sensation-seekers who, without any investigation, allow themselves to make unfounded assertions, he stressed. French President announced last week the imminent pullout of some 1,500 soldiers stationed in Niger, Benins neighbor. The withdrawal has been a pressing demand of current authorities of Niger where a junta seized power on July 26 after deposing west-backed leader Mohamed Bazoum. Benin has been accused by Niger for proposing to be the entry point of French forces in the backdrop of a potential military intervention by the regional bloc, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The ECOWAS condemned the coup and in August 2023 said it has prepared a standby force to intervene in a move to restore Bazoum. It is not the first reports of an alleged military base being built in Benin are emerging. In July, Frances envoy Marc Vizy denied a military presence in Benin to help curtail terrorism activities in the north. The diplomat added that France and the West African country have military cooperation in the fight against terrorism. The European country, in line with the cooperation, sends instructors, the ambassador said. Benin since November 2021 has been grappling with dozens of terror attacks. The army has lost 22 soldiers and 42 reported wounded according to Chief of Staff Abou Issa. At least 52 alleged terrorists have been killed while 72 have been arrested. Jamaa Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin, a terrorist group affiliated to al Qaeda, claimed Wednesday September 27 responsibility for a car bomb attack against a military base of the Malian army near the ancient city of Timbuktu, a theater of ongoing fighting between the forces and the militants. The attack took place 35km South-West of the city, according to press reports. The terror group in a statement said it has seized the base after fierce fighting with Malian forces which arrived in the city on foot. The Malian army confirmed the attack and the fighting that it described as complex. The terror group did not elaborate whether there were casualties. The Malian army did not confirm losing the base either. The Malian army launched an offensive in August 2023 to flash out Tuareg rebels of the Coordination of Azawad Movements (CMA), who control the region around the city. Last week both sides clashed. The rebels claimed taking soldiers hostage and seizing two army bases in Lere city while the army announced the loss of five soldiers and an aircraft and the killing of seven rebels as well as the destruction of eight vehicles belonging to the militants. Photo: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images As a wise man once said, You come at the king, you best not miss. Unfortunately for Chris Christie, he failed to take in this important lesson from The Wire. During Wednesday nights debate, he bungled his shot at Donald Trump, the king of stupid-yet-searing nicknames, by attempting to label him Donald Duck. Now Christie is adding to his humiliation by doubling down on the cringey moniker and pretending the Disney-inspired insult has Trump running scared. Christies entire dubious GOP primary strategy revolves around being the one candidate willing to forcefully take on Trump, so its no surprise that he came to the debate in Simi Valley, California, with a canned line about the former president. But no one was expecting him to call out Trump for refusing to show up to the GOP debates with a joke this weak: Donald, I know youre watching. You cant help yourself Youre not here tonight because youre afraid of being on this stage and defending your record. Youre ducking these things. And let me tell you whats going to happen. You keep doing that, no one up heres gonna keep calling you Donald Trump anymore; were gonna call you Donald DUCK. Oh lord, we've reached new levels of cringe now. Chris Christie: "If you keep doing that, no one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore. They will call you Donald Duck." pic.twitter.com/1uE3eustR2 Justin Baragona (@justinbaragona) September 28, 2023 The line wasnt received well in the room or online, and Trump quickly put the final nail in the Donald Duck coffin, quipping to Fox News Digital shortly after the debate, Anybody that would come up with that nickname shouldnt be running for president. Christie could have cut his losses and moved on. Instead, he kept trying to make Donald Duck happen. After the debate, he tweeted out video of the line (minus the awkward response from the crowd) and added the variation keep duckin: Hey Donald Duck. We could have talked about this if you had the guts to show up. Keep duckin. pic.twitter.com/dF3eTAaQaE Chris Christie (@GovChristie) September 28, 2023 Then Christie kicked off a Thursday-morning appearance on Fox News by scoffing at Trumps nicknaming track record despite his coining the effective schoolyard jabs Low-Energy Jeb, Lyin Ted, and Liddle Marco and asserting, I live in his head. The idea that Christie who once bragged that Trump forced him to eat meat loaf at the White House is terrorizing the 2024 GOP front-runner is laughable. Also ridiculous: Christie thinking this response was worth promoting on social media: I'm clearly living in @realDonaldTrump's head rent free. He spent most of last night attacking me, when he should have been on that stage defending his record. pic.twitter.com/VChaUTFSsB Chris Christie (@GovChristie) September 28, 2023 Somehow, this is even more embarrassing than when Christie was beefing with Trump over whether the former president really called him fat. Photo: Yuri Gripas/POOL/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Back in July, we learned that Joe Bidens dog, Commander, had taken up a new hobby: rampantly biting humans. Email correspondence obtained by the conservative group Judicial Watch using the Freedom of Information Act revealed that the 2-year-old German shepherd had been involved in at least ten reported biting incidents since arriving at the White House in late 2021, including biting one Secret Service member so badly that they were sent to the hospital. At the time, I assumed Commanders days in the White House were numbered. Months earlier, Commanders predecessor, Major, had been rehomed with the Bidens family friends after biting a mere two people. But I lost track of the story as I was distracted by more consequential political news. (Also, I only care about First Cat Willow Biden, who is, by all accounts, a perfect angel.) So I was shocked to learn this week that Commander Biden still lives in the White House and is still on a biting spree. A member of the Secret Service was bitten on Monday evening, marking the 11th Commander-related injury at the White House and Bidens Delaware home. Yesterday around 8 p.m., a Secret Service Uniformed Division police officer came in contact with a First Family pet and was bitten, Steven Kopek, a Secret Service spokesman, said on Tuesday. The officer was treated by medical personnel on complex. So what happens now? Apparently, nothing! Kopek said the officer is doing well, but the White House shared no further details on the incident. According to the New York Times, the response from First Lady Jill Bidens team was basically Like we said, Commander is going through a lot right now: aides to Jill Biden, the first lady, have said that the episodes are the result of the stress the dogs feel from being at the White House. As weve noted before, the White House can be a stressful environment for family pets, and the first family continues to work on ways to help Commander handle the often unpredictable nature of the White House grounds, said Elizabeth Alexander, the communications director for Dr. Biden. Ms. Alexander said that the president and first lady are incredibly grateful to the Secret Service and executive residence staff for all they do to keep them, their family and the country safe. I understand that the Bidens love Commander and he may be a good dog thrust into a bad situation. But maybe a good way to show your gratitude to the Secret Service is to remove the threat of random canine attacks in the workplace? When your dog bites someone, shrugging and saying, Yeah, he does that sometimes, isnt an acceptable answer, even if youre the president. Photo: Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images Every impeachment begets a new cast of characters on the national political stage, and few people involved in the 2019 investigation of President Donald Trump emerged more clearly than Dan Goldman, the veteran federal prosecutor who served as House Democrats lead counsel. Four years later, hes a congressman representing lower Manhattan and parts of Brooklyn who sits on the Republican-controlled Oversight Committee leading impeachment hearings into President Joe Biden and his son Hunters international business dealings. Bidens White House and its allies have consistently dismissed the coming hearings as a political stunt designed to mollify Trump and House Speaker Kevin McCarthys right-wing critics and, now, to distract from the looming government shutdown. (Impeachment hearing is now often printed with scare quotes in their communications.) Goldman, who joined Congress in January on the strength of his anti-Trump fame, has become an important part of the Democrats effort to discredit the entire endeavor and recently participated in a closed-door interview of a former Hunter Biden business partner, which the congressman argued exposed the lack of direct connection between the president and any of Hunters business. I spoke with Goldman on the eve of the first impeachment hearing, in which he is likely to once again play a central role. Lets start with the shape of the impeachment process itself. Were you surprised that Speaker McCarthy announced an impeachment inquiry without a House vote on it? I was, because he promised that he would not move forward with a vote and then 11 days later did just that. Its clear he did that because he knew that he didnt have enough votes to move forward with an impeachment inquiry, because there are so many Republicans who have publicly called into question this investigation and noted that there is no evidence linking Joe Biden to any intentional wrongdoing or misconduct on behalf of or in coordination with his son Hunter or anyone else. And yet investigating is one of the duties of Congress, so absent a vote to formalize the process, do you see an actual difference between a normal investigation and this one? Theres no difference between what theyve been doing for nine months and what they are trying to do now other than giving it a different name. They dont have any more authority, as the Trump administration argued in 2019, by announcing an impeachment inquiry. But its not a question of whether or not this should be investigated. Its the fact that it has already been investigated for nine months. They have spoken to a number of witnesses. They have gathered more than 12,000 pages of bank records. They have reviewed 2,000 pages of suspicious activity reports. Theyve gotten documents from the FBI. Theyve gotten a tremendous amount of cooperation from the administration, and theres no evidence linking anything, any wrongdoing, to Joe Biden. So that begs the question: Why would you then turn an investigation that has yielded no evidence of wrongdoing against the president into an impeachment inquiry of the president? And the clear-cut reason the only reason is because Donald Trump wants them to, just like he wanted President Zelenskyy to do the same investigation back in 2019. Zelenskyy showed quite a backbone by resisting the shakedown of Donald Trump, but unfortunately the House Republicans do not have the same backbone, and theyre more than happy to do the political bidding of Donald Trump. As you just alluded to, theres real, substantive overlap between these probes and 2019s impeachment, which centered on Trumps pursuit of a conspiracy theory that Vice-President Biden pressured Ukraine to fire its top prosecutor, Victor Shokin, to spare Hunters business partner, Burisma. As you prepare, are you expecting to go over much of the same material in public once the hearings begin? Well, unfortunately these House Republicans seem to be the only people on earth who do not accept the fact that the Shokin-Giuliani-Trump conspiracy about Burisma has been thoroughly debunked, and it has been proven to be outright false. The reality is that the allegations that the Republicans are making have been debunked by numerous expert witnesses in the first impeachment, by a bipartisan Senate report; the Senate Republicans had testimony that there was no accuracy to those allegations. And its even been debunked by the head of Burisma himself, as well as the former president of Ukraine, who both hired and then orchestrated the firing of Shokin and said that nothing out of his mouth is true. It shows Joe Bidens innocence, because the only official action that he has ever taken that is in connection to Hunter Bidens business interests was bad for Hunter Bidens business interests, and that was corroborated by their new star witness, Devon Archer, who was also on the Burisma board, who said that it was Burismas view that Shokin was under control. So this is just bald-faced lies that they are promoting with absolutely no credible evidence to support it. And if theyre going to base an impeachment investigation on these outright lies, they really run the risk of having this backfire significantly. Still, theres a real case to be made that the president didnt do enough to step in the way of his sons international business dealings. Do you think he didnt do enough to try and stop his son? Thats not what theyre alleging. Thats not an impeachable offense. And thats not what this is based on. What we do know, from witness testimony, is that President Joe Biden had nothing to do with Hunter Bidens business interests, received no financial benefits from his business interests, took no official action other than the Burisma action, related to Hunter Bidens business interests. And never even discussed his business with Hunter, according to the only witness they have who says anything about the conversations that Joe Biden had with business associates of Hunter Biden. So they keep moving the goalposts here and trying to manufacture, through innuendo, some wrongdoing. But theres no high crime and misdemeanor, theres no low crime and misdemeanor. There isnt any crime and misdemeanor that they are alleging that they can support here. Do you have any reason to believe anyone on the Republican side of this investigation has done any work to study how you carried out the 2019 process? Have you yet seen evidence of lessons learned or investigative avenues followed? I think the best gloss on this investigation would be that they have paid no attention to the first impeachment investigation. The worst gloss is what I suspect to be true, which is they know full well that what they are alleging is patently false, and they dont care, and theyre pushing forward with it anyway either because Donald Trump wants them to do it, or because they want to show their fealty to Donald Trump and do his political bidding. But if they did pay attention to the first impeachment, they would know not only that their allegations are false, but also that we only had hearings with fact witnesses. Its very telling that the first hearing as part of this inquiry is a hearing with no fact witnesses. And thats important because you will recall that our Intelligence Committee investigation was purely fact-finding. When it got to the Judiciary Committee, they had a legal hearing about impeachment. But this is still in the Oversight hearing, which is about fact. The Oversight Committee is about fact-finding. And yet theyre having some, yknow, legalistic hearing without fact witnesses as their very first hearing. Some House Republicans have been pretty openly nervous about pursuing this path because of the possible political ramifications. Have you talked to any of them about the wisdom of this impeachment process especially some of your colleagues in New York who are unsure how this will end up for them? Look, I think when you combine the fact that the Republicans are trying to shut down the government and at the same time they are initiating a bogus impeachment inquiry of President Biden, you are going to piss off a lot of Americans, and that includes a lot of Americans in Biden districts that have Republican congressmen, several of which are in New York. It is a very dangerous road to go down that is clearly being directed by the puppeteer at Mar-a-Lago who has both demanded that the Republicans shut down the government and demanded that there be an impeachment investigation of Joe Biden. And sadly Marjorie Taylor Greene and the extreme MAGA right, who operate according to the whims of Donald Trump, are doing his bidding. And so we are wasting our time on a sham impeachment while Republicans take us down a terrible pathway toward a shutdown that will have a significant impact on millions of Americans. So where do you see this all ending? Not the best-case scenario. What do you think is actually going to happen here? [Pause] Thats a good question, actually. I havent really thought of that. I dont think they will develop any sufficient evidence to support their conclusions. They have, of course, put their conclusions first and are now trying to fill that in with evidence, which is the inverse of how actual investigations are done, and is the inverse of how we did the 2019 impeachment investigation. So then the question just becomes whether the Republicans who have expressed their misgivings and questions about this impeachment inquiry are going to cave to the far-right once again and are willing to support an impeachment vote of President Biden based on lies. That I cannot answer. This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Photo: Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images The impeachment inquiry into Joe Biden was already a disappointment before it started on Thursday. In prepared testimony, two of the three witnesses called by Republicans explicitly said there was not enough evidence to warrant removing President Joe Biden from office. This included Jonathan Turley, the law professor and Fox News contributor, who said, I do not believe that the evidence currently meets the standard of a high crime and misdemeanor needed for an article of impeachment. George Washington University law professor and Republican witness Jonathan Turley says that if a vote to impeach President Joe Biden happened today, he would vote "no" due to lack of evidence: "At the moment, these are just allegations." pic.twitter.com/CdC553i2Am CSPAN (@cspan) September 28, 2023 Republican Lauren Boebert asked Turley, Where does selling access to an executive office fall in terms of what justifies an impeachment inquiry and what is deemed an impeachable offense? and got an extended legal discussion, which included multiple references to the U.S. code. I shouldnt have asked Turley a question, she told a staffer, disappointed, as she got up to leave the hearing room. He was a crappy witness. The hearing, which was an effort to lay out the Republican case for connecting Biden with his son Hunters sleazy overseas business dealings, started with some promise. The hearing room overflowed with reporters and the full array of perennial hearing attendees. The left-wing Congressional Integrity Project sent observers one in a mask wearing T-shirts emblazoned with the face of committee chair James Comer and the slogan no evidence written above it. Only a few chairs down sat the mother of Ashli Babbitt, the insurrectionist shot dead by Capitol Police on January 6 while trying to break into the House chamber, and conservative media personality Tom Fitton. Other lowlights included one member referring to a shitter in a hearing, while another repeatedly used the word bullshit. This was also likely the first time in the nearly 250-year history of the United States that a member of Congress made a point of order to ask the chair to instruct another member not to introduce pornography today. After all, the hearing was already pushing the limits by making C-SPAN PG-13; to make it X-rated would have been a step too far. The hearing began in chaos when the top Democrat on the committee, Jamie Raskin, almost immediately made a motion that the committee subpoena Rudy Giuliani and Lev Parnas, the former New York mayors associate in the 2019 effort to gather dirt on Biden in Ukraine. While almost all the committees Democratic members were present, most of the Republicans were not. This meant that the vote dragged on and on as Republicans scrambled to get everyone to show up to vote it down. In order to eat up time during the wait, members who had already voted kept on asking if they were recorded as voting in order to avoid the awkward silence as things dragged on. Few Republicans were in the hearing room for the duration. Instead, they wandered in and out, bringing coffee and energy drinks to stay alert as the hours ticked by. The Democratic seats were mostly occupied for the first half of the proceedings, and Raskin appeared to grin throughout. In contrast, Comer sat mostly grim-faced and spent time peering at his iPhone when not expressing exasperation at Democrat Dan Goldman for repeatedly asking for unanimous consent for the same deposition from one of Hunter Bidens business partners to be introduced into evidence again and again. By the end of the hearing, in a near empty room, a visibly peeved Comer was agreeing to this yet again, for the seventh time without objection, as Goldman continued to use the deposition to play defense for Biden. Perhaps the hearings quintessential moment came when Democrat Jared Moskowitz used his five minutes to deliver a Borscht Beltstyle comedy monologue that repeatedly provoked guffaws of laughter from the Democratic side of the hearing room and, at one point, forced Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to cover her mouth because of how much she laughing. Moskowitz began his remarks by saying of the hearing, As a former director of emergency management, I know a disaster when I see one, and proceeded with an array of props and charts. Afterward, Republican Paul Gosar who earlier this week gained attention by calling for the execution of Mark Milley, whom he described as sodomy promoting expressed his disappointment in the rhetoric employed by Moskowitz, which he described as more appropriate for Saturday Night Live. All throughout the hearing, the specter of a likely government shutdown loomed over the proceedings. As they spoke in turn, every Democrat sat next to an iPad, propped up for the television audience, on which the seconds ticked down toward a shutdown. Repeatedly, Democrats raised this pending shutdown to argue that Republicans were simply using the hearing as a distraction from Speaker Kevin McCarthys repeated struggles to manage his deeply divided caucus. But based on the emptiness of the room and the banality of the hearing, it just wasnt much of a distraction. Sign Up for the Intelligencer Newsletter Daily news about the politics, business, and technology shaping our world. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Vox Media, LLC Terms and Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us. Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., speaks with reporters after the Senate Democrats weekly lunch in the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. Photo: Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Imag In the wake of Senator Robert Menendezs recent indictment on federal bribery charges, many of his Democratic colleagues in Congress have called on him to resign, including some of the most senior members of the caucus. But Senator John Fetterman has stood out from the pack. After news first broke that Menendez had been indicted by federal prosecutors, Fetterman was the first senator to speak out. Hes entitled to the presumption of innocence, but he cannot continue to wield influence over national policy, especially given the serious and specific nature of the allegations. I hope he chooses an honorable exit and focuses on his trial, he tweeted Saturday, just one day after the charges were unveiled. Fetterman noted that more of his fellow senators spoke out about a recent change in the Senate dress code than about accusations that one of their own received gold bars in exchange for political favors. (Fetterman, a former lieutenant governor who is frequently spotted wearing a sweatshirt and shorts in the halls of the U.S. Capitol, was at the center of the Senate dress-code debate.) For two days, the freshman senator was the lone member of the chamber to comment on Menendezs legal woes. A cascade of calls to resign began on Monday with Ohios Sherrod Brown, and as of Thursday, more than half of the Democratic senators have called for Menendez to quit. Their Republican counterparts have notably abstained from doing so. But while most Democratic senators issued statements and left it at that, Fetterman has continued to call out Menendez, who has brushed off calls for him to step down and has vowed to fight the charges. The Messenger reported that the Pennsylvania senator intends to return $5,000 in donations made by a Menendez PAC to his 2022 Senate campaign. When it was reported that Menendez intended to speak before the Democratic Senate caucus on Thursday, Fetterman indicated in a statement released the morning of that he was not interested. Unless Senator Menendez is coming today to resign, I am not interested in hearing his explanation for gold bars stashed in a mattress. Were past the point of his tough talk and defiance, given the scope and scale of his alleged corruption, he wrote. As expected, Fetterman didnt attend the caucus meeting. But following the closed-door gathering, the Pennsylvania senator indicated that he would support a resolution to expel Menendez if it came to that, according to Politico. Kari Lake can see election-stealing conspiracies for miles. Photo: Mario Tama/Getty Images Two of the most colorful personalities in American politics will face off next year in Arizona as former Republican gubernatorial nominee Kari Lake is set to announce a challenge to incumbent independent (and former Democrat) Kyrsten Sinema at an October 10 rally. According to The Wall Street Journal, which got the scoop on this development, Lake is jumping into the Senate race after her idol Donald Trump nudged fellow MAGA devotee and 2022 Senate candidate Blake Masters to give the contest a pass: Blake Masters, who lost his bid to unseat Sen. Mark Kelly (D., Ariz.) last cycle, had been moving forward with a run, the Journal reported. However, he put those plans on hold after Trump called him and walked through Lakes strengths in a GOP primary, according to people familiar with the call. The people said he still hasnt officially ruled out getting in the race. Masters didnt respond to repeated requests for comment. Assuming Masters does stay out, Lake will be the Republican front-runner, though not without a challenge from previously announced candidate Mark Lamb, the gun-toting Pinal County sheriff who is also a big Trump fan. But it will be hard for Lamb or anyone else to out-MAGA Lake, a former local news anchor with a lot of media chops to offset her incandescent extremism. She is not only an outspoken supporter of the former presidents 2020 stolen-election fables but has adamantly denied her own 2020 defeat by Democrat Katie Hobbs. Lakes candidacy and the likelihood of an extremist extravaganza of a Republican primary are good news for Sinema, who hasnt officially announced a reelection bid but has been planning a run as an independent (shes not considered viable in a Democratic primary, even though she still caucuses with Democrats in Washington). Sinema needs a lot of Republican votes to put together a plurality in the expected three-way race, and Lake is sufficiently polarizing to make that possible. Meanwhile, despite the presumed media focus on the Lake-Sinema rivalry of eccentrics, the likely Democratic nominee, Congressman Ruben Gallego, remains the betting favorite, as early polls have confirmed. Sinema will undoubtedly question Gallegos electability in an effort to hang on to queasy Democrats who may be unhappy with the incumbent but are horrified by the prospect of Senator Lake, and Lake has made her strategy clear by calling Gallego the AOC of Arizona. Add in an expected presidential rematch between Trump and Biden, who won the state by a whisper in 2020, and the Senate race could become immensely unpredictable. The debates should be must-see TV. Perhaps Sinema will show up wearing her F*** Off ring to display her combativeness. Photo-Illustration: Intelligencer; Photos Getty Images/Dmitriy Viktorov The second GOP debate between the top 2024 Republican presidential candidates who arent named Donald Trump was a bit of a mess. There werent as many contenders as at the first debate last month: Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, Nikki Haley, Mike Pence, Tim Scott, Chris Christie, and Doug Burgum all met the RNCs stricter threshold for entry this time (Asa Hutchinson did not) and many of them tried to get the most speaking time often simultaneously. The two-hour showdown was moderated by Fox Business and Univision at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California. Trump, the current front-runner, once again kept his distance and delivered some counterprogramming at a nonunion rally in Michigan. Below is a reverse-chronological collection of some of the most memorable moments, as well as real-time analysis from Intelligencers team of writers and editors. This is a developing story. Photo: AFP via Getty Images Rather than debate the Republican candidates polling in the single digits on Wednesday night, Donald Trump held a rally at the Drake Enterprises truck-parts manufacturing plant outside Detroit. According to the former president, he was there to support United Auto Workers members striking for increased wages and benefits even though he spoke at the managements request at a nonunion shop. Over an hour or so, Trump talked trash about Joe Biden and the UAWs leadership while making very few mentions of the purported competition in the GOP primary. Below are some of the most striking moments from his Wednesday night speech. Trump says that none of the other Republican candidates will be his vice-presidential nominee Aside from his refusal to debate, Trump has already made it clear in his messaging that he has pivoted from primary mode to running in a general election. This was quite clear when he hardly mentioned the GOP field except to say that they were all running for a job in his administration. Theyll do anything, he said. Secretary of something. They even say VP, I dont know. Has anybody seen any VP in the group? I dont think so. Trump announces he will not choose anyone currently running for President as his running mate. pic.twitter.com/EvXW8kTg6U Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) September 28, 2023 Trump to striking UAW members: I dont care what you get Throughout the rally, Trump tried to frame himself as the pro-union candidate for killing the Trans-Pacific Partnership that had the potential to take auto-manufacturing jobs abroad. But the candidate who has railed against union protections for years wasnt exactly supportive of the UAWs demands to increase wages and improve benefits. Prior to his speech, he did not respond to a reporters questions about whether or not he backed the 40 percent raise the UAW is demanding. At one point during a long diatribe against electric vehicles, he said, I dont care what you get in the next two weeks, or three weeks, or five weeks, referring to the length of the strike. (According to Trump, it wouldnt matter due to the Biden administrations support of electric vehicles and the potential for the growing industry to undercut union jobs.) I dont think youre picketing for the right thing, he added. Trump dismisses striking workers: I dont think youre picketing for the right thing pic.twitter.com/Q4fAZUrE0A Biden-Harris HQ (@BidenHQ) September 28, 2023 They always endorse a Democrat, its almost like an automatic reflex After saying that he did not care about the unions demands, Trump then lobbied its president, Shawn Fain, to endorse him in the 2024 election. He seemed frustrated that Democrats always win the UAWs endorsement over the party that undercuts unions as a policy. Its almost like an automatic reflex, he said. Trumps speech at the nonunion plant is probably not going to help his chances here. I find the pathetic irony that the former president is going to hold a rally for union members at a nonunion business, Fain said of Trump before the rally. His track record speaks for itself. In 2008 during the Great Recession, he blamed UAW members. He blamed our contracts for everything that was wrong with these companies. Thats a complete lie. As for the Autoworkers for Trump signs in the audience, reporters at the rally found that Trump campaign staffers were passing them out to non-union workers. Trump talks trash about clean energy at large The former president talked a lot about how electric vehicles are often built abroad, even as the Biden administration implements policies to block the importation of EV chargers and batteries from China. In a more Trumpian tone, he talked about the panic that settles in after Americans buy an electric car and worry over their (substantial) driving range. Returning to one of his classic complaints, he also went off about wind turbines, claiming that they dont work. (Spoiler: They work.) He also claimed that electric motors on boats cant work because they would electrocute boaters, which would be news to the outboard-motor industry. Trump says electric motors in boats wont work because if it sinks everyone will get electrocuted. pic.twitter.com/02seLyAny6 Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) September 28, 2023 Trump talks a lot of trash about Joe Biden Trump claimed that Joe Biden had only visited the UAW picket line in Michigan the day before because Trump was speaking in Michigan. Biden, who sounded fairly energetic at the strike, didnt know where he was, according to Trump. I dont think he actually knows what hes doing, Trump said of Bidens demeanor in general. He doesnt know, Trump said. Lets not blame him. Later, Trump accused Biden of corruption, claiming that if his home was raided it would have made Menendez look like a baby. Trump said that he wasnt sure if Biden is going to make it to the starting gate of the 2024 election. In an unusual line of attack, he said that crooked Joe Biden is back like a wretched old vulture trying to finish off his prey. I could have had the nicest, softest life The former president did not get into specifics about the many indictments he is facing for his alleged acts of conspiring to overturn the election, violating the Espionage Act, and falsifying business records. But he did acknowledge that they were weighing on him. I couldve had the nicest, softest life, Trump said. Instead, I have to beat these lunatics up all day long. Every day. Lunatics! I have never heard of the word indictment, now I get indicted every three days. Trump accidentally brags about the massive financial crash during his administration The former president cited his record in office keeping prices down as a way to prove he was the right candidate for working-class voters in 2024. At one point, he boasted that the last time gas prices were under $2 was under his watch. Unfortunately, he forgot that this occurred in April 2020 when the economy tanked in the second month of the pandemic and over 20 million Americans lost their jobs. Trump invents a new word In his nod to the culture-war front against transgender rights, Trump went on about child mutilization. Most likely, he was referring to rare gender-reassignment surgeries for teenagers. Almost certainly, he meant mutilation. Sign Up for the Intelligencer Newsletter Daily news about the politics, business, and technology shaping our world. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Vox Media, LLC Terms and Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us. Children, children! Behave yourselves or go stand in the corner! Photo: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images While following with growing dismay the disastrous second Republican presidential candidate debate, I recalled a Georgia Senate debate nearly a half-century ago in which several candidates on the crowded stage began comments with the line: The real question is until one of them said, The real question is whether anyone is still watching. The same question could have been asked last night as the inherently dubious contest between candidates chasing the absent Donald Trump at a great distance degenerated into chaos. Please, please, Republicans lets not do that again! Trump himself obviously agrees (as reported by the Daily Caller), even though the nightmare on the stage at the Reagan Library in California probably benefitted him: They have to stop the debates. Because it is just bad for the Republican Party. They are not going anywhere. There is not going to be a breakout candidate. Before we even get to the futility of the debates in separating sheep from goats, lets address the possibility that the second debate was so bad mainly because the Fox-Univision moderators totally failed to control the warring debaters. They seemed to lose their grip on the microphones from the get-go, presumably because the candidates had been heavily briefed about the need to seize time and take the initiative. They constantly talked over each other and squabbled like grade-schoolers on a poorly supervised playground. Doug Burgum ranted constantly off-camera; at first I thought his voice was that of a heckler in the audience. It was unwatchable for long stretches. But in defense of the moderators (who did try to ask challenging questions the candidates mostly refused to answer), the undisciplined conduct of the alleged debaters was an accurate reflection of the desperation they are experiencing, individually and collectively, about the state of the race. With Trump holding a massive lead both nationally and in all the early states, time is running out for anyone to make the contest competitive. Ron DeSantis has been sinking like a stone everywhere other than in Iowa, where he trails Trump by over 30 points. Vivek Ramaswamy, Tim Scott, and most recently Nikki Haley have had brief moments of buzz and momentum, only to fall back into the pack. And, of course, the front-runner is tormenting them by skipping the debates and even counterprogramming to depress viewership. These dynamics wont change so long as the nomination contest features one giant looming over a field of 90-pound weaklings. Indeed, if there was an air of desperation on the stage in Simi Valley, how bad might it be in Miami at the next scheduled debate on November 8? Short of calling it off, the RNC could significantly heighten the qualification requirements for the stage to get rid of some of the straphangers and create a more controlled event, while increasing the pressure on Trump to participate. Right now, the RNC is only requiring a 4 percent showing in two national polls or one national and one early-state poll. Thats too lax, particularly given the wildly varying quality of pollsters releasing GOP polls this year. How about a 10 percent polling threshold? Not even Burgum is wealthy enough to buy his way past that requirement with an ad blitz. And candidates like Mike Pence and Chris Christie, whose deep unpopularity among Republicans means there is no way they can win the nomination, would likely be excluded as well. Would, say, a Ron DeSantisNikki Haley debate be more useful than the ridiculous scrum we saw last night? Probably so, though thats hardly saying much. But the safer route for Republicans would be to bag debates and let the candidates make their questionable cases to early-state voters, who would then cull the field more definitively than any debates or polls could possibly do. Earlier this week, I made the case for treating the Republican contest as a real thing until voters weigh in, no matter how sure we are that Trump will ultimately prevail to win his third consecutive nomination. That doesnt mean inflicting pointless and fractious debates among bottom-feeders on unwary viewers tuning in to see what one of our two major parties has on offer. The likely surrender of the GOP to a serially indicted insurrectionist is humiliating enough. Sign Up for the Intelligencer Newsletter Daily news about the politics, business, and technology shaping our world. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Vox Media, LLC Terms and Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us. Nobody was really in the middle, though. Photo: Eric Thayer/Bloomberg via Getty Images As Joe Bidens police state locks up conservatives for the crime of fearing God (and/or mounting one teensy insurrection) while drag-queen librarians try to burn effigies of Dr. Seuss, seven of the GOPs top presidential contenders gathered at the Reagan Library in Simi Valley, California, to debate the most urgent questions facing our sorrowful republic. But the only question that really matters is this: Which candidates derived the most political benefit from Wednesday nights earned-media opportunity and which the least, as measured by the subjective impressions of one millennial pinko in New York City? Happily, I am well-positioned to answer this question. Heres who won and lost the first round of the GOPs battle for second place. . Ramaswamy came across as a slick sociopath, the kind of cartoon con man whod sell defective wheelchairs to a childrens cancer ward. The entrepreneur laced his every utterance with industrial-grade self-regard, beaming as he called for the deportation of every U.S. citizen born to an undocumented immigrant, the prohibition of trans health care, and the need for striking UAW members to reject the culture of victimhood. Pressed on how he reconciles his hardline anti-China message with his recent business dealings in that country, the entrepreneur declared that, while his firm did open a subsidiary in China like every other company, you know what I did that was different then every other company? We got the hell out of there! It is unclear whether Ramaswamy meant to suggest that he only opened a subsidiary in China so that he could later spite the CCP by closing it (the way that a bully playing keep-away might dangle a notebook above a nerds head) or else, that he could not possibly have known five years ago that China would one day be run by a communist party hostile to the United States. Regardless, the businessman made clear that hes an unprincipled phony whos willing to cozy up to authoritarian regimes to make a profit and punch down at marginalized constituencies to win applause. In other words, he demonstrated that he has all the makings of a successful Republican presidential candidate. . Going into Wednesday night, the probability of Chris Christie winning the GOP primary was about as high as that of Mike Pence launching an OnlyFans. But the former New Jersey governor changed all that in Simi Valley. The turning point in the Republican presidential race if not, in 21st-century U.S. history came when Christie addressed the elephant not in the room. Turning to the camera, Christie said, Donald, I know youre watching. You cant help yourself Youre not here tonight because youre afraid of being on this stage and defending your record. Youre ducking these things. And let me tell you whats going to happen. You keep doing that, no one up heres gonna keep calling you Donald Trump anymore, were gonna call you Donald DUCK. The ensuing laughter was so cacophonous that it shattered the vast window panes separating Reagans presidential library from the idyllic California landscape that surrounds it. Shards of glass rained down on the audience, slicing their scalps and spitting blood on their garments. Yet Christies witticism was even more cutting, and so on they cackled, some slapping knees littered with with jagged window fragments. Meanwhile, somewhere in the airspace between Michigan and Mar-a-Lago, Trump watched as his lackeys bit their tongues, vibrating from suppressed chortles. Then, the ex-president stormed off to the bathroom, where he splashed cold water on his face, stared long at his reflection, whispered, Ive wasted my life, and promptly died. . In seriousness, there were no winners in Simi Valley. Not Ron DeSantis, whose incessant nodding made him look like a bobblehead, and whose polished yet monotonous line deliveries made him sound like a try-hard student-council candidate. Not Nikki Haley, whos pre-canned dig at Ramaswamy (Honestly, every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber) only served to underscore her own lack of discernment, as the former South Carolina governor had praised the entrepreneurs combination of honesty, intellect, and foresight only months earlier. Nikki Haley has a glowing blurb on the back of Vivek Ramaswamys latest book: His combination of honesty, intellect, and foresight are exactly what we need to overcome our challenges in the years ahead. pic.twitter.com/gRO2txWu9F Carlos Lozada (@CarlosNYT) September 28, 2023 Not Mike Pence, whose only memorable line was the bizarre (and somewhat dubious) assurance that he sleeps with his wife. Mike Pence: My wife isnt a member of the teachers union, but Ive got to admit Ive been sleeping with a teacher for 38 years. Full disclosure. pic.twitter.com/Ab4xNiyM3B The Recount (@therecount) September 28, 2023 Not Doug Burgum, who looks and sounds like the president in a 1990s movie about a doomsday volcano. Not the moderators who routinely failed to prevent four different candidates from simultaneously jabbering for what seemed like minutes at a time, as though the Fox Business Channel were staging some tedious avant-garde play. And certainly not any of the people whose poor career choices or personality disorders led them to watch the whole hideous spectacle. The reason why every candidate lost is simple: Shortly before the debate began, Donald Trump announced that he would not be considering any of his primary rivals as a running mate. Given that every GOP candidate onstage Wednesday trails Trump by about as much as RFK Jr. trails Biden in the Democratic primary, the ex-presidents declaration closed off every other Republican also-rans most plausible path to the White House. But everyone lost in another, more profound sense. On Wednesday night, the Republican field collectively demonstrated (in case it wasnt already clear) that conservative politics in the United States has reached new heights of moral degeneracy and intellectual bankruptcy. The races putative moderates Nikki Haley and Tim Scott respectively floated an invasion of Mexico and end to birthright citizenship. North Dakotas governor explained that the reason why health-care costs are unusually high in the United States is that our government got involved in the health-care sector (it is unclear whether Mr. Burgum is unaware that public-sector involvement in health care is ubiquitous across developed countries or whether he is merely contemptuous of the GOP electorates intelligence). It is possible (perhaps even probable) that Joe Biden will win reelection next year. But America has a two-party system. Eventually, the GOP is going to come back to power. And no matter who has won red Americas internecine struggle by that point, it is now clear that the party will be led by a vicious reactionary of one stripe or another. And when they inevitably reclaim the White House, the entire world will lose, as well. Trump considers South Dakota governor Kristi Noem fantastic. Photo: Scott Olson/Getty Images In a sign of the fecklessness of Donald Trumps rivals for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, there are persistent rumors that many of them are actually auditioning to become his running mate. True or false, such suspicions appear to be moot now that Trump has adjudged the field as lacking in vice-presidential timber. During a speech in Detroit on Wednesday night, Trump commented, Does anybody see any VP in the group? I dont think so. Maybe this was just a tossed-off, unserious remark. But even if Trump were inclined to smile upon any of his opponents, they are all guilty of having the temerity to run against him, making them inherently untrustworthy. And Trump is likely to be even more emphatic than ever about loyalty after Mike Pence, arguably the most sycophantic veep in history, let the boss down when the time came for him to do his part in overturning the 2020 election results. Other than loyalty, what might Trump be looking for? Probably not balancing the ticket in any conventional sense. Yes, he chose Pence in 2016 as a peace offering to the religious conservatives who were worried about his heathenish background and outlook on life. These people are now at the heart of his base, and hes pretty much crushed any Republican faction hostile to him (as his domination of the GOP field going into 2024 has illustrated). Swing-state appeal? Nah. Nobody really believes veep candidates can deliver their own states; dating all the way back to the Ford administration, only one Republican veep nominee, Paul Ryan in 2012, came from a battleground state and the Romney-Ryan ticket lost Wisconsin handily. Geographical balance? That stopped mattering in either party ever since Arkansan Bill Clinton picked Al Gore from the neighboring state of Tennessee as his running mate in 1992. Trump has dropped multiple hints that he might prefer a woman as his ticket mate in order to make inroads into the votes of suburban women and perhaps reduce Republican fears that Mr. Grab em by the pussy is a bit too piggy for the White House, particularly now that a jury has ruled him liable for sexual assault. That has led to speculation about intensely MAGA women like Kristi Noem, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Kari Lake, or Marjorie Taylor Greene joining his 2024 ticket. Each of these potential ticket mates have clear liabilities for Trump. He has called Noem fantastic a great governor, but shes also been the subject of nasty tabloid reports of an affair with on-again, off-again Trump adviser Corey Lewandowski (both parties to the alleged affair are married to other people). Sanders was Trumps White House spokesperson, but she may have annoyed him by staying neutral in the 2024 nomination contest. Trump has been encouraging Lake to run for the Senate in 2024; it seems unlikely hed being doing that if he was considering her as a running mate. And MTG may simply be too nutty and erratic even for Trump. There are plenty of women in Republican politics who Trump might consider as running mates if he looks beyond the fever swamps of his most fervent supporters, ranging from Iowas biker-farmer-veteran Joni Ernst, to Tennessees culture warrior Marsha Blackburn, to up-and-comers Elise Stefanik of New York and Katie Britt of Alabama. And if it turns out he isnt insisting on a woman, a whole host of possibilities would open. A few senators might have disqualified themselves by virtue of loyalty to Trump nemesis Mitch McConnell, and a few governors are too close to Trumps 2024 rivals. But if he wins a third consecutive presidential nomination as easily as it appears he will right now, the GOP will be his oyster, and he wont feel constrained in his choices. Trump wont have to make this choice, of course, for many months. But its not an idle preoccupation to follow his thinking. For all the talk about Joe Bidens advanced age, Trump would turn 80 during a second term, making his running mate a potential president, not to mention a likely successor as leader of the GOP and the MAGA movement. Its not entirely too late for the Republican Party to change or at least slow down its current trajectory toward becoming a fully authoritarian political institution leading the U.S. toward the fate of Viktor Orbans Hungary. But thats all the more reason the supreme narcissist of Mar-a-Lago will likely choose a partner and successor who has been molded in his image. The community-building campaign National Night Out will return to Opelika this fall. The City of Opelika will host a National Night Out event on Tuesday, Oct. 3 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the downtown Courthouse Square. Multiple Opelika and Lee County agencies will attend the event to raise awareness on issues concerning public safety, health, education, youth programs, crime prevention and more. It warms my heart to see the overwhelming support of agencies, and organizations from all across Lee County coming together to help Opelika citizens. This event is at the heart of our Together Opelika campaign, Opelika Police Chief Shane Healy said. Healy said the event is truly about bringing the community together. He sees that through the agencies that will be a part of the event. Among those who will attend to connect with the residents will be first responders from the Opelika Police Department, Opelika Fire Department, the Lee County Sheriffs Office, East Alabama Emergency Medical Services, Lee County Emergency Management Agency. Please come out and see what we are really all about, Healy said. Hope to see everyone there! It is Healys hope that the combined efforts of so many agencies from across the area will help educate the community on key issues like public safety, specifically for the children of Lee County. Our National Night event is designed to help kids throughout our entire community learn how they and their families can be safer, Healy said. Everything is geared toward educating people about best safety practices and the resources available to help them get a leg up. Local organizations will also be providing resources and educational information to attendees and there will be free food and drinks along with games and activities. A committee of community partners planned this years event, led by chairman Valestine Penn and Co-Chair Sherri Reese. The event is under the U.S. National Night Out umbrella, which gives two dates to host the event. On Aug. 1, Oscar Penn and the Concerned Citizens of Opelika hosted a National Night Out event. The Oct. 3 event will be hosted by the City of Opelika. For more information on the Oct. 3 event, visit the citys website. See residents fellowship at Opelika National Night Out Chambers County School District announced on Tuesday that it will open its consolidated high school in Valley in fall 2026. The new school will be behind Valley High Schools Ram Stadium, approximately two miles form Valleys current campus. Construction for the school is estimated to be around $80 million, Superintendent Dr. Casey Chambley said during a press briefing at the Chambers County Board of Education. Chambley confirmed that there will be no early consolidation, as U.S. District Judge Keith Watkins ruled in June. Students at Lafayette High School and Valley High School will remain on the current campuses while planning and eventually construction progresses. Were excited about the future and excited about where that goes. And were excited that we finally have a decision that we can move forward with, Chambley said. When the new consolidated high school is complete, Lafayettes campus will undergo renovations and eventually be filled by the Eastside and JP Powell Magnet program thats currently housed at Eastside middle school. For Valleys campus, renovations are also planned as it will become the new middle school. The current middle school in that area is WF Burns middle school, which currently houses the Valley-side feeder pattern. Nobodys losing their job All faculty and staff at Lafayette and Valley will be retained, which will not be an easy process but one that Chambley and his team are committed to. Nobodys losing their job because of the merger or the consolidation, Chambley said. Right now with teacher shortages the way they are, we need everybody that we can get. We need all the support personnel that we can get. We have not had to relieve anybody of their duties and will not relieve anybody of their duties due to the construction of the new school and the consolidation. There is currently no announced name for the new school, but Chambley said that the process was thorough. He anticipates an announcement coming when the schematics have been completed near the end of October. When we release the first schematic designs, were probably going to release at the same time the new name. We went through a whole process with the name and the mascot and the colors, Chambley said. The kids are really gonna love the colors. Judge shares written opinion about decision The announcement comes one day after Watkins released a 65-page document sharing his written opinion about Junes ruling. One of his primary points in ruling in favor of the consolidation for the school district was the moving of all career tech courses to the new campus. Currently, all career tech courses in the Chambers County School District are currently held at Inspire Academy, which is about 25 minutes from Valley High School. According to a summary of Watkins written opinion, the consolidated school holding career tech courses will create a 50-minute decrease in daily bus travels for the 197 Black High School students. However, there will be a 25-minute increase in travel time for Lafayette students that take the bus, which is approximately half of the schools 205 students. Inspire High School will then serve as a transportation hub for Lafayette High School students that would take the bus to the new school in Valley. Instead of over 10 buses taking various amounts of students to the new school, the buses from around the Lafayette area will meet at Inspire Academy and the students will take shuttle buses to the new school. Chambley has also been reassuring alumni on both sides of the community that closing the two schools will not erase the history that the schools have. I told a group the other day that you will always be an alumni of that school that will never be taken away from you, Chambley said. Your alumni days and picnic days will never be taken away. If youre an alumni of Lafayette or Valley, youll always be that alumni. Ruling ends saga from 1970s desegregation order The ruling from Watkins ends a saga that dates back to over 50 years from a desegregation order, leading to a decision to consolidate the high schools in 1993. The decision at the time was made to follow the desegregation order and eliminate racially identifiable schools. Then the decision was put to a citizens vote to gather funding and resources for the funding, which failed and put the consolidation on hold. However, in the years that followed, the district saw a significantly decline in enrollment that reflected a decline in population of the county overall. From 1990 to 2020, the Chambers County School District enrollment decreased with LaFayette High School moving from 514 students to a current enrollment of 205 making up a 60% decrease. Likewise, Valley High Schools enrollment decreased from 856 students to a current enrollment of 617 students making up a 28% decrease. During that same period, Chambers Countys population decreased 10.6%, the City of LaFayettes population decreased by 16.3% and the City of Valleys population increased during this same 30-year period by 28.6%. This lead to a decision by the Chambers County Board of Education to reintroduce the consolidation plan. The action to close and merge schools was carried out to ensure the schools are no longer racially identifiable and ensuring they are all equal, the school board said in a statement at the time of the decision. Chambley began his term as the superintendent in 2021 and was committed to doing more than just maintain the status quo. As an elected official, he was put in a unique position of representing a constituency that did not vote, the students. We do make decisions for our parents and when our parents involved with those things, but we we have a distinct and very deliberate duty to make decisions for kids, Chambley said. The people that I represent are the students and the kids of Chambers County. According to data from the 2022-23 academic year, Valley High School had 289 Black students out of its 617 students and LaFayette High School had 173 Black students out of its enrollment of 205 students. LaFayette High Schools enrollment has declined by 61% since the 1991-92 school year while Valley High School has roughly of 75% of the districts high school students and 25% of the districts high school students are attending LaFayette High School. Additionally, plans were in place for there to be a temporary consolidation of all Lafayette students to attend Valleys campus while the new school was being built, something Watkins ultimately ruled against. He also delayed his ruling on building the school in Valley earlier this year. If we're talking about people I only hear about through ONTD. Reply Thread Link I looked up Veterans Memorial - 12888 and Coca Cola - 7779. Like what??? The Orpheum here apparently is 2700 people. Smaller people book those and they always sell out. Reply Thread Link haha I'm seeing her and my venue was just as empty when I bought tickets. I got some cheap nosebleeds, but I live in a gay city so I think the crowd will be fun whether it's big or small. Also its before halloween so I expect to see some good looks! Reply Thread Link well it sounds like you'll be able to sneak down to the barricade! Reply Parent Thread Link honestly I'm gonna try and move seats if its empty since ticketmaster charged $15+ in fees per ticket! Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Isnt this what happened to Shawn Mendes and then he cancelled the tour due to mental health and then stopped making music? Reply Thread Link really? I thought Shawn is really popular lmao Reply Parent Thread Link His tour was a mess and made no sense. I think he was struggling mentally but I dont think the tour was in good shape and that probably didnt help either. He had like 60+ US shows in arenas and a bunch in flyover states that were not selling. Im guessing he owed his label/promoter a tour but they overshot and it just wasnt a good set up Reply Parent Thread Link It also happened to Nicki Minaj Reply Parent Thread Link She deserves empty dive bars. Reply Parent Thread Link Arena Tour? Well isn't that ambitious. We can't all be Rita Ora selling out arenas and stadiums around the world [citation needed]. Reply Thread Link The whole crowd like Reply Parent Thread Link Never heard of her, but that's sad. Why'd they book arenas if they can't get enough people to fill a small local bar? Reply Thread Link I'm guessing they booked the venues a while ago and were expecting her to blow up this year because she had that #1 song with Sam Smith that they won a Grammy for but it really doesn't make sense. She has a pretty niche fanbase and her music is really not something parents are going to bring their kids to so she was never going to be able to use that demo to fill seats the way a lot of pop artists who play arenas do. Reply Parent Thread Link she has bops, but I don't think that translates to being a good performer, let alone one on this level. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link lmaoooooooooo "for some unknown reason she will be playing a lot of arenas" I'm howling Reply Thread Link I only know her from Unholy and that's mostly thanks to Sam Smith lol Reply Thread Link tbh before that I just thought she was a drag queen I hadn't heard of from RPDR.It took one of those users who shows up once in a blue moon being overly combative saying so that I realized she is a legit singer. not too legit, but legit enough. Reply Parent Thread Link lmaoooooooooo this is so funny cuz I thought she was a drag queen from RPDR too LOOOOOOOOOOL but I think I was confusing her with someone who really was on RPDR and became a singer but the name escapes me Reply Parent Thread Link Omg me too! Youre not alone! . I like her Feed The Beast album and a song here and there. Everything else is forgettable to me. Id pay $30 bucks to see her though. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Im guessing that song being a hit was one of the reasons they decided to book venues this large but like the part of the song that was all over TikTok was Sams part. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link sorry but how did she get booked for an arena tour????? Reply Thread Link ya this usually isn't on the artist. It's on the tour promoter dumb enough to try it. Reply Parent Thread Link right!!! it does not make any business sense to set her up to fail like this Reply Parent Thread Link if she dont take her ass to the house of blues and quit playing Reply Thread Link Even Charli XCX was at House of Blues... Reply Parent Thread Link did she even sell out Reply Parent Thread Link charli xcx is not bigger than house of blues outside of gay twitter and i say that as a fan Reply Parent Thread Link Charli still gets side stages at music festivals Reply Parent Thread Expand Link I went to see Florence + the Machine at the HOB when she came out with her first CD and it was amaaaazing. Can't believe the crowds she plays for now. I was lucky to go! Reply Parent Thread Link I'm remembering Adele when she started out and I think her debut got more attention than Kim but Adele started out doing the small venue shows and built from there. The new gen are ambitious lol. LOL she needs to do small venues and then build it up!!I'm remembering Adele when she started out and I think her debut got more attention than Kim but Adele started out doing the small venue shows and built from there. Reply Thread Link Not you making me look up her age. I thought she was a solid 39, but shes 31. ALLEGEDLY. Anyway, nothing new gen about her!! Reply Parent Thread Link I figured she was 24-25! Reply Parent Thread Link this is true! It takes practice to project your energy in such huge spaces. Even for smaller bands, they will jump venue size in 6 months and not change their set and it falls flat :/ Reply Parent Thread Link Even when 21 was about to come out, before she blew up Adele was booking small venues, then she had the surgery, Rolling in the deep blew up and she had to reschedule the tour, she upgraded to bigger venues but they were still not even arenas, I saw her at an outdoor venue in Salt Lake City. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Even Olivia did theaters for Sour tour Reply Parent Thread Link there's also something to be said about the pr and hype selling out venues even if they're small and then let's not forget the sm aspect having fans who want tickets but can't get them contributing also Reply Parent Thread Link late response, but even olivia rodrigo and lil nas x both did sub-arena tours first to avoid a situation like this. much better to leave money on the table starting out with a smaller tour than to end up in this situation. Reply Parent Thread Link This gives me such second hand shame omg. If I was an artist and this happened to me I would simply vanish into thin air. This reminds me of when G-Dragon came to perform in Amsterdam (I also don't know why I went I don't like him) and it was so shameful. It took FOREVER to get into the venue because they were bumping everyone to better seats so that they could fully curtain off the top ring to make it seem sold out even though it was far from. And ofc YG was like "SO SUCCESFUL TOUR AMAZING WE DA BEST" and I'm like my man I know the sour truth. Reply Thread Link That happens in kpop alot. Stans like to act like it's so big in the West, but it's still incredibly niche. Lol Reply Parent Thread Link Yeah and they were dumb af booking venues in the UK, Netherlands, Germany and France! Those countries are too close together, if there is no show in NL we will travel to Germany if needed it's so simple. They should have booked way smaller venues and just swallowed the ego. Impossible for them ofcourse... Reply Parent Thread Link that happened to me at big bang's first show in newark. we got bumped to better seats. Reply Parent Thread Link it's what she deserves after releasing an album of songs produced by dr. l*ke and calling it problematique Reply Thread Link fr, i have 0 sympathy. good luck booking that stage u speak of, etc Reply Parent Thread Link Right? She has earned this embarrassment Reply Parent Thread Link WAIT one of her stans tried to tell me she didn't work with Dr. Luke anymore trash!! Reply Parent Thread Link she's definitely branched out, but that particular album is all produced by him Reply Parent Thread Link he did every song on this album. She started to branch away from him with unholy but the number of songs of hers he's produced is still almost all of them. it'd be easier to count the ones he DIDn't do for her. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link To be fair, Problematique was recorded years and years ago, but then again, the Alone with Nicki Minaj was made this year and that was also produced by Puke so,. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link I don't understand why she does, unlike it's a contract issue. She seems to be prolific enough with songwriting, so I don't get it? Or maybe it's different culture, different standards? I dunno, I truly don't understand Reply Parent Thread Expand Link The benchmark U.S. oil price rose early on Thursday to the highest level since August 2022, extending Wednesdays surge as U.S. commercial inventories continue to decline more than expected. WTI Crude prices exceeded $95 per barrel in early Asian trade on Thursday, hitting the highest price level in 13 months. The international benchmark, Brent Crude, also jumped and touched a new high for 2023 after topping $97 per barrel. Despite the continued strengthening of the U.S. dollar, oil rallied on Wednesday and early on Thursday in Asian trade as U.S. crude inventories continued to fall. The Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported on Wednesday a crude oil inventory draw of 2.2 million barrels for the week to September 22, far exceeding expectations of a draw in the low hundreds of thousands of barrels. In addition, the level of stocks at the Cushing hub has fallen to its lowest since July 2022, further boosting the U.S. benchmark oil price. Cushing, Oklahoma, is the delivery point for the NYMEX crude oil futures contract. Crude inventories at Cushing dropped by 943,000 barrels from the prior week to 22 million barrels, which is close to the operational minimum. The low stocks at Cushing and the falling trend in U.S. commercial crude inventories add to tightening supplies elsewhere as the market has started to feel the impact of the OPEC+ production and export cuts. Stocks are drawing while demand keeps growing. We are still far away from a price level causing demand destruction, Stefano Grasso, a senior portfolio manager at 8VantEdge in Singapore, told Reuters. On Wednesday, Craig Erlam, senior market analyst at OANDA, commented on oils resumed rally, I think what weve seen over the last week or so is a little profit-taking and the fact its already on the march higher is potentially a sign of how bullish traders still are. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com ADVERTISEMENT More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Saudi Aramco, the world's foremost national oil and gas company, has boosted its investment activity with the announcement of the acquisition of a minority stake in U.S.-based MidOcean Energy, owned by EIG, a prominent institutional investor in energy and infrastructure sectors. This development has taken many by surprise, considering Aramco's historical focus on oil, despite its substantial reserves of natural and associated gas in Saudi Arabia. Aramco has been actively positioning itself as a prominent International National Oil Company (INOC), expanding its footprint in both upstream and downstream sectors worldwide. The acquisition, estimated to be valued at $500 million, involves a minority stake, and the exact percentage remains undisclosed pending a comprehensive report. Presently, MidOcean Energy is securing interests in four Australian LNG projects, with indications that further acquisitions are on the horizon. Given that EIG, the owner of MidOcean Energy, has already invested a substantial $45.1 billion in the energy sector across 400 projects or companies in 42 countries spanning six continents, such expansion plans are entirely plausible. EIG's primary financial supporters include sovereign wealth funds, international banks, and pension funds. Notably, Aramco and EIG are not newcomers to collaboration, having been part of a consortium that acquired a 49% stake in Aramco Oil Pipelines Company, a subsidiary of Aramco, in 2021. This investment in global LNG marks Aramco's foray into non-oil-related sectors, reflecting the company's ambition to diversify its portfolio. Additionally, Aramco holds an option to increase its overall shareholding in MidOcean Energy in the future. Related: IEA Faces Backlash Over Bold 2030 Oil Demand Forecast Aramco's CEO, Amin Nasser, emphasized the strategic importance of this acquisition, stating, "We anticipate strong demand-led growth for LNG as the world continues on its energy transition journey, with gas being a vital fuel and feedstock in various industries. We believe that gas will be important in meeting the world's rising need for secure, accessible, and more sustainable energy." Furthermore, Aramco's Upstream President, Nasir Al Naimi, indicated that this acquisition is just the initial step in Aramco's pursuit of a prominent global role in the LNG sector. This suggests the possibility of Aramco expanding its equity stake in MidOcean Energy and exploring new opportunities worldwide. Collaboration with EIG, a well-entrenched player in the sector with experience in dealing with Arab sovereign wealth funds and NOCs, is conceivable. EIG's CEO and Chairman, Blair Thomas, reaffirmed their commitment to the energy transition, highlighting the LNG industry's readiness for change and the potential role of agile, specialized companies like MidOcean Energy. MidOcean Energy's CEO, De la Rey Venter, also expressed confidence in Aramco's long-term commitment to exploring new opportunities. In parallel developments, Aramco has initiated discussions for a multibillion-dollar investment in China's refining sector. Talks are underway with Jiangsu Eastern Shenghong Co., with both parties signing a cooperation framework agreement. This agreement paves the way for Aramco to potentially acquire a 10% strategic equity interest in Jiangsu Shenghong Petrochemical Industry Group (Shenghong Petrochemical), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eastern Shenghong. The transaction is subject to due diligence and regulatory approvals. Shenghong Petrochemical owns and operates a 320,000 barrels per day integrated refinery and petrochemicals complex, a methanol-to-olefins and derivatives complex, and a purified terephthalic acid production facility through its wholly-owned subsidiaries. Aramco's intention is to supply crude oil and potentially other feedstocks to Shenghong Petrochemical while exploring participation in a large expansion project. While Asia, and especially China, remains a focal point for Aramco's expansion plans, as evidenced by the ongoing discussions and the acquisition of MidOcean Energy stakes, the company's outward vision extends to other regions as well. Expect more news to emerge in the near future, possibly involving European or African investments. Egypt is on the radar, and an Aramco stake in the East Med LNG project might also be on the horizon. By Cyril Widdershoven for Oilprice.com ADVERTISEMENT More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Plans agreed last year by Azerbaijan and the European Union for Baku to double the volume of gas it sends to Europe to 20 billion cubic metres a year are on hold as European gas buyers have yet to confirm they'll take the gas. Speaking to reporters at a round table meeting in the Turkish capital Ankara on September 14, Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar confirmed that his ministry had instructed the operator of the TANAP pipeline which carries Azeri gas across Turkey to Greece, to prepare to expand the pipeline to its full 31 billion cubic metres a year capacity, in order to carry the extra 10 billion cubic metres a year. But he added that, as far as he was aware, as yet neither the operators of Azerbaijan's main gas fields nor the operators of the three pipelines which carry the gas from Azerbaijan to European markets had received confirmation that the gas actually has a market in Europe. "I'm not quite sure whether the European market is ready to receive more gas on a long-term basis from TANAP. " he said, explaining that he had discussed the issue many times with Azerbaijan's state oil company SOCAR which is a partner in all the country's gas fields and in the three transit pipelines that carry the gas to Europe. "On the European side, I don't think they are giving a full-fledged long-term commitment for the off-taking of this additional gas. Without this commitment, I don't think the expansion is possible," he added, explaining that without commitments to purchase the extra gas, even the companies operating Azerbaijan's gas fields won't be able to invest to expand production to the extent needed to produce that extra gas. Owned by Azerbaijan (58%), Turkey (30%) and BP (12%), TANAP is one of the sequence of three pipelines which make up the Southern Gas Corridor, the EU-backed gas corridor planned as far back as the 1990s and which finally began supplying up to 10 billion cubic metres a year of gas to Europe in 2020. Image (Wikimedia Commons) All three pipelines will need to be expanded to their full capacity to allow exports to reach 20 billion cubic metres a year, but that expansion will require substantial investment to install extra compressors, which in turn requires guarantees that there will be extra gas available to fill the expanded pipelines and that this extra gas can be sold. The plans to double exports of Azeri gas to Europe were agreed under a memorandum of understanding between the European Union and Azerbaijan signed in July last year. The agreement was signed in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine the previous February and growing fears that the loss of Russian gas imports of upwards of 180 billion cubic metres a year would leave Europe starved of gas and suffering widespread power outages. The wording however was not that of a formal commitment, signalling only that the two sides had agreed to "aspire" to support doubling Azeri gas exports to Europe to "at least 20 billion cubic meters of gas annually by 2027, in accordance with commercial viability and market demand." But while Europe has faced unprecedented increases in energy prices, a continent-wide energy shortage has been avoided thus far thanks to greatly increasing imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and boosting power generation from other sources such as coal, nuclear and renewables. This has left both sides facing a conundrum. If there is no gas shortage, there is no guaranteed market for the extra gas Azerbaijan is supposed to supply, and no reason to invest in expanding either production or the capacity of the pipelines. At the same time, it's still unclear just how much extra gas Azerbaijan will be able to supply, and when. Current production capacity on the BP-operated Shah Deniz gas field which supplies the bulk of Azerbaijan's gas exports, is not able to supply the full 10 billion cubic metres of extra gas required. BP has started drilling exploration wells in two deep reservoirs which may be able to provide more gas but it is unclear whether they will find commercially exploitable volumes. But even if that happens, bringing those wells on stream will take time and require further investment which in turn will require some form of guarantee that the gas will find a market. Also, France's Total Energies recently started production of around 1.5 billion cubic metres a year of gas from Azerbaijan's Absheron gas field. That can be expanded to around 5.5 billion cubic metres a year but again that will require more investment, for which the operators will require commitments that the gas can be sold. Azerbaijan has already managed to increase its gas exports to Europe to 11.4 billion cubic metres last year, and is expected to reach 11.6 billion cubic metres this year. However Baku also has commitments to supply gas to its neighbours Georgia and Turkey as well as growing domestic demand, and last year's increased exports were realised in part by a complex gas swap agreement with Turkmenistan and Iran, which was recently expanded further and may be expanded again, and also in part by Azerbaijan importing Russian gas (in contravention of the Azerbaijan-EU deal's political intention of reducing the EU's dependency on Russian gas.) Again it's unclear to what extent that "swap" deal could be expanded, and, even whether gas sourced from Iran could be used to provide exports to Europe given that Tehran is still subject to international sanctions. Also unclear is whether Azerbaijan's military offensive to take full control of Nagorno-Karabakh will have any impact on EU relations with Baku, and hence on future gas trade. ADVERTISEMENT Speaking on September 24 French President Emmanuel Macron accused Azerbaijan's authorities of being "uninhibited" and "threatening the border of Armenia." And on September 25, David McAllister, the chair of the European parliament's foreign affairs committee, suggested that the EU "should make it clear that any attempt to remove or coerce the Armenian population from the Nagorno-Karabakh region will have serious consequences for our relations with Azerbaijan." (Indeed it appears that the large majority of the region's population has decided to flee rather than live under Azerbaijani rule.) Turkish hub requires gas A solution to the conundrum may come from Turkey, in the shape of Ankara's planned gas trading hub in northwestern Turkey, close to the country's four pipeline connections which already transit gas to Europe. Although details have yet to be finalised and made public, what Ankara envisages is a trading point like the Title Transfer Facility (TTF) trading point in the Netherlands where gas arriving from multiple sources either by pipeline or as liquefied natural gas is traded. Speaking at his round table meeting, Turkish energy minister Alparslan Bayraktar explained how he envisages gas from various sources by pipeline and LNG arriving in Turkey could be traded on Turkey's existing EPIAS energy exchange in Istanbul, which already trades gas for the Turkish market. That, though, requires gas from multiple sources, which can be traded. Turkey currently has considerable excess LNG import capacity, and imports gas by pipeline from Azerbaijan, Russia and Iran. With international sanctions likely to restrict transit of both Russian and Iranian gas to Europe through a Turkish hub, that potentially leaves just LNG and Azeri, offering a possible incentive for investment to boost both Azeri gas production, and the capacity of the pipelines to carry any extra gas to Europe. By David OByrne via Eurasianet.org More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: A Los Angeles judge this week refused to overturn a countys decision prohibiting Exxon from using tanker trucks to move crude oil from offshore platforms to refineries after the rupture of a pipeline seven years ago. The pipeline, near Santa Barbara, ruptured in 2015, causing a substantial spill, after which it was suspended. However, it has not been fixed, either, due to strong local opposition to all pipelines, so Exxon tried to turn to tanker trucks as an alternative means of transporting crude oil from the place of production to the place of processing. Yet in early 2022 the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors denied the supermajor a trucking permit, citing evidence that tanker trucks are dangerous. Now, Judge Dolly Gee has upheld the decision of the board of supervisors, saying Exxon had no vested or fundamental right to use tanker trucks for transporting its oil, Reuters reported. Exxon has stated that the right to use tanker trucks was essential for restarting three offshore platforms and an onshore processing facility that was shut down after the spill. The three platforms produced some 30,000 barrels of crude daily. The company has also argued that the Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors decision represented an unconstitutional taking of Exxons property. That claim and others related to the constitution will be looked into by the court later. Environmentalist organizations welcomed the judges ruling on the tanker trucks. Meanwhile, earlier this year, the Santa Barbara Planning Commission denied Pacific Pipeline Corporation, in charge of the Pipeline 901 which ruptured in 2015, the right to upgrade the infrastructure, even though the upgrade was not a preparatory move for putting it back into operation. ADVERTISEMENT Pacific Pipeline Corporation, an Exxon affiliate, stated it needed to replace valves on the pipeline in line with state mandates for installing the best technology available in pipelines. However, the commission denied the plan amid more local anti-pipeline protests. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Tightening global crude supply and rising international prices have raised the price at which Russias crude is being sold to India at about $20 per barrel over the G7 price cap of $60, traders have told Reuters. The Russian flagship crude grade, Urals, is being sold to one of Moscows top customers, India, at nearly $80 per barrel now, or around 30% above the price cap set by the G7 and the EU if Russian crude shipments to third countries outside the EU are to use Western insurance and financing. Data from traders and Reuters calculations showed that free on board (FOB) Urals cargoes to load from Russias western ports on the Baltic Sea in October were nearly $80 a barrel for Indian refiners as of Thursday. The tightening global supply, especially crudes from the Middle East which have high diesel yields, have made Russias Urals more attractive, due to the discount at which the Russian grades trade relative to the international benchmark Brent. In India, where diesel is the number-one fuel in terms of consumption, Urals is in high demand, despite being much more expensive compared to the first half of this year. But other similar grades, if available at all, are costlier than Urals. Urals prices are on the rise again. Alternatives are much more expensive and not easily available, one trader with knowledge of the Russian oil market told Reuters. The price of Urals breached the G7 price cap in July and has averaged well above the ceiling since then. Urals prices averaged $74 per barrel in August, slightly down from August 2022, but way above the G7 price cap of $60 and higher than the July average of $64.37 a barrel, data released by the Russian Finance Ministry showed in early September. Between January and August 2023, the average price of Urals was $56.58 per barrel, compared to an average of $82.13 a barrel for the same period of 2022. ADVERTISEMENT By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Saudi Arabia could begin easing its production cut sooner than oil market participants believe as the worlds top crude oil exporter wouldnt risk demand destruction through too high prices, consultancy Rapidan Energy Group says. Due to the Saudi and OPEC+ cuts and falling commercial crude inventories in the U.S., oil prices climbed to their highest levels in months in early trade on Thursday the U.S. benchmark jumped to a 13-month high and Brent hit the highest price since November 2022 and a new high for 2023. Early this month, Saudi Arabia extended its 1 million bpd cut through December. The production levels would be reviewed each month until the end of 2023. According to Rapidan Energys president Bob McNally, Saudi Arabia could start easing the cuts sooner than traders realize as it wouldnt want to overheat the market. They do not want to deliberately over-tighten the market, because if you get a spike, then you get a demand collapse, and you get a bust, McNally told Bloomberg Television in an interview on Thursday. The real sensible way to bring prices to heel is for Saudi Arabia and OPEC+ to say: Weve made our point, weve scared away the speculative shorts, the energy expert added. Last week, Warren Patterson, Head of Commodities Strategy at ING, said that even though the oil price rally had more room to run, a break above $100 per barrel for Brent wouldnt be sustainable. OPEC+ will also want to be careful about overtightening the oil market. They will be shooting themselves in the foot if they push prices to levels where we start to see an increased risk of demand destruction, Patterson wrote in a note. ADVERTISEMENT OPEC+ will continue to review supply cuts on a monthly basis, so we could very well see the group or at least Saudi Arabia gradually ease its additional voluntary cuts this year, which would help take some pressure off the market. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: There is a risk of blackouts in the UK in January when demand for electricity peaks and nuclear power plants enter scheduled maintenance. This is according to the countrys Electricity Supply Operator, with the entitys head of national control telling Bloomberg the risk of blackouts was smaller than it was last year. The reason for the smaller risk, according to Craig Dyke, is the replacement of Russian pipeline gas with LNG in Europe, the continents full gas storage facilities, and the return of French nuclear power after a series of unplanned outages last year. If you look at that risk position compared with this year and last year, the risks are much much lower now, Dyke told Reuters. National Gas Transmission also had a positive message, saying it expected gas demand this winter at pretty much the same level as last winter but the market is well supplied and it would take a combination of negative developments such as a very cold winter and tight gas supply to threaten the UKs energy security. It would take a combination of events (e.g. a very cold winter in the UK coinciding with a major interruption to one of our gas supply sources) for there to be a material risk to our energy security, National Gas Transmissions systems operations director, Ian Radley, said in a statement. If neither of these things happens, the UK will be fine with local power generation, including wind power and battery backup, and electricity imports from France. Still, the UKs energy suppliers and grid operator are preparing for various eventualities, after last year National Grid warned of a possibility of three-hour rolling blackouts due to insufficient gas supplies. ADVERTISEMENT That was in the midst of the European energy crunch when Russian pipeline gas deliveries were decimated and the continent was in a rush to fill its storage. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Chinas dominance in critical minerals mining and processing will make global energy security in the energy transition infinitely more complex, U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm said at a conference on Thursday. The fuel of this energy transition critical minerals is going to make global energy security infinitely more complex and infinitely more important over the next few decades, Granholm told the International Energy Agencys (IEA) critical minerals summit, as carried by the Financial Times. In this critical minerals context, we are up against a dominant supplier that is willing to weaponise market power for political gain, she noted. Earlier this year, the IEA said in a first-ever annual Critical Minerals Market Review that the market has doubled in recent years, but warned that limited sustainability in production and processing is one of the key challenges for the industry ahead, alongside limited source diversification. The share of the top three producers in 2022 either remained unchanged or has increased further, especially for nickel and cobalt, compared with three years ago. China, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Indonesia continue to dominate a large part of the critical raw material supply, while China is a dominant player in refining operations. For example, Congo has maintained its strong position as the leading cobalt producer, accounting for over 70% of global production in 2022, while China continues to maintain a stronghold in refined product supplies, accounting for more than 75% of refined cobalt output in 2022, the IEA noted. Most of the planned projects are also in several countries, with China holding half of planned lithium chemical plants and Indonesia representing nearly 90% of planned nickel refining facilities, the agency said. As the technology war between China and the West escalates and the energy transition progresses, China is boosting investments in critical minerals overseas as part of its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), aiming to secure more raw materials for batteries and solar panels. ADVERTISEMENT By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: At the prospect of seeing a play youve seen many times before, its natural to wonder what might set the new production apart from all the others. Thats especially true when the playwright is William Shakespeare. His works are in the public domain, and, therefore, directors, actors and designers can basically perform it any way they want without worrying about a copyright. Ive seen Shakespeare set in the 1940s, with costumes from that era, and in the world of samurais, among other treatments. I couldnt help but wonder whether a new production of Macbeth at the Bluebarn Theatre would involve some kind of alternate era or culture, although I thought it probably was unlikely. I was right its set in Shakespeares time, with historically accurate costumes and scenery. But that doesnt mean its not unique. Many symbolic, thematic and atmospheric choices from director Beth Ann Hopkins and the Bluebarn team make it more than memorable. The theater has assembled one of the best casts Ive ever seen in a local production of Macbeth, including actors from elsewhere who have been here for shows with the now-defunct Nebraska Shakespeare, and others who have been on New York stages. Combined with our homegrown talent which is considerable that alone sets it apart. But several other elements also elevated it for me, and gave my friends and me lots to think about. To begin with, a major part of scenic designer Martin Marchittos set are thick white ropes strung all across the stage in various ways. Throughout the play, the actors interact with the ropes moving them, taking them down etc. until it seems as though theyre another character in the tragedy. My friends and I suspected that maybe among other things the ropes represent Macbeths increasingly muddled mind and the violence and wars that result from his reign of tyranny. If theres a way to illustrate chaos, that was it. Be sure to watch what happens with the ropes at the end. The second thing I noticed was how the Weird Sisters spirits who taunt Macbeth are dressed in white instead of the traditional witch black I have seen before. I wasnt sure how to interpret that, but it definitely gave them a higher profile. Unlike other productions Ive seen, theyre also in nearly every scene lurking in the background at all times when theyre not actually interacting with Macbeth. That, for me, amplifies their major purpose, which was to drive Macbeth insane or at least represent his decline. Youre left to decide whether theyre really there or just the deranged figments of his imagination. I also was extremely taken with the original music by New York composer and musician Elliot Roth, which added exponentially to the production. His choppy, discordant keyboard chords were an audio depiction of Macbeths tired, confused and tortured brain. Id never been to a Macbeth with such an evocative score. Of course, all this would be for naught without the actors. Several deserve special mention: Ryan Kathman, whose Macbeth has an impressive depth. Jill Anderson as the power-hungry Lady Macbeth. Her out, out damn spot dialogue is superb, and she also is the costume designer. Take note of the rope dress shes wearing in that seminal scene symbolism, anyone? Alissa Hanish, Zoella Sneed and Lilly Weak as the Weird Sisters, who do a great job with somewhat garbled, rapid-fire dialogue, maniacal moves and sounds no human ever emits. Jimmy Nguyen, who stepped in as Banquo at the last minute, and youd never know it. Moira Mangiameli, who plays three roles, including a memorable turn at the ethereal cauldron with the sisters. The rest of the cast was excellent as well. And a shoutout to fight choreographers Kevin Barratt and Murphy Scott Wulfgar is also in order. Shakespeare is sometimes a difficult slog for me, but I can recommend this Macbeth without reservations. Folks at the Bluebarn always pay attention to the details, both gigantic and minute, and this show is a prime example of that. If you pay attention to the Queen song thats playing as you leave the theater, youll know exactly what I mean. Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of September 2023 School archery and hunter safety programs wont risk the loss of federal funding after an overwhelming vote by Congress to protect the programs, including advocacy by Nebraska and Iowa lawmakers. In a Thursday press release, Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, said the White House confirmed that President Joe Biden would sign the Protecting Hunting Heritage and Education Act. It passed unanimously in the Senate, and then with a 424-1 vote in the House on Wednesday. The legislation will ensure that schools that offer archery or hunting education will still be able to receive federal funding. Earlier this year, the Biden administration issued guidance to elementary and secondary schools that they could not use federal money on archery and hunting programs, citing last years Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. The federal gun safety bill, which includes a number of provisions that advocates say will save lives, also contained an amendment to the Elementary and Secondary Act of 1965 blocking money to any person with a dangerous weapon or to provide training in the use of a dangerous weapon. In August, Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., joined 18 other Republican senators in a letter to criticize the administration for its position on archery and hunting education programs. Later, Fischer and Sen. Pete Ricketts, R-Neb., co-sponsored legislation that was similar to the bill that passed Wednesday. Rules like this tell states like mine, Washington bureaucrats dont understand our way of life, Ricketts said in a press release this month. Nebraskans have a deep appreciation for the great outdoors of our state, and we should be fostering that in the next generation however we can, including hunting and archery. There arent many in-school hunter education programs in Nebraska, but more than 300 schools participate in the National Archery in Schools Program, a national in-school program that aims to improve student educational performance through archery curriculum. Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of September 2023 Its the publics turn to voice concerns, thoughts and desires about the leadership of Nebraskas largest school district. On Thursday, Spencer Head, president of the Omaha Public Schools board, announced the launch of a dozen community forums to collect feedback about the district and its next superintendent. The board is seeking a new leader following the resignation of Cheryl Logan. Matt Ray who isnt involved in the search is currently interim superintendent until a new candidate is hired, which is projected to happen in February 2024. Wed love to have everybody from the community whether youre a parent or student, staff or just general taxpayer whos interested in the trajectory of the district, Head said. Wed love to have you attend to get your feedback on who youd like to lead the school district. Forums will be conducted in all nine subdistricts of the OPS district, plus the Teacher Administration Center. The forums began Thursday and will end next Wednesday. There also will be two virtual forums, which can be accessed on the districts website. Each meeting will have bilingual liaisons. Head said the forums will be informal conversations to gather input on the districts strengths and weaknesses and what qualities the public wants in its next superintendent. The board is also facilitating a community survey that launched Monday and is open until Oct. 10. Its the same survey that was conducted in May, collecting feedback from roughly 2,000 people. In that survey, 57% of participants said they want the districts next superintendent to be ready to take the district in a different direction. Head said the upcoming forums will be essential to figuring out what direction that will be. Thats one of the things Im hoping we can kind of iron out ... what exactly is that different direction? Do you not like everything? Is it a specific program? What is it that people are unhappy with? Head said. Youve got to imagine that everybody has a different reason for why they answer that, so (well be) figuring out what that actually means. The board is also hosting private stakeholder sessions with multiple businesses it regularly works with. And district officials said six forums are planned specifically for OPS employees. Following the forums, the school board will finalize the profile of its next superintendent based on feedback, and will begin accepting applications Oct. 17. Applications will be due by Jan. 16. The board plans to review a list of semifinalists by the first week of February and interview finalist candidates in mid-February. We know from an internal standpoint what we need as far as a leader who can lead the administration, can keep things going and keep the trains running on time, Head said. Were going to take all the community input, kind of mesh it as best we can with what we know we need, so we can get the best of both worlds. Two forums were scheduled for Thursday evening. They are at 6-7 p.m. in the South High theater, 4519 S. 24th St., and 7:30-8:30 p.m., in the Burke High cafeteria, 12200 Burke Blvd. The schedule for the others: Friday 3:30-4:30 p.m., Lewis & Clark Middle gymnasium, 6901 Burt St. Saturday 9:45-10:45 a.m., North Highs Viking Center, 4410 N. 36th St. 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Virtual community forum Tuesday 8-9 a.m., TAC Building auditorium, 3215 Cuming St. 6-7 p.m., McMillan Middle cafeteria, 3802 Redick Ave. 6-7 p.m., Buena Vista High cafeteria, 5616 L St. 7:15-8:15 p.m., Norris Middle cafeteria, 2235 S. 46th St. Wednesday 6-7 p.m., Westview High, 15800 Summit Plz., Bennington 7:15-8:15 p.m., Northwest High, 8204 Crown Point Ave. Photos: Omaha's Franklin Elementary kindergarten teacher starts 41st year of teaching WASHINGTON The U.S. secured the release of a U.S. soldier who sprinted across a heavily fortified border into North Korea more than two months ago, and he is on his way back to America, officials said Wednesday. U.S. ally Sweden and rival China helped with the transfer. Left unanswered were questions of why Pyongyang which has tense relations with Washington over the North's nuclear program, support for Russia's war in Ukraine and other issues agreed to turn him over and why the soldier fled in the first place. North Korea abruptly announced earlier Wednesday that it would expel Pvt. Travis King though some had expected the North to drag out his detention in hopes of squeezing concessions from Washington at a time of high tensions between the two countries. "U.S. officials have secured the return of Private Travis King from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea," White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said in a statement. "We appreciate the dedication of the interagency team that has worked tirelessly out of concern for Private King's well-being." Officials said they did not know why North Korea decided to expel King, but suspected Pyongyang determined that as a low-ranking serviceman he had no real value in terms of either leverage or information. One official, who requested anonymity, said the North Koreans may have decided that King, 23, was more trouble to keep than to simply release him. Swedish officials took King to the Chinese border, where he was met by the U.S. Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns, the Swedish ambassador to China, and at least one U.S. Defense Department official. Biden administration officials insisted they provided no concessions to North Korea to secure the soldier's release. King was flown to a U.S. military base in South Korea before being returned to the U.S. His expulsion almost certainly does not end his troubles or ensure the sort of celebratory homecoming that has accompanied the releases of other detained Americans. He was declared AWOL from the Army, which can mean military jail, forfeiture of pay or a dishonorable discharge. In the near term, officials said their focus would be on helping King reintegrate into U.S. society, including helping him address mental and emotional concerns, a senior Biden administration official said. The soldier was in "good spirits and good health" upon his release, according to one senior administration official. He was to be taken to Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston in Texas, and was expected to arrive overnight, officials said. King, who served in South Korea, ran into North Korea while on a civilian tour of a border village on July 18, becoming the first American confirmed to be detained in the North in almost five years. At the time he crossed the border, King was supposed to be heading to Fort Bliss, Texas, after his release from prison in South Korea on an assault conviction. After arriving on the Texas military installation, King is expected to undergo psychological assessments and debriefings. He will also get a chance to meet with family. Sweden was the chief interlocutor with North Korea on the transfer, while China helped facilitate his transfer, administration officials said. Biden administration officials expressed gratitude for China's assistance with the transfer but underscored that Beijing did not play a mediating role in securing King's release. The U.S. first learned through Swedish officials this month that North Korea wanted to expel King. That information accelerated the effort to release King with Sweden acting on the United States' behalf in its talks with the North, an official said. On Wednesday, the North's official Korean Central News Agency reported that authorities finished their questioning of King. It said he confessed to illegally entering the North because he harbored "ill feeling against inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination" within the U.S. Army and was "disillusioned about the unequal U.S. society." It attributed similar comments to King before, and verifying their authenticity is impossible. Some previous foreign detainees have said after their releases that declarations of guilt while in North Korean custody were made under coercion. The White House did not address the North Korean state media reports that King fled because of his dismay about racial discrimination and inequality in the military and U.S. society. Both Koreas ban anyone from crossing their heavily fortified shared border without special permissions. The Americans who crossed into North Korea in the past include soldiers, missionaries, human rights advocates or those simply curious about one of the world's most cloistered societies. GERING, Neb. Authorities apprehended the suspect in a two-day standoff in Gering on Wednesday night. At 7:45 p.m., a Star-Herald reporter on the scene of the standoff reported several flash bangs and gunshots. Officers were heard shooting commands and soon after, scanner traffic indicated that the suspect, Bradley Garcia, had been taken into custody. According to scanner traffic, the situation was being "demobilized." The man was reported to have suffered minor injuries and was being transported to Regional West Medical Center by ambulance. The standoff began Tuesday and had lasted nearly 29 hours. A hostage was released about 1:30 p.m. Wednesday. Before the standoff, Scotts Bluff County Sheriff Mark Overman said Wednesday, a Scotts Bluff County sheriffs deputy had tried to stop Garcia on Five Rocks Road for a traffic violation and Garcia refused to stop. A Gering police officer also become involved in the pursuit, which ended as Garcia crashed his vehicle into a garage in the 2300 block of 19th Street in Gering and fled into the home. During the pursuit, Garcia allegedly fired at the deputy, but did not strike him or his vehicle. Once inside the home, Garcia took two juvenile girls and a woman hostage, but eventually he allowed the two girls to leave the home. The woman was released Wednesday afternoon; details about her condition and release were not immediately available. Law enforcement had remained stationed at the 19th Street and Kings Road area since about 3:30 p.m. Tuesday. As the standoff continued, Overman said, Garcia had allegedly fired at officers multiple times using more than one weapon. Much of Wednesday morning, the scene remained quiet. However, early Wednesday afternoon, Star-Herald reporters at the scene saw explosions, heard loud pops and bangs, believed from comments by officers on the scene to be gases being released into the home. Authorities also had used drones to monitor the home, and an ambulance and firetruck were among the vehicles on the scene. Troy Brown, chief deputy with the Scotts Bluff County Sheriffs Office, told the Star-Herald that Garcia had reneged multiple times in negotiations on plans to surrender or release the woman. The standoff also affected schools in the community. Shortly after law enforcement reported shots fired, school officials immediately put all schools in Gering on lockdown, which was then narrowed to Gering High School and Northfield Elementary around 3:38 p.m. Tuesday. At 5:04 p.m., Gering police and emergency responders started a controlled release of students from Gering High. A controlled release at Northfield and at other schools in the district had occurred earlier. By 6:09 p.m., all students had been released from schools, and all activities and other events were canceled. On Wednesday morning, the Gering Public Schools announced that classes were canceled for the day out of an abundance of caution. After the standoff ended, Gering schools issued a release that classes would resume as normal Thursday. The standoff scene included armored vehicles used by the Nebraska State Patrol and the Scotts Bluff County SWAT team, and a tactical vehicle used by the Alliance Police Department. By Wednesday, the response included a hostage rescue team from Quantico, Virginia. At some points, reporters estimated that as many as 40 officers were on the scene. Star-Herald staff writers Fletcher Halfaker and Jack Underwood contributed to this report. LINCOLN A Nebraska conservative think tank is calling on the states lawmakers to focus on issues relating to workforce shortages, taxes and education in the next session. The Platte Institute held panels on each of these subjects at its annual legislative summit Thursday morning. During the event, Speaker of the Legislature John Arch confirmed that lawmakers will likely address some, if not all, of these issues when the Legislature resumes Jan. 3. But first, Arch said, lawmakers will probably begin 2024 with another rules debate, which he hopes will provide clarity on the Legislatures rules for the remaining session. Lawmakers spent multiple days in the 2023 session debating rules, some of which was spurred by a session-long filibuster one senator launched to oppose a controversial bill restricting gender-affirming care. I have never seen a session, as we saw in this past session, where people were running around on the floor with bright orange rule books, Arch said. Arch said he hopes the debate results in a set of rules that allow all lawmakers an equal chance to speak and promotes legislative debate that is more focused on policy, rather than interpretation of existing rules. Aside from potential rules changes, Arch listed several policies he expects the Legislature will address next year. The executive board will likely tackle a recent opinion by the states attorney general stating that the Inspector General of Nebraska Child Welfare and the Inspector General of Corrections are unconstitutional positions. Arch said he also anticipates lawmakers will propose tweaks to a large tax relief package that passed this year, along with continuing work to remove barriers to certification and licensing to reduce the states workforce shortage. He said he also hopes reform to property assessment valuations comes up. All of these subjects were expanded upon by panelists who spoke later in the summit. Workforce Heath Mello, CEO of the Greater Omaha Chamber, said a lack of affordable housing and child care options are the main obstacles employers face when trying to recruit new workers in Omaha and surrounding areas. Mello and the other panelists agreed that removing licensure requirements is one way Nebraska can make it easier on businesses to hire new employees. According to Platte Institute research, about a quarter of Nebraskas jobs require a form of government permit or license, amounting to roughly 200 positions. The Platte Institute promoted Legislative Bill 16, introduced by former Sen. Tom Briese of Albion this year, as a measure that would reduce this barrier. If passed, the bill would allow employers to recognize licenses employees obtained from other states, and would make it easier for people with criminal records to obtain licenses. Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln, a panelist and LB 16 co-sponsor, said addressing workforce challenges is one of a few issues with broad consensus in the current Legislature. If its good public policy, we should seize that ground, she said. In addition to addressing workforce shortages, Conrad said the bill could also reduce recidivism rates and Nebraskas growing prison population by giving formerly incarcerated people a better chance at re-entering society with a stable income. Diane Good-Collins, re-entry program director for Metropolitan Community College, said approximately 90% of the states prison population will be released within three years, referring to the demographic as the hidden workforce. To combat the negative stigma commonly faced by former prisoners, Good-Collins shared that she was previously incarcerated, and took her first college class from prison. Two weeks after her release, she said Metropolitan Community College hired her, and now shes been there for 20 years. Were smart, were committed, were loyal, and were part of the answer, Good-Collins said. Taxes Nebraska made great strides in tax relief this year through the passage of LB 754 and LB 243, panelists said, which combined will cut or offset more than $6 billion worth of property taxes and income taxes over the next six years. That leaves policymakers with the question of what Nebraska should do next. Panelists urged lawmakers to remain aggressive in their pursuit of additional tax changes, with several noting that other states are doing so. In order to remain competitive, panelists said Nebraska needs to keep up its momentum. You can fall behind by standing still, said Jonathan Williams, executive vice president of the American Legislative Exchange Council. Rather than continuing the push for tax cuts, panelists urged lawmakers to look toward improving Nebraskas tax structure. Platte Institutes senior policy adviser Michael Lucci said the state should remove its inheritance tax. An inheritance tax is a tax paid on assets that people inherit from someone who has died. The Platte Institute calls it outdated and inequitable. Manish Bhatt, senior policy analyst for the national nonprofit Tax Foundation, also suggested lawmakers consider levy limits, which he said would limit the amount of property tax collections the state could take. He argued this could balance out rising property valuations. Education Much of the panel on education reform focused on school choice opportunities, and praised the recent passage of LB 753, which will provide dollar-for-dollar tax credits for people who make donations to scholarship funds to private and faith-based schools. Though LB 753 currently faces a repeal effort via a ballot initiative, panelists encouraged lawmakers to build upon the bill to expand school choice opportunities. Lauren Gage, Nebraska director for the American Federation for Children, promoted an expansion of option enrollment, a state program that allows public school students to freely transfer from their home district to other public schools. Gage said students could be allowed to transfer to private schools at no cost as well, something some lawmakers have proposed in the past. Both Gage and Williams also expressed support for microschooling, a relatively new, independent education option thats often described as a cross between traditional schools and homeschooling. The class sizes are typically smaller, with some schools operating as private schools and others as simply learning centers. Gage said microschools would give parents more options to meet their childrens educational needs, and serve as a good employment opportunity. Williams said the evolving nature of microschools can make them difficult to regulate, but he suggested lawmakers review state statutes to avoid unnecessary roadblocks. He also encouraged lawmakers review their policies on charter and home schools for the same reason. 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. 28, 1923: It takes something more than an almost continual downpour to halt the Tazewell County Fair, which is now in progress in Morton. Judging continued as though the sun was shining, and while getting around was slippery, everybody was in good humor and laughed at the weather man for having the presumption to think he could disturb the fair. 75 years ago Sept. 28, 1948: Beneath a star-strewn sky, more than 2,000 people heard nine choirs from Bloomington-Normal churches and two barbershop choruses at Wesleyan Municipal Stadium. The choirs ranged from groups of about 20 to more than 50, accompanied by a piano, organ or combination of the two instruments. 50 years ago Sept. 28, 1973: Midwest farmers, already caught in the worst farm equipment shortage in 25 years, are keeping anxious eyes on the United Auto Workers' negotiations with the "big three" implement makers." UAW leaders have threatened to strike Deere & Co., which has 27,000 union employees. Strikes against Deere, Caterpillar and International Harvester could mean costly delays in getting needed field equipment even beyond next planting season. 25 years ago Sept. 28, 1998: Sponsored by the OSF St. Joseph Medical Center Auxiliary, the 10th annual Crystal Ball will raise money for an improved plasma sterilization system for the hospital. The goal for this year's event is to raise $47,736, with the remainder of the $99,237 cost to be covered by funds raised with activities throughout the year. LINCOLN A woman who said she was repeatedly sexually assaulted by a counselor while incarcerated at a downstate prison and that authorities failed to properly act on her accusations was awarded more than $19 million by a federal jury late last week. The womans 2018 federal lawsuit against Logan Correctional Center personnel said the assaults occurred at a time when there were dozens of allegations of sexual assault or harassment by Illinois Department of Corrections employees against people who were incarcerated. The jury awarded the woman, identified only as Jane Doe, $8 million in compensatory damages and more than $11 million in punitive damages. Defendants included Richard Macleod, who was accused of sexually assaulting the plaintiff while he was a counselor at Logan; Todd Sexton, an internal affairs investigator at the prison when the allegations surfaced; and Margaret Burke, Logans warden at the time of the alleged acts. What Im hoping is that a number like this will get somebodys attention at the Department of Corrections to finally grapple with this problem, which has been going on for decades, said Alan Mills, executive director of the Uptown Peoples Law Center, which helped represent the woman. The Department of Corrections desperately needs independent oversight and, you know, as Ive said, somebody at Logan should have been standing up and screaming it from the rooftops saying that this is going on and you have to stop, or we just cant do business as usual, Mills said. Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raouls office, which represented many of the defendants in the case, had no comment. The Illinois Department of Corrections also declined to comment. The woman alleged the assaults started in 2016 when she was assigned to a housing unit where Macleod was her counselor. Macleod subsequently let her use the phone in his office so she could call her daughter, and then sexually assaulted her during those meetings, according to court documents. At all times Macleod knew how important (the womans) phone calls with her daughter were to her and he knew that (the woman) would need to go through him in order to have the calls, the lawsuit stated. The woman was transferred to another housing unit but Macleod made a special effort to remain her counselor, the lawsuit stated. The woman did not report Macleods misconduct for fear of retribution. Macleod told the woman that he had a friend in the prison system, Sexton, who advised him on avoiding punishment, according to the lawsuit. (The woman) understood this to mean that Macleod would not be held accountable for his actions even if she did report his misconduct, the lawsuit stated. Macleods abuse of the woman continued through at least May 2017, before she was assigned a new counselor, according to the lawsuit. The woman was subsequently transferred to Decatur Correctional Center. The prison was farther from some family members and, in court documents, she described the transfer as an act of retaliation. The suit alleged that prison personnel at Logan knew as early as February 2017 that Macleod was in fact engaging in this pattern of abuse, knew of a substantial likelihood that defendant Macleod was sexually abusing prisoners at Logan, and/or failed to take reasonable steps to prevent it from continuing. According to court documents, 54 incidents of staff-on-inmate sexual misconduct at Logan were reported in 2016, according to the lawsuit. The Illinois State Police investigated the allegations against Macleod, and one investigator later testified that she suspected Macleod abused other inmates as well as the plaintiff, according to court documents. In the summer of 2017, Logans assistant warden, Angel Wilson, recommended that Macleod be locked out of working at the prison, according to court documents. But Macleod stayed at Logan for 13 months, and was paid an annual salary of more than $97,500 as of 2019, according to court documents. Macleod resigned from IDOC in July 2021 and was briefly employed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services in 2022 before being discharged by the department, according to a DCFS spokeswoman who said she could not provide more details on his firing. Macleod never showed up for hearings or otherwise engaged in the case over five years, according to Nicole Schult, legal director of the Uptown Peoples Law Center. A Springfield judge issued a default judgment against him, allowing the assaults to be admissible as fact in court, according to Schult and court transcripts. The state police investigated the alleged assaults against Jane Doe and other Logan inmates and recommended charges against Macleod, but the attorney generals office declined to prosecute, according to Christina Sharkey, a former partner at Kirkland & Ellis who worked on the plaintiffs behalf. Among other issues, DNA evidence was never collected. Macleod could not be reached for comment. Sexton still works at the Department of Corrections, a spokesperson confirmed. The states prison system faces issues on a number of fronts. On Tuesday, the states auditor general issued a report covering a two-year period ending in June 2022 that laid out several deficiencies at IDOC, including failing to adequately train some of its employees. IDOC officials told the auditor general they have made an effort to better train its employees, which was more difficult to do in the last few years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and pay down the liabilities owed by the commissary funds. IDOC has been under a federally mandated consent decree to overhaul its health care system since 2019, Gov. J.B. Pritzkers first year in office. The decree stemmed from a 2010 lawsuit filed by prisoners who alleged systemic problems that led to serious disease and even death for prisoners Last year, a federal monitor tasked with overseeing reforms within IDOC issued a report saying the prison system failed to provide adequate health care for the roughly 29,000 people who are incarcerated in the system. Shortcomings outlined in the report ranged from the mistreatment of elderly inmates to a severe shortage of doctors and nurses, as well as poor record-keeping. Photos: Pritzker Military Archives Center SPRINGFIELD State officials are reminding Illinois hunters that it is illegal to use drones for hunting or the recovery of wildlife. The reminder comes as the fall hunting season starts Sunday, Oct. 1, with the opening of archery deer and turkey seasons throughout the state. "Not only is drone use for hunting unlawful in Illinois, it goes against the spirit of fair chase and widely accepted hunting ethics," said Jed Whitchurch, director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources' Office of Law Enforcement. "Illinois Conservation Police officers will be monitoring for drone use during the fall and winter hunting seasons," he said. "We encourage all hunters to familiarize themselves with the Wildlife Code, abide by the law, and have a safe and successful hunting season." According to Whitchurch, IDNR and Illinois Conservation Police have received several inquiries from the public about the use of drones for scouting and tracking animals. The unlawful use of drones for hunting could result in enforcement action, he said, including but not limited to the seizure and forfeiture of unlawfully used equipment. Using technology during hunts is not new. Illinois' drone prohibition for hunters was passed in 2015. Two years earlier, lawmakers made it illegal to use drones to harass hunters or anglers. This summer, Hunter D. Baxter, 29, of Lucedale, Mississippi, was charged with illegally using thermal imaging and a gun with a silencer to hunt turkeys near the Cahokia Canal. "When people violate game laws, it's cheating," Madison County State's Attorney Tom Haine said in July. "It's unfair to all of the ethical hunters who practice good sportsmanship and are good stewards of our natural resources, and whose fees support conservation efforts." For more information visit the Illinois Wildlife Code, which regulates the taking of wildlife and the use of unmanned aircraft hunting, at (520 ILCS 5/2.33(i) and 520 ILCS 5/1.2o). Photos: Illinois State Fair political days through the years 2012 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2015 State Fair 2015 State Fair 2015 State Fair 2007 State Fair 2008 State Fair 2008 State Fair 2009 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2005 State Fair 2004 State Fair 2003 State Fair 2003 State Fair 2006 State Fair 2007 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2018 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2021 State Fair 2021 State Fair Ghana's Kasapreko Company Limited has expanded its presence into Kenya. The company presently exports to 16 countries globally under various brands in the bitters, whisky, gin, liqueur, amongst others. Ghana's Kasapreko Company Limited, owned by multi-millionaire tycoon Kwabena Adjei, has expanded its presence into the East African market, introducing popular brands such as Alomo Bitters, Alomo Gold, Kasapreko London Dry Gin, Black Rock Whisky, Carnival Strawberry, and Kalahari Bitters. Canary International Trading Company Limited, a subsidiary of the Canary Group of Companies specializing in food and beverage distribution, facilitated Kasapreko's expansion into Kenya. Speaking during the launch at the Ghana High Commission in Nairobi, Patrick Masope-Crabbe, founder of Canary Group of Companies, said that the firm will focus on a business-to-business (B2B) model in order to ensure that the Kasapreko products spread rapidly into the market to reach consumers. He mentioned that their goal is to collaborate with a wide range of alcohol distributors and establishments. Canary International currently operates in West Africa, East Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. Meanwhile, Francis Holly Adzah, the International Business Development Director at Kasapreko Company Limited, encouraged Kenyans and the East African community to embrace Ghanaian heritage by experiencing the diverse array of beverages offered by the company, Capital FM Kenya reported. He also mentioned that Kasapreko has leveraged research and development, incorporating cutting-edge technology with local and traditional recipes in the production process. Kasapreko stands as a beacon of quality, innovation, and heritage, boasting a state-of-the-art production facility, global export reach, and an iconic flagship product, Alomo Bitters, he added. Moved by the increasing demand for quality alcoholic products, Ghanaian businessman Kwabena Adjei founded Kasapreko Company Ltd in 1989 with the niche of producing herbal-based alcoholic products sourced locally. The company that started from a small garage of Dr Kwabena Adjei has developed into a state-of-the-art production facility with over 100 skus and exporting to 16 countries globally under various brands in the bitters, whisky, gin, liqueur, brandy, carbonated soft drinks and wine categories. Kasapreko currently generates annual revenues exceeding $35 million. Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The prestigious Ghana Quality Healthcare Awards for the year 2023, organized by STRATEGIC BRAND FOCUS AFRICA LTD and BRAND FOCUS AFRICA MAGAZINE, brought together luminaries from the healthcare industry to celebrate outstanding achievements in healthcare leadership, business excellence, and technological innovation. The esteemed awardees of the evening were as follows: 1. *Top Influential Healthcare Leadership Personality of the Year* - Indren Poovan, CEO of The Bank Hospital 2. *Healthcare CEO of the Year* - Indren Poovan, CEO of The Bank Hospital 3. *Industry Impact Award* Charles Kwamena Ackon 4. *Excellence in Business Award* - Dr. Samuel Amo-Mensah 5. *Top Influential Pharmaceutical Leadership Personality of the Year* - Gopal Vasu 6. *Multi-Specialty Hospital of the Year* The Bank Hospital 7. *Healthcare Technology Advancement Award* Mangel Klicks 8. *Medical Devices Supplier of the Year* - Mangel Klicks 9. *Community Impact Award of Excellence* SAM-J Hospital 10. *Excellence in Pharma: Packaging* - M&G Pharmaceuticals Ltd 11. *Pharma Brand of the Decade* M&G Pharmaceuticals Ltd 12. *Woman of the Year Award Healthcare* - Dr. Joyce Djabatey, CEO of C & J Medicare Hospital 13. *Excellence in Clinical Services* C&J Medicare Hospital 14. *Top Influential Healthcare Leadership Personality of the Year* - Indren Poovan, CEO of The Bank Hospital 15. *Top Influential Healthcare Leadership Personality of the Year* - Dr. Paul Sekyere-Nyantakyi, Chief Executive Officer of MDS-Lancet Laboratories Ghana Limited 16. *Best Use of Technology Award (Quality Service Delivery)* - MDS-Lancet Laboratory Ghana 17. *Outstanding Private Laboratory Service Provider Of the Year* MDS-Lancet Laboratory Ghana These awards recognize the dedication, innovation, and leadership within the Ghanaian healthcare sector, highlighting those who have made exceptional contributions to improving healthcare services and quality across the nation. The Ghana Quality Healthcare Awards underscore the importance of advancing healthcare excellence and innovation in the pursuit of better health outcomes for all. 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 Alan John Kwadwo Kyeremanten, a veteran member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), announced his resignation from the party on Monday, September 25, 2023. Adding to the intrigue, Kyeremanten declared his intention to run as an independent presidential candidate in the upcoming 2024 general election. His decision, rooted in allegations of electoral irregularities, unfair treatment, and bias during the NPP super delegates' conference, has ignited a nationwide debate about Ghana's entrenched political duopoly and the potential emergence of a third political force. While Kyeremanten's move has garnered both support and scepticism, it is not the first time Ghanaian politics has witnessed such defections and independent candidacies. Here, we revisit prominent politicians who ventured beyond their party lines or established their own political entities: 1. Nana Konadu Agyemang Rawlings The former First Lady and widow of former President Jerry John Rawlings departed from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in 2012, a party founded by her husband. She went on to make history as Ghana's first female presidential candidate in 2016 when she ran independently. Rawlings' decision to leave the NDC was influenced by her unsuccessful bid in the party's presidential primaries in 2008, leading her to establish the National Democratic Party (NDP) in 2012. However, her NDP garnered only 0.16% of the votes in the 2016 elections. 2. Obed Asamoah A former Chairman of the NDC, Obed Asamoah resigned from the party in 2006 after a loss in his second bid for the chairmanship. His departure was marked by disagreements with party leaders, citing concerns for his personal safety if he continued within the party. Subsequently, Asamoah, along with other political defectors, founded the Democratic Freedom Party (DFP) in 2006, where he served as the life patron. Nevertheless, Asamoah and the DFP members rejoined the NDC in 2011. 3. Paa Kwesi Nduom The former presidential candidate for the Convention People's Party (CPP) left the party in 2011 due to conflicts with leading party members. In January 2012, he established the Progressive People's Party (PPP). Despite contesting the 2012 and 2016 elections under the PPP banner, Nduom was unsuccessful on both occasions. 4. Augustus "Goosie" Tanoh A founding member of the National Democratic Congress party (NDC), Goosie Tanoh, departed from the party in 1999, citing concerns about corruption and disorganization. He founded the National Reform Party (NRP) and ran for president in 2000 but without success. However, Tanoh returned to the NDC in 2007/2008. In 2018, he reentered the NDC presidential race ahead of the 2020 elections. 5. Hassan Ayariga The 2012 Presidential Candidate of the People's National Convention (PNC), Hassan Ayariga, left the party in 2015 after losing the bid to Dr. Edward Mahama. He cited unfair treatment during the PNC's 2015 congress as the reason for his departure. Ayariga formed the All People's Congress (APC) in 2016 and ran for Ghana's presidency that year, though he was disqualified by the Electoral Commission (EC) for not meeting the presidential aspirant requirements. He also contested in the 2020 elections but secured only 0.05% of the total votes cast. . Charles Wereko-Brobby A founding member of the NPP, Charles Wereko-Brobby, known as Tarzan, established the United Ghana Movement (UGM) in 1996 after leaving the NPP due to internal party disagreements. Despite running for president under the UGM banner and receiving only 0.3% of the votes, he eventually returned to the NPP. In 2013, the NPP suspended Dr. Wereko-Brobby from the party following his vocal criticisms. These political shifts and independent candidacies have punctuated Ghana's political landscape over the years, highlighting the complexities of its multi-party system and the constant pursuit of new avenues for political influence and change. Ghanas leading digital news platform, GhanaWeb, in conjunction with the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, is embarking on an aggressive campaign which is geared towards ensuring that parliament passes comprehensive legislation to guide organ harvesting, organ donation, and organ transplantation in the country. 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 Member of Parliament(MP) for Bortianor-Ngleshie-Amanfro, Sylvester Tetteh has admonished the Council of Elders of the ruling New Patriotic Party(NPP) in the Ashanti Region to bring their Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Bosiako, to order. The Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Bosiako, popularly called 'Chairman Wontumi', and the former NPP presidential hopeful Alan Kyerematen seem to be picking a fight. The former ordered party members and supporters in his Region to remove all posters, flyers and paraphenalia belonging to Alan from the party's offices following the latter's resignation from the NPP. Order Once he has forfeited his membership, it is just right and fair that these items are removed from our offices. In view of Hon. Alan Kyerematens resignation from the party, all his posters, banners, flyers and paraphernalia at our party offices in all the constituencies must be removed with immediate effect, Chairman Wontumi said in a memo. Reacting to order during an interview on UTV, Alan Kyerematen warned Chairman Wontumi to stop misbehaving towards him. Who brought Wontumi to the party? Today, Wontumi is going around making all kinds of noise. If he has someone to thank, it should be Alan Kyerematen. Im the one who held his hands to the party. Who is Wontumi? There are some things we should not be saying but we have been quiet for too long. I brought Wontumi to the NPP and I brought him to the party for a good reason. He was a small-time businessman. Today, when we are talking about party issues, Wontumi is the one dictating, he said. Alan went ahead to recount how he vouched for Chairman Wontumi to become the Regional Chairman of the party and the investments he's made in the latter's political career. I held his hand and made him a Chairman...after he became Chairman, he was always following me, he was more than a Chief campaigner...I am saying this to praise because he was smart enough to see that Alan was the one who could guide him into politics. But he has to be careful with the things he has been doing for the sake of the future. If someone helps you become somebody dont take the person for granted. Alan is a Liar Alan's revelations didn't sink down well with Chairman Wontumi who clapped back saying Alan lied about making me constituency Chairman and regional Chairman. "Mr. Kyerematens claims of introducing Chairman Wontumi to the political limelight, and making him Constituency Chairman and subsequently, Ashanti Regional Chairman are palpable falsehoods and must be treated with the contempt they deserve," his Special Assistant, Andy Owusu, said categorically in a press statement. Bring Chairman Wontumi To Order Hon. Sylvester Tetteh has warned Chairman Wontumi to stop his verbal attacks on Alan Kyerematen. "He should be careful of his utterances because he is a leader and many people will follow his actions. If you sit on TV and ridicule a leader like Alan, Alan has a family and looking at the work he's done in this country, if he says he is going independent, no problem; identify your people who are party people following him and bring them closer to the elephant," he said on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo". "The Regional Council of Elders must talk to him. They should really talk to him to watch his utterances," he exclaimed. Watch video The Sins of Alan In an interview on his own TV network (September 26), Wontumi TV, Chairman Wontumi further listed what he termed the 'sins' of Alan Kyerematen against the NPP. First, he said it is "about fear that is why Alan Kyerematen has left the party, sometime back, he claimed that Akufo-Addo was old, the sole reason he should be allowed to contest for the presidency". "Fortunately, or unfortunately, now he is also grown, because at that time, Akufo-Addo was 70 years old, and now he is also 70 years old. Now, you are grown, Alan. You are 70. He has grown and turned into a butterfly," Wontumi stressed. Also, he talked about Alan being ungrateful to the NPP saying, "the party gave you a position for you to be able to take care of your wife and children. Now, all of you understand English even better than me. Your wife speaks better English than me now; she speaks it more fluently than Wontumi...Now, NDC members are speaking for you." 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 NPP Member of Parliament for Bortianor-Ngleshie-Amanfro, Sylvester Tetteh has issued a caustic warning to the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the party, Bernard Antwi Bosiako alias Chairman Wontumi to desist from verbally abusing Alan Kyerematen following the latter's exit from the party. Alan Kyerematen has quit the New Patriotic Party to "contest for the high office of the President of the Republic of Ghana as an independent presidential candidate". He cited various reasons for his decision, paramount among them is the New Patriotic Party has proven his "services and contributions to the Party are not appreciated, and that my continuous stay in the Party will create further tension and division, which is an exact replay of circumstances that led to my decision to resign from the Party in 2008". He also accused the NPP of neglecting its principles saying "I joined the New Patriotic Party at the very beginning of its establishment as a Founding Member, believing in its core values and the long-standing traditions of its antecedents, predicated on fairness, equity, probity, accountability, and transparency" but "the NPP as it exists now has very little resemblance to the Party that I joined in 1992 and helped to nurture. The Party has been hijacked by a selected group of Party leaders and elders, government appointees, 'behind the curtain power brokers. He said these at a press conference in Accra on Monday, September 25. Order To Remove Alan's Posters Chairman Wontumi, following Alan's announcement, has been sharing his thoughts on the latter's resignation. First, he ordered the party members and supporters in his Region to immediately remove anything that bears the identity of Alan Kyerematen from their offices. Once he has forfeited his membership, it is just right and fair that these items are removed from our offices, Chairman Wontumi said in a statement. In view of Hon. Alan Kyerematens resignation from the party, all his posters, banners, flyers and paraphernalia at our party offices in all the constituencies must be removed with immediate effect, he stated in a memo. He also rebuked Alan saying he is ungrateful to the party after it's made him a political colossus. Chairman Wontumi listed Alan's appointment as Ambassador to the US, Trade Minister under John Agyekum Kufuor government and subsequently holding the same portfolio under the current government till his resignation in January 2023. " . . the party gave you a position for you to be able to take care of your wife and children. Now, all of you understand English even better than me. Your wife speaks better English than me now; she speaks it more fluently than Wontumi," he commented. You're Warned! The Ashanti Regional Chairman's utterances about Alan has sparked agitations with Hon. Sylvester Tetteh warning him to redirect his focus from the former Trade Minister and presidential aspirant. "When you are a Chairman in the Ashanti Region, your task is not as big as the one in North-East or Volta Region but the danger is that when our opponent keeps increasing to the extent that the NDC is making almost 700,000 votes in the Ashanti Region, it means you are losing your grip in the Region. Notwithstanding the fact that you are winning the parliamentary seat but the popular vote, we are losing them. "If I were him, I would be rather careful because more of Alan's family members are based in the Ashanti Region, so you ridiculing Alan will either push his family members away from the party or decide to stay in the party. If they leave, it will go against you when NDC is making almost 700,000 votes in your Region which is supposed to be a Region that cancel ten Regions. So, you should be worried because Ashanti Region is now the world bank of the NDC more than the Volta Region," he cautioned the Regional Chairman on Peace FM's morning show "Kokrokoo". "Where will your ridiculing him and making mockery of him take you?", he queried. 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 Bernard Allotey Jacobs says Alan Kyerematen, who has resigned from the New Patriotic Party, is treading on dangerous ground. According to Allotey Jacobs, the decision by Alan to contest as independent candidate and his exit from the NPP will go against him. "He is leading himself to doom," he said. He explained that, "politics is by numbers. If you don't touch base with the people, forget it if you want any position. When you are also in a party and you don't help those following you economically, forget it" and, to him, Alan doesn't command the numbers. The former NDC Central Regional Chairman noted that those supporting Alan's independent candidacy are only giving him false hope. As an experienced politician who once held the position of a Propaganda Secretary for his former political party, Allotey warned that the former Trade Minister will feel the heat after the New Patriotic Party's presidential race when the party elects its flagbearer. His obvious choice of flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party being Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Allotey Jacobs cautioned Alan Kyerematen against competing with Dr. Bawumia in the 2024 elections. "Don't underestimate Bawumia's flagbearership. Don't take to chance," he stated. He advised the two-time Trade Minister and former Ambassador to United States to reconsider his decision, stressing "the fact is that when you are not close to the power or the powers that be, forget it; you are nobody!" 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 A presidential hopeful of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, will next week take his Message of Hope to the Ashanti Region, the partys stronghold, where he is expected to rally support for his flagbearership ambition, come November 4, 2023. The Cambridge University trained Economist who is fast permeating through the hearts of delegates of the NPP and in the process, changing the narrative as far as the partys flagbearership race in concerned, will on Monday, October 2 to Tuesday, October 3, 2023, meet with specialized group of delegates of the UP tradition at different locations in the region. He will on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, scale up the interaction by meeting Polling Station Executives, Electoral Area Coordinators, and Constituency Executives at a forum to be held in Kumasi. The forum will provide a platform for Dr. Akoto, a former two-term Member of Parliament for Kwadaso constituency, to further convince the delegates as the being best candidate who can retain power for the party and address the myriads of welfare challenges confronting them. The homecoming event will also afford the delegates the opportunity to ask Dr. Akoto questions pertaining to the forward march of the party, especially, at a time where unity in the party has been questioned by political analysts. Dr. Akoto, who has worked in the UN Systems for more than 18 years will cap his Ashanti Regional tour with radio station interviews on Thursday, October 5, and Friday, October 6, 2023, respectively. Touted as Adwumawura (workaholic) by Ghanaian farmers, the former Minister of Food and Agriculture who is number three (3) on the ballot paper will then move to the Northern Region where he will hold a similar exercise. From the Northern Region, Dr. Akoto will also scale up his visits to the Bono and Ahafo regions, the Eastern and finally to the Greater Accra Regions. Meanwhile, his team are on the grounds working tirelessly to ensure that he secures victory in the partys flagbearership race. The astute politician will on November 4, 2023, lock horns with three other candidates for the NPP presidential primary. He placed 4th in the Special Delegates Conference held on Saturday, August 26, 2023, surprising many political pundits and pollsters. Over 210,000 party delegates are expected to exercise their franchise in the much-publicized November 4, 2023 Presidential Primary of the NPP. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The government is working on a policy framework of using electric vehicles for public transport in Ghana, Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia has said. Bawumia says this will drastically reduce the cost of transportation as the major components of the cost is fuel and spare parts and also reduce carbon emission. Sharing the news on Facebook after visiting SolarTaxi, wholly owned Ghanaian assembler of electric vehicles in Accra on Wednesday (27 September), Bawumia expressed satisfaction after taking a ride on one of the companys electric buses which could travel over 200 kilometres without charging the batteries. He further appealed to government-owned transport firms in Ghana to take advantage of the companys collateral free package to buy electric buses from the firm. I paid a visit to a start-up, SolarTaxi, a wholly owned Ghanaian assembler of electric vehicles and the third largest electric vehicle assembler in Africa. They manufacture motorcycles, cars, and buses. It was a pleasure to take a ride in one of their buses which can travel from Accra to Kumasi without need for a recharge of the batteries. They are also able to convert existing internal combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles. I made the point that electric vehicles are the future and Government is working on a policy framework of using electric vehicles for public transport in Ghana. This will drastically reduce the cost of transportation as the major components of the cost is fuel and spare parts. It will also reduce carbon emissions. Solar Taxi, through its bankers are also providing financing for its motorcycles, cars and buses without collateral. All they require is your GhanaCard ID and they will give you a vehicle which you can pay for over time. The average age of people working for Solar Taxi is 26 and 90% of their engineers are female. I asked Metro Mass, STC and Ayalolo to take advantage of the opportunity to acquire more buses, Bawumia said. 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 Independent Presidential Candidate, Jacob Osei Yeboah aka. JOY 2012 says politicians are full of lies and deceit to lure the masses to vote. He believes their attitudes have earned them a relationship with the devil after linking Alan Kyerematens resignation from the New Patriotic Party as an evil plot. After the devil, those who lie more are political parties . . . I will deliver Alan from the party evils and make him non-partisan, Jacob Osei Yeboah said in an interview with NEAT FMs morning show, 'Ghana Montie'. He is of the view that politicians have failed the country and only amassing wealth and condoning bad deeds. Listen to the full interview below 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 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 software was tested on a flock of Greylag Geese located in Austria. Credit: S Kleindorfer (Konrad Lorenz Research Centre for Behaviour and Cognition, University of Vienna) Facial recognition software used to study the social behavior of individual Greylag Geese in Europe will soon be used to monitor one of the rarest geese in the world, the Cape Barren Goose in South Australia. The technology was used to assess how each bird responds to images of themselves, other flock mates or partners and researchers from the University of Vienna and Flinders University say it could be used by other scientists or in citizen science apps around the world to monitor and record endangered wildlife or even to promote the welfare of animals in captivity. Flinders BirdLab leaders Professor Sonia Kleindorfer and Dr. Diane Colombelli-Negrel, worked on the software with support from the University of Vienna, University of Veterinary Medicine in Austria and the Konrad Lorenz Research Centre for Behavior and Cognition. The program tested each goose face with life size 2D images of members of the Greylag Goose flock, originally started by the founding father of animal behavior, Austrian scientist Konrad Lorenz in the 1950s. With 97% accuracy, each goose face could be correctly assigned within a photo library containing 6000 possible matches, researchers say in a new article in Journal of Ornithology. "Next the team placed life-sized photos in a grassy field to see whether geese behave differently to each imagewhich they do," says Professor Kleindorfer, who founded Flinders University's BirdLab 20 years ago and now directs the Konrad Lorenz Research Centre, a core facility at the University of Vienna in Austria. Examples of A. a normalized input image and B. its detail-enhanced version used for identification. Credit: S Kleindorf, University of Vienna "The geese approached the photo of their partner more quickly, gave friendly contact calls and fed for longer. In contrast, when they saw a picture of themselvesa goose they had never seen beforethey hissed and took longer to approach food, if they fed at all." The latest findings into visual cues of individuality not only gives insights into the birds' social structure but illustrate how the software to monitor individual faces or body patterns can be monitored using photographs collected in the fieldfor animal numbers and movementsin conservation efforts. "Animal welfare could also be enhanced through the use of photographs in captivity," says Flinders University's Dr. Colombelli-Negrel, from the College of Science and Engineering. "For example, a photo might reduce the sense of isolation in a social species held in captivity, or serve as a 'soft introduction' before a new animal is introduced into an enclosure, although care should be given to avoid photos of a deceased relative, ally or dominant animal in the group. "Perhaps captive individuals in group-living species express reduced anxiety when exposed to a photograph of an unknown and smaller non-specific," she adds. Zoologist Konrad Lorenz, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine with Nikolas Tinbergen and Karl von Frisch in 1973, used the behavior of the Greylag Goose to found the discipline of animal behavior. More information: Sonia Kleindorfer et al, Cues to individuality in Greylag Goose faces: algorithmic discrimination and behavioral field tests, Journal of Ornithology (2023). DOI: 10.1007/s10336-023-02113-4 Journal information: Journal of Ornithology 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 gas conversion process by an electrode-based enzymatic reaction. Credit: Lemaire/Belhamri/Wagner, Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology Humans continuously emits greenhouse gases, worsening global warming. For example, carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) accumulates dramatically over the years and is chemically very stable. Yet, some microbes capture CO 2 using highly efficient enzymes. Scientists from the Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology in Bremen together with the Universities of Geneva and Radboud isolated one of these enzymes. When the enzyme was electronically branched on an electrode, they observed the conversion of CO 2 to formate with perfect efficiency. This phenomenon will inspire new CO 2 -fixation systems because of its remarkable directionality and rates. The results are now published in Angewandte Chemie. Seeking microorganisms that efficiently capture the greenhouse gas CO 2 "The enzymes employed by the microorganisms represent a fantastic playground for scientists as they allow highly specific reactions at fast rates," says Tristan Wagner, head of the Max Planck Re-search Group Microbial Metabolism at the Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology (MPIMM). Some of these enzymes have an interesting way of capturing CO 2 : They transform it into formate, a stable and safe compound that can be used to store energy or to synthesize various molecules for industrial or pharmaceutical purposes. One example is Methermicoccus shengliensis, a methanogen (a microbe producing methane) isolated from an oilfield and growing at 50 C. It has been cultivated and studied over the past years by Julia Kurth and Cornelia Welte at Radboud University in the Netherlands. At the Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology, Olivier Lemaire, Melissa Belhamri and Tristan Wagner dissected the microbe to find its CO 2 -capturing enzyme and measure how fast and efficiently it can transform CO 2 . A CO 2 -converting enzyme with great potential The Max Planck-scientists undertook the challenging task to isolate the microbial enzyme. "Since we knew that such enzymes are sensitive to oxygen, we had to work inside an anaerobic tent devoid of ambient air to separate it from the other proteinsquite complicated, but we succeeded," says Olivier Lemaire. Once isolated, the scientists characterized the enzyme's properties. They showed that it efficiently generates formate from CO 2 but performs the reverse reaction at very slow rates and poor yield. "Similar enzymes belonging to the family of formate dehydrogenases are well known to operate in both directions, but we showed that the enzyme from Methermicoccus shengliensis is nearly unidirectional and could not efficiently convert the formate back into CO 2 ," reports Melissa Belhamri. "We were quite thrilled by this phenomenon, occurring only in the absence of oxygen," she adds. "Since the formate generated from CO 2 -fixation cannot be transformed back and therefore accumulates, such a system would be a highly interesting candidate for CO 2 -capture, especially if we could branch it on an electrode," Tristan Wagner points out. The advantage of that: With the enzyme naturally or chemically attached to an electrode, the "energy" required to capture the CO 2 will be directly delivered by the electrode, without electric current loss or the need for expensive or toxic chemical compounds as relays. Consequently, the enzyme-bound electrodes are efficient and attractive systems for gas conversion procedures. Thus, the purified enzyme was sent to the University of Geneva to set up an electrode-based CO 2 -capture system. Composition and molecular weight of the purified MsFmd sample. A. SDS PAGE profile of the purified MsFmd complex. B. Native PAGE profile of the complex. The estimated molecular weight of the bands, calculated based on the ladder, is indicated. C. Determination of the molecular weight of MsFmd by size exclusion chromatography. The calibration curve was determined with a calibration kit (GE Healthcare). The theoretical (calculated) molecular weight of the protein standards are indicated. Theoretical and calculated molecular weight are shown as white and gray dots, respectively. Red dots show the molecular weight determined during two distinct purification process. The MsFmd size is averaged from these two experiments. Credit: Angewandte Chemie International Edition (2023). DOI: 10.1002/anie.202311981 Electricity-based gas conversion Selmihan Sahin and Ross Milton from the University of Geneva are specialists in electrochemistry. They use electrodes connected to electric current to perform chemical reactions. The electrode-based formate generation from CO 2 often requires polluting and rare metals, and that is why they tried to replace these metals with the enzyme extracted in the group of Tristan Wagner at the MPIMM. The procedure of enzyme binding on an electrode is not always as efficient as expected, but the enzyme from Wagner's research group has specific characteristics that could facilitate the process. The scientists from Switzerland managed to fix the enzyme on a graphite electrode, where it performed the gas conversion. The measured rates were comparable to those obtained with classic formate dehydrogenases. "The strength of this biological system coupled to the electrode lies in its efficiency in transferring the electrons from the electricity towards CO 2 transformation," highlights Lemaire. Sahin and Milton also confirmed that the system performs the reverse reaction poorly, as previously observed in the reaction tube. Consequently, the modified electrode continuously converted the greenhouse gas to formate without any detectable side-products generated or electric current loss. Towards a new solution for atmospheric CO 2 utilization The collaborative work provides a new molecular tool to the scientific community: An enzyme converting CO 2 by transferring electricity with high efficiency. Renewable green energy (e.g., wind or solar) could provide electricity to the electrode-based system that would turn CO 2 into formate, a molecule directly usable for applications or to store energy. "Before us, no one ever tried to study an enzyme from such a methanogen for an electrode-based gas conversion," says Tristan Wagner. "Yet, methanogens are natural outstanding gas converters." As powerful as they could be, employing enzymes for large-scale processes would also require similar-scale enzyme production systems, a considerable investment. Therefore, while the discovered strategy could, in theory, significantly improve CO 2 transformation, a deep knowledge of the enzyme mechanism is necessary before its application, and the team of researchers will now have to dissect in depth the molecular secrets of the reaction. 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 Evidence is mounting that climate change is triggering biodiversity loss, changing community composition and ecosystem functions. However, the intricate mechanisms underpinning ecological processes remain an enigma, motivating researchers to dissect the intricate web of interactions. Recently, in a paper published in Science China Life Sciences, a Chinese team from Peking University focused on resource-use strategies, revealing how species with different resource-use strategies would respond to climate change, and how the responses may influence community-level productivity. "We usually thought more species would mean more productivity. But what we're seeing here is that species richness and functional diversity declined significantly while productivity did not significantly decline," said Professor Wang, the lead researcher in the study. To dive into the reason behind this puzzle, the team classified species into different functional types according to plant functional traits. Resource-acquisitive plants are featured by high leaf nutrient content, large specific leaf area, and a low investment on leaf structure. In contrast, resource-conservative plant species exhibited a contrasting array of attributes. As the climate in the studied grassland became drier and warmer, resource-acquisitive plants responded rapidly to limited water and declined their species richness and functional diversity, leading to community-level diversity decreased. In the meanwhile, resource-conservative plants, the dominating species in this grassland community, remained relatively stable, contributing to the stable productivity. The results line up with what scientists have hypothesized beforethat community-level productivity is determined by dominant species and insensitive to the decline of less abundant species. Nonetheless, Professor Wang throws in a curveball of caution, "Our findings do not mean that rare species do not matter. We can't assume that ecosystem productivity will always stay stable if the climate keeps getting warmer and drier. A continuous loss of diversity could tip the balance." This research enriches our understanding of plant dynamics in the face of climate change, offering insights into the nuanced interplay between resource strategies and ecological functions. More information: Heying Jing et al, Climate change filtered out resource-acquisitive plants in a temperate grassland in Inner Mongolia, China, Science China Life Sciences (2023). DOI: 10.1007/s11427-022-2338-1 Journal information: Science China Life 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: Simulation results of tracking NPs with a size of 100 nm under laminar effect. (A) Flow velocity diagrams of xy planes (vertical view, the positive direction of z axis facing outward) under stirring: z = 0.03 m; z = 0 m and z = 0.03 m. (B) Trajectory diagrams of NPs (vertical view, the positive direction of z axis facing outward) in 500 s. (C) Proportion of NP (z > 0) distribution in each region. (D) Proportion of NP (z < 0) distribution in each region. Credit: Science Advances (2023). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi9108 Stirring can allow the dispersion of substances evenly in liquid. Einstein's tea leaf paradox is a concept that shows how tea leaves can concentrate in a doughnut shape through a secondary flow effect during stirring. In a new study published in Science Advances, Zehui Zhang and colleagues in physics and engineering in China, demonstrated the Einstein's tea leaf paradox (abbreviated as ETLP) induced concentration in nanofluids. They accomplished this by simulating the nanoparticle trajectory under stirring to obtain a grayscale analysis of nanofluids under stirring and standing processes. The team applied the localized concentration to achieve ultrafast aggregation of gold nanoparticles to form gold aerogels. They adjusted the gold aerogels from about 10 to 200 nm and developed a constituent of extremely high purity and crystallinity to reveal potential applications in photocatalysis and surface-enhanced Raman scattering. Einstein's tea leaf paradox In 1926, Albert Einstein described a simple experimental observation while stirring tea, where the leaves followed a spiral trajectory towards the center of the cup. Accordingly, the gathering of tea leaves under stirring due to the secondary flow is useful to collect microscale particles in dispersion systems. Since nanoparticles with better stability usually move together with the fluid due to Brownian motion, during Einstein's tea leaf paradox, the flow velocity paradox induced laminar flows, driving the localized concentration or aggregation of colloidal nanoparticles inside the thin flow. Materials scientists have focused on metal aerogels such as gold, in catalysis, absorption, and device biocompatibility applications, as well as in electrochemistry. Typically, three main routes can be used to prepare metal aerogels. In this work, Zhang and colleagues showed the localized aggregation of gold nanoparticles and the regulation of the microstructures of gold aerogels. The Einstein's tea leaf paradox-induced localized aggregation of metal particles pave the way to other types of gels or aerogel production. Hypothetical model and experimental demonstration of ETLP. (A) Schematic diagram of NP distribution under ETLP effect. The right side are the supposed sectional views of laminar flows and the distribution of NPs in the left half of a beaker. (B) The grayscale curve (vertical view), front-view photo, and vertical-view photo of SiO 2 dispersion while stirring. (C) The photos (left) and corresponding gray scale (right) of the SiO 2 dispersion from the front view. Five photos were taken continuously every 3 s, while stirring was started at the beginning and stopped at the eighth second. Credit: Science Advances (2023). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi9108 Demonstrating the protocol in the nanofield The scientists studied the relationship between nanoparticle distribution and flow velocity in nanofluids by using COMSOL Multiphysics software to recreate the movement of nanoparticles in laminar flow under stirring. They monitored the nanoparticle trajectory after stirring for 500 seconds, where the nanoparticles in the middle moved faster with a longer trajectory. The high motion frequency and amplitude of the nanoparticles in the high-velocity regions promoted the encounters of nanoparticles to make them more concentrated or crosslinked. Based on the outcomes, Zhang and team assumed that the motion of nanoparticles in nanofluids would follow the ETLP (Einstein's tea leaf paradox) law. To demonstrate the ETLP law at the nanoscale, the team dispersed the 50 nm spherical silicon dioxide nanoparticles in deionized water as a nanofluid. The nanoparticles exhibited macroscopic ETLP with localized concentration effects in nanofluids. Assemble-disassemble process in HAuCl 4 solution. (A) The color change of HAuCl 4 solution when heated and cooled down: HAuCl 4 solution heated at 30, 50, and 80C for 1 hour, respectively, and then cooled down to 10C. (B) Supposed mechanism of Au ion cluster construction: [AuCl 4 ] may be dechlorinated and cochlorinated to form large Au ion clusters. (C) h-h graph converted from fig. S10A (UV-Vis of HAuCl 4 solution was measured from 80C to room temperature continuously four times). (D) Raman shift of 2.5% HAuCl 4 solution during heating and cooling processes. a.u., arbitrary units. (E) FTIR spectra of 10% HAuCl 4 solution measured continuously three times from 80C to room temperature. (F) The whole preparation process. The combination of [AuCl 4 ] could be used to control the skeleton size of GAs. Credit: Science Advances (2023). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi9108 Developing gaseous aerogels The research team prepared a locally aggregated gold gel by reducing gold ion clusters through Einstein's tea leaf paradox process. They formed chloroauric acid (HAuCl 4 ) solution with the gold clusters and dried the constituents at room temperature or under a heating source of light for transmission electron microscopy observations. Under light heating, the particles gathered into clusters, which the team further observed with measurements and analysis. These included conductivity and pH value of the gold solution measured during the heating and cooling processes. By regulating the temperature of the precursor solution, the researchers prepared three gold aerogel samples through stirring within 20 minutes. However, without stirring, there was no obvious gel formation in gold solution, even after 24 hours and at 80C. Characterization and applications of gold nanoparticles Zhang and colleagues analyzed the skeleton microstructure of the aerogels by using small angle X-ray scattering, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The size of gold particles in the aerogel were notably different. Using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, the scientists detected the elemental composition of three samples. Aside from carbon from a source of contamination, they observed only gold in the composition of the aerogels. The preparation process had a significant time-preserving quality, forming gold aerogels with a large range of microstructure sizes and high purity. Photographs and preparation process of GAs. (A) Photos of GAs. (B) ETLP-induced aggregation of GA3: dispersed HAuCl 4 solution, HAuCl 4 solution after adding the reluctance, brown particles precipitated in the sol, a small gel aggregated from brown particles, the grown gel with larger size, while the color of solution turned light notably, and the Au gel obtained. Credit: Science Advances (2023). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi9108 Outlook In this way, Zehui Zhang and team confirmed the Einstein's teal leaf paradox (ETLP) to be applicable to nanofluids with an unexpectedly localized aggregation effect to form gold aerogels by simply stirring. The scientists constructed gold ion clusters of different sizes by regulating the temperature of chloroauric acid. They completed the experiments with ETLP-driven aggregation effects and carbon dioxide drying to develop aerogels with varying skeleton sizes, with a capacity for future aerogels to be prepared similarly. More information: Zehui Zhang et al, Einstein's tea leaf paradox induced localized aggregation of nanoparticles and their conversion to gold aerogels, Science Advances (2023). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi9108 Journal information: Science Advances 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: Artistic recreation of the use of Mesolithic baskets by a group of hunter-gatherers in the Cueva de los Murcielagos de Albunol. Credit: Drawing by Moises Belilty Molinos, with scientific supervision of Francisco Martinez-Sevilla and Maria Herrero-Otal A team of scientists, led by researchers from the Universidad de Alcala (UAH) and the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona (UAB), has discovered and analyzed the first direct evidence of basketry among hunter-gatherer societies and early farmers in southern Europe, (9,500 and 6,200 years ago), in the Cueva de los Murcielagos of Albunol (Granada, Spain). This site is one of the most emblematic archaeological sites of prehistoric times in the Iberian Peninsula due to the unique preservation of organic materials found there. The study has been published in Science Advances. The work analyzes 76 objects made of organic materials (wood, reed and esparto) discovered during 19th century mining activities in the Granada cave. The researchers studied the raw materials and technology and carried out carbon-14 dating, which revealed that the set dates to the early and middle Holocene period, between 9,500 and 6,200 years ago. This is the first direct evidence of basketry made by Mesolithic hunter-gatherer societies in southern Europe and a unique set of other organic tools associated with early Neolithic farming communities, such as sandals and a wooden mace. As researcher of the Prehistory Department of the University of Alcala Francisco Martinez Sevilla explains, "the new dating of the esparto baskets from the Cueva de los Murcielagos of Albunol opens a window of opportunity to understanding the last hunter-gatherer societies of the early Holocene." "The quality and technological complexity of the basketry makes us question the simplistic assumptions we have about human communities prior to the arrival of agriculture in southern Europe. This work and the project that is being developed places the Cueva de los Murcielagos as a unique site in Europe to study the organic materials of prehistoric populations." Oldest Mesolithic baskets in southern Europe, 9,500 years old (left), and wooden mace and esparto sandals, dating back to the Neolithic 6,200 years ago (right). Credit: MUTERMUR Project Cueva de los Murcielagos is located on the coast of Granada, to the south of the Sierra Nevada and 2 kilometers from the town of Albunol. The cave opens on the right side of the Barranco de las Angosturas, at an altitude of 450 meters above sea level and about 7 kilometers from the current coastline. It is one of the most emblematic prehistoric archaeological sites of the Iberian Peninsula due to the rare preservation of organic materials, which until this study had only been attributed to the Neolithic. The objects made of perishable materials were discovered by the mining activities of the 19th century and were documented and recovered by Manuel de Gongora y Martinez, later becoming part of the first collections of the National Archaeological Museum of Madrid. As detailed by Maria Herrero Otal, co-author of the work and researcher at the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, "The esparto grass objects from Cueva de los Murcielagos are the oldest and best-preserved set of plant fiber materials in southern Europe so far known." "The technological diversity and the treatment of the raw material documented demonstrates the ability of prehistoric communities to master this type of craftsmanship, at least since 9,500 years ago, in the Mesolithic period. Only one type of technique related to hunter-gatherers has been identified, while the typological, technological and treatment range of esparto grass was extended during the Neolithic from 7,200 to 6,200 years before the present." The work is part of the project "De los museos al territorio: actualizando el estudio de la Cueva de los Murcielagos de Albunol (Granada)" (MUTERMUR). The objective of this project is the holistic study of the site and its material record, applying the latest archaeometric techniques and generating quality scientific data. The project also included the collaboration of the National Archaeological Museum, the Archaeological and Ethnological Museum of Granada, the City Council of Albunol and the owners of the cave. "The results of this work and the finding of the oldest basketry in southern Europe give more meaning, if possible, to the phrase written by Manuel de Gongora in his work Prehistoric Antiquities of Andalusia (1868): 'the now forever famous Cueva de los Murcielagos'," the authors say. More information: Francisco Martinez-Sevilla et al, The earliest basketry in southern Europe: Hunter-gatherer and farmer plant-based technology in Cueva de los Murcielagos (Albunol), Science Advances (2023). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi3055 Journal information: Science Advances This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: General view of the Sant Antoni de la Vespa deposit during the extraction of one of the Garumbatitan specimens. Credit: GBE-UNED A new study describes a new sauropod dinosaur that lived in the Iberian Peninsula 122 million years ago. This new species of dinosaur, Garumbatitan morellensis, was described from remains discovered in Morella (Castello, Spain) and made it possible to expand the diversity of dinosaurs known in one of the best fossil records from the Early Cretaceous in Europe. The sedimentary deposits that emerge in the region of Els Ports de Morella (Spain) contain an abundant record of dinosaurs from the Early Cretaceous, around 122 million years old. In particular, some of the first dinosaur remains found in Spain were discovered in the Morella region. In recent years, numerous fossils of Mesozoic vertebrates have been found in the vicinity of this location, some of which are extremely relevant, including an important collection of ornithopod dinosaurs, including Morelladon beltrani, and sauropod dinosaurs. This discovery, by a team of Portuguese and Spanish paleontologists, is described in a paper now published in the prestigious Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society. The new dinosaur species, which has been called Garumbatitan morellensis, belongs to the sauropod group, which is made up of quadrupedal herbivorous dinosaurs with long necks and tails that could reach colossal dimensions. The remains of this new dinosaur were found and excavated in the sediments that emerge in the Morella locality in 2005 and 2008 in the Sant Antoni de la Vespa fossil-site. In this deposit, one of the largest concentrations of sauropod dinosaur remains from the European Lower Cretaceous was recognized, and in which elements of at least four individuals were identified, three of which belonged to this new species. Sant Antoni de la Vespa thus constitutes one of the key locations for the study of dinosaur faunas in Spain during this period. General view of the Sant Antoni de la Vespa deposit during the extraction of one of the Garumbatitan specimens. Credit: GBE-UNED "One of the individuals we found stands out for its large size, with vertebrae more than one meter wide, and a femur that could reach two meters in length. We found two almost complete and articulated feet in this deposit, which is particularly rare in the geological record," says Pedro Mocho, leader of this study, paleontologist of Instituto Dom Luiz, Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon (Portugal). The article now published presents a detailed description of the fossil remains found in Sant Antoni de la Vespa, identifying a set of anatomical characteristics different from other sauropod dinosaurs. Garumbatitan is characterized by the unique morphology of the femur (the upper bone of the leg) and the elements that form the foot. The femur presents a morphology similar to the femora of more modern sauropods from the Late Cretaceous. This study also analyzes the kinship relationships of Garumbatitan morellensis and other sauropod dinosaurs from the Early Cretaceous of the Iberian Peninsula. Garumbatitan is one of the most primitive members of a group of sauropods called Somphospondyli, which corresponds to one of the most diverse and abundant groups during the Cretaceous and which became extinct at the end of the Mesozoic. Reconstruction of the life appearance of Garumbatitan morellensis. Credit: Grup Guix Finally, this study highlights the enormous complexity of the evolutionary history of sauropods from the European Cretaceous, in particular, from the Iberian Peninsula, with species related to lineages present in Asia and North America, as well as some groups related to forms from the African continent. These results suggest the existence of periods of faunal dispersal between these continents. The future restoration of all fossil materials found in this deposit will add important information to understand the initial evolution of this group of sauropods that dominated dinosaur faunas during the last million years of the Mesozoic era. "Our study highlights the enormous complexity of the evolutionary history of sauropods from the European Cretaceousin particular, from the Iberian Peninsula, with species related to lineages present in Asia and North America, as well as some groups related to forms from the African continent. Our results suggest the existence of periods of faunal dispersal between these continents," explains Pedro Mocho. Kinship relationships of Garumbatitan morellensis with some of the most relevant sauropods and bone remains of Garumbatitan morellensis. Credit: GBE-UNED "The future restoration of all fossil materials found in this deposit will add important information to understand the initial evolution of this group of sauropods that dominated dinosaur faunas during the last million years of the Mesozoic era," adds Francisco Ortega, co-author of this study, Grupo de Biologia Evolutiva of the Universidad Nacional de Educacion a Distancia (UNED, Spain). The name of the new species, Garumbatitan morellensis, contains a double reference. On the one hand, Garumbatitan means "the giant of Garumba," as this specimen was found at the base of Mola de la Garumba, one of the highest reliefs in the Els Ports region. On the other hand, the specific name morellensis refers to the location where the deposit is located, Morella. The fossil remains of Garumbatitan morellensis form part of one of the largest collections of fossil vertebrates from the Iberian Mesozoic deposited at the Temps Museum of Dinosaurs in Morella and which forms part of the Valencian Community Museum Network. More information: Pedro Mocho et al, New sauropod dinosaur from the Lower Cretaceous of Morella (Spain) provides new insights on the evolutionary history of Iberian somphospondylan titanosauriforms, Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society (2023). DOI: 10.1093/zoolinnean/zlad124 Journal information: Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society 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 Extra help from another generation alone doesn't help motherchild closeness or reduce motherchild conflict, researchers have found. Researchers who examined information from a sample of mothers could find no statistical link between their children spending time with grandparents at age three and better social and emotional development when they were seven, or better maternal well-being and mother-child relationship at age three. The academics have called for more investment in child and maternal mental health and well-being in early childhood. Parents who took part in the study indicated grandparents were their primary source of childcare, and they had less other support. The paper is published in the journal Early Child Development and Care. The study was carried out by Nevra Ats Akyol, from Sivas Cumhuriyet University, Turkey, Derya Atalan Ergin, from Cappadocia University, Turkey, and Angeliki Kallitsoglou, from the University of Exeter. The researchers examined information from 1,495 mothers and their children. The findings showed that time spent in the care of grandparents for at least six months was not significantly associated with better maternal mental health and well-being and mother-child relationship, or better social and emotional outcomes for children when they were seven. The study, which used data from the Millennium Cohort Study, shows that poor maternal well-being at age three predicted poor child social and emotional outcomes at age seven. A total of 39.3% of the children (587), spent between 1 to 10 hours with their grandparents, 33.7%, (505) spent between 11 and 20 hours, and 27%, (403), spent above 21 hours. The Kessler Screening Scale for Psychological Distress was used to assess maternal psychological well-being. The 15-item Child Parent Relationship Scale was used to measure maternal perceptions of mother-child relationship. The parent report of the 25-item Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire was used to assess child ratings of emotional or behavioral difficulties. Poor maternal well-being was linked directly with more motherchild conflict and less mother-child closeness. Poor maternal well-being was associated with higher level of emotional problems, conduct problems and peer problems at age seven. Both mother-child conflict and mother-child closeness were linked directly with child social and emotional difficulties when they were seven. More mother-child conflict at age three was associated with fewer prosocial behaviors and higher levels of inattention/hyperactivity, emotional problems, peer problems and conduct problems at age seven. Lower mother-child closeness at age three was associated with fewer prosocial behaviors, and higher inattention/hyperactivity, emotional problems, peer problems, and conduct problems at age seven. Dr. Kallitsoglou said, "Our findings suggest that there is no direct relationship between maternal psychological well-being and the quantity of support provided to families which rely primarily on grandparental childcare arrangements. While an extra pair of hands may impact maternal outcomes such as stress with child upbringing it may not potentially be enough to alleviate more distal parenting outcomes such as maternal psychological distress. "However, the findings are tentative. Grandparental support in the form of childcare may have different implications for maternal mental health for families who may have access to fewer resources of support, for instance, single mothers or across different ethnic groups or mothers in full time employment. So, we cannot rule out the possibility the help of grandparents for mothers with characteristics different to those in our sample to have a different impact. "We did not find any evidence to suggest that practical support with childcare as measured by the time children spent time in the care of grandparents during the week is beneficial for the parent-child relationship." More information: Nevra Ats Akyol et al, The pathway from grandparental support with childcare in the early years to child socioemotional outcomes in middle childhood: evidence from the Millennium Cohort Study, Early Child Development and Care (2023). DOI: 10.1080/03004430.2023.2218596 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 To help resolve the scientific debate over whether it was a giant asteroid or volcanic eruptions that wiped out the dinosaurs and most other species 66 million years ago, Dartmouth researchers tried a new approachthey removed scientists from the debate and let the computers decide. The researchers report a new modeling method powered by interconnected processors that can work through reams of geological and climate data without human input. The paper, "A Bayesian inversion for emissions and export productivity across the end-Cretaceous boundary," was published Sept. 29 by Science. They tasked nearly 130 processors with analyzing the fossil record in reverse to pinpoint the events and conditions that led to the CretaceousPaleogene (KPg) extinction event that cleared the way for the ascendance of mammals, including the primates that would lead to early humans. "Part of our motivation was to evaluate this question without a predetermined hypothesis or bias," said Alex Cox, first author of the study and a graduate student in Dartmouth's Department of Earth Sciences. "Most models move in a forward direction. We adapted a carbon-cycle model to run the other way, using the effect to find the cause through statistics, giving it only the bare minimum of prior information as it worked toward a particular outcome. "In the end, it doesn't matter what we think or what we previously thoughtthe model shows us how we got to what we see in the geological record," he said. The model crunched more than 300,000 possible scenarios of carbon dioxide emissions, sulfur dioxide output, and biological productivity in the 1 million years before and after the KPg extinction. Through a type of machine learning known as Markov Chain Monte Carlowhich is not unlike how a smartphone predicts what you'll type nextthe processors worked together independently to compare, revise, and recalculate their conclusions until they reached a scenario that matches the outcome preserved in the fossil record. Geochemical and organic remnants in the fossil record capture clearly the catastrophic conditions during the KPg extinction, so named for the geological periods on either side of the millennia-long cataclysm. Animals and plants worldwide suffered massive die-offs as food webs collapsed under an unstable atmosphere thatladen with sun-blotting sulfur, airborne minerals and heat-trapping carbon dioxideswung wildly from frigid to scorching conditions. While the effect is clear, the cause of the extinction is unresolved. Early theories attributing the event to volcanic eruptions have been eclipsed by the discovery of an impact crater in Mexico known as Chicxulub that was caused by a miles-wide asteroid now thought to be primarily responsible for the extinction event. The theories have begun to converge, however, as fossil evidence suggests a one-two punch unlike anything in Earth's history: The asteroid may have slammed into a planet already reeling from the massive, extremely violent eruptions of volcanoes in western India's Deccan Traps. But scientists still do not knownor agree onthe extent to which each event contributed to the mass extinction. So, Cox and his adviser Brenhin Keller, a Dartmouth assistant professor of Earth sciences and study co-author, decided to "see what you would get if you let the code decide." Their model suggested that the outpouring of climate-altering gases from the Deccan Traps alone could have been sufficient to trigger the global extinction. The Traps had been erupting for roughly 300,000 years before the Chicxulub asteroid. During their nearly 1 million years of eruptions, the Deccan Traps are estimated to have pumped up to 10.4 trillion tons of carbon dioxide and 9.3 trillion tons of sulfur into the atmosphere. "We've known historically that volcanoes can cause massive extinctions, but this is the first independent estimation of volatile emissions taken from the evidence of their environmental effects," said Keller, who published a paper last year linking four of Earth's five mass extinctions to volcanism. "Our model worked through the data independently and without human bias to determine the amount of carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide required to produce the climate and carbon cycle disruptions we see in the geologic record. These amounts turned out to be consistent with what we expect to see in emissions from the Deccan Traps," said Keller, who has worked extensively to examine the link between Deccan volcanism and the KPg extinction. The model did reveal a steep drop in the accumulation of organic carbon in the deep ocean around the time of the Chicxulub impact, which likely resulted from the asteroid causing the demise of numerous animal and plant species. The record contains traces of a decrease in temperature around the same time that would have been caused by the large amount of sulfura short-term cooling agentthe mammoth meteorite would have ejected into the air when it collided with the sulfur-rich surface on that area of the planet. The asteroid impact also would have likely emitted both carbon and sulfur dioxide. However, the model found that there was no spike in the emissions of either gas at that time, suggesting that the asteroid's contribution to the extinction did not hinge on gas emissions. In modern context, Cox said, the burning of fossil fuels from 2000 to 2023 has pumped about 16 billion tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere per year. This is 100 times greater than the highest annual emission rate scientists project from the Deccan Traps. While alarming on its own, it would still take a few thousand years for current carbon dioxide emissions to match the total amount that spewed forth from the ancient volcanoes, Cox said. "Most heartening is that the results we achieved are broadly physically plausible, which is impressive given that the model could have technically run completely wild without stronger prior constraints," he said. Interconnecting the processors shortened the time it took the model to analyze such a massive data set from months or years to hours, Cox said. His and Keller's method can be used to invert other Earth systems modelssuch as those for the climate or carbon cycleto evaluate geological events for which the outcomes are well known but not the factors that led there. "This type of parallel inversion hasn't been done in Earth sciences models before. Our method can be scaled up to include thousands of processors, which gives us a much broader solution space to explore, and it's quite resistant to human bias," Cox said. "So far, people in our field have been more fascinated by the novelty of the method than the conclusion we reached," he laughed. "Any Earth system for which we know the effect but not the cause is ripe for inversion. The better we know the output, the better we're able to characterize the input that caused it. More information: Alexander A. Cox, A Bayesian inversion for emissions and export productivity across the end-Cretaceous boundary, Science (2023). DOI: 10.1126/science.adh3875. www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adh3875 Journal information: Science This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Aging well cards. Credit: BMC Women's Health (2023). DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02453-6 Healthy aging is all about balance for older Nehiyawak/Plains Cree women in Maskwacis, Alberta, according to community-based participatory research based on sharing circles recently published in BMC Women's Health. "It is important to have balance and equilibrium in our life," said one sharing circle participant. "The body cries out if you don't have balance and you start to experience sickness and you will not be fully able to provide support to your family members. Be mindful and present to see when the balance in your life is off. "It's important to address all aspects of wellness daily in order to age healthy and well: spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically." Participated in the sharing circles were 36 seniorsmostly women and a few men. They were led by a research team from Maskwacis Health Services, the University of Alberta and the University of Calgary, under the guidance of a Women Elders Advisory Committee in 2017. "Women elders are the fire keepers of the home. They help the generations before and after them, like a touchstone for the family, helping to keep them together and sharing traditions," says Luwana Listener, the community research coordinator for the project, who also lives in Maskwacis. "The Elders are such a valuable resource and blessing to the community because every single one of them has their own expertise and gifts to share with the community." The sharing circles were held in three locations within the four nations that make up MaskwacisErmineskin Cree Nation, Louis Bull Tribe, Montana First Nation and Samson Cree First Nationas well as in the nearby community of Pigeon Lake. "Everybody had a chance to talk and they were really wide-ranging discussions," notes Sue Ross, former Cavarzan Chair in Women's Health Research and professor emeritus in obstetrics and gynecology. "It was a privilege to be there just to listen to other people's experiences." The first Maskwacis project was about the women's experience of menopause but the research team soon realized the women had much more valuable knowledge to share about how to age well. At first some were reluctant to participate in the sharing circles because of the history of unethical medical research within Indigenous communities, Listener says, while others felt aging was a taboo subject. "People were hesitant to talk at first but when we offered the sharing circles, it changed that perspective, knowing that research doesn't have to be harmful. It can be strength-based. It can be meaningful and beneficial for the entire community," Listener says. Each event began with a quote from Ojibway-Anishinaabe Elder Jim Dumont: "Wellness from an Indigenous perspective is a whole and healthy person expressed through a sense of balance of body, mind, emotion, and spirit. Central to wellness is belief in one's connection to language, land, beings of creation, and ancestry, supported by a caring family and environment." Using the four aspects of the Medicine Wheel as a framework to guide the sessions, the participants identified four key strategies they used to age well: Physicalkeeping active to remain well Mentallearning new skills to nourish your mind Emotionallaughing, crying and being happy Spiritualpracticing Nehiyawak traditional ways These results were shared through community meetings, and a booklet with historic photographs is in the works. Participants expressed fears about losing their mobility and hearing, or developing dementia as they aged, but they also described how they turned negative experiences into positive ones by using these strategies. For example, one woman reported sometimes not being able to move when she wakes up in the morning. She gives thanks to the Creator for giving her her body, and then all of a sudden her pain is gone and she's able to move around, Listener remembers. All of the women feel a responsibility to pass along their knowledge and advice to younger family members as part of healthy aging. "Even if they don't live with their grandchildren, they provide a huge amount of support and they get a lot of personal satisfaction from being able to help," notes Ross, who is a member of the Women and Children's Health Research Institute (WCHRI). Listener, a WCHRI affiliate member, says she is grateful the women have also chosen to share their wisdom with the greater community through this research project. "They've given me this path to follow so that I will be able to be a successful elder in my community when I reach that age," she says. "I now have all of these wonderful strategies that all these people shared. It's just a blessing to me." More information: Luwana Listener et al, Nehiyawak (Cree) women's strategies for aging well: community-based participatory research in Maskwacis, Alberta, Canada, by the Sohkitehew (Strong Heart) group, BMC Women's Health (2023). DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02453-6 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 report from James Cook University (JCU) TropWATER reveals a long-term decline in dugong populations along the Great Barrier Reef, spanning from Mission Beach to Bundaberg, and Hervey Bay in the Great Sandy Strait. Aerial surveys conducted in 2022 confirm that this declining trend has persisted for almost two decades, despite Australia's renowned global status as the host of the world's largest population of these marine mammals. The 2022 Dugong Aerial Survey: Mission Beach to Moreton Bay report is part of a series of aerial surveys conducted every five years to monitor the distribution and abundance of dugongs along Queensland's coast. The 2022 survey focused on the Mission Beach to Moreton Bay region, with surveys from Cape York to Cairns set to commence in 2023. Lead dugong researcher, JCU TropWATER's Dr. Chris Cleguer said the report shows a clear declining trend since 2005, with an estimated annual population decline of 2.3% from Mission Beach to Bundaberg. "We observed a decline in overall dugong numbers, with the area of most concern being the southern section of the Great Barrier Reef from the Whitsundays to Bundaberg," he said. "Alarmingly, we observed very few calves in this region, and only two mother-calf pairs spotted in the Gladstone area. "Our report reinforces the urgency in addressing threats to dugongs." While the overall population is declining, the 2022 aerial survey confirmed areas of high dugong numbers in specific regions, including Hinchinbrook, the Townsville area, and Shoalwater Bay. The dugong aerial surveys in the Great Barrier Reef are one of the most critical Reef monitoring projects. Minister for the Environment and Water Tanya Plibersek MP said the Government is committed to putting a stop to biodiversity decline. "This research, sadly, draws a clear picture of what we already knowthat more needs to be done to address species decline in Australia, including on the Great Barrier Reef," she said. "I want to see this majestic creature on a path to recovery." "That's why we're restoring important blue carbon ecosystems like sea grass which dugongs call home, and investing A$1.2 billion to protect the Great Barrier Reef. "We're also supporting the Queensland Government to phase out gillnets in the Great Barrier Reef, which are a key threat to dugong populations." Great Barrier Reef Foundation Integrated Monitoring and Reporting Director Charlie Morgan said the Great Barrier Reef supports one of the world's largest dugong populations. "The condition and behavior of individual marine species such as dugongs can tell us a lot about ecosystem health as a whole so the news that this iconic marine animals' numbers are declining is another sign that the Reef needs our help to protect it from the growing impacts of climate change," Ms Morgan said. Hervey Bay, located south of the Great Barrier Reef, showed the most significant estimated rate of population decline at 5.7% per year between 2005 and 2022. These findings are linked to back-to-back flood events in early 2022, resulting in extensive seagrass loss and depriving dugongs of their primary food source. "Seagrass habitats are very sensitive to extreme weather events like cyclones and flooding, and often healthy meadows can deteriorate within a matter of weeks or months following an event," Dr. Cleguer said. "It's highly likely that some dugongs would have died from starvation, while others would have moved away to habitats near Gladstone in search of food. "We found the dugongs that did stay found refuge right in the heart of Hervey Bay, where pockets of deeper seagrass were still holding out. "The case of Hervey Bay serves as a warning of what may continue to occur under future climate conditions, it underscores the urgency in preserving and understanding seagrass habitats, particularly the deeper water ones." JCU TropWATER researchers consulted with Traditional Owners along the Queensland coast. The report discusses how new technologies and communities could be used by Indigenous rangers in sea country management. "This consultation confirmed that Traditional Owners are very keen to be informed on the results of the surveys as well as opportunities to be actively involved in future monitoring," Dr. Cleguer said. "By training up Traditional Owners on sea country we could have more regular and finer scale monitoring. This could help to detect changes in population size to allow managers to intervene quicker." Director of JCU TropWATER, and leader of the National Environment Science Program Marine and Coastal Hub, Professor Damien Burrows, highlighted TropWATER's renowned expertise in seagrass and dugong research, with a strong commitment to preserving these vital ecosystems and megafauna. "We have over four decades of extensive research covering both dugongs and seagrass habitats, spanning from southern Queensland to Shark Bay in Western Australia," he said. "Our researchers are exploring innovative technologies such as drones, AI, body condition assessments, e-DNA and genomics approaches to enhance our monitoring and advance our research of dugongs and seagrass, including their interconnections. "We are also actively collaborating with Traditional Owners on sea country, providing communities with the necessary tools to monitor both dugongs and seagrass effectively." More information: Christophe Cleguer et al, 2022 Dugong Aerial Survey: Mission Beach to Moreton Bay , James Cook University (2023). DOI: 10.25903/s661-1j55 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: Wiley New survey data from Wiley suggest workers are far less likely than their managers and senior-level executives to feel psychologically safe taking risks at work. The findings from the latest Wiley Workplace Intelligence report show a particularly wide gulf between individual contributors and executives, which could lead to lower trust, engagement and productivity in the workplace. Psychological safetya term first coined by Harvard Business School professor Amy Edmondsonrefers to an environment where individuals can freely express ideas, voice concerns, take risks and admit mistakes without fear of repercussions. It's recognized as a key factor in fostering healthy workplace environments. According to Wiley's latest research, only 53% of individual contributors said they feel safe taking risks at their organizations, compared to 64% of managers, 55% of supervisors, 71% of directors and 76% of executives. Nearly one-fifth of individual contributors didn't feel safe taking risks, the highest of all respondents. "Psychological safety has become increasingly important in recent years with the shift to hybrid and remote work," said Dr. Mark Scullard, senior director of product innovation at Wiley. "To bridge the gaps in psychological safety that we're seeing across organizational levels, companies can implement facilitated learning experiences to equip all employees with the skills for effective relationships, better communication, understanding, trust and teamwork. This intentional and inclusive approach helps foster greater psychological safety within the workplace that allows innovation to thrive." Other key findings from the report include: Blame Game: At least 40% of respondents in higher-level positions (supervisors, directors and executives) indicated that their mistakes were held against them, possibly due to their increased visibility across the organization, compared to individual contributors (29%) and managers (35%). Comfort with Discomfort: A majority of middle management respondents said they largely feel able to raise problems and tough issues at work, while individual contributors and executives both felt less comfortable bringing up such issues. Undermining Concerns: Supervisors were the least of all respondents to agree that no one on their teams would deliberately undermine their work (68%). Higher Psychological Safety in Senior Roles: Executives reported having the highest levels of psychological safety at work, with 93% feeling mostly or completely psychologically safe. Individual contributors and managers reported lower levels of psychological safety at 86% each, and felt less safe speaking up and less valued for their contributions. The findings were gathered in a survey conducted by Wiley among 2,000 professionals across organizational roles and departments within various industries in North America. Survey responses were collected anonymously and compiled in aggregate form. Provided by Wiley 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: AI-generated image Most companies like to show that they care about queer people. Following gains in rights and legal recognition over the last decades, it is now a commonly established ritual to display a rainbow logo during Pride Month. Big corporations such as North Face, Anheuser-Busch InBev, Target and Kohl's have all recently ran inclusive ad campaigns featuring Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex (LGBTQI+) people. This makes sense from a business perspective, with "pink money" weighing 3.5 trillion euros globally and around 874 billion euros in the EU. However, many in the LGBTQI+ community will brush off these gestures as pinkwashing if they are not backed up with more substantial action. This could mean a company standing by a queer influencer hired to promote a product when they are attacked by the far-right as a result of this exposure. Or including out LGBTQI+ people at the top of the corporate ladder. Over the past decade, I have followed the debate over LGBTQI+ inclusion as a practitioner and more recently as a researcher studying the role businesses play in the political sphere, including on social issues such as LGBTQI+ rights. And I can testify that diverse corporate boards are a long shot from becoming reality. The data, or lack thereof, speak for themselves. According to OutLEADERSHIP's estimates, less than 1% of the 5,670 board seats at Fortune 500 companies are held by LGBTQI+ directors. Europe is worse still, with no data to show on the matter. This comes as a particular surprise given the European Commission's recent pledges to boost opportunities for the community. The case for diversity And yet, the case for board diversity is stark. Companies with a diverse board benefit from "more effective decision-making, better utilization of the talent pool [and] enhancement of corporate reputation and investor relations," according to one of the world's leading accounting bodies. In a world rocked by complex, interconnected risks, diverse boards can help corporations navigate what is known in corporatespeak as volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA). Research by consultancies BCG and McKinsey suggest diverse leadership teams enhance productivity, enable innovation, and improve financial performance. Drawing from data from 657 publicly traded US firms over the period of 2003 to 2016, Finnish researchers at Aalto University and the University of Vaasa found that companies with LGBTQI+-friendly policies enjoyed both higher profitability and higher stock market valuations. For example, an improvement of a company's rating on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation's Corporate Equality Index by one standard deviation can yield a 7% increase in stock market value. Conversely, homophobic and transphobic policies cost money. A report by Open for Business estimates that hostilities against LGBTQI+ people deprived Hungary, Poland and Romania close to 7 billion euros annually. However, an increase of 10% in the rights of LGBTQI+ people in these countries could result in a 3,400 euros per capita increase in GDP. What's more, a truly diverse board could boost companies' ratings in environmental, social and governance (ESG) and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). When they occupy positions of power, LGBTQI+ people have an opportunity to strengthen their companies' corporate mission for the community worldwide. For example, this could mean advocating for queer rights in some of the near 70 countries that continue to criminalize same-sex relationships. Step forward The next question is: how can businesses bring about change? For DEI initiatives to reach a successful outcome, there must first and foremost be reliable demographic data. Due to historic discrimination against LGBTQI+ people, there has long been a justifiable reluctance to self-identify. However, recent legal protections have made data collection possible and, above all, safe. Earlier this year, Deloitte surveyed 5,474 LGBTQI+ people working across different sectors in 13 countries, including France, the Netherlands, Poland, and the United Kingdom. The findings showed that when companies are not inclusive, LGBTQI+ employees are willing to leave for those that are. It has been a long-held perception that board recruitment is an insider's game where current directors bring their friends to the table. When this isn't the case, many boards seek current and former CEOs and CFOs. This is hardly helps matters, with not only LGBTQI+, but female leaders facing a historical glass ceiling in the corporate world. To create a diverse pool of qualified candidates, nominating committees should expand their criteria beyond those with C-suite experience at publicly listed companies. Established in 2022, the Association of LGBTQ+ Corporate Directors argues that the secretive and non-transparent process of board recruitment is a barrier to inclusion and the lack of diversity on corporate boards demonstrates discrimination against LGBTQI+ peoplesimilar to the experience of other minority groups. More importantly, they point to the number of LGBTQI+ board-ready talent. The OutQUORUM BoardFit program, an initiative of OutLEADERSHIP, was launched in 2016 to prepare LGBTQI+ leaders to take a seat at the board table. As part of this program, a database of board-ready queer leaders was created. The organization encourages out LGBTQI+ corporate directors to self-identify, be counted, and mentor qualified candidates for board seats. Leveraging gender policies to appoint more LGBTQ+ women at the top Businesses could also leverage existing policies to boost women's presence in boardrooms. After the share of CEOs in the Fortune 500 dropped by 25% in 2018, a host of European countries, including Norway, Germany, Finland, France and Spain, introduced gender quotas in 2022. More recently, the European Parliament passed a new law requiring that by 2026, 40% of non-executive directors and 33% of all directors on the boards of publicly listed companies are women. As companies look to comply with this law, there is an opportunity to appoint women who identify as LGBTQI+. Should voluntary schemes similar to the ones listed above fail, it may soon be time for the European Commission to build on its LGBTIQ Equality Strategy 20202025 by mandating LGBTQI+ representation on boards. However, companies need not wait to be compelled to act. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Tech hegemony name of NSA's game 10:00, September 28, 2023 By ZHANG ZHOUXIANG ( China Daily Had the Ministry of National Security not mentioned it on its official WeChat account, it would have been hard to imagine that the US National Security Agency, a key department of the US government, had invaded the server of China's Huawei headquarters in 2009 and was monitoring it ever since. This was at a time when the US had not even triggered trade frictions with China and "partnership" was the key word defining their bilateral relationship. That was also the time when the US was keeping a tab on allies and imagined enemies alike, such as by bugging the then German leader's phone, as Edward Snowden revealed. All these incidents once again prove that even when the US smiles at you, you cannot take it at face value. The US can use one hand for a handshake and the other to point a gun at the person it is shaking hands with. It's ironic that despite spying on the Huawei server for 14 years, the US still could not find any evidence of Huawei having "stolen" technologies from it. That is the biggest evidence that the NSA is not at all concerned about the United States' national security, but about the US' technological hegemony. Anything called "national security" for the US is based on the insecurity of others. With this mentality, the US cannot become a worthy leader of the world. It can only arouse the whole world's suspicion with its actions, as everyone knows that the US gained its current superpower status by cheating, stealing, hacking and blackmailing. And such conspiracies won't persist for long because the rest of the world cannot be overshadowed by the US forever. That Huawei has released its new smartphone model Mate 60 Pro, despite the sanctions, proves that the US' blockade and surveillance don't work. It is time the US woke up from its own dreams. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) Queensbury Water Superintendent Chris Harrington hopes to complete full road restoration for the Quaker at Aviation road intersection by the end of October. The intersection experienced a water main break and a sink hole earlier this month. The pipe and hole were repaired, but the hole has only a patch repair. The New York State Department of Transportation needs a full repair as they fear frost heaving and that their snow plows will have issues in the busy intersection, Harrington told the Queensbury Town Board at a workshop on Tuesday. The initial plan for the road was to just smooth over the patch, Harrington said of the intersection. However, after consulting with Kubricky Company and professional road paver Patrick OConnor of OConnor Construction full restoration is possible. There is a feeling we might be able to do that, Harrington told the board. Restoring the intersection before winter could save the town more than $100,000 since they wouldnt have to go back again in the spring for maintenance and traffic control, according to Harrington. The rest of the water pipe will be replaced next year, Harrington said. I thought maybe wed have a chance to pull that pipe out and put a new pipe in, but it was too much between the traffic control and what have you. Water main replacement is still expected to cost the town in the high six-figures, Harrington said. It was instead decided to put a temporary valve in place. However, in doing so, fire protection on Upper Glen Street is short of what it was before the break, according to Harrington. If there is a significant fire in that location it may be a challenge to fight it effectively, so right now Tom Kubricky of Kubricky Company is putting hydrants in and adding a backup system so Queensbury has the ability to fight a fire on Upper Glen Street, Harrington said. We killed that pipe, that pipe is no longer in service. We have re-located a water service to another pipe. Then on Monday put grout in that pipe that collapsed in the Route 254 section, so theres no more chances of a pothole or a sinkhole forming, Harrington said. Harrington expressed some frustration. Most of the work Im doing is restoration for New York State DOT. Fixing the water main isnt that big a deal, but road restoration and DOT standards are fairly restrictive, Harrington said. They dont care that I got a compromised pipe underneath the road. They dont care that much about fire protections. Theyre worried about the type of barrels Im putting, the signage that maintains the protection of traffic, he continued. In the spring, pipeline replacement will be done with a directional drill. This process wont impact traffic as much since the pipe drilling will be completed underneath the road, according to Harrington. Its unbelievable technology. LOWER TOWNSHIP In a little more than a decade, Cape May Brewing Company went from a tiny craft brewery to a multistate operation, one that industry observers describe as New Jerseys largest brewing company. Helping that expansion was Cape May Brewings system of self-distribution, with the companys own drivers and branded trucks delivering kegs and cases across New Jersey and into neighboring states. In 2019, the company launched Cape Beverage, an independent distribution company that also delivered other alcohol products and soft drinks. That is coming to an end, with the recent announcement that Cape May Brewing was divesting its distribution rights and ending self-distribution through Cape Beverage. At the heart of this decision is our renewed appreciation for our entrepreneurial roots and what has driven our success from day one, said Ryan Krill, founder of Cape May Brewing. We know what we do exceptionally well. We create delicious and innovative craft brews and spirits that have made fans happy for years, leaving them in anticipation of whats next from us. Thats why we want to funnel all of our time, energy, and resources into delighting them with our products." Frank Stempin, president of Cape May Brewing, added, This transaction will allow us to do that next level reinvesting into Cape May Brewing in a variety of ways such as expanded production, state-of-the-art brewing equipment, and growth of footprint. Contacted after the announcement, Stempin said the company would not disclose any financial details of the decision, including how much money the move will save. About 20 jobs were eliminated, Stempin said. About 130 people work for the brewing company in total. 5 local breweries to check out before the Atlantic City Beer and Music Festival Beer lovers dont have to wait for the Atlantic City Beer and Music Festival this weekend to Cape May Brewing Company will actively support former employees of Cape Beverage Distributing, offering job placement assistance, severance, and continuation of benefits packages to aid in this transition, reads a statement announcing the decision, which took effect Monday. Distribution of Cape May Brewing products is being managed by four distributors: Kramer Beverage Company of Hammonton; Peerless Beverage Company of Union, Union County; Shore Point Distributing Company of Freehold, Monmouth County; and Kohler Distributing Company of Hawthorne, Passaic County. In finding the right partners to take the distribution reins from us, we followed our own advice and sought out companies who know what they do better than anyone, Stempin said. We chose four companies who demonstrate whats possible when you focus on one thing and execute with excellence. Kramer, Kohler, Peerless, and Shore Point are all family-owned companies who have amassed formidable distribution expertise over the generations. Their deep understanding of the landscape will enable them to seamlessly continue to serve our valued customers with the same dedication and efficiency they have come to expect from Cape Beverage over the years. With the largest territory coverage in New Jersey, Kramer Beverage will distribute the majority of Cape May Brewing's inventory, according to Cape May Brewing. In the spring, the company announced it would acquire Flying Fish Brewing Company, based in Camden County. Without disclosing a purchase price, Krill told The Philadelphia Inquirer in April that Cape May Brewing Company would acquire Flying Fish's production facility and other assets, including the Flying Fish name. The week, Stempin said that deal is off. After extensive analysis during the diligence phase, Cape May Brewing Company determined it will not complete the planned acquisition of Flying Fish, he said. Frank Rio, the president of Flying Fish, said Wednesday the acquisition deal fell through months ago, although it was not as widely reported as the acquisition announcement. He did not offer any insights into what happened. Cape May Brewing to buy Camden County's Flying Fish LOWER TOWNSHIP Cape May Brewing Company intends to acquire Camden County-based Flying Fish Thats a question for them about why they didnt move forward with closing, Rio said. On my end, theres nothing to say. In June, Cape May Brewings sister company Cape May Spirits Co. announced a new line of canned cocktails, described as being made for the art of day drinking," and the company also offers hard seltzers, lemonades and a rotating roster of seasonal beers along with its Cape May IPA and other big sellers. On Monday, Cape May Brewing announced it took a bronze medal at the Great American Beer Festival for its Oktoberfest. The company started in a 1,500-square-foot space at the Cape May Airport in 2011. The company now has more than 32,000 square feet and distributes in New Jersey, a significant portion of eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware. WEST CAPE MAY Cape May Countys first legal cannabis dispensary quietly opened its doors this week, and staff members say business is already brisk. With final approval from the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission and all inspections completed, Shore House Canna on Sunset Boulevard is clear to begin selling cannabis flower, edibles and concentrates. A grand opening is planned for Oct. 28, but owner Tom Nuscis said the soft opening will give the business more time to work out any issues and get things running smoothly before the business begins to advertise. It went better than we expected, said Nicole Melchiorre, one of the principals in the business. She said customers were enthusiastic about the new dispensary, and the only problems were some technical glitches. The opening brings New Jersey one step closer to having 50 adult-use cannabis locations, and opens the southernmost cannabis store in New Jersey. There are four cannabis dispensaries in Atlantic County and one in Cumberland County. A year ago, there were 18 dispensaries open in the state, according to Scott Rudder, president of the New Jersey CannaBusiness Association. Recently, the business organization criticized the Cannabis Regulatory Commission, the agency that regulates weed licenses and rules, over the pace of new license approval. Legal weed is on its way to Cape May County Work continues on a West Cape May property thats set to become Cape May Countys first legal cannabis dispensary. But in a Wednesday statement, Rudder cited business expansion in Ocean and Morris counties, and a recent commission action approving the sale of a wider variety of cannabis edibles. He said the state has received thousands of applications for cannabis businesses, in a call for more investment in the new industry. Hundreds of licenses approved. New dispensaries opening. Expansion of available products. Wholesale, distribution and delivery on the horizon. The New Jersey cannabis industry is accomplishing great things every day, all while neighboring states struggle to get their own industry going, he said. Rudder cited two issues keeping the brakes on: the reluctance of many communities to allow cannabis businesses in their town and the financing needed to launch a state-compliant cannabis business, which he said can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, if not millions. Many cannabis entrepreneurs simply do not have the capital to get their business up and running, he said. After voters said yes to legalization in 2020, the state approved legislation creating the new market, and giving municipalities final say on whether to allow weed businesses and where they could be located. Rudder argues some towns enacted overly restrictive rules but said that may change as local officials see the tax benefits coming to their neighbors, with the state law allowing a local tax on cannabis sales. Financing can be tougher, with current federal rules keeping many of the tax deductions and financial tools available to other businesses from having anything to do with cannabis, which remains listed by the federal government among the most harmful and dangerous illegal drugs. But major changes could be on the way for the federal cannabis landscape. Atlantic City church opposes new weed business An Atlantic City church does not want weed sales nearby. There may not be anything they can do about it. President Joe Biden last year pardoned all federal charges related to marijuana possession and sought a review of how the feds classify marijuana. Rudder cited the potential to reschedule cannabis and the federal SAFER Banking Act, which would protect banks offering financial services to cannabis operations that are legal in their states, in his Wednesday statement. The Senate Banking Committee approved the Safe and Secure Enforcement and Regulation Banking Act in a 14-9 vote, clearing the way for a floor vote, in a move welcomed by national cannabis industry advocates. For now, New Jersey activists continue to complain about prices for consumers, while neighboring states either move forward with their own legal markets or eye the potential of allowing weed sales to adults. Growers in Oregon, California and other states report a glut of unsold weed, after some businesses geared up for a national market that remains unavailable. In West Cape May, Shore House Canna spent the summer renovating its building, installing the required security measures and preparing to open. The company kept its soft opening quiet, posting to its Facebook page an image of a VW camper van with surfboards on the roof rack and the caption Beach lovers, meet your new best bud, without specifically stating it was open for sales. As of Wednesday, the store did not yet appear on a map of dispensaries on the cannabis commission website. GALLOWAY TOWNSHIP The Township Council on Tuesday amended this years budget to accept a $15,000 grant from the state Department of Agriculture to fight the dreaded spotted lanternfly. The money will be used to apply pesticides to eradicate the tree-damaging insect, but the township is only allowed to use pesticides on municipally owned property, Township Manager Chris Johansen said. The township received the maximum amount allowed through the funding. Johansen said he would be recommending a forester. I dont see them with that type of frequency here, Mayor Anthony Coppola Jr. said. The key to fighting the spotted lanternfly is to find its nests, Johansen said. The Agriculture Department wants homeowners to learn how to identify the lanternflys eggs to destroy their nests, Johansen said. The nests attach themselves to the bark of trees and resemble a brown mass, he said. The lanternfly is an invasive, plant-hopping insect native to Asia that landed in 2014 in Pennsylvania and has since spread to New Jersey and adjacent states. Galloway Township hires attorney to handle tax liens Galloway Township Council appointed the law office of Brian D. Huen of Northfield as its municipal tax lien attorney during its regularly scheduled meeting Tuesday evening. It feeds on many types of plants, stressing them and in some cases killing them. The black-spotted winged insect generally lays eggs in the fall that hatch in April or May, depending on temperature. It would be a difficult situation if the township were to become infested with lanternflies because the municipality is the largest in the state geographically at 115 square miles, but people only live in a relatively small portion of it, Coppola said. One of the most important aspects of the grant will be to identify what section of the township to attack first, Johansen said. It could be either the South Egg Harbor or Pomona neighborhoods, he said. In other township news this month, council: Amended the 2023 budget to include an Emergency Management Agency Assistance Grant in the amount of $10,000 from the state Department of Law and Public Safety. Authorized using Advanced Electronics Design to purchase four patrol tablet computers for police vehicles. Passed a resolution opposing a possible federal plan to use Atlantic City International Airport to shelter migrants. Authorized using Petrosh Big Top LLC, of Egg Harbor City, to supply rental equipment for various township events. Proclaimed Oct. 6 to be Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day in the township. Rukhshana, September 16, 2023 Fashion shops in Bamyan province have been told to stop importing short or tight dresses to sell at the market, according to shopkeepers in Bamyan Bazaar. Member of the Talibans Vice and Virtue department in Bamyan gave the directive to shops selling womens clothes. Clothes seller Zakaria* said that shops were visited individually by the morality police and given the instruction. They came to his shop and warned him not to import tight or short dresses and avoid selling tight, thin, checkered, and tracksuit pants for women. Zakaria, 33, said he and other shopkeepers in the bazaars Madina Market were threatened that if they are caught selling any of these items, they will be punished. He is worried because a key part of his business is womens dresses for special events. These dresses tend to be more fitted or with less skin coverage on arms and ankles because men are generally not permitted at such events, or the men and women are partitioned so they do not see each other. Now he is now confused what to do because theres no market demand for other styles. The party dresses we sell are all made of net. Now if we cant bring net fabric clothes I dont know what to bring except net clothes. Other party clothes cant be found, except the ones made of net. If it is found and we import it, our customers wont buy it, he said. He said the directive comes on top of an already sluggish sales market. Even now, its very hard to provide for our familys monthly expenses. In the meantime, the Taliban are imposing a new limit on us every day. I think they are the enemy of the economy and peoples work. They closed the womens beauty salons. Band-e-Amir National Park has stopped booming. Now they are stuck on womens clothes. May God bless us in the end because life has become very difficult. Last month, the Taliban banned women from visiting Band-e-Amir National Park which may have affected visitor numbers as families can no longer visit the park together. Shopkeeper Mortaza* was also visited by the morality police. The 38-year-old said he has been selling clothes for more than ten years and he has never felt so suffocated. The Taliban only paralyse the peoples economy with their moves. Every day they make a new excuse, he said. For example, now they say clothes made of net are not allowed. What is the problem with net clothes from the point of view of Islamic Sharia? I dont know. Mortaza said he imports clothes that are in demand from customers, but if he follows the Taliban-imposed rules, his business would fall. The Talibans Vice and Virtue department in Bamyan released a statement that they had a meeting with local traders and businessmen to inform them that tight and thin clothes are against Islamic Sharia and Afghan culture and residents should not use such clothes. By Neeraj Sharma, Vice Chairman, The Lexicon Group, Pune Mirror & Civic Mirror "I understand you may find it hard to believe, but the highest form of human excellence is the ability to question oneself and others. In my opinion, this aspect of Socratic philosophy is pivotal in instigating change within any community. As human beings, it is inherent in our nature to grow complacent and, often, content with the status quo. However, this complacency unfortunately leads to stagnation. Education Conclave: A Roadmap to Transforming Maharashtras Education, represents a deliberate effort on our part to foster a dialogue that challenges our existing practices and encourages us to contemplate how we can improve as a collective of educators, teachers, and leaders. Drawing upon my two decades of experience as an educator, I am convinced that the time has come for a significant transformation in our industry. We must reconsider, revamp, and reconfigure our pedagogical methods, ushering in a new era of innovation in education. The New Education Policy serves as a framework with which we can collaboratively work, seeking innovative ways to enhance the overall learning experience for every child within our city, state, and country. This also presents an incredible opportunity for all stakeholders to voice their concerns, with the aim of optimising our entire system for effective teaching and learning. We must unite to address our current shortcomings, issues, pain points, and concerns. Through constructive dialogues with the brightest minds in our industry, we hold the promise of finding effective solutions, generating creative ideas, and refining our practices. This is the overarching objective of the conclave! Our state is teeming with young minds brimming with enthusiasm for new experiences and opportunities. If we manage to empower these young individuals with the confidence, knowledge, and skills to realise their full potential, we can genuinely transform the future of Maharashtra. At this Education Conclave, we aspire to formulate a standardised set of systems, ideas, and policies that can be implemented across every school in our state, ensuring that no child is left behind." (Pune Times Mirror and Civic Mirror are organising the Education Conclave, where a distinguished gathering of educational leaders, innovators, and influencers in the field, will come together for a critical dialogue. The event will be held at The Lexicon International School, Wagholi, on September 30 between 4 and 6 pm) A Henry County, Illinois, man has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison on child sex trafficking-related charges. For about seven months, from Nov. 10, 2020, through June 7, 2021, Scott Edward Raschke, 39, of Woodhull, thought he had been chatting online with a man who was sex trafficking his 11-year-old daughter. Instead, the man with whom Raschke was chatting turned out to be an undercover FBI agent. When Raschke finally went to meet the man and his alleged daughter, he was arrested by federal agents. Raschke pleaded guilty May 2 to one count each of attempted sex trafficking of children, attempted enticement of a minor, and sexual exploitation of a child. During a hearing Sept. 21 in U.S. District Court, Rock Island, Chief U.S. District Judge Sara Darrow sentenced Raschke to 240 months in prison on each of the three counts. The sentences are to run concurrently, or at the same time. Darrow also ordered Raschke to spend the rest of his life on supervised release after he completes his prison sentence. There is no parole in the federal system. Raschke will receive credit for the time he has spent in custody since his June 7, 2021, arrest. The case began Nov. 9, 2020, when an FBI agent, conducting an operation on Craigslist to identify people attempting to sexually exploit minors, posted an advertisement in the Missed Connections section titled LiL Fun (Rock Island). The next day, Nov. 10, 2020, a user by the name of Hd Harley, later identified as Raschke, began a conversation with the undercover agent who was posing as a man trafficking his 11-year-old daughter. The conversations about arranging a meeting went from Nov. 10, 2020, through June 7, 2021. On that day, Raschke finally went to meet the man and his daughter at a Moline restaurant. When Raschke drove up federal agents surrounded his pickup and took him into custody. The case against Raschke was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Andy Garcia has become the poster boy for phone-it-in films. If hes in the cast, you know its probably not going to be an Oscar winner. Now, the one-time actor-to-watch is in Expend4bles as a CIA operative who assembles the ragtag bunch to take on a terrorist looking to rule the world. Sylvester Stallone and Jason Statham get top billing (as the returning warriors) but the former disappears rather quickly and the latter has to share screen time with a bunch of aspiring action/adventure performers. None of the team is particularly outstanding but at least Jacob Scipio tries to do an impression of Antonio Banderas from Expendables 3. Dolph Lundgren tries to rock a wig but its as lame as the joke that introduces it. Megan Fox is here, too, (as Stathams girlfriend) but shes dressed inappropriately for killing terrorists. Her makeup, in fact, is about as realistic as the films backgrounds. Frequently, it looks like the actors are in their trailers while their stunt doubles are rolling around in front of a green screen. The acting also is pitiful. When one of the gang has a particularly dialogue-heavy scene you can almost see a teleprompter reflected in his eyes. Expend4bles, yes, is aptly titled. Stallone, strutting around like the role model for us all, isnt in the film much, which puts the leadership weight on Stathams shoulders. Hes good with a one-liner but the film doesnt have any. Instead, director Scott Waugh lets him wince and smirk to punctuate sentences that arent there. Largely taking place on a ship (which reduces the films costs) Expend4ables finds someone holed up at all times. The ship has a fleet of motorcycles, too, which makes no sense, and a zipline that gives each star a chance to show his or her particular style. Theres a bedroom scene between Statham and Fox but all it does is call attention to the abs a makeup artist has drawn on his chest. When Stallone and Statham are left alone, they banter nicely like Bob Hope and Bing Crosby in a road picture. Their shared time, however, is short. The rest is given to slow-moving action sequences which show their seams. The bad guys identity isnt all that difficult to guess, either. By culling the herd, you can see whos in this for the long haul. If theres an Expendables 5, pray they hire a writer who could use the work. This plays out like Artificial Intelligence at its worst. A motorcyclist died Wednesday night after a collision between his motorcycle and a car in Bettendorf. The collision happened at 6:49 p.m. at Spruce Hills and Olympia drives, according to the Bettendorf Police Department. Authorities pronounced the motorcyclist dead at the hospital after the crash. The department said he was 21 and from Bettendorf, but withheld further identification pending notification of the mans loved ones. Initial evidence indicates he was driving a 2005 Harley Davidson Sportster eastbound on Spruce Hills Drive, travelling at a high rate of speed. The driver of the car was trying to turn left from Olympia Drive onto Spruce Hills when the collision occurred. The car was a 2022 Honda Accord. The police departments news release did not include further details of the crash, including which vehicle investigators think had the right of way. The investigation into the crash continued Thursday morning, police said. An autopsy was pending. The police ask anyone with information about the crash to contact police Sgt. Patrick Mesick. His telephone number is 563-344-4047. The Iowa State Patrol and the Bettendorf Fire and Public Works departments assisted police officers with the crash. Historic photos: The Lodge, Bettendorf A Bettendorf Police Officers sleuthing that generated information about drugs being sold out of a local hotel has led to the arrest of a Davenport man for allegedly peddling multiple drugs including crack cocaine, heroin and meth out of a room he was renting. David Anthony Jones, 39, is charged with one count of possession with the intent to deliver more than 40 grams of cocaine base, better known as crack. The charge is a Class B felony under Iowa law that carries a prison sentence of 25 years. Jones also is charged with one count each of possession with the intent to deliver cocaine, possession with the intent to deliver less than 5 grams of meth, and possession with the intent to deliver 5 grams or less of heroin. Each of those charges is a Class C felony that carry a prison sentence of 10 years. He also is charged with two counts of possession of a firearm by a felon, one count of trafficking in stolen weapons, one count of possession with the intent to deliver marijuana, and two counts of violating Iowas drug tax stamp law. Each of those charges is a Class D felony that carry a prison sentence of five years. According to the arrest affidavits, several weeks ago a Bettendorf patrol officer generated information about possible drug dealing at the Relax Inn in Davenport. The person doing the dealing went by Ghost. Agents with the Quad-City Metropolitan Enforcement Group, or QCMEG, and investigators with the Davenport Police Department also had information on the man called Ghost. Ghost was identified as Jones, who is originally from the Chicago area and has multiple felony convictions and is a convicted domestic abuser. As the investigation continued with the help of QCMEG and the Davenport Tactical Operations Bureau, Bettendorf detectives attached to the Scott County Sheriff's Department's Special Operations Unit were able to obtain a search warrant for rooms 234 and 235 at the Relax Inn, located at 6310 N. Brady St. On Tuesday, agents with the Special Operations Bureau, Davenport Tactical Operations Bureau and the Davenport Emergency Services Team took Jones into custody and searched his rooms. Located in room 234 was a Ruger 9mm handgun that had been reported stolen out of Davenport, and an unknown model 9mm handgun with an extended magazine that had been seen in Jones possession while he was under surveillance. Also seized from the room was 86 grams of crack cocaine, 8.2 grams of powder cocaine, 1.86 grams of meth, 1.52 grams of heroin, and 9.9 grams of marijuana. During a post-Miranda interview, Jones told officers he sells drugs to pay bills. He told officers that he possesses the guns because of his lifestyle and that the firearms were purchased on the street. Jones was being held Wednesday night in the Scott County Jail on a cash-only bond of $100,000. During a first appearance on the charges Wednesday in Scott County District Court, Magistrate Peter Gierut scheduled a preliminary hearing in the case for Oct. 6. In room 235, officers located Trina M. Gibbs, 42, who is being held on a warrant out of Will County, Illinois. Gibbs was being held Wednesday night in the Scott County Jail on a bond of $10,000, cash or surety. Bettendorf Police Chief Keith Kimball praised the work of all of the officers in the arrest of Jones. This was a culmination of great drug investigation work amongst multiple agencies to bring this to a conclusion and take a drug dealer off the streets, Kimball said. Kimball also said that "crack" appears to be making a comeback as police are noticing that the selling and use of cocaine base is on the rise. Federal authorities could take over Jones' Scott County case under Project Safe Neighborhoods. A federal jury on Tuesday convicted a Davenport man on charges of producing, distributing and possessing child pornography after a two-day trial in U.S. District Court, Davenport. David Michael Woods, 51, was found guilty of two counts of production of child pornography, one count of distribution of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. Woods sexually abused two minor victims in his care and produced recordings of the abuse and other sexual images of the victims that he sent to other people. A sentencing hearing for Woods will be set at a later date. Another man, Jason Richard Heider, 47, of Moline, also was charged in the case with one count each of production of child pornography, receipt of child pornography and possession of child pornography. Heider pleaded guilty on July 20, 2022, to one count each of production of child pornography and receipt of child pornography. A sentencing hearing for Heider will be scheduled at a later date. Production of child pornography carries a prison sentence of 15-30 years, while distribution of child pornography carries a prison sentence of five to 20 years. Possession of child pornography carries a prison sentence of up to 10 years. There is no parole in the federal system. Woods initially was arrested Feb. 16, 2021, by Davenport Police on two counts of third-degree sexual abuse filed against him in Scott County District Court. Each of the charges is a Class C felony under Iowa law that carries a prison sentence of 10 years. The charges stated that Woods sexually abused a 12 year old multiple times between November, 2020 and January, 2021. Shortly after being arrested, Woods was released from the Scott County Jail after posting a $50,000 cash-only bond. Woods was arrested again on June 22, 2021, on two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor involving the same victim. Both of those charges also are Class C felonies. His bond in that case was then set at $500,000, cash only. Heider was arrested Sept. 30, 2021, on a charge of second-degree sexual abuse, a Class B felony that carries a prison sentence of 25 years. According to the arrest affidavit, Heider committed sexual abuse upon a 12 year old, while another person aided and abetted the act by being present and taking photographs of the act. Heider was in possession of a cell phone that had messages admitting to the sex acts with the victim. The messages also discussed another person being present during the sex acts. Heider had been held in the Scott County Jail on a bond of $25,000, cash or surety. On April 19, 2022, both men were arrested after federal authorities took over the cases. Their charges in Scott County were then dismissed. The cases against Woods and Heider were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. With all deadlines met, local school board candidates are officially on the trail for Scott County's regular city/school elections on Tuesday, Nov. 7. Early voting at the Scott County Auditor's Office (600 W 4th St. in Davenport) will begin on Wednesday, Oct. 18 and run until election day, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Early voting will also be available at this location on Saturday, Oct. 28 from 9 a.m. to noon. The following satellite locations will also be open for early voting: Davenport Public Library (3000 N. Fairmount St.): Starting Tuesday, Oct. 24 from 12:30 to 6:30 p.m. Scott County Library (200 N. 6th St. in Eldridge): Starting Wednesday, Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Davenport Public Library (6000 Eastern Ave.): Starting Thursday, Oct. 26 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Bettendorf Public Library (2950 Learning Campus Drive): Starting Friday, Oct. 27 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Here's a first glimpse at school board candidates for Iowa Quad-Cities school districts: Davenport school board With five seats up for election, incumbents occupy most of this race. Board president Dan Gosa, board vice president Karen Kline-Jerome and directors Linda Hayes, Kent Paustian and Kent Barnds are all vying for reelection. Connie King and Andrew Kaufman are also running for a shot at a seat on the Davenport school board. Four seats up for election are for traditional four-year terms, while one is for two years to complete former school board member Karen Gordons term (to which Barnds was appointed in June.) Bettendorf school board Four Bettendorf school board seats are up for election. Rebecca Eastman, the current board president, is running for re-election, as is Joanna Doerder first elected in 2021 and Paul Castro, who touts 22 years of board service. Challenger candidates include Erin Bannerman, Kevin Freking, Patrick Larkin, Ryan McGivern and Mindy Smith-Pace. After seven years of board service, Dr. Michael Pyevich is not running for re-election. To get to know each candidate, visit the districts school board election webpage at https://www.bettendorf.k12.ia.us/page/board-election. Additionally, the district will hold a board candidate forum at Bettendorf High Schools Performing Arts Center (3333 18th Street) on Thursday, Oct. 26 at 6 p.m., moderated by KWQC-TV 6. Pleasant Valley school board For the Pleasant Valley school board, which operates with a director district structure, four seats are up for election, and all but one contested. In Director District 3 Peter Olsen is challenging Dr. Nikhil Wagle, the current school board president. For the Director District 4 ballot, current vice president Molly Brockmann will run against F. Danny Amaya. Amy E. McCabe and Adrienne Wheeler have filed for Director District 5. Jameson Smith runs unopposed for Director District 6. Although current board member Tracey Rivera initially filed for Director District 6, she has since retracted her petition to be on the ballot. North Scott school board With four seats up for election, four incumbents seek to make their return to the North Scott school board, including: Molly Bergfeld, Joni Dittmer, John Maxwell and Carrie Keppy. Meanwhile, Stephanie Eckhardt is the sole non-incumbent candidate in the race. Eastern Iowa Community Colleges board Alongside the local K-12 school districts, Eastern Iowa Community Colleges is also looking to fill seven Board of Trustees seats for the Nov. 7 election. Incumbents Robert H. Gallagher the current board president Michelle L. Garvin and Yuliana Diaz are running for re-election. Joining veteran board members in the race are the following candidates: Allison Ambrose Dianne Prichard Jennifer Hansen Richard J. Phelan To find your voting precinct, or for more information on the upcoming election, visit https://www.scottcountyiowa.gov/auditor and click the "City School Election Nov 7" link (located under "Elections" on the left side of the home page). Editor's Note: Two write-in candidates have also announced. Rivera is running as a write-in candidate for Pleasant Valley Community School District's Director District 6. Additionally, former educator Richard Herrig is running as a write-in candidate for the Bettendorf Community School District. Davenport Mayor Mike Matson plans to form an investigative panel of community members to look into allegations a Davenport alderman made racist comments. Ald. Tim Kelly, 5th Ward, has said a colleague, Ald. Robby Ortiz, 4th Ward, justified the use of a racial slur for Black people in front of Kelly as they and three other aldermen were having an informal conversation after an August council meeting. Matson announced at Wednesday's city council meeting he would appoint a panel of "respected community members" to investigate the incident. "We condemn all derogatory and inappropriate comments, racial slurs, or any negative comments directed to anyone, especially our protected class citizens," Matson said. "Divisive rhetoric is absolutely wrong." It's unclear yet who would be on the panel or how it would operate. Matson told the Quad-City Times/Dispatch-Argus Wednesday evening he was in the process of forming the panel and would disclose the members when it was put together. Ortiz, reading a short statement, said, "I'm appalled by the allegations that have recently been brought forth regarding racial comments." Ortiz noted he was of Spanish-Hispanic descent. "The people of Davenport deserve to know the truth and I look forward to a full investigation conducted by an unbiased third party and promise to cooperate fully," Ortiz said. Kelly questioned the need for an investigation as he said three other aldermen were present for the conversation. "So, an investigation on something that was (with) five people there with three witnesses," Kelly said. "Notice, I don't have a speech written. I'm speaking from my heart because this happened to me." Kelly said Matson approached him right after the past week's meeting, "when I was emotional, and I've never heard from him since." "It was too much going on in my head. So, do I have text messages? Nope. Phone calls? Nope. Emails? No," Kelly said. "So, there are three witnesses that if you guys want to corroborate stories with them now, that's cool." "I'm telling you what happened. I was there and it happened," Kelly said. Kelly also said Ald. Rick Dunn referred to another person during the August conversation as a "fine colored gentleman." Kelly raised his allegations in the weeks following a hearing in which aldermen voted 7-3 to remove Derek Cornette from the 7th Ward seat on Sept. 7. Kelly was one of the aldermen who voted against the removal. In that hearing, city staff presented video, voicemails and staff testimony that Cornette had appeared intoxicated at meetings, had inappropriately addressed female employees using pet names and grabbed a female employee's hand and called her his "baby mama" despite warnings. Cornette has filed a lawsuit for wrongful removal. His lawyers argue he wasn't given a fair hearing and there weren't official complaints filed against Cornette. Cornette also alleges in court filings another alderman used profanity at him after he greeted her. Close Davenport Alderman Robby Ortiz, 4th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman Tim Kelly, 5th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman Derek Cornette, 7th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman James "JJ" Condon, At Large, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderwoman Judith Lee, 8th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman Ben Jobgen, 6th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderwoman Marion Meginnis, 3rd Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman Rick Dunn, 1st Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Mayor Mike Matson is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport mayor, new council sworn in Surrounded by family and friends, Davenport Mayor Mike Matson and eight council members, Alderman Rick Dunn, 1st Ward, Alderwoman Marion Meginnis, 3rd Ward, Alderman Robby Ortiz, 4th Ward, Alderman Tim Kelly, 5th Ward, Alderman Ben Jobgen, 6th Ward, Alderman Derek Cornette, 7th Ward, and Alderwoman Judith Lee, 8th Ward, and Alderman James "JJ" Condon, At Large, were sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Alderwoman Maria Dickmann, 2nd Ward, and Alderman Kyle Gripp, At Large, will be sworn in next week by Matson. Davenport Alderman Robby Ortiz, 4th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman Tim Kelly, 5th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman Derek Cornette, 7th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman James "JJ" Condon, At Large, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderwoman Judith Lee, 8th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman Ben Jobgen, 6th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderwoman Marion Meginnis, 3rd Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman Rick Dunn, 1st Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Mayor Mike Matson is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Rukhshana, September 26, 2023 Fears are growing of the Talibans moves to expand extremist religious schools in Afghanistan, with more buildings allegedly being claimed for this purpose. In the latest move, residents of a girls hostel linked to Herat University have been forced by Taliban authorities to immediately vacate the building. Local sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity, say the Taliban administration wants to turn the premises into a religious school. While another source told Rukhshana Media that an employee of the hostel said the eviction was due to the residents lack of proper hijab. Hostel resident Haseeba* told Rukhshana Media the residents were ordered to vacate on Sunday by members of the Talibans Vice and Virtue department in Herat province. The hostel is closed. We have just left it, Haseeba said in a recorded audio message. We packed our belongings, but the Vice and Virtue guys did not allow us to take them out of the hostel. In the message, she added that there were about ten Vice and Virtue employees in the hostel telling residents that if they want to pick up their belongings, they were to apply to collect them through Herat University. An official reason for the eviction has not been given. Most of the residents living in the girls hostel were from other provinces all over Afghanistan studying at Herat University. After the Taliban banned university education for girls in December 2022, many returned home but their belongings were kept at the hostel in the hope that the ban would be lifted and they would return. Since taking power in Afghanistan over two years ago, the Taliban have been slowly building more religious schools across the country. The Talibans acting Minister of Education Mawlawi Noorullah Munir said in a speech in Logar province on April 24 that huge jihadi schools will be established in each province and three to ten religious elementary schools in each district. Two buildings of the Herat teacher training center were turned into jihadist schools in April. Before the Taliban takeover in August 2021, more than four thousand men and women had been studying teaching in the center. During their meeting earlier this month, Chadron City Council was introduced to Chadrons newest officer, two-year-old purebred German Shepherd Sukey. Handler Seth Orsborn said Sukey has been working in Chadron since Aug. 26, after the two had a couple weeks of training in Ashland, Ohio. Of the training, Orsborn said the very first day the officers were given their dogs. For the two weeks, officers resided in a hotel with the animals to create more bonding. Officers were also given instruction to hand feed the animals. The day-to-day included riding with the dogs in the cars, and doing narcotic detection and tracking around the hotel and other locations including the local fairgrounds and air field. Sukey is trained to alert to cocaine, methamphetamine, crystal meth, heroin, PCP, Fentanyl, Psilocybin, and MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy. Shes not trained to detect marijuana, as current trends indicate the drug could become legal in Nebraska. Should that happen, Sukey would alert on a legal substance. Orsborn said it is possible to de-train the dogs so they no longer alert to certain substances, but the decision was ultimately made to skip marijuana because Sukey is the first K-9 in Chadron and will become more than just a dog on the street they would have to retire. On October 9, Orsborn will head to Grand Island for Nebraska State Patrol certification, as required by Nebraska policy. While hes had a chance to use Sukey, he hasnt been able to yet, per the same policy. As soon as the certifications complete, Orsborn expects shell be getting out of his vehicle frequently. For now, shes still riding along. Sukeys drive is very high, Orsborn said, and the two have gotten close pretty quickly. He noted he already had a yellow lab, Roscoe, at home, and the two dogs get along great. That was a real surprise and a blessing for me. Every day, Orsborn does 1-3 hours of training with Sukey, even on his day off. This includes multiple drug hides. He further explained filter paper is put inside a jar with a drug. The paper collects the scent of the drug, and is then put in a key box on a car or building. Sukey is able to alert off the scent without the actual drug being there. Tracking training utilizes well-worn articles of clothing Orsborn puts in a weed sprayer with a couple gallons of distilled water. This water, which lasts about a week, is then sprayed on a search track, and Sukey again puts her nose to work to follow it. Orsborn added Hell sometimes drop an article of clothing, which Sukey alerts to for evidence training, and he changes up the surfaces from grass to roadway to dirt. When not working, Sukeys favorite thing to do is play fetch, and she has an enclosed outdoor kennel with a heater as needed. She can also go inside the house as well. Sukey remains in Orsborns vehicle at all times when working. Orsborn explained this is a strategy, as every time Sukey gets out its to train, to work, to go home or to answer the call of nature. If she were brought into the station a lot of the time to just socialize, then on an actual stop she might get confused. If I make a traffic stop, Orsborn said, the last thing I want her to think is that its social hour, and to greet people. As soon as she gets out of that car she is 100% go, go, go. Orsborn has been visiting with School Resource Officer Derek Bauer about Sukeys use at the public schools, and he plans to reach out to the college as well. UPDATE (9/28/23): Robert Yellowbird has been apprehended in Rapid City. The RCPD extended their appreciation to the Pennington County Sheriff's Office, the US Marshals Service, the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office, and Parole Services for their assistance in Yellowbird's apprehension. The Minnehaha County Sheriffs Office is requesting the publics assistance in locating Robert Yellowbird, 18, a wanted parole absconder with a warrant for second-degree escape out of Minnehaha County. Yellowbird was last seen in the area of 465th Avenue and 264th Street in Sioux Falls on Sept. 25, when walked away from a facility with three other juvenile males. He was last seen wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and black pants. A black 2017 Ford F-150 bearing South Dakota plate number 1FY 720 was stolen from the area. The Minnehaha County Sheriffs Office believes Yellowbird may be traveling in the vehicle. It is believed Yellowbird is armed and should be considered dangerous. Anyone with information regarding the current whereabouts of Yellowbird or the stolen Ford F-150, please call 911 to notify local law enforcement. Any other information please contact the Minnehaha County Sheriffs Office at 605-367-7000 or CrimeStoppers at 605-367-7007. Celebrate Black Hills harvested honey at Wild Spruce Market, a specialty food and product retailer, during Honey at Wild Spruce on Fri., Sept. 29 from 12 to 4 p.m. The event will take place at the market, located at 447 Mount Rushmore Road in Custer. The store will provide free samples and takeaway recipes of snacks made with honey. Learn about honey production and get questions answered from a local honey farmer. Customers can enjoy 10% off all South Dakota honey purchases and find specials on products such as a Cafe Miel, a coffee drink with honey and Crow Peak Cream Ale, brewed with local honey. Children are also invited to stop and enjoy a scavenger hunt and crafts. Prior to the event, the store will release a coloring contest with different age divisions. The market will reveal the winners at the event, awarding them a special honey-themed prize. This Fresher is Fun event is the third of eight retail store events in the state promoting the purchasing of South Dakota grown specialty crops. The event is sponsored by the South Dakota Specialty Producers Association through the Specialty Crop Block Grant program overseen by the South Dakota Dept. of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Specialty crops include honey, as well as products like produce, jellies and pickles. These locally grown products are fresh, flavorful and fun, and when you buy them, you are supporting producers, grocers and co-ops that support our local economy. According to the DANR, there are 185 South Dakotans keeping bees in the state, with around 100 of these maintaining their bees for commercial honey production. South Dakota usually ranks in the top five states in the nation for total number of colonies. Several producers provide Wild Spruce Market with raw, pure honey, a product with a more creamy texture since it is not purified. Black Hills Gold of Custer provides raw, pure honey and the producer will attend at the event. The market sells honey that includes beeswax, propolis and bee pollen as well as lip balms, chest rub, temple rub, salve and other beauty products from Black Hills Honey Farm of Spearfish. They also carry raw, pure honey from 3 Queens Honey of New Underwood. The market provides a convenient way to access a variety of local specialty crops and niche products at one location. In addition to honey, Wild Spruce Market offers other local specialty crops including vegetables, goats milk soap, eggs, cheese, butter, bison, lamb, goat and beef. In addition to the retail offerings, the market houses an espresso bar with locally roasted coffee and five local brews on tap and local wine and kombucha. Trevor Wayne Harrison of Yankton was sentenced Monday in Yankton County Circuit Court to 85 years in prison, with 20 years suspended, after he pled guilty to one count of first degree manslaughter. Harrison was indicted in the 2022 shooting death of his former girlfriend at a Yankton home. He later pled guilty to the one charge. Harrison will also pay restitution. This sentence brings resolution to a violent crime and perhaps some comfort to the victims family, said South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley. I want to thank all of the law enforcement officers and prosecutors who worked to bring justice in this case. Agencies involved in the investigation were the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and Yankton Police Department. Prosecution of the case was handled by the South Dakota Attorney Generals Office and Yankton County States Attorneys Office. There is an annual rite that has to end. The rash of deadly incidents in recent weeks involving grizzly bear-human encounters are instructive as to why you need to carry bear spray, know how to use it and have it readily available. Near Whitefish, hunters scouting out land run into a grizzly bear in thick brush and shoot it, one wounding the other man in the shoulder. In the Tom Miner Basin near Yellowstone fishermen encounter a grizzly in thick brush and shoot it. Outside West Yellowstone a jogger was tragically killed in thick forest. No bear spray was found. Near Big Sky hunters follow a deer into thick forest where they encounter a small bear and then a large female grizzly. One man is seriously injured by the grizzly while another attempted to shoot the bear with a rifle which mis-fired. He said he didnt have time to get his bear spray out of his backpack. In eastern Idaho two hunters encounter a grizzly in thick brush and shoot it. The common denominator in these incidents is that no bear spray was used or accessible despite persistent warnings. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks issued a bulletin on Aug. 30 titled Hunters Must Expect to See Bears, which begins with: Grizzly bears have the potential to be found anywhere in the western two-thirds of Montana (west of Billings), and their distribution is denser and more widespread than in previous years. Some areas with dense concentrations of grizzly bears are very accessible to hunters, especially during the archery season. Their leading recommendation is to carry bear spray. Armed bear managers say they go for the bear spray first because it is more effective. A bullet travels a narrow pathway and under extreme stress most people dont have the training or experience to aim accurately. Bear spray creates a cloud that has been proven effective at deterring or ending bear attacks. At this time of year when hunters begin taking the field they must be aware and prepared for the possibility of encountering a grizzly bear. Archery hunters are especially vulnerable due to the tendency of using thick brush for cover, silent stealthy movements, use of scents to cover human smells and hunting alone. Hunters are particularly vulnerable while skinning and butchering harvested animals. Bear spray must be out of its holster and ready for deployment. If possible, a lookout should be posted while in this process. Hunters also need to be aware that gut piles left by other hunters will attract grizzly bears who may defend them. Running in grizzly habitat is a bad idea and even when near residential areas one must be prepared as some people have very poor food and garbage practices to which grizzly bears can become habituated and will return to take risks to obtain an easy meal. This issue is not new to bear managers. Conservation groups petitioned the Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission in 2018 to develop an Administrative Rule requiring hunters to carry bear spray. There were 13 hunter-related defense-of-life grizzly bear kills within the borders of Montana in 2017 alone, an alarming statistic. Despite these facts, they punted by saying that it is the responsibility of the Legislature. Its time to require that people hunting and recreating on public lands off-road in grizzly habitat carry bear spray, know how to use it and have it immediately available. Sponsors in the state Senate and House of Representatives are being sought. Until then, play it safe and smart in bear country and carry bear spray, which is proven to be effective at deterring attacks. The Bitterroot Public Library is hosting an open house for homeschooling families on Saturday, Sept. 30. Bitterroot Public Library Youth Services Director Annika Riley said this is the third year for the Homeschool Open House. I feel this is something important to offer to our community, Riley said. Our homeschool population is growing like crazy and I just want to make these families aware that they are not alone in the adventure of homeschooling. I want to give these families a chance to meet each other, share thoughts and exchange ideas. The networking opportunity happens at BPL from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Riley will have several speakers at the event to answer questions and share their experiences. Key speaker will be Janet Steele from Montanans Assembling Together for Christian Home Education (MATCHE), a homeschool support ministry for the Bitterroot Valley of western Montana. Find out more at matcheonline.com. She will be there doing a Q & A so anybody who comes with any questions she will probably be able to answer them, Riley said. Shell also talk about the legalities of homeschooling, like how to register with the state. Also speaking will be experienced homeschool parents to share what has worked best for them in educating their children. There will be a time at the end just to network and have refreshments. The open house begins with a tour of the Bitterroot Public Library. Ill welcome everybody, greet everybody and talk about all the library has to offer including our physical materials and our digital resources, Riley said. I just want to make them aware that there is more than what they see they just have to ask. The library has 35 partner libraries across the state and Riley said she would consider ordering specific resources, especially if they are needed in a timely manner. [At the open house] Ill have different things set out for families to take, Riley said. Ill have our fall brochure that lists programs that we are offering for September, October and November. Ill have library card applications set out. Ill have the Dolly Parton Imagination Library application set out so that people with real littles will know about that. Plus, a little bit of swag. She has added resources to the library along the interests of homeschooling like teaching Beginning Reading, a variety of board games for checkout that encourage learning to read and take-home learning kits. Families are saying they are studying mythology and asked me to put together a mythology kit, Riley said. I had so much fun putting together a mythology kit. Those kits include books, movies, and activity guides. I have a family tree poster available for the Greek gods, its really fun. Riley said that one of the main reasons she is holding the homeschool open house is the number of people coming to her for guidance to resources. I have taken it upon myself to know where families can get curriculums, she said. Ive learned where to direct these families and how we can help them at the library. I help people from babies to age 18. Its fun and interesting because it is such a huge patronage. Ive learned a lot of what parents want and the questions they have. I feel ready to answer them. She said unschooling is the new word for families selecting alternative learning for their families. It is taking everything you think you know about what school should look like and getting rid of that and making it what fits your family, lifestyle, travel, or beliefs, Riley said. Not everyone thinks that way. Im also learning there are super-religious families, super-secular families and everything in between. She said families are welcome to take her resources and adjust them to fit their needs. For more information, contact Annika Riley, Youth Services Librarian, at 406-363-1670 or email her at youthservices@bitterrootpubliclibrary.org. She is available at BPL from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Friday and at the Homeschool Open House from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 30. The Bitterroot Public Library is located at 306 State St. in Hamilton, or online at bitterrootpubliclibrary.org. Montana Governor Greg Gianforte made stops in Stevensville and Hamilton on Tuesday in an effort to highlight local businesses in the Bitterroot Valley. We like to celebrate Montana businesses, Gianforte said. These are really the backbone of Montana, and it's great to be able to celebrate it. The governor attended a tour and ribbon-cutting ceremony for Alpha Loading Systems expanded facility in Stevensville. The ammunition machine manufacturer has been in business since 1999 and recently expanded its operation to accommodate an increase in demand. The expansion will allow Alpha Loading Systems to triple its workforce capacity. Were very excited about the future, Alpha Loading Systems CEO Rick Ruebusch said. We have the product, we have the people, and we now have a beautiful new facility to make it all happen. Gianforte praised the business for its innovation, citing that 30% percent of the equipment manufactured at the Stevensville site is shipped out of the country. Boy, that's impressive, he said. What an innovative business. We have 150 firearms and ammunition manufacturing companies in Montana. That's more firearms industry companies per capita than any other state in the country. The governor later met with local legislators and business leaders over lunch at Naps Bar and Grill in Hamilton, where he was able to talk with constituents about the pressures and concerns facing local businesses in the Bitterroot Valley. Gianforte discussed a range of issues including forest management and the Bitterroot Front Project, but housing was of key concern. We talked extensively over lunch about the steps we have been taking to make housing more affordable, Gianforte said. The Homes Act, we put $105 million into low interest loans for communities like Hamilton to put water and sewer in four new subdivisions that are oriented towards a workforce housing. Now you can put a duplex anywhere you can put a single-family home. You can add accessory dwelling units. You can rent out on an apartment to somebody maybe for a starting nurse or teacher. So these are important steps, but we still have more work to do. Following lunch, the governor made a stop at Verns Landscaping in Hamilton, meeting with business owner Vern Eckstein and his employees along with Michael Jessop of J5 Construction. Eckstein said he was honored to have Gianforte stop for a business and was hoping to talk with him about issues that affect his staff, such as housing and unemployment. He's a working man you just don't see that in today's politicians, Eckstein said. Were all discouraged. On a national level we're discouraged. On a local level we can be discouraged, but I feel very lucky to have Governor G as my governor. Like many seasonal businesses in Montana, Eckstein said his nursery and landscaping staff rely on unemployment during the winter months to get by. But navigating the system can be difficult and can affect employee retention at a time when finding employees in general has become a challenge. The high cost of housing and lack of availability have also made it hard to hold on to staff, he said. Our big issue is just the employees, period, Eckstein said. I noticed last week, two restaurants in Missoula are shutting down. Is it because of their service to their food? No, it's because they don't have employees and they can't keep the wheel turning, and that's an issue. We pay a fair wage, a living wage at our nursery and our landscape company but there's no guarantees. I used to have a list of 10 or 15 people wanting to work for our company. I haven't had anyone submit an application in months. Jessop said hes had similar problems finding employees in the valley for his construction company as well, which he attributes to a lack of interest in the trades industries. I had an application (advertisement) for a driver and an operator for three months, he said. I never got one application. Gianforte listened to concerns as they toured the landscaping business, and related to their struggles as business owners, later saying it was a great discussion about whats going on in the valley. It's so important that I get out and visit with folks, Gianforte said. I do my 56-county tour every year, and it's great to be back in Ravalli. A District Court judge in Helena on Wednesday issued a temporary restraining order stalling a new law requiring abortion providers to be licensed, because the state health department has not yet established a licensing program with which providers could comply by the Oct. 1 start date. The legal challenge against House Bill 937 is not over: A temporary restraining order blocks the new law from taking effect until further arguments on a lengthier injunction, which would put the brakes on that law over the duration of the case. In his decision Wednesday, Lewis and Clark County District Court Judge Christopher Abbott set a hearing for those arguments for Oct. 30. Blue Mountain Clinic of Missoula and All Families Healthcare of Whitefish earlier this month sought the restraining order, arguing the new law requires providers to comply with a licensure program the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services had not yet stood up. Helen Weems, an abortion provider and the founder of All Families Healthcare, is also a plaintiff in the lawsuit. Attorneys for the state argued the legal challenge was premature, because enforcement mechanisms had likewise not yet been established to enforce the licensure matter. "The problem," Abbott wrote in Wednesday's order, "is that Providers are not yet licensed by the Department, and everyone agrees they cannot get a license by Oct. 1." Abortion providers lauded the order late Wednesday. "Todays decision is critical for people accessing abortion care in Montana, and a defeat against extremist lawmakers who are seeking to ban abortion by any means," Aileen Gleizer of Blue Mountain Clinic said in a press release. "The temporary restraining order will allow our clinics to continue to provide high-quality abortion care." The Attorney General's Office looks forward to presenting their arguments to defend the law, spokesperson Emilee Cantrell said in an email Thursday. Abbott's order was the second in a single day to stall a new law from taking effect on an Oct. 1 start date. In Missoula, District Court Judge Jason Marks issued a preliminary injunction on a ban on gender-affirming care, passed by the Legislature in Senate Bill 99, from becoming law while that bill is under legal challenge from two transgender children, their parents and two medical providers. Kathmandu, Nepal, September 28, 2023: Nepal Police have confiscated 4 kg of illegal gold from Singti in Dolakha, bordering area to Tibet. According to the District Police Office, Dolakha, four biscuit-sized materials, which look like gold, have been recovered and sent in Kathmandu for testing. Kathmandu, Nepal, September 28, 2023: Indra Jatra is being celebrated as a special festival in some districts, particularly in Kathmandu, valley on Thursday. On the occasion of this festival, the government has given a public holiday in Kathmandu Valley to celebrate the festival. Indra Jatra festival that falls every year on the day of Bhadra Shukla Chaturdashi used to be celebrated mostly in the three districts of Kathmandu valley-Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur. On the occasion of Indra Jatra, devotees used to worship the living goddess Kumari after erecting a lingo, a sacred wooden pole, in front of Hanumanthodka on Bhadra shukla Dwadashi with religious processions. 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Some families who came back stopped for a moment of reflection and others looked for mementos they might want to collect, said Darryl Oliveira, interim administrator of the Maui Emergency Management Agency. By midmorning, about 16 residents' vehicles entered the burned area, he said. "They're very appreciative to get in here, something they've all been waiting anxiously for," Oliveira said. "People who haven't been here since the fire are taken aback by the amount of and extent of the destruction." The prospect of returning stirred strong emotions in residents who fled in vehicles or on foot as wind-whipped flames raced across Lahaina, the historic capital of the former Hawaiian kingdom, and overcame people stuck in traffic trying to escape. The Aug. 8 wildfire killed at least 97 people and destroyed more than 2,000 buildings, most of them homes. Some survivors jumped over a sea wall and sheltered in the waves as hot black smoke blotted out the sun. Officials urged returning residents not to sift through the ashes for fear of raising toxic dust. The first area to be cleared for reentry was a zone of about two dozen parcels in the northern part of Lahaina. Those returning were given water, shade, washing stations, portable toilets, medical and mental health care, and transportation assistance if needed. Nonprofit groups also offered personal protective equipment, including masks and coveralls. Officials said ash could contain asbestos, lead, arsenic or other toxins. Oliveira said officials wanted to ensure residents had space and privacy to reflect or grieve. Most journalists were confined to an area outside the burn zone. A team of more than two dozen people from Samaritan's Purse, a nondenominational Christian ministry, helped some people sort through what was left of their homes to find keepsakes and begin to recover, said Todd Taylor, who works with the organization. A bakery selling all oatmeal cream pies, all the time, is headed for Shockoe Bottom at 3 N. 17th St. Its called OMG OCPs, which is short for: Oh my God, oatmeal cream pies. OMG is what people say when they taste it, owner Erin Kennedy said with a laugh. Kennedy started making oatmeal cream pies out of her home kitchen as a side project and the business quickly took off from there. Shes been selling at farmers markets around town for two years and left her job in a nonprofit to pursue OMG OCPs full time. Local shops Union Market and Outpost also carry OMG OCPs. Now, shes taking her oatmeal cream pie creations to the next step: a shop that only sells oatmeal cream pies. Imagine going into a donut shop, where you can grab a glazed or a dozen. Here, its the same concept. You can grab one oatmeal cream pie to take to work or a dozen, Kennedy said. OMG OCPs are $4.25 per cookie, six packs are $25 and a dozen are $45. Flavors comes in original, chocolate dipped, mint chocolate, cinnamon chip, sweet heat, oatmeal raisin, peanut butter and chocolate peanut butter, as well as a few gluten free options. While $4.25 might sound pricey for a cookie, the oatmeal cream pies are actually two cookies with a cream cheese filling. For comparison, a scoop of ice cream at local independent ice cream shops runs around $5, Kennedy noted, which puts her cream pies on par with those handcrafted items, she said. OMG OCPs is set to host its grand opening at 3 N. 17th St. on Oct. 7. *** Growing up, Kennedy lived next door to her uncle David, who was born with a brain tumor that caused developmental disabilities. They had a tight bond and shared a love of Little Debbie oatmeal cream pies. We were very close, and when he unexpectedly passed away from medical complications in 1997, I was only in the 10th grade. My heart broke, Kennedy said. Years passed and not one time did I see a Little Debbie OCP box and not think of David. Kennedy spent several years traveling around the world. When she returned home, she worked a variety of office jobs, including at the Richmond Times-Dispatch in the advertising department, followed by a stint at a nonprofit. While she didnt consider herself a baker, on a whim, she tried her hand at making her own oatmeal cream pies. I spent six hours on that first batch and messed the recipe up royally, she said. She took her oatmeal cream pies to a pot luck and was surprised at how many positive comments she received. She kept making the original version and sharing them with friends and family for seven years. But in 2020, during the height of the pandemic, she started experimenting. She dipped the oatmeal cream pies in chocolate and added peanut butter to the icing. I played with a few flavors and gave them out for the holidays, Kennedy said. In 2021, she posed a question to her Facebook friends, If I actually did this, would you buy them? Within an hour, I had orders for 13 dozen. Then a friend on the PTA wanted 96 individually wrapped ones for Teacher Appreciation Day. I thought this could actually be a business if its that easy. And its been that easy ever since, Kennedy said. Kennedys oatmeal cream pies are a nostalgic item with an upscale twist. The filling is cream cheese based and tastes a little bit like a dense ice cream. The cookies are baked to have crispy edges but gooey centers. Kennedy recommends eating the pies cold or from the freezer. Located in the former home of Cafe Beignet, the new OMG OCPs space is sleek and modern with a bright teal accent wall and a case for oatmeal pies. Kennedy is planning to partner with SOAR365 to employ people with disabilities, as a nod to her uncle and their shared bond. Shes also hoping to launch new flavors and bring back special flavors in the new space, such as caramel apple, maple bacon and chocolate sea salt. Shes also thinking of getting a confectionary license from Virginia ABC to do an Irish cream oatmeal cream pie or a margarita version. OMG OCPs will serve coffee from New Kents Bugle Call Coffee, including a cold brew and an OMG OCP flavored coffee. It will also serve Ninja Kombucha and Owl Spoon Water Kefir Co. beverages on tap. OMG OCPs is planning to open in the morning for the early crowd from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. on weekdays, although the shop will be closed on Tuesdays. On the weekends, OMG OCPs will be open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. on Saturday and noon-8 p.m. on Sunday. Although Kennedy said shell be evaluating the hours and may change them to best serve the neighborhood. For now, shes focused on the grand opening on Oct. 7. Its a new take on a nostalgic item that I hope everybody is going to love as much as I do, she said. Top 5 things to do this week in the Richmond region Dachtoberfest Grace Potter Run Richmond 16.19 Richmond International Film Fest Patti LaBelle Richmond police are investigating after a man was shot and killed Thursday morning while boarding a Greater Richmond Transit Company bus in South Richmond. Officers responded to the intersection of Cowardin Avenue and Hull Street for reports of a shooting at around 7:27 a.m. Thursday, police said. At the scene, they found an adult male lying on the pavement near the rear door of a GRTC bus, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The state medical examiner will determine the cause and manner of death. The mans identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. Detectives determined that the man was not on the bus, but was shot as he prepared to board, according to Richmond police spokesperson James Mercante. GRTC representatives said the bus involved in the incident was the southbound route 3A bus serving stop 794 at Cowardin Avenue and Hull Street. No passengers or employees were injured in the shooting, the representatives said, but the bus was removed from service due to proximity and per policy. The company advised customers to expect delays along the route as police investigated the scene. Police said the southbound lanes of Richmond Highway were shut down Thursday morning as police investigated. Detectives were able to collect and review footage from security cameras onboard the bus and at nearby businesses, but would like to speak with passengers who may have gotten off the bus and left the scene, police said. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective P. Ripley at (804) 646-0423 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous. From the Archives: Richmond buildings that are no longer around NASHVILLE, Tenn. For months, Carlton Clemons endured crippling pain from a rotting wisdom tooth. He couldnt sleep, barely ate and relied on painkillers to get by. The 67-year-old from Nashville, Tennessee, could not afford to see a dentist on the $1,300-a-month his family gets in Social Security and disability payments. So he waited for the state to roll out a program this year that offers dental care to the more than 650,000 Medicaid recipients like him who are 21 and older. Tennessee is spending about $75 million annually on the program. Man, I thought I had made it to heaven because the pain was over, he said after the tooth was pulled in July at the Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry. When they did pull it out, I was so happy. I was so glad. Everything just changed after that. His wife, Cindy, who also is on Medicaid, has had her teeth pulled at the clinic. Medicaid, the federal and state health insurance program for the poor, requires states to provide dental coverage for children but not adults. But with a growing recognition of the economic and health costs of poor dental health and an influx of federal pandemic dollars, six states began or expanded their Medicaid programs this year to provide coverage for adults. Access remains difficult in many of those states with some dentists refusing to treat Medicaid patients. Even those who want to expand their practice are finding themselves caught up in red tape. Dr. Victor Wu, the chief medical officer for Tennessees Medicaid program, said he was pleased with the rollout of Medicaid dental benefits that started in January, but he acknowledges the state needs to build out its network and increase the participation rate among dentists. While dental care often is seen as routine, the poor often go without any care for years or even decades. Doing so has significant costs, both to taxpayers and to those who cannot afford treatment. One study from Texas A&M University found that treatment for preventable dental conditions represents up to 2.5% of emergency room visits, at a cost of $2 billion a year. An additional $45 billion is lost year in productivity in the United States annually from untreated oral disease, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. You put off care and you get sicker and then it becomes a crisis where youre missing work or you end up going to the emergency department where you get a big bill and you dont get the tooth actually taken care of, said Dr. Rhonda Switzer-Nadasdi, the chief executive officer of Interfaith Dental Clinic which has offices in Nashville and Murfreesboro, Tennessee. You need good teeth to have good employment, Switzer-Nadasdi said. All states provide some Medicaid dental benefits for adults, but some limit it to only specific segments of the population, like pregnant women or those who have intellectual disabilities, or cover only emergency care, according to CareQuest Institute for Oral Health, a nonprofit that advocates for expanded dental care. Hawaii, Tennessee, Kentucky, Michigan, Maryland and New Hampshire were the latest to begin or expand their dental coverage; they did so this year. In New Hampshire, the state is spending $33.4 million over 12 months to provide dental care to its 88,000 Medicaid recipients. There is an increasing understanding that oral health is inseparable from health care, said New Hampshire Democratic Rep. Joe Schapiro, who was the prime sponsor of the expanded dental benefits bill. The amount of money spent on other health care problems that are related to oral health and the amount of money spent on emergency care when people cant get any kind of preventive or restorative care is not only unfortunate for those peoples health but cost a tremendous amount of money. In Kentucky, Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear pressed ahead with emergency regulations ensuring that about 900,000 Kentuckians would continue having access to dental care after the Republican-led legislature rejected his proposal. We are focused on removing roadblocks that prevent people from getting back into the workforce, and this program does just that, he said. Virginia expanded its Medicaid program in 2021, budgeting $282 million for the 2022 and 2023 fiscal years to cover dental procedures for more than a million recipients. Last year, Kansas gave dental access to nearly 137,000 Medicaid recipients at a cost of $3.5 million in 2022 and $1.2 million in 2023. While advocates are welcoming these changes, Texas, Alabama, Mississippi, Utah and Louisiana still only offer limited benefits. Even as states add dental coverage, millions of beneficiaries are being culled from the Medicaid program nationwide as part of a review of eligibility, something states were prohibited from doing during the pandemic. Some Richmond voters received a confusing packet from the citys General Registrar outdated instructions for mailing in an absentee vote that say a witnesss signature is needed on the envelope, and an envelope with no space for a witness to sign. Virginia law no longer requires a witness to sign the envelope containing an absentee ballot. A look at the small print on the bottom corner gives a clue to the mystery: the form is dated August 2021. Legislation that took effect July 1 of this year, following a unanimous House of Delegates vote and a 35-4 Senate vote, removed the requirement for a witness signature. But people voting by mail must fill in their year of birth and the last four digits of their Social Security number. Richmond General Registrar Keith Balmer said that a clerical error meant that one part of the instructions for completing an absentee ballot may have had outdated information on witness signatures. We have already ordered postcards to be sent to those who may have already received these ballots, clarifying that the witness signature is no longer required, he said. Balmer noted that the other instructions his office sent out, including the instructions printed directly on the absentee ballot envelope, do not have this error. And, he added, there is no place for a witness signature on the ballot envelope. The State Department of Elections has not heard of any similar instances, spokeswoman Andrea Gaines said. She said voters with any questions about absentee voting can contact the state department or visit its website page about absentee voting at https://www.elections.virginia.gov/casting-a-ballot/early-absentee/ Photos: Election Day 2022 in Central Virginia Virginias state-owned liquor monopoly is losing its leader, nearly six years after it transitioned from a state agency to a semi-independent authority with more freedom to make its own business decisions. Travis Hill, who joined the old Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control in 2014 as its chief operating officer, said Thursday that he will step down as CEO of the new ABC Authority next month, with no plans yet for the future. Its just time for me to try something else, he said in an interview with the Richmond Times-Dispatch. You cant figure out what youre going to do next and do a job like this. The authority came under pressure this year from Gov. Glenn Youngkin and his appointees to cut operating costs and deliver more profit to the state budget, but Hill, 45, said he is leaving on his own terms. Its my decision and my timing, he said. ABC Board Chairman Tim Hugo, a former Republican delegate appointed by Youngkin to the job early this year, praised the work that Hill has done in nine years at the authority, including the construction of a new distribution warehouse and headquarters in Hanover County after decades on Hermitage Road in Richmond. Over the past nine years, Travis has helped ABC navigate the complex transition from a department to an authority, led the push to modernize operations and established a new state-of-the-art distribution center, said Hugo, who represented a Fairfax-based district in the House of Delegates for 17 years and sought the GOP nomination for lieutenant governor two years ago. Under his leadership, ABC has significantly increased its contribution to the Virginia General Fund for important programs and services for all Virginians. Hill came to ABC three years after the General Assembly rejected a proposal by then-Gov. Bob McDonnell to privatize the state liquor monopoly, which Virginia established in 1934 at the end of Prohibition to control alcohol sales in the state. But the decision to keep that monopoly was driven primarily by the profits that ABC generates for the state general fund budget, which pays for such essential services as education, health care and public safety. McDonnell could not find a politically palatable way to replace those profits, which reached $220.6 million in the fiscal year that ended June 30. The profit level was projected to rise to $223 million in the fiscal year that began July 1, but Hugo and Youngkins chief transformation officer, Eric Moeller, pushed for $21 million in cuts to operating costs, which boosted the states take to $244.3 million in the budget that the authority adopted Aug. 22. Some leaders in industries that depend on alcohol sales raised concerns about the potential effects of the cuts on staffing at ABC stores and enforcement of state liquor laws, as well as ongoing modernization of antiquated operating systems and promotion of their products. We feel like some of the modernization at ABC has been good for our members, said Eric Terry, president of the Virginia Restaurant, Lodging and Travel Association, on Thursday. We hope that continues. Hill was appointed deputy secretary of agriculture under two governors McDonnell, a Republican, and Gov. Terry McAuliffe, a Democrat who then moved him to ABC in a bid to modernize its operations and boost sales to $1 billion a year. It has long surpassed that goal and is projected to exceed $1.5 billion in sales in this fiscal year. In the past nine years, ABC has delivered more than $4 billion in profits and taxes to the state. At the same time, the assembly gave ABC permission to invest some of its earnings in new information technology systems and sell its property in Richmond, which Virginia Commonwealth University purchased last year for $15.7 million. The new headquarters and distribution warehouse opened two years ago in eastern Hanover. Together, through dedicated staff and board members, we built a modernized authority that generated significant revenue for Virginia while supporting businesses and fulfilling a commitment to public safety through streamlined regulatory service, Hill said in the announcement of his departure. In an interview, he said, I think its putting us on the right path to continue to give back to the commonwealth. Close An employee works at new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. An employee works at new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. The new warehouse is 37% larger than the Hermitage Road warehouse in Richmond, which remains in use for the time being. Cases of products moved through the new state ABC authoritys liquor distribution center in Hanover County on Monday. Gov. Ralph Northam (center) shares a laugh with Virginia ABC CEO Travis Hill (center left), Public Safety and Homeland Security Secretary Brian Moran (center right) and others during the ribbon-cutting. Governor Ralph Northam speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. Governor Ralph Northam speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Brian Moran speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. Virginia ABC CEO Travis Hill speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. The Hanover County site is home to a 95,000-square-foot, three-story office building and a 315,000-square-foot warehouse. PHOTOS: Virginia ABC Headquarters and Distribution Center in Hanover County An employee works at new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. An employee works at new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. The new warehouse is 37% larger than the Hermitage Road warehouse in Richmond, which remains in use for the time being. Cases of products moved through the new state ABC authoritys liquor distribution center in Hanover County on Monday. Gov. Ralph Northam (center) shares a laugh with Virginia ABC CEO Travis Hill (center left), Public Safety and Homeland Security Secretary Brian Moran (center right) and others during the ribbon-cutting. Governor Ralph Northam speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. Governor Ralph Northam speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Brian Moran speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. Virginia ABC CEO Travis Hill speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. The Hanover County site is home to a 95,000-square-foot, three-story office building and a 315,000-square-foot warehouse. From the Archives: Petersburg Civil War fort was sold and leveled in 1960s Fort Sedgwick or Fort Hell was one of the larger forts of the Union Army during the Civil War with a garrison of 800 men and 17 cannons. The fort occupied the most elevated natural position giving Union troops an unlimited view of their enemy and of Petersburg. The fort earned its nickname from the Confederate troops because of the constant, intense artillery fire from the cannons. The last attack launched from Fort Hell was April 2, 1865, when Union soldiers attacked Confederate lines with a blistering 30-minute bombardment. Despite the repeated bloody attacks by Union troops from Fort Hell, Confederate soldiers held their lines long enough to enable General Robert E. Lee and his men to escapeto Appomattox where Lee ended up surrendering on April 9, 1865. In the decades following the Civil War, the battleground was preserved and even housed a museum that attracted thousands of visitors. However, in 1966 it was announced that the land would be sold and the old trenches and the museum would be leveled. In 1966, David A. Lyon, a spokesperson for the Lyon family, which had owned the property for over 30 years, said the decision to sell the property was due to the fact that business had declined by about one-third. While the historic fortification withstood endless days of pounding from enemy cannons, its ultimate downfall was by the bulldozer. February 1973: Making license plates if one of prisoners' jobs. July 1974: Director Ron Greenfield, right, works on 'Zoo Story' script with Robert Hettinger and Ray Woodhouse. They are a part of the prison's theater program. February 1975: Paintings by members of the Academy Art Club of the State Penitentiary were to go on display today at the offices of the State Commission of the Arts and Humanities for a three-month period. The commission, located on the 12th floor of the Old State Office Building in Capitol Square, recently made a $1,000 grant to the club which is made up of prison inmates. 07-17-1936 (cutline): Where one was killed, six wounded in prison break--This is a staff artist's conception of the prison break late yesterday afternoon at the State Penitentiary. Eight prisoners seized two guards, a trusty and a truck in the prison yard and drove at the gateway in an attempt to batter their way to freedom. Guard C.H. Smith (arrow) halted them with gunfire from above. 09-30-1958 (cutline): Wall where prisoners escaped--Howard Lang, a State Penitentiary guard, points to spot where two prisoners dropped off the prison wall yesterday. Lang was guarding the men in a work detail atop the wall. Arrow shows guard box where he was when it occured. 07-17-1955 (cutline): Truck (center) in which prisoners escaped was parked between two prison buses. August 1991: Archaeologists found an old key while excavating the old State Penitentiary. Ethyl Labs funded the dig. The original building was designed by Benjamin Latrobe, who also drew plans for the U.S. Capitol. Cell original to State Penitentiary built in 1800 and razed in 1928. January 1960: Inmates prepare food for 1,600 others in the big kitchen on ground floor. They also learn a trade that helps them get jobs after discharge. Cells in original penitentiary, razed in 1928, were cold and damp. July 1990: A steel cell, without bunk, in the now-empty A-Building. 11-01-1956 (cutline): Convict goes into world as prison gate shuts. At 43 years old, he had just spent 21 years in jail. The southeast side of B section where the inmate population is at its maximum and inmates still live. B-Building faces Belvidere Street. 11-01-1990 (cutline): Trash bags hang outside cells where inmates spend 22 1/2 hours of every day. 11-01-1990 (cutline): Cells that houses 1,200 prisoners last January are now home to fewer than 600. 11-09-1990 (cutline): Inmates miss organized sports on the athletic field inside the walled prison. July 1990: Life in the Pen- Inmate artwork adorns an empty cell in A-Building, which was emptied of prisoners in April. July 1990: Cells in the death row section of the State Penitentiary. From the Archives: The old Virginia State Penitentiary The Virginia State Penitentiary or the Pen once occupied 17 acres along Spring Street at the intersection of South Second Street in downtown Richmond. The Pen had a long historyit was in service for almost 200 years before closing its doors in 1991. Following the Revolutionary War, Thomas Jefferson urged Virginia to construct a penitentiaryto follow in the footsteps of Europe. For some time the General Assembly ignored Jeffersons suggestion until, in the late 1790s, when reform swept the Virginia Legislature and the plans for a penitentiary house in the state were initiated. The first prisoners arrived in the early 1800s. During the Civil War, prisoners sewed Confederate Army uniforms. In 1908, an electric chair was installed in the A Building basementit was nicknamed Old Sparky. Afamjal reports Mexico fifth globally in furniture exports Jalisco, Mexico The Association of Furniture Manufacturers of Jalisco (Afamjal) says Mexico is the worlds fifth largest exporter. According to Afamjal President Jorge Rios, last year, the country exported nearly $12.8 billion, exceeding Canada and the U.S. Rios referred to Mexico as a furniture exporting power since it is the fifth country with the highest international sales. In 2022, the nation exported nearly $12.8 billion. He reported that nine out of every 10 dollars in exports were destined for the United States. However, Canada and Latin American countries such as Brazil and Guatemala, were also relevant markets. The countries that are above Mexico are China, Vietnam, Germany and Italy, who are internationally recognized for being global powers in the sector. We are happy to be in the top five for international exports. It puts the name of Mexico and the furniture sector high, he said. Rios says the heart of the Mexican furniture industry is in Jalisco, where in August, they hosted one of the most anticipated events in the world of interior design and furniture manufacturing: Expo Mueble Internacional (EXMI) and Tecno Mueble Internacional (TMI). He reported that during the event, industry leaders, designers, exhibitors and buyers participated to celebrate the latest in furniture design, manufacturing and trends. The exhibitors pointed out that 26 percent of their annual sales are captured through the event, which demonstrates the strong sales engine it represents for the country. Chetumal flight rerouted to Cozumel due to bad weather Chetumal, Q.R. Bad weather is being blamed for the rerouting of a Volaris flight Wednesday. Flight 824 was rerouted from the states capital city of Chetumal after two failed attempts to land. The flight had arrived from Mexico City bound for Chetumal. Due to the poor rainy and windy weather conditions, the aircraft was diverted to Cozumel. Sources inside the International Air Terminal confirmed its arrival and landing without issue. On social media, Volaris published The diversion of the flight to an alternate airport was because weather conditions did not allow landing at the destination. Therefore, the decision was to preserve your safety and that of our crew. We greatly appreciate your understanding. On the same day, Volaris had a similar experience in Tijuana with fog: Due to low visibility conditions caused by a layer of fog at the airport, departures and arrivals will be affected. We suggest constant communication with your airline. We appreciate your patience, your safety is our priority, they posted. Head-on highway crash sends two to Jose Maria Morelos hospital Jose Maria Morelos, Q.R. A head-on high speed highway collision has sent two drivers to hospital. On Wednesday afternoon, two compact cars crashed head on in the municipality of Jose Maria Morelos. Passing motorists made the 2:30 p.m. report to authorities. Paramedics and highway traffic responders found the two heavily damaged vehicles along a section of the Federal 184 highway. The crash happened on a section of road known as the Devils Curves. National Guard Highway Division were at the scene of the federal roadway crash where they guarded the accident site. A Felipe Carrillo Puerto taxi was one of the two vehicles involved in the Wednesday crash. Photo: September 27, 2023. Authorities were not sure exactly how the two cars hit one another on the clear dry roadway. One car belonged to a company. The second vehicle was a taxi belonging to the community of Chunhuhub in the municipality of Felipe Carillo Puerto. Both drivers were reported in serious condition. Their vehicles were completely destroyed in the two-car crash. U.S. Embassy donates equipment for migrant checkpoint management in Mexico Chiapas, Mexico The National Migration Institute (INM) through the Representative Office in the state of Chiapas, has received equipment donated by the United States Embassy. The equipment was donated through the Office of Anti-Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) under the framework of the Mexico-United States Bicentennial Understanding for Security, Public Health and Safe Communities. This equipment for immigration checkpoint management was delivered to the INM Representative Offices in the states of Chiapas, Hidalgo, Oaxaca, Puebla, Queretaro, Veracruz and Tamaulipas. They will be used for humanitarian assistance to migrants in these states. The donated items include awnings, lamps, portable generators, stop signs, traffic cones, mobile toilets, folding tables and chairs, traffic control flashlights, reflective vests and raincoats. Mobile toilets and sinks were also part of the U.S. donation. Photo: Courtesy Instituto Nacional de Migracion September 27, 2023. Likewise, health equipment such as face masks, disposable gloves, antibacterial gel, sanitizing towels and first aid kits, among other items, were also donated. This authority appreciates the donation of the equipment that will be useful in humanitarian aid tasks, the INM said in a statement. To be conservative, wrote Michael Oakeshott, is to prefer the familiar to the unknown, to prefer the tried to the untried, fact to mystery. His definition of conservatism, not as a set of policy aspirations but as a deeper sensibility, explains the conservative respect for tradition and view of history as a source of normsthats the positive side. The negative side is that there are some issues for which the conservative partiality for history and tradition provides zero comfort. Race is one of those issues. What does it even mean to be a conservative on race? Its a profoundly uncomfortable question for those of us who claim the label of conservative: Exactly which part of Americas racial past are we trying to conserve? Making this question even more troublesome is the fact that the American right and racial minorities do not exactly have a rosy relationship. 85 percent of Republican voters in the 2022 midterms were white1% were black. Scholarly research from the early 2000s notes how racial issues are still the key to understanding the partisan distributions of black voters: blacks are skeptical at best of conservatives ability to actually care about their interests. J.C. Watts Jr., a former U.S. Congressman and Republican Conference chair, described his Democrat fathers outlook on conservatives in incredibly telling form: A black man voting for the Republicans makes about as much sense as a chicken voting for Colonel Sanders. How did this happen? How did the party of Lincoln morph into a party so disconnected from racial issues that such statements made sense? After the Civil War, the Republican Party held the loyalty of black voters for several decades, largely due to its legacy as the Party of Lincoln and party-level support for the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments. Yet, in the American South and increasingly in the North, that loyalty was about to change. To better understand this change, I sat down with Dr. Malcolm Foley, a writer and special adviser to the president for equity and campus engagement at Baylor University, to discuss Americas racial politics between the end of the Civil War and the mid-20th century. Foley explained how the economic situation in postwar America created certain preconceptions for many white Americans, conservatives included: With the development of Jim Crow, when thats the status quo, what white self-styled conservatives came to believe was that our way of life requires economically disadvantaged black people. As the Great Migration began and more than 6 million African Americans left the South, the material effects of racism that Foley describes, including lynchings and brutal discrimination, were a driving force. While that violent Southern regime continued until the 1930s and even later, the Great Migration creates a labor threat in Northern cities. The case for integration is then perceived as a barrier to white Americans social standing. Its here that Foleys background as a religious historian comes into playto him, many of the arguments used by Christians and conservatives to support the racial prejudice baked into the system were simply bastardized, misapplied religious arguments. What undergirded the argument for segregation were passages from Acts and Ephesians and even Old Testament passages like the curse of Ham in Genesis, and that was something that undergirded a lot of pro-slavery arguments, too. That was the way of thinking to preserve the status quo. Foley also points to the work of pro-slavery figures like James Henley Thornwell, a Southern Presbyterian who citedscriptural descriptions of slavery in his bid to offer a theological case for chattel slavery, exemplified in his 1850 sermonThe Rights and Duties of Masters: If God shall enable us to maintain the moderation and dignity which spring from the relation of master and servant it will be a signal proof that He has not condemned us. Even after the demise of slavery, such allegedly Christian arguments took time to fall out of cultural favor, says Foley, even among conservatives. Southern evangelicals used Scripture to justify their own prejudices, he tells me, further asserting that post-Reconstruction, the Klan in its initial founding and second iteration was a white, Protestant, nativist group. Even postBrown v. Board of Education, Foley notes how resistance to integration was part of the birth of private Christian schools. In his view, the American struggle with racial integration was a narrative battle. Race is a nationwide social construct. What the narrative of race does is it allows people to tell themselves theyre not evil. The Baldwin-Buckley debate The conservative struggle to deal with racial issues quickly took on more familiar ideological parameters in the 1950s and 60s. Although the racism of some Southern Democrats offered Republicans an opportunity to present themselves as more moderate on civil rights, optics blunders and actual prejudice continued to plague conservatives in prominent cultural outlets. As the civil rights movement grew in both popularity and notoriety, skepticism of its motives and demands was not limited to torch-wielding Klansmen but was notable among the intellectual side of the political right, including from the helmsman at what was then a new conservative magazine: National Review. William F. Buckley, born into relative wealthin Manhattan, clashed a number of times with one of the fastest-rising stars within the civil rights movement, writer and Harlem native James Baldwin. In fact, the two met in debate in 1965 at the University of Cambridge, an event catalogued in the award-winning book The Fire Is Upon Us, written by Linfield professor Nicholas Buccola. I discussed with him what is often viewed as a watershed moment in the history of American conservatisms early unease with civil rightsand a major philosophical and PR blunder by the racially insular Buckley. Its less a political history than an intellectual one, Buccola tells me. Conservative politicians were ahead of conservative intellectuals on this issuelooking [at those] around Buckley, there wasnt a whole lot of enlightenment on this issue. At National Review, he was sympathetic to a general skepticism about civil rights, and that led him to surround himself with people sympathetic to what his parents taught him. Even with someone like [1964 GOP presidential nominee] Barry Goldwater, whos very different from Buckley, on questions of race hes still very slow, dragging his feet on a lot of these questions. The Baldwin-Buckley debate focused on the question of whether the American dream had come at the expense of the American Negro, and the Cambridge audience soundly rejected Buckleys arguments, siding with Baldwin 544164. Buckley, for his part, maintained his fierce opposition to Baldwin, telling media in 1968, I didnt give one g*****n inch. I walked out of there tall so far as self-respect goes. Yet other conservatives seem to indicate that Buckley eventually mellowed on the race issue, to an extent that seemed almost repentant. Jay Nordlinger, a senior writer at National Review and a friend of Buckleys, pointed out an incredibly telling exchange in the early 2000s, when Bill [Buckley] said the Right, including himself, had been wrong on civil rights, and thats all there was to it. He regretted it keenly. Dropping the Ball As a young conservative, and one whos read his fair share of Buckley and found it useful, its dismaying to learn about the darker parts of conservative pioneers like WFB, although itd be too much of a stretch to call it surprising. In a sense, the Buckley-Baldwin debate seems to epitomize the conservative struggle on racial issues: a misunderstanding of appearances, an overinflated sense of own-the-libs-ism, and enough actual prejudice to make us nonwhite conservatives completely unwilling to defend whats been said. Yet even though Buckley may have evolved from the prejudice of his youth, the conservative movement on the whole wasnt finished screwing up on the racial issues. Scholar Phillip J. Ardoin notes that during the 1960s and leading into the 1970s, the Democratic Partys general support of civil rights, and an expanded social agenda, has played a pivotal role in gaining and preserving the allegiance of African Americans. In addition, the Republican Party has also played a role in maintaining African Americans loyalty to the Democratic Party. Have we conservatives always been shooting ourselves in the foot? Its starting to look like it. Acton scholar Anthony Bradley minces no words when it comes to the failings of conservatives on reaching nonwhite Americans in the 1970s and beyond. In the 1970s, conservatives showed their hand in trying to preserve racial dominance, he begins. It was a tragic errorinstead of looking at the economic case for desegregation, they resisted it. They resisted opening the markets. There was serious work ethic to compete with. For Bradley, the problem wasnt that conservative ideals regarding free markets werent resonating with nonwhite voters; it was that conservatives were letting prejudice cloud their commitment to those ideals. Their struggle with race is largely an unwillingness to compete with different ethnic minorities. They will lose money before they give up their social comfort. They should have acted like free marketers. Bradleys remarks hit directly at that uncomfortable question about what it means to be a conservative on race. Conservatism means seeing history as a source of norms, he explains. It can easily become an idol. They blindly look at the past and miss the negative externalities. Theres a weakness in the frameworkwe dont know what to conserve. He points out that with the rise of the Moral Majority and figures like Pat Robertson, Francis Schaeffer, and Jerry Falwell in the 1970s, there was a resurgent conservative/evangelical attempt to wrestle with what exactly we were supposed to be conserving. Unfortunately, that resurgence reached conclusions that simply did not ring true for nonwhite Americans. As Bradley argues, maybe it was never supposed to. Conservatives dropping the ball on race in the 1970s is why they struggle today. They never figured out a place for nonwhites in the growing conservative movement. Fast-forward 50 yearsare conservatives any better on the race issue? Bradley certainly doesnt seem to think so. He tells me that nonwhite conservatives are stuck behind the 8-ball in talking about racial issues with their fellow conservatives. Its a pattern: conservatives find a black person to parrot their ideas, the black person speaks out about something uncomfortableand they get demonized. I asked him how this fit into the story of figures like 2024 presidential hopeful Senator Tim Scott. If he keeps his mouth shut, hell be OK, Bradley quips, and I wish that pattern didnt seem as familiar as it does. Even for a historian like Buccola, conservatives past complicity in racism doesnt mean every conservative racial failing is rooted in prejudice. As Hanlons Razor would have it: Never attribute to malice that which is adequately explained by ignorance or stupidity. No doubt theres maliciousness out there, but my sense of it is that theres a large part of this where folks are getting a certain narrative in their mind that helps them make sense of their own life and mind and identity. That doesnt lead conservatives to racism, but it can lead us to a certain degree of apathy or partisan blindness that destroys our ability to talk about race with persuadable Americans who otherwise might have written conservatives off. Malcolm Foley points out that racial blockheadedness is hardly limited to the political right: Liberals fall very quickly into identity politics and people talking past each other and glossing over the material effects of racism, and neither Buccola nor Bradley are exactly staunch progressives. Yet all their critiques of the right seem to hit in a similar area: an improper rhetorical focus that fails to zero in on practical issues. Its a Nietzsche thingtheres something soothing about indignation, Buccola tells me. The indignation has really been shifted into these vague questions about wokeness and CRT. The current approach needs to be about being as precise as we can and trying to avoid oversimplifying for the sake of the argument. And for Bradley, talking about practical issues means not ignoring the economics conservatives love so much: I dont think American conservatives are going to make real progress until they properly embrace free markets. Its very easy, particularly as a nonwhite American who believes in conservative ideas, to look at the history of American conservatives and race simply as a series of ignorant and too often simply prejudicial rhetorical and political failures. While somewhat accurate, its not an excuse and fixing this tone-deafness (at the very least) means reexamining conservative philosophy: the most depressing parts of our history do not have to determine the potential of our future, especially if were honest about how depressing they are. We need to reembrace the potential of markets to create human flourishing, especially for Americans who are not part of the racial majority. And we need to recommit ourselves to making peoples lives tangibly better, not just less oppressed in the way a bias test might measure. Marginalized communities and populations dont need implicit-bias test access and DEI awareness training nearly as much as they need to create generational wealth and upward educational mobility. Theyre the things America hasnt done enough of but that we absolutely can be doing nowthe tried-and-failed does not have to be the enemy of what we havent tried yet. The number of homes for sale in the Roanoke region reached 754 in August, 22% higher than in August 2022. The Virginia Realtors warned that the number of homes for sale is shrinking in most communities, but not Roanoke. There are more homes for sale in the counties of Bedford, Botetourt, Craig, Franklin, Roanoke and the cities of Roanoke and Salem combined. That said, the housing market has softened here and across the state in terms of homes sold, according to the Realtor group, which used to be called the Virginia Association of Realtors. Inventory conditions are worsening in most local markets in Virginia, Katrina Smith, association president, said in a prepared release. With mortgage rates at a 20-year high and a low supply of homes on the market to move into, some would-be sellers are choosing not to list their homes. However, it is a sellers market, and most who do sell their homes are receiving multiple offers. The median sales price in August was $299,900. Homes were on the market for an average of 25 days. When it comes to inventory, Botetourt saw the number of homes for sale in its borders grow for 11 straight months. In Franklin County, inventory dropped, then grew, then dropped again and again. Clarification Sept. 28, 2023, 5 p.m.: Alice Kassens is senior analyst with the Institute for Policy and Opinion Research at Roanoke College. Kassens role with the center was omitted from the originally published version of this article, which has been updated. Occasionally this column features warnings of scams, aka confidence games. Theyre so named because the perpetrators imbue victims with confidence while pocketing their money. A recent example featured a Roanoke County grandmother who, over a period of years, advanced more than $40,000 to two con men who promised to sell her South Carolina timeshare. The victim, Mary Thomas, was hardly alone in trusting her swindlers. Later, authorities in California charged the same men with operating a nationwide scam that defrauded seniors of more than $4.5 million. You can read about such crimes just about every day, online or in any newspaper. Could scams like that be one reason trust appears dropping in Virginia and the rest of the nation? Alice Kassens, an economist at Roanoke College, cant exactly pinpoint the causes of declining trust. But she knows it appears on the wane, both across America and here in the Old Dominion. Trust is an important concept, Kassens said, because its an important factor that goes into calculating productivity. Thats a measurement to which economists pay close attention. Kassens called it one of the key determinants to long-term economic growth. In general, more trust leads to greater productivity because transactions in a trustworthy society happen faster than in an untrustworthy one, she said. Research surveys back up a declining level of trust among Americans. One is the General Social Survey (GSS), conducted by the University of Chicagos National Opinion Research Center (NORC). Since 1972, the GSS has posed three questions related to trust, as part of a broader survey thats conducted every other year. (The only exception was 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic scotched the survey. As a result, theres a data gap for 20182022.) Here are the three questions: Do you think most people would try to take advantage of you if they got a chance, or would they try and be fair? (FAIR) Would you say that most of the time people try to be helpful, or that they are mostly just looking out for themselves? (HELPFUL) Generally speaking, would you say that most people can be trusted or that you cant be too careful in dealing with people? (TRUST) In 1972 the same year the Watergate Scandal started 45.8% of respondents deemed most people trustworthy. What followed was a slow but steady decline in affirmative answers to all three questions. Trust declined the most. By 2022, only 25.8% of Americans responded affirmatively on the trust question in the national survey. That suggests that over 50 years, our trust in each other plummeted by almost half. (The questions for fair and helpful scored 43.8% and 42.9% respectively, and showed a slower decline. Decades ago, both were above 50%.) Working as senior analyst at Roanoke Colleges Institute for Policy and Opinion Research (IPOR), Kassen has created a Virginia Trust Index, from the same three questions, but posed to Virginians. That survey began in 2017 and is conducted quarterly, rather than every two years. Importantly, IPOR continued gathering data during the pandemic. The most recent suggests a couple of interesting findings. One is that Virginians seem more trusting than Americans at large. In August , 31.7% of Virginians said they trusted most others, compared to just under 26% nationally. In that same survey, Virginians on average also gave their fellow man higher scores than the national survey for fairness and helpfulness. Respectively, those scored 48.4% and 47%. Why is Virginia more trusting? Likely, its not just one thing, Kassens said. But Virginias economy, which overall is in better shape than many states, may be a factor, she added. Its heavily influenced by federal spending in Northern Virginia, home to the Pentagon, and Hampton Roads, the location of the largest naval base in the world. In general Virginia has lower unemployment, higher labor participation and higher wage gains than other states. There are 2.5 job openings for every unemployed person, Kassens said. Another finding, which cant be compared to the national data (because the GSS data wasnt collected 2018-2022) is that trust among Virginians rose sharply early in the pandemic, bucking long-term trends. To calculate Virginias Trust Index, Kassens combined the replies from all three questions. She used the initial February 2017 responses and pegged those to a baseline score of 100. It hovered around there until early 2020, right around the time of the first COVID-19 cases in America. But between February and May 2020 remember the early shutdowns, when most everyone wore a mask in public? the Virginia Trust Index spiked to 119.7. That was an all-time high, compared to 2017. We were relatively more trusting until mid-2021, when the Virginia Trust Index slid to under 100 then continued sliding. It reached its lowest point, 86.4, in May , Kassens said. Why? Her report offers a possible explanation. At the beginning, Despite frustrations over pandemic-related restrictions such as closures of non-essential businesses and mask mandates, Virginians relied on each other for help, and a greater share found each other to be fair, helpful, and trustworthy, Kassens wrote. The steady decline in the trust after May 2021 likely reflects growing frustrations with continued COVID-19-related restrictions such as mask mandates, a divide over newer vaccine mandates, and general political discord. I tried (but failed) to get some specifics on general political discord and how that might be an indicator of trust/distrust or vice-versa. Kassens replied shes an economist, and the question would be better for a political scientist. But with the Virginia Trust Index, there are hints of optimism. Though it mostly slid for two years between May 2021 and this May, it rebounded a bit in August, and rose to 92. Its unclear whether thats the beginning of trend, or an anomaly. The bottom line is, in terms of trust, our society is in worse shape now than it was before the pandemic began. The next quarterly survey for the Virginia Trust Index happens in November, the same month as elections for the 2024 Virginia General Assembly. For the former, we should have some results in December. In which direction do you reckon trust is headed? Whats this about nuclear reactors coming to Southwest Virginia? How will nuclear development impact those of us living, working and raising kids here? Is it going to spur our economy? Will it really get us closer to reaching climate goals? Who will see real tangible benefits? These are some of the questions I had upon hearing Gov. Glenn Youngkins announcement last year that he wants to use public money to subsidize private development of Advanced Small Modular Reactors (SMR). Since then, Ive read articles, reports and feasibility studies about the nuclear supply chain and I have major concerns. Theres no doubt if this plan goes through, all of us living in Southwest and central would also be negatively impacted. Nuclear reactors rely on uranium mining and enrichment, which irreversibly contaminates land, air and water. They consume massive amounts of fossil fuels throughout the fuel chain, and they produce extremely toxic waste, which lasts virtually forever without any solutions for safe storage or disposal. The uranium to nuclear fuel chain makes climate change worse. And, the nuclear industry actively blocks renewable energy and other solutions to end fossil fuels by duping politicians into believing its a safe and renewable solution to climate change, none of which has been proven true. We should all have a say in decisions that impact our lives and our communities. When the VA Department of Energy gave opportunity for robust public input a couple years ago, Virginians clearly stated what was needed for transitioning away from coal to cleaner energy development. We said we want affordable childcare and higher education opportunities in rural areas. We want revitalized downtowns and better transportation infrastructure. And, we want solar development thats accessible to low and moderate income residents. When our government gives public money were talking BILLIONS of dollars- to private industry for nuclear development, theyre choosing that over other these other life-sustaining necessities. My friends at clinchcoalition.org have an SMR Library on their website. Check it out to learn more. Lyndsay Tarus, Moneta Man fatally shot boarding busRICHMOND Richmond police are investigating after a man was shot and killed Thursday morning while boarding a Greater Richmond Transit Company bus in South Richmond. Officers responded to the intersection of Cowardin Avenue and Hull Street for reports of a shooting at around 7:27 a.m. Thursday, police said. At the scene, they found an adult male lying on the pavement near the rear door of a GRTC bus, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The state medical examiner will determine the cause and manner of death. The mans identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. Detectives determined that the man was not on the bus, but was shot as he prepared to board, according to Richmond police spokesperson James Mercante. Richmond Times-Dispatch Abingdon man jailed for stealing school busLEBANON An Abingdon man has been charged with stealing a school bus in Russell County. Lee Allen Roark, age 34, of Abingdon, was charged with grand larceny of a motor vehicle, felony destruction of property, tampering with a vehicle, and trespassing on school property, according to a statement from the Russell County Sheriffs Office. He was arrested by the Washington County Sheriffs Office on Sept. 26, and committed to the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority on a secured bond. School officials reported the bus stolen on Monday from the countys Career & Technology Center. Bristol Herald-Courier Girl struck by truck near middle schoolHAMPTON A 14-year-old Eaton Middle School student was hit by a pickup truck Wednesday afternoon while crossing Cunningham Drive near the school. Police responded to the scene at 3:57 p.m. The girl was taken to a hospital and is expected to survive. She was struck by a small Nissan pickup truck traveling west on Cunningham Drive, police said. She was not crossing at a designated crosswalk, and the driver remained on the scene. The (Norfolk) Virginian-Pilot Spotsylvania women killed in single-vehicle crashFREDERICKSBURG For the third time in less than a week, a Spotsylvania resident has died as the result of a vehicle accident. The latest fatal crash occurred Monday about 7:20 p.m. Sheriffs Maj. Troy Skebo said a 2007 Honda CRV was heading south when it ran off the right side of the road and struck a tree. The driver and sole occupant, 63-year-old Krista Sirna-Lee, died at the scene. Skebo said police are investigating the possibility that Sirna-Lee suffered a medical emergency prior to the crash. On Friday morning, two county residents died in separate crashes that occurred a little more than an hour apart. The (Fredericksburg) Free Lance-Star Two arrested for pulling gun during traffic stopFREDERICKSBURG Two men were arrested late Tuesday following an incident during which one of them pulled out a gun during a traffic stop, police said. Fredericksburg police spokeswoman Sarah Morris said officers L. Garrant and D. Sheffield pulled over a vehicle at 10:45 p.m. for a traffic violation. During the stop, Garrant noticed one of the passengers reach under his leg and pull out a gun. Morris said Garrant immediately drew his service weapon and ordered all of the vehicle occupants to show their hands. The occupants complied and exited the vehicle one by one without further incident, Morris said. Officers seized a loaded 9mm Glock from one passenger, 26-year-old Quamel Hawkins of Fredericksburg. During a subsequent search, another gun that had been reported stolen in Spotsylvania was recovered, along with marijuana and about $500 in cash. The (Fredericksburg) Free Lance-Star In 1772, a mathematician named Johann Titus and an astronomer named Johann Bode discovered a mathematical sequence that explained the distances from the sun of all the known planets but there seemed to be one missing. Titus's series predicted the possibility of a planet orbiting between Mars and Jupiter at 2.8 AU (2.6 x 108 mi / 4.2 x 108 km) from the sun. AU stands for astronomical unit and is based on the mean distance from Earth to the sun, 9.3 x 107 miles (1.5 x 108 km). Advertisement Astronomers began to search for this missing planet, and in 1801, an Italian astronomer named Giuseppi Piazzi found a faint body at that distance that he called Ceres. However, Ceres was fainter than Mars or Jupiter, so Piazzi concluded it was much smaller. Astronomers later found other small bodies in this same vicinity. These objects were named asteroids (meaning star-like). They are also called minor planets. Upgrading Space Rocks In 2006, Ceres was promoted from asteroid to dwarf planet, due to its relatively massive size. Nine years later, NASA's Dawn spacecraft landed on the dwarf planet, making Ceres the first of its kind to receive such an honor. CERN, which mainly focuses on particle physics, has existed since the 1950s. At the end of World War II, Europe was a mess and its scientific community a shambles. Scientists in the United States, which included many plucked from Europe, had taken the lead in physics. In 1949, French quantum physicist Louis de Broglie proposed that Europe try to recapture its scientific glory by creating a multinational atomic physics laboratory. Advertisement CERN Members and Observers A few years later, CERN was born and built just outside Geneva. The 12 founding states included Belgium, Denmark, France, West Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and Yugoslavia. As of January 2023, 23 countries, including Israel, Poland and Finland, are CERN members, and each one gets two spots on the CERN council (the decision-making body) but a single vote on such decisions. CERN's Director-General, Fabiola Gianotti, essentially functions as the leader. The United States is not a member but an observer state that is, one that can attend meetings and get info but not vote on CERN matters [source: CERN]. (Speaking of the U.S., it contributed $531 million for the construction of several LHC components.) CERN's Goals CERN's job was to find out how the universe worked. No big deal, right? Scientists decided the best way to accomplish this monumental task was to build giant machines that slammed subatomic particles into one another. The hope was that these so-called atom smashers would give researchers a glimpse back to the time just after the universe came into being. Accordingly, CERN started building its very first accelerator, the Synchrocyclotron, in 1957. The Synchrocyclotron crashed and smashed its way toward 33 years of service. CERN now operates several accelerators and one decelerator in a building complex that straddles the Swiss and French border. The cost of the experiments is spread over the member states [sources: Exploratorium, CERN]. Working at CERN By 2014, 2,400 full-time employees and 1,500 part-timers, were working at CERN, while more than 600 institutes and universities had access to its facilities to start unraveling a variety of mysteries, such as antimatter, black holes, subatomic particles and the events that occurred a split second after the Big Bang. Moreover, 10,000 scientists from 113 countries half of all the particle physicists on the planet stop by CERN for research each year. And it's not just scientists either. People work at a variety of jobs including engineers, experimental physicists and even accountants. Scientists from member states get the first crack at a position, although CERN always considers senior scientists from other countries [sources: Exploratorium, CERN]. Connecting the World In 1989, Tim Berners-Lee, a British scientist, helped to invent the World Wide Web by developing hypertext transfer protocol, or http. Berners-Lee was keen to create a network of interactive computers so scientists all over the world could share data [source: CERN]. Mark Hernandez. Credit: University of Colorado at Boulder Engineers at CU Boulder kicked off a new project this month that aims to investigate whether improving classroom air quality with air purifiers can help students miss fewer school days. The study comes at a time when millions of students across the country are chronically absent from school, a worsening trend that could have large impacts on students' academic performance. Mark Hernandez, the SJ Archuleta Professor in the Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering, is co-leading the project with researchers at the CU Anschutz Medical Campus with a $2.2 million grant the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention awarded this month. Over the past four months, Hernandez and his team, including eight engineering students, helped install air quality monitors in 2,400 classrooms across Colorado's K-12 schools. These monitors can provide teachers, school officials and researchers with real-time data on classroom temperature, humidity, CO 2 and air pollutant levels. The team also helped install air cleaners with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in tens of thousands of classrooms statewide. These commonly available air purifiers can effectively filter out air pollutantssuch as particulate matter from vehicle exhaust and wildfire smokethat can trigger negative respiratory reactions and remove airborne pathogens like the coronavirus. The team will compare student absenteeism rates in classrooms with air purifiers with those without. "Linking positive student outcomes to affordable air quality interventions has yet to be done on a large epidemiological scale," said Hernandez. "I am thankful our flagship engineering college and public health school was chosen by CDC to team up for this work as a national model." An epidemic of absenteeism During the 202223 school year, over a third of Colorado K-12 students were chronically absentdefined as missing 10% of the school days in a year. That's up from one in five students before the pandemic. Students are absent from school for a myriad of reasonsbullying, transportation problems and financial hardshipand asthma stands out as the leading cause of absenteeism due to chronic illness. Funded by Colorado's Ryan Innovation Fund, Hernandez started testing air purifiers in Denver Public School (DPS) classrooms in 2020, in an effort to help reopen schools under better conditions during the pandemic. "When the pandemic broke out, there were a lot of people introducing air purifiers in classrooms. But many of the purifiers weren't sized correctly, didn't work well or were too loud. No one had systematically assessed the purifiers' performance in actual educational settings at this scale" Hernandez said. In 2021, Hernandez and his team installed air purifiers coupled with air quality monitors in 20 public elementary school buildings with funding from the Intel Corporation and the Carrier Company. Most of the schools are located along the I-25 and I-70 highways, and their proximity to high-traffic corridors and industrial zones increases students' exposure to air pollution, which could worsen the effects of COVID-19. In some of these schools, more than 20% of the students have asthma. The pilot trial's data showed that the purifiers, when working properly, were effective in improving classroom ventilation and reducing air pollutants. Impressed by the results, DPS funded Hernandez's team to extend the program to 800 classrooms in 100 schools in 2021. In 2022, Hernandez received a $5.5 million grant from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to expand the work state-wide into a new program called Clean Air for Schools. The additional CDC grant will allow the team to continue monitoring air quality in Colorado classrooms and investigate if there is a connection between air purifier operations, ventilation performance and student attendance. "Until COVID-19, nobody really did anything about air quality in classrooms except in response to extreme weather conditions. Many political leaders and agency decision-makers projected systemic air quality improvements to be too expensive," Hernandez said. An inexpensive, but powerful solution Hernandez estimates that effectively reducing airborne particles in indoor air pollution with air purifiers would cost $65 per student, per classroom, per year. "Installing a couple of air purifiers in a classroom is cheaper than a textbook, but schools are always strapped for money. Now we have data that shows these commonly available appliances, which don't disrupt teaching, can be systematically prioritized. It's well worth it in both the immediate and long term," Hernandez said. The project has a huge community and educational impact, Hernandez added. He is proud of the students and contractors who worked day and night to install the air monitors in thousands of classrooms over the past summer. Many of the young researchers working on the project are first-generation college students who come from communities disproportionately affected by air pollution and COVID-19. Studies have found that Black and Hispanic students have the highest asthma rates in the U.S. "A few of my students actually attended these schools near the industrial zones, and they are able to give back to the community with their education," Hernandez said. The diverse group of students will continue to track the data and analyze air quality's impact on absenteeism using the new grant. "While I'm an engineer, I'm also an educator. Through this project, I get to work with our engineering students and watch them increase their skills and competence and advance their educational potential while doing something good for the community. This is one of the most rewarding projects I've had in nearly 30 years here at CU," Hernandez said. Provided by University of Colorado at Boulder Credit: CC0 Public Domain There can be no new, "green" jobs without electricity. So researchers have three pieces of advice to offer politicians as to what we should be doing to ensure adequate future energy supplies. With the local elections fast approaching, issues surrounding electricity will be hot topics in many municipalities. So says Nils Rkke, who is Executive Vice-President for Sustainability at the Norwegian science institute SINTEF. He has teamed up with Professor Asgeir Tomasgard of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) to offer three pieces of advice to politicians as to what they should be doing to prevent an electricity deficit in Norway. In danger of a deficit crisis Norway is in danger of experiencing an electricity deficit. Politicians are only too happy to cut the ribbons at the opening of green factories offering new local jobs. But they are less enthusiastic when it comes to approving the development of the new power plants needed to supply these factories with essential electricity. "Following the war in Ukraine, the issue of supply security has been elevated to an entirely new level," says Tomasgard. He and Rkke recently presented a new report at the Arendal Political and Business Forum (Arendalsuka), pointing out that Norway now finds itself in what they call an energy "trilemma." Low-hanging fruit Trilemma? No, this isn't a misprint. While we understand a dilemma as having to make a difficult choice between two alternatives, a trilemma puts us in an even more difficult situation. Here we have to choose from among three seemingly uncomfortable options. Ideally, we're looking to find a comprise solution that takes account for all three. So, when it comes to electricity, we have to balance the three factors supply security, climate change considerations and the national economy. The first piece of advice offered by the two researchers, on behalf of SINTEF and NTNU, is not to delay in taking the low-hanging fruit. They suggest promoting collaboration at local level now, with the aim of encouraging the development of renewable energy. Since it is the municipalities that have the final say when it comes to local planning and land management, electricity might very well become a key issue in the upcoming elections. "We should have had a 'Paris Agreement'tailored to our needs here in Norway," says Tomasgard. "An agreement that determines the things we want to get done at national level and how local democracy can contribute towards achieving them," he says. Don't power everything directly with electricity So, what about the second piece of advice? Ensure that our energy carriers are fit for purpose. When we use electricity to heat our homes in winter, grid capacity becomes severely limited. Instead, buildings should be heated using water-borne heat, supplemented by district heating systems and heat pumps. Hydrogen can be used to replace natural gas. In the industrial sector, heat pumps and solar power offer massive potential. The third piece of advice offered by SINTEF and NTNU is that politicians should act to prevent Norway from falling behind the curve. "Reverse the cuts in research into future energy systems," say the two researchers. Cuts in research budgets "This year, the cuts have amounted to 13%," says Rkke "This is odd and paradoxical given the situation we find ourselves in. Both the EU and the U.S. are gearing up. Norway, on the other hand, is cutting its spending on research and innovation, and that can't be right," he says. Asgeir Tomasgard is not only a Professor at NTNU, but also Director of the NTRANS energy research center. He argues that for every krone spent on funding energy research, we get four kroner back in terms of measurable economic effect. The future offers the potential for as much as twenty kroner back for every krone spent on research. His figures are based on calculations made by the consultancy Impello Management. "Bill Gates says that we must boost our research efforts and innovation in the field of clean energy by as much as five-fold," says Rkke. The International Energy Agency (IEA) argues that a four-fold increase is necessary if we are to achieve our zero emissions targets by 2050. Rkke and Tomasgard take a more moderate view. "In our opinion, the funding of research programs supporting the green transition must be doubled. The 2024 national budget should be looking to set aside NOK 1 billion to fund research into solutions that will address the energy and climate change challenges we are currently facing here in Norway," they say. Major uncertainty Head of Section Ann M. stenby at the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE) has been speaking about major uncertainty linked to Norway's future electricity balance. The NVE presented a new analysis at the recent Arendal Political and Business Forum. "In fact, our presentation should have been made a little earlier, but had to be postponed because the entire NVE organization was kept busy dealing with the "Hans' extreme weather event," says stenby. "Our greatest uncertainties are linked to the issue of consumption development ", says stenby. "We've noted that energy efficiency measures have been working, and it looks like they will continue to work in the future. This is the reason why the much-debated electricity deficit will not be as large as has been feared during the next five years," she says. The NVE analysis demonstrates that growth in electricity consumption will thus be lower than previously predicted. Nevertheless, there will be significant growth in consumption in the years leading up to 2028, and very little new electricity generation is expected to come onstream. If there is only little precipitation in future years, we may experience electricity deficits in the driest periods. Provided by SINTEF DARLINGTON, S.C. Six Trinity Collegiate School students recently earned academic honors from the College Board National Recognition Program. These programs celebrate students hard work in high school and showcase their strong academic performance. The academic honors for rural area, Black, Indigenous, and Latino students are an opportunity for students to share their strong academic achievements with colleges and scholarship programs that are seeking to recruit diverse talent. The six students are Charles McKay, Coley Norris, Jameson Sheehy, Kaila Delaney, Kate Carter, and William Grantham. Trinity students Six Trinity Collegiate students recently earned academic honors. The students were, back row from left, William Grantham, Charles McKay, Coley Were thrilled to celebrate our students and recognize them for the great work theyve been doing. Were proud of their strong academic performance in the classroom and on College Board assessments like the PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, and AP exams, said Ed Hoffman, head of school. Theres so much that makes our students unique, and receiving this honor reinforces this as an asset for their future. The criteria for eligible students include: GPA of 3.5 or higher. PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10 assessment scores that are within the top 10% of assessment takers in each state for each award program or earned a score of 3 or higher on 2 or more AP Exams in 9th and 10th grade. Attend school in a rural area or small town, or identify as African American/Black, Hispanic American/Latino, or Indigenous/Native. Eligible students are invited to apply on BigFuture during their sophomore or junior year and awards are announced at the start of the next school year in time to share their achievements in high school as they plan for the future. At the same time, colleges and organizations using College Boards Student Search Service can connect directly with awardees during the recruitment process. Its becoming increasingly hard for students to be seen during the college recruitment process. Were exceptionally proud of the National Recognition Programs for celebrating students who are at times overlooked but have shown their outstanding academic abilities, said Tarlin Ray, senior vice president of BigFuture at College Board. This is a benefit not only for students but also for colleges and universities committed to recruiting diverse and talented students. Hoang Thi Minh Hong has been sentenced to three years in prison (Screengrab/ TEDx Talks) One of Vietnam's top climate activists was sentenced to three years in prison on charges of tax evasion on Thursday. Hoang Thi Minh Hong is the fifth activist to be sentenced over graft charges, in what appears to be the communist government's crackdown on climate activists opposing Hanois policies. Ms Hong was convicted of tax evasion at a trial in Ho Chi Minh City that lasted half a day. She has been accused of dodging tax payments worth 6.7bn dong ($274,488) during the 2012-2022 period. Ms Hong was the director of an environment advocacy group that she ran from 2013 till last year. She was made to pay a fine of 100m dong ($4,098), her lawyer Nguyen Van Tu said, adding that she has 15 days to make a decision to appeal the verdict. Ms Hong was the first Vietnamese to visit Antarctica in 1997 and was hailed by former president Barack Obama in 2018 for mobilising "a youth-led movement to create a greener world", Reuters reported. "This conviction is a total fraud, nobody should be fooled by it," said Ben Swanton, co-director of The 88 Project charity. He said that the conviction was yet another example of how the government weaponises the law to persecute climate activists. Climate activists tend to get harsher sentences than others who evade taxes in Vietnam, he added. Ms Hong asked for leniency at the trial so that she could "return and continue to contribute to the society and the country", according to the Thanh Nien newspaper. If Vietnam is serious about tackling climate change, it must release all environmental activists, campaigners and experts from jail now," said Ming Yu Hah, Amnesty's regional campaigns director. The international community must condemn this verdict and urge Vietnam to drop all criminal charges against environmental activists. The sentencing comes just days after Ngo Nhien, executive director of Vietnam Initiative for Energy Transition (VIETSE), was detained by the police on 15 September. Story continues At the time of her arrest, she was working closely with the Vietnamese government in providing technical and policy advice for the development of the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), the Vietnam Climate Defenders Coalition said in a statement. The JETP is a $15.5bn agreement made between Vietnam and G7 nations to support the country's transition to renewable energy sources. The pact is aimed at helping the South Asian nation to bring forward the target year to peak its greenhouse gas to 2030, from a previous 2035 projection. Ms Nhien is held without charges and the government is yet to officially announce her arrest, the rights group alleged. "We are aware of the arrest and are following the developments with concern," Ravina Shamdasani, a spokesperson for the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights said. "Vietnam is already in violation of the 'just' aspect of the JETP while civil society is severely constrained in its ability to participate," said Maureen Harris, senior advisor for International Rivers and a coordinator of the Vietnam Climate Defenders Coalition. "This latest arrest creates a chilling effect for anyone involved in the development of the JETP, as it signals that no independent voices in energy policy are safe." There is mounting pressure on the Western countries, especially the US to condemn the arrests in the wake of Joe Biden's historic visit to Vietnam, where the two nations reportedly discussed protection of human rights. Mr Biden left Vietnam on 11 September after having upgraded diplomatic relations and sealed multiple deals with Hanoi's leaders, drawing criticism from rights groups who accused him of sidelining issues of human rights. Washington had previously raised concerns over the sentencing of environmentalist Nguy Thi Khanh in June last year, calling on the government to release her. Ms Khanh was among the five climate activists Hoang Thi Minh Hong, Dang Dinh Bach, Mai Phan Loi, and Bach Hung Duong jailed on what critics call "trumped up charges". As of early this month, Vietnam was holding at least 159 political prisoners and was detaining 22 others pending trial, according to Human Rights Watch. The 2022 survey conducted by the Singapore Health Ministry highlights a concerning uptick in mental health issues among Singapore residents, particularly among young adults. (PHOTO: Getty Images) SINGAPORE Mental health conditions have deteriorated among Singaporeans, but there is a growing willingness to seek assistance, according to a survey conducted by the Ministry of Health (MOH). The ministry's National Population Health Survey 2022, released on Wednesday (27 September), delved into the well-being of Singapore residents aged 18 to 74 during the period from July 2021 to June 2022. The data collection involved interviews with about 8,000 adults and health examinations of about 9,000 adults. Growing concerns about mental health among young adults The survey revealed a notable increase in the prevalence of poor mental health, rising from 13.4 per cent in 2020 to 17 per cent in 2022. Among those with poor mental health, younger adults aged 18 to 29 make up the highest proportion at 25.3 per cent, while other age groups range from 10.5 per cent for those aged 60 to 74 to 19.4 per cent for those aged 30 to 39. Furthermore, the survey found that females are more likely to report poor mental health (18.6 per cent) compared to males (15.2 per cent). While the rise in poor mental health is concerning, the MOH survey also found an encouraging shift in attitudes towards seeking help. Residents' growing willingness to seek mental health support In 2022, about 56.6 per cent of Singapore residents expressed their willingness to seek help from health professionals, slightly lower than the 58.3 per cent reported in 2021 but still significantly higher than the 47.8 per cent in 2019. The age groups varied in their willingness to seek help, with residents aged 60 to 74 being the least inclined (48.1 per cent) and those aged 30 to 39 being the most willing (62 per cent). Additionally, more residents are open to seeking support from informal networks like friends and family, with the proportion rising to 79.7 per cent in 2022, up from 69.1 per cent in 2021 and 74.5 per cent in 2019. Young adults aged 18 to 29 exhibit the highest willingness to seek help from these networks at 88.1 per cent, while older adults aged 60 to 74 are the least inclined at 68.4 per cent. Story continues MOH and Health Promotion Board (HPB) jointly stated that the increase in people seeking help for mental health issues reflects reduced stigma and continued public awareness. The authorities are also working on strengthening the mental health and well-being of the population through the development of a national strategy by the Interagency Taskforce on Mental Health and Well-being. The task force was set up in 2021 to oversee national efforts to promote mental health and well-being beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, 56.6% of Singapore residents showed a willingness to seek help from health professionals, a slight decrease from 2021's 58.3%, but a significant increase from 2019's 47.8%. (PHOTO: Getty Images/iStockphoto) Do you have a story tip? Email: sgnews.tips@yahooinc.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. Also check out our Southeast Asia, Food, and Gaming channels on YouTube. Microsoft Paint Cocreator. What you need to know Microsoft is rolling out access to Paint Cocreator, which uses DALL-E to generate images. Access to the AI-powered image creation tool will roll out slowly, so you need to add a waitlist to gain access. Those who receive access will also get 50 credits to generate images. Microsoft Paint will soon feature AI-powered image generation, and Windows Insiders can already try out the functionality. Microsoft announced that Insiders in the Dev and Canary Channels can use Paint Cocreator powered by DALL-E. Rollout of Paint Cocreator will begin slowly, so those interested in using the tool must add their name to a waitlist (see below). Windows 11 Sept. 26 Update Windows 11 new File Explorer Everything new in this update How to get the September update Review: Windows 11 Sept Update What's new with the Start menu What's new with the Settings app What's new with Taskbar To use Paint Cocreator, a person inputs a few words to direct the tool on what to generate. There's an option to select an art style before Paint makes the image. Paint Cocreator will then make three variations of artwork. You can then pick any generated images and add them to your canvas. A support document for Paint Cocreator summarizes the tool: "Do you want to create amazing artwork with just a few words? Try Microsoft Paint Cocreator, a new feature that lets you collaborate with a powerful AI model called DALL-E. DALL-E can generate diverse and realistic images from any text description you enter. Whether you want to draw a dragon, a unicorn, or anything else, Cocreator will help you unleash your creativity and make your own artworks with the help of AI." That document also lists the current limitations of the feature: Initially, there is a waitlist for using this feature. If you are interested, join the waitlist from the Cocreator side panel. You will receive an email when you get approved to use Cocreator. Cocreator is currently available only in the following regions United States, France, UK, Australia, Canada, Italy and Germany. Only English language is supported at this time. Story continues To sign up, you must first join the Windows Dev or Canary Insider channels. Microsoft notes you'll need to sign in with your Microsoft account and then click on the new Cocreator button in the toolbar. Microsoft will then email you when you get into the preview. Like Bing Image Creator, you'll need credits to run the tool (one credit per image), and Microsoft will start you off with 50 to trial it out. Microsoft notes, however, that not all people will get Paint Cocreator: "We are beginning to roll these experiences out, so they may not be available to all Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels just yet as we plan to monitor feedback and see how it lands before pushing it out to everyone." Have you tried Paint Cocreator? Let us know how you like it in the comments. ORANGE CITY, Iowa -- An Akron, Iowa, man has entered a plea in a case in which he was accused of having sexual contact with a young girl. Kevin Jacobs, 67, entered an Alford guilty plea Tuesday in Sioux County District Court to one count of assault causing bodily injury or mental illness, no intent -- a serious misdemeanor. The charge was reduced from third-degree sexual abuse, a Class C felony. A charge of second-degree sexual abuse will be dismissed. According to the plea agreement, if approved by a judge, Jacobs would have a one-year jail sentence suspended and be placed on two years' probation. He'd also pay a $430 fine. Jacobs was charged with having sexual contact with the girl while camping at a Hawarden, Iowa, park sometime between May 20, 2016, and June 29, 2018. In his written plea, Jacobs said he did commit an assault. A jury in Plymouth County acquitted Jacobs in March of sexual abuse and lascivious acts with a child charges stemming from alleged contact with the same girl. WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The remains of a man born in Cherokee, Iowa, who later died in a bomber crash in World War II have been identified. U.S. Army Air Forces 2nd Lt. Max E. Dailey, 21, was accounted for on June 22, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced on Sept. 21. He will be buried in Charles City, Iowa, on a date yet to be determined. According to newspaper clippings accompanying the DPAA news release, Dailey was born in Cherokee and later attended West High School in Waterloo, Iowa, before graduating from Roosevelt High School in Des Moines in 1940. He was the son of Merle W. Dailey. Dailey was a navigator on a B-24 Liberator in the 409th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 93rd Bombardment Group (Heavy), 9th Air Force. On Aug. 1, 1943, his plane crashed as a result of enemy anti-aircraft fire during Operation Tidal Wave, a bombing mission against the oil fields and refineries at Ploiesti in Romania. His remains were not identified after the war and were buried with other unidentified remains listed as unknowns in Romania. After the war, the American Graves Registration Command disinterred all American remains from the Romanian cemetery, and more than 80 unknowns were interred at American cemeteries in Belgium. In 2017, DPAA began exhuming unknowns believed to have been unaccounted-for airmen from Operation Tidal Wave and sending them to the DPAA laboratory for identification. Dailey's remains were identified through DNA analysis, anthropological analysis and circumstantial evidence. A fired employee of Iowa Workforce Development is suing the state agency for alleged disability discrimination related to the health risks she faces from COVID-19. IWD is the state agency dedicated to helping Iowans with disabilities find and maintain employment. In her lawsuit against the agency, Kirstin Born of Polk County states that she began working for IWD in 2003. In 2015, she was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disorder, Myasthenia Gravis, which is treated with daily medications and periodic infusions. In March 2020, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, IWD began allowing employees to work remotely from home. At that time, Born began working 55 to 60 hours per week, according to her lawsuit, performing not only her regular duties but also a wide range of tasks related to an unprecedented increase in the unemployment claims that are processed by IWD. Born received the two-dose Moderna vaccine in March and April 2021, according to her lawsuit, and in May 2021, IWD and other state agencies announced their offices would be reopening and remote work was ending. However, the lawsuit alleges, there was a COVID-19 outbreak in Borns office at IWD and most workers in the agencys Unemployment Services Division were able to continue working remotely well into the fall of 2021. On June 4, 2021, testing showed Born had not produced any antibodies following her vaccination, leaving her essentially unprotected from the COVID-19 virus. The virus posed a particular risk to Born due to her compromised immune system caused by her medications, her lawsuit states. On June 7, 2021, according to the lawsuit, Born sent her supervisor a copy of her vaccination card and lab work to document the danger that COVID-19 posed to her and asked that she be allowed to continue working remotely until she could become revaccinated again. The lawsuit claims the request was denied on June 16 and again after Born submitted records from her neurologist and hematologist. Iowa Sen. Janet Petersen, D-Des Moines, called IWD Director Beth Townsend on behalf of Born, asking that Born be allowed to work from home in light of her health issues, according to the lawsuit. The agency subsequently gave Born a four-week extension to become vaccinated and return to the office. Born alleges her vaccination was delayed while she was in the midst of immunosuppressant infusions and that she continued to work from home and then took advantage of the Family Medical Leave Act and by taking eight weeks of unpaid leave. While on leave, she received two doses of the Pfizer vaccine and learned she still had not produced antibodies to protect her from the virus. She again asked that she be allowed to continue working from home, but IWD denied each of those requests, her lawsuit claims. On Oct. 12, 2021, Petersen emailed Gov. Kim Reynolds chief of staff, expressing concern that the states refusal to let Born work remotely appeared to be disability-based discrimination. Petersen never received a reply from the governors office, the lawsuit alleges. After Born sent IWD a formal request for a disability accommodation to work remotely, the agency notified Born she was to report the following day no later than 8 a.m. to her workstation, where plexiglass and an air filter had been prepared for her. The lawsuit does not specify whether Born returned to the office, but says IWD fired her on Dec. 17, 2021. Her lawsuit, filed in Polk County District Court, seeks unspecified damages for disability discrimination in violation of the Iowa Civil Rights Act and for retaliation in response to her requesting accommodations for her disability. IWD has yet to file a response to the allegations. Northeast Iowa Artists' Studio Tour 2023 2023 26th NIAST logo copy.jpg 8.2022 Elea self IMG_5602 copy.jpeg 17. Dobson David_Platter.jpg 17.Dobson_David self copy 2.jpg 2023 Warren Shuros copy.jpg Carl Homstad painting WC vert.jpg George Blair.jpg 18.Blair George copy.jpg 19.Easker_Velga copy.jpg Peggy Steve Kittelson.jpg 27.2023 Kittelson STUDIO TOUR IMAGE copy.jpeg Darla Ellickson self.jpg Darla Ellickson_Nature Therapy set.jpg deb Fenn pumpkin stem 1 copy.jpg George Lowe in his studio.jpg IMG-2141 Paul Corbin copy.jpeg Marcia Cook copy.jpg Shoemaker, Joel-self # 2 copy.jpeg Walking up and down Sioux Citys West Seventh Street is like stepping back into time for Jim Tillman. The major thoroughfare was the route where he and his friends would ride their bikes as kids. It was also the street hed take when walking to the Boys Club every day after school. However, for an older generation, West Seventh Street was where Sioux Citys blues, gospel, jazz and rock and roll was born. Long-ago establishments with names like Club 51, the 711 Lounge and the Swingin Place were where residents would go for an evening of revelry. Back in the day, you could do a little sinning at a neighborhood club on a Saturday night and save your soul at the Mount Sinai Holiness Church on Sunday morning, Tillman, a Sioux City-based historian and author of The Journal of African-American History: Sioux City, explained with a smile. The nice thing is you could do without having to leave West Seventh Street. West 7th Street musical history Jim Tillman, a chronicler of Black history in Sioux City, points down West Seventh Street in Sioux City. Tillman will be part of the city's fi West Seventh Street, past and present, will be celebrated at The Sounds of West Seventh, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at Yummi Blox, 700 W. Seventh St. It will be a fun day with live music, food trucks and art, Sioux City Community Inclusion Liaison Semehar Ghebrekidan explained. It will also highlight one of the citys most inclusive districts. Ghebrekidan isnt kidding. At various times in the Sioux Citys history, West Seventh has been home to businesses owned by the Jewish population as well by members of the Black, Hispanic and Asian communities. Or if you ask Charlie Prochelo, business ownership might have been a bit murky at time. My uncle A.J. Tony Prochelo owned both the 711 Lounge and Club 51, but there was never a piece of paper with his name to prove it, he said, somewhat mysteriously. Uncle Tony was what you would the silent partner at both clubs. West 7th Street musical history Jim Tillman, a chronicler of Black history in Sioux City, sits in front of Archie's Diner on West Seventh Street. Archie Arvin owned the diner Indeed, other members of the Prochelo Family owned such still-remembered establishments like the Orbit Room, the Turin Inn and and the Triangle Club. I used to bartend at the Triangle Club, Charlie Prochelo said. That was a fun place but it wasnt on West Seventh. As a customer, Charlie Prochelo preferred the 711 Lounge, which his Uncle Tony sold to Clarence Kenner sometime in the 1960s. Clarence Kenner was from Kansas City and was a trumpeter in the Count Basie Orchestra during its heyday, Charlie Prochelo said. When Clarence ran it, 711 was the place for jazz in Sioux City. Thats also the way Tillman remembered the 711 W. Seventh St. hotspot, which is now home to a car window tinting business. Clarences 711 was classy, he said. Ladies had to dress appropriately and men had to wear dress slacks and button-up dress shirts. You couldnt look raggedy if you wanted to come into the 711. West 7th Street musical history Jim Tillman, a chronicler of Black history in Sioux City, stands in front of what was once the 711 Club, 711 West Seventh St. The dress code was also the same for entertainers. Music was a side job for a lot of musicians, Tillman said, Guys would be working at meatpacking plants during the day. Then, theyd get dressed up in tuxedos to perform at night. Prochelo recalled seeing well-known performers like Preston Love Sr. at the 711. Preston Love Sr. was an incredible saxophone player from Omaha, he said. Like Clarence Kenner, Preston worked with Count Basie before moving back to the Midwest. Prochelo also saw Ash Bizzett, who was once a drummer with the world famous Ink Spots. Ash had a son named Russell, Prochelo said. Russell Bizzett played the 711 Lounge as a young man. He later played drums with big named acts like Deep Purple. West 7th Street musical history COVER Jim Tillman, a chronicler of Black history in Sioux City, stands in front of what was once the 711 Club, 711 West Seventh St. In case you didnt know, Deep Purple was also a band which featured a fellow Sioux Cityan named Tommy Bolin. Tommy Bolin also got his start at the 711 Lounge, Tillman said. Even though Clarence Kenner was Black, he was colorblind when it came to talent. If you were good, like Tommy Bolin was, Clarence wanted you to play at 711. But times were changing at the 711 Lounge. Clarence Kenner died in the early 1970s and it went through several owners, Tillman said. It stopped being the classy place it once was. Indeed, West Seventh Street, in general, became a place where Tillmans mom wanted him to avoid. West Seventh became a rough place, Tillman said. Much of that changed as small, family owned restaurants, grocery stores and beauty parlors started moving in. Today, you can see businesses owned by may different nationalities along West Seventh, Ghebrekidan said. Its become a street and a neighborhood we can be proud of. Which is why The Sounds of West Seventh will take place at Yummi Blox, a food truck owned by Peggy La, whose family owns the nearby Hong Kong Food Market. West Seventh Street might not have as many nightclubs as it did in the past, Ghebrekidan said. But it does have plenty of multiculturalism. At The Sounds of West Seventh, Tillman will give a presentation on the streets colorful past. Yet he is also looking forward to its future. West Seventh isnt the same place it was when I was a kid, he said. Its different but it still has an energy and excitement like nowhere else in Sioux City. U.S. democracy is in crisis. Books are being banned, new voter suppression laws abound, and leading presidential candidates flirt with fascism. As the hot labor summer of 2023 extends into autumn, including a high-profile visit by President Joe Biden to the United Auto Workers picket lines, the slew of national strikes and labor actions seems unrelated to our democracy problem. The unions actions are generally viewed as disputes about wages and benefits. But in fact, there is a close connection: Unions have a crucial and vastly underappreciated role in shoring up our fragile democracy. Historically, fascists have grasped the potential power of labor organizations: Nazis persecuted trade unionists, for example, as did the Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet. They understood that unions empower regular people to join together and have agency in their own lives, an endeavor that is inherently anti-authoritarian. As autoworkers, actors, writers, and others have taken to the picket lines, the resulting images have been of crowds that are nonviolent, militant yet joyful, and multiracial, everyday people lifting their voices together in the service of the pro-social, positive goal of better lives at work. Theres been a lot of commentary on the various strikes: horse-race opinions about the unions strategies and demands, analysis of the economic impact, self-interested questions about when our beloved shows will again begin streaming. Some pundits have raised concerns about the UAW strikes potential impact on the 2024 election: Will a prolonged auto-industry strike harm Bidens chances? Will Michigan voters fall for Donald Trumps baloney visit to a nonunion auto parts plant this week (an insulting ploy to paint himself as pro-worker despite a terrible record on labor)? Advertisement But theres been little to no discussion about the value of such highly visible union activity to our democracy. Unionsthemselves democratic institutionsare critical for a healthy democracy: Research shows they reduce economic inequality, build cross-racial solidarity, and help people grow their democratic muscle. Advertisement Advertisement Consider the current UAW strike. UAW president Shawn Fain, a reformer opposing the unions old guard, was elected by members in the unions first-ever direct election. Bargaining proposals were developed with direct input from members, who submitted thousands of resolutions that were considered by leadership and bargaining committees and some of which were incorporated into fully formed proposals. UAW members overwhelmingly voted to authorize the strike. Fain and the negotiating team are providing transparency on negotiations; theyve refused to bargain secretly on core demands: Theyre updating membership regularly including through social media. Meanwhile, it is union members themselves who are standing up and putting their livelihoods on the line. The same is true of other high-profile strikes and almost strikes of 2023. Union members, including Teamsters, actors, and writers, elected their leaders. The media often lazily refers to union bosses, an inaccurate and smearing term with organized-crime connotations. But union leaders the opposite of bosses: Theyre chosen by and genuinely answerable to their members. For example, they cant alone declare a strike. Members must authorize a strike ahead of time. (Nevadas powerful culinary union authorized a strike just Tuesday.) And union members must vote to approve any agreement thats reached. Writers Guild members will vote on whether to accept the tentative agreement reached this week with the Hollywood studios; similarly, when the Teamsters reached an agreement with UPS, members voted (86 percent) to approve the contract and avert a strike; the contract itself contained terms members had identified as priorities, such as air conditioning in UPS trucks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Given the ongoing participation and engagement that union membersordinary workershave in relation to their work lives, its not surprising that research shows that unions increase democratic participation overall. A little-known fact: Unions increase voter turnout in general, with an even greater impact on people with lower levels of formal education or lower income levels. One study plainly stated, The greater the share of workers represented by unions, the greater is the turnout. Conversely, voter restriction laws are more likely to pass in states with lower union density. Studies show, too, that unions encourage more civic interactions with co-workers. Unions also help promote elected political leadership from people with working- and middle-class jobs. For example, the AFL-CIO runs a union member candidate program to try to foster more political leadership from labor-oriented working people who cant provide their own war chest to a campaign. Advertisement Advertisement (Conservatives might argue that unions arent good for democracy per se, but rather are better for the Democratic Party, since unions heavily back Democrats. But higher voter turnout and more representative political leadership are plainly good for democracy. And if unions support Democrats, that stems from the reality that Democrats fight for change that will benefit working people, including not only job-related issues like higher minimum wages and paid leave, but also broader issues like increased education funding and continuation of the child care tax credit.) What exactly is the mechanism by which unions lead to increased civic engagement? One theory is that workers become accustomed to being active and engaged, having agency over their lives, participating in a common endeavor, and having a voice. In this way, unions have been described as helping build democratic muscle. Also, union involvement in the political realm leads to policies that meet working peoples needs; this creates a virtuous cycle in which civic participation seems more worthwhile, as people see that government can tangibly improve their lives. Advertisement Another benefit: Unions help build cross-racial solidarity. Footage of the UAW strike, for example, shows a multiracial array of strikers and supporters chanting and picketing together. And todays union members are far more diverse than those of yesteryear. Nationwide, around two-thirds of working people covered by a union contract are women and/or people of color. Indeed, union membership has also been shown to reduce racial resentment among white workers and promote interracial solidarity. This makes sense: Unions involve workers joining together in a common cause. In this way, unions offer an alternative to the ugly scapegoating and division too many working stiffcosplaying conservative politicians offer in place of real solutions. Advertisement Advertisement The American public increasingly understands the value of unions in our society. In a recent Gallup poll, 67 percent of respondents said they approve of unions. Respondents also overwhelmingly supported the writers union, actors union, and UAW over their corporate employers; theres a visceral positive reaction, it seems, in seeing regular people joining to stand up to corporate powers. In another poll, half of the respondents in nonunion jobs said they would support a union in their workplace. (Despite this popularity, outdated laws and vicious corporate anti-union campaigns have kept union density low in the United States around 10 percent nationally.) Advertisement Advertisement Perhaps the public is coming to realize that the labor movement is one of the only national institutions operating at a scale, with a membership base of millions, that can at least sometimes serve as a counterbalance both to emerging fascism and to unbridled corporate interests. Indeed, the widespread public support for the UAW workers likely reflects empathetic solidarity with people who seeking more control over their own lives, despite powerful forces that would deny this. Theres a lot of fretting currently about what to do about U.S. democracy; it feels more fragile than it has in generations. Bolstering and forming unions is an important answer to this urgent problem. Labor unrest can be tumultuous and strikes can feel destabilizing, but unions as a whole help create conditions in which democracy can thrive. In this context, highly visible labor actions, including strikes, can help give hope to the broader population: They model human agency along with the possibility of democratic revival. A woman stands in a doorway, light flooding the air around her. The walls are dense with photographs arranged in uneven rows, but you cant make out more than the shape and the color of the people in them, because the focus is solely on herhead bowed, arms outstretched, as if her body is an antenna carefully pointed at the heavens. Everything else is a blur. The woman is Renee Bach, an evangelical Christian missionary at the center of the three-part HBO docuseries Savior Complex. In 2009, Bach, then 19, founded a nonprofit in Jinja, Uganda, called Serving His Children, which was focused on feeding the areas malnourished children. (According to a 2019 report from UNICEF, a third of Ugandan children suffer the long-term effects of malnutrition, and it is responsible for 4 out of 10 deaths in children under age 5.) Because the children who came to Serving His Children for food tended to be sick in other ways, the facility unofficially took on the functions of a medical centerand because Bach saw herself as someone who had been called to the task by God, she felt empowered to assume some of those functions herself, without being licensed or formally trained. As the saying that gives Savior Complexs first episode its title goes, God doesnt call the qualified. He qualifies the called. That image of Bach standing amid Serving His Childrens wooden cots, surrounded by photos of Ugandan children, was used in the organizations fundraising materials, and its a perfect encapsulation of how Bach saw herself, or at least wanted to be seen: as a vessel for Gods will, saving both lives and souls. Each picture, she tells the cameras, represents one life changed. But the photograph becomes a weapon to be used against her, particularly by the activist group No White Saviors, which accused Bach of fraud, negligence, and bearing the responsibility for the deaths of more than 100 children in Serving His Childrens care. The young white woman is centered, distinct, the African children whose lives she claims to have changed reduced to blurry background detail. When the picture appears on No White Saviors Instagram feed at the end of Savior Complexs second episode, it does so under a caption reading Angel of Death. Advertisement Advertisement For much of its first two episodes, Savior Complex flops between these two perspectives, leaning heavily toward the second. The opening shots feel like the setup for a true crime expose, with Bach cooking dinner for her adopted Ugandan daughter and referencing newspaper headlines calling her a serial killer, which the documentary leaves uncontextualized for maximum shock value. Jackie Kramlich, an American nurse who volunteered at Serving His Children, describes her increasing horror as she worked alongside Bach, watching her administer medical care she was not trained to provide, a combination of ignorance and arrogance that put childrens lives in danger. And No White Saviors, a group led by Olivia Alaso, a Black Ugandan, and Kelsey Nielsen, an American who describes herself as a white savior in recovery, push the charges substantially further, accusing Bach of conducting medical experiments on the children. As far as theyre concerned, shes a murderer who belongs in prison, and theyre not going to stop until shes behind bars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HBO is spreading Savior Complexs broadcast over two nights rather than three weeks, and it released all the episodes to streaming at the same time. (The final two episodes air tonight, but theyre all already available to stream on Max.) It turns out to be a wise move, because by the end of its second episode, I was so frustrated with what felt like its tendentious point of view that I was reluctant to press play on the third. Bachs behavior is questionable at best, but No White Saviors approach seems equally reckless and self-aggrandizing, lobbing indiscriminate accusations for social media clout with no regard for what the collateral damage might be. Bach is an easy targetas she reads from an accusatory comment left by Nielsen on Serving His Childrens Facebook page, she stumbles over the word neocolonialism, trying it several times before giving up entirely. But I kept thinking back to Bachs statement, early in the series, that shes taken the hit for every white person who ever stepped foot in Uganda, which, while betraying a characteristic lack of self-reflection and a hint of martyrdomat one point, she says a photo of her injecting fluid into a childs head through an intravenous catheter has been used to crucify medoesnt seem entirely wrong. Abner Tagoola, the head of pediatrics at Jinja Hospital, calmly turns the crusade back on the filmmakers when he points out, You have come all the way from America for one person. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shoe finally drops in the middle of the series final episode, Reap What You Sow. No White Saviors splinters over the allegation that Nielsen misappropriated funds, which Nielsen deniedaccording to a 2022 report in the Guardian, the debate over whether it was appropriate for a white person to have a prominent role in the organization was also a contributing factorand the charges against Bach collapse due to a lack of evidence, although she does agree to pay small settlements to the mothers of two children who died after seeking treatment at Serving His Children. But more importantly, the episode is the first to give real prominence to Ugandan voices. The key figure in the storys final chapter isnt Bach or Nielsen but Primah Kwagala, the civil rights lawyer who presses the mothers civil suit against Bach. As the rhetorical war between Bach and No White Saviors escalatesBach flees back to her home in rural Virginia after the Angel of Death post sparks death threatsKwagala remains even-keeled and focused on serving the bereaved mothers rather than building up an image of herself. She, like Tagoola, is mindful of the bigger picture. Online activist groups like No White Saviors are great at drawing attention to injustice, but outrage burns too hot to sustain long-term solutions, while people like Bach have access to faith-based fundraising networks that also insulate them from accountability. No White Saviors succeeds in toxifying Serving His Childrens brand, but its not clear what if anything will replace the work that it did. Whos serving those people now? Bach asks. Is it Kelsey? She hasnt posted about it once, so Im pretty sure its not happening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related From Slate Hasan Minhaj Meant Something to Brown Americans. Was It All an Act? Read More The idea that Nielsen couldnt possibly have done something good without documenting it on social media is staggering both in its presumptuousness and its apparent accuracy. And Bach, who detailed her work in a string of blog posts, seems no different. When the filmmakers confront her over Jackie Kramlichs accusation that she gave a sick child a blood transfusion without proper medical supervision, Bach admits that her blog post omitted the presence of a nurse in the room because, At the time, I wrote in the blog in a really first-person manner. Jesus counseled his followers to do good deeds in secret, but Bach contends that putting herself out front was good for appealing to donors, which in turn was good for her cause. Her supporters connected with the idea of her doing the lords work more than the work itself; even after Bach returned to the United States and Serving His Childrens leadership was taken over by Ugandans, donations never recovered. Growing up in Uganda, says No White Saviors Alaso, she got the idea that white missionaries were more blessed than us, because they looked like the Jesus on the wall. Charity clusters around recognizable forms and familiar stories, the image of a woman with her hands spread and eyes closed, channeling Gods will through the kind of vessel he always seems to choose. How to Do It is Slates sex advice column. Have a question? Send it to Stoya and Rich here. Its anonymous! Dear How to Do It, I am a 55-year-old, happily married woman of 32 years. My husband is a wonderful, sexy man and in almost every way makes me very happy. But, I am stuck when it comes to our sex life. I need to admit that when I was a full-time mom, I put our sex life on the back burner. He is very much a responsive sex type of guy, so for a long time we had sex infrequently, as it was up to me to initiate and I was tired. Fast forward to the last couple of years, our kids are out of the house. I lost a bunch of weight, my sex drive came back without the daily demands of kids in the house, I made sex a priority, and we have sex three times a week on average, with even more nights being sensual without necessarily having sex. At the beginning of our reignited sex life, I bought him Viagra (which he appreciated), invested in a bunch of lingerie, did a bunch of research on things that might make him happy, and basically, in every way took over the responsibility of our sex life (including introducing him to anal orgasms, bondage, etc.). He really, really likes being dominated and has said on more than one occasion that its so nice for him to not have to take charge of sex (he has a very big job and basically is in charge there 60 hours a week, so I get that). He no longer needs Viagra and seems very happy and in many ways grateful that our relationship has blossomed during this second chapter in our lives. Advertisement Advertisement I initially was just so excited to connect with him physically and emotionally again, that I let more and more slide, and now I am writing you. Even at the beginning of this new chapter, he wasnt very into penis-in-vagina sex (he says it feels nice but isnt enough to get him there). In the beginning, he would do it for me, although I had to initiate it. But, as time has gone on, he has gotten less and less interested in ANYTHING having to do with me. His words say I am willing to try anything but he never, ever actually does anything about it, with the exception that he bought sexier underwear (and wants to be complimented for that). He tried a vibrator with me at my suggestion one time a year ago, but when I couldnt get there in five minutes, he said, Maybe we can try that again another time, and then later suggested, Maybe I should use that before or after on my own. Advertisement It has gotten so bad that he honestly wants me to kiss him, tie him up, do a bunch of stuff to him, and then thank him when we are done. How do I slowly get him back to the point where sex is more mutual? I know him well enough to know I need to take it slow. I cant just dump all of this on him (although tempting some days) because it wont go well and very likely will end up back with no sex at all, resulting in no emotional connection. Its getting to the point where I am only doing it for the emotional connection, and although that was enough in the beginning, I am really struggling with the idea that this is going to be it for the rest of our lives together. What do I do? Please Tell Me There Is Hope Dear Tell Me There Is Hope, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Firstly, congrats. Sex/intimacy three-plus times a week is a good amount at any age and time, but its especially impressive that its happening three decades into your marriage. Also, so many people write in asking how to resurrect a dead bed. What youve achieved is something close to sorcery. Be proud. Your issue is legit, and I dont want to downplay your frustration, but youve overcome major hurdles (I mean, your husband no longer needing Viagra alone is huge!), and sometimes doing so requires concessions. To be clear, your pleasure and satisfaction shouldnt be among those concessionsI just want you to have some perspective here. It could be that your sex life looks like what it does right now because, to some degree, it needs to. There is room in every situation for improvement, though, and I think youre right to strive for it. Advertisement Since your husband is into being dominated, have you tried ordering him to work on you? He may find submission to be a total refuge and might not react well to specific orders along these lines, but I think its worth trying. Outside of bed, a conversation is in order. Start small. You may want to focus on his reaction to the vibrator. Why has he expressed an explicit lack of interest in playing with you and the vibrator? What about it turned him off? I think you can parlay that into a broader conversation about your pleasure. Does he agree that youre entitled to it, as well? Does he understand how, from your perspective, things are a bit lopsided? Obviously, you cant force or coerce him into doing anything he doesnt want. Your husband might just be a pillow princess. But you at least deserve some clarity. Advertisement Advertisement Help us keep giving the advice you crave every week. Sign up for Slate Plus now. Dear How to Do It, How important is it for adults to have someone (other than a significant other) to talk to about sex? I ask because I lost a dear friend just over a year ago, and this person was someone I could talk to about all kinds of things, including details of my love life. I realize that I no longer have such a person in my life. I met this friend in college, and though we had our ups and downs, we were there for each other through many relationships and hookups and talked about them all. The friends I do have now, while wonderful, arent folks I would want to share those kinds of musings with. My spouse is also not an ideal candidate for these conversations, for various reasons, despite us having a very honest and open communication style. Ive found that aside from missing everything about my late friend, the lack of this type of confidante has left me feeling exceptionally lonely. Beyond that, I dont even know how to make those kinds of friendships as an adult. Any advice? Lonely But Not Alone Dear Lonely But Not Alone, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well, I dont think anyone has died as a result of having nowhere to put their sex secrets, so lets assume that having someone to confide in about sex is less important than, say, oxygen, food, and shelter. But to what extent is subjective. Clearly, it is important to you. Theres some data on the great degree to which confiding in others may be useful to us, though generally, the kinds of secrets studied are distressing or traumatic (i.e. things to be confessed). That makes me wonder what your relationship to sex isif you want to reveal certain things about your sex life/sexuality that you are ashamed of, whether theyre unethical or not, you may want to start seeing a sex therapist. In that case, youd be paying someone to listen to your secrets with the added bonus of possibly receiving useful guidance. Its similarly somewhat disconcerting that your spouse isnt someone that you can share this information withif what youre doing requires you to keep it from your spouse to keep going (i.e. because youre cheating), reconsider your life decisions. But its quite possible, given the wide range of ways in which people connect, that you could have a healthy relationship that just doesnt involve discussions of sex. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, the Psychology Today piece I linked to above reports: Research has also shown that confiding or disclosing stressful secrets in ways that circumvent the risk of social rejection (e.g., writing or speaking into a tape recorder) is similarly linked to better mental health outcomes and subjective well-being, which may explain the enduring popularity of diaries and private journals. If you arent keeping a journal, you should start. Various phone apps allow for encryption if security is a concern. You could also set an anonymous profile up on something like Reddit and post on a subreddit like r/sexstories or r/gonewildstories (r/sex is another option, though it has quite a few guidelines, and posts are generally supposed to be tailored to seek knowledge or advice). Advertisement Regarding making friends as an adult, thats something of an eternal question. In a New York Times piece last year, Marisa Franco, a psychologist who studies friendship, gave a bunch of recommendations, including joining groups that meet regularly over time and that allow for conversation, like professional development groups and book clubs. I think its crucial to be friendly and open, and to be willing to go deep. I dont recommend enumerating your kinks right after saying hello, but I do suggest efficiently getting past small talk for more substantial subject matter. As you know, this kind of relationship is something you must build over time. Have patience, faith, and a good attitude, and you just might. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dear How to Do It, I am a cis male, mid-30s, and I dont know if this is typical or not but is it normal that Ive never had an orgasm while receiving head? I have been active for a long time, with multiple partners, and not once, have I ever come close (pun intended). I cant be the only guy with this issue (if it can even be called that). I dont have an issue with penetration, Im able to achieve orgasm that way, but not head. I feel sad for never experiencing that. I enjoy it, I really really do, but I just cant get there. Help? Finish Line Dear Finish Line, Advertisement Advertisement Anecdotally, this is quite commonI hear guys (guys who include sex partners, potential sex partners, and platonic sisters) who say, I cant come from head. There are tons of potential reasons for this, including a surprising abundance of people who arent great at giving head (when I encounter a power bottom like this, I have to wonder, What are you doing with your life?, though I wouldnt be rude enough to actually ask that). Its quite possible that you just havent gotten the right blowjob yet. If you come across someone whos really enthusiastic about sucking your dick, to the point where theyre open for direction, try experimenting with them, giving feedback on what feels good (so many guys love to be deep-throated, but no one should ever expect a cocksucker who can do it for any length of timeits just an added bonus when someone possesses that special skill). Advertisement Advertisement Even with a good blow job, sometimes the stimulation just isnt quite strong enough. Have you ever had someone suck and stroke you at the same time? That could help. Sometimes through masturbation, we become so habituated to our own grip that different types of stimulation just dont do it for us. You may also want to go some time without masturbating/orgasming before you receive head to see if you can foster some sensitivity through deprivation. Regardless, you have a way that you can come with a partner (intercourse), which is always a great backup plan. Rich More Advice From Slate Im afraid theres something wrong with the way I orgasm. Ive heard multiple experts describe how longer foreplay, edging, and being more turned on result in a stronger orgasm, but for me it seems to be the opposite. Jeremy Stahl: Do you agree with President Trumps comments that its a terrible thing, Gov. DeSantis six-week abortion ban in Florida? Kari Lake: I think President Trump has a right to speak on abortion more than anybody, because he did more than anybody to save lives. Do you personally agree with what he said about that policy, though? What about it. That it was a terrible thing? I think every state has the right to decide where their abortion law is going to be. Florida chose six weeks. Arizona has 15 weeks. Other states may do 22 weeks, I dont know where its all going to flush out, but the reason that we wanted Roe v. Wade brought down was unconstitution[al]. The right lies at the state. But what we do need to do better, and I agree with President Trump on this: Weve got to start listening to why women are walking into these abortion clinics. Were not helping people. People are struggling. I talked to or listened to an interview with a woman who found herself in an abortion clinic because she said I cant afford to have a baby. Can you imagine that. Our economy, everything is so bad that a woman was going to take the life of her baby because she couldnt afford that baby. Weve got to do a better job. The left says theyre pro-choice; theyre anti-choice, because when you walk into a clinic, youre not given any choices as a woman who walks in. Theyre scared to death and nobody says Why are you doing this, how can we help you? And I think Republicans need to do more to help women and I think we will. President Trump was talking about baby bonuses, we want to help women become mothers. Personally, though, which policy do you prefer, the 6-week abortion ban that governor Ron DeSantis has, or the 15-week one in Arizona? I dont have a say in that. Florida is Florida. What about Arizona? I see what youre trying to do, youre trying to make this whole thing about abortion. President Trump has saidand you smile, you smile. Because youre probably a leftist. Yeah, I think that you are. OK. We the Republicans Gov. DeSantis brought this up on the stage, he specifically mentioned it. So The Republicans are for helping women. The left is not for that. They are for extreme measures all the way up until birth, OK. You do realize that, right? Your personal policy, you dont want to say whether its Gov. DeSantis or President Trumps? Im pro-life, but Im also about helping women, and I realize that in many states, there are abortion laws that are 15 weeks or 22 weeks or whatever it is. The American people do not want abortion up until nine months pregnant. If you were governor of Arizona right now, would it be a six-week ban or something different? Theres already a law in Arizona thats on the books thats a 15-week ban. Do your homework the next time you ask a question because you dont look very smart. You look dumb. The second GOP presidential primary debate was filled with unfunny jokes, chaotic cross-talk, and Ron DeSantis awkward attempts to smile like a normal human being. But there was one standout moment: when Nikki Haley clashed with Vivek Ramaswamy over his TikTok usage. One of the moderators asked Ramaswamy to explain why he became the only Republican presidential candidate to join TikTok, despite controversy over the apps ties to China, after meeting with 26-year-old influencer Jake Paul. (Before that, Ramaswamy had called the app digital fentanyl and called for it to be banned completely.) Ramaswamy said that he joined the platform as a way to reach young Americans, and added that he believes children under 16 should be banned from using addictive social media. Let me level with all of youIm the new guy here, so I know I have to earn your trust, he added. Haley jumped in, kicking off a fiery exchange. This is infuriating because TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media apps that we could have, and honestly, every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber for what you say, Haley said. The two went on to speak over each other for a long moment before Ramaswamy ceded the floor. We cant trust you! Haley concluded. We cant trust you! Advertisement Haley to Ramaswamy: Every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber pic.twitter.com/sK7UNryOyl Acyn (@Acyn) September 28, 2023 Advertisement The exchange comes amid a national debate over whether TikTok should be banned in the U.S. over fears that the app, which is owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, might share user data with the Chinese government. The app is wildly popular in the U.S., with nearly 30 percent of adults saying they have a TikTok account. More than 30 states have already banned TikTok on state-owned devices, and federal employees were also directed to delete it from any government-linked devices. Related From Slate There Can Only Be One (Top Alternate to Trump) Read More Haley has been among those opposed to the app. Were going to ban TikTok, she told voters while campaigning in New Hampshire in March. Ban TikTok everywhere. Haleys opinion of Ramaswamy seems to have soured since 2021, when his book Woke, Inc. came out, complete with a glowing blurb from her. Vivek speaks the truth without fear His combination of honesty, intellect, and foresight are exactly what we need to overcome our challenges in the years ahead, she wrote at the time. The second, Trump-less Republican presidential debate Wednesday night at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in California was an often ugly, uncontrollable mess between a septet of candidates trying either to stay in the mix or leap to a new stage of competitiveness. There was not one, single targetthere were seven. (Well, six. Love ya, Doug Burgum. Youll get time to speak shortly). The melee reflected the changing landscape among the non-Trump candidates since the first debate. Leading into Augusts throw down, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was still the clear Trump alternative. That wasnt the case heading into Wednesday night. DeSantis is now actively duking it out for primacy in the race to take on Donald Trump down the stretch. Before Trump, DeSantis has to contend with Nikki Haley, whose polling support and resources have risen since a strong first debate, and with Tim Scott, whom the donor class and pre-Trump establishment likes but needs to see a little more from. Haley, once again, had the strongest debate, mixing well-prepared answers on education, China, and the border with the only noncringeworthy zingers in a night full of catastrophic attempts from her competitors. There was something spectacular in Haley that prompted her, following Vivek Ramaswamys consultant-borne direct-to-camera moment trying to level with voters who find him annoying, to turn to him and say, Every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber. (Dont confuse the fields kicking of Ramaswamy, which picked up right where it left off from the first debate, with fear of him. It gets them speaking time and attention to get into it with a real, live character, in Trumps absence.) The only Trump campaign attack email I received during the debate was one titled The Real Nikki Haley, listing her supposed heresies. Shes made the Trump campaigns radar, which has been trained almost exclusively on DeSantis for the duration of the campaign. Advertisement Advertisement What of DeSantis? First: He continues to need work on his pivot from speaking to smiling. This is grisly, folks: DeSantis cant help but do that weird smile thing. pic.twitter.com/5L4Fo7JYuT Matt Fuller (@MEPFuller) September 28, 2023 Advertisement In the first hour of the debate, DeSantis stayed above the fray as if he were the undisputed top dog onstage. Hes not. He picked it up in the second half though and scored his best moment of either debate when he cut off a going-nowhere dispute between Haley and Scott about whod accomplished more and pointed out what was, all those months ago when he was touted as a front-runner, his strength: He really did change the political culture of one of the largest swing states in the country into a conservative bastion, and under great scrutiny. Advertisement Advertisement Ron DeSantis brings the house down at the #GOPdebate: "I'm the only one up here who's gotten in the big fights and has delivered big victories." "People respond to leadership. I've done it while others have talked about it!" pic.twitter.com/hFkzujegzz Never Back Down (@NvrBackDown24) September 28, 2023 Advertisement Advertisement DeSantis also successfully rallied the stage against moderator Dana Perinos power trip of a theme question demanding the participants write down which candidate onstage theyd vote off the island. Leadership! The candidate most visibly changed from the first debateand not just because he was sporting a slight goateewas Tim Scott. Maybe it was nerves, or getting a feel for the situation, but Scott was nowhere back in August. He absorbed much feedback about that. In this debate, he was more forceful not just in his speaking but in the elbows he was throwing, too. Advertisement Scott tousled briefly with DeSantis, reiterating his criticism of the Florida middle school curriculum instructing students that slaves learned useful skills in their enslavement. But he saved his dirtiest work for Haley, whom he hit for raising the gas tax as governor of South Carolina, and for the long-forgotten dust-up about expensive new curtains during her time as United Nations ambassador. Advertisement The problem for Scott is that Haley is still a better debaterBring it, Tim, she said when he began going down the attack pathand his hits werent on especially meaningful stuff. The curtains episode (discussion of which may go down in the transcript as CURTAINS [CROSS-TALK] CURTAINS??) involved swanky new fabrics that were purchased during the Obama administration. Did you send them back? Scott pressed. Did you send them back?? Fight-y Tim Scott is a work in progress. But it is, finally, in progress. Related From Slate Trumps Absence From the GOP Debate Finally Mattered Read More Elsewhere, two candidates who remain unviable because too large a chunk of the Republican electorate views them as traitors for not being very nice to Mr. Trump whiffed on some lines. Advertisement Chris Christie has based his entire campaign on his ability to take it to Donald Trump directly. But he cant do it directly, since Trump isnt showing up to the debates. All he can do is point his finger at the camera. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Youre ducking these things, Christie said to the absent Trump. And let me tell you whats going to happen. You keep doing that, no one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore. Here, I thought he was building up to calling Trump fuckface, or something interesting. Instead, he went to: Were going to call you Donald Duck. An agonizing payoff. Christie also had the most uncalled-for line of the night when, while inveighing against teachers unions, he noted that you have the president of the United States sleeping with a member of the teachers unions. Well, it was the most uncalled for moment of the night, until former Vice President Mike Pence, Christies fellow unviable competitor, said a few minutes later that My wife isnt a member of the teachers union, but Ive got to admit, Ive been sleeping with a teacher for 38 years. Advertisement Related From Slate The Most Heated Moment of the Debate Read More Ramaswamy, who is too annoying to poll much higher in the race, nevertheless made for a good CHINA! punching bag given his history of doing business in the country. (A win for Russia is a win for China, Haley said to him during the Ukraine portion of the evening, but I forgot you like China.) Doug Burgum, bless him, technically had the least speaking time of any candidates, but was bugging the moderators for time for almost the entirety of the debate, his voice reverberating in the cavernous glass building from his lectern on the wing. When he does speak, he gives a lightning-fast summary of the days economic geopolitics (his takeaway is that we need more American drilling!) before his time runs out. Well see if he makes the third debate. Advertisement That third debate is scheduled for Nov. 8 in Miami. After Wednesdays proceedings wrapped, the Trump campaign released a statement saying the Republican National Committee should cancel it and any other debates it has planned. Advertisement Tonights GOP debate was as boring and inconsequential as the first debate, and nothing that was said will change the dynamics of the primary contest being dominated by President Trump, senior adviser Chris LaCivita said, before insisting that the RNC should immediately put an end to any further primary debates so we can train our fire on Crooked Joe Biden and quit wasting time and money that could be going to evicting Biden from the White House. I dont think this debate was inconsequential. Haley will continue rising, DeSantis found some footing, and Scott showed up. But if these second-tier debates are to serve a larger purpose, they need, eventually, to identify one candidate who presents the best option for beating Trump in Iowa. Because if that doesnt happen, this truly has been a waste of time. SIMI VALLEY, CaliforniaOn Wednesday evening at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, the candidates seeking the Republican nomination for president again debated in the sizable shadow of the absent front-runner. Like last months debate, it was a messy affair filled with cross-talk and personal insults that likely gave the four-time indicted former president many things to smile about. Amid that chaos, though, were a handful of small moments that, if replicated a lot more on a lot bigger stages, might finally start to crack the veneer of invincibility surrounding Donald Trump. Specifically, the candidates on the stage finally began to launch frontal attacks on Trump for not bothering to face his opponents. It was cowardly, they argued, and disrespectful of Republican voters. Donald Trump is missing in action. He should be on this stage tonight, said Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, the closest competitor to Trump in national polling. He owes it to you to defend his record, where they added $7.8 trillion to the debt. After the debate, in the spin room, DeSantis communications director Andrew Romeo called the response his candidates best moment of the night (even though former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie gave pretty much the exact same answer moments before DeSantis got his chance). Advertisement And after the debate, commentary about Trumps absence was one of the most common lines of discussion in the spin room. Advertisement Defeated 2022 Arizona gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake, a Trump supporter in attendance, was peppered with questions about his absence by such varied outlets as Fox News and a child reporter from Kids Scoop Media, who asked pointedly: When do you think that President Trump should start showing up to these debates and answering the hard questions in front of the nation? Its a question that the DeSantis surrogates were also eager to raise. [The audience] saw that Donald Trump is too afraid to step on the stage and [defend his record] and I think thats going to be a theme going forward for the campaign, said Romeo. Advertisement The theme was echoed by former Trump 2020 press communications director Erin Perrinewho is now the communications director for DeSantis super PAC. Gov. DeSantis can stand up there and take it all. He can take the heat better than anybody and he never backs down from a fight, Perrine said. You know who backed down from the fight tonight: Donald Trump when he didnt show up to this debate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately for DeSantis, Team Trump has a readymade and pretty stinging rebuke to these taunts: Have fun at the kids table. These guys were here on the D-list debate fighting amongst each other, Lake offered. Related From Slate What the Chaotic GOP Debate Actually Clarified Read More As Lake further noted, DeSantis has fallen to fifth place in one recent poll of the critical first-in-the-nation New Hampshire primary, even as hes managed to stop flatlining in polls of the Iowa caucuses thanks in part to a statewide barnstorming campaign. Lake went on to describe the evening as a nightmare of a boring, horrible debate. Trump campaign senior adviser Chris LaCivita went further. I think the whole thing was a complete and utter shit show. Period, end quote, he said. Advertisement On this score theyre not wrong: The debate was a mess, punctuated by sloppy, incomprehensible fights and large segments of cross-talk. Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom, in attendance as a surrogate for President Joe Biden, also deployed Lakes analogy, albeit with a bit more generosity, calling it a B-list contest. There was no takeaway of merit. This was a nothingburger. You will forget it, Newsom told reporters. In the next 72 hours, none of you will be talking about this debate. That analysis is backed up by the fact that the two leading alternative candidates, DeSantis and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haleywho had yet another strong debate, even amid the chaosare still sputtering well below 20 percent in the two earliest states. Indeed, the biggest group of supporters to any candidate Wednesday night had gathered at the entrance of the Reagan library with 10-foot MAGA flags to support the one who wasnt even there. This piece originally appeared in the Conversation Flesh-eating bacteria sounds like the premise of a bad horror movie, but its a growingand potentially fatalthreat to people. In September 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a health advisory alerting doctors and public health officials of an increase in flesh-eating bacteria cases that can cause serious wound infections. Im a professor at the Indiana University School of Medicine, where my laboratory studies microbiology and infectious disease. Heres why the CDC is so concerned about this deadly infectionand ways to avoid contracting it. There are several types of bacteria that can infect open wounds and cause a rare condition called necrotizing fasciitis. These bacteria do not merely damage the surface of the skinthey release toxins that destroy the underlying tissue, including muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. Once the bacteria reach the bloodstream, they gain ready access to additional tissues and organ systems. If left untreated, necrotizing fasciitis can be fatal, sometimes within 48 hours. The bacterial species group A Streptococcus, or group A strep, is the most common culprit behind necrotizing fasciitis. But the CDCs latest warning points to an additional suspect, a type of bacteria called Vibrio vulnificus. There are only 150 to 200 cases of Vibrio vulnificus in the U.S. each year, but the mortality rate is high, with 1 in 5 people succumbing to the infection. Advertisement Advertisement Vibrio vulnificus primarily lives in warm seawater, but can also be found in brackish waterareas where the ocean mixes with freshwater. Most infections in the U.S. occur in the warmer months, between May and October. People who swim, fish, or wade in these bodies of water can contract the bacteria through an open wound or sore. Vibrio vulnificus can also get into seafood harvested from these waters, especially shellfish like oysters. Eating such foods raw or undercooked can lead to food poisoning, and handling them while having an open wound can provide an entry point for the bacteria to cause necrotizing fasciitis. In the U.S., Vibrio vulnificus is a leading cause of seafood-associated fatality. Advertisement Vibrio vulnificus is found in warm coastal waters around the world. In the U.S., this includes southern Gulf Coast states. But rising ocean temperatures due to global warming are creating new habitats for this type of bacteria, which can now be found along the East Coast as far north as New York and Connecticut. A recent study noted that Vibrio vulnificus wound infections increased eightfold between 1988 and 2018 in the eastern U.S. Advertisement Climate change is also fueling stronger hurricanes and storm surges, which have been associated with spikes in flesh-eating bacteria infection cases. Aside from increasing water temperatures, the number of people who are most vulnerable to severe infection, including those with diabetes and those taking medications that suppress immunity, is on the rise. Advertisement Advertisement Early symptoms of an infected wound include fever, redness, and intense pain or swelling at the site of injury. If you have these symptoms, seek medical attention without delay. Necrotizing fasciitis can progress quickly, producing ulcers, blisters, skin discoloration, and pus. Related From Slate Theres a Way to Make Screen Time Beneficial for Kids Read More Treating flesh-eating bacteria is a race against time. Clinicians administer antibiotics directly into the bloodstream to kill the bacteria. In many cases, damaged tissue needs to be surgically removed to stop the rapid spread of the infection. This sometimes results in amputation of affected limbs. Advertisement Researchers are concerned that an increasing number of cases are becoming impossible to treat because Vibrio vulnificus has evolved resistance to certain antibiotics. The CDC offers several recommendations to help prevent infection. People who have a fresh cut, including a new piercing or tattoo, are advised to stay out of water that could be home to Vibrio vulnificus. Otherwise, the wound should be completely covered with a waterproof bandage. People with an open wound should also avoid handling raw seafood or fish. Wounds that occur while fishing, preparing seafood, or swimming should be washed immediately and thoroughly with soap and water. Anyone can contract necrotizing fasciitis, but people with weakened immune systems are most susceptible to severe disease. This includes people taking immunosuppressive medications or those who have preexisting conditions such as liver disease, cancer, HIV, or diabetes. It is important to bear in mind that necrotizing fasciitis presently remains very rare. But given its severity, it is beneficial to stay informed. Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society. What is a change management plan? In order to succeed, businesses must constantly evolve. Companies must constantly reassess and readjust what theyre offering to customers, how they carry out key processes, whos responsible for what tasks and how they could be improving. Running a business is a constant game of trial and error, and so companies have got to be nimble and be able to adjust to big changes if they want to survive. Sell Your Business Drive Traffic to Your Website Discover the Zoho Ecosystem Advertise Your Business Here Unfortunately, change isnt always well received. When a business owner decides to bring about a big shift at his or her company, individual stakeholders dont always react with enthusiasm and sometimes, these changes dont work well for the company as a collective. Thats why businesses should always draft a Change Management Plan to help guide staff members and stakeholders through those rocky transition periods. What is a Change Management Plan? Small Business Deals Simply put, a Change Management Plan is a working document that spells out activities or roles that will need additional focus during the execute and control stage of a project or noticeable institutional change. For example, if youre introducing a new middle manager into your workforce, planning to make staff redundancies, or are preparing to add new steps into a manufacturing process, you are going to cause tremors across your companys workforce. By drafting a Change Management Plan, you should be able to measure and mitigate any potential resistance or unintentional drawbacks of implementing said changes. Key Components of a Change Management Plan Reason for Change : Before implementing any change, its crucial to understand and articulate why the change is necessary. This could be driven by factors such as market demands, technological advancements, or internal strategic shifts. : Before implementing any change, its crucial to understand and articulate why the change is necessary. This could be driven by factors such as market demands, technological advancements, or internal strategic shifts. Impact Analysis : This involves assessing the potential impacts the proposed change might have on different areas of the organization. Its essential to foresee any potential challenges or disruptions that might arise as a result of the change. : This involves assessing the potential impacts the proposed change might have on different areas of the organization. Its essential to foresee any potential challenges or disruptions that might arise as a result of the change. Stakeholder Communication : Ensuring all relevant stakeholders, from employees to suppliers, are informed about the changes. This includes why the change is occurring, how it will be implemented, and the expected outcomes. Effective communication can alleviate concerns and reduce resistance. : Ensuring all relevant stakeholders, from employees to suppliers, are informed about the changes. This includes why the change is occurring, how it will be implemented, and the expected outcomes. Effective communication can alleviate concerns and reduce resistance. Training & Support : If the change involves new tools, processes, or behaviors, employees may need training or resources to adapt. This could range from formal training sessions to informational materials or even one-on-one mentoring. : If the change involves new tools, processes, or behaviors, employees may need training or resources to adapt. This could range from formal training sessions to informational materials or even one-on-one mentoring. Feedback Mechanisms: Establishing channels for employees and other stakeholders to provide feedback on the changes. This can be invaluable for making necessary adjustments in real-time and for identifying unforeseen challenges. How To Write a Change Management Plan? Change Management Plans come in two varieties. The first type is designed to measure the impact of an institutional change with a view to ease any necessary transitions. The second type of Change Management Plan is put in place to track progress on particular projects. This type of plan sees change measured against a project baseline which is generally going to be a detailed outline of a projects scope, schedule and its budget. Both types of Change Management Plans have a few basic things in common. First and foremost, all Change Management Plans must start by demonstrating the reasons for a change such as addressing performance gaps, emerging technologies or waning consumer activity. Then, a plan must define the scope of recommended changes. Youll need to outline how youre reacting to issues, which job roles it could affect or any potential policy or organizational changes. After that, you must identify a series of KPIs that can be used to measure progress and success. A Change Management Plan must also provide a description of stakeholder support, and will ideally elect a change management team that will be responsible for maintaining constant communication with stakeholders throughout the implementation period of any given change. This list must include all employees, as well as any partner organizations such as suppliers, contractors or major clients. If you need help writing your first Change Management Plan, there are plenty of templates out there that can help get you started. But at the end of the day, this is a task that all business owners should make a habit of carrying out. Change is good but being able to get everybody on the same page and carry out a major transition can make or break even the best company. Change Management Plan Summary Topic Description Need for Change Businesses must adapt and be flexible to remain successful. Change is essential but can often meet resistance. Change Management Plan (CMP) A strategy that defines activities, roles, and focus areas during significant changes. Helps guide stakeholders through transitions and mitigate potential issues. Purpose of CMP Project-Based: Measures change against a project's baseline (scope, schedule, budget). Institutional: Assesses the impact of organizational change. Components of CMP Justification for change, scope of proposed changes, KPIs for progress, stakeholder support, change management team for communication. Stakeholders Essential to keep everyone informed. Involves all employees and partner organizations such as suppliers, contractors, or major clients. The Congress party on Thursday slammed the AAP government in Punjab over the arrest of Kisan Congress chief and party MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira in a drugs case. The Congress said Khairas arrest from his Chandigarh house in an old case was proof of abuse of power and vengeance and the party stands with him against this conspiracy to suppress his voice against injustice. The Congress slammed the AAP on its official X handle saying, The arrest of All India Kisan Congress Chairman Sukhpal Khaira ji is proof of abuse of power and vengeance. The entire Congress family stands with him against this petty conspiracy to suppress his voice against injustice. We are not ready to bow down, not ready to stop. We will fight and win. Even party Lok Sabha MP Manickam Tagore condemned the arrest of Khaira and said, Condemn the misuse of police force and arrest of AICC Kisan Congress Chairman Sukhpal Khaira. Akali FIR, AAP misusing it... Questions not tolerated by AAP. Unfortunate. Party leader Supriya Shrinate, too, condemned the arrest and dubbed it as revenge and accused the AAP government of attempting to suppress the voice of the Opposition in the state. In a post on X, Shrinate, who is the Chairperson of the Congress Social Media and Digital Platforms said, The arrest of Kisan Congress President Sukhpal Khaira is proof of the politics of revenge of the Punjab Government. This step of the Aam Aadmi Party government is an attempt to suppress the voice of the Opposition. This is completely wrong. We are all with Sukhpal ji. Even Indian Youth Congress (IYC) Chief Srinivas BV slammed the government and in a post on X, saying, The arrest of All India Kisan Congress Chairman Sukhpal Khaira ji is a proof of abuse of power and vengeance. The entire Congress family stands with him against this petty conspiracy to suppress his voice against injustice. Punjab Police has not yet issued any statement over Khairas arrest and the charges against him. Khaira went Live on Facebook where he and the policemen were seen arguing about the raid to arrest him. However, a police officer was seen telling Khaira that a Special Investigating Team had been formed in a Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) case, which has evidence of drugs smuggling against him. At this, Khaira was heard telling the officer that the Supreme Court has already quashed the NDPS case. Later, the police arrested Khaira and took him to Jalalabad in Punjab. The Congress and the AAP have been at loggerheads in Punjab as the grand old party is critical of the state government over several issues. It is worth mentioning that the AAP is also a member of the INDIA bloc of Opposition parties formed to take on the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The FAVR car allowance is a popular way for companies to compensate employees for business-related vehicle expenses. Understanding the key elements of this allowance, such as eligibility criteria and calculation methods, is essential for both employers and employees. This article provides a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know about the FAVR car allowance. Lets get started! What is the Fixed and Variable Rate Car Allowance? The Fixed and Variable Rate (FAVR) car allowance is a method devised to reimburse employees who utilize their personal vehicles for work-related tasks. Sell Your Business Discover the Zoho Ecosystem Drive Traffic to Your Website Advertise Your Business Here This reimbursement strategy involves two components. First, theres a consistent monthly allowance a predetermined amount thats given to employees regardless of how much they drive. This helps cover fixed costs like insurance and depreciation. Second, theres a mileage reimbursement, determined based on the actual distance an employee travels in a given month. By combining these two elements, the FAVR approach aims to provide a more accurate compensation that reflects both the constant costs of owning a vehicle and the variable costs associated with its business use, such as fuel and maintenance. Importantly, the system also considers geographic differences in costs, ensuring that employees in areas with higher living costs arent left short-changed. This two-pronged approach seeks to reduce tax liabilities and more precisely address the genuine expenses employees face. Small Business Deals Understanding Fixed and Variable Payments FAVR programs consist of fixed and variable costs. This section details the differences and examples of each type of cost. Fixed Costs Fixed vehicle ownership costs refer to expenses that are consistent and do not change regardless of the amount of vehicle use. These expenses are factored into the FAVR car allowance calculation to provide employees with a consistent amount of compensation each month. Examples of fixed costs include: Car payments Registration fees Insurance Depreciation Variable Costs Variable costs refer to expenses that change based on the amount of vehicle use. These expenses are factored into the FAVR car allowance calculation and are typically reimbursed based on the number of miles driven. Examples of variable costs include: Gas Maintenance Oil Tires How does FAVR differ from other IRS vehicle programs? When it comes to reimbursing employees for using their cars for work, the IRS offers several methods. The FAVR method is just one of these, and its unique in how its set up and how it operates. Heres how it stands out: FAVR Program vs. Standard Mileage Reimbursement Program The FAVR method has two parts. One is a steady amount every month, helping to cover costs like car payments or insurance that dont change much. The other part changes based on how many miles you drive for work, covering costs like gas and wear on the car. On the other hand, the Standard Mileage Reimbursement just has one fixed rate for every mile driven. This rate is set by the IRS every year, and its meant to cover all your car-related costs in one go. But it doesnt always consider the different costs that come with different cars or different places to live. FAVR Program vs. Car Allowances Car allowances are simpler. If you get a car allowance, you get a set amount of money, no matter how much you drive. Its like getting a flat salary instead of being paid by the hour. But heres the thing: this one-size-fits-all approach can mean some people get more than they need, and others dont get enough. The FAVR method, with its two-part system, tries to be more accurate. It considers the stable costs of having a car, but also the changing costs that come with driving different distances. This way, it aims to match what employees actually spend more closely Comparison of IRS Vehicle Programs For a clearer understanding of how the FAVR car allowance compares to other vehicle programs from the IRS, the following table breaks down the key features of each program. Program Description Reimbursement Method Cost Coverage FAVR Program Reimburses employees for business-related use of personal vehicles. Combines fixed rate for personal costs with a variable rate for business costs. Accurate accounting for both personal and business costs. Standard Mileage Reimbursement Program Reimburses employees for vehicle use based on mileage. Uses the standard mileage rate set by the IRS. Does not account for personal costs; only based on mileage. Car Allowances Provides a set amount to cover vehicle-related expenses for business use. Flat sum given to employees. Set amount might not reflect true costs; doesn't itemize specific costs like fuel or insurance. Benefits of Using the FAVR Car Allowance The FAVR program is an increasingly popular option for businesses looking to provide their staff with the funds necessary to purchase and maintain a car. This arrangement offers a number of benefits, including: Cost Savings: The FAVR car allowance helps employers cut down on costs by eliminating the need to purchase, maintain, and insure company cars. It also gives employees access to more affordable vehicles and fuel costs. The FAVR car allowance helps employers cut down on costs by eliminating the need to purchase, maintain, and insure company cars. It also gives employees access to more affordable vehicles and fuel costs. Flexibility: With a flat monthly rate, the FAVR car allowance gives workers more control over how they use the funds. This helps them select vehicles that meet their needs without being locked into long-term leases or high-interest loans. With a flat monthly rate, the FAVR car allowance gives workers more control over how they use the funds. This helps them select vehicles that meet their needs without being locked into long-term leases or high-interest loans. Tax Benefits: Employers can take advantage of tax deductions related to expenses associated with providing an employee with a car allowance such as fuel expenses or vehicle repairs. Workers can also lower their taxable income depending on their local state and federal laws. Employers can take advantage of tax deductions related to expenses associated with providing an employee with a car allowance such as fuel expenses or vehicle repairs. Workers can also lower their taxable income depending on their local state and federal laws. Reduced Liability: By providing allowances instead of company cars, employers reduce the risk of being held liable for accidents or incidents involving their staffs vehicles. This is especially important for businesses in states with strict liability laws. By providing allowances instead of company cars, employers reduce the risk of being held liable for accidents or incidents involving their staffs vehicles. This is especially important for businesses in states with strict liability laws. Convenience: The FAVR car allowance is easy to set up and manage, meaning less paperwork and administrative tasks for both employers and employees alike. This makes it an attractive option for businesses looking to streamline their vehicle reimbursement process. IRS Guidelines for the FAVR Allowance The IRS has put forth several guidelines and requirements that must be followed when using the FAVR Car Allowance program to file taxes. These include: Qualifications: To qualify for the program, employees must use their vehicle primarily for business purposes and also submit records of their expenses related to car ownership. To qualify for the program, employees must use their vehicle primarily for business purposes and also submit records of their expenses related to car ownership. Restrictions: There are certain restrictions in place, including a limit on the amount of reimbursement given each month and a cap on total yearly reimbursement. There are certain restrictions in place, including a limit on the amount of reimbursement given each month and a cap on total yearly reimbursement. Proof of Purchase: Employees must be able to provide proof that they purchased the vehicle with their own funds before the arrangement was set up in order to be eligible for reimbursement. Employees must be able to provide proof that they purchased the vehicle with their own funds before the arrangement was set up in order to be eligible for reimbursement. Mileage Tracking: Each month, employers must track the number of miles driven for business reasons in order to accurately calculate the amount of reimbursement owed. Each month, employers must track the number of miles driven for business reasons in order to accurately calculate the amount of reimbursement owed. Tax Deduction Limitations: The deduction for using this type of allowance is limited based on various factors such as cost and purpose. How do you calculate a FAVR allowance? Calculating a FAVR Allowance is a process that ensures that employees are reimbursed fairly for their car usage while keeping in line with IRS guidelines. To start, you need to find out how much the employee drives for work during the tax year. Once you have that number, you multiply it by a set rate that the IRS approves. This rate reflects the average costs of operating a vehicle. After getting this product, the next step is to look at the employees total monthly car expenses. This would include things like fuel, maintenance, insurance, and car payments. Subtract the figure you obtained from multiplying from these total expenses. What youre left with is the FAVR allowance. This method ensures that the reimbursement is tailored to the employees actual usage and costs, rather than a flat, one-size-fits-all rate. Is a FAVR car allowance right for your business? When thinking about whether a FAVR car allowance is a good fit, business owners need to weigh a few things. Firstly, how many of your employees are regularly on the move for work? If you have a lot of them, then tracking each of their expenses individually might be cumbersome. Next, think about the overall car-related expenses these employees incur. A FAVR allowance aims to reflect these real-world costs more accurately than a flat car allowance might. Also, theres the administrative side of things setting up a FAVR system might require some initial work and oversight. However, for larger businesses with significant mobile workforces, the benefits often outweigh these challenges. Not only can a FAVR system reduce tax bills by ensuring reimbursements are in line with actual expenses, but it can also lead to genuine long-term savings by avoiding overcompensation. YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Tax Deductions A lawn care business is an excellent way to become an entrepreneur and be your own boss. Homeowners are multitasking more and more and they need these services. Small businesses always want to make a great first impression with a well-manicured lawn. This blog will walk you through everything you need to know about how to start a lawn care business, from equipment selection to initial planning and marketing, plus customer retention. The Basics of a Lawn Care Business The lawn care industry is doing well. In 2021 alone, it grew by 5.3% and outpaced the overall economy. Lawns usually need ongoing maintenance, and cross-selling opportunities like pest control exist. Sell Your Business Drive Traffic to Your Website Discover the Zoho Ecosystem Advertise Your Business Here What is a Lawn Care Business? A lawn care business does several things, like regular grass cutting. Other services include control and fertilization plus pest and disease control, to name a few. The potential clients include residential homeowners and commercial properties. Recreational facilities, schools, and hospitals can also be clients. Why Lawn Care Services Are Essential Lawn care services play a pivotal role in enhancing outdoor spaces aesthetic appeal and health. A well-maintained lawn not only boosts the overall visual appeal of a property but also provides various environmental and health benefits. Lawns act as natural filters, capturing dust, smoke particles, and other pollutants to provide cleaner air. Additionally, they help prevent soil erosion, reduce noise pollution, and even increase a propertys value. Engaging in regular lawn care ensures that these green spaces remain vibrant, healthy, and beneficial for both the environment and the residents of the property. Aesthetic Appeal: A well-maintained lawn beautifies the surroundings and creates a pleasant outdoor environment. A well-maintained lawn beautifies the surroundings and creates a pleasant outdoor environment. Environmental Benefits: Lawns act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, thereby supporting cleaner air. Lawns act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, thereby supporting cleaner air. Soil Protection: Healthy grass roots hold the soil together, preventing erosion and runoff, especially during heavy rains. Healthy grass roots hold the soil together, preventing erosion and runoff, especially during heavy rains. Noise Reduction: Lawns can significantly reduce noise pollution by absorbing and deflecting sounds. Lawns can significantly reduce noise pollution by absorbing and deflecting sounds. Property Value: A beautifully maintained lawn can increase a propertys market value and curb appeal. A beautifully maintained lawn can increase a propertys market value and curb appeal. Recreation and Well-being: Green, well-kept lawns provide spaces for recreational activities and have been shown to reduce stress and promote well-being. Green, well-kept lawns provide spaces for recreational activities and have been shown to reduce stress and promote well-being. Temperature Regulation: Lawns can act as natural coolants, reducing the surrounding temperature and minimizing the heat island effect in urban areas. Lawns can act as natural coolants, reducing the surrounding temperature and minimizing the heat island effect in urban areas. Habitat for Wildlife: Healthy lawns can provide habitats for various small creatures and support local biodiversity. Steps to Launch Your Own Lawn Care Business Following are the steps for how to start a business and offer lawn care services to your community. Small Business Deals Evaluating Your Market: Commercial vs. Residential Lawn Care You need to know the differences between serving residential and commercial clients. Residential properties are usually smaller. They are simpler to look after. Commercial clients need more services, including an irrigation system and more frequent visits. The contracts are different, too. Residential clients might only want seasonal or one-time services. Commercial clients are looking for more long-term agreements. Drafting a Business Plan A business plan offers financial projections and background information. These can help you define your objectives and attract investors like banks and potential partners. Components include: The executive summary. The business description. Marketing strategy and analysis The services and products. A competitive analysis Financial projections. Business plans can help you get funding and create a marketing roadmap. Choosing a Business Structure You have several common business structures to choose from. The sole proprietor is easy to set up and you have full control over the business. Personal liability is one of the downsides. A partnership has more potential for resources. It can be difficult to transfer ownership with these. A limited liability company has a flexible management structure and pass-through taxation. However, having a few members means tax complications. A Corporation has strong liability protections in place. The con here is complex regulations and legal requirements. Securing Financing Heres a list of some of the financing options available. Bootstrapping Bootstrapping can entail contributions from family and personal savings used to start a business. Venture Capital These companies invest in startups with good potential and ask for equity in exchange. You get access to investors with experience. Bank Loans These usually have strict credit criteria. Small Business Administration Loans These government-backed loans have longer repayment times. Crowdfunding Kickstarter is an example. This is a way to raise funds from a large group of people. Managing the campaigns takes time. Designing an Effective Lawn Care Website Websites are a cost-effective way to get global exposure. A carefully designed site is available 24/7. An effective website has good branding that uses consistent messaging logos. Research the top landscaping business name ideas and select one that suits your offerings. Then, purchase a domain to match. The user-friendly design should be good for tablets, mobile devices, and desktops. Ensure its optimized for SEO, and follow this website startup guide for other tips. Creating a Unique Brand Identity for Your Lawn Care Company Good branding for your company increases exposure. A good logo is simple and clean. Establish clear guidelines on consistency as to where and how it gets used. Colors make a big difference. They need to meet accessibility standards. Using at least one primary color in the logo for any lawn care business is a good idea. Include a mission statement as the driving force behind your branding. It should be concise and clear. Securing Essential Lawn Care Equipment Of course, you need landscaping tools and equipment to get started. A Lawn Mower and Other Tools Smaller lawns only need a walk-behind lawn mower unit. Bigger commercial properties might require a riding mower. Keeping lawns in good shape means having professional edgers and trimmers. A good blower will clean up debris like leaves and grass clippings. Working with bushes and trees means getting a pair of pruning shears. Dont forget personal safety equipment like glasses and gloves and ear protection. Buying Or Renting Lawn care companies must decide whether buying or renting is the best choice. Buying the equipment means youll have it whenever you need it. However, there is a significant investment at first. Renting usually has maintenance included. However, there are no assets to sell later on. Factor Buying Equipment Renting Equipment Initial Cost High upfront costs to purchase machinery and tools outright. Lower initial costs, only paying for the duration of use. Maintenance & Repairs Owner is responsible for all maintenance and repair costs. Maintenance and repairs typically covered by the rental company. Depreciation Equipment will depreciate in value over time. No concerns about depreciation as equipment is returned after use. Flexibility Equipment is available at any time for business operations. Flexibility to rent specific tools as needed for specialized jobs. Long-term Costs Might be cheaper in the long run if equipment is used regularly and maintained well. Can become expensive if renting frequently or for extended periods. Storage Need dedicated space to store equipment when not in use. No storage concerns, as equipment is returned after use. Equipment Updates Updating or upgrading requires selling old equipment and purchasing new. Easier to access the latest equipment models as needed. Asset Ownership Equipment becomes a business asset and can be sold later. No ownership; therefore, no asset to sell or leverage in the future. Tax Implications Potential tax benefits from depreciation or capital write-offs. Renting expenses can be written off as a business expense. Cash Flow Impact Significant initial expenditure can impact cash flow. Spread out costs can be easier on cash flow, especially for startups. Pricing and Service Packages Good lawn care businesses offer basic, standard, and premium packages that give customers a choice. Legal and Licensing Considerations Consider the following: A Business License allows you to operate in your city or county. A Landscaper Contractor License may be required if you plan on doing landscaping work. Some areas will need a Water Use Permit. General Liability Insurance covers your business in the event of property damage or personal injury. There can be other requirements too, depending on the scope of your business. Hiring and Training Consider hiring extra staff during peak demand seasons in the spring and summer. Be sure to train them in proper safety procedures for equipment. Social media and industry-specific websites are good recruitment channels to start with. Developing a Service Menu A service list might look like this. Lawn Mowing and Fertilization Weed Control Insect and Pest Control Lawn Aeration For each of these and others, you should highlight the convenience of the service and your expertise. Explain the benefits of other features like flower bed maintenance and mulching. Service Description Frequency Average Duration Price Range* Lawn Mowing Cutting grass to a specified height. Often includes trimming edges near walkways, driveways, and other structures. Weekly/Bi-weekly 30 min - 2 hrs $30 - $100 Fertilization Applying fertilizers to promote healthy grass growth and prevent weeds. Seasonally 30 min - 1 hr $40 - $100 Weed Control Using herbicides or manual methods to reduce or eliminate weeds from the lawn. As needed 30 min - 2 hrs $50 - $150 Aeration Puncturing the soil with small holes to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate to the grassroots. Annually 1 - 3 hrs $70 - $200 Dethatching Removing thick layer of roots, stems, and debris that can build up on a lawn's surface. Annually/As needed 1 - 3 hrs $100 - $300 Pest Control Applying treatments to deter or eradicate common lawn pests like grubs, ants, and more. As needed 30 min - 2 hrs $50 - $150 Overseeding Planting grass seeds directly into existing turf to improve density or introduce a new grass variety. Seasonally/As needed 1 - 2 hrs $100 - $300 Landscaping & Design Planning and creating aesthetic features, including planting beds, walkways, water features, etc. One-time Varies greatly $500+ Leaf Removal Clearing leaves from the lawn during the fall season or as needed. Seasonally 1 - 3 hrs $50 - $200 Irrigation Maintenance Checking and maintaining sprinkler systems to ensure proper water distribution. Annually/As needed 1 - 2 hrs $70 - $200 Obtaining Licenses and Permits Licenses and permits can vary depending on the state youre in. There are some general ones you should look into like: A Business License This allows you to operate in a legal manner in your jurisdiction. Sales Tax Permit You might need one to remit and collect sales tax. Zoning Permits Your business needs to comply with local zoning requirements. Look into Lawn Care Business Insurance Several categories are under the small business insurance banner, like general liability insurance. This covers your business from third-party claims of damage and bodily injury. If you hire employees, lawn care businesses need Workmens Compensation insurance. Property insurance is important to protect your inventory and equipment. Building a Client Contract Make sure to add in the contract details, like additional charges for special services and the frequency of visits. Be specific about the services, like weed control and mowing. Implementing a Booking and Scheduling System A digital system streamlines appointments and provides real-time updates. Formulating an Environmentally Friendly Approach Remember, environmentally conscious clients are looking for sustainable practices. Reduce the need for chemical treatments and water consumption. Networking and Building Industry Relationships Establishing local connections builds trust. Gaining knowledge from others in the industry helps you to stay updated. Safety Protocols and Equipment Maintenance Detailed records of equipment inspections, repairs, and maintenance are important. Regular safety meetings to review procedures are critical. Setting Up a Business Bank Account Separate personal and business finances for tax purposes. Supply an employee identification number (EIN) for the IRS. Effective Marketing for Your Lawn Care Business So what is marketing for a lawn care service? Effective strategies include both online and offline elements. For example: Advertise in local newspapers. Network at business events. Create a professional website showcasing your services. Google ads and Facebook ads work, too. Building a Loyal Clientele Retaining clients is about effective communication and consistent quality service. Offer seasonal maintenance plans and loyalty programs. Continuous Learning and Upgrading Staying on top of industry trends will help your company to grow. Youll learn about environmental regulations as well as new techniques and equipment. Consider joining a professional organization. How Much Does it Cost to Start a Lawn Care Business? Generally, a start-up costs between $1,450 and $2,500. A basic mower goes from $200 to $400. Hand tools like a shovel and rake cost up to $400. Marketing can set you back anywhere from $200-$500 for ads and flyers. Other costs include business licensing or registration and your vehicle. What is the Profit Margin for a Successful Lawn Care Business? A one-man operation can have profit margins of around 15 to 20%. The higher overhead costs and additional labor mean bigger businesses have a lower margin of around 10 to 12%. What Challenges May a Lawn Care Business Owner Face? A lawn care company operates in an industry that might seem straightforward on the surface but can be fraught with numerous challenges, including the following: Unpredictable Weather Patterns: Weather affects grass growth pest activity and can delay scheduled jobs. Weather affects grass growth pest activity and can delay scheduled jobs. Increased Competition: A surge in new startups and other competitors can make it challenging to secure clients and differentiate services. A surge in new startups and other competitors can make it challenging to secure clients and differentiate services. Fluctuating Fuel Prices: Any rise in fuel costs directly influences the operating costs, especially for companies with heavy machinery and transportation requirements. Any rise in fuel costs directly influences the operating costs, especially for companies with heavy machinery and transportation requirements. Labor Issues: Recruiting, training, and retaining skilled workers can be challenging due to the physical nature of the job and its seasonality. Recruiting, training, and retaining skilled workers can be challenging due to the physical nature of the job and its seasonality. Staying Updated: Keeping up with the latest in landscaping techniques, eco-friendly practices, and local regulations requires continuous learning and adaptation. Tips from Lawn Care Professionals: Ensuring Success in Your Business Heres some advice gathered from budding entrepreneurs. Stay updated on different regulations and best practices. Get the information you need from industry publications and conferences. Be willing to adjust your business strategy as the market changes. FAQ: Starting a Lawn Mowing Business Is a Lawn Care Service a Good Business to Start? Yes, starting a landscaping business can provide access to steady income. And you can gradually scale up. Is Lawn Mowing Business a Good Side Hustle? This is a good side hustle because there are low start-up costs. Use the post above as a business startup checklist. Is it Essential to Have a Background in Horticulture to be a Lawn Care Professional? Its not an essential qualification but this expertise gives you in-depth knowledge of soils and landscaping. Which State has the Longest Lawn Mowing Season? Florida has the longest mowing season. It can extend through most of the year. How can Seasonal Downtimes be handled in the Lawn Care industry? Adding on off-season services like snow removal or holiday light installation can help. You might also look into other types of businesses with a year-round model. For example, research how to start a handyman business. Cover Story The Fintech Industry in India has witnessed remarkable growth and innovation in recent years, reshaping the countrys financial landscape. These digital-first banks, unburdened by traditional brick-and-mortar structures, have swiftly captured the imagination of tech-savvy consumers. The industry, focused on seamless user experiences, offers a wide range of services beyond traditional banking, leveraging data analytics and AI to personalize financial solutions, making them more relevant and accessible to customers. Moreover, partnerships with fintech startups and established financial institutions have become increasingly common, expanding their product portfolios. Plenty of events to enjoy in Bratislava during the weekend, two lovely alpacas, and interview with Slovakia's deputy foreign minister Peter Misik. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share Good evening. Here is the Thursday, September 28 edition of Today in Slovakia - the main news of the day in less than five minutes. Four injured, one dead in Dubravka shooting A man, 32, started shooting at people in one of Bratislava boroughs on the night of September 28, 2023. (Source: TASR) On Fedakova Street in Bratislava's Dubravka borough, near the Saratov shopping mall, a man started randomly shooting at people from the window of a block of flats on Wednesday night. Residents also heard an explosion. The perpetrator, 32, was known for setting off pyrotechnics in the area in recent months. Three civilians as well as a police officer were injured in the shooting. The shooter succumbed to his injuries after a police officer shot him dead. The police are currently investigating the circumstances and the causes of the incident. Police chief Stefan Hamran has said that the attacker had a clean criminal record. In the past, the police only dealt with him for an offence related to the use of pyrotechnics. The perpetrator worked in the IT field and lived in his parents' flat. His mother is said to be ill and his father was often on business trips, the Sme daily wrote. In the flat, the police discovered five guns belonging to his father. For now, the police consider the shooting to be a rash action. Complaints: Neighbours alerted the police about the problematic behaviour of the attacker several times. They filed nine criminal reports. Hamran confirmed that the police received criminal reports, but no one identified a specific person until August. More stories from The Slovak Spectator website Police: Foreigners' Police has extended their special-mode operation for another week. Foreigners' Police has extended their special-mode operation for another week. Ukraine: Slovakia would benefit from Ukraine's accession to the EU, but enlargement must happen simultaneously with the reform of the Union and must be prepared on both sides so that it turns out to be a success story as opposed to a disappointment, says Slovakia's deputy MFA Peter Misik. Slovakia would benefit from Ukraine's accession to the EU, but enlargement must happen simultaneously with the reform of the Union and must be prepared on both sides so that it turns out to be a success story as opposed to a disappointment, says Slovakia's deputy MFA Peter Misik. Travel: In central Slovakia, a small romantic lake can be found. Austrian pensioners have already found it. In central Slovakia, a small romantic lake can be found. Austrian pensioners have already found it. Good news: This week's brief overview includes truly unusual celebrities. If you like what we are doing and want to support good journalism, buy our online subscription with no ads and a print copy of The Slovak Spectator sent to your home in Slovakia. Thank you. FEATURE STORY FOR THURSDAY White Night Space is the place. (Source: Courtesy of Biela Noc) The multi-genre festival White Night will transform Bratislava'sstreets again into a magical night walk during the upcoming weekend. Art works, installations and performances by Slovak and foreign artists will be presented within more than 50 sites and events scattered around the city centre. We'll tell you what you should definitely see. Bonus: Here are 3 things to do in Bratislava for free. EVENT FOR FRIDAY Something for little researchers European Researchers' Night is an annually organised event throughout Europe, including Slovakia. Events will be held throughout Friday, September 29, in Bratislava, Kosice, Zilina, Poprad and Banska Bystrica. Here's what it felt like to take part in the event in 2022: video //www.youtube.com/embed/Dg7UzFtRmL4 In other news In Slovakia, the share of households that cannot afford to maintain an adequate temperature in the home has increased. It is one of the most obvious indicators of energy poverty, according to the Institute for Strategies and Analyses. It is one of the most obvious indicators of energy poverty, according to the Institute for Strategies and Analyses. If next year's state budget were to be balanced, the economy would collapse by almost 6.5 percent, wages would drop by 4 percent, and the unemployed would increase by 130,000 people, according to the macroeconomic forecasts of the Finance Ministry. wages would drop by 4 percent, and the unemployed would increase by 130,000 people, according to the macroeconomic forecasts of the Finance Ministry. Sewage and oil flowed from five Slovak ships straight into the Danube , said the Slovak Environment Inspectorate. , said the Slovak Environment Inspectorate. The election campaign in Slovakia has ended. A moratorium has been in effect since midnight. During it, no activity in favour or against political parties, movements and coalitions is allowed. The moratorium lasts until the end of voting on election day, September 30. WEATHER FOR FRIDAY: No bad news, just clear skies and hot weather. (SHMU) Thank you for subscribing and reading. It means a lot to us. P.S. If you have suggestions on how our news overview can be improved, you can reach us at editorial@spectator.sk. Follow The Slovak Spectator on Facebook, Instagram (@slovakspectator) and Twitter (@slovakspectator). https://sputnikglobe.com/20230927/sweeping-surveillance-censorship-site-hosting-russell-brand-has-uncertain-future-in-uk-1113751814.html Sweeping Surveillance, Censorship: Site Hosting Russell Brand Has Uncertain Future in UK Sweeping Surveillance, Censorship: Site Hosting Russell Brand Has Uncertain Future in UK Rumble, an online video hosting platform featuring content from Russell Brand and other prominent commentators, may be blocked or forced to cease operations in the United Kingdom. 2023-09-27T23:04+0000 2023-09-27T23:04+0000 2023-09-27T23:01+0000 world russell brand united kingdom (uk) donald trump jeremy corbyn canada ofcom the times facebook /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/1b/1113751657_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_37cdd8b99047a8561599b392de5c8613.jpg Rumble, an online video hosting platform featuring content from Russell Brand and other prominent commentators, may be blocked or forced to cease operations in the United Kingdom. Thats according to analysts responding to recent tensions between the Canadian company and the countrys Conservative-led government.The comments were published Monday in British newspaper The Times, and come amidst requests to various social media companies to demonetize Brands content by Dame Caroline Dineage, the chair of the UK governments culture, media and sport committee. A new bill set to become law soon would also give the governments television regulator Ofcom substantial new powers to control online content there.The Canadian-headquartered social media platform had previously voiced their opposition to requests to prevent Brand from receiving income from the site, calling them extremely disturbing.Rumble is already unavailable in neighboring France after the company refused to agree to the countrys demands to remove accounts for Russian state media, including Sputnik. French internet service providers have blocked the site there since November 2022.The bill also stipulates regulation of a new category of material that, while legal, is considered harmful, a concept recently dubbed by X platform CEO Linda Yaccarino as moderation of lawful but awful content. Finally, the law would force platforms to make efforts to prevent minors from viewing certain material.The law enforces criminal liability for senior managers of large online platforms, meaning executives of Rumble or other companies could be arrested for noncompliance if they visit the United Kingdom.Brand has denied the claims and has yet to be charged with any criminal offenses. A critic of mainstream media and the UK government, hes also condemned the new Online Safety Bill as a piece of UK legislation that grants sweeping surveillance and censorship powers.The comedian formerly identified himself as a socialist and supporter of former UK Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn, although hes interviewed figures from across the political spectrum as part of his online podcasts. Controversy surrounding the media figure prompted the late English political and cultural theorist Mark Fisher to write an influential essay about online political culture in 2013.Rumble, a video sharing website known for promoting free speech, is sometimes criticized for controversial content although its terms and conditions forbid racism and antisemitism. The company also owns the Locals crowdfunding platform and the podcasting site CallIn.Online content regulation and the phenomenon of fake news have been prominent concerns in Western politics since the election of former US President Donald Trump and the UKs vote to leave the European Union in 2016. Polling shows only 34% of Americans have trust in the countrys mass media institutions.*Meta is banned in Russia as an extremist organization https://sputnikglobe.com/20221104/france-demands-rumble-block-russian-news-channels-1103695858.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230920/youtube-blocks-russell-brand-from-ad-revenues-amid-sexual-assault-claims-1113511805.html united kingdom (uk) canada 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 rumble, russell brand, uncertain future for rumble, uk government, https://sputnikglobe.com/20230927/us-house-rejects-series-of-measures-to-ban-ukraine-aid-in-defense-bill-1113752043.html US House Rejects Series of Measures to Ban Ukraine Aid in Defense Bill US House Rejects Series of Measures to Ban Ukraine Aid in Defense Bill The House of Representatives rejected a series of measures to ban additional US assistance to Ukraine in the defense appropriations bill. 2023-09-27T23:58+0000 2023-09-27T23:58+0000 2023-09-29T17:40+0000 americas us house of representatives matt gaetz ukraine pentagon andy biggs government shutdown financial aid us us government shutdown /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 House on Wednesday shot down Republican Congressman Matt Gaetzs amendment to bar any security assistance to Ukraine in a 93-339 vote. The House also just rejected an amendment from Republican Congressman Andy Biggs to strip out $300 million for the Pentagon to arm Ukraine. Although there's a big bipartisan showing for Ukraine funding, nearly half of Republicans favor cutting assistance. Moreover, the House in a 160-269 vote rejected a bipartisan amendment to the defense bill to bar the transfer of cluster munitions. The inclusion of funds for Ukraine in the Pentagon's draft budget has met with opposition from conservative Republicans, who insist that lawmakers cannot vote on aid to Kiev and funding for the US military at the same time. Earlier, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Kevin McCarthy, wanted to remove from the draft Pentagon budget the sum of $300 million, which is planned to be spent on training the Ukrainian Armed Forces.The inclusion of funds earmarked for Kiev in the country's defense budget is drawing strong opposition from several members of the House of Representatives and is becoming a stumbling block to its passage. Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene pledged this week to vote against passing a short-term or full budget as long as it includes funding for Ukraine.Congress must pass a short-term spending bill by the end of the month to avert a government shutdown.Moscow has repeatedly said that Western military aid does not bode well for Ukraine and only prolongs the conflict, while shipments of weapons become a legitimate target for the Russian army. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230926/us-senate-advances-short-term-spending-bill-to-avert-looming-government-shutdown-1113706462.html americas 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 house of representatives, us assistance to ukraine, defense appropriations bill, us house, https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/armenias-pashinyan-sold-out-nagorno-karabakh-to-us-interests-1113767192.html Armenia's Pashinyan Sold Out Nagorno-Karabakh to 'US Interests' Armenia's Pashinyan Sold Out Nagorno-Karabakh to 'US Interests' Armenias PM Nikol Pashinyan sold out Nagorno-Karabakh, doing 'dirty work for US, like Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky, pundits told Sputnik. 2023-09-28T17:11+0000 2023-09-28T17:11+0000 2023-09-28T17:11+0000 analysis armenia azerbaijan nagorno-karabakh nagorno-karabakh conflict nikol pashinyan us agency for international development (usaid) alfred de zayas volodymyr zelensky /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/1c/1113771002_0:161:3071:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_4f53bc51f00016908424573da98ecbc4.jpg Armenias Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan "has been doing the dirty work for the US, as [Volodymyr] Zelensky is doing in Ukraine. It is all geopolitics, Professor Alfred de Zayas, former UN independent expert on international order, told Sputnik.Nikol Pashinyan has a track record of foreign and domestic policy errors, the pundit said.The end of Nagorno-Karabakh is much more than specifically a foreign policy failure of Armenias Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Alexander Konkov, associate professor at the Department of Political Analysis at Lomonosov Moscow State University, agreed. It is a testimony to the collapse of the general model of pro-Western policy in the Caucasus, at minimum.The Russian professor was alluding to the Western-backed Georgian government's invasion of the breakaway region of South Ossetia in 2008 that unfolded after former Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili, who came to power following a color revolution coup, voicing his intent to regain control of the territory. Russia, protecting residents of South Ossetia, many of whom had Russian citizenship, sent troops into the republic and ousted the Georgian military from the region. On August 26, 2008, Russia recognized the sovereignty of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.Professor de Zayas noted that the United Nations had "failed the Armenians and the world by not taking preventative measures to protect the Armenian population."Failed Goal to 'Undermine Russia'Washingtons approach with respect to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has been to create problems at Russia's borders, asserted Professor Alfred de Zayas. During the latest flare-up of Karabakh tensions, senior US officials, including the chief of the US Agency for International Development (USAID), Samantha Power, and Yuri Kim, acting assistant secretary of state for Europe and Eurasian affairs, were quick to converge on Armenia's capital Yerevan. The visit on September 25 sought to affirm US support for Armenias sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and democracy, and to address humanitarian needs stemming from the recent violence in Nagorno-Karabakh, as per a US Embassy post. Pundits analyzing the evolving dynamics in the region were quick to drawn parallels with past US interventions.Weighing the role of the West in the Nagorno-Karabakh crisis, Alexander Konkov surmised that specifically the United States had its sights set on a specific goal: to oust Russia from the region. Now, the US authorities are seeking to blame the developments not on Yerevan itself, but on Russia, Konkov pointed out.It should be noted that when Azerbaijan began its operation in Nagorno-Karabakh on September 19, the Kremlin emphasized that they were de jure taking place on its territory. In late May of this year, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan declared that Yerevan was ready to recognize Azerbaijan's sovereignty within its Soviet-era borders, including Karabakh. This prompted Russian President Vladimir Putin to note in September, 2023 that the Armenian leadership, for all intents and purposes, had essentially recognized Azerbaijan's sovereignty over Nagorno-Karabakh. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev also openly stated that the question of Karabakh's status was no longer an issue, Vladimir Putin noted at the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) in Vladivostok.Subverting Governments by Soft PowerWeighing in on the presence of USAID officials in Yerevan, Alexander Konkov underscored that this was "an American structure that promotes America's humanitarian and political interests around the world. In reality, NGOs they support are geared to cultivate loyalty to American values. Presence of USAID "will not do anything good for the people of Armenia," warned Professor de Zayas. Pointing out that the United States has been undermining Armenia at length, Professor Alfred de Zayas asserted that USAID was yet another tool it was employing to serve its interests.The pundit pointed to the slew of programs and projects that USAID has in the region, warning that they have already helped finance new Armenian biolabs as in Ukraine.Documents uncovered during Moscow's special operation in Ukraine have revealed that the US was deploying an extensive biological research program there, spending more than $200 million on 46 biological laboratories researching highly dangerous pathogens. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230808/2008-south-ossetia-crisis-first-prelude-to-nato-russia-proxy-war-1112464203.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/nagorno-karabakh-announces-cessation-of-existence-of-unrecognized-republic---statement-1113757459.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230920/nagorno-karabakh-hostilities-may-re-flame-as-force-cannot-solve-such-conflicts-1113519605.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230819/us-seeks-license-to-encircle-russia-china-with-offensive-strategic-bio-labs-1112721451.html armenia azerbaijan nagorno-karabakh 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 nagorno-karabakh, unrecognized republic of nagorno-karabakh, republic of nagorno-karabakh will cease to exist, https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/canada-house-speaker-resigns-after-nazi-debacle-us-attacked-nord-stream-to-weaken-germany-1113757076.html Canada House Speaker Resigns After Nazi Debacle; US Attacked Nord Stream to Weaken Germany Canada House Speaker Resigns After Nazi Debacle; US Attacked Nord Stream to Weaken Germany The speaker of the House in the Canadian Parliament has resigned after a ghastly debacle involving unanimous political support for a WW2 Nazi. 2023-09-28T04:05+0000 2023-09-28T04:05+0000 2023-09-28T14:26+0000 the critical hour radio ukraine canada iran crimea us africa command (africom) nato volodymyr zelensky /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/1c/1113756903_0:0:1920:1080_1920x0_80_0_0_bd6845b9ab31f8e64db13fb35fe8d8c8.png Canada House Speaker Resigns After Nazi Debacle; US Attacked Nord Stream to Weaken Germany The speaker of the House in the Canadian Parliament has resigned after a ghastly debacle involving unanimous political support for a WW2 Nazi. Jim Kavanagh, political analyst and writer for Jim Kavanagh's Substack, thepolemicist.net, and Counterpunch, joins us to discuss domestic policy. The speaker of the House in the Canadian Parliament has resigned after a ghastly debacle involving unanimous political support for a WW2 Nazi. Jim Kavanagh says that the Canadian speaker of Parliament said that the fight against Russia continues the battle that the Nazis SS soldiers carried out during WW2. The West is celebrating the Nazi collaboration history.Brian Berletic, ex-US Marine, independent geopolitical researcher and writer based in Bangkok, Thailand, joins us to discuss foreign policy. NATO nations were instrumental players in the latest attack on Crimea. Brian Berletic says that Ukraine does not have intelligence-gathering capabilities and depends on the West for such things, making the US participants. He believes the leaders in the West are trying to goad Russia into committing a strategic error, but it will not work.Dr. Nicolai Petro, Professor of Political Science at the University of Rhode Island, joins us to discuss Ukraine and Russia. The Senate has announced that a stopgap measure will include 6.2 billion dollars for Ukraine. Dr. Petro says it is challenging to keep track of the actual figures because the designated funds are spread out over various periods. He says the West and Ukraine pay for 70 percent of the Ukrainian government, which is a failed state. However, the US government is not responsive to the people, so it will likely remain the same policy.EJ Magnier, veteran Middle East War correspondent, joins us to discuss the new world order. The president of Ukraine is losing his luster as the tide of public opinion has turned against the war in the West. Elijah Magnier says that Zelensky was received as a hero when the Democrats ran the Congress, but the attitude now changes. He also says the EU economy is crippled as the Russian economy grows.Laith Marouf, broadcaster and journalist based in Beirut, Lebanon, joins us to discuss the Middle East. Biden's Middle East policy is a disaster. Laith Marouf says that the American empire is collapsing and must give more power to its regional vassals. Also, the United States and its alliance can't keep up with Russia, Iran, and China in military production, which means that it can no longer guarantee the security of its puppet leaders.Dan Lazare, investigative journalist and author of "America's Undeclared War', joins us to discuss NATO. Jeffrey Sachs argues that NATO expansion and American arrogance are responsible for Ukraine's destruction. Dan Lazare says that you can't sweep the truth under the rug. He argues that Neo Nazis forces led the 2014 coup in Ukraine, and the media buried the "Nazi influence in Ukraine" story after the special military operation started. He says that the pro-war camp is crumbling.KJ Noh, writer, teacher, and activist, joins us to discuss Asia. North Korea has expelled the US soldier who wandered across the border. KJ Noh says this issue was a minor distraction for the DPRK government. He saw how the soldier returned to the nation when he was escorted out. Also, he sees that the Philippines is involved in another escalation as several countries are arguing over the Scarborough Shoals.Obi Egbuna, activist and US Representative for The Zimbabwean Newspapers, joins us to discuss Africa. A Molotov cocktail was thrown at the Cuban embassy in Washington, DC. Obi Egbuna says that Miami comes to Washington as right-wing Cubans have brought terrorism to our region. He says the law enforcement personnel seem to have looked the other way. He says that Africa is fighting back and refusing to be controlled by US imperialism and will not be policed by its colonizers.The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Sputnik.We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.comCatch us at 105.5FM, 104.7FM, 102.9FM, 1390AM, 1140AM ukraine canada iran crimea russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Garland Nixon https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/13/1082125302_0:0:239:239_100x100_80_0_0_d5d43c970b0740f228597fbcdb4ffd66.jpg Garland Nixon https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/13/1082125302_0:0:239:239_100x100_80_0_0_d5d43c970b0740f228597fbcdb4ffd66.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Garland Nixon https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/13/1082125302_0:0:239:239_100x100_80_0_0_d5d43c970b0740f228597fbcdb4ffd66.jpg the critical hour, canadian parliament, support for a ww2 nazi, nato expansion https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/donald-duck--ukraines-blank-check-takeaways-from-gops-second-primary-debate-1113754423.html 'Donald Duck' & Ukraine's 'Blank Check': Takeaways From GOP's Second Primary Debate 'Donald Duck' & Ukraine's 'Blank Check': Takeaways From GOP's Second Primary Debate The Republican Party's second 2024 presidential primary debate saw participants weigh in on topics ranging from illegal immigration, an absent former US president and continued Ukraine, among other talking points. 2023-09-28T05:17+0000 2023-09-28T05:17+0000 2023-09-28T05:23+0000 sputnik explains us donald trump joe biden ron desantis ukraine china michigan uaw gop /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/1c/1113755207_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_8340bb35845bb595b8820cf8664ba9cb.jpg The Republican Party's second 2024 presidential primary debate was held late Wednesday, and saw participants weigh in on topics ranging from illegal immigration, an absent former US president, continued US aid to Ukraine and the presidential spotlight recently placed on the United Auto Workers' strike.The latest debate took place at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, and included a total of seven participants: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, former Vice President Mike Pence, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum.The next GOP debate will take place in Miami, Florida, on November 8.Knives Out for Trumpunlike the initial event, its follow-up saw candidates step up their attacks against the uncontested GOP frontrunner, former US President Donald Trump.Where the first debate saw Republican contenders make an effort to steer away from mentioning Trump, the second iteration of the talks caught candidates taking the former commander-in-chief to task.While taking a dig at US President Joe Biden, DeSantis also remarked that Trump was "missing in action."Businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, who earlier proclaimed that Trump was the "best president of the 21st century," joined in on the dragging campaign as well, albeit less forcefully. Ramaswamy remarked the "America First" agenda needed to be taken to the "next level."Elsewhere, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who was once close to the Trump administration and has since turned his back on the former president, went so far as to refer to Trump as "Donald Duck."DeSantis' No 'Blank Check' for Ukraine & 'Hard Approach' on ChinaFlorida's Ron DeSantis vowed during the second round of the Republican debates that there would be no "blank check" for Ukraine if he becomes the next US president, taking the opportunity to also promise an end to the ongoing Ukraine conflict."Its in our interest to end this war [in Ukraine]. Thats what I will do as president. We are not going to have a blank check. We will not have US troops [in Ukraine]. We're gonna make the Europeans do what they need to do," DeSantis said on Wednesday night.DeSantis further remarked that the task of protecting the United States from waves of uncontrolled immigration on the US-Mexico border as more important than helping Ukraine.Earlier in September, US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters that there is no such thing as a "blank check" for Ukraine given that all US assistance for Kiev is done in consultation with Congress.DeSantis' comments on the topic come amid growing backlash from hardline Republicans looking to cease endless Ukraine aid so funds can be turned toward solving domestic issues.The Florida governor also used his time at the podium to vow a "hard power" approach against China, all while voicing his concerns regarding China's partnerships with Latin America.DeSantis noted the United States relies on China for a whole host of issues and must decouple its important industries. "The reason were in this mess is that elites in DC for far too long have chosen surrender over strength," he claimed.Biden has made moves to shift the US supply chain away from China, however, the US administration has rejected claims of intentionally decoupling the two economies. US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimond earlier emphasized during bilateral talks that the US was not looking to cut Sino-US business ties, but that companies were viewing China as "uninvestable."Biden Slammed for Joining UAW StrikeRepublican candidates also took aim and slammed Biden for joining the UAW strike, blaming his administration's economic policies as the real reason for the strike. "Joe Biden should not be on the picket line. He should be on the southern border working to close our southern border because it is unsafe, wide open and insecure," Scott said during the debate. Commenting on the ongoing strike, Ramaswamy called upon protesters to come to Washington, DC, and organize a picket in front of the White House because "that's really where the protests need to be." Pence, who spent the majority of the debate setting his sights against Ramaswamy, said Biden "doesn't belong on a picket line, he belongs on the unemployment line." The former US vice president added that Bidenomics has failed, and that Bidens green agenda is good for China and bad for workers in Detroit, Michigan.North Dakota governor Doug Burgum stated the UAW strike was rooted in Bidens interference with capital markets. "People in Washington are shutting down the American dream with their reckless behavior. They borrowed, they printed, they spent, and now you're paying more for everything," DeSantis said. Tackling Mass ShootingsShifting gears to firearm-related deaths within the US, Pence told viewers he intends to pass a federal expedited death penalty for anyone involved in a mass shooting if he is elected the next US president."If I'm president of the United States, I'm going to go to the Congress of the United States, and we're going to pass a federal expedited death penalty for anyone involved in a mass shooting so that they meet their fate in months, not years," Pence said.Earlier in September, the Gun Violence Archive monitoring portal said that there have been 502 cases of mass shootings in the US since the beginning of the year.In late August, the group said the frequency of mass shooting incidents increased in 2023 compared with previous years. If the current dynamics at two cases of mass shootings per day continues, the figure will have amounted to 700 cases by the end of 2023, it said.The number of mass shooting cases with four or more killed or wounded has almost tripled over the past decade. In 2014, the US registered 272 such cases. The number of cases totaled 610 in 2020 and has been growing since then, which means that the years of Joe Bidens presidency may become the worst in terms of mass shootings rate.Biden has declared gun violence a top priority of his administration but admitted last year that guns remain the "number one killer of children" in the US. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/house-republicans-fed-up-with-bidens-ukraine-aid-requests-1113469428.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230809/beijing-very-disappointed-with-new-restrictions-on-us-investments-in-china-1112496155.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/trump-slams-biden-for-joining-uaw-strike-says-his-entire-career-union-destruction-1113753858.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230822/firearm-deaths-remain-leading-cause-of-death-among-us-children-rates-rising---study-1112774703.html ukraine china michigan 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 gop primary debate, 2024 us election, takeaways from gop debate https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/europeans-plan-to-interfere-in-armenias-internal-affairs---report-1113758934.html Europeans Plan to Interfere in Armenia's Internal Affairs - Report Europeans Plan to Interfere in Armenia's Internal Affairs - Report The European project, the terms of which have been reviewed by RT, has been allocated 600,000 euros, of which 55,000 euros will be spent on consultants' services in Armenia. 2023-09-28T12:00+0000 2023-09-28T12:00+0000 2023-09-28T12:00+0000 world armenia council of europe europe /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/08/05/1080073959_0:61:1280:781_1920x0_80_0_0_2078e0bc6c74139fa113ec16012a55a0.jpg The project, the terms of which have been reviewed by RT, has been allocated 600,000 euros, of which 55,000 euros will be spent on consultants' services in Armenia. The Council of Europe plans to hire up to 45 specialists with expertise in human rights, sociology and psychology in the military field to advise on the project.It is planned that the contractors, together with the Armenian authorities, will revise the regulatory framework, and military and law enforcement officers will begin to apply "European standards" in their work. At the same time, the Council of Europe has launched several other initiatives in Armenia. For example, in June they announced a tender with a budget of 1.4 million euros to find consultants for a project to "support judicial reform." Then, in May, they sought contractors for the "Democratic Development, Decentralization and Good Governance in Armenia" program. The budget is 1.1 million, and the task is to help adopt a modified legislative framework "in line with European standards and the new territorial-administrative map." https://sputnikglobe.com/20230908/some-85-us-troops-to-train-with-armenian-forces-in-military-drills-next-week-1113194491.html armenia 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 europeans interfere, armenia's internal affairs, consultants' services in armenia https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/get-rich-and-spy-tryin-fbi-investigating-intelligence-role-in-menendez-bribery-case-1113752837.html Get Rich and Spy Tryin: FBI Investigating Intelligence Role in Menendez Bribery Case Get Rich and Spy Tryin: FBI Investigating Intelligence Role in Menendez Bribery Case FBI officials are examining whether Egypt was using the powerful US senator as an unwitting intelligence asset, and potentially opening him up to the threat of blackmail. 2023-09-28T01:56+0000 2023-09-28T01:56+0000 2023-09-28T01:53+0000 americas bob menendez fbi egypt intelligence us bribery /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/101917/00/1019170040_0:318:4109:2629_1920x0_80_0_0_65b3eb58c341b6945dd04fac599ee571.jpg The charges of alleged bribery against New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez made for sensational headlines, with accusations of gold bars and wads of cash being discovered at the politicians home. Now, speculation he was being manipulated by Egyptian intelligence threatens to further disgrace the senator.The story was reported Wednesday by US media outlets which spoke with various figures from the CIA and FBI.Among the intel shared by Menendez that wouldve been most attractive to Egyptian intelligence officials were details about staff working at the US embassy in Cairo. Though such information is not officially classified, its generally unknown to the public. Gathering such information is one way foreign operatives gauge whether a figure is open to working with them.From there, requests for information may increase in scale, with cash and other gifts exchanging hands.Currently, the senator is only being prosecuted on bribery charges. The potential connections to Egyptian intelligence suggest the countrys government may have a greater interest in spying within the United States than previously known.Menendez entered a not guilty plea on Wednesday as he appeared before a federal court in New York Citys lower Manhattan.The excesses of these prosecutors is apparent. They have misrepresented the normal work of a Congressional office. On top of that, not content with making false claims against me, they have attacked my wife for the longstanding friendships she had before she and I even met.The senator was previously indicted on federal corruption charges in 2015, making similar claims of a vast conspiracy against him. The allegations were eventually dropped. The son of Cuban immigrants, hes known for his hard line against Cubas communist-led government. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230927/hes-toast-strong-case-against-senator-menendez-just-tip-of-corruption-iceberg---experts-1113740971.html americas egypt 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 fbi officials, bob menendez, egypt intelligence, blackmail, bribery case https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/house-panel-releases-emails-showing-us-attorney-blocked-fara-probe-into-joe-biden-1113752503.html House Panel Releases Emails Showing US Attorney Blocked FARA Probe Into Joe Biden House Panel Releases Emails Showing US Attorney Blocked FARA Probe Into Joe Biden The House Oversight Committee released redacted emails it claims show that Delaware Assistant US Attorney Lesley Wolf blocked federal agents from conducting a FARA probe into then-presidential nominee Joe Biden in August 2020. 2023-09-28T00:41+0000 2023-09-28T00:41+0000 2023-09-28T00:38+0000 americas joe biden hunter biden foreign agents registration act (fara) house oversight committee investigation /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/08/1113196858_0:0:3364:1893_1920x0_80_0_0_44616770829f7fc0dcb58c5c597a673e.jpg "Newly released emails and documents show that Delaware Assistant US Attorney Lesley Wolf did not allow agents to investigate Joe Biden as part of a FARA probe," the Oversight Committee said via X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday. In the email, dated August 7, 2020, it appears Lesley told federal investigators they made a mistake in their search warrant request by including Biden. Lesley purportedly claims Biden falls outside of the scope of their FARA investigation. The House Oversight Committee will hold the first hearing of the impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden on Thursday to begin further examining alleged criminal activity involving Hunter Biden and his foreign business dealings. The committee has been investigating alleged foreign bribery and influence peddling involving the Biden family and entities in countries including Ukraine and China. Biden denies ever having discussed foreign business affairs with his son. Citing bank records, the committee on Tuesday revealed that Hunter Biden in 2019 received two payments wired from China totaling $260,000 with President Joe Biden's Delaware home listed as the beneficiary address. McCarthy, in light of the new findings, said the Republican impeachment inquiry against Biden will uncover the whole truth. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230912/scaredy-cat-republicans-fear-giving-biden-popularity-boost-with-impeachment-probe-1113324246.html americas 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 house oversight committee, redacted emails, fara investigation, foreign agents registration act, joe biden, https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/how-long-does-it-take-to-train-an-abrams-crew-and-who-will-be-manning-them-in-ukraine-1113774625.html How Long Does It Take to Train an Abrams Crew and Who Will Be Manning Them in Ukraine? How Long Does It Take to Train an Abrams Crew and Who Will Be Manning Them in Ukraine? President Zelensky confirmed Monday that the first Abrams had arrived in Ukraine, expressing gratitude to Kievs US allies for fulfilling their promisenearly four months after the start of Ukraines disastrous counteroffensive. What problems will the tanks run into in Ukraine. Will they even be operated by Ukrainian troops? Sputnik explores. 2023-09-28T17:46+0000 2023-09-28T17:46+0000 2023-09-28T18:40+0000 viktor litovkin ukraine russia us army nato m1 abrams tank m-1 abrams tank tank armor operation /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/104001/19/1040011986_0:155:3500:2124_1920x0_80_0_0_95be59d527b2e68eb8301694cf914260.jpg The delivery of the first batch of American-made M1 Abrams to Ukraine has been met with a flurry of expert opinion on just what impact the tanks will have on the battlefield, with military experts from both Russia and Western countries pointing to numerous problems with the armored juggernauts, from their weight, size and complexity, to the ubiquitous threat of Russian drones, airpower, artillery and tanks.Speaking to French media this week, former Leclerc battalion commander Yann Boivin pointed to the Abrams finicky nature, emphasizing that the tanks could quickly turn into 70-ton armored coffins if not maintained properly and in a timely fashion. The real drawback of the American tank is the high level of maintenance and logistics required. Servicing turbine engines requires a far better trained personnel than servicing diesel ones, the French officer warned. Issues with seals in ammunition chambers, and their vulnerability to enemy fire, are two more major problems, Boivin said.General Mark Hertling, a decorated Gulf and Iraq War veteran and former commander of United States Army Europe, warned that if the Abrams engines are used improperly, the tanks could simply explode.Ukraines 31 Abrams have been modified and downgraded from the ones operated by the US Army, refurbished and rebuilt from the ground up, with their secrecy-laden Chobham composite ceramic, steel, and depleted uranium-laced armor swapped out, presumably due to fears that Russia might capture the tanks and drag them back behind Russian lines to hand them over to military engineers. Russian social media is already flooded with videos and photos of trophy Leopards, Bradleys, and other advanced Western military hardware seized by the Russian military, so the probability of Abrams falling into Russian hands is not insignificant if theyre ever deployed on the battlefield, that is.Light Speed Training From the Realm of FantasyTraining is another problem, with US media reporting this week that NATO countries crash course approach to instructing Ukrainian servicemen to operate alliance equipment has led to poor maintenance, a higher-than-expected incidence of breakdowns, and malfunctioning of heavy weapons onboard systems.About 200 Ukrainian tankers are reported to have received 10-12 weeks of training to operate and repair Abrams, far below the 22 weeks the US Army takes to train a crewman, and the up to 34 weeks to teach a maintenance operator to repair the complex tanks. In the US military, becoming an Abrams repairman requires applicants to score within the top 99th percentile of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, or the top 88th percentile of the Mechanical Maintenance and 92nd percentile of the General Technical test. Whether and how these issues have been addressed for Ukraines tankmen is unclear.Even the best, quickest-training troops cannot master this tank in three months, because they have never seen anything like it before, Litovkin emphasized, pointing to Ukrainian tank crews decades-long experience with Soviet-era armor, whose design school and operations philosophy differs vastly from NATOs.Could Ukraines Abrams Be Manned by Western Mercs or NATO Troops?Pointing out that the Ukrainian servicemen the US has trained to operate Ukraines Abrams could easily be killed in future battles, Litovkin said it remains an open question about who could replace them.Moreover, the precedent already exists. Late last week, Russian forces reported that they had destroyed a German-supplied Leopard tank in Zaporozhye manned by an entirely German-speaking crew, with the tanks mechanic emphasizing that he was not a mercenary but a Bundeswehr serviceman.Maintenance NightmareThe same goes for maintenance, Litovkin said, pointing out that Abrams is a very capricious tank, with its turbine engine guzzling jet fuel, and the piece of armor afflicted by special technical problems.And as the tanks break down, or get stuck, they could instantly find themselves targets for Russian troops armed with man-portable anti-tank weapons, mortars, artillery, and kamikaze drones, Litovkin said. Therefore I dont think that the Abrams will play any major role in modern warfare, with the Americans likely to once again damage their own reputation, just like the British did by sending their "unbeatable" Challengers.If the Abrams are ultimately used by Ukrainians, and not by Western mercs or troops, the only thing accomplished by sending them to Ukraine will be to put Ukrainian soldiers lives in danger, the observer summed up. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230923/russian-reconnaissance-team-destroys-leopard-tank-in-special-op-zone-with-fully-german-crew-1113608814.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230927/us-made-abrams-vs-russias-t-90-which-battle-tank-has-better-odds-in-ukraine-conflict-1113746320.html ukraine russia 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 abrams, m1, tank, armor, main battle tank, ukraine, russia, nato, deliveries, supplies, limitations, drawbacks, capabilities, turbine, engine, training, mercenaries, mercs, analysis https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/japans-seafood-exports-to-china-dive-757-over-fukushima-water-release-1113761032.html Japan's Seafood Exports to China Dive 75.7% Over Fukushima Water Release Japan's Seafood Exports to China Dive 75.7% Over Fukushima Water Release China's seafood imports from Japan decreased by 75.7% in August year-on-year after Beijing introduced a blanket ban on Japanese marine product imports in response to the Fukushima wastewater release, Japanese news agency Kodo reported, citing updated data from the Japanese Finance Ministry. 2023-09-28T10:29+0000 2023-09-28T10:29+0000 2023-09-28T10:29+0000 asia china japan fukushima japanese finance ministry world trade organization (wto) /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/106091/77/1060917747_0:156:3001:1844_1920x0_80_0_0_d0ef4c01be8914cb18618a35ccfbe04f.jpg Imports in August totaled 2.18 billion yen ($14.6 million). Earlier in September, media reported a 67.6% drop in China's seafood imports from Japan last month, citing preliminary customs data. China is the biggest importer of Japanese seafood, having shipped 87.1 billion yen worth of these products in 2022. In July, China slashed imports of Japanese marine products by a third. The decline is attributed to China's ban on imports and processing of Japanese fish and seafood, slapped after Tokyo started releasing water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant into the ocean despite Beijing's objections. On August 24, Japan began dumping treated waste water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean after diluting it with seawater. Tokyo said that the water had been cleaned of all radionuclides except tritium, which was still within acceptable limits. Beijing described the discharged water as "contaminated," while Tokyo vowed to use tools under the rules of the World Trade Organization to respond to China's seafood import ban. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230908/some-150-japanese-residents-file-lawsuit-to-halt-fukushima-water-release---reports-1113202832.html china japan fukushima 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 japan's seafood exports, china's seafood imports, japanese marine product imports https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/more-nuclear-states-would-have-domino-effect-trigger-different-level-of-arms-race-1113763752.html More Nuclear States Would Have 'Domino Effect,' Trigger 'Different Level of Arms Race' More Nuclear States Would Have 'Domino Effect,' Trigger 'Different Level of Arms Race' If Saudi Arabia were ever to became nuclear-armed, it would set off a chain reaction that would augur badly for the region, Mehran Kamrava, Professor of Government at Georgetown University Qatar, told Sputnik. 2023-09-28T16:20+0000 2023-09-28T16:20+0000 2023-09-28T16:20+0000 analysis nuclear weapons nuclear warheads sergey lavrov saudi arabia crown prince mohammed bin salman mohammed bin salman benjamin netanyahu international atomic energy agency (iaea) iran /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/1c/1113769593_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_5e3007412f5bb8971ab00f56dcf8158d.jpg If Saudi Arabia were ever to become "nuclear-armed," it would set off a chain reaction that would augur badly for the region, Mehran Kamrava, professor of government at Georgetown University Qatar, told Sputnik.Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman stated earlier in the month that if Iran were to acquire a nuclear weapon, his country would seek to do the same. If they get one, we have to get one, the crown prince stated in an interview on September 20. It should be noted that the Saudi royal also voiced apprehensions about any country getting a nuclear weapon, saying it would be a bad move. Incidentally, the de facto Saudi leader initially made the same statement back in 2018.'Balancing Regional Power' The crown prince says openly and publicly that Saudi Arabia would need a nuclear weapon if Iran got one because of security reasons and for balancing power in the Middle East, said Dr. Matthew Crosston, professor of national security and director of academic transformation at Bowie State University.The remarks by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman were followed by Saudi Arabia announcing that it was committed to moving forward with its program to build a civilian nuclear power industry, while allowing for greater oversight for International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors.The kingdom has recently taken the decision to rescind its Small Quantities Protocol and to move to the implementation of a full-scope Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement (CSA) Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud said in Vienna on Monday at the IAEAs annual general conference. 'Concessions & Security Guarantees'Furthermore, the debate around the possibility of Saudi Arabia acquiring a nuclear weapon comes as Riyadh and Tel Aviv could be poised to hammer out a deal that would normalize relations between the two countries. A US media outlet reported earlier in the month, citing Israels Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus top confidant, that a normalization deal was going to be worked out in the near future. Israel was at the cusp of a historic peace deal with Saudi Arabia, Netanyahu has said at the recent UN General Assembly.If Saudi Arabia is indeed in the final stages of normalizing relations with Israel, it would explain the timing of the crown prince bringing up the issue of nuclear weapons, Professor Mehran Kamrava suggested. In his opinion, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was "sending a message to the US" in the hopes of "a maximum amount of concessions" from it. The concessions in question refer to reports of a uranium enrichment initiative for the kingdom purportedly floated as part of three-way talks between Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the US. Tel Aviv officials were cited as quietly working with the Biden administration on a project that would envision setting up a US-run uranium-enrichment operation in Saudi Arabia, according to a US media report this month. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ostensibly instructed leading nuclear and security specialists in his country to engage with US negotiators to facilitate the recognition of Israel by Saudi Arabia. The latter could purportedly be speeded up by aiding the kingdom in developing a civilian nuclear program. Neither the US nor Israel have agreed on such a plan, added the report citing sources. However, Joe Biden reportedly discussed the mulled plan when meeting with Benjamin Netanyahu in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.Describing the statements of Saudi Arabia regarding acquiring a nuclear weapon as simply maneuvering, the professor expressed his belief that such aspirations would not have any support.As to who might support a Saudi intention to acquire nuclear weapons on the international arena, there are multiple sides with their own competing (and contradicting) interests, Dr. Matthew Crosston pointed out. The professor used the phrase triangulation strangulation, as he suggested that there was more than just competing sides looking at the issue from a direct binary calculation.Saudi Arabia becoming nuclear-armed would hardly be viewed favorably by China, Crosston added, as Beijings own plans in the region through the BRI project (Belt and Road Initiative ) would seem to indicate a lack of desire to see the region become more weaponized.Regarding Washington, it would clearly choose Saudi Arabia over Iran and would likely be the main motor of further arming the Saudis if it could not stop Iran from becoming nuclear, the pundit said, adding:Speculating on where Saudi Arabia might turn to for acquiring a nuclear weapon, Dr. Matthew Crosston cited renegade factors, or backdoor channels.If Saudi Arabia were to become a nuclear power, the speculation that the "geopolitical reality of the region" would change was dismissed by Dr. Matthew Crosston. He added that he was basing his opinion on the presumption that this likelihood does not happen alone in its own vacuum, but rather as part of a negative duality, where Saudi Arabia is convinced Iran is about to enter the nuclear club as well.Additional Nuclear States a 'Disaster'Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov weighed in on the remarks of the Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during a press conference on September 23, noting that he took it as "a statement of fact.""No one wants more nuclear countries to emerge in the world. The Islamic Republic of Iran has repeatedly confirmed that it does not have such plans. Their spiritual leader even issued a fatwa on the matter," the top Russian diplomat emphasized, adding:Mehran Kamrava agreed with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrovs words.Foreign Minister Lavrov is correct about the international community being averse to seeing any significant change in the current status of nuclear club members, Dr. Matthew Crosston noted. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230926/putin-raisi-discuss-steps-to-ensure-iran-joining-full-fledged-brics-activities---kremlin-1113684171.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230823/irans-new-mohajer-10-drone-shows-its-achieved-deterrence-without-nuclear-weapons---expert-1112822702.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230916/normalizing-israel-saudi-relations-possible-but-not-certainty---us-sec-of-state-blinken-1113412491.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230923/israel-may-be-poised-to-normalize-relations-with-saudi-arabia-1113612231.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230911/whos-to-blame-for-ukraine-crisis-and-rising-global-nuclear-tensions-1113290665.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230907/friction-among-nuclear-powers-may-escalate-into-open-conflict-in-asia-pacific---russias-deputy-fm-1113167264.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230925/how-to-prevent-a-third-world-war-1113589290.html saudi arabia iran israel 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 saudi arabia, saudi arabian crown prince mohammed bin salman, saudi arabia to acquire a nuclear weapon, https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/nagorno-karabakh-announces-cessation-of-existence-of-unrecognized-republic---statement-1113757459.html Nagorno-Karabakh Announces Cessation of Existence of Unrecognized Republic - Statement Nagorno-Karabakh Announces Cessation of Existence of Unrecognized Republic - Statement The Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh will cease to exist from January 1, 2024. President of the unrecognized republic Samvel Shahramanyan signed a decree dissolving all state institutions. 2023-09-28T06:33+0000 2023-09-28T06:33+0000 2023-09-28T12:36+0000 world nagorno-karabakh russia recep tayyip erdogan azerbaijan ilham aliyev russian defense ministry armenia /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/03/1d/1094301409_0:174:3023:1874_1920x0_80_0_0_61fe866ab95377efecda3e1ccac5c9ff.jpg In the decree, Shahramanyan referred to the difficult military-political situation that has arisen."Based on the priority of ensuring the physical security and vital interests of the people of Karabakh, taking into account the agreement reached through the mediation of the command of the Russian peacekeeping contingent with representatives of Azerbaijan that free, voluntary and unimpeded passage of residents of Nagorno-Karabakh, including military personnel who have laid down their arms, with their property is ensured on their vehicles along the Lachin corridor ... a decision was made: to dissolve all state institutions and organizations under their departmental subordination until January 1, 2024, and the Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) ceases to exist," the decree read."The population of Nagorno-Karabakh, including those outside the Republic, after the entry into force of this Decree, should familiarize themselves with the conditions of reintegration presented by the Republic of Azerbaijan in order to make an independent and individual decision on the possibility of staying (returning) in Nagorno-Karabakh," the decree said.The decree goes into effect immediately after publication.Last week, Baku announced the launch of "local anti-terrorist activities" in the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh aimed at "restoring the constitutional order." Yerevan described the operation as aggression against the population of Nagorno-Karabakh and reiterated that it had no military presence in the disputed region. The next day, Azerbaijan and representatives of the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh agreed on a complete cessation of hostilities through the mediation of Russian peacekeepers.On September 21, in the Azerbaijani city of Yevlakh, representatives of Karabakh Armenians met with the delegation of Azerbaijan to discuss reintegration of the region into the republic. The Russian Defense Ministry said September 22 that Karabakh armed units began to surrender weapons and military equipment under the control of Russian peacekeepers.Azerbaijani presidential aide Hikmet Hajiyev said September 22 that the reintegration of Karabakh Armenians into the economic, political and social life of Azerbaijan will be difficult, and some could decide to leave. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, at a meeting with his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan on September 25, expressed confidence that the reintegration process will be successful. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230925/nearly-3000-people-entered-armenia-from-nagorno-karabakh-since-september-19-1113644859.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230924/russian-peacekeepers-escort-311-civilians-from-nagorno-karabakh-to-armenia-1113637333.html nagorno-karabakh russia azerbaijan armenia 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 nagorno-karabakh, existence of unrecognized republic, samvel shahramanyan https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/nazi-hunter-steven-rambam-trudeau-knew-he-applauded-a-monster-1113775972.html Nazi Hunter Steven Rambam: Trudeau Knew He Applauded a Monster Nazi Hunter Steven Rambam: Trudeau Knew He Applauded a Monster There is no way Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau did not know that 98-year-old Yaroslav Hunka, who received a standing ovation in the Canadian legislature, was a Nazi criminal, Steven Rambam, a private investigator and Nazi hunter based in New York, told Sputnik. 2023-09-28T19:10+0000 2023-09-28T19:10+0000 2023-09-28T19:10+0000 us world russia justin trudeau volodymyr zelensky canada poland nazi ss nazis /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/05/12/1095615891_0:0:3003:1690_1920x0_80_0_0_4b5d2a28c2b77dc3bcb6ed98102e40a7.jpg Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has officially apologized for a "deeply embarrassing" incident in the national Parliament, where a Waffen SS veteran was warmly greeted by Canadian politicians."This was a mistake that has deeply embarrassed Parliament and Canada. All of us who were in this House on Friday deeply regret having stood and clapped even though we did so unaware of the context," the Canadian PM said in a brief statement to journalists.Trudeau stressed that Canada is especially sorry for "the situation that [they] put President Zelensky and the Ukrainian delegation in" given that this "egregious error" is being used by Russia's "propaganda."Still, Trudeau's hypocrisy has been called out by Steven Rambam, a private investigator and Nazi hunter based in New York, publicly known for his pro bono activities, which have included the location and investigation of nearly 200 Nazi collaborators and war criminals in the US, Canada, Europe, and Australia.During the Second World War, Hunka served in the 14th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS, also known as SS Galichina. The unit was created by Nazi Germany in 1943 and was composed of Ukrainian nationalist militants. The division was responsible for the ethnic cleansings of Jews and Poles, which was committed with exceptional brutality.Polands Education Minister Przemyslaw Czarnek announced Tuesday that he had "taken steps" toward "the possible extradition" of Yaroslav Hunka to Poland. The unit Hunka served in was particularly responsible for burning alive up to 1,000 Polish villagers, including elderly, women and children, in Huta Pieniacka in 1944.Why Didn't Former Nazi Soldiers Hide in Canada?In fact, it did not take a lot of skill to find former Nazis in Canada as they never hid their real names, Rambam pointed out. "They were absolutely unafraid, unashamed. No remorse, no apology, no nothing," he said."I will tell you that one of them was a Ukrainian and the description of his crimes that we had from our sources, it was just one line specialized in the murder of children. Specialized in the murder of children. So there are other Ukrainians like Mr. Hunka that came to Canada. Of these 200 people, as private persons, I mean, yes, we're investigators, we have special skills, but we were operating not as law enforcement, but as private persons, we were able to find approximately 170 of them."Rambam managed to find one out of every three former Nazis just by looking in the phone book. The ex-militants did not bother to hide: they were so comfortable and so unafraid that they bought houses under their own names. They registered to vote in Canada, like good Canadian citizens. They took out business licenses. Some of them were notary publics, according to the Nazi hunter.Only one of the people whose door Rambam knocked on refused to confirm his identity. Others willingly answered his questions and shared their wartime memories while he made undercover recordings during these interviews. The greatest challenge, per Rambam, was not to grab some of those guys who literally boasted of slaughtering the Jewish people. But he did his job professionally and did not give himself away.Why Did Canada Become Safe Haven for Nazis?Canada became a safe haven for ex-Nazi collaborators, Ukrainians in particular, because there was an enormous culture of anti-Semitism, hatred of Jews in Canada for many years, according to Rambam.Rambam recalled a famous episode cited by Irving Abela, a Canadian historian and author of None is Too Many: Canada and the Jews of Europe 1933-1948, who wrote about Ottawa's refusal to accept Jewish refugees fleeing the Holocaust. A potential immigrant who had been a member of the SS was interviewed by Immigration Canada about whether or not he should be allowed in. Immigration Canada's only concern at that point was whether he was a communist. The man took off his shirt and showed the SS tattoo and he said that he had been killing communists. "And the gentleman from Immigration Canada said, welcome to Canada," Rambam noted. "And this is a man whose entry to Canada was on the basis of being an SS fighter."Trudeau Failed to Mention That Former Waffen SS Soldier Hunka is MonsterRambam drew attention to the fact that Nazism is tolerated more than it used to be. Even though the Canadian government appears to lament the fact that it applauded the former Nazi, it still waters down the problem. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230925/untold-story-of-how-canada-became-a-safe-haven-for-ukrainian-wwii-era-nazis-1113656627.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230926/legendary-nazi-hunter-canada-failed-miserably-in-bringing-nazi-mass-murderers-to-justice-1113694491.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230926/uk-journo-arrested-for-malinformation-after-exposing-trudeau-applauding-nazi-1113677702.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230927/canada-must-bring-to-justice-nazi-ss-veteran-who-spoke-in-countrys-parliament---kremlin-1113731392.html russia canada poland ukraine 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 1Steven Rambam, private investigator and Nazi hunter 1Steven Rambam, private investigator and Nazi hunter 2023-09-28T19:10+0000 true PT1M44S 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ekaterina Blinova nazi criminal, justin trudeau, yaroslav hunka, ukrainian nationalists, ww2, 14th waffen grenadier division of ss, ss galichina, volhynia massacre, huta pieniacka massacre, holocaust, baby yar massacre, ethnic cleansings by ukrainian nationalists, genocide of poles, genocide of jews, nazi criminals in canada, canada safe haven for nazis, house speaker stepped down after nazi soldier incident, nazi soldier in canadian parliament, volodymyr zelensky https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/photo-taiwan-unveils-narwhal-first-domestically-made-submarine-1113780721.html Photo: Taiwan Unveils Narwhal, First Domestically-Made Submarine Photo: Taiwan Unveils Narwhal, First Domestically-Made Submarine The government in Taiwan introduced its first domestically-made submarine on Thursday, the newest part of its effort to grow its naval forces amid its preparations for what it claims is a coming attack by the Chinese mainland. 2023-09-28T21:21+0000 2023-09-28T21:21+0000 2023-09-28T21:18+0000 taiwan taiwanese navy tsai ing-wen sandra oudkirk submarine china asia /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/1c/1113780563_0:161:3071:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_8c59c9fa4344d99b400af8a3e22996e0.jpg The new submarine, dubbed the Narwhal, was unveiled in a ceremony in the southern port of Kaohsiung, with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen in attendance as well as Sandra Oudkirk, the director of the American Institute in Taiwan, which serves as the de facto US embassy on the island.Narwhal is the first sub in Taiwans Indigenous Defense Submarine program, weighing in at nearly 3,000 tons of displacement and 230 feet in length. Eight submarines are planned in the class, which can carry anti-ship torpedoes and sea mines. The subs are powered by diesel-electric motors and built in part using technology sold by the US and UK.In the 1990s, Taipei attempted to buy eight submarines from the United States, which rejected the request over fears it would inflame tensions with the Chinese mainland. However, by 2014, Washington had agreed to help Taiwanese designers create an indigenously-made sub, and in 2018, then-US President Donald Trump approved the necessary technology transfers, which included MK-48 Mod6 torpedoes and reportedly also a version of the AN/BYG-1 submarine combat management system used in US nuclear-powered attack subs.Ret. Taiwanese Navy Adm. Huang Shu-kuang, the director of Taiwans submarine program and a former chief of staff of the Taiwanese military, told media that the Narwhal was a defensive submarine that safeguards our crucial sea space and protects our shipping lanes in the ocean.The government on Taiwan is all that remains of the Republic of China, which once ruled all of China between the abdication of the last Chinese emperor in 1912 and the victory of communist forces in the civil war in 1949, when the Peoples Republic of China was established in Beijing. US forces stopped the Chinese Red Army from invading Taiwan and reuniting it with the mainland, and even after Washington switched its recognition of the legitimate Chinese government from Taipei to Beijing in 1979, it has continued to funnel weapons to the Taipei government.Beijing has outlined its own peaceful plan for reunification with Taiwan that includes a One Country, Two Systems arrangement similar to that used to reintegrate Hong Kong and Macau into the PRC. The two islands in the Pearl River Delta were formerly European colonies seized from China centuries ago. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230913/us-deployments-in-japan-could-chain-gang-tokyo-into-conflict-with-china-1113350821.html taiwan china Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Fantine Gardinier Fantine Gardinier News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Fantine Gardinier taiwan; submarine; narwhal; indigenously designed submarine https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/russia-halts-nuclear-fuel-exports-to-us-over-lack-of-insurance---rosatom-1113769216.html Rosatom Says Fulfilling Obligations Under Contracts on Uranium With Foreign Customers Rosatom Says Fulfilling Obligations Under Contracts on Uranium With Foreign Customers Russia has halted exports of nuclear fuel to the United States over lack of insurance coverage, Russian state nuclear agency Rosatom reported on Thursday. 2023-09-28T13:49+0000 2023-09-28T13:49+0000 2023-09-28T14:21+0000 russia rosatom russia us nuclear fuel russian economy under sanctions science & tech /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/06/0a/1083118796_0:160:3073:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_2137105053944703307d068c2a93ed0a.jpg "The Rosatom State Corporation fulfills its obligations under the concluded contracts with foreign customers in full," Rosatom said.Earlier in the day, the corporation said its Strana Rosatom publication that Russia has halted exports of nuclear fuel to the United States over lack of insurance coverage."The export of nuclear fuel from the ports of St. Petersburg to the United States has been halted due to lack of insurance coverage," the publication said on its Telegram channel.The lack of insurance coverage was one of the reasons for the rise in global uranium prices, Rosatoms Telegram channel noted, citing data from the macroeconomic statistics website Trading Economics. The data showed that on September 25, the price for a pound of uranium rose to $70, and "such prices have not been occurring on the market since 2011, after Japan's Fukushima-1 nuclear disaster." The previous record was also set in September this year at $65.5 per pound, according to Rosatom. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230719/russias-rosatom-says-will-start-mining-uranium-in-namibia-in-2029-1111982040.html 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 nuclear fuel, rosatom, uranium, russian exports, russia-us relations, russia-us trade, insurance coverage, sanctions against russia, sanctions on russia, trade with russia https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/russia-needs-to-boost-defense-spending-to-counter-hybrid-war---kremlin-1113763570.html Russia Needs to Boost Defense Spending to Counter Hybrid War - Kremlin Russia Needs to Boost Defense Spending to Counter Hybrid War - Kremlin An increase in defense spending is necessary for Russia, as the country is living in a state of hybrid war deployed against it, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday. 2023-09-28T11:06+0000 2023-09-28T11:06+0000 2023-09-28T11:06+0000 world russia dmitry peskov volodymyr zelensky canada nazi ukraine kremlin /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/08/01/1112320936_0:106:3265:1943_1920x0_80_0_0_94cb76f524fa1090b130def879587e39.jpg "It is obvious here that such an increase is necessary, absolutely necessary, because we live in a state of hybrid war. We are continuing the special military operation. I mean the hybrid war that is being launched against us. And this requires high expenses," Peskov told reporters, commenting on the draft budget for next year, which provides for an increase in defense spending.Canada needs to learn a lesson after the scandal with the honoring of a Nazi veteran in the parliament and start supporting anti-faschist initiatives, Peskov said.Last Friday, a 98-year-old Ukrainian Nazi veteran Yaroslav Hunka who fought in the ranks of the 14th Waffen Grenadier Division of the Nazi SS during the Second World War, was given a standing ovation by the entire Canadian legislature. Hunka's recognition happened as the then-Speaker of the House of Commons, Anthony Rota, was giving introductory remarks prior to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's address to the Canadian parliament. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230925/armored-behemoths-comparing-nato-and-russias-top-tanks-1113657752.html russia 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 increase in defense spending, hybrid war, russia needs to boost defense spending To jointly create better future for all of humanity 10:31, September 28, 2023 By People's Daily ( People's Daily China's State Council Information Office on Sept. 26 released a white paper titled "A Global Community of Shared Future: China's Proposals and Actions." The white paper comprehensively introduces the ideas and practices of building a global community with a shared future for mankind, showcasing China's active efforts in and contributions to promoting the building of a global community with a shared future for mankind. It is of great significance in enhancing international understanding and comprehension, fostering broad consensus, and promoting closer collaboration among countries to build a global community with a shared future for mankind. The decisions made at the crossroads of history concern the overall interests of humanity and test the wisdom of all countries. Ten years ago, Chinese President Xi Jinping propounded the idea of building a global community of shared future, answering a question raised by the world, by history, and by the times: "Where is humanity headed?" His proposal lights the path forward as the world fumbles for solutions, and represents China's contribution to global efforts to protect our shared home and create a better future of prosperity for all. From "the five-point proposal" to "the five goals," the concept of a global community of shared future, with its deep roots in China's profound cultural heritage and drawing on the outstanding achievements of all other civilizations, pursues openness, inclusiveness, mutual benefit, equity and justice. It has its direction and path, and is about countries with different social systems, ideologies, histories, cultures and levels of development coming together to promote shared interests, shared rights, and shared responsibilities in global affairs. It introduces a new approach for international relations, provides new ideas for global governance, opens up new prospects for international exchanges, and draws a new blueprint for a better world. Over the past decade, China has contributed its strength to building a global community of shared future with firm conviction and solid actions. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a vivid example of building a global community of shared future, and a global public good and cooperation platform provided by China to the world. The Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative proposed by China guide the advance of human society across the three dimensions of development, security and civilization. Resonating and complementing each other, they have evolved into a crucial cornerstone for building a global community of shared future, offering China's solutions to major challenges pertaining to peace and development for humanity. China has proposed a range of regional and bilateral initiatives on building communities of shared future, and is working with stakeholders to build consensus and expand cooperation, thereby playing a constructive role in promoting regional peace and development. China has boosted international cooperation in all areas and made unique contribution to solving global problems. Confronted by the rampant Covid-19 pandemic, China proposed to build a community of health for all. To address disorder in cyberspace governance, China has proposed the concept of a community of shared future in cyberspace. Concerning the fundamental issues in global nuclear security governance, China proposes to build a community of shared future on nuclear security. Faced with increasingly complex maritime issues, China has proposed to form a maritime community of shared future. Faced with the severe and growing global climate challenge, China has proposed important concepts such as building a community of life for humanity and nature and a community of all life on Earth. Today, Changes of the world, of the times and of history are unfolding today in ways like never before. While we live in an age rife with challenges, it is also an age full of hope, which highlights the farsightedness and value to the times of building a global community of shared future. President Xi pointed out, "Amidst the raging torrents of a global crisis, countries are not riding separately in some 190 small boats, but are rather all in a giant ship on which our shared destiny hinges. Small boats may not survive a storm, but a giant ship is strong enough to brave a storm." Faced with profound changes unseen in a century, countries must adhere to peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, and jointly build a global community with a shared future for mankind in order to overcome difficulties and create a better future together. "Boundless is the ocean where we sail with the wind." A broad consensus of solidarity and cooperation has developed in the international community behind the proposal and the implementation of the concept of a global community of shared future to address the challenges facing humanity. Looking to the future, it is bound to open up a beautiful prospect of common development, long-term stability, and sustained prosperity for human society. To realize this goal, confidence and determination are of foremost importance. When all countries work together towards the right direction of building a global community of shared future, they can build an open, inclusive, clean, and beautiful world of lasting peace, universal security and shared prosperity, and jointly create a better future for all of humanity. (Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun) Japan wants to build two seagoing BMD (ballistic missile defense) ships and is faced with two options. The first, which was discarded, was a ship design that only contained the Aegis BMD radar and Aegis system BMD missiles. That would be the sole purpose of these ships. Instead, Japan decided to build two more Maya-class destroyers with additional BMD capabilities. Japan is calling these modified destroyers ASEVs (Aegis system equipped vessels). This is part of the Japanese effort to expand its ballistic missile defenses. Most of these will still be based on the Aegis system, which is normally installed on large (8,000 tons and up) warships. Japan has eight Aegis anti-missile system destroyers but was unsuccessful in placing Aegis Ashore in Japan. There was too much local civilian opposition. Civilians do not object to Aegis equipped ships. Not all the Japanese Aegis destroyers are the same. There are two Maya-Class ships, two Atagos and four Kongos. By 2030 Japan plans to have twelve Aegis equipped warships. Japan was unsuccessful in getting the ASEV ships built. These are 12,000 -ton ships that are 620 feet long and 82 wide and are armed with 128 VLS cells each containing an antiaircraft or BMD missile. A dozen or so cruise or anti-ship missiles are also carried. ASEV has a crew of 240 and a top speed of 58 kilometers an hour. There is an Aegis radar and fire control system to quickly launch the right missile at targets detected by the radar. Working with the radar is ECM (Electronic Countermeasures) that detects electronic threat and an electronic jammer to disrupt that threat if the chaff and decoys do not work. There is one five-inch gun, and a helicopter flight deck with a hangar for one helicopter. While the Japanese destroyers are smaller than the ASEV, their armament is more diverse and capabilities more extensive, which requires larger crews, usually 300 sailors. The destroyers are faster, can travel farther from Japan and more expensive to build and operate than the ASEV. Despite that the first two ASEVs will cost more than a destroyer because of development costs. If Japan builds more ASEVs they will be cheaper than destroyers. The Navy would rather have more destroyers because the ASEV is more of an Aegis system platform than a traditional destroyer. The Maya class destroyers are improved versions of the earlier Atago class. The Mayas also borrow much from the first four Japanese Aegis-ABM ships, the 9,500-ton Kongos, which were built during the 1990s and modeled on the American Burke class Aegis destroyers. The Kongos have 90 VLS (Vertical Launch System) cells for anti-aircraft/missile missiles as well as ASROC anti-submarine rockets that carry an anti-submarine torpedo to, in effect, extend the range of the torpedo by 22 kilometers. Japanese Burke type destroyers also carry a five-inch gun and eight Japanese designed anti-ship missiles which are similar to the American Harpoon. The Maya class has 96 VLS cells (as does Atago) as well as more advanced electronics that enable the Mayas to link with the U.S. Navy CEC (Cooperative Engagement Capability) that allows real-time sharing of sensor and other data in real-time between other CEC equipped ships and even shore-based systems like Aegis Ashore. The two land-based Aegis Ashore anti-missile systems were not expected to be in service until 2024, but popular opposition caused the ashore program to be terminated. The ASEV was developed to do what Aegis Ashore was intended to do but wont be in service until 2027 and 2028. ASEV can operate from coastal waters or a harbor as well as on the high seas to protect the fleet. ASEV is a more flexible and more expensive, at $2.6 billion each, substitute for the $1.6 billion Aegis Ashore now operational in Romania and Poland. Japans eight destroyers armed with Aegis anti-missile systems (four Kongos, two Atagos and two Mayas ) and the proposed two ASEVs will give Japan ten Aegis systems, all of them operating from ships. North Korea continues to be a threat and how much more of a ballistic missile threat China becomes is still considered less of a problem now but could escalate in the future. China has a long history of threatening but not acting. North Korea has demonstrated an ability to attack without warning and did so in 2010. North Korea has always been less cooperative than China although the Chinese are still a threat. What prompted the original Aegis Ashore concept was the Japanese decision, in 2017, that it did not need the more expensive THAAD anti-missile system when it realized that two land-based Aegis systems on the main island could do the same job at less cost. That plus the Aegis equipped destroyers armed with the SM-3A anti-missile missile would enable those two land-based Aegis systems to protect all three of the home islands. Local civilians protested because the missile launches were noisy and the Aegis radar generated a lot of microwave radiation. This forced government officials to oppose the Aegis Ashore and Japan lost the cost savings of a land based system. The expensive ASEV was developed to replace Aegis Ashore. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/spacex-receives-contract-for-starshield-pentagons-version-of-starlink-satellite-network-1113773601.html SpaceX Receives Contract for Starshield, Pentagons Version of Starlink Satellite Network SpaceX Receives Contract for Starshield, Pentagons Version of Starlink Satellite Network The Pentagon has increasingly leaned on the private sector to pioneer new high-tech tools for the US military to adopt and incorporate, creating fertile ground for firms like Elon Musks SpaceX to win lucrative new contracts. 2023-09-28T18:17+0000 2023-09-28T18:17+0000 2023-09-28T18:17+0000 military elon musk michael maloof spacex starlink pentagon contract satellite starshield /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/107711/78/1077117893_1:0:1000:562_1920x0_80_0_0_f629b545c5e83d452f0710249cee5499.jpg SpaceX has received its first contract from the US military to provide satellite communications using the Starshield system, a militarized version of the Starlink internet network. Musk recently furrowed brows at the Pentagon after refusing to allow Starlink to be used by the Ukrainian military for an attack on Crimea.Space Exploration Technologies Corp., better known as SpaceX, received a one-year, $70 million contract from the US Space Force (USSF) at the beginning of the month to begin work on Starshield, the company confirmed following reports in US media. It is one of 18 companies competing for some $900 million in contracts for the USSFs Proliferated Low Earth Orbit program over the next five years.The contract follows a June deal with the Pentagon to provide an unspecified number of Starlink ground terminals for use in Ukraine. SpaceX has cooperated with Kiev to give navigation and communications support for the Armed Forces of Ukraine since the launch of Russias special operation in early 2022, but the company has garnered criticism in the West for refusing to provide service in the Donbass or Crimea, territories now a part of the Russian Federation, over fears that a Ukrainian attack there could trigger a dramatic escalation.In that same interview, Isaacson noted that Musk created Starshield last year so he could give the Pentagon direct control over Starlink satellites.What he did, which I think is the right outcome, is he decided to sell and give total control over a certain amount of Starlink equipment, Starlink services to the US military so that he no longer controls the geofencing. He no longer controls the terms of use, Isaacson said.And he's even created something called Starshield, which is a military version of the Starlink satellite, and so I think that was his way of saying, I got to get out of this. Even I don't believe I should have this much power, the biographer added.Michael Maloof, a former senior security policy analyst in the Office of the US Secretary of Defense, told Sputnik that the Starshield project was a natural progression of Musks growing entwinement with the US military apparatus.The military was impressed with Starlink, the commercial version for communications, data processing and what-have-you. Starshield has been an outgrowth of that for specific military and intelligence programs. So this is just the initial cut, and I'm sure it will expand very, very rapidly, because that technology is readily available commercially, rather than the Defense Department going through an entire research and development process, Maloof explained, adding that the Pentagon would be able to modify the satellites as it desires, such as encrypting them.Space is the fastest growing area right now in the defense budget. And it's just going to increase because that's basically where warfare is taking us these days. And both Russia and China, and other countries that have growing space capabilities, are now seeing where they're going to be heading in the future for communications, for target acquisition and locations, very, very rapidly. And as a consequence, it's naturally going to lead to more of an SDI or space defense initiative that will grow from that to protect those satellites over time, he said.Maloof said he thought Musks standing with the US military sphere would inevitably expand after getting the Starshield contract.The space program in the military has become one of the fastest-growing areas today, and I think Russia and China have recognized that because they're doing their own. So it's not just the US in this business. And in some respects, the US is behind what Russia and China have achieved just in hypersonics, so space has become the new thing now, and I think we're going to see that theres nowhere to go but up, as far as increasing in missions and in complexity and certainly in spending. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230913/musk-ukraine-demanded-spacex-violate-us-sanctions-to-aid-crimea-drone-attack-1113352411.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230925/how-to-prevent-a-third-world-war-1113589290.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230915/us-space-force-prepares-to-establish-command-post-in-japan-1113401683.html Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Fantine Gardinier Fantine Gardinier News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Fantine Gardinier starlink; starshield; spacex; elon musk; satellite communications; space force https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/trudeau-apology-not-enough-canada-must-apologize-directly-to-russian-people-diplomat-says-1113753531.html Trudeau 'Apology' Not Enough, Canada Must Apologize Directly to Russian People, Diplomat Says Trudeau 'Apology' Not Enough, Canada Must Apologize Directly to Russian People, Diplomat Says Trudeau's 'apology' for honoring Ukrainian Nazi veteran Yaroslav Hunka is not a real one and Ottawa should find the courage to apologize directly to the Russian people, the Russian Ambassador to Canada said. 2023-09-28T02:59+0000 2023-09-28T02:59+0000 2023-09-28T02:56+0000 americas oleg stepanov justin trudeau canada russia ukraine house of commons nazi ottawa apology /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/1a/1113686839_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_1b2f1959eac76c7d3b2b4b375d4787d1.jpg "The Prime Ministers 'apology,' which we heard today in the House of Commons, is not an apology. And it is not enough," Stepanov said on Wednesday. Earlier Wednesday, Trudeau apologized on behalf of the House of Commons to Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his delegation for the position they were put in by giving a standing ovation to Nazi veteran Yaroslav Hunka at the Canadian parliament. The apology came in response to a question by Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre on whether Trudeau would take personal responsibility and apologize on his behalf for the global shame brought upon Canada. The ambassador emphasized that Russia was the main force in defeating Nazi Germany during World War II and experienced devastating losses to achieve victory. "Eleven million military personnel fell on the battlefields and 16 million civilians died due to the ethnic purges under the Nazi occupation at the hands of the SS, including the notorious 14th Division of the SS 'Galicia,' the death squads (Einsatzgruppen) and Nazi collaborators," Stepanov said. "Imagine - this is the combined current population of Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia provinces!" Stepanov also noted that there are more than 200,000 Canadians of Russian descent. Trudeau also said on Wednesday that honoring the Ukrainian Nazi veteran was deeply embarrassing for the Canadian parliament and the country, but that the scandal would not affect Ottawa's ongoing support for Kiev. The Russian diplomat further revealed that Russia may launch a criminal case against Ukrainian Nazi veteran Yaroslav Hunka and seek his extradition from Canada. Russia is reviewing the Hunka story. May open criminal case and subsequent extradition request, the embassy quoted Stepanov as saying. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230927/trudeau-apologizes-on-behalf-of-canadas-house-for-inviting-ukrainian-nazi-veteran-hunka-1113747697.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230927/canada-must-bring-to-justice-nazi-ss-veteran-who-spoke-in-countrys-parliament---kremlin-1113731392.html americas canada russia ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International yaroslav hunka, house of commons, canadian parliament, russian ambassador to canada oleg stepanov, justin trudeau, canadian prime minister https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/ukraine-loses-230-troops-in-donetsk-zaporozhye-directions-in-past-day-1113765011.html Ukraine Loses 230 Troops in Donetsk, Zaporozhye Directions in Past Day Ukraine Loses 230 Troops in Donetsk, Zaporozhye Directions in Past Day Ukraine has lost about 230 servicemen in the Donetsk and Zaporozhye directions over the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry reported on Thursday. 2023-09-28T11:50+0000 2023-09-28T11:50+0000 2023-09-28T11:50+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine ukrainian crisis ukraine russia donetsk zaporozhye ukraine crisis ukrainian conflict ukrainian counteroffensive attempt russian forces /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/0b/08/1103905333_0:251:3072:1979_1920x0_80_0_0_0bdc878d87c1711162f8cbf13098d4c4.jpg Over the given period, the Russian armed forces have repelled two attacks by the Ukrainian troops in the Donetsk direction, two attacks in the South Donetsk direction, and one in the Krasny Liman direction. Ukraine has also lost up to 105 soldiers in the South Donetsk direction, the ministry said. Additionally, the Russian forces destroyed an ammunition depot of Ukraine's ground forces near the settlement of Bogdanovka in the Kirovograd Region, the statement read. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230921/scott-ritter-ukraine-shows-us-military-not-ready-for-major-war-1113561694.html ukraine russia donetsk zaporozhye 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 donetsk, zaporozhye, ukrainian troops, ukrainian losses, 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 https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/unicef-sounds-alarm-due-to-most-severe-diphtheria-outbreak-in-nigeria-1113754906.html Nigeria Suffers Most Severe Diphtheria Outbreak Nigeria Suffers Most Severe Diphtheria Outbreak The United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) on Wednesday raised the alarm and urged for widespread vaccination against the background of the most severe diphtheria outbreak in Nigeria. 2023-09-28T04:30+0000 2023-09-28T04:30+0000 2023-09-28T04:53+0000 africa nigeria unicef vaccination /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/107846/71/1078467182_0:246:1878:1302_1920x0_80_0_0_df0a0bbbbbe1e0d2620901b4657c7a3d.jpg "In the midst of the most severe diphtheria outbreak in recent global history, UNICEF Nigeria is sounding the alarm about the urgent need for widespread vaccination," UNICEF Nigeria said in a statement on the website. UNICEF said that over 11,500 suspected cases and more than 7,000 confirmed cases of diphtheria, mostly in children aged between 4 to 15 years, have so far been detected in the country, adding that the outbreak has already claimed the lives of 453 people. UNICEF also pointed out that the majority of children "have not received even a single dose of the vital vaccine" against diphtheria, urging for vaccination in Nigeria. UNICEF Nigeria also said that it needs to raise an additional $3.3 million by the end of the year to respond effectively to the outbreak and called on partners, stakeholders and the international community "to rally together to ensure that every child in Nigeria is reached with life-saving vaccines." https://sputnikglobe.com/20220915/nigeria-strikes-deal-with-india-to-build-vaccine-plant-as-delhi-deepens-africa-ties-1100803059.html africa nigeria Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International united nations childrens fund, diphtheria outbreak in nigeria https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/university-of-alberta-closed-hunka-fund-soon-after-russian-embassys-request-1113776456.html University of Alberta Closed Hunka Fund Soon After Russian Embassys Request University of Alberta Closed Hunka Fund Soon After Russian Embassys Request The University of Alberta has announced about the closure of the research endowment fund bearing the name of Ukrainian Nazi veteran Yaroslav Hunka and his wife Margaret soon after the public address by the Russian Embassy in Canada, whose work was timely, Russian Ambassador to Ottawa Oleg Stepanov told Sputnik on Thursday. 2023-09-28T18:06+0000 2023-09-28T18:06+0000 2023-09-28T18:17+0000 americas university of alberta russian embassy russia nazi ukraine canada nazism waffen ss waffen-ss /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/19/1113639601_332:0:2561:1254_1920x0_80_0_0_7a8362813d6dfd7deafff8e304563032.png "As a result of our work, the embassy discovered that Hunka and his family have an educational fund at the University of Alberta. But even after this scandal it continued to exist absolutely officially," Stepanov said. Interim Provost and Vice-President Verna Yiu said on Thursday that the University of Alberta has decided to close the research endowment fund bearing the name of Ukrainian Nazi veteran Yaroslav Hunka and his wife Margaret, and refund the donation. americas russia ukraine canada 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 nazi fund, ukrainian nazi veteran, nazi canada, canadian parliament, anti-nazi movement, nazis in canada, nazism, west for nazis, nazi west, waffen ss, ukrainian nazis, west supports nazism, west supports ukrainian nazis, canada supports ukrainian nazis, canada for ukrainian nazis https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/us-canada-seek-to-destabilize-india-through-khalistan-separatist-movement-1113771194.html US, Canada Seek to Destabilize India Through Khalistan Separatist Movement US, Canada Seek to Destabilize India Through Khalistan Separatist Movement The Biden administration is fueling the ongoing Indian-Canada diplomatic crisis as part of longstanding effort to undermine New Delhis internal stability, Indian geopolitical analyst Abhijit Chavda told Sputnik's New Rules podcast. 2023-09-28T16:08+0000 2023-09-28T16:08+0000 2023-09-28T16:27+0000 us analysis americans joe biden canada china new delhi nazis nato pierre trudeau /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/0a/09/1101651979_0:161:3071:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_51caf4184a6d8d4ce3d19a6c3e45ea7d.jpg Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau last week accused the Indian government of having a hand in the fatal shooting of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a chief of Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), banned in India, but provided zero evidence to back up his claim. New Delhi resolutely denied the allegations, condemning Canada for becoming a home to the members of the Khalistan movement, designated as terrorists in India.Abhijit Chavda believes that Canada knowingly provides shelter to the Khalistan separatists who are running a secessionist campaign against India from abroad and motivating Punjab Sikhs to join militant ranks. Why would Ottawa do this?Why Did US and Canada Aid Khalistan Separatist Movement?The Khalistan movement declared Punjab, an Indian state bordering Pakistan, a "Sikh homeland," in 1930, and has since then waged an insurgent movement against Delhi. In the 1970s and 1980s, armed Khalistan insurgents received weapons and training from Pakistan, akin to Afghanistans Mujahedeen, and enjoyed Western backing. The secessionist movement was used by the US and its NATO allies to balkanize India, which was at the time a Soviet Union ally, according to Chavda.In the 1980s, when the Indian government started cracking down on Khalistan, many of its members found refuge mostly in five Anglophone countries the US, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, Sputnik's interlocutor explained.Canada Turns Blind Eye to Criminal History of Khalistan and Nazis AlikeIn 1985, the Khalistan militants blew up an Air India Boeing 747 flying from Canada to India; all 329 people on board were killed and many of them were Canadian citizens, Chavda underscored. "But Canada still did not learn its lesson and it's continued supporting these people," he said.Canada appeared to welcome extremists of all stripes as long as they were hostile to the USSR and its allies during the Cold War era. Thus, Canadian military and intelligence agencies also brought thousands of former Nazis into their country. These people were actively encouraged by the Canadian government and given an opportunity to form a powerful ethnic lobby, both in business and politics.Per Chavda, it seems like this Cold War-era policy never ended, given that Nijjar and many other Khalistani extremists have found a safe haven in Canada, and that a former Waffen SS soldier has recently been given a standing ovation from the entire Canadian legislature.Despite Wooing New Delhi, Biden Admin Fears India's Superpower PotentialOne shouldn't be deluded by a pro-Indian shift adopted by the Biden administration, Chavda noted. During the Cold War, then-President Richard Nixon wooed China to pit it against the USSR and India. Now that China is seen as a geopolitical challenge by Washington, the US foreign policy establishment is trying to use India as a tool against China and Russia. But that is not all, as Washington wants to undermine India as well in this great power game, per the Indian analyst."So in the long run, India is a problem for the US. But right now they need India against China. So they have a kind of a balancing strategy. On the one hand, they will support India when it comes to their interests against China, but they will also oppose India in a variety of ways. They will create problems for India. There are problems in India's Far East, the Northeast, Manipur and all that. They supported the Kashmir terrorism insurgency for a very long time. They supported Pakistan against India. The Khalistan movement is there," Chavda continued.There is more to the case of Hardeep Singh Nijjar than meets the eye, the Indian geopolitical analyst stressed. According to him, both Canadian and American intelligence services were well aware that Nijjar was an insurgent leader.According to the US mainstream press, the American intelligence services provided their Canadian counterparts with information that helped Canada "conclude" that India "had been involved". For their part Canadian secret services are said to intercept "smoking gun" communications between Indian diplomats in Canada indicating "involvement in the plot", per officials quoted by the US media. A top US diplomat in Canada confirmed there was "shared intelligence among Five Eyes partners" concerning the matter.However, the timing of the accusations raises further questions. Nijjar was murdered in June and now, after India voted for the expansion of BRICS, de-dollarization and new financial mechanisms alongside Russia, China, Brazil, and South Africa, the Canadian government voiced groundless claims of New Delhi participating in the killing of the Sikh separatist. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230919/india-canada-hit-pause-on-trade-talks-expel-diplomats-amid-khalistan-spat-1113487152.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230911/how-us-could-turn-india-middle-east-europe-economic-corridor-into-destabilizing-tool-1113290474.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20220922/india-slams-canada-for-allowing-khalistan-referendum-by-sikh-extremists-1101088913.html canada china new delhi southeast asia 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 india, canada, justin trudeau, narendra modi, khalistan separatist movement, khalistan movemet, cold war, ussr, indira gandhi, pierre trudeau, nazi militants, canada is safe haven for nazi militants, canada safe haven khalistan separatism, india-canada tensions, us, biden's indo-pacific strategy, brics, balkanization of india, us spied on indian diplomats, five eyes intelligence, hardeep singh nijjar, killing of hardeep singh nijjar, killing of khalistan terrorist in canada, killing of sikh leader in canada https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/us-china-trade-rift-south-koreas-semiconductor-titans-treads-carefully-1113734553.html US-China Trade Rift: South Korea's Semiconductor Titans Treads Carefully US-China Trade Rift: South Korea's Semiconductor Titans Treads Carefully South Korea's semiconductor sector, deeply linked to China, occupies a central position in the nation's economy. However, as the United States ramps up efforts to curb China's technological progress, South Korea's vital chip industry is threatened, prompting calls for strategic solutions. 2023-09-28T12:10+0000 2023-09-28T12:10+0000 2023-09-28T12:10+0000 world garret graves joe biden china south korea taiwan taiwan semiconductor manufacturing company (tsmc) sk hynix samsung us department of commerce /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/0b/02/1080954125_159:0:3800:2048_1920x0_80_0_0_a46ad46edf1590cce83a64cc2d2bef4d.jpg South Korea's semiconductor powerhouses, Samsung and SK Hynix, have funneled an outstanding $52 billion to consolidate their operations in the Chinese market that has long been a bedrock of their sales.Nevertheless, the once robust relationship between South Korea's chip industry and China faces increasing pressure from geopolitical forces.One of the pivotal methods the US used to fuel this trade war was implementing export controls and sanctions targeting the sale of advanced semiconductor manufacturing equipment and technology to Chinese firms in two distinct rules on October 7, 2022. The Commerce Department's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has unveiled a series of regulations to constrain China's ability to both purchase and manufacture certain high-end chips used in military applications.The US government, citing national security concerns, sought to restrict the export of cutting-edge technologies that China could use for military purposes or to enhance its domestic semiconductor capabilities. The US Department of Commerce added several Chinese companies, including major semiconductor firms like SMIC (Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation), to its Entity List.Additionally, the US initiated investigations and imposed tariffs on Chinese semiconductor products. These measures were part of broader trade disputes between the two nations, and they raised costs for Chinese semiconductor companies trying to export their products to the US market. This not only put economic pressure on China's semiconductor industry but also signaled a willingness by the US to use trade policy as a tool to shape the global semiconductor landscape.Furthermore, the US government actively pressured its allies and trading partners to adopt similar export controls and restrictions on semiconductor-related technologies. This created a global environment where China faced difficulties acquiring critical components and equipment necessary for its semiconductor industry's development.The Trump administration succeeded in browbeating the Dutch government to limit the export of extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines (made by Dutch ASML Holding) to China to deal a blow to the Chinese semiconductor production capabilities. This piece of sophisticated equipment is vital in producing advanced chips.However, the Biden government is upping the ante by seeking to render the chipmaking prowess of China.Chinese Role for South Korean ChipsThe economic well-being and job market of South Korea hinge heavily on its semiconductor industry. The nation confronts a complex situation, standing at the crossroads of its abiding partnership with the United States and China, embroiled in an ongoing trade dispute.Washington has intensified its control over the export of such critical technologies. This move, initiated in October 2022 by the Biden administration, has unsettled South Korea, prompting lobbying in the US to mitigate potential harm to South Korea's semiconductor industry.In mid-October 2022, Samsung and SK Hynix were granted a one-year waiver, providing a reprieve from export regulations. As its expiration is on the horizon, there is a general belief that it could be renewed, though such an outcome is doubtful.Semiconductor production entails massive transnational distribution networks and initiatives aimed at instituting new industry regulations have prompted a thorough evaluation of commercial partnerships across Asia and the West.China plays a dual role as it offers a vast chip customer base and houses substantial production facilities for South Koreas Samsung and SK Hynix.In the last ten years, China consistently held the lion's share, at one point reaching almost 67 percent of South Korean chip exports. Regardless, this number receded to 55 percent in the previous year, as per an evaluation of South Korean government findings. Moreover, data on semiconductor sales are not made public due to weak demand.However, financial reports produced by subsidiaries of Korean companies in China showed a marked 35 percent decrease in sales in the first six months of 2023.How US Sanctions on China Affect South Korea's Industry Yang Hyang-ja, a former Samsung executive and currently a lawmaker in the National Assembly, has emerged as a prominent voice in South Korean politics on this matter. She has staunchly asserted that the country is a victim in the ongoing trade dispute and has proposed tax reductions to support chip manufacturers. This proposal, known as the K-Chips Act, received approval in March. We are taking a direct hit, she expressed.Samsung's operational strategy in China involves the production of 40 percent of its NAND chips, a vital component in data storage for devices. SK Hynix, too, has a significant presence in China, where it manufactures 30 percent of its NAND chips and nearly half of its Dynamic random-access memory chips - critical in facilitating short-term storage for PCs and servers.In an official statement, Samsung clarified that its investments have been judiciously made to fulfill the needs of a worldwide customer base and address other pressing demands.The uncertainties spawned by the China-US trade spat impact more than just Samsung and SK Hynix. The Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the world's famed semiconductor chip maker, is also in limbo, awaiting word from the US Department of Commerce regarding the outcome of their exemptions from export regulations.The Commerce Department has opted to withhold a formal response on the matter. Instead, they have referred to a statement by Deputy Commerce Secretary Don Graves. During his recent visit to Korea, Graves emphasized the United States' unwavering commitment to exhaust all avenues supporting businesses, ensuring their uninterrupted operations.For Samsung and SK Hynix, a waiver lasting a year or less could impede their progress in the fast-evolving chip-making industry. Staying competitive demands significant investments in equipment, parts, and research. The manufacturing facilities for chips are high-priced, ranging from tens to hundreds of millions of dollars.Semiconductor analyst Song Myung-sup suggests that companies like SK Hynix and Samsung may redirect their production efforts in China to cater to the local market. They could also focus on making less advanced products to circumvent US restrictions. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230913/us-economic-war-on-russia-and-china-africas-revolt-against-neocolonialism-1113339533.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230905/china-reportedly-creates-40-bn-semiconductor-fund-to-blow-off-western-restrictions-1113136163.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230810/why-is-tsmc-building-a-multibillion-dollar-semiconductor-chip-factory-in-germany-1112491419.html china south korea taiwan Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Chimauchem Nwosu https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/01/1113046371_0:99:1536:1635_100x100_80_0_0_9c5c627283eca931c39fe4852bbb301c.jpg Chimauchem Nwosu https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/01/1113046371_0:99:1536:1635_100x100_80_0_0_9c5c627283eca931c39fe4852bbb301c.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Chimauchem Nwosu https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/01/1113046371_0:99:1536:1635_100x100_80_0_0_9c5c627283eca931c39fe4852bbb301c.jpg south korea, semiconductor, samsung, sk hynix, chinese chips market, sales, chip industry, geopolitical forces, united states, china, china-us trade dispute, chip technology, semiconductor export regulations, biden administration, semiconductor export waiver, economic upheaval, trade restrictions, chip exports, memory chips, trendforce, nand chips, data storage, dynamic random-access memory chips, pcs, servers, k-chips act, tax reductions, operational strategy, worldwide customer base, taiwan semiconductor manufacturing company, tsmc, us commerce department, deputy commerce secretary don graves, equipment, parts, research, manufacturing facilities, semiconductor analyst, dalian factory, capital expenditure, yongin, strategic investment, sustained growth, technological advancement, semiconductor exports, chip production, semiconductor manufacturing, korean semiconductor chips. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230928/vladimir-putin-meets-with-newly-elected-governors-of-russian-regions-1113766874.html Vladimir Putin Meets With Newly Elected Governors of Russian Regions Vladimir Putin Meets With Newly Elected Governors of Russian Regions Russian President Vladimir Putin has met with the heads of 26 regions, where elections were held earlier in September. 2023-09-28T13:03+0000 2023-09-28T13:03+0000 2023-09-28T15:48+0000 russia russia vladimir putin elections /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/1c/1113766699_0:136:3158:1912_1920x0_80_0_0_f2c6bf1c86ffcd0b890a15f45a003362.jpg Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the level of confidence in the elected heads of regions means even greater responsibility, adding that it is necessary to justify as far as possible the choice of voters and the hopes of regional residents for positive change.Putin said that the elections held in the new territories were an important step towards integration. According to him, the 2023 elections were open, fair, competitive and with a high turnout, which reflects the intelligence of the electorate, adding that the elected governors should maximize the justification of the voters' choice. The Russian president stressed that it is a moral duty to support the servicemen of the special military operation and their families. External pressure has become a powerful incentive for the growth of domestic production and Russian business should be supported, Putin added.The meeting was attended by the heads of 26 regions, where elections for the heads of the highest executive authorities were held this year. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230908/regional-elections-in-russia-1113227817.html 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 russian president vladimir putin, elected governors of russian regions After setting a Canadian record with his 1:50.2 win in the Maple Leaf Trot on Sept. 2, Alrajah One IT will make his next start on Saturday, Sept. 30 when he meets eight rivals in the $250,000 Dayton Trotting Derby for older male trotters at Hollywood Dayton Raceway. The Italian-bred star, who was a multiple Group 1 stakes-winner in Europe, is undefeated in four races since arriving in the U.S. last year. No horse has been nearer than 1-1/2 lengths of Alrajah One IT at the finish line of any of those races. On Saturday, the seven-year-old stallion will start from post nine with Dexter Dunn driving for trainer Ake Svanstedt. Svanstedt, who won the previous two editions of the Dayton Trotting Derby with Back Of The Neck, will also send out Charlie Hill Memorial winner Incommunicado and Sebastian K Invitational winner Southwind Tyrion in this years event. Andy McCarthy will drive Incommunicado from post seven while Svanstedt will drive Southwind Tyrion from post six. Saturdays card also features the Dayton Oaks Derby for older female trotters, Dayton Derby for older male pacers and Dayton Distaff Derby for older female pacers. Each of the three races go for a purse of $250,000. First-race post time is 5 p.m. (EDT). The derbies are the final four events on the 14-race card. Alrajah One IT, a son of Maharajah-Mariu owned by Scuderia My Horse Inc., has won 17 of 44 career races and earned $1.77 million. His triumph in the Maple Leaf Trot followed a nearly 13-month layoff because of injury. He came out of the race good and everything is normal with him, said Svanstedt. Hes trained good. Svanstedt has developed a reputation for having horses primed for big performances off lengthy respites. Alrajah One IT captured his North American debut, the Crawford Farms Open Trot, by 2-1/2 lengths in a then stakes record-equalling 1:50.4 (with a :25.3 last quarter-mile) in July 2022. It was his first start in a little more than seven months following his arrival from Europe. Hes not a horse that needs to go races to come into form, siad Svanstedt. You can train him into top form. I want to train them into form, I dont want to race in a couple of overnights before they race," he added about his general approach to preparing horses. "I want to save them for the big races. I want to have them sound and healthy, and ready mentally also. There are different styles for different trainers. [Ron] Burke has his own style and he is very successful. His horses race every week and they race good. I cant do it that way. My style is to not race them so often and have them ready for the big purses. That is my style. Burke has two horses in the Dayton Trotting Derby, Its Academic and Hillexotic. Burke won the 2020 race with the mare, Atlanta. Its Academic has hit the board in 12 of 13 races this year, winning eight. His victories include a stakes record 1:50.2 score in the Crawford Farms, the John Cashman Memorial, Spirit of Massachusetts and this past weeks Caesars Trotting Classic. He finished second in the Maple Leaf Trot. He will start Saturday from post five with driver David Miller. Hillexotic, who won this years Maxie Lee Memorial, will leave from post three with Yannick Gingras. Svanstedt and Burke also have top contenders in the Dayton Oaks, with Svanstedt-trained Jiggy Jog S starting from post seven with Dunn and Burke-trained M Ms Dream starting from post nine with Miller. M Ms Dream has won seven of 10 races this year and brings a three-race win streak to Dayton. She is a nose from being undefeated in her past six starts and has beaten Jiggy Jog S in their only two previous meetings this season. Jiggy Jog S has finished no worse than second in seven races this year, winning four. She heads to Dayton off a second-place finish in the MGM Yonkers International Trot. She is only a four-year-old and was racing against all tough horses that have been to the Prix dAmerique and Elitloppet, so she did very good, said Svanstedt. She came out good from the race. Shes raced good every time. I hope she is ready for another good one. To view Saturday's entries, click here. (USTA) Horse Racing New Brunswick (HRNB) will host another five dashes on Saturday afternoon (Sept. 30) at Connell Park in Woodstock,N.B. with post time slated for 1 p.m. In the afternoon's top class, two entries from the George Rennison stable of Truro Raceway will be the top two to beat in the featured fifth race. American Risk will look for his second straight victory after coming off an injury. He was a handy winner last weekend at Woodstock with Todd Trites, who let the classy veteran close home in :28.3 to preserve the victory. American Risk will have the outside post four while stablemate Privilege will leave from post three. Privilege was also a winner last week and the Rennison stable will be looking for a 1-2 finish. The Allan Jones-trained J J Breanne and John Davidson will have the inside advantage in the $2,500 event. Rollin Doubles is the other entry in the field for driver Stephen Trites and trainer Charles Miles. Mark Haig, winner of the Walter Dale Memorial earlier this year with Stash It Away, gets the catch-drive on American Risk, while trainer Rennison will drive Privilege. There are five races on the afternoon at the picturesque half-mile track in Woodstock, N.B and wagering is available through HPIbet. If fans cant make it to Connell Park, Universum Media will be providing streaming on its YouTube channel. Horse Racing New Brunswick would like to thank the horsemen and women who are taking part in Saturdays card. To view Saturday's harness racing entries, click the following link: Saturday Entries - Woodstock Raceway NB. (HRNB) Islamic terrorist violence in the north has left nearly 200 dead in the last month. The military government of Mali was dismayed to discover that the expensive Russian mercenaries were unable to deal with the rebels in the far north. Now these Islamic terrorist rebel attacks are moving closer to the capital in the far south. The failure of the Russian mercenaries was partly due to the recent demise of their leaders back in Russia. Soon after the Wagner Group business jet went down in Russia, apparently due to sabotage by the Russian government, a Russian general showed up in Mali to inform the Russian mercenaries and their Mali employers that there were some changes. Wagner Group no longer existed and has been replaced by another mercenary outfit controlled by the Russian government. The general told the Wagner men in Mali that they could continue operating as mercenaries but that the Russian Ministry of Defense would command and pay them. Any men who did not want to work for the new organization could just leave, but not return to Russia, where they might be arrested for criminal behavior in Mali. Back in Russia, the government has settled its disputes with the Wagner Group by giving Wagner Group personnel overseas a choice of either working for the Russian military or being declared outlaws and no longer have any official or financial connection with the government. The Mali government was informed of this change and advised that it was in Malis interest to deal directly with the Russian government about Russian troops in Mali and requisitions for more weapons and munitions from Russia. Previously the Mali military government used locally mined gold to pay for Russian weapons and the services of Russian mercenaries and soldiers. Mali is a major producer of gold and the Russians have always been willing to accept payments in gold. Russia maintains a huge gold stockpile (about 2,300 tons), the fifth largest in the world. The Russian gold is an emergency fund that is now being tapped to pay for military operations in Ukraine. The military government in Mali hoped that hiring Russian Wagner Group mercenaries would enable Mali to maintain control of northern and central Mali. These two regions have been under growing attack by Islamic terror groups but the Russians made it worse. The Mali military government is running out of people to blame for the mess they got themselves into. The problems began when the military government ordered the independent French Barkhane counter-terrorism force out of Mali and it was gone by the end of 2021. More recently Mali forced the 15,000 UN peacekeepers to start withdrawing. The government forced the French and African G5 peacekeepers out by the end of 2021. In 2017 Mali, Chad, Niger, the Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso agreed to form a new G5 counter-terrorism force that would work in cooperation with the similar but larger and better equipped French force that had been operating in the Sahel since 2014. The Sahel is the semi-desert area south of the Sahara Desert that covers much of northern Africa. Back then the French concluded that the Sahel was still troubled by thousands of Islamic terrorists and that this situation could not be taken care of quickly. In order to maintain pressure on the Islamic terrorists, France established a special force of 3,000 troops to fight Islamic terrorists throughout the Sahel. In practice this meant just part of the Sahel and included Mauritania, Mali, Niger, Chad and Burkina Faso. This French force grew to some 4,000 troops equipped with 200 armored vehicles, 20 transport and attack helicopters, six jet fighters and three large UAVs. There are also two twin engine C-160 air transports available for use within the Sahel. Supplies and reinforcements were regularly flown in using long-range transports (like the C-17) belonging to NATO allies (especially the U.S. and Britain). From the beginning the French force included a thousand French troops in Mali and the rest dispersed to other Sahel bases and ready to quickly move anywhere in the region where Islamic terrorist activity had been detected. The G5 nations already cooperated by sharing intelligence and providing quick access to their territory by the French force. In addition, the Americans provided satellite and UAV surveillance and other intel services (especially analysis and access to nearly all American data on Islamic terrorist activities in the region). Each of the G5 member countries contribute from 500 to 2,000 personnel and consist largely of special operations troops. Many of these troops have already worked with their French counterparts or been trained by French or American special operations advisors. All this was meant to keep the Islamic terrorists in the Sahel weak and disorganized. That worked until recently when the current Mali military regime ordered the French/G5 force out. AQIM (Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb), which has been around since 2007, was still in business as gangsters smuggling drugs and illegal migrants north and getting support from Islamic terrorists in Europe and the Persian Gulf. Islamic terrorists continue to carry out attacks in Mali, mainly the north and the G5 states to let the world know that Islamic terrorists are still present in the area. Another reminder has been the high casualty rate among peacekeepers in Mali. UN peacekeepers in Mali suffered 26 dead during 2016, the highest number of any UN peacekeeping operation and 90 percent of the UN peacekeeper deaths in 2016, even though the Mali force comprises less than 15 percent of all UN peacekeepers. The Mali peacekeepers have been in this situation for three years in a row. Over a hundred peacekeepers (mostly UN, but some French) have died in Mali since they arrived in 2013. This is the highest casualty rate of all current UN peacekeeping operations. Mali wanted to keep the 13,500 UN peacekeepers who maintain government control over the rebellious north. These peacekeepers are supplied by AU (African Union) nations and some of the African nations supplying these peacekeepers are withdrawing that support. A few percent of the peacekeeping force consists of troops from NATO nations that supply specialized services, especially transport helicopters and other services. People in areas where the peacekeepers are stationed warn that the security situation will deteriorate once the peacekeepers depart because the military government has not got the ability to maintain local security. Thats going to hurt the economy and cause more residents to flee the country. This is how corruption often ruins the local economy. Then again, elected officials were often corrupt. The pattern is that too many corrupt elected officials leads to rebellion or, more likely, a coup by the military, who tend to be no more effective than the people they replaced. There was growing opposition among UN members for maintaining the expensive peacekeeper force, which is the most dangerous the UN is currently involved with. The Mali peacekeeping operation costs about half a billion dollars a month and that is about the only foreign aid Mali gets now that the military government is in control. Most foreign aid was halted because the government was stealing so much of the aid. It is difficult to steal any of the money spent on peacekeepers but the government seems to be trying to do just that. Once the UN voted to maintain the Mali peacekeeping force for another year, the military government began harassing the peacekeepers and threatening to expel all of them. The peacekeepers serve on contracts (with the UN) for varying periods usually between two and six months. The withdrawal of the peacekeepers began on July 1st and will be completed by the end of 2023. Foreign aid is crucial in Africa because corruption limits the amount of money governments can spend on essential infrastructure, health or food aid programs. That means, when a coup takes place, the new military government finds itself isolated, criticized and denied most forms of foreign aid or cooperation. In Niger that meant the air space over Niger was closed after the recent coup there. Neighboring nations closed their borders with Niger. The coup leaders are isolated, criticized and left with few options other than abandoning their effort to make their version of local government work. Some military governments last for years by creating a plausible, to most of the locals, external threat. Their neighbors and foreign aid donors usually quickly denounce this fiction. The Niger military government will remain in power for a while. During the Cold War unelected governments could keep the aid coming by playing off the Western and communist donors against each other. After the Cold War ended in 1991, the only donors left were Western democracies. Dictatorships tend to be much less affluent and unable to provide much aid to anyone. Such an environment is common throughout Africa, especially where there are valuable raw materials that generate even more corruption. Niger does not have any valuable natural resources and must import more than it exports. This imbalance is made possible by lots of foreign aid. When there is a coup, the food, medical and similar aid generally continues unless the new government tries to steal the aid. The current Niger coup has shut down American military operations because air space has been closed by neighboring countries that do not permit legal aircraft operations into or out of Niger. This is what has put the two American air bases at risk of being shut down permanently. Before the coup, Niger was considered one of the more stable African countries foreign air forces could operate out of. There are about 2,000 American and French military personnel in Niger and the longer the coup continues the more likely those troops will be withdrawn. American UAV bases in Niger have been operational since 2019. The Niger government gave American and French UAVs operating in or over Niger permission to carry Hellfire missiles and other guided weapons inside Niger. For the most part this means U.S. and French MQ-9 Reaper UAVs operating from existing bases in Niger, Mali and Djibouti. France also operates manned combat aircraft from bases in Mali. EU peacekeepers also operate armed UAVs and helicopters in northern Mali. Initially there were only about 800 U.S. troops in Niger, most of them maintaining the aerial surveillance UAVs and other aircraft and helping train Niger troops. Then there was an incident where four American Special Forces soldiers were killed when the training exercise (a large patrol) they were supervising clashed with Islamic terrorists operating near the Mali border. Four of the Niger troops were killed as well and even more American and Niger troops were wounded. This led Niger to allow armed UAVs to operate in Niger. In the past there had not been many situations calling for rapid response by armed aircraft. The early Special Forces incident made it clear the situation had changed. Before that it was possible to get foreign aircraft to come and carry out an air strike but the process took time. The Niger and American troops were not expecting to encounter such a large force of Islamic terrorists and having armed UAVs on call would have made a big difference. The military coup in Niger has not shut down American UAV operations from the Niger airbases. The military governments in Mali, Niger and now Burkina Faso all want the American UAV operations to continue, as do nations in the area with elected governments and fewer problems with Islamic terrorists. The American UAVs track the operations of Islamic terrorists and provide aerial photos and videos to document what is happening on the ground. The return of military governments in Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso were the result of poor performance by elected, but very corrupt, governments. The military governments are not much of an improvement and their ability to deal with Islamic terrorists or local rebels is largely an illusion. Without the foreign peacekeepers Western specialists the Islamic terrorists run wild. Not all African nations are afflicted by this, but most are and Islamic terrorists thrive in that kind of environment. The current problem is largely the result of the success of French counter-terror operations in Mali a decade ago and the more recent defeat of Boko Haram in Nigeria. In both cases many of the surviving Islamic terrorists fled to Niger. This has been going on for some time and Niger has responded by allowing in more and more foreign assistance. The army and a small number of Russian (Wagner Group) military contractors have been unable, or unwilling, to carry on with that effort or prevent the Islamic terror groups from crossing the Niger border and advancing into Mali. Thes include an al Qaeda alliance called JNIM (Jamaah Nusrah al Islam wal Muslimin, or Group for the support of Islam and Moslems) and the more violent groups like ISGS (Islamic States in Greater Sahara), which is one of the two ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant) groups in the region. When they showed up in 2018, ISGS operated mainly in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, especially the area where the three borders met. Until recently those Islamic terrorists were a problem but now they are a real threat to the normally well defended capitals of all three countries. September 25, 2023: The military government that has ruled Mali since 2020 announced that promised elections in February 2024 were not taking place on time because of problems with organizing the voting. In June there was a national vote on a new constitution to replace the military government and the 30 percent of voters who participated approved the proposal. The new constitution is supposed to make possible a return of elected government in 2024 with another round of elections. Details of the new constitution indicate that the military will still have a lot of power. The return of elections is mainly about reviving foreign aid, which largely stopped because of the military government and expulsion of peacekeepers. Mali replaced the peacekeepers with a smaller force of Russian Wagner Group mercenaries. September 21, 2023: The Mali military government has canceled any festivities to celebrate Mali Independence Day on the 22nd. Its too dangerous and the army cannot provide sufficient security to prevent a catastrophic attack. September 16, 2023: In the Mali capital, representatives from Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso worked out details of forming AES (Alliance of Sahel States). The alliance is meant to improve security for all these nations. Currently Islamic terror groups are attacking all AES members. Burkina Faso is the worst hit, with about 40 percent of its territory controlled by Islamic terrorists. Mali and Niger fear the same fate will befall them. September 12, 2023: In the north (outside Gao and Timbuktu) the Tuareg CMA (Coordination of Azawad Movements) mobilized its armed members to join the fighting in the north. Over a decade ago, most Tuareg groups agreed to put aside their disagreements and form a unified group. CMA had long been a pro-government Tuareg coalition that had not resolved all their clan and family disputes. Azawad is the Tuareg term for their homeland in northern Mali and several other North African nations. The 2015 peace deal ended the Tuareg support for Islamic terrorism, but not the ethnic animosities. These local, and often ancient, disagreements and feuds are often not connected with the 2012 rebellion in the north nor the continuing Islamic terrorism problems, but they do cause security problems that interfere with rebuilding the economy and much else. The Tuareg peace deal was stalled for years because the black majority in the south did not want to even consider granting as much autonomy as the Tuaregs demanded. The two groups have always been at odds but were only united in the same country by the colonial French in the 19th century. Like most African countries that were formerly European colonies, dividing the post-colonial nation is not an acceptable option and the colonial borders are considered sacrosanct. The current mess began when France took swift action in January 2013 by leading a military operation to clear Islamic terrorists out of northern Mali. Aided by Chad and a growing number of other African peacekeeping contingents, this effort continues and is somewhat open ended. The French acted because in 2012 Tuareg tribal rebels (with the help of al Qaeda affiliated Islamic terrorists) in northern Mali chased out government forces and declared a separate Tuareg state. The Mali army mutinied because of a lack of support from the corrupt government down south and took control of the capital. The army is still in charge and not showing any signs of confirming the old peace deals with the CMA. So, the CMA will defend its people in the north. September 11, 2023: In the north (Timbuktu) the only commercial airline operating between Timbuktu and the rest of the country ceased operations in Timbuktu because of the increasing violence. Islamic terrorists have besieged Timbuktu and threatened the airport. Only some military air traffic uses the airport now that may soon cease if the Islamic terrorist siege force around the city advances. In Gao, the other major town in the north, a Belorussian Il-76 transport crashed while landing at the Gao airport. The large aircraft was delivering military supplies and personnel for Russian mercenaries in the area. September 7, 2023: In the north (near Gao) JNIM gunmen attacked river traffic and an army base, killing at least 49 civilians and 15 soldiers. The army claims to have killed 50 of the attackers but that is unlikely. Islamic terrorists tend to back off if they encounter armed resistance. JNIM tried to gather a large armed force and attack military bases or convoys at night, or just before dawn. They achieve surprise and these attacks usually work. The recent attack near Gao was only a partial success. With the peacekeepers withdrawing and the Mali soldiers intimidated, the Islamic terror groups are making the most of it and attacking more frequently. August 25, 2023: Northwest of Moscow, Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin and six of his associates died when the business jet they were on crashed, apparently because of an explosion on the aircraft. Prigozhin had long worked directly for Vladimir Putin but the two now had a number of disagreements. Putin was blamed for the crash, but there was no proof and probably never will be. Putin had recently told Russians working for Wagner in Mali that they were now working for the Russian government, not Wagner. Prigozhin refused to cooperate and Putin saw this as treason but had not made any official move to punish Prigozhin. Some Wagner Group members accused Putin of complicity in the death of Prigozhin. Many Russians agree but do not do so publicly. Putin expressed condolences to the families of those who died in the crash and noted he and Prigozhin had worked together since the 1990s and that Prigozhin and Wagner Group had fought well for Russia in Ukraine. Putin will continue to offer Wagner Group members jobs with the Russian military. Authorities appear to be in the process of attempting to apprehend the suspect in a two-day standoff. As of 7:45 p.m., a Star-Herald reporter on scene reported several flash bangs and gunshots. Officers According to scanner traffic, the situation is being "demobilized". The man is reported to have suffered minor injuries. The standoff began Wednesday and had lasted nearly 29 hours. A hostage had been released at about 1:30 p.m. The standoff began at about 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, when a Scottsbluff man, now identified as Bradley Garcia, 37, barricaded himself inside a residence at the end of 19th Street in Gering. Garcia has been in contact with law enforcement, confirmed by a Facebook live video that he shared online. The woman who had been hostage is also heard talking to law enforcement. The video has since been removed, and the Star-Herald is waiting for the standoff to be resolved before detailing contents of the video. She is reported to have been Garcias sister-in-law. Prior to the standoff, Overman released Wednesday, a Scotts Bluff County Sheriffs deputy had attempted to stop Garcia on Five Rocks Road for a traffic violation and Garcia refused to stop. A Gering Police officer also become involved in the pursuit, which ended as Garcia crashed his vehicle into a garage in the 2300 block of 19th Street in Gering and fled into the home. During the pursuit, Garcia allegedly fired at the deputy, but did not strike him or his vehicle. Once inside the home, Garcia took two juvenile girls and a woman hostage, but eventually, he allowed the two girls to leave the home. The woman was released on Wednesday afternoon; details about her condition or her release had not yet been made available as of publication. Law enforcement have remained stationed at the 19th Street and Kings Road area since about 3:30 p.m. Tuesday. As the standoff has continued, Overman released Garcia has allegedly fired at officers multiple times using more than one weapon. Officers have not fired at Garcia at anytime as of late Wednesday morning, according to the release. Star-Herald reporters at the scene heard gunshots Tuesday afternoon. Much of Wednesday morning, the scene remained quiet. However, early Wednesday afternoon, Star-Herald reporters at the scene observed explosions, heard loud pops and bangs, believed from comments from officers on the scene to be gases being released into the home. Authorities were also using drones to monitor the home and an ambulance and fire truck were among the vehicles pulling up to the scene. Throughout the night, vehicles from multiple law enforcement agencies, including a SWAT vehicle, remained positioned during the standoff at or near the intersection. By Wednesday, the response included specialized teams from the Nebraska State Patrol and the FBI, including a Hostage Rescue Team from Quantico, Virginia. Troy Brown, chief deputy with the Scotts Bluff County Sheriffs Department, told the Star-Herald that Garcia had reneged multiple times in negotiations on plans to surrender or release the woman. Were hoping he wears down and decides enough is enough, she gets to come out and he walks out, Brown said late Wednesday morning. Among the apparatus at the scene has been armored vehicles used by the Nebraska State Patrol, the Scotts Bluff County SWAT team and a tactical vehicle used by the Alliance Police Department. At some points, reporters have estimated as many as 40 officers on scene. On Wednesday, law enforcement officers used Northfield Church to stage during the standoff, explaining some of the lack of activity at the scene. Garcia had not yet been reported to have surrendered or the standoff resolved. Throughout the entirety of the event, streets in the area have been closed by law enforcement or firefighters. Neighbors who live in the area have been allowed to walk to and from their homes when it is safe to do so, reporters advise. The standoff has also effected schools in the community. Shortly after law enforcement reported shots fired Tuesday, school officials immediately put all schools in Gering on lockdown, which was then narrowed to Gering High School and Northfield at about 3:38 p.m. At about 5:04 p.m., Gering police and emergency responders started a controlled release of students from Gering High School. A controlled release at Northfield Elementary and at other schools in the district had occurred earlier. By 6:09 p.m., all students had been released from schools and all activities and other events were cancelled. On Wednesday morning, Gering Public Schools announced it was cancelling schools for the day out of an abundance of caution. Visit starherald.com for more on this story as it develops. PHOTOS: At the scene of Gering standoff Authorities have apprehended the suspect in a two-day standoff. At of 7:45 p.m., a Star-Herald reporter on scene reported several flash bangs and gunshots. Officers were heard shooting commands and soon after, scanner traffic indicated the suspect, Bradley Garcia, had been taken into custody. According to scanner traffic, the situation is being "demobilized". The man is reported to have suffered minor injuries and is being transported to Regional West Medical Center by ambulance. The standoff began Tuesday and had lasted nearly 29 hours. A hostage had been released at about 1:30 p.m. The standoff began at about 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, when a Scottsbluff man, identified Garcia, 37, barricaded himself inside a residence at the end of 19th Street in Gering. Garcia has been in contact with law enforcement, confirmed by a Facebook live video that he shared online. The woman who had been hostage is also heard talking to law enforcement. The video has since been removed, and the Star-Herald is waiting for the standoff to be resolved before detailing contents of the video. She is reported to have been Garcias sister-in-law. Prior to the standoff, Overman released Wednesday, a Scotts Bluff County Sheriffs deputy had attempted to stop Garcia on Five Rocks Road for a traffic violation and Garcia refused to stop. A Gering Police officer also become involved in the pursuit, which ended as Garcia crashed his vehicle into a garage in the 2300 block of 19th Street in Gering and fled into the home. During the pursuit, Garcia allegedly fired at the deputy, but did not strike him or his vehicle. Once inside the home, Garcia took two juvenile girls and a woman hostage, but eventually, he allowed the two girls to leave the home. The woman was released on Wednesday afternoon; details about her condition or her release had not yet been made available as of publication. Law enforcement have remained stationed at the 19th Street and Kings Road area since about 3:30 p.m. Tuesday. As the standoff has continued, Overman released Garcia has allegedly fired at officers multiple times using more than one weapon. Officers have not fired at Garcia at anytime as of late Wednesday morning, according to the release. Star-Herald reporters at the scene heard gunshots Tuesday afternoon. Much of Wednesday morning, the scene remained quiet. However, early Wednesday afternoon, Star-Herald reporters at the scene observed explosions, heard loud pops and bangs, believed from comments from officers on the scene to be gases being released into the home. Authorities were also using drones to monitor the home and an ambulance and fire truck were among the vehicles pulling up to the scene. Throughout the night, vehicles from multiple law enforcement agencies, including a SWAT vehicle, remained positioned during the standoff at or near the intersection. By Wednesday, the response included specialized teams from the Nebraska State Patrol and the FBI, including a Hostage Rescue Team from Quantico, Virginia. Troy Brown, chief deputy with the Scotts Bluff County Sheriffs Department, told the Star-Herald that Garcia had reneged multiple times in negotiations on plans to surrender or release the woman. Were hoping he wears down and decides enough is enough, she gets to come out and he walks out, Brown said late Wednesday morning. Among the apparatus at the scene has been armored vehicles used by the Nebraska State Patrol, the Scotts Bluff County SWAT team and a tactical vehicle used by the Alliance Police Department. At some points, reporters have estimated as many as 40 officers on scene. On Wednesday, law enforcement officers used Northfield Church to stage during the standoff, explaining some of the lack of activity at the scene. Garcia had not yet been reported to have surrendered or the standoff resolved. Throughout the entirety of the event, streets in the area have been closed by law enforcement or firefighters. Neighbors who live in the area have been allowed to walk to and from their homes when it is safe to do so, reporters advise. The standoff has also effected schools in the community. Shortly after law enforcement reported shots fired Tuesday, school officials immediately put all schools in Gering on lockdown, which was then narrowed to Gering High School and Northfield at about 3:38 p.m. At about 5:04 p.m., Gering police and emergency responders started a controlled release of students from Gering High School. A controlled release at Northfield Elementary and at other schools in the district had occurred earlier. By 6:09 p.m., all students had been released from schools and all activities and other events were cancelled. On Wednesday morning, Gering Public Schools announced it was cancelling schools for the day out of an abundance of caution. After the conclusion of the standoff, Gering schools issued a release that classes would resume as normal Thursday. PHOTOS: At the scene of Gering standoff Gov. Jim Pillen announced Wednesday that Nebraska will extend Medicaid coverage for mothers up to 12 months after giving birth. He said the change, which takes effect Jan. 1, is part of the states commitment to the health and well-being of mothers and children. Nebraska currently provides only 60 days of postpartum coverage. This decision ensures that nearly 5,000 mothers across our state will maintain access to a comprehensive range of behavioral and physical health services, Pillen said. Our children are the future of this state, and we are dedicated to providing the strongest possible support system to help them thrive, he said. I am confident that this extension will provide Nebraska mothers with the resources they need to nurture and raise their children. The announcement comes less than four months after Nebraska lawmakers passed a bill requiring the state to offer longer postpartum coverage. Legislative Bill 227 required coverage for at least six months. State Sen. Anna Wishart of Lincoln, who introduced the extended postpartum coverage bill, called the governors announcement wonderful news. Her bill originally called for 12 months of coverage but was amended down to help win votes. With this decision, Nebraska will become a leading state in providing a full year of health care to lower-income new mothers and their babies and we will see benefits of this policy change literally for generations to come, she said. Nebraska Medicaid covers about 35% of all births across the state and plays a vital role in ensuring access to health care services for mothers and babies. Lack of access to care and financial resources are some of the most significant contributing factors to maternal mortality. Pregnant and postpartum women can qualify for Medicaid at higher income levels than other adults. In Nebraska, women are eligible for pregnant and postpartum coverage with incomes up to 194% of the federal poverty level. Thats $2,358 per month for a household of one or $4,850 for a household of four. Supporters of Wisharts bill argued that extended postpartum coverage is important for women who suffer pregnancy complications or have chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes. It also helps those who develop depression or serious diseases like mastitis. Dr. Ann Anderson Berry, a neonatologist at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, testified at the bills hearing that lack of care for the mother can affect the health and well-being of her newborn infant, as well as other family members. She said that when mothers get care, their children are more likely to get well-child visits, which are key in ensuring healthy development of children. Keven Bagley, the state Medicaid director, said the 12-month postpartum extension represents a giant leap forward in ensuring that mothers have access to the care and support they need during a crucial period in their lives. Nebraska Medicaid is working with advocates, health care providers and others across the state to ensure that the change is implemented smoothly and addresses the diverse needs of all mothers in the state. The Jobs for Virginia Graduates (JVG) program is a division of Jobs for Americas Graduates (JAG), which assists seniors in establishing careers after high school. A JVG Specialist can be found at each of the three county high schools, thanks to a recent grant, the third of its kind submitted by Dr. Becki James of the Wythe County School Board. When Quinton Hensley took on the job as JVG Specialist in January 2021, he was working at all three schools. A second JVG grant brought another JVG Specialist on board for the 2022-2023 school year at Rural Retreat, leaving Hensley at both George Wythe and Fort Chiswell High Schools. The latest grant placed Hensley solely at George Wythe, hiring Kyle Thomas as JVG Specialist for Fort Chiswell, and Ben Caudill as JVG Specialist at Rural Retreat High School. This year, Hensley pulls approximately forty students out of class every Tuesday morning for a half-hour of career success workshops. Hensley also arranges for job shadowing and internships. The Student Career Association also involves students in community service projects such as serving meals at the pay-what-you-can Open Door Cafe in Wytheville. He also hopes to involve students with such local charities as The United Way of Wythe County, the Agape Food Pantry and Habitat for Humanity. Its a really good program, Hensley said. Im there to not only help students graduate, but to help ensure their future success. There is no career path that is off-limits. Hensley has helped previous students gain internships to become everything from funeral directors, veterinarians, writers, artists, dentists, and various other medical professionals, just to name a few. There is nothing off the books, Hensley noted. There are more opportunities in Wythe County than people may realize. The Wythe County Public Schools JVG program also received an award for accomplishing all six standards for achievement required by JAG at their national conference this past year. Hensley added that if a students career path required collegiate work, it is his job to help locate the best program for them, as well as assisting in acquiring scholarships toward their desired studies. Hensley also maintains contact with his students for a year following graduation to ensure they have all the help they need in establishing a post-academic career in their chosen field. Some students still may need help with making job connections or getting interviews lined up, he explained. Its my job to help them get whatever they need in order to have a career doing whatever they love. Hensley explained that his program is designed to help all students. Students can sign up to be in the program or by simply attending the weekly meetings. Hensley credited Wythe County Technology Center Principal Summer Stone, and Wythe County Public Schools Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Becki James, as being integral to the success of the JVG program. He also commended George Wythe High School Principal Kim Ingo, Assistant Principal Jason Morris (a former Carroll County JVG Specialist), and guidance counselors Melissa Dalton, and my personal dear friend Greg Taylor, for being essential in helping keep the JVG program afloat. Our goal this year is to do more community service, Hensley offered. We serve at Open Door Cafe every third Wednesday and meet every Tuesday morning from 10:50-11:35. In collaboration with Radford University, George Wythe JVG students will have the opportunity to compete in a group business project competition, the winners of which will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to St. Louis, MO to compete in JAGs National Career Development Conference in March. Students from four regional schools will submit a written plan to the leadership of the business department at Radford University. The winning team will be flown to St. Louis, where groups can compete in different types of competitions. Hensley begins each year by asking students whether or not they know their desired career path. About half typically respond to the affirmative. He then follows up with a series of surveys and personality tests, which provide a list of suggested careers based on individual character traits. If a student thinks he or she knows the field in which they want to work, Hensley explained. Its just as important for them to discover what they dont like. That way, they can scratch it off their list and continue searching for their most suitable career path. Hensley also added that he wants each of his students to be able to maintain a job at which they dont feel like theyre going to work every day. He wants them to get paid for doing what they love. I want to help them find their passion, he asserted. Then, I want to help them turn their passion into a lifelong career. A retired marketing education teacher and Asheville, NC native, Hensley had plans of moving to bigger cities within five years of coming to Wytheville. Staying in Wythe County is the best decision I ever made, he remarked in closing. It is a wonderful community with many great opportunities to live a happy life and enjoy a successful career. Even before the Russian invasion in 2022, the Ukrainian military encouraged innovation and improvisation by manufacturers as well as the troops themselves. This has long been a Ukrainian custom and, in the war against the Russian invaders, these improvisations were often decisive in halting or slowing down Russian operations. All this innovation was seen in use from the very beginning of the Russian invasion. The Russians encountered novel and unexpected anti-tank weapons and tactics that halted the initial advance to take the capital Kyiv. The Russians lost most of their most modern tanks using that initial attack and have yet to recover because it took Russia over a decade to build those tanks. Economic sanctions imposed on Russia because of their attack on Ukraine mean Russia cannot build new tanks as quickly they could before the war, and those they can build are much more expensive and less effective. That means they cannot replace current losses (which are lesser than the tank massacre they suffered in the wars first year) and have had to pull 1960s T-62s out of storage, refurbish them and send them to war. This was more desperation than innovation. Many Ukrainian innovations involve the use of locally developed and built UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles). Before the war there was a UAV tinkering and development movement that became a military asset once Russia invaded. What made Ukrainian UAVs particularly effective is that there was no standardization as was the case in Russia and many other nations that are major military powers. This meant Russia had a difficult time detecting, let alone intercepting, the constantly growing multiple types of increasingly effective Ukrainian UAVs. This continues to be a major problem for the Russians, who regularly suffer surprise attacks by Ukrainian weapons, which are often UVs. One example of why Ukrainian UAVs are so successful against the is because Ukrainian UAVs come in a multitude of shapes, sizes and electronics. There are no standard radio frequencies used by Ukrainian UAVs, which makes them difficult to jam. Thats why so many Russian electronic jammers are destroyed by Ukrainian UAVs. The multiple design features of Ukrainian UAVs makes it possible for Ukraine to attack targets deep inside Russia, although some of those attacks are carried out by Ukrainian agents inside. There were always a lot of Ukrainians living in Russia and many of them got in touch with the Ukrainian military once the war started and volunteered to help out from inside Russia. There was a similar situation with Russians living in Ukraine. Most of these Russians remained loyal to Ukraine because the Russians were not invading Ukraine in order to improve the lives of people living in Ukraine. As a result of this, there are a growing number of unexpected attacks or acts of sabotage inside Russia. Ukraine makes the most of this capability by sometimes having operatives inside Russia use commercial UAVs to carry out attacks on Russian military or government targets. This is one form of Ukrainian UAV innovation that Russia never expected to suffer from. Ayman Safadi has confirmed an alarming increase in drug smuggling operations from Syria to Jordan, according to Baladi News. Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi has confirmed an alarming increase in drug smuggling operations from Syria to Jordan following the Arab normalization talks held in Jeddah and Amman with the Syrian regime. Safadi, speaking at the Middle East and North Africa Forum on Wednesday on the Saudi channel Asharq, emphasized Jordans commitment to safeguarding its interests, particularly in countering drug trafficking. He underscored that given the ongoing conflicts and territorial instability within Syria for the past 12 years, the Syrian regime lacks control over the entirety of its territory. The Foreign Minister expressed grave concern over the highly organized nature of drug trafficking operations, citing the use of advanced technology by drug traffickers, including drones and night vision goggles. He stated, We are confronted with a significant challenge. Safadi acknowledged the tireless efforts of Jordans armed forces and security agencies to secure the border and prevent drug smuggling into the country. However, he acknowledged the reality that despite their best efforts, a portion of smuggling attempts still succeed, posing a serious threat to national security. He vowed to take decisive action to address this issue. In July of the same year, the joint committee established between Jordan and the Assad regime to cooperate in combatting drug smuggling across the Syrian border convened its inaugural meeting. This committee was established in alignment with the outcomes of the Amman consultative meeting held on May 1st, 2023. Over the past several years, Jordan has witnessed the smuggling of a substantial quantity of narcotic pills originating from Syria. Iranian militias and the Fourth Division of the Syrian regimes forces control the Syrian side of the border and are directly involved in these smuggling operations. The Kingdom asserts that 85 percent of the seized drugs are intended for export, primarily to Saudi Arabia and Gulf countries, exacerbating the urgency of addressing this issue. 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. Russian Deputy FM Sergey Vershinin engaged in discussions with the United Nations Special Envoy to Syria, Geir Pedersen, concerning the Syrian crisis, according to Shaam Network. The Russian Foreign Ministry has announced talks between Russia and the United Nations regarding the resolution of the Syrian crisis. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin engaged in discussions with the United Nations Special Envoy to Syria, Geir Pedersen, concerning the Syrian crisis. The ministrys statement reads, On September 25th, during the 78th session of the United Nations General Assemblys high-level week, Vershinin met with Pedersen. They conducted a comprehensive review of the issues associated with the Syrian crisis settlement, as outlined in the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254 that authorizes the United Nations Special Envoy to Syria. Pedersen, in turn, provided detailed information about his step-for-step initiative, interactions with relevant parties, and matters pertaining to an upcoming briefing scheduled for September 27 during the UN Security Council session on Syria, as reported by the ministry. During a UN Security Council meeting on the situation in Syria, Pedersen disclosed the possibility of convening a new session of the Syrian Constitutional Committee before the conclusion of 2023. He stated, I am currently engaged in consultations with the aim of initiating calls for the committees resumption before the end of this year. Pedersen further noted, Syrian parties have communicated their desire for the Constitutional Committee to continue its work. Representatives from the Astana format, the Arab Contact Group, and Western capitals have expressed their support for its resumption. He emphasized his belief in the potential for progress and his commitment to strengthening the role of Syrians in the process, free from external interference or agendas. However, sources within the Syrian Negotiation Commission expressed skepticism about UN envoy Pedersens efforts, asserting that he lacks both an actionable plan and the means to exert pressure on the Syrian regime. They voiced their disappointment with the fruitlessness of Pedersens attempts to restart meetings of the Syrian Constitutional Committee, attributing this impasse to the absence of a necessary mechanism in Damascus to drive the political process forwardan aspect they believe Pedersen cannot accomplish. The sources pointed out that Pedersens recent visit to Damascus aimed to demonstrate his readiness for consultations following his meeting with the opposition in Geneva the previous week. Regrettably, they found no substantial developments in Pedersens initiative and expressed low expectations for progress in the political process. They called for the establishment of a clear timetable and the application of Arab, regional, and international pressure to bring about meaningful change. 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. Ambassador Sabbagh asserted that the United States has inflicted significant damage on Syria's oil sector, al-Watan writes. On September 28th, 2023, Syrias Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Bassam Sabbagh, voiced strong criticism of the United States and certain other permanent members of the Security Council for their ongoing and blatant violations against the Syrian people. Ambassador Sabbagh made these remarks during a session of the United Nations Security Council, where he emphasized the importance of upholding the principles of the UN Charter and defending international law. Ambassador Sabbagh specifically pointed to the United States as a perpetrator of these violations, accusing it of attempting to evade responsibility for the chaos and destruction its policies have caused not only in the region but also around the world. He highlighted the numerous challenges that Syria has faced over the years, including terrorism, the unauthorized presence of US and Turkish military forces, repeated acts of aggression by Israel, interference in Syrias internal affairs, economic embargoes, and unilateral coercive measures. Ambassador Sabbagh argued that these challenges represent flagrant violations of the UN Charter, international law, and international humanitarian law. They have also led to instability in Syria and the broader region. Moreover, Ambassador Sabbagh asserted that the United States has inflicted significant damage on Syrias oil sector, amounting to an estimated $115 billion in losses. He called for the US to be held accountable and to provide compensation for this damage. He also pointed out that European allies of the US continue to impose coercive measures on critical sectors such as food, health, energy, and transport, which have resulted in a humanitarian and economic catastrophe. Regarding the issue of refugees, Ambassador Sabbagh stated that Syria has taken the necessary steps and decisions to facilitate their return. Syria is cooperating with the High Commissioner for Refugees and the Arab Contact Group to make this possible. He emphasized Syrias willingness to welcome back every Syrian refugee who was forced to leave the country due to terrorist groups. Ambassador Sabbagh urged Western countries to contribute to creating suitable conditions for refugees return, including supporting early recovery projects and funding efforts to clear mines and explosive remnants. He criticized the politicization of this humanitarian issue for narrow political purposes. 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. Remarks by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Political and Humanitarian Situations in Syria Thank you, Mr. President. And thank you, Special Envoy Pedersen for your briefing, and for your continued efforts to attain a sustainable political solution in Syria, including through your diplomacy during High-Level Week. I also welcome the helpful update from Ms. Wosorno. I also want to thank Ms. Jarbawi for her sobering briefing and for everything you and the IRC are doing to expand humanitarian access in Syria. Colleagues, the United States welcomes the resumption of UN humanitarian assistance convoys through the Bab al-Hawa crossing a crucial access point that allows aid to reach millions of vulnerable Syrians. If implemented, the understanding Under-Secretary-General Griffiths and his team were able to reach with parties on the ground in northwest Syria and with Damascus will maintain this lifeline. But we are mindful of the regimes decades-long history of manipulating humanitarian assistance to all areas of Syria, including its ongoing denial of UN access to the Rukban displacement site. We are also concerned the regime will try to impose new conditions on the UN in the future, especially in the fall and winter, when consent for the three crossings will need to be renewed, and when humanitarian needs will be at their greatest. This Council must give the UN the support it needs to resist pressure by the Assad regime and maintain unhindered access to all Syrians for as long as needed. The Syrian people are counting on us in their time of immense need. And as the single largest humanitarian donor to the Syrian response effort, the United States supports aid through all modalities to reach Syrians in need including cross-border and cross-line aid to all areas of Syria. Colleagues, I want to underscore the importance of continued reporting to this Council on humanitarian and political developments inside Syria, in line with Resolution 2139. On the political front, we are monitoring reports about popular protests in Syria, and we continue to support the Syrian peoples call for peace, dignity, security, and justice. The United States also supports the Syrian peoples ability to exercise the rights of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression. The renewed protests in Syria underscore the need for a Syrian-led political solution. And we continue to advocate that implementing Resolution 2254 remains the only viable path to ending the conflict. To that end, we urge the Syrian regime to engage meaningfully in the political process called for in Resolution 2254 by returning to the Constitutional Committee, which has not met in over a year. While simply holding another meeting of the Constitutional Committee will not end the conflict, we believe the regimes participation would be an important signal of its intent to return to the political process. And U.S. sanctions will remain in place until, at minimum, there is concrete, measurable progress toward a political solution. There is no shortage of conflicts and crises on the Councils agenda, but we must not let Syria fall to the wayside. Not as humanitarian needs continue to spike; not as peace efforts continue to stall. When I traveled to the border of Turkiye and Syria last year, a Syrian refugee told me that she was worried the world would forget about the plight of her people. And I told her the United States would not let that happen. And this Council must send the same message to all Syrian people. Thank you, Mr. President. Access to schools and family wage jobs, healthy wildlife populations, trails through towering evergreens, clean air, clean water, an abundance of fish, and wood processed in local mills. This is the Pinchot Partners goal for the year 2103. In 2003, this vision of a multi-use Gifford Pinchot National Forest that benefits the environment and the economy seemed unattainable for most. Protections for the old growth forests especially for habitat preservation for the Northern spotted owl, a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act formed contentions between groups rallying for conservation and the timber industry and effectively shut down timber production in the Gifford Pinchot, the partners website states. For more than a decade earlier Save a logger, eat an owl bumper stickers had been plastered across cars, sawmills and bars in Western Washington. With the rapid decline in timber and U.S. Forest Service jobs forcing families elsewhere, closure of the Packwood Elementary School was imminent. The Gifford Pinchot Task Force, which changed its name to Cascade Forest Conservancy in 2016, called a meeting of these warring stakeholders in early 2003. Were disappointed that the Forest Services budget continues to decline. Economic needs havent been met; tourism needs havent been met, John Squires, a founding member of the Pinchot Partners, told The Chronicle in 2003, later adding, All sides are coming to the realization that the system we have now isnt working to the advantage of anybody. On Thursday night, in the now-tourist-flooded town of Packwood, inside a new, locally owned brewery, Squires and two other founding members, Randle resident Bill Little and Thurston-Lewis-Mason Counties Labor Council President Bob Guenther, were honored for 20 dedicated years on the board of the organization that continues to find common ground amid conflict. The aptly named Pinchot Partners have board members from the Cascade Forest Conservancy, the communities of Packwood and Randle, the timber industry, the Forest Service and the Cowlitz Indian Tribe. In 20 years advocating each for often-conflicting interests, theyve proved Squires correct. They need compromise to move forward. Executive Director Janene Ritchie was proud to share a list of wins in a Thursday night presentation as the group celebrated its anniversary at Longmire Springs Brewing. She spoke of the collaboratives early years working with local contractors to examine trees across nearly 50,000 low-elevation acres of the forest to understand restoration needs and lay out timber sales. The organizations advocacy has resulted in over 30 million board feet of lumber going straight to local mills, Ritchie said. Its representatives work on interdisciplinary committees for planning and executing U.S. Forest Service initiatives, organize huckleberry restoration, advocate for road repair grants, and decrease the number of lawsuits that get filed against the Gifford Pinchot. Though they celebrated the nonprofits 20-year anniversary last week, the groups sights are still set on 2103. One of the Pinchot Partners current projects illustrates why: Some of the trees that benefit from the organizations work toward a healthier forest will long outlive each of the celebrations guests. Rounds from a 300-year-old Douglas fir tree felled in 2019 will be donated to every high school across Lewis County as a visualization of a historical timeline. One of the rounds was on display on Thursday. Born in 1720, the tree predates the name Douglas fir by about 100 years. The project has been headed by Guenther and designed by Winlock resident Denny Larson over several hundred hours, Guenther said. I didnt do well in school. If I would have had that, Larson said, pointing to the Douglas fir round on Thursday, rather than a history book, I would have been more excited. Because every one of us in this room, every one of us, is in that log. And anybody born before 2020 is in that log with George Washington, Abe Lincoln. Clear back when. Its amazing and I hope that will connect. Maybe a few kids will join the partners and help us keep what we have. Washingtons U.S. Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell have joined a growing chorus of Senate Democrats calling for Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., to resign amid federal corruption charges. In a statement Wednesday morning, Murray called the charges against Menendez extremely serious and the details deeply disturbing. While saying Menendez has the right to defend himself in court, Murray said, I believe he should step down and focus on his legal defense. If Menendez refuses, Murray added, I encourage the Senate Ethics Committee to open an investigation into this, separate from the ongoing criminal case. Cantwell, in a statement Wednesday, also called the indictment shocking and disturbing and said while everyone deserves their day in court, I dont believe anyone under such a damning indictment can effectively serve, and I urge Senator Menendez to step aside. The statements add to those of numerous other prominent Democrats, including New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., who have said Menendez should resign. Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pennsylvania, was the first senator to call for Menendezs resignation. Menendez and his wife were charged last week in a sweeping bribery case, with federal prosecutors accusing them of accepting cash, gold and a luxury car in exchange for favors including aiding the government of Egypt and interfering in three criminal cases. Federal agents who searched his home found more than $480,000 in cash stashed in envelopes, clothing and a safe, and gold bars worth more than $100,000, according to prosecutors. Menendez has denied the charges, saying the cash and gold in his house were from his legitimate personal savings and kept there for emergencies. While refusing to resign from the Senate, Menendez stepped down as chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee until the criminal charges are resolved. Senate Democratic caucus rules require members to give up leadership positions if charged with felonies, but allow them to resume those duties if cleared. Its the second time Menendez has faced federal bribery charges. A jury deadlocked on the previous charges in 2017, leading prosecutors to drop the case. Thumbs up: Electrifying the Port The Port of Longview is considering a big investment. Namely, they have a draft plan on their desk to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by switching to hybrid and electric equipment. Its still under consideration and nothing is finalized yet. But we think its a plan they should strongly consider adopting. Reducing emissions is an admirable goal on its own. Climate advocate Diane Dick pointed out that ships and railways are the two largest sources of emissions related to the port, and while that might make it easy to say that whatever the port does will be offset by its tenants, that doesnt make it futile. A reduced amount of CO2 is still less greenhouse gas emission as much as 80%, if predictions are accurate. Moving away from traditional fossil fuels to alternative fuels and electric motors also looks like a smart financial move. While its not possible to completely eliminate the need for diesel in a port setting, cutting down on the amount of motors using fuel instead of electricity can also reduce overall energy spending. Like we said, its the beginning of an idea right now, nothing more. But it does show promise. Thumbs down: Tire dumping Theres not much that looks more unsightly than seeing some tires dumped on the side of a road. Not that any kind of litter is good, but big black tires draw attention to themselves. Theyre also harder to dispose of than an old can or shopping bag. We know it can be a pain to get rid of old tires, but just dumping them on the side of the road isnt an option. Besides the aesthetic reasons, tires are also a hazard in the event of a fire, where they give off toxic smoke. According to Gary Fredricks, an associate professor at WSU, they can even attract mosquitoes carrying West Nile. Thats why we need more events like the free tire disposal event from last week. The county reports about 8,200 tires were collected during the one-day event. Until the programs recent resumption, it had been on hold since 2018, first due to a lack of funding and then the COVID-19 pandemic. Were glad that the Washington Legislature secured additional money for tire disposal. Its a good example of spending money to provide a useful service to people. But we need to make sure that we keep this going. If we have to wait another five years, it will be far too long. Thumbs up: Fires winding down Once numbering in the 40s, the Cowlitz Complex of fires in Gifford Pinchot National Forest is now down to just three active fires. Of the original 43, 28 fires are fully extinguished. Obviously, thats some great news. It would be easy to jump to conclusions and say this shift in fortune came because of this years sudden shift to cold, wet weather. But that is not the case. Hundreds of people, including the 265 that were fighting the fires last week, worked together to make this happen. Firefighters worked tirelessly, day and night, to push back on fires, minimizing their spread and channeling them away from people and wildlife. A fortunate break in the weather may make their jobs easier, but when a spark turns into a full-blown wildfire, its the work of these people that contains and extinguishes it. Thumbs up: Green River protection The Green River is one of those waterways that is special. Not only is it one of the most pristine rivers in Washington, its also closely tied to two symbols of the region: salmon and Mount St. Helens. Thats why the states Department of Ecology is considering granting Green River the designation of outstanding resource water. That designation comes with some higher standards for protecting its water quality, and we feel the river deserves as much protection as we can give it. Besides the simple fact that it is the rare river that has gone mostly unaltered by humans, Green River is also key to salmon conservation. As a habitat for wild steelhead, it helps maintain genetic diversity in the species. Theres a great deal of effort going into the restoration of salmon habitat, and thats always welcome. But even better than restoring old habitats is preserving that habitat so it doesnt need restoration. Theres also still research to do. Like much of the area around Mount St. Helens, Green River has secrets that we are still unravelling, even more than four decades later. Research on the site is still ongoing, and protecting the river also preserves the opportunity for science. The Green River is, as the designation suggests, outstanding. Protecting it will help keep it that way. Over the last 12 months, X (formerly Twitter) has undergone a multitude of changes. Elon Musk's acquisition of the microblogging platform has spurred controversy from day 1, with people calling measures such as the removal of verification, and temporarily limiting tweet views draconian. After managing the company as the CEO for a while, Musk appointed Linda Yaccarino as his successor. This change hasn't really moved people's opinions about the Musk-owned company, as its rival Threads soared in popularity as soon as it was launched by Meta. Despite this, X could turn profitable next year and most of its top advertisers are back, according to the CEO. On profits and advertisers According to a report by The Verge, at the Code Conference 2023, CNBC's Senior Media & Tech Correspondent Julia Boorstin was joined by X CEO Linda Yaccarino for a chat. Yaccarino revealed that from the perspective of operating cash flow, X is just about break even. However, it could even turn profitable next year, as the CEO mentioned, We'll be turning a profit. Yaccarino was also asked about the advertisers that left the platform in the past. She revealed that 90 percent of all the top 100 advertisers have now returned to X, with 1500 returning in the last 12 weeks. What about charging users? In a conversation with the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu last week, Elon Musk highlighted the problem of bots on X, and how it would be moving to a small monthly payment which all users would have to pay to access the platform. At Code Conference 2023, Yaccarino was asked about the same by the CNBC correspondent although she side-stepped the question. Did he say we were moving to it specifically, or did he say that's the plan?, Yaccarino said. Boorstin then asked whether this move was actually discussed before Musk revealed it, to which Yaccarino replied, We talk about everything. On Musk and Anti-Defamation League Musk has yet again hit the headlines recently as he blamed the Anti Defamation League (ADL), a non-profit organization that combats antisemitism and extremism, for a 60 percent decline in revenue, claiming that it was pushing advertisers away from the platform. Musk also announced that he would file a defamation lawsuit against the very organization that combats the issue. In an X post on September 5, Musk announced, To clear our platform's name on the matter of anti-Semitism, it looks like we have no choice but to file a defamation lawsuit against the Anti-Defamation League oh the irony! Linda Yaccarino was asked about this dispute, to which she replied, I wish that would be different. We're looking into that. One more thing! We are now on WhatsApp Channels! Follow us there so you never miss any update from the world of technology. To follow the HT Tech channel on WhatsApp, click here to join now! Nokia launched an array of industrial 5G devices to keep enterprise teams and public safety workers safe, connected and informed over private wireless networks in hazardous and industrial environments such as ports, mines, chemical plants and offshore oil platforms. The company is introducing new ruggedized 5G handhelds, a new industrial device consumption model, and enhancements to worker and device related applications. By adding these new assets to Nokias end-to-end platform for industrial digitalization, along with its private wireless and edge applications, the company reinforces its industry leadership with a market leading portfolio and strengthens its commitment to help industrial enterprises navigate their digital transformation journeys, ensuring their operations are more safe, productive and efficient. The new Nokia Industrial devices are suitable for all types of enterprises and include a ruggedized handheld supporting public safety teams communicating over Band 68. The US-manufactured handheld device has a long lifecycle and is IP 68-rated for operation in remote or harsh environments. Dual-SIM, including flexibility adding eSIM, ensures the most reliable connectivity and simplified management, while an exchangeable battery allows shift workers to share devices in the field. Teams can customize keys to define a dedicated push-to-talk button, while other large buttons and optional accessories, including remote speaker microphones and earpieces enabling push-to-talk, allow workers to communicate clearly and safely without removing safety equipment like helmets and gloves. Nokia is also expanding the portfolio of ruggedized 5G handhelds with EX-rated phones all with the same technical platform. The company has partnered with i.safe MOBILE GmbH, world market leader for explosion-proof mobile devices and solutions. Two i.safe MOBILE 5G handhelds are now part of the Nokia end-to-end solution for private wireless infrastructures. They have been rigorously tested and certified* to meet the connectivity demands of sectors such as oil and gas, mining and chemical manufacturers. They can be safely used in hazardous areas (ATEX Zone 1) or further away (ATEX Zone 2) where flammable atmosphere is not likely but could occur for a short time. These handhelds offered by Nokia, support all necessary radio frequency bands, have all required certifications, and can thus be used by companies worldwide.* Nokia will also offer its managed ruggedized 5G industrial devices deployed over Nokia Digital Automation Cloud (DAC) in a subscription-based as-a-Service (aaS) model. Application bundles include Nokia Industrial device management, which allows administrators to apply group policies and scale management to their entire device fleet, Nokia Team Comms and Nokia Network Digital Twin. This model allows enterprises to move asset costs from capital to operating expenses and more easily connect workers and manage the fleet of industrial devices in their plants. Moving forward, Nokia will continue to add more types of devices to the managed aaS model. The updated Nokia Team Comms (NTC) 23 application running on Nokia Mission Critical Industrial Edge (MXIE) now aligns to the 3GPP defined MCS (Mission Critical Services) standard. NTC will address the needs of mission-critical push-to-talk (MCPTT), providing communication capabilities usually only available in more complex and expensive solutions for workers in harsh environments. NTC allows users to stream video or establish voice calls with a group of users or a single user to gain the greatest context about any situation. The new version will allow administrators to configure changes to their device fleet via a newly built web portal. Deployed on MXIE residing on-premises, Nokia Team Comms ensures data remains within the teams that use it. It works without internet connectivity and scales from small number of users to large groups. Nokia is also extending the capabilities of Nokia Network Digital Twin (NDT) to all Android devices, allowing coverage and performance data for Wi-Fi, private and public cellular networks to be automatically collected in real time and processed on Nokia MXIE. Enterprises in dynamic environments, such as ports, factories or mines, can see how changes in their operations impact network performance and use this insight to inform future network planning and use case decisions. Martin Haaf, CEO of i.safe MOBILE comments: Through this partnership, we are pleased to support Nokia with our decades of expertise in explosion-proof mobile devices with our latest 5G developments. The combination of our devices with Nokias solutions offers companies a great added value on their digitalization journey. Martin Beltrop, Head of Industrial Devices, Enterprise Campus Edge Solutions, said: At Nokia we are committed to helping enterprises reliably connect workers in the most intuitive ways to keep them safe and productive. By extending our portfolio with the new 5G handheld devices and making Nokia Team Comms 3GPP-aligned, we can serve the growing needs of enterprise workers in industrial and hazardous environments as well as public safety teams. And, by leveraging the new capabilities of Nokia Network Digital Twin, teams will have more information than ever before allowing them to make instant informed decisions to maintain efficiency and network reliability in their dynamically changing environments. Nokia 4.9G/LTE and 5G ruggedized user equipment and integrated applications allow enterprises to connect their workers and industrial machines over private wireless networks and benefit from the greatest performance and lowest latency. It came as no surprise when the U.S. Navy recently made it official that its ambitious but poorly implemented "Littoral Combat Ship" (LCS) program will be eliminated. This comes after more than a decade of effort to build at least fifty of them to replace 51 very successful Perry-Class frigates and 26 smaller mine warfare ships. Only 35 LCS ships were built and now they are being rapidly retired, often after only a few years of service. The main reason for this is that the LCS never performed adequately and cost much more than they were supposed to. The navy saves a lot of money by eliminating the LCS ships and can use the savings to maintain or expand construction of ships that work. Currently there are only 25 LCS ships in service, but many are not operational. In early 2022 only seventeen LCS ships were in service with only eleven fully capable. Six had operational limitations because of engine problems and were unable to go overseas or do much more than act as patrol ships in the Caribbean, interdicting illegal drug smuggling. By early 2022 six of the older LCS ships were retired early, four of them of the type that have debilitating engine (combining gear) problems. The Navy never came close to obtaining the 55 LCS ships originally planned. The failure of the LCS was not unusual because the U.S. Navy has, since the 1980s, had an impressive and disastrous number of new ship designs that failed. The LCS failure was not sudden, but the result of a growing number of construction defects and design flaws that have caused the planned number to be produced or kept in service revised downward five times. The latest reductions may be the last, because a replacement ship has already been selected and ordered. The problems began to appear when the navy was unable to decide which of the two competing LCS designs to select. One was the Lockheed-Martin monohull Freedom-class and the other the General Dynamics trimaran Independence-class. The first LCS built, the traditional monohull USS Freedom, completed its sea trials and acceptance inspections in 2009. The ship did very well, with about 90 percent fewer problems, usually material deficiencies, than is usual with the first warship in a class. USS Independence (LCS-2) was laid down by General Dynamics in late 2005 and commissioned in January 2010. There were problems. The corrosion and hull cracks were expected eventually but appeared much earlier than anticipated. The fatal flaw in the monohull Freedom-class was not confirmed until 2020 when two Freedom-class ships had engine failures at sea and had to return to port at slow speed. The problem was with the ball-bearings in the combining gear, which was needed to achieve top speed by combining the power of both the diesel and gas-turbine engines. By 2022 the Freedom type LCS ships could only use their diesel engines. The navy believed it had a fix, but implementing it takes several months and involves removing a lot of equipment from the engine space to reach the combining gear for ball-bearing replacement and other adjustments. This turned out to be a temporary fix. Because of the uncertainty four Freedom class ships that were under construction or launched and ready for sea-trials were indefinitely delayed until the full extent of the combining-gear problem could be determined. In the end, the Freedom class ships were declared a failure. Note that warships use diesel engines for economical slow cruising. Gas turbine engines are used for rapid acceleration and have been around for decades. The problems with the diesel and gas turbine engines should not have happened. Both types of LCS had their own problems as well as problems common to the overall LCS concept. The Navy surprised everyone in 2010 by choosing both monohull and trimaran designs and requesting that the fifty or so LCS ships be split between the two designs. While both ships look quite different, they both share many common elements. One of the most important of these is the highly automated design and smaller crew. Both ships have accommodations for only 75 personnel. Normally, a ship of this size would have a crew of 150-200. The basic LCS crew is 40, with the other 35 berths occupied by operators of special equipment. That was eventually changed to 73 crew as standard, with another 20 if the ship was equipped with a helicopter and UAVs or another type of mission module. Even with nearly a hundred crew the workload is heavy and the LCS has two crews for each ship, each one serving at sea four to five months are replaced by the other crew. The current crew size meant revising the berthing arrangements to provide berths for up to a hundred crew. The inadequate crew size problem was one of several defects that doomed the LCS. The much smaller crew required some changes to how the crew ran a ship and how many sailors and civilians were required back on land to support a LCS at sea. It was also found that the interchangeable mission modules took far longer, 2-3 days instead of 2-3 hours, to replace. The LCS has still not seen combat and the Navy wants the first violent encounter to be successful, or at least not disastrous. It is expected that there will be surprises, which is about all that can be guaranteed at this point. It turned out that the mission modules were a flawed concept that never worked. Both LCS designs were supposed to be for ships displacing 2,500 tons, with a full load draft of under 3.3 meters (ten feet), permitting access to very shallow "green" and even "brown" coastal and riverine waters where most naval operations have taken place in the past generation. Top speed was expected to be over 80 kilometers with a range of 2,700 kilometers and basic endurance of 21 days. In reality, the monohull Freedom class was a 3,500-ton (full load) ship with a max speed of 83 kilometers an hour and max endurance of 21 days. It could travel up to 6,500 kilometers (at 33 kilometers an hour) before requiring refueling. The multihull Independence class was a 3,100-ton (full load) ship with a max speed of 87 kilometers an hour and max endurance of 21 days. It could travel up to 8,000 kilometers (at 37 kilometers an hour) before requiring refueling. Basic LCS armament is a 57mm gun, four 12.7mm machine-guns and an eleven cell SeaRam system for aircraft and missile defense. This system uses RAM, as in RIM-116 "Rolling AirFrame" missiles to replace the older 20mm Phalanx autocannon. SeaRAM has a longer range (7.5 kilometers) than the Phalanx (two kilometers). An LCS can also carry two MH-60 helicopters or two slightly smaller MQ-8C helicopter UAVs (or one of each). In addition to basic armament and electronics (sea and air search radars) the LCS crew was to contain specialized teams who are swapped in to operate specific mission package modules. About 40 percent of the ship is empty, with a large cargo hold into which the mission package gear is inserted and then removed, along with the package crew, when it is no longer assigned to that ship. An LCS has two crews when underway; the "ship" crew and the mission package crew. The captain of the ship crew is in charge and the officer commanding the mission package is simply the officer in charge of the largest equipment system on board. Initially, there were to be quite a few mission modules including mine warfare, air defense, anti-submarine warfare, special operations and surface warfare. These modules would allow the ships to be quickly reconfigured for various specialized missions. Crews for each module will also be modularized so that specialized teams can be swapped in to operate specific modules. The design and crew requirements for these modules are still a work in progress and none of the planned mission modules have yet entered service. Emphasis has been placed on getting the mine warfare and anti-submarine warfare modules ready as soon as possible. The mine warfare module had problems and was never ready for use. The anti-submarine warfare module had even more problems. From the beginning, many naval construction experts doubted that these modules would ever be ready for use. Both of these modules used a lot of equipment already available for use on helicopters as well as the ship. The LCS received helicopters and UAVs that were only used for naval patrol. Ships like destroyers have long used their helicopters equipped with submarine detection equipment and lightweight anti-submarine torpedoes. By 2020 the Navy had and selected and ordered a replacement for the LSC in the form of frigates from an Italian firm that won the competition to build two FREMM type frigates for the U.S. Navy, with an option for eight more and eventually twenty, to replace the failed LCS design. At least twenty of these FREMM ships will be built in the United States as the 7,200-ton Constellation-class FFG (guided missile frigate), which is optimized for ASW (anti-submarine warfare). The first FFG is to enter service in 2026. Each will cost about $800 million, which is what each of the less capable and reliable LCS vessels ended up costing. If FREMM is as successful as expected, that will be the end of the LCS. The first FREMM entered service in 2012 for France while a year later the second one entered service for Italy. Eventually about a hundred FREMM type ships will be in use, mainly by France, Italy and the United States. Several other countries have expressed interest in being export customers for FREMMs. The LCS demonstrated it could not replace the old Perry class frigates or be of much use at all. Without the mission modules, the LCS could only be used as a coastal patrol ship that was only able to detect surface ships. The LCS has actually been quite effective at the patrol work, which is all it has been able to do so far. Smaller and cheaper patrol ships are available for that sort of thing. New designs, especially for a new type of ship, are inherently risky. Project managers know that the media is always looking for bad news. That sort of thing can also be leveraged into accusations that project managers are trying to deceive Congress and perpetuate a fraud on the taxpayer. These accusations rarely pan out but they are much desired by editors as they can get exciting stories going and keep them going for a while. The rather less exciting reality is that the LCS is just another new warship design that ship builders thought would work and bring them a lot of business. The real story is the growing inability of American shipbuilders to construct warships competently. That story gets kicked around from time to time but never seems to gain any traction to be used long enough to find some answers. In this case the LCS was a very flawed design with a growing list of problems. The first LCS, the monohull USS Freedom, entered service in 2008 and over the next five years suffered major problems. In addition to a computer network hacking vulnerability, there was a leak in a propeller shaft seal which caused some minor flooding and cracks in the hull as long as 17 cm (6.5 inches) were discovered. The water-jet propulsion system broke down as well and in a separate incident one of the gas turbine engines broke down. That turned out to be a prelude to the combining-gear flaw, which took several years to reveal itself. The first serious problem was found in the USS Independence, the radical trimaran design. It seems that a "dissimilar metals" situation arose when salt water, the aluminum hull, and some other metals got into close proximity with each other and extensive corrosion resulted. Aluminum hulls tend to corrode more than steel but the problem became so bad with the USS Independence that, 18 months after entering service, it was sent into dry dock for corrosion repairs and design changes to eliminate the problem. It is unclear if those fixes will hold or that the Independence design will not develop more serious flaws. Cracks, corrosion, and equipment breakdowns are common in new warship designs, particularly designs that are radically different. Usually, these problems can be fixed, but there's always the risk that the new design will be seriously flawed, requiring extensive rework and a halt in building more ships of that class. That is what happened with LCS. There is some nervousness about all this. The U.S. Navy has not introduced a radical new design for nearly a century. The last such new design was the aircraft carrier, which required two decades of experimentation and a major war to nail down what worked. Even the nuclear submarines of the late 1950s and early 60s were evolutionary compared to what the LCS is trying to do. The LCS failed and the navy turned to a proven European frigate design that could enter production quickly and with confidence that the new ships will work. Since the 1990s the navy has had to deal with unworkable or too expensive ship designs like the Seawolf nuclear subs, the Zumwalt class destroyers, the LCS and even the new Ford class carriers, which had problems becoming ready for service because a radical new EMALS catapult design that was rushed into production without sufficient development and debugging. This is a track record of disasters that the U.S. Navy seems incapable of ending. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: A microscopic peek of how these DNA strands form shapes that are built into larger lattice structures that are coated in silica. CFN, JEOL-1400 TEM and Hitachi-4800 SEM. Credit: Brookhaven National Laboratory Working on the nanoscale gives researchers a lot of insight and control when fabricating and characterizing materials. In larger scale manufacturing, as well as in nature, many materials have the capacity for flaws and impurities that can disrupt their complex structure. This creates several weak points that can easily break under stress. This is common with most glass, which is why it is thought of as such a delicate material. Scientists at the Columbia University, University of Connecticut, and the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Brookhaven National Laboratory were able to fabricate a pure form of glass and coat specialized pieces of DNA with it to create a material that was not only stronger than steel, but incredibly lightweight. Materials that possess both of these qualities are uncommon, and further research could lead to novel engineering and defense applications. The results were published in Cell Reports Physical Science. DNA: The building blocks for life and more In living things, deoxyribonucleic acid, more commonly known as DNA, carries biological information that instructs the cells of organisms on how to form, grow, and reproduce. The material DNA is made of is known as a polymer, a class of tough, elastic materials that includes plastic and rubber. Their resilience and simplicity have intrigued material scientists and inspired many interesting experiments. Oleg Gang, a materials scientist at the Center for Functional Nanomaterials (CFN), a DOE Office of Science User Facility at Brookhaven Lab, and a professor at Columbia University, has been leveraging DNA's unique properties for materials synthesis for years, resulting in numerous discoveries. This novel technology has inspired an array of innovative applicationsfrom drug delivery to electronics. Gang had previously worked with the paper's lead author, Brookhaven postdoctoral researcher Aaron Michelson, on an experiment using DNA structures to build a robust framework for novel materials. DNA molecules behave in an interesting way. The individual nucleotides, basic units of nucleic acids like DNA and RNA, dictate the bonding between complementary sequences. The precise way they bond to each other allows scientists to develop methods to engineer the folding of DNA into specific shapes referred to as "origami", named after the Japanese art of paper folding. These DNA shapes are nanoscale building blocks that can be programmed using addressable DNA bonds to "self-assemble." This means that well-defined structures with a repeating pattern can spontaneously form from these origami DNA blocks. These blocks then cling together to form a larger latticea structure with a repeating pattern. This process allows scientists to build 3D ordered nanomaterials from DNA and integrate inorganic nanoparticles and proteins, as demonstrated by the group's previous studies. After gaining understanding and control of this unique assembly process, Gang, Michelson, and their team were then able to explore what can be achieved when that biomolecular scaffolding was used create silica frameworks that preserve the scaffold architecture. "We focused on using DNA as a programmable nanomaterial to form a complex 3D scaffold," said Michelson, "and we wanted to explore how this scaffold will perform mechanically when transferred into more stable solid-state materials. We explored having this self-assembling material cast in silica, the main ingredient in glass, and its potential." Oleg Gang, pictured behind, and Aaron Michelson use the specialized resources at CFN to measure the surprising strength of this novel material structure. Credit: Brookhaven National Laboratory Michelson's work in this field earned him the Robert Simon Memorial Prize at Columbia University. His research into DNA frameworks has explored a range of characteristics and applications, from mechanical properties to superconductivity. Much like the structures he's built upon, Michelson's work continues to grow and build as it takes on new layers of information from these exciting experiments. The next part of the fabrication process was inspired by biomineralizationthe way certain living tissue produces minerals to become harder, like bones. "We were very interested to explore how we can enhance mechanical properties of regular materials, like glass, but structuring them at the nanoscale," said Gang. The scientists used a very thin layer of silica glass, only about 5 nm or few hundred atoms thick, to coat the DNA frames, leaving inner spaces open and ensuring that the resulting material is ultra-light. On this small scale, the glass is insensitive to flaws or defects, providing a strength that isn't seen in larger pieces of glass where cracks develop and cause it to shatter. The team wanted to know exactly how strong this material was though, which, at this scale, required some very specialized equipment. Strength under pressure There are simple ways to check if something is sturdy. Poking, pushing, and leaning on surfaces and observing their behavior can often provide helpful information. Do they bend, creak, buckle, or stand firm under the stress? This is a simple, but effective way to get an understanding of an object's strength, even without tools to measure it precisely. How does one press on an object that's too small to see, though? "To measure the strength of these tiny structures, we employed a technique called nanoindentation," explained Michelson. "Nanoindentation is a mechanical test on a very small scale performed using a precise instrument that can apply and measure resistive forces." "Our samples are only a few microns thick, about a thousandth of a millimeter, so it's impossible to measure these materials by conventional means. Using an electron microscope and nanoindentation together, we can simultaneously measure mechanical behavior and observe the process of the compression." A graph comparing the nanolattice in this experiment to the relative strength of various materials. Credit: Brookhaven National Laboratory As the tiny device compresses, or indents, the sample, researchers can take measurements and observe mechanical properties. They can then see what happens to the material as the compression is released and the sample returns to its original state. If there are any cracks that form or if the structure fails at any point, this valuable data can be recorded. When put to the test, the glass-coated DNA lattice was shown to be four times stronger than steel! What was even more interesting was that its density was about five times lower. While there are materials that are strong and considered fairly lightweight, it has never been achieved to this degree. This technique wasn't something that was always readily available at CFN, however. "We collaborated with Seok-Woo Lee, an associate professor at the University of Connecticut, who has expertise in the mechanical properties of materials," said Gang. "He was a CFN user who leveraged some of our capabilities and resources, like electron microscopes, which is how we developed a relationship with him. We initially didn't have the capability for nanoindentation, but he led us to the proper tools and got us on the right track. This is another example of how scientists from academia and national labs benefit from working together. We now have these tools and the expertise to take studies like this even further." Building something new and exciting While there is still a lot of work to be done before scaling up and thinking about the myriad of applications for such a material, there are still reasons for materials scientists to be excited about what this means going forward. The team plans to look at other materials, like carbide ceramics, that are even stronger than glass to see how they work and behave. This could lead to even stronger lightweight materials in the future. While his career is still in its early stages, Michelson has already achieved so much, and is already eager to start on the next phases of his research. "It's a wonderful opportunity to be a postdoc at Brookhaven Lab, especially after being a Columbia University student who would work at the CFN quite often," recalled Michelson. "This is what led me to continue there as a postdoc. The capabilities that we have at the CFN, especially in regard to imaging, really helped to propel my work." 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: Elon Musk has made major, often controversial changes to the social media site in the year since he purchased Twitter. X-owner Elon Musk said that he had gutted the platform's team dedicated to preserving election integrity as key votes in many countries are approaching. "Oh you mean the 'Election Integrity' Team that was undermining election integrity? Yeah, they're gone," Musk wrote in a post on Wednesday, in response to a report in The Information. The online outlet said that X, formerly known as Twitter, was cutting half of its global team dedicated to monitoring and limiting disinformation and fraud around major elections. There are more than 50 major elections expected around the world next year, including the US presidential election, but also in India, Africa and the European Union. The cut came just after X was found by EU regulators to have the biggest proportion of disinformation of major social networks scrutinized in an analysis by Brussels. A new EU regulation compels tech companies to better police content to protect European users against disinformation and hate speech, and those that breach the law could face fines. The job cuts appear in contradiction with recent statements by X CEO Linda Yaccarino, who told the Financial Times this week that the platform was expanding its teams around the world ahead of the busy election season. Asked about the report in a separate interview at the Vox Code Conference on Wednesday, Yaccarino said election integrity was "an issue we take very seriously." "Contrary to the comments that were made, there is a robust and growing team at X that is wrapping their arms around election integrity," she added. In her conversation, Yaccarino also said X would turn a profit early next year. She also refused to confirm that X would start charging money to all its users, implying that it was an "idea" and not a plan. During a talk with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last week, Musk said that introducing a "small monthly payment" for X was the only way to combat the legions of automated accounts, known as bots, that plague the site. 2023 AFP This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Apple's former lead designer Jony Ive is in talks to team up with ChatGPT creator OpenAI to create an "iPhone of Artificial Intelligence," the Financial Times reported on Thursday. Citing three unnamed sources, the report said OpenAI CEO Sam Altman had turned to Ive's company LoveFrom to develop what would be the ChatGPT creator's first consumer device. The project would be financed with an investment of $1 billion by Japanese conglomerate Softbank, with its chip design company Arm playing a key role. Talks to develop the project were said to be serious, but that the process of narrowing down a specific product remained at an early stage "with many different ideas on the table," the report said. The sources said it could still take months for the venture to be officially agreed and that any product would take years to reach the market. Ive served as the chief design officer at Apple from 1997 to 2019, playing a key role in the design of some of Apple's most iconic products, including the iPhone and MacBook. 2023 AFP This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain Gary Ackerman, an associate professor and associate dean at the State University of New York's University at Albany College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity (CEHC), has spent decades studying terrorism around the worldfrom the motivations and capabilities of terrorist groups to the mitigation strategies governments use to defend against them. Last month, Ackerman published an article in the European Journal of Risk Regulation that gained a substantial amount of media attention: "Existential Terrorism: Can Terrorists Destroy Humanity?" The paper, which Ackerman co-authored with Zachary Kallenborn of the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), explores the plausibility of terrorist organizations using emerging technologies such as AI to enact existential harm, including human extinction. Ackerman has headed more than 10 large government-sponsored research projects over the past five years to address counterterrorism policy and operations, and has testified before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security about terrorist motivations for using nuclear weapons. He is also a senior investigator and co-founder of the nation's first Center for Advanced Red Teaming (CART) housed at CEHC. In this Q&A, Ackerman discusses existential terrorism and the threats it poses, what's being done to prevent the use of AI as a weapon, and why he found it necessary to publish an article about this topic now. How do you define existential terrorism? We define existential terrorism as terrorism that will cause sufficient harm to the continuation of humanity, either by wiping out the population completely or reducing it to an unviable quantity. Another understanding of existential risk that we discuss is the prevention of human flourishing, in which the human species gets stuck in a cycle where it cannot grow, such as in a global totalitarian society that oppresses all of mankind. But for the purposes of our research, we define existential terrorism as terrorism that brings about (or comes close to bringing about) human extinction. When people think about what could destroy humanity, they think of climate change, nuclear war or a pandemic, and not usually terrorism. Some people argue that terrorism at that scale is something seen only in science fiction or James Bond movies. We initially had the same reaction, but then we realized that no one has really taken this topic seriously. So we decided to take a more in-depth look at whether terrorists could ever cause a degree of harm that could put the existence of humanity in jeopardy. How does emerging tech like AI contribute to the threat of existential terrorism? It's really impossible for an individual or small group of terrorists to destroy humanity in most cases unless they have an extreme amount of leverage. One of the ways they can get leverage is through an enabling technology like AI, because it can act as a force multiplier, potentially even to cause harm at an extinction level. One example would be if terrorists hacked into an existing AI, say, that controlled nuclear weapons systems and set off nuclear war. Another option would be if terrorists created a malevolent AI and instructed it to destroy humanity, although this option might be extremely difficult to do and remains highly speculative. This is because we don't yet have the kind of AI that could destroy humanity on its own, and we don't really know how far we are from that pointit could be five years, 50 years or maybe never. The only current technology that terrorists could feasibly produce and deploy on their own to cause an existential threat is biotechnology. An example of this is if terrorists created a pandemic disease that was self-replicating, extremely contagious and caused high mortality rates, but this would require extremely high technical knowledge and specialized equipment. This explains why terrorists directly causing the end of humanity is very unlikely. On the other hand, terrorists could cause harm indirectly by removing safeguards or preventing us from minimizing other risks. For example, terrorists could sabotage a rocket that we might send into space to divert a comet away from the Earth or remove safeguards that prevented an existing AI from going rogue. We call acts like these "spoilers," which we believe are much more plausible than terrorists causing existential harm directly. Fortunately, these require an existential risk to have already manifested on its own, which means that terrorists could not bring about this kind of harm completely on their own. Why did you feel it was necessary to publish an article about this topic? A lot of people dismiss these hypothetical scenarios as crazy or too far-fetched. Even if we find that there's not much of a threat, which is essentially what we have found to be the case at this moment, it's still worth considering such scenarios, so that we're prepared for future emerging threats, like AI. Even from this initial research, we now understand some of these emerging threats better and that there are some areas where existential harm from terrorists is feasible, such as in the case of spoilers. The other reason we explored existential terrorism is that by exploring the most extreme scenarios, we can better calibrate the likelihood of less extreme cases of terrorism. Overall, we found that although there are definitely people who would like to destroy humanity, it's not something that I would lose sleep over at the moment. But, at some point, they theoretically could succeed, so it's important to know what the threat might look like and what we can do to prevent it. What's being done to prevent the potential use of AI as a weapon? Not much has been done specifically to prevent AI from being used as a weapon on a human extinction scale. However, there's been a lot of work about AI risk and risk prevention published by think tanks like the Global Catastrophic Risk Institute (GCRI), where I'm also a senior advisor. In March, over 1,000 industry leaders, researchers and tech CEOs signed an open letter calling for a six-month moratorium on the development of advanced AI systems, citing AI's profound risks to society and humanity. But most of the action taken by Congress, at least in the United States, has focused more on addressing the other risks of AI, like displacing jobs or being used by our adversaries to design better weapons. Very few people in our government are seriously looking at AI as an existential problem, even though people are slowly becoming aware of these potential threats. There's a legitimate worry that the smarter we make systems, even if they don't quite get to sentience, the more likely they could become a major risk. Broadly speaking, we have to think of AI as a global issue. We may have disagreements with other countries, but neither Russia, China nor any of the United States' other rivals have any interest in the world being destroyed. When it comes to threats of existential terrorism or climate change for that matter, we need global cooperation. Even if we compete with each other, our fights will mean nothing if none of us are around. How does this work fit into CEHC's larger research portfolio? Part of our goal at CEHC is to think about threats to the future and how to prevent them. CEHC tries to be on the cutting edge of new ideas, whether it relates to emergency preparedness or national security. Existential terrorism is not really the core of my research and this piece addresses much more extreme and speculative scenarios than I usually explore, but some of these ideas overlap with our day-to-day work. Most of my work is really much more data-focused, such as conducting horizon scans on new technology or building socio-technical models and simulations to analyze how terrorists and other adversaries might use technology to hurt U.S. citizens. This paper was largely a thought experiment, but it seems to have resonated with people. Hopefully, it'll make more people think critically about the issue of existential terrorism to ensure that we don't get surprised at a later date. More information: Zachary Kallenborn et al, Existential Terrorism: Can Terrorists Destroy Humanity?, European Journal of Risk Regulation (2023). DOI: 10.1017/err.2023.48 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: Rui Zhang, postdoc fellow at Linkoping University. Credit: Olov PlanthaberRestriction: The contents may be downloaded, used and shared in media channels by, for example, journalists, bloggers, writers, pundits, etc., for purposes of communication, description and commenting on your press release, post or information, on the condition that the contents are used unchanged and in their entirety. The creator must be specified to the extent and in the manner required by good publishing practice (which means, among other things, that the photographer of any photographs must nearly always be specified). Linkoping University Material used in organic solar cells can also be used as light sensors in electronics. This has been shown by researchers at Linkoping University, Sweden, who have developed a type of sensor able to detect circularly polarized red light. Their study, published in Nature Photonics, paves the way for more reliable self-driving vehicles and other uses where night vision is important. Some beetles with shiny wings, firefly larvae and colorful mantis shrimps reflect a particular kind of light known as circularly polarized light. This is due to microscopic structures in their shell that reflect the electromagnetic light waves in a particular way. Circularly polarized light also has many technical uses, such as satellite communication, bioimaging and other sensing technologies. This is because circularly polarizing light carries a vast amount of information, due to the fact that the electromagnetic field around the light beam spirals either to the right or to the left. To detect circularly polarized light, you need a material that can sense which way the spiral is twisted. There are currently materials that can detect and decode circularly polarizing light in almost the entire visible light spectrum, except for in the near-infrared region. Researchers at Linkoping University have now developed a material, normally used for organic solar cells, to catch these particular light beams. "Constructing high-quality sensors that can detect circularly polarizing light in the near-infrared spectrum has long been a challenge. But thanks to further development of a material normally used in solar cells, we can now detect circularly polarized light across the entire visible light spectrum," says Feng Gao, professor in the Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM) at Linkoping University. This discovery paves the way for technical solutions where night vision is vital, such as in self-driving cars. The fact that the material is lightweight and the simple manufacturing process makes it suitable for use in small and cheap sensors. The solar cell material consists of polymers (long chains of carbohydrates) and may have a spherical molecular structure known as fullerene, or a different structure and the material is then called non-fullerene. The material used in the current study is non-fullerene, which has turned out to be an advantage in solar cells as well as in other uses such as light sensors. This material's ability to sense circularly polarizing light is due to its chirality, that is which way the molecules interact with light. Chirality in molecules is most easily explained as a pair of hands. Your right hand and your left hand are built the same, but are mirror images of each other and thereby have somewhat differing functions. Thanks to chirality, various molecules can sense whether the electromagnetic radiation spirals to the right or to the left. "The next step is to expand these trials to include several different materials and examine how molecules and light interact in them. This way, we hope to be able to increase effectivity," says Li Wan, postdoc fellow at IFM. Rui Zhang, also a postdoc fellow at IFM adds, "The packing control between molecules could be very important." More information: Li Wan et al, Sensitive near-infrared circularly polarized light detection via non-fullerene acceptor blends, Nature Photonics (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41566-023-01230-z Journal information: Nature Photonics In a surprising move that has sent shockwaves through the cryptocurrency community, Brian Armstrong, the CEO of the prominent United States-based cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase, has publicly condemned JPMorgans subsidiary, Chase UK. This condemnation comes in response to Chase UKs recent decision to impose a blanket ban on its customers in the United Kingdom from engaging in debit card or wire transfers related to cryptocurrency transactions. Armstrongs impassioned response, delivered via X (formerly Twitter) on September 26, has raised questions about the future of cryptocurrency in the UK and the relationship between traditional banks and the burgeoning digital asset space. Armstrong did not mince words when expressing his displeasure with Chase UKs decision, describing it as totally inappropriate. His Twitter post also contained a call to action for UK crypto holders, urging them to consider closing their accounts in protest of what he sees as unfair treatment. Furthermore, Armstrong called upon UK officials, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Economic Secretary Andrew Griffith, to scrutinize whether Chase UKs actions align with the countrys policy goals regarding cryptocurrency. In a somewhat hopeful tone, Armstrong expressed his desire for a more nuanced understanding of the situation and suggested that Chase UKs stance might evolve once officials delve deeper into the matter. He stated, Really hoping there is more to this story than meets the eye, and that this does not reflect Chase UKs actual view. Chase UKs decision to ban crypto-related transactions became official on September 26. In a statement provided to Cointelegraph, the bank cited a high level of fraud associated with cryptocurrency transactions as the primary motivation behind this controversial move. According to the statement, customers will receive a declined transaction notification if they attempt to engage in any crypto-related transactions. The fallout from this decision has sparked intense discussions within the cryptocurrency community and beyond, as many ponder the implications for the broader adoption of digital assets and the clash between traditional banking institutions and the crypto space. The Impact on UK Crypto Holders Chase UKs abrupt ban on cryptocurrency transactions has left many UK-based crypto enthusiasts in a state of bewilderment and frustration. For individuals who have been actively trading and investing in digital assets, this move presents a significant hurdle. It effectively severs their access to one of the most prominent and widely used banking institutions in the country. As the ban applies to both debit card and wire transfers related to cryptocurrencies, it affects a broad spectrum of crypto-related activities. Whether its buying Bitcoin as an investment, transferring Ethereum to a decentralized finance (DeFi) platform, or simply making day-to-day purchases with digital currencies, all these activities are now off-limits for Chase UK customers. This ban has generated a sense of urgency among crypto holders, prompting many to contemplate the drastic step of closing their Chase UK accounts, as suggested by Brian Armstrong. Such a move would signal a significant loss of business for the bank and could force it to reconsider its stance on cryptocurrency transactions. The Rationale Behind Chase UKs Decision Chase UKs decision to prohibit crypto-related transactions hinges on its concerns about fraud within the cryptocurrency space. While the digital asset industry has seen remarkable growth and innovation, it has also attracted its fair share of fraudulent activities and scams. This has prompted regulatory bodies in various countries to implement measures aimed at protecting consumers. In the case of Chase UK, the bank appears to have taken an uncompromising stance by imposing a complete ban. By doing so, it aims to shield its customers from the potential financial risks associated with cryptocurrency-related fraud. The decision to decline crypto transactions may, in the banks view, safeguard its clientele from unauthorized or dubious transactions that could result in substantial losses. The Response from UK Officials Brian Armstrongs call to UK officials to scrutinize Chase UKs actions has not gone unnoticed. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Economic Secretary Andrew Griffith have a responsibility to ensure that the financial services sector in the UK operates in a manner that aligns with the countrys broader economic and regulatory objectives. This recent development has undoubtedly caught the attention of UK policymakers. While there is no official statement yet regarding whether an investigation or review will be conducted, Armstrongs plea may influence their decision-making process. The cryptocurrency industry has been a subject of interest for regulators worldwide, and this situation highlights the importance of finding a balanced approach that fosters innovation while ensuring consumer protection. The Future of Cryptocurrency in the UK The ban imposed by Chase UK raises questions about the future of cryptocurrency adoption and regulation in the United Kingdom. As cryptocurrencies gain traction as a legitimate asset class and means of payment, traditional financial institutions face the challenge of adapting to this rapidly evolving landscape. Many UK-based cryptocurrency advocates argue that the ban represents a step backward. They argue that it hampers financial inclusion and stifles innovation by limiting access to digital assets. Furthermore, it may create a sense of alienation among the growing community of crypto enthusiasts who are looking for more integrated and seamless ways to manage their finances. However, it is essential to acknowledge the banks concerns about fraud and investor protection. Cryptocurrencies, while offering numerous benefits, are not without risks. Without adequate safeguards and regulatory oversight, consumers could fall victim to scams, fraudulent schemes, and price volatility. The path forward for cryptocurrency in the UK likely involves finding a middle ground that addresses the legitimate concerns of both traditional financial institutions and the cryptocurrency community. Striking the right balance between innovation and security will be crucial in shaping the future regulatory framework for digital assets in the country. The Global Implications Chase UKs decision to ban crypto-related transactions also reverberates beyond the borders of the United Kingdom. It serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle to integrate the digital asset space with the traditional financial system worldwide. As cryptocurrency adoption continues to expand globally, banks and financial institutions face the challenge of reconciling their existing infrastructure with the demands of this emerging asset class. The tension between centralized banking and decentralized cryptocurrencies has been a recurring theme in the industry. This incident with Chase UK underscores the need for a more comprehensive and consistent approach to cryptocurrency regulation and integration. It is not an issue that is confined to a single bank or jurisdiction; it is a global challenge that requires collaboration between governments, regulatory bodies, financial institutions, and the cryptocurrency community. Conclusion The clash between JPMorgans Chase UK and the cryptocurrency community highlights the complex and evolving relationship between traditional banking institutions and the digital asset space. While concerns about fraud and consumer protection are valid, a complete ban on cryptocurrency transactions may not be the most constructive approach. WASHINGTON Over 100,000 active duty service members in Texas could go without a paycheck. Even more civilians working for federal agencies in the state could be furloughed or have to work without pay. Food subsidies for low-income women, infants and children could dry up. Airport security lines could get longer. FEMA payments to state and local governments could be late. A federal shutdown, precipitated by an ideological battle in Congress, would put thousands of Texans in financial precarity. Congress is continuing to debate a path forward to keep the government funded, but with less than a week left until the end of the fiscal year on Oct. 1, a shutdown appears imminent. Democrats are quick to blame Republicans, and Republicans are beginning to blame each other. The House Republican Conference has been in a fractured state since taking the majority this year, and several conservative Republicans are willing to tank Congress annual appropriations process in a bid to get stronger border security measures, drastically reduced spending levels and stopping further aid to Ukraine. All are priorities that would have no chance of success in the Democratic-controlled Senate. What will be impacted Federal employees in Texas are at risk of going without a paycheck, depending on the agency they work for and the amount of money their agency has on reserve. Texas has over 120,000 civilian federal employees and over 114,000 active duty service members. Civilian employees include air traffic controllers, airport security officers, Medicare service center workers and Customs and Border Protection. Employees deemed essential could be required to work without pay, though they would get back pay once the federal government reopens. Employees for critical infrastructure, such as air travel and defense are almost always deemed essential. But even with back pay, working for free can put those employees in a challenging position keeping their families fed and staying on top of their bills. The last time the government shut down, for over 30 days from 2018 to 2019, food banks saw a drastic uptick in demand from furloughed federal workers, said Celia Cole, CEO of Feeding Texas. We are going to see basically uncertainty for thousands of families in Texas, in a state where theres already a lot of people living just one paycheck away from needing support from their food bank, Cole said. Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are paid for by legislation outside of the annual appropriations process, meaning checks will largely go out as normal. But the lack of staffing means support for those programs could get delayed. Offices for Texans to sign up or renew eligibility for the programs will be closed. The U.S. Department of Agriculture predicted that there will be enough money for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, formerly known as food stamps, to go out normally for all of October if the government shuts down. But if the shutdown stretches longer than a month, as it did in 2019, the programs continuity is less clear. Over 3 million Texans use the program. The special SNAP for Women, Infants, and Children, commonly known as WIC, could take a hit much earlier, however. Funding for the program depends more heavily on how much each state has in reserves. Nearly 800,000 Texans use the program to access food and formula before and after birth. A spokesperson for the Texas Health and Human Services Commission said it is closely monitoring the potential shutdown and are evaluating funding options for affected services and staff positions in case of a federal shutdown. Border security, which is likely to be deemed essential, could also take a hit. U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-El Paso, said Customs and Border Protection officers are already suffering low morale from long hours and insufficient funding, and working conditions would only worsen if they are forced to work without pay. A Senate study after the 2018-19 shutdown found that the Department of Homeland Security delayed maintenance of border facilities at the time due to lack of funding, which endangered the lives of law enforcement officers and created significant border security vulnerabilities. In several parts of rural Texas close to the border, Border Patrol often supplement law enforcement. During the Robb Elementary shooting in Uvalde, more than half of the responders were Border Patrol. But those agents could have to work without a paycheck if the government shuts down. In rural communities, these federal employees are critical, Escobar said. They are the law enforcement personnel that many rural communities depend on. And what the House Republicans are doing is essentially telling those federal employees we need you, but we dont want to pay you. During the 2013 shutdown, Congress passed legislation at the 11th hour that would secure active duty military pay through the government closure, and lawmakers are making a similar push now. U.S. Rep. Monica De La Cruz, R-Edinburg, introduced similar legislation this week to protect Border Patrol pay. But with the House barely capable of even passing the procedural rules required to consider appropriations legislation, theres only a narrow amount of time for even those emergency bills to get through. The shutdown also could jeopardize payments by the Federal Emergency Management Agency during hurricane season. The agency has begun delaying payments to ration money, The Washington Post reported, meaning state projects to recover from disasters could be held up. Texas also has over 4,700 Transportation Security Administration officers and over 1,200 air traffic controllers all of whom would likely have to work without a paycheck if the shutdown stretches beyond their next pay period. The loss of pay could lead to low morale and agents calling in sick, as occurred during the last shutdown. The slowdowns and loss of safety personnel that we experienced during previous shutdowns were unacceptable, and it is essential that hiring, training and pay for these vital air safety professionals are not interrupted by any lapse in funding, Jason Ambrosi, president of the Air Line Pilots Association, said in a statement. How it got here Congress must pass appropriations legislation before the end of each fiscal year to determine which federal programs get how much money. Congress has failed to reach that Sept. 30 deadline every year since 1996, opting instead to pass temporary funding measures called continuing resolutions to buy time to pass year-long funding bills. But several far-right Republicans are refusing to pass a continuing resolution without major concessions, including the passage of a House Republican bill to harden the border that Democrats revile. They are also demanding a stop to assistance to Ukraine, which many Senate Republicans and Democrats agree is a critical national security priority. Republicans are all willing to shut down the government and throw working people under the bus and damage the economy, just because they think that its going to go politically well for them, and that is disgraceful, and its wrong and Texans need to know it, U.S. Rep. Greg Casar, D-Austin, said. Conservatives and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy struck a deal earlier this month to pass a continuing resolution that would keep the government funded for 30 days into the new fiscal year, buying time to pass the full appropriations legislation. The deal would cut non-defense discretionary spending by 8%, eliminate Ukraine aid and tack on the House Republican border security bill. Texas Republicans in particular have demanded border security be a part of any funding deal even though a shutdown could weaken defenses on the southern border. The House Republican border security bill was born out of a border plan designed by conservatives in the Texas delegation to increase penalties for cartels, build a border wall and keep asylum-seekers in Mexico. Democrats and several Republicans immediately decried the continuing resolution deal as a nonstarter. It is far below the spending limit negotiated by the White House and McCarthy to raise the debt limit last spring and would drastically cut spending for programs ranging from education to health care. The Senate reached a bipartisan deal Tuesday for its own continuing resolution, essentially in direct opposition to the House Republican proposal. The decision for @POTUS @JoeBidenwill he shut down the border or shut down the government? U.S. Rep. Chip Roy, R-Austin, posted on social media. Roy was among the conservative Republicans who negotiated the continuing resolution. But yet another rebellion within the House Republican conference shuttered the continuing resolution path, with a cohort of ultraconservative members, including U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Florida, refusing to pass any kind of band-aid and instead focusing on the individual appropriations bills even if it leads to a shutdown. Gaetz has threatened to use a procedural move to launch a vote to remove McCarthy as speaker if he doesnt do as he wishes. McCarthy now has to choose between continuing to concede to his hard right flank, only for any bills to face instant death in the Democratic Senate, or reach out to Democrats to bail him out and keep the government running. McCarthy has essentially handed all his power over to the most extreme Republicans who are sending us to a shutdown, Casar said. Sunstone Hotel Investors (NYSE:SHO) pays an annual dividend of $0.22 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 2.35%. The company does not yet have a strong track record of dividend growth. The dividend payout ratio is 52.38%. This payout ratio is at a healthy, sustainable level, below 75%. Based on earnings estimates, SHO will have a dividend payout ratio of 23.91% next year. This indicates that the company will be able to sustain or increase its dividend. Read our dividend analysis for SHO. The Bank of Nova Scotia provides various banking products and services in Canada, the United States, Mexico, Peru, Chile, Colombia, the Caribbean and Central America, and internationally. It operates in four segments: Canadian Banking, International Banking, Global Wealth Management, and Global Banking and Markets. The company offers financial advice and solutions, and day-to-day banking products, including debit and credit cards, chequing and saving accounts, investments, mortgages, loans, and insurance to individuals; and business banking solutions comprising lending, deposit, cash management, and trade finance solutions to small, medium, and large businesses, including automotive financing solutions to dealers and their customers. It also provides wealth management advice and solutions, including online brokerage, mobile investment, full-service brokerage, trust, private banking, and private investment counsel services; and retail mutual funds, exchange traded funds, liquid alternative funds, and institutional funds. In addition, the company offers international banking services for retail, corporate, and commercial customers; and lending and transaction, investment banking advisory, and capital markets access services to corporate customers. Further, it provides online, mobile, and telephone banking services. The Bank of Nova Scotia was founded in 1832 and is headquartered in Halifax, Canada. The Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) has signed two development loan agreements with the governments of The Bahamas and the Republic of Mauritius worth a total of $140 million to support infrastructure development. In the presence of SFD Board of Directors Chairman, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, the SFD Chief Executive Officer, signed the agreements in Riyadh. Additionally, the CEO also signed a letter of intent with the government of the Republic of San Marino to explore potential infrastructural development cooperation in the economic, cultural and transportation sectors. The agreements and letter of intent were signed on the sidelines of the World Tourism Day 2023, hosted by Saudi Arabia in Riyadh, from September 27 to 28, under the theme Tourism and Green Investments. Family Islands Airports Renaissance Project The first development loan agreement, worth $70 million, was signed with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation of The Bahamas, Isaac Chester, to fund the Family Islands Airports Renaissance Project, which aims to develop and raise the capabilities of airports in the Exuma Islands and increase the number of visitors to the airports from 237,000 to 285,000 visitors annually. The second development loan agreement, worth $70 million, was signed with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism of the Republic of Mauritius, Louis Steven Obeegadoo, to fund the Construction of Riviere des Anguilles Dam Project. The project will protect the natural environment from floodings, and provide a reliable source of water for drinking, irrigation, and industrial use, helping to reduce water scarcity in the southern part of the island. The dam will benefit the economy by creating direct and indirect jobs, both during its construction phase and after it becomes operational. The water supply provided by the dam will also support diverse sectors of the economy, including, agriculture and industry. Infrastructure development potential The letter of intent was signed with the Minister of Tourism of the Republic of San Marino, Federico Pedini Amati will enable the government and SFD to explore potential infrastructure development cooperation in the economic, cultural and transportation sectors. The letter of intent signifies the beginning of a new development relationship between SFD and San Marino. These latest development agreements were signed as part of the SFD's commitment to support sustainable development in developing countries and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) around the world. They will also contribute towards the realisation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 6, Clean water and sanitation, SDG 8, Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 9, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. In line with its mission to promote global sustainable development, SFD has funded more than 700 development projects worth $18.7 billion in over 90 countries around world. SFD is currently expanding its work in the Caribbean region and has recently financed several projects supporting infrastructure, energy, and other key sectors.-- TradeArabia News Service 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. The Southern Company is a leading gas and electric utility holding company based in the southern United States. With its headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, and executive offices in Birmingham, Alabama, the company has established itself as one of the largest energy providers in the country. Serving approximately 9 million gas and electric utility customers across six states, The Southern Company's subsidiaries operate in various segments of the energy industry. The mission of The Southern Company is to deliver clean, safe, reliable, and affordable energy to its customers while fostering innovation and sustainability. The company aims to meet the energy needs of the present and future generations by embracing new technologies, investing in renewable energy sources, and promoting environmental stewardship. The Southern Company offers products and services to meet the diverse energy requirements of its customers. Its subsidiaries include regulated regional electric utilities such as Alabama Power, Georgia Power, and Mississippi Power, which serve specific territories in their respective states. Additionally, Southern Power focuses on wholesale power generation, while Southern Company Gas serves gas utility customers and operates natural gas pipelines. The key customers of The Southern Company comprise residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. The company caters to the energy needs of households, businesses, and various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, education, and more. The Southern Company has established long-standing customer relationships by providing reliable and affordable energy solutions. The Southern Company has made significant strides in renewable energy development. The company operates or develops renewable facilities across the United States, including solar, wind, and biomass projects. It has also embarked on a notable milestone by constructing the country's first nuclear power units in 30 years at Plant Vogtle near Augusta, Georgia. These initiatives showcase The Southern Company's commitment to a diverse energy portfolio and its dedication to meeting the evolving energy demands of the market. The leadership team at The Southern Company is composed of experienced professionals who bring a wealth of expertise to their respective roles. Led by Executive Chairman Thomas A. Fanning, the management team drives the company's strategic direction and oversees its operations. Thomas A. Fanning plays a crucial role in the success of The Southern Company. With extensive experience in the energy industry, he has held various leadership positions within the company before assuming the role of Executive Chairman. Fanning's visionary approach and strategic acumen have been instrumental in shaping The Southern Company's growth and expansion. Other key management team members include Christopher C. Womack, the Chief Executive Officer and President. Womack brings a deep understanding of the energy industry and has significantly contributed to the company's operations and customer-focused initiatives. The Southern Company has exhibited healthy financial performance in recent years, reflecting its ability to meet customer demand and drive profitability. The company's revenue has demonstrated a positive long-term trend, indicating consistent growth and a robust customer base. This steady revenue growth showcases The Southern Company's market presence and ability to provide essential energy services to millions of customers. Earnings metrics have also shown a positive trajectory, underscoring the company's profitability and efficiency in managing its operations. The Southern Company's consistent earnings growth is a testament to its strong market position and effective cost management strategies. The net profit margin, a key financial indicator, has remained healthy. This metric highlights The Southern Company's ability to generate profits relative to its revenue. The company's ability to maintain a favorable net profit margin reflects its commitment to operational excellence and efficient utilization of its resources. The Southern Company's valuation metrics should be compared to its industry peers to gain insights into its market position and investor sentiment. The company's growth potential, financial performance, and market perception drive its valuation. Various factors, including industry trends, regulatory developments, and market conditions, can influence investor sentiment. Monitoring changes in investor sentiment provides valuable information for understanding the market's perception of The Southern Company and its prospects for future growth. The Southern Company operates within the broader electric services industry. As a leading utility holding company, it faces competition from other players in the industry who provide similar gas and electric services. However, The Southern Company has established a strong competitive position due to its extensive infrastructure, reliable service, and customer-focused approach. One of the advantages The Southern Company possesses is its diversified energy portfolio. The company operates in both the gas and electric sectors, allowing it to cater to a wide range of customer needs. This diversification reduces dependence on a single energy source and provides flexibility in meeting changing market demands. Additionally, The Southern Company has significantly invested in renewable energy projects, positioning itself as a leader in clean energy generation. By embracing renewable sources such as solar and wind power, the company contributes to environmental sustainability while capitalizing on the growing demand for clean energy solutions. The Southern Company also benefits from its strong regional presence. Operating in states like Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi, the company has established a deep understanding of the local market dynamics and regulatory frameworks. This localized knowledge enables The Southern Company to effectively adapt its services and strategies to meet each region's unique requirements. However, the industry presents challenges and disadvantages that The Southern Company must navigate. The regulatory environment can be complex and subject to change, requiring the company to stay abreast of evolving regulations and compliance requirements. Furthermore, technological advancements and shifts in consumer preferences pose challenges as the industry transitions to a more decentralized and sustainable energy landscape. The Southern Company has several growth opportunities in the evolving energy market. The increasing focus on renewable energy presents a significant avenue for expansion. By continuing to invest in renewable energy projects and exploring new technologies, The Southern Company can capitalize on the growing demand for clean energy solutions and reduce its carbon footprint. The transition to electric transportation also provides growth potential for The Southern Company. As the adoption of electric vehicles increases, the company can play a pivotal role in supporting the infrastructure needed for widespread charging stations and grid integration. Moreover, The Southern Company can leverage its expertise in nuclear energy to contribute to expanding the clean energy sector. The company's ongoing nuclear projects demonstrate its commitment to nuclear power as a reliable and sustainable energy source. While The Southern Company has positioned itself for growth, it faces certain risks and challenges. One of the primary risks is the potential impact of regulatory changes. Changes in regulations and policies can affect the company's operations, costs, and profitability. Adapting to evolving regulatory frameworks and maintaining compliance is crucial for The Southern Company to mitigate regulatory risks. The energy industry also faces uncertainties related to environmental concerns and climate change. Increased emphasis on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to cleaner energy sources may require significant investments and operational changes for The Southern Company. Adapting to these changes while ensuring the affordability and reliability of energy services poses a challenge. Another risk is the volatility of commodity prices, including natural gas and fuel costs. Fluctuations in these prices can impact The Southern Company's profitability and cost structure. Effective risk management strategies, including hedging and fuel cost recovery mechanisms, are essential for mitigating these risks. The Southern Company must also navigate technological disruptions and maintain its competitive edge in an increasingly digitized energy landscape. Embracing technological advancements, such as smart grid solutions and digital customer engagement, can enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Equity Residential (NYSE:EQR) pays an annual dividend of $2.65 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 4.89%. EQR 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 2 consecutive year(s), indicating that it does not yet have a strong track record of dividend growth. The dividend payout ratio is 119.91%. Payout ratios above 75% are not desirable because they may not be sustainable. Based on earnings estimates, EQR will have a dividend payout ratio of 66.75% next year. This indicates that the company will be able to sustain or increase its dividend. Read our dividend analysis for EQR. Neste Oyj provides renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel in Finland and other Nordic countries, Baltic Rim, other European countries, North and South America, and internationally. The company operates in four segments: Renewable Products, Oil Products, Marketing & Services, and Others. The Renewable Products segment produces, markets, and sells renewable diesel, renewable jet fuels and solutions, and renewable solvents, as well as raw material for bioplastics based on its technology to wholesale markets. The Oil Products segment produces, markets, and sells diesel fuel, gasoline, aviation and marine fuels, light and heavy fuel oils, and gasoline components, as well as special fuels, such as small-engine gasoline, solvents, liquid gases, and bitumen. This segment serves retailers and distributors, oil majors and trading companies, petrochemicals companies, and companies marketing lubricants and solvents. The Marketing & Services segment markets and sells cleaner fuels and oil products, and associated services to private motorists, industry, transport companies, farmers, and heating oil customers through a network of service stations, as well as direct sales. The Others segment offers engineering solutions. The company was formerly known as Neste Oil Oyj and changed its name to Neste Oyj in June 2015. Neste Oyj was founded in 1948 and is headquartered in Espoo, Finland. Deutsche Telekom AG, together with its subsidiaries, provides integrated telecommunication services. The company operates through five segments: Germany, United States, Europe, Systems Solutions, and Group Development. It offers fixed-network services, including voice and data communication services based on fixed-network and broadband technology; and sells terminal equipment and other hardware products, as well as services to resellers. The company also provides mobile voice and data services to consumers and business customers; sells mobile devices and other hardware products; and sells mobile services to resellers and to companies that purchases and markets network services to third parties, such as mobile virtual network operators. In addition, it offers internet services; internet-based TV products and services; and information and communication technology systems for multinational corporations and public sector institutions with an infrastructure of data centers and networks under the T-Systems brand, as well as call center services. Further, the company provides wireless communications services; and cloud services, digital solutions, security, and advisory solutions. The company has 248 million mobile customers and 22 million broadband customers, as well as 26 million fixed-network lines. The company was incorporated in 1995 and is headquartered in Bonn, Germany. First Colombia Gold Corp. engages in the exploration and production of oil and gas properties. The company operates through Energy and Mining divisions. It holds interests in 96 oil wells with a gross acreage of 4,302 acres in the counties of Cumberland, Monroe, Overton, and Clinton. The company is also involved in the precious minerals exploration business. It owns 2 unpatented mining claims in the Skip Silver prospect covering an area of approximately 40 acres in central Montana. The company was formerly known as Amazon Goldsands Ltd. and changed its name to First Colombia Gold Corp. in November 2010. First Colombia Gold Corp. was founded in 1997 and is based in Nashville, Tennessee. Fall is not only a great time to enjoy a pumpkin spice latte, its also a great time to plant trees. Severe weather, drought, poor planting practices or species selection, insects, disease and an aging tree population all have contributed to the decline in the number of community trees across the state. Planting new trees is an essential part of maintaining Nebraskas community forest, and fall planting offers important benefits. Just because we are a Prairie State doesnt mean we dont have or need trees. Across Nebraska, there are about 470,000 acres of community forests. These trees provide benefits like cleaner air, healthier soil, and wildlife habitats. Planting a tree provides much-needed shade during hot Nebraska summers, which helps reduce energy costs for homeowners, schools, and businesses. It may not seem like it, but fall is an optimal time for tree planting. Fall is a great time to plant trees in Nebraska because it allows trees to establish their root systems and get a jump start on spring growth. It also means less heat stress and possibly less watering for the installer, not to mention cooler temperatures. Species diversity is key when selecting a new tree. Its recommended to diversify the landscape so that no single species makes up more than 10% of the landscape. There are many benefits to diversifying the landscape. Dont only think about the aesthetic qualities that a diverse landscape has to offer, also think of the putting all of the eggs in one basket saying. If a disease or insect was to come in, infect or infest, it could potentially wipe out a species of tree. We have learned this in recent years the hard way with pine wilt infecting our Scotch and Austrian pines and the confirmation of Emerald Ash Borer affecting ash. Starting now to diversify the landscape can help to ensure many useful years out of the landscape. When selecting a tree species, considering a couple of key factors. Plant a different species than what is already growing in the neighborhood. Select a tree for your yard that provides some variety in leaf texture, form and fall color to create a diverse landscape year-round. Always take a trees mature height and width into consideration when selecting a species for planting. Also look for any above ground utilities, sightlines for the street and windows, and select the right tree for the growing conditions. Always call Diggers Hotline (811) at least three days before you do any digging. In addition to diversifying the landscape, adding trees to the landscape can also save you money. Over a 40-year period the net benefit of having a tree is amazing. The size of the tree can make a difference in the amount of benefit to a yard. A small tree can provide a net benefit of $600, a medium tree $1,360, and a large tree can provide a net benefit of over $3,000. If you are looking for a good tree to plant, the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum has a list that is a good place to start. The Trees for Western Nebraska list includes underutilized tree species organized by mature height and can be found at the following link https://go.unl.edu/treesforwesternne. Below are just a few to consider: Evergreen: Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) Black Hills spruce (Picea glauca var densata), Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa), and Limber pine (Pinus flexilis). Small to medium deciduous trees: Shantung maple (Acer truncatum), Miyabe maple (Acer miyabei), Gamble Oak (Quercus gambelii) Japanese or Pekin Tree lilac (Syringa reticulate, Ivory Silk), and Hophornbeam (Ostrya virginiana). Large deciduous trees: Kentucky coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus), Northern catalpa (Catalpa speciosa), Baldcypress (Taxodium distichum), Bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa), Chinkapin oak (Quercus muehlenbergii), English Oak (Quercus robur), Elm hybrids (Ulmus x (Accolade, Cathedral, Frontier, New Horizon, Pioneer, Triumph, and Vanguard),Black or Bigtooth Maple (Acer nigrum or Acer grandidentatumI) andHackberry (Celtis occidentalis). Take advantage of the cooler weather and add some variety to the trees in your neighborhood, it will pay off in the long run. LINCOLN The news series Speaking of Nebraska returns to Nebraska Public Media with four all-new episodes in October. Covering issues important to Nebraskans, the series airs on television at 7 p.m. Thursdays, Oct. 5, 12, 19 and 26 on Nebraska Public Media. It airs on the networks news/classical radio channel at 7:30 p.m. Fridays, Oct. 6, 13, 20 and 27, followed by Fresh Air. The schedule includes: Oct. 5 and 6: The Future of the Nebraska Legislature. In the aftermath of a heated legislative session, Nebraska Public Media News examines what is next for the legislature and the unicameral system. Topics in this episode will include the polarization of the legislative body, how the 2023 session might impact future sessions and a look at the history of the nations only unicameral. Oct. 12 and 13: Medical Marijuana and the Push for Legalization. A petition drive is currently being circulated to put medical marijuana on the ballot in 2024. The effort has been attempted, and failed, multiple times previously for varying reasons, but supporters are confident in the chances to put the issue in front of voters this time around. Nebraska Public Media News will examine what the legalization of medical marijuana could look like in Nebraska, and why some feel it isnt the states place to make that happen. Oct. 19 and 20: The State of Education in Nebraska. Education in Nebraska has seen numerous changes recently, ranging from leadership to policies. But are students sticking around post high school graduation? Nebraska Public Media News talks to decision makers at both high school and post-secondary education levels to learn what they are doing to keep Nebraska students in the Cornhusker State. Oct. 26 and 27: Challenges Facing Volunteer Fire Departments. Volunteer firefighters face a variety of challenges from flames and structure collapses to funding issues and old equipment. Nebraska Public Media News explores these challenges, and what is being done to help the more than 450 volunteer fire departments in the state. Watch past episodes of Speaking of Nebraska and review the most current list of weekly topics for the series at NebraskaPublicMedia.org/speakingofnebraska As of Dec. 30, the Hall County Department of Corrections will no longer house detainees from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The decision this week by the Hall County Commission was made in response to the federal governments requirements for the handling of ICE detainees. Severing ties with ICE was one of two subjects discussed by the Hall County Commission in executive session Tuesday. After coming out of executive session, the board unanimously voted to terminate the countys contract with ICE. Hall County has housed ICE detainees since before the current Hall County jail opened in 2008. On Tuesday and Wednesday, the jail contained 17 ICE detainees. The county receives $75 a day for each ICE detainee housed. The chairman of the Hall County board said after Tuesdays meeting that the county will incur no financial cost in cutting ties with ICE. The U.S. Marshals Service will use the beds vacated by the ICE detainees, Ron Peterson said. The Marshals Service will be happy to fill any available beds. Theyve told us that a number of times, Todd Bahensky, director of Hall County Department of Corrections, said Wednesday. The procedure required by ICE has become burdensome enough its just come to the point where its really difficult for us to keep up with it, Bahensky said. ICE has audited the jail about three times in the past year. The audits have been for different reasons and Im not saying theyre going after us, or anything like that, Bahensky said. Theyre just taking a different approach to these audits. ICE is tightening up and changing its standards and then adding requirements on to it, Bahensky said. Hall County has been trying to negotiate an increase in the rate paid by ICE, because the U.S. Marshals Service pays $105 a day for each of its inmates housed in the jail. But ICE wants the Hall County jail to put some other things in place before raising its daily rate. Theyre asking for us to put a lot of time and effort and money into it to be able to meet these requirements and its just not worth it for us, especially considering that the total of ICE detainees is not that large, Bahensky said. An ICE audit is not financial in nature. They just come in and they look at our standard operating procedures, look at the way we handle our paperwork and all that kind of stuff and make sure we meet their guidelines their standards, Bahensky said. Hall County Department of Corrections is required to comply with Nebraska jail standards. The jail meets all state requirements when it comes to safety and security. So Bahensky is confident the jail is doing things the right way. ICE is basically taking things to the next level, he said. ICE does not regard its detainees as criminals, Bahensky said. So the federal agency asks Hall County to treat them differently than people who have been charged or found guilty of a crime. ICE expects the jail to do things that are kind of above and beyond what a county facility typically does, Bahensky said. For instance, ICE asks that the detainees have additional access to phones. Measures like that make it difficult for the jail to comply, Bahensky said. Many of the ICE detainees are in the process of being returned to their native countries. Some of them are challenging deportment. Its not unusual for detainees to spend 30 days or more at the jail, Bahensky said. This week, the Hall County board sent a letter to Washington, D.C., signed by Peterson, severing the countys contract with ICE. After much discussion and consideration, Hall County has decided to end our contract with ICE for housing detainees, Peterson wrote. We appreciate the positive relationship weve had with all of the personnel over the years. I believe we were able to provide a valued resource to your local officers, providing them with a secure facility to house their detainees. However, it has become obvious that changes in regulations and the approach to audits have created circumstances that are no longer in our best interest, Peterson wrote. We pride ourselves in protecting inmates from assault, providing care and consideration for transgender individuals, and providing detainees with access to the courts and their attorneys, Peterson wrote. The extensive and increasing bureaucracy, however, has taken away from our ability to keep detainees safe and healthy rather than contributed to it. This process has been at the expense of efficiency and seems more intended to perpetuate the bureaucracy. I appreciate the opportunity to serve your agency and to continue a positive relationship, Peterson wrote. In the coming years, we hope that we can find another opportunity to be of service. KCA Deutag, a leading drilling, engineering and technology firm, has secured land drilling contracts and contract extensions worth $379 million, with existing and new customers in Saudi Arabia, Oman and Pakistan. The awards span key markets in the Middle East, solidifying KCA Deutag's position as a leading land drilling contractor in the area. In Saudi Arabia, KCA Deutag has been awarded contract extensions and an equipment upgrade project with a combined value of $292 million. The contract extensions amount to a total of 23 years of additional work across four rigs, while the equipment upgrade project includes the delivery of mechanised catwalks on two rigs to improve safety and operational performance. Contract extensions in Oman Further success in Oman has seen the company extend two existing contracts as well as gain one new contract award with a total value of $78 million. Two rigs in Oman have secured extensions for two and one-year contracts respectively while a third rig, currently stacked, has been awarded a new three-year contract, with options that could extend this to five-years. In Oman KCA Deutag has completed the build of the first two highly automated newbuild rigs which are currently undergoing commissioning and are due to be mobilised to their first location shortly. The company has finalised the design of the next two rigs with the customer and has begun the construction phase for rig delivery in 2024. Each of the four rigs will fulfil a 10-year drilling operations contract secured in January 2022. New Pakistan contract One rig in Pakistan has also secured a new one-year contract, with a value of $9 million with an existing customer in the country. KCA Deutag President of Land Rigs Simon Drew said: These contract awards and extensions in the Middle East demonstrate our strategic focus on sustainable growth in this key core region for our group. This is testament to our strong safety and operational performance as we collaborate with our customers to safely deliver additional drilling programmes and solutions for the energy transition in the region.--TradeArabia News Service Nebraska Extension will host a crop insurance workshop for agricultural producers and agribusiness professionals from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Oct. 19, at the Heartland Events Center in Grand Island, 700 E. Stolley Park Road. The event will focus on helping attendees improve their risk management strategies and boost their understanding of crop insurance. Crop and livestock producers, insurance agents, marketing consultants, agricultural educators and other risk management service providers are encouraged to attend. Understanding crop insurance can give producers a financial advantage, said Cory Walters, associate professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Failure to understand how it works can leave producers financially stressed and at a financial disadvantage. The workshop will include updates from the USDA Risk Management Agency, market outlooks for crops and livestock, and sessions on Annual Forage and Livestock Risk Protection programs, climate trends, stress and resiliency, the 2023 farm bill and strategies for margin protection. Lunch will be provided. The workshop is presented as part of a series produced in collaboration between Nebraska Extension, Kansas State University Research and Extension and Colorado State University Extension. Registration costs $100 and is required by Oct. 14. A late fee of $20 applies after Oct. 14. Registration can be completed at https://cropinsure.unl.edu. For questions, please contact Cory Walters at 402-472-0366 or cwalters7@unl.edu. YORK About 180 students from 14 schools descended on York Wednesday for the 33rd annual Cornerstone Career in Ag Day. Held at the Holthus Convention Center, students heard from representatives from a variety of ag-related fields, learning about risk management, veterinary work, livestock management, ag finance, maintenance work, trucking and more. "We're just trying to expose them to different careers, open their eyes to new opportunities," said Ty Heft with host Cornerstone Bank. "Give them the chance to ask questions, look at possible employers, to get them started down the right path." "We're just investing in the rural communities," Heft continued. "We know that the kids are the future and we need them to continue to be successful ourselves. Always investing in the next generation." Just a few businesses featured at the event included Central City Veterinary Clinic, Boeck Seed Services, Makovicka Welding LLC, Orthman Manufacturing Inc., Wild Roots Greenhouse and Akrs Equipment, among many others. Additionally, Sue Ellen Pegg with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln was on hand to play a Jeopardy-style game that taught kids about a variety of careers. Morgan Driewer of Cornerstone Insurance Group, speaking in a session on risk management and commodity marketing but giving advice applicable to all students, noted the importance of internships. "Go out of your comfort zone," she said about pursuing internship opportunities. Katie Hornung, the agriculture teacher at Northwest High School in Grand Island, said the program provides a great opportunity for students. She first brought a group in 2021 "and they loved it." It was a trip that even lead to a summer job for a student. Northwest came back this year, by request of the youngsters. "They (love) talking to people in different areas," she said. "Some of my kids are undecided what they want to go into, this gives them time to branch out and try a few different things to maybe get an idea of what they want to do. "They're getting a really broad look into what agriculture has to offer." Students learned about "Future career opportunities with their businesses and what they do," said Cora Hoffschneider of Centennial High School, who noted topics of interest for her were ag business and ag banking/finance. But as for what career she plans to pursue, she said, "I'm not really sure." And that's OK, keynote speaker Ralston Ripp, a Kearney native who works with her family to organize the Champions in the Valley, livestock progress show in Franklin. She also runs an online boutique with her sister, while her "day job" is in sales and marketing with Aurora Cooperative animal nutrition division Allied Nutrition. Ripp discussed figuring out a career path while at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She started with the plan to be an agriculture geneticist. She asked for a show of hands about future career plans, though only a smattering of hands were raised for a variety of job options. "I see a lot of 'I-don't-know's' and that's OK," she told the crowd, instead focusing on an important mantra that applies to whatever they do: "Take the first step." SAN ANTONIO The American soldier who sprinted into North Korea across the heavily fortified border between the Koreas more than two months ago arrived back in the U.S. early Thursday, video appeared to show. North Korea abruptly announced Wednesday that it would expel Pvt. Travis King. His return was organized with the help of ally Sweden and rival China, according to the White House. While officials have said King, 23, is in good health and the immediate focus will be on caring for him and reintegrating him into U.S. society, his troubles are likely far from over. King, who had served in South Korea, ran into the North while on a civilian tour of a border village on July 18, becoming the first American confirmed to be detained in the isolated country in nearly five years. At the time, he was supposed to be heading to Fort Bliss, Texas, following his release from prison in South Korea on an assault conviction. He has been declared AWOL from the Army. In many cases, someone who is AWOL for more than a month can automatically be considered a deserter. Punishment for going AWOL or desertion can vary, and it depends in part on whether the service member voluntarily returned or was apprehended. King's handover by the North Koreans makes that more complicated. Video aired Thursday by a Texas news station appeared to show King walking off a plane in San Antonio. Dressed in a dark top and pants, he could be seen speaking briefly with people waiting on the tarmac. He shook hands with one before being led into a building. Emails seeking comment were sent to Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, the Air Force and the Army. Officials earlier said he would be taken to Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston. He is expected to undergo psychological assessments and debriefings, and he will also get a chance to meet with family. He will be in military custody throughout the process since his legal situation is complicated. Many questions remain about King's case, including why he fled in the first place and why the North which has tense relations with Washington over Pyongyang's nuclear program, support for Russia's war in Ukraine and other issues agreed to turn him over. The White House has not addressed North Korean state media reports that King fled because of his dismay about racial discrimination and inequality in the military and U.S. society. The North's official Korean Central News Agency reported that King made such complaints but verifying that is impossible. On Wednesday, Swedish officials took King to the Chinese border, where he was met by U.S. Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns, the Swedish ambassador to China, and at least one U.S. Defense Department official. He was then flown to a U.S. military base in South Korea before heading to the U.S. His detention was relatively short by North Korean standards. Several recent American detainees had been held for over a year 17 months in the case of Otto Warmbier, a college student who was arrested during a group tour. Warmbier was in a coma when he was deported, and later died. North Korea has often been accused of using American detainees as bargaining chips, and there had also been speculation that the North would try to maximize the propaganda value of a U.S. soldier. But analysts say King's legal troubles could have limited his propaganda value, and Biden administration officials insisted they provided no concessions to North Korea to secure his release. A standoff that began Wednesday continued into 24 hours, as of press time, though law enforcement reported a hostage had been released by early afternoon. As of 5 p.m. (MT), a man who had barricaded himself in a Gering home Tuesday afternoon was still keeping officers at bay. However, an officer on scene told the Star-Herald that a woman being held as a hostage had been released about 1:30 p.m. The standoff began at about 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, when a Scottsbluff man, now identified as Bradley Garcia, 37, barricaded himself inside a residence at the end of 19th Street in Gering. Garcia has been in contact with law enforcement, confirmed by a Facebook live video that he shared online. The woman who had been hostage is also heard talking to law enforcement. The video has since been removed, and the Star-Herald is waiting for the standoff to be resolved before detailing contents of the video. She is reported to have been Garcias sister-in-law. Prior to the standoff, Overman released Wednesday, a Scotts Bluff County Sheriffs deputy had attempted to stop Garcia on Five Rocks Road for a traffic violation and Garcia refused to stop. A Gering Police officer also become involved in the pursuit, which ended as Garcia crashed his vehicle into a garage in the 2300 block of 19th Street in Gering and fled into the home. During the pursuit, Garcia allegedly fired at the deputy, but did not strike him or his vehicle. Once inside the home, Garcia took two juvenile girls and a woman hostage, but eventually, he allowed the two girls to leave the home. The woman was released on Wednesday afternoon; details about her condition or her release had not yet been made available as of publication. Law enforcement have remained stationed at the 19th Street and Kings Road area since about 3:30 p.m. Tuesday. As the standoff has continued, Overman released Garcia has allegedly fired at officers multiple times using more than one weapon. Officers have not fired at Garcia at anytime as of late Wednesday morning, according to the release. Star-Herald reporters at the scene heard gunshots Tuesday afternoon. Much of Wednesday morning, the scene remained quiet. However, early Wednesday afternoon, Star-Herald reporters at the scene observed explosions, heard loud pops and bangs, believed from comments from officers on the scene to be gases being released into the home. Authorities were also using drones to monitor the home and an ambulance and fire truck were among the vehicles pulling up to the scene. Throughout the night, vehicles from multiple law enforcement agencies, including a SWAT vehicle, remained positioned during the standoff at or near the intersection. By Wednesday, the response included specialized teams from the Nebraska State Patrol and the FBI, including a Hostage Rescue Team from Quantico, Virginia. Troy Brown, chief deputy with the Scotts Bluff County Sheriffs Department, told the Star-Herald that Garcia had reneged multiple times in negotiations on plans to surrender or release the woman. Were hoping he wears down and decides enough is enough, she gets to come out and he walks out, Brown said late Wednesday morning. Among the apparatus at the scene has been armored vehicles used by the Nebraska State Patrol, the Scotts Bluff County SWAT team and a tactical vehicle used by the Alliance Police Department. At some points, reporters have estimated as many as 40 officers on scene. On Wednesday, law enforcement officers used Northfield Church to stage during the standoff, explaining some of the lack of activity at the scene. Garcia had not yet been reported to have surrendered or the standoff resolved. Throughout the entirety of the event, streets in the area have been closed by law enforcement or firefighters. Neighbors who live in the area have been allowed to walk to and from their homes when it is safe to do so, reporters advise. The standoff has also effected schools in the community. Shortly after law enforcement reported shots fired Tuesday, school officials immediately put all schools in Gering on lockdown, which was then narrowed to Gering High School and Northfield at about 3:38 p.m. At about 5:04 p.m., Gering police and emergency responders started a controlled release of students from Gering High School. A controlled release at Northfield Elementary and at other schools in the district had occurred earlier. By 6:09 p.m., all students had been released from schools and all activities and other events were cancelled. On Wednesday morning, Gering Public Schools announced it was cancelling schools for the day out of an abundance of caution. Visit starherald.com for more on this story as it develops. PHOTOS: At the scene of Gering standoff Authorities have apprehended the suspect in a two-day standoff. At of 7:45 p.m., a Star-Herald reporter on scene reported several flash bangs and gunshots. Officers were heard shooting commands and soon after, scanner traffic indicated the suspect, Bradley Garcia, had been taken into custody. According to scanner traffic, the situation is being "demobilized." The man is reported to have suffered minor injuries and is being transported to Regional West Medical Center by ambulance. The standoff had lasted nearly 29 hours. A hostage had been released at about 1:30 p.m. Wednesday. The standoff began at about 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, when a Scottsbluff man, identified as Garcia, 37, barricaded himself inside a residence at the end of 19th Street in Gering. Garcia has been in contact with law enforcement, confirmed by a Facebook live video that he shared online. The woman who had been hostage is also heard talking to law enforcement. The video has since been removed. Prior to the standoff, a Scotts Bluff County Sheriffs deputy had attempted to stop Garcia on Five Rocks Road for a traffic violation and Garcia refused to stop. A Gering Police officer also become involved in the pursuit, which ended as Garcia crashed his vehicle into a garage in the 2300 block of 19th Street in Gering and fled into the home. During the pursuit, Garcia allegedly fired at the deputy but did not strike him or his vehicle. Once inside the home, Garcia is accused of taking two juvenile girls and a woman hostage, but eventually he allowed the two girls to leave the home. The woman was released on Wednesday afternoon; details about her condition were not yet available. Law enforcement have remained stationed at the 19th Street and Kings Road area since about 3:30 p.m. Tuesday. Garcia has allegedly fired at officers multiple times using more than one weapon. Officers had not fired at Garcia as of late Wednesday morning, according to the release. Star-Herald reporters at the scene heard gunshots Tuesday afternoon. Much of Wednesday morning, the scene remained quiet. However, early Wednesday afternoon, Star-Herald reporters at the scene observed explosions, heard loud pops and bangs, believed from comments from officers on the scene to be gases being released into the home. Authorities were also using drones to monitor the home and an ambulance and firetruck were among the vehicles pulling up to the scene. Throughout the night, vehicles from multiple law enforcement agencies, including a SWAT vehicle, remained positioned at or near the intersection. By Wednesday, the response included specialized teams from the Nebraska State Patrol and the FBI, including a Hostage Rescue Team from Quantico, Virginia. Throughout the entirety of the event, streets in the area were closed by law enforcement or firefighters. Neighbors who live in the area were allowed to walk to and from their homes when it is safe to do so, reporters advise. The standoff has affected schools in the community. Shortly after law enforcement reported shots fired Tuesday, school officials immediately put all schools in Gering on lockdown, which was then narrowed to Gering High School and Northfield at about 3:38 p.m. On Wednesday morning, Gering Public Schools announced it was canceling schools for the day out of an abundance of caution. After the conclusion of the standoff, Gering schools issued a release that classes would resume as normal Thursday. PHOTOS: At the scene of Gering standoff A Lincoln man arrested in Kansas is facing more than a dozen charges related to sex crimes involving a teenage victim. Police in Riley County, Kansas, arrested 24-year-old Nicholas Seeman at about 9:30 p.m. Monday. Along with rape, Seeman, 24, is charged with numerous counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child and criminal sodomy. He's also charged with sexual exploitation of a child, criminal sodomy and indecent solicitation of a child. Riley County police said in a report that the victim is somewhere between 14 and 18 years old. The alleged crimes were originally reported in March. Seeman's bond was set at $300,000, and he remains in the Riley County Jail. 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Together with the 60 ships that were contracted for by QatarEnergy in the first phase of the program, which will be built at Korean and Chinese shipyards, todays agreement brings the total number of confirmed new LNG vessels to be delivered to QatarEnergy and its affiliates to 77, with more to follow. To commemorate this occasion, a special ceremony was held in Seoul and was attended by Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, the Minister of State for Energy Affairs, the President & CEO of QatarEnergy, senior executives from QatarEnergy, QatarEnergy LNG and HD Hyundai. The agreement was signed by Al-Kaabi and Ka Sam-hyun , the Vice Chairman & CEO of HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (KSOE). Commenting on this occasion, Al-Kaabi said This is another milestone in our long-term relationship with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and the Korean shipbuilding industry in general, which is built on the strong and strategic partnership between the State of Qatar and the Republic of Korea. Al-Kaabi added: These 17 LNG carriers will be built by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries to the highest technical and environmental standards and specifications. Further, the vessels are designed to achieve optimal fuel efficiency and significant reduction in carbon emissions. This emphasises our continued commitment as a leader in sustainability, innovation, and growth within the LNG industry." Al-Kaabi concluded his remarks by congratulating both sides and extending his thanks to the working teams for their efforts that led to this important collaboration. On his part, Ka Sam-hyun said: We value our partnership with Qatar, and we are very proud of taking part in the worlds largest LNG new build project. We firmly believe that this opportunity will further consolidate the long-standing cooperative relationship between our two countries and companies. We are fully committed to contributing to this project with the most advanced technology and expertise to ensure safer, more efficient, and reliable transportation of LNG from Qatar to all over the world. QatarEnergys historic LNG ship-building program is the largest of its kind in the history of the LNG industry and will play a pivotal role in meeting its future shipping requirements as it expands Qatars LNG production capacity. --OGN/ TradeArabia News Service The best bang for your buck! This option enables you to purchase online 24/7 access and receive the Sunday, Tuesday & Thursday print edition at no additional cost * Print edition only available in our carrier delivery area. Allow up to 72 hours for delivery of your print edition to begin. To sign-up for EZ-Pay, call us at (903) 785-6901 or e-mail us at circulation@theparisnews.com. We will use the information you provide to change your current billing to EZ-PAY. Your current subscription delivery schedule will not be changed. No refunds for early cancellations. Remainder of early cancellation funds will be donated to Newspapers in Education. Southern Illinois women will be able to share and grow in their Christian faith through a one-day event featuring speakers, breakout sessions and more next month in Carbondale. Sisters Forward, a non-denominational group of women, will be holding their first-ever Southern Illinois conference on Saturday, Oct. 14 at Lakeland Baptist Church in Carbondale, says Angie Baughman, one of the organizers for the event. She said the event will include live worship, inspiring speakers and opportunities for area women to gather together. Sisters Forward is a collaborative group of Christian writers and speakers who have been putting together devotionals and doing in-person gatherings for about three years now, said Baughman, who lives in Carbondale. We have traveled and done events in Indiana, but this is the first time that they're coming this way, so I'm super, super excited to be hosting them. Baughman said the focus of the October event will be setting minds on things that are pure, lovely, good and commendable, stemming from Philippians 4:8 in the New Testament. The event is non-denominational and we would love anyone who would just like to receive encouragement, fellowship, teaching and music, she explained. There will be a variety of speakers and then four breakout sessions on specific topics in the afternoon. She said gatherings of this type have always been important for Christian women, but are even more so now. Especially since COVID, Ive heard a lot of women in our area talking about how maybe church attendance has been down or church programming has shrunk and sometimes womens ministry is the first priority in a church budget, she said. This is a place where we can come together and offer womens ministry, an opportunity to be encouraged and re-invited to make Bible study and time with the Lord a priority in their lives. During the event, five speakers will share the platform in the morning followed by breakout sessions covering everything from Bible study methods to networking in Christian circles. She said childcare also will be available. Baughman said she expects 75 or more women to participate and hopes all will be impacted by what they learn. My hope is that women will come and experience just a taste of the transformation that is possible by connecting with the Lord and that they will be inspired to receive that transformation for themselves, she said. Conference registration is $25. A sign-up link and additional information is available by visiting www.livesteadyon.com/sistersforward-registration/. Photos: Castle Park is a magical memorial in Carbondale CARBONDALE A community read-in, panel discussion and a presentation on First Amendment freedoms will be the focal points when Morris Library at Southern Illinois University recognizes Banned Books Week Oct. 2-6. On Monday, Oct. 2, Morris Library, the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois and Carbondale Public Library will hold a community read-in and panel discussion from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. in the rotunda adjacent to the John C. Guyon Auditorium as part of the ACLU of Illinois statewide Banned Books Week. On Friday, Oct. 6, from noon to 1 p.m., Aaron Lisec, a research specialist with Morris Librarys Special Collections Research Center, will hold a presentation on the librarys McCoy press freedom collection in the librarys Hall of Presidents and Chancellors. The events are free and open to the public. We hope that the audience will think more deeply about their hard won right to freedom of speech and freedom to follow their curiosity wherever it leads, said John Pollitz, dean of library affairs at SIU Carbondale. We hope they learn more about the resources available to them in the Special Collections Research Center and our history in supporting the right to free speech. The American Library Association's Office for Intellectual Freedom documented 1,269 demands to censor library books and resources in 2022, the highest number of attempted book bans since the organization began compiling data more than 20 years ago, Pollitz said, and book challenges are up 16% between January and August 2023, compared to the same period a year ago. In Illinois, there were 43 documented attempts to restrict access directed at 69 unique titles, with the most challenged being the 2019 book Gender Queer: A Memoir. Teachers and librarians regularly face challenges to the books they assign in the classroom or have in their collections, Pollitz said. Public university libraries have less exposure to these challenges as they are expected to represent all sides of topics. Gov. J.B. Pritzker in June signed legislation that made Illinois the first state in the nation to outlaw book bans. Pollitz said Morris Library has incorporated the ALAs Library Bill of Rights into its mission statement. Readings, discussion highlight Oct. 2 program During the read-in, organizers will discuss book banning and censorship challenges in Illinois and across the country, read from favorite banned books and share resources on speaking at public forums. Jennifer Horton, associate dean in SIUs Library Affairs; Kevin Fee, the ACLU of Illinois special counsel; Jennifer Robertson, Carbondale Public Library director, and Ed Yohnka, ACLU of Illinois director of communications and public policy, will discuss the importance of engaging around ideas of censorship. SIU Carbondale is hosting one of the five read-ins around the state. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required. McCoy collection featured on Oct. 6 Lisec will discuss the history of Morris Librarys Freedom of the Press collection, established by the librarys first director and journalism professor, Ralph E. McCoy. The collection, housed in the Special Collections Research Center, consists of thousands of books, pamphlets, manuscripts and letters that document the history of censorship in the English-speaking world over the last four centuries. Recent additions to the collection include an emphasis on books that have been banned or challenged, said Anne Marie Hamilton-Brehm, associate dean of library affairs. Lisec will also discuss how McCoy established the banned book collection and why it was vital to preserve challenged books then as it is now, Hamilton-Brehm said. Books from the collection will be on display in glass cases. Morris Library, opened in 1956, is SIUs sixth library dating back to the universitys charter in 1869. The library purchased McCoys renowned collection in 1981 during Morris Librarys 25th anniversary. COLUMBIA -- As part of the culmination of Workforce Development Month activities, Gov. Henry McMaster and S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce Executive Director William Floyd presented The Boeing Company with the 2023 Workforce Champion Award at The Governors Mansion. This award honors an employer or individual who has displayed extraordinary effort or innovation in developing and connecting students with employment opportunities in South Carolina. Boeing was selected as the honoree because of their exceptional outreach efforts in the state, including their DreamLearners program, which has reached more than 1.2 million educators, students, and community members since 2012. Boeing award Gov. Henry McMaster presents the 2023 Workforce Champion award to Boeing representatives. As part of this program, Boeing has hosted hundreds of field trips and student visits to its North Charleston factory, as well as virtual events, with the goal of inspiring young people to develop skills in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). We are experiencing an economic boom in South Carolina, and we have the people, institutions, and talent lined up and ready to create great prosperity in our state, McMaster said. Boeing is educating and training South Carolinians to be ready for opportunities within their company. They are not only producing the planes, but producing happy, satisfied workers who can support strong families. Boeing was nominated by DEWs Regional Workforce Advisors (RWAs). Working with educators, parents, students, and employers, these RWAs introduce middle and high school students to multiple careers by facilitating conversations, organizing career events and communicating the employment opportunities in the state. In collaboration with the RWAs, Boeing has engaged schools in every South Carolina county through its Boeing Days program. During the visits, Boeing representatives educate students and community members about the company, aerospace, advanced manufacturing jobs and careers in STEM. It is my privilege, as the executive director of DEW, to present the inaugural Workforce Champion Award to The Boeing Company, Floyd said. It was Boeings long-standing commitment, innovation, and investment in the school-to-work pipeline that made them this years winner. Boeing is actively involved in educating our young people about the importance of the aerospace industry and careers in STEM in a way that makes it easily understood and achievable. The award was presented to Lindsay Leonard, Boeings senior director of government operations in South Carolina, and Frank Hatten, education relations specialist. Boeing is committed to helping students of all backgrounds reach their potential, and we are honored to accept this award that recognizes the importance of investing in South Carolinas future workforce, Leonard said. We are passionate about creating a cradle-to-career pathway for young people, giving them the opportunity to learn the skills needed to thrive in a career and beyond. Thank you to Gov. McMaster, DEW and the Regional Workforce Advisors who share this passion and have helped make Boeing Days and DreamLearners successful. In 2022, Boeing contributed nearly $50 million in support of STEM education and workforce development programs nationwide. Since 2010, about half of the more than $80 million Boeing has invested in South Carolina non-profits has gone toward educational programs for school-aged children across the state. "The Boeing Company is the ideal recipient of our agencys first-ever Workforce Champion Award because they are an employer that is deeply invested in our students, Floyd said. We encourage all employers in South Carolina, regardless of size or industry, to follow their lead and help build the school-to-work pipeline in their local areas. Whether it be a business adopting a local school, offering internships or apprenticeships, or simply participating in job fairs and career events at schools young people are the future of our workforce and the best, long-term investment an employer can make. Claflin University will host its annual United Negro College Fund Ecumenical Day of Prayer Breakfast at 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 28, in the Auxiliary Gym of the Jonas T. Kennedy Health and Wellness Complex. The event is a fundraiser to support scholarships for Claflin University students. Admission is $50 for individual tickets. The Rev. Dr. J. Derrick Cattenhead, pastor of the North Orangeburg United Methodist Church, will be the keynote speaker. Cattenhead is from Lake City and graduated from Lake City High School. He earned a bachelor of science degree from the University of South Carolina in Columbia, a master's degree in human resource management from Keller Graduate School of Management, a master's degree in divinity from Gammon Theological Seminary at The ITC, and a doctor of ministry from Candler School of Theology at Emory University. Cattenhead has served as a mentor in various school systems and other agencies throughout South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia and Florida. He is a United States Navy veteran and a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Additionally, he has served as a trustee and advisor for several civic and community organizations. Cattenhead has served in various capacities in the United Methodist Church. He was a student pastor at Mount Zion United Methodist Church in Timmonsville, a local pastor at Salem United Methodist Church in Florence, and an associate pastor at Central United Methodist Church in Florence. He is currently the senior pastor at North Orangeburg United Methodist Church. He is also the chairperson of proclamation and preaching and parliamentarian on the SCUMC Board of Ordained Ministry and a member of the Board of Higher Education and Ministry. Cattenhead is an ordained elder in full connection in the South Carolina Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. Cattenhead is married to the former Chasie Latoya McClam, a certified educator and an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. They are the parents of four children, Derrick, Tyler, Jynesis and Chase. He strongly advocates for initiatives addressing political practices perpetuating poverty, homelessness, social injustice, sexism and racism. His life mission statement is "I endeavor to inspire, encourage and empower ALL people to move towards Godly living with the help of the Holy Spirit." To purchase tickets or sponsorships call 803-535-5776. MOUNT PLEASANT On Oct. 5-7, veterans of the USS Yorktown (CV-10) will gather for the 75th Anniversary Reunion of the USS Yorktown CV-10 Association at Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum. The reunion brings veterans who served on the USS Yorktown from World War II through the Vietnam War back to the ship, where they will be available for a Meet and Greet with local families and visitors on Saturday, October 7 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Founded in 1948 by World War II veterans, members of the USS Yorktown CV-10 Association meet annually to celebrate the history of the USS Yorktown, reunite with old friends and share memories of their time aboard the USS Yorktown. The first reunion of the USS Yorktownwas a time for the men of WWII to renew old friendships over a steak dinner, said Ron Meacham, Events Chairman, USS Yorktown CV-10 Association. Our reunions are still a time to renew old friendship and trade stories, but now we take pride in helping bring the ship to life for the visitors. The USS Yorktown CV-10 Association was instrumental in saving the USS Yorktown from being scrapped in 1973. For nearly fifty years since the ship arrived in Mount Pleasant, these veterans have donated for restoration projects and provided countless artifacts and archival materials for visitors to enjoy. To recognize their contributions and to honor their service, Governor Henry McMaster signed a proclamation naming Oct. 1-7, 2023, USS Yorktown Veterans Week, encouraging locals and visitors to the area to take advantage of this week, during their reunion, to visit the USS Yorktown at Patriots Point and learn about the history of The Fighting Lady from the veterans who served on her. The Meet and Greet is included in the admission to Patriots Point. Members of the media are additionally invited to attend the Memorial Service at 9 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 6. BEIRUT The Franco-Lebanese writer Amin Maalouf was elected as Permanent Secretary of the French Academy on Thursday, as announced by the institution on its website. He succeeds Helene Carrere dEncausse, who passed away on Aug. 5 of this year. "Academie francaise" (French Academy) is the official body in France responsible for regulating and standardizing the French language. It is also known as the "Academie des Inscriptions et Belles-Lettres" (Academy of Inscriptions and Beautiful Letters). The French Academy's primary mission, according to its website, is to protect the purity and integrity of the French language. It defines and maintains the rules of grammar, orthography and vocabulary. Amin Maalouf, the recipient of the 1993 Goncourt Prize for his novel "The Rock of Tanios," has authored 14 novels and essays, including "Leo the African" (1986), "Samarkand" (1988), "In the Name of Identity: Violence and the Need to Belong" (1998), "Origins: A Memoir" (2004), "The Disoriented" (2012), and his latest work, "The Sinking of Civilizations," published in 2019. Maalouf was elected to the French Academy on June 23, 2011, occupying the seat previously held by Claude Levi-Strauss. In Lebanon, several political figures praised the election of Amin Maalouf. Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati congratulated Maalouf in comments relayed by the state-run National News Agency. "I, like all other Lebanese people in Lebanon, France, and around the world, received the news of your election as the Secretary-General of the French Academy with great pride," said Mikati. "Your diverse cultural background and profound human experiences, which have enriched your writings and your role in promoting the French language and the values it carries, have contributed to your well-deserved position among the elite." "It is not surprising that Amin Maalouf ascends to the throne of the French language," wrote Kataeb party leader Samy Gemayel on the social network X. Gemayel lauded the "inestimable success" of the Franco-Lebanese writer. Michel Moawad, a former presidential candidate, thanked the author for "moving from complete obscurity in Lebanon to shine in France" and for sending a "civilized message to the West and the world, stating that Lebanon does not die." On the occasion of World Tourism Day 2023, plans for the new Riyadh School for Tourism and Hospitality with a focus on bridging the current skills gaps in tourism was announced. Leaders from every global region united around a shared determination to invest in the sector's growth and transformation at the World Tourism Day. Hosted by Saudi Arabia, the official celebrations in Riyadh brought together more than 50 ministers of tourism alongside hundreds of high-level delegates from both the public and private sectors. They were joined by UNWTO's Member States and other tourism stakeholders around the world celebrating in their own countries. Welcoming them all, UNWTO Secretary General Zurab Pololikashvili and Saudi Arabia's Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb, emphasised the need for the whole of the sector to step up investments that deliver for 'people, planet and for prosperity'. Held around the theme of Tourism and Green Investments, the celebrations of the Global Day of Observation have been the biggest and most impactful on record. Pololikashvili and Al Khateeb jointly announced plans for a new Riyadh School for Tourism and Hospitality. The school will offer eight levels of educational programmes, ranging from certificates through to courses at the Bachelors and Master's degree level, with a clear focus on bridging the current skills gaps in tourism. UNWTO also announced the winners of its inaugural Women in Tech Start-Up competition. The winning women-led enterprises were selected for the relevance of their work to tourism for development and for their potential to scale up. All of them will benefit from support and mentorship from UNWTO's innovation network. Al Khateeb reaffirmed the kingdom's commitment to tourism development and strong support of UNWTO's mission. He said: "It is a privilege and honour to host World Tourism Day in Riyadh. Let's celebrate our achievements in coming back strongly from the pandemic. But let's also travel with confidence into the future. A future where large countries and smaller countries can work together to achieve amazing things. And let's all move in harmony towards a new horizon for global tourism." Pololikashvili said: "Tourism must lead the way in accelerating our shift to greater resilience and sustainability. For this, we need more investment, as well as the right kind of investment. That is the central message of this year's World Tourism Day, a message that is being amplified from the official hosts of the celebrations, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and echoed around the world by our Members everywhere." Exploring the 'Tourism and Green Investments' theme, the official celebrations featured a series of expert panels, each focusing one key priority for the sector right now. These included: investing in people, through education and jobs; investing in destinations, including new destinations and products to reduce overcrowding and diversify benefits; investing in innovation and entrepreneurship, and investing in green transformation. The expert-led discussions, which featured contributions from ministers of tourism as well as from business and finance leaders, were complemented by strong actions as UNWTO announced several key initiatives. - TradeArabia News Service You have reached a premium content area of Transitions. To read this entire article please login if you are already a Transitions subscriber. Not a subscriber? Subscribe today for access to: Full access to the website, including premium articles videos, country reports and searchable archives (containing over 25,000 articles). Want to serve on Casper City Council? If you live in Ward 1, nows your chance. In light of the Sept. 21 resignation of former mayor Bruce Knell, City Council needs someone to fill its empty Ward 1 seat. The new councilor would take office in October and serve until Jan. 7, 2025. To put your name in, all the city needs is a filled-out application which asks for some basic contact information and a copy of your resume by 5 p.m. on Oct. 12. Resumes should include an overview of your educational history, work history and background in community service. The application can be viewed on the citys website. Candidates will get the chance to share a bit about themselves and why they want the job ahead of the Oct. 17 regular meeting, the citys website states. According to a Sept. 22 memo briefing the Council on the application process, each candidate will have 10 minutes to answer the following questions: Explain why you want to serve on the City Council.; Describe your qualifications and how they will benefit the City of Casper.; What is your relevant experience serving on City Council or a similar board?; How have you been following Councils activity lately? Please explain the current issues that the City Council is facing at this time.; and Tell us about your availability to serve the time commitments of Council meetings and board meetings throughout the week/month. In order to keep everything uniform, the Council wont be asking any follow-up questions during the interviews. Applications should be mailed or dropped off at the City Clerks Office on the Mezzanine floor of the Casper Business Center, located at 123 W. First Street. You can also email them to the clerks office at cityclerkrecords@casperwy.gov. For the most part, Ward 1 falls between McKinley and Poplar streets. A map displaying the exact boundaries of each ward is available on the citys website. Normally, City Councilors are directly elected by voters. When theres a vacancy, though, its up to City Council to appoint a replacement. Knell resigned from the Council Sept. 21 following claims he physically attacked his wife during a recent trip to Austin, Texas to watch the Cowboys game. Knell has denied the accusations, and as of last week was not under investigation by law enforcement for the alleged attack. A Casper teen pleaded guilty Thursday morning in connection with two separate, but related July shootings, as part of a plea agreement with state prosecutors. Endre Wass pleaded guilty to two counts of aggravated assault and battery, one count of witness intimidation and one count of property damage in Natrona County District Court. The shooting that injured a woman took place July 11 and a drive-by shooting of a Bighorn Road home occurred on July 13. At the Natrona County Fairgrounds, I shot out of a car window, Wass said. Two days later, Me and three other people drove by the witnesses house, and I shot out the window. He had no idea who was in the home at the time, Wass said. It is likely restitution will be an issue at your sentencing hearing, Judge Catherine Wilking said in court Thursday. Wass was facing an additional three charges, but those are expected to be dropped at sentencing, Wilking said, as she detailed the plea agreement. It is expected Wass will testify truthfully against any co-defendants namely Benjamin Jackson-Rocca in any potential trials, too. Wass is expected to serve six to eight years, Wilking said. Despite being 16 years old at the time of his crimes, Wass would normally serve the sentence at Wyoming State Penitentiary because he was tried as an adult. But state prosecutors will recommend a youthful offender boot camp instead, as part of the agreement, Wilking said. He turned towards his mother and other family and friends and mouthed, I love you, as he exited the courtroom. Wass was originally facing a combined maximum sentence of 70 years on all seven charges. His sentencing date has not yet been scheduled. On July 11, Wass intended to shoot his new-girlfriends teenage ex-boyfriend after they were feuding and threatening each other over her for weeks, the affidavit states. He missed and hit an 18-year-old Casper woman. She was struck by a bullet on her left shin just a few inches above her ankle. Wass then drove with friends to a Big Horn Road home on July 13, where he was responsible for a drive-by shooting. He shot around 10 bullets into the home, he said in court Thursday. A witness to the fair shooting, who he knew talked to law enforcement and would likely testify, lived inside that home, he said. One of the bullets went into a 12-year-old childs bedroom, the affidavit in the case states. It appeared to be nothing more than sheer luck that the child and other members of the home were not struck by gunfire. Your news on your smartphone Your story lives in Wyoming, and our new mobile app is designed to make sure you dont miss breaking news, the latest scores, the weather forecast and more. From easy navigation with the swipe of a finger to personalized content based on your preferences to customized text sizes, the Star-Tribune app is built for you and your life. Dont have the app? Download it today from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. FORMER finance minister, Winston Dookeran, is calling for a shift in the Caribbean integration model in order to forge wider convergence spaces for approaching production, the institutional framework and economic frontiers. Dookeran, an economist and former central bank governor, said the current integration model seems limited by size, design an inertia. Various business chambers have welcomed the call-out of members of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force volunteers to support the crime fight. However, they have some concerns. This follows a proclamation from President Christine Kangaloo on Monday calling out to duty 100 Trinidad and Tobago Volunteer Defence Force to strengthen the TTDF capabilities to support the police The proclamation went into effect on Monday and will end February 29, 2024. 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. Tucson High students coming out of classrooms after campus fights erupted Sept. 13 encountered police with guns still drawn, and some later had panic attacks, a teacher told the district board. School officials prematurely cleared a hard lockdown that day before the Tucson Police Department had left campus, adding to the chaos and confusion and its happened before school staff members told administrators. Its the second time that miscommunications between (administration), campus safety and TPD led to direct confrontations between police officers and scared teenagers, teacher Katherine Paul told the Tucson Unified School District Governing Board Tuesday night. Its the second time that Ive taken care of students in my classroom who were having panic attacks because they did not know where to go. Paul added that it was also the second time a lunchtime lockdown occurred without clear procedure. She said she witnessed monitors struggling to guide students to safety and large parts of the school not hearing about the lockdown, due to an inadequate alert system. As the fights were reported at Tucson High Magnet School on Sept. 13, rumors of a gun on campus circulated. Tucson police responded to the scene. Six students were arrested and one staff member was injured and received medical treatment at the scene. District officials said there was no gun and police did not find any weapon in a school search. Tucson police officers responded as they typically would if there are reports of a weapon on campus, Sgt. Richard Gradillas, a TPD communications officer, told the Star on Wednesday. Gradillas said the police department utilizes all personnel and tools it can when responding to a call like that, including drawing guns. They dont look that friendly, but theyre also not meant to look friendly, he said. Were making sure that were ready, just in case that was legitimate, but there was actually no weapon found on campus, he said. At the time of the incident, emergency calls and social media posts indicated there was a weapon on campus, Gradillas said. Last week, Tucson High staff and the Tucson Education Association distributed a letter to the school's and TUSD's administrators demanding improvements to campus security. One of the demands pointed to a communication breakdown between staff, administrators and TPD. Gradillas said he was unaware of the communication situation. In their letter, the staff demanded an amendment to lockdown procedures to specify administration cannot lift a lockdown without TPDs clearance. Tucson High Principal Elizabeth Rivera has not publicly commented on the incident or the letter. District Superintendent Gabriel Trujillo spoke at the Governing Board meeting about the importance of district transparency and to be clear with what the next steps are following the unfortunate, very disruptive campus disturbance. There have been reports from staff that the school's intercom system was not sufficient at the time. Cecelia Garcia, director of Tucson High's gallery, said during public comment at the board meeting that the area she is charged with does not have an intercom at all. "Our team did discover that across the campus there were eight speakers that were identified that need to be addressed," Trujillo said. "Work orders have been put in place for those. Our team is going to be repairing those this week." I'm glad that we are listening and hearing about some of these issues and addressing them unfortunately, it took an incident to do so, Trujillo said. Several speakers took the microphone Tuesday night, many of them faculty and staff, most to talk about their experiences during the disturbance. Other speakers discussed campus police presence. One said he thought the Sept. 13 response was over the top. Another speaker suggested adding school resource officers to the campus employee roster. A teacher read a letter on behalf of a colleague. It said, in part: I believe the district should hire more monitors and community members as counselors to restrain students instead of calling police officers . These issues should be handled by our monitors, certified adults from the community and district security officers who are trained to stop a fight among school students. I strongly oppose the presence of police officers on our campus. Governing Board Member Jennifer Eckstrom said she wanted a security briefing, in part to show how concerns were being addressed. As a parent, I think parents need to know what exactly happens during these lockdowns and when those lockdowns are lifted and what students are supposed to be doing during that time, Eckstrom said. When that lockdown is lifted, who has that say and will police still be in the area on campus? Theres a lot of things that concern me with this incident. Trujillo told the board: We want to clarify the misinformation and more importantly, talk about our next steps in response to the employee concerns that we have received. We want to demonstrate with actions that were going to take the appropriate steps to address the concerns that have been communicated to us. PHOENIX Arizonas top elected Republican is refusing to recognize the executive deputy directors named by Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs. State Treasurer Kimberly Yee said she did not allow those Hobbs appointed as heads of two state agencies to sit at a meeting this week of the State Board of Investment. That panel reviews the states $30 billion in investments and serves as trustee for certain funds. It also, by law, includes the directors of the departments of Administration and of Insurance and Financial Institutions. Only thing is, there currently are no directors, at least not officially. Thats because Hobbs, upset with the Senates failure to act on her nominations of directors, not only withdrew them from consideration but removed them as interim directors. She then had them reinstalled through a procedural maneuver as each agencys executive deputy director, saying that way they dont need Senate confirmation. Yee, a former state senator, said that is illegal. She wont accept those named deputies to be voting members of the State Board of Investment, she said Wednesday. I believe she is thumbing her nose at the law, the treasurer said of the governor. Yee said Hobbs should understand that, with the two having served in the Senate at the same time. We expect Treasurer Yee to stop playing political games, responded Christian Slater, the governors press aide. He contends the law allows these deputies to serve as designees, saying the treasurer should seat the duly authorized board members and ensure government keeps working on behalf of Arizonans. But Yee, who had made a short-lived bid for governor in 2021 before withdrawing from the GOP primary and deciding instead to seek reelection for her own office, said the issue goes beyond the members of the investment board. She said if there are not Senate-confirmed people heading agencies then we really do have some rogue people sitting in top positions, making executive decisions, and who are not elected, for a very long time. It turns out, though, that the tactic is not new. It happened to the Democrats who controlled the Senate in 1991 after they refused to confirm the choice of Republican Gov. Fife Symington to head the Department of Administration. He turned around and named that person as the agencys deputy and left the top slot vacant. But Senate President Warren Petersen said that was different because the majority Democrats chose not to fight the move. That, however, isnt the case here where the Gilbert Republican has threatened legal action. And theres another complicating factor. The Arizona Constitution spells out that in the governors absence from the state, the next in line automatically assumes the powers and duties of the office. Hobbs has been out of state since Sunday and was not set to return until Thursday morning. Secretary of State Adrian Fontes was scheduled to leave Wednesday night. And Attorney General Kris Mayes also is gone. Strictly speaking, that has left Yee in charge. But no acting governor in decades, however, has actually attempted to circumvent or countermand actions taken by the elected governor. And Yee said she would not use that power to fill what she said are the 13 vacancies or call the Legislature into special session. More immediate is the spat over the Board of Investment. The five-member panel was able to meet earlier this week, with Yee and two of her appointees present. But that leaves the board without a working majority if any of them are absent for their monthly meetings. And it also means that the governors appointees are effectively locked out of any decisions made. Yees move also changes the legal landscape for the whole dispute. Hobbs actions in naming deputy executive directors a position that doesnt even actually exist in state law puts the Legislature in the position of having to file suit if they want to have the moves declared illegal. In the interim, though, her appointments remain. Now, however, the tables are turned: If Hobbs wants the heads of the two agencies to serve on the Board of Investment, she would have to get a legal ruling to overturn Yees decision to exclude them. Whats behind all this is the refusal of the Senate to consider 13 of the governors nominees. In some cases, the Committee on Director Nominations recommended that they not be confirmed, leaving them in a kind of political and legal limbo, able to continue serving as interim directors for up to a year. At that point, Hobbs would have to submit a new nomination. In other cases, the panel headed by Rep. Jake Hoffman, R-Queen Creek, has yet to schedule hearings months after the governor submitted the names for consideration. So Hobbs withdrew the names of the 13 pending nominations. That, in turn, meant they were no longer interim directors. Instead, she tapped Ben Henderson, the interim director of the Department of Administration, to be the interim director of other agencies one at a time which Hobbs said allowed him to name deputy directors of each of those agencies. And with no directors above them, that made what Hobbs is calling the executive deputy directors the de facto heads of each of those agencies. Slater said Arizona law allows those deputies to serve, without reservation, in the absence of a director, confirmed or interim. And he said it gives them the same powers and, in this case, allows Elizabeth Alvarado-Thorson, her choice for Department of Administration, to serve as its deputy director and Barbara Richardson to head the Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions the two posts that Yee contends are not filled. The treasurer, however, isnt buying it. We received legal counsel that this is an area that would not be abiding by the law which requires the director of an agency to sit as members of the board legally, she said. Yee said, the withdrawal by Hobbs of her interim directors means these two agencies if not the others which are not of her direct concern dont have someone who qualifies to sit on the board. Nor does she believe that a deputy director can serve in their stead. They may have a designated member, written to us, of who that appointment would be, Yee said. She said thats how its occurred in the past, with the director of the Department of Administration sending a staff member. In this case, there was no director, legally, to appoint this designee, Yee said. It would have been different, she said, if Hobbs had left Thorson in place as interim director. Yee said she would have been allowed to be on the board or send a designee at least for the one year in which Arizona law allows someone to serve as an interim director. Ditto Richardson, Yee said. And she called the legality of the governors action of naming Henderson the interim director of all agencies questionable at best. Its a murky area, Yee said. Beyond her own issues, the treasurer said Hobbs runs the risk that any future action of any of the affected agencies that require the approval of a director will be called into legal question and could be overturned. And what of what Symington did? I never said it was OK when Fife did it, Yee said. In that case, Symington could not get the full Senate to confirm Jerry Tobin to head the Department of Administration despite his getting a unanimous recommendation for approval from the Senate Committee on Government and Public Safety. The Senate Democrats wanted to hold his appointment for another year as insurance the governor would not veto some of their bills and budget line items. But Petersen noted that Democrats did not make a legal issue of it, allowing Tobin to serve as deputy director with a promise by the governor to search for a new head for the agency. That would have allowed Symington to renominate him the following legislative session. That never happened. Tobin continued to serve as the top officer until he resigned in early 1992 after it appeared clear the Senate would not bless him for the permanent top spot. Who should pay for community damages?According to TEP, they emitted almost 9 BILLION tons of carbon during 2021. Using a conservative socio-economic cost estimate of $150/ton, that results in $1.346 Billion of climate-related damages to our community each year. And TEP has increased its use of natural gas to generate electricity (Gila River Power Plant), whose upstream fugitive CH4 methane emissions are even more damaging than CO2 (coal). Those heat-trapping emissions cause higher temperatures, drought, wildfires, catastrophic weather events, damage to personal and public property, exacerbate health costs, increase the need for community cooling centers and electricity usage/costs, which insidiously increase TEP revenues. These costs can be avoided by accelerating retirement of fossil-fueled generation, replacement with Solar and Energy Storage/Microgrids, funded by Federal EPA/IRA funds. What actions are our County and City Governments performing to AVOID having to increase taxes to cope with these damages? Other than preparing to explain and justify those imminent tax increases? Shouldnt for Profit TEP/Fortis pay for the AVOIDABLE damages? Terry Finefrock Foothills Its Christmas at Costco If youve been to Costco lately, you probably noticed that time went ahead before you knew it! Last week, I was in a local Costco (my husband is the designated shopper there), so maybe I missed it when time flew by. The store is a Christmas wonderland, lovely, but its September! I certainly understand that Christmas is very important to retail operations, of course, but, really, September? I am pretty sure I wont be Christmas shopping until the earliest November, and, pretty sure, too, it wont be at Costco. Binky Luckhurst Woodward Foothills Another reason for Universal HealthcareRe: the Sept. 21 article Hundreds face homelessness as Tucson sober-living venture fails. Nicole Ludden hit a home run with her coverage of the Happy Times community housing scheme. This is a terrible injustice to the unhoused and/or addicted in Tucson, as well as to the taxpayers, who have been swindled. The article notes the Arizona Healthcare Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) as the caretaker for the Medicaid funds. It mentions unscrupulous providers who bill for unprovided services. View the AHCCCS website: it is easier to become a provider than is to apply to receive Medicaid funding as a patient! Not mentioned are the Managed Care organizations that receive monies from the State through Medicaid. They are equally difficult to access. Are they somehow involved in this caper? This is a complicated system that the crooks have mastered. We can lower the amount of complications with a single-payer healthcare system, a Medicare for All. The crooks might be easier to identify and control if we werent playing whack-a-mole within and between the states! Joanne Mallett, MD , FACOG Southeast side Vote them out Re: the Sept. 21 article Bass Pro Shops to build mega-store. These two big box retailers received over $3 million in tax breaks from Mayor Romero and the City Council. It is bad enough that smaller, locally owned businesses that compete with them are paying all their taxes to be screwed over like this by our city government. On top of this, it is taking money from areas which the city has not adequately funded for years, such as roads, public safety and low-income housing. The only reason the city does anything in these areas is because of federal aid. It seems Mayor Romero and the incompetent City Council care more about the real estate developers that fund their campaigns and big business than they do about the long-suffering people of the Old Pueblo. It is time to vote the Mayor, Paul Cunningham, Lane Santa Cruz and Nikki Lee out of office. Further, it is necessary to recall the other three councilmen after the election is over. Enough is enough. The gravy train has to stop. David Moore Midtown Supervisor Hines testimony Yuma County Supervisor Jonathan Hines just testified before Congress about the continued dire situation in Yuma related to the influx of migrants. He stated that last year, the County Regional Medical Center had $26 million in uncompensated expenses caring for migrants. Hines has related that only three of eleven border wall gaps at Yuma have been closed. Remember Sen. Mark Kelly a year ago received a commitment from the Biden administration to close those. Dah! Customs and Border Protection reported that as of the end of July, 161,000 migrants had been apprehended entering illegally at Yuma, many coming through the border wall gaps. Supervisor Hines stated that surveillance cameras that were placed along the border wall at Yuma by Border Patrol have been removed under the Biden administration. Former Governor Ducey placed shipping containers at Yuma to fill the gaps. He was sued by the Biden Administration to remove them. What is Governor Hobbs doing to stop the renewed surge of thousands of migrants illegally entering daily into Arizona? Janice DeAngelo Tubac Hundreds face homelessness Re: the Sept. 21 article Hundreds face homelessness as Tucson sober-living venture fails. As reported on the front-page, the tragic eviction of the nearly 200 Tucson residents is disturbing for a variety of reasons. It reported the sober living community, Happy Times [sic], stopped paying for residents to live at Ocotillo Apartments and Hotel. In the eighth paragraph, the reporter introduces the apparently common predatory practice of promising undelivered services to Native Americans to bilk Medicare through ACCCHS. Undeniably a deplorable practice. However, the article provides no direct evidence that this predatory scam led to these struggling individuals eviction. The perpetuation of a permanent and homeless underclass through inadequate affordable housing by the City of Tucson, Pima County, the State of Arizona, and the federal governments is deplorable. Oh well, at least it isnt 110 outside. Richard Fridena West side Immigration I find it ridiculous to read letters from those ranting about Biden concerning immigration. They apparently have no inkling that the situation at the border is not the fault of our president. Have you no knowledge that immigration issues are the responsibility of Congress? That Congress has now spent decades failing to pass any immigration reform bills? The Democrats have at least submitted plans but nothing passes due to Republican obstruction while the GOP submits no ideas of their own. If you want to blame someone, then at least blame the right people. Robert Stanelle Green Valley ESA program accountability A recent letter writer wants an explanation and accountability for how TUSD spent COVID relief money. Given the hardships COVID put on schools and students, this money was sorely needed. Im far more interested in an explanation and full accounting of how ESA funds are being spent money sucked from our public schools and available to any family (7K per child available). Financial need? Not a requirement! Studies show many applicants have no need of this assistance. About 49% of recipients never had their kids attending public schools. There should be a full accounting of how this money is being spent and also of student progress/success. Public schools are held accountable; the same should go for homeschoolers and any other alternative education. Whos overseeing accountability both financial and educational for this ill-conceived voucher giveaway and the millions being handed out? Predictions are, it may bankrupt the state. Every recipient should have to account for every dime received and for student performance, as public schools must do. Deb Klumpp Representatives of the Osage Nation were invited to attend a New York premiere of the Martin Scorsese film "Killers of the Flower Moon." Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear and other Osage walked the red carpet as premiere guests. The shot-in-Oklahoma film due is to be released Oct. 20. Jimmie Tramel Tulsa World Scene Writer Follow Jimmie Tramel 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 The relationship between the Killers of the Flower Moon team and the Osage Nation continued Wednesday when representatives of the Osage Nation attended a New York premiere of the Martin Scorsese film. Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear and other Osage citizens walked the red carpet as premiere guests. The New York premiere was amazing, Julie OKeefe, an Osage wardrobe consultant who attended the premiere, said. Osages were woven into every detail of the event, from helping with the costume exhibit in the lobby to walking down the red carpet. As a community, we are powerful and beautiful. Killers of the Flower Moon, a shot-in-Oklahoma film due to be released Oct. 20, is based on David Granns bestselling book about the Osage reign of terror in 1920s Oklahoma. The film adaptation stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro and Lily Gladstone. Members of the Osage Nation also took part in the Cannes film festival premiere of Killers of the Flower Moon. A news release from Apple said more than 40 members of the Osage Nation were at the New York premiere, including Standing Bear, OKeefe, Lawren Lulu Goodfox, Gianna Gigi Sieke, Addie Roanhorse, Christopher Cote and Janis Carpenter. They joined director Martin Scorsese, producers Bradley Thomas and Daniel Lupi, executive producers Rick Yorn, Marianne Bower, Lisa Frechette, Shea Kammer and Niels Juul, consulting producer Chad Renfro (an Osage ambassador to the film) and creative artisans Rodrigo Prieto (director of photography), Jack Fisk (production designer), Thelma Schoonmaker (editor), Jacqueline West (costume designer), Ellen Lewis (casting), Rene Haynes (casting), Mark Ulano (sound) and Kay Georgiou (makeup artist). Among the guests who attended the New York premiere were Saturday Night Live producer Lorne Michaels, actress Carol Cane, television personalities Gayle King and Joy Behar, playwright-actor Jeremy O. Harris, author-actor Fran Lebowitz, music producer Clive Davis, and music artists Natasha Bedingfield and Steven Van Zandt. Additional guests included Bennett Miller, Ramin Bahrani, Kenneth Lonergan, John Waters, Reed Morano, Neil Burger and Francesco Clemente. A screening of Killers of the Flower Moon at the BFI London Film Festival will be among other premieres in advance of the films release. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. Randy Krehbiel Tulsa World Staff Writer Follow Randy Krehbiel 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 Oklahomas mental health infrastructure has been totally demolished and needs to be rebuilt from the ground up, Tulsa County District Attorney Steve Kunzweiler said Wednesday. Im very outspoken on this stuff, Kunzweiler said during a meeting with the Tulsa World. On every single level I could probably spend a day talking about how bad it is. We have to rebuild just to get to average. Kunzweilers experience with the mental health system is in at least two capacities as a parent and as a prosecutor. A year ago Wednesday, his disturbed daughter stabbed him at home. She later was ordered to undergo treatment. Long before that, though, Kunzweiler said his work alerted him to the challenges of mental illness and addiction. More than 30 years ago, when he began working as a prosecutor, Kunzweiler said he would ask prospective jurors whether they or someone they knew had a substance abuse or mental health issue. In the early 90s youd be lucky to get one person to raise their hand, he said. Now, easily 80% of the panel in front of me, 35 people, will raise their hands. Kunzweiler said he doesnt know if those conditions are actually more prevalent or if people are more open about it, but he said he does know that a large share of the cases he sees have some sort of drug and/or mental health component. And, he said, it is one aspect of life in an increasingly polarized and segmented society that seems to touch families across all spectra. Kunzweiler is a Republican and considers himself conservative on most issues, but when it comes to mental health he believes that the state is not fulfilling a basic obligation. He calls the Oklahoma Forensic Center in Vinita the Island of Misfit Toys, without sufficient staff or resources to handle the job its been given. Hes also critical of the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services management, which he says has forgotten how to fight for state funding and doesnt always make the best decisions with the money it does have. Kunzweiler said his office has successfully applied for federal grants in recent years to develop some mental health-related programs, including at least one in cooperation with Family and Childrens Services. Another grant pays for a full-time mental health prosecutor who does nothing besides trying to differentiate between what might be a crime and just do civil mental health commitment-type cases. As an example of the stories his office hears, Kunzweiler said that in the course of trying to find housing for a mentally ill person, the family said, He seems to do OK on meth. That tells me how absolutely crazy it must have been in their household, Kunzweiler said. The District Attorneys Office found the person a bed in a treatment facility, but the doctor said, Well, hes not a real threat to kill himself today. Which is always the problem. This idea that if youre having your kid picked up or taken in, your initial perception is, Thank God. Weve got her in. Now theyre going to provide treatment. That is not a real thing, Kunzweiler said. It is strictly a stabilization. What they will do is load them up with meds, get them stabilized where theyre not hallucinating and get them to say something like, Im not going to kill myself, and then they discharge them. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. MANSFIELD, La. - A DeSoto Parish teenager has died and another was injured in an early morning UTV crash. The DeSoto Parish Sheriffs Office received a 911 call around 12:45 a.m. Saturday that two female juveniles from Stanley were involved in a crash in the area of state Highway 539 and Bobcat Lane. Investigation revealed that Aubrey Hubier was the 17-year-old that died at the scene. The other teen was taken to the hospital to be checked out. Hubier was northbound in a UTV on Highway 539 when she ran off the road and hit a tree. She and her passenger were ejected. Neither was restrained nor wearing a helmet. Both are students at Stanley High School. Sheriff Jayson Richardson and his staff offer their thoughts and prayers to those involved. DeSoto Parish Sheriff's Office released a statement saying, "These are calls and posts no community likes to wake up to, but we know with all the posts offering prayers that we should at the very least inform our community of what is going on. Please hug and spend time with your kids today, and continue to keep the Stanley community in your prayers during this difficult time." Funeral services for Hubier will be on Monday at 2 p.m. at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church in Logansport, Louisiana. She is survived by her immediate family and grandparents. 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 A Muscogee Nation District Court judge has sided with two freedmen descendants seeking tribal citizenship. In an order issued Wednesday, Judge Danette Mouser reversed and remanded a decision by the Muscogee Nations Citizenship Board that denied the citizenship applications of two freedmen descendants, Rhonda Grayson and Jeffrey Kennedy. Mousers order specifically cites the Treaty of 1866 as justification. That is the same treaty cited by the U.S. Supreme Court in its 2020 ruling in McGirt v. Oklahoma, which held that the tribes reservation was never disestablished. The Treaty of 1866 itself is identified by name in the Nations Code of Laws as a source of its authority, Mouser wrote. There can be no doubt that the Treaty must be followed in all regards, including as it relates to the eligibility for citizenship of those whose ancestors are listed on the Creek Freedmen roll. Adopted in 1979 via referendum vote and approved by the Department of the Interior, Article III of the Muscogee Nation Constitution restricts tribal citizenship eligibility to individuals who are the lineal descendants of Creeks listed on the final rolls compiled by the federal government via the Dawes Commission in the late 19th century and early 20th century. However, in 1866, the Muscogee Nation signed a treaty with the United States government that, among other provisions, guaranteed equal rights and privileges to the tribes freed slaves and their descendants, as well as to Black Creeks and their descendants. In 2019, a judge with the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia dismissed a federal lawsuit from Grayson, Kennedy and several other descendants of individuals listed on the Muscogee freedmen rolls on the grounds that they had not exhausted all possible remedies through the tribal court system. That dismissal prompted Grayson and Kennedy to reapply for tribal citizenship and, after their applications were again rejected, file a civil suit in Muscogee Nation District Court against the tribes Citizenship Board, which is charged with reviewing citizenship applications. Through a spokesman, Muscogee Nation Attorney General Geri Wisner issued a statement Wednesday evening in response to the ruling. We respect the authority of our court but strongly disagree with Judge Mousers deeply flawed reasoning in this matter. We will immediately be appealing this case to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Supreme Court. The MCN Constitution, which we are duty-bound to follow, makes no provisions for citizenship for non-Creek individuals. We look forward to addressing this matter before our Nations highest court. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. Corey Jones Follow Corey Jones Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today Related Feds look into complaint that two Tulsa hospitals turned away man experiencing paralysis A government survey cited no deficiencies against two Tulsa hospitals after a man was turned away from both facilities and apparently was dumped from a wheelchair onto a sidewalk outside one of the hospitals in July 2022. A complaint alleged that Oklahoma State University Medical Center and Hillcrest Medical Center each turned away Brent Thurman as a patient the latter discharging him while he was largely immobile. At the time, Thurman had been living on the streets of downtown Tulsa. A video obtained by the Tulsa World appeared to corroborate Thurmans account that he was dumped while he was unable to move enough to help or fend for himself and languished on a sidewalk for several hours. A Health and Human Services official informed the executives of both hospitals, in a letter dated May 4, that no enforcement action would be taken in response to the complaint after investigators reviewed reports and spoke with employees. We have determined that your hospital meets the requirements of the foregoing regulations based on the review of facility documents, medical records and interviews with facility staff, according to the letters obtained by the Tulsa World through a Freedom of Information Act request. Under federal law, Medicare-participating hospitals with emergency departments are required to screen and provide stabilizing treatment for a persons emergency medical conditions regardless of ability to pay or insurance status in a nondiscriminatory manner, according to the American College of Emergency Physicians. It aint right how they done me, Thurman said. I think theyre wrong. I think they should be punished. Thurman told the Tulsa World earlier he was taken to Hillcrest by ambulance and notified hospital staff that he was sick and couldnt walk. He said the staff determined he had heat stroke symptoms and gave him an IV for dehydration. Thurman said he became upset when someone wouldnt give him a drink, which ultimately culminated in what he says were two security officers dumping him onto the sidewalk across the street from the hospital. Hillcrest said previously that generally security is involved only if there is a disturbance or aggressive behavior toward staff. According to a statement from the hospital, Hillcrest has in the past year implemented several process changes to ensure the safety of team members, patients and visitors. It created a multidisciplinary committee to address threats of workplace violence, including disruptive patients. Officials said Hillcrest engages in community efforts to address homelessness, including the City of Tulsas new Housing, Homelessness & Mental Health Task Force. While we are pleased state and federal regulators found our hospital to be in compliance with all regulations relating to this incident, we take our responsibility to caring for all individuals including those experiencing homelessness very seriously, the Hillcrest statement reads. Mark A. Cox, an Oklahoma City attorney, is representing Thurman as Cox investigates what he called one of the most egregious things Ive seen in 33 years of practicing law. He described the two Hillcrest security officers actions, as video shows them literally dumping Thurman onto the pavement like an old bag of trash, as reprehensible. Someone is going to be held accountable for that, Cox said. I can assure you of that. Thurmans alleged behavior also appears to be behind OSU Medical Centers refusal to treat him in July 2022. Thurman told the Tulsa World previously that he visited that hospital around July 4 for treatment of an infection in his hand and became upset after being told he would have a long wait. He said a security officer walked with him to the exit and told him not to come back. The complaint alleges that OSU Medical Center turned Thurman away on July 17 after an ambulance had been called for him because his condition had deteriorated. Thurman said someone at the hospital told him that they couldnt help him because of the prior argument. OSU Medical Center in a prior statement said the hospital has a long history providing fair and equitable care regardless of ability to pay. On the morning of July 21, 2022, Tulsa World photojournalist Mike Simons was working on a story about how people without homes were coping in intense heat. Simons saw Thurman, looking emaciated while shirtless on the ground, as his peers attempted to help him drink. Video showing how Thurman got there, later obtained by the Tulsa World, showed two people taking him from Hillcrest across 11th Street. They can be seen tipping a wheelchair, sending the person in it tumbling to the pavement on the street corner just east of downtown Tulsa around 12:35 a.m. The two escorts then walked away with the wheelchair; the person on the sidewalk didnt move for eight hours. Julie Bennett, a tenant of an apartment building near where Thurman used to live on the street, said Thurman underwent surgery two days later at Saint Francis for an infection that had spread to his neck and spine. This month marks one year since Thurman was discharged from Saint Francis Hospital after two months of care there. He was taken to Riverside Health Services Skilled Nursing Home in Arkoma bordering Arkansas near Fort Smith where he continues his extensive rehabilitation. Thurman told the World that his goal is to walk again at some point. The 42-year-old uses a wheelchair, still experiences back pain and has a more immediate aim to be able to lift his legs, which dont have feeling. They put a lot of metal in my back, Thurman said. Ive seen pictures of it. Hes grateful that he no longer has a catheter and feeding tube. I still cry some mornings because my bodys like this, Thurman said, adding that staff, friends and family help him to keep a positive outlook. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. Robert N. Bob Dick, whose imprint on Tulsa and Tulsa County includes the BOK Center, a modernized Expo Square and the David L. Moss Criminal Justice Center, died late Tuesday. He was 84. Dick made his name in law enforcement but is best remembered as a county commissioner who led passage of several key capital improvement projects, including the Vision 2025 package that included the BOK Center. Bob Dick is really a legend in public service in Tulsa and Tulsa County, said Tulsa County District Judge Bill LaFortune, who as Tulsa mayor in the early 2000s worked with Dick on the countywide Vision 2025 project. The pairs lobbying efforts became known as the Bill and Bob Show and culminated in the $650 million initiatives September 2003 passage. I think what Bob mostly brought to the table was his vast experience in public service and the maturity he had gained from public service, LaFortune said. As the junior partner of the Bill and Bob Show, LaFortune said, he was often counseled and redirected by the more experienced Dick. Current County Commissioner Karen Keith, who was on LaFortunes staff at the time, said Dick could be gruff and intimidating but that after the Vision 2025 vote, Bob called and said, You should run for county commissioner. Dick was a Republican, Keith a Democrat. Born in Sapulpa, Dick grew up in Tulsa and after a stint in the Navy joined the Tulsa Police Department in 1963. He rose through the ranks, acquiring a University of Tulsa law degree along the way, to become chief of police in the 1980s and then Tulsas last police and fire commissioner before the position was abolished a decision Dick supported. He held every rank and excelled at every rank, said Expo Square President and CEO Mark Andrus, who served in the police force with Dick for many years. The word mentor gets thrown around a lot, but he really was one. He was mine, and there were many others. Andrus said Dick was a stickler for planning and budgets. He would ask smart people for their opinion and would collaborate with anyone for the greater good of the people, Andrus said. After leaving law enforcement, Dick defeated seven other candidates to win a vacant County Commission spot in 1990. He ran an unsuccessful race for Tulsa mayor in 1994, losing to incumbent Susan Savage, but retained his County Commission seat. In that position he was instrumental in winning voter approval, after several setbacks, for a new Tulsa County jail at a time when the existing facility was so overcrowded that some prisoners were briefly housed in tents west of downtown. Dick and the other county commissioners also persuaded Tulsa County voters to pass a capital improvement package called 4 to Fix the County, which included substantial upgrades to Expo Square and became something of a precursor for Vision 2025. Dick did not seek reelection in 2006 and mostly retired from public life. He underwent treatment for lung cancer but reportedly had been in good health until recently. Services are scheduled for 3 p.m. Tuesday at Floral Haven Funeral Home in Broken Arrow. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. Several ongoing trends in the Vietnamese tourism sector have contributed to its strong recovery in the wake of the global COVID-19 pandemic, with the increasing travel demands of Gen Z and families with kids as significant contributors, according to the Visa Global Travel Intentions Study (GTI) 2023. Vietnam, with its stunning landscapes and diverse cultural heritage sites, has become a popular destination for travelers from around the world. According to the study, it is vital for both travelers and industry stakeholders to understand new trends in Vietnamese tourism following the pandemic. In terms of leisure trips, families with kids and 'Silvers' individuals older than 60 made an average of 2.4 trips over the past 12 months, more than any other market segments, according to the GTI 2023. Besides ticking visiting landmarks, Vietnamese tourists are now placing a strong emphasis on leisure-focused and experiential journeys. Relaxation was the main driver of travel, followed by shopping and exploration. As the country blossoms into a playground for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts, tourists are opting for personalized experiences that enable them to immerse themselves in local customs, traditions, and cuisine. Environmental awareness was also a primary catalyst for travel over the past year. As such, Vietnamese travelers demonstrated remarkable interest and action in sustainable travel. Up to 73 percent of those surveyed said they were either interested or very interested in sustainable travel options, while half had actively looked for these options when planning trips. With an increasing number of travelers seeking eco-conscious options, the tourism sector is witnessing a shift toward greener travel practices, more support for local communities, and the preservation of natural resources. Given the countrys growing middle class and their increasing disposable income, Vietnamese travelers are embarking on more domestic and international trips and they seek unforgettable experiences and bonding opportunities. About one-fifth of the respondents said visiting and connecting with friends or families would be a key motivation for travel in the next year. Shopping has also become an integral part of the Vietnamese travel experience, with many Vietnamese travelers seeking out unique souvenirs and indulging in retail therapy as part of their journeys. Sustainable tourism is increasingly preferable for Vietnamese travelers. Amid the strong development of digital technology, Vietnamese tourists prefer seamless transactions and optimal security measures. The digital revolution is transforming payment methods, and Vietnamese travelers have embraced the convenience of credit, debit, and pre-paid cards. Almost all Vietnamese respondents in the GTI 2023 indicated that they intended to use these cashless payment options during their journeys, streamlining transactions and enhancing their overall travel experiences. Accordingly, 64 percent of the Vietnamese respondents said they brought their digital wallets along with them for their travels. Thus, the incorporation of cashless payment solutions has become a pivotal pillar in travel, fostering convenience, security, and efficiency for travelers while contributing to the industry's overall vitality. Vietnams tourism is entering a new era where the role of digital payments will advance side by side with the industry as customers demand more efficient and secure payment services," said Dang Tuyet Dung, Visa country manager for Vietnam and Laos. "Adapting swiftly, hotels, restaurants, and tour operators must cater to evolving traveler needs, supported by the growing use of cashless payment methods for added convenience. Amid the global recovery from COVID-19, Vietnam's tourism sector is rebounding. Domestic tourism has been pivotal, with locals exploring their own country, bolstering local businesses and jobs. Vietnam welcomed over 7.8 million foreign visitors between January and August this year, meeting 98 percent of its full-year target of eight million international tourist arrivals. The tourism sector also served 86 million domestic tourist arrivals in the eight-month period, according to the General Statistics Office. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Over 400 exhibitors from 17 countries and territories are joining the 21st Vietnam International Printing and Packaging Industry Exhibition (VietnamPrintPack 2023), which opened in Ho Chi Minh City on Wednesday, in search of investment and cooperation opportunities. The participating printing and packaging enterprises come from Germany, China, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, Britain, and the United States. According to insiders, Vietnam faces a shortage of providers of high-quality printing and packaging services and products. VietnamPrintPack plays a key role in helping foster the printing and packaging industry in Vietnam. It has also paved the way for domestic firms to seek appropriate solutions and technologies, and for foreigners to do business in the Southeast Asian nation. The exhibition covers an area of over 20,000 square meters and features 910 booths showcasing the latest products and services in the industry. Chinas Masterwork Group, which has joined the annual exhibition for the first time, is using the event to showcase its folding and gluing machines, as well as other products. The expo is scheduled to wrap up on Saturday. Vietnams printing and packaging industry is growing quickly, creating much potential for foreign investors and producers. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! SINGAPORE/HANOI -- Singapore's sovereign wealth fund GIC is among investors vying to buy up to 20 percent stake in grocer Bach Hoa Xanh from Vietnam's retail giant Mobile World Investment, in a deal that could value the grocery chain at up to $1.7 billion, two sources said. GIC declined to comment. Other bidders include companies from Thailand, the sources added, declining to be named as the matter is private. The identity of the potential buyers has not been reported previously. "The deal is nearing to the finalising stage and expected to close soon," one of the sources with knowledge of the matter said, adding that a deal could be sealed as early as the first quarter of next year if negotiations are successful. In a statement to Reuters, Mobile World said it would announce the information once the deal was concluded. "We are still in a private placement and have signed an agreement not to disclose information with interested bidders," it said. The potential deal would intensify competition in Vietnam's retail market. Drawn by the rapid urbanization in a country of 100 million people, domestic and foreign retailers are seeking to expand or gain a foothold. The sources said the deal could value Bach Hoa Xanh, Vietnam's third largest grocery chain, at around $1.5-$1.7 billion. Vietnam has attracted strong investor interest as companies look to reconfigure global supply chains as a result of geopolitical tensions between China and the United States. Founded in 2015, Bach Hoa Xanh, backed by Vietnam's retail giant Mobile World Investment, is running more than 1,700 stores in Vietnam's southern and south-central provinces. Mobile World decided in recent months to go ahead with the planned sale after putting it on hold earlier this year due to unfavorable market conditions, the sources said. The Ho Chi Minh City-headquartered company had first planned the sale of a stake of up to 20% in Bach Hoa Xanh last year. Bach Hoa Xanh was expected to be profitable from next year, its managing director told investors last month. Its net loss in the first half of this year shrank to $26.98 million from a full-year loss of $123.03 million in 2022. Revenue in the first half rose seven percent on-year to $557.72 million. One of the world's biggest investors, GIC has stakes in Vietnamese conglomerate Vingroup's medical unit, Vinmec and major lender Vietcombank among other investments in the country. ($1 = 24,385 dong) HANOI -- Vietnam's Bamboo Airways will embark on restructuring its aircraft fleet from next month to increase efficiency and optimize operating costs, the company said on Wednesday. "The restructuring process aims to stabilize Bamboo Airways' operations and further growth opportunities," it said in a statement sent to Reuters, adding that it aims to "increase the uniformity of aircraft types in the long run", without elaborating. The company also said it had agreed to adjust a cooperation agreement with an unidentified leasing company, adding this was a temporary step. It did not say what type of aircraft were involved or how many. Dozens of airlines have rescheduled deliveries or adjusted fleet plans since the pandemic, from which Asian airlines have staged a partial recovery. Bamboo's fleet comprises 30 planes, according to specialist websites Airfleets.net and Planespotters.net, including Airbus A320, Airbus A321, Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Embraer ERJ-190 jets. BRASILIA -- Brazil's government is preparing a task force to provide emergency assistance to inhabitants in the Amazon region hit by a severe drought that has impacted the rivers that are their life support, Environment Minister Marina Silva said. Low river levels and hotter waters have killed masses of fish seen floating on river surfaces, contaminating the drinking water, she said. Brazil's Environment Minister Marina Silva attends an interview with Reuters in Brasilia, Brazil March 24, 2023. Photo: Reuters "We have a very worrying situation. This record drought has disrupted river transport routes threatening food and water shortages, and a large fish mortality is already beginning," she told Reuters in an interview. Some 111,000 people have been affected in a region where a much of the population's protein comes from fishing, which will be suspended for some time, she added. The civil defense agency warned that the drought could eventually impact up to 500,000 people in the Amazon. Boat pilot Paulo Monteiro da Cruz observes dead fish at Piranha lake, which has been affected by the drought of the Solimoes River, in Manacapuru, state of Amazonas, Brazil, September 27, 2023. Photo: Reuters The Port of Manaus website said the Rio Negro's water level fell by an average of 30 centimeters (11.8 inches) a day since mid-September and stood at 16.4 meters (54 feet) on Wednesday, about six meters below its level on the same day of last year. The federal task force would be airlifted by the Air Force to the states of Amazonas and Acre with water, food, medicines and other resources, Silva said. The government also allocated 140 million reais ($27.76 million) to dredging rivers and ports in the region to keep transport flowing when water levels drop, she added. The drought in the Amazon, like the flooding in the south of Brazil, results from the El Nino phenomenon, which warms the surface water in the Pacific Ocean. This year the impact has been greater than normal, weather experts say. Silva said this was the effect of a periodic El Nino mixing with changes in weather patterns brought by global warming. "We are seeing a collision of two phenomena, one natural which is El Nino and the other a phenomenon produced by humans, which is the change in the Earth's temperature," she said. Worsened by climate change, this combination has caused drought not seen before in the Amazon and "is incomparably stronger and could happen more frequently," she added. ($1 = 5.0431 reais) Catch up on the news in Vietnam today: Politics -- Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong on Wednesday hosted a reception for a high-level delegation led by President of the National Assembly of People's Power of Cuba Esteban Lazo Hernandez at the Office of the Party Central Committee in Hanoi, affirming that Vietnam always attaches much significance to the close relationship with Cuba. -- Newly-appointed EU Ambassador to Vietnam Julien Guerrier highly valued Vietnams efforts to strictly and fully implement the European Commission (EC)s recommendations on combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, expecting a warning issued by the EC to the country involved in IUU fishing to be lifted as soon as possible, heard a press briefing in Hanoi on Wednesday. -- U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper and his entourage on Wednesday visited the Kim Lien relic site in Nghe An Province, north-central Vietnam, which retains many objects and documents associated with late President Ho Chi Minhs childhood. Society -- State President Vo Van Thuong has prompted Binh Phuoc Province, located in southern Vietnam, to ensure defense and security, while boosting socioeconomic development and improving the quality of life for residents, mainly ethnic minority groups. -- A prolonged downpour triggered by a tropical depression in the East Vietnam Sea is inundating nearly 1,200 houses in Nghe An Province, while tens of thousands of students in neighboring Thanh Hoa Province had to stay home on Wednesday due to floods. -- Vietnam ranks 46th among 132 countries in the Global Innovation Index 2023, released by the World Intellectual Property Organization in Switzerland on Wednesday (Vietnam time), up two places from last year. Business -- Over 400 exhibitors from 17 countries and territories are joining the 21st Vietnam International Printing and Packaging Industry Exhibition (VietnamPrintPack 2023), which opened in Ho Chi Minh City on Wednesday, to sound out investment and cooperation opportunities. -- The Peoples Committee of Binh Duong Province in southern Vietnam and the Vietnam Railways on Wednesday debuted an international multimodal transport train which transports goods for export from Song Than Station to China. -- Bridgestone Vietnam, a Japanese tire manufacturer, announced on Wednesday that it would shift to the use of renewable energy in its production process to turn out eco-friendly products. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! AIIB to lend Bangladesh 4.5 bln USD in 5 years Xinhua) 10:45, September 28, 2023 DHAKA, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- The Beijing-headquartered Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) will provide 4.5 billion U.S. dollars in loan to Bangladesh mainly on climate-related projects in the next five years. The assurance came at the eighth annual meeting of the AIIB that took place on Sept. 25 and 26 at Sharm El-Sheikh in Egypt, Bangladesh's Ministry of Finance said in a press release on Tuesday. The loan will also help finance various infrastructure projects in the country, said the ministry. The AIIB has so far provided a total of 3.27 billion dollars in loans for 18 projects in the South Asian country. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) If you have an event you'd like to list on the site, submit it now! Submit The European Union (EU) will apply five assistance tools to Vietnams multifaceted development plan, as well as rapidly resolve its Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing yellow card warning against the Southeast Asian country, the new EU ambassador to Vietnam recently announced. Ambassador Julien Guerrier was speaking at his first media meeting in Hanoi on Wednesday, one day after taking office and presenting his letter of credentials to Vietnamese State President Vo Van Thuong. Vietnam is an important EU partner in its Indo-Pacific strategy and the EU is one of Vietnams most reliable and long-standing friends and partners, Guerrier affirmed. The new ambassador pledged that during his four-year term, the EU will continue to help Vietnam realize its vision of becoming a developed economy by 2045 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. To that effect, the EU will provide Vietnam with five support tools, the first of which is to continue promoting the effectiveness of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA). Since taking effect on August 1, 2020, the EVFTA has contributed to boosting Vietnams exports to the EU market, with last years export turnover to the 27-country bloc rising 16.7 percent compared to 2021, according to official figures. The second assistance tool is the Global Gateway, an initiative that will offer about 300 billion (US$315 billion) to countries around the world, including Vietnam, to build sustainable infrastructure without creating public debt. Additionally, the EU will coordinate with the UK to support Vietnam's green transition process by making the best use of the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) agreement in order to help the Southeast Asian nation achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Fourthly, Horizon Europe, the EUs key funding program for research and innovation, with its budget of 95.5 billion ($99.7 billion), will sponsor Vietnamese research institutes and encourage outstanding Vietnamese innovators to join in the exchange and sharing of knowledge and skills with their European counterparts. The last tool the EU will give Vietnam is support from the EUs Enhancing Security Cooperation In and With Asia (ESIWA) project so that Vietnam can improve its capabilities in maritime security and cybersecurity. Answering questions from the press about a possible lift of the yellow card warning imposed by the European Commission (EC) against Vietnamese seafood exports for IUU fishing since 2017, Ambassador Guerrier said it is an important matter that has been discussed for years between the two sides. He shared his appreciation for Vietnams efforts in actively building a legal framework to combat IUU fishing, but stressed that it is more important for Vietnamese fishermen to properly comply with the framework. Expressing his hope that the IUU yellow card warning will soon be resolved, the ambassador revealed that an EC working group will visit Vietnam next month to deal with the issue. Guerrier also told the media that he and State President Thuong discussed Vietnams national motto Doc Lap - Tu Do - Hanh Phuc (Independence - Freedom - Happiness) during the credentials presentation ceremony on Tuesday. This motto covers the common aspirations of both European and Vietnamese people, the diplomat commented, adding that strengthening bilateral cooperation can help both sides achieve the goals stated in the motto. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Rescuers managed to save four people aboard a floating restaurant which was washed out to sea early on Wednesday morning in Quang Binh Province, north-central Vietnam, a local border guard station confirmed the same day. The incident took place at around 1:00 am when the owner of Hai Duong floating restaurant, situated by the Nhat Le River in the provinces Dong Hoi City, and a few friends were trying to pull the restaurant to a nearby canal in order to avoid heavy rains and flooding in the area. However, the anchor rope of the restaurant suddenly broke and the diner was swept out to sea, according to the Nhat Le border guard station, under the Border Guard Command of Quang Binh. Pham Van Duong, the restaurateur, was injured when his leg was caught in the anchor rope. Meanwhile, high waves and powerful winds pushed the restaurant further into the ocean. Upon being notified of the incident, border guards and local inhabitants jointly conducted a rescue operation. Waves eventually pushed the floating restaurant back to shore at around 2:45 am. By that time, rescue forces had managed to save the four people from the restaurant. Duong was sent to a local hospital for medical treatment. By 8:00 am the same day, the floating restaurant was reanchored. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Many households and businesses in Hanoi have raced to equip escape ladders outside their high-rise buildings following a fatal apartment block inferno that killed 56 people in the capital earlier this month. These escape ladders come in all types and sizes, but most of them are made from metal. The owners of buildings with enough spaces have equipped them with spiral ladders, while vertical ladders have been installed outside some others. Some ladders have even encroached on sidewallk areas. The owner of an eight-floor apartment block on Thanh Binh Street in Ha Dong District, Hanoi has equipped the building with an escape ladder system costing over VND100 million (US$4,100). Photo: Hong Quang / Tuoi Tre Le Ha Khanh, residing on Minh Khai Street in Hai Ba Trung District, was in a divided mind while choosing an escape ladder for her six-floor apartment block. Vertical ladders are dangerous as people may fall while climbing down, Khanh said. Meanwhile, she does not know how much weight a ladder can hold and what material the ladders should be made of to prevent the heat conduction, Khanh added. He installs a spiral ladder outside the building thanks to a large yard. Photo: Hong Quang / Tuoi Tre The installation of escape ladders outside buildings is just a temporary solution. It is necessary to assess the safety and suitability of the facilities to buildings, according to Vu Ngoc Anh, head of the Science - Technology and Environment Department under the Ministry of Construction. Residents should consult specialized individuals and agencies so that escape ladders will meet standards and prove effective in case of incidents. Each floor has two escape routes leading to the escape ladder, which is wide enough for a person to climb. Photo: Hong Quang / Tuoi Tre A fire engulfed a densely-inhabited mini apartment block down a narrow alley on Khuong Ha Street in Thanh Xuan District, Hanoi around midnight on September 12. Police confirmed 56 deaths in the conflagration, which also left scores injured. The property consisted of nine floors and a mezzanine and was home to around 150 people before the tragedy. The building had only one exit and no escape route. The building owner writes fire prevention and fighting regulations and instructions on how to use the escape ladder on a board on the ground floor. Photo: Hong Quang / Tuoi Tre Some residents find it hard to install escape ladders outside their buildings due to the small space. Photo: Hong Quang / Tuoi Tre Part of an escape ladder of a house on Le Trong Tan Street in Ha Dong District, Hanoi juts out to the sidewalk. Photo: Hong Quang / Tuoi Tre Two adjacent buildings are equipped with escape ladders, creating a metal layer on their facades. Photo: Hong Quang / Tuoi Tre The owner of this building hangs air conditioners condenser units on an escape ladder. Photo: Hong Quang / Tuoi Tre An apartment block with 60 rooms for rent in Cau Giay District, Hanoi is equipped with a vertical ladder. Photo: Hong Quang / Tuoi Tre The metal ladder is as long as the height of the building. Photo: Hong Quang / Tuoi Tre Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The Ho Chi Minh City Center for Disease Control (HCDC) said on Thursday it is monitoring people entering the city from regions hit by the Nipah virus, whose spread has killed two people in India's southern state of Kerala within one week. The southern Indian state recently reported six Nipah infections in one week, with two dead and a nine-year-old patient in serious conditions. More than 700 people, including healthcare workers, were tested for the deadly virus. The Kerala administration shut some schools, offices, and public transport in an attempt to curb the spread of the Nipah virus. Given the spread of the deadly virus, the HCDC ramped up efforts to monitor those entering the southern Vietnamese metropolis from virus-hit areas via Tan Son Nhat International Airport and seaports citywide to early detect and timely handle those with probable Nipah infection. Those who develop fever and headache symptoms along with respiratory problems such as coughing, a sore throat, and shortness of breath from three to 14 days after leaving virus-hit areas should visit the nearest medical center for a health check-up and treatment, the HCDC said. The HCDC cited WHO data as saying that Nipah virus infection is a zoonotic illness that is transmitted to people from animals, and can also be passed through contaminated food or directly from person to person. In infected people, it causes a range of illnesses from asymptomatic infection to acute respiratory illness and fatal encephalitis. There are currently no drugs or vaccines that specifically target Nipah virus infection, which has the fatality rate of between 40 and 75 percent, according to the WHO. The incubation period of the disease is from four to 14 days. Also, encephalitis and seizures occur in severe cases, progressing to a coma within 24-48 hours. To prevent Nipah infection, the HCDC advised people to regularly wash their hands with soaps, dodge direct contact with infected bats and pigs, and avoid consuming fruits or fruit products contaminated with urine or saliva from infected fruit bats. In India, this has been the fourth outbreak of the Nipah virus since 2018. The Nipah virus was first detected in Malaysia and Singapore in the 1998-99 period, killing 105 people, including 96 in Malaysia and nine in Singapore. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Police in Mai Son District, Son La Province, northern Vietnam have temporarily detained a high school kitchen worker on suspicion of his adding insecticides and pesticides to meals served to students. A leader of the management board of Chu Van Thinh High School in Mai Son District on Wednesday afternoon confirmed that local police had detained H.T.T., a 39-year-old worker in the schools kitchen, in order to carry out an investigation into allegations of intentionally causing harm to or endangering the health of others. Investigators are currently analyzing samples of the poisoned food, according to the leader. T. is the spouse of the former principal of Chu Van Thinh High School. At around 10:30 am on September 22, staff at the school noticed a strange odor emanating from a pot of boiled chayote. In response, the school promptly prohibited students from eating the chayote and asked for a police investigation into the smell. The probe raised suspicions about T. putting a small quantity of ant and cockroach killer into the chayote pot. The Mai Son District police thus made the decision to temporarily apprehend T. and are presently in the process of gathering the necessary documents to initiate legal proceedings against the suspect, as per established protocols. Over 1,200 students are currently enrolled at Chu Van Thinh High School, 400 of whom are day students and eat their meals on campus. According to the schools administrators, the incident was detected early and no one was harmed. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! In Vietnam, the import of wild-caught lobster larvae is under strict control because of short supply, yet the smuggling of this in-demand shellfish remains rampant on social media, posing immeasurable risks. Many raft owners in Cam Ranh City, Khanh Hoa Province find it difficult to import official lobster larva shipments, while some online sellers offer lobster larvae in great numbers and with plenty of pricing. When buying lobster larvae becomes a gamble Despite being aware of numerous risks in quality, many consumers still go for buying lobster larvae online. "Vendors vaguely claimed that these infant lobsters hailed either from Indonesia or the Philippines, said Le Phuong Dung, a buyer in Cam Linh Ward, Cam Ranh City. The price per lobster larva peaked at VND60,000 (US$2.46) in July and August, while each cost about VND40,000 ($1.64) at the moment, said Dung. Besides purchasing from a regular contact, she usually orders lobster larvae online as this kind of trading is fast and affordable. Screenshot of posts selling foreign lobster larvae at cheap prices all over Facebook Baby lobsters need to be released into the water for customers to know whether they are vigorous or not, but those having sunk in the water cannot be returned even if it could be the providers fault, meaning buyers have to accept all the risk. Additionally, raising lobster larvae is like taking a gamble, for most of the larvae batch is highly likely to die on account of its own poor quality or inferior water source, said a buyer named Pham Ngoc Thanh in Cam Thuan Ward, also in Cam Ranh City. In the role of a lobster larva customer, a Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper reporter contacted a Facebook account called H.Ng., who provides a variety of juvenile lobsters with different values in large numbers. Baby lobsters with green and white colors cost VND36,000 [$1.48] individually, while cobalt blue and ornate rock lobster larvae from Indonesia are respectively priced at VND33,000 [$1.35] and VND40,000 [$1.64] apiece, this person said. The tiny lobsters are packed in styrofoam boxes with oxygen aeration and delivered to rafts as far as in Binh Dinh and Phu Yen Provinces, south-central Vietnam, with purchase quantity unrestricted. However, the seller stammered when asked about the products certificate of origin or food safety testing, stating its just fine as long as customers receive robust lobster larvae." Le Van Hoan, deputy director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in Khanh Hoa Province, said a report on the shortage of lobster larvae is being compiled and completed to send to the provincial authorities. Lobster diseases potentially break out Illegal lobster larva transportation highly likely leads to the emergence of seriously contagious fatal diseases, such as white spot disease and milky haemolymph syndrome in lobsters, causing mass mortalities in the aquaculture of the crustacean worldwide including Vietnam. The Khanh Hoa Department of Agriculture and Rural Development affirmed its written notice being sent to the Peoples Committees of other provinces and cities to prevent smuggling, illegal trading, and transportation of lobster larvae from abroad to Vietnam via road, air, and some localities sharing a border with Cambodia. This photo shows lobster larvae being raised in tanks in Khanh Hoa Province, south-central Vietnam. Photo: Thanh Chuong / Tuoi Tre The authorities will strictly handle cases of illegitimately transporting and trading larvae of unknown origin, along with encouraging lobster businesses to conform to regulations on aquatic-breeding management, said Hoan. Meanwhile, an official of the Khanh Hoa Sub-Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine said that no larva batch has been imported into this locality since the end of June 2023, meaning that these lobster larvae sold online must be smuggled or commercial fraud. The sub-department and relevant agencies are pooling information on this case and reporting it to the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development alongside the National Steering Committee for Anti-Smuggling, Counterfeit Goods, and Trade Fraud to find solutions to the problem. In the meantime, white spot disease pathogens in shrimps elevate their death rate up to 100 percent within a short time since this virus is quickly infectious among prawns and present in many sources like lobsters themselves, water sources or intermediate hosts, said Nguyen Tan Sy, deputy director of Nha Trang Universitys Institute for Aquaculture based in Khanh Hoa Province. Either contaminated cultivated environment or seasonal changes do create favorable conditions for viruses to thrive and break out on a large scale, he said. According to him, that some retailers who import lobsters into Khanh Hoa without complying strictly with relevant regulations results in the larvaes high risk of contracting diseases. On the other hand, the Institute for Aquaculture, with the support of the national government, will soon establish a long-term commitment with several Indonesian companies to export lobster larvae to Vietnam via the official channel in order to ensure quantity and quality for breeders, Sy said. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Upstream floodwaters caused by heavy rains over the past couple of days took a heavy toll on a pig farm in Thanh Hoa Province, north-central Vietnam, with 1,108 pigs swept away as of 10:00 am on Thursday. The incident triggered estimated losses of over VND3 billion (US$123,259), Dong Van Thanh, who manages the pig farm under Nhu Xuan Agriculture Development Company, located in the provinces Nhu Xuan District, told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on the same day. Le Tien Dat, head of the districts agriculture and rural development sub-department, said the agency has worked with relevant bodies and the company to jointly cope with the aftermath of the incident. Floodwaters inundate a pig farm in Thanh Son Commune, Nhu Xuan District, Thanh Hoa Province, north-central Vietnam. Photo: Supplied Authorities and the farm operator called on local residents to return the missing pigs, with each weighing some 60 kilograms on average, to the farm if they discover any of them in their areas. By Thursday morning, local people had caught and returned 60 of the missing pigs to the farm. For pigs killed in the incident, authorities will collect and cull them as per prevailing regulations to ensure environmental hygiene, Dat said. Before the incident, this farm was home to some 8,500 pigs, making it the largest of its kind in Nhu Xuan. The significant losses caused by bad weather conditions made life tougher for the company, for the farm was put into operation recently and required a huge investment, the operator said. The company is in need of support from authorities to help the farm cope with the happening, Thanh said. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The Peoples Committee of Binh Duong Province in southern Vietnam and the Vietnam Railways on Wednesday debuted an international multimodal train transporting cargo from Song Than Station to China. The train with 19 carriages carried nearly 500 metric tons of tapioca starch. The train departed from Song Than Station the same day, and is set to arrive in Putian, Zhengzhou in Chinas Henan on October 5. Attending the inauguration ceremony, Le Manh Ha, CEO at T&T Trade and Service Company, said that the demand for freight transport to China is high. Firms can now conduct export procedures at Song Than Station, instead of any border station. The launch of the international multimodal transport train services has smoothed the path for local importers, exporters, and logistic service providers. Dang Sy Manh, chairman of the Vietnam Railways, said that Song Than Station is capable of handling 1.6 million metric tons of cargo, mainly consumer goods, garments and textiles, electronics, motorcycles, and farm produce, a year. The train runs from Song Than Station in Binh Duong Province to China, and can transit Russia, Mongolia, Central Asia, and Europe. The transport time of goods from Vietnam to Europe by train is some one week faster than other means. Railway units will upgrade Song Than Station in Binh Duong Province, southern Vietnam. Photo: Duc Phu / Tuoi Tre The Ministry of Transport is working to upgrade Song Than Station, said Manh. During the 2025-30 period, the upgraded railway station will reach a capacity of 3.5 million metric tons of goods a year, and become the largest freight station among Vietnams railway stations. Once the investment in infrastructure for international multimodal transport train services at Song Than Station is completed, trains will operate each day to boost export-import activities in Binh Duong Province and neighboring localities. Annual railway-based import and export hit 1.1 million metric tons of cargo every year in Vietnam. The government already passed a plan to improve the capacity of international multimodal railway transport in late 2022, Manh said. As per the plan, in the coming years, the volume of cargo transported by international multimodal trains will surge three- or four-fold from the current figure, he added. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Following the Writers Strike breakthrough, negotiations will finally resume between US actors and studios. SAG-AFTRA and the AMPTP will resume negotiations for a new TV / Theatrical contract on Monday, October 2. Several executives from AMPTP member companies will be in attendance, both sides have said in a joint statement. The AMPTP and SAG-AFTRA have not resumed bargaining in good faith since the union, consisting of roughly 160,000 members, declared a strike on July 14th. SAG-AFTRA negotiations lead Duncan Crabtree Ireland and union president Fran Drescher are expected to convene with the producers. While the WGA agreement with AMPTP gives hope for optimism, the actors union has some individual concerns that need to be addressed in its contract talks. While they include thorny issues such as giving casts a percentage of streaming platform subscription revenues, there are also smaller points such as meal break penalty increases and size of relocation allowances. SAG-AFTRA members continue to picket studios. We continue to stand in solidarity with @sagaftra as they continue their strike and hope they too reach an acceptable agreement soon. #SAGAFTRAstrike MEAA (@withMEAA) September 27, 2023 Source: Deadline, Hollywood Reporter, Variety Ever since The Newsreader premiered on ABC in 2021, industry pundits have been playing something of a guessing game. Who was the inspiration for the lead roles, particularly ruthless 1980s news boss Lindsay Cunningham played mercilessly by the commanding William McInnes? So many people contacted us and thought their old bosses must have been who Lindsay was based on. So that speaks badly for the industry! executive producer Joanna Werner told TV Tonight. But creator Michael Lucas revealed: Everyone wanted confirmation, Is it Peter Meakin, is it John Sorell? The answer is I heard a lot about both of them, and theyre all sort of fused in together. It was longtime Melbourne news staffer Carol Hall who gave Lucas some of his best insights. Carol Hall has been sort of been my main research contact, but now its sort of bled out to a lot of them. She came up through Seven Nightly News, then she went to Hinch, A Current Affair, then she went to The Project. She began as a news researcher and a librarian. She was perfect because she knew the whole world. She had all the contacts and a background and research. She came on set and gave us some direction, because all of our extras in the newsroom, for example, all have a specific job. So they learned how to be the librarian or trolley pusher, and knew what exactly each person would do, Werner added. We got a fantastic response from those in the media and it was really fantastic to be contacted by journalists we admire, talking about their experiences and how closely they related to the show. To see that now happen in the UK with journalists talking about their experience being reflected back to them from the show. So thats all been great. We certainly found out that theres some good fans within the press. Lucas agreed. I feel like now they seek me out and they just want to tell me all of their worst stories of their worst bosses. And Im really happy to hear that! The Newsreader continues 8:30pm Sunday on ABC, all episodes on iview. Turkeys oldest film festival, the Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival, has been thrown into turmoil after jury members resigned and filmmakers withdrew their work from the competition over accusations of censorship. In an unprecedented move, the producers and directors of 27 entries at the Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival on Wednesday announced they were pulling out, days after 20 members of the festival jury quit over the organizers removal of a documentary. Kanun Hukmu (The Decree) by Nejla Demirci focuses on two public employees, a teacher and doctor, who were dismissed from their jobs under the state of emergency imposed in Turkey following an attempted coup in 2016. Turkeys Justice and Development Party (AKP) government initiated a massive purge of state institutions following a coup attempt on 15 July 2016. More than 130,000 civil servants were fired from their jobs through emergency decrees. The authorities said they lost their jobs due to suspected ties to terrorist organizations, but critics have alleged a general crackdown against anyone viewed as opponents by the government. Festival director Ahmet Boyacoglu said the documentary had been removed from the national documentary film category because of ongoing legal proceedings against one of the people featured. For this reason, it has been decided to exclude the film from this years selection in order not to affect the judicial process and impartiality, he said. However, Demirci said that was an excuse and outright censorship. Poster for Kanun Hukmu - Ney Film Faced with a storm of criticism, with filmmakers calling for respect for the freedom of expression and the Free Art Assembly, which represents artists across many fields, describing the films exclusion as an assault on artistic expression and creativity and a move to normalize censorship across artistic fields, the documentary has been reinstated into the program of the Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival. The ministry made the following statement on its social media account: "The Ministry of Culture and Tourism is dedicated to working with the vision of preserving, developing, and strengthening Turkey's cultural and artistic values. In line with this vision, it supports hundreds of cultural and artistic events held both within the country and abroad." Story continues "One of the most significant events in the field of Turkish cinema, the 60th Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival, is currently in the process of being organized. In the documentary competition section of this festival, the documentary titled 'Kanun Hukmu' is included," continued the statement. "It is deeply regrettable that in such an important festival, there is a possibility of using the power of art to propagate FETO terrorist organization propaganda under the pretext of victimization. Our ministry will not be a part of any effort to discredit the heroic struggle our nation waged on July 15th, or to use art as a means of provocation. For this reason, we announce our withdrawal from the Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival." Additionally, Antalya Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Muhittin Bocek issued the following statement: "For the past four years, the Antalya Metropolitan Municipality has not interfered in the formation of selection committees, the selection of juries, the content of films, or the decision of whether a film wins or not, and it will not do so in the future. The national competition category, which was previously removed from the festival's scope by the previous administration, has been reintroduced during our term with great effort and the belief in restoring the festival to its essence. This decision is the clearest indication of our stance against censorship." The festival, which has been run since 1963 in the Mediterranean city of Antalya, is a highlight of the Turkish cultural calendar. This year it is due to run from 7 14 October. It is not yet known whether the festival will go ahead as planned or whether the filmmakers who have withdrawn their films will attend now that Kanun Hukmu has been reinstated. James Ibori, former governor of Nigeria's Delta State, speaks after a court hearing outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London LONDON (Reuters) - British and Nigerian civil society groups have urged the British government to return funds confiscated from Nigerian politician James Ibori, a convicted fraudster, to his country in a swift and transparent way so the money can benefit ordinary Nigerians. In a letter to Britain's home and foreign affairs ministers, a coalition of close to 50 NGOs said the long-delayed confiscation process had undermined the strong anti-corruption message sent by Ibori's conviction over a decade ago. "The years of disruption and delay in recovering and returning these stolen assets means this message has so far rung hollow for the Nigerian people," said the letter, made public on Thursday by one of its signatories, Spotlight on Corruption. A former governor of oil-producing Delta State in southern Nigeria, Ibori pleaded guilty in a London court in 2012 to 10 counts of fraud and money-laundering and was handed a 13-year jail sentence, of which he served about half before going home. Still influential in Nigeria, Ibori has had meetings with President Bola Tinubu in recent months and has friends and associates in other powerful positions. The NGOs, which also included Transparency International and Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice, said funds confiscated from him should go to projects benefitting the people of Delta State and implementation should be subject to civil society monitoring. Efforts by British prosecutors to confiscate Ibori's assets began in 2013 but have run into repeated obstacles and delays in the London courts. In July, a judge ordered the confiscation of 101.5 million pounds ($123.9 million) from him, one of the biggest orders under Britain's Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 since it came into force. He has applied for leave to appeal against the order and his application is at the early stages of the appeal process. ($1 = 0.8193 pounds) (Reporting by Estelle Shirbon; Editing by Alexandra Hudson) By Gabriela Baczynska BRUSSELS (Reuters) -The European Union's top migration official said the bloc was set to agree on how to handle irregular immigration soon after ministers' talks yielded no final deal on Thursday with Berlin and Rome worried over rising arrivals ahead of key elections. The ministers were searching for agreement on a long-stalled system for the sharing out across the EU of asylum seekers who reach Europe outside of official border crossings. "I'm sure that in a few days we will have a formal decision on the general approach for the crisis mechanism," said EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson, declining to give details. She put irregular arrivals this year at 250,000 people -- mostly those who fled wars and poverty in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, and reached the EU across the Mediterranean. All eyes were on whether German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser backed the so-called "crisis mechanism" for distributing people to avoid overwhelming Italy and other countries of entry after Berlin sunk a similar proposal last summer. A diplomat told Reuters that Berlin agreed to an updated scheme during talks of the bloc's 27 migration ministers in Brussels on Thursday. But there was no full announcement of an agreement, with diplomatic sources pointing to Italy for delay. Asked about the matter during a visit in Berlin on Thursday, Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Rome had asked for more time to examine the latest proposal. The bloc's 27 governments want to have a functioning migration system in place to look in control for their voters ahead of a pan-EU parliamentary election in 2024. On Wednesday Germany announced new border controls within what normally is Europe's zone of open travel, saying that was required to push back against people smuggling. The border checks with neighbouring Poland and the Czech Republic came after Germany recorded a nearly-80% rise in asylum requests this year, a concern for the centre-left ruling coalition facing a challenge from the far right in a local election in Bavaria next month. Story continues Such controls highlight how difficulties in handling migration challenge cooperation inside the bloc. "Obviously, nobody is happy with new internal border controls," said a senior EU diplomat, adding that an agreement on the "crisis mechanism" would shore up the EU's struggling migration system and reduce the need for such measures. 'CLOSER THAN EVER BEFORE' Migration experts, however, warn about practical difficulties in implementing any such schemes, while rights groups denounced earlier proposals as violating human rights. The ministers also discussed seeking a deal with Egypt to prevent more people from setting off from the southern shores of the Mediterranean for Europe. Critics have said a recent such agreement with Tunisia falls short on human rights grounds but more potential deals are on the cards as Rome sounds alarm over Lampedusa arrivals topping those in 2022 - the year when Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni won a national election on an anti-immigration ticket. Italian data shows more than 133,000 sea arrivals to date in 2023, compared to nearly 181,500 in the country's record year, 2016. The EU - a bloc of some 45 million people - has been pushing tougher policies to curb irregular immigration since more than a million people reached its shores in 2015, catching the union by surprise and overwhelming countries including Italy. At the same time, member states have been divided over how to share the task of caring for those who make it to Europe. "We are closer than ever before," EU Commissioner Margaritis Schinas told the ministerial talks of the agreement, which is expected to be finalised next week. Schinas said a deal would "finally deprive the demagogues and the populists in Europe" of their argument "that we are not able to sort out our migration problem". Though unable to block the deal on their own, Poland and Hungary oppose hosting asylum seekers from the Middle East or Africa. They have, however, welcomed several million refugees from Russia's war in Ukraine. Johansson said 4 million Ukrainians live under special protection status inside the EU. (Reporting by Gabriela Baczynska, additional reporting by Alvise Armellini and Francesca Piscioneri in Rome, Alexander Ratz in Berlin and Emma Pinedo Gonzalez in Madrid; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise, Ros Russell and Alison Williams) (Reuters) - Germany last week became the latest European country to propose restrictions or bans on the use of equipment made by China's Huawei and ZTE, citing security concerns. The European Union's industry chief Thierry Breton in June urged more EU countries to join the efforts to curb or block Huawei and ZTE equipment from the bloc's 5G telecoms networks. Here are the countries that have introduced curbs so far: BRITAIN Britain in 2020 decided to ban Huawei and other vendors it deemed a high security risk from 5G networks. Last year, it extended the deadline to remove Huawei's equipment from the core 5G network until the end of 2023. ESTONIA Estonia's parliament approved new legislation in 2021 that effectively banned telecom operators from choosing Chinese vendors for telecom equipment. DENMARK Danish lawmakers in 2021 passed legislation to allow the screening of foreign investments to ensure they do not pose a threat to national security. The new legislation was developed in part following security concerns over a bid by Huawei to build Denmark's 5G network. FRANCE French authorities in 2020 told telecoms operators planning to buy Huawei 5G equipment that they would not be able to renew licences for the gear once they expire, effectively phasing Huawei out of mobile networks. GERMANY Germany's interior ministry on Sept. 20 proposed forcing telecoms operators to remove all critical components made by Huawei and ZTE in their 5G core networks by 2026. ITALY While Italy has not outright banned Huawei equipment, it prevented telecoms group Fastweb in 2020 from signing a deal for Huawei to supply equipment for its 5G network. LATVIA Latvia and the U.S. signed an agreement in 2020 on 5G security aimed at limiting the operations of Chinese companies. LITHUANIA Lithuania's parliament in 2021 decreed that only equipment approved by the government on national security grounds could be used for the country's next-generation 5G network. Story continues PORTUGAL Portugal's telecoms watchdog said on Sept. 18 it was working with operators to implement a high-level resolution which effectively bars Huawei's equipment from the country's 5G mobile networks. ROMANIA Romania's government approved in 2021 a U.S.-backed bill that effectively barred China and Huawei from taking part in the development of the country's 5G network. SWEDEN Sweden in 2020 banned telecoms equipment from Huawei and ZTE in its 5G network. An appeals court in June upheld the ban. (Compiled by Tristan Veyet, Antonis Pothitos, Laura Lenkiewicz; Editing by Milla Nissi and Jan Harvey) Mairi McConnochie (Image: Healthcare Improvement Scotland) A GLASGOW woman who volunteered in Africa 15 years ago is now the driving force behind a project which could help Scotland cope better with Covid-like outbreaks in the future. Mairi McConnochie, who lives on the Southside of the city, is visiting Malawi as Scotland co-ordinator of the Global Health Partnership Programme, funded by the Scottish Government's International Development Fund. Glasgow Times: Mairi McConnochie, who has been spearheading the project Mairi McConnochie, who has been spearheading the project (Image: Healthcare Improvement Scotland) She explained: Theres a lot we can learn from these nations. They are operating with lower budgets which drives innovation so it will be really interesting for us to see what they are able to do. During the pandemic I attended an online conference and heard someone from a health ministry in southern Africa being asked how they were coping with the Covid-19 situation. She answered that it was just another infectious disease epidemic for them. Thats the reality, as health workers there are often far more used to dealing with large scale infectious disease outbreaks than we are and that is definitely an area where we can learn from their experiences. Mairi first visited Africa 15 years ago, to work as a volunteer in sexual health awareness, and she was struck by the health inequalities facing many who lived there. Now working for Healthcare Improvement Scotland, she involved the organisation in the global health initiative, which will see experts from Scotland, Malawi and Zambia work together to share knowledge and improve patient safety and the use of medications. READ NEXT: Glasgow woman's dream job behind the scenes of UK's top theatre shows The Quality Improvement in Global Health Partnership Programme was set up in 2019 as a partnership between Scotland, Malawi and Zambia to allow people with a passion to share knowledge to come together and learn from each other. During the four day trip to Malawi the delegation from Scotland will visit local hospitals to meet staff and see the work in progress. Mairi said: It will be great to see first-hand some of the work we have been involved in and the quality improvement initiatives come to life. Making a difference is what it is all about and Im inspired and excited to see the great things that can happen through this partnership. By Amina Ismail HAMDANIYA, Iraq (Reuters) - Iraqi Christians once driven from their village by Islamic State are blaming another enemy for an inferno that killed more than 100 of their friends and relatives at a wedding this week: chronic political rot and lax governance. After returning from years of exile during Iraq's war with the extremist Islamists, residents rebuilding their lives in their hometown of Hamdaniya said that where the vanquished jihadists had failed to kill them, corruption succeeded. "Islamic State didn't kill us, this catastrophe killed us," Priest Boutros Shito said, speaking at a local church hall while mourners buried the remains of their loved ones. Shito lost both his parents, two of his sisters and two nephews to the fire, which tore through a packed wedding hall in Hamdaniya, also called Qaraqosh, on Wednesday. More than 100 people died, government officials said. "In this country we always wait until a disaster occurs and then deal with the results," Shito said. "Our home is now empty of family because of greed and corruption." Government officials have announced the arrest of 14 people over Tuesday night's fire, including the owners of the events hall, and promised a swift investigation with results announced within 72 hours. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani visited victims of the blaze at two local hospitals on Thursday and said he directed that the strictest-possible legal penalties be imposed "on those who were negligent and responsible for the tragic fire incident". Witnesses said the blaze began about an hour into the event when flares set fire to a ceiling decoration. They said the hall had no visible fire extinguishers and few emergency exits and that it took firefighters half an hour to get there. It is the latest in a series of tragic accidents across Iraq that have killed hundreds of people in the last few years, including a fire at a Baghdad hospital in 2021 and a capsized river ferry in Mosul in 2019. Story continues All the accidents have been blamed on negligence, lax regulations and corruption. Criticism of a lax approach to public safety is common in Iraq, a country where the state has been weakened by recurring conflict since the 2003 U.S. invasion, and where services are impaired by pervasive corruption. ISIS GONE, CORRUPTION ENTRENCHED After decades of dictatorship and internal oppression, the 2003 invasion unleashed violence and civil war that fuelled extremist groups such as Al Qaeda. In 2014, in a spillover from the Syrian civil war next door, Al Qaeda successor Islamic State marauded into northern Iraq and took over a third of the country. Majority-Christian Hamdaniya was among the scores of towns and cities Islamic State fighters captured after declaring an Islamic caliphate from nearby Mosul, Iraq's second-biggest city. Most of Hamdaniya's inhabitants fled, fearing persecution and death at the hands of the jihadists. Iraqi and international forces expelled the militants from Hamdaniya in 2016 during a campaign to defeat the group in Iraq and Syria. Many residents have since returned with the Islamist threat gone. But after the wedding fire this week, some say any hopes for a better future are being crushed by the reality of a haphazard and dysfunctional effort to rebuild their homeland. The events hall where the fire took place this week was built in 2016 right after the Hamdaniya was recaptured as a way to encourage the return of normal life. Government officials say a lack of safety and security measures and the use of highly flammable materials in the building helped the fire spread. In a sermon interrupted at times by the wails of women clad in black, a priest at Al-Tahira Church in Hamdaniya told mourners on Thursday that Iraq had been united in grief but criticized officials for "your corruption, your favouritism". "Nothing is up to standard in this country," he said. (Reporting by Amina Ismail in Hamdaniya and Timour Azhari in Baghdad; Writing by Timour Azhari; Editing by Christina Fincher and Emelia Sithole-Matarise) Growth in productivity has accelerated at the fastest rate in Northern Ireland, but the regions overall productivity levels remain the lowest across the UK, according to new analysis by PwC UK. Pictured is Caitroina McCusker, PwC regional market leader, Northern Ireland Growth in productivity has accelerated at its fastest rate in Northern Ireland, but the regions overall productivity levels remain the lowest across the UK, according to new analysis by PwC UK. The findings have been published in PwCs Industrial Manufacturing and Services Productivity Tracker, which analyses productivity progress across the UK, with a focus on the key sectors that contribute to UK growth including manufacturing, construction, and services. The tracker shows Northern Ireland has experienced the highest productivity growth rate in the UK, with the region's output per hour growing by 13.5% between 2011 and 2021. The PwC research highlights that Northern Irelands high productivity growth rates can be attributed in part to the region receiving some of the largest amounts of investment (measured by Gross Fixed Capital Formation as a share of gross value added [GVA] in 2020). PwC predicts that if Northern Ireland continues to prioritise investment and is successful in translating this funding into improved efficiency, it could see further significant boosts to long-term productivity rates. The productive potential of Northern Ireland has also been buoyed by the economic performance of Belfast, which has helped to drive growth across Northern Ireland as a whole. Recent research from PwC found that Belfast ranks as one of the leading cities in the devolved nations based on measures including jobs, skills and business start-ups. The Belfast Region City Deal has also been identified as a catalyst for business growth in the region through its focus on research and development. Caitroina McCusker, PwC regional market leader, Northern Ireland, said: Whilst any growth in productivity is to be welcomed, Northern Ireland still has the lowest productivity of any UK region, around 17% below the national average. Story continues This is due, in part, to Northern Ireland having fewer jobs in high-productivity sectors such as financial services. But even outside of this, Northern Ireland has a significant productivity gap in both the production sector - primarily manufacturing - and the services sector. It is important to recognise that the 2021 data is likely to be affected by the pandemic so it is too soon to draw clear policy conclusions. However, we do know that one of the most effective ways to accelerate future productivity growth is through investment in a broad range of skills, and in particular to target funding towards skills that will be of increasing importance in the years to come. That includes the priority clusters outlined in the 10x Economy vision. We continue to recommend increased investment in business-led reskilling initiatives to raise skills levels in NI, in the areas which have the greatest long term impact and contribute to productivity-led economic growth. Getting this right could have huge economic benefits for the region. If Northern Ireland productivity was to catch up to the UK-wide sectoral medians, it could add 7bn to the local economy here. Professor John Turner, Northern Ireland productivity forum lead, added: It is welcome news that Northern Ireland has begun to close its productivity gap to the UK. However, even if it maintains this performance, it will take around 15 years before it surpasses the UK average. We must also wait to see whether this growth can be maintained, or if it simply reflects temporary changes to working hours and output that resulted from the Covid-19 pandemic. This underlines the importance of addressing the underlying drivers of productivity, where Northern Ireland often lags behind its peers across the UKs regions." SPOILER ALERT: This article contains detains of the Reservation Dogs series finale Dig, which dropped late last night on Hulu. Im leaving, Elora (Devery Jacobs) tells Bear (DPharaoh Woon-A-Tai) in the Reservation Dogs series finale as they sit before the coffin of Old Man Fixico (Richard Ray Whitman). Its awesome Im proud of you, Bear replies after a pause, giving his best friend his support. I mean, of course, Im going to miss you, he adds, as the duo tell each other with tears how much they truly love each other after all they have been through over the shows three seasons. More from Deadline Youre reminded were a community, and we take care of each other, and that is something that Ive always wanted to show in this show, co-creator Sterlin Harjo says of the finale, the funeral and the series itself. As he has in every one of the Rez Dogs three seasons on FX and Hulu, Harjo directed the finale, which he also co-wrote with Chad Charlie. Everything that you see on this episode is exactly what happens in my community. It is a clear reflection indeed. A delicately crafted departure full of mourning, celebration, reflection and community, Dig openly pays homage to its influences of auteur cinema, personal history and the setting of soundtrack. Locked and loaded, as Paulina Alexis Willie Jack declares, the emotionally and psychologically comprehensive finale ranks as one of the best series-enders the small screen has witnessed in a long time. At a running time of 38 minutes and at the end of a 28-episode run, it is a thing complete unto itself with life and death and the importance of everything in between and beyond right up front. Story continues Set among the Indigenous communities of rural Oklahoma and co-starring Lane Factor as Cheese, the Harjo- and Tailka Waititi-created Rez Dogs announced in late June that the third season of the Peabody Award-winning show would be its last. The third and final 10-episode season starring Zahn McClarnon, Kirk Fox, Gary Farmer, Elva Guerra, Sarah Podemski and Lily Gladstone debuted August 2 with a two-episode premiere. Letting the Dig finale percolate a bit after its streaming debut late last night, Harjo spoke with me about bringing this conclusion together, his homage to Robert Altman, and some Robbie Robertson. Revealing a bit about his future projects (we see you, Ethan Hawke), the filmmaker also introduced me to the term fekke hvmken and how it lies at the heart of the end of Reservation Dogs. DEADLINE: Its an old TV trope that series finales can leave a sweet or bitter aftertaste. So what is your take on Dig? HARJO: I think the last episode, for me, its kind of this welcoming end of all of my characters back to this community, this world. Its also reflective I think, of what we created as a family, as artists. It is a very supportive, inspired, open community of artists making this show, and then that expanded to the fans, and the fans have been with us from the beginning. Everything that you see on this episode is exactly what happens in my community. We fast. We sing songs as you transport the body to different places, and you finally end in this church. The men dig. Women cook. You break the fast in the morning. You eat, and its all this thing of where we come together, and people are very sad, but theyre also laughing, and youre reminded of why we do this. Youre reminded were a community, and we take care of each other, and that is something that Ive always wanted to show in this show. DEADLINE: The show had a uniquely strong bond with its audience, I found HARJO: Dom, I get so many heartwarming messages from people thanking me for making the show Natives, non-Natives, all across the board. Theyre all thanking me for making the show, and for me, the best thing that I can do for those fans that love this show is to make the best finale of any show thats ever been done, you know? I personally think that this finale is as good, or better, than any finale ever made. I think that if it doesnt satisfy you, Id be very surprised. DEADLINE: It is literally a goodbye with the death and funeral of death of Fixico, a deft move youve been building towards this final season. Why did you and Chad make that choice? HARJO: Because, the show is about community, and so, for me, it was always going to be something like this. You know, I think that with Willie Jack and what she says at the end its like, you know, some will leave, some will go, you know, but well always come back here, well always have each other, and itll keep going on like that forever. Its just something like that. Thats, for me, the show. Thats like, weve permeated everything. This show can never not exist. DEADLINE: So, is the journey over? HARJO: Like a spinoff? Maybe, I have ideas, but theyre not this story. DEADLINE: How do you mean? HARJO: For this story, for this story to end, I wanted to bring everyone back because, yeah, I needed to, like, properly send everyone off. Its this family that I created thats based on my family. Its not about four kids. Its about this whole community, and Im meaning to show that, because thats what its about and it is beautiful. And my real family were there. DEADLINE: Thats amazing. HARJO: Yeah, my real family, theyre extras in the show, you know? DEADLINE: Very cool HARJO: Yeah. So, its like its more meaningful than I can really say, because my family was there celebrating the show with me. And, you know, my family couldnt be prouder of the show. DEADLINE: I bet HARJO: My dad said something one day that really stuck with me. He said, the show gave Native people a reason to really hold their head up and be proud. To hear my Native dad say that, you kind of think like, it doesnt matter what any nomination you dont get. Its like, thats what matters that somebody could say something like that about something that you created. There was this idea in our culture called fekke hvmken. Which is the idea youre so close to people or so in sync. It was used in war, in battle together and stuff. You would be so in sync with each other, or it could be that love or family, but youd be so in sync with each other, that your heart beats at the same time. DEADLINE: Thats beautiful. HARJO: I know, right? Your heart syncs up and beats with each other, and thats really what it felt like on this show, the whole crew, every actor, everyone that was involved. It was like we were just on the same page, and we didnt have always talk to get it. So, in the finale, theres not a lot of over-explaining anything. We dont talk like, the show never over-explains anything. Even in the finale where weve done it all, its just about letting this unfold beautifully and experience what weve been talking about this whole time. Weve been talking in this whole show about how communitys important. Kenny Boy (Kirk Fox) even says it, and you know, now lets experience it. DEADLINE: For you creatively, how did that translate getting on camera? HARJO: Interesting you ask. You know, when I was deciding what to do, how to direct it, I thought, who does this the best? And I immediately thought of Robert Altman and Nashville. DEADLINE: Really? HARJO: Yeah, how he brings so many characters together and has them interact at the same time, and you know, so, theres a lot of homage to Nashville and Robert Altman films in that finale. I was inspired by Atlanta too. I look at shows like Atlanta, and I feel really good about the future of cinema and the blending of TV and movies. I think that were in a good place, and Im excited to see what comes out of that. DEADLINE: Let me bounce a thats interesting back at you HARJO: (laughs) Alright .. DEADLINE: because, you know, I always feel, when I watch Rez Dogs, theres such a great sense of culture and community. I mean within Indigenous culture, the setting of Oklahoma, but theres also a great feel, a love of cinema, a love of music like the spot-on use of The Bands The Weight, which the recently departed Robbie Robertson wrote. HARJO: Yeah, he was an Indigenous artist and theyre of my favorite bands, you know. We put it there, and it was like, oh, man, how perfect would that be if we could use this, and not to mention that its one of the most famous songs thats been used on Easy Rider and whatever other movies. But I wanted it to be something that was recognizable and thats been used in cinema, because, you know, Reservation Dogs is a show that isnt afraid to point out and to wear its influences on its shoulder, on its sleeve. I think that is our real connection to Tarantino the show is full of homage to cinema that I love and that the other filmmakers love, and the same thing goes with music. I mean, there are some old cuts on this whole show that I hope people rediscover stuff because of it. But, also, here, it was important, man, important to shout-out to Robbie Robertson, who was a Native musician, and was a very talented musician that we just lost. DEADLINE: You mentioned the future of TV and cinema earlier. So what comes next for you? HARJO: I have a lot. I have a lot happening. You know, theres a couple projects with Ethan Hawke (who was in Rez Dogs penultimate episode) that I have. There are some feature films as well, and so, I hope to go right in. I had a great break after the show, but Im ready to direct again. (L-R) Ethan Hawke and Sterlin Harjo DEADLINE: And in saying goodbye to Rez Dogs, even just for now HARJO: You know, Dom, theres nothing that makes me prouder than if something that I created has a pivotal place in the lives and careers of the artists and the actors and the filmmakers and the writers that worked on this show. That was my favorite part. Being able to give opportunity, because thats all we need. We had the power. We just have to have opportunity, and FX allowed me to do that, and Im always grateful for that. 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. Russia has used Iran-made Shahed-136 drones to launch devastating attacks on cities in Ukraine over the last year. Global Images Ukraine/Getty Images Ukraine's air force shot down 34 Russian drones in an overnight attack, officials said. They were all Iranian-made Shahed drones, which Russia has used successfully in previous strikes. Russia is increasing its supply of one-way attack drones, but Ukraine has also been receiving better air defenses. Russia has been increasing its supply of one-way attack drones, acquiring them from Iran but also making them at home. Ukraine has also been bolstering its air defenses though with the help of Western aid. The drones Russia uses are sometimes called exploding drones because they crash into a target and detonate on impact. They have been used to devastating effect in Ukraine, even if many of the drones are shot down before they reach their target. Russia has used the Shahed-136 drones in a series of destructive attacks on Ukrainian cities in the last year. In one attack, Shahed-136 drones struck two energy facilities in Odesa, leaving 1.5 million people in Ukraine without power for several days. Again, not all drones make it through though. Ukraine's air force said on Thursday that their air defenses shot down 34 of 44 drones all of which were either Shahed-136s or Shahed-131s launched by Russia in an overnight attack on southern and central Ukraine. The attacks resulted in no casualties and no major damage. This defensive win comes almost two months after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said new air defense systems from the United States and Germany were yielding "significant results." Russia is working to produce thousands of cheaper, domestic-made versions of the Shahed-136. One expert previously told Insider that as Russia is trying to grow its fleet of drones, attacks could grow in size and possibly intensity into the winter, potentially straining Ukraine's improved air-defense capability. "Regardless of what we see in terms of tactical changes, the Russians will likely intensify the current level of drone strikes that they're doing against Ukraine in the winter," George Barros, a Russia analyst at the Institute for the Study of War, a Washington-based think tank, said. Read the original article on Business Insider FILE PHOTO: Ryanair says cabin crew strikes hitting less than 2% of flights FILE PHOTO: Ryanair says cabin crew strikes hitting less than 2% of flights By Foo Yun Chee and Sudip Kar-Gupta BRUSSELS (Reuters) -Ryanair on Thursday lost its appeal against Danish and Swedish state aid to pandemic-hit SAS airline, which was approved by EU competition authorities, in one of a spate of challenges by the low-cost carrier against such subsidies. The European Commission had in 2020 cleared two separate aid measures granted by Denmark and Sweden to SAS, involving a guarantee on a revolving credit facility of up to 1.5 billion Swedish kronor. The Luxembourg-based Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) endorsed the EU competition watchdog, concurring with a judgement by a lower tribunal in 2021 which upheld the EU decision. "State aid to SAS during the COVID-19 pandemic: the Court of Justice definitively dismisses Ryanair's actions concerning the loan guarantees put in place by Sweden and Denmark in April 2020," CJEU judges said. Europe's biggest budget airline has launched more than a score of lawsuits against the European Commission for nodding through billions of euros in state aid to its rivals affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting travel restrictions. It has a mixed record so far, winning some of its challenges and losing others. The case is C-320/21 P Ryanair v Commission and C-321/21 P Ryanair v Commission. (Reporting by Foo Yun Chee and Sudip Kar-Gupta; Editing by Sharon Singleton) Next time you see a fox when out walking with your dog, pause for a moment and ponder their relatedness. Dogs and foxes are distinct but distantly related canine species. Until recently, scientists thought it was impossible for them to breed. However, the discovery of a dog-fox hybrid in Brazil suggests that The Fox and the Hound might sometimes be a little more Lady and the Tramp. The recent identification of the dog-fox hybrid known as a dogxim (a cross between dog and graxaim-do-campo, the Portuguese name for pampas fox) in Brazil also raises concerns about the impact that our pet dogs might have on wild animal populations and their survival. This female, dog-like creature was first noticed when she was she was hit by a car and taken to a wildlife rehabilitation facility. The staff at the wildlife centre noticed she had a strange mix of physical and behavioural characteristics. Her pricked ears and preference for eating small mammals seemed fox-like, but her barking was more reminiscent of a dog. Throughout the centuries there have been unverified reports of fox-dog hybrids, but none have been confirmed before with genetic testing. Genetic testing revealed that she was a hybrid between a female pampas fox (Lycalopex gymnocercus) and a male domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris). This is the first documented case of a dog-fox hybrid. Genetic analysis revealed she had a total of 76 chromosomes, compared to the 78 chromosomes of the domestic dog and 74 of the pampas fox. What is a hybrid? Hybridisation is when two species mate and produce offspring with mixed genetic ancestry. Normally, animals only mate with members of their own species. Differences in the number of chromosomes (the structure in which DNA is packaged within the cell nucleus) often make species genetically incompatible with each other. Mating behaviour and courtship rituals tend to be individual to a species, such as the vocalisations of rutting deer, as is reproductive anatomy and physiology. Story continues Many well-known hybrids, such as mules (horse and donkey), ligers (male lion and female tiger) and tigons (male tiger and female lion), are a result of human intervention. A lion and tiger would never meet naturally in the wild, as their native ranges are too far apart. The more closely related (and thus genetically alike) two species are, the higher the chance of successful hybridisation. For example, dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) and grey wolves (Canis lupus) only diverged between 11,000 and 35,000 years ago. Wolf-dog hybrids are relatively common because their genetics, reproductive anatomy and behaviour are still fairly similar. Most hybrids are sterile, meaning they are biological dead-ends. Even if differences in chromosome numbers and behaviour dont prevent two species from producing young, it may make the hybrid infertile. How common are hybrids? Hybrids are more widespread than you might think - they are all around us in the plant world, both natural and as a result of human intervention. Research suggests that approximately 25% of plant and 10% of animal species have been affected by interbreeding in the wild. Many domesticated species can breed with their wild relatives too. In Poland, a 2018 study found high numbers of free-living wild boars had domestic genes, for example. Hybrid offspring are not always infertile, and some people are concerned about how this affects the long-term survival and purity of individual species. Hybrids can outcompete and eventually even replace their parent species. For endangered species with small, fragile populations, this is a serious threat. In the case of the dogxim, her fertility was not verified. Sadly, reports suggest she has since died, so we will probably never know. Why are hybrids controversial? Hybridisation is important in the evolution of species, allowing populations to adapt to changing environments. Early humans are widely recognised in science to have mated with Neanderthals, helping our ancestors survive in some harsh environments. Long term, hybrids can lead to the development of entirely new species. But there are also negative consequences. Physical abnormalities are common in hybrids including changes to skull, dental and horn structures, as seen in hybrid wildebeest. Hybridisation is also a problem for vulnerable populations or endangered species, leading to reduced fitness and therefore the survival of individuals and even whole populations. The Scottish wildcat wild population, for instance, is now almost entirely made up of wildcat-domestic cat hybrids. What does the dog-fox hybrid tell us? The dog-pampas fox hybrid strongly suggests that contact between wild and domestic species is increasing, possibly because of human settlements encroaching on wild habitats. This can also significantly increase disease transmission risks. The dogxim might well be a warning of the destructive impact humans and domesticated animals are having on biodiversity. We dont know how many other hybrids may be living in the wild. Although the pampas fox is not considered endangered, this example of hybridisation between a domestic and wild species signals the importance of monitoring interactions between different species, to protect vulnerable or numerically low populations. It is important to note that the pampas fox species is very different to the red fox (Vulpes vulpes). We probably do not need to worry about creating dog-fox hybrids on our daily dog walks, because of the genetic distance between the two. However, the dogxim should warn us that our dogs interactions with nature can have unexpected consequences. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. The Conversation Jacqueline Boyd is affiliated with The Kennel Club (UK) through membership, as Chair of the Activities Health and Welfare Subgroup and member of the Dog Health Group. Jacqueline also writes, consults and coaches on canine matters on an independent basis in addition to her academic affiliation. Letters to editor (Photo: JP) At present unionists are boycotting the devolved institutions because of a trade agreement with the EU to effectively keep us in the single market and Customs Union. Firstly, trade is not a devolved matter and is not under the control of the Executive. Secondly, the DUP is trying to exert pressure on this matter (basically to overturn the agreement reached by the UK and the EU) from a position of weakness rather than strength. DUP MLAs represent 28% of the total of 90 MLAs, the rest of whom want to form an Executive, including the UUP. Critics of the Windsor Agreement constantly berate the Government for amending the Act of Union 1801. However, this Act has been amended constantly by, for example, the Government of Ireland Act and the Good Friday Agreement legislation. The UK does not have a written constitution and any Act may be amended or repealed by Parliament at any time. Just because these critics do not agree with the Government does not place it in breach of Parliament's fundamental sovereignty. As a unionist I despair at the present course of action taken by the DUP. They are refusing to govern the country and thus giving some credence to the oft repeated nationalist mantra that NI is a failed statelet or ungovernable. Surely we can come to some agreement giving the DUP some cover on trade guarantees with the rest of the UK, in both directions, and get back to solving the myriad of problems we are facing, both budgetary and administrative, as soon as possible. If not then I fear that action will be taken to exclude the DUP and an Executive formed without them - an eventuality that would disenfranchise 184,000 voters and lead to even greater turmoil. Frank McClintock, Lisburn Armenia said on Wednesday it had received 42,500 refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh after Azerbaijan seized the territory in a lightning offensive. Ethnic Armenians are fleeing the Caucasus region, fearful of what its new owners might do, though Baku has promised to guarantee the safety of residents. Euronews has compiled these photos that capture the heartbreak - and suffering - of those leaving what they consider their ancestral homeland. Ethnic Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh walk along the road from Nagorno-Karabakh to Kornidzor in Syunik region, Armenia, Sept. 26, 2023. - Vasily Krestyaninov/Copyright 2023 The AP. All rights reserved A convoy of cars of ethnic Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh move to Kornidzor in Syunik region, Armenia, Sept. 26, 2023. - Vasily Krestyaninov/Copyright 2023 The AP. All rights reserved Ethnic Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh line up to receive humanitarian aid at a temporary camp in Goris in Syunik region, Armenia, on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023. - Vasily Krestyaninov/Copyright 2023 The AP. All rights reserved An ethnic Armenian woman from Nagorno-Karabakh sits inside an old Soviet style car as she arrives in Armenia's Goris in Syunik region, Armenia, on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. - Vasily Krestyaninov/Copyright 2023 The AP. All rights reserved Ethnic Armenian children from Nagorno-Karabakh look through a car window upon their arrival in Goris, the town in Syunik region, Armenia, Sept. 25, 2023. - Vasily Krestyaninov/Copyright 2023 The AP. All rights reserved Ethnic Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh ride a truck on their way to Kornidzor in Syunik region, Armenia, Sept. 26, 2023. - Stepan Poghosyan/PHOTOLURE Ethnic Armenians gather in hope to leave Nagorno-Karabakh region for Armenia in the center of Stepanakert, Nagorno-Karabakh on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023. - Siranush Sargsyan/Copyright 2023 The AP. All rights reserved. Private Nabin Thapa (Photo: UGC) Private Nabin Thapa, of the Royal Logistics Corps, passed away on September 21 at the Driffield Training Area, the former RAF Driffield airfield. He was based at Dishforth Airfield in North Yorkshire, where his regiment is stationed. Private Thapa, who played volleyball and badminton for his regiment, joined the Army in 2019 and had completed deployments to Cyprus as a UN peacekeeper and to Kenya and Oman. The MOD said: In the past year alone, he was part of a squadron held at high readiness for operations within the UK and deployed on demanding exercises in the UK and Oman. During both exercises he demonstrated his excellent trade knowledge and work ethic; he was a team player through and through. He had also recently undertaken adventurous training in Spain where he put his characteristic determination and high spirits to good use whilst hill walking in some unusually wet conditions. "Pte Thapa was a quiet and conscientious solider and was always the first to volunteer. No matter the scale of the task, he could be relied upon to be there. A selfless individual, Pte Thapa always looked out for others. In his own time, he undertook charity work in an effort to raise awareness and funds for those less fortunate than himself. A humble and understated individual, his cheerful outlook was infectious. "Pte Thapa became a rock to be relied upon when it came to any sort of tough work and an absolute asset to his chain of command. The regiment has been devastated to have lost a brilliant soldier in such difficult circumstances. His memory will be honoured in the squadron and wider regiment as a kind and caring individual; he will be sadly missed, but incredibly well remembered. Private Thapa, who was married, held charity events and donated money to the Gurkha Welfare Trust in his native Nepal. His colleagues recalled him saving a mans life during a rock fall on the training trip to Spain. The circumstances of Private Thapas death and the training exercise are being investigated by the Defence Accident Investigation Branch and Humberside Police. Humberside Police said: Officers were called to reports of a man having suffered a medical episode in Kelleythorpe on Thursday 21 September at 1.30pm. He was taken to hospital to receive treatment where he died a short while later. "The circumstances surrounding his death are not being treated as suspicious however, they currently remain unexplained. Officers are conducting lines of enquiry with assistance from the MOD. Our thoughts remain with his family at this extremely difficult time. How much do you really know about the history of the United Kingdom? What passes for British history is, all too often, merely the history of England with bits of the histories of Scotland, Wales and Ireland tacked on when they affected events in England. In a radio interview some years ago, the BBC presenter Nicky Campbell put it to me that, fun though the Romans or Tudors might be, only history nerds are interested in the Glorious Revolution of 1688. You say that because youre in London, I replied. You wouldnt say it if you were in Belfast. It only takes a short stroll through Belfast to see why. Unionist streets are famous for their colourful murals of the protestant hero William of Orange riding his white horse into battle above the words: Remember 1690! That was the year of his victory over the catholic James II at the Battle of the Boyne. The events of 1690 are still a sensitive topic in Northern Ireland, but theyre largely unknown in the rest of the UK. Any Scot knows about the controversial passage of the Act of Union in 1707, creating the joint kingdom of Great Britain but very few people in England have even heard of it, because it is hardly ever taught in schools. School constraints Part of the blame lies with educational tradition. It is quite normal for any countrys educational system to give priority to its national history. This has remained central to government thinking ever since the introduction of the national curriculum at the end of the 1980s. But what counts as national in a composite country like the UK? Teachers in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have long tried to balance the history of these nations with that of England. But for teachers in England, the problem is compounded precisely because England dwarfs the other nations in size and population. Many history textbooks make use of examples from other parts of the UK to illustrate common themes, but it is unusual for English schools to spend much time studying Scottish, Irish or Welsh history in its own right. Story continues Does this matter? According to the TV historian David Olusoga, it does. He has promoted his new BBC television series, aptly named Union, by calling on schools to teach more about the histories of the other nations of the UK, especially if we want the union to continue. With timetables heavily constrained, few history teachers will be able to rise to Olusogas challenge, especially with the requirement to balance the demands of British history with the need to teach about non-British and non-western themes. Many schools now spend more time on the history of India or China than on the history of Scotland or Ireland. In any case, most children in England drop history at 14, and at GCSE and A level the choice of topic is determined far more by examination boards and by what teaching materials are available, than by ideals and aspirations. The role of broadcasters If people are to learn more about the different histories that make up the United Kingdom, it might be better to make more creative and extensive use of broadcasting and other media outlets rather than imposing yet another initiative on overburdened schoolteachers. However, the ideal of a British history that gives a proper space to the histories of all parts of the United Kingdom is too important to be overlooked, especially at a time when there is much more of a drive to make history at school and university more global in its outlook. At Anglia Ruskin, where I am a lecturer, we have for some years now taught a course on the Tudor and Stuart period which gives students a good grounding both in familiar themes from English history and in Scottish and Irish history. Students learn about the flourishing of the Scottish renaissance looking at Stirling Castle as well as Hampton Court, and about the doleful impact of English rule on Ireland, from the rebellion of Silken Thomas against Henry VIII, the Ulster Plantations and the harsh Cromwellian settlement, to the arrival of William of Orange and his victory in 1690. It is not easy to fit everything in, but if history is to be of any use to those who study it, it ought to help them understand the nature of the country and society they live in. The Northern Ireland Brexit Protocol and the continuing saga of demands for Scottish independence remind us that these histories should not be of interest only to nerds: we all need to know them. Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. The Conversation Sean Lang is affiliated with the Historical Association. Into the West's proposals for a restored rail network in Ulster. (Photo: Into the West) The campaign group has outlined nine areas of concern regarding the strategys contents that it is asking people across the north-west to raise. The All-Island Strategic Rail Review is a joint north-south initiative to plan the development of rail across the island of Ireland over the next 30+ years. Following a public consultation last year the North-West of the island had by-far the highest number of submissions of any region on the island When a draft version of the strategys proposals was released in July of this year, Into The West were pleased to see that it recommended some of the improvements they have been campaigning on for years. But they were also concerned at some other inclusions and omissions including the recommendation that Derry should be the only city on the island not to have 200km/hr (120mph) rail services. Chair of Into The West, Steve Bradley, explains The All-Island Rail Strategy is a fantastic opportunity to ensure the north-west finally receives the infrastructure it needs to fulfil its potential. "Some of the recommendations within the Rail Strategy do indeed do that and are very welcome such as restoring rail between Derry and Portadown to give the north-west a direct rail route to Dublin, and also reintroducing rail to both Letterkenny and Limavady. "But unfortunately the strategy has also got some things badly wrong in its recommendations especially the idea that Derry should be the only city to not have 200km/hr trains. "The strategy also rejects a number of other proposals that were made for restoring rail, which is a major concern. Particularly its decision to leave Fermanagh as the only county on the entire island without rail, and to also leave all of Donegal except Letterkenny without trains too. "What should be a fantastic Strategy to deliver better rail right across the island for the next 30yrs has therefore turned out instead to be one that whilst making some welcome improvements falls short over all in fully addressing the limited provision and quality of rail in the north-west. Story continues "And it also fails to fulfill its own objective of delivering better regional balance - and instead reinforces the idea that the islands rail primarily exists to serve the needs of Belfast, Dublin and the Eastern Seaboard. With the public consultation on the draft Rail Strategy closing this Friday, Into The West have identified 9 issues of concern that theyre encouraging people to raise in their own submissions to the consultation : Derry should not be the only core city on the island left without 200km/hr rail services. Letterkenny and Derry should be linked together by direct rail services. And there should be a single rail route between the north-west and Dublin starting and ending at Letterkenny rather than separate services from Derry and Letterkenny (which would only reduce frequency for both). City of Derry Airport should be connected to the rail network, via a multi-purpose station. Serving not just the airport - but also villages like Eglinton and Greysteel, and providing a Park & Rail to reduce traffic congestion on the A2, Gransha Roundabout and Limavady Road. Foyle Port should be connected to the rail network, with a rail freight terminal located there. The Strategy recommends that all key cities on the island should have rail freight terminals, but fails to propose one for Derry (or anywhere in west Ulster). A spine of rail should be reintroduced through Donegal Connecting Derry and Letterkenny to Sligo via Ballybofey, Donegal Town, Ballyshannon and Bundoran. It is unacceptable that the draft Strategy leaves almost all of Donegal without rail. Fermanagh should not be left as the only county on the island without any rail. The Omagh-Enniskillen-Sligo rail route should be recommended. Rail should be restored to Cookstown via Dungannon. It should then continue north from Cookstown to Magherafelt before turning east to link with the Derry-Belfast line near Antrim - via a Park & Rail facility at Randalstown to reduce traffic on A6. The impact of tourism on the demand for rail has not been factored into the Strategy. This disadvantages popular visitor destinations like Donegal and Fermanagh, and means the Strategy has underestimated the viability of rail services there. By failing to propose a restoration of rail to Fermanagh and most of Donegal, the Strategy will ensure that a large gap in the map of rail services remains in the islands north-west. The email address to send submissions to the public consultation on the Draft Strategy is StrategicRailReview@arup.com with a deadline of 11.59pm on Friday, September 29. Steve Bradley concluded The All-Island Rail Strategy will determine the pipeline of rail improvements on this island for the next 30 years or more. "It is therefore essential that we ensure it makes the right recommendations for the needs of communities, visitors and businesses in Derry and the North-West. "The good news is that the Strategy is still only in draft form so there is an opportunity to challenge its recommendations and have them improved. "We would urge everyone who wants to see Derry and the north-west have the best possible infrastructure to take advantage of this opportunity. "Please make a submission to the Review before the deadline, and please include the nine points we have highlighted above in your contribution. Lets ensure that the final version of the Strategy really does recommend a rail revolution for our region. Benji Jones in Vox: With giant pincers and rough, spider-like legs, Caribbean king crabs dont look like your typical heroes. Yet these crustaceans may be key to solving one of the worlds most pressing environmental problems: the decline of coral reefs. In recent decades, warming seas, diseases, and other threats have wiped out half of the worlds corals and 90 percent of those in Florida. And this past summer, the problem accelerated. A devastating heat wave struck the Caribbean, pushing the reef in the Florida Keys the largest in the continental US closer to the brink of collapse. The decline of coral reefs is an enormous problem for wildlife and human communities. Reefs not only provide habitat for as much as a quarter of all marine life, including commercial fish, but they also help safeguard coastal communities during severe storms. Simply put, we need coral reefs. Coral reefs, meanwhile, need crabs. Lucky for them, help is on the way. Scientists are in the process of building a crab army hundreds of thousands of crustaceans strong that theyll unleash on Floridas reefs, giving this ailing ecosystem a tool to fight back. More here. HA NOI Foreign investment capital into Viet Nam continues its increasing trend, with US$20.21 billion in nine months, a year-on-year growth of 7.7 per cent. Disbursed capital also reached more than $15.9 billion, an increase of 2.2 per cent. Data from the Foreign Investment Agency (FIA) under the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) showed that the total newly-registered foreign investment capital, adjusted and contributed capital to buy shares, and buy contributed capital of foreign investors reached approximately $20.21 billion as of 20 September this year, up 7.7 per cent year-on-year. Of these, 2,254 new projects were granted investment registration certificates, with more than $10.23 billion, an increase of 66.3 per cent in the number of projects and 43.6 per cent in capital compared to the same period last year. Additionally, 934 projects registered to adjust investment capital, with a total additional capital of more than $5.15 billion, a growth of 21.5 per cent in number and a decrease of 37.3 per cent in capital compared to the same period last year. Furthermore, there were 2,539 capital contributions and share purchases, with a total capital contribution value of more than $4.82 billion, down 5.9 per cent in number and up 47 per cent in capital compared to the same period. The drastic solutions of the Government and the Prime Minister in the first months of the year have been effective in supporting and removing difficulties for businesses to disburse investment capital, said FIA. Moreover, adjusted investment capital continues to show improvement month by month compared to the first months of the year. The number of adjusted capital projects also maintained an increase over the same period, affirming investors' confidence in Viet Nam's investment environment and continuing to make decisions to expand existing projects. FIA data shows that foreign investors have invested in 18 industries out of 21 national economic sectors in the past nine months. Of these, the processing and manufacturing industry leads with a total investment capital of more than $14 billion, accounting for nearly 69.3 per cent of total registered investment capital and an increase of 15.5 per cent over the same period. Next is the real estate business, with a total investment capital of nearly $1.94 billion, accounting for more than 9.6 per cent of total registered investment capital, down 45 per cent over the same period. The finance-banking, wholesale, and retail industries ranked third and fourth with total registered capital reaching nearly $1.54 billion and nearly $734 million, respectively. Meanwhile, in terms of investment partners, Singapore still leads with a total investment capital of more than $3.98 billion, accounting for more than 19.7 per cent of total investment capital in Viet Nam. China ranked second with $2.92 billion, accounting for 14.5 per cent of total investment capital, followed by Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong (China), and Taiwan (China). Commenting on Viet Nam's situation of attracting foreign investment, the FIA said that new investment projects still focus on provinces and cities that have many advantages in attracting foreign investment such as Ha Noi, Hai Phong, HCM City, Bac Giang, and Binh Duong. These are all localities with good infrastructure, stable human resources, efforts to reform administrative procedures, and dynamism in investment promotion. Meanwhile, in terms of partners, investors come from Asia; traditional investment partners such as Singapore, China, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong (China), and Taiwan (China) still account for a large proportion. These six partners alone accounted for 78.8 per cent of the country's total investment capital in nine months. Numerous foreign firms eye stronger investment in Viet Nam Nearly 1,000 foreign enterprises from 28 countries and territories, including giants such as Boeing, Walmart, and Central Retail, have entered Viet Nam to explore investment opportunities and seek partners since the beginning of this month. According to Avaneesh Gupta, Senior Vice President of General Merchandise & Apparel Sourcing at Walmart the world's number one retailer Viet Nam is among the top five countries for exports of wood and agricultural products and ranks 10th globally for textiles and footwear exports. Notably, Vietnamese products are increasingly gaining popularity among consumers worldwide, Gupta said. As part of the 2024 supplemental sourcing strategy for the Walmart network, the firm has deployed procurement teams to Viet Nam to explore sourcing opportunities in the country. The product categories include seafood, cashew nuts, soy milk, coffee, fresh fruits, and fruit-based snacks, he said. Lionel Adenot, Director of Decathlon Viet Nam Group, mentioned that his company is expanding its textile product supply without volume limits. However, to become suppliers for the firm, Vietnamese businesses need to meet specific conditions. These include ensuring that factories do not use coal and have a roadmap to eliminate the use of fossil fuels by 2025, achieving self-sufficiency in raw material supply, favouring environmentally-friendly, on-site material usage, and implementing digital transformation in their production processes, he said. Decathlon Viet Nam Group will prioritise businesses that meet criteria related to responsibilities towards workers and the community, he added. Agriculture also represents an enticing industry for foreign investors. Central Retail Group has offered technical assistance and methodologies for cultivating organic honeydew melons to Danny Green Corporation, which has successfully established and currently operates a 120-ha organic honeydew melon farm in the south-central province of Binh Thuan. Insiders have said that foreign companies are willing to collaborate with Vietnamese businesses to standardise farming and production processes in order to improve the supply capacity of these businesses, thus stabilising the supply of goods for their supply chains. Besides seeking reliable supply sources, numerous businesses from the RoK, the US, and Europe are keen on directly investing in Viet Nam. Jean Jacques Bouflet, Vice-Chairman of the European Chamber of Commerce in Viet Nam (EuroCham), said that with its strategic geographical location, stable economy, young workforce, and favourable policies, Viet Nam is emerging as an increasingly important destination in the global supply chain. Since the signing of the EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) in 2019, European enterprises have invested in 2,250 projects worth $26 billion in Viet Nam. Additionally, the race for investment in Viet Nam has attracted numerous leading US corporations such as Apple, Qualcomm, Nike, Morgan Stanley, Intel, GE, ACORN International, General Dynamics, and Google. Recently, Boeing also explored opportunities to expand its investment in HCM City, especially in material supply facilities and establishing technical centres, the Sai Gon Giai Phong (Liberated Saigon) Newspaper reported. According to Maxime Dourdan, Director of Supply Chain Development for Boeing in Southeast Asia, Japan, and the RoK, compared to Japan and the RoK, Viet Nam holds a significant advantage when it comes to production costs. Furthermore, the capacity of the Vietnamese supporting industry has significantly improved in recent years, with many Vietnamese businesses becoming part of the global supply chains of large corporations like Samsung, Sanyo, Intel, and others. This serves as a foundation for Boeing to explore cooperation and expand its supply chain investments in Viet Nam, Dourdan said. To attract more sustainable investment inflows, there should be consistency in investment incentive policies to reassure investors about long-term business operations in the Southeast Asian nation, said Hong Sun, Chairman of the Korean Chamber of Business in Viet Nam. VNS HA NOI Viet Nam Technological and Commercial Joint Stock Bank (Techcombank) on Wednesday announced the opening of two new buildings in Ha Noi and HCM City that will serve as the banks headquarters. Located in the heart of Ha Noi and HCM Citys bustling business districts, the two world-class, energy efficient buildings are wholly owned and developed by Techcombank. The unveiling of its new headquarters comes as Techcombank celebrates its 30th anniversary year and confirms its position among the leading banks in Asia. The two buildings were designed by the world-renowned architectural firm, Foster + Partners, and are the first buildings designed by the firm to be opened in Viet Nam. Each building has a unique design that reflects the historic and cultural heritage of their city. Inside, open designs aim to bring people together to facilitate collaboration and innovation. Jens Lottner, CEO of Techcombank, said: Our headquarters are now in two world-class financial buildings in prime locations in Ha Noi and HCM City that all our employees can be proud of. The designs by Foster + Partners have created open and collaborative working environments that will encourage innovation and the sharing of ideas. Each building will help to empower our people so that they can better serve our customers, while also contributing to the sustainable development of Ha Noi and HCM City. The opening of the two new buildings was celebrated by immersive digital art exhibitions designed to showcase Viet Nams cultural heritage. At the Techcombank Tower in Ha Noi, a collection of digital artworks was displayed that represented the synergy of Heritage x Future that is embodied in the buildings design. At the Techcombank Tower Saigon, the exhibition connected Architecture Nature People in a way that expressed the citys dynamic and constant movement. The two exhibitions are the largest digital art installations to be shown in Viet Nam. Techcombanks new headquarters offer employees an excellent working environment comparable with modern buildings found in other global financial centres. Their design incorporates open workspaces and modern amenities that reflect the banks strong commitment to creating the best working conditions for its people. In 2022 and 2023, Techcombank became the first Vietnamese bank to run Overseas Talent Roadshows when it visited Singapore, the US, the UK and Australia to recruit Vietnamese-born talents to return to the country and join the bank. In September 2023, Techcombank also became the first and only Vietnamese bank to be named in the top 11 of "Best workplaces in Asia 2023" by the Great Place to Work (GPTW), a leading global organisation that assesses workplace culture. It is a testament to Techcombank's relentless efforts on its 30-year journey of development to invest in its people and create a working environment and culture that empower them to achieve their full potential. The opening of our two new state-of-the-art office buildings not only redefines our physical presence but also sets new standards for workplace innovation. With modern amenities, sustainable design, and a focus on fostering creativity and collaboration, the buildings reflect our dedication to excellence. Techcombank can now offer a working environment comparable to leading global organisations and this confirms our commitment to attracting and empowering the best talent, said Jens Lottner. VNS HCM CITY Cutting-edge technologies along with the latest advancements and innovation in the printing and packaging industry are on display at the 21st Vietnam International Printing and Packaging Industry Exhibition that opened in HCM City on Wednesday. The expo, VietnamPrintPack, has attracted 411 exhibitors from 17 countries and territories, including mainland China, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Slovakia, South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan (China), Thailand, UK, and the US. VietnamPrintPack serves as a platform for global suppliers and local manufacturers to engage in business exchanges and establish partnerships. The exhibition will host a series of seminars with speakers from influential industry associations providing participants with in-depth industry perspectives. Judy Wang, President of Yorkers Trade & Marketing Service Co Ltd, the expo organiser, said: With the growth of e-commerce and the expansion of the domestic market, companies are becoming increasingly aware of the need to impress customers with improved packaging and high-quality products. The printing and packaging industry is expected to increase by more than 13 per cent each year, indicating significant growth potential. Jointly organised by Yorkers and Vinexad National Trade Fair & Advertising JSC under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the exhibition, being held at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Centre, will run until September 30. VNS BINH DUONG Authorities in southern Binh Duong Province, in collaboration with the Vietnam Railways Corporation (VNR), conducted a ceremony on Wednesday to inaugurate an international multimodal train route for transporting goods from Song Than Station to China. This train convoy comprises 19 carriages carrying approximately 500 tonnes of tapioca starch. It commenced its journey from Song Than Station and is scheduled to reach its destination in Putian, Zhengzhou, located in China's Henan province, on October 5. This marks the first instance of the station participating in local export-import activities. Addressing the event, Nguyen Tran Hieu, Director of Binh Duong Provincial Customs Department, highlighted that Binh Duong has risen to the third position nationwide in terms of exports and imports, with about 40 per cent of these transactions being with China, primarily through waterways and partially by road. In the previous year, Song Than Station managed over 1.6 million tonnes of goods, including electronic equipment, automobiles, food, raw materials for production, and products manufactured for industrial zones in Binh Duong, ong Nai, and HCM City. ang Sy Manh, Chairman of the VNR's Board of Members, stated that during the 2025-30 period, Song Than Station is anticipated to handle 3.5 million tonnes per year, becoming a significant cargo hub within Viet Nam's railway system. Once the infrastructure for international multimodal transport is completed, the VNR will offer daily freight train services and provide comprehensive export and import cargo services for customers in Binh Duong and neighbouring provinces. VNS HUNG YEN Fourteen Japanese businesses have registered to invest US$732 million in northern Hung Yen Province's industrial parks. These firms were granted investment certificates by local authorities during a conference here on Wednesday, VTC News reported. The licensed projects included a $132 million plant producing LCD polarising films used for smartphones and cars. The plant, being financed by Nitto Viet Nam Co, has a designed capacity of 48 million products per year. A $45 million Cot Vietnam factory that manufactures electronic components for mobile phones and computers is expected to churn out 144.6 million units annually. Among others were an automotive parts manufacturing plant, capitalised at $50 million; a factory on producing mechanical and engineering equipments valued at $31 million and the construction of ready-built factories for rent, worth over $29.6 million. During the conference, Tran Quoc Van, Deputy Secretary of the provincial Party Committee cum chairman of the provincial People's Committee praised the long-term relationship between Viet Nam and Japan. Van said his province has signed cooperation agreements with Kanagawa provinces and Nikaho City of Japan since 2015. In his speech at the event, Van also briefed Hung Yen's geographic advantages such as locating in the centre of the Red River Delta, belonging to the northern key economic region, adjacent to the eastern gateway of Ha Noi and near Noi Bai International Airport and major seaports of the North. That has helped facilitate the provincial socio-economic development, especially industrial development. Currently, the province is home to seven industrial parks (IPs) under operation, covering more than 1,600ha. It is striving to have 17 operational IPs by 2024, 21 IPs by 2030 and 33 IPs by 2050. In 2022, the province's State budget revenue reached VN51.4 trillion. Its gross regional domestic product (GRDP) last year grew about 12.8 per cent. Over the past eight months of this year, the locality's GRDP growth was at 8.21 per cent. According to Van, the above-mentioned achievements were largely thanks to the contributions of the business community, especially Japanese firms. Japan is now the province's leading source of foreign investment, with 173 valid projects worth over $4 billion, accounting for 61 per cent of total foreign investment registered in the locality, he said. For his part, Nguyen Huu Nghia, Secretary of the provincial Party Committee, said that Hung Yen would always stand side by side and accompanying businesses. Provincial authorities and relevant departments and sectors were willing to create favourable conditions and the most active support for investors when investing and doing business in Hung Yen, Nghia said, adding that the province considered the success of businesses as its success. In the future, Hung Yen would make every effort to improve the province's investment environment, implement many transportation infrastructure projects and build essential infrastructure facilities of IPs. Nghia added that the province would also focus on training highly skilled human resources, and developing urban areas and tourism services while promptly removing difficulties and guiding administrative procedures for businesses, especially Japanese ones. VNS HA NOI National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines on September 28 announced that it plans to launch a direct route between the central coastal city of a Nang and Thailands Bangkok in November. This move materialises the outcomes of talks between Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his Thai counterpart Srettha Thavisin on the sidelines of the recent high-level week of the 78th United Nations General Assembly in New York, where the latter proposed the opening of additional flight routes between the two countries. According to ao Truong Luu, head of Vietnam Airlines representative office in Thailand, the opening of the new route aims to realise the desires of the two nations leaders. This is also a practical action by the carrier to mark the 10th anniversary of the Viet Nam-Thailand strategic partnership. Luu unveiled that Vietnam Airlines is actively coordinating with relevant authorities to launch the route linking the a Nang international airport to Bangkok-based Don Mueang international airport in early November. The airline now operates six daily direct flights connecting the capital city of Ha Noi and HCM City with Bangkok via the Suvarnabhumi International Airport. The a Nang-Bangkok route is expected to better meet the diverse needs of passengers and contribute to the development of cultural, economic, political, and social exchanges between the two countries. VNS Oracle JDK 21 LTS Release: More Features from Loom, Panama, and Generational ZGC Java 21 has arrived, and with it the latest implementation of Oracle's Java Development Kit (JDK). Oracle JDK 21 is a long-term support release (LTS) focused on serious performance improvements, stability enhancements, and security upgrades. As an LTS release, JDK 21 will receive eight years of support from Oracle. The company also announced that it will provide support for Java 11 through "at least" January 2032. The eight-year extension was a response to "customer feedback in the Java ecosystem," said Sharat Chander, Director of Java SE Product Management at Oracle, in a blog post. This release implements capabilities from four ongoing OpenJDK efforts, including Project Amber (String Templates, Record Patterns, Pattern Matching for Switch, Unnamed Patterns and Variables, and Unnamed Classes and Instance Main Methods); Project Panama (Foreign Function & Memory API and Vector API); Project Loom (Virtual Threads, Scoped Values, and Structured Concurrency); and Generational ZGC (improved app performance by extending Z Garbage Collection). The release also comes with maintenance and deprecation features (Deprecate the 32-bit x86 Port for Removal, and Prepare to Disallow the Dynamic Loading of Agents). This is the 12th Feature Release delivered through the six-month release cadence proposed by Mark Reinhold, chief architect of Oracles Java Platform Group, back in 2017. " This level of predictability allows developers to easily manage their adoption of innovation thanks to a steady stream of expected improvements," Chander noted in his post. Oracle announced the release at the Oracle Cloud World conference in Las Vegas. "Java continues to be the language and platform of choice for the development of robust, scalable, and secure applications used by organizations and millions of individuals around the world," said Georges Saab, senior vice president of Oracle Java Platform and chair of the OpenJDK governing board, in a statement. "The new enhancements in Java 21 enable developers to build better applications even faster than before. In addition, commercial support will be available for at least eight years to enable customers to migrate at their own pace." In virtually all of its announcements, blog posts, and press releases, Oracle calls Java "the worlds number one programming language and development platform." And there's a reason for that, according to Stephen OGrady, principal analyst and co-founder of the developer-focused analyst firm RedMonk. "Despite so many languages that are in circulation, Java is still everywhere today," O'Grady said in a statement. "As the world evolves, Javas ability to adapt will help it continue to play a key role in offering value to developers." This release implements 15 JEPs (JDK Enhancement Proposals), which, as most ADTmag readers know, are similar to JSRs (Java Specification Requests), the formal spec requests of the Java Community Process (JSR). JEPs allow OpenJDK committers contributing to the free and open-source implementation of the Java Platform, Standard Edition (Java SE), to work more informally. As Oracle puts it, "The Java 21 release is the result of extensive collaboration between Oracle engineers and other members of the worldwide Java developer community via OpenJDK and the Java Community Process." The following is available on Oracle's website, but I'm listing what I consider to be the most significant JEPs in this release here for our readers' convenience: Project Loom Features JEP 444: Virtual Threads: Significantly streamlines the process of writing, maintaining, and observing high-throughput, concurrent applications by introducing lightweight virtual threads to the Java Platform. By enabling developers to easily troubleshoot, debug, and profile concurrent applications and scale them with existing JDK tools and techniques, virtual threads help accelerate application development. JEP 446: Scoped Values (Preview): Enables the sharing of immutable data within and across threads. This helps increase the ease-of-use, comprehensibility, robustness, and performance of developers projects. JEP 453: Structured Concurrency (Preview): Simplifies concurrent programming by introducing an API for structured concurrency, which helps promote a style of concurrent programming that can eliminate common risks arising from cancellation and shutdown such as thread leaks and cancellation delays and improves the observability of concurrent code. This helps developers streamline error handling and cancellation, improve reliability, and enhance observability. Performance Updates JEP 439: Generational ZGC: Improves application performance by extending the Z Garbage Collector (ZGC) to maintain separate generations for young and old objects. Generational ZGC helps improve developer productivity by lowering the overhead of required heap memory and garbage collection CPU for applications, as well as reducing the risks of allocation stalls. Language Updates and Improvements JEP 430: String Templates (Preview): Simplifies the development of Java programs by making it easy to express strings that include values computed at run time, and improves the security of programs that compose strings from user-provided values and pass them to other systems. In addition, the readability of expressions that mix text and expressions is enhanced, and non-string values computed from literal text and embedded expressions can be created without having to transit through an intermediate string representation. This helps increase developer productivity by making the Java language more readable, writable, and maintainable. JEP 440: Record Patterns (Third Preview): Enhances the Java language by extending pattern matching to de-structure instances of record classes, as well as enabling the addition of nested patterns. This enables developers to extend pattern matching to more sophisticated and composable data queries, which helps increase productivity. JEP 441: Pattern Matching for Switch: Expands the expressiveness and applicability of switch expressions and statements by allowing patterns to appear in case labels. In addition, the safety of switch statements is increased by requiring that pattern switch statements cover all possible input values, and all existing switch expressions and statements can continue to be compiled with no changes and executed with identical semantics. This helps developers streamline and increase the reliability of their projects by making the Java language more semantic so that complex data-oriented queries can be expressed concisely and safely. JEP 443: Unnamed Patterns and Variables (Preview): Enhances the Java language by enabling unnamed patterns to match a record component without stating the component's name or type, as well as unnamed variables that can be initialized but not used. This helps simplify the development process by increasing the readability of record patterns and improving the maintainability of all code. JEP 445: Unnamed Classes and Instance Main Methods (Preview): Helps simplify and improve the accessibility of the Java language so that educators can introduce programming concepts in a gradual manner. By avoiding the introduction of a separate beginners dialect of Java and a separate beginners toolchain, student programs can be compiled and run with the same tools that compile and run any Java programhelping students write basic programs in a concise manner and grow their code gracefully as their skills increase. This helps improve student developer productivity by enabling them to write their first programs without needing to understand language features designed for large programs. Project Panama Preview Features JEP 442: Foreign Function & Memory API (Third Preview): Introduces an API to enable Java programs to interoperate with code and data outside of the Java runtime. By efficiently invoking foreign functions (i.e., code outside the Java Virtual Machine [JVM]), and by safely accessing foreign memory (i.e., memory not managed by the JVM), the new API enables Java programs to call native libraries and process native data without requiring the Java Native Interface. This increases ease-of-use, flexibility, performance, and safety for developers. JEP 448: Vector API (Sixth Incubator): Introduces an API to express vector computations that reliably compile at runtime to vector instructions on supported CPU architectures. This helps developers improve the performance of their projects by providing them with access to an API that is capable of clearly and concisely expressing a wide range of vector computations. In addition to the new enhancements, Java 21 is supported by Java Management Service (JMS), an Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) native service, which was created to provide a unified console and dashboard to help organizations manage Java runtimes and applications on-premises or on any cloud. And it's also worth noting that Oracle is extending. Dev.java, it's official site for Java developers, to include the Java Playground, an online sandbox designed to allows users to type and run small Java code snippets without the need for a local runtime or IDE. Developers can try out new features from Java 21 on the Playground immediately, the company said, all from a browser powered by Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI). HA NOI For several years, the expansion of forest coverage has allowed Viet Nam's forestry sector to meet its emission reduction commitments, presenting substantial potential for involvement in both domestic and global carbon markets, noted Tran Quang Bao, the director of the Viet Nam Department of Forest (DoF). At a national event in Ha Noi on September 27, co-hosted by DoF and Emergent, the LEAF Coalition's co-ordinator, Bao emphasised that Viet Nam has demonstrated a robust commitment to the global effort against climate change. Specific measures include signing the Paris Agreement on Climate Change in 2015, pledging to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, and engaging in numerous climate initiatives such as REDD, the Declaration on Forests and Land Use, and the Leadership Partnership on Forests and Climate. Regarding its pledge to curtail emissions as part of its nationally determined contribution (NDC), Viet Nam is targeting a reduction of emissions by 15.8 per cent (equivalent to 146 million tonnes of CO2) through domestic resources. Additionally, it seeks a 43.5 per cent cut (corresponding to 403 million tonnes of CO2) with the aid of international support by 2030, Bao added. Accordingly, the Vietnamese Government has assigned ministries to implement the emission reduction target by 2030, of which the agriculture and rural development sector is 129.8 million tonnes of CO2, Bao said. On that basis, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has assigned the forestry and land use sector to reduce a minimum of 39.31 and 79.1 million tonnes of CO2 by 2025 and 2030, respectively. In Viet Nam, according to the provisions of the Forestry Law, forest carbon absorption and storage services are a type of forest environmental service. This is a new type of service with much potential and opportunities for Viet Nam to mobilise additional financial resources for the forestry sector, invest directly in forests, attract rural workers, create jobs, increase income, and improve livelihoods for forest owners and rural people. It also contributes to protecting existing forest areas, improving quality, and enhancing the protective function and ecological value of forests. At COP26 in Glasgow, Emergent and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Viet Nam (MARD) signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) under which they agreed to initiate negotiations for an emission reduction purchase agreement (ERPA) for Viet Nam to supply jurisdictional REDD+ credits to the LEAF Coalition. Accordingly, Viet Nam aims to sell 5.15 million tonnes of CO2e to the LEAF Coalition at a guaranteed floor price of US$10 per tonne of CO2e between 2022-2026. Such emission reductions are expected to be generated from 4.26 million ha of forest, including 3.24 million ha of natural forest and 1.02 million ha of plantation forest, in the Central Highlands and the Southern Central Coast regions. The objective of the LEAF information-sharing event is to share information about LEAF with ethnic minorities, local communities, development partners, and other key stakeholders in jurisdictions, such as Viet Nam, which are preparing to negotiate and sign Emissions Reduction Purchase Agreements (ERPAs). Information-sharing events are an opportunity for key stakeholders in credit-generating programmes to ask questions and provide feedback. More than 100 participants, comprising representatives of ethnic minorities and local communities at the national and provincial levels, attended the LEAF information-sharing event. The LEAF Coalition brings together forest nations, companies, and donor governments to facilitate transactions of high-integrity jurisdictional forest carbon credits, issued by the independent Architecture for REDD+ Transactions (ART) programme under the REDD+ Environmental Excellence Standard (TREES standard). VNS HA NOI Young Hungarian duo, Sara Bolyki and Petra Varallyay, will perform in Ha Noi on October 4. The concert is held by the Embassy of Hungary in Ha Noi, aiming to introduce a Hungarian folk jazz fusion concert to local audiences. Having played together for ten years in various artistic projects and musical environments, Bolyki and Varallyay formed their extraordinary world-music duo in 2019. Their repertoire consists of ethno-jazz arrangements as well as folk-inspired original compositions. Bolyki is both a jazz vocalist and a folk musician; therefore, liberty and joy of improvisations are just as much present in her singing as the devotion to sincere authenticity. She is a second-generation a cappellist, daughter of the oldest member of Bolyki Brothers, which is the most famous a cappella production of Hungary. She has been with the group since 2015, and her guest performance helped Jazzation win the grand prix and the audience prize at the Leipzig International A cappella Competition. After that, she officially took the stage as a member of the group, right in front of an audience of 25,000 at the Taichung Jazz Festival in Taiwan. She graduated from the folk singing faculty of Liszt Ferenc Music in 2019. Besides her responsibilities in Jazzation, she teaches at a music school and is regularly invited as a soloist with Hungarian and Balkan folk music formations. Varallyay achieved her first great success as a classical violinist, but later her interest increasingly led to improvisational fusion music and composition. She studied jazz piano and jazz music at Bartok Konzi, then jazz composition and classical violin at the Academy of Music. With her characteristic playing, she is as present in the cult concert venues of the underground music scene as she is on the stage of the most prestigious concert halls. In addition to her own trio, she is a regular composer for the Jazzation acappella formation, having worked with Bobby McFerrin, Uri Caine, and Yo-Yo Ma, performing at numerous domestic and foreign festivals, touring a wide range of genres. In recognition of her musical work, she received the Orszaczky Prize in 2016, the Junior Artisjus Prize in 2017, the Junior Prima Prize in 2020, and the Creative Art Prize in the piano improvisation competition founded by Gyorgy Vukan in 2021. In an hour-long concert at Ha Noi's Culture and Arts Centre at 22 Hang Buom Street, Hoan Kiem District, the duo will perform 13 pieces, including Hungarian folk and their compositions with a jazz style. The artists will host a master class at the Viet Nam National Academy of Music on October 3 and perform at the Viet Nam National University in Ha Noi on October 4 within the framework of the Higher Education Seminar on the 10-year Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme in Viet Nam. VNS HA NOI Vietnamese writer Vinh Quyen has won the Southeast Asian (SEA) Write Award for his novel Inside Infinity. The main character is a Vietnamese young man who has lived in America for several years collecting documents to write his masters thesis "The Country of ai Nam - A Great Power of East Asia." His academic articles also surprise those who are used to thinking of Vietnam as a weak country: the writings confirm an analysis made by the World Bank, that the Vietnam of 1820 was a nation with an average personal income approaching the world average, becoming one of the five largest economies in East Asia, a feat that until now, nearly two centuries later, Vietnamese people have yet to replicate. Then one day he suddenly learns he has a father living alone in Hue, who has fallen into a coma. The young man goes to be with his father, who passes away just ten days later. During this time, the father wakes briefly one final moment; he looks at his son and holds his hand, their first and also their last connection. But that is enough. The young man feels he is now complete. Those ten days in the deserted villa, exploring shelves of ancient books, "conversing" with his father, a PhD of Ethnology, via scattered notes found in a laptop, the son spends searching for his roots... Each character's journey of mending fractures to connect the infinite past of the clan and of the Vietnamese people is the theme of the novel. Inside Infinity assembles together various texts of various genres (notes, diary, short story, drama). While their common mission is to serve the narrative, nearly all of them stand independently. When readers encounter a text, they will become completely engrossed in it, at times even forgetting the novel itself. They will then realise that all these texts are in fact connected, and at the same time realise the value in reading them," commented American writer Zac Herman. Prior to the SEA Write Award, Inside Infinity won the second prize in the Novel Competition 2016-19 of the Viet Nam Writers Association. "Thai Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, on behalf of her father, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, awarded The SEA Write Award to me. It is an honour for writers in Southeast Asia," Quyen told Viet Nam News. "I believe the venerable founders of this award are not just about stimulating the specific achievements in literary creation but promoting mutual interest and understanding among the countries in the area because literature is an excellent means of cultural exchange. This award has contributed to changing the reality that has existed for centuries that people in Southeast Asia are experts in the history, culture, and news of the Western countries rather than those of their nearest neighbouring countries. "Therefore, I kindly expect all the works that have been granted with this award would be gathered in a Southeast Asia Literary Bookcase by the founders and would be translated into English, published, and introduced to the readers in and out of the region." Quyen, a member of the Viet Nam Writers Association and former head of the Lao ong newspaper representative office in Central and Central Highlands, Viet Nam, has authored 20 books in Vietnamese and three novels in English: Debris of Debris, Inside Infinity, and Heart for Forest. His novel set in post-war Viet Nam, Debris of Debris, was published in the US in 2009 and in the United Kingdom in 2014. It won the second prize in the Novel Competition of 2011-15 organised by the Viet Nam Writers Association and is archived at the Library of Congress in the US. The SEA Write Award, also known as the Southeast Asian Writers Award, is an annual literary prize that recognises outstanding works of literature by Southeast Asian writers. It was established in 1979 by the Thai royal family in honour of King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand, who was an accomplished writer himself. Due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the awards for three consecutive years (2019, 2020, and 2021) were presented together this year. Alongside Quyen, Viet Nam had two authors honoured in 2019 and 2020 poet Tran Quang ao and writer Vo Khac Nghiem. VNS by Nguyen Viet Dung HCM CITY Every evening on HCM Citys Nam Ki Khoi Nghia Street, near the iconic Independence Palace, the Ben Nghe Street Food Market comes to life, becoming a vibrant, unmissable place to anyone passing by. And for expats either living or visiting, this is a must-see, and must-eat, destination. The food market in District 1 has over 30 stalls selling a wide variety of dishes and drinks, with a some stalls operated by expats in the city. I was overwhelmed by the wide variety of culinary delights available, with familiar local dishes such as pho, banh xeo, com tam, as well as exotic international cuisine from India, Greek and Mexico. All the stalls proudly display their finest and most mouth-watering dishes, from tasty looking Indian samosa, to grilled pork ribs that glisten under the light, and pan-fried beef that bursts into a tower of flames when a skilled chef sets it alight. It may take you a while to decided what to have for dinner. Walking and browsing the stalls is almost as fun as eating. I say almost, because the food is what we are all here for. With around 3,500 visitors everyday, Ben Nghe Street Food Market is adored by many local and foreign diners looking for a cool place to hang out with friends and families. Le Quoc Hung, a media representative of the food market, told Viet Nam News that the place used to be Ben Thanh Street Food Market (near Ben Thanh Market), which was opened in 2015. In March this year it relocated to its new location, changing its name to Ben Nghe Street Food Market. The stalls here do their best to bring the most authentic tasty dishes, so Indian dishes are actually made by Indian cooks, Greek dishes are made by Greeks, etc., to preserve the unique taste of the food, Hung said. Le Quyet Chien opened his Pho Viet Star stall over at the Ben Thanh site eight years ago. Here they sell many pho dishes, such as stir-fried pho, pho roll, and obviously traditional pho noodle soup, with plenty of toppings available. The atmosphere here is really lively and fun, plenty of foreign customers visit our stall, he said. The location here is convenient for business. Its the city centre, we are near the Independence Palace and the Ben Thanh market, so this place attracts plenty of tourists. Business is also great for Hansram Bhatts stall, which sells northern Indian dishes. For over seven years his Sher e Punjab stall has been serving chicken, mutton, fish, egg biriyani, among other Indian delights. All the stalls here offer something unique, and there is minimal overlap between them. Every stall is someones favourite. The market opens from 9am to midnight. There are also live music performance every Tuesday and Saturday, from 7pm to 9pm, further adding to the places already lively and exciting nightlife. A great destination for tourists Le Quoc Hung said: Ben Nghe Street Food Market is very lucky to be known and loved by many local and foreign diners. Many international friends visited our place and recommended it on travel social media, as a destination that you should not miss in HCM City. In fact, there are plenty of diners here who are tourists visiting Viet Nam for the first time. Sarah Broad, a Australian tourist, told Viet Nam News that her family wanted to visit a place where they can try many types of food, especially Vietnamese food which she loves, but also have some options for the kids. She enjoys the food market for the indoor seating, fun vibe, and the pretty decoration like colourful walls and lightings. Broad said: I think the variety of food here is really good, we can have Vietnamese food as well as more Western options such as pizza, burgers, and also Mexican, etc. Its just good for the family. Pieter Depoortere, a Belgian tourist, also paid a visit to the food market with his girlfriend during his first ever trip to HCM City, after being recommended by his guide. Similar to Broad, his hotel is also near the food market. You have a lot of choices here, you can pick whatever you want," he said. "For me its difficult, because I have too many choices! While the prices here are higher than that from other local food markets around the city, the service quality makes up for it. The seating areas are clean, thanks to staff members quickly taking care of left behind trays and rubbish, and since it is indoor, diners can still have a good time despite the frequent downpour during HCM Citys rainy season. And of course, the vibrant atmosphere and tasty dishes make for a wonderful experience for anyone looking to spend an evening with their loved ones. VNS "Luong Chan Quang, Deputy Head of the Disease Control and Prevention Ward at the Pasteur Institute in Ho Chi Minh City, spoke to the Vietnam News Agency about monkeypox prevention and control in Viet Nam. What is the current monkeypox situation in the southern region? Viet Nam has recently recorded two cases of monkeypox in ong Nai and Binh Duong provinces. Both cases were discovered and tested on the weekend. As soon as a suspected monkeypox patient from ong Nai Province went to the Ho Chi Minh City Dermatology Hospital for examination last Friday afternoon, the hospital conducted an investigation, consulted with experts, and collected samples to send to the Pasteur Institute in Ho Chi Minh City. The results were obtained the following morning. In the second case, the Binh Duong Centre for Disease Control conducted tests and sent samples to the Pasteur Institute last Saturday evening, with test results received the following morning. Investigations involving the patients and individuals connected to them were initiated immediately upon receiving the information, without waiting for test results. How has the rapid response to Monkeypox been implemented? The Pasteur Institute in Ho Chi Minh City, responsible for direction and monitoring, has been collating cases and disseminating information to provinces and cities. This helps in promptly identifying risks and establishing initial contact with the patients' close contacts for a swift response to the disease. Currently, local authorities continue to expand investigations into individuals who had contact with the two Monkeypox patients to determine the source of infection and promptly identify any new cases, if they arise. Preliminary information suggests that both patients contracted the illness at their place of residence and had no recent contact with foreigners or recent international travel. In the context of globalisation, where travel and trade between countries are common, the risk of diseases entering any country is a real possibility. Therefore, to prevent the widespread transmission of diseases in the community, it is essential for everyone to raise awareness and follow the instructions provided by the healthcare sector. This applies not only to monkeypox but also to other infectious diseases. What are your recommendations for people to proactively prevent monkeypox? Monkeypox is primarily transmitted from person to person when the first symptoms appear. The disease is mainly spread through direct contact, including sexual intercourse, as well as through large respiratory droplets. Patients and individuals experiencing symptoms such as fever and acute pustular rashes on their genitals, palms, legs, body, and face should immediately seek medical attention for timely monitoring and guidance. They should also self-quarantine and refrain from sexual intercourse. It is advisable for people to avoid close contact with monkeypox patients and to refrain from direct contact with their wounds, body fluids, respiratory droplets, and personal items. If someone has the disease or is suspected of having it in their residence or workplace, it is essential to notify the local health authorities for prompt guidance and treatment. People, including patients, should regularly practice personal preventive measures, such as covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, preferably with a cloth, handkerchief, or disposable tissue, to reduce the spread of respiratory secretions. They should also wash their hands with soap and clean water or use an antiseptic solution immediately after coughing or sneezing. Residents should ensure food safety, maintain a healthy lifestyle, increase physical activity to improve their health, and refrain from spitting in public places. VNS HA NOI Politburo member and National Assembly Chairman Vuong inh Hue on Wednesday met Politburo member and President of the National Assembly of People's Power of Cuba, Esteban Lazo Hernandez, who is on an official visit to Viet Nam and attended the 50th Anniversary of Leader Fidel Castro's visit to the Liberation Zone of Quang Tri Province (September 1973 - September 2023). Chairman Hue expressed his enduring appreciation for his visit to Cuba in April 2023, particularly highlighting the warm, respectful, cordial, and thoughtful reception extended by the Party and State of Cuba to the Vietnamese delegation. He reminisced about his participation in the Special Plenary Session of the 10th Cuban National Assembly, during which he was accompanied by Esteban Lazo Hernandez across Cuba. Cuban NA President Hernandez, conveyed his joy at returning to Viet Nam and reuniting with the Vietnamese NA Chairman. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Chairman Hue for welcoming the delegation immediately upon their return from a lengthy overseas mission. Hernandez emphasised the significance of NA Chairman Hue's official visit to Cuba, which contributes to strengthening the traditional relations between the national assemblies of both countries and between their respective parties and peoples. The visit has also facilitated economic, trade, and investment cooperation. Both NA leaders highly commended the continuous exchange of high-level delegations between the two countries, particularly between their national assemblies. Following NA Chairman Hue's official visit to Cuba, many agreements between ministries, branches, and businesses of both nations are being actively implemented. To further enhance the cooperative ties between the two national assemblies in the future, both sides pledged to promote high-level delegation exchanges at all levels, especially between friendly parliamentary groups and agencies of the national assemblies. They also agreed to organise a meeting between the Inter-Parliamentary Committees of the two countries in 2024. Hernandez expressed his gratitude to Chairman Hue for inviting the Cuban National Assembly to send a delegation of young parliamentarians to attend the 9th Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians in Ha Noi. On behalf of the Party, State, and People of Cuba, the President of the Cuban NA thanked Viet Nam for its support over the years and for advocating the Cuban NA's observer status in the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly. NA Chairman Hue rejoiced in the continued strengthening and robust development of the exemplary, faithful, and fraternal relationship between Viet Nam and Cuba. He affirmed Viet Nam's unwavering commitment to fortifying the special traditional solidarity, friendship, and cooperation between the two countries. In the context of a rapidly evolving, complex, and unpredictable international landscape, Viet Nam attaches great importance to its relations with traditional friends, including Cuba, and remains steadfast in its foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation, and development, Hue said. He also proposed that both sides enhance their coordination in multilateral international forums such as the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and other multilateral parliamentary organisations and support each other's positions on regional and international issues of common concern. Both NA leaders agreed on the necessity for the two countries to bolster their economic, trade, and investment cooperation. NA President Esteban Lazo Hernandez underscored Cuba's view that strengthening economic, trade, and investment relations with Viet Nam is of strategic importance and expressed gratitude for the presence of Vietnamese businesses in Cuba. Vietnamese companies are currently the leading investors from Asia in Cuba. The Economic Committee of the Cuban NA also looks forward to welcoming a delegation from the Economic Committee of the Vietnamese NA to visit and exchange operational experiences, he said. During the meeting, the Vietnamese NA Chairman reaffirmed Viet Nam's commitment to supporting Cuba in ensuring food security. He suggested that both countries identify key areas of cooperation, encouraging collaboration, joint ventures, and investments based on the needs, conditions, and capacities of each nation. He also requested that Cuba address any obstacles and difficulties, creating favourable conditions for Vietnamese businesses to invest confidently in Cuba. VNS HA NOI Viet Nam has made efforts in its legislation framework for illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in a very positive way. What is more important is proper implementation and enforcement of the legislative framework in provinces and among fishermen, said Julien Guerrier, the European Union (EU) Ambassador to Viet Nam. During the first press briefing since taking office this week, the newly-appointed ambassador said the European Commission (EC)s yellow card against Viet Nams seafood products for IUU fishing is an important topic that has been discussed for several years between the EU and Viet Nam. The EC inspectors will make a visit to Viet Nam in October to check the situation, he said. During the press conference, he shared with the media about priority areas of cooperation between the EU and Viet Nam. He said: The EU is the long-time trusted friend and partner of Viet Nam. We are in a unique position to bring our special added values for the realisation of Viet Nams ambition to be an advanced economy by 2045 and a net zero emitter by 2050. The Indo Pacific region is increasingly central to the world. The EU has developed an Indo Pacific strategy to engage more in this region and Viet Nam has a particular economic, demographic, geopolitical weight in the region, therefore it is for us a key partner in the region. What I want to do here in the next few years is to continue and support more Viet Nams ambition to be an advanced economy in 2045 and a net-zero emitter by 2050, he said. He said the EU not only has the ambition to support Viet Nam but also has concrete instruments to help Viet Nam achieve the ambition. The first instrument he mentioned is the EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement which has been extremely effective so far to help increase the bilateral trade flow. He cited 32 per cent of trade flow increase between the EU and Viet Nam last year as an example of fruitful economic cooperation. Viet Nams exports to the EU were four times higher than EU exports to Viet Nam, he said. The second instrument is infrastructure. On the path to accompany Viet Nams economic growth, the EU will support Viet Nam in infrastructure in transport, energy, health, education and digital transformation. The EU has a 300 billion EUR fund in infrastructure called Global gateway strategy for Viet Nam and the rest of the world in building infrastructure in a financially sustainable, socially sustainable, environmentally sustainable way, the ambassador said. He said the EU will also support Viet Nam to transition from coal to renewable energy during the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), which he called the third instrument. "We have invested US$15.5 billion in Viet Nam to support this green transition", he said. The EU also has Horizon Europe funding programme with over $100 billion for research and innovation which is open to the world and for the participation of Vietnamese research institutes. Viet Nam has excellent researchers, innovators and I want to encourage them to participate in Horizon Europe and exchange, share knowledge, skills and technologies, he told the press about the fourth instrument. The last instrument is security and defence cooperation. Within the Enhancing Security Cooperation In and With Asia (ESIWA) programme, the EU will help Viet Nam enhance capacity in maritime security, cyber security and other fields. People-to-people exchange Ambassador Julien Guerrier said during his meeting with State President Vo Van Thuong on Tuesday to present his credentials, the two discussed common objectives and how to bring into full play these five instruments. The ambassador expressed his impression over the beautiful motto of Viet Nam: Independence, Freedom and Happiness. I think this encompasses the joint aspiration of the EU and Vietnamese people. The partnership can help us achieve goals, objectives that are mentioned in the beautiful motto, he said. He said the EU wants to have more people to people exchange between Europe and Viet Nam. We want to encourage Vietnamese students to visit and study in Europe. Many Vietnamese students and graduates have chosen Europe for their study over the past years. "The EU offers the Erasmus Mundus, the largest master's and doctoral scholarship programme in Europe, and many young Vietnamese have received these scholarships," he said, adding that the "Study in Europe" event, scheduled for October 1 in HCM City and October 7 in Ha Noi, will provide valuable information about life and education in Europe. VNS HA NOI Viet Nam will strive to have 100 per cent of vehicles using electronic toll collection accounts by 2025, helping reduce social costs and make it easier for vehicle owners and businesses, according to the Ministry of Transport (MoT). The proposal is part of a plan recently approved by the Transport Ministry to strengthen the application of information technology and digital transformation in the road system in 2023-25 with a vision to 2030. Under the scheme, the application of information technology and promotion of digital transformation in the field of road networks will place the people and businesses at the centre, helping improve the efficiency of the countrys road system to maintain and develop a modern and sustainable road system. In addition, the plan aims to strictly manage transport activities, vehicle training, auto testing or grant of driving licences to ensure traffic safety and environmental protection. The plan has set a target of having 100 per cent of eligible administrative procedures being processed online. During this period, the target of 100 per cent of road infrastructure data managed by the central Government, will be collected and updated into the database in order to monitor, make statistics and planning, as well as an investment plan. The scheme also focuses on building and completing information technology systems to manage transportation activities and automatically gathering violations of transport businesses, vehicles or drivers in order to help authorised agencies to inspect and examine or give penalties for those who violate regulations. Besides, the scheme will also develop and complete an information technology system for driving test centres to improve the quality of training, auto testing, or granting of drivers licences with a view to fighting wrongdoings or negative behaviours of traffic inspectors. To cope with widespread violations at auto inspection centres, the plan will also have an automatic vehicle detection system to conduct penalties to protect transport infrastructure while ensuring traffic safety and preventing corruption and negative behaviours. The scheme has outlined 28 tasks and solutions to be implemented from now until 2030 involving building and completing shared technical systems, providing online public services or conducting vehicle training and developing human resources. According to the Viet Nam Road Administration, it has worked with relevant bodies to implement key tasks of the plan to put the information technology systems into operation soon so as to enhance the efficient management of the countrys road transport. VNS QUANG TRI Major Tran Minh Vu, a military doctor at A Vao border post, Border Guard Command of Quang Tri Province, is happy to see so many children born safely at the remote mountainous military clinic. Doctor Vu, who has nearly 30 years of medical experience, has travelled across the country before arriving at this bordering village to work at the Pa Linh military clinic. The clinic is located independently at the edge of the forest with only Vu on duty. People often joke that he is the richest person in the border post because he owns the "private hospital" in Pa Ling village. For the Pa Ko ethnic minority, this clinic is like a "general hospital", Quan oi Nhan Dan (Peoples Army) newspaper reported. Patients are examined and treated by doctor Vu. Only severe cases have to be transferred to higher-level facilities. Until now, Pa Ling village in A Vao Commune, akrong District, remains one of the most difficult and remote place in Quang Tri province. It's not just remote in terms of distance, but also due to the difficulties that people must overcome to reach it. During the dry season, the road is dusty and filled with countless potholes, while during the rainy season, it becomes muddy and flooded, turning it into an isolated island. Major Nguyen Van Chinh, deputy head of A Vao border post, said after the historic flood in October 2020, for several months, soldiers had to transport supplies across landslide areas. The local residents faced the same challenges when receiving relief goods. In May 2023, the concrete road from the centre of A Vao Commune to Pa Ling village was opened, but everyone knew that it would likely suffer landslides due to the relentless forest rains. The lives of rural people has been improving, but backward customs are not easily changed. A custom of the Pa Ko requires that pregnant women must leave their home and give birth by herself in a makeshift tent without any help. Pa Ko people believe that a woman who gives birth at home will bring bad luck to the community. Communication efforts and actual medical treatments have helped the local residents realise that when they are ill, they should seek a doctor rather than a shaman. "Women are now allowed to give birth at the clinic after a long time of encouraging them to wipe out the custom," Vu said. "Now, they receive postnatal care and guidance on how to properly care for their babies." Doctor Vu recalled an unforgettable a case that Ho Thi Lo, a pregnant woman went into labour at 1am during heavy rainfall. "The husband of the pregnant woman urgently knocked on my door," he recalled. "I quickly got up because I knew there was a patient, and it might be an emergency." "I hurriedly took my medical bag, a flashlight and put on my raincoat and rushed into the rainy night to assist his wife in delivering the baby safely." "A baby girl was born safely much to the happiness of her parents and myself." Lo is not the first expectant mother in Pa Ling whom doctor Vu has assisted. He said that helping in childbirth is not difficult, but what he fears most is complications like postpartum haemorrhage, obstructed labour, or breech birth when the clinic lacks the necessary equipment. While there is no shortage of medications for postpartum haemorrhage, proper storage requires a freezer, which is not available. It's not that the people are unaware of the dangers of childbirth complications, and it's not because of outdated thinking. But the main thing is that they are poor. To answer the question of why people don't go to the akrong District Health Centre, Vu explained: "They are too poor to afford to go to the hospital. Health insurance only covers hospital fees and medications. They need money for travel and food while staying at the hospital." For the border guards, helping the people is an act of love and responsibility. Of course, the local residents are always grateful for what the soldiers do for them. Ho Van Dang, Lo's husband, said: "My wife and I are very grateful to doctor Vu. He helped our child to be born safely and even provided money to buy milk. I'm very happy that our daughter has a name given by him. Whatever name he chooses, our family likes it." VNS HA NOI The Vietnam Craft Villages Festival 2023 will take place in Ha Noi from October to November to preserve and promote the values of traditional craft villages, the organising board said at a press conference on September 26. The event will be co-organised by the Department of Co-operatives and Rural Development under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD), and the Hanoi Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. A wide range of activities are scheduled, including a ceremony to honour excellent craftsmen, an opening ceremony, an art programme, an international exhibition introducing craft products and those under the One Commune One Product (OCOP) programme, and an international workshop on the preservation and development of craft villages. Thang Long Imperial Citadel will host major events from November 9-12. Particularly, the MARD will organise a Vietnamese handicraft product contest to encourage the development of products with high applicability and that meet criteria for sustainability during the international integration process. It aims to preserve the identity of Vietnamese craft villages while enhancing product values and improving workers' income. According to the Director of the Department of Co-operatives and Rural Development, Le uc Thinh, the festival creates an opportunity to honour standout craftsmen and excellent workers, develop tourism offerings, and connect craft villages with businesses to promote consumption. Meanwhile, Deputy Director of the Ha Noi Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ta Van Truong, said that Ha Noi will host seven events of the festival, including a Van Phuc craft village culture-tourism and trade week, an event to introduce the southern region's OCOP products, and a Ha Noi autumn festival. Furthermore, the Hanoi Gift Show 2023, as well as visits to Ha Noi craft villages such as Bat Trang, Van Phuc, and uong Lam, will be arranged within the framework of the festival. VNS A NANG The central city has been awarded the Seoul Smart City Prize in the category of the Human Centricity bronze at the World Cities Summit Mayors Forum in Seoul, South Korea for member cities of the World Smart Sustainable Cities Organization (WeGO). Deputy Director of the citys information and communications department Tran Ngoc Thach said the prize was given to the representative of the citys Peoples Council on September 26. Thach said it's the second regional smart city award that the city has won since it took the Asia-Oceanian Computing Industry Organisation (Asocio) Smart City Award in Bangkok, Thailand in 2019. This year's award recognised the endless efforts made by the city in boosting outstanding initiatives of building a smart city that focused on happiness, smart infrastructure, online public service, economic growth, education, and development research with human concentration. The Seoul Smart City Prize promotes an innovative yet inclusive smart city model that looks after underprivileged groups. It also aims to narrow the gap between cities and commend those that strive to implement an innovative and inclusive model of smart city in their respective capabilities, given different municipal circumstances. a Nang is a member of the 215-member list of the World Smart Sustainable Cities Organization (WeGO) a membership-based international association of local governments, smart tech solution providers, and institutions committed to the transformation of cities into smart sustainable cities through facilitating public-private partnerships (PPP) and the ASEAN Smart Cities Network. A report from the citys information and communications department revealed that smartphone subscription accounted for 93 per cent of the population in a Nang, and 97 per cent of households are using a smartphone. About 3.55 million accounts among those above 15 years old access cashless payment, while each resident owns at least two accounts on social networks attached with an identification (ID) code and health file. Every school student was given an ID and digital school reports to facilitate education survey and quality control. The citys information technology and communications (ICT) industry also launched a digital ecology system including a multi-service mobile app and digital citizenship, including a smart trips platform, switchboard 1022, and Danamap for emergency calls. a Nang has been developing itself as a 'smart city' by 2025 and is the first in Viet Nam to join the ASEAN 'smart' city network by 2030. South Koreas LG Electronics and Samsung have been cooperating with the city in promoting research, production, and education as well as electronics manufacturing. VNS About 4 billion USD, equivalent to 60% of Vietnamese products, should enjoy zero CPTPP tax, but businesses still need to take advantage. This is the assessment recently released by the Trade Affairs agencies. Accordingly, CPTPP is a large market with great potential for Vietnamese export enterprises. Although the export turnover of some Vietnamese products to the markets of CPTPP countries is positive, the value of the products is still modest, and the market share needs to be commensurate with the potential. According to the Trade Office, the reason is believed to be because businesses are unaware of the importance of developing their brand. Mainly still processing and exporting raw materials. Although there are no specific statistics on the number of Vietnamese enterprises exporting to CPTPP with their own brands, the number is generally very modest. Ms Trinh Huyen Mai, Deputy Head of the Trade Promotion Policy Department, Department of Trade Promotion (Ministry of Industry and Trade), said that currently, export enterprises are mainly SMEs, with the main form still being outsourcing or exported in raw or raw form. On the other hand, when witnessing that the rate of using preferential tariffs in CPTPP for exported goods to Canada is still too low, Ms. Tran Thu Quynh, Commercial Counselor, Vietnam Trade Office in Canada, could not help but feel sad. Ms Quynh said that the rate of using preferential tariffs has only reached about 18%, while 81% of Vietnam's exports still use MFN tariff preferences. Read more: Unpacked: UK-Vietnam Trade and the CPTPP Vietnam News - Latest Updates and World Insights | Vietreader.com Some things businesses need to keep in mind To take advantage of trade promotion activities to effectively build and develop brands, the Department of Trade Promotion (Ministry of Industry and Trade) noted that businesses should proactively increase product value by Regularly improving quality and diversifying products to suit target markets. In particular, pay attention to issues of great concern to schools, such as green transformation, sustainable development, and compatibility with consumer tastes. According to the Trade Promotion Department representative, in addition to investing in a thorough brand strategy, businesses must also pay attention to periodic communication plans and register and protect intellectual property rights for their products and product brands in foreign markets. For his part, the representative of the Department of Multilateral Trade Policy (Ministry of Industry and Trade) pointed out that there are Vietnamese export products that only account for about 3% - 5% of the host country's goods, while the market capacity is is so large that businesses need to think about ways to increase the proportion of Vietnamese goods in export markets effectively. Build your brand in export markets. To do this, businesses first need to think about standards. Each country has its standards, but it must ensure food safety and required market conditions, such as green and clean products, even through digital transformation. Increasing the amount of exported goods with Vietnamese brands to the CPTPP market is the task of management and trade promotion agencies and the important role of businesses and industry associations. Businesses must make a difference and build sustainable value for their brands. Thereby increasing the value of Vietnamese goods to markets in CPTPP and taking full advantage of opportunities from new-generation FTAs. Also read: Utilise preferential tariff under FTAs to boost economic development Vietnam News - Latest Updates and World Insights | Vietreader.com Art Trail #01 Travel & Workshop occurs at Ana Mandara Villas Dalat On September 18, Annam Gallery and Ana Mandara Villas Dalat Resort & Spa kicked off their Art Trail #01 Travel & Workshop with the mission to inspire young artists. Organised by the Lan Tinh Foundation in collaboration with Annam Gallery and Ana Mandara Villas Dalat Resort & Spa, the event is a journey created by three young artists amid the nostalgic French colonial architecture of Dalat, in a place once designated as a retreat for French officials and soldiers during the colonial period. Each artist has one week at Ana Mandara Villas Dalat, during which they can find inspiration in the resorts space or go around the city to start their first drafts. Each artist will have a personal studio space to organise their work to utilise going on field trips and studio practice. The theme of this creative camp is about nature, the landscapes of Dalats mountains and forests, the grounds of Ana Mandara, and especially the native flora. In an ancient French cultural heritage village, nestled amid the myriad of flowers in the heart of Dalat city, Ana Mandara Villas Dalat Resort & Spa carries the distinctive beauty of exquisite, romantic, and emotional French countryside architecture from the early 20th century. Hidden among lush pine forests and just a 10-minute drive from the city centre, the resort comprises 17 elegant and inspirational villas interspersed between lush, picturesque, tranquil grassy hills, far from the hustle and bustle of urban life. On the grounds of Ana Mandara Villas Dalat, each artist had one week to find inspiration and sketch out their initial creative ideas. The public could freely explore the creative camp space during two open studio days on September 23-24. In particular, the audience had the opportunity to chat with the artists when registering for an art tour during the following time slots on these two days. The public was free to explore the creative camp space and talk with artists Miss Vietnam Dang Thi Ngoc Han, the representative of the events sponsor, said, I was honoured to accompany these three young artists on this project. Arriving at this creative camp, I have time to delve deeper into each person's world-view and appreciate their talents even more. With various exciting activities under the guidance of these talented artists, each artist offered viewers vastly different visual experiences. Pham Cong Xeen looked through the lens of abstraction and aims for an emotional connection with subjects. Phan Thi Thanh Nha, who started as a botanist with a boundless passion for plants, collaborating with other botanists to illustrate plants with the precision of anatomy, brings a scientific researchers perspective. Nguyen Ha My said that from the early years of studying art, she was always drawn to botanical illustration books. Botanical art drawings have provided a strong source of inspiration for her to pursue and develop her path in artistic creativity. Together, the artists engaged in a highly fruitful workshop. Vinamarine believes a hike in container handling fees takes regional competitiveness into account, photo Le Toan The Vietnam Maritime Administration (Vinamarine), under the Ministry of Transport, has proposed an increase of 10-20 per cent in container handling fees at seaports. The draft circular aims to replace Circular No.54/2018/TT-BGTVT on the charge bracket for pilotage, wharf, dock, and mooring buoy utilisation, container handling, and towage services at Vietnamese seaports. Vinamarine has sought feedback since the beginning of September. It is suitable and essential to adjust the container handling fees by 10-20 per cent to ensure reinvestment capital for ports and upgrade service quality, it noted. Vinamarines statistics indicated that the loading and unloading fees at deep-water seaports in Vietnam are equal to 59 per cent of those in ASEAN and surrounding countries, and 85 per cent of those at the Phnom Penh port in Cambodia, an inland port with a lower investment value. According to Vinamarine, the service quality of Vietnams deepwater seaports is on par with that of regional peers. If the fees were raised too high, it would spur wide fluctuations in prices, affecting shippers expenses and import-export activities. Despite a 10 per cent increase after adjustment, service fees in these two areas are still 30-35 per cent lower than the average price in the region. Therefore, Vietnamese ports will not lose competitiveness compared to elsewhere, it added. However, many companies are concerned that this proposal will be applied to most seaports. Container handling fees will experience an increase from the previous fees, which were put in place in 2019. Some deepwater seaports that have a capacity to accommodate container ships of 160,000DWT are also subject to the increase of 10 per cent. As a result, the actual floor prices for container handling services will climb 20 per cent. An SSI Research report pointed out that small-scale ports such as Hai An Transport and Stevedoring JSC will not benefit from this policy given that most of its throughput is local goods. In addition, ports in the northern city of Haiphong are listing container handling services at prices higher than the floor price of the revised draft. Therefore, the impact of this policy may not be obvious on the financial performance of the ports in Haiphong. If the circular is approved and applied in 2024, SSI Research believes that the proposed new floor price could have a positive impact in the short term for some ports and not positive for some other ports, depending on their operating capacity. In the long term, the industrys freight prices will depend on the balance of supply and demand. Therefore, freight rates will increase and decrease accordingly in good and bad years for shipping lines. Currently, many shipping lines record losses for freight rates, so ports will have more difficulty negotiating contract prices with customers compared to 2021-2022. Meanwhile, Phan Thong, general secretary of the Vietnam Shippers Council, said there is no guarantee that port management companies will stop at this increase. In the future, they are likely to raise fees to ensure profit margins, Thong said. It is appropriate to raise the floor prices for container handling services in the current context. However, state management agencies need to monitor the fee increase to avoid a logistics cost hike and affecting export-import activities. The council has yet to calculate the impact of the fee increase on shippers if the new policy is approved. According to the latest report by SSI Research, the total container throughput in Vietnams international ports in the first seven months of 2023 reached 9.1 million TEUs, down 8 per cent on-year. There are differences between regions. In the north, the total container throughput experienced a slight decrease of 5.7 per cent to 3.4 million TEUs, thanks to less negative activities in the Chinese and intra-Asian markets. The Cai Mep-Thi Vai seaport complex in the south recorded a 14 per cent decrease in throughput in the first seven months of 2023, likely as it has more activity with the US and European markets. Analysts at SSI Research said there may be inconsistency between the policies and the market in practice. Raising floor prices will lead to an increase of 6-7 per cent at conventional transshipment ports and more than 10 per cent at deepwater seaports. It will increase the profit margin and net profit of these ports, they said. At the same time, this policy will benefit most listed port operators, such as Gemadept, Vietnam Container, Dinh Vu Port, Haiphong Port, and other unlisted port companies, such as Saigon Newport and VIMC, they added. Pham Quoc Long, chairman of the Association of Agents, Brokers, and Maritime Services, said, A roadmap to adjust container loading and unloading floor prices is necessary. Initially, it is suitable to increase container handling fees by 10 per cent in large port areas and deepwater seaports so that they can make adjustments. More time is still needed for the Ministry of Transport to consider and decide on promulgation, Long added. However, this draft circular can be seen as a positive signal for seaports. Vietnam boasts a competitive advantage when the countrys seaports can accommodate large tonnage container ships. The benefits of industrial property with built-in seaports in DEEP C Many coastal localities in Vietnam are contemplating luring investment into establishing industrial zones connected with seaports. However, apart from a suitable location, constructing a new terminal can require up to five years. 17 billion USD needed to build railway connecting to seaports As much as 17 billion USD is needed to build two railway routes connecting to seaports, namely Lao Cai-Hanoi-Hai Phong and Bien Hoa-Vung Tau, according to the Ministry of Transport (MoT). It is projected that coal demand for power generation will be boosted before the end of the year On September 13, Vietnam Electricity (EVN), Vietnam National Coal and Mineral Industries Group (Vinacomin), and Northeast Corporation signed a cooperation agreement for coal to supply electricity. Under the agreement, Vinacomin and Northeast Corporation will supply 56.48 million tonnes of coal to EVNs coal-fired power plants. We are working with Vinacomin and Northeast Corporation to secure a sufficient coal supply for our coal-fired power plants using anthracite coal from January 2024, said EVN president Tran Dinh Nhan. We have completed the plan to provide additional coal to coal-fired power plants in operation to ensure future demand. In 2023, Vinacomin has signed coal purchasing contracts for 22 thermal power plants with an output of 38.52 million tonnes of coal. From now to the end of the decade, EVNs coal-fired power plants will generate about 40-42 billion kWh per year, which equals about 28 million tonnes of coal and surpasses the coal supply capacity in the long-term contract, Nhan explained. EVN, Vinacomin, and Northeast Corporation are participating in discussions about the long-term coal supply to ensure sufficient fuel for factories from 2024 to the end of the operating period, which is expected in 2035. According to EVN, there are many challenges in supplying coal for power generation in 2023 due to shrinking coal production. The coal demand for thermal power plants is growing, given the improvement in industrial production. In August, the index of industrial production was estimated to rise by 2.9 per cent over the previous month and 2.6 per cent over the same period last year, the General Statistics Office reported. In Vietnam, coal is still an important source of fuel to generate electricity. Vinacomin must import about 17 million tonnes of coal to ensure the supply of 46.48 million tonnes of coal in 2024, said Ngo Hoang Ngan, chairman of the Board of Directors at Vinacomin. He added that there was mounting pressure to supply sufficient coal to power households from both production and import sources. The companys coal production capacity is hindered by hassles such as licence applications, licence extensions, and limits on the capacity of coal and mineral mining licences due to unsynchronised planning and policy, Ngan said. Secondly, imported coal prices remain high after a record increase in 2022. In the first seven months of 2023, Vinacomin imported 5.7 million tonnes of coal, up 78 per cent over the same period in 2022. According to a report on the Power Development Plan VIII by the Institute of Energy, the price of imported coal depends on fluctuations in the world energy market. Coal prices are predicted to reach $140 per tonne by 2025. In 2022, the average price of imported coal was about $218 per tonne, according to the General Department of Vietnam Customs. Nguyen Van Vy, vice president of the Vietnam Energy Association, said, Vietnam should seek measures to import coal early and increase domestic coal production to meet the power generation demand in the dry season next year. Vinacomin forecasts that coal demand for power generation will rebound in November after the decline of the rainy season. There are wide and unpredictable fluctuations in the world coal market, which contains many risks. By diversifying its long-term coal supply from several countries, Vietnam will reduce its dependence on certain markets, Vy said. At this time, the coal demand in the global market has eased compared to last year. However, coal prices remain high and it is hard to find a coal supply. In the first seven months of 2023, the average price of imported coal reached $147 per tonne, lower than $255 per tonne in the same period of 2022. Vy added that the government could consider building a national coal reserve system and encouraging domestic enterprises to acquire coal mines abroad. Commercial coal production is predicted to reach around 57.88 million tonnes in 2023. Among them, domestically produced commercial and imported coal represent 44.68 million and 13.2 million tonnes, respectively, according to the Department of Petroleum and Coal under the Ministry of Industry and Trade. It is forecast that the volume of imported coal will fluctuate at around 70-75 million tonnes per year, according to the report on approval of Vinacomins production, business, and investment plan for 2021-2025. According to the Power Development Plan VIII, the proportion of coal thermal power in the energy mix will decrease from nearly 29 per cent in 2020 to 20.5 per cent in 2030. Electricity produced from coal power sources will decrease rapidly, from 46.5 per cent in 2020 to 34.8 per cent by 2030. No new coal-fired power plants will be approved after 2030. Coal continues to be vital for power generation As a result of government intervention and support, the amount of coal used for power generation exceeded 20 million tonnes during the first half of this year. An increasing number of domestic and foreign financial institutions are adopting environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards for their investment activities as well as channelling capital sources into sustainable business activities. In addition, financial institutions also join forces to promote sustainable development in Vietnam. Accordingly, Standard Chartered Bank Vietnam, Prudential Vietnam, and Home Credit Vietnam have shaken hands towards the development of a sustainable future. This marks a pioneering partnership between three large corporations in the banking, insurance, and consumer finance industries. Since its inception in Vietnam in 2008, Home Credit has pursued sustainable development. The strategy, coupled with the ESG policy, aims to cement business relationships with customers, communities, employees, and partners. This lays the foundation for Home Credit to reap the rewards. The company serves more than 15 million customers and attracts 300,000 new visitors monthly, with more than 6,000 employees. It has formed a network of more than 11,000 retail partners while maintaining a bad debt ratio below the 3 per cent standard. In addition to business development, Home Credit constantly invests in activities to improve corporate governance capabilities, protect the environment, and support the community towards sustainable development goals. In Vietnam, Standard Chartered's history can be traced back to 1904, when the bank opened its first branch in Saigon. Standard Chartered has been acting as a strong partner on ESG and Sustainable Finance for its clients, with increasing focus on helping clients to decarbonise and transition. The Bank has expanded its sustainable finance asset books to over US$13 billion in 2022, representing a 30 per cent on-year growth. With over 30 product variants for Sustainable Finance and a team of 100 specialists skilled in various areas of the sustainability practice, Standard Chartered is a reliable partner for clients at various stage of their journey in ESG confidently access the most innovative services and products in sustainable finance, transition finance, blended finance and on carbon markets. In Vietnam, Prudential is committed to supporting the government to achieve the net-zero goal by 2050. Accordingly, Prudential has become one of the financial institutions acting under the Just Energy Transition Partnership. On August 30, Prudential Group launched a new purpose statement, which reflects its mission to be the most trusted partner and protector for this generation and generations to come, by providing simple and accessible financial and health solutions. Three companies have recently participated in the UK Festival themed "Sustainable Development" in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in September. The UK Festival is taking place in Danang on October 16. With a range of exciting activities, the festival offers a unique opportunity for viewers to explore the contributions and deep connections between the UK and Vietnam. Attendees can visit the festival's education pavilions, which showcase top academic programmes. In addition, the two countries have also been developing cooperation in climate change response, sustainable development, and renewable energy. Booths at the festival will show an array of British products hailing from popular retail, healthcare, and financial brands. Visitors can also learn more about the renewable energy projects and technologies that reflect the commitment of both nations to a greener, more sustainable future. Home Credit and Mobile World aim for $2 billion in revenues via partnership On August 16, Home Credit and Mobile World signed a strategic cooperation agreement to provide special financial support for customers at Mobile Worlds chains, including thegioididong.com, Dien May Xanh, and TopZone. UK Festival celebrates 50 years of UK-Vietnam relations The UK festival will mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the United Kingdom and Vietnam, showcasing the enduring friendship and collaboration between the two nations. Ambassador and Head of the EU Delegation to Vietnam Julien Guerrier speaks to the press (Photo: dantri.com.vn) Hanoi - The European Union (EU) member states all desire to be friends of Vietnam and wholeheartedly support the country's sustainable development goals, said Ambassador and Head of the EU Delegation to Vietnam Julien Guerrier during his first meeting with the press since he took office in Hanoi on September 27. Describing Vietnam as an important partner, Guerrier said the EU has developed a strategy for the Indo-Pacific region in which Vietnam holds a critically important position in terms of economy, population, and geographical location.During his tenure, he expressed wish to fulfill the task of supporting Vietnam in its socio-economic recovery post pandemic, contributing to realising its ambitious goals of achieving high-income status by 2045 and net-zero emissions by 2050. As Vietnam is actively promoting research and innovation, and applying sci-tech advances to its economy, he said the EU is eager to leverage its experience in research and innovation to assist Vietnam in these efforts. This support goes beyond ideas and expertise but also involves very concrete tools, namely the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement already in effect; the Global Gateway funding mechanism, which allocates over 300 billion EUR to various countries globally, including Vietnam; the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP); the Horizon Europe funding programme with over 100 billion USD for research and innovation; and the Enhancing Security Cooperation In and With Asia (ESIWA) project, he noted. The ambassador wished that both sides would further step up people-to-people exchanges, mutual visits and education cooperation like the upcoming Study in Europe Fair in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Regarding the removal of the illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing warning against Vietnams aquatic products, he said it is an important topic that has been under discussion between both sides for several years. He commended Vietnam's efforts in actively establishing a legal framework for IUU. However, he said what is even more crucial is that the Vietnamese fishermen must rigorously follow these legal regulations. Hoping the issue will be resolved promptly, he added that a delegation from the European Commission will visit Vietnam in October to review the situation. About cultural and heritage exchanges, he said the annual events promoting European literature, cinema and education have been welcomed by the Vietnamese people. Vietnam is an attractive destination for European travellers, and vice versa. According to him, many Vietnamese students and graduates have chosen Europe for their study over the past years. The EU offers the Erasmus Mundus, the largest master's and doctoral scholarship programme in Europe, and many young Vietnamese have received these scholarships. The "Study in Europe" event, scheduled for October 1 in Ho Chi Minh City and October 7 in Hanoi, will provide valuable information about life and education in Europe. Informing the press about the upcoming European film festivals in several major Vietnamese cities, Guerrier hoped for enhanced bilateral cultural cooperation. With rich and long-standing cultural histories, the European countries have maintained their cultural identity while undergoing modern development, he said, adding that the EU is ready to share this experience with Vietnam. Indonesia holds potential to become worlds gas supplier, Illustrative image (Photo: Antara) Jakarta Indonesia has the potential to become a country that has a strategic position to meet world gas needs, President of SPA for Asia Pacific Region ENI, Ciro Antonio Pagano, has said. Speaking at the 4th International Convention on Indonesian Upstream Oil and Gas (ICIUOG) 2023 recently held in Nusa Dua, Bali, Ciro Antonio Pagano said that the country's geographical position is considered very strategic for world energy trade, especially gas and LNG. According to him, position is strategic because it is surrounded by large buyers such as Japan, the Republic of Korea and China. On the other hand, gas demand in the domestic market is also high, making Indonesia also a potential gas market, he continued. ENI, an Italian multinational energy company, is one of the companies that has invested heavily in Indonesia. Its seriousness was demonstrated through the corporate action carried out in July 2023, when the company acquired Chevron's management rights in the Indonesian Deepwater Development (IDD) oil and gas project. Indonesia to own largest EV battery plant in Southeast Asia 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. Intricacy urged in cybercrime battle, illustration photo/ Source: freepik.com Lt. Col. Cao Viet Hung, deputy chief of the Department 4-A05 of the Ministry of Public Security (MPS), highlighted the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals at last weeks seminar on the issue in Ho Chi Minh City. Modern criminals are leveraging cutting-edge achievements such as deepfake and deep-voice technologies to facilitate illicit activities, with banks and their customers frequently being targeted, Hung explained. Take for instance a case in Ho Chi Minh City where a customer opened an online savings account with a mere VND1 million ($42), said Hung. As per bank regulations, with a deposit of that amount, a customer can borrow up to $36. However, this individual exploited the banks financial system to illicitly transfer VND10.5 billion ($442,200) to their personal account. Furthermore, Hung described the techniques cybercriminals deploy against banks: scanning systems, searching for vulnerabilities, and launching malicious software attacks. As for customers, they are continuously being targeted through a range of evolving tactics. Many experts suggest that these criminals often attack the weakest link: the end consumer, he added. Nguyen Tran Nam, digital banking director at ACB, said that in the past three years, banks have observed a surge in online scams that employ high-tech means, seizing money directly from bank accounts. Starting earlier this year, fraudsters in Vietnam have begun to imitate tax and social insurance apps, embedding them with malware designed to monitor and steal transaction information, Nam said. He also highlighted that hackers are exploiting a feature in the Android operating system called Accessibility. Originally designed to aid vulnerable users, such as the elderly or those with disabilities, this feature has been misused to record users behaviours and remotely control their devices. The modus operandi involves luring the customer to click a link and download a malicious app. This app might imitate public services or be disguised as job-seeking platforms or even games, Nam warned. Once the fake app gets the required permissions, it begins to track login details every time the customer accesses their banking app. Armed with this information, the hackers wait for the opportune moment to remotely access and transfer funds. Ngo Tan Vu Khanh, country director of Kaspersky in Vietnam, also raised concerns about the current cybersecurity landscape in the nation. While banks in Vietnam are fully equipped with security measures, from operational systems to ensuring transactional safety, the users have become the weak link, often lacking adequate tools to guard against scams, Khanh pointed out. La Anh Dung, deputy director of the Department of Payments at the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV), emphasised the extensive damage online scams inflict on customers and the substantial challenges they pose to regulatory authorities and banks. He voiced concerns over eroded customer trust and the reputational risks for banks, alongside the significant costs of combating these threats. The handling of such fraud is intricate. Curtailing online scams and fraud requires concerted efforts from various stakeholders, including both banks and customers, Dung commented. The SBV has collaborated with the MPS to integrate national demographic data for customer credit verification. Dung further mentioned that the SBV is working with the Ministry of Information and Communications to clean up and align the data of online bank account holders with mobile subscriber data. Statistically, 90 per cent of interbank transfers are below $420, while only 10 per cent exceed this amount, he stated. Hence, theres a forthcoming regulation to mandate biometric verification (via fingerprints or facial recognition) for interbank transfers, likely for amounts around that figure. This would also help counter the longstanding issue of buying, selling, or renting bank accounts. Meanwhile, Doan Thanh Hai, deputy director of the SBVs Department of Information and Technology, disclosed that the government is executing an initiative, spearheaded by the MPS and in coordination with the SBV, which aims to align bank data with national demographic databases. Cleaning the data is vital for counter-criminal operations and minimising risks in payment activities, Hai said. Hung of the MPS also emphasised the necessity for strengthened collaboration between the ministry, the SBV, and payment service providers to develop a collaborative procedure that limits the misuse of bank accounts and digital wallets. Crucially, stronger regulations against the buying and selling of bank accounts are imperative to prevent scams, Hung said. Japfa for Education journey reached out to students at Vinh Quang Elementary School in Tuyen Quang province This initiative is part of a project named "Japfa for Education" which the company has been implementing for many years to support children nationwide. As part of the programme, company representatives presented 300 gift packages consisting of backpacks and notebooks to underprivileged students, along with envelopes contributed by accompanying distributors. At Vinh Kien Elementary School in Yen Bai province, Pham Van Quang a feed agent cooperating with Japfa Vietnam expressed, "The gifts hold great significance for the children in the mountainous region, and we are delighted to accompany Japfa in spreading this love to the disadvantaged students in the local area." The value of the gifts, worth VND100 million ($4,200), includes a portion of the budget contributed by over 500 participants in a virtual run commemorating Japfa Vietnam's 27th anniversary. Pham Van Quang presented gifts to students at Vinh Kien Elementary School in Yen Bai province "Japfa for Education" is a programme maintained and implemented by Japfa Vietnam to support nutrition and create a better learning environment for children. In 2022, the company constructed and handed over Hoa Sen Kindergarten in Duc Linh district, Binh Thuan province, with an investment of over $92,800, ensuring a safe and well-equipped learning environment. Simultaneously, the journey involved the distribution of 400 gift packages along with educational supplies and nutritional support, including 1 tonne of chicken meat and 20,000 eggs, to hundreds of students in various provinces nationwide. Going forward, the company is coordinating at the highest level with stakeholders in many projects to support the community, especially children, protect the environment, and develop the quality of local labour, towards common prosperity for the whole of society. Japfa and partners join hands to support children in Binh Phuoc On September 14 and 16, Japfa Vietnam and its stakeholders presented gifts and outdoor playground equipment to four preschools in Dak Nhau and Long Ha communes in Binh Phuoc province. Japfa Vietnam supports disadvantaged students Japfa Vietnam, in collaboration with its animal feed agents, visited 10 primary schools on September 5, 2022, with gifts for almost 400 students The Lao Ministry of Industry and Commerce has rolled out measures to promote electric vehicles (EVs). (Photo: VNA) Vientiane The Lao Ministry of Industry and Commerce has rolled out measures to promote electric vehicles (EVs), a type of vehicle that uses clean energy and protects the environment. They comprise policies to encourage the development of production, supply and use of EVs and EV batteries as well as to promote the provision of post-purchase services and construction of charging stations nationwide, along with attracting investors to build factories that engage in producing and assembling four-wheeled EVs, the ministry said. Coordination with the natural resources and environment sector is also a must to set forth measures to handle expired batteries to avoid leaving negative impacts on the environment and society. Bouavanh Volavong, Director General of the ministry's Department of Industry and Handicraft, said currently, the use of EVs in Laos is urgent to minimise the budget for importing petroleum, adding that the import value of this product in Laos is relatively high, accounting for 20% of the countrys total value. According to Bouavanh, vehicles using petroleum cause negative impacts on the environment and society. Meanwhile, Laos has great potential for electricity production, thus, promoting the adoption of EVs nationwide is the right direction to take advantage of internal resources as well as to ensure the trade balance. Currently, the use of EVs in Laos still faces many obstacles such as EV manufacturing or assembling factories in Laos are limited. Besides, the road system in Laos has not met standards suitable for EVs, especially non-urban routes, while the number of charging stations has not yet satisfied actual demand. Laos, Thailand mull over building expressway linking to Vietnam Authorities of Laos and Thailand have discussed a feasibility plan to construct a 160-kmexpressway from the central Lao province of Savannakhet to Lao Bao border gate of Vietnam, Lao media reported. Laos stops power supply to cryptocurrency mining businesses Electricite du Laos (EDL) has announced that it will no longer supply electricity to cryptocurrency mining operations in Laos, local media reported. The fresh funds will be used to fuel Parkway's business expansion and facility upgrade. The dental clinic chain will also receive technology support from 24hmoney. Founded in 2017, Parkway has 11 dental clinics in five localities in Vietnam. The company plans to put another six dental clinics into operation by the first quarter of 2024. "This is a strategic fundraising round for Parkway. We hope that the tie-up with 24hmoney will help improve the standards of dental care, scale up the system, and unlock the potential of dental tourism in Vietnam," a representative of Parkway said. 24hmoney, which is owned by Vietnamese entrepreneur Phan Minh Tam, has made successful investments in the hair salon chain 30Shine and the human resources provider Sieu Viet. Tam said, "24hmoney wants to invest in businesses with growth potential and good positions in their industries. Along with financial support, we also share the know-how to support businesses in strategy building, operations, and risk management." According to a report by healthcare-focused market research firm Insights10, Vietnam's dental care market was valued at $6.59 billion in 2022 and is estimated to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 10.93 per cent from 2022 to 2030 and will reach $15.12 billion in 2030. The market is expected to grow in the future, driven by factors such as increasing awareness of oral health, a rise in the middle class with higher disposable incomes, and the government's efforts to improve access to healthcare. "Vietnam's dental care market is also being boosted by an influx of foreign investment and the development of new technologies and methods. Additionally, the dental tourism industry in Vietnam is rapidly booming, as patients from other countries are drawn to the country's lower costs and high-quality services," the report said. Vietnam's dental market has recorded some notable deals over the past few years. Accordingly, Kim Dental, Vietnams largest private dental care platform, raised $24 million in a Series B round led by ABC World Asia. Meanwhile, South Koreas Sun Medical Center was bought out by Nha Khoa My. Vietnam's dental industry is expected to reach a revenue of $435 million by 2023 Growing dental hygiene, coupled with a surge in foreign dental tourists, is expected to drive the growth of Vietnam's dental services industry, which will reach a revenue of $435 million by 2023, according to a report by Ken Research. ABC World Asia leads $24 million Series B round in Kim Dental ABC World Asia, the Singapore-based private equity fund focused on impact investing across Asia, today announced that it has led a $24 million Series B round in Kim Dental one of Vietnams leading dental system operators alongside existing backer Aura Private Equity and others. The new capital will further support Kim Dental with expanding the delivery of affordable and reliable oral healthcare services across Vietnam. Philippines seeks measures for cutting rice prices, Illustrative image (Photo: VNA) Hanoi - The Philippines is considering options other than a price ceiling to tackle high rice prices, the countrys National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has said. NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan and Secretary of Finance Benjamin E. Diokno recently proposed to temporarily slash the tariff rate of 35 per cent on rice from ASEAN countries and those receiving the most-favoured-nation (MFN) treatment to about 0 per cent - 10 per cent. Balisacan stressed the need to temporarily cut tariffs amid surging global prices to prevent adverse impacts on retail, wholesale, and farm prices. He noted NEDA will discuss other options to reduce rice prices with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. instead of imposing a price ceiling. The price ceiling ordered by the President is just temporary as the Government has to seek better options. NEDA is keeping a close watch on global rice prices and the export volumes of big exporting countries. The recent rice export ban of India and the pressure from major exporting countries like Vietnam and Thailand have boosted global prices. The El Nino phenomenon has also possibly contributed to the price hike, according to the official. Typhoon Doksuri kills 25, makes 20 missing in Philippines The Philippines National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) on July 31 announced that the death toll from flooding and landslides triggered by Typhoon Doksuri climbed to 25, and at least 20 others remain missing. Super typhoon Saola triggers evacuations in Philippines The Philippines rescue force on August 27 said that hundreds of people were forced to leave their homes as floods unleashed by super typhoon Saola swept through mainly rural villages in the northwestern region of the country. Bach Hoa Xanh is Vietnam's third-largest grocery chain GIC is among the bidders looking to acquire a stake in Bach Hoa Xanh in a transaction that could increase the grocery chain's valuation to $1.5-1.7 billion. Other bidders include companies from Thailand. The deal is slated to be wrapped up in the first quarter of 2024 if the negotiations are successful, as reported by Reuters. "The deal is nearing the finalising stage and is expected to close soon," a source with knowledge of the matter said. Mobile World said, "Information will be announced once the deal is concluded. The company is still in a private placement and has signed an agreement not to disclose information with interested bidders." Established in 2015, Bach Hoa Xanh, backed by Vietnam's retail giant Mobile World Investment, runs more than 1,700 stores in Vietnam's southern and south-central provinces. Mobile World has now decided to proceed with the planned sale after putting it on hold earlier this year due to unfavourable market conditions, the sources said. The company had first planned the sale of up to 20 per cent of Bach Hoa Xanh last year. This potential deal is expected to heat up the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in Vietnam's retail market in 2024. Indeed, retail is one of the hot sectors for M&A deals in the nation, with many worth billions of dollars. To tap into the market of 100 million people, domestic and foreign retailers are stepping up their dealmaking activities. Notable transactions have included Thai investors Central Group and Berli Jucker acquiring the Big C and Metro supermarkets, as well as Vietnamese groups Thaco and Saigon Co.op taking over the Emart and Auchan supermarkets. Another big deal involved Vingroup selling its retail subsidiary VinCommerce, which operated VinMart and VinMart+, to Masan Group. In April 2021, South Korea's SK Group paid $410 million for a 16.26 per cent stake in VinCommerce (currently renamed WinCommerce). SK also spent $340 million to scoop up a 4.9 per cent stake in Crown X, a consumer retail platform from Masan Group. In the same year, Alibaba Group and Baring Private Equity Asia acquired a 5.5 per cent stake in The CrownX for $400 million. Looking ahead, the retail landscape seems promising. The current market valuation stands at $142 billion, with projections estimating a surge to $350 billion in the near future. Given that the retail sector has been a favourite for investment, Vietnam is expected to see more vibrant retail M&As, especially from foreign retailers looking to expand further within the local market. Vietnam heads regional M&A bounce The end of 2023 is forecast to be an exciting time for mergers and acquisitions in the real estate sector, which is set to help domestic enterprises lower their debt repayment pressures. KBank explores potential M&A deal in Vietnam's banking sector Kasikornbank (KBank), a commercial bank from Thailand, is in talks to acquire Home Credit Vietnam, according to two sources. The company, which is the largest solar energy producer globally by revenue, is poised to invest approximately $400 million to construct a sprawling 25-hectare plant that is projected to commence operations by 2025. This information, according to Reuters, came in light of heightened scrutiny and tariffs being placed on products from its bases in Thailand. The escalation in investment in Vietnam is reflective of Trina Solars agile business strategy in response to evolving international trade landscapes, cited Reuters. Additionally, the possibility of escalating the investment to $600 million is also under consideration, though details on this front remain closely guarded as Trina Solar has opted to withhold comment. This strategic development emerged following the US Department of Commerce's investigation that concluded last month, implicating Trina Solar among other Chinese solar energy corporations that are realigning their manufacturing bases in Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries to circumvent US punitive tariffs on solar panels. It is crucial to highlight that these anticipated tariffs, effective from mid-2024, will predominantly impact Trina Solars operations in Thailand. Nevertheless, the establishment of manufacturing units in Southeast Asia by Chinese companies to facilitate exports to the US continues to be closely monitored. According to S&P Global Market Intelligence, Southeast Asian nations are the source of approximately 80 per cent of the solar panel supply to the US, with Vietnam contributing around one-third of the total units imported in Q1/2023. Currently, Trina Solar stands as a pivotal player in Vietnams solar manufacturing landscape, operating two factories within the nation. The precise array of products to be manufactured in the new facility remains a subject of speculation, with some insiders suggesting a focus on solar cells and others proposing silicon panels. Concurrently, multiple industrial zones are being considered for the construction of the new facility, with Trina Solar seeking expert opinions, including feng shui consultations, to finalise the decision. The discourse also encompassed the potential power supply challenges for Trina Solar's new venture in Vietnam, as the company weighs up the disruptions caused by the heatwave in June that impacted hydroelectric power production and led to cuts. Trina Solars established ventures in Vietnam include the solar energy manufacturing plant in the Van Trung Industrial Park in Bac Giang that was completed in January 2017. With an investment of around $100 million, it has a designed total production capacity of 1GW. Another significant establishment is Trina Solar Energy Development Factory in Thai Nguyen. Aimed at manufacturing photovoltaic cells and solar panels, it was initiated in December 2020 with an investment of approximately $203 million. Norsk Solar signs deal with CME Solar to promote solar energy solutions Norway's Norsk Solar has inked a deal with Vietnam's CME Solar to advance renewable energy initiatives in Vietnam, especially solar energy solutions in the country. Texas author Lawrence Wright turns to fiction in his new novel Mr. Texas and the shift from nonfiction may allow him to tell more of the truth. His tale of failing and somewhat naive West Texas rancher Sonny Lamb catapulted into the Texas Legislature, with expected and unexpected results, has seen multiple shapes since he came up with the idea during the Camelot era of Texas Democrats when Ann Richards was governor. The idea began as an unproduced movie script, Sonnys Last Shot, then over time morphed into a play, a television series and, the last stop before the novel, a musical podcast too expensive to produce as a podcast. Ive written it in probably every form possible, he chuckled during a recent phone interview. Texas changed from a blue state to a bright red one during that time, one of multiple ways the state has transformed over the last 30 years, and so did Sonny, becoming a Republican as the books political landscape moved as well, molded by economic shifts, demographic trends and culture wars. Mr. Texas is only the third novel for Wright, whose account of the 9/11 attacks, The Looming Tower, won the writer a Pulitzer Prize. In addition to his work as a staff writer for The New Yorker, the Austin-based author has 11 nonfiction books, including Going Clear, about Scientology, and God Save Texas. The multiple iterations of his original story deepened and enriched its characters, thanks to the emphasis on character and scenes in screenplays and scripts, but a novel offered breathing room in different spaces. With a novel, you can say what could happen, he explained. And theres also room for hope, he added, a quality that wasnt prominent in his 2018 look at the states political and economic trends, God Save Texas. Wright will talk about his novel and its context of Texas politics and statecraft at 7 p.m. Thursday in a discussion and book signing at Wacos Fabled Bookshop & Cafe. Its a ticketed event, with tickets available on the bookstores website. In tracking Lambs political rise, fall and, well, somewhat surprising finish, Wright populates his novel with richly drawn characters, some of whom are modeled on actual Austin players such as former Lt. Gov. Bob Bullock and gadfly political writer Molly Ivins. Others, like Lamb, his clear-eyed wife Lola, behind-the-scenes power broker L.D. Sparks and up-and-coming female Hispanic politician Angela Martinez are echoes or composites of people Wright has known through his decades in Austin. The wit and humor that flavors the book feels Texan as well. While proud of his book, Wright would love to see the podcast version that he, his son Gordon and Austin musician Marcia Ball crafted, with songs speaking for many of the books characters. I wrote eight episodes and Gordon and Marcia wrote some 50 songs. It was a creative explosion, he said. Paying and recording the musicians performing those songs, however, bumped the podcast past the line of expense. Podcasts are meant to be cheap, he said, although he noted the tracks recorded for it may end up as a recording project somewhere. Wright noted he learned piano enough to try and play Great Balls of Fire for his 40th birthday, far later in life than his talented, piano-playing children, and found that a love of music and performing has stayed with him. Mr. Texas and its story of corruption, power politics and other shenanigans in the Texas Legislature arrives in the immediate aftermath of Attorney General Ken Paxtons impeachment, when many of those issues were aired as reality. While that may give his story more resonance to readers, Wright said the tale is tempered with a love for Texas that he believes, if expressed by enough citizens, can save the state from forces that may damage its future. Hope, in other words. Something a novel can express. Several states that have made most children eligible for taxpayer-funded scholarships to private schools are seeing more families using the programs than planned. By Lars McKie On the outskirts of Linkoping is the Malmen Airbase, today the main base for the Swedish Armed Forces helicopter units and home to the Royal Swedish Air School. Linkoping is located on the Ostergotland plain, in the south-east of Sweden, and the city, known mostly for its university and high-tech industry, also rightly claims the title of the cradle of Swedish aviation. The location was originally suggested by aviation pioneer Carl Cederstrom who, in 1910, gained his wings at the Bleriot flying school, becoming the 74th pilot to qualify and the 1st for Sweden. The area was well suited for aviation activities and by 1913, the newly formed Armeflyget (Army Air Corps) was established in this location, which has housed numerous military units since that time. When Army and Navy units merged, forming the Swedish Air Force in 1926, the airfield became home to Ostgota Flygflottilj F3 as well as other divisions and squadrons. The city of Linkoping is also home to the Saab company, which since the 1930s has been building aircraft. Initially building airplanes on license, but with what would turn into WWII looming the Swedish government tasked Saab with establishing domestic development and production of military aircraft. This policy is still continued to this day, and has through the decades following WWII produced some of the most iconic fighter aircraft ever developed. It is here that airplanes such as the J29-Barrel, A32-Lansen, 35-Dragon, 37-Viggen, and todays flagship the modern fighter 39-Gripen are built. With these deep roots in Swedish aviation heritage, it was only natural that the Flygvapenmuseum (Swedish Air Force Museum) was established here. The core of the museum we see today was opened to the public in 1984, and has expanded several times since. Preamble to a museum The artifacts (aircraft, engines, instruments, and uniforms) started with a collection saved from scrapping by Col. Gosta von Porat, the commanding officer of Ostgota Wing F3 between 1934 and 1941. However, this Malmen-collection was inside the air base, inaccessible to the public, until moved to (what were meant to be temporary facilities) outside the base in 1967. These temporary facilities remained in use for decades while plans for a new museum on Malmen Air Base were developed. At last, on 8 March 1984, the first of the brand-new purpose-built exhibition halls was inaugurated by Swedish king Carl XIV Gustaf. Five years later a second hall was opened, enabling 60 aircraft to be placed on exhibition. The museum today exhibits an extensive overview of Swedish aviation history from 1910 to the modern airframes of today. Over three levels, and two large hangar-sized exhibition halls, the displays also cover both world wars and the roles Sweden played in them. The museums next display is devoted to providing an insight in what Sweden was like, and what role the nation played, during the Cold War era as a neutral country wedged between NATO and the Warsaw Pact nations. Warbirds on display The museum owns over 300 individual aircraft and helicopters, though only about 50 are on display within their own exhibitions. The rest are in storage or on loan to other museums not only in Sweden but to museums all over the world. Because the Swedish Air Force flew numerous types of aircraft, the collection covers a very wide range of airplanes. Among many notable aircraft on display, here are a few highlights: The only complete Junkers Ju 86K left in the world. Concerned by the developments in the late 1930s, and at the outlook of war, Sweden purchased several aircraft from Germany. Designated B3 in Swedish service, it was used as a medium bomber. This particular aircraft was delivered to Sweden in 1938. This was the first all-metal aircraft used by the Swedish Air Force, and as a testament to its sturdy design, it remained in service, transitioning to a transport role in the 1950s, until 1958 when it made its final flight. Another unique aircraft is the Saab B18. This indigenous Swedish twin-engine aircraft made its maiden flight in 1942, and was the second type that Saab designed. There were only 244 produced, and the type was taken out of service in the late 1950s. Unfortunately, not a single airframe was saved and preserved. The B18 on display in the museum was salvaged from the bottom of Harnosand harbor where it sank after a forced landing in 1946. The aircraft is today in a state of continuous restoration while on public displayed in one of the museum halls. The exhibition also includes more well-known types, all flown by the Swedish Air Force, such as a J26 (P-51D Mustang), a S31 (Supermarine Spitfire Mark XIX), Saab B17A, a TP47 (Catalina PBY-5), J9 (Seversky Republic EP-1 Model 106) the list is long, and this is before mentioning a single jet aircraft. The Catalina affair a Cold War crisis In 2009 the museum opened an exhibition covering a remarkable piece of Cold War history. The Catalina Affair was a military confrontation in 1952 where Soviet Air Force fighters shot down two Swedish aircraft over international waters in the Baltic Sea, triggering a major diplomatic crisis. The first aircraft to be shot down was an unarmed Swedish Air Force Tp79 (# 79001), a derivative of the Douglas DC-3. The aircraft was built in 1943 as 42-5694, and had been sold to Sweden in 1946 post-war after having been stationed in Africa. On this fateful day the aircraft with its eight-man crew was on a signals intelligence-gathering (SIGINT) mission. During the subsequent search and rescue, a Soviet fighter engaged and shot down a second aircraft, a PBY-5 Catalina with a crew of seven. Luckily, they managed to ditch the aircraft with no fatalities. The Tp79 / DC-3 aircraft remained lost until it was rediscovered in 2003. After 52 years, the remains of the DC-3 were salvaged and lifted to the surface then transferred to a Naval base for forensic investigations and preservation. The remains of four of the eight-man crew were found and positively identified from inside the wreckage. The wreck of that specific aircraft and several artifacts are today on public display in the museum. Bullet holes in the fuselage are evidence of the attack it received. Restorations The museum workshop undertakes maintenance and restorations. Currently, the workshop is in the process of restoring a TP81, a Grumman G-21A Goose. The Swedish Air Force acquired one aircraft in 1951 to serve in the north of Sweden stationed at F21 Lulea. The one aircraft served valiantly as an ambulance aircraft until 1962 when it had an incident on takeoff, resulting in the total loss of the aircraft. The Goose under restoration in the museums workshop is not an original Swedish example, but one acquired from the Caribbean in a trade deal which arrived at the museum in 1986. Then placed into storage, it was not until 2016 that the aircraft was brought out for restoration. Archives, library, and restorations Within the museum, there is also a large archive holding thousands of documents dating back to the early 1900s. Drawings, pilot logbooks, newspaper clippings, correspondence, photographs, and even private documents from aviation pioneers have been donated to the museum. The museum employs a wide range of skilled personnel all with the common goal to preserve and maintain the collection. Just to the side of the main museum buildings is the workshop where technical maintenance and restorations take place, which we hope to cover in more depth in later updates on the museum activities. For more information, visit www.flygvapenmuseum.se WATERLOO A former nurse is accused of taking pain medication from more than 50 mothers at the maternity ward of a Waterloo hospital in 2022. Last week, prosecutors for U.S. District Court of the Northern District of Iowa charged Christina Eileen Olson, also known as Christina Hovey, 43, with acquiring a controlled substance by deception, adulteration of a drug with intent to defraud and making false statements in health care matters. Records indicate Olson began working for the hospital in 2017, and she was assigned to the labor and delivery unit in 2019 as a registered nurse, caring for late-term pregnant women, women in labor, post-partum women, and women recovering from recent caesarean section surgery. Beginning in January 2022 Olson began accessing pain medications including hydromorphone, fentanyl and oxycodone for person use under the guise of filling orders for patients. For example, defendant withdrew pain medication from a secure dispensing machine at the hospital on the false and fraudulent pretense that a patient had an order for that medication when the patient did not have such an order, prosecutors noted in the charging documents. Instead of administering the controlled substances to the women in pain, however, defendant diverted the controlled substances to herself for her own illicit drug use. Defendant diverted narcotics from no less than 50 victims, court records state. To cover her tracks, Olson allegedly replaced the missing drugs with saline and then completed paperwork that ultimately billed patients insurance companies for the drugs, according to court records. Iowa Board of Nursing records and the charging documents indicate hospital officials became concerned following a March 2022 incident. A mother gave birth by a complex C-section surgery on March 23, 2022. Olson allegedly indicated she administered hydromorphone and oxycodone to control the mothers pain March 25. But the patients husband told hospital staff she hadnt received any pain medication, records state. The following day, Olson underwent a drug screening at the request of the hospital, and the tests were positive for opiates and marijuana. She allegedly admitted to officials she diverted the pain medicine for personal use, according to nursing board records. As part of a settlement with the nursing board, Olson relinquished her license in August 2022 and agreed not to seek reinstatement for a year. Olson had worked at MercyOne/Covenant, according to records and Courier archives. 10 essential documentaries on the opioid crisis 10 essential documentaries on the opioid crisis The Crime of the Century Recovery Boys 7 Days: The Opioid Crisis in Arkansas Do No Harm: The Opioid Epidemic Heroin(e) This Might Hurt The Pharmacist Warning: This Drug May Kill You The Trade Dr. Feelgood The University of Northern Iowa, Hawkeye Community College and Cedar Valley Makers will celebrate Manufacturing Day on Oct. 6 with special presentations, tours and food. Foundries, business owners, educators and students can attend the free open house from noon to 6 p.m. at the Waterloo TechWorks Campus, 360 Westfield Ave., Waterloo. The TechWorks campus is a unique gem in the manufacturing space, said Jerry Thiel, director of UNI Metal Casting and Foundry 4.0 Centers. Were excited to open our spaces to the public and share how innovative we are in the Cedar Valley. Tours of the UNI Foundry 4.0 Center, Cedar Valley Makers, and Hawkeye Community College Automation and Robotics Center spaces and presentations will be available throughout the afternoon. Presentations will start at noon on floor two, covering the manufacturing topics of robotic casting finishing cells, Internet of Things, building the workforce of the future, and business and tech goal alignment. Additional business track presentations will cover topics like taking on new investments, operational metrics in manufacturing, ownership and valuation of the business. The All About Cheesesteaks food trailer will be stationed outside of the building. WATERLOO Despite a few downpours, the 113th National Cattle Congress Fair attracted thousands of visitors over its five-day stretch. Attendance numbers havent been finalized yet and were affected by the few days of rain but Fair Board President Deb Pullin-Van Auken said people still came out in droves. She said the food available at the fair was the most popular both the contests and the vendors on the fairgrounds. The participation in the multiple baking contests featuring cinnamon rolls, the Mayors Cookie Jar, pumpkin bread and coffee cake grew three-fold, she said. Another new contest, the ultimate fair food contest, showcased unique fair foods available for purchase from vendors. The winner was a lobster corn dog, basically a batter-fried lobster tail on a stick. Even the food vendors were telling the fair board how great and diverse the food options were this year, Pullin-Van Auken said. She said the fair saw a 50% increase in the home arts contest entries, which include horticulture, photography and traditional home arts. As for the more traditional aspects of the NCC Fair, 299 head of cattle participated in the dairy show. Pullin-Van Auken noted that was larger than the Iowa State Fairs dairy show. One growing dairy show was for a scholarship. To participate, participants had to win their county fair in the dairy cattle category. There were 27 competitors including a group from Nebraska that came to Waterloo to have more competition because there is not as much dairy cattle in Nebraska. The winner received a $2,000 scholarship. Second and third place received $1,000 and $500, respectively. Another popular event was the return of national music acts. Concerts included performances by Grammy-nominated artists such as country musician Tracy Lawrence and alternative rock band Everclear. An NCC Fair featuring big-name entertainers is a callback to the early 1990s, when musicians like Garth Brooks performed. As for next year, Pullin-Van Auken said she hopes the fair expands educational exhibits in the ag building. This year, there were knitters and rug weavers holding demonstrations. She hopes in the future that popular attractions like the food vendors and dairy show can grow even more but right now there just isnt enough space. The public presentation is at 11 a.m. on Oct. 4 on Zoom. With homelessness being a rising issue across the country, Friends of the Family provides assistance that helps individual overcome barriers to maintaining stable housing. They will provide information about the state of homelessness in Waterloo and the housing assistance programs they provide. CLINTON TOWNSHIP, MICH. As his Republican rivals gathered in California for their second primary debate, Donald Trump was in battleground Michigan Wednesday night working to win over blue collar voters by lambasting President Joe Biden and his push for electric cars in the midst of an autoworkers' strike. "A vote for President Trump means the future of the automobile will be made in America," Trump said at Drake Enterprises, a non-unionized auto parts supplier in Clinton Township, about a half-hour outside Detroit. The Republican front-runner's trip came a day after Biden became the first sitting U.S. president to walk a picket line as he joined United Auto Workers members in Detroit. The union is pushing for higher wages, shorter work weeks and assurances from the country's top automakers that new electric vehicle jobs will be unionized. The dueling appearances preview what will likely be a chief dynamic of the 2024 general election, which increasingly looks like a rematch between Trump and Biden. Michigan is expected to again be a critical battleground state as both candidates try to paint themselves as champions of the working class. Trump maintains a commanding lead in the GOP primary even as he faces four separate criminal indictments. Trump, in his speech, tried to cast Biden as hostile to the auto industry and workers, claiming the industry was "being assassinated." He insisted Biden's embrace of electric vehicles will lead to lost jobs, amplifying some autoworkers' concerns that electric cars require fewer people to manufacture and that there is no guarantee factories that produce them will be unionized. "He's selling you out to China, he's selling you out to the environmental extremists and the radical left, people who have no idea how bad this is going to be for the environment," Trump told his crowd, flanked by American flags and pallets of auto parts. He also downplayed the strike. While he said he supported the workers and hoped they would get a good deal, he said any deal won't matter if new electric vehicle mandates take effect. "Your current negotiations don't mean as much as you think," he said. While Trump cast himself as pro-worker, he clashed repeatedly with union leadership and tried to turn union members against their leaders. In a recent campaign video, he urged autoworkers not to pay union dues and claimed their leaders have "got some deals going for themselves." "I WILL KEEP YOUR JOBS AND MAKE YOU RICH!!!" he has told them. Hours before Trump's visit, the UAW posted a video on its Facebook page protesting factory closures by Detroit's automakers that included 2017 footage of Trump telling a northern Ohio crowd that auto jobs would come back. Two years later, General Motors closed a huge assembly plant in Lordstown, Ohio, costing thousands of jobs. Still, Trump repeatedly urged the union to endorse him, at one point directly appealing to UAW President Shawn Fain. While the union withheld its support for Biden after endorsing him in 2020, Fain appeared at Biden's side during his visit Tuesday and criticized Trump. "I don't think he cares about working-class people. I think he cares about the billionaire class, he cares about the corporate interests," Fain said of Trump. "I think he's just trying to pander to people and say what they want to hear, and it's a shame." Biden's reelection campaign called Trump's speech "a pathetic, recycled attempt to feign support for working Americans." Drake Enterprises, where Trump spoke, makes automotive and heavy-duty truck components, said its president, Nathan Stemple, who noted a shift to electric cars would cripple him. While Trump aides said his audience would include several hundred current and former UAW members, as well as members of plumbers and pipefitters unions, the crowd also included many non-union workers who support the former president. Some said they were invited by people who did business with Drake; others said they simply arrived at the factory and were allowed to attend. Tony Duronio, 64, a longtime Trump supporter and real estate broker who lives in Clinton Township, said he received an invitation from a group called Autoworkers for Trump. Duronio praised the economy during Trump's time in office and echoed the former president's criticism of electric vehicles: "Nobody wants 'em." He also applauded Trump's decision to skip the debate. "He's the front-runner. He doesn't have any competition," he said. "Look, if it ain't him, I may stay home 'cause the rest are no different than Biden." The former president tried to use the strike to drive a wedge between Biden and union workers, a constituency that helped pave the way for Trump's surprise 2016 victory in Democratic strongholds like Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania, fundamentally reshaping voting alliances as he railed against global trade deals and vowed to resurrect dying manufacturing towns. Biden won those states back in 2020 as he emphasized his working-class roots and commitment to organized labor. He often calls himself the " most pro-union president" in U.S. history and argues the investments his administration is making in green energy and electric vehicle manufacturing will ensure the future of the industry unfolds in the U.S. Union leaders know the transition to electric vehicles is coming, but whether new battery manufacturing plants will be unionized is a major UAW concern in contract negotiations. The Trump campaign vigorously defended his record as pro-worker but union leaders say his first term was far from worker-friendly, citing unfavorable rulings from the nation's top labor board and the U.S. Supreme Court, as well as unfulfilled promises of automotive jobs and the closure of the Ohio GM plant. The Most Unionized Cities in America The Most Unionized Cities in America Union members enjoy higher wages than non union workers Union membership in the US continues to decline Pacific and Northeastern states have the highest unionization rates The most unionized small and midsize metros 15. Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA 14. Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI 13. San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley, CA 12. Fresno, CA 11. Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD 10. Hartford-East Hartford-Middletown, CT 9. San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA 8. Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA 7. Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI 6. Providence-Warwick, RI-MA 5. Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA 4. Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA 3. New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA 2. Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom, CA 1. Buffalo-Cheektowaga, NY An Iowa roofing company has lost its legal battle to avoid paying employment taxes by classifying its workers as independent contractors. The company had argued that because it doesnt treat its workers as employees requiring them to use their own cars and tools while denying them training and benefits it was not liable for taxes as an Iowa employer. The case illustrates how some companies have sought to avoid certain tax liabilities by denying workers benefits that are traditionally afforded company employees. Court records indicate Iowa Workforce Development audited Contreras Roofing, run by Leonel Contreras of Des Moines, at some point in the past two years, reviewing its practices as far back as 2017. After the audit was completed, IWD concluded the companys 10 workers were each employees as defined by Iowa law, which would mean the company should have been making unemployment-insurance payments related to their work. Contreras argued otherwise and said the workers, several of whom are his relatives, were independent contractors. As evidence of that, he cited the fact that the workers show up on job sites without knowing how much theyll be paid; they use their own vehicles; they supply their own tools; they have no set hours and no company-provided training; they have to return to job sites at their own expense to fix any mistakes; and they have no benefits or health insurance. All of that, he argued, showed the workers were independent contractors which relieved him of the obligation to pay any unemployment-insurance taxes that might be tied to their work. IWD disagreed and noted that the workers were not incorporated as their own businesses, had never registered with the state as contractors as required by law, and had never invoiced Contreras for any of their work. The agency also reviewed payroll records and found that although the workers were allegedly being paid according to piece-work, their total annual wages were all reported in round figures, such as $90,000 or $70,000, which suggested they were employees being paid a fixed salary. After concluding Contreras Roofing was, in fact, the workers employer, IWD informed the company it owed $64,862 in unpaid unemployment-insurance taxes. The company appealed that decision, but Administrative Law Judge Joseph Ferrentino sided with IWD. He noted there was no evidence the workers performed any labor for other roofing companies or for the general public, as they would if they were independent contractors. In seeking to have the courts overturn that decision, the companys attorney, Valerie Cramer, argued IWDs actions ignore decades of past practice in treating construction workers as independent contractors. She also alleged racial discrimination, claiming IWD has avoided reclassifying white-owned companies as employers. Polk County District Judge David Nelmark recently ruled in favor of the state, stating the evidence was overwhelming that Contreras was the workers employer. As for the claim of selective and racially motivated actions by IWD, Nelmark noted that Cramer provided no legal support or evidence for this argument. He pointed out that Cramer represents several Spanish-speaking clients who were recently audited by IWD. Without more evidence, the court can only surmise that this argument arose from sample bias, Nelmark ruled. Cramers sample, i.e., her clients who have recently been audited, is an unbalanced representation of the overall population being audited by the IWD. Cramer focuses representation on Spanish-speaking clients, so in her limited sample pool, primarily Spanish speakers are being audited. Metros in Iowa where jobs are growing fastest Metros in Iowa where jobs are growing fastest #7. Sioux City #6. Des Moines #5. Waterloo #4. Iowa City #3. Cedar Rapids #2. Dubuque #1. Ames DES MOINES Iowa will end fiscal year 2023 with a budget surplus of $1.83 billion, Gov. Kim Reynolds announced on Wednesday. Reynolds said in a press release the surplus is an indication that the state is collecting more than it needs in taxes, rather than a sign it is not spending enough, and vowed to pursue more tax cuts in the coming legislative session. "Weve seen what the powerful combination of growth-oriented policies and fiscal restraint can create, and now its time for Iowans to directly receive the benefits," Reynolds said. "I look forward to cutting taxes again next legislative session and returning this surplus back to where it belongs the people of Iowa. In addition to the general fund surplus, Iowa holds $902 million in cash reserves and $2.74 billion in the taxpayer relief fund. Combined with a projected $233 million Economic Emergency Fund, Iowa's unspent funds total $5.7 billion. The budget surplus is slightly below what it was in fiscal year 2022, when Iowa ended the year with $1.91 billion. The state's revenues are expected to decline as tax cuts signed last year take effect, which will slowly reduce the individual income tax to 3.9% for all taxpayers over coming years. Republican Iowa Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver said the surplus indicates lawmakers should pursue "bigger and bolder" income tax cuts. "As long as I am Majority Leader, the Senate will continue to reduce taxes on Iowans and in the 2024 Legislative Session we will again work with Governor Reynolds and the House to achieve that goal," he said in a written statement. In statements on Wednesday, Democrats criticized Reynolds' tax policies and said she has prioritized corporate interests while neglecting low-income families. Iowa's top corporate tax rate fell last week to 7.1% because corporate revenue met thresholds placed in the 2022 tax law. Gov. Reynolds talks a big game about relief for Iowa families, but shes always put rich corporations and special interests first and she always will, said Sen. Janet Petersen, a Democrat from Des Moines and ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. While Gov. Reynolds is again slashing corporate taxes and promising more giveaways to come, middle-class families still arent getting ahead. Iowa City VA awarded $1.5 million to improve health care access to veterans The Iowa City VA Health Care System will receive $1.5 million in federal funding to expand telehealth services and health care access to veterans in rural Iowa. The health care system was one of five rural hospitals in the Midwest to receive funding from the Office of Rural Health as part of a project to increase availability of specialty care and bridge the gap in healthcare access for veterans in rural areas. Funding will be used to support technology to expand telemedicine capabilities, including real-time consultations among patients, VA clinicians and hospital specialists. The model emphasizes patient comfort and convenience, reducing the burden of travel and providing timely and effective interventions closer to home, according to a VA news release. The aim, according to the health care system, is to promotes cost-effective care delivery without compromising on quality, by utilizing telemedicine and advanced practice providers nurses, social workers and other ancillary services with physician support. Furthermore, it increases rural healthcare capacity and reduces unnecessary transfers to tertiary care centers, according to the announcement from the Iowa City VA Health Care System. The program also allows providers to receive training and mentorship at the VA hospital, helps with recruitment and retention, and promotes collaborative care teams, which improve patient outcomes, the release states. Pate urges Iowans to turn to trusted sources for election information Republican Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate and county election officials are urging Iowans to turn to trusted sources for information ahead of city-school elections this November. There has been an alarming increase in the spread of false claims regarding elections across the country despite there being no evidence of intrusions into Iowas election systems, according to a statement from the Iowa Secretary of States Office. Pate and county auditors said Iowans can be assured elections in the state are some of the safest and securest in the country, and Iowa election officials take multiple steps to ensure election integrity. Those steps include: Requiring Iowans vote on paper ballots. Publicly testing voting equipment before each election. Conducting post-election audits in all 99 counties. Collaborating with agencies like the Iowa Office of the Chief Information Officer and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on cybersecurity protections. Requiring voters to provide an ID at the polls and on absentee ballot requests. In addition to the many steps election officials take each year to ensure safe and secure elections in our state, we have 10,000 Iowans who step up each election to be poll workers, Pate and the auditors said in a joint statement. Poll workers are trusted faces in your community, they are your friends and neighbors. Iowans from both sides of the aisle play a key role in protecting the integrity of our vote, and we have the highest respect for their service. Pates office has created a website and a five-minute video debunking election myths and detailing security measures Iowa has put in place to protect elections, including how ballots and election equipment are maintained. Russian Defence Ministry report on the progress of the special military operation (28 September 2023) Part I (See Part II) The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the special military operation. In Donetsk direction, units of the Yug Group of Forces, in close cooperation with aviation and artillery, repelled two attacks by AFU 53rd, 110th mechanised brigades assault groups near Pervomayskoye and southwestern of Veseloye (Donetsk Peoples Republic). The enemys losses totalled up to 190 Ukrainian servicemen killed and wounded, as well as 11 motor vehicles. Also, one Grad MLRS, one U.S.-made M777 artillery system, two D-20 howitzers, and one Msta-B howitzer were hit during counter-battery warfare. In Zaporozhye direction, units of the Russian Group of Forces supported by aviation and artillery launched attacks at AFU 65th mechanised, 82nd air assault brigades close to Rabotino and northwestern of Verbovoye (Zaporozhye region). Up to 45 Ukrainian personnel, one U.S.-manufactured Bradley infantry fighting vehicle, two armoured fighting vehicles, and three motor vehicles were neutralised. In addition, one D-30 howitzer, one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system, and one U.S.-made M119 howitzer were hit during counter-battery warfare. In South Donetsk direction, the Vostok Group of Forces units, Ground-Attack Aviation and helicopters improved the frontline situation and repelled two attacks of AFU assault groups close to Priyutnoye (Zaporozhye region). The enemys casualties were up to 105 Ukrainian personnel killed and wounded, two armoured fighting vehicles, and five motor vehicles. In addition, one AFU sabotage and reconnaissance group of the AFU 110th Territorial Defence Brigade was destroyed north of Priyutnoye (Zaporozhye region). In Krasny Liman direction, professional actions of units of the Tsentr Group of Forces, aviation, helicopters and artillery repelled one attack of the AFU 63rd Mechanised Brigades assault group close to Chervonaya Dibrova (Lugansk Peoples Republic). AFU 21th and 63rd mechanised brigades units have been hit near Torskoye and Yampolovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic). The total losses of the enemy amounted to 60 Ukrainian servicemen, two armoured fighting vehicles, and two D-30 howitzers. Russian Defence Ministry Russian Defence Ministry report on the progress of the special military operation (28 September 2023) Part II (See Part I) In Kupyansk direction, aviation and artillery of the Zapad Group of Forces inflicted fire damage on manpower and hardware of the 14th, 32nd mechanised, and 25th Air Assault Brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine close to Zagoruikovka, Timkovka (Kharkov region) and Stelmakhovka (Lugansk Peoples Republic). Up to 50 Ukrainian troops and two motor vehicles have been neutralised. In counter-battery warfare one U.S.-made M777 artillery system, one U.S.-made M109 Paladin self-propelled artillery system, one Msta-B howitzer, and one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system were destroyed. One ammunition depot of the AFU 1st Special Operations Brigade was destroyed close to Ogurtsovo (Kharkov region). In Kherson direction, up to 20 Ukrainian servicemen, two motor vehicles, and one D-30 howitzer have been neutralised by fire. Operational-Tactical and Army aviation, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces have engaged AFU manpower and hardware in 118 areas during the day. In addition, the 62nd ammunition arsenal of the Army has been hit near Bogdanovka (Kirovograd region). A command and observation post of the AFU 54th Mechanised Brigade was eliminated close to Fyodorovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic). Fighter aviation of Russian Aerospace Forces has shot down one Su-25 ground-attack aircraft of Ukrainian Air Force near Toretskoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic). Air defence forces have intercepted four HIMARS and Olkha MLRS projectiles during the day. In addition, 26 unmanned aerial vehicles were destroyed during the day near Berestovoye, Kodema, Novopetrikovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic), Samoylovka, Novoye (Zaporozhye region). In total, 480 airplanes and 250 helicopters, 7,217 unmanned aerial vehicles, 438 air defence missile systems, 12,206 tanks and other armoured combat vehicles, 1,156 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 6,571 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 13,573 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation. Russian Defence Ministry WtR LONDON Michael Gambon, the Irish-born actor knighted for his storied career on the stage and screen and who gained admiration from a new generation of moviegoers with his portrayal of Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore in six of the eight "Harry Potter" films, has died. He was 82. A statement by his family, issued by his publicist Thursday, said the actor died following "a bout of pneumonia." "We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon. Beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside," his family said. While the Potter role raised Gambon's international profile and found him a huge audience, he had long been recognized as one of Britain's leading actors. His work spanned TV, theater and radio, and he starred in dozens of films from "Gosford Park" and "The King's Speech" to the animated family movie "Paddington." He recently appeared in the Judy Garland biopic "Judy," released in 2019. Gambon was knighted for services to drama in 1998. The role of the much loved Professor Dumbledore was initially played by another Irish-born actor, Richard Harris. When Harris died in 2002, after two of the films in the franchise had been made, Gambon took over and played the part from "Harry Potter And The Prisoner of Azkaban" through to "Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows Part 2." He once acknowledged not having read any of J. K Rowling's best-selling books, arguing that it was safer to follow the script rather than be too influenced by the books. That didn't prevent him from embodying the spirit of the powerful wizard who fought against evil to protect his students. Fiona Shaw, who played Petunia Dursley in the "Harry Potter" series, recalled Gambon telling her how central acting was to his life. "He did once say to me in a car 'I know I go on a lot about this and that, but actually, in the end, there is only acting'," Shaw told the BBC on Thursday. "I think he was always pretending that he didn't take it seriously, but he took it profoundly seriously." Born in Dublin on Oct. 19, 1940, Gambon was raised in London and originally trained as an engineer, following in the footsteps of his father. He made his theater debut in a production of "Othello" in Dublin. In 1963 he got his first big break with a minor role in "Hamlet," the National Theatre Company's opening production, under the directorship of the legendary Laurence Olivier. Gambon soon became a distinguished stage actor and received critical acclaim for his leading performance in "Life of Galileo," directed by John Dexter. He was frequently nominated for awards and won the Laurence Olivier Award 3 times and the Critics' Circle Theatre Awards twice. A multi-talented actor, Gambon was also the recipient of four coveted British Academy of Film and Television Arts awards for his television work. He became a household name in Britain after his lead role in the 1986 BBC TV series "The Singing Detective," written by Dennis Potter and considered a classic of British television drama. Gambon won the BAFTA for best actor for the role. Gambon was versatile as an actor but once told the BBC of his preference for playing "villainous characters." He played gangster Eddie Temple in the British crime thriller "Layer Cake" a review of the film by the New York Times referred to Gambon as "reliably excellent" and a Satanic crime boss in Peter Greenaway's "The Cook, The Thief, His Wife and Her Lover." He also had a part as King George V in the 2010 drama film "The King's Speech." In 2015 he returned to the works of J.K. Rowling, taking a leading role in the TV adaptation of her non-Potter book "The Casual Vacancy." Gambon retired from the stage in 2015 after struggling to remember his lines in front of an audience due to his advancing age. He once told the Sunday Times Magazine: "It's a horrible thing to admit, but I can't do it. It breaks my heart." Gambon was always protective when it came to his private life. He married Anne Miller and they had one son, Fergus. He later had two sons with set designer Philippa Hart. Photos: Notable Deaths in 2023 Jimmy Buffett Tina Turner Tony Bennett Bob Barker Raquel Welch Lisa Marie Presley Jim Brown Harry Belafonte Sinead OConnor David Crosby Paul Reubens Lance Reddick Richard Belzer Mark Margolis Angus Cloud Clarence Avant Cindy Williams Alan Arkin Gordon Lightfoot Jeff Beck Bobby Caldwell Gary Rossington Wayne Shorter Jerry Springer Jacklyn Zeman John Beasley Michael Lerner Tom Sizemore Charles Kimbrough Julian Sands Cynthia Weil Sheldon Harnick Barrett Strong Willis Reed Tim McCarver Billy Packer The Iron Sheik Treat Williams Bill Richardson Daniel Ellsberg Pat Robertson Robert Blake Ted Kaczynski Lloyd Morrisett Chaim Topol Len Goodman Burt Bacharach Stella Stevens Barry Humphries Annie Wersching Dave Hollis Christine King Farris David Jude Jolicoeur Robbie Knievel Gina Lollobrigida Lynette Hardaway ("Diamond") Adam Rich Bobby Hull Charles White Robbie Robertson Ron Cephas Jones Samuel Joe Wurzelbacher Mohamed Al Fayed Jerry Richardson Sister Andre Tatjana Patitz Russell Banks Cardinal George Pell Ken Block Walter Cunningham Anton Walkes Pat Schroeder Seymour Stein Klaus Teuber Ginnie Newhart Vida Blue Martin Amis Doyle Brunson Hodding Carter III Ray Stevenson Astrud Gilberto Tori Bowie Silvio Berlusconi John Goodenough Coco Lee Jane Birkin William Friedkin Steve Harwell Michael McGrath Fernando Botero David McCallum Brooks Robinson Michael Gambon Dianne Feinstein Tim Wakefield Michael Chiarello Louise Gluck Suzanne Somers Piper Laurie The Portage Center for the Arts is welcoming the Michelle DuVall and Doug Brown Quartet this Saturday. The concert will be in the Zona Gale Theatre of the PCA, 301 E. Cook St., from 7:30 to 9 p.m. DuVall, vocalist, and Brown, guitarist and pianist, will be accompanied by a bass player and drummer. The duo have been playing jazz standards from the Great American Songbook together in the Madison area for more than 20 years, performing mostly at smaller outdoor patios and clubs, Brown said. We play straight-ahead jazz, said Brown. We have people who may not really love jazz music come up and tell us afterward that they really loved our show because we play great old tunes and keep things light and upbeat. DuVall, a native of Portage, said she is excited to be back in her hometown to play for the first time in years after spending the last eight years living in Vietnam. Im looking forward to seeing a lot of friends and family that I may not have seen for a while, said DuVall. So it will be a nice treat to be able to perform for them. Tickets for the concert are $20 and can be purchased in person, by phone, at the door 30 minutes before the performance, or on the Portage Center for the Arts website, portagecenterforthearts.com/tickets. Season ticket packages for six shows can also be purchased starting at $100 for adults and $50 for students. WHITEWATER The images would appear to be abstract splashes of paint. In reality, they are close-ups of the remnants of buildings ravaged by war in Ukraine. And through Oct. 20, the colorful photographs created by Iva Sidash are filling the spaces of a small gallery in the heart of this citys college campus. Sidash, 29, a native of Lviv, Ukraine, had no intention of becoming a war photographer. Her focus since 2019 had been on street photography, documentary work and, more recently, images for a Ukrainian news organization. But in February 2022, when Vladimir Putins Russian army invaded her country, Sidash, who initially thought she might volunteer as a driver or aid worker, began using her Fujifilm digital camera to help tell the world about her countrys plight. Her work has been part of international exhibits in France, Spain, Singapore, Germany and in her home countrys capital, Kyiv. But The Wall: Witness to the War in Ukraine, which opened Monday at Robertas Art Gallery at UW-Whitewater, is Sidashs first solo exhibit. The display of her 19 photographs and a television screen scrolling through dozens of broader images of the wars victims became even more pronounced on Tuesday when Sidash appeared in person at a reception to further explain her work and add further context to it. For me, each and every detail matters, Sidash said, during a question-and-answer period before a crowd of more than 60 people. I just felt a great need to do something more. Sidash was a finalist for the International Fujifilm Moment Street Photo awards in 2021, and her work has been recognized by the International Center for Photography in New York, where she is spending the next eight months in a fellowship designed to hone her photography skills. Her exhibit in Whitewater and her weeklong visit to southern Wisconsin came about after Craig Schreiner, who spent 16 years as a photojournalist for the Wisconsin State Journal and is now a photographer at UW-Whitewater, began following Sidashs work on Facebook prior to the war. Schreiner has spent more than 30 years documenting life in the Midwest and in 2013 wrote and took the photos for a book documenting a small family farm near Pine Bluff west of Madison. But when the war in Ukraine began, Schreiners keen eye was drawn first to a selfie Sidash had taken with her cellphone in which she was sheltering in a cellar with her cat, Tommy. A day later, she posted another photo, this one of two soldiers carrying a disabled person across train tracks at a station where Ukrainian refugees had gathered to escape the wars danger. Other images would follow. They would include funerals, hollowed-out buildings, destroyed cars and tanks rumbling down a road littered with debris. Others would show the innocence of children and the elderly, destroyed barns in the countryside. and cemeteries filled with Ukrainian flags, flowers and photos of those who have perished in the war. I think shes a high-level combination of photojournalist and an artist, Schreiner said. I wasnt expecting that Iva would be here, but she wanted to come because this was important for her. I think when you are trying to understand or trying to begin to understand something hard, like war or cancer or racism, it really helps to have direct contact with someone who has experienced that. I think that is going to be a great value, this experience, for a lot of people. Middleton visit Sidash arrived in Wisconsin on Sept. 22 and is staying with Schreiner and his wife, Lisa, at their home in Middleton. Besides the opening reception, Sidash was the focus of a talk on Monday at UW-Whitewater by Abigail Lewis, a University of Notre Dame historian who researches art and visual culture during times of war. Sidash was also scheduled to speak Thursday afternoon at UW-Madisons Center for Russia, East Europe and Central Asia and spent Wednesday giving presentations to art and social studies students at Janesville Craig and Parker high schools. The principal donor for Sidashs exhibit and travel expenses to Wisconsin is Suzanne Van Galder, whose husbands family founded a Janesville bus company in 1947. Suzanne is a retired art teacher and a UW-Whitewater graduate, and her son is an art teacher at Parker High School. I was so impressed with her knowledge of photography, and not just her working the camera, but what she sees with her camera, Van Galder said Tuesday as she surveyed the colorful images in the gallery. These almost look like paintings, but theyre actually parts of beat-up, bombed-out walls. Its spectacular the way she gets perspective with the color juxtaposition. Through art and photography you can create a story of your history, and thats what shes doing. A calling Sidash is a graduate of Lviv Polytechnic National University and thought she would have a career in project management. But photography became her calling. Her work has been published in the Financial Times of London, Fisheye magazine in France and Der Spiegel in Germany. Her photographs are among those that help illustrate a book of Ukrainian poetry that tells the story of the wars devastating effect on the country. And now the international audience of Sidashs work can include students at UW-Whitewater, some of whom helped develop the exhibit. They downloaded, edited and mounted Sidashs photos onto rectangular pieces of foam core for display in the 1,000-square-foot gallery that was founded in 2008. The poster to promote the exhibit was designed by a student, and students worked with gallery staff to set up the exhibit. On Tuesday, it was Angela Malo, a student director of the gallery, who interviewed Sidash during the reception and led a question-and-answer period with the audience during which Sidash explained how in spring 2022 she began focusing on walls of residential buildings in North Saltivka, an area located in the northeastern region of Kharkiv in eastern Ukraine. The project would then expand to the regions of Mykolaiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Kyiv and Donetsk. Everybody who touched those photos cared about them, Schreiner said. When you have an experience like that, its something you remember for a long time. Private moments Sidashs first image of a wall came from a driveway of a high-rise building heavily damaged by Russian shelling. Moments later, she went inside to explore what remained of apartments. There was no one around and she felt conflicted about being inside homes where beds remained unmade, dishes were left on tables and there were family photographs of people she didnt know. She wondered about their well-being and continues to struggle with her own emotions as she tries to document a conflict that has upended the lives of so many in her country. But she knows creating and sharing her work is a way to tell a story otherwise might not reach people, despite a world in which images can be shared internationally seconds after they have been produced. I hope my pictures are powerful, but its not necessarily only about my pictures but the power of photography, said Sidash, who wears a silver necklace with a pendant in the shape of Ukraine. Its the best of what I can do in this life. I want to be useful and do something for my country. I couldnt stay aside. Photography is this tool that helps me do something. Photos: Iva Sidash and her images from Ukraine 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. We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form Calling all Jessica Fletcher, Hercule Poirot and Sherlock Holmes wannabes. Heres your chance to solve a crime for fun during an interactive murder mystery weekend at a resort or inn. Typically, a murder takes place on the first day and the search for the culprit follows, with hidden clues, plot twists and plenty of whodunit action. 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 These six lodgings offer murder mystery adventures for fall and winter this year and into 2024. Happy sleuthing! A Victorian castle is the setting for solving the case of whodunit at the Mohonk Mountain House in New York. Mohonk Mountain House 1. Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz, New York The self-proclaimed birthplace of murder mystery weekends, this sprawling resort in New Yorks scenic Hudson Valley has hosted an annual mystery weekend for 47 years. With an 1869 Victorian castle as the perfect backdrop, performers act out each mystery scene in front of you, and you or your team must solve the dastardly crime. Dates: March 1-3, 2024 Rates: Start at $1,118 per night, double occupancy, all-inclusive, plus a $30-per-person program fee Guests can enjoy hors doeuvres and participate in murder mystery parties at New Mexicos Vermejo. Jenn Judge 2. Vermejo, a Ted Turner Reserve, Raton, New Mexico Vermejos turn-of-the-century Casa Grande manor becomes the setting for the 1920s-style Murder Mystery Party staged here. Dress in your best Gatsby finery and enjoy period music, hors doeuvres and drinks. Then participate in an evening of intrigue and murder as you use character booklets to role-play with the detective and other guests to uncover the motive and murderer. Its like a Clue board game come to life. Date: Dec. 29, 2023 Rates: Start at $1,591 per night, double occupancy, all-inclusive, with a two-night minimum; fee includes the party Interactive murder mystery weekends are held at the historic Mimslyn Inn in Virginia. Alexandre Tziripouloff / Alamy Stock Photo 3. The Mimslyn Inn, Luray, Virginia Created by the legendary Keith OLeary and Margo Morrison, masterminds of the genre, the Murder Mystery Weekend thrills guests at this historic Shenandoah Valley inn. Start with a welcome reception on Friday night, when someone is murdered. Prevent the perp from getting away by following the tantalizing clues provided during Saturdays meals. End with the announcement of the mysterys solution and the awarding of prizes at Sunday brunch. Dates: Jan. 19-21, 2024 Rates: $443 per person, double occupancy, for two nights, including the Friday welcome reception, three meals on Saturday, brunch on Sunday, and all taxes and gratuities Lancang-Mekong Cooperation project uplifts skills for Myanmar's production workers Xinhua) 10:47, September 28, 2023 YANGON, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Skills development program under the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Special Fund (LMCSF) 2021 helped production workers greatly improve skills and capabilities in Myanmar, local media reported on Wednesday. With the skills-oriented uplifting nature, the LMC-initiated projects are welcomed in Myanmar since they promote competitive advantages of the country in the related sectors in the region, said participants in a skills development seminar for the manufacturing sector under the LMCSF 2021, which was held in Yangon. "Having skillful laborers is a key for the employment competitiveness in the region. Without skills and without high productivity, the manufacturing expenditures will be costly. Then, we won't have a competitive advantage," Myint Soe, chairman of the Myanmar Garment Manufacturers Association (MGMA) told the state-owned newspaper Global New Light of Myanmar. A total of 1,000 laborers have upgraded their skills and half of them successfully secured jobs through the LMCSF 2021, the newspaper reported. During the seminar, Myint Soe urged stakeholders to continue supporting Myanmar via the LMC projects, sending Chinese technicians to train the locals in related sectors. Since the beginning of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation, over 100 projects have been implemented in Myanmar including various manufacturing industries, such as garment, footwear and leather bag production, textile manufacturing, food processing, milk and dairy products, and ceramic earthenware production. China-initiated LMCSF was officially launched in September 2016 to support small and medium-sized cooperation projects and to deliver tangible benefits for the people of the six LMC countries, namely China, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam and Thailand. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Instagram Celebrity The 'Wipe Me Down' rapper, who has been facing homophobia allegations over the years, makes it clear that he has 'nothing against' the LGBTQ community despite turning down the offer. Sep 28, 2023 AceShowbiz - Boosie Badazz (Lil Boosie) declared that supporting the LGBTQ community is "not what I believe in," so he did something to prove he's a man of his word. The "Wipe Me Down" spitter revealed in a recent interview that he once shut down a $250,000 offer to perform at an LGBTQ event. "I'm not real for money. In that case, I would just sell my soul for anything," the 40-year-old said. "I've been offered a quarter-million to go perform at an [LGBTQ] community event. Big money. I told them I have nothing against it at all. But that's not what I push and that's not what I believe in." "A lot of people get that [misunderstood] because they act like I hate them," Boosie continued. "No. My assistant is gay. This man deals with millions of dollars for me. I trust gay people more than regular people." Boosie has been facing homophobia allegations over the years, especially after taunting Lil Nas X multiple times on social media. He started attacking the "Old Town Road" hitmaker when defending DaBaby amid his Rolling Loud controversy in July 2021. Boosie, however, insisted that he isn't homophobic. "Everybody who speak the truth, they try to make you seem crazy," he said on Math Hoffa's "My Expert Opinion" podcast. "Anything I speak on, I feel deeply that way. Everything I speak, I stand on it. It's just that the world took it out of context, and said that I have something against those people, when I don't." "People have to understand that it's not the same stroke for the same folk. My f**kin' assistant manager is gay as f**k. Like, bruh. I don't know where people get that from. He understands me, he know I don't have any ill will towards those people. He deals with money, he deals with business. It ain't never looked at like that," the emcee continued. "I trust gay people more than I trust regular people." You can share this post! Instagram Celebrity In a new interview, the 'Dynasty' star opens up on her fear of needles as she insists she has never gone under the knife in order to maintain her youthful look. Sep 28, 2023 AceShowbiz - Joan Collins claims she's never had plastic surgery. The 90-year-old "Dynasty" actress claimed despite her long career in Hollywood where nips and tucks are rampant, her fear of needles has stopped her getting any cosmetic procedures. "I've had nothing done. I couldn't do all that. First of all, I'm needle-phobic. It was my mother who told me to moisturise and use night cream," she told The Guardian. She added she stays out of the sun to achieve her youthful glow and said she advises her two daughters Tara Newley, 59, and Katyana Kass, 51, to follow her lead. But Joan did admit to trying Botox in a 2012 interview with Glamour magazine, telling the publication at the time, "I had it once in my forehead and it hurt like hell." She added, "Plus, you see all these plastic surgery nightmares these days. I have girlfriends who've had Botox and been left with lumps in their faces. And the lips, don't even get me started." Asked if she's offended when people assume she's had any work done, the actress said, "No, no. But you know what they say about plastic surgery, don't you? It's the plain woman's revenge. And the truth is I've always taken very good care of my skin, and always, always worn make-up." In April 2022, Joan hit back at fellow actress Jane Seymour, 72, after she told the Daily Express, "I am unusual in Hollywood in not having work done. I only know one other actress who hasn't had it - though she might have now!" "I felt as an actress, I needed to have all the moving parts moving. And I'm at the point in life where it's not all about looking perfect - it's about playing a character." Joan responded, "I am another #actress in #hollywood who hasn't had any 'work' done @janeseymour - there's many of us! @dailyexpress." Joan has also slammed the Kardashian family over their plastic surgeries. She said in her 2021 book "My Unapologetic Diaries", "Kris Jenner, the mother, is a good friend of mine. And I don't want to be rude about her children, but there's an awful lot of surgery there and I've talked to my friends about it, as I'm sure you have, the bottoms, the tiny waists." You can share this post! CBS Music The Boss thanks fans for the outpouring of love and support as he has decided to postpone the reminder of his 2023 tour dates while he's battling peptic ulcer disease. Sep 28, 2023 AceShowbiz - Bruce Springsteen has delayed all of his remaining 2023 concerts as he recovers from peptic ulcer disease. The 74-year-old musician has revealed via social media that he's postponing his shows until next year, and he'll continue to receive treatment for the issue for the remainder of 2023. "Bruce Springsteen has continued to recover steadily from peptic ulcer disease over the past few weeks and will continue treatment through the rest of the year on doctor's advice. With this in mind, and out of an abundance of caution, all remaining 2023 tour dates for Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band will be postponed until 2024," a statement on his official Instagram page reads. "Rescheduled dates for each of the 2023 shows, including those postponed earlier this month, will be announced next week, all taking place at their originally scheduled venues." "When the new 2024 dates are announced, those unable to attend on the new date who purchased their tickets through official ticketing companies have 30 days to request a refund. All tickets for postponed performances will remain valid for the newly announced dates." Springsteen has thanked his fans for their support and he also pledged to return to the stage in 2024. He said, "Thanks to all my friends and fans for your good wishes, encouragement, and support. I'm on the mend and can't wait to see you all next year." Springsteen was actually scheduled to play a further 14 shows in Canada and the US up until December 12. However, the chart-topping star will now focus his attention on his recovery from peptic ulcer disease. You can share this post! Instagram Celebrity The former James Bond actor hails his wife Keely Shaye Smith as she turns 60 years old and gives her a huge bouquet of flowers consisting of 60 red roses. Sep 28, 2023 AceShowbiz - Pierce Brosnan celebrated his wife Keely Shaye Smith's 60th birthday by showering her with 60 red roses. The James Bond star, 70, marked his 22nd wedding anniversary with actress Keely, 60, last month and on Tuesday, September 26 paid tribute to her again with the massive bouquet of flowers. "Sixty roses for my brown eyed girl on her 60th birthday. Forever happy and blessed was I to be sitting there when you walked around the corner early one morning in Cabo San Lucas @keelyshayebrosnan," the actor said in a caption alongside a picture of him with his arm around Keely. Keely marked their anniversary in August by sharing a post on Instagram of the pair's nuptials in Ireland. She said on August 5 on the site, "Happy Anniversary @piercebrosnanofficial. Thank you for always being up for this adventure called life." Keely also included in her caption their wedding date, as well as April 8, 1994 - the day they met. She also marked Pierce's 70th birthday in May with a photo of the star actor standing in front of a flower-filled field, captioning it, "Happy Birthday my darling @piercebrosnanofficial. Wishing you a blessed, bountiful and adventurous new trip around the sun. It's not how old you are it's how bold you are in life. I love you with all my heart." After marrying in 2001, the couple had two children - Dylan, 26, and 22-year-old Paris. Pierce is also a dad to three children he shared with his first wife, Australian actress Cassandra Harris, who died from cancer aged 43 in 1991. Dylan told GQ in 2022 about his dad, "I always thought he had a lot of friends, growing up because people would come up to him in the street, and he (would) talk to everyone for a really long time." He added about his idyllic childhood, "(We were) a bunch of kids running around a forest, looking for something to do, riding bicycles down the street, going to caves and swimming and surfing and stuff." You can share this post! Cover Images/JOHN NACION Celebrity While talking about her grief over her son's death, Lisa Cloud opens up on her final exchange with the late 'Euphoria' actor the night before she found him lifeless in his bedroom. Sep 28, 2023 AceShowbiz - Angus Cloud's devastated mum has divulged his final words were, "I love you, mama - you're the best." The "Euphoria" actor passed away on July 31 from an accidental overdose aged 25 at his family home in Oakland, California, and his mother Lisa Cloud has now revealed their final exchange hours before she found him dead. "I love you, mama - you're the best. I'll see you in the morning," she told People Angus told her when she was on her way to bed. When Lisa went to check on Angus the next morning, she found him slumped over his bedroom desk. She admitted that wasn't out of the ordinary as he regularly fell asleep during his desk-bound art sessions, but she felt something was wrong as she approached him. Lisa added, "I started shaking him and screaming. I pushed him hard, and he fell on the floor. I tried to resuscitate him - mouth to mouth - and I was compressing him. I was screaming for my neighbour because I didn't want to leave him and call 911, and I just kept at it until they took him away. I miss him so much. He was the love of my life." In a Facebook post in August, Lisa thanked friends for their "love for my family at this shattered time" and added Angus' final day was "joyful." She said, "(Angus) was reorganising his room and placing items around the house with intent to stay a while in the home he loved." "He spoke of his intent to help provide for his sisters at college, and also help his mom emotionally and financially. He did not intend to end his life. It's abundantly clear that he did not intend to check out of this world. His struggles were real. He gave and received so much love and support to and from his tribe." The Alameda County coroner said Angus suffered acute intoxication from a combination of drugs, including fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine and benzodiazepine. In the weeks leading up to his death, the actor - who played drug dealer Fezco in "Euphoria" alongside his friend Zendaya Coleman - was grieving the loss of his dad Conor Hickey, who died from cancer two months earlier. His friends revealed he was so grief-stricken he was too "traumatised" to scatter his father's ashes at a private ceremony. You can share this post! Instagram TV The final results show features all eleven finalists taking the stage to entertain the audience with special performances from 30 Seconds to Mars, Jason Derulo, Leona Lewis, Jon Batiste and season 17 winners The Mayyas. Sep 28, 2023 AceShowbiz - "America's Got Talent" season 18 is coming to a close with one act being hailed the champion in a Wednesday, September 27 episode. In the final results show, all eleven finalists once again took the stage to entertain the crowd before the results of America's votes were unveiled. The 82nd Airborne Chorus kicked off the night with a chant rendition of the "Paratroopers' Song" before host Terry Crews introduced the recap of Tuesday night's performances. In a pre-recorded performances, Avantgardey performed with Chibi Unity, Mzansi Choir and the other Top 11 acts. Lavender Darcangelo teamed up with Diane Warren for emotional duet of "Only Love Can Hurt Like This" by Paloma Faith before Anna DeGuzman performed a few hand tricks. Jason Derulo then sang his songs "Take You Dancing" and his upcoming track "Hands on Me" while Murmuration created images from the bleachers behind him. In a hilarious pre-taped bit, Ahren Belisle trolled Simon Cowell and the other judges as well as Terry with things that Simon has said over the years. Mzansi Youth Choir team joined forces with Jon Batiste to sing his new single "Worship". In another pre-recorded mash-up, Chef Cat Cora hosted a cooking segment with Adrian Stoica and Hurricane. Putri Ariani was joined by Leona Lewis for a gorgeous rendition of Leona's song "Run". The Ramadhani Brothers introduced Chibi Unity's performance with 30 Seconds to Mars, who delivered their song "Stuck". Season 17 champions The Mayyas returned for a dazzling performance before Terry revealed the top five acts. They were the Ramadhani Brothers, Putri, Anna, Adrian and Hurricane as well as Murmuration. The Ramadhani Brothers ended up in the fifth place, Putri finished fourth and Murmuration placed third, leaving it between Anna and Adrian and Hurricane to vie for the grand prize. Eventually, Adrian and Hurricane were announced as the act that got the most votes overnight. They bagged the $1 million prize and coveted Vegas residency. You can share this post! HBO TV Foster's Liz Danvers continues to butt heads with Evangeline Navarro's Reis as the two detectives are forced to work together to solve a murder case in Alaska. Sep 28, 2023 AceShowbiz - Things get heated between Jodie Foster and Evangeline Navarro in the new trailer for "True Detective: Night Country". Their characters continue to butt heads in the latest sneak-peek video as Foster's Liz Danvers seemingly keeps a secret from her fellow detective in a murder investigation. The new trailer highlights the "weird" circumstances surrounding the deaths of several people in Alaska. "We've got five bodies frozen into a giant block of flesh, and no answers," Danvers says after the harrowing discovery. "I've seen that before...Years ago," Navarro's Reis says at another point in the video as she's shown a picture of the murder scene. "Dead bodies, weird circumstances," another points out. Reis later grows frustrated as she's seen yelling at a fellow detective, "Tell me why you withheld information from a murder investigation." According to the official logline of the fourth season, "When the long winter night falls in Ennis, Alaska, the eight men who operate the Tsalal Arctic Research Station vanish without a trace. To solve the case, Detectives Liz Danvers (Foster) and Evangeline Navarro (Reis) will have to confront the darkness they carry in themselves, and dig into the haunted truths that lie buried under the eternal ice." The cast also includes Finn Bennett, Fiona Shaw, Christopher Eccleston, Isabella Star LaBlanc and John Hawkes. Anna Lambe, Aka Niviana, June Thiele, Diane Benson and Joel D. Montgrand join the new season of the anthology series as guest stars. Along with the new trailer, HBO Max set the premiere date for "True Detective: Night Country". The six-episode series is set to arrive on January 14, 2024 after originally slated for release in 2023. In an appearance at the Code Conference today, Casey Bloys, chairman and CEO of HBO and Max Content, confirmed that the delay was due to the strikes. "We put it in January because I wanted to make sure that we had Issa [Lopez] and Jodie Foster available to talk about it," he explained. You can share this post! USA Network TV The Mike Ross depicter on the legal drama series issues an apology for sharing never-before-seen snaps of the Duchess of Sussex posing sensually in character as paralegal Rachel Zane. Sep 29, 2023 AceShowbiz - Patrick J. Adams has regretted his recent social media posts. The "Suits" actor said he's "incredibly sorry" for posting throwback pictures of his co-star Meghan Markle amid the SAG-AFTRA strike. The 42-year-old expressed his remorse via Instagram Story on Wednesday, September 27. "The last couple of days I foolishly and thoughtlessly let a trip down Suits memory lane distract me from the very real and ongoing fight everyone in @sagaftra continues to wage in its effort to win our membership realistic 21st century compensation and protections," he declared. "It was an embarrassing oversight for which I'm incredibly sorry," the former USA Network star, who's known for portraying Mike Ross on the legal drama, continued. "So grateful to those who gently and swiftly course-corrected me here and I look forward to continuing the fight in the days and weeks ahead. #sagaftrastrong." Patrick's apology statement arrived after he unleashed never-before-seen snaps of Meghan posing sensually in character as paralegal Rachel Zane. In one image, which has since been deleted, the Duchess of Sussex was seen lying upside down wearing a white blouse and brown pencil skirt with her barefoot up in the air as she posed beside co-star Sarah Rafferty, who played Donna Paulsen. According to a FAQ page for SAG-AFTRA about the strike, members "cannot promote struck work or struck companies on social media." Meanwhile, influencers "should refrain from posting on social media about any struck work regardless of whether they are posting organically or in a paid capacity." You can share this post! Instagram Celebrity Having been asked by a number of online users whether he was the guy in the femcee's recent social media post, the 'Wipe Me Down' rapper takes to social media to set the record straight. Sep 29, 2023 AceShowbiz - Boosie Badazz (Lil Boosie) was annoyed by rumors suggesting he was Sexyy Red's boyfriend. Having been asked by a number of online users whether he was the guy in the femcee's recent social media post, the "Wipe Me Down" rapper took to social media to shut down the chatter. "IM BLOCKING ALL U MFS N MY DAM ASKING IS THAT ME ON DA PICTURE WITH SEXY RED," the 41-year-old fumed on X, formerly Twitter. "YAll SEE THAT AINT MY ANKLE SIZE R COLOR !! FIND SOMEONE ELSE TO PLAY WITH. IM ON VACATION WITH MY DAUGHTER." The said photo was shared by Sexyy on Wednesday, September 27. In the snap, she could be seen lying in bed with a then-unidentified man. The image only showed their legs, with the man sporting an ankle brace indicating he's on house arrest. The 25-year-old raptress was seemingly unapologetic about getting intimate with a person who has a criminal record, writing in the caption, "I like f*kin wit drillaz dread head killaz." Her post left her fans speculating about who the mystery man was. It didn't take long to find the answer though. Atlanta rapper WuDeuce went live on Instagram, filming the St. Louis native who was sleeping as he was smoking. He then bragged about their supposed romp as he said to the camera, "I put s**t down up." Social media users were not happy that WuDeuce exposed his relationship with Sexyy like that. Following his livestream, people chastised him for filming the "SkeeYee" hitmaker sleeping likely without her consent. "N***as stay sleeping and telling," one person commented on a repost of the video on The Neighborhood Talk's Instagram account. Another baffled user wrote, "now why would he put my girl on camera." You can share this post! Warner Bros. Pictures Celebrity The actor who played Albus Dumbledore in the 'Harry Potter' franchise is confirmed by his loved ones to have died amid hospitalization due to a bout of pneumonia. Sep 28, 2023 AceShowbiz - Sir Michael Gambon has passed away. The "Harry Potter" actor died in hospital at the age of 82 with his family by his side after contracting pneumonia, his wife Lady Anne Gambon and son Fergus have announced. "We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon. Beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia. Michael was 82. We ask that you respect our privacy at this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love," a statement issued on behalf of the family said. Michael - who also had two sons with Philippa Hart, Will, 15, and 13-year-old Tom - was best known for playing Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore in a number of "Harry Potter" movies, a role he took on following the death of Richard Harris. On the small screen, he was known for his role as the French detective Jules Maigret in the ITV series "Maigret", and as the titular character in "The Singing Detective". He began his career over 60 years ago and was one of the original members of the Royal National Theatre alongside the late Laurence Olivier. Over the years, Michael won three Olivier Awards, for Best Actor in "A View From the Bridge" in 1988 and Best Comedy performance in both 1986 and 1990, for "A Chorus of Disapproval" and "Man of the Moment" respectively. He also scooped the Best Actor BAFTA four times, for "The Singing Detective" in 1987, "Wives and Daughters", and then three years running between 2000 and 2002 for "Wives and Daughters", "Longitude", and "Perfect Strangers". In 2014, Michael admitted he had stopped working in the theatre because of his memory issues. He said, "It's a horrible thing to admit, but I can't do it. It breaks my heart." Told his memory still seems quite sharp, he added, "Yes. But it's when the script's in front of me and it takes me forever to learn it. It's frightening." You can share this post! Leading parenting community and babycare D2C brand BabyChakra, a part of the content-to-commerce conglomerate Good Glamm Group, is thrilled to announce a new investment by actor and UN Goodwill Ambassador Dia Mirza. Dia Mirza's decision to invest in BabyChakra stems from her deep belief that Indian mothers and children deserve nothing less than the finest, non-toxic, and superior care. As part of her role, Dia will guide BabyChakra in incorporating sustainable and clean care principles into their product ranges. Working in collaboration with Dia, BabyChakra will create products specifically tailored to meet the evolving needs of mothers. These products will be made using natural, dermatologically tested, toxin-free, and allergen-free ingredients, while adhering to the highest global safety standards. In addition, Dia will engage closely with the 30 million+ mothers community of Good Community division, fostering connections among mothers, sharing personal stories of motherhood, understanding their transformations, and collaborating with doctors and care practitioners to provide comprehensive care to mothers and children across the country. Speaking on the announcement, Naiyya Saggi, Group Co-founder, Good Glamm Group & CEO, Good Community, commented, "We are delighted to have Dia Mirza join us on this incredible journey. Her passion for sustainable and clean care aligns perfectly with our vision of providing the safest and best possible care for mothers and babies. Dia has been an inspiring and globally respected advocate of all things good, clean label and sustainable and reflects the aspirations of mothers across India for something exponentially better for themselves , their families and the planet. All values that are deeply rooted in the BabyChakra philosophy. We are excited to work closely with Dia as we grow out our range of products and solutions for families across India. We are thrilled to welcome Dia Mirza as an investor in BabyChakra, our leading parenting community and babycare DTC brand. Dia's passion for sustainable and clean care aligns perfectly with our vision of providing the safest and best possible care for mothers and babies. We are excited to work closely with Dia as we grow our range of products and solutions for families across India. added Sukhleen Aneja, CEO, Good Brands Co, Good Glamm Group Actor & UN Goodwill Ambassador Dia Mirza added, "As a new mother, I have experienced the transformative journey of motherhood first-hand and am extremely excited to partner with BabyChakra: one of the first communities to recognise the ever-changing needs of mothers and facilitate authentic dialogues amongst mothers, doctors and experts on the evolving narrative of care for todays parents. I deeply resonate with BabyChakras community first mission to co-create the safest, cleanest label care for children. The success of the products is a testimony to the approach of building with the community at its heart. I am also inspired by the transparency that BabyChakra has fostered in India for the first time through its ground-breaking National Label Literacy campaign: Label Padho Moms. I will be closely working with the teams at BabyChakra to further champion the voice of sustainable care for families. BabyChakra is confident that their collaboration with Dia Mirza will further enhance their commitment to offering exceptional babycare products and empowering mothers with the knowledge and support they need. Adgully has been turning the spotlight on the entrepreneurs who fought against all odds to bring their dreams to fruition in our special series START-UP STARS. We at Adgully wholeheartedly support the Vocal for Local movement and have been featuring numerous local/ homegrown businesses, brands, and Apps in the country launched in the last few years. Mul Cosmetics is a brand that seamlessly blends the beauty of nature with the pinnacle of certified organic haircare and skincare. With a firm foundation in ancient beauty practices and a dedication to modern scientific rigor, Mul Cosmetics offers clinically proven formulas that stand as a testament to their unwavering commitment to customer well-being. Deeply rooted in the cultural history of the subcontinent, Mul Cosmetics celebrates the age-old wisdom that has been handed down through the generations. They carefully deliberate over the abundant flora and fauna available, crafting potent and effective natural concoctions that have withstood the test of time. In conversation with Adgully, Pooja Parker, Founder, Mul Secrets, speaks about how Mul Secrets ensure that every individual can partake in the goodness that surrounds them. She shares about the transformative journey of Mul Secrets along with the key challenges she had to face while building up this brand. What inspired the founding of your start-up, and what problem did you set out to solve? In a beauty market overflowing with external promises, Mul Secrets Wellness emerged as a necessity. After enduring a personal battle with adult acne for three years, I discovered the true key to skin health lies within. Our mission is to empower others with a holistic approach to their beauty concerns. Were committed to clean and Ayurveda based solutions that nurture your skin from the inside out. Could you provide an overview of your product/ service and its unique features or benefits? At Mul Secrets, we cater to three core skincare concerns: Acne, Hydration, and Anti-Aging. Our innovative approach pairs an edible nutrition powder with an enriching mask for a holistic inside-out healing experience. What sets us apart is the authenticity of our ingredients. Unlike common white powders filled with glucose, our nutrition drink powders are crafted from real herbs & fruits, solar dried-dried, and carefully blended. Were proud to offer products with no preservatives or chemicals. When you prepare our nutrition drink, youll witness actual herbs and saffron floating in your glassan unmistakable testament to our commitment to purity and potency. How does your start-up differentiate itself from competitors in the market? In a sea of external beauty products, Mul Secrets stands apart as a wellness-focused skincare brand. We blend ancient wisdom with modern science, acknowledging that skincare is a holistic venture involving both external and internal factors. Our mission is to offer comprehensive skincare solutions that heal from within and enhance your outer beauty. Our unique approach combines 90% Ayurveda with 10% active ingredients, ensuring faster and more effective targeting of your specific concerns. What milestones has your company achieved so far, and what are your future growth plans? Were thrilled by the incredible response that weve received in such a short time, with many repeat customers already. This speaks volumes about the trust and satisfaction our brand offers. Looking ahead, were excited to expand our product categories and continue providing top-quality solutions for a wider range of concerns. Additionally, were planning to increase our offline presence, making it even easier for people to access and experience the benefits of our holistic skincare approach. How has the start-up venture evolved since its inception, and what challenges have you overcome along the way? Its been quite a journey. I began crafting this brand back in 2020, investing three years in perfecting our formulations through extensive trials and testing. My personal experience was integral in shaping our products, as I witnessed their transformative effects firsthand. Our current challenge lies in the crowded beauty market, where establishing a meaningful audience connection can be a formidable task. However, our commitment to authenticity, holistic wellness, and quality sets us apart, and were determined to navigate this landscape to reach those who can benefit from our unique approach. How does your start-up contribute to the industry or community you operate in? Mul Secrets enriches the skincare industry by blending locally sourced Ayurvedic herbs with modern science, promoting holistic well-being. Our dedication to authentic ingredients and sustainable practices supports local communities in India. We educate and empower our audience, fostering a sense of belonging, and our expansion plans create job opportunities, further benefiting the local economy. What problem does your start-up solve? Mul Secrets tackles the prevalent issue of inadequate skincare solutions in an oversaturated beauty market. By harnessing the power of ancient Ayurvedic herbs like Arjuna bark, saffron, and Manjistha, we offer holistic, effective remedies. Our products are designed to not only enhance external beauty, but also to promote overall health and well-being, highlighting the significance of these potent ingredients in the pursuit of radiant skin and inner balance. How much funding has the company raised, and from which investors? We are bootstrapped as of now. Who are your target customers, and how are you acquiring them? Mul Secrets offers a range of age-specific skincare kits: Revive Acne Combo Pack (16-30): Targets puberty and adult acne. Hydrate Combo Pack (All Ages): Provides essential hydration for everyone. Rejuvenate Combo Pack (35 & Above): Focuses on anti-aging benefits. Our tailored kits address unique skincare needs at different life stages, promoting healthier skin at any age. What are the major challenges that the company faces currently? The major challenges facing Mul Secrets Wellness include intense competition in the skincare industry, the need to continually educate customers about their holistic approach. Additionally, expanding offline presence to reach a broader audience. What is the background and expertise of the founding team? The founders and team members are specialists in Marketing and Strategy, with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in developing effective product marketing campaigns and strategies, both online and offline. Their core strengths lie in product development, where they work to create and refine products to meet market demand, and product marketing, where they excel in promoting and positioning products to maximise their reach and impact. Clean Skincare has been a shared passion for our co-founders. With the aim to address the misconceptions and prejudices about India and its standards, their mission has been to promote the depth and wisdom of Indian skincare practices through local businesses. Mul Secrets is their platform to showcase these ancient secrets to the world. What is the companys growth plan and vision for the future? Our mission is to empower people to lead healthier lives and bring cleaner, more sustainable products into every home. How does the company measure success, and what are its key performance indicators (KPIs)? LS Digital, a new-age independent digital marketing transformation group, has successfully created two widely-viewed short films for Tilda Basmati Rice, an Ebro Foods brand, celebrating the occasion of Onam and Ganesh Chaturthi with videos likening its diverse range of rice varieties with Indias rich multi-cultural heritage. LS Digital was instrumental in scripting both films and handled the social media mandate for Tilda as well. The company adopted the 1-minute approach for both films. The short videos, which went live on Instagram and YouTube, have received a lot of attention and positive comments. The Happy Onam clip crossed 2 million views while the Ganesh Chaturthi video has already been watched more than 1 million times. #YOUTUBE_https://youtu.be/TK5ILAdh63Q?si=72_y0ShAOsV3aNo9 Puneet Kapoor, Head of Marketing at Ebro India, shared, Our Onam and Ganesh Chaturthi films are a heart-warming celebration of love, family, and the joy of giving. They beautifully capture the spirit of festivities, reminding us that even the simplest gestures can create unforgettable moments. We always believe in celebrating diversity and Tilda Basmati Rice offers an array of rice that caters to each region and is part of their every celebration. Join us in this cinematic journey that reaffirms the power of love and instigate cultural diversity. The Happy Onam video presents a heart-warming short film that intertwines the magic of the festival with a creative Two States concept. The one-minute production is a vibrant depiction of culinary passion and unity, bringing the significance of thoughtful gestures and gender diversity within households to the fore. It introduces viewers to a couple and the efforts the husband takes in making his wifes Onam a memorable one. With a heart full of love and a dash of determination, the husband embarks on a culinary journeywith Tilda Basmati Riceto prepare the quintessential Payasam, a traditional Onam delicacy. The film showcases the vibrant colours and tantalizing flavours of the Onam Sadhya, with each dish meticulously recreated to reflect the authenticity of the traditional meal. From the vivid hues of the Pookalam (floral carpet) to the delicious Payasam, the film captures the true essence of the festival. The film invites audiences to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Onam and experience the journey of love, effort, and culinary passion. As the film hits the digital medium, families and couples are encouraged to share in the beautiful message of the film that love expressed through thoughtful actions can truly make any moment special. Nishant Patil, ECD & AVP 2, Design at LS Digital, added, Food and festivals bring people together and thats what we played on. Tilda being a rice brand was a perfect fit for this campaign. In the Onam film, we took this opportunity to showcase todays contemporary society where men are equally inclined towards cooking as women have been. After all, why should only women do the cooking always? Overall, the campaign not only promulgates the brand Tilda but also gives out a positive message to society by changing stereotypes of home cooking. Now, with the Ganesh Chaturthi film, we have showcased how Tilda beautifully strengthens the unique bond between a mother-in-law and a daughter-in-law and brings them closer. In the Ganesh Chaturthi film, Tilda Basmati Rice presents an endearing tale of tradition, love and togetherness through the lens of a nurturing mother-in-law and a daughter-in-law who is dearly missing her mother. Showcasing how the festival is a time where families come together and create lasting memories, Tilda Basmati Rice takes the celebration a step further this year by bringing an account of two generationsa caring mother-in-law and a homesick daughter-in-lawcoming together to forge new memories. The film captures the true emotions, coupled with Ukadiche Modaks, the quintessential steamed, petal-shaped dumplingsmade with Tilda Basmati Rice doughacting as the common thread and a symbol of tradition, quality, and nourishment that has been passed down through generations. Dipshika Ravi, ECD & AVP 2, Creative & Social at LS Digital, expressed, A celebration without family is always incomplete, and during any festive occasion, a traditional feast holds immense significance. As a brand that emphasizes diversity through its range of rice varieties, it was essential for us to construct a compelling narrative for these occasions. We drew a parallel between Tilda rice and relationships, recognizing that a single secret ingredient love adds flavour to both food and cherished connections. Tilda isnt just about rice; its about fostering connections and enhancing experiences, precisely the essence we aimed to capture in the films. The Tilda Basmati Rice films conquers hearts with its charming narrative. In both short films, Tilda Basmati Rice is a unifying factor, connecting the past, present, and future of the family. It reminds everyone about the beauty in celebrating traditions and unity amidst the evolving dynamics of relationships. Through both films, Tilda Basmati Rice celebrates the love that finds its way to the heart of every household, rekindling the spirit of festivities and inspiring everyone to embrace a future of togetherness. Graham Carter, Managing Director at Ebro India, added, As a proud purveyor of the finest quality rice, our brand understands the integral role food plays in bringing people together. Our films showcase the heart-warming journey of preparing a traditional Onam Sadhya and Modaks, reminding us of the cultural significance of rice in this magnificent feast. Were thrilled to support these films as they beautifully portray love, dedication, and the essential role of rice in making your festival celebrations unforgettable. The Happy Onam and Ganesh Chaturthi films were directed by Pratap Dhulap and executed by the production house, We The People Films. Visa (NYSE: V), the global leader in digital payments, today introduced a pioneering initiative that enables consumers to invest in mutual funds using their Visa debit cards. Launched in partnership with Razorpay, the service is now available to customers of Federal Bank and ICICI Bank. With the Indian mutual fund industrys average assets under management valued at Rs. 46.94 trillion for August 20231, a sixfold increase in 10 years, this innovative move will allow retail investors to enjoy the convenience, safety, and security of using their debit cards for mutual fund investments. By using their Visa debit card for investing in mutual funds, consumers can now set and modify their own transaction limits. Also, customers can see all their SIPs linked to their debit card alongside other recurring payments, by logging into their banks subscription management portals. In addition to an evolved dispute resolution mechanism offered by banks on Visa cards, the benefits program offered by banks for their card consumers makes it a rewarding alternative to current payment methods. "We are most excited to announce that Visa cardholders can now use their debit cards to invest in mutual funds. Starting with Federal Bank and ICICI Bank debit cards, this service will soon be available to more Visa cardholders in India. In a country with over 69 million mutual fund SIP accounts[1], we believe debit card payments with its inherent benefits offer a strong alternative to current payment methods, helping build investor trust and ensuring they can invest with ease and confidence, said Ramakrishnan Gopalan, Head of Products and Solutions, India and South Asia, Visa. Arif Khan, Chief Innovation Office, Razorpay said, We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Visa, introducing Debit Cards as an innovative payment method for Investments. This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to leveraging technology for seamless solutions. With Debit Cards, customers can conveniently initiate investments, significantly improving success rates for TPV-driven payment flows by 60-80%. We're proud to launch this innovation with Federal Bank and ICICI Bank, democratizing investment accessibility and setting new benchmarks, aligning with Visa's trusted industry leadership." We are very happy to be one of the forerunners in this new and ambitious project of using Debits Cards for investing into Mutual Funds in collaboration with Visa. Mutual funds offer diversification, liquidity and professional management making it a common choice for individuals looking to invest into the financial markets. We believe that this product will add value to our customers both in terms of security and convenience, thus ensuring greater confidence for them to Invest into Funds of their choice, said Chitrabhanu K G, Country Head Retail Assets and Cards, Federal Bank. Bijith Bhaskar, Head Cards, Digital Payments & Consumer Finance, ICICI Bank, said We are delighted to partner with Visa in this initiative. We have partnered with Visa and Razorpay to implement validation check to help mutual funds ensure that the source of funds belong to the investor, in line with the regulator guidelines. With this offering, crores of ICICI Bank debit card customers will be able to invest in mutual funds using their debit cards in a secure and simple manner. On the website or app of the fund house, the customer can select a mutual fund and then choose debit cards as the payment option and proceed to checkout along the customer journey. The process of mutual fund payments with a debit card remains the same, but with additional checks and balances. This functionality is live with leading fund houses and distributors and customers can invest in lumpsum or start SIPs using their Visa debit cards. If the investment is being set up for recurring payments like SIPs, the customer simply needs to enable recurring payments. In line with regulatory guidelines, the card details are validated by the aggregator and issuer against the account that is funding the investment, and that it indeed belongs to the investor. Cardholders will receive a pre-debit notification before the next payment is auto-debited from their accounts. Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland Bern, 28.09.2023 - Following its criminal investigation, the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland (OAG) on 28 September 2023 filed its indictment in the Federal Criminal Court (FCC) against Gulnara Karimova, daughter of the former President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Islam Karimov, and the former general director of the Uzbek subsidiary of a Russian telecommunications company. The two accused are in particular alleged to have participated in a criminal organisation that operated in various countries, including Switzerland. The charges cover the period from 2005 to 2013 and constitute participation in a criminal organisation (Art. 260ter Swiss Criminal Code (SCC)), money laundering (Art. 305bis SCC), acceptance of bribes as foreign public officials (Art. 322septies para. 2 SCC) and forgery of documents (Art. 251 SCC). The indictment filed in the Federal Criminal Court is based on the following circumstances: In response to reports of suspected money laundering (MROS reports), the OAG opened a criminal investigation in July 2012 into Gulnara Karimovas personal assistant in connection with forgery of documents (Art. 251 SCC) and money laundering (Art. 305bis SCC), and into the former general director of the Uzbek subsidiary of a Russian telecommunications company in connection with money laundering (Art. 305bis SCC). Between 2012 and 2014, the proceedings were extended to include several of Gulnara Karimovas subordinates and Gulnara Karimova herself once the immunity connected with her activities as a diplomat at the United Nations Office in Geneva was lifted. Between 2018 and 2021, as part of the investigation, four persons were convicted by summary penalty order of money laundering and forgery of documents. More than CHF 340 million was definitively confiscated with a view to being returned to Uzbekistan. Currently, more than CHF 440 million in assets remains under seizure in the proceedings against Gulnara Karimova and the second accused. In 2021, the criminal proceedings against Gulnara Karimova and the former general director were extended to include suspicions of accepting bribes as foreign public officials (Art. 322septies para. 2 SCC). A final extension of the proceedings, to include participating in and supporting a criminal organisation (Art. 260ter SCC), took place in 2022. The Office: goal and organisation According to the indictment, at least from 2001 until 2013, Gulnara Karimova developed and directed a hierarchical criminal organisation known as The Office, comprising several dozen persons and large number of companies. In Switzerland, this organisation allegedly began its operations in 2005, in particular in order to conceal the capital originating from its criminal dealings in Swiss bank accounts and safes and by purchasing real estate. In view in particular of its size, its mode of organisation, its infrastructures, the scale of the assets that it held and the qualifications of certain of its members, The Office conducted its criminal activities as a professional business, complying with mandatory regulations and observing a strict allocation of tasks, while also resorting to violence and intimidation. The investigations revealed references to a hundred companies established and used in order to guarantee that the entire structure remained opaque. These companies held bank accounts in various jurisdictions, in particular Switzerland. Activities in the Uzbek telecommunications sector The Uzbek telecommunications sector, which saw highly dynamic development from the Year 2000 onwards, was one of the most profitable industries in the country. According to the indictment, at that time, foreign companies that wished to enter and operate in this sector were required to pay bribes to Gulnara Karimova via companies in The Office, in order that she would intervene decisively in their favour. Gulnara Karimova thus exploited her dual status as the daughter of the President and as an Uzbek public official, which allowed her to exercise unlimited influence over state officials when it came to allowing companies to enter and operate in the telecommunications sector. Criminal dealings in Switzerland The corrupt funds obtained from the telecommunications companies were then moved in complex operations to various bank accounts, through several countries and different companies, before being transferred in particular to bank accounts in Switzerland, opened in the name of companies in The Office. The beneficial owners of these bank accounts were men of straw, thereby concealing the fact that Gulnara Karimova was the true beneficiary. The investigations conducted in Switzerland have led to the seizure of assets totalling an amount equivalent to around CHF 780 million, comprising bank assets and real estate, as well as cash and valuables deposited in bank safes. Allegations and role of the two accused Gulnara Karimova is accused of being in overall charge of The Office, which constituted a criminal organisation. She is alleged to have been involved in establishing the organisation and initiating its criminal activities, and in particular in opening bank accounts in Switzerland in the name of The Offices members and companies, in transferring criminal assets, and in drawing up fictitious and false documents intended to justify these transfers. Alongside Gulnara Karimova, the second accused (the former general director of the Uzbek subsidiary of a Russian telecommunications company) is accused of being a key member of The Office. In particular, he is alleged to have been involved in devising and operating corrupt schemes in the Uzbek telecommunications sector. Case with international dimensions The international dimension of the case has led a number of jurisdictions to open criminal investigations, often based on information provided by the OAG. Several criminal proceedings have been instigated, in Sweden, France, Norway, the Netherlands, the United States and the United Kingdom. The existence of The Office and a multitude of crimes committed by this criminal organisation have been confirmed in several judgments issued in Switzerland and abroad. In addition, the OAG has filed and received numerous requests for mutual assistance, involving 19 countries, in connection with these proceedings. Request for confiscation In connection with the indictment filed in the FCC, the OAG has also requested the confiscation of assets totalling more than CHF 440 million. Finally, it should be noted that the criminal proceedings conducted in the same context against the private bank Lombard Odier & Cie SA, one of its former managers and persons unknown on suspicion of failing to exercise sufficient diligence in financial transactions (Art. 305ter para. 1 SCC) and aggravated money laundering (Art. 305bis no. 1 and 2 SCC) is still ongoing. The presumption of innocence applies to both accused until a final judgment has been issued. Now that the indictment has been filed, the FCC has sole responsibility for providing further information. Original version of the text in French. Address for enquiries Communications Service of the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland; T +41 58 464 32 40; info@ba.admin.ch Publisher Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland http://www.ba.admin.ch/ State Secretariat for Economic Affairs Bern, 28.09.2023 - On 28 September, SECO, under the leadership of Boris Zurcher, Head of the Labour Directorate, received a delegation in Bern from the Chinese Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security (MoHRSS) and Chinese social partners for the fifth tripartite dialogue on labour between Switzerland and China. The tripartite delegations met in person for the first time since the pandemic. Switzerland and China exchanged experiences in the area of new forms of work and addressed in particular their impact on worker protection issues and the growing demand for highly skilled workers due to the digitalisation of the working environment. Switzerland expressed concern about reports of labour discrimination, arbitrary internment, and forced labour in Xinjiang and other Chinese regions. It called on China to respect fundamental principles and rights at work as a member state of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and to implement ILO Core Conventions Nos. 29 and 105 on forced labour without delay. The representatives of the Swiss social partners supported this demand and shared their concerns, particularly with regard to trade union freedom in Hong Kong. Address for enquiries State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO Holzikofenweg 36 CH-3003 Bern Tel. +41 58 462 56 56 medien@seco.admin.ch Publisher State Secretariat for Economic Affairs http://www.seco.admin.ch State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation Bern, 28.09.2023 - From 30 September to 3 October, the State Secretary for Education, Research and Innovation, Martina Hirayama, will visit Japan with a high-ranking scientific delegation. The inauguration of the new Swissnex site and consulate in Osaka on 30 September will be one of the highlights of the trip. Several meetings at ministerial level are on the agenda. Ms Hirayama will also take part in the Science and Technology for Society Forum in Kyoto. On 1 October, the visit will culminate in the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation to strengthen existing ties between Switzerland and Japan in all areas of research. The opening of a new Swissnex site in the dynamic Kansai region is an important step in consolidating scientific relations between Switzerland and Japan, not least in view of the next World Expo, which will be held in Osaka in 2025. Swissnex is the Swiss global network connecting Switzerland and the world 20th in education, research and innovation. One of the aims of the new consulate will be to support more projects between universities, research institutes and start-ups in the two countries in order to meet the challenges of tomorrow. The inauguration ceremony will take place on 30 September, with Ms Hirayama and numerous Japanese representatives attending. It will focus in particular on innovations and trends in sustainability, and will feature nine Swiss start-ups. Science and Technology Forum and signing of Memorandum of Cooperation On 1 October, the delegation will be in Kyoto for the Science and Technology for Society (STS) Forum. Launched by the Japanese government in 2004, the annual STS Forum brings together a large number of ministers and representatives of the scientific community from around the world for high-level discussions on science, technology and innovation. On this occasion, Ms Hirayama will participate in a ministerial round table to discuss in particular the topics of open science and brain circulation. Several meetings at ministerial level and with the two main bilateral research funding agencies are also on the agenda. On the fringes of the STS Forum, Ms Hirayama will sign a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with Mr Masahito Moriyama, Japan's Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. The MoC aims to strengthen the existing ties between Switzerland and Japan in all areas of research, in particular quantum science and technology, artificial intelligence, robotics, materials science and space research. The two countries will thus reaffirm their desire to continue developing their research and innovation relations. In Tokyo, Ms Hirayama will take part in the Switzerland-Japan Economic Forum. This year's event will focus on the key role of cooperation between universities and the private sector in accelerating innovation in Japan and Switzerland. Other ministerial meetings will also take place in the Japanese capital. A key partner in Education, Research and Innovation Switzerland and Japan enjoy excellent relations in the field of research and innovation. Since the signing of the Science and Technology Cooperation Agreement in 2007, the two countries have steadily intensified cooperation through governmental initiatives and direct cooperation projects initiated by research and innovation players and the private sector. The two countries share many areas of common interest, such as an ageing population, energy transition and digitalisation. Within the framework of the Swiss National Science Foundation's funding instruments, Japan is Switzerland's most important research partner in Asia: since 2016, almost 450 projects have involved collaborating with Japanese researchers. Address for enquiries State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation SERI Communications medien@sbfi.admin.ch +41 58 462 96 90 Publisher State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation http://www.sbfi.admin.ch Paul Scherrer Institut Villigen, 28.09.2023 - The Swiss Light Source SLS at PSI will shut down temporarily as part of a major upgrade project. It will come back online in 2025, ready to supply even more powerful synchrotron light than ever for innovative scientific experiments. At 8 a.m. on the morning of Saturday 30 September, the Swiss Light Source SLS, one of PSIs five large research facilities, will be shut down. It will remain out of operation for research purposes for over a year while the facility undergoes a comprehensive modernisation programme: the SLS 2.0 upgrade project. The SLS is Switzerlands only research facility using synchrotron light. It supplies highly concentrated X-ray light for scientific experiments in many fields, such as physics, materials science, chemistry, biology and medicine. Since it first came into service in 2001, some 22,500 experiments have been performed at the SLS. In addition, external researchers have visited the SLS to conduct scientific experiments around 53,000 times in these 22 years. The purpose of the current upgrade is to make the high-calibre facility fit to address the scientific challenges of future decades. The upgrade will greatly increase the density of the X-ray light: the beam will be even brighter and collimated stronger. This will allow more samples to be examined at the SLS over the same amount of time or to get more scientific data over the same period. In many cases, performance will improve by up to a factor of 40. In addition, researchers will be able to visualise larger areas of a sample. In other experiments, the resolution of the images will be increased, so that in future it will be possible to investigate even smaller structures, for example in the nanoscale. Research into systems for the energy transition The upgrade will mainly affect the 288-metre-long electron storage ring. A new vacuum tube will be fitted, along with around one thousand new, complex magnets that will hold the electrons with high precision on a then improved circular path. As the electrons are accelerated to almost the speed of light they release a special type of X-ray light, or synchrotron radiation. This is used for scientific research at around twenty beam lines around the ring. Several new beamlines will also be set up as part of the upgrade, including the future Debye beamline. Here, researchers will be able to study materials and systems, such as catalysers and batteries, that can contribute towards the energy transition, not only with extreme precision, but under realistic operating conditions. Other experimental stations at SLS are ideal for investigating the electronic or magnetic properties of materials that could be useful for the next generation of electronic devices, or for making non-destructive 3D recordings with a resolution of just a few nanometres. Yet other beamlines are used to examine proteins, the building blocks of life, whose precise knowledge helps to develop new medical agents. A prominent visual landmark and extremely successful Hans Braun is project leader for the SLS 2.0 upgrade. The SLS is not only a prominent visual landmark, but also an extremely successful PSI facility which is now being completely remodelled. This will allow us to remain competitive at the forefront of science. The upgrade is not just technically extremely challenging and complex, but is also subject to great time pressure, Braun explains: During the current core phase of the upgrade, research at the facility has to pause. Therefore, we have planned everything in such a way as to keep this time as short as possible. Dark Time until January 2025 Research on the beamlines already ceased on Monday 25 September. The electron accelerator facility and the associated electron storage ring continued to run for a few days for test purposes. When the accelerator is switched off now, the SLS will enter what is called the Dark Time. This period will last only 15 months: the electron accelerator facility will be restarted as early as January 2025. From then on, the beam lines will also gradually resume operation. The first scientific experiments are planned for August 2025. By 2026, scientific operations should be fully re-established. Swiss and international researchers from both academia and industry use the SLS and appreciate its value. After the upgrade they will have access to an even more powerful experimental facility, says PSI Director Christian Ruegg. Furthermore, our PSI researchers will use the Dark Time to full effect to upgrade the experimental stations to a technical level that meets the future parameters of the SLS. Even if experiments have to stop for a while science doesn't take a break. Text: Paul Scherrer Institute/Laura Hennemann About PSI The Paul Scherrer Institute PSI develops, builds and operates large, complex research facilities and makes them available to the national and international research community. The institute's own key research priorities are in the fields of future technologies, energy and climate, health innovation and fundamentals of nature. PSI is committed to the training of future generations. Therefore about one quarter of our staff are post-docs, post-graduates or apprentices. Altogether PSI employs 2200 people, thus being the largest research institute in Switzerland. The annual budget amounts to approximately CHF 420 million. PSI is part of the ETH Domain, with the other members being the two Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology, ETH Zurich and EPFL Lausanne, as well as Eawag (Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology), Empa (Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology) and WSL (Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research). Address for enquiries Dr. Mirjam van Daalen Head of Communications Paul Scherrer Institute CH-5232 Villigen PSI Phone: +41 56 310 56 74 mirjam.vandaalen@psi.ch Publisher Paul Scherrer Institut Auburn University is one of the least economically diverse public schools in the country, according to a New York Times database published this month. The New York Times College Access Index measured economic diversity in the countrys most selective colleges by analyzing the share of students receiving Pell Grants and attendance costs in the 2020-21 school year. The list covers 286 of the most selective public and private colleges in the country, which together enrolled about 2.7 million of the countrys 15.9 million students that year. In this ranking, Auburn University reported the lowest share of freshmen Pell recipients 11% than any other public university listed. The average percentage of Pell recipients among listed colleges was 21%. The latest federal data, from the 2020-21 school year, shows that about 65% of Auburn students got some level of institutional aid, totaling up to an average of $9,799. But that doesnt necessarily mean that those scholarships are going to low-income students. Overall, Auburn ranked 265th for accessibility, tied with Furman University, Reed College, Tufts University and William and Mary. Auburn has been working to enroll more low-income students, listing a goal to ensure that at least 17.5% of its student body is eligible for Pell grants this school year. Officials also plan to increase funding for need-based aid, improve relationships with two-year colleges and work to dispel perceptions that the school is not diverse or inclusive and too expensive or elitist. Read more: What the end of race-conscious admissions means for Alabama colleges. Auburn did not respond to a request for an update on those efforts. Two other Alabama colleges also appeared in the ranking, which only included undergraduate colleges that are considered selective. The University of Alabama ranked 149th on the list, reporting 19% of freshmen Pell recipients. The University of Alabama at Huntsville ranked 81st, with 24% of freshmen receiving Pell Grants. While schools with big endowments such as Princeton, Yale and Harvard have been accepting more and more Pell recipients, that percentage has appeared to decline in other schools. Among all Alabama schools listed, the percentage of Pell recipients has declined in the past decade, with UAH seeing the largest dip, from 34% to 24%. Cost of attendance in each of the three Alabama colleges, on the other hand, is higher than average, with net prices for middle-income students ranging between $18,000 to $22,000 a year. The average net price among selective colleges was $17,800. Net prices are the total cost of college attendance including fees, room and board and tuition minus the average amount of aid given out to students. Middle-income describes a student with a family income between $48,000 and $75,000. The College Access Index differs from more popular college rankings because it only focuses on cost and accessibility among selective colleges, rather than all colleges. According to the U.S. News and World Reports most recent college rankings, Auburn University is listed as the 93rd best college in the nation and the 47th best public school. Out of 211 colleges, it ranked 177th in best value. The New York Times also released a Build Your Own College Rankings tool this year, allowing users to score colleges based on various cost and diversity factors, as well as employment outcomes, academics and campus life. Alabama schools with the most economic diversity to the least are ranked below: New details have emerged around the abrupt departure of Barbara Cooper, Alabamas early childhood director ousted by Gov. Kay Ivey in April over a preschool training manual that discussed inclusive teaching practices. In an announcement in April, Ivey abruptly announced a change in leadership in Coopers nationally-recognized department, citing a manual, which she called woke and concerning, from the National Association for the Education of Young Children, or NAEYC. Emails obtained by AL.com and the Alabama Reflector, however, show that Cooper had promptly complied with a request to pull the manual a week prior to her resignation, a detail that was not made clear in the governors announcement of her departure. Records also confirm earlier reporting that the concerns were spurred by a Republican lawmaker, Rep. Jamie Kiel, who distributed a document highlighting passages from the book, without context, that he created after receiving a complaint from an educator. AL.com requested the records on April 21 and received them in August. The records cover emails to and from the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education and Iveys office from April 1, 2023 to mid-May. Read more: Alabama cuts more pre-K equity resources after removing NAEYC manual, firing Barbara Cooper In an original notice of Coopers departure, issued Friday, April 21, Ivey said she was made aware of concerning content in a pre-K educator resource book. The book was the fourth edition of the Developmentally Appropriate Practice Book, a training manual for early childhood educators. NAEYC is a leading national preschool group that accredits hundreds of high-quality early childcare facilities. Cooper also was a member of the groups governing board at the time of her departure. In her announcement, Ivey said she directed Cooper to send a memo disavowing the book and discontinuing its use after conducting a review of its contents. But Ivey did not make clear that Cooper had complied with the request. Instead, the governor immediately accepted Coopers letter of resignation, which was submitted earlier that day. The education of Alabamas children is my top priority as governor, and there is absolutely no room to distract or take away from this mission, the governor wrote. Let me be crystal clear: Woke concepts that have zero to do with a proper education and that are divisive at the core have no place in Alabama classrooms at any age level, let alone with our youngest learners. We want our children to be focused on the fundamentals, such as reading and math. The governors office did not respond to AL.coms questions about the omission, but a spokeswoman told the Reflector that the staff serves at the pleasure of the governor. The cabinet members and all of us on staff serve at the pleasure of the governor, and as I shared in the initial update: Governor Ivey has made the decision to have a change in leadership at the department and accepted Dr. Coopers resignation immediately, she wrote. NAEYC, which previously launched a petition in support of Cooper, declined to comment any further. Timeline of events AL.coms records request did not indicate any relevant communications between the governors office and Coopers department prior to mid-April, when concerns from lawmakers were brought to the departments attention. On Thursday, April 13, at 11:07 a.m., Iveys Chief of Staff Liz Filmore emailed Cooper a copy of a legislative document and asked her to review it. The attached document is being circulated around the Legislature. It is obviously concerning! she wrote. Please review and determine if this document is the approved curriculum by the Department of Early Childhood Education. The attached document, dated April 12, identified several passages from the NAEYC manual that encouraged educators to consider social and cultural backgrounds of their students, as well as how their own biases may impact their teaching. Someone appeared to have highlighted phrases about white privilege, LGBTQ families and structural racism. Experts told AL.com that the DAP manual is not a curriculum, nor is it in any way intended to be read by children. The manual is a tool to help educators improve their daily practices. The attached document matched an electronic copy obtained by AL.com earlier this year. Kiel, who represents Russellville, told AL.com he created the document after he received a complaint from an Alabama teacher about the manual, which he called appalling. I have been told by multiple education groups that divisive concepts are not in our schools, yet the material I read was offensive to me and the majority of the people I represent, Kiel said at the time. Filmores copy of the document appears to have been printed out and includes the name Users/DGoza at the bottom of the page. According to reporting from the Alabama Reflector, Kiel asked Daisy Goza, an assistant to Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter, to print out the document, which was then shared with the governors office. On Friday, April 14, at 5:14 p.m., Cooper emailed all members of the Department of Early Childhood Education, announcing that the department would discontinue the use of the Developmentally Appropriate Practice manual, which she called unacceptable. The ADECE was made aware of content in the 4th edition of the NAEYC Developmentally Appropriate Practice book that was not in previous editions, she wrote. After a thorough review, we have found concerning and non-age-appropriate concepts in the resource book intended for educators from this national group. She told staffers to return the book to their supervisors by no later than Wednesday, April 19. She said the department would also stop using modules and small group activities included in the manual. A few minutes after the memo was sent, ADECE Communications Director Samuel Adams sent a copy to Filmore, as well as other members of the Governors executive staff. A few days later, on April 17, Cooper notified NAEYC CEO Michelle Kang that she would not be able to attend the groups board meeting the following week, due to upcoming legislative meetings. Cooper explained that the governor had requested an increase in the departments budget, and she needed to be there to talk with lawmakers. I had hoped Id be able to work through these challenges prior to Sunday and reschedule any new commitments, but this is not the case, she wrote. I appreciate your understanding and allowing me this opportunity to be present for the children in Alabama. But just a few days later, Cooper sent in her notice. On Friday, April 21 at 12:42 p.m., Cooper emailed Filmore a brief notice of her resignation, effective May 1, 2023. Filmore replied, also at 12:42, accepting the resignation. Less than two hours later, the Governors office sent out a news release about Coopers departure. In response to questions from reporters a few days later, Ivey said the two had mutually agreed that she should move on. Neither AL.coms or The Reflectors record requests show any communications between Cooper and the governors staff in that time period. A spokeswoman did not answer questions about the gap in communication records or about the governors decision to force Coopers resignation. Acclaimed Birmingham chef Abhishek Abhi Sainju is opening a new restaurant. Wednesday, in posts on Facebook and Instagram, Sainju announced his new restaurant Maro will be opening soon. The eatery is located at 361 Rele Street in Mountain Brook, next to Sons Donuts & Pops and across the street from Starbucks. In comments on Facebook, Sainju said the new restaurant would serve poke and many other bowls and focus on the lunch crowd. Dining website Birmingham Restaurants describes Maro as a fast-casual Asian restaurant with menu items including bao-mi, signature poke, and build your own poke bowls. An Instagram post from the Maro account offers a sneak peek of another possible item-- belly butt pork adobo. Maro is located two minutes away from Sainjus other restaurant in Mountain Brook, Abhi Eatery + Bar. The restaurant featuring sushi and Nepalese-inspired dishes opened in December 2019. Last year Sainju shuttered his first location of the restaurant at The Summit. . Cher kidnapped her son last year from a New York hotel where he was with his wife, according to court documents. It was the night of their anniversary. The allegations in the documents were made by the Hollywood icons daughter-in-law and are part of divorce proceedings between Chers younger son, Elijah Blue Allman, 47, and Marieangela King, 36, who wed Allman in 2013. Allman filed for divorce in November 2021, but a year later, the pair spent nearly two weeks at a New York hotel in an attempt to repair their marriage, according to documents filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court in December that were reviewed by The Times. King said in the documents that, on the night of the couples anniversary in November 2022, four men came to our hotel room and removed [Allman] from our room. In the papers, which King filed not long after the alleged incident, she said: I am currently unaware of my husbands wellbeing or whereabouts. I am very concerned and worried about him. I was told by one of the four men who took him that they were hired by [Allmans] mother, referring to the Oscar, Grammy and Emmy winner. Representatives for Cher, 77, did not respond to multiple requests for comment. Allmans attorney did not immediately respond Wednesday afternoon. King was not available to comment on Wednesday, but her attorney, Regina Ratner, told The Times that her client was still concerned for the health and safety of her estranged husband. After the alleged abduction, Allman was taken to a treatment facility and King was not allowed to contact him, the court documents said. He was expected to end his treatment by March. Cher had reportedly been worried about her sons health and had been planning an intervention after he apparently collapsed at the Chateau Marmont hotel in Hollywood last year, according to the Daily Mail, which was the first to report on the court filings. I understand his familys efforts to make sure he is well, King continued in the court documents, and I want what is best for my husband. The main aim of Kings December court filing was to seek spousal support and other means of assistance, such as housing and healthcare, as well as to gain access to her own assets and tax documents to prepare for a possible divorce trial, Ratner said as part of the filing. King said in the documents that Allman owed her $25,000 in outstanding spousal support payments. The lack of payments, she said, have made it difficult for her to obtain housing, pay legal bills, and purchase her prescription medications. In August 2022, King said in the documents that Cher requested she move out of her home with Allman. King wasnt allowed to retrieve all my belongings and does not have access to other items she bought with her husband during their marriage, such as art, antiques and furniture, according to the court documents. Ratner said these concerns over financial support and the ability to access Kings assets had not been resolved. A hearing to set a trial date in the divorce case is scheduled for October, but Ratner said the case had been on hold for months, declining to comment further. It is imperative that discovery be complete, and our property is valued before going to trial, King said in the December filing. Cher and her second husband, Gregg Allman, had Elijah in 1975 during their four-year marriage. She had previously divorced singing partner Sonny Bono. As she charted a solo career in the 1970s, Cher regularly appeared publicly with young Elijah at her side. Elijah went on to become a recording artist himself, heading the Los Angeles industrial metal band Deadsy. King, who performs as Queenie, is also a recording artist. In 1997, she and her four siblings formed the pop band King in London. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. 2023 Los Angeles Times. Visit latimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. HARDIN, Mont. (AP) Yolanda Fraser is back near a ragged chain-link fence, blinking through tears as she tidies up flowers and ribbons and a pinwheel twirls in the breeze at a makeshift roadside memorial in a small Montana town. This is where the badly decomposed body of her granddaughter Kaysera Stops Pretty Places was found a few days after the 18-year-old went missing from a Native American reservation border town. Four years later, there are still no answers about how the Native American teenager died. No named suspects. No arrests. Frasers grief is a common tale among Native Americans whose loved ones went missing, and shes turned her fight for justice into a leading role with other families working to highlight missing and slain Indigenous peoples cases across the U.S. Despite some early success from a new U.S. government program aimed at the problem, most cases remain unsolved and federal officials have closed more than 300 potential cases due to jurisdictional conflicts and other issues. As she told her granddaughters story, Fraser pushed past tears and began listing other names among the thousands of disappearances and violent deaths of Native Americans and Alaska Natives. My nephew Victor, my nephew Dane Fisher, my close relative Christy Rose Woodenthigh and it just goes on and on, Fraser said. It just became obvious that theres a pattern to all of it. Theres a line between these Native lives and other lives. ... But our voice is getting louder. People are listening. U.S. officials share frustration over the unsolved cases, which critics say reflects racial injustice, particularly when compared to the media frenzy that erupts when a white woman goes missing. The patchwork of jurisdictions makes it so hard to get started on these investigations. And when you lose time, your chances of solving these cases goes down, said Assistant Secretary of Interior Bryan Newland. Its frustrating for everybody. Federal law enforcement has jurisdiction over most Native American reservations, which often dont have their own police force yet experience people going missing at several times the rate of the rest of the nation. Thats set against a backdrop of historical injustices that include massacres of Native Americans by U.S. troops, forced assimilation of Native children in abusive boarding schools and the removal of many tribes from their traditional lands. Members of several victims families joined Fraser recently to dedicate a billboard honoring victims along Interstate 90 just outside the town of Hardin where Stops Pretty Places died. The billboard lists four dozen missing and slain people and other victims on the Northern Cheyenne and Crow reservations in southeastern Montana. As the names were recited over a loudspeaker some relatives of victims cried as they leaned into one another. When were divided were not strong at all, but when were together were powerful, said Blossom Old Bull, whose son was killed in a car crash at 17 while being pursued by police whom the family blames for his death. With backing from nonprofit groups and her family, Fraser hopes to erect similar billboards near reservations across the U.S. She wants to highlight the names behind crime statistics and for local officials to be confronted with the victims within their community. Stops Pretty Places died in Big Horn County, just outside the Crow Indian Reservation and about 55 miles (89 kilometers) from Muddy Creek, the Northern Cheyenne Reservation community where Fraser largely raised her. Shed been missing for several days when her body was found at the edge of a fenced-in yard next to a busy road, one door down from where shed last been seen with some friends. For years, the familys pleas for an outside investigation went unanswered. This spring they learned county authorities had finally agreed to federal assistance. Agents from the Bureau of Indian Affairs Missing and Murdered Unit are now reexamining the case. The unit was formed in 2021 by U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland amid rising criticism over the mishandling of crimes involving Native Americans. Its agents have received 845 case referrals, primarily from victims families, including 117 that were solved and 372 still under review or being investigated. More than 350 were closed with no resolution, often because of jurisdictional issues that prevent federal agents from working off-reservation without an invitation from local authorities. The Missing and Murdered Unit has only 15 agents, with plans to more than double that figure, officials said. Its caseload covers a small fraction of an estimated 4,200 unsolved cases nationwide among American Indians and Alaska Natives, with the victims ranging in age from toddlers to the elderly. Indigenous people account for 3.5% of missing persons in the U.S. more than three times the percentage in the overall population, according to federal data. Violent crimes reported against Native Americans more than tripled between 2010 and 2020, the Congressional Research Service reported in July, adding that improved reporting could have contributed to the increase. All these cases, theyre really different but it all has to do with the same thing the lack of law enforcement on reservations. the jurisdictional problems, said Melissa Lonebear, a member of the Northern Cheyenne Tribal Council. Adding to the challenges is the lack of reliable data on crime in Native communities. Thats beginning to change. In New Mexico, the FBI has compiled a database of about 200 missing Native Americans. And a first-of-its-kind report released in Alaska last month listed 280 missing Alaska Natives and American Indians. Requests for federal intervention have poured into the Missing and Murdered Unit in recent months as President Joe Bidens administration held a series of field hearings to solicit testimony about the crisis from tribal members, families of victims and survivors. People travelled hundreds of miles including from Washington state and South Dakota to attend the hearing in Billings, Montana, where they erected oversized photos of victims at the back of a convention center ballroom. They told the commission of loved ones who had been shot in the back, killed in their own home or gone missing and never seen again. Grace Bulltail, a member of the commission and one of Stops Pretty Places aunts, said its hard for many native families to step forward. When were speaking, we know that they dont care. We know theyre just waiting for us to stop talking. Theyve heard it before, Bulltail said, adding this is why some families remain silent. But when there is such an injustice and disregard for our lives, we have to speak out. The hearing also acted as a networking event, providing families the opportunity to trade tips on pushing investigations forward and bringing more attention to this crisis. Fraser traces the rise of her own advocacy to the brutal 2015 killing of Hannah Harris, whose partially clothed body was found on the Northern Cheyenne Reservation rodeo grounds near the town of Lame Deer days after she disappeared. Tribal members said the search for Harris was botched by authorities, allowing her body to become so decomposed it prevented prosecutors from pursuing murder charges against one of the suspects in the case. Harris birthday, May 5, was later designated by Congress as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Native Women and Girls, which has since been expanded to include all missing and murdered Indigenous peoples. When Stops Pretty Places died, Fraser reached out to Harris mother Frasers cousin -- for guidance. As the case dragged on their extended family began organizing rallies, letter-writing campaigns and other actions to spur further investigations. Were not going to stop. They get tired of us sometimes, but thats OK, Fraser said. We want to make noise. Morgan County officials say a person was killed Thursday morning in a two-vehicle crash involving an 18-wheel truck. Coroner Jeff Chunn has confirmed one fatality at the crash on Alabama 67 near Shoal Creek Road. The victims name has not yet been released. The Morgan County Sheriffs Office said the crash snarled traffic on both sides of the highway for several hours. Authorities are investigating. About 22,000 Alabamians lost Medicaid coverage in July, according to recent eligibility data from the Alabama Medicaid Agency. Most of the drop is from termination of healthcare coverage, but not all, according to Alabama Medicaid Agency Communications Director Melanie Cleveland. Some recipients may have moved out of state, passed away, or asked to be removed from coverage, Cleveland stated in an email. According to the AMA website, the agency removed 22,313 people from the Medicaid rolls between June and July. Jennifer Harris, health policy advocate with the nonprofit Alabama Arise, said this decrease is due to the COVID-19 emergency program unwinding earlier this year. She anticipates that eventually 60,000 to 80,000 Alabamians will lose coverage because of the end of the COVID-19 emergency. The 2020 Families First Coronavirus Response Act included continuous coverage for Medicaid recipients, so they didnt have to re-enroll. The program expired in June, and about 1.5 million people lost coverage nationally. In a previous interview, Harris said the ineligibility numbers didnt decrease dramatically in Alabama this summer because the Medicaid office did a more systematic, monthly unwinding process. According to Cleveland, recipients are allowed to be reinstated 90 days from their termination date. If they are still eligible, their coverage may be reinstated back to the date of termination, Cleveland said. Harris said Medicaid eligibility in Alabama is very prohibitive. For example, she said two adults and one child with an income of more than $373 per month (or $4,476 per year) are ineligible for Medicaid. The income eligibility requirements for a family of three are approximately $3,025 monthly if a woman is pregnant. Alabama is one of 10 states that have chosen not to expand Medicaid, which would give healthcare access to approximately 300,000 Alabamians who are in what Harris called the coverage gap. The income for a family in the gap is too high for Medicaid. However, they still cant afford private insurance or receive subsidies from Healthcare.gov. Harris said its essential to use the recipients portal of the AMA website to ensure the office has the correct mailing address, phone number, and email address. Sometimes, recipients are ineligible because the AMA office cant contact recipients. Alabama Arise created a toolkit for Medicaid recipients who may lose coverage because of the unwinding process. Harris also encourages people to reach out to Enroll Alabama, which has navigators to go through the next steps. We do want people to get that support to understand how to navigate the system, Harris said. Three suspects have been charged in the fatal shooting of a man who was robbed and killed during a gun sale in east Alabama earlier this year. Gadsden police on Thursday announced capital murder charges against Jakarious Markel Moore, 19, of Odenville, DAngelo Devante Martin, 26, of East Gadsden, and Kendrick Terril Williams, 19, of Gadsden. They are charged in the slaying of Jacob Graham. The deadly shooting happened at 11:50 p.m. on March 30 on Mississippi Street in East Gadsden. Kendrick Terril Williams (Etowah County Jail) When police arrived on the scene, they found Graham inside his Infiniti G35 suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was taken to UAB Hospital where he died two weeks later. Before he died, Graham was able to tell detectives he was robbed and shot while he was trying to sell a gun, said Sgt. Jake Keener. The investigation led to the trios arrest and the recovery of the murder weapon. The suspects were initially charged with robbery and attempted murder. Those charges were upgraded to capital murder following Grahams death. Sign up for Alabamafication, a free weekly newsletter from Kyle Whitmire, 2023 winner of the Pulitzer Prize. This is an opinion column. Years ago, I lived in denial. My hair was thinning in the back and I fretted over what to do about the hole in my ozone layer. I tried that prescription spray, but it didnt seem to do much. Finally, I asked my barber. I know of something you should try, he said. Whats that? Its called a C-A-P. Thanks, pal. Later I started cutting my own hair and not giving my smartalek barber any more of my money. I knew what a cap was. Everybody knows what a cap is. And what a cap is good for. Or so I thought. You see, last March, the state of Alabama put a different sort of cap on the rising cost of its mega-prison in Elmore County. $975 million. That was the cap a committee of government officials, including Gov. Kay Ivey, approved. I assumed then that they were using C-A-P in the accounting sense, as in a limit. A ceiling. A point above which we would not pass. But this week, the same folks told us that the same prison would cost $1.08 billion. Maybe they gave the new prison a top hat. Or perhaps, theres no wrong meaning to C-A-P here, because it was meaningless then and meaningless now. Because nothing about this deal has ever made much sense. Way back in the year 2016, when borrowing was cheap, Gov. Robert Bentley told us that Alabama could spend $800 million for four new prisons. That was $200 million per prison. A few years and one new governor later, Ivey told us in 2019 that it would cost $900 million to build three new prisons. That came to $300 million per prison. And we lost another one somewhere along the way. The Alabama Legislature then approved $1.3 billion to build two new prisons. That was $650 million per prison and Whoops! Another one was gone. Then, in March, the state said it would spend most of that money your money on one new prison. But state officials put a cap on it, so we were cool. Right? Now the same folks say it will cost $1.08 billion. For just one prison. According to Alabama Appleseed, our new prison would become the most expensive ever built in this country. It will house 4,000 beds. Thats $270,000 per bed about $50,000 more than the typical Alabama home. And were not done yet. Who knows if $1.08 billion is the final price tag? State officials say so, but see above. And these beds will only replace capacity elsewhere in the system. The new prison is not expected to fix or even improve Alabamas overcrowding problem. The last time I saw a major construction project spiral out of control like this, it was the Jefferson County sewer scandal, which sent the county into bankruptcy. It also didnt decrease the prison population. From the beginning, this project has been cloaked in secrecy. The state and the firms it has hired have denied public information requests that could reveal what exactly tax money is buying or who is getting paid. They have refused to show so much as what this prison would look like, citing security issues. As if people wont be able to look at it when its done and see for themselves. What seems clear now is that no one ever really knew how much this was going to cost. Every number weve been given has been as meaningless as the cap state officials put on this project six months ago. They just pulled these numbers out of their hat. Like me so many years ago, Alabama officials have been living in denial. But Alabamians wont be able to get out of the haircut thats coming. Kyle Whitmire is the state political columnist for AL.com and the 2023 recipient of the Pulitzer Prize for commentary. Sign up for his weekly newsletter and get Alabamafication in your inbox every Wednesday. An American Airlines flight attendant was found dead with a cloth in her mouth at a hotel near Philadelphia International Airport. On Monday, Philadelphia police responded to the Marriott Hotel near the airport at 10:41 p.m. A 66-year-old Hispanic female was found unresponsive with a cloth in her mouth and declared dead on the scene. No arrest or weapon was recovered. She was then transported to a medical examiners office, a spokesperson for the Philadelphia Police Department said. WPVI TV reported the cloth was a sock. We are devastated by this news, said Lindsey Martin, spokeswoman for American Airlines. Our thoughts are with the family and colleagues, and were doing everything we can to ensure all affected have the support they need during this difficult time. We will continue to cooperate fully with local law enforcement in their investigation. According to ABC News Philadelphia, several sealed bottles of prescription drugs were found in the room and she was supposed to have checked out two days earlier. The name of the woman has not been released. The investigation is ongoing with the departments Homicide Detectives Division, according to Philadelphia police. ------- 2023 The Dallas Morning News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. It was one year ago this week that a Birmingham mother was shot to death with a pellet gun and still no one has been brought to justice in her slaying. Asia Monique Johnson, 25, was found unresponsive Sept. 30, 2022, in the 7100 block of First Avenue North. Her death was initially believed to be unclassified, but an autopsy later showed she sustained a fatal wound from a pellet gun. Officers responded at 7:46 p.m. that Friday to a 911 call reported an unresponsive woman. East Precinct officers arrived to find the wounded Johnson, and Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service attempted CPR but to no avail. Johnson was pronounced dead on the scene at 8:19 p.m. Asia Johnson (Contributed) Birmingham police Officer Truman Fitzgerald on Thursday issued a plea for information in Johnsons slaying. We need your help, Fitzgerald said. Johnson was originally from Bessemer and was killed just two days before her 26th birthday. She left behind a 1-year-old daughter Relatives said she was a protective person who loved her family and doted on her nieces and nephews. Anyone with information is asked to call to Birmingham homicide detectives at 205-254-1764 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austins salary of $221,000 would be cut to just $1 under an amendment to a defense spending bill proposed by Georgia U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, according to news reports. The provision states clearly: None of the funds made available by this Act may be used to pay Defense Secretary Lloyd James Austin III a salary that exceeds $1, The Hill reported. Under his failed leadership, our military is being destroyed and he doesnt deserve to serve any longer, Greene said on X, the social media platform once known as Twitter. This is the first time in the 118th Congress the Holman rule has been used to hold a Biden official accountable. Its time for more, Greene said. House Democrats want to blame President Trump for the failure in Afghanistan that lies squarely on the shoulders of Lloyd Austin, Joe Biden, and his admin. President Trump would have never left the Afghan people in complete ruin and controlled by a terrorist government. Lloyd pic.twitter.com/d7q4sgpLmh Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) September 27, 2023 Several unidentified lawmakers voted aye, allowing the amendment to be placed in a defense appropriation bill. But the amendment is likely to go nowhere as the spending bill was already doomed to fail in the Senate, Business Insider reported. A spokesperson for the Pentagon said it would be inappropriate for the Defense Department to comment on pending legislation, Stars and Stripes reported. Austin, a West Point graduate who rose to the Armys elite ranks, is a Mobile, Alabama native who was appointed in 2021. A Florida man is under arrest after authorities say he got on an Alabama school bus impersonating himself as a student to be with a 15-year-old girl. Police on Wednesday were dispatched at 3 p.m. Wednesday to Enterprise High School after a teacher discovered the 23-year-old Pompano man on the bus. Dennis Wimberly was immediately taken into custody on a charge of criminal trespassing on a school bus. As the investigation continued, detectives learned that Wimberly had arranged to meet the teen student on the bus. She assisted in getting him on the bus, police said. The investigation showed that Wimberly and the girl had a previous sexual encounter and had transmitted obscene material via their cell phones. Wimberly is also charged with second-degree rape and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. He was booked into the Coffee County Jail where he remained held without bond Thursday. Heinz is the latest to jump in on the Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce crazy, releasing a limited edition Ketchup and Seemingly Ranch sauce in celebration of the two. On Sunday, Swift made an appearance at the Chiefs-Bears game. What she was eating was as popular as anything else apparently. According to a Swift fan account, she ate chicken tenders, ketchup and seemingly ranch. Now the ketchup maker is cashing in with a combination of the two sauces. Heinz is producing and releasing 100 bottles of Ketchup and Seemingly Ranch sauce with a chance to score one soon via its Instagram account. Its a new Era for Heinz. Introducing Ketchup and Seemingly Ranch. Limited-edition bottles coming soon, the condiment company wrote on Instagram. Several organizations tried to profit from the ranch dressing craze, including Hidden Valley Ranch, who tweeted a picture of their dressing bottle with a red label and the words Tay + Trav and the message new product just dropped. The Empire State Building in New York City joined the fun by lighting up in red and white on Tuesday night. A post on X, formerly known as Twitter, showed the building with the caption ketchup and seemingly ranch. Ketchup and seemingly ranch pic.twitter.com/8L7UhjCaH7 Empire State Building (@EmpireStateBldg) September 27, 2023 Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on The Opening Kickoff on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily. A monument was unveiled Thursday in Detroit to commemorate a white mother who was slain in Alabama while shuttling demonstrators after the 1965 Selma-to-Montgomery voting rights march, along with the Black friend who helped raise her children following her death. A ceremony was held at Viola Liuzzo Park on the citys northwest side for Liuzzo and Sarah Evans. SISTERS IN LIFE SISTERS IN STRUGGLE is written across the top of the 7-foot laser-etched granite monument that features photo images of Liuzzo and Evans. Liuzzo was a 39-year-old nursing student at Wayne State University in Detroit when she drove alone to Alabama to help the civil rights movement. She was struck in the head March 25, 1965, by shots fired from a passing car. Her Black passenger, 19-year-old Leroy Moton, was wounded. Three Ku Klux Klan members were convicted in Liuzzos death. Liuzzos murder followed Bloody Sunday, a civil rights march in which protesters were beaten, trampled and tear-gassed by police at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama. On March 7, 1965, marchers were walking from Selma to the state capital, Montgomery, to demand an end to discriminatory practices that robbed Black people of their right to vote. Images of the violence during the first march shocked the U.S. and turned up the pressure to pass the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which helped open voter rolls to millions of Black people in the South. Before leaving Detroit for Alabama, Liuzzo told her husband it was everybodys fight and asked Evans to help care for her five young children during her brief absence, according to script on the monument. Tyrone Green Sr., Evans grandson, told a small crowd at Thursdays unveiling that the monument is unbelievable. When God put two angels together, cant nothing but something good come out of that, he said of Evans and Liuzzo. They knew what love was. Evans died in 2005. In an apparent reference to efforts in Florida and some other Southern states to restrict how race can be taught in schools and reduce Black voting power, the Rev. Wendell Anthony said that unveiling such a monument would not be acceptable in certain parts of the United States of America today, and that Liuzzos life would be banned. Im glad to be in Michigan and Detroit, and if were not careful, that same mess will slide here, said Anthony, president of the Detroit NAACP branch. Thats why what Viola Liuzzo was fighting for the right to vote is so essential. Everybody doesnt get a monument, he added. Your life, your service determines the monument that you will receive. City officials worked with the Viola Liuzzo Park Association, which raised $22,000 to create the monument. The small park was created in the 1970s to honor Liuzzo. The park also features a statue of Liuzzo walking barefoot with shoes in one hand and a Ku Klux Klan hood on the ground behind her. The statue was dedicated in 2019. In 2015, Wayne State honored Liuzzo with an honorary doctor of laws degree. A shootout in west Birmingham late Wednesday left one man dead and two others injured. The Jefferson County Coroners Office identified the slain man as Toshobe Antonio Adox-Jones. He was 24 and lived in Birmingham. Just before midnight, West Precinct officers were dispatched to Fire Station 20 on Avenue W after two men showed up there with gunshot wounds, said Officer Truman Fitzgerald. Both of those men were taken to the hospital. One of them has life-threatening injuries, Fitzgerald said. Officers then learned a third man, Adox-Jones, was taken by private vehicle to Princeton Baptist Medical Center. He was pronounced dead at the hospital at 12:29 a.m. Fitzgerald said the citys gunfire detection system Shot Spotter indicated shots fired in the 1600 block of Fulton Avenue S.W. An exchange of gunfire on Fulton Avenue S.W. just before midnight on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, left one man dead and two injured. (BPD) We believe shots were exchanged between two groups, he said. All three gunshot victims were struck by gunfire and detectives believe they were not bystanders. Investigators are working to determine the victims involvement in the shootout. No arrests have been announced. The deadly shooting is Birminghams 96th homicide this year. Of those, one was an officer involved shooting by an outside law enforcement agency and seven others have been ruled justifiable and therefore not deemed criminal. In all of Jefferson County, there have been 136 homicides including the 96 in Birmingham. Anyone with information is asked to call homicide detectives at 205-254-1764 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. A congressional hearing today on the permanent future home of U.S. Space Command ended with a vow from powerful U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Ala) to see that no funds are spent in Colorado on a permanent headquarters there. But Rogers faced a threat in return that workers staffing the command in Colorado dont want to move to Alabama and wont move if that is the final headquarters decision. That means finding replacements, and the two states representatives disagreed about the ease of that and potential effect on national security. Rogers of Alabama, who is chairman of the House Armed Services Committee and plays a leading part in drafting the military budget, called the hearing. A horrible process horribly messed up, ranking Democratic Congressman Adam Smith summed up as it began. The hearings goal was to try to untangle a long saga involving whether the command should stay in Colorado, where it was started, or move to Huntsville, Ala., which topped the official ranking of competing headquarters sites ranking several places higher than Colorado. Space Command leaders testified the command is staffed with 1,400 military and civilian employees operating now in Colorado Springs and poised to reach full operating capability this year. Let me be clear, Rogers said in his prepared statement. This is not, and never has been, about readiness. Rogers quoted Gen. Chance Saltzman, the general with day-to-day responsibility for readiness, saying the permanent location of the headquarters will not impact the readiness of the United States Space Force. The people at Space Command dont want to move, ranking Democrat Smith said. Theyre in Colorado Springs. Theyve been there. They set it up and they dont want to move. I dont know exactly why. I dont think it has much to do with preferring Colorado Springs over Huntsville, Ala. Moving is a pain and, if you dont have to do it, youd rather not. Smith called that a balancing factor in the decision process. Its cheaper in Alabama but the people want to stay in Colorado. Which one weighs more? Alabamas ban on abortions and Alabama U.S. Sen. Tommy Tubervilles freeze on military promotions over the Pentagons support of reproductive choice for enlisted personnel were both given as reasons for the reluctance to come South. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall said the disruption associated with moving the headquarters became a factor to consider. There would be some operational risk. President Biden making a final decision was the other major point of disagreement. Several members of the committee said theyd never seen a decision made like this. Weve made a political decision, not a competency decision, Alabama Congresswoman Terri Sewell said. Sewell, a Democrat, offered strong support to her Republican colleagues on the committee while saying President Biden still has her support on other issues. U.S. Rep. Doug Lamborn (R-Colo) said Chinas rapid growth in capabilities meant, We needed to accelerate and achieve Full Operating Capability. Moving would create risk. But U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville) questioned Space Command commanding Gen. James Dickinson and Kendall about the exact state of readiness in Colorado. He asked if workers were in trailers. Yes, mobile facilities was the answer. Backup power? Working on that. The newly appointed police chief and two of top deputies of Mississippis largest city visited Mobile on Thursday to examine how Alabamas Port city is addressing intelligence level policing and community engagement, among other things. Joseph Wade, police chief in Jackson, Miss., said his agency is looking for new and innovative ways to fight crime at a time when the states capitol city is battling a high murder rate, and as Mississippi officials face criticism for expanding a state-run police department within the overwhelmingly majority Black city of 146,000 residents. Wade praised Mobile police for what he said were new approaches at policing, and cited the Alabama agency as one in which his staff could benefit from visiting. We looked at several different departments and visited the local agencies in Mississippi we felt we could benefit from, said Wade, a 28-year veteran of the Jackson Police Department who was officially named its police chief last month. I wanted to reach out to an agency comparable with the Jackson Police Department and we targeted Mobile as somewhere we felt that we could benefit from visiting. Said Tyrone Buckley, deputy chief with the Jackson agency, about Mobile, you have a city that is getting it right. We saw some positive things in this city and are looking to see if we can get some information to help us with some of the things we are going through in our city. Recruitment, retention The visit from the Jackson officials comes at a time when Mobile and Jackson continue to struggle in finding enough police recruits to fill opened positions. The two chiefs said that recruitment and officer retention was also a subject they were discussing during their meeting. Jackson appears to be struggling more than Mobile. Wade said his city was originally budgeted for 304 officers, but the number dropped to 274, after Wade said his officers were granted a pay raise. The agency currently has 238 officers. Mobile is budgeted for 488 officers. It currently has 425, and Prine said its typical for the agency to be down 50 to 55 officers. Two years ago, we were averaging 70 officers down on the Police Department, he said. Slowly, (efforts) on recruitment and retention are working. We have a lot more work to do. Its becoming more problematic to find those highly qualified individuals to be in law enforcement today in this political climate. Homicides The visit from Jackson officials also comes as Mobile is experiencing an improvement in violent crime and homicide statistics over the past two years. The improvement comes as Mobiles population grew by adding 19,789 residents through a July annexation, to a new population of 204,689. The agency, which saw a spike in violent crime in 2021, was 30 percent down in the number of homicides so far in 2023, according to Police Chief Paul Prine. So far this year, there have been 23 homicides in Mobile. Prine said the drop is stark compared to 2021, when there were 51 homicides for the entire year. You can see the strategic plan the Mobile Police Department is certainly working, Prine said. Related content: Mobile, Birmingham police chiefs blast study showing cities most violent in nation Comparably, Jackson has 93 homicides during 2023, Wade said. We got to work on some type of changing the mindset of the culture of the city and take a strategic approach on addressing crime in the city, Wade said. We are looking at a strategic approach in dealing with (gun violence) and collaborative efforts with local, county, state and federal levels. We are looking to see what we can gather (in Mobile) and bring back to Jackson to get our crime situation under control. Capitol Police Officers from the state-run Capitol Police and the city-run Jackson Police Department stand watch outside a Jackson, Miss., church where a community meeting was held to addresses youth crime issues Feb. 14, 2023. At the meeting, the audience also heard about the role of both police departments in Mississippi's majority-Black capital city. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis, File)AP Policing strategies in Mississippi have come under fire this year, creating a rift between the Capitol City that is over 80% Black, and the majority-white Republican-controlled Mississippi state House and Senate. Jackson is governed by Democrats and has the largest percentage of Black residents of any major U.S. city. Mobiles demographics, even after annexation, remains majority Black. It was 52% Black, 42% white before the July vote. The biggest concern in Jackson, according to media reports, appears to be the addition and jurisdictional expansion of the Capitol Police, a state-run policing agency. Republican Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves signed legislation in April to expand the agencys boundaries, urging that Jackson has to be better. The move prompted the NAACP to file a lawsuit arguing that state officials violated the principle of self-government by removing policing and some of the courts of out the hands of residents. Neither Mobile nor any other city in Alabama is faced with a similar situation. Im more of the mindset that we have to have collaborative efforts, Wade said. They are policing in my backyard. We have to share information and have dialogues on how we work together. The criminal element does not have about jurisdictional boundaries. He added, When we are feuding in law enforcement, the criminal element is allowed to prosper. We will work collectively as we move forward with the Capitol Police in Jackson. A woman is dead and a man suspected of shooting his mother in Alabama was injured after the pair were involved in a shootout with Arkansas sheriffs deputies following a chase there that spanned three counties, authorities said Thursday. Tami Nayler, 47, died after she was shot by the deputies following the pursuit that ended early Wednesday morning in Cross County, Arkansas, according to the Arkansas State Police. William Burchett, 54, who is a suspect in the shooting of his mother in Hokes Bluff, in Etowah County, was injured in the shootout, the agency said. Burchett was taken to St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro, Arkansas with unspecified injuries. It was unclear why the pair was in Arkansas, but state police said the vehicle Burchett and Nayler were in led law enforcement on a pursuit that started in Crittenden County, crossed into a rural section of Poinsett County and ended in Cross County, where spike strips were deployed on Highway 75. Burchett and Nayler fired on deputies, according to state police, prompting the officers to return shots. No deputies were injured in the incident, which the state police is investigating, the agency said. Further information was unavailable. Six people are facing federal charges in connection with murder-for-hire plots that led to the deaths of two people and injuries to several others in shootings at two Mobile nightclubs and a Gulf Coast Mississippi casino, according to court records. The six defendants -- John Fitzgerald McCarroll; Reginald Dennis Alan Fluker; Darrius Dwayne Rowser; Karmelo Cortez Morris Derks; Jimaurice Pierce; and Lyteria Isheeia Hollis -- were indicted under seal on Sunday because they had not been arrested at the time of the charges, records showed. The case was unsealed on Tuesday. The indictment filed in Mobile federal court did not provide any details about the incidents and only listed victims by their initials. According to the indictment, four people were injured and two people were killed in Alabama and Mississippi in connection with the conspiracy. Fox 10 reported the indictments stem from the shootings at Bank Nightclub and Paparazzi Club in Mobile and the Scarlet Pearl Casino in DIberville, Mississippi and that authorities labeled McCarroll as the mastermind of the incidents. Derek Shavers died after he was shot at Bank Nightclub on Sept. 18, 2022, while four people were injured in the Paparazzi Club shooting in November, including one critically. Nicholaus Nick Craig, a Mobile native who was a California resident at the time of his death, was shot while sitting in his car in the parking lot of the Scarlet Pearl casino in DIberville in September 2022. Craig stopped at the casino with his girlfriend and had planned to later drive to Mobile to celebrate his birthday with his family, WLOX reported. Three of the defendants -- Derks, Pierce and Rowser -- were already facing state charges in connection with the Mobile Walmart shooting in December that injured two people. Two defendants -- McCarroll and Rowser -- were also previously charged by Mobile police in connection with the November shooting at the Paparazzi Club. McCarroll, Fluker, Rowser, Pierce and Hollis were federally indicted Sunday with conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire. McCarroll and Fluker also face murder-for-hire charges that prosecutors say led to the death of one of the people with the same initials listed in the conspiracy charge. Rowser and Derks were charged with conspiracy to commit carjacking and interstate transportation of a stolen vehicle involving a 2010 blue Nissan Altima driven from Mobile to DIberville, Mississippi, according to the indictment. McCarroll and Rowser were charged with murder-for-hire in connection with an incident that injured four people. McCarroll and Hollis, who Fox 10 identified as McCarrolls girlfriend, were also charged with obstruction and witness tampering. Meanwhile, Pierce was charged with possession of an unregistered firearm and illegal possession of a machinegun for allegedly having a Glock switch. After a fatal boat crash on Halls Mill Creek last month, Mobile residents are looking to implement more no wake zones in Halls Mill Creek and Rabbit Creek, Mobile City Councilmember Ben Reynolds, who represents the area, said. There are narrow parts of rivers, and there are sharp curves of rivers, Reynolds said. If everybody is speeding or not paying the sort of attention they should, it can become a hazard. A known, posted no wake zone slows everybody down. Reynolds says hes received calls from residents wanting to implement Idle Speed, No Wake zones, where boats have to drive at the slowest possible speed while still being able to steer, as well as speed control zones in order to prevent more accidents from happening. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agencys Marine Patrol Division determines what areas are designated as no wake zones. Reynolds says hes been in contact with ALEA to start evaluating Rabbit Creek and Halls Mill Creek for no wake zones and is in the process of submitting maps to the agency. Anybody can submit a request to ALEA for them to consider it, Reynolds said. I suggest, if you have an area of concern, that you submit it to them have them look at it. Theyre the ones who know this stuff. Two Mobile County sisters were arrested after they allegedly burglarized a mans trailer and beat him after falsely believing he had a role in their mothers death, authorities said Wednesday. Vacoreia Pritchett, 28, and Valandra Pritchett, 33, were charged with first-degree burglary in connection with the incident in Grand Bay, according to the Mobile County Sheriffs Office, as reported by Fox 10. The sheriffs office could not be reached to confirm the sisters arrests. The sisters targeted the victim because they believed he was responsible for the death of their mother, 55-year-old Vicki Pritchett, whose body was found near her home in Grand Bay earlier this month, the sheriffs office said. No foul play was suspected in Vicki Pritchetts death, the sheriffs office said at the time. On Wednesday, the office said there was no evidence that the man allegedly burglarized and beaten by the sisters had any connection to Pritchetts death. A Montgomery woman was convicted by a federal jury Wednesday of defrauding the Paycheck Protection Program of nearly $610,000, prosecutors said. Zsa Zsa Bouvier Couch, 55, was found guilty of multiple county of bank fraud, making false statements to a federally insured bank and money laundering, said Sandra J. Stewart, U.S. attorney for the Middle District of Alabama. Couch submitted at least six fraudulent applications for loans under the PPP and sought $1.6 million in program funds. In each application, the Montgomery woman falsely inflated the number of employees who worked for her purported business and the business average monthly payroll, according to prosecutors. The false statements led Couch to qualify for larger PPP amounts than she was eligible to receive. Ultimately, Couch received $609,687.47 in PPP funds. Instead of using the money for a business, she instead used the cash to pay herself, her husband and other family members and buy luxury vehicles. Couch made other false statements on the applications, including omitting that she applied for multiple PPP loans for the same business. She also did not discluse her common ownership of multiple businesses. The United States Attorneys Office is committed to detecting, investigating, and prosecuting individuals who exploit public benefit programs, said Stewart. My office will continue to work with law enforcement partners to safeguard all tax dollars, especially programs dedicated to help businesses deal with economic hardships during times of crisis. This conviction underscores our unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that those who engage in fraudulent activities meant to exploit the CARES Acts provisions are held accountable for their actions, added Paul Brown, special agent in charge with the FBIs Mobile office. This accomplishment would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of our law enforcement partners. We understand the significance of CARES Act funds in supporting individuals and businesses during these challenging times, and we will continue to be vigilant in our efforts to hold accountable any individuals or entities engaged in fraudulent activities related to CARES Act relief programs. The growing presence of Church International is palpable in Warrior, Alabama. The town of roughly 3,200 north of Birmingham is quiet. But, for the past two and a half years, the independent, nondenominational church has been rapidly buying up land totaling at least $6 million spent on about 20 parcels of property in the town since 2021 sparking many residents to ask why. Church representatives are expected to present their plans at a public zoning meeting tonight at Warrior City Hall. Heres what we know about Church International and its leap to fame: Who leads Church International? Warrior Mayor Johnny Ragland (far right) gave an introduction at Church International on Aug. 10 to those attending its Gathering of Tribal Nations event. (Screenshot from Church International Facebook page) Married couple Robin R. Bullock, the pastor, and Robin D. Bullock, the prophet, lead the church. They grew up and met in Blount County, and married young in 1979. After pursuing a music career in Nashville as a gospel duo called Twice Robin, they started their ministry for youth, originally called Youth Force Ministries, in Warrior in 1988. Then, in 1996, they expanded to a full-fledged church called Church International. Their formal nonprofit became Youth Force Ministries Church International, Inc. Read more: The mysterious church buying up a town in Alabama: What is it about Warrior? The church went viral a few years ago. How? Leading up to the 2020 presidential election, Robin D. Bullock spoke at Church International about his prophecies that former president Donald Trump would be re-elected and the Democratic Party would go underground. On Jan. 6, 2021, when Trump supporters swarmed the U.S. Capitol as congressional Democrats counted electoral college votes, Robin D. Bullock attended the rally outside. His prophecies about politics and the election went viral on social media. Suddenly, the church had a much bigger reach, more church members and more money, Bullock has said through his attorney in court filings. Alabama is investigating the church. Why? Last December, the Alabama Department of Revenue subpoenaed Robin D. Bullock and requested financial records for the church and his biblical course program, called Over the Top Bible College. It was part of an ongoing investigation into charitable fraud and self-dealing, per court records. But Bullock did not provide fully unredacted documents, including donor names, so the state sued Bullock in late May. The case is active in Jefferson County court. The church has been buying up property. Where? And what for? Warrior is located about a 30 minute drive north of Birmingham in Jefferson County. (Ramsey Archibald | rarchibald@al.com) Since early 2021, the churchs nonprofit made about a dozen deals for about 20 different pieces of property, county records show. A large furniture store including six separate parcels in Warrior cost $4 million alone, which is notable in a town this size. Another was the $400,000 house to be used as a church parsonage, where the Bullocks live. The church also spent another $2 million on a house and large property in neighboring Trafford, bringing their total land purchases to over $8 million in about two and a half years. In a letter to Warrior Mayor Johnny Ragland, an attorney for the church said they want to empower business visionaries to fulfill their dreams in Warrior and lease their properties to new businesses. Bullock, through his attorney, also said in a court filing that the church plans to use the land to spread Christianity, open a domestic violence support center and prevent any abortion clinics from locating in Warrior. Check out this map to see the full list of the church-owned properties. What dont we know? IRS records dont show any publicly available tax documents for Church Internationals nonprofit in the past five years. That means we dont know how much the church receives in donations or exactly how it spends that money. We dont know how the church is currently using all of its real estate, or if it has plans to buy more land. Church International spent $400,000 on a home now featured on the towns web site as the parsonage, where the Bullocks live.Amanda Khorramabadi | akhorramabadi@al.com Whats next? So far, the states lawsuit against Robin D. Bullock is unresolved, with a status hearing scheduled for Nov. 3. Jefferson County Judge Brendette Brown Green hasnt yet responded to the states request to hold Bullock in contempt for not responding in full to the subpoena and to order him to provide a completely unredacted copy of the documentation. The Alabama Democratic Partys Black caucus said it will propose a redistricting map next week that includes a new Second Congressional District with more Black voters than any of the three plans drawn up by a special master. The ADC map, which is being fine tuned, according to ADC Chairman Joe Reed, will be part of the caucus objection to Special Master Richard Allens three plans. Those plans came after a mandate by a three-judge federal court found two Legislature-drawn maps likely violate the Voting Rights Act by diluting the power of Black voters. The objection is expected to be filed Friday with the map scheduled to be submitted next week. On Tuesday, Reed said the ADC map will be similar to the one proposed by Sen. Kirk Hatcher, D-Montgomery, over the summer in the legislative special session called by Gov. Kay Ivey to address redistricting. We think the Alabama Democratic Conference plan is the best plan, and were going to be saying that to the court as well, Reed told reporters in Montgomery. The ADC plan, Reed said, would include a second majority-Black congressional district with Black voters comprising 54 percent of the district. In simulations using the new proposed district boundaries, a Democrat won the district 17 out of 17 times, according to Reed. The ADC chairman said Allens three maps, which include Black voting populations close to 50 percent across the three maps, falls short of the Constitution and it falls short of Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, but did not elaborate on why the ADC holds that belief. The group will attempt to persuade the three-judge court to adopt the ADC plan. Were confident that the Alabama Democratic Conference plan is the best plan on the market. And thats because thats the plan where a Black can win a congressional seat, he said. We have a chance now to get a congressperson that is Black folks choice. It doesnt have to be Black, it could be Black or white, but in all likelihood there will be enough Blacks running that itll be a Black out there facing the voters. Under the ADC plan, more than 100,000 Black voters in Mobile County -- who currently vote in the First Congressional District -- would be part of a new Second Congressional District, which would be the states second majority-Black district along with the Birmingham- and Black Belt-based Seventh Congressional District. We have a comfortable feeling about where we are, Reed said. We just hope the court will listen to us when that times come. By some estimates, there are thirty million illegal aliens in the United States. Illegals have been pouring in at the rate of at least two million a year, and now that influx is being deliberately increased. Leftists want to give them amnesty. Illegals are being issued driver's licenses. Illegals will also be allowed to vote in municipal elections. They are even being given payments, which will ensure they'll vote Democrat. Does anyone doubt that mail-in shenanigans are planned for the 2024 election? Leftists are willing to intentionally demolish this country if that's what it takes to stay in power. Inevitably, the day will come when the government will be forced to control the border. We will then be stuck with all the illegal aliens who made it in. To nobody's surprise, the government has "lost track" of most of them. I'd like to propose a model for decisively dealing with these illegal aliens once the border is finally secure. Here are some of the necessary, commonsense measures we'll need. First, these basic immigration laws should be instituted immediately: No "sanctuary states" or "sanctuary cities" will be permitted. Federal immigration law supersedes state and local laws. Any state or city proclaiming itself a "sanctuary" for illegal aliens will forfeit all federal funding for that state. States or cities trying to thwart Border Patrol or ICE enforcement will similarly lose all federal funding for that state. "Birthright citizenship" for the children of illegal aliens born in the U.S. must be abolished immediately. No child of an illegal alien will qualify as a U.S. citizen simply by being born on U.S. soil. No more "birth tourism" the practice of coming to the U.S. on a visa, giving birth while here, and the child automatically becomes a U.S. citizen. Only the children of permanent, legal immigrants will have birthright citizenship. "Chain migration" the practice of expediting the immigration of the extended families of immigrants must be abolished immediately. That system has been deliberately abused and needs to be scrapped, or at least revamped with tightened controls. "Asylum" rules must be strictly enforced and significantly tightened. Migrants shouldn't be allowed to cross several other countries to seek asylum in the U.S. Economic reasons at home, or nebulous claims of "being afraid," do not justify asylum. Asylum must be restricted to defined, demonstrable emergencies only, not abused to facilitate easy entry into the U.S., as it is now. There will be no "expedited citizenship process," or "amnesty," for any illegal alien, no matter how long he's been in the country or how he got here. Criminal behavior must not be rewarded, and aliens who broke the law cannot be allowed to "cut the line" ahead of law-abiding immigrants. Second, we need a process to deal with illegal aliens who are already here. I suggest something along these lines: A "deadline date" would be selected by which all illegal aliens must leave the U.S. or register. This includes DACA recipients, people already granted temporary asylum, those who have pending immigration court dates, and any other illegal alien whose status has not been fully, legally settled. This registration would be done, in person, at the local city hall, and a special card, with a photo and a biometric fingerprint, would be issued to the registrant to carry. This registration would be kept on file by the federal government so local authorities can verify an identity through a photo and fingerprint if no card is present. Immediately after the deadline date, an active effort to verify immigration status and apprehend unregistered illegal aliens must begin. After the deadline date, anyone entering the U.S. illegally for any reason, and anyone who has already entered but failed to register, will be arrested and summarily deported. He will permanently forfeit any opportunity for future legal immigration. Future attempts by that person to illegally immigrate would result in jail time in the U.S., followed by immediate deportation. Anyone harboring or employing an unregistered illegal alien would face jail time. Anyone who entered the U.S. illegally during the six months prior to the deadline date, but who registers by the deadline date, won't be allowed to stay, but he will be allowed two months to leave the country. He would qualify for government assistance to return home if he cannot afford to do so (flying him home is cheaper than keeping him). This help must be requested before the two-month time limit expires, and the request will be noted in his record. However, because he cooperated with the process and registered, he will still be allowed to apply for entry after he goes home. Aliens who can prove they entered the U.S. illegally more than six months prior to the deadline date, but who register by the deadline date, will be offered a choice: a. If they return home within two months, they will still be allowed to apply for entry after they return home. They also qualify for government assistance to return home if they cannot afford to do so on their own. b. If they want to stay because of roots they've set down in the U.S. while they were here illegally, they can stay. However, they will not be allowed to vote in any election. They will not be eligible for Social Security, a regular driver's license, welfare, or food stamps. They will not receive cash handouts, "free phones," or other such benefits. These aliens can apply for legal entry while they stay, but they will start that process at the end of the line. These aliens cannot be allowed the opportunity to "cut the line" ahead of legal immigrants who applied for citizenship, waited their turn, and obeyed U.S. law. They will not receive any of the rights accorded to legal immigrants until they have fully completed the legal immigration process. Note: The only exception to this "benefit ban" should be this: an illegal alien who is registered and allowed to stay may apply for a special, boldly marked "driving permit" so he can be employed and pay taxes, but not a regular driver's license. No illegal alien will be counted in the U.S. Census. Instead, a separate tally of registered illegal aliens allowed to stay will be kept by the federal government. The practice of adding illegal aliens to the Census for the purpose of increasing representation in Congress and adding electoral votes will be outlawed. States caught adding illegals to their census numbers will lose federal funding. Any illegal alien, registered or not, caught trying to be counted in the Census will be deported and lose the right to apply for citizenship later. Any illegal alien caught trying to vote in any election, whether federal, state, or local, will be deported and lose the right to apply for citizenship later. The corrupt politicians who've deliberately caused this crisis don't want it solved, but it must be solved. If Republicans can take power in 2024, we need to demand that they adopt a solid plan to solve this problem and act on it immediately. Image: woodleywonderworks via Flickr, CC BY 2.0. The appearance of Ebrahim Raisi, the Butcher of Tehran, at the United Nations underscores even further, if such is possible, the UNs complete lack of legitimacy as any kind of international organization. Raisi was a member of Tehrans Death Commission, which oversaw the 1988 massacre in which thirty thousand people were murdered. He is no better than the Nazis who were hanged after the Nuremberg trials, and hopefully his own people will someday give him the Pierrepoint (not Pierrepont) necktie he deserves. This underscores the need for proper spelling because one little letter is the difference between a fashionable garment and a broken neck. There is ample precedent in the form of what the Italian people finally did when they brought Benito Mussolini to justice. The fact that the United Nations even invited this depraved enemy of humanity to speak there is disgusting enough as it is, but even more so that the Biden administration admitted him to our country. While the United States must unfortunately allow ambassadors from the worlds worst human rights violators like Russia, Iran, and Communist China inside our borders, it does have the power to declare particularly unsavory individuals persona non grata: As a legal term, it refers to the practice of a state prohibiting a diplomat from entering the country as a diplomat, or censuring a diplomat already resident in the country for conduct unbecoming of the status of a diplomat. The values of the United States do not welcome child rapists, terrorists, human traffickers or, in Raisis case, torturers of women. Excerpted below is a report on the testimony of a victim, Farideh Goudarzi: She detailed abuses at the hands of her captors, including Raisi, who she said watched on as she was tortured by being flogged with electric cables in a tiny, blood-splattered room. When this Dark Age savage says something will cost you an arm and a leg, he means it, literallyRaisi has not put an end to the practice of amputations as punishment. From a Providence Magazine article last year: President Ebrahim Raisi, who was directly involved in the mass executions of thousands of political prisoners in the 1980s and later served as the head of the Judiciary, declared himself proud to use corporal punishment against thieves and burglars. As he put it, thanks to the blessing of the Islamic Revolution, carrying out [such a] divine punishment has been practiced since the establishment of the revolution. It is one of our biggest honors to carry out divine punishment. The U.N. has meanwhile degraded itself irremediably by tolerating, until recently, Iran on the U.N. Womens Rights Commission. This is the same medieval outhouse country, and I am using the family-friendly version of the label President Trump used, that imposes medieval punishments as noted above, for both real and imaginary offenses. When I say outhouse country I am not referring to the people; my own ancestors emigrated from an outhouse country long ago. The Russian Empire, including Ukraine, Poland, and the Baltic countries, was an excellent place to be from (but no longer in) if you were a Jew or a Pole. Iran is similarly a great place to be from, especially for women. The Biden administration should have never allowed this criminal into the United States in the first place, and the fact that it did should be a major talking point in the 2024 electionespecially if former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley is the Republican nominee. Haley called upon the Biden administration to deny Raisi an entry visa in 2022, and also called for Irans removal from a womens commission: Having the fanatical Iranian dictatorship sit on a commission focused on womens rights has always been a joke. Its even worse with the murder of Mahsa Amini. When Raisi got up to speak, Biden appointee Linda Thomas-Greenfield, along with the ambassadors from every other civilized nation on the planet had a duty to either get up and walk out, or else turn their backs and remove their headphones so as not to hear one single word this despotic savage had to say; yet, none of them did. They sat there and afforded him respect owed to civilized human beings rather than the enemy of the human species that he is. As matters stand, only Israels ambassador, Gilad Erdan, stood up for human rights, womens rights, and the United Nationss purported values by holding up a picture of Mahsa Amini and then walking around the auditorium, for all to see. Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, held up a photo of #MahsaAmini during Ebrahim Raisi's speech at the #UNGA. More of this, please! pic.twitter.com/fVhzjXbOOM Sarah Raviani (@sarahraviani) September 19, 2023 Rudyard Kiplings The Drums of the Fore and Aft is about an inexperienced and undisciplined British regiment that runs from the enemy during a battle in Afghanistan. Two other regiments, one Scottish and the other Gurkha, wanted to fight but the Fore and Aft ran away. The disgraced regiments two drummer boys, however, stood in the open alone and played The British Grenadiers, successfully rallying the fugitives: The Fore and Aft were pouring out of the valley. What officers had said to men in that time of shame and humiliation will never be known; for neither officers nor men speak of it now. The two boys were then killed by the first enemy volley, but they had done their work: Half the men had seen the drummers die, and they made no sign. They did not even shout. They doubled out straight across the plain in open order, and they did not fire. The Fore and Aft held their fire till one bullet could drive through five or six men, and the front of the Afghan force gave on the volley. Erdan, of course, did not have to sacrifice his life to set a similar example, but anybody who claims to support human rights should now be similarly ashamed to not follow it. This includes the numerous womens and gender studies departments that bash Israel on a routine basis, but none of which apparently showed up to protest against Raisi. The next time they open their blattering pie holes, we need to ask them publicly where they were when Israel stood up for human rights, which of course includes women and the gender dysphoric. The same goes for Israel-bashing Middle East Studies departments, and of course every single European Union government, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and the United States itself. Erdan shamed us all and, if we want to retain any respect for ourselves, we now need to follow his example. As Kipling concluded his story: But some say, and among these be the Gurkhas who watched on the hillside, that that battle was won by Jakin and Lew, whose little bodies were borne up just in time to fit two gaps at the head of the big ditch-grave for the dead under the heights of Jagai. Civis Americanus is the pen name of a contributor who remembers the lessons of history, and wants to ensure that our country never needs to learn those lessons again the hard way. He or she is remaining anonymous due to the likely prospect of being subjected to cancel culture for exposing the Big Lie behind Black Lives Matter. Image from X. President Joe Biden has become a joke, confabulating tall tales about his past political exploits, shaking hands with phantoms, not shaking hands with world leaders, getting lost on stage, and frequently falling. These are all clear signs of his physical and mental decline, obvious to all but his most partisan enablers and sycophants. He has announced his candidacy for reelection, but that is as credible as Jack Nicklaus announcing a run for the US Open next spring. The only question is how Joe exits the presidency and campaign, whether voluntary or by his handlers making him an offer he cant refuse. The latest polls should be a bucket of cold water on Bidens aspirations and the hopes and dreams of his enablers. A recent ABC News/Washington Post poll suggests the turkey in the oven is done, ready for carving. Mind you, any political poll is merely a snapshot in time, the sentiments of voters, or whoever was surveyed, in late September 2023, more than a year from the next election. YouTube screen grab The headline says it all, Trump edges out Biden 51-42 in head-to-head matchup. The normally Biden-worshiping ABC News doesnt hold back. President Joe Biden's job approval rating is 19 points underwater, his ratings for handling the economy and immigration are at career lows. A record number of Americans say they've become worse off under his presidency, three-quarters say he's too old for another term and Donald Trump is looking better in retrospect -- all severe challenges for Biden in his reelection campaign ahead. This reinforces the question that Trump and Republicans should be constantly asking, Are you better off today than you were four years ago? Clearly the answer is no. The Washington Post claims this is an outlier but acknowledges, Biden is broadly unpopular and doubts about his suitability for a second term are extensive. In their hearts they believe Biden is beloved and trouncing Trump in the polls, just as they believe Ukraine is winning the war despite loads of evidence to the contrary. The Washington Examiner ran this headline, Biden poll freakout reflecting Democrats having seizures over the poll results. This is not some Qanon MAGA poll, as it was commissioned by two left-wing news organizations, ABC News and the Washington Post. Of those polled, 50 percent voted for Biden in 2020, only 46 percent for Trump, meaning this poll oversampled Biden supporters. When in doubt about the diagnosis, get a second opinion. Rasmussen Reports Daily Presidential Tracking Poll confirms. On September 22, Bidens total approval sits at 45 percent compared to Trump at 52 percent. Looking at negatives instead, 45 percent strongly disapprove of Bidens performance versus only 25 percent strongly disapproving of Trumps performance, a 20-point difference. NBC News, another Democrat party superPAC, has similar dismal news for the donkey party. In their poll, Three-quarters of voters say theyre concerned about President Joe Bidens age and mental fitness. They also note, The warning signs for Biden beyond his age including an all-time high disapproval of his job performance, fewer than 4 in 10 voters approving of his handling of the economy and lagging interest in the election among key parts of the Democratic base. There is also bad news for the GOP establishment, The poll also shows Trump expanding his national lead in the Republican presidential nominating contest to more than 40 points over his nearest competition. Lastly there is the HarrisX poll from mid-September showing Trump with a 5 point lead over Biden (46-41) and even more concerning to Democrats, an 8 point Trump lead among independents (42-34). Say it aint so Joe. Why is lunch bucket Joe, the Scranton Kid, sinking faster than the Titanic? Start with Its the economy stupid as the Bill Clinton campaign reminded a few decades ago. That reminder came from James Carville, architect of Clintons campaign. Today he sees the current Biden campaign clearly, speaking recently on a Bill Maher podcast, People need to wake the f-ck up when it comes to the 2024 election because President Joe Biden would lose to former President Donald Trump if the election were held this year. Everything costs more gas, food, homes, mortgages, cars, and other necessities. Crime is rising to the point that major American cities are becoming unlivable hellholes, dystopian movie sets rather than the America many of us grew up in. Young men from all over the world are pouring into the country by the thousands each and every day, sent to a city near you, enjoying life on your dime, free to steal, rape, or murder with little repercussion. Our national debt is over $33 trillion, growing by $5 billion a day, with interest payments costing taxpayers almost $2 billion each day. We are close to entering a hot war with Russia, nukes and all, and a new world order is forming, with the United States on the outside looking in. Our military is more concerned with gender pronouns and male officers wearing dresses than combat and weapon readiness. Fentanyl is killing our youth and all the government can say is get yet another COVID booster shot. And Biden family corruption is clear as Rep James Comer presented bank records showing wire transfers from Beijing to Joe Bidens home in Delaware. In the 2020 presidential debates, Biden told Trump, "I have not taken a penny from any foreign source ever in my life. Oh really? So, what are Democrats to do? In the ABC News survey, when asked who besides Biden they would like the Democrat party to nominate, just someone else was the clear winner with 20 percent, the other prospects in single digits. Given the choice of nominating Biden or someone else, someone else beat Biden 62 to 33 percent. Get ready for Trump versus someone else next year. Losing to Trump is unthinkable which is why Democrats politicized and weaponized FBI, DOJ, and legal system are attempting to send Trump to prison for the next thousand years. Trump is a force of nature with tremendous support of the people, and most of the Republican party. Country club Republicans still hold out hope for Ron DeSantis, polling at 15 percent in the ABC News poll, or Nikki Haley, Mike Pence, or Tim Scott, all in single digits in their audition for Trumps VP spot. The easy path for Biden is to resign due to health reasons and to spend more time with the family. Does that mean more foreign influence peddling with son Hunter or showers with daughter Ashley? He could pardon his entire corrupt family on the way out and live out his days on a Delaware beach eating ice cream. The harder path involves impeachment, which the Republicans threaten, but like most other campaign promises, often forget about. Even if they impeach him, Senate conviction is unlikely, as Republicans like Senator Mitt Romney claim to have not seen any evidence of Biden wrongdoing and Democrat senators will never help reach the required two-thirds supermajority. Better to let the Democrats do the dirty work via the 25th Amendment, although Joe would likely resign before enduring that indignity. Joe recently received the latest COVID booster, and the annual flu vaccine and he could be one of many who suffer disability or mortality after such injections, stepping down for health reasons. Clearly the Democrats are on the ropes. They can try their election cheating and rigging again, but the Trump campaign will likely be ready for that and already have counter measures in place. Or is it time for a Democrat change of batter? Names like Gavin Newsom, Michelle Obama, and Gretchen Whitmer have been bandied about. Sleepy Joe is on the ropes and another Trump term is unthinkable for Democrats and the bipartisan ruling class. As Trump would say, Lets see what happens. Brian C Joondeph, MD, is a physician and writer. Follow me on Twitter @retinaldoctor Substack Dr. Brians Substack Truth Social @BrianJoondeph LinkedIn @Brian Joondeph I caught the second half of the Republican presidential debate held at the Reagan Library, starting with the part when Mike Pence was studiously avoiding a pointed question about what he would do about DACA, the illegal executive order put out by President Obama to make illegal immigrants brought to the U.S. as children exempt from deportation and allowed to work. That was about how it went with the debate, with lots of canned answers and seven candidates saying what they thought GOP voters wanted to hear. There were fights over trivial stupid matters. There were people shouting over each other and frustrated moderators trying to restore order. There was Chris Christie doing his anti-Trump schtick. There was television time for candidates who had no chance at all of winning, clogging up the airtime. Once again, the only winner was President Trump. I listened to this as though it were a vice presidential audition, or an understudy audition, in case the left really did manage to knock President Trump out of the race. But in general, it seemed to be pretty futile. The biggest loser was probably Mike Pence, who came off as so dull and anodyne and slow-thinking he was a one-man ratings depressants. My eyes glazed over every time he made an extended intro about his background instead of just answering the question. That he avoided answering tough questions like DACA made him come off as a coward. And it was intriguing how he touted the success of his term as vice president under President Trump as "our administration." He was hitching his star to Trump's achievements, in other words. Chris Christie was another eye-roller. His attacks on President Trump were so annoying and hypocritical it was impossible to follow him. I heard he made some good points but I was too offended to listen. The North Dakota guy? He tried to interject here and there, but c'mon -- he's not going to win. Tim Scott was another non-winner. I thought he did well in the first debate, but in the second, he was just recyling a lot of old stuff about his upbringing and the damage the Great Society did on the black family, which is perfectly true, but not news to Republicans. He lacked energy, and worse still, went off on a fact-challenged attack on Nikki Haley that fell flat as she refuted each of his points irrefutably. Those refutations, by the way, were in the news at the time so he was repeating debunked stories. Sad. Vivek Ramaswamy made his good points but was unable to explain how he would execute them perhaps owing to time constraints. And nobody asked him how he thought he would be able to dismantle the deep state in an instant when we all know how hard President Trump tried with effort in the last administration. He's an 'if I ran the world' kind of dreamer. His proposal to effectively leave Taiwan to its fate wasn't smart either. Nikki Haley was less of a loser to my mind -- she was energetic, she was well briefed and her policy proposals were generally good, other than her neocon argument about endless support for Ukraine. I didn't see the first part of the debate but I understand she launched a lot of nitpicky attacks on the others, which likely would have been useless nonsense. The GOP should be uniting at this point, not ripping itself apart. Ron DeSantis probably had the best night -- he was energetic, well briefed, and good at defending his record. He did avoid or didn't get enough time to explain a charge that he shut down fracking in Florida. It would have been good to hear an explanation on that one. But his talk about shutting the border was on point, his vow to go after cartels and denunciations of fentanyl imports was pretty good and he was spirited and animated. He reminds us why we like him. The debate did lack some points that GOP voters do consider important - about election fraud, the weaponization of the Department of Justice. and whether voters should pick these candidates instead of Trump to protect Trump. It would have been good to hear about these white hot issues because voters are thinking about them but the Fox News hosts must have had their marching orders. Here are some good observations from others who saw the debate: They are doing this for the donors and consultants cause its a business .. candidates CommonSenseAmerican (@CommonSens19282) September 28, 2023 A political analyst asked me this morning, "Why did no one on stage commandeer a response at some point to say, 'We haven't yet talked about the weaponization of the Department of Justice and how much destruction they're causing the country.'" https://t.co/bByPSZM1s4 Mollie (@MZHemingway) September 28, 2023 Re debate: Honestly, nothing personal, but I felt Nikki Haley won the obnoxious title in this debate. Lots of personal attacks. Her record as governor is also quite weak. Scott began to address it. Pence, Burgham, Christie need to go. DeSantis was very solid. Actually got a bit Mark R. Levin (@marklevinshow) September 28, 2023 Image: Twitter screen shot Now that the phony case against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is over, it's worth looking at why this happened, given that the impeachment with the state's GOP-led Senate didn't make sense at all. Paxton had been a good attorney general, challenging the Bidenites and all their dishonest border maneuvers. Yet suddenly, Paxton found himself in the dock on charges so flimsy witnesses admitted they had no evidence, only hunches. it's not surprising he was acquitted, just on fact alone. But the broad picture was still weird: Paxton was charged with corruption after all that good work? Obviously, strange things were going on under the surface in Texas politics. In a podcast with John Solomon of JustTheNews, Paxton speculated that it seemed to be a group effort spearheaded by Karl Rove, acting on behalf of his pals in the Bush family. The Bushes are all in for open borders. And they're deep in the various post-office money rackets. Maybe Paxton was stepping on their toes on some real estate deal or the like. Which might explain why they were enemies looking to politically take him out. It was as good a guess as any, because Paxton says his next move it to go after a huge illegal alien shantytown that is spreading just north of Houston. According to the Montgomery County Police Reporter: Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton spoke out about the controversial Colony Ridge undocumented immigrant favela, a settlement outside Houston that has between 50,000 and 75,000 undocumented migrants and spans nearly 60 square miles, roughly the size of Washington, D.C. In an interview with Michael Berrys radio show, Paxton said he had received a briefing on the favela and commented that it was completely insane that they can set up these villages with illegal immigrants. However, the attorney general stated that there is no clear path to address the problem or stop the growth of this favela that has led to an increase in crime in the area. The legislature could address this and should address this. Because right now, we dont have a real clear path to being able to stop it, even though its completely insane that they can set up these villages with illegal immigrants, Paxton said. We can maybe affect the financing or the financial aspect of it to some degree but I dont think right now the legislature has given me the authority to do anything about it, Paxton added. So were looking at whether we have some authority to do something with deceptive trade practices. The attorney generals statements come days after the Republican survived a historic and failed impeachment trial in the state legislature. The attorney general is not the only conservative leader who has spoken out about Colony Ridge in recent days as the immigration crisis deepens. For example, Florida Governor and presidential candidate Ron DeSantis blamed weak leadership for allowing and facilitating sprawling developments to house thousands of illegal immigrants who have broken our nations laws. The independent media Daily Wire, which conducted research on Colony Ridge, called the favela a massive housing development north of Houston thats become a hub for illegal immigrants thanks to financing methods that circumvent any need for proof-of-citizenship documents. From John Solomon's JustTheNews podcast, Paxton laid out the priority he placed on going after this illegal migrant settlement -- some snippets are here. The border has only gotten worse since I was out, we're going to fight the Biden administration on that, it's hard to believe what they are doing to this country ... We've got a lot to do, not just Texas, but what kind of country are we going to end up being? ... One of our top priorities to understand that problem and figure out if there is a mechanism by which our office can intervene. If we can't, obviously we can look to the legislature... We are looking at all our options. ... I think there is, I mean, look at what the Biden administration did just recently -- Texas was trying to head off immigration, bob wire was put up, and the federal government cut it down to let everybody in. They are supposed to be helping us, not the cartels. The way it's working now, this won't just affect border states, it will affect the entire country...The Biden administration is a catalyst and is the partner of the cartels in Mexico. So if someone on the inside of Bush clan had a financial interest in that vast shantytown illegally spreading north of Houston, maybe Paxton was a problem who needed to be taken out. It's just a guess. But Paxton's own statements that the Bush crowd was behind this suggests they wanted to stop him for something. And Paxton just happens to want to investigate why a fourth-world shantytown is springing up north of Houston. Paxton is right that the gargantuan shantytown is a new phenomenon and its stylistics could easily spread to other cities, making each blue city fully surrounded by a ring of shacks as far as the eye could see. If that happens, cities in the U.S. will be little different from the shantytown-encircled cities of Latin America. This is how it starts, and Paxton is right to want to get to the bottom of it. If he succeeds, he will defeat his political enemies and the entire country can thank him. Image: Screen shot from WFAA YouTube video. Hunter Biden was recently indicted on a gun charge, as everyone knows. This has led to a spate of articles claiming that Joe Biden is worried that he will die before his sons legal problems are resolved. Well, dont let the unquestioning media dupes fool you. Hunter Biden has already been pardoned. That pardon is sitting in Joe Bidens desk drawer or office safe. Hunter Biden likely even has a copy of this pardon in his own possession. Despite the media sense of self-importance, one is pardoned when the President signs the pardon, not when a pardon is announced and reported by the media. Even the Biden family is savvy enough to know they need pardons in reserve in case anything happens to the ancient and deteriorating Joe Biden. There are likely a number of pardons for any number of Bidens who have received wire transfers etc. sitting in Joe Bidens oval office desk drawer with a corresponding copy or maybe even a second original sitting in safe deposit boxes or more likely secured by family attorneys. Putting the pardons in the hands of your attorneys helps legitimize the pardons by establishing a better chain of custody. This way no one can argue that these pardons were done after Biden was president or after he was no longer competent. The rest of the Biden family, including Jill Biden, likely have pardons stashed away not just because of their behaviors, but because of the behavior of the Biden administration and the behavior of the so-called Department of Justice. Once the Democrats went down the road of criminalizing political difference with President Trump, it was a sure thing that every president for a generation or two will pardon themselves, their family and at least some key advisors as they leave office. The Biden family needs copies so there is no chance of some angry White House operative destroying the pardons. Some Democrats might privately be angry at the Biden family members for the bad press they caused the party or worry that the pardons becoming public would harm their electoral prospects. Some think the Nixon pardon hurt Fords chances in the 1976 election. Thus, again the Biden family members likely have copies or second originals of their pardons. So, Joe Biden is not worried something will happen to him before his familys legal problems are resolved. Hunter and the rest of the Biden clan have already been covered. They have been pardoned, though perhaps the Bidens are also savvy enough to up date these pardons monthly or even weekly as their behaviors continue. A more interesting question might be, has Biden pardoned the likes of Merrick Garland or Christopher Wray? James L. Swofford is a Professor of Economics in the Department of Economics, Finance and Real Estate at the University of South Alabama. Image: Louise Palanker After the movie Sound of Freedom put human trafficking in the spotlight this year, a recent case in central California shows how the Biden administrations open borders policies have made the problem worse. While serving a search warrant, Merced County Sheriffs deputies uncovered thousands of pounds of finished-product marijuana all of it illegally sourced and processed. It was one of the largest illegal marijuana processing sites theyve ever encountered. The 60 people discovered working on the product were allegedly victims of human trafficking, smuggled across the U.S.- Mexico border and forced to live in squalor while working to pay off their debt to the cartel that snuck them into the U.S. "The tragedy on this -- besides the illegal growing of it and processing -- is the fact that there are 60 people here that have been promised jobs. Brought across the border on the promise of making money each day, Sheriff Vern Warnke said of the discovery. These folks are indentured," he went on. "They owe money and yet here we are at an illegal processing center and they are scared to death." Historically, an indenture was a contract between an employer who paid an individuals passage to the colonies and an employee who agreed to work without salary to pay off the passage. Indentures were a means of obtaining cheap labor and were widely perceived as being exploitative. The 13th Amendment outlawed indentured servitude in the United States. One of the human trafficking victims included a juvenile who was reportedly released back to his or her parents after Child Protective Services was contacted. The real tragedy of this story is that its just the latest incident of human trafficking taking place within the U.S. a sordid exploitation of people that is dramatically facilitated by the Biden administrations loose border policies. Team Bidens lawless approach to immigration enforcement merely enables and emboldens the cartels and other criminal groups involved in alien smuggling and trafficking. In fact, the U.S. is ranked as one of the worst countries in the world for human trafficking. According to the DeliverFund, a nonprofit that uses intelligence technology to assist law enforcement, approximately 199,000 incidents of human trafficking occur annually, and statistics indicate that the problem is only getting worse. Nearly 2,200 people were referred to U.S. attorneys for human trafficking offenses in FY2020, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics. This marked a 62 percent increase from the statistics released in 2011. The number of people prosecuted for human trafficking increased a whopping 84 percent during this same time span, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics. The number of people convicted also increased. As the New York Times described it, migrant smuggling along the U.S.-Mexico border in the past decade began as a scattered network of freelance coyotes and has since transformed into a multi-billion-dollar international business that is run in large part by some of Mexicos most dangerous drug cartels. This description makes sense, given illegal immigration exploded under the Obama administration and has morphed into a full-blown crisis since Joe Biden took office. In FY2021, Biden earned the distinction of presiding over the largest number of illegal border crossings in the nations history at roughly 1.7 million encounters (not even counting the 389,000 gotaways, that is, those who were detected but not apprehend). Not to be outdone so early in his first term, his administration smashed this record yet again in FY2022 by more than one million with roughly 2.76 million illegal border encounters and more than 600,000 gotaways. While there is a slate of theories as to why so many foreign nationals are choosing to illegally cross the U.S.-Mexico border at this time, one primary cause remains irrefutable many foreigners believe that our southern border is open. When questioned by reporters on the ground, many of these illegal aliens have said just as much. Its open, not closed, a recently arrived illegal migrant from Venezuela told Fox News in 2022. The border is open. He continued: We come in, free, no problem. The Biden administration has attempted to quash this narrative by stating publicly that the border is closed. However, the message sent by Bidens Department of Homeland Security has been something other than the border is closed. It immediately ended President Donald Trumps border wall project and attempted a 100-day moratorium on deportations, before a federal appeals court shut that plan down. And it has enacted an array of other anti-enforcement policies from re-implementing catch-and-release to rolling out an app that allows illegal aliens to schedule their entry into the United States. But having a secure border does more than prevent illegal immigration. It prevents the gruesome and illegal working conditions just witnessed in Merced County, and the tragedy in San Antonio, Texas, where 53 trafficking victims were abandoned by their coyote to bake to death inside a sweltering tractor trailer. A secure border protects the most vulnerable of immigrants trafficking victims, particularly the women and children who are deliberately targeted by sex traffickers and criminal cartels seeking the modern equivalent of indentured servants. Jason Hopkins serves as Investigations Manager at the Immigration Reform Law Institute, a public interest law firm working to defend the rights and interests of the American people from the negative effects of mass migration. Image: Pixabay / Pixabay License Last night the State Treasurer of Arizona, Republican Kimberly Yee, posted this press release to her X account: I have been notified that I will be serving as Acting Governor beginning later this evening until mid-morning tomorrow. Read my full statement below. pic.twitter.com/sSuiSCebk4 Arizona Treasurer Kimberly Yee (@AZTreasurerYee) September 27, 2023 The full statement from Yee reads: I have been notified that I will be serving as Acting Governor beginning later this evening [Sep. 27] until mid-morning tomorrow [Sep. 28]. While I am pleased to step into this role, I will refrain from naming directors to the 13 agencies that currently have vacancies and will not call the Arizona Legislature into session to confirm them. That being said, I do hope when the Governor returns to Arizona, she will promptly name qualified directors to these important state agencies and remove the legal uncertainty that exists for all of the regulatory actions taken by the agencies. I expect to see a swift resolution to this matter, so we can get back to getting the work done for Arizona taxpayers. The people of Arizona deserve leaders who follow the rule of law. You might recall, Arizonas governor is Katie Hobbs, the selected nominee that somehow cruised to victory over the wildly popular Kari Lake, under very suspicious circumstances during last years elections, and shes currently embroiled in yet another scandal that saw her seemingly skirt the law and precedent to install state agency directors as executive deputy directors instead of the traditional process of State Senate confirmation. My first question is, why did the line of succession skip over the first two lawful successors? Arizona is a weird state, and for reasons I dont know, the state has never had a lieutenant governor, despite Article V Section 6 of the state constitution providing for such a post; so, the current line of succession goes from governor, to secretary of state, to attorney general, to state treasurer, to superintendent of public instruction. Yee, as the treasurer, means that not only was Hobbs unable to serve but Adrian Fontes and Kris Mayes too; Fontes and Mayes are the two Democrats sitting in the positions of Secretary of State and Arizona Attorney General, respectively. My second question is, why are we hearing about this from Yee? I checked the latest press releases from Hobbss office, and there is no mention about why she suddenly stepped down from the office of the governor. That would be as if one day we woke up, and suddenly Senator Patty Murray from Washington was Acting President, with no mention from Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, or Kevin McCarthy as to what was going on. At the time Im writing this, there are no updates from Fontess office, Mayess office, or Chad Campbell, who is Hobbs Chief of Stafftheres also nothing across any of their X feeds either. Someone on X suggested that the three Democrats were temporarily unable to act as Arizona governor because they were using loopholes to exploit their offices; see below: @katiehobbs @AZSecretary and @AZAGMayes are currently using the transfer of power to break the law. This is why @AZTreasurerYee Is in power. They are all currently at an event for @norscodems and the only reason to relinquish power at a political event is to do one of the pic.twitter.com/tLghZUbmbE Elephant Civics (@ElephantCivics) September 28, 2023 Of course, this isnt a wild assumption, given who these characters are, but the logic doesnt quite add up to me. To start, Hobbs, Fontes, and Mayes have absolutely no qualms about evidently breaking the law and rubbing it in our faces, so why in the world would they care about optics or posteritys sake now, in such a dramatic and unprecedented move? Furthermore, politicians speaking before crowds of supporters and taking donations? This is neither illegal, nor frowned upon. This North Scottsdale Democrats meeting looks like any run-of-the-mill political social club, and attendance as an elected official certainly wouldnt require the drastic move of stepping down from office. And, I guarantee this audience is full of people who have donated to the campaigns of Hobbs, Fontes, and Mayes already. Next, I only see Fontes, not Hobbs or Mayes. I mean, they could have been there, but using a picture theyre not in, to prove they were at an event doesnt cut it. Also, the account from which that original image was shared is Steven Slugocki, a senior adviser to Fontes. From Slugockis account, it looks like Fontes hit a couple of different functions yesterday, seemingly alone. Lastly, Yees statement says when the Governor returns to Arizona which naturally implies that Hobbs is not in the stateit could be a typo, or accidental bad information, but nonetheless, if true, it refutes the idea that Hobbs was stepping down to speak to a handful of elderly Democrats in Scottsdale. Where is Katie Hobbs? Where is Kris Mayes? Where is Adrian Fontes? I have no idea what is going on, but its all very strange. Image: Gage Skidmore from Surprise, AZ, United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons, unaltered. The year 1977 was an important year in the history of home computing. That year, the worlds first microprocessor-driven personal computer was releasednot one, not two, but three different models by three different manufacturers: the highly successful Apple II, the Commodore PET and the TRS-80, which actually outsold the Apple II by a factor of five until the early 1980s. All these machines and the ones that came after had cassette tapes for mass storage, because hard disk drives were still very expensive. It was only during the 1980s that personal computers started offering hard drive storages, first as peripherals and later as internal drives. The cassettes tapes that these early computers used to store programs and data were the same audio cassettes we used to listen to music before digital music players such as iPods and smartphones became popular. The use of audio cassettes as storage was one of the factors that helped the initial adoption and growth of personal computers because it brought down the total cost of owing one. Before long, kids were swapping programs and games on audio cassettes the same way they swapped music. In the early 1980s, engineers over at the Dutch broadcasting organization Nederlandse Omroep Stichting (NOS) had this fantastic idea of distributing computer programs over the radio. Because programs and data were stored on audio cassettes, it was possible for these data cassettes to be played back on a cassette player, and the resulting audiowhich sounds very much like a dial-up modemwas broadcasted over the radio waves. Listeners recorded the audio onto cassettes and loaded the programs into their computers. The radio program named Hobbyscoop became wildly popular. They even developed a new format called BASICODE to ensure maximum compatibility between different personal computers that were available at the time. Original software that came with the Apple II Computer on two cassette tapes. Photo credit: Jim Abeles/Flickr A selection of Commodore VIC-20 games on cassette. Photo credit: Grant Hutchinson/Flickr Broadcasting computer programs over radio turned into a craze and several radio stations in different European countries started doing it. In Finland, a similar show went on air on the YLE public radio station. In 1985, a pilot program was broadcasted and successfully downloaded 600 km away from the station. In Yugoslavia, a show called Ventilator 202 on Radio Belgrade became very popular among computer geeks, broadcasting about 150 computer programs between 1983 and 1986. These included programs for mathematical calculations, short educational programs, mini-encyclopaedias, simple games and even a flight simulator. The first time a program was sent, the radio host Zoran Modli had to inform the Radio Belgrade technicians on duty that for the next few minutes only hissing and growling would be heard. Lay people were confused and wondered, What is this lunatic doing? But those who listened and understood excitedly contacted us by telephone to say they had successfully loaded the program onto their computers! recalls Zoran Modli. http://archive.kchungradio.org/2019-03-26/special_collections-03.26.2019.mp3 Listen to the sounds that was transmitted over the radio. Sound Courtesy KChung Radio. In the UK, Joe Tozer of Radio West came up with the idea independently almost at the same time. The first program they broadcasted was a 40 pixel by 80 pixel Teletext-style black and white image of Charlies Angels star Cheryl Ladd. Later, the show called Datarama began transmitting all kinds of programs written specifically for the show including minigames and an application that translated keyboard inputs into Morse code. Distributing programs via the radio came to an end in the mid- to late- 1980s when 8-bit computing gave way to 16-bit computing. The new processors were faster but they were also data hungry, consuming more than two hundred and fifty times the data as an 8-bit computer. A cassette simply could not hold that much data. Consequently, cassette storage became a thing of the past, and floppy disk and hard disk drives became the preferred mass storage devices. It wasnt until the turn of the 21st century, that wireless downloading of programs became possible again, via Wi-Fi. Part 1: Leading Samsung has a feature that renders accessing the mobile quite challenging without a synced Google account. Yeah, you guessed it right its the FRP lock, and bypassing it is a helluva trick. It triggers when you try to reset your Samsung phone. But what if youve bought a used Samsung phone and dont know the Google account credentials of the previous owner? Or you may have reset your mobile only to learn that you dont remember its synced Google ID and password. So, whatll you do to FRP bypass Samsung lock? Advertisement Advertisement Whatever the case is, this article will help you learn how the Samsung FRP lock works and whether its possible to bypass Samsung FRP. Plus, well teach you 3 functional ways to remove the FRP lock on Samsung. So, lets get on with it! Part 1: How Does Samsung FRP Lock Work? A Samsung FRP (Factory Reset Protection) lock is a security feature in Samsung devices to prevent unauthorized access if a device is lost or stolen. If a phone has this security feature enabled, youll have to provide the details of its synced Google account at factory reset time. Otherwise, you wont be able to bypass its Google verification screen. Part 2: Can We Bypass FRP Lock on Samsung Easily? Yes, you can perform Samsung FRP bypass with the help of Samsung FRP Lock Removal-4uKey for Android. It provides a convenient way to help regain access to your Samsung phone without needing a Google account. Heres what this tool offers: Quickly get past Samsung FRP lock In mere minutes, you can effectively bypass the FRP lock on your Samsung phone without a Google account and regain access to it. User-friendly No learning curve required. It enables a simple FRP bypass from the comfort of your home. Great compatibility and success Works with Android 6 and newer versions, offering tailored solutions for various systems, ensuring successful Google account bypass. 100% secure and trustworthy It incorporates advanced encryption and provides a malware-free solution. Moreover, it assures your privacy and device security. Advertisement Watch this video to learn how to bypass Google account on Samsung with 4uKey for Android: There are two more ways to bypass FRP Samsung one with a SIM PIN code and the other with APK without PC. Part 3: How to Bypass FRP Samsung? Well come towards the other two methods to bypass Google account. But first, well discuss the tested way to bypass FRP lock Samsung via Tenorshare 4uKey for Android. Way 1: Bypass Frp Samsung With FRP Unlocker in Clicks!-4uKey for Android (Tested Way) Simply download 4uKey for Android on your PC, and follow the steps below to FRP unlock Samsung: 1. Open 4uKey for Android on your computer and choose Remove Google Lock (FRP). Connect your Samsung phone to the computer. Pick your Samsung devices OS version. Click Start. 2. Confirm your devices OS version, then click Start again. Follow the step-by-step guidance provided to initiate FRP removal. 3. When a message pops up on your Samsung phone, select Always allow from this computer and tap OK to enable USB debugging. Click OK on your computer screen. 4. Wait for 4uKey for Android to finish removing the Google account. Your Samsung device will reboot automatically. Follow onscreen instructions to set up your phone. Way 2: How to Bypass FRP Samsung Without a PC If you dont have a PC and want to bypass the FRP lock on your Samsung phone, an FRP Bypass APK provides a convenient way. Heres how you can perform Samsung FRP bypass Android 11 the easy way with APK: Advertisement 1. Connect your Samsung device to a Wi-Fi network. Tap the Wi-Fi network arrow, then select Manage Network Settings. Navigate to Static IP and choose IP Address. 2. Enter anything in the IP address field and long-press it to reveal the Web Search option. Look for FRP Bypass APK in the search. Download and install it. 3. Launch FRP Bypass APK, go to Settings, then select Try. Head to Fingerprints, Face, and Password, choose Screen Lock then Pattern to set a new pattern. 4. Return to the main page and input your new pattern. Tap Skip to remove the FRP lock. Way 3: How to Bypass FRP Samsung With SIM Pin Code If you want the manual way to FRP bypass Samsung, the SIM PIN method is the way to go. It involves using your SIM card to receive a link or code from Google to reset your password. Youll need to insert your SIM card into another device to receive the Google text. Heres how to bypass FRP lock on Samsung with a SIM PIN code: 1. After resetting your Samsung phone, the FRP lock will prompt you to enter your Google credentials. Select Forgot Password. 2. Remove the SIM card from your locked Samsung device and place it in another phone. 3. Opt for a password reset using your phone number. Youll get a text with the reset link. Once you create a new password, use it to unlock your Samsung phone. Part 4:The Bottom Line The issue of FRP lock on Samsung devices can be a real headache if youve bought a used phone or forgotten your synced Google account credentials. However, many solutions have emerged to FRP bypass Samsung lock. Advertisement Among these, Tenorshare 4uKey for Android is the most effective solution to remove FRP lock without needing a Google account at a high success rate. It can also remove Face IDs, fingerprints, password, PIN, and pattern lock in one click. Tips to Bypass FRP Lock on Samsung? 1. How to disable FRP on Android? Head over to the Settings menu. Choose Accounts then your Google account name. Up at the top-right, choose the More option. Pick Remove Account. 2. Is it possible to use Find My Mobile to unlock Samsung FRP lock? No, you cant use Find My Mobile to help unlock the Samsung FRP lock. However, if you find yourself locked out of your Samsung phones screen, you can use Find My Mobile to unlock it. We recently got confirmation that Samsung will unveil the Galaxy Tab A9 series on October 5. The base model showed up on the Google Play Console last week to reveal some of its key specs. The Plus model has now surfaced on the same website, giving us an idea of what to expect from it. Google Play Console reveals key specs of the Galaxy Tab A9+ Spotted by MyFixGuide, Google has listed the 5G version of the unannounced Samsung tablet. We can see that the device has a Qualcomm processor with the model number SM6375. Its none other than the Snapdragon 695, a 6nm mid-range chipset featuring two ARM Cortex-A78 CPU cores clocked at 2.2GHz and four Cortex-A55 cores at 1.8GHz. Qualcomm has paired the CPU with the Adreno 619 GPU. The SoC supports both sub-6 and mmWave 5G networks. Advertisement Advertisement Samsung will offer at least 4GB of RAM with the Galaxy Tab A9+. The tablet may also be available in a 6GB RAM variant. Storage configurations are not known but we should get 128GB of internal storage space if not more. The device will support microSD cards for expandable storage. The Korean firm may let you add up to 1TB of additional storage space externally. This tablet features a Full HD+ (12001920 pixels resolution) display. It is presumably an LCD panel measuring between 11 and 12 inches diagonally. The Google Play Console listing also confirms that the Galaxy Tab A9+ will run Android 13 out of the box. Samsung will likely ship it with its One UI 5.1.1 custom software. The device has one camera each on the front and back. Earlier rumors have revealed a 7,040mAh battery with 15W fast charging. The rest of the specs of this tablet are still under the wraps. However, as said earlier, Samsung plans to launch the Galaxy Tab A9 series next week, so it wont be long before we get to know everything about the duo, including the pricing structure. We might even come across more detailed leaks ahead of the official unveiling. Stick around and we will keep you posted with all the latest information. Samsung has more devices lined up for launch in early October The two new A-series tablets could be accompanied by a bunch of other Galaxy devices out of Samsungs doors next week. The Korean firm also has the Galaxy S23 FE, Galaxy Buds FE, Galaxy Tab S9 FE, Galaxy Tab S9 FE+, and Galaxy SmartTag 2 in the pipeline. All of these devices are scheduled for an early October release. It remains to be seen if they break cover on the same day. Motorola is dealing with an unusual problem in Mexico. Unauthorized sales of its phones in the country have grown fivefold over the past three years. Despite repeated warnings, this practice hasnt stopped. It has now decided to take strict action and disable those phones entirely, limiting their usage to making emergency calls only. Motorola disables phones purchased through unauthorized channels in Mexico The devices in question are illegally imported to Mexico from foreign territories. They dont have regulatory approval for sale and use in the country. Motorola says this poses a security risk to the user of such phones as they dont comply with all domestic standards and lack warranty policies. These phones may also fail to work properly on Mexican wireless networks due to the lack of official support. Advertisement Advertisement As reported by Xataka, Motorola has been warning Mexicans against buying or using these irregular phones since at least May this year. It started sending a push notification saying Your device is irregular because it does not comply with the regulations in Mexico. However, unauthorized sales of Motorola phones continued in the country. Consumers seemingly ignored the companys warning. The Lenovo-owned firm has now had enough. It is disabling the devices purchased through those channels. Unauthorized Motorola phones activated on or after July 27, 2023, in Mexico will stop working a few days later. The company will show two warnings to users during this period. Your device will be disabled in 10 days for not complying with regulations in Mexico, the first warning notification reads. This warning message shows up immediately after the setup process and comes with a huge banner that will certainly draw your attention. Users can tap on it to learn more about the matter. Motorola will follow up with the same warning ten days later, with it noting that theres only one more day left before the phone is disabled. The device will no longer be operable from the next day. The user will not be able to use the device, consequently, they will not have access to its files, functions or applications, since there will be a disabling screen and they will only be able to access Emergency Calls, Motorola explains in a support page. The page also provides more information on the risks of using such phones and the benefits of buying approved devices from authorized channels. Advertisement Affected users will get a 30 percent discount on approved Motorola phones Its worth noting that Motorola wont disable phones purchased through authorized channels on foreign land but used in Mexico. Irregular phones purchased within the country and activated before July 27, 2023, will also continue to work as before. This is despite those devices lacking regulatory approval. The company will show a usage warning but wont block access to the device. Unsurprisingly, Mexicans arent happy about Motorola disabling phones with similar limitations but purchased within the country. They dont have any choice, though. If they want to buy an approved Motorola phone, the company is giving them a 30 percent discount. Users will need to validate the IMEI of the irregular device to receive the discount coupon that will be valid for 30 days. The company wont take the disabled phone. You can find more information about the process of obtaining the discount coupon on this support page. Devices approved for sale and use in Mexico will feature a NOM (Norma Oficial Mexicana) certification label on the retail box. To much backlash, Twitter introduced a paid verification system. For a monthly fee, users could gain access to additional features and perks along with the much-coveted verification checkmark. While this made Twitter the laughingstock of the social media world, it seems that Meta also came out with its own paid verification program. So, what is this program all about? Why should you get it? More importantly, is it worth your money? Heres everything you need to know about this program. Advertisement Advertisement What is Meta Verified? Meta Verified is a subscription service that will grant users on Facebook and Instagram exclusive perks and features. As time goes on, we wont be surprised to see the list of perks increase. For now, there is a handful of goodies that the program will offer. The perks For starters, theres the coveted verification badge. Youll have a unified verification badge that youll see on both your Facebook and Instagram profiles. With Meta Verified, youll have proactive account monitoring. This means that the company will keep an eye on your account to ensure that there arent any impersonators out there trying to emulate your account. As accounts gain notoriety, they see an increase in other accounts trying to impersonate them to scam unsuspecting individuals. If youre Meta Verified, youll have exclusive access to a human assistant who will assist you with common issues. This means that you wont need to navigate help forums and automated phone services to get assistance for most issues. Next, with the subscription, your posts will have a wider reach compared to free users. This means that youll have a boost in the algorithm making it easier for people to discover your posts. [UPDATE: The wider reach is only available for users in Australia and New Zealand. Its not available for users in the US] Meta notes that the effect on your account will vary depending on your audience size. If you have a smaller following, then youre likely to see a more substantial difference than if you have a larger following. Advertisement Verified members will have exclusive stickers on their accounts. Theyll show up on Reels and Stories to show people that theyre verified. Each verified member will get 100 stars every month on Facebook. Stars are a proprietary Facebook currency that you can give to creators. Theyre like Bits for Twitch. How much does Meta Verified cost? At the time of writing this post, its currently being tested in Australia and New Zealand. While thats true, the prices are presented in USD, so we dont expect it to be different when it eventually hits the states. If you sign up through the apps on Android or iOS, it costs $14.99/month (AUD 19.99). However, if you sign up for it through the web, then the price drops 20% to $11.99/month (AUD 24.99). The reason for this is that Meta needs to pay 30% of its earnings to Apple and Google whenever someone signs up on their app store. So, Meta is charging more for people who sign up that way to offset this fee. At this time, there is no yearly subscription plan. Who can sign up? Currently, only personal accounts are eligible for verification. This means that you cant verify your business or organization just yet. However, that functionality will come down the pipeline. Im already verified. Will my account be affected? Theres already a verification program present on Facebook and Instagram. Meta stated that with Meta Verified, accounts that have previously been verified, will not be affected. However, that doesnt mean that there wont be changes in the long term. Advertisement According to the companys blog post, previously verified accounts wont be affected in the short term, but it will eventually be evolving the meaning of verified accounts on [its] apps. This means that sometime down the road, Meta could bring a major change to accounts that are already verified. At the moment, we dont know what the company plans on doing to previously-verified accounts. How do I get Meta Verified? At the time of this writing, the program is only available to users in Australia and New Zealand [UPDATE: Now available in the US]. When it does make it to more markets, it will be a relatively involved process. This is because youll need to verify your identity before you can verify your account. Youll need to submit a picture of your government-issued ID in order to sign up to be verified. You must also be at least 18 years old and enable two-factor authentication. If youre signing up for Meta Verified, youll need to use an account that has a minimum posting history. This is to help ensure that only true users of the platform are applying to be verified. It will help minimize bots and trolls gaining verification Lastly, youll need to be at least 18 years old. Theres no way of getting past that, as youll need to present your ID when signing up. One thing to know is that when you sign up, the name on the account must match the name on your ID. This means that your account can only have your real name. After your account is verified, you can not change your name, photo, or account information without going through the verification process again. Advertisement Can I be verified if I have strikes on my accounts? Meta didnt mention whether ToS strikes have any weight on your application process. Just know that, if youve wracked up any serious strikes on your account, then you run the risk of having your verification application rejected. Make sure that you read through the terms of service if you have any questions. After you are verified, Meta didnt state whether ToS strikes will have your account unverified or simply banned. [Update] Can I verify my business account? Yes. Mark Zuckerberg announced that business accounts can now purchase a verification mark on either Facebook or Instagram. This will give businesses accounts access to exclusive features just like with main accounts. The pricing is a bit different from regular account verification. Verifying your Facebook business account or Instagram account will cost you $22/month. If you want to verify both of your accounts, it will cost you $35/month. When will it come to other markets? Meta has been testing this program out in Australia and New Zealand. The company eventually brought it to the US market. Its currently still in testing, so it will expand to other markets as time goes on. (see related) (ANSA) - ROME, SEP 28 - German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said Thursday that Berlin accepts the compromise on the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum proposed by the Spanish presidency of the EU. "We have to reach an agreement," Faeser told a public session of the Home Affairs Council on migration. "A qualified majority exists. We have to verify that the countries apply the Pact. "It's important that asylum seekers' rights are respected. "We are in favour of an extension of the exceptions in favour of families and minors. "As we await the (results of the) negotiation, we accept the compromise the Spanish presidency". (ANSA). (see related) (ANSA) - ROME, SEP 28 - Hungarian Deputy Interior Minister Bence Retvari reiterated Budapest's opposition to the proposed new EU Pact on Migration and Asylum during a public session of the EU Home Affairs Council on Thursday. Retvari said the Pact's crisis-management regulation would "open more doors and allow more irregular migrants to enter the EU. "It would work like a magnet," she continued. "We cannot accept this, because it means that the decisions will be in the hands of the traffickers". (ANSA). (ANSA) - ROME, SEP 28 - Rome has asked for time to consider the compromise on the new Pact on Migration and Asylum proposed by the Spanish presidency of the EU, several European sources said on Thursday. As a result, the approval the Pact, which has been expected on Thursday, risks being delayed. The compromise on the Pact's crisis regulation was an attempt to meet Germany's requests regarding the protection for migrants and on NGO rescues at sea. Earlier on Thursday European Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson had expressed optimism that EU member States would reach a final agreement on new rules in Brussels. "Progress has been made and I am optimistic that an agreement can be found today on the last tranche of the Migration Pact," Johansson told reporters before the start. "Afterwards we can begin the trialogues," she added, referring to the inter-institutional negotiations between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission for the adoption of EU legislation. "As with other chapters of the Pact there was tension at the beginning, but in the end we succeeded in managing" an agreement, said Johansson. Proposed by the European Commission in 2020, the New Pact on Migration and Asylum aims to create a fairer, more efficient and more sustainable migration and asylum process for the European Union, with an emphasis on solidarity and responsibility sharing among member states. However, negotiations have been slow amid deep divisions within the bloc about how to proceed, with strong opposition especially from Hungary and Poland. Italy is struggling to manage an almost 100% increase in the number of migrants and refugees arriving on its southern shores so far this year compared to the same period in 2022. (ANSA). (see related stories on migration pact) (ANSA) - ROME, SEP 28 - Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani had talks with his German counterpart Annalena Baerbock on Thursday amid a spat over Berlin's decision to fund NGOs working with migrants in Italy, including a German one conducting rescues at sea. Premier Giorgia Meloni wrote to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz Monday saying that she was "amazed" that Berlin had made the decision without liaising with the Italian government. "Individual states' financing should focus on structural solutions to the migration issue," Tajani said at a press conference in Berlin. "No one is waging war on the NGOs," added the minister, who is part of a government that has passed regulations imposing a series of restrictions on NGO-run migrant-rescue ships. "But they cannot be magnet to irregular migrants who, as chance would have it, are always taken to Italy, and nowhere else, because it is nearest. "NGO ships can rescue at sea, but Italy cannot be turned into the place where all NGOs bring migrants, in part because they do not want to come to Italy, they want to reach other European countries. "For this reason a European solution is needed". Referring to the two countries' "'different opinions" on the funding of NGOs dealing with migrants in Italy, Baerbock said that "we talked about it today and we have done so before". She added that, despite these differences, "in three cases the disbursement of funds is imminent". Baerbock stressed that almost 95% of the migrants saved while trying to cross the Mediterranean are rescued by the Italian authorities (ANSA). (ANSA) - ROME, SEP 28 - European Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson has expressed optimism that EU interior ministers will reach a final agreement on new rules for migration management within the bloc at a home affairs council meeting in Brussels on Thursday. "Progress has been made and I am optimistic that an agreement can be found today on the last tranche of the Migration Pact," Johansson told reporters before the start. "Afterwards we can begin the trialogues," she added, referring to the interinstitutional negotiations between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission for the adoption of EU legislation. "As with other chapters of the Pact there was tension at the beginning, but in the end we succeeded in managing" an agreement, said Johansson. Proposed by the European Commission in 2020, the New Pact on Migration and Asylum aims to create a fairer, more efficient and more sustainable migration and asylum process for the European Union, with an emphasis on solidarity and responsibility sharing among member states. However, negotiations have been slow amid deep divisions within the bloc about how to proceed, with strong opposition especially from Hungary and Poland. On Wednesday European Parliament President Roberta Metsola expressed optimism that a breakthrough to end the deadlock could come this week or next. However, in a tweet on Wednesday Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban reiterated his opposition to the Pact. "Brussels wants to make us swallow the failed migrant pact before the next European elections," Orban wrote on X. "While illegal migrants attack our policemen, Brussels wants to force us to let them in. Another crazy idea from the Brussels bubble. We will not allow it!" he added. (ANSA). (ANSA) - ROME, SEP 28 - European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen on Thursday exhorted EU interior ministers meeting in Brussels to reach an agreement on the new set of rules governing migration and asylum within the bloc. "In adopting proposals that are central to the Pact on Migration and Asylum, I now strongly urge member states to reach an agreement on the regulation of the crisis at today's meeting of interior ministers," she said. "We must now finish the job. We must ensure the proper implementation of the Pact," she added. Proposed by the European Commission in 2020, the New Pact on Migration and Asylum aims to create a fairer, more efficient and more sustainable migration and asylum process for the European Union, with an emphasis on solidarity and responsibility sharing among member states. However, negotiations have been slow amid deep divisions within the bloc about how to proceed, with strong opposition especially from Hungary and Poland. EU interior ministers are meeting on Wednesday to discuss migration at the Home Affairs Council in Brussels. (ANSA). Family of teenage girl killed on way to school visits scene as vigil is held The family of a 15-year-old girl stabbed on her way to school has visited the scene where she died as crowds joined a vigil nearby. Elianne Andam was wounded in the neck in Croydon, south London, at about 8.30am on Wednesday, with members of the public rushing to try to save her. Her family visited the scene on Thursday evening as crowds gathered outside the police cordon and prayers were said. A large group of relatives could be seen next to a bus stop, inside the cordon, where Elianne died. Some put their arms around each other as flowers were put on the ground. A statement was read out by a church leader on behalf of the family at the edge of the crime scene. The statement, which was read out while family members cried and consoled each other, said: We as a family are struggling to comprehend this painful tragedy that has happened to our beautiful daughter and beloved sister Elianne. Our hearts are broken. And we are overwhelmed by sorrow and grief. Our faith in the Lord is strengthening us. We would like to express our gratitude to those who have taken the time to send us thoughtful and compassionate messages and prayers. We kindly ask for your consideration to also respect our need for privacy as we attempt to come to grips with our deeply devastating loss. Elianne was a beautiful person inside and out who loved Jesus. She was intelligent, thoughtful, kind and had a bright future ahead. It is our request that you keep our cherished daughter Elianne and our family, in your thoughts and prayers. Eliannes laughter is said to have lit up a room (Metropolitan Police/PA) Meanwhile, Eliannes friends were sobbing and so emotional at her school on Thursday, Donna Murray-Turner, chairwoman of the local Safer Neighbourhood Board, told crowds after visiting Old Palace of John Whitgift School earlier in the day. She said she read messages in a book of condolence and they talk about her laugh. She added: Staff, teachers, talked about when she entered a room you knew she was there. And her friends, as you can imagine, were sobbing. They were so emotional. Ms Murray-Turner added that a meeting will be held at Croydon Town Hall on Monday at 6pm, where the agenda will be about violence against women and girls. Dozens of bunches of flowers have been left at the scene of the teenagers death. Police believe the attack happened near a bus stop rather than on a bus, a detective has said (James Manning/PA) Police officers who were among the first on the scene and battled to try to save Elianne appeared visibly moved as they laid flowers. A post-mortem examination was due to take place on Thursday. A 17-year-old boy, who knew the victim, was arrested just over an hour after the attack, which happened in busy Wellesley Road. He remains in police custody after officers were given more time to question him. Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Woodsford, who is leading the investigation, said: My thoughts and the thoughts of my team are with Eliannes family. Floral tributes have been left at the scene of the attack (Gwyn Wright/PA) This is a deeply upsetting time for them and we will do everything we can to support them. She said officers are making good progress in their investigation and are confident the attack happened near the bus stop rather than on a bus. Police officers were among those laying flowers (James Manning/PA) Police were seen on Thursday afternoon searching a drain in front of a bus parked within the cordon and also searching long grass earlier in the day. The Prime Minister said he is shocked and appalled at Eliannes death and said sentences for knife-related crimes should be toughened. Rishi Sunak told BBC Londons political editor Tim Donovan: Everyone will be looking at that and be shocked as I am, appalled by whats happened and, quite frankly, angry. It just illustrates the importance of clamping down on knife crime. Witnesses told the PA news agency Elianne and her alleged attacker were not in a relationship. Witnesses or anyone with information can contact police on 101, quoting reference CAD 1601/27Sep. To remain anonymous, contact the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online. One of the UKs most photographed trees has been deliberately felled in an apparent act of vandalism, authorities have said. The tree at Sycamore Gap, next to Hadrians Wall in Northumberland, was made famous when it appeared in Kevin Costners 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves. The National Trust said it was shocked and saddened to confirm that the iconic tree had been cut down overnight after pictures emerged on Thursday morning of it lying on its side by the wall, which is a Unesco World Heritage site. Northumbria Police said they had launched a full investigation and that anyone found to be responsible can expect to be dealt with swiftly and appropriately. National Trust general manager Andrew Poad, said: We are deeply shocked at what appears to be, an act of vandalism. People take an evening walk at Sycamore Gap in Northumberland (Tom White/PA) The tree has been an important and iconic feature in the landscape for nearly 200 years and means a lot to the local community and to anyone who has visited the site. Alison Hawkins, who lives in Liverpool, was one of the first people on the scene this morning, posting a picture on Facebook of the felled tree with the caption: An awful moment for all walking Hadrians wall the Sycamore Gap tree has gone! Not the storm an absolute ******* felled it!! Ms Hawkins, who was on her fourth day of walking Hadrians Wall, said she was tearful when she discovered the tree had been cut down. (PA Graphics) She told the PA news agency: At first we thought it was because of the storm but then we saw a national park ranger. He said it had been cut down and there was paint around the cut section, so it was a professional who knew where they were going to cut. It was a proper shock. Its basically the iconic picture that everyone wants to see. You can forgive nature doing it but you cant forgive that. Weve carried on the walk but news is spreading so weve passed quite a few people asking us if its true. The tree became well known after featuring in a key scene in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (Owen Humpreys/PA) The Northumberland National Park authority said: (We) can confirm that sadly, the famous tree at Sycamore Gap has come down over night. We have reason to believe it has been deliberately felled. We are working with the relevant agencies and partners with an interest in this iconic North East landmark and will issue more details once they are known. The authority is asking the public not to visit the site, near Crag Lough, whilst we work with our partners to identify what has happened and to make the site safe. A spokesperson added: Sycamore Gap was voted English Tree of the Year in 2016 in the Woodland Trusts awards and is much-loved by people from across the world. The tree stood next to the ancient Roman wall for decades (Owen Humphreys/PA) Author Amanda Marks, from Otley, Suffolk, who is staying in the area while researching for a book, told PA the act felt like murder. She said: There was a chap got there two minutes before we did from Northumberland National Park, and he was the first one to see it. And he was obviously straight on the phone saying no, this is sabotage. So somebodys come up there, with a chainsaw, at night. Then people started coming and everybodys aghast. You cant believe it. Everybody sat there open mouthed thinking why, and who would do this? The Sycamore Gap tree is probably the most photographed in the country and stands in a dramatic dip in Hadrians Wall. The Northumberland National Park Authoritys website says the Roman Milecastle 39 is just to its left. Sycamore Gap is looked after by both Northumberland National Park and the National Trust. The news was met with dismay and outrage by walkers groups on social media. One Facebook user said: I was sat crocheting at the top of the hill earlier this year while my husband and son were climbing up the rock face next to the tree. This is absolutely devastating news. Its such a magical and magnificent place and tree. I cant believe someone would deliberately chop this tree down. Another wrote on the national park authoritys Facebook page: This is terrible news. I visit the tree regularly with my son. I wonder if a tree sculptor could turn the felled tree into something to remember it in its place. Sycamore Gap was voted as English Tree of the Year in 2016 (Owen Humphreys/PA) A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: We can confirm an investigation has been launched following damage to the Sycamore Gap Tree in Northumberland. Inquiries are ongoing to establish whether any criminal offences have been committed. Tim Wickens, trustee of the Northumberland and Newcastle Society, said: Im truly tearful having just seen the images and reporting on the world famous tree at Sycamore gap on Hadrians wall apparently being deliberately felled last night. If it transpires this was a deliberate, it really is an outrageous and despicable act of vandalism that will shock people everywhere. It is beyond belief that anyone would consciously seek to destroy such a timeless symbol of the North Easts natural beauty and an icon of the Hadrians Wall World Heritage Site. I would urge anyone with useful information to contact the police immediately to help them find those responsible for this awful crime. Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness, said she was incandescent at the news and that officers will do their utmost to catch whoever is behind this. Landscape and nature author Robert Macfarlane said: I just feel sick. I feel desperately sad about what it says about our wider relationship with trees and with nature in this country. And I feel very angry. He told BBC Radio 5 Live the tree was probably about 300 years old. He said: Just so many memories were stored in that tree and to see that white wood that a chain saw ripped through at some point last night. I just despair really about the state of nature in this country. Jack Taylor, from Woodland Trust, told the programme: If its been deliberately felled, as reports suggest, its totally unforgiveable. And, Im really struggling to think of a reason why anybody would do that. Honestly, it would have to be a disturbed individual to do something that sort-of deliberate and heinous. Mr Taylor said: Were completely devastated that this has happened. The Government is working intensely behind the scenes to get the Stormont Assembly up and running, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said. Mr Sunak said he had removed the biggest stumbling block to the return of the devolved institutions in Northern Ireland when he agreed the Windsor Framework with the EU. However, Sinn Fein vice president Michelle ONeill said patience has run out with the DUPs blockade of the assembly and called on the UK and Irish governments to work together to see it restored. The DUP has been blocking powersharing for more than a year in protest at the internal UK trade barriers created by Brexits Northern Ireland Protocol. The party says the deal struck by the EU and UK to reform the protocol the Windsor Framework does not sufficiently address its concerns and has made clear it will not countenance a return to devolution until the Government provides further assurances, by way of legislation, over Northern Irelands place within the UK internal market. Talks between the DUP and Government have been ongoing over the summer. In an interview with UTV, Mr Sunak said that the protocol was the biggest stumbling block to having a functioning executive at Stormont. He said: So I set out to try to resolve those issues. Thats what the Windsor Framework was about. Im pleased we could do that. And now we want to keep working with stakeholders to see where we can continue to make improvements to make sure its implemented. He added: With regard to getting Stormont up and running, we are intensely working behind the scenes, as you would expect. Behind the scenes were having intensive dialogue with all the parties because I want to see that government up and running because thats what people of Northern Ireland need and deserve. Asked if he would consider changes to the framework to bring the DUP back into government, Mr Sunak said the agreement could be implemented in a flexible way. He said: So the Windsor Framework is the Windsor Framework, but where we can work with stakeholders in its implementation to do it in a way that is better or more flexible, of course well be open to doing that, and that is happening. But the fundamentals of it are what they are, and they resolve the practical issues that were raised with me on things like on parcels, on medicines, about tax policy, on key things applying in Northern Ireland. The overall framework that weve negotiated with the EU is set and as I said, its a huge improvement on the protocol and that practically resolves issues like parcels, like medicines and making sure that tax policy applies equally. Again, we having a good dialogue across parties to make sure that we can work with them. I want to support that process and I want to support them finding a way to get government up and running. And thats what the people of Northern Ireland need and deserve. I think public services need that attention. Theyre only going to get it if the Stormont executive is up and running. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said intensive work is continuing to restore Stormont (Hollie Adams/PA) However, Ms ONeill told the media in Belfast that the two governments needed to be more active in finding a solution to the powersharing logjam. She said: What we need to see, and what we should have heard from the Prime Minister today, is the action, the plan that he has to work with the Irish Government to end the DUPs blockage of the assembly. That is where the public want us to be, working together and having their back through the cost-of-living crisis. Everyone has been more than reasonable giving time and space to the DUP, but that patience has run out. We are at the end of that road and what we need to see is the action plan to get us back into the executive. The real question now for the DUP is are they prepared to accept the outcome of last Mays assembly election? Are they prepared to accept shared power on an equal basis with ourselves and with the other parties? Some elements of the Windsor Framework will come into effect from this weekend. Sinn Fein vice president Michelle ONeill said the UK and Irish governments need to work together to restore Stormont (Liam McBurney/PA) Ms ONeill said this meant there was no reason for the DUP boycott of Stormont to continue. She said: The Windsor Framework is now done, that deal has closed, that is not up for renegotiation. We have the Windsor Framework now coming into effect, the red lanes and green lanes now coming into effect over the next number of days, so there is no reason for the DUP to boycott the executive. She added: Our priority should always be plan A which is to get the Executive up and running, but if that is not the case of course it is prudent for the two governments to work together and actually find a way. But, what does that look like? What does that joint stewardship look like? They need to be having those conversations. I do think the two governments need to bring forward a plan in the first instance to have a restored executive and how they are going to stop the DUP preventing the formation of an executive. Grant Shapps has visited Kyiv and met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The Defence Secretary used the visit to reaffirm the UKs commitment to support Ukraine as it defends itself against the Russian invasion of its territory. In his second visit to Kyiv in two months, Mr Shapps held meetings with his Ukrainian counterpart Rustem Umerov, alongside the UKs chief of defence staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin. In a video shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, Mr Shapps can be seen meeting the Ukrainian president alongside defence officials. Mr Shapps said: It was an honour to meet President Zelensky in Kyiv to assure him that the UK will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine, as we have since Putin illegally invaded Crimea nearly 10 years ago. We have trained tens of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers, delivered hundreds of thousands of rounds of ammunition, and provided millions of pounds of economic and humanitarian aid to help Ukraines citizens reclaim and rebuild what has been taken from them by Putins barbaric invasion. Having heard the experiences of so many Ukrainians affected by this war, including a family I hosted in my home for a year, I am committed to maintaining the UKs military support particularly as the freezing winter weather approaches. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps meets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv (Ukrainian Presidential Press Office/PA) Mr Shapps previously visited Ukraine in August in his former role as energy secretary. On that occasion, he discussed support for Ukraines recovery from the war, and visited a childrens nursery previously attended by one of the Ukrainian children he hosted in his home. Like Mr Shapps, Ukrainian defence minister Mr Umerov is a recent appointee to his role. Former defence minister Oleksii Reznikov was sacked amid an anti-corruption drive by Mr Zelensky, after concerns about procurement processes with Ukrainian defence. The two defence ministers first met in Ramstein, Germany, during a meeting of 50 nations at last weeks Ukraine Defence Contact Group. Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony, said new commitments of military aid first discussed in Ramstein would help build Ukraines strength and resilience through the winter and beyond. He added: The recent strikes on the Black Sea Fleet are another example of how Ukraine retains the initiative. Putin has lost control of the war he started, and Russia is diminished as a consequence. On X, Mr Zelensky said: I received UK Defence Secretary (Grant Shapps) in Kyiv. I am profoundly grateful to the UK for all the financial, humanitarian, and military support, including crucial long-range capabilities. We discussed further defence co-operation and steps to strengthen Ukraines air defence. Ukraines offensive to push Russian forces out of occupied areas of its territory continues. Last week, Ukrainian armed forces launched a missile strike against Russias Black Sea fleet headquarters in Sevastopol. Russia has accused Western nations allied with Ukraine of helping to plan and conduct the attack, which appeared to kill the fleets top admiral. However, Viktor Sokolov has apparently since appeared in a video conference call with other Kremlin chiefs. ROTTERDAM - Police officers from the special intervention service at the Erasmus MC Rotterdam on Rochussenstraat, which has been cordoned off. A suspect has been arrested after two shooting incidents. One of the shooting incidents was at the Erasmus MC. A fire was also set there. ANP BAS CZERWINSKI netherlands out - belgium out (ANP, ANP) A lone gunman wearing a bulletproof vest opened fire in an apartment and a hospital in the Dutch port city of Rotterdam on Thursday, killing three people, including a 14-year-old girl, police said. The shooting sent patients and medics fleeing the Erasmus Medical Center in downtown Rotterdam, including some who were wheeled out of the building in beds. Others barricaded themselves into rooms and stuck hand-written signs to windows to show their location. Police Chief Fred Westerbeke told reporters that the shooter was a 32-year-old student from Rotterdam. He was arrested at the hospital carrying a firearm. His identity was not released, and the motive for the shootings was still under investigation. He first shot and killed a 39-year-old woman and seriously injured her 14-year-old daughter at an apartment close to where the suspect lived, Police Chief Fred Westerbeke said. Police said the girl later died of her injuries. The shooter then went to the nearby Erasmus Medical Center where he shot and killed a 43-year-old man, a teacher at the academic hospital, police said. He also started fires at the scenes of both shootings. The identities of the victims were not released. The suspect was cooperating with police, Westerbeke said. It was a black day, said Rotterdam Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb. Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima expressed their sympathy on social media. Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the victims of the violence this afternoon in Rotterdam, the royal pair wrote. We also think of everybody who lived in fear during these terrible actions, they added. The Erasmus Medical Center appealed on social media for people not to go to the hospital, but later said it was reopening. It said that all appointments scheduled for Friday would go ahead as planned. There have been scores of small explosions and at homes and businesses across Rotterdam this year, blamed on rival drug gangs. There was no immediate suggestion that Thursday's shooting was linked to the feuding drug gangs. Metropolitan Police firearms officers have returned to their normal duties after some put down their weapons in response to a colleague being charged with murder. The crisis emerged earlier this month following the Crown Prosecution Services decision to charge an officer with murdering Chris Kaba last year. The 24-year-old, who was unarmed, died after being shot through the windscreen of a car in Streatham Hill, south-east London, on September 6 2022. The officer appeared before Westminster Magistrates Court last week, but was granted anonymity, a decision the media will challenge before an Old Bailey judge. More than 100 officers were reported to have handed in their tickets, an accreditation to permit them to carry firearms while on the job, after the officer named only as NX121 was charged on September 20. Scotland Yard placed the Army on standby to cover counter-terrorism duties if needed, but they did not end up being deployed. Officers from other forces also provided the Met with help during that time, but on Thursday evening the force announced they are no longer required. Members of campaign group Justice For Chris Kaba give a statement outside Westminster Magistrates Court (Lucy North/PA) It said: We no longer require mutual aid officers to assist in London, and we are grateful to our police colleagues who offered us their support. There remains no current requirement from the Ministry of Defence or armed forces for assistance. Over the past 24 hours, further armed officers have returned to armed duties ensuring we have a comprehensive and London wide firearms response in our communities, and at key protected locations. Senior officers continue to meet with and support colleagues through this time. Following the revolt, Scotland Yard acknowledged the situation had prompted a number of officers to step back from armed duties while they consider their position. Many officers had become concerned that it signals a shift in the way the decisions they take in the most challenging circumstances will be judged, the force added. Home Secretary Suella Braverman ordered a review of armed policing following the revolt, and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said officers need clarity over the legal powers. Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said: There is a concern on the part of firearms officers that even if they stick to the tactics and training they have been given, they will face years of protracted legal proceedings which impact on their personal wellbeing and that of their family. While previous reviews have been announced, they have not delivered change. Carrying a firearm is voluntary. We rely on officers who are willing to put themselves at risk on a daily basis to protect the public from dangerous criminals including terrorists. Officers need sufficient legal protection to enable them to do their job and keep the public safe, and the confidence that it will be applied consistently and without fear or favour. The Metropolitan Police Federation, the group which represents officers from the rank of constable to chief inspector in the Met, offered Sir Mark its support following the publication of his letter. The Spectator has said its profits in the UK grew last year, as the nearly 200-year-old magazine gears up for a sale. The weekly magazine, which was first published in 1828, said it is a profitable business which has shown resilience through tough market conditions. The company reported an increase in its UK earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) to 4.8 million in 2022, up from 4.4 million the year before. Its revenues totalled 20.8 million last year, up 2.5% compared with 2021, it disclosed. The increase was driven up by non-subscription sales, such as income from events, broadcast media and advertising, which climbed by 13% last year. Revenue from magazine subscriptions was flat year on year, making 16.3 million as it ramped up investment in the digital magazine. The editor of The Spectator, Fraser Nelson, said: We are now over 20 million in revenue with profitability that has shown resilience through tough market conditions. Across print, online and broadcast, The Spectator is now poised to begin what I have no doubt will be the greatest chapter in its long history. On a group level, which includes published content in the US and Australia, its operating profit fell to 2.6 million from 2.9 million the prior year. The Daily and Sunday Telegraph and The Spectator magazine will reportedly be put up for sale (Alamy/PA) The magazine, which says its writers have no party line, is reportedly weeks away from being put up for sale, as well as the Daily and Sunday Telegraph owner Telegraph Media Group. They were taken over by Lloyds Banking Group earlier this year from former owners the Barclay family, who were unable to pay their debts to the bank. The owner of the Scotsman and the Yorkshire Post, National World, emerged as a potential buyer of the Telegraph newspapers, confirming that it was considering taking part in a sale process when it goes ahead. The Telegraph newspapers and The Spectator could be sold to different buyers once their respective sales processes go ahead. The Spectator had about 122,500 paid subscribers around the world at the end of last year, with the vast majority in the UK. It marks a 56% increase on its pre-pandemic total paid subscribers in 2019. Mr Nelson added: When I became editor in 2009, the industry was just starting a descent that would see magazine sales fall by more than two thirds over the decade. But subscriptions to The Spectator doubled and so, now, has our income. The Prime Minister has said he understands the frustration faced by parents of children whose education has been badly disrupted by the reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) crisis. More than 170 schools around the country have been impacted by the crumbling concrete, with St Leonards Catholic School in Durham among the worst affected. Pupils in most year groups there have had face-to-face lessons as little as one day a week since the start of term, and those able to go in for lessons have been taught in the sports hall or in corridors, without desks and with clipboards to lean on. Parents held a demonstration of support at the school, which has 1,490 pupils and is among the top-performing state schools at GCSE in the North East, while education minister Baroness Barran visited the site on Wednesday. Parents demonstrate in support of St Leonards Catholic School, Durham (Tom Wilkinson/PA) Nationally, parents and schools were informed about the Raac crisis only days before term was due to start. Rishi Sunak was asked about the issue when he appeared on BBC Radio Tees on Thursday. He said: I know how enormously frustrating the timing of this Raac situation was, but when the Government received new information, new advice about the risk posed by Raac in schools specifically, it was right that we took action. Of course the timing was frustrating, but the worst thing to have done would have been to sit on that and wait and put our kids at risk. What I can say is were working as quickly as possible providing the funding to schools, to get the surveys done to help them put mitigations in place so we can get all our kids back and face-to-face education as quickly as possible. Speaking about St Leonards in particular, Mr Sunak said it was on the Governments list to be rebuilt and a feasibility study was almost complete, with the procurement, design and planning happening before the end of the year. Mary Kelly Foy, Labour MP for Durham, who has campaigned with parents at St Leonards (Tom Wilkinson/PA) Labour MP for Durham, Mary Kelly Foy, said: Just last week a Department for Education minister told me in a meeting the rebuild of St Leonards was not an immediate priority. However, it is welcome that by campaigning alongside parents, pupils and staff we have pushed the DfE to commit to delivering a modern, safe school as a matter of urgency. I seriously doubt the families of pupils at St Leonards school think the Prime Minister deserves a pat on the back for his neglect of our school estate. Nick Hurn, chief executive of the Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust which runs the school, said Mr Sunaks comments were encouraging. He said: For the Prime Minister to today refer to the procurement, design and planning happening by the end of the year reinforces the Governments intentions and commitment. The Prime Minister was also asked to comment on a North Yorkshire primary school which is holding fundraisers to buy computers to replace its 12-year-old machines. Mr Sunak said: I care passionately about our childrens education. Park View School in London, which has been affected by Raac, pictured earlier this month (James Manning/PA) I think that probably one of the most important things I can do is make sure that we have a world-class education system to set our kids up for the future. That is pretty much my most important job quite frankly. School funding over this next year is going to be just shy of 60 billion. When you look at it per pupil, divide that by the number of pupils that it goes on, that will be at its highest ever level. So on a per pupil basis, theres more money going into our schools than there ever has been in history. The Prime Minister was asked about almost half of all children in Middlesbrough growing up in poverty. He said: The most important thing we can do to ensure children dont grow up in poverty is to ensure that their parents are in work. Mr Sunak said that since 2010, several 100,000 fewer children were being raised in workless households. Families on Universal Credit were being helped with the cost of living with 900 of direct support. Asked if the child poverty levels were an indictment on 13 years of Conservative rule, the Prime Minister said: There are over a million fewer people living in poverty since 2010, and hundreds of thousands fewer children living in poverty since 2010. And inequality as we measure it is also lower, so I just respectfully disagree. The job is never done. The Prime Minister visited the University Hospital of North Tees, known as North Tees General, in January (Phil Noble/PA) Mr Sunak was also asked about North Tees General Hospital, amid complaints from listeners of leaking roofs and freezing pipes in the maternity ward, with claims that it was not fit for purpose. After presenter Amy Oakden said Raac was also in hospitals as well as schools, the Prime Minister said 700 million had been put aside to tackle the issue in hospitals. But he would not commit to rebuilding North Tees General Hospital. Mr Sunak said: The hospitals that have got the most serious Raac problems have been moved into the rebuilding programme as you would expect us to prioritise those ones. Police officers in England and Wales are switching off their body-worn cameras and deleting and sharing footage on WhatsApp, a BBC investigation found. The broadcaster says it determined more than 150 reports of misuse of body-worn cameras. The investigation found several serious allegations, which included reports in seven police forces where officers shared camera footage with friends or colleagues, either in person or online via social media. Other allegations included images of a naked person being shared between officers and cameras being used to record conversations. The National Police Chief Councils lead for body-worn video, Acting Chief Constable Jim Colwell (Tim Ireland/ PA) There were also reports of lost footage, deleted footage, videos not being marked as evidence and officers switching off cameras during incidents and facing no penalty. The National Police Chief Councils lead for body-worn video, Acting Chief Constable Jim Colwell, told the BBC the incidents go to the heart of what undermines confidence in policing. The Home Office told the broadcaster: Police use of technology, including body-worn video cameras, must be lawful, proportionate and justified. London Mayor Sadiq Khan recently created the London Policing Board to help him scrutinise the force, following a recommendation in Baroness Louise Caseys review of the culture and standards of the Metropolitan Police. Baroness Casey told the BBC police forces have the wrong attitude towards the cameras. She said: There are too many dark things that go on that we are not seeing. The sooner (officers) get their heads around the fact that its a tool that would help them build trust theyd be on to something instead of hiding it. Earlier this month, a senior police officer in Ireland said body-worn cameras have the potential to transform policing in Ireland, with an operational pilot beginning in the middle of next year and plans to rollout the devices in 2025. Scotlands First Minister Huzma Yousaf has also vowed to equip Scotlands police with body-worn cameras. The Government has launched a public consultation to seek views on raising the threshold for describing a drink as alcohol free in a bid to encourage people to buy the alternative beverages. Opinions will be sought on whether to label a drink alcohol free at 0.5% alcohol by volume (ABV) up from the current UK threshold of 0.05% in line with other countries including the US, Germany and Australia, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said. A higher threshold could see more no and low-alcohol products on the market and encourage more people to choose the alternative drinks, according to the government department. Low alcohol refers to any product at 1.2% ABV or below. The Health Survey for England 2021 found a fifth of adults currently drink above the low-risk guidelines of 14 units per week, which the DHSC described as significantly increasing their risk of ill health, poorer quality of life, and even premature death. As part of the consultation, the Government is also scoping out views on measures it can take with the industry to prevent children and young people from accessing and consuming these products, including potential age restriction warnings on beverages. Additionally, it will be seeking opinions on how to support those looking to moderate their alcohol consumption, provide them with greater choice when looking for alternatives and whether to update labelling guidelines. Public health minister Neil OBrien said: No and low-alcohol drinks are getting more and more popular, and we are looking to further support their growth. Public health minister Neil OBrien said the Government wants to encourage the growth of no and low-alcohol alternatives (David Woolfall/UK Parliament/PA) He added: We want to encourage the growth of no and low-alcohol alternatives for those looking to moderate their alcohol intake. Industry leaders welcomed the consultation. Matt Lambert, chief executive of The Portman Group, which regulates alcohol marketing in the UK, said: We welcome the new consultation, which we hope will help result in greater clarity on labels and encourage further uptake of low and no-alcohol alternatives. Our annual polling repeatedly shows that these products are already helping UK consumers moderate their drinking and avoid harms such as drink driving. It is also an important opportunity to highlight the continued commitment of producers to market and sell these products responsibly to adult consumers. Veteran MSP Fergus Ewing has refused to say if he will rejoin the SNP group at Holyrood after being suspended for a week for voting against the Scottish Government. While First Minister and SNP leader Humza Yousaf said he hopes Mr Ewing will rejoin party colleagues at Holyrood after the punishment, the Inverness and Nairn MSP would only say he will have to consider that. His comments came after SNP MSPs voted to suspend the former rural economy secretary from their group for seven days after he voted with the opposition at Holyrood in a vote of no confidence against Scottish Green co-leader, and Government minister, Lorna Slater. Mr Ewing has also spoken out against the Scottish Government on issues such as the new licensing regime for short-term rental properties as well as the stalled deposit return scheme. Asked if he would rejoin after his suspension, Mr Ewing told journalists at Holyrood: I have been suspended for a week, that was the decision of the group. Humza Yousaf said he hopes Mr Ewing will be reinstated to the SNP group after his suspension (Jane Barlow/PA) I will have to consider that and decide what to do. I havent begun to do that yet because Ive been focusing on speaking out in my constituents interests. Mr Yousaf said: People should represent their constituents but, if you are a member of the SNP, elected on the SNP ticket, there is, of course, standing orders imposed that you have to abide as an SNP MSP. The SNP leader said Mr Ewing was in breach of those standing orders, adding that a very proportionate sanction of a weeks suspension from the parliamentary group at Holyrood had been overwhelmingly backed by MSPs. He added: I hope that after a week Fergus is reinstated back as an SNP MSP. SNP MSP and Scottish Net Zero Secretary Mairi McAllan also said the week-long suspension is proportionate given Mr Ewings actions. She voted for the sanction, which Mr Ewing has two weeks to appeal against, when the partys MSPs met in Holyrood to discuss the matter on Wednesday evening. Mairi McAllan said the suspension is proportionate (PA) SNP MP Joanna Cherry, however, claimed Mr Ewings rebellion was the product of years of inadequate debate in our party about policy making. In a statement posted on social media, Ms Cherry, who has criticised the Scottish Governments policy on gender recognition reform, said: I may not agree with Fergus Ewing on everything but he is a man of integrity. Im glad there were rebels on this vote. His rebellion is the product of years of inadequate debate in our party about policy making. That needs to change. Dont shoot the messenger. But speaking on BBC Radio Scotland on Thursday, Ms McAllan said there is still room for free thinkers within the SNP. Asked if she had voted in favour of his suspension, Ms McAllan said: In full transparency, yes I did. MP Joanna Cherry said Mr Ewings rebellion is the result of years of inadequate debate within the SNP (PA) It is something I certainly would expect to be the outcome if I had done what Fergus did. It is part of a normal party mechanism in a democratic system. Asked whether politicians can express their opinions within the SNP, she added: Of course, I like to think of myself as a free thinker. In particular, the First Minister has been quite clear he wants people to come to him and to speak to him internally if they have any concerns they wish to raise, he has an open door in that regard. But Fergus is a longstanding MSP, he has been a minister, he understands the procedures here and what the outcome is of voting the way he did. Ms McAllan also made clear she does not agree with Ms Cherrys comments, adding that suspending Mr Ewing was a proportionate response to a serious breach of party standing orders which was voted on by majority, overwhelming majority, by the group in Holyrood. Labour is ready to serve the people of the UK again, leader Sir Keir Starmer will insist as he joins the campaign trail ahead of Scotlands first recall by-election. He will say that recapturing the Rutherglen and Hamilton West seat, which was won by Margaret Ferrier for the SNP in 2019, will put the two failing governments at Holyrood and Westminster on notice. Voters in the constituency go to the polls next week to elect a successor to Ms Ferrier, and Sir Keir will declare the by-election to be of monumental significance. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar with the partys candidate in the by-election, Michael Shanks (PA) With the contest a straight fight between Labour and the SNP who won the seat in the last general election only for Ms Ferrier to be suspended from the party the following year after breaking Covid rules Sir Keir is making a campaigning visit to the constituency on Friday. Earlier this week, SNP leader and Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf declared that the buck stops with him if the party fails to hold on to the seat. The constituency has switched between Labour and the SNP in the last four UK general elections, with Mr Yousaf accepting his party faces some very difficult circumstances in this seat, given Margaret Ferriers actions. Sir Keir, who will campaign with Labour candidate Michael Shanks, will stress to voters there is another way the Labour way. (PA Graphics) He is expected to say: This by-election is of monumental significance. For far too long the people of Rutherglen and Hamilton West have been let down by two incompetent governments that dont speak for you, and a rule-breaking MP who refused to do the right thing. Next Thursday, voters in Rutherglen and Hamilton West can say enough is enough. You can vote for change and you can elect a local champion in Michael Shanks who will put our two failing governments on notice. Labour is once again the party of working people and ready to serve the people of the UK. We can tackle the cost-of-living crisis, put money in working peoples pockets and make work pay. Sir Keir will stress the importance of respect for a days graft accusing SNP candidate Katy Loudon of hiring workers on zero hours contracts. First Minister Humza Yousaf with SNP candidate Katy Loudon (Andrew Milligan/PA) This, he will say, runs totally counter to the asks of people across Rutherglen and Hamilton West for security in work, secure family finances, and fairness in exchange for hard work. He will state: The fact is that there is another way the Labour way. We were founded to seek power and use it to serve working people, and we will do it again. But Ms Loudon said: Keir Starmer has a brass neck turning up to Rutherglen and Hamilton West after he and his pro-Brexit Labour Party have shamefully stayed silent over cost of living support, and offered no meaningful policies to help people through this crisis. Keir Starmer and Anas Sarwar have had ample opportunity to show they will stand up for people in this constituency by backing the SNPs calls for an energy rebate and tax relief for mortgage holders but theyve refused to do so every time. Right now, all that is on offer from Labour is the Tory status quo. As an SNP MP, I will always stand up against Westminster austerity and work for the real cost of living support for people across this community. Meanwhile it is understood the SNP outsourced the distribution of one of its leaflets in the camapign to a third party business, with the party now said to be reviewing its distribution arrangements. Storm Agnes has hit the UK with gale force winds, floods and power outages after battering Ireland. The first named storm of the season drummed up a high of 79mph winds in Capel Curig, a village in Wales, on Wednesday evening. Elsewhere, winds were recorded reaching speeds of 68mph in Aberdaron, Wales, 58mph in Glenanne, Northern Ireland, and 54mph in Camborne, Cornwall. Agnes triggered a series of Met Office yellow weather warnings for wind and rain across the UK, with forecasts of damaging winds and big stormy seas. The UK has experienced flooding, travel disruption and power outages. A woman had to be rescued from her car in Co Londonderry, Northern Ireland, after it was trapped by floodwater. An easyJet plane was unable to land in Belfast on Wednesday afternoon and the airline told the Belfast Telegraph that the difficulty was due to winds gusting outside the limits of the aircraft. Around 135 properties on the Isles of Scilly, in the south-west of England, experienced power outages for just under four hours earlier on Wednesday, according to National Grid. But the Met Office said the main impact on the UK has been strong winds. People walk along the sea front in Scarborough, North Yorkshire (Danny Lawson/PA) Meteorologist Dan Stroud told the PA news agency that gusts are starting to ease in England and Wales. He said: Its an improving picture across England and Wales but theres still some very strong gusts actually further north across Northern Ireland and Scotland. But were expecting the peak of the wind gusts in Storm Agnes to gradually ease during the overnight period. Ireland, where Agnes first made landfall, saw flooding and travel disruption, with fallen trees blocking roads and flights and ferries also being affected. A roof was blown off a building in Co Cork. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) had warned of dangerous conditions on the coasts. A roof blew off a building in Youghal, Co Cork (Niall Carson/PA) Clifden and Achill Island RNLI braved the storm to rescue a lone sailor in a vessel located 10 miles west of Clare Island. The rescue organisation said in a statement: Sea conditions at the time were very difficult and the lifeboat crews faced four meter swells, driving rain and Force 8 winds out at sea. Alerts triggered by Storm Agnes included a wind warning until 7am on Thursday, which was cancelled early on Thursday morning. The warning stretched across Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, as well as the south-west of England, the West Midlands and most of the north of England. There were also rain warnings for much of Scotland until Thursday at 3am. A teenage boy has been arrested in connection with the cutting down of one of the UKs most photographed trees. The Sycamore Gap tree, on Hadrians Wall in Northumberland, was made famous in a key scene in Kevin Costners 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves. Northumbria Police launched an investigation on Thursday after the tree was deliberately felled overnight, saying they were treating it as an act of vandalism. The force later said a 16-year-old boy had been arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage. He is in police custody and assisting officers with their inquiries, a spokesperson said. (PA Graphics) Superintendent Kevin Waring, of Northumbria Police, said: This is a world-renowned landmark and the events of today have caused significant shock, sadness and anger throughout the local community and beyond. An investigation was immediately launched following this vandalism, and this afternoon we have arrested one suspect in connection with our enquiries. Given our investigation remains at a very early stage, we are keeping an open mind. The tree stood in a visible gap along Hadrians Wall in Northumberland (Owen Humphreys/PA) I am appealing to the public for information to assist us if you have seen or heard anything suspicious that may be of interest to us, please let us know. Any information no matter how small or insignificant you think it may be could prove absolutely crucial to our enquiries. The sycamore, which stood in a dramatic dip in Hadrians Wall which could be seen from the nearby road, was looked after by both Northumberland National Park Authority and the National Trust. The landmark was one of the most photographed trees in the UK (Tom White/PA) Asked about the felling, Rishi Sunak told ITV Tyne Tees and Border: The police are currently investigating the incident, so it wouldnt be right for me to comment on that one in particular. The Prime Minister added the Government is absolutely committed to protecting the UKs natural landscape. Heritage minister Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay said: Like everyone across the North East, and far beyond, I am heartbroken at the loss of this iconic part of our nations heritage. It is unfathomable that anyone would want to deny future generations the opportunity to have their lives enriched, as those of so many people from all over the world have been, by this breathtaking site. The National Trust said it was shocked and saddened to confirm that the iconic tree had been cut down overnight after pictures emerged on Thursday morning of it lying on its side near the ancient Roman wall, which is a Unesco World Heritage site. The news was met with dismay and outrage by walkers groups on social media. Anyone with information is asked to contact police via the Tell Us Something page on the Northumbria Police website or by calling 101 quoting log NP-20230928-0295. A teenage boy remains in custody being questioned by detectives after a 15-year-old girl with a bright future was stabbed to death on her way to school. The much-loved youngster, who has not been named, died after being stabbed in the neck with a foot-long knife during the Wednesday morning rush hour in Croydon, south London, a witness said. A 17-year-old boy, who knew the victim, was arrested just over an hour after the attack which took place on busy Wellesley Road at around 8.30am. A steady flow of well-wishers left flowers and cards near the scene on Wednesday evening, and the girls school paid tribute to its valued friend and pupil. Anthony King, chairman of My Ends a project helping combat youth violence in Croydon, was with the girls family after the incident and said they were heartbroken. He added: She had a bright future ahead of her. She was in her GCSE year. Mr King described the girl as an absolutely incredible young lady and told of how others said she was jovial, very comedic. He also said the arrested boy had been known to local community groups for the past couple of years. Floral tributes at the scene in Croydon (Lucy North/PA) Witnesses told the PA news agency the girl and her alleged attacker were not in a relationship. One of the cards left near to where the attack took place read: Sorry we live in this crazy world this makes no sense. Fly high up there my mummy will look after you. RIP beautiful, forever young, taken too soon. Thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends, God bless. Another said: Rest in peace little princess. So sad your life is taken away at your prime you have touched my soul. Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley visited the scene and said: The senseless murder of a 15-year-old girl on her way to school is impossible to comprehend. It was moving and humbling to meet many members of the exceptional Croydon community who have come together in support of a family now dealing with the most unimaginable grief. Emergency services at the scene near the Whitgift shopping centre in Croydon, south London (Jordan Reynolds/PA) The girl was a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift School, a private girls school in Croydon. The school said in a statement: We are deeply shocked by the senseless and tragic death of our much-loved and valued friend and pupil. It will take some time for the Old Palace community to come to terms with this terrible news, and we will offer support to our pupils as we try to do so. Above all, we send our love and deepest sympathies to the girls family at this unimaginably distressing time. The girl was a pupil of The Old Palace of John Whitgift School in Croydon (PA) Security worker Victor Asare told PA that blood ran like water and members of the public rushed to help after the girl was attacked. He said: The blood was coming like water. A lot of people came, everyone came off the bus. (The suspect) ran away. Everybody was crying and screaming. The girl was on the floor. We tried to catch him and a lot of people tried to save the girl. I was so shocked, I was shaken. Its somebodys daughter. I finished work but couldnt sleep, so came back, I wanted to see if the girl was OK. Mr Asare said the girl, who was wearing a green school blazer, looked as if she didnt want the boy to come closer before she was stabbed in the neck with a knife that was black, thin and about a foot long. Emergency services were called to Wellesley Road at around 8.30am but the girl was pronounced dead at the scene 50 minutes later. Forensic investigators at the scene near the Whitgift shopping centre (Lucy North/PA) A bus driver and a passer-by were seen desperately trying to save the girl before emergency services arrived, with police at the scene within two minutes. A mother of two, who wanted to be named only as Bridget, said: I was on the bus before and came off and walked back down, I saw them resuscitating her. The driver was holding her, and a lady. The emergency services were already here when I walked back. She said two other schoolgirls, believed to be the victims friends, were trying to get through the police cordon but were held back. James Watkins, from Mainz World which runs prevention and intervention projects for children and young people, was with the girls family at the scene between 9am and 10am. He said: They were devastated and I would say more importantly in shock, I dont think it feels real for them. Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain speaking at the scene of the fatal stabbing (Lucy North/PA) A red double decker bus on route 60, three police vehicles and about a dozen officers, as well as a forensics tent, could be seen in the taped off area outside the Whitgift Centre. Met Police Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain told reporters at the scene: This is every parents worst nightmare, and I know the officers who responded this morning, along with our emergency service colleagues, are devastated at the victims death. This is an emotion I share and I know people across Croydon will be feeling the same. The victims family has been informed and our thoughts are with them at what must be an incredibly difficult time. Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said he was absolutely heartbroken at the news of the girls death. Witnesses or anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting reference CAD 1601/27Sep, and to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online. American XL bully dogs need to be banned because they are a danger to our communities, the Prime Minister has said. But Rishi Sunak would not be drawn into whether plans to ban the breed would be enough to prevent further harm caused by the dogs. Early in September, a 60-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possessing a dog dangerously out of control after two men and an 11-year-old girl were injured by an XL bully crossbreed which was out of control in Birmingham. Separately, Ian Price, a 52 year old man from Staffordshire, died in hospital after being attacked by two XL bullies. Following a spate of attacks involving the dogs, the Prime Minister announced a ban of the breed will be brought into law by the end of this year. XL bully owners marched through London over the weekend to protest against the ban, but were encouraged to leave their dogs at home. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak (Hollie Adams/PA) Asked by BBC Radio West Midlands if the planned ban would be enough to stop more people being harmed, Mr Sunak said: These American XL bully dogs are a danger to our communities and we are urgently working on ways to stop these attacks and to protect the public, not just in the West Midlands but across the country. Last week ministers brought together police and the experts to define the breed of the dog, and then once we have defined the breed of the dog we will be able to ban the breed under the Dangerous Dogs Act. Those new laws will be in place by the end of the year. Exactly how that transition works, which you spoke to, is something that is being worked on between the police and the experts as I mentioned. But what is clear is these dogs are a danger to our communities and we are taking action to try and stop these attacks and protect the public. The XL bully, which is developed from the American pit bull terrier, is currently not a recognised as a specific breed by the Kennel Club. Under the ban, owners could be required to neuter their dogs and muzzle them in public, the Governments chief vet has suggested. Archaeologists in Israel have discovered what they believe to be the remains of an Ancient Greek courtesan. The cremated remains of a young woman were found in a burial cave alongside a perfectly preserved bronze box mirror on a rocky slope close to Kibbutz Ramat Rachel, not far from Jerusalem. The tomb is believed to date back to some time between the late 4th century and early 3rd century BCE, according to a joint study carried out by Tel Aviv University and the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA). Guy Stiebel, from the department of archeology and the Ancient Near East at Tel Aviv University, told CNN in a phone interview that the find is very significant. The high-quality mirror was found to be perfectly preserved. - Emil Aladjem/Israel Antiquities Authority Its almost like bringing back to life a woman who passed away 2,300 years ago, he said of the research, which he compared to a jigsaw puzzle or riddle. He and his team believe this could be the first discovery of the remains of a hetaira, as courtesans were known in Ancient Greece. If we are correct with our interpretation, it appears that this burial points to the very unique circumstances of what we call a hetaira, a Greek lady who accompanied one of the Hellenistic government officials, or more likely a high general, he said. In the Middle East and eastern Mediterranean, the Hellenistic age refers to the period between the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BCE and the conquest of Egypt by Rome in 30 BCE. Stiebel told CNN that he and his team believe the woman would have been among the first Greeks to arrive in the region. Liat Oz, the director of the excavation on behalf of the IAA, described the mirror found in the tomb alongside the remains. This is only the second mirror of this type that has been discovered to date in Israel, and in total, only 63 mirrors of this type are known around the Hellenistic world, she said in a news release about the discovery. Researchers say the mirror is incredibly rare, with just 63 discovered in the Hellenistic world. - Emil Aladjem/Israel Antiquities Authority The quality of the production of the mirror is so high that it was preserved in excellent condition, and it looked as if it was made yesterday. Folding box mirrors such as this were documented in tombs and temples in the Greco-Hellenistic world, the researchers noted. They were usually decorated with engravings or reliefs of idealized female figures or goddesses. Stiebel said a woman of high status might have received such a mirror as part of a dowry, but this was unlikely to have been the case in this instance as married women rarely left their homes in Greece. Alternatively, he said, she might have been a courtesan, as they often received gifts from men. Likening the hetairai to Japanese geishas, Stiebel explained that the women were regarded as muses. He said: Women in society were breaking glass ceilings in very strict and male-oriented Greek society and we do know that they served not only as sexual escorts, but were similar to geishas and provided an element of culture. For that they were given gifts and part of the economy of gifts in Ancient Greece had to do with mirrors. The fact the remains were cremated also hinted at the womans origins, Stiebel said. Cremation is alien to this country and the religion, he said, explaining that cremation is not only forbidden in Judaism but would not have been practiced by the Persian empire either, which occupied the region at that time. The tomb was found in the middle of nowhere, not near any village or farm or settlement, which suggests that she would have been connected with one of the military campaigns and dated to the time of Alexandra the Great or slightly later. We are suggesting that maybe she was with one of the generals. Stiebel went on to explain the significance of four iron nails found with the mirror and remains. Nails were used to protect the deceased and also to protect the living people from the dead. The bodies were literally nailed down to ensure they will not come back to the world of the living, he said. Stiebel told CNN that the team are continuing with further research in order to zoom in on the finer details of the mirror. He said: We hope to shed more light on the origin of the production of the art and maybe shed more light on the history of the owner of the mirror, the general who bought it or where she came from. The research will be presented for the first time at an Israeli archaeology conference next month. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com A car struck five United Auto Workers union picketers in a hit-and-run while they were protesting in Michigan on Tuesday, police say. The driver of a dark Chevrolet HHR was trying to exit the General Motors facility on Bristol Road in Genesee County but was blocked by picketers, the Metro Police Authority of Genesee County said in a news release. The driver then drove through the line of picketers, hitting five people, and fled, police said. The victims sustained minor injuries, and one was taken to a local hospital. Investigators are in the process of identifying the driver of the hit-and-run vehicle, police said. United Auto Workers members and supporters on a picket line outside the General Motors Co. plant in Swartz Creek, Mich., on Sept. 25, 2023. (Emily Elconin / Bloomberg via Getty Images) Police issued a warrant late Thursday for a 19-year-old Flint man, whom they didnt name. Authorities said he was working as a third-party employee at the plant and wasnt an employee of General Motors. The UAW, the largest union in the U.S. auto industry, went on strike Sept. 15 against the Big Three automakers Ford, General Motors and Stellantis. About 18,300 workers are involved in the strike, which is 12.5% of the UAW's 146,000 force. The number of strikers may grow, the union warned, if significant progress isnt made in negotiations by Friday, said a source familiar with the matter. Among the union's demands are a 40% wage hike over four years, beefed-up retirement benefits and full pay for a shortened 32-hour workweek, down from 40 hours. By Luc Cohen NEW YORK (Reuters) -Sam Bankman-Fried, the indicted founder of now-bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange FTX, may face a "very long sentence" if convicted at his fraud trial starting next week, the judge overseeing the case said on Thursday. U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan's comments came just before he denied the 31-year-old former billionaire's request to be released from jail temporarily during the trial to better help his lawyers mount his defense case. Kaplan said Bankman-Fried was a flight risk. "Your client in the event of conviction could be looking at a very long sentence," Kaplan said in a hearing in Manhattan federal court. "If things begin to look bleak maybe the time would come when he would seek to flee." Bankman-Fried has pleaded not guilty to seven counts of fraud and conspiracy stemming from FTX's collapse in November 2022. He faces a statutory maximum of 110 years in prison, though any sentence would be determined by Kaplan based on a range of factors and he would likely get far less. His lawyers asked Kaplan for temporary release earlier this week, arguing they could not speak with him after each trial day to prepare for the next day's witnesses and testimony, which they could not do if he were taken back to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn at the end of each trial day. Kaplan said on Thursday he was sympathetic to the defense's concerns, and would arrange for Bankman-Fried to arrive to court at 7 a.m. on most trial days to speak with his lawyers for several hours before testimony begins. Prosecutors say Bankman-Fried stole billions of dollars in FTX customer deposits to plug losses at Alameda Research, a crypto-focused hedge fund he controlled. They opposed Bankman-Fried's request for temporary release. On Thursday, prosecutor Danielle Kudla told Kaplan that Bankman-Fried had "ample opportunity to prepare for trial" during the 7-1/2 months he was free on bail at his parents' Palo Alto, California, home. Kaplan jailed him on Aug. 11, after finding he likely tampered with witnesses at least twice - including by sharing former Alameda chief executive officer Caroline Ellison's private writings with a New York Times reporter. Ellison, also Bankman-Fried's former romantic partner, has pleaded guilty to fraud and is set to testify against him. The trial starts on Oct. 3 and could last up to six weeks. (Reporting by Luc Cohen in New York, Editing by Nick Zieminski) The FBI in Louisiana has been asked to assist the Baton Rouge Police Department in its criminal and internal investigation after attorneys filed a second federal lawsuit against the department, several officers and the city in connection with an alleged torture warehouse dubbed the Brave Cave, according to a complaint. The Baton Rouge Police Department is committed to addressing these troubling accusations and has initiated administrative and criminal investigations, the police department said in a statement to CNN on Wednesday. Police Chief Murphy Paul has asked FBI officials for its assistance to ensure an independent review of these complaints, the statement said. The latest lawsuit was filed September 18 in US District Court and says Ternell Brown, a Baton Rouge grandmother, was stopped by Baton Rouge Police Department, or BRPD, patrol officers while she was in the car with her husband in June. Brown was carrying two different types of prescription pills in the same container, which she lawfully possessed, it reads. Because BRPD officers deemed this behavior suspicious, she was taken to BRPDs black site, where she was forced to show officers that she was not hiding contraband in her vagina or rectum. After more than two hours, they let her go without charge, the complaint states. Her husband was not taken to the Brave Cave, according to the complaint. The lawsuit alleges the officers involved in the search were not acting as rogue officers when they sexually humiliated Mrs. Brown; rather, they were simply carrying out official BRPD policy (which) instructs officers that they may conduct these invasive strip searchers whenever they have reasonable suspicion to frisk a detainee. Such a policy runs directly contrary to longstanding US Supreme Court jurisprudence. This latest lawsuit comes just over three weeks after Baton Rouge Mayor Sharon Weston Broome announced Troy Lawrence Jr., one of the officers implicated in the black site operation, had resigned amid an investigation into the matter. The mayor said she was previously unaware of the facility and had directed Chief Paul to suspend all operations at the facility pending a thorough investigation by the BRPD. Jeremy Lee is seen in police body camera footage at the warehouse, which has since closed. - Thomas Frampton Investigation will take time, police chief says The site, officially known as the Narcotics Processing Facility, has been permanently closed and the Street Crimes Unit Officers have been disbanded and reassigned, according to the police departments statement. Lawrence Jr.s father Troy Lawrence serves as the departments Deputy Chief of Patrol Operations, according to the city website. Lawrence Jr. is named in two lawsuits filed regarding the Brave Cave. CNN has reached out to attorneys for Lawrence Jr., the police union and others named in the lawsuit. In a lawsuit filed last month, Baton Rouge resident Jeremy Lee, 21, alleges he was taken to the warehouse on January 9 and beaten as the officers periodically turned their body cameras on and off. Before being taken to the warehouse, Lee had been detained at a home without reasonable suspicion or probable cause, said the complaint. He was forced down in the middle of the street, his pants were pulled down so they could search him in public and officers grabbed his genitals. When he asked why he was being arrested, the officers refused to tell him why, according to the complaint. Baton Rouge Police Chief Murphy Paul is pictured at the department's headquarters in March. - Hilary Scheinuk/The Advocate/AP Officers used excessive force resulting in injuries that led to a visit to urgent care where he was diagnosed with a fractured left rib, chest pain, and left facial pain, said the complaint. Lee was charged with resisting an officer, according to the lawsuit, which indicates police didnt provide a reason for his detention. The investigation will take time, said Paul who is among those named in the lawsuits in a statement provided to CNN affiliate WBRZ. I understand everybody wants to get it right, but investigations take time, he said. Weve got to get it right, and sometimes I cant give it to you right now. But I assure you there will be a thorough investigation. An attorney representing both plaintiffs is receiving calls daily from Baton Rouge residents who were taken to this black site and illegally strip searched, the lawyer, Jessica Hawkins, said in a news release. These instances of abuse need to be properly investigated and addressed and whoever carried out these atrocities needs to be held accountable. Correction: An earlier version of this story misstated the roles of Troy Lawrence Jr. and his father, Troy Lawrence. The father serves as Deputy Chief of Patrol Operations; the son is named in two lawsuits related to the Brave Cave, and CNN has reached out to Lawrence Jr.s lawyers. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com By Jeff Mason PHOENIX (Reuters) -President Joe Biden will deliver a speech on Thursday warning that the United States faces a threat to its democracy, returning to an attack against Republican Donald Trump and his allies ahead of a 2024 election that is likely to be another face-off between the two men. Biden's remarks in Phoenix, Arizona, will also honor the legacy of the late Arizona Republican Senator John McCain, the 2008 Republican presidential nominee who died in 2018. Biden and McCain remained friends despite deep political differences. Biden will warn "there is something dangerous happening in America," according to prepared remarks of his speech. "There is an extremist movement that does not share the basic beliefs of our democracy. The MAGA Movement." Biden will say he doesn't think all Republicans ascribe to the 'MAGA' agenda, a reference to Trump's Make America Great Again slogan. But he will say, "there is no question that todays Republican Party is driven and intimidated by MAGA extremists." Biden's speech comes days before a likely government shutdown, a situation forced by Republicans loyal to Donald Trump in the House of Representatives. Biden's quest for a second term comes amid concerns about his advanced age - he will turn 81 in November - and economic worries in the U.S. He has stepped up his warnings about the potential threat to democracy posed by Trump as exemplified by the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. At a campaign fundraiser in San Francisco on Wednesday night, Biden said he was running in part because political violence in America is never, never, never, never acceptable. "Donald Trump and the MAGA Republicans are determined to destroy American democracy because they want to break down institutional structures," he said. Trump faces multiple indictments including for his role in the Jan. 6 riot that left several dead and over 100 police officers injured. He has suggested in recent weeks that the former Joint Chief of Staff deserves to be killed, and the Department of Justice should be defunded. The White House official said Biden's remarks in Tempe, Arizona, near Phoenix, will be the fourth in a series of speeches about the threat to democracy. Biden will also announce funding from the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan to construct the McCain Library in partnership with the McCain Institute and Arizona State University. Biden's speech follows the second 2024 Republican presidential debate held on Wednesday in California, which often devolved into cacophony, petty fights and bizarre comments by the seven candidates. Trump, who again skipped the debate, was labeled "missing in action" by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, while former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie mocked him as "Donald Duck". Trump instead gave a speech in Detroit to autoworkers, where he attacked Biden's support for electric vehicles. (Reporting by Jeff Mason; Writing by Steve Holland; Editing by Michael Perry, Heather Timmons and Nick Zieminski) SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) A new law in California will raise the minimum wage for fast food workers to $20 per hour next year, an acknowledgment from the state's Democratic leaders that most of the often overlooked workforce are the primary earners for their low-income households. When it takes effect on April 1, fast food workers in California will have the highest guaranteed base salary in the industry. The states minimum wage for all other workers $15.50 per hour is already among the highest in the United States. Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the law Thursday amid a throng of cheering workers and labor leaders at an event in Los Angeles. Newsom dismissed the popular view that fast food jobs are meant for teenagers to have their first experience in the workforce. That's a romanticized version of a world that doesn't exist, Newsom said. We have the opportunity to reward that contribution, reward that sacrifice and stabilize an industry. Newsoms signature reflects the power and influence of labor unions in the nations most populous state, which have worked to organize fast food workers in an attempt to improve their wages and working conditions. It also settles for now, at least a fight between labor and business groups over how to regulate the industry. In exchange for higher pay, labor unions have dropped their attempt to make fast food corporations liable for the misdeeds of their independent franchise operators in California, an action that could have upended the business model on which the industry is based. The industry, meanwhile, has agreed to pull a referendum related to worker wages off the 2024 ballot. That was a tectonic plate that had to be moved, Newsom said, referring to what he said were the more than 100 hours of negotiations it took to reach an agreement on the bills in the final weeks of the state legislative session. Mary Kay Henry, president of the Service Employees International Union International, said the law capped 10 years of work including 450 strikes across the state in the past two years. The moment was almost too much for Anneisha Williams, who held back tears as she spoke during a news conference just before Newsom signed the bill. Williams, a mother of six seven if you count her beloved dog works at a Jack in the Box restaurant in Inglewood. Theyve been with me on the picket line, and theyve been marching with me as well, Williams said of her children. This is for them. Newsom signing the law could win back some favor with organized labor, who sharply criticized him last week for vetoing a separate bill aimed at protecting the jobs of truck drivers amid the rise of self-driving technology. Unions have played a big part in Newsom's political rise in California, offering a reliable source of campaign cash. Newsoms appearance in Los Angeles comes a day after Republican presidential candidates but not Donald Trump appeared at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley for their second televised debate. Newsom, while denying any interest in a White House run, has positioned himself as a foil to GOP contenders and has traveled the country to criticize conservative positions on abortion and gun rights. His actions on hundreds of bills before him may be viewed through the lens of his future political ambitions. The new minimum wage for fast food workers will apply to restaurants with at least 60 locations nationwide, with an exception for restaurants that make and sell their own bread, like Panera Bread. Right now, Californias fast food workers earn an average of $16.60 per hour, or just over $34,000 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Thats below the California Poverty Measure for a family of four, a statistic calculated by the Public Policy Institute of California and the Stanford Center on Poverty and Equality that accounts for housing costs and publicly-funded benefits. The new $20 minimum wage is just a starting point. The law creates a Fast Food Council that has the power to increase that wage each year through 2029 by 3.5% or the change in averages for the U.S. Consumer Price Index for urban wage earners and clerical workers, whichever is lower. Now, the focus will shift to another group of low-wage California workers waiting for their own minimum wage increase. Lawmakers passed a separate bill earlier this month that would gradually raise the minimum wage for health care workers to $25 per hour over the next decade. That raise wouldnt apply to doctors and nurses, but to most everyone else who works at hospitals, dialysis clinics or other health care facilities. But unlike the fast food wage increase which Newsom helped negotiate the governor has not said if he would sign the raise for health care workers. The issue is complicated by the states Medicaid program, which is the main source of revenue for many hospitals. The Newsom administration has estimated the wage increase would cost the state billions of dollars in increased payments to health care providers. Labor unions that support the wage increase point to a study from the University of California-Berkeley Labor Center that said the states costs would be offset by a reduction in the number of people relying on publicly funded assistance programs. ___ Associated Press reporter Michael R. Blood contributed from Los Angeles. The crypto industry is making a big push in Washington to lobby lawmakers to pass new rules to regulate the currency. The movement, which organizers are calling "Stand with Crypto," has been led by the crypto exchange Coinbase (COIN) and more than 50 founders of crypto companies. They took to Capitol Hill on Wednesday to warn lawmakers that without new industry-friendly regulation, they would lose jobs overseas. This is going to be kind of like our 5G or semiconductor moment where in five years, we'll be thinking, how do we get this back onshore if we don't do something now, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong told Yahoo Finance Live in an exclusive interview. "We don't have clear rules on the books like 83% of the rest of the G-20 countries for how crypto should be regulated, consumers should be protected, and how this innovation can happen here in the US," he said. One option that Coinbase and others have pushed for is legislation that passed the House Financial Services Committee this summer on a bipartisan basis. That legislation seeks to create clarity around gaps between the rules of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), while also outlining what criteria would cause a crypto token to be classified as a commodity or as a security. Brian Armstrong, CEO and co-founder of Coinbase, speaks during the Milken Institute Global Conference on May 2, 2022 in Beverly Hills, Calif. (Photo by Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images) It also tries to direct what firms need to do to register with the SEC and requires the SEC to write new rules that are customized to govern crypto. That legislation is expected to pass through the House this fall, though lawmakers have been grappling with other priorities of late namely, a looming government shutdown, as well as the must-pass Farm Bill and National Defense Authorization Act. In any case, analysts dont expect the crypto legislation to go anywhere in the Senate. We do not see a path forward for this through the end of 2024. Democrats object to giving the CFTC authority over so much of the crypto universe as it has no experience with retail investor protections, said TD Cowen analyst Jaret Seiberg. "By contrast, crypto wants to diminish the role of the SEC and boost the power of the CFTC. But Armstrong says he thinks there's a reasonable set of places where new rules could land and that lawmakers tell him they are all attuned at a high level to the risks of not doing so. He hopes the House bill will converge with legislative efforts by Sens. Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), who have put forth sprawling, comprehensive legislation to regulate the crypto industry in the upper chamber. I'm OK with any of them, Armstrong told Yahoo Finance. I just want there to be clear rules because in the absence of that the SEC has just been on this path of regulation by enforcement or harassment, if you will, where every startup in the space gets a subpoena or a Wells notice and that's not sustainable, he added. Armstrong warned if Congress doesnt pass legislation, then the legal system will be forced to decide. Right now, the SEC has won zero of the last three court rulings. So the courts are repudiating the approach that they're taking, Armstrong said. Eventually, if this ends up in the Supreme Court, that's not going to be good for many of what these lawmakers want. Heads of smaller crypto firms were also part of the broader push on Capitol Hill, as they attempted to show lawmakers that the industry can help boost the economy. It's really important that everybody understands that blockchain technology is used across multiple different industries from supply chain, financial services, to retail, communications, and security, said Nina Blankenship, co-CEO of Crypto Tutors LLC, a Black- and minority-women-owned business based in Orlando, Fla., that offers Web3 and blockchain education. 'Fraud, manipulation, and scams' While Armstrong and crypto small business heads were on Capitol Hill, SEC Chair Gary Gensler testified Wednesday before the House Financial Services Committee, reiterating his view that the crypto industry is rife with fraud, manipulation, and scams. The American public is still getting hurt by the noncompliance in this field, Gensler said. Unfortunately ... we brought numerous cases in this field to try to protect the American public and be a cop on the beat with regard to so many of these schemes. But Coinbase and much of the crypto industry feel the SEC's approach to regulating crypto has become hostile. Everybody deserves equal treatment under the law, and the SEC cannot continue to punish crypto even if they wish that it was something else, he said. Republicans hope to convince the public and even some of their colleagues that an impeachment inquiry into President Biden holds merit at their first hearing Thursday. The GOPs sprawling investigation seeks to establish that Hunter Biden engaged in unethical business practices by leveraging his family name and then connect any wrongdoing back to the president. Republican investigators with the House Oversight Committee have yet to connect that dot, nor have they found a smoking gun to back their most controversial claim that Biden accepted a bribe from a Ukrainian oligarch. Biden has furiously denied that allegation. By House Oversight Chairman James Comers (R-Ky.) admission, the hearing is not expected to cover new ground. Instead, the panel is set to dig into Hunter Bidens finances and tax payments as they take testimony from two tax experts issues already investigated by a prosecutor held over from the Trump administration who was recently elevated to a special counsel. Oversights partner in the investigation, the House Ways and Means Committee, dumped some 700 pages of new documents related to their probe Wednesday a trove the panel will likely rely on despite the short window given to the public to review them. That panels chairman, Rep. Jason Smith (R-Mo.) will be waived on for Thursdays hearing. Democrats have dismissed the investigation as a rehash of a conspiracy theory pushed by Rudy Giuliani ahead of former President Trumps first impeachment. The FBI never corroborated an unverified tip from a trusted source who relayed that a Ukrainian oligarch had bragged about paying off both Bidens. Chairman Comers whole sham impeachment drive is based on a lie crafted and peddled by Trump and Rudy Giuliani that has been repeatedly debunked by multiple credible sources, Rep. Jamie Raskin (Md.), the ranking Democrat on Oversight, said in a statement, adding that Giulianis right-hand man, Lev Parnas, now concedes there is nothing to the Burisma conspiracy theory. In a series of three memos, House Oversight Republicans have claimed the Bidens brought in $20 million from foreign interests routed through various shell companies. But a Washington Post fact check on those claims criticized Comer for overhyping those figures when just about $7 million flowed to Hunter Biden while the rest largely went to associates. It also noted all but one company examined were not shell companies as Comer claimed, but companies that had legitimate business interests. The hearing comes amid deep GOP divisions over how to stave off a government shutdown set to begin Sunday and even whether to pursue an impeachment. Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) ignited the effort without taking a vote, raising questions about whether he would be able to get enough support from his conference. Some Republicans have expressed reservations about backing such an effort, musing publicly and privately there may not be enough evidence to justify it. Without doubt, Hunter Bidens shady business deals undermined Americas image and our anti-corruption goals, and his conduct was thoroughly reprehensible, Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colo.) said in a recent Washington Post op-ed. Whats missing, despite years of investigation, is the smoking gun that connects Joe Biden to his neer-do-well sons corruption. Whats missing, despite years of investigation, is the smoking gun that connects Joe Biden to his neer-do-well sons corruption. Comer has at times expressed frustration over communicating the complexities of the financial transactions. Well, I think that some of you need to have a refresher course on the existing evidence, so well probably rehash some of that if for no other purpose to help educate the Washington, D.C., press corps, he said last week. Republicans have focused on what they called Biden family business dealings, mapping out money moving in and out of accounts associated with Hunter Biden as well as a few other family members. Their review of different bank accounts of various businesses associated with Hunter Biden found that he earned money from doing business in Romania, China, Kazakhstan and Ukraine including $2.6 million from Burisma. The rest of the funds from the Ukrainian energy company went to Biden business associate Devon Archer. But the Washington Post fact check calls into question the committees claims about payments from Russia, specifically $3.5 million from billionaire Elena Baturina. The Post found $2.75 million of that sum, which Republicans identify as going to Hunter Biden, actually went to Archer for a real estate deal the presidents son was unconnected to. Hunter Biden has dismissed GOP musings about his business ventures, calling himself a private citizen with every right to pursue his own business endeavors in an earlier statement through his legal team. And Democrats are quick to point out that Comers team has yet to connect any of that money to President Biden. 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, Rep. Daniel Goldman (D-N.Y.) said earlier this month. In their third memo, Republicans also argue that payments to President Bidens family members can be an indirect way of corruptly influencing a foreign official, arguing they dont need to show any direct flow of money to President Biden. But the GOP has also failed to indicate what policy shifts, if any, resulted from Hunter Bidens work abroad or any government actions taken to benefit his businesses. Oversight has instead pointed to photos showing President Biden meeting with associates of his son over dinner, as well as Hunter Biden taking calls with his father on speaker phone when otherwise taking business meetings. Raskin echoed a sentiment expressed by many Democrats frustrated that the investigations are moving full steam ahead even as Congress barrels towards a shutdown. Its hard to grasp the complete derangement of this moment. Three days before theyre set to shut down the United States government, Republicans launch a baseless impeachment drive against President Biden. No one can figure out the logic of either course of action. Why shut down the U.S. government, something no enemy nation has ever succeeded in doing? he said. Why impeach a president who has committed no high crimes and misdemeanors, no low crimes and misdemeanors, and no crimes at all? For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Correction: Roger Stone was reportedly a campaign adviser to Omar Navarro. A previous version of this article contained incorrect information. A four-time candidate for Congress has been charged with misusing campaign funding, including transferring the cash back to his personal accounts via his friends and family. Omar Navarro, 34, was charged with 43 counts related to the mishandling of campaign funds, including one count of conspiracy, 13 counts of wire fraud, 26 counts of falsification of records and three counts of the prohibited use of campaign funds, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office in the Central District of California. Navarro, a Republican, has run for the House seat in Californias 43rd congressional district in the past four election cycles to challenge Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.). He has previously faced legal troubles, and was arrested in 2019 on stalking charges. Longtime ally of former President Trump and political consultant Roger Stone was also reportedly his campaign adviser at one time, according to The Los Angeles Times. Now, a grand jury indictment has alleged that Navarro illegally funneled cash to himself multiple times between September 2017 through July 2020. He allegedly conspired with two other people to do so, including his mother Dora Asghari, who he is accused of sending checks to using campaign funds during this time before the money was transferred back to himself for personal use. The indictment accuses Navarro of using campaign funds for personal expenses, including trips to Las Vegas and wine country and two criminal defense attorneys, and falsely recording them as campaign expenses to the Federal Elections Commission. Ultimately, Navarro allegedly deposited more than $100,000 into his personal accounts between January 2018 and July 2020. He had no other income at the time and frequently deposited checks from his mother and his friend, who were also charged in the indictment, according to the U.S. attorneys office. If convicted, Navarro could face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for the conspiracy count and up to 20 years in federal prison for each count of wire fraud. In addition, he could face up to 20 years for each falsification of records count and up to five years in prison for each count of prohibited use of campaign contributions, the U.S. attorneys office noted. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The suspect in a strange road rage incident on a Florida bridge, which snarled traffic on the span connecting Tampa and St. Petersburg, was identified Thursday as a former federal prosecutor. Patrick Douglas Scruggs, whose 39th birthday was Thursday, was arrested and accused of armed burglary, aggravated assault and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. The alleged meltdown happened on the Howard Frankland Bridge on Tuesday morning, a Florida Highway Patrol representative said. Scruggs was an assistant U.S. attorney in the criminal division in Tampa from Sept. 9, 2012, to April 21 this year, a U.S. attorney's office spokesperson said. Scruggs no longer works for the Justice Department, and the representative declined to reveal any additional details about him. The incident started when a 35-year-old Tampa man called "Driver 1" was found slumped over in his car in a southbound lane of the Howard Frankland Bridge a little before 9:30 a.m. ET Tuesday, the Highway Patrol said. A second car, driven by Ahmed Gahaf, 40, of Tampa, stopped in front of Driver 1 to see whether he was OK. That's when Driver 1 "awoke and drove forward, colliding with Driver 2's vehicle," the Highway Patrol said. "Driver 1 reversed and attempted to drive around Driver 2's (Gahaf's) vehicle" and then "collided with Driver 3's vehicle which was passing the incident," it said. Driver 3 was Scruggs, who "stopped, exited his vehicle, approached Driver 1, broke out a side window and began to stab Driver 1 multiple times with a pocket knife," the Highway Patrol said. When Gahaf and his wife tried to intervene, Scruggs allegedly "diverted his attention" to them and tried to stab them, officials said. The pair "fled before being harmed," and a passing St. Petersburg police officer came upon the brouhaha and arrested Scruggs, the Highway Patrol said. "It surprised me why he did this," Gahaf said. "He said: 'You with him? You two, you want to kill me?' That's when he came at me with the knife." Florida Highway Patrol troopers respond to a crash involving three sedans along the southbound lanes of I-275 on the Howard Frankland Bridge. (Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles) The incident closed parts of the bridge for nearly three hours, authorities said. Gahaf said he stopped for two reasons to see whether he could help Driver 1 and to warn oncoming cars to go around the vehicle. "I wanted to help the guy and help the other people, too. It could have been a big accident," Gahaf said in an interview Thursday. "It's four lanes, and everyone is speeding 80 mph. There could have been a big accident." Gahaf, who owns a restaurant, said that despite the double danger he faced in the initial stop and the alleged attempt to stab him, he wouldn't hesitate to stop in the middle of the road again. "I'm going to do this every time, no question," he said. "We have to help people when we see something, especially in the middle of the highway. Someone stuck in the middle of the road, he needs our help, no question." Scruggs was booked and released on a $65,000 bond, Pinellas County Jail records showed. "He has no prior criminal history. This is a totally isolated incident," his attorney John Nohlgren said. "He's got tons of law enforcement and prosecutors who are reaching out and saying, 'This is not the Patrick Scruggs we know; something must have happened.' That's been the reaction so far. The portrayal that he's some guy who jumps out and starts stabbing a person is either not what happened but is also not [who] my client [is], not his personality." It still wasn't clear Thursday why Driver 1 was initially unresponsive, setting off Tuesday's strange chain of events, a Highway Patrol representative said. The man's hands appeared to be shaking when he regained consciousness, Gahaf said. Call for building Xiamen-Kinmen bridge heard: mainland spokesperson Xinhua) 11:21, September 28, 2023 BEIJING, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese mainland is committed to working with all walks of life in Kinmen to facilitate a plan to link Xiamen and Kinmen with a bridge, a mainland spokesperson said Wednesday. "We have heard the voices of the Kinmen residents expressing their desire for the Xiamen-Kinmen bridge," Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, told a press conference. It is reported that within two weeks of soliciting public opinion in Kinmen regarding the construction of the Xiamen-Kinmen bridge, 734 signed petitions were received in favor of the project. Over the years, the mainland has rolled out measures to improve the well-being of people in Kinmen, Zhu said, noting that the mainland started to supply water to Kinmen in 2018 and the preliminary technical preparations for sending electricity and gas to Kinmen as well as for the construction of the bridge had been basically completed. The spokesperson highlighted that a recent circular on establishing a demonstration zone for integrated development across the Taiwan Strait has pledged efforts to explore a model for Xiamen-Kinmen joint infrastructure development. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Last week, as the updated Covid vaccines rolled out to pharmacies across the U.S., some people eager to get their doses were met with unexpected insurance issues even though the shots are supposed to be covered. On Wednesday, the Department of Health and Human Services said the issue has been "largely, if not completely," resolved. HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra met earlier in the day with leading insurance companies, including CVS Health, UnitedHealth Group, Anthem and Cigna, to review the progress of the Biden administrations fall Covid vaccination campaign, agency spokesperson Jeff Nesbit said in an email. The insurance companies made it clear that they are "fully covering the new vaccine shots," according to a rundown of the meeting shared by HHS. They described the problem of some people being denied coverage as "systemic technical issues." One insurer, Aetna, said that going forward it would treat the new shot as a seasonal vaccination, meaning members can get Covid vaccinations wherever they get their annual flu shots. The Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention signed off on the updated Covid vaccines this month. For the first time since the first vaccines became available, the government is not covering the cost of the shots. Federal health officials had previously assured that the new shots would be provided at no cost for most people with insurance. However, reports quickly surfaced that some people were being told their insurance would not cover it. The insurance companies said they would continue to closely monitor reports of any "technical or coding barriers to vaccine coverage," according to a letter shared with NBC News from AHIP, the industry's trade group. More than 2 million people had gotten the updated vaccines as of Wednesday, HHS said. Follow NBC HEALTH on Twitter & Facebook. Seven Republican candidates took the stage Wednesday evening for the partys second presidential debate. There was one notable exception at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif.: Former President Donald Trump, who again skipped the debate. Trump also avoided last months debate in Milwaukee and continues to hold a dominating position in the GOP race. Read more on Yahoo News: Our live coverage has concluded. Check out Yahoo News for the latest on the race, and see the blog below for a recap and analysis of Wednesday night's debate. A second employee of a Kansas City, Kansas, auto parts store has been charged in the same incident in which the stores manager was accused of murder for the killing of a 23-year-old man suspected of shoplifting, authorities announced Wednesday. The Wyandotte County District Attorneys office has charged 23-year-old Royal Ford with one count of misdemeanor battery for allegedly stomping on the neck of a suspected accomplice, according to court documents. A summons has been issued for Ford to make his first court appearance on Oct. 17. The district attorney also has charged the suspected accomplice, 23-year-old Keysean Perkins, with misdemeanor theft and misdemeanor interference with a law enforcement officer. Perkins has been summoned to make his first appearance in court also on Oct. 17. The charges center around an alleged shoplifting incident on Sept. 19, in which employees of the the OReillys Auto Parts store at 4700 Parallell Parkway got into a physical confrontation with two men they suspected of stealing. Diamond Steen, one of the men who was accused of shoplifting, was killed in the confrontation. Carl R. Kemppainen, 39, the stores manager, is facing one count of second-degree murder in Wyandotte County District Court. Prosecutors allege he acted recklessly, though unintentionally, in killing Steen. In a statement last week, the company said it was deeply disturbed by the events, death and injuries that occurred at our store in Kansas City, Kansas. We are cooperating fully with the police investigation. The company wasnt immediately available to comment Wednesday on their policy regarding employee response to shoplifting. Two cans of car paint, sandpaper Steen and Perkins had allegedly stolen two cans of car paint and sandpaper worth $72.99 from the store, according newly available court documents. According to the documents, video captured Perkins entering the store and walk down one of the aisles. Kemppainen told detectives he was nearby and approached Perkins, who was looking at cans of car paint, and asked if he needed any help. Perkins told Kemppainen he was fine, according to court documents. Shortly thereafter, Steen is captured on video entering the store and going down the aisle towards Perkins and Kemppainen. Kemppainen told detectives he had received information that two unknown men in a white Ford Fusion had stolen items at another OReilly location a few days earlier. He allegedly told the detectives he believed the two men were the suspected shoplifters. Kemppainen told detectives he was watching Perkins for any possible shoplifting, but had to leave the area to help another employee, according to court documents. As he left, Kemppainen said he allegedly saw Perkins put a can of car paint in his pocket and grab a package of sandpaper. The video allegedly showed Steen and Perkins walk out of the aisle and head to the front door, bypassing the registers and front counter, according to court documents. Kemppainen ran in front of them and attempted to stop them inside the front door, however Steen and Perkins make it outside, according to the video. Kemppainen followed them into the parking lot and tried to prevent them from leaving. A witness said Kemppainen kept shutting the drivers side door of the car Steen was attempting to enter. He then yanked a key fob from a lanyard hanging around Steens neck and threw it across the parking lot, according to court documents. Kemppainen then allegedly placed Steen in a chokehold, according to court documents. About that time, the video captured Ford exiting the business and confronting Perkins on the passenger side of the car. The video showed Perkins attempting to calm the situation by taking a stolen paint can out of his front hoody pocket, according to court documents. He then allegedly dropped the can and approached Kemppainen to get him to release Steen. Ford allegedly pulled Perkins away and began to wrestle with him in an attempt to detain him, according to court documents. As they struggled, a third employee grabbed tape to bind Perkins. The video showed Perkins lying face down on the ground as the employee wrapped tape around his wrists. When Perkins attempted to raise his head, Ford allegedly stomped down on Perkins neck and upper back area, causing his face and chin to hit the ground, according to court documents. Perkins suffered a small laceration on his chin. When treated at the hospital, he received three stitches. When officers responded to the store, they found Steen and Perkins bound in tape, bungie cords and zip ties by the front door. Steen was not responsive. When officers checked on him, they found he did not have a pulse and he was not breathing. They asked an OReilly employee to cut the bindings that held his arms behind him. Officers requested emergency medical crews and began CPR. When emergency medical crews arrived, they declared Steen deceased. At a press conference earlier this month, District Attorney Mark Dupree said an autopsy confirmed Steen died of strangulation. He declined to provide further detail on the manner of the homicide other than to say Steens airway was completely stopped. Online court records did not list defense attorneys for Ford or Perkins as of Wednesday. The Stars Bill Lukitsch provided some information for this story. MOSCOW (Reuters) -Belarus on Thursday said a Polish helicopter had violated its airspace but Warsaw said none of its helicopters had crossed the border between the two countries. Tense relations between the neighbors have been further strained by Belarusian ally Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February last year. "Around 1520 (1220 GMT) the aircraft crossed the border of the Republic of Belarus, flew to a depth of up to 1.5 kilometres. At 1622, the helicopter repeatedly violated the state border, going 300 metres deep," the Ministry of Defence of Belarus said on its Telegram channel. Belarus, Russia's closest ally, said it had scrambled military aircraft in response. "The Operational Command unequivocally denies these reports," a spokesperson of the Operational Command of the Armed Forces of Poland told Reuters. "None of the Polish helicopters crossed the airspace of Belarus." Belarus' foreign ministry said it had summoned the Polish charge d'affaires, Marcin Wojciechowski, to protest. According to the ministry, Minsk has demanded Warsaw conduct "an objective investigation into the incident" and take measures to prevent such incidents in the future. (Writing by Maxim Rodionov; Additional reporting by Anna Koper in Warsaw; Editing by Hugh Lawson, Ron Popeski, Nick Zieminski and Daniel Wallis) Kansas City police were asking the public for help Wednesday to track down an SUV involved in a possible nighttime abduction in the West Blue Valley neighborhood. Police were searching for an unknown person, described as a female, leaving the 5800 block of East 15th Terrace in a dark-colored Hyundai SUV. She was with a male who police were also attempting to identify. We believe she is in danger, the department said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Wednesday afternoon. Officers were first called to the block around 8 p.m. Tuesday on a reported disturbance, officer Alayna Gonzalez said in a statement. Callers told police they heard a female screaming for help, Gonzalez said. Police obtained surveillance camera images showing the two leave the area in the Hyundai. Detectives were still working Wednesday to determine whether the female had been taken against her will, Gonzalez said. She said information leading to an identification of those seen in the photographs would help. No missing person reports had been made to KCPD fitting the description of the endangered female as of Wednesday afternoon, according to police. Police were asking anyone with information concerning the SUV or those pictured in the photographs to contact detectives at 816-413-3549 or call 911. Joe Biden and Donald Trump are painting two very different pictures in Michigan this week as they seek to win over autoworkers and other manufacturing workers across the Rust Belt ahead of 2024. The former president spoke on Tuesday evening in Clinton Township, a day after the incumbent president made history by appearing on a picket line alongside striking members of the United Autoworkers union. But Mr Trump is going after the union vote in a much different manner. Despite a Trump campaign official promising that the Republican former president would speak to current and former union members upon his arrival, the Mar-a-Lago mogul actually delivered remarks at a non-union plant, with his event reportedly hosted by the National Right to Work Foundation, according to Jacobin magazine. Theoretically, his audience could still be made up partially or fully with union autoworkers, but The Independent did not receive a response to an emailed request for clarification on that matter. Hours ahead of Mr Trumps address, counter-programming to the second GOP debate, the Biden campaign launched a new ad attacking the former president for not protecting the manufacturing sector in America. A narrator in the ad accuses Mr Trump of pass[ing] tax breaks for his rich friends while automakers shuttered their plants and Michigan lost manufacturing jobs. The ad hit TV screens on Wednesday, and is set to be shown on Fox Business Network ahead of the 9pm debate hosted by the network, according to CNN. Mr Trump and Mr Biden both face similar issues of voter trust in the Rust Belt. A discussion with voters attending Mr Trumps 2022 rally in Youngstown, Ohio revealed a deep persistent resentment towards corporatist politicians in both parties stemming from economic devastation weathered by the city and surrounding communities following the closure of General Motors Lordstown plant in 2019. Mr Trump, two years before GM finally shuttered the plant, urged workers and residents of the city, dont move. Dont sell your house at a campaign rally. Others blame Democrats who represented the district and state in Congress for the closure. Whether Mr Trump will embrace striking workers call for higher wages and better conditions is unclear. The likelihood of him embracing the union that is making those calls achievable is low. Republicans have struggled to respond to the outbreak of organised labour activity across America. Some, like Sen Tim Scott, have stuck to the partys typical pro-business line and called for mass firings to scare workers back into their jobs. Others, like Mr Trump, are embracing a populist message even if they have shyed away from endorsing the actual means and methods of organised labour. ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) Burkina Fasos military government said Wednesday its intelligence and security services had thwarted a coup attempt and were actively pursuing others believed involved in what it called a bid to throw our country into chaos. A junta statement said the coup attempt happened Tuesday without providing further details. Officers and other alleged actors involved in this attempt at destabilization have been arrested and others are actively sought, junta spokesman Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouedraogo said in the statement. Burkina Faso is one of a growing list of West African countries where the military has taken power, accusing the elected governments of failing to keep their promises. The current junta seized power in September 2022 by ousting the military regime of Lt. Col. Paul Henri Sandaogo Damiba about eight months after it staged a coup to remove democratically elected President Roch Marc Kabore. Capt. Ibrahim Traore was named as the transitional president. However, since its inception, the junta has struggled to end Burkina Fasos security challenges the very reason that it said prompted it to take over power in September 2022. Ouedraogo said an investigation into the attempted takeover was underway and that those behind it had sought to cast Burkina Faso "into chaos. The announcement came a day after protesters marched in Ouagadougou, the nation's capital, expressing support for the transitional government. The junta's statement praised citizens for their resolute and historic commitment to defending the Homeland and protecting it against all those who want to take us backwards into history." It also commended the patriotic action and the high sense of duty of the defense and security forces that thwarted the coup. The transitional government is running Burkina Faso under a constitution approved by a national assembly that included army officers, civil society groups and traditional and religious leaders. The junta has set a goal of conducting elections to return the country to democratic rule by July 2024. Burkina Faso has been ravaged by growing attacks by Muslim extremists linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group. The violence has killed thousands, displaced more than 2 million people and pushed tens of thousands to the brink of starvation. Since the country's first coup in January 2022, the number of people killed by Islamic extremists has nearly tripled compared with the 18 months before, according to a recent report by the Africa Center for Strategic Studies. Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call/Newscom On September 19, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo appeared before the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology to discuss the CHIPS and Science Act, which had been law for just over a year. The CHIPS Act apportioned as much as $76 billion in tax credits and subsidies for semiconductor manufacturers to build fabrication plants (known as "fabs") in the U.S. rather than overseas. Raimondo noted that her department controls $50 billion in CHIPS Act funding, including "$39 billion in semiconductor incentives and $11 billion in research and development." The $39 billion "will bring semiconductor manufacturing back to the United States," she said, "but a robust R&D ecosystem will keep it here." But within Raimondo's testimony, she revealed an uncomfortable tidbit: Companies begging for public dollars are being encouraged to double-dip. Rep. Max Miller (ROhio) asked Raimondo about the difficulties of filling certain job postings. While they both agreed on the need to focus on job training and schools, Miller noted that he preferred solutions that come from "the state and local level" rather than "more federal legislation that nobody needs, in my opinion." Raimondo responded, "As part of the incentive program, the CHIPS money we're putting out, we are requiring the applicant to come to us with money from the state, including work force. So, we're putting the burden on the company" to "find out what incentives" state and local governments are offering and "put it in the application" for CHIPS Act funds. The exchange, first reported by Pat Garofalo, director of state and local policy at the American Economic Liberties Project, in his Boondoggle newsletter, is illuminatingand wrong, depending on the interpretation. As Greg LeRoy, executive director of the subsidy watchdog group Good Jobs First, wrote in April, the CHIPS Act "does not require massive or matching subsidies from states or localities." While Commerce Department guidelines say that applying companies "must be offered a state or local government incentive," it recommends prioritizing those that are "capable of creating spillover benefits that improve regional economic resilience and support a robust semiconductor ecosystem, beyond assisting a single company." "Translation: states and localities should focus on making themselves 'sticky' for tech employers by investing in cost-effective public goods and services that generate the biggest payoffs," LeRoy wrote. "That's the opposite of risky 'megadeals' and a smart way to ensure the broadest possible community benefits." Perhaps, given her use of the term work force, this is what Raimondo meant. But as Garofalo pointed out, according to the Tax Foundation, at least 12 states have so far introduced or expanded semiconductor subsidy programs since the CHIPS Act's passage, seemingly to help companies qualify. And unlike the "spillover benefits" model that Commerce Department guidance recommended, the programs largely consist of ineffectual targeted incentives for individual companies. The post Companies Seeking CHIPS Act Subsidies Are Encouraged To Double-Dip appeared first on Reason.com. (Reuters) - Remnants of DNA have been discovered in fossilized remains dating to 6 million years ago of a sea turtle closely related to today's Kemp's ridley and olive ridley turtles, marking one of the rare times genetic material has been identified in such ancient fossils of a vertebrate, researchers said on Thursday. The researchers said some bone cells, called osteocytes, were exquisitely preserved in the fossil, which was excavated along Panama's Caribbean coast in 2015. The fossil is partial, with a relatively complete carapace - the turtle's shell - but not the rest of the skeleton. The turtle would have been about a foot (30 cm) long when alive, they said. In some of the osteocytes, the cell nuclei were preserved and reacted to a chemical solution that allowed the researchers to recognize the presence of remnants of DNA, the molecule that carries genetic information for an organism's development and functioning, said paleontologist Edwin Cadena, lead author of the study published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology. "I want to point out that we did not extract DNA, we only were able to recognize the presence of DNA traces in the nuclei," added Cadena, of Universidad del Rosario in Bogota and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. DNA is quite perishable, though in the right conditions it has been preserved in some ancient remains. Researchers last year reported the discovery of DNA from animals, plants and microbes dating to about 2 million years ago from sediment at Greenland's remote northernmost point. Cadena said the only older vertebrate fossils than the newly described turtle to have been found with similar DNA remnants were of two dinosaurs - Tyrannosaurus, which lived about 66 million years ago, and Brachylophosaurus, which lived about 78 million years ago. Cadena said DNA remnants also have been reported in insects dating to tens of millions of years ago. The turtle is from the same genus - Lepidochelys - as two of the world's seven living species of sea turtles - the Kemp's ridley, the world's smallest sea turtle, and the olive ridley, Cadena said. Kemp's ridley, with a triangular-shaped head and a slightly hooked beak, is primarily found in the Gulf of Mexico. The olive ridley, which closely resembles the Kemp's ridley, has a larger distribution, primarily found in the tropical regions of the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic oceans. The fossil represents the oldest-known member of Lepidochelys and helps to shed light on the poorly understood evolutionary history of this genus, the researchers said. They did not identify it by species because the remains were too incomplete, Cadena said. "Each fossil, each fossil site has specific conditions of preservation that in some cases could have favored preservation of original biomolecular remains such as proteins and DNA," Cadena said. "Maybe in the future and with more studies of this kind, we could be able at some point to sequence very small pieces of DNA and to infer things about their close relatives or involve that information in a broader molecular evolutionary study," Cadena added. (Reporting by Will Dunham in Washington; Additional reporting by Elida Moreno; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Republican Kari Lake, a former Arizona gubernatorial candidate who has echoed former President Donald Trump's false claims about fraud at the 2020 election, will announce a 2024 bid for the U.S. Senate, the Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday, further complicating a potential three-way race in the battleground state. Lake is set to launch her campaign challenging independent incumbent Senator Kyrsten Sinema on Oct. 10, she told the newspaper in an interview. Representatives for Lake could not immediately be reached for comment. Arizona, which Democrat Joe Biden narrowly won in the 2020 presidential race, could help tip the balance in the divided Senate. It is also one of six states that could swing either to Republicans or Democrats in presidential votes, potentially playing a decisive role as Biden seeks a second term in office. Lake has aligned herself with Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican presidential nomination. A former television news anchor, Lake lost her 2022 bid for governor but has refused to concede the race despite losing legal challenges. "We need to get a senator in there who is going to fight back and put America first," Lake told the Journal. Democrats currently hold the Senate 51-49, including Sinema and two other independents who caucus with them. Democratic U.S. Representative Ruben Gallego is also challenging Sinema, who left the Democratic Party in December and has not yet announced her re-election plans. Lake also faces Republican competition. Mark Lamb, sheriff for Arizona's Pinal County, is seeking the Republican nod, the Journal reported. Blake Masters, a far-right Republican who lost his 2022 challenge to Arizona's other U.S. senator, Democrat Mark Kelly, could also seek the nomination. It's unclear whether Lake could win support from Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, who has repeatedly drawn Trump's ire. Lake told the Journal she will be in Washington next week and hopes to meet with the Senate's top Republican, adding that she would back him as leader. Meanwhile, Biden will use a Thursday appearance in Arizona to warn of the threat U.S. democracy faces from far-right MAGA Republicans, referring to Trump's Make America Great Again slogan. Independent voters have also expressed concerns over Trump's election fraud claims and legal woes. (Writing by Susan Heavey; editing by Rami Ayyub and Alistair Bell) CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. Former President Donald Trump called for a revival of the economic nationalism that fueled his successful 2016 campaign in a visit here Wednesday aimed at distracting from the second Republican presidential primary debate. Trumps speech at a nonunion auto parts company was also geared toward blue-collar workers in the midst of a United Auto Workers strike. President Joe Biden made history Tuesday by joining a picket line outside Detroit, becoming the first sitting president to do so. Addressing an audience of more than 300 that included only a few of the striking workers, Trump ascribed the auto industrys problems to foreign trade deals he has long railed against pacts that Biden and even many Republicans have supported in the past. Trump also frequently complained that Biden and Democrats were pushing electric vehicles to please environmental activists at the expense of an industry still heavily centered on gas-powered cars. Joe Biden claims to be the most pro-union president in history, said Trump, who toured one of the companys factories before he began his remarks. His entire career has been an act of economic treason and union destruction. He added a direct appeal to UAW officials. Hopefully, he said, your leaders at the United Auto Workers will endorse Donald Trump. The crowd cheered loudly. Trumps appearance in this suburb north of Detroit is packed with meaning for a presidential campaign that could very well be a rematch of his 2020 race with Biden. By avoiding another debate with the GOP candidates looking to snatch the nomination from him, the front-running Trump is signaling he is more focused on a general election battle against Biden. Michigan is part of the swath of industrial and Midwest states that swung to Trump in 2016 and to Biden four years later. And, on a night his rivals tangled at former President Ronald Reagans namesake library, Trump was smack dab in Macomb County, legendary in the 1980s for its concentration of fed up blue-collar workers known as Reagan Democrats. Trump won Macomb County in 2016 and 2020, but Biden narrowed the margin a bit, losing by fewer than 40,000 votes. Hillary Clinton lost to Trump by about 48,000 votes four years earlier. The area is a major hub of auto industry activity, from car makers and parts suppliers to dealers. The audience Wednesday was a mix of workers from the host company, Drake Enterprises, and UAW members and area politicians. Many in the crowd waved Union Members for Trump signs printed in the University of Michigans blue and gold colors. The audience also included Trump fans with no deeply vested interest in the strike who were there more for Trump than for the autoworkers. J.R. Majewski, a Trump-backing Republican who last year lost a congressional race in Toledo, Ohio, made the 80-mile trip. Paul Sheridan, who came from nearby Bloomfield Hills to see Trump again, said: I mean, Ive seen him speak in person, two or three times.And hes always very good. And he speaks the truth. Hes funny. And so its always great to see him in person. But hardly any striking workers were on hand. There are a few strikers here, yes, said Brian Pannebecker, a former local autoworker who organizes an Auto Workers for Trump Facebook page and helped shore up attendees for the event. I dont know where theyre at. But there are several a handful. One of the striking UAW members on hand, Scott Malefant, concurred. I havent seen anybody yet, Malefant, wearing a Make America Great Again hat, said as he waited for Trump to arrive. Im sure there might be a few. The event came off like a Trump rally in miniature, far smaller than the arena blowouts he was known for in his first two campaigns but with the same festive atmosphere a food truck, the usual campaign playlist blaring over the speakers. Trump frequently went off on tangents unrelated to the labor dispute, delighting fans who cheered for him wildly and booed at mentions of Bidens name. When he hit on the strike and the auto industry, Trump talked up the America First themes familiar to his previous runs. And while he said he has nothing against electric vehicles, he repeatedly asserted that Bidens push to make more of them would hamstring the U.S. industry. The things that you make in Michigan, they dont need any of it, Trump said of electric car manufacturers. Trump also held himself up as a more reliable champion for autoworkers and the industry at large, at times sounding like the president who in 2017 told supporters in Youngstown, Ohio, not to sell their homes, because manufacturing was coming back on his watch. Two years later, General Motors closed a plant in nearby Lordstown. Plants have also closed in Warren, Michigan, and Baltimore. The number of auto manufacturing jobs held relatively even during Trumps administration, adding about 35,000 jobs from January 2017 to February 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Its obvious why Donald Trump is not at the Reagan Library tonight hes leading the Republican primary field by 40 points, said Rich Luchette, a Democratic strategist. But from a general election standpoint, Trumps speech at a nonunion shop is a mistake. It will no doubt remind voters of Trumps abysmal record on labor issues. Trump packed the National Labor Relations Board with anti-union appointees. Trump failed to bring back auto manufacturing jobs. Large throngs of Trump supporters and protesters marched near Drake before Trump arrived, waving signs and chanting. American Bridge 21st Century, a progressive super PAC, paid for a plane to circle the area with a banner reading TRUMP SOLD US OUT. Bidens re-election campaign, meanwhile, promoted a new cable TV and digital ad Wednesday aimed at Michigan voters, specifically in Detroit, Grand Rapids and Lansing. He says he stands with autoworkers, a narrator says of Trump. But as president, Donald Trump passed tax breaks for his rich friends, while automakers shuttered their plants and Michigan lost manufacturing jobs. Biden, the ad asserts, doesnt just talk; he delivers. Several Trump backers in the crowd Wednesday acknowledged that Bidens visit to the picket line Tuesday was a smart move. Im not a big fan of him, Malefant said. But, you know, any support we can get, well take it. Asked whether Trump should have joined a picket line, Malefant countered that he wouldnt want to see the guy get booed or anything. I think theres always going to be a warmer welcome for Democrats when it comes to the unions, Malefant added. I mean, a lot of people would boo Biden, but its not a popular thing with unions, so we kind of keep our mouths shut. Pannebecker, the organizer of the Facebook group, said Biden should not take sides in the dispute. I dont think the president of the United States should be sticking his nose into contract negotiations between businesses, companies and workers, he said. President Trumps here today to talk about what he accomplished during his first term and what he hopes to accomplish during his second term. The French ambassador to Niger, Sylvain Itte, has returned to Paris, the French Foreign Ministry told CNN on Wednesday. Our ambassador to Niger returned to Paris today, as decided by the President of the Republic on Sunday, the ministry said. According to the ministry, French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna received Itte to thank him for his teams service in difficult conditions. French President Emmanuel Macron said on Sunday that France had decided to bring back Itte and several other diplomats from Niger. After their July coup, the Niger military junta ordered Itte to leave the country, and later revoked his visa. The ambassador remained in place following instructions from the French government, with French authorities saying that they do not recognize the juntas authority. Macron said earlier this month that the ambassador was literally being held hostage at the French embassy, and that food was prevented from being delivered to the embassy in Niamey, the countrys capital. Relations between the two countries have soured since the coup. Ittes exit from Niger follows another decision by France to end its military presence in the West African nation by the end of this year. Around 1,500 French troops are stationed in Niger, many of whom are there to assist with counterterrorism missions. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com MASSAPEQUA PARK, N.Y. (AP) A high school band director who died when a bus crashed while carrying students from New York to a band camp in Pennsylvania last week was remembered Thursday as a dedicated teacher with a zest for life. Gina Pellettiere, who led Farmingdale High Schools marching band for more than a decade, wasnt just a good teacher, she was a great teacher, Rita Padden, the school's former fine arts director, told mourners at Pellettiere's funeral in Massapequa Park on Long Island. You hear from parents all the time: Ms. P was the reason my son loved trumpet or band. Pellettiere, 43, and retired teacher Beatrice Ferrari, 77, were killed on Sept. 21 when the charter bus they were riding in veered off a highway and crashed down an embankment on Interstate 84 in the town of Wawayanda, northwest of New York City. Dozens of students were injured in the crash; officials said four remained hospitalized as of late Wednesday. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the cause of the crash. Newsday reports that hundreds of students, parents, co-workers and community members attended Pellettiere's funeral Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church. Monsignor Jim Lisante said Pellettiere was here to leave the world better than she found it. Lisante asked, "Did Gina know she would live 43 years? Of course not, but she packed a lot into those years. Padden said Pellettiere lived life to the fullest. Pellettiere's survivors include her parents and the 2-year-old son she was raising as a single mother. The funeral for Ferrari, a retired social studies teacher who was serving as a chaperone on the band trip, took place Wednesday in Farmingdale and drew hundreds of mourners as well. COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP) Sri Lanka has so far failed to make enough progress in boosting tax collection and other economic reforms for the International Monetary Fund to release a second tranche of $330 million in the country's $2.9 billion bailout from bankruptcy, the IMF said. An IMF team led by Peter Breuer and Katsiaryna Svirydzenka concluded a visit to the island Tuesday and said in a statement that discussions would continue an agreement on how to keep up the momentum of reforms, and to unlock the second installment of funding that was due at the end of this month. Despite early signs of stabilization, full economic recovery is not yet assured, the statement said, adding that the countrys accumulation of reserves has slowed due to lower-than-projected gains in the collection of taxes. To increase revenues and signal better governance, it is important to strengthen tax administration, remove tax exemptions, and actively eliminate tax evasion, the statement said. Sri Lanka plunged into its worst economic crisis last year, suffering severe shortages and drawing strident protests that led to the ouster of then-President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. It declared bankruptcy in April 2022 with more than $83 billion in debt more than half of it to foreign creditors. The IMF agreed in March of this year to a $2.9 billion bailout package as Sri Lanka negotiates with its creditors to restructure the debt, aiming to reduce it by $17 billion. It released an initial $330 million in funding for Sri Lanka shortly after reaching that agreement. Over the past year, Sri Lankas severe shortages of essentials like food, fuel and medicine have largely abated, and authorities have restored a continuous power supply. But there has been growing public dissatisfaction with the government's efforts to increase revenue collection by raising electricity bills and imposing heavy new income taxes on professionals and businesses. Still, those tax collection efforts have fallen short of levels that that IMF would like to see. Without more revenue gains, the government's ability to provide essential public services will further erode, the IMF said in its statement. W.A. Wijewardena, an economic analyst and former deputy governor of Sri Lanka's central bank, said this week's failure to reach an agreement with the IMF cannot yet be called a setback for the government, but that it will be difficult for it to raise more revenue while looking for additional ways to cut expenditures. Many professionals in Sri Lanka are demanding a reduction in income taxes, and some have left the country over the issue. Theres this absurd notion that friendships have to last forever: Meghan Markle and Jessica Mulroney (Getty/Shutterstock/iStock) Hows your detachment game? It might not be a question youve considered much, but if youre someone who hoards your belongings, or clings onto flimsy items beyond repair, chances are its something you should urgently address. But this specific kind of detachment isnt related to, say, holding onto one too many old birthday cards. Rather, its about friends. Recently used by Meghan Markles former BFF Jessica Mulroney, the phrase featured in a meme she posted on Instagram, which read: As loving as I am, my detachment game is strong too. The post set tails wagging among Markles fans and her haters, with both factions speculating it was in reference to the duos close friendship, which was said to have fallen apart after Mulroney found herself embroiled in a Black Lives Matter row. In 2020, Mulroney a stylist engaged in a social media argument with a Black influencer, Sasha Exeter. After the two disagreed over one of Exeters Instagram posts supporting the Black Lives Matter movement, Exeter shared an 11-minute video on Instagram in which she claimed Mulroney took offence to a very generic call to action, resulting in a series of messages that left her paralysed with fear. Mulroney later issued a public apology in which she appeared to reference her friendship with Markle. As I told you privately, I have lived a very public and personal experience with my closest friend where race was front and centre, she wrote. It was deeply educational. I learned a lot from that. I promise to continue to learn and listen on how I can use my privilege to elevate and support Black voices. Despite being firm friends with Markle going back to her time as an actor in Canada, and long before she met the Duke of Sussex, Mulroney and Markle have not been seen together since the formers BLM controversy. Nonetheless, having good detachment game with friends meaning being able to distance yourself from relationships that are no longer serving you is a noble skill, and its one that has been increasingly spoken about among those writing and thinking about friendship. I think that we all need to practise getting better at friendship endings in order to destigmatise the idea of it, says Elizabeth Day, host of the How to Fail podcast and author of the Sunday Times bestselling book, Friendaholic: Confessions of a Friendship Addict. A friendship is never a failure simply because it ends. Theres this absurd notion that friendships have to last forever even if the only reason the friendship exists in the first place is a haphazard circumstance and that if they dont, then we have somehow failed or we are somehow bad friends. In fact, as Day advocates in her book, by getting better at detaching from friendships that no longer suit us, we start to exhibit a greater deal of self-respect that not only boosts our own lives but improves our other friendships. But all this is easier said than done, particularly if youve never detached from a long-term friendship before. For starters, how do you even recognise when its time to do it? Often it boils down to space: not having been given room to grow and change within the friendship, explains Claire Cohen, author of BFF?: The Truth about Female Friendship. Old friends can sometimes keep us in boxes and want us to remain the same as we always have been; thats just not realistic and can lead to misunderstandings and a feeling of claustrophobia. Part of the problem with friendship break-ups is that, as a society, we havent spent a lot of time thinking about them Elizabeth Day If you dont recognise this soon enough, thats when a friendship can start to turn toxic. As for how to know if this is the case, Cohen suggests asking yourself how you feel whenever you see that friend. Are you always emotionally drained by their company? Does everything have to be on their terms? Do they put you down or make you feel unable to share positive news? It can be hard to admit that these things are part of a long-term friendship our shared histories can cover many cracks but if youre nodding your head to several of these things, it might be worth having a conversation with your friend. There may be other signs too, like clear violations and betrayals of your trust. But the more tacit signs are harder to spot, particularly if youve become accustomed to them over time. If you dont feel like you can be yourself around them, or find yourself cancelling on them repeatedly and feeling too busy to text them back, that might be a sign its time to move away, too, adds psychologist Dr Madeleine Mason Roantree. That said, referring to this as detachment game might not be the healthiest approach either. It is not a clinical term, but I am guessing it refers to the position a person adopts where they attempt to be emotionally detached from a situation or person, adds Dr Roantree. Game implies some sort of control or power dynamic. This sounds laborious and tiring. Instead, its best simply to think of it in terms described by Day: moving away from friendships as an act of practicing self-respect; making better choices that reflect who you authentically are. A more appropriate phrase that is sometimes used is a friendship break-up. Jessica Mulroney (centre) attends Meghan and Harrys wedding at Windsor Castle in 2018 (Getty) Part of the problem with friendship break-ups is that, as a society, we havent spent a lot of time thinking about them, explains Day. Were all aware of how a romantic break-up goes and the vocabulary we can reach for and, in fact, romantic break-ups are very much accepted as part of normal character evolution and working out what we want in the long term. There isnt the same language of ending for friendships, which leads to fear. As a result, we often end up saying things we dont mean, or acting out as a result of guilt or resentment. In some cases, we might even ghost a friend, which is never going to benefit either of you. So, how do you go about doing it? Ask yourself how you would want to be treated on the receiving end of a friendship break-up, suggests Day. This could take the form of a real-life conversation, a phone call, or even a text. In some cases, things might have gone beyond the point of even needing to speak at all. Ive now learnt that its far better to lead with loving clarity (a boundary doesnt have to be cruel) and to send a text saying something like, Im sorry I havent been in touch as much as usual. Im dealing with some things in my own life which means I cant be the friend you need right now but I think of you with love and wish you nothing but the best, suggests Day. What if you find yourself on the receiving end of someone elses detachment and the feeling isnt entirely mutual? Well, as it transpires, the same advice could apply. If a friend has essentially dumped you, without giving you the opportunity to discuss the problem or respond, the only thing you can do is practice detachment yourself, says Cohen. If a friend has essentially dumped you, without giving you the opportunity to discuss the problem or respond, the only thing you can do is practice detachment yourself, says author Claire Cohen (iStock) One of the things I recommend doing is to take back control of what might feel like an uncontrollable situation that might mean writing a letter to them that you never send, or saying what you wish you could tell them out loud so youre able to release your feelings and draw a line under the friendship, accepting that its over. Most importantly, though, show yourself kindness and compassion, particularly if you find yourself ruminating over all of the reasons why someone might have detached from you. It can be hard to break out of a cycle of blame, adds Cohen. But to detach, you need to accept that the friendship clearly wasnt what you thought and that if they werent able to communicate honestly with you about ending it, youre best off moving on to new friends. Chinese firms are playing an increasingly critical role in supporting Russias military capabilities in Ukraine, including by exporting goods that are ending up on the battlefield, new analysis by CNBC shows. Russian customs data filed as recently as August point to the continued importation of drones, helmets, vests and radios from China, providing a lifeline for President Vladimir Putins over 18-month war of attrition, and offering a lucrative avenue for Chinese companies. At the same time, Chinese goods of less widely documented Chinese exports that are ostensibly for civilian use, including vehicles, construction equipment and synthetic materials, are providing direct and indirect support to Russias war efforts, analysts say. I think theres no question that the Chinese authorities are aware of the trade flows, Mark Cancian, senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington-based think tank, said. Theyre large enough that they could not continue without the acquiescence of the Chinese government. The defense ministries of China and Russia did not respond to CNBCs request for comment on the trade flows. This trade is happening despite insistence from Beijing that its trade with Moscow constitutes normal economic cooperation and that it targets no third party. Last Wednesday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi confirmed Chinas continued business cooperation with Russia ahead of a planned meeting between Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping in October. Qingdao Port Economy (Future Publishing via Getty Images file ) The comments follow the release in July of a U.S. intelligence report stating that China has also become an increasingly important buttress for Russia in its war effort, probably supplying Moscow with key technology and dual-use equipment used in Ukraine. Examples of goods supplied included navigation equipment, jamming technology and fighter jet parts, it said. Indeed, Kyiv has reported that its forces are increasingly finding Chinese components in weapons used by Russias military since April the same month that Putin and Li Shangfu, the Chinese defense minister at the time, reiterated their countries no limits partnership. Ukraines Defense Ministry and the general staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the battlefield findings. Ballooning business ties According to the United Nations Comtrade database, which aggregates global trade statistics, in 2022 total trade between Russia and China hit a record high of $190 billion in 2022, up 30% from a year earlier. This year it is set to eclipse that figure, with total trade hitting $134 billion in the first seven months of 2023. China now accounts for around half (45% to 50%) of Russias imports, up from one-quarter before the war, according to estimates from the Bank of Finlands Institute for Emerging Economies. That includes trade of so-called dual-use items and technologies goods with both civilian and military applications, such as drones and microchips. In 2022, China sold more than $500 million worth of semiconductors to Russia, up from $200 million in 2021. Meanwhile, China sold more than $12 million worth of drones to Russia in the year to this March. An analysis of Russian declarations and certificates of conformity filed to the Federal Service for Accreditation a prerequisite for the import and sale of goods in the country showed the trade of such goods between Russian and Chinese companies from the beginning of Moscows full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 to the present. Such declarations are filed by the buyer rather than the maker of the goods. Drones produced by Chinese multinational SZ DJI Technology were registered in Russia in unspecified volumes on various occasions from September 2022 to January with imports stemming both directly from the company and indirectly from Chinese exporters, including Shenzhen-based Autel Robotics and Iflight Technology translated filings show. DJI Drones at SZ DJI Technology Co. Headquarters As Company Said To Be Willing to Share Drones' Data With Chinese Government (Qilai Shen / Bloomberg via Getty Images file ) That is despite DJI issuing a statement on its website in April saying that it had voluntarily suspended all sales to and business in both Russia and Ukraine as of April 26, 2022 and contractually forbid any sales by dealers to either country and for combat use. When contacted, a DJI spokesperson said: We take regulatory compliance very seriously, and we have taken all steps in our control to emphasize that our products should not be used in combat to cause harm or be modified to be turned into weapons. One of the importers of the drones, Moscow-based Nebesnaya Mekhanika, which roughly translates as Heavenly Mechanics and which, before the war, was DJIs official distributor in Russia, reported its shipment in September 2022, the documents showed. Another importer, Moscow-based Vodukh, also registered an unspecified number of lithium ion and lithium polymer batteries and an unknown number of battery stations directly from DJI in November 2022 and this July, according to the records. Such items can be used to power goods ranging from small electronic devices to electric vehicles. A third, Rostov-on-Don-registered Pozitron, additionally imported more than 54,000 helmets either construction or military, according to the vague wording of the filing from the Chinese suppliers Liaoning B&R Technology and Beijing KRnatural International Trade Co. in late 2022. Defense analyst Cancian said it was apparent that such goods have been a critical facet of Russias military arsenal. They (Russia) have been firing, for example, artillery at the rate of 10,000 to even 20,000 rounds a day. To keep up that level of expenditure, they need to get some help from the outside, he said. They also started running out of cruise missiles. Their stocks were pretty much exhausted within the first six months or so, so theyve been able to manufacture additional cruise missiles with components provided by the Chinese, he added. Helmets and vests were also procured in batches of 100,000 each in November 2022 from the Shanghai-headquartered Deekon Industry Co., a manufacturer of military products and police equipment, by Moscow-based Legittelecom, documents showed. Legittelecom, which, according to its website, provides consulting services on permits for the import, export and sale of radio electronics and high-frequency devices, also imported an unknown number of portable radios, or walkie-talkies, from the wireless communications company Hong Kong Retekess in March. It was not clear from the documents if Legittelecom was the end user of the products, or to whom it was supplying the goods, though Chinese-made radios have been recovered from Ukraines battlefield. The companies did not respond to a request for comment on the transactions. However, analysts said the irregular import patterns suggest there is opportunism among businesses on both sides as they seek to take advantage of Moscows military needs. What we are seeing is that Chinese companies are selling to Russia what they maybe cant sell in China or the West at a higher price, said Antonia Hmaidi, an analyst at the Berlin-based Mercator Institute for China Studies, who has been studying Chinese dual-use exports to Russia since the start of the war. Its not the big exporters in China exporting this. Instead, its these small companies, Hmaidi said, noting that the implications of Western sanctions targeting such companies would be minimal. The companies, they dont really have a lot of inherent value, which makes it quite easy to just open another one. Indeed, one company, Silva, was registered in the remote eastern Siberian region of Buryatia in September 2022, and submitted import filings for 100,000 helmets from Shanghai H-Win New Material in March. More recently, in August, it filed for an unspecified number of radio telemetry systems, which can be used for tracking drones, from Hubei Jingzhou Mayatech Intelligent Technology. Hmaidi cited another example of a Hong Kong company, established in 2020, which used to supply North Korea and has now added Russia to its books. Pyongyang, for its part, has been strengthening ties with Moscow, with the countries leaders meeting in Russias far eastern Amur region earlier this month amid Western suspicions that North Korea may be readying to provide Russia with war materiel. CNBC contacted or attempted to contact all of the companies mentioned and received no response. A Russian military radio produced by Chinese manufacturer Baofeng is displayed during an open-air exhibition of destroyed Russian military equipment and tactical gear (Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images file ) Underappreciated trade flows As well as goods with overt military applications, Russia has also increased imports of Chinese goods with potential direct and indirect war implications, according to analysts. Chinese shipments to Russia of Aramid fiber, for instance, a class of heat-resistant synthetic fibers whose applications range from bicycle tires to bulletproof vests, rose more than 350% in dollar value terms in 2022 versus 2021, according to data compiled for CNBC by ImportGenius, a customs data aggregator. This January and February alone, imports were close to 50% of 2022s full-year total. Meanwhile, construction equipment has played an underappreciated but significant role in Chinas contribution to Russias war efforts, having helped bolster its defenses against Ukraines counteroffensive, said Joseph Webster, senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, a Washington-based think tank. Excavators and front-end shovel loaders are one of the most significant and frankly underappreciated aspects of Chinas engagement with the war in Ukraine, said Webster, who has studied the surge in such exports. There was a massive increase in trench-digging equipment to Russia at a time when the Russian military forces were digging trenches. And thats almost certainly not a coincidence, he added. Russian imports of Chinese earth-moving front-end shovel loaders were almost two times higher, and imports of excavators more than three times higher, in the first seven months of 2023 than during the same period a year prior, trade data showed. Imports of Chinese heavy-duty trucks more broadly were up 11 times in value terms from this January to May compared to the same period in 2021, with some identified on the battlefield and others used indirectly. In June, a video featuring the head of Russias Chechen Republic, Ramzan Kadyrov, was shared on his official Telegram social media account. In it, he showcases various armored vehicles, including armored personnel carriers that appear to be Chinese Tiger vehicles, that he said were being deployed to Russias so-called special military operation in Ukraine. Even if the Chinese exports arent directly on the front lines, theyre still providing important economic assistance to Russia, said Webster, suggesting that the added fleets could have significant implications in allowing Moscow to balance manufacturing output essential to both its civilian and military populations. Because Chinese truck exports have supplied the Russian civilian sector with trucks, Kamaz might be able to repurpose production lines for armored vehicles, Webster said of Russias sanctioned, state-owned truck manufacturer. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinas President Xi Jinping shake hands after delivering a joint statement following their talks at the Kremlin in Moscow (Mikhail Tereshchenko / SPUTNIK/AFP via Getty Images file ) Chinese government collusion? The meta-analysis findings add to the growing list of Chinese goods and companies reported to be supplying Russias military, including state-owned enterprises. The July U.S. intelligence report cited state-owned China Taly Aviation Technologies and China Poly Technologies among the companies found to be providing Kremlin-linked defense companies with parts, including for Mi-system helicopters found on the front lines. When asked for comment on the intelligence report and the trade of dual-use goods, Chinas commerce ministry referred CNBC to its response in May to a similar question, in which it said its trading relationship with Russia was based on mutual respect and mutual benefit, in which both win. The Chinese department in charge has made clear Chinas position on the Ukraine issue on many occasions: China will not add fuel to the fire, let alone take advantage of (the situation), the ministry added, according to a translation. It follows comments from the foreign ministry in April, which said that China would not provide weapons to either side in the war, and that it would control the exports of dual-use items in accordance with laws and regulations. It remains unclear to what extent Chinese authorities are aware of or implicated in the trade. The items being dual-use has thus far left enough room for deniability for China to avoid Western sanctions. Meanwhile, Washington and the E.U. have both been reluctant to accuse Beijing outright. The White Houses National Security Council did not respond to a request for comment on the trade flows. However, analysts noted that there is little indication that Beijing is taking actions to mitigate the sales. Exporters in China who export to Russia are not going to receive penalties for doing so, so long as they dont explicitly violate Western sanctions and dont provoke additional tensions with the West. So long as they can keep these exports quiet, they seem to be at little risk of provoking the ire of the Communist Party, Webster said. Still, continued alliance with Moscow could have significant long-term consequences for Chinas slowing economy. Already, the U.S. and several Western allies have restricted the trade of certain sensitive technologies to China as part of a wider de-risking, or diversification, away from Beijing amid national security concerns. China would prefer for Russia not to lose, but they would prefer not to get involved, Hmaidi said. There could be arguments to send weapons, and there has been intelligence around maybe they want to send weapons. But also, they are very, very careful to stay below the sanctions. Western allies now face a difficult decision: Either target individual sellers knowing the impact may be limited or take action against Beijing with potentially wider repercussions and risks of retaliation. If China were to openly support Russia, there would be huge ramifications for the totality of Beijings economic, political and security relationship with the Washington- and Brussels-led alliance of democracies, Webster said. (Onda Cero Cadiz-Rota) A teenager has stabbed three teachers and at least one pupil in a high school in southern Spain, police have said. One of the teachers was stabbed in the eye during the attack in Jerez de la Frontera, southern Spain, on Thursday morning, according to local reports. The other three victims suffered minor wounds, a source from Andalusias health services said. Police and emergency services were called to the stabbing at the Elena Garcia Armada Institute at around 8.25am. A teenager allegedly took a knife from his rucksack shortly after arriving before attacking classmates, according to news outlet ABC Sevilla. When a teacher intervened, she was stabbed in the eye, according to the reports, which add that another teacher who came to her aid was also injured. A 14-year-old has been arrested over the stabbing and taken into police custody. Police spokesman Adrian Dominguez told reporters: Police located the suspect on the third floor. He had in his possession the two knives used to attack three teachers and two students. Speaking to Spanish news agency EFE, a pupil said: He started to attack everyone, even the teacher. He almost caught my friend and hit another friend in the forearm. And my physics and chemistry teacher in the head. A pupils mother told Canal SUR television channel that the attacker had wielded two large knives from his backpack and attacked fellow pupils and teachers, telling them he would kill them. #Ahora Asi esta la situacion ahora en la puerta del IES Elena Garcia Armada donde esta manana ha ocurrido un suceso donde un menor ha apunalado a profesores y alumnos. @OndaCero_es @MediodiaOC https://t.co/sxgzR5B5QI pic.twitter.com/q4XjO1cqPV Onda Cero Cadiz-Rota (@ondacerocadiz) September 28, 2023 The first teacher attacked is in a serious condition and was taken to Jerez de la Frontera University Hospital where they are expected to undergo surgery. The rest of those injured have also gone to the same hospital for treatment. The secondary school was immediately evacuated following the incident. Pictures from outside the school show parents and students waiting for news from inside the campus. Jerez de la Frontera mayor Maria Jose Garcia Pelayo said: It was devastating and dramatic because all the parents were on the outside of the school wishing they could hug their children. A woman from Toronto was hospitalised on a trip to France after eating at a Bordeaux wine bar. Jubilee Pridham, 33, fell ill after dining at a wine bar in Bordeauxs tourism district, and is reportedly recovering from botulism caused by sardines she ate there, per CTV News Toronto. A GoFundMe account that has been set up to help with Pridhams expenses says she ate the sardines on the first day of her trip; from France, Pridham was supposed to travel to Spain before returning to Canada, the Toronto Star reported. Jubilee was infected with a rare botulism toxin during her first meal of house-made preserved sardines at a popular restaurant, the page says. She woke up to double vision, difficulty breathing and swallowing the next morning. Her health quickly deteriorated and she eventually lost the ability to speak, see, or move and was taken to a hospital. Her respiratory distress was so severe that she was placed on a ventilator as she could no longer breathe independently. She was admitted to the ICU with only the faint movement of her fingers and toes due to severe paralysis, the GoFundMe says. The sardines reportedly made several people ill, including a woman Pridham was travelling with named Gabby Chartier, though her case wasnt as severe as Pridhams. A 32-year-old woman in France reportedly died from illness caused by the sardines, per CTV News Toronto. French health authorities have put out an alert warning anyone who dined at Tchin Tchin wine bar between Monday 4 and Sunday September 10, 2023, should consult a doctor urgently. Botulism is often the result of bacteria found in food; they thrive in home-canned food, especially, per the Mayo Clinic. Oftentimes, botulism results from homemade food that hasnt been stored properly. It can also occur when a wound is exposed to bacteria. Foodborne botulism causes symptoms like dry mouth, difficulty speaking or swallowing, weakness on both sides of ones face, double vision, blurred vision, trouble breathing, drooping eyelids, vomiting, nausea, stomach cramps, and paralysis; wound botulism causes some but not all of those symptoms. While the symptoms of wound botulism may not show up for 10 days after a wound has been exposed to bacteria, the warning signs of foodborne botulism usually begin within 12 to 36 hours after eating the food. Its important to seek medical care if you think you have botulism, since it can be life-threatening. The condition affects ones ability to control their muscles, so it can cause complications that take a long time to heal, including shortness of breath and lasting weakness. Usually, if a doctor suspects botulism, theyll ask what kinds of foods youve recently eaten. To confirm the diagnosis, they may check for paralysis or muscle weakness or drooping eyelids. They may also request a sample of ones blood, vomit, or stool to check for the toxin that causes the illness. When Ms Pridham fell ill, her family left Canada to go be with her, according to the GoFundMe. This severe health crisis has thrust her into a fight to regain her life, the GoFundMe says. Her health insurance has covered the cost of her hospital stay thus far; it does not, however, extend to the unknowable cost and timeline of her recovery and rehabilitation. Ms Pridham, a general manager at a restaurant in Toronto, wont be able to report to work for the foreseeable future, the GoFundMe states. In addition to her recovery costs, she also has everyday financial responsibilities, the page says. At this time, we are uncertain as to the financial burden this will have on her and her family. Her partner, Lowell Sostomi, told CTV News Toronto that her recovery wont be quick. Were seeing improvements, but its small steps everyday. Part of the money raised through her GoFundMe will be used to help Ms Pridhams partner and family travel so they can continue to be with her until shes well enough to return home. Theyll also help cover the cost of wages lost during this time. Jubilees life has been an example of kindness and generosity, the page says. She is the person who consistently looks out for everyone in her circle and the community beyond She feeds you, listens to you, checks in with you and treats you with empathy, intention and care In light of the immense impact shes had on the lives of those around her, we would greatly appreciate any assistance from those who can contribute to her care and recovery. Several hundred fighters of the Wagner mercenary group have returned to Ukraine to fight in Russias continuing invasion but have not made a significant impact on the battlefield, military officials in Kyiv said. "We have recorded the presence of a maximum of several hundred fighters of the former Wagner PMC (private military company)," spokesperson for the eastern military command Serhiy Cherevatyi said. These Wagner fighters were scattered in different places, were not part of a single unit, and had had no significant impact, he said. "They do not constitute any integral, systematic, organised force," the spokesperson said. "As they say game over. These are pathetic remnants, nothing good awaits them here." The Independent has not verified the reports on Wagners return on the battlefield. If confirmed, this will mark the first ever comeback of Wagner in Ukraine after the death of its supreme leader Yevgeny Prigozhin in August. Russias Investigative Committee says it has confirmed Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin was killed in a plane crash. On 23 August, Prigozhins private jet came down north-west of Moscow, killing all those on board. Video footage showed debris falling from the sky above Kuzhenkino in Russia, with pictures emerging of the wreckage. His right-hand man Dmitry Utkin was also on board the Embraer Legacy 600 jet, as well as five other passengers and three crew members. Russian military bloggers have reported that some Wagner fighters have been returning to Ukraine. In this photo released by the Belarusian Defense Ministry on Thursday, July 20, 2023, soldiers of the Special Operations Forces (SOF) and mercenary fighters from Wagner private military company pose for a photo while the weeklong maneuvers that will be conducted at a firing range near the border city of Brest, Belarus (Belarus' Defense Ministry) The officials in Kyiv condemned the group on Wednesday once again and denied its existence. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said the group comprising majorly of prison convicts no longer existed. "Today, there are only former militants of the terrorist group who have scattered in all directions," he wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. He said some had gone to Africa, some were dispersed through Russia, and some had contracts with the Russian Defence Ministry and were fighting in the Bakhmut sector. Reports of their return were intended to drown out news of Ukraines recapture of two villages near Bakhmut, the official said. The mercenaries, responsible for carrying out Russias dirty work in Africa, also played a crucial role in Russias continuing invasion of Ukraine and handed Vladimir Putin one of Moscows biggest territorial feats by capturing the eastern city of Bakhmut in May. It came after one of the longest and fiercest battles of Moscows 19-month war in Ukraine. But after complaints of ammunition starvation, Wagner chief Prigozhin announced he and his fighters will leave Bakhmut after the battle. Some of them went to Belarus under a deal that ended a brief mutiny by Wagner in June, during which it took control of a Russian military headquarters and marched on Moscow. After Prigozhins death, the Kremlin has sought to bring the group under tighter state control. By Brendan Pierson (Reuters) -Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued Yelp Inc on Thursday for allegedly misleading consumers by posting notices on its business review website stating that crisis pregnancy centers provide limited medical services. In the lawsuit, filed in the district court of Bastrop County, Texas, Paxton, a Republican, accused the California-based company of violating a Texas law against unfair business practices. Crisis pregnancy centers offer pregnant women counseling while seeking to prevent them from having abortions. Generally, they do not clearly advertise their anti-abortion stance. The lawsuit comes a day after Yelp preemptively sued Paxton in San Francisco federal court in an effort to ward off his action. Yelp argued that its notices were true, not misleading, and protected free speech under the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment. The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment. In August 2022, Yelp began posting a notice on crisis pregnancy centers' pages stating: "This is a Crisis Pregnancy Center. Crisis Pregnancy Centers typically provide limited medical services and may not have licensed medical professionals onsite." In February, Paxton and other Republican state attorneys general told Yelp the notice was misleading because it was posted on pages of centers that did have licensed medical professionals. The company, without conceding that the language was misleading, changed the notices to state that crisis pregnancy centers "do not offer abortions or referrals to abortion providers." Paxton said at the time that the new language was accurate. In his lawsuit on Thursday, Paxton said: "Defendant's misrepresentations and failure to disclose the presence of licensed medical professionals at pregnancy resource centers dissuaded consumers from visiting these clinics in favor of clinics that perform abortion services." The lawsuit seeks an unspecified amount of money damages. Yelp had asked the San Francisco federal court for an order finding that it would be unconstitutional for Paxton to sue over the notices, and blocking him from doing so. There has not yet been any order in that case. Paxton was acquitted earlier this month of corruption allegations in an impeachment trial in the Texas state senate, after having been suspended from his post since May. (Reporting By Brendan Pierson in New York, Editing by Alexia Garamfalvi, Bill Berkrot and Rami Ayyub) An Ohio woman, who had been kicked out college and flew into a murderous rage when her mother found out, was sentenced to at least 15 years behind bars on Thursday. Sydney Powell, 23, will eligible for parole after serving a decade and a half in custody, under the life prison term imposed by Summit County Common Pleas Court Judge Kelly McLaughlin. Sydney Powell at her sentencing hearing at Summit County Courthouse in Akron, Ohio, on Sept. 28, 2023. (via WKYC) Powell hit mother Brenda Powell, 50, with an iron skillet on March 3, 2020 in Akron, before stabbing her nearly 30 times in the neck, prosecutors said. A jury last week found the younger Powell guilty of murder, assault and tampering with evidence. The convicted murderer had been suspended by Mount Union University for poor grades and the school officials were on the phone with Brenda Powell when the fatal attack unfolded. School officials called Akron police when they heard screaming on the other end of the line. "The phone cut off at some point after, I would say, somewhere in the neighborhood of six or seven of those thudding, those sort of thud sounds, and the screaming had continued," Associate Dean of Students Michelle Gaffney testified earlier this month. Alarmed school officials repeatedly called the Powell home back before a woman picked up claiming to be Brenda Powell, who was a child life specialist at Akron Childrens Hospital. "The voice on the other ends said, 'Yes this is Brenda. Yes, this is Brenda,' " Gaffney recalled. "It was not Brenda. I was sure it was Sydney. Both Dean (of Students John) Frasier and I looked at each other and sort of shook our heads at each other and said that's not Brenda. He then said, 'Sydney I think this is you, this is not Brenda.' The phone (then) went dead." Sydney Powell, wearing orange jail garb, declined to make a statement in court due to the upcoming appellate case, her defense lawyer said. She said "yes" in a soft voice when Judge McLaughlin asked if she wanted the court to appoint an attorney to represent her for that appeal. "To the victim, to the family and the friends, I am terribly sorry for your loss here," McLaughlin told the court. "I cannot imagine what you have been through." Powell was shackled at the waist and cried as she was led out of court. Former President Donald Trump criticized President Biden, Democrats and the big three automakers over electric cars in remarks in the Detroit suburbs Wednesday night, as his Republican opponents were getting ready to take the stage in California for the second GOP presidential debate. The president spoke at auto parts manufacturer and supplier Drake Enterprises, a non-union plant in Clinton Charter Township, Michigan, but spent a significant amount of time addressing an audience not in the room, the United Auto Workers union members striking in 20 states. The former president praised the work of auto workers, saying they don't get the credit they deserve, as some audience members waved "Unions for Trump" signs. "You built this country," Trump told his audience, to cheers. He said he sided with the auto workers of America who want to make America great again, and who make cars "that are going to go far." And he also complained that automakers were either "stupid or gutless" for investing in developing electric cars, of which he said, "The damn things don't go far enough, and they're too expensive." Trump blasted President Biden's record on auto manufacturing and workers, one day after Mr. Biden visited the picket line. "Biden's mandate isn't a government regulation, it's a government assassination of your jobs and your industry," Trump said. "The auto industry is being assassinated. And it makes no difference what you get, I don't care what you get in the next two weeks or three weeks or five weeks. They're going to be closing up and they're going to be building those cars in China and other places. It's a hit job on Michigan and on Detroit, and that's not sustainable." Trump announced his visit to the Detroit area before Mr. Biden did. "He only came after I announced that I would be here," Trump said Wednesday night, adding that Mr. Biden only spoke for a "few seconds." Trump said to the non-union crowd that "hopefully," UAW and other union leaders would endorse him, while noting they tend to endorse Democrats. Throughout the speech, he addressed UAW workers and their leaders who were not in the room. "Shawn, endorse Trump," he said, directing his comment toward UAW leader Shawn Fain. The UAW has not yet endorsed in the presidential race, but Fain's remarks about Trump in an interview on CNN suggested that he's no fan of the former president. "I see no point in meeting with him because I don't think the man has any bit of care about what our workers stand for, what the working class stands for," Mr. Fain said. "He serves a billionaire class, and that's what's wrong with this country." When Mr. Biden visited the UAW on the picket lines in Michigan, Fain was the first to greet Biden after he arrived. The Democratic National Committee set up anti-Trump billboards in Detroit ahead of the former president's visit. And on Wednesday, the Biden campaign announced the release of a new ad in Michigan attacking Trump as anti-union. "He says he stands with auto workers, but as president, Donald Trump passed tax breaks for his rich friends while auto makers shuttered their plants, and Michigan lost manufacturing jobs," the ad says. "Joe Biden said he'd stand up for workers, and he's delivering." The Trump campaign dismissed the president's visit to Michigan as a "PR stunt." "This is nothing more than a PR stunt from Crooked Joe Biden to distract and gaslight the American people from his disastrous Bidenomics policies that have led to so much economic misery across the country," the Trump campaign said in a statement. Trump has been criticizing Mr. Biden over his support for electric vehicles for days. The president has taken a number of steps to drive the country away from cars powered by fossil fuels and toward EVs, proposing dramatic reductions in tailpipe emissions, approving funding for charging stations, incentivizing the conversion of auto manufacturing facilities to EV or battery plants and more. How to watch the second Republican presidential debate tonight Meanwhile, Gov. Ron DeSantis, former Gov. Nikki Haley, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, former Vice President Mike Pence, former Gov. Chris Christie and Sen. Tim Scott are teeing off a second time at the Reagan Library. So far, Trump's decision to duck out of the debates hasn't hurt his poll numbers. He's still trouncing all of his Republican challengers. DeSantis said Trump owes it to voters to show up and debate. Trump, in his remarks, referred to the second GOP debate as a "jobs" debate, joking that the candidates were vying to be in his Cabinet. He asked if anyone saw a potential vice president in the group. "I don't think so," he said, answering his own question. DeSantis said on Fox News Tuesday,"I think he owes it to all the voters to show up, defend his record, and articulate what he would do going forward and what he would might do differently. And he's not willing to do that. I think the voters have a right to hear from all the candidates." Gen. Milley responds to Trump post accusing general of treason | 60 Minutes North Korea says it will expel Travis King, U.S. soldier who ran across border Arrest warrent issued for suspect in killing of 26-year-old Baltimore tech CEO A state judge in Montana on Wednesday temporarily blocked a ban on gender-affirming care for transgender youth, just four days before the law was set to take effect. Senate Bill 99, which was signed into law by Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte in April, prohibits gender-affirming treatment for minors, while also restricting social transitioning a process that typically involves a change in first names, pronouns, hairstyle and clothing to reflect a persons gender identity. Earlier this year, three transgender children and their families, as well as two medical providers who work with transgender youth, filed a lawsuit in Missoula District Court arguing the law violates their rights under the Montana Constitution including the right to privacy, equal protection and the right of parents to direct the upbringing of their children. Attorneys representing the plaintiffs the American Civil Liberties Union, its Montana affiliate, the LGBTQ rights advocacy group Lambda Legal, and the private law firm Perkins Coie urged the court to block enforcement of the ban, which they slammed as a direct assault on the freedom and well-being of transgender youth, their families, and their medical providers. On Wednesday, Missoula County District Court Judge Jason Marks found that SB99 is unlikely to survive any level of constitutional review. He also wrote that barring access to gender-affirming care would negatively impact gender dysphoric minors mental and physical health. Condemned by critics as draconian and particularly cruel, SB99 made headlines earlier this year after Rep. Zooey Zephyr, whos trans, was silenced by her Republican colleagues for saying those who vote in favor of the legislation would have blood on (their) hands. We are gratified the judge understood the danger of denying transgender Montana youth access to gender-affirming care as the challenge to this cruel and discriminatory law proceeds, Kell Olson, a staff attorney with Lambda Legal, said Wednesday in a statement. However, even though the ruling permits the plaintiffs to breathe a sigh of relief, the fight is far from over, said Akilah Deernose, executive director of the ACLU of Montana. We look forward to vindicating our clients constitutional rights and ensuring that this hateful law never takes effect. The preliminary injunction will remain in effect as the lawsuit challenging the law proceeds through court. ______ 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. YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 28, ARMENPRESS. The 2024 state budget will preliminary allocate a total of 10 billion drams for the forcibly displaced persons from Nagorno-Karabakh, finance minister Vahe Hovhannisyan said at the Cabinet meeting. We are approving the budget in an environment when we have tens of thousands of forcibly displaced refugees, whom we must take or of, and ensure their dignified accommodation in the mid-term. Not having a concrete number on the forcibly displaced at this moment, we are defining a clear point in the state budget, preliminarily envisaging 10 billion drams, with the possibility of increasing it as needed, Hovhannisyan said at the 2024 budget discussion. YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 28, ARMENPRESS. Speaker of Parliament Alen Simonyan on September 28 in Dublin met with President of the National Assembly of France Yael Braun-Pivet. During the meeting Simonyan said that the most pessimistic predictions over Azerbaijans policy and aggression have turned into reality. The issues resulting from the forced displacement of the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh were discussed. Views were exchanged on the need to impose international sanctions against Azerbaijan, the parliaments press service said. Alen Simonyan emphasized that France is a true ally to the Armenian people and Armenia, and expressed certainty on the continuity of Frances efforts in the direction of ensuring Armenias security. He said he expects the French National Assembly and Senate to express their attitude regarding the ongoing tragic events. Yael Braun-Pivet expressed her support to the people of NK and said she would invest all efforts for the stabilization of the situation. Views were exchanged on the need for condemnation by the international community of Azerbaijans policy. Simonyan thanked for the announcement by the French foreign minister Catherine Colonna on opening a consulate in Syunik. Ill be joining the baritone Sidney Outlaw an exceptional artist in songs and spirituals by Harry Burleigh on Saturday, October 14, at the Newark School of the Arts. Its a one-hour presentation, at noon, followed by a master class. Its free but you need to reserve tickets at pmolina@newarkschoolofthearts.org Burleigh once Dvoraks assistant in New York is mainly remembered for turning spirituals into deeply felt concert songs. But his art songs a separate repertoire deserve fresh advocacy. Our program will include Lovely, Dark, and Lonely One arguably Burleighs peak achievement. A supreme American art song, it both sets and confutes Langston Hughes. As Ive observed in this space and in the Wall Street Journal : Processing Hughess expression of impatience, Burleigh turns the poem upside down. . . . Not for Burleigh is Langston Hughess agitation, or the activism of a Paul Robeson. Nor is there the merest hint of modernist dissonance. We do not have to agree with him in order to admire the eloquence with which he here sustains his credo . . . that deliverance from all that hinders and oppresses the soul will come and manevery manwill be free. Sidney Outlaw will also be heard in recital at the Manhattan School of Music on October 12. And he can be heard on my upcoming NPR More than Music program on Cultural Diplomacy Revisited (Oct. 16) memorably singing Gershwin and spirituals to fishermen in Chad. The writer is a senior foreign correspondent and the author of Sri Lanka: The New Country Canada's own Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) identified at least eight fronts of the LTTE in Canada. Is India guilty of assassinating a terrorist in Canada? At least to one of Indias neighbours, Ottawas accusation will come as a boring re-run of Ottawas inglorious policies, of which it has long been a victim. For 30 years, one of the worlds bloodiest civil wars had raged in Sri Lanka. What began as a separatist movement in the north and east, quickly escalated into a full-blown armed conflict led by the terror group Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Thousands of frightened Tamils sought asylum in the affluent countries of the West. Given the Wests love for freedom struggles (as long as they were far away), diaspora groups backing the Tamil Tigers rapidly mushroomed in Canada, Australia, Britain and the EU. From 1983 onwards, these groups began to send money and ship weapons to the LTTE in Sri Lanka. Banks -- and ports -- in Western countries looked the other way. The LTTE invented the suicide vest, built a navy, in later years even a small air force, forcibly recruited child soldiers and routinely pushed infirm civilians to battle front lines as covers and human shields. It also assassinated a Sri Lankan President, Indias former PM Rajiv Gandhi and at least 55 other parliamentarians, activists, police officers and journalists. Western governments still pretended not to notice. By the mid-late 2000s, Western intelligence agencies began to present findings. Canada's own Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) identified at least eight fronts of the LTTE in Canada. Human Rights Watch (HRW) published a 45-page report, minutely detailing the LTTEs extortion tactics in Canada. A South Asia Intelligence Review (SAIR) report estimated that the LTTE were receiving $10 million per year from pro-LTTE groups in Canada alone. (Many years later, these findings were confirmed to me by the LTTEs former chief overseas financer, K. Pathmanathan -- KP -- himself). Canada did nothing. By the time the Sri Lankan armed forces finally defeated the LTTE in May 2009, a total of 130,000 people had been killed. Given the firepower of Sri Lankas armed forces at the time, why did it take three decades to end the war? Primarily due to interference by the Western countries, including and especially Canada, the UK and the EU. In extensive interviews both during and after the civil war, Sri Lankas Army brass confirmed that Colombo was threatened with sanctions and ordered to call ceasefires, each time victory was imminent. The Tigers used each pause to recruit, replenish and refresh their terror campaign. And when they were ready, they would start fighting again. Canada and the EU were and remain victims of the moronic syndrome known as Wokeness, towards conflicts they neither fully understand nor face themselves. However, it must be admitted that India, too, initially treated the LTTE as freedom fighters and armed, trained and funded them. It is only after the brutal assassination of Rajiv Gandhi that New Delhi -- and soon the United States -- banned the LTTE. In 2006 -- merely three years before the war ended, a Conservative Canadian government finally proscribed the LTTE as an organisation known for its commitment to using indiscriminate terror tactics and suicide bombings. Global bans didnt end the war, Colombo did: by ignoring Western pressure and launching its final offensive against the LTTE. Whether he is revered or reviled today, the majority of Sri Lankans acknowledge that it was former President Mahinda Rajapaksas government that enabled that long-awaited victory. Of the worldwide nearly nine lakh-strong Tamil diaspora, nearly 2-3 lakh live in Canada today. The majority still shun the LTTE. However, small but influential groups still support separatism in Sri Lanka. Consequently, the defeat of the LTTE only saw an escalation of global pressure. The West insists that 40,000 Tamil civilians alone (unsubstantiated till date) and not a total of around 12,000 (as substantiated by the ICRC on the ground in Sri Lanka at the time) were wilfully slaughtered by the Sri Lankan Army, and that it (and the Rajapaksas) must be subjected to international investigation. Sri Lankas current economic mess has only served to turn the screws tighter. Canadas own history of human rights isnt quite covered in glory: *After World War II, it shoved citizens of Ukrainian origin into concentration camps. *It used Chinese labour to build its railways, but once done, it did its level best to keep Chinese migrants out. *After Pearl Harbour was bombed, Canada seized and auctioned properties belonging to Japanese Canadians and detained them in camps. *It resettled Inuit Indians against their will in the High Arctic, only to claim the inhospitable territory. *It set up residential schools for Canada's original aboriginal inhabitants. What is Liberal PM Justin Trudeaus avowed stand on Sri Lanka today? A year before Mr Trudeaus 2018 India visit (when a fetching Sophie Trudeau was photographed with a convicted Khalistani terrorist in Mumbai), he had met and posed with the chief of a banned Tamil organisation at an event in Canada. A photo was posted on Twitter by Mr Trudeaus principal secretary and labelled good people. In May 2023, when Sri Lanka celebrated its annual Victory Day to mark the end of the war, Mr Trudeau chose to commemorate the same as the Tamil Genocide Remembrance Day instead. An enraged Colombo summoned the Canadian high commissioner in Sri Lanka and told his government where to get off. Such irresponsible pronouncements breed disharmony and hatred instead of promoting peace and reconciliation, read an official statement. Mr Trudeaus popularity is waning. The Conservatives are gaining ground again. But unlike the beaver -- Canadas national animal -- which moults every summer, this is a nation which will never shed its double standards, whosoever comes to power. The Conservative leaders are also striking a pro-LTTE and, by default, an anti-Colombo stance. Some have promised to de-list the Tamil Tigers if they return to power. Others are openly appealing to pro-separatist Canadian Tamils. Not to be outdone by a single vote when elections are held at the latest by 2025, both major parties now associate Sri Lanka with only one word: genocide. Today, (we) renew our call for accountability for those who perpetrated this genocide, said Conservative chief Pierre Poilievre, also on Sri Lankas Victory Day. His statement refers to unimaginable atrocities, genocide and war crimes against Tamil Sri Lankans during the Sri Lankan civil war. But what about the LTTE, who kidnapped schoolkids and put them in suicide jackets? Theres not even a passing mention. by Shafique Khokhar A local association, Lok Vehar, organised the activity to raise awareness among residents about the effects on minors of last Augusts attacks on Christian homes and churches. The drawings were seen in parallel to those made by students who did not experience the violence. The initiative shows the importance of fighting discrimination from an early age. Faisalabad (AsiaNews) The Lok Vehar development organisation yesterday celebrated International Day of Peace with an art therapy workshop dedicated to Christian children who have suffered trauma as a result of religious violence. The event involved five private schools in Faisalabad and 85 Christian children aged 3-17 from Jaranwala, the city where many Christian homes and churches were attacked by Islamic extremists in August. The activity gave participating children the opportunity to communicate emotions through creative expression and to explore the differences between children who live in a peaceful environment and those who have suffered traumatic experiences. The aim is to promote psychological healing. Among its various benefits, art therapy allows people to externalise inner turmoil, reducing anguish and anxiety. The drawings by Faisalabad school children were very different from those by Christian children in Jaranwala. While the former drew scenes of nature and joyful interactions, the latter drew distressing elements, illustrating pain, fear, loneliness, helplessness, and the loss of home and religious symbols. The initiative was intended to show the effects of violence on minors and the need to provide support to Christian children who have experienced discrimination and witnessed attacks against churches. The Lok Vehar organisation framed the paintings by the children in Jaranwala and installed them inside a community hall in Warispura parish. The event was not only designed to raise awareness in the local population about the traumas of children. Lok Vehar has also set out to address bullying in schools and promote peaceful coexistence among children from different backgrounds. "Lok Vehar will collaborate with both government and private schools to instil values of inclusivity and empathy in young students," Saiqa Kaur, director of the organisation, told AsiaNews. By bringing children from different backgrounds into the same learning environment, we aim to teach the importance of embracing diversity and living together harmoniously, she explained. To this end, We will continue working with the children of Jaranwala and will try our best with the help of experts to heal their wounds. What is more, Through our commitment for inclusive education and promoting acceptance, diversity, and peaceful coexistence, Lok Vehar aims to create a generation of young individuals who actively appreciate and respect differences. Ultimately, We are trying to serve as a testament to the power of peace education in shaping a brighter, more unified future for Jaranwala and beyond, Saiqa Kaur said in concluding. by Vladimir Rozanskij They cause serious inconvenience to ordinary people in Russia, but do not bother the armed forces much because of the arms production that continues thanks to the Serniya, a smuggling network linked to the FSB security services. The poor controls on financial transactions. The business with Moscow that goes on even in the West. Moscow (AsiaNews) - The United States and the European Union have already approved and applied eleven sanctions packages against Russia, due to its aggression against Ukraine. The declared aim is to deprive Putin of the means to continue the war, both financial and technological. Yet, the war shows no signs of stopping, and Russia unloads bombs and missiles produced in 2023 using American and European components into Ukraine, while European countries prohibit cars with Russian license plates from entering through their borders. The sanctions cause serious inconvenience to ordinary people in Russia, but do not disturb the armed forces much in the production of weapons and the conduct of war. The Russian economist Maksim Mironov has expressed his doubts in various interventions, including an in-depth analysis in the Financial Times. The problem he highlighted is the vast smuggling network set up by the Russians, the so-called Serniya, from which American companies in particular receive misleading information on the final destinations of various items sold, allowing military technologies, electronics and machinery to circulate. These materials then arrive in Russia through various more or less direct routes, via Estonia, Finland, Hong Kong and others. Serniya has been linked by various sources to the FSB security services. Other economists also contributed to Mironov's research, verifying the customs documentation of many countries, including on the sale of gas and oil at prices higher than those decided by sanctions, and on the particularly sensitive market of microchips. The initiatives of many more or less masked Russian agents active in the countries that issued the sanctions were highlighted. In addition to Russian businessmen, long established in Germany, Great Britain, the United States and other places, there are members of the same services operating under various professional and residential specifications, such as FSB Colonel Vadim Konosenok, arrested in December last year on the border between Estonia and Russia while trying to transport microchips and electronic elements essential for the Russian artillery. Western governments struggle to limit the commercial activities of many Russian representatives, especially in Europe, as they do not have adequate legislative and judicial tools to fight against the smuggling of these materials, which are not always included in the registers of sanctioned articles. The US Ministry of Justice accused the Serniya participants of "highly secret purchases" in the interests of espionage organized by the FSB. Mironov himself has suffered threats and personal attacks in Buenos Aires, where he lives, which have also endangered the health of his wife Aleksandra Petrackova by people shouting Stay away from Russia!. As Mironov underlines, the real problem of sanctions is precisely the mechanisms for controlling their applications, which appear decidedly inadequate. There have been various meetings of politicians in Brussels and elsewhere, which have not produced sufficient results in this regard. According to the economist "it is not enough to remove the use of Visa and Mastercard, which only punishes ordinary people, if all financial transactions, even the most elaborate ones, do not occur". In all of 2022, not a single court case has been completed over companies helping to circumvent sanctions. For example, from the Russian port of Kozmino, near Nakhodka in the eastern region of Primorje, oil sales continued regularly at 73 dollars a barrel, instead of the 60 of the established ceiling, complete with insurance contracts by Western companies, for a quantity of 96% of that of the period before the war and sanctions. In the publications of Mironov and others, several similar stories are reported, which make us reflect on who really intends to stop the war, or who instead prefers to continue doing business, both among the Russians and among their adversaries. Photo: Flickr / Andrei Filippov by Arundathie Abeysinghe The government and school authorities decided to crack down on the practice of "ragging", widespread in the country's universities. A phenomenon that causes thousands of school dropouts every year, but the most vulnerable struggle to overcome physical and psychological violence. The testimony to AsiaNews of three victims who still suffer from the disabling effects today. Colombo (AsiaNews) - Road blocks, access surveillance and tight controls in the country's state universities. The Sri Lankan authorities have cracked down on bullying (ragging), which in the Indian sub-continent (Sri Lanka, India, Bangladesh and Pakistan) identifies the so-called "initiation ritual" at the entrance to institutions in the first year. Of course, university leaders could invoke specific laws such as the Prohibition of Ragging and Other Forms of Violence in Educational Institutions Act number 20 of 1998, but so far it has not been enough to stem an increasingly widespread practice. The code defines "ragging" as a crime punishable by law, also because it can have dramatic effects. In fact, it does not only fuel the university dropout of thousands of students every year as confirmed by Barana Jayawardena, president of Futa (Federation of University Teachers Association). In the worst cases, it pushes some - and not just the most fragile - to suicide because they are unable to overcome the trauma they have suffered. Students report that in some universities there are even "torture chambers" used for the practice, with very serious mental and physical outcomes. The issue came back into the spotlight recently, when the Supreme Court ordered universities and the Inspector General of Police to submit reports on bullying incidents and investigations conducted into cases reported over the past three years. The directive was given during the discussion of the complaint of a graduate student from the Faculty of Management of the Sri Jayawardenepura University, who on 5 March 2020 had been the victim of an episode during a party organized by the students, resulting in almost fatal injuries. Charuni Ileperuma (29 years old), Prasanna Wijesekera (28) and Nimantha Punchihewa (26) are originally from Mirijjawila, in Hambantota, Southern Province. The three are former students of Ruhuna University and want to share with AsiaNews the violence they suffered in the past, from which they suffered in the following years. We (freshmen) were taken to different places after classes and abused for hours. When we went to the campus restaurant to have lunch, the elderly - says Charuni - poured buckets of stinky water mixed with waste on us and we were beaten because we refused to eat contaminated food." The story continues with the violence suffered during the night, when we were woken up and I was asked to crawl onto a chair. Since I was stuck inside the chair and couldn't get out, they dragged me out. I screamed and lost consciousness. I was hospitalized for several months. The doctors told me that the bones were damaged and I am bedridden. My parents are farmers and my mother stays at home to take care of me since I am an invalid." Prasanna and Nimantha also suffered similar abuse: they jumped from the second floor of their hostel and now walk on crutches. According to the Minister of Higher Education Suren Raghavan "even if laws are created and political decisions are made, the desired result cannot be achieved" without the collaboration of all the actors involved, from the heads of the institutes to the teachers, up to the students themselves . In the last eight months - he continues - we have worked on the creation of a national anti-bullying committee composed of 10 members which includes government representatives, human rights activists, police forces and the Witness Protection Committee. Because, he warns, it will be essential to "guarantee protection for victims". Nishantha Samarasinghe, a former police officer, comments: The leniency of the university authorities, the reluctance of the victims to file and pursue complaints, the reluctance of the witnesses and the lack of support for the victims from the management of the universities are obstacles in the fight against bullying. And police stations do not encourage reporting because they often record cases of bullying as "minor crimes". by John Ai A computer programmer from Chengde had three years' salary confiscated by the police for using a VPN. The device makes it possible to circumvent the block on foreign websites imposed by the Chinese authorities. The affair is viewed with concern by professionals and companies operating in the internet services and foreign trade in China. Meanwhile, abroad, Beijing is very active in defending its narrative on the same social networks that are 'banned' at home. A computer programmer from Chengde, a city in the northern province of Hebei, said he was fined more than 1.05 million yuan (130,570 euros) by the police - equal to his salary for three years - because he used a VPN to access to international websites while working from home. VPN (virtual private network) is a tool often used by Chinese web users to bypass the Chinese internet firewall. The measure sparked an online debate. Currently, major online services provided by Google, Facebook and Twitter are blocked by Chinese authorities, so multinational companies, foreign trade enterprises and internet companies rely on VPNs to access the international web sphere. Many fear that this move by the authorities will further discourage ordinary people from freely accessing the internet. The programmer disclosed the document and the decision issued by the Chengde city police on his account on a social network. According to the document, the programmer worked as a freelancer from his home and had been receiving assignments from foreign companies to write codes remotely since 2019. In a document in which the police asked the bank to provide information on his assets, he was described as "a suspect involved in terrorist activities". The Chengde Municipal Public Security Bureau accused him of "creating an illegal channel to international networks" and confiscated his "illegal income" of 1.05 million yuan. Although he lodged a complaint with the government, the authorities confirmed the police decision. Now the programmer intends to file a lawsuit against the police and ask lawyers for help. According to his post, the local police identified his Twitter account in September 2022, used to share content and "like" his company's posts. Police also seized his mobile phone and laptop, demanding he provide an employment contract, information about his company and his bank account. Then, in August, his income from three years of work was confiscated. Chinese law provides that bypassing the Internet block without authorization leads to a maximum fine of 15 thousand yuan (1945 euros) and the confiscation of income. Across China, web users are reported to be fined or detained for a short period of time for using a VPN to access foreign internet services. In Xinjiang, the punishment can be more severe: those who have installed a VPN application on their phone can even end up in prison. The Chengde police remain silent on the matter and disable comments under his posts on social networks. Many citizens on the web complain that the harsh punishment terrifies those who need to bypass the internet blockade to access foreign web services, particularly computer programming and foreign trade professionals. Some comments believe that the high number of confiscations is linked to the financial state of the debt-obsessed local government. As Chinese authorities crack down on the use of tools to escape censorship on the web, official media and government agencies have become more active and aggressive in spreading the Chinese Communist Party's ideology and narrative on social platforms international, despite these tools being blocked in the People's Republic of China. Some Chinese officials even argued with foreign government and public figures on Twitter. However, China has never said how government agencies and officials accessed websites blocked by authorities, nor has it ever admitted the existence of the firewall on local internet services. The former editor-in-chief of the official Global Times newspaper, Hu Xijin, also commented on this case. Now retired, but still active in defending the authorities, he said he agreed with the internet firewall to protect China's "political and ideological security", while he argued that the case of the confiscation of the programmer's income increases doubts in the society and is not beneficial for opening. His online comments have also been removed. RED LANTERNS IS THE ASIANEWS NEWSLETTER DEDICATED TO THE CHINA. TO RECEIVE A WEEKLY UPDATE EVERY THURSDAY, CLICK HERE. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Nancy Johnson is a Carbondale resident and medical billing advocate who has spent 25-plus years learning to speak the medical billing language and translate the system for her clients. Using her powers for good, she advocates to equalize the power imbalance in health care. You can reach her at gotadvocate@gmail.com. SUV AMG Sure, one can say there's nothing wrong about blending in Audi has done that for decades, and they're still there, fighting for supremacy in the premium German triumvirate. Others will also claim that it's not logical to go the way of Looney Tunes like BMW did for some of its models just in a bid to catch everyone's attention.However, I think Mercedes is currently missing the point entirely with models that are interchangeable between classes if you adjust the dimensions like the S-Class and the fifth generation (W206) C-Class. Even the all-new, second-generation GLC compact crossoveris more of the same and you could easily mistake it for its predecessor if you're not paying too much attention.The company probably realized that it's going on a path of self-destruction in the eyes of fans trying to recapture that feeling of timeless elegance that was once the signature styling of Mercedes even though they're not necessarily making things better with the star-studded E-Class. Anyway, the damage is already done for the GLC, so all they can do is brace for impact and hope that some of its high-end models prevail in a sea of better rivals.Just recently, Mercedes' sporty divisionlaunched the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC Coupe models the entry-level GLC 43 and the feisty GLC 63 S E Performance. As the names suggest, the former is the base variant with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder rocking 416 hp and then another 13 hp because it's a mild hybrid. Not bad, right?Well, the sad news is the mighty 63 S variant uses the same four-pot, and then it's aided by electricity to develop 671 horsepower and no less than 752 lb-ft of torque. The performance figures are impressive, of course, given the 3.4s needed to hit 60 mph (96 kph) and the electronically limited max speed of 171 mph (275 kph). However, you probably won't impress anyone with the sound of a meager inline-four.As such, you could at least attract attention from the visual standpoint. However, no one will notice the new version because it's so close to the old one. No worries, the imaginative realm of digital car content creators jumps to the rescue and prompts some ideas for a quick visit to the local aftermarket shop. So, Alan Enileev, a former Need for Speed world champion, asked his friend Nikita Chuicko, the virtual artist better known as kelsonik on social media, to think of a way to tickle our AMG GLC Coupe senses.So, he fueled our S 63 E Performance dreams (or nightmares, depending on your POV) with a black-out grille, four new colors all dressed in satin matte shades (red, blue, two nuances of gray, and green), tinted windows and taillights, plus a set of humongous Vossen HF2 wheels dressed in black, of course. Now that you had a chance to check them in the gallery above or the post embedded below, what do you think does the new GLC Coupe from AMG stand a better chance against the BMW X4 M40i and X4 M or not? Photo: Toyota Sourced from the Saddleback Leather Company, the leather upholstery in question does look the part. On the other hand, calling it ultra-premium is a bit of a stretch on Toyota's part. What should we call the extremely high-quality leathers used by Rolls-Royce and Bentley, then? Mega-, hyper-, or giga-premium?Look beyond the tawdry marketing vernacular, and you get a rather nice truck. With driver-side seat plastic that cracks rather easily , that is. Limited to 1,500 units, the US market-exclusive 1794 Limited Edition promises enhanced off-road capability due to a 1.1-inch lift kit and shock absorbers from Fox.The 2.5-inch diameter shocks use internal bypass technology, which can be summed up as a tube inside the main body with ports and shim stacks. Simply put, said construction enables better handling, ride, and stability at higher speeds over a wider range of terrain compared to conventional shock absorbers.What else makes the hybrid-exclusive 1794 Limited Edition stand out? As you can tell from the pics in the featured gallery, the list comprises an embossed label with the vehicle's number, dark chrome for the bodyside moldings and front grille, a 1794 Limited Edition-stamped tailgate, and some black accents.To arrive on dealer lots in the spring of 2024 for the 2024 model year, this half-ton pickup is available in four exterior colors: Blueprint, Wind Chill Pearl, Smoked Mesquite, and Midnight Black Metallic. Revealed at the State Fair of Texas, the 1794 Limited Edition is called as such after a cattle ranch established in 1794.Upon the ranch's land, Toyota built the factory where the Tundra is assembled. Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas started production of the second-gen Tundra in November 2006. TMMTX also produces the Sequoia, a full-size sport utility vehicle based on the GA-F platform of the Tundra.Exclusively Crew Cab with a 5.5-foot bed and four-wheel drive, the 1794 Limited Edition further sweetens the deal with Saddleback Leather Company leather goodies that include a small pouch, a large overnight bag, a key glove, and a tool roll. Equipped with the same 10-speed auto as every other Tundra, this fellow belts out the same 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet (790 Nm) of twist as lesser trims.Officially dubbed i-FORCE MAX, the hybrid powertrain brings together an electric motor (located inside the transmission's bell housing) and a twin-turbo V6. Listed with 3.5 liters despite a displacement of 3,445 cubic centimeters, the force-fed sixer combines direct and port fuel injection.It's not exactly frugal, though. As per the EPA's fuel economy ratings, the best a four-wheel-drive Tundra hybrid can do is 20 miles per gallon (11.7 liters per 100 kilometers) on the combined test cycle. By comparison, the Ford F-150 PowerBoost is rated at 23 mpg (10.2 l/100 km) with four-wheel drive. Brabus is a well-known European builder of cars. It mostly specializes in modifying Mercedes-AMG machines, but we do get the occasional Porsches, Rolls-Royces, and even Range Rovers. Oh, and these guys also have a side business dealing with boats. But how about motorcycles? Photo: KTM Photo: KTM Brabus does not produce bikes on its own, and it doesn't modify them either. But, as of 2022, it does lend its name, some of its expertise, and even engineers to the Austrians over at KTM.The collab first started in 2022, when the Brabus 1300 R motorcycle broke cover. It was a heavily modified 1290 Super Duke R Evo made in just 154 units with some very special tweaks. It was a bike so impressive it sold out in just two minutes after the configurator went live.Fueled by the success of the ride, one year later, the Brabus 1300 R Edition 23 broke cover, again as an altered variant of the 1290 Super Duke R Evo. This one was made too as a limited edition bike, this time with production capped at 290 units - and it too went out the door in mere minutes after the order books were open.Both bikes were shown by KTM in the spring of their respective years, so we were expecting the same to happen in 2023. For some reason, it didn't, and we kind of got used to the thought we wouldn't have a Brabus bike this year. Boy, were we wrong.Enter the 1300 R Masterpiece Edition, the bike that will put the nail in the rare Brabus-altered KTM bikes coffin for good. That's right, KTM said this 1290 Super Duke R Evo-based two-wheeler will be the last to be made together with the German tuner. Separately, it will also be the most exclusive, with just 50 bikes to be made.The Masterpiece packs in its trellis frame a 1.3-liter LC8 V-Twin engine rated at 180 horsepower and 140 Nm of torque, being capable of shooting the bike to a top speed of 270 kph (168 mph). 62 mph is reached from a standstill in just 3.2 seconds.That's the usual engine on this particular ride, and not the thing that makes it special. It's all those aftermarket parts the bike was fitted with, together with the fine touches seen all over, that do that.The first thing one notices when looking at this ride is the abundance of carbon fiber. The material can be seen, exposed or otherwise, on the covers of the single-sided swingarm, some of the frame's sections, and various covers that go on the bike.Another place where carbon is clearly visible is on the headlight visor. It goes over a headlight that's all Brabus and completely different from the production version 1290 Super Duke R Evo, a round LED piece that contributes greatly to giving the bike a distinctive look.The wheels on which the bike moves are made by Brabus as well. They are of the Monoblock Z variety and both are sized at 17 inches. Wrapped in performance tires, they are supported by WP semi-active suspension.Whereas the engine is the stock one, the exhaust system is made by Brabus. The system ends in decorative gold rings around the mufflers. The shiny color is also used on the wheels, the badge on the fuel tank that reads "1 of 25," and the badge on the seat, it too an element added by the German tuner. As a touch of extra cool, when the bike starts, its TFT display lights up with special graphics.As said, KTM and Brabus will make just 50 of these babies. The production run is divided down the middle, with half of them to be offered in Onyx Black and the other half in Diamond White. The starting price for each of them is 41,930 euros, which is roughly $44,000 at today's exchange rates.For that, riders get the bike itself, but also a custom-made indoor cover, a floor mat, and a carbon box to hold the keys of the ride. The cherry on the cake, each buyer of the Brabus 1300 R Masterpiece Edition will get the chance to tour the Brabus facility in Bottrop, Germany, and witness engineering magic.Although high, the price is probably not something that will scare true fans away. We are now only left waiting to see how long it'll take for KTM to announce the special version is sold out. There is no mention as to when the motorcycle will become available for purchase, but chances are by the time you read this there will be no Brabus 1300 R Masterpiece Edition left to buy.The full list of Brabus elements that make the 1290 Super Duke R Evo an Austrian-German ride on steroids can be studied in the press release section below. EV AMG kW DCT Ever since it broke cover last November, the Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato has proved its mettle multiple times, most at the hands of those who bought one. Thus, from racing its direct rival from Porsche, the 911 Dakar , which is less powerful, to jumping high in the air and even being thrashed off the beaten path, name it, and it's been done.Now it is time to focus on one particular copy, which looks like the off-road supercar thrashed in the desert recently. Only this time, no dirt was kicked up, as it got a wash before posing for the camera. Images of it were uploaded to Vossen's social media channels, and the reason is the new wheelset. Called the LC3-01T, the alloys are the icing on the cake as far as this company is concerned.Available in diameters from 19 to 24 inches, they can be finished in one of 48 different hues, and they can be ordered from $2,400 per wheel in the smallest offering. They're not limited to Lamborghinis, as one Audi R8 also wears them, and so does a BMW M4 Coupe. Moreover, they boost the looks of other machines, including the GMC Hummer, Ram 1500 TRX, and Mercedes-G 63.Now, speaking of the icing on the cake, that would be the special wrap. Featuring a camo pattern, it decorates all body panels of this Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato , making it look like the redneck equivalent of a supercar. In a previous video that we covered, the owner said he would give this ride a twin-turbo conversion so that it can become even faster, regardless of the terrain it drives on.For now, however, it will have to make do with the stock V10. The naturally aspirated engine has a 5.2-liter displacement and produces 601 hp (610 ps/449) and 413 lb-ft (560 Nm) of torque. The model features all-wheel drive, a mechanically-controlled self-locking differential, and a seven-speed, and it takes 3.4 seconds to hit sixty-two mph (100 kph) from naught. The top speed is rated at 160 mph (260 kph).The Sterrato is the last Hurrah of the Huracan series, which is about to bite the dust. Lamborghini says the entire production run was sold, and they will continue making it until 2024 when they will discontinue it. A few months later, the automaker will give it a proper replacement in the form of a new plug-in hybrid supercar , which is currently being tested in the open. The Mercedes-Benz SL W113 went down in history as the iconic Pagoda. It was light, it screamed elegance, and made no compromise in terms of comfort despite its sporty nature. Now Everrati transplants an electric heart under that beautifully sculpted bonnet. ICE Photo: Everrati kWh Just 24 hours after introducing the all-electric Land Rover Defender , Everrati came up with the zero-emission Mercedes-Benz SL W113 'Pagoda,' so nicknamed because of the shape of its roof. A roof that now comes down on the French Riviera, where it is on display this week. The electric 'Pagoda' is the latest addition to the companys extensive portfolio of restored and re-powered models.This is a car that, back in the 1960s, was the celebrities' darling. John Lennon, Audrey Hepburn, and Tina Turner had the ultimate open top, two-seater. Today, former F1 driver David Coulthard and pop star Harry Styles brag about their own. It was, after all, one of the finest automobiles of its era, a tag that extends to our times.Restored, re-powered, and reinvented, the Mercedes-Benz SL W113 Pagoda keeps its impeccable design intact under a body painted in a deep shade of blue. Who would dare to mess with Paul Bracqs creation from the 1960s? Definitely not Everrati, because it is not in their DNA, since they claim that their purpose is "to preserve such masterpieces of automotive engineering and design."But what is in their DNA is mechanical heart transplant. That is how the SL turned from an-powered iconic automobile with an inline-six, with outputs ranging between 148 and 168 horsepower (150 - 170 PS) into a zero-emission vehicle with a chance to a more sustainable life. "It is fully futureproofed," says Everrati's co-founder and CEO Justin Lunny.At the company's bespoke facility in Upper Heyford, Oxfordshire, the Everrati experts pulled out the original engine of the 'Pagoda' and replaced it with an electric motor. They kept the specs under wraps until the very last minute before the official unveiling in Monaco.So, the classic comes with a 68-battery pack, which provides it with a range of approximately 200 miles (322 kilometers). An electric motor generates 300 horsepower (304 PS) for a run from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 kph) in 7 seconds. Top speed is now of 124 mph (200 kph).There are seats wrapped in leather on board, and the tachometer was converted into a power meter.The model made its public debut at the Fairmont Monte Carlo during the Monaco Yacht Show, which has just started on the French Riviera. That is where Everrati has also taken the former Land Rover Defender, now Shore Tender electric off-roader.Furthermore, all throughout the event, Everrati will be chauffeuring VIP guests around the principality of Monaco in one of their latest creations: the Land Rover Series IIA. Reborn automaker Fisker returned with a bang. Not only did it launch the Ocean crossover SUV with a lot of cool features, but it has also kept two essential promises: it made 5,000 limited-edition copies of the unit until the end of September, and it accurately measured the maximum possible range of the Ocean One and Extreme. Now, it's the Ultra that goes under the microscope. SUV EV Photo: Fisker Photo: Fisker kW Fisker launched the Ocean in a fully loaded, limited-edition trim called "One." Fret not; there was a solution envisioned for you, too! Prospective customers who didn't want to be among the early adopters were able to buy a somewhat similar version by choosing the Extreme spec . It had almost the same configuration apart from some badges, the 22-inch wheels, and the MaliBlu interior upholstery.But now that the Ocean One is reaching well over 1,000 people in the US, Canada, and Europe, the positive feedback from those already driving theis influencing others to consider getting Fisker's exciting vehicle with a bunch of cool quirks. That will only amplify as time passes because the 5,000 limited-edition SUVs are built and awaiting shipment or some final touches before they can be handed to buyers.However, the Ocean Extreme, with its 360 miles of range, has a starting cost of $68,999 and is not on the list of vehicles that qualify for thetax credit. Understandably, most Americans looking for a non-Tesla EV could be inclined to consider the Ocean Ultra. After all, the automaker says it comes with 340 miles of range, an all-wheel drive system that can disconnect the rear axle to improve efficiency, and a couple of useful features. It misses the heated and ventilated seats, though!Its cost starts from $49,999 and includes the non-revolving 17.1-inch center touchscreen, digital rearview mirror, power liftgate, the premium sound+ sound system, and California mode that automatically opens all the windows, including the rear windshield and the sunroof.Fisker said the Ocean Ultra comes with 340 miles of range. It got this result by respecting the EPA methodology, which is to charge the battery to 100% and run the car multiple times in a lab at various speeds until it depletes the energy storage unit. Then, the results are crunched, and we get a final figure.But Canada's Natural Resources agency, which also publishes fuel consumption reports, says the Ocean Ultra can do 563 km on a single charge, which equals 350 mi. That's 10 mi more than what Fisker anticipates.However, that extra 10 miles could directly result from the testing procedure. Technicians run the vehicles at average city speeds of 34 kph (21 mph) for a little over half an hour. When it comes to highway testing, the average speed increases to 78 kph (48 mph). That's not very helpful, considering that most highway speed limits in the US are set to 70 mph (113 kph) or higher.Thus, we will have to wait for the official EPA numbers. But even those aren't very useful. In a real-life scenario, nobody will charge to 100% and drive until the battery reaches its buffer.However, it's still great news for Fisker and its prospective Ocean Ultra customers. A practical EV with around 340 to 350 miles of range that can charge at a rate of up to 250could be an excellent lease option.We're saying that because the reborn brand plans to switch to the NACS port in 2025, which coincides with the automaker's plans to release the PEAR and the Alaska pickup truck. On top of that, leasing allows the brand to apply the EV tax credit and transfer it to the customer. So, renting long-term is a win-win for everyone.The Alaska and PEAR should be manufactured in the US, depending on Fisker's agreement with Foxconn. It is not a done deal yet.Finally, be aware that Fisker is apparently planning to put its advanced driver-assistance system behind a paywall that can be unlocked via a subscription. If you need such features, make sure to ask the brand about this plan before signing the buyer's agreement or the lease. Why did Dodge downsize the Polara? Well, it turns out it happened after Chrysler's president overheard and misunderstood Chevrolet boss Ed Cole to have said the company's largest cars would be downsized for 1962. Dodge rushed to develop a smaller Polara to compete with what was supposed to be a shorter full-size Chevy, only to discover that GM did not shrink its full-size cars.Due to this mistake, both Dodge and Plymouth sold full-size cars that were smaller than their Chevrolet and Ford competitors for a few months. Dodge fixed this issue by rushing the Custom 880 (a Chrysler Newport with a Polara front end) into production in early 1962.On top of being a midsize born by mistake, the 1962-to-1964 Polara was also viewed as an awkward-looking automobile at the time. As a result, it wasn't very popular and moved only 37,311 units in three years. For reference, its B-body twin, the Plymouth Fury, sold 243,612 examples over the same period.To many, the second-generation Polara isn't worth remembering, but I beg to differ. That's mainly because I'm actually a big fan of the car's so-called weird design. More importantly, the midsize version is the only iteration of the Polara that included a full-fledged muscle car version. You see, it was one of the very few Mopars that got the Max Wedge engine.A spiritual predecessor to the more iconic HEMI, the Max Wedge was introduced in 1962. Originally a 413-cubic-inch (6.8-liter) mill, it debuted with 410 or 420 horsepower on tap, depending on the compression ratio. In 1963, Chrysler increased displacement to 426 cubic inches (7.0 liters), and power rose to 415 and 425 horses. The latter version was just as potent as the HEMI that followed in 1965.Developed specifically for drag racing, the Max Wedge found its way into a few streetable production models, mainly for homologation purposes. There's no info on how many Polaras got the beefed-up unit, but the consensus is Dodge sold fewer than 10 of them each model year. All told, it's quite a rare gem.But don't worry if you haven't seen one yet. These cars don't pop up at local car shows (or public auctions) too often. Chances are most of us we'll never see one. But if you're a fan of the midsize Polara like I am, this 1964 example will quench your thirst for Mopar awesomeness. Because this white and seemingly harmless Dodge packs a monster V8 under the hood.Spotted at the Music City Mopar 2023 show in Nashville, Tennessee, this Polara 500 ditched its production mill (which wasn't a Max Wedge) for a built and blown HEMI. It's unclear which shop made this shiny lump, but it looks similar to the 572-cubic-inch HEMI currently available from companies like Nelson Racing Engines or Ray Barton Racing Engines.These mills cost as much as stock 1964 Polara in Concours condition, rev up to 7,000 rpm, and generate anywhere from 800 to more than 1,000 horsepower. That's right, "incredible" doesn't even begin to cover it.But don't let that monstrous, gas-gulping V8 fool you; this Polara is fully streetable otherwise. It looks completely stock apart from the massive blower popping through the front hood, while the interior is just as restrained save for some aluminum inserts in the dashboard. And boy, is it beautiful with that white striping over red upholstery and door panels.Our host says it's an award-winning car, which doesn't surprise me. The paint is flawless, the chrome trim shines like new, and the perfect panel gaps suggest this Mopar went through a frame-off restoration before it got the blown HEMI. Check it out in the video below. Lamborghini calls the Urus a 'super SUV.' Nobody can blame them for it. But what would be the most appropriate name for it after it drives out of the ABT workshop with extra oomph and head-turning looks? The German tuners found just the right designation. 12 photos Photo: ABT Universal Hydrogen hit a milestone in terms of pre-orders. Also, it launched a two-year flight test campaign on its way to obtaining formal certification for retrofitted aircraft. America's Aerospace Valley (the Antelope Valley region in southern California) is making way for technologies that will usher in a new era of green flights. One of the most promising ones is a conversion kit for regional aircraft based on a fuel cell electric powertrain paired with innovative hydrogen capsules. The kit's developer, Universal Hydrogen, has secured an impressive number of orders so far for its game-changing solution.The Californian company recently celebrated the 250th order for its aircraft conversion kit. It's not just a matter of numbers but also an impressive value. The company's current order book is worth more than $1 billion, and that's not all. It also adds $2 billion in fuel services revenue, which the company will get in its first ten years of operation.That's because Universal Hydrogen doesn't just retrofit existing aircraft but also ensures hydrogen fuel services for each unit. What sets it apart from other hydrogen aviation companies is that the retrofit package also comes with a modular fuel system.The fuel cell electric powertrain effectively replaces current turboprop engines. So far, its been adapted for the ATR72 and the De Havilland Canada Dash-8 regional aircraft. Along with the new powertrain, these airplanes also get modular hydrogen capsules in the rear of the fuselage.The unique advantage of the Universal Hydrogen capsules is that they can be used with standard cargo handling equipment. This means that the capsules are transported from the production site to the airport and then simply loaded into the aircraft using the existing airport equipment. In other words, there's no need for dedicated infrastructure, which saves a lot of money and time in terms of certification. The company's next major goal is to obtain the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) certification for the production configuration of the Dash-8 retrofitted with its conversion kit.To get there, Universal Hydrogen embarked on a two-year campaign . During this time, it plans to optimize the powertrain further. The improved version will boast new hardware, including a custom-made, aviation-grade turbocompressor. This will enable the retrofitted aircraft to reach flights at 25,000 feet (7,620 meters), which is the Dash-8's operating ceiling.The inaugural flight for this campaign lasted 20 minutes. The aircraft reached 5,000 feet (1,524 meters) and then made a few passes over the airport. During this time, the fuel cell powertrain was operated at full power in order to measure its exact noise level.Earlier this year, the Californian company conducted the first flight of a 40-seat aircraft retrofitted with its fuel cell system. The aircraft, nicknamed Lightning McClean, claimed to be the largest airplane to run mainly on hydrogen.The first ATR 72 aircraft retrofitted with the Universal Hydrogen system are expected to enter commercial service in 2025. Originally twinned with the fifth-gen 7 Series, the Ghost was redesigned on the so-called Architecture of Luxury in 2020 for the 2021 model year. Technically different from the BMW CLAR platform, the aluminum spaceframe also underpins the Phantom, fully electric Spectre, and Cullinan. Photo: Florin Profir | Autoevolution Gifted with squeaky plastics despite starting at $350k for the 2023 model year, the Ghost has been hit with a safety recall. A grand total of 1,305 units produced for the 2021 through 2023 model years are called back over their instrument cluster's tempered glass.The single-layer tempered glass is prone to break into small (and somewhat sharp) pieces in a crash, thus increasing the risk of injury to the driver. According to documents filed with the federal watchdog, the part number for said component is 9496735. Supplied by Schroeder Spezialglas of Germany, the single-layer tempered glass will be addressed by dealers nationwide with a protecting coating. Rolls-Royce dealers nationwide will be informed of this recall no later than October 16. Owners will follow suit on or about November 13 via first-class mail. According to the British automaker, the suspect vehicle population features production dates ranging from February 17, 2020 through December 8, 2022.BMW became aware of this condition more than three years ago. Back in May 2020, the Bavarian automaker conducted a high-speed crash test which concluded with the instrument cluster's tempered glass breaking on impact. Subsequent tests determined a very low risk of injury for the driver.Even so, further evaluations were undertaken, with BMW eventually deciding to change from single-layer tempered glass to double-layer laminated glass in April 2022. This change was implemented into vehicle production in December 2022. Be that as it may, BMW revisited the concern in March 2023.After reassessing the matter, the Munich-based automaker decided to recall said luxury sedans out of an abundance of caution. Reading between the lines, that should be read as out of fear of a lawsuit.What is particularly surprising is that BMW preferred to apply a coating to the suspect glass panel instead of replacing it with the redesigned glass panel. Kind of cheap on their part, and pretty startling as well. After all, this is a hugely expensive car that slots well above the seventh-generation 7 Series.The Ghost comes with the BMW-developed N74 twin-turbo V12 of its predecessor, although revised for this application. The 6.75-liter colossus hiding underhood makes 563 horsepower and 627 pound-feet (850 Nm) from the outset. Level up to the Black Badge, and the numbers are 591 hp and 664 pound-feet (900 Nm).Rolls-Royce broke its annual sales record in 2022, delivering 6,021 vehicles to clients in roughly 50 countries. The Ghost was especially popular in the Asia-Pacific region, although the Cullinan is the best-selling Roller of the bunch due to its more practical form factor and higher ground clearance. You can't have it all in life, and a camper trailer is not the place to start trying. When it comes to finding the compromise solution when shopping for a new camper trailer, it all boils down to a choice between features and weight. Photo: PeeWee Campers Photo: PeeWee Campers Photo: PeeWee Campers Photo: PeeWee Campers In much simpler words, you can choose extra features for extra comfort, which will add to the size and weight of your towable, limit your range and access, and require a new towing vehicle. Or, you can choose a more compact towable , in which case you'll be compromising on comfort.Faced with incredible demand from newbie travelers looking to get a taste of adventure and see what the current frenzy is all about, some manufacturers try to pack the most features in the same compact footprint. Others are thinking outside of the box with a creative approach that sees new types of towables struggling to make it to the market.PeeWee Campers is keeping it simple. "We believe this is the best teardrop camper on the market" might seem like a statement that contradicts the childish wink in the company's name, but the Half Pint is meant to be just that: a peewee camper that offers the basics as standard but could be rigged as the perfect companion on your wildest adventure.PeeWee Campers is an all-American company working out of Nashville, TN, with the stated goal of delivering small, lightweight, and highly versatile solutions for campers at affordable prices. These solutions range from the smallest towable, the Small Fry travel trailer that you could tow with a motorcycle, to the larger and newer Big Tripper.The Half Pint was introduced to the lineup in 2016 and remains, to this day, the company's most popular model. Given their promise of delivering a towable ready to go camping when you drive it off the lot but also highly customizable should you need it to be more, we'd say its mission accomplished.The Half Pint is described as a teardrop trailer , though its sharper edges and angular design seem to work against this classification. On the bright side, they also allow for more space inside, which means you can turn it into whatever your dream camper is even if that means an off-grid, off-road machine you can rely on no matter what.The standard Half Pint is 12.5 feet (3.81 meters) long, 6.8 feet (2 meters) wide, and 5.6 feet (1.7 meters) high, with a ground clearance of 13.5 inches (34.2 cm) standard. It rides on 15-inch wheels clad in 15-inch 6-ply tires, upgradable to off-road ones if you supply them.The trailer frame is heavy-duty welded square tube steel with laminated aluminum walls and a Dexter axle with a supported weight of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). The trailer itself is as light as 900 lbs (408 kg) in standard spec, which means you can tow it with your daily, even if it's a VW Beetle. The company promises support in offering the real towing weight of most vehicles available on the American market before committing to a purchase.The standard unit is, as the headline notes, a blank canvas. It's imagined as the basic package for a fixed price but adaptable to upgrades if the budget allows it.The basic spec includes a 2-inch ball front receiver hitch and a jack with wheel, so you can move the trailer into position by hand if need be, 120V outlets, two access doors on either side with screens, fenders and exterior trim with diamond plate, lights, step plates or exterior shelves welded to the frame, and windows.PeeWee Campers says you can take the Half Pint camping as soon as you drive off the lot, but that entails you owning all the camping equipment already, down to the queen-size mattress that fits inside and comfortably sleeps two adults. Available interior space is 39.3 square feet (3.65 square meters) standard, reduced to 31 square feet (2.87 square meters) if you opt for the galley in the rear.If you don't own camping gear yet, they can provide it for you. Optionals range from a rear galley, small but more than enough for the basic needs of a couple of adventurers for a few days, double rear doors, an extra wall to separate the kitchen from the living space, additional windows, roof rack and fans, TV, extra storage boxes, and complete solar packages. You can even opt for customized graphics since they no longer offer color options as they did several years ago.PeeWee Campers promises that the Half Pint isn't just versatile, lightweight , and affordable but also "one of the sturdiest teardrop campers built." Based on their feedback online, their customers proud members of the PeeWee Campers community agree wholeheartedly.The RV market is feeling overcrowded these days, but it's always good to have options. And the Half Pint is putting on an excellent case when vying for your attention. We love feel-good stories here, especially when they involve classic American muscle cars that had been sidelined for decades only to gain a new lease on life. This 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 is a perfect example of that, since at one point the car was left stationary for no fewer than 20 years. Photo: Bring a Trailer Having to keep your car parked long-term is very unfortunate, especially when it involves a first-generation Mach 1, easily one of the greatest Mustangs of all time.This specification was introduced in 1969, featuring a wide range of powertrain options to go with its distinctive styling features, such as the reflective striping, pop-open gas cap, dual exhaust outlets, matte-black hood, chin spoiler, NASCAR-style cable and pin tiedowns, rear wing, rear window louvers, plus a functional shaker hood scoop available as an option.These Mustangs were ultra nice inside as well, compared to lesser variants. It wouldnt take you long to realize just how special of a car this is this is as true now as it was back in the late 60s, or any other decade for that matter.To a lot of folks, the 1969 Mach 1 is almost the quintessential Mustang, and this particular one, which is currently getting auctioned off to the highest bidder, is wearing what is almost the quintessential Mach 1 color, Black Jade.Seriously now, what other color would you rather see this car in? Roughly 10% of all 1969 Mustang wore this color, and as you can see, Black Jade isnt so much a black as it is green. I wonder how many customers suddenly had this realization, either in the showroom or after taking delivery.Anyway, this black was only green for a year, before Ford decided to rename this color Dark Ivy Green Metallic, in order to clear up any confusion. And yes, Raven Black is another amazing Mustang Mach 1 colorway. No argument there.So then, what else is special about this car? For starters, its been refurbished after its 20-year hiatus, with the hood, fenders and doors getting replaced. The passenger-side door actually had to be replaced after another vehicle backed into it the horror.Other noteworthy visual traits and features include the 14-inch steel wheels with 225/70 Mastercraft Avenger G/T tires, black vinyl front bucket seats, a Sport Deck rear seat, a Custom Autosound Slidebar radio with Bluetooth, floor-mounted center console, heater, and a tilt-away steering wheel.In terms of performance, the car is powered by an overhauled 351 ci Windsor V8 engine, working alongside a replacement intake manifold, four-barrel carburetor (installed in 2021), and a three-speed automatic transmission. We should also note the Thrush glasspack mufflers for the dual exhaust system and the presence of power steering and power-assisted front brakes.Keep in mind that this Mustang is currently registered in Connecticut, which doesnt require a title for vehicles that are this old. 28 September 2023 08:30 (UTC+04:00) Qabil Ashirov Read more The local anti-terrorist measures that have been ongoing in Azerbaijan for a long time have finally yielded the greatest results. On September 27, Armenian-born Russian oligarch Ruben Vardanyan was detained in Azerbaijan when he tried illegally and covertly to cross the Lachin Border Checkpoint. It is worth noting that he was born in an ordinary Soviet family in Armenia and after school, he went to Moscow for higher education. In Moscow, he made his fortune and became one the richest men not only in Armenia but also in CIS countries. Many believe that he became a billionaire through some criminal affairs, especially since his name is linked with money laundering. Besides, he was one of the patrons who illegally invested in the formerly occupied territories of Azerbaijan and was a supporter of the separatist gang in Khankendi. When the Ukrainian War broke out, the Western countries started to impose sanctions on the Russian oligarchs. To evade the sanctions, Ruben Vardanyan denounced Russian citizenship and illegally came to Garabagh. Soon, he became the minister of state in the so-called republic. Many believed that he was parachuted into the position because Moscow plans to replace Pashinyan with him. It should be mentioned that he was an ardent separatist and after his arrival, separatism in Azerbaijan's Garabagh gained further motivation. But the fate of the criminal millionaire brought him to Baku in handcuffs... Former diplomat, professor Farid Shafiyev told Azernews that the separatist Vardanyan is guilty of several very serious felonies - breaches of Azerbaijan's criminal code, actions against Azerbaijan's constitutional order and against Azerbaijan's territorial integrity, participation in illegal armed groups, and several other crimes. I think a more detailed, more legal analysis will be given by the Prosecutor General Office and other relevant authorities. However, it is important that justice is delivered. People should know that criminals and warlords, who are guilty of destroying Azerbaijanis' lives, jeopardizing security, and threatening national security will be punished. That is an important point, he said. Farid Shafiyev pointed out that the detention of Ruben indeed serves as a lesson to other warlords and criminals. I think Azerbaijan will be chasing and persecuting other war criminals. As for amnesty, he mentioned that Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev spoke about the amnesty in May and that was the offer prior to the Anti-terrorist activities. During and after the Anti-terrorist Activities, the Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration Hikmet Hajiyev also said that those who surrender will be given amnesty. I think amnesty will be given to the persons who surrender; to those who express remorse and a sort of excuse for openly taking arms and acting against Azerbaijan's sovereignty and integrity. We have never heard such kind of behavior from Ruben Vardanyan up until the latest moment. If I am not mistaken, even yesterday he gave an interview on the France 24 news channel and spoke against Azerbaijan's territorial integrity. Thus, I think that he will be brought to the trial, he added. To recall, Armenia invaded Garabagh and seven adjacent districts in the First Garabagh War in the 1990s. During the First Garabagh War Armenian armed groups committed massacres in different residential areas such as Khojaly, Meshali, etc., and expelled 750,000 people from their hometowns. The war stopped in 1994 and from that time Azerbaijan conducted negotiations to resolve the war peacefully. However, due to the Armenian maximalist approaches the negotiations reached a deadlock. To top it all off, the Armenian side attacked Azerbaijan in September 2020 and Azerbaijan was obliged to conduct the counter-offensive military operations that called the Second Garabagh War or the 44-day War. The Second Garabagh War lasted 44 days and finished with the Russian-brokered November 10 declaration. Azerbaijan liberated most of its invaded territories, except Khankendi and a few districts. According to the provisions of the Declaration, the Armenians in Khankendi should have handed over their weapons, the reintegration process between Azerbaijan and Armenian residents in Garabagh should have started and Azerbaijani IDPs should have returned to their hometowns. However, after several months the Armenian side commenced to violate the provisions and commit provocations and sabotage against Azerbaijan. It is worth noting that the arrival of Ruben Vardan at Khankendi played a big role in this process. As a result, Azerbaijan once again was obliged to start anti-terrorist activities on September 19, 2023. The anti-terror activities lasted less than a day and the Armenian armed groups accepted Azerbaijan's condition to hand over their weapons. --- Qabil Ashirov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @g_Ashirov Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 28 September 2023 15:00 (UTC+04:00) Rena Murshud Read more Unlike Armenia, which openly expresses its hatred towards Azerbaijan, Iran has been secretly pursuing a policy of double standards against Baku for more than 100 years. Although it played the role of a so-called brotherly country on the face, it always showed its support to Armenia in the very crucial moments. The countless successes of Azerbaijan recently: both the successful implementation of local anti-terrorist measures and the opening of the Igdir-Nakhchivan gas pipeline with Turkiye were probably not favorable for Iran. Also, the issue of the reintegration of Garabagh Armenians, which is currently on the agenda, has started to worry Iran a little more. Another reason for Iran's concern is economic perspectives in the South Caucasus. Thus, the opening of the Zangazur Corridor looks like a deep fiasco for Iran. The interesting issue is that Iran is currently silent on the events. But I wonder what hidden moments are behind this silence? "Actually, Iran has not remained silent about the events. Rather, it has to remain silent. Because Iran has always not been able to take on Azerbaijan, nor its allies like Turkiye and Israel." These words were told by a South Azerbaijani researcher-writer Mohammad Rahmanifar, in a comment to AZERNEWS. According to him, Iran has always openly expressed its support for Armenia. Also, Tehran placed more hope in Moscow in the realization of many of its regional dreams. Iran thought that Russia would always be with Armenia. But Russia's neutral approach overturned all Iran's plans. "Regarding the first days of the second Garabagh war, Iranian officials invited Azerbaijan and Armenia to negotiations for peace. In this matter, Iran's wish was for Russia to intervene and protest in this matter. However, it seems that Iran's expectations from Russia were in vain. For this reason, Iran currently feels alone in the square. On the one hand, the support of Turkiye, Israel, and other countries to Azerbaijan, and on the other hand, the lack of any partner and supporter of its own made Iran remain silent. In fact, a few days ago, Iran appealed to Azerbaijan "feeling sorry" for the so-called plight of Armenians living in Garabagh and put forward the protection of their human rights. However, as the processes continue, more interesting points about Iran are emerging. Instead of protecting the human rights of the South Azerbaijanis living under the regimes oppression, Iran cares about a handful of Armenians living in Garabagh," the researcher-writer added. The expert noted that another issue that silences Iran is related to South Azerbaijanis living in the historical lands of Azerbaijan. "We also witnessed the crowd of South Azerbaijanis during the Second Garabagh war. They did not remain silent in support of their compatriots living on the north side. Otherwise, maybe Iran would repeatedly try to intervene militarily against Azerbaijan," the expert noted. According to Mohammad Rahmanifar, Iran's biggest concern at the moment is the Zangazur Corridor. As a reason, the expert said that if this corridor is opened, Azerbaijan's dependence on Iran will stop once and for all. Because currently, when crossing from Azerbaijan to Nakhchivan, one is passing through territories that are historically considered to be Azerbaijani lands, but politically considered to be the border of Iran. Iran's desire is to make this dependence permanent, to make Azerbaijan "needy". As for the Iranian-Armenian border crossing with Zangazur, Rahmanifar said that the issue of building a certain bridge for it is still uncertain. Therefore, Iran is very worried. In conclusion, the expert said that the Russian-Ukrainian war, the political and economic strengthening of Azerbaijan, and the orientation of Armenia to the West have overturned all the plans of Iran. On the other hand, although the role of Iran in the Silk Road project was wider, the opening of the Zangazur Corridor only made it possible for the Turkic states to make sufficient investments here. All that is left for Iran is to provoke and finance terrorist groups. Just as the Armenian side, which did the same, but was successfully defeated within less than a day as a result of local anti-terrorist measures. --- Rena Murshud is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @RenaTagiyeva Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 28 September 2023 20:55 (UTC+04:00) Abbas Ganbay Read more Azerbaijan and China discussed the specific steps to strengthen cooperation in the direction of the development of the Middle Corridor, Azernews reports, citing a post on X by the Azerbaijani Digital Development and Transport Minister Rashad Nabiyev. The post reads: "During the visit to China, we met with the leadership of the Railway Administration. We discussed the development of cooperation between the two countries in the field of railways. Specific steps were identified to strengthen cooperation between the countries in the direction of increasing freight turnover with China and the development of the Middle Corridor. Azerbaijan and China discussed five concrete steps to strengthen cooperation in the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, also known as the Middle Corridor. This route is an important transport artery that will contribute to the development of trade and economic relations between the two countries. Besides, the training of pilots and the organization of training for this purpose was also discussed between Azerbaijan and China. Cin sfr zaman olknin aviasiya siyastini formalasdran Cin Mulki Aviasiya Administrasiyasnn rhbri Sonq Jiyonqla gorusduk. Olklr arasnda mkdaslgn inkisaf, o cumldn pilotlarn hazrlanmas, tlimlrin tskili haqqnda dansdq. Rashad Nabiyev (@RashadNNabiyev) September 28, 2023 --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 28 September 2023 02:23 (UTC+04:00) Elnur Enveroglu Read more We are in Konya - the city that hides the secrets of history under its fertile soil. Our journey continues... This city, distinguished by its antiquity and preserving all cultures as a treasure, is not limited to the Seljuk history. Called Kawana in the Hittite period, the city was also called Kaoania in the Phrygian and Luwian periods. However, on this trip, we visited Catalhoyuk a settlement of Cumra district, which is about 52 km from the center of Konya city. Catalhoyuk is a very large Neolithic and Chalcolithic Age settlement in Central Anatolia, which was inhabited about the 9th millennium BC. The name Catalhoyuk also stands for two independent words catal which is fork and hoyuk is a living place. It is because the town is shaped like a fork in a birds-eye view. It consists of two settlements side by side in the east and west directions. The settlement in the east, called Catalhoyuk (East), was inhabited in the Neolithic Age, and the settlement in the west, called Catalhoyuk (West), was inhabited in the Chalcolithic Age. Both of the towns within Catalhoyuk were discovered by Western archeologists James Mellart, David French, and his colleagues in 1958. It is located in a wheat field overlooking the Konya Plain, approximately 136 kilometers away from Hasandag, 11 km north of Cumra district. The place we visited was then renovated and all the conditions for visitors were quite convenient. Built with wood the building took us along a corridor with cells each one of which had presentation boards equipped with some cutting-edge technology. Each board speaks to you upon your request by pushing a button for specific information. A cozy and compact library gives you another pleasant atmosphere with a number of books taking you to ancient history and delving into the depth of science. Through the backdoor, the route takes you to the mounds where archaeologists discover ancient homes way of life of inhabitants. This is the symbol of the goddess Cybele (or known as the inscription Matar Kubeleya at a Phrygian rock-cut shrine), the ancient source of belief and the highest deity of the Phrygian people living in ancient Catalhoyuk. According to historical data, the ancient people who lived here in about the sixth century BC worshipped a fat seated female goddess. Being fat was important for ancient Phrygians at that time, by the way. Until that time, people worshipped wild animals such as calves, leopards, and lions that they could not hunt. But over time, as the human race invented weapons and could hunt wild animals, they then gave up the outdated belief. In front of us are houses excavated from an ancient mound. At that time, as can be seen, houses were built with walls adjacent to each other. The reason was to protect from attacks of wild animals. The houses did not have doors, people used to enter their houses by climbing a ladder. And mostly children used to be victims of wild animals. When you look inside the houses, you can clearly see that people buried their dead under the house at that time. However, the corpses were initially kept in a specially designated place until their flesh was eaten by vultures and wild birds. They buried the bones of the dead in their homes. During the trip, our tour guide Mehmet Donmez once again shared some valuable historical information with AZERNEWS. Your browser doesn't support video. Please download the file: video/mp4 On the way back to Konya from Catalhoyuk, we stopped for lunch at an interesting place. We tasted the delicious dishes of the Sultan Somati restaurant, one of the most mysterious corners of Konya, the city of Sultans and Sufis. Indeed, the service was worthy of sultans, and the table was rich with the light and blessings of Hazrat Maulana. From the design of the restaurant to its cuisine, it was completely authentic. In short, it is useless to say a word without visiting this place and tasting delicious food. For now, we are in Konya with the organizational support of the Turkish Ministry of Culture, and if you aspire to explore more interesting places, stay with us Exclusive by Elnur Enveroglu from Konya --- Elnur Enveroglu is AzerNews deputy editor-in-chief, follow him on @ElnurMammadli1 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 28 September 2023 13:50 (UTC+04:00) On 28 September, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov received US Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Yuri Kim, Azernews reports, citing FM. The meeting discussed the current situation in the region after Azerbaijan's anti-terrorist activites, as well as issues of humanitarian aid. Previously, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received Samantha Power, Special Representative of the US President, Administrator of the US Agency for International Development (USAID), Yuri Kim, Acting Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, and Louis Bono, Senior Advisor for Caucasus Negotiations at the US Department of State. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 28 September 2023 23:30 (UTC+04:00) Abbas Ganbay Read more Azerbaijani scientists living in foreign countries will take part in the 74th International Astronautical Congress to be held in Baku on 2-6 October, Azernews reports, citing Diaspora. Diaspora noted that the participants are the head of the hydrogen energy group at the Solar Energy Centre from the University of Central California. Dr. Nazim, professor of Istanbul Trade University Abdullah Sofiyev, the famous scientist in the field of mechanics and aerospace engineering Chingiz Hajiyev, professor of the Faculty of Aeronautics and Astronautics of Istanbul Technical University Esmira Bayramova, and so on. They were selected according to the list submitted by the State Committee for Diaspora Relations. Regular contact with the scientists has been established, and the scientific articles presented by them gave Azerbaijanis the right to speak at the 74th International Astronautical Congress. It should be noted that Azerbaijan won the right to host the International Astronautical Congress in 2023. It is of great symbolic significance that 50 years ago Azerbaijan again hosted the International Astronautical Congress held in Baku in 1973 under the leadership of National Leader Heydar Aliyev. IAC 2023 will provide an opportunity for the international space community to come together and explore the latest developments in the field of space. The theme of the event is Global Challenges and Opportunities: Give Space a Chance and will offer a unique platform to establish strong collaborations and reach a diverse international audience. The IAC 2023 will also be a chance for guests and participants to experience the culture and hospitality of Azerbaijan. The nation has put in comprehensive and consistent efforts to deliver the best IAC experience for the participants and the guests of the country. A variety of state authorities, government bodies, and other institutions have contributed to the process. This will be the second time that Azerbaijan has hosted the IAC, the first being in 1973. This edition of IAC is coupled with unique exposure to an emerging market, first-hand experience of the unmatched Azerbaijani hospitality, genuine cultural immersion, and the diverse charms of this beautiful country. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 28 September 2023 18:33 (UTC+04:00) President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has visited the Jabrayil district. The head of state laid a foundation stone for an administrative building in the city of Jabrayil. Special Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Jabrayil, Gubadli and Zangilan districts Vahid Hajiyev briefed the head of state on the work to be done. Under the master plan, the administrative building will be built in the business zone in the 1-hectare area. The project provides for construction of four buildings. The first phase will see the construction of a 4-5 storey complex of two buildings connected by a bridge. Another 3-4 storey buildings will be constructed in the second phase. President Ilham Aliyev laid a foundation stone for the administrative building. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Karting fans will be happy to know that the Bahrain International Karting Circuit (BIKC) will host the thrilling and competitive Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals (RMCGF) from Dec. 2 to Dec. 9. The tournament will feature over 400 karting drivers from more than 60 countries. The competition will feature eight different categories, which include the Micro MAX, the Mini MAX, the Junior MAX, the Senior MAX, the MAX DD2, the MAX DD2 Masters, the E20 Senior, and the E20 Senior Masters. This is not the first time the RMCGF is being hosted in Bahrain! The competition was previously held at the BIKC in 2021. If you're a karting enthusiast, then book your tickets for the Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals! Image source: @rotaxkarting Instagram page Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. Evan Milligan, who won a Supreme Court ruling for Black Alabamian voters, says he was initially skeptical about the legal battle. Washington, D.C. Evan Milligan, executive director of Alabama Forward and lead plaintiff in the Supreme Court case that won, for the second time, a ruling in support of Black voters in Alabama, says he was initially skeptical about devoting his agencys resources to the legal battle. At a Sept. 21 panel of voting rights advocates convened by the Transformative Justice Coalition to discuss the Alabama case, he explained that Black Alabamians had surged to 27 percent of the states population. By limiting African Americans to a single district out of seven for the state, the plaintiffs in Allen v. Milligan had argued, the state legislature was attempting to dilute the voting rights of Black voters in clear violation of the Voting Rights Act. In June 2023 the Supreme Court concurred, mandating that the states Republican governor and Republican-dominated legislature redraw its map. When the second map was found by the court to be discriminatory as well, a special master appointed by a federal district court judge was assigned to craft a new map. The Supreme Court declined the states request to use a map that includes only one Black district. As much as this story is about race and the law, its also a very interesting story about faith and the power of belief, Milligan said. He noted that human beings, particularly when facing great obstacles, may settle for a compromise that falls short of what justice demands. Thats where I started. The elephant in the room for Alabama Forward and its coalition allies was: Why seek a remedy to electoral disenfranchisement from a Supreme Court that, in most cases, had shown itself hostile to minority voting rights? The answer, Milligan recalled, came from coalition members themselves, particularly Black and Asian women. Here is the Voting Rights Act, it may not look like much right now. It may be weak and a shell of what it used to be but theres life in it and we dont walk away from that. Too many people in our state died and gave everything they had to give birth to it, to protect it, to keep it alive just a little while longer, Milligan said. And we stand with that until they force it out of our arms, publicly and on the record for all of history and the world to see. Shalela Dowdy, another lead plaintiff in Allen v. Milligan who spoke at the convening, said her legislatures violation of the VRA was no surprise given Alabamas long and sordid history of Black voter suppression. We already knew theyre going to suppress the Black vote. And the second map? A slap in the face to Black Alabamians, Dowdy exclaimed. Alex Aronson, executive director of Court Accountability, observed that Alabamas defiance of the Supreme Court is nearly unprecedented in our states and nations history. He attributed that defiance, in no small measure, to an estimated $600 million of dark money that has been invested through the years toward impeding voting rights in America. Rather than viewing the Alabamas legislatures map-drawing fiasco as an aberration or independent action, it should be seen as part of an orchestrated campaign directed by the Federalist Society and its partisan allies, he argued. Cliff Albright, co-founder and executive director of Black Voters Matter, contended that the 1965 passage of the Voting Rights Act would have been unnecessary had states upheld the 15th Amendment which enshrines the constitutional right to vote regardless of race. Albright urged young people attending the session to study American history and understand that the current legal conflict over redistricting in Alabama is consistent with its former Gov. George Wallaces historic pronouncement: Segregation today, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever. Rev. Jim Wallis, director of the Faith and Justice Center at Georgetown University, posited that America is at a crossroads. Its about whether this nation will make a choice between a genuine multi-racial democracy for the future of our country or whether its going to continue to be a land as the Doctrine of Discovery said ordained by God for white Europeans. The Doctrine of Discovery, Wallis explained, was launched in the 1490s with papal bulls and legal concepts that gave white European nations the right to conquer any land they chose in undiscovered lands in America. Wallis contended that Americas internal and racial conflicts are coming to a crescendo with the election in 2024: Theres a whole lot of White Alabamians who dont want to give up on the idea that this land belongs to them. After questions from audience members, Barbara Arnwine, president and founder of Transformative Justice Coalition, closed the session with a rousing challenge to attendees, especially TJC student activists. We have to step into the breech, said Arnwine. If you find the door closed, if people wont invite you to their party, throw your own party. Create your own organizations. Lets be very clear about this. TJC didnt exist ten years ago; nor did Black Voters Matters. Sometimes the best thing whats in your heart, thats driving you, that says it needs to exist and it doesnt exist give birth to it, said Arnwine. Set it loose and do what needs to be done. Nguon ethnicmediaservices Constant Killer Views at One Cannon Beach Legend: Oregon Coast Travel Tips Published 09/27/23 at 6:47 a.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Cannon Beach, Oregon) One spot on the north Oregon coast goes much deeper than you think when it comes to local history. It's not simply a legendary hotel with stellar amenities, going back generations: one where grandparents and even great grandparents talk of memorable stays. Indeed, the beginnings of Tolovana Inn go back to the beginnings of Cannon Beach, even if you can't see the original buildings anymore. While the Tolovana Inn was built in 1971, its genes go back to 1911. Yet the place doesn't stand still in time, either. It's growing and changing as well. Recent years have seen some changes again. Doug Nealeigh, president of Vacation Villages of America, Inc., which owns the inn, told Oregon Coast Beach Connection all the redo's kept with the coastal vibes that have been there since day one. That included new treatments for the stone fireplaces, new flooring and carpeting with luxury materials, all kinds of new paint, lighting and furniture. The reviews from customers have been more than a little positive, he said. The Tolovana Inn has killer views from all sides, even if not every unit is technically oceanfront. All buildings here face the Pacific or are right above it, and this is one dynamic area. Cannon Beach's Tolovana Beach is a different animal in the summer and winter. At night in warmer months, if conditions are right, it's not a bad spot to look for glowing sand (the bioluminescent phytoplankton that's been all the rage on social media in recent years). Those cajoling balconies, many a few stories up, come in more than a little handy when the lighter breezes blow or those Oregon coast sunsets explode. Storms fill up the access at Tolovana periodically Then, in winter, storms take to this beach like a madman. Some of the larger wave events slam against the areas just below the Tolovana Inn, making for jaw-dropping drama. There's a seawall here for a reason, and given the right conditions you'll get a front row seat to why. MORE ARTICLE BELOW It's all close to famed Haystack Rock hands down the most photographed part of the Oregon coast if not all of Oregon. From most of these balconies or patios, you can take in the surf action on that ancient chunk of basalt. You can see some of the action in the video taken from near the Tolovana Inn. One highlight here is an actual heated saltwater pool hearkening back to the old days of natatoriums on the coastline. Need to go for a winter swim in the ocean? Nope. But you can do that here. There are loads of other rather fancy amenities (see their site for full list), and while the place screams luxury it remains rather affordable for its class of hotel. 800-333-8890. 3400 S. Hemlock Street Cannon Beach, Oregon. www.TolovanaInn.com Going back in time to the '80s and '70s, you can see a distinctly different look to the Tolovana Inn, one that's delightfully vintage. Yet its roots go back much farther: the Inn sits on the site of the famed Warren Hotel, which was the first building in the burgeoning resort town of Tolovana a spot not yet part of what would eventually be Cannon Beach. It's a fascinating story that takes some interesting twists and turns. see Surprising Oregon Coast History: Cannon Beach's Tolovana Inn and Warren Hotel Hotels in Cannon Beach - Where to eat - Cannon Beach Maps and Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW 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 UPDATE: Coast Guard Ends Search for Woman Swept Away at Rialto Beach, Washington Coast Published 09/26/23 at 6:58 p.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Olympic Peninsula, Washington) UPDATE: US Coast Guard ended its search for the missing woman at the Washington coast's Rialto Beach. Approximately 5 p.m., a body washed up in Clallam County that was apparently the missing 26-year-old. Olympic National Park Rangers reported they had located the body of a deceased person matching the description of the missing woman, the Coast Guard said in a release. Coast Guard helicopter aircrews searched over five hours and covered 51 square miles of ocean and beach. ORIGINAL ARTICLE BELOW A 26-year-old woman is missing on a north Washington coast beach, bringing the US Coast Guard and other agencies into a frantic search in the waters off Rialto Beach in Clallam County. She was reportedly swept into the ocean at this notoriously rough beach and taken by currents. (Above: Rialto Beach, courtesy US Forest Service) Watchstanders at the Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound received the report about 10:50 a.m. Monday, with witnesses saying she was sucked into the surf by heavy waves. She is described as wearing a pink sweater and black pants. US Coast Guard officials launched two helicopters and one land search party, a search that is still considered active after dark. Other helicopter crews are involved as well, including one from the Oregon coast at Astoria. Other Coast Guard searchers include: an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Port Angeles; a land search party from Coast Guard Station Quillayute River; members of the Clallam County Sheriff's Office; a search and rescue team from the Olympic National Park, and the La Push Tribal Police Department. Anyone with information pertaining to this search is asked to contact the Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound Command Center at (206) 217-6001. If you see someone you think might be in distress in the water contact 911 for assistance Experts say this beach is known for heavy tides and its proliferation of logs, which are a bad combo. This is one Washington coast beach where you really must never turn your back on the tides. The National Park Service (NPS), which runs the Olympic National Park and Rialto Beach, said it's imperative you know the tides here. You should bring along a topographic map and plan your route as well. High tides also create special dangers around headlands, and many of them cannot be traveled around when that occurs. Be prepared to hike over headlands here. Much of Rialto Beach is not very wide, making it an area where you must be extra vigilant. More Washington Coast and below: MORE PHOTOS BELOW MORE ARTICLE BELOW Above: courtesy US Coast Guard, Puget Sound Sector Rialto Beach, courtesy John Leszczynski / Flickr 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 A group representing N.C. home builders is supporting a charter school operator in its legal fight with the town of Wake Forest. The state Supreme Court will hear the case in the months ahead.In Schooldev East v. Town of Wake Forest, the plaintiff argues that town commissioners abused their regulatory authority in 2020 to block a proposed charter school. A split 2-1 state Appeals Court panel upheld the town's decision in July 2022.The N.C. Home Builders Association filed a friend-of-the-court brief Friday in the case. Home builders raised their own concerns about Wake Forest's actions.according to the brief.home builders' lawyers wrote.For the home builders, one of the case's main legal issues involvesThe case also addressesaccording to home builders.The home builders' brief arrived on the same day that the N.C. Coalition of Charter Schools contributed to the legal proceedings. The charter school group's friend-of-the-court brief criticized the state Appeals Court's 2022 ruling supporting the town.The state Supreme Court agreed in April to take the case. The outcome of the legal dispute is unlikely to affect the school, Wake Preparatory Academy, which chose a different location after losing an earlier round in the courtroom battle.wrote the charter school coalition's lawyers, led by former Republican gubernatorial candidate and Charlotte Mayor Richard Vinroot.The Appeals Court split 2-1 in July 2022 when it issued its ruling supporting Wake Forest's decision to block a new charter school. The coalition's brief highlighted dissenting Judge John Tyson's assessment thatcoalition lawyers wrote.Schooldev's lawyers also submitted their latest brief in the case Friday.according to Schooldev's court filing.the brief continued.In November 2019, developers submitted plans to Wake Forest that included Wake Prep, a proposed K-12 charter school. Wake Forest officials rejected the plans in October 2020, citing concerns about a lack of pedestrian and bicycleThe developer sued Wake Forest. Superior Court Judge Vince Rozier upheld the town's decision in April 2021.Wake Prep eventually chose another location in an existing building on Capital Boulevard in Youngsville. But an Appeals Court panel ruled unanimously in July 2022 that Wake Forest could not have the lawsuit tossed out as moot.Judges Jeff Carpenter and John Arrowood still ruled in favor of town officials.to get necessary development permitsCarpenter wrote.Tyson's dissent cited Wake Forest's decision to ignore plansThat pathTyson wrote.Appellate judges disagreed about the proper application of a state law, N.C. General Statute 160A-307.1. It limits city government requirements forCarpenter and Arrowood did not believe the law limited Wake Forest's requirements in the Wake Prep case. Tyson disagreed.Tyson wrote.The N.C. Supreme Court has not yet scheduled the Schooldev case for oral arguments. As School Choice is beginning to take shape in North Carolina: What is your position on what it should evolve into? 3.45% School Choice is only a distraction from the promise of real public education.93.1% 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.3.45% School Choice - I cannot see how it serves the Education Industry. Education First Alliance is reporting: by: Sloan Rachmuth Leaders at Beaufort County Community College's (Early College High School) took immediate action after learning that minor students were exposed to sexual propaganda during a health class. The Gender Unicorn handout normalizing transgenderism and gender fluidity was distributed to high school students by an instructor employed by the school. The worksheet invites students to consider their gender identity and gender expression, declare their sex "assigned at birth," and choose who they're sexually and emotionally attracted to. Even though the class was taught by a community college instructor, Beaufort County Early College High School students are required to take it as part of their graduation requirements. After reading the worksheet her child brought home, a Beaufort mom told EFA, I was so mad that I was afraid of causing a ruckus if I complained in person. When another parent contacted the school, he was assured the problem had been quickly resolved. Administrators told the parent that the handout was outside the standards of the high school health curriculum. That kind of assignment will never be acceptable in Beaufort County schools, said Superintendent Dr. Matthew Cheeseman during EFAs follow-up interview. The Board of Education does not approve of this assignment. Dr. Cheeseman said that parents sign a waiver explaining that minor students may be exposed to age-advanced material in the Early College. Although parents assume the risks of enrollment, administrators work to ensure inappropriate materials do not reach children, said the Superintendent. North Carolina has 118 high schools partnering with community colleges, including Beaufort Early College High School. While working towards graduation, students earn college credits. Many students graduate with an associate degree, while others with workforce credentials or certificates. TALE OF TWO EARLY COLLEGES There is a stark difference between the response of the Beaufort County and the Forsyth County school districts when facing parents concerns over sexual agendas at school. In March, Forsyth Technical Community College catapulted to the national spotlight for a raucous drag show held on campus. It was offered by the school's LGBTQ club and open to students as young as 14. During the show, a male performer straddled a young girl, thrusting his genitals inches from her face. Laughter filled the room as adults watched At first, video of the show was shared via Meta (formerly Facebook). Local backlash came swiftly. Parents claimed high schoolers were notified via email that there would be free pizza at the on-campus restaurant, but no mention was made of drag queen performances. Forsyth Community College officials initially issued this statement to national group, Libs of Tic Tok: Forsyth Tech is committed to being a place of promise for our students. In order to fulfill that promise, we have clearly spelled out our mission, vision, and equity statements. These students, like all college students, are open to attend any student event. College officials insisted the performance was proper, despite knowing minors attended. After sustained media pressure, the K-12 school district and the community college agreed to limit access to inappropriate events for minors. AWARD-WINNING SCHOOL Beaufort County NC Community College Beaufort Early College High School and Beaufort Community College seem to coordinate well. This symbiosis likely explains why the high school is among the top performing in the state. Beaufort Early College High School has received an A on state accountability reports since 2014. Last year, 95 percent of its 275 high schoolers scored proficient in biology and E nglish compared to around 60% in all North Carolina schools. Its math scores are more impressive. Students at Early High scored proficient in Math I at a rate of 95% compared to only 41% at the state level. The school seems like a model for others to follow. National education leaders agree. U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona recently named Beaufort Early College High School as a National Blue Ribbon School for 2023. According to the Blue Ribbon website , schools are honored in one of two performance categories, based on all student scores, subgroup student scores, and graduation rates: Exemplary High Performing Schools are among their states highest-performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests. Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools are among their states highest-performing schools in closing achievement gaps between a schools subgroups and all students over the past five years. The school will be recognized at a ceremony in Washington, DC, in November. Anesthesiologists play a major role within ASCs, and as the industry continues to adapt, they need to as well. Here are 10 things anesthesiologists and ASCs should know: 1. Intravenous hydromorphone was acknowledged by an analysis as an effective alternative for IV fentanyl in complex outpatient and ambulatory extended recovery cases. 2. The median annual income for anesthesiologists in 2023 is $472,727, a 10 percent increase compared to 2022. 3. Anesthesiologists are required to have approximately 12,000 to 16,000 total patient care hours before earning their degree, while certified registered nurse anesthesiologists are required to have 2,500. 4. Three states have updated their policies for certified registered nurse anesthetists in 2023: Oregon repealed "redundant provisions" and clarified guidelines for CRNAs practicing in the state with the passage of a bill. The bill reaffirms the Oregon State Board of Nursing's authority to establish CRNA scope of practice. Delaware opted out of federal regulations requiring physician supervision of CRNAs. Wyoming opted out of federal regulations that require physician supervision of CRNAs for hospitals with 25 licensed beds or fewer. 5. The average anesthesiologist has $241,600 in student loan debt. 6. The Federal Trade Commission sued U.S. Anesthesia Partners and its creator, private equity firm Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe. The FTC alleges the two groups executed a multiyear anticompetitive scheme to consolidate anesthesiology practices in Texas, hike the price of anesthesia services provided to Texas patients and increase their own profits. 7. In its Medicare Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule, CMS is floating the addition of an add-on payment for healthcare common procedure coding system code G2211. The code will be applicable for outpatient office visits as an additional payment, according to the report, because of the costs physicians can incur when treating chronic conditions. 8. Anesthesiologists in the U.S. are paid the most in outpatient care centers, where they earn an average of $373,720 per year. 9. Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston has the best anesthesia residency program in 2023, according to Doxmity's Residency Navigator. 10. Thirteen percent of anesthesiologists have a net worth of more than $5 million. The American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology urged the Veterans Health Administration to create national practice standards for nurse anesthesiologists that prioritize evidence-based education and training standards. Certified registered nurse anesthetists are authorized to administer anesthesia at all levels in every state, and 24 states have opted out of Medicare supervision requirements, according to a Sept. 25 news release from the association. Many state laws do not require a physician anesthesiologist to fulfill supervisory roles. Dru Riddle, DNP, CRNA, PhD, president of the AANA, said the VA should embrace a similar anesthesia care model. "AANA believes that the VA facilities should be provided an opportunity to staff their anesthesia need in the way that works best for that facility," Dr. Riddle said in the release. "AANA maintains that physician anesthesiologists should be utilized in direct patient care to ensure all veterans have access to the care they need. Autonomous practice has been tried and proven effective in our military system, and there is no reason it should not be adopted by the Veterans Health Administration." ENT physician Oliver Jenkins, MD, and his wife Sherry-Ann Jenkins were sentenced to prison for conspiracy, mail fraud, wire fraud and healthcare fraud. Dr. Jenkins worked at the Toledo (Ohio) Clinic. He and his wife, who was not licensed to practice medicine in Ohio, started a new business called the The Toledo Clinic Cognitive Center, according to a Sept. 27 news release from the U.S. Justice Department. The two told the Toledo Clinic that patients suspected of cognitive disorders would come to the Cognitive Center for neurocognitive testing, diagnosis, treatment, and referrals. Ms. Jenkins would allegedly administer neurocognitive testing under the supervision of Dr. Jenkins. Instead, Dr. Jenkins never saw nor treated patients and Ms. Jenkins ordered PET scans and misdiagnosed patients, then billing healthcare benefits programs using Dr. Jenkins' billing number. Here are five hospitals or health systems that have announced plans to cut services since Sept. 15: 1. Munson Healthcare, an eight-hospital system, has unveiled a three-year "transformation plan" that will reduce inpatient services in rural areas and increase services at its hospital in Traverse City, Mich. 2. HSHS St. Joseph's Hospital in Chippewa Falls, Wis., will temporarily suspend surgical services Oct. 26. 3. West Reading, Pa.-based Tower Health agreed to sell eight urgent care centers and will close five others. The urgent care centers are outside of the health system's core service area and are being sold to Birmingham, Ala.-based American Family Care network. 4. IU Health Blackford Hospital in Hartford City, Ind., will no longer offer inpatient and emergency department services, effective Oct. 1. 5. York (Maine) Hospital is closing its birthing center by the end of September. Hospital officials noted that the decision to do so is the result of a decline in births and a shortage of workers. A hospital leader told Congress that a 2021 ransomware attack his health system experienced was "harder than the pandemic, by far." Stephen Leffler, MD, president and COO of Burlington-based University of Vermont Medical Center, testified Sept. 27 before the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Accountability with other cybersecurity experts and cyberattack victims. The ransomware attack cost the health system $65 million and shut down its EHR for 28 days, he told Congress. "Many of our young doctors had never written paper orders," he said in comments transcribed by CSPAN. "We had to go back and teach them how to do that." The incident also interrupted UVM Medical Center's internet, so clinics didn't even know which patients would be showing up that Monday morning. "We went to Best Buy and bought every walkie-talkie they had," Dr. Leffler said. The health system's clinical leaders brought in additional staff and met sometimes twice a day, seven days a week, to determine what care would be delayed and what could be transferred to other academic medical centers out of state (UVM is the only one in Vermont). "Over the course of that month, we delivered hundreds of babies, did trauma certainly. We did multiple other cancer staging operations, all safely, high quality, on paper," Dr. Leffler said. "It affected every single part of our function, everything that we do," he testified. "I've been an emergency medicine doctor for 30 years. I've been a hospital president for four years. The cyberattack was much harder than the pandemic, by far." Ian Worden was selected as the new interim CEO of Bartlett Regional Hospital in Juneau, Alaska. Mr. Worden takes the helm from Nate Rumsey, who was named acting CEO in August after David Keith announced plans to retire. Mr. Keith was named CEO in July 2022. Overall, Bartlett Regional has had eight CEOs since 2021, the Juneau Empire reported. The announcement of Mr. Worden's appointment was made Sept. 26 during the hospital board's monthly meeting, according to a news release. He will serve as the hospital conducts a search process and appoints a permanent CEO. Mr. Worden brings more than 25 years of healthcare leadership experience to the role, according to the release. Most recently, he served as COO of Tacoma, Wash.-based Virginia Mason Franciscan Health. He also previously served as COO of CHI Franciscan Health from 2015 to 2021 prior to the merger of CHI Franciscan and Virginia Mason. Bartlett said Mr. Worden is planning to join the hospital in late October. "I hope that Nate will continue to be part of our team in some senior leadership role," board President Kenny Solomon-Gross said, according to the Juneau Empire. "I believe, though, that we have some structural changes in our organization that are going to need some deep breadths of experience in healthcare. I believe that Ian, with his experience and his breadth of knowledge, and what he comes to us within the healthcare realm, is really going to help us move forward to our next step, to really get to where this organization needs to be." Baptist Health Floyd in New Albany, Ind., has named Richard Phillips, MD, as its new chief medical officer, according to a Sept. 28 news release shared with Becker's. Dr. Phillips assumed the role Sept. 25. Prior to joining Baptist Health, Dr. Phillips was practicing in Illinois as the chairman of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Chicago Medicine-AdventHealth GlenOaks Hospital in Glendale Heights. His initial goal is "establishing a strong relationship with the medical staff" and "focus on patient satisfaction and quality," he stated in the release. The Becker's Hospital Review website uses cookies to display relevant ads and to enhance your browsing experience. By continuing to use our site, you acknowledge that you have read, that you understand, and that you accept our Cookie Policy and our Privacy Policy Chesterfield, Mo.-based St. Luke's has named Tammy Lett, RN, senior vice president of its physician network. Ms. Lett will work in a dyad with Chief Medical Officer Darren Haskell, MD, according to a Sept. 27 news release shared with Becker's. The pair will lead all aspects of St. Luke's Medical Group and report directly to president and CEO Andy Bagnall. "St. Luke's is in the process of growing our medical group and implementing operational improvements to meet our patients' desire for timely access to our exceptional providers," Mr. Bagnall said. Ms. Lett brings 30 years of healthcare experience to the role, most recently serving as chief operating officer of physician enterprise at Springfield, Ill.-based Hospital Sisters Health System. Cleveland Clinic has opened the first phase of its 341,000-square-foot innovation district. The Cleveland Innovation District, a public-private initiative with the state of Ohio and JobsOhio, greatly expands the health system's research capabilities. "Our focus on innovation not only helps to develop new treatments to improve patient care but also contributes to the growth of our regions economy and efforts to train the workforce of tomorrow," said Tom Mihaljevic, MD, president and CEO of Cleveland Clinic, in a Sept. 28 news release. Dr. Mihaljevic noted that this represents the "largest research investment in our history." Philanthropic donations have already contributed more than $47 million to the effort. It also included $265 million in state funds and a $1.3 billion commitment from Cleveland Clinic. The first phase includes 45,000 square feet of remodeled laboratory space that will house research into such areas as computational life sciences, precision oncology and vaccine development. The center includes floor-to-ceiling glass walls, allowing for a view of the scientists at work. Next year, Cleveland Clinic plans to start building two new research buildings totaling 296,000 square feet. They will feature more research laboratories, classroom space, offices and a cafe. They will house the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Global Center for Pathogen Research and Human Health, the largest research initiative in Cleveland Clinic's 100-year-plus history. That work is expected to be completed in 2025. Cleveland Clinic also recently launched a high-performance computing project with IBM as part of the innovation district. A former Iowa nurse pleaded guilty to stealing pain medication meant for more than 50 maternity patients and replacing it with saline, ABC affiliate KCRG reported Oct. 12. Christina Olson, RN, 43, worked in the labor and delivery unit at a hospital in Waterloo, Iowa, starting in 2019. In January 2022, she began withdrawing pain medications from a secure dispensing machine on the pretense that a patient had an order for the medication. She then administered it to herself, replaced the drug with saline, and completed paperwork that billed the patients' insurance for the drugs, according to court documents. The hospital began investigating in March after a patient who had a cesarean section told hospital staff she had not received any pain medication, The Courier reported Sept. 28. The following day, Ms. Olson underwent a drug screening and tested positive for opiates and marijuana. She admitted to officials that she diverted the medication for personal use. In August 2022, Ms. Olson relinquished her license and agreed to not seek reinstatement for a year. She faces up to 12 years in prison and a $750,000 fine. A CMS investigation found Oklahoma State University Medical Center and Hillcrest Medical Center, both based in Tulsa, did not violate anti-patient-dumping laws, The Frontier reported Sept. 27. The investigation occurred after a homeless man, Brent Thurman, was allegedly turned away from both hospitals. Mr. Thurman was taken to OSU after he broke his wrist, but the hospital refused treatment due to a previous incident that involved security. A few days later, he was taken to Hillcrest after community members found him balled up and unable to walk. Shortly after going to the hospital, a nurse and security officer put Mr. Thurman in a wheelchair and allegedly dumped him onto the sidewalk across the street. The next day he was taken to a third hospital, where he was diagnosed with a serious infection that required surgery and left him partially paralyzed, he told The Frontier. Inspectors visited the hospitals in July and August 2022. In May, CMS sent a letter to both saying inspectors found the facilities were in compliance with federal rules. "While we are pleased state and federal regulators found our hospital to be in compliance with all regulations relating to this incident, we take our responsibility to care for all individuals including those experiencing homelessness very seriously," Hillcrest told The Frontier. OSU Medical Center said in a statement to The Frontier that it has "a long history of providing fair and equitable care regardless of the ability to pay." The label for Novo Nordisk's weight loss drug Ozempic now acknowledges some users' reports of ileus, or intestinal blockage. In its update, however, the FDA said it's difficult to confirm a causal relationship between the side effect and the drug. "Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure," the label says. Wegovy and Mounjaro, also GLP-1 agonist medications, already acknowledge reports of ileus on their labels. Novo Nordisk is the maker of both Ozempic and Wegovy, which both use an injection of semaglutide. In a statement to CNN, Novo Nordisk said, "Gastrointestinal events are well-known side effects of the GLP-1 class," adding, "For semaglutide, the majority of GI side effects are mild to moderate in severity and of short duration. GLP-1's are known to cause a delay in gastric emptying, as noted in the label of each of our GLP-1 RA medications. Symptoms of delayed gastric emptying, nausea and vomiting are listed as side effects." Despite health officials urging Americans to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine, distribution issues have affected the rollout process for many, including vulnerable residents at nursing homes. "The distribution of the new COVID-19 vaccine is not going well," said Chad Worz, PharmD, CEO of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists told The New York Times Sept 27. "Older adults in those settings are certainly the most vulnerable and should have been prioritized." It could be October or possibly November before many nursing homes begin administering the new COVID-19 shot, even though cases among this age group are already rising, the Times reported. The CDC has recommended seniors get all three vaccines this fall to ensure the most protection from COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus. However, convincing them to take the vaccines once nursing homes do have the supply is another challenge, experts told the Times. "Now that the public health emergency has ended, I think people are done with it," Sheena Bumpas, a nursing assistant and the vice chair of the National Association of Health Care Assistants told the Times. To complicate the rollout further, the COVID-19 vaccine and new RSV shot must be handled separately. Administratively for nursing homes to be reimbursed for this, the COVID-19 vaccine must be billed to Medicare Part B while the RSV vaccine has to be billed to Part D. To date, 62 percent of seniors in the U.S. are up-to-date with the latest COVID-19 vaccine, but a new survey found that only 40 percent of Americans in general are planning to get the newest jab. Minnesota and Washington were ranked top in the country for long-term care, thanks to strong support for family caregivers and access to many healthcare providers and long-term care setting options, an AARP report found. The "Long-Term Services & Supports State Scorecard" used 50 indicators across five dimensions to score states on their long-term care. The dimensions were affordability and access, choice of setting and provider, safety and quality, support for family caregivers and community integration. Here are eight findings: The lowest scoring states were in the Southeast, with Alabama and West Virginia ranking last. Twenty-one states experienced declines of 10 percent or more in adult day services since 2016, and 16 states had declines of 10 percent or more in access to home health aides since 2019. Medicaid LTSS spending for older adults that went to home and community-based services rose to 53 percent. The average annual cost of home care was $42,000 per person. Nursing homes in Montana, Kansas, South Dakota, Oklahoma and Missouri had more than 20 percent of residents with low care needs. Across all states, wages for direct care workers were lower than wages for comparable occupations, ranging from shortfalls of $1.56 to $5.03 per hour. New York, California, Texas, Louisiana and Washington, D.C., offer the least competitive wages in nursing homes. Only 22 percent of nursing home residents live in a facility with a five-star rating. The report offered several recommendations for improving long-term care, including prioritizing support for family caregivers, investing in all aspects of home and community-based services infrastructure, increasing nursing home workforce, and expanding the use of innovative models for quality of care and quality of life. Brian Cohen, MD, has completed 2,000 MAKO robotic joint replacement procedures, the Scioto Valley Guardian reported Sept. 28. Dr. Cohen, an orthopedic surgeon and founder of Columbus, Ohio-based Cohen Orthopedics, was the first physician in South Central Ohio to perform robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement procedures, according to the publication. "Two-thousand is just a number, but what it represents is more important," Dr. Cohen told the Scioto Valley Guardian. "It serves as a commitment from me to my patients and it is symbolic of the advanced technologies that I promise to continue to provide. Technologies, like MAKO, help make me a better surgeon, so I can do the best procedure for each individual patient." Belfasts first hometel a cross between a home and a hotel is set to open its doors next month. Real estate investor and developer Lamington Group will officially be welcoming the public to room2 on October 16. It will be the companys fourth outpost, and first property outside England. The nine-floor room2 is located in a new building at the corner of Queen Street and College Street. In total, 20m has been invested in the scheme. It was built by Northern Ireland developer Oakland Holdings following the demolition of Lyndon Court, though it has been scaled back from 14 storeys. Its now being leased to Lamington Group, which owns the room2 brand. room2 kitchenette The new property will consist of 175 rooms, as well as a cafe, tea room, meeting and event spaces, a gym, bar, restaurant and a lounge available for both guests and locals alike looking for an area space to work or relax. Rooms are designed for single or double occupancy but some family rooms have a mezzanine bed, and also interconnect to a twin room. Some are pet-friendly. Michelle Thomas, Lamington Groups New Openings Manager, commented: We are so excited to expand our portfolio and open our biggest hometel to date in the vibrant city of Belfast. We want our hometel to provide a place of comfort for both locals and tourists, further making our mark in the hometel sector of the hospitality industry. It also has free Wi-Fi, which Michelle hopes will encourage people to come in and use the building to work. The hometel is also fully electric, including two lab rooms, and uses solar energy generation, as well as local sourcing of materials, products and artwork, with an aim of becoming net zero by 2030. room2 shower and toilet facilities Prices will begin at around 130 a night. A spokesman for Oakland Holdings said it was delighted to be partnering with room2". "The location of the new aparthotel, right across from Merchant Square which we also developed and which is now fully occupied by PwC, will bring new life and energy to Queen Street and the central Belfast business district. The firm said it aims to double its headcount again in the next three to five years. A law firm that grew out of two established Belfast legal specialists has said it has more than doubled its workforce in the last two years. Lewis Silkin, which was founded in London, joined forces with Northern Ireland firm Jones Cassidy Brett in 2021 before acquiring tech-focused Forde Campbell the following year. Within the last two years the Belfast office has generated around 30 new jobs, bringing the total team to 48. And the firm said it aims to double its headcount again in the next three to five years. Ciara Fulton, head of Belfast office and partner, said that bringing both Jones Cassidy Brett and Forde Campbell into Lewis Silkin had enhanced the Belfast operations reach. Lewis Silkin operates across Ireland and the UK, as well as in Hong Kong. Ms Fulton said: Most law firms which come to Northern Ireland tend to import their operations and business, whereas Lewis Silkins Belfast operation is entirely indigenous. "At the same time, we have stayed true to Lewis Silkins core specialisms ideas, people and possibilities. This means we have an advantage in terms of our local knowledge and specialisms which include employment, immigration, intellectual property, tech and data. The Belfast office now also includes a business immigration team of seven led by London-based partner, Stephen OFlaherty while Paul Gillen is now partner specialising in employment. On the tech and IP side, the team is experiencing rapid growth. Rory Campbell, who co-found Forde Campbell in the mid-2000s with Mathew Forde, said the rapid expansion of digitisation across all sectors has opened up demand for specialist legal advice. Both are now partners in Lewis Silkin. Our firm developed in parallel with tech start-ups, says Mr Campbell. We would involve ourselves at the core of their activity particularly during investment rounds and thanks to this we have built a strong reputation in this field. Author Angie Rowe explains how a visit to Cobh inspired her new murder mystery The immense silhouette proudly dominated the Harland & Wolff shipyard in Belfast. The White Star Lines newest, most opulent and most expensive ocean liner, built by its 15,000-strong workforce, was set to be launched. The work had been gruelling, the days long 60 hours per week but there was a pride in the work: they had built the biggest, the best, vessel in the world. Not every man who worked on the ship lived to see the launch: during the construction of the Titanic, there were 254 reported accidents, including eight fatalities. One year before its maiden voyage, over 100,000 people gathered to watch the vessel take to the water. Twenty-two tonnes of soap, tallow and train oil were spread on the slipway to lubricate the ships passage into the River Lagan. The ship was then towed to a fitting-out berth where, over the course of the next year, her engines, funnels and superstructure were installed and her interior was fitted out. The work was briefly held up when her sister ship Olympic collided with British Royal Navy cruiser Hawke. Shipyard workers had to stop work on the Titanic to repair her sister ship. This delayed the RMS Titanics maiden voyage from March 20, 1912, to April 10, 1912. The Titanic was more than a ship to the people of Belfast. It was a representation of the stature of the city and the people who built it. Blood and guts went into its creation, and this ship to this day the most talked about, the most famous, the most evocative ship ever to have existed will forever be linked to Belfast. The Titanic still holds a fascination that is unique and universal. We are always drawn back to that quiet night in April 1912 when the stars were brighter than ever, though there was no moon. The stillness meant that no waves lapped against the iceberg to give away its position. We are forever stuck in the what-if phase. What if the moon had shone brightly? What if the lookouts had seen the iceberg moments earlier? What if theyd struck the iceberg head on? What if shed sailed on March 10 as planned? What if theyd had enough lifeboats? There have been other shipwrecks, other disasters at sea, that dont draw us in the way the Titanic does. People want to see it for themselves, with their own eyes, before it disintegrates completely. On April 10, 1912, everyone who was anyone made their way to Southampton to see the magnificent ship. Even now, more than 100 years after its launch, people are proud to claim a connection, however distant, to the crew and the passengers of the Titanic. The smallest relationship is important and treasured. So when I visited the Titanic Experience in Cobh and, for the first time, heard that seven first-class passengers had disembarked at Cobh (then called Queenstown), I raised my eyebrows that was news to me. But more was to come. I knew about Father Francis Browne through his wonderful collection of photographs both on the Titanic and later during the First World War and his subsequent travels. The Seventh Passenger by Angie Rowe The Odell/May family had also taken photographs and had generously donated items that theyd used when aboard the ship to the Titanic Experience in Cobh. The family had come to Ireland to take a motoring holiday around the southern counties. The tour guide continued on and basically stopped me in my tracks. The thing that caught my attention was that one of the seven passengers had left the ship and wasnt heard from again. Emily Nichols had disembarked, having travelled on the Titanic with a family friend, Mr Richard Smith, and there was barely any further mention of the lady. A footnote in the information said that she probably returned to her house in London. It was also noted that Mr Smith had died in the disaster and his body, if recovered, had not been identified. I couldnt get Emily Nichols out of my head. There was some information about her life before the Titanic but nothing afterwards except a few lines in the Sheffield Telegraph newspaper reporting that she had, fortunately, left the ship at Queenstown. I thought it odd that so much had been written about the Titanic, its crew and especially its passengers and yet the short stop at Queenstown had somehow been glossed over. That was when I was inspired to find out more and began to research using all resources open to me. I created a murder mystery set on board the Titanics maiden voyage and loosely based the character of Amelia Nelson on the mysterious woman. The Seventh Passenger is the story of the first-class passengers who disembarked from the Titanic at Cobh. District Inspector Lorcan ODowd, stationed in Youghal, is tasked with solving the mystery of the murder. A difficult task indeed, as when the RMS Titanic sank, she took with it the crime scene, the witnesses and possibly the murderer. The Seventh Passenger by Angie Rowe (Poolbeg Press, 14) is out now in paperback and as an ebook I wasnt a big reader as a child but I was obsessed with drawing. I have clear memories of being very young, lying on the backroom carpet and doodling away the hours with a pencil in my hand. I loved drawing tiny details. Uniforms, tanks and aeroplanes. I also liked comics such as The Beano, The Dandy and, later, Action, Battle and Warlord. I had no interest in becoming a soldier, but I always wanted to be an artist. I began writing and illustrating my own books in 2017. Before then, I drew other peoples stories, working as an animation artist for almost 30 years. I got my break in the late 1980s when I was hired by Don Bluth in his new Irish studio. Thats where I first learned about story. I worked on animated movies including The Land Before Time, All Dogs Go To Heaven, Thumbelina and Rock-A-Doodle. It was a wonderful time surrounded by great artists and storytellers. In 1995 I moved to the US and joined 20th Century Fox. Again, under the direction of Don Bluth, I worked on more movies, notably Anastasia and Titan AE. My desire to write my own stories grew stronger and when I returned to Ireland I worked as an art director, creating content for childrens television. I began to understand the format for writing a little better. Around that time I was storyboarding Polly Dunbars Tilly books for television and that was a real education for me. Studying her books from that perspective gave me a great insight into writing for children. Read more Dolly Parton opens new chapter in Belfast with free books for 100 youngsters My first real foray into childrens books was as an illustrator primarily for Irish language publishers. After illustrating many titles in Ireland and a series for Usborne in the UK, the time felt right for me to sit down and attempt to write my own book. I felt I wanted to make a book about my home city, Dublin, including its landmarks and architecture but based around a fun story. I needed a central character and a quest of some sort. The first book I wrote was The Presidents Glasses. Its a caper about a pigeon who is tasked with finding the president and delivering his glasses to him (which he has left at home). In fact, the president character didnt appear in the first draft at all. I had worked out the pace of the story and all the interesting locations that I wanted to include, but I felt it lacked something. I thought that if I included a character that children were already familiar with, it could work and [I could] draw them to the book. The story never mentions President Michael D Higgins by name I was careful not to do that but when the book came out, people could see the similarity. He is a much-loved public figure, especially by children. The idea worked and Nicki Howard at Gill Books offered to publish it. The Presidents Glasses became an instant bestseller and was nominated for the Childrens Book of the Year in 2017. I was overwhelmed by how popular it became. In the following years I wrote and illustrated two more books in the series. The second book, The Presidents Cat, won Book of the Year in 2018 and really cemented the series. As each book was published, the following grew bigger and bigger, and I travelled the length and breadth of the country appearing in schools, libraries and book festivals, reading these charming little stories and drawing the characters. Making a series of books that have become firm favourites and bring joy to many children is a wonderful feeling. I never take it for granted. Its a very fortunate position to be in as a writer and illustrator. I receive emails and letters from parents and children thanking me for these books; it really is mind-blowing the impact that they have had. On a professional level, it put me on the map and has allowed me the opportunity to have other books published. The Dead Zoo and Up On The Mountain have both become bestsellers too and have been nominated for book awards. I also enjoy reading them at book festivals. And so it brings me to the publication of my fourth book in the President series. After a two-year break, during which I concentrated on other creative projects, I have returned with a new title, The Presidents Dog. Children have always asked me to write a book about the presidents dogs and I sat on the idea until the right story came to me. It could be very easy just to churn out books in the series, but I feel my readers deserve better, and its important to me as a picture book maker to deliver quality books. It has been a terrific journey making these books but, sadly, as the presidents second term comes to an end in 2025, so too will the series. But for now, Im very excited about this new adventure hitting the book shops. The Presidents Dog by Peter Donnelly (Gill Books, 15.99) is out now The Presidents Dog by Peter Donnelly (Gill Books, 15.99) is out now Kabul University celebrates "Confucius Institute Day" with Chinese language competition Xinhua) 13:09, September 28, 2023 KABUL, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Language and Literature Department of Kabul University marked the "Confucius Institute Day" in Kabul on Wednesday by organizing a competition among Chinese learners. "Five teams competed in the public speaking competition of Chinese language today, which was hosted by Kabul University and 17 persons found their way to the final," lecturer of the department Hamid Ghulami told Xinhua. Themed "Chinese Language and Me," the competition attracts some 120 guests from inside and outside the university. Competitors in their speeches revealed how and from when they began learning the Chinese language, their experience in China, and their memories during the Chinese language courses. The Chinese Language and Literature Department of Kabul University gives admission to some 50 students each year, Ghulami said, adding that currently, some 80 students are learning the Chinese language in the department. Noor Rahman Ahmadi from Kabul University won the first place in the speech competition. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) The NSPCCs Young Witness Service supports children who have to attend NI courts as prosecution witnesses. Billy Eagleson tells us whats involved and why this unique resource needs more volunteers Appeal: Billy Eagleson wants more people from throughout Northern Ireland to volunteer for YWS Every year in Northern Ireland, hundreds of children and young people give evidence as prosecution witnesses in criminal trials. Having to attend court can be terrifying for a child and the process can be overwhelming and stressful for both the young person and their family. The NSPCCs Young Witness Service (YWS) provides support and assistance to those under 18-years-old, as well as their family, before, during and after a trial. Working alongside other professionals, YWS staff and volunteers operate across Crown, Magistrates and Youth Courts. Its a vital service, says Billy Eagleson (46), Young Witness Service volunteer coordinator. By their very nature, courts can be an intimidating environment and children and adults may fear seeing or bumping into an alleged perpetrator. Knowing that someone is there to help with even simple things such as whos who, where they have to go, finding them a private place to wait so they dont have to see the accused, can help cause as little further trauma as possible. Support: Billy Eagleson is NSPCC Young Witness Service volunteer coordinator Funded by the Department of Justice, the Young Witness Service began in 1999 and is the only one of its kind in the UK. Its a free, independent and confidential service and last year supported more than 500 children and their families. YWS volunteers help guide young people and their parents or carers through something they wouldnt choose to do, but have to go through, adds Billy. Giving evidence in a court trial can be a very daunting experience for a child. Parents or guardians can bring them to court, or another building close to the courts called a remote evidence centre, but if a young person has to give evidence, they will do it from whats usually called a video-link room a bit like Skype. For the purpose of that court case, the room becomes the witness box, and for that reason the young persons family is not allowed to be in the room with them. In this room, our volunteers perform a formal court role which is called an accompanying officer and while carrying out this role, a YWS volunteer can be present in the video-link room with the young person. However, once cross-examination starts, they are not allowed to speak to the young person. Their job at that particular moment is to provide a reassuring presence. Thats why the service is so important. Our volunteers will meet the young person either on the day of the case or in advance and start to build a rapport and relationship with them and let them know that they are there as a supportive friendly presence who wants them to be brave and do their best. The volunteer role also involves bringing young ones into the court, waiting with them, getting them a drink, chatting to them to try to put them at ease and take their mind off the process of giving evidence. Volunteers also explain to them how the court process works and try their best to help children and families navigate through that. We never discuss a case. The most important thing we tell a young person is to be brave, take their time, be honest and tell the truth. Billy, who has worked for the Young Witness Service for 10 years, explains that it is not just there for children giving evidence at trials involving abuse. We dont tailor our support depending on the crime, we tailor our support entirely on the specific needs of the child or young person, he says. YWS is there for any criminal case where a child or young person is required to give evidence. You could have a teenager of 17 giving evidence in a very minor case, but who is incredibly nervous and needs a lot of support. Then you might get a 10-year-old victim of a serious crime, but who is able to go in and give evidence quite confidently. He admits that while being a YWS volunteer can be tough at times, the rewards are immense. It can be difficult watching a child go through such a challenging experience, he says. Hearing details of some cases can be quite hard. There are cases that stay with you both in terms of the incident and also being with a child who is having to relive what for them has been a very a horrible experience. But the courage and bravery of the young people we work with also stays with us. Its one of the most uniquely demanding volunteer roles that Ive ever come across, but also one of the most uniquely rewarding. You are doing something that is phenomenally important and has a real impact on a young person and their family. And we have a great support system in place for our volunteers. Were a very close-knit team and theres great camaraderie within the whole service. If theres been a difficult case, there is always someone on hand to talk to and decompress. Many volunteers stay with us for a long time. Appeal: Billy Eagleson wants more people from throughout Northern Ireland to volunteer for YWS Although there are currently 55 YWS volunteers, the service desperately needs more from all areas of Northern Ireland and from all walks of life. We support children across 15 courts, the busiest for cases involving young people being Laganside in Belfast, says Billy. But we need to have enough volunteers all over Northern Ireland to be able to meet the need in an area as it comes up. Having an interest in the wellbeing of young people and having an approachable and friendly nature are the key things we look for in a volunteer. Every volunteer undergoes expert training and then they shadow experienced volunteers for a few months until they feel ready to work on their own. Billy (46), who lives in Ballymena with his wife Katrina and children Faye and Cameron, has always had an interest in the criminal justice system, volunteering and helping young people, and worked with NIACRO, The Princes Trust and Volunteer Now. He says: I studied social psychology at the then University of Ulster in Coleraine and criminology formed part of my degree course. My dad was a volunteer youth leader at the youth club on the housing estate where I grew up. Mum and Dad wanted us to have the opportunities that they didnt, and I had a brilliant, brilliant childhood in a close-knit community. My brother and sisters and I were very lucky to have parents who really encouraged us and we had a very stable life. Some of my friends perhaps didnt have that and Ive lost quite a few of the friends I had at primary school to addiction and other issues. Coming from an area that has many social issues, I saw first-hand the challenges that some children face growing up and I realised early on in my career that I wanted to work with young people. And because of my longstanding interest in criminal justice, I was aware of the court system and how daunting it must be for a child or young person having to be part of that system. Even after 10 years I still really enjoy my job, particularly working with the volunteers, who become firm friends. You get such a unique insight into peoples lives, and you meet some fantastic people and families along the way. You cant overplay how big an impact YWS staff and volunteers have on children and young people going through the court process. If you would like to find out more about becoming a Young Witness Service volunteer, go to www.nspcc.org.uk and search Young Witness Service. You can also email Billy at: billy.eagleson@nspcc.org.uk The service recently launched a child-friendly animated video to help guide young people through the Criminal Justice System in Northern Ireland. The video can be accessed at https://youtu.be/s6BIk3shkMA Im proud to make the experience a little less frightening Like many people, Young Witness Service volunteer Hugh was unaware of the NSPCC service until a newspaper story prompted him to find out more. Now aged 70, the retired public servant has been a YWS volunteer for almost six years. When I read about the YWS in the paper, I realised what a great service it was and knew I wanted to get involved, explains Hugh. Going to court is probably one of the most intimidating experiences that a child will have to go through. Not only are they witnesses, but often they are victims of crime as well. Im a father and grandfather and I would shudder to think of my own grandchildren having to go through that, he adds. Young people are even more nervous than adults in a court environment because they are vulnerable and often fear coming face-to-face with the accused. Theres also the stage fright of speaking in front of very well-qualified people. Most of the time, we only meet the young witness on the day that they are due to give evidence. The NSPCC child services practitioner (CSP) will have met and got to know them prior to that. However, sometimes I go along to pre-court visits with the CSP and the young person, and they are shown the courtroom and told who will be sitting where and where they will give their evidence from. Children are usually very deferential toward adults and often like to have things explained to them, such as who everyone is and what their job involves. A lot of the fear that they have is of the unknown. Sometimes you need to explain what the jury is. They might think that a jury is made up of very qualified people who will judge them, instead of ordinary people from all walks of life who like themselves are in court on a one-off and want to hear and find out the truth. A common question is What if I say the wrong thing? We just tell them that telling the truth is never wrong. The training provided by the NSPCC is very good and prepares you well and you always work as a pair alongside a CSP or another volunteer. YWS staff and volunteers come from different backgrounds and are different ages, and we are always picking things up from one another. For example, although Im a dad and grandad, Im always learning new things about working with children, especially children with additional needs. Everyone has children somewhere in their lives, whether they are our own or a friend or relatives, so your heart goes out to these young people who are having to go through the ordeal of giving evidence. Thankfully this is now done via a video-link, but its still intimidating. Im proud to be part of the YWS team and can help make the experience a little less frightening for them. A Co Down company director is to go on trial next year accused of an international multimillion-pound Bitcoin cryptocurrency fraud after he denied the offences today. Standing in the dock of Downpatrick Crown Court, Holywood man Jawad Yaqub (45) entered not-guilty pleas to each of the 25 charges against him. Facing charges covering a timespan between February 2016 and October 2018, Yaqub, of Ben Vista Park, is accused of 19 charges of converting criminal property and four of fraud by false representation. He also faces single charges of fraudulent training and theft. While the alleged facts surrounding the charges have not been opened in court, the charge sheets state Yaqub was a director in Razormind Limited but carried on his business for a fraudulent purpose, namely to defraud participants in the DeOS (decentralised operating system) crowd sale. The fraud by false representation charges allege that Yaqub claimed Razormind Limited is a world-leading information technology services company providing a wide range of services to a substantial and diversified client base, including corporations, financial institutions, governments and high-net-worth individuals. He allegedly falsely represented that the substantial and diversified client base included Bank of America, Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Chubb, Deutsche Lufthansa and other groups or companies. Yaqub also allegedly falsely claimed he had obtained an MPhil and PhD from Queens University Belfast. He is alleged to have stolen 397.504 Bitcoin belonging to Razormind Limited. At current market value, that would equate to Bitcoin worth more than 8m. Following the arraignment, defence lawyer Eilis McDermott KC said that efforts to instruct a computer expert will continue at pace and wont interfere in any way with the trial date. The court heard that both defence and prosecution are liaising to narrow the issues ahead of the trial, which Judge Geoffrey Millar KC scheduled for March 4 next year. Freeing Yaqub on bail, Judge Millar said he would also review the case on November 17 to ensure it was progressing. An expelled member of the Alliance Party taking legal action over his unsuccessful attempts to be selected as an election candidate is no longer being represented by Northern Irelands Equality Commission. Geoffrey Wilson had secured backing from the body for a case involving alleged discrimination on the grounds of age and political opinion. But the Court of Appeal today granted the Commissions application to come off record due to funding issues. Mr Wilson told the panel of judges: I fully understand it is for financial reasons, nothing to do with changing their minds on the merits. The 52-year-old legal consultant, from the Dunmurry area of Belfast, was a member of Alliance for nine years. He claims that he was suspended and then expelled in December 2021 over events at a meeting to select candidates for the Lagan Valley constituency. The steps were taken because of a controversial question put to an Alliance councillor, he has previously alleged. Last year Mr Wilson was denied High Court permission to seek a judicial review of his removal from the cross-community party. In a separate move he attempted to have a case heard by the Fair Employment Tribunal sitting in Belfast. Mr Wilson said that between 2017 and 2021 he repeatedly failed to secure approval to stand as an Alliance candidate in local council, Assembly and Westminster elections. He alleged discrimination because of his age and his emphasis on strong pro-abortion and transgender rights. In October last year the Tribunal refused jurisdiction to hear his claim on the grounds that he was never an employee of the party. Mr Wilson is challenging that determination at the Court of Appeal. The case is expected to focus on whether fair employment legislation provides scope for a political party to also be interpreted as a vocational organisation. With Mr Wilson once again acting as a personal litigant, he sought an adjournment to allow more time to seek alternative representation. He also told the court that he intends to make a fresh application for funding to a new specialist, post-Brexit unit within the Equality Commission. Madam Justice McBride asked how he would approach the case if he ultimately cannot obtain legal or financial support. Mr Wilson replied: If I have to, I will do it myself. Proceedings were adjourned for two weeks, when he is expected to provide an update on his status. A remorseless heroin dealer - once shot by the Provos 30 years ago for drugs has been hit with ten more months on top of a ten-year jail sentence. Antrim drug pusher William Gracey is already languishing in a prison in Liverpool after he was sentenced earlier this year to ten-and-a-half years for dealing huge amounts of heroin. The Sunday World exposed him for the first time back in May after it emerged he was a leading member of a massive Scouse drugs gang. Now the newspaper has revealed while he was awaiting trial for being caught with ten kilos of deadly smack in Merseyside he was also facing a trial for dealing smack and cocaine in Co Antrim. The 45-year-old appeared at Antrim Crown Court last week by videolink from HMP Garth, just outside Preston, where Judge Alistair Devlin told Gracey he had to serve his sentence consecutive to the stretch hes already doing. He told Gracey that was because he had committed the offences in Liverpool while on bail for drug offences in Northern Ireland. Gracey, from Altmore Close in Antrim, had earlier entered guilty pleas to being concerned in the supply of cocaine and heroin, both class A drugs, simple possession of cannabis and possessing class C drugs bromazolam and diazepam. Prosecuting counsel Suzanne Gallagher told the court how those offences arose on 29 August last year when cops saw a white Mercedes van at the Nutts Corner roundabout. The van pulled into a lay-by and when Gracey got out of the passenger seat, cops saw him throw a package over his shoulder into the field behind him. She outlined how he told cops he had kicked a package of cannabis under the van and when officer retrieved the package from the field, it was found to contain three wraps of heroin and cocaine. Gracey was searched and he was found to have 1,000 in his pocket and Ms Gallagher told the court when his home was searched, cops found boxes of prescription drugs and five empty deal bags containing traces of cocaine but also Graceys DNA. The package from the field was also found to have Graceys DNA on it but the court heard that the supply offences were made out from text messages and social media private messages found on two of Graceys mobile phones seized from his home. Arrested and interviewed Gracey refused to answer police questions and he was freed on bail but it was while on bail the dealer relocated himself to Liverpool and cops scooped him for having a whopping ten kilos of heroin. Merseyside Police told the Sunday World back in May a huge stash of heroin was found in a cupboard in Graceys Liverpool flat in February. They told us: At around 1am on Wednesday 8th February 2023, a warrant was executed on a flat on Tithebarn Street in Liverpool city centre. Officers conducted a search of the address and found 10 kilograms of heroin hidden in a cupboard. William Gracey, 45 years, of Altmore Close, Antrim, Northern Ireland was charged with possession with intent to supply Class A (heroin and diamorphine) and B drugs (cannabis). He was remanded into custody. He pleaded guilty at a court hearing at Liverpool Crown Court and on Monday 24th April Gracey was sentenced to 10 years and six months years in prison. But the Sunday World has revealed Gracey has form for working with Liverpool drug gangs and had been living between Antrim and Liverpool for over a decade. He was convicted and jailed in 2015 at Belfast Crown Court after he was part of a plot to smuggle huge quantities of cocaine into Northern Ireland from England. The shameless dealer was caught in 2013 with 100,000 worth of cocaine but the case stood out after it emerged a female drug mule had concealed half of the massive stash in her body. The court was told the woman, who had travelled to Belfast on the Liverpool ferry with the drugs stashed inside her, was lucky to have survived as the package of coke had burst inside her. Gracey was arrested and charged along with two other men and a woman after police swooped on a house in the town's Greystone area in 2013. Apart from Gracey, all of the other suspects were from Liverpool and they all travelled on the ferry before Gracey took them to an address in Antrim, where the drugs were discovered. The court heard that one package was discovered in the property and a second hidden inside the 42-year-old woman. Prosecution counsel said: "When hospital staff removed the drugs from her the package was literally about to open and she could have been in some danger." Gracey was the mastermind behind the smuggling operation according to police. The Sunday World revealed how Gracey was once shot by the IRA in the early 90s for dealing drugs. Sources in Antrim who knew him well said he told everyone he was shot in the leg because he was a Protestant and he was seeing a Catholic from the nationalist north Belfast area, Ardoyne. Truth was he was shot for dealing drugs back in the 90s, said a source. He was a low-level dealer back then but hes clearly climbed up the ladder to have got ten years in England. The Provos shot him in the leg and warned him not to be dealing drugs in nationalist areas again. But despite a number of convictions for dealing drugs Gracey has continued to ply his trade selling deadly illegal drugs and specialised in trafficking heroin and cocaine. Sources told the Sunday World Gracey was believed to be one of Merseysides biggest heroin smugglers. The Merseyside Police have been after Gracey for years and couldnt believe their luck when they found 10k of smack in his flat, said a source. He was caught bang-to-rights. They only found the heroin three months ago and hes already held his hands up and started a lengthy jail term but no doubt he wont learn his lesson this time either. They are delighted to have him off the streets of Liverpool. He deserves to be locked up for a long, long time. Steven.moore@sundayworld.com The crest of the Royal Courts of Justice where the High Court and the Court of Appeal sit in Belfast (Liam McBurney/PA) An African woman who claims her kidney was forcibly harvested before she fled to Northern Ireland has launched a legal challenge to being denied status as a victim of human trafficking. The Eritrean national says the organ was surgically removed while drugged and being kept at a house in Sudan. She is seeking to judicially review a determination reached by the Home Office following her escape and onward journey to Belfast earlier this year. Lawyers for the woman, who is in her twenties but cannot be identified, contend that the decision unlawfully violated her right to be protected from trafficking and slavery. A High Court judge today listed the case for hearing next month. Papers lodged as part of the challenge state that the woman left Eritrea after her father was killed because of his opposition to its government. She moved to Ethiopia and worked as a maid for a family until a member of that household allegedly beat and tried to rape her. Assisted by an agent, she escaped and was brought to Sudan, where she was kept for seven months. During her stay in a packed, dirty house run by traffickers one of her kidneys was forcibly harvested, it is claimed. In her affidavit the woman recalled how she discovered what happened to her after medicine had been mixed into her food. The next thing I remember is waking up (on a mattress on the floor) and feeling discomfort in my abdomen, she stated. After about one week I was able to remove the plaster. I saw the wound and the stitches. I talked to some other prisoners within the house, and they told me there were others who had suffered the same thing. She claimed she was forced back to work once she was able to move again, but eventually allowed to leave when the agents feared being detected by the authorities. The woman escaped to Turkey under a fake passport, according to her account, before travelling to Belfast via Greece and Dublin in order to seek asylum. At a screening interview she was referred on as a potential victim of human trafficking or modern slavery. But earlier this month the Home Office decided there were not reasonable grounds to conclude that she should be granted that status. Despite accepting her credibility and that she raised concerns about exploitation at the earliest stage, it was concluded she had not provided enough detail to support her claim. The womans legal team have mounted a number of grounds of challenge to the decision, including allegations of irrationality and breach of Article 4 of the European Convention of Human Rights, which prohibits slavery and forced labour. Speaking outside court, her solicitor, Karl McKenna of Brentnall law firm, said: "This case is a depressing and shocking example of the most vulnerable people in our society being badly let down by the current system. We hope that the Home Office will now properly review this decision as a matter of urgency and that our client can receive the important support that victims require. Police respond to two incidents on Wednesday night Police at the scene of a shooting incident in the Upper Movilla Street area of Newtownards on September 27th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Police at the scene of a shooting incident in the Divismore Crescent area of west Belfast on September 27th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Police were at the scene of separate shootings in west Belfast and Newtownards on Wednesday evening. The first shooting incident was in the Divismore Crescent area of west Belfast. Shortly after 9pm, it was reported that a man in his 20s had been shot three times in the legs. He has been taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries A cordon was in place and an investigation is underway. PSNI Neighbourhood Inspector Roisin Brown said: "Officers attended the scene along with our colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service. "The victim, aged in his twenties, was taken to hospital for treatment. "Although not believed to be life threatening, the injuries sustained in this barbaric act will have significant impact on the victim and he will undoubtedly live with the trauma of what has happened to him. "Everyone has the right to live their life free from the threat of violence and this brutal attack by people who violate the human rights of others must be universally condemned. "We live in a democratic society where there is no justification for this. Those responsible brutalise their own communities and control others through intimidation and violence. SDLP councillor Paul Doherty said it was disgraceful these type of attacks continue in west Belfast. Violence of this kind must be condemned in the strongest possible terms, nobody wants to see incidents like this happening on our streets and the involvement of dangerous weapons is extremely concerning, he said. The people carrying out these attacks do not have the support of the local community and I would urge anyone with any information to come forward to police. "We need to see the thugs behind this attack brought to justice and this dangerous weapon seized before somebody else is seriously hurt or killed. Meanwhile, police were also at the scene of separate shooting incident at Upper Movilla Street, Newtownards. Shortly after 9.30pm it was reported that a man in his 30s had been shot in one leg. He has been taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries. The pressure group Stop Attacks has condemned the brutal act. Another human rights abuse carried out last night in Ards, it posted on social media. "Another brutal act that will have life-changing consequences for the victim. "These actions don't protect communities they are rooted in the power and control criminal gangs want over neighbourhoods. "This must end. Anyone with any information on either shooting which could assist with police enquiries is asked to contact officers on 101. Michael Long with his photograph and Kate Nicholl with her portrait Belfast City Council spent 15,000 of ratepayers money on a portrait of former Lord Mayor Kate Nicholl, it has emerged. The spending has been branded unacceptable by one councillor, coming on the back of Belfast City Council hiking rates for households by almost 8%. Belfast City Council is the only local authority that commissions painted portraits of its civic leaders. The portrait of Ms Nicholl, who was sworn in as Lord Mayor on June 1, 2021, and served until her election to the Assembly in May of last year, was unveiled earlier this week. As her term was cut short by her election to Stormont, her Alliance Party colleague Michael Long took over as Lord Mayor for three weeks. Given the briefness of Mr Longs mayoral term, he did not have a portrait painted, but rather a large photograph framed. Ms Nicholl was pregnant while mayor and dedicated her portrait to the midwives of Belfast, who bring the next generation into this world. Belfast City Council told this newspaper that 15,000 was spent on Ms Nicholls mayoral portrait and frame, while Mr Longs photograph and frame cost 490. Mr Nicholls portrait was painted by Coalisland-based artist Catherine Creaney. It is tradition for these portraits to be created by local artists. Public spending campaigners have for years criticised the practice of Belfast City Council commissioning portraits of Lord Mayors, branding such displays an expensive vanity project. Regarding the recent portraits, Conor Holohan, media campaign manager at the TaxPayers Alliance, said, with rates on the rise, this spend doesnt paint a pretty picture for taxpayers. Belfast People Before Profit councillor Michael Collins said: It is unacceptable for Belfast City Council to continue spending ratepayers money to idolise its mayors, particularly when rates have just been hiked by 8%. Local councils have a duty to commission public artworks and support artists who have struggled immensely during the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis. The only time Belfast City Council seems to do it is when it wants to glorify the Mayor. He added that his party believes this money could be better spent on community art commissions and to support and promote the work of artists in the city. An Alliance Party spokesperson said: An official portrait of the Lord Mayor of Belfast is a tradition which many view as an investment in local artists and a contribution to one of the largest collections of portraiture on the island, which will act as a historical record for generations to come. As Lord Mayor Kate championed children, their voices and the role of working mothers, [she] is delighted these themes have been captured so well by artist Catherine Creaney. At the ceremony, Kate dedicated the portrait to the midwives of Belfast, who bring the next generation into this world and deserve far more recognition than they receive. She was greatly heartened to have the deed commended by the Royal College of Midwives. Kate hopes young women and girls who see the painting on the walls of City Hall see that they not only have a place in politics, but also feel empowered to get involved. A number of cancer charities have expressed concern over the "minimal improvement in waiting times for patients to begin treatment in Northern Ireland as all targets are missed. Macmillan Cancer Support said the latest statistics published by the Department of Health on Thursday are still the third worst on record. National Statistics on cancer waiting times for the quarter ending in June 2023 show that 2,769 patients commenced their first treatment for cancer which is down 0.5% on the previous three months but up 4.1% compared to the same quarter last year. Almost 88% (2,435) of those patients started treatment within the target of 31 days of a decision to treat being made compared with 87.8% (2,445) in the previous quarter and 86.2% (2,293) in the same quarter last year. Targets require that at least 98% of patients diagnosed with cancer should receive their first definitive treatment within 31 days of a decision to treat. Between April and June 1,371 patients started treatment following a an urgent GP referral for suspected cancer. 0.5% fewer than in the previous quarter (1,378), and 6.4% more than in the same quarter last year (1,289). Almost 37% (506) of those patients commenced treatment within the 62 day target compared with 34.8% (479) in the previous quarter and 37.7% (486) in the same quarter last year. Targets state that at least 95% of patients should begin their first definitive treatment for cancer within 62 days following an urgent GP referral for suspect cancer. Meanwhile 3,457 patients first seen following an urgent referral for suspected breast cancer which was 4.9% (180) fewer than in the previous quarter (3,637), and 10.5% (406) fewer than in the same quarter last year (3,863). Just over 70% (2,426) of those referrals were seen within 14 days of their urgent referral for breast cancer, compared with 84.2% (3,062) in the previous quarter and 52.0% (2,008) in the same quarter last year. A total of 6,784 new suspected breast cancer patients were referred to specialists between April and June of which 67.2% (4,557) were urgent. Targets require all urgent breast cancer referrals to be seen within 14 days. Sarah Christie, Policy and Public Affairs Manager at Macmillan Cancer Support here said "the latest statistics for Northern Ireland, show a minimal improvement for waits to begin treatment, but are still the third worst on record. Despite the very best efforts of healthcare professionals, cancer care in Northern Ireland is now little more than a toxic spiral, she said. "People feel let down by the system every step of the way; from the impossible challenge of securing an appointment to investigate signs and symptoms, to the disgraceful numbers of people waiting far too long to begin treatment after they receive a diagnosis. The situation is catastrophic. Lack of governance has left our health system in tatters and people like Chris are being left to pay the price." Ms Christie called on MLAs to get back to work. Politicians in NI should be ashamed that people are not getting the care they need, she said. "We need to see immediate action to reverse the political stalemate so the repeated failures which continue to plague our cancer services can be addressed, and the Cancer Strategy needs to be funded and implemented now. "The time for excuses has long gone peoples lives are literally at stake. We ask you directly MLAs, what are you waiting for? "A cancer diagnosis is difficult enough to process. We shouldnt have to shout and fight to be heard and seen and to get the care we need. When are politicians going to listen to us? What will it take for things to change? Meanwhile the head of Cancer Focus NI has warned of health risks as waiting times for cancer treatment continue to increase as the data shows that the Departments wait time targets were missed across the board. CEO Richard Spratt said treatment delays add unnecessary stress to cancer patients and increase health risks. "It is time to get Stormont back so we can start to address the serious decline in prompt access to diagnoses and treatments, he added. Cancer patients here have world-leading cancer research, cancer clinicians, and treatment plans on their doorstep, but they are not getting access to these solutions in a timely manner. That means lives are being placed at risk: each delay in treatment is a chance for the cancer to grow and spread, making it harder to beat. A look back at waiting times statistics over the last decade indicates a very worrying picture for the future if we do not get local decision-making back on track. In 2012, 99.9% of urgent breast cancer referrals were seen within the target of 14 days. Last year, that dropped to only 60.75% of patients being seen within the desired timeframe. A further target states 98% of patients diagnosed with cancer should receive their first definitive treatment within 31 days of a decision to treat. In 2012, that target fell short by 0.8%. In 2022, it had fallen short by 10.5%." In addition, Mr Spratt said 95% of patients urgently referred by a GP with a suspected cancer should receive their first definitive treatment within 62 days. Read more Co Tyrone mum campaigns to promote way to avoid hair loss during breast cancer treatment "A look back at the data in relation to that target shows us that in 2012, 80.8% of people had received their treatment within that period. In 2022, that figure stood at 38.6%, he continued. "But the fact is this is not just about statistics. These are real people, and the reality is that at least 26 people are being told they have cancer every day in Northern Ireland, with that figure expected to double by 2040. It has now been 18 months since the new Cancer Strategy for Northern Ireland was launched. "The time is now for our political representatives to get back into government and take the type of urgent and decisive action needed to improve outcomes and deliver for cancer patients. None of us know when we, or someone we love, will receive a cancer diagnosis, but as a society, we should all be able to trust that we would have timely access to treatment. Margaret Carr from the regional branch of Cancer Research UK said all health trusts missed their targets and warned cancer services here are in crisis, despite the best efforts of staff. "Almost two-thirds of people (63.1%) are waiting too long to receive a cancer diagnosis and start their treatment. This is unacceptable when a matter of weeks can be enough for some cancers to progress, she added. It's crucial patients are diagnosed at an early stage when treatment is more likely to be successful. For example, in Northern Ireland, more than 9 in 10 (95.1%) people diagnosed with bowel cancer at the earliest stage will survive their disease for five years or more, compared with less than 1 in 10 (7.9%) people diagnosed at the most advanced stage.** Delays cause additional anxiety for patients and their families during an already stressful time. With such poor waiting times, any decision to consider withdrawing additional funding to help tackle the issue is incomprehensible. This is a fixable problem. Cancer services need investment now to provide patients with timely access to diagnosis and treatment. We also need to transform cancer services for the future by funding and implementing the cancer strategy. This cant be achieved without a fully functioning Executive, which must get back to work now. Councillors in Derry City and Strabane have passed a motion calling on The Executive Office to transfer the Ebrington Square site to the local authority as soon as possible. It comes after the Belfast Telegraph revealed that no events are scheduled to take place at Ebrington Square in 2024 after uncertainty led to promoters receiving compensation for 2023 and one promoter withdrawing plans for a music event in 2024. Internal documents also revealed that an Ebrington events panel including The Executive Office (TEO) and council officers, the City Centre Initiative, Tourism NI and Visit Derry attended a meeting where members agreed that hosting raves outside a four-star hotel would not be good for business. Its understood this was prompted by complaints from The Ebrington Hotel and its owners subsequently threatening legal action. It was then agreed to scrap dance events that were scheduled for 2023, but that decision was eventually overturned following a public backlash. Sinn Fein councillor Christopher Jackson said that there was a request at a committee meeting for an urgent meeting with the Strategic Investment Board (SIB) and TEO to discuss the use and management of Ebrington Square. He proposed Derry City and Strabane District Council reaffirms its commitment to the transfer of the Ebrington site to it as soon as practicably possible. As a next step in this process, we requested that officers urgently engage with TEO so that the council can provide the management and oversight function of sustainable and cost-effective events at Ebrington Square, the proposal read. It added that the council recognises the value events bring to the city and district and commits to ensure every avenue is explored to bring events to Ebrington Square in 2024. Mr Jackson said the issues at Ebrington Square are well documented and that the site is a key economic driver for the city. What happened over recent months is deeply frustrating, he said, believing that the council is now in a much better position to manage the site. People Before Profit councillor Shaun Harkin said the Ebrington debacle is a microcosm of the way that this state works. He said it appears that people at the centre of this scandal are now backtracking. Decision-making powers need to be shifted away from a few bureaucrats, he said, to people in Derry, while consultation, he added, should be opened up to stakeholders. In his view, TEO would be quite happy to transfer responsibility for the square to the council and believed cast-iron funding guarantees were needed before any agreement. He made amendments to that effect and called on the hotel owners to donate the 150,000 ex gratia payment handed out by TEO. The Belfast Telegraph previously put that suggestion to the hotel and no response was provided. SDLP Councillor Brian Tierney described the recent turmoil at Ebrington Square as a shambles and PR disaster and said any decision around the payment rests solely with the hotel. He echoed the sentiment that the site would be far better run by local stakeholders. DUP Alderman Niree McMorris said it is a situation that could have been and should have been avoided as she voiced her support for the original proposal. Mr Harkins amendment fell, with 24 against, 12 for and one abstention. The original proposal by Mr Jackson was unanimously passed. A nine-mile bed push from Lisburn to Belfast will take place this Saturday in an effort to raise 150,000 for a mother-of-twos life-saving cancer treatment. Rita McAlonan (48) from Co Antrim was diagnosed with Metastatic breast cancer in 2021 and has been fighting a long hard battle ever since. Her husband, James, has now set up a GoFundMe page to help raise enough money to travel outside of the UK for alternative treatment. After raising over 6,500 so far, it is hoped fundraisers such as the bed push can help Ritas family achieve their goal. The organiser of Saturdays bed push, Victoria Crothers, praised Ritas determination and said her work as a mental and physical therapist has helped her own children and now its time to give something back. My childrens developments are down to the tools that Rita has given and now its our turn to give back to her because she has given so much to me and my family, said Victoria. The fundraiser is the least we can do for her. In support of her friend, Victoria and a number of other volunteers, who call themselves Mums and Chums, have organised the bed push. Starting at Smithfield Street in Lisburn at 10am, those taking part will push the specially made bed nine miles to Belfast City Hall, collecting donations along the way. We are not athletes, said Victoria. We are just hard-working mums and chums who have been touched by Ritas beautiful soul and are blessed to have her in our lives. Since being diagnosed with cancer, Rita has completed eight chemotherapy protocols over six months, undergone radical surgery and had 45 sessions of radiography that left her skin burnt and painful. However, after 15 months and still in treatment, Rita and her family received the devastating news that the cancer had recurred, as she was diagnosed with stage four secondary breast cancer. Writing on the GoFundMe page, her husband explained the treatments the family are seeking are with doctors who have perfected their techniques and are experts in the treatment Rita needs. The bed push was inspired by Victorias mother who pushed a bed in the 80s from Ballymena to Antrim for a fundraiser. We feel that the bed push is going to be a really hard task, but not as hard as what Rita has been going through every day since her diagnosis, said Victoria. Her husband James and two children, Conor and James, will be there to cheer us on. The bed that will be used this Saturday has been custom-made by Graham Duncan from Aghalee. Handles have been attached to aid the volunteers in pushing the bed. During the bed push, a pop-up event will be held at Belfasts Cornmarket between 1pm and 3pm and it is hoped Rita can attend. The bed is expected to arrive at Cornmarket around 2pm. The Church Leaders Group (Ireland) pictured after Thursday's service to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement in the Chiesa Evangelica Valdese, the Waldensian Evangelical Church, in Romes Piazza Cavour. Church leaders have thanked those who brought peace to Northern Ireland on a visit to Rome to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement. The Church Leaders Group (Ireland), comprising Catholic, Anglican, Methodist, Presbyterian and Irish Council of Churches, is in the Italian capital for a special seminar, where they will share their personal reflections of the peace. In a joint statement, they said: It is a welcome opportunity to spend time, not only reflecting on where we have come from over the past 25 years, but also looking to the future. The two-day visit begins this morning with a joint service led by the five Church leaders. Speaking ahead of the visit, British Ambassador to the Holy See Chris Trott and Irish counterpart Frances Collins, said: We are delighted to welcome the Church Leaders Group (Ireland) to Rome. For decades the Churches have played an important role in supporting peace and reconciliation. Their invaluable work continues today, as they support and guide communities across Northern Ireland navigating the very serious challenges of living in a post-conflict society. Those attending the seminar are Rt Rev Andrew Forster, president of the Irish Council of Churches; Most Rev Eamon Martin, Catholic Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of all Ireland; Most Rev John McDowell, Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of all Ireland; Rt Rev Dr Sam Mawhinney, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, and Rev David Turtle, president of the Methodist Church in Ireland. They said: We are thankful for all who worked to ensure that the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement could come into place. We are mindful, too, of all who suffered, and continue to suffer, as a result of needless violence over the decades. The Church leaders added they hope they can build on the success of the Good Friday Agreement so the peace can endure and strengthen. While we continue to recognise the obvious challenges that there are, we want to acknowledge once more that the important and vital work of peace is still an unfinished work, a work that we are all committed to actively pursuing for the common good, for all the people of Ireland, north and south, they said. We are thankful to God that the Agreement that was negotiated a quarter of a century ago, while not perfect, transformed the conflict in Northern Ireland. It is our prayer todays seminar, and our participation along with others, will contribute to a wider understanding of where we have come from and the hope that we have for the future. Belfast Pride parade takes place in Belfast City Centre. The Belfast Pride parade is the biggest event in the LGBTQIA+ calendar and seen thousand spectating and involved in the parade. Photo by Jonathan Porter / Press Eye. Northern Ireland has the lowest proportion of people aged 16 and over identifying as lesbian, gay or bisexual (LGB), according to official figures. Meanwhile, the proportion of young women across the UK identifying as LGB has more than doubled in five years and now stands at around one in 10, new data suggests. Some 10.6% of women aged 16 to 24 identified as LGB in 2022, up from 4.8% in 2017, according to estimates from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Among 16- to 24-year-old men, the proportion is slightly lower, at 7.9% in 2022 around one in 13 up from 3.8% in 2017. LGB identification is higher among young adults than in any other age group, the ONS found. A total of 9.2% of all 16- to 24-year-olds (630,000 individuals) are estimated to identify as LGB, compared with 5.1% of 25- to 34-year-olds, 3% among those aged 35 to 49 and 2% of 50- to 64-year-olds. The figure dips to 0.7% for people aged 65 and over, though this proportion has remained broadly stable in recent years and is similar to 2017. Across the whole UK population aged 16 and over, an estimated 3.3% identify as LGB, the equivalent of 1.8m people. This is up from 2.1%, or 1.1m people, in 2017. The proportion identifying as heterosexual has fallen over the same period, from 95% to 93.4%. Across the nations and regions of the UK, London has the highest proportion of people aged 16 and over identifying as LGB, at 5.3%, or about one in 20. The East Midlands has the lowest proportion among regions (2.1%), while Northern Ireland is lowest among nations (1.8%), some way behind Wales (4.3%), Scotland (3.4%) and England (3.3%). Scott Cuthbertson, director at the Rainbow Project, welcomed publication of LGB statistics for the first time. Acceptance of LGBTQ+ people can have a big impact on the way we live our lives and who we tell about who we are. Where acceptance is lower, remembering NI was the last part of the UK to both partially decriminalise same-sex activity and the last to introduce same-sex marriage, it follows that less LGBTQ+ people would have the confidence to report their sexual orientation on an official form, he said. We also know that many LGBTQ+ young people are drawn to bigger cities, like Dublin, Manchester or London, where acceptance is greater and there are more LGBTQ+ spaces. As we work for greater LGBTQ+ equality in Northern Ireland, I have little doubt these figures will increase. The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on the Irish Government to play a role in seeking an international investigation into the murder of journalist Martin O'Hagan. The unions Belfast and District Branch, which Martin used to be Secretary of, marked the 22nd anniversary of his killing earlier this week. The Sunday World journalist was shot in Lurgan as he walk home from a pub with his wife Marie on September 28, 2001 his widow passed away last April. The killing has been blamed on the Loyalist Volunteer Force (LVF). "This years anniversary takes place against the backdrop of the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation Act 2023) which limits criminal prosecutions arising from the Troubles and instead seeks to promote reconciliation by establishing an Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery, limiting criminal investigations, legal proceedings, inquests and police complaints, extending the prisoner release scheme in the Northern Ireland (Sentences) Act 1998, and providing for experiences to be recorded and preserved and for events to be studied and memorialised, and to provide for the validity of interim custody orders, an NUJ spokesperson said. Read more Legacy laws legal challenge must be heard in November, judge says The NUJ assistant general secretary has expressed exasperation and grave concern at the failure of the government to respond to its calls for an independent investigation into the murder and at the failure of the PSNI to secure any convictions in relation to the killing. Seamus Dooley said Martin was killed by a loyalist paramilitary group because of his work as an investigative journalist, exposing criminality and the accumulation of wealth through drug dealing. "There is a strong belief that those who ordered his death are protected because of collusion with individuals within the security forces, he added. "The cause of reconciliation will not be served by the ongoing silence in the face of international demands for a fully independent inquiry into his killing. "We are exasperated and gravely concerned at the failure to investigate the murder of a working journalist. It is abundantly clear that only an international investigation free from suspicion of links with the political or security establishment in any part of the UK will address the widespread concern at the murder of Martin and the litany of failure to apprehend and procedure his killers. "The work of reconciliation cannot be achieved when murders are simply set aside to be memorialised rather than investigated. The legacy which Martin sought to expose was criminality across the political divide, the abuse of influence in local communities by self-appointed gang leaders, many of whom wreaked havoc by trading in drugs. "The Irish government has a role to play in seeking an international investigation into the murder of Martin OHagan and the NUJ is calling on Micheal Martin, Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence, to lobby for such an investigation. "The Irish government, along with political parties in Northern Ireland, opposed the so-called Legacies Act. Support for an investigation into the murder of Martin OHagan is consistent with that policy. We will never accept that the OHagan file is closed. The premises was destroyed in an arson attack (Pic Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker) A grocery shop on Donegall Road in Belfast, owned by Syrian-born Ahmad Alkhamran, was targeted (Pic Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker) Race hate crimes in just one area of south Belfast have more than doubled over the past five years, amid concerns over a spate of fresh attacks over the summer. Analysis by The Detail has found that race hate crimes in Botanic have risen from 70 in 2017/18 to 147 in 2022/23. For more than a decade, Botanic has consistently topped the list of areas in Northern Ireland with the highest number of race crimes. Of the 880 race hate offences recorded in NI in 2022/23, around one in six were recorded in Botanic. And of those attacks, 80% took place in two council wards Central and Blackstaff. The area has seen a series of attacks against immigrant-owned businesses over the summer. And at an anti-racism protest earlier this week, which was held close to the scene of the attacks, protesters said they were pelted with cans and bottles. One shop owner in the area, who is from an immigrant background, said loyalist paramilitaries tried to extort money following a race hate attack in November last year. The victim, who was too frightened to be identified, said a man was arrested after he came into the shop and shouted racist abuse. After the arrest, three men approached the owner, telling them not to call the police in future, and tried to extract protection money. I was shocked, the owner said. I told them: Im a small business. Im struggling. I dont have money to give. A man from the area who frequented the shop told the owner that the three men were from loyalist group the UVF. After that, Im scared. I havent paid money, but I wont call the police now, in case they come back, the owner said. They said that many businesses in Botanic pay protection money. Most of the businesses in the area have this problem. Men come and ask for money, they offer protection, and if you dont [pay] they make it worse for you, they said. The police dont do anything. I want to just explain why people dont report or call the police. We can solve these problems, but we cant hide things. We have to be honest. They said paramilitaries often use children to attack shops in the area. The PSNI was asked about the shop owners claims of intimidation by the UVF, but the service did not respond. On August 18, a computer shop on Sandy Row was destroyed in a racially motivated arson attack. The owner, said his premises had been targeted in five attacks over two months, all of which were reported to police. On September 17, a grocery shop on Donegall Road, in Botanic, owned by Syrian-born Ahmad Alkhamran, was also destroyed in an arson attack. Pacemaker Press 18/09/23 Damaged caused as the Residents of a block of flats in south Belfast have escaped injury after the business under their homes was set on fire in a racially-motivated attack. The blaze on the Donegall Road was reported at 21:25 BST on Sunday. Police said it was the fourth incident at the Donegall Road premises in two weeks - all are being treated as racially-motivated hate crimes. During a previous attack, shutters at the premises were spray-painted with graffiti. Pic Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker He said his shop had been subjected to four racially motivated attacks in just two weeks. I have worked for four months. The shop was to open next week, he told the BBC. I have saved for seven years In just a few minutes it was all gone. Botanic is one of the most racially diverse areas in Northern Ireland, with 26.8% of residents born abroad or from an ethnic minority background. DUP South Belfast MLA Edwin Poots, Ulster Unionist deputy leader Robbie Butler and former Ulster Unionist Lord Mayor of Belfast Bob Stoker all told the BBC last week that the attacks were the fault of individuals and not part of a trend. We dont believe there is an organisation behind it, Mr Poots said. Mr Stoker said he had spoken to many people in the area about the attack on Mr Alkhamrans business and no one seems to know anything about it. Mr Butler told The Detail that he condemned all hate crime and that it was neither right, helpful or valid to label a community due to the acts of individuals. The Detail asked the PSNI what it is doing to tackle racist attacks in south Belfast and whether it is investigating possible paramilitary involvement. A spokeswoman said the service is investigating several lines of enquiry. She said a problem-solving folder has been opened, which is used when the PSNI sees emerging trends of hate crimes in specific areas. The PSNI was asked how many race hate crimes in total included paramilitary involvement, but it said it did not record those figures. In June, an Equality Commission report on racism in Northern Ireland found that many people were reluctant to report race hate attacks to police because they fear triggering an escalation in racist behaviour and this can be due to a concern that the behaviour is linked to or endorsed by paramilitary groups. PSNI Assistant Chief Constable Mark McEwan told the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee at Westminster last year that loyalist and republican paramilitaries are continuing to extort money from businesses. Key findings include a sharp decline in farmland birds, butterflies and plant species Northern Ireland is now one of the worlds most nature-depleted regions, with 12% of the species assessed in a new report threatened with extinction. The State of Nature 2023 report, a collaborative effort involving over 60 research and conservation organisations, has unveiled the devastating extent of nature loss in Northern Ireland. The study shows alarming trends highlighting the profound impact of land and sea management, along with climate change, on our wildlife. Some of the key findings include a 43% decline in farmland birds since 1996 across 17 monitored species, and a 10% average decline in breeding birds across 64 species. There was an average 16% decrease in butterfly species since 2006 spanning 14 monitored species, and a 14% average decline in 891 plant species between 1970 and 2019. Gillian Gilbert, RSPB NIs Principal Conservation Scientist and lead author of the report locally, expressed concern and said the report highlights just how much nature in Northern Ireland needs more help. Despite ongoing efforts from nature-friendly farmers, wildlife charities and all the individuals who are passionate about doing their part for nature we are still not tackling this crisis at the scale needed, she said. Urgent action is necessary to slow down biodiversity loss, and to try and reverse some of the damage of recent decades. The report also highlights the growing recognition among the public and policymakers of the value of nature, including its role in tackling climate change, and the need for its conservation. It also states that as 76% of land in Northern Ireland is used for agriculture, nature-friendly farming urgently needs to be implemented on a large scale to halt the decline in farmland wildlife. It must be considered alongside the challenge of responding to the nature and climate crisis, while still meeting peoples needs for food, energy and fuel, the report added. The Slievenacloy Nature Reserve in Lisburn. Picture by Jonathan Clarke/PA Dr Peter McEvoy, Ulster Wildlifes Director of Land Management, said it was clear we cannot continue to take nature for granted. Healthy soils, clean rivers, and thriving wildlife populations are crucial to our health and prosperity. A boost in investment from our government is badly needed to put wildlife into recovery and take action to address the climate crisis, he said. Jim Foster, Conservation Director at Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, said: The state of Northern Irelands nature should be of vital importance to all of us. Animals such as frogs, toads, newts, snakes and lizards are a fundamental part of our natural and cultural heritage, but like many of the other species and habitats covered in this report, they are increasingly under pressure from factors such as land-use and climate change. This report shows that it is possible for conservation projects to recover species populations, and how important it is that we scale up our efforts to reverse nature declines. Despite the grim statistics, the report also emphasises the potential for positive change through community initiatives, conservation projects, and legislation. It said Northern Ireland holds 10% of the UKs peatland resources, and while only 15% was assessed to be in good condition, peatland restoration projects, such as the Garron Plateau blanket bog, contribute to carbon-rich habitats and benefit both climate change mitigation and biodiversity. Mourners at Caoimhin's funeral were encouraged to wear orange clothing for ROHHAD awareness Caoimhin Adams with his parents Caitriona and Kieran, sister Aimee and brothers Aodhan and Dylan in Newtownabbey (Credit: Liam McBurney/RAZORPIX) The Adams family with political representatives from Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council The mother of a young boy who died this summer from a rare, incurable disease has praised her local council for coming together to honour her late son. Caoimhin Adams, from Newtownabbey, passed away on July 9, hours after a community fun day was organised for him. The eight-year-old had become the first person on the island of Ireland to be diagnosed with ROHHAD (rapid-onset obesity with hypoventilation, hypothalamic dysfunction, autonomic dysregulation), a chronic condition with a mortality rate of about 50% due to cardiorespiratory arrest. On Tuesday, representatives from all parties at Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council invited Caoimhins whole family to the Lord Mayors parlour for an event to commemorate him. The Adams family with political representatives from Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Caitriona Adams, Caoimhins mother, said the police also attended, as they too had come to Caoimhins fun day in July. The cross-community party was held in the late boys honour, with friends, family, emergency service workers and locals taking part. The community police for my area are exceptional. They have sent my two other boys on a motorbike course since. They are amazing, Caitriona added. On Tuesday, the council presented the Adams family with a Buzz Lightyear-themed photo book, containing pictures of Caoimhins fun day. I was so touched by the story and the community spirit of the local people who were rallying around, supporting the family to put on this special day for Caoimhin, said Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Mark Cooper. He and other councillors had attended the fun day in July and assisted the Adams family with sourcing gazebos, tables, waste collections and a photographer to capture the celebrations. What struck me most about the day was the outpouring of love from all communities for Caoimhin and how close-knit the family were, Mr Cooper said. Sadly Caoimhin passed away the following day. I feel truly humbled that I got the opportunity to meet him. Toy Story-themed photo collection made by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council in Caoimhin's memory Caitriona said councillors have also agreed to put a memorial bench at Lough Shore Park, where the Adams family often visit, and are in agreement that council buildings will be lit up in orange the hue used to represent ROHHAD year after year. The proud mum has consistently thanked both nationalist and unionist representatives in her hometown for helping make Caoimhins final days memorable and for co-operating to keep her sons legacy alive. Mourners at Caoimhins funeral had been asked by the Adams family to wear something orange for ROHHAD awareness. During the homily at St Bernards Church, Glengormley, Father Darren Brennan joked: Who else but Mr Caoimhin could have a Catholic church filled with people dressed in orange on July 11? Doesnt that just say it all? Mourners at Caoimhin's funeral were encouraged to wear orange clothing for ROHHAD awareness Caitriona said this joke was referenced multiple times at Tuesdays council event and she highlighted its importance. Father Brennan made a joke, but it is serious in that on July 11 a young boy brought Protestant and Catholic communities together, and still, to this day, he is bringing them together weeks after his passing. Caoimhin Adams is not a statistic. His legacy needs to be carried on. We still have things we can achieve to raise awareness of ROHHAD. The area around Donegall Pass and Botanic has seen an increase in racist attacks Botanic Avenue area in South Belfast. The area has seen an increase in racist attacks A South Belfast businessman has opened up about the continued racist attacks he has suffered since moving his business to the Botanic area of the city. It comes as statistics reveal race hate crimes in Botanic have more than doubled over the past five years. The business owner, who wished to remain anonymous for fear of further attacks, said he has been targeted six times in just two months. He has lived in Northern Ireland for over 10 years with his wife and son and opened his business in 2015. Botanic Avenue area The business was previously located in another area of Belfast, where he said he was not targeted in racially motivated attacks. I had my business there for over eight years and nothing happened, he said. I felt safe there, but then the building was sold in March so I moved to a new building. This building had been empty for years, so I [renovated] it for my business and brought my services here. Since moving into the property, the man explained the windows have been smashed three times, paint has been poured over the front of his business, before a bomb attack. I couldnt take anymore so I went to the local councillor and spoke to a few businesses around the area to see what I need to do, he said. I spoke to community leaders and said, What can I do? but they all said we cant do anything, we just need to wait on the police. The business owner said he now fears for the safety of his children. I have four children, three of them were born here, they see this as their home, he said. While speaking about his family, the man broke down, crying. This lady was asking my children what they didnt like, and my son said, I dont like bad men that burn my dads shop, he said. Other ethnic minority business owners in Botanic also said they have been victims of racist attacks but did not wish to discuss their experiences further. The area around Donegall Pass and Botanic has seen an increase in racist attacks Some other business owners revealed they are paying protection money to individuals who threaten them, to ensure their businesses arent targeted. The business owner who did speak out said that he would do anything to stop the attacks and he has no doubt the attacks are racially motivated. They think we have taken all their opportunities, he said. They think these opportunities are for them, not us. They think we are foreigners so we are just supposed to be homeless, but we are part of the community. They think we shouldnt progress in our lives, but we are as entitled to as them. Adding he has little faith in the PSNI in stopping the attacks, the father-of-four said he feels that responsibility is down to councillors and community leaders. They just need to speak to them, to talk more and more to them to see what the problem is, he said. They can get the people that dont like us to speak to us so we can move safely without damage. TUV chief urges DUP to stand firm at Ulster Covenant rally Jim Allister has claimed the Taoiseach wants to use the Northern Ireland Protocol to secure Irish unity and has branded him Varadkar the Venomous. Speaking at a rally on Thursday night in Markethill to mark the anniversary of the Ulster Covenant, the TUV leader urged the DUP to stand firm against the Windsor Framework and not be tempted by the baubles of office shared with IRA/Sinn Fein. Mr Allister said: When Varadkar the Venomous talks of a path to Irish unity, it is the protocol he is referring to. It has already achieved what the IRA failed to achieve in pushing the border to the Irish Sea. Any unionist who fails to recognise the intent and effect of the protocol, and who foolishly wants to operate it through Stormont, is not just deluded, but a tool willing to be used in our destruction. The TUV leader said the DUP shouldnt even contemplate restoring the political institutions. Make no mistake, the moment unionists implement the Union-dismantling protocol by operating it through Stormont, is the moment our position becomes irretrievable. The die is then cast, he warned. Stormont is the Rubicon to the Republic. Hence, the unavoidable necessity for unionism to stand firm. Markethill led the way in initiating anti-protocol protests. Tonight, in this place, let us rededicate ourselves to that cause as we hallow the memory of those who over 100 years ago recognised the defining issue as one of equal citizenship. Sir Jeffrey Donaldson and the factions vying for the steering wheel in the DUP Mr Allister said the same principles were at stake today: Our unionism finds root and security not in Stormont, or the baubles of office shared with IRA/Sinn Fein, but in the unflinching demand for equal citizenship within our own United Kingdom. That is the rock on which the protocol must be made to perish. Almost half a million men and women signed the Ulster Covenant or womens declaration in opposition to Home Rule on September 28, 1912. The TUV leader said: It was the threat of being pushed out of the UK which gave rise to the Ulster Covenant and its rallying demand for equal citizenship. Under the protocol and the Windsor Whitewash, which changes none of its essential elements, all of these core facets of equal citizenship are denied. Herein lies the parallel threat in our generation: our absorption, without consent, into an Irish republic through the stepping stone of economic unity, with our economy and trade operating under the same EU laws as in the Republic by retaining us in the same single market and customs zone. Mr Allister said unionists unalterable opposition to the iniquitous protocol was built on the foundation of equal citizenship with everyone else in the UK in being governed only by laws made in our own country. Equal citizenship also involved trading freely, without checks and tariffs, within our own country and no part of our country being deemed in trading terms foreign territory. The concept also meant living wholly within the UK single market and customs code, not the EUs and being subject only to our own courts. A Government hands-off approach on policing has led to the incomprehensible situation where gardai are poised to strike, TDs have been told. Sinn Feins Pearse Doherty told the Dail that the coalition, singling out Fine Gael in particular, had pursued a soft touch approach to policing and crime. Mr Doherty said the Garda was in crisis, as morale within the ranks was at an all-time low. The opposition TD made the claims during exchanges with Tanaiste Micheal Martin during Leaders Questions. Tanaiste Micheal Martin (Brian Lawless/PA) Unfortunately, under your watch Tanaiste, and particularly under Fine Gaels watch, morale in the gardai is at an all-time low, he said. Gardai numbers are falling as gardai leave the force, we see that year after year. Targets for new recruits are missed time and time again as people dont see a career in the Garda as an option worth pursuing anymore, and specialised units are being disbanded. Mr Doherty added: After 12 years of Fine Gael justice minister after justice minister, the gardai are in crisis and the communities are less safe than ever. So Fine Gaels soft touch approach to policing has pushed the gardai to breaking point and ordinary communities are forced to pay the price of government failure. And this is a crisis. It is a crisis and we dont need any more vague promises from government or more photo ops or glossy announcements that amounted to nothing. Government needs to get to grips with crime and they need to do it now. Mr Doherty said it was time Justice Minister Helen McEntee intervened to avert the threatened action by gardai in October and November amid their dispute with Garda Commissioner Drew Harris over rosters. The hands-off approach by the Minister for Justice is not working, he added. It is incomprehensible that she would allow this to get to the stage where the gardai have to go on strike. When will the Government end the scandal of their soft touch approach to policing so that communities can feel safe and protected? In response, Mr Martin said the record drugs haul seized by Irish authorities in a cargo ship this week was evidence there was no soft touch on crime. He highlighted that two billion euros have been allocated to the Garda this year. The issue around the Garda roster, which was introduced by the commissioner, is clearly an issue that has caused considerable unrest and concern within the ranks of An Garda Siochana, he said. The Tanaiste added: In my view these issues are best resolved within the industrial relations mechanisms and thats where they should be resolved. Because it is understood that there are concerns and legitimate genuine concerns, but the way to resolve it, with respect to the minister for justice, is through industrial relations machinery. The former legal case manager at the Post Office gave evidence to the inquiry on Thursday (Kirsty OConnor/PA) The former legal case manager at the Post Office has told the Horizon IT inquiry she had nothing to hide despite appearing to advise throwing money at a subpostmistress to keep her concerns out of the public domain. Emails sent between employees at Fujitsu the company that created the faulty accounting software showed how Mandy Talbot had suggested dealing with a subpostmistress claim of system defectiveness by saying: How much to go away and keep your mouth shut? Giving evidence to the inquiry on Thursday, Ms Talbot said she did not think she would have expressed myself in those terms saying she had absolutely no desire to hide what had happened in the case of Julie Wolstenholme. Ms Wolstenholme ran a branch in Cleveleys, Lancashire, and was pursued for 25,000 through the civil court by the Post Office. IT expert Jason Coyne was instructed to assess whether the subpostmistress was responsible for the losses at her branch, but produced a report in 2003 which said the Horizon system was clearly defective. Asked if she was worried about the effect Mr Coynes opinion might have had, Ms Talbot told the inquiry: No, because I was assured it was on a unique set of facts that had occurred in 2000, and in 2004 it simply couldnt happen. Mr Blake pressed the witness again, saying: So you werent at all worried? No, Ms Talbot replied. The witness was shown the email between two Fujitsu employees, in which they spoke of how she had advised the safest way to manage this is to throw money at it and get a confidentiality agreement signed. The email, sent by audit manager Jan Holmes to commercial and financial director Colin Lenton-Smith, continued: She is not happy with the experts report as she considers it to be not well balanced and wants, if possible, to keep it out of the public domain. Mr Holmes also appeared to make reference to how Ms Talbot had spoken of conceding that the experts report was accurate, and that it would then be a case of how much to go away and keep your mouth shut? Asked if the phrase how much to go away and keep your mouth shut were her words, Ms Talbot said: Its communication created by Jan Holmes it really doesnt sound like me. I really dont think I would have expressed myself in those terms. Mr Blake then asked: Why a confidentiality agreement? Why keep your mouth shut? Why would you want to hide what had happened in this case? Ms Talbot responded: I had absolutely no desire to hide what had happened in this case. If the matter was settled there would be no need for the experts report to be disclosed in court. If the matter was not capable of being settled then it would have been disclosed in court. Mr Blake continued: So you did not mind if publicity was shined upon this case? No, Ms Talbot replied. Mr Blake interjected: Nothing to hide? The witness responded: In effect, if it had gone into court at that time, then it might well have had an impact on (the Post Office) and its relationship with Fujitsu, but so be it. Mr Blake asked again: So, absolutely nothing to hide? Ms Talbot answered: No. Continuing to press the witness, Mr Blake said: Didnt want to hide it from public view? Ms Talbot again replied: No. The witness was then shown a separate document titled advice on evidence and quantum produced by the Post Offices instructed solicitors in the case against Ms Wolstenholme. In the document, the solicitors said they were asked to take into account that the Post Office was anxious to give Mr Coynes report about the clearly defective Horizon system as little publicity as possible. Mr Blake asked: If your view at the time was nothing to hide, why on earth would your solicitors have got the impression that the Post Office is anxious for the negative computer experts report to be given as little publicity as possible? Where do you say that was coming from? Ms Talbot replied: I cant comment. The Government announced that wrongfully convicted subpostmasters will be offered 600,000 to settle their claims. The Horizon scandal, which has been described as the most widespread miscarriage of justice in UK history, saw more than 700 Post Office branch managers handed criminal convictions after the system made it appear as though money was missing. Mohamad Al Bared has been told he may face a life term when he is sentenced (West Midlands Police/PA) A PhD student has been found guilty of designing and building a kamikaze drone capable of delivering a bomb or chemical weapon for so-called Islamic State (IS) terrorists. Jurors at Birmingham Crown Court deliberated for around six hours over two days before unanimously convicting Mohamad Al Bared, who used a 3D printer to make the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) at his Coventry home. The mechanical engineering graduate, of Kare Road, was found guilty of a single count of engaging in conduct in preparation of terrorist acts to benefit a proscribed terrorist organisation. The drone made by Al Bared for use by terrorists (West Midlands CTU/PA) Al Bared was remanded in custody and told he may face a life term when he is sentenced on November 27. The 27-year-old denied being a supporter of IS or its aims, having told jurors he had no plans to assist it in any way and that he made a drone for his own research purposes. Al Bared, who was studying at Birmingham University and specialised in laser-drilling, also claimed to have researched IS to argue against its aims with others at a mosque. But prosecutors said it was clear from encrypted online chats and other digital material that he supported IS, intended to make a single-use video-transmitting fixed-wing drone for terrorist purposes, and to travel to Africa via Turkey. Adjourning sentence after Al Bared was convicted of preparing for terrorism between January 1, 2022 and January 31 this year, Judge Paul Farrer KC said: The court is going to have to consider whether the appropriate sentence is one of life imprisonment. You have been convicted of an offence of the utmost gravity. A long prison sentence is the inevitable consequence of that but the length and nature of that sentence is a matter for careful consideration, and the court will take that decision having received input from the Probation Service. The UAV was found in a bedroom when Al Bared was arrested in January this year. Part of the drone seized by anti-terror officers (West Midlands CTU/PA) Opening the Crowns case in August, at the start of a five-week trial, prosecutor Michelle Heeley KC told the court: Police found a drone. They also found material suggesting this defendant supported Islamic State, a terrorist organisation. The court heard Al Bared, who lived with his parents, was arrested while driving at the same time as the raid took place, and had a mobile phone which police also seized. After showing the drone, which was contained in a large see-through plastic bag, to the jury, the prosecutor said it was of a type which has landing gear and a small digital camera. It had all the components required for it to fly, Ms Heeley added. We suggest it was being manufactured to deliver a bomb to fly into IS enemy territory and deliver a chemical weapon or some other kind of device. During the opening day of the trial, Ms Heeley also told how Al Bared had filled in an IS application form and set up a UK-registered company to help plans for future foreign travel. Written material saying the idea for the drone was somewhat inspired by the design of the Tomahawk missile was also put before the jury, in what the Crown said was Al Bared describing his build process. The 3D printer used by Al Bared (West Midlands CTU/PA) Ms Heeley said of the evidence found on an electronic device, which also included references to fuses, mechanical detonators and an explosive head: He is literally reporting back to someone about what it is that he is doing. What drone for legitimate use needs an explosive head? What does need an explosive head is a drone that has been designed on a missile. Al Bareds barrister, Alistair Webster KC, also made an opening speech, claiming his client had studied IS-linked material, including video of beheadings, because he wanted to debate against the terror groups views. Mr Webster said: He accepts that he is fascinated by Islamic State and its mindset, but rather than supporting it he wanted to argue against it, in the mosque, online. But Al Bared was described by anti-terror officers as someone with an extremist mindset who intended to cause mass casualties. Commenting on the investigation, Detective Chief Superintendent Mark Payne, the commander of the West Midlands Counter-Terrorism Unit, said of Al Bared: He has built in his home address, using a 3D printer, a drone. He has then researched chemicals including sarin and ricin and mustard gas. It is our clear view that this man was very, very dangerous, that he was building something that was a weapon to be used to deliver chemicals to cause harm to people who didnt share his extremist views. This is clearly somebody who had a terrorist mindset. DCS Payne said the inquiry had established that Al Bared a very, very intelligent student was planning to travel abroad to Turkey, and probably onwards. We also found an application form for Islamic State on his devices, the officer said. And that alongside all the other evidence that we had gives us a really clear picture of somebody who was intent on working with a terrorist organisation to cause mass harm, and probably fatalities to innocent people. A local Serb man walks past Kosovo police officers securing the area around the Banjska monastery in the village of Banjska, Kosovo (Visar Kryeziu/AP) Kosovos interior minister has accused Serbia of direct involvement in weekend clashes and is investigating the possibility of Russian involvement in the violence, which left four people dead and has further strained relations between the former wartime foes. One Kosovo police officer and three gunmen were killed in Sundays shootout between Serb insurgents and Kosovo police. Eight people were initially arrested but four of them have been released from custody because of a lack of evidence. Kosovo interior minister Xhelal Svecla said investigators are looking at evidence linking Russia, an ally of Serbia, to the armed assault. Russian weapons, other equipment and documents suggesting Russian involvement were discovered after the daylong gunfight, he said. A Kosovo police officer shows the bullet-riddled armoured vehicle near the Banjska monastery (Visar Kryeziu/AP) In one of the worst confrontations since Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008, about 30 masked men opened fire on a police patrol near the village of Banjska early on Sunday. They then broke down the gates of a Serbian Orthodox monastery and barricaded themselves inside with the priests and visiting pilgrims. The violence further raised tensions in the Balkan region at a time when European Union (EU) and US officials have been pushing for a deal that would normalise ties between Serbia and Kosovo. A Nato bombing campaign on Serb positions in Kosovo and Serbia led to the end of their 1998-99 war. What we know for sure is that they (the insurgents) came from Serbia, Mr Svecla said. Some of them are Kosovo Serbs, who have dual citizenship, Kosovo and Serbian citizenship, that, by our intelligence information, were trained in camps in Serbia. We found some documents which lead us to a suspicion that there were individuals coming from Russia too, he said. For the equipment, we have evidence, but for the people we still have only suspicion. A painted and damaged portrait of Russias President Vladimir Putin near the town of Zvecan, Kosovo (Visar Kryeziu/AP) There are fears in the West that Russia, acting through Serbia, may want to destabilise the Balkans and shift at least some of the attention from Moscows full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russia has voiced support for Serbia over the clashes, blaming the West for allegedly failing to protect Kosovo Serbs. Serbias president, Aleksandar Vucic has denied claims that Serbia was involved in the clash, saying the gunmen were local Kosovo Serbs who no longer want to withstand the terror of Kosovos ethnic Albanian authorities. Mr Vucics statements have portrayed the gunmen as heroes and a national day of mourning was held for the three killed Serbs in both Serbia and northern Kosovo where they represent a majority. After a meeting on Thursday with Danish foreign minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen, Mr Vucic described the situation as the most complicated and dangerous so far, blaming the tensions on the policies of Kosovos government and urging international help to protect ethnic Serbs. Serbias chief negotiator with Kosovo, Petar Petkovic, demanded an independent investigation into the killing of the three Serb gunmen, saying they were brutally executed after surrendering to Kosovo police. He said that Belgrade has witnesses and evidence, including photographs, but did not make them public. Mr Svecla said that, based on the gathered evidence and drone footage, some of the assailants, who he referred to as terrorists, wore face masks throughout the operation. Kosovo police officers from the Special Intervention Unit escort one of the arrested Serb gunmen out of court (Visar Kryeziu/AP) Even the members of the group who were arrested didnt know who they were, he said. So they are either high officials from the security sector of Serbia or they might be directly coming from Russia itself. The interior minister said the aim of the operation appeared to be the seizure of northern Kosovo with the ultimate goal of seceding from the rest of the country. They had a 100 more uniforms, Mr Svecla said. They were planning to recruit more people within (the communities) where Serbs live Kosovo institutions would have to deal with the few hundred terrorists in a scenario which they planned. He said that judging from a large cache of weapons found at the scene of the clash, the attackers planned to heavily arm at least a couple of hundred people. Uniforms, personal armour, Kalashnikovs, sniper rifles, pistols. All this tells us there was equipment for a couple of hundred people together with logistics. It was equipment and weapons for a whole battalion, he said. People light candles for the three killed Serbs in northern Serb-dominated part of ethnically divided town of Mitrovica, Kosovo (Bojan Slavkovic/AP) The danger of a new insurgency is not over, Mr Svecla said. We dont have clashes but we have information that training of these terrorists continues in Serbia, he said. There are still people in Kosovo who are part of this group. Serbia and Kosovo, a former province belonging to Belgrade, have been at odds for decades. Their 1998-99 war left more than 10,000 people dead, mostly Kosovo Albanians. Kosovo unilaterally declared independence in 2008 but Serbia has refused to recognise the move. The EU, with the backing of the US, has been brokering negotiations between the two sides. In February, Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti and Mr Vucic gave their approval to a 10-point EU plan for normalising relations, but the two leaders have since distanced themselves from the agreement. Philippine Sen. Risa Hontiveros discusses the alleged crimes committed by leaders of the Socorro Bayanihan Services Inc. as Sen. Ronald dela Rosa listens during a committee hearing in Manila, Sept. 28, 2023. The Philippine Senate on Thursday detained a young self-styled cult leader and three of his lieutenants after holding them in contempt for dodging questions in an inquiry into allegations they forced children to marry adults in their southern community. The victims parents were duped into believing that the cult leader, 22-year-old Jey Rence Quilario, also called Senior Agila, was the reincarnation of the Sto. Nino or the child Jesus, senators alleged. Sen. Risa Hontiveros, chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Women and Children, called for the investigation of Quilarios group, the Socorro Bayanihan Services Inc. (SBSI) which controls about 3,000 members more than half of them children in a hinterland area called Kapihan in Socorro town, southern Surigao del Norte province. In the mountains of Kapihan, in the hands of the cult, there are children continuing to be abused, so the government was racing against time, Hontiveros said. Based on those we have interviewed, those who do not follow the rules are kept in a fox hole, paddled or are made to swim in what they call the aroma beach, which is what they called a hole dug in the ground filled with human excrement and urine. Forced child marriages The senator presented Jane, 15, (not her real name to protect her identity) who said she recalled being coerced into marrying and sleeping with an 18-year-old man she had never met. This directive, Jane said, came from Quilario who acted as the matchmaker. She further claimed their community secretary would compile a list of single members, including girls as young as 12 and men of at least 18. From this list, Quilario would select the pair approved by God. Senior Agila is the one who chooses the pair. You cant refuse because they claim that its Gods will, she said. We were later brought to a room where our leader told my husband to rape me. Jane said Quilario mandated that every member must have a partner and engage in sexual relations with that partner after marriage. This was a requirement in the cult and would guarantee a place in heaven. Quilario vehemently denied the accusation. There is no truth to that. I cannot do that, he said. The children are only boasting. Quilario, who has finished only grade 8, also denied accusations that he barred children from going to school. That is not true. The children are allowed to go out. They can study. No one is stopping them, he claimed. Still, the cult leader and three members with him, Mamerto Galanida, Janeth Ajoc and Karren Sanico, were cited for contempt and ordered detained at the Senates detention facility pending an investigation. Riza Rafonselle Taruc-Timcang, the mayor of Socorro, backed allegations that children were barred from leaving the groups mountain community. In 2019, there was a massive dropout of enrollees from elementary and high school. Only 30% of children in the community are allowed to go to school so they can claim the governments cash aid, the mayor told the senators. Sally Hans Barbaso, director of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in the southern region, reported that his office had issued two summonses to the groups leaders in May. While none appeared in person, they sent a lawyer to communicate with investigators. Based on the statements of our witnesses, they have firearms and are ready to fight, Barbaso told the hearing. The bureau forwarded the case to the provincial prosecutor for the potential filing of charges against them, Barbaso said. These charges include illegal detention and child abuse. Not long ago, another spiritual leader found himself facing charges linked to sexual abuse and other crimes. Megachurch founder and Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, identified as former President Rodrigo Dutertes spiritual adviser, is sought by United States authorities on criminal charges. In November 2022, a U.S. grand jury charged Quiboloy on suspicion of orchestrating a sex-trafficking operation that coerced girls as young as 12 to have sex with him or risk eternal damnation. The Philippines justice department has said it was willing to extradite the pastor if U.S. authorities send a request. So far, the department says it has not received one. Richel V. Umel in Iligan city, Philippines, contributed to this report. Chaiwat Limlikit-aksorn, former chief of Kaeng Krachan National Park, talks to reporters as he arrives at the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases in Bangkok, Sept. 28, 2023. Updated at 10:50 a.m. ET on 2023-09-28 A Thai court on Thursday dismissed a murder charge against a former chief park ranger and his subordinates over the disappearance of an ethnic Karen activist, following nearly a decade of proceedings that have put a spotlight on judicial integrity. The judges said that the testimonies of the accused, Chaiwat Limlikit-aksorn, the former park ranger at Kaeng Krachan National Park, and his three ex-staffers, were dubious, but there wasnt sufficient proof that they had killed. The suspects were indicted on five charges last year in relation to the 2014 disappearance of Porlajee Rakchongcharoen, also known as Billy, who was an advocate for the Karen tribal community. The day Billy went missing, the rangers had detained him for questioning over the alleged illegal possession of honey. On Thursday, however, the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases found Chaiwat guilty only of misconduct, throwing out more serious charges of murder, unlawful detention, concealment of a corpse and intimidation. The three other defendants were acquitted of all charges. The first defendant (Chaiwat) is guilty for arresting Porlajee in possession of illegal honey, but failing to report the case and bring Porlajee to investigators this was misconduct. He is sentenced to three years in jail, while all other charges are dropped the judges said in their ruling. Though the defendants testimonies were suspicious, there was no adequate evidence to show that they committed a crime, the judges said in their ruling. The testimony of the prosecutors witnesses also "did not carry weight to prove that the four defendants killed Porlajee premeditatedly," they added. The court specializes in prosecuting state officials and others implicated in offenses related to bribery, intimidation, coercion and other malfeasance. Chaiwat, who is currently director of the governments national park division, was released on bail of 800,000 baht ($21,700). Thursdays verdict was billed as a test for the Thai judicial system and in particular its commitment to solving enforced disappearances. The outcome, however, was labeled a disappointment by human rights advocates. The system allows government officials to stay in power for nine years, where they could have the opportunity to conceal evidence while the plaintiffs could not seek the truth, said Pornpen Khongkachonkiet, the director of the Cross Cultural Foundation. Billys widow, Pinapa Prueksawan, said after the ruling she was lost for words. I have been fighting all along because I want to know where Billy has gone, she told reporters through tears. Billys widow, Pinapa Prueksawan, talks to reporters after hearing the verdict in Bangkok, Sept. 28, 2023. [Nontarat Phaicharoen/BenarNews] Billy, who fought for land rights after Chaiwat allegedly sought to move ethnic people from Kaeng Krachan National Park, went missing on April 17, 2014, after park officers stopped him at a checkpoint while he was traveling to meet Karen villagers. Billy was to testify the next day in a case filed by Karen farmers against Chaiwat, the chief park officer at the time, and others. The locals alleged that the park officials had ransacked and burned their homes and properties in nearby Pongluek-Bangkloy in 2011. Kaeng Krachan, Thailands largest national park, is home to ethnic Bwa GNaw people, also known as Karen, Kariang or Yang, who are members of a hill tribe scattered across Myanmar, Laos and Thailand. Karen communities sometimes practice slash-and-burn farming, which can lead to conflict with forestry officials, especially when certain zones are declared forest reserves or protected national parkland. Human Rights Watch said Billy was also carrying case files and related documents when he was detained, adding those files were never recovered. Chaiwat was acquitted over insufficient evidence in 2014. Billys family sued Chaiwat for the disappearance, but the case was dismissed after a judge ruled there that there was not enough evidence to prosecute. The park ranger and his aides had told police they released Billy after questioning him for illegally gathering wild honey. Later, with the help of rights advocates, Billys widow lodged a new complaint asking DSI to reopen the case. In September 2019, DSI members found bone fragments in an oil tank submerged inside the national park reservoir. After DNA analysis confirmed the missing activists remains, officials issued arrest warrants two months later. The four turned themselves in to authorities in Bangkok. Citing a lack of evidence, a Thai public prosecutor in January 2020 announced that the charges against the four, including murder, were dropped. The case took a new turn in 2022 when the new leader of the DSI assumed office. The Thai Attorney Generals Office later indicted Chaiwat in September of last year. Amnesty International regional researcher Chanatip Tatiyakaroonwong condemned Thursdays ruling. It's disappointing for the family who has been fighting this issue for almost 10 years, he told Agence France-Presse. 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. The stakes are high in Michael Frayns Copenhagen, which, despite its burdensome torrent of talk, is being given a vigorous, expertly acted production at Berkshire Theatre Groups Unicorn Theatre through Oct. 29. Stay up to date on Berkshires news with Berkshires in Brief, our free daily newsletter PITTSFIELD Downtown business owners are frustrated by conditions on North Street. And it all boils down to wanting the city's historic retail hub to be two things: clean and safe. "We're all really angry. We're all really tired, frustrated, scared. A lot of us have left empty teeth on North Street, and a lot of us are wondering, are we next?" Laurie Tierney said of the street's empty storefronts. Tierney and her husband, David, own Hotel on North, and Wednesday morning they hosted an invite-only forum at which she and a few other downtown business owners asked questions of mayoral candidates Peter Marchetti and John Krol. The forum was centered on the attendees' concerns for the main drag. They discussed issues of economic hardship, addiction and public safety. Without naming Mayor Linda Tyer, Tierney said the "failure of our administration" to help and listen to North Street business owners makes them angry. Dave Tierney threw open the forum to questions posed to the two candidates hoping voters will hire them to helm the city for the next four years. The way Laurie Tierney sees it, there are examples of communities getting it right all around. She rattled off Stockbridge, Great Barrington and Worcester like Pittsfield, a former mill city as examples of communities that are getting it right. Both candidates called for more police presence, with Marchetti noting the next mayor will be selecting the new permanent police chief that "gets to pick the philosophy of how we do policing in the city." A note to our readers Our investigation requires more time before The Berkshire Eagle has a story to publish on mayoral candidate John Krols release Tuesday night of certain bank and credit card statements. On Wednesday, we reported the release of those materials and that we would be reviewing them. Mr. Krol maintains that the materials he provided to The Berkshire Eagle will prove his contention that $6,800 from the Animal Dreams account to his American Express account was a bank mistake. Since the material he provided raises more questions for us than it answers, we need more time to dig. Nothing in the material causes us to question the facts in the story The Eagle broke last week. Meanwhile, Mr. Krol also has accepted our invitation to meet today for an interview about the materials. The Berkshire Eagle thanks its readers for understanding that we are conducting the due diligence required before publishing a story on this matter. Kevin Moran, executive editor Krol talked about filling empty storefronts by helping to press for historic tax credits for developers, addressing blight and getting rid of graffiti. Marchetti said the city needs to focus on driving more people downtown for cultural events and holding department heads accountable for public services. Marchetti said the issues seen downtown are part of the national mental health and substance use crisis. He said he'd convene a task force to bring together social services agencies, while adding police foot patrols and outreach by social workers. "This isn't a Pittsfield problem, it's a national problem, and we need help," he said. Krol said the pay for social workers in the private sector is too low, and that's causing staffing issues. "Frontline pay is so low that you're seeing rapid turnover," Krol said. "I'd like to work with these agencies to get the pay higher for these individuals." Both candidates want to stop people from panhandling. Krol said he's hearing from people about "aggressive" panhandlers, and that he wants police out on patrol at targeted times, like when shows let out and at the conclusion of business days. Marchetti said he filed a petition that would ban people from standing in median strips, which will soon be debated by the City Council. It's a proposal that District Attorney Timothy Shugrue has told The Eagle that he has asked the Council to pursue. Marchetti's fear is that people will stand elsewhere, such as in front of businesses, to ask for money if they can't stand in the medians of city streets. He suggested looking into ordinances passed in other communities that make it so "you can't stand in the same place for more than 10 minutes." Before the event wound to a close, JP Galli, the general manager of Hotel on North, asked the candidates to consider the small steps they could take to help people suffering from addiction. He summed up the qualities he'll be looking for in his pick for mayor. "I'm not looking for somebody with a huge ego," he said. "What I'm looking for is somebody who's humble, who can sit back, take a look at North Street, and see the small things that are happening here. How are we going to be the solution?" A note to our readers Our investigation requires more time before The Berkshire Eagle has a story to publish on mayoral candidate John Krols release Tuesday night of certain bank and credit card statements. On Wednesday, we reported the release of those materials and that we would be reviewing them. Mr. Krol maintains that the materials he provided to The Berkshire Eagle will prove his contention that $6,800 from the Animal Dreams account to his American Express account was a bank mistake. Since the material he provided raises more questions for us than it answers, we need more time to dig. Nothing in the material causes us to question the facts in the story The Eagle broke last week. Meanwhile, Mr. Krol also has accepted our invitation to meet today for an interview about the materials. The Berkshire Eagle thanks its readers for understanding that we are conducting the due diligence required before publishing a story on this matter. Kevin Moran, executive editor Start the day with the lastest headlines Stay up to date on Berkshires news with Berkshires in Brief, our free daily newsletter Correction: An earlier edition of this story incorrectly stated Rene Wood's role on the Sheffield Select Board. SHEFFIELD Teachers unions in two South County school districts would have to enter collective bargaining if the districts merge, and there are no guarantees that salaries will be boosted for all teachers, a lawyer for one of the districts said at a forum Wednesday night. Nor are there guarantees, said Southern Berkshire Regional School District attorney Joshua R. Coleman, about other aspects of the proposed merger between the district and neighboring Berkshire Hills Regional School District. Coleman, a labor and school law specialist, presented his analysis of the regional agreement the contract that would govern the newly formed Southern Berkshire Hills district should the voters of all eight towns in both districts approve the merger on Oct. 23. While the agreement stipulates the way all the towns and the schools would commingle and pay for education, Coleman listed what isnt spelled out in that document: these include the length of bus rides, curriculum and the ultimate construction costs of a new high school at Berkshire Hills current Monument Mountain Regional High School in Great Barrington. You have to clarify what youre voting on and what youre not voting on, he said, noting the agreement is the master document that residents have to approve. The regional agreement was approved Tuesday night in a 16 to 5 vote, with three absences, by the 8 Town Regional School Planning Board. This started the 30-day clock for separate town meetings in all eight towns to take a vote at the same time 6 p.m. Oct. 23. If not all towns agree, there is no merger, but there will be the opportunity for changes and a later revote. Another forum on Oct. 4 The Eagle will hold an informational forum on the merger at 7 p.m. Oct. 4 in The Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center in Great Barrington. The 8 Town Regional School District Planning Board and Southern Berkshire officials will be on hand to answer community questions. Coleman and his law partner Nancy Campany were on hand for Wednesday's forum at the Mount Everett Regional School auditorium to answer questions from residents and school officials. Roughly 120 people attended the Conversations with the Superintendent," held with the Southern Berkshire School Committee to pick through and digest the 30-page document. The Southern Berkshire School Committee had voted to exclude proponents who led the merger study and Planning Board members from making presentations or answering questions at the forum. Chair Lucy Prashker and project manager Jake Eberwein attended and will make their presentation on Oct. 11. The 24-panel board has studied a potential merger for three years with backing from state grants to hire consultants, do research and outreach. With dissent from some on the board and many in the Southern Berkshire community, the panel believes the merger is a way to keep education strong in rural districts, as well as curb the effects of ongoing budget hikes and flat state reimbursements amid enrollment declines. The board has gone deep into the finances of a merger, studied bus routes and all the potential educational and financial benefits to rural towns. Its reports can be viewed on its website. It recommends a merger of districts, and consolidating the two high schools into a new building in Great Barrington. All the elementary and middle schools remain as they are. But it is the lack of guarantees locked into that agreement that worries some. Those are hopes, those are dreams, those are our aspirations, good intentions with wonderful work, said Rene Wood, is a member of the Sheffield Select Board but spoke as an individual. But what you're voting on is what's in the regional agreement. Wood made her own presentation about the agreement and her concerns are about what isn't spelled out in it. She also worries about the the power of the transition committee. Prashker, the Planning Board chair, said that Southern Berkshire towns have more power on that panel a total of six votes to Berkshire Hills five. So when we're worried and were fearful about what this transition committee is going to do well, this transition committee is us, said Prashker, who lives in Alford. A man bathes in a hole of ice water in the form of a Georgian cross last January on a lake in South Georgia during a celebration of the Epiphany. The country, which has a deep connection to Christianity, is teeming with ancient Orthodox churches, monasteries and gilded icons. As I have been going about my weeks, the tiny book of Jude continues to show up in my life. To be honest, this book has never been that significant to me. It has been a quick read at the end of the New Testament to get to Revelation. It literally has one chapter. This is by far not the longest book in the Scriptures, it is actually the 5th smallest book in the entire Bible. However, the size of a message does not dictate its relevance and value. Jude is a book of great wisdom for believers. Today we will look at how Jude helps us understand the culture today. What Do We Know about the Book of Jude? Bible Charts shares some fun facts about the book. It says that Jude was likely written between A.D. 66-80. Jude was Jesus brother, which we can safely assume as Jude 1:1 shares that he is a servant of Jesus Christ, just like James starts the book of James, and a brother of James. The book was not written to a specific group of people or church, but rather to all believers. What Jude Says to the Sexually Immoral Culture One of the most prevalent parts of our current society is the loud messages of sexuality. It would appear that there used to be some sense of discretion and guilt, where now it seems as if we are in a society who can no longer blush. We know that there is Nothing new under the sun (Ecclesiastes 1:9). However, the enemy is using new technology and resources with the same old message. His goal is to blind and distract as many people from true freedom that he can in his limited time. The sad thing is that he is good at his job. The good news is that Jesus already won and His Spirit lives in believers everywhere. Jude 8 says, In the same way these people relying on their dreams defile their flesh, reject authority, and slander glorious ones. We live in a feelings-based culture. People everywhere are relying on their dreams. I recently heard it said that feelings are like children. The speaker said, You would never put a child in the trunk of a car, but you would never put a child in the driver seat either. Feelings should be recognized and valued, however they should not control us or lead our decisions. Think about how Gen Z is such an empathetic group of people who have a lot of compassion; this is beneficial and beautiful. However they are also the most anxious and depressed generation. Feelings might mean grace upon grace, but there needs to be truth to steady us. If we view life and sexuality solely from the perspective of what makes us happy, we are making ourselves to be gods. We become our own idols. Life becomes about what I want, not what the Lord wills. The book of Jude sheds light on this way of living. Jude 7 says, Likewise, Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding towns committed sexual immorality and perversions, and serve as an example by undergoing the punishment of eternal fire. Jude was sharing about some of the most famous sexually skewed cultures in history. This concept of humanity seeking after sexual pleasure and demoralizing people is vivid around us everywhere today. He elaborates in verse 10, And what they do understand by instinct like irrational animals by these things they are destroyed. We are in a culture that quite honestly values you do you and your truth is your truth. Working in college ministry I see many young people seeking after their own pleasure and glory in the midst of major identity crises. Just like always, people are asking Who am I? And Why am I here? We can be aware that in the midst of these good questions is a seeking heart. When we look around, it is easy to be angry at a society that is coming after young people with pornography and sexualized messaging, however we can come in with the gospel of hope. We can point them to the Greater One who will set them free. Although there might be a culture of irrational animals. There is a spiritual army of believers standing on the front lines of this battle with the Holy Spirit. We can live differently and love differently and share the truth of the gospel. This means that we will not fit in and we will be outcast often by others. However, it does mean that we can glorify God with how we offer our lives as sacrifices of worship to Him. We can avert our eyes, think about our speech, and make decisions that honor the Lord in a world that seeks sexual pleasure as their god. We can have accountability with other believers in Christ who can walk alongside of us in the pursuit of purity. What Jude Says to False Teachers When we think about all of the false teachers out there, it can be overwhelming. There are so many messages that claim the name of Jesus which have been twisted for personal gain. Jude warns us of this practice. Whether it is being aware of influencers we follow on social media or being cautious of what local Bible study leader we sit under, it matters who we invite to speak into our lives. Ultimately Gods Word is the final authority. When an individual or a group is adding or subtracting from the Bible, they are following in the footsteps of Eve who took the fruit. They are trying to be in control of something they should never have taken on, and the result is chaos. We make terrible gods. Only the Lord is deserving of being sovereign. Pray that He reveals any teaching or person sharing falsehood around you. Be aware and ask good questions. Use the Bible as your guide for truth. Deuteronomy 32:4 says, He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he. Jude compares these people to dangerous reefs, shepherds looking after themselves, and waterless clouds to name a few. They appear beautiful, helpful, or seem supportive, but they are only looking out for themselves. It causes me to think about Satan being described as an angel of light in 2 Corinthians 11:14. In the church today there are false teachers. We must be on our guard and watchful of them. We should not be paranoid, but prayerful as we see who is true and who is false. This should not cause us fear, but lead us to discernment. Jesus Is Still Reigning Jude reminds us that in a time of great confusion and deception, that Jesus is still reigning. Maybe you feel discouraged or are tempted to despair at the news of today or the latest challenges young people are facing. The future can certainly look grim at times. However, Jude reminds those who put their faith in Jesus that they have eternal security and hope in Him. Jesus is still on the throne. We do not have to be afraid. We do not have to wonder where God is. He is right here with us. The enemy is fighting, but our Savior has won. Jude ends his book with this encouragement. Jude 20-21 says, But you, dear friends, as you build yourselves up in your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting expectantly for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ for eternal life. He goes on to motivate the reader to have mercy on others and rely on the Spirit to help them from stumbling in these times. God be glorified now and always. If you are feeling worried about the troubles of this world, that is legitimate, however may Jude remind us all that we have the victory in Christ and we do not have to live in fear. We can stand firm in our faith with the help of God. We can see with clarity what is true and we know that we have His presence with us always. Photo credit: SparrowStock Emma Danzeys mission in life stems from Ephesians 3:20-21, inspiring young women to embrace the extraordinary. One of her greatest joys is to journey with the Lord in His Scriptures. She is wife to Drew for over two years and mom to baby Graham. Drew and Emma serve with Upstate CRU college ministry in South Carolina. Emma is an avid writer for Salem Web Network and provides articles on the Bible, life questions, and on the Christian lifestyle. Her article on Interracial Marriage was the number 1 viewed article on Crosswalk for the year 2021. All the glory to the Lord! She had the joy of hosting Her Many Hats podcast where she explored the many roles that women play while serving One God. Most recently, Emma has released her first Bible Study Book, Wildflower: Blooming Through Singleness. Emma enjoys singing/songwriting, fitness classes, trying new recipes, home makeover shows, and drinking tea! During her ministry career, Emma recorded two worship EP albums, founded and led Polished Conference Ministries, ran the Refined Magazine, and served in music education for early childhood. Emma also had the privilege of having been a national spokesperson for Mukti Mission based out of India. Mukti has been working to restore shattered lives in India for over 120 years. You can view her articles through her blog at emmadanzey.wordpress.com and check out her Bible Study videos on Instagram @Emmadanzey. LISTEN: Three Common Obstacles to Understanding the Bible 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: 5 Verses on Strength for When You Feel Weak Video stock video and music probided by SoundStripe One of the struggles Christians have historically faced is figuring out how to be in the world without being of the world. While the Jews had historical customs, dress, a unique language, and other cultural hallmarks that distinguished them as Gods people, as gentiles put their faith in Jesus Christ, they found themselves called to a new way of living in their communities. For some people, there was confusion and concern, while others experienced newfound freedom they misunderstood. The Church in Corinth was full of people who believed, but their Greek background led to early misinterpretations and outright bad behavior, including women shaving their heads in the manner of pagan temple prostitutes. The Apostle Paul wrote a letter to the church admonishing them for several issues, including the behavior of some of the women, stating, For if a wife will not cover her head, then she should cut her hair short. But since it is disgraceful for a wife to cut off her hair or shave her head, let her cover her head (1 Corinthians 11:6). Over time, outside of the specific context in which Paul wrote this letter, some have interpreted this verse to mean all Christian women should cover their heads. Understanding the context, as well as what freedom in Christ really means, reveals that Paul was writing to those women that they needed to dress appropriately for their culture, not dictating that all believing women needed to cover their heads. Does the Bible Mention Head Coverings? In the Book of 1 Corinthians, Paul was addressing a church consisting of gentiles, which at the time had multiple issues within it. There was adultery, bad doctrine, and many concerning behaviors. As he addressed those behaviors, he writes, For if a wife will not cover her head, then she should cut her hair short. But since it is disgraceful for a wife to cut off her hair or shave her head, let her cover her head (1 Corinthians 11:6). This verse occurs as part of the broader conversation. Paul discussed the importance of understanding, All things are lawful, but not all things are helpful. All things are lawful, but not all things build up (1 Corinthians 10:23). Just because there are things Christians can do, that doesnt mean it is edifying for the believer or glorifying to God. In that light, he addresses the question of whether or not the women of Corinth, who culturally would have been expected to wear a head covering, should continue to do so. Should Christian Women Wear Head Coverings? Like many questions of should Christians do something that falls outside a sin issue, ultimately it will come down to the personal conviction of the believer. In many countries, it is still considered modest, or sometimes even practical, for a woman to cover her head. In others, men cover their heads. Not doing so sends a signal that a woman is immodest, perhaps in a certain scandalous profession, or that she is sexually available. In these cases, Paul would probably encourage the women in these cultures to cover their heads, since that is appropriate for their context. Paul gave general recommendations for Christian behavior, including how men and women were to conduct themselves, in several other letters to other churches. However, he never brings up head coverings again. He addresses marital relationships more than once, appropriate conduct amongst brethren and out in the world, proper doctrine, and other topics regularly. If it were truly a mandate of Christian womanhood to wear a head covering, it can be safely assumed he would have addressed it. Some of this debate is brought on by theologians who remove the original cultural context in which Pauls letter was written. Where was Paul from? Who were the people he was writing to? What was the common attire for their regions? Part of the concern of women going uncovered was that it sent cultural signals of moral degradation. In the middle east, where Paul was from, it was common for women to wear head coverings. In both Israel and Corinth, women usually kept their hair long. In Greece, women would shave their heads to indicate they were temple prostitutes. So when a Christian woman threw off her head covering and shaved her hair, it was a provocative thing to do in Corinth, and did not send a signal to the non-believing Greeks that she was a Christian. Instead, she was signaling something very different. When someone only looks at the command for the women Paul was addressing to cover their heads, they are forgetting that head coverings exist across different cultures for different purposes. Another important piece of cultural context is that in Corinth, women wore head coverings to show they were married, and submitted to their husbands. A woman going out without her head covered would have indicated she wasnt married, or that she was not submitted, possibly even unfaithful, in her marriage. Another key verse that contributes to the idea that Christian women do not need to wear head coverings, either in worship or out in the world, is a verse later in that same passage. Judge for yourselves: is it proper for a wife to pray to God with her head uncovered? Does not nature itself teach you that if a man wears long hair it is a disgrace for him, but if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For her hair is given to her for a covering (1 Corinthians 11:13-15). A womans hair is her covering, not a piece of cloth. Paul even called on his audience to look around them and see that women have a tendency to grow their hair long as a general rule, though not as an absolute. Head coverings in some cultures symbolize modesty, but if it is not culturally dictated, the head covering is not serving to protect a womans modesty, or her virtue, or her marital status. Just as men can approach God in any state of need, so can a woman. In her time of joy or distress, in worship or contemplation, she can cry out to God without her head being covered. What Denominations and Sects within Christianity Wear Head Coverings? There are some denominations and sects within Christianity that believe this statement from Paul is prescriptive to all churches across time, and not just specific to the situation in Corinth. Some denominations that encourage women to cover their heads full time, not just in worship include those of an Anabaptist tradition such as the Mennonites, the Amish, and the Plymouth Brethren. Some more conservative Catholic and Orthodox families cover their heads as well full time, while others only cover during the worship service, called the liturgy. Depending on how conservative the individual church is, they may or may not require the covering, or leave it up to the person. How Should We React to Christians Who Feel Differently about This? Anytime there is a sincere disagreement with regards to conviction, or something in which the Bible is silent or vague, it is not a reason to begin arguing, disliking one another, or assuming that someone who feels differently is not saved. Rather, believers should be respectful of one anothers differences. In his letter to the Church in Rome Paul presents the solution: "As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions. One person believes he may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables. Let not the one who eats despise the one who abstains, and let not the one who abstains pass judgment on the one who eats, for God has welcomed him. Who are you to pass judgment on the servant of another? It is before his own master that he stands or falls. And he will be upheld, for the Lord is able to make him stand (Romans 14:1-4). Every person has their own struggles, their own conscience, and their own conviction about how to carry out their relationship with God. Ultimately, every man and woman will stand before God and give an account, even believers though they will not be judged for their sins as a nonbeliever. It is down to the conscience of each Christian woman. Though some disagree, most theologians and denominations agree that Paul addressed head coverings as an element of the culture. Sources Clouse, Bonnidell. Women in Ministry Four Views. eBook: InterVarsity Press, 2010. Grudem, Wayne. Evangelical Feminism & Bibilical Truth. Wheaton: Crossway, 2004. Phillips, Davis. Headcovering Throughout Christian History. eBook: 2014. Photo credit: Getty Images/KARRASTOCK Bethany Verrett is a freelance writer who uses her passion for God, reading, and writing to glorify God. She and her husband have lived all over the country serving their Lord and Savior in ministry. She has a blog on graceandgrowing.com. Related podcast: 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. Related video: Stock Footage & Music Courtesy of Soundstripe.com Thumbnail by Getty Images BillOReilly.com is not available in this country. We apologize for any inconvenience. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) provided financial support for the innovation The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT-K) has developed a novel technology titled, A Continuous Lung Health Monitoring System. The technology has been innovated by a group of inventors from IIT Kanpur, IIT Kharagpur, and the International Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Naya Raipur. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India has provided financial support for the innovation. The technology has been protected by Indian Patent application no. 202311027111. The technology is a low-cost, ubiquitous, unobstructive, and compact system that can help healthcare teams to track patients lung health status. It offers rapid access to lung disease data and facilitates the patient to monitor the disease at the convenience of sitting anywhere. The system includes an acoustic mask with highly sensitive sound sensors and an intelligent corded device to sense the inaudible breathing sounds from the users mouth and nose. The corded device of the mask consists of a Wi-Fi module for sharing the lung health status with the health-care provider. The device is equipped with a highly-durable battery that provides seamless continuous monitoring and a local storage unit that stores the processed audio data for long-term inferences and a processing unit that has inbuilt memory and microprocessor. This real-time continuous monitoring system assists doctors in responding promptly to any possible change or deterioration in the health status. The device will have far-reaching impact on patient health monitoring market as going by a global report from the US-based Markets and Markets, it has been estimated that the monitoring devices are expected to be $65.4 billion by 2027 growing at a CAGR of 9.1% over the forecast period. Glenmark will undertake registration of the product in South Africa and in the UK Ireland-based Cosmo Pharmaceuticals N.V. and Glenmark Specialty S.A., a subsidiary of Mumbai-based Glenmark Pharmaceuticals have announced the signing of distribution and license agreements for Winlevi (clascoterone cream 1%) in Europe and South Africa. Under the terms of the agreements, Glenmark will receive from Cassiopea, a subsidiary of Cosmo, the exclusive right to commercialise Winlevi in 15 EU countries (Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Hungary, Iceland, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Spain and Sweden) as well as in South Africa and the UK. Cassiopea shall be responsible for the Centralised Marketing Authorisation at the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and Glenmark will be responsible for the registration of the product in South Africa and in the UK. Cosmo will be the exclusive supplier of the product. Cassiopea will receive an upfront payment of $5 million, further double-digit regulatory and sales milestones and agreed double-digit royalties on net sales. Winlevi has been approved by the United States Food & Drug Administration (US FDA) as a novel drug with a unique mechanism of action for the topical treatment of acne in patients aged 12 years and older. It is a first-in-class topical androgen receptor inhibitor that tackles the androgen hormone component of acne and is the first new mechanism of action in acne approved by the US FDA since 1982. The EU acne market is projected to grow from $928.7 million in 2021 to $1,297.0 million in 2028. Across Europe, over 90% of people aged 11 to 30 years are affected by acne; with a rising prevalence among teenagers, which is driving the market's growth. Allegra Healthcare Management, a leading South African healthcare software company specialising in innovative solutions for healthcare providers, is delighted to announce a significant milestone. Allegra's ScriptPro cutting-edge dispensing software, has been successfully implemented at the recently established Johannesburg Surgical Hospital. The Johannesburg Surgical Hospital, scheduled to open at the end of September, is positioned to be a beacon of modern healthcare in South Africa. With its commitment to state-of-the-art technology, exceptional patient experiences, and specialised medical expertise, the hospital is poised to redefine the future of healthcare. This advanced facility boasts 150 beds, 13 state-of-the-art theatres, and a team of 36 specialists, all dedicated to providing outstanding private surgical services. While Allegra ScriptPro currently serves the retail dispensing needs, it does not handle hospital-specific dispensing. Nonetheless, the fact that this pioneering institution has chosen Allegra's software for their retail dispensing requirements underscores Allegra Healthcare Management's reputation as a trusted expert in healthcare software solutions. About Allegra ScriptPro. Allegra ScriptPro is a dynamic dispensing software solution designed to revolutionise pharmaceutical care. Its innovative features include: Efficiency: Allegra ScriptPro streamlines the dispensing process, ensuring quick, efficient, and accurate prescription fulfilment for both patients and pharmacists. Configuration: Our modular architecture allows for configuration tailored to the specific needs of pharmacies( courier, retail, independent and multi branch), making Allegra ScriptPro adaptable to various pharmacy environments. Comprehensive management: From centralising stock management to offering a range of financial and procurement management tools, Allegra ScriptPro provides a holistic solution for pharmacies. Enhanced pharmaceutical care: With the integration of ScriptPro with ClinicPro, Wellscreen, and VirtualCare modules, pharmacies can offer an advanced level of pharmaceutical care to patients. Adherence support: Allegra ScriptPro encourages medication adherence through scheduling and chronic medication management. Patient-centric communication: Personalised communication via SMS or email keeps patients informed and engaged in their healthcare. Allegra Healthcare Management has a proud track record dating back to 2001, with successful implementations across 3,200 pharmacies and clinics in five countries in Southern Africa and Dubai. Quote from Allegra Healthcare Management product owner Jacobus Smit: "We are honoured that Johannesburg Surgical Hospital, has chosen Allegra ScriptPro for its retail dispensing needs. Our software embodies efficiency and innovation, aligning perfectly with the hospital's commitment to superior patient care. This partnership underscores our position as industry experts in healthcare software solutions." About Allegra Healthcare Management: Allegra Healthcare Management is a leading South African software company specialising in technology solutions for healthcare providers. With a comprehensive suite of software solutions, including ScriptPro, Healthfindr, VirtualCare, Wellscreen, ClinicPro, and AllegraConnect, Allegra is dedicated to making healthcare simpler, safer, and more efficient. www.allegra.co.za For any media or PR inquiries, please contact: Mologadi Ramushu Allegra Healthcare Management az.oc.argellA@idagoloM The Localisation Support Fund (LSF) released a report on the findings of a study on the value chain mapping of the South African transmission and distribution networks and the allocation of the South African Manufacturing Capability to the value chain elements, which highlights anticipated growth in the electricity transmission and distribution (T&D) value chain; and opportunities for localisation within the T&D value chain. Thami Moatshe, executive head of theLocalisation Support Fund (LSF). Image supplied In line with national efforts around securing energy supply, the LSF initiated the study to understand the local manufacturing capability for components used in the T&D network. The study provides a list of value chain systems and products with an emphasis on local manufacturing. Furthermore, it maps out manufacturing capability against the manufactured products active within the value chain to identify manufacturing import gaps. The findings of the study present a detailed analysis of South Africas local manufacturing capability within the transmission and distribution value chain. Speaking at the round table discussions on the findings of the study, Thami Moatshe, executive head of the LSF said, By effectively coordinating the countrys manufacturing capabilities and understanding the challenges and opportunities in localisation within the transmission and distribution value chain, we can leverage opportunities for job creation, capitalise on the capabilities of both local and foreign manufacturers in the T&D value chain, and in turn, create avenues for skills development while working in collaboration with academia on programmes such as the Eskom Power Engineering Programme (EPEP). The Eskom Transmission Development Plan (TDP) of 2022 estimates that 53GW of new generation capacity will be added to the network between 2023 and 2032. For this to happen, significant Transmission and Distribution (T&D) investment of more than R70bn for transmission alone, is needed in the next five years and it is estimated to grow by more than three times that in the five years that follow. This increase was estimated by using a simple extrapolation based on the length of the powerline and the number of transformers needed in the latter five years when compared to that for the first five years, and it was meant to give an indication of the scale of the growth anticipated. Therefore, for the next 10 years, between R288bn to R360bn of transmission-grid-related investment is anticipated. Refurbishing the aging infrastructure This, in addition to refurbishing the aging infrastructure already in the system, will create opportunities for localisation of the manufacturing of transmission and distribution components. The energy VC manufacturing sector, for example, has the capability to manufacture 33% of the components locally. The report shows that South Africa has the capability of local manufacture of powerline-related products close to 100%. Given the growth in demand, local capability can be expanded, strengthened, and prepared for export. The spend for powerlines could be in excess of R140bn in transmission and R25bn in distribution in the next 10-15 years. Furthermore, the Transmission substation-related products are largely (>80%) comprised of imported items (e.g., large power transformers, shunt reactors, switchgear, instrument transformers, and PTM&C products). Foreign partnership can assist in localisation According to the LSF, partnerships with foreign players experienced in this field can assist in promoting localisation efforts. The distribution substation-related products are comprised of both imported items and locally manufactured ones. The split is approximately 60% local and 40% imported. There is an opportunity for increased localisation in these areas, including transmission. For example, South Africa has the potential to leverage its track record for Class 0 and 1 transformers (Low Voltage -LV and Medium Voltage - MV) and emerge as a significant player in the global export market. A sustained level of demand can lead to reduced production costs, which can drive down prices to enable the competitiveness of local products for export. With an envisaged large build programme, there is a significant opportunity for skills development, job creation, localisation, and the establishment of sustainable export opportunities. The report notes that, despite the South African government's support for innovation and the willingness of companies and utilities to embrace it, the regulatory structure presents a significant hurdle to the adoption of innovative devices and systems. Given the expected expansion of the industry encompassing Eskom, municipalities, and independent power producers (IPPs) in response to the demands for network reinforcement, expansion, replacement, refurbishment, and the implementation of a new construction programme, there are significant opportunities for local suppliers to enhance their manufacturing capabilities, Moatshe highlighted. Added to this is the emergence of independent power producers and the need at the local government level to upgrade and expand their own power grids. All these projects will need new, innovative products, and the refurbishment, upgrading, or replacement of existing networks. This study has revealed that while South Africa has the capability, locally, to manufacture most of the components needed for the transmission and distribution value chain, certain challenges and constraints faced within the value chain have to be addressed. These include inconsistent workload for local suppliers, delays/deferrals of capital projects, access to and high cost of raw materials compared with competing developing countries, low costs of imported products, compliance to regulations and standards, shortage of skilled workforce, and limited capability of R&D and innovation, Moatshe added. View the full report here. In the trend-obsessed landscape of digital marketing, one strategy that often takes the spotlight is content marketing. Agencies promote its virtues, promising lead generation and heightened brand visibility. However, amid the gleaming promises, a darker side remains unspoken. In this article, we delve into the downsides of content marketing, revealing the hidden pitfalls agencies seldom discuss. The murky waters of terminology One of the first challenges that businesses face is the tangled web of terminology. Content marketing merges with other digital marketing facets like SEO and social media, leaving clients bewildered and often pushed into a content marketing pitfall. Agencies might sell one thing yet deliver another, transforming your online presence into a convoluted mess. You think you are buying an occasional blog post when, in fact, it quickly becomes a total digital brand makeover. Resource drain: The high cost of content As businesses embark on the content marketing journey, theyre greeted by a resource-intensive monster. Crafting top-notch content that resonates demands time and effort, often from already busy executives. Agencies, however, tend to downplay the additional burden content marketing places on clients. They might envision churning out weekly articles based on basic keywords, sprinkling them across the website and social media platforms. Yet, this approach often clashes with the clients desire for oversight and customisation, heralding the unravelling of the strategy. The heart of content marketing success lies in quantity (the sheer volume of material produced) and consistency. A continuous stream of content floods the website, generating online awareness and improving search rankings. But when clients want to influence content beyond mere cursory checks, the harmony crumbles. Agencies struggle to maintain the required cadence, and clients managers are soon inundated with checking articles, diverting them from their core responsibilities. This chaos typically spells the demise of the approach within the initial months. Beyond words: Taking over your website Heres another unexpected twist: Successful content marketing often necessitates handing over significant control of your website to the agency. Suddenly, the website that was your brands online headquarters transforms into a content circus, manipulated to appease the algorithms of search engines. Agencies might restructure site architecture, alter calls to action, and overhaul writing tone, all in the name of appealing to the digital overlords. The apprehension is real your corporate website could become Googles pawn. But the essence of this transformation lies in its necessity for effective content marketing. Its a dance with mass production that easily overpowers whatever digital presence you may have. As the cornerstone of this digital presence, your website is a prime target for the agency. If you, understandably, want a say in how the site is managed, it quickly becomes a drag on the agencys efforts, and if you give them free rein, chances are you wont recognise your website in a semester. ROI illusion: Measuring the unmeasurable Content marketings allure is amplified by its promised returns in the form of leads streaming in. Yet, in reality, measuring its ROI can feel like chasing shadows. The uncertainty of quantifying the value it brings muddles the investment justification. Agencies may paint a rosy picture, but the results often remain elusive. Poor quality leads a deluge of enquiries that waste time to screen, and a straightforward lack of short-term results since, as the agency will certainly point out, content marketing takes time to work. But how long? Tangible connections between content and revenue are elusive, casting doubt on the strategys true impact and almost certainly raising everyones already heightened stress levels. Exceptional content: A rarity in content marketing Often, the content produced within the framework of content marketing fails to meet the 'exceptional' benchmark. The content is bland, boring, 'stock' mass produced. We recently worked with a multi-national company that deliberately veered away from a content marketing approach. They decided to go for quality, not content, to build brand credibility to support their expansion into the Middle East. Rather than drowning everyone in a deluge of content, they opted for a precise approach. By teaming up with expert writers and internal subject matter specialists, they generated a few high-value case studies that truly added value and raised their reputation. This method deviated from the cookie-cutter approach that their agency recommended. Crafting the true strategy In conclusion, the unspoken downsides of content marketing are a sobering reminder that digital marketing, including content marketing, is a tactic a means to an end, not an end itself. The path to a successful marketing campaign lies in building a robust strategy that guides every move. Sure, maybe a deluge of content is what your business should produce, but it cant be a strategy for every business, especially as sales become higher value and more complex. As businesses navigate the dynamic waters of digital marketing, remember that a well crafted strategy will steer you clear of pitfalls and ensure that the tail does not wag the dog. It means your agency plays to your rules rather than vice versa. The journey might seem complex, but with the right strategy as your North Star, youll discover marketings true potential untethered from the confines of content marketings limitations. To find out more, visit https://www.firejuice.co.za/. Cape Town-based independent power producer (IPP), Red Rocket, is celebrating a landmark achievement with a $160m in capital infusion. This substantial investment comes from Bill Kilgore Investments, a management shareholders vehicle, and a consortium of international clean energy investors that includes the Evolution II and III Funds managed by Inspired Evolution, STOA - an impact energy and infrastructure fund dedicated to emerging markets, and FMO, the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank. From its pioneering development, construction, and ownership of one of South Africas first PV projects (75MW, Kathu), inking a groundbreaking land agreement with Eskom, and winning the lions share in an unprecedented win under the Round 6 auction of South Africas renewable energy independent power producer procurement programme (REIPPPP) with 440MW of solar projects in 2022. In February 2023, Red Rocket reached financial close on three Round 5 REIPPPP projects, totalling 364MW, and more privately procured projects are expected to reach the same milestone by the end of the year. Red Rocket's journey continues to surge forward with its enduring partnerships as it brings much-needed renewable energy solutions to the people of Africa. Commenting on this partnership, Red Rocket CEO Matteo Brambilla said we are pleased to be partnering with Inspired Evolution and their Evolution II and III Funds, along with new partners FMO and STOA who bring sector expertise to augment our efforts in building Red Rocket into one of Africas premier long-hold utility scale IPP platforms." Investment will help scale business Christopher Clarke, managing partner at Inspired Evolution, echoed this sentiment, re-emphasising their confidence in the senior management team and Red Rockets proven capabilities which continue to scale the business under fiercely contested auctions to target more than 3 GW of construction and operational assets over the next 3-4 years. Steven Faure, partner at Inspired Evolution added, "We are excited about the continued investment in the company and the robustness of the business model, where our new consortium will help propel Red Rocket to even greater heights." FMO's involvement in this partnership marks its largest energy equity deal in history, underscoring the magnitude of Red Rocket's mission and growth potential. "We are delighted to continue our partnership with Red Rocket and support the development of clean energy projects across the African continent," added Michael Jongeneel, CEO of FMO. "Red Rocket's mission to harness the power of nature's technologies - sun, water, wind, and earth - aligns with our vision to create a greener, more inclusive, and resilient world." Renewables key for sustainable growth We are proud to be part of Red Rocket project alongside Inspired Evolution and FMO. We are convinced that renewable energy is key for a sustainable growth and future and will be highly beneficial to South Africa. My recent visit to the Red Rocket mothership has reinforced my confidence in this dynamic and enthusiastic team," said STOA CEO, Marie-Laure Mazaud, "We are delighted to develop this new partnership in South Africa, where STOA already supports a fibre network project, and are excited to be part of this entrepreneurial journey, which echoes STOAs ambition to help build the African economies of tomorrow in the interest of next generations. The South African Human Rights Commission (HRC) is set to meet with the Department of Social Development and Sassa to discuss the delay in paying beneficiaries earlier this month. The meeting follows two weeks of strife for pensioners and people with disabilities who could not access their grant payments via their Sassa/Postbank cards. Among the issues that are due to be discussed is the cause of the recent delay in the payment of grants to large number of pensioners and persons with disabilities, and the precise nature of the payment switch software. Postbank's payment switch software facilitates Postbank's connection to the BankServ Africa platform for processing transactions via the Integrated Grant Payment System (IGPS). Postbank has since appointed a new provider for the payment switch, although Electronic Connect still runs the core banking platform. The South African Human Rights Commission meeting with Sassa today will highlight whether grant beneficiaries will be impacted yet again next month by the appointment of the new provider. In a dramatic turn of events on 9 July, the Vodacom building in Century City was engulfed in flames, prompting a swift response from emergency services. The cause of the fire remained a mystery until 4 August, when Vodacom released a statement based on preliminary findings. The report confirmed that an electrical fault was to blame, not the building's solar installation as had been speculated. In the aftermath of the fire, rumours circulated suggesting that the buildings rooftop solar panels were at fault. This speculation stirred unease among potential solar energy investors and cast a shadow over the quality of both the solar panels and the installation work at the Vodacom building. The ripple effects were felt across the solar industry, tarnishing its reputation. Gregor Kuepper, MD of Solarworld Africa, is no stranger to such challenges. With over two decades of experience in the global photovoltaic industry and a deep understanding of grid-tied and off-grid applications within the Sub-Saharan African market, Kuepper is well-positioned to address these concerns. As Solarworld Africa nears its 40th year in operation, Kueppers insights into the Vodacom fire are eagerly anticipated. Presumption of fire cause The early speculation concerning the fire that broke out that Sunday morning pointed to the solar panels on the roof. Upon arrival of the first crews, it was discovered that the solar panels on the roof had caused the rooftop to catch fire, stated JP Smith, Cape Towns mayoral committee member for Safety and Security. Several statements that were made about the safety of solar shows that premature conclusions do indeed damage the trust in solar as a safe, clean and proven technology. Jumping to conclusions without concrete evidence is also harmful to the reputation of the entire industry, adds Kuepper This speculation has unfairly cast a bad light on solar energy technology. Whilst we are busy finalising the investigation, we felt it prudent to place on record that the preliminary report by the forensic team has ruled out solar technology being the cause of the fire and that it was an electrical fault, said a spokesperson at Vodacom. Concerns about solar energy safety Solar energy has proven to be a reliable and sustainable source of power for countless businesses and households. It is crucial to remember that solar panels undergo rigorous testing and adhere to safety standards to ensure their safe operation. Businesses such as Vodacom conduct regular maintenance and inspections. CPA, as the operations and maintenance team on site at Vodacom Century City is dedicated to maintaining the plant to the highest standards. The plant is regularly maintained and kept up to date with the relevant safety standard and best practice in the market, added Anthony Adriaans, national projects manager at Current Power Automation (CPA). The solar modules and cabling are regularly checked and replaced in accordance with the maintenance programme put in place by Vodacom and CPA. Suppliers and product quality Vodacom is committed to the highest standards of safety and quality. The network provider only works with reputable and qualified suppliers who have demonstrated their expertise in the field. Any claims suggesting the use of unqualified suppliers and inferior products are unsubstantiated and cast unwarranted doubt on the businesss decision-making team. Disappointingly, we have also seen industry players opportunistically using this unfortunate incident to market themselves in bad taste, explains Kuepper. While competition is healthy, baseless claims against manufacturers, distributors and installers and attempts to position themselves as superior by capitalising on this incident are counterproductive and unprofessional. Now is the time for our industry to support one another to ensure this important renewable energy source is not tainted. The solar industry has made significant strides towards sustainability and has become a reliable source of clean energy. However, unfounded assumptions can deter potential investors from embracing solar energy solutions. It is essential to prioritise accuracy and information in such situations to preserve the reputation of the solar industry, speculation without evidence can cause undue harm to the solar industry's reputation. At Solarworld Africa, we are committed to solar energy as a safe and sustainable solution and urge the public and potential investors to engage with reputable when seeking information on solar solutions in general. concludes Kuepper. It will be a crying shame for our country if 'flight shaming' grounds the tourism sector. As increasing numbers of people become more conscious of their environmental impact on the world the focus has inevitably turned to what is perceived as one of its biggest polluters, flying. The premise is very simple; flying is bad for the climate because it increases your carbon footprint significantly, so you should feel shame for contributing to that and take steps to reduce it. In other words, you should stop taking flights in general, particularly long-haul flights. But for a country like South Africa that relies so heavily on economic gains from the tourism industry, the call to reduce carbon emissions associated with air travel has the potential to cast a dark shadow that could cripple the industry. Significant contributor to the GDP Tourism is a vital component of the global economy, contributing significantly to the GDP of many countries and providing jobs to millions of people. In South Africa, when measured against other industries, tourisms direct contribution to GDP is bigger than either agriculture, utilities (electricity, gas and water) or construction. In 2019 the sectors direct contribution to GDP was 3.7%, or R209bn. Let that sink in. If we take the losses experienced from the shutdown of travel during the height of the pandemic in 2020, inbound tourism expenditure declined by 70,5% in 2020 compared with 2019 a staggering blow for the economy. While the sector is still trying to recover from this decline, there has been a positive resurgence with reports indicating the total number of tourist arrivals between January and July 2023 grew by 71% when compared to the same period in 2022. These figures highlight the industrys resilience and potential for growth, despite the challenges posed by the current global economic climate, but we are still only operating at 80% of our pre-pandemic capacity. South Africa is waiting with arms wide open to welcome more tourists from across Africa and the globe to experience our diverse cultures and heritage. But for the most part, the only way to get here is to fly. A sustainability conundrum for conscious travellers. But should it be? Climate change is a pressing global First and foremost, it is essential to acknowledge that climate change is a pressing global issue that demands our attention and action. Of course the aviation industry is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and reducing its impact is imperative. While flight shaming has played a role in raising awareness about this issue and encouraging individuals to think critically about their travel choices, the problem arises when flight shaming morphs into a one-size-fits-all approach that demonises all air travel without considering the nuances of each situation. Case in point: South Africa where tourism is a key source of jobs, economic growth and conservation funding. So instead of shaming travellers in a bid to get them to cease all travel, shouldnt we rather be educating travellers on how to travel responsibly so that the impact of the flight pales in comparison to the multiplier impact the tourist dollar has - right down to the grassroots level. Food for thought The first thing travellers should consider is quite obvious. When travelling overseas, rather stay longer at the destination. Making travel count with a longer stay means that trips can be taken less frequently. The real positive impact however begins and ends with the choices travellers make once theyve arrived, such as choosing providers that display a sustainability badge. Many establishments in South Africa are converting to become more green. Conscious travellers have a responsibility to seek them out and support them. Travellers must also take the time to do their research before visiting. In our case for example, its not simply the Big 5 that makes our country an incredible destination choice. Travellers who are serious about their role in sustainability must look further than the top attractions. Understanding and immersing themselves in the lesser travelled South African cultures and destinations means that they can visit places that are off the beaten track and spend their money in areas that need that revenue the most. If they understand that its a case of growing the triple bottom line, they can focus on spending that becomes about the sustainability of micro-environments and the people in them. If travel stops, any hope of economic growth stops. The simple fact is that is more detrimental to an entire economic ecosystem if travellers choose not to fly than it is to take one long-haul flight. With South Africa recently being honoured by readers of the UKs Telegraph Travel publication with the prestigious title of "Best Country", and our iconic city of Cape Town claiming the coveted title of "Best City in the World", it will be a crying shame if we are unable to leverage these accolades to reap the economic benefits of more conscious visitors investing their travel spend into our magnificent country. Succeeding as an entrepreneur in South Africa is trickier now than ever before. Slow economic growth, high inflation and load shedding create a cocktail of challenges that are especially formidable for small and medium businesses. But one award-winning startup owner has found a way to circumvent the obstacles while staying true to the core values driving her, inspiring other entrepreneurs to stay the course during these troubled times. Reitumetse Kholumo, Kwela Brews Reitumetse Kholumo has achieved more than most people twice her age. At 25, shes graduated with a degree in chemical engineering from UCT, become a business owner, and won multiple innovation awards. And shes done it all while managing debilitating fibromyalgia. What truly sets Kholumo apart from the crowd, however, is the passion she has for her business idea that it can help to preserve and promote indigenous knowledge systems and beliefs while uplifting communities and creating jobs. Her business, Kwela Brews, brings the brewers of traditional African beer together under one brand, where she provides business expertise, marketing as well as new markets and customers. She helps improve conditions for brewing and supports home brewers by making them aware of legislation and compliance issues. There is a stigma attached to African traditional beer, but not many people know that, when brewed according to old recipes, African traditional beer is very healthy and nutritious, high in Vitamin B and amino acids with good bacteria for the gut. With a grandmother and great-grandmother who were homebrewers, the tradition is a firm part of Kholumos family heritage. But the entrepreneurial bug really bit her when during her undergraduate degree in chemical engineering, the class was taken to South African Breweries (SAB) to witness how beer was made industrially. When she graduated in 2021, her grandmother and other family members expected her to go into a well-paying corporate job, but Kholumo knew it wasnt for her. Initially, I thought I wanted to be a brewer but then I realised that by using my skills in engineering and design thinking, I could drive social impact and really support home brewers in a more meaningful way. A design thinking course that Kholumo took in 2021 was instrumental in shaping how she set up her business. A strategy for tackling complex challenges, design thinking is used in business and development work, policy making and other sectors. It prioritises human experience when designing solutions, consulting extensively with the prospective users of whatever product or services one conceptualises. This invariably leads to uncomfortable discoveries like Kholumo saw herself, when a brewing machine she acquired for home brewing was rejected by the brewers. Design thinking teaches you to not become too attached to your solutions. Even if you are a chemical engineer, you dont necessarily know the answer to a particular problem. You have to fail fast, to try something else, to see what works in a real situation, she says. Entrepreneurs need to learn this lesson quickly, the sooner the better. According to Angus Bowmaker-Falconer, SA lead on the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor South Africa report, much needs to be done to improve the entrepreneurial landscape in South Africa. He talks specifically about creating enabling environments, improving the confidence of entrepreneurs, and addressing their fear of failure. According to a recent news report, African entrepreneurs say their biggest challenge is funding and access to finance. But as entrepreneurial support company, Founders Factory Africas co-founder Sam Sturm says: Money doesnt solve problems. People solve problems. Kholumo agrees with this. But often, there is pressure from potential funders regarding expectations to make money. This can make life tough for entrepreneurs as there are limited supportive spaces, which nurture them to grapple with the problems. She advises entrepreneurs to be aware of how long it can take to secure funding and how difficult it is to rely on financial support and therefore to be conservative with your initial capital and input. Research shows up to 80% of small businesses in South Africa fail in the first five years of business and Kholumo believes that taking things slowly can be a more sustainable way of operating in the long run. Since starting Kwela Brews in October 2021, she has worked steadily to build the business and spread awareness, focusing on fomenting relationships with home brewers in their own communities. As the companys only employee who is also undertaking a masters degree full-time there is only so much time and energy she can dedicate to the business. She believes that slow and steady growth is not only more sustainable in the long run, but also healthier for her. By definition, entrepreneurs are risk-inclined and highly self-motivated. Kholumo is risking more than many in this arena, but she is also compelled by a deeper mission. Having my own levels of being disenfranchised as a black woman living with disabilities, I'm even more motivated to leverage the privilege that I have, she says. I want to imagine a world in which the various systems of oppression no longer exist. Takealot is set to host its first Takealot Marketplace Summit, an event the online retailer says will recognise and empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Image supplied Designed specifically for Takealot Marketplace sellers, the conference will see over 1,000 entrepreneurs, business leaders and guest speakers come together for a one-day event. Masterclasses will be hosted on various topics focused on empowering SMEs on the day. Frederik Zietsman, CEO of Takelot, says: Takealot Marketplace has demonstrated the power of the digital economy as a catalyst for job creation and economic upliftment in South Africa. Takealot has created a route to market for South African SMEs that enables them to scale geographically and reach consumers throughout the country without physical presence. Were proud of the many success stories weve witnessed through our journey and were determined to continue this trajectory. The Takealot Marketplace Summit, to be held at the Sandton Convention Centre on 4 October 2023, promises a dynamic lineup of speakers and activities. The renowned DJ Sbu will host the event. It will feature distinguished guest speakers, including Amanda Du-Pont, a Takealot Marketplace seller and entrepreneur extraordinaire, and Lekau Sehoana, the innovative mind behind DripFootwear. Impact of the Takealot Marketplace Since its launch in 2014, Takealot Marketplace has seen its seller base grow from just 120 businesses to over 10,000 dedicated sellers. Now, Takealot Marketplace is South Africas thriving hub for entrepreneurs, with over 90 million units sold and more than 2.4 million unique marketplace products currently available. This provides an unparalleled array of choices in the South African market, says Takelot. 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. When we think of Latin America, the prevailing image is of a region filled with either repressive dictators or demagogic populists. Democracy does not readily come to mind, said Wells, the Roger Howell Jr. Professor of History emeritus. In his latest book, Latin America's Democratic Crusade (Yale University Press, 2023), Wells challenges this assumption, telling the story of the region from the 1920s through the 1960s from the perspective of the many who preferred reform to revolution. One of the characters he focuses on is a little-known congressman from Oregon, Rep. Charles Porter (19561960), who spoke out against US support for dictatorships in the region during the Cold War. Having first written about him in his 2009 book Tropical Zion, Wells decided to spend the summer of 2011, on a hunch, looking through Porters papers at the University of Oregon library. What I found was a treasure trove of correspondence between Porter and a number of prominent Latin American politicians, who preferred reform instead of revolution. As Latin America became a flashpoint of the Cold War as a result of the Cuban Revolution, explained Wells, reformist politicians, unhappy with what they viewed as Washingtons and Moscows simplistic us versus them mindset, forged a different path, rejecting right-wing militarism and leftist totalitarianism. Over the next few years, I followed up on the leads I found in the Porter papers by working in a number of Latin American archives, he added. 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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Advertisement It is investigating under Rule 2.3 of the Broadcasting Code which states when applying generally accepted standards broadcasters must ensure that material which may cause offence is justified by the context. Ofcom chief executive Dame Melanie Dawes said: Over the last few days there has been speculation and commentary about our role as the independent broadcast regulator. These are important issues and I wanted to be clear about our rules. Dame Melanie Dawes. Photo: House of Commons/PA. Advertisement Parliament sets objectives on how the broadcast sector should be regulated. We set and enforce rules to achieve these objectives. Advertisement Contrary to some claims, these rules remain unchanged. Dame Melanie said the rules from the regulator of broadcasters are meant to protect audiences from offensive and harmful material, and to uphold the integrity of broadcast news and current affairs programming while ensuring freedom of expression. She also said: The decisions we take, always based on facts and evidence once a programme has aired, are vital if we are to protect our vibrant media landscape. We continue to apply and enforce these rules without fear or favour. Advertisement Both Fox and Wootton have been suspended by GB News, and Wootton has been sacked by MailOnline where he had written a regular column since 2021. On Tuesday, actor-turned-politician Fox made a series of remarks about Ava Evans, the political correspondent for online news site Joe, including asking: Who would want to shag that? Ava Evans has said that her social media messages are filled with threats. Photo: Channel 5/PA. Advertisement Following the discussion, Wootton apologised unreservedly for a very unfortunate lapse in judgment in a follow-up post to an earlier apology, which suggested he should have said sorry for what was said during the broadcast. The broadcast prompted an internal investigation by GB News, while Ms Evans said she had received an apology from the broadcaster. Self-regulation for social media simply doesnt work which is why the Government must introduce a regulatory framework for online safety, the head of education and innovation at the charity CyberSafeKids has said. Philip Arneill told RTE radios Morning Ireland that the charity welcomed any moves towards raising standards and accountability. He was commenting after the Commissioner for Online Safety told an Oireachtas committee on Wednesday that a regulatory framework will be required to ensure protection of minors online against incitement to hatred, xenophobic behaviour, racist content, child sex abuse and terrorism. Advertisement The discussion followed news of the death of a 14-year-old girl in Co Clare who is understood to have died after inhaling an aerosol substance and may have participated in a so-called aerosol challenge on TikTok. It is understood the girl, named locally as Sarah Mescall (14), from Kilnamona, Co Clare, fell ill last weekend and was rushed to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin and, later, Crumlin Childrens Hospital. Advertisement The girl, a second-year student at Colaiste Mhuire in Ennis, was pronounced dead at the hospital on Monday morning. Gardai said they have notified the coroner of the death and an investigation file is being prepared. One line of inquiry reportedly being pursued by investigators is whether the girl became ill after taking part in a so-called aerosol challenge on TikTok, known as chroming. It has claimed a number of lives in recent years, especially in Australia where it has been linked to the deaths of several young people. Advertisement Mr Arneill said: It's very clear from the evidence that self-regulation, when it comes to social media platforms in particular, just simply doesn't work. So we welcome any moves towards raising standards and accountability. And these kinds of definitions are absolutely key to getting that consistency across the board when it comes to reporting content, detecting content, and then getting it removed in a timely fashion. Apart from the capacity to implement an individual complaints mechanism, responsibility and accountability had to lie with social media platforms to remove content quickly and effectively, he said. CyberSafeKids knew from their research that children and young people were being targeted daily. The two main areas are harmful content and harmful contact. So they might be coming across material which is inappropriate or pornographic material. Advertisement For example, there could be material around suicidal ideation, eating disorders, racist content and things like that as well. And then obviously with children, particularly underage children, when they're on these platforms and they're on different gaming platforms as well, there's also a real distinct possibility of contact from people they don't know. Advertisement Sixty-one per cent of the children that we surveyed last year were contacted by a stranger in an online game. And some of those strangers may indeed be peers. They may be children of the same age. But obviously, if you don't know who your children are being contacted by, you know, that's not a safe situation to be in. He said the internet was constantly evolving and is a dynamic environment. So even when things are put in place to remove content, users can find other ways using differently spelt hashtags, for example. And we would say that stuff is not coming down quickly enough. We are regularly contacted by teachers and parents because they are afraid of reporting content to these companies and it simply doesn't come down. It's very much a David and Goliath situation. Ireland TikTok fined 345m by Data Protection Commission o... Read More If you're faced with a very large social media platform and your child's very distressed and you can't get any response, that's a terribly disempowering situation to be in. And so it's not happening quick enough. And sometimes even when it is reported, for whatever reason, it's not meeting those in-house community guidelines. And so as a result, the content is not being taken down. Advertisement Any move towards tougher regulations and restrictions of this kind of content was welcome, he said. We've got to see how quickly this works and see how effectively this works. But the only way it's going to work is if we have this consistency right across the board and we remove this sense of self-regulation where community guidelines are different from platform to platform. Imposing financial penalties on social media platforms could have a cumulative effect and would increase the pressure to better monitor harmful content. That's something that we would absolutely welcome because quite frankly, at the moment, the system is not working and there's a lot of individual users, parents and children and in some cases teachers and schools as well who just feel completely powerless. So any legislative and regulatory framework that will give them more power in this area, we absolutely welcome. Patience has run out with the DUPs blockade of the Stormont Assembly, Sinn Fein vice president Michelle ONeill has said. Ms ONeill said she now wanted to see a plan from the Irish and UK governments on how to restore the powersharing institutions in Northern Ireland. Advertisement The DUP has been blocking powersharing for more than a year in protest at the internal UK trade barriers created by the Northern Ireland Protocol. The party says the deal struck by the EU and UK to reform the protocol the Windsor Framework does not sufficiently address its concerns and has made clear it will not countenance a return to devolution until the UK government provides further assurances, by way of legislation, over Northern Irelands place within the UK internal market. Advertisement Talks between the DUP and UK government have been ongoing over the summer. Advertisement However, Ms ONeill has said the two governments need to be proactive in finding a solution. She said: What we need to see, and what we should have heard from the prime minister [Rishi Sunak] today, is the action, the plan that he has to work with the Irish Government to end the DUPs blockage of the assembly. Advertisement That is where the public want us to be, working together and having their back through the cost-of-living crisis. Everyone has been more than reasonable giving time and space to the DUP, but that patience has run out. We are at the end of that road and what we need to see is the action plan to get us back into the executive. The real question now for the DUP is are they prepared to accept the outcome of last Mays assembly election? Advertisement Are they prepared to accept shared power on an equal basis with ourselves and with the other parties? Some elements of the Windsor Framework will come into effect from this weekend. Power-sharing institutions have not been operating for more than a year (Liam McBurney/PA) Advertisement Ms ONeill said this meant there was no reason for the DUP boycott of Stormont to continue. Advertisement She said: The Windsor Framework is now done, that deal has closed, that is not up for renegotiation. We have the Windsor Framework now coming into effect, the red lanes and green lanes now coming into effect over the next number of days, so there is no reason for the DUP to boycott the executive. She added: Our priority should always be plan A, which is to get the Executive up and running, but if that is not the case of course it is prudent for the two governments to work together and actually find a way. But, what does that look like? What does that joint stewardship look like? They need to be having those conversations. I do think the two governments need to bring forward a plan in the first instance to have a restored executive and how they are going to stop the DUP preventing the formation of an executive. Updated: 4pm Gardai have made four further arrests in connection with a 157 million haul of cocaine seized when an elite army unit stormed a cargo ship off the Wexford coast. Advertisement Seven men have now been detained for questioning about the largest drugs haul in the history of the State. A total of 2,253kg of cocaine was found on the Panamanian-registered vessel in a major joint agency operation off the south-east coast on Tuesday. On Wednesday evening, a further three men were arrested for alleged organised crime offences, while one further arrest was made on Thursday. They are detained at garda stations in the Southern Region. Advertisement Members of the highly trained Army Ranger Wing descended by fast-rope from a helicopter on to the MV Matthew as it tried to sail out of Irish waters and evade capture. Advertisement Advertisement The elite unit boarded the ship after the Irish Naval Services patrol vessel, the LE William Butler Yeats, fired warning shots in its direction after it failed to obey orders. The vessel had been under surveillance since Friday when a multi-agency operation responded to intelligence of a major international drug smuggling operation. Speaking at a media briefing in Dublin on Wednesday, a senior member of the gardai described the operation as hugely significant. Advertisement The MV Matthew is now moored at Marino Point in Cork (Niall Carson/PA) Assistant Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly said: I think its really important to note, this is the largest drug seizure in the history of the state. This is a hugely significant operation and it shows our unrelenting determination to disrupt and dismantle networks which are determined to bring drugs into our country. These groups are transnational groups. They are working all across the world and, because of that, we need to work with our international partners. Advertisement He added: This is a huge hit for the people involved in this. Given the scale of the haul, authorities do not believe the cocaine was solely destined for Ireland. They suspect the drugs were being transported from South America for distribution across Europe. Assistant Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly said it was a hugely significant operation (Brian Lawless/PA) The MV Matthew was escorted to Cork harbour on Tuesday. Advertisement A fishing trawler that grounded off the coast of Co Wicklow late on Sunday was also being monitored as part of the operation, amid suspicions it was en route to rendezvous with the cargo ship. The vessel remains stuck on a sandbank out at sea with poor conditions preventing the authorities from boarding and searching it. It will be treated as a crime scene when it is accessed, police said. Three people, aged 60, 50 and 31, previously arrested during the course of the operation, remain in custody in police stations in Co Wexford on Wednesday. It has emerged that one of those arrested was medically evacuated off the MV Matthew before the military operation to seize it. The operation involved the Defence Forces, customs officers and the garda national drugs and organised crime unit. Commander Tony Geraghty said there was an escalated use of force (Brian Lawless/PA) Mr Kelly said the cocaine on the ship originated in South America. This product was supplied by a South American cartel, one of the murderous cartels that are behind cocaine shipments into Europe, he said. A shipment like this into Europe is partly destined for the Irish market. Obviously, with the size and intelligence we have, we know the organised crime group behind this comprises of a number of different elements across Europe. Advertisement Asked if those on the cargo ship had tried to dispose of the cocaine by burning it or throwing it overboard, Mr Kelly said more information on this would be provided in the coming days. He said such a large shipment would not have entered the states waters without the involvement of an Irish gang. He said there are a number of gangs in Ireland with direct links to South America. There is no large ship like this coming into our waters or our ports or transiting across our country, without an Irish organised criminal group involved in it. Gerry Harrahill, director general Operation, Revenue and Customs (left), Assistant Commissioner Justin Kelly, Garda Serious and Organised Crime (centre) and Tony Geraghty, Fleet Operations Commander Irish Naval Service (Brian Lawless/PA) There is an increase in the amount of cocaine available for a number of geopolitical reasons in South America. There is basically a glut of cocaine on the market, he said. And when you combine that with the increased consumption across Europe, Europe is now the biggest market for cocaine in the world. So when you combine those two things together, absolutely, its inevitable that were going to see organised criminal groups trying to leverage on that, make more money from it, as they always do in situations like this. Its inevitable that well see more large shipments. Advertisement He said increased large shipments had also been seen in Antwerp and Rotterdam. Commander Tony Geraghty, fleet operations officer of the Irish Naval Service, explained why warning shots were fired at the cargo vessel before the boarding operation. The merchant ship refused to follow the instructions of our own ship, he said. So this was prior to the insertion of the Army Ranger Wing. The ship was escorted into Cobh in Cork by the Irish Navy (Irish Defence Forces/PA) There was an escalated use of force used to compel the vessel to follow the instructions of the ships captain. Cdr Geraghty said it had been an extremely complex joint operation involving the Naval Service, the Air Corps, the Army Ranger Wing and Defence Forces headquarters. He said the poor weather made the fast rope aerial boarding more complex. He said there was no evidence of the crew being armed when the Army Rangers boarded and took control of the vessel. This ship is very large, shes 190 metres long, with an exceptionally high freeboard. So very difficult to get on, he added. He said a great deal of skill was demonstrated by the Army Ranger Wing and helicopter pilot during high winds. Three people have been arrested on suspicion of organised crime offences (Niall Carson/PA) Cdr Geraghty said the ship also altered course when the Army Rangers were initially trying to descend. Advertisement The Naval Service, the Air Corps and the Army Ranger Wing rehearse for these type of operations. The Air Corps pilots are really top notch guys, theyre highly trained, he said. Whilst the environment is always dangerous the weather yesterday was very bad the operation was carried out in a successful manner. Gerry Harrahill, director general of customs in Ireland, hailed the professionalism and the resilience of those involved in seizing the ship. I had a personal opportunity last night down in Cork to meet with some of the teams involved, he said. While they were tired and exhausted, I think there was a real sense of having done a really good job and delivered a really good outcome. The American soldier who sprinted into North Korea across its heavily fortified border two months ago has been taken to a Texas army base for medical checks and interviews after his return to the US, the Pentagon has said. North Korea abruptly said on Wednesday it would deport Private Travis King. Advertisement His return was organised with the help of ally Sweden and rival China, the White House said. While officials have said King, 23, is in good health and the immediate focus will be on caring for him and reintegrating him into US society, his troubles are likely far from over. King, who served in South Korea, ran into the North while on a civilian tour of a border village on July 18, becoming the first American confirmed to be detained in the isolated country in nearly five years. Advertisement At the time, he was supposed to be heading to Fort Bliss in Texas following his release from prison in South Korea on an assault conviction. Advertisement The US soldier crossed into North Korea through the heavily armed border (AP) He was declared absent without leave from the army (Awol) but not considered a deserter. Punishment for going Awol can vary and it depends in part on whether the service member voluntarily returned or was apprehended. Advertisement Kings two-month absence and ultimate handover by the North Koreans makes that more complicated. King arrived in the early hours of Thursday at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio and was taken to Brooke Army Medical Centre, the Pentagon said. He will undergo an array of medical and psychological assessments and debriefings and he will also get a chance to meet with family. Video aired by a Texas news station showed King walking off a plane. Advertisement Dressed in a dark top and pants, he could be seen speaking briefly with people waiting on the asphalt. He shook hands with one before being led into a building. Many questions remain about Kings case, including why he fled in the first place and why the North which has tense relations with Washington over Pyongyangs nuclear programme, support for Russias war in Ukraine and other issues agreed to turn him over. Advertisement The White House has not addressed North Korean state media reports that King fled because of his dismay about racial discrimination and inequality in the military and US society. Advertisement The Norths official Korean Central News Agency said King made such complaints but verifying that is impossible. It is not clear with Pte King ran across the border (AP) On Wednesday, Swedish officials took King to the Chinese border, where he was met by US ambassador to China Nicholas Burns, the Swedish ambassador to China, and at least one US Defence Department official. He was then flown to a US military base in South Korea before heading to America. His detention was relatively short by North Korean standards. Several recent American detainees had been held for over a year 17 months in the case of Otto Warmbier, a college student arrested during a group tour. Mr Warmbier was in a coma when he was deported and later died. North Korea has often been accused of using American detainees as bargaining chips and there had also been speculation that the North would try to maximise the propaganda value of a US soldier. But analysts say Kings legal troubles could have limited his propaganda value, and officials from US President Joe Bidens administration insisted they provided no concessions to North Korea to secure his release. Flagship presenters including Match Of The Day host Gary Lineker have been banned from making attacks on political parties. It comes in a review into the BBCs social media guidelines after Lineker compared the language used by the UK's Conservative government to promote its asylum plans to 1930s Germany in a post on Twitter, sparking an impartiality row. Advertisement The new rules also affect Strictly Come Dancing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, The Apprentices Lord Alan Sugar and Antiques Roadshows Fiona Bruce, as well as Dragons Dens Evan Davis, MasterChef hosts John Torode and Gregg Wallace and The One Shows Alex Jones. Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have also been named as flagship programme presenters (Guy Levy/BBC/PA) Radio presenters Greg James, Zoe Ball, Vernon Kay and Scott Mills were also named as presenters of flagship programmes, but the full list will be kept under review, the broadcaster said. Advertisement Advertisement The corporation said the guidance does not include contributors, pundits, judges or guest hosts but does apply to presenters of major sporting events and Top Gear which is currently not in production. The guidance states presenters cannot endorse or attack a political party, criticise the character of individual politicians in the UK, comment on political debate during a UK general election or referendum, or take up an official role in campaigning groups while the programme is on air and for a two-week window before and after the series. A review of the BBCs social media guidelines, conducted by former ITN boss John Hardie, comes after former England striker Lineker was suspended from the broadcaster for his tweet, but later returned following a boycott by top on-air talent. Lineker described the BBCs updated social media guidance as all very sensible on X, formerly known as Twitter. Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, former head of editorial policy at the BBC, Richard Ayre said on BBC News: The fact that Gary Lineker has welcomed these guidelines tells you quite a lot about what Gary thinks about them. I think that he must believe that they empower him to say pretty much what he has already said. Advertisement In other words, when he said six months ago in criticising government policy that the language used by the government was reminiscent of that of Germany in the 1930s, I dont see anything in the new guidelines which will stop him from saying that again. Advertisement I think that would now be acceptable to the BBC. Mr Ayre added: I suspect Gary will feel able to continue to say the sort of things he said before, I think it probably is a win for Gary Lineker, that doesnt mean its wrong for the BBC because it is a recognition that the people who work for it do have lives of their own. The BBC has updated its social media guidance (Nicholas.T.Ansell/PA) Mr Hardie spoke to more than 80 people, both inside and outside the BBC as part of the review. Setting out his recommendations, he said: High-profile presenters outside of journalism should be able to express views on issues and policies including matters of political contention but stop well short of campaigning in party politics or for activist organisations. While BBC director-general Tim Davie said: We all have a responsibility to treat people with civility and respect, particularly at a time when public debate and discussion, both on and offline, can be so polarised. Advertisement The BBC also has important commitments to both freedom of expression and impartiality and this rightly extends to social media. I would, therefore, like to thank John Hardie, and all those who took part in this review, for such a thorough, clear and considered report. Clarity on how those working for the BBC use social media is not only important for them and the organisation, but also for our audiences. The new guidance, which includes new requirements for presenters of our flagship programmes, is both proportionate and fair and protects these commitments. The BBC said the specific guidance for flagship programmes recognises the importance of freedom of expression and is in addition to the existing impartiality guidance for individuals working in news and current affairs and factual journalism production, which remains the same. However, freelancers and BBC staff who do not fall into that category or present a flagship show, such as actors, dramatists, comedians, musicians and pundits do not fall under the new social media rules on impartiality but must not bring the BBC into disrepute. The Right Livelihood Award known as the Alternative Nobel has been awarded to environmental activists from Kenya and Cambodia, a human rights defender from Ghana and a humanitarian group that rescues migrants in the Mediterranean Sea. The 2023 laureates stand up to save lives, preserve nature and safeguard the dignity and livelihoods of communities around the world, the award foundation said, adding that they fight for peoples right to health, safety, a clean environment and democracy. Advertisement This years prize went to Phyllis Omido from Kenya and the groups Mother Nature Cambodia and SOS Mediterranee. Advertisement They will share a cash prize but for security reasons its size cannot be disclosed, the award foundation said. The 2023 honorary award was given to Eunice Brookman-Amissah from Ghana. Ole von Uexkull, the head of the Stockholm-based Right Livelihood foundation, said of the winners: They care for their land and each human life connected to it: be it Indigenous communities or people risking their lives to get to safety. Advertisement The Cambodian advocacy group was cited for its fearless and engaging activism to preserve Cambodias natural environment in the context of a highly restricted democratic space, while the non-profit charity that operates in international waters north of Libya was credited with carrying out life-saving humanitarian search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean Sea. Kenyan grassroots environmental activist Ms Omido received the award for her ground-breaking struggle to secure land and environmental rights for local communities while advancing the field of environmental law, organisers said. Advertisement Greta Thunberg was a previous winner (TT News Agency via AP) The foundation said Ms Brookman-Amissah was honoured for pioneering discussions on womens reproductive rights in Africa, paving the way for liberalised abortion laws and improved safe abortion access. This year there were 170 nominees from 68 countries. The foundation said the laureates will be recognised at an award presentation in Stockholm on November 29. Advertisement Created in 1980, the annual Right Livelihood Award honours efforts that the prize founder, Swedish-German philanthropist Jakob von Uexkull, felt were being ignored by the Nobel Prizes. To date, 190 laureates from 74 countries have received the award. Ole von Uexkull is a nephew of the prize founder. Previous winners include Ukrainian human rights defender Oleksandra Matviichuk, Congolese surgeon Denis Mukwege and Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. Ms Matviichuk and Mr Mukwege received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2022 and 2018, respectively. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has amended his nations constitution to include his policy to expand the countrys military nuclear program. State media said on Thursday that Mr Kim has called for an exponential increase in the production of nuclear weapons. Advertisement The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) added that he called on his nation to play a larger role in a collective of nations confronting the United States in a new Cold War. Advertisement As per KCNA, Mr Kim commented during a two-day session of North Koreas rubber-stamp parliament in which he amended the constitution. The assembly gave unanimous approval to a new clause in the constitution to ensure the countrys right to existence and development, deter war and protect regional and global peace by rapidly developing nuclear weapons to a higher level. Advertisement Mr Kim said at the assembly that North Koreas nuclear force-building policy has been made permanent as the basic law of the state, which no one is allowed to flout with anything. The North Korean leader added his nation needs to push ahead with the work for exponentially boosting the production of nuclear weapons and diversifying the nuclear strike means. Advertisement North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, bottom centre, attends a meeting of the countrys parliament in Pyongyang, North Korea (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service/AP) Mr Kim went on to accuse the United States, South Korea, and Japan of combining to create a threat equivalent to the Asian version of NATO which he described as the root cause of war and aggression. He said: This is just the worst actual threat, not threatening rhetoric or an imaginary entity. Advertisement The North Korean leader urged his diplomats to further promote solidarity with the nations standing against the U.S. and the Wests strategy for hegemony. The Supreme Peoples Assembly meetings came after in the wake of Mr Kims visit to Russia earlier this month. The trip sparked concerns in the West on a possible arms alliance between the two rogue nations, prompting fears North Korea would provide Russia with munitions for its war on Ukraine in exchange for advanced weapons technologies. Republicans leading an impeachment inquiry of US president Joe Biden alleged on Thursday that he had lied about family members' business dealings and had not walled them off from his official duties, as Democrats said there was no evidence of wrongdoing. In its first hour, the impeachment hearing by the Republican-led House of Representatives Oversight Committee did not reveal new information about Biden's financial ties to his troubled son Hunter Biden (53), who pursued a range of international business ventures while struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. Advertisement But Republicans leading the probe said Hunter Biden and other family members were selling access. "What were the Bidens selling to make all this money? Joe Biden himself," House Oversight Committee chair James Comer said. The hearing came just three days before a looming government shutdown as Congress struggles to pass legislation to fund federal agencies due to a fight over funding and immigration. Advertisement Republicans have yet to uncover evidence of wrongdoing by Biden after months of initial investigations that have produced thousands of pages of financial records. Advertisement "If Republicans had a smoking gun or even a dripping water pistol they would be presenting it today, but they've got nothing," Jamie Raskin, the panel's top Democrat, said. George Washington University professor Jonathan Turley and forensic accountant Bruce Dubinsky said the panel had enough evidence to open an impeachment inquiry but did not have enough evidence to justify impeachment charges. Another law professor, Michael Gerhardt of the University of North Carolina, said he had not heard credible evidence to justify the probe and warned the panel that it was being driven by partisan concerns. A fourth witness, former Justice Department official Eileen O'Connor, said she thought the department had soft-pedaled a criminal investigation of Hunter Biden, who now faces gun charges. Advertisement Republicans allege Biden and his family personally profited from policies he pursued as vice president during former President Barack Obama's administration between 2009 and 2017. Separately, they also allege the Justice Department interfered with a tax investigation of Hunter Biden. Unfounded The White House says the inquiry is unfounded and driven by politics ahead of the 2024 presidential election, when Biden will likely face a rematch with Republican Donald Trump, who faces four upcoming criminal trials. Advertisement It is unclear if House Republicans, who have a narrow 221-212 majority, would have the votes at the end of the inquiry to support actual impeachment. But even if that vote succeeded, it is highly unlikely that the Senate, where Democrats hold a 51-49 majority, would vote to remove Biden from office. At the center of the investigation are allegations that Biden, as vice president, pressured Ukraine to fire a top prosecutor to shield Burisma, a company for which Hunter Biden was on the board of directors. Advertisement Numerous US and foreign officials have said Biden was carrying out official policy to fight corruption in Ukraine. Democrats unsuccessfully pressed the panel to subpoena former New York mayor Rudolph Giuliani, who had sought to uncover evidence of Biden wrongdoing in Ukraine, as well as Lev Parnas, a former associate who has denounced Giuliani's effort. House Republicans have said they plan to seek personal and business bank records for Hunter Biden and James Biden, the president's brother. Comer cited payment records from Chinese nationals to Hunter in 2019, listing Joe Biden's home address in Delaware as the beneficiary address. Republicans have not provided evidence that the elder Biden received the money. Advertisement The hearing comes as House Republicans are locked in a showdown with Biden and his fellow Democrats over government funding for the fiscal year that starts October 1st. Wide swaths of the government will shut down if they do not reach agreement. "The consequences for the American people will be very damaging," the White House said at the hearing's outset. "Nothing can distract from that." Raskin said Republicans had been pressured to impeach Biden by Trump. Trump was impeached twice during his four-year presidency and faces four criminal indictments, the first time for allegedly pressuring Ukraine to investigate Biden ahead of the 2020 election. Trump was acquitted by the Senate both times. -Reuters Russia to closely monitor U.S. plans to deploy INF-banned weapons in Europe Xinhua) 13:33, September 28, 2023 MOSCOW, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Moscow will closely monitor U.S. steps to deploy weapons systems previously banned by the arms-control Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in Europe, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said Wednesday. "We are closely monitoring any U.S. steps to implement destabilizing plans that involve the deployment of these weapons," Zakharova said during her weekly press briefing. She noted that this was particularly significant, considering Russia's moratorium on deploying intermediate-range and shorter-range missiles. "I would like to remind you that the viability of the Russian moratorium is directly linked to the emergence of (these) American missiles ... in the relevant regions," Zakharova said. Zakharova clarified that the weapon system under discussion was the containerized MK-70 launcher. The system, not only used for SM-6 missiles, has been adapted and can be used to fire long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles. She said that Washington has begun preparing to transfer these missile systems, previously prohibited under the INF treaty, to Europe. In 2019, the United States officially announced its withdrawal from the INF Treaty. The United States and the former Soviet Union signed the INF Treaty in 1987, which prohibited possessing, developing and testing ground-launched missiles with a range of 500-5,500 km. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) KJ-52 - Still Standing | INOV8 PR NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE Today marks the one-year anniversary of the largest hurricane ever to hit Southwest Florida, and commemorating this significant event is KJ-52s latest album release, Still Standing. Fueled by personal experiences and stories from a community still picking up the pieces, the album is a testament to human resilience, unity, and hope. Still Standing boasts 11 tracks, with the radio release of No Bad Days (feat. Peabod) recently hitting #1 on Christian radio. The album also features collaborations with Dan Rivera of SEU Worship in Hall of Fame, and Fern of Social Club and Gaijin in Sunshine. On September 28th, 2022, my city of Cape Coral bore the brunt of this Category Four Hurricane. In the wake of devastation, loss, and tragedy, we emerged still standing. This album is inspired by the stories of perseverance and embodies the spirit of a community uniting to rebuild, shared KJ-52. In the aftermath of the hurricane, KJ-52, a local pastor, dedicated weeks serving the community, offering food, water, repairs, and more, embodying the love of Christ in tangible ways. Still Standing seeks to echo this sense of unity, uplifting those who continue to rebuild their lives. In a heartfelt move to address personal challenges stemming from the hurricanes impact, KJ-52 is hosting a liquidation sale of all his physical merchandise to fund repairs to his own home, which was damaged in the aftermath. Fans and supporters can browse and purchase at https://www.kj52.com/store. About KJ-52: Cape Coral-based KJ-52 holds a Guinness world record in freestyling. His noteworthy career includes six Dove Award wins, celebrating hits like Do Yo Thang and Never Look Away, and album successes such as Five-Two Television, KJ-52 Remixed, and Its Pronounced Five Two. Connect with KJ-52: https://kj52.com/ https://www.facebook.com/kj52 https://www.instagram.com/kj52instagram/ https://twitter.com/kj52 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2IaDmgY_Jfq_JYTzHLQZlQ https://open.spotify.com/artist/0kSHocNBxQeP9pr25l1scP Solomon Lews Premier Investments is well aware consumers are being crunched by living costs, but the challenging economic outlook is no barrier to the multibillion-dollar retailers global ambitions. Lew said when discussing on Thursday the groups record $1.6 billion in retail sales that the Smiggle and Peter Alexander operator was planning for a good Christmas trading period, but he was under no illusions about the pressure his customers were under due to rising fuel, mortgage and electricity costs. Peter Alexander sales jumped by 11.8 per cent. Credit: Edwina Pickles We think that those cost pressures are out of control, and we feel very, very much for the Australian consumer, he said. Growth of Premiers marquee brands was firmly on the agenda on Thursday despite the tough outlook. The company highlighted that it had identified more than 30 opportunities for potential new stores for Smiggle and between 20 and 30 options for new or larger-format Peter Alexander sites in the near future. This story is part of the Sydney Opera House 50th Anniversary Magazine. See all 9 stories . Own house, Hellebk (1952) Utzons open-plan home on the edge of a beech forest became the definitive Danish mid-20th century design. Credit: Jan Sndergaard Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size Like many young architects, Jrn Utzon threw all his creative wherewithal at the first house he designed for his family. Set in a glade on the edge of a protected beech forest in Hellebk, Denmark, and made from a quintessential Danish building material, bricks, the house references Chinese and Japanese architecture, the modernism of Frank Lloyd Wright and Mies van der Rohe, and the ancient ways of living that Utzon had seen in the Atlas Mountains and in Mexico. Utzon synthesised all these references, along with an artists sensibility to nature, into an original expression that came to represent the definitive modern house of mid-20th century Denmark. It was that countrys first open-plan house, pioneering the underfloor heating required to warm such open spaces, and its large double-paned windows. It had sliding doors and moveable walls in untreated Oregon pine, and a flat roof in aluminium sheeting with skylights that Utzon made himself, using an oven at the local bakery to mould the plastic. Inside Utzons Hellebk home. Credit: Jan Sndergaard Reached by an unsealed road through the forest, the house is first viewed as one long unbroken wall of slim whitish-yellow bricks. On the other side of this closed wall the house is completely open to the south-southwest, sitting on a low brick platform and looking out over rolling ground to the forest. Although experimental and unorthodox, the house was more than liveable, in tune with and in nature. Utzon called it a lair, peaceful and quiet, a private space for wife Lis and their children. At the time I was already aware that whatever rules and theories and references a house might follow, it must never eclipse the principal rule: to provide scope for the inhabitants to express themselves, he said. Hugely influential on a generation of architects, and larger than its original 130 square metres after an extension in the early 1960s, the house remains a standard-bearer: honest and simple, a limited palette of humble materials, wooden joint and visible construction as the only ornamentation, making the most of a small floor space and dissolving the boundaries between inside and out, something that fascinated Utzon throughout his working life. Advertisement Kingo or Roman houses (1957-59) The Roman houses have private courtyards and common areas. Credit: Jan Sndergaard Credit: Jan Sndergaard The year Jrn Utzon won the competition to design the Sydney Opera House, he also won the commission to build 60 houses on an undulating site with a small pond in Helsingr, in eastern Denmark. The two projects could not be more different: one of soaring ambitions and country-defining consequences, the other low-cost homes for shipbuilders and school teachers, financed by a government loan scheme that specified a maximum size of 104 square metres and a skimpy budget. Yet the two projects shared many of Utzons ideals: the sense of place and embracing of nature, an encyclopaedia of references from ancient cultures to innovative techniques, and a system of repeating few and similar elements that he later called additive architecture. Initially named after the Kingo Building Society which administered them, they became known as Romerhusene, or the Roman houses, because their almost unbroken buff-coloured brick perimeter walls and distinctive chimneys were reminiscent of the atrium houses of ancient Rome. They were the first of Utzons courtyard houses, an L-shaped building sitting on a 15-metre by 15-metre square-fenced plot, that could be repeated in a chain adapted to the terrain and varied organically to make the most of the sun while providing privacy. By keeping the houses small, Utzon was able to create a large common area for free-growing nature. Over 60 years the residents have maintained that common area collectively, so the houses are unusual in sociological terms, private and yet communal in character. Credit: Jan Sndergaard To British architecture critic and historian Kenneth Frampton, they are evidence that no other Western architect has more convincingly demonstrated the landscape-preserving and social virtues of this form of settlement. Long-term resident Birte Bech puts it more succinctly: My house makes me happy, she says in a book written by her husband, Jrgen Jrgensen, about the joy of living in a Roman house, which the couple has done for 25 years. I was happy to have an opportunity to tell that to Utzon before he died, says Jrgensen, an architect who knew the houses from their inception. Advertisement Unbuilt glass pagoda (1953) On the northern harbour of Copenhagen, not far from the citys Little Mermaid statue, is a glass and steel modernist box that is a stark reminder of what might have been erected on Bennelong Point had Jrn Utzons design for the Sydney Opera House been rejected. Its the building Danes got when Utzons visionary design for Copenhagen was passed over. Rather banal and better known for the PH Artichoke lamps designed for the interior than for the architecture, the existing Langelinie Pavilion is a building that 99 out of 100 architects would have designed in 1953, writes Holger Dahl in his book about unfinished architectural projects, Copenhagen of Dreams. That one outlier, Utzon, went vertical instead of horizontal, proposing a 10-storey tower that looks like a spiral, spinning, glass-walled organism. Utzons proposal was and is a stroke of genius, one of the first projects that could be called typically Utzon, says Dahl, who deems it Copenhagens most published, most famous and most regrettably unbuilt project. Utzons glass pagoda is Copenhagens most famous unbuilt project. Credit: Utzon Archives/Aalborg University & Utzon Center Utzon had climbed the rig of a barque on the harbour and worked out the tower had to stand higher than the five storey-rooftops of the city in order to see its historical spires in the round and, in turn, make its mark on the entire city and not just that piece of waterfront. Anticipating his design for the Opera House, he put all the non-public spaces into a single-floor podium, with restaurants stacked tier upon diminishing tier in a glass pagoda, as British architect and author Richard Weston writes. Topped by a flared viewing platform, the pavilion was inspired by Frank Lloyd Wrights SC Johnson Research Tower, which Utzon had seen, but clearly referenced Chinese pagodas, fungi and trees. Utzon even included in his entry a photograph by the German photographer Karl Blossfeldt of the cross-section of a stem of a horsetail plant and a wooden spiral model. Credit: Utzon Archives/Aalborg University & Utzon Center Utzon was, however, short on detail on how to build the glass facade and deal with its heating and cooling. A critique in the architectural press, while noting the popular appeal, suggested the proposal had insufficient regard to what is usable, what is constructive and to the climatic conditions. Nevertheless, Dahl believes the technical issues could have been resolved with 1950s know-how and Copenhagen would have got the landmark equivalent of Sydneys shells. Advertisement Bagsvrd Church (1968-76) The exterior of the Bagsvrd Church. Credit: Jan Sndergaard For Jrn Utzon, designing a building was a way of clarifying his relationship to nature. The breadth of the sky and the hanging clouds inspired me to design Bagsvrd Church with powerful tension in the concrete vaulting, Utzon said of the church in the suburb of the same name in Copenhagen, where he used light as a material of architecture, creating what he called cloud vaults in concrete cast on site. Loading The parishioners had been saving for a new church for 25 years when they approached Utzon in 1968, knowing the architect was short of work. The budget was tight, so he suggested concrete could be beautiful. It was easy to bring out something that was pure and healthy and straightforward. And that was the light. The church board and preachers gave him the freedom to design everything, using mostly local materials: four different kinds of concrete, some with marble added and smoothed, standard blocks bare or painted, oiled Swedish pine for the pews. When the cost estimate came in over budget, Utzon shrunk the plans by 10 per cent, a volumetric change that was barely noticeable once his assistant Oktay Nayman adjusted door heights and the like. Concrete cloud vaulting inside Bagsvrd Church. Credit: Jan Sndergaard Advertisement From the outside, on its unprepossessing site surrounded by busy roads, it looks more like a factory or a barn than a church, an intentional contrast that amplifies the effect of its interior. The church space is intimate, with a wide and shallow nave, above which the 18-metre span of white-painted reinforced concrete cascades like the billowing clouds Utzon had seen in Hawaii. The diffuse light, with no obvious source, envelops the congregation. A church organist describes the sensation as like looking into infinity. Nayman believes the church is Utzons most complete building. Daughter Lin wove textiles for the altar and vestments; Utzon even planted a stand of birch trees as a shield outside. It is the only building that Jrn built as he wanted in every respect: the planning, the structure, choice of material, the details, everything, says Nayman. Can Lis (1971-73) One way to view architecture is to evaluate a building purely from the sensation of joy it gives you, Jrn Utzon once said. Can Lis, his first home on Mallorca, near Porto Petro on the south-eastern coast, is the ultimate architectonic representation of this belief. Stripped bare and seemingly hewn out of the sandstone cliff it stands on, the house is a unity of place and view, challenging in some respects because of its exposure to the elements. It is a house experienced through your senses, intuitively moving between inside and out, seeking sun and shade, shelter and enclosure, observing the vastness of the sea to the horizon or the intimacy of views framed through deep window bays, which one commentator calls viewing barrels. Can Lis, Utzons home on the Spanish island of Mallorca. Credit: Alamy Utzon described Can Lis as a built expression placing man on the fringe of a landscape, four main pavilions set off square among pines and acacias, on a cliff 20 metres above the Mediterranean facing due south to Africa. Each pavilion has a purpose cooking and eating, living and relaxing, two for retreating and sleeping and to get from one to the other you have to go outside. Before building them, which Utzon did using local stone masons, he climbed down the ledges of the cliff and sat in a cave and thought about the siting: Its all so simple, no more than the way birds know instinctively where to nest on a cliff-top. Nature was always the guide, like a small village in stone seems like its been there for centuries yet is also new. In the mid-afternoon, a shaft of light illuminates the stone block walls through a vertical opening high on the western wall of the living room an effect Utzon called a poetic illustration of the passing of time. Advertisement Derek Deanes Strictly Gershwin is not what an audience would expect a typical ballet show to be in the best possible way. Theres still an enormous amount of classic ballet in it, Deane, the shows director and choreographer, explained. Queensland Ballets Strictly Gershwin runs from September 28 to October 7. Credit: Queensland Ballet But at the same time there are other elements in the production that create a different atmosphere for the audience. Those other elements include jazz, tap and ballroom dance, performed by all 60 of the Queensland Ballets company dancers. Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size This story is part of the Sydney Opera House 50th Anniversary Magazine. See all 9 stories . Spring in the Hellebk beech forest, when the floor becomes a carpet of white anemones flowering in the vivid green moss, draws Lin Utzon back to Denmark most years. Foreseeing the moment when the darkness lifts and the sunlight touches the earth in the forest, she returns from Mallorca, where she mainly lives. The beech trees are naked and the Japanese knotweed that marks a natural boundary to her property is bare and brown. When you walk in the forest, suddenly, instead of seeing skeletal branches you see buds, just starting to bulge. The winter had been long and dry, so the anemones that briefly flower before the young leaves block the light were less of a spectacle this year. But walking through the forest was, as ever, uplifting and regenerating. Everybody becomes euphoric, even me. Lin with her father, Jrn. Credit: Lars Hansen Hellebk is in the northernmost part of Zealand, a short drive from Helsingr, the home of Kronborg, or Hamlets Castle, which sits on a promontory on the resund strait facing Sweden, with long strands of coastline stretching in either direction. It was from here that Lins father Jrn Utzon conceived the Sydney Opera House in 1956, observing how people moved in and around the castles towers and bastions, and understanding innately how the building should be perceived as if viewed from all sides, and from above. We are meeting in Lins home and studio in Hellebk in late spring, sitting in the sun on a timber deck on the edge of a forest, to talk about Jrn the architect and Jrn the father. They are one and the same to Lin. The genius and the builder, the lover of nature and the humanist, who believed in building for people with conviction and sincerity. The architect who worked like a sculptor and strove for a unified whole, whether embarking on the once-in-a-lifetime Sydney Opera House project or the low-cost, catalogue-type house that is Lins Danish home. But the forest of majestic beech trees and the beach are her real home where you feel you know everything without seeing it and her most fundamental connection to her father, who found them a constant source of wonderment and inspiration. My laboratory is the beech forests, and the sea, and the clouds, Utzon once wrote. Talking to Lin brings you close to Jrn. Now in her 70s, Lin looks like her late father, with the same long, angular face, blonde turned white hair and striking blue eyes. More than the physical resemblance, she has the aura that people talked about when meeting Jrn, a radiance that comes from within. An acclaimed artist working in large-scale ceramics and textiles, Lin has experienced her fathers architecture in its entirety, participating in the architectural process, collaborating with him, and living in his houses, each notable, whether monumental or modest. She grew up in the modern flat-roof house Jrn built for the family on the edge of the protected beech forest, only realising as an adult how extraordinary it was for the time. We did everything as one, she says of her life with parents Jrn and Lis, older brother Jan and the youngest, Kim. Lin in Mallorca, with one of her artworks. Credit: Jean marie del Moral Jan lives in the original family house while hers, a short drive away, is the prototype of what Jrn called his catalogue or Espansiva houses, because you could buy the elements you needed and put them together yourself. Designed in 1969 as a simple, Japanese-inspired wooden system, the Espansiva houses never caught on. But the display model built around a courtyard is an exercise in perfect simplicity, its exposed wooden beams and large expanses of windows creating a sense of space beyond its footprint. Lin says it shows her fathers genius in that he created a system so inexpensive and adaptable that you could build a house in a month: He thought about things completely differently from anybody else I have ever met. But there is a very practical side to him. People say, Oh, hes a fantasist and a dreamer but he was a fantastic builder with all those practicalities. Advertisement In a glass-walled walkway leading to the rear deck are two long cabinets with filing drawers for artworks. On top of one, surrounded by Lins distinctive blue and white ceramics, is the simple wooden model with four white painted wedges that her father made to demonstrate his spherical solution for the Opera Houses roof. Called the Key, the model in which triangles are cut from a sphere, like slicing an orange solved an engineering problem Utzon equated to climbing Mount Everest for the first time. For Lin it demonstrates a way of thinking, like Einsteins, where the end result seems simple because a great mind has distilled it. They fished out the absolute essence of something with incredible concentration. Its not, as some people would have it, that my father was naive, and Oops, heres an orange and now we have an opera house, not at all. His was a brilliant mind. Lin and Jan Utzon, the children of Sydney Opera House architect Jorn Utzon, will talk on Tuesday at a lecture for the buildings 50th anniversary on October 20, 1973. She says she thinks of her parents every day. All the really marvellous thoughts. It sounds terribly holier-than-thou but they had a pure access to life, which I am really glad I was exposed to. They knew all the evil that exists but they focused on the beauty and the kindness and our miraculous existence as humans. This humanity is the foundation of Utzons architecture. It was also the spirit that enabled him to deal with the aftermath of his forced resignation from the unfinished Opera House project. Lin was 20 when they returned to Denmark in 1966, wrenched away from her art school friends at East Sydney Tech and having to confront the blame and shame that followed her father home. The Danish Association of Architects said we will never give you a public work in Denmark because you left a job, with no understanding of how impossible his situation was. Utzon was 48. In his creative prime, but his own country would find no employment for arguably the most talented architect of his generation in the world, writes Richard Weston in his 2001 book, Utzon. A model showing Utzons solution for the shape of the Sydney Opera House roof. Credit: Utzon Archives/Aalborg University & Utzon Center Working from a studio in the garage at Hellebk with one young colleague, Utzon won very few commissions. By 1971 hed given up on Denmark, taking a post teaching architecture at the University of Hawaii in Honolulu. In Mallorca, where the Utzons had holidayed while living in Sydney, on a sandstone cliff facing the sea, he built another house with a capital H, Can Lis, named in honour of his wife and considered one of the most important homes of the 20th century. Completed in 1973, its 50th anniversary celebration was a precursor to those marking the opening of the Opera House. Lin lived in Can Lis for 10 years after her parents moved to Can Feliz, on the mountainside above the coast, completed in 1994 and Utzons final design. She now lives in Can Feliz, where her father articulated columns to frame the view as if seen through trees in a forest. Utzon was living in Can Feliz when he won the Pritzker Prize in 2003, the highest honour in architecture. Famously elusive, he had no interest in attending the award ceremony hosted by King Juan Carlos I in Madrid. Lin and Jan went in his place. Lin recalls that when she apologised for her fathers absence, saying he would not have coped with all the fanfare, the king said, But he has a telephone, doesnt he? and dialled the number she gave him. He introduced himself, This is the King of Spain and proceeded to have a long conversation with Dad, whom I could just see in his shorts in Mallorca feeling delighted. Advertisement It set my father free of certain demons that had haunted him. Lin Utzon Four years later, UNESCO placed the Opera House on its World Heritage list, calling it a great urban sculpture carefully set in a remarkable waterscape and a world famous iconic building. The listing was the culmination of years of concerted effort to right the wrongs against Utzon and cement enduring recognition for his masterpiece, a rapprochement in which Lin was instrumental. She recalls one pivotal meeting in the late 1990s with then NSW premier Bob Carr, her great friend the artist Martin Sharp and architect Harry Seidler, one of Utzons most vocal advocates, to discuss how a peace could be made. Seidler demanded an apology; Carr said no way. On it went, back and forth, then they both asked me, Does your dad want an apology? and I said, No, he doesnt, but if you want to show him your appreciation, ask him to help you. So they did. Utzon agreed to document his original vision and intentions as a set of design principles that could be a framework for any future work on the Opera House, writing with typical good grace that all big projects have impossibilities built into them from the start. It was a very happy end, if you can call it that. It set my father free of certain demons that had haunted him. Loading When Utzon died in 2008, flags flew at half-mast in Australia, evidence of a reconciliation Lin believes is extraordinary. Its amazing that the situation even exists where Dad has been recognised and adored. For Lin, returning to Sydney for the 50th festivities is a homecoming of sorts to a country she loves and longs for, where her son Mika lives and where she has two grandchildren, one of them named Eero after Eero Saarinen, the Finnish-American architect who salvaged Utzons competition entry from the rejects pile. Unlike those who perceive the Opera House as a flawed masterpiece, forever compromised by the way it was completed, she believes it is nothing short of a miracle. A building that would never have been constructed in Europe at that time. A building that changed the identity of the country, inspiring young people to raise their cultural or artistic aspirations. I know its a miracle and I know when I see it I become very intensely moved by the fact that my darling father created it. If you could change one thing about the Opera House, what would it be? I would increase the back office areas. It was built for two halls and 60 administration people; weve ended up with really seven performance spaces and close to 1000 staff, a good proportion of whom have to work off site, which is disappointing. We have a real problem with storage, too, which is an issue when youre rotating shows in and out, and limits what we can present. Richard Evans: CEO 2008-2012 What are you proud of achieving during your term? Were all part of a continuum, so to continue the re-engagement with the Utzon family was really important. I remember visiting Jrn Utzon in Denmark and talking about his vision for the Opera House, and him saying he didnt want it to be a monument. He wanted it to be a living building that changed with the needs of the artists and the audience. The role of Bennelong Point was really important in Indigenous reconciliation and we did the first Reconciliation Action Plan in the arts, and appointed Rhoda Roberts to the role of First Nations programming, which she said was a first anywhere in the world. We got money to redo the underground loading dock and take cars off the Forecourt, which began the renewal works. In programming theres so much: we worked with Destination NSW on the inaugural Vivid festival, when the sails were lit with art for the first time, and established the Festival of Dangerous Ideas, Spring Dance, Kids at the House, the World Orchestras programming and so on. Richard Evans with Utzon in Denmark in 2008, a few months after Evans became Opera House CEO. Can you tell me about some of the memorable performances? There are so many. The opening of the Berlin Philharmonic; Christopher Hitchens at the Festival of Dangerous Ideas saying why the Pope should go on trial; the Japanese thrash metal band Boris playing in The Studio, the loudest thing Ive ever heard in my life; and Oprah Winfrey recording her show there in 2010, which really amplified Australias tourism assets. A favourite visiting dignitary? I remember giving John Travolta a midnight tour; he didnt want to come when there were lots of people around. He was warm, generous, friendly and curious. Did you ever get sick of that office view? No. I remember the boss of Washingtons John F. Kennedy Center saying, You have the best office of any arts centre in the world. I said, Not just of any arts centre, of any office, full stop. If you could change one thing about the Opera House, what would it be? The way the sails get lit up so often; its not a screen and shouldnt be used as one. Its cheap and demeaning and takes away from its specialness. There should be a moratorium on it. Norman Gillespie: CEO 2002-2007 Norman Gillespie with Jrn Utzon at his house in Mallorca, 2003; Utzon is wearing his Pritzker Prize medallion. Credit: Courtesy of Norma Gillespie Tell me about some great moments. When Jrn Utzon won the Pritzker prize [in 2003] his son Jan said, Do you want to take the medal to my father? He couldnt do it himself. So I went to Mallorca and pressed the doorbell to their home. Out came his wife, Lis, who interviewed me for about half an hour. She usually sent everyone away, saying he was not available, but I got through. Jrn came bounding up to me like a great Dane and I gave him his medal. He put it around his neck and didnt take it off. To get World Heritage listing we had to go through a lot of heritage angst, worries about the precinct, the closeness to the Toaster and so on. It took two to three years, but it wasnt the length of time it took, it was the number of meetings. What kept you awake at night during your tenure? Heightened security concerns. The Iraq War began in 2003 and the Opera House was identified as a prime potential target. We had to quickly ramp up security to unprecedented levels, include erecting permanent security barriers for the first time. The morning [in 2003] No War was painted on the sails, I was in a meeting. At 8.30am, the marketing director rushed in and said, You have to come, theyre on the roof! The first call was from [then premier] Bob Carr yelling at me; hed been doorstopped about it and someone had said there was a ladder. I had to explain that we didnt know how they got up there. The real shame was that they used cement-based red paint the clean-up was absolutely horrendous. Workmen remove anti-Iraq War graffiti painted on the Opera House sails, 2003. Credit: Rick Stevens Name one performance thats stuck with you. Bringing the Vienna Philharmonic to Australia for the first time in their 160-year history with conductor Valery Gergiev was pretty special. The performances were extraordinary no complaints about acoustics from them, they simply adapted but thats not why it stuck with me. I was concerned that only well-heeled patrons could experience them with ticket prices in the hundreds of dollars, so I approached the orchestra to ask if we could broadcast a simultaneous transmission to a large screen on the Forecourt, which would be open to all on a first-come, first-served basis. I was brought to tears when I stood on the Opera House steps and saw the queue all the way up Macquarie Street. Some 3500 eventually filled the Forecourt. The transmission had a delay of a few minutes and Gergiev suggested he bring the brass section out after the concert to give the non-paying audience an additional live experience. The crowd were ecstatic as Gergiev addressed them in his huge black cloak. Thats what making arts accessible to all is about. If you could change one thing about the Opera House, what would it be? I wish wed got those beautiful great spans of glass without the very 1970s angular kink which, for practical engineering reasons at the time, were the compromise. Also, I wish the underground car park had been placed in the ownership of Opera House [its independently owned and run]; the revenue would have supported so many more accessible shows and events over the years. Michael Lynch: CEO 1998-2002 Crowds at Charlie Perkins 2000 wake. Credit: Sylvia Vincent What were some of your proudest moments there? We hosted the reconciliation conference in 2000, when a lot of Indigenous people turned their backs on then prime minister John Howard, and in 2000 we held the wake for Charlie Perkins. Thousands marched with his coffin from Town Hall down to the Opera House. I think it was the first time it was ever that full of Indigenous people. And on New Years Eve 1999, when everyone was worried about Y2K, we had William Barton playing the didgeridoo from the top of the sails. That was a very special moment. What kept you awake at night? I was there for September 11, and within 10 days of that happening we lost 40 to 45 per cent of our audience, which had been largely tourist-based. That was very challenging. Mostly the things that keep you awake as a boss of a performing arts venue, though, are things that will happen at night, when youre not there. Its your concern for the performers, the front-of-house people, how theyll cope if something terrible happens, that you worry about. Tell me about a performance that has stuck with you. Andrea Bocelli and Kylie Minogue doing a concert on the Forecourt ahead of the opening of the Sydney Olympics was pretty mind-blowing. There were leaders there from all over the world, and at one point the moon came up as a big golden orb behind the stage. Early in the disability royal commission Quaden Bayles a nine-year-old boy with dwarfism who had given harrowing evidence about being bullied at his primary school said three words that left a profound impression on chair Ronald Sackville. Just be kind, Quaden said, when asked what message he had for new children who hadnt learned about his disability. Quaden Bayles plea for people to Just be kind left a lasting impression on royal commission chair Ronald Sackville. Credit: Dan Peled This young boy saying that just really left a mark, Sackville says. This is what the royal commission is about we have to change community attitudes towards people with disability because that is the source of discrimination, abuse, violence and exploitation. He just encapsulated that. After 4 years, 32 public hearings, 1785 private sessions, almost 8000 submissions, 28 research reports and about $600 million the most expensive royal commission in Australian history the final report was handed to the governor-general on Thursday. It is expected to be made public on Friday. The state government is adamant Sydneys central business district can accommodate more intensive residential development, putting it on a collision course with the city council, which warns it wont be a silver bullet for tackling the housing crisis. A war of words erupted between the premier and lord mayor, as Minns said he would attempt to give peace a chance and work with Clover Moore to boost the number of homes in the citys core, or otherwise use the states planning powers to overrule her. Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore. Credit: Steven Siewert But Moore said the councils planning controls did not prohibit dwellings in the citys core, which was already home to 30,000 people, with another 4000 homes approved or under construction. Minns on Friday accused the council of effectively outlaw[ing] apartments in the city centre, and said the City of Sydney had to do more to encourage residential development in the area. More homes would help revive the CBDs 24-hour economy, Minns told 2GB Radio, and the government had the laws and regulations in place already to make changes. Steady rain over much of south-east Queensland on Thursday afternoon has downgraded the bushfire threat for the region. On Thursday morning, smouldering bushfires near Flagstone and Beaudesert produced a thick smoke haze over Bridsbane and placed residents near Muldoon at risk of moving from their homes. However, the rain means is extremely unlikely there will be a repeat of Thursday mornings early morning smoke haze, a Queensland Fire and Emergency Services spokesman said. The level of warning has been downgraded and absorbed into that broader avoid smoke warning for all of Logan, Ipswich, Scenic Rim and Brisbane, he said. Workplace Health and Safety Queensland has halted work at an inner-Brisbane job site following the death of a teenage worker, who fell several metres at the West End site. It was understood Tyler Whitton, who recently celebrated his 17th birthday, began in the industry only a short time ago. A WHSQ spokeswoman said its inspectors had issued a non-disturbance notice, which would preserve the site while investigations were undertaken. Compliance notices have been issued requiring rectification of a number of high-risk issues before works can recommence, she said. Fortescues workforce will leave its East Perth digs named after the company and move into an office space on St Georges Terrace that has recently been deserted by Chevron. In a memo sent to employees by the companys metals and energy chief executives Dino Otranto and Mark Hutchison on Thursday, they revealed the entire company would be brought under the same roof at 256 St Georges Terrace from the middle of next year. Fortescue will move to its new home in the middle of next year. Credit: Google Maps This isnt just about a building. Its about moving forward as One Fortescue, with the scene set for strong collaboration as we work towards our shared mission, the memo said. The Andrew Forrest-led company said the move would be completed in phases. Advocate and Gomeroi woman Nicole Laupepa 51, and educator Jacqui Parker, 64, travel all over Australia giving workshops on the Voice. Their odd-couple friendship is reconciliation in action. Nicole Laupepa (left): Were very different in many ways, but shes the other half of me. Credit: Abril Felman/City of Sydney Jacqui: We met about six years ago, when we both worked at a multicultural settlement service in Sydney, where I was implementing a training program. Soon after, I asked Nic to do an acknowledgment of country. Afterwards, on the feedback forms, it was the thing everyone liked most. Many were refugees. She has this way of making people feel incredibly welcome, of opening their hearts. We have each others backs. In the work of late, Ive come up against some antisemitism. She wont tolerate it. Shes very spiritual and very religious; I dont believe at all, although Im culturally Jewish. When were home in Sydney, Nic comes over regularly for Shabbat dinner. It means so much to her: the prayers, the lighting of the candles and so on. She has a very strong and passionate connection to Judaism and Israel, much stronger than mine. If I could, Id take away some of her pain and heartbreak. It is threaded all through her life as an Indigenous woman, including the racism she grew up with and still experiences, as well as the trauma of losing six babies to miscarriages. She came from a very loving family and absolutely adored her mother, but I can tell that her mums attitude was very much: We dont indulge our emotions; we just get up and get on with it. I think that has left its mark. You feel guilty if you indulge yourself, so you go to a place of anger rather than sadness. A veteran public servant who played a key role in the development of the AUKUS defence pact and the Quad security dialogue is a frontrunner to be appointed to one of the countrys most significant and challenging diplomatic postings: ambassador to China. Two sources within the foreign policy community said Scott Dewar, currently serving as a senior foreign policy adviser to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, is widely expected to fill the role when current ambassador Graham Fletcher returns to Australia from Beijing in the coming months. Scott Dewar, who served as a diplomat in Beijing from 2003 to 2007, is highly regarded for his Mandarin language skills. Underlining the fraught task the next ambassador will face in Beijing, Chinas ambassador to Australia on Thursday warned Australian politicians including former prime minister Scott Morrison against travelling to Taiwan, arguing that doing so could undermine Australia-China relations and fuel separatist sentiment on the self-governing island. A delegation of Australian politicians from across the political spectrum is currently visiting Taiwan, and Morrison is scheduled to give a speech there in early October. Pearson said the opponents of the Voice had never admitted to this misrepresentation of the core proposal. It has been in their interest to conflate the two things race and indigeneity, he said. Its crucial to their campaign. But I would ask Australians to understand this is not about race. This is about Indigenous. And the simple question about Indigenous is, were there peoples here before 1788? And the answer is yes. There were Aborigines, and there were Torres Strait Islanders. And thats what were recognising not a separate race. This should not be contentious. The United Nations says there are about 370 million indigenous people in 70 countries. This is not about the colour of their skin, or stereotypes about who they are and how they behave. It is about their connection to the land before others arrived in more recent history. The argument in favour of the Voice is simple: it is to be an advisory committee, made permanent in the Constitution, with its powers and functions defined by parliament. The claim about race, however, is unstoppable now the pressure has been unleashed and this helps explain the undeniable racism in the debate, especially online. There are fair reasons a voter might want to say no the Voice, such as a sense of caution about changing the Constitution or a distrust of the way parliament might empower the new advisory group. Australians will vote as they see fit. But arguments based on race are the last thing the country needs. This week saw two utterly different visions for Australia after October 14. Mundine urged Australians to reject the declaration of war in the Uluru Statement, while Pearson promised a peace dividend by settling old divisions. Loading Pearsons vision seemed idyllic. He spoke of the Voice as a forum that could reach from a national peak to local meetings in a marquee under the mango trees in places like Aurukun in Cape York. He talked about how these local groups could meet every quarter, with Indigenous people on one side of the table and bureaucrats on the other, to talk about justice, housing, health, education and more. Theres no construction of special offices, no creation of special bureaucracies, Pearson said. That assurance will probably seem naive to anyone who is cynical about the way governments work which means most of us. But consider the utopian vision from the No side, which sets out a future where a simple No vote can end victimhood. Mundine portrayed the Voice as a return to segregation. No other group of Australians will have an unelected body enshrined in the Constitution to speak on their behalf with a presumed uniform opinion, he said. Setting aside the casual misinformation in that sentence a key fact is that the government wants the Voice to be an elected body the argument is that the Voice would continue a form of special treatment when all Australians should be treated the same way. This seems far more naive than the Yes argument for an advisory body. While it might be possible for the country to attain true equality for its Indigenous and non-Indigenous citizens, that day is some way off. The regular reports on closing the gap show the scale of Indigenous disadvantage on health, education and other measures. Mundine glossed over one example of the gap between the two worlds by saying it was just not true that young Indigenous people were more likely to go to jail than university. Unfortunately, there were about 13,000 prisoners from Indigenous backgrounds in 2021, and only 3500 graduates that year, according to figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics and Universities Australia. In other words, almost four prisoners for every graduate. Data from the Productivity Commission also shows scale of the education gap. Mundine was right to emphasise the importance of education and work and he should know, given he climbed his way out of poverty by going to night classes to finish school. Beneath his argument, however, was the idea that things are not that bad. The fact is that most Indigenous Australians are doing fine, he said. This told Australians what they would like to believe is true. Actually, too many Indigenous Australians are not doing fine at all. The federal opposition has blasted a major army restructure by the Albanese government, arguing that the plan to move around 800 troops to northern Australia and abolish two combat units will weaken the armys ability to win a land war, damage morale and undermine the Defence Forces bid to attract and retain more uniformed personnel. While welcoming the relocation of hundreds of Defence roles to north Queensland, the mayor of Townsville warned the overhaul would strain the already stretched supply of housing in the city and called for more detail on where the relocated troops and their families would live. Opposition defence spokesman Andrew Hastie said the changes would damage army morale. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Opposition defence spokesman Andrew Hastie said the relocation of army units to Darwin, Townsville and Adelaide confirmed the government was planning to shrink and disperse the army. This will make us weaker, Hastie said of the biggest army restructure since 2011. We need to be investing in army, our people, and combat power instead we are shrinking our land forces to one armoured brigade. Bhar Singh Pura, Punjab: There are two kinds of people in Bhar Singh Pura. Those who are too scared to talk about the alleged terrorist who grew up in this village in northern India and died at the hands of an assassin in Canada, and those who are determined to defend a man who they believe has done nothing wrong. At the centre of it all is Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a milkmans son who became the leader of a fringe Sikh independence movement before he was shot dead outside a temple in his adopted home country in June. Sikh man Hardeep Singh Nijjar was killed in Canada. Credit: Sikh man Hardeep Singh Nijjar was killed in Canada. The 45-year-olds killing has thrust his family and his village into a diplomatic dispute that has consumed India and Canada, fuelled accusations of terrorism and espionage and driven relations between two of Australias most important partners to historic lows. In Bhar Singh Pura, the fear of reprisals from a growing Hindu nationalist movement has made many residents scared to speak publicly about the man they knew as a boy. Nikki Haley Trumps former UN ambassador, Nikki Haley, also went on the attack, assailing her ex-boss for not being tough enough on China. This is where president Trump went wrong: he focused on trade with China but he didnt focus on the fact that they were buying up our farmland. He didnt focus on the fact that they were killing Americans [by producing fentanyl]. He didnt focus on the fact that they were stealing $US600 billion in intellectual property, she said. Former US ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley speaks during the second Republican presidential primary debate. Credit: AP We need to start focusing on what keeps Americans safe. That hasnt happened in a long time. As your president, I will make sure every American is safe and well do whatever it takes to make that happen. Vivek Ramaswamy After standing out at last months debate in Wisconsin, 38-year-old biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy became a target this time. Haley, Senator Tim Scott and former vice president Mike Pence all took swipes at the brash newcomer, who has campaigned as a political outsider with populist positions in the mould of Trump. Vivek Ramaswamy speaks during a Republican presidential primary. Credit: AP Ramaswamy has been particularly controversial over the war in Ukraine, making it clear he does not support continuing to give US aid to the country. He doubled down, calling for a reasonable peace plan to end the war and declaring that just because [Vladimir] Putin is an evil dictator does not mean that Ukraine is good. Tim Scott The Republican senator for South Carolina, Tim Scott, who struggled to capture attention in the first debate, was given the opening question of the night about controversial comments he previously made suggesting workers who go on strike ought to be fired. The question emerged a day after Joe Biden became the first sitting president in US history to join a picket line, standing in solidarity with union workers as they pushed for better pay, shorter work weeks and assurances from Americas top automakers that new electric vehicle jobs will be unionised. Senator Tim Scott. Credit: AP Asked if he stood by his comments, Scott appeared to walk them back, saying: Obviously the president of the United States cannot fire anybody in the private sector. But he also criticised Biden, adding that: Joe Biden should not be on the picket line he should be on the southern border working to close our southern border because it is unsafe, wide open and insecure. Mike Pence Former vice president Mike Pence has had to walk a fine line when it comes to attacking his former boss, given the key role Pence played in the Trump administration. However, he used part of his time on the stage to accuse the former president of having a plan to consolidate more power in Washington, DC rather than make government smaller. Former vice president Mike Pence. Credit: AP If Im president of the United States, its my intention to make the federal government smaller by returning to the states those resources and programs that are rightfully theirs, he said. That means all Obamacare funding, all housing funding, all HHS (Department of Human Health and Services) funding - all of it goes back to the States. Were going to revive federalism in America and states are going to help bring America back. Chris Christie Former New Jersey governor Chris Christie has been one of the few Republicans willing to hit out at Trump, and Wednesday night was no exception. He lashed out at the former president for failing to meet his 2016 election promise to build a wall at the US-Mexico border and for refusing to show up to the debate. Former New Jersey governor Chris Christie. Credit: AP Donald, I know youre watching you cant help yourself, Christie added, staring into the camera. Youre not here tonight because youre afraid of being on the stage and defending your record. Youre ducking these things. And let me tell you whats going to happen: if you keep doing that, no one up here is going to call you Donald Trump any more. Were gonna call you Donald Duck. The attacks represent an escalation of rhetoric against Trump by some of his top primary race rivals as they struggle to build the momentum they need to overtake the former president for the GOPs presidential nomination, which will be decided next year ahead of Novembers election. Attendees hold signs supporting former US President Donald Trump during a campaign event at Drake Enterprises in Clinton Township, Michigan Credit: Bloomberg Except for former governors Christie and Asa Hutchinson (of Arkansas, who failed to qualify for the second debate) very few of candidates have fought Trump aggressively, fearing it could alienate his loyal base. But this has proven to be an unviable strategy, with Trump continuing to soar in the polls, despite his myriad legal woes. The latest FiveThirtyEight poll has Trump at 54 per cent compared to DeSantis, his next closest rival, at 13.8 per cent. Haley and biotech entrepreneur Ramaswamy are polling at 6.3 per cent each, followed by Pence at 4.6 per cent. Christie, Scott and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, who was also at the debate, are all longshot chances, with less than three per cent each. From left to right, Republican presidential candidates Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, and Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., prepare to debate during a Republican presidential primary debate hosted by FOX Business Network and Univision, Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023 Credit: AP Like the second debate which Trump skipped, this time, he headed to Michigan a state he won in 2016 but lost to Biden in 2020 hoping to woo working-class voters amid a United Auto Workers strike in Detroit. Toronto: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has apologised for parliaments recognition of a man who fought alongside the Nazis during last weeks address by Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trudeau said the speaker of the House of Commons, who resigned on Tuesday, was solely responsible for the invitation and recognition of the man but said it was a mistake that has deeply embarrassed Parliament and Canada. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau apologises. Credit: AP All of us who were in the House on Friday regret deeply having stood and clapped, even though we did so unaware of the context, Trudeau said on Wednesday before he entered the House of Commons. It was a horrendous violation of the memory of the millions of people who died in the Holocaust, and was deeply, deeply painful for Jewish people. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are said to be "unable" to return to the United Kingdom without the security they need. (Photo: REUTERS) In a heartwarming gesture of solidarity and support, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, have partnered with The GEANCO Foundation to make a significant donation aimed at benefiting young female students in Nigeria. This philanthropic endeavor underscores the couple's commitment to promoting education and health, especially for young women in regions facing challenges. The donation, facilitated through their non-profit organization, the Archewell Foundation, comprises school supplies and menstrual products. These essential items are intended to equip the students for a successful academic year, ensuring they have the necessary tools and resources to thrive in their educational pursuits. A statement from the Archewell Foundation's website elaborated on the initiative, noting, "As students around the world returned to school this month, The Archewell Foundation supported girls' education and health by sending school supplies and menstrual products to young scholars in Nigeria with The GEANCO Foundation." The GEANCO Foundation, which has a longstanding reputation for providing critical healthcare and educational services in Nigeria, has been instrumental in this collaboration. Their David Oyelowo Leadership Scholarship is particularly noteworthy, offering full tuition, medical care, and comprehensive social and emotional support to young female victims of terrorism and gender inequality in Nigeria. In addition to the tangible items, the Archewell Foundation's contribution will facilitate menstrual health education for approximately 2,500 girls in regions where The GEANCO Foundation operates. This initiative underscores the importance of holistic well-being for young women in school, ensuring they are equipped not only with academic tools but also with knowledge about their own health. The GEANCO Foundation took to Instagram to share a glimpse of this collaboration, showcasing behind-the-scenes images of their team diligently filling backpacks with classroom essentials, including pencil cases, water bottles, and feminine hygiene products. The joy and gratitude of the students were palpable, with images capturing their radiant smiles as they posed with their new backpacks. This charitable endeavor follows Nigeria's debut at the 2023 Invictus Games in Germany, an event that the Sussexes ardently supported. During this event, the couple had the opportunity to interact with the Nigerian team, with Meghan Markle receiving the honorary name "Amira Ngozi Lolo." Interestingly, a recent genealogy test revealed that the Duchess of Sussex has a 43% Nigerian ancestry, further deepening her connection to the nation. The Tuticorin-based Tamilnad Mercantile Bank (TMB)'s managing director and chief executive officer, Krishnan Sankarasubramaniam, has resigned from the post, citing personal reasons. This comes within thirteen months since he was appointed on September 4 last year. "Though I still have about two-thirds of my term to go, due to personal reasons, I have decided to resign as managing director and CEO of the Bank. However, in as much as the bank has only one whole-time director, I will seek the guidance of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in this regard," Krishnan said in his resignation letter. Krishnan also served as the managing director and CEO of Punjab and Sind Bank from September 4, 2020, to May 31, 2022. Krishnan was also the executive director of Canara Bank from April 1, 2020, to September 3, 2020, before joining Punjab and Sind Bank. Before Canara Bank, he served as the executive director of Syndicate Bank between November 1, 2017, and March 31, 2020. The Election Commission will be on a three-day visit to Rajasthan beginning Friday to assess preparedness in the poll-bound state. Chief Election Commissioner Rajeev Kumar, Election Commissioners Anup Chandra Pandey and Arun Goyal will hold a meeting with representatives of recognised political parties in Jaipur on Friday, Chief Electoral Officer Praveen Gupta said. After this, the Commission will hold a discussion with nodal officers of the Rajasthan Police, income tax, excise, transport, commercial tax department, railways and airport etc. On August 30, a presentation will be given to the team by the Chief Electoral Officer, State Police Nodal Officer and Central Police Force Nodal Officers on the preparations for the polls. From October 3, the poll panel will be in Telangana for three days to take stock of election readiness, official sources said here on Thursday. Following the visit to the last two of the five poll-bound states, the EC is likely to announce election schedule in the first week of October, it is believed. Assembly polls are likely to be held in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Mizoram and Rajasthan in November-December. The term of the legislative assembly of Mizoram ends on December 17 this year. The Mizo National Front is in power in the northeastern state. The terms of the legislative assemblies of Telangana, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan end on different dates in January next year. While the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) rules Telangana, Madhya Pradesh is ruled by the BJP. Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan have Congress governments. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP president J P Nadda held night-long discussions with the party's Rajasthan leadership here on a range of issues about the upcoming assembly elections. The meeting began at a hotel late on Wednesday evening and continued till 2 am, party sources said. The discussions were held amid a buzz that two central ministers might be asked to contest the upcoming polls. The speculation follows the BJP's decision to name three Union ministers and four MPs in its second list of candidates for poll-bound Madhya Pradesh. Shah and Nadda arrived in Jaipur on a special plane on Wednesday evening and headed to a hotel near the airport where the core committee meeting started. Party sources said that Shah and Nadda first held a meeting with former chief minister Vasundhara Raje that lasted for around 15 minutes. It was followed by a meeting with senior leaders in which constituencies and the party's election strategy were discussed. Feedback on the four 'Parivartan Yatras' that the BJP held recently was also discussed. Union minister and the party's election in-charge for Rajasthan Pralhad Joshi, co-in-charge Nitin Patel, BJP's in-charge for Rajasthan Arun Singh, state unit president C P Joshi, Union Ministers Gajendra Singh, Arjun Meghwal, Kailash Chaudhary, leader of opposition in Assembly Rajendra Rathore, deputy leader of opposition Satish Poonia and other leaders were present at the meeting, the sources said. The meeting continued for around three hours. Poonia and MP Rajyavardhan Rathore were the first to leave the venue after the first round. Nadda and Shah held the next round of meeting with the BJP's national general secretary (organisation) B L Santosh, Union minister Pralhad Joshi, Nitin Patel, Arun Singh, Kuldeep Vishnoi and Vijaya Rahatkar, among others, the party sources said. "The leaders held discussions on the assembly constituencies and brainstormed on ways to win the maximum number of seats in Mewar, Vagad, Shekhawati, Hadauti and Marwar regions and in eastern Rajasthan in the assembly and Lok Sabha elections," a source said. "In the meeting, a clear message was sent out that the party organisation is supreme and all have to work together to ensure victory of the party in the elections." Also Read Rajasthan Assembly Elections 2023: All you need to know about the state New Bollywood movies releasing in the upcoming week: All you need to know Will decide who will be Madhya Pradesh CM after poll result, says Amit Shah OTT Movies And Web Series Releases in September 2023; all detail inside Rajasthan elections: BJP to stage protest in state over daily power cuts Rajasthan's JJM connections may be better than many states, says PHED Ahead of state polls, Rajasthan minister claims Centre behind ED raid BJP will announce candidates for Rajasthan polls soon: Pralhad Joshi Rajasthan will secure Congress a bigger victory than other states: Gehlot CM Gehlot to begin 9-day yatra for 'Mission 2023' ahead of Rajasthan polls Some leaders said that ticket distribution and other poll-related issues were discussed in the meeting. Sources in the BJP's Rajasthan unit said Union Jal Shakti minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal may be fielded in the assembly polls, along with some other MPs. However, the party leaders who came out of the hotel refrained from sharing details of the meeting with the media. Convener of the election management committee Narayan Panchariya said the party's authorised person will share details of the meeting with the media. Nadda and Shah will meet local RSS leaders on Thursday morning, party sources said. There is speculation that senior RSS pracharak Prakash Chand may be given certain responsibilities in the upcoming Assembly election. Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha launched the e-Cabinet system at the Secretariat on Wednesday. The Chief Minister also presided over the first Council of Ministers meeting, conducted entirely without paper. It is worth noting that Tripura now stands as the fourth state in India to implement the e-cabinet system, according to a press release by the Chief Minister's office. "In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Digital India initiative, the Tripura Cabinet has transitioned to a paperless system. Today, we introduced the e-Cabinet at the Secretariat and conducted the inaugural meeting of the Council of Ministers in this new digital format. Tripura now joins the ranks of four states in the country with this e-cabinet facility, marking a significant stride towards smart governance in Tripura." Saha emphasized that the state government is actively pursuing e-Office implementation in mission mode, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision. "Subsequently, we sought to do even more. After Uttaranchal, Uttar Pradesh, and Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura became the fourth state to adopt the E-Cabinet system. Among the 28 states, Tripura now holds the fourth position. We are ahead in many aspects. In Tripura, several departments have taken the initiative to implement the e-Office, ensuring seamless governance. The primary objective of E-Office and E-Cabinet is to alleviate the challenges posed by managing extensive paper records. Accountability is also enhanced. To overcome these issues, PM Modi has consistently advocated for digitization, and we have achieved it. This will be advantageous for the next generation. Sometimes, it was difficult to locate specific files, but now everything is accessible with just a click, and the document is right in front of you," Dr. Saha explained. Saha also shared that approximately 4,250 individuals in 94 departments have received training, with some still pending. "Over 25,000 e-files have been generated in the E-Office. As we move towards a paperless future, this will be advantageous for us. I trust that my cabinet colleagues will also find this a valuable learning experience, as there is no limit to learning," Saha concluded. Furthermore, Saha felicitated the departments that have achieved 100 percent e-Office integration at the Secretariat. During the program, Cabinet Ministers, Chief Secretary JK Sinha, Secretary PK Chakraborty, Director General of Police Amitabh Ranjan, and other concerned officials were present. Also Read Comfort and security: what does it take to set up a smart home Govt to set up task force for land governance in North-Eastern states BJP-IPFT alliance will rule Tripura for next 40-50 years: CM Manik Saha Acer launches Google TV-based smart TVs, including OLEDs and QLEDs: Details Nadda to address BJP's mega rally in Tripura to mark 9-years of Modi-govt Uttarakhand govt signs MoU worth Rs 3800 cr with Kayan Jet in London India, Canada row didn't come up in Jaishankar's meeting with Blinken: US India has always backed perspectives of developing nations: RS Dy Chairman IAEA conference: India spells out plans to use N-power to achieve Net Zero PM's secy reviews G20 outcome follow-up, asks to prepare for virtual summit Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday slammed the BJP government in Madhya Pradesh for the injustice meted out to women and termed the Ujjain incident involving the rape of a 12-year-old girl beyond imagination. The girl, who was raped and found bleeding on a street in MP's Ujjain city, was on Wednesday operated upon by a team of specialist doctors and her condition is critical but stable, an official has said. The assault on the minor has sparked massive public outrage. Despite BJP being in power (in MP) for nearly 20 years and at the Centre for 10 years, Madhya Pradesh has the highest number of cases of injustice and atrocities against women in the country. This is not the figure of the Samajwadi Party, but that of NCRB (National Crime Records Bureau), said Yadav. The former UP chief minister arrived here on Wednesday to take part in a rally at Sirmaur in Rewa district in favour of his party candidate Laxman Tiwari. Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh are expected to be held in a few months. Can anybody imagine that in a state where 1.2 crore women are associated with the Ladli (Behna) scheme, there is an incident with a 12-year-old girl (referring to the Ujjain rape incident)such a situation is prevailing, Yadav told reporters in Khajuraho. The MP government has formed a special investigation team (SIT) to probe into the Ujjain incident and a suspect has been detained, state home minister Narottam Mishra said on Wednesday. There is an atmosphere of insecurity among the women in the state despite the BJP being in power for 20 years in MP and for 10 years at the Centre, Yadav said. Referring to the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam' (women's reservation bill), which makes a provision for 33 per cent reservation to women in Parliament and assemblies, Yadav said nobody knows when it will be implemented. But if the BJP is serious about it, the party should field 33 per cent women workers in the upcoming Vidhan Sabha (assembly) polls, he said. The lists declared so far by the BJP do not reflect that provision, said the SP president. Also Read AAP releases first list of candidates for Madhya Pradesh assembly elections Elections 2023: What is BJP's women outreach plan in poll-bound states? MP elections 2023: Congress to take out Jan Aakrosh Yatra from Sept 15 MP polls: Jolt to BJP in Madhya Pradesh as MLA Virendra Raghuwanshi resigns Madhya Pradesh election 2023: Shivraj Singh Chouhan to expand cabinet today Chhattisgarh polls: Congress enlists social media influencers for campaign Telangana Assembly elections: PM Modi, top BJP leaders to begin campaiging BJP workers stage protest, demand fair trial into Kanpur road rage case TN BJP core committee to discuss AIADMK ties break up: Senior leader Congress leader Deepak Singh booked for remarks against Smriti Irani Yadav said his party will consider fielding women in 20 per cent seats in these elections. About a question on the opposition grouping INDIA', Yadav said the SP is a part of it but will contest in the states where it is strong and in a position to stop the BJP from marching ahead. He said that his party's strategy is to work for the welfare of the PDA, or Pichde (backward class), Dalit and Alpsankhyak (minorities), and added that if the party continues to work on this strategy, then it will witness a big change in Madhya Pradesh. Yadav also said that his party's candidates have been winning in different parts of the state for a long time and have a strong presence in Madhya Pradesh. The self-declared Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh will cease to exist from January after its president, Samvel Shahramanyan, signed a decree dissolving state institutions following its defeat by Azerbaijan. The Azerbaijani victory last week led to a massive exodus of ethnic Armenians residing in Nagorno-Karabakh and marked the conclusion of decades of conflict. President Shahramanyan's decree mandates the dissolution of all institutions and organisations of the Republic of Artsakh which is not internationally recognised by the beginning of next year. "The Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh [Artsakh] ceases its existence," read the decree, which was shared on Facebook by the Artsakh government. Shahramanyan indicated that the decision was made "due to the current difficult military-political situation." Azerbaijan's campaign lasted 24 hours before both sides agreed to a Russia-brokered ceasefire, which led to the disbandment of Karabakh's armed forces. Nonetheless, the Azerbaijani presidency demanded that the Artsakh government also dissolve, stating that if this condition was not met, the offensive would continue "until the end." The decree calls on Azerbaijan to allow the "free, unconstrained, and unhindered passage of the population of Nagorno-Karabakh, including militants who have laid down their weapons, along with their property and means of transportation through the Lachin corridor." A sudden end Nagorno-Karabakh is situated within Azerbaijan's borders but has functioned autonomously for decades, complete with its own de facto government. Following Azerbaijan's rapid offensive, which resulted in at least 200 fatalities and hundreds more injured, Baku proclaimed that it had regained control of the province, effectively ending a century-long struggle. Azerbaijan has long made it clear to the local Armenian populace that they faced two choices: either stay and accept Azerbaijani citizenship or leave. The majority have abandoned their ancestral lands rather than submit to Baku's authority. Over half the population of Nagorno-Karabakh has fled to Armenia in the past week, after Azerbaijan lifted the blockade of the Lachin corridor the only road connecting the enclave to Armenia to facilitate departures. Also Read UEFA Super Cup final, Man City vs Sevilla live match starts at 12:30 AM IST Moosewala murder accused Sachin Bishnoi extradited to India from Azerbaijan ARS vs MNC Highlights: Arsenal win their 17th Community Shield Trophy City Union Bank surges 10% on re-appointment of N Kamakodi as MD & CEO Cabinet approves Rs 5,452 cr metro line from HUDA City Centre to Cyber City Nearby Brent crude contract spread hits 2023 high on tight supply ECB looks to leverage AI to better understand inflation after big misses Canada should share evidence of Nijjar's killing with India: Omar Oz lawmakers who visit Taiwan being utilized by separatists: Chinese envoy Exposure to air pollution linked to increased stroke risk within 5 days Around 60,000 individuals had crossed into Armenia by Thursday morning, many arriving in what was described as a "dire" condition, according to Samantha Power from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), who visited the border town of Kornidzor on Tuesday. Singapore's population is ageing at an unprecedented rate. While it has not solved the whole puzzle associated with that issue, it has taken concrete steps that might offer a blueprint for other countries. Singapore's early policy action and holistic approach towards population ageing are key lessons. Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in April that in 2020 one out of every six Singaporeans were aged above 65 a jump from one out of every ten in 2010. By 2030, it is projected that one in every four residents in Singapore will be over 65. According to estimates from the United Nations, Singapore is poised to transition from being an "aged country" one with at least 14 percent of the population aged 65 or older to a "super-aged country", with at least 21 percent 65 or older, from 2021 to 2028. The swift pace of ageing in Singapore can be attributed to two primary factors: a dramatic decline in the total fertility rate and a rapid increase in life expectancy. Despite being dubbed a "blue zone" where people are claimed to live longer, in a recent Netflix documentary, Singapore faces challenges in addressing its ageing population. Singapore experienced a steep decline in its fertility rate, from 5 children per couple to below the 2.1 replacement level in just 14 years. By contrast, Japan took roughly 30 years to reach this point, the United States 60 years and Australia a century. While Japan and the US saw fluctuations in their fertility rates, Singapore has consistently remained below 2.1 since 1977, despite implementing several child-friendly policies, otherwise known as pro-natalist policies. These include financial support initiatives like direct cash payments, housing subsidies and tax relief, and initiatives promoting work-family balance like childcare services and parental leave provisions. In 2022, Singapore reported its lowest-ever fertility rate at 1.04, one of the lowest in the world. But pro-natalist policies are known to help increase fertility rate and Singapore could boost that by providing more financial support for child rearing and extending paternity and maternity leave. It could also push for stronger support for parents in the workplace, such as encouraging flexible work arrangements. While Singapore's Parliament has just passed a bill enhancing some of these policies, notably doubling government-paid paternity leave to four weeks, some Members of Parliament suggested more improvements to childcare arrangements to promote a healthy work-family balance. Another challenge is finding skilled labour for quality care services. Hiring trained personnel from abroad offers a short-term fix, but long-term solutions require building local capacity and making "care" careers appealing. Singapore has started adopting technology-driven solutions to improve patient care and address its shortage of skilled labour. These initiatives include promoting the use of smartphone apps by older adults for managing their health and integrating robots into the healthcare process. Paying for pro-natalist policies and expanding care services is a significant challenge. Singapore raised the Goods and Service Tax from 7 percent to 8 percent in 2023 and plans another 1 percent rise in 2024 to cover the increased spending on an ageing population. Singapore's life expectancy at birth has surged, rising from 50.7 years in 1950 to 82.8 in 2021. This life expectancy increase has far-reaching implications for Singapore's care system. With age comes a higher likelihood of chronic diseases and difficulties living independently day-to-day. For example, data from the first wave of THE SIGNS Study a broad-based national study of older Singaporeans that was launched between 2016 and 2017 showed the proportion of people with two or more chronic diseases was 53.6 percent among those aged between 60 and 69, rising to 72.6 percent among those aged 80 and older. Those experiencing difficulties in performing basic daily activities like walking, bathing, dressing or using the toilet increased from 3.4 percent among those aged between 60 and 69 to 30.3 percent among those aged 80 and older. Singapore's declining fertility rate itself feeds into the care challenges, leading to smaller families with less capacity to help care for older adults. As Singapore's older adult population grows, so too will the demand for healthcare, social services and long-term care. An ageing population mandates adaptation of the care system from one that mostly addresses acute care needs to one that additionally focuses on preventative care, chronic disease management, long-term care and palliative care. Singapore has adopted a "whole-of-government" and "whole-of-society" approach to address the challenges of population ageing comprehensively. The nation recognised the need for coordinated planning and policymaking early, forming its first inter-ministerial committee for ageing-related issues in 1982, when only 5 percent of the population was aged 65 or older. In 2007, this holistic approach continued through the Ministerial Committee on Ageing, comprising multiple ministries, unions and community stakeholders. Singapore's latest ageing-related policies and initiatives are detailed in two Action Plans for Successful Ageing, released in 2015 and 2023. The 2023 action plan focuses on three key themes: care, contribution and connectedness. This plan emphasises preventative health, community-based "Active Ageing Centres", older adult learning, employment opportunities, intergenerational interactions and digital connectivity. Singapore's policymaking is deeply rooted in evidence-based approaches, using data from national surveys, evaluations of community-based programs, qualitative research and cost analyses. Both action plans were developed using a consultative process allowing for public input, including older adults and other key stakeholders. The government also supports the collection of data on older adults, such as through THE SIGNS Study, to help cater to their diverse needs. The Singaporean public's trust in government also drives the successful uptake of its programs and initiatives. That trust in the government is considered key to its successful management of COVID-19, with the coverage of COVID-19 vaccines happening faster and at higher levels in Singapore than in other high-income countries. Singapore's response to an ageing population could be a blueprint for a global challenge. It has shown it helps to start developing age-friendly societies early instead of waiting for the country to significantly age. Policymaking should emphasise inclusivity rather than top-down planning, having evidence-based fixes to address real-world needs and relying on regular, detailed data about older adults. It's also critical to build trust in all corners of society but especially among older adults and their caregivers and families in government and policies. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Following are the latest Corporate Social Responsibility news releases and story ideas available from Business Wire. These recaps, curated by Business Wire, provide reporters and bloggers around the globe instant access to the latest news releases, providing relevant and trending content to share with their audiences. Discover more news via Business Wires Hot Topic recaps or create a custom news feed specific to your needs here. This service is provided at no charge to members of the media and financial communities. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928595794/en/ PITTSBURGH -- PPGs COLORFUL COMMUNITIES program marks 500th project with makeover at Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh Issuer: PPG ATLANTA -- Yamaha Receives Chattahoochee Riverkeeper River Guardian Award Issuer: Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit HERZOGENAURACH, Germany -- PUMA Welcomes Indian Sustainable Fashion Advocate Aishwarya Sharma To Its Voices Of A RE:GENERATION Initiative Issuer: PUMA CHICAGO -- Guntner Sets Sustainability in Stone With Six Industry-Leading Pledges Issuer: Guntner CHICAGO -- RRD Expands Upon Past Environmental Performance with 10-Year Roadmap to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 25% Issuer: R.R. Donnelley & Sons Company SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- Built with Integration: Metrikus Announces Integration with ServiceNow to Enhance Workplace Efficiency, Sustainability and ROI of Global Real Estate Issuer: Metrikus PITTSBURGH -- NETL Collaborates with U. S. Steel to Capture Greenhouse Gas at Edgar Thomson Plant Issuer: United States Steel Corporation SEOUL, Republic of Korea -- BAT Outlines Five-Step Plan Towards Better Regulation of Vapour Sector Issuer: BAT PORTLAND, Ore. -- Columbia Sportswear Company Releases 2022 Impact Report Issuer: Columbia Sportswear Company KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- EPR Properties Publishes 2022 Corporate Responsibility Report Issuer: EPR Properties JASPER, Ind. -- MasterBrand Announces Participation in Habitat for Humanitys 37th Carter Work Project Issuer: MasterBrand, Inc. SINGAPORE -- Mobvista Marks World Cleanup Day with an Interactive Mobile Ad Campaign Championing Environmental Awareness Issuer: Mobvista OTTAWA, Ontario -- Early Adopter Manufacturers Select Assent's PFAS Solution to Solve Urgent Need for Proactive Supply Chain Engagement Issuer: Assent Inc. NEW YORK -- NatureAlpha Launches New TNFD Core Metrics Module and Biodiversity Value at Risk Empowering Investors in Navigating Biodiversity and Nature Issuer: NatureAlpha NEW YORK -- Colgate-Palmolive Continues to Accelerate Action Towards Goal of Net Zero Carbon Emissions Issuer: Colgate-Palmolive Company LONDON -- Arup and Re:Co join forces to deliver sustainable digital services for investors Issuer: Re:Co CINCINNATI -- Forbes names Cintas among Americas Best-in-State Employers Issuer: Cintas Corporation PITTSBURGH -- AEO Inc. Expands ESG Goals and Highlights More Than Two Decades of Progress in Second Building a Better World Report Issuer: American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Hexions Versatics Business Achieves EcoVadis Gold Medal for Sustainability Performance Issuer: Hexion CAMBRIDGE, United Kingdom -- AstraZeneca advances UK clean heat and energy efficiencies with 100m commitment Issuer: AstraZeneca RIDGELAND, Miss. -- Molpus Woodlands Group Expands Scholarship Program Issuer: Molpus Woodlands Group, LLC WEST DES MOINES, Iowa -- Sammons Financial Group Employees Deliver $175,000 to Area Charities Issuer: Sammons Financial Group SAN FRANCISCO -- Sustainability Management Platform Pulsora Raises $20 Million for Global Expansion Issuer: Pulsora NORTHBROOK, Ill. -- Allstate and AFCA Reveal the 2023 Good Works Team Issuer: The Allstate Corporation MISSOULA, Mont. & SEATTLE -- Media Advisory: Impact Studio 2023 Gathers Industry Leaders to Discuss Future of Corporate Social Responsibility Issuer: Submittable SILVER SPRING, Md. & RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. -- United Therapeutics Issues its 2023 Corporate Responsibility and Public Benefit Report Issuer: United Therapeutics Corporation NEW YORK -- Pure Earth: First-of-its-Kind Lead Contamination Study Shows High Levels of Lead in Consumer Goods and Foods Produced in Low- and Middle-Income Countries and Available Globally Including in the U.S. Issuer: Pure Earth CLEVELAND -- Applied Industrial Technologies Releases 2023 Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) Report Issuer: Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc. OAK BROOK, Ill. -- Cintas Chicago First Aid & Safety Locations Certified as VPP Star Sites Issuer: Cintas Corporation DULUTH, Ga. -- AGCO Agriculture Foundation Launches Call for Applications for Grant Issuer: AGCO Agriculture Foundation PITTSBURGH -- Alcoa Foundation Announces New President Issuer: Alcoa Foundation NEW YORK -- Kyndryl Releases First Corporate Citizenship Report Issuer: Kyndryl CINCINNATI -- Cintas Corporation rises on 2023 Forbes Global 2000 list Issuer: Cintas Corporation SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- Oklo Appoints R Craig Bealmear as Chief Financial Officer Issuer: Oklo Inc. SOLDOTNA, Alaska -- Yamaha-Sponsored Kenai Classic Roundtable Sparks Discussion of Offshore Wind Effects on Fishery Management Issuer: Yamaha Rightwaters RALEIGH, N.C. -- Vontier Releases 2023 Sustainability Report Issuer: Vontier Corporation ZURICH -- RepRisk Data Empowers APG Asset Managements First-of-Its-Kind Sustainable Real Estate Index Series Issuer: RepRisk NEW YORK -- Church Pension Group to Host Virtual Conversation on Global Faith-Based Investors and the Climate Crisis Issuer: The Church Pension Group PORTLAND, Ore. -- The Standards 2023 Volunteer Expo Returns In Person to Pioneer Courthouse Square Issuer: The Standard MELVILLE, N.Y. -- Henry Schein Hosts 26th Annual Back to School Program, Helping Students Worldwide Start The School Year Successfully Issuer: Henry Schein, Inc. LONDON -- GingerMay Proudly Joins the B Corp Movement to Do Business, Better Issuer: GingerMay GENEVA -- IFRC Launches Groundbreaking Financial Mechanism to Transform Disaster Response Issuer: International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies DULUTH, Ga. -- Asbury Automotive Group Named to Newsweeks Americas Greatest Workplaces 2023 Issuer: Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. CINCINNATI -- Cintas Named to Newsweeks Americas Greatest Workplaces 2023 Issuer: Cintas Corporation DENVER, Colorado -- Liberty Latin America Publishes 2022 ESG Report Issuer: Liberty Latin America Ltd. DALLAS -- o9 Solutions Issues Its ESG Impact Report, Showcasing Initiatives Taken in 2022 and Its Future Goals Issuer: o9 Solutions, Inc. MACON, Ga. -- Blue Bird Donates Electric School Bus to Jerome Bettis Bus Stops Here Foundation Issuer: Blue Bird Corporation LONDON -- Algbra Becomes UKs First FCA Authorised ESG and Sharia-Compliant Fintech to Gain B Corp Status Issuer: Algbra OAKLAND, Calif. -- Legal Opinion Letter Released by Business Climate Finance Affirms Companies' Ability to Consider ESG Factors in Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plan Selection Process Issuer: Impact Experience About Business Wire Business Wire, a Berkshire Hathaway company, is the global leader in news release distribution and regulatory disclosure. Public relations, investor relations, public policy, and marketing professionals rely on Business Wire for secure and accurate distribution of market-moving news and multimedia. Founded in 1961, Business Wire is a trusted source for news organizations, journalists, investment professionals, and regulatory authorities, delivering news directly into editorial systems and leading online news sources via its multi-patented NX Network. Business Wires global newsrooms are available to meet the needs of communications professionals and news media worldwide. For more information about Business Wire, please email us at [email protected] or call 888.381.9473. Subscribe to our blog for communications industry trends and tactics delivered straight to your inbox, and follow Business Wire on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928595794/en/ Sharing her views on the launch, Ms. Neera Nundy, Co-Founder and Partner at Dasra , said, To drive transformative change in the philanthropic sector, one must delve into the inspiring journeys that fuel giving. 'The Philanthropist' strives to amplify these narratives, offering a playbook of insights to inspire a whole generation of philanthropic families to learn from and share each other's invaluable experiences and perspectives." Highlighting the need for the magazine, Jyotirmoy Chatterji, Head of GivingPi said, In India, knowledge about family giving is extremely limited, especially regarding approaches, vehicles for giving, and relatable role models. This magazine aspires to become a guiding compass for family philanthropy in India that is rooted in mutual learning and sharing." GivingPi, India's first and exclusive family philanthropy network, is pleased to announce the launch of a unique digital magazine, The Philanthropist. This publication represents a significant leap forward in the realm of philanthropic storytelling in India, offering an exclusive platform to showcase inspiring giving journeys of families while sharing their lived experiences and perspectives.The Philanthropist aims to catalyze learning while celebrating the extraordinary impact created by families dedicated to creating a new and inclusive India. The magazine aspires to create a powerful narrative around family philanthropy and spark a dialogue on the crucial role of family giving in driving positive social change in India. The magazine hopes to serve as a resource for both established philanthropic families and those embarking on their giving journey.The Founders Circle Members of GivingPi, including Nikhil Kamath, Nisaba Godrej, Rajan Navani, Rohini Nilekani, Sunny Gurpreet Singh, and Tara Singh Vachani, along with The Chandler Foundation have extended their support to this initiative.The inaugural edition of The Philanthropist showcases journeys of philanthropic families like Abhishek Poddar, Donald Lobo, Leena Dandekar, Prashanth Prakash, Rahul Mehta, Raj Mariwala, Rekha and Rizwan Koita, Ronnie and Zarina Screwvala, Usha and Radhakrishnan Sundar, Sunny Gurpreet Singh, SVP India, amongst others.For more information about The Philanthropist, please visit www.thephilanthropist.org Narayan Seva Sansthan News Summary Narayan Seva Sansthan, based in Udaipur, Rajasthan, which has been providing free services in the field of disability, has transformed the lives of nearly a thousand differently-abled individuals in Kenya. Google has officially opened the first phase of the Bolands Mills development which is planned to become a hub of engineering with over 1,000 engineers moving into the offices upon its completion. The opening marks the 20th anniversary of Googles arrival in Ireland, after it opened its first office in Ireland with just five employees in 2003. In the past twenty years, Google Ireland has grown to become Googles EMEA headquarters with a workforce of over 9,000 people. AI Scholarship Fund The tech giant also launched a new 1.5 million Google.org scholarship fund for students from under-represented communities in the area of AI. With grant support from Google.orgs fund, the Insight SFI Research Centre for Data Analytics at Dublin City University will enable scholarships for students at universities around Ireland. 'Next Generation' "We are immensely proud of the strength of our team here and the work they are doing in driving Googles future," said Lorraine Twohill, CMO of Google. "We want to ensure that everyone across Ireland is able to benefit from the next generation of AI technology which is why we are announcing a new 1.5M Google.org scholarship fund. Launch Event An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar joined Head of Google Ireland, Adaire Fox-Martin and Googles Global Chief Marketing Officer, Lorraine Twohill on Thursday to officially open the first phase of the Bolands Mills development. The historic Flour Mills building at Bolands Mills has been expertly restored and adapted into a dedicated collaboration space for Google, with the ground floor opening to the public in 2024. The building features a range of new designs and technologies so that people can mix and match their workspace to their needs and more closely collaborate with colleagues anywhere in the world. 'Digital Leader' The opening of this historic building is good for Dublin's civic heritage and represents a major milestone for Google Ireland driven from their innovative new centre of engineering," said Taoiseach Leo Varadkar. "This new centre of excellence, alongside the scholarship fund announced today, will help cement Irelands role as a digital leader at the heart of European and global digital developments. Source: www.businessworld.ie Hero: Mahatma Gandhi "If I'm to die by the bullet of a madman, I must do so smiling," Mahatma Gandhi said two days before his death. God has to be in my heart and on my tongue. And if anything bad happens, you are not to cry." Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, already revered as Mahatma for his spiritual lifestyle and ideas, returned to India in 1915 after spending 21 years in South Africa. Gandhi had practised law and, more crucially, gained an international reputation as a major proponent of Indian self-rule during his years overseas. Back home, Gandhi's celebrity quickly elevated him to the forefront of the Indian independence cause. Gandhi was elected president of the Indian National Congress in 1920, advocating moderate, peaceful resistance to British authority. He led the Congress in declaring independence on January 26, 1930. Despite its rejection of the proclamation, Britain handed the congress greater power. When Victor Hope, 2nd Marquess of Linlithgow, the governor general and viceroy of India, declared war on Germany without consulting the Congress, the congress broke with the British Raj (government by the Crown). Gandhi was imprisoned in 1942 as his demands for the British to leave India completely grew. Two years later, despite his poor health as a result of fasting, the British freed him because they thought his death in prison would start a general rebellion. Gandhi tried but failed to persuade the Muslim League to campaign for undivided independence rather than religious division of India, claiming that the partition matter might be decided in plebiscites in affected regions after independence. Meanwhile, Gandhi's moderate attitude enraged hardline Hindus, who plotted his assassination. In July 1944, Nathuram Godse, a gang leader, attempted to kill Gandhi with a dagger for the first time. Godse was disarmed by bystanders and released at Gandhi's request. Godse was again thwarted in September 1944, as he approached Gandhi in Bombay. Gandhi was 78 years old on January 30, 1948, and had been seriously debilitated by his protest fasting. His great niece and adoptive daughter walked with him as he made his way to the location where he held regular evening multifaith prayer services. A hefty man in a khaki bush jacket and blue trousers forced his way through the crowd. Nathuram Godse pulled a pistol and shot Gandhi three times at point-blank range while claiming to want to touch Gandhi's feet. "The light has gone out of our lives," Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru declared over All-India Radio. "The Father of the Nation is no more." Villain: Nathuram Godse On January 28, 1948, Hindu radical Nathuram Godse and accomplice Narayan Apte obtained a 9-millimetre Beretta semi-automatic pistol. Godse had previously been disarmed in two separate attempts to kill Mahatma Gandhi with a dagger. He was certain that the pistol would assure his triumph. Godse approached Gandhi two days later and fatally shot him. Making no attempt to flee or kill himself, the 37-year-old narrowly avoided being beaten to death by the crowd before being apprehended by police. Ramachandra Viayak Godse was born to a Brahmin family (the highest Hindu caste), and his parents reared him as a female at first since three previous sons had all died in infancy, and they wanted to break a believed curse. They pierced his nose in the Hindu feminine style, earning him the nickname "Nath" and the name Nathuram. When Godse was 19, his father relocated to Ratnagiri, where Hindu activist Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was serving a 50-year term for aiding an armed insurgency. With the freedom to traverse the streets, Savarkar proceeded to stir violent rebellion to British rule. Godse was introduced to Hindutva, or the belief in a Hindu-dominated nation, by Savarkar. While technically promoting religious freedom, Hindutva advocates for Muslim, Christian, and other non-Indian religions to be subordinate to Hinduism. Godse claimed the Muslim League had suborned the Indian National Congress by the time Gandhi became president. Gandhi's demands for nonviolent resistance to British authority were also seen as impractical and futile. Godse and Apte launched a newspaper in 1944 to promote Hindu nationalism. When India gained independence in 1947, it partitioned its western territory into Muslim Pakistan. This enraged Godse, and his rage was directed at Gandhi. "An individual is never greater than a nation," stated Godse. "But Gandhi has started considering himself greater than the nation." As a result, Godse became a member of a conspiracy, possibly led by Savarkar, that intended to assassinate Gandhi on January 13. Godse had a chance to strike seventeen days later. "My confidence about the moral side of my action has not been shaken even by criticism levelled against it on all sides," Godse wrote thereafter. "I have no doubt that honest writers of history will weigh my act and find the true value thereof some day in the future." On February 10, 1949, Savarkar was acquitted at trial, but Godse and Apte were sentenced to death. Five additional conspirators were sentenced to life in prison. The two men were hanged on November 15, 1949. While being carried to the gallows, Godse repeatedly yelled, "Akhand Bharat," which translates to "Undivided India." On Thursday (September 21), the Rajya Sabha unanimously passed the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023, which seeks to offer 33% reservation to women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies. Because the Bill is a constitutional amendment, it must be adopted by half of the state legislatures before it can be sent to the president for her signature. In the Rajya Sabha debate, which lasted over ten and a half hours and featured remarks from 72 members, the Bill was passed with 215 members voting in favor and none opposed. Even though the Act was passed, the Union administration did not specify a particular date for when it would be implemented, despite opposition members raising concerns about the delimitation and census clauses attached to it. The Lok Sabha had enacted the legislation, which has been in the works for 27 years, with a two-thirds majority. Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to the Upper House before the Bill was put to a vote to thank all members for their support. "In both houses, nearly 132 speakers have spoken." I'd like to thank everyone who voted in favor of the Bill. "This spirit that has been born will instill a new spirit of self-confidence in the consciousness of the country," he stated. "All MPs, and political parties have played an important role...and this itself will be a guarantee of our bright future." The Bill specifies that one-third of seats in the National Capital Territory of Delhi's legislative assembly shall be reserved for women by amending Article 239AA, one-third of seats in the Lok Sabha by amending Article 330, and one-third of seats in state legislative assemblies by amending Article 332. The following are the Bill's main features Reservation for women: The Bill reserves, "as nearly as may be," one-third of all seats in the Lok Sabha, state legislative assemblies, and the Legislative Assembly of the National Capital Territory of Delhi for women. This includes seats reserved for SCs and STs in the Lok Sabha and state legislatures. Commencement of reservation: The reservation will be effective after the census conducted after the commencement of the Bill has been published. Delimitation will be done based on the census to reserve seats for women. The reservation will be available for 15 years. It will, however, continue until a date designated by a bill passed by Parliament. Rotation of seats: Seats reserved for women will be rotated after each delimitation, as determined by a law made by Parliament. Steps that must be performed before the Bill can be enacted According to the Bill, the census and delimitation exercises must take place before the reservation may be enforced. In his statement to the Lok Sabha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the reservation will not be enforced in the next 2024 elections. According to him, the next government will conduct the census and delimitation exercise following the Lok Sabha elections in order to start the process of making reservations for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. While proposing the Bill in Lok Sabha, Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal stated, "This constitutional amendment is both horizontal and vertical." There is also a reservation for SC and ST women because a census and delimitation are required." He went on to say that following the delimitation exercise, the Delimitation Commission will select which seats will go to women. What exactly is a Delimitation Exercise? Under current legislation, the Delimitation Commission is led by a former Supreme Court Justice and is in charge of analyzing Census data. The Commission is anticipated to demarcate new Lok Sabha constituencies using Census data. According to Census data, constituencies are reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. When Parliament passes a Delimitation Act, the Centre appoints a Delimitation Commission, which is chaired by a former Supreme Court judge. The orders of this powerful council are legally binding and cannot be challenged in a court of law. Even Parliament cannot propose changes to an order issued by the commission, which includes the Chief Election Commissioner and either of the two Election Commissioners. If the exercise is particular to a state, the state's election commissioner is also a member of the panel. Because the commission is a temporary entity with no permanent personnel, the lengthy exercise requires the cooperation of EC officials. Census data is collected for each district, tehsil, and gram panchayat, and new boundaries are drawn. The commission investigates population data, existing constituencies, and the number of seats, holds consultations with all stakeholders, and makes recommendations to the government. The draft report of the commission is published in the Gazette of India in order to solicit public feedback. The feedback is analyzed, and any necessary modifications are made before the final report is published. No adjustments can be made once the final report is released. The commission's recommendation takes effect on a date set by the President. Copies of its orders are laid before the Lok Sabha and the respective legislative assemblies, but no changes are permitted. Bill passed; no deadline given Despite universal support for the legislation, the Union government has failed to offer any timeline for its implementation. The Bill provides that the "provisions relating to the reservation of seats for women...shall come into effect after an exercise of delimitation is undertaken for this purpose after the relevant figures for the first census taken after [the Bill is passed] have been published." In response to the opposition's worries, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that the Bill is not a "election jumla". "This is not a jumla." Delimitation is not an exercise to further this exercise. "Once we pass this (Bill) and the census, the ball is in motion for a delimitation commission to be established," she said. Sitharaman stated that the administration is "carrying a legacy" by freezing the delimitation exercise till 2026. "What makes 2026 special to us?" We inherit a legacy in which delimitation dates were frozen not once, but twice, for extended periods of time. With these constraints, it will be impossible to implement it presently. "We will implement this (Bill) once the census is completed and the delimitation is completed," she added. Earlier on Wednesday, in his Lok Sabha speech, home minister Amit Shah indicated that the Act will not go into effect until 2029. Union Minister for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal reiterated the government's position in his response while presenting the bill to vote, saying, "..Do not worry (about implementation)....Modi hai toh mumkin hai (Anything is possible with Modi)." In response to queries from the opposition concerning the delay in enacting laws during the Modi government's 9.5-year tenure, Sitharaman stated that there was a need to "build consensus." "It is important that we build consensus and also show that we are committed to the economic and social empowerment of women," she stated. Sitharaman also stated that the government has worked to empower women socially and economically during the last nine years, citing government programs such as the Ujjwala Yojana, the Mudra credit programme, and the inclusion of women in combat roles in the armed services. In what comes as a bit of a shock, Mazda has announced that will cease production of the CX-8 in its home market of Japan by December 2023. ... The Jimmy Carter Library & Museum and The Carter Center are co-hosting Jimmy Carters 99th Birthday Celebration this weekend. On Oct. 1, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter turns 99. WHERE The Carter Presidential Center, 453 John Lewis Freedom Parkway NE, Atlanta, GA AGENDA Friday, Sept. 29 Sunday, Oct. 1, 9 a.m. 7 p.m. See our digital birthday mosaic on a large, outdoor video screen filled with more than 11,500 birthday messages for President Carter. Messages are being collected via the CarterCenter.org website from well-wishers all over the world. See the online mosaic. Visitors can upload their birthday tributes in person via a QR code and watch video and photo tributes from others, including musicians, actors, artists, authors, and political leaders. Saturday, Sept. 30, 12 noon 4 p.m. 99-cent admission to the Museum in honor of Carters 99th birthday Birthday cake and family-friendly games and crafts Museum Lobby and outside Screening of All the President's Men at 1 p.m. Museum Theater Trivia at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Museum Lobby Food trucks on-site in the Library parking area Continued display of our interactive birthday mosaic (9 a.m. 7 p.m.) Sunday, Oct. 1, 10 a.m. Naturalization service to welcome 99 new U.S. citizens in honor of President Carters 99th birthday. Continued display of our interactive birthday mosaic (9 a.m. 7 p.m.) SOCIAL MEDIA When sharing tributes on social media, please use #JimmyCarter99. Note: If U.S. Government shutdown is avoided, activities at the Jimmy Carter Library & Museum will continue on Sunday, including 99-cent admission. To Request Interviews: Tony.Clark@nara.gov; Rennie.Sloan@cartercenter.org Photo: Pixabay First off, some happy news. It sounds like insurance companies are back to offering home insurance policies in our area. This is still on a case-by-case basis and, of course, depends on the location of your home. If you are one of the people whose home purchases were put on hold over the last few weeks, Id suggest connecting with your insurance broker today to see if they are now able to offer you a policy. I connected with the company I refer my clients to and it said Monday it has several policies in place in Kelowna. Ive touched on mortgage insurance before, but after a few conversations over the last two weeks, I feel it is worth revisiting. When you are working on your mortgage, there are two types of insurance your mortgage professional will talk about (three if you include the home insurance policy you will need at closing). The first is mortgage default insurance, which is often referred to as CMHC insurance. There are actually three organizations in Canada that provide this insuranceCMHC, Genworth, and Canada Guaranty. Mortgage default insurance protects the lender in the event that the borrower defaults on their mortgage payments. That insurance is mandatory if you put down less than 20% when you buy your home. It is a one-time premium which is added to your mortgage up front. It is calculated on a sliding scale, so the more of a down payment you have the lower your premium will be. This premium can be ported from one property to another, subject to certain criteria, which can save you thousands of dollars. The premium protects the lender, so if your home goes into foreclosure, it does not have to absorb any loss. The second insurance that will be discussed with your mortgage professional is mortgage protection insurance. That is commonly life and disability insurance that protects you as the borrower. Banks and brokerages offer different coverages, so it is important to understand a few key differences. This optional insurance is generally paid monthly, and in most cases can be cancelled at any time. In my early days, I didnt spend much time discussing the insurance coverage we offer. At the time, we had a different product that (in my opinion) was very expensive and didnt offer great coverage. Over the years, Ive heard many stories about how clients lives have been impacted by either having, or not having, insurance coverage in place. Within two months of each other, two of my clients had very close calls. At the same time, our firm changed the insurance product we offered. The (new) product is far more reasonably priced, is portable and flexible to meet client needs. As a broker I must offer my clients optional life and disability insurance coverage. The product our firm offers is Manulife Protection Plan (MPP). Clients have the option of waiving all together or taking life and/or disability coverage. Most lenders offer coverage a second time when clients either sign documents in the branch or at the lawyers office at the time of closing. A key difference between what we offer up front and what is offered by the lender is the portability option. MPP can be ported from one lender to another in the event you choose to switch lenders down the road. It can also be ported from one home to the next when you sell. Most lender products only cover this particular home and their own mortgage. If you switch or sell down the road, you will need to re-qualify based on your age at the time, which means your premiums will likely go up. I am a firm believer in having insurance in place to protect yourself and your family in case something unfortunate happens. I am not a licensed insurance professional, so when I discuss insurance with my clients I always ask if they have coverage in place. Part of our discussion includes my recommendation to discuss coverage with a life insurance professional as there may be products out there that are a better fit for their particular situation. MPP insurance is free for the first sixty days, so if I have clients who plan to look into more detailed options, I suggest they opt in and cancel down the road after theyve made the time to meet with an insurance professional. This product kicks in the from the time the application is submitted and is fully underwritten up front. Some people have strong opinions one way or the other about the value of insurance. Based on my experience I feel strongly that it is important to review your options with a professional to ensure you are adequately protected. This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet. Photo: Contributed Kelowna-Mission MLA Renee Merrifield Few in B.C. will argue that we need a plan to reduce our impact on our environment. The governments CleanBC Roadmap to 2030 outlines the province's trajectory for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to 40% below 2007 levels by 2030. However, the governments communication seems to be selectively transparent. While it proudly emphasizes the estimated GHG reductions and mentions generating approximately 18,000 direct and indirect jobs with a GDP increase of 19%, it meticulously avoids discussing the net economic cost, particularly job losses and GDP reduction stemming from a surging carbon tax and other climate policies. This past month, a report on the economic cost of following CleanBC was largely ignored by the media or thought of as too extreme. Over the past two weeks, other reports from two of Canadas large five banks have been released, echoing the same sentiment following the CleanBC plan will end up costing British Columbians. Why is this important? The government has glossed over significant economic repercussions forecasted in its own modelling, focusing instead on the projected achievements in GHG reductions. A closer look at the CleanBC document reveals an alarming absence of comprehensive discussion on the broader economic implications. The report briefly mentions increased fossil fuel costs and measures to mitigate impacts but refrains from any further exploration of the policys economic consequences, leaving the readers with an incomplete and arguably deceptive representation of the modelling results. According to the governments own analysis, the implementation of CleanBC policies will curtail B.C.s economic growth to historically low levels, resulting in a $28 billion smaller economy in 2030, thereby dialing back our provinces prosperity by over a decade. Digging into the available modelling results posted on the Ministry of Environments website unveils a sobering reality. The CleanBC scenario projects a substantial slowdown in economic growth, especially from 2025-30, when numerous emission reduction measures come into full effect. This reduction paints a grim picture, setting the stage for the weakest economic growth in B.C.'s history. This all sounds terrible but how does this reduced economic activity affect you? With CleanBC policies in play, British Columbians faces a future of limited job opportunities and a significant decline in overall prosperity. In addition, government revenue from an active economy will be significantly restrained. That means spending on the services we all depend on, like health care, infrastructure, and social safety nets, are all at risk. Sadly, the government has yet to openly acknowledge or discuss these consequences to their policy, As the Shadow Minister for Environment and Climate Change Strategy, I advocate for transparency, accountability, and a balanced approach to climate policy. Dollars spent by this government must be associated with a tangible reduction in emissions, or they should not be spent under the auspices of green. While addressing emissions is crucial, it is equally vital to evaluate and communicate the economic trade-offs comprehensively. The governments reluctance to openly discuss the economic repercussions of CleanBC underscores a concerning lack of straightforwardness and warrants a reevaluation of the policys overall impact on the livelihoods of British Columbians. B.C. cant afford a misspend of its tax dollars and British Columbians deserve a transparent and honest account of the economic ramifications associated with the CleanBC policy agenda. Is there a better way? There must be. Looking at Norway, it has managed to ensure great prosperity for its citizens, while boasting the lowest emissions in the world. Surely there are programs and best practices that would show us the path to both. Balancing environmental stewardship with economic prosperity is a complex task, and it necessitates an honest and open dialogue. The government must reconsider its approach, acknowledge the projected economic setbacks, and work collaboratively to establish a climate strategy that safeguards both our environment and the prosperity of British Columbia. My question to you is this: How much can you afford to spend or sacrifice on cleaner emissions? I love hearing from you and read every email. Please email me at Re[email protected] or call the office at 250-712-3620. Renee Merrifield is the BC United MLA for Kelowna-Mission. This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet. Re. Ghost hotels hurt renters (Castanet, Sept. 25) (The article contains) interesting statistics regarding the impact of short-term rentals on the overall rental market. I was ignorant to this apparent fact. However, the thrust of the article is to suggest that again, municipalities and cities crack down even harder on property owners who choose to use their property in ways that best serve them. That seems heavy handed. All of the work that goes into finding statistics to support their contentions do nothing to address what may be the bigger problemthe (provincial) Rental Tenancy Act, as it exists today. Over the past decade or so, maybe longer, the pendulum has swung from pro-landlord to very pro-renter and that has resulted in, to some degree, fewer and fewer properties being put up for rent. At one time, you could have stated with reasonable conviction the incidents of tenants who damage property or who simply stop paying rent, were few. I don't think that's the case anymore. If you were to ask a sampling of property owners who have offered up their secondary homes for rent and what their experience was, I suggest you might hear some very similar stories about problem tenants. The Residential Tenancy Branch is no comfort. This agency was created as an arbiter to protect both parties in a rental agreement. That is not how it works. Having personally been put in the position where I had to look to it for relief, I can tell you that it simply doesn't work. I was immersed in the process for months with no rental income. In fact, my tenants left my home (thankfully) on their own at 1 a.m., leaving behind a mess and furniture that even they thought was beneath them. But I had my house back. There is seemingly no concern for property owners, (who are looked at as pariahs because they have a rental property), when tenants abuse the home or stop paying rent because of "hard times" or (other reasons). If the RTB was able to do what it is mandated to do and deliver resolution in a timely and expeditious manner, I believe more people would be inclined to put their properties back into the rental pool. It is unreasonable to use staffing issues as an excuse for lag times of months upon months. Maybe the provincial or federal governments should implement a relief fund for landlords while their cases wait to be heard once their turn comes up in the endless queue. It was for the above reasons, including the lack of assistance from the RTB and the pain caused by my tenants, that I chose to sell. That was not my plan but I didn't feel as though there were any other options. So, maybe if the problems with the RTB were addressed and corrected and the power balance between tenants and landlords balanced out, you would see more homes hit the rental market. To spend time trying to figure out how to clamp down on people who simply wish to use their investment (through services such as) ABNB or VRBO because of the risks associated with long-term rentals and the lack of a working process, is counterproductive and looks to punish or repress people because of it. The problem is glaring. So fix it. Peter Haslock, West Kelowna Photo: The Associated Press President Joe Biden grabbed a bullhorn on the picket line Tuesday and urged striking auto workers to stick with it in an unparalleled show of support for organized labor by a modern president. Donning a union ballcap and exchanging fist bumps, Biden told United Auto Workers strikers that you deserve the significant raise you need as he stopped in the Detroit area just a day ahead of a planned visit by former President Donald Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican nomination in next year's election. No deal, no wheels! workers chanted as Biden arrived at a General Motors parts distribution warehouse, one of several facilities that has been targeted in a widening strike now in its 12th day. No pay, no parts! Despite concerns that a prolonged strike could undermine the economy, particularly in the crucial battleground state of Michigan, the Democratic president encouraged workers to keep fighting for better wages at a time when car companies have seen rising profits. Asked if UAW members deserved a 40% raise, one of their demands over the course of negotiations, Biden said: Yes. I think they should be able to bargain for that. Hes repeatedly argued that auto companies have not gone far enough to meet union demands, especially after making concessions in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis. The fact of the matter is that you guys, the UAW, you saved the automobile industry back in 2008 ... you made a lot of sacrifices. You gave up a lot. And the companies were in trouble. Now theyre doing incredibly well and guess what? You should be doing incredibly well. The White House said Biden was the first modern president to visit a picket line, a sign of how far hes willing to go to cultivate union support as he runs for reelection. Lawmakers often appear at strikes to show solidarity with unions, and Biden joined picket lines with casino workers in Las Vegas and auto workers in Kansas City while seeking the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination. But sitting presidents, who have to balance the rights of workers with disruptions to the economy, supply chains and other facets of everyday life, have stayed out of the strike fray until Biden. Unimpressed, Trump called Bidens visit nothing more than a PR stunt from Crooked Joe Biden to distract and gaslight the American people from his disastrous Bidenomics policies that have led to so much economic misery across the country. The president spent less than half an hour at the Willow Run parts distribution warehouse, where he was joined by UAW President Shawn Fain, who rode with Biden in the presidential limousine to the picket line. Thank you, Mr. President, for coming to stand up with us in our generation-defining moment," said Fain, who described the union as engaged in a kind of war against corporate greed. We do the heavy lifting. We do the real work," Fain said. "Not the CEOs. Labor historians said they could not recall an instance when a sitting president had joined an ongoing strike, even during the tenures of ardent pro-union presidents such as Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Harry Truman. Theodore Roosevelt invited labor leaders alongside mine operators to the White House amid a historic coal strike in 1902, a decision that was seen at the time as a rare embrace of unions as Roosevelt tried to resolve the dispute. Biden's visit to the picket line was the most significant demonstration of his pro-union bona fides, a record that includes vocal support for unionization efforts at Amazon.com facilities and executive actions that promoted worker organizing. He also earned a joint endorsement of major unions earlier this year and has avoided southern California for high-dollar fundraisers amid the writers' and actors' strikes in Hollywood. The United Farm Workers announced their endorsement of Biden on Tuesday, calling him an authentic champion for workers and their families, regardless of their race or national origin. Bidens campaign manager, Julie Chavez Rodriguez, is the granddaughter of Cesar Chavez, the unions co-founder. The UAW has not endorsed Biden. Asked about that after landing in Michigan, Biden told reporters that Im not worried about that. Fain later said any endorsements would come later. Weve got to get good contracts first and well work out those things down the road, he said. At least one warehouse worker on the picket line was not swayed by the visit. Curtis Cranford, who has 38 years with GM, was happy that Biden visited, but said it wouldn't necessarily deter him from voting Republican in 2024. I think it means a lot. It should hopefully put some pressure on the company. The White House is behind us Cranford said. Still, he said he and many union members disagree with Democrats on securing the borders, abortion and other issues. And he said both Trump and Biden were too old for the job. Biden and other Democrats are aggressively touting the president's pro-labor credentials as Trump works to make inroads in critical swing states where unions remain influential, including Michigan and Pennsylvania. Biden is leaning on his union support at a time when labor enjoys broad support from the public, with 67% of Americans approving of labor unions in an August Gallup poll. The UAW strike, which expanded into 20 states last week, remains a dilemma for the Biden administration since a part of the workers' grievances include concerns about a broader transition to electric vehicles. The shift away from gas-powered vehicles has worried some autoworkers because electric versions require fewer people to manufacture and there is no guarantee that factories that produce them will be unionized. Adrian Mitchell, who works at the GM parts warehouse, said Biden would be better for the middle class than Trump. He supports the people in regards to coming out here, showing solidarity with the UAW workers, Mitchell said. Hes always been for the middle class. I cant speak about Trump." On electric vehicles, Mitchell said workers are concerned that the transition from internal combustion vehicles may cost them jobs. We havent really gotten to that point to see the job losses yet, he said. "So we cant look into the future to kind of see whats really going to happen. But were all a little worried about that right now. Trump is skipping the second Republican primary debate on Wednesday and will meet with striking autoworkers in Michigan, seeking to capitalize on discontent over the state of the economy and anger over the Biden administrations push for more electric vehicles a key component of its clean-energy agenda. White House officials dismissed any notion that Trump forced their hand and noted that Biden headed to Michigan at the request of Fain, who last week invited the sitting president to join the strikers. The Biden administration has no formal role in the negotiations, and the White House pulled back a decision from the president earlier this month to send two key deputies to Michigan after determining it would be more productive for the advisers, Gene Sperling and acting Labor Secretary Julie Su, to monitor talks from Washington. Fain said Tuesday that negotiations were moving slowly and theyll escalate the strike to more plants if they need to. Photo: The Canadian Press Iran claimed on Wednesday that it successfully launched an imaging satellite into space, a move that could further ratchet up tensions with Western nations that fear its space technology could be used to develop nuclear weapons. Iran's Communication Minister Isa Zarepour said the Noor-3 satellite had been put in an orbit 450 kilometers (280 miles) above the Earth's surface, the state-run IRNA news agency reported. It was not clear when exactly the launch took place. There was no immediate acknowledgment from Western officials of the launch or of the satellite being put into orbit. The U.S. military did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Iran has had a series of failed launches in recent years. The most recent launch was carried out by Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, which has had more success. Gen. Hossein Salami, the top commander of the Guard, told state TV that the launch had been a victory and that the satellite will collect data and images. Authorities released footage of a rocket taking off from a mobile launcher without saying where the launch occurred. Details in the video corresponded with a Guard base near Shahroud, some 330 kilometers (205 miles) northeast of the capital, Tehran. The base is in Semnan province, which hosts the Imam Khomeini Spaceport from which Irans civilian space program operates. The Guard operates its own space program and military infrastructure parallel to Irans regular armed forces and answers only to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. It launched its first satellite into space in April 2020. But the head of the U.S. Space Command later dismissed it as a tumbling webcam in space that would not provide vital intelligence. Western sanctions bar Iran from importing advanced spying technology. The United States has alleged that Irans satellite launches defy a U.N. Security Council resolution and has called on Tehran to undertake no activity related to ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear weapons. The U.S. intelligence communitys 2022 threat assessment claims the development of satellite launch vehicles shortens the timeline for Iran to develop an intercontinental ballistic missile because it uses similar technology. Iran has always denied seeking nuclear weapons, and says its space program, like its nuclear activities, is for purely civilian purposes. U.S. intelligence agencies and the International Atomic Energy Agency say Iran abandoned an organized military nuclear program in 2003. Over the past decade, Iran has sent several short-lived satellites into orbit and in 2013 launched a monkey into space. The program has seen recent troubles, however. There have been five failed launches in a row for the Simorgh program, another satellite-carrying rocket. A fire at the Imam Khomeini Spaceport in February 2019 killed three researchers, authorities said at the time. A launchpad rocket explosion later that year drew the attention of then-President Donald Trump, who taunted Iran with a tweet showing what appeared to be a U.S. surveillance photo of the site. Tensions are already high with Western nations over Iran's nuclear program, which has steadily advanced since Trump five years ago withdrew the U.S. from the 2015 nuclear agreement with world powers and restored crippling sanctions on Iran. Efforts to revive the agreement reached an impasse more than a year ago. Since then, the IAEA has said Iran has enough uranium enriched to near-weapons grade levels to build several nuclear weapons if it chooses to do so. Iran is also building a new underground nuclear facility that would likely be impervious to U.S. or Israeli airstrikes. Both countries have said they would take military action if necessary to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. Iran has expressed willingness to return to the 2015 nuclear deal, but says the U.S. should first ease the sanctions. Photo: Parliament of Canada Central Okanagan-Similkameen-Nicola MP Dan Albas This week has been tumultuous in the House of Commons, leading to the resignation of House Speaker, Anthony Rota. An election for a new Speaker is scheduled for next Tuesday, Oct. 3. Before moving forward, I would like to take this opportunity to publicly express my gratitude to Rota for his dedicated service to Canadians and all Members of the House of Commons. Ultimately, the Speaker must always serve to maintain the integrity of the Office of the Speaker. By resigning, he fulfilled this responsibility. For the record, I would also like to state I support his decision, considering the grave circumstances of the past week. A serious and unfortunate situation occurred during the address to our Canadian Parliament by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy Sept. 22. The controversy was a standing ovation given to an individual described as a war hero. The individual in question was later identified as a Ukrainian who served as a former member of a Nazi Waffen-SS unit, fighting for Hitler against the Soviet Army in World War II. For those unfamiliar, during the height of the Nazi occupation of much of Europe, the Allies liberated many Western European countries, while the Soviet Army defeated the Nazis in many Eastern Bloc countries. All suffered significant losses while fighting against Hitler's forces to remove those countries from German control or occupation. The standing ovation on Parliament Hill caused international embarrassment for Canada. Putin's Russian propaganda often attempts to use the alleged presence of Nazis in Ukraine as justification for his illegal war against the Ukrainian people. Please accept my apology in advance for trying to summarize significant parts of history in such a brief manner. I want to clarify, I am not disrespecting the importance of this issue. Instead, I am providing some context to explain why the unfortunate situation in Ottawa is of significant concern. Rota took responsibility for inviting the individual in question to Zelensky's address and resigned. (Conservative Leader) Pierre Poilievre, and our caucus expressed a clear position. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau should respect the requests from Jewish advocacy organizations and other affected communities and offer an official apology for this event. Furthermore, we advocate for a Parliamentary review to prevent a similar situation from happening in the future. Unfortunately, thus far, the prime minister has (as of my writing this column) refused to show up in Parliament to be accountable for anything that has occurred, much less to offer an apology. I sincerely hope he recognizes the error of his current approach and takes this situation more seriously and sincerely. In the absence of an apology from the prime minister, I would like to offer one. To my constituents and all Canadians, you deserve a Parliament that makes Canadians proud on the international stage. This week, our Canadian Parliament let you down, and you deserve better. While I was not present in the House of Commons for the event, I offer my sincere apologies for its occurrence. As members of the official Opposition, we will continue to demand an apology and a thorough review from the prime minister to ensure such incidents never happen again. My question to you this week: Are you concerned about this situation? If you have any concerns or questions, please get in touch with me at [email protected] or toll-free at 1-800-665-8711. Dan Albas is the Conservative MP for Central Okanagan-Similkameen-Nicola. (This column was written and submitted before Prime Minister Justin Trudeau apologized on behalf of Canada's Parliament on Wednesday.) This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet. Photo: The Canadian Press Sgt. Andrew Harnett, 37, of the Calgary Police Service is shown in this undated handout image provided by the police service. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Calgary Police Service A young man convicted in the hit-and-run death of a Calgary police officer has been sentenced to 12 years in prison. Sgt. Andrew Harnett, 37, died after he was dragged by an SUV and fell into the path of an oncoming car on Dec. 31, 2020. The driver of the SUV, who is now 20, was days away from turning 18 and was charged as a youth with first-degree murder. Court of King's Bench Justice Anna Loparco convicted him of manslaughter and ordered that he receive an adult sentence. In her sentencing decision Wednesday, she gave four years credit for the time he has already spent in custody, meaning he has eight years left to serve. A publication ban remains on the offenders name until the end of an appeal period. "Homicide is one of the most serious crimes we recognize as a society," Loparco said. "In the case where the victim of a homicide is a police officer acting in the course of his duties, public condemnation of this crime increases." She added that the driver took several, deliberate steps to dislodge the officer. "His actions are far from near accident and approach near murder. His moral culpability is extremely high," Loparco said. "There's no way to give back a life." The judge noted that Harnett's wife was pregnant with their first child when he was killed and the death fractured his family. The driver apologized to Harnett's family before receiving his sentence. "I would like to apologize to the family of the officer. I'd like to apologize to society. I'm truly sorry. I accept responsibility," he said. The driver made earlier apologies and expressed remorse but the judge gave him little credit for his words. "The focus of his remorse was how it affected his own future," she said. The Crown had asked for a sentence of 11 to 13 years, while the defence argued for 7 1/2 years minus credit for time already served. The trial heard Harnett tried to stop the SUV after he noticed its licence plate didnt match its registration. The driver testified during his trial that he was scared when Harnett and another officer approached the SUV, and he saw Harnett put a hand on his gun. Court heard the SUV took off with the officer holding onto the wheel, trying to get the driver to stop. Loparco addressed both families after passing the sentence. "I know that when everyone walks out of this courtroom what will remain is the heavy burden that you will continue to carry along with the whole community in grieving the death of Sgt. Harnett," she said. "Your life has been forever altered." Loparco also addressed the mother of the accused, first in French then in English. "I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the incredible support you have given your son," she said. "As one mother to another, I want you to know that it is your support that will make a difference in your son's life." Crown prosecutor Mike Ewenson saidoutside court that he was satisfied to get the sentence he asked for. "It's always difficult to use the word pleased, because this case is about the loss of a really respected officer and a really loved family member," he said. "It's always in the back of your mind in, no matter what number you get, the justice system can't bring the life back." A passenger in the SUV, Amir Abdulrahman, pleaded guilty to manslaughter in 2021 and was sentenced to five years in prison. He was granted day parole earlier this year. Photo: The Canadian Press Disney Plus is joining the crackdown on password sharing, telling its subscribers this week it was introducing new guidelines around household account usage. A Disney logo forms part of a menu for the Disney Plus streaming service on a computer screen in Walpole, Mass., on Nov. 13, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP-Steven Senne Disney Plus is joining the crackdown on password sharing. The Walt Disney Company started emailing its subscribers this week to signal changes to its streaming platform's user agreement, which include "restrictions on account sharing." The terms say account holders may not share their subscription outside their household, which it defines as "the collection of devices associated with your primary personal residence and the individuals who reside therein." The changes come as Disney Plus introduces a new, cheaper ad-supported tier on Nov. 1 for $7.99 per month. In August, the company outlined plans to split its existing $11.99 commercial-free package into two options: $11.99 for the high-definition version on two devices and $14.99 for the 4K version on four devices. The 4K option is the same as the current Disney Plus subscription but costs $3 more per month. Disney's password crackdown follows a move by Netflix to introduce similar rules in Canada earlier this year. Netflix's executives credited the tighter restrictions with causing a surge in new signups as people were forced to pay for their own accounts. Photo: The Canadian Press British Columbia Health Minister Adrian Dix speaks during an announcement, in Vancouver, B.C., Friday, June 9, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck The B.C. Ministry of Health says a proposed bylaw change by the body that regulates doctors could allow physician assistants to work in provincial emergency rooms. The ministry says the College of Physicians and Surgeons of B.C. has moved to make the change, which would require physician assistants to register with the college and work in hospital emergency rooms under doctor supervision. Health Minister Adrian Dix says the ministry and the college have worked together to make the change, which will give patients better access to services while supporting other health-care workers. The ministry says physician assistants could give patient exams, order tests and prescribe drugs, along with other services, under a physician's direction. The college's CEO, Dr. Heidi Oetter, says the regulator looks forward to bringing physician assistants into the fold to license them to work in B.C. emergency rooms, following other provinces including Ontario, Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The ministry statement says it's estimated that between 30 and 50 physician assistants live in B.C., and only three programs offer the training across the country, typically taking two years to complete after an undergraduate degree. Photo: Brendan Kergin. Three Vancouver police officers are on trial for assault. A trial is underway in Vancouver Provincial Court for three Vancouver police officers on assault-related charges connected to a May 24, 2017 SkyTrain incident. The officers allegedly tried to stop David Cowie for riding a bike with no light, helmet, lights or proper reflectors when the man was injured. The incident took place on the ground floor of the Commercial-Broadway SkyTrain Station. Const. Brandon Blue is charged with assault causing bodily harm, while constables Beau Spencer and Gregory Jackson are accused of assault. The Crown case is being presented by prosecutor Peter Campbell. The BC Prosecution Service (BCPS) has said the Independent Investigations Office investigated the case and passed on its report for consideration of charges to Crown counsel in February 2019. The officers were charged in September 2021. The BCPS said the charge assessment process was slowed by the complexity of the issues, volume of disclosure and its requests for further disclosure. Photo: TIMES COLONIST Attorney General Niki Sharma. B.C.s attorney general says the ailing BC Sheriff Service (BCSS) is being strengthened with better pay and benefits, increased recruitment and staff retention plans. Niki Sharmas comments come in response to problems with sheriff working conditions, burnout and attrition, all outlined in a report obtained by media. The report said several "critical changes" would need to be implemented to reduce attrition rates and allow the sheriff service to replenish its ranks. The work sheriffs do is critical to ensure people have access to courtroom services, Sharma said Sept. 27. With law-enforcement agencies across the country experiencing recruitment and retention challenges, the BCSS listened to the concerns of sheriffs to better understand what changes are needed to help guard against court closures and improve working conditions, and thats what were taking action on. Sharma said the government would be instituting a more competitive pay-and-benefits framework for sheriffs. She said sheriffs last had a pay increase in April. She told Glacier Media she has travelled throughout B.C. and has spoken to sheriffs about their concerns and has seen their workplaces. She said she takes the issues outlined in the report seriously. Anecdotally, sheriffs told Glacier Media they were skeptical and disappointed with the announcement, saying it would not stem the number of sheriffs leaving the service. As Glacier Media has revealed in previous reporting, sheriff staffing shortages have led to courtroom closures, delaying cases. The knock-on effect of those delays is that the accused could be freed if their constitutional right to a speedy trial is not met. On Sept. 26, one judge expressed concern about the delays. This is getting extremely long in the tooth, Vancouver Provincial Court Judge Reginald Harris said of a 16-month-old case. Weve got to get this moving. The community has an interest in matters being dealt with in a timely manner, Harris said citing two cases from the Supreme Court of Canada. Harris did not specifically address a sheriff-related issue. Stays of proceedings are possible if a case hits a ceiling of 18 months for those tried in the provincial court and 30 months for cases in superior courts. Lawyers have already begun mentioning the application of the so-called Jordan principles whereby that right to a speedy trial is upheld. The Jordan principles stem from a case that wound up in the Supreme Court of Canada. Delay attributable to or waived by the defence does not count towards the presumptive ceiling, the high court said. Glacier Media reported in July that courtroom closures had affected facilities in Vancouver, Abbotsford, Port Coquitlam, Surrey, Victoria, Chilliwack and Kamloops. Lack of staff to safely move prisoners inside courthouses is also causing delays, Glacier Media learned. That has also led to a decline of in-person appearances and greater use of video appearances. A lack of video rooms in prisons in the past two years has also exacerbated problems. Earlier in September, the Ministry of Attorney General told Glacier Media closures are continuing to happen. There were 31 instances where court proceedings did not go ahead due to an absence of a sheriff, between Aug. 14 and Sept. 13. Two instances took place in Abbotsford, one in North Vancouver, six in Port Coquitlam and 22 in Surrey. All of these instances were in provincial court. The ministry is working to ensure our courts are appropriately staffed and we will continue to monitor the issue, the ministry said in a Sept. 18 statement to Glacier Media. Changes ongoing Among other initiatives Sharma pledged are: making it easier for people to apply to the sheriff program by removing financial barriers to achieve a low-cost, low-travel application process; starting a regional ambassador program to raise awareness at career events and support people through the application process; implementing a strategic-marketing campaign; and, creating a dedicated recruitment team with sufficient resources to increase recruitment activities. Sharma said preliminary results indicate recruitment efforts are bearing fruit. "We're going to do everything we can to make sure the sheriffs feel supported," she said. The ministry said the service is working to further address compensation and scope of duties, increase training opportunities for staff, improve working conditions through training for managers and support for employees, and create a strategic plan that is specific to BCSS. Open and transparent dialogue with all parties continues to drive further action for sheriffs, Sharmas statement said. The ministry said changes already implemented are having effects. It said recruitment efforts are already seeing positive results, with the BCSSs summer intake receiving 624 applicants a increase from the two previous intakes (251 in April and 229 in January). The BCSS has notified the Justice Institute of British Columbia (JIBC), where sheriffs are trained, that it hopes the March 2024 class will be the largest since 2010. The ministry said 11 recruits will graduate Oct. 4, from the 11-week sheriff-training program run by the JIBC. The new sheriffs will be dispatched to Victoria, Williams Lake, Nelson, Cranbrook and communities across the Lower Mainland. In November, a class of as many as 18 recruits will begin their training, graduating in January 2024. Wages for deputy sheriffs begin at $67,729 a year, with five-year top wages set at $77,012. The top end for a sergeant is $84,135. Comparatively, a Vancouver Police Department constable makes $77,793 at the low end and tops out at $115,707. An RCMP constable earns $65,776 to start, with wages going up to $106,576. Delta is the most generous with a starting wage of $83,040, with the high end being $118,342. Training for would-be sheriffs takes 14 weeks at the JIBC, at a cost to the province of about $47,000 for each recruit, the report said. Union comment Sheriffs are represented by the B.C. General Employees' Union (BCGEU). Dean Purdy, vice-president of the union's corrections and sheriff services component, said Sharma's comments reflect measures the union has sought for more than a decade. "While these actions from the attorney general are a step in the right direction to address the staffing crisis in BC Sheriff Service, more needs to be done," Purdy said. He said the union identified to Sharma in August priorities such as moving the sheriffs to a 40-hour work week, expanding sheriffs' duties, moving the service out of the Court Services Branch into its own branch under the Ministry of Attorney General and implementing an early retirement program. "These would be possible solutions that would help address these ongoing and significant recruitment and retention challenges," Purdy said. "The recently announced recruitment and retention incentive payment which our union advocated and pushed for at many levels over the past few years was welcomed news for the nearly 2,500 members in our Corrections and Sheriff Services Component. It's a path towards ensuring sheriffs are paid fairly, but is not pensionable and is not in the wage grid." He said the BCGEU will be watching wages in other law enforcement organizations as they negotiate new contracts. "We've heard anecdotally that these agencies may be receiving significant pay increases, which would further increase the pay gap," Purdy said. "The bottom line is that sheriffs must be paid a fair wage for their work, and the number one way to recruit and retain sheriffs is to increase their pay. This is what our members have been telling us for years, and what the recently released report from the BC Sheriff Service also revealed." Impacts The Trial Lawyers Association of BC (TLABC) has already expressed concern about the court closures and their impact on access to justice. TLABC criminal defence committee chair Rebecca McConchie said in August the functioning of the criminal justice system, particularly in busier jurisdictions, would be harmed by courtroom closures. Accused persons are usually required to attend court in person for substantive court proceedings, including trials, McConchie said. She said delays are not fair to the accused, complainants, witnesses, lawyers and judges, who devote time, energy and resources into preparing to fulfil their respective roles in the court process. Photo: The Canadian Press Statistics Canada says immigration is almost solely responsible for the largest annual population boom Canada has seen since 1957. Signage marks the Statistics Canada offices in Ottawa on July 21, 2010.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick Immigration is almost solely responsible for the largest annual population boom Canada has seen since 1957, new estimates from Statistics Canada show. The newly released data estimates showCanada's population grew by more than a million people between from July 2022 to July 2023, which represents an increase of about three per cent. The population is now estimated to be well over 40 million. Canada also saw a massive 46 per cent increase in the number of temporary residents in Canada over the same period.Statistics Canada estimates there were 2.2 million "non-permanent" residents in Canada as of July 1, 2023. "If the rate of population growth seen this past year remained constant in the future, it would lead to the Canadian population doubling in 25 years," the statistics agency said in its report Wednesday. Immigration Minister Marc Miller said he isn't surprised by the numbers, but they do underscore the need to plan for the arrival of newcomers. The Liberal government has set record-breaking targets for immigration over the last several years, but doesn't set specific goals or caps for the number of people who come to Canada on temporary visas. "I think the important aspect that we have to do, and I think it is timely, is make sure that we're actually planning to make sure that we can house people properly, that they have safe labour conditions when they are here," Miller said ahead of question period on Wednesday. "And in some cases, and it isn't all of them, that there is a pathway to citizenship. But it's about planning and preparation at all levels." The estimated number of temporary residents in Canada now outnumbers the 1.8 million Indigenous people accounted for in the 2021 census. Miller and federal Housing Minister Sean Fraser recently raised concerns about the rapidly increasing number of temporary visas issued over the last several years, particularly in the context of the housing crisis. Much of the focus has been on study visas, including how to house an ever-increasing number of international students and their vulnerability to fraud schemes. The increase in temporary residents was mostly due to people with work visas, however, rather than international students. Miller said the number of workers in the country is increasing to meet the demand of a growing labour shortage. Statistics Canada changed the method used to count temporary residents after a CIBC Capital Markets report said last month that policymakers were likely vastly underestimating the true number of non-permanent residents in Canada. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation "uses the census data ... to derive its household formation forecast a forecast that is used widely by planners all over the country," CIBC economist Benjamin Tal said in his Aug. 30 report. "If your starting point is far too low, your forecast will be far too low, resulting in a suboptimal planning process." The new Statistics Canada estimate includes family members living with permit holders and accounts for people in the process of renewing their expired visas Tal called the newly released figures "extraordinary," and said the increase cannot be sustained by the available supply of affordable housing. In terms of actual numbers, the population growth over the last year is more than double the increase seen in 1957, when the baby boom was at its height and there was a Hungarian refugee crisis. Photo: The Canadian Press FILE - Former President Donald Trump speaks at a rally in Summerville, S.C., Monday, Sept. 25, 2023. As his Republican rivals gather on stage in California for their second primary debate, former President Donald Trump will be in battleground Michigan Wednesday night working to win over blue collar voters in the midst of an autoworkers strike. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr., File) President Joe Biden was raising campaign cash in San Francisco on Wednesday while seven Republican presidential hopefuls held a debate down the coast in Simi Valley. Biden wasn't paying them much attention because he's already zeroing in on Donald Trump, the GOP front-runner who wasn't on the stage. The president has been increasingly calling out Trump by name and referring to him as his likely opponent in 2024, signaling a likely rematch from four years earlier and warning of what the Democratic incumbent sees as major dangers to the nation if he is not reelected. I'm running because Democracy is still at stake in 2024. Donald Trump and the MAGA Republicans are determined to destroy American democracy," he said during one fundraiser, referring to a Trump campaign slogan and skipping entirely over Trump's GOP rivals. Biden's trip to the West this week is counterprogramming of sorts as a government shutdown looms, House Republicans launch impeachment hearings, the Republican debate unfolds and Trump makes a campaign stop in Michigan to court autoworkers. Biden is drawing a contrast with the GOP logjams in Congress, seeking to showcase what he is getting done and trying to make the case that will continue as long as he wins a second term. Im running because important freedoms we have now are at stake, Biden told supporters at a Tuesday night fundraiser. The right to choose. The right to vote. The right to be who you are, love who you love. Theyre being attacked and being shredded right now. Earlier Tuesday, Biden became the first modern president to walk a picket line when he joined UAW members in the Detroit area. The union has expanded its strike against Detroit automakers by walking out of spare-parts warehouses in 20 states. Biden met with the science and technology advisers on Wednesday to discuss artificial intelligence, vaccine misinformation and other concerns. He said he did not think a government shutdown was unavoidable. I dont think anything is inevitable when it comes to politics, the president said. When asked what could be done to avoid it, he said, If I knew that I would have done it already. Before he heading to Phoenix in the evening, Biden headlined three Northern California fundraisers, avoiding for now the famous names and bank accounts -- in Los Angeles as the actors' strike wears on, although the writers' strike ended Tuesday. In Arizona, a critical swing state he won in 2020, Biden will pay tribute to the late U.S. Sen. John McCain and give a democracy-focused address on Thursday. Trump, meanwhile, railed against electric vehicles during a speech in Michigan at a non-unionized auto parts supplier, shortly before the second debate of the primary season got underway without him. Biden never mentioned the debate, but at his final fundraiser of the night, he told supporters Trump was out for revenge. He'll seek revenge for what's happened ... you know all the assertions he's made, Biden said. Donald Trump does believe we're a nation driven by anger and fear, and is playing on it. He says we're a failed nation. Did you ever think you'd hear a former president of the United States say those kinds of things? Trump is facing multiple criminal indictments, including charges related to the Republican's role in seeking to overturn the 2020 election he lost to Biden. Nonetheless, Trump is the most popular choice among Republicans at this point for the party's White House nomination. Nearly two-thirds of Republicans 63% now say they want him to run again, according a poll last month from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. Thats up slightly from the 55% who said the same in April when Trump began facing a series of criminal charges. While 74% of Republicans say they would support Trump in November 2024, 53% of those in the survey say they would definitely not support him if he is the nominee. An additional 11% say they would probably not support him. Biden doesn't fare much better, with 26% overall wanting to see him run again, with 47% of Democrats saying they want him to run, compared with 37% in January. Photo: The Canadian Press A man has pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the death of a Saskatchewan RCMP officer. RCMP Constable Shelby Patton is shown in this undated handout photo. Constable Patton, of the Indian Head Detachment, was killed on June 12, 2021 after being hit by a pickup truck during a traffic stop. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO, RCMP The mother of a Saskatchewan RCMP officer who was killed two years ago says it was hell to watch a Winnipeg man plead guilty to manslaughter in her sons death. Alphonse Stanley Traverse pleaded guilty on Wednesday to the charge in Regina Court of King's Bench for his role in Const. Shelby Patton's death. Traverse also pleaded guilty to a charge of stealing a motor vehicle. Its very traumatic, Melanie Patton, the mother of the 26-year-old Mountie, said in an interview. Its better than sitting through a trial, but at the same time theres so much trauma and were not going to recover. Its like Im living in hell. Shelby Patton was killed more than two years ago when he attempted to stop a stolen truck, driven by Traverse, near the town of Wolseley, east of Regina. According to an agreed statement of facts, Traverse had been driving from Winnipeg to Saskatchewan in June 2021 to play VLTs. He was with Marlene Pagee at the time, and they chose to go to Saskatchewan because bars were open in the province. COVID-19 measures meant bars were closed in Manitoba. Traverse was on warrant status for various Criminal Code offences, the document said, and Pagee had been on bail with conditions. She also faces one count of accessory to murder after the fact in Patton's death. Court heard Traverse and Pagee were driving a stolen green truck as they made their way to Saskatchewan. They were both using crystal meth. However, the green truck wasnt working well, so Traverse and Pagee began looking for another vehicle. The document said they came across another truck near Pipestone, Man., and stole it. The truck was unlocked and had keys in the ignition. The document said Traverse and Pagee made their way to Wolseley and stopped outside a hotel. Patton was then dispatched to investigate a suspected stolen truck in town. When Patton arrived, court heard the couple noticed the Mounties car, so they decided to drive away. However, Patton stopped them shortly thereafter and walked towards the drivers window, speaking with Traverse. Court heard Patton had asked Traverse if he worked for the company that owned the truck. Traverse lied, saying he did. Patton then told him the truck had been reported stolen, asking him to step out of the vehicle until the issue could be sorted. Traverse then turned to Pagee, saying I cant, and started the truck. Court heard Patton stepped up on the trucks running board and reached for the keys inside. The truck then accelerated rapidly and jerked. The document said Patton fell off the running board. The rear driver-side tire ran over his body, killing him. Melanie Patton said her sons death was no accident. He was a very good officer. He did not make a mistake, she said. Im sure any officer would have done the same. The job is very dangerous and getting more dangerous, unfortunately. She said she hopes Traverse is given the maximum penalty. Traverse is scheduled for sentencing on Jan. 17. Photo: The Canadian Press U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan said Wednesday she wont recuse herself from Donald Trumps 2020 election interference case in Washington, rejecting the former presidents claims that her past comments raise doubts about whether she can be fair. Chutkan, who was nominated to the bench by President Barack Obama and was randomly assigned to Trumps case, said in her written decision that she sees no reason to step aside. The case, scheduled for trial in March, accuses the Republican of illegally scheming to overturn his election loss to Democrat Joe Biden. Theres a high bar for recusal, and legal experts had widely considered Trumps request to be a long shot aimed at undermining the legitimacy of the case publicly that could only sour the relationship between the judge and the defense in court. Lawyers for Trump did not immediately return an email seeking comment. In seeking Chutkan's recusal, defense lawyers cited statements she had made in two sentencing hearings of participants in the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol in which they said she had appeared to suggest that Trump deserved to be prosecuted and held accountable. They said the comments suggested a bias against him that could taint the proceedings. But Chutkan vigorously objected to the those characterizations of her comments. "It bears noting that the court has never taken the position the defense ascribes to it: that former President Trump should be prosecuted and imprisoned, Chutkan wrote. And the defense does not cite any instance of the court ever uttering those words or anything similar. Its the second time Trump has tried unsuccessfully to get a judge removed from one of the criminal cases against him. Judge Juan Manuel Merchan, who is overseeing Trumps New York hush money criminal case, rejected similar demands that he step aside, saying he is certain of his ability to be fair and impartial. Chutkan has stood out as one of the toughest punishers of defendants charged in the Jan. 6 insurrection, in which a mob of Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol. Trump, the early front-runner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, has personally assailed her on social media as he tries to make the case that the prosecution is politically motivated. Federal special counsel Jack Smiths team said there was no valid basis to have Chutkan removed from the case. Like Chutkan, they said she never said that Trump was legally or morally to blame for the events of Jan. 6 or that he deserved to be punished. Chutkan wrote in her order that though recusal is a valid step when merited, judges should not step aside without cause, as she suggested the Trump lawyers were asking her to do. Trump's team had pointed in their recusal bid to a sentencing hearing for a Jan. 6 defendant in which Chutkan said the rioters had "blind loyalty to one person who, by the way, remains free to this day. Chutkan wrote in her decision Wednesday that she was merely stating an undisputed fact, that Trump was free but it went no further. Chutkan is also considering a request by Smiths team for a narrow gag order that would bar Trump from making inflammatory and intimidating comments about witnesses, lawyers and other people involved in the case. Trump's lawyers objected this week to that request. Chutkan has scheduled the trial to begin March 4, 2024, over the vigorous objections of defense lawyers who said that would not give them enough time to prepare. The case in Washingtons federal court is one of four criminal cases confronting the former president as he seeks to regain the White House. Photo: The Canadian Press Quebec's police watchdog is investigating after a member of a provincial police tactical team shot a man suspected of making threats toward Premier Francois Legault and Prime Minster Justin Trudeau. The agency, known as the Bureau des enquetes independantes, says the shooting occurred during an attempted arrest early Wednesday morning at a home in Scotstown, Que., about 180 kilometres east of Montreal. According to the BEI, an officer who was looking through a window shot the suspect when he saw him point a gun toward the door where officers were entering. It says the man was wounded and is in stable condition. Montreal police confirmed late Wednesday that the suspect had allegedly made threats against Legault and Trudeau. Legault's office said in a statement that it is aware of the situation and that all threats against elected officials are unacceptable and should be denounced. Photo: The Canadian Press Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe listens during a news conference, in Whistler, B.C., on Tuesday, June 27, 2023. Moe says his government will use the notwithstanding clause of the Canadian Constitution and pass legislation this fall to ensure the province's pronoun policy remains in place.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck The Saskatchewan government will use the notwithstanding clause of the Constitution and pass legislation this fall to ensure the province's pronoun policy remains in place, Premier Scott Moe said Thursday. Moe made the comment shortly after a judge granted an injunction to pause the policy that requires parental consent when children under 16 want to go by different names and pronouns at school. Moe said in a statement hes extremely dismayed by the injunction, calling it judicial overreach. He said the policy has strong support from the majority of Saskatchewan residents and parents. "The default position should never be to keep a child's information from their parents," Moe said. "It is in the best interest of children to ensure parents are included in their children's education, in their classrooms and in all important decisions involving their children." Moe said he will recall the legislative assembly on Oct. 10 and use the notwithstanding clause, a provision that allows governments to override certain Charter rights for up to five years. Earlier Thursday, Court of King's Bench Justice Michael Megaw ordered the injunction until a constitutional challenge can be heard in court. "The protection of these youth surpasses that interest expressed by the government, pending a full and complete hearing into the constitutionality of this policy," Megaw wrote in his 56-page decision. "I find this to be one of those clear cases where injunctive relief is necessary to attempt to prevent the irreparable harm referred to pending a full hearing of this matter on its merits." Lawyers for UR Pride sought the injunction, arguing the policy could cause teachers to out or misgender children and that it violates the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Saskatchewan's child advocate Lisa Broda has also said it violates rights to gender identity and expression. The constitutional challenge is set to be heard in court in November. DPRK to expel U.S. soldier over illegal border crossing Xinhua) 13:37, September 28, 2023 SEOUL, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) has decided to expel U.S. soldier Travis King over an illegal crossing into the country in July, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said Wednesday, without specifying a destination. The U.S. soldier has confessed he illegally intruded into the country as he harbored ill feelings toward inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination within the U.S. army and was disillusioned about the inequality of U.S. society, said KCNA, citing an investigation by DPRK authorities. On July 18, the army private based in South Korea illegally intruded into the DPRK after blending in with tourists to the Joint Security Area of Panmunjom, a demilitarized zone on the Korean peninsula, KCNA said in a previous report. According to the report, King was subsequently taken into custody and expressed his willingness to seek refuge in the DPRK or a third country. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) This service is a courtesy for our print subscribers to give them access to our online edition at no additional cost - if you haven't registered on the new site, you must do it now before you do anything else. Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park will host a special program on Friday at 2 p.m. highlighting work currently being done at the Chickamauga Battlefield on the 15th U.S. Infantrys regimental monument, located at Tour Stop 2 on Battleline Road. Staff from Northern Stone Carving, who is conducting the restoration work, will be on hand as well."The 15th U.S. Infantry Regiment was part of Brigadier General John H. Kings Regular Brigade in the Union Army of the Cumberland during the Battle of Chickamauga," officials said."They witnessed some of the heaviest fighting of the battle. Some of the first monuments placed on the battlefield were those to the regiments of the Regular Brigade, starting in 1893. The 15th U.S. Infantry is still an active unit of the United States Army, having served the country in all wars since the Civil War. Come learn the history of this proud unit of the United States Army and see the process of restoration to one of the oldest monuments on the battlefield."For more information about programs at Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, contact the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center at 706-866-9241, the Lookout Mountain Battlefield Visitor Center at 423-821-7786, or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/chch. Lee University will host an art exhibition featuring a private collection of works from artist Pamela Diaz Martinez in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. The exhibition, which will be on display at the Squires Library, will open on Thursday, Oct. 5 with a reception held from 5-6 p.m.I am so excited to have Pamela share her work with us, said Victoria Phillips, visiting assistant professor of art. What an honor it is to have her work here during Hispanic Heritage Month. We are working hard to have an inclusive gallery space that highlights diversity.For nearly a decade, Ms.Martinez designed for Esquivel, a luxury shoe brand based in California. Her designs were featured in major fashion magazines, newspapers and blogs, such as Vogue, The Wall Street Journal and LA Times. In 2015, she left the fashion industry to pursue her love for painting and drawing.Since then, Ms. Martinezs work has been exhibited nationally and internationally in galleries, universities, museums, residencies and pop up and alternative project spaces. Her experimental work has been featured alongside Odd Nerdrum and other reputable figurative artists in an exhibition representing Southern California Figurative Art. This fall, Ms. Martinez will open her own gallery, titled D U N A M I S art space, which will be dedicated to spiritual contemplation.According to Ms. Martinez, Scripture is the philosophical vantage point from which she works. The pieces in her exhibition series are made of pastel on plastic paper and are not fixed to the surface, representing the permutations of wind and of the Holy Spirit.In addition to several group shows, Ms. Martinezs work has been exhibited solo all around the United States, including Georgia, California and Wisconsin. She earned her master of fine arts at Arizona State University.The art exhibition in Squires will run from Oct 5-24, and will be open MondayThursday from 8 a.m.-midnight, Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday from noon-8 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m.-midnight.For more information, contact Ms. Phillips at vphillips@leeuniversity.edu. Here are the upcoming Chattanooga Live Music (CLM) events through Oct. 5, plus the Fall Music Festival Schedule. Check the CLM Facebook event page for details.Send your event co-host invites to Chattanooga Live Music to amplify your events.27-Sep Wednesday Jazz: Joe Evans Trio (David Schwab, Matt Turnure, Joe Evans at 7 PM27-Sep The Signal w/halfalive: Conditions of A Punk at 7:30 PM28-Sep The FEED co. Table & Tavern w/ Jason Lyles at 6:30 PM28-Sep Memorial Aud.w/ Chattanooga Symphony & Opera feat. Scheherazade 7:30 PM28-Sep Farm to Fork CRUISE-IN with Live Music at 6:30 PM28-Sep Barrelhouse w/ Victor Wooten & The Wooten Bros w/Rebirth Brass Band 7 PM28-Sep The Dark Roast w/ Frenchs Open Mic Night at 8:30 PM29-Sep Songbirds Foundation w/ The Arcadian Wild at 7 PM29-Sep Mountain Arts Community Center (MACC) w/Improv CHA at 8 PM29-Sep Whiskey Cowgirl w/The Band Waleska at 8 PM29-Sep The Signal w/ Morgan Wade W/ Guest Meg McRee at 8 PM29-Sep Farm to Fork - Jimmy Buffett Tribute w/ The Daly Grind Feat. Ivan Wilson at 8:30 PM29-Sep Woodshop Listening Room: Rachel Sumner and Traveling Light + Redd at 8 PM29-Sep The Granfalloon w/ Chad Douglas at 8:30 PM29-Sep JJs Bohemia w/ Wailin' Storms (NC), 3 Balls of Fire (TX) TBA at 8 PM29-Sep Puckett's w/ Sam Steadman at 8 PM29-Sep Hi-Fi Clyde's w/ We Are Us with Moon Juice at 9 PM29-Sep Tunnel Vision w/ Aunt Betty Band at 9 PM29-Sep Buds Sports Bar w/ The Steel Whiskey Band (Night #1) at 9 PM30-Sep Buds Sports Bar w/ The Steel Whiskey Band (Night #2) at 9 PM30-Sep First TN Pavilion w/ City of Creators presents: Tennessee Whiskey Festival at 1 PM30-Sep Puckett's w/ Jessamyn Rains at 8 PM30-Sep Hi-Fi Clyde's w/ Pink Houses at 9 PM30-Sep Tremont Tavern - Hunter's Gift (Variety of Live Music) Mental Health Awareness at 7 PM30-Sep JJs Bohemia w/ World Leaders, Zan Teddy, Croctopus 8 PM30-Sep Gate 11 Distillery w/ The Revival & Friends (Chip Ables Birthday Bash) 7 PM30-Sep Puckett's (Pigeon Forge) Zech Dallas Live at Puckett's (BAND) at 7:30 PM30-Sep The Signal w/ Priscilla Block at 8 PM30-Sep Axle's & Ale's w/ LeVel 77 at 8 PM30-Sep Whiskey Cowgirl w/Dusty Leigh Huston at 8 PM30-Sep Barrelhouse w/ Cosmic Charlie - High Energy Grateful Dead at 8 PM-30-Sep The Goat Bar and Grill w/ The Essentials at 8 PM30-Sep Woodshop Listening Room: Abe Partridge, Vic Burgess & Clayton Jones 8 PM1-Oct Barrelhouse Funday *FREE SHOW* ft Danimal, Martelli & Forlines at 1 PM1-Oct Finley Stadium w/ Raul Enrique Live Hispanic Heritage at 3 PM1-Oct Memorial Auditorium w/ Fantasia at 7:30 PM1-Oct The Signal w/Switchfoot: The Beautiful Letdown 20th Anvers. Tour w/ Wildermiss 7:30 PM2-Oct Gate 11 Distillery w/ Robin Baker Blues Jam at 8 PM3-Oct Walker Theatre w/ Drive-by Truckers at 7:30 PM3-Oct Tremont Tavern w/ Open Mic Mike McDade at 8 PM3-Oct Barrelhouse w/Low Cut Connie with Matthew Logan Vasquez at 8 PM3-Oct The Signal w/ Declan McKenna The Big Return w/ Allie Crow Buckley at 8 PM4-Oct Walker Theatre w/ Mary Chapin Carpenter and Shawn Colvin at 7:30 PM4-Oct The Dark Roast w/ Resistor & Empty Hands at 7:30 PM4-Oct Barrelhouse w/ Peachtree Entertainment presents Uncle Lucius at 8 PM5-Oct The FEED co. Table & Tavern w/Barron Wilson on the Patio at 6:30 PM5-Oct Abba's House (Hixson) w/ Chonda Pierce Live in Concert at 8 PM5-Oct Walker Theatre w/ Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs at 8 PM5-Oct Barrelhouse featuring Gyasi with Red Pawn at 8:30 PMOutdoor Festivals23-Sep Cannabis Festival at Coolidge Park - Chattanooga30-Sep First Tennessee Pavilion - Tennessee Whiskey Festival Chattanooga6-Oct Oct 6-7 / The 3 Sisters Bluegrass Festival - Chattanooga6-Oct Oct 6 - 8 / Cave Fest at the Cavern in Grundy Co. TN13-Oct Oct 13, 14 &15 Motor Car Event Chattanooga features The B-52s21-Oct Oct 21 & 22 Rome River Jam C V Fairgrounds w/ Parker McCollum, Lainey Wilson etc.10-Nov Nov 10, 11 & 12 Hamilt. County Fair w/ Lauren Alaina & Brandon Davis (Headliners) This summer, Dr. Ashley Mulligan, assistant professor of English at Lee University, earned her doctor in philosophy in English at Pennsylvania State University (Penn State), her specialty research area being 19th Century British Literature.Dr. Mulligan began pursuing her master of arts in English at Penn State following her graduation from Lee University in 2015. By the time she accepted the role as a Late British Literature professor at Lee in 2019, Dr. Mulligan was less than halfway through writing her dissertation.It was difficult to stay intellectually invested in my scholarship during the semesters when my passion was to teach and build relationships with my students, said Dr.Mulligan. But I often found that their enthusiasm and insights in the classroomespecially when I was teaching them Wordsworths or other Romantics poetryreinvigorated me and gave me the inspiration I needed to finish it.The dissertation, titled Wordworths Sacrificial Poetics: Rhetoric and Self-Formation, 1791-1801, suggests that the Romantics tradition of poetry, influenced by freedom of creation, was largely unaware of the pain and doubt William Wordsworth experienced in his calling as a poet. Dr. Mulligan suggested that Wordsworth's wrestle with failure and fragility in his earlier works was an act of sacrifice for the betterment of his readers.Wordsworths rhetorical adjustments from the beginning to the end of the 1790s were subtle and delicate, but my dissertation demonstrates how when focalized, they illuminate a new aspect of his poeticsthat his theory involved his rhetorical posturing as a kind of stoic sage who consented to the inevitable pain of composition for the sake of his readers souls, said Dr. Mulligan.Dr. Mulligan ties her dissertation specifically to one of Wordsworths most famous poems, Tintern Abbey, which tells of the tranquility of nature and how it influenced his deeds of kindness. Dr. Mulligan argued that Wordsworth used his own experience of pain in his poetry to convince his readers to perform social acts of care.I am so proud to have completed this degree and know it wouldnt have happened but through the grace of God and pivotal moments of encouragement from family, mentors and students, said Dr. Mulligan. Dr. C. Bruce Marsh passed away peacefully on September 27, 2023, at age 91, just eight days shy of his 60th wedding anniversary. He was the son of Dr. Fred Marsh and Mildred Marsh and the youngest of three brothers. Bruce was a beloved husband, father and physician whose sense of humor and care for his family and patients will long be remembered. Bruce graduated from Baylor School, the University of the South (Sewanee) and the University of Tennessee College of Medicine. During his college years, he served in the Naval Reserve. Specialty training followed at the Medical College of South Carolina, the Lahey Clinic in Massachusetts and Duke University. Bruce and his new bride, Vicki, then returned to Chattanooga to join his father in the practice of internal medicine and gastroenterology. Bruce was a member of the Hamilton County, Tn., and American Medical Associations and the American College of Physicians and the American Gastroenterological Association. Having come to saving faith in Jesus Christ in his mid-thirties, Bruce became a member of First Presbyterian Church and, later, Brainerd Baptist Church. He dedicated time each day to reading the Scriptures, and he read the Bible in its entirety to his children. He also earned a certificate in biblical studies from Moody Bible Institute. He was passionate about sharing the good news that Jesus has come into the world to save sinners and grant them new and everlasting life. In the 1980s, Bruce was introduced by his teenage son (also named Bruce) to a missionary and Bible translator who had been serving in the remote village of Hauna in Papua New Guinea. He caught her vision for a medical center in this remote jungle village and proceeded to raise funds for the construction of a clinic. Visiting surgical teams, most of them led by the late Dr. Louis Carter, have rendered life-changing and life-saving care at the clinic in Hauna. In 2005, Bruce and his wife Vicki served on one of these teams. The clinic still serves as a healing ministry to those along the Sepik River. Bruce was fortunate to spend his last days with his wife, children and grandchildren all living nearby in Chattanooga. He is survived by his wife Vicki, daughter Susan Stocksdale (Jon), sons Bruce Marsh and Steve Marsh (Rebecca), his grandchildren Daniel Marsh, Caroline Allison, Heather Marsh, Ben Stocksdale, Greg Marsh and David Marsh, and his sister-in-law Virginia Marsh. He was predeceased by his parents Fred and Mildred Marsh and by his brothers Bill and Fred. A memorial service to celebrate Bruces life will be held at Lane Funeral Home Coulter Chapel on October 6, at 2 p.m., with a visitation before the funeral from 12-2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bruces memory to World Medical Mission (Boone, NC). Arrangement are entrusted to Lane Funeral Home Ashland Terrace, www.Lanefh.com, 423 877-3524. The Tennessee Supreme Court on Thursday ruled that the economic loss doctrine applies only to products liability cases and should not be expanded. The doctrine generally prevents a contracting party who suffers only economic losses from recovering additional damages under tort law principles. Because it limited the doctrine to only certain types of cases, the Court reinstated a jury verdict allowing a construction subcontractor to recover on its tort claims against the general contractor. The parties dispute arose from the construction of a multi-building retirement community in Shelby County. The Weitz Company, LLC contracted with the Commercial Painting Company to install drywall, wall insulation, and ceilings. Commercial Painting alleged that Weitz misled them from the beginning of the relationship by misrepresenting facts about how far behind the project was, other subcontractors bids, and the amount of time allowed to complete the project. Commercial Painting also claimed that Weitz wrongfully refused to pay for extra work performed. A jury found Weitz liable under theories of breach of contract, intentional misrepresentation, and unjust enrichment. The total jury award was $8,359,863.83, which included compensatory and punitive damages, attorneys fees and litigation costs, and pre-judgment interest. On Weitzs appeal, the Tennessee Court of Appeals reversed the award based on the tort theories of misrepresentation and unjust enrichment, holding that the claims were barred by the economic loss doctrine. This rule precludes recovery in tort for a contracting party who buys a product and suffers only monetary loss ? not bodily injury or property damage to anything other than the defective product itself. The economic loss doctrine in Tennessee has only been applied in cases of products liability, not for services as in this case. Here, the Court of Appeals extended the doctrine to bar Commercial Paintings recovery under tort theories. A majority of the Tennessee Supreme Court reinstated the jury verdict, holding that the economic loss doctrine should not be expanded beyond products liability cases. The Court reasoned that in cases involving contracts for the sale of goods, the purchaser is adequately protected by the Uniform Commercial Code, and there is no need to also allow for tort recovery. However, in cases involving service contracts, the Uniform Commercial Code does not apply. Thus, the doctrine should not apply to bar a plaintiff from recovering economic losses based on a tort theory. The Court also noted that in states that have extended the economic loss doctrine to service contracts, the results have been confusing and unpredictable. The Court concluded that the law of damages, contracts, and torts is sufficiently developed to prevent the risk of excessive recovery under tort theories. Justice Sarah K. Campbell, joined by Justice Jeff Bivins, dissented. The dissent concluded that the economic loss doctrine should apply in cases involving contracts for services. The dissent reasoned that application of the doctrine to contracts for services would further the doctrines underlying purpose of establishing a boundary line between contract law and tort law. The dissent further reasoned that existing legal principles are not an adequate substitute for the economic loss doctrine and disagreed with the majoritys conclusion that extension of the doctrine would be confusing. To read the opinion of the Court in Commercial Painting Co., Inc. v. The Weitz Company, LLC et al., authored by Justice Sharon G. Lee, and the dissenting opinion, please visit the Opinions section of TNCourts.gov. Former reality star Jill Duggar-Dillard rose to fame on her familys reality show, 19 Kids and Counting. Since then, she has authored two books and recently appeared in a documentary regarding her familys deepest secrets. The Duggar family is known for being strict and extremely rigid, requiring their children to follow a number of hard-core rules. As followers of the Institute of Basic Life Principles (IBLP), an ultra-conservative Christian organization, the Duggars are deeply rooted in their faith. However, Duggar-Dillard says her familys church is a cult heres why. Who is Jill Duggar-Dillard? Jill Duggar Dillard in 2014 | D Dipasupil/Getty Images for Extra Duggar-Dillard is a former television personality and author, the fourth child and second daughter of Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar. According to US Weekly, she married her husband, Derick, in 2014, and the couple are parents to three children. A native of Arkansas, the former reality star spent her early life doing interviews and participated in a Christian retreat for teens and young adults called Journey to the Heart. According to Fandom, Duggar-Dillard worked hard around her familys home, assisting her younger sisters with their schoolwork, taking music lessons, and working on her assigned household chores, which her family referred to as jurisdictions. It was in 2015 that Duggar-Dillard and her husband left for a long-term mission trip to El Salvador. Fans and donors began complaining that the two were spending just as much time in Arkansas as on the mission field, causing them to begin refunding donations. The couple went on to appear in the familys second reality show, Counting On, and soon permanently relocated their mission to Northwest Arkansas. In addition to becoming a Certified Professional Midwife, Duggar-Dillard has volunteered for the fire department and often promotes products from Christian-based companies on social media. Jill Duggar-Dillard Says Her Familys Church is a Cult Jill Duggar and Derick Dillard in 2014 | D Dipasupil/Getty Images for Extra The Institute of Basic Life Principles, founded in 1961 by Bill Gothard is known for being controversial. According to People, the organization promotes male authority and places strict rules on activities such as movies, television, music, dancing, and dating. Gothard left the organization in 2014. Duggar-Dillard herself is no longer connected to IBLP after being a follower for quite some time. Now, she says, I really do think that IBLP is a form of a cult. I think that even if you remove the person in leadership, a lot of those same values and principles are still being taught, so it doesnt fix the problem. Duggar-Dillard continued by adding, I think thats what some people think like, Oh, weve removed Bill Gothard from the situation. It makes everything better. No, it changes and maybe adds a nice storefront to the picture, but it doesnt change the overall principles that are still being taught and held to. Although the former reality star says that she still values a lot of the principles that she learned from her parents, she says that its crucial to be careful not to get sucked into something because it looks great or because you see a family that youre like, Oh, I want to be like that, and ignore the warning signs. The Duggar Family According to US Weekly, the Duggar family consists of the parents and 19 children, including two sets of twins, as the parents vowed to let God bless them with as many children as he saw fit. All the children have names that begin with the letter J, and all were homeschooled. The kids followed the rules, such as the girls only being allowed to wear skirts, no television allowed in the home, no tattoos, and long, undyed hair for all of the girls. One of the biggestand most bizarrerules the children had to follow? No kissing before they were married and only side hugs were allowed, lasting three seconds or less. The Duggar parents worked hard to teach their children strong values, although they havent been without scandal. The oldest son Josh, was famously arrested in 2021, and since then, Duggar-Dillard and her family have been distancing themselves from the rest of the family. They recently appeared in their own docuseries, Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets, which will explore the Duggar familys scandals and ties to the religious organization Institute in Basic Life Principles, all while giving an inside look at the unique family. RELATED: Jill Duggar and Derick Dillard Said Their First Thanksgiving Together Wasnt Featured on 19 Kids and Counting Kody Brown is suddenly interested in plural monogamy despite not structuring his plural marriages that way for decades. 'Sister Wives' fans are convinced it's all Robyn Brown's idea. For years, Sister Wives fans have felt fairly certain that Kody Brown was simply serving as Robyn Browns mouthpiece. Some of the patriarchs most bizarre decisions or suggestions came directly from Robyn or were made to benefit Robyn. Sister Wives viewers feel certain that we can add Kodys recent plural monogamy suggestion to that list. While he tried to suggest the idea was Janelles, we think the idea was Robyn Browns. She would feel rather comfortable with plural monogamy. It is exactly how she grew up and how shes conducted herself in her current marriage. Kody Brown floats the idea of plural monogamy to Janelle Brown in a recent Sister Wives episode In the most recent episode of Sister Wives, Kody Brown floated a wild idea to Janelle Brown. The former polygamist sat down with his estranged wife to discuss their separation. In an attempt to reconcile, Kody said he and Janelle had to figure out plural monogamy because she was uninterested in having a relationship with Robyn Brown. Plural monogamy is a situation in which one husband has multiple wives, but his families dont interact with each other. Kody suggested the idea was Janelles, although she refutes that claim. Sister Wives fans are in agreement. They think Kody Brown is throwing around the concept of plural monogamy because it is what Robyn Brown would be most comfortable with. Robyn Brown seems pretty comfortable with idea While Kody didnt mention Robyns name while discussing plural polygamy, viewers quickly pointed out that the Sister Wives star was pretty comfortable living the concept. In fact, they argue that she entered the family intending to be a plural monogamist. Unlike Meri, Janelle, and Christine Brown, who spent much of the first decade of their marriages living in close quarters and trying to work together, Robyn had no interest in doing the same. During her early marriage, she lived in a separate house in Lehi, Utah, and moved into her own home in Las Vegas, too. Robyn has never lived with her sister wives. She also hasnt done much to assimilate into the Brown family culture. Robyn Brown was raised in plural monogamy Robyn Browns background has been discussed multiple times on Sister Wives. Kodys fourth wife insisted that she grew up in polygamy and always planned to practice the principle despite her first marriage being monogamous. While Robyn often speaks about polygamy, Sister Wives viewers have suggested that she doesnt know much about it because she, technically, was not raised in a plural household. Robyn Brown | TLC.YouTube According to Reddit users who did some digging, Robyn Browns stepfather, Paul Sullivan, was a polygamist with two wives. They did not live in the same house or even on the same street, though. According to several sources, Paul Sullivans wives lived in completely different towns and appeared to have limited interactions. Robyn has spoken about postponing celebrations because her father was with his other family. The statement suggests that Sullivans two families didnt socialize. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAHs) are considered harmful to health, especially as potential carcinogens. For example, the molecular compounds of carbon and hydrogen atoms can arise in house fires when mattresses, curtains, wooden beams, plastic, or other objects made of organic materials burn. To better protect firefighters from these risks, the Fraunhofer Institute for Material and Beam Technology IWS in Dresden, together with partners from industry, has laid the groundwork for developing novel anti-PAK protective suits. The German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) is funding the project with 1.24 million euros until December 2023 as part of the Research for Civil Security program. The innovative protection concept of the new suits includes high-materials and intelligent monitoring: Modern nonwovens, as a central component of the protective suits, effectively prevent skin contact with the pollutants. Ultraviolet sensors are also integrated into the fabrics to determine when the textile protective shield is saturated with PAH and needs to be replaced. This provides double safety for rescue personnel. The new protective clothing has already passed the first tests in fire containers. PAK-Accumulation over a Lifetime of Work Increases Cancer Risk On a single job, it may only be a few micrograms of PAH that get onto the skin through openings in the protective suit, explains Felix Spranger, Group Manager Gas and Particle Filtration at Fraunhofer IWS. The treacherous aspect of PAH is that they can continue to accumulate in the firefighters' bodies over an entire working life. Studies from Germany and the U.S. have shown increased incidences of cancer in this occupational group. Therefore, it was important to find solutions incorporating new technological approaches such as smart textiles. For this purpose, Fraunhofer IWS joined forces with four other partners in 2020 to form the project 3D-Funktionsvliesstoffe mit integrierter Gassensorik fur die Schutzbekleidung von Einsatzkraften (3D-PAKtex, Engl: 3D functional nonwovens with integrated gas sensor technology for the protective clothing of emergency personnel). To protect firefighters from the harmful PAH in flue gases and soot swirls in burning houses in the future, the collaborative partners pursued a two-pronged concept: on the one hand, the focus was on the development of fleece-based new filters, and on the other hand, on a sensor concept to monitor their functionality. Activated Carbon Fleeces Filter Ring Molecules from Flue Gas Fraunhofer IWS first identified suitable porous activated carbons that bind PAH particularly well. Project partner Norafin fixed these adsorbents with special binders in nonwovens optimized for fire applications. Norafin's partner S-GARD integrated the new additional nonwovens into a demonstration suit. The manufacturer added small closure pockets at sleeve openings, waistbands, and other points, which can accommodate the new additional filters using press studs at those points where, in the worst case, smoke gases could still enter the suit despite all insulation. If smoke gas flows past these spots, the fleece binds the toxins. In addition, project partner JLM Innovation equipped the new filter fleeces with specifically engineered monitoring sensors based on fluorescence spectroscopy. These mini-spectrometers emit ultraviolet light of a precisely defined wavelength. When these UV rays hit PAH, the ring molecules first absorb their energy and then send back other UV rays at a slightly different wavelength. The sensors measure the returned light: The more intense, the higher the PAH concentration in the fleece. An electronic control unit in the firefighter's breast pocket evaluates this data and sends it to a smartphone via Bluetooth. The development and implementation of the repective software was accomplished by ATS Elektronik. It enables the rescuers to see in real-time how their PAH filters are filling up and when they need to be replaced. In laboratory tests, the new nonwoven activated carbon filters have significantly reduced the flue gas PAH load. This was followed by practical simulations in fire containers: Experienced testers donned the suit prototypes, and set fire to mattresses, then rubber tires and other test objects in a shielded container to try out the new protective clothing in different fire scenarios. We will thoroughly evaluate these findings and continue to monitor the market to make a well-founded decision on possible series production, announced Jonas Kuschnir of S-GARD. The new protective approach against PAHs entails certain additional costs, but the projects results were promising. High Market Potential for Intelligent Textiles Expected Whatever the outcome of this decision, 3D-PAKtex has, in any case, led to a considerable gain in expertise for the collaborative partners. The topic will also continue to occupy Fraunhofer IWS. Felix Spranger: We still see some approaches, for example, to further improve the new protection technology's sensors and interfaces. From feedback, we know that industry partners still perceive great potential in such smart textiles, even beyond protective firefighting clothing. This is also consistent with the findings of international observers. For example, analysts at the British market research company IDTechEx expect the market for electronically enhanced or smart textiles to grow to the equivalent of around 713 million euros by 2033. Annual growth rates averaging 3.8 percent are expected. (dpa) Lego is saying goodbye to its plan to manufacture building blocks from recycled PET bottles. After several years of testing, the toy company from Billund, Denmark, has decided not to pursue this project any further. This was announced by a spokesman for the Lego Group in Scandinavia on Monday. Earlier, the Financial Times had reported. Most plastics are based on crude oil, including the material used in Lego bricks. According to the spokesman, however, the company is not giving up efforts to find oil-free materials for its products: Lego remains firmly committed to making bricks from sustainable materials by 2032, he said. In June 2021, Lego had presented a prototype of a building block made from the PET plastic of discarded bottles, which it said met the company's quality and safety requirements. This prototype now remains in the drawer. According to Lego, extra steps in the production process mean that the CO2 emissions of the bricks are not reduced by the material. Recycled PET is just one of hundreds of different sustainable materials that Lego has tested, it was said from Billund. The group is currently testing and developing a range of alternative materials, including other recyclable plastics and those from other sources such as e-methanol, according to the statement. While media focus was on Joe Bidens decree putting a tiny plot of land within the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge off limits to oil and gas exploration, reporters ignored the bigger story. Bidens other proclamation forbids tapping more than 10 million acres within the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska, a 23-million-acre area on Alaskas North Slope. That is the area which should replenish the crude oil drawdown stemming from Bidens oil withdrawal from strategic wells established in case of war. Allowing new Alaska exploration would help our refineries, workers and state and local economies. Our states refineries are equipped with sophisticated safety and pollution control equipmentthe best in the world. ANWR is not the picturesque landscape you might imagine, with towering snow-capped peaks and lush green forests. It is 19 million acres of frozen desert which is larger than the states of Massachusetts, New Jersey, Hawaii, Connecticut and Delaware combined. Although the 1.5 million acres called the coastal plain were set aside for future leasing in 1980, drilling would occur on less than 2,000 acres. Thats like a small dot on an 8x 10 sheet of paper. The U.S. Geological Survey estimates this sliver of land contains at least 10.4 billion barrels of recoverable oil and 8.6 trillion of natural gas, and those estimates are probably conservative, the Wall Street Journal editorialized. By comparison, Alaskas second-biggest oil field, Kuparuk, holds about 2.5 billion barrels. Exploration and construction would take place during the winter, over roads built on sheets of ice. When the ice melts in the spring, the roads disappear. The crude, which is 12,000 feet below ground, would be extracted by a widely-used technique known as horizontal drilling. Production wells would be spaced roughly a dozen feet apart yet would reach out for miles in different directions underground. Washingtons five refineries provide nearly 4% of our nations processing capacity. Those refineries processed nearly 638,000 barrels of crude oil per day resulting in roughly 11 million gallons of gasoline, diesel and jet fuel. Alaska crude comes to our refineries in double-hulled ocean-going tankers. Tanker crews have extensive safety and response training. If federal leases in wildlife refuges seem unorthodox, they really are not. The National Audubon Society earned more than $25 million (2001 figure) in royalties by allowing oil and natural gas production in Louisianas Rainey Wildlife Refuge and Michigans Baker Sanctuary. In fact, a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service survey commissioned in 2001 reported 77 of 567 wildlife refuges in 22 states had oil and gas activities on their lands. Tapping into Alaskas National Petroleum Reserve is a safety net for America. Don C. Brunell is a business analyst, writer and columnist. He can be contacted at theBrunells@msn.com. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Its been a heck of a month for conspiracy theories. My social media feeds have been inundated by warnings about impending COVID lockdowns and mandates, wild claims about 9/11, supposed revelations of alien corpses, and, after Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman (D) debuted a new mustache, a fresh round of speculation that he uses a body double to conceal ongoing health struggles. Each outlandish story contributes to a broader ethos of conspiracism: a cynical and fearful mindset which frames everything around the assumption that the world is beset by a grand, secret evil and only a few know whats really going on. Neither conspiracist thinking nor belief in discrete conspiracy theories are anything new. But the social acceptability of such belief does seem to have grown in recent years. Some credit is due to the internet, of course, but I think theres a much more fundamental source: human search for meaning within our place in history. Were living in a time when religion is in decline, social bonds are weakening, and the humanities are devalued. This leaves us with a dwindling canon of storiesshared histories, parables, myths, and folktalesthat bind us together and inform a common moral vision. To cope, were retreating into ever-narrower interest groups, becoming more suspicious of one another, and searching for stories to make sense of evil, uncertainty, and suffering. Conspiracism offers just such a story. Regardless of concrete evidence, conspiracy theories can cut through our sense of unease and ambiguity with a grandiose, black-and-white narrative. They flatter true believers that theyre in on a secret and can change the world. In decades past, we dismissed anyone who indulged in theories about alien encounters, cryptids, or vast government conspiracies as a kook, and that social censure led most people to resist conspiracisms appeal. But today, with prominent champions like former president Donald Trump and Democratic presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., this thinking has gone mainstream. Conspiracism is often cast as an irrational, pseudo-religious mindset. Its true that it can fill a hole left by religion and, as former CT contributing editor Ed Stetzer has said, function as a train that runs on the tracks that religion has already put in place. But conspiracy theories as we know them are also fundamentally modern constructs, built on rigid logic and a linear view of history that depends on a post-Enlightenment spiritual imagination and is influenced by thinkers like Karl Marx. Article continues below A quick sketch of this intellectual lineage should begin with the successes of the Scientific Revolution, which recommended reason as the key to all sorts of social and political mysteries, just as it had unlocked mysteries of the natural world. Then, in the early 19th century, philosopher Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel proposed that history itself is a discernible process. Over generations, he said, society is progressing toward a utopian horizon, and humans can rationally perceive this pattern. After all, if we can map the courses of the planets and stars, why not the trajectories of nations? Its hard to overstate the influence of this idea, both for historians and would-be revolutionaries. Hegel is generally not considered an orthodox Christian, but he identified God as the author of historys plot. Marxs version, however, had no room for God at all. Taking up Hegels challenge to uncover the patterns that shape history, Marx argued that class struggle was visible at every inflection point. Treat class struggle like a mathematical constant, he contended, and not only did history make sense, so did the future. Time could be mapped with the rational certainty with which Nicolaus Copernicus and Galileo Galilei had mapped the movements of the planets. For Marx, though, it wasnt enough to discern the pattern of history; he wanted to actively accelerate historical progress toward his vision of freedom. Philosophers have hitherto only interpreted the world in various ways, Marx said. The point is to change it. That included the use of force, which he called the midwife of every old society pregnant with a new one. This idea that humans can discern, then manipulate, the course of historyon our own, without Godhas influenced Western political thinking ever since. Other ideologies have swapped race for class or enshrined different economic systems as the path to utopia, but have kept the underlying architecture of certainty, secret knowledge, and a consuming logic that can incorporate every fact or event it encounters. Conspiracism uses this architecture too. It assumes that conspirators are covertly working to change the worldand that conspiracy theorists can uncover those plots and stop them with a plan of their own. While conspiracy theories may appear absurd and superstitious, theyre actually a hyper-rationalist way of seeing the world, a demand for simple, causal explanations of encounters with evil and suffering. The conspiracist is hunting for a mathematical constant, something that can both account for the unseen forces that make life feel unstable and promise a utopian endingeven if its not Marxs workers paradise. Article continues below Ironically, this includes those on the far right who are convinced that only Trump can solve our problems, and the new Christian nationalists awaiting a Christian prince to inaugurate a national city of God. In this sense, with their simplistic keys to history, ontological certainty, and iron logic, these elements of the modern American Right are every bit the cultural Marxists as those they struggle against. Only their premises are different. And while this style of political ideology is a relatively recent phenomenon, the underlying desire to account for evil and suffering is not. It is the basic instinct of the Book of Jobbut Jobs conception of history and humanity is very different from that of Marx and his unlikely heirs. Job suffers not just uncertainty but tremendous loss. He insists on the injustice of his circumstances and demands his day in court before God, planning not only to defend himself but to put God in the dock for his alleged lack of concern for the suffering of the righteous: When a scourge brings sudden death, [God] mocks the despair of the innocent. When a land falls into the hands of the wicked, he blindfolds its judges. If it is not he, then who is it? (Job 9:2324) Jobs friends are sure hes wrong. Clearly, they say, hes done something to bring this suffering upon himself, because hes merely a man, and God is a righteous God. And yet, after God shows up and confronts Job, rejecting his accusations, he doesnt rebuke Job for speaking as he did. He rebukes Jobs friends for not speaking the truth as my servant Job has (42:8). Somehow, in his outcry, Job has managed to reach for things too great for him to grasp (42:3)and yet he also speaks the truth. Meanwhile, his friends, insisting on the rationality of the world, have made themselves liars. Their flattened conception of justice and simplistic assumption that they could discern what was happening made them wrong about Joband wrong about God. Article continues below As scholar Stephen Mitchell explains in the introduction to his poetic translation of the book, in Jobs friends arguments, humanity becomes that vermin, who laps up filth like water, and their god is revealed as a Stalinesque tyrant so pure that he mistrusts his angels / and heaven stinks in his nose. Ultimately, Mitchell continues, the dialogue is not about theological positions but human reactions. Afraid of any real contact with Job and his grief, the friends stay locked inside their own minds. The same arguments are recycled again and again, with more and more stridency. At its end, the Book of Job preemptively rejects the Marxist impulse behind many modern political ideologies and conspiracy theories. Our attempts to reduce history into simple cause-and-effect stories all shatter before the whirlwind. The point isnt that God is irrational or lacks a plan for history; its that we are limited in our capacity to make sense of what God is doing. Job wanted to understand evil and suffering, and God revealed that he couldnt even comprehend an ostrich or a wild donkey (39:13, 5). As the Catholic theologian G. K. Chesterton put it, Instead of proving to Job that it is an explicable world, [God] insists that it is a much stranger world than Job ever thought it was. We arent left without consolation, though. We have Job himself as a model of righteousness amid unexplained evil. Job picked a fight with God and demanded God answer his cry for justice. And God, in loving condescension, answered himby reducing Job to dust and ashes (42:6). At the heart of this encounter is a remarkable grace. What Job longed for, and what his friends offered in their distorted vision of justice, was answersthe very thing God refuses to give. And yet Job seems satisfied, humbled by the gap between what God knows and what he can know. It is a satisfaction that answers could never have providedone found only in the God of the whirlwind who showed a surprising grace when Job was drowning in his tears. That grace still operates today, of course. While we crave ideologies and conspiracy theories that make sense of a dark world, God still shows up in bewildering ways. Encountering him, even when it lays us low, can satisfy us far more deeply than any well-told story about directing our own destiny. Mike Cosper is the director of CT Media. Update (October 11, 2023): On the deadline for their self-deportation to Germany, the Romeikes were granted a year-long extension to stay in the US. The Christian homeschooling family met with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Knoxville, Tennessee, on Wednesday and signed an order of supervision to delay their deportation. The Home School Legal Defense Association says it will continue to advocate for their asylum or permanent residency. --------------- A Christian family who fled Germany to be able to homeschool their seven children say they now face deportation, 15 years after arriving in the United States and fighting for asylum. The Romeikes celebrated what their supporters called an incredible victory that can only be credited to our Almighty God in 2014, when they were allowed to remain in the US after years of court appeals. Their lawyer said the decision meant the family could stay without worries in the future. Yet earlier this month, Tennessee residents Uwe and Hannelore Romeike said they learned their deferred action status had been revoked during a check-in with immigration officials. They said their family was directed to obtain German passports and to prepare to self-deport by October 11, with no prior warning or explanation for the change. The Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA), an evangelical group that backed the Romeikes when they came to the US, has launched a campaign asking the government to reinstate their deferred action status. Their four oldest children are now adults, and two have married Americans. The Romeikes continue to homeschool their three youngest, including two daughters born in the US. Deportation to Germany will fracture these families, while exposing the Romeikes to renewed persecution in Germany, where homeschooling is still illegal in almost every case, said HSLDA. In Bissingen, located outside of Stuttgart, Germany, the Romeikes decided to educate their children at home because they opposed public school curricula (including sex education, evolution, and fairy tales) on religious grounds. Homeschooling is not legal in the country, though enforcement on the ban can vary by district. In 2006, the parents were threatened, fined $9,000, and had three of their kids escorted to school by police when they refused to send them, according to a court brief. They moved to the US in 2008. Their situation represented an unusual religious asylum case in the US, raising questions around whether homeschooling is a human right and if denying a family the opportunity to homeschool for faith reasons amounted to persecution. A Tennessee judge initially ruled in the Romeikes favor in 2010, but then the family repeatedly lost on appeal. The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously denied their asylum claims, saying, There is a difference between the persecution of a discrete group and the prosecution of those who violate a generally applicable law. Their case was denied review by the Supreme Court in 2014, but the following day, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) decided to let the family stay under an order of supervision and indefinite deferred action. Deferred action is not a legal immigration status, and it doesnt offer a pathway to citizenship, so its not ideal for people who plan to stay in the country permanently. Its something you want if you feel like you have no other options, said Lance Conklin, an immigration attorney who specializes in asylum cases. Deferred action, he said, can be granted for the government for any reason, most often to people who dont pose a risk to society and are not a priority for deportation. Its usually temporary, and at any time, the government can terminate deferred action and move forward with removing noncitizens from the country. The DACA programDeferred Action for Childhood Arrivalsis a type of deferred action. The tenuous nature of deferred action highlights one of many complexities of the US immigration system, said Robyn Brown, a lawyer who serves as the director of immigration programs for World Relief. Brown, speaking about immigration policy in general and not the Romeikes in particular, pointed out that many people cannot obtain permanent legal status through family sponsorship, employer sponsorship, or visas. And for those seeking hardship-based relief such as asylum, the narrow eligibility requirements can be difficult for applicants to understand and prove, and adjudication can take years, she said. The Romeikes dont want to uproot the lives theyve built in Morristown, Tennessee. We have been here for 15 years, thats most of the lives of our children. The youngest was three when we came, now shes 18. The oldest is now 26, Uwe Romeike told the National Review. Even for us as parents, in 15 years we have made many, many friends. Weve been involved in the same church for over a decade. Our home is here in America, in Tennessee. Uwe Romeike works as a piano accompanist at Carson-Newman University, a Baptist school in nearby Jefferson City. The Romeikes 25-year-old daughter Lydia is a photographer and vlogger with over 60,000 subscribers on YouTube. They try to do everything right for the last 15 years, tried to get deferred status, tried to work toward citizenship, and then all of a sudden theyre like, You gotta come back and work toward self-deportation, so really pray that that doesnt happen, said Lydias husband Trace Bates, in a video posted September 16, days after the birth of their first child and the Romeikes first grandchild. We really do pray that the Lord changes the heart of the people at the ICE department and the people higher up in the government. The US congresswoman for East Tennessee has filed a bill on the Romeikes behalf, which would allow them a path to citizenship through green card status. Its been deferred to the House Judiciary Committee and Subcommittee on Immigration, and HSLDA lobbied for support on Capitol Hill this week. The other hope for the Romeikes lies in the Biden administration, which could direct immigration officials to reinstate their deferred status and call off the directive to self-deport. The United States executive branch intervened once before to grant the Romeikes a respite, HSLDA said, and it has the power to do it again. Presidential hopeful Tim Scott honored with Christian Statesman award: 'An obvious choice' Republican Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., has received the annual Christian Statesman award for his commitment to upholding Christian values through his character and political career as he makes a bid for the presidency. The D. James Kennedy Center for Christian Statesmanship honored Scott with the 2023 Distinguished Christian Statesman Award. Following a ceremony on Sept. 19 at the JW Marriott Washington, D.C., Scott was presented with the award intended to honor his commitment to serving God. "We should stop and thank the Lord that we live in an America where any kid from any zip code can rise beyond their circumstances and achieve their version of the American Dream. That's possible because our founding fathers crafted a country based on a rock, the Lord God," the 58-year-old senator said during his acceptance speech. "We have troubles. We have challenges. We have things that make us fearful in this nation, but remember greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world." In an interview with The Christian Post, Rob Pacienza, senior pastor of Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church and CEO of D. James Kennedy Ministries, said leaders who publicly profess faith in Christ are considered for the award. Past award recipients included Lt. Governor Winsome Earle-Sears in 2022, Rep. Vicki Hartzler in 2021 and Rep. Bob McEwen in 2020. D. James Kennedy, the organization's founder, alongside the board of directors, established the annual award in 1996 to promote Christian values and honor the men and women who publicly live out their faith. The senior pastor explained that the award often goes to members of Congress. However, a few governors have received the award. Pacienza said that Scott is vocal about his faith and has lived by his Christian values throughout his political career, which dates back to the 1990s when he served on the Charleston County Council. In 2009, Scott began serving in the South Carolina state legislature. Two years after that in 2011, he became a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. In 2013, he was appointed to the U.S. Senate by his Republican primary competitor, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley. "Just looking at his voting record and what he stood for, standing for God's design for marriage and family, protecting the life of the unborn, and also protecting religious liberty in this nation," Pacienza said. "We felt like it was an obvious choice." D. James Kennedy Center for Christian Statesmanship selected and voted on Scott as the recipient of the award before he announced his presidential candidacy in May, according to Pacienza. As a pastor, Pacienza said that he does not publicly endorse one presidential candidate over another. Still, he clarified that Scott is one of the candidates he would recommend Christians support. Scott sits in sixth place in the RealClearPolitics average of Republican nomination polling as of Thursday morning and participated in Wednesday night's Fox Business debate. "I always say, look at a person's platform, look at their voting record, look at what they stand for," Pacienza said. "And I would certainly encourage Christians across the country to support Tim Scott." "I think his personal life and his personal values and his political career have certainly demonstrated that he supports the Judeo-Christian values that led to the founding of America and the freedoms that we have experienced for over 200 years and counting," he said. "So, I would definitely encourage Christians everywhere to support him." The organization's website declares that it exists "for the purposes of training and equipping present and future political leaders in the areas of evangelism and statesmanship." A brochure explains that the group accomplishes this by hosting lectures and other special events. Pacienza said that the center is looking to reach members of Congress and their staff or interns working in their offices. For interns, the organization hosts lunches to support them and provide them with a vision for Christian statesmanship on Capitol Hill. The center equips staffers with aspirations to run for office by providing them with an opportunity to attend seminars and lectures with leaders throughout the country as they contemplate their career path, Pacienza added. "We want to equip them to think holistically about the Christian life, particularly their calling on Capitol Hill," Pacienza said. Since the center's founding in 1995, the senior pastor estimated that the organization has helped around 750 leaders, including congressional leaders, staff and interns, by equipping them to serve through its resources. By 2024, the organization plans to release a white paper to serve as a resource for political leaders on "hot-button issues," Pacienza told CP. The report will help lawmakers think about these issues from a biblical worldview. "How do we think about economics? How do we think about race and justice? How do we think about prison reform?" he asked. "How do we think about immigration and the sanctity of human life all from a biblical perspective?" D. James Kennedy Ministries has another ministry called Providence Forum, which develops curriculum and resources that detail America's founding from a Christian perspective. Donations to support the ministry's efforts come from partners throughout the country, Pacienza said. However, all of the ministry's outreach events and resources are free to people on Capitol Hill. "We want this to be our way of saying that we are here; we're not asking for anything," Pacienza said. "We're not lobbying for anything. We're here as a Christian outreach to support Christians and their staff on Capitol Hill." Candace Owens spars with 'demon possessed' sex worker who rejected her prayer Candace Owens recently sparred with a sex worker she said seemed to be possessed by a demon and tried to trigger her by discussing her marriage. In a recent episode of her podcast, the 34-year-old author, who is also a wife and mother, discussed how she recently appeared on the Whatever podcast as part of her press tour for the Daily Wire series "Convicting a Murderer." During the podcast, she debated with several sex workers about whether its appropriate for women to prostitute themselves. Tensions escalated as Owens challenged one sex worker who suggested she actually saves marriages by fulfilling mens unconventional sexual desires. I honestly felt like, and I never say this, that she was possessed by a demon, Owens said. She really was. And she was growing frustrated in me remaining logical and explaining to her that obviously, her career was going to follow her for the rest of her life. And she tried to, I guess, trigger me as she was explaining how she saves marriages and she tried to trigger me by creating a what if scenario regarding my own husband. The 22-year-old sex worker presented a hypothetical scenario in which Owens husband approached her with unconventional sexual desires, questioning the implications for the relationship. If you are not going to be acceptant with your partner if he comes to you and is like, Hey, I really like getting p--ed. I want you to p-- me. And you're like, Ew. that's so disgusting. Like, I would never do that. You want me to [expletive], I would never do that. Well then, OK, what are you going to do, divorce him? Or what are you going to do? Realistically? the sex worker asked. Obviously disgusted, Owens said she believed such behaviors might indicate a divergence into a "perverse world," possibly influenced by external factors like pornography. It would probably indicate to me that my husband was involved in some perverse world, whether it was through pornography, that something else was happening on the side. These aren't normal things that people just think of when they wake up, the conservative author said. Reflecting on the interaction, Owens said, What was weird about that is suddenly it seemed like she was suffering from a demonic possession. Like she was just a Chucky doll. And she was just trying to say the most perverse thing that she could possibly say to trigger me. But instead of feeling triggered Owens said she felt disturbed that a 22-year-old was even coming up with this concept. She pointed out that while the young woman sees her involvement in sex work as purely a choice and a source of income, its actually a cry for help and a sign of deeper issues. I realized that her entire reality had been warped because she works in a brothel and she sees up to 10 clients per day," Owens said. "And you have to imagine that she thinks that this must represent what all men are like. It never occurred to her that actually, she is seeing the most debased, pathetic men that are in this society today. She is seeing men who have drug addiction. She is seeing men who have a sex addiction. She is seeing men who have gone so far into their perversions that they might actually be requesting this from her. It is not the average man that goes into a brothel. Later in the podcast, the sex worker detailed her lucrative earnings from the industry, almost half a million dollars annually, she claimed. Owens lamented that society has become numb to sexual perversion and that sex workers can justify their behavior due to their earnings. This is why I spend so much time talking about perversity, talking about pornography, talking about the ills, not just of graphic pornography, which her mind is utterly polluted by because it's a form of her every single day, it's a facet of her every single day, but also the soft pornography that we have all become accustomed to, the pornography that we see when we scroll Instagram, Owens said. And you have Instagram models with their butt cheeks and their chests out. This is the stuff that is desensitizing us, right? It is desensitizing all of us. We're all victims to it. I say this all the time when I see an ad, I don't even flinch because we have become accustomed to seeing it everywhere. It's leading to women that are quite literally prostituting themselves in and out because they know that they can make a quick buck, and you can do that, it's true. Owens revealed that at the end of the interview, she offered to pray for the possessed sex workers, but the young woman "rejected the prayer on the show. She said she didn't want me to pray for her. What kind of person rejects a prayer? You might not believe in prayers. You might not pray yourself, but if any person walked up to me, no matter what phase they were in, and they said that they were going to pray for me, I wouldn't reject it, she said. I think that what the 'Whatever' podcast taught me is that we are definitely facing a possession in America. People are possessed by the concept of fame. We are possessed by perversions; we are possessed by sexuality. And all of these things are destroying people's souls, honestly, genuinely. And when I left that podcast, I still prayed for those young women because I think they need it. Practicing Christians more likely to be 'spiritually open' than non-Christians, study finds As America's religious landscape grows more syncretic and the population's connection to Christianity continues to weaken, data from a recent Barna study shows that practicing Christians are more spiritually "open" or interested in exploring other spiritual traditions than non-Christians or Christians who don't practice their faith. In its "Spiritually Open" project based on a survey of 2,005 U.S. adults and teenagers ages 13-17 conducted online from December 1322, 2022, The Barna Group created a four-point scale to define the term "spiritually open." The definition encompassed several factors, including belief in a spiritual or supernatural dimension of life, belief in God or a higher power, positive feelings toward spirituality, and self-described spirituality that is "open," "exploring," or "curious." The study found that among practicing Christians, 42% had a high degree of spiritual openness, 47% had a moderate degree of openness, and 11% had a low degree of openness. "Openness and Christianity are highly correlated, especially among the one in five adults who are practicing Christians (meaning they attend church regularly and say their faith is very important to them," Barna researchers said. Among non-practicing Christians, only 36% had a high degree of openness, while 43% had a moderate degree. Some 21% had a low degree of openness. Non-Christians were found to have the least degree of spiritual openness. Only 18% were found to have a high degree of openness, 30% had a moderate degree of openness, and more than half, 52%, expressed a low degree of openness. "While a general spiritual openness leaves ample room for Christian beliefs about God, it is clearly not exclusive. This tracks with spiritually open non-Christians' confidence that many religions can lead to eternal life (43% strongly agree)," Barna noted in its most recent analysis of non-Christian beliefs. Researchers highlighted evidence that suggests the current community of spiritually open non-Christians includes a sizeable community of former Christians who still value "a personal commitment to Jesus" they made in the past or present. "Some of the patterns in non-Christians' beliefs relate not only with their general spiritual openness but their specific connection to the faith or to Jesus in the past or present. We've noted that many spiritually open non-Christians have a Christian background," explained Barna. "In fact, two in five spiritually open non-Christians (39%) say they have made a personal commitment to Jesus that is still important to them, something that is rare among other non-Christians (13%)." Even though affiliation with Christianity has been on the decline, 72% of people in America still say they were raised as Christian, and that cultural upbringing continues to bear some significance. "Those in the Church can't assume they are the only ones for whom certain Christian beliefs hold deep and personal meaning," researchers wrote. "The spiritually open non-Christian tends to trust that Jesus is real, important, and sacred; for what purpose, they are less certain." In an earlier report this year, Barna CEO David Kinnaman painted the growing openness to other faiths in America as a cause for hope. "Though religious affiliation and church attendance continue to decline, spiritual openness and curiosity are on the rise. Across every generation, in fact, we see an unprecedented desire to grow spiritually, a belief in a spiritual/supernatural dimension and a belief in God or a higher power," Kinnaman noted. The Barna CEO said one of the most inspiring features of the open generation for him is based on findings from "The Open Generation" study, which show that "young people may be fueling this rise in spiritual hunger." "Overwhelmingly, Christian teens today say that Jesus still matters to them; 76 percent say 'Jesus speaks to me in a way that is relevant to my life. In a culture that has generally downgraded the reputation of Christians and relegated Sunday worship and other church-related activities to the sidelines of society, teens remain refreshingly open to Jesus as an influence in their lives," Kinnaman said. "They are open to different faiths, including Christianity, and they're open to friends, causes, and ideas," he added. "Though parents, educators, and others who mentor young people have a tall task to provide wise guidance to emerging adults, today's teens are confronting the church with something that I think we haven't seen before a kind of blank slate; a chance to imagine a different future." George Barna, the founder of The Barna Group who now serves as director of research at the Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University, argued in a report in May that the growing rejection of a biblical worldview remains a threat to the general quality of life in a post-pandemic world, especially for children. "The ideological and philosophical confusion that characterizes America is perhaps the biggest reflection of the nation's rejection of biblical principles and its decision to replace God's truth with 'personal truth,'" Barna argued. "As a nation, we may be past the danger of COVID-19, but we are in the thick of the danger brought about by people relying upon syncretism as their dominant worldview," Barna said. "Biblical churches must see this as a time for an urgent response to the direction society is taking. While the Left pursues the Great Reset, it is time for the Church to pursue the Great Renewal leading people's hearts, minds, and souls back to God and His life principles." 'No light at the end of the tunnel': Future of Christians in Syria, Lebanon under threat A "mass exodus" of "desperate" Christians from Syria and Lebanon is threatening the future presence of the faith in the two countries, a church leader has warned. The 2023 Religious Freedom in the World Report by Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) shows how the Christian population in Syria fell from 6.31% of the population to 3.84% between 2016 and 2021. Estimates about the number of Christians in Lebanon vary but the CIA Factbook currently puts their proportion of the population at around a third (32.4%). This is below figures cited by a 2010 report by the U.S. State Department estimating Christians in Lebanon to be over 40% at the time. Melkite Greek Catholic Patriarch Youssef Absi told ACN that Christians in the Middle East are leaving their homelands despite appeals from the Church to remain. He told the Catholic charity that Christians "no longer have confidence in their country" and "there is no light at the end of the tunnel." Both Syria and Lebanon have been hit hard by extreme economic hardship and the pandemic. Syria's problems have been compounded by an ongoing civil war. It has been hard to give Christians hope, especially as the situation has not improved, Patriarch Absi explained. "There have always been waves of emigration. Nowadays it is a mix of economic, social and political reasons," he said. "We are still doing everything possible to help our faithful, to provide them with essential services. But we cannot replace the governments. "There is no light at the end of the tunnel, we do not see a short-term solution. "Without support we can no longer convince them to stay." He is calling on the West to lift sanctions against Syria that he says are negatively impacting the general population. "I think that our friends can exert pressure in one way or another on their governments, and sometimes even on the religious leaders, to help in this direction or to ensure that the sanctions are lifted," he said. Evangelist and wife had big plans to spread the Gospel, now both are charged in child rape case Sword of the Lord Publishers, a Christian publishing ministry in Tennessee that rented a building to the ministry of evangelist and father of six, Benjamin Garlick, who was recently arrested and charged with several counts of child rape, said they were shocked by the allegations against the preacher who has been saved since age 5, and had big plans to spread the Gospel in the Hispanic community. Court documents cited by WGNS Radio said earlier this month that Garlick, 32, was charged with five counts of aggravated rape of a child, five counts of aggravated sexual battery of a minor who was under the age of 13, one count of soliciting sexual exploitation of a minor who was under the age of 13, and one count of continuous sexual abuse of a child. The abuse allegedly began in February of 2021. The pastors wife, Shaantal Garlick, 29, was also charged with one count of facilitation of aggravated rape of a child and one count of aggravated child abuse or endangerment to a child aged 8 and younger. The husband and wife were both arraigned by Circuit Court Judge Barry Tidwell on Tuesday. Mary Katherine Hughes a spokesperson for the Christian publisher, which has existed to partner with those who are fundamentally and biblically like-minded to promote revival and soul winning within our local churches since 1934, confirmed with The Christian Post on Wednesday that La Espada, a Murfreesboro-based ministry for Spanish speakers that Garlick helped run, was served an eviction notice on Aug. 29 for not paying rent to Sword of the Lord Publishers. When asked how long La Espada had been paying rent to Sword of the Lord Publishers to use the building located at 214 Bridge Ave in Murfreesboro, Hughes said she didnt know because she is kind of new with the company. She also insisted that there was no relationship between Sword of the Lord Publishers and La Espada. We didnt have any relationship with the ministry. The ministries are not related, they were simply renting the building, Hughes told CP. I dont know how long they were there. Im kind of new here but we were just as shocked as anything, she said before referring CP to a statement the company released last Thursday on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. ALL children are a gift from God, and to harm one of them in any fashion is a gross sin and punishable by law. We are shocked and saddened by the news of the abuse of a child anytime, anywhere, the statement said. Children, all children, are precious and deserve the full protection of all of us. As a proponent for the safety of children (pre-born and born), we recommend to all pastors, ministry leaders, and everybody else, If you see something, say something, the Christian publisher noted. Report any suspicious criminal activities against children to your local authorities. If a child is in immediate danger, call 911. If you are unsure of your local helpline, call 1.800.4.A. CHILD for guidance. Although La Espadas website is not currently functional, information from cached pages of the website which go all the way back to 2001, shows that Benjamin Garlick has worked for the ministry under the direction of his late father Daniel Garlick, who died in May 2020, since at least 2015. At one point he was based in Ontario, California. A cached bio page for Benjamin Garlick and his wife on the ministrys website shows that La Espada was started by the itinerant preachers grandfather, Rolando Garlick. I have a great spiritual heritage . My grandfather, Rolando Garlick, began the ministry of La Espada and he had a tremendous impact on my life, the young preacher wrote. He said that almost as soon as he was born on July 9, 1991, he began traveling with his father and learned to love ministry. I was saved at the age of five in South Texas. One Sunday I went to church with my dad, the preacher talked about my need for a Savior what he said, so I started asking my dad what it meant. He explained to me about God's gift to me and there in the car with my family, I accepted Jesus as my Savior, Benjamin Garlick recalled. When I was eight years old, I went on a trip with my dad to a conference, someone else had preached about following God's call in his life. God began to work in my Heart. One night I asked my dad: how do you know if God calls you to preach or not. He explained to me that God's call is simply the desire to preach. I had been reading my Bible and found this verse, he said, pointing to 2 Timothy 4:2 which says, Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine. These words had a great impact on me, and just like my dad, I dedicated myself to preaching the word of God. And from this day, I began to preach as an evangelist. Please pray for me to continue serving our Lord, he wrote. Shaantal Garlick who also tells her story of growing up in a Christian home and recalled how she decided to accept Jesus as my only Savior in April 2001. She said she really didnt know what God had in store for her until she met her future husband at a youth conference, and he swept her off her feet into ministry and became her prince charming. At the age of 15, I went to my church's annual Youth Conference and there God called me to surrender my life to Him full-time. I really didn't know what God had in store for me until I met my prince charming, Benjamin Garlick at the age of 18 during another youth conference, she wrote. I grew in Christ and God showed me through him that my calling is to serve him full time, with my beloved husband, Benjamin, and work with La Espada to reach the Hispanic world with the gospel of Christ, Shaantal Garlick added. It appears that Benjamin Garlick did not maintain his role as his wifes prince charming because last month she filed for an order of protection against him. The couples bio page on laespada.org also listed Franklin Road Baptist Church in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, as their sending church, but Assistant Pastor Joel Norris told CP in an interview Wednesday that the listing was incorrect. A sending church, according to Encompass World Partners, partners with its missionaries to provide spiritual, pastoral, and sometimes financial support. What I can tell you is that neither Benjamin nor Shaantal were members of our church during the arrest or for several years before, said Norris who added that he knew Benjamin Garlick but [on] a very surface level and just in passing. When pressed to explain the pastors relationship with the church a bit more clearly, Norris said Garlick was a member of the church in his teenage years and perhaps briefly as an adult but as far as he was aware, he was more connected to a church in California as an adult. Norris also explained that Franklin Road Baptist Church was the sending church for La Espada at some point prior to Garlick taking over the ministry, but they had cut ties with the ministry as far back as 2015-2016 over some operational differences. Despite not being involved with La Espada, Norris said Franklin Road Baptist Church began providing support to Garlicks six children after learning about the charges against him. What we have done as a church is we believe anything of this sort of wickedness and magnitude is wrong and evil and if found guilty, should be prosecuted, Norris told CP. We will not stand for anything like that in our church, or on our property. And we have been, really, by the grace of God, given an opportunity prior to any of these allegations, to have separated some. What we are seeking to do is help the children who are going through all of this. We've sought to help them during this time, he said. If a website says that [we are connected to La Espada] or whatever, we have written documentation here [showing] that we arent. Vivek Ramaswamy: Transgenderism is a 'mental health disorder' During the Republican presidential debate Wednesday night, political newcomer Vivek Ramaswamy called transgenderism a "mental health disorder" as multiple candidates promised to ban gender transition surgeries for minors if elected president. Ramaswamy, a 38-year-old entrepreneur and one of seven candidates who faced off in the Fox Business presidential primary debate, addressed the hot-button issue of gender transition surgeries for minors by declaring "transgenderism, especially in kids, is a mental health disorder." Ramaswamy's comment came in response to a question from moderator Dana Perino asking if he would work to pass a federal law to protect parental rights, specifically by requiring schools to keep parents informed if their children identify as a member of the opposite sex. The advocacy group Parents Defending Education estimates that more than 1,000 school districts have policies that "openly state that district personnel can or should keep a student's transgender status hidden from parents." Ramaswamy replied to Perino's question by proclaiming, "Parents have the right to know," implying that he would support a federal effort to prevent schools from hiding information about a student's gender identity from their parents. He insisted that "it is not compassionate to affirm a kid's confusion," adding, "That is not compassion, that is cruelty." Ramaswamy elaborated on the long-term impacts of gender transition surgeries for minors by recalling his conversations with "two young women" who had undergone such procedures only to regret them later on and revert to identifying with their biological sex. He noted that both women underwent double mastectomies, and one of them had a hysterectomy, lamenting that she "will never have children." "The fact that we allowed that to happen in this country is barbaric," he asserted. He vowed to "ban genital mutilation or chemical castration" for minors if elected president. More than 50% of kids with gender dysphoria have considered suicide. And yet politicians reject a law that would require schools to inform parents if their kids change their gender identity at school. Parents have a right to know about their kids: that shouldnt be controversial. pic.twitter.com/AzvT2Pq8Om Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) September 28, 2023 Ramaswamy doubled down on his assertion on social media. "More than 50% of kids with gender dysphoria have considered suicide. And yet politicians reject a law that would require schools to inform parents if their kids change their gender identity at school," he wrote in a post on X. "Parents have a right to know about their kids: that shouldn't be controversial. Ban genital mutilation & puberty blockers before age 18. Treat gender dysphoria as a mental health disorder. Time to empower parents again." Former Vice President Mike Pence echoed Ramaswamy's calls for federal action to protect parental rights and prevent minors from obtaining gender transition surgeries. "We're going to stand up for the rights of parents and we're going to pass a federal ban on transgender chemical or surgical surgery anywhere in the country," the former Indiana governor said. "We've got to protect our kids from this radical gender ideology." Nearly half of the U.S. states have passed laws prohibiting some or all of the controversial procedures for minors: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah and West Virginia. Ramaswamy discussed some of the long-term impacts of gender transition surgeries on minors. One of the women he referred to in his remarks, Chloe Cole, has outlined the long-term consequences of the procedures she obtained as a minor in a lawsuit against the medical professionals who encouraged her to make life-altering changes to her body. Cole contended that the so-called "gender-affirming care" she received left her with "deep physical and emotional wounds, severe regrets, and distrust of the medical system." In a notice of intent to sue filed last year, Cole detailed how she experienced suicidal thoughts and a deteriorating state of mental health following her double mastectomy. The frequent prescription of puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones to trans-identified youth has also become a cause for concern. Jamie Reed, a whistleblower who formerly worked at the Transgender Center at St. Louis Children's Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, explained that a girl prescribed testosterone suffered from severe bleeding. "Because testosterone thins the vaginal tissues, her vaginal canal had ripped open," Reed wrote in an op-ed for The Free Press. "She had to be sedated and given surgery to repair the damage. She wasn't the only vaginal laceration case we heard about," she added. Reed's assertions prompted Missouri's attorney general to investigate the clinic. Earlier this month, the Transgender Center announced that it was no longer providing puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones in light of a newly passed state law banning such procedures. The American College of Pediatricians has identified additional side effects of cross-sex hormones as "an increased risk of heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, blood clots and cancers across their lifespan" while warning that puberty blockers can cause "osteoporosis, mood disorders, seizures, cognitive impairment and, when combined with cross-sex hormones, sterility." Julie Chen Moonves details radical conversion Christianity, why she'll only pursue faith-based projects Julie Chen Moonves has an impressive, decades-long career in the mainstream media, serving as a co-anchor of "The Early Show" on CBS and hosting Big Brother. But after a radical conversion to Christianity just a few years ago, shes committed to only participating in projects that glorify God and proclaim His name. I have let it be known that I don't want to take on any other projects unless it is faith-based, Chen Moonves told The Christian Post. Im not interested in doing another daily talk show unless it's a faith-based one. God has blessed me with the various jobs that I've had in my life so that now, moving forward, any job that I have, any platform that I have, I want to use it to advance His Kingdom agenda, to spread the Word. I don't want to spend time doing anything unless it's in the faith space. And her path to faith hasnt exactly been conventional. In an interview with CP, Chen Moonves, who details her journey to Christianity in her new audiobook, But First, God: An Audio Memoir of Spiritual Discovery, shared that, though loosely Catholic, her family didn't attend church, as her mother wanted her children to choose their own faith. She attended a Catholic High School, but it was merely an alternative when she didn't make it to Bronx High School of Science. During her younger years, she would pray, but it was often repetitive and influenced by what she saw on TV. There was always a little bit of Christianity around me, but it was more Catholicism, and everything I did was rote, she recalled. In 2018, Chen Moonves went through personal turmoil after her husband, Leslie Moonves, whom she wed in 2004, resigned from CBS amid allegations of sexual misconduct. Moonves, 73, has denied the allegations from multiple women. Just over a week later, Chen Moonves, who shares a son with her husband, announced her exit as moderator of "The Talk," the network's daytime program she'd hosted since 2009. Around this dark time, Chen Moonves received an email from her aunt, a born-again Christian, who told her a friend had been praying for her. She said the Holy Spirit touched her to have my aunt reach out to me to let me know this. And I couldn't believe that this woman that I don't know, I've never met, was praying for me and my family, she recalled. That email prompted me to go to church that morning; it was a Thursday morning, and I dropped my son off at school that morning and I drove straight to one of the three churches not far from my house, she recalled. And it's pretty amazing that before 9 a.m. the doors were open, and I went in and I just was by myself and I got down on my knees and I started praying and opening up my heart to God asking for help. Chen Moonves began attending virtual Bible studies and services over Zoom due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, immersing herself in Scripture. Two years after that encounter, she made a decision to be baptized. I realized Christianity is about a personal relationship with God, she said. It all came together through various people in my life, whether it was my aunt or former cameraman who sent me a study Bible or my former college roommate who sent me Hope for Today by Billy Graham. I saw that Christianity was about being saved; it wasn't about being judged or punished. It was about being saved and having hope in life. Thats what really made me run towards Christianity. If you told me six years ago, like prior to when I turned 48, that this would be me, I would say you're crazy, she added. Today, Chen Moonves life looks completely different than it did several years ago. Work, my career, used to be my false idol, she shared. It came first, above everything else. I lived a fast-paced life, I was frazzled. I didnt have peace, but I thought that was normal. Today, I don't sweat the small stuff. I appreciate my job, but God comes first. I have this serenity about me that I've just never had before. No matter what comes my way, I know God either ordained it or allowed it. It's a matter of time, but Hell work it out for good. I just don't fret and I don't worry like I used to. Its her faith, she said, that allows her to refrain from bitterness and forgive those who turned their backs on her at her lowest moment in 2018. Now, she's able to view those past adversities as blessings that led her to God. Its straight from Scripture: If I expect God to forgive me for all my sins, I have to grant forgiveness, she said. I also realize, it's never really about you. If someone does something, and maybe they're acting out of hurt, it has absolutely nothing to do with you. The truth is, if that situation didn't happen to me, I'm not so sure I would have found God when I did. I needed something drastically to change in my life for me to stop and hear Him. So it actually was a blessing. The multi-hyphenate, who today hosts a faith-based Instagram show titled God 101, said her conversion has been met with warmth and acceptance from those around her. The recent pandemic, she said, has nudged many toward spirituality, making them more receptive to conversations about faith. I think that there is this fear that exists that Hollywood is very hostile towards Christianity, but I have to say, every situation I've been in with people receiving the news that I am a devout Christian, has been received with excitement, she reflected. At the end of the day, what they're hearing and seeing is, I found God, and who could poopoo that? She shared how her spiritual transformation has also permeated her family life, offering calmness, peaceful resolutions and a more faith-focused upbringing for her son. Every morning before I take him to school, he reads the kids version of Jesus Calling to me, she said. I ask him, What did you read? What did you get out of what you read? He goes to church with me on Sundays. It's brought a lot more peace into our daily life as a family and to me as a parent. By sharing her story, Chen Moonves hopes others realize that its never too late to find God or start a relationship with Him. Her motive, she said, is to inspire listeners to either invite God into their lives or strengthen their existing bond with Him. It is never too late to start a relationship with God; I didn't start until I was 48, she said. I want the Word of God to not be intimidating, and I want people to draw closer to Him. The Bible says to draw near to God, and He will draw near to you, and when that happens, you look at the world with a whole new perspective, and nothing can rattle you. You really learn how to live without fear because you have trust in the Lord. I want to show people what God has done for me. Over 90% of voters say sexual content in 'Gender Queer' is 'inappropriate' for school libraries More than 90% of registered voters said the sexual descriptions and illustrations in the book Gender Queer, which is stocked at some public school libraries, are inappropriate for students as debates continue throughout the country over the types of books children have access to in libraries. Gender Queer is a graphic novel by author Maia Kobabe, who identified as non-binary, and its sexually explicit content has elicited strong reactions from parents and several political leaders. The book details Kobabes struggles with gender confusion and contains graphic descriptions of various sex acts. The Republican polling firm WPA Intelligence provided The Christian Post with its new poll on Wednesday. Its survey shows that 93% of people said the images of oral sex in Gender Queer were inappropriate for youth, and 91% said the same about pictures of finger penetration and sticking objects in ones rectum. Another 91% of respondents said they thought the descriptions of two boys engaging in sexual activities, a boy fantasizing about sexual acts, and another page describing a man touching his genitals were inappropriate. Political views appeared to play a part in how respondents viewed the book's content. Unlike Republicans, only 81% of Democrats said they thought the books depiction of two boys engaging in sexual activities was inappropriate. Republicans were also more likely to say that books like Gender Queer should not be in school libraries. As for people aged 55 to 64, they were more likely to say the books sexual content was not appropriate for school libraries. Fourteen percent of people in the same age group said the section of the book about inserting things into ones rectum was inappropriate, compared to only 8% of people aged 18 to 35 who said the same. However, the majority of all groups regardless of one's race, age or sex said Gender Queers content was inappropriate for school libraries. Professional activists are calling these book bans, but there has to be a line on what does or doesnt go in a school library, and this material isnt even a grey area, WPA Intelligence Vice President Matt Knee told The Daily Wire. As weve seen, this is the kind of material people cant even describe on the news or public meetings. Practically no one including the overwhelming majority of Democrats believes this content is appropriate for public school libraries, he added. In an interview earlier this month with The Washington Post, the author of Gender Queer reacted to Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., reading from a section of the book during a Senate hearing. The hearing was centered around ongoing debates about efforts to prohibit school libraries from stocking books that promote sexual promiscuity and pedophilia and whether these efforts should be considered a book ban. While Kobabe argued that the senator purposefully read from a section of the book that he thought would be the most shocking, she added that Gender Queer is not intended for children. She said many assume its a childrens book because of its comic book format. Gender Queer is a comic, and in full color, but that doesnt mean its for children, Kobabe said during the WaPo interview. I originally wrote it for my parents, and then for older teens who were already asking these questions about themselves. I dont recommend this book for kids! At the hearing, titled Book Bans: Examining How Censorship Limits Liberty and Literature, Kennedy read excerpts from All Boys Arent Blue and Gender Queer. I got a new strap-on harness today. I cant wait to put it on you, Kennedy read aloud from Gender Queer. 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. The book Gender Queer has been the source of controversy due to its availability in certain school libraries. In 2021, the parent of a student in Fairfax County Public Schools in Virginia read aloud from Gender Queer and another book titled Lawn Boy. A school board member suggested that its OK for high school students to have access to the books, including ones promoting pedophilia. The mother asserted that pornography is offensive to all people, adding that its also offensive to common decency. The WPA Intelligence poll surveyed 1,005 registered voters from Sept.15-18. US Commerce Department Re-Launches Center for Faith-Based Partnerships U.S. Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker announced Friday the re-launch of its Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships for promotion of partnerships between businesses and community- and faith-based organizations aimed at job creation and economic growth. The Center, one of 13 federal agency offices under the White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships, is housed within the Office of the Secretary, the Department of Commerce said in a statement. Pritzker said she is "excited" to announce the new strategic direction the Center, which "plays an important role in connecting Commerce to local communities and ensuring the Department's "Open for Business Agenda" expands opportunity for all Americans." The Center will help the Department of Commerce to achieve its mission of "promoting job creation, economic growth, sustainable development and improved standards of living for all Americans by working in partnership with businesses, universities, communities and our nation's workers," Pritzker added. On March 30, the Center co-hosted Business Sunday at the Nineteenth Street Baptist Church in Washington, D.C. to provide business leaders from congregations and communities around the country with the federal resources they need to start and grow their companies. Business Sunday is a collaboration between the Minority Business Development Agency and the Small Business Administration to help connect people to valuable technical assistance, grant information and other resources. The Center has created Commerce's first-ever "Community Development Resource Toolkit," to help community-based organizations to utilize Department programs aimed at local-level economic development. The Center now plans to start a "Commerce in the Community" blog series highlighting "the many ways in which local business, nonprofit and religious leaders are partnering with Commerce to make a positive impact at the local level." The Center will also begin a series of events in various places this summer to connect communities with Department programs and resources, as well as promote local partnerships around skills and workforce development. "Commerce's Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships plays an important role in our community development efforts by helping businesses and nonprofits work together to grow the economy and create jobs," Melissa Rogers, executive director of the White House Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, said in the statement. "We are looking forward to collaborating with our colleagues at Commerce to build ladders of opportunity for all Americans." The White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships works to form partnerships between government at all levels and nonprofit organizations, both secular and faith-based, to more effectively serve Americans in need. Nikki Haley's 2024 Presidential Run, See You At The Pole Hopes To Reach Gen Z, Astronaut Jose Hernandez On God Calling Him To Space link to download the audio instead. link to download the audio instead. 06:22 06:22 Top headlines for Thursday, September 28, 2023 In this week's episode, an in-depth look at Nikki Haley, former South Carolina Governor and U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., who is seeking the Republican nomination for the 2024 Presidential elections. Learn about the five things you should know about her. We also discuss a global ministry effort aimed at reconnecting Gen Z with their faith through initiatives like school flagpole prayers. Lastly, we review 'A Million Miles Away', a film showcasing the awe-inspiring journey of Jose Hernandez, a migrant worker turned astronaut, who attributes his success to a divine calling. Subscribe to this Podcast Follow Us on Social Media Get the Edifi App Subscribe to Our Newsletter Links to the News Top headlines for Thursday, September 28, 2023 In this week's episode, an in-depth look at Nikki Haley, former South Carolina Governor and U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., who is seeking the Republican nomination for the 2024 Presidential elections. Learn about the five things you should know about her. We also discuss a global ministry effort aimed at reconnecting Gen Z with their faith through initiatives like school flagpole prayers. Lastly, we review 'A Million Miles Away', a film showcasing the awe-inspiring journey of Jose Hernandez, a migrant worker turned astronaut, who attributes his success to a divine calling. Why every Christian should strive to know God holistically Every Christian knows that God exists and believes in Him. But our knowledge of Him is so fragmented given our different belief systems. A lack of a full view of Gods image and attributes is responsible for diverse opinions among Christians. Knowing God in full and not just in part is the best thing that can happen to any Christian. The people who know their God shall be strong and carry out great exploits (Daniel 11:32). A partial knowledge of who God is and what He does is responsible for our inability to be complete in Him. Understanding the triune God is essential in helping us appreciate God the Father as the originator of our salvation, God the Son as the Savior, and God the Holy Spirit as our comforter. How we relate with God depends on our knowledge of Him. Our character and obedience is also a reflection of the degree of knowledge of God in us. Partial obedience in the lives of believers is a product of partial knowledge of who God is. My people are being destroyed because they dont know me (Hosea 4:16). Serving God with partial knowledge will inevitably lead to destruction. Many Christians who know God only as a loving and merciful God never care about His punishment and anger. Some get so familiar with Him and tend to disrespect Him without knowing it. Fear of God which is the beginning of wisdom is no longer found in the lives of many Christians today. Jesus has given us a recommendation which we must intentionally strive to attain if we desire to have eternal life: And this is the way to have eternal life to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth (John 17:3). We should commence our journey to eternal relationship with God by knowing Him holistically here on this earth with the hope that we would be found worthy when the trumpet sounds. Knowledge of God leads to spiritual growth and maturity while partial knowledge causes us to focus on only one or two dimensions of God which results in the practice of half-baked Christianity. When we select one part of God that we cherish and discard the other parts, we become spiritually malnourished. Understanding that God is compassionate and gracious will help us shake off the feeling of condemnation and guilt, but when we do not realize that the same God is a consuming fire and that judgement day is coming, we will inevitably abuse the grace of God in our lives. Some preachers have created another god to suit the brand of Christianity which they practice. There is now a god whose main objective is to financially prosper his worshipers. This god perfectly understands human weaknesses and allows sinners to come to church and go home as they are. Every Christian as a matter of urgency should strive to know God in full to avoid being tossed back and forth by waves of doctrine of men. Total reliance on preachers for the full knowledge of God is risky because many preachers seem to know Him in part and teach and preach Him in part they sadly cannot give what they do not have. The Apostle Paul after many years as a preacher still strove to know God holistically: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death (Philippians 3:10). This kind of knowledge is not intellectual and cannot be acquired in Bible study class or seminary. It is revelational, relational and empirical. Anyone who desire to have it must strive to have a personal encounter with the only true triune God of the Bible. Greek court: Orthodox students cannot be exempted from religion classes In an ongoing struggle between the Atheist Union of Greece and Greece's Ministry of Education, Greece's Council of State ruled this month that Greek Orthodox students cannot be excused from required religious education classes and said exemptions for non-Orthodox do not violate human rights or European Union privacy laws. In Greece, public education and religious education are intimately entwined so much so that the Ministry of Education's full name is the Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports. Article 16 of the Greek Constitution declares that "Education constitutes a basic mission for the State" and tasks educators with "the development of national and religious consciousness." All students in Greek public schools who belong to the country's Orthodox Christian majority are therefore required to attend religion classes from grade three through high school. But Greece has long allowed exemptions for Jews, Muslims and non-Orthodox Christian groups, along with atheists and agnostics. According to the Greek newspaper eKathemerini, in recent years about 10,500 exemptions have been granted annually. The Atheist Union of Greece initially took the matter to court in 2015, arguing that the request for an exemption itself constituted a violation of privacy under the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation, as it created a record of each student's religion, or lack of one. The process also allowed school administrators to coerce students into the classes or retaliate against those who request exemptions, the suit argued. "The ministry was trying as hard as they could so that few students would get exempted and to discourage students to seek exemptions by using a variety of tricks and ministerial decisions," Napoleon Papistas, the secretary of the Atheist Union of Greece, told Religion News Service. The wording of the exemption request required students, with the approval of their parents, to declare themselves "not of the Orthodox Christian religion," Papistas explained. Overly eager school officials, he said, would often search for students' baptism records and use their baptismal certificates as grounds to reject their claims. "We have had many parents and students contact us because they encountered some problems, in the process of applying for the exemption," Papistas said. "There are still some school principals who feel it is their right to defend Christianity and Orthodoxy." Some 90% of Greece's population identifies as Orthodox Christian, according to a 2017 Pew study of religion in Eastern Europe, though only 17% attend church weekly. The Greek Constitution states that Orthodox Christianity is the "prevailing religion" of Greece. Since the case was filed, the ministry changed the language for requesting the exemption to what officials considered more neutral language: "Reasons of religious conscience do not allow the participation (of me or my child) in the Religious Studies course," it now states. The Atheist Union and other human rights groups in Greece felt this was not enough, as it still put school administrators in a position to evaluate a student on the basis of religious beliefs. According to the Hellenic League of Human Rights, their objection was backed by the European Court of Human Rights, which in a 2018 case found that "state authorities do not have the right to intervene in the sphere of individual conscience and ascertain the religious beliefs of the individual or compel him to reveal his beliefs regarding spiritual matters." In the same case, the National Secular Society argued that the new language also discriminated against Orthodox students by not giving them the option to seek an exemption. At that point, Orthodox Church authorities intervened in the original 2015 case to prohibit opening up exemptions to Orthodox students. Theodoros Papageorgiou, special counsel to the Holy Synod of the Church of Greece, told RNS in an email that the church believes the Atheist Union is "trying to abolish the compulsory nature of the course for Christian Orthodox students." He denied that the religious classes are "religious indoctrination," describing them instead as "basically, Orthodox Christian content providing religious knowledge." "The fact that the course must have Orthodox content does not make it brainwashing, firstly because it concerns students who come from Orthodox Christian families and secondly because the student is graded on his knowledge, not on how much he believes or how much he feels he belongs to Orthodox Church," he added. The Council of State ruling essentially agreed with that argument. Papistas said he intends to take it to the European Convention on Human Rights. In the meantime, Papistas saw a small victory in the ruling, pointing out that it explicitly prevented schools from verifying a student's religious history through baptismal records, investigating parents' or grandparents' involvement in a local church or any other way. "We lost on the wording of the decision and on the wording of the application for exemption, but the substantial bottom line is it's kind of a win because it explicitly states the schools are not allowed to seek students' personal data to verify if their religious reasons stand," Papistas said. The ruling also left open the question of what will replace the religion course for those who take the exemption. According to eKathemirini, it will most likely be an ethics course that deals with the history of world religions in a nondenominational way. The decision also leaves unresolved the broader debate in Greece about the role of the Orthodox Church in schools. In 2016, the short-lived government of the left-leaning Syriza party considered replacing the religious education classes with a nondenominational one that looked very much like the proposed ethics course for exempted students. Orthodox leaders managed to stop that change, and eight years later the Greek Parliament looks very different, with more seats than ever granted to far-right parties, many of them espousing a uniquely Orthodox form of Christian nationalism. One such party, Niki, has its own complaint about the religion classes, claiming that the textbooks "slander the Orthodox faith" and "add immoral and unscientific content through alleged sex education." Religion News Service Iraq: fire at wedding in Christian town kills over 100 (CP) Family members of a Christian bride and groom confirmed Wednesday that they survived a massive fire that erupted during their wedding celebration that killed at least 100 and injured more than 150 of their guests in Iraq's biggest Christian town in northern Nineveh province Tuesday. The bride and groom, who have been identified as Haneen and Ivan Esho, are receiving treatment at a hospital in Erbil, the Kurdistan region of Iraq. Iraqi Joint Operations Command Spokesperson Major General Pilot Tahseen Al Khafaji told CNN that there were some 1,300 guests in attendance at the event when the fire broke out at approximately 10:45 p.m. local time. Survivors told Reuters that the guests had gathered at the banquet hall following an earlier church service. They were only inside for about one hour when fireworks ignited a fire among the decorations in the ceiling as the newlyweds danced. "Initial information indicates that fireworks were used during the wedding ceremony, which initially ignited a fire inside the hall. The fire spread very quickly, and the matter was exacerbated by the toxic gas emissions associated with the burning of the highly flammable Ecobond plastic panels, which caused casualties and injuries among families," a statement from Iraq's Ministry of Interior said. "An investigation was also opened and a forensic expert was summoned to ascertain the causes of the fire." It was also noted by the ministry that the banquet hall was covered with highly flammable Ecobond panels which is a violation of local building codes. He said the quick spread of the fire caused parts of the building to collapse on the wedding party even though first responders were also quick to respond to the fire alarm. The father of the groom who also confirmed that the couple had survived, said he blamed the owner of the banquet hall for the tragedy. Officials say warrants have already been issued for the arrest of the hall's owners. "I hold the owner of the hall responsible for what happened at the party because there are no extinguishers or safety measures in the hall," he said as family members of the dead mourned their loved ones outside a morgue in the nearby city of Mosul, a Christian town that survived occupation by the Islamic State terrorist group. "This was not a wedding. This was hell," Mariam Khedr told Reuters as she cried and hit herself while she waited for officials to return the bodies of her daughter, Rana Yakoub, 27, and three young grandchildren, who had attended the wedding. Imad Yohana, a 34-year-old who escaped the fire, said some people got stuck in the hall trying to escape. "We saw the fire pulsating, coming out of the hall," he told Reuters. "Those who managed got out and those who didn't got stuck." "I lost my daughter, her husband and their 3-year-old," another woman seen waiting outside the Mosul morgue told Reuters. "They were all burned. My heart is burning." A wedding guest told Iraqi channel Alawla TV that the bride and groom were devastated by the fire. "The bride and groom are fine. I was just with them now, but their condition is devastating due to what happened to people here," a guest said, according to CNN. Video posted online shows hundreds of people lining up at local hospitals at 3 a.m. local time to give blood to help the survivors. "There are hundreds of people injured, we are in need of blood," Nader Salm, a 49-year-old translator from Qaraqosh, told CNN. "This tragedy hurt us more than ISIS. At least when ISIS came, we could escape, but now a wedding became a graveyard for us." The Christian Post 'Pray for the media,' urges leading CofE bishop A senior Church of England bishop has called for Christians to pray for the media and its impact globally, nationally and locally. The Rt Revd Helen-Ann Hartley, Bishop of Newcastle, makes the appeal in a video launched this week to support the National Day of Prayer for the Media, organised by Christians in Media. She explains: "The power of the media to speak truth to power, to change and to set the agenda, to respond and to tell a story of positive hope matters so much in our world today." The bishop, who has been involved in media since being ordained in 2005, speaks of the massive changes she has seen over those years. She said: "The world of media has changed hugely in the last few years and has enabled so many stories that are global to become local. Issues from countries and continents that are so far away are suddenly transported into our living rooms." Bishop Helen-Ann calls on churches and Christians to support the National Day of Prayer on Sunday 29 October, describing it as "a fantastic opportunity to engage with prayer specifically for all those who are working in the media landscape in lots of different ways. "Let it be a day that enables, that encourages, that inspires. May it be a day that calls for a reset in how we seek to live and to tell our story our good news message of hope for a world that so needs it." The Christians in Media network is encouraging churches to set aside time in their services or meetings on Sunday 29 October to pray for their local, regional, national and social media, and for those in their congregations who work in and with media in all its forms. The charity has also organised an online prayer meeting on Thursday 12 October, when prominent Christians working in the media will be speaking. They include: Julia Bicknell, journalist and editor; Warren Nettleford, ITV News broadcaster and founder of Right Thing Films; and Tim Levell, programme director, Times Radio. In its call to prayer, Christians in Media says, "As Christians, we are called to pray for our world and our society. From national newspapers to local radio, from websites to specialist publications, from TV networks to blogs, all have a valuable role to play. "A thriving global and national media matters to all of us. We want to know about our world, its celebrations, its problems and its joys, and we need a thriving media to help us engage with it. "The National Day of Prayer shows our commitment to pray for and to stand alongside all those who work across the media landscape." Rev Peter Crumpler is a Church of England minister in St Albans, Herts, UK, and a former communications director with the CofE. He has also recorded a video in support of the National Day of Prayer. The Marquis de Sade the progressive prophet? In order to understand the times we live in, it is essential that we know where we have come from. While this is true of personal history it is also true of our collective history which is perhaps why The Rest is History, fronted by Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook, has become one of the most popular podcasts in the English-speaking world. The mixture of deep historical knowledge, contemporary application, British humour and joyful camaraderie make for a wonderful listening experience. Every now and then they come up with an episode which is revelatory almost prophetic. A recent example was on that unlikeliest of historical subjects, the infamous Marquis de Sade. In less skilled hands the temptation to turn this into a kind of mocking sleaze fest would have been too much, but not to our two intrepid presenters. In fact, what transpired was enlightening. When we find ourselves wondering how the Western world has ended up in its present state of confusion and disintegration, the Rest is History's analysis of de Sade helps us to the answers. In summary, Holland and Sandbrook argued that the ideologies and ideas of Freud, Darwin and Nietzsche were there in seed form in de Sade. De Sade, a Frenchman, was born in 1740. He was a writer, philosopher, politician and playboy. He lived through the French revolution and even became a key participant in it, becoming an elected delegate to the National Convention. He died in September 1814 having lived a life of debauchery, sexual perversion and violent abuse. He recorded his ideology in various writings including the books Justine and The 120 Days of Sodom - works that are so grotesque they were banned in the UK until 1989. They are horrific so horrific that Tom Holland records that though he had tried to read The 120 Days of Sodom several times, he gave up. He described it as literally "unreadable", because of its evil and sickening content. It is an interesting observation that websites like Amazon feel quite free to offer this book for sale (and Penguin are now quite happy to publish it as a 'classic') but dare to misgender someone and your books could be banned! At a personal level I would strongly discourage people from reading this dark perversity I know of people who have been severely harmed by reading it at university. His promotion of what became known as sadism, as well as masochism and homosexuality was, for its day, so extreme that he ended up in prison for over 30 years of his life. But as Holland and Sandbrook point out, much of his philosophy would today now be regarded as 'progressive'. Here are his principles which sound so modern. 1. All is naturalistic materialism He was a social Darwinist, believing in the survival of the fittest. He had faith that everything was material. All are molecules and molecules are endlessly turning. Therefore, war and murder are natural and desirable. It is natural for wolves to eat lambs and we should never oppose nature. 2. Reject Christianity It is not without significance that de Sade was a committed atheist, who like Nietzsche, rejected not only the religion of Christianity but also its values and virtues. De Sade hated and despised Christ and the Church. He continually blasphemed against all aspects of Christianity and attacked Christ, as well as portraying the clergy as perverted hypocrites. He regarded Christianity as a slave religion which was fit only for the weak. In this he was a forerunner of Hitler. Traudl Junge, Hitler's personal secretary, described Hitler's de Sade/Nietzsche philosophy in the book, Until the Final Hour: "Sometimes we also had interesting discussions about the church and the development of the human race. Perhaps it's going too far to call them discussions, because he would begin explaining his ideas when some question or remark from one of us had set them off, and we just listened. He was not a member of any church, and thought the Christian religions were outdated, hypocritical institutions that lured people into them. The laws of nature were his religion. He could reconcile his dogma of violence better with nature than with the Christian doctrine of loving your neighbour and your enemy. 'Science isn't yet clear about the origins of humanity,' he once said. 'We are probably the highest stage of development of some mammal which developed from reptiles and moved on to human beings, perhaps by way of the apes. We are a part of creation and children of nature, and the same laws apply to us as to all living creatures. And in nature the law of the struggle for survival has reigned from the first. Everything incapable of life, everything weak is eliminated. Only mankind and above all the church have made it their aim to keep alive the weak, those unfit to live, and people of an inferior kind." 3. Follow your desires For de Sade culture is relative. You can trust only yourself and your feelings especially your sexual desires. They are your authentic self so you must do what you want and live your own truth. Freud accepted Sade's proposition that sexual identity is fundamental to your identity and that it is bad to suppress it. We have now so adopted this as state ideology in the Western world, that to seek to suppress any one's desires is regarded in some states as a hate crime. Whereas de Sade went to jail for sexual perversion, soon we will be sent to jail for calling it perversion! 4. Follow 'Progressive' values It was fascinating to discover that Michel Foucault and Jacques Derrida, the fathers of postmodernism, were greatly influenced by de Sade and wrote appreciative studies of him. Even feminists like Simone de Beauvoir feted him despite his sickening treatment of women and young girls. Like de Sade they too argued that morals were rooted in nature rather than in Christianity. De Sade was against the death penalty (although accepting that murder was natural), believed that women had the right to abortion and was in favour of gay rights. He pushed these principles to the extremes but if you believe in absolute tolerance then his violence and sadism are difficult to condemn. He argued that rape and incest should be legitimate and that murder, even to the extent of genocide, was sometimes good because it was just nature's way of limiting the human population and saving Mother Earth. In writing about the joy of rivers in China being clogged up with the bodies of dead children he foreshadowed Chairman Mao's view of the Great Famine (man-made) where up to 30 million died. When told this Mao responded "is that all?". After all it was just a rearranging of molecules; the strong getting rid of the weak for the sake of humanity and the planet and the good of the state! 5. A progressive state should always be looking for frontiers to push back With every 'progressive' advance (or as I would put it, regression back into the pre-Christian pagan past) we sometimes hope 'that will be the end of that, now they've got what they wanted'. But for progressives, when they get their values, it's like drinking salt water. Their thirst is never satisfied. Like de Sade they want to push the boundaries just another step. And then another. And then another. None of this is to say that everyone who adheres to 'progressive' doctrines is a Sadist. Most people are too inconsistent and confused to follow everything through to its logical conclusion. However, we need to point out that Sadism is the logical and natural outcome of these doctrines and that it in turn leads to Fascism and Communism. It is ironic that the most 'progressive' states in the West say they are the enemies of Fascism (although they for some reason seem to leave out its twin, Communism), while themselves espousing the Sadist doctrines and adopting a softer, but nonetheless authoritarian ideology. As Paul tells us in 1 Timothy 4:1 'in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons'. Does anyone doubt that the primary doctrines that de Sade promoted are anything other than 'demonic'? Christians need to understand this and know that the best way to fight the darkness is to be the light. The best way to preserve the taste of society is to be salt. The best way to defeat anything anti-Christ is to proclaim Christ in word and deed. The rest is history. David Robertson leads The ASK Project in Sydney, Australia. He blogs at The Wee Flea. 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 Labour has been urged to consider implications of its plan to remove the unfair tax breaks received by private schools, but not remove their charitable status. Many private schools in the UK have charitable status, which means they are able to take advantage of various tax concessions, including the ability to reclaim some VAT in certain circumstances. These institutions have to generate a meaningful amount of public benefit, though the Charity Commission is not prescriptive about this. Last year, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said in a speech the party would be removing private schools charitable status. He said the Labour party would use tax money gained by removing private schools charitable status to invest in state education if it wins the next general election. But a party spokesperson has now said: Our policy remains. We will remove the unfair tax breaks that private schools benefit from, to fund desperately needed teachers and mental health counselling in every secondary school. This doesn't require removing charitable status, however, driving high and rising standards for every child against the backdrop of a broken economy requires political choices. Labour isn't afraid to make them. CTG: Implications for a number of special schools operated by charities Richard Bray, chair of Charity Tax Group (CTG) told Civil Society: Whether or not an organisation or type of organisation qualifies for a particular tax relief is a matter for parliament to decide and the position of educational institutions that are not charities is not a matter for us. However, the blanket removal of the exemption from VAT for education provided by private schools would have serious implications for a number of special schools operated by charities, such as schools for children with special needs and schools for blind children. At the very least, any redrafting of the current exemption would need to be very carefully handled to avoid them being inadvertently affected by any change. We have always held to the view that all organisations that qualify for charitable status should benefit equally from the reliefs that are available to all charities. So, with rates relief, we consider that if some charities are seen as not deserving of that status, the remedy is to amend the law on charitable status, not the law on taxation. Editor's Note: The headline, subhead, and introduction of this piece have been edited since publication to provide further clarification. 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, Charity Super.Mkt has raised over 1m since its creation, and the multi-charity retail store has now expanded into the Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent. The first pop-up store opened in Bent Cross Shopping Centre, London , in January and has since set up in Bristol, Glasgow and Reading. Today, Charity Super.Mkt launched in Kent in response to the growing popularity of pre-loved shopping and to create a unique retail experience for guests looking for quality, affordable products. The Charity Retail Association said that the concept has proved hugely popular with shoppers, with 101,659 items sold in its first six months, generating more than 1m for 10 charities including Age UK, TRAID, and Shelter. The brand was created by co-founder of footwear brand Red or Dead Wayne Hemingway and TRAID chief executive Maria Chenoweth. Hemingway said: Its a mere seven months since we started on this journey to attempt to demonstrate that charity secondhand fashion could and should be part of a modern retail mix in the busiest of shopping centres. Charity Super.Mkt is proving that and more. Not only is the concept exciting customers, allowing them to do their bit for society, the environment and their own pockets, its creating uplifts in footfall and most importantly providing much-needed income for charities. Chenoweth added: My career and ambition has always been to promote second-hand fashion as the most impactful way to dress ourselves. The creation of Charity Super.Mkt has brought charity retailers into mainstream retail, gaining locations that would have otherwise been inaccessible. Charity Super.Mkt gives charities the opportunity to raise more funds, and that means more nursing time in hospices, more support for animals, more research into cancer and in TRAIDs case, more support for the people who make our clothes. Were really excited to be taking for the first time Charity Super.Mkt and charity retail into Bluewater the UKs second largest shopping centre. The 10 participating charities are: Age UK Cancer Research UK Deaf Blind UK Demelza Ellenor Havens Hospices Marie Curie Pilgrims Hospices Shelter TRAID 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, Misinformation and disinformation have arguably never been as prominent or widely distributed as they are now, thanks to smartphones, the social Web, and apps such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and YouTube. Unfortunately, as the US draws closer to a pivotal election in which trustworthy information is likely to be more important than ever, various researchers and academic institutions are scaling back or even canceling their misinformation programs, due to legal threats and government pressure. At the same time, a number of large digital platforms have laid off hundreds or even thousands of the employees who specialized in finding and removing hoaxes and fakes, in some cases leaving only a skeleton staff to handle the problem. And all of this is happening as the quantity of fakes and conspiracy theories is expanding rapidly, thanks to cheap tools powered by artificial intelligence that can generate misinformation at the click of a button. In other words, a perfect storm could be brewing. Over the weekend, Naomi Nix, Cat Zakrzewski, and Joseph Menn described, in the Washington Post, how academics, universities, and government agencies are paring back or even shutting down research programs designed to help counter the spread of online misinformation, because of what the Post calls a legal campaign from conservative politicians and activists, who accuse them of colluding with tech companies to censor right-wing views. This campaignwhich the paper says is being led by Jim Jordan, the Republican congressman from Ohio who chairs the House Judiciary Committee, and his co-partisanshas cast a pall over programs that study misinformation online, the Post says. Jordan and his colleagues have issued subpoenas demanding that researchers turn over their communications with the government and social media platforms as part of a congressional probe into alleged collusion between the White House and the platforms. The potential casualties of this campaign include a project called the Election Integrity Partnership, a consortium of universities and other agencies, led by Stanford and the University of Washington, that has focused on tracking conspiracy theories and hoaxes about voting irregularities. According to the Post, Stanford is questioning whether it can continue participating because of ongoing litigation. (Since this investigation has cost the university now approaching seven [figure] legal fees, its been pretty successful, I think, in discouraging us from making it worthwhile for us to do a study in 2024, Alex Stamos, a former Facebook official who founded the Stanford Internet Observatory, said.) Meanwhile, the National Institutes of Health shelved a hundred-and-fifty-million-dollar program aimed at correcting medical misinformation because of legal threats. In July, NIH officials reportedly sent a memo to employees warning them not to flag misleading social media posts to tech companies. As I wrote for CJR last week, contacts between government agencies and the platforms are also at the heart of a lawsuit that is currently working its way through the court system. The case began last year, when the attorneys general of Louisiana and Missouri sued the Biden administration, alleging that their discussions with Meta, X, and YouTube breached the First Amendment in that they coerced those platforms into removing speech. In July, a Louisiana appeals court judge ruled in favor of the states, and ordered the administration to stop talking with the platforms; he also ordered that government agencies stop working with academics who specialize in disinformation. That order was amended by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the Biden administration has asked the Supreme Court to hear the case, but the brouhaha appears to have contributed to an atmosphere of fear about the repercussions of misinformation research. In addition to this case and the House investigation, Stephen Miller, a former Trump adviser who runs a conservative organization called the America First Legal Foundation, is representing the founder of Gateway Pundit, a right-wing website, in a lawsuit alleging that researchers at Stanford and other institutions conspired with the government to restrict speech. And Elon Musk, the owner of X, is suing the Center for Countering Digital Hate, a nonprofit advocacy group that Musk alleges has scraped large amounts of data from the platform without proper permission, as part of what Musk calls a conspiracy to persuade advertisers not to spend money there. A researcher who asked not to be named told the Post that as a result of such attacks, the whole area of misinformation research has become radioactive. While lawsuits and investigations are chilling research into misinformation, the platforms are simultaneously devoting fewer resources to finding or removing fakes and hoaxes. Earlier this month, Nix and Sarah Ellison wrote in the Post that tech companies including Meta and YouTube are receding from their role as watchdogs aimed at protecting users from conspiracy theories in advance of the 2024 presidential election, in part because layoffs have gutted the teams dedicated to promoting accurate information on such platforms. Peer pressure may have played a role, too: according to the Post, Meta last year considered implementing a ban on all political advertising on Facebook, but the idea was killed after Musk said he wanted X, a key Meta rival, to become a bastion of free speech. As Casey Newton wrote in his Platformer newsletter in June, one function that Musk seems to have served in the tech ecosystem is to give cover to other companies seeking to make unpalatable decisions. Sign up for CJR 's daily email Emily Bell, the director of the Tow Center for Digital Journalism at Columbia University, told the Post that Musk has taken the bar and put it on the floor when it comes to trust and safety. Not to be outdone, Meta has reportedly started offering users the ability to opt out of Facebooks fact-checking program, which means false content would no longer have a warning label. And YouTube announced in June that it would no longer remove videos claiming that the 2020 presidential election was stolen. The Google-owned video platform wrote in a blog post that while it wants to protect users, it also has a mandate to provide a home for open discussion and debate. While removing election-denying content might curb the spread of misinformation, the company said, it could also curtail political speech without meaningfully reducing the risk of real-world harm. Citing similar reasons, Meta and other platforms have reinstated Trumps accounts after banning him following the January 6 insurrection. In a report released last week, the Center for Democracy and Technology, a DC-based nonprofit, wrote that the platforms have become less communicative since the 2020 election, especially after the widespread layoffs, and in some cases have loosened safeguards against election misinformation to such an extent that they have essentially capitulate[d] on the issue. At Meta, for example, the Center said interviews with researchers indicated that Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO, at some point stopped considering election integrity a top priority and stopped meeting with the elections team. The New York Times reported in early 2023 that cuts of more than twelve thousand staff at Alphabet, Googles parent company, meant that only a single person at YouTube was in charge of misinformation policy worldwide. While all this has been going on, researchers who specialize in artificial intelligence say that the ubiquity of such tools threatens to increase the supply of misinformation dramatically. At least half a dozen online services using variations on software from OpenAI or open-source equivalents can produce convincing fake text, audio, and even video in a matter of minutes, including so-called deepfakes that mimic well-known public figures. And this kind of content is cheap to produce: last month, Wired talked to an engineer who built an AI-powered disinformation engine for four hundred dollars. Earlier this month, the BBC wrote about how YouTube channels that use AI to make videos containing fake content are being recommended to children as educational content. The broadcaster found more than fifty channels spreading disinformation, including claims around the existence of electricity-producing pyramids and aliens. Sara Morrison, of Vox, has written about how unbelievably realistic fake images could take over the internet because AI image generators like DALL-E and Midjourney are getting better and better at fooling us. When Trump was charged in New York earlier this year, fake photos showing his arrest went viral; Trump even shared an AI-generated image of his own. (Ironically, some of the fake pictures were created by Eliot Higgins, the founder of the investigative journalism outfit Bellingcat, as a warning that such images are easy to create.) Bell wrote for The Guardian that ChatGPT could be disastrous for truth in journalism and create a fake news frenzy. Sam Gregory, program director of Witness, a human rights group with expertise in deepfakes, told Fast Company of an emerging combined risk of deepfakes, virtual avatars, and automated speech generation, which could produce large quantities of fake information quickly. The list goes on. It should be noted that not everyone is as concerned about misinformation (or AI, for that matter) as these comments might suggest; in January, researchers from Sciences Po, a university in Paris, published a study saying that the problem is often overstated. (Falsehoods do not spread faster than the truth, they wrote, adding that sheer volume of engagement should not be conflated with belief.) And content moderationand the governments role in it, in particularraises some legitimately thorny issues around freedom of speech. But misinformation is a real problem, even if one can debate the extent, and thorny debates are no excuse for political intimidation. We dont want a world in which those who are best equipped to fight misinformation, and answer the thorny questions, have either lost their jobs or are too scared to speak out for fear of a lawsuit. Other notable stories: ICYMI: Rick Perlstein on Hunter Biden and the echoes of Jimmy Carters brother Mathew Ingram is CJRs chief digital writer. Previously, he was a senior writer with Fortune magazine. He has written about the intersection between media and technology since the earliest days of the commercial internet. His writing has been published in the Washington Post and the Financial Times as well as by Reuters and Bloomberg. MOSUL, Iraq (AP) As they watched the bride and groom start their slow dance, Faten Youssef imagined the future wedding of her son, seated next to her at a reception table. Within moments, however, disaster struck when an inferno erupted that would leave nearly 100 dead in the northern Iraqi wedding hall. As the dance began, a ring of pyrotechnics machines on the floor released fountains of sparks into the air. As the music played, ceiling panels above the machines burst into flames. The around 250 panicked guests in the the Haitham Royal Wedding Hall in the predominantly Christian Hamdaniya area stampeded for the exits as flaming decorations and pieces of ceiling rained down on them. Authorities on Wednesday said around 100 people were killed, with the toll expected to rise with at least 100 injured, including many critically burned. Authorities said highly flammable building materials contributed to the disaster. The tragedy Tuesday night was the latest to hit Iraqs Christian minority, which has dwindled to a fraction of its former size over the past decade in the face of militant attacks. There was no official word on the cause of the blaze. But Kurdish television news channel Rudaw aired footage of the flames erupt from the ceiling over a chandelier as the spark machines jetted fireworks below. Flames started falling on us. Youssef told The Associated Press. Things were falling down and blocked the way to the exit. The guests, seated at long tables for the reception meal, rushed to the exits and the electricity went out. Youssefs son tried to pull her to safety as she held her daughters hand. Youssef fell over onto the floor, right next to an elderly woman sprawled helplessly. Youssefs son tried to kick open a jammed exit door but couldnt, she said. In the turmoil, her husband was missing. They managed to escape out another door, and once outside she found her husband had gotten out through the kitchen. Its like we were brought back to life, I still dont know how we survived, Youssef said. Another guest, Nabil Ibrahim, happened to be outside with one of his sons getting fresh air when the fire broke out. His wife, daughter and other son were still inside. He and his son rushed in, and I saw people burning and screaming, he recalled. He and others tried to help people get out. He saw one unconscious woman being carried out, but later learned she died of suffocation. He eventually escaped through the kitchen and found the rest of his family outside. With many trapped inside, someone brought a bulldozer and knocked a hole in the wedding hall wall, survivors said. But by that time, most of the people inside had died, Ibrahim said. Fortunately, many of the guests children were outside playing in a nearby playground when the fire erupted. If theyd all been inside, they would have died, he said. It wasnt immediately clear if the bride and groom were among those hurt. Ambulance sirens wailed for hours after the fire. Survivors arrived at local hospitals in bandages as staff worked to organize more oxygen cylinders. The hall was left scattered with torn clothes, children shoes and baby bottles, according to images on Rudaw and social media. A Health Ministry official, speaking to the AP at midday Wednesday, put the death toll at 94 with around 100 people still receiving medical treatment. The death toll is expected to rise as some are in critical condition, he said. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the press. Interior Minister Abdul Amir al-Shammari earlier put the toll at 93 dead. The official said 30 bodies have been identified by relatives, but the rest are too badly burned and will require DNA identification. The disaster stunned Hamdaniya, a region of small towns with a mixture of Christians, Muslims and small minority religions in the Nineveh Plains outside the northern city of Mosul. Father Rudi Saffar Khoury, a priest at the wedding, said It was a disaster in every sense of the word. The number of Christians in Iraq today is estimated at 150,000, compared to 1.5 million in 2003. Iraqs total population is more than 40 million. Over the past two decades, Iraqs Christian minority has been violently targeted by extremists first from al-Qaida and then the Islamic State militant group. Although the Nineveh Plains, their historic homeland, was wrested back from the Islamic State group six years ago, some towns are still mostly rubble and lack basic services, and many Christians have left for Europe, Australia or the United States. Iraqs prime minister ordered an investigation into the blaze. Interior Ministry spokesman Saad Maan said the primary forensic report described a lack of safety and security measures at the venue. Iraqi security forces arrested nine workers at the venue, said Abdullah Al-Jabouri, a security official who heads the Nineveh Operations Command. One of the owners of the venue, Chonny Suleiman Naboo, blamed the fire on an electrical fault in the ceiling. Speaking to the AP, he insisted the venue had all the officials approvals and that his brother and the halls supervisor would turn themselves in to authorities. We were attacked by residents and our cars were damaged because of what happened, and were worried that our homes could be attacked too, Naboo said. Civil defense officials quoted by the Iraqi News Agency said the wedding halls exterior was covered with a highly flammable, low-cost type of sandwich panel cladding that is illegal in the country. The materials collapse within minutes when the fire breaks out, civil defense said. Experts say cheaper sandwich panels dont always meet stricter safety standards, and are especially dangerous on buildings without any breaks to slow or halt a possible blaze. That includes the 2017 Grenfell Fire in London that killed 72 people in the greatest loss of life in a fire on British soil since World War II, as well as multiple high-rise fires in the United Arab Emirates. Similar panels have been blamed in several previous fires in Iraq. In July 2021, a blaze at a hospital in the Iraqi city of Nasiriyah that killed between 60 to 92 people was determined to have been fueled by sandwich panels. Later Wednesday, hundreds of people gathered in a Christian cemetery in the area to attend funerals of some of the fires victims. Coffins draped in white cloth, some decorated with flowers, were carried one after another into the cemetery. Mourners wept and waved portraits of the dead.. Sadness has prevailed the town, its as if there was a curfew imposed, Youssef said. The town has transformed from happiness to grief and morning. She said her family vows never again to attend wedding parties. My son told me that if he gets married, he will never have an event like this just a church ceremony, she said. Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. A freight broker is not liable for an $18 million jury award to the mother of a teenage boy who suffered a brain injury when he was struck by a truck, an Illinois appellate court ruled Wednesday. A panel of the 1st District of the Illinois Appellate Court reversed a decision by the Cook County Circuit Court to deny a motion by Alliance Shippers to be removed as a defendant in a personal injury lawsuit against Dakota Lines and its driver, Gordon Lewis. The appellate panel ruled that Alliance did not exercise sufficient control over the trucking company to establish an agency relationship that would make it jointly liable for the accident. Alliance exercised little, if any control over Dakotas and its drivers performance of the transportation work, as opposed to control over the result of the assigned task or matters ancillary to the work to be performed, the opinion says. Gustavo Cornejo Jr. was 17 in 2016 when he was struck by Dakotas semi-truck while fixing a vehicle along side Illinois Route 394 south of Chicago. The Chicago Sun-Times reported that Cornejo was trying to fix faulty lights on a landscaping trailer when Lewis drove off the road and struck him from behind, throwing him 30 feet and causing traumatic brain injury that put him in a coma for two weeks. Cornejos mother, Francine, filed a lawsuit on her sons behalf against Lewis, Dakota and Alliance. The freight broker filed a motion to be dismissed from the action but the trial court denied it. Cornejos lawyers argued Dakota was Alliances agent because the broker controlled what trailers it used, what loads it picked up and how long the deliveries should take. Alliance also required the trucking company to use a specific electronic data interchange to communicate and required it to meet performance standards and set requirements for seal integrity, freight bills and cargo security. A Cook County jury returned an $18,115,750 verdict in favor of Cornejo, plus $466,161.20 in prejudgment interest. The jury also answered a special interrogatory by finding that Alliance was Dakotas agent at the time of the crash. Alliance filed a motion after the judgment that again sought its removal as a defendant. The company appealed after the request was rejected by the trial court. The appellate panel said that Illinois courts have, on occasion, found that freight brokers acted as agents and were liable for damages caused by highway accidents. In 2013, for example, the 1st District held that Dean Foods had an agency relationship with a shipper because it required the trucking companys employees to wear Dean logos on their trucks and uniforms and owned the trailers that were used for deliveries. The appellate panel said Alliance and Dakota Lines were not so closely intertwined. The opinion said Illinois courts have rejected arguments that the use of on-time delivery performance standards and a requirement that shipping companies use a designated electronic systems to communicate as a basis to find an agency relationship. Alliance did not pay Dakotas drivers and withhold taxes from their pay; hire, train or fire the drivers; dispatch or speak to the drivers; control the drivers routes or provide them with tools, equipment, or materials; or own the tractors or trailers the drivers used, the opinion said. It is undisputed that Dakota and Alliance adhered to the terms of their agreement, which provided that Dakota had full control over its personnel and would perform services as an independent contractor. The appellate court reversed the trial courts decision not to dismiss Alliance as a defendant. The decision does not affect the judgment against Dakota or Lewis, the court said. CLEVELAND, Ohio Solons human resources director has been placed on leave as police investigate a report of an assault that took place at City Hall earlier this month, police said. Yolanda Guzman, 54, was charged with assault, a first-degree misdemeanor. Allyne Zamcheck, a 75-year-old woman who works at the front desk of City Hall, told police she was injured by Guzman on Sept. 7 while they discussed an earlier disagreement, according to a police report. Zamcheck accused Guzman of trying to turn her chair while Zamcheck was sitting in it, which caused her to fall out. She reported hitting her head and injuring her tailbone, police said. In a phone interview with cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer, Zamcheck said she went to the emergency room and was treated for a fractured tailbone. Security video provided by the city shows Guzman standing behind a seated Zamcheck at the front desk. The video then quickly skips to show Zamcheck getting up off of the floor and quickly walking away from Guzman. No contact is visible in the video. Solons associate law director, Sarah Kostura, said the video is what the city was able to capture from the surveillance system near the front desk. She said it was not altered. According to a disciplinary letter sent to Guzman, the human resources director grabbed Zamchecks chair and swung her around causing her to fall and injure her tailbone and head. It was NOT acceptable for you to get physical with Allyne, the letter says. The video skips but, in slow motion, we can see you blocked Allynes path and put your arm around her. We cannot tell if you actually grabbed Allyne. The letter also noted that Zamcheck shoved Guzman to get past her. City officials indicated that Zamcheck was crying and shaking while Guzmans hand was bleeding. In light of those facts, Allyne is being reprimanded for being unprofessional and disrespectful to you. In the future, she should maturely discuss matters with her colleagues -- face-to-face, the letter said. Guzman was released on bond, and the case has been referred to Bedford Municipal Court. She has been suspended from work for eight weeks without pay. The city also said she will be fired if another physical altercation occurs that is not self-defense related. In addition, Guzman is expected to complete anger management course before returning to work. In order to preserve the integrity of the criminal legal process, the city is refraining from providing any further comment at this time. The city remains committed to the safety and privacy of its employees and will continue to communicate with the community as needed, the city said in a statement. HILLIARD, Ohio A 23-year-old man is facing four counts of rape and other charges after authorities say he sexually assaulted several young children at a Columbus-area church. Joshua Pearson, of Columbus, also is charged with two counts of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor and one count of gross sexual imposition, according to Franklin County Common Pleas Court records. Pearson has not yet appeared in court. A news release from Hilliard police says the some of the assaults occurred between 2012 and 2014 at what was then called the Open Gate Church of God. The church is now called the New Beginnings Church of God and is under new leadership. Police say current staff members are not being investigated. Police tell WBNS Channel 10 that the reported assaults involved two girls between 7 and 10 years old between 2012 and 2014. Pearson also is accused of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl in 2021, police tell WBNS. According to police, Pearson is a former member of the church who assisted in the childrens and teen rooms. Pearson is being held in jail after his arrest on Wednesday, reports say. TOLEDO, Ohio A 70-year-old woman found dead behind her home likely died from an attack by her own dog, reports say. WTOL Channel 11 reports a police report shows Diane Knepper was pronounced dead Tuesday in the backyard of her residence on the 4000 block of Grantley Road in Toledo. Workers with a lawn-care company found the woman, WTVG Channel 13 reports. Police say the woman had significant injuries, WTOL reports. Firefighters were able to move the dog away from the woman so emergency workers could attempt to help her. Her dog was taken away by a dog warden. There were no reports on the dogs breed. Police are continuing to investigate the incident, WTVG reports. CLEVELAND, Ohio Cleveland police for the second time this year attacked false claims about missing children in the city, saying reports of bad information are a direct threat to public safety. As of Wednesday, police say the city has 132 missing persons 65 youths and 67 adults. Of the missing youths, 14 are considered endangered, police said. Sharing false information is a direct threat to public safety and causes an immense amount of harm to the family members of the persons that we are tirelessly working to bring home, the department said in a statement. We encourage our citizens to check their sources of information and stay informed with credible outlets. The department released the statement after a post on Fox News website said more than 1,000 kids were reported missing in Cleveland this year, including 50 who seemingly disappeared. The story was widely shared on social media The attorney generals website says at least 45 youths have been reported missing from the Cleveland-Akron area. Cleveland police said 49 of the 65 missing youths are either habitual runaways or not endangered. Two of the youths are about to be taken out of the reporting system, though police did not explain why. One youth, Keshaun Williams, 15, has been missing for more than 90 days. He was last seen on June 17 in Clevelands Slavic Village neighborhood. Of the 67 adults who are missing, 16 are considered endangered, according to police. This is the second time this year Cleveland police addressed misleading information online surrounding missing children. In mid-June, Cleveland police investigated 1,072 cases of missing kids. At least 1,020 had returned home, Chief Wayne Drummond had said. Since February 2022, the police department has handled over 4,000 missing person reports. Last year, the department solved 99% of cases. This year, 94% of cases have been solved. Yost told WEWS in Cleveland that inconsistencies arise from the issue of updating reports. For instance, when children who are habitual runaways return home, their parents may fail to report that to police. All of these things have localized reporting problems that again are a function of local conditions, Yost said to ABC 5 News in an interview. We do our best to encourage compliance and to provide assistance to remove barriers but at the end of the day we have to rely on our local partners who we dont control. WASHINGTON, D. C. - Top Republicans in the House of Representatives, including Ohios Jim Jordan, laid out their reasons for conducting an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden at a fractious hearing on Thursday that Democrats dismissed as an effort to distract from an upcoming government shutdown caused by their failure to fund the government. As Democrats pointed laptops that displayed a countdown to the Republican Shutdown towards the audience at Thursdays hearing, House Oversight and Accountability Committee Chair James Comer of Kentucky declared his investigators uncovered a mountain of evidence, revealing how Joe Biden abused his public office for his familys financial gain, and how his family sold access to the vice president. This is a tale as old as time, said Jordan, a Champaign County Republican who chairs the House Judiciary Committee. A politician takes action that makes money for his family, and then he tries to conceal it. Jordan said Bidens son, Hunter, was placed on the board of a Ukrainian natural gas company called Burisma, even though he was unqualified and only got the post because of his last name. Jordan said Burisma had trouble with a prosecutor in Ukraine, and Joe Biden gave a 2015 speech in Ukraine that helped get the prosecutor fired. Jordan also criticized the Justice Department for slow walking an investigation into Hunter Bidens conduct, and trying to put together a sweetheart deal that would give him a light sentence on tax and gun charges. He accused the White House of making all kinds of false statements that suggested that Joe Biden never spoke to his son about his overseas business deals. Dayton GOP Rep. Mike Turner, who chairs the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, said he was concerned about Joe Bidens mishandling of classified documents during his time as vice president. He said the White House hasnt provided information requested regarding classified materials found at his home, where Hunter Biden resided during the time period relevant to the investigation. Obviously, his son was receiving payments from Romania, Russia, Ukraine, China, said Turner, who said he wanted to know if those documents contained information relevant to any of the parties or individuals that were making payments to Hunter Biden. The only Ohio Democrat on the committee, Shontel Brown of Warrensville Heights, said Republicans were conducting a baseless impeachment inquiry, lacking facts and foundation to distract the American public from the failure of the GOP-controlled House to pass legislation that would fund the government and avert a shutdown on Oct. 1. This preventable shutdown threatens the livelihood of millions of federal workers, small business owners, seniors and veterans, all of whom live in the districts of every member on this committee, said Brown. In my home state of Ohio, nearly 60,000 federal workers will either be furloughed or forced to work without pay. I cannot overstate the impact this Republican shutdown will have on mothers and babies receiving WIC in Ohio. There are 180,000 women, children and infants whose benefits will be at risk. She accused House Republicans of prioritizing political warfare over peoples welfare. She said the Department of Justice and the FBI under former President Trump spent five years looking into these Republican conspiracy theories and Republicans are resurrecting them in a vain attempt to deflect from the chaos and confusion they are causing. The hearing was interrupted several times when Democrats forced votes on whether to subpoena former Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani for the inquiry. Republicans who control the committee voted them down. Democrats also highlighted the foreign business ties of former President Donald Trump and his family members, and accused Republicans of using the hearing to distract from Trumps upcoming criminal trials. If the Republicans had a smoking gun, or even a dripping water pistol, they would be presenting it today, but theyve got nothing on Joe Biden, said the top Democrat on the Oversight and Accountability Committee, Marylands Jamie Raskin. At one point in the hearing, Raskin questioned whether a visual aid being shown by Georgia Republican Marjorie Taylor Greene was pornographic. She said it was a woman in a bathing suit. In response to a question from Brown, a Democratic witness at the hearing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill law professor Michael J. Gerhardt, said Republicans have not been able to connect the dots between Joe Biden and alleged misconduct by his son, Hunter Biden. The name repeated most often in this hearing is Hunter Biden, not President Biden, said Gerhardt. And the point of an impeachment inquiry is not about the presidents son. It has to be about the president himself. I dont think those dots have been connected. There have been lots of assumptions, lots of accusations, but not evidence. None of the hearing witnesses were involved in the investigation or had independent knowledge of Biden family activities. They testified as subject matter experts. George Washington University law school professor Jonathan Turley, a GOP witness, told the committee he doesnt believe current evidence would support articles of impeachment against Joe Biden but that the inquiry is warranted. He said that courts have determined money going to family members is, in fact, a benefit. He told Jordan that there would be a stronger case against Biden if there was a direct payment to him, but this idea that you can have millions going to a politicians family and thats not a benefit, I think thats pretty fallacious. It seems abundantly clear from these emails, and statements and now sworn testimony that Hunter Biden and his associates were selling access to Joe Biden, Turley told Jordan. And the question is, whether any of that effort resulted in decisions and changes being made by Joe Biden and also the degree to which he knew of it, directed it, encouraged it. Thats all the subject of an inquiry that has to be determined. It can be disproven or proven, but thats what lays ahead of you. Sabrina Eaton writes about the federal government and politics in Washington, D.C., for cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer. Rotunda Rumblings Reformers react: Backers of a proposal to replace the elected officials in charge of drawing Ohios political maps with a citizens commission are panning the new bipartisan maps that a state panel approved late Tuesday. Maureen OConnor, a retired Republican Ohio Supreme Court chief justice whos a leader of the redistricting reform amendment effort, called the new maps a bipartisan gerrymander suggesting that both parties cant be trusted. Andrew Tobias reports that its an open question though, whether the bipartisan agreement could give ammunition to Republicans who hope to persuade voters next year to reject the reform measure, if and when it appears on the November 2024 ballot. Deal makers: During Ohios last redistricting cycle in 2021 and 2022, Democrats on the Ohio Redistricting Commission repeatedly refused to vote for state legislative maps passed by the Republican majority, saying they were too gerrymandered to support. But on Wednesday, the commissions two Democratic members cut a deal with Republicans and voted to pass a redistricting plan that, while tweaked to help Democrats compared to an initial GOP proposal, could preserve the GOPs Statehouse supermajorities for the next eight years. Jeremy Pelzer spoke with several individuals involved with the redistricting process as negotiations played out behind closed doors to determine why the Democrats cut a deal. Day in court: The state asked the Ohio Supreme Court on Wednesday to rule that abortion clinics and a doctor who are plaintiffs in the case challenging the fetal heartbeat law be removed. They also want the Ohio Supreme Court to force the Ohio 1st District Court of Appeals to take an appeal over a temporary injunction that blocks the state from enforcing the law. Abortion providers told the court they have the right to be listed as plaintiffs since criminal, civil and licensing penalties could come with violating the law and they represent patients who would be affected by the law, Laura Hancock reports. Fast track: The Ohio Senate approved a bill that would block Clevelands proposed Peoples Budget charter amendment from taking effect if city voters approve it in November. Andrew Tobias reports that the bill was fast-tracked through committee before hitting the Senate floor on Wednesday, passing with a 25-6 vote. It will need a supermajority in the Ohio House and Gov. Mike DeWines signature if its to become law in time to preempt the amendment, which would set aside a portion of the citys budget for residents to choose how to spend it. What dark money? The Ohio Senate on Wednesday confirmed a former FirstEnergy lobbyist who was implicated at the criminal trial of ex-Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder. Jake Zuckerman reports Dan McCarthy, who launched a dark money nonprofit that delivered $15 million from the company to a Householder-controlled account, will now help regulate horse racing in Ohio. Marijuana banking advances: The U.S. Senates banking committee, chaired by Ohios Sherrod Brown, on Wednesday signed off on legislation that would let cannabis companies access the banking system, the furthest such legislation has ever gone in the U.S. Senate, Sabrina Eaton writes. The legislation, introduced by Oregon Democrat Jeff Merkley and Montana Republican Steve Daines, would let financial institutions do business with the legal cannabis industry without running afoul of federal laws that currently block their access because the federal government considers marijuana illegal. Impeachment watch: Republicans who control the House of Representatives will kick off an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden days before a looming deadline to find a legislative solution to keep the government open after current funding expires on Oct. 1, Eaton reports. Members of the committee include Champaign County GOP Rep. Jim Jordan, who chairs the House Judiciary Committee that would be charged with drafting and voting on any articles of impeachment, as well as Democratic U.S. Rep. Shontel Brown of Warrensville Heights. Tit for tat: Jordan on Wednesday accused the Georgia district attorney who indicted ex-President Donald Trump of focusing on advancing a political cause and her own notoriety instead of fairly administering the law as he demanded a response to his committees inquiries, Eaton writes. Willis has condemned the efforts he calls oversight as an attempt to interfere with an active Georgia criminal case, a move she described as flagrantly at odds with the Constitution. His latest letter insisted his committee has a strong legislative interest in ensuring that popularly elected local prosecutors do not misuse their law-enforcement authority to target federal officials for political reasons. We can only conclude from your hostile response to the Committees oversight that you are actively and aggressively engaged in such a scheme. Tax glitch: Sen. Brown this week asked the Internal Revenue Service to assist low- and middle-income taxpayers who were harmed when the IRS destroyed 30 million information return documents in 2021, Eaton reports. IRS has insisted there were no negative taxpayer consequences after it erased 2019 documents from its computer to make room for new documents for the next tax season, but Brown and others say the destruction meant the agency couldnt confirm eligibility for some Earned Income Tax Credit applicants because it couldnt access their income proof. Vance dissents: Amid a government funding stalemate in the GOP-controlled U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate on Tuesday voted 77-19 to start considering its own bill that would fund the government through Nov. 17, and devote roughly $6 billion each to disaster relief and the Ukraine war effort. U.S. Sen. JD Vance, a Cincinnati Republican who opposes Ukraine war funding, was among the no votes, posting on social media that Democrats wont fix our border but will shut down the government unless we fund Ukraine. Men of steel: Sen. Brown joined with Alabama Republican U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville on Wednesday to introduce legislation called the Increasing American Ferrosilicon Production Act that would support U.S. production of ferrosilicon, which is used to make some types of steel, and to increase duties on Russian imports. They said Russia currently accounts for 40% of all ferrosilicon imports, which suppresses American production and associated jobs. U.S. producers in Ohio, Alabama, and elsewhere have indicated they could increase production to make up the loss of Russian market share, creating jobs and economic growth in American communities. Paul Lojek of Ferroglobe, a company that produces ferrosilicon in Beverly, Ohio, told reporters their legislation would strengthen U.S. manufacturing and U.S. security, making us less dependent upon foreign nations. Post office renaming: U.S. Rep. Dave Joyce, a South Russell Republican, recently introduced bipartisan legislation that would rename the Chesterland, Ohio, post office the Sgt. Wolfgang Kyle Weninger Post Office Building after a graduate of Kenston High School in Chagrin Falls who died at age 28 after a 2020 military training accident. Sgt. Weninger made the ultimate sacrifice for his country and his memory should be honored, particularly in the community where he grew up, said a statement from Joyce. Borderline crisis: Joyce on Wednesday kicked off the House of Representatives floor debate on a spending bill to fund Homeland Security by accusing the Biden administration of sending a message to cartels and migrants that the border is open, and therell be no current consequences if you cross illegally. Joyce, who chairs the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, said the bill would provide $62.8 billion to the Department of Homeland Security in 2024, a $2.1 billion dollar increase over 2023 levels. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York said passing Joyces bill wont stave off a government shutdown when funding expires on Oct. 1, and urged the House to adopt a bipartisan temporary funding bill thats working its way through the U.S. Senate. Intel incentive: The state has kicked in $600 million to help facilitate a massive microchip plant in central Ohio. Mark Williams reports in The Columbus Dispatch that award announced Monday is part of $2 billion in state and local incentives that helped lure Intels $20 billion investment in two factories in Licking County, just outside Columbus. Intel has said it would create 3,000 jobs with payroll totaling $405 million a year by the end of 2028. PG-3 years: Federal prosecutors who won the bribery conviction of P.G. Sittendfeld want a judge to sentence the former Cincinnati city councilman to as much as 3.5 years in prison. Kevin Grasha and Sharon Coolidge report in The Cincinnati Enquirer that prosecutors asked for Sittenfeld to be put behind bars for 33 to 41 months, but his attorneys asked the judge for no incarceration. Sittenfeld was convicted of bribery and attempted extortion, but he was found not guilty on other counts. Full Disclosure Heres five things we learned from the March 28 financial disclosure statement of state Rep. Scott Wiggam, a Wooster Republican. Along with his legislative salary, he earned less than $1,000 during the year in interest from a savings account He disclosed investments worth at least $1,000 each in an array of 34 mutual funds, retirement accounts and common stock holdings. Some of the stocks include Tesla, Exxon Mobil, Shell, and Ford Motor Co. He owed at least $1,000 during the year to Citibank and Apply Creek Bank He didnt disclose any meals bought by lobbyists Christian Health Ministries bought him $25 worth of CHM merchandise and a couple of books On The Move Anna Staver, a reporter for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau based in Columbus, will succeed Ann Fisher as the host of All Sides, WOSU-FMs weekday morning public-affairs talk show. Birthdays Ex-state Sen. Lou Terhar Straight From The Source I dont think there should be term limits. I think that was probably one of the worst ideas in the history of the state. I think it emboldens and empowers two specific groups: the bureaucracy and the lobbying community. -- Senate President Matt Huffman, a Lima Republican, speaking to reporters after a floor session Wednesday. The Republican-backed initiative to institute term limits came in 1992. Members of the Ohio Statehouse can serve up to eight years (four terms for representatives and two terms for senators.) Capitol Letter is a daily briefing providing succinct, timely information for those who care deeply about the decisions made by state government. Subscribe to get Capitol Letter in your email box each weekday for free. Hong Kong: Wealth management link upgraded The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today welcomed a decision to further enhance the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Cross-boundary Wealth Management Connect Pilot Scheme. The decision was jointly announced by the People's Bank of China, the National Administration of Financial Regulation, the China Securities Regulatory Commission, the State Administration of Foreign Exchange, the Monetary Authority and the Securities & Futures Commission of Hong Kong as well as the Monetary Authority of Macau. The financial regulatory authorities of the Mainland, Hong Kong and Macau will enhance the Wealth Management Connect along five directions. The directions include: refining the eligibility criteria of investors to support more Greater Bay Area residents to participate in the scheme, expanding the scope of participating institutions to include eligible securities firms, expanding the scope of eligible investment products, increasing the individual investor quota as appropriate, and further enhancing cross-boundary promotion and sales arrangements. The implementation arrangements and operational guidance will be refined to enact the measures as soon as practicable. Noting that the Wealth Management Connect has been growing steadily since its launch in September 2021, Financial Secretary Paul Chan said the enhancement measures will further enrich the investment options of Greater Bay Area residents and promote mutual access of the financial markets of the three places, which is conducive for the industry to explore business opportunities in the bay area. These measures can further realise the potential of the Wealth Management Connect while enhancing Hong Kong's position as an international asset and management centre, he added. I am most grateful to the Central People's Government for the support, and the regulators of the three places for their efforts in taking forward the initiative. This story has been published on: 2023-09-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Solomon Islands PM calls on U.S. to respect Pacific leaders: local media Xinhua) 13:43, September 28, 2023 SYDNEY, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare on Wednesday called on the United States to show more respect to Pacific leaders at the U.S.-Pacific Islands Forum Summit, according to Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation. The summit held last year did not bring the expected outcomes as promised, Sogavare said during a press conference, adding that the U.S. strategies "need to be changed and respect Pacific leaders by giving them more time to discuss matters of concern and interest during such summits." Sogavare defended his decision to not sit in at this year's summit, believing that domestic affairs are more important for him as the prime minister. "There are only 10 weeks left before parliament dissolves, and we have many bills before parliament. These are issues that are more important to me as the Prime Minister of Solomon Islands than attending the summit," he said. The second U.S.-Pacific Islands Forum Summit was held on Monday at the White House. Instead of staying in the United States to participate in the summit, Sogavare returned to his country after attending the 78th United Nations General Assembly session in New York. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Costco CEO Craig Jelinek told CNBC's Jim Cramer on Wednesday that his company is drawing more young people to its membership base. "We're seeing more younger people sign up, absolutely," Jelinek said. "What you don't see is their purchases. They're slightly going up as they become longer members, but initially the purchasing power from the younger generation compared to the boomers or [Generation] X is a little bit different in what they're buying." Costco is unique to most retailers due to its membership model. Customers must sign up for a membership which can cost either $120 or $60 a year in order to enter the store and buy items. Jelinek said the younger demographic some of whom may not have started their own families may be purchasing less merchandise than older generations. But he stressed that Costco is not a "margin house" but a "volume house." "Our concept has always been sell merchandise for the lowest possible price, how much you could lower the price, not how you can make more margin," he said. "And that's the way we run our business." Jelinek also touched on one of the retail warehousing giant's newest products, gold bars. He said these bars are priced at $2,000 and that they sell out very quickly on the company's website because of their value. According to Jelinek, Costco takes less than a 1% markup on the gold, and that the product drives more shoppers to the website. watch now CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. Former President Donald Trump attempted to woo blue-collar autoworkers Wednesday night by criticizing electric vehicles and warning of what he claimed is a forthcoming demise of the U.S. auto industry, as he asked United Auto Workers members to encourage union leaders to endorse him. "Tell your UAW leaders no problems with them but they have to endorse Trump," he said Wednesday night during an auto worker-focused rally at a nonunion auto parts supplier in suburban Detroit. Trump, the front-runner among Republicans in the 2024 presidential race, many times encouraged the UAW to endorse him during the roughly hourlong speech. He did so by mocking President Joe Biden and promising to save the U.S. automotive industry from what he described as being wiped out in the coming years due to current Democrat policies, including a push for EVs. At one point, Trump said he doesn't mind EVs, but he believes consumers should be able to choose between such vehicles as well as traditional gasoline and diesel models. He condemned Biden's goal to have half of new vehicles sold by 2030 be EVs as well as the auto industry's current dependency on China for batteries and other components. Former U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during an autoworker-focused campaign rally at auto supplier Drake Enterprises, on Sept. 27, 2023 in Clinton Township, Michigan. Michael Wayland / CNBC "If you want to buy an electric car, that's absolutely fine. I'm all for it," Trump said. "But we should not be forcing consumers to buy electric vehicles they don't want to buy." Trump's visit occurred as the UAW continued targeted strikes against General Motors , Ford Motor and Stellantis . The sides failed to reach tentative agreements by an 11:59 p.m. Sept. 14 expiration of contracts for 146,000 UAW members with the Detroit automakers. Currently, about 18,300 UAW members with the Detroit automakers are on strike, with the union warning of additional strikes without substantial progress in the talks by Friday. Trump mentioned the striking union workers and negotiations several times during his speech, largely focused on how the negotiations won't matter if the auto industry gets wiped out. "It doesn't make a damn bit of difference what you get because in two years you're all going to be out of business," Trump said. A UAW spokesman declined to comment on Trump's remarks after the event, which the former president attended instead of the second GOP debate. watch now An aerial view of New Orleans can be seen from a drone above the Mississippi River on April 1, 2023 in New Orleans, La. Ricky Carioti | The Washington Post | Getty Images President Joe Biden on Wednesday declared a federal emergency for a saltwater intrusion in the Mississippi River, which is threatening New Orleans' water infrastructure. A lack of rainfall has led to lower levels of fresh water in the Mississippi River, which has allowed the denser saltwater layer beneath to rise upstream over the past two months. Usually, the strength of the river flow in tandem with an underwater sill work to keep the saltwater at bay. But on Monday, the saltwater overtopped the sill, entering the drinking water of Plaquemines Parish in Louisiana. That same day, Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards sent a request to Biden to declare the situation a federal emergency so that the state could draw on funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Biden's Wednesday approval comes as officials scramble to keep the saltwater from infiltrating more neighborhoods along the Mississippi Valley, which could leave many residents without potable water. A visual of the Mississippi River's underwater sill built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in July, which the Sewage and Water Board used in a presentation to the New Orleans City Council on Sept. 27. Photo courtesy of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers New Orleans District As it stands, drinking water in New Orleans "is safe," according to the Sewage and Water Board of New Orleans, or SWBNO. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects that two New Orleans water treatment plants will be affected by the end of October: the Algiers Water Treatment Plant on Oct. 22 and the Carrollton Water Treatment Plant on Oct. 28. In the meantime, New Orleans residents have been left wondering how much longer they'll have access to drinkable water. Some have fled to stores in panic to strip the shelves of single-use water bottles, though government officials have urged consumers to remain calm, assuring them that there will not be a water bottle shortage. "When you go to the grocery stores, the water aisles are wiped out," said Jesse Keenan, a professor of real estate and urban planning at Tulane University. Mia Miller, a resident of New Orleans' Bywater neighborhood, admits to having picked up a couple of extra liters of bottled water herself: "You don't want to be caught unaware or be the person who was like, 'Oh, this isn't going to be a problem.'" But for Miller, like for many New Orleanians, preparing for disaster is just another day in the life. Miller is more concerned that the city's infrastructure may not be equipped to handle this intrusion. New Orleans City Councilmember Joseph Giarrusso said that the saltwater surge could lead to a loss of adequate water access for residents, especially those in poorer neighborhoods, hospitals and dialysis centers, hotels, local businesses and more. "The thing I'm worried about more is if we reach...a worst case scenario, how long is it going to affect people, particularly for poor people and for businesses that are trying to make their way? How do they manage all of these costs, and yet another unexpected expense?" said Giarrusso. Solutions under consideration At a New Orleans City Council meeting on Wednesday, councilmembers, officials from the SWBNO and from the Department of Homeland Security discussed possible response strategies. One method would use barges to import massive amounts of freshwater to dilute the water coming into treatment plants so that it can be used for bathing and other non-potable instances. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has also been working to build the underwater sill higher to delay the saltwater from progressing further upstream. Another proposal is the construction of a pipeline, which would deliver fresh water from further up the river to affected areas downstream. The SWBNO said in the meeting that the estimated cost of the pipeline is $100 to $250 million, which would draw on FEMA funding, though there is no set timeline for when it might be finished. "They're saying that they can get this thing built in 30 days, which is when we should feel the impacts of the saltwater intrusion," said Councilmember Lesli Harris. "Making sure that there's a date certain on which the construction begins is something that I would like information on." Precedented circumstances The saltwater threat in New Orleans is not unprecedented. A similar intrusion took place in 1988, though it only lasted several days before rainfall restored the Mississippi River to regular conditions. In more recent years, saltwater has drifted higher upstream but not to the extent of the past week. Some New Orleanians are wondering why the city is always playing defense, despite the warning signs of saltwater intrusion in years past. "The hard part about managing the city is you don't want to over-prioritize resources for something that isn't an issue yet," said Councilmember Giarrusso. "But there's always deferred maintenance and now we are dealing with climate change. We're seeing more stories about saltwater intrusion in other places. And so, it's time to pivot towards having a contingency plan." "We're always playing the response game," said Miller of Bywater. "You can't just put a band-aid on every time something happens." Stephen Murphy, the director of Tulane University's Disaster Management Program, agreed: "We need to really think about how we're going to handle this in the future because we can't just continue this process of responding. We need to get out in front of this next time." This time around, the situation appears different than 1988. Forecasts of low precipitation in the area do not bode well for restoring the river. According to Murphy from Tulane University, 10 inches of rainfall, which could take months, is needed to return the river back to normal levels of fresh water. "Mother Nature moves at a different rate. She doesn't play by our playbook often," says Murphy. The climate change connection President Joe Biden delivers remarks on democracy during an event honoring the legacy of late U.S. Senator John McCain at the Tempe Center for The Arts in Tempe, Arizona, on Sept. 28, 2023. President Joe Biden in Phoenix on Thursday warned of the perilous state of American democracy and honored his late friend, Republican Sen. John McCain. "We know how damaged our institutions of democracy our judiciary, the legislature, the executive have become in the eyes of the American people, even the world, from attacks within, the past few years," Biden said. "We should all remember: Democracies don't have to die at the end of a rifle," Biden said. "They can die when people are silent when they fail to stand up or condemn threats to democracy." It was the fourth such speech on democracy Biden has made during his presidency, the first of which was delivered on the first anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot. Biden spoke at Arizona State University, home of the McCain Institute, where he announced that funding from the American Rescue Plan will be used to build a McCain Library in partnership with the institute. "There is something dangerous happening in America: There is an extremist movement that does not share the basic beliefs of our democracy the MAGA movement," Biden said. The speech touched on a core tenet of Biden's reelection pitch: Another term is key to preserving democratic institutions under fire from Donald Trump, the former president and current 2024 Republican nomination front-runner. At a campaign fundraiser this month in New York, Biden warned that American democracy will be in peril if a Republican wins the White House in 2024, saying GOP candidates are "determined to destroy democracy." His speech Thursday comes a day after a group of Republican candidates debated in California, without Trump. Biden said McCain was representative of the old guard of Republicans and was willing to put his country over his party. The two men became friends during their tenure in the Senate. The friendship continued after McCain lost the 2008 presidential contest to Barack Obama, whose vice president was Biden. "Not every Republican not even the majority of Republicans adhere to the extremist MAGA ideology," Biden said. "I know because I've been able to work with Republicans my whole career," the president said. "But there is no question that today's Republican Party is driven and intimidated by MAGA extremists. Their extreme agenda, if carried out, would fundamentally alter the institutions of American Democracy as we know it." The speech also comes amid Republican dysfunction on Capitol Hill where a handful of extremist GOP House members are holding up votes on government funding, risking a government shutdown at midnight Saturday. The Orbital Reef space station partnership between Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin and Sierra Space is on rocky footing, CNBC has learned. The companies announced Orbital Reef as a co-led project in 2021, but updates about the project dried up in the past year. The pair of private space companies are now navigating a potential end to the Orbital Reef partnership, according to three people who spoke to CNBC about the situation. Those people, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss nonpublic matters, emphasized that discussions are ongoing and described the situation as fluid. But other development projects with more significant current contracts such as Blue Origin's Blue Moon lunar lander and Sierra Space's Dream Chaser spaceplane have taken higher priority for both companies, those people said. It's becoming increasingly likely that Blue Origin and Sierra Space will go their separate ways, leaving behind joint efforts to develop Orbital Reef, according to those sources. Shortly after unveiling the Orbital Reef project, Blue Origin won a $130 million contract from NASA for design work on the private space station. That contract was one of three funded Space Act Agreements (SAA) that NASA issued for the first phase of its Commercial LEO Destinations (CLD) program. Blue is the prime contractor under that NASA award, with Sierra as a subcontractor. NASA spokesperson Rebecca Wickes told CNBC in a statement that the agency has so far paid Blue Origin $24 million of the total contract amount for completing specified milestones. As of yet "there are no current plans to transfer the agreement," Wickes said. Sierra did not respond to CNBC's request for comment on Orbital Reef. Neither did Blue Origin, but the company, shortly after being reached by CNBC, posted on social media that it is making "progress on our Commercial Destinations Space Act Agreement with NASA." "Our team is currently testing window frames and materials in a relevant space environment," Blue Origin said, without mentioning Orbital Reef by name. Senator Bob Menendez and his wife Nadine Menendez (not seen) depart a Manhattan court after they were arraigned on federal bribery charges in New York, September 27, 2023. Sen. Bob Menendez of New Jersey vowed again Thursday to remain in the Senate after addressing his fellow Democrats, most of whom say he should resign after a federal bribery indictment. "I will continue to cast votes on behalf of the people of New Jersey as I have for 18 years," Menendez told reporters following his closed-door meeting with the Senate Democratic caucus in the Mansfield Room at the U.S. Capitol. Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, the first Democrat to call for Menendez to step down, in a social media post before the meeting wrote, "Unless Senator Menendez is coming today to resign, I am not interested in hearing his 'explanation' for gold bars stashed in a mattress." Fetterman, who since has been joined by 29 other senators in seeking Menendez's resignation, skipped the meeting. "It's a pattern and he really needs to decide to resign," Fetterman told reporters. "He's clearly not going to have an honorable exit." During the meeting, Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York asked the three Democratic senators on the Ethics Committee, Chris Coons of Delaware, Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire and Hawaii's Brian Schatz, to leave the room, which they did, a source in the room told NBC News. An Ethics Committee into Menendez's conduct is expected. Schumer has not asked Menendez to resign. But other Democratic leaders have, among them Majority Whip Dick Durbin of Illinois, Senate President pro tempore Patty Murray of Washington and Michigan's Debbie Stabenow. A number of House Democrats have also said Menendez should leave, including Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York and Nancy Pelosi of California, the former speaker. Jeffries on Thursday said, "At the end of the day, his fate will be decided by a jury of his peers." "Yet it's hard for me to see how the senator can effectively at this moment represent the people he's ably served for decades in New Jersey," Jeffries said. Menendez, 69, was charged last week in Manhattan federal court with conspiracy to commit bribery and other charges with his wife, Nadine, and three New Jersey businessmen. The couple pleaded not guilty Wednesday to the charges in federal court in Manhattan. Prosecutors have said that a raid on their house last year found not only the gold but also hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash, and a Mercedes-Benz convertible that they allegedly received in exchange for Menendez using his influence to try to help the three men. A Chinese flag is displayed next to a "Made in China" sign seen on a printed circuit board with semiconductor chips, in this illustration picture taken February 17, 2023. Florence Lo | Reuters Revenue from China's top chip equipment makers surged in the first half of the year, research released Thursday showed, as Beijing continues to aim for self-reliance for its semiconductor industry. The top 10 domestic equipment manufacturers logged revenue of around 16.2 billion Chinese yuan ($2.2 billion) in the first half of the year, up 39% year-on-year, according to Shanghai-based CINNO Research. Semiconductors critical components that go into everything from smartphones to satellites have been caught up in the broader technology battle between the U.S. and China. Washington has sought to use export restrictions to cut off Beijing from key semiconductor equipment and technologies. The chip supply chain is incredibly complex and made up of numerous companies, ranging from sellers for design tools for semiconductors to firms involved in manufacturing and relevant machinery. China's domestic semiconductor industry has previously heavily relied on foreign companies for these tools, leaving Beijing's industry behind the likes of the U.S., South Korea and Taiwan. Since 2019, U.S. sanctions on Chinese technology firms such as Huawei and China's biggest chipmaker SMIC , has forced Beijing to boost its domestic industry and seek more self-reliance and wean itself off foreign technology. That has underpinned the boost in revenues for China's domestic chip equipment manufacturing firms. CINNO names Naura Technology Group Co. as the top Chinese semiconductor equipment maker by revenue. The company produces tools required in the chip manufacturing process. Naura operating revenue in the first half of they ear stood at more than 7 billion yuan, up 68% year-on-year and outpacing other companies, CINNO said. The second-largest Chinese domestic player is Advanced Micro-Fabrication Equipment Inc. China (AMEC), which makes machines required for the semiconductor manufacturing process. Revenue rose 28% year-on-year to 2.53 billion yuan in the first half of the year, CINNO said. Every weekday the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer holds a Morning Meeting livestream at 10:20 a.m. ET. Here's a recap of Thursday's key moments. 1. Equities mixed, bond yields climb higher Stocks were choppy Thursday morning following Wednesday's strong intraday reversal that saw the market finish about flat on the day. After initially retreating, the S & P 500 rose about 0.3% in late morning trading. Even so, equities have been largely weighed down by soaring government-bond yields reaching their highest levels in roughly 15 years with that of the 10-year Treasury rising above 4.6%. But Jim Cramer said Thursday that he expects yields to peak soon, which should bolster the stock market. Meanwhile, the market remained oversold, at minus 4.88%, according to the S & P 500 Short Range Oscillator . That means "we are at a level where we have to do some buying," Jim said. We're looking to add to our positions in Procter & Gamble (PG), Broadcom (AVGO) and Stanley Black & Decker (SWK). 2. Watch GE HealthCare Mizuho on Wednesday raised its price target on Club holding GE HealthCare (GEHC) to $94 a share, up from $66.21, while reiterating a buy rating. The firm noted that Japan's health ministry earlier this week approved Biogen (BIIB) and Eisai 's (ESAIY) Alzheimer's treatment, Leqembi, citing significant opportunities for GEHC's imaging technology. Mizuho estimated the potential for roughly 300,000 PET scans in 2026, representing a roughly $400 million opportunity that climbs to $1.8 billion in 2030. More broadly, Mizuho said hospitals may try to get ahead of the coming demand for MRIs by increasing their capital spending by around 5% beginning this year. 3. Stick with Costco, TJX Following Club holding Costco Wholesale 's (COST) standout quarterly results earlier this week, some Wall Street analysts have raised their price targets to above $600 a share. "I share that enthusiasm...I think it's fantastic," Jim said Thursday. The company is doing well, despite some softness in big-ticket discretionary sales, while gaining share with a younger demographic. The company also has plenty of runway to keep adding warehouses. And in an increasingly difficult economic environment for consumers, off-price retail operator and Club name TJX Companies (TJX) remains another retailer to hold as shoppers look for bargains. (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long PG, AVGO, SWK, COST, TJX. 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. Preliminary inflation figures from Germany showed inflation slowing more than expected, with the harmonized data displaying a 4.3% increase in consumer prices since September 2022. It is the lowest level since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Asia-Pacific markets broadly fell overnight after notching some gains on Wednesday as an uptick in Treasury yields and oil prices dented investor sentiment on Wall Street. The benchmark 10-year U.S. Treasury yield hit its highest levels since 2007 and U.S. crude futures popped more than 3% to settle at $93.68 per barrel. U.S. stocks were higher in morning trade for the second-last session of what's turned out to be a weak month and quarter for markets stateside. Non-Chinese brands of electric cars, such as Tesla and BMW , could be examined as part of an ongoing subsidy investigation on China that the European Union kicked off earlier this month. "There's a lot of speculation, but at this stage the scope of this investigation is not decided yet. So we are doing the pre-initiation consultations with Chinese authorities and the scope is still to be determined, so what has been announced so far from the commission side is that, strictly speaking, it does not cover only Chinese brand electric vehicles," Valdis Dombrovskis, executive vice president of the European Commission, told CNBC on Thursday. The EU started a probe into subsidies that China has given to EV makers after gathering evidence of significant distortions in the European market, where vehicles produced in the bloc are facing steep competition from cheaper offerings of products made in China. Authorities in Beijing have criticized what they describe as "protectionist" views from Brussels. "Indeed [the probe] might cover also other electric vehicles, but exact scope, which producers are going to be covered by this, it is not decided at this stage," Dombrovskis said Thursday. The EU investigation could stretch up to 13 months. Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., talks with reporters after a meeting of the House Republican Conference in the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday, September 19, 2023. The House Oversight Committee on Thursday convened its first hearing in the GOP's impeachment inquiry, presenting a panel of Republican-picked witnesses who said while there is no evidence of a crime by Joe Biden, more bank records are needed from the president and his son Hunter to determine if there might be. Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., said the hearing would focus on whether the president "engaged in impeachable offenses under the U.S. Constitution," and earlier this week said House Republicans would present evidence they say they've uncovered about "Biden's knowledge of and role in his family's domestic and international business practices." Democrats argued that Republicans have no evidence of a crime and are simply trying to impeach Biden as retribution for the House having twice impeached Trump. Democrats also ridiculed Republicans for holding a heard as the government careens toward a shutdown as the GOP argues over funding legislation. None of the witnesses were "fact witnesses," meaning none were involved in the investigation or the alleged activities the hearing was discussing. Instead, all three were introduced as experts in their respective fields. Comer said in his opening statement Biden family members and their associates "raked in over $20 million between 2014 and 2019" from foreign sources. "What were the Bidens selling to make all this money? Joe Biden himself," he said. Judiciary chair, Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, called it "a tale as old as time. Politician takes action that makes money for his family and then he tries to conceal it." One of the panel's expert witnesses, law professor Jonathan Turley, acknowledged that the evidence Republicans had gathered so far, however, doesn't prove their case. "I do not believe that the current evidence would support articles of impeachment," he said, but that he does believe it warrants an inquiry. Asked later by Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., where the Republican's evidence is lacking, Turley said on the issue of influence peddling and whether the president was aware of it and "encouraged it." The ranking Democrat at the hearing, Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., said his Republican colleagues were presenting 12,000 pages of bank records that didn't include a "single dime" going to the president. "If the Republicans had a smoking gun or even a dripping water pistol, they would be presenting it today, but they've got nothing on Joe Biden," he said. He also accused them of holding the hearing and shutting down the government at the behest of former President Donald Trump. The House Republicans, Raskin said, were acting "like flying monkeys on a mission for the Wicked Witch of the West." Besides Turley, a law professor at George Washington University who was a witness for Republicans when House Democrats launched their first impeachment inquiry into President Donald Trump in 2019, the GOP witnesses who were testifying before the panel are Bruce Dubinsky, a forensic accountant and Eileen O'Connor, a former assistant attorney general at the Justice Department's Tax Division. The Democrats' witness was Michael J. Gerhardt, a law professor at the University of North Carolina who testified during Trump's first impeachment inquiry. Gerhardt was also a joint Democratic-Republican witness in the lead-up to former President Bill Clinton's impeachment. He criticized the inquiry into Biden as lacking foundation. The hearing turned ugly at times, with Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., twice calling the president's defenses "bull----." Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill., meanwhile, asked Turley about his past support of polygamy and O'Connor about her social media posts, including one that appeared to be promoting a fundraiser for so-called "alternate electors" who've been charged in Michigan. House Republicans have said they are looking into whether Biden improperly aided his son or profited off his business dealings. They've claimed, without evidence, that Biden engaged in a bribery scheme and that he has been involved in his son's business ventures. One committee member, Rep. Glenn Grothman, R.-Wisc., said the allegations against the Biden family are serious, but acknowledged more dots need to be connected. "We have all kinds of smoke, maybe no fire, but there's smoke," Grothman said. The White House has repeatedly rejected the House GOP's assertion that Biden abused the power of his office to enrich his family. On the eve of Thursday's hearing, the White House released a 15-page memo rebutting GOP statements. The White House said, for example, that the alleged bribery scheme is based on an FBI document that included a tip from an unnamed source. The Justice Department investigated the allegation and concluded that there wasn't anything to substantiate it. The White House spokesperson for oversight and investigations, Ian Sams, suggested in a statement Tuesday that Republicans like Comer and House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan of Ohio are simply trying to distract from the looming government shutdown that could begin this weekend if Congress fails to pass a spending bill. "Do Comer and Jordan have any explanation for why they are prioritizing conspiracy theory attacks on President Biden over averting a government shutdown that would inflict real pain on Ohio and Kentucky workers and families? They should focus on doing their jobs to avoid economic disaster not these partisan, D.C. games that have nothing to do with helping Americans' lives," Sams said. The hearing comes at a crucial time for Congress: Lawmakers have been trying to pass government funding legislation ahead of a Saturday night deadline to avoid a shutdown. Many congressional Republicans, however, have indicated they support a shutdown and are shrugging off the consequences. The impeachment inquiry got underway Sept. 12 when House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., directed three committees to launch the investigation in an effort to access the bank records for Biden and his son. Impeachment inquiries are rare in U.S. history. The most recent were the two that Democrats launched in 2019 and 2021, which resulted in two impeachments of Trump, the only president to be impeached more than once. The Senate acquitted him both times. Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., talks with reporters about a possible government shutdown, border security, and other issues, outside his U.S. Capitol office on Tuesday, September 26, 2023. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., on Thursday criticized a short-term Senate government funding bill stoking more fears that a shutdown could take place saying the measure would not bolster border security. "I look at the current Senate bill that does nothing to deal with the border security. Don't take my word for it. The governor of Massachusetts declared a state of emergency," he told CNBC's "Squawk Box," while also noting New York City's increased spending on shelter for migrants. "This is something that Democrats and Republicans want to have done," he said. The Senate earlier this week introduced a bill that would keep the government open through Nov. 17, giving lawmakers more time to reach a deal on a larger budget plan. watch now Chinese firms are playing an increasingly critical role in supplementing Russia's struggling economy and boosting its military capabilities, including via the trade of goods for use on the battlefield in Ukraine, new analysis by CNBC shows. Russian customs data filed as recently as August 2023 point to the continued import of drones, helmets, vests and radios from China, providing a lifeline for President Vladimir Putin's over 18-month war of attrition, and a lucrative avenue for Chinese companies. At the same time, the emergence of less widely documented Chinese exports that are ostensibly for civilian use, including vehicles, construction equipment and synthetic materials, are providing direct and indirect support to Russia's war efforts, analysts told CNBC. "I think there's no question that the Chinese authorities are aware of the trade flows. They're large enough that they could not continue without the acquiescence of the Chinese government," Mark Cancian, senior advisor at Washington-based think tank the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said. Russian President Vladimir Putin and China's President Xi Jinping shake hands after delivering a joint statement following their talks at the Kremlin in Moscow on March 21, 2023. Mikhail Tereshchenko | Afp | Getty Images The defense ministries of China and Russia did not respond to CNBC's request for comment on the trade flows. This trade is happening despite insistence from Beijing that its trade with Moscow constitutes "normal economic cooperation" and that it targets no "third party." Last week, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi confirmed China's continued business cooperation with Russia ahead of a planned meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in October. The comments follow the release in July of a U.S. intelligence report stating that China "has also become an increasingly important buttress for Russia in its war effort, probably supplying Moscow with key technology and dual-use equipment used in Ukraine." Examples of goods supplied included navigation equipment, jamming technology and fight jet parts, it said. Indeed, Kyiv has reported that its forces are increasingly finding Chinese components in weapons used by Russia's military since April 2023 the same month that Putin and Li Shangfu, the Chinese defense minister at the time, reiterated their countries' "no limits partnership." Ukraine's Defense Ministry and the general staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the battlefield findings. Trade of 'dual-use' goods spikes Total bilateral trade between Russia and China hit a record high of $190 billion in 2022, up 30% from 2021. This year is set to eclipse that figure, with total trade hitting $134 billion in the first seven months of 2023. China now accounts for around half (45%-50%) of Russia's imports, up from one-quarter before the war, according to estimates from the Bank of Finland's Institute for Emerging Economies. That includes trade of so-called dual-use items and technologies goods with both civilian and military applications, such as drones and microchips. In 2022, China sold more than $500 million worth of semiconductors to Russia, up from $200 million in 2021. Meantime, China sold more than $12 million worth of drones to Russia in the year to March 2023. Semiconductor sales to Russia from China and Hong Kong more than doubled in 2022 as Western sanctions took hold. CNBC CNBC analysis of Russian declarations and certificates of conformity filed to the Federal Accreditation Service a prerequisite for the import and sale of goods in the country showed the trade of such goods between Russian and Chinese companies from the onset of Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 to present. Such declarations are filed by the buyer rather than the maker of the goods. Drones produced by Chinese multinational SZ DJI Technology were registered in Russia in unspecified volumes on various occasions between September 2022 and January 2023 with imports stemming both directly from the company and indirectly from Chinese exporters including Shenzhen-based Autel Robotics and Iflight Technology translated filings showed. That is despite DJI issuing a statement on its website in April 2023, saying that it had "voluntarily suspended all sales to and business in both Russia and Ukraine as of April 26, 2022 and contractually forbid any sales by dealers to either country and for combat use." A DJI Inspire 1 Pro drone is flown during a demonstration at the SZ DJI Technology Co. headquarters in Shenzhen, China, on Wednesday, April 20, 2016. Qilai Shen | Bloomberg | Getty Images When contacted by CNBC, a DJI spokesperson said: "We take regulatory compliance very seriously, and we have taken all steps in our control to emphasize that our products should not be used in combat to cause harm or be modified to be turned into weapons." One of the importers of the drones, Moscow-based Nebesnaya Mekhanika, which roughly translates as "Heavenly Mechanics" and which, before the war, was DJI's official distributor in Russia, submitted its filing in September 2022, the documents showed Another importer, Moscow-based Vodukh, also registered an unspecified number of lithium ion and lithium polymer batteries and an unknown number of battery stations directly from DJI in Jul. 2023 and Nov. 2022, respectively, according to the records. Such items can be used to power goods ranging from small electronic devices to electric vehicles. A third, Rostov-on-Don-registered Pozitron, additionally imported more than 54,000 helmets either construction or military, according to the vague wording of the filing from Chinese suppliers Liaoning B&R Technology and Beijing KRnatural International Trade Co in late 2022. What we are seeing is that Chinese companies are selling to Russia what they maybe can't sell in China or the West at a higher price. Antonia Hmaidi analyst at the Mercator Institute for China Studies Defense analyst Cancian said it was apparent that such goods have been a critical facet of Russia's military arsenal. "They (Russia) have been firing, for example, artillery at the rate of 10,000 to even 20,000 rounds a day. To keep up that level of expenditure, they need to get some help from the outside," he said. "They also started running out of cruise missiles. Their stocks were pretty much exhausted within the first six months or so, so they've been able to manufacture additional cruise missiles with components provided by the Chinese," he added. Helmets and vests were also procured in batches of 100,000 each in Nov. 2022 from Shanghai-headquartered Deekon (Shanghai) Industry Co., a manufacturer of military products and police equipment, by Moscow-based Legittelecom, the documents showed. Legittelecom, which, according to its website, provides consulting services on permits for the "import, export and sale of radio electronics and high-frequency devices," also imported an unknown number of portable radios, or walkie-talkies, from wireless communications company Hong Kong Retekess in March 2023. It was not clear from the documents if Legittelecom was the end user of the products, or to whom it was providing the permits, though Chinese-made radios have been recovered from Ukraine's battlefield. The companies did not respond to CNBC's request for comment on the transactions. However, analysts said the irregular import patterns suggest there is opportunism among businesses on both sides as they seek to take advantage of Moscow's military needs. A Russian military radio produced by Chinese manufacturer Baofeng is displayed during an open-air exhibition of destroyed Russian military equipment and tactical gear on June 15, 2023 in Kyiv, Ukraine. Global Images Ukraine | Getty Images "What we are seeing is that Chinese companies are selling to Russia what they maybe can't sell in China or the West at a higher price," said Antonia Hmaidi, an analyst at Berlin-based Mercator Institute for China Studies, who has been studying Chinese dual-use exports to Russia since the start of the war. "It's not the big exporters in China exporting this. Instead, it's these small companies," she continued, noting that the implications of Western sanctions targeting such companies would be minimal. "The companies, they don't really have a lot of inherent value, which makes it quite easy to just open another one." Indeed, one company, Silva, was registered in the remote Eastern Siberian region of Buryatia in September 2022, and submitted import filings for 100,000 helmets from Shanghai H-Win New Material in March 2023. More recently, in August 2023, it filed for an unspecified number of radio telemetry systems, which can be used for tracking drones, from Hubei Jingzhou Mayatech Intelligent Technology. Hmaidi cited another example of a Hong Kong company, established in 2020, which used to supply North Korea and has now added Russia to its books. Pyongyang, for its part, has been strengthening ties with Moscow, with the countries' leaders meeting in Russia's far eastern Amur region earlier this month amid Western suspicions that North Korea may be readying to provide Russia with war materiel. CNBC contacted or attempted to contact all of the companies mentioned and received no response. 'Underappreciated' trade flows As well as goods with overt military applications, Russia has also increased it imports of Chinese goods with potential direct and indirect war implications, according to analysts. Chinese shipments to Russia of Aramid fiber, for instance, a class of heat-resistant synthetic fibers whose applications range from bicycle tires to bulletproof vests, rose more than 350% in dollar value terms in 2022 versus 2021, according to data compiled for CNBC by ImportGenius, a customs data aggregator. In January and February of 2023 alone, imports were close to 50% of 2022's full-year total. Meantime, construction equipment has played an "underappreciated" but significant role in China's contribution to Russia's war efforts, having helped bolster its defenses against Ukraine's counteroffensive, Joseph Webster, senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, said. "Excavators and front-end shovel loaders are one of the most significant and frankly underappreciated aspects of China's engagement with the war in Ukraine," said Webster, who has studied the surge in such exports. There was a massive increase in trench digging equipment to Russia ... and that's almost certainly not a coincidence. Joseph Webster senior fellow at the Atlantic Council "There was a massive increase in trench digging equipment to Russia at a time when the Russian military forces were digging trenches. And that's almost certainly not a coincidence," he added. Russian imports of Chinese earth-moving front-end shovel loaders were almost two times higher, and imports of excavators more than three times higher, in the first seven months of 2023 than during the same period a year prior, trade data showed. Imports of Chinese heavy-duty trucks more broadly were up 11 times in value terms between January and May 2023 compared to the same period in 2021, with some identified on the battlefield and others used indirectly. In June, a video featuring the head of Russia's Chechen Republic, Ramzan Kadyrov, was shared on his official Telegram social media account. In it, he showcases various armored vehicles, including armored personnel carriers that appear to be Chinese "Tiger" vehicles, that he said were being deployed to Russia's so-called special military operation in Ukraine. A general view of the container terminal in Qianwan of Qingdao Port, a port in Shandong Province, China, March 17, 2023. CFOTO | Future Publishing | Getty Images "Even if the Chinese exports aren't directly on the front lines, they're still providing important economic assistance to Russia," said Webster, suggesting that the added fleets could have significant implications in allowing Moscow to balance manufacturing output essential to both its civilian and military populations. "Because Chinese truck exports have supplied the Russian civilian sector with trucks, Kamaz might be able to repurpose production lines for armored vehicles," Webster said of Russia's sanctioned, state-owned truck manufacturer. Chinese government collusion? The findings add to the growing list of Chinese goods and companies reported to be supplying Russia's military, including state-owned enterprises. The U.S.'s July intelligence report cited state-owned China Taly Aviation Technologies and China Poly Technologies among the companies found to be providing Kremlin-linked defense companies with parts, including for Mi-system helicopters found on the frontlines. When asked to comment on the intelligence report and the trade of dual-use goods, China's commerce ministry referred CNBC to its May response to a similar question, in which it dubbed its trading relationship with Russia as one based on "mutual respect and mutual benefit, in which both win." "The Chinese department in charge has made clear China's position on the Ukraine issue on many occasions: China will not add fuel to the fire, let alone take advantage of (the situation)," the ministry added, according to a translation. watch now It follows prior comments from the foreign ministry in April, which said that China would "not provide weapons" to either side in the war, and that it would "control the exports of dual-use items in accordance with laws and regulations." It remains unclear to what extent Chinese authorities are aware of or implicated in the trade. The items being dual-use has thus far left enough room for deniability for China to avoid Western sanctions. Meanwhile, Washington and the EU have both been reluctant to accuse Beijing outright. The White House's National Security Council did not respond to a request for comment on the trade flows. However, analysts noted that there is little indication that Beijing is taking actions to mitigate the sales. Exporters in China who export to Russia are not going to receive penalties for doing so, so long as they don't explicitly violate Western sanctions. Joseph Webster senior fellow at the Atlantic Council The Earth rises above the surface of the moon, as seen from the company's lander in lunar orbit in April 2023. CNBC's Investing in Space newsletter offers a view into the business of space exploration and privatization, delivered straight to your inbox. CNBC's Michael Sheetz reports and curates the latest news, investor updates and exclusive interviews on the most important companies reaching new heights. Sign up to receive future editions. It seems like everyone wants to go to the moon these days, with serious lunar programs underway in China, India, Japan and the United States. One company is pushing to tap two of those markets: Tokyo-based lunar lander company ispace is rebooting its U.S. subsidiary, aiming to be a key transportation provider in the nascent moon business. In Denver, Colorado, ispace is cutting the ribbons today on a new U.S. headquarters. The company's invested over $40 million to date in the subsidiary, which allows ispace to sell to NASA one of the biggest sources of moon money currently without violating export control regulations. While the Japanese side of the company is working on flying its "Series 1" lunar lander again after April's crunching first mission, the U.S. side is developing a separate lander it's now calling "Apex 1.0," scheduled to launch on the company's third overall mission. Ron Garan, named CEO of ispace U.S. in June, is a former NASA astronaut and previously served as senior vice president of high-altitude balloon company World View. Garan's leading the "reboot" of the U.S. division. Though ispace established a Denver office in 2020, the division's been without a leader for about a year, Garan told me. "We had about 50 employees when I took over. We're over 85 right now, and we'll be over 100 by the end of the year," Garan said. While Garan said ispace U.S. is "making tremendous progress," he admitted that "it's been a lot of work" due to technical, cultural and organizational challenges. The company's third mission was scheduled to launch in 2025 but is slipping to 2026. The new Apex 1.0 lander is replacing its previously planned "Series 2" lander, Garan said. Apex 1.0 is designed to carry as much as 300 kilograms of payload to the surface of the moon. That's lower than the 500 kilograms of payload the initial Series 2 design targeted, but still 10 times the capability of ispace's Series 1 lander. "We're really committed to helping to create this commercial market, which is going to be absolutely critical to achieving the vision that we want to achieve on the moon," Garan said. "We're building what are effectively prototypes right now, while in parallel developing the production manufacturing capability to be able to do this on a regular basis." The U.S. ispace team is one of several companies that have won contracts from NASA to deliver science and research cargo to the moon's surface under the agency's Commercial Lunar Payload Services program. In the year ahead, three other U.S. companies Intuitive Machines, Astrobotic and Firefly expect to launch competing missions to the moon's surface. But Garan emphasized he and ispace are "rooting for all the other CLPS players too," because each company's success further opens the market for lunar services. "Part of the reason why there's not excessive demand is because it hasn't really been done yet. We haven't really demonstrated the ability to take commercial payloads to the lunar surface. We're on the verge of that happening," Garan said. "The only way that we get to the point where we're able to have a permanent human presence, able to have a significant number of people living and working on the moon, is to spark a commercial market. We have a lot of companies out there right now that would love to do stuff on the lunar surface or a lunar orbit, but they're not willing to make the investment because it really hasn't been demonstrated yet," Garan added. U.S. President Joe Biden speaks during an event announcing a new White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington, September 22, 2023. House Republicans kick off their impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden on Thursday, but a majority of voters do not believe the process should move forward. In a new national NBC News poll, 56% of registered voters say Congress should not hold hearings to start the process of removing Biden from office, while 39% say it should. The House Oversight Committee is gathering for its first hearing in the inquiry, which Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., announced two weeks ago to investigate Biden's ties to his son Hunter's business dealings, probing what McCarthy described as "allegations of abuse of power, obstruction and corruption." McCarthy's own conference was divided over the impeachment inquiry, and so are voters who are also, unsurprisingly, divided along party lines when it comes to proceedings aimed at removing Biden from office. An overwhelming majority of Democrats (88%) oppose the hearings, while 73% of Republicans support them. Six in 10 independents oppose the hearings, and 29% say Congress should move forward with them. The survey also finds that voter sentiments about impeachment mirror those surrounding possible proceedings to remove President Donald Trump in December 2017, amid the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. The NBC News/Wall Street Journal poll conducted at the time found 54% of voters opposed those hearings and 42% supported them. Unlike in the Trump era, the prospect of Biden's impeachment appears to be less politically motivating for voters. Half of voters say their members of Congress' votes to impeach and remove Biden from office "would make no difference either way" in terms of how they might vote in their local congressional races next year. Back in December 2018, 34% said their lawmakers' votes on whether to impeach Trump would not make a difference. Almost a third of voters (31%) say they would be less likely to vote for a lawmaker who votes to impeach Biden, while 18% say they would be more likely. In fact, Biden's impeachment appears more energizing for Democrats than Republicans, with 60% of GOP voters saying such a vote would not influence their support. Just 35% of GOP voters say support for impeachment would make them more likely to support a lawmaker. But 62% of Democrats say voting to impeach Biden would make them less likely to support a member of Congress. "For whatever reason, it's not generating the same political heat, even amongst Republicans, to actually say they'd be more likely to vote for a candidate on impeachment," said GOP pollster Bill McInturff of Public Opinion Strategies, who conducted the poll with Democratic pollster Jeff Horwitt of Hart Research Associates. The national NBC News poll 1,000 registered voters including 848 contacted by cellphone was conducted Sept. 15-19. It has an overall margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points. You can't always find happiness in the confines of a 9 to 5 job but if you can find meaning in what you do, or at least learn to tolerate it, the benefits are endless. According to Wharton psychologist Adam Grant, employees who understand their work has a meaningful, positive impact on others are not just happier than those who don't; they're more productive, too. Research shows that raises and promotions are more common among people who find their work meaningful. What's more, the studies found, these workers tend to be more resilient, motivated and harder working than their peers. In other words, your happiness at work is a key factor in your success. It's natural to feel that your work has lost its purpose after three whiplash-inducing years of a global pandemic and unpredictable economy, among other stressors, says Nicholette Leanza, a psychotherapist based in Beachwood, Ohio. But re-kindling it should be a top priority. According to Leanza, the most successful people follow one rule to stave off burnout and be happier at work: They make every task at work matter, no matter how small or thankless. "It's non-negotiable," she says. "It might seem simple, but if you can enjoy what you do and find meaning in even the small things, that's the best path to sustainable happiness." Here's how to do it: Arizona republican candidate for governor Kari Lake greets the audience during a stop on the Truth and Courage PAC's Take Back America Bus Tour with Sen. Ted Cruz ahead of the midterm elections, at San Tan Flat in Queen Creek, Arizona, on Oct. 5, 2022. Kari Lake, the Donald Trump acolyte who unsuccessfully ran for Arizona governor in 2022, will launch a candidacy for the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate on Oct. 10. The Arizona contest, in which Sen. Kyrsten Sinema is expected to seek reelection, could determine by a three-way race which party controls the Senate. Lake, who narrowly lost the governor's contest, like Trump continues to deny her defeat was legitimate. The Wall Street Journal first reported Lake's plan to announce her bid for the nomination. A source close to her later confirmed that plan to NBC News. Democrats currently hold a majority in the Senate by a margin of just one vote, thanks to three Independents who caucus with them. Sinema is one of those Independents, having dropped her affiliation as a Democrat in December. Rep. Ruben Gallego is the likely Democratic nominee for Sinema's seat. Speaking at the Conservative Political Action Conference in March, Lake said, "I'm not just the most dangerous politician in America I'm the most dangerous politician in the world because we are not going to let these people win." In this April 2010 file photo, Donald Trump, left, chairman and CEO of the Trump Organization, cuts the ribbon with his children Eric, Ivanka, and Donald Trump Jr. at the opening of the Trump SoHo New York. New York Attorney General Letitia James plans to call former President Donald Trump and three of his adult children to testify at his civil fraud trial set to begin in New York next week, court documents showed. Trump and his company, the Trump Organization, are accused of committing years of fraud by overstating the values of his assets in his annual financial forms. James' lawsuit seeks $250 million. Trump, Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump and Ivanka Trump are among the 28 names on James' list of witnesses to be called in the case. Trump's sons, who are also defendants in the case, have run the company since Trump was elected president in 2016. Also on James' list are Michael Cohen, Trump's former fixer and personal lawyer, and Allen Weisselberg, the former chief financial officer of the Trump Organization. Defense lawyers in the case submitted their own list of 128 witnesses, which also includes Trump and his two oldest sons. The two lists were filed Wednesday to Manhattan Supreme Court Judge Arthur Engoron. A day earlier, Engoron ruled that Trump, his sons and the company were liable for fraud in how they valued numerous real estate properties and other assets. That searing ruling also stripped the defendants and the Trump Organization of their business certificates, and sanctioned multiple defense attorneys for repeatedly making frivolous arguments. Six other claims of action against the defendants remain to be decided by Engoron, who will conduct the trial without a jury. But an appeals court panel is expected to rule as soon as Thursday on Trump's argument that some of the remaining claims be dismissed before trial because they are barred by the statute of limitations. The meeting comes after unconfirmed reports in some Ukrainian and social media that Putin-ally Kadyrov was in a coma and fighting for his life. At the time, the Kremlin said it had no information on Kadyrov's health. In this pool photograph distributed by Sputnik agency, Russia's President Vladimir Putin (L) attends a meeting with Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov (R) in Moscow on September 28, 2023. Elsewhere, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Kyiv needs more weaponry to combat Russian air strikes just as its allies start to look more closely at their own depleted arms stocks. "Our warriors need more means of destroying Russian missiles, [Iranian-made] 'Shaheds' and other combat drones, as well as Russian aircraft," Zelenskyy said in his nightly address. The president added that he was "grateful to everyone in the world who is already helping and is willing to ramp up assistance to our country with the means that can provide more protection against Russian terror." There are concerns that the appetite among international allies to continue supplies of weaponry is waning. Elections in Slovakia, Poland in the next week, and in the U.S. next year, could herald seismic political shifts that change how much weaponry Ukraine receives. In this article Follow your favorite stocks CREATE FREE ACCOUNT VinFast electric vehicles are parked before delivery to their first customers at a store in Los Angeles, March 1, 2023. Lisa Baertlein | Reuters Vietnamese electric vehicle maker VinFast's ambitious plan to deliver as many as 50,000 vehicles this year is "unrealistic," according to one analyst. VinFast said it expects to deliver 40,000 to 50,000 vehicles in 2023 despite a weak global economy. That's almost seven times the 7,400 EVs it sold last year, all in Vietnam. The company delivered only 11,315 vehicles in the first half of this year, of which 7,100 were sold to Green and Smart Mobility, a Vietnamese taxi company controlled by parent Vingroup, the firm said during its second-quarter earnings call on Sept. 21. In April, Green SM launched a pure EV taxi service in Vietnam with VinFast models. Shares of Vingroup, one of the largest conglomerates in Vietnam, closed at 45,200 Vietnamese dong ($1.85) on Wednesday, its lowest level since November 2017, according to Refinitiv data. "More than 50% of EV volume during 1H2023 were to a related company while U.S. volume was less than 200 units raising serious concerns over demand for VinFast's EVs," Shifara Samsudeen, equity analyst at LightStream Research, said in a report published on SmartKarma. Through June, only 137 VinFast EVs all VF8 SUVs were registered in the U.S., according to automotive data provider S&P Global Mobility which CNBC confirmed. U.S. sales aren't expected to improve any time soon. The reputational issues caused by the launch of the VF8 will not be solved by the VF9. David Byrne Analyst, Third Bridge Meanwhile, U.S. rival Tesla and China's XPeng delivered 889,015 and 300,145 electric cars, respectively, during the first half of the year. "VinFast's ambitious EV plan seems unrealistic. It seems unlikely for VinFast to meet its 50,000 EV target for 2023 and our revised forecast suggests there is further downside despite shares dropping more than 50% vs IPO," said Samsudeen. In response to CNBC's request for comment, VinFast said it is "ramping up production to ensure delivery targets in international markets." "Besides, VinFast will soon expand to Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern markets soon, which will also boost our production," the company told CNBC. watch now VinFast, which has yet to make a profit, began trading on the Nasdaq on Aug. 15. Its share price soared more than 250% on the first day of trading, but has since dropped more than 60%. Ambitious plans VinFast has been ramping up its expansion outside of Vietnam this year, in a bid to compete with automakers globally. "We have established our operational facilities, including sales network in Vietnam, North America and Europe, and moving forward, we plan to expand our coverage to Asia-Pacific, Middle East and other potential markets globally," VinFast CEO Le Thi Thu Thuy said during the firm's second quarter earnings call. "We have ambitious plans to deliver seven models in Vietnam, North America, Europe and Asia over 2023 and 2024, such as delivering the VF9 in North America by the end of the year, as well as targeting first delivery of the the VX6 later this year and the the VX7 and VF3 in 2024," said Le. Our U.S. sales are improving at our stores. And with the upcoming addition of dealers, we will likely exceed our plan for the year. VinFast As VinFast expands it needs to compete not only with EV makers like Tesla, but also traditional automakers increasingly focusing on hybrids and EVs. VinFast broke ground at its North Carolina factory in July and said that the facility can produce up to 150,000 vehicles a year in the first phase. However, its U.S. expansion has faced hurdles including delayed deliveries of the VF8 to its first customers and the opening of its North Carolina plant postponed until 2025. "U.S. sales aren't expected to improve any time soon. The reputational issues caused by the launch of the VF8 will not be solved by the VF9," David Byrne, analyst at global investment research firm Third Bridge, said in a note. VinFast said its U.S. sales are improving, adding that "with the upcoming addition of dealers, we will likely exceed our plan for the year." Higher prices Analysts also noted that VinFast's models are not competitively priced. For example, VinFast's VF9 model is priced from $83,000 whereas the Tesla Model X is priced from $68,590 after federal tax credit and gas savings. Additionally, Tesla passenger vehicles qualify for a $7,500 federal tax credit in the U.S., while VinFast vehicles are currently not eligible as they are not built in the U.S. "[This suggests] that it may not as easy as said to increase the sales volume in the U.S. and other foreign markets given more established EV models are selling for a lower price," said Samsudeen. While government subsidies allowed Jordyn Rossignol to keep her child care center in northern Maine afloat during the pandemic, she finally made the wrenching decision in August to shutter because of rising operational costs. That federal aid, which may not have fixed the industry but served as a critical lifeline, is set to expire at the end of this month, putting other day care providers across the U.S. in jeopardy in what industry advocates are calling a "child care cliff." Rossignol, 35, envisions an even more dire scenario. "It's going to be a child care apocalypse," she said. "If someone came to me today and said they wanted to open up a child care center, I'd say, 'Don't do it.' I was in debt, and my health was suffering." "I couldn't keep staff because of pay," she added of the federal money, amounting to about $12,000 a month that still left her struggling as she wrestled with payroll and food and training compliance costs. "I lost my best teacher to go work across the street at a hardware store." A Century Foundation report in June estimated that over 70,000 child care programs, or about one-third of those that relied on funding from the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act passed in March 2021, could close. That amounts to about 3.2 million children losing child care. The potential loss of child care providers would have a profound impact on working parents, with women shouldering the worst of it, but labor and economic experts warn the ripple effect will be far-reaching in ways that those who don't have young children should be just as concerned about. "Our economy is strong. We have a strong labor market, and there has been a decent amount of recovery in terms of our job growth," said Julie Kashen, the director of women's economic justice and a senior fellow at The Century Foundation, a nonpartisan progressive think tank. "But if parents lose their child care, they will have to cut their work hours or leave their jobs altogether," Kashen said. "Fewer people in the workforce means fewer people spending money and the economy will feel it." To stem losses, Kashen said a handful of states, such as Alaska, California, Minnesota and New York, have attempted to steer millions of dollars to benefit child care providers who counted on the federal funding to pay for staff, buy supplies and reduce tuition costs for families. In some states, the crisis is deepening. In June, the GOP-controlled Legislature in Wisconsin voted to end its Child Care Counts subsidy program, with funding to help child care providers expected to be exhausted by February. Some Republican and Democratic lawmakers, however, are proposing alternate solutions. On the federal level, Democratic members of Congress have introduced bills this year to expand federal subsidies for child care providers and create federally funded, but locally run, child care centers. Republicans have resisted continuing the pandemic-era funding, initially meant to be just temporary relief. "At this point, everything is caught up in the government shutdown issue," Kashen said. "If this Congress can act on this before the end of the year, it will make a huge difference." The effects of the loss of funding may not be seen immediately, she added, but will come in waves over the next year as child care centers grapple with whether they can keep operating. As more centers close and those that remain open only increase already-long waitlists for limited spots, some families will have to decide whether one parent will need to stay home to care for their children, said Cathy Creighton, the director of Cornell University's School of Industrial and Labor Relations Buffalo Co-Lab, who has studied child care costs. Often, it falls on the mother to leave her job, Creighton said, putting women at a disadvantage in career advancement, widening gender pay disparities, and affecting their personal income and future benefits. "This just exacerbates already existing inequalities," she added. Jade Lebel, a Maine mother of a 2 -year-old and a 6-month-old, decided she won't return to her job as a teacher after realizing day care would cost a staggering $29,000 a year for her two children. Instead, the family will rely on her husband's income as an engineer. Yet, she worries about the sudden loss from the years she built accruing retirement benefits. "I have seven years' experience in my profession, and I have a really well-established job and the thing is, we still wouldn't be able to afford child care," Lebel, 29, said. Employers in female-dominated industries currently struggling with labor shortages, such as education and nursing, are going to feel the strain, economists say. And while that may force some employers to offer better wages, they may also pass higher costs along to consumers. Employees could see an impact on the workplace as well, as their bosses struggle with filling positions and call on them to pick up more shifts or handle additional responsibilities which, in turn, may contribute to worker burnout. "Child care has been put on the back of parents, but it's a broken market," Creighton said. "It's not a market that can bear the cost. You can't say only if you're wealthy can you send your children to day care. It's not a good model for a democratic society." And as the average retirement age in the U.S. only increases, millenial parents can no longer count on their parents to fill a child care role as in previous generations. "You used to be able to have grandma help today and a neighbor tomorrow," Kashen said. "Now, your village has shrunk." That has some families scrambling to find a solution. Kat Brockschmidt, who works for a youth program nonprofit in upstate New York, said local day care centers have extremely long waitlists, so she and her partner are considering paying another stay-at-home mom to watch their almost 2-year-old while they work. To quit her job, she said, is out of the question. "It's wild to me," Brockschmidt, 32, said. "People go out of their way to say I should have been putting my kid on a waitlist before I knew I was pregnant." Anila Rawasia, a mother of two from Montgomery County, Maryland, said she was floored by the long waitlists for child care centers in her area, but now she's lucky to have found a hybrid job where she can work from home as a recruitment specialist and also has her mother to help care for her 2-year-old son when needed. She said continued government funding of child care providers is necessary, but hopes companies and employers can step up with their own creative solutions for helping parents, whether it's through on-site day cares, subsidizing child care costs or work-from-home flexibility. "The longer we put off a sustainable solution, it's only hurting our country in the long haul," Rawasia said. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 27) A National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) office may soon be established in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates to aid overseas Filipino workers with their legal cases, a lawmaker said during the budget interpellation of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Wednesday. Nueva Ecija Rep. Joseph Violago, the sponsor of the DFA's budget, said it is not easy to establish NBI posts overseas because it needs approval by the host countries, but right now, NBI and DFA agreed to start with Abu Dhabi as an initial site." DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo was present at the House of Representatives plenary interpellation. Violago made the statement after OFW party-list Rep. Marissa Magsino raised concerns over incidents of abuse, illegal recruitment, and human trafficking among Filipino workers abroad. High-profile cases include that of Jullebee Ranara, who was killed by the 17-year-son of her employer in Kuwait in January. The suspect was recently sentenced to 15 years imprisonment. READ: Ranara family displeased with 15-year sentence, DFA eyes increase in damage claims "Kung mayroon tayong NBI post doon, they will be in partnership doon po sa legal na nag iinvestigate ng kanilang (OFW) mga kaso," Magsino said. [Translation: If we have an NBI post there, they will be in partnership with the legal team that is investigating the cases of our OFWs.] She also said OFWs will be assured of a vioice and that the NBI can defend them Violago said the NBI will provide the terms of reference regarding its role in the foreign service post. It will also conduct bilateral negotiations with the Office of Treaty and Legal Affairs of other countries. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) The Senates next probe into a suspected cult linked to trafficking and child abuse will be held in the groups home town in Surigao del Norte, Sen. Ronald Dela Rosa said Thursday. Sa Socorro na siguro. We will go there kasi mas marami silang bibiyahe dito. Alam mo naman hirap din yan sa buhay, mamasahe pa papunta dito, Dela Rosa told reporters in a chance interview after the eight-hour inquiry on Socorro Bayanihan Service, Inc. (SBSI). Dela Rosa said the out-of-town hearing may be held during the congressional break next week, in consultation with Sen. Risa Hontiveros and other members of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality and the Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs. Hontiveros and the Department of Justice have rejected SBSIs pleas to conduct the probe in Socorro. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said people in the town fear for their lives. SBSI has been accused of trafficking, kidnapping, sexually abusing children, training children as soldiers, and practicing child marriages. READ: Socorro cult victims tell stories of authorized rape, 6-year-old soldiers, laws to enter heaven Meanwhile, the Senate held in contempt four of the groups leaders, including its president Jey Rence Quilario, during the first inquiry for lying about the group's activities under oath. They are detained in a Senate facility. READ: Senate orders detention of 4 leaders of alleged Socorro cult Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) The government is launching the clinical care associates upskilling program to address nursing shortage in the country. The program is meant for nursing graduates who have taken the boards but have yet to pass the exams. Under the program, nursing graduates will be allowed to work if they can establish their competencies in certain nursing subjects. They will also have the opportunity to attend tutorials to boost their chances of passing the next board exams. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. attended the ceremonial signing of the program's Memorandum of Understanding in Malacanang on Thursday. "It is a groundbreaking endeavor and I am confident that its a program that will help address the life of healthcare workers in the country today," Marcos said of the program. Marcos encouraged underboard nurses to apply for the program, asking them to take part in the development of the healthcare sector while at the same time working to fulfill their goals. CNN Philippines' Rex Remitio contributed to this story. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Thursday said it is closely monitoring the situation in Socorro, Surigao del Norte amid the issues involving the alleged cult activities of Socorro Bayanihan Services, Inc. (SBSI) in the mountainside. Comelec Chairman George Garcia clarified that the issues being investigated by the Senate are not related to the conduct of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE) to be held on Oct. 30. However, he said it was important for the poll body to keep close watch and anticipate any eventuality. "In the case of Socorro sa Surigao, sa kasalukuyan hindi naman siya related sa eleksyon. Yung issues patungkol sa, yung nandoon na hine-hearing ngayon sa ating Senado, wala po ito patungkol sa eleksyon. Kaya lamang ang atin is mas maganda na ia-anticipate natin ang kahit anong eventually na puwede mangyari. Ang sa amin lang po, sana hindi mapigilan yung pagboto ng ating mga kababayan," he said. [Translation: In the case of Socorro in Surigao, currently, these are not related to the election. The Senate hearings have nothing to do with the elections. But we are anticipating whatever will happen. We remain hopeful people will be able to vote.] RELATED: Alleged Socorro cult denies sexual abuse among minors, defends child marriages Garcia also said the Comelec wants to ensure the safety of voters in the area. He said SBSI members, who are registered voters, need to walk about five kilometers to the nearest polling place. Ang atin pong dapat masigurado, dapat magmula sa kung saan sila nandoon papunta sa eskwelahan, dapat maayos. At makakaboto sila nang walang pressure, nang walang dikta ng kahit na sino. At the same time base sa kalooban nila. And thats the issue sa Socorro. And that is why the Comelec is monitoring closely, the development in Socorro, he added. [Translation: What we have to ensure is that they are safe, starting from when they travel from their homes to the schools. And they can vote without being pressured, without anyone telling them what to do. And that's the issue in Socorro. And that is why the Comelec is monitoring closely, the development in Socorro.] The poll body chief added the Comelec also wants to ensure that BSKE candidates will be allowed to campaign freely, especially in the area occupied by SBSI. Garcia said he is willing to speak with SBSI members to convey the sentiment of the Comelec on the conduct of elections in the area. Willing na willing ako makausap sila para mapahayag po yung sentimiento ng Comelec na sana ano man po yung ibang issues na nagkalat diyan at nalalaman ng buong bansa, sana po hindi maapektuhan ang halalan at ang pagboto ng ating kababayan, he said. [Translation: I am very willing to talk with them to let them know what the Comelec is about, and hope whatever other issues are there will not affect the elections and voters.] Garcia reiterated his instruction to regional Comelec offices that there should be no failure of election in any part of the country. The Comelec said it has received the list of areas concern from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Based on its discussion with the PNP and the AFP, the poll body is not yet considering placing Socorro under Comelec control. At this point, sa mga sa amin pong standards, hindi pa. Tanong paano kung magkaroon ng violence ilalagay natin sa Comelec control? Basta nakakaapekto sa pagboto, then the Comelec will have to interfere, Garcia said. [Translation: It does not meet our standards right now. As for the question if it will be under Comelec control, should there be violence? If it will affect elections, then the Comelec will have to interfere.] Among the grounds of placing an area under Comelec control include history of or current intense rivalries among contending parties, previous declarations, incidence of politically motivated violence, and serious armed threats. Comelec signed a memorandum of agreement with the Department of National Defense (DND) and AFP earlier today to ensure security and neutralization of private armed groups that may cause violence during the BSKE. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) Commission on Elections (Comelec) chairman George Garcia on Thursday promised there will be no failure of elections in any area of the country during the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan polls. Ang commitment ko sa buong bansa at ang instruction natin sa lahat ng local Comelec natin, there should be take note there should be no failure of election in any part of the country. Dapat makapag-hold tayo ng election at all costs, Garcia said in a media briefing. [Translation: My commitment to the entire nation and my instruction to all the local Comelec is that there should be no failure of election in any part of the country. We should hold the election at all costs.] He said this is why the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE) will push through in Negros Oriental, which has had several incidents of politics-related violence, including the assassination of Governor Roel Degamo in March. Maaaring nandyan pa rin sa kalooban nila ang takot [There may still be fear among residents], but we will have to proceed, because that is a test of the ability of Comelec to implement the laws," Garcia added. During the 2022 national polls, the Comelec declared failure of elections in several barangays in Lanao del Sur following reports of poll-related violence. Special elections were held after. Meanwhile, Garcia said they are closely monitoring the situation in Socorro, Surigao del Norte where an alleged cult the Socorro Bayanihan Services Inc. operates and is suspected to be involved in criminal activities, including sexual abuse of minors. The Senate on Thursday began its hearing into the allegations. According to Garcia, they do not yet see the need to include the town in the list of election areas of concern, saying the issues surrounding it are not poll-related. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) Budget officials admitted Thursday it takes the government up to one and a half years to process and release aid to disaster-hit local government units (LGUs) from the national calamity and quick response fund. Four months to one and a half years to be honest, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) chief Amenah Pangandaman said during a Senate Sub-Committee hearing on the agencys proposed 2024 budget. Pangandaman was responding to Sen. Loren Legardas question on how long it would take an LGU to access the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund when it already exhausted its own funding. The secretary said it takes time to process requests as it would have to be recommended first by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and then approved by the Office of the President (OP) before the DBM can release funds. The process is provided under Republic Act 10121 or the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010. According to the DBM, the current years calamity fund has an unreleased balance of 11.2 billion. Maski na may (super typhoon) Goring at lahat ng flooding at problema pero andyan pa rin ang pondo kasi nga ayaw natin ibigay sa tao sa napakahirap na proseso na masalimuot, Legarda said. [Translation: Even if theres Goring and flooding, the fund remains unused because we dont want to release it to our constituents because of the difficult process.] Pangandaman also said there have been cases when an LGU ended up not receiving the funds they needed because the request had already lapsed. The law puts a limit of two years on requests for assistance through the calamity fund. Sen. Sonny Angara said this limitation doesnt make sense. Why is the government prevented from helping someone who clearly needed the help because the government was delayed in giving the help? he said. Pangandaman acknowledged the law should be amended, but Legarda said perhaps it only needs a meeting between the DBM and OCD, which is under the Department of National Defense. Lets do everything possible that [would] not entail legislation to abbreviate the process as long as COA (Commission on Audit) approves it, so that access to the funds will be within three months or less, Legarda added. Kaya nga quick [fund], eh, its not quick at all, masalimuot [it's complicated]. She and Angara asked DBM to submit the steps for accessing the calamity fund and its recommendations to expedite the process. The sub-committee then approved DBMs 2024 budget and endorsed it to the plenary. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) The noontime show "E.A.T." has apologized for a controversial remark made by one of its hosts, Joey de Leon, which insinuated suicide, the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) said on Wednesday. The E.A.T. production voluntarily appeared before the MTRCB [on Monday, Sept. 25] with an apology letter to enter into a dialogue with Atty. [Paul] Cases, the chairman of the adjudication committee, MTRCB Chairperson Lala Sotto told a Senate budget hearing. Cases said the MTRCB has considered complaints received on social media and will discuss the matter after its legal affairs division brings the issue to the adjudication committee. Asked by Senator Jinggoy Estrada if De Leon committed any violation, Cases said the MTRCB is not in the position to confirm as yet. The agency said it will determine if De Leons remark violated Presidential Decree 1986. On Sept. 23, a contestant in the Gimme 5 segment of E.A.T. was asked to list five items that may be worn around the neck. When the contestant failed to answer, De Leon joked, "Lubid, lubid, nakakalimutan niyo, lubid [Rope, you forgot about the rope]," then shrugged nonchalantly. Netizens and mental health advocates said the comment takes the issue of suicide and self-harm lightly and asked Sotto to summon De Leon and sanction the show. The MTRCB chief's father - Tito Sotto - and uncle Vic Sotto also host the program. If you are in need of mental health support, please call the 24/7 National Center for Mental Health Crisis Hotline at (0917) 899-8727, (0908) 639-2672, (0966) 351-4518, or (02) 7-989-8727 or 1553 (landline-to-landline only). Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 27) -- The House of Representatives on Wednesday moved to drop the lawmaker behind the An Waray Party-list after the Commission on Elections en banc issued a judgment canceling its registration. I move that the secretary general be directed to execute and implement the resolution and accordingly, drop the An Waray Party-List Representative from the roll of members of the 19th Congress, said Deputy Majority Leader Janette Garin. An Waray is represented by Florencio Gabriel "Bem" Noel. Garin said official communication from Comelec noted the final judgment on the cancellation of the registration of the party-list. There were no objections to Garin's motion. In August, the Comelec en banc denied the motion for reconsideration to reverse the cancellation of An Waray's registration for utter lack of merit. An Waray Party-list and former representative Victoria Isabel Noel filed a motion for reconsideration on June 6, arguing that there was no sufficient evidence to justify the decision of the Comelec Second Division. The division had ruled to cancel An Waray's registration when it allowed its second nominee, Victoria Isabel Noel, to sit as one of its representatives in the lower chamber during the 16th Congress (2013-2016), knowing "fully well" that the poll body had not issued a Certificate of Proclamation entitling her to do so. As of publication, the party-list or its representative has not issued a statement on the matter. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) A House of Representatives party leader said amendments to the proposed 2024 budget, including the reallocation of the confidential and intelligence funds of some agencies, will still be discussed either in a small committee to be formed by the lower chamber or during the bicameral conference. The House passed Wednesday night the proposed 2024 national budget of 5.768 trillion. Due to time constraints, lawmakers were unable to discuss proposed amendments to it, so confidential and intelligence funds of requesting agencies remain intact, Surigao del Sur Representative Johnny Pimentel told CNN Philippines The Source on Thursday. However, there will be a small committee of four that will tackle the proposed amendments, it could be done there, or it could be done during the bicameral conference, he noted. The government hopes to have next year's budget signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. by December. Deliberations are still ongoing in the Senate, which will be followed by the bicameral conference after the 2024 national spending plan is approved by the upper chamber. Pimentel said lawmakers have also yet to discuss the total amount to be reallocated. He noted that 28 government agencies have confidential and intelligence funds under the current version of the 2024 budget. House appropriations committee chairman Elizaldy Co has said one of those they are considering is the 650 million allocated to the Sara Duterte-led Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education. Congressmen said in their joint statement that the reallocated confidential and intelligence funds will be placed under agencies tasked to ensure national security amid Chinas continued aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea. They specifically mentioned the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, the National Security Council, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources. Pimentel said other agencies may still be added to the list like the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency for its anti-illegal drugs program. Its more or less how to prioritize, it is rebalancing the budget to suit the needs of the agencies that are mandated for these concerns, he added. Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said on Wednesday that the upper chamber agreed to follow suit. He said senators shall review all agencies in determining the reallocation of confidential and intelligence funds. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) The chief of the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) Southern Metro Manila District Field Unit is asking the regional prosecutor of Calabarzon to compel the city prosecutor of Dasmarinas, Cavite to file cases against Filipino-Indian businessman Amith Chandiramani. In his letter, Police Lieutenant Colonel Stefanio Andrenicus Rabino raised CIDGs serious concerns on the perceived partiality of the Dasmarinas prosecutor against them. Our perception is not without basis, as in fact, the OCP-Dasmarinas Resolution dated August 1, 2023 is froth with imputations that CIDG committed planting of evidence. Thus, we have been intently monitoring the progress of the instant case, Rabino said. The case stemmed from a raid in Chandiramanis house where authorities allegedly recovered several firearms and ammunition. Chandiramanis lawyer said the complaint for illegal possession with respect to the rifle and fragmentation grenade was already dismissed by the Dasmarinas prosecutors office. But the PNP-CIDG filed a motion for reconsideration. Based on Rabinos letter, the regional prosecutors office reversed the resolution and directed the city prosecutors office to file additional cases in court. Upon follow-up, Rabino said they were informed that the Dasmarinas prosecutors office has not officially received the copy of the resolution. We find this claim as incredulous and as a ploy to delay, he pointed out. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla already ordered the transfer of other complaints against Chandiramani to his office for case build-up and preliminary investigation. Chandiramani filed a separate complaint against his brother, billionaire Rajiv, for falsification of documents, which is under preliminary investigation in the Department of Justice (DOJ). Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 27) A bill seeking to establish the Magna Carta for Filipino seafarers hurdled the Senate plenary on Wednesday following hours-long debates. Three-term Senator Pia Cayetano had several questions to fine-tune the measure, but they did not sit well with the bills sponsor, first-time senator Raffy Tulfo. Senate President Juan Miguel Migz Zubiri had to suspend the session a number of times as tensions ran high. One instance was when Cayetano sought clarification on which government agencies can issue the certification required for Filipino seafarers to be allowed to work. "Mr. President, tapos na po yung period of interpellation natin. Period of amendments na ito.," said Tulfo. "Sana ang request ko lang po sabihin lang niya sa akin kung ano ang amendments niya and I will say whether I accept it or not and if I dont accept it, then I will explain," he also said, "Humahaba lang po tayo, Mr. President, your honor. Kung gusto niyo po maglatag na ako ng banig dito tsaka unan," Tulfo added, which prompted Zubiri to temporarily suspend the deliberations. [Translation: Mr. President, the period of interpellation is over. This is the period of amendments. My request is that she can just tell me what her amendments are and I will say whether I accept it or not and if I dont accept it, then I will explain. This is just taking longer, Mr. President, your honor. If you want, I can lay down a sleeping mat and pillows here.] Cayetano then replied, "Welcome to legislative work, Mr. President." After the period of amendments, all 14 senators who remained at the session hall voted to approve the measure past 9 p.m. The bill was certified as urgent by President Bongbong Marcos, allowing the chamber to fast-track the measure's approval in a single day. Wednesday was the last session day before the month-long congressional break. https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2023/9/26/marcos-certifies-magna-carta-for-seafarers-urgent.html Marcos said the bill would address the recurring deficiencies in our domestic laws pertaining to the training and accreditation of thousands of Filipino seafarers which endanger their employment in the European market in particular, and the global maritime arena, in general." Tulfo thanked his colleagues for supporting its passage, noting that it was his first pet bill that secured third reading approval. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) The Senate on Thursday ordered the detention of the president and three ranking members of the Socorro Bayanihan Services, Inc. (SBSI), an alleged religious cult accused of trafficking, kidnapping, practicing child marriage, and sexually abusing children beginning in 2019. During a joint committee inquiry into the SBSI by the Public Order and Dangerous Drugs; and the Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality panels, Sen. Risa Hontiveros asked SBSI leaders Jey Rence Senior Agila Quilario and Mamerto Galanida if the organization practiced child marriages. The senator cited an official document linked to the SBSI entitled Family Planning Certificate which indicated that a 15-year-old girl was married to an adult man. They denied the allegations. As far as I know, I do not know anything na mayroong ganyan na nangyayari sa Kapihansa alam ko lang [as far as I know], Galanida said. Addressing Galanida, Hontiveros said [A]ng impormasyon po natin ay may dalawa apo kayong na kinasal din sa minor sa Kapihan. Kasama po ito sa dinedeny ninyo? [Translation: We have information that you have two grandchildren who married minors in Kapihan. Do you also deny this?] Galanida responded: Ang masasabi ko po, walang kasalan tulad ng sinabi ni Janeth [Ajoc]. Meron namang mga bata, tulad sa kanya, na hindi mapigilan natin. May pre-marital engagement na sila. [Translation: All I can say is that there are no child marriages like what Janeth said. However, there are minors, like them, whom we cannot stop. They have pre-marital engagements.] In an interview with CNN Philippines The Source, Galanida already confirmed that the group practiced early marriages but denied its sexual abuse of children. READ: Alleged Socorro cult denies sexual abuse among minors, defends child marriages Hontiveros, dissatisfied with their answers, motioned to cite in contempt Quilario, Galanida, Ajoc, and Karren Sanico Jr., all ranking members of the organization. No senators objected. Sen. Ronald Dela Rosa, chairman of the public order panel, carried the motion. He also ordered the Senates sergeant-at-arms to take custody of the four SBSI leaders. The Department of Justice earlier this month said that the four detained SBSI leaders and nine others were facing complaints for allegedly abusing over a thousand children. The supposed religious cult has also been accused of operating drug labs guarded by armed men believed to be former cops. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) Senators asked the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on Thursday to come up with a mechanism to strengthen its monitoring of obligated funds of national government agencies that were only moved to or parked in government corporations. In a hearing of the Senate committee on finance on the proposed 2.495-billion budget of the DBM, Sen. Loren Legarda said many senators have raised that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has been doing this practice of parking its funds in the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP). How many agencies of government allow this so-called movement of obligation to a parking space, GOCC (Government-Owned or -Controlled Corporation), or a constitutional office, but its actually, Mr. Chair, not used in the local economy kasi nakabinbin lang dun sa (its just pending in the) parking space? Legarda asked DBM officials. DOTr (Department of Transportation) has been notorious for that. The DBM did not answer the question, but Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman explained that the Special Allotment Release Order for GOCCs is fully obligated by the Bureau of the Treasury. She said the DBM will then release the Notice of Cash Allocation to GOCCs, which will be recorded as a subsidy income and comingled with their corporate funds. Once its already there, it doesnt revert to the Treasury, she added. Legarda asked Sen. Sonny Angara, who led the committee hearing, if the Senate could work on a special provision that could be inserted in the 2024 budget to address the issue. While Angara agreed, he said there should be a more powerful and lasting weapon, adding there must be a time element to push government agencies to actually spend the allotted funding. Special provision is only good for the budget year, Angara said. There should be something, maybe that should be in the budget modernization code that youre pushing for, Secretary. Pangandaman responded that under the governments cash budgeting system, all funds transferred between national government agencies (NGAs), NGAs to GOCCs and vice-versa, or NGAs to local government units will not be considered disbursed until the transferred amounts have actually been utilized. I think ang nawawala lang siguro [whats missing] here is the monitoring mechanism from our end and the accountability of the GOCC, the DBM chief said. We will work closely with the committee maybe just to introduce amendments to the provision. Legarda urged the DBM to improve the provision and strictly monitor the funds, as parked or unused funds may amount to billions of pesos when culled. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) Child victims and former members of the Socorro Bayanihan Services, Inc (SBSI) shed tears as they recount horrors experienced when they were forced by their God to participate in the alleged cults activities and obey its laws. During the joint Senate committee inquiry on SBSIs alleged rape, sexual violence, child abuse, and forced marriage cases, Sen. Risa Hontiveros called victims and members who escaped from the cult. With her voice breaking, 15-year-old Jane narrated how she was forced to enter into marriage at 14 with an 18-year-old husband that she had never met. She said she could not say no as it was part of a law to be obeyed to enter heaven. Unang steps ay ipapatawag yung mga secretaries tas ipapatawag kung sino yung mga single na lalaki at single na babae, her counselor translated her narration using her native language. [Translation: First steps will be to summon the secretaries and summon who are the single men and single women.] She added that single girls listed started at age 12 while men started at age 18. Hontiveros, chair of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality, earlier exposed the cult where Jey Rence Quilario, or Senior Agila, was declared as a savior who led the group's alleged cult-like activities. Ang kulto ang paraan nila para magawa ang panga-abuso sa mga bata at ang paglabag ng batas ng Pilipinas na hindi ma-matiyagan o mahuhuli, the senator said. [Translation: The cult is their way of committing child abuse and violations of Philippine law without being caught.] Hontiveros said the government of the SBSI also produced their own birth, death, and marriage certificates for its members. Jane said her parents also only followed Senyor Agilas rules as they were laws. She said her mother was also paired off to marry another man while still married to her father. Jane added that she also endured sexual advances from Senyor Agila despite being married. She added they were told that they would go to hell if they did not consent. The group also had a "roulette" of punishments which would dictate what a member would do if they disobeyed the laws. Some of the laws include the authorization of rape right after marriage and the need to be immediately paired to a member of the opposite sex as they cannot board Noahs Ark without a pair. Mark Gelsano, an ex-military member of SBSI, confirmed Janes testimonies, recounting the forced marriage his 12-year-old sister had to enter. Meron ako nasaksihan na may babaeng tumakbo (I saw a girl running away once,) so we ran after her and dragged her, Gelsanos translator added. Jeng Plaza, Quilarios cook and a former member of their army, also added that children as young as six and seven years old were grouped together and trained to join the soldiers in the barracks. Plaza said they called the young soldiers the Fetus group. Lovely, also a former member of the cult, said some of the children who disobeyed the groups laws, such as deciding not to engage in sexual intercourse with their husbands, were left outside the community gate at night, even during harsh weather. Lovely said she saw Quilario telling the children that they would only be forgiven if they crawl from the gate to his house and if they promised that they would let their husbands touch them. She said her sister, 12-years-old, got pregnant twice and almost died when she went through a miscarriage while her father, who died in May, was buried without their knowledge. She said her family was prevented from seeing their fathers body because she testified against Quilario. Renz and Coco, both 12 years-old, burst into tears as they were being questioned by Hontiveros. The boys both told stories of being sent to foxholes after disobeying a senior officer from the Agila army. Renz said he strived to escape the cult because he still did not know how to write and they were not allowed to study. Socorro Mayor Riza Timcang said children were not allowed outside the community and added that there was a massive drop in learners from the area in 2019. Hontiveros claimed that it was in 2019 when Senyor Agila first sought to recruit members to the cult up in the mountains of Surigao del Norte. Quilario with SBSI Vice President Mamerto Galanida and leaders Janeth Ajoc and Karren Sanico Jr. earlier denied accusations of abuse and defended child marriages. All four leaders are now detained and facing charges after senators in a joint committee hearing were dissatisfied with their defenses. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 29) The United States is planning to conduct more multilateral patrols with the Philippines and other allied countries in the South China Sea to enhance maritime defense. "We are strongly supportive, not just of a bilateral approach but exploring opportunities for multilateral patrols with the Philippines and to other partners as well," Deputy Assistant Secretary of US Defense for South and Southeast Asia Linsey Ford said in a House hearing on Friday. Ford also said the US was able to inaugurate a US-Japan-Philippines defense dialogue last year. "We've been networking the Philippines into many of our alliances much more proactively, it is an essential part of our strategy," she added. Last month, Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez said the US is ready to conduct and implement the proposed joint patrols with the Philippines and other like-minded nations such as Australia and Japan in the South China Sea. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and US President Joe Biden earlier said in a recent statement that they are looking forward to the trilateral cooperation with other countries, like Australia, to ensure regional security. https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2023/8/21/us-joint-patrols-scs-jose-manuel-romualdez.html Deputy Assistant Secretary for Multilateral Affairs Jung Pak, meanwhile, said the US State Department has been rallying support for the Philippines to assert its sovereign rights in the South China Sea. "We've been very focused on making sure that the Philippines have the support of not just the US but also on a global scale," she said. US Coast Guard Vice Admiral Andrew Tiongson also vowed that they will continue to help the Philippines build maritime capacity and capability to deter and defend its sovereign rights. He said the US Coast Guard is willing to share their tactics and techniques to help the Philippines deal with unlawful incidents in the South China Sea. The Philippine Coast Guard recently removed a 300-meter-long barrier in the southeast portion of Scarborough Shoal installed by Beijing, but the latter warned the Philippines not to indulge in "provocation" or "stir up trouble." Philippine authorities stood firm and said the removal was consistent with the government's position on the West Philippine Sea. Scarborough Shoal or Bajo de Masinloc is located in the middle of the WPS inside the Philippines' exclusive economic zone. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 29) United States lawmakers on Friday started their inquiry on China's "escalating aggression" in the South China Sea, including the use of laser and water cannons on Philippine vessels. The US House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee's agenda was entitled, "Lasers and Water Cannons: Exposing the Chinese Communist Party's Harassment in the South China Sea." In her opening statement, committee chairperson Rep. Young Kim said China has long maintained "illegal claims" in the South China Sea, spreading propaganda such as the nine-dash line which Beijing has expanded. China last month released an updated standard map showing 10 dashes that form a U shape, claiming nearly the entire South China Sea as part of its territory. The area overlaps with the exclusive economic zones (EEZ) of the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, Vietnam, and Indonesia. READ: PH rejects, protests Chinas expanded 10-dash line in South China Sea Kim also bared that China has illegally dredged nearly 3,200 acres of new land some of which serve as military outposts that have runways for military aircraft, and isolated research platforms that can port military-grade vessels. These artificial islands allowed the China Coast Guard (CCG) to maintain a permanent presence in the exclusive economic zones of US allies and partners, including the Philippines, she added. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for South and Southeast Asia Linsey Ford, meanwhile, said they've witnessed a "sharp uptick in coercive and risky operational behavior" by China, threatening the safety of allied and partner forces operating in the South China Sea. She added that China's aggressive actions in the disputed waters cannot be considered as "isolated incidents." In February, the CCG moved "dangerously close" then illuminated a green light towards a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel near Ayungin Shoal causing temporary blindness to its crew members. Six months later, a China vessel blocked and fired water cannons at Philippine boats headed for Ayungin Shoal for a resupply mission to deliver food and supplies to military troops stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre. Ford said with the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), the Philippines will be able to build maritime defenses through combined training, exercises, and interoperability with US forces. US Department of State Deputy Assistant Secretary for Multilateral Affairs Jung Pak also said China's use of water cannons against the Philippines was "dangerous and provocative conduct." "We stand with our Philippine allies," she said. "An armed attack on Philippines public vessels, aircraft, and armed forces would invoke US mutual defense commitments under Article IV of the 1951 US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty." Pak added that an open and accessible South China Sea is vital not only to global peace and stability, but also to the global economy. A landmark 2016 tribunal ruling rejected China's sweeping claims over the South China Sea, but Beijing refuses to recognize the decision describing it as "illegal and invalid." Today is Sept. 28, 2023, and here's what you need to know: A landmark marijuana banking bill long championed by former U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter and Colorado Gov. Jared Polis cleared a major hurdle on Wednesday in Washington, when the legislation passed a Senate committee for the first time. Dubbed the SAFER Banking Act, the Secure and Fair Enforcement Regulation Banking Act would let legal cannabis businesses access the federally regulated banking system. The bill won bipartisan approval in the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs and heads to the Senate floor before an expected move to the House, which has passed earlier versions of the legislation with broad, bipartisan support seven times in recent years. Forcing legal businesses to operate in all-cash is dangerous for our communities; its an open invitation to robberies, muggings, money laundering, and organized crime and the only people benefiting from the current system are criminals, said Democratic U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley of Oregon in a statement after the bill passed the committee. In what's likely to be one of the more closely watched state races in the 2024 election, El Paso County Commissioner Stan VanderWerf Wednesday announced he will run for Senate District 12. The seat is currently held by a term-limited fellow Republican, Sen. Bob Gardner of Colorado Springs. VanderWerf will face Democratic state Rep. Marc Snyder of Manitou Springs for the seat next year. The Senate District 12 seat is likely to be one of at least three targeted by Democrats in their effort to reach 24 seats in the state Senate, a number that in 2025 would give them a supermajority. Democrats currently hold a 23-12 advantage. Several of Donald Trumps rivals stepped up their attacks against him in the second Republican presidential debate, urgently trying to dent the former president's commanding primary lead during an event that often seemed like an undercard without him. Trump went to Michigan, aiming to capitalize on the autoworkers strike in a key state that could help decide the general election. His competitors, meanwhile, were asked by Fox Business moderators at the Ronald Reagan library in California on Wednesday to participate in a reality show-style game in which they would write who else onstage they would vote "off the island. They refused. The debates tone was far removed from a campaign thats been driven by Trumps attacks on his rivals and democratic institutions as well as his grievances about a litany of criminal indictments and civil cases targeting him and his businesses. The moderators did not ask about the indictments or why the people onstage were better qualified than Trump, instead posing questions about issues including education, economic policy and the U.S.-Mexico border. The Colorado Supreme Court announced on Monday that it will review two criminal appeals, one questioning the level of proof needed to convict a man for trying to prostitute a child and the other addressing whether an organization can be the victim of identity theft. At least three of the court's seven members must consent to hear a case on appeal. The justices also signaled they might intervene in a criminal prosecution out of Denver, where a trial judge ruled the state's law permitting deadly force against home intruders did not apply to a defendant who shot a man on his porch. Finally, the Supreme Court narrowly turned down a fourth case out of Pueblo, in which the state's Court of Appeals previously found a man convicted of a sex offense did not have to incriminate himself and accept responsibility while he was still challenging his conviction. The West Nile virus stuck it to Colorado this year. Thanks to perfect mosquito breeding conditions during Colorado's abnormally wet spring and a dry summer, the virus hit Coloradans harder this season than it has since the illness first emerged here 20 years ago. Since around the Fourth of July, when Colorados first cases of West Nile started showing up, 31 Coloradans have died from the virus. Thats compared to 20 last year and 11 in 2021. In 2003, when the virus first appeared in Colorado, 66 people lost their lives to it. Generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the form of natural-language processing technology has taken the world by storm, with organizations large and small rushing to pilot it in a bid to automate tasks and increase production. Tech giants Google, Microsoft, and Amazon are all offering cloud-based genAI technologies or baking them into their business apps for users, with global spending on AI by companies expected to reach $301 billion by 2026, according to IDC. But genAI tools consume a lot of computational resources, primarily for training up the large language models (LLMs) that underpin the likes of OpenAIs ChatGPT and Googles Bard. As the use of genAI increases, so too does the strain on the hardware used to run those models, which are the information storehouses for natural language processing. Graphics processing units (GPUs), which are created by connecting together different chips such as processor and memory chips into a single package, have become the foundation of AI platforms because they offer the bandwidth needed to train and deploy LLMs. But AI chip manufacturers can't keep up with demand. As a result, black markets for AI GPUs have emerged in recent months. Some blame the shortage on companies such as Nvidia, which has cornered the market on GPU production and has a stranglehold on supplies. Before the rise of AI, Nvidia designed and produced high-end processors that helped create sophisticated graphics in video games the kind of specialized processing that is now highly applicable to machine learning and AI. AI's thirst for GPUs In 2018, OpenAI released an analysis showing since 2012, the amount of computing power used in the largest AI training runs had been increasing exponentially, doubling every 3.4 months (By comparison, Moores Law posited that the number of transistors in an integrated circuit doubles every two years). Since 2012, this metric has grown by more than 300,000x (a 2-year doubling period would yield only a 7x increase), OpenAI said in its report. Improvements in compute have been a key component of AI progress, so as long as this trend continues, its worth preparing for the implications of systems far outside todays capabilities. Theres no reason to believe OpenAIs thesis has changed; in fact, with the introduction of ChatGPT last November, demand soared, according to Jay Shah, a researcher with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). We are currently seeing a huge surge in hardware demands mainly GPUs from big tech companies to train and test different AI models to improve user experience and add new features to their existing products, he said. At times, LLM creators such as OpenAI and Amazon appear to be in a battle to claim who can build the largest model. Some now exceed 1 trillion parameters in size, meaning they require even more processing power to train and run. I don't think making models even bigger would move the field forward," Shah said. "Even at this stage, training these models remains extremely computationally expensive, costing money and creating bigger carbon footprints on climate. Additionally, the research community thrives when others can access, train, test, and validate these models. Most universities and research institutions cant afford to replicate and improve on already-massive LLMs, so theyre focused on finding efficient techniques that use less hardware and time to train and deploy AI models, according to Shah. Techniques such as self-supervised learning, transfer learning, zero-shot learning, and foundation models have shown promising results, he said. I would expect one-to-two years more for the AI research community to find a viable solution, he said. Start-ups to the rescue? US-based AI-chip start-ups such as Graphcore, Kneron and iDEAL Semiconductor see themselves as alternatives to industry stalwarts like Nvidia. Graphcore, for example, is proposing a new type of processor called an intelligent processing unit (IPU), which the company said was designed from the ground up to handle AI computing needs. Kneron's chips are designed for edge AI applications, such as electric vehicles (EVs) or smart buildings. In May, iDEAL Semiconductor launched a new silicon-based architecture called "SuperQ," which it claims can produce higher efficiency and higher voltage performance in semiconductor devices such as diodes, metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs), and integrated circuits. While the semiconductor supply chain is very complex, the fabrication part has the longest lead time for bringing new capacity online, according to Mike Burns, co-founder and president at iDEAL Semiconductor. "While running a fab at high utilization can be very profitable, running it at low utilization can be a financial disaster due to the extreme [capital expenses] associated with production equipment," Burns said. "For these reasons, fabs are careful about capacity expansion. Various shocks to the supply chain including COVID, geopolitics, and shifts in the types of chips needed in the case of EVs and AI, have produced several constraints that may take one to three years to correct. Constraints can occur at any level, including raw materials caught in geopolitics or manufacturing capacity awaiting build-out." While video games remain a big business for Nvidia, its emerging AI business has allowed the company to control more than 80% of the AI chip market. Despite formidable jumps in Nvidias revenues, however, analysts see potential issues with its supply chain. The company designs its own chips but like much of the semiconductor industry it relies on TSMC to produce them, making Nvidia susceptible to supply chain disruptions. In addition, open-source efforts have enabled the development of a myriad of AI language models, so small companies and AI startups are also jumping in to develop product-specific LLMs. And with privacy concerns about AI inadvertently sharing sensitive information, many companies are also investing in products that can run small AI models locally (known as Edge AI). It's called edge because AI computation happens closer to the user at the edge of the network where the data is located such as on a lone server or even in a smart car as opposed to a centrally located LLM in a cloud or private data center. Edge AI has helped radiologists identify pathologies, controlled office buildings through Internet of Things (IoT) devices and been used to control self-driving cars. The edge AI market was valued at $12 billion in 2021 and is expected to reach $107.47 billion by 2029. We will see more products capable of running AI locally, increasing demand for hardware further, Shah said. Are smaller LLMs the answer? Avivah Litan, a distinguished vice president analyst at research firm Gartner, said sooner or later the scaling of GPU chips will fail to keep up with growth in AI model sizes. So, continuing to make models bigger and bigger is not a viable option, she said. iDEAL Semiconductor's Burns agreed, saying, "There will be a need to develop more efficient LLMs and AI solutions, but additional GPU production is an unavoidable part of this equation." "We must also focus on energy needs," he said. "There is a need to keep up in terms of both hardware and data center energy demand. Training an LLM can represent a significant carbon footprint. So we need to see improvements in GPU production, but also in the memory and power semiconductors that must be used to design the AI server that utilizes the GPU." Earlier this month, the worlds largest chipmaker, TSMC, admitted it's facing manufacturing constraints and limited availability of GPUs for AI and HPC applications. We currently can't fulfill all of our customer demands, but we're working towards addressing roughly 80% of them, Liu said at Semicon Taiwan. This is viewed as a transient phase. We anticipate alleviation after the growth of our advanced chip packaging capacity, roughly in one and a half years." In 2021, the decline in domestic chip production underscored a worldwide supply chain crisis that led to calls for reshoring manufacturing to the US. With the US government spurring them on through the CHIPS Act, the likes of Intel, Samsung, Micron, and TSMC unveiled plans for several new US plants. (Qualcomm, in partnership with GlobalFoundries, also plans to invest $4.2 billion to double chip production in its Malta, NY facility.) TSMC plans to spend from as much as $36 billion this year to ramp up chip production, even as other companies both integrated device manufacturers (IDM) and foundries are operating close to or at full utilization, according to global management consulting firm McKinsey & Co. The chip industry cannot keep up. GPU innovation is moving slower than the widening and growth of model sizes, Litan said. Hardware is always slower to change than software. TSMCs Liu, however, said AI chip supply constraints are "temporary" and could be alleviated by the end of 2024, according to a report in Nikkei Asia. Both the US CHIPS and Science Act and European Chips Act were meant to address supply-and-demand challenges by bringing back and increasing chip production on their own shores. Even so, more than a year after the passage of the CHIPS Act, TMSC has pushed back the opening date for its Phoenix, AZ Foundry a plant touted by US President Joseph R. Biden Jr. as the centerpiece of his $52.7 billion chips repatriation agenda. TSMC had planned on a 2024 opening; its now going online in 2025 because of a lack of skilled labor. A second TSMC plant is still scheduled to open in 2026. The worlds largest supplier of silicon carbide, Wolfspeed, recently admitted it will likely be the latter half of the decade before CHIPS Act-related investments will affect the supply chain. iDEAL Semiconductor's Burns said the US and European Chips acts should help address the supply chain issue by reshoring some parts of the semiconductor industry to increase resiliencey in the manufacturing system. "The US CHIPS and Science Act has already impacted the sector by raising semiconductor supply chain risk to a national dialog. The attention now focused on supply chain risks has propelled investments by the private sector," Burns said. "US manufacturers have announced plans to expand their capacities, and investments in places like Texas, Ohio, New York and Arizona are fast under way. It will take time to fully evaluate the extent to which the CHIPS and Science Act can resolve existing supply chain issues, but it is a good first step in expanding domestic manufacturing capacity." Despite the AI chip shortage, however, AI chip stocks have soared, including Nvidias, whose market capitalization passed the trillion-dollar mark as its stock price more than tripled in the last 52 weeks. The IEEEs Shah also noted that the US government has not been able to provide the funds it promised to foundries, which by default means many US-based tech companies must plan on relying on existing manufacturers. I personally believe it would still take four to five years to have hardware manufactured on US soil that is also cheaper than Asian counterparts, Shah said. Days after EU industry chief Thierry Breton told Apple CEO Tim Cook in no uncertain terms that the company will be forced to open its ecosystem to competition, European browser company Vivaldi introduced its first browser for iOS. So, I spoke with Vivaldi CEO Jon von Tetzchner to discuss the context around the release. On the EU's DMA law To begin with, von Tetzchner supports European demands that gatekeepers such as Apple and Google open their ecosystems to rivals: The Digital Markets Act is a big deal. For years, the gatekeepers, as the EU calls them, have done things to restrict competition. Remember the early days of iOS? You could not even install a competing browser. "Now you can, but the browser needs to be based on WebKit," von Tetzchner said. "Soon, I hope, you will be able to install browsers based on Chromium and Gecko. You can then make the choice [of] which browser you prefer to use, and it can run the code it believes will provide you with the best possible browser. On the risk of sideloading He also believes that it will be possible to install software on iPhones sourced from outside the App Store. These changes wont be confined to Apple; Windows users will be able to install their choice of browser, too. And while many in the industry see this liberalization as posing risks to security and privacy on Apples platforms, the Vivaldi boss seemed somewhat sanguine: The main risk is that you might get to use software and services that you will enjoy more, he said. The gatekeeper is no longer going to be able to dictate what you use or try to force you to use software you do not like, such as Edge." Von Tetzchner doesnt agree with Apples claims that such sideloading will increase risk. If the idea is that it is a lot safer to have software be downloaded from the App Store, I think the history of bad apps in the store tells a different story, he said, before pointing the burden of protection on the user. It is always prudent to evaluate the software you install, independent from where you download it. It is always a good idea to download software from reliable sources, whether it is the company website or a quality download site or App Store. Getting a new browser to iOS In part, because of Apples insistence that browser developers use WebKit, Vivaldi has only just arrived on iPhones. Why did it take so long? There were some highly technical challenges that needed to be solved. At first, Vivaldi hoped to use the same codebase across all platforms. But it found that on both Android and iOS, additional work was required, and in iOS the company could not use the same core code and had to build a native user interface. This has required a lot of work," von Tetzchner explained, "not just to build the UI, but also to make things work as well as possible with the underlying WebKit engine. Given that we are not able to modify it, like we can do with the Chromium code, certain things were harder, so this has taken longer. Nodding toward the EU DMA, he added, We had also, frankly, hoped that we would not have had to use WebKit at all, but we decided to take the challenge and make it work. What does Vivaldi browser offer? The new browser offers all the tools Vivaldi offers on other platforms. That means desktop style tabs you swipe through, advanced bookmarks and speed dials (sites you access often), built-in blocking tech to protect against trackers and ads, and the ability to sync bookmarks, tabs, notes, and more across all the devices you use that run Vivaldi including iPhones, iPads, and Macs, and across Windows, Linux, and Android. On security and privacy I asked about the security of sync on the browser. He explained how it works. We decided to make things a bit more complicated, but more secure, he said. When you use our sync functionality, you have the traditional login, but also a separate encryption password. This means that even we do not have the capability to read your data on our servers, as that encryption password is not something we have access to. There is a slight risk to this approach. In the event you forget your encryption password, you wont be able to access the data from the sync server. Likewise, Vivaldi cannot access or share that information. We do not want access to your data at all. Our business model is not built around data harvesting and user profiling. In fact, we spend a lot of time removing such functionality from the Chromium code, such as the latest Privacy Sandbox functionality, recently added by Google. He stressed that data is stored in Iceland, which as a nation has some of the strongest privacy protection in the world. You can take a look at the new browser for iOS here. And here's a little further reading: How will Apple help IT manage third-party app stores. Please follow me on Mastodon, or join me in the AppleHolics bar & grill and Apple Discussions groups on MeWe. Terms of Service 1. Definitions www.costarica.com ("COSTA RICA") is an interactive on-line service operated by CostaRica.Com, Inc. S. 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The Odd Couple has seen many reboots and renditions, with one unifying concept: Opposites are funny. Lets dive into some trivia about the making of a classic comedic franchise... Click right here to get the best of Cracked sent to your inbox. 15 A Dark Knight Composer Neal Hefti, the American jazz trumpeter and composer who wrote The Odd Couples iconic theme music, also wrote the incredible theme for the 1960s Batman TV series. 14 It Was Briefly Turned Into a Cartoon The animated Saturday morning ABC show, The Oddball Couple, aired for four months in 1975 and featured a dog and a cat residing in the same house. Don Messick, the voice behind Scooby-Doo and Astro from The Jetsons, was part of the cast, and the show was produced by Friz Freleng, the famed animator who developed classic Looney Tunes characters including Bugs Bunny, Yosemite Sam and Speedy Gonzales. 13 It All Started with a Play Accounts of the exact origins of Neil Simons 1965 stage play, The Odd Couple, differ. It is, however, fairly certain that the story about divorce was inspired by just that. Mr. Simon (Danny, Neils brother) had moved in with a newly single theatrical agent named Roy Gerber in Hollywood, and they invited friends over one night, The Washington Post reported. Mr. Simon botched the pot roast. The next day, Gerber told him: Sweetheart, that was a lovely dinner last night. What are we going to have tonight? Mr. Simon replied: What do you mean, cook you dinner? You never take me out to dinner. You never bring me flowers. The incident is said to have inspired Danny to write 14 pages, but he got bored and handed it over to his brother, Neil. Except, according to Neil, the idea happened the other way around. Im never aware of the genesis of a play. Sometimes theyre inspired by real-life incidents in my life or somebody elses life, which was the case with The Odd Couple, the playwright once explained. It actually happened to my brother and a friend of his who were living together and going through all that. I witnessed it and said, Thats a great idea for a play. Neil was the one who suggested Danny write about it, and when Danny couldnt continue after a dozen or so pages, Neil asked if he could take a crack at it. 12 Albert Brooks Screen Debut Paramount Television While Brooks first credited project is for voice work he did on the 1969 TV cartoon Hot Wheels, he would make his on-screen debut as Rudy in the 1970 TV adaptation of The Odd Couple. Advertisement Advertisement 11 It Was Always Walter Matthau The actor was part of The Odd Couple from the start, playing Oscar Madison to Art Carneys Felix Unger in the plays very first stage production. The role won him a Tony. As for Carney, Simon knew he wanted The Honeymooners actor. Art was a vastly underrated actor/comedian who was generally overshadowed by the mammoth Jackie Gleason, Simon once wrote. Not in my book. I preferred Carneys nuances and deftly understated characters to Gleasons Watch out, pal, Im taking the stage brand of comedy. 10 Matthau Originally Wanted to Play Felix When Matthau read the stage play (or, at least, the first two acts of the script), he knew it would be a banger and immediately wanted to sign up. However, he was interested in playing Felix. It would have been the blunder heard round Shubert Alley, Simon noted. I called Matthau and asked why he wanted to play Felix when he would not only be perfect as Oscar but that he was Oscar. Walter replied, I know. Its too easy. I could phone Oscar in. But to play Felix, that would be acting. I said, Walter, do me a favor. Act in someone elses play. Do Oscar in mine. Advertisement Advertisement 9 The Tony Randall and Jack Klugman Alternatives Taking The Odd Couple from the theaters to television made perfect sense to Paramount, but casting the central pair took some deliberations. The producers first choices were Art Carney as Felix and Martin Balsam as Oscar, but both actors werent available for the series. Then Tony Randall and Jack Klugman occurred to us, and we knew it would be magic, writer and producer Garry Marshall once remembered. Then ABC wanted Tony Randall and Mickey Rooney, which we thought was a little far-fetched for what we needed. I wanted Jack Klugman, and the network didnt really know who he was. I had seen Jack in Gypsy, and I figured if he could stand there with Ethel Merman, he could be with anybody. It surprised me that by the end of the play, I really liked him. He did one hell of a job, and this was an actor who had no part to play, but he was great. I like a man who stands there and doesnt carry on, which he was so wonderful at on The Odd Couple. 8 ABC Was Worried Viewers Would Think the TV Duo Were Gay The series opened with the following narration: On November 13th, Felix Unger was asked to remove himself from his place of residence. This request came from his wife This was apparently because ABC didnt want audiences to think that the two men living together were also having sex. They were always sending memos like that, sighed Marshall. We kept sending them special shots from the set of Tony and Jack hugging, just to make them crazy. It was based on some research they did in some little town in Michigan. Advertisement Advertisement 7 From Laughing Track to Studio Audience The first season of The Odd Couple was shot in the same apartment used for the 1968 movie, with an added laugh track. From Season Two onward, a smaller apartment setting was used, and the show was filmed in front of a live studio audience. 6 Why The New Odd Couple Failed Winifred Hervey, who wrote for the sitcoms 1982 remake, The New Odd Couple, explained that the reboot, which only saw one season, simply rewrote the original shows scripts. They hired a lot of minority writers, but they werent really our scripts, she explained. So what we were doing was really rewriting scripts for a Black cast, which was not a very good idea, and there were a lot of problems with the show. It wasnt a good experience. I think everybody resented like, Why cant we write our own scripts? Why are we Blackesizing scripts? and so, that was a problem. Elaborating further, Hervey recalled when one of the head writers, Norman Barasch, asked the Black writing staff what a Black person would say when they were very excited. One of the writers, as a joke, said theyd probably yell, Hot dog! to which Barasch responded with an enthusiastic okay and proceeded to put it in the script. So, it was odd, Hervey concluded. It was The Odd Odd Odd Couple. Advertisement Advertisement 5 With a Little Help Simon credited Boston critic Elliot Norton for helping him figure out the final act of his play. (Norton) loved the play and gave it a wonderful review, but he said the third act was lacking something, Simon told the Boston Globe. On the show, he said, You know who I missed in the third act was the Pigeon Sisters, and it was like a light bulb went off in my head. It made an enormous difference in the play. I rewrote it, and it worked very well. I was so grateful to Elliot. Elliot had such a keen eye. I dont know if he saved the play or not, but he made it a bigger success. 4 The All-Female Version Back in 1985, Simon revised his play and turned it into The Odd Couple (Female Version). Except for the gender changes, the poker game was changed to Trivial Pursuit, and the English Pigeon Sisters became the Spanish Costazuela Brothers, Manolo and Jesus. The play was directed by Gene Saks, who also directed the 1968 movie. Advertisement Advertisement 3 The Newest Reboots Controversy The 2015 reboot series starring Matthew Perry and Thomas Lennon got into hot water with Bosnia after seeming to reference the 1995 Srebrenica massacre. In the second seasons third episode, Felix (Lennon) tells Emily (Lindsay Sloane), I thought we could try that new Serbian restaurant tonight, The Taste of Srebrenica referencing the Bosnian town where an estimated 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys were killed by the Bosnian Serb Army. People from the region said that the line mocked women who were dragged to Srebrenica restaurants to be raped by Bosnian Serb soldiers. Saying, Lets go visit that new Serbian restaurant, The Taste of Srebrenica, is analogous to saying something as horrendous as: Lets go visit that new German restaurant, The Taste of Auschwitz, the Congress of North American Bosniaks wrote in an open letter to Perry and his co-producers. 2 Matthau Delayed the Original Movies Production Production on the first film had to be put on hold after Matthau broke his arm when he fell off his bike while taking a ride on the Pacific Coast Highway. Its why he went to the 1967 Academy Awards sporting a cast and had to wear a soft cast for the rest of the movies shoot. Advertisement Advertisement It was 2017, and I was at the Toronto Film Festival. I ran into colleagues who had just seen I, Tonya, a world premiere about Tonya Harding, the controversial figure skater accused of trying to take out her rival Nancy Kerrigan. The story had been tabloid fodder back in 1994, and I wasnt sure what the movie would be like. My colleagues were still laughing as they walked out of their screening. It was really funny, I remember them telling me. But it was also really well-done. This opinion quickly became the consensus around the acclaimed dark comedy/mockumentary, which hit theaters later that year and received Oscar nominations for Margot Robbie as Harding and Allison Janney as Hardings witheringly disapproving mother LaVona Golden. (Janney won an Academy Award for her role.) I, Tonya was part of a new breed of fact-based film irreverent, unpretentious, clever. Movies like 2011s Moneyball and 2015s The Big Short could be viewed as antecedents, building off the sly humor found in 2010s The Social Network, which figured out how to make a movie built around a deposition incredibly entertaining. These four films are only sorta kinda similar theyre all inspired by true stories, all filled with colorful characters with big personalities but what they have in common is a desire to tell a real-life drama in as engaging a way as possible. And that means emphasizing whats so funny about these individuals and their situations. Click right here to get the best of Cracked sent to your inbox. In 2023, I was at the Toronto Film Festival again, and Craig Gillespie, who directed I, Tonya, returned with another world premiere, Dumb Money, which looks at the 2021 GameStop short squeeze that sent Wall Street into a panic. Once again, hes telling a true story in a mischievous way, rooting for the little guys who tried to take down the One-Percenters who ran hedge funds that were banking on GameStops financial ruin. Ordinary investor Keith Gill (Paul Dano) developed a following online, convincing his acolytes that GameStop was a winning stock. Its a crazy saga, so obviously the only way you can do justice to it is through humor. Advertisement Advertisement I liked Dumb Money fine its well-acted, fast-moving and digs into the economic inequality imperiling this country but its not especially innovative. Its irreverent and unconventional in exactly the way these sort of true-life films are these days. Ive sat through a lot of these movies in the last 12 months, and Im growing tired of the formula. Does every true story have to be so impishly self-aware? Based on the book by Ben Mezrich, Dumb Money (which opens wide Friday) zips around the country to different locations and different characters, none of them realizing that theyre on a collision course. Gabe Plotkin (Seth Rogen) is a wealthy fund manager living in Florida. Keith resides in Massachusetts, trying to eke out a living for his family, his rallying around GameStop sending Masters of the Universe like Gabe into a financial panic. (Theyve shorted the stock, so if its value rises, theyre screwed.) Rather than delivering this story in stark, moralistic tones, Dumb Money is breezy and crowd-pleasing, funny and warm. Keith and his fellow working stiffs are heroes, while the hedge-fund bosses are jerks its a complicated financial story reduced to us versus them cheerleading. Advertisement Myriad true-life dramas are feel-good affairs meant to inspire the masses (and win Academy Awards for their progressive messages), but this recent spate of Irreverent True Story Comedies is different. They work overtime to demonstrate that theyre not stuffy, jettisoning the normal sanctimony and pretensions of fact-based dramas these movies, you see, are hipper than the typical Oscar-bait. (Never mind that some of them actually win Oscars anyway) The techniques that are incorporated usually break certain fact-based-drama rules. The Big Short had different celebrities explaining complicated economic jargon directly to camera so that well pay attention most notably, Margot Robbie naked in a bubble bath. This summers Flamin Hot about Richard Montanez (Jesse Garcia), the man who allegedly came up with Flamin Hot Cheetos featured the protagonist delivering a smart-aleck voiceover narration meant to puncture typical biopic solemnity. Tetris and Air contain endless cheeky Reagan-era references, which underline those movies carefree spirit. And like I, Tonya, Dumb Money focuses on the quirkiness of its characters and the Can you believe all this actually happened?!? tone. In each case, the movie wants to be sure were having fun even if the subject matter might be weighty, dont worry, were all going to have a blast. Youll learn stuff, but it wont feel like homework, we swear. Advertisement Advertisement This year has seen a flurry of fact-based films built around consumer products, each of them conceived as a comedy. Wonder why Beanie Babies became a thing? Heres The Beanie Bubble. Confused about what smartphones were like in the early 21st century? Just watch BlackBerry. Did you ever play Tetris? Well, theres a whole movie about its early days! Want to relive how Nike talked Michael Jordan into signing a shoe deal? Check out Air! Blame the trend on nostalgia or the increasing stranglehold that corporations have on our lives most of these films are salutes to capitalism but they also seem to tap into our unquenchable fondness for explainer videos and bite-sized YouTube history lessons. (We dont need I Love the 80s-style programs anymore: We just make movies about that stuff now.) Advertisement Such video clips want to make sure to keep things light, leaning into jokes and a conversational tone, so its not a surprise that, by and large, these recent Irreverent True Story films do as well. Dumb Money isnt about a consumer product, but like those other flicks, it lays out a news event in an appealingly flashy way bang-bang editing, a catchy soundtrack meant to make you feel like youve got the gist of what happened without feeling mentally taxed. The film is quite funny particularly when Keith and his loser brother Kevin (Pete Davidson) squabble like little kids but often, the impish spirit can just feel glib, glossing over the details of a complicated true story in order to ensure the requisite amounts of heart and humor are ladled out. Advertisement Advertisement Its simplistic to call this the I, Tonya-ification of fact-based films, but that movie seemed to create the template for what we now see again and again. Emphasizing the nutty, salacious quality of Hardings tabloid story, the film was ironic but also earnest, trying to show the genuine pain and trauma while also chuckling at the goofy white-trash characters. Theres inherent humor in the circumstances of these events that were all so familiar with. Theyre so outrageous, some of the situations, Gillespie said at the time. So, I love that we have that already going into it, and the audience has that. To be able to reexamine that and surprise the audience, and show that you actually care for these characters because they are real people with real stakes in this absurdity of events thats going on. That was the challenge, that was exciting that youll come into with a judgment and preconceived notions about Tonya and the incident, and by the end of it hopefully youll have some empathy. Advertisement I thought I, Tonya worked largely because of Robbies investment in making Harding a complicated, troubled person, but a lot of the rest of the film bordered on cartoonish it was funny, but it punched down too much for my taste. Nonetheless, the movies success opened the door for a whole subgenre of irreverent dramas some of them overseen by Gillespie in which the real storys obvious wackiness is played for laughs, eventually leading to a certain amount of pathos underneath the jokes (hopefully). Soon, though, the formula got stale, risking depicting its characters as caricatures for cheap laughs. Movies like Tetris and The Beanie Bubble encourage us to giggle at the eccentrics, while Dumb Money is led by the nerdy Keith. Dano never mocks Keiths nerdiness, bringing a vulnerability and depth to the character that the film doesnt always honor. Along the way, the realness can get sacrificed for gawky spectacle. Advertisement Advertisement These new films are far less sophisticated both comedically and dramatically than The Social Network or Moneyball, more in spirit with The Big Short in its Can you believe this shit?!? portrayal of an outrageous true story. But that dark comedy, which won filmmaker Adam McKay a screenplay Oscar, was powered by a genuine anger at how Wall Street gamed the system to its own advantage it was very entertaining but still created a wealth of layered, lived-in characters. But McKay let smugness take over with his next film, Vice, and other Irreverent True Stories are often equally insubstantial in the pursuit of going for easy jokes. Air and Dumb Money are both solid movies good, not great but theyre far better than flicks like Flamin Hot, which have little to offer beyond a flimsy, cutesy superficiality. Sure, those fact-based films arent stuffy, but that doesnt keep them from sucking. Advertisement Advertisement Maybe this is why, of the recent Irreverent True Story movies, the one I like best is BlackBerry. A fictionalized account that draws from Jacquie McNish and Sean Silcoffs book Losing the Signal, the film traces the rise and fall of BlackBerry, which first brought smartphones to the world only to lose out to the superior iPhone. Like many of the films Ive talked about, BlackBerry is a mixture of comedy and drama, populated by memorable personalities and raging egos, but its infinitely less self-consciously hip than those other movies. Sure, there are references to certain period-specific songs, but theyre not obvious. Yes, the characters are dorks except for Glenn Howertons Jim Balsillie, whos like Its Always Sunnys Dennis but even more evil, ambitious and shout-y but theyre always portrayed in a grounded, realistic way. And although BlackBerry is funny, it doesnt bend over backward subverting the conventions of fact-based dramas. Instead, its sharp and subtle, telling the story of two driven men Jay Baruchel is terrific as geeky but savvy Mike Lazaridis, who invented the tech destined to be swept aside by market forces they couldnt control. Advertisement Unlike I, Tonya or Dumb Money, BlackBerry really does locate the humanity inside its quirky milieu, making a universal story about greed, insecurity and failure. For as much as I enjoyed Dumb Money, its so worried about knocking us over with how zany its story is its not actually that shocking or novel. Weve been so beset with crazy true-life sagas in the last few years that I appreciated BlackBerrys lack of being impressed with itself. It just presents us with some really interesting men who had a wild idea to change how people communicate. The humor isnt forced on us through gimmicks the movie just lets us get to know these guys as they realize their dreams and then watch their empire collapse. Its funny and its sad, and it doesnt spend the whole time congratulating itself over how clever it is. Maybe the fact-based film doesnt need to be subverted as BlackBerry proves, maybe it just needs to be smarter. The Daily Show is set to return on October 16th with a new round of rotating guest hosts. The rumor mill surrounding Comedy Centrals hit satirical news series seems to believe that Hasan Minhaj, the previous front-runner for the hosting job left vacant by Trevor Noah, has quickly fallen out of favor following a damning New Yorker report that accused Minhaj of fabricating shocking and bizarre stories of his own persecution but that might just be those emotional truths talking. Before the beginning of the now-resolved WGA strike, the rolling audition process for finding the next comic to fill the position once made great by Jon Stewart was a surprisingly popular exercise. The Daily Show saw consistently high ratings that outperformed Noahs tenure as former correspondents and other industry icons took turns skewering the news and adding their own flavor to the format, and some wondered whether it would be wiser to turn the hosting role into a gig economy-esque experiment with endless guest spots replacing the permanent position. However, one comedian pulled ahead of the pack in the eyes of the shows producers, as, up until recently, it was speculated that Minhaj would be the inevitable victor of the guest host battle royale. However, Minhajs integrity is now under question after he admitted to making up stories about anthrax attacks and islamophobic FBI terrorist stings in his act, and, with The Daily Show resuming in just a couple weeks, its decision makers will reportedly continue to explore their options. If Minhaj receives a mysterious letter in the mail, he shouldnt worry about opening it near his daughter its probably just a pink slip. Photo-Illustration: Curbed; Photos: Getty Nilanka Sandanayake was looking to move to New York City from Las Vegas and was actually having an easy time of it. At the Biltmore on West 47th Street, an in-house leasing agent named Emily was helping him set up tours of a couple of one-bedrooms and answering his questions about security deposits. Almost as soon as hed reached out, he was setting up a time to meet with another one of Emilys colleagues and do a walk-through. He was going through the available apartments, and I told him I had been communicating with Emily about this, Sandanayake says. Thats when he was like, Oh, by the way, thats our AI assistant. Real estates AI moment has arrived, and no one has really noticed. A Reddit poster was similarly duped by a smooth-talking bit of programming. When I got to the third place, I asked the doorman for the agent Id been emailing with, they wrote of an apartment on the Upper East Side. The doorman told me there is no agent that was the buildings AI assistant but I could show myself the apartment. And it turned out another agent Sandanayake had been working with at Two Blue Slip in Greenpoint and Third at Bankside in Mott Haven, two new waterfront developments owned by Brookfield Properties also didnt exist. In retrospect, maybe it was a little funny that her name was Brook, but she had been responsive and almost chatty when they corresponded. I was really impressed, Sandanayake said. The robot takeover is proving lucrative: Elise AI, a New York start-up selling an AI platform that chats with tenants and apartment seekers, raised $35 million in Series C funding this past summer. The company claims that around 30,000 units across 250 buildings in the city, mostly with in-house leasing teams, use the platform, which doesnt just text and email Elise AI recently debuted a voice product that responds to calls about apartment listings in an eerily human manner. (The company discloses up front that youre chatting with a bot.) Most folks dont realize theyre speaking with an AI, so they say things like You should get a raise for responding to me so quickly in the middle of night, said Francesca Loftus, Elises head of operations. Our AI gets asked out on dates. Loftus noted that people usually communicate with Elise after work hours, between 9 p.m. and 1 a.m. helping out the human agents who need sleep to live. Rounding out the trend of companies creating fake women to sell you apartments, Douglas Ellimans Eklund-Gomes team last week debuted Maya, a new ChatGPT-like AI assistant. They threw a party to announce her birth?, which The Real Deal noted was a culmination of almost two years of development backed by a hefty seven-figure investment. Chatting with Maya is more or less a standard customer-service exchange, except for the occasional flourish such as her use of the word captivating and the fact that she looks like an uncanny-valley Sephora ad. (Team co-founder John Gomes told The Real Deal, No. 1, I think shes really beautiful. I say if you took all the members of the Eklund-Gomes team and we had a big orgy one night, Maya would be born.) Is it unsettling on some level that a woman who doesnt eat, sleep, or exist is considered an ideal broker interface? Sure! But the AI revolution has an upside: Unlike many New York City brokers, she actually will get back to you. I was also in touch with brokers for some Manhattan apartments, and my experience was not that good, Sandanayake said. Sometimes I wouldnt get a response at all. Capturing the beauty of China: A British travel photographer's adventure 14:00, September 28, 2023 By Zhong Wenxing ( People's Daily Online In a world replete with breathtaking landscapes and diverse cultures, China distinguishes itself as a haven for photographers. In an exclusive interview with People's Daily Online, British travel photographer and storyteller Jord Hammond recently revealed how China's awe-inspiring natural wonders have made a lasting impression on his photographic journey. Screenshot China: Diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures Reflecting on his experiences, Hammond expressed profound appreciation for the country's varied landscapes. From the terraced fields in Yuanyang County in southwest China's Yunnan Province to the deserts in Dunhuang in northwest China's Gansu Province, and from the picturesque karst landscapes in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region to the majestic Huangshan Mountain in east China's Anhui Province China offers a plethora of scenic wonders. Photo: Courtesy of Jord Hammond Hammond acknowledged the nation's rich tapestry of natural beauty, "Despite having visited over 15 provinces, I know I've barely scratched the surface." The people's diversity, culinary delights, customs, and languages encountered throughout China were equally impactful for Hammond. He cherished the opportunity to relish the regional delicacies of each province he visited during his photographic expeditions. Vibrant festivals like the Mid-Autumn Festival and Chinese New Year also left a lasting impression on him. From hobbyist to professional: The evolution of a passion Hammond's passion for photography ignited during his initial experiences in China. He started his journey as an English teacher in Chongqing, exploring the vast country on his days off. Discovering hidden gems and immersing himself in local cultures, he started capturing the beauty he encountered through his camera lens. Sharing his work on Instagram, Hammond saw his online followers grow exponentially. Encouraged by the response, he pursued photography professionally and sought collaboration opportunities. Photography swiftly became an integral part of his lifea passion he is keen to share with the world. An enthusiastic return and exciting prospects Regarding his future plans, the photographer is eager to return to China for more photography endeavors. He has scheduled his visit for February 2024 to recapture his favorite locales with new and improved shots, after a previous hard drive failure caused the loss of earlier files. Additionally, Hammond has expressed a desire to enroll in a Mandarin course to deepen his understanding of the language. In addition to portraying the country's natural beauty, Hammond conveyed his admiration for China's advancements in technology. He stated, "I think China has always been at the forefront when it comes to tech." He shared the awe he experienced when using WeChat for the first time, marveling at its myriad features and user-friendly interface. Brands like DJI, with which he had the pleasure of collaborating, exemplify China's technological prowess. DJI's drones, widely popular among photographers, continue elevating their standards with each release, reinforcing their status as industry leaders. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Wu Chengliang) Browser Compatibility Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks. We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: Over the past couple of weeks I've been on a mini Grand Tour, taking in North Norfolk and North Yorkshire, both a far cry from my usual North London stomping ground. As the poet Robert Browning almost wrote: Oh, to be in England now that Autumn's here. The weather was a bit hit and miss, but the scenery was glorious and the driving, for once, was stress-free. For the first time since I bought my ULEZ-compliant hybrid, I was able to drive responsibly without keeping one eye permanently on the speedo and one foot on the brake pedal. Thanks to Genghis Khan's money-grubbing 20mph limits, empty cycle lanes everywhere, Low Traffic Neighbourhoods, width restrictions, yellow boxes, red routes, speed humps, absurd one-way systems and, now, pay-by-app-only parking, owning a car, even in Outer London, is an ordeal. For the first time since I bought my ULEZ-compliant hybrid, I was able to drive responsibly without keeping one eye permanently on the speedo and one foot on the brake pedal (Stock Image) Further afield, away from the main centres of population, driving can be, if not an unbridled joy, then certainly a darn sight more relaxing than crawling along congested suburban streets within the M25. For now, at least, those living in rural areas are spared the attentions of the eco-zealots and the ULEZ tyrants. In Norfolk, North Yorks and elsewhere, cars aren't luxuries, they're essential. But the Net Zero nutters are closing in. When the ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles comes into force albeit now five years later than the provisional wing of the polar bear-huggers demanded it will have a seriously adverse impact on the countryside. Bombing around the back-roads of Norfolk and North Yorks, I didn't see many Teslas. Hybrids were in fairly short supply, too. In farming country, the internal combustion engine still rules, OK. Sitting over a splendid lunch in the Dabbling Duck, at Great Massingham, I couldn't help wondering how Norfolk's rural community is going to manage when Net Zero forces them to go all-electric. Even if the technology is up to powering heavy-duty tractors and combine harvesters, will there be enough electricity to meet demand? And, more to the point, where are they going to be plugged in? Yesterday, it was reported that owners of electric cars in rural areas have to drive 13 times further than those in London to find a charging point. Some English counties have just a single charger for every ten miles of road. Not surprisingly, only two per cent of vehicles registered in these areas as plug-in EVs. Yesterday, it was reported that owners of electric cars in rural areas have to drive 13 times further than those in London to find a charging point (Stock Image) The Just Stop Oil fanatics, and deranged metropolitan eco-freaks such as Zac Goldsmith and the Green Party's Caroline 'Looby' Lucas, are howling about the Government's decision to grant a licence to open up a new gas and oil field in the North Sea. But where else do they think the power is going to come from, especially in remote rural areas? Gas and oil will still be needed to supply 25 per cent of our energy needs, even if Net Zero targets are hit in 2050. Admittedly, there's a giant War Of The Worlds wind turbine next to Waitrose in Swaffham, which looms over the surrounding countryside like that statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro. But I can't see that being up to the job, particularly when the wind doesn't blow. North Norfolk has escaped relatively unscathed, so far, from the turbine terror. At least, onshore. (Don't mention The Wash.) But elsewhere, these bird-shredding monstrosities blight some of the prettiest scenery on earth as I remarked a couple of months back, after travelling along the windmill-pocked M8 in Scotland on my way to Murrayfield to see Springsteen. There's a giant wind turbine next to Waitrose in Swaffham, which looms over the surrounding countryside like that statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro (Stock image) (As Joni Mitchell might have observed: They've paved paradise and put up another bloody wind farm.) And if plans for more offshore wind turbines go ahead, vast swathes of rural Britain, starting with Norfolk and Essex, are going to be scarred by hideous pylons built to carry the electricity to urban centres. In North Yorks, there were a few Teslas knocking around. Ripon and Harrogate are pretty wealthy areas, so more folk can afford to go green without going broke. Even so, charging points are still few and far between. England's green and pleasant won't be safe from the Net Zero nutjobs for much longer. How long before the rest of the UK is forced to accept the same 20mph blanket speed limit as Wales? I know I shouldn't laugh, but had to chuckle at the news this week that Welsh bus tables have had to be revised because buses struggle to972597 get up hills at 20mph. It's not funny if you're trying to get to work, or hospital. But at least that dismal druid Drakeford can feel good about himself. Ripon and Harrogate are pretty wealthy areas, so more folk can afford to go green without going broke (Stock Image) Things will only get worse once Wales goes all-electric. If you can't afford a Tesla, you'll have to treat yourself to a pony and trap, boyo. (So that's what they mean by How Green Was My Valley.) The problem with the self-righteous, Left-wing metropolitan Net Zero zealots is that, never mind North Norfolk or North Yorks, they rarely venture beyond the North Circular. They should take a leaf out of my book and try to get out more. Then they might learn how the other half live. Listen to the good folk in the Dabbling Duck, Great Massingham, not the virtue-signalling Guardianistas in the Babbling Berk, Islington. Yes, we all want cleaner air and lower emissions, but there's room for compromise. It doesn't have to be all-electric or nothing. Hybrid vehicles, like mine, are a happy medium. They're self-charging, more economical, are happy to pootle along on electric power at low speeds, and emit far, far fewer pollutants than equivalent cars even ten years ago. Plus, you don't have to gamble on finding a roadside charger which isn't either permanently occupied or out of order. On the way home from North Yorks, I had stop to fill up with petrol outside Peterborough. It took five minutes, tops. The charging points were busy and there were long queues. If I'd have bought an all-electric EV, rather than a sensible, state-of-the-art hybrid, I'd still be there, having lost the will to live. Oh, to be in England now that Net Zero's here? No thanks. Tommy Atkins knows how the gun cops feel As one Met police firearms officer appears at the Old Bailey charged with murder, we now learn a second copper who fired a fatal shot is facing the sack despite being cleared of criminal wrongdoing. On Tuesday, I wrote about more than 100 firearms specialists handing back their weapons permits over the decision to charge an officer known only as NX121 over the shooting of suspect Chris Kaba in South London. Even though the Army has been stood down after being put on standby, armed cover in London is not back to full strength. The latest news that a marksman who shot dead a gangster preparing to spring two prisoners from Wood Green Crown Court is to face a gross misconduct hearing which could end in his dismissal is likely to provoke a similar level of disquiet. The Crown Prosecution Service decided not to bring charges against the officer, known as W80, who shot and killed Jermaine Baker in 2015. He maintained that Baker was reaching for an imitation sub-machine gun, found at the scene. But the independent police watchdog, the IOPC, is going ahead with a disciplinary hearing which could result in the sack. As one Met police firearms officer appears at the Old Bailey charged with murder, we now learn a second copper who fired a fatal shot is facing the sack despite being cleared of criminal wrongdoing We also learned this week that Soldier B, who shot and killed a teenager who approached an Army patrol during the Troubles in 1972, has died. He was accused of murder, but in 2021 the prosecution finally decided not to proceed with the charges. In a further twist, however, in July this year a judge overturned the decision not to prosecute. Soldier B died without having the chance to clear his name. Whether the case should ever have got this far is highly contentious. As part of the Good Friday peace deal, the amnesty given to terrorists was not extended to members of the Armed Forces. Yes, we hold the military and the police to the highest standards. But there is the well-founded suspicion that those who pull on the King's Uniform will not receive support from above when they are called upon to fire, with lethal effect, in the line of duty. Nothing much seems to have changed since Rudyard Kipling's 1890 poem, Tommy, about the gratitude soldiers (and, it seems, police firearms officers) can expect. For it's Tommy this, and Tommy that, An' Chuck him out, the brute. But it's Saviour of 'is Country, When the guns begin to shoot... Every once in a while when I was in my 20s, under-age schoolboys would accost me as I went into the tobacconist for my daily fix of cigarettes and beg me to buy some for them: 'Pssst! Mister! If you get us ten Woodbines, I'll give you the cash!' This hasn't happened to me for many years partly, I suspect, because few under-18s can afford the prices shops charge for gaspers these days, at well over 14 for a packet of 20, but also because I now look so elderly and forbidding that they don't fancy their chances of recruiting me as a co-conspirator. Anyway, why would they bother to hang around outside newsagents, pleading with strangers to buy them cigarettes, when they can get all the poison they crave from the dirt-cheap, black-market, fruit- flavoured vapes flooding schools? Even in those far-off days of the 1970s, however, I always refused to buy cigarettes for minors. I would never encourage anyone, of any age, to take up smoking. It's a revolting, smelly habit and that's quite apart from its ruinous effects on our health and our wallets. Indeed, my watchword where my 50-year smoking addiction is concerned, as in so many other areas of my life, has always been: 'Do as I say, not as I do.' I always refused to buy cigarettes for minors. I would never encourage anyone, of any age, to take up smoking (Stock Image) That said, I'm in two minds about the latest proposal Rishi Sunak is said to be considering in his doomed effort to make Britain smoke-free by 2030. This is the policy, pioneered by the New Zealand government last December, under which the legal age for buying cigarettes will rise yearly until the last smoker in the country is dead. To be precise, the law in New Zealand now bans the sale of tobacco to anyone born after January 1, 2009. My first reaction to this news was that it seemed much fairer than an immediate ban on all tobacco sales, long favoured by anti-smoking fanatics. Like so many others, after all, I became addicted to the evil weed at a time when it was perfectly legal to buy and smoke it. As I've often complained, it would be cruel and wrong to make the law-abiding among us suffer the agonies of withdrawal, simply because fashions have changed and an intolerant, non-smoking majority is now in the ascendant. Say what you like about the plan now under consideration, but at least it would answer that objection, deterring young people from taking up the filthy habit while leaving me and my fellow ageing addicts free to carry on destroying our health and impoverishing ourselves on the pavement outside the pub. Certainly, the Prime Minister will have been encouraged by the YouGov poll in yesterday's i newspaper which found that a huge majority supports a yearly increase in the legal smoking age, either 'strongly' (49 per cent) or 'somewhat' (22 per cent), while only 17 per cent oppose it. Who can blame Mr Sunak if he calculates that by adopting the New Zealand plan, he may find himself on to a much-needed vote-winner? Think the policy through, however, and you'll soon see how strange it begins to look. Will tobacconists of the future be obliged to ask 50 and 60-year-olds for ID, before they can sell them 20 Silk Cut or a couple of ounces of Gold Leaf? I'm in two minds about the latest proposal Rishi Sunak is said to be considering in his doomed effort to make Britain smoke-free by 2030 (Stock Image) More surreal still, will our grandchildren live to see 85-year-olds, born after 2008, loitering outside newsagents, begging a passing 86-year-old: 'Oy, mate, be a sport and buy us a packet of Marlboro Reds!' All right, I grant you that if we follow New Zealand, it's highly improbable that anything like this will come to pass. It's much more likely that as the years go by, and the market for legally-sold tobacco ages and shrinks, legitimate outlets will simply stop selling the stuff, which is clearly what Mr Sunak wants. But I reckon he's fooling himself if he reckons that by progressively restricting legal sales, he'll ever achieve his goal of a smoke-free Britain. As for his hopes of stamping out smoking before 2030, by which time a policy modelled on New Zealand's would hardly have begun to bite, well, that's surely pure fantasy. Indeed, we've already seen how one of the chief effects of recent Budgets, in which successive chancellors have tried to make us quit by hugely increasing the tax and duty on tobacco, has been to boost cigarette-smuggling and the lucrative black market, much as Prohibition in America was a godsend to Al Capone. Which brings me to the question of policing a New Zealand-style scheme. While shoplifting and knife-crime grow ever more rife, and burglaries go uninvestigated, can you really see the authorities devoting scarce resources to checking the dates of birth of shoppers emerging from the tobacconist? He's fooling himself if he reckons that by progressively restricting legal sales, he'll ever achieve his goal of a smoke-free Britain (Stock Image) The example of cannabis hardly gives grounds for optimism. This mind-altering, psychosis-inducing drug has been banned for recreational use in the UK since 1928. Yet with the police turning a blind eye to those who smoke it publicly, the streets in my neck of South London veritably stink of the stuff these days, as never before. Does anyone seriously think the authorities would show greater zeal, or enjoy greater success, in stamping out smoking tobacco among people born before 2009? If the Prime Minister believes that, he'll believe anything. Mind you, I have a great deal of time for Mr Sunak. I like his obvious intelligence and his reassuring air of unflappable competence. I'm also impressed by his decision to devote himself to public service, despite his being rich enough to live a life of pure self-indulgence. But if he has a fault, apart from his failure to excite (perhaps not such a bad thing after our surfeit of excitement under Boris Johnson and Liz Truss), it's that he seems to believe we could all be a lot more like him, if only we had the right guidance. I'm thinking in particular of his ambition to make all children study maths up the age of 18. Of course, he himself has a very good head for figures and he's far from the only mathematical wizard who believes any child can master the subject, if properly taught. Well, all I can say is that at my fearfully expensive schools, I was taught by some of the best maths teachers money could buy. But though I'm not proud of it, I've always been utterly hopeless with numbers and not, I assure you, for want of trying. Being forced to plug away at maths until I was 18 would have killed my enjoyment of school stone dead. Mr Sunak may think it's easy to give up, since he's never been hooked. Indeed, I've lost count of the number of people who have told me over the years that I'd find it a doddle to quit It's the same with my smoking addiction. Mr Sunak may think it's easy to give up, since he's never been hooked. Indeed, I've lost count of the number of people who have told me over the years that I'd find it a doddle to quit, if only I put my mind to it. To them, I can only reply: 'Speak for yourselves!' For longer than I care to remember ever since cigarettes reached the dizzying price of 1 a packet I've often tried to kick the filthy habit. I just can't. Indeed, my latest attempt began at the end of last month, when I embarked on a four-week break from work the longest I've ever gone without appearing in the public prints since I started in journalism almost half a century ago. My hope was that without the pressure of having to write, I might at last summon the willpower to break free of my enslavement to tobacco. Five weeks on and here I am miserably shelling out almost 15 a packet, enduring all the humiliation modern society heaps upon us smokers and puffing away more than ever. Now, no doubt this would be a much healthier, more productive country if only the population were more like Mr Sunak God-fearing, hard-working, public-spirited, devoted to family, good at maths and a teetotal, non-smoker to boot. But please, Prime Minister, have pity on those of us less perfect than yourself and stop trying to force us to be as good. There comes a stage in every womans life when the words of the late, great journalist, screenwriter and all-round sage Nora Ephron spring to mind. I Feel Bad About My Neck (And Other Thoughts On Being A Woman) was the title of Ephrons 2006 collection of characteristically razor-sharp observations on the trials and tribulations of being a woman of a certain age; the menopause, the empty nest, the aching joints and fading faculties; and also of the effort it takes as the years creep by to counter the disconnect between the crone staring back at us in the mirror, and the person we remain in our minds eye. According to my dermatologist, she writes, the neck starts to go at 43 and thats that. You can put make-up on your face and concealer under your eyes and dye on your hair, you can shoot collagen and Botox and Restylane into your wrinkles and creases, but short of surgery theres not a damn thing you can do about your neck. The neck is a dead giveaway. Our faces are lies and our necks are the truth. And, for years, shes been absolutely right, of course. Necks are like hands (and feet, although feet are easier to hide), blunt, honest indicators of age. I would also include in that list jowls and, in some cases, ears and noses. As we get older the former sag and droop, and the latter have an uncanny tendency to get bigger and more pronounced. The sharpness of youth deserts us, and our faces and bodies slowly but unmistakably seem to melt, like Tarmac in the hot sun. It is not a happy experience. For men, the issue is less pronounced. Men have one huge advantage in this respect over women: beards. A beard is a wonderful tool of concealment. It can hide a double chin or a slack jawline, it can even mask a turkey neck. If I were a man, that would definitely be my strategy. Necks are like hands (and feet, although feet are easier to hide), blunt, honest indicators of age. I would also include in that list jowls and, in some cases, ears and noses, writes SARAH VINE In truth, I have always felt a bit bad about my neck. Even when I was a young, unwrinkled thing, it was not the shape and length I wanted it to be But Im not. And although I do, as I get older, find myself increasingly battling the occasional chin hair, not to mention a persistent and annoyingly swarthy presence on the upper lip, at 56 there is nowhere to hide. In truth, I have always felt a bit bad about my neck. Even when I was a young, unwrinkled thing, it was not the shape and length I wanted it to be. It was not long and elegant, it did not in any way resemble that of a swan, which I was taught early on by fairytales and films was and probably still is the optimum shape of a human females neck. Mine was instead short and rather stocky and solidly embedded in my wide shoulders, a part of my anatomy very much constructed for utilitarian, not aesthetic, purposes. To make matters worse, Im one of those people who puts weight on around their face, so the double chin was (is) an ever-present threat. With the passing of years, matters have not necessarily improved. Granted, the situation is not terrible. Thanks to my intense dislike of the sun and sunbathing, the quality of my skin is not too bad. But there is a heaviness, a loss of definition and a laxity that cannot be denied. It doesnt help that I cant stop looking at myself. Not out of choice, I should add. Just because you cant escape it these days. That little electronic mirror in our hands makes sure of that. God, I miss those innocent, pre-Instagram and TikTok days, when smartphones didnt exist, when we were not constantly snapping selfies with friends, or being filmed dancing after too many glasses of wine, or accidentally activating some sort of FaceTime button that ambushes us when were least expecting it, jowls, wrinkles, bags, surly, downturned mouth, resting bitchface and all. There were mirrors, of course, but they could be easily avoided. And if you did find yourself in front of one, you took steps. My friends and I used to take the mickey out of each other for our various mirror faces, one turning her head this way or that, the other striking a certain pose, another pouting and raising her eyebrows. Now you never know when the camera might catch you unawares. And its not all selfies and self-inflicted: theres no escaping the tyranny of the Zoom or video call. The latter are particularly unflattering, especially for the lower half of the face because we tend to be looking down at the screen. No wonder everyone is so anxious about their appearance. No wonder the aesthetics industry is booming. There are advantages and disadvantages to this. The disadvantages are the botched treatments, the lack (still) of proper regulation, the proliferation of unscrupulous clinics and practitioners. The advantages are that, where best practice exists, some really innovative options are now available. Back when Ephron wrote her book, she was right: the only way to improve the appearance of the neck and jowls was expensive, painful surgery with weeks of recovery time in some remote Swiss clinic. Almost two decades on, that is no longer the case. There are now a plethora of treatments aimed at tackling this most tiresome of problems, ranging from the more invasive lasers, threads, microneedling, heat and radiofrequency to the more subtle (and less painful) such as ultrasound. Results, of course, vary according to the treatments but the general rule (Im afraid to say) has always been the more pain, the more gain. One of the more popular treatments, for example, Morpheus 8 (endorsed by the likes of Kim Kardashian, Amanda Holden and Judy Murray, who revealed last year that she had undergone the treatment to tighten her turkey neck) is famously very painful. It combines radiofrequency with microneedling, creating minor trauma to the skin and deeper tissues, which in turn stimulates the body to produce collagen and elastin fibres for healing, helping to firm up the area treated. Likewise, another favourite, the thread lift, in which very fine surgical threads studded with tiny hooks are inserted deep into the tissues of the face and then, not to put too fine a point on it, yanked upwards to elevate the muscles, is also painful albeit very effective. Again, the internal trauma encourages the body to produce collagen, which in turn improves the texture of the skin. The effect is instantaneous but it hurts like hell, there can be bruising, and it is imperative to have it done by a really experienced medical practitioner, otherwise you can end up with all sorts of complications, including a wonky face. There are many others, too. The Endolift (in which a laser fibre just bigger than a human hair is inserted under the skin to tighten it and remove fat); Ultherapy, an ultrasound treatment that many experts in the business recommend as a once-a-year maintenance option; Ultracel, another ultrasound-based treatment which also uses microneedling; and endless at-home gadgets, from Newa, an at-home radiofrequency device to Lyma, one of a new generation of skin lasers licensed for domestic use. In my personal quest to feel less bad about my neck I have, over the course of the past few years, dabbled with a few of these options myself. I tried the Lyma, for example, but just couldnt get into it although I know people who swear by it. I was too chicken for the Morpheus 8 (I was put off by the agonising tales). But I did have a thread lift in 2019, and loved the results, even though it felt like I had barbed wire in my face for about a week (which in essence, I did). And it lasted longer that I had anticipated they say 18 months to two years, but it was probably more like three before I noticed the effect wearing off. I suspect that was down to the skill of the doctor who did it, Dr Charlotte Woodward at River Aesthetics. Cant recommend her enough. Dr Ivy Igerc, who works out of the Hale Clinic, is of Croatian and Italian extraction, slim, impeccably dressed and impossibly glamorous with 20 years experience in the business But the truth is time marches on and, earlier this year, I noticed that things were starting to head inexorably south once more. I didnt want to have another thread lift: just too painful. Yes, I feel bad enough about my neck, but not bad enough to go through that again. So I decided to go a different route: injectables. Injectables have had a bit of a bad rap of late. Not just the over-use of Botox, resulting in frozen expressions and so-called bowling-ball foreheads; but also poorly administered fillers, resulting in that awful pillow face you see on so many celebrities. But I had heard about one woman with the lightest of touches and the tiniest, thinnest of needles who had developed a technique using a combination of micro fillers, tiny, individual threads and Botox to treat the neck and jowls. I decided to take the plunge. Dr Ivy Igerc is of Croatian and Italian extraction, slim, impeccably dressed and impossibly glamorous with 20 years experience in the business. When not tending to her client list of bashful celebrities and supermodels, she is to be found lecturing on the latest techniques in aesthetic enhancement all over the world. She works out of the Hale Clinic (haleclinic.com) in London. But when we meet she has just returned from China, and is full of excitement and energy about some of the new technology emanating from that part of the world. Shes also fascinated by the differences in beauty standards between cultures did you know, for example, that in China having ears that stick out from your face is considered highly desirable? She laughs: Over here, everyone wants their ears pinned back; there, its the opposite. But Dr Ivy is nothing if not inventive. She uses tiny amounts of filler to reposition the ears a technique not dissimilar to that used in non-surgical rhinoplasties, where the nose is reshaped using the cleverest of optical illusions. In fact, most of what Dr Ivy does is about tricking the eye into thinking what its seeing is not, as, in my case, a slightly weary-looking divorcee who honestly cant remember the last time she had a facial and whose skincare regime consists of shoving on whatever cream happens to be lying around the bathroom, but a sophisticated, well-preserved woman of indeterminate middle years. One of the most striking things is her technique. Most practitioners will have you lying back on a bed. Not Dr Ivy. After sterilising the skin with something that smells like swimming pools and applying numbing cream to the face, she has you standing up, hair back, against a white backdrop. You are instructed to in turn frown, smile, raise your eyebrows, let your jaw go slack while she marks out the areas to be treated with a surgical pencil. Using the finest of needles, she then injects quickly and confidently, stepping back every few punctures to observe the effects, rather like an artist applying paint to a canvas. Its a bit like being attacked by a small but determined swarm of little bees, only one must resist the urge to run away. When you think about it, the standing up thing makes perfect sense. When I lie down, all the jowls and wrinkles obligingly slide around the side of my face. If Dr Ivy cant see the full horror, how on earth is she supposed to treat it? After Botox in the vertical frown lines between my eyes not to erase them, just to soften them slightly, I get little nips of the stuff in my crows feet, and then she asks me to clench my jaw. Here she goes in slightly deeper, to turn off the powerful masseter muscle and stop me a) grinding my teeth and b) reduce the volume of muscle for a slimmer silhouette. The Botox takes a few days to kick in; but the fillers and the mini threads do their work instantly. And there it is: my jawline. Hello, old friend Lastly, she injects those big vertical muscles in the neck which are responsible for pulling the mouth and jaw down over time. Then its time for the filler. And this is where the magic really happens. Using tiny jabs of filler, she widens my cheekbones almost imperceptibly just beneath my temples. Again, this is all part of the illusion: emphasise the cheekbones and you detract from the lower part of the face. Then she goes in on the jawline, injecting microscopic doses of filler underneath the muscle in order to lift and support it rather like scaffolding holding up a sagging roof to create definition. A final bit of filler to soften the dreaded marionette lines at the corners of my mouth, and its time for the mini threads, just that little bit of extra support beneath the skin (these, by the way, dont hurt at all). The whole thing has taken probably no more than three minutes. It costs from 800. But the effect is unmistakable. The Botox takes a few days to kick in; but the fillers and the mini threads do their work instantly. And there it is: my jawline. Hello, old friend. Over the course of the next few weeks, as the Botox in my neck and masseter starts to work, the results get even better. And its exactly what I had hoped for: not so drastic I look like someones taped my chin around the back of my neck, but noticeable enough (to me, anyway) to give me a new-found confidence. It will need maintenance, of course. Ephron was right: the only truly permanent solution is a surgical lift. But I really dont want that. More to the point, I dont need it. I am not a supermodel or an actress, no one really cares what I look like. No one except me, that is. Now I am happy to say that, when I look in the mirror these days, I feel quite good about my neck. And, at 56, thats not bad going at all. Evan has been impersonating for two decades and traveled the world doing so He got $40K for his first job and was able to pay off his debt in 'one swoop' A Tom Cruise impersonator has revealed how being a dead ringer for the movie star helped 'pay off his credit card debt in just one day.' Los Angeles-based Evan Ferrante has worked as an impersonator for the past two decades, having first used the unusual skill to pick up women while studying. After leaving university, he had racked up $40,000 in credit card debt but soon found a unique way of paying it off. The now 44-year-old claimed that he earned enough money to cover the debt in 24 hours by mimicking the Mission Impossible star which became the start of his successful career in Hollywood. A Tom Cruise impersonator has revealed how being a dead ringer for the movie star helped 'pay off his credit card debt in just one day' Los Angeles-based Evan Ferrante has worked as an impersonator for the past two decades, having first used the unusual skill to pick up women while studying in college Evan met Tom Cruise eight years ago at the Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles - he called him 'kind and attentive' Evan explained: 'I managed to pay off all of my debt in just one day. 'I was contacted by a company in Australia. They wanted me to film a couple of comedic sketches as Tom Cruise after discovering some of my work online. 'In the green-lit sketches Tom buys a cappuccino; he purchases some salmon at a fish store; and the final sketch shows him walking the red carpet with then-wife Katie Holmes who towers over him. 'I wrote the scripts, hired the crew, locked down the locations and planned out my shot list.' He continued: 'After agonizing over the delay in receiving my first international wire transfer, I finally received approximately $40,000 on the first day of production. 'I used this to clear all my debt in one fell swoop. It felt incredibly satisfying. 'This was one of the pivotal parts of my career that I look back on which feels like a turning point and I feel so grateful to Tom for inadvertently looking over me,' he said. The New York native's career initially got off the ground when he made friends with Alex Merkin at Boston University who is now a Hollywood director. After leaving university, he had racked up $40,000 in credit card debt but soon found a unique way of paying it off He was hired by a company in Australia to shoot green-lit sketches impersonating Tom as his first job 'I finally received approximately $40,000 on the first day of production. I used this to clear all my debt in one fell swoop. It felt incredibly satisfying,' said Evan Alex who was able to mimic Jean-Claude Van Damme was the first one to point out how much his pal reminded him of Cruise with the duo performing a routine to pick up women. 'He was the one who told me that I seemed like Tom with his voice and his mannerisms. 'Alex did a great Jean-Claude Van Damme impression so we decided to use this as a college ice-breaker and to meet women. 'We used to knock on people's dorm rooms to do our routine. Some of the times we had great success and other times we had doors slammed in our face,' he recalled. In 2004, Evan decided to take things a step further. 'I decided to start making a montage of Tom's performances with a wig and glasses from my apartment in Astoria in Queens, New York. 'It caught people's attention in Hollywood and I started doing a mix of comedy sketches and live corporate performances. 'I've now worked as an impersonator for over two decades, travelling around the world including the US, UK, and New Zealand. Evan's college friend was the first one to point out how much the youngster reminded him of Tom Cruise Evan said: 'I decided to start making a montage of Tom's performances with a wig and glasses from my apartment in Astoria in Queens, New York' The now 44-year-old claimed that he earned enough money to cover the debt in 24 hours by mimicking the Mission Impossible star which became the start of his successful career in Hollywood 'The most requested characters from clients are Maverick from Top Gun, Jerry Maguire and Ethan Hunt from Mission Impossible. 'I've had some crazy reactions from the public including crying fans and others completely fooled by the impersonation that they thought they were talking to Tom Cruise himself,' he said. Evan has also met his idol a moment he says he will 'never forget.' 'It was at Chateau Marmont, an iconic landmark in Los Angeles while I was out for dessert and drinks with friends. 'A friend told me Tom had been seen there that day. I looked around but couldn't find him so I assumed we'd missed him. 'Suddenly I felt this energy to my left, turned around and saw Tom at a table having dinner with 20 people. 'I tried to buy him an expensive bottle of champagne but the waitress said it wasn't allowed so I continued with my evening. 'It caught people's attention in Hollywood and I started doing a mix of comedy sketches and live Corporate performances,' he explained Evan has worked as a impersonator for two decades and has traveled around the world doing so. Pictured: Evan (right) with a Leonardo DiCaprio impersonator (left) 'Tom left before us at around 1.45am. My girlfriend then went to the bathroom and said she'd run into Tom and that he was waiting outside for me. 'I couldn't believe it. I got out of my chair and literally sprinted to the valet and there he was! 'He slowly turned to me, we were drawn together and he was so kind and attentive. 'This was around eight years ago but I remember that he told me my voice was "uncanny," which is something I plaster on my website now,' he said. Interestingly Evan says his parents weren't huge fans of his career move at first but having seen his success and the joy he brings to a legion of Tom's fans, their opinion has since changed. 'My mom and dad weren't supportive at all at first. They used to say it was a complete joke and it's not a career. 'However, they're so different now they've seen my success and have embraced it and supported me so much. 'All my friends are just stunned at how I've managed to keep this up as a career for so long,' he confessed. Evan gets plenty of love from fans online too with dozens of users commenting on his Instagram. Interestingly Evan says his parents weren't huge fans of his career move at first but having seen his success and the joy he brings to his legion of fans, their opinion has since changed 'They're so different now they've seen my success, and have embraced it and supported me so much,' Evan confessed. Pictured: Evan (left) meeting Gordon Ramsay (right) 'All my friends are just stunned at how I've managed to keep this up as a career for so long,' Evan confessed. Pictured: Evan (right) meeting Jerry O' Connell (left) Evan gets plenty of love from fans online too, with lots of users commenting on his Instagram One wrote: 'The mouth and nose crinkle! If I close my eyes and listen it is Tom Cruise!' Another added: 'Is it weird that I am attracted to you as Tom Cruise?' Someone else commented: 'Every time you post I have to check it's not the actual Tom Cruise, you are the king.' Others said that Evan 'looked just like him' as another simply said: 'Omg you have the Tom Cruise smile.' They met at church and started dating in 2022 and he proposed in 2023 An engaged man who has never had sex with his fiancee has now opened up about the intensive daily 'honeymoon workouts' that he has been doing for two years in order to ensure he is in tip top shape for his wedding night. Tech sales representative Jonathan Louis, 24, is a practicing Christian who believes that 'your body is a temple and that in marriage, a man and wife give each other their bodies.' Prior to meeting his now-fiance, content creator Naya Ford, 23, at church in 2022, Jonathan had been abstinent for three years - something that his bride-to-be was more than happy to keep supporting. Jonathan proposed to Naya in May 2023 and the pair are planning to tie the knot in 2025 - but will continue to abstain from sex until that day. Knowing how special that moment will be for the two of them, Jonathan has been hitting the gym every day and going through a rigorous lifestyle regimen in order to ensure that he is in the best shape of his life going into his wedding night. An abstinent engaged couple is hitting the gym hard in order to get ready for their wedding night New York-based couple Jonathan Louis, 24, and Naya Ford, 23, are abstaining until their planned wedding in 2025 The two are getting ready for their big honeymoon night by hitting the gym consistently to build stamina and confidence in their bodies He has been eating supplements which are said to help in the bedroom and increase libido - such as sea moss, horny goat weed, maca root and ashwagandha. He has also been doing exercises such as hip thrusts and squats to hit all the right muscle groups so he knows he'll be good on their wedding night. As well as cardio so he 'doesn't get out of breath'. While they haven't yet set a date, they're aiming to marry in 2025 followed by a honeymoon in Southeast Asia or Greece. Despite it being over a year away yet, Jonathan wants his first night with Naya, a full-time influencer, to tick every box. 'As Christians, we believe your body is a temple and that in marriage, a man and wife give each other their bodies,' he explained. 'So I want to give her my best and make sure she likes what she sees. 'I believe the first time will be an experience, with all the excitement of the wedding planning and the marriage. 'Our first night will be the cherry on top!' Jonathan has been exercising four to five times a week to 'build stamina and endurance' and 'keeps his load [weights] 60 to 70 per cent with high volume for lower body' His gym workouts include lunges to 'increase blood flow to pelvic region' and 'hamstring strength and flexibility'; and hip thrusts to 'strengthen glutes, abs, hips and pelvic floor' 'I do it to respect her [Naya] but more importantly to Jesus, who I dedicated my abstinence to prior to meeting her,' Jonathan said Jonathan's intensive honeymoon workout Lunges - to increase his range of motion for getting depth in various positions. Builds hips, butt, and thigh endurance Stability ball push-ups and high planks - these boost arm endurance for having to hold yourself up on an unstable base such as a mattress Hip thrusts - simulating being on the bottom and strengthening and creating higher endurance in the glutes and hips. Activates pelvic floor to help prevent pre-ejaculation Sprints/runs - cardiovascular endurance so he doesn't tire out Kegels - support erectile strength and duration for perineal muscles Advertisement Naya added: 'I've been in the gym getting ready too, and Jonathan has been helping me. 'For me it's wedding day prep as much as honeymoon prep - I have got to look good in my dress. 'But I'm definitely looking forward to our first time together as well - this waiting isn't fun.' Jonathan and Naya have both had sex in the past, but have been abstinent in the time they have known each other. They became an item in October 2022 before Jonathan proposed in May this year. He said waiting until marriage hasn't been easy, and hasn't come without moments of temptation. He said: 'If we go for a late night out, we decide to meet up somewhere in the middle of us both so we're not tempted to sleep over because of a long journey home. 'Also what helps is an honest conversation - admitting 'I'm horny and you're horny' can help to relieve the tension.' Jonathan has been hitting the gym up to four times a week in preparation for their first time. He is also doing personal training work with Naya - to make sure they're both ready. He said: 'The goal is to be in my best shape - I want to be good for her so she can enjoy my body. 'Some of the highs of abstaining while being together have been getting a chance to know each other without being blinded by a sex high,' Naya said He argued that 'its not only for the bedroom.' Jonathan wants to be the 'best person' he can be for her 'physically, mentally and emotionally' Jonathan believes that 'abstaining is not meant to be perfection. It's meant to be a goal that you're shooting for' 'It's not only for the bedroom - I want to be the best person I can be for her physically, mentally and emotionally. 'But our private time together is what all the prep is for.' Jonathan has been eating supplements which are rumored to help in the bedroom and increase libido - such as sea moss, horny goat weed, maca root and ashwagandha. He has also been doing exercises such as hip thrusts and squats to hit all the right muscle groups so he knows he'll be good on their wedding night. He said: 'I'm doing all this cardio and all these HIIT workouts and burpees too - I don't want to get out of breath!' But he said the thing he is most looking forward to is 'spending time with her endlessly.' Jonathan said: 'Without physical intimacy it can be challenging. 'I can't wait to wake up and go to sleep with each other.' While Anna worked in Asia she got called a 'fatty' and a nurse tickled her belly A British woman has revealed the derogatory comments that she received about her weight while working abroad in Asia 'as a fat person'. Anna, 20, travelled around Asia while picking up work along the way. But the once-in-a-lifetime trip was affected by hurtful comments about her weight. The young woman, who works in the medical field, refers to herself as a 'gastric sleeve queen' because she recently underwent surgery on the NHS. But before the procedure, Anna experienced a stream of 'humbling' comments during her travels. Anna told her followers in the clip about the comments she received, which included fatty and bigger people sweat more, and said they altered her brain chemistry. Despite Anna's claim that she 'found it funny' because she isn't 'easily offended', many people in the comments thought otherwise. Anna took to TikTok to share the hurtful comments that she received while travelling around Asia, including being labelled a 'fatty' First Anna explained that a nurse tickled her belly while she was working. She wrote: 'A nurse in A&E tickling my belly whilst I was checking a patient's blood pressure and calling me a fatty.' The second incident occurred when Anna took to the beach to take a boat ride. Anna explained: 'The man handing life jackets out before getting on the boat pointing at me and shouting "You, big life jacket" before handing me the biggest life jacket I've ever seen.' Next, Anna struggled to find a seat belt that would fit over her body during a flight, making 'Asia the most humbling place I've ever been to.' She explained the situation, saying: 'The seatbelt not fitting on the plane and them not understanding when I asked for an extender.' The medic then explained an incident that happened during a shift in a hospital when the fans weren't working, making it 30 degrees indoors. But when Anna was dealing with the 'rough' conditions, she had to deal with snide comments from others on the ward. She wrote: 'The nurses giggling and pointing when I was sweating on the ward and saying to me "bigger people sweat more". ' Lastly, Anna said that when she told a midwife her age, she struggled to comprehend it given her size. Anna shared several offensive instances, including a nurse tickling her belly while she was working She wrote: 'When I told a midwife I was 20 her gasping and saying "so young but so big."' Viewers flocked to the comment section to share their horror at Anna's experience. One said: 'Nope I would be crying 24/7.' A second shared a similar experience: 'Girl I get it. Im a teacher in Vietnam and I have never felt so bullied in my life' to which Anna replied: 'Humbling to say the least.' A third added: 'Rough. You're beautiful, and obviously intelligent, talented, and adventurous. Keep your ear plugs in for the dummies!' A fourth said: 'I could neverrrrr.' Viewers flocked to the comment section to share their thoughts on Anna's experience, and many were shocked It comes after a tourist was shocked when she went shopping in Thailand and was directed to their plus size stores despite wearing a US small. Andrea, originally from Puerto Rico and Florida and Lewis, originally from Dublin, Ireland, were on holiday in Thailand when they went to a shopping mall to see if they could find some 'cute clothes.' The couple live in the US and travel around in an old school bus which they now call home. They asked a woman there which stores to go to, and she looked Andrea up and down and directed them to the fourth floor, they told their TikTok followers. However, much to their surprise, the woman had directed them to where the plus size shops were. Beebee Fat, Moo Moo Fat Girls, Fatty Fat Girl, Love Calories, Fat Cat, were just some of the names of the stores in that sector. Andrea could not believe what she saw, as she stood there open mouthed. King Charles returned from his groundbreaking state visit to France with a new spring in his step. The trip with Queen Camilla showed just how much the royal couple can achieve for Britain on the world stage, as they look forward to flying the flag across the globe in the months to come. Charles has always relished conquering new territories, with more than 100 working trips abroad since he left university in 1970 unlike his great-grandfather King George V, who hated 'abroad' so much he refused to set foot on foreign soil after he turned 60. If international affairs were of little interest, Georges problems were compounded by a major diplomatic problem rather closer to home. 'I wonder what my little German friend has to say to me,' snapped the prime minister after receiving a summons to Buckingham Palace in 1916. He was talking about his sovereign. Charles shakes the hand of French President Emmanuel Macron during his much-praised visit to France this month Cousins: George V (right) in his German military uniform with his cousin Kaiser Wilhelm II in Berlin in 1913, just one year before the outbreak of the catastrophic Great War with Germany and its allies A portrait of George V with his wife, the former Mary of Teck in their Coronation robes. They were the grandparents of Queen Elizabeth. While George had 60 first cousins, not one was British and Mary spoke English with a German accent The crusty old king, who terrorised politicians, courtiers and his children alike, was stuck in his ways and refused to listen to advice - no matter how important the advisor was. It was the year Britain's fortunes against the enemy in France reached their lowest ebb. And David Lloyd George's increasing disdain for the continuing 'German-ness' of the royal family was echoed through the aristocracy and the governing classes as the horrors of trench warfare gradually became known back home. READ MORE: Why are the royals STILL hiding their German past?: Queen urged to display German uniform worn by her grandfather as Britain headed for war with his cousin The Kaiser Advertisement The death toll was colossal, and understandably anti-German sentiment let to rioting, assaults on suspected Germans, and looting of stores with German names. People no longer played Bach and Beethoven on their pianos and gramophones, and it became the fashion among the owners of Dachshunds to have the dogs put down as a sign of patriotism. The writer HG Wells was the first to break ranks in public by criticising the monarch's 'alien and uninspiring court' stuffed, as he saw it, with freeloading German relatives. In fact, George himself was a German in all but name. Among his astonishing array of 60 first cousins, not a single one was British. His wife, the former Princess Mary of Teck, was of German blood but at least she spoke English albeit with a pronounced accent. So as the casualties continued to mount in the third year of the 'war to end all wars', more and more bereaved families, angry and bereft and in search of a scapegoat, turned against the royal family who continued blithely to welcome through their doors the Tecks, the Battenburgs and other relatives, all still using their foreign princely titles. Despite the complaints George resolutely stuck his to guns, telling the Foreign Secretary Asquith that his cousin Prince Albert of Schleswig-Holstein was 'not really fighting on the side of the Germans' - even though the prince was in charge of a Berlin prisoner-of-war camp holding British prisoners. David Lloyd George's increasing disdain for the 'German-ness' of the royal family was echoed through the aristocracy. He described George V as 'my little German friend'. Lloyd George is pictured here in 1909 Increasingly hidebound, George V refused to go abroad beyond the age of 60 - or see the problem with his German family name And it didn't help that one of George's first acts had been to secure the release of Gottlieb's German Band, a popular society act who'd been interned at the outbreak of hostilities. There was an outcry, but King George did not hear it now aged 50, he'd become short-sighted, hidebound, and deaf to criticism. Admiral of the Fleet Lord 'Jacky' Fisher sardonically dubbed the king and queen 'Futile and Fertile' [Mary having borne the king six children]. Questions were asked in Parliament about his German relatives. And now the enemy was edging ever closer, launching airstrikes on the British mainland. On 13 June 1917, a fleet of 23 German biplanes made their first-ever daylight raid on London, killing 162 and injuring 432. Among the dead were 16 children in a Poplar primary school. The nation was stunned. And then it emerged that the death-delivering planes went by the name of Gotha IV. The king's surname? Saxe-Coburg-Gotha. Just one month later, Buckingham Palace issued a hasty proclamation stating that, henceforth, the British royal family would be known as the House of Windsor. Kaiser Wilhelm II and cousin King George V in Berlin for the wedding of the Kaiser's daughter in 1913 King Charles III greets fans as he arrives at the Hotel de Ville in Bordeaux All royal relatives bearing foreign titles would ditch them in return for receiving British peerages and other honours. The First World War was by then three years old. King George had acted slowly and obtusely, rejecting public opinion, but now finally he wiped the slate clean, and Britain was able to tell itself that it truly had a home-made royal family. Many felt the king could have done it sooner, and done it better - but despite all, King George left behind a legacy which, means that, more than a century later, he House of Windsor under King Charles III now goes from strength to strength. As the saying goes, lessons were learned. Bhad Bhabie, 20, was recorded reacting to the popular combination in disbelief But UK diners often opt for beans or tuna as the go-to toppings instead In the US, baked potatoes are usually topped with sour cream, bacon and cheese Social media sensation Bhad Bhabie has shared her shock at discovered how British people serve baked potatoes. For most Americans, the toppings featured on baked potatoes are usually sour cream, bacon and cheese - but, as the rapper just learned, that is not universal, particularly when it comes to the British take on the dish, known in the UK as a jacket potato. Recently, Bhad Bhabie filmed a 13-second-long TikTok clip at a restaurant, where she expressed her exasperation about the go-to potato toppings in the UK. The 20-year-old looked perplexed as she explained that people in the UK put beans or tuna on their baked potatoes. Bhad Bhabie, 20, has been left stunned after discovering how Brits serve jacket potatoes The star looked perplexed as she explained that people in the UK put beans or tuna on the meal instead (stock images) The star made a passionate speech to the camera as she sat opposite a friend. She explained how a United Kingdom baked potato is prepared: 'They put tuna... tuna... like you know how you make tuna salad...put it on a sandwich,' she says while pretending she's using a knife to make the meal. 'They put it on top,' she says mid-laugh. 'They put it on top,' she repeats herself while banging on the table. 'On the f*****g potato,' she states flabbergasted. She makes a confused face directly at the camera before her dinner guest is heard saying: 'The jacket potato.' Bhad Bhabie then repeats back the name with a British accent. Overlaid text on the video read: 'Peeps you put tuna and or beans on baked potato?? I been out there a few times but never seen that.' A jacket potato is basically the UK's version of a baked potato, just with a different assortment of toppings. Bhad Bhabie featured in the 13-second-long TikTok clip recorded at a restaurant as she expressed her exasperation about the go-to potato toppings in the UK For most Americans, the toppings featured on baked potatoes are usually sour cream, bacon and cheese - but it seems that this is not universal (stock image) Instead of the US' go-to toppings of sour cream, crumbled bacon, chives, and shredded cheese, the UK's most popular toppings consist of beans or tuna. The one similarity that the baked potatoes share is the fact that its extra crispy outside and warm and fluffy inside. If foodies want to create a perfectly delicious jacket potato, it can take up to two hours to achieve the perfect balance. Besides its delightful flavor, potatoes are also loaded with vitamin C and fiber. To make the jacket potatoes, first prick them with a fork and rub a little olive oil all over. Bake it for 70 minutes and then let it cool for 10 minutes. If you'd like to add bacon, go ahead and place it on a frying pan on high heat until crisp. Then slice the top of the potatoes off and mix the fluffy inside part with cheddar, garlic, bacon, sriracha, and chili. Put the potato mix back inside the skins and bake for an extra 15 minutes with your toppings. Put a tablespoon of creme fraiche and a sprinkle of chives. Or, if you prefer the UK way, unlike Bhad Bharbie, swap out the inside mix to beans or tuna. The artistic director of the Moulin Rouge in Paris lays out her very specific requirements for new dancers in a documentary delving into the dog-eat-dog world of cabaret. Six-part docuseries Moulin Rouge: Yes We Can-Can, on BBC iPlayer, follows Janet, an ex-dancer from Leeds, as she tries to recruit more dancers for her troupe after she lost staff during the pandemic. The notorious cabaret club, which has been running for more than 130 years in Paris's Montmartre district, suffered an exodus of performers during lockdown as Janet reveals she still hasn't managed to staff the show back to its pre-pandemic levels. To begin her recruitment drive for the Moulin Rouge, Janet turns to her home nation of England and holds auditions in Leeds - as she reveals most of her performers are from cities and towns in the UK. Speaking to the camera during a mass dancing audition, the director reveals she has a very specific idea of what she's looking for in new performers - and if dancers don't match her precise stipulations, they're unsuccessful. 'I know exactly what I need, I always know what I need,' she says. '[The dancers] need to have the height with preferably legs out of proportion. This is because it makes the can-can kicks more spectacular.' She then examines the dancers as they learn a new routine for the audition - and tells one dancer who is wearing false eyelashes: 'Unless you know how to stick your lashes on properly, don't put them on.' Speaking to the camera, Janet also reveals her specific requirements for her dancers' breasts; 'well-formed', 'high' and 'not too big'. She adds she needs her dancers to sport figures that look 'good in the g-strings' - and is pictured helping a dancer adjust her knickers. Moulin Rouge: Yes We Can-Can, on BBC iPlayer, follows the Parisian cabaret show's artistic director Janet (pictured) as she recruits new dancers for her show One of the performers, Tooney (right) comes to the decision that she will leave the Moulin Rouge after 12 years During the first episode of the docuseries, Janet introduces some of her dancers at the Moulin Rouge - with almost all the performers hailing from the UK The docuseries delves into the glamorous world of cabaret at the Moulin Rouge, which has been running since 1889 One of the hopeful dancers auditioning for the Moulin Rouge is 22-year-old Erin from Liverpool, who reveals she has been rejected from the cabaret show three times. Like many of the dancers in the show, she is classically trained and studied at ballet school. At 5ft 11in, Erin was too tall to become a ballet dancer - and instead set her sights on cabaret. She is selected for the final stage of the audition, but she loses her way on the last sequence she is asked to perform. However, despite suffering with nerves during the dance, Janet offers her a job with the Moulin Rouge 'immediately'. After getting the offer, she says: 'I'm honestly lost for words... ecstatic.' Elsewhere in the episode, Janet reflects on her own career in cabaret as she sorts through photos of herself onstage at the Moulin Rouge 40 years ago. Speaking about the history of the Moulin Rouge, Janet describes it as 'the beginning of the liberation of women'. As she is quizzed on topless dancing, which is a key characteristic of the cabaret show, Janet concedes some people might find it 'outdated'. However she argues: 'It's part of beauty the same as the legs, arms, hands, face, hair... boobies.' One of Janet's longest-employed dancers, Jess, nicknamed Tooney, who is one of the few dancers selected to appear topless in the show, says she believes the nudity is managed in a 'classy way', despite initially being apprehensive. However, at the age of 32 and after 12 and a half years with the Moulin Rouge, she admits her career has not allowed her to pursue the things she wants in her personal life such as having a family. At the end of the episode, she reveals she has decided to leave the Moulin Rouge to pursue a career as an estate agent back in England, in her home city of Stratford-upon-Avon. Although she believes she is making the right decision, Tooney breaks down in tears at the 'daunting' prospect of beginning a new career. She says: 'It's all I've ever known to perform, and I don't know what it will be like to not do it.' The King should take a firm line with his wayward younger son - and refuse to provide a free British home for Prince Harry, says Richard Eden. In fact, he should go further, still and strip Harry of his special status as a Counsellor of State, one of the people who would stand in for the monarch were he to become unwell. Writing in the latest edition of his Palace Confidential newsletter, Eden explains that Charles has landed himself with an unexpected problem - because a Counsellor must be resident in Britain, yet Harry no longer has a home here. The answer, says Eden, is straightforward. The King should take a firm line with his younger son, says Richard Eden Earlier this year, Charles made the decisive move to evict the Duke of Sussex and Meghan from Frogmore Cottage, their home at Windsor 'Its time for the King to remove Harry as a Counsellor of State,' he writes. 'He should ask our lawmakers to remove the Duke of York at the same time. 'It would undermine His Majestys authority, and cause a public outcry, if he was to give Harry and Meghan a new home after their disgraceful attacks on the Royal Family.' Eden says he was among those who applauded King Charles when he made the decisive move to evict the Duke of Sussex from Frogmore Cottage. 'It made no sense for a couple who had quit official duties to be allowed to retain one of the biggest perks of life in "The Firm": a royal residence in a highly desirable location on a heavily guarded estate. 'Ill-advisedly, however, the King then extended an olive branch by allowing Prince Harry to remain as one of his Counsellors of State.' Others currently holding this role are Queen Camilla, Prince William, Princess Beatrice and, controversially, Prince Andrew, Duke of York. The King has recently asked Parliament to add Princess Anne and Prince Edward to the list. It made no sense for a couple who had quit official duties to be allowed to retain one of the biggest perks of life in The Firm: a royal residenc The King's correct decision has now come back to haunt him, says Eden. Because, by law, counsellors of state are required to have a British home 'This has now come back to haunt the King because, by law, counsellors of state are required to have a British domicile and Harry has no home here after giving up royal duties,' he explains. The Sunday Times reported that courtiers had discussed leasing a property on the royal estate to Harry and Meghan to try to resolve the counsellor-of-state conundrum. 'This, in my opinion, is the wrong approach,' says Eden. She noted that it made her want to transfer schools Alix said after being dropped from two sororities, she felt like 's***' Alix Earle has lifted the lid on her 'traumatizing' college sorority experience - admitting that she thought her life was 'over' and nearly transferred schools after going through the 'brutal' recruitment process. Gen Z's queen bee, 22, has opened up about 'the hell camp' she had to go through during her freshman year at the University of Miami when she was a budding sorority girl. The New Jersey native dished on how the 'disgusting' and 'traumatic' process of rushing to be in Greek Life and how being dropped from the two 'coolest' sororities at the university made her feel like she wasn't 'pretty enough', 'annoying', and 'weird.' In a new episode of her podcast titled, Hot Mess with Alix Earle, the influencer shared how she felt about Greek Life and why she dropped out. Alix has lifted the lid on her 'traumatizing' college sorority experience - admitting that she thought her life was 'over' and nearly transferred schools Gen Z's queen bee , 22, (pictured after being dropped from a sorority) has opened up about 'the hell camp' she had to go through during her freshman year at the University of Miami The New Jersey native (shown during her freshman year) dished on the 'disgusting' process of rushing and how she was dropped from the two 'coolest' sororities at the university Alix - who attended the University of Miami - revealed that during the second semester of her freshman year, she was a budding sister who was desperate to be a part of the most sought-after sororities at the college. Although she didn't reveal the names of the two sororities, she noted that her cousin - who was a grade above her - was in the 'coolest sorority in the world' and Alix wanted to follow in her footsteps. Describing the process, she said: 'We go home for winter break, and you come back and its rush week. 'All the girls get a set schedule and it's like four or five days. Im stressing out about what to wear, I'm like, "My outfits have to be perfect or they're not going to like me.' 'It feels like hell camp honestly,' she said of the recruitment process, which is when potential sorority members go through interviews before they may be offered a bid from a sorority house. Alix - who has previously opened up about her anxiety - revealed she was terrified of going into the houses. She said: 'I think I blacked out, I was going in and out of consciousness, I feel woozy, I don't even know what this girl is saying to me, and part of this has to do with my anxiety, but we were watching the sorority recruitment video that they were playing and I was like, Im going to faint right now, 'I literally could not speak like this was the scariest thing ever.' Alix (shown left during rush) revealed that during her second semester of her freshman year, she was a budding sister who was desperate to be a part of a sorority Although she didn't reveal the names of the two sororities, she noted that her cousin - who was a grade above her - was in the 'coolest sorority' and Alix wanted to follow in her footsteps Alix (shown during rush her freshman year) - who has previously opened up about her anxiety - revealed she was terrified going into the houses After each day of rush, the budding members ranked their top houses and the current members ranked their top students. Although the second day of rush was normal, by the third day, Alix felt like her life was 'over' because both of the sororities that she wanted to be in had dropped her. When she received the news, the influencer rushed to the bathroom to cry. She said: 'The bathrooms during rush are insane, there are always girls crying in there, it's a s*** show.' The influencer explained that being dropped from both houses deeply affected her self-confidence. 'It sucks, it hurts, it feels like someone does not like you, it's brutal. 'I thought my life was over in this moment. I remember the mascara running down my face,' she added. The 22-year-old even debated transferring schools because of how horrible she felt about herself. 'All I could think of was that I was going to have to transfer. This was the end of my social life, me having friends, and me having a good time at the University of Miami.' Although the second day of rush was normal, by the third day, Alix felt like her life was 'over' because both of the sororities that she wanted to be in had dropped her The influencer explained that being dropped from both houses deeply affected her self-confidence 'Then, my thought process goes from, "Okay I'm not going to be with any of my friends to what's wrong with me. '"Why am I the only one out of all of my friends that got dropped, am I not good enough? '"Am I not pretty enough? Do I not know how to hold a conversation? Am I annoying or am I weird?" 'Every possible negative thought was running through my head and I couldnt go home and cry because it was the last day of rush,' she said. After wiping her tears, Alix went on with the recruitment process. The last house the influencer went to helped make her feel better as they advised her to have an open mind. Ultimately, Alix received a bid and joined the last sorority house. During her sophomore year, Alix was on the other side of the process as she interviewed budding sorority members. She noted that it opened her eyes to how 'brutal and disgusting' the process was, explaining that houses put photos of the potential sisters on a PowerPoint and the girls voted yes or no. The 22-year-old - who became a TikTok sensation for sharing wild clips of her nights out - even debated transferring schools because of how horrible she felt about herself She later dropped out during her sophomore year. 'I was okay with it, I was still upset of course. I was so embarrassed to not be running with the two cool sororities,' she said adding that she was still debating transferring. However, after dropping out of the sorority, she realized her mindset was 'stupid.' 'This is the most shallow way to be, there is no cool sorority, there are no cool girls, it's about who you connect with, who you talk to, who genuinely cares about you. 'A lot of people just want the status of sororities,' she noted. Alix explained that she now realizes how 'ridiculous' her feelings were. 'Looking back, how I felt was crazy but it's stressful, these are the next four years of your life, these are your friends, your social life,' she said before adding that it's 'not that deep.' Alix noted that although it was a difficult experience, she wouldn't change anything about it because 'everything happens for a reason.' Ultimately, Alix received a bid and joined the a different sorority house, however, dropped out during her sophomore year Although she has yet to reveal the name of the sorority she was a part of, according to her LinkedIn, Alix was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha The 22-year-old graduated from the University of Miami in May and has since continuing to boast her lavish lifestyle on social media She left viewers who are planning to rush a sorority with some advice. 'Go into it with an open mind, dont be so scared, just be yourself. Its all going to work out, even if it doesn't feel like it, what's meant to be will be,' Alix added. Although she has yet to reveal the name of the sorority she was a part of, according to her LinkedIn, Alix was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha. The 22-year-old graduated from the University of Miami in May and has since continuing to boast her lavish lifestyle on social media as she recently launched her podcast to help fans get to know the real her. She said that corpses can 'open' their eyes and mouth - and can even 'hug' A forensic doctor has left social media users stunned after candidly revealing secrets from her job - including the five things that can happen when working with dead bodies. Texas-based doctor Mileida Bohorque regularly shares details from her unusual profession on TikTok, where she has more than one million followers. Recently, she revealed five processes that a corpse can go through after death from 'opening their eyes' to 'farting.' The video that the doctor recorded in Spanish has over 3.4 million views so far, with the Venezuelan mother-of-four sharing her experiences. A forensic doctor has left social media users stunned after candidly revealing secrets from her job - including the five things that can happen when working with dead bodies Texas-based doctor Mileida Bohorque regularly shares details from her unusual profession on TikTok, where she has more than one million followers Recently, she revealed five eye-opening processes that a corpse can go through after death from 'opening' eyes to 'farting' Firstly, Mileida explains that one of the first things bodies can do is release gas. The doctor said that many bodies she has worked on have 'farted' some more than once. Next, Mileida claims that her hand has been squeezed and she has also seen dead people 'open' their eyes including sometimes during autopsies. The doctor claims she has occasionally left the room and then returned to discover the person's mouth is also wide open. Lastly, according to the expert, corpses can try to 'hug' the person who is examining them. It is not clear if the doctor's experiences are due to post-mortem reactions in the body such as rigor mortis or other unexplainable reasons. But the revelations have nonetheless left social media users shocked. The post has so far received more than 209,700 likes, as well as thousands of comments. The doctor explained that corpses can 'fart,' 'open' their eyes and mouth and even try to 'hug,' all of which she's experienced personally It is not clear if the doctor's experiences are due to post-mortem reactions in the body such as rigor mortis or other unexplainable reasons Her revelations have left social media users stunned and some even experienced the same things One person said 'I've got goosebumps' as someone else commented: 'No way.' Another branded it as scary as others asked: 'Is this normal?' Based on her comments Mileida certainly isn't the only one intrigued by the experiences. Her greatest 'passion is teaching' and she 'really enjoys' the live shows that she records online. She uses her social media as a tool to explain anatomy, pathology and forensics in an easy way to her viewers. The doctor purchased a fake skull that she calls Mr Galen that is her 'model' for her 'virtual classes' on social media. One of Mileida's biggest inspirations is Venezuelan physician Jose Gregorio Hernandez who she mentioned in her online post after receiving her diploma from the University of Zulia Her 'greatest motivation' in life are her four boys whom she has had to raise them as a single mother after her husband passed away 11 years ago and she has found healing through her faith One of her biggest inspirations is Venezuelan physician Jose Gregorio Hernandez who she mentioned in her online post after receiving her diploma from the University of Zulia in her country. She proudly said that if she had the option to choose what to do in the next life she would choose anatomical pathology all over again. As a proud Venezuelan, she also shares the death practices that are sacred in her country. She posted online that the Yanomami tribe that resides in the mountains of Brazil and Venezuela cremate a person after death and then consume their ashes if they were a good person. The tribe believes that the good energy of the deceased person lives inside of the bones and by eating the ashes, the passed person reintegrates into their family group. If the deceased person was bad during their lifetime, they are simply cremated. Her 'greatest motivation' in life are her four boys. She's had to raise them as a single mother after her husband passed away 11 years ago and she has found healing through her faith. If struggling with a newborn wasn't difficult enough, Bringing Up Bates vet Trace Bates and his wife Lydia Romeike are now having to endure bitter online backlash after being accused of under feeding their newborn son. The uproar began when Lydia, 25, took to Instagram to celebrate the fact that her son, Ryker Cruise Bates, had gained one pound - after she was told by doctors at his first check-up appointment that he'd 'lost a good amount of weight'. According to Lydia, she and Travis, 26, were advised by their pediatrician to feed their son - who was born on September 12 - every two to three hours around the clock in order to get his weight, which had dropped to less than seven pounds, back up. Having followed this feeding schedule for a short while, Lydia said her son's weight rapidly improved - prompting her to drop his night feeds so that they could all sleep through until morning. However her admission sparked uproar from one lifestyle blogger, who accused the couple of being 'neglectful' and of 'underfeeding' Ryker - while slamming their decision to stop the 24-hour feeding cycle that doctors had recommended. Bringing Up Bates vet Trace Bates and his wife Lydia Romeike, pictured, have been criticized for their child's feeding schedule Lydia detailed how her firstborn, who is now 7lbs 6 ounces, had lost weight prompting their family to step in to help feed him at night so she could rest. Speaking on Instagram Stories, she said: 'Yeah, so we came home from the hospital and then went to his first pediatrician appointment, found out that he had lost a good amount of weight, which I know is normal, but since he was already pretty small, so anything under seven pounds I guess is considered small and premie. 'We ended up having to go back every week and we have to feed him every two and a half hours, 24/7, so that has been a lot. 'So we've had a lot of family come over and help, especially at night, so that we can at least get a little bit of a rest since two and a half hours basically drains you.' She continued: 'So today we went back and he is weighing seven pounds and six ounces and has basically gained a pound this past week, so he is now good on all his weight, which is amazing. 'He is eating a ton and now we can finally let him sleep throughout the night and not have to wake him up which we're very excited about.' The video caught the attention of Without A Crystal Ball blogger Katie Joy, who accused Lydia and Trace of 'under feeding' Ryker. 'Trace & Lydia Bates have been under feeding their newborn so badly that he lost a ton of weight. She took him to the pediatrician and they told Lydia to feed Ryker every 2.5 hours,' she wrote in a since-deleted post on Instagram. 'He was born on September 12, 2023. Lydia complained that waking up at night and having to feed a baby every 2.5 hours is really hard so they need family to help. 'He gained a pound in a week, so now Lydia is going to again stop feeding him overnight. Newborns and infants up to 4 months, especially those that are breastfed need to eat every 2-3 hours. She appeared to lambast them for allegedly taking advice from 'fundie circles' who she claims follow a book called Baby Wise which 'pushes feeding and sleep schedules that are not practical or safe for infants'. She continued: 'This has led to severe failure to thrive in babies. Infants do not have a big enough stomach to hold enough food to sleep overnight at 2 weeks old. The couple welcomed their son Ryker Cruise Bates on September 12, 2023 Lydia described how they learned their child had lost weight shortly after birth, and how their family stepped in to help feed Ryker at night They increased Ryker's feeding frequency after learning he had lost some weight The ultimate guide to baby feeding: How much experts say you should feed your child According to experts, newborn babies should be fed as and when they are hungry, with Jennifer Trachtenberg, MD telling The Bump that parents should learn to look for warning signs that indicate hunger. These include: Licking lips Rooting Fussiness Bringing their hand to their mouth Breastfeeding babies will typically nurse as often as eight to 12 times per day, or every two to three hours, while babies who are being fed formula tend to eat every three to four hours. Advertisement 'Lydia is facing deportation and is openly discussing neglecting her child. Some people should not be parents - feeding your child is literally the bare minimum. Ryker was born with Jaundice and she has been taking him out publicly. Hes already been sick and needed to go to the ER. 'For those claiming this is mom shaming, please exit left. This is 100% neglectful and the baby will end up underweight.' The American Pregnancy Association reports some weight loss is 'expected' in newborns in their first week of life. Responding to the accusations, Lydia's husband Trace told Today that they were following doctor's orders and have been told their child is 'very healthy'. 'We are doing exactly what the pediatrician told us to do,' he said. 'He has gained a ton of weight and they say hes a very healthy baby.' Pediatrician Dr. Jay Lovenheim told Today that Lydia has been feeding her child correctly. 'I tell parents to feed the baby every two to three hours in the daytime and every three to four hours at night for the first two weeks,' she said. However, once a child's weight increases, so will their energy and the amount of times they wake up for food. 'Once a baby gets back to their birth weight, they have more energy and starting waking up more to tell you, "Hey, Im hungry,"' he added. The Bates family announced Ryker's arrival on their blog earlier this month. 'Trace and Lydia Bates welcomed Ryker Cruise Bates at 11:54pm on September 12th, 2023. He weighed 6 lbs 8 oz,' they wrote. Trace and Lydia tied the knot last year in Jefferson City, Tennessee following a six month engagement. 'Today our lives changed forever!' the newlyweds told People at the time. 'We move from being best friends to being husband and wife so surreal! There are no words to describe how excited we are! We have waited for this day for so long.' Trace and Lydia welcomed documented their pregnancy and birth on Instagram The couple tied the knot last year in Jefferson City, Tennessee following a six month engagement Bringing Up Bates was a show which followed Gil and Kelly Bates and their 19 children. The show premiered in 2015 but was cancelled after 10 seasons. UPtv announced last year they would not be moving forward with the program despite previously announcing the show would return for season 11. In their own statement, the Bates family told UsWeekly: 'As the next year begins, our family will be experiencing a lot of new changes. One of the biggest changes for us is that the network will be moving toward producing more scripted family shows and will not be renewing a contract to film new Bringing Up Bates episodes. 'We realize God's timing is always perfect, and we are looking forward to what the future holds for our own family, as well as the network!' They added: 'The last ten seasons of filming with Bringing Up Bates have been an amazing journey for our family. We never expected or aspired to be on TV, but we are forever grateful to UP for all of the friendships we have formed as a result. 'Filming and opening up our home has been both rewarding and challenging, but there are not enough words we could say to show appreciation for the amazing film crew and all of the staff who have invested so much time into making this show possible. 'They have become family and have impacted us forever. We are also grateful for all of the encouragement we have received over the years from those who have watched the show and have reached out to message us or pray for us.' They finished their statement by writing: 'Most of all, we are thankful to God for the experiences we've shared together as a family and for the lessons we've learned along the way. We feel very blessed to have these memories.' 'We look forward to the next chapters of life unfolding before us with lots of new adventures. We promise to keep you updated on our lives in the days ahead and pray that God will richly bless each of you. Our greatest desire is that we would each strive to learn more about God and to grow in His grace.' Sofia Coppola has revealed how Priscilla Presley was 'complimentary' of her work as they shot the upcoming biopic about her life with the King of Rock 'N' Roll. Elvis and Me, which is based on the 1985 memoir written by Priscilla, chronicles her early relationship with the late rock icon. The upcoming film was directed by Coppola, 52, and stars Cailee Spaeny, 25, as Priscilla and Jacob Elordi, 26, in the leading roles. Coppola has revealed how 78-year-old Priscilla praised her efforts on the film and became heavily involved in telling her story - despite members of Elvis' estate slamming the biopic and claiming the film was produced without the knowledge or permission of the family. Sofia Coppola (pictured in her W Magazine shoot) has revealed how Priscilla Presley was 'complimentary' of her work as they shot the upcoming biopic about her life with the King of Rock 'N' Roll Elvis and Me, which is based on the 1985 memoir written by Priscilla, chronicles her early relationship with the late rock icon Speaking with W Magazine, Coppola said: '[Priscilla] was open and complimentary of my work but she was a bit tentative. 'I sent Priscilla the script, and she went through it page by page and gave me specific details, like "I didn't have a teddy bear on my bed." 'But, in the end, I did reinvent some things, like Elvis's bedroom. I wanted him to have a man cave - very dark and mysterious.' The icon also spoke frequently with Cailee over the phone, and went in-depth on the emotions she experienced in each scene and before any moment with Elvis. But Cailee revealed that she had to put the brakes on their phone calls to avoid being too influenced. 'We had many phone calls, but once I started filming, I stopped speaking to Priscilla because it became too overwhelming,' she said. 'In the end, it had to be Sofia's vision.' On many different levels, Sofia said she felt a connection with a Priscilla. Aside from the fact they both share similar childhoods - with both having to relocate frequently - Sofia also identified with Priscilla becoming absorbed in her relationship with Elvis. Strike a pose: Coppola looked breathtaking in an accompanying photo shoot for W Cover girl: The daughter of famed director Francis Ford Coppola appears on the cover of W's Volume 5, The Originals Issue 'By day, Priscilla went to Catholic school in Memphis for her senior year, and at night she would party with Elvis,' she explained. 'I found that reality fascinating: She wasn't allowed to have friends over to Graceland, and she'd hear other girls whispering about her. She was so isolated. 'It was strangely relatable: In my 20s, I remember having a crush on a guy, and part of it was, if I was with him, then I wouldn't have to develop an identity of my own: I could just be the girlfriend of this guy, and that would be so much easier. 'I was devastated when that relationship didn't work out. But it forced me to find my own personality, and that's a similar story to what happened with Priscilla - she lost herself in Elvis.' She also admired Priscilla for her decision to split from Elvis during a difficult era for women. 'I was so impressed that Priscilla left Elvis,' she told the outlet. 'She was always trying to be his fantasy, his ideal woman. I think about my mom's generation and how hard it was to be independent. 'Women without any power or money at that time had nothing when they left their husbands. Priscilla had courage, and that seemed, to me, to be a universal theme.' Collaborative effort: Speaking with W Magazine, Coppola revealed how Priscilla, 78, praised her efforts on the film and became heavily involved in telling her story 'She lost herself in Elvis': Sofia also identified with Priscilla becoming absorbed in her relationship with Elvis 'Sofia did an amazing job': Priscilla (pictured in 2022) has previously praised Coppola's adaptation, though admitted it was 'difficult' to watch a film based so closely to her life 'She went through it page by page': Presley offered Coppola feedback on the Elvis and Me script In an accompanying photo shoot for the magazine, Sofia looked striking in an array of poses. She also appears on the cover of the magazine's Volume 5, The Originals Issue. Priscilla has previously praised Coppola's adaptation, though admitted it was 'difficult' to watch a film based so closely to her life. According to The Hollywood Reporter, she said at a panel: 'It's very difficult to watch a film about you and about your life and about your love. 'But Sofia did an amazing job. She did her homework. And I really put everything out for her that I could.' The latest interview comes several months after members of Elvis' estate bashed the film, with one individual connected to the organization describing Coppola's writing and directing as 'horrible,' according to TMZ. The official added the whole production 'feels like a college movie.' 'The set designs are just horrific, it's not what Graceland looks like,' the official said. Lights, camera, action! The trailer, which was released five months after the passing of the couple's child, Lisa Marie Presley, showed flashes of their lives together Coming soon: The film is set for release on November 3 But Priscilla spoke glowingly about the project. 'I am very excited to see the interpretation of my book by the masterful Sofia Coppola. She has such an extraordinary perspective and I have always been such an admirer of her work. 'I'm certain this movie will take everyone on an emotional journey,' said Priscilla. The film is set for release on November 3 and will follow Elvis and Priscilla's romance, from their first meeting, their marriage in 1967 and subsequent divorce. A trailer for the film showed flashes of their lives together and was released five months after the passing of Priscilla and Elvis' child, Lisa Marie Presley. It follows the release of Baz Luhrmann's successful Elvis biopic, which garnered eight Oscar nominations, including Best Actor for Austin Butler and Best Picture. Many of his 87K followers were impressed by her skills as well as his parenting A proud father has revealed how he let his six-year-old tattoo him as part of a bonding experience. Arizona-based Wesley Owens had his daughter Adeline tattoo both a heart and smiley face on his leg. He said that her work was a 'masterpiece' and 'means the world to both of us.' But the Louisiana native wasn't the only one in awe of the young artist - with many of his 87,000 TikTok followers left impressed by her art as well as his parenting skills. A proud father has revealed how he let his six-year-old tattoo him as part of a bonding experience Arizona-based Wesley Owens had his daughter Adeline tattoo a heart and smiley face on his leg and said: 'This [heart] tattoo means the world to both of us' The doting father, who works as a tattoo artist himself, filmed the three times that Adeline tattooed him at his parlor. During Adeline's first tattoo she got a bit hesitant mid-session before her father encouraged her by saying: 'You got it, you can do it.' And it resulted in a thin heart silhouette that he adored. Wesley let the tattoo heal and brought his daughter back for a touch-up session. He showed her the healed tattoo and she said: 'Oh it looks really good.' The dad was then recorded saying: 'I think it looks really good too but would you mind doing a touch up for me?' She agreed and said: 'Yeah, for sure.' 'How it heals this time is how it will be forever and I absolutely love it!!!!!,' he lovingly wrote in the video's text. At the end of the clip he said 'I'll tip you with some ice cream tonight,' to which the negotiator responded that she wanted a toy instead - and a toy is what she eventually got, according to the dad's comment online. Wesley decided that he would let Adeline tattoo him again, revealing: 'I decided to let Adeline tattoo a smiley face next to the heart she tattooed last time' But he wasn't the only one in awe of the young artist - with many of his 87,000 TikTok followers left impressed by her art as well as his parenting skills Wesley decided that he would let Adeline tattoo him again, revealing: 'I decided to let Adeline tattoo a smiley face next to the heart she tattooed last time.' And the youngster displayed even more confidence the third time around. 'She's gotten so much more comfortable since last time. She's not even bothered that it hurts me a little. I think if she sticks with this she may have a future in tattooing. 'I wonder how many other six-year-old's are tattooing their dad. I love it when she tattoos me. Each one turns out absolutely perfect,' the voiceover said. He called her work a 'masterpiece' but Wesley wasn't the only impressed one - with his followers in awe. Flocking to the comments, one person wrote: 'When she has a customer years down the road ask how long she's been tattooing... "Since I was six." Well done dad.' 'If she ever becomes a tattoo artist, you should have her do another heart next to that one,' another added. A third chimed in: 'I love how she looks to you every time for confirmation and you just continue to boost her confidence. Cutest thing ever! I would 100 per cent let her tattoo.' 'I love that she noticed a spot she wanted to fix all on her own. That's a kid who's learning how she wants her art to look. You're such a great dad,' wrote another fan. One person added: 'Tattoo her name in her writing. Wish I did it when my son my little.' 'The way Ive raised her, shes not scared of much. Snakes, spiders, heights, and unknown adventures are things shes grown up to love,' said the dad to his tattoo client 'Adeline said "Daddy, can I put on your chains and be cool like you?" I said "you're already cooler than me, but I'll let ya try em' on." She makes my heart smile sometimes,' he wrote 'Im seriously so proud of the person she is becoming. I hope she never loses her passion of enjoying life at the fullest capacity,' the father wrote dotingly on Instagram When one commentator was in awe of his encouragement towards his daughter he responded: 'I wish all parents encouraged their kids like this. The world would be a better place for sure.' Someone commented on the 'strong bond' that the two share. He replied: 'We have to. We depend on each other so much. We have the perfect dynamic.' The father and now eight-year-old daughter continue to explore together and love going hiking, rock-climbing and going to the circus. 'I mentioned that Adeline climbs to someone I was tattooing the other day, and they were like "so she's not scared of heights?" 'I said, honestly, the way I've raised her, she's not scared of much. Snakes, spiders, heights, and unknown adventures are things she's grown up to love. 'I say this every time I make a post about her, but I'm seriously so proud of the person she is becoming. I hope she never loses her passion of enjoying life at the fullest capacity,' the father wrote dotingly on Instagram. Ozempic patients no longer have a desire to drink alcohol and get drunk faster Many Americans taking the blockbuster drug Ozempic have 'no desire' to drink, have stopped gambling, and find themselves no longer interested in their favorite foods. It's well-established that Ozempic, an injectable medication approved for diabetes, has helped millions of Americans lose weight by reducing their appetite and cravings for unhealthy foods. However, a growing body of research suggests its active ingredient, semaglutide, could also curb appetites for alcohol, nicotine, nail-biting, and even gambling. Users told DailyMail.com they have stopped wanting to consume alcohol, which made them feel better after a night out, and it has made them 'excited' to see what other habits Ozempic may change. They also said it could be a game-changer for alcoholics and those struggling with other addictions. Ozempic users have previously told DailyMail.com the drug has caused them to no longer crave alcohol Ozempic and its sister drug Wegovy work by triggering the body to bind to a receptor called the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a protein that triggers hormones in the brain that keep the stomach full and tell the body to stop eating and avoid cravings Karen Ramirez, 32, a high school teacher from Rhode Island, started taking Ozempic in February for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects one in 10 American women of childbearing age, according to the US Office on Women's Health. It causes the ovaries to produce excessive amounts of the male sex hormones. This leads to irregular menstrual cycles, abnormal hair growth, acne, obesity, thinning hair, and infertility. Ms Ramirez told DailyMail.com: 'I always had really inconsistent periods. Sometimes, I would go months without having a period, which is obviously not normal, even though I wouldn't be pregnant or anything like that.' While she was pregnant two years ago, she developed gestational diabetes, which is diagnosed in pregnant women who aren't already diabetic. She was also constantly hungry and unable to lose weight. Doctors put Ms Ramirez on Ozempic to help balance her hormones earlier this year. Since then, she has lost about 20 pounds and stopped snacking. She also has no desire to drink alcohol. 'I've never been a drinker. I've always been a social drinker. I'll have a glass of wine, or I'll have some beer...but now I do not even want to try it at all,' she said. 'It kind of grosses me out, to be honest.' Before Ozempic, Ms Ramirez would have no more than three drinks at a social event. Now, she barely wants to order one. 'I don't really see the need to have wine or have a beer, and if I do, I'll have one glass,' she said. She's far from alone. A TikTok user who goes by myshellk said in a video: 'Since being on Ozempic, I have no desire to drink.' She also said these effects could be helpful for those struggling with alcoholism. That would be really cool if someone who needs that can have access,' she said. Im excited to see what other cool things [Ozempic] will have an effect on. One of the other effects could be a loss of interest in a user's favorite foods. Staci Rice, 40, who reports taking semaglutide said her favorite chocolate candy, Kit Kats, are now repulsive to her. Mel, (left) who goes by the username Cgo_of_me on TikTok, shared she recently went out for two martinis while taking Ozempic. She woke up feeling 'violently, violently sick.' From now on, I wont be drinking. Neither should you,' she said. Karen Ramirez (right) posted on TikTok and told DailyMail.com that Ozempic made her 'disgusted' by alcohol Staci Rice (pictured), 40, said that she can no longer stomach coffee or Kit-Kats after using Wegovy Another TikTok user named christienano said she can no longer drink red wine, her beverage of choice. However, she insisted, 'that's not a bad thing.' You absolutely lose your craving for alcohol, and that really helps in weight loss as well,' she said. Ozempic is a brand name for the medication semaglutide, which suppresses appetite and triggers weight loss. The drug binds to the GLP-1 receptor, a protein that triggers hormones in the brain that keep the stomach full and tell the body to stop eating and avoid cravings. A report published Wednesday by Trilliant Health found that prescriptions for the drug quadrupled from early 2020 to the end of next year, with providers writing more than nine million prescriptions in the last three months of 2022. The research is limited, but scientists also believe Ozempic can control the brains complex reward pathway that floods the brain with a rush of dopamine when something good happens, such as biting into a delicious cookie, and encourages you to eat more. This could potentially curb addictive behaviors, such as drinking alcohol, smoking, or even gambling. A study published in July in the journal eBioMedicine on mice measured the effects of semaglutide on alcohol consumption. The mice had previously been exposed to alcohol and had grown to enjoy it. During the study, they were allowed free reign of alcohol in addition to their food and water. Rodents taking semaglutide consumed half the alcohol of those given a placebo. Even when researchers took their alcohol away to give them stronger cravings, they still drank much less than the placebo group when the alcohol was made available again. Cajsa Aranas, a doctoral student who worked on the study, said the research suggests semaglutide inhibits this craving. 'Alcohol activates the brains reward system, resulting in the release of dopamine, something that is seen in both humans and animals,' she said. 'This process is blocked by the medication in mice, and with our interpretation, this could cause a reduction in the alcohol-induced reward.' The researchers said while the findings were promising, more is needed before semaglutide can be given to people struggling to quit alcohol. Another study published last year found the GLP-1 agonist exenatide (Byetta) lowered activity in crucial brain areas for drug reward and addiction. Other adults who have shared their Ozempic side effects on social media noted the drug slashed their tolerance for alcohol, making them get drunker faster. Mel, who goes by the username Cgo_of_me on TikTok, shared she recently went out for two martinis while taking Ozempic. It didn't take long before she felt far more intoxicated than usual. 'It was like I had drank 10 martinis,' she said in a video posted last month. When she woke up the next morning, Mel felt 'violently, violently sick' and had the lowest blood sugar of her life. I broke out in shakes. I was vomiting. I was disoriented, and my husband had to sit with me while I drank straight juice and honey sticks, and we almost went to the ER,' she said. From now on, I wont be drinking. Neither should you. Additional Ozempic users have reported the drug made them quit other vices, such as gambling. One user saw their gambling addiction gradually subside, an addiction spurred on by heavy Adderall use. The user said: 'I first took Ozempic on January 15th. Almost immediately the thought of gambling seemed so obviously stupid - not just dumb financially but a waste of time. It actually seemed boring to me for the first time ever. 'Now all the addictions are gone and Ive lost 50 lbs and losing steadily. Its been almost like a literal miracle for me!' Advertisement The state of Maryland holds the top spot for the highest rate of Alzheimer's disease in the United States, despite it faring better in obesity rates, household income and residents with health insurance. The traditionally Democratic state nestled next to the nation's capital has more than one in eight over people 65 years and older with the condition, compared to around one-in-10 nationally. Maryland is also the only state to have two counties with the top-10 highest Alzheimer's rates. Baltimore City was tied for first place with 16.6 percent of people older than 65 years old and Prince George's County was fourth with 16.1 percent - The findings were detailed in the first-ever report of Alzheimer's rates at the county level published in The Journal of the Alzheimers Association. Megeen White, a medical research champion for the Alzheimer's Association's Maryland chapter, said: 'The study just confirms that, yes, that it is a health crisis in our community, we need to address it as such.' Dr Kumar Rajan, author of the report, said prevalence of the disease in Maryland is due to a higher number of Black and Hispanic residents. These minority groups may have elevated rates of the dementia, health experts say, because they have higher incidences of heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure - all conditions that impact brain health. Previous research has shown older Black Americans are twice as likely to have Alzheimer's or other dementias than older whites and older Hispanics are about 1.5 times more likely to have the disease than their white counterparts due to confounding factors of comorbidities and social aspects, such as racism and discrimination. Diabetes is more prevalent among Black Americans, at a rate of 12 percent, and among Hispanics at a rate of 11.8 percent. Among White Americans, the rate is 7.4 percent. High blood pressure is also more common in Black Americans (56 percent) than white Americans (48 percent). Of Baltimore City's nearly 570,000 residents, 62.3 percent are Black, compared to the national average of 9.4 percent, and 6.3 percent are Hispanic, though the national average is higher at 8.8 percent. And across Maryland the number of minorities is also higher than average. In the state, 31.7 percent of residents are Black and 11.5 percent are Hispanic. New York was a close second to Maryland, with an Alzheimer's prevalence of 12.7 percent. However, New York has a lower rate of minorities among its total population. Just under 18 percent of New Yorkers are Black and 19.7 percent are Hispanic. New York's Bronx County, which tied Baltimore with a 16.6 percent Alzheimer's prevalence, had higher rates of minorities than the country average, but still less than those of Baltimore, with 30 percent of the population identifying as Black and 47 percent as Hispanic. However, New York state did have a higher rate than Maryland of residents 65 years and older - 18.1 percent. Health experts and Alzheimer's specialists all agree the greatest risk factor of Alzheimer's disease is age, and nearly 16 percent of people in Baltimore City are 65 years and older, compared to the national average of 12 percent. In Maryland, 17 percent of residents are 65 years and older. Ms White added: 'We need to ensure enough awareness, education and support for all involved, but especially for those over 65.' In addition to coexisting medical conditions, the Alzheimer's Association said the higher prevalence of Alzheimer's among Blacks and Hispanics can likely be explained by health and social disparities, as well as the marginalization and discrimination of these groups in the United States, which has been deeply rooted in history. The association highlighted structural racism, which influences housing, education, employment, safety and exposure to pollutants. It also influences access to health services, care and prevalence of other health problems. Following a 2022 report by the association that looked at racism and dementia, Dr Adriana Perez, a nurse practitioner and professor of nursing at the University of Pennsylvania said: 'The consistent and pervasive lack of resources, as well as social and environmental factors, lead to disparities in other health outcomes such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, which increase the risk for Alzheimers and other dementias.' And Dr Rev Miriam Burnett, medical director of the African Methodist Episcopal Church International Health Commission, echoed those sentiments: 'These systemic disparities are related to less access to important health-protecting resources such as high-quality care and social networks that provide valuable health information and support.' The cumulative stress these factors put on a person 'may directly influence dementia risk' among Black and Hispanic people, the association said. Nearly 13 percent of residents 65 or older in Maryland have Alzheimer's disease, compared to the national average of 10.7 percent Counties with most Alzheimer's cases County Miami-Dade County, FL Baltimore City, MD Bronx County, NY Prince George's C., MD Hinds County, MS Orleans Parish, LA Dougherty C. GA Orangeburg County, SC Imperial County, CA El Paso, TX Proportion (%), 2020 16.6% 16.6% 16.6% 16.1% 15.5% 15.4% 15.3% 15.2% 15% 15% The data is for the proportion of the population aged 65 years and over Advertisement Most recently, Ms White acknowledged this stress: '[The] study found that most likely those both personal and systemic experiences of racism do increase an individual's risk of Alzheimer's or other dementia. That could be potentially due to the increased stress levels in the body.' Dr Keith Vossel, the Alzheimers Disease Program Director in the department of neurology at the University of California Los Angeles, told DailyMail.com marginalized groups experience stress, violence, discrimination and racism. All of these life experiences can influence epigenetic changes. While genetic changes alter genes, epigenetic changes affect gene expression. Epigenetic changes do not physically alter DNA, but rather alter the way a gene is expressed. Dr Vossel said: 'These experiences can be passed down generation to generation through epigenetic changes.' Genetics also play a strong role in the risk of Alzheimer's and in 2022, researchers identified 31 new genes that appear to affect processes that play a role in the disease. Of the genes, one called APOE-e4 has the strongest impact on risk. Everyone inherits one of three forms of the APOE gene from their parents - e2, e3 or e4 - and scientists discovered that having the e4 form of the APOE gene increases a person's risk the most of developing the disease. First warning sign of Alzheimer's may be a bizarre symptom, study suggests A loss of smell is a surprising early warning sign of Alzheimer's disease, a new study suggests. Advertisement People who inherit one copy of this gene have three times the risk and people who inherit two copies of e4 have an estimated eight- to 12-fold risk of developing the dementia. These people are also more likely to develop the disease at a younger age. African Americans are more likely than other races to have this gene. However, researchers stressed this is still a new discovery and there are other aspects that contribute more to an increased risk that need to be addressed. Maryland has previously acknowledged the high rate of Alzheimer's in the state, releasing a four-year plan to address the disease and passing a law to increase access to in-home care services for people with dementia. The plan's goals to address the 'crisis' include increasing public awareness, educating people about the disease, improving care quality, supporting family caregivers and promoting innovation through data and research. Education and communication are two major hurdles to overcome with the minority population and healthcare community when it comes to Alzheimer's diagnosis and treatment, Dr Vossel said. While mistrust leads to a lack of communication, Dr Vossel said many people ask why there are no doctors 'that look like them' that work with dementia patients. He added: 'Unfortunately there aren't enough neurologists and dementia specialists from underrepresented groups. Doctors need to be able to identify with their community.' In addition to a lack of minority doctors, there is also a lack of access to doctors and healthcare facilities in general. Dr Vossel has heard from the community that they have transportation issues getting to healthcare institutions and that large or prestigious institutions that provide dementia care are not in their neighborhood, severely limiting patients' abilities to receive proper a timely diagnosis and treatment. Addressing the high rates of dementia in minority populations will require a multi-faceted approach and Dr Vossel said it will require everything from establishing a stable educational system that meets the needs of all its students, developing measures to combat heart disease and diabetes, implementing dementia screenings at routine doctors visits and allowing for doctors to be reimbursed for those screenings. A 'Frankenstein' opioid estimated to be up to 40 times more potent than fentanyl is now sweeping Britain, experts have warned. Nitazenes are made in clandestine Chinese labs and smuggled into the UK through the usual criminal channels. The synthetic drug which cash-hungry dealers mix into heroin because it is cheap, addictive and boosts its euphoric effect is blamed for fuelling an 'unusual' increase in overdoses and deaths over the past few months. As well as being mixed into other substances, it is also being sold as oxycodone pills or Xanax powders, according to charities. Experts told MailOnline the rise of nitazenes in the UK is 'very worrying', with the addictive drugs now seen in most regions. For most, it is 'too late' before they realise they have taken nitazenes. Nitazenes are made in clandestine Chinese labs and smuggled into the UK through the usual criminal channels. Two dozen deaths were linked to the isotonitazene, a form of nitazene, in 2021 alone, according to data from the UK's Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs Nitazenes were originally developed as painkillers by Swiss pharma company Ciba in the 1950s but they never reached the market. They have, however, cropped up among drug users in the US over the past few years, seeing them nicknamed 'Frankenstein' opioids as they are so powerful. It is thought to have formally arrived in the UK around two years ago, when the National Crime Agency first spotted it among overdose patients. Available in powder, tablet and liquid form, they can be injected, swallowed, placed under the tongue, snorted and vaped. The drugs trigger feelings of pain relief, euphoria, relaxation and sleepiness. But they can also lead to sweating, itching and nausea. What are nitazenes? Nitazenes are a synthetic opiod made in clandestine Chinese labs. They have been blamed for fuelling an 'unusual' increase in overdoses and deaths over the past few months. They are mixed into heroin and has also been detected in oxycodone pills and Xanax powders, according to charities. Nitazenes were originally developed as painkillers by Swiss pharma company Ciba in the 1950s but they never reached the market. Available in powder, tablet and liquid form, they can be injected, swallowed, placed under the tongue, snorted and vaped. The drugs trigger feelings of pain relief, euphoria, relaxation and sleepiness. But they can also lead to sweating, itching and nausea. Advertisement Nitazenes mimic the effects of natural opioids such as morphine and are often cut with these drugs, creating a deadly cocktail. Users do not always know they are consuming nitazenes, with police forces finding people who thought they were taking heroin were actually taking nitazenes, paracetamol and caffeine. Two dozen deaths were linked to the isotonitazene, a form of nitazene, in 2021 alone, according to data from the UK's Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs. Iso, often called 'Tony', is the most common one found in toxicology reports, experts told MailOnline. Addition clinics say the nitazenes come from unregulated labs in China. Experts believe these labs poured over research papers for early attempts at developing synthetic opioids and stumbled across nitazenes, which are cheaper to make than fentanyl. Fentanyl itself is liked by dealers for being so cheap, compared with heroin. The rising presence of nitazenes in the UK has been blamed on the Taliban clamping down on the poppy harvest in Afghanistan, which provides most of the UK's heroin. It has forced criminal gangs to seek alternatives. In July, the OHID issued a national patient safety alert warning of the drug. While around 40 opioid drug deaths are logged in England and Wales every week, on average, there has been an 'elevated number of overdoses', mainly among heroin users, some of which resulted in death. However, the OHID did not share its data. Cases are geographically widespread, with a few cities and towns in most regions of the UK affected, according to the OHID. It said testing suggested that nitazenes, which can be bought on the dark web, were the 'common cause' behind the overdoses. 'Their potency and toxicity are uncertain but perhaps similar to, or more than fentanyl, which is about 100x morphine,' the OHID added. It urged the NHS teams, emergency service providers and private and voluntary drug and alcohol services to be aware of the 'risk and severe toxicity' of taking heroin with nitazenes and warn drug users. Available in powder, tablet and liquid form, nitazenes can be injected, swallowed, placed under the tongue, snorted and vaped Fentanyl itself is liked by dealers for being so cheap, compared with heroin The OHID noted that naloxone the antidote to opioid overdoses works against nitazenes. But it has to be delivered 'rapidly' as the drug is more likely to trigger respiratory arrest because it is so powerful. Research suggests patients who take too much nitazenes typically need two doses of naloxone to recover, compared with fentanyl users only needing one. Nitazenes are a Class A substance, meaning possession can lead to seven years in prison, while supplying can carry a life sentence. Unlimited fines may also be dished out for both offences. Police forces have issued alerts about the nitazenes in recent weeks, warning that they are 'incredibly dangerous' and can be 'fatal' when taken in the same dosage as natural opioids. READ MORE: Warning over serious statins side effect as health chiefs urge patients taking cholesterol-busting pills to 'be alert' to potentially killer complication Seven types of statins medications have been linked to myasthenia gravis a long-term muscle-weakening condition that can be life-threatening in severe cases Advertisement West Mercia, which covers Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire, reported that nitazenes have been behind up to 20 overdoses in the area. Charities in Birmingham say they logged more than 30 overdose deaths in June and July. Twenty-four were linked to isotonitazene three times more than usually expected of any individual drugs over the summer months. Experts have expressed concern that nitazenes could crop up in other drugs, such as ketamine and cocaine, as has been seen with fentanyl. This could increase the overdose risk among a wider pool of drug users. National agencies are working together in the worst-affected areas, which are warning drug users of the risks and ensuring more naloxone is available. Ian Hamilton, as associate professor of addiction at the University of York, told MailOnline that the rise in nitazenes deaths is 'very concerning although not surprising given how potent they are'. He said: 'They have begun circulating over the last year in part due to the reduction in supply of heroin from Afghanistan as the Taliban clamp down on opium cultivation. 'Unfortunately demand for opiates has not reduced and it seems these type of drugs are filling the gap. 'Most people won't be aware that they are using these types of opiates or how strong they are until it's too late and they experience problems including overdose.' Professor Colin Davidson, head of pharmacy and biomedical sciences at the University of Central Lancashire, told MailOnline that nitazenes are 'very worrying'. He said: 'Some are more potent than fentanyl and heroin which are two of the most dangerous drugs of abuse.' Studies suggest that they drugs stop animals from breathing at lower doses than fentanyl, and had a much longer effect. 'It is the cessation of breathing that makes these drugs so dangerous. Fortunately, overdoses can be treated with naloxone if giving quickly enough,' he added. A government spokesman said: 'Any death from an illegal drugs overdose is an avoidable tragedy, that is why we're committed to combating the trade and use of illegal drugs. We're working with partners to monitor this situation closely, detect and break drug supply chains, warn people who might be at risk, and save lives. 'More widely, our 10-year drug strategy is driving up drug treatment and we are investing 532million to tackle addiction. 'By the end of the parliament, local authority funding for treatment will have grown by 40 per cent compared to 2020'. READ MORE: Why are so many women under 40 being struck by breast cancer A California woman diagnosed with breast cancer in her thirties has revealed her symptoms were initially dismissed as a possible side effect from stopping her birth control. Sarah Citron, 33, had her intrauterine device (IUD), a type of birth control in the form of a tiny device inserted into the uterus, removed last November when she and her husband decided to try for a second child. Soon after, she noticed a lump in her armpit. Mrs Citron, co-founder of Bricoleur Vineyards in Sonoma, had always been prone to harmless cysts in her breasts, to the point where she had her first mammogram at 18, but this was the first time she felt a lump elsewhere. Doctors assured her it was just a hormonal change from removing the IUD, insisting she was too young to worry about cancer, as the average age women are diagnosed with breast cancer is 62 years old. She had also just received her Covid booster, which she thought could have caused inflamed lymph nodes - clusters of immune cells throughout the body that protect against infection and disease. 'I was just telling myself, "It's probably my IUD, and now the Covid vaccine. I'll just monitor it, and when it goes away, it won't be a problem,"' Mrs Citron told DailyMail.com. 'But it didn't just go away.' Sarah Citron, 33, was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year after noticing a lump in her armpit. Doctors originally blamed the lump on hormonal changes from having her IUD removed to try for another child The above graph shows the case rates (blue and green dots) of breast cancer among women per 100,000 people compared to the death rate (red squares). As death rates have plunged, case rates are still rising. The blue and green dots are from two different databases tracking breast cancer rates over different time periods When she asked for a mammogram, her doctor insisted on performing a general exam, in which the doctor users their hands to feel for breast lumps, reassuring Mrs Citron she would be fine due to her age. After continued insistence, however, the doctor finally agreed to a mammogram to get images of Mrs Citron's breasts. The mammogram revealed a mass, which prompted doctors to take a biopsy and test for cancer. The biopsy revealed the lump was cancerous and, at age 32, Mrs Citron was diagnosed with breast cancer, and doctors told her it had spread to her lymph nodes. They estimated it was stage 2, but they won't know for sure until she has surgery later this year. 'I wasn't concerned in any way because no doctor was concerned for me,' she said. It was a big shock, obviously, for me and my family, and just as a 32-year-old young mother, not expecting to get diagnosed with breast cancer, let alone having to go through chemotherapy and surgery and radiation.' Though she was able to promptly start treatment after her diagnosis, Mrs Citron was frustrated it took so long for doctors to listen to her. After noticing the lump, it took four months to get an appointment, followed by several weeks until further tests were ordered. 'I think the most frustrating part is that, as someone who is young, the conversation is always, "It's probably nothing. You're young,"' she said. 'It shouldn't take having to get diagnosed with something for doctors to accept you as a patient, especially if you feel like something's not right. 'All women should be able to advocate for their bodies. And if they feel like something's not right, they should be able to get that help and information regardless of age.' Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in both the US and the world. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) estimates there will be more than 300,000 new cases this year, along with 43,700 deaths. Death rates have plummeted 43 percent between 1989 and 2020, after successful public health awareness campaigns, better screening and new drugs. Nine in 10 patients are expected to survive after five years. Mrs Citron, who co-owns Bricoleur Vineyards in Sonoma, California, has been placed into medically induced menopause for the next 10 years, making it significantly more difficult to try for a sibling for her two-and-a-half-year-old daughter, Isla Rose The above graph shows the changes in breast cancer screenings (black line) since 2017 by month. It also shows a predicted screening rate (yellow dotted line) and the Covid infection rate (blue line) in the US over the same period. Screenings were initially steady but dropped in the first year of the pandemic by as much as 14 percent However, the number of new breast cancer cases is rising roughly two percent every year, John Wong, an internist and professor of medicine at Tufts University School of Medicine, told the Washington Post. 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 die of breast cancer compared to nearby Cullman County where the 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.' According to the Mayo Clinic, signs of breast cancer include a lump that feels different from surrounding tissue, a change in the shape or appearance of the breast, inverted nipple, peeling or flaking of pigmented skin around the nipple, and redness or pitting around the skin of the breast. In May, a leading health panel recommended the age at which women are regularly screened for breast cancer with a mammogram be cut from 50 to 40. The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) said an extra 20 million women in their forties would benefit from a mammogram every two years. The change would save 20 percent more lives, according to the USPSTF, which has drafted the proposal in response to rising rates among middle-aged women. Currently, all women aged 50 to 74 are advised to get checked via a mammogram - a low-energy X-ray of their breasts - every two years. However, research suggests breast cancer screenings have declined 14 percent due to the Covid pandemic, making it more difficult to detect and diagnose the disease before it spreads. A report published this week in the journal Cancer, for example, found that there were declines in the number of newly diagnosed cancers due to Covid lockdowns and people being afraid to go to the doctor. Mrs Citron's winery is now donating $5 of every bottle of Isla Rose Brut Rose, named after her daughter, to cancer research 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 In May, Mrs Citron was enrolled in a clinical trial called I-SPY 2, which targets hormones that some forms of breast cancer feed off of. To eliminate her hormones, the doctors put her into medically induced menopause for a minimum of 10 years. This involves an injection in her ovaries each month and includes all of the common menopause symptoms, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness, night sweats, changes in libido, mood changes, and infertility. 'Essentially, I have zero hormones in my body.' She also takes a chemotherapy pill that targets the remaining hormones the cancer feeds off of to try to starve it. In three months, the cancer shrunk 42 percent. However, since it has spread to her lymph nodes, she still has to complete 20 weeks of infusion chemotherapy. After the chemo, she will undergo a double mastectomy, in which both breasts are removed, with reconstruction, followed by radiation. Even if this gets rid of the cancer, she will remain in menopause for the next decade, making it significantly more difficult to have another child. If she wants to get pregnant, she will have to reverse the menopause, but having hormones in the body increases the risk of relapse. Mrs Citron believes this is one of the effects of having breast cancer young that many patients don't realize. 'If I want kids, I need to decide if I put myself at risk and carry a child myself. Getting pregnant naturally would be very difficult. 'I'm sad that it has been taken away from me, in a sense. I'm sad that my daughter's two and a half years old [and] we want to give her a sibling. Right now, obviously, I can't even fathom having a newborn with a two-and-a-half-year-old and going through cancer.' 'It's sad because I don't know what my future looks like in that I've always imagined having more than one child, and it's just all cards are off the table right now for my husband and I to even talk about what that looks like.' The average age of breast cancer diagnosis is 62, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS), a point in which women are done having children and have likely already gone through menopause. 'You're at a completely different stage in your life when you're diagnosed with breast cancer in your thirties. A lot of things are taken away from you,' Mrs Citron said. 'It's all very sad.' In addition to the treatment, Mrs Citron undergoes cold capping, which involves wearing headwear that reduces hair loss by freezing hair follicles. The cap is connected to a machine that circulates temperatures just above freezing. Patients wear the cap during entire chemotherapy sessions, which last several hours. However, it isn't covered by insurance, running Mrs Citron about $600 per session. 'Cold capping is a very painful process, but as a young mother, I am doing it for my daughter. I want her to not know I'm going through this, and I don't want her to have Mommy come home with no hair one day, so I'm trying to hold on to some sense of normalcy for her as long as I can,' she said. Mrs Citron tested negative for all genes that could increase the chance of developing cancer, meaning her daughter, Isla Rose, will not have a greater chance of developing the condition in the future. However, she wants to teach her daughter how to know her own body. 'I want her to know even though she doesn't have a genetic mutation that she needs to worry about, that she needs to know her body and that she needs to advocate for herself,' Mrs Citron said. 'I think it's something that everyone should push to their kids to just know if they're not feeling well and know if something feels wrong, only you can push yourself to get the help that you need.' Mrs Citron's winery, which she co-owns with her father, Mark Hanson, is now donating $5 of every bottle of their Isla Rose Brut Rose, named for her daughter, to the V Foundation for cancer research as part of its Sip With Purpose campaign. For each case of wine sold, the winery will match the cost and donate it to the charity. A young father died from a brain tumour that doctors incorrectly diagnosed as appendicitis, his heartbroken family have claimed. Joshua Warner, 25, from south east London, went to hospital in June after suffering from headaches and being sick for a fortnight. Medics gave the carpenter a CT scan and ruled that he had appendicitis, before he underwent surgery to remove the organ. When he still felt unwell, further tests revealed an anomaly on his brain. But this was dismissed as a computer error, it is alleged. It was only weeks later when he collapsed and was rushed to hospital that his brain tumour was confirmed. He died 12 days later. Mr Warner's family, who described him as 'kind-hearted' and an 'amazing dad', said they are sharing his story in the hopes that others won't suffer the same experience. Joshua Warner and his son Andrew, from Crayford in south east London Medics gave him a CT scan and told the 25-year-old he had an appendicitis and he underwent surgery to remove the organ Mr Warner went to Darent Valley Hospital in late June where he underwent surgery for an appendicitis a painful swelling of the appendix. But a few hours after arriving home, he was re-admitted to the hospital as he still felt sick. His mother, Eve Pateman, from Bexleyheath, said when he saw the medical team the following day they told him there was 'nothing wrong' with his appendix. Another scan revealed an anomaly on his brain. But doctors said this was a computer error and discharged him, his family say. Back-and-forth trips to Darent Valley Hospital's A&E continued and Mr Warner was repeatedly turned away. What is midline glioma? Midline glioma grow in the midline between the two halves of the brain. It is a grade 4 tumour meaning it is cancerous and often comes back after treatment. It is fast-growing, likely to spread and difficult to remove via surgery. Headaches, nausea and fatigue are among the key symptoms, along with problems with walking, coordination and balance and weakness in the arms and legs. Radiotherapy is the current standard of treatment. Patients survive for eight to 11 months from diagnosis, on average. Advertisement But just weeks later, he collapsed in his grandparents' bathroom and was rushed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Woolwich for another CT scan. The results matched the previous scans and within 24 hours, Mr Warner was told he had a large brain tumour that had spread from the right side of his brain to the back and brainstem. He was moved to an oncology ward. On September 5, he had a biopsy and was diagnosed with a highly aggressive brain cancer, midline glioma. Grade 4 tumours cancerous ones that often come back after treatment are fast-growing, likely to spread and difficult to remove via surgery. Headaches, nausea and fatigue are among the key symptoms, along with problems with walking, coordination and balance and weakness in the arms and legs. Patients survive for eight to 11 months from diagnosis, on average. Mr Warner's family were told he had three months to live but he died just 12 days later at Greenwich and Bexley Community Hospice. His mother said: 'He wanted to share his story as he did not want anyone else to not be believed. He wanted to highlight the symptoms of a brain tumour.' She said: 'Josh was fun, he loved making people laugh. 'He was a prankster, and had a beautiful soul and a really kind heart and I think that was why most people fell in love with him. He touched people's hearts. 'He was an amazing dad, brother and a brilliant son. He was just a fantastic man. 'He was so very brave, I cannot quantify how brave he was through all of this. He never moaned. I think I would be feeling sorry for myself, but he never once did that.' When the self-employed carpenter still felt unwell, he underwent further tests which revealed an anomaly on his brain. However, this was dismissed as a computer error It was only weeks later when he collapsed and was rushed to hospital that his brain tumour was confirmed. He died 12 days later His family (father David Warner and mother Eve Pateman, pictured) say Mr Warner was an 'amazing dad' and 'fantastic man', said they are sharing his story in the hopes that others won't suffer the same experience Ms Pateman added: 'He did not want another person to go through what he went through. We quickly began working with Brain Tumour research. He just wanted to give even during his hardest time.' The medical examiner told Ms Pateman a report is being sent to the coroner's office. Ms Pateman said: 'There is no question about the cause of his death, but it is because of his treatment and to see if there were any missed opportunities.' A fundraising page raised nearly 20,000 to pay for treatment for Mr Warner but will now be put into a fund for his four-year-old son Andrew. Ms Pateman said: 'We have been massively supported by the community and our family. People have been unbelievably generous. I have just been overwhelmed by the generosity of businesses and people. 'It was Joshua's wish for the money raised to go into a trust fund for his son. It is a really beautiful legacy he has been able to leave him. 'He loved his son so very much and it is heart breaking to see Andrew asking where his dad is.' When he was diagnosed his family felt let down by Darent Valley Hospital and were in the process of filing a complaint about his care. A spokesman for the Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust told MailOnline: 'We are deeply saddened to learn of Mr Warner's tragic death and offer his family our sincere condolences for their loss. 'After becoming aware of Mr Warner's experience at Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust, we have taken immediate steps to understand what happened in order to address these concerns. We are committed to providing high-quality care for all our patients and to learn from incidents such as these.' If dating often feels like an unsolvable puzzle, you're not alone. But now one neurologist has revealed a key trick that could help you make a lasting connection with a potential lover and it's simple. Look into their left eye. Dr Tara Swart, a senior lecturer in behavioural sciences at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, used an example of someone cradling their baby to explain her logic. Speaking on The Diary of a CEO podcast, she told host Steven Bartlett: 'Most people are right handed so they'll be holding their baby in their left arm, so they can use their dominant hand to do stuff. Dr Tara Swart (pictured), a senior lecturer in behavioural sciences at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, used an example of someone cradling their baby to explain why looking into someone's left eye could help you make a lasting connection Speaking on The Diary of a CEO podcast, she told host Steven Bartlett (pictured): 'Most people are right handed so they'll be holding their baby in their left arm, so they can use their dominant hand to do stuff 'That means when you gaze at your baby, your right eye is looking at their left and then that interaction from the optic nerve is going around the brain. 'It's impacting the amygdala, where emotions come from. 'It's creating this emotional resonance loop that's part of how the mother and baby bond.' Dr Swart, who is also an author, added: 'So that right eye to left eye contact is the most bonding eye contact you can have with someone. 'If I'm trying to build a bond with someone that's the statistically most likely one to create good resonance between you. 'Now you could say, oh, but my mum was left-handed or you could be left-handed. 'But, if I'm taking a chance on trying to build that bond with someone, that's the statistically most likely one to create good resonance between you.' Responding to her explanation, podcast host Steven Bartlett labelled it 'super interesting', adding 'so to everybody listening to this right now, whether they're in work, they're in sales, they're looking for a partner, it's a nice little trick to look into someone's left eye'. Asked if Dr Swart had walked into the studio and started looking into his left eye, she then said: 'I waited till we sat down. 'I gave you a hug, you gave me a hug. 'We've laughed about a few things before we've come on air. 'Those are the sorts of things that create higher levels of the bonding hormone oxytocin, so you're more likely to lower your guard, trust the person, take a healthy risk.' Often dubbed the 'love hormone', oxytocin helps regulate emotional responses and produced in the hypothalamus part of the brain and secreted into the bloodstream by the pituitary gland. Studies have also shown oxytocin also may have anxiolytic properties, meaning it may help reduce anxiety. Other tips to create stronger emotional bonds include 'appropriate physical interaction', such as handshakes, kisses or hugs, Dr Swart noted. 'Depending on the appropriateness of it, a minimum handshake, maybe a hug, maybe a kiss on the cheek, depending on what situation you're in,' she said. 'The more of that physical touch that you can get the better.' The MHRA has issued the advice on prescribing fluoroquinolone antibiotics Britons taking commonly-prescribed antibiotics should be reminded about the risk of getting suicidal thoughts, health chiefs have said. The move follows the death of a newly-retired doctor, who took his life just a week after starting on ciprofloxacin. Respected cardiologist Robert Stevenson, 63, had no history of either depression or mental health problems beforehand. Ciprofloxacin is one of five antibiotics officials have raised the alarm over, sparked by a coroner's report into Mr Stevenson's death. All fall within the fluoroquinolone family. Five types of fluoroquinolone antibiotics could raise the risk of patients experiencing thoughts about self-harm and suicide after taking the drug, the UK's medicines watchdog said Warnings of potential 'psychiatric reactions' are found in leaflets inside drug boxes already. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said healthcare professionals 'are reminded to advise patients to be alert to these risks'. Patients should also be advised to read the patient information leaflets and asked to seek medical advice if they suffer similar symptoms, according to the body. Usage should be stopped at the 'first signs' of a serious adverse reaction. The MHRA said: 'When prescribing a fluoroquinolone, advise patients to be alert to any mood changes, distressing thoughts, or feelings about suicide or harming themselves at any point during treatment.' In advice given by the watchdog to medics, it also said they should tell Britons to alert their loved ones about their prescription. Does the antibiotic ciprofloxacin cause depression? Ciprofloxacin is a powerful antibiotic designed to fight off serious infections. They belong to class of drugs called fluoroquinolone antibiotics, with other examples being levofloxacin, moxifloxacin and ofloxacin. Like any medication it can cause side effects which vary in severity and frequency. One of the most serious is an alteration of mood and mental state which can include severe tiredness, depression, anxiety, or memory problems. Information provided with ciprofloxacin warns of this 'very rare' risk and that it can even lead to thoughts of suicide. The NHS estimates these side effects occur in less than one in 100 people who take them. Patients who experience such side effects are urged to contact their doctor or call 111 immediately so their doctor can potentially prescribe an alternative antibiotic. Advertisement Patients themselves 'may not notice' changes in mood and behaviour 'so it is very important to tell your friends and family you are taking these medicines'. 'Others may notice changes and help you quickly identify any symptoms that you need to talk to your doctor about,' the MHRA said. Depression and psychosis patients may see their symptoms become worse under treatment, the agency added. As well as ciprofloxacin, the other antibiotics named are delafloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, ofloxacin. They are designed to fight off serious bacterial infections. Almost 500,000 fluoroquinolone prescriptions were dispensed by GPs and other practitioners in England alone in 2022, according to latest NHS data. Mr Stevenson hadn't been told about a 'potential rare link' to suicidal behaviour in patients who took the drug as this wasn't in line with medical guidance, a hearing heard earlier this year. The Prevention of Future Deaths Report, which was published in June and sent to the MHRA, said the consultant cardiologist and general physician at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary, West Yorks, had retired in May 2022. At that time, he had been referred to a urology department for the investigation of possible prostate cancer, with a private consultant urologist. To help with the inflammation of his prostate gland and to get him ready for an investigative biopsy, he was prescribed ciprofloxacin. But just over a week later, Dr Stevenson left his home for his 'usual walk'. According to the report, 'he had not previously given any indications to his family for them to be concerned for him'. That afternoon, however, his wife received a Facebook message from him saying he had left a note under the pillow of his bed. Dr Stevenson was later found dead in a nearby wood. In the report, coroner Martin Fleming said while it was unclear if he was suffering from this side effect, it remained possible. 'I heard evidence to suggest that the prescribing doctor did not reference this side effect at the time of issuing the prescription to Mr Stevenson, since it was not in accord with current advice,' Mr Fleming wrote. 'I also heard evidence to suggest that prescribing doctors may not be fully aware of this rare side effect, and that patient's suffering from depression may be more vulnerable to it.' All Britons are urged to report any medicines side effects they notice to the MHRA's Yellow Card Scheme. The watchdog claimed it was not possible, from the available data, to indicate the period of risk or how frequently these potential adverse reactions occur. It's thought that because fluoroquinolones act on the mitochondria - powerhouses in cells responsible for releasing energy - effects can be felt all over the body. Health chiefs say it is vital that uptake is at least 95 per cent to prevent outbreaks Four in ten children in parts of England haven't had both MMR jabs by the time they turn five, official statistics showed today. Just 56.3 per cent of youngsters that age in Hackney, east London, were fully-protected against measles, mumps and rubella in 2022/23. Health chiefs say it is vital uptake is at least 95 per cent to prevent outbreaks of the highly infectious conditions, which spread easily between the unvaccinated. Nationally, the figure has fallen to 84.5 per cent the lowest in more than a decade. Uptake rates were below the target for all 14 vital jabs offered in childhood. Experts today blamed the rise in anti-vaxx sentiment during the Covid pandemic, which has left tens of thousands of children vulnerable to illnesses that can be life-threatening. Health officials warned the downturn is a 'serious concern' and urged parents to check whether their child was up to date with all their jabs. Your browser does not support iframes. In England, 89.3 per cent of two-year-olds received their first dose of the MMR vaccine in the year to March 2023 (blue line), up from 89.2 per cent the previous year. Meanwhile, 88.7 per cent of two-year-olds had both doses, down from 89 per cent a year earlier The MMR jab is first offered to children aged one, with the second dose given soon after they turn three. Two doses offer up to 99 per cent protection against the conditions, which can lead to meningitis, hearing loss and problems during pregnancy. NHS Digital data released today shows London is one of the least vaccinated parts of the country taking 17 of the top 20 spots for low MMR jab uptake. After Hackney came Camden (63.6 per cent), Enfield (64.8 per cent), Haringey (65.9 per cent) and Islington (66.3 per cent). Outside of London, the lowest uptake rates for both doses among five year olds were logged in Liverpool (73.6 per cent), Manchester (74.5 per cent) and Birmingham (75.1 per cent). WHAT JABS SHOULD I HAVE HAD BY AGE 18? Vaccinations for various unpleasant and deadly diseases are given free on the NHS to children and teenagers. Here is a list of all the jabs someone should have by the age of 18 to make sure they and others across the country are protected: Eight weeks old 6-in-1 vaccine for diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), and hepatitis B. Pneumococcal (PCV) Rotavirus Meningitis B 12 weeks old Second doses of 6-in-1 and Rotavirus 16 weeks old Third dose of 6-in-1 Second doses of PCV and men. B One year old Hib/meningitis C Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) Third dose of PCV and meningitis B Two to eight years old Annual children's flu vaccine Three years, four months old Second dose of MMR 4-in-1 pre-school booster for diphtheria, tetanus, polio and whooping cough 12-13 years old (girls) HPV (two doses within a year) 14 years old 3-in-1 teenage booster for diphtheria, tetanus and polio MenACWY Source: NHS Choices Advertisement Worries about low uptake in the capital saw councils send letters to parents in recent months warning unvaccinated children may be excluded from school for three weeks in the event of an outbreak in their classroom. This advice was first issued by UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) chiefs in 2019 but councils have flagged it to parents amid a spike in measles cases. Measles can infect nine in ten unjabbed children in a classroom if just one classmate is infectious. NHS data today showed that uptake also slumped for other jabs. Overall, 12 of the 14 childhood vaccinations saw rates decline. The first and booster doses of the four-in-one vaccine, also known as DTaP/IPV, dropped to 93.2 per cent and 83.3 per cent among five-year-olds the lowest figures since records began in 2009-10. The jab protects against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough) and polio. Uptake of the Hib/MenC booster hit 90.4 per cent among the same age group and 88.7 per cent among two-year-olds, marking the smallest number in more than a decade. The single jab is given to one-year-old babies to reduce the risk from haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and meningitis C serious and potentially fatal infections. In another record low, just 92.6 per cent of two-year-olds had their six-in-one jab, also known as DTaP/IPV/Hib/HepB. It reduces the chance of becoming seriously ill from diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, Hib and hepatitis B. The World Health Organization recommends that, nationally, at least 95 per cent of children have jabs for diseases that can be stopped by vaccines, in order to prevent outbreaks. Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, consultant medical epidemiologist at UK Health Security Agency, said the downward trend is a 'serious concern'. 'The diseases that these vaccines protect against, such as measles, polio and meningitis, can be life-changing and even deadly. 'No parent wants this for their child especially when these diseases are easily preventable. 'Please don't put this off, check now that your children are fully up to date with all their vaccines due. Check your child's red book and get in touch with your GP surgery if you are not sure.' Professor Jonathan Ball, a virologist at the University of Nottingham, told MailOnline: 'The decline in vaccination rates is very troubling, and the threat of disease outbreaks increases with every vaccine missed.' He added: 'We need to understand why rates aren't as high as we need, it might be anti-vaxx sentiment, but often these things are more complex. Once we know the reasons then hopefully we can bring about changes to reverse this trend.' NHS data for 2022/23 shows that 12 out of the 14 childhood vaccinations saw uptake decline Just 56.3 per cent of youngsters in Hackney, east London, were fully-protected against measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) in the year to March 2023 Dr Doug Brown, chief executive of the British Society for Immunology, warned that England is continuing to miss key targets for childhood vaccination uptake and the low uptake of both MMR jabs among five-year-olds is 'particularly worrying'. He said: 'Measles is one of the world's most contagious diseases and cases are currently on the rise in England. 'We must ensure that vaccination rates improve to stop the spread and give our communities the best possible protection available against this serious illness.' How do the MMR vaccines work? The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective combined vaccine. It protects against three illnesses: measles, mumps and rubella. The highly infectious conditions can easily spread between unvaccinated people. The conditions can lead to serious problems including meningitis, hearing loss and problems during pregnancy. Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide the best protection against measles, mumps and rubella. The NHS advises anyone who has not had two doses of the MMR vaccine to ask their GP for a vaccination appointment. Two doses of the jab protects around 99 per cent of people against measles and rubella, while around 88 per cent of people are protected against mumps. Source: NHS Advertisement Low uptake is putting communities 'at higher risk of infection and illness', increasing the risk of harmful diseases spreading and infecting the unjabbed, Dr Brown said. Some vulnerable people are unable to have vaccinations such as young babies, people with compromised immune systems and cancer patients, he noted. He called for a vaccine strategy to act as a springboard to 'strengthen the roles of local immunisation co-ordinators, ensure services are accessible, widen community outreach and increase both investment in public health campaigns as well as engagement with parents to answer their questions on vaccines'. Steve Russell, NHS director of vaccinations and screening, said: 'The NHS continues to encourage and support parents and carers to ensure their children are up to date with their vaccinations to protect them against becoming seriously unwell from infectious diseases. 'While most children are up to date with their vaccinations, there is more to do, and the NHS is running an MMR catch-up campaign to support more families in coming forward, with targeted outreach work for those identified as at high risk and communities with the lowest uptake. 'Diseases such as measles, mumps and rubella can make children seriously ill, but they are preventable, and millions of vaccination doses are given every year to offer the best protection so please check your child is up to date with their vaccines and contact your GP surgery to catch up with any missed doses as soon as possible.' A DHSC spokesperson said: 'It is vital that routine childhood vaccinations are up to date as this remains one of our best defences for public health. 'The UK has a world-leading offer and we have run multiple catch-up campaigns to improve coverage including a national catch-up campaign for MMR and London-specific campaigns for MMR and polio. 'We urge parents and carers to check that their children are up to date on their vaccines and if not they should book an appointment to catch up.' The Biden administration has dedicated more than $230 million in grants to bolster suicide prevention efforts amid an unprecedented mental health crisis in the US. Suicide is among the leading causes of preventable death in America, particularly for children and teens, who make up 15 percent of all US suicides. The grant money will go to improving the capacity for the suicide prevention hotline that transitioned from a longer, harder to remember phone number to the three-digit 988 number last year to make it easier for people in crisis to remember it. The money will also improve access to mental health treatments for marginalized groups, including American Indians living on tribal lands. Rates of mental illness in the US were on a steady uptick through 2018 before dipping slightly right before the Covid pandemic. By 2021, during the height of the pandemic, which saw millions of people isolated from activities and treatments for their conditions, the suicide rate began to climb once again, showing no signs of dropping off. After dipping slightly in the year preceding the global pandemic, suicides rebounded in 2021. The total increased five percent that year. While women are less likely than men to carry out suicide, they saw a more drastic increase in a single year. Suicide stats show that women are roughly three times more likely to attempt suicide, though men are two to four times more likely to die by suicide Suicide was responsible for 48,183 deaths in 2021, about 132 everyday. In 2022, that total hit 49,449, amounting to more than 135 deaths daily. Andrea Palm, the deputy secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, said: Our country is facing an unprecedented behavioral health crisis impacting people of all ages. We have invested in 988, community- and school-based care, expanding our health workforce, and other critical supports. We will continue as long as needed. The federal suicide hotline transitioned last year from its previous phone number 1-800-273-TALK - to 988. It was set up to connect callers in crisis directly with responders within the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Network. The idea was to make suicide prevention resources as easy to reach as a 911 call operator. The program received five million crisis calls in its first year, two million more than the average received under the previous phone number. From the grant allocation, more than $177 million will go toward bolstering mental healthcare staff to answer calls from local crisis centers and leveraging new technology to improve the ability to respond to local callers across the country. Another $18.3 million will specifically lend more resources to American Indian and Alaska Native groups, who have the highest suicide rates of all demographics in the US. Suicide rates among American Indians and Alaska Natives spiked nearly 20 percent from 2015 to 2020, according to CDC data. Five million dollars will give crisis centers the capacity to follow up with people in crisis whom they had connected with to see if they could provide additional assistance. The funding is also intended to help reduce the number of times police get involved with crisis calls in an effort to reduce the stigma that mentally ill people are a safety threat. Instead, the response will hopefully be from certified mental healthcare providers. Mental Health America, an organization that advocates for improved access to mental healthcare, said: 'A law enforcement response to a mental health crisis is almost always stigmatizing for people with mental illnesses and should be avoided when possible. Whenever possible, mental health crises should be treated using medical personnel or, even better, specialized mental health personnel.' Most law enforcement lacks proper training in crisis stabilization and their involvement can lead to imprisonment or even death. In 2021, at least 109 people were killed by police responding to reports of someone 'behaving erratically' or having a mental health crisis. Dr Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon, HHS assistant secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use said: We want everyone to know that there is hope, and there is help. Many people who have attempted suicide or experienced suicidal ideation are thriving in recovery and leading fulfilling lives because they got help. The countrys chronic mental health crisis has hit children particularly hard. Rates of suicidal thoughts, depression and anxiety, and feelings of persistent hopelessness were on the rise even before the Covid pandemic. Suicide was already the second leading cause of death among people aged 10 to 14 and the third leading cause of death among those aged 15 to 24. In 2021, an estimated 12.3 million American adults seriously thought about suicide, 3.5 million planned a suicide attempt, and 1.7 million attempted suicide, according to the CDC Children and young adults were the only age group spared from the increases in suicides over the one year period. That age group accounts for 15 percent of suicides overall A year spent in isolation in a bid to stem the rise of Covid in the US contributed to feelings of hopelessness and depression in young people. The 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance Survey of 17,232 children across 45 states conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported more than a fifth of high school students seriously considered suicide, up 18 percent from 2019. The nations overall suicide rate had been steadily creeping up since 2005 before dipping slightly between 2018 and 2020. But by mid-2020, the year the world was pummeled by a devastating pandemic and the subsequent social isolation, that downward trend reversed and rates began rising again. Suicides in 2022 outpaced every previous years' going back to 2018. The only group that was spared the overall rise in suicides was 10 to 24-year-olds. The mental health crisis is not unique to the US, though. Half of the worlds population could have at least one mental health disorder by the time they reach old age, a stark increase from the 2019 estimate of one in every eight. Researchers behind the large-scale analysis published in Lancet Psychiatry arrived at their prediction after compiling data from face-to-face interviews with 156,331 people around the world from 2001 to 2022 as part of the World Health Organizations Mental Health Survey consisting of data from 29 countries. The overall risk of developing a mental illness during ones lifetime was 46 percent for male participants and a slightly increased 53 percent for females. Women were considerably more likely than men to report having some variety of a diagnosed anxiety disorder in their lifetimes, at nearly 19 percent versus 11 percent. At the same time, the most common mental health issue among men was risky alcohol use and abuse (classified separately from alcohol dependence) with 14 percent reporting, followed by major depressive disorder, with 7.5 percent of men reporting that diagnosis. On 10 July 2014, the headline of a report of the opening speech by the prosecution in proceedings for sexual offences against John Brown, the brother of politician and recording artist Dana Rosemary Scallon, may have suggested that the accused was guilty of the charges and Dana knew of his offences. In fact, we are happy to make clear that this allegation was found to be false. Mr Brown was unanimously acquitted by a jury, and we apologise to Dana and her family for any contrary impression given. To report an inaccuracy, please email corrections@mailonline.co.uk. To make a formal complaint under IPSO rules please go to www.mailonline.co.uk/readerseditor where you will find an easy-to-use complaints form. You can also write to Readers' Editor, MailOnline, 9 Derry Street, London W8 5HY or contact IPSO directly at ipso.co.uk In November 2022, I booked flights from Manchester to Dublin for nine people, to celebrate my brother's stag party. The trip was planned for July this year, but sadly my brother died suddenly in April. I emailed the airline, Ryanair, in May and attached a copy of the death certificate. I received an email saying I was to receive a full refund, which would amount to 838, within five to seven working days, back on to the HSBC card on which I paid. That never happened. Ryanair claims it has sent the money, but HSBC has no record of it. I have sent around 10 emails to Ryanair, made 10 phone calls and raised a number of complaints through the Ryanair app. Bereavement: This reader sadly lost his brother before he was due to get married. He later tried to get the money back for flights booked for the stag party - but was unable to I have received no help or support and have been passed around the call centre to various people who have no intention of helping me, or allowing me to speak to anyone in authority. I have been asked to do all sorts of ridiculous things that I don't even understand such as attaching a picture of my Ryanair 'wallet' to a live chat, and also attached pictures of my bank statements which I am not really comfortable with. I have seven other people waiting on their refund. We all feel it is a matter of principle and Ryanair should honour its promise. A.S, Manchester Helen Crane of This is Money replies: I am very sorry for your loss. Having to cancel what should have been a fun celebration in such tragic circumstances must have been awful, and I was upset to hear that you haven't been treated with the compassion you deserve. You first went to Ryanair in May this year to ask for a cancellation of the flights and your money back, attaching your brother's death certificate as proof of your claim. In June, you got an email saying that the 838 had been refunded back to the card you paid on. But you checked with your bank, HSBC, and it said the money wasn't there. When Ryanair insisted that it was, and asked to see your bank account, you contacted me. CRANE ON THE CASE Our weekly column sees This is Money consumer expert Helen Crane tackle reader problems and shine the light on companies doing both good and bad. Want her to investigate a problem, or do you want to praise a firm for going that extra mile? Get in touch: helen.crane@thisismoney.co.uk On further inspection, I saw that your email from Ryanair included a generic section at the bottom which said that, if you had booked with a third-party travel agent, you needed to go to them for the refund. I can completely understand how you might have missed or misunderstood this, given everything else you were dealing with. You then told me you booked your flights on the Go to Gate website, part of Booking.com, and I explained that this meant the money had been paid back to them. Of course, someone at Ryanair could have taken the time to work this out and explain it to you personally, rather than wasting your time asking you to attach things to live chats. This refund rule often catches out customers, as they presume the responsibility for their refund still lies with the airline they travelled on - but in fact it does not. If a customer pays Booking for their flights, and then Booking pays Ryanair, any refund will ordinarily have to go back through that same process. I have previously advised readers against using third-party booking sites if there isn't a material difference in the price, as going direct can make it easier to get your cash back if something goes wrong. While Ryanair wasn't ultimately responsible for paying you your refund, I do think the situation could have been explained to you much better. Waiting game: A.S kept checking his online bank to see if the refund had arrived, after Ryanair insisted that it had been paid - but it turned out to have gone to Booking.com instead A Ryanair spokesperson said: 'This passenger requested a refund for this flight [...] on 13 May and Ryanair processed the refund in full (837.56) to the card on the booking on 23 May. 'Unfortunately, this passenger booked this flight through an unauthorised OTA [online travel agent] who Ryanair has no commercial agreement with and who provided Ryanair with incorrect payment details for this passenger. 'As a result, despite Ryanair issuing this passenger's refund correctly, it did not go directly to the passenger (as their card was not used on the booking), but to the OTA. 'This is a prime example of the issues faced when customers book using OTAs and not directly with the airline. To avoid these implications, Ryanair urges customers to always book their flights directly.' Once you found out Booking held the keys to your cash, I'm afraid to say it wasn't much more helpful. You told me you called them three times over two weeks and were simply told the request was still being processed. In July, you were told that the refund had been paid back to your card - but again, that wasn't true. Booking's customer service staff told you it had only received the money back from Ryanair in July, while Ryanair said the transfer had happened in May. I'm not surprised that you couldn't make head nor tail of it. I also approached Booking to explain your sad situation, and ask it to pay the money back as quickly as possible. Thankfully, I managed to get a clearer answer - though not the one you wanted. It told me that while you had been waiting for your refund, you had also started a chargeback with your bank. Companies usually don't want to refund people who have started a chargeback, because they could end up having to pay the money twice - if they pay your refund out of pocket, and then the chargeback is also later approved. A spokesman said: 'We are sorry for the delay that this customer has encountered in obtaining a refund under what we appreciate are extremely difficult circumstances. 'Upon investigation, we can see that the refund was received from the airline on July 14 and not on May 23, but because the customer had raised a chargeback request via his bank, this has unfortunately further delayed the process as we're unable to process the transaction while this is ongoing. 'We apologise for the inconvenience that this has caused and would advise the customer to contact his bank for an update on the situation.' Banking on it: In the end it was a chargeback initiated through the reader's bank, HSBC, which got the 838 back for A.S and his friends It told me that if you cancelled your chargeback, it could pay you the money. But you told me didn't want to do that. You felt you had been messed around enough by these companies, and weren't confident that the refund would actually materialise. You said you would prefer to wait and see if HSBC came through, and I completely understood your point of view. Your instincts may have been right, as in the end it was the chargeback that eventually bore fruit a couple of weeks later. You got the 838 back in full. However, you told me you wanted me to 'name and shame' Ryanair and Booking for not helping you in your hour of need. I do think you have a point here. Booking seems to be blaming you for starting the chargeback - but if you had been paid back promptly you would never have needed to. I don't know who is right about when the refund was paid from Ryanair to Booking - in May or July. What I do know is that, as soon as they saw the nature of your request, both firms should have pulled the correct strings to get you your money back, instead of messing you around and blaming you for using a third-party booking agent, or starting a chargeback. Or of course, one of them could have thrown out the usual rules and paid you back as a gesture of goodwill, given your exceptional and sad circumstances. In my opinion, 838 is not a large amount of money if it means easing the burden on a recently bereaved customer. PWC'S scandal-hit Australian division adopted a 'whatever it takes' approach to making money, according to an independent review following a tax leaks scandal. The report by former telecoms boss Ziggy Switkowski found that an 'overly collegial' culture meant staff were reluctant to call out misbehaviour, especially by top performing 'rainmakers'. Poor practices went 'uncorrected for many years' while the chief executive was 'not perceived to be accountable to the board'. Earlier this year leaked emails revealed that it had used information about tax policy changes, obtained in confidence from the Australian government, to win business from corporate clients. The scandal has already forced out 12 partners including PwC Australia chief executive Tom Seymour. New boss Kevin Burrowes said yesterday: 'We deeply regret and apologise for our failures.' Its a funny old world when the boss of one of the countrys biggest trade unions backs a Tory government on its controversial decision to develop more oil and gas fields in direct contradiction to Labour policy. Yet thats exactly the case with Gary Smith, leader of the GMB, the UKs third-largest trade union. Within hours of the North Sea Transition Authority giving its green light for Equinor and Ithaca Energy to develop the vast Rosebank oil field, Smith had given his thumbs-up. And it was an effusive welcome, with Smith saying Rosebank is precisely what the country needs to secure domestic supplies, helping to provide enough energy to see us through the next few decades. GMB general secretary Gary Smith (pictured) backed the government's plan to develop more oil and gas fields More pertinently, he added that developing this project is a better strategy than doubling down on our dependence on imported gas, especially in an increasingly volatile world. And a far better plan than having a ban. Sensible words from a sensible man. If you didnt know better, the outspoken Smith was obviously having another pop at blowing up Keir Starmers so-called energy policy which hinges on Labours ban on all new North Sea projects. Whether this was intentional or not, his comments should have Starmer squirming. Who knows? But Smith is in a powerful position to stoke up a proper debate; his union has more than 560,000 members who work across most industrial sectors from gas to retail. Its also one of Labours most generous donors, giving about 2m a year. As the former gas-service engineer has argued, Labours ban lacks intellectual rigour, is economically incoherent, will result in a lack of investment in the country, the loss of thousands of jobs particularly in Scotland and leave the UK at the mercy of volatile and often tyrannical exporters. Such a ban will hit the poorest the hardest, those who are suffering the most from higher energy bills and green levies, which Smith has described as a modern day poll-tax. Unless its blocked by the courts, developing Rosebank is a massive deal for the UK in securing future energy supplies. Its estimated the field will produce 69,000 barrels of oil per day, about 8pc of the countrys projected daily output between 2026 and 2030, although there will be sales on the open market. Located about 80 miles from the Shetlands, the field could also produce 44m cubic feet of gas every day. Its often forgotten that we will need more fossil fuels they already provide around 40pc of all energy needs during the transition period because they are needed for back-up. Even more interesting than Smiths backing for greater domestic energy security are his criticisms of the nuts and bolts of the renewables energy transition, which the Government and Labour should listen to. The first is Smiths challenge to the claim made by green cheerleaders that the move to cleaner energy will create thousands of home-made green jobs. Thats baloney, he says, and a betrayal. Most of the infrastructure the solar panels and the wind turbines are made in Indonesia, China and even the Middle East. And not in places that need jobs like Grimsby or Blackpool. His second criticism is that demonising the fossil fuel giants or over taxing them with even higher windfall taxes is daft. These are the companies with the deepest pockets and the ones most likely to develop the technologies for alternative sources such as hydrogen or floating wind platforms for future cleaner energy. Mr Sunak should be inviting Mr Smith to No 10 for tea: they have much to chat about. Chinas new lockdown Hui Ka Yan, chairman of Chinas giant debt-laden property group Evergrande, has disappeared. Bloomberg reports he was taken into custody earlier this month and placed under surveillance. So far he hasnt been charged but rumours swirl about potential irregularities. Several wealth management employees were arrested recently. Yans once grand empire is coming unstuck: Hengda Real Estate missed paying back principal and interest payments on its bonds this week and others are due soon. The next deadline is at the end of October when Evergrande with $300bn in liabilities faces a liquidation hearing in Hong Kong. Its unlikely the authorities will prop up the group so expect shivers throughout the markets when Evergrande finally unwinds. Aldi goes posh Aldis hunt for 500 new stores is already off to the races. And the supermarket is going up-market: top of its hit list are Kensington, Nottingham, Bath and Cambridge. We are all savvy discounters now. Londons office market is in a rental recession with empty space across the capitals traditional business districts at a 30-year-high, according to a report. Analysts at Jefferies estimated that office space in use across the City, West End and Canary Wharf has shrunk as much as 20pc. HSBC is quitting its long-term headquarters in Canary Wharf to relocate to the City, where it will lease 30pc less space, and Barclays has consolidated its office space in the east London business district. Analysts at Jefferies estimated that office space in use across the City, West End and Canary Wharf has shrunk as much as 20pc Meanwhile, Facebook owner Meta this week paid British Land 149m to break its lease at a major development near Regents Park. Property experts said demand for new, high-quality central London office space remains strong as companies try to lure workers back to the office. New developments in the West End and the City are performing well. But older buildings no longer attractive to staff who may prefer to work at home stand empty. Canary Wharf is struggling across the board as it is not seen as a desirable destination by employees. Bike racks, showers, terraces, cafes and break out spaces are among the must-haves for firms looking for new offices, as well as a location with bars, shops, restaurants, and quick transport links. David Earle, the head of Lambert Smith Hamptons London office, said demand for the most pleasant working environment possible is an attempt to attract people back into the office and to recruit and retain the best talent. James Carswell, a research analyst at Peel Hunt, said: Vacancy levels have definitely drifted upwards, but when you look at the grade A, best-in-class buildings, it is still very, very tight. The switch to prime office buildings is due to the fact that employees have the option to stay home but employers would like them to come in but dont want to force them, he said. Canary Wharf is a bit of a sterile environment, and not as easy for people to get to, Carswell added. Commercial landlords are shifting their strategy to cater to the trend. Land Securities yesterday hailed strong demand for best-in-class London offices and said its decision to dispose of 2.2bn of space, predominantly in the City, had been very timely. Its portfolio in Victoria not traditionally one of the capitals main business districts is 100pc let and rents at two new developments in the area are more than 10pc ahead of expectations. Victoria is an area attracting business, Earle said, along with Clerkenwell, Farringdon and London Bridge, due to accessibility and cheaper rents. Land Securities 400m refurbishment of Thirty High a Victoria tower block will include a roof terrace, events space, bike storage and showers. Oliver Knight, head of workplace at Land Securities, previously said: The office has to be more than simply a place to work... People are choosing to spend time in the office if it offers them something which cant be recreated at home. Meanwhile, British Land said Metas surrender of the office at 1 Triton Square would allow it to accelerate plans to create a life science campus at the central London location. The value of mergers and acquisition (M&A) deals made with UK involvement has fallen to a 14-year low in 2023, new findings show. M&A deals with any UK involvement have a total value of 144.7billion in the year to date, down 45 per cent on levels seen last year, according to LSEG Deals Intelligence. The value of dealmaking with UK involvement is at the lowest year-to-date total since 2009 amid the turmoil of the global financial crisis. Languishing: The value of M&A deals made with UK involvement has fallen to a 14-year low this year M&A involving a UK target has reached around 77billion so far this year, which is just over half the value recorded during the same period in 2022 following a 48 per cent decline in domestic M&A and a 49 per cent drop in inbound deals. The UK is the third most targeted country globally this year, after the US and China, with M&A involving UK targets accounting for 5 per cent of global M&A announced so far during 2023, according to the findings. Sixty-five percent of UK target M&A involved an overseas acquiror, with the remaining 35 per cent involving domestic buyers. LSEG Deals Intelligence said the 'mega-deal' tally is at a six-year low, while the value of private equity-backed deals is at a five-year low, despite a 'high deal count'. Lucille Jones, a senior Manager at LSEG Deals Intelligence, said: 'In these uncertain times, with recession looming, M&A involving UK companies has declined 45 per cent to the lowest level in fourteen years. 'We are seeing double-digit percentage declines for both the domestic and cross-border deal categories, and declines have been recorded across all sectors.' She added: 'One of the few positives to note from our Q3 data is that, while down 22 per cent from last year, the number of deal announcements is historically high, at a level only exceeded three times in the last fifteen years. 'A concerning outlook for the UK economy is curbing the enthusiasm for deal making in British boardrooms and were likely to continue to see a cautious approach to deal making in the coming months.' Over four thousand deals have been announced so far this year, down 22 per cent compared to last year, but the fourth highest deal count in the last fifteen years. After the value of deals announced during the first quarter of the year slumped to the lowest quarterly level since the final quarter of 2009, M&A activity increased by 60 per cent in the second quarter of 2023 before falling 13 per cent in the third quarter, LSEG Deals Intelligence, said. Some analysts were gearing up for London-listed companies to be picked off as buyers capitalised on cheap prices, but a wave of takeovers has not materialised. However, some bumper deals have been struck in the UK. The 5billion takeover offer for Dechra Pharmaceuticals by Swedish buyout group EQT represents the biggest deal involving the UK announced so far. London is closing in on New York as the world's leading financial centre while European rivals such as Frankfurt and Paris do not even make the top ten. The Big Apple was ranked the top global financial hub for a fifth year in a row but its lead over the City has shrunk. But while London is looking to reclaim top spot having been overtaken by New York in 2018 it faces stiff competition from Singapore in third and Hong Kong in fourth. San Francisco makes up the top five. But Frankfurt and Paris which hoped Brexit would offer them a chance to eclipse London are languishing in 14th and 15th respectively. City slickers: The Big Apple was ranked the top global financial hub for a fifth year in a row but its lead over London has shrunk The only other European city in the top ten is Geneva, in Switzerland which, like Britain, is not part of the EU. The findings in the latest edition of The Global Financial Centres Index published by think-tank Z/Yen and the China Development Institute make a mockery of claims that London has lost its lustre since Brexit. And it comes as a vote of confidence amid concerns over the City's standing after a wave of foreign takeovers and decisions by companies such as British chip designer Arm to list in New York rather than London. David Schwimmer, chief executive of the London Stock Exchange Group, last week said the doom and gloom about the City was 'overplayed'. 'Anything that is seen as negative commentary about London as a financial centre has become kind of clickbait,' he said. Reacting to the latest rankings yesterday, David Buik, a consultant to Aquis Exchange, said it was 'no surprise' that London was second only to New York. 'It must never be forgotten that London is the centre of the time zone, with the best lawyers and accountants in the world,' he said. 'Though IPO business has been very disappointing this year due to a dearth of deals, as has been the case relatively in New York, London's prowess in foreign exchange and derivatives is all but peerless. 'London's real competition comes from New York and the Far East. Without being disrespectful, European centres must continue to satisfy themselves in the role of spear carriers in the financial services arena.' The survey ranks cities globally on everything from regulation and the rule of law to the tax burden and transport links as well as the economy and the availability of capital. New York came top with 763 points, up three, while London gained 13 to score 744. Singapore, however, is now only 2 points behind London at 742, itself only a point ahead of Hong Kong in fourth place, signalling an intensifying battle for the second spot. The report noted that the vast majority of financial centres improved their ratings in the past year, despite economic and political turmoil rocking global markets. 'Confidence in international financial centres remains strong,' said economist Professor Michael Mainelli, chairman of Z/Yen. 'Skills and talent development is vital for financial centres, increasingly so with new skills required in areas such as AI and ethics. 'Combining continuing professional development with formal tertiary education is a key strategy to ensure that the financial sector workforce is fit for the future.' Sometimes, when you're referred to hospital, you have a choice of where you go for your treatment. There are many reasons you might wish to be seen somewhere other than your local provider. Another clinic may have better public transport links from your home or the parking might be easier. You may have relatives or friends living in another part of the country you'd like to be near so that they can help look after you. Or you may have heard good things about a particular hospital or know there are shorter waiting lists elsewhere. Sometimes, when you're referred to hospital, you have a choice of where you go for your treatment Whatever the reason, it's your right to be given a choice of different places where you can be treated, whether it's to see a consultant or other health professional or to have an operation. However, while it's been a legal requirement for several years, many people don't know about it. So the next time you are told you are being referred for a first hospital appointment, it's worth remembering that you should get a choice of where you go. And you are free to make a choice based on what's most important to you proximity, waiting times or any other reason you see fit. Because choosing where you are treated doesn't just make for a better experience for you as a patient, it can also help ease pressure on parts of the NHS. That's because it allows you to be seen in a hospital with shorter waiting lists, spreading the load on the health service more equally. HOW IT WORKS You can choose where you would like to receive your first outpatient appointment when you are referred for treatment by a healthcare professional such as a GP, nurse or physiotherapist. Either they or someone else from the practice, such as one of the admin team, should look up the hospitals that offer suitable services for someone with your condition, and go through your options with you. You are free to make a choice based on what's most important to you proximity, waiting times or any other reason you see fit You should be offered a minimum of five choices of healthcare providers where clinically appropriate. You may then prioritise a certain area, a shorter waiting time or something else. Some patients may make their choice straight away during the appointment, but some may wish to take time to consider their options and do their own research. This can be done using websites such as My Planned Care (myplannedcare.nhs.uk) to find out about waiting times and hospital rating information. Once you've made a decision, you can choose online using the link that is sent to you by your practice. If you don't have online access, you can call the national referral helpline, where someone will talk you through your options and help you make a choice. Once you've reached a decision, your chosen provider will contact you with an appointment date and time so that you can get the care you need, where you'd like it. CUTTING WAITING TIMES Dr Jamila Adi recently helped a patient identify a hospital where she could receive treatment much sooner Dr Jamila Adi, a new GP in west London, has been helping patients make choices about their care. When one of her patients recently needed to see an ear, nose and throat doctor, Dr Adi discovered the waiting time was several months. So she looked to see where the shortest waiting lists were and found a private hospital offering NHS care not too far away that had availability much sooner. 'I spoke to the patient in June, and they had an appointment to be seen by the ENT specialist at the end of July, which they were extremely happy with,' says Dr Adi. So next time you're told you need hospital treatment, remember you can make a decision based on what's important for you and pick from a selection of NHS and independent health providers. 'IT'S ALL ABOUT SHOWING PATIENTS THAT THEY HAVE OPTIONS' Dr Marjorie Gillespie explains why giving patient choices is so important Dr Marjorie Gillespie is an Essex-based GP. She says: 'Patient choice has been around for a long time. It's been recognised that if you give patients choice, they are more likely to attend their hospital appointment and are more likely to be satisfied and have a positive outcome. 'It's interesting when you talk to people and say, 'Well, these are all the places that you could go'. Everybody imagines that the only place they can go to is their local major NHS Trust. Some people have strong reasons why that's where they want to go. 'Some people have reasons why that's where they would prefer not to go. This could be because of experiences, positive or negative, for them or for their families. The exceptions... Not everyone can choose their healthcare provider. Those who may not be given a choice include people who: have already had their first outpatient appointment and have been referred on are using emergency services are in need of emergency or urgent treatment such as cancer services are on temporary release from prison or detained in official centres such as secure children's homes, young offender institutions or immigration removal centres are being held under the Mental Health Act 1983 are serving members of the armed forces are using maternity services have been referred by local authorities 'The way it works in practice is if the health professional decides a patient needs a specialist opinion, then they'd go onto the referral service page with them. 'When you open the list, you ask people, 'What's important to you? Is your priority getting seen quickly? Or is it getting seen really close to you your home or your work?' And so picking a location and, where possible, a day and time that suits them. 'And sometimes people want a place that you wouldn't have thought of, but it's because that's where their family is. Then you can show them a list of what is available to them as an NHS patient in that neighbourhood. 'Most often, what we do is give them an indication of the choices that are there and give them a printout with a unique number and a pass code. They can then go home, look up the hospitals, look up the options that are available to them and make a choice. 'Those who are digitally literate can then manage their appointment online. Obviously, for some people, due to language or difficulties with using online options, the practice can help. It's about involving them when we are in the consultation and showing them that they have options. 'If they don't feel they can make a choice while they're sitting with their practitioner, they take the information away and make the appointment choice at home digitally. 'They can also manage their appointment. If it comes through for a day they don't feel is right for them, then they can move it to a different date. You can call or you can do some of it online. And again, GP practices have staff there to help. 'One of the areas where I think choice surprises people is with cataract surgery it's now being done not just in NHS hospitals, but by a number of different types of provider. 'People had no idea that they could get a cataract done as quickly as they can in a different place and that it doesn't involve going to the traditional hospital. And it's free because it's on the NHS.' For more information, go to nhs.uk/patientchoice This article is part of a paid-for partnership with HM Government Do you know anyone in these groups? Email harry.s.howard@mailonline.co.uk This month, the images of men dressed as Nazis parading around a quaint English town during a 1940s-themed festival provoked uproar. And Jim Keeling, the leader of the group who were pictured marching in SS uniforms in Sheringham, Norfolk, was then found to have been previously pictured performing a Nazi salute near Adolf Hitler's summer retreat in Bavaria. But MailOnline can reveal how Keeling's group is just one of dozens operating in the UK whose members depict Nazi troops - including units from the SS, the main organisation responsible for the the Holocaust. The organisations invariably carry disclaimers on their websites insisting they are 'non-political' and against any form of extremism. But respected German historian Robin Schaefer told MailOnline that any re-enactment of the Second World War is 'always political', and claiming it is not is 'silly'. He added that they should have an 'information board' acknowledging the crimes of the individual units, but 'that doesn't happen'. This month, the images of men dressed as Nazis parading around a quaint English town during a 1940s-themed festival provoked uproar. Above: Jim Keeling (right) with fellow members of the 5th SS Wikings at the annual Sheringham 1940s Weekend The groups include the 'SSTK Living History Group', whose members depict 'various units of the Waffen SS from 1941-1945', according to their Instagram page. Photos taken this year show members - who insist they are 'strictly non-political' - taking part in an excursion while dressed in SS uniforms bearing the infamous 'death head' symbol. Another group, the 304 Panzergrenadier Regiment, was condemned as a 'sick joke' by critics in 2022, who claimed they made light of the horrific crimes of Nazi Germany. The group's website says the regiment is committed to 'authenticity' and offers members 'great experiences and camaraderie you will struggle to find in any other hobby.' Photos of the group show its members in uniforms bearing swastikas - the symbol of Hitler's fascist state. The 304 Panzergrenadier Regiment claims to reject racism and far-right politics, and bans its members from doing the Nazi salute or flying the swastika. The unit said it sought to 'honour the fallen soldiers of all nations of WWII.' But critic Dr Dave Rich, the director of policy at the Community Security Trust, insisted last year: 'It is simply not possible to separate this from the genocide and mass murder committed by Nazi Germany in the lands that the German army conquered for Hitler. 'For this group to then claim they do not condone any right-wing or racist activity is a sick joke.' Another organisation, the Grodeutschland Living History Group, says it portrays a unit of the Wehrmacht - the German army - from 1942. Dozens of photos on their Facebook page show members dressed in German uniforms bearing the swastika while on excursions around the country. Savaging the claim that the groups are not political, Mr Schaefer said: 'If you re-enact the Second World War in any way, you cannot separate one from the other. It is always political. It's a political army. 'To say it's not is just silly. To remove one from the other is a dangerous thing to do.' He added: 'If these groups would say they are non political an that they understand what they are re-enacting, that would be ok. 'Perhaps an information board acknowledging the crimes of the original units. But that doesn't happen. 'In Britain you still have the trend of thinking of the German army in two groups: the evil Nazis - such as the Waffen SS - and then you have the other side, the Wehrmacht and Kriegsmarine, who are somehow OK. 'We were educated in Germany in the 1980s that there was no such thing as a clean Wehrmacht, they were doing criminal things for a criminal regime.' A group which a BBC investigation in 2007 revealed had been infiltrated by neo-Nazis is also still active. The '9.SS Panzer-Division Hohenstaufen Living History Group' says it wants to 'inform, educate and entertain'. Above: A member wearing an SS uniform at an event in 2021 The Second Battle Group has pictures on its Facebook page from excursions last year, during which members were pictured wearing SS camouflage uniforms. The group claims on its website to be the 'longest-serving Second World War living history and historical society.' Respected German historian Robin Schaefer told MailOnline that any re-enactment of the Second World War is 'always political', and claiming it is not is 'silly' They add: We do not aim to glorify war or the Nazi Regime but we do aim to portray the fighting German Waffen SS soldier of W.W. II as accurately as possible. 'We do this by wearing the most authentic uniforms available and by using many original vehicles and weapons.' BBC Panorama used a hidden camera to record one of the senior members of the group saying at an event: '"If it [the Waffen SS] existed now, I would join. I believe we should be sorting these Muslims out." The SBG had previously sparked outrage for allowing children to wear the brown shirts of the Hitler Youth and sell Nazi memorabilia at an event in Docklands, East London. The SBG adds on its site that it is 'acutely aware of its controversial portrayal in this hobby and is a totally organization.' A fifth organisation, the '9.SS Panzer-Division Hohenstaufen Living History Group', says it started in 2015 and now has more than 30 members. Their website carries a quote from British Army officer John Frost, who described men from the SS as 'chivalrous' and 'kind' after being captured by them during the war. The group adds: 'We endeavour to Inform, Educate and Entertain the general public by historically portraying the hard pressed battle weary common soldiers of the elite axis forces during the War's final years in war torn Western Europe.' A sixth group, which goes by the name of '1st Panzer Reenactment' has photos on Twitter of members in SS uniforms and wielding rifles. A sixth group, which goes by the name of '1st Panzer Reenactment' has photos on Twitter of members in SS uniforms and wielding rifles Members of the '1st Panzer' re-enactment group are seen wearing SS uniforms The Second Battle Group has pictures on its Facebook page from excursions last year, during which members were pictured wearing SS camouflage uniforms Members of the Second Battle Group wearing SS uniforms during an excursion Members of the Second Battle Group firing a gun while wearing German uniforms Members of the Second Battle Group march down a road while wearing SS uniforms Some of the group's posts show how they trained with the '5th SS Wiking' group led by Keeling. The furore in Sheringham took off after Keeling and others wore uniforms bearing swastikas and the Nazi 'death's head' symbol at the annual Sheringham 1940s Weekend. They were also reportedly seen goose-stepping and performing the Nazi salute. A spokesman for the group had insisted that none of them 'portrayed a German' and that they instead were representing men from other European nations who joined Adolf Hitler's SS to fight 'against Stalin and communism during WWII'. Historian Mr Schaefer savaged their apparent attempts to justify their choice of attire, calling it 'complete cretinous b***s***' which 'doesn't make any sense'. Other attendees were said to have been left 'very, very upset', despite the group's claim that 'no one was upset or offended'. One told the Mail: 'It was deeply offensive,' said one shaken witness. 'These men were not milling about and blending in. They were marching and making a demonstration. It was frightening. 'My father was from a Jewish family who lost his parents and brothers and sisters in death camps. 'He was fortunate to escape with my uncle via Kindertransport, so having to see this with my son was mortally offensive and a disgraceful act.' The men were asked to leave and then escorted out of the area. The furore in Sheringham took off after Keeling and others wore uniforms bearing swastikas and the Nazi 'death's head' symbol at the annual Sheringham 1940s Weekend Keeling was then found to have been previously pictured performing a Nazi salute near Adolf Hitler's summer retreat in Bavaria Keeling (background), pictured with a friend, is seen doing the Nazi salute near Hitler's summer retreat, the Eagle's Nest The spokesman claimed he was 'attacked' by a man who was 'foaming at the mouth' and 'screaming about Jewish persecution'. He added: 'As a group we do not tolerate any politics or any form of religious persecution. We simply won't have it. That behaviour disgusts us and tarnishes what we do.' However, just days later, photos exclusively revealed by MailOnline showed the leader of the group - who was named as father-of-four Keeling - performing a Nazi salute near Hitler's summer retreat, the 'Eagle's Nest' in Bavaria In June of this year, Keeling and friends posted a series of photos on Facebook of their trip to Nuremberg and Berchtesgaden, where the Fuhrers summer retreat is now a seasonal restaurant. Keeling leads the Norfolk-based '5th SS Wiking' group of re-enactors. Further investigation by the Mail found that Keeling has long-standing obsession with military history, particularly the 5th SS Wiking - an armed regiment under the overarching auspices of SS chief Heinrich Himmler - that was largely made up of foreign volunteers, not Germans. Keeling's estranged eldest son told the Mail how his father would hang a Nazi flag on the washing line of his home in Bradwell, near to Great Yarmouth, to mark Adolf Hitler's birthday. A whispering campaign among panicking Democrats to force Joe Biden to stand down in favor of a younger 2024 nominee is reaching fever pitch, DailyMail.com can reveal. Behind the scenes there is widespread and growing alarm over the 80-year-old president's recent string of gaffes, and increasing frustration at his determination to stand for re-election. A senior former White House official, who worked with Biden, told DailyMail.com: 'We are one figurative or literal trip away from Biden reinforcing that he is simply too old, and then it may be too late to stand up another candidate. 'There's a lot of hand wringing and a lot of Democrats not sleeping soundly because they're worried about what this is going to look like a year from now. Joe Biden falls up the stairs boarding Air Force One at Joint base Andrews, Maryland 'The Democratic party needs to move on, and Biden needs to recognize this is about more than one person, more than one president. It's an opportunity [for him] to ride off into the sunset having transited the country to safer waters.' If he won't retire there are growing calls from senior figures for Biden, at the very least, to face a wide-open primary taking on all-comers. A current member of the Democratic National Committee told Dailymail.com: 'People have expressed concern to me about his age and indicated they have some hesitancy. 'I think a primary is always a good way to ensure you have the most effective candidate.' It came as Dean Phillips, a Democratic congressman from Minnesota, broke cover and said he was 'thinking about' a primary challenge, although he said there were other more widely known figures. Names being mentioned privately by disgruntled senior Democrats include Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer, California governor Gavin Newsom, Illinois governor J.B. Pritzker, Senator Cory Booker and Senator Amy Klobuchar. Potential younger candidates: Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer (right) and lllinois Governor J. B. Pritzker (center) chat with Hillary Clinton But the White House has been accused of blocking them from the spotlight as they desperately try to keep a lid on dissent. One source said there was a deliberate campaign by the White House to 'ostracize' anyone in the party who criticizes Biden publicly He has already refused to debate his two current challengers Robert Kennedy Jr. and self-help guru Marianne Williamson. Those who want to drop Biden before 2024 told DailyMail.com there is no appetite for a simple coronation of Vice President Kamala Harris as the nominee. 'I don't think in this town you'll find many people who believe that Kamala Harris is our best alternative to Biden,' said the senior former White House official. 'She's had shaky run in office and we need to put forward our strongest candidate. There are a number of others.' California Governor Gavin Newsom is said to have irritated the White House due to his high profile Gretchen Whitmer, the governor of Michigan, has said she won't run for the Democrat presidential nomination but many Democrats want her to It comes as the strongest argument to keep Biden - that he is the best placed to beat Donald Trump - is being sharply eroded. A Washington Post/ABC poll last week showed Trump 10 points ahead in a hypothetical head-to-head. Meanwhile, an Associated Press/NORC poll found 77 percent of Americans believe Biden is too old for re-election. That included 69 per cent of Democrats. The whispering campaign went public in recent weeks when David Ignatius, a supporter of Biden, wrote a column in the Washington Post arguing he should not seek re-election. But, according to one former staffer, there is no one who could dissuade Biden from running even if they wanted to, including his closest family members. He is said to believe that his policies are bearing fruit and his achievements have not been communicated properly to the American people. However, his staff have spent much of their time dealing with the fallout from a litany of gaffes, which appear to be increasing in frequency. In the last week alone Biden repeated the same story twice in minutes, confused a black group with a Hispanic one, and mangled LL Cool J's name, also calling him 'boy'. The White House have had him hold few press conferences, having previously had to deal with ad hoc policy announcements and confusing statements. Biden underwent his last annual physical exam at the Walter Reed National Medical Centre in Maryland in February and was declared healthy, but his cognitive abilities were not assessed. An emerging White House tactic has been for him to deal with questions about his age by making jokes about it, and also to attack Trump, 77, over his age. Veteran Democratic strategist James Carville, said it was overwhelmingly clear voters do not want a choice between Biden and Trump. He told DailyMail.com: 'Age is a factor that people are weighing and weighing it pretty seriously. Bill Clinton strategist James Carville said it was clear the public wanted a different choice than Biden or Trump 'All I can tell you is what the public thinks. And the public does not want this choice. Its very clear. The political system has to decide if its going to provide them with an alternative choice. But I can tell you, its repeated, overwhelming, and consistent data that the public does not want this choice. I cant say it any other way.' He said it 'could change' and it was 'never too late' for another candidate, adding: 'Theres no magical cutoff day here.' Carville, a key strategist in Bill Clinton's successful 1992 campaign, has warned that Biden could lose. His advice to the current Biden team was to 'do what theyre doing' and 'gut it out'. Baccarat says the hack has not affected its glitzy Manhattan hotel The email warns client to be wary of suspicious emails posing as the crystal firm New York City's opulent Baccarat hotel has denied it is facing a cyber attack which impacted its crystalwear namesake brand. Revealed Tuesday in an email from the CEO, the hack is currently affecting the venerable French crystal company of the same name. The correspondence further warns Baccarat crystal customers to be wary of any suspicious messages from parties pretending to be Paris-based company. Baccarat made a splash in New York with an eponymous luxury hotel that opened in March 2015, with rooms starting from $899-a-night. But the hack is not affecting the hotel, a spokesperson confirmed. The Baccarat hotel in New York has denied claims it is facing a cyberattack that has hit the iconic crystal brand of the same name Sent at 4:16pm Tuesday, the statement from the boss of the preeminent crystal factory, Maggie Henriquez, warns customers who pay for the pricey cut glass to watch out for rogue emails Sent at 4:16pm Tuesday, the statement from the boss of the preeminent crystal factory, Maggie Henriquez, reads as follows: 'Your loyalty is our priority at Baccarat and I am contacting you to share an important message. 'As a matter of anticipation and risk prevention, I must inform you on behalf of Baccarat that our Maison is currently facing a cyberattack,' it continues. 'As a result, a portion of our activity is constrained.' The message, obtained by DailyMail.com, does not specify the nature of the attack, but attempts to quell concerns by stating how 'at this stage, there is no indication that any of our customers personal or confidential data has been compromised.' 'Nevertheless,' it adds, 'we ask that you exercise the utmost vigilance with regard to any unusual message you may receive from Baccarat.' Henriquez - tapped to head the 257-year-old French crystal-maker in 2021 - further warns: 'If you receive an unusual request from our Maison, please do not hesitate to contact us by phone to verify its authenticity.' The message was sent at just after 4pm by the French firm's CEO Maggie Henriquez, who was tapped to head the 257-year-old company in 2021. She did not specify the nature of the hack The lobby of NYC's Baccarat Hotel is stuffed with the firm's crystal - with the glassware brand now facing a cyber attack There are 17 custom Baccarat chandeliers in the property and 100 custom-designed works of art. Pictured is the hotel's 'petit salon' While not affected, the Baccarat Hotel is stuffed with fine crystal from the brand that is, and offers untrammeled luxury for guests lucky enough to enjoy its facilities. It offers guest '1,740 sq ft of luxury and seclusion' on a private floor of hotel with its own elevator, as well as a complementary Mercedes. Other suites are priced well into the thousands, with the cheapest coming in at just under $2,200 a night. Normal rooms, meanwhile, cost roughly $900 nightly, with a large portion exceeding the thousand mark as well. Out-of-favour airline Qantas continues to be hit with dramas on multiple fronts after a tough few weeks forced CEO Alan Joyce to retire early. This week, Love Island star Tayla Damir unleashed at the carrier over the treatment of her pet French bulldog, who she claims was left in a crate for nine hours after being bumped from a Melbourne to Perth flight. 'Our poor Charlie was meant to embark on a flight early this morning. Instead he has been left a the airport in a crate for over 9 hours without food,' she explained on Instagram. 'Qantas thought it was ok to attempt to put him on a later flight tonight at 5pm which would mean he was in a crate with no care for over 14 hours. In what world is that ok?' However, Qantas has disputed Tayla's allegations and claimed that Charlie was regularly checked on, looked after and provided with water. 'Unfortunately the pet was unable to travel on its scheduled flight and was put onto the following available flight later in the day,' a spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia. The complaint coincides with a parliamentary committee tasked with grilling Qantas bosses hearing that Australians would have benefitted from cheaper airfares by Christmas if the government didn't block competitor Qatar Airways from adding another 28 routes. The dramas are the latest in a series of troubles that have plagued Qantas in recent weeks - with the biggest two potentially costing the airline hundreds of millions of dollars in penalties. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is taking the airline to Federal Court, claiming it sold tickets on thousands of already-cancelled flights. While the High Court earlier this month agreed the airline's sacking of 1700 workers during the Covid pandemic was illegal under the Fair Work Act. AFL WAG and Love Island star Tayla Damir lashed out at Qantas for leaving her dog 'in a crate for over nine hours without food' after a delayed flight from Melbourne to Perth She later revealed Charlie had been found and she had brought him back home but he appeared 'exhausted and dehydrated' The parliamentary committee is looking into what role Qantas played in the transport minister's decision to knock back Qatar Airway's application. On Thursday, Today hosts Karl Stefanovic and Sarah Abo accused the Albanese government of a 'sweetheart deal' with Qantas at the expense of consumers and said they were 'up to their eyeballs' in questions over the decision. Transport Minister Catherine King has not elaborated on what 'national interest' she used to deny the flights, though has said an invasive strip search of 13 Australian women at Doha airport in 2020 played a role. Qatar's 28 flights compares to Emirates' 84 weekly flights and Etihad's 63. Qantas chairman Richard Goyder and new CEO Vanessa Hudson appeared before the committee to address the mounting criticism on Wednesday afternoon. But the committee was unable to summon former boss Alan Joyce as he is overseas. Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil said Mr Joyce is 'entitled to do what he wants to do but has got public responsibilities, I think, to front up.' Ms Hudson said she was not involved in any discussions about blocking Qatar Airways with the government and did not learn their application was knocked back until it was publicly revealed. Today co-host Abo asked Simon Harrison, chairman of the Australia Qatar Business Council: 'Is this a sweetheart deal between Qantas and the government?'. He replied: 'I can only surmise... there is a high probability that is the case.' Treasurer Jim Chalmers who was also on the program flatly denied that claim. Stefanovic quipped back that 'it looks to me like (the government) is saying 'nothing to see here,' when, in fact, you guys are up to your eyeballs in this and don't know how to get out.' The ACCC claims Qantas sold more than 8,000 tickets on already-cancelled 'ghost flights' Qatar senior vice-president Matt Raos told the parliamentary committee the airline found out its bid was rejected via the media on July 10 and then received a letter 10 days later that was sent on July 14. 'We were surprised and shocked by the decision... to reject our application for additional flights to Australia,' Mr Raos told the hearing. 'Even more surprising was the government gave us no reason for rejecting our application, we really can't understand why.' But Mr Raos said the airline hadn't given up hope of doubling its 28 flights per week and would be ready to deliver the extra services this year. 'We had plans to deploy those aircrafts well in advance, we have to make sure... aircrafts are aligned,' he said. 'We aim to operate before Christmas, we hope we manage to do that.' Coalition senator Simon Birimingham remarked in response 'that would be great news for travellers and our tourism sector'. Qatar estimated the additional flights would add $3 billion of economic benefits to Australia, adding the Victorian government was forecasting a second daily flight from Doha to Melbourne would create 900 jobs. New Qantas CEO Hudson has promised to win back customer confidence and will spend potentially hundreds of millions of dollars to do so - bringing back overseas call centres and implementing measures to ensure flights run on schedule. Qantas chief executive Vanessa Hudson (pictured) has promised to win back customer confidence Mr Goyder, who previously steered Wesfarmers though the 2008 global financial crises, has seen growing calls from pilots and shareholders for him to resign. However, he assured the committee he was the right person to lead Qantas forward and believed he had the confidence of 'major shareholders'. 'I have had meetings with our major shareholders two weeks ago, and they are very strongly supportive of me staying, and I would also argue my history in business has been one of high ethics, looking to create value for all our stakeholders.' He added neither he, not any other Qantas board member, had lobbied the government to block Qatar Airway's application for more flights. The Australian and International Pilots Association (AIPA) - a union which represents most of Qantas' roughly 3,000 pilots - is calling for the airline's chairman Richard Goyder (pictured) to stand down Inquiry chair Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie did not say whether Mr Goyder should resign. However she said the board had contributed to the airline's loss in public standing. 'Our once great national carrier that we're all proud to call the spirit of Australia has had its reputation trashed and not just by the board but by the former CEO's behaviour and perceived cosy relationship with the Albanese government,' she told ABC Radio. The Australian Shareholders' Association is the latest to add its voice to the call, with chief executive Rachel Waterhouse saying a slew of recent Qantas scandals makes his position untenable. EXCLUSIVE WARNING: Graphic content A depraved crocodile expert sent vile texts to Telegram users under the name 'Monster', boasting about how he tortured small animals as a child, molested horses as a 13-year-old, and encouraged others to rape and kill pet dogs. Adam Britton, 52, confessed in Darwin's Supreme Court on Monday to about 60 charges relating to animal abuse, bestiality, and for the possession of child exploitation material. According to court documents seen by Daily Mail Australia, the once-respected academic and zoologist sourced about 42 dogs on Gumtree Australia over a two-year period for the sole purpose of torturing the animals to death on camera. Britton would often arrange to take dogs from families who were forced to give their pets up due to work or health issues, and once described watching children cry as he took their beloved pets away. He was arrested in April 2022 when an anonymous internet user noticed a female dog in one of his online videos was wearing an orange City of Darwin leash. However, texts tendered to the court show that Britton had been abusing animals long before he was even on the radar of local authorities. 'I always knew I had it in me,' he once said in a private chat. Adam Britton (pictured) has confessed to animal abuse, bestiality, and for the possession of child exploitation material Pictured: A mock-up of a Telegram conversation Britton had with a user referred to by police as 'Deleted Account 8' He operated two Telegram accounts between 2020 and 2022 under the names 'Monster' and 'Cerberus' - the latter being a three-headed dog in Greek mythology - which he used to send out footage of the abuse to other depraved people. It was in these conversations that he spoke freely about his his disturbing bestiality fantasies that began when he was a school-aged boy growing up in England. One conversation took place between August and December 2021, with a Telegram user called 'Gorvaged' who Britton described as a 'close friend' due to their shared sick obsession. 'I remember being sadistic to small animals when I was maybe seven or eight, and I repressed it but it really started to come back out again in my fantasies in my 20s and 30s,' Britton said, under the pseudonym 'Monster'. He was a self-described 'zoosadist', which means he took sexual pleasure from animal cruelty. In the messages, he wrote: 'I became a zoo [sadist] when I was... well, probably about 12. 'I vaguely remember being interested in animals before then, but that's when it got sexual. I started fence jumping when I was 13 or 14 and molesting horses.' Pictured: A mock-up of a conversation Britton had with Telegram user, Gorvaged, in 2021 He gave advice about how to source dogs to kill, and the best ways to lie to the owners - which included taking special care not to appear 'creepy'. 'Have a decent story (sob stories are best, your poor dog died you want another etc) and be genuine, friendly, not creepy,' he said 'Owner is looking for a good 'forever home' for their beloved pooch, make sure you offer them one. Use fake numbers and addresses, walk away if it doesn't feel good or easy, and try again if it doesn't work out.' Britton's online friend asked, on behalf of another user called 'Mr Fear', whether he had ever taken a dog from a crying family member. 'Like a crying daughter or something?' Britton said: 'Every time there's a kid, there's crying. Every. Time.' In another conversation with a user referred to by police as 'Deleted Account 11', in September 2021, Brittonj said: 'I was talking with someone else about why I love to hurt dogs, and that was what I'd been thinking.' 'I wasn't sure at first, but now I live for it. I can't stop myself.' Court documents show Britton had conversations with those two users in particular, but Deleted Account 11 appeared to be relatively new to the world of zoosadism. Pictured: A mock-up of a conversation Britton had with a Telegram user referred to by police as 'Deleted Account 11'. In November 2021, the pair engaged in a disturbing conversation during which Britton admitted he felt guilt the first time he murdered a dog, but overcame it by killing more dogs. Britton asked: 'You want to try torturing or snuffing a dog? It's worth it.' Deleted Account 11: 'God yes I do. Have you done it?' Britton: 'I have. It will change your life for the better ;) Deleted Account 11: 'Oh I'd love to hear all about it! Were you nervous?' Britton: 'The first time? Yeah, I guess I was. I mean, I definitely was. And there was some regret afterwards even, but it passed quickly and I did another a week later. And that one I did not regret. And then another, and another etc.' Deleted Account 11 then called Britton 'inspirational'. At one stage, as Britton described the agony he inflicted upon dogs - which he once dragged out for four days on the same animal - Deleted Account 11 said: 'Damn everything you are saying is so hot x.' Before his deranged habits were uncovered, Britton (pictured during an interview with Triple J) was a well-respected zoologist and crocodile expert Throughout the conversations, Britton sent dozens of videos to his depraved friend which showed him carrying out abuse against the helpless animals. In December 2021, Britton and a user referred to by police as Deleted Account 14 had a conversation about Gorvaged, who appeared to have died unexpectedly. Deleted Account 14 said: 'He was a keystone to this community.' Britton replied: 'I should probably delete our chat history, but...I don't want to. 'I guess his family won't know how much he was respected by our little community, but... that's probably for the best lol! God damn, life is short.' Court documents also described the child abuse videos found on Britton's computer, some of which he appeared to obtain via other Telegram users. One user who called themselves 'Clark Kent' offered to sent Britton a video of a baby being abused. Britton wrote: 'Curious to see that one. I mean generally it's not my thing, but sometimes you know... ;).' The conversations invariably turned back to animal abuse and necrobestiality, which is sexual intercourse with a dead animal. Britton was caught in April last year, shortly undoing came shortly he uploaded a video called '1B***h9Pups to an abuse website on March 22, 2022. Britton (pictured) was arrested when internet sleuths recognised a City of Darwin leash on one of the dogs in a video he posted online The following day, an anonymous internet user noticed the adult female dog was wearing an orange City of Darwin leash with the slogan 'great pets start with you'. They referred the footage to the NT Animal Welfare Branch via Gmail, which then referred the matter to police. On April 22, a month after Britton posted the video online, NT Police and Australian Federal Police raided his McMinns Lagoon home, in Darwin's south. Detectives seized computers, mobile phones, cameras, external hard drives, tools, weapons, dog paraphernalia and sex toys. They also found severed dog limbs in a freezer, a decomposing puppy in a pond on the property, and a severed dog head on a neighbouring property. Britton was charged with 37 counts of animal cruelty, 10 counts of raping or attempting to rape a dog, and four counts of possessing or transmitting child abuse material. He has been on remand in custody since his arrest and will appear in court again for sentencing on December 13. Victoria's new premier Jacinta Allan is married to a senior public servant in charge of giving a free fishing rod to every school kid as the state grapples with a mounting debt crisis. Jacinta Allan's husband of 11 years, Yorick Piper, is on the Victorian Fisheries Authority board, having previously been a Construction Forestry Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) official and a senior political adviser to another Labor premier. Departed premier Daniel Andrews last year was re-elected for a third term, with one of his promises to give every school kid in the state a fishing rod, as part of a broader $96million package during a debt crisis. This included a $1.5million program to provide 60,000 'Little Angler Kits' to 'primary school-aged kids in every corner of the state'. The Victorian Fisheries Authority, which Mr Piper is part of, is charged with distributing Little Angler Kits. His profile boasts that he 'is passionate about fishing, fishing policy development and the importance of education in this Authority'. Victoria's new premier Jacinta Allan is married to a senior public servant in charge of giving a fishing rod to every school kid as the state grapples with mounting debt Her husband of 11 years, Yorick Piper (left), is on the Victorian Fisheries Board, having previously been a Construction Forestry Mining and Energy Union official and a senior Labor political adviser READ MORE: Jacinta Allan's Commonwealth Games debacle The woman tipped to replace Daniel Andrews as Victorian premier was in charge of the state's cancelled Commonwealth Games bid Advertisement He had also previously been a ministerial chief-of-staff and was an adviser to former Labor premier John Brumby until he lost the 2010 election. Ms Allan, who turned 50 last week, was on Wednesday elected unopposed as Labor's new leader in Victoria, making her the state's 49th premier, with her Socialist Left faction having the numbers in the caucus. The twice-married, ute-driving mother of two was sworn in as premier on Wednesday afternoon after 24 years in Parliament, including 17 as a minister. Her political career started the day before her 26th birthday when she unexpectedly won the regional electorate of Bendigo East, north-west of Melbourne, with an eight per cent swing against the sitting Liberal member. The future premier wasn't expected to beat incumbent MP Michael John, who was 56 - or 30 years her senior, having held the seat for 14 years. But she was elected in September 1999 at the election that saw Labor leader Steve Bracks unexpectedly beat Liberal premier Jeff Kennett. Labor won a swathe of regional electorates from the Coalition, including Bendigo East in a campaign focused on the government being Melbourne-centric. At the time, Ms Allan was an electorate officer for the federal Labor member for Bendigo, Steve Gibbons, who had encouraged her to run in the overlapping state seat. Within three years, she was promoted to the ministry, with the employment and youth affairs portfolio, taking on regional and rural development in 2007 when Mr Brumby became premier. When Labor returned to power in 2014, after just one term in Opposition, she was promoted to the public transport portfolio, adding major projects in 2016 and transport infrastructure in 2018. Ms Allan's elevation makes her Victoria's first Labor premier since 1932 to hold a regional electorate. Former Victorian Labor senator Gavin Marshall, who also hailed from her Left faction, said Ms Allan was a rarity in politics. 'She was always very competent, you could tell when she first started she was going to go places,' he told Daily Mail Australia. 'She had the work ethic, she had the great integrity and she was a genuinely, really nice person so when you actually put those three things together in politics, I'm not surprised she's been very successful.' But her promotion into the job of premier came just two months after Victoria cancelled the 2026 Commonwealth Games, which was meant to be held in Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Gippsland and Shepparton. As the former 'Minister for Commonwealth Games Delivery', she presided over projected costs for the 13-day regional event climbing above $6billion. The cancellation will see Victorian taxpayers hand over $380million to the Commonwealth Games Federation in London. The twice-married, ute-driving mother of two was sworn in as premier on Wednesday afternoon after 24 years in Parliament, including 17 as a minister (she is pictured in 2013 with her daughter Peggy) For almost a decade, she has been in charge of transport and infrastructure portfolios as the cost of Labor's signature level railway crossing plan blew out by more than $3billion, based on earlier cost estimates. She is the first woman to lead Victoria since Joan Kirner lost the 1992 election, in the aftermath of the State Bank collapse. Monash University professor of politics Paul Strangio said Ms Allan was likely to be a much more consultative leader than her predecessor, Mr Andrews. 'One type of leadership falls out of vogue and another one comes in,' he told Daily Mail Australia. 'She'll be inclined to be more consensual and collaborative. 'The party will probably demand it, there's been a lot of pent-up, energy, chafing at the bit, if you like, under the very tight control exercised by Andrews. 'She's a woman and the stereotype is that women tend to be more collegial, empathic in their leadership - that is a stereotype but nonetheless, there's certainly more than a grain of truth in it.' Employment Minister Ben Carroll, from the party's Right faction, briefly put his name forward but quickly withdrew from the leadership race on Wednesday, in a deal to make him Deputy Premier, the role Ms Allan held until Wednesday. This spared Labor from having to conduct a lengthy 50:50 ballot of MPs and party members. Like Ms Kirner in 1990, who also came from the Socialist Left faction, Ms Allan will be taking over a third-term Labor government with a poor record on financial management. A generation ago, Labor presided over the State Bank collapse after its merchant banking arm lost $2.7billion. This led to Bob Hawke's Labor government selling off the Commonwealth Bank to bail out Victoria. Melbourne's world-record 267 days of lockdowns and costly public transport projects are now causing financial heartache. Departing premier Daniel Andrews last year was re-elected, for a third term, with one of his promises to give every school kid in the state a fishing rod, as part of a broader $96million package during a debt crisis (he is pictured in 2018 with his wife Catherine in Melbourne) Employment Minister Ben Carroll (right), from the party's Right faction, briefly put his name forward but quickly withdrew from the leadership race on Wednesday, in a deal to make him Deputy Premier, the role Ms Allan held until Wednesday Victoria's net debt of $116.7billion for 2022-23 was more than the combined net debt of New South Wales ($78.4billion), Queensland ($14.5billion), South Australia ($19billion) and Tasmania ($2.994billion). The state's net debt in the May Budget papers was forecast to climb to $171.4billion by 2026-27, making up 24.5 per cent of gross state product. But before financial assets were included, Victoria's gross debt for 2023-24 was expected to make up 198.6 per cent of government revenue, rising to 225.1 per cent by 2026-27. As other Labor governments announce surplus Budgets, Victoria is in deficit, targeting the rich, by hiking taxes on businesses, property owners and private schools in a bid to pay off - over 10 years - the $31.5billion in Covid debt it racked up during the pandemic. Last week, Mr Andrews announced a new 7.5 per cent consumer tax on all short-term accommodation bookings with platforms such as Airbnb and Stayz, beginning in 2025. Labor has never won a fourth, consecutive term in power - which Ms Allan will be aiming to do in November 2026 - but Professor Strangio said the Liberal Opposition was in such disarray she would most likely make history despite the longevity in government. 'Unless the Liberals can get their act together, Labor will be re-elected in 2026 because there will be no alternative,' he said. 'Victoria is almost like a one-party, government state.' Homeowners across Britain have been left fearing for their safety in future after BT confirmed it will pull the plug on traditional landlines for millions of customers. The telecoms giant said that from 2025, all households and businesses will need an internet connection to make calls, despite fears elderly people could be left at risk. Landlines are to be run through broadband under its new service Digital Voice, and BT said the next areas to be upgraded are the North West and London this autumn. The switch has already begun in the East Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber, and Northern Ireland while Scotland will move from analogue to digital next summer. But the shake-up has led to concerns elderly people may not be able to make 999 calls or raise an alarm via health pendants that use the existing telephone system. BT said it would not yet force the switch on those with healthcare pendants or without internet connections or mobile phones. It said it has been consulting an advisory group, has held 40 events, placed ads and met thousands of customers. But here, we speak to a series of people in the UK worried about the switchover: SWITCHOVER COULD LEAVE PEOPLE TRAPPED IN HOMES Aaron Comber, 53, of Steyning, West Sussex, is fighting a battle to keep an analogue phone line for his mother, whom he lives with Ruth Comber, 75, of Steyning in West Sussex, said she is a widowed state pensioner who is 'totally reliant on my landline'. She said: 'I have a mobile phone, but the reception is so bad where I live it would be quicker to use pigeon post for communication. This switchover fills me with dread.' Her son Aaron, 53, who lives with his mother, agrees and is angry about what he perceives as a high-handed manner of the telecoms giant. The former pub landlord said: 'It is not just the elderly who are vulnerable but anyone in a rural area with no mobile reception will be totally stuck in a power cut. This is about putting profits ahead of customers. 'Those copper lines they strip out will be worth a fortune.' Last month, Mrs Comber wrote a letter to the Daily Mail about the issue in which she said: 'During a power cut, my current landline would still work because the exchange has back-up power that feeds to the phone through the line, but a digital replacement would not work. I would be trapped, helpless, in my home.' LIFE OR DEATH FOR EMERGENCY BUTTON USERS Neville Withers, 84, of Acton in West London, is worried about what the switchover will mean for emergency button users like him Others that will be affected include those with health pendants or who have a home alarm system connected to the local fire service, as these will also often stop working following the switch. Neville Withers, 84, from Acton in West London, is particularly fearful about what this will mean in the future. He said: 'There are thousands like me who are disabled with mobility problems. 'I have a button attached to my wrist I can press in an emergency. It is routed through a traditional landline to a care centre.' The retired TV supervisor added: 'Fortunately, I have family and friends but, like many millions of others, the digital switch means if the button fails it could be a matter of life and death.' I'M BEING SWITCHED TO A SYSTEM I DON'T WANT Retired mental health nurse Trevor Bailey is among the worried Virgin Media customers Other telecoms providers involved in the digital rollout include Virgin Media. It has five million customers, including retired mental health nurse Trevor Bailey. The 73-year-old said: 'I am having my landline moved from an old copper system that works perfectly well to a new fibre optic system I do not want, requiring an adaptor. My provider is Virgin Media. 'I cannot get hold of it on the phone but get connected to an 'expert chatbot'. 'All I wanted to do was speak to a human being. I shall now be cancelling my contract as soon as it is up.' Virgin has said that, if necessary, it can provide extra back up lines for vulnerable customers in case of power cuts that come with eight hours back up time. It also offers technical support up to six months ahead of the change for such customers - with a free engineer visit if needed. CALLS FROM HOSPITAL DID NOT GET THROUGH Jackie Carlton, 70, of Kilham in the East Riding of Yorkshire, was told she and husband Allan, 71, would be switching in August. But they were not given any information about how they could delay the switch because Mrs Carlton could be classified as vulnerable, as she has cancer. The retired librarian said: 'The hospital tried to call me at the end of August to book an appointment, but the landline had been switched to digital voice without my knowledge, so calls did not get through. 'We live in a rural area with power cuts seven alone in the past couple of months - and terrible mobile reception. 'My experience shows just how dangerous this switchover can be putting the lives of the vulnerable people at risk.' The predicament faced by the Carltons is far from an isolated incident and despite BT claims that it 'won't be proactively switching' vulnerable customers, it continues to force the change on millions of homes. The onus to ask for a 12-month delay is on customers. The change to traditional copper landlines will be rolled out across the UK over the next year It comes as BT ditches a pledge to ensure phone users aged over 70 can keep their landlines and will not be forced on to controversial new digital lines for 12 months and is signing them up straight away. Q&A: WHAT IS THE SWITCHOVER AND WILL IT AFFECT ME? Will I need a fast connection? Internet speeds of just one megabit per second (Mbps) should be enough for a good digital phone service. And every UK household has the right to demand a download speed of at least 10 Mbps. Will my bills rise? Customers will have to pay for the internet to use their home phone. But experts have said providers are likely to offer cheap, basic deals similar to landline-only contracts. It is not known if customers with older phones will need to buy a new handset or if they will get one for free. BT has said Digital Voice will have no impact on how BT customers use their home phone and will not cost any more than customers pay today. What if the internet goes down? If the internet crashes or there is a power cut, digital phone lines will stop working. Those who are vulnerable or do not have a mobile phone should be offered a back-up such as a battery pack, emergency phone line or mobile phone so they can still call 999 in an emergency. What do I need to do? Nothing yet. Those on landline-only deals or without the internet will hear from their providers later on. Advertisement The telecoms giant shelved its initial rollout last year after an investigation by The Mail on Sunday alerted the industry watchdog Ofcom to operational flaws, including how customers cannot use their phone lines in a power cut. It was only restarted after an advisory group agreed to allow elderly homeowners the chance to delay installation by 12 months so they could get to grips with the new technology and not feel forced by the move. Among those involved in this Digital Voice Advisory Group was campaigning organisation for the elderly, Silver Voices. But it now feels tricked as after agreeing to the deal BT is raising the age from when you can delay installation to 75. Dennis Reed, director of Silver Voices, said: 'We were part of that advisory group and agreed not to oppose the resumed rollout as long as those aged 70 were looked after during the change. We have been hoodwinked and BT has broken this pledge.' Although BT is alerting homes of the change with cards and letters sent through the post, emails and texts it is leaving it up to customers to put it on hold. The new digital phones must be plugged into an electric socket and require a broadband connection to work using so-called Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology rather than analogue signals on copper lines. Six million adults do not own a mobile phone and 1.5 million homes do not use the internet. Digital Voice requires customers to use a new handset or adapter for old phones that plugs into an internet and electricity socket. If you do not use the internet, BT says it will send out engineers to adapt phone lines for free and provide a new digital handset and adapter for free. BT charges 85 for power-pack batteries for those who fear they may be stuck in a power cut but for vulnerable customers it should provide these for free. Phone users should not notice a change in sound quality. Over the next two years BT wants to switch 10 million customers to digital. Nationwide, the Government wants all 29 million homes to embrace digital technology. BT memorably used Maureen Lipman as 'Beattie' to promote landline services in the 1980s BT initially agreed it would allow everyone aged 70 or older a chance to delay switching for a year to give customers time to adapt to the technology. Digital Voice is being rollout out region by region. Some two million homes have already switched over. In July, it focused on the East Midlands and in August started contacting those in Yorkshire and Humberside, giving them a four-week warning they were next to connect. Northern Ireland is also being targeted. Homes in the North-West and London are to be contacted this autumn. Customers are initially targeted with emails and texts, along with cards posted through the letterbox. BT is also holding regional town hall meetings. The telecoms giant confirmed that initially, customers with a healthcare pendant, only use a landline, have no mobile signal or those who have disclosed any additional needs will not be proactively switched. Lucy Baker, All-IP director for BT Consumer, said: 'Through the work with our Digital Voice Advisory Group and our regional engagement, we've held 40 events, placed local radio and newspaper ads and met over 4,000 customers in person. 'We understand that any change can be unsettling, and we're here to support our customers every step of the way. First-hand experience shows that once people have the facts and have spoken to one of our advisers, they feel confident to make the switch. 'If we've not been in touch or visited your area yet, don't worry. We'll be in touch when it's time to switch. For anyone who has any issues, questions or concerns, then I'd encourage them to get in touch and let us know.' It is understood that BT customers are contacted at least four weeks in advance before making the switch, to ensure that they are ready to move to Digital Voice. An ex-prisoner who says she worked with Becky Watts' killer Shauna Hoare while in jail says she acted like a victim and tried to portray a 'timid sweetness' - but would 'manipulate situations for her benefit'. Hoare, 29, was released under licence at the start of this month after serving eight years, which she received for her part in the murder of the Bristol teen that shocked the nation back in 2015. She was found guilty of manslaughter in October that year, and given a 17-year sentence. Her then boyfriend Nathan Matthews - who was Becky's step-brother - was convicted of murder and given a life sentence with a minimum term of 33 years. Former inmate Emily Duff, who says she was in a house block inside HMP Bronzefield with Hoare, has told her TikTok followers what the killer was like behind bars. She claims she was 'privileged' and had her own shower in her room, was able to complete a beauty qualification, had a girlfriend, and acted like a victim on the inside. But Duff, a former drug runner according to the Daily Star, told her TikTok followers in a video that she believed Hoare's behaviour was fake and that she was 'evil to the core'. Shauna Hoare, 29, (pictured) was released under licence after serving half the sentence she received for her part in the murder of Becky Watts The Bristol teen, pictured, was murdered in 2015 by her step-brother and Hoare's then boyfriend Nathan Matthews 'When in HMP Bronzefield, Shauna actually lived on what was essentially an enhanced house block, so you had privileges like a shower in your room,' Duff said. 'So for anyone who's been to prison, not having to shower communally is great, so in that sense she was living nice. This meant as well that she was not in general population, not on other house blocks where she could have been at risk. 'She was able to move freely around the prison, in between work and education. The whole time I was there I never saw anything happen to her. 'I also lived on this house block, so I would see her around the house block and I worked with her in the salon so quite a lot of my time was spent around her. Not that I really had conversations with her, only if it was purely to do with hairdressing. I'd never sat down and had a full blown conversation with her. 'To me, she almost carried herself as though she was the victim, came across really timid, tried to portray a sweetness but I didn't buy it. 'In my eyes, I believe she's a manipulator and I believe she did what she could while she was there to manipulate situations for her benefit.' Duff also claimed Hoare had a girlfriend while she was in prison, though relationships were not promoted, she said. Duff in a TikTok video where she gives her opinion on what Shauna Hoare was like in prison Hoare denied all knowledge that Matthews, pictured, had murdered his step-sister while she was in Becky's family home in St George 'They spent significant time with each other whilst we were unlocked. Obviously there were officers that would go in and check and make sure nothing was going on, but she was in a relationship,' she added. Duff claimed Hoare did a hairdressing course, gained a level two in beauty therapy and worked on the beauty side of the salon doing manicures, pedicures, eyebrows, and waxing. 'So she did have quite a trusted job because it was a higher banded job, so she was actually in a privileged position.' But Duff said she felt Hoare was 'fake' and that her behaviour wasn't genuine. 'I just think she's evil to the core to be honest with you,' she said. A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: 'We know this will be an incredibly difficult time for Becky Watts' loved ones and our heartfelt thoughts remain with them. 'It's untrue to suggest any preferential treatment was given - prisoners housed together are subject to the same regime of restrictions and opportunities.' Duff said she felt Hoare was 'fake' and that her behaviour wasn't genuine Hoare, who was pregnant at the time of Becky's murder, denied all knowledge that her then-boyfriend had murdered his step-sister while she was in Becky's family home in St George, loaded her body into the back of their car, drove it to their flat in Barton Hill and, over the course of the next few days, dismembered it. But a jury at Bristol Crown Court in October 2015 heard that the couple went on shopping sprees over the following days buying cling film, goggles and masks - all items used in the 'meticulous' process of packing up her body parts. Hoare searched 'do you want to hide a body' on YouTube the day after Becky was killed, but said it had been a parody of the Disney film, Frozen. When police searched the couple's home, they discovered a cluttered house although a clean bathroom, with no traces of Becky's DNA or blood. She was convicted of manslaughter, and later lost an appeal against her conviction and the length of her sentence. Tanya Watts, Becky's mother, recently revealed her fury at Hoare's release, saying: 'She's not even 30, she's got her whole life ahead of her and she's got a future, whereas when we go to talk to our daughter, we're talking to the ground.' A unique letter written by George Washington in which he says that God and Heaven supported American independence has gone on sale, after historians thought it lost. Written in October 1777, shortly after Washington heard about the first victory over British troops during the Revolutionary War, went on sale in Philadelphia yesterday. The auction house, Raab Collection, acquired it from descendants of its recipient Brigadier General James Potter. It had been in the possession of Potters descendants for nearly 250 years and is valued at $275,000. Potter was a colonial and revolutionary-era politician from Pennsylvania, that assumed important commands during the Revolutionary War. This letter is unique as it is the only one in which Washington is known to have mentioned Heaven during the war. This letter is unique as it is the only one in which Washington is known to have mentioned Heaven during the war It was written in October 1777, shortly after Washington heard about the first victory over British troops during the Revolutionary War The Battle of Saratoga, New York, was the first by revolutionary troops over the British Washington put pen-to-paper shortly after hearing about the outcome of the Battle of Saratoga, in October 1777, the first victory of revolutionary troops over the British. Jubilant, Washington wrote that this singular favour of Providence is to be received with thankfulness and the happy moment which Heaven has pointed out for the firm establishment of American Liberty. While the contents of the letter had been known to scholars, the original document was thought lost. Washington urged his fellow Americans to support independence in the letter, which was sent from near Philadelphia on October 18, 1777. 'This letter, in its beauty, draws together many of the threads of American experience: God, patriotism, victory, destiny,' said Nathan Raab, principal at The Raab Collection and author of The Hunt for History. 'Its discovery is exciting, and proof that Washington's words continue to inspire, he added. Written in October 1777, shortly after Washington found out about the outcome of the Battle of Saratoga, makes clear that he understood its importance The Raab Collection was unable to find any other such letter of Washington from that day as having. It was written shortly after Washington was defeated by British troops at the Battle of Germantown, near Philadelphia. His dejected mood was raised by information from Saratoga. Many historians consider the Battle of Saratoga a turning point in the war, and the language in the letter indicates that its importance was clear to Washington at the time. Beyond celebrating the battle and the revolutionary cause, Washington instructed Potter to continue working to disrupt British supply lines. A Bay Area babysitter has been accused of posting phonographic images of the child she was supposed to be watching on social media. Michelle Nicole Hidalgo, 28, was arrested in Antioch, California, on Friday and charged with seven felony counts of child pornography after officials served a warrant at her home. The Contra Costa County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force searched the home after they received a tip from an unnamed social media company about the child abuse materials allegedly shared by Hidalgo on their platform. Police say they seized 'equipment used in the production and distribution' of the child abuse footage. Hidalgo was still employed part-time by the victim's family at the time of her arrest last week. Michelle Nicole Hidalgo, 28, was arrested in Antioch, California , on Friday and charged with seven felony counts of child pornography District Attorney Diana Becton said authorities have not ruled out the possibility that there are other victims At her first court appearance on Wednesday, Hidalgo pleaded not guilty to charges including production of child pornography, distribution of child pornography, using a minor for unlawful sex acts, and committing lewd and lascivious acts against a child. Hidalgo remains in custody at the Contra Costa County Jail Martinez Detention Facility on $700,000 bail. KRON4 reported that the District Attorneys Office will argue to keep the nanny behind bars if the defense asks for bail to be lowered at her next court appearance. 'Why? Because she is a danger,' Deputy District Attorney Paul Graves said. Officials have not released additional details, including the age of the victim, who has only been described as a 'small child.' According to Hidalgo's Facebook profile, she is originally from Pacifica, California, and graduated from at Terra Nova High School. District Attorney Diana Becton said authorities have not ruled out the possibility that there are other victims. Anyone with information on the case has been asked to contact Senior Inspector Darryl Holcombe, at dholcombe@contracostada.org. Earlier this week, a Bay Area daycare worker was sentenced to 25 years in prison for possessing and distributing child pornography. Jace Wong, 26, was arrested in San Francisco in 2021 after an undercover officer linked him to a pornographic video of a girl between four and six years old. Meanwhile, in Massachusetts, a daycare worker has been accused of sending photos of naked children to a trans former politician. Lindsay Groves, 38, faces accusations that she took nude images of children aged three to five at the Creative Minds Early Learning Center in Tyngsboro, about 35 miles northwest of Boston. Prosecutors say the New Hampshire resident took the photos in a private bathroom during breaks before nap time and texted them to someone 'with whom she was previously in an intimate relationship' and shared 2,500 texts with. The investigation into Groves also led to the arrest of Stacie Laughton, 39, who is believed to be the first transgender person elected to a state Legislature in the nation. She is charged with distributing child pornography. The first heroin shooting gallery in the UK is to be launched in Scotlands biggest city at a cost of more than 2million a year. Addicts in Glasgow will be able to inject heroin and cocaine in a hygienic environment with medical staff on hand, without the threat of prosecution for possession of Class A drugs. First proposed in 2016 after an HIV outbreak in the city, the development of so-called safe consumption rooms has been embroiled in political wrangling between the Scottish and UK Governments. Earlier this month, Scotlands most senior law officer, Lord Advocate Dorothy Bain, KC, announced it would not be in the public interest to prosecute people using such a facility and the Home Office said it does not plan to interfere in the pilot. Drug user prepares heroin before injecting Inside the facility in Glasgow where addicts inject prescribed heroin Scotland's first addictions service treating patients with pharmaceutical grade heroin in Glasgow, the tray which is presented to the addict with the prescribed dose of heroin COPS TEXT 'DRUG - LINE MOBILES Police have texted thousands of people who may have been in contact with an alleged drug gang through so-called drug-lines offering them help to kick the habit. It comes after six people appeared in court on September 7 accused of selling drugs from Glasgow addresses. Saad Qayyum, 34, Ryan Carvill, 29, Ajaydeep Singh, 28, Jason Ahmed, 36, Muhammad Hanif, 53, and Kelly Lyon, 41, made no plea when they appeared in private at Glasgow Sheriff Court. They are due in court again at a later date. Officers from Greater Glasgows Serious Organised Crime Unit said they seized mobile devices which contained thousands of phone numbers. Police sent messages to the numbers, signposting agencies which offer support for drugs misuse. Detective Inspector Tom Carey said: Police Scotland takes a public health-led approach to the harm of drugs and we want to make people aware support is available. Advertisement The Scottish Government-funded project was approved in a virtual meeting yesterday. It will open in Hunter Street in the East End of the city, in the same building as an NHS drug treatment facility where the worst addicts are injected with pharmaceutical-grade heroin. But last night Dr Neil McKeganey, director of the Centre for Substance Use Research in Glasgow, said the scheme betrays the failure to address a drug problem in Scotland that has been decades in the making. He added: What Scotland should be doing is ensuring that all addicts have access to recovery services that can assist their journey away from drugs. The idea that we will tackle the problem of illegal drugs in Scotland by providing centres where these drugs can be used without fear of arrest is simply to provide one more boost to our nations drugs problem. Providing centres across Scotland where people can inject drugs they have purchased illegally on the streets is no different to providing state-sponsored support to the trade in illegal drugs. There were 1,051 deaths from drugs misuse in Scotland in 2022, down 279 on the previous year but the country remains Europes drug deaths capital. Glasgow City Integration Joint Board, which involves NHS and council officials, approved the shooting gallery plan. As she moved approval of the pilot, board chairman Rona Sweeney told the meeting: Im sure we all wish our city didnt need this facility, but the reality is that we do. Lord Advocate Dorothy Bain QC The report states: There is overwhelming international evidence which demonstrates that safer drug consumption facilities can improve the health, wellbeing and recovery of people who use the facility and reduce the negative impact that public injecting has on local communities and businesses. SNP councillor Allan Casey told the meeting: This is the first consumption room in the UK and all eyes are going to be on Glasgow and we need to make sure we get it right. Scottish Tory health spokesman Dr Sandesh Gulhane said his party are happy for a variety of potential solutions to be looked at including this pilot scheme but we still have serious reservations about how effective drug consumption rooms will be in reality. Home Secretary Suella Braverman told ITV: My view is its the wrong policy and I dont support the policy of drug consumption rooms. I dont believe they deal with the root cause of addiction and drug dependency. At Holyrood, First Minister Humza Yousaf said he very much welcomes the decision to approve the clinic. There was a time when exploiting oil and gas fields in the North Sea was welcomed by the public, politicians and industry. It was the oil boom of the 1980s, after all, that funded Britains economic boom and raised the standard of living of millions of Brits. But yesterdays announcement that regulators have given the go-ahead for up to 300million barrels of oil to be extracted from the Rosebank field, 80 miles to the north-west of Shetland, has infuriated campaigners and divided political leaders. The decision was morally obscene, according to the UKs only Green MP, Caroline Lucas, whereas Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said that it would help bring stability to the economy. Regulators have given the go-ahead for up to 300million barrels of oil to be extracted from the Rosebank field, 80 miles to the northwest of Shetland First Minister Humza Yousaf, is against the decision to extract oil and gas from Rosebank While Labour opposes new oil field exploration, Mr Starmer has vowed not to revoke any licences issued this side of the General Election. First Minister Humza Yousaf, whose party once campaigned for independence under the slogan Its Scotlands Oil, has expressed disappointment at the decision to grant Rosebank a licence and is concerned that the oil produced would end up being used in overseas markets instead of domestically. Its still Scotlands oil but neither Scotland nor anyone else should have it, it seems. But UK Government ministers insist that allowing the field to be exploited will benefit the economy particularly in Scotland while maintaining the countrys commitments to net zero by 2050. Rosebank could also spell a jobs bonanza, with an estimated 1,600 new jobs created during peak exploration. And in an era where the West has become over-dependent on Russian oil, what objections can seriously be raised about a new domestic source of black gold? Already environmental groups are threatening to mount a legal challenge to the decision to grant this new licence. But the transition from oil and gas to new, renewable forms of energy less damaging to the climate was never going to be swift or easy. Society has grown dependent on oil as well as the plastic that is produced from it over centuries, and however determined and sincere politicians aspirations to wean us from our addiction are, the road was never going to be a smooth one. Populist (and unpopular) protest movements like Extinction Rebellion have dominated headlines in the past few years with their campaigns of civil disobedience in an attempt to do what the ballot box has failed to do persuade politicians to comply with their demands that we stop using all oil and gas immediately. To these impatient young idealists, with their numerous gadgets and lifestyles that are completely dependent on oil-based technologies (where do they think the plastic components in their expensive iPhones come from?), action must happen now, without delay any other course of action will mean the early, grotesque and painful death of everyone on the planet. There has been no shortage of MPs and MSPs who are willing to worship at the altar of Greta Thunberg and to take to heart her warnings of Biblical apocalypse unless we change our ways. But most of our political and industrial leaders recognise that while the aim of net zero is one that we and the rest of the developed world must meet, doing so too quickly without proper preparation would be as disastrous as doing nothing at all. Claire Coutinho, the Energy Security Secretary, said yesterday: As the independent Climate Change Committee recognise, we will need oil and gas as part of that mix on the path to net zero and so it makes sense to use our own supplies from North Sea fields such as Rosebank. We will continue to back the UKs oil and gas industry to underpin our energy security, grow our economy and help us deliver the transition to cheaper, cleaner energy. Contrary to the faintly hysterical reaction that the announcement of the new licence has provoked, this is not all about lining the pockets of greedy business leaders and millionaire oil barons. The companies that own the rights to Rosebank the Norwegian energy giant Equinor and British company Ithaca Energy will have to hand over 75 per cent of their profits from the field to His Majestys Treasury every year until 2028. That includes a 40 per cent rate of corporation tax much higher than the standard 25 per cent rate that most UK businesses pay. And thats after the Government imposed a 35 per cent windfall tax on the oil and gas sector in 2022 as firms made huge profits following Russias invasion of Ukraine. So while fashionable critics of the oil industry and the wealth and jobs it creates complain about this new licence, there will be precious little complaint about the extra money that will be made available to the Government as a result of this decision money that will be used to fund the NHS, pensions, benefits and a range of government spending. Neither is Rosebank such a large field that its exploitation is likely to have a catastrophic impact on existing CO2 levels. It is small by global standards, even when compared with previous developments in UK waters. It is only a tenth of the size of Britains biggest ever oil field, Brent, and will produce only 8,400 tons of oil a day at its peak about 5 per cent of the UKs daily oil usage and only about 0.7 per cent of the amount of gas the UK uses daily. Condemnation of the Rosebank decision and regular demands that Britain cease immediately to use oil in all its forms risk being taken less seriously because of the inevitability and the frequency of their repetition. While the arrival of Rosebank oil and gas on the market is unlikely to result in large cuts to British energy bills, neither will it herald the end of life as we know it. The task facing all developed countries is not to reinvent their economies and transform society out of all recognition that is the demand of neo-Marxists who see climate change as no more than the latest, most convenient tool with which to attack capitalism but to manage the smooth, gradual and decisive transition to an economy that is no longer dependent on oil. A mad headlong rush to net zero in the next few years would have a cataclysmic impact on our standard of living. We are nowhere near the point where we can rely for all our energy needs on windmills and solar panels. That day may one day come we can but hope but in the meantime, if we are to maintain wages, our local and national services and generate enough tax to run the country, oil will have to play a vital role. We are regularly promised that the green industrial revolution in the near future will replace all those dirty, polluting oil-based jobs with new, clean and better paid ones. Again, that is a worthy aspiration, but there is precious little evidence that such jobs and the level of investment needed to make them a reality are anything other than a pipe dream yet. What Scotland and the rest of the country needs are real, actual jobs based on established industries with a track record of generating investment in our economy. Welcoming the Rosebank oil and gas field does not mean betraying the planet or the next generation; it means that we will be better prepared for the transition to a green economy at the right time. For 75 years it lay buried beneath a crop-covered field in Germany. Now a memorial monument has been built at the site of the wreckage to remember six RAF men, including Scottish pilot Andrew Brown, who were shot down and killed during the Second World War. They were the crew of the Stirling EE872, one of 605 bombers sent to attack the cities of Ludwigshafen and Mannheim in September 1943. The aircraft had dropped its payload and had turned for home when it was hit by a German night fighter. Only one member of the seven crew survived. But until recently the exact location of the crash site was unknown. Pilot Andrew Brown's plane was shot down over Germany in 1943 Three of the seven crewmen from left to right Andrew Brown, Harry Barnard and David Badcock Relatives of the six airmen who died when their Stirling bomber was shot down over Germany attended the unveiling of a memorial stone and plaque to mark the crash site A Stirling Bomber being loaded with ordnance during World war two Harry 'Barney' Bernard who was the seventh member of the crew and the only one to survive It was only when Dutch historian Erik Wieman was contacted in 2017 by a man who had witnessed the Stirling go down as a young boy that the wreckage was located to a farmers field in Ludwigshafen on the river Rhine. He also tracked down the families of the airmen, and yesterday relatives visited the site for the first time to mark the unveiling of a 8ft by 6ft memorial plaque. Alan Fraser, nephew of Aberdeenshire flight sergeant Brown, was unable to make the trip due to ill health. But he thanked the historian for his tremendous work. Through his own research, Mr Fraser discovered that his uncle, who was just 21 when he died, had feared the mission would be his last. He said: I found out that during his last leave home in 1943 he told my mother that he didnt think he would be coming back. Im not sure why he said that but he just seemed to know that he was not going to make it. Most of the metal from the RAF bomber was salvaged by the Nazis and recycled to aid the German war effort. Hundreds of parts were found of the Stirling EE872 bomber including the undercarriage, part of the fuselage and wings buried in a field in Germany But after securing permission to dig on the land, Mr Wieman found hundreds of parts of the aircraft including the undercarriage, part of the fuselage and wings. Experts were able to identify the exact spot where the aircraft came to rest as well as the trail from where it crashed on impact to where it broke up. Mr Wieman said: I think it is very important to know where this crash site was and remind ourselves of what happened here and why. When people walk by they wont just see a corn field they will see a war memorial which helps bring history to life. Flight sergeant Brown, and his colleagues Alexander Holms, David Badcock and Adrian Douglas, all from New Zealand, and Henry Saunders and Douglas Guest, both from London, lost their lives it he attack. Rear gunner Harry Bernard, from Cambridgeshire, was the only crew member who survived. The family of the 15-year-old girl stabbed to death as she made her way to school have paid tribute to the 'the light of our lives' and said their 'hearts were broken' by her 'senseless' death. Elianne Andam, a pupil at the Old Palace of John Whitgift private school, was attacked yesterday morning. Today her devastated family revealed her dream was to be a lawyer before she was robbed of a 'great future'. A tragic statement issued by the family described their 'beautiful' child Elianne as the 'light of our lives'. 'She was bright and funny, with many friends who all adored her,' it said. 'She was only 15, and had her whole life ahead of her, with hopes and dreams for the future. 'All those dreams have now been shattered. Our lives have fallen apart, along with that of our wider family.' Within 75 minutes of the incident, a 17-year-old boy was arrested in New Addington on suspicion of murder. Today police were given an extra 12 hours to quiz the suspect, who remains in custody at a south London police station. Elianne's aunt told MailOnline of their grief today as it emerged her mother is an NHS children's nurse who was paying for her daughter to go to a top school for a better life. A statement issued by the family described their 'beautiful' child Elianne as the 'light of our lives' Elianne, a pupil at the Old Palace of John Whitgift private school, was attacked at 8.30am yesterday as she got off the bus in Croydon This is the first picture of Elianne Andam, the 15-year-old schoolgirl stabbed in the neck in Croydon First responders leave tributes at the scene of the attack in Croydon Elianne's aunt Marian told MailOnline of their grief today as it emerged her mother is an NHS children's nurse who was paying for her daughter to go to a top school for a better life Police forensics put a rose in an evidence tube. The flowers were said to have been carried by the killer, along with a zombie knife the size of a small sword Cards left for Elianne at the scene of the stabbing yesterday - less than a mile from the school gates The victim was a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift School in Croydon Police officers laying flowers at the scene and taking a moment to reflect An aunt, who only gave her name as Marian, said: 'You just can't comprehend the heartbreak of the last 24 hours, how Elianne went to school and never came home'. A row spilt out of the number 60 bus outside the Whitgift Shopping Centre close to East Croydon station on Wednesday morning. A teenage boy dressed in black stabbed the schoolgirl in the neck and chest with a 'sword-like' zombie knife when she stood in his way after her friend rejected his flowers and love letter before he was arrested on a tram an hour later. Speaking at Elianne's mother's home in Croydon, her aunt said: 'She wanted to be a lawyer, she went to private school paid for by my sister and had a great future ahead of her. She was a lovely girl, she loved doing her hair, had beautiful natural hair, and she really loved gymnastics. 'We're a big family and we are all here for our sister, to support her. We're a big family this has left us absolutely devastated. My sister is not feeling good, this only happened yesterday. It hasn't sunk in yet, it's a tragedy.' A bus driver and passers-by battled to save her. But Elianne died on the pavement just minutes after the attack - less than a mile from her 20,000-a-year elite independent school. James Watkins, of Croydon crime prevention group Mainzworld, said the teenager's family rushed to the scene but she had already died. 'They were unable to say goodbye,' he said. A mother who had just dropped her children at school witnessed the scene moments after the attack. The woman, from Streatham in south London, said she saw police officers take aside a bus driver who 'looked like he was almost holding' the 15-year-old victim. She said: 'I was driving past when I noticed that somebody was lying down on the floor. 'I drove round, parked up and tried to get as close as I could. Two young girls were saying it was a young lady and she had been stabbed in the neck. 'I haven't really slept properly, because I still have that image of her lying there.' Elianne died on the pavement just minutes after the attack - less than a mile from her school First responders arrive to leave tributes at the scene of the attack in Croydon Police officers pay tribute with bunches of flowers after the 15-year-old schoolgirl's death More than 40 bunches of flowers have been laid close to where the 15-year-old was stabbed to death. One card said: 'Rest in peace angel condolences to your family at this very sad time.' Another said: 'Rest in peace little princess so sad your life is taken away at your prime. You have touched my soul.' Filomena Merola laid flowers by the police tape on Thursday morning. The 57-year-old, who grew up in Croydon, said: 'That young girl could not even go to school without being cut down. 'We all have young teenagers in our lives, in our families. It has just struck a chord.' A youth worker said he understood the boy tried to give a bouquet of flowers to his former girlfriend on the bus but tensions flared when they stepped off the red double-decker, which was packed with commuters and other schoolchildren. The friend is said to have rejected the flowers and had also tried to return a bag of possessions following the break-up. The victim stepped in to protect her and was stabbed in the neck by the teen 'wearing all black'. Chevanice Thomas's friend witnessed the girl being attacked. She said: 'He gave her the flowers and she threw them away. Her friends all dispersed when she went down. After that, the boy apparently stabbed her, blood gushing out and the police put pressure on it. She died on the spot.' The suspect, whose weapon was described as being 'as big as a sword', then reportedly fled the scene, chased by brave passengers who had also been on the bus. An hour after the attack, officers arrested the 17-year-old boy five miles away on a tram in New Addington at 9.45am. Metropolitan Police Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain said police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident. Former Met Chief Supt Simon Ovens said: 'Police have got to get to grips with young people carrying knives. 'There has been a huge drop in stop-and-search in the last ten years. Police are scared of stopping young people in the street because of the risk of complaints. 'Youngsters are therefore prepared to carry knives because they know the chance of being found with a weapon is so low. 'As well as carrying knives they are prepared to use them and never think about the consequences for their victim or themselves.' Flowers at the murder scene in Croydon today as a 17-year-old boy remains in custody Mourners lay flowers and tributes to the schoolgirl in a crime described by police as 'every parent's nightmare' Forensic scientists were seen collecting blood stained red roses, which the killer was allegedly trying to give to her friend Yesterday, forensics officers were seen removing a handwritten love note from the scene Security worker Victor Asare described the knife as 'black, thin and about a foot long'. He said: 'A lot of people came, everyone came off the bus. [The suspect] ran away. Everybody was crying and screaming. The girl was on the floor. 'We tried to catch him and a lot of people tried to save the girl. I was so shocked, I was shaken. It's somebody's daughter. 'The boy wore a black blazer, the girl wore green. It looked like the girl didn't want the boy to come closer. 'I finished work but couldn't sleep, so came back, I wanted to see if the girl was OK.' Anthony King, chairman of the My Ends project said: 'They were heading to school on the bus this morning. All of them were scheduled to be at school by quarter to nine. 'Their school is ten minutes away from here and sadly the young lady didn't make it.' The bus driver and passengers desperately tried to save the young girl, as another schoolgirl reportedly screamed 'that's my best friend', as she tried to push through to see Elianne. Her family, who had been called to the scene, rushed down to the bus stop but she died at 9.21am - before they could say goodbye. Forensic scientists at the scene yesterday were seen collecting blood stained red roses and a love note which read: 'I love you so so much and I [have] never met someone with a better smile and better eyes than what you have. Your [sic] special girl... princess.' The young girl died at the scene after being stabbed on her way to school Dozens of floral tributes and cards have been laid at the scene near the girl's school Witnesses said the boy had tried to give Elianne's friend flowers but she replied that she 'didn't want to go out with him any more' One woman who laid flowers said: 'We all have young teenagers in our lives, in our families. It has just struck a chord.' The father of a schoolfriend said: 'My daughter is friends with the girls. She's devastated about what happened. It's horrible.' A mother of two, who wanted to be named only as Bridget, said: 'I saw them resuscitating her. The driver was holding her, and a lady. The emergency services were already here.' She said two other schoolgirls, believed to be the victim's friends, were trying to get through the police cordon but were held back. Michael Fyffe, who witnessed the attack, told Sky News: 'There were loads of people who had just come off the bus and then I think two of the girl's friends came out and they were trying to rush over towards the body. 'So myself and a few of the other people tried to hold her back and just say, 'Look, let them try and help your friend', and she was just screaming, 'Is my friend dead? She's my best friend'.' Staff at the Leonardo Hotel on Wellesley Road, were among those at the scene. Beldine Kutima, who works there, told The Telegraph: 'One of our duty managers went to get the bus, but she came back in screaming and grabbing towels from the back room. 'She ran out there with bin bags and towels. She was crying and in shock.' One card wrote 'why?' before wishing condolences to the teenager's family Another read: 'Little princess. So sad your life was taken away at your prime. You have touched my soul' Forensic officers walk past the scene, which features several privacy screens A forensic investigator puts flowers into a container at the scene near the Whitgift shopping centre in Croydon A man delivers two bunches of flowers to the scene where the girl was killed yesterday Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley at the scene in Croydon yesterday afternoon Mr Watkins said: 'It's disgusting, when we look at these children being killed that are from the borough it hurts you in the heart. These could be our kids, it's devastating.' Tributes have poured in for the 'jovial' and 'much loved' teen who had a 'bright future ahead of her' - expected to pass all her GCSEs later this school year. Mr King added: 'The [victim's] family and extended family are devastated. I can't articulate the sound of the tears and genuine heartbreak that took place this morning. '[The girl] was going to pass her GCSEs, she had a bright future ahead of her. An absolutely incredible young lady, very articulate. One of the young people said she was jovial and very funny.' Speaking to journalists at the scene, Metropolitan Police Chief Superintendent Brittain said officers were not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident. 'This is every parent's worst nightmare, and I know the officers who responded this morning, along with our emergency service colleagues, are devastated at the victim's death,' he said. Speaking to journalists yesterday afternoon, Chief Superintendent Brittain said officers arrived within two minutes of being called and gave the suspect's age as 17 Privacy screens have been set up around the scene of the stabbing in Croydon, south London 'This is an emotion I share and I know people across Croydon will be feeling the same. 'The victim's family has been informed and our thoughts are with them at what must be an incredibly difficult time. 'We carried out urgent inquiries to find the suspect and within 75 minutes of the incident happening a 17-year-old boy was arrested in New Addington. He remains in custody and will be questioned by detectives. 'We remain in the early stages of our investigation, however based on what we know so far we believe that we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this offence. 'From our initial inquiries, we believe the suspect may have known the victim. However, we're not in a position to release the victim's identity at this time.' A spokesman for the Old Palace of John Whitgift School said: 'We are deeply shocked by the senseless and tragic death of our much-loved and valued friend and pupil. 'It will take some time for the Old Palace community to come to terms with this terrible news, and we will offer support to our pupils as we try to do so. 'Above all, we send our love and deepest sympathies to the girl's family at this unimaginably distressing time. Yesterday afternoon a white tent could be seen within a police cordon next to the double-decker bus. A forensic investigator onboard the bus where the argument is believed to have started Privacy screens and a tent outside the Whitgift centre in Croydon while a bus sits beside the pavement nearby Locals say they saw a group of schoolchildren getting off the No 60 bus outside the Whitgift Centre They said a row between the girl and boy - who were both in school uniforms - 'spilled out' onto a busy street with Croydon MP Sarah Jones attended the police press conference alongside Croydon mayor Jason Perry. Ms Jones said: 'I'm heartbroken that a child in my town has been killed on her way to school and I cannot imagine the grief that her family will be going through at this time. 'I want to thank the police and the ambulance services for trying so hard to save her life. They run into danger and I know they will be suffering today, too. 'I want to repeat the request from the police that if anybody has any information please do get in touch. 'We all hold our children close and our community will take time to grieve but for today we are just thinking of this young girl and her family. I'm so sorry.' Mr Perry added: 'We all personally feel devastated by the events that have happened here in Croydon this morning and the tragic loss of such a young life. 'The community are feeling that hurt right now and we will do everything we can to support the community through such a very difficult time.' Met Police commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said tonight: 'The senseless murder of a 15-year-old girl on her way to school is impossible to comprehend. 'It was moving and humbling to meet many members of the exceptional Croydon community who have come together in support of a family now dealing with the most unimaginable grief. 'The commitment of so many from the local community is inspiring. A powerful partnership between charitable groups, faith and community leaders, the local authority, the wider public and our officers has delivered so much work across the borough. They have collectively saved many lives from knife crime. 'Many are shocked and hurting. They care deeply and it's this passion which has made Croydon a safer place and will continue to in the future. 'I spoke to officers who, with members of the public, were among the first on scene with colleagues trying to save this young girl's life and have since supported her family and friends. Through diligent work by them all an early arrest was made and our major crime team now continue to investigate the events leading up to this awful attack.' London Mayor Sadiq Khan told Greatest Hits Radio London: 'My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family of the 15-year-old child who has been stabbed in Croydon. 'I've been in touch with the commissioner [Sir Mark Rowley] and we are in touch with the police. 'It's heartbreaking. An arrest has been made of another teenager in relation to this matter. 'There were other people present and I'd encourage them to contact the police. If they are worried about the anonymity they can ring Crimestoppers. 'It's really important people come forward and support the police to make sure justice occurs for this poor girl's family.' Now DailyMail.com can reveal photos of the charred basement where Billingsley is believed to have attacked the couple one week prior to LaPere's murder Jason Billingsley, 32, was apprehended on Wednesday by cops at a train station around 30 miles from where LaPere, 26, was found bludgeoned to death This is the charred basement where the prime suspect in the Pava LaPere killing is thought to have raped and set fire to a defenseless mom and her partner one week earlier. Jason Billingsley, 32, was apprehended on Wednesday by cops at a train station around 30 miles from where LaPere, 26, was found bludgeoned to death on the roof of her luxury apartment building in the city's Mount Vernon neighborhood. Billingsley was tracked by law enforcement to the MARC Train Station on Laurel-Bowie Road in Bowie, Prince George's County, at 11.10pm and was taken into custody without incident. DailyMail.com previously revealed that detectives are probing links between Pava's slaying and an unsolved arson attack and sex assault on a young couple that took place one-week earlier in nearby west Baltimore. The suspect in the earlier incident is believed to have posed as a maintenance man to talk his way inside the couple's townhouse on September 19 before tying them both up in a basement bedroom. He raped the young woman at knifepoint as her partner looked on, powerless to intervene, then doused the room with gas and fled, according to accounts from both a police source and a neighbor. DailyMail.com previously revealed that detectives are probing links between Pava LePere's slaying and an unsolved arson attack and sex assault on a young couple. Images obtained exclusively by DailyMail.com show the blackened shell where the horrifying rape and arson unfolded Images obtained exclusively by DailyMail.com show the windows boarded up at the home where Billingsley is believed to have raped a young woman at knifepoint as her partner looked on, then doused the room with gas and fled Local resident Tyree Nickerson, 46, tells DailyMail.com that the man and woman were 'left to die' 'My understanding is that he just left them to die,' said local resident Tyree Nickerson, 46. 'I feel terrible for what they experienced. She is such a beautiful woman, friendly and vibrant, and he tormented and violated her.' The incident began when firefighters responded at 9:24am to smoke billowing from a basement in Edmondson Avenue, just a block from one of Billingsly's previous homes. The Baltimore PD said a man and a woman, both aged 26, were rescued but had suffered burns and 'multiple injuries'. A five-year-old child was found upstairs suffering from smoke inhalation. A police source told DailyMail.com the attacker had initially targeted the woman, sexually assaulting her and slashing her throat with a knife. The child is recovering but the two adults were left in critical condition, police said. Neither have been named. 'A guy knocked on the door and acted as if he was a maintenance man,' said Nickerson, who arrived home in the aftermath and says he spoke at length with the victims' landlord. 'He got in the house, he tied the guy up, then he raped the girl in front of him. After he finished raping the girl he just started dousing the room and lit it on fire. 'Every is horrified. We want to know what he said to get in there in case he tries it again.' Nickerson added: 'I have to believe he has a gun. You can't tie two people up just with a knife, that doesn't make any sense.' Billingsley has a criminal record dating back to 2009, and was sentenced to 30 years - but released after only nine The underground bedroom is strewn with scorched clothes, charred furniture and wrecked electrical items. At the center is a bed covered with ash and debris 'Every is horrified. We want to know what he said to get in there in case he tries it again,' Nickerson added as he showed DailyMail.com the building Images obtained exclusively by DailyMail.com show the blackened shell where the horrifying rape and arson unfolded. Today, the dingy underground bedroom is strewn with scorched clothes, charred furniture and wrecked electrical items. At the center is a bed covered with ash and debris. There are several lengths of charred wire on the floor and the television is melted into a black, plastic blob. The three-floor building remains boarded up and uninhabited. Police issued an arrest warrant for Billingsley Tuesday along with a stark warning to the public that the convicted sex offender has a warped history of rape and violence. He faces charges of first-degree murder, assault and reckless endangerment in the killing of young entrepreneur Pava, a rising star in tech who made the prestigious Forbes '30 Under 30' list. She was found dead Monday morning at her Baltimore apartment with blunt force injuries that one hardened officer described to DailyMail.com as 'absolutely brutal some of the worst I've seen.' Pava Marie LaPere, 26, was killed by blunt force trauma inside her luxury Mount Vernon, Baltimore apartment , and her body was found by police on Monday LaPere was found dead on the roof of her building, which is the former site of the Congress Hotel, where one bedroom apartments rent for $1,500 a month Announcing the warrant for Billingsley's capture, Acting Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley said the 'repeat violent offender' is capable of raping and killing again. Issuing a further update on the manhunt Wednesday, Baltimore PD announced a $6,000 reward for tips on Billingsley's whereabouts and confirmed he is a suspect in the rape and arson incident. 'Through the course of the investigation, BPD can confirm that Billingsley is wanted in connection to an attempted murder, arson and rape that occurred on Sept. 19, 2023, in the 800 block of Edmondson Avenue,' the statement said. 'Evidence gathered through the course of the initial investigation by detectives, was able to connect the suspect Billingsley to the homicide of Pava LaPere and the Sept.19 case. 'Multiple warrants have been issued for Billingsley and detectives continue to work with all of our law enforcement partners in apprehending him. 'Additionally, detectives are now reviewing all cases since October, 2022, to the present day in order to determine any other connections.' DailyMail.com previously revealed that Billingsley posed as a Good Samaritan to strangle and rape a woman at knifepoint in 2013. Billingsley approached his victim, who was in her 20s at the time, as she was sitting in the street in the wake of a 'verbal argument' with her boyfriend. The stranger introduced himself as Jason, asked the distressed woman, who is now 35, what was wrong before offering her a place to stay for the night. But when they got to the location he told her they would have to climb through an unlocked window as he had lost his keys, according to a court filings. 'They both sat on a bed and talked. She states that 'Jason' told her he wanted to have sex with her. And at that time she told him that she wanted to leave,' the complaint states. 'Jason then struck her on the face and placed both his hands around her neck. He began to apply pressure around her neck. He told her she was going to do what he said or he was going to shoot her.' Billingsley was described by the commissioner of Baltimore police as a repeat violent offender The victim did not see a gun during the June 23, 2013, assault but 6ft 4, 305lb Billingsley did produce a knife as he began ripping off her clothes. 'He told her to get on her knees in front of him. She stated that she complied and got on her knees in fear he would harm her.' After forcing the petrified woman to perform oral sex Billingsley stole $53 from her wallet, the complaint states. As he left the house, he growled: 'You better not tell anyone about this. My aunt is a police officer. Know one (sic) will believe you.' The victim suffered bruising to her neck, lips and left eye but was able to identify Billinglsey from a photo lineout. He was hit with charges including attempted first-degree rape, false imprisonment and assault and subsequently jailed for 30 years, with 16 years of that suspended and five years of supervised probation. With good behavior credits he was able to walk free in October last year despite having an original release date of 2043. Billingsley committed his first assault in 2009 at age 18 before committing a second in 2011. He served a two-year prison sentence for the second attack. Aussies are urged to be on high alert for the rapid rise of a potentially deadly but little-known respiratory virus very few have heard of until now. Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases are running rampant across NSW, with at least 1,168 people infected in just one week ending September 16. HPMV was discovered in 2001, although evidence suggests it had been circulating for many decades before it was formally identified. As with similar viruses, it is spread through respiratory droplets. While the respiratory virus will be similar to having a cold for a lot of Aussies, some are at risk of developing more serious illnesses. Symptoms to watch out for include nasal congestion, coughs, shortness of breath and a fever. Complications from HMPV can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia, and can be fatal, especially among those who are immunocompromised, such as people with cancer. Cases have soared from 648 at the start of the month to 1,008 a fortnight ago before reaching 1,168 infections last week. Only influenza was more prevalent across than HMPV in the week ending September 16, which was detected in 1,424 people. Health experts fear HMPV cases will continue to rise with the virus prevalent in spring. Aussies with cold and flu symptoms are urged to wear a masks in crowded public amid a rise of Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections Children under the age of five, the elderly and those who are immunocompromised are most vulnerable to the virus. Young children who suffer from asthma are among those at grave risk. 'It can go beyond the upper respiratory tree and go down to the lungs and cause either bronchitis or pneumonia, and that's when kids get into trouble and end up in hospital,' GP Dr Ginni Mansberg told Sunrise. 'In a season of metapneumovirus, we can have quite a large proportion of the kids in hospital having that particular virus.' She added children who are suffering from breathing difficulties or dehydrated because they can't keep their fluids down due to coughing so much should be in hospital, regardless of whether or not they have HMPV. 'What we're finding is that children prone to getting things on their airways are likely to run into trouble with pneumonia and bronchitis,' Dr Mansberg said. 'Sometimes other kids, but mostly those between six months and five years of age, running into trouble with this. A lot of them, it will just be like a cold.' 'The elderly and people immunocompromised can run into the same problems with something that might cause a cold to you or I, but could make them quite sick.' She added that there are no anti-viral drugs to treat HMPV nor a vaccine, unlike for the flu and Covid. 'It would be great to combine them all eventually and have one vaccine, but right now, we don't even have one for HMPV,' she said. HMPV infections in NSW have soared from 648 at the start of the month to 1,008 a fortnight ago before reaching 1,168 infections last week A potentially deadly virus that few people even know exists is surging in Australia, with 1,168 people infected last week in NSW alone. Two women are pictured wearing face masks University of Sydney senior researcher and virologist John-Sebastian Eden added Aussies were unlikely to know of the virus until they're diagnosed. 'It's definitely one of the viruses that you probably don't know about until you just happen to have that test where you see a report that says, you had HMPV, you might have thought it was flu or Covid,' Dr Eden told the ABC. 'There's no specific drugs for these viruses. So it's just managing the symptoms until the immune system kicks in and takes care of the virus.' Former Australian deputy chief health officer Dr Nick Coatsworth played down fears about the new HMPV surge. 'It's not dangerous, but it has a long name,' the Today health expert said. 'If I can reassure people out there, we'd get it every year or second year,' he said. 'I know there's a spike in cases (but) I reckon we've become a little too obsessed about the sort of viruses that are circulating.' Health authorities urged those with HMPV to stay home if they have cold or flu symptoms, wash and sanitise hands regularly and wear a mask in crowded, indoor places. Furious families of the victims of the Surfside condo collapse have slammed plans for a ritzy new skyscraper on the site where 98 people were killed. The design for the 45-unit luxury condo in place of Champlain Towers South proposes to collect the building's trash near the entrance of a memorial park. Relatives branded the proposal 'insulting' to those who died in the horrifying tragedy two years ago, saying it minimizes how the deceased will be honored. Trucks will be rumbling over the site of tragedy with garbage collected nearby, they warned. The proposed development, featuring 57 condominiums and two pools, was announced despite the exact cause of the collapse having not been determined. The memorial park, which the developer has promised to build, will not be finished until the condo project is constructed, the Washington Post reported. Victims' relatives slammed plans for a ritzy oceanfront skyscraper on the site where 98 killed in the sudden collapse of Florida building two years ago DAMAC International released two renderings of the possible design in June when the exact cause of the collapse had not been determined Families called the proposal 'insulting' to those who died in the horrifying tragedy, stating that it minimizes how the deceased will be honored. People attended a vigil (pictured) in honor of residents of a partially collapsed residential building in June 2021 'We have nothing on the site of the collapse, and we don't know what we're getting on 88th Street because they keep cutting it down to benefit the developer,' said Martin Langesfeld, whose sister and brother-in-law, Nicole Langesfeld and Luis Sadovnic, were killed in the collapse. Families of the victims and former commissioners vehemently opposed the design that the Town Commision now seems ready to approve. The debate is centered around a block of 88th Street near the site of collapse at 8777 Collins Avenue. The former Town Commision called to restrict traffic last year for a memorial park and pedestrian plaza. 'I was desperate to protect the families because, you know, my friends died there,' said former Town Commissioner Eliana Salzhauer. 'Everybody knew somebody who died there.' But the board now is ready to allow DAMAC International, a Dubai-based developer, to place a loading dock entrance on 88th Street and reclaim the area. Opponents suggested collusion. A wide-circulated bar photo shows the planning and zoning board chair, Caroline Baumel, smiling while seated on the laps of Vice Mayor Jeffrey Rose and David Forbes, another board member. Baumel and Forbes said the claims are disgusting, adding that they only met casually for drinks. 'At no time did any of us discuss anything on this agenda, past agendas or upcoming agendas,' Forbes said angrily at the board meeting last month. Former commissioner Salzhauer got into a heated debate with Mayor Shlomo Danzinger this month. 'You want me to give feedback on a presentation that hasn't happened yet?' she asked. 'You call yourselves representatives of the people. You are serving yourself.' 'They keep cutting it down to benefit the developer,' said Martin Langesfeld (pictured), whose sister and brother-in-law, Nicole Langesfeld and Luis Sadovnic, were killed in the collapse. The exact cause of the collapse has still not been determined after two years It comes amid concerns from a structural engineer that the swimming pool deck may have caved in first and brought down the rest of the building with it Florida transportation officials said they have not given guidance on the construction, 'We're basically on a blind curve,' said Jeffery Rossely, DAMAC's senior vice president for concepts and design. But he maintains the company is following the state guidelines. East Oceanside Development, LLC, associated with DAMAC, bought the property for $120million a year after the tragical collapse. DAMAC argues that if large moving trucks use a loading dock on Collins Avenue, as critics oppose, it could pose a traffic hazard due to the sharp angle of the state road at the site. 'It's a difficult issue because there's the emotional aspect to it,' Surfside Mayor Danzinger told ABC News in June when the developer released two possible designs for the property. He added that the town 'can't deny a plan unless there's a legal reason.' The father of stabbing victim Damilola Taylor declared 'society has broken down' after a 15-year-old girl was allegedly murdered on the streets of Croydon by a jilted schoolboy. Richard Taylor, whose son Damilola was knifed to death in Peckham in 2000 aged just 10, told The Sun: 'What is a boy doing carrying a knife like that at 8.30am? 'There is something very wrong with a society when a girl of 15 is stabbed to death on her way to school. 'Society has broken down,' he said. The victim, who was a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift School in Croydon, was last night named locally as Eliyanna. She was stabbed at 8.30am yesterday less than a mile away from the school gates and left to die in the street as the suspect fled the scene. Damilola Taylor, ten, was fatally stabbed in the thigh in Peckham, southwest London, in November 2000 while walking home from the library after school Damilola's father Richard Taylor (pictured) said 'society has broken down' after news broke that a 15-year-old girl had been fatally stabbed in Croydon The victim, who as a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift School in Croydon, was last night named locally as Eliyanna. She was stabbed at 8.30 am - less than a mile away from the school gates In Croydon, the schoolgirl's distraught friends and family were yesterday said to be reeling from the tragedy Police forensic officers remove evidence at the scene of yesterday's fatal stabbing The death of Damilola in 2000 at the hands of 13-year-old Ricky Preddie and his brother Danny, 12, shocked the nation. Who was Damilola Taylor? The schoolboy who moved to Britain for a better life Ten-year-old Damilola Taylor had moved to Britain from Nigeria a few months before he was jabbed in the thigh with a broken beer bottle by a gang of youths as he walked home from the local library after school. The youngster was found bleeding to death in a stairwell near his home in Peckham, south London, in November 2000, where local workmen tried to save his life. It took six years and three trials to identify and convict the killers. Danny and Ricky Preddie, members of the Young Peckham Boys gang, were found guilty of manslaughter and sentenced to eight years at the trial at the Old Bailey in August 2006. Danny was released from prison early in September 2011 after serving five years of his sentence. Ricky Preddie was first released in September 2010, but recalled to custody in March 2011 after returning to Peckham from his west London bail hostel in breach of his licence conditions. Advertisement Both brothers were jailed eight years for manslaughter in 2006. In Croydon, the schoolgirl's distraught friends and family were yesterday said to be reeling from the tragedy. It was previously claimed that the girl had been attacked after she 'refused to go out' with the boy and 'rejected his offers of flowers', but it witnesses have now said he was in fact trying to speak with her friend. Community worker James Watkins said: 'I spoke to the family this morning. They're devastated and I think more importantly are in shock. I don't think it's real to them yet. Unfortunately the family were not able to arrive on time.' The bus driver and a passenger desperately tried to save the teenager's life but she died at the scene at 9.21am. Officers arrested a 17-year-old boy in nearby New Addington at 9.45am. Those who knew Eliyanna said she had a bright future ahead of her, on track to pass all of her GCSES later in the school year. Anthony King, chair of the My Ends organisation which works with the Met Police in Croydon said: 'The victim was absolutely incredible with a very bright future. A very comedic young lady. 'The word I think that was used was jovial. She was on track to pass all of her GCSEs. She was very articulate.' Mr Watkins, who works at the youth prevention and intervention programmes at Mainz World, added: 'It's disgusting, when we look at these children being killed that are from the borough it hurts you in the heart. These could be our kids, it's devastating.' Amongst those who witnessed the stabbing were two girls, said to be the victims best friends. Mr King added: 'Two 15 year old girls were absolutely devastated by witnessing their very close friend being stabbed. They're still being interviewed by police.' Michael Fyffe, who witnessed the attack, told Sky News: 'I turned around and could see that someone was trying to resuscitate her. Police at the scene of the fatal stabbing behind the Whitgift Shopping Centre The victim, who as a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift School in Croydon, was last night named locally as Eliyanna A forensic investigator puts flowers into a container at the scene near the Whitgift shopping centre in Croydon Flowers laid by wellwishers at the scene of a fatal stabbing 'There were loads of people who had just come off the bus and then I think two of the girl's friends came out and they were trying to rush over towards the body. 'So myself and a few of the other people tried to hold her back and just say, "Look let them try and help your friend's" and she was just screaming, "Is my friend dead? She's my best friend".' Yesterday, forensic officers were seen removing a bunch of roses and a handwritten love note from the scene. Metropolitan Police Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain said police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident. Floral tributes and card laid at the scene in Croydon, south London Witnesses said the boy had tried to give the girl flowers but she replied that she 'didn't want to go out with him anymore' A forensic officer picks up the bunch of flowers from the scene of the fatal stabbing on Wellesley Road Yesterday, forensics officers were seen removing a handwritten love note from the scene Forensic officers walk past the scene, which features several privacy screens Old Palace of John Whitgift School is a selective independent day school for girls aged three to 18. It is consistently ranked as one the best in London and is a sister school to Whitgift School for Boys. It is not yet clear which school the boy attended. One witness who asked not to be identified, said: 'There were about seven or eight children who got off a bus which stopped outside the Whitgift Centre. 'There was a young girl and young boy arguing. He had flowers with him and they were arguing about the girl breaking up with him yesterday.' Floral tributes to the young girl and the family began to build up this evening. A note attached to some flowers read: 'RIP, beautiful, Forever Young taken too soon. 'Thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends. God bless.' Someone else on the same note had added: 'Sorry, we live in this crazy world, this makes no sense. Fly high up there, my mummy will look after you.' Another heartfelt note read: 'RIP little princess, so sad your life is taken away at your prime. You have touched my soul.' Speaking to journalists at the scene, Metropolitan Police Chief Superintendent Andy Britain said officers were not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident. Speaking to journalists this afternoon, Chief Superintendent Brittain said officers arrived within two minutes of being called and gave the suspect's age as 17 'This is every parent's worst nightmare, and I know the officers who responded this morning, along with our emergency service colleagues, are devastated at the victim's death,' he said. 'This is an emotion I share and I know people across Croydon will be feeling the same. 'The victim's family has been informed and our thoughts are with them at what must be an incredibly difficult time. 'We carried out urgent inquiries to find the suspect and within 75 minutes of the incident happening a 17-year-old boy was arrested in New Addington. He remains in custody and will be questioned by detectives. 'We remain in the early stages of our investigation, however based on what we know so far we believe that we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this offence. 'From our initial inquiries, we believe the suspect may have known the victim. However, we're not in a position to release the victim's identity at this time.' A spokesman for the Old Palace of John Whitgift School said: 'We are deeply shocked by the senseless and tragic death of our much-loved and valued friend and pupil. Privacy screens have been set up around the scene of the stabbing in Croydon, south London The number 60 bus remains behind the police cordon, where forensics officers are carrying out inquiries The location of the stabbing is shown in the map above. The 60 route bus was heading towards Streatham station Yesterday, the Met said officers were on the scene of the stabbing within two minutes 'It will take some time for the Old Palace community to come to terms with this terrible news, and we will offer support to our pupils as we try to do so. 'Above all, we send our love and deepest sympathies to the girl's family at this unimaginably distressing time. Chevanice Thomas, 28, who works on the nearby Landsdown Building site, said her friend saw a group of schoolchildren and adults running from the scene immediately after the stabbing at around 8.30am this morning. 'My friend said there was people with their children running everywhere,' she said. 'The only person who stayed was the bus driver. A lot of people got out their vehicles and started running. 'My friend said they were off the bus, talking, the boy and the girl. The boy gave her flowers, but she didn't want anything to do with him. Then he got violent and stabbed her. My friend said the knife was like a sword.' This afternoon, a white tent could be seen within a police cordon next to the double-decker bus. A mother-of-two, who asked to be named only as Bridget, said: 'I was on the bus before and came off and walked back down, I saw them resuscitating her. 'The driver was holding her, and a lady. The emergency services were already here when I walked back.' A forensic investigator onboard the bus where the argument is believed to have started Locals say they saw a group of schoolchildren getting off the No 60 bus outside the Whitgift Centre Privacy screens and a tent outside the Whitgift centre in Croydon while a bus sits beside the pavement nearby She said two other schoolgirls, believed to be the victim's friends, were trying to get back through the police cordon but were held back. Victor Asare was on a bus on the way home from a night shift as a security worker when he said he saw a boy in a black blazer stab a girl in the neck with a knife which was 'black, thin and about a foot long'. The 50-year-old said: 'The boy wore a black blazer, the girl wore green. It looked like the girl didn't want the boy to come closer.' He then described the boy stabbing the girl in the neck with a black knife. 'A lot of people came, everyone came off the bus,' he said. '[The boy] ran away. Everybody was crying and screaming. The girl was on the floor. 'We tried to catch him and a lot of people tried to save the girl. I was so shocked, I was shaken. It's somebody's daughter. 'I finished work but couldn't sleep, so came back, I wanted to see if the girl was OK.' Croydon MP Sarah Jones attended the police press conference alongside Croydon mayor Jason Perry. Ms Jones said: 'I'm heartbroken that a child in my town has been killed on her way to school and I cannot imagine the grief that her family will be going through at this time. 'I want to thank the police and the ambulance services for trying so hard to save her life. They run into danger and I know they will be suffering. 'I want to repeat the request from the police that if anybody has any information please do get in touch. 'We all hold our children close and our community will take time to grieve... we are just thinking of this young girl and her family. I'm so sorry.' Transport for London (TfL) has diverted its 60, 407, and 455 routes due to the incident Police cars surrounded the parked bus in Croydon shortly after the attack Mr Perry added: 'We all personally feel devastated by the events that have happened here in Croydon this morning and the tragic loss of such a young life. 'The community are feeling that hurt right now and we will do everything we can to support the community through such a very difficult time.' Met Police commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said: 'The senseless murder of a 15-year-old girl on her way to school is impossible to comprehend. 'It was moving and humbling to meet many members of the exceptional Croydon community who have come together in support of a family now dealing with the most unimaginable grief. 'The commitment of so many from the local community is inspiring. A powerful partnership between charitable groups, faith and community leaders, the local authority, the wider public and our officers has delivered so much work across the borough. They have collectively saved many lives from knife crime. 'Many are shocked and hurting. They care deeply and it's this passion which has made Croydon a safer place and will continue to in the future. 'I spoke to officers who, with members of the public, were among the first on scene with colleagues trying to save this young girl's life and have since supported her family and friends. Through diligent work by them all an early arrest was made and our major crime team now continue to investigate the events leading up to this awful attack.' London Mayor Sadiq Khan told Greatest Hits Radio London: 'My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family of the 15-year-old child who has been stabbed in Croydon. 'I've been in touch with the commissioner [Sir Mark Rowley] and we are in touch with the police. 'It's heartbreaking. An arrest has been made of another teenager in relation to this matter. 'There were other people present and I'd encourage them to contact the police. If they are worried about the anonymity they can ring Crimestoppers. 'It's really important people come forward and support the police to make sure justice occurs for this poor girl's family.' Video and pictures posted on social media showed huge police presence and two white privacy screens surrounding the scene. A number of Scotland Yard officers can be seen standing behind a cordon, with one holding up a towel while a paramedic carrying a medic bag crouches to the ground. Beldine Kutima, a receptionist at a nearby four-star hotel, told The Evening Standard: 'One of our duty managers went to get the bus but she came back in total shock and was crying heavily. 'She ran back screaming and grabbed towels from the back room and ran back out there.' An estate agent who works near the scene where the girl was stabbed complained Croydon had seen an upsurge in violence. Leigh Thomas, 41, said: 'I came out of my office and there were two ambulances right across the road and about 12 police cars.' He added: 'Croydon has gone to the dogs recently. The other side of the shopping centre is a war zone. 'There's drug dealing, fights, there was another stabbing recently. I grew up around here, it's not what it used to be.' Home Office minister Chris Philp posted on X: 'Devastating news that a 15-year-old girl was fatally stabbed in Croydon town centre and died soon afterwards on the scene, despite the best efforts of the emergency services. 'Our hearts go out to her family who must be in deep shock at their terrible loss. 'Nothing can be worse for a parent than losing a child. 'An arrest was made shortly afterwards of a teenager believed to be known to the victim. 'We must redouble our efforts to take all knives off the streets of London, using every means available.' Transport for London (TfL) has diverted its 60, 407, and 455 routes due to the incident. Wellesley Road has been closed northbound from Whitgift Centre to St Michael's Road. A police marksman who shot dead a gangster who was part of a plot to break out of prison could be sacked despite being found to have killed him lawfully. Jermaine Baker was shot at close range by police as he sat in the front passenger seat of a stolen Audi A6 near Wood Green Crown Court in north London in December 2015. Officers suspected he was one of three men waiting to try and break inmate Izzet Eren, a member of notoriously violent gang, the Tottenham Turks, out of a prison van. An inquiry would later find that despite the Tottenham-native being unarmed at the time he was shot and a series of failings in the police operation, the officer who fired the bullet - known only as W80 - had done so lawfully. But now the unnamed officer faces losing his job as the police watchdog is preparing to bring gross misconduct proceedings against him, The Telegraph reports. Jermaine Baker, pictured, was shot to death by armed police in north London as officers tried to foil a plot to spring a gangster from prison An inquiry later found that the father-of-two, pictured, was lawfully killed by an officer known as W80 It is claimed that the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) could announce the decision later today, with a source telling the paper the timing is 'unfortunate to say the least'. It comes amid raised tensions within the firearms unit at the country's largest police force, after a Met marksman was charged with murder following the fatal shooting of rapper Chris Kaba. The officer - known as NX121 - appeared in court last week, with the decision to charge him sparking a revolt among his colleagues as more than 100 armed officers handed in their weapons permits and refused to carry guns while on patrol. It sparked a rush to find cover, with the Ministry of Defence offering to send members of the Armed Forces into the capital to cover for counter-terrorism officers, while Home Secretary Suella Braverman announced a review into armed policing. The source, who works in the same field as W80 and NX121, told the Telegraph the decision meant firearms officers across Britain are 'contemplating their future right now. They said: 'Not only do they risk being charged with murder when things go wrong, but even if they are cleared by the courts they could still be sacked for gross misconduct. 'The system is unfair and it doesn't make any sense. How can you be cleared of wrongdoing by one system but found guilty in another? 'Nobody is saying we shouldn't be accountable for our actions, but there has to be some consistency so we know where we stand. If things don't change then I'm afraid nobody is going to want to do the job and we are going to have a major crisis on our hands.' Jermaine Baker had been 28 year's old when he was fatally shot by W80 near Wood Green Crown Court in the winter of 2015. The counter-terrorism specialist firearms officer (CTSFO) claimed he thought he had seen the father-of-two reaching for a weapon when he pulled the trigger. An imitation firearm was later found in the rear of the Audi. Despite being arrested and investigated by the IOPC, W80 was never charged - with the Crown Prosecution Service saying there wasn't a realistic prospect of conviction should he be taken to court. Mr Baker was fatally shot by an officer during a Metropolitan Police operation which thwarted a plot to snatch Izzet Eren (above) and his co-defendant in December 2015 Officers at the scene in Bracknell Close, Wood Green north London in 2015 after Jermaine Baker died after being shot during an 'intelligence led' police operation In a criminal court he could have claimed self-defence by arguing he had an honest held belief that his life was in danger, even if this was later found to be mistaken. However, the IOPC recommended he face a gross misconduct hearing as these are held under a civil test meaning such a belief must also be reasonable. The Met took the matter to the Supreme Court which rejected the forces claims - and subsequent appeal - that the criminal test should apply in this misconduct hearing as well. An IOPC spokesperson told MailOnline: 'Following the landmark Supreme Court ruling we have been carefully reviewing our original decision on whether there remained a disciplinary case to answer. 'Due to the complexity of the case we sought external independent advice on the outcome of that review, which we received this week. 'We will announce our decision in due course once the relevant people are informed, not least the officer himself and the family of Jermaine Baker.' MailOnline has contacted the Metropolitan Police for comment. In 2022 His Honour Clement Goldstone QC concluded in an inquiry that, while Mr Baker was lawfully killed, there were police failings at almost every stage of the operation, which would 'serve as a loud wake-up call' to the next Metropolitan Police Commissioner, following the resignation of Dame Cressida Dick. He said police chiefs were 'fixated' and 'obsessive' with their mission to stop the release of Eren and crack down on the Tottenham Turks that they couldn't see the flaws in their approach. Mr Goldstone suggested the operation 'would have little effect on disrupting the activity of the Tottenham Turks or on achieving sustained public protection'. He added: 'The idea that this operation could succeed in ridding the streets of North London of lethal firearms was delusional in reality, one firearm was the best the MPS could hope to recover.' Bizarre decisions included an insistence not to consult Serco, the firm running the prisoner van, of the operation plans due to fears of corruption within the company, which Mr Goldstone described as 'unspecified, undocumented and unsubstantiated.' Had the force included them in planning, officers could have controlled Eren's van as well as who else was inside and the route it took from the prison to the court, he added. Reporting on the shooting itself, Mr Goldstone said: 'I conclude that, when W80 shot Mr Baker, he held an honest and genuine belief that Mr Baker was moving in order to reach for the firearm. Wormwood Scrubs, where Izzet Eren, a member of notoriously violent gang, the Tottenham Turks, was being held 'As such, W80 perceived that Mr Baker posed a lethal threat... I draw the conclusion, on the balance of probabilities, that the perceived threat from the actions and movement of Mr Baker was such that W80 honestly believed that it was reasonably necessary for him to shoot at Mr Baker.' Izzet Eren: The Turkish gangster police said Jermaine Baker was trying to break out of prison Officers suspected Mr Baker was one of three men waiting to try and break inmate Izzet Eren, a member of notoriously violent gang, the Tottenham Boys, out of a prison van. Eren - a Turkish gangster - was jailed for 21 years earlier in 2015 after being caught carrying a loaded pistol and a machine gun in north London while allegedly on his way to carry out a shooting. He was described by police as 'a senior member of a Turkish crime group', who had reportedly returned to the UK in breach of a deportation order having been sentenced for drug trafficking offences. His gang, the Tottenham Turks, had a long-running feud with the rival Hackney Turks, which resulted in multiple shootings, both in London and in Turkey, dating to 2009. Eren, now 39, was transferred to a jail in his homeland in August 2019, but absconded from that prison a month later, before being busted by police in Moldova in May this year. Commander Fiona Mallon, Specialist Crime, said: 'I thank the Moldovan authorities, the National Crime Agency and the Crown Prosecution Service for their assistance in achieving this significant outcome. 'The Metropolitan Police Serious Crime Manhunt team works around the clock to track down the criminals 'most wanted' by the Met. In this case, a hugely complex investigation was launched to establish Eren's whereabouts, with a wide range of investigative and sensitive intelligence opportunities exploited. 'This arrest sends a clear message to all those who commit serious crime in London: if you run, we will locate you and you will be brought to justice.' Advertisement Mr Baker's mother, Margaret Smith, said her son was 'no angel', but that he 'should have gone to prison' rather than be fatally shot, and called on the inquiry chairman to consider whether her son being black could have been a factor in him being killed. But Mr Goldstone said he 'found no evidence to support a finding that race played any part in Mr Baker's death'. He also said that W80's 'overall credibility' as a witness 'remained largely intact'. The inquiry chairman highlighted a number of failures, including that public safety should have been - but was not - the primary objective of the operation, that intelligence that the conspirators had only been able to source an imitation firearm was not passed on to W80 and others, and the 'delusional' idea that the operation would succeed in ridding the streets of north London of lethal firearms. The inquiry heard that Mr Baker may have been asleep at the time he was shot, and may have misunderstood contradictory instructions shouted by armed officers who challenged the men in the Audi. A police bug in the car captured a wall of noise with some officers telling the group to raise their hands, while W80 said he had instructed Mr Baker to put his hands on the dashboard. No live firearm was found in the car in which Mr Baker was a front seat passenger, but a replica Uzi was discovered in the back of the car. Officers had intelligence that the group had been unable to obtain a real gun, but this information was not passed on to the firearms team who confronted the men. W80 told the inquiry he was convinced that they would be armed and would fight their way out rather than surrender when challenged by armed police. In a statement released after the end of the inquriy, a Met Police spokesperson said: 'Our thoughts are with the family of Jermaine Baker as the Public Inquiry into his death publishes its report. We offered every support to the Inquiry and submitted detailed evidence which can be found here. 'The Inquiry report criticises how the policing operation was planned and carried out. 'The Inquiry's conclusions, however, were that these failures did not cause Mr Baker's death, it was reasonable in the circumstances to assume that someone in the vehicle would be armed with a real firearm, and that Mr Baker was lawfully killed. 'Since Mr Baker's death we have made changes to how our firearms command operates in London, including how operations are run and overseen, how we train and support officers involved and how we keep records. 'We are always open to improving our capability to tackle the threat of firearms. We will now take time to carefully study the Inquiry's recommendations before responding in more detail.' The driver of a massive American-style Chevrolet Silverado that took up two car parking spaces has been slammed by Aussies. A photo shared on social media shows a Toyota Corolla that wedged itself into one of the two spaces occupied by the ute at an airport in Queensland. Hundreds of Aussies have blasted the ute owner for the 'selfish' act. The owner of a Chevrolet Silverado slammed the driver of a Toyota Corolla for parking their car in one of two parks used by the ute (above) - but didn't get the support he expected 'I love clowns like this. I purposely jam whatever vehicle I have in that little gap just to ruin your self-entitled day,' one said. A second added: 'If he can afford $130,000 for a fancy rig, surely he can afford a $5,000 s*** heap to drive and park at the airport.' 'Compensating for what's lacking in his trousers,' a third declared. A fourth said: 'There's simply no excuse for parking over the parking-lines like this. Want to buy a massive vehicle, fill your boots, but don't expect other people to make allowances for your choices.' American pickup trucks have taken the Australian market by storm. The Dodge Ram is currently the most popular American model in Australia, while Chevrolet is also seeing sales of the Silverado 1500 pickup soar Down Under. The huge utes can cost up to A$169,990 and come with massive fuel and maintenance fees, making them a status symbol among car owners. With sales soaring, other car makers are taking notice of the trend. Ford is importing the larger F-150 pickup truck, converted to right-hand drive, with stocks set to arrive in dealers later this year. Toyota is also bringing its enormous Tundra ute down under, with the model set to hit the market next year. But thousands of Aussies say they are sick of seeing the vehicles take up carparks that are too small for the American vehicles. Australians slammed trendy massive American RAM utes (example above) for 'taking over' roads and 'stealing carparks' An annoyed Jaycar customer shared a photo of an American ute taking up four carparks outside the shop (above) 'Who the f*** let these pieces of s*** into Australia? Too long for one car space and too wide for two. Four of these and the Dan Murphy's car park would be screwed royally,' one person wrote. 'I really wish we could just ban them in Australia,' a second person said. 'Car parks should have a maximum width barrier like underground car parks do with height. If your truck doesn't fit, go park in the nearest paddock and walk to the shops,' another wrote. 'How are these oversized Emotional Support Vehicles even legal on Australian roads?,' a joked. 'Nobody needs a private vehicle this size. Absolutely nobody. They should be classed as commercial vehicles to deter people from buying them,' another person wrote. Another person shared a photo of a large US ute parked over four car spaces outside Dan Murphy's (above) Aussies said American 'trucks' are massive compared to standard Australian utes (pictured above) and take up too much room on roads and in carparks Others said the large cars are downright 'dangerous' and called for tighter regulations on who can drive them. 'These things are dangerous. The vision is terrible, and impact will hit your upper body. These things kill people,' one Aussie said. 'Why are so many of the people who drive these act crazy aggressive on the road? They're ridiculous,' another commented. 'These trucks are super dangerous for pedestrians, especially dangerous for children. I don't know what the right answer is but I think some sensible regulation on vehicle size would make life safer for everyone,' a third person wrote. Thousands of people called for the oversized utes (example above) to be banned in Australia and called out owners for using them as showpieces instead of proper utes The increase in sales of American-style utes is predicted to continue booming as more models become available in Australia, according to carsales.com Editor-in-Chief Mike Sinclair. 'Guaranteed left-to-right hand drive conversions has certainly opened up the interest,' Mr Sinclair told Daily Mail Australia. 'Another part of the attraction is that they are large with larger tow capacities, although they're not much fun to park.' Although there is no hard data to suggest who is buying the utes, Mr Sinclair said that when they are seen on roads their finish suggests many are not used by tradies. 'I don't see many fully kitted up as tradie vehicles,' he said. The enormous Toyota Tundra will soon be made available in Australia Ford is importing the larger F-150 pick-up truck, converted to right-hand drive, with stocks set to arrive in dealers later this year 'You only have to look at the specification of them and the high level of finishes on to suggest that there are other reasons for them being bought.' Russell White, CEO of the Australian Road Safety Foundation warns these vehicles have increased blind spots. 'The bigger these sorts of vehicles are, there is a bigger risk of blind spots being large enough to hide vulnerable road users, so having things like front facing cameras should definitely be part of the overall safety envelope,' Mr White said. Just as we've seen with reversing cameras, its another tool that a driver can have so that they can have the information they need to operate the vehicle. 'As they become more popular and there are more of them, unless something is done to look at the safety rating of them to evolve them with the time, we might potentially see more incidents on the roads.' However many Aussies are also calling for an outright ban on the vehicles. 'I cringe whenever I see Australians driving these u-haul a** looking, American-designed, compensating for something trucks,' one said. 'These vehicles make me irrationally angry. I can't fathom the type of t*rd who buys these,' another added. 'They're not better at anything than more reasonable tradie cars. They're totally impractical. They stick the middle finger up at the planet. I hate them so much.' Move over Logan Roy. There's a new succession story in town a tale of greed, deceit and drugs that has torn apart the family of an industry titan. The grandson of late oil tycoon Marvin Davis, who owned the Beverly Hills Hotel and sold 20th Century Fox to Rupert Murdoch, is going to trial against his own step-father this week. Marvin's grandson Alex Davis, 40, became mega-rich over early investments in data company Palantir and genetics firm 23 & Me, and now runs an investment company with top athletes Patrick Mahomes, Justin Verlander, Naomi Osaka, and Robert Lewandowski on its board. Davis is set to go to trial in Los Angeles this week in a legal and intensely personal feud with his stepfather, Ken Rickel. Rickel claims Davis cheated him out of more than $50 million in their joint business, then reneged on a deal they agreed to smooth things over. The grandson of late oil tycoon Marvin Davis, Alex (right), will go to trial against his stepfather, Ken Rickel (left), in Los Anegeles this week Rickel's wife and Davis' mother Nancy, 65, (center left) is likely to be embroiled in the courtroom drama, with Rickel's lawyers calling her as a witness to Davis' dismay. Rickel (center right) is pictured with her and his two daughters Isabella and Mariella The 70-year-old says he raised Davis after his biological father walked out on his mother, Nancy Davis, and repeatedly bailed the boy out of scrapes. 'Believing that they had a genuine father-son relationship, Rickel trusted Davis,' Rickel said in legal documents. But now there is no love lost between the two. Rickel's legal complaint filed in December 2020 is a vicious indictment of his stepson, accusing Davis of 'untreated drug and wine addiction' and a 'mean spirit', calling him a 'pathological liar, unstable, and erratic', an 'ingrate', 'a malignantly-flawed character' and 'unable to curb his greed'. The Davis family were the inspiration for the Carringtons, protagonists of Aaron Spelling's 1980s hit soap Dynasty but Rickel's cutting insults read more like the script of HBO's Succession. Rickel claimed Davis usurped his share of their company, Disruptive Technology Advisors (DTA), in early 2014 while Rickel 'was attending to his dying father in Florida'. Billionaire patriarch Marvin Davis was called 'Mr. Wildcatter' after he made his initial fortune in the oil business The money they are fighting over ballooned with the success of ventures such as Palantir, in which they invested $8.5 million during its early stages, and raised a further $275 million for. He claimed Davis 'created fraudulent documents literally removing him from his own business and transferring Rickel's 50 percent ownership share to two of Davis's friends.' After they reached a settlement in April 2014, Rickel claims Davis 'fraudulently created dozens of new companies [] designed to cheat Rickel out of his rightful share.' In legal documents, Rickel called Davis a 'a pathological liar, unstable, and erratic' whose 'judgment and ability to function on a day-to-day basis are hopelessly impaired by his serious and untreated drug and wine addiction.' 'He abuses prescription drugs, opioids, and sleeping pills. His recollection is clouded by his addiction problem, and he is not clear-headed, nor a clear thinker,' his 2020 legal filing said. 'Davis is rarely sober, cannot safely drive a car, and employs a security guard to be his driver. With multiple car accidents, he is such a menace that he is not allowed to drive his children. A man who cannot be trusted to safely drive a car due to his chronic insobriety is not fit to serve as a fiduciary managing other people's money.' For his part, Davis says his step-father is a crook, and the one reneging. Rickel's furious filing was in response to an original lawsuit by Davis in September 2020, which asked a judge to uphold their 2014 pact which he claimed his step-father was overstepping. Davis highlighted Rickel's past alleged illegal securities trading, which the SEC charged him for in 2008 and for which he paid a $150,000 fine. The Davis family were the inspiration for the Carringtons, protagonists of Aaron Spelling's 1980s hit soap Dynasty but Rickel's cutting insults read more like the script of HBO's Succession The tycoon's grandson claimed it put off investors from backing their joint business they formed in 2011, forcing him to go it alone. Davis claims he, not Rickel, discovered Palantir, and when he told his step-father he had raised $275 million to invest in the data firm in February 2014, Rickel tried to worm his way back in, Davis alleged. The step-father and son are set to face off in a courtroom battle before a jury beginning Thursday in Santa Monica Superior Court. Rickel's wife and Davis' mother Nancy, 65, is likely to be embroiled in the courtroom drama, with Rickel's lawyers calling her as a witness to Davis' dismay. In one September 14 filing, Rickel claimed that Davis 'seeks to exclude his mother's testimony at trial because he knows that she will testify that he grossly exaggerates his involvement with her father, Marvin Davis,' which Rickel claims only amounts to 'someone who occasionally hung out at his grandfather's office during high school.' Davis argued against her inclusion, saying it would 'inflame the jury' to see a mother testify against her own son though he earlier subpoenaed her for a deposition in the case. A legal filing by Rickel's lawyers includes a furious email exchange between Alex and Nancy from October 7 2020. The son told his oil heiress mother he is 'simply asking the judge to agree or disagree with me so we can get this behind us once and for all.' But Nancy wasn't having it. 'You cant seem to admit the truth and own the FACT that you filed a lawsuit against your stepfather, my husband , the father to your sisters that was completely unnecessary, cruel, very dishonest and disrespectful in every way possible and immediately gave it to the press all to try to defame and destroy Kenny and his reputation,' the Davis mother wrote. 'You use your grandfathers name in a way that would have him turning over in his grave,' she added. 'This is inexcusable.' The tycoon's grandson also argued against any mention of his alleged drug use before the jury, including Suboxone, a medication used to treat opioid addiction, for which he has a prescription according to court documents. Davis said mention of it would be 'irrelevant', as he was not intoxicated during the key events at issue in the case. Rickel's lawyers filed a motion on September 14 saying that Nancy is set to testify that 'Davis was not only using Suboxone, but simultaneously drinking alcohol. She observed him acting erratically, slurring his words, and unable to remember things he had said or done.' In February 2020, Alex Davis' brother Jason Davis (pictured), the voice of Recess character Mikey Blumberg, also died aged 35 of a fentanyl overdose Brandon (left), became famous for dating starlet Mischa Barton (right) and getting into a feud with Lindsay Lohan, nicknaming her 'Firecrotch' They argue his alleged faulty, drug-addled memory will be relevant in the trial. The Davis family has been plagued by infighting and tragedy since their patriarch passed in 2004, leaving a $5.8 billion fortune, according to a Forbes estimate. Marvin's eldest daughter, Patricia Davis Raynes, sued her mother and four siblings claiming they conspired to steal her trust fund before the tycoon's death, and that Marvin entrapped and beat her to get her to sign documents handing over control of her finances. Her sister Nancy also sued their brother Gregg over his alleged undervaluing of the family oil firm Davis Petroleum in its sale in 2006. In 2018 Raynes found her son Nick dead in his Upper East Side bathroom aged 33, after taking fentanyl-laced heroin. In February 2020, Alex Davis' brother Jason Davis, the voice of Recess character Mikey Blumberg, also died aged 35 of a fentanyl overdose. His other brother, Brandon, became famous for dating starlet Mischa Barton and getting into a feud with Lindsay Lohan, nicknaming her 'Firecrotch'. Brandon reportedly racked up a $300,000 debt at the Wynn Las Vegas and Bellagio casinos, and was arrested for felony drug possession in 2014, before going into rehab for alcohol and cocaine addiction. Former Qantas boss Alan Joyce will be a no-show at the Senate inquiry looking into how the airline was protected from foreign competition during his tenure as CEO. Mr Joyce is overseas due to 'personal obligations' and won't appear in person or by video link before the Senate committee looking into the Albanese government's decision to block Qatar competing with Qantas on domestic routes. It is believed he is travelling in Europe and may be visiting his native Ireland. Despite Mr Joyce being unable to appear before the inquiry's deadline, the investigating committee chair Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie said Joyce will be called to front the Senate about the question whenever he gets backs to Australia. In his absence, Mr Joyce is being represented at the inquiry by lawyers and the airline's new CEO Vanessa Hudson and Qantas chairman Richard Goyder are fronting up to be questioned again on Thursday following a gruelling session on Wednesday. Former Qantas CEO Alan Joyce (pictured left with husband Shane Lloyd) won't front up to a Senate inquiry looking into how the airline was protected from foreign competition On Wednesday, Senator McKenzie repeated the Coalition's inference the decision to back the Voice Yes campaign was some sort of 'quid pro quo' in exchange for the Albanese's government's rejection of Qatar Airways. Qantas showed its support for the Indigenous Voice to parliament by adding a Yes design to the side of three of their aircraft in August. Ms Hudson was given a particularly torrid time by Senator McKenzie who accused her of not coming prepared to answer questions about Yes campaign logos painted on the side of Qantas jets. 'I hope you'll respect, filibustering might have been the strategy of the former chief executive officer,' Senator McKenzie said. 'I don't appreciate it from the current one.' Ms Hudson later insisted the support for the Yes campaign and the Qatar bid were 'completely different and unrelated positions'. Qantas' senior council Andrew Finch also queried the link asking Senator McKenzie to 'elaborate'. Senator Bridget McKenzie grilled Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson on whether support for the Indigenous Voice 'Yes' campaign was 'quid pro quo' for being protected from a competitor on Wednesday A tense back-and-forth between the pair ensured, with Senator McKenzie delivering a brutal dressing down to Mr Finch. 'Guess what. When you come to a Senate inquiry, we ask the questions and youre supposed to come with the answers,' she said. 'A bit like failing to hand in a submission, not having details about when you had made significant decisions in partnership with the government just shows the level of disrespect.' The committee eventually learnt the decision to back the Yes campaign was made by Mr Joyce in consultation with the group management committee, not by the airline's board. Ms Hudson insisted she was not involved in conversations with Labor about the Qatar bid and only learnt of the decision to block it through the media. 'We were not formally or informally advised the feedback I got was that there was no informal conversation, and we learned through the media,' Ms Hudson said. Earlier, Ms Hudson echoed her apology to consumers and stakeholders, beginning her appearance at the inquiry with yet another 'sorry'. 'There have been times when we have let the wider Australian public down and we understand why people are frustrated and also why some have lost faith in us,' she said. Qantas Chief Executive Officer Vanessa Hudson (pictured right) and board chair Richard Goyder (pictured left) were given a torrid time at the Senate inquiry 'As the new CEO. I am determined to fix that.' Qantas chair Richard Goyder, who is facing calls to resign in the wake of a High Court ruling the airline illegally sacked 1,700 ground workers, was also under fire for his past comments about Mr Joyce. Mr Goyder had previously claimed Mr Joyce was the best chief executive in Australia. He told the committee he wasn't going to walk away from Mr Joyce despite understanding Qantas has 'some work to do to recover trust'. 'I think Alan Joyce did an excellent job as CEO over 15 years in what is a demanding industry,' he said. As far as calls for him to go, Mr Goyder argued Qantas shareholders didn't want him to resign. His mother Scarlett is begging the ex-con to turn himself in and says she only heard from him once The 32-year-old is a repeat offender who was most recently linked to the death of tech CEO Pava LaPere The mother of the prime suspect in the murder of Forbes 30 under 30 CEO Pava LaPere has apologized to the victim's family - and said she doesn't understand what could have motivated her son if he is responsible. Scarlett Billingsley's son Jason Billingsley, 32, has a sordid history of sexual crimes, including strangling and raping a woman at knifepoint which landed him with a 30-year prison sentence. The 305lbs, 6'4 ex-con who is 'armed and dangerous' is now being hunted by cops after being named a suspect in LaPere's murder, and his mother begged for him to turn himself in when she last heard from him on Tuesday. 'I told him that he needs to turn himself in, but I really don't think he's going to do that because he's scared,' she told WJZ. 'I don't know where he is, he don't even call me but I've been trying to call him. He texted me one time to say that he's OK.' After seeing his face on a TV news report she said: 'I screamed. I cried. I can't understand what happened...that he would do something like that. 'I am so sorry that this happened to her, and if my son did it, I really apologize because I don't know what happened to make him do that.' Jason Billingsley is wanted in connection with the murder of EcoMap Technologies founder Pava LaPere The 32-year-old, pictured here with his mother, has a sordid history of violent sexual attacks LaPere's battered body was found on the rooftop of her apartment building. She is not believed to have known Billingsley Shocking details of the crime which landed Billingsley with a 30-year sentence - before he was freed after just seven years for good behavior - came to light Wednesday. Billingsley had posed as a Good Samaritan before he strangled and raped a woman in her 20s at knifepoint in 2013. He approached her as she sat in the street in the wake of a 'verbal argument' with her boyfriend. He introduced himself as 'Jason' and asked the distressed woman, who is now 35, what was wrong before offering her a place to stay for the night. But when they got to the location he told her they would have to climb through an unlocked window as he had lost his keys, according to court records. 'They both sat on a bed and talked. She states that "Jason" told her he wanted to have sex with her. And at that time she told him that she wanted to leave,' the complaint reads. 'Jason then struck her on the face and placed both his hands around her neck. He began to apply pressure around her neck. He told her she was going to do what he said or he was going to shoot her.' 'He told her to get on her knees in front of him. She stated that she complied and got on her knees in fear he would harm her.' After forcing the woman to perform oral sex, Billingsley took $53 from her wallet. As he left the house, he growled: 'You better not tell anyone about this. My aunt is a police officer. Know one (sic) will believe you,' according to the complaint. Billingsley was released from prison in October 2022 for 'good behavior credits,' despite being sentenced for strangling a woman and raping her at knifepoint years earlier LaPere was described as having 'untiring commitment' to her company and to the city of Baltimore She was a member of the Forbes 30 Under 30 class of 2023 People flooded a vigil held in memory of the CEO on Wednesday He was hit with charges including attempted first-degree rape, false imprisonment and assault and was sentenced in 2015. Of the 30-year sentence, 16 years were suspended and five years were supervised probation. With good behavior credits he was able to walk free in October last year despite having an original release date of 2043. Billingsley committed his first assault in 2009 at age 18 before committing a second in 2011. He served a two-year prison sentence for the second attack. Police issued a fresh arrest warrant for him Tuesday along with a stark warning to the public that the convicted sex offender has a warped history of rape and violence. He remains listed as a Tier 3 sex offender, the most serious of the classifications. Billingsley was also connected to an attempted arson, murder, and rape on September 19 that left two victims with critical burn injuries, a source told the DailyMail.com. Evidence in that case linked Billingsley to LaPere's death a week later. A $6,000 reward is being offered for information leading to his capture. Police found the 26-year-old Johns Hopkins grad inside her apartment on September 25, showing signs of blunt-force trauma. She was the founder and CEO of EcoMap Technologies, a Baltimore-based tech start-up. Billingsley is not believed to have known LaPere, who lived on the seventh floor of the building and whose beaten body was found on the roof. Billingsley's mother, Scarlett, apologized profoundly to LaPere's family, saying: 'If my son did it, I really apologize because I don't know what happened to make him do that' Scarlett said she told her son to surrender in connection with the entrepreneur's death, but: 'I really don't think he's going to do that because he's scared' The start-up founder's body showed signs of 'blunt-force trauma,' according to police Billingsley, who remains on the run, is considered armed and dangerous and is said to be a suspect in 'at least one other case' Members of LaPere's family spoke during the vigil to honor the slain entrepreneur The family of Pava Marie LePere at her Memorial vigil In Baltimore on Wednesday night Pava LaPere's father Frank breaks down in tears at her vigil on Wednesday On Wednsesday night, a remembrance ceremony was held for LaPere at the Washington Monument in Mount Vernon. Her tearful father, Frank LaPere, told her friends and co-workers: 'We're going to take her away from Baltimore, but her presence will never leave here. 'She's always, always been a leader. Always been driven and creative, always intended to be a high achiever - didn't mention it or say it or anything, but you could just tell she knew what she wanted to accomplish and there was nothing that could get in her way.' The crowd then held a minute of noise for LaPere, after her former roommate said she would have preferred that to a minute's silence. EcoMap hosted a vigil for their founder the night of September 26. It was held on the south steps of the Washington Monument in Mount Vernon. A statement from the company described LaPere as a 'leader, friend and partner' with an 'untiring commitment to our company, to Baltimore, to amplifying the critical work of ecosystems across the country, and to building a deeply inclusive culture.' During a news conference on September 26, Mayor Brandon Scott said that Billingsley should not have been released from prison. 'The conviction should be the conviction,' he said, 'and we have to make sure that folks are held accountable in every single way because we are tired about hearing the same people committing the same type of crimes over and over again.' Acting Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley echoed the sentiment, warning that Billingsley would 'kill and rape again' if he was not apprehended. In his closing remarks on the same day, Worley said: 'Before we end, I just have a message for Jason Billingsley. 'If you're out there watching - hopefully you are - every single police officer in Baltimore City, the state of Maryland, as well as the U.S. Marshals are looking for you. 'We will find you.' The schoolgirl is the third teenager to die from knife injuries in capital this year More teenagers have been murdered in London this year than for the whole of 2022. The 15-year-old schoolgirl knifed to death yesterday became the 16th teenager to be murdered in the capital and the 13th to die from stab wounds. Last year, 14 teenagers were murdered in London. The schoolgirl is the third teenager to have died from knife injuries in the capital this month. London Mayor Sadiq Khan said: 'I am absolutely heartbroken by the death of a 15-year-old girl in Croydon. Police cars surrounded the parked bus in Croydon shortly after the attack Forensic officers walk past the scene, which features several privacy screens 'My thoughts and prayers are with this young girl's family and friends, and the whole community, at this unimaginably awful time.' A post-war record of 30 teenagers were murdered in London in 2021, with 29 killed in 2008. Donna Murray-Turner, of Another Night of Sisterhood, which supports families in the aftermath of murders, criticised Mr Khan for failing to tackle the knife crime epidemic. She said: 'Once again, violence has had an immense effect on our community. This is going to have a massive effect across our borough. 'It's devastating that another young life has been taken.' She called on Mr Khan to 'refocus' on the violent crime plaguing the capital. She said: 'As far as the Mayor of London is concerned, throwing funding at things isn't enough. We need to have a bigger conversation. 'This is a societal problem, it's not just a black or working class problem. [Sadiq Khan] needs to start engaging in some uncomfortable conversations.' General Mark Milley has now responded, saying he has 'adequate' security Donald Trump had shared a post calling for the execution death of a US General Outgoing Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark Milley has hit back at Donald Trump after the former President called for his death for 'traitorous' discussions with China. In a post to Truth Social, the former President hit out at Milley who he claims went behind the Trump administration's back to reach out to officials in Beijing. Trump wrote: 'If the Fake News reporting is correct [Milley] was actually dealing with China to give them a heads up on the thinking of the President of the United States. 'This is an act so egregious that, in times gone by, the punishment would have been DEATH!' Speaking to 60 Minutes, Milley responded: 'I've got adequate safety and precautions, I wish those comments had not been made but they were . 'I'll take appropriate measures to ensure my safety and the safety of my family.' Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Mark Milley is responding to comments by former President Donald Trump suggesting that Milley deserves to be executed for communications the general had with China. https://t.co/gOlcC0rE41 pic.twitter.com/pSgO9mNcEY 60 Minutes (@60Minutes) September 27, 2023 Fromer President Donald Trump delivers a statement about Iran as U.S. Army Chief of Staff General James McConville and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Army General Mark Milley listen Milley has now responded to Trump, saying he has 'adequate' security in place and that he wished the comments hadn't been made Milley said: 'I am a soldier, I've been faithful and loyal to the constitution of the United States for 44 and a half years. 'My family and I have sacrificed greatly for this country, my mother and father before them. 'As much as these comments are directed at me, it's also directed at the institution of the military. 'There's 2.1 million of us in uniform, and the American people can take it to the bank that all of us, every single one of us, from private to general we're loyal to that constitution. 'We'll never turn our back on it, no matter the threats, no matter the humiliation, no matter what. 'If we are willing to die for that document, if we are willing to deploy to combat, if we are willing to lose an arm, leg [or] an eye, to protect and support and defend that document and protect the American people, then we are willing to live for it too. 'I'm not going to comment directly on those things but I can tell you that this military, this soldier, me, will never turn our back on that constitution.' When asked if there was anything inappropriate or treasonous about the calls he made to the China he replies: 'Absolutely not, zero, none.' Milley had previously told Senators at a hearing that calls to China were routine and done with the knowledge of Trump officials. In his post, Trump had also branded the calls as a 'treasonous act' that could have resulted in a war between China and the U.S. China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Li Zuocheng (L) and Milley review an honour guard during a welcome ceremony at the Bayi Building in Beijing on August 16, 2016 In a post to Truth Social, the former President hit out at Milley who he claims went behind the Trump administration's back to reach out to officials in Beijing Former President Trump speaks as the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley, right, listens during a briefing in the Cabinet Room at the White House Milley is said to have made the calls to his Chinese counterpart behind Trump's back over concerns the ex-President would take rogue action to stay in office. During a hearing in 2021, Milley defended his calls to China during the Trump presidency. At the hearing, Milley said: 'I was communicating to my Chinese counterpart - on instructions, by the way - to deescalate the situation. 'And I told him that we are not going to attack. President Trump has no intent to attack, and I told him that repeatedly. 'I told him if there was going to be an attack, there will be plenty of communications going back and forth, your Intel system will pick it up. 'I said, I'll probably call you. Everybody will call you. We're not going to attack you, just settle down, it is not going to happen. I did it twice, in October and January.' At the same hearing, Milley also told Senators that he never discussed his phone calls with former President Trump himself. Former President Donald Trump speaks at a rally in Summerville, S.C., Monday, Sept. 25, 2023 Former President Donald Trump departs the White House to visit outside St. John's Church, in Washington with General Milley in June 2020 After the hearing, Trump branded Milley as 'treasonous' and called him 'a complete nutjob' and that Milley never told him about the calls made to China. In his opening statement, Milley claimed people within the ex-president's inner circle were made aware of the call near-immediately after. Trump named Milley to the top military post in 2018, where he served until 2022 and was only recently replaced by the Biden administration. Their relationship quickly soured and details of their clashes have seeped into public view with publication of several accounts of the final days of the Trump presidency. Last week, Joe Biden picked a new chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in Air Force Genral Charles Q. Brown who will replace General Miley. President Biden's pick for the new chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff has been confirmed as Air Force General Charles Q. Brown It is the first time in US history that both the Secretary of Defense and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff are African American. The new chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff made headlines back in 2020 when he held the title of the commander of Pacific Air Forces, as he recorded an emotional video right after the police killing of George Floyd. In full uniform, he got personal and was 'full of emotion' for 'the many African Americans that have suffered the same fate as George Floyd'. General Brown will seize command after reaching the 51 vote threshold needed at a vote on Wednesday. Only Sen. Ron Johnson and Sen. J.D. Vance voted no. It comes after President Biden in May said he could 'think of no one better suited or more qualified to lead our forces'. The Government's decision to approve drilling in the UK's largest untapped North Sea oil and gas field brought a predictable outpouring of hysteria from the green lobby. It's 'an act of war against life on Earth,' campaigner Chris Packham told his social media followers. 'Morally obscene', says the Green Party. 'Carte blanche to ruin the climate', according to Greenpeace. As ever, Sir Keir Starmer cravenly sat on the fence. He didn't support the decision but says he wouldn't reverse it either. Classic Labour equivocation. To any reasonable person this is a welcome piece of environmental realpolitik. Much as the zealots might wish otherwise, fossil fuels will be an essential part of our energy mix for decades to come. The efficiency of renewables is improving, but they currently fulfil just a third of our needs. Along with nuclear, only oil and gas can fill the gap. Vast revenues will accrue from this field, enabling the Government and energy companies to invest more in renewables and help expedite the green revolution (File Photo) Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine has shown how vulnerable the global market is to shocks. So anything that makes our energy supply more secure must be a good thing. Yes, the main investor in Rosebank is Norwegian state energy firm Equinor. But Norway is already our primary supplier of gas imports and, unlike Russia, a trusted and reliable ally. This decision is part of a wider realisation in Downing Street that the timetable for reaching net-zero is just too tight. Rishi Sunak wants to achieve carbon neutrality, but without impoverishing ordinary families, allowing the lights to go out or compromising our security. Vast revenues will accrue from this field, enabling the Government and energy companies to invest more in renewables and help expedite the green revolution. Who could possibly argue with that? Cost of absenteeism There is an overwhelming body of evidence to show that early-years learning is crucial to later educational and social development. If they miss out on this essential building block, children are far less likely to fulfil their potential in life. So the fact that almost one in five primary school pupils is now persistently absent from the classroom should alarm us all. In secondary schools, non-attendance is even worse. After the pandemic-related school closures ended in March 2021, it was assumed that children would skip happily back into class. Tragically, the opposite has been true, as a special investigation by Harriet Sergeant shows. A combination of lockdown-related mental health issues and pupils simply losing the school habit has led to surge in absenteeism. And it is storing up problems for the future. Truancy leads to educational under-achievement, and those who under-achieve are more likely to succumb to crime, addiction, and unemployment. The Government should do all it can to encourage pupils back to class, but ultimately the parents must take responsibility. It's not just a legal duty to ensure children attend school full-time. It's also a moral one. Cycle of blood-letting A 15-year-old girl, killed at a bus stop in Croydon on her way to school, has become the latest tragic casualty of the knife crime epidemic sweeping London and other major cities. Such a savage attack in broad daylight shows how carrying a blade has become normalised among young men in some parts of urban Britain. This victim was the 16th teenager stabbed to death in the capital alone this year. A forensic investigator puts flowers in a container at the scene where the 15-year-old was stabbed to death If they are to break this hideous cycle of blood-letting, London mayor Sadiq Khan and Scotland Yard must increase the use of stop and search. Some will protest that this tactic is unfair and discriminatory. But if it can reduce the horrific body-count, such objections must be overruled. Two brothers and a young father have all been killed in a horror crash on a highway south of Perth. Jaziah Thomas, 24, and brothers Kody and William Bell, aged 24 and 21, were tragically killed in the crash on Sixty Eight Road in Baldivis just after 5pm on Wednesday. A black Kia Stinger and a white Audi sedan had collided head-on allegedly at high speed. Police confirmed four men had been inside the Audi at the time of the collision. Mr Thomas had been behind the wheel of the Audi while the two brothers and another man, 21, were all passengers. Emergency responders threw tarpaulins over the Audi and used the jaws of life to tear it apart and rescue the 21-year-old from the wreckage who miraculously survived. That man was airlifted to hospital where he remains in a stable condition, but Mr Thomas and the Bell brothers were unable to be saved. Kody and William Bell, along with a third man yet to be identified, were tragically killed in the crash on Sixty Eight Road in Baldivis just after 5pm on Wednesday (pictured is Kody Bell) William Bell lost his life in the tragedy on Wednesday Jaziah Thomas had been driving an Audi sedan with three passengers inside when the car collided with a Kia Stinger. Mr Thomas was unable to be saved A 44-year-old woman who was driving the Kia was also taken to hospital with minor injuries. Tributes have since flowed for the young men killed in the horror accident. Kody Bell is survived by his wife and two young children, a son and daughter. Mr Thomas also had two young children, one just four-months-old, with his partner Tamekah Locker, with the pair having been together since they were 14. 'It still doesn't feel real and I keep waiting for you to just walk through the door and it breaks me apart to know you're not going too,' Ms Locker wrote on Facebook. 'You have been my whole world, my best friend and my person since we were 14 and I don't know how I can live without you, I just want you to come home. 'Thank you for giving me our 2 beautiful babies they love you so much and I'm so sorry you won't be here to see them grow up but I promise I'll make you proud and do everything we spoke about for their future I know you will be watching over us all the time. 'You were the perfect partner and perfect dad. We are so lucky to have had you in our lives and we will never forget you and all of our memories.' Kody's wife Gabrielle Bell commented on Ms Locker's post, writing: 'I'm so sorry for your loss, here with you'. Kody and William's father Curley Bell thanked first responders for rushing to the aid of his children. 'I just want to thank the people that assisted with that accident on 68 road this evening, my family lost our two sons and another life was lost as well,' he said. Their mother, Belinda, also thanked those who rushed to her son's assistance, and shared her heartbreak at the news. 'Still can't believe it. Lost 2 sons in 1 day!' she said. A friend of Will said he was the 'purest soul'. Kody Bell leaves behind his wife and two young children, a son and daughter 'No words can explain the heartache not only we feel but everyone does,' she shared on Facebook. 'Tomorrow is never promised nowadays and for that being I can't express enough that I'm so grateful to call you a big brother and for all what you did for me constantly checking up on me, going off at every boy that tries to talk to me. 'Will you were one of a kind with the biggest heart and best sense of humour. 'Willy not a day will go by that you're not in our thoughts as well as Kody. 'May god love and protect your family.' Another friend said he would always treasure his memories with Kody and Will. 'Kody we used to spend everyday together from the moment you finish work to when you were walking to bed, thankyou for being my best mate for so many years,' he said. A Kia Stinger and an Audi sedan collided at high speed on Sixty Eight Road in Baldivis, 45km south of Perth at 5:10pm on Wednesday 'We had our ups and downs but we always managed to get through them.' WA Police Acting Inspector Brendon Barwick said it was a 'miracle' there were any survivors of the crash. 'It's quite confronting. It's not an impact on one or two families but the whole community,' he said. One witness, Dina King, who rushed to the scene said she saw an engine from one of the cars about 80 metres down the road. She said she was by Mr Thomas' side for his final moments. 'I was holding the driver's hand and kept telling him to listen to my voice and take deep breaths,' she told The West. When a phone inside the car started ringing, Ms King answered it and was tasked with breaking the news to a mother her sons had been killed. Ms King said the mother had told her sons not to drive that night. Major crash detectives are now investigating the collision, with police believing speed may have been a factor. Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Drivers could be charged for using one of only two fixed routes across the River Thames in East London. The Blackwall Tunnel - which is currently free to use - is set to be tolled by 2025. Draft road signs suggest that motorcyclists will pay up to 3, car drivers up to 4 and other vehicles up to 8.50. But Transport for London has stressed that no fee has been finalised and it is waiting for approval from the Department of Transport. Around 100,000 drivers use the Blackwall Tunnel every day as it is one of the few Thames crossings in east London - the only other nearby crossing is the Woolwich Ferry. The Blackwall Tunnel - which is currently free to use - is set to be tolled by 2025 Revenue made from the tunnel charges will be used to help fund the construction of the new 2billion Silvertown Tunnel. The Mayor of London previously confirmed in an interview with the Evening Standard that 'the intention is for both the Silvertown Tunnel and the Blackwall Tunnel to be tolled' to encourage traffic to split equally between the two. The Silvertown Tunnel, due to be completed in 2025, will be a four-lane tunnel running for 0.9 miles and will connect North Greenwich with the Royal Docks. It was first proposed in 2005 under former Labour mayor Ken Livingstone but was also backed by Conservative mayor Boris Johnson. Its aim is to ease the burden on the Blackwall tunnel, which currently experiences high levels of congestion, and reduce car emissions. According to the draft signs, the Blackwall toll will apply in both directions for all drivers between 6am and 10pm but can be paid online. Details of the plan comes after the Mr Khan rolled out an unpopular expansion of his ultra-low emission zone last month. The Ulez expansion sees owners of cars not compliant with emissions limits forced to pay 12.50 per day to drive across the whole of Greater London. The 'A102' main approach to the Blackwall Tunnel entrance in Greenwich A TfL spokesman said: 'In order to obtain necessary approvals for the new road signage required for the Silvertown Tunnel, a submission for the potential signs has been made to the DfT. 'No charges have been finalised yet and any times and costs within the submission are indicative to allow for approval to be obtained. 'The final charges will be made ahead of the Silvertown Tunnel opening in 2025 once further modelling, including assessments on concessions, are completed.' A British man living in Thailand who claimed Aussies and Brits want to swap living places because of a 'grass is greener' attitude was quickly shot down by proud Australians. Tom Birchy shared a video earlier this month where he claimed people in Australia and the UK often want to live in each other's country, rather than appreciating their own home. 'The grass is always greener. In the UK we think our country is absolutely cut and we dream about moving abroad, going somewhere hotter where we can make more money and have a better quality of life,' he said. 'The irony is Australians, in their perfect paradise land that we Brits think it is, they think the exact same about the UK. 'They all want to move over to the UK so they can experience the history and culture and be a minute from flying to Europe. 'I think it's funny how wherever we're from, we're always like, "It's f***ing s***" and you see all the good in other places.' Mr Birchy explained how he's been more appreciative of the good things in his life since moving from the UK. 'For me, I hate the weather in England and I think everyone's miserable so I don't live there, I live in Thailand,' he said. 'Australian people feel like the whole country knows one another and, even though it's such a big country, they feel isolated from everywhere else. They just want to go see more of the world. 'I get it, I 100 per cent get it, but I think it's funny how whatever we don't have is what we want. 'It's easier to see the things you don't have, isn't it? It's easier to recognise the things you want instead of the things you do have.' However, dozens of Aussies were quick to defend Australia as the superior place to live in the comments. British expat Tom Birchy (above) was shot down by defensive Australians after claiming all Australians want to move to the UK because 'the grass is greener' 'Difference is Aussies always go home,' one wrote. 'I think its funny how everyones saying is the biggest pull factor to live in the UK is that you can quickly leave the UK,' another said. 'Nah we're good down here thanks,' one Aussie wrote. 'As an Aussie who's lived in London for almost two years, the grass was not greener,' a fifth said. The risk of the lights going out this winter has fallen and is almost back to the same likelihood as before the energy crisis, according to a report released today. The National Grid only expects there to be around six minutes between the end of October and the end of March where it might have to resort to special measures to keep the grid running smoothly. In a report ahead of winter, when colder darker days mean people use more energy, it said that it expects the margin for this winter to be 4.4 gigawatts (GW). That measures the average difference between how much electricity wind farms, gas power plants and others can supply and how much households and businesses will want to use. It is a margin of 7.4 per cent, and is significantly higher than the 3.7GW that the grid had to play with last year. The risk of the lights going out this winter has fallen and is almost back to the same likelihood as before the energy crisis, according to a report released today (Stock Image) This means that the period when demand might outstrip supply will be just around 0.1 hours, or six minutes, during the five-month period down from 0.2 hours last winter. 'It's not benign, but compared to last year it is almost going back to around where it was before last winter,' said Craig Dyke, the National Grid's Electricity System Operator (ESO)'s head of national control. 'So the risks that we talked about last year, the probability of them occurring, are much, much lower.' Meanwhile National Gas, which runs the gas grid, said that it expects gas consumption to be broadly stable this year. Homes will use more, but less will be burnt to produce electricity, it said. It added that undersea pipelines will not transport as much gas from Britain to Europe as they did last year. Last year, cut off from Russian gas, European countries imported gas that had come to the UK by ship or from one of its pipelines from Norway. This winter Britain will be likely to need gas imported from the European Union during cold spells to keep heating homes. Otherwise it will largely rely on gas imported by ship so called liquid natural gas (LNG) or from Norway. 'Britain benefits from diverse and flexible sources of gas, supported by pipeline infrastructure that has capacity exceeding anticipated peak demand,' said Ian Radley, system operations director at National Gas. 'Based on our current market view we expect that LNG and GB storage will continue to act as the primary sources of flexible supply to Britain this winter, supplemented by significant UK continental shelf and Norwegian supplies. 'Whilst the outlook is generally more favourable than last winter, we remain alert to the risks that are present and will continue to monitor this international market.' Ron DeSantis came out firing at the start of the second Republican presidential debate by attacking rival Donald Trump and accusing him of being 'missing in action'. On a decisive night in his White House race, the Florida Governor compared the former president to 80-year-old Joe Biden and asked why he wasn't on stage going to battle with the other candidates in California. 'Donald Trump is missing in action. He should be on this stage tonight,' DeSantis said on an unruly night dominated by squabbling between candidates, personal attacks and moderators threatening to cut off microphones. DeSantis then blamed Trump for sinking the U.S. into $7.8 trillion debt and setting the stage for 'the inflation that we have now'. The performance from the GOP field raised more questions about who -if anyone - can catapult themselves and close the gap with frontrunner Trump, who spoke to auto workers in Michigan instead of attending. The debate then quickly descended into chaos again as rivals piled in on biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy over China, TikTok, the border and on his inexperience in politics. Chris Christie started by calling Trump 'Donald Duck' and claimed the former president was too 'afraid' to face the rest of the field at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. Mike Pence then made a bizarre reference to 'sleeping with his wife for 38 years in response to Christie's jibe at Jill Biden for being a member of a teacher's union. 'Donald Trump is missing in action. He should be on this stage tonight,' Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said during the second presidential debate on Wednesday night Seven GOP contenders took stage at the second Republican primary debate on Wednesday evening at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California Trump's campaign released a brutal statement when the spectacle was over, urging the Republican National Committee to cancel the rest of the debates because they are 'boring', 'inconsequential' and a distraction from trying to defeat Biden. Nikki Haley touted her economic policy and vowed to send all aid to the southern border, Mike Pence called for expediting the death penalty for mass shootings. For DeSantis, what started as an attack on President Joe Biden quickly turned to the former president. 'Where's Joe Biden, he's completely missing in action from leadership,' DeSantis said when Fox and Univision co-moderators asked about the economy and prospects of a government shutdown. 'And you know who else is missing in action?' the governor added. 'Donald Trump is missing in action. He should be on the stage tonight.' 'He owes it to you to defend his record,' he said. 'They added. 7.8 trillion to the debt that set the stage for the inflation we have now.' Seven candidates qualified for the debate stage Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis; biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy ; former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley ; South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott ; former Vice President Mike Pence ; former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie; and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum. But with all candidates still polling so far behind Trump, many still view the debate as part of the race for second place. Meanwhile, Trump skipped the event for remarks to auto industry union workers in a Detroit, Michigan suburb Wednesday evening - notably kicking off an hour ahead of the GOP debate. Gov. Christie attacks Donald Trump in a direct-to-camera moment The governor's comments were nearly a direct repeat of what Chris Christie said just moments before. 'The inflation that Nikki [Haley] spoke about is absolutely right. It's cause by government spending and that's why people all across this country are suffering tonight,' Christie said from his podium a few down the line from DeSantis. 'And yet we don't get any answers because Joe Biden hides in his basement and won't answer to why he's raising the debt the way he's done,' he added. 'And Donald Trump he hides behind the walls of his golf clubs and won't show up here to answer questions like all the rest of us are up here to answer.' Christie demanded of the ex-President: 'He put seven trillion on the debt, he should be in this room to answer those questions. As the seven candidates bickered in Simi Valley, California, Trump skipped the debate to instead speak with auto industry workers in a Detroit, Michigan suburb as UAW negotiates for higher wages and shorter work weeks Later, Christie continued his attacks against Trump, and spoke directly to his former ally by speaking to the camera. 'We've got to bring law and order back to this country and not just our cities and we need it in Washington, D.C., also. Donald Trump should be here to answer for that, but he's not,' Christie noted during his time speaking about the rise in crime. 'I'm gonna look at a camera right now and tell you, Donald, I know you're watching. You can't help yourself I know you're watching, okay?' the former New Jersey governor said to laughter from the audience of about 750 in-person spectators. Christie alleged: 'And you're not here tonight not because of polls, and not because of your indictments. You're not here tonight because you're afraid of being on the stage and defending your record.' Political strategists tell DailyMail.com that candidates are hoping and need a show stopping performance if they want to get close to even touching Trump's polling numbers. This is obvious by some of the one-liners where contenders were obviously trying to have a 'headline grabbing' moment. Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley outright mocked Ramaswamys defense for creating a TikTok account after being encouraged to do so by controversial YouTuber Jake Paul. When asked by co-moderator Stuart Varney if it was presidential to be so 'easily persuaded by an influencer,' Ramaswamy argued that Republicans needed to reach the next generation of young Americans where they are.' 'This is infuriating because TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media apps that we could have,' Haley interjected. She added: 'Honestly every time I hear you I feel a little bit dumber from what you say. That exchange came after Sen. Scott segued from answering a question on birthright citizenship to slamming the 38-year-old political newcomer over his business in China - linking them to Hunter Biden. Scott also mentioned Ramaswamy how called his six rivals onstage 'good people' during the debate after referring to them as 'bought and paid for' at the first GOP debate last month. Pence also decided to pile-on when the moderators asked the former VP about Dreamers. 'Well first let me say I'm glad Vivek pulled out of his business deal in 2018 in China,' Pence said with a sly smile. 'That must have been about the time he decided to start voting in presidential elections, he said of the 38-year-old candidate with no political experience. Former U.N. Amb. Nikki Haley (left) outright mocked Vivek Ramaswamy's (right) defense for starting a TikTok account after being encouraged to do so by controversial YouTuber Jake Paul - as the entrepreneur became a punching bag for several GOP hopefuls. Vivek Ramaswamy (left) responds after South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott (right) went after him on the Simi Valley debate stage over doing business in China, including with the same family that Hunter Biden did business with Contenders' jokes fall flat As Christie continued his attacks against Trump, he tried to throw in a joke. 'You're ducking these things,' he said of the ex-President's refusal to participate in the debates. 'And let me tell you what's going to happen: You keep doing that, noone up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore, we're going to call you Donald Duck,' he concluded, appearing pleased with the one-liner. 'OK,' co-moderator Dana Perino replied flatly. The joke also landed flat with the crowd of 750 in the room, with very little chuckles. Earlier in the debate, Pence also tried his hand at a one-liner. 'Joe Biden doesn't' belong on the picket line, he belongs in the unemployment line.' Taking center stage is Ron DeSantis with former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy to either side of the Florida Governor Democrats trolled the event with a plane circling the library trailing a banner reading: 'GOP 2024: A Race for the Extreme MAGA Base.' Trump set a precedent last month by skipping out on the first primary debate with eight contenders in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He instead sat-down for a wide-ranging interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, which again sought to upstage the debate by airing just five-minutes before the debate kicked-off. Trump has suggested he could bypass all of the primary debates, noting that the events are beneath him since no candidate can touch his polling levels. On Monday, during a campaign stop in Summerville, South Carolina, the ex-President called the Republican primary debates 'stupid.' 'Basically, it's a job interview. You look at the debates, it's a job interview, and so far, I'm not too interested,' he said at a campaign field office . President of the Reagan Foundation & Institute David Trulio expressed to DailyMail.com his disappointment that Trump is not participating in the debate. 'We would love for any candidate who meets the RNC qualifications to be here and that, of course, includes President Trump,' Trulio said. 'He has chosen not to sign the pledge as I understand it, which therefore precludes his ability to come on stage, but he met the other requirements that the RNC set.' Trump called President Biden a 'wretched old vulture' and a 'rotten politician' trying to 'rape and pillage' American jobs in a speech to auto workers on Wednesday night. The former president and frontrunner in the GOP polls largely ignored the second presidential debate, instead launching an attack on Biden and his green policies he says are destroying U.S. manufacturing. A rapist who avoided jail because of his young age suffered a 'very significant miscarriage of justice', appeal judges heard yesterday. Sean Hogg, 22, was placed on a community payback order earlier this year after he was convicted of raping a 13-year-old schoolgirl at Dalkeith Country Park in Midlothian. Under new court guidance, criminals under the age of 25 are treated more leniently because of their alleged brain immaturity. At Hogg's sentencing at the High Court in Glasgow in April, Lord Lake said that he had considered the guidelines. But Hogg's lawyer, Donald Findlay, KC, told judges Lady Dorrian, Lord Matthews and Lord Pentland at the Court of Criminal Appeal yesterday that his client had been being wrongly convicted. Sean Hogg (pictured) was placed on a community payback order earlier this year after he was convicted of raping a 13-year-old schoolgirl Mr Findlay said Lord Lake did not properly follow the correct legal procedures used in Scotland to establish the guilt of a rapist. The defence lawyer told the court that the complainer whose evidence led to Hogg's conviction had to have her account of being sexually assaulted corroborated. Mr Findlay said Lord Lake told jurors in his legal directions that the complainer's evidence could be corroborated by an account of a man who said that she appeared 'distressed' following the incident which led to Hogg's conviction. The lawyer told the court that it was wrong for Lord Lake to have told the jurors this. He said the witness's account of 'distress' could not corroborate the complainer's account. Mr Findlay said: 'My submission is that the jury were misdirected by the trial judge and it pains me to say this but there has been a very significant miscarriage of justice at the hands of the judge.' Jurors heard at Hogg's trial that he was 17 when he preyed on the 13-year-old schoolgirl, who cannot be named for legal reasons. Court papers state that Hogg attacked her on various occasions between March and June 2018 and carried out an assault by threatening the teenager, seizing her by the wrists and raping the youngster. As well as being ordered to carry out unpaid work, Hogg was put under supervision and placed on the sex offenders' register for three years. On sentencing Hogg, Lord Lake said: 'Rape is one of the most serious crimes and that is why it is tried at the High Court. 'Looking at the circumstances, her age and vulnerabilities are aggravating factors. For the level of seriousness, I have to consider your liability and have regard to your age as a factor. 'This offence, if committed by an adult over 25, you attract a sentence of four or five years. 'I don't consider that appropriate and don't intend to send you to prison. You are a first offender with no previous history of prison; you are 21 and were 17 at the time. Prison does not lead me to believe this will contribute to your rehabilitation.' Papers lodged by Hogg's appeal team state that in his closing legal directions, Lord Lake told jurors that the account given by the witness could 'corroborate' the complainer's evidence about being raped and this was a 'material misdirection', resulting in a 'miscarriage of justice'. The court also heard that parties involved in the case apparently knew the verdict 'couldn't stand' and was incompetent when the jury returned with it. Mr Findlay said that Lord Lake's actions resulted in a verdict being 'allowed to stand that should not have been allowed to stand'. Prosecutor Ruth Charteris, KC, told the court the Crown believed that there was enough evidence to allow it to maintain Hogg's conviction. If the appeal judges rule against Hogg, then the Crown will make submissions to the court about his sentence being unduly lenient. Lady Dorrian said: 'We will take our time to consider the issues in this case and we will issue our decision in writing in due course.' Speaking after the case, the complainer's lawyer Aamer Anwar said: 'My client in April of this year was left devastated. As far as she is concerned, she came forward. She told the truth. She spoke up. She believes the police and the jury did its duty. 'There is much more that she wishes to say but it would be inappropriate to comment further until the Appeal Court issues its judgment.' A senior police officer is recovering at home after he was struck by a piece of metal shrapnel in a freak accident while supervising a training exercise. The Queensland senior constable, aged in his 30s, was running a routine rifle training session at the City of Brisbane Pistol Club in Belmont on Wednesday afternoon when things went horribly wrong. It's understood a colleague shot a rifle round at a metal pole, which split apart, causing a piece of metal to rebound and hit the Moreton District senior constable in the neck. A horrifying photo obtained by the Courier Mail following the mishap shows the piece of shrapnel still embedded in the police officer's neck after he was rushed to hospital. A senior constable was rushed to hospital after a piece of shrapnel become lodged in his neck The police officer was supervising colleagues during a firearms training exercise at City of Brisbane Pistol Club (pictured) 'Another officer who was shooting down range, hit a metal bar on the target, causing a small piece of metal to ricochet back and hit the trainer in the right side of the neck,' a police statement read. 'Support is being provided to all officers involved in the incident.' Another photo from the harrowing scene shows the damaged pole with chunks of metal missing. The injured senior constable was treated at the scene by paramedics and taken to Princess Alexandria Hospital in a stable condition. He has since been discharged from hospital. The rifle range in the city's east describes itself online as the best pistol shooting venue in Brisbane. A routine training exercise went horribly wrong after a piece of shrapnel from a metal pole (pictured) ended up embedded in an officer's neck An urgent search is underway to find a boy reported missing from Sydneys west. Riley Green, aged 15, was last seen at a home on Banksia Street, North St Marys, around 6.30am on Thursday. Police launched an investigation and urgent public appeal within hours after concerned family members were unable to locate or contact the teen. Police and family hold serious concerns for Rileys welfare due to his age. Police have launched a public appeal to find missing teen Riley Green (pictured) Riley is described as being of Caucasian appearance, 165cm-170cm tall, thin build and has brown hair and blue eyes. He is believed to be travelling on the Sydney Trains network around either CBD or Redfern areas. Anyone who sees Riley is urged to contact Nepean Police or Crime Stoppers. The great sartorial scandal over John Fetterman's signature hoodie-and-shorts has now come to a close after the Senate unanimously passed a resolution enacting a formal dress code. The resolution, brought forth by fellow Democrat Sen. Joe Manchin, W. Va., passed without a formal vote by unanimous consent and clarified that the Senate floor would have a formal dress code. Hours earlier, Fetterman had already announced he would wear a suit and tie while speaking or presiding over the Senate floor. Fetterman, like others, could still wear his trademark garb and vote from the cloak room on the edge of the Senate floor. 'Though we've never had an official dress code, the events over the past week have made us all feel as though formalizing one is the right path forward,' Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on the Senate floor. The great sartorial scandal over John Fetterman 's signature hoodie-and-shorts has now come to a close after the Senate unanimously passed a resolution enacting a formal dress code. Fetterman, like others, could still wear his trademark garb and vote from the cloak room on the edge of the Senate floor The resolution, brought forth by fellow Democrat Sen. Joe Manchin , W. Va., passed without a formal vote by unanimous consent and clarified that the Senate floor would have a formal dress code Last week Schumer had eliminated the unofficial dress code, prompting outcry from conservatives and even some liberals. 'For 234 years, every senator who has had the honor of serving in this distinguished body has assumed there was some basic written rules of decorum, conduct and civility, one of which was a dress code,' said Manchin. But because the dress code didn't really exist, Manchin and Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, decided to write one. Earlier this week Fetterman called on his colleagues to get as fired-up about New Jersey Sen. Bob Menendez's bribery indictment as they were about his outfits. 'This week, I hope to see my colleagues fully address the alleged systemic corruption of Senator Menendez with the same vigor and velocity they brought to concerns about our dress code,' Fetterman said in a statement Tuesday. A chilling video predicted the safety issue of falling from scaffolding onto concrete floor and steps at a construction site where a young apprentice plunged and was fatally injured. Tyler Whitton, who had only just turned 17 and started work as an apprentice builder, fell around three metres at about 1:30pm on Tuesday at a building site on Victoria Street in the inner-city suburb of West End, Brisbane. He was rushed to the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital in a serious condition where he was placed in an induced coma but could not be revived. The Construction Forestry Maritime Mining And Energy Union (CFMEU) on June 16 posted on social media a video they took of a site inspection where they said a 'huge fall from heights' was a major safety concern. Tyler Whitton, 17, has died after falling from a construction site where he was working as an apprentice builder 'We've got fall from heights around the edge of the building, straight over the edge,' the narrator of the video said while showing a drop of metres from scaffolding to concrete floor and steps. The union said they were inspecting the site that they made a video of because workers had reached out to them that morning with safety concerns. READ MORE: Tradie is crushed to death by a metal pole during an accident on a work site in Melbourne Advertisement 'Workers have raised these concerns to the builder and told the CFMEU they were not given the time to clean the site or follow simple safety procedures,' the union said at the time. On Wednesday CFMEU state secretary Michael Ravbar slammed Workplace Health and Safety Queensland for allowing work to continue at the site on Tuesday after Tyler was taken to hospital. 'After it took three hours for WHSQ to show up, the developer was allowed to complete the concrete pour despite clearly identified risk of falls from height at a number of locations on the top deck of the site,' he said. 'All under the watch of a broken regulator that is supposed to manage workplace health and safety.' A video shot of a site inspection in June by the construction union highlighted the danger of falling Site developer CS Development Group has been contacted for comment. A spokesperson for Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) told Daily Mail Australian on Thursday that 'inspectors were immediately dispatched to the worksite'. 'Inspectors issued a non-disturbance notice to secure the incident scene and commenced investigations,' the spokesperson said. 'WHSQ understands all works on site ceased immediately after the incident except a concrete pouring operation in a different area of the site. These activities concluded approximately 30 minutes after WHSQ arrived on site. 'Compliance notices have been issued requiring rectification of a number of high risk issues before works can recommence.' The spokesperson said inspectors had visited the site before Tuesday's tragic accident. 'WHSQs proactive visit to the site on 28 June 2023 resulted in two enforcement notices being issued not related to fall from heights - which were complied with by the due date,' the spokesperson said. 'Outside of the current investigation, Workplace Health and Safety Queensland will continue to monitor the site for compliance with health and safety obligations.' Meanwhile Tyler's grandfather Jack Whitton has posted a heart-wrenching tribute to him on Facebook. On Wednesday CFMEU state secretary Michael Ravbar slammed Workplace Health and Safety Queensland for allowing work to continue at the site on Tuesday after Tyler was taken to hospital 'It is with a heavy heart and heart felt sadness, that today I say goodbye to my beloved beautiful grandson Tyler,' Mr Whitton wrote. 'Words cannot describe the pain and complete numbness we are all experiencing... knowing that we needed to let him go.' Mr Whitton said he could not imagine the pain his son Luke, Tyler's dad, partner Letitia and Tyler's mother, Jess, are going through. 'Tyler, you touched so many hearts with your life,' Mr Whitton wrote. 'A parent nor grandparent should never have to bury their child, yet here we are. 'We will send Tyler with great love in our hearts onward to his next journey.' Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley outright mocked Vivek Ramaswamy's defense for starting a TikTok account after being encouraged to do so by controversial YouTuber Jake Paul - as the entrepreneur became a punching bag for several GOP hopefuls. When asked at Wednesday's Republican debate by moderator Stuart Varney if it was presidential to be so 'easily persuaded by an influencer,' Ramaswamy argued that Republicans needed to win the next election and they would do so by 'reaching the next generation of young Americans where they are.' 'This is infuriating because TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media apps that we could have and what you've got ...,' Haley interjected. 'Honestly everytime I hear you I feel a little bit dumber from what you say,' she said. That exchange came after South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott segued from answering a question on birthright citizenship to bopping the 38-year-old political newcomer on the head over his business deals in China - linking them to Hunter Biden. Former Vice President Mike Pence also had some choice words for the tech entrepreneur, who said if elected he'd likely tap 'probably many of the people on this stage' to serve in a future Ramaswamy administration. Former U.N. Amb. Nikki Haley (left) outright mocked Vivek Ramaswamy's (right) defense for starting a TikTok account after being encouraged to do so by controversial YouTuber Jake Paul - as the entrepreneur became a punching bag for several GOP hopefuls Vivek Ramaswamy (left) responds after South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott (right) went after him on the Simi Valley debate stage over doing business in China, including with the same family that Hunter Biden did business with 'Let me level with all of you, I'm the new guy here and so I know I have to earn your trust,' Ramaswamy told the crowd. 'What do you see? You see a young man who's in a bit of a hurry, maybe a little ambitious, bit of a know-it-all it seems at times. 'I'm here to tell you I don't know it all,' Ramaswamy assured potential GOP voters. Haley made it clear that she agreed. 'We can't trust you, we can't trust you,' she said, pointing at Ramaswamy's previous business with the Chinese. 'It smells bad, I don't appreciate it,' she said later Wednesday night during a post-debate interview with Fox's Sean Hannity. It was Scott who originally mentioned the Ramaswamy-China link, noting how the entrepreneur had called his six rivals onstage 'good people tonight' after saying they were 'bought and paid for' at the first GOP debate last month in Milwaukee. 'I thought about that for a little while and said, "You know I can't imagine how you could say that knowing that you were just in business with the Chinese Communist Party and the same people that funded Hunter Biden millions of dollars were partners of yours as well,"' Scott said from the Simi Valley, California, debate stage. Ramaswamy argued 'these are good people who are tainted by a broken system' as several candidates, including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, spoke over him. DeSantis chimed in arguing that Ramaswamy's business in China was a well-trodden topic, adding, 'let's focus on holding Joe Biden accountable. Ramaswamy appeared to appreciate the assist, but the strike wasn't over. 'I agree with Ron DeSantis on China,' Ramaswamy said. 'When every other CEO expanded into the Chinese market you know what I did with my first company? We opened a subsidiary in China.' 'Well first let me say I'm glad Vivek pulled out of his business deal in 2018 in China,' former Vice President Mike Pence said with a sly smile. 'That must have been about the time he decided to start voting in presidential elections' 'But you know what I did that was different than every other company, we got the hell out of there,' Ramaswamy said. Haley then inserted: 'Right before you ran for president!' The candidates continued to yell over each other as Ramaswamy said it was earlier than that and when he launched his more recent company he 'made a commitment we would never do business in China.' 'I was interrupted by a lot of people,' Ramaswamy complained. He tried to shut down Scott by saying, 'from one admirer of Ronald Reagan to another.' The trio of moderators finally moved on to Pence, asking him a question about Dreamers, but the former VP was ready for Ramaswamy too. 'Well first let me say I'm glad Vivek pulled out of his business deal in 2018 in China,' Pence said with a sly smile. 'That must have been about the time he decided to start voting in presidential elections.' Philadelphia Police made at least 52 arrests for burglary, theft and other counts Dayjia Blackwell, 21, wept during her mugshot after being caught looting in Philly A looter who livestreamed a mob-style thieving spree in Philadelphia and encouraged others to join in burst into tears during her mugshot. Dayjia Blackwell cried after she was charged with burglary, conspiracy, criminal trespass, riot, criminal mischief, criminal use of communication facility, receipt of stolen property and disorderly conduct. Blackwell's anguish has been plastered online, contrasting to the carefree joy she conveyed in videos posted to social media - as dozens ransacked stores in the city's downtown business district. The 21-year-old social media personality, who goes by the name 'Meatball,' told her 181,000 Instagram followers to join her as she excitedly ran through the street and drove to several locations hit by thieves that night. She filmed a mob as they looted Apple, Lululemon and Footlocker, before moving on to a liquor store where she herself boasted about grabbing a bottle of Hennessy. Looter Dayjia Blackwell, who livestreamed a mob-style looting spree in Philadelphia and encouraged others to join in, appeared distraught as police took her mug shot Dayjia Blackwell confidently livestreamed the crime spree in downtown Philadelphia last night, blissfully unaware that just four hours later it would land her in handcuffs Blackwell was put in handcuffs in front of her friends, who remained in the car. She had less to say as she was taken away by cops 'Tell the police if they lock me up tonight it's going to be lit, it's going to be a movie! Everybody's gotta eat!' she said to the camera. It was a bitter pill to swallow for Blackwell when she was finally nabbed by cops while in her friend's car just after midnight. Still filming herself and the night's events on an Instagram live stream, she tried to talk her way out of it. 'We didn't have anything to do with this!' she protested, clearly forgetting about the hours of footage she'd so keenly put together and brazenly shared. Blackwell joined dozens who face criminal charges after the social media-fueled mayhem, in which groups apparently working together, smashed their way into stores and stuffed bags with merchandise before fleeing, authorities said. At least 52 arrests have been made so far with burglary, theft and other counts filed against at least 30 people, so far. According to Jane Roh, a spokesperson for the Philadelphia district attorney's office, all but three of those arrested were adults. The flash mob-style ransacking Tuesday night targeted dozens of stores including Foot Locker, Lululemon and Apple. It came after a peaceful protest over a judge's decision to dismiss murder and other charges against a Philadelphia police officer who shot and killed a driver, Eddie Irizarry, through a rolled-up window. Those doing the ransacking were not affiliated with the protest, Interim Police Commissioner John Stanford said at a news conference, calling the group 'a bunch of criminal opportunists.' At least 52 arrests have been made so far with burglary, theft and other counts filed against at least 30 people, so far At least 18 state-run liquor stores were broken into, leading the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board to close all 48 of its Philadelphia retail locations and one in suburban Cheltenham on Wednesday. No employees were hurt Tuesday night, but 'some were understandably shaken,' said liquor board spokesperson Shawn Kelly. The stores were 'closed in the interest of employee safety and while we assess the damage and loss that occurred,' Kelly said. 'We will reopen stores when it is safe to do so and when the damage is repaired.' Videos on social media showed masked people in hoodies running out of Lululemon with merchandise as police officers grabbing several and tackling them onto the sidewalk. Photos of a sporting goods store at a mall showed mannequins and sneakers scattered on the sidewalk. The thefts and unrest stretched from downtown to northeast and west Philadelphia, leaving smashed display windows and broken storefront coverings. Police said seven cars were stolen from a lot in the northeast - one of the cars had been recovered as of Wednesday afternoon. Six businesses in a single retail corridor of North Philadelphia were looted, including three pharmacies, a hair salon, a tax preparation company and a cellphone store, according to the North 22nd Street Business Corridor, a business group. Benjamin Nochum, the pharmacist and store manager at Patriot Pharmacy, said it was the third time since 2020 his business had been hit. 'When looters steal from us, what they don't seem to understand is that they are also stealing from our neighbors,' Nochum said in a statement. The thefts and unrest stretched from downtown to northeast and west Philadelphia, leaving smashed display windows and broken storefront coverings 'It makes you question how much longer you can hang on.' People appeared to have organized efforts on social media, according to Stanford, the interim police commissioner. Police are investigating 'that there was possibly a caravan of a number of different vehicles that were going from location to location.' Video posted to social media showed people hanging out of cars in a shopping center parking lot, appearing to yell directions to one another. 'This destructive and illegal behavior cannot and will not be tolerated in our city,' said Mayor Jim Kenney, a Democrat, calling it a 'sickening display of opportunistic criminal activity.' His administration is working with police to assess 'which areas of the city may need increased coverage or additional resources,' he said. The chaos in Philadelphia was reminiscent of similarly brazen smash-and-grab thefts elsewhere, particularly in the San Francisco Bay Area, where organized groups of thieves, some carrying crowbars and hammers, have systematically targeted high-end stores. There were a large number of young people in Philadelphia's downtown business corridor, called Center City, shortly before 8 pm, and some officers stopped a group of males 'dressed in black attire and wearing masks,' according to a police news release. At that time, reports and 911 calls came in about the Foot Locker store. When police arrived, they found it had been 'ransacked in a coordinated attack,' the news release said. By 8.12 pm, police responded to similar calls at Lululemon, where police wrestled a few suspects to the ground as people streamed out of the store. The flash mob-style ransacking Tuesday night targeted dozens of stores including Foot Locker, Lululemon and Apple A large number of people can be seen running towards the Lululemon store in this picture during the spree Images shared on social media show a large group storming the Apple store in the city, raiding it in the process Some of the suspected thieves slipped past police and got away, according to video posted to social media. Shortly afterward, calls directed police to the Apple Store, where thieves had forced their way in and made off with phones and tablets then smashed them on the ground when they realized the devices were disabled and their alarms were going off, social media video showed. Some of the merchandise was recovered, according to a police news release. Latest figures, which are up until last Sunday, show how there has been 302 homicides in the city so far this year. There has also been 402 reported rapes, 58,759 cases of property crime, 3,701 cases of aggravated assaults and 1,314 shooting victims. As crime has soared across Philadelphia, it has come as homelessness and drug use on the street have become more prevalent. Homeless people and drug addicts are often driven to petty theft as a way to find ways to sustain themselves or scrape enough money together to supply their addictions. A controversial American influencer was arrested after a confronting incident with a sex worker in his Australian apartment was caught on video by his own livestream. US video producer Paul Denino, best known by the name Ice Poseidon online, was doing a 24-hour livestream in Brisbane last Friday when he and two other mates hired the escort. But she fled their hotel after someone watching the stream texted her to tell her that Denino and his English sidekick Sam Pepper were hiding in the bedroom while she kissed and fondled a third man. Text messages alerting her to what was happening appeared on her phone just as the older bald man, identified only as 'Andy', tried to lead her in to them. The precise intention of the livestream remains unclear but Denino revels in controversy. Sex work is legal in parts of Australia but is a novelty in the US, where it is usually outlawed. Paul Denino, known as Ice Poseidon online, live streamed his own arrest after a video stunt with a sex worker in Brisbane backfired and he was accused of sexual assault The sex worker had agreed to be filmed having sex and a camera was pointed out to her when she arrived and was told it was being live streamed Denino, 29 on Friday, is renowned online for his outrageous stunts which has seen his home raided by the FBI and had him banned from livestream platform Twitch Denino and Pepper left the hotel shortly after the failed stunt and were continuing to livestream their night when police suddenly swooped to arrest them in the street. The pair were later released after officers spoke to the sex worker and established 'a consensual encounter had occurred', a police spokesman told Daily Mail Australia. Denino, 29 on Friday, is renowned online for his outrageous stunts which has seen his home raided by the FBI and had him banned from livestream platform Twitch. He and his large following of fans - dubbed The Purple Army - have been branded toxic for their alleged misogyny, racial vilification and sexual harassment. In June, he was arrested in Thailand and faced five years in jail for 'distributing obscene content' after wearing a sheer basque and fishnet stockings while rubbing food into the face of a woman he was lap-dancing for in the bar of a Bangkok hotel. The charges were later dropped in August after he published an apology on X, formerly known as Twitter. The latest incident began when Denino and his entourage launched a 24 hour livestream while in Australia and hired the sex worker as part of the stunt. In June, he was arrested in Thailand and faced five years in jail for 'distributing obscene content' after wearing a sheer basque and fishnet stockings in a hotel bar He was arrested after he rubbed food into the face of a woman while was lap-dancing for in the bar of the Bangkok hotel Denino was filmed arranging by phone to pay the woman an extra $100 to film their sex in the city centre hotel room at Brisbane's Festival Towers on Albert Street. When the blonde woman arrived wearing white pants and t-shirt, she was instead greeted by bald 'Andy' who pointed out a camera in the room's lounge and told her it was livestreaming. But Andy, wearing purple boxer shorts and a t-shirt, did not mention the two men lurking behind the closed bedroom door or any other cameras as he paid her $550. The pair began to kiss and fondle each other on camera before he starts to take her to the bedroom, but she was stopped in her tracks by a text message on her phone from a mystery good samaritan. She can be seen reading the message aloud in shock, saying: 'Get out, it's a set-up.' The man goes over to look at the screen with her as she reads out more: 'Guys are hiding in the bedroom watching on the livestream. 'There are two guys in the bedroom. They are setting you up.' Andy points to the bedroom and says something unclear but by then the woman has turned around and puts her shoes on to leave, telling him: 'It's really creepy.' The sex worker was stopped from leaving after she was alerted by text about the two other men hiding in the bedroom while Andy argued with her about the return of $500 he gave her Denino (right) discussed with Sam Pepper (left) and Andy what had gone wrong after the escort fled the hotel room As she tries to go out the door, he demands the return of $500 but she insists: 'This is creepy.' Andy replied: "Why is it creepy? It's just you and me in there and no-one else.' She could be seen trying to leave once more without saying anything more but Andy blocks the door from opening with his foot as he demands the money back. Footage of the livestream then jumps to Denino at the door dressed in chino shorts and a t-shirt as Andy comes in from the hotel hallway to explain she left after she was alerted to the stunt by the text messages. Pepper - who has distinctive green dreadlocks - also appears in the room as Andy adds: 'Someone texted her to say youse two were in there planning something.' The three then have a post mortem on the failed stunt and Denino stressing to Andy: 'Definitely cannot hold the door. You have to let her go. 'You cannot hold the door shut. I was about to fly out. If you would have stood there for a second more, I was going to fly out the room and try to resolve everything. 'But I don't know how that was going to go...' Some 20 minutes later, further footage shows Pepper and Denino leaving the building as they walk past three police officers waiting to enter their hotel. Just seconds later, Denino winces in pain as he's grabbed by the officers in the city streets just after midnight. A woman police officer orders them to sit on the pavement and tells them: 'You are both currently under arrest for sexual assault.' 'Excuse me?' says Denino as Pepper looks incredulously at him. 'Yes, seriously,' replies the officer. 'Wait, hold on, who sexually assaulted...' says Denino in shock. 'Yeah, sure, no problem,' he then says as he follows police directions to sit down. 'I mean, there's no...that's totally not like...we...' A male officer asks him: 'What's happening upstairs in your room?' Denino replies: 'I mean, nothing...sexual assault, definitely not.' The incident sparked outrage online with one TikTok influencer demanding a total ban for Denino while others said it was a stunt to promote Denino's new streaming platform. 'This guy, Ice Poseidon, was banned off Twitch because of what he does to people,' TikTokker and esports gamer Avori Strib told her 835,000 followers. 'He is a pretty terrible person...and his community is extremely toxic.' The CEO of the live-streaming platform was allegedly among the viewers watching the incident who made laughing comments on the stream when the stunt backfired. TikTokker and esports gamer Avori Strib slammed Denino over the incident to her 835,000 followers and branded him and his followers as toxic Paul Denino later claimed that he had done nothing illegal The company - which Daily Mail Australia is choosing not to name - said in a statement in the wake of the row that they were 'learning' where to draw the line. 'There's incredible untapped potential in what live streaming has to offer,' the statement said. 'We're firm believers that the greatest days of live streaming are yet to come. 'With that said, community and public safety cannot be compromised in the process of making "content". 'We're continuously learning where this balance sits and are making changes daily. We appreciate our community for the continuous feedback, both the good and the bad. 'We'll keep you updated on upcoming changes to community guidelines and subsequent enforcement measures.' Denino later insisted that he had done nothing illegal. 'Wasn't a "hidden camera" and I got swatted after not arrested,' he posted on X. Swatting is when internet trolls make false claims to police to trigger an armed tactical response raid or arrest. 'It's LEGAL content that even the police wrote off as LEGAL and safe.' But one critic replied: 'Legal is not always morally correct.' Queensland Police confirmed they were taking no further action after investigating the allegations. 'Police responded to reports of an alleged sexual assault at a location along Albert Street in Brisbane City shortly after midnight on September 22,' a spokesman told Daily Mail Australia 'Upon arrival, police spoke to a number of persons, including the alleged victim. It was established that a consensual encounter had occurred. 'No further action was taken by police.' A tourist who was caught in a public sex act by a furious Bali resident was swiftly deported and blacklisted from Indonesia in a reminder to visitors to the tropical paradise about its crackdown on tourist behaviour. The Italian man, 35, was caught on CCTV having sex with a Balinese woman in a residential alleyway in Kuta on September 9. It's understood the man, only identified as LS, met the woman at a nightclub and the pair decided to head back to a hotel. However, they couldn't wait and ended up performing a sexual act in front of a couple's home. A man inside was alerted to the pair by his dog's repeated barking. A 35-year-old Italian man was deported from Bali for performing a sex act in public (pictured, CCTV of the Italian man and the Balinese woman) He reportedly initially thought the man was urinating before seeing he was with a woman. 'It turned out that when we checked the CCTV, they were having sex,' the man's wife, Ayu Purwita, told local outlet Detik Sulsel. READ MORE: Why so many Australians are hospitalised in Bali Advertisement Mrs Purwita said the pair 'jumped over a fence and ran away' but police were able to identify and arrest LS from CCTV footage. The woman he was with was not arrested. The Italian's visa was due to expire on October 3 but he was instead deported on a flight to Rome via Kuala Lumpur. His name will be on the Indonesian immigration blacklist for the next six months and can be extended by six months at any time at authorities' discretion. 'The person concerned will be subject to Immigration Administrative Action in the form of deportation and the person's name will be included in the deterrence list,' Head of the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office, Sugito, said. More than 200 people were deported from Bali between January and August this year - including 12 Australians, Yahoo News Australia reports. The Italian (centre) was deported and blacklisted from Indonesia for at least six months That number is a significant jump compared with 2022 when a total of 188 people were deported throughout the entire year. Tourists in Bali will soon be given a list of 'Dos and Don'ts' upon arriving at the island following local frustration with obnoxious visitors. The list will prevent travellers from pretending they aren't aware of local laws when misbehaving and is part of a wider crackdown, which also includes a specialised 'tourism task force'. Lidia Thorpe has urged Indigenous communities to vote No to the Voice to Parliament mere weeks out from the referendum date. Thorpe leads the 'progressive no' bloc, and believes The Voice would lack power and doesn't support the inclusion of Indigenous Australians in the constitution. The Independent senator has spent the past week travelling to remote communities in central Australia to speak to traditional owners about issues important to them and the referendum. She believes the Voice will not have the power to improve the lives of those in central Australia. First Nations people living in these remote communities are already heavily disadvantaged in key areas such as housing, education, jobs and health. Senator Thorpe said traditional owners had ways to address these issues and needed the government to listen rather than establish an advisory body. Lidia Thorpe (pictured right) has spent the past week travelling to remote Indigenous communities in central Australia to speak to traditional owners '(First Nations people) want to self-determine their own destiny,' she said, as reported by the ABC. 'A voiceless and powerless advisory body is not going to do that, and being part of the Constitution is not going to do that. 'They want to make their own decisions, they've got their own solutions for their own community, you just need governments willing to actually listen to the people on the ground.' Senator Thorpe reiterated to these communities her push for a treaty before a Voice. Australia is one of the only Commonwealth countries without a treaty with its First Nations peoples. The Gunnai, Gunditjmara and Djab Warrung woman claimed a Voice didn't have the ability to help these communities or improve the lives of First Nations people. From her time spent on the ground in these communities, Senator Thorpe said Indigenous people in the bush did not place much importance on the Voice. For them 'survival every day' was their primary concern, according to the senator. Senator Thorpe, who leads the 'progressive no' bloc, reiterated her push for a treaty before an Indigenous Voice The Gunnai, Gunditjmara and Djab Warrung woman believes nothing will change for Indigenous people regardless of whether the Yes or No vote gets up Senator Thorpe has specifically called for the implementation of recommendations from the 1991 Royal Commission into Aboriginal deaths in custody and Bringing Them Home report. She recently claimed the debate around the referendum was in fact doing more harm to the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. 'Our people are hurting more now, I think, than (during) the George Floyd moment,' she said, describing the referendum as an 'absolute nightmare'. 'There are communities being torn apart, families are fighting one another over Yes or No. 'What do we get at the end of the daywe get crumbs on the table. And that is not good enough.' The Voice referendum will be held on October 14. Mike Pence was left red-faced at the second Republican presidential debate on Wednesday night when his attempt at a joke fell flat, with the audience reacting with confusion and silence. The former vice president - who is currently fifth in the Republican polls behind Donald Trump, Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy - tried to win support with a clumsy joke about Joe Biden's visit to a union picket line. Biden on Tuesday became the first sitting president in U.S. history to visit a picket line. He traveled to Detroit to show his support for striking autoworkers. Pence declared: 'Joe Biden doesn't belong on a picket line - he belongs on the unemployment line.' The crowd failed to respond. Mike Pence on Wednesday declared on the debate stage: 'Joe Biden doesn't belong on a picket line - he belongs on the unemployment line.' The joke fell flat Pence, who has a meagre 4.6 percent of support in FiveThirtyEight's poll average, has often capitalized on his years of experience as a talk radio host. Yet his delivery disappointed, despite an arched eyebrow, and his attempt at levity fell flat. Pence, like most of the other six on the stage, struggled to rise above the chaotic fray during Wednesday's debate. The Fox Business moderators struggled to rein in the seven candidates, and the debate frequently descended into a shouting match with the viewers at home unable to hear what was being said. Candidates failed to answer questions and immediately pivoted to their own pre-prepared answers, sounding robotic and repeating slogans. Joe Biden is seen on Tuesday near Detroit, Michigan - becoming the first sitting president to show up at a picket line The seven candidates hoping to challenge Donald Trump for the nomination are seen on Wednesday night at the Reagan National Library in Simi Valley, California Trump, who has a seemingly unassailable lead over his Republican rivals, skipped the debate on Wednesday - the second in a row he has failed to attend. Chris Christie took particular aim at Trump for avoiding the debate, saying he was 'afraid of being on this stage and defending your record' - and labelling him 'Donald Duck'. Even DeSantis, who has been more conciliatory, took aim at Trump, declaring that the 77-year-old was 'missing in action'. Trump on Wednesday was in Detroit, giving his own speech to union workers. Two men have been killed and three were injured after a 'crew on crew' mass shooting in Washington DC. Cops said they were hunting three men after locals claimed '100 rounds were fired from an automatic weapon' during the attack in the north east of the city. Officers said they were dispatched at 9:50pm to the intersection of 14th Street and Saratoga Avenue to reports of the shooting. They said they found three men suffering gunshot wounds, with one later being taken to hospital after the other two dying at the scene. Investigators say two men walked into an area hospital looking for help following the shooting. Police have also said that the shooting is believed to have been 'crew on crew' which had happened due to 'historical beefs'. Police said they were dispatched at 9:50 p.m. to the intersection of 14th Street and Saratoga Avenue Officers had also been present in the area just a black away from the scene when the incident unfolded. Locals are asked to keep an eye out for a grey SUV with three men inside as they continue to look for the shooter. One local journalist said they heard close to 100 gun shots being fired in three separate incidents, all within ten minutes. Pictures and video taken at the scene shows a number of police vehicles at the scene. In a post to social media, the DC Police Department said: 'Shooting Investigation at 14th & Saratoga Ave NE. Lookout for (3) B/M's in a grey vehicle.' Speaking at the scene, Acting Chief of Police Pamela A. Smith said: 'At approximately 9:50pm tonight, fifth district officers responded to sounds of gunshots near the intersection of 14th Street and Saratoga Avenue. Pictures and video taken at the scene shows a number of police vehicles at the scene following the shooting 'When they arrived, officers located three people suffering from gunshot wounds. Two men were pronounced dead at the scene, a third was transported to an area hospital, with non life threatening injuries. 'A short time later two additional males arrived at an area hospital suffering from gunshot wounds. 'The preliminary investigation has revealed that the two victims were shot on this scene, and self transported to hospital. 'One victim is listed in critical condition, and the other has non life threatening injuries.' Acting Chief Pamela A. Smith provides an update to the homicide that occurred near the intersection of 14th Street and Saratoga Avenue, Northeast. pic.twitter.com/a4djkROUyH DC Police Department (@DCPoliceDept) September 28, 2023 Upon arrival, officers said they located three men reportedly suffering from gunshot wounds BREAKING NEWS: 4 PEOPLE SHOT: 14th & Saratoga Ave N.E: Mpd is on the scene of a mass shooting with 4 people shot 2 is critical and one is unconscious & not breathing so far. pic.twitter.com/BcCE13wcnV Killmoenetwork inc. (@Killmoenetwork) September 28, 2023 Answering questions from reporters, Chief Smith continued: 'We are having these crew on crew senseless arguments with firearms being introduced when folks have disputes as opposed to being able to resolve them. 'Our officers were present in this area, as they always are. The officer just so happened to be on another block when this incident occurred.' Smith added: 'We do have officers in areas were we find high crime in those particular areas, and we will continue to do that. 'I think that these are crew on crew, these are historical beefs that have continued to happen. I think guns are being entered into these disagreements. 'What we have to do is focus on how we can get some of these guns off the street. One woman FOX 5 spoke to in the neighborhood said it sounded like a 'war zone' when the shots were fired. So far, police have not disclosed any information regarding suspects or a motive. The decision to use a drag queen singing John Farnham's 'You're the Voice' to launch the Yes23 campaign for an Indigenous Voice in the United Kingdom has been greeted with astonishment and derision. The packed event in London on Wednesday night saw Australian musical theatre performer Daniel Downing strut to the podium in his drag persona Karla Bear. Donned in a sequined Australian flag bathing suit, Karla Bear began proceedings by proudly holding up the costume's Aboriginal flag motif wing. Karla Bear than launched into the iconic anthem, adding some basso voiced commentary about their advanced age after intoning the lyric: 'Before we get much older'. The crowd responded with laughter and scattered applause but joined in heartily during the chorus. The launch of the Yes23 campaign for an Indigenous Voice in the United Kingdom saw drag queen Karla Bear perform a rendition of 'You're the Voice' A lot going on at the Yes campaign's UK launch in London tonight.#TheVoice pic.twitter.com/1OKHF7ui9I Latika M Bourke (@latikambourke) September 27, 2023 READ MORE: Backlash erupts after Anthony Mundine declared that he wants to fight Thomas Mayo Advertisement Fairfax journalist Latika Bourke posted video of the event on X (formerly Twitter) with the deadpan commentary: 'A lot going on at the Yes campaign's UK launch in London tonight'. However, others were more forthcoming with their reactions. 'I refuse to believe this is real,' conservative constitutional law lecturer and media pundit Gray Connolly tweeted. Others were not impressed by the quality of the performance. 'Someone needs to have a conversation with John Farnham,' wrote one Twitter user with a laughing face emoji. 'Bizarre and just a tad embarrassing,' tweeted another. Another commented on the apparent lack of Indigenous representation. 'No Aboriginals. Just transgenders and academics WTH,' they wrote. Conservative law lecturer and media pundit Gary Connolly expressed his incredulity at what he was seeing The main speaker at the event was former Labor prime minister Julia Gillard. Ms Gillard said the Indigenous Voice to parliament, which will be decided on by the Australian public in a referendum on October 14, was vital to eliminating the social and economic disadvantages that Indigenous people suffer compared to other Australians. 'Progress is slower than we aimed for and in some the gap is getting bigger,' she said, pointing in particular towards the high rate of imprisonment for Indigenous people and the failing care of Aboriginal children. 'Why do we fail to meet the targets that we collectively as a nation have set ourselves to change?' Ms Gillard asked. Kara Bear is the drag persona of UK-based Australian musical theatre performer Daniel Downing 'I think that there is one explanation and that is because we haven't heard the voice of those who can truly make the biggest difference.' The Voice to parliament would mean that 'together we can sail on a journey that leads to a far more inclusive and reconciled future',' Ms Gillard argued. Donald Trump mocked his rivals for the Republican presidential nomination on Wednesday, saying none of them were worthy of being his running mate. Trump, who skipped the second GOP presidential primary debate to speak to union workers in Michigan, made a brief reference to the 'job candidates' that are competing with him for the top slot on the Republican ticket. Most of his remarks focused on President Joe Biden but he did refer to the 'the job candidates' who were preparing to take the debate stage halfway across the country in California. 'You know we're competing with the job candidates - they're all running for a job,' he said. 'They want to be anything, Secretary of something, even say VP. I don't know. Does anybody see any VP in the group? I don't think so.' Donald Trump mocked his Republican rivals, saying none were worthy of being his running mate Trump is leading in polls for the Republican presidential nomination by double digits. The seven candidates on the GOP debate stage are collectively polling at 36% in the RealClearPolitics polling average. If they were all one candidate, they would still be losing to Trump by 20 percent. There were seven Republican presidential contenders on the debate stage in California on Wednesday night: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, former Vice President Mike Pence, Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum. Trump still has to win the nomination. He's facing federal trials in Washington D.C. and Florida along with state trials in New York and Georgia that could take up much of his time early next year when the Republican primaries are taking place. He hasn't said who he wants on the ticket with him - should he win - but he has teased names like former Arizona Senate candidate Kari Lake and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. Much of Trump's comments on Wednesday night where focused on President Joe Biden. He called him a 'wretched old vulture' and a 'rotten politician' trying to 'rape and pillage' American jobs in a speech to auto workers attacking electric vehicles on Wednesday night. 'For decades you've watched rotten and crooked politicians like Biden treat American jobs as disposable and American workers as expendable. They sat back when we got rich by taking bribes to let other countries rape and pillage our jobs and our wealth,' he told supporters in Detroit. His focus on the president indicates Trump's campaign is moving past the primary stage and focusing on the general election, which is increasingly looking like a repeat match between Trump and Biden. From left to right, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy and Sen. Tim Scott on the debate stage Former Arizona Senate candidate Kari Lake (left) and Rep. Majorie Taylor Greene (right) have been mentioned as a possible Trump running mate At the GOP debate, taking place across the country at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif., the former president was a topic of conversation. Chris Christie was the first candidate on stage to roast Trump for missing the action. The former New Jersey governor stared straight at the camera and then delivered the blow. Donald, I know youre watching. You cant help yourself. I know youre watching, okay? said Christie, a former Trump advisor who now denounces the former president. And youre not here tonight not because of polls, and not because of your indictments. You're not here tonight, because you're afraid of being on the stage and defending your record.' Ron DeSantis also attacked Trump for being 'missing in action'. DeSantis compared Trump to Biden and asked why he wasn't on stage with the rest of the candidates in California. 'Where's Joe Biden, he's completely missing in action from leadership,' DeSantis said. 'And you know who else is missing in action?' the governor added. 'Donald Trump is missing in action. He should be on the stage tonight.' The former governor ripped into Trump, claiming that the country had to 'move on,' when Ramaswamy attempted to interject Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie took a dig at Vivek Ramaswamy as his presidential debate rival tried to defend Donald Trump. As Christie expressed his belief that the country should move on from Trump at Wednesday night's event, he suddenly turned his attention to Ramaswamy. 'Vivek, put your hand down for a second, would you?' he said, sounding like a disapproving schoolteacher. 'I still got time, dude, so chill out.' Following the momentary departure, he got back on topic about the former president. 'Look, this guy has not only divided our party, hes divided families all over this country. Hes divided friends all over this country. When Vivek Ramaswamy attempted to interrupt Chris Christie, the former New Jersey Governor stopped him dead in his tracks, ordering that he put his hand down and wait his turn 'Ive spoken to people and I know everyone else has who have sat at Thanksgiving dinner or at a birthday party and cant have a conversation anymore. If they disagree with Donald Trump, he needs to be off the island and he needs to be taken out of this process,' said Christie. When it was Ramaswamy's turn to speak, he began by calling Trump 'an excellent president.' He added: 'But the America first agenda does not belong to one man. It does not belong to Donald Trump. It doesnt belong to me. It belongs to you, the people of this country. And the question is, whos going to unite this country and take the America first agenda to the next level?' The Harvard and Yale grad, who has previously heaped praise on the 45th President, said he respected Trump 'because it's the right thing to do.' Ramaswamy has remained a staunch supporter of Trump, praising him throughout his campaign, and has been asked to outline his policy differences as they are so similar. He characterized himself and the 45th President as being 'deeply aligned on policy, 90-plus percent of the way' during a segment on Fox News at the end of August. The 38-year-old commended Trump during the first Republican presidential debate, referring to him as 'the best president of his lifetime.' Trump gave Ramaswamy his own version of glowing praise when he called in to Glenn Becks show on Blaze TV soon after the debate. When asked if he would consider the candidate as a running mate, Trump said: 'Well, I think hes great. Look, anybody that said Im the best president in a generation...I have to like a guy like that. 'Hes a smart guy. Hes a young guy. Hes got a lot of talent. Hes a very, very, very intelligent person,' Trump continued. He said he thought the presidential hopeful had 'good energy' and had 'really distinguished himself.' However, he acknowledged that Ramaswamy had started to get 'a little bit controversial' with more eyes on him. Christie continued his searing criticism of Trump, saying: 'This guy has not only divided our party, he's divided families all over this country' During his turn to talk, Ramaswamy upheld his staunch support of the former president, insisting that he respected Trump 'because it's the right thing to do' Despite the other GOP candidates' efforts during the debate, Trump remains the clear frontrunner according to the latest polling data Ramaswamy shook hands with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who remains Trump's closest opponent - but by a sizable margin Christie was seen chatting with Nikki Haley, who took a pass at Ramaswamy herself when she criticized his decision to start a TikTok account Trump complimented the young entrepreneur back in August, calling him 'intelligent' and someone with 'a lot of talent' Christie has maintained an opposing view. During a June interview with CNN's Jake Tapper, the former governor said he had been 'wrong' about Trump 'I couldnt make him a better candidate and I couldnt make him a better president, and he disappointed me,' Christie said. He referred to election night 2020 as 'the breaking point.' Now, the man he backed - twice - and advised ahead of the 2020 election has become his rival. Christie took plenty of shots at Trump during Wednesday's debate, even addressing the former president personally. 'I want to look at that camera right now,' he said. 'Donald, I know you're watching. You can't help yourself. I know you're watching. Okay. And you're not here tonight, not because of polls and not because of your indictments. 'You're not here tonight because you're afraid of being on the stage and defending record. You're ducking these things. And let me tell you what's going to happen. You keep doing that. No one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore. We're going to call you Donald Duck.' The latest national FiveThirtyEight poll shows Ramaswamy ahead of Christie, polling at 6.3 percent to Christie's 2.9 percent. Trump remains ahead of the pack, polling at 54 percent. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis trails behind Trump with a sizable margin at 13.8 percent. He has struggled to take on the frontrunner without alienating a Republican base that worships the former president. During Wednesday's debate, DeSantis sharpened his approach, using his first answer to criticize Trump for avoiding the confrontation with other candidates and for adding to the national debt during his term. Republican strategist John Feehery gave DeSantis 'the clear victory' for his performance in the debate - 'outside of Trump for staying away.' Shoppers have been warned to 'immediately stop using' a popular food processor which injured owners after exposed blades rotated due to a flaw. An urgent recall notice was issued for the Brooklyn BMC 300 'mini food chopper', sold at Target, after customers reported they had been hurt. The machine can operate even when not attached to the bowl, exposing consumers to the choppers rotating blades. There is a risk of serious injury including lacerations. This defect has occurred and caused injuries, the product safety division of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission said this week. Shoppers have been warned to 'immediately stop using' the Brooklyn BMC 300 'mini food chopper' which injured owners due to a flaw Product Safety Australia said Australians should immediately stop using the food processor As a result the hazards are 'a risk of serious injury including lacerations'. 'This defect has occurred and caused injuries,' the ACCC said.It was sold nationally in Target stores between June 8 and August 7 this year. The metallic food processor comes with a 300ml glass bowl and has three blades extending from the blade unit. The mini chopper's instruction manual warns the blades are 'very sharp' and 'will cause harm if not handled carefully'. The ACCC says people should immediately stop using the product and return it to Target for a full refund. His mom Scarlett earlier called for him to turn himself in amid fears he'd be shot Billingsley, 32, is a repeat offender and hunted over death of the Baltimore CEO Jason Billingsley, the suspect in the murder of Pava LaPere, was arrested tonight The prime suspect in the brutal murder of a tech startup CEO in Baltimore has finally been arrested after two days on the run. Jason Billingsley, 32, was apprehended on Wednesday by cops at a train station around 30 miles from where Pava LaPere, 26, was found bludgeoned to death. Billingsley was tracked by law enforcement to the MARC Train Station on Laurel-Bowie Road in Bowie, Prince George's County, at 11.10pm. Sources close to the investigation told Fox News Billingsley was taken into custody without incident. It comes after LaPere was found dead at her apartment complex in 300 block of West Franklin street on Monday. Jason Billingsley, 32, the suspect wanted for the brutal murder of Baltimore technology CEO Pava LaPere, was arrested on Wednesday night Cops said a press conference will be held on the arrest at 11am Thursday but did not offer more details. Maryland became the 18th U.S. state to abolish the death penalty in 2013 when Governor Martin O'Malley signed a bill outlawing capital punishment in the state. Billingsley's mom, Scarlett, earlier apologized to the victim's family - and said she doesn't understand what could have motivated her son if he is responsible. Her son has a sordid history of sexual crimes, including strangling and raping a woman at knifepoint which landed him with a 30-year prison sentence. Billingsley's mother, Scarlett, apologized profoundly to LaPere's family, saying: 'If my son did it, I really apologize because I don't know what happened to make him do that' The 305lbs, 6'4 ex-con was named a suspect in LaPere's murder, and his mother begged for him to turn himself in when she last heard from him on Tuesday. 'I told him that he needs to turn himself in, but I really don't think he's going to do that because he's scared,' she told WJZ. 'I don't know where he is, he don't even call me but I've been trying to call him. He texted me one time to say that he's OK.' After seeing his face on a TV news report she said: 'I screamed. I cried. I can't understand what happened...that he would do something like that. 'I am so sorry that this happened to her, and if my son did it, I really apologize because I don't know what happened to make him do that.' Shocking details of the crime which landed Billingsley with a 30-year sentence - before he was freed after just seven years for good behavior - came to light Wednesday. LaPere's battered body was found on the rooftop of her apartment building. She is not believed to have known Billingsley LaPere was described as having 'untiring commitment' to her company and to the city of Baltimore She was a member of the Forbes 30 Under 30 class of 2023 Billingsley had posed as a Good Samaritan before he strangled and raped a woman in her 20s at knifepoint in 2013. He approached her as she sat in the street in the wake of a 'verbal argument' with her boyfriend. He introduced himself as 'Jason' and asked the distressed woman, who is now 35, what was wrong before offering her a place to stay for the night. Billingsley was released from prison in October 2022 for 'good behavior credits,' despite being sentenced for strangling a woman and raping her at knifepoint years earlier But when they got to the location he told her they would have to climb through an unlocked window as he had lost his keys, according to court records. 'They both sat on a bed and talked. She states that 'Jason' told her he wanted to have sex with her. And at that time she told him that she wanted to leave,' the complaint reads. 'Jason then struck her on the face and placed both his hands around her neck. He began to apply pressure around her neck. He told her she was going to do what he said or he was going to shoot her.' 'He told her to get on her knees in front of him. She stated that she complied and got on her knees in fear he would harm her.' After forcing the woman to perform oral sex, Billingsley took $53 from her wallet. As he left the house, he growled: 'You better not tell anyone about this. My aunt is a police officer. Know one (sic) will believe you,' according to the complaint. He was hit with charges including attempted first-degree rape, false imprisonment and assault and was sentenced in 2015. Of the 30-year sentence, 16 years were suspended and five years were supervised probation. The 32-year-old, pictured here with his mother, has a sordid history of violent sexual attacks People flooded a vigil held in memory of the CEO on Wednesday Billingsley, who remains on the run, is considered armed and dangerous and is said to be a suspect in 'at least one other case' With good behavior credits he was able to walk free in October last year despite having an original release date of 2043. Billingsley committed his first assault in 2009 at age 18 before committing a second in 2011. He served a two-year prison sentence for the second attack. Police issued a fresh arrest warrant for him Tuesday along with a stark warning to the public that the convicted sex offender has a warped history of rape and violence. He remains listed as a Tier 3 sex offender, the most serious of the classifications. Billingsley was also connected to an attempted arson, murder, and rape on September 19 that left two victims with critical burn injuries, a source told the DailyMail.com. Evidence in that case linked Billingsley to LaPere's death a week later. Police found the 26-year-old Johns Hopkins grad inside her apartment on September 25, showing signs of blunt-force trauma. She was the founder and CEO of EcoMap Technologies, a Baltimore-based tech start-up. Billingsley is not believed to have known LaPere, who lived on the seventh floor of the building and whose beaten body was found on the roof. Scarlett said she told her son to surrender in connection with the entrepreneur's death, but: 'I really don't think he's going to do that because he's scared' The start-up founder's body showed signs of 'blunt-force trauma,' according to police On Wednsesday night, a remembrance ceremony was held for LaPere at the Washington Monument in Mount Vernon. Her tearful father, Frank LaPere, told her friends and co-workers: 'We're going to take her away from Baltimore, but her presence will never leave here. 'She's always, always been a leader. Always been driven and creative, always intended to be a high achiever - didn't mention it or say it or anything, but you could just tell she knew what she wanted to accomplish and there was nothing that could get in her way.' The crowd then held a minute of noise for LaPere, after her former roommate said she would have preferred that to a minute's silence. EcoMap hosted a vigil for their founder the night of September 26. It was held on the south steps of the Washington Monument in Mount Vernon. A statement from the company described LaPere as a 'leader, friend and partner' with an 'untiring commitment to our company, to Baltimore, to amplifying the critical work of ecosystems across the country, and to building a deeply inclusive culture.' Members of LaPere's family spoke during the vigil to honor the slain entrepreneur The family of Pava Marie LePere at her Memorial vigil In Baltimore on Wednesday night Pava LaPere's father Frank breaks down in tears at her vigil on Wednesday During a news conference on September 26, Mayor Brandon Scott said that Billingsley should not have been released from prison. 'The conviction should be the conviction,' he said, 'and we have to make sure that folks are held accountable in every single way because we are tired about hearing the same people committing the same type of crimes over and over again.' Acting Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley echoed the sentiment, warning that Billingsley would 'kill and rape again' if he was not apprehended. In his closing remarks on the same day, Worley said: 'Before we end, I just have a message for Jason Billingsley. 'If you're out there watching - hopefully you are - every single police officer in Baltimore City, the state of Maryland, as well as the U.S. Marshals are looking for you. 'We will find you.' Flight captain infuses 'Asian Games flights' with passion and care People's Daily Online) 14:48, September 28, 2023 Flying with Loong Airlines, meeting the Asian Games. Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking. Welcome aboard the flight of Zhejiang Loong Airlines, an official partner of the Hangzhou Asian Games Since being promoted to captain in April, this has been the announcement Song Haiyan makes on each of her flights, marking one of her proudest moments. With her eyes on the panels and fingers moving among a plethora of buttons in the cockpit, Song has maintained a meticulous attitude from day one. Song Haiyan practices in a simulator. (Peoples Daily Online/Ai Yutao) As a minority in a male-dominated profession, female captains often face higher expertise requirements. It took Song seven years to transition from a trainee to a plane captain, fully trained by Loong Airlines. Song Haiyan inspects the cabin before a flight. (Peoples Daily Online/Ai Yutao) We are required to take an examination in the flight simulator once every six months, ensuring that each of us can react appropriately during emergencies, said Song, adding that only by mastering all the flight regulations can she ensure a comfortable flight experience for every passenger. Since May 2023, Loong Airlines has operated many Asian Games flights, bringing additional responsibilities to Song. I am ready for the Asian Games and very proud to be a part of it, she said. Song Haiyan inspects the status of the plane before a flight. (Peoples Daily Online/Ai Yutao) My favorite sport is swimming, and I will bring my daughter along to cheer for China when I have a day off, Song said, I hope all the athletes can create precious memories here, as Hangzhou is a beautiful city. Related: Local artisan lights up Hangzhou Asian Games with traditional lantern making technique Locals craft birthday bouquets for Hangzhou Asian Games Local taxi driver showcases Hangzhou's hospitality with enthusiasm and language skills Retired army veteran takes charge of flag raising for Hangzhou Asian Games How first set of kinetic pictograms for Asian Games is made Inheritor creates ceramic work to celebrate upcoming Asian Games (Web editor: Peng Yukai, Du Mingming) New text messages have revealed how Hunter Biden told his uncle James in December 2018 he had run out money and needed his father's help. The now-first son told James Biden in text messages revealed in IRS whistleblower documents that he was broke and couldn't pay alimony. In the messages dated December 29, 2018, he wrote: 'I can work when I'm in NYC all day every day for the next 3 months from 8-12. But I can't pay alimony w/o Dad or tuitions or for food and gas. 'Really it's all gone. I can go make it up in 15/20 days I'm sure, but he's basically made it clear that he's not paying alimony b/c Mom made clear that she won't do it.' Hunter, 53, also talks about moving into his father's Delaware mansion following the collapse of his relationship with his sister-in-law turned lover Hallie Biden. President Joe Biden, and his son Hunter Biden arrive in Washington, June 25, 2023 James and Sara Biden arrive at the White House to attend the State Dinner for South Korea, Thursday, Oct. 13, 2011 The text continues: 'Hallie wont allow me to be at the house or lend me or pay me back any money. 'Ashley moves into momoms house after I told dad that I would move in there. 'That night I tell dad I want to probably stay in the area and specifically I wanted to live by you and teach my course at Penn and maybe develop another on.' In response, James Biden said: 'This can work, you need a safe harbor. I can work with you father alone!! 'We as usual just need several months of his help for this to work. Let's talk about it. It makes perfect sense to me. This is difficult to fully vet without talking. 'Will you please call me on w/A. We can develop a plan together. It can work. I'm going to try to call yo again please Ans.' The exchange was revealed in a litany of documents released by the House Ways and Means Committee earlier this week. The text exchange muddles claims made by Hunter to his daughter Naomi in January 2019 in which he claimed he gave half his salary to his Father. It comes just days after financial records obtained by Congress revealed Chinese businesses sent $250,000 to Joe Biden's private home in 2019. The payments came in two wire transfers to Hunter Biden who listed his father's house in Wilmington, Delaware as his own address. The now-first son told his Uncle James Biden in text messages revealed in IRS whistleblower documents that he was broke and couldn't pay alimony The records state that Joe's Wilmington, Delaware, home at '1209 Barley Mill Rd' was listed as the beneficiary address It comes just days after financial records obtained by Congress revealed Chinese businesses sent $250,000 to Joe Biden's private home in 2019. The payments came in two wire transfers to Hunter Biden who listed his father's house in Wilmington, Delaware as his own address. The revelation marked a stunning escalation of the investigation into whether Joe Biden benefitted from Hunter's business dealings in countries including China and Ukraine. James Comer, the chair of the House Oversight and Accountability committee, obtained bank records through a subpoena and they that showed Hunter received payments from Beijing in 2019, while his father was a private citizen. The records state that Joe Biden's Wilmington, Delaware, home at '1209 Barley Mill Rd' was the beneficiary address. Joe Biden 's Delaware home was listed as the beneficiary address on two wire transfers Hunter Biden received from China, a top Republican says after obtaining bank records. Hunter is seen in his father's Corvette outside the home Hunter is believed to have lived there for two years following his divorce from first wife Kathleen Buhle in 2017. The first wire on July 26, 2019, for $100,000 came from a Ms. Wang Xin, who is listed on the website for Beijing equity firm BHR Partners. The second was allegedly from Jonathan Li, the Chinese national Hunter supposedly threatened over WhatsApp while Joe was in the room. 'I am sitting here waiting for the call with my father', Hunter said to Li in the messages revealed by an IRS whistleblower. Comer, who has been investigating the Biden family and their overseas deals, subpoenaed financial records from a specific bank account connected to Hunter. That revelation came just two weeks after Hunter was indicted on three felony charges for lying about his addiction to crack cocaine when buying a gun. Hunter will have to appear in court after a Delaware grand jury returned three charges against him, including two counts of false statements on his gun forms, and one of possessing a firearm while addicted to illicit drugs. It is a shattering blow for President Joe Biden who has stood by his son and is running for reelection in 2024. Hunter Biden departs federal court after a plea hearing on two misdemeanor charges of willfully failing to pay income taxes in Wilmington, Delaware, U.S. July 26, 2023 Hunter allegedly lied on a firearm report (above) required for his gun transaction. A photo of the form shows he answered 'no' when asked if he was an 'unlawful user of, or addicted to, marijuana or any depressant, stimulant, narcotic drug, or any other controlled substance' The move by Special Counsel Davis Weiss is a significant escalation in his investigation into the president's son for gun and tax crimes, which is still ongoing. Republicans allege that Hunter is guilty of even more felonies and that Weiss' indictment on just the gun charges is insufficient. The maximum time in prison would be 25 years total if he is convicted on all of the counts, although federal sentences are usually less than the maximum. Hunter could also be slapped with a max $250,000 fine and three years probation. According to the indictment, Hunter lied about his drug use when he purchased a gun in 2018. The First Son purchased a 0.38 Colt Cobra caliber pistol in Delaware, a state that makes any buyer answer a series of questions before they can lay their hands on a weapon. One from the 2018 application asks if the applicant uses or is addicted to drugs. The box is clearly checked 'no.' Hunter has admitted that he was addicted to crack cocaine at the time of the gun purchase. A picture from Hunter Biden's laptop showed the now 53-year-old first son posing nude with a firearm Hunter Biden is seen in a picture discovered on his abandoned laptop Video discovered on Hunter's laptop computer shows him naked and brandishing a handgun in a hotel room in 2018, allegedly five days after buying the gun. About two weeks later his lover and brother's widow Hallie Biden found it 'unlocked' in his truck and threw it in a grocery store trash can. Its discovery sparked a police investigation. In addition, now-President Biden sounded close to tears in the voicemail left on Hunter's abandoned laptop on October 15 - three days after Hunter bought the gun and lied about being a drug addict - begging him to get help. 'It's Dad. I called to tell you I love you. I love you more than the whole world pal,' Joe said in the October 15 message. 'You gotta get some help. I know you don't know what to do, I don't either.' Earlier this summer, the president's son had reached a deal after the five-year investigation that would have allowed him to avoid trial for the firearms charges if he abided by parole conditions over 24 months. Republicans in Washington complained that the president's son had gotten himself a 'sweetheart deal' designed to protect President Biden. However, the plea deal spectacularly fell apart in court in July, opening Hunter up to new charges. The collapse of Hunter Biden's original plea deal also presented more problems for his father, Joe Biden. The president is now facing more headlines and questions involving his drug-addict son's case as he hits the 2024 campaign trail. The White House and the president himself have maintained that he has never been involved in Hunter's business dealings. A man has been rushed to hospital after he was set on fire during a terrifying pre-dawn attack, before seeking help at a nearby McDonalds. Emergency services were called to the fast-food store at King St in Newcastle, on the NSW Hunter Coast, shortly after 3am on Thursday. The victim, a 23-year-old man, had reportedly been kicked and punched by two other men who then attempted to set him alight near a building site. Despite suffering sever burns, he managed to stagger around 200 metres to a nearby McDonald's where horrified staff rang an ambulance. He was rushed to John Hunter Hospital before being transferred to Royal North Shore's specialist burns unit, where he remained in a serious but stable condition. Emergency services were called to the fast-food store at King St after reports of a man suffering serious burns. Picture: Google The motive for the attack is unclear. Police have since established a crime scene with investigations underway into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Local media reported that officer believed the man was involved in an altercation with two men in the busy street in Newcastle Vivek Ramaswamy controversially described 'transgenderism' as a 'mental health disorder' during Wednesday's debate, after moderator Dana Perino tried to coax a softball answer about parental notification laws out of the political newcomer. Flanked by rivals such as Nikki Haley, Tim Scott, and Chris Christie, the 38-year-old businessman from Ohio instead insisted 'parents have a right to know' about prospective transitions, and that 'it is not compassionate to affirm a kid's confusion.' Attacking schools that have refused to tell parents about their childrens transitions, he said that as president, he would pass a federal law permanently outlawing procedures he called 'genital mutilation.' To make his point, Ramaswamy - a billionaire - mentioned encountering two young women early in his campaign who transitioned in their youth, but later had regrets as adults. Citing how one of the women had an irreversible hysterectomy in their abandoned bid and can never have children, he slammed such surgeries as 'barbaric' - earning visible surprise from some of the other six candidates. Scroll down for video: Vivek Ramaswamy controversially described 'transgenderism' as a 'mental health disorder' during Wednesday's debate To make his point, Ramaswamy - a billionaire - mentioned encountering two young women - (from left) Katie Anderson and Chloe Cole - early in his campaign who transitioned as kids, but later had regrets as adults After being asked about the prospective law - one that Christie, among others, rejects - an animated Ramaswamy began: 'I have to be very clear about this. 'Transgenderism - especially in kids - is a mental health disorder. We have to acknowledge the truth of that for what it is.' Before embarking on his anecdote, the mogul - who has never held a political position - was interrupted by former White House Press Secretary Perino, who appeared puzzled by the politician's potentially polarizing assertion. Her interjection appeared to only fuel the pharma figure's fervor, leading him to double down on what he had just said. 'Parents have the right to know,' Ramaswamy stressed, before later taking to X - formerly Twitter - to again recommit to his declaration. Both in-person and online, the aspiring politico cited NIH statistics that show how gender dysphoria have led to increased rates of suicide, and claimed operations like mastectomies and vaginoplasties were far from a credible solution. In fact, he called such surgeries 'barbaric,' and categorized teachers' and other outsiders' encouragement of them as malicious, 'Im sorry - It is not compassionate to affirm a kid's confusion,' he said. 'That is not compassion. That is cruelty.' Flanked by rivals such as Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis, and Mike Pence, the 38-year-old businessman from Ohio instead insisted 'parents have a right to know' about prospective transitions, and that 'it is not compassionate to affirm a kid's confusion' After a brief pause, Ramaswamy proceeded to recount his meeting five months ago two members of the growing 'detransition' movement - Katie Anderson of Massachusetts and Chloe Cole of California. Both women, now in their 20s, underwent gender-reaffirming surgeries to become men as minors, but have since come to different realizations. They now tour the country to preach the dangers of acting on children's initial feelings of gender dysphoria too early, and have amassed a following well into the thousands. Cole, Ramaswamy recalled, had a double mastectomy, while Anderson - who has a book Confronting the Lies: My Struggle with Gender Dysphoria - got that surgery as well, in additon to a more serious hysterectomy. Referring to the removal of ones uterus, Ramaswamy cited how Anderson now could never have children due to their decision. 'The fact we allowed that to happen in this country is barbaric. So I will ban genital mutilation, chemical castration.' In an ensuing post to X immediately after the debate concluded, Ramaswamy - who many pegged as the winner of the previous debate - elaborated on his earlier statement, while resharing footage of it to show his seriousness about the subject In an ensuing post to X immediately after the debate concluded, Ramaswamy - who many pegged as the winner of the previous debate - elaborated on his earlier statement, while resharing footage of it to show his seriousness about the subject. 'More than 50% of kids with gender dysphoria have considered suicide,' he said, citing recent government data. 'And yet politicians reject a law that would require schools to inform parents if their kids change their gender identity at school. 'Parents have a right to know about their kids,' he continued, adding 'That shouldnt be controversial. 'Ban genital mutilation & puberty blockers before age 18. Treat gender dysphoria as a mental health disorder.' He added: 'Time to empower parents again.' Shocking footage has emerged of a man performing a reckless late-night stunt after he climbed onto the roof of a shopping centre in a popular mall before he jumped onto two huge balls. The man was seen standing on top of the roof outside Adelaide Central Plaza in the city's famous Rundle Mall on Wednesday night. In the video several bystanders standing below are heard encouraging the man who is dressed in a grey hoodie and black pants to jump from the roof. 'Bro we could actually witness a death right now,' one bystander who filmed the video says. Sporting a hoodie and wearing a face mask, the man begins to walk casually across the transparent roof. He then proceeds to walk to the edge of the roof before he jumps on top of two giant silver spheres fitted on top of each other known as 'Mall's Balls'. Several women seen standing next to the structure below can be heard screaming as the man miraculously landed safety on the massive art installation. Pleased with pulling off the dangerous stunt, the man acknowledges the jaw-dropping moment by stretching his arms out wide. The small crowd of bystanders down below cheer him on approvingly as he remains standing on the four-metre stainless steel structure. The man dressed in a grey hoodie and black pants (pictured) jumped from the roof of the Adelaide Central Plaza onto the giant Mall's Balls structure in a dangerous late-night stunt The man then appears to put his hands inside the pockets of his hoodie as he begins to move around while looking down below to the ground. 'How are you going to get down, bro?' a person can be heard asking the man. The man filming the video then tells another man to stand in front of the giant structure. 'Look at how high that is,' he says. The man on top of the spheres then takes his phone out and appears to take a picture of himself. The video then pans over to another man wearing a white shirt and jeans who warns the man that he will get caught for the reckless act. 'I hope you do know you will be arrested' he says. The man is then seen sitting on top of the sphere before he slides off the ball and jumps down to the ground. 'Are you good bro?' one man is heard asking as the man begins to walk towards several people filming the scene and then shakes the hand of another man, seemingly proud of his work. The man didn't appear to be injured following the terrifying stunt. The man in a hoodie and a face mask (pictured) stood on top of the giant balls after pulling off the dangerous stunt, stretching his arms out wide and seemingly proud of his reckless act After standing on top the giant four-metre spheres for several minutes, the man then slides off the top of the structure before he jumps to the ground (pictured) South Australia Police told Daily Mail Australia they had been informed of the incident. 'Police are aware of the video on social media and are investigating,' a police spokesperson said. 'The mans actions are dangerous and reckless with potential to cause serious injury to himself or others. 'Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000'. A security official from Rundle Mall told Daily Mail they were unaware of the incident and referred the matter to a spokesperson who is yet to provide comment. The latest incident follows the act of a reckless daredevil who scaled the roof of the same shopping centre in 2018 before he jumped onto the huge spheres. The Mall's Balls has become an iconic attraction in Rundle Mall. The mall houses over 700 retail stores with thousands of locals and tourist flocking to the popular shopping precinct every week. A teacher is accused of indecently mistreated a child for more than a year at several places across the Gold Coast, including at a popular shopping centre and hotel. Hayley Maree Cassell, of Hope Island, was charged in June with 74 offences of indecent treatment of a child. Police also charged her with a string of other offences, including grooming and attempting to pervert justice. The charges came about after a woman came forward to police and complained about Ms Cassell's alleged indecent treatment of her, when the accuser was a teenager. Hayley Maree Cassell (pictured above) allegedly indecently mistreated a child for more than a year at a Gold Coast hotel, private addresses and a major shopping centre Court documents said the 32-year-old is facing 74 charges of indecent treatment of a child under 16. She is also charged with one count each of grooming, an offence of 'observations or recordings in breach of privacy' and attempting to pervert the course of justice. Court documents allege the offences took place in various locations across the Gold Coast, including Australia Fair in Southport, a hotel and several home addresses. The court documents stated the grooming charges allegedly occurred between January 27, 2015 and July 28, 2016. They said she allegedly 'engaged in conduct' in relation to a person under 16 'with intent to facilitate the procurement to engage in a sexual act'. Another indecent treatment offence is alleged to have taken place in Brisbane, according to court documents. Police allege in court documents the offences took place in various locations across the Gold Coast, including Australia Fair in Southport Her charge of attempting to pervert justice involves her allegedly making a false statement under oath for a judicial proceeding on July 10, 2017. Ms Cassell, who remains on bail, was not required to attend Southport Magistrates Court when her matter was briefly mentioned on Thursday. Magistrate Kerry Magee ordered a brief of evidence be disclosed to Ms Cassell's lawyer, Thomas McKee, by November 2. The matter will be mentioned again on November 11. Donald Trump's campaign wants the remaining presidential to be cancelled, after the former president skipped the first two without yet paying any kind of political penalty. Trump's senior campaign advisor Chris LaCivita ripped the two-hour smackdown on Fox Business channel minutes after it ended labeling it 'boring,' something Trump refuses to abide. 'Tonights GOP debate was as boring and inconsequential as the first debate, and nothing that was said will change the dynamics of the primary contest being dominated by President Trump,' LaCivita wrote, weighing in on the debate where two candidates, Chris Christie and Ron DeSantis, called out Trump for avoiding. 'The RNC should immediately put an end to any further primary debates so we can train our fire on Crooked Joe Biden and quit wasting time and money that could be going to evicting Biden from the White House,' he added. Trump senior advisor Chris LaCivita called on the RNC to cancel future presidential debates after Wednesday's 'boring' contest The blast would seem to suggest a Trump won't participate in the next contest, set for Miami on November 8. Christie turned to the camera to scold Trump during the debate. 'Donald, I know youre watching. You cant help yourself,' he said. 'Youre ducking these things. And let me tell you whats going to happen. You keep doing that, no one heres going to call you Donald Trump anymore. Were going to call you Donald Duck.' DeSantis, who is trying to use the debates to vault herself as a Trump alternative, called him 'missing in action' and called attention to the $7.8 trillion added to the national debt during his four-year term. The debate featured moderator Dana Perino threatening to turn off North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum's (l) mic after he tried to interject. New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie called Trump 'Donald Duck' for not attending The attack may have irked the Trump camp. After the debate, Donald Trump Jr. posted video of a makeup artist applying foundation to DeSantis' face under the spotlights before the event. The post called him 'Rhonda Santis.' Eric Trump said the debate was 'unwatchable What a train-wreck.' The event did have some highlights, even without the clear frontrunner for the GOP nomination on stage. Christie slammed President Biden for 'sleeping with a member of the teacher's union' first lady Jill Biden. Former Vice President Mike Pence said 'Ive been sleeping with a teacher for 38 years full disclosure' in one odd moment Former U.S. President Donald Trump skipped the debate and spoke in Michigan instead Trump's senior advisor Chris LaCivita called the debate 'boring and inconsequential and said the RNC should cancel future contests Former Vice President Mike Pence confessed: 'Ive been sleeping with a teacher for 38 years full disclosure,' in reference to his wife, Karen. Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina accused his state's former governor Nikki Haley of accepting $50,000 curtains for her official government apartment when she was UN ambassador. She shot back that they were ordered by the Obama administration. It also featured plenty of cross-talk and bickering, among a group Trump suggested were auditioning for vice president or cabinet posts. 'Honestly, every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber for what you say,' Haley told 38-year-old entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy. Kim Jong Un has demanded an 'exponential' boost in the production of modern atomic weapons as the dictator declared North Korea a nuclear power. The despot also called for his country to play a larger role in a coalition of nations confronting the United States in a 'new Cold War' during a two-day session of the country's rubber-stamp parliament. It was during this session that Kim and his cronies enshrined North Korea's status as a nuclear power in its constitution. The Supreme People's Assembly's session on Tuesday and Wednesday came after Kim traveled to Russia's Far East this month to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin and visit military and technology sites. The trip sparked Western concerns about a possible arms alliance in which North Korea would supply Putin with badly needed munitions to fuel his war on Ukraine in exchange for economic aid and advanced Russian technologies to enhance North Korea's nuclear and missile systems. As North Korea slowly ends its pandemic lockdown, Kim has been actively boosting his partnerships with Moscow and Beijing as he attempts to break out of diplomatic isolation and join a united front against Washington. Kim Jong Un has demanded an 'exponential' boost in the production of modern atomic weapons as the dictator declared North Korea a nuclear power This photo provided by the North Korean government shows what it says is an intercontinental ballistic missile in a launching drill at the Sunan international airport in Pyongyang, North Korea on March 16, 2023 The despot also called for his country to play a larger role in a coalition of nations confronting the United States in a 'new Cold War' during a two-day session of the country's rubber-stamp parliament (pictured) He has described the world as entering a 'new Cold War' and that North Korea should advance its nuclear capabilities in response. Despite international sanctions over its nuclear weapons programme, North Korea has conducted a record number of missile tests this year, ignoring warnings from the United States, South Korea and their allies. Diplomatic efforts to convince Pyongyang to give up its atomic arsenal failed, and the constitutional change came after Kim's declaration last year that North Korea was an 'irreversible' nuclear weapons state. Kim said North Korea needed nuclear weapons to counter an existential threat from the United States and its allies. The United States has 'maximized its nuclear war threats to our Republic by resuming the large-scale nuclear war joint drills with clear aggressive nature and putting the deployment of its strategic nuclear assets near the Korean peninsula on a permanent basis', he said. Kim described the recently enhanced security cooperation between Washington, Seoul and Tokyo as the 'worst actual threat'. He accused them of creating the 'Asian version of NATO, the root cause of war and aggression.' 'This is just the worst actual threat, not threatening rhetoric or an imaginary entity,' he said. It was during this session that Kim and his cronies enshrined North Korea's status as a nuclear power in its constitution The 9th Session of the 14th Supreme People's Assembly of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is held at the Mansudae Assembly Hall, in Pyongyang, North Korea As a result, he added, 'it is very important for the DPRK to accelerate the modernization of nuclear weapons in order to hold the definite edge of strategic deterrence'. Kim also 'stressed the need to push ahead with the work for exponentially boosting the production of nuclear weapons and diversifying the nuclear strike means', according to KCNA. KCNA said members of the assembly gave unanimous approval to a new clause in the constitution to 'ensure the country's right to existence and development, deter war and protect regional and global peace by rapidly developing nuclear weapons to a higher level.' North Korea's 'nuclear force-building policy has been made permanent as the basic law of the state, which no one is allowed to flout with anything,' Kim said in a speech at the assembly He stressed the need to 'push ahead with the work for exponentially boosting the production of nuclear weapons and diversifying the nuclear strike means.' Kim said North Korea needed nuclear weapons to counter an existential threat from the United States and its allies during the parliament session This picture taken on July 12, 2023 shows the test firing of a new intercontinental ballistic missile at an undisclosed location in North Korea Neighbouring Japan, however, said North Korea's atomic weapons programme was 'absolutely unacceptable'. 'North Korea's nuclear and missile development threatens the peace and security of our country and the international community,' Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said Thursday in response to the constitutional change. 'We will cooperate with the United States, South Korea and the rest of the international community towards the full implementation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the full denuclearisation of North Korea.' With North Korea's nuclear status enshrined in the constitution, prospects of convincing its leadership to give up atomic weapons have dimmed, experts said. 'Kim's speech... signifies the permanence of his nuclear force,' Yang Moon-jin, president of the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul, told AFP. 'This pushes the prospect of North Korea's denuclearisation even further away.' North Korea's weapons tests this year included intercontinental ballistic missiles, and its military this month conducted what it described as simulations of a 'tactical nuclear attack'. Pyongyang has also tried and failed twice this year to put a military spy satellite in orbit. South Korea and the United States have ramped up their security cooperation in response, with large-scale joint drills and trilateral naval exercises with Japan. The last known North Korean weapons test, involving two short-range ballistic missiles, took place while Kim was on his way to meet President Vladimir Putin in Russia. Kim's visit to Russia - his first abroad since the coronavirus pandemic - fanned Western fears that Moscow and Pyongyang will defy sanctions and strike an arms deal. Russia is believed to be interested in buying North Korean ammunition for its war in Ukraine, while Pyongyang wants Russian help with its missile and space programmes. Kim's Russia visit 'and the potential strengthening of military cooperation (with Moscow) indicate an increased dedication towards branding itself into a formidable nuclear power', said Yang at the University of North Korean Studies. Looting has rocked Philadelphia for a second night in a row as brazen thieves ransacked a liquor store. Shocking footage out of the City of Brotherly Love showed Fine Wine And Good Spirits smashed apart in the latest flash rob mob crime. The brutes made off with the safe and raided the lottery machine on a night when liquor stores were shut down by the authorities. Fox29's Steve Keeley, who originally reported on Wednesday night's thefts, later posted videos showing the aftermath of some looting that occurred at a sneaker warehouse in the city. Video posted on X by Keely showed piles of boxes that had been torn into. A source told the reporter: 'It may be a Snipes warehouse. It appears they took all they could and left a lot behind.' It comes a day after young thieves brawled with cops on the streets after mass looting at Footlocker, Lululemon and Apple. Among those arrested was social media personality Dayjia 'Meatball' Blackwell, 21. The suspect cried after she was charged with burglary, conspiracy, criminal trespass, riot, criminal mischief, criminal use of communication facility, receipt of stolen property and disorderly conduct. Shocking footage out of the City of Brotherly Love showed Fine Wine And Good Spirits smashed apart in the latest flash rob mob crime BREAKING: 2nd Night of Looting Now in Philadelphia. Again PA state liquor store was hit. Bottles dropped outside by looters as @PhillyPolice arrived. This is on Adams Ave. Police just made at one arrest where a sneaker store on Torresdale Ave was being looted too. pic.twitter.com/gVCDLJ6Jx8 Steve Keeley (@KeeleyFox29) September 28, 2023 Police said they made at least 52 arrests. Burglary, theft and other counts have been filed so far against at least 30 people, all but three of them adults, according to Jane Roh, spokesperson for the Philadelphia district attorney's office. The flash mob-style ransacking Tuesday night at dozens of stores came after a peaceful protest over a judge's decision to dismiss murder and other charges against a Philadelphia police officer who shot and killed a driver, Eddie Irizarry, through a rolled-up window. Those doing the ransacking were not affiliated with the protest, Interim Police Commissioner John Stanford said at a news conference, calling the group 'a bunch of criminal opportunists.' At least 18 state-run liquor stores were broken into, leading the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board to close all 48 of its Philadelphia retail locations and one in suburban Cheltenham on Wednesday. No employees were hurt Tuesday night, but 'some were understandably shaken,' said liquor board spokesperson Shawn Kelly. The stores were 'closed in the interest of employee safety and while we assess the damage and loss that occurred. We will reopen stores when it is safe to do so and when the damage is repaired,' Kelly said. Video on social media showed masked people in hoodies running out of Lululemon with merchandise and police officers grabbing several and tackling them to the sidewalk. Photos of a sporting goods store at a mall showed mannequins and sneakers scattered on the sidewalk. Looter Dayjia Blackwell, who livestreamed a mob-style looting spree in Philadelphia and encouraged others to join in, appeared distraught as police took her mug shot Dayjia Blackwell confidently livestreamed the crime spree in downtown Philadelphia last night, blissfully unaware that just four hours later it would land her in handcuffs The thefts and unrest stretched from downtown to northeast and west Philadelphia, leaving smashed display windows and broken storefront coverings. Police said seven cars were stolen from a lot in the northeast. One of the cars had been recovered as of Wednesday afternoon. Six businesses in a single retail corridor of North Philadelphia were looted, including three pharmacies, a hair salon, a tax preparation company and a cellphone store, according to the North 22nd Street Business Corridor, a business group. Benjamin Nochum, the pharmacist and store manager at Patriot Pharmacy, said it was the third time since 2020 his business had been hit. 'When looters steal from us, what they don't seem to understand is that they are also stealing from our neighbors,' Nochum said in a statement. 'It makes you question how much longer you can hang on.' People appeared to have organized efforts on social media, according to Stanford, the interim police commissioner. Police are investigating 'that there was possibly a caravan of a number of different vehicles that were going from location to location.' Video posted to social media showed people hanging out of cars in a shopping center parking lot, appearing to yell directions to one another. 'This destructive and illegal behavior cannot and will not be tolerated in our city,' said Mayor Jim Kenney, a Democrat, calling it a 'sickening display of opportunistic criminal activity.' A large number of people can be seen running towards the Lululemon store in this picture during the spree Images shared on social media show a large group storming the Apple store in the city, raiding it in the process His administration is working with police to assess 'which areas of the city may need increased coverage or additional resources,' he said. The chaos in Philadelphia was reminiscent of similarly brazen smash-and-grab thefts elsewhere, particularly in the San Francisco Bay Area, where organized groups of thieves, some carrying crowbars and hammers, have systematically targeted high-end stores. There were a large number of young people in Philadelphia's downtown business corridor, called Center City, shortly before 8 p.m., and some officers stopped a group of males 'dressed in black attire and wearing masks,' according to a police news release. At that time, reports and 911 calls came in about the Foot Locker store. When police arrived, they found it had been 'ransacked in a coordinated attack,' the news release said. By 8:12 p.m., police responded to similar calls at Lululemon, where police wrestled a few suspects to the ground as people streamed out of the store. Some of the suspected thieves slipped past police and got away, according to video posted to social media. Shortly afterward, calls directed police to the Apple Store, where thieves had forced their way in and made off with phones and tablets then smashed them on the ground when they realized the devices were disabled and their alarms were going off, social media video showed. Some of the merchandise was recovered, according to a police news release. No injuries were immediately reported, but CBS Philadelphia reported that a security guard was assaulted at the Foot Locker. The thefts occurred the same day Target announced it will close nine stores in four states, including one in New York City's East Harlem neighborhood, and three in the San Francisco Bay Area, saying that theft and organized retail crime have threatened the safety of its workers and customers. A British woman has died hours after she suffered 'a series of complications' during cosmetic surgery at a hospital in Majorca, it has emerged. The Briton, who has not been named, had travelled to the Spanish island for the operation at a private clinic in the capital of Palma. But she suffered a 'series of complications' during the procedure and was rushed to Son Espases Hospital in Palma where she died. A court in Majorca is now investigating her death, which is said to have happened in mid-September, and whether medical negligence played a part. The surgeon who operated on her has not been named but respected Majorcan newspaper Ultima Hora described him as a long-established professional 'who has spent decades working in Palma and other European countries.' The Briton, who has not been named, had travelled to the Spanish island for the operation at a private clinic in the capital of Palma. But she suffered a 'series of complications' during the operation and was rushed to Son Espases Hospital (file image) in Palma where she died His nationality has not been revealed but local reports say he lived outside of Spain. The Briton's family were informed that she had died in hospital after travelling to the island to have cosmetic surgery. A judge in charge of the ongoing inquiry is understood to be probing whether medical negligence played a part in the woman's death. There has not yet been any official comment from court officials or police. It was not immediately clear this morning if the woman's family made a formal complaint to island authorities or the investigation was launched without one from them. Earlier this month a UK coroner warned of cosmetic surgery abroad after the death of a British woman in Turkey. Melissa Kerr, 31, from Gorleston in Norfolk, died in Istanbul after injected fat entered a vein during a Brazilian butt lift procedure. She had travelled to the private Medicana Haznedar hospital for the procedure in 2019. She died on the day of the surgery. Jacqueline Lake, the senior coroner for Norfolk, said at the inquest she would write to the health secretary expressing concern about people travelling overseas for cosmetic surgery. She said: 'Ms Kerr wasn't seen by a surgeon or clinician prior to the date of the procedure and underwent a limited assessment prior to the procedures. 'There has been the release of an international alert to surgeons regarding the high mortality rate associated with this procedure. There has also been the introduction of a voluntary moratorium on this type of procedure in the UK.' She added: 'These are clearly not being followed in Turkey. I'm concerned patients are not being made aware of the risks or the mortality rate associated with such surgery. 'I do have concerns there will be future deaths and I'm of the view future deaths can be prevented by way of better information.' The type of cosmetic surgery the woman at the centre of the Majorca probe had arranged, has not been made clear. She has been described by Ultima Hora as 'young.' Suzanne Morphew's husband has said he and his daughters have been left 'immensely shocked' and heartbroken after the missing mom's remains were finally found in a shallow grave, adding that they believed she would one day 'walk back into their lives.' Barry Morphew's defense lawyer Iris Eytan issued a statement on behalf of the family on Wednesday after news broke that remains found in a remote desert area 50 miles south of the Morphew home in Salida, Colorado, were Suzanne's. Eytan insisted that Barry - who was arrested on suspicion of his wife's murder only for charges to then be dropped days later in 2021 - is 'as innocent as he was from Day 1.' 'Barry is with his daughters and they are all struggling with immense shock and grief after learning today that their mother and wife whom they deeply love was found deceased. 'They had faith that their wife and mom would walk back into their lives again. The news is heartbreaking,' Eytan wrote. Suzanne Morphew vanished without a trace on May 10, 2020, after setting off from her home on a Mother's Day bike ride. Her bike was found that same day, and now her body has finally been found, over three years later, in Moffat, Saguache County, while investigators were probing a separate case Barry Morphew, 55, the husband of Suzanne Morphew (right) has since filed a civil rights lawsuit seeking $15M claiming he was wrongfully charged with Colorado mom's disappearance and murder NEW: Here is a statement from Iris Eytan, defense attorney for Barry Morphew. Eytan says Morphews daughters were not notified about the discovery this afternoon. She says Barry is innocent as he was from Day 1. @KRDONC13 pic.twitter.com/cYjbEEZE7W Sean Rice KRDO (@SeanRiceTV) September 28, 2023 'Neither the DA nor the authorities notified Mallory and Macy Morphew about the recovery of their mom. 'From what we know, Barry is as innocent as he was from Day 1. DA Stanley and law enforcement got it wrong. 'We hope the authorities will quickly admit their wrongful persecution of Barry, an innocent man, to treat the Morphews like the victims they are, and charge the person(s) responsible for Suzanne's killing. 'The Morphews would appreciate their privacy during this deeply emotional and personal time.' Suzanne, a 49-year-old mother of two, vanished on May 10, 2020, after going on a bike ride on Mother's Day. Her bike was found the day she went missing, discarded in a ravine near her mountain home in Salida, 140 miles south of Denver. Investigators have revealed they found her 'scattered remains' 50 miles from her bike, in Moffat, Saguache County, while they were probing a separate case. She had been buried in a shallow grave, the coroner called to the site said, and her bones then dispersed over the years. No arrests have been made since the remains were located on September 22, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation confirmed on Wednesday and her identity was confirmed on September 27. In May 2021, a year after Suzanne disappeared, her husband Barry Morphew was arrested and charged with her murder despite police not having found a body. Last year, prosecutors dropped all charges against Morphew after a judge sanctioned the district attorney's office for discovery violations. The case was dismissed without prejudice, despite objections from the defense, which means it could still be re-filed should new evidence come to light. A source close to Barry Morphew told The US Sun that they thought he would be completely exonerated. Suzanne and her husband Barry had two daughters together. She vanished on Mother's Day in 2020 Morphew was charged with his wife's murder in 2021 - the charges were later dropped Morphew is accused of murdering his wife, Suzanne, right, who went missing on Mother's Day in 2020. Her body has never been found 'It's a relief but also a great sadness,' a source close to Barry Morphew told the website. 'We now know she's not alive, which we'd desperately been hoping (for). 'But we hope that Barry's name can be cleared because of the location where she was found and the timing of it all.' Barry Morphew was working in Broomfield, a suburb of Denver roughly 150 miles from the family home, at the time of his wife's disappearance, and the body was found even further away. The source added: 'We are all in so much shock. Hopefully answers will be forthcoming.' Barry Morphew is suing for $15 million after he was arrested on suspicion of his wife's murder, only for charges to then be dropped. A teenage boy dressed in black stabbed a 15-year-old private schoolgirl in the neck and chest with a 'sword-like' zombie knife after her friend rejected his flowers and love letter before he was arrested on a tram around an hour later. The 17-year-old remains in police custody today as the family and friends of his victim, named locally as Eliyanna, mourn her death before school in South London, yesterday. The row spilt out of the number 60 bus outside the Whitgift Shopping Centre close to East Croydon station at 8.30am on Wednesday. A bus driver and passers-by battled to save her but the girl, said to be from a West African Christian family, died on the pavement just minutes after the attack, less than a mile from her 20,000-a-year elite independent school, Old Palace of John Whitgift. A youth worker said he understood the boy tried to give a bouquet of flowers to his former girlfriend on the bus but tensions flared when they stepped off the red double-decker, which was packed with commuters and other school children. The friend is said to have rejected the flowers and had also tried to return a bag of possessions following the break-up. The victim stepped in to protect her and was stabbed in the neck by the teen 'wearing all black'. Chevanice Thomas's friend witnessed the girl being attacked. She said: 'He gave her the flowers and she threw them away. Her friends all dispersed when she went down. After that, the boy apparently stabbed her, blood gushing out and the police put pressure on it. She died on the spot.' The suspect, whose weapon was described as being 'as big as a sword', then reportedly fled the scene, being chased by brave passengers who had also been on the bus. Just 75 minutes after the attack, officers arrested the 17-year-old boy five miles away on a tram in nearby New Addington at 9.45am. Metropolitan Police Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain said police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident. Flowers at the Murder scene in Croydon today as a 17-year-old boy remains in custody Mourners lay flowers and tributes to the schoolgirl in a crime described by police as 'every parent's nightmare' The victim, who as a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift School in Croydon, has tonight been named locally as Eliyanna Forensic scientists at the scene were seen collecting blood stained red roses , which were said to be at the heart of the row Yesterday, forensics officers were seen removing a handwritten love note from the scene James Watkins said the teenager's family rushed to the scene but she had already died. 'They were unable to say goodbye,' he said. Former Met Chief Supt Simon Ovens said: 'Police have got to get to grips with young people carrying knives. 'There has been a huge drop in stop-and-search in the last ten years. Police are scared of stopping young people in the street because of the risk of complaints. 'Youngsters are therefore prepared to carry knives because they know the chance of being found with a weapon is so low. 'As well as carrying knives they are prepared to use them and never think about the consequences for their victim or themselves.' Security worker Victor Asare described the knife as 'black, thin and about a foot long'. He said: 'A lot of people came, everyone came off the bus. [The suspect] ran away. Everybody was crying and screaming. The girl was on the floor. 'We tried to catch him and a lot of people tried to save the girl. I was so shocked, I was shaken. It's somebody's daughter.' 'The boy wore a black blazer, the girl wore green. It looked like the girl didn't want the boy to come closer,' the 50-year-old added. 'I finished work but couldn't sleep, so came back, I wanted to see if the girl was OK.' Anthony King, chairman of the My Ends project said: 'They were heading to school on the bus this morning. All of them were scheduled to be at school by quarter to nine. 'Their school is ten minutes away from here and sadly the young lady didn't make it.' The bus driver and passengers desperately tried to save the young girl, as another schoolgirl reportedly screamed 'that's my best friend', as she tried to push through to see Eliyanna. Her family, who had been called to the scene, rushed down to the bus stop but she sadly died at 9.21am - before they could say goodbye. Forensic scientists at the scene yesterday were seen collecting blood stained red roses and a love note which read: 'I love you so so much and I [have] never met someone with a better smile and better eyes than what you have. Your [sic] special girl... princess.' The young girl died at the scene after being stabbed on her way to school Floral tributes and card laid at the scene in Croydon, south London Witnesses said the boy had tried to give the girl flowers but she replied that she 'didn't want to go out with him anymore' Last night tributes began to pour in for the teenager The father of a friend of the girl from Old Palace of John Whitgift School said the teenager was stabbed after intervening in a heated argument between her friend and the friend's former 'boyfriend'. He said: 'My daughter is friends with the girls. She's devastated about what happened. It's horrible.' A mother of two, who wanted to be named only as Bridget, said: 'I saw them resuscitating her. The driver was holding her, and a lady. The emergency services were already here.' She said two other schoolgirls, believed to be the victim's friends, were trying to get through the police cordon but were held back. Michael Fyffe, who witnessed the attack, told Sky News: 'There were loads of people who had just come off the bus and then I think two of the girl's friends came out and they were trying to rush over towards the body. 'So myself and a few of the other people tried to hold her back and just say, 'Look, let them try and help your friend', and she was just screaming, 'Is my friend dead? She's my best friend'.' Staff at the Leonardo Hotel on Wellesley Road, were among those at the scene. Beldine Kutima, who works there, told The Telegraph: 'One of our duty managers went to get the bus, but she came back in screaming and grabbing towels from the back room. 'She ran out there with bin bags and towels. She was crying and in shock.' One card wrote 'why?' before wishing condolences to the teenager's family Another read: 'Little princess. So sad your life was taken away at your prime. You have touched my soul' Forensic officers walk past the scene, which features several privacy screens A forensic investigator puts flowers into a container at the scene near the Whitgift shopping centre in Croydon A man delivers two bunches of flowers to the scene where the girl was killed yesterday Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley at the scene in Croydon yesterday afternoon James Watkins, of Mainz World, a local group that works with troubled youths, said: 'It's disgusting, when we look at these children being killed that are from the borough it hurts you in the heart. These could be our kids, it's devastating.' Last night, grieving families and school friends left heartbreaking messages at the scene last night. One note, from Edith, read: 'Rest in peace, little princess. So sad your life is taken away at your prime; you have touched my soul.' Another read: 'Sorry we live in this crazy world this makes no sense.' Tributes have poured in for the 'jovial' and 'much loved' teen who had a 'bright future ahead of her' - expected to pass all her GCSES later this school year. Mr King added: 'The [victim's] family and extended family are devastated. I can't articulate the sound of the tears and genuine heartbreak that took place this morning. '[The girl] was going to pass her GCSEs, she had a bright future ahead of her. An absolutely incredible young lady, very articulate. One of the young people said she was jovial and very funny.' Speaking to journalists at the scene, Metropolitan Police Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain said officers were not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident. 'This is every parent's worst nightmare, and I know the officers who responded this morning, along with our emergency service colleagues, are devastated at the victim's death,' he said. Speaking to journalists yesterday afternoon, Chief Superintendent Brittain said officers arrived within two minutes of being called and gave the suspect's age as 17 Privacy screens have been set up around the scene of the stabbing in Croydon, south London 'This is an emotion I share and I know people across Croydon will be feeling the same. 'The victim's family has been informed and our thoughts are with them at what must be an incredibly difficult time. 'We carried out urgent inquiries to find the suspect and within 75 minutes of the incident happening a 17-year-old boy was arrested in New Addington. He remains in custody and will be questioned by detectives. 'We remain in the early stages of our investigation, however based on what we know so far we believe that we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this offence. 'From our initial inquiries, we believe the suspect may have known the victim. However, we're not in a position to release the victim's identity at this time.' A spokesman for the Old Palace of John Whitgift School said: 'We are deeply shocked by the senseless and tragic death of our much-loved and valued friend and pupil. 'It will take some time for the Old Palace community to come to terms with this terrible news, and we will offer support to our pupils as we try to do so. 'Above all, we send our love and deepest sympathies to the girl's family at this unimaginably distressing time. Yesterday afternoon a white tent could be seen within a police cordon next to the double-decker bus. A forensic investigator onboard the bus where the argument is believed to have started Privacy screens and a tent outside the Whitgift centre in Croydon while a bus sits beside the pavement nearby Locals say they saw a group of schoolchildren getting off the No 60 bus outside the Whitgift Centre They said a row between the girl and boy - who were both in school uniform - 'spilled out' on to a street busy with pedestrians Croydon MP Sarah Jones attended the police press conference alongside Croydon mayor Jason Perry. Ms Jones said: 'I'm heartbroken that a child in my town has been killed on her way to school and I cannot imagine the grief that her family will be going through at this time. 'I want to thank the police and the ambulance services for trying so hard to save her life. They run into danger and I know they will be suffering today, too. 'I want to repeat the request from the police that if anybody has any information please do get in touch. 'We all hold our children close and our community will take time to grieve, but for today we are just thinking of this young girl and her family. I'm so sorry.' Mr Perry added: 'We all personally feel devastated by the events that have happened here in Croydon this morning and the tragic loss of such a young life. 'The community are feeling that hurt right now and we will do everything we can to support the community through such a very difficult time.' Met Police commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said tonight: 'The senseless murder of a 15-year-old girl on her way to school is impossible to comprehend. 'It was moving and humbling to meet many members of the exceptional Croydon community who have come together in support of a family now dealing with the most unimaginable grief. 'The commitment of so many from the local community is inspiring. A powerful partnership between charitable groups, faith and community leaders, the local authority, the wider public and our officers has delivered so much work across the borough. They have collectively saved many lives from knife crime. 'Many are shocked and hurting. They care deeply and it's this passion which has made Croydon a safer place and will continue to in the future. 'I spoke to officers who, with members of the public, were among the first on scene with colleagues trying to save this young girl's life and have since supported her family and friends. Through diligent work by them all an early arrest was made and our major crime team now continue to investigate the events leading up to this awful attack.' London Mayor Sadiq Khan told Greatest Hits Radio London: 'My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family of the 15-year-old child who has been stabbed in Croydon. 'I've been in touch with the commissioner [Sir Mark Rowley] and we are in touch with the police. 'It's heartbreaking. An arrest has been made of another teenager in relation to this matter. 'There were other people present and I'd encourage them to contact the police. If they are worried about the anonymity they can ring Crimestoppers. 'It's really important people come forward and support the police to make sure justice occurs for this poor girl's family.' Scotland Yard has confirmed that a 17-year-old boy has been arrested Alan Jones has labelled the official inquiry into Australia's response to the Covid pandemic 'a stain' on the Albanese government because it won't examine the actions of state leaders who behaved like 'Hitlers'. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the year-long inquiry a week ago, but it has attracted much flak for ruling out investigating 'actions taken unilaterally by state and territory governments'. Jones said the pandemic was an example of 'tyranny and government dictatorship at its worst by state governments' during a five-minute spray on subscription video platform ADH.TV. He said Mr Albanese was practising 'politics rotten to the core' by 'looking after its state brothers and sisters' in keeping the decisions and actions of Labor premiers out of the scope of the inquiry. Specifically Mr Jones named Labor's Victoria's Dan Andrews, Queensland's Annastacia Palaszczuk and Liberal NSW's Gladys Berejiklian as the guilty premiers of the time. Victoria Police officers patrol through a Melbourne shopping centre following an anti-lockdown protest on September 20, 2020 He also rattled off the names of their respective chief health officers, Brett Sutton, Jeannette Young and Kerry Chant. Noting that major decisions that defined the pandemic period - such as lockdowns, restrictions and internal border closures - were made by the states, Jones said it was a 'disgrace' these actions would escape scrutiny. 'Every day we were lectured by state premiers. It was fearmongering at its worst,' Jones said. 'We were lectured daily by dumb premiers and even dumber CHOs whose utterances have been proven to be not just wrong but socially, personally and economically damaging. 'These people carried on like Hitlers. The suffering was profound. Thousands of people died who should not have died. 'They were dogmatically wrong, yet those same state governments are now exempt from Albanese's government inquiry.' Veteran conservative firebrand commentator Alan Jones has labelled the official inquiry into Australia's pandemic response 'a disgrace' Jones said the inquiry was a case of 'here we go again. Attack the Morrison government'. While Jones said it was fair enough the Morrison government be examined because it 'got plenty wrong', he said the inquiry 'had no teeth' and would be biased to the left side of politics. Mr Albanese has been roundly criticised for settling on an inquiry that does not have the same powers as a royal commission to compel witnesses to appear and testify truthfully. The three-member panel conducting the inquiry are economist Angela Jackson, epidemiologist and regular Covid commentator Catherine Bennett, and public administration expert Robyn Kruk. Jones accused the trio of not being independent and said Dr Jackson worked at the 'left-of-centre think tank' Impact Politics and Policy. During his blistering editorial Jones accused premiers and chief health officers of failing to present 'one piece of paper... to justify what we were ordered to do.' 'I asked premiers to produce the paper, I was cancelled,' Jones claimed. 'There was no risk analysis of what vaccinations might do to some people.' Then Victorian premier Dan Andrews was named by Jones as one the perpetrators of Covid 'tyranny' Jones contrasted Australia's Covid inquiry to New Zealand, which is holding a royal commission into what happened during the pandemic. He also cited the UK and Sweden as holding more significant inquiries into the Covid period than Australia. An MP's sister was among two women attacked by an axe-wielding thug at a doctor's surgery in Perth. Dr Anna Chaney, sister of Curtin federal MP Kate Chaney, was injured in the attack at View Street Medical in North Perth, where she works, on Thursday morning. One of her patients rushed to her aid and subdued the man, before the doctor was taken to Royal Perth Hospital where she has serious but non life-threatening injuries. A second woman in her 40s was also hurt and was taken to King Edward Memorial Hospital. A 55-year-old man has been arrested. Dr Anna Chaney (pictured), sister of Curtin federal MP Kate Chaney, was injured in the attack at View Street Medical in North Perth, where she works, on Thursday morning Western Australia police have described staff and patients as 'heroic' for jumping on a man wielding an axe in a North Perth medical centre (pictured) on Thursday morning Dr Chaney told The West she wanted to thank her patient for 'bravely' helping her. 'I am in a stable condition and am being well looked after,' she told The West Australian. 'I won't make any further comments as a police investigation is underway. 'My family and I ask for privacy while I recover.' Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Matt Batson said patients inside the practice helped to subdue the alleged attacker. 'This is a serious incident ... this is very frightening for everybody involved and again I'd like to thank those members of the public who stood up and were able to detain the male,' he said. Curtin federal MP Kate Chaney. Her sister was caught up in the incident 'Members of the public did detain the male at the time and I'd like to thank them for their heroic actions. Detective Batson said it was not clear if the alleged attacker was a patient at the clinic or what his motives for the alleged assault were. The man arrested is expected to be charged later today. Forensic officers and other police were still at the scene on Thursday afternoon. A community leader broke down in tears as he said 'we shouldn't have to bury our children' in the wake of a girl knifed to death while on her way to school in Croydon yesterday. Local youth worker Anthony King, who runs a crime reduction organisation in the borough, wept as he spoke about the devastation among the community over the 'petty dispute' which led to the horrific attack. Elianne Andam, 15, became the sixteenth teenager to be killed in the capital - following 13 fatal stabbings, two shootings and one suspected arson attack already this year. The GCSE student's death has sparked an outcry of anger over yet another senseless loss of life as calls grow for Sadiq Khan tackle the capital's knife crime problem. The heartbreaking rollcall of teenagers killed has been laid bare on a tragic map. It includes the death of Leonardo Reid, who was knifed just days before his 16th birthday, and talented boxer Khaled Saleh, 17, who was stabbed as he walked past a church in June. Pastor Lorraine Jones, who lost her son Dwayne Simpson to knife crime, called the situation a 'state of emergency' and said more children will die unless something is done. Urging the Mayor to do more, she pleaded: 'We need help so we can deal with those that are most vulnerable,' adding 'otherwise all our lives are at risk.' Pastor Jones, who lost her own son in similar circumstances, said she knows what the parents must be going through A map reveals the heartbreaking rollcall of teenagers killed in the capital so far this year Elianne Andam, a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift School, was knifed to death on her way to school The Pastor told Sky News that she has been contacted by countless mothers that have lost their children saying 'Pastor Lorraine, it's happened again.' Pastor Jones, whose 21-year-old son Dwayne died after he was attacked in Brixton in 2014 while he protected a younger boy, said she knows what the parents must be going through. She also spoke about the 'scale of fear and anxiety' young girls are suffering from. Her comments came after community leader Anthony King said it was diabolical that 'for nothing' we have lost a teenager with a bright future. Breaking down and wiping away tears in an ITV interview, he said: 'If you ever knew how petty the dispute was, and this girl's life has gone and we're having to console the children they're devastated. The screaming and the crying that we had to deal with this morning we shouldn't have to be burying our children.' Norman Brennan, a retired police officer and commentator on gun and knife crime said 'the murder madness in London continues unabated.' He tweeted: 'Every time I see a child stabbed to death it hits me; another parent planning a funeral instead of a bright future.' James Watkins, of Mainz World, a local group that works with troubled youths, said: 'It's disgusting, when we look at these children being killed that are from the borough it hurts you in the heart. These could be our kids, it's devastating.' Community leader Anthony King broke down while speaking about the tragic loss in an ITV interview Donna Murray-Turner, of Another Night of Sisterhood, which supports families in the aftermath of murders, criticised Mr Khan for failing to tackle the knife crime epidemic. She said that once again, 'violence has had an immense effect on our community,' adding 'it's devastating that another young life has been taken.' She called on Mr Khan to 'refocus' on the violent crime plaguing the capital, saying: 'As far as the Mayor of London is concerned, throwing funding at things isn't enough. We need to have a bigger conversation. 'This is a societal problem, it's not just a black or working class problem. [Sadiq Khan] needs to start engaging in some uncomfortable conversations.' The father of stabbing victim Damilola Taylor declared 'society has broken down'. Richard Taylor, whose son Damilola was knifed to death in Peckham in 2000 aged just 10, told The Sun: 'What is a boy doing carrying a knife like that at 8.30am? 'There is something very wrong with a society when a girl of 15 is stabbed to death on her way to school.' The girl stabbed to death in Croydon became the 16th teenager to be killed in London this year - more than in the whole of 2022. Here are the victims who have tragically lost their lives in the capital this year: Elianne Andam, 15 This is the first picture of Elianne Andam, the 15-year-old schoolgirl stabbed in Croydon Elianne Andam, 15, was fatally stabbed in Croydon on September 27. Her devastated family told MailOnline of their grief today as it emerged that Elianne's mother is a NHS children's nurse who was paying for her daughter to go to a top school for a better life. An aunt, who only gave her name as Marian, said: 'You just can't comprehend the heartbreak of the last 24-hours, how Elianne went to school and never came home'. Speaking at Elianne's mother's home in Croydon, her aunt said: 'She wanted to be a lawyer, she went to private school paid for by my sister and had a great future ahead of her. She was a lovely girl, she loved doing her hair, had beautiful natural hair, and she really gymnastics. 'We're a big family and we are all here for our sister, to support her, we're a big family this has left us absolutely devastated. My sister is not feeling good, this only happened yesterday. It hasn't sunk in yet, it's a tragedy.' A 17-year-old boy has been arrested and is in custody. Elianne Andam, 15, was fatally stabbed in Croydon on September 27. Her family released a statement saying they are heartbroken by her 'senseless' death and the youngster had 'her whole life ahead of her' Her heartbroken family said in a statement: 'Our hearts are broken by the senseless death of our daughter. 'Elianne was the light of our lives. She was bright and funny, with many friends who all adored her. 'She was only 15, and had her whole life ahead of her, with hopes and dreams for the future. 'All those dreams have now been shattered. Our lives have fallen apart, along with that of our wider family.' Max Moy Wheatley, 19 Max Moy Wheatley, 19, who was stabbed in Jubilee Country Park Max Moy Wheatley, 19, was stabbed in the heart in Jubilee Country Park, Petts Wood, on September 20. The teen, from nearby Orpington, died at the scene after police were called around 2.30pm. Emergency crews, including an air ambulance, attended the crime but were unable to save Max. Officers sealed off a large area of Jubilee Country Park as forensics teams carried out a search. Uniformed police officers guarded the cordoned off middle of the park. Yusuf Mohamoud, 18 Yusuf Mohamed (pictured) was stabbed to death outside a greengrocer in west London Yusuf Mohamoud, 18, was stabbed outside a greengrocer in Finchley, north London, on August 7. A family friend revealed the student was on his way to buy milk for his mother. Witnesses described how his mother 'collapsed in tears' after seeing her son fatally injured. Mr Mohamed's father, Abdulahi Ulusow, 62, said he was 'heartbroken'. Two 15-year-old boys were charged with murder. Tyrese Jennings, 20, of N3, was arrested and due to appear at Willesden Magistrates' Court on 15 August charged with murder and possession of an offensive weapon. Following his death, Detective Chief Inspector Neil Rawlinson said: 'Another young man has died as a result of violence and we need the public's help to ensure Yusuf's family get the justice they deserve.' Anis Omar Zen, 19 Anis Omar Zen, 19, was fatally stabbed in Harrow, northwest London, on September 4. A 19-year-old man was arrested near the scene on suspicion of murder and has been bailed, pending further inquiries. Saeed Ibrahim, 18, of Stanmore, was arrested and charged with murder. He was due to appear at Thames Magistrates' Court on September 9. Stefan Balaban, 17 Stefan Balaban, 17, was stabbed in Edgware on July 28 Stefan Balaban, 17, was stabbed to death in Edgware just after 1am on July 28. Five boys, four aged 16 and one aged 17, were charged with murder. Claudyo Jauad Lafayette, 17 Claudyo Jauad Lafayette, 17, was fatally stabbed during a fight following a birthday party Claudyo Jauad Lafayette, 17, was fatally stabbed during a fight following a birthday party in Kilburn on July 14. A second 17-year-old boy was injured. Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers, of the Metropolitan Police said at the time: 'We believe that there was a fight following a birthday party, which would have been attended by a number of people. 'I would urge anyone who was there, and who has not yet spoken with officers, to please come forward. It is vital that we establish what happened.' Rahaan Ahmed Amin, 16 Rahaan Ahmed Amin, 16, was stabbed in West Ham Park, Forest Gate in July Rahaan Ahmed Amin, 16, was stabbed in West Ham Park, Forest Gate, on the afternoon of Sunday July 9. He died in hospital the following day, July 10. A post-mortem examination on July 12 found his cause of death as a stab wound to the heart. A 16-year-old boy was charged with murder. Andre Salmon, 18 Andre Salmon, 18, who was riding a moped when he was shot Andre Salmon, 18, was shot while riding a moped in Tottenham on July 3. He continued on the moped before colliding with a parked car. Andre collapsed and was pronounced dead at the scene. Police said he was shot by a man riding an e-scooter. Reagan Konin, 18, has been charged with his murder. Detective Chief Inspector Dave Whellams, Specialist Crime North, said at the time: 'My thoughts are with the family and friends of young Andre, who has lost his life in devastating circumstances. 'This incident was even more shocking given it took place on a residential street in broad daylight. 'My officers have been working around the clock to establish what has happened and we will do everything in our power to identify the individual responsible and ensure they are brought to justice.' Leonardo Reid, 15 The boy, 15, who has been named as Leonardo Reid (pictured), from Islington, was found with stab wounds and pronounced dead at the scene Leonardo Reid, 15, was one of two people fatally stabbed during the filming of a rap video in Archway on June 30. The schoolboy was found with stab wounds and pronounced dead at the scene. Following his death, Leonardo's family paid tribute to their 'bright, loving son, brother and friend' who 'loved football, music and his family'. 'For his mother, acceptance is incomprehensible,' said his family. 'No mother should have to lose a child to needless violence. This will be a long road. 'Leo was just four months shy of his 16th birthday, a cause for celebration for his family and his many achievements. His family wish to honour him on this day and beyond.' Two men have been charged with his murder. Victor Lee, 17 Victor Lee, from Ealing, was pronounced dead after being removed from the water Victor Lee, 17, was found stabbed in the Grand Union Canal at Ladbroke Grove on June 25. The teenager from Ealing was pulled from the water, but was pronounced dead at the scene. A post-mortem examination concluded he died from stab injuries. Three boys aged 14, 15 and 17 were charged with murder and robbery. Khaled Saleh, 17 Khaled Saleh, 17, was found with stab wounds in Paddington Green Khaled Saleh, 17, was fatally stabbed in Paddington Green on June 19. The keen boxer was found dying from a single stab wound by desperate passers-by who tried to put him in the recovery position and keep his wound compressed, the Evening Standard reported. His cousin Lena Wessan told the newspaper at the time: 'His mother is really devastated. Khaled was very caring. He would do absolutely anything for his family, to protect them, make them happy and be there for them. 'He was a family boy, he really valued them more than anything.' Friends described him as a talented boxer and a 'joker' who was loved by many. Wazabakana Elenda Jordan Kukabu, 18, Wazabakana Elenda Jordan Kukabu (pictured), aged 18, from Romford was fatally stabbed Wazabakana Elenda Jordan Kukabu, 18, known as Jordan, was stabbed in the chest during a fight between two groups armed with machetes near Dagenham Heathway tube station on May 5. Officers and the London Ambulance Service attended and the victim was found with stab injuries. Despite the efforts of emergency services, he sadly died at the scene. A post-mortem examination was held and gave a cause of death as single stab wound to the chest. A 15-year-old boy was charged with murder. Renell Charles, 16 Renell Charles, 16, was stabbed to death close to Kelmscott School in Walthamstow Renell Charles, 16, was stabbed outside Kelmscott School in Walthamstow where he was a pupil on May 5. A boy, also aged 16, was charged with murder. Headteacher Sam Jones said the attack marked the 'darkest of days' for the school community. 'A Kelmscott student was tragically killed in a senseless knife attack,' he said at the time. 'Kelmscott is a large and tight-knit family and this loss will be felt for a long time to come.' Emergency services rushed to Markhouse Road, Walthamstow, at around 4pm where Renell was found. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene a short time later. A post-mortem examination took place and found the cause of death to be a stab wound to the chest. Tyler McDermott, 17 Tyler McDermott, 17, died in hospital on April 14, after being found in Tottenham Tyler McDermott, 17, died in hospital on April 14, a day after being found with a shotgun wound in Tottenham. Two 19-year-olds Tyrese Barnett, of no fixed address, and Leo Reid, of Tulse Hill, were charged with murder. Chima Osuji, 17 Chima Osuji (pictured) was killed in Chingford at about 9.20pm on Easter Monday, April 10, the Metropolitan Police said Chima Osuji, 17, was stabbed to death in Chingford at about 9.20pm on Easter Monday, April 10, the Metropolitan Police said. Members of the public and emergency services tried to give first aid but the teenager died at the scene. Chima was the second teenager to be murdered in the capital in just five days. His death followed that of 15-year-old Tiffany Regis. A friend told MyLondon at the time: 'I was with him yesterday and it happened three hours later, after I left. We were just chilling, minding our own business. 'I went out with my dad and got home, then got a call saying your friend got stabbed at the bottom of your road. I could not get past the tape.' A 16-year-old boy was charged with murder. Tiffany Regis, 15 Tiffany Regis, 15, (pictured) died in the Beckton, East London, when a blaze started Tiffany was killed in a suspected arson attack in Beckton, East London, when a blaze started at around 5.30pm on Thursday April 6. Rescue teams scrambled to the flat after reports of a fire at a block in Tollgate Road. It is understood Tiffany had been hosting a party at the second-floor flat at the time. Police said they believe Tiffany died after being overcome by the smoke. A 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of her murder before being released on bail. Grant Shapps has made his first visit to Kyiv as Defence Secretary - with Volodymyr Zelensky appealing for help to strengthen air defences. The Cabinet minister shook hands and chatted warmly to the Ukraine president in a video posted on social media. It is the second trip to Ukraine for Mr Shapps in barely a month, after he travelled to the war-torn country as part of his previous job as Net Zero Secretary. In the footage posted by Mr Zelensky on the X site, he and Mr Shapps can be seen alongside military officials. Grant Shapps has made his first visit to Kyiv as Defence Secretary - with Volodymyr Zelensky appealing for help to strengthen air defences In the footage posted by Mr Zelensky on the X site, he and Mr Shapps can be seen alongside military officials Mr Zelensky wrote: 'I received UK Defence Secretary (Grant Shapps) in Kyiv. 'I am profoundly grateful to the UK for all the financial, humanitarian, and military support, including crucial long-range capabilities. 'We discussed further defence co-operation and steps to strengthen Ukraine's air defence.' Mr Shapps was appointed to the post at the end of August, having previously held a series of senior Government positions. flew to the Ukrainian capital to further links with Kyiv and visit a children's nursery once attended by the child he has welcomed into his home under the Homes for Ukraine scheme. Mr Shapp's trip last month promoted Ukraine's burgeoning nuclear power supply, with the minister saying it would help end the nation's reliance on Russian supplies. He visited a Ukrainian power station before travelling to a children's nursery attended by Nikita, the young son of the family he took in under the Homes for Ukraine scheme. Mr Shapps played a recorded message from Nikita for the children. The Government had announced its intention to provide a 192million loan guarantee through UK Export Finance (UKEF) - the UK's export credit agency. This is the horrifying moment a kayaker calls for help after seeing his friend ambushed by a '15-foot' crocodile. In 2010, Chris Korbulic and Ben Stookesberry, both from the US, were kayaking down the Lukuga River in the Democratic Republic of Congo when disaster struck. In a shocking turn of events, fellow kayaker, Hendrik Coetzee, 35, was snatched from his raft by the deadly aquatic predator. Video footage shows one of the pair calling for help as their friend was ambushed by the animal, that local residents claimed was 15 feet long and two tonnes in weight. Coetzee, who was born in South Africa but living in Uganda at the time, was leading the group of experienced kayakers as part of a mission to document unexplored whitewater and development projects in the region. In 2010, Chris Korbulic and Ben Stookesberry, both from the US, were kayaking down the Lukuga River in the Democratic Republic of Congo when disaster struck After arriving at a nearby village shortly after the attack, Stookesberry requested help via radio, saying: 'This is Ben, can you hear me? Weve had a terrible accident here. Hendri just got taken by a crocodile' The Lukuga River is notorious for its high density of crocodiles and hippos that inhabit the area Hendrik Coetzee, 35, (pictured) was leading an expedition from the source of the White Nile into Congo when he was attacked READ MORE: American tourists watch in horror as their Congo River guide is pulled from kayak by crocodile Advertisement His body has never been found and he is presumed dead following the tragic incident. Korbulic, of Rogue River, Oregon and Stookesberry, from Mount Shasta, California had teamed up with Coetzee in an attempt to become the first ever people to boat the Lukuga Rivers whitewater. The Lukuga River is notoriously dangerous for its whitewater and is risky to navigate due to the number of crocodiles and hippos in the area. Speaking about the horrific incident in 2010, Korbulic said: 'The crocodile just pulled him right underwater. I think we both were just in complete shock and disbelief, and absolutely horrified at what had just happened.' The trips sponsor company Eddie Bauer said in a statement: We are saddened by the tragic accident and express our deepest sympathies to Hendri's family and friends. Korbulic linked to the statement on his Facebook page, along with a tribute which read: My sympathies to the family; it is sad for the kayaking community around the world. In 2013, the sad story of Coetzee's death was recounted in the National Geographic documentary, Man-Eater of The Congo. Two of Australia's most controversial men were pictured together grinning shirtless and drinking beers at a beach club in Bali. Accused war criminal Ben Roberts-Smith, 44, and Zachary Rolfe, 31, a former Northern Territory cop who shot dead an Indigenous teenager, were pictured relaxing together at what appeared to be Finns Beach Club on the Indonesian island's south coast. It is unclear when the photo was taken but Roberts-Smith was pictured at Finns with his PR guru girlfriend in late August. Rolfe allegedly made a reference to their joint infamy in one of the comments when replying to a comment left by a Queensland officer he served alongside. 'Just a couple cops/murderers and war criminals Havin a lovely afternoon in the sun,' an Instagram account bearing Rolfe's name commented on the picture. Disgraced former war hero Ben Roberts-Smith, 44, and Zachary Rolfe, 31, a Northern Territory cop who shot dead an Indigenous teenager, were pictured relaxing together at what appeared to be Finns Beach Club on the Indonesian island's south coast (pictured) Rolfe allegedly made a reference to their joint infamy in one of the comments when replying to a comment left by a Queensland officer he served alongside The Guardian, which first published the now-deleted image, said the 'zaccourtier' account used the display name 'Zac R'. Courtier is the maiden name of Rolfe's mother. Rolfe was found not guilty of murdering Kumanjayi Walker, 19, in a high-profile trial that ended in early 2022. Rolfe shot Walker three times in the remote community of Yuendumu, north-west of Alice Springs, on November 9, 2019. In April, he was sacked by NT Police over a 'serious breaches of discipline' over his policing career. Rolfe, who is appealing his dismissal, is expected to give evidence to an inquest next month into Walker's death. Ben Roberts-Smith is appealing the Federal Court decision which found against him after he sued three newspapers for defamation Zachary Rolfe (pictured) shot Kumanjayi Walker, 19, three times in the remote community of Yuendumu, north-west of Alice Springs, on November 9, 2019 In June, Roberts-Smith sensationally lost a defamation case against Nine Newspapers who accused him of the the murder of four Afghan men when he served in the SAS. The threshold to establish the claims in a civil matter is 'on the balance of probabilities' rather than the far more onerous test in a criminal case of 'beyond reasonable doubt'. No criminal action automatically flows from the Federal Court judgment so Roberts-Smith is perfectly free to do as he has done and sun himself in Bali. The tattooed Victoria Cross recipient is appealing against the Federal Court decision with the hearing expected to be heard in February next year. Roberts-Smith and Rolfe have known each other for more than a decade after meeting in a Canberra in 2011. Deborah Rolfe AM, Rolfe's mother, gave a statement supporting Roberts-Smith in his defamation case. 'We spoke and 'connected' straight away in part because Zach had recently joined the Australian Army,' Mrs Rolfe said. She described Roberts-Smith as a mentor to her son. 'In particular, Ben has been very kind and helpful towards Zach, with Ben having acted as a mentor to him.' Daily Mail Australia approached Rolfe's lawyer for comment. Keir Starmer was accused of an 'old-school Labour raid on aspiration' today amid claims he is poised to target inheritance tax to raise 4billion for a spending splurge. Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves is looking at building a warchest for an incoming Starmer government by closing tax 'loopholes'. Options being examined include ending the IHT exemption for agricultural land, and curbing reliefs on shares in unlisted businesses. But the move could open a clear dividing line with the Tories amid speculation that Rishi Sunak will pledge to cut or even abolish IHT in his election manifesto. Labour is holding off announcing its proposals until much closer to a poll, amid fears that ministers would either steal or find ways of attacking them. Questions are increasingly being raised about Sir Keir's plans for government, with polls consistently showing a double-digit lead for his party. Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves (right) is looking at building a warchest for an incoming Keir Starmer (left) government by closing tax 'loopholes' The IFS estimates that IHT revenues will surge far more than thought as a proportion of GDP The revenue raised by IHT has been rising sharply over recent years The number of estates that end up paying IHT vary hugely across the country, as this IFS chart shows But shadow frontbenchers have been shying away from fleshing out ideas, insisting that the dire state of the Treasury's finances mean there is limited room for manoeuvre. Sir Keir has used the tough fiscal landscape as cover to drop previous flagship pledges such as scrapping tuition fees. Tony Blair has urged Labour not to get carried away with big 'tax and spend' commitments. The mooted tweaks to IHT, together with scrapping or reducing relief on people selling business assets, would be expected to bring in more than 4billion. 'Rachel's team has built up a war chest of money that can be found by closing down some of the existing loopholes in the tax system that overwhelmingly benefit just a tiny number of people,' a source told The Times. 'The big question is when to deploy it.' But a senior Tory source said: 'This looks like an old-school Labour tax raid on aspiration, savings, British farming and small businesses. 'Despite the Blairite tribute act, Starmer and Reeves are just old tax and spend Labour.' Another Tory source added: 'With a war in Europe and food security at the front of everyone's minds, launching a tax raid on family farms is beyond stupid. 'Labour should park the class war and back British farming.' Inheritance tax is charged at 40 per cent on estates worth more than 325,000, with an extra 175,000 allowance towards a main residence if it is passed on to children or grandchildren. A married couple can share their allowance, meaning most parents can pass on 1million to their children without any tax being paid. The figures for the last tax year show just 3.73 per cent of UK deaths resulted in an inheritance tax charge. However, around a third of people believe that their estate will pass the threshold. Much of the inheritable wealth in London comes through housing This IFS chart shows how changes to the treatment of IHT could radically increase how much it brings in for the Treasury And the revenue raised by IHT has been rising sharply over recent years. A report this week estimated that the annual amount brought in by IHT will go from 7billion to 15billion over the next decade. As each generation amasses more wealth, those who inherit will have to pay more to the Treasury, the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) said. The number of people affected by the tax will also grow. In a decade, one in eight (12 per cent) are set to have inheritance tax due when either they or their partner dies. The research suggested that the growth in the size of inheritances will be much stronger than official forecasts suggest, increasing the tax take for the Government. There is a dramatic variation between different parts of the country. Nearly a quarter of people (23 per cent) in London are in line to pay the tax in a decade twice the national average and five times higher than in the North East. The IFS found the wealthiest 1 per cent of society those with estates of 2.1million or more would get half the benefit of scrapping inheritance tax, saving them 1million on average. Next year, the wealthiest fifth of parents will bequeath an average of 380,000 per child, and pay inheritance tax of around 10 per cent of this amount. By contrast, the least wealthy fifth of parents will leave less than 2,000 per child. The report also found a huge difference in wealth. By the age of 50 to 54, children of the richest fifth of parents have accumulated an average of 830,000, while children of the least wealthy fifth only have an average of 180,000, it said. There are claims that Downing Street is considering announcing an intention of reducing or even scrapping the duty, potentially for inclusion in the next election manifesto. In a poll answered by 3,203 This is Money readers, 48 per cent supported abolishing inheritance tax, while 28 per cent said the threshold should be raised and 12 per cent supported cutting the rate. Just 2 per cent said it was fair and should be left alone. Neil Davy, of campaign group Family Business UK, said: 'Business property relief now known as business relief was specifically designed to facilitate the handing of a family business from one generation to the next without creating a significant inheritance tax charge. 'It is gives business owners the confidence to invest and plan for their businesses to continue trading and providing employment after their death.' He said that without BPR, many family businesses would need to be 'sold, liquidated or broken up in order to raise the necessary cash to pay the charge'. This would have clear knock-on effects on jobs and investment, he added. The female journalist whom Laurence Fox said he would not want to 'sh*g' on GB News has insisted it is 'not acceptable for broadcasters to act like that'. Ava Evans, the political correspondent for news website Joe, revealed she has faced threats in direct messages on social media and been told to 'watch my back' following the comments from the actor-turned-activist. She added that there are 'certain people who are now threatening to come after me' after Fox's vulgar outburst on an episode of Dan Wootton Tonight on Tuesday. Ms Evans was targeted after telling the BBC's Politics Live that the idea of a minister for men would 'feed into the culture war'. Reacting to her comments on GB News, Fox asked 'who would want to sh*g that?', adding: 'What self-respecting man [would] climb into bed [with] that woman?' Fox and Wootton have now been suspended by the channel while it carries out an investigation - and media regulator Ofcom has also launched a probe. Ava Evans, political correspondent for news website Joe, on ITV's Good Morning Britain today Ava Evans (left) speaks to Good Morning Britain hosts Ben Shephard and Susanna Reid Laurence Fox (right) spoke about Ava Evans during Dan Wootton (left) Tonight on Tuesday Last night, Ava Evans tweeted a picture drinking a pint at the Bethnal Green Tavern in East London, along with the caption: 'Me reading your libellous tweets.' Today she told ITV's Good Morning Britain that she was 'deeply embarrassed by all of it' and appreciated 'everyone who has very kindly stood up for me'. She added: 'Half of the comments are very lovely and supportive, and then the other side are very threatening. GB News must not be cancelled over Laurence Fox row, says host Mark Dolan Mark Dolan on GB News last night GB News has learned a 'hard lesson' after 'offensive' comments were made on-air by Laurence Fox - but the channel must not be cancelled, a presenter has said. Covering the 9pm slot on GB News yesterday evening, Mark Dolan condemned Fox's 'offensive comments' about Ms Evans. He said: 'Whether Laurence should stay on air is not my decision and Dan's absence tonight is also beyond my control. There is an investigation ongoing, but the comments made by Laurence in my view were sexist, misogynistic and, unusually, in the frenzied climate of the so-called culture wars, have been condemned across the political spectrum from left and right.' But he went on to warn that GB News must not be cancelled in the wake of Fox's comments. 'Where possible, we seek to play the ball, not the man, or in this case, the woman,' Dolan said. 'We don't always achieve that. Unfortunately, this awful episode plays into the hands of our critics, the people who would love to see the back of GB News. That mustn't happen.' The presenter said the channel is 'rewriting the rulebook' on current affairs broadcasting and garnering a 'fast growing and incredibly loyal audience'. 'Whilst we're here for the many people in this country, who feel they do not have a voice, the truth is, we're here for everyone,' he continued. 'People are coming to us in their numbers across all political colours, because they want a different angle, a different approach and they want debate. They want a diversity of opinion and they want it done with wit and wisdom. 'Fiery and good humoured, but respectful and fair too, that is the GB News way. We didn't have that last night. In the end, a hard lesson has been learned. We have freedom of speech, but not freedom from the fallout.' Advertisement 'I'm somehow part of this global agenda that is trying to bring down men, and I hate all men and therefore I need to watch my back and be very careful because there are certain people who now are threatening to come after me. 'Sorry, it feels ridiculous even saying it. But my direct messages on social media are full of people threatening me.' Asked by host Susanna Reid whether she had reported the threats to police, Ms Evans said: 'I haven't yet. It's only been a day and I'm still sort of trying to get my head around all of it. 'But, I mean, reading them, it's just honestly astounding. Most of the time I cover trade unions and picket lines, and now I feel like I've been thrown into something that is just so ridiculous and hyperbolic and nothing to do with me really.' She added that the suspension of Fox and Wootton along with the investigation launched by GB News was a 'good outcome' yesterday. But she added: 'I would just quite like for there to be a precedent set here going forward with broadcasting where that is not acceptable and I want other young producers who might have been sitting in the gallery to feel - not empowered, that's a silly word - but maybe to have the confidence to call that out in future and know that it's not acceptable for broadcasters to act like that.' Ms Evans was also asked whether it was appropriate for Conservative MPs to continue appearing on GB News. Philip Davies, Lee Anderson, Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg and Esther McVey are among the politicians who host shows on the channel. Ms Evans said: 'I think what's important is a lot of presenters and producers spoke publicly yesterday about how they don't align themselves with those views, but I didn't hear that from any of the elected Members of Parliament that sit on that channel. 'And so if you're not going to say anything and you're going to continue broadcasting on it, it's almost as if you've accepted it... You're saying that it's perfectly reasonable to profess what Laurence Fox did that night.' Sir Jacob said yesterday that he had not seen the comments by Fox, adding: 'I understand he has been suspended from GB News and we can see the outcome of that, but no I don't know the details.' However, Mr Davies criticise the outburst, saying: 'Laurence Fox's disgraceful remarks were completely unacceptable, unjustifiable and indefensible.' Wootton, who appeared to laugh when Fox made the remarks, said his 'inappropriate' reaction was a 'very unfortunate lapse in judgment'. Covering the 9pm slot on GB News yesterday evening, Mark Dolan referenced Fox making 'offensive comments' about Ms Evans. He said: 'Whether Laurence should stay on air is not my decision and Dan's absence tonight is also beyond my control. 'There is an investigation ongoing, but the comments made by Laurence in my view were sexist, misogynistic and, unusually, in the frenzied climate of the so-called culture wars, have been condemned across the political spectrum from left and right.' Ava Evans tweeted a picture of her drinking a pint at the Bethnal Green Tavern in East London yesterday evening with the caption: 'Me reading your libellous tweets' Ava Evans also appeared on Channel 5's Jeremy Vine show yesterday to discuss the row It comes after Ava Evans made comments about men's mental health and suicide on the BBC's Politics Live on Monday, in which she dismissed calls for a dedicated minister on the issue What did Laurence Fox say on GB News? Laurence Fox: 'We're past the watershed so I can say this: show me a single self-respecting man that would like to climb into bed with that woman, ever, ever, who wasn't an incel? 'That little woman has been fed, spoon-fed oppression day after day after day... starting with the lie of the gender wage gap, and she's sat there and I'm going, if I met you in a bar and that was like sentence three, chances of me just walking away are just huge. 'We need powerful strong amazing women who make great points for themselves, we don't need these sort of feminist 4.0... they're pathetic and embarrassing. 'Who would want to sh*g that?' Advertisement Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan said Ofcom had to look into GB News after the 'unacceptable and disgraceful' on-air behaviour of Wootton and Fox, adding that the regulator had to take the response to the 'next stage'. She told Sky News' Politics Hub: 'Ofcom really do need to look at this. I was quite shocked and taken aback by the level of the comments made and the response of Dan on that show. 'It was completely unacceptable. I'm glad that GB News took decisive action and suspended both of them quickly today, but there needs to be the next stage now and Ofcom really needs to be looking at this.' But the Tory MP said she would not 'boycott' the broadcaster, arguing it was an 'isolated incident' and not 'a symptom of a broader problem at all'. She said GB News needs to learn 'big lessons' such as 'why was this ever viewed as acceptable in modern Britain', and investigate whether the conversation had been 'pre-agreed'. Tory MP Caroline Nokes, who chairs the Commons Women and Equalities Committee, said that the regulator must investigate the 'blatantly misogynistic, outdated, hideous attitudes'. She told BBC Newsnight: 'I think there is a really serious case to answer and I hope that Ofcom can conclude its investigations as swiftly as possible.' Ms Evans shared a clip of the comments on X, which has since been viewed millions of times The discussion came after Ava Evans (pictured) appeared on BBC 's Politics Live on Monday Laurence Fox: From screen actor to founder of the Reclaim Party Actor Laurence Fox rose to fame through various acting roles and is most well-known for portraying DS James Hathaway in the long-running TV series Lewis, which came to an end in 2015. The actor, 45, has credits in films that include the 2001 production of Gosford Park, the 2007 TV movie A Room With A View and the recent 2022 film My Son Hunter, in which he plays the lead role of Hunter, the son of American president Joe Biden. Born into an acting dynasty, Fox is related to a slew of famous thespians, including his cousin Freddie Fox, who starred in the 2011 film The Three Musketeers and Netflix series The Crown, playing former prime minister Margaret Thatcher's son Mark. Laurence Fox married fellow thespian Billie Piper in 2007 and the pair split in 2016 Sister to Freddie and cousin to Laurence is Emilia Fox, known for her role as Dr Nikki Alexander in BBC TV series Silent Witness. The trio are grandchildren to actor and theatrical agent Robin Fox whose son James is father to Laurence and has starred in Downton Abbey, Sherlock Holmes, Midsomer Murders and New Tricks, among other TV series. Fox married fellow thespian and Doctor Who star Billie Piper in 2007 and the pair split in 2016. They have two sons together, Winston and Eugene. Fox has credits in films that include the 2007 TV movie A Room With A View In 2020, Fox appeared on BBC Question Time and was involved in a debate over Meghan Markle, white male privilege and racism which led to the actor saying he would take a break from social media. Following his appearance, the actor founded political party the Reclaim Party in October 2020, and the website says he did so after his appearance led to him being 'cancelled' from his acting career. After he set up the Reclaim Party, Fox unsuccessfully stood for London mayor during the mayoral election of 2021. Fox appeared on BBC Question Time in 2020 and was in a debate over Meghan Markle, white male privilege and racism His manifesto included promises to deliver 'free travel on the Tubes and buses for six months' and 'tough New York style community policing to target petty crime'. According to the Reclaim Party website, the party exists 'for patriotism and believes hard work should be rewarded.' Reclaim is strongly associated with the 'culture wars' and Fox has previously expressed scepticism about the Covid vaccine and opposed lockdowns during the pandemic. Fox has been a presenter on GB News and according to the broadcaster's website he 'tackles the issues of the day' with a 'unique and outgoing style'. Advertisement Ofcom said it has received 'a number of complaints' about Fox's remarks, adding: 'We are assessing these complaints against our broadcast rules and will publish the outcome as quickly as possible.' During the exchange on Tuesday, Fox was asked about Ms Evans' critical comments about suggestions there should be a minister for men to address mental ill health. She later said her remarks were 'a little rash' and said she was 'actually very interested in a brief for a minister on young men's mental health'. Wootton was seen to laugh after Fox said: 'Show me a single self-respecting man that would like to climb into bed with that woman, ever, ever, who wasn't an incel? 'That little woman has been fed, spoon-fed oppression day after day after day... starting with the lie of the gender wage gap, and she's sat there and I'm going, if I met you in a bar and that was like sentence three, chances of me just walking away are just huge. 'We need powerful, strong, amazing women who make great points for themselves, we don't need these sort of feminist 4.0... they're pathetic and embarrassing. Who would want to sh*g that?' Wootton, a former executive editor at The Sun, offered 'a touch of balance', saying that Ms Evans expressed regret at her comments 'but she didn't apologise... and she's a very beautiful woman, Laurence... very beautiful woman'. Ms Evans said Fox's comments made her feel 'physically sick'. She told the BBC Newscast podcast she had received an apology from GB News, but had not decided whether to accept it, adding: 'Let's just see how the investigation goes.' Wootton said through his lawyer that 'he remains sincere in his desire to apologise personally' to Ms Evans. After the show, GB News described Fox's comments as 'totally unacceptable', adding: 'What he said does not reflect our values and we apologise unreservedly for the comments and the offence they have caused.' Wootton apologised, saying that he can see how 'inappropriate my reaction to his totally unacceptable remarks appears to be and want to be clear that I was in no way amused by the comments'. He said he had reacted 'out of shock and surprise in an off-guard moment while working out how to respond'. He added: 'I apologise unreservedly for what was a very unfortunate lapse in judgment on my part under the intense pressure of a bizarre exchange. I know I should have done better. I'm devastated that I let down the team and our supportive GBN family.' However the apology sparked a row with Fox who revealed messages online which suggesting he and Wootton had shared laughing emojis about the incident in private. Saying 'honesty is the best policy', he published a messenger dialogue that began with: 'Making you giggle is my weekly joy.' The response followed: 'You can imagine them freaking out in the gallery!!!!!' Fox also claimed in the series of tweets that he had done a 'pre-interview' with the channel 'so they knew exactly what I intended to say'. The 45-year-old, whose previous acting credits include Gosford Park and Elizabeth: The Golden Age, said he stands 'by every word of what I said'. He founded the Reclaim Party in October 2020 after an appearance on the BBC's news panel show Question Time earlier that year, which the actor said resulted in him being 'cancelled from a 21-year acting career'. According to its website, the party exists to challenge 'woke orthodoxy' and promote 'freedom of speech', which it views as being 'under grave peril'. Today a spokesperson for dmg media said: 'Following events this week, dmg media can confirm that Dan Woottons freelance column with MailOnline - which had already been paused - has now been terminated, along with his contract.' A 14-year-old boy stabbed a teacher in the eye and knifed two students this morning after pulling out two knives and screaming 'I'm going to kill you' during a horrific rampage at a Spanish school. The teenager, who has not been named, allegedly stabbed three teachers and two students repeatedly as classes started at around 8.25am at the Elena Garcia Armada Institute in the city of Jerez de la Frontera, southern Spain. The 14-year-old, said to have autism, had entered the classroom this morning before he took out two large knives from his backpack and began 'stabbing everyone who passed by', police sources claim. He allegedly stabbed his classmates and tried to take them hostage before the teachers tried to restrain him - but this is when he allegedly stabbed one female teacher in the eye and two other tutors. Police were called to the scene where they found the 14-year-old pupil on the third floor carrying to knives before they arrested him. Four of the injured were treated in hospital, including a teacher who will need surgery to her eye after being stabbed by the pupil, the regional government's eduction minister, Patricia del Pozo, told reporters. A 14-year-old boy stabbed a teacher in the eye and knifed two students this morning after pulling out two knives and screaming 'I'm going to kill you' during a horrific rampage at a Spanish school. Pictured: Students and teachers gather outside the school this morning People embrace outside a school where the 14-year-old boy stabbed three teachers and two students in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain police officer addresses a crowd gathered outside the school following the stabbing in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, today Several students told Spanish media the pupil first stabbed members of his class and the teacher who suffered the eye injury before he ran to another classroom and continued his attack. One student, who was not identified, told private television La Sexta the attacker ran to the back of the class, 'dropped his backpack on the floor and pulled out the knives before shouting 'I'm going to kill you!'' 'He was running, chasing people, everyone went out into the playground,' he added. Another unnamed student told Canal Sur television the pupil had 'a look on his face like he wanted to stab everyone.' Panicked parents, upon hearing the news of the stabbing, rushed to the school where they had dropped their children off only minutes earlier. They were seen standing by the school gates, waiting and hoping that their children would emerge unscathed. Students were evacuated from the school and given the rest of the day off. Law enforcement officers outside the school following the stabbing on Thursday Ambulances are parked outside a school where a stabbing took place earlier this morning Staff gather outside a school where their coworkers and students were stabbed by a 14-year-old student today 'It was devastating and dramatic because all the parents were outside the school wishing they could hug their children,' Jerez de la Frontera mayor Maria Jose Garcia-Pelayo told reporters, adding that the teachers managed to disarm the suspect. 'They acted very diligently to protect the children...what happened is very serious and it requires us to reflect.' The suspect is currently being questioned by police at the Jerez police station. The head of Andalusia's regional government, Juan Manuel Moreno, said the trigger for the attack was not clear but flayed 'extreme violence' on television and elsewhere. 'We should all reflect on the role played by violence on television, in the movies, in games. The violence which we very often see on social media, gratuitous, sometimes extreme violence,' he added. The head of the Spanish bishops' conference, Archbishop Francisco Cesar Garcia Mogan, called for 'urgent reflection' and a focus on mental health in education. Spain has a low crime rate - especially of violent crime - compared to other European countries. Excluding 2020, when incidents of crime were especially rare because of pandemic-induced lockdowns, 2021's crime rate of 41.4 incidents per 1,000 people was the lowest in recent history, according to the government. A man who was rescued naked from the ocean north of Perth has been charged by police as they investigate any potential links to a body found nearby in a burnt-out car. The white Mitsubishi Pajero was found ablaze off Indian Ocean Drive between Cervantes and Jurien Bay, more than 200km north of Perth, in the early hours of Tuesday morning. A body was found in the car later that day. Meanwhile, on Tuesday morning Benjamin Jack McLaughlin, 20, was seen acting erratically in a boat adrift in water off the Cervantes Jetty, near a small red car which was submerged. He ended up in the water and had to be rescued by a fishing vessel, before he was taken into police custody and taken for medical treatment. Benjamin Jack McLaughlin (pictured), who was rescued naked from the ocean has been charged by police as they investigate any links to a body found nearby in a burnt-out car McLaughlin, 20, was seen acting erratically in a boat adrift in water off the Cervantes Jetty, near a small red car (pictured) which was submerged READ MORE: Bizarre mystery unfolds as body is discovered in a burnt-out car Advertisement On Thursday, McLaughlin appeared in Perth Magistrates Court charged with casting away ships, assault public officer, assault person assisting public officer and obstructing public officers. It was revealed in court the Hamilton Hill man was naked during the alleged incident on Tuesday morning. He was granted bail before his next court appearance on November 16. His bail conditions include not being allowed within 50km of Cervantes. No charges have been laid over the discovery of the body in the burnt-out Pajero, with the remains yet to be identified. WA Police Detective Senior Sergeant Greg McDonald said police are investigating if Mr McLaughlin's incident and the Pajero are linked. He revealed the Pajero had left the southern Perth suburb of Hamilton Hill at about 9pm on Monday and must have been speeding to reach Cervantes by the time it was discovered on fire. Police are seeking dashcam footage from vehicles travelling in either direction along Indian Ocean Drive between 9pm on Monday and 12.30am on Tuesday, or to hear from anyone who may have seen the Pajero speeding or driving erratically. Human remains were found in a car that on fire when police came across it along Indian Ocean Dr near the coastal town of Jurien Bay about 12.30am Tuesday A husband who murdered his wife and blamed it on a gang of thugs wearing clown masks in a bogus TV appeal has been released after 26 years in jail. Gordon Wardell was sentenced to life imprisonment in 1995 for the murder of his wife Carol, 39, who he claimed had been kidnapped by men wearing 'clown masks.' Callous Wardell, then 42, killed Carol and dumped her body in a lay-by on Monday September 12, 1994, then staged the aftermath of a raid at their home in Nuneaton, Warwickshire. He told police - who found him bound and gagged in his underwear at the property following the discovery of Carol's body - he'd been attacked and drugged by a gang after returning home to find them holding his wife. Wardell appeared at a police press conference in a wheelchair, wearing orange tinted sunglasses and visibly shaken a few days after the murder and his over-the-top performance immediately made him a suspect. Gordon Wardell with his wife Carol, who he murdered in September 1994 - before trying to blame a rogue gang of men in 'clown masks' Wardell presented an elaborate alibi at a police press conference, crying through crocodile tears that his wife 'worked hard' Despite plenty of emotion and crocodile tears, the only kind words the supposedly grieving widower could find to say about his wife at the press conference days after her death was that she 'worked hard'. He described in detail to reporters how he had returned home to find a man wearing a clown's mask and a dark blue boiler suit threatening his wife at knifepoint. He claimed to have been grabbed from both sides, forced down and lost consciousness after a cloth had been put over his face. Wardell said he didn't remember anything else until he awoke later bound and gagged. During the press conference, questions were put to Wardell regarding a previous conviction he had for grievous bodily harm. He responded that he didn't see how the question was relevant and reiterated that all he wanted was for his wife's killers to be found. On Sunday October 2, 1994, police with the assistance of Wardell, carried out a reconstruction of his movements on the Sunday night before his wife was found murdered. He retraced his steps, having left his home in Meriden, he had driven to Coventry to post some letters at the main sorting office before driving to a public house located in the suburbs of Coventry where he had two drinks before returning home to find his wife held at knife point. Police hoped that the reconstruction, which was covered by local and national media, might jog someone's memory so that they might come forward with new information. It was also a ruse to allow Wardell to implicate himself as police considered him a strong suspect. Wardell had previously been convicted of a serious sexual assault and grievous bodily harm in the 1970s for which he had spent time in prison. Carol Wardell had been a branch manager for Woolwich Building Society, robbed of more than 14,000 on the day of her murder Wardell was jailed for life in 1995 after being convicted of his wife's murder but was quietly released on licence in December 2021 How Wardell gave away FIVE signs that he'd murdered his wife Carol Body language expert Cliff Lansley, who used to train staff at the US Department of Homeland Security, says there were already signs that Gordon Wardell killed his wife Carol before his arrest. At the press conference, Wardell didn't blink as he recalled how he was attacked by an unknown group of thugs. Cliff said: 'That could signify that he's rehearsed this story in this mind and he's replaying the video, and he's focusing on the detail of that video and playing it across to the cameras.' Wardell also paused his speech. 'The pauses give us an indication on the amount of cognitive load or thinking that's going on here to make sure he constructs a story in a plausible believable way.' At the police reconstruction three weeks later he gave an evil stare down the camera at reporters' questions: 'It's almost as if you can hear the word in his head going, "Don't take me on, I'm telling the truth. Stay away. Don't ask me any difficult questions otherwise I'm going to attack back,"' the expert said. Wardell keeps tightening his lips: 'It could be the onset of anger, he's prepared for a fight here.' When speaking about the killers he shakes his head: 'The head shake could be the giveaway.' Advertisement The reconstruction was covered extensively by the national and local press and TV because the story was front page news across the UK. Wardell's lies began to unravel - police discovered he had been visiting prostitutes in the red light district of Coventry - and he was arrested on Thursday October 20, 1994. A jury at Oxford Crown Court was told that Wardell staged a raid at the Nuneaton branch of the Woolwich building society, stealing 14,000 and leaving one of his wife's sandals in the office in an attempt to cover his tracks. He bound and gagged himself at the couple's home where he was found by police. He told them a gang had kidnapped his wife, who was found strangled. The jury unanimously rejected his story after a six-week trial during which 128 witnesses were called. In December 1995, Wardell was sentenced to life imprisonment. The home secretary set Wardell's minimum tariff to 18 years. Sentencing Wardell, Mr Justice Cresswell said: 'You are an extremely dangerous, evil and devious man. You killed your wife in a brutal manner then cynically attempted to escape detection by going to elaborate lengths to make it appear that your crime was the work of a gang of robbers. 'This murder was an outrage to your wife, her family, and to everybody who knew her.' There were gasps of 'yes' from the public gallery and Mrs Wardell's mother, Joan, burst into tears. Wardell, a 6ft 3ins tall fitness fanatic, looked pale and shook his head. Following the conviction, Carol's mother, Joan Heslop said: 'Carol will be able to rest now in peace. She loved life and was full of life. To have it taken away in such a way was terrible.' Detective Superintendent Tony Bayliss, who led the murder investigation, said that a motive for the killing has never been fully established though one theory was that Wardell was at risk of losing his job as an executive for a car parts company. 'Inevitably it led to financial problems but I believe the murder was domestically oriented, he said at the time. MailOnline can reveal that Wardell was quietly released on licence in December 2021. It was his fifth review before the Parole Board. Wardell is now aged 70. Wardell was roped into reconstructions in a police ruse to implicate himself in the crime Wardell was sentenced to life imprisonment for a minimum of 18 years. He was released after spending 26 years behind bars A spokesperson for the Parole Board said: 'We can confirm that a panel of the Parole Board has directed the release of Gordon Wardell following an oral hearing in December 2021. '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.' A 'drunk driver' accused of killing a sophomore student after running a red light admitted drinking a margarita at a dog park before the horror smash with her husky called tequila. Lynlee Pollis, 27, has been charged with running through a red light in her Lexus and smashing into the car of Honor Elizabeth Wallace, 19, at 4.10pm on Sunday. The operations analyst admitted to officers that she had 'one margarita' at Mutts Canine Cantina in Dallas' West Village before the crash. Pollis said she had the $8.75 drink dubbed a 'Barkarita' by the dog park and bar with her husky Tequila Fontaine. She reportedly had 'glassy eyes, slurred speech' and smelled of alcohol when interviewed by officers in hospital. Lynlee Pollis, 27, has been charged with running through a red light and smashing into the car of Honor Elizabeth Wallace, 19, on Sunday at 4.10pm after a 'Barkarita' The operations analyst admitted to officers that she had 'one margarita' at Mutts Canine Cantina in Dallas' West Village before the crash Honor Elizabeth Wallace, 19, died after the accident with Pollis, who allegedly ran a red light before crashing the car An arrest warrant affidavit obtained by Fox 4 said that Pollis had also taken medication for her ADHA before the incident. Authorities confirmed to DailyMail.com that Pollis was released from Dallas County Jail on Wednesday after paying her $100,000 bond. She has been charged with intoxication assault with a vehicle and intoxication manslaughter with a vehicle after smashing her car into Wallace's. Pollis' social media says that she's 'obsessed' with her husky, who was in the car with her at the time of the crash, while studying hospitality management at the University of Kentucky. The blonde was part of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, and happily posed with bottles of champagne, tequila, beer and wine while jetting around Europe. Her social media is littered with pictures of the dog, including one of the pup 'drinking' wine. She collided with Wallace's vehicle after allegedly running a red light at 4.20pm at the exit of Monticello Avenue and State Highway 75 in Dallas. Wallace and her friend, who was a passenger in the car, were rushed to hospital where the university student died. Her friend is in a stable condition but suffered a broken collarbone. Pollis said she had the $8.75 drink dubbed a 'Barkarita' by the dog park and bar with her husky Tequila Fontaine The beverage can be had frozen or on the rocks, with an option to add in a $4 sangria popsicle to the drink She reportedly had 'glassy eyes, slurred speech' and smelled of alcohol when interviewed by officers in hospital Pollis Right who was driving northbound on the same service road, allegedly ran the red light and crashed into Wallace (left) Authorities confirmed to DailyMail.com that Pollis was released from Dallas County Jail on Wednesday after paying her $100,000 bond She has been charged with intoxication assault with a vehicle and intoxication manslaughter with a vehicle after smashing her car into Wallace's Pollis was also taken to hospital, and suffered minor injuries, before being arrested by Dallas Police. Pollis Right who was driving northbound on the same service road, allegedly ran the red light and crashed into Wallace (left) Authorities say that Wallace and her friend were traveling eastbound on Monticello Avenue and were crossing a green light at the northbound N. Central Expressway service road. Pollis, who was driving northbound on the same service road, allegedly ran the red light and crashed into the victims. Wallace, from Grosse Point, Michigan, was a sophomore student at Southern Methodist University, studying Spanish and English. Vice President for Student Affairs, Dr. KC Mmeje, said the community was 'deeply saddened' by her tragic death. 'Honor was a valued member of our community, and we offer our heartfelt condolences and support to all who are affected by this loss. 'Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family, friends and classmates during this difficult time.' Dallas Police say Wallace and her friend were travelling eastbound on Monticello Avenue (right) and were crossing a green light at the northbound N. Central Expressway service road Her social media is littered with pictures of the dog, including one of the pup 'drinking' wine Pollis' social media says that she's 'obsessed' with her husky, who was in the car with her at the time of the crash, while studying hospitality management at the University of Kentucky Dallas Police say Wallace and her friend were travelling eastbound on Monticello Avenue (right) and were crossing a green light at the northbound N. Central Expressway service road The blonde was part of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, and happily posed with bottles of champagne, tequila, beer and wine while jetting around Europe The university asked in a statement to keep Honor's family and friends in 'your thoughts during this difficult time'. The statement continued: 'Honor, 19, had just begun her sophomore year at SMU this Fall. She was from Grosse Pointe, MI, pursuing degrees in Spanish and English. 'Staff members in Students Affairs are making every effort to identify those who were close to Honor to offer care and support. 'We ask for your compassion and understanding during this time as there may be students or others who need assistance and flexibility in your classes as they learn of and process this news. 'Strength and support are found in community, and the SMU community stands ready to support you. Please keep Honor's family and friends in your thoughts during this difficult time.' A Russian killer who used a meat-grinder to dispose of his lover's body has been pardoned and released from jail by Vladimir Putin as a reward for fighting in the war against Ukraine. Dmitry Zelensky, 41 - who has the same surname as the Ukrainian president - was serving an 11-year sentence in a high security penal colony for strangling university graduate Tatiana Melekhina, 27, to death before dismembering her body. A law enforcement source said the 'exceptional cruelty' of the murder had 'shocked even hardened detectives'. 'He did not just dismember her body, he separated the meat and bones, and made mincemeat,' said the source. 'Then he washed this mincemeat down the toilet into the sewage system. He threw the bones into the river. This was his plan to hide the murder.' Killer Dmitry Zelensky, 41, who murdered his lover Tatiana Melekhina and put her remains through a meatgrinder, has been freed from jail Tatiana Melekhina (pictured) was murdered in a case which a law enforcement source said 'shocked even hardened detectives' Russian tyrant Vladimir Putin (pictured) has given the murderer a pardon for fighting in his war against Ukraine A huge search was launched for the missing Tatiana after her father reported her disappearance. Zelensky, from Perm, eventually confessed to killing her after an argument. He had hidden from his lover that he was married with a daughter. When his 44-year-old wife - also called Tatiana - found out, she said: 'I don't know what to say now I didn't know he could be so cruel.' The victim's sister Oksana expressed outrage that the family were not told of Zelensky's release. 'At his trial, it was declared that we would be notified of where he was, and his movements,' she said. 'We were never told anything. 'My father has written to ask for details, but no-one answers us.' His pardon and freedom was confirmed by Zelensky's mother, Galina. It is not known where he fought in the war. Zelensky had hidden from his lover that he was married with a daughter (pictured together above) A huge search was launched for the missing Tatiana (pictured) after her father reported her disappearance His pardon and freedom was confirmed by Zelensky's mother, Galina. It is not known where he fought in the war Zelensky eventually confessed to killing his lover. Pictured: Floral tributes for the victim 'My son went to the [war] for many reasons - he wanted to atone for what he had done,' said the mother. When Zelensky confessed to killing his lover, it emerged that he had promised her a new start in a big city. They drove from their remote Russian town of Gubakha - but she never arrived in the regional capital of Perm. In reality, married father Zelensky had no intention of moving permanently to Perm. Tatiana was reported missing by her father after she failed to call him to say she had arrived. She had promised him before leaving on the 250 mile drive: 'I will call you as soon as I get to the city.' Russians have expressed fears about the number of hardened criminals allowed to fight for six months for Putin - then pardoned and permitted to return to normal life, amid fears of a new crime wave. At the start of the year, Putin started handing out medals to reward violent convicts who were recruited from Russian prisons for their 'courageous' fighting in Ukraine. The Ministry of Defence announced in March that thousands of Russian convicts who fought for private mercenary army Wagner would be pardoned and released. The unmasking of a fugitive behind Germany's biggest fraud as the 'mastermind' of a Russian spy ring operating in Britain is the latest twist in a story that already reads like a Cold War thriller. Jan Marsalek, 43, helped coordinate a group of spies who planned abductions on UK soil, prosecutors told a stunned public gallery at Southwark Crown Court in London on Tuesday. The Austrian, who holds eight passports, is already one of the world's most-wanted men due to his former role as chief operating officer of Wirecard, the jewel of Germany's tech sector before it collapsed in a suspected 1.7billion fraud - the biggest in the country's history. He is now believed to be hiding in Russia under the protection of the GRU - the feared military intelligence agency tasked with carrying out sabotage and assassinations on foreign soil. A series of photos of Marsalek show him sporting multiple different identities. In one he is seen in his former iteration as a smart business executive: slick, neatly shaven and wearing a crisp white shirt under a suit. In others he appears in a series of apparent disguises, from a bushy beard to a pair of thin glasses that present him more as an IT nerd than a member of the c-suite. Jan Marsalek, 43, helped coordinate a group of spies who planned abductions on UK soil, prosecutors told a stunned public gallery at Southwark Crown Court in London on Tuesday A series of photos of Marsalek show him sporting multiple different identities. In one, he wears a pair of glasses (left), while in others he has closely cropped hair Wirecard was once the toast of Germany's business community, with a 24bn (20.7bn) valuation on DAX and hordes of lawyers and PR professionals to polish its public image. As second in command after the CEO, Markus Braun, Marsalek soaked up his fair share of the glory. Charismatic and smooth-talking, he spoke three languages and was admired for always making time for his colleagues, telling them 'For you, always' when they asked for a chat. Then, on June 18, everything came crashing down. Following years of tenuous investigative reporting, the company reported that 1.7bn was missing from its accounts after vanishing from two banks in the Philippines - a region that Marsalek helped oversee. Marsalek had five different passports He was immediately suspected, and that evening met his friend Martin Weiss - who had once worked for the Austrian intelligence services - at a pizza restaurant in Munich. The next day, he was driven over the border to Vienna before taking a private jet to Minsk and then on to Russia. It would be the last time Marsalek would ever travel under his own name. Wirecard later admitted it had been the centre of an 'elaborate and sophisticated fraud'. This of course prompted the inevitable question - who exactly was Jan Marsalek? Born in Vienna on March 15, 1980, Marsalek founded an e-commerce software company aged 19, and was recruited by Wirecard a year later for his technical know-how. He almost brought down Wirecard as soon as he arrived after an 'accident' that saw him send all the incoming traffic through his own computer rather than the company servers. While little else is known about his early life, one family connection stands out. His grandfather, Hans, was an anti-Nazi resistance fighter turned suspected Soviet spy, the FT reported earlier this year. In the post-war period he was accused of overseeing the kidnap of at least four people who were then smuggled back to Russia. The Austrian is already one of the world's most wanted men and subjected to an Interpol Red Notice Even at the height of Wirecard's success, Marsalek Jr made little secret of his admiration of Russia. In Munich, he decorated his office with a collection of ushanka military hats and a set of Russian dolls. He rented a mansion across the street from the Russian consulate, where he hosted parties with spies, and was a member of the Austrian-Russian Friendship Society. But his connections went beyond a harmless appreciation for Russian culture. In 2016, he helped arranged a deployment of Russian fighters to Libya after the death of Colonel Gaddafi. Then, in autumn 2018 - several months after the poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Skripal in Salisbury - he invited a journalist to lunch and showed him the chemical formula for Novichok, which he said he had got from 'friends'. Marsalek appeared to make the most of his shady connections in his attempts to suppress Wirecard's detractors. The former businessman is said to have acted as a 'tasker' for five spies. They include Vanya Gaberova, 29, (left) and 31-year-old Ivan Stoyanov (right) Fellow suspected spies (L-R) Orlin Roussev, 45, Katrin Ivanova, 31 and Bizer Dzhambazov, 41, were previously charged on February 11, 2023 Roussev lived in this guesthouse in the seaside town of Great Yarmouth in Norfolk In 2008, Tobias Bosler, a German investor who had shorted Wirecard, was confronted in his office by a lawyer and two boxers at his office - one of whom punched the wall above his head while the other threatened to kill him. Another investor, Fahmi Quadir, was knocked unconscious by a masked man in New York, while Dan McCrum - the FT journalist who led reporting on Wirecard - was at one point so scared that he slept with a hammer under his pillow. Marsalek is now accused of playing a key role in a two and a half year Russian spying campaign in Britain. The former businessman is said to have acted as a 'tasker' for five Bulgarians - three men and two women - who are alleged to have carried out surveillance activity on behalf of the Russian state. Orlin Roussev, 45, Bizer Dzhambazov, 41, Katrin Ivanova, 31, Ivan Stoyanov, 31, and Vanya Gaberova, 29, who are all Bulgarian nationals with EU settled status, appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court via videolink on Tuesday. Marsalek's whereabouts are of course unknown, with an Interpol Red Notice issued for his arrest. Kathryn Selby, prosecuting, told the court the hub of the espionage activities was Roussev's home in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, where forged documents and a 'significant amount of equipment involved in carrying out surveillance activity was recovered'. The court heard all five defendants were arrested in February for offences contrary to the Official Secrets Act. Alleged spies Katrin Ivanova (left) and Vanya Gaberova seen in an artist's illustration as they appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court via videolink Alledged spies Orlin Roussev (left) Bizer Dzhambazov (centre) and Ivan Stoyanov Roussev, Dzhambazov, and Ivanova were charged and the other two held in Home Office detention. She said: 'Following their arrest, searches were carried out at their home addresses and a large amount of fraudulent identity documents were found at the addresses of Roussev, Dzhambazov, and Ivanova. 'Since then, an investigation into the use of those false documents has found they were used to open several false bank accounts. 'At those addresses, Roussev's in particular, a significant amount of equipment involved in carrying out surveillance activity was recovered. It is the Crown's case that Orlin Roussev's home was the base to carry out espionage involving surveillance of locations and individuals for the Russian state. 'This includes the potential abduction of some of these targets. Information was fed back to the UK and reporting was sent from the UK to a tasker on behalf of Russia, a person known as Jan Marsalek. 'Given this case has a national security backdrop it should be dealt with in accordance with the terrorism protocol.' The offence carries a maximum sentence of 14 years. Dzhambazov and Ivanova, from north London, and Roussev are also charged with possession of false identity documents with improper intention, under section four of the Identity Documents Act 2010. District judge Tan Ikram remanded all five in custody to appear at the Old Bailey on October 13. They are yet to enter formal pleas. The hunt for Marsalek continues. A female office manager whose boss regarded anyone who called in sick as 'snowflakes' has won more than 37,000 in compensation after he told her she used the menopause as an 'excuse for everything'. Karen Farquharson, 49, was dismissed as an 'old biddy with aches and pains' when she took time off due to the symptoms she was suffering. Company founder Jim Clark accused her of 'strolling in' when it suited her and told her to 'just get on with it', an employment tribunal heard. Mrs Farquharson, who had worked at the firm for 27 years, was so upset at his remarks that she went off sick with stress and eventually resigned from her 38,000-a-year job. The accountant has now successfully sued Mr Clark's firm Thistle Marine for unfair dismissal and harassment, and been awarded 37,379.56 in compensation. Karen Farquharson, pictured with her husband Graham, worked for Thistle Marine in Peterhead, Scotland, for 27 years Jim Clark, who founded the firm, claimed that she used the menopause 'as an excuse for everything' The tribunal in Aberdeen heard Mrs Farquharson joined the engineering company in Peterhead, Scotland, in 1995 after leaving school. The firm - which provides services to the oil and fishing industries - had been founded in the late 70s by Mr Clark, 72, and has a turnover of several million pounds a year. 'Over the years working with the company [Mrs Farquharson] had observed that Jim Clark had an issue with employees taking holidays or being off ill,' the tribunal heard. READ MORE: ONE million women quit their jobs over lack of menopause support Advertisement 'Mr Jim Clark was blunt by nature. He would speak his mind. Mr Clark would often refer to employees who were off sick as "snowflakes".' In August 2021 Mrs Farquharson told her employers that she had the menopause and that she was experiencing a number of 'serious symptoms' after which the company paid for her to have a private assessment of her condition. 'The menopause badly impacted on [her],' the tribunal heard. By the autumn of 2022, as well as bleeding, she was suffering from anxiety, a loss of concentration and brain fog. In December 2022, Mrs Farquharson - then aged 48 - worked from home for two days, at first because of heavy snow and then because she was unwell due to 'heavy menopausal bleeding'. The next day she went in, arriving at 2pm. 'She entered the premises and went to her office,' the tribunal heard. 'She passed Jim Clark in the corridor. He spoke to her in a sarcastic tone: "Oh I see you've made it in!". '[Mrs Farquharson] began to explain why she hadn't been in the office earlier that week. She mentioned the snow and also that the day before she had heavy menopausal bleeding. 'Mr Clark gave her a disgusted look and then walked away towards the workshop. [Mrs Farquharson] was very upset and angry at his behaviour and the implication that she did not have good reason to have not been at work earlier in the week.' Confronting him, the office manager said Mr Clark should not treat her the way he did. 'Jim Clark interrupted and accused [her] of "strolling" in and out of work whenever it pleased her and doing what she pleased,' the tribunal heard. 'He also questioned the number of days off she'd taken that year including holidays. 'He then said "menopause, menopause a biddy fucking gets it, just get on wi' it, that's your excuse for everything".' Mrs Farquharson - who is the mother of two girls aged 19 and 21 - was 'shocked' by his outburst, the hearing was told Mrs Farquharson - who is the mother of two girls aged 19 and 21 - was 'shocked' by his outburst, the hearing was told. 'She told him that he had no understanding of what she was going through and she emphasised that he didn't understand the discomfort and challenges that she faced particularly when experiencing heavy bleeding,' the tribunal heard. 'He once more dismissively mentioned the menopause saying "a biddy has aches and pains".' The hearing was told Mrs Farquharson then became 'even more upset and felt hysterical'. The tribunal heard she was 'emotional, angry and crying' and said she 'had to get out of here'. Mrs Farquharson then wrote to the company launching a grievance complaining of the 'disdain and disgust' with which she had been treated. Several days later she discovered her remote access to the company accounts system had been cut off meaning she could no longer work from home. She resigned and took Thistle Marine to the tribunal. At the hearing Mr Clark dismissed the remarks as 'innocent' and suggested Mrs Farquharson had engineered the resignation to get money. Upholding her claims of unfair dismissal and harassment, the panel - chaired by Employment Judge James Hendry - said: 'Jim Clark can best be described as a blunt, self-made man and successful businessman. 'He no doubt has many admirable qualities but empathy for others is not among them. It became clear to us... that he has little time or respect for those, unlike himself, who are not able to work as hard or without illness as he has.' His remarks to Mrs Farquharson violated her dignity, the panel concluded. 'His intention was not to make some innocent remark, as he suggested, but to make his feelings clear about what he regarded as excessive time spent away from the workplace. 'This was a pet hate of his and she knew that. She was aware of his dismissive attitude to people he called "snowflakes" who did not turn up to work for whatever reason. 'Mr Clark must have realised that remarks he made about strolling in, blaming everything on the menopause and trivialising it as only amounting to an ache or pain would have been deeply insulting to her. 'He was aware that she had encountered difficulties with symptoms of the menopause and was also aware that the company had reimbursed her for a medical assessment. 'We were left with the strong impression he was spoiling for an opportunity to have a "go" at the claimant.' '[Mrs Farquharson] felt a deep sense of betrayal and upset at the way in which she had been treated by Jim Clark and the comments he had made.' Discussing the ordeal, Mrs Farquharson described her former boss as a 'dinosaur' and said she is 'still struggling' over what happened. She said: 'I just can't get my head around that I had known this company for 27-and-a-half years and they treated me like rubbish. 'The stress before the tribunal was unbelievable and I know that I have gone through it and I have won, but, I have still got this anxiety and disbelief at what they did. 'I have lost my self-belief, I've got zero confidence now and am very untrusting now. It's been a huge strain. It was the worst experience of my life. 'Mr Clark, I noticed with his age, didn't like change. He didn't like being challenged on things and he was a dinosaur. 'He didn't move with the times. I tried to explain some issues in what you can say and what you can't say and it just fell on deaf ears.' Mrs Farquharson now works in accounts at another company but said she is finding it hard to find her position there because of what happened. Alan Joyce could face the prospect of jail time if he fails to front a Senate inquiry into the blocking of extra flights from Qatar Airways. The former Qantas chief has been warned he will need to face the inquiry when he returns to Australia from a European vacation. Coalition senator Bridget McKenzie warned Mr Joyce that he could face a 'whole raft of processes' if he refuses to answer questions about the government's decision to block a bid from Qatar Airways to introduce more flight into major Australian cities. The parliamentary committee hearing has heard that Australians would have benefitted from cheaper airfares by Christmas if the government hadn't blockws competitor Qatar Airways from adding another 28 routes. Mr Joyce has key information from conversations with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Transport Minister Catherine King about the decision,' she said. 'He is the only one that can go to conversations that he's informally had with his bromance partner, the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese and indeed Minister King,' Senator McKenzie told reporters on Thursday. Alan Joyce (pictured) could face the prospect of jail time if he fails to front a Senate inquiry into the blocking of extra flights from Qatar Airways READ MORE: New Qantas boss is slapped down at feisty hearing Vanessa Hudson has received a baptism of fire after being accused of trying to channel her predecessor Alan Joyce by failing to answer questions at a Senate inquiry. Advertisement 'There is a process within the standing orders and the procedures of the Senate, which will eventually make it very hard for former CEO Joyce to not appear.' Senator McKenzie warned a person had been jailed in the 1950s for ignoring a summons order, but said she hoped 'we don't get there'. Mr Joyce had told the inquiry that he could not attend either in person or via video link due to personal obligations while he was travelling overseas. Meanwhile, Virgin Australia chief executive Jayne Hrdlicka fronted the inquiry on Wednesday telling senators that she had spoken with the transport minister about the Qatari bid for 'five minutes at best' during a one-hour meeting. She said Ms King had told her Mr Joyce was 'not happy' about the Qatari bid and was seeking a meeting. 'Nonetheless, I was left with a very clear impression that the decision to proceed was very compelling and imminent. 'Based on this conversation, I felt comfortable that Qatar would be granted additional air rights,' Ms Hrdlicka said. Senator McKenzie also formally invited Ms King to front the inquiry. Coalition senator Bridget McKenzie (pictured) warned Mr Joyce that he could face a 'whole raft of processes' if he refuses to answer questions New Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson (pictured) received a baptism of fire after being accused of trying to channel her predecessor Alan Joyce by failing to answer questions at a Senate inquiry The dramas are the latest in a series of troubles that have plagued Qantas in recent weeks - with the biggest two potentially costing the airline hundreds of millions of dollars in penalties. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is taking the airline to Federal Court, claiming it sold tickets on thousands of already-cancelled flights. While the High Court earlier this month agreed the airline's sacking of 1,700 workers during the Covid pandemic was illegal under the Fair Work Act. New Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson received a baptism of fire on Tuesday after being accused of trying to channel her predecessor Mr Joyce by failing to answer questions at a Senate inquiry. The new chief executive was lashed by Senator McKenzie for not coming prepared to answer questions about Yes campaign logos painted on the side of Qantas jets Wednesday. 'I hope you'll respect, filibustering might have been the strategy of the former chief executive officer,' she said. 'I don't appreciate it from the current one.' Qantas showed its support for the Indigenous Voice to parliament by adding a Yes design to the side of three of their aircraft in August. Ms Hudson had to take a question about who made the decision for the planes to be adorned with the design on notice. Asked who made the decision to back the Yes campaign, the airline said it was made by Mr Joyce in consultation with the group management committee, not by the airline's board. Earlier, Ms Hudson echoed her apology to consumers and stakeholders, beginning her appearance at the inquiry with yet another 'sorry'. 'There have been times when we have let the wider Australian public down and we understand why people are frustrated and also why some have lost faith in us,' she said. 'As the new CEO. I am determined to fix that.' It is a tale repeated every day on Britain's train network: carriages so busy that people are packed in like sardines. But the situation was the same for the passengers on the first ever journey on a public railway - back in 1825. At least twice as many people than the 300 who had bought tickets are said to have packed in to carriages being pulled by George Stephenson's Locomotion No 1 at Heighington, County Durham, for the nine-mile journey to Darlington. Heighington is believed to be the world's first railway station and has now been given upgraded listing status to mark its key role in the development of the Stockton & Darlington Railway. The building was originally listed at Grade II in 1980 but has now been given Grade II*, meaning it has gone from being deemed of 'special interest' to the status of 'particularly important'. At least twice as many people than the 300 who had bought tickets are said to have packed in to carriages being pulled by George Stephenson's Locomotion No 1 at Heighington, County Durham, for the nine-mile journey to Darlington in September 1825. Above: An engraving depicting the first journey It also means the rules about what development can take place are now even stricter. The building was originally thought to date to the mid-1830s but new research has found it was actually completed in 1827. Experts therefore believe it is the earliest ever example of a railway station. Before 1827, the concept of a railway station did not exist at all. Heighington was not officially referred to as a station until the late 1830s, when the train network was growing. Locomotion No 1, which was originally named 'Active' - was built by engineer George Stephenson - considered the father of the railways - and his son Robert. The first journey took place from Heighington in September of 1825. Locomotion was built at the Stephensons' works in Newcastle-upon-Tyne and was then transported down to the railway in pieces by horse and cart. It was then re-assembled and placed on the line where the building now is, between the villages of Heighington and Aycliffe. Heighington is believed to be the world's first railway station and has now been given upgraded listing status to mark its key role in the development of the Stockton & Darlington Railway The building was originally listed at Grade II in 1980 but has now been given Grade II*, meaning it has gone from being deemed of 'special interest' to the status of 'particularly important. Above: The station building in the 1920s Today, as part of the National Collection, the locomotion can be seen at the Darlington Railway Centre and Museum The train reached a maximum speed of 12mph and took two hours to get to Darlington. Locomotion continued hauling trains for the next three years, until a horrifying accident at Heighington in July 1828, when a boiler exploded. The train's driver was killed and its water pumper was injured. Heighington's original purpose was to function as a tavern and to provide shelter and refreshment for workers and customers at the adjacent coal and goods depot. But a newspaper report from September 1827 shows how the building was fulfilling the main functions of a railway station. As well as being a stopping point for trains, it provided shelter to passengers and was a receiving point for unaccompanied parcels and goods being transported by rail. The incorporation of accommodation at the station could also be seen as the forerunner to the station master's house. This integration became a key part of railway stations during the Victorian period. Sarah Charlesworth, listing team leader for Historic England in the north, said: 'It's amazing to think that this simple building in County Durham helped to inspire a way of travelling that's used by billions of people across the world. 'From the humblest single platform station to the vast terminals of St Pancras and the Gard du Nord, they all owe a debt to Heighington & Aycliffe Railway Station.' Niall Hammond, chair of the Friends of the Stockton & Darlington Railway, said: 'Nearly 200 years ago, the S&DR was the railway that got the world on track, by creating all the fundamental ideas of the modern railway and inspiring a worldwide revolution in transport and communications. It's fantastic to see this recognised in the new listing upgrade and a just reward for all the in-depth research by Historic England and our own members, especially the late Brendan Boyle.' Locomotion No 1, which was originally named 'Active' - was built by engineer George Stephenson - considered the father of the railways - and his son Robert Heighington is still an active railway station and is on a line running between Bishop Auckland and After the development of the more advanced Rocket in 1829, Locomotion Number 1 quickly became obsolete. It was rebuilt and remained in service until 1841 when it was converted into a stationary engine. In 1857 it was preserved, going on display in Alfred Kitching's workshop near Hopetown Carriage Works and later at Darlington's main station, Bank Top. Today, as part of the National Collection, the locomotion can be seen at the Darlington Railway Centre and Museum. The bride and groom of the Iraqi wedding where a horror inferno killed more than 100 of their guests survived after escaping through the kitchen door, it has been revealed. Newlyweds Haneen and Revan, who were feared to have perished in the blaze, are now being treated in hospital and have been left in a 'dire' psychological situation. The tragedy, which killed at least 113 people and injured 150 more, has plunged the northern town of Qaraqosh, near Mosul, into mourning as grieving families buried their loved ones and held a ceremony at The Cemetery of the Resurrection. Survivors said hundreds of people were at the wedding celebration, which followed an earlier church service. About an hour into the event fireworks ignited a ceiling decoration while the bride and groom danced. Video purportedly showed the newlyweds slow-dancing before Haneen, who was wearing a large white wedding dress, turned around in horror to see flames rapidly climbing the walls as burning material fell from the roof. Newlyweds Haneen (L) and Revan (R), who were feared to have perished in the blaze, survived after escaping through the kitchen door, it has been revealed This is the horrifying moment that a fire tore through the hall as the bride and groom danced at their wedding The inferno, which killed at least 113 people and injured 150 more, has plunged the northern town of Qaraqosh, near Mosul, into mourning as grieving families buried their loved ones Mourners attend a mass following the fatal fire. The survivors have described it as 'hell' with children as young as eight months old and entire families - including a couple and their three-year-old child - among the dead It has now been revealed by Rudaw that the bride and groom ran for their lives through the kitchen, narrowly avoiding death. It's understood the couple - who earlier beamed at cameras on what should have been a special day - are being treated at a hospital in Erbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, where sources told the news outlet that their psychological situation is 'dire'. From wedding joy to a mass funeral: Devastated families bury their loved-ones just hours after inferno sparked by fireworks ripped through Iraqi wedding killing at least 110 Advertisement The father of the groom also confirmed that the couple survived the blaze that tore through the large hall in the Christian town, which had survived ISIS occupation. He told CNN: 'I hold the owner of the hall responsible for what happened at the party because there are no extinguishers or safety measures in the hall.' Another guest told private Iraqi channel Alawla TV: 'The bride and groom are fine. I was just with them now, but their condition is devastating due to what happened to people here.' Injured guests were transferred to hospitals for treatment in the nearby cities of Erbil, Mosul and Duhok. Nader Salm, a 49-year-old translator from Qaraqosh - also known as Hamdaniya - told CNN that the wedding tragedy 'hurt us more than ISIS'. The guest added: 'At least when ISIS came we could escape, but now a wedding became a graveyard for us.' Those who survived the inferno have described it as 'hell' with children as young as eight-months-old and entire families - including a couple and their three-year-old child - among the dead. This image shows the wedding moments before the blaze. The couple who have survived have been left in a 'dire' psychological state A firefighter checks the damage in the event hall in Qaraqosh A victim lies at a hospital following a fatal fire at a wedding celebration in the district of Hamdaniya on Wednesday Mourners are overcome with emotion during the funeral of victims of the fatal fire of a wedding celebration, in Hamdaniya on Wednesday Family members are overcome with grief during a funeral of victims Rana Yakoub, a 27-year-old victim of the fire on Wednesday Mourners carry a coffin of a victim during the funeral in Hamdaniya, Iraq, on Wednesday Government officials have announced the arrest of 14 people over Tuesday night's fire Mourners attend a mass service following the fatal fire which sparked a horrifying tragedy Hundreds of people attend the funeral to pay their respects as the community mourns The Cemetery of the Resurrection lies about a mile north of Qaraqosh 'This was not a wedding. This was hell,' said Mariam Khedr, crying and hitting herself as she waited for officials to return the bodies of her daughter Rana Yakoub, 27, and three young grandchildren - the youngest being eight-months-old. Government officials have announced the arrest of 14 people over Tuesday night's fire, including the owners of the events hall, and promised a swift investigation with results announced within 72 hours. The government has also ordered immediate inspections of large public gathering spaces such as hotels, schools and hospitals. Three people who attended the wedding said the hall appeared poorly equipped for the disaster with no visible fire extinguishers and few exits. Fire fighters arrived 30 minutes after the blaze began, they said. The United States, which led an invasion of the country in 2003, said on Wednesday it was ready to talk to the Iraqi government about any assistance it could offer. A young victim of the fire lies at a hospital in Erbil, Iraq, on Wednesday A child is among the 150 victims recovering, and is being cared for at a hospital in Erbil, Iraq An injured child lays on a hospital bed after a fire broke out at a wedding celebration The tragedy has revived memories of deadly fires that swept through two hospitals in Iraq in 2021, killing at least 174 people in all, that were at the time blamed on negligence, lax regulations and corruption. Preliminary information indicated that the building was made of highly flammable construction materials, contributing to its rapid collapse, state media said. 'We saw the fire pulsating, coming out of the hall. Those who managed got out and those who didn't got stuck,' said Imad Yohana, a 34-year-old who escaped the inferno. A woman outside the morgue where bodies lay outside in bags as vehicles came to collect those that had been identified added: 'I lost my daughter, her husband and their three-year-old. They were all burned. My heart is burning.' On Wednesday, mourners dressed in black streamed towards the cemetery in Qaraqosh a line of pickup trucks drove past, carrying the dead for burial. Hundreds gathered, many sobbing, as coffins were carried at shoulder height, some shrouded in white, one with a floral cloth, before being laid on the ground where distraught mourners tightly embraced as caskets were lowered into their graves. This picture shows the burnt out interior of an event hall in Qaraqosh where the fire broke out during the wedding on Wednesday The charred remains of chairs are seen in the gutted out wedding hall on Wednesday Iraqi security officials inspect the site of the fire on Wednesday in Qaraqosh, near Mosul, Iraq In a sermon interrupted at times by the wails of women clad in black, a priest at Al-Tahira Church in Qaraqosh - told mourners that Iraq had been united in grief but criticised officials for 'your corruption, your favouritism.' 'Nothing is up to standard in this country,' he said as mourners, some crying, others holding pictures of the deceased, listened on. 'We have to hold those who are responsible accountable, enough, enough!' The terrifying blaze, which was caught on camera, sparked scenes of chaos, with the up to 900 panicked guests rushing towards the exits as the hall became engulfed in flames and filled up with toxic smoke in seconds. Survivors said many were left trapped in the burning building as they couldn't see through the black smoke. A man called Youssef, who stood nearby with burns covering his hands and face, said he had not been able to see anything when the fire began and the power cut out. He had grabbed his three-year-old grandson and managed to get out. But his wife, Bashra Mansour, in her 50s, did not make it. She fell in the chaos and died. Hundreds of wedding guests, many of them children, were rushed to hospital with severe burns across their bodies, with many fighting for their lives. Wedding guest Rania Waad, who sustained a burn to her hand, said that as Haneen and Revan 'were slow dancing, the fireworks started to climb to the ceiling and the whole hall went up in flames'. 'We couldn't see anything,' the 17-year-old said, choking back sobs. 'We were suffocating, we didn't know how to get out.' Other wedding guests also said that the blaze was caused by fireworks, which had been set off during the first dance. A man injured in the fire, speaking from his hospital bed, said: 'They lit up fireworks. It hit the ceiling, which caught fire. The entire hall was on fire in seconds.' Witnesses said the wedding hall caught fire at around 10.45pm local time (8.45pm UK time) during the couple's first dance. Video shows wedding guests dancing together before the newlyweds walked onto the dance floor. Harrowing footage shows Haneen resting her head against Revan while he holds her waist as they share their first dance. But within minutes, the wedding turned into a nightmare as the blaze broke out, sending shards of burning material to the ground around them. Panicked guests began running out of the burning building, but over 100 were trapped inside and died of burns and smoke inhalation. Chaotic scenes were visible outside the building, with screaming guests crying for help from medics who had quickly arrived on the scene. Injured wedding guests were later seen lying in hospital beds with bandages covering the burns they sustained in the horrific blaze. Ahmed Dubardani, a health official in the province, said: 'The majority of them were completely burned and some others had 50 to 60 per cent of their bodies burned. 'This is not good at all. The majority of them were not in good condition.' In the blaze's aftermath, only charred metal and debris could be seen as emergency crews sifted through the scene of utter devastation. Most residents of Qaraqosh, which is mostly Christian but also home to some members of Iraq's Yazidi minority, fled the town when Islamic State seized it in 2014. But they returned after the group was ousted in 2017. 'Yesterday there was a wedding and happiness. Now we are preparing their burial,' said deacon Hani al-Kasmousa at Mar Youhanna church, where the wedding service took place before the evening celebrations. When Pope Francis visited Qaraqosh in 2021, residents crowded the streets in bright clothes, with olive branches borne aloft and Assyrian hymns blared from loudspeakers to celebrate the inhabitants' return after years of militant occupation. Only about 300,000 Christians remain in Iraq after most of the 1.5 million who lived in the country fled during the chaos following the U.S.-led invasion, an exodus aggravated by Islamic State's seizure of Ninevah plains towns in 2014. On Wednesday, with dressy shoes, smart jackets and children's things lying on the ground around the remains of the wedding hall, and most people around town wearing the black of mourning, Francis' visit felt deep in the past. Anti-ULEZ activists dressed as a dinosaur and dog used a tipper truck to block one of Sadiq Khan's mobile 'spy' vans used to enforce London's Ultra Low Emission Zone. The baffling footage is the latest protest against the vans, which use number plate recognition cameras to catch and fine non-compliant vehicles driving in the ULEZ. Activists opposed to Mr Khan's flagship policy - which last month expanded to cover the entire city - have already attacked hundreds of static cameras prompting the London Mayor to roll out a fleet of vehicles to catch those flouting the rules. But these too have become a target, with opponents to the Ulez - who call themselves 'Blade Runners' - slashing their tyres, spray painting cameras and smashing windows. However, some activists have taken to protesting in a more 'peaceful' method by simply using other vehicles to block the camera's view, forcing vans to move on. Anti-ULEZ activists dressed as a dinosaur and dog used a tipper truck to block one of Sadiq Khan 's mobile 'spy' vans used to enforce London 's Ultra Low Emission Zone. The activists used a tipper truck with "ULEZ van" sprayed on it to block view of the enforcement vehicle's camera A ULEZ official appears glum after police said they would be taking no action against the protesters Footage seen by MailOnline, has shown the moment one group used a tipper truck with 'ULEZ Camera' to block the van in London. Activists, one dressed as a dinosaur and another wearing a dog costume, then mock ULEZ officials, who are speaking to two officers from the Metropolitan Police. 'You've got us for company and we're very nice, we keep you company, don't we,' one ULEZ protester cheekily says to the two men in charge of the enforcement van. The woman then turns to the pair of female police officers as they walk away from the scene, and says: 'Peaceful protest is allowed in this country.' 'Yes, yes,' one officer replies before they get in their car and drive off, leaving the activists to continue with their bizarre protest. Later, the person in the inflatable dinosaur suit is seen waddling towards to two men, as another activist holds a sign saying 'ULEZ scam' in front of the van's ANPR camera. The video comes as 'Blade Runners' ramped up their campaign of vandalism trashing yet another one of the vans this week. Images show one of the vehicles with its windows and windscreen smashed, in the latest escalation by activists determined to thwart Mr Khans much-hated levy. Video footage of the vandalism was shared on Facebook with the caption 'The Bladerunners are not backing down', with anti-Ulez activists mocking the criminal damage, hailing the vandalism as 'amazing work'. Activists, one dressed as a dinosaur and another wearing a dog costume, mocked ULEZ officials during their peaceful protest Two police officers were filmed speaking to ULEZ officials before they drove off As well as blocking the ULEZ van's view with a truck, protesters also put a sign saying "ULEZ scam" in front of the camera But the incident is now being investigated by the Metropolitan Police, with the force today hitting out at the vandals. A spokeswoman from the Met told MailOnline: 'We are aware of reports of damage to ANPR vans and are investigating. The Met has and continues to treat criminal activity in relation to Ulez seriously and has deployed considerable resources to our operation. 'Where there are possible lines of enquiry, local investigators will follow up using a range of investigative approaches including CCTV trawls, witness searches and an assessment of forensic opportunities. 'We are aware of posts on social media referencing Ulez cameras and techniques to disable them. If a report is made to police that someone has vandalised a camera, it will be investigated.' Last week, videos emerged showing Blade Runners wrecking one of the Ulez vans in Maiden Lane, Crayford, plastering it with graffiti and slashing its tyres. The same van was also pictured wrapped in a huge blue bag covering it down to the wheels. It was posted with the message: 'Can we all send our thoughts and prayers to this poor ULEZ spy van that's looking rather... deflated.' Anti-Ulez campaigners have turned their fire on mobile camera vans trying to enforce the rules, by letting down the tyres and One social media post showed a van being towed away on a recovery truck Meanwhile, terrified road workers have resorted to making crude handmade signs in an apparent bid to not be targeted by Blade Runners. Although the mobile cameras can only detect incompliant vehicles while stationary, they can move between boroughs to be deployed at hotspots including near Heathrow airport. People who drive in the zone with a non-compliant vehicle and fail to pay the 12.50 daily fee are initially being sent warning letters. In the coming weeks Transport for London (TfL) is expected to start issuing rule-breakers with 180 fines, which will reduce to 90 if paid within 14 days. A TfL spokesman added: 'Vandalism is unacceptable and all incidents on our network are reported to the police for investigation. 'Criminal damage to Ulez cameras or vehicles puts the perpetrators at risk of prosecution and injury, while simultaneously risking the safety of the public. 'Camera vandalism will not stop the Ulez operating London-wide. 'All vandalised cameras are repaired or replaced as soon as possible. 'We have an extensive camera network which is sufficient to support the effective operation of the scheme. 'Anyone driving a non-compliant vehicle within the expanded zone will be detected and we advise everyone to check whether their vehicle is compliant and to consider the various support that is available to help transition to greener modes of transport.' Passerby Chris Thorn spotted a highway maintenance truck parked on double-yellow lines in Biggin Hill in Bromley on Monday morning with a 'NOT ULEZ' sign hastily attached to the vehicle Last week, a set of Dartford traffic lights was completely cut in half in an anti-ULEZ attack Hundreds of Ulez cameras across the capital have been damaged by vigilantes, who have cut wires on the equipment and sprayed the lenses with paint Anti-ULEZ campaigners, known as the Blade Runners, claim to have disconnected or destroyed at least 500 of the 2,700 static cameras Earlier this week another so-called 'Blade Runner' was hailed a 'hero' online after taking a mobile camera van out of action by pretending to breakdown in front of it. The activist filmed himself parking his red Renault Captur directly behind an enforcement van in London and opened his car boot as if he was in need of roadside assistance while also placing a warning triangle on the ground. But the positioning of the car directly behind the automatic number plate camera on top of the van meant it could not catch rule-breakers on the capital's roads. The video notched up more than a million views on TikTok. Suspended GB News host Laurence Fox was previously blasted for 'baiting women for clicks' by a former guest on his show. Fox was suspended on Wednesday after he was condemned for saying 'Who would want to s**g that?' in a series of sexist comments about a female political journalist. The fallout led to GB News also suspending star presenter Dan Wootton, who was hosting the programme when the lewd remarks were made. Now a newly emerged clip has revealed how the controversial right-wing activist was previously confronted by TV historian Tessa Dunlop on his show in December. Sharing the clip on X, formerly Twitter, Dr Dunlop tells Fox: 'Generally you like to poke with a stick. You go as far as you can, you push the right-wing envelope. You men have disproportionately large platforms. You get little me on, a doctor incidentally but nonetheless, just a little woman, and you bait us for clicks.' TV historian Doctor Tessa Dunlop (pictured) previously warned Laurence Fox he 'baited women for clicks' Dr Dunlop was appearing on Fox's GB News show in December when she made the comments A clip from the show has since re-emerged after the controversial right-wing activist was suspended on Wednesday by GB News Fox (right) spoke about Ava Evans during Dan Wootton (left) Tonight on Tuesday In her post on social media, she added: 'I warned Laurence Fox against "bear baiting" women for clicks. (What was said yesterday went far further than that). Why are right-wing men given disproportionate platforms from which to spew their filth?' She appeared on Fox's show to discuss Jeremy Clarkson's comments on Meghan Markle in his newspaper column at the time, in which the ex-Top Gear host wrote about dreaming of seeing the Duchess of Sussex being forced to 'parade naked' through a UK town. On Wednesday, GB News suspended ex-Lewis star Fox following his comments about journalist Ava Evans, in a segment broadcast during Dan Wootton Tonight. The broadcaster apologised for Fox's remarks about Ava Evans, the political correspondent for news website Joe, on Tuesday. Political activist Fox told the show: 'Show me a single self-respecting man that would like to climb into bed with that woman, ever, ever, who wasn't an incel? 'Who would want to sh*g that?' Ms Evans shared a clip of the comments on X, with the caption: 'Laurence Fox just did a whole speech on GB News on why men apparently won't s**g me?' The clip has been viewed more than 28 million times already. In a follow-up tweet to her 100,000 followers, she added the footage made her feel 'physically sick'. Dr Dunlop lashed out on social media after Fox was suspended for making lewd comments about journalist Ava Evans Ms Evans told Channel 5's Jeremy Vine show that she is 'really hurt' by Fox's comments It comes after she made comments about men's mental health and suicide on the BBC's Politics Live on Monday, in which she dismissed calls for a dedicated minister on the issue Media regulator Ofcom said it had received an unspecified number of complaints about the comments, which its team would now assess against its broadcast rules. But Fox doubled down yesterday, saying that he 'stands by every word of what I said' and he 'wouldn't want to s**g a hyper offended fourth wave feminist and not apologise'. During Tuesday's discussion on GB News, the strapline on the screen read: 'Smirking Face of Disdain', with the text under it reading: 'Hard-left commentator slammed for shrugging off male suicide crisis.' What did Laurence Fox say on GB News? Laurence Fox: 'We're past the watershed so I can say this: show me a single self-respecting man that would like to climb into bed with that woman, ever, ever, who wasn't an Incel? 'That little woman has been fed, spoon-fed oppression day after day after day... starting with the lie of the gender wage gap, and she's sat there and I'm going, if I met you in a bar and that was like sentence three, chances of me just walking away are just huge. 'We need powerful strong amazing women who make great points for themselves, we don't need these sort of feminist 4.0... they're pathetic and embarrassing. 'Who would want to s**g that?' Advertisement It comes after Ms Evans made comments about men's mental health and suicide on the BBC's Politics Live on Monday, in which she dismissed calls for a dedicated minister on the issue. Fox told Wootton: 'That little woman has been fed, spoon-fed oppression day after day after day... starting with the lie of the gender wage gap, and she's sat there and I'm going, if I met you in a bar and that was like sentence three, chances of me just walking away are just huge. 'We need powerful, strong, amazing women who make great points for themselves, we don't need these sort of feminist 4.0... they're pathetic and embarrassing.' Wootton replied: 'Well, look, she, I'm just going to provide a touch of balance from her because she did actually respond to this earlier today, saying that she regretted her comments but she didn't apologise.' Wootton added: 'And she's a very beautiful woman, Laurence, very beautiful woman.' The discussion came after Ms Evans, a former producer at LBC, appeared on BBC's Politics Live on Monday and made comments about men's mental health. That BBC debate featured Evans alongside comedian Geoff Norcott, who spoke about how suicide remains the biggest cause of death for men under 50. During the discussion on GB News, the strapline on the screen read: 'Smirking Face of Disdain' Fox made the comments about Ava Evans (pictured), a correspondent for online news site Joe Ms Evans shared a clip of the comments on X, which has been viewed more than 28 million times The discussion came after Ava Evans (pictured) appeared on BBC 's Politics Live on Monday When the host mentioned a Conservative MP's suggestion for a dedicated minister to look at these issues, Ms Evans said: 'I think that it feeds into the culture war a little bit, this minister for men argument. What has Laurence Fox said after the backlash? Comments posted by Laurence Fox on social media platform X this morning: 'Morning, morning. 'First of all, don't take a pop at @danwootton for something I said. That's not fair. 'Secondly. I stand by every word of what I said. If a woman wants to go on television and belittle male suicide, she is totally within her rights to do so and not apologise, just as I am totally within my rights to say that I wouldn't want to sh*g a hyper offended 4th wave feminist and not apologise, just as people are totally within their rights to be offended by my stating I would run a mile in the opposite direction from women like her, should our paths cross in a bar. 'It's called free speech. 'I realise that the new woke world is low on laughter and high on offence, but it's still worth trying to find the lighter moments in this joyless new cancel culture which has been created for us. 'This lady has said on air that she wants men to be "frightened" and "terrified". Tumbleweed from the media at her premeditation and malevolence. Because it's not a man saying it. Which rather proves my point. 'You are totally entitled to find my mockery of the insane hypocrisy in this world not to your taste, but that's me, and I will continue to be me, as a wise man once said: "Be yourself. Everyone else is taken." 'So you keep trying to cancel away in your state of permanent offence, I've been cancelled already and may well be again, but I don't care one bit, and I will keep defending my right to have an opinion on issues which concern me. 'Without free speech and the presumption of innocence we are not free. We aren't quite communist Eastern Europe yet. We may very close, but not quite there. It's still worth fighting for. 'So if you are expecting a grovelling apology, I suggest you don't hold your breath. I won't ever apologise to the mob. 'Have a lovely day. 'In this self censoring world, speak your mind. 'Live strong and free.' Advertisement '[Mental illness] is a crisis that's endemic throughout the country, not specific to men. And I think a lot of ministers bandy this about to - I'm sorry - make an enemy out of women.' Ms Evans later said on X: 'I was a little rash on my anti-minister for men comments which I do regret and am actually very interested in a brief for a minister on young men's mental health.' This morning, Ms Evans was asked about Fox's comments during an appearance on Channel 5's Jeremy Vine show. She confirmed someone had sent the clip to her and she did not see it live. Questioned over how she felt about what Fox said, Ms Evans told Vine: 'I don't... I think the clip speaks for itself. I don't have anything to say about it at all. 'I'm actually a journalist rather than a commentator and I'd much rather be judged or asked about my work than have people talking about my body. I don't... sorry, I'm a bit speechless, I just don't really know what to say.' After fellow panellist Carole Malone asked if she was hurt by it, Ms Evans added: 'I'm really hurt by it, I am. I'm shocked about by it actually, I'm shocked that it went out. 'Actually do you know this is the sort of talk that you worry that men have about you when you're not in the room. There is always sort of a worry in the back of your mind which is: "Are people actually interested in what I'm saying or what I'm doing?" 'Or are they just looking at me... physically and I think that that clip proves that there are some men who are.' Scotland First Minister Humza Yousaf branded Reclaim Party leader Fox a 'vile Neanderthal' over his comments. Mr Yousaf said on X: 'What a vile Neanderthal @LozzaFox is, and an example of bystander behaviour enabling such misogyny from the presenter. 'I'm so sorry @AvaSantina had to listen to this. It is why men have to step up and challenge misogynistic abuse wherever we see it. Pleased Ofcom investigating.' Within ten minutes, Fox had responded, saying: 'The feeling is entirely mutual, you vile Neanderthal.' Fox's post included a clip of Mr Yousaf speaking at Holyrood while justice secretary, pointing out that the majority of those in powerful positions in Scotland were white. Last night's comments drew a strong reaction on X, with broadcaster Carol Vorderman telling Ms Evans: 'Please know that ALL decent people are on your side. We're grateful for your voice. Do not let them bully you. I know only too well how difficult that can be. But we ARE winning. All of us together.' Political commentator Usama Ijaz said: 'I am glad that Ava is standing up to Fox and calling him out for his misogynistic behavior. It is important to hold people accountable for their actions, and Fox deserves to be called out for his misogyny. Love you, Ava. We will always support you.' In a statement posted to X this morning, GB News said: 'GB News has formally suspended Laurence Fox while we continue our investigation into comments he made on the channel last night. Laurence Fox: From screen actor to founder of the Reclaim Party Actor Laurence Fox rose to fame through various acting roles and is most well-known for portraying DS James Hathaway in the long-running TV series Lewis, which came to an end in 2015. The actor, 45, has credits in films that include the 2001 production of Gosford Park, the 2007 TV movie A Room With A View and the recent 2022 film My Son Hunter, in which he plays the lead role of Hunter, the son of American president Joe Biden. Born into an acting dynasty, Fox is related to a slew of famous thespians, including his cousin Freddie Fox, who starred in the 2011 film The Three Musketeers and Netflix series The Crown, playing former prime minister Margaret Thatcher's son Mark. Laurence Fox married fellow thespian Billie Piper in 2007 and the pair split in 2016 Sister to Freddie and cousin to Laurence is Emilia Fox, known for her role as Dr Nikki Alexander in BBC TV series Silent Witness. The trio are grandchildren to actor and theatrical agent Robin Fox whose son James is father to Laurence and has starred in Downton Abbey, Sherlock Holmes, Midsomer Murders and New Tricks, among other TV series. Fox married fellow thespian and Doctor Who star Billie Piper in 2007 and the pair split in 2016. They share two sons together, Winston and Eugene. Fox has credits in films that include the 2007 TV movie A Room With A View In 2020, Fox appeared on BBC Question Time and was involved in a debate over Meghan Markle, white male privilege and racism which led to the actor saying he would take a break from social media. Following his appearance, the actor founded political party the Reclaim Party in October 2020, and the website says he did so after his appearance led to him being 'cancelled' from a 22-year-old acting career. After he set up the Reclaim Party, Fox unsuccessfully stood for London mayor during the mayoral election of 2021. Fox appeared on BBC Question Time in 2020 and was in a debate over Meghan Markle, white male privilege and racism His manifesto included promises to deliver 'free travel on the Tubes and buses for six months' and 'tough New York style community policing to target petty crime'. According to the Reclaim Party website, the party exists 'for patriotism and believes hard work should be rewarded.' Reclaim is strongly associated with the 'culture wars' and Fox has previously expressed scepticism about the Covid vaccine and opposed lockdowns during the pandemic. Fox has been a presenter on GB News and according to the broadcaster's website he 'tackles the issues of the day' with a 'unique and outgoing style'. Advertisement 'Mr Fox's suspension is effective immediately and he has been taken off air. We will be apologising formally to Ms Evans today.' This followed another statement last night, in which GB News said: 'Comments made tonight on GB News by Laurence Fox were totally unacceptable. 'What he said does not reflect our values and we apologise unreservedly for the comments and the offence they have caused. We have launched an investigation and will be apologising to the individual involved.' But Fox refused to apologise and posted a lengthy statement on X this morning, saying: 'First of all, don't take a pop at Dan Wootton for something I said. That's not fair. 'Secondly. I stand by every word of what I said. If a woman wants to go on television and belittle male suicide, she is totally within her rights to do so and not apologise, just as I am totally within my rights to say that I wouldn't want to sh*g a hyper offended fourth wave feminist and not apologise, just as people are totally within their rights to be offended by my stating I would run a mile in the opposite direction from women like her, should our paths cross in a bar. It's called free speech.' He added that the 'new woke world is low on laughter and high on offence, but it's still worth trying to find the lighter moments in this joyless new cancel culture which has been created for us'. In the post, Fox included a clip of Ms Evans saying on Piers Morgan Uncensored on TalkTV that 'men should be frightened to touch women in a way they're not comfortable with'. Fox added in his statement: 'You are totally entitled to find my mockery of the insane hypocrisy in this world not to your taste, but that's me, and I will continue to be me, as a wise man once said: "Be yourself. Everyone else is taken." 'So you keep trying to cancel away in your state of permanent offence, I've been cancelled already and may well be again, but I don't care one bit, and I will keep defending my right to have an opinion on issues which concern me. 'Without free speech and the presumption of innocence we are not free. We aren't quite communist Eastern Europe yet. We may very close, but not quite there. It's still worth fighting for. 'So if you are expecting a grovelling apology, I suggest you don't hold your breath. I won't ever apologise to the mob. Have a lovely day.' Signing off the message he said: 'In this self censoring world, speak your mind. Live strong and free.' Following his suspension, Fox followed this post up with a claim that he had done a 'pre interview' with the channel 'so they knew exactly what I intended to say'. While sharing a screenshot which appeared to look like an exchange about news stories he was being asked to comment on, Fox wrote: 'A phone call might have been polite.' But Wootton apologised for a 'very unfortunate lapse in judgment', in a follow-up post to an earlier apology. He wrote on X: 'I want to reiterate my regret over last night's exchange with Laurence on GB News. Having looked at the footage, I can see how inappropriate my reaction to his totally unacceptable remarks appears to be and want to be clear that I was in no way amused by the comments. 'I reacted as I did out of shock and surprise in an off-guard moment while working out how to respond as he continued to speak by searching for tweets @AvaSantina had sent earlier in the day while having them read out in my ear at the same time. However, I should have intervened immediately to challenge offensive and misogynistic remarks. 'I apologise unreservedly for what was a very unfortunate lapse in judgment on my part under the intense pressure of a bizarre exchange. I know I should have done better. I'm devastated that I let down the team and our supportive GBN family. 'We seek to tackle the issue and not the person, which I intend to stress again on air tonight.' In an earlier message last night to Ms Evans, he had said: 'I think you're brilliant. Earlier tonight I was attempting to find your tweets to read back from my iPad and couldn't locate them. 'I apologise for what was said during the course of my show and should have done this immediately on air. This is not what our channel is about.' Dan Wootton was later suspended by GB News shortly after Fox shared what appeared to be a private text exchange about the segment between himself and Wootton featuring laughing emojis. Posting the conversation, Fox wrote: 'Honesty is the best policy.' The apparent exchange began saying: 'Making you giggle is my weekly joy.' And then a response which said: 'You can imagine them freaking out in the gallery!!!!!' GB News then announced just before 4pm that Wootton had also been suspended. A spokesman said: 'GB News has suspended Dan Wootton following comments made on his programme by Laurence Fox last night. This follows our decision earlier today to formally suspend Mr Fox. We are conducting a full investigation.' Today a spokesperson for dmg media said: 'Following events this week, dmg media can confirm that Dan Woottons freelance column with MailOnline - which had already been paused - has now been terminated, along with his contract.' A 13-year-old schoolboy was stabbed in another south London attack yesterday afternoon, on the same day Elianne Andam was killed in Croydon. The attack on the teenage boy happened at around 3.30pm on Smallwood Road, Wandsworth, on September 27. Police and paramedics rushed to the scene and the youngster was taken to hospital with stab wounds. His injuries are said to be non life-threatening and non life-changing, and the Met Police confirmed the incident is being investigated. It was the second youth attack to take place in broad daylight yesterday, after 15-year-old 'hero' Elianne was stabbed to death on her way to school as she stepped in to protect a friend. A teenage boy said to have been dressed in black stabbed Elianne in the neck and chest with a 'sword-like' zombie knife after her friend rejected his flowers and love letter, before he was arrested on a tram around an hour later. The daylight attack on the boy happened at around 3.30pm on Smallwood Road, Wandsworth, on September 27 It was the second youth attack to take place in broad daylight yesterday, after 15-year-old 'hero' Elianne Andam was stabbed to death on her way to school Elianne, who dreamed of being a lawyer, was attacked at 8.30am yesterday after stepping off the number 60 bus outside the Whitgift Shopping Centre - less than a mile away from her school gates and around 600 yards from her home. A bus driver and passers-by battled to save her but Elianne died on the pavement just minutes after the attack. Her devastated family told MailOnline of their grief today. An aunt, who only gave her name as Marian, said: 'You just can't comprehend the heartbreak of the last 24-hours, how Elianne went to school and never came home'. Speaking at Elianne's mother's home in Croydon, her aunt said: 'She wanted to be a lawyer, she went to private school paid for by my sister and had a great future ahead of her. She was a lovely girl, she loved doing her hair, had beautiful natural hair, and she really loved gymnastics. 'We're a big family and we are all here for our sister, to support her, we're a big family this has left us absolutely devastated. My sister is not feeling good, this only happened yesterday. It hasn't sunk in yet, it's a tragedy.' A youth worker said he understood the teenage boy tried to give a bouquet of flowers to his former girlfriend on the bus but tensions flared when they stepped off the red double-decker - which was packed with commuters and other school children. The victim stepped in to protect her friend and was stabbed in the neck by the teen 'wearing all black'. The suspect, whose weapon was described as being 'as big as a sword', then reportedly fled the scene, being chased by brave passengers who had also been on the bus. Just 75 minutes after the attack, officers arrested the 17-year-old boy five miles away on a tram in nearby New Addington at 9.45am. Metropolitan Police Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain said police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident. Forensic scientists at the scene were seen collecting blood stained red roses , which were said to be at the heart of the row Elianne's aunt, who only gave her name as Marian, said: 'You just can't comprehend the heartbreak of the last 24-hours, how Elianne went to school and never came home' The bus driver and passengers desperately tried to save the schoolgirl, as another reportedly screamed 'that's my best friend', as she tried to push through to see Elianne. Her family, who had been called to the scene, rushed down to the bus stop but she sadly died at 9.21am - before they could say goodbye. Forensic scientists at the scene yesterday were seen collecting blood stained red roses and a love note which read: 'I love you so so much and I [have] never met someone with a better smile and better eyes than what you have. Your [sic] special girl... princess.' More than 40 bunches of flowers have been laid and a number of cards and candles have also been placed at the scene. Suella Braverman has delivered a 'warning shot' to Strasbourg judges that Britain could quit the European Convention on Human Rights as a fresh legal battle looms. The Home Secretary this week used a major speech in Washington DC to demand a shake-up of international rules on refugees. She also spoke of reform of the ECHR as Prime Minister Rishi Sunak grapples with the small boats crisis and tries to revive a plan for migrant deportations to Rwanda. The Government is preparing for a three-day Supreme Court hearing over the Rwanda plan early next month, which will determine whether the scheme is lawful. The showdown in the UK's top court comes after the Court of Appeal ruled in June that the policy did not comply with Britain's obligations under the ECHR. In her speech, Mrs Braverman noted how quitting the ECHR had previously been demanded by Theresa May, one of her predecessors as Home Secretary. According to The Times, Downing Street has given permission for Mrs Braverman to float the prospect of leaving the ECHR. Suella Braverman has delivered a 'warning shot' to Strasbourg judges that Britain could quit the European Convention on Human Rights as a fresh legal battle looms Judges at the Strasbourg-based European Court of Human Rights, which oversees the convention, dramatically blocked migrant flights to Rwanda at the 11th hour last summer Mrs Braverman, pictured in Rwanda in March, spoke of reform of the ECHR as Prime Minister Rishi Sunak grapples with the small boats crisis and tries to revive a deportation plan A group of people thought to be migrants crossing the Channel in a small boat travelling from the coast of France and heading in the direction of Dover, Kent Judges at the Strasbourg-based European Court of Human Rights, which oversees the convention, dramatically blocked migrant flights to Rwanda at the 11th hour last summer. A Tory MP close to the Home Secretary said: 'It's a warning shot, making it clear that if the court stands in our way again, we are prepared to have that battle and leave altogether.' The newspaper reported that No10 approved Mrs Braverman's speech and allowed the Home Secretary to speculate on Britain's membership of the ECHR. But a Downing Street source this morning denied the report that they had authorised Mrs Braverman to float the prospect of the UK quitting the convention. They stressed the Home Secretary's speech had been about reform of international bodies and the global approach to tackling illegal immigration. In her speech, Mrs Braverman said: 'I reject that notion that a country cannot be expected to respect human rights if it is not signed up to an international human rights organisation. 'As if the UK doesnt have a proud history of human rights dating back to Magna Carta, and the ECHR is all that is holding us back from becoming Russia. 'America, Canada, New Zealand, and Japan seem to manage just fine. None of this is particularly novel, nor should it be particularly controversial. 'As Home Secretary, Theresa May called for Britain to leave the ECHR. 'And it was Conservative Party policy under Michael Howard to leave the Refugee Convention Im merely advocating for reform.' The Supreme Court is set to hear legal arguments over the Rwanda policy in a three-day hearing from 9 October. Government minister Richard Holden was sked this morning whether speculation about leaving the ECHR was 'posturing' or an 'actual desire' of ministers. He told Times Radio: 'We're currently going through a court case within the ECHR process around the Rwanda scheme. 'I'm really hopeful that the legal community and the judges will listen to the Government's arguments on that. 'And will see that this scheme is acceptable within the ECHR framework. 'All I was pointing out more generally is the fact that a lot of these agreements were signed a very long time ago when things were incredibly different. 'This was before mass air flight, for example. 'I think it's quite important that we recognise as time moves on, it's right that we ask the questions again about these conventions. 'About whether they're fit for purpose and about how we can sometimes improve our international agreements so they're fit for the modern times.' A driver successfully sued a parking company for hounding him for a 100 'bogus fine' five years after he was accused of parking on a double yellow line. David Goffart asked New Generation Parking Management for evidence when the company tried to fine him 100 for parking his vehicle on double yellow lines in the car park at the Malpas Road near the Tesco Express in Newport, Wales, in January 2018. He heard nothing back and had 'completely forgotten about it' until a 160 fine landed on his doorstep out of the blue from lawyers representing the company, five years later in May. The letter demanded he pay up and threatened the fee could rise if he did not cough up the cash, leaving Mr Goffart, of Pontypridd, feeling stressed and harassed. But rather than sitting on his hands, the motorist decided to sue the firm for 1,000 and took them to Pontypridd County Court, claiming he had been harassed, been caused unnecessary stress, and pursued without evidence. David Goffart, of Pontypridd, 'couldn't believe it' when New Generation Parking sent him a 160 fine, five years after they accused him of parking on double yellow lines Mr Goffart 'completely forgot' about the fine he got after parking near the Tesco Express in Malpas Road, Newport, in 2018 The judge sided with Mr Goffart, although he did not win the full amount, and ordered New Generation Parking Management to pay 200 in costs following the hearing on Friday, September 5. His lawyer, solicitor Susan Prior, labelled the parking firm's conduct as 'unreasonable'. When Mr Goffart opened the letter from DCB Legal he said he 'couldn't believe it'. 'I'd completely forgotten about it,' he said. 'I actually wrote to New Generation immediately after receiving the fine in 2018 asking for further evidence and never received that evidence. At the time they'd sent me a fine for 100 saying I'd parked on double yellow lines, but I didn't think I had.' Such was his disbelief, and the letter not using his correct first name, he thought it might be a scam. Mr Goffart said he's 'very pleased' with the outcome of his case after the judge ruled the company had pursued him with no evidence of a parking infringement. He added: 'The judge said that based on a lack of evidence the company shouldn't have pursued me. Mr Goffart asked the parking firm but heard nothing back until the new fine landed on his doorstep this year. He sued the firm and won 200 in costs 'I'm grateful for the 200 for the costs of the time I had to spend on the case. Overall I'm happy, even though I didn't win all that I'd asked for. The judge awarded me 200 indicating my case was valid for compensation and the judge felt there was a discrepancy not only with their evidence but also due process.' He added that he wants to share his story to help others. 'I am told many of these cases also include lack of evidence and a lack of due process. 'My lawyer has been able to overturn 90 per cent of these cases. Too many people just accept these fines. At the end of the day it was a bogus parking fine that wouldn't stand up in court.' MailOnline has contacted New Generation Parking Management for comment. The moment Private Travis King touched back down on American soil after being held in North Korea for two months has been released. King, 23, made a brazen run for North Korean soil back in July when he broke away from a tour group that was viewing the demilitarized area between the rogue state and the South. Since then, the Wisconsin-native had not been heard from. In the clip, King appeared to calmly walk off a plane in San Antonio, Texas. He landed around 1:30am local time. Dressed in what seemed to be civilian clothes, he spoke briefly with people waiting on the tarmac, one wearing military fatigues and one in street clothes. A nearby photographer snapped pictures of the conversation. King shook hands with one before being led into a building without the apparent presence of an armed guard. His release was secured with the help of ally Sweden and rival China, the White House said Wednesday. North Korea had abruptly announced that it would expel King. King walks off the jet after arriving in San Antonio, Texas, at around 1.30am local time The new video shows Travis King, 23, casually conversing with officials before being led away King appears calm, wearing casual clothes, and being photographed during the clip King was flown to a U.S. military base in South Korea before being returned to the U.S. It was not clear why the North which has tense relations with Washington over the Pyongyangs nuclear program, support for Russias war in Ukraine and other issues agreed to turn him over or why the soldier had fled in the first place. King, who had served in South Korea, ran into North Korea while on a civilian tour of a border village on July 18, becoming the first American confirmed to be detained in the North in nearly five years. At the time, King was supposed to be heading to Fort Bliss, Texas, following his release from prison in South Korea on an assault conviction. His release almost certainly does not end his troubles. He has been declared AWOL from the Army, a status that can be punished by detention in military jail, forfeiture of pay or a dishonorable discharge. In many cases, someone who is AWOL for more than a month can automatically be considered a deserter. Punishment depends in part on whether the service member voluntarily returned or was apprehended. Kings handover by the North Koreans makes that more complicated. On Wednesday, Swedish officials took King to the Chinese border, where he was met by the U.S. Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns, the Swedish ambassador to China, and at least one U.S. Defense Department official. Biden administration officials insisted they provided no concessions to North Korea to secure the soldiers release. King was flown to an American military base in South Korea before being returned to the U.S. US Army Private 2nd Class Travis King, circled, is pictured during the tour moments before his dash across the border into North Korea. His hat was purchased from a gift shop at the demilitarized zone Earlier, North Korea announced without warning that it would expel King, surprising observers who had expected the rogue state to drag out his detention Earlier, North Korea announced without warning that it would expel King, surprising observers who had expected the rogue state to drag out his detention in the hopes of squeezing concessions from Washington. The North Korean state news agency KCNA reported early Wednesday that King was being removed from the country because of his 'illegal entry' in July when he broke free from a tour group viewing the DMZ and made a dash to the communist country. King, 23, had been recently released from a South Korean prison after an assault conviction in that country, and been due to return to Texas, where he faced a dishonorable discharge. According to KCNA, North Korean officials said they had concluded their 'questioning' of King and said he sought refuge in North Korea because he harbored 'ill feeling against inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination' in the US military. There was no way to immediately confirm North Korea's account of King's remarks. A 300-year-old tree which famously featured in Robin Hood has been felled overnight in a 'malicious act of vandalism'. The Sycamore Gap, along Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland, is one of the UK's most photographed trees and featured in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves starring Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman. But it was found chopped down this morning, with its upper section lying across the historic Roman barrier. Walkers noticed how part of the tree appeared to have been marked with white paint, indicating someone may have felled it with a chainsaw. It has sparked claims that the tree was vandalised by a 'professional' and the park authority believes it was deliberately chopped down. Northumberland National Park Authority believes the tree was deliberately chopped down Northumbria Police officers arrive at the scene of the Sycamore Gap tree to investigate today Walkers stop to look at the tree next to Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland today Officers have urged people not to visit the scene as they investigate The tree's severed upper section lies across the historic Roman barrier The iconic tree, which is believed to be 300 years old, was this morning found cut down Part of the tree appears to have been marked with white paint, indicating that someone may have felled it with a chainsaw The Sycamore Gap featured in the 1991 blockbuster Robin Hood Prince of Thieves (pictured) starring Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman People have been discouraged from visiting the spot while the hunt continues and a police investigation takes place. Alison Hawkins, who lives in Liverpool, was one of the first people on the scene this morning, posting a picture on Facebook with the caption: 'An awful moment for all walking Hadrian's Wall. The Sycamore Gap tree has gone! Not the storm an absolute ******* felled it!!' The tree that stars couldn't keep away from - and narrowly avoided being damaged in helicopter crash that could have killed Alan Titchmarsh In 2003, the tree escaped damage when a helicopter that was filming documentary series British Isles - A Natural History crashed less than 100 feet away Known to some as the Robin Hood Tree after its appearance in Kevin Costner's 1991 film, Sycamore Gap is one of the most photographed trees in the country. It stands next to Hadrian's Wall near Crag Lough in Northumberland and is believed to have been planted in the early 18th century. It is said to have once stood alongside others but eventually became the only one left - making it especially photogenic. In Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, the hero - played by Costner - is seen pulling leaves from the tree as he walks under it with the warrior Azeem, who is played by Morgan Freeman. The tree also featured in the music video for American star Bryan Adams' hit (Everything I Do) I Do It for You, which was the soundtrack for Costner's Robin Hood film. In 2003, the tree escaped damage when a helicopter that was filming documentary series British Isles - A Natural History crashed less than 100 feet away. The four onboard the aircraft were injured, but presenter Alan Titchmarsh, who was standing on the ground, narrowly escaped harm. Titchmarsh said at the time: 'I was pretty shaken and I was worried the copter was going to explode. The crew scrambled out and ran like hell.' An eyewitness added: 'Alan Titchmarsh was very lucky not to be hit. 'He was almost underneath the helicopter when it fell but jumped out of the way as it came down. 'The aircraft landed on its side and everyone, including Alan, ran to help. Everyone was amazed the crew were not seriously hurt.' Advertisement Ms Hawkins, who was on her fourth day of walking Hadrian's Wall, said she was 'tearful' when she discovered the tree had been cut down. She said: 'At first we thought it was because of the storm but then we saw a national park ranger. 'He said it had been cut down and there was paint around the cut section, so it was a professional who knew where they were going to cut. 'It was a proper shock. It's basically the iconic picture that everyone wants to see. You can forgive nature doing it but you can't forgive that.' A Northumberland National Park Authority spokesman said: 'Northumberland National Park Authority can confirm that sadly, the famous tree at Sycamore Gap has come down over night. We have reason to believe it has been deliberately felled. 'We are working with the relevant agencies and partners with an interest in this iconic North East landmark and will issue more details once they are known.' They added: 'It is not clear currently whether the tree is a victim of Storm Agnes or it is a deliberate act - though pictures indicate a clean and straight cut.' Matt Brown, 37, of the Twice Brewed Brew Company nearby, was one of the first at the scene. Mr Brown said: 'I was brewing when I heard a rumour that the tree at Sycamore Gap had been cut down and ran over to see what had happened. 'It was a quite a shock to see it lying there, that tree is a real icon and to those of us who were born in this area it really means something. 'It was certainly cut down with a chainsaw - and a big one. It looks as though it has been cut through with one stroke which means the blade must have been about two metres long. 'It was done overnight and seems to be a thought-out and planned act. But why anyone would choose to do such a thing is beyond me. 'There can't be anyone with such an issue against that particular tree that they walk a mile at night to go and saw it down, it's an act of malice but can only be for malice's sake. 'The tree can be seen from the old military road that passes by but to access it you have to climb over barbed wire and walk through marshy ground for a mile. 'I noticed also that the trunk had been marked at the spot where the cut was going to be made. 'This is someone who knows how to fell trees and made sure it toppled in the right direction, but it's hard to fathom why anyone would do this. 'I was speaking to a Canadian lady only yesterday who had come to this spot specifically to see the Sycamore Gap tree. It is an icon and something particularly special to the brewery. 'Our signature ale is called Sycamore Gap and the tree is our logo. It's genuinely hard to believe that this has happened. The Sycamore Gap tree is pictured today after being felled in Northumberland Police vehicles near the location of the tree at Sycamore Gap, next to Hadrian's Wall today People look at the tree at Sycamore Gap next to Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland today The Sycamore Gap was voted English Tree of the Year in 2016 Walkers and locals said it was 'unforgiveable' if the tree was deliberately vandalised A walker with a flower kneels to look at the felled tree A police investigation is taking place as the hunt for the possible vandal continues Some have suggested the tree was felled by a 'professional' The Sycamore Gap was voted English Tree of the Year in 2016 in the Woodland Trust's awards and is much-loved by people from across the world. The mayor for North Tyne and Metro, Jamie Driscoll, visited the devastation and said: 'This tree is iconic. You can see love stones on the floor where people in the past have proposed to their partners. 'Other people have had their ashes scattered here. This is part of our culture. I have family in North America and when they come across we take them here. 'This is not a tree cut down. This is an insult to the people of Northumberland. If you look at the damage, you realise it is someone with a 28-inch chainsaw who knew what they're doing. 'I've had lots of messages from people who are upset about it. I'm normally a measured man but I'm very angry about this. 'I've heard people are in tears. It's a really special place to the people from the surrounding area.' Mr Driscoll is now hoping the culprit will hand themselves in to the police. 'It's a really healthy tree and someone knows who did this,' he added. 'If they have any decency at all they should contact the police. 'Hadrian's Wall has been here for coming up to 2,000 years so we will work together with the authorities to come up with something that is fitting.' Photographer Sophie Parkinson said she had to visit the site to see it with her own eyes. The 31-year-old said: 'This tree has been such a huge part of my livelihood so I had to come down and have a look for myself. When I heard about it this morning I thought it was a hoax. 'It's absolutely devastating and it makes you wonder why someone would do this. The tree was such an iconic part of the North East. I've spent most of the morning in tears. 'It's not just a tree. It held such a special place for the people around here. I have photographed it in every season and I was here only a fortnight ago to capture the Northern Lights. 'It clearly doesn't look like it's been blown over in the wind. Someone must know some sort of information that could help the police. I think it was definitely planned. 'They must have come along overnight when the forecast was so bad when no one was here.' Chris Dunphy had always planned to visit the site and had no idea of the news when he finally made the trip today. The 41-year-old, from Kendal, Cumbria, said: 'I walked past it and I saw all of the police cars and knew something was up. But when I actually saw it I had to sit down and take it all in. 'This isn't just kids setting a camp fire and causing issues. This is a proper professional job. It's really sad for the people of Northumberland and Cumbria, but also tourists visiting. 'You don't think suddenly, "I'm going to cut down an iconic tree today". So it must have been pre-planned. It looks like something off Vera when you see all the police cars on the hill.' Barbara Perry, 75, was on a walking trip with her husband and in-laws when she passed the now crime scene. The retired bank worker, from Harrogate, North Yorkshire, said: 'We have been here before but we wanted to come back. We nearly came yesterday but the weather wasn't so good so we came back today. 'But when I got here I couldn't believe it. I find it all very sad. I think someone has come in a big car perhaps and done it overnight, but even I can't see any tyre tracks. 'People are in amazement about it. I can't understand why someone would do this. 'If someone were to smash a window or break into a cash machine you can at least understand why they do it. But with this I can't believe it. Someone has had to think about it and plan it. It's an absolute shame.' A Northumbria Police spokesman said today: 'A full investigation has been launched after the Sycamore Gap Tree was felled overnight in what officers believe to be a deliberate act of vandalism. 'A range of enquiries are now ongoing, with the support of partners, as police look to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the damage and identify those involved. This morning the iconic tree, which is believed to be a few hundred years old, was discovered lying next to the Roman Wall The Sycamore Gap, cut down last night, is pictured here in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves with Kevin Costner Costner, who plays the protagonist, and Freeman, who plays warrior Azeem, visit the tree in the 1991 blockbuster Jamie Driscoll, the mayor for North Tyne and Metro, said the damage was 'an insult to the people of Northumberland' 'The tree is a world-renowned landmark and the vandalism has caused understandable shock and anger throughout the local community and beyond.' Superintendent Kevin Waring added: 'This is an incredibly sad day. The tree was iconic to the North East and enjoyed by so many who live in or who have visited this region. 'As a Force, we are fully committed to finding out the full circumstances and we will consider every tactic at our disposal in this investigation. 'Anyone found to have been responsible for this damage which we believe to be a deliberate act of vandalism can expect to be dealt with swiftly and appropriately. 'I would ask anyone who saw anything suspicious or knows anything that can assist our investigation to get in touch with us.' Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness also expressed her sadness, writing on X: 'I'm devastated that the famous Sycamore is gone. I am incandescent that this looks like a deliberate act of vandalism. 'That tree was ours. An iconic North East landmark. @northumbriapol are at the scene and I'll be raising this personally today.' On land owned by the National Trust, it is also known as the Robin Hood Tree because it featured in a scene in the 1991 film Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves starring Kevin Costner. It appeared in the music video for Bryan Adams' Everything I Do, I Do It for You which featured on the film's soundtrack and topped the charts for several months. An undated picture of the tree at Sycamore Gap, at Hadrian's Wall near Crag Lough, Northumberland, with the Northern Lights The Sycamore Gap tree was a popular spot for photographers Farmer Katie Smith, 25, said she spotted the tree on its side as she passed it on her way to work this morning. She said: 'I drive past the tree twice a day and I always look up at it but today I just saw it was gone. 'Pictures taken of it look like someone has deliberately sawed it down. It's an absolute tragedy. No one can believe it has been cut down. 'There was a storm last night but it's withstood worse. There is no way this is not vandalism. People around here are shocked.' Andrew Benton, 45, added: 'I'm outraged that someone has done this to such a beautiful tree. What the hell is the world coming to?' Landscape and nature author Robert Macfarlane said: 'I just feel sick. 'I feel desperately sad about what it says about our wider relationship with trees and with nature in this country. And I feel very angry.' He told BBC Radio 5 Live: 'Just so many memories were stored in that tree and to see that white wood that a chainsaw ripped through at some point last night. I just despair really about the state of nature in this country.' Jack Taylor, from Woodland Trust, told the programme: 'If it's been deliberately felled, as reports suggest, it's totally unforgiveable. 'And, I'm really struggling to think of a reason why anybody would do that. Honestly, it would have to be a disturbed individual to do something that deliberate and heinous.' Mr Taylor said: 'We're completely devastated that this has happened.' People on social media have expressed their upset and anger at the felling. One person wrote: 'I'm almost lost for words this morning on hearing that the beautiful sycamore tree at Sycamore Gap on Hadrian's Wall has been deliberately felled overnight. The stunning tree is on Hadrian's wall world heritage site and attracts many tourists The Sycamore Gap tree is one of the most photographed in the country. Overnight it was chopped down, with many people devastated Sycamore Gap on Hadrian's Wall, Northumberland, was made famous in the 1991 blockbuster film 'Robin Hood Prince of Thieves' starring Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness also expressed her sadness, writing on X: 'I'm devastated that the famous Sycamore is gone' An account called North East Tweets said: ' Those who cut down the Sycamore Gap tree, have committed an act of great cruelty' 'What an absolutely disgusting act of mindless vandalism.' Another said: 'Somebody has taken a chainsaw to the one of our nation's most beautiful sights. The Sycamore Gap tree on Hadrian's Wall Path - Northumberland. 'It was also the star of Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. Utterly appalling, police are investigating.' An account called North East Tweets said: 'Those who cut down the Sycamore Gap tree, have committed an act of great cruelty. 'They have shown no regard for nature's grace, and left a scar upon this sacred place. 'Let those who cut down the sycamore tree, beware the wrath of nature, wild and free. For their evil deed will not be forgotten.' ** Is the tree special to you? Email: eirian.prosser@mailonline.co.uk ** GB News should be 'taken off air' after the Laurence Fox row, a Conservative MP has said as she urged Ofcom to carry out a 'swift' investigation into his vulgar remarks. The media regulator has launched a probe into the broadcaster after the political activist made highly offensive comments about female journalist Ava Evans on air. The sexual remarks made by Fox have sparked anger across the political divide, with the broadcaster suspending him as well as Dan Wootton, the presenter of the show. Caroline Nokes, the Commons Women and Equalities Committee chair, said there was a 'really serious case to answer' and insisted GB News should be 'taken off air'. She also condemned a number of her Conservative colleagues for 'swanning off' to host shows on GB News, saying it was 'very odd' for MPs such as Lee Anderson and Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg to have presenting gigs while they have a 'day job to do'. Ms Nokes was highly critical of GB News for what she called 'blatantly misogynistic, outdated, hideous attitudes'. On Tuesday's show, Fox attacked Joe reporter Ms Evans by saying 'Who would want to sh*g that?' as he elicited laughs from Wootton. Caroline Nokes, the Commons Women and Equalities Committee chair, told the BBC's Newsnight that there is a 'really serious case to answer' following the Laurence Fox comments Laurence Fox (right) spoke about Ava Evans during Dan Wootton (left) Tonight on Tuesday Ava Evans, political correspondent for news website Joe, on ITV's Good Morning Britain today Ofcom confirmed it had received complaints and was assessing them against its broadcast rules, adding that it would 'publish the outcome as quickly as possible'. GB News must not be cancelled over Laurence Fox row, says host Mark Dolan Mark Dolan on GB News last night GB News has learned a 'hard lesson' after 'offensive' comments were made on-air by Laurence Fox - but the channel must not be cancelled, a presenter has said. Covering the 9pm slot on GB News yesterday evening, Mark Dolan condemned Fox's 'offensive comments' about Ms Evans. He said: 'Whether Laurence should stay on air is not my decision and Dan's absence tonight is also beyond my control. There is an investigation ongoing, but the comments made by Laurence in my view were sexist, misogynistic and, unusually, in the frenzied climate of the so-called culture wars, have been condemned across the political spectrum from left and right.' But he went on to warn that GB News must not be cancelled in the wake of Fox's comments. 'Where possible, we seek to play the ball, not the man, or in this case, the woman,' Dolan said. 'We don't always achieve that. Unfortunately, this awful episode plays into the hands of our critics, the people who would love to see the back of GB News. That mustn't happen.' The presenter said the channel is 'rewriting the rulebook' on current affairs broadcasting and garnering a 'fast growing and incredibly loyal audience'. 'Whilst we're here for the many people in this country, who feel they do not have a voice, the truth is, we're here for everyone,' he continued. 'People are coming to us in their numbers across all political colours, because they want a different angle, a different approach and they want debate. They want a diversity of opinion and they want it done with wit and wisdom. 'Fiery and good humoured, but respectful and fair too, that is the GB News way. We didn't have that last night. In the end, a hard lesson has been learned. We have freedom of speech, but not freedom from the fallout.' Advertisement Speaking to BBC Newsnight, Ms Nokes urged Ofcom to investigate. She said: 'I was appalled by a news channel broadcasting such blatantly misogynistic, outdated, hideous attitudes. 'I think there is a really serious case to answer and I hope that Ofcom can conclude its investigations as swiftly as possible. I think it should be taken off air, it was entirely predictable that Laurence Fox was going to come out with a statement that was that offensive.' But she was also critical of her colleagues who have their own lucrative gigs presenting on GB News. 'I think it's a very odd relationship to be quite frank and I don't go on any of their shows,' she said. 'From my perspective if you're a Member of Parliament you have a day job to do, getting on with the work you have in the House of Commons and not swanning off, and in some cases several times a week, to present a show on a television channel.' Mr Anderson, the deputy Tory party chair, former Cabinet minister Sir Jacob are joined by Philip Davies and Esther McVey as Tory MPs presenting on GB News. Ofcom has previously found that an interview married presenters Ms McVey and Mr Davies did with Chancellor Jeremy Hunt on GB News breached impartiality rules. Sir Jacob's show is also under investigation for allegedly twice breaching the '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'. Also hitting out at GB News was former prime minister Gordon Brown, who said Fox and Wootton 'have got to be kept off air'. He said Ofcom should be given more 'teeth' and compared the incident to when Jonathan Ross and Russell Brand prank called Andrew Sachs about Brand's relationship with Sachs' granddaughter Georgina Baillie on BBC Radio 2 in October 2008. Mr Brown told the Sky News Politics Hub with Sophy Ridge: 'Well, I criticised Russell Brand and Jonathan Ross when similar remarks were made almost 15 years ago, and it led to changes in the way programmes were done at that time. 'But I think we've got to look very carefully at GB News and all these broadcast companies that are emerging, because we've got a far wider range of broadcasters and the system of regulation is not good enough to cope with it. 'So Ofcom needs to have more teeth to deal with standards, issues of standards, and of course you've got this amazing situation now, you've got internet, you've got television, you've got newspapers and you have a completely different system of regulation for each of them.' 'But everybody is influenced by all these social media at the same time, so I think you've got to standardise some of the regulation, and certainly you cannot allow people to appear on air and talk about women in the way that they are doing, without any propriety. Ava Evans tweeted a picture of her drinking a pint at the Bethnal Green Tavern in East London yesterday evening with the caption: 'Me reading your libellous tweets' It comes after Ava Evans made comments about men's mental health and suicide on the BBC's Politics Live on Monday, in which she dismissed calls for a dedicated minister on the issue 'These people have got to be kept off the air - this cannot be allowed. I'm not in favour of censorship, but you cannot have this fall in standards and allow it to continue.' Laurence Fox: From screen actor to founder of the Reclaim Party Actor Laurence Fox rose to fame through various acting roles and is most well-known for portraying DS James Hathaway in the long-running TV series Lewis, which came to an end in 2015. The actor, 45, has credits in films that include the 2001 production of Gosford Park, the 2007 TV movie A Room With A View and the recent 2022 film My Son Hunter, in which he plays the lead role of Hunter, the son of American president Joe Biden. Born into an acting dynasty, Fox is related to a slew of famous thespians, including his cousin Freddie Fox, who starred in the 2011 film The Three Musketeers and Netflix series The Crown, playing former prime minister Margaret Thatcher's son Mark. Laurence Fox married fellow thespian Billie Piper in 2007 and the pair split in 2016 Sister to Freddie and cousin to Laurence is Emilia Fox, known for her role as Dr Nikki Alexander in BBC TV series Silent Witness. The trio are grandchildren to actor and theatrical agent Robin Fox whose son James is father to Laurence and has starred in Downton Abbey, Sherlock Holmes, Midsomer Murders and New Tricks, among other TV series. Fox married fellow thespian and Doctor Who star Billie Piper in 2007 and the pair split in 2016. They have two sons together, Winston and Eugene. In 2020, Fox appeared on BBC Question Time and was involved in a debate over Meghan Markle, white male privilege and racism which led to the actor saying he would take a break from social media. Following his appearance, the actor founded political party the Reclaim Party in October 2020, and the website says he did so after his appearance led to him being 'cancelled' from his acting career. After he set up the Reclaim Party, Fox unsuccessfully stood for London mayor during the mayoral election of 2021. Fox appeared on BBC Question Time in 2020 and was in a debate over Meghan Markle, white male privilege and racism His manifesto included promises to deliver 'free travel on the Tubes and buses for six months' and 'tough New York style community policing to target petty crime'. According to the Reclaim Party website, the party exists 'for patriotism and believes hard work should be rewarded.' Reclaim is strongly associated with the 'culture wars' and Fox has previously expressed scepticism about the Covid vaccine and opposed lockdowns during the pandemic. Fox has been a presenter on GB News and according to the broadcaster's website he 'tackles the issues of the day' with a 'unique and outgoing style'. Advertisement Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan said Ofcom had to take its response to the 'next stage', and said both Fox and Wootton behaved in an 'unacceptable and disgraceful way' as she called on the regulator to act. 'Ofcom really do need to look at this. I was quite shocked and taken aback by the level of the comments made and the response of Dan on that show,' she told the Sky News Politics Hub. 'It was completely unacceptable. 'I'm glad that GB News took decisive action and suspended both of them quickly today, but there needs to be the next stage now and Ofcom really needs to be looking at this.' But the Tory MP said she would not 'boycott' the broadcaster, arguing it was is an 'isolated incident' and not 'a symptom of a broader problem at all'. She said GB News needs to learn 'big lessons' such as 'why was this ever viewed as acceptable in modern Britain', and investigate whether the conversation had been 'pre-agreed'. Ms Evans said she had received an apology from the broadcaster, but her direct messages on social media have been full of threats since the row. Wootton has apologised 'unreservedly' for a 'very unfortunate lapse in judgment' in a follow-up post to an earlier apology, which suggested he should have apologised for what was said during the broadcast. Ms Evans was interviewed about the incident on ITV's Good Morning Britain today, and also spoke about other Tory MPs appearing on GB News. She said: 'I think what's important is a lot of presenters and producers at the channel spoke publicly yesterday about how they don't align themselves with those views,' she said. 'But I didn't hear that from any elected members of parliament that sit on that channel. 'So if you're not going to say anything, and you're going to continue broadcasting on it, it's almost as if you've accepted it, or you're claiming to align with those views. 'You're saying that it's perfectly reasonable for someone to profess what Laurence Fox did that night.' Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer branded Fox's comments 'inappropriate and unacceptable' while Tory backbencher Mr Davies, who co-presents a show on the channel, said the 'disgraceful' remarks were 'completely unacceptable, unjustifiable and indefensible'. Labour shadow culture secretary Thangam Debbonaire wrote on X, formerly Twitter: 'Last night's woman hating on air has hit a new low. Should we (women) have to tell a broadcaster that on-air woman-hate is not OK?' And fellow Labour frontbencher Matthew Pennycook said: 'Ofcom must act to end this kind of odious behaviour whenever and wherever it takes place.' Labour MP Jess Phillips said on X: 'Ofcom must act, an act of bullying and hate. Regulators have got to actually try to stop this, but in my experience women are just expected to tolerate it with a shrug. The electoral commission, ofcom and others can no longer turn a blind eye.' And Labour MP Dawn Butler added: '@Ofcom it was a premeditated misogynistic attack on @AvaSantina. 'This isn't a new tactic, but we don't always have the evidence. There's no excuse not to act on this toxic, racist, misogynistic channel which isn't a news channel.' Labour MP Ellie Reeves was asked on Times Radio today whether she would appear on GB News - and she said that while she has done so in the past, in future she would 'have to see how [this issue] is dealt with'. Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf branded Fox a 'vile neanderthal'. Today a spokesperson for dmg media said: 'Following events this week, dmg media can confirm that Dan Woottons freelance column with MailOnline - which had already been paused - has now been terminated, along with his contract.' A devastated bride and groom have demanded answers from a lavish wedding venue after almost 50 of their guests were struck down with severe vomiting and diarrhea. Rebecca and Brodey Fitzgerald held their $20,000 wedding reception at The Park venue in Albert Park, in Melbourne's inner south, on Friday. But in the hours following their big day guests - including two pregnant women who were eventually hospitalised - fell ill with severe gastro. Shockingly, it's the fifth such incident to happen at The Park venue in the last month, with around 230 guests of various different functions affected. Rebecca and Brodey Fitzgerald (pictured) held their $20,000 wedding reception at The Park venue in Albert Park, in Melbourne 's inner south, on Friday. But in the hours following their big day around 50 of their guests - including two pregnant women who were eventually hospitalised - fell ill with severe gastro 'We just want some form of answer about how this happened,' Mrs Fitzgerald told A Current Affair. 'We have spent so much money trying to have the best day that we possible could and now I just feel that everyone's memory of our wedding is just going to be a negative one.' In the days before their wedding, the newlyweds were reassured by management at The Park that they had been given a the go-ahead from the council and the health department to stay open. Mr and Mrs Fitzgerald now deeply regret they 'trusted the professionals'. Around 80 attendees at a medical conference dinner held at The Park on 13 September reported falling ill, while a wedding held three days later was ruined after another 80 guests were struck down with gastro-like symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea and dizziness. Mr Fitzgerald fell ill himself, spending the day after the wedding in bed at a luxury hotel the couple had booked to continue the celebrations (the couple are pictured) The newlyweds (pictured) are demanding answers from The Park venue The venue underwent cleaning and was given a clean bill of health by the department of health and Portland City Council allowing the Fitzgerald's to go ahead with their wedding. 'We got a call from the venue three days before the wedding and they just explained that we'd be seeing it on the news and not to worry about it,' Mrs Fitzgerald said. 'The venue had been deep cleaned and they reassured me that it was all fine to go ahead - they got a tick of approval from the council and none of our guests would be impacted at all.' When Mr and Mrs Fitzgerald informed the venue they were told 'perhaps it might have been a contact-to-contact gastro bug that one of the guests brought in' which infuriated them. 'It puts all the good memories you had of the wedding in the back of your head because you are trying to focus on making sure your guests are okay,' Mr Fitzgerald said. The couple had treated themselves to an expensive hotel room in the city the day after the wedding when the groom himself fell violently ill. 'I was so upset that I couldn't spent what was meant to be a magical weekend with my partner - now wife - and all I'm doing is laying under the covers in bed and having Bec wondering around the city by herself - trying to enjoy it by herself,' Mr Fitzgerald said. 'How do you do that?' Shockingly, the illnesses reported from the Fitzgerald's wedding is the fifth such incident to happen at The Park venue (pictured) in the last month, with around 230 guests of different functions affected The venue has voluntarily closed its doors for two weeks after the latest outbreaks The day after the Fitzgerald's wedding, another outbreak reportedly struck down 40 guests at a different wedding. The Park announced on Tuesday it had voluntarily closed its doors for two weeks. But the Fitzgerald's believe it is 'a little too late'. 'Although, it is a good thing because I would hate any other bride or someone going through a big event having to go through what we have gone through,' Mrs Fitzgerald added. The Park has reportedly offered to refund all the events. 'We have the highest standard of health and safety practices in place and we are deeply saddened that this outbreak has occurred and affected a number of people,' The Park said in a statement. Bahaa Harb, venue manager for The Park, said on Tuesday it made the voluntary decision to close out of 'an abundance of caution'. 'We had taken all precautionary health and safety measures ahead of recent events, however, as there have been reported illnesses from an event on the weekend, we have decided to temporarily stop operating functions for the next two weeks until we have further information,' Mr Harb told Nine Newspapers. 'It is possible that these outbreaks are not linked, but we have decided to close out of an abundance of caution until we have further information.' Daily Mail Australia approached the venue for further comment on the new outbreaks. The distraught wife of British zoologist Adam Britton who filmed himself raping, torturing and murdering dogs has dumped him and fled the country, MailOnline has learned. Erin Britton has dropped her husband's surname and is believed to have gone on a six-month safari, away from public places where she fears she might be tainted by her 52-year-old husband's debauched, private life. National Geographic's website suggests she will be on an international wildlife expedition but it appears she will be travelling under a new name. A tradesman who did some work on the couple's exotic property told MailOnline: 'Will she be back? That's very doubtful. She's ended the marriage and gone, although given the shocking behaviour of her husband she will be living in fear of being recognised wherever she ends up living.' Amy Moore, a hotel worker in the small town of Humpty Doo, just a few miles from the Britton couple's property, said she felt sorry for Erin, who had been unaware of her husband's sadistic secret life in which he tortured, raped and killed dogs. 'It seems she's just up and left him - and can you blame her when you learn about all the terrible things he's confessed to at an earlier court appearance.' The distraught wife of British zoologist Adam Britton (pictured together) who filmed himself raping, torturing and murdering dogs has dumped him and fled the country, MailOnline has learned Adam Britton (centre) with his wife Erin (left) and David Attenborough (right) during filming for a BBC documentary Cold Blood From Erin's side, there are happy memories of feeding wildlife - mostly crocodiles - on the property where David Attenborough was once a guest to film sequences for the BBC Bafta-winning series Life in Cold Blood. In the remote communities that make up Australia's sweltering Northern Territory tough outback men and women shook their heads in disgust yesterday as the name of Adam Britton dominated all conversation. What local people agreed on was that there was general agreement the zoologist with expertise in crocodiles should never be allowed out of prison when he is sentenced in the weeks to come following his earlier plea of guilty to animal abuse. 'You'd have thought that being born and bred in this region we would have seen and heard everything' said self-confessed chatterbox Amy Moore who lives in Humpty Doo - which has a population of 4,313 and a mystery over the origins of its name. 'It's always been a bit of a fun place to live in or visit, but now we find ourselves living just a few miles from a place which has shocked the entire world.' She was referring to McMinns Lagoon where Britton lived with wife Erin, who helped him maintain the exotic property. 'This man - although I don't like to call him a man - is a real sicko Other local people said yesterday that they did not believe Erin was aware of her husband's debauched secret life in which he has admitted torturing and killing animals, sexually abusing them and discarding their bodies around the property. Britton not only tortured and sexually abused his own pets Ursa and Bolt (pictured together), who he created an Instagram page for, but also dogs from pet owners he had lured into his trap through the online marketplace platform Gumtree Australia Britton has told a Darwin court that he could not stop his urges and that he had wanted them to continue. 'The word around these parts is that when Erin learned what her husband had got up to she fled - just packed up and left,' said Ms Moore. 'She's gone far away, going on a safari somewhere, but how she's ever going to get over this can't be imagined. 'They kept themselves pretty much to themselves unless they were doing business with film companies or conservationists such as David Attenborough. No-one I've spoken to can recall seeing them out and about such as having a meal in one of the local taverns together.' 'We locals have loved living here - it's a real exotic iplace and now this person has travelled across the world from England a few years ago and tainted all our lives by doing what he did to those poor animals just down the road from us.' Star Wars superfan Rishi Sunak begged for a film cameo today during a round of radio interviews. The PM cheekily appealed for a role flying an X-Wing and 'taking down the Death Star' as he was quizzed on his love for the sci-fi classic. But Mr Sunak staunchly refused to say whether he viewed himself as Luke Skywalker, Han Solo or Darth Vader - insisting he would leave others to decide. The premier's obsession with Star Wars is well-known in Westminster, and he is said to revel in a sizeable collection of Lightsabers. There have even been claims that Mr Sunak - who visited the Star Wars area in Disneyland on a trip to California this summer - draws on the movies for his political philosophy. As Treasury chief secretary in 2019, Mr Sunak tweeted a photo of himself and his then boss, 'Jedi Master' Sajid Javid at a screening of The Rise of Skywalker. Rishi Sunak's obsession with Star Wars is well-known in Westminster, and he is said to revel in a sizeable collection of Lightsabers (pictured viewing a model of an ATAT earlier this year) As Treasury chief secretary in 2019, Mr Sunak tweeted a photo of himself and his then boss, 'Jedi Master' Sajid Javid at a screening of The Rise of Skywalker In an interview with BBC Three Counties Radio, the PM was asked if he was more Skywalker, Han Solo or Darth Vader. Presenter Babs Michel said: 'You are a massive Star Wars fan and we've had some of the sequels filmed here in the Three Counties.' Mr Sunak declined to say which character he was most like, saying, 'I'll leave others to come to their own conclusions.' He added: 'Who wouldn't love to go on the Millennium Falcon and have that be your ship so I would love to be able to do that. 'But then again also piloting an X-wing has been probably one of my life's bucket list things I would want to do so actually if you could have a chat with the people who film the movies there. 'If they could get me a cameo in an X-wing and I would get to say ''Red Seven standing by before we take down the Death Star'' that would make me a very happy man, so that was always my childhood dream.' Sir Ian McKellen has blasted the 'ludicrous' use 'trigger warning' signs on his own play as he hit out at modern theatres mollycoddling audiences. The 84-year-old actor, who is starring alongside Roger Allam in Frank and Percy at The Other Palace, London, ridiculed the signs and said he 'prefers to be surprised'. His latest play follows the relationship of two retired men who meet on Hampstead Heath. A warning has been placed on the theatre's website saying the show contains strong language, sexual references and discussions of bereavement and cancer. Speaking to Sky News about the play, Sir Ian said: 'Outside theatres and in the lobbies, including this one, the audience is warned "there is a loud noise and at one point, there are flashing lights", "there is reference to smoking", "there is reference to bereavement".' He added: 'I think it's ludicrous, myself, yes, absolutely. I quite like to be surprised by loud noises and outrageous behaviour on stage.' Sir Ian McKellen (left) who is starring alongside Roger Allam (right) in Frank and Percy at The Other Palace, London , ridiculed the signs and said he 'prefers to be surprised'. A warning has been placed on the theatre's website saying the show contains strong language, sexual references and discussions of bereavement and cancer Sir Ian has blasted the 'ludicrous' use 'trigger warning' signs on his own play as he hit out at modern theatres mollycoddling audiences It's not the first time the X-Men and Lord of The Rings star has slammed aspects of contemporary theatre production. In February the legendary actor blasted the 'irrelevant' jobs such as intimacy coordinators for ruining the 'purity' of modern theatre. He told Simon Armitage on The Poet Laureate Has Gone To His Shed podcast, theatre has seen many changes and 'not always for the better'. READ MORE: Is this a case of crazy wokery I see before me? Actors ridicule university trigger warnings over blood in Macbeth Advertisement 'The latest is the intimacy co-ordinator. This isn't yet mandatory, but I can imagine there are situations when you have to be careful and people find it difficult to be intimate, and therefore a co-ordinator is just the thing', he said. 'But why can't it be the director who does that? Why has it got to be somebody who's been trained in how to do it?' He added: 'I can imagine situations where people find it difficult to be intimate but why can't the director do that? The purity of as few people as possible getting in the way is good.' Sir Ian's has previously spoken out against trigger warnings including when they have been placed on works of fiction at university libraries. In June, the Daily Mail revealed how Queen's University Belfast had issued a warning to undergraduates studying a module called Further Adventures in Shakespeare on its BA English course. 'You are advised that this play could cause offence as it references and / or deals with issues and depictions relating to bloodshed,' the university said. Patrick Stewart and Kate Fleetwood (pictured) in Macbeth McKellen said many of the changes to theatre have not always been 'for the better' The university has also applied similar warnings to the Bard's Richard III, Twelfth Night and Titus Andronicus. It prompted some Britain's biggest theatrical stars to brand the warnings counterproductive and unnecessary. They point out that Macbeth, which was first performed in 1606, is particularly popular with schoolchildren Sir Ian, who in 1976 starred opposite Dame Judi Dench in a production of Macbeth for the Royal Shakespeare Company, said: 'My sister [a teacher] used to show Sir Trevor Nunn's TV version of the 1976 Macbeth to her teenage students. 'She'd pull down the blinds, start the video and then leave the classroom and count the minutes till she heard the first scream from within. Had the youngsters had trigger warnings in advance, the effect of the play would have been considerably diminished.' He added: 'I remember talking to a priest who saw a number of performances of the stage production at the Stratford Other Place. He would hold out his crucifix throughout the performance, to protect the audience from the devilry conjured by the cast. I suppose these triggers are something similar.' Call The Midwife star Jenny Agutter, who has acted in Shakespeare's The Tempest, King Lear and Love's Labour's Lost, said: 'I don't understand why anyone should feel warnings are necessary for Shakespeare's plays. Unless we need to be constantly warned that depicting human nature might cause offence.' This is the moment Britain's bravest mother pushes her child's pram to safety - before she was mown down by a speeding drink driver and left for dead with a serious brain injury. Becky Sharp (right), 31, was crossing the road with daughter Lorena in her stroller in the Redhill area of Bournemouth when scaffolder Dale Clark (inset), 38, bounded along the road at 40mph in a 30mph zone in his Toyota RAV4 following a vodka binge. The footage, exclusively published by MailOnline, shows the car travelling along the outside lane on Redhill Avenue on April 11 this year shortly before 9am before swerving across to the inside lane at the last second as Ms Sharp crosses the road (left). She pushes the pram out of the way, and Lorena escaped without injury despite her pram overturning as it trundled to the edge of the road; but her mum spent eight weeks in a coma and has been in a rehabilitation unit in Poole since the crash. Clark drove off after the incident, leaving Mrs Sharp for dead - and with life-altering injuries including brain trauma and multiple fractures that have left her using a wheelchair and needing long-term medical care. BBC Springwatch presenter Chris Packham has warned the government environmentalists might take direct action against oil refineries after a decision to drill for new oil and gas in the North Sea. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been accused of rolling back on environmental protection by delaying a ban on petrol and diesel cars while also authorising new drilling in the North Sea. He described the decision as 'no less than an act of war against life on earth'. Earlier, writing on the microblogging social media site formerly known as Twitter, he said: 'Personally, I've no reached the point where I believe breaking the law for the climate is the ethically responsible thing to do.' BBC Springwatch presenter Chris Packham, pictured, led a demonstration outside the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs' London office this morning He was highlighting a report which claimed much of Britain's native wildlife was under threat He had previously caused controversy after he suggested radical environmentalists could destroy an oil terminal. Speaking to Kay Burley on Sky News outside Defra's London HQ, he described today's protest as 'peaceful' with 'no paint, powder or glue'. He warned he may be forced to take to the streets 'on several more occasions' ahead of the next election, unless 'committed government support' for the environment was enacted. Commenting on the recent U-turn in the Government's energy policy, he said: 'Agreeing to drill at Rosebank is a catastrophic decision. It is abject madness, described as such by the Government's own Climate Change Committee, by the IPCC and the head of the United Nations, who described it as "economic and moral madness". 'We need to keep fossil fuels in the ground and we need to implement a transition to renewals as quickly as possible. When they talk about energy security from that, essentially they are not telling the truth. That oil will largely belong to Norway and will be sold to the free market. 'It won't even be refined in the UK. They keep on about jobs in the oil industry - that's bad old business - we need good new business which is in renewables, that's where we need our investment and we have that capability to do that in the UK. 'There are no jobs on a dead planet. 'These short-term political play games are terrible. Labour need to step up here. Saying that they will honour these licences is not the way to get our vote, there is no doubt about that. They need more robust policies themselves when dealing with climate break down and that's starts by leaving fossil fuels in the ground.' More than 40 wildlife charities and climate activist organisations gathered outside the Government's environment department demanding ministers take stronger action to restore nature. It follows a landmark report showing 16 per cent of the UK's wildlife species are at risk of extinction, with numbers continuing to fall despite political pledges internationally and at home. Unsustainable farming and fishing as well as climate change were identified as being the main causes of the loss of wildlife, with habitats from woodland to peatlands and the sea floor having been significantly degraded. Outside the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs building in Westminster, representatives of organisations including the Wildlife Trusts, WWF, the RSPB, Extinction Rebellion, Just Stop Oil and Green New Deal Rising blocked the road with large colourful banners and listened to speeches from scientists angered by the State of Nature report's findings. Packham, who organised the protest with two other people in nine days, said: 'When a report says that 16 per cent of your monitored species are in danger of extinction - one in six - you are in deep trouble. 'We have to act far more rapidly, and that's why I'm keen to motivate these charities to ask their membership to stand up and be counted to take more action than we have done. 'I'm afraid these days that means taking to the streets in a peaceful, democratic way as we have done this morning. No paint, no powder, no gluing ourselves. 'People have been motivated by love, deep rooted affinity and concern for nature. And they're running out of patience when it comes to nature's recovery.' The State of Nature report, led by the RSPB and supported by more than 60 conservation and research organisations, is the latest to chart the continued decline of British wildlife. The State of Nature report, led by the RSPB and supported by more than 60 conservation and research organisations, is the latest to chart the continued decline of British wildlife Its authors said the problems and solutions have never been better understood but what is missing is action on a large scale, citing examples of restorative work that have brought back life to degraded habitats but which need to be replicated and expanded. Richard Benwell, chief executive of the Wildlife and Countryside Link, said the report's findings contain 'heart-stoppingly horrible figures'. He said: 'We know that we've got to change the way we behave in every corner of society and every inch of the economy. 'That means in particular, change for farming to shift to regenerative models, change for developments to build nature into the way we plan our homes and infrastructure. and we need to change the way that corporates operate so that the polluter pays and invests in nature. 'Have we seen those things in the Environmental Improvement Plan? No. 'The Government has the answers on the page in front of it, now we're looking for political bravery before the election to see which one of the parties will put the cash put the regulation and do the enforcement.' Environment Secretary Therese Coffey said the Government has legally committed itself to protecting 30 per cent of the UK's natural environment by 2030. In response to the report, she said: 'The UK's nature is a crucial part of our islands. 'That is why we put in law the requirement to halt the decline in nature and protect the abundance of species, why we are committed to increasing the amount of habitat for nature to thrive, and why we were one of the first countries to pledge to protect 30 per cent of our land for nature by 2030. 'At the start of this year, I published our comprehensive Environmental Improvement Plan, setting out how we will create and restore at least 500,000 hectares of new wildlife habitats, starting with 70 new wildlife projects including 25 new or expanded National Nature Reserves.' Packham said Government agencies tasked with protecting nature such as Natural England and the Environment Agency have had their funding cut so much that they are incapable of doing their job sufficiently, and he is asking members of wildlife charities to take to the streets. Speaking of the group gathered behind him in Westminster, he said: 'I know that these people have the capacity to come together and do things that, historically, they're not very good at. 'But this is our time. So it doesn't matter whether you're into bats, bumblebees, butterflies, birds, bugs or badgers - ultimately, we need to come together.' Donald Trump went on the attack against his GOP nominee rivals in the wake of the second Republican primary debate, that the former president did not attend. At the debate, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie attempted to christen Trump 'Donald Duck,' an apparent joke about the ex-commander-in-chief's failure to attend debates. Trump brushed off that nickname in an interview with Fox Digital. 'Anybody that would come up with that nickname shouldn't be running for president,' he said. In the same interview, Trump stressed that he felt it was more important for him to appear at an event with striking auto workers in Detroit, than to show-up at the debate in California. Meanwhile, over on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump took aim at Governor Ron DeSantis, using the moniker: 'Ron DeSanctimonious' as he posted a video showing DeSantis affording Trump fawning praise as he introduced him at a rally in Sunrise, Florida, in November 2019. Former President Donald Trump was the night's winner, according to our DailyMail.com poll, even though he didn't attend the debate. Ron DeSantis was declared the most 'competent' Trump also brushed off former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie's attempts to nickname the former president 'Donald Duck' At the event, Trump was 'welcomed home to Florida' by the governor. DeSantis highlighted Trump's help in repairing military bases destroyed by a hurricane and other policies of the ill-fated administration. Edited out of the clip is the moment when Trump took the podium and said: 'I always thought Ron was a little bit heavy' but added that after seeing him topless he thought 'this guy is strong.' The New York Times noted in 2019 that Trump's campaign said the then-president meant that he saw DeSantis with his jacket off. At Wednesday's debate, DeSantis told the audience: 'He should be here on this stage tonight. He owes it to you to defend his record.' The Florida governor has been slow to attack Trump for most of the campaign. But as he's struggled to make inroads against the former president, he's started slowly sharpening his critiques of the man whose endorsement he once embraced. With his position in the race at risk of stalling, DeSantis faced pressure to have a standout and aggressive performance Wednesday. DeSantis seemed eager to jump in on a question after Trump was criticized by former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who has made hammering Trump a focus of his campaign. DeSantis began speaking at the same time as another candidate and when finally given the floor, he used his answer to hit President Joe Biden and Trump in the same swipe, accusing them of lacking leadership. DeSantis found an opportunity later in the debate to hit Trump on abortion, an area where he's recently stepped up his attacks from the right. DeSantis said Trump was wrong to blame the Republican Party's lackluster performance in the 2022 midterm elections on the overturning of national abortion rights. 'He should be here explaining his comments,' DeSantis said. 'I want him to look into the eyes and tell people who've been fighting this fight for a long time.' In his interview with Fox Digital in the wake of the debate, Trump stressed that his lead among the Republican field is such, his presence in Detroit was far more important. 'I thought it was much more important, considering I have a 56-point lead, for me to be dealing with the UAW and the fact that the Biden Administration is going to destroy their jobs over the next two years by going all electric vehicle,' he said. 'The crowd was incredibleunreal. I think we have great support to save the autoworker,' he added. With less than four months until the Iowa caucuses officially jumpstart the GOP nomination process, the pressure is building on Trump's rivals to show they can emerge as a genuine alternative. J.L. Partners polled 546 Republican viewers in the hour after the debate ended. The results carry a margin on error of 4.2 percentage points The seven candidates onstage kept talking about what they would do when they become president. But there was little evidence any of them was trying to win that office. The participants spent the two hours largely agreeing with each other on substance, but bickering over baroque bits of policy or history. Unless prompted, they didn't bring up the man who is absolutely dominating the field, Trump. The only exception was Christie, whose entire campaign is predicated on slamming the man whose two prior candidacies he supported. But even most of Christie's barbs were about Trump's debate dodging rather than trying to persuade Republican voters to end their love affair with the ex-president. Still, he went further than just about anyone else in arguing against Trump, closing the debate by saying, 'This man has not only divided our party, he's divided families all over this country.' A British Army corporal bought a female soldier alcohol and then complained the drinks were not taking effect before 'forcing himself on her', a court martial has heard. Corporal Isimeli Seru, 40, sent WhatsApp messages to his comrade and 'pushed' her to go drinking with him at the on-site bar at the Invicta Park Barracks, in Maidstone, Kent. He bought her two Strongbows and a Jack Daniels and then moaned 'they weren't having an effect', the hearing at Bulford Military Court, in Wiltshire, heard. After three drinks she decided to go back to her room, but Cpl Seru followed her and offered to do her ironing and admin before he 'grabbed her' and started touching her body, the court martial was told. It is then alleged he 'forced his tongue down her throat' and was 'rubbing her in-between her legs', only stopping when she burst out into tears and then offered her some food. Corporal Isimeli Seru, 40, denies sexually assaulting a female comrade at the Invicta Park Barracks in Maidstone, Kent The female soldier managed to escape and went to a friend's room for help, the hearing was told. Cpl Seru denies two charges of sexual assault and behaving in a sexual manner. The court heard the pair were not close and the Sunday afternoon WhatsApp message was 'innocuous', reading 'What are you up to?' Prosecuting, Rupert Gregory, said: 'She's not a drinker and she didn't want to drink but nevertheless, he pushed her.' Giving evidence, the woman said: 'I said I didn't want to drink it at first and he was saying I was trying to get away from him. He bought a JD and brought that over. 'He was going around saying the drinks weren't having an effect on me.' After three drinks, the woman said she needed to go and collect a parcel from the post room and Cpl Seru insisted on joining her. There, the woman said she felt his hands around her waist but she 'just ignored it and brushed it off'. She told the military court: 'As I started going back to my room he kept insisting "I will do your ironing for you" and "I will do your admin for you". 'I really didn't know what to think because he really wasn't taking the hint so I didn't know what to say but I didn't want to be rude or anything. 'I said I have admin but he wasn't getting the memo. He kept saying "I will do it".' The court heard Cpl Seru entered her room and then 'grabbed her'. Bulford Military Court, in Wiltshire, heard Cpl Seru followed the female soldier back to her room where he is accused of sexually assaulting her Mr Gregory said: 'He grabbed her with both of his hands and pulled her towards him so that she was on top of him. He pulled her around so that she was lying next to him. 'During that, his hands were around her waist and he was feeling her body - specifically her chest area - and up and down her body. 'After a bit she was able to get up off the bed. He still had his arms around her so she pushed herself up and away from him.' The soldier managed to escape and leave the room but when she came back, he is alleged to have tried again. Mr Gregory said: 'As soon as she stepped through the door he grabbed her, put his hands around her, and did the same thing again. 'With this assault, he went a little bit further by moving his left hand in-between her legs and rubbing her in-between her legs.' Describing the events, the female soldier tearfully told the court: 'He started feeling my chest again but then his hands moved down to my private area - in between my legs. 'He was rubbing but it was just outside my tights. That happened, I continually told him to stop but then he wouldn't stop so I got overwhelmed I started breaking down and crying. 'He was still trying to force himself to kiss me and he kept sticking his tongue in my mouth and I told him to stop. 'He stopped when he saw I was crying and was trying to wipe tears away from my face. 'He was asking me why I was crying, I said it was because of the alcohol. It wasn't. 'I didn't want him to feel like I was upset because I didn't know what else he was going to do so I said it was because of the alcohol. 'After he saw me crying again he asked if he wanted to do my ironing and then he asked if I wanted food.' She then left the room and managed to get away, by going to her friend's room for help. The trial continues. A 15-year-old girl has been brutally gang-raped, murdered and dumped in a 50ft-deep well in the latest shocking sex attack to rock India. The tenth-grade student was reported missing by her grandfather after allegedly being kidnapped by three individuals on September 23. The girl's body was tragically found at the bottom of a well in the Ramgarh Shekhawati region of Sikar city, Rajasthan, less than 24 hours later. Sikar police have now arrested two adults and a child who is believed to be the prime suspect in the alleged gang rape and murder of a minor. A police official confirmed that a 15-year-old has been apprehended, while his two accomplices, Sameer and Ghulam, both 19, have also been detained. A 15-year-old girl has been brutally gang-raped, murdered and dumped in a 50ft-deep well in the latest shocking sex attack to rock India. Pictured: The body bag, which has been muzzed, being lifted from the well They are being interrogated by police while detectives gather critical evidence from the crime scene. Heart-breaking footage shows the moment that officials discovered the tragic girl's body and lifted it up to ground level using a rope. The girl was first reported missing by her grandfather at the Ramgarh Sethan police station on September 24 where he claimed his granddaughter had been kidnapped the night before. Police then carried out an extensive search operation to find the missing girl and on Sunday afternoon, her lifeless body was discovered in a well. The police then transported the body to the mortuary of the Ramgarh Sethan government hospital. In accordance with the wishes of the family, the final rites were conducted in Jasrasar village, Sardarseher. The girl was from the Churu district and had been living with her grandparents in Lavanda where she was studying. 'Due to concerns of rape and murder, relevant sections of the law were added to the case, and further investigation was initiated after the body of the deceased minor was identified,' an official told media. The cops confirmed that the CCTV footage had revealed the identification of those responsible for the horrific crimes. 'The CCTV footage installed along the route to the victim's house has been reviewed and the suspects are seen approaching and leaving the victim's residence,' a police official told local media. The girl's body was tragically found at the bottom of a well in the Ramgarh Shekhawati region of Sikar city, Rajasthan 'The identification has been confirmed through the CCTV footage of the suspects involved. One of the suspects also has an injury in his hand,' the cop further maintained. Family members have organised a large protest on Sunday to demand swift action is taken against the accused. They also called for the attackers to face harsh punishment. The protesters maintained that the victim's family should also be compensated. Earlier this month, a 14-year-old girl was gang-raped before being burned alive in a furnace in India. Officers have charged 11 men over the shocking sex attack and murder in Rajasthan after the bones of the teenager were found burning inside the kiln. The horrifying murder has caused anger and outrage not only among the bereaved family but across the country. Only a few months ago, two women in Manipur were allegedly paraded naked and sexually assaulted by a mob. The violence against women and young girls has led to nation-wide protests, with people demanding urgent action for their safety. British households could be paid to turn down their heating this winter to avoid gas shortages. National Gas, which runs the UK's main transmission network, is exploring a similar scheme to the one introduced for electricity last year following the chaos caused by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The scheme could respond to fears of a looming shortage by paying volunteers to cut their gas usage. National Gas already runs a similar scheme of big industrial consumers but it has never been extended to homes. Glenn Bryn-Jacobsen, head of energy resilience for National Gas, told the Financial Times: 'We could end up in a situation where households can effectively say, 'I'll turn down my heating by two degrees today and make that saving'.' The company, which is owned by Macquarie, a controversial Australian bank embroiled in the debit crisis at Thames Water, said it was running a 'small scale' trial to see if it was something it wants to introduce in the long term. Under the National Grid's Demand Flexibility Service (DFS), families were paid between 10 and 20 to cut their usage to prevent blackouts. The scheme began in January and ran until March. More than one million users signed up for the programme. However, critics condemned the decision to open it to only the 29.5million homes and businesses with smart meters, which means just under half the population is ineligible. Some critics told MailOnline they are being 'excluded' because they can't get a meter - complaining of waits of six months or more. READ MORE - Energy boss warns UK households that gas and electricity bills could stay at 2,000 for the foreseeable future Advertisement In an update today, energy bosses said they expected Britain to have sufficient supplies this winter thanks to more power generation available than last year and brimming gas stores across Europe. Last year, National Grid's Electricity System Operator (ESO) warned Britain could face three-hour planned power cuts if the country was unable to import enough gas as Europe grappled with reduced supply from Russia and low gas storage levels. 'If you look at that risk position compared with this year and last year, the risks are much much lower now,' ESO Head of National Control, Craig Dyke said in an interview to coincide with the publication of its winter outlook. In a separate report, National Gas said it expected to have sufficient supplies this winter. Mr Dyke said the supply picture was better this year due to higher availability of the French nuclear fleet, which often supplies Britain with electricity, more gas and wind capacity and additional battery storage capabilities. ESO said its base case for de-rated margin, which is a measure of the amount of excess capacity expected above peak electricity demand, is currently 4.4 gigawatts (GW) for winter 2023/24, or 7.4% of capacity, up from 3.7 GW, or 6.3% last winter. Mr Dyke said geopolitical risks to supply still remain, given the ongoing war in Ukraine, and that under extreme circumstances it could be forced to curb supply, but the risk of this happening has severely diminished since last year. ESO will again use its demand flexibility service (DFS) which pays people, usually via money off their bills, for turning off appliances such as ovens and dishwashers during a specific periods when electricity demand is high. National Gas, which runs the UK's main transmission network, may start paying households to turn down their heating Last winter, the scheme saved over 3,300 megawatt hours of electricity or enough to power 10 million homes, but Dyke said it expects to treble the amount of capacity available under the mechanism this year. The prospect for gas supplies is also improved this year, National Gas said in its winter outlook. 'It would take a combination of events (e.g. a very cold winter in the UK coinciding with a major interruption to one of our gas supply sources) for there to be a material risk to our energy security,' Ian Radley, Systems Operations Director at National Gas said in a statement, A significant slump in Russian gas exports to Europe last year following Russia's invasion of Ukraine meant Britain exported record amounts of gas to the continent last year. National Gas said this was unlikely to be repeated this winter as Europe has built up high amounts of gas storage and built terminals to allow it to import more liquefied natural gas. (LNG). Total British gas demand for this winter is forecast at 7.8billion cubic metres (bcm), some 1.5 bcm lower than the actual demand in winter 2022/23, National Gas said. Sir Keir Starmer has admitted that fretting about how his children might adapt to life in Downing Street is the 'single thing' that keeps him awake at night. The Labour leader, who is on course to become prime minister on current opinion polling, revealed his worries for his son and daughter should they move into No10. In a new episode of BBC podcast 'Political Thinking with Nick Robinson, Sir Keir spoke of his and his wife Victoria's efforts to 'protect' their children. Should he become PM after the general election, which is expected next year, the Labour leader insisted he was 'really not daunted' about taking office. But he added: 'I am worried about my children, that is probably the single thing that does keep me awake - as to how we will protect them through this.' Sir Keir Starmer has admitted that fretting about how his children might adapt to life in Downing Street is the 'single thing' that keeps him awake at night. In a new episode of BBC podcast 'Political Thinking with Nick Robinson, the Labour leader spoke of his and his wife Victoria's efforts to 'protect' their children Rishi Sunak and his family shunned recent tradition by moving into the Downing Street flat above No10, rather than the more spacious residence above No11, when he became PM Sir Keir, if he enters No10, would be among a number of recent PMs to move into Downing Street with a family. Rishi Sunak, Liz Truss, Boris Johnson, David Cameron, Gordon Brown and Sir Tony Blair have all combined parenthood with life in No10. Sir Keir revealed, as the general election draws nearer, he and his family were needing to be 'very security conscious in a way that we weren't before'. He also conceded that life was becoming 'different for my family, different for my children... and I worry about that'. 'I'm really not daunted about the difficult decisions we will have to make in government, if we get that far,' Sir Keir told the podcast. 'I am worried about my children, that is probably the single thing that does keep me awake - as to how we will protect them through this. 'At the moment we're in the stage of - this is very much Vic, my wife - let's take each day as it comes. 'So we don't do the great planning or anything like that, that would be presumptuous. 'But we do try to protect them. We don't name them in public. My boy is 15 and my girl is 12. I want to protect them. We don't use photos of them in any way. 'I want to, for as long as I can, to preserve that space for them. But am I worried? I am worried.' Mr Sunak and his family shunned recent tradition by moving into the Downing Street flat above No10, rather than the more spacious residence above No11, when he became PM. Downing Street aides explained this is because the family were 'very happy' in the No10 flat when they lived there while Mr Sunak was Chancellor. Since 1997, it has been custom for PMs to live in the No11 flat. A British terrorist who travelled to Syria intent on martyrdom is set to be released from jail after serving just 10 years of a 12-year sentence. Mohammed Nahin Ahmed and his childhood friend Yusuf Zubair Sarwar were both jailed in 2014 and branded dangerous by the trial judge after pleading guilty of joining a jihadi group in Syria. The men, both 22, pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in preparation of terrorism acts contrary to Section 5 of the Terrorism Act. They were both sentenced to 12 years and eight months with an extended licence period of five years. MailOnline revealed in July that Sarwar, now aged 31, was released from jail on licence after a Parole Board hearing in April 2022. He was required to serve two-thirds of his custodial sentence before being considered for release. Sarwar had only served nine years of his 12 years and eight months sentence. Mohammed Nahin Ahmed will have served just over 10 years in jail if he is released at the end of the year following a parole hearing A police image of Ahmed, released as he appeared on trial charged with terrorism offences. He was jailed in 2014 after admitting preparing terrorist acts Ahmed and co-conspirator Yusuf Zabair Sarwar said they were travelling to Turkey on a university trip (pictured at Heathrow) but they then went on to Syria MailOnline can now confirm that Ahmed, also 31, has been granted a parole hearing on the 6th December and could be freed before the end of 2023. He would have served just over 10 years in jail. A spokesperson for the Parole Board said: An oral hearing has been listed for the parole review of Mohammed Nahin Ahmed and is scheduled to take place in December 2023. 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 including probation officers, psychiatrists and psychologists, officials supervising the offender in prison as well as victim personal statements are then given at the hearing. The prisoner and witnesses are then 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. In terms of Ahmeds parole bid, it is more contentious as he had an application to be released on licence rejected by the Parole Board in July 2021. No reason has been published for the decision. 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 2021, the parole hearing decided Ahmed was still too dangerous to be released. A police handout of Yusuf Zubair Sarwar, who was released from jail nine years into a 12-year sentence last year Sarwar as he appeared in a police mugshot following his arrest after travelling to Syria to join jihadi rebels Previously, referring to the number of terrorists being released, Chris Phillips, the UKs former Head of the National Counter Terrorism, told MailOnline: The people being released are convicted terrorists. We know that prison is not reforming prisoners so we are faced with more people who are very dangerous on our streets. You cannot adequately monitor these people. We have seen attacks on our streets and more people murdered by recently released terrorists. It is likely we will see more in the future. Woolwich Crown Court was told in 2014 that the pair, both from Birmingham, had travelled to the war-torn country in May 2013 to join an Al-Qaeda linked terrorist group after contacting Islamic extremists who were fighting against Syrian president Bashar al-Assad. Traces of military-grade explosives, including TNT and nitroglycerine, were found on their clothes when they returned to the UK in January 2014. They had joined a militant group called Kataib al-Muhajireen (KaM). At the time of their sentencing judge Michael Topolski said: They willingly, enthusiastically and with a great deal of purpose, persistence and determination embarked on a course intended to commit acts of terrorism. The judge added: The consequences for them are dramatic and distressing for the families concerned. It is with no enthusiasm that the court sentences young men to significant terms of imprisonment. A grave crime has been committed. The sentence in each is an extended sentence of 17 years and eight months.' Sarwar left a scribbled letter for his mother when he fled for Syria in which he called the government 'kufaar' - an Islamic term used to refer to non-believers READ MORE: Extremist, 30, who called himself 'The father of terrorism' is walking the streets free - despite being previously turned down for parole for being 'too risky' Khuram Iqbal was turned down for parole but then was automatically released just two months later at the end of his sentence Advertisement The judge said he had imposed a longer licence term after reaching the clear conclusion that Sarwar and Ahmed were dangerous. He said they were both fundamentalists who are interested in and deeply committed to violent extremism. Judge Topolski rejected arguments from lawyers for Sarwar and Ahmed that the sentence should be reduced because the pair joined a group fighting the Syrian president. This was not a spontaneous response to travel to a humanitarian crisis, he said. This was a well-planned operation put into action for very different reasons. The judge said that whilst he concluded that Sarwar and Ahmed had not planned an attack in the UK, there was evidence to show that without doubt that the men were travelling to Syria intending on jihad and martyrdom on the battlefield. DCS Sue Southern, head of the West Midlands police counter-terrorism unit, said at the time: This case typifies the challenges both police and families are facing when it comes to young people being influenced to join the conflict in Syria or Iraq. These two men had no previous connections to extremist organisations and no police record. They were not known to us. However, one of them was clearly being influenced by extremists he was talking to online, and he in turn was radicalising his friend. They both deceived their families and, by the time we were contacted, serious offences had already been committed. We had no choice but to arrest and charge the pair on their return. MailOnline has highlighted a number of dangerous terrorists - mostly British born - who have been released from UK prisons without publicity over the last few years and may still pose a security risk. These include Khuram Iqbal, now 30, who once called himself the father of terrorism, who was rejected for release by the Parole Board in October 2022, but was allowed to leave prison in December that year. Iqbal was jailed in 2014, then aged 21, for three years and three months for disseminating terrorist publications and possessing terrorist information. He was released on licence in May 2015 but recalled to jail in 2016 for breaching a ten-year notification order by failing to tell police about two cryptocurrency accounts. A New York City college art professor who was filmed putting a machete on a reporter's neck and bullying pro-life students from another school seems to have landed on her feet again just four months after being fired. Shellyne Rodriguez, 46, was fired from the School of Visual Arts earlier this year after she was filmed berating pro-life students at Hunter College, removing their display and accusing them of pushing 'propaganda'. When a New York Post reporter went to her apartment to ask her about the video, she pulled a machete on him. But now, barely four months on, Rodriguez has landed a role at Cooper Union. Shellyne Rodriguez, 46, was fired from the School of Visual Arts earlier this year after she was filmed berating pro-life students at Hunter College, removing their display and accusing them of pushing 'propaganda'. She has now landed a new teaching job On May 2, Rodriguez was filmed berating two pro-life students at Hunter College then tossing their pamphlets Rodriguez is now working at The Cooper Union, a prestigious, private art school in Manhattan She is listed as an adjunct professor on the school's website, and is also on the fall semester list of professors. Cooper Union did not immediately respond to DailyMail.com's inquiries about the role. Rodriguez handed herself in to police in May after the incident involving the reporter. She however blamed her firing from the school on 'racists, white nationalists and misogynists'. Unlike The School of Visual Arts at Hunter College, Cooper Union is a private school. Rodriguez is shown at a court hearing in Bronx Criminal Court on June. She was charged after pulling a machete on a reporter's neck It is unclear what ever came of the criminal charges Rodriguez was facing. The saga began on May 2 when she was filmed berating two pro-lifers who had set up a table with information pamphlets at Hunter College. 'You're not educating s***,' Rodriguez said to one of the students. 'This is f***ing propaganda. What are you going to do, like, anti-trans next? This is bulls***. This is violent. You're triggering my students.' One of the male students attempts to speak with Rodriguez before she interrupts him, saying: 'You can't even have a f***ing baby.' Rodriguez then starts to shove their pamphlets off the display table and demanding they 'get this s*** the f*** out of here.' She offered one more 'f*** this s***' before walking away, as the two students attempt to put their pamphlets back in place. When New York Post reporter Reuven Fenton visited her Bronx apartment to confront her, she went bizerk. 'Get the fk away from my door, or Im gonna chop you up with this machete!' she said, emerging with the blade and holding it to his neck. Mark Wahlberg has thrown his Vegas future into doubt by selling his luxury $16.6million townhouse last week after leading the exodus from California. The Transformers star sold the Nevada property at The Summit Club after buying it in August 2022, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal. He sold his $90million 12-bedroom, 20-bathroom Beverly Hills mansion last year, and moved his family to Vegas in October. It has raised questions over whether the star will continue with his plan to turn Nevada into Hollywood 2.0 after speaking at length about his aim to create 10,000 jobs and build a studio. Wahlberg, 52, admitted he is pushing to create change in the tax-free Silver State, hoping to give his children a 'better life' in their new home. The actor sold the Nevada property last week after purchasing the home at The Summit Club in August 2022 and moving his family to Las Vegas in October His wife, model Rhea Durham, and his four children Ella, 20, Michael, 17, Brendan, 15 and Grace, 13, all made the move with him and reportedly like Vegas Just months ago, he lobbied state lawmakers to pass a bill that would increase tax credits for film production from $10 million per year to $190 million over the next 20 years. The A-Lister made a profit of more than $2million from the sale of the 7,327 square feet property, which is across two stories. He also owns a 2.5 acre plot of land in the same area, which he bought for $15.6million last year, with plans to build out and live on. Wahlberg's townhouse property was reportedly purchased for the actor and his family to live in as construction begins for his new home. A representative for Wahlberg did not immediately respond to a request for comment by DailyMail.com. The Summit Club features a golf course, luxury homes and, its website declares, a 'wealth' of amenities including 'round-the-clock security.' His wife, model Rhea Durham, and his four children Ella, 20, Michael, 17, Brendan, 15 and Grace, 13, all made the move with him and reportedly like Vegas. The star also operates several F45 fitness centers in Las Vegas, and owns Wahlburger restaurants at Grand Bazaar Shops at the Horseshoe and Mandalay Place. He sold his $90million put his 12-bedroom, 20-bathroom Beverly Hills mansion on the market last year, and moved his family to Vegas in October The huge, expensive plot of land in Nevada's exclusive Summit Club where Wahlberg hopes to begin construction Celebs who have made Sin City home Mark Wahlberg isn't the only famous name who has said hello to Las Vegas. Other celebs who have camped in Sin City include: Celine Dion Sheena Easton Carrot Top Criss Angel Donny and Marie Osmond Holly Madison Floyd Mayweather Jr. Mike Tyson Imagine Dragons Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf Carlos Santana Nicolas Cage Gina Carano Steve Aoki Penn & Teller Source: 1 Oak Las Vegas Advertisement He has made several surprise appearances as a stunt bartender at the venues, where he promotes his Flecha Azul tequila. Speaking to CNBC in June, he said: 'I would love to see us building studios, creating jobs and just diversifying the economy. 'I've moved my last film here. I'm shooting another film here coming up in the summertime.' He's filmed two movies in and around Las Vegas, 'The Family Plan' and Flight Risk, which he wants to premier in the area at Christmas. 'That's the plan, as of right now. It's not 110 percent, but that's kind of what we're gunning for, a Christmas release,' Wahlberg told the Review. 'I would love to do a big premiere here in Nevada, our new home.' Wahlberg, who is a Christian, was one of many celebrities who made the exodus out of California in response to the state's countless problems that have seen few fixes. Boston-native Wahlberg lived in his Beverly Hills mansion for more than a decade, but he described his time in California almost as if it was a missed opportunity. 'I want to be able to work from home. I moved to California many years ago to pursue acting and I've only made a couple of movies in the entire time that I was there,' he explained. 'So, to be able to give my kids a better life and follow and pursue their dreams whether it be my daughter as an equestrian, my son as a basketball player, my younger son as a golfer, this made a lot more sense for us.' Wahlberg moved to Nevada in hopes of getting a tax credit that would ease the creation of his proposed film studio, which he called 'Hollywood 2.0' Wahlberg shares Ella, 19; Michael, 16; Brendan, 14; and Grace, 12, with his wife Rhea, 44 His push is the latest among celebrities and states looking for a new filming capital after liberal policies in California have led to high taxes, increased 'wokeness,' crime and rampant homelessness. Other celebrities have also fled the democratic state including Elon Musk, Joe Rogan, Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne and Matt Damon. 'I think there's so much more opportunity to be created here. There's so much growth and so much potential, it's a wonderful opportunity for everybody to prosper,' Wahlberg said. He added: 'The average salary would be $100,000 more than what it is now. We want to train people both in front of and behind the camera, create jobs, most importantly, first and foremost, for locals.' A shameless thief was caught on camera trying to steal booze while an ITV journalist interviewed the store's owner about Britain's shoplifting epidemic. The footage was filmed in a shop in Croydon, south London, and captured the moment the brazen thief attempted to barge his way past the camera crew. Wearing a camouflage coat, the man is caught on CCTV casually wandering down an aisle before then taking a bottle of alcohol and shoving it in his pocket. Remarkably, as this was happening, live CCTV footage of the shoplifter was playing in the background while an ITV journalist interviewed shopkeeper Ben Selvaratnam. 'I think he's... I think he's stealing,' a woman is heard saying, before the camera pans around and films the man being confronted by shop staff. The man was caught on CCTV trying to steal two bottles of alcohol from the south London shop Remarkably, as this was happening, live CCTV footage of the shoplifter is playing in the background as an ITV journalist interviews shopkeeper Ben Selvaratnam (pictured) The camera then pans around to capture the moment the man, wearing a camouflage coat, attempts to leave the shop 'I'm going to pay for it in a minute, bro,' says the man before handing two bottles of beer over and demanding the shop worker 'moves' out of his way as he leaves empty-handed. Speaking to ITV News afterwards Mr Selvaratnam said: 'They're so brazen that no one's going to challenge them.' 'They're clearly getting away with it, that's what it tells me. So when we're challenging them, it's almost like "what are you doing? You won't need to challenge us. We're used to just walking in and out".' Retail bosses say they are powerless to stop shoplifters from running riot in their stores. Police chiefs have increasingly come under fire for the apparent lack of action in tackling the looting epidemic blighting stores, with the chairman of Asda this month saying shoplifting had essentially been 'decriminalised'. The British Retail Consortium (BRC) said this summer shoplifting had risen 27 per cent across ten of the largest cities in the UK, with some cities up as much as 68 per cent. It estimates that shops lost 953million to customer theft last year - the greatest loss on record in recent years. And official statistics published by the Office for National Statistics show that shoplifting rose 24 per cent between March 2022 and March 2023. The camera crew continues to film as the man is confronted by a shop worker while another customer looks on After handing over the two bottles, the man then leaves the store Heartless thieves are even targeting charity shops - with 80 per cent of non-profits reporting a rise in thefts of donated goods. Shops are now having to take desperate measures to deter thieves - from installing facial recognition cameras to locking up baby formula. Staff at supermarket chains Aldi, Waitrose, the Co-op, Morrisons and Tesco, are being given body-worn cameras as retailers seek to boost security measures. But the Co-op has gone further, hiring their own private security - made of police and army veterans - to work undercover to protect their stores. It comes as one of the retailer's most senior executive told MailOnline that police are ignoring up 80 per cent of shoplifting cases. The chain has witnessed a 41 per cent rise in incidents of shoplifting in the first eight months of the year compared to the last, MailOnline revealed last week. Paul Gerrard, the firm's campaigns and public affairs director, said the number of cases of violence being used against staff had also increased by 25 per cent. The Co-op recently revealed it had invested in undercover security guards who perform citizen's arrests on thieves. But Mr Gerrard - who used to work in law enforcement - admitted that in the majority of cases they had to be let go because officers never turn up. 'These are highly trained expert guards - often ex-police and ex-forces - who work undercover in stores where there's a particular problem,' he told MailOnline. 'They will intervene and make a citizen's arrest and detain the individual. But even in those cases when we've detained an offender and called for police assistance the police don't attend in 80 per cent of cases. Co-op has previously released footage of its staff grappling with shoplifters in stores Team leader Charlene Corbin was bottled by a shoplifter at the Co-op where she works 'That's despite us having the offender in our control in the store, with CCTV evidence. 'We'll keep them until we know if the police are going to turn up or not - that could be 15 minutes or an hour. READ MORE - Boutique boss tackles thieves AGAIN: Moment brave businesswoman catches shoplifter trying to steal 250 worth of Paco Rabanne Advertisement 'But if they're not going to turn up they let them go. 'In some ways it's even worse than not intervening in the first place because they know that even if they're caught they can still get out.' Mr Gerrard is the latest retail executive to warn of a dramatic increase in shoplifting across the UK high street, which John Lewis chair Sharon White recently described as an 'epidemic'. He continued: 'We are running at about a thousand incidents of shoplifting a day across our two and a half thousand stores. 'Four or five colleagues will be physically attacked every day. We've seen syringes, knives and we even saw a medieval mace a couple of years ago. 'This isn't just a bit of pushing and shoving - it's serious violence leading to broken bones. 'What's behind the increase isn't opportunism. The majority of the rise is down to gangs and individuals who are targeting our stores to steal large volumes of products.' Pictured is the wound Ms Corbin sustained after being bottled by a thief at her store Paul Gerrard, the Co-op's campaigns and public affairs director, said there has been a 41 per cent rise in incidents of shoplifting in the first eight months of the year READ MORE - Video appears to show moment one-legged woman attempts to break loose from Tesco as security guard tries to keep her inside Advertisement The BRC added that incidents of violence and abuse against retail staff have nearly doubled from more than 450 per day in 2019/2020 to more than 850 last year - with crimes including racial or sexual abuse, assault and threats with weapons. Earlier this month it was revealed ten of Britain's top retailers agreed to fund a police crackdown on shoplifting gangs - by paying cops to scan faces of thieves using CCTV. High street giants including John Lewis, Co-op, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Waitrose and Next are among those reportedly pumping 600,000 into the operation, dubbed Project Pegasus. In return, police forces will run CCTV images of suspected shoplifters through the national database, which includes the latest facial recognition technology. The introduction of Project Pegasus has since been hailed as a 'game-changer' by police chiefs, who claim it will give them a national picture of where shoplifting gangs are operating and the stores they are targeting. A shoplifter has a tug of war with a Co-op worker in Liverpool Katy Bourne, Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner who is the national lead for business and retail crime, claimed 20 per cent of offenders account for 80 per cent of shoplifting offences in her county. Speaking of Project Pegasus, she told The Times: 'It'll be a game-changer for policing because for the first time ever, policing will get a complete picture across the country of where these gangs are hitting different areas and they'll have that data and intelligence to be able to put that out to local police forces to go after those gangs.' Home Secretary Suella Braverman has ordered police to investigate every theft as part of a major crackdown. But the move faced criticism from the National Police Chiefs' Council, who accused her of meddling in forces' operational independence. Speaking of the epidemic blighting the Co-op, Matt Hood, managing director of food, said: 'The rise in shop looting and retail crime, perpetuated by repeat, prolific offenders and organised criminal gangs is becoming one of the most significant issues facing UK communities. 'This isn't a victimless crime, as my store colleagues who have been verbally abused and had knives and syringes pulled on them can vouch for, but it is seemingly a consequence-less crime. 'The Home Office and NPCC say every crime will be investigated, which are great words, but actions are better and, frankly, yet to be seen, as our stores report serious crimes every single day, but in 71pc of cases, no police turn up. 'Co-op has invested over 200million to try and keep our colleagues and stores safe, so I am increasingly frustrated by how our efforts are not being matched by those who have the power to enforce consequences.' Optus is set to make more than a third of its staff at a call centre in Adelaide redundant. Around 150 of the 400 workers at its North Terrace office will be out of work within four weeks, with the telco saying slashing the jobs will 'strengthen our business'. Some workers have reportedly been told their redundancy packages could be affected if they talk to the media about the mass lay-offs. But those who spoke anonymously to 7News said they were stunned, as the company hired and trained new staff there just a few months ago. Employees have also questioned if the job cuts are designed to cut costs as Optus faces a class action lawsuit on behalf of 100,000 of its customers affected by a massive data breach in September 2022. In a move that has shocked employees, Optus is set to sack more than a third of its staff from a call centre in Adelaide. Call centre workers are pictured READ MORE: Gladys Berejiklian's future at Optus in doubt The company behind Optus has declared it has a 'zero tolerance' for corruption further raising questions about Gladys Berejiklian's future with the telco giant. Advertisement In a cautiously worded statement, an Optus spokesperson said the company 'continually evaluates our organisational structure to ensure it is the right one for meeting our customers' needs'. The statement added that the telecommunications giant had 'recently undertaken a review and taken steps to simplify our business while still investing in those areas we know matter to our customers. 'As part of this review, we are realigning teams which will impact some roles across our business.' In words that will be of little comfort to the workers headed for a bleak Christmas, the spokesperson also said 'This has been a challenging decision to make but necessary to strengthen our business.' Optus said it will try to redeploy some staff whose roles have been made redundant, with some understood to have already been offered positions in other states. The mass redundancies come five months after Optus was hit by Australia's largest-ever hacking scandal, where the private information including key identity documents was compromised and in some cases stolen. About 20 terabytes of data were improperly accessed including current and former customers' names, dates of birth, phone numbers and email addresses A subset of the 9.8million affected customers also had their addresses and identity document numbers compromised. Affected customers have since launched a class action law suit with firm Slater and Gordon. Around 150 of the 400 workers at its North Terrace office will be out of work within four weeks, with Optus saying slashing the jobs will 'strengthen our business'. The Optus logo is pictured Dan Andrews reportedly launched into an expletive-laden 'tirade' during a meeting to determine his successor. The outgoing Victorian Premier's alleged attempt to engineer an all-Socialist Left leadership team of Jacinta Allan and Tim Pallas backfired when he realised Labor Party rules would require them to hold a ballot of members after ministers on the Right of the party threw their hats into the ring. 'Daniel exploded in caucus,' a Labor source told The Australian. Dan Andrews (pictured) reportedly launched into an expletive-laden 'tirade' during a meeting to determine his successor Jacinta Allan, the woman elected to replace Dan Andrews as Victorian premier, appears with new deputy leader Ben Carroll 'His rant was second to none. It was f***ing this, f***ing that. He basically said to them: "You all have the right to aspire to be promoted. You don't have the right to bring divisions into this room".' Another added: 'It was a classic Daniel manoeuvre, complete with a classic botching of the detail around party rules.' The sources told the newspaper that the eventual compromise of Ms Allan as Premier and Right-aligned Ben Carroll as her deputy was struck at Mr Andrew's urging. 'He told them: "You guys, sort this out. There's a fricking deal to be made here. Do it now",' a Labor source said. 'The last thing he did was what he should have done at the very beginning.' Mr Andrews did not comment on the newspaper's claims. 'The 49th Premier was elected unopposed by the caucus, and she has my full support,' he said. Mr Andrews announced his shock resignation on Tuesday, after winning three elections for the Victorian Labor Party. Despite his success, he will leave a divisive legacy due to Melbourne's Covid-19 lockdowns, which were among the longest of any city in the world, with many critics dubbing him 'Dictator Dan'. Hundreds of people gathered on the steps of Victorian parliament to celebrate Mr Andrews' resignation on Wednesday. Ms Allan paid tribute to her predecessor when she took over the Victorian Premiership on Wednesday, describing him as the 'the fabulous Daniel Andrews'. 'He's been driven by his values every single day he has served the Victorian community,' she said. Daniel Andrews and his successor as Victorian Premier Jacinta Allen are pictured in 2022 But she signalled she would move away from his domineering approach. 'What I will bring to this role I will bring hard work I will be driven by my values and driven by that genuine desire to listen to people,' she said. Unlike Mr Andrews whose focus was very much on transport infrastructure Ms Allan said that helping solve the state's chronic housing crisis would be her first priority. 'Housing challenges are first and foremost in my mind,' she said. 'How do we build more homes, more affordable homes more quickly.' Ms Allan is the first woman to lead the state since Labor's Joan Kirner stepped down more than 30 years ago in 1992. She became emotional talking about Ms Kirner who she said had been a 'wonderful mentor' to her and others in the Labor party. Ms Allan reflected on this she voiced the hope that her elevation to premier would show 'young women, older women, women from across all parts of the state' that they have a role at all levels of leadership. 'They can see that leadership comes in different shapes and sizes,' Ms Allan said. 'Whether it's in politics, running local community groups, being a small business person, running big corporations, running a farm, women have a place to be recognised as leaders in all of these roles across our community.' A female student in an upstate New York high school was asked to fill out a 'relationship application' that asked her whether her relationship would 'cause drama' and if it would impact her grades. A picture of the application has now gone viral. Is asks who the student is dating or plans to date, it also asks if she would commit to only 'appropriate interactions' with hand-holding, high-fives and shoulder hugs that do not last longer than three seconds being used as examples. The existence of the form, which was issued by the Rensselaer School's vice principal, sparked outrage among parents in the town of Rensselaer, located on the outskirts of Albany. 'When the Facebook complaints were brought to my attention last week, I also had some questions and concerns based on the form and way that it was presented. After looking into the matter, my concerns were eased,' Rensselaer City School District administrator Joseph Kardash said in a statement on the questionnaire. Kardash added that the vice principal who administered the 'relationship application' previously used one in a previous role in order to 'address student drama that stems from high school relationships. It was intended to address student responses and reactions that stem from adolescent relationships.' The infamous relationship application form The school board's vice principal said that the form is 'inappropriate.' 'Navigating relationships at that age is really difficult. To be singled out at school? I think its just inappropriate. For a faculty member to want to know personal information just doesnt seem right,' Lark Rutecki told WNYT. Rutecki also said that she felt as though officials were attempting to sweep the issue under the rug. 'When a parent is bringing a concern to you, school board members are bringing concern to you, and youre just brushing it aside? It feels like youre protecting a staff member versus being concerned about how this impacted the student involved,' she added. The incident because such an issue, that Rensselaer's Mayor Mike Stammel has became involved. The mayor told WNYT that he received complaints from parents after the station aired a report on the form. He called the application 'invasive.' The incident because such an issue, that Rensselaer's Mayor Mike Stammel has became involved Stammel said that he immediately contacted Superintendent Kardash who assured him that the form would not be used again. In his statement, Kardash went on to defend the official as saying that it was used as a direct reaction to a relationship that had created some animosity between students. The form was received by the student but was not filled out or handed back in. 'It was an effort to inspire reflection and context of student conflict,' Kardash added. He also called the form 'outdated' and 'not appropriate for societal expectations today.' 'We appreciate and embrace being held to a high standard as educators. Unfortunately, opinions and misinformation on social media is not held to a similar standard,' the superintendent continued. Tensions have flared between Britain and Spain ahead of an upcoming European summit as Rishi Sunak demands a focus on illegal migration, it has emerged. The latest meeting of the European Political Community next week will see leaders from 47 countries gather in Granada. The Prime Minister is reportedly pushing for the summit to make illegal migration its top priority as he grapples with the small boats crisis in the Channel. But the Spanish hosts are said to be resisting the demand and instead want the meeting to focus on Artificial Intelligence, the war in Ukraine and graduate mobility. According to the Telegraph, French officials have been drafted in to mediate in the diplomatic row between Britain and Spain. Tensions have flared between Britain and Spain ahead of an upcoming European summit as Rishi Sunak is reportedly demanding a focus on illegal migration The Prime Minister is reportedly pushing for the European Political Community meeting to make illegal migration its top priority as he grapples with the small boats crisis in the Channel But Mr Sunak appears to be losing a battle to get European leaders to discuss the subject at next week's EPC summit in Granada, which is home to the Alhambra palace 'The British are starting to cause havoc over the next EPC,' a foreign diplomatic source told the newspaper. 'They want to overhaul the entire agenda to replace it with migration, which is not planned today. 'They are taking advantage of what's happened in the Mediterranean to try and impose their own agenda on the Channel.' A second European diplomat said the UK had 'pushed' for the agenda to be switched, but said the efforts were 'not going to go anywhere'. The European Political Community - the brainchild of French President Emmanuel Macron - was formed after Russia's invasion of Ukraine last year. It brings together both European Union member states and those European nations that are outside the Brussels-based bloc. Former PM Liz Truss attended the first EPC summit in Prague last October, while Mr Sunak made a trip to Moldova in June for its second gathering. Speaking at that meeting, Mr Sunak stressed how he was 'putting tackling illegal migration top of the international agenda'. He had previously used a Council of Europe summit in Iceland in May to push for cooperation on tackling the issue. But the PM appears to be losing a battle to get European leaders to return to the subject at next week's EPC summit in Granada, which is home to the Alhambra palace. A senior UK government source claimed Spain had been consistently uninterested in discussing how to tackle illegal migration. 'They are the least interested of all the European countries on this issue,' they told the newspaper. EU member states are set to use a European Council summit towards the end of next month to discuss their own growing challenges with illegal migration. Italian PM Giorgia Meloni recently welcomed European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen to the Mediterranean island of Lampedusa, which has seen a recent surge in migrant arrivals. According to the EU Council website, the EPC meeting on 5 October will see leaders discuss how to make Europe more 'resilient, prosperous and geostrategic'. Footage of the aftermath comes as it emerged looters had bragged about their plan just hours before hitting stores A mob of thieves was left outraged after discovering Apple had disabled products they stole from a store in Philadelphia during a second night of looting. Video posted online shows the moment alarms on their stolen Apple devices blare in unison. The looters are then seen pouring a juice-like liquid onto the merchandise as girl recording is heard saying 'Oh my god, this is crazy.' Footage of the aftermath comes as it emerged looters had bragged about their plan just hours before hitting stores for a second night of mayhem in Philly. Video posted online shows the moment looters in Philadelphia discover items they stole from an Apple store have been disabled 'WHAT TIME WE GOING 'SHOPPING???', one person said on Instagram hours before their arrest. 'We looting or not??!!' wrote another. Businesses around the city tried their best to prepare for mayhem as they boarded up their walls and windows, but it didn't stop brazen thieves from swarming in again. About a dozen people broke into stores from Center City to Northeast and West Philadelphia. Described by police as 'criminal opportunists', they managed to break through spliced locks with bolt cutters and medal door protectors before they took shoes, electronics, clothes, liquor, pharmaceutical drugs and more. An ATM was also stolen as a looter used a chain and a U-Haul truck to drag the machine out of the store and place it in the back of the vehicle before he sped away. The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that three juveniles were arrested along with more than 50 others that were charged with burglary and theft, prosecutors said, and one person faces charges of illegal gun possession. Philadelphia has been hit with a second night of looting with thieves using a chain and U-Haul truck to steal an ATM machine from a bodega Fine Wine and Good Spirits locations decided to close their doors on Wednesday in an effort to curb the looting after 18 stores were attacked on Tuesday night. Looters still managed to break into a liquor store on Wednesday night and raided the lottery machine. Looter Dayjia Blackwell, also known as 'meatball' went on her Instagram and documented the looting with enthusiasm on Tuesday. She was soon found and arrested after she posted a video of the Apple, Lululemon and Footlocker store being ransacked, before she went and stole from a liquor store herself. Plans for the violence ensued after news quickly spread that a Philadelphia judge dismissed all charges against former Police Officer Mark Dial who shot and killed a black man named Eddie Irizarry last month. On Tuesday, the judge dismissed the charges as he ruled that the prosecutors didn't present enough evidence to show that the officer was responsible for the death of the 27-year-old. Fine Wine and Good Spirits locations decided to close their doors on Wednesday in an effort to curb the looting after 18 stores were attacked on Tuesday night According to The Philadelphia Inquirer: 'Municipal Court Judge Wendy L. Pew agreed with Dial's lawyers that the officer was justified when, and that he and his partner were reacting to a situation in which they believed Irizarry presented a potential threat to their safety.' Irizarry was pulled over by Dial for 'driving erratically' on August 14, just five seconds before he shot and killed him. He was armed with a knife which Dial's attorneys and his partners say he mistook for a gun. Looter Dayjia Blackwell, who livestreamed a mob-style looting spree in Philadelphia and encouraged others to join in, appeared distraught as police took her mug shot Dial, the cop, shot him through a rolled-up window. The judge agreed with his defense and threw out the case, to the horror of Irizarry's family. Just three weeks ago, the Philadelphia Police Commissioner resigned from her post as the Democratic run city dealt with a wave of homicides and lawlessness. Danielle Outlaw, 48, who has been Philly's top cop since February 2020, officially left the department on September 22. Outlaw's new role will be the Deputy Chief Security Officer at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, where she will oversee the airports, bridges, tunnels and other transportation infrastructure in the New York City area. Elon Musk has ignited a new war of words with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez after calling the firebrand congresswoman 'not that smart' on X. The Tesla mogul, 52, and AOC, 33, have a longstanding history of bickering back and forth online - and the latest instalment was triggered after Musk made a comment on her views on immigration. Responding to a video of AOC discussing migrants in New York City, billionaire Elon Musk said: 'She's just not that smart.' The congresswoman clapped back: 'I wasn't born rich and became the youngest woman in American history to be elected to Congress. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez told Elon Musk to: 'Stay mad' during their latest spat on X, formally Twitter 'Then I investigated Cohen, authored the largest FEMA funeral assistance program in history and led creation of a US Climate Corps to create tens of thousands of new jobs.' The native New Yorker told Musk to: 'Stay mad.' Musk sarcastically replied: 'I take it back you're obviously a genius.' He added: 'First, please allow me to congratulate you on these epic achievements. 'However, have you considered, rather than ''funeral assistance'', that FEMA focus its funding on preventing funerals in the first place?' This is not the first time that the two have had public spats - which often have flirty undertones. AOC, previously lashing out at Musk online, wrote: 'Tired of having to collectively stress about what explosion of hate crimes is happening bc some billionaire with an ego problem unilaterally controls a massive communication platform.' 'Stop hitting on me, I'm really shy,' Musk replied, adding a blushing emoji. 'I was talking about Zuckerberg, but ok,' she replied, before deleting the tweet a minute later. In May this year, the woke New York Congresswoman tweeted that she may abandon her 13.4million followers after Elon Musk promoted a 'sick' account impersonating her. She said she was 'assessing' what to do after the billionaire replied to a tweet from the parody account, 'Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Press Release (parody).' 'FYI there's a fake account on here impersonating me and going viral,' AOC tweeted. 'The Twitter CEO has engaged it, boosting visibility.' She claimed the account was 'releasing false policy statements,' after previously tweeting about her boyfriend's farts and her ideas to tackle climate change. 'I am assessing with my team how to move forward,' Ocasio-Cortez said. 'In the meantime, be careful of what you see,' she warned her followers. Her message came after Musk replied to a tweet from the parody account, which wrote: 'This might be the wine talking but I've got a crush on @ElonMusk.' The mogul replied with a fire emoji. The Tesla mogul, 52, and congresswoman AOC, 33, have a longstanding history of bickering back and forth online - and the latest instalment was triggered after Musk made a comment on her views on immigration She also previously claimed Musk had meddled with her account when she could not see notifications from verified accounts. The congresswoman suggested the issue started following a public argument. 'Yo @ElonMusk while I have your attention, why should people pay $8 just for their app to get bricked when they say something you don't like?' she tweeted earlier this year. Musk replied to the tweet joking, 'What can I say? It was a naked abuse of power.' And in December, AOC condemned Musk after he suspended the accounts of half a dozen journalists who reported on him and his takeover of Twitter. 'I get feeling unsafe, but descending into [an] abuse of power and erratically banning journalists only increases the intensity around you,' she wrote. 'As someone who has been subject to real and dangerous plots, I do get it. I didn't have security and have experienced many scary incidents. In fact, many of the right-wing outlets you now elevate published photos of my home, car, etc. Families have been given priority for housing in the city's hotels, leaving tens of thousands to fight for space in shelters or wait on the streets for a solution Thousands of asylum seekers have been bussed to major cities from border states including Texas as unprecedented numbers continue to enter the United States 'At a certain point, you gotta disconnect. Maybe try putting down your phone,' she suggested. 'You first, lol,' Musk replied at the time. New York City is struggling with about 60,000 asylums seekers under its care after Title 42, a pandemic-era border policy that gave officials advanced powers to detain people, ended in May. As well as the unprecedented numbers of asylum seekers flooding over the border, the reason New York has been hit so dramatically is also down to bus-loads of migrants being sent by frustrated southern states. Mayor Eric Adams said the city's contract with the more than 100 hotels-turned-shelters, which was supposed to end this year, will now end in August 2026 and cost a total $1.365 billion - almost five times the original price tag of $237 million. 'This issue will destroy New York City. Destroy New York City,' he warned earlier this month. Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Monday that an additional 150 soldiers will join more than 2,000 servicemen already helping with the migrant surge across New York state which has seen more than 116,000 people arrive just this year. New York City will distribute flyers at shelters and the southern border warning migrants that they will not be given free housing in the Big Apple - and telling them to go somewhere more affordable, as the sanctuary city has been overwhelmed by 116,000 new arrivals in just 18 months. Democratic Mayor Eric Adams administration announced on Wednesday it would distribute the literature as part of their efforts to keep more asylum seekers from coming to the city, which is currently housing and feeding more than 60,000 asylum seekers. Deputy mayor for Health and Human Services Ana Williams Isom showed the updated flyers during a City Council meeting, and said they would be used to combat 'misinformation' coming from social media or human traffickers about migrant services in the city. 'We'll be distributing these flyers at our shelters and intake centers in New York City, as well as through NGOs and nonprofits across the country,' she told the meeting. 'We know that there are people in our shelters that are telling their family members to come to New York City and that they'll get housing ... that has never been the case, but we want to make sure we're being clear with people that New York City is out of space.' One of the messages on the flyers reads: 'NYC is one of the most expensive cities in the world; you are better off going to a more affordable city.' Deputy mayor for Health and Human Services Ana Williams Isom showed the updated flyers during a City Council meeting on Wednesday The city had already distributed similar flyers in July to discourage asylum seekers at the border, but the updated message is much more blunt The city had already distributed similar flyers in July to discourage asylum seekers at the border, but the updated message is much more blunt, with warnings such as 'New York Citys resources have been exhausted,' 'You will not be placed in a hotel,' and 'NYC cannot help you obtain a work permit, and you will not be able to easily find work.' It's not an accurate message - while Adams has been trying to get the Right to Shelter police suspended as he deals with migrant influx, the law is still in place, which means the city must provide shelter to anyone who asks for it, As the city ran out of space, landmarks like The Roosevelt Hotel have been turned into emergency shelters. NYC is currently paying hotels an average cost of $185 per day per room, and spending about $385 a night per migrant family that needs housing and feeding. According to Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, asylum seekers are costing the city roughly $10 million every day. Adams has said the crisis will cost the city $12billion over three years. Both the city and state governments first welcomed asylum seekers sent to northern sanctuary cities by Republican governors fed up with that they say are Democrat's open-arm immigration policies. Mayor Adams and governor Kathy Hochul first said they were proud to lead the Right to Shelter city, quoting the Statue of Liberty's message about taking in the 'poor, tired and hungry.' But over 100,000 arrivals later, both Adams and Hochul have repeatedly told asylum seekers there is no space for them in New York. Since July, Adams has been telling migrants the city is at capacity, and warned that if the situation continues to escalate without federal help, the crisis would 'destroy' the city. As the city ran out of space, landmarks like The Roosevelt Hotel have been turned into emergency shelters New York City's migrant crisis is expected to cost the city $4.7billion this year. Above is a list of some of the landmarks that have been turned into emergency shelters as officials struggle to house nearly 60,000 migrants in the city's care Last week, Hochul repeated the claim that asylum seekers would not be offered housing: 'We have to get the word out, that when you come to New York, you're not going to have more hotel rooms, we don't have capacity,' shel said on CNN. 'So we have to also message properly that we're at a limit - if you're going to leave your country, go somewhere else.' However, the city secretly extended its contracts with the over 100 hotels being used as emergency shelters, and is planning on spending a staggering extra $1billion on hotel rooms for immigrants for three more years. The city's contract, which was supposed to end this year, will now end in August 2026 and cost a total $1.365 billion - almost five times the original price tag of $237 million. The new cost does not include other facilities turned into shelters such as the tent shelters set up in the McCarren Recreation Center in Queens or the Island Shores Assisted Living in Staten Island. Mayor Eric Adams said on September 9 that spending would be slashed by 15 percent through next spring to cope with the influx of 116,000 migrants in 2023, with 60,000 of the desperate people being housed in the city. Adams - who is up for re-election in 2025 - told city agencies that they would each need to cut spending by 5 percent by November at the latest. There will then be another 5 percent slash in January and a final hack down in April. Meanwhile, a record number of migrants continues crossing the US-Mexico border every day, and many have indeed heard that NYC will take care of them. The Roosevelt Hotel (pictured), Paul Hotel and Paramount Hotel are among the hotels designated for housing migrants in Manhattan Venezuelan migrant Melvin Pinto, 30, who has been housed at The Roosevelt Hotel with his family, told DailyMail.com he decided to board a bus from Texas to New York City because of the support the city offers migrants. Honestly its because of the support they give us we dont have relatives here,' Pinto said. 'We're not lying about needing asylum, we're running from all the craziness in Venezuela, - and it's not just hunger, it's armed groups and corrupt police if there's no opportunity[at home] we're simply going to leave. The Big Apple has taken in more than double the amount of migrants than the next most-popular cities. Adams has pleaded for state and federal aid as it is estimated the migrant crisis will cost the city $12billion over the next three years. Houston was listed as the destination for 15,416 people, while 15,329 documented that they were heading to Los Angeles County and 11,081 made their way to Miami-Dade County since May. Despite mayor Adams' cries for help from the state and federal government, the city has not received aid to cover the extra costs, so the $4.7billion would come from the city's budget. That amount is equal to the budgets for the city's sanitation, fire and parks departments combined. Adams has warned that the city's services will be affected by the incredible additional expenses on the budget. He has previously stated the city is planning on cutting services such as library hours, meals for senior citizens, and free, full-day care for three-year-olds. A Tennessee dad was shocked to find a copperhead snake had crawled into his baby's stroller. Autumn Maidlow shared a video of her shaken-up husband Tyler, who had just taken their nine-month-old daughter Ava Grace on a walk before the horrific discovery. He explained how the snake was coiled up on the edge of the stroller, then struck at him as he walked by. The video showed the snake disturbingly squirming around the baby's blanket as the couple watch in horror. Fortunately, little Ava Grace was not in the stroller at the time A Tennessee couple were left disturbed after a copperhead snake tried to attack the husband as it was tucked up in their baby's stroller after sneaking into the garage Tyler Maidlow had taken his nine-month-old daughter on a walk shortly before he found the venomous creature cuddled up in the stroller Tyler handled their unexpected visitor by killing it with a shovel. His wife told FOX 17 News: 'My husband went for a walk with our baby in the wagon and left the garage open.' That was when the snake had slithered into their property. After he returned from the walk, he went back into their garage to get something from the car and was faced with the poisonous snake. Maidlow said: 'He walked past the wagon, and when he walked back in, he noticed the snake on the ledge of the wagon, and right when he looked at it, it struck at him, and he jumped back and hit my car.' The couple were shaken-up after the incident - but were thankful that they'd found the snake before putting their baby girl in the stroller for her next outing. The couple shared a picture of the copperhead in the stroller, which showed the creature disturbingly cuddled up with her doll and blanket. The snake intruder was a baby copperhead - which are named for the copper-like color of their heads. The couple were terrified but thankful they discovered the snake before putting their baby girl in the stroller for another walk The snake was a copperhead snake - a venomous creature which can inflict extremely painful bites on its victims The scaly animals have distinct bright yellow or green marks on their tail - which marks the danger of their poisonous venom. Mid-August to mid-October is known as baby copperhead snake season and their varied habitat make them a widespread danger. The creatures can live in forested or rocky areas, near bodies of water or in the suburbs in backyards. Copperhead bites are venomous but rarely fatal and usually happen below the ankle or on the hand. However, they are extremely painful and can cause nausea and vomiting A 16-year-old girl is in critical condition and her father recovering after a lightning strike in Florida. Baylee Holbrook and her father were hunting in Putnam County when a bolt struck a tree which then fell on the duo, local law enforcement said. 'The father lost consciousness and when he awoke discovered the 16-year-old not breathing,' the Putnam County Sheriff's said in a statement. The freak lightning then redirected and hit the duo according to local media reports. Florida teen Baylee Holbrook (right) and her father (left) were out hunting on Tuesday when the lighting strike occurred The 16-year-olds's father lost consciousness and when he woke up, he found her not breathing Holbrook's father lost consciousness and when he woke up, he found her not breathing. He quickly called 911 and performed CPR on his daughter until deputies and first responders arrived. Holbrook was transported to the HCA Florida Putnam Hospital and taken to a trauma center. The sheriff's office said she is currently listed in critical condition. Holbrook's classmates came together Wednesday morning to pray for the Palatka Junior-Senior High School student's recovery. The community came together later that night for a vigil in her honor her at the school gym. 'She cares so much about everyone else. She has a heart for her friends, people she loves, people she comes in contact with she has a heart for people in general,' the family's spokesperson Willie McKinnon said to WOKV. Holbrook was taken to the hospital where she remains in critical condition The teenager is a varsity cheerleader and the team will honor her by wearing her favorite color, green, ribbons and bows in their game on Friday Holbrook's friends described her as a pillar of the community with a smile that brighten up every room. 'She's hilarious, she always comes on with a smile on her face she could be battling the worst day, but she comes with a smile on her face,' Kaitlyn Sanders said. 'It's like a brother-sister relationship, we hunt fish all sorts of things like that,' her cousin said. 'She's a fighter and I know she will stay in this and I love you Baylee.' McKinnon shared a message from her parents: 'Please ask God to do what he can only do and that's perform a miracle.' Holbrook is a varsity cheerleader and the team will honor her by wearing her favorite color, green, ribbons and bows in their game on Friday. Holbrook's classmates came together around the Palatka Junior-Senior High School to pray for her recovery Wednesday evening the community held a vigil for the 16-year-old. A spokesperson for the family asked people to pray for her recovery The sheriff's office said there had been an increase in lightning strikes in the area over the past two days and warned the community of the upcoming forecast. Fox Weather said severe weather has been reported across the sunshine state due to a stalled out front to the north that allowed numerous showers and storms to develop up and down the Florida Peninsula. They forecasted thunderstorms will slam the state into the weekend with most parts of the state getting at least 2 inches of rain through Saturday. There are about 40 million lightning strikes which hit the ground in the United States each year, yet the odds of actually being struck in any given 12 months are less than one in a million, according to CDC. Survivors described being left with ringing in their ears, PTSD, severe burns, mental health issues, vision impairments, heart palpitations and more. President Joe Biden on Thursday will double down on defending democracy in a major speech that will set up his counter argument to Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential campaign. And it will take place in the homestate of the late Senator John McCain, a Republican who was one of Trump's fiercest critics. It comes after Trump targeted the president repeatedly in his speech to blue-collar workers in Michigan Wednesday night where he called Biden a 'wretched old vulture' and a 'rotten politician.' It also follows the second GOP primary debate, which devolved into bickering and in-fighting among the Republican presidential contenders. The next presidential contest is increasingly looking like a rematch between Biden and Trump. The former president leads in polls for the GOP nomination by double digits. And both men have focused their arguments at each other as they look to rally their base and court swing voters. Biden, 80, will speak at a moment of political uncertainty for himself. He continues to face question about his age as some Democrats have mulled a primary challenge. And, on Thursday, House Republicans are holding their first impeachment inquiry into allegations Biden's family benefited from his son Hunter's foreign business deals. John McCain and Joe Biden together in 2017 at Independence Hall in Philadelphia In his remarks, Biden announce the creation of a library in honor of McCain and he will again call for the protection of democracy - a central point of his 2020 candidacy that he will carry into the next election. But Biden will take it a step farther and demand 'loyalty to the U.S. Constitution' - a call that comes as the clock ticks toward a government shutdown amid Republican infighting on Capitol Hill. The president 'will focus on the importance of America's institutions in preserving our democracy and the need for constant loyalty to the U.S. Constitution,' a White House official said. Trump will cast a shadow over the remarks even if Biden doesn't mention him by name. The president will call out his MAGA supporters. 'There is an extremist movement that does not share the basic beliefs of our democracy. The MAGA Movement,' Biden will say, according to excerpts released by the White House. 'Not every Republican not even the majority of Republicans adhere to the extremist MAGA ideology,' he will add. 'I know because I've been able to work with Republicans my whole career. But there is no question that today's Republican Party is driven and intimidated by MAGA extremists. Their extreme agenda, if carried out, would fundamentally alter the institutions of American democracy as we know it.' McCain, the late Republican senator from Arizona, was one of Trump's fiercest critics. And Biden has previously accused Trump of thwarty democracy with his attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. 'Protecting democracy,' the White House official said, 'continues to be the central cause of Joe Biden's presidency.' Donald Trump repeatedly targeted Joe Biden in a speech to blue-collar voters in Michigan Cindy McCain accepts the Medal of Honor from President Joe Biden awarded to John McCain at the White House in July 2022 President Joe Biden visits John Sidney McCain III Memorial in Hanoi, Vietnam Biden will also honor McCain's legacy for bipartianship, an emphasis that comes as the government faces a shutdown this weekend as House Republicans remained deadlocked on how to pass a federal budget. The backdrop of the remarks will be Arizona State University, which houses the McCain Institute. Arizona has been a hot bed of political conspiracy theories - including a weeks long recount after the 2020 election that didn't show the voter fraud that Trump allies claimed happen. Trump continues to spread his false claim he won the last presidential race. He faces federal charges in Washington D.C. and state charges in Georgia related to efforts by him and his allies to overturn the 2020 results. Biden won Arizona in 2020, a victory that handed him the presidency. He was the second Democrat to win the state in a presidential election since World War II. Cindy McCain, who endorsed Biden over Trump in the last White House contest, will be at the president's side when he speaks on Thursday afternoon. 'President Biden has been a long-time friend, tough political opponent and strong leader. All traits that my husband, John, also possessed,' she said in a statement on Thursday. Biden has given three major speeches defending democracy - on the anniversary of the January 6th insurrection at the Capitol, at Independence Hall in Philadelphia and in the days before the 2022 midterm election. He and McCain were close friends. The two served together in the Senate for more than two decades. Biden spoke at McCain's memorial service in Arizona in 2018. McCain died of the same cancer that killed Biden's eldest son Beau. The McCain family made it clear to Trump, who was president at the time, to stay away from the senator's funeral. President Joe Biden arrived in Arizona on Wednesday night Cindy McCain, with sons James (left) and Jack (right) at Joh McCain's funeral in August 2018 In his remarks, Biden will announce funding from the American Rescue Plan will be directed toward creating the McCain library in partnership with the McCain Institute and Arizona State University. Arizona was one of the states central to Trump's false claim he was the true winner of the 2020 election. In the aftermath of that contest, Republican state lawmakers used their subpoena power to get ballots and vote-counting machines from Maricopa County, then hired Trump supporters to review them. The recount was widely mocked as the former president's allies looked for - and failed to find - evidence of fraud. Additionally, Kari Lake, the GOP gubernatorial candidate, never conceded her loss to now Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs. Lake is preparing to run for Senate in Arizona next year. Hobbs will be with Biden on Thursday when he gives his remarks. Singaporean airmen seem to get a little carried away while having fun over the skies of Western Australia on Thursday. Keen plane spotters noticed on flight radars that a Pilatus PC-21 training aircraft appeared to fly a route that closely resembled a penis and testicles. Flight radars picked up the outline above Bullsbrook, 41km north of Perth, on Thursday afternoon. The plane took off from RAAF Base Pearce at 12.25pm and returned at 1.28pm. Two Singaporean squadrons, the No 130 and the No 130 trainer, are stationed at the base. The crude flightpath was picked up on flight tracking website Flightradar24. A penis outline including testicles was drawn in the skies above Western Australia by a Singapore Air Force plane A Pilatus PC-21 training aircraft (model pictured) took off from RAAF Base Pearce at 12:25pm and returned at 1:28pm after drawing the X-rated illustration Singapore signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Australian government in 1993 which was valid for 25 years. This document allows Singapore to operate its RSAF pilot training school program in Australia, as the city-state has a limited amount of airspace. Daily Mail Australia has contacted the Singaporean Embassy for comment. Gypsy Rose Blanchard has been granted parole after being jailed for ten years for murdering her mother. The 32-year-old pleaded guilty to the second-degree murder of Clauddine 'Dee Dee' Blanchard in 2016, with the case garnering national attention. Clauddine convinced her daughter that she was terminally ill, with Blanchard's lawyers saying she was 'abused' by her mother as part of an elaborate fraud scheme. Missouri's Department of Corrections has confirmed that she will be released on December 28 - after serving just seven years. She was handed a ten-year sentence for plotting to kill her mother, while her accomplice Nicholas Godejohn was given a life sentence. Gypsy Rose Blanchard, 32, pleaded guilty to the murder of Clauddine 'Dee Dee' Blanchard in 2016, with the case garnering national attention Clauddine, who suffered from Munchausen by proxy syndrome, had led everyone to believe that her daughter was a terminally ill teenager with the mind of a seven-year-old Godejohn was convicted of first-degree murder for stabbing Clauddine, with a judge earlier this year refusing to vacate the conviction. He had been appealing to get a new trial on the grounds that he had 'poor representation' for his 2018 conviction. Blanchard is being released after serving 85 percent of her sentence, as required by state law, and will be given credit for the time she spent in jail before her plea. She found love in prison, getting engaged in 2019 to a pen pal who started writing her after her story was the subject of a HBO documentary - Mommy Dead and Dearest - which aired in 2017. Joey King also starred at Blanchard in a Hulu mini-series called The Act, which aired in 2019. Photos of Blanchard posing with her fiance, Ken, and family were obtained by E! News in 2019 In one photo Blanchard is seen holding hands with Ken alongside her father, Rod Blanchard and her stepmother Kristy. Clauddine was found stabbed to death in her bed at her home in Springfield, Missouri, in June 2015. She was handed a ten-year sentence for plotting to kill her mother, while her accomplice Nicholas Godejohn (right) was given a life sentence. Clauddine even made her daughter shave her head so it appeared as if she lost her hair through chemotherapy. Gypsy is pictured above wearing a wig Blanchard (left) met Nicholas Godejohn (right) on ChristianDatingForFree.com and started an online relationship for two years Gypsy Rose Blanchard's pen pal fiance, Ken (right, with Gypsy), has been pictured for the first time since the couple announced their engagement in April She suffered from Munchausen by proxy syndrome, and convinced everyone that Blanchard was terminally ill. As part of the scheme, she said the then-teenager had the mind of a seven-year-old who suffered from muscular dystrophy, leukemia and other ailments. Blanchard shocked the world after she walked into her first court hearing without assistance. All who knew her believed that she was wheelchair-bound, with her mother convincing health professionals of her ailments. Clauddine moved to Springfield when Blanchard was a child, claiming they had fled from Hurricane Katrina. The two lived in a home built by Habitat for Humanity, and Clauddine was a full-time caretaker for Blanchard, claiming the girl suffered from ailments including chromosomal defects, epilepsy, sleep apnea, leukemia, and severe asthma. She even made her daughter shave her head so it appeared as though she lost her hair through chemotherapy. Her ruse fooled even doctors, who doled out prescriptions and performed surgeries on Blanchard. The mother also accepted financial donations and the two went on charity-funded trips to Disney World. She had barred her daughter from attending school after kindergarten. Blanchard shocked the world after she walked into her first court hearing without assistance Blanchard's story was currently the inspiration for Hulu's latest television series, The Act, in which she is played by Joey King (above) Blanchard - whose story is the subject of Hulu's The Act - is currently serving a 10-year prison sentence after she admitted to planning her mother's murder Clauddine was found stabbed to death in her bed at her home in Springfield, Missouri, in June 2015 Blanchard eventually met Nicholas Godejohn on ChristianDatingForFree.com and started an online relationship for two years. When she opened up to her boyfriend about her mother's behavior, they came up with a plot to murder Clauddine so they could be together. Godejohn slipped into the house and allegedly stabbed Clauddine while Blanchard hid in the bathroom. The couple then took 'several thousand dollars' from a safe in the home and spent some time in Springfield following her death. Surveillance footage at local businesses showed Gypsy wearing different disguises and walking on her own before they took a bus 565 miles to Wisconsin. A shocking Facebook status from Clauddine and Gypsy's shared account on June 14, 2015, read: 'That B**** is dead', which prompted alarmed neighbors to call police. A second, more disturbing post, read: 'I - SLASHED THAT **** AND RAPED HER SWEET INNOCENT DAUGHTER. ..HER SCREAM WAS SOOOO LOUD LOL.' The Facebook posts were traced to Godejohn's house in Big Bend, Wisconsin, and the two were arrested on June 16, 2015. The mother of a 15-year-old girl stabbed to death in Croydon is an NHS children's nurse who had saved to send her daughter to a top private school to fulfill her dream of becoming a lawyer. Elianne Andam, a pupil at the Old Palace of John Whitgift school, was attacked at 8.30am yesterday while she made her way to school. She had got off the number 60 bus to step in to protect a friend. Her aunt, Marian, said the schoolgirl's mother had been paying for her daughter to go to the leading independent school so she could go on to have a 'bright future'. Speaking at her sister's home in Croydon, Marian told MailOnline: 'You just can't comprehend the heartbreak of the last 24 hours, how Elianne went to school and never came home. 'She wanted to be a lawyer, she went to private school paid for by my sister and had a great future ahead of her. She was a lovely girl, she loved doing her hair, had beautiful natural hair, and she really loved gymnastics. 'We're a big family and we are all here for our sister, to support her. This has left us absolutely devastated. My sister is not feeling good, this only happened yesterday. It hasn't sunk in yet, it's a tragedy.' Elianne Andam, a pupil at the Old Palace of John Whitgift school, was attacked at 8.30am yesterday while she made her way to school Aspiring lawyer Elianne (left) was described as a 'beautiful' girl with a 'great future' ahead of her by her aunt Marian (right) Police officers arrive to lay flowers at the spot where Elianne died in Croydon, South London A large number of floral tributes have been left at the scene by police officers (pictured) and members of the public Police officers laying flowers at the scene and taking a moment to reflect Elianne's relatives were called to the scene of her stabbing but, tragically, she died before they could say goodbye. Today, a statement issued by the family described 'beautiful' Elianne as the 'light of our lives'. 'She was bright and funny, with many friends who all adored her,' it said. 'She was only 15, and had her whole life ahead of her, with hopes and dreams for the future. 'All those dreams have now been shattered. Our lives have fallen apart, along with that of our wider family.' Today, police officers, including those who rushed to try and save her life, have laid flowers at the scene. Officers appeared distressed as they put the flowers down, before observing a silence. A row spilt out of the number 60 bus outside the Whitgift Shopping Centre close to East Croydon station yesterday morning. A teenage boy dressed in black stabbed the schoolgirl in the neck and chest with a 'sword-like' zombie knife when she stood in his way after her friend rejected his flowers and love letter before he was arrested on a tram an hour later. A bus driver and passers-by battled to save her. But Elianne died on the pavement just minutes after the attack - less than a mile from her 20,000-a-year elite independent school. James Watkins, of Croydon crime prevention group Mainzworld, said the teenager's family rushed to the scene but she had already died. 'They were unable to say goodbye,' he said. Police forensics put a rose in an evidence tube. The flowers were said to have been carried by the killer, along with a zombie knife the size of a small sword Cards left for Elianne at the scene of the stabbing yesterday - less than a mile from the school gates The victim was a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift School in Croydon A mother who had just dropped her children at school witnessed the scene moments after the attack. The woman, from Streatham in south London, said she saw police officers take aside a bus driver who 'looked like he was almost holding' the 15-year-old victim. She said: 'I was driving past when I noticed that somebody was lying down on the floor. 'I drove round, parked up and tried to get as close as I could. Two young girls were saying it was a young lady and she had been stabbed in the neck. 'I haven't really slept properly, because I still have that image of her lying there.' More than 40 bunches of flowers have been laid close to where the 15-year-old was stabbed to death. One card said: 'Rest in peace angel condolences to your family at this very sad time.' Another said: 'Rest in peace little princess so sad your life is taken away at your prime. You have touched my soul.' Filomena Merola laid flowers by the police tape on Thursday morning. The 57-year-old, who grew up in Croydon, said: 'That young girl could not even go to school without being cut down. 'We all have young teenagers in our lives, in our families. It has just struck a chord.' A youth worker said he understood the boy tried to give a bouquet of flowers to his former girlfriend on the bus but tensions flared when they stepped off the red double-decker, which was packed with commuters and other schoolchildren. The friend is said to have rejected the flowers and had also tried to return a bag of possessions following the break-up. The victim stepped in to protect her and was stabbed in the neck by the teen 'wearing all black'. Flowers at the murder scene in Croydon today as a 17-year-old boy remains in custody Mourners lay flowers and tributes to the schoolgirl in a crime described by police as 'every parent's nightmare' Forensic scientists were seen collecting blood stained red roses, which the killer was allegedly trying to give to her friend Yesterday, forensics officers were seen removing a handwritten love note from the scene Chevanice Thomas's friend witnessed the girl being attacked. She said: 'He gave her the flowers and she threw them away. Her friends all dispersed when she went down. After that, the boy apparently stabbed her, blood gushing out and the police put pressure on it. She died on the spot.' The suspect, whose weapon was described as being 'as big as a sword', then reportedly fled the scene, chased by brave passengers who had also been on the bus. An hour after the attack, officers arrested the 17-year-old boy five miles away on a tram in New Addington at 9.45am. Metropolitan Police Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain said police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident. Former Met Chief Supt Simon Ovens said: 'Police have got to get to grips with young people carrying knives. 'There has been a huge drop in stop-and-search in the last ten years. Police are scared of stopping young people in the street because of the risk of complaints. 'Youngsters are therefore prepared to carry knives because they know the chance of being found with a weapon is so low. 'As well as carrying knives they are prepared to use them and never think about the consequences for their victim or themselves.' Security worker Victor Asare described the knife as 'black, thin and about a foot long'. He said: 'A lot of people came, everyone came off the bus. [The suspect] ran away. Everybody was crying and screaming. The girl was on the floor. 'We tried to catch him and a lot of people tried to save the girl. I was so shocked, I was shaken. It's somebody's daughter. 'The boy wore a black blazer, the girl wore green. It looked like the girl didn't want the boy to come closer. 'I finished work but couldn't sleep, so came back, I wanted to see if the girl was OK.' Anthony King, chairman of the My Ends project said: 'They were heading to school on the bus. All of them were scheduled to be at school by quarter to nine. 'Their school is ten minutes away from here and sadly the young lady didn't make it.' The bus driver and passengers desperately tried to save the young girl, as another schoolgirl reportedly screamed 'that's my best friend', as she tried to push through to see Elianne. Forensic scientists at the scene yesterday were seen collecting blood stained red roses and a love note which read: 'I love you so so much and I [have] never met someone with a better smile and better eyes than what you have. Your [sic] special girl... princess.' The young girl died at the scene after being stabbed on her way to school Dozens of floral tributes and cards have been laid at the scene near the girl's school Witnesses said the boy had tried to give Elianne's friend flowers but she replied that she 'didn't want to go out with him any more' One woman who laid flowers said: 'We all have young teenagers in our lives, in our families. It has just struck a chord.' The father of a schoolfriend said: 'My daughter is friends with the girls. She's devastated about what happened. It's horrible.' A mother of two, who wanted to be named only as Bridget, said: 'I saw them resuscitating her. The driver was holding her, and a lady. The emergency services were already here.' She said two other schoolgirls, believed to be the victim's friends, were trying to get through the police cordon but were held back. Michael Fyffe, who witnessed the attack, told Sky News: 'There were loads of people who had just come off the bus and then I think two of the girl's friends came out and they were trying to rush over towards the body. 'So myself and a few of the other people tried to hold her back and just say, 'Look, let them try and help your friend', and she was just screaming, 'Is my friend dead? She's my best friend'.' Staff at the Leonardo Hotel on Wellesley Road, were among those at the scene. Beldine Kutima, who works there, told The Telegraph: 'One of our duty managers went to get the bus, but she came back in screaming and grabbing towels from the back room. 'She ran out there with bin bags and towels. She was crying and in shock.' One card wrote 'why?' before wishing condolences to the teenager's family Another read: 'Little princess. So sad your life was taken away at your prime. You have touched my soul' Forensic officers walk past the scene, which features several privacy screens A forensic investigator puts flowers into a container at the scene near the Whitgift shopping centre in Croydon A man delivers two bunches of flowers to the scene where the girl was killed yesterday Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley at the scene in Croydon yesterday afternoon Mr Watkins said: 'It's disgusting, when we look at these children being killed that are from the borough it hurts you in the heart. These could be our kids, it's devastating.' Tributes have poured in for the 'jovial' and 'much loved' teen who had a 'bright future ahead of her' - expected to pass all her GCSEs later this school year. A spokesman for the Old Palace of John Whitgift School said: 'We are deeply shocked by the senseless and tragic death of our much-loved and valued friend and pupil. 'It will take some time for the Old Palace community to come to terms with this terrible news, and we will offer support to our pupils as we try to do so. 'Above all, we send our love and deepest sympathies to the girl's family at this unimaginably distressing time. Speaking to journalists yesterday afternoon, Chief Superintendent Brittain said officers arrived within two minutes of being called and gave the suspect's age as 17 Tributes to Sir Michael Gambon have been paid by Harry Potter fans across the world following the star's death at the age of 82. A gentle giant of British theatre and film, Gambon was notable for his portrayal of Albus Dumbledore in six of the eight Harry Potter films. Following the death of Richard Harris, who played Dumbledore in the first two films, Gambon assumed the role for the third film in the series, Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban, which was released in 2004. After his family revealed that he passed away peacefully in hospital following a battle with pneumonia, Harry Potter fans have posted heartfelt tributes to Gambon. Posting a tribute to the actor on X, formerly known as Twitter, Harry Potter fan account @PotterheadPosts wrote: 'Raising our wands for Michael Gambon.' Gambon was adored by younger audiences for his portrayal of Albus Dumbledore in six of the eight Harry Potter films READ MORE: Sir Michael Gambon dies aged 82: Legendary stage and screen actor who starred as Dumbledore in Harry Potter passes away peacefully in hospital Advertisement Another fan added: 'Wands up for Sir Michael Gambon'. A third posted: 'Michael Gambon will live on in the hearts and the memories of every single person whose childhoods he lit up by his brilliant portrayal of Albus Dumbledore. 'You think the dead we loved truly ever leave us? You think we don't recall them more clearly in times of great trouble?'. A statement on behalf of his wife Lady Gambon and son Fergus Gambon, issued by publicist Clair Dobbs, said: 'We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon. 'Beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia. Michael was 82. 'We ask that you respect our privacy at this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love.' Speaking about playing the role of Dumbledore, which he did to such mesmeric effect, Gambon stated that he does not 'have to play anyone really.' He said: 'I just stick on a beard and play me, so it's no great feat. I never ease into a roleevery part I play is just a variant of my own personality. I'm not really a character actor at all...' Quoting Gambon's famous speech in Layer Cake, which saw him play the part of Eddie Temple, another user posted on X: 'You're born, you take s***. You get out in the world, you take more s***. You climb a little higher, you take less s***. 'Till one day you're up in the rarefied atmosphere and you've forgotten what shit even looks like. Welcome to the layer cake son. 'RIP Michael Gambon'. Oso, according to a merchant, was abandoned shortly after he was born, but locals look after him and make sure he is well fed The six-month-old pooch was seen running after migrants who crossed through an open area of the border where workers were carrying out repairs Tuesday Oso, a stray puppy from the Mexican border town of Tijuana, was returned by the U.S. Border Patrol to his caretakers on Wednesday A stray puppy's American dream is over after his Mexican border town caretakers asked U.S. Border Patrol agents for help bringing him back. Known among locals in Tijuana as 'Oso,' the pooch made headlines Tuesday when he was seen running with 10 migrants through the United States-Mexico border where construction workers were replacing a section of the steel barrier. The video showed seven migrants fleeing through a temporary chain-linked fenced that had fallen down, before an eighth migrant joined in as Oso trailed behind. Moments later, two other migrants could be seen following the group before they all turned themselves over to border agents in Imperial Beach in San Diego County. 'Oso,' a stray dog beloved by locals in Mexico, returned to the border town of Tijuana on Wednesday, a day after he was seen in a viral video crossing with 10 migrants through an open area of the United States-Mexico border. U.S. Border Patrol agents handed him over to one of the merchants in Tijuana who has cared for him since he was abandoned there six months ago Oso (circled) runs after migrants who crossed the United States-Mexico border before they turned themselves in to U.S. Border Patrol agents in San Diego County on Tuesday A border merchant, who is among the many locals who look after the abandoned dog, later approached agents near the border structure and asked if they could help him find Oso. The border officers located Oso and 'deported' him Wednesday. Paola, a woman who runs her own small business at Tijuana Beach, told TV Azteca Baja California the dog is about six months old and was abandoned at the beach shortly after he was born. Oso has quite a culinary taste, and dislikes dog croquettes - preferring chowing down on shrimps instead. She recalled that he was doing fine until he noticed the migrants rushing through the open border area in hopes of getting asylum from the U.S. government. 'A bunch of people passed and he went after all of them,' Paola said. Oso walks behind one of his handlers from the Mexican border city of Tijuana after U.S. Border Patrol agents turned him over Wednesday, a day after he was seen on video running with migrants through an area where construction workers were repairing a steel barrier A viral TikTok video posted Monday showed at least 10 migrants and a dog running through an open section of a steel border barrier that was under construction at the Tijuana-San Diego border Osos quick return to Tijuana drew wisecracks on social media. 'Ah poor Oso, the American dream lasted little,' one user on X wrote. Another user on the network joked Oso 'is just a coyote (smuggler) who just got them through.' Mexican border towns have been inundated by an influx of migrants in recent months, with U.S. Customs and Border Protection data released September 22 showing agents reported 2,206,039 encounters regarding unlawful entry between October 2022 to September 2023. By comparison, 2,378,944 encounters were reported in the fiscal year 2022, an increase from 1,734,686 the previous fiscal year and just 458,088 in all of 2021. The Mexican Commission for Refugee Aid last week said it expects to receive 150,000 asylum requests this year, eclipsing the record of 129,000 that they came across in 2021. Through August they had already received 100,000 - 25 percent above the same period in 2021. More than half of the requests were received by the agency at Mexico's shared border with Guatemala. A Dutch student has today slaughtered a mother and a daughter after shooting them in their own home and setting it on fire, before travelling to a nearby university and killing a teacher in a twin shooting that has shocked the Netherlands. Terrified students, patients and health workers ran for their lives out of the Erasmus Medical Centre, affiliated with Erasmus University, at around 2pm on Thursday in the port city of Rotterdam. Police have now revealed that the 32-year-old suspected shooter, who wore a bulletproof vest, killed a 39-year-old woman and her 14-year-old daughter in the first shooting at their home, before travelling to the university, where he was a student, using a motorcycle and killing a 42-year-old teacher in a second shooting. Rotterdam's chief prosecutor, Hugo Hillenaar said that the suspected shooter, who has not yet been named, was known to law enforcement as he was prosecuted and convicted for abusing his rabbit while drunk in 2021. He was reportedly given a 40-hour community service order for the crime. Police have not yet announced a motive for the deadly attack allegedly carried out by the man, who has only been identified as Fouad L. by Dutch media. When asked whether the suspect has previously been rejected from Erasmus' medical faculty, Rotterdam's mayor, Ahmed Aboutaleb, said that that was a scenario 'we are taking into account.' Terrified students were seen fleeing the university medical centre after it came under attack from a gunman Video showed a man being arrested by armed cops after they had stormed the building to see if the shooter was still inside Police launched a manhunt in the Netherlands after an attacker wearing military clothing opened fire Dutch media has since named the murdered teacher as 43-year-old Jurgen Damen, a GP and lecturer who worked at the university. He worked as a GP for the Katendrecht Health Center, run by the Zonboog foundation. The director of the Zonboog foundation, Rene Baljon, said: 'The impact is great, for his family, colleagues, but also for his patients. Jurgen was an amiable and committed general practitioner. He was also a trainer. 'Many people in Rotterdam know him. This is also a shock to general practitioner care across the region. We don't know what the perpetrator's motive is, but this is horrible.' It is understood that the mother and daughter, who were attacked in their home, lived near the suspected shooter. Erasmus Medical Centre has since reopened its doors for visitors, and said that it will begin readmitting patients from Friday. Meanwhile, Erasmus University has cancelled all its planned lessons on Friday and has offered counselling to its students. Police said that the shooter will appear before a magistrate on Friday, and will likely be arraigned 'on Monday or Tuesday.' In one video of the shooting, those fleeing could be heard screaming after a loud bang, while a blaze also broke out inside the building. Footage later showed a man being arrested by armed cops after they had stormed the building to see if the shooter, described as a tall man wearing combat clothing, was still inside. Three people have died in the attack that has shocked the Netherlands Witnesses to the incident were seen hugging and crying outside the medical faculty Several people who were at the scene of the attack have since publicly shared their experiences of the horrific incident unfolding. Eykha, a medical research biotechnician student at the university, said on X, formerly Twitter: 'Cried for hours. My hands are still shaking. It's the darkest day of my entire life.' Kaouther Mouheb, a PhD candidate at the medical faculty, said: 'After leaving the US for not feeling safe... I did not expect to witness such an incident at my work place in the Netherlands.' Meanwhile, Dr. Aleksandra Badura, an associate professor at the university, said: 'I never thought I'd have to worry about an active shooter in the Netherlands but here were are.' She confirmed that everyone in her lab was safely evacuated. Footage shared widely on social media showed scared students sprinting for their lives in Rotterdam Video purportedly showed a classroom on fire at the medical centre in Rotterdam. It is still reportedly burning The university hospital came under attack shortly after a shooting at a nearby home which police are also probing. Officials had earlier confirmed that at least three people were injured across the shootings in Rotterdam this afternoon. But in an updated statement at 4.30pm they said: 'The two shooting incidents in Rotterdam resulted in fatalities. We now first inform family and relatives. We will provide further explanation later.' The unnamed 32-year-old man was arrested under the hospital's helipad and police were investigating his possible involvement in both shootings. Officers said the shooter was carrying a handgun. Dutch media reported that the suspect was previously given a 40-hour community service order for getting drunk and kicking his rabbit, which a vet was forced to put out of its misery. He was also sent before a judge for allegedly shooting a pigeon through the chest, though he was acquitted for this due to a lack of evidence. He was also sent before a judge for allegedly kicking a dog, though it is not currently known if he was ever convicted for this. The alleged shooter killed the as-yet-unnamed mother in her own home, and shot her daughter, who later died Rotterdam's chief prosecutor said that the suspected shooter, who has not yet been fully named, was known to law enforcement Dutch cops are currently investigating the home that the mother and daughter were shot at While the mother is understood to have died at the scene, her 14-year-old daughter later died in hospital Police have set up an investigation site at the home of the dead mother and daughter The street has been cordoned off by police Cops were seen digging up soil in the surrounding area Dutch media were reporting that there were fires at both the house - where the blaze has been put out - and the university hospital, where flames are still burning. De Telegraaf reports that the suspect shot two people at a house on Heiman Dullaertplein in the west of the city. It's understood he then drove to the Erasmus MC, less than a mile away. It was here that a second shooting reportedly took place in a classroom. Several officers, including specialised arrest teams, have been pictured at the hospital which has been cordoned off. Armed police were pictured scouring the roof of the medical centre, while police helicopters hovered over the city. Witnesses described the chaotic scenes around the hospital, as helicopters buzzed overhead and police snipers took up positions on the hospital roof. 'First there was a shooting on the fourth floor. Four or five shots were fired. Then a Molotov cocktail was thrown into the education centre,' a medical student, who did not give his name, told local media. Another eyewitness told a public broadcaster: 'There was a lot of panic and screaming... I didn't hear any shots, just the panic and that's what I started to act on.' Footage shared on social media showed students sprinting through the corridors trying to escape the gunfire and flames. Armed Dutch cops swarmed the medical faculty at Erasmus University An arrest team was checking the Erasmus Medical Center to establish if the shooter was still in the building, police added Police officers direct bystanders away from the entrance to the hospital after it came under fire A patient is taken away from the medical centre in Rotterdam. The university has been cordoned off Medical staff evacuate the Erasmus MC Rotterdam which has been cordoned off by police Medical staff were forced to move patients out of the hospital while still bedbound One student told the Dutch daily: 'We just had to run away from the arrest team to behind the school. Something is not right.' Nigel Jansen, a 26-year-old intern held at gunpoint by armed police, recalled being told: 'Hands up, get out quickly!' He told AD: 'The panic was great. People were running and crying. We had received something, but it was unclear what was going on.' One elderly patient was pictured being evacuated out of the medical centre in a wheelchair as armed police swarmed the building which is home to Rotterdam's Erasmus University's faculty of medicine. Earlier, police said the gunman possibly left the scene on a motorcycle, but they later said an arrest team was checking the Erasmus Medical Centre to establish if he was still in the building. Figures from across the Netherlands have already begun expressing their sympathies for the victims and Rotterdam's residents. 'There is great dismay after the dramatic events in Rotterdam this afternoon,' outgoing Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on X, formerly Twitter. 'My thoughts go out to the victims of the violence, their loved ones and to all the people who have been in great fear. Many thanks to the people of the services for their actions and assistance on site,' he added. Netherlands' police officers gather near the entrance to The Erasmus University Medical Center (Erasmus MC) in Rotterdam on September 28, 2023 Police officers from the special intervention service at the Erasmus MC Rotterdam Several officers, including specialised arrest teams, have been pictured at the hospital which has been cordoned off Armed police were seeing gearing up outside the university Emergency services, including fire and rescue, armed police and ambulance services, are coordinating their efforts Healthcare Minister Ernst Kuipers said: 'Innocent victims were killed today in a place where everyone should feel safe. Attacked in a place where people are treated and doctors of the future are trained. It is difficult for us to comprehend.' The country's royal family have also shared tributes to the victims. King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima said in a statement: 'Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the victims of this afternoon's violent acts in Rotterdam.' In July, two people and a gunman were injured in a shooting at a summer carnival in Rotterdam. The gunman was shot by police several times after opening fire. There have also been scores of small explosions and at homes and businesses across Rotterdam this year, blamed on rival drug gangs. MailOnline has contacted Erasmus University for comment. Media watchdog Ofcom has launched a probe into GB News over Laurence Fox's sexist rant after receiving around 7,300 complaints. Fox was suspended on Wednesday after being slammed for saying 'Who would want to sh*g that?' in a series of sexist comments about a female political journalist, Ava Evans. Ofcom was hit with a barrage of complaints following Tuesday's episode of Dan Wootton Tonight, prompting its investigation. News of the probe comes as Fox admitted he 'could and should have dialled down the bar room banter' following his lewd on-air rant - as he revealed he's 'waiting for the chop' ahead of his disciplinary meeting tomorrow with GB News chiefs. Fox's remarks are the second most complained about moment on UK TV this year, behind Bridgerton star Adjoa Andoh comment the Buckingham Palace balcony was 'terribly white' during the King's coronation in May, which led to 8,000 complaints Ofcom is now investigating whether GB News broke the Broadcasting Code for standards by allowing Fox's outburst on air. Dame Melanie Dawes, Ofcom chief executive, said: 'Over the last few days there has been speculation and commentary about our role as the independent broadcast regulator. These are important issues and I wanted to be clear about our rules. Laurence Fox (right) spoke about Ava Evans during Dan Wootton (left) Tonight on Tuesday Ava Evans, political correspondent for news website Joe, on ITV's Good Morning Britain today Laurence today tweeted that he 'could and should have dialled down the bar room banter' after he was suspended for his comments made about Ms Evans 'Parliament sets objectives on how the broadcast sector should be regulated. We set and enforce rules to achieve these objectives. Contrary to some claims, these rules remain unchanged. 'They are designed to protect audiences from offensive and harmful material, and to uphold the integrity of broadcast news and current affairs programming, while always ensuring that freedom of expression is front and centre in every decision we take. This is highly valued by audiences and central to our democracy. UK's most complained about TV moments Piers Morgans comments on Meghan Markle, Good Morning Britain, 2021: 57,121 complaints Jade Goody and Shilpa Shetty, Celebrity Big Brother, 2007: 44,500 complaints The Jerry Springer musical, 2005: 55,000 complaints Ghostwatch leaving viewers traumatised, 1992: 30,000 complaints Jon Snows comments on a Brexit rally, Channel 4 News, 2019: 2,717 complaints Advertisement 'The decisions we take, always based on facts and evidence once a programme has aired, are vital if we are to protect our vibrant media landscape. We continue to apply and enforce these rules without fear or favour.' During Tuesday's episode of Dan Wootton Tonight, Fox mocked Ms Evans, political correspondent for news website Joe, and publicly humiliated her by posing the question: 'Who'd want to shag that?' His vile tirade came after Ms Evans spoke about men's mental health on BBC's Politics Live show. Today, as the media storm surrounding the scandal intensified, Fox admitted he 'could and should have dialled down the bar room banter'. The right-wing actor spoke out in response to controversial US journalist Megyn Kelly who told him she supported his actions. 'I listened to the whole segment. You were mad she so easily wrote off the epidemic of men's suicide, which she absolutely did,' she wrote. 'She sounded heartless. You were making the point of how unattractive it made her to you. You didn't use the Queen's English but what she said was far uglier.' Responding, Fox wrote: 'I could and should have dialled down the bar room banter, but I have lost male friends to suicide, and her dismissal of male mental health is very upsetting to anyone who has experienced such tragedy. We live. We learn.' Fox launched into an abusive rant against political journalist after she spoke about men's mental health and suicide on BBC's Politics Live show Fox wrote: 'I could and should have dialled down the bar room banter (he is pictured on Tuesday night's show on GB News) In another Tweet, Fox revealed he was 'waiting for the chop' ahead of disciplinary hearing with GB News executives on Friday In a separate lengthy tweet about the scandal, the former Lewis star later hinted he was expecting to be sacked by GB News. READ MORE: Journalist Ava Evans slams GB News for allowing suspended host Laurence Fox to make derogatory remarks about her on its channel as 'it's not acceptable for broadcasters to act like that' Advertisement Attacking the broadcaster and accusing other 'desperate presenters' of 'joining the pile on', a defiant Fox hailed himself the 'catalyst for the great takedown' of the station. Fox added: 'I still haven't heard a word from them, and am waiting for the chop on Friday at my disciplinary hearing. Such is life. I own my mistakes and take full responsibility for them.' But Fox's crass remarks sparked anger across the political divide, with the broadcaster suspending him as well as Dan Wootton, the presenter of the show. Caroline Nokes, the Commons Women and Equalities Committee chairman, said there was a 'really serious case to answer' and insisted GB News should be 'taken off air'. She also condemned a number of her Conservative colleagues for 'swanning off' to host shows on GB News, saying it was 'very odd' for MPs such as Lee Anderson and Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg to have presenting gigs while they have a 'day job to do'. Ms Nokes was highly critical of GB News for what she called 'blatantly misogynistic, outdated, hideous attitudes'. On Tuesday's show, Fox attacked Joe reporter Ms Evans by saying 'Who would want to sh*g that?' as he elicited laughs from Wootton. Speaking to BBC Newsnight, Ms Nokes urged Ofcom to investigate - something the regulator today confirmed it was doing. Caroline Nokes, the Commons Women and Equalities Committee chair, told the BBC's Newsnight that there is a 'really serious case to answer' following the Laurence Fox comments She said: 'I was appalled by a news channel broadcasting such blatantly misogynistic, outdated, hideous attitudes. GB News must not be cancelled over Laurence Fox row, says host Mark Dolan Mark Dolan on GB News last night GB News has learned a 'hard lesson' after 'offensive' comments were made on-air by Laurence Fox - but the channel must not be cancelled, a presenter has said. Covering the 9pm slot on GB News yesterday evening, Mark Dolan condemned Fox's 'offensive comments' about Ms Evans. He said: 'Whether Laurence should stay on air is not my decision and Dan's absence tonight is also beyond my control. There is an investigation ongoing, but the comments made by Laurence in my view were sexist, misogynistic and, unusually, in the frenzied climate of the so-called culture wars, have been condemned across the political spectrum from left and right.' But he went on to warn that GB News must not be cancelled in the wake of Fox's comments. 'Where possible, we seek to play the ball, not the man, or in this case, the woman,' Dolan said. 'We don't always achieve that. Unfortunately, this awful episode plays into the hands of our critics, the people who would love to see the back of GB News. That mustn't happen.' The presenter said the channel is 'rewriting the rulebook' on current affairs broadcasting and garnering a 'fast growing and incredibly loyal audience'. 'Whilst we're here for the many people in this country, who feel they do not have a voice, the truth is, we're here for everyone,' he continued. 'People are coming to us in their numbers across all political colours, because they want a different angle, a different approach and they want debate. They want a diversity of opinion and they want it done with wit and wisdom. 'Fiery and good humoured, but respectful and fair too, that is the GB News way. We didn't have that last night. In the end, a hard lesson has been learned. We have freedom of speech, but not freedom from the fallout.' Advertisement 'I think there is a really serious case to answer and I hope that Ofcom can conclude its investigations as swiftly as possible. I think it should be taken off air, it was entirely predictable that Laurence Fox was going to come out with a statement that was that offensive.' But she was also critical of her colleagues who have their own lucrative gigs presenting on GB News. 'I think it's a very odd relationship to be quite frank and I don't go on any of their shows,' she said. 'From my perspective if you're a Member of Parliament you have a day job to do, getting on with the work you have in the House of Commons and not swanning off, and in some cases several times a week, to present a show on a television channel.' Mr Anderson, the deputy Tory party chair, former Cabinet minister Sir Jacob are joined by Philip Davies and Esther McVey as Tory MPs presenting on GB News. Ofcom has previously found that an interview married presenters Ms McVey and Mr Davies did with Chancellor Jeremy Hunt on GB News breached impartiality rules. Sir Jacob's show is also under investigation for allegedly twice breaching the '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'. Also hitting out at GB News was former prime minister Gordon Brown, who said Fox and Wootton 'have got to be kept off air'. He said Ofcom should be given more 'teeth' and compared the incident to when Jonathan Ross and Russell Brand prank called Andrew Sachs about Brand's relationship with Sachs' granddaughter Georgina Baillie on BBC Radio 2 in October 2008. Mr Brown told the Sky News Politics Hub with Sophy Ridge: 'Well, I criticised Russell Brand and Jonathan Ross when similar remarks were made almost 15 years ago, and it led to changes in the way programmes were done at that time. 'But I think we've got to look very carefully at GB News and all these broadcast companies that are emerging, because we've got a far wider range of broadcasters and the system of regulation is not good enough to cope with it. 'So Ofcom needs to have more teeth to deal with standards, issues of standards, and of course you've got this amazing situation now, you've got internet, you've got television, you've got newspapers and you have a completely different system of regulation for each of them.' 'But everybody is influenced by all these social media at the same time, so I think you've got to standardise some of the regulation, and certainly you cannot allow people to appear on air and talk about women in the way that they are doing, without any propriety. Ava Evans tweeted a picture of her drinking a pint at the Bethnal Green Tavern in East London yesterday evening with the caption: 'Me reading your libellous tweets' It comes after Ava Evans made comments about men's mental health and suicide on the BBC's Politics Live on Monday, in which she dismissed calls for a dedicated minister on the issue 'These people have got to be kept off the air - this cannot be allowed. I'm not in favour of censorship, but you cannot have this fall in standards and allow it to continue.' Laurence Fox: From screen actor to founder of the Reclaim Party Actor Laurence Fox rose to fame through various acting roles and is most well-known for portraying DS James Hathaway in the long-running TV series Lewis, which came to an end in 2015. The actor, 45, has credits in films that include the 2001 production of Gosford Park, the 2007 TV movie A Room With A View and the recent 2022 film My Son Hunter, in which he plays the lead role of Hunter, the son of American president Joe Biden. Born into an acting dynasty, Fox is related to a slew of famous thespians, including his cousin Freddie Fox, who starred in the 2011 film The Three Musketeers and Netflix series The Crown, playing former prime minister Margaret Thatcher's son Mark. Laurence Fox married fellow thespian Billie Piper in 2007 and the pair split in 2016 Sister to Freddie and cousin to Laurence is Emilia Fox, known for her role as Dr Nikki Alexander in BBC TV series Silent Witness. The trio are grandchildren to actor and theatrical agent Robin Fox whose son James is father to Laurence and has starred in Downton Abbey, Sherlock Holmes, Midsomer Murders and New Tricks, among other TV series. Fox married fellow thespian and Doctor Who star Billie Piper in 2007 and the pair split in 2016. They have two sons together, Winston and Eugene. In 2020, Fox appeared on BBC Question Time and was involved in a debate over Meghan Markle, white male privilege and racism which led to the actor saying he would take a break from social media. Following his appearance, the actor founded political party the Reclaim Party in October 2020, and the website says he did so after his appearance led to him being 'cancelled' from his acting career. After he set up the Reclaim Party, Fox unsuccessfully stood for London mayor during the mayoral election of 2021. Fox appeared on BBC Question Time in 2020 and was in a debate over Meghan Markle, white male privilege and racism His manifesto included promises to deliver 'free travel on the Tubes and buses for six months' and 'tough New York style community policing to target petty crime'. According to the Reclaim Party website, the party exists 'for patriotism and believes hard work should be rewarded.' Reclaim is strongly associated with the 'culture wars' and Fox has previously expressed scepticism about the Covid vaccine and opposed lockdowns during the pandemic. Fox has been a presenter on GB News and according to the broadcaster's website he 'tackles the issues of the day' with a 'unique and outgoing style'. Advertisement Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan said Ofcom had to take its response to the 'next stage', and said both Fox and Wootton behaved in an 'unacceptable and disgraceful way' as she called on the regulator to act. 'Ofcom really do need to look at this. I was quite shocked and taken aback by the level of the comments made and the response of Dan on that show,' she told the Sky News Politics Hub. 'It was completely unacceptable. 'I'm glad that GB News took decisive action and suspended both of them quickly today, but there needs to be the next stage now and Ofcom really needs to be looking at this.' But the Tory MP said she would not 'boycott' the broadcaster, arguing it was is an 'isolated incident' and not 'a symptom of a broader problem at all'. She said GB News needs to learn 'big lessons' such as 'why was this ever viewed as acceptable in modern Britain', and investigate whether the conversation had been 'pre-agreed'. Ms Evans said she had received an apology from the broadcaster, but her direct messages on social media have been full of threats since the row. Wootton has apologised 'unreservedly' for a 'very unfortunate lapse in judgment' in a follow-up post to an earlier apology, which suggested he should have apologised for what was said during the broadcast. Ms Evans was interviewed about the incident on ITV's Good Morning Britain today, and also spoke about other Tory MPs appearing on GB News. She said: 'I think what's important is a lot of presenters and producers at the channel spoke publicly yesterday about how they don't align themselves with those views,' she said. 'But I didn't hear that from any elected members of parliament that sit on that channel. 'So if you're not going to say anything, and you're going to continue broadcasting on it, it's almost as if you've accepted it, or you're claiming to align with those views. 'You're saying that it's perfectly reasonable for someone to profess what Laurence Fox did that night.' Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer branded Fox's comments 'inappropriate and unacceptable' while Tory backbencher Mr Davies, who co-presents a show on the channel, said the 'disgraceful' remarks were 'completely unacceptable, unjustifiable and indefensible'. Labour shadow culture secretary Thangam Debbonaire wrote on X, formerly Twitter: 'Last night's woman hating on air has hit a new low. Should we (women) have to tell a broadcaster that on-air woman-hate is not OK?' And fellow Labour frontbencher Matthew Pennycook said: 'Ofcom must act to end this kind of odious behaviour whenever and wherever it takes place.' Labour MP Jess Phillips said on X: 'Ofcom must act, an act of bullying and hate. Regulators have got to actually try to stop this, but in my experience women are just expected to tolerate it with a shrug. The electoral commission, ofcom and others can no longer turn a blind eye.' And Labour MP Dawn Butler added: '@Ofcom it was a premeditated misogynistic attack on @AvaSantina. 'This isn't a new tactic, but we don't always have the evidence. There's no excuse not to act on this toxic, racist, misogynistic channel which isn't a news channel.' Labour MP Ellie Reeves was asked on Times Radio today whether she would appear on GB News - and she said that while she has done so in the past, in future she would 'have to see how [this issue] is dealt with'. Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf branded Fox a 'vile neanderthal'. Today a spokesperson for dmg media said: 'Following events this week, dmg media can confirm that Dan Woottons freelance column with MailOnline - which had already been paused - has now been terminated, along with his contract.' The crisis has seen tech billionaire Elon Musk plan a trip to the town Shocking new images show the Eagle Pass epicenter of the migrant crisis being hit by another huge influx of asylum seekers - as a leaked document suggests Border Patrol agents are too busy processing arrivals to guard the crossing. The Texas town of just 28,000 people has been inundated by migrants in recent days, with border crossings rising to around 8,000 a day in the week ending September 22, according to the Washington Office of Latin America. Throughout the month of August, upwards of 232,000 migrants made their way over the US-Mexico border. Eagle Pass Mayor Rolando Salinos declared a state of emergency over the crisis, but a document allegedly leaked by a Border Agent appears to show that the unprecedented number of arrivals is now making it impossible for them to effectively guard the crossing. The report was shared by DC Examiner reporter Anna Giaritelli on X, who claimed that 'all Border Patrol agents have pulled to other duties (mainly processing migrants) so not a single agent will be in the field.' Giaritelli added that the agent who shared the document is 'pretty pi**** off about this', a sentiment echoed by Elon Musk as he revealed this week he is travelling to Eagle pass to help grapple with the 'serious issue.' Migrants seen after crossing the Rio Grande river border from Piedras Negras, Mexico into the US on September 27, 2023 Upwards of 8,000 migrants have been crossing the border at Eagle Pass every day last week Stunning images have shown droves of migrants traversing difficult terrain and wading through the Rio Grande river on their way over the southern border Situation in Eagle Pass, Texas has not improved Tonight, all Border Patrol agents have pulled to other duties (mainly processing migrants) so not a single agent will be in the field Document shared with me by an agent, who for what its worth, is pretty pissed off about this pic.twitter.com/aGLP4gpOF8 Anna Giaritelli (@Anna_Giaritelli) September 28, 2023 According to the leaked document, which has not been independently verified by DailyMail.com, all Border Patrol agents in Eagle Pass are assigned to processing at various migrant centers. The memo adds that there should be nothing 'indicating any type of field deployment/ enforcement' at the border. The lack of any border patrol agents comes as officers struggle to cope with crossing numbers only matched by April 2023 levels, when pandemic-era immigration policy Title 42 ended. Harrowing images from the porous border show droves of migrants traversing difficult terrain and wading through the Rio Grande river. Families are seen clinging to each other, with some struggling to carry soaking wet bags of belongings across the water. After crossing from the Mexico side in Piedras Negras, the asylum seekers are met by law enforcement, including the National Guard, before they reach long lines of razor wire. Officers are seen helping people through the terrain, including lifting small children exhausted by the journey to safety, while many migrants are pictured queuing up as they wait to be processed. Throughout the month of August, upwards of 232,000 migrants crossed the US-Mexico border - and up to two million are estimated to have crossed this year Some migrants were seen struggling with soaking wet bags of belongings as they tried to cross the river, where they were met by military troops on the Texas side After making their way into the US, many migrants were seen queueing up as they waited to be processed by border agents Salinos' declaration of a state of emergency came as it is thought that 100,000 people waded through the Rio Grande and into the town last week, and he slammed President Biden this week for 'abandoning' his community. In the last 10 days, law enforcement in Eagle Pass have also arrested more than 17,000 illegal immigrants, according to the Washington Examiner. Shelters in border towns like Eagle Pass have been stretched well over capacity due to the thousands of crossings every day. As officials scramble for solutions, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has led the movement to bus migrants to northern states to share the burden of ineffective border policies while bringing the crisis to national attention. In New York, where over 100,000 migrants have poured into the city, Mayor Eric Adams admitted this month that the influx could 'destroy' the Big Apple. But Salinas took aim at such comments as he slammed Biden's response to the influx in Eagle Pass, saying on social media this week: 'We're not a city that has the resources of New York, Chicago, cities like that. 'You already see big cities already complaining that they're getting large amounts of undocumented immigrants. I mean, we're Eagle Pass. We only have limited resources, so this is not sustainable. 'As a mayor, what's disappointing is that we haven't heard from the president of the United States or the vice president of the United States... To this day, I haven't heard of a concrete plan of action to stop this from continuing to happen. Sometimes, we feel kind of abandoned here at the at the border here in Eagle Pass.' Many migrants, including young children, are the victims of elaborate multi-billion dollar human trafficking schemes that are run by drug cartels that funnel people over the border A border agent walked along lines of razor wire near the border in Eagle Pass, Texas A large percentage of the migrants are from Venezuela, which has been economically devastated in recent years while the nation's population plummets Elon Musk has announced he will go to Eagle Pass, Texas, later this week to observe the situation at the US-Mexico border With the situation at Eagle Pass continuing to deteriorate, tech billionaire Elon Musk - an outspoken critic of the migrant crisis - said this week he is readying to visit the border town. Musk, 52, said he had spoken to Texas Congressman Tony Gonzales, which led him to plan a visit 'to see what's going on for myself.' 'They are being overwhelmed by unprecedented numbers just hit an all-time high and still growing!' he said on his platform X, formerly Twitter. In a different post responding to a DailyMail.com video of chaos outside a migrant shelter in Staten Island, Musk said 'this is a severe crisis.' A large number of the refugees have moved from Venezuela amid the country's ongoing economic decline, with more than seven million residents leaving the nation of 29 million people as of February, reports The New York Times. While the vast majority of the seven million have opted for neighboring countries, many have made their way to the US. From 2015 to 2018, only around 100 Venezuelans were stopped annually at the border. From October 2021 to August 2022, that number stood at 150,000. Around two million migrants are thought to have crossed the US southern border in 2023 with many citing Biden's lax policies as a reason. Another 500,000 could cross by the end of the year. While Biden comes under mounting pressure to address issues at the border, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced recently that 800 more military service men and women would be sent to the border to aid the crisis joining the more than 2,500 National Guardsman who are already deployed. The huge influx of Venezuelan migrants led Biden to announce last week he was introducing speedy processing for more than 300,000 asylum seekers from the economically devastated nation. Biden indicated that the decision was made in hopes of easing pressure on the underfunded border officials as they are stretched thin. The meeting took place within the framework of the release of the OECD's first Economic Survey of Peru, in which the organization conducts an exhaustive review of the Peruvian economy. This is a step forward in the process of accession to the bloc of countries with the best economies in the world. "The joint presence of State ministers, at the meeting, shows the support from Peruvian authorities for the technical efforts that are being made by the sectors involved in the goal of Peru's accession to the OECD," the Cabinet chief remarked. Peru's participation in the Economic Survey is a milestone in this journey, as it constitutes a first economic review, from a comprehensive development approach. Ad-hoc recommendations, aimed at gearing the country towards an inclusive and sustainable development, will derive from this review. Each economy is reviewed about every two years. The Government of President Dina Boluarte has expressed its political willingness to continue making progress towards the achievement of this goal, coordinating multisector actions and implementing the required technical efforts. "We are aware that better practices will allow for an inclusive and sustainable growth. We want this visit to be fruitful and to address the problems, progress, and challenges facing Peru ahead of its accession to the OECD," the Prime Minister stated. For his part, Mathias Cormann, highlighted Peru's opportunities for the future. "I am pleased with Peru's constant development in the last year. Our visit here, in addition to discussing the economic review and the accession process, is also a vote of confidence," he said. It should be noted the Initial Memorandum, which reaffirms the Peruvian State's willingness to accessing the OECD, was delivered to Mathias Cormann in June this year in Paris, France (END) NDP/RMCH/RMB As proof of the Executive Branch's steadfast commitment to have Peru join the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Prime Minister Alberto Otarola and State Ministers held a meeting with the bloc's Secretary-General Mathias Cormann Publicado: 27/9/2023 Pictures of Justin Trudeau out in public on his trip to India disprove the diplomat's claim that the Canadian PM didn't leave his hotel room for two days after travelling on a plane 'full of cocaine'. Former Indian diplomat Deepak Vohra accused Justin Trudeau, 51, of hiding in his room for two days - but pictures show Canada's Prime Minister out and about multiple times over the two day period. Justin Trudeau arrived in New Delhi on Friday September 8 to attend the G20 Summit and posed for a picture outside of the plane - which was allegedly 'full of cocaine' - with his son Xavier, 16. The next day Trudeau was pictured with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi who welcomed the Canadian with a handshake upon his arrival at Bharat Mandapam - where the G20 conference was being held. The day after that he was pictured taking part in a wreath laying ceremony at Raj Ghat with Modi and Indonesia's President Joko Widodo. Trudeau was pictured waving alongside his 16-year-old son Xavier as they arrived in New Delhi for the G20 Summit on what an Indian diplomat has described as a cocaine-filled plane The next day Trudeau met with Indian PM Narendra Modi as they met at the G20 Summit - proving that the Canadian PM did not hide in his hotel room for days as Vohra suggested The following day the Canadian PM attended a wreath laying ceremony at Raj Ghat with Modi and Indonesia 's President Joko Widodo Trudeau was finally pictured at the end of his trip as he left New Delhi on September 12. His departure was delayed because of weather conditions and technical issues with his military aircraft. Vohra, a former Indian ambassador to Sudan said: 'When Justin Trudeau came to India for the G20 this month, his plane was full of cocaine. He did not come out of his room for two days.' In a statement to the Toronto Sun, Trudeau's office said: 'This (is) absolutely false and a troubling example of how disinformation can make its way into media reporting.' Vohra's remarks came after Trudeau alleged that Indian officials were responsible for the assassination of a Sikh activist in British Columbia. Surveillance of Indian diplomats in Canada sparked the claims that the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, 45, was a result of Indian government involvement. The allegations have caused an ongoing tit-for-tat between India and Canada. Nijjar was born in India and became a Canadian citizen in 2007 - he had been wanted by India for years before he was shot in June outside of the temple he led in a Vancouver suburb. Deepak Vohra, the Indian diplomat who made the allegations (pictured right), appeared on Zee News to accuse Trudeau Trudeau attended the G20 Summit in New Delhi along with other world leaders earlier in September 2023 Trudeau spoke on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly - which is when he acknowledged the complicated diplomatic situation. He said: 'The decision to share these allegations on the floor of the House of Commons was not done lightly,' he said. 'There is no question that India is a country of growing importance and a country that we need to continue to work with.' 'We are not looking to provoke or cause problems but we are unequivocal around the importance of the rule of law and unequivocal about the importance of protecting Canadians.' No evidence has been shared to support Trudeau's claims that there were 'credible allegations' on Indian involvement in the assassination. The claims have angered Indian officials who called the allegation 'absurd'. Vohra discussed Trudeau's bombshell allegations on a Zee News debate show with journalist Deepak Chaurasia. 'In his parliament address, he used the words credible allegations against India. How can allegations be credible? Either it can be credible or an allegation. I also have a credible rumour to make in this case that Trudeau is crazy. It is a credible rumor.' The diplomat then added that it was a 'credible rumor' that sniffer dogs found cocaine on the plane that Trudeau flew into India on. Vohra's allegation also comes after Trudeau had to publicly apologize after the Canadian Parliament recognized a man who fought alongside the Nazis in World War II. Trudeau said it's 'important to push back against Russian propaganda' after he was grilled about a Nazi being honored in the Canadian parliament. The ongoing tit-for-tat between Canada and India comes after the Canadian government accused India of being involved in the assassination of a Sikh man on Canadian soil Trudeau has also come under fire recently after Canadian Parliament recognized a man who fought alongside the Nazis in World War II The Prime Minister was questioned by reporters Monday after 98-year-old Yaroslav Hunka was hailed as a Ukrainian-Canadian war hero during President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to parliament on Friday. Trudeau admitted it was 'extremely upsetting this happened', blamed the Speaker of the house for the 'mistake' - but then launched into a message about 'Russian disinformation.' The Toronto Sun also reported that Vohra said: 'My wife saw him at the Delhi airport and said that Trudeau looked depressed and stressed. 'We don't know the reason. I don't know the reality, but social media and some 'credible rumors' suggest that his plane was full of cocaine. 'He has become lonely. He is now trying to show that he is a Canadian Rambo and nothing can go wrong in his presence. India has done the right thing by suspending visa services in Canada.' Frank has retained a lawyer and a friend says public opinion has taken a toll The husband of an Oklahoma teacher found dead inside a drainage tunnel has claimed they were in an open marriage and she was last seen going on a date with a man she met on Facebook. Makayla Fay Meave-Byers, 30, was found by her relative in a four-foot-deep drain just miles from home on September 20, days after supposedly leaving with a mystery six-foot-tall man described as a 'balding male with a dark-colored beard.' The kindergarten teacher's aide and mother-of-six, who was working to get a teaching certificate before her death, vanished after leaving her home in Macomb, a tiny town with a population of around 24 people, on September 15. Her husband Frank Byers reported her missing the next day, telling cops she never came home after leaving voluntarily with the man she met online, getting into a white Chevy extended cab pickup with tinted windows. Makayla's phone's last known ping was at her Macomb home, according to detectives. But suspicion has remained on Frank, after police say they found blood inside her home just days before her body was found, as reported by KOCO NEWS 5. Moreover, Makayla's father denied the couple had an open marriage and she went on a date, telling police Frank's claims 'weren't adding up.' Makayla Fay Meave-Byers, 30, went missing from her Macomb home on September 15 Her husband Frank Byers reported her missing the next day, telling cops she never came home after leaving voluntarily with the man she met online Her body was found just miles from her home, wrapped in a carpet and left in a drain The father claimed Makayla had recently asked for a divorce. She and Frank lived in two separate homes on the same property, per police documents. When detectives entered her home, they reportedly found blood on the floor and bed sheets, and broken glass and shell casings of a .22 caliber. Frank told police Makayla owned a .22 caliber, which was found near the husband's nightstand, where Frank said she kept it. Detectives said the weapon looked like it had recently been fired. He has retained an attorney, and a friend told News9 public opinion 'has taken a toll on him.' 'Hes experienced pure hatred from the community,' said family friend Annie Gonzales. When asked about the blood found at Makayla's home, Gonzales said she was told 'it was nothing more than a nose bleed.' Police have said they still don't have a suspect. Meave-Byers' cousin, who was not named, was the one to call 911 after making the grim discovery of the teacher's body on September 20. The body was found tucked into a culvert and was wrapped in what Pottawatomie County Undersheriff Travis Dinwiddie called waterlogged 'old pieces of carpet.' 'We were walking down all of the canals down closest to the water and we smelt something and so my friend got down there and found her,' the cousin told 911 operators shortly after discovering the body. 'She's inside there 100 percent.' Her husband claimed she was last seen with an unidentified man described as 'tall,' 'balding' and sporting a 'dark beard' Suspicion has remained on Frank, after police say they found blood inside her home just days before her body was found. He is pictured with Makayla Community members held a vigil outside a local high school where they lit candles and sang in her memory The medical examiner confirmed the identity as Meave-Byers on September 22. Although there weren't any obvious signs of trauma, Dinwiddie said foul play was 'absolutely' involved. Family members insisted that it was uncharacteristic for her to disappear and leave behind her two adopted children, four step-daughters and beloved dog. 'She's a great mother, it's all she cares about,' Andria Meave told KFOR. Friends and family held a vigil the night of September 23 in front of Lexington High School - and Frank was not allowed on the property due to the investigation. Attendees lit candles, sang and recalled fond memories of the teacher. A GoFundMe was created to help the family with funeral expenses. 'Makayla was born on July 15, 1993. She grew up with a devoted mama and older sister, and lots of other family members who loved her so very much,' the page read. 'With such a tragic and unexpected loss the family could use help with providing Makayla the memorial service she deserves.' Macomb Public Schools also released a statement honoring their late employee. 'Our hearts are heavy as we grieve this tragic loss of a beloved Macomb Public Schools educator and parent,' a Facebook post read. 'Makayla cared deeply for our students and families and she will be greatly missed. 'We offer our heartfelt condolences to Makayla's family, friends, students and all those impacted by this terrible loss.' Co-op has resorted to removing chocolates from their boxes and displaying empty packets in a bid to stop shoplifters. Dummy packets of Ferrero Rocher, empty jars of Nescafe, and multipacks of John West tuna caged in security cases have been snapped at one south London store. The supermarket retailer put some of its selected lines under lock and key to stop organised gangs from swiping products from shelves amid a rise in shoplifting. Other products in empty boxes include Lindt chocolates and Fairy liquid with a sign telling shops to ask a member of staff for the product. It comes after Waitrose revealed organised gangs are targeting stores along Tube routes, while Sainsbury's, Morrisons, and Aldi are searching shoppers using self service tills amid a rise in thefts. And Dunelm has locked up duvets and pillowcases in PIN-code protected cabinets. The Co-op has resorted to removing chocolates from their boxes and displaying empty packets in a bid to stop shoplifters An empty box of Ferrero Rocher on the shelf of a south London Co-op store Kate McCrae Graham, Director of Operations, Co-op, said: 'Crime in many communities is increasing, and it is known that repeat and prolific offenders and, local organised criminal gangs are driving serious incidents of brazen and violent theft in stores. READ MORE: The secret shoplifting getaway map: Waitrose boss reveals organised crime gangs are targeting Tube routes Advertisement 'It is an ongoing challenge for all retailers, and often a flashpoint for the unacceptable attacks and abuse towards my colleagues. 'Co-op continues to invest significantly in keeping colleagues and stores safe. This includes the latest CCTV; body-worn cameras, undercover guarding and, extending our use of dummy - anti-theft - display cases to deter the incidents of "bulk-shoplifting" or, "looting", as it has been described. 'This isn't a victim-less crime, as my store colleagues who have been verbally abused and had knives and syringes pulled on them can vouch for, but it is seemingly a consequence-less crime. 'While we are doing all we can, we also need the police to play their part as too often Forces fail to respond to desperate calls by our store teams and criminals operate in communities without any fear of consequences.' Last week, MailOnline revealed shoplifting gangs are targeting shops along Tube routes and road networks before stealing items to order. But Co-op said the problem wasn't restricted to around Tube stations for their stores. An empty jar of Nescafe. Shoppers are instructed to take the product to a staff member who will then give them the full item Co-op has put some of its selected lines under lock and key to stop organised gangs from swiping products from shelves Other products in empty boxes include Lindt chocolates and Fairy liquid with a sign telling shops to ask a member of staff for the product The move is designed to stop bulk-shoplifting and rising levels of crime in the city as looters Lucy Brown, director of security for the John Lewis Partnership, said the surge in shoplifting was due the rise of organised criminals rather than the cost of living crisis. READ MORE: Home furnishing giant Dunelm hides bedclothes in PIN-protected cabinets as England suffers rise in shoplifting Advertisement Retail thefts have risen by 27 per cent year on year across ten of the UK's largest cities - and were up by 68 per cent in some, the British Retail Consortium found. The trade body added that incidents of violence and abuse against retail staff have nearly doubled from more than 450 per day in 2019/2020 to more than 850 last year - with crimes including racial or sexual abuse, assault and threats with weapons. Ms Brown, who oversees security at both Waitrose and John Lewis, told MailOnline: 'Some shops are targeted every day, others several times a day. And we're fortunate because we're not the worst hit,' she said. 'We've seen a real increase post-Covid. We don't believe it's linked to the cost of living. You have people living chaotic lives with substance abuse who are stealing to fund their habits. 'Another major problem - which is new - are organised criminal gangs. They spend as much time shoplifting as we do on our normal jobs. They will target Tube routes, road networks and steal to order. 'There have been gangs operating across north London going from shop to shop and threatening teams with violence. Customers have found themselves under 'close inspection' following an increase in the number of bag checks at certain stores before leaving the premises. Pictures showed Dunelm storing its more expensive bedding away in giant glass cupboards, which need to be opened by a staff member 'The stuff they target tends to be whatever has the highest retail value on the black market. 'That includes alcohol in Waitrose, and in John Lewis portable tech and high-value dental products like [electric] toothbrushes. 'It's high value, easy to carry and easy to dispose of. Another thing is high-value fragrances like Tom Ford.' Ms Brown said the John Lewis Partnership - which runs both John Lewis and Waitrose - has been investing heavily in its store security. Meanwhile, shoppers at major UK supermarkets including Sainsbury's, Morrisons and Aldi are reporting heightened security measures in UK stores such as bag searches after using self-service checkouts following a rise in shoplifting. Customers claim they have found themselves under 'close inspection' following an increase in the number of bag checks at certain stores before leaving the premises. California Gov. Gavin Newsom called it 'ridiculous' when Fox News' Sean Hannity asked him Wednesday night if there was any way he would accept the Democratic nomination for president in 2024. Newsom appeared with Hannity at the Reagan Library after the second Republican primary debate wrapped up at the Simi Valley facility. Hannity was pushing Newsom to admit he had presidential ambitions, despite the California Democrat already endorsing and working with 80-year-old Biden's reelection campaign. 'I know the truth, in your heart, in your mind you want this,' Hannity said, pointing to the spin room filled with Republican presidential contenders and their campaign surrogates. 'But you have basically gone on a media tour sucking up to Joe Biden and you know he's a cognitive mess.' Newsom ignored Hannity's comment responding, 'I also know he's got an extraordinary record to run on.' California Gov. Gavin Newsom called it 'ridiculous' when Fox News ' Sean Hannity asked him Wednesday night if there was any way he would accept the Democratic nomination for president in 2024 'And I couldn't be more proud,' the California governor said. The conservative firebrand tried a second time as his interview with the liberal leader wrapped up. 'Under any circumstances at all - yes or no - will you ever, ever accept the Democratic nomination to run for president in 2024, under any circumstances at all, that's a yes or no,' Hannity asked Newsom. Instead of just saying no, Newsom responded with, 'I'm looking forward.' 'I was just in Chicago with the DNC,' referencing the city where next summer's Democratic National Convention will be held, while adding that he was helping plan 'President Biden's inauguration for a second term.' 'I don't need the long answer I want the yes or no answer. Will you accept this under any circumstances?' Hannity chided. 'Of course not, it's a hypothetical,' Newsom said laughing. 'No, it's a hypothetical. It's ridiculous. Joe Biden's our president.' A super-majority of Americans in recent polls have voiced concerns about Biden's advanced age and his ability to be effective in a second term. And polls that came out this week show Biden either tied for trailing former President Donald Trump in a head-to-head match. Still, Newsom argued that Biden's record looked stronger than Trump's or any of the Republican hopefuls that participated in the debate. Trump skipped the second GOP debate to hold an event in Detroit, Michigan to show solidarity with striking auto workers, despite giving his speech at a non-unionized plant. 'Objectively, he was the winner tonight,' Newsom said of Biden. 'No doubt about it. That's not spin.' 'These guys identified problems and Biden actually has not only identified solutions he's gotten bipartisan deals to begin the procerss of implementing those,' Newsom said. Hannity then asked about Biden's record at the border - where attempted crossings last month hit an all-time high. 'I believe Ronald Reagan was right in 1986 when he supported comprehensive immigration reform,' Newsom answered. He also argued that 'Joe Biden has been unbelievable successful' and said Democrats and Republicans 'agree on strong borders.' 'I think the Republican Party is complicit in this as well,' the California governor added. Hannity argued, 'the border was more secure under Donald Trump.' 'That's wildly overstated but I get your fundamental point,' Newsom said. 'Clearly the challenges are more accute today and, by the way, I don't need to be educated on this, I have the largest land port in the western hemisphere here in the state of California.' The two men moved on to the high gas prices in California. Newsom said it was because 'oil companies are screwing us.' Then they discussed Newsom's forthcoming debate - being moderated by Hannity - against Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, scheduled for late November. DeSantis was one of the seven GOP hopefuls to compete on Wednesday night's debate stage. Hannity suggested that Newsom didn't care for DeSantis. 'I don't like people who demonize other people or go after vulnerable communities - but I also don't like liars,' Newsom said. 'Nikki Haley laid him out tonight.' Haley went after DeSantis for banning fracking - which wasn't accurate - as well as offshore drilling. Newsom went after DeSantis' opposition to offshore drilling in his conversation with Hannity. 'He signed a 2019 executive order, I'm a governor I know executive orders, why would you sign an executive order saying you will not do offshore oil rigs in your backyard and then blame Biden for not doing more across the country?' Newsom asked. 'The hypocrisy was remarkable and Haley laid him out,' the California governor added. A British tourist told how he was 'lucky to be alive' after being shot twice during a trip to New York. Cameron Robertson, 41, miraculously survived despite being hit by two 'dum dum', or hollow point bullets, fired by masked gunmen on the streets of Brooklyn while on vacation with his wife, Jill, 42. And it's believed he may have been caught up in an attempted hit on local police officers, as the couple returned from a rock concert on September 17. The stunned father of two had jetted off to The Big Apple for the four-day trip to see two bands - Nothing But Thieves and Kid Kapichi - in the trendy Bushwick section of the borough. According to the NYPD, the gunmen that wounded Robertson are still-at-large. Cameron Robertson, 41, from York, said that he is still in pain but grateful to not have been more seriously injured from the ordeal Robertson was discharged within hours of the shooting and flew back to the UK Robertson credited his wife Jill with stopping him from bleeding out following the shooting The couple were walking towards a supermarket after the show when the gunfire erupted. 'We heard a pop, my wife heard screams and we jumped into a deli just next to us. That's when I realized I'd been shot, initially in my arm,' Robertson told The York Press. 'I was in some pain so was trying to control my breathing whilst my wife put pressure on my wound.' 'The police came, checked all over my chest for no wounds and then applied tourniquets. The paramedics showed up quickly after that and took over.' he added. Following the shooting, the father-of-two was rushed to a local hospital where he learned that one bullet went directly through his arm and another was lodged in his thigh. Robertson was released around 11am the following morning with a letter clearing him to fly back to England. The couple landed around 8pm. He said Virgin Airways 'were amazing, taking good care of me.' The music fan said that he was lucky to escape with minor injuries but said that his wife is still dealing with the 'mental ramifications' of the incident. On Instagram, Robertson credited his wife's fast thinking in putting pressure on the wound and stopping him from bleeding out. Since the shooting, Robertson has undergone surgery to remove one of the bullets. The bullet will be sent back to New York to aid in the investigation. 'There had been an escalation in shootings in the area, so it's possible they were aiming at the police and we were in the wrong place at the wrong time,' he said. The bullet that was removed from Robertson was sent back to the NYPD as their investigation into the shooting continues Crime in New York City skyrocketed from 2020 to 2023 In addition, Robertson said that he was shocked to see the hospital bill of $16,532, which will be paid by his insurance company. Robertson said in an Instagram post after the shooting that he was 'in a bit of pain.' 'One bullet went straight through my bicep and the other went in my quad and is just under the skin at the back of my thigh,' he said. 'The incident hasn't put us off travelling back to the States, although we've probably exhausted New York and have other places we'd want to visit,' he told the Press. Robertson seems to be taking the incident in his stride, writing on Instagram that traveling to the Big Apple truly ended up costing him 'an arm and a leg.' Crime has risen in virtually every category in New York City compared to last year, statistics show, despite Mayor Eric Adams repeatedly claiming his campaigns to resolve the issue have been successful. The New York City Police Department released its annual round-up of crime over the past year - revealing figures were up in virtually every category, despite recent assertions from the mayor. Republicans kicked off their first impeachment hearing by tearing into Joe Biden and trying to tie him to his son's business dealings, as Democrats claimed they had 'no evidence' to show the president ever profited from Hunter's influence-trading. 'At least 10 times, Joe Biden lied to the American people that he never spoke to his family about their business dealings,' Oversight Chair James Comer, R-Ky., said during the hearing. Testimony from Hunter Biden business partner Devon Archer claimed Biden had contact with Hunter's associates around 20 times over 10 years - but didn't necessarily get into business details with them. Top Oversight Democrat Jamie Raskin made a motion to subpoena Rudy Giuliani and Lev Parnas, believing them to be not credible witnesses and claiming the accusations about Joe Biden's involvement originated with them. He noted none of the Republican witnesses have any direct knowledge of the alleged misdeeds of the president. 'Not one of them has participated in the eight months of investigation,' he said. 'They've got nothing on Joe Biden.' Republicans, led by James Comer, right, kicked off their first impeachment hearing by tearing into Joe Biden and trying to tie him to his son's business dealings, as Democrats, led by Jamie Raskin, left, claimed they had 'no evidence' to show the president ever profited from Hunter's influence-trading 'If this dysfunction caucus is going to insist on going forward, we must receive the testimony of Rudy Giuliani and Lev Parnas, the insiders who know the origins of the lie upon which this sham impeachment is based and who work to spread it,' Raskin said. Oversight Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., called a vote to table that motion, or swat down the effort to subpoena the Trump-aligned duo, which passed with a majority of Republican votes. Comer, meanwhile, claimed Biden had 'abused his public office for his family's financial gain. For years, President Biden has lied to the American people about his knowledge of and participation in his family's corrupt business schemes.' 'If this dysfunction caucus is going to insist on going forward, we must receive the testimony of Rudy Giuliani and Lev Parnas, the insiders who know the origins of the lie upon which this sham impeachment is based and who work to spread it,' Raskin said 'Biden spoke, dined, and developed relationships with his family's foreign business targets. These business targets include foreign oligarchs who sent millions of dollars to his family,' Comer went on. But Republican witness Jonathan Turley, who defended Trump during his impeachment trial, said the evidence against Joe Biden has not yet amounted to an impeachable offense. 'While I believe that an impeachment inquiry is warranted, I do not believe that the evidence currently meets the standard of a high crime and misdemeanor needed for an article of impeachment,' Turley said in his opening statement. Turley said that while Republicans allege Biden lied about the foreign business dealings, lying is not an impeachable offense. 'Indeed most presidents have lied to the American people.' He cited three 'inescapable facts' that warrant an inquiry: the president spoke 'falsely' about business dealings, he was the 'focus' of the influence scheme and Biden 'may have benefited' from the scheme. Tennessee Republican Rep. Tim Burchett, a committee member told DailyMail.com agreed, saying that Republicans have not yet uncovered enough evidence to impeach the president. 'I don't think the votes would be there,' he said. 'We're building up momentum. And honestly in the public side, when I'm at home, this is this is what more people talk about than anything else.' Comer, meanwhile, also pointed to newly released bank records showing Chinese officials sent $250,000 to Joe Biden's home address in 2019 while he was running for president. It's not clear if Hunter was living there at the time, but the new evidence suggests Joe did know that Hunter did business with China despite claiming his son never did. House Oversight Committee held its first impeachment hearing where they seek to tie Joe Biden to Hunter Biden's business dealings There are also WhatsApp messages Hunter sent to an associate claiming Joe was in the room while they were discussing business, and damning testimony from IRS and FBI whistleblowers. But Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., noted that Hunter Biden was addicted to drugs at the time he sent such messages. 'They rely on the words of Hunter Biden - Mr. Biden said this, Mr. Biden said that, therefore case closed, there is something there,' she said. 'Mr. Gerhardt is this a reliable witness?' she asked Democratic witness Michael Gerhardt. Comer reiterated that the Oversight Committee has discovered around 20 shell companies to wire over $20 million to the Biden family between 2014 and 2019. Around nine family members have been found to receive payments. They have yet to link the payments directly to Joe's bank account, but text messages have suggested Hunter paid bills for his father. But Turley poked holes in the argument that only a direct payment to Biden's bank account would amount to an impeachable offense. 'There's been a repeated statement that you need to show that the President Biden accepted direct money in order for this to constitute a benefit even under under criminal cases that deal with bribery, extortion and Hobbs Act,' he said. 'Obviously, if the strongest case is if you have a direct payment. But this idea that you can have millions going to a politician's family and that's not a benefit, I think is pretty fallacious.' Democrat committee member Raja Khrishnamoorthi lobbed a personal attack at Turley: 'You've been crusading for legalizing polygamy for years!' In 2006, Turley penned an op-ed for the Guardian entitled 'Stop persecuting polygamists.' Later in the hearing another Democrat - Rep. Kweisi Mfume - called for another vote to subpoena Giuliani. 'Where in the world is Rudy Giuliani?' he said as Republicans moved to table the vote. Republicans must directly tie Hunter's influence peddling to Joe if they want to nail him for high crimes and misdemeanors. In this first hearing, Comer has said not to expect any new bombshells but said that he wants to 'reeducate' the Washington press corps on existing evidence. During the hearing Republicans frequently pointed to Joe meeting one of Hunter's Chinese business partners, Jonathan Li, when he took his son on a 2013 Air Force 2 trip to China. Republican witness Jonathan Turley, who defended Trump during his impeachment trial, said the evidence against Joe Biden has not yet amounted to an impeachable offense In total Joe met with fifteen of Hunter's business associates according to White House visitor logs and records from the First Son's laptop. In addition to Turley, the witnesses included: Bruce Dubinsky, a forensic accountant with decades of experience in financial investigations and former assistant attorney general Eileen O'Connor, who served in the U.S. Department of Justice's Tax Division. Democrats mocked Republicans for holding an impeachment hearing just as the clock ticks down to a government shutdown Saturday at midnight. 'There are 61 hours and 55 minutes until the government shuts down because of extreme House Republicans' chaos and inability to govern,' the White House said in a statement on the hearing. 'Nothing can distract from that.' Ocasio-Cortez tore into Republicans for failing to hold a full House vote to launch their inquiry, noting a House vote preceded the Clinton and Nixon inquiries. 'There is not one here for this one. This is an embarrassment. An embarrassment to the time and people of this country,' she said. Meanwhile Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., posted a photo of himself on X holding a case of Bud Light with a bow on it. 'This morning, I directed my staff to deliver a gift to congratulate and salute Representative Comer and his Team America squad as they embark on their historic impeachment journey.' The case had a note on it: 'A profile in courage can make a guy thirsty.' They came within 88m of him on Monday but he was able to 'elude capture' Police were tracking his phone and financial transactions before her death A violent serial offender was being tracked by officers three days before he allegedly killed a Forbes 30 under 30 CEO on the roof of her luxury apartment building. Baltimore Police have confirmed on Thursday that they had placed Jason Billingsley, 32, under surveillance before he was suspected of killing Pava LaPere, 26. Officers tracked his phone, spending and social media following the attempted murder and rape of a woman on September 19. He was arrested at 11pm on Wednesday at a train station around 30 miles from where LaPere was found dead. LaPere's body was discovered on September 26 after she was reported missing, but cops now say she was killed on September 22. It is still unclear how Billingsley got into the 'secure' apartment building, if he knew LaPere, and why officers were unable to apprehend him before the violent attack. Commissioner of Baltimore police, Richard Worley, denied making a mistake by delaying issuing info on Billingsley - who he branded a 'psychopath' - to the public following the first incident. Baltimore Police have confirmed that they placed Jason Billingsley, 32, under surveillance before he was suspected of killing Pava LaPere, 26 LaPere was discovered on September 26 after being reported missing, but cops now say they suspect she was killed on September 22 Police repeatedly came under fire for their handling of the investigation during the press conference on Thursday - but hit back to defend a barrage of criticism. Authorities say the incident on September 19 was not a random attack, and that Billingsley knew the victims - so they did not alert the public to the potential risk as there was no indication he would commit further crimes. Law enforcement also confirmed he is suspected of stealing a firearm, telling his victim that he would be 'difficult to apprehend'. Billingsleys mother was among those urging him to turn himself in after he came to her property with a gun. Authorities also announced a $6,000 reward in the case. The violent convicted criminal, who was released early from his 30-year sentence for attempted rape, had been working in the building. He is accused of breaking into the basement apartment and attacking a woman and man, both 26, while a 5-year-old child was in the property. Billingsley then raped the woman, and set fire to the building, with police linking him to the crime less than 24 hours later. But Worley claims they did not issue a flyer on the incident because it was not a 'random act', and defended the actions of the police force. 'He went to that location for a criminal reason,' he said. ' We were monitoring the suspect, which included tracking his phone, financial transactions, social media and his known addresses. Commissioner of Baltimore police, Richard Worley, denied making a mistake by delaying issuing info on Billingsley - who he branded a 'psychopath' - to the public following the first incident LaPere was found dead on the roof of her building, which is the former site of the Congress Hotel, where one bedroom apartments rent for $1,500 a month Pava Marie LaPere, 26, was killed by blunt force trauma inside her luxury Mount Vernon, Baltimore apartment , and her body was found by police on Monday Images obtained exclusively by DailyMail.com show the windows boarded up at the home where Billingsley is believed to have raped a young woman at knifepoint as her partner looked on, then doused the room with gas and fled 'In several instances we were able to track him in close proximity, and delayed the press conference on Monday because we were around 88 meters from capturing him. 'But he was able to elude capture. We knew the risk was that when we went public, he would go underground, and that is exactly what he did. 'The news conference happened the other day, and he left the location where a search warrant had been issued when he watched it.' Despite being tracked by officers for three days, he entered LaPere's 'secure' apartment building where her badly-beaten body was discovered on the roof. Billingsley was tracked by law enforcement to the MARC Train Station on Laurel-Bowie Road in Bowie, Prince George's County, on Wednesday evening. He was arrested 'without incident', with Worley stating that he was 'surrounded by a SWAT team' and cooperated with officers. The suspected killer was charged with first-degree murder, assault, reckless endangerment in relation to LaPere's death. Authorities confirmed there was 'no forced entry' into LaPere's apartment building and 'don't know' if there were any prior connection between her and Billingsley. Billingsley had been compliant with his sex offender notification, but failed to show up as his scheduled appointment on Monday. The violent criminal was released in 2022 because of 'good credit', after being convicted of attempted rape and handed a 30-year sentence by a judge. DailyMail.com previously revealed that detectives are probing links between Pava LePere's slaying and an unsolved arson attack and sex assault on a young couple. Images obtained exclusively by DailyMail.com show the blackened shell where the horrifying rape and arson unfolded Despite being tracked by officers for three days, he entered LaPere's 'secure' apartment building where her badly-beaten body was discovered on the roof The underground bedroom is strewn with scorched clothes, charred furniture and wrecked electrical items. At the center is a bed covered with ash and debris Billingsley was released in October due to a mandatory state law, with the Chair of the Maryland Parole Commission confirming to DailyMail.com that the serial sex attacker was denied parole twice, in 2020 and 2022. David Blumberg said Billingsley was released due to an 'operation of law' in Maryland, which allows offenders to be released early for good behavior and credits. 'We had concerns about him, or we would have considered parole,' he said. 'He was serving time for a crime of a very serious nature. 'With regard to his case, it was not a difficult decision to refuse parole. It's a very sad and tragic case, she was a bright young woman with a lot to look forward to and to see this happen is heartbreaking.' Billingsley, a 6ft 2' and 305lb convict, has a history of violent offending with convictions dating back to 2009 when he was just 18. The felon was convicted of first-degree assault in 2009, for robbing $10 from a man and attacking him. He was handed two years of supervised probation. Billingsley violated the terms of his probation, and was accused of punching his ex-girlfriend in the face, pinning her down, and taking her phone. He was charged with second-degree assault, false imprisonment and theft of less than $100, and served to years in prison. Authorities confirmed that here was 'no forced entry' into LaPere's apartment building and they 'don't know' if there were any prior connection between her and Billingsley Mayor Brandon Scott was critical of Billingsley's release, saying he 'quite frankly shouldn't have been out on the streets in the first place' Members of LaPere's family spoke during the vigil to honor the slain entrepreneur on Wednesday Months after being released for the violent attack, Billingsley was convicted of attempted rape in 2013. Billingsley forced a woman to perform oral sex on him at knife-point before stealing $53 from her. He was sentenced to 30 years in prison after the first-degree sexual assault, with part of his sentence suspended. Court records show that 16 years of Billingsley's sentence was suspended, and he was given five years of supervised probation upon his release. Billingsley was due to be under probation supervision until 2027 and was ultimately released after racking up four years and three months' worth of credits. He was sentenced in 2015, but his jail term started in 2013 when he was incarcerated after being convicted of the prior attempted rape. The suspected killer was set to serve 14 years of the 30-year sentence, with a judge suspending 16 of his sentence. But he was released after just nine years of the sentence, due to credits that he earned while being incarcerated. Mayor Brandon Scott was critical of Billingsley's release, saying he 'quite frankly shouldn't have been out on the streets in the first place.' Baltimore City State's Attorney Ivan Bates said if Billingsley is found guilty of these two crimes, his office will seek life in prison without the possibility of parole. Bates said the hope is 'this individual will never get out to see the light of day again.' Billingsley, pictured with his mother Scarlett, showed her that he had a firearm after going to her home on Monday LaPere was described as having 'untiring commitment' to her company and to the city of Baltimore LaPere's battered body was found on the rooftop of her apartment building, and police are probing any links between her and her alleged killer DailyMail.com previously revealed that detectives are probing links between Pava's slaying and an unsolved arson attack and sex assault. The suspect was thought to have been working as a maintenance man to talk his way inside the couple's townhouse on September 19 before tying them both up in a basement bedroom. He raped the young woman at knifepoint as her partner looked on, powerless to intervene, then doused the room with gas and fled, according to accounts from both a police source and a neighbor. The Baltimore PD said a man and a woman, both aged 26, were rescued but had suffered burns and 'multiple injuries'. A five-year-old child was found upstairs suffering from smoke inhalation. A police source told DailyMail.com the attacker had initially targeted the woman, sexually assaulting her and slashing her throat with a knife. The child is recovering but the two adults were left in critical condition, police said. Neither have been named. Images obtained exclusively by DailyMail.com show the blackened shell where the horrifying rape and arson unfolded. The dingy underground bedroom is strewn with scorched clothes, charred furniture and wrecked electrical items. At the center is a bed covered with ash and debris. There are several lengths of charred wire on the floor and the television is melted into a black, plastic blob. The three-floor building remains boarded up and uninhabited. A masked teenager who brought terror to a school after stabbing a teacher has been jailed for 14 months. The 15-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, attacked Jamie Sansom with a six-inch knife at Tewkesbury Academy in Gloucestershire. Wearing a snood and a hooded top, he knocked on the door of the classroom where Mr Sansom was teaching and said: Come here. Maths teacher Jamie Samsom was stabbed by a 15-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, at Tewkesbury Academy in Gloucestershire on July 10 Mr Sansom suffered a puncture wound to the stomach and was released from hospital after treatment Prosecutor Christine Hart said: [The boy] said Im sorry and moved towards him in a stabbing motion. Mr Sansom felt the knife and asked him, What are you doing? The school was put into lockdown for four hours after the attack, with teachers barricading terrified pupils in classrooms by putting wardrobes across doors. Some children cowered in cupboards. Desperate parents rushed to the school while armed police with trained dogs made their way through the building, although it later emerged the suspect had fled. READ MORE: Armed police search school after maths teacher stabbed Advertisement When the boys mother managed to contact him and asked him to give himself up, he told her: Goodbye forever but remember I always loved you guys. He was arrested two hours after the stabbing by firearms officers in Stoke Orchard, six miles away. Mr Sansom, 27, suffered a puncture wound to the stomach and was taken to an office where an ambulance was called. He was treated at hospital but released later the same day. The boy, who has never given a motive for the attack, admitted attempting to unlawfully and maliciously wound and possessing a bladed article. Imposing a 14-month detention and training order yesterday, District Judge Lynne Matthews told him: You were not acting impulsively. You took the face covering to school, you took the knife to school.' Half the sentence will be served at a youth detention centre, with the rest at home where he will be monitored by a youth offending team, Bristol Magistrates Court was told. Two nearby schools were also locked down during the attack just after 9am on July 10, amid initial concerns it was terror-related. Emotional parents described how their children had been really, really terrified and had been left traumatised by the experience. Sarah Penny, who has a child at the school, said at the time: They had to put a small cabinet across the door to keep them safe. Tewkesbury Academy in Gloucestershire, pictured, was put into lockdown for four hours following the incident on July 10 One of my sons friends sent a message to his dad saying they were in lockdown and to come and get him because he didnt want to die. A text message sent from another pupil to a parent said: We are stuck in a classroom. Mum Im really scared. They had guns, they had armed police and dogs were out.' Hundreds of parents gathered at the school took their children home when they were allowed out from 1.30pm. Cardiff University graduate Mr Sansom, a maths teacher who was due to leave for another job at the end of the academic year, was described as wonderful and one of the best teachers at the 1,600-pupil mixed secondary, which was rated as requires improvement at its last Ofsted inspection. In a victim impact statement read in court, he said: I never expected this to happen in a school, let alone to me. I thought I might have been in some sort of soap opera. I didnt have time to react. He added he holds no ill will towards [the student] for what happened, adding: I hope he gets the support he needs. James McKella, defending the teenager whose parents were in court, said he had poor mental health at the time and was experiencing suicidal thoughts. Laurence Fox sparked outrage after he launched into a sick rant targeting a female journalist on GB News this week. The controversial ex-actor, who presented his own Friday night show on the news channel before being suspended on Wednesday, appeared on Dan Wootton Tonight on Tuesday where he publicly humiliated political reporter Ava Evans. Now, with both Fox and Wootton suspended as a result of the scandal, Ofcom said it is investigating whether GB News breached the Broadcasting Code after receiving thousands of complaints. Here's exactly what former Lewis star Fox said on GB News, that ignited outrage across both the political and social divide. Laurence Fox (right) spoke about Ava Evans during Dan Wootton (left) Tonight on Tuesday Ava Evans, political correspondent for news website Joe, on ITV's Good Morning Britain today Fox launched into an abusive rant against political journalist after she spoke about men's mental health on BBC's Politics Live show 'Were past the watershed so I can say this: show me a single self-respecting man that would like to climb into bed with that woman, ever, ever, who wasnt an Incel?' he said, via video link. 'That little woman has been fed, spoon-fed oppression day after day after day starting with the lie of the gender wage gap, and shes sat there and Im going, if I met you in a bar and that was like sentence three, chances of me just walking away are just huge. 'We need powerful strong amazing women who make great points for themselves, we dont need these sort of feminist 4.0 theyre pathetic and embarrassing. Who would want to shag that?" Fox and host Wootton both laughed before the former actor added: 'Sorry, it's true though.' Wootton then added: 'Im just going to provide a touch of balance from her because she did actually respond to this earlier today, saying that she regretted her comments, but she didnt apologise. So there you go. And shes a very beautiful woman Laurence, very beautiful.' Today, as the media storm surrounding the scandal intensified, Fox admitted he 'could and should have dialled down the bar room banter'. The right-wing actor spoke out in response to controversial US journalist Megyn Kelly who told him she supported his actions. 'I listened to the whole segment. You were mad she so easily wrote off the epidemic of men's suicide, which she absolutely did,' she wrote. 'She sounded heartless. You were making the point of how unattractive it made her to you. You didn't use the Queen's English but what she said was far uglier.' Responding, Fox wrote: 'I could and should have dialled down the bar room banter, but I have lost male friends to suicide, and her dismissal of male mental health is very upsetting to anyone who has experienced such tragedy. We live. We learn.' Fox wrote: 'I could and should have dialled down the bar room banter (he is pictured on Tuesday night's show on GB News) In a separate lengthy tweet about the scandal, the former Lewis star later hinted he was expecting to be sacked by GB News. Attacking the broadcaster and accusing other 'desperate presenters' of 'joining the pile on', a defiant Fox hailed himself the 'catalyst for the great takedown' of the station. Fox added: 'I still haven't heard a word from them, and am waiting for the chop on Friday at my disciplinary hearing. Such is life. I own my mistakes and take full responsibility for them.' But Fox's crass remarks sparked anger across the political divide, with the broadcaster suspending him as well as Dan Wootton, the presenter of the show. Caroline Nokes, the Commons Women and Equalities Committee chairman, said there was a 'really serious case to answer' and insisted GB News should be 'taken off air'. She also condemned a number of her Conservative colleagues for 'swanning off' to host shows on GB News, saying it was 'very odd' for MPs such as Lee Anderson and Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg to have presenting gigs while they have a 'day job to do'. Today a spokesperson for dmg media said: 'Following events this week, dmg media can confirm that Dan Woottons freelance column with MailOnline - which had already been paused - has now been terminated, along with his contract.' Tarzan the logging horse's new work commute will involve travelling across a loch aboard a barge named 'Water Horse' - all in a bid to revive an ancient Highland pinewood forest. The campaign will see the newest form of timber transport team up with the oldest in an attempt to restore a spectacular remnant of Caledonian pinewood and Scotland's rainforest. Tarzan will travel to work aboard a brand new barge - whose Gaelic name Each-Uisge translates as 'Water Horse' - as part of the campaign. The vessel will aid in the bid to remove non-native Sitka spruce and lodgepole pine planted in the 1960s from a very remote area of forest on the shores of Loch Arkaig, in Lochaber, over the course of five years. The trees in question have crowded out the native pinewood. For the next few weeks, Tarzan and handler Simon Daken will travel across to the remote forest, known as The Gusach, each Monday - where they will camp out for the week and work to remove the newer trees. Tarzan will travel to work aboard a brand-new barge (pictured) - whose Gaelic name Each-Uisge translates as 'Water Horse' Tarzan the logging horse's new work commute will involve travelling across a lock aboard a barge named 'Water Horse' - all in a bid to revive an ancient Highland pinewood forest For the next few weeks, Tarzan and handler Simon (pictured) will travel across to the remote forest, known as The Gusach, each Monday - where they will camp out for the week and work to remove the newer trees Three forestry workers will also be living and working in The Gusach over winter, operating two harvesting machines and the forwarder - a large vehicle with rubber tyres. Felling on the site is taking place over the winter to avoid disturbing nesting birds and other wildlife during the breeding season. The forest is home to native species including red deer, ospreys, sea eagles, pine martens and red squirrels. People's Postcode Lottery players contributed 1.8million towards the purchase of the ancient site and its restoration. Loch Arkaig Pine Forest contains rare fragments of ancient Caledonian pinewood and Scotland's rainforest. Back in the 1960s it was planted through with non-native conifers. Now mature, these trees are crowding out the remaining pines and other native trees. A total of 70,000 tonnes of mainly Sitka spruce and lodgepole pine is being removed over five years so that the remaining native trees can reclaim the site with their offspring. The only way to get to The Gusach is across so the lock, so the barge has been custom-built so that a forwarder filled with logs can drive onto its deck to be ferried across to the roadside on the opposite bank. It is thought to be a UK first for timber transport over freshwater. Woodland Trust Scotland's ambition is to ultimately power it on an electric vehicle charger like an electric car which will be a world first. Estate Manager Henry Dobson of Woodland Trust Scotland said: 'It has taken years of planning and preparation to get our barging scheme up and running, so it is very exciting to see the first loads of timber coming off. For the last two winters, we have successfully been removing non-native timber along a forest track from the easier to reach parts of the forest. 'But the remoteness of The Gusach has been a huge challenge to overcome. Building a track in would have destroyed a lot of the special habitats we are here to restore in the first place. So, we decided that the only acceptable route was over the loch itself.' Mr Dobson added: 'We are intervening to kick-start all the natural processes of the forest back up and running again. Ultimately the goal is to be able to step back, do very little and let the forest get on with things naturally.' Information on Scotland's rainforest can be found on the Alliance for Scotland's Rainforest website. Laura Chow, Head of Charities at People's Postcode Lottery, said: 'There is such a great opportunity at Loch Arkaig to restore a fully natural native woodland and all the amazing biodiversity associated with it. But it must be done while there are still some old trees around to produce offspring. 'It has taken considerable ingenuity to clear the non-native conifers, of which the barge is a great example. We are delighted our players are supporting this important and exciting work.' Mr Dakin and his horse 'Tarzan' working beside Loch Arkaig, Lochaber for Woodland Trust Scotland The only way to get to The Gusach is across so the lock, so the barge has been custom-built so that a forwarder filled with logs can drive onto its deck to be ferried across to the roadside on the opposite bank The campaign will see the newest form of timber transport team up with the oldest in an attempt to try and restore a spectacular remnant of Caledonian pinewood and Scotland's rainforest Woodland Trust Scotland bought the site in partnership with local group Arkaig Community Forest and together they are restoring the woodland while seeking to stimulate economic activity in the community of Achnacarry, Bunarkaig and Clunes. Arkaig Community Forest chairperson Liam McLoone said: 'Our community has created a tree nursery supporting three part time jobs, growing locally sourced native trees such as Scots pine, oak, birch, aspen and rowan. We have also set up a deer larder which supports two part time jobs and supplies venison for local consumption. 'Timber milling in the forest has potential to create even more local jobs in the future. Working together with the Woodland Trust we are maximising the benefits for nature and people.' The 'Water Horse' was made in Troon, Ayrshire, and is operated by JST Services (Scotland) Ltd. It can be taken apart and re-assembled so it is easily transported into many freshwater lochs, cutting out the need for new forest tracks. It reached Loch Arkaig from Ayrshire by lorry and travelled via Glencoe. ? La presidenta Dina Boluarte recibio en Palacio de Gobierno al secretario general de la Organizacion para la Cooperacion y el Desarrollo Economicos (OCDE), Mathias Cormann, encuentro que permitio ratificar el compromiso del Peru con los valores de este organismo. pic.twitter.com/aD5LF5bTEy Chris Christie stood by his attack on first lady Jill Biden in the second Republican primary presidential debate and called Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's criticism of his words the 'highlight of my day.' Christie attacked Joe Biden's ties with unions by saying the president was 'sleep with a union member' - a reference to Jill Biden and her membership in a teachers' union. When asked by CNN's Poppy Harlow about women being offended by his remark, Christie interrupted her to say: 'Well that's the truth, isn't it?' He called the first lady 'a radical advocate for the worst in the teachers union.' Chris Christie doubled down on his attacks on first lady Jill Biden His original remarks during the debate sparked outrage. Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez took to social media to call Christie's remarks 'disgusting, misogynistic, and if Republicans want to continue pissing off an entire nation of women, please be my guest.' Asked about the criticism from the New York congresswoman, Christie replied: 'I am standing by the wording. Being called disgusting by a hypocrite like Ocasio-Cortez is the highlight of my day so far.' The former governor of New Jersey also pointed to a recent book about Biden's administration that details conversations the president supposedly had with Randi Weingarten, the president of the American Federation of Teachers. 'It talks very, very specifically about how Joe Biden told Randi Weingarten, 'I told you, you'd have an advocate here in the White House for you, starting on day one, when they moved into the White House,' Christie told CNN. 'That's the history. Joe Biden has been a radical advocate for the worst in the teachers union.' 'And that's why I brought it up because no one else is willing to,' he added. 'No one else is willing to say it.' Neither the Biden campaign nor the East Wing responded to DailyMail.com's inquiry about Christie's insult to the first lady. Jill Biden has been a teacher for more than 30 years, currently teaches at a Northern Virginia community college, and is a member of the National Education Association. She started her career as a public high school English teacher and later went back to school herself to get her doctorate in education. She taught English professor at Northern Virginia Community College when her husband was vice president and continued to do so when he won the presidency, becoming the first first lady in modern history to have a job outside of her ceremonial duties. She has called herself a 'proud, card-carrying union member.' Both she and President Biden have done events with Weingarten and members of the teachers' union in addition to events with other unions like labor. President Joe Biden with first lady Jill Biden - she has called herself a card-carrying union member and he has talked about her union membership Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez called Christ Christie's comments on Jill Biden 'disgusting and 'misogynistic' During the debate, Christie, slammed President Biden for 'sleeping with a member of the teachers union' - referring to the first lady - and said the teacher's union has 'an advocate inside the White House every day for the worst of their teachers, not for their students to be the best they can be.' Biden has called himself 'the most pro-union president in American history' - referring to his long ties and support to all labor unions, not just his marriage to a union member. But he has noted his wife's membership in the National Education Association. 'I sleep with a NEA member every night,' he said at Labor Day event in 2021. Later in the Republican debate, former Vice President Mike Pence brought the conversation back to the bedroom later in the debate, noting his wife Karen is a teacher. 'By way of full disclosure, Chris, you mentioned the President's situation. My wife isn't a member of the Teachers Union, but I got to admit I I've been sleeping with a teacher for 38 years. Full disclosure,' he said. The remark was met with silence by the studio audience in Simi Valley. Jill Biden has been a teacher for more than 30 years Mike Pence noted he also sleeps with a teacher - his wife Karen Karen Pence taught school for decades, according to her former Indiana government website, earning a master's degree in education and teaching art therapy. As first lady of Indiana, she taught at a Christian school that doesn't allow gay students and that barred employees from engaging in 'homosexual or lesbian sexual activity.' Christie battled with teachers unions as New Jersey governor, and railed against them during his failed 2016 presidential campaign, calling them 'the single most destructive force in public education in America.' Cops have charged prime-suspect and ex-boyfriend with murder of mother-of-five, 35, who disappeared in 2015 a year before her father was also shot and killed by an unknown gunman at his home. Crystal Rogers was reported missing in Nelson County, Kentucky in July 2015, and now, eight years on, her former boyfriend Brooks Houck was arrested with her murder, FBI and Kentucky State Police said in a statement this week. Houck was also charged with tampering with physical evidence in relation to her case. His bond was set at $10million in cash. The FBI 'has been laser-focused on our commitment to hold accountable those that were responsible for the disappearance of Crystal Rogers. Today, we take the first step in making good on that promise.' the statement, published on Wednesday, read. After she disappeared, Rodgers' father Tommy Ballard spearheaded an initiative to bring her home until he was mysteriously shot while preparing for a hunting trip with his grandson on November 19, 2016. His murder remains unsolved. Crystal Rogers (right) was reported missing in Nelson County, Kentucky in July 2015, and now, eight years on, her former boyfriend Brooks Houck (left) was arrested with her murder, FBI and Kentucky State Police said in a statement this week After she disappeared, Rodgers' (left) father Tommy Ballard (rigth) spearheaded an initiative to bring her home until he was mysteriously shot while preparing for a hunting trip with his grandson on November 19, 2016. His murder remains unsolved Houck was also charged with tampering with physical evidence in relation to her case. His bond was set at $10million in cash The FBI 'has been laser-focused on our commitment to hold accountable those that were responsible for the disappearance of Crystal Rogers. Today, we take the first step in making good on that promise.' the statement, published on Wednesday, read Houck, who was Rogers' boyfriend at the time she disappeared and was the father of one of her children, told officers that he had last seen her alive on July 5 when they visited his family's farm the night before she disappeared. Two days later, on July 7, her parents reported Rogers missing. Her car was found abandoned on the same day - with a flat tire along the Bluegrass Parkway and her keys, phone and purse were still inside the vehicle, authorities said. Houck is the only person police have ever named as a suspect in the case, though he had never been arrested or charged until now. His brother, Nick Houck, was fired from the Bardstown Police Department for allegedly warning Brooks Houck that cops were coming to question him, and subsequently failing a lie detector test about the case. The FBI field office in Louisville announced in August 2020 that it had taken the lead in the case. They are also investigating the murder case of Tommy Ballard, but have not said whether this is related to Rogers' disappearance. More than 150 federal agents executed search warrants on several properties, including a family farm and Houck's home, where IRS agents were seen removing files, documents and computer hard drives. In addition to the FBI, the Internal Revenue Service, the Kentucky State Police, and the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Kentucky were assisting with the investigation. Houck, who was Rogers' boyfriend at the time she disappeared and was the father of one of her children, told officers (like in one of his interviews pictured above)that he had last seen her alive on July 5 when they visited his family's farm the night before she disappeared Two days later, on July 7, her parents reported Rogers missing. Her car (pictured) was found abandoned on the same day - with a flat tire along the Bluegrass Parkway and her keys, phone and purse were still inside the vehicle, authorities said His brother, Nick Houck (pictured), was fired from the Bardstown Police Department for allegedly warning Brooks Houck that cops were coming to question him, and subsequently failing a lie detector test about the case Arrest made eight years after Crystal Rogers disappeared July 3, 2015 - Crystal Rogers was last seen alive July 5, 2015 - She is reported missing by her parents and her car is found October 16, 2015 - Rogers is presumed dead and her ex-boyfriend, Brooks Houck, is the main suspect November 19, 2016 - Tommy Ballard, Rogers' father, is fatally shot while on a hunting trip August 2020 - FBI takes over the Crystal Rogers case and searched several locations, among them Houck's home August 27, 2021 - Investigators find 'items of interest' under driveway of property Houck was connected to October 21, 2022 - FBI agents conclude a second search of the 245-acre Houck Family Farm, with evidence sent to FBI crime lab June 21, 2023 - Grand jury indicts Joseph Lawson on conspiracy to commit murder and tampering with physical evidence in connection to an incident on the same 2015 weekend when Rogers disappeared August 15, 2023 - Kentucky State Police arrest Lawson September 7, 2023 - Lawson's first court appearance. He is scheduled back in court October 26 this year September 27, 2023 - FBI arrests Houck. He is charged with murder and tampering with physical evidence, with his bond being set at $10million. His arraignment is set for October 5 Advertisement In interviews soon after Rogers' disappearance, Brooks Houck said the mother to his then two-year-old son was not at home when he woke up on the Fourth of July. Houck said he wasn't concerned because the couple has had a 'stressed relationship' at times and Rogers would sometimes 'cope or deal' by spending the night at her cousin's house. Rogers' family always doubted his story and suspected his involvement, they told the media over the years. The family cheered the move when Nelson County Sheriff Ed Mattingly officially named Brooks Houck a suspect on October 16, 2015 - though no arrest ever came of it until now, eight years later. Also in October 2015, Nick Houck was fired from the Bardstown Police Department following his suspension. Nick has been accused of warning his brother that detectives were planning to question him and later told him not to talk to police. Authorities said the former officer also failed a polygraph test. Police released an interview that followed the test, where the polygraph examiner told Nick Houck the questions he had problems with were regarding Crystal Rogers. Rogers' parents said that when they heard the interviews, the first thing that went through their minds was 'that they done it'. The state of Louisiana said in 2016 that they believed the car of Houck's grandmother was used to dispose of Rogers' body, but she refused to testify in court, WLKY reported. A friend of Houck's also faced several perjury counts, but pleaded down to lesser charges, according to the news station. Rogers' family welcomed the news of Houck's arrest on Facebook, where they said in a statement: 'This morning the Ballard family received word that Brooks Houck was arrested for an indictment warrant after being indicted by a Nelson County Grand Jury. 'Brooks Houck was named the number one suspect in Crystal's case in 2015. FBI investigators at the home of Nick Houck executing a search warrant in 2020 Authorities said Nick Houck also failed a polygraph test. Police released an interview that followed the test (pictured above), where the polygraph examiner told Nick Houck the questions he had problems with were regarding Crystal Rogers 'We want to thank the FBI, Kentucky State Police, Nelson County Sheriff's Office, Attorney General's Office, Commonwealth Attorney Shane Young and staff as well as the juries. 'At this time we ask for privacy as this is another step forward for justice for Crystal. Continue to pray that justice is served and we bring Crystal home.' Another man, Joseph Lawson, was also arrested earlier this month on charges related to Rogers' disappearance. The 32-year-old has pleaded not guilty to charges of criminal conspiracy to commit murder and tampering with physical evidence in connection with the death of Crystal Rogers, news outlets reported. The indictment did not mention Rogers by name, but Lawson's attorney, Kevin Coleman, said his client's case is connected to the investigation into her disappearance. He declined further comment. Controversial influencer Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan have had restrictions imposed on their movement relaxed today by a Romanian court. The decision by the Bucharest Tribunal to alter the judicial control measures against Tate means he can now travel anywhere in Romania, his spokesperson said. The divisive 36-year-old is charged with rape, human trafficking and forming a criminal gang to sexually exploit women, which he denies. He was arrested in December, and in August was released from house arrest and placed under judicial control, which limited his movements to the territories of Bucharest Municipality and the nearby Ilfov County - unless he obtained prior approval from a judge. Still, he cannot leave the country. The ruling comes after Tate appeared at the court on Tuesday, seeking an end to the restrictions imposed on him, and to retrieve seized assets. Controversial influencer Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan have had restrictions imposed on their movement relaxed today by a Romanian court Romanian prosecutors formally indicted Tate in June along with his brother, Tristan, and two Romanian women in the same case. All four were arrested in late December near Bucharest and have denied the allegations against them. Outside the court on Tuesday, Andrew Tate told journalists that 'things are moving in the correct direction' and described the case against him as a 'witch-hunt.' 'There's not a single video of an abused girl or one single statement against us,' he said. 'If you get too big and too successful, people are going to come and try and attack you.' DIICOT, the Romanian anti-organised crime agency, has accused the Tates of having recruited women through the 'loverboy' method and forcing them to create explicit content on websites like OnlyFans for their financial benefit. Investigators have identified seven potential victims in the case. They continue to deny the charges. Tate also asked the court on Tuesday to return his assets that were seized during investigations. In January, Romanian authorities seized 15 luxury cars, 14 designer watches and cash in several currencies. The total value of the goods at the time, authorities said, was estimated at 3.6 million euros ($3.9 million). 'They took a lot of stuff - 15 cars, and they took a lot of things of a lot of value,' Tate said on Tuesday. 'It'd be nice to get my things back.' The court postponed discussing his assets until early November. If prosecutors can prove the Tate brothers gained money through illicit activities including human trafficking, the assets could be used to cover the expenses of the investigation and compensation for victims, Romania's anti-organized crime agency has said. Divisive social media influencer Andrew Tate (pictured) is charged with rape, human trafficking and forming a criminal gang to sexually exploit women, which he denies Tate, a former professional kickboxer who has 7.9 million followers on X, formerly known as Twitter, has repeatedly claimed that prosecutors have no evidence against him and that there is a political conspiracy designed to silence him. Tate was previously banned from various prominent social media platforms for expressing misogynistic views and for hate speech. Earlier this month, the technology company Apple withdrew a social media app created by Tate from its app store, days after Google's Play Store did the same. Their latest court appearance in the Eastern European country comes as four British women are reportedly set to sue Andrew Tate after alleging he choked and coercively controlled them, with one claiming she was raped. The self-proclaimed misogynist is said to have carried out the abuse between 2013 and 2016, before he rose to prominence on social media. Each woman claims they were choked until the blood vessels in their eyes burst while one said the YouTuber once texted her saying 'I love raping you'. The ruling comes after Tate and his brother Tristan (left) appeared at the court on Tuesday , seeking an end to the restrictions imposed on him after he won an appeal last month to be released from house arrest Tate denies the allegations and has threatened to pursue them for defamation. Of the four women, three went to the police at the time but following a four-year investigation, the Crown Prosecution Service did not bring a charge. The women now believe a civil case is their only option, according to The Sunday Times. They reportedly plan to sue Tate for personal injury and physical harm. The claim is set to be made within the coming weeks. Can you share more information about Amanda or her dad? Email newsUS@dailymail.com Can you share more information about Amanda or her dad? Email newsUS@dailymail.com Hundreds of commenters have applauded the woman for her candor and shared their own stories of their abusive parents and strained relationships In a TikTok, Denis shared pics of the obituary in which she started with the words: 'I am pleased to announce' Amanda Denis of Canada wrote a scathing obituary for her late father, Stefan Harold Kandulski, branding him an 'abusive, narcissistic' parent A Canadian woman has published a shockingly vicious obituary for her late dad claiming she was glad he was silenced by a stroke and that 'karma' killed him. In a TikTok, Amanda Denis shared screengrabs of the obituary for her dad, Stefan Harold Kandulski, which started with the words: 'I am pleased to announce.' Denis was forced to publish the memorial on social media after a local funeral home refused to do so. According to the daughter, Kandulski was an 'absentee father/husband/brother/son,' an 'abusive, narcissistic parent' and 'miserable human' who she was happy to see go. She wrote that after suffering multiple strokes - one 'thankfully leaving him unable to speak' - Kandulsi, 74, 'finally kicked the bucket.' In a follow up video, Denis thanked people for their support on the video of the obituary for her 'sperm donor,' which also received supportive comments. 'That was such a good obit, it speaks to our truth too, I wish we had the courage at the time. Thank you,' wrote one commenter on Denis' follow-up TikTok. Amanda Denis (pictured) recently published a scathing obituary for her deceased father, branding him as an 'abusive, narcissistic' parent and thanking a stroke for killing him This is the the obituary Denis published for her father, Stefan Harold Kandulski Kandulski died in Penticton, British Columbia after a multiple strokes. Denis, a resident of Ontario, said that her version of the obituary was rejected by her father's funeral home and that she then decided to publish it on her own. Talking with CTV, the woman said she knew what she had to do after hearing of her 'miserable' father's death earlier this year. 'I've never been one to mince words, I've always been an honest straight-shooter,' Denis said. 'So when I found out about my father's passing, I said, 'I guess I have to write an obituary' and that's what came out.' Additionally, she decided not to hold services for the deceased, because he 'treated people with disdain.' Before closing out the compelling and controversial obit, she thanked the staff at her father's hospital and his senior community for putting up with him. She also gave a special shout out to karma for 'doing what she does best.' In her interview with the Canadian outlet, she said that many of her earliest memories involved emotional and physical abuse from her father. Later in life, she decided to cut ties with him completely. 'I didn't want him to hurt anyone that I loved anymore, including myself,' she said. 'I've never been one to mince words, I've always been an honest straight-shooter,' Denis said. 'So when I found out about my father's passing, I said, 'I guess I have to write an obituary' and that's what came out.' Overall, Denis said she believes the obituary was the perfect final sendoff for the parent who she deemed unfit to be a father. 'Not all parents are good, and that's OK and it's OK to talk about,' she told Glacier Media. 'My father was absent, he was abusive, he was narcissistic.' 'There's just some people who aren't meant to be parents,' she said. The obituary - and her TikTok videos - really struck a cord online with others who have dealt with abusive parents or had significantly strained relationships. Hundreds of commenters have applauded the woman and shared their own stories in the comments of her videos. 'I can only imagine how cathartic writing that, was.' 'Wrote a letter to my mother we called the cold north wind. Everything thing I ever felt towards her I wrote. 10 pages .stuffed into her urn smiling.' 'I am sorry you had to experience this through your life. I applaud you for standing up for your family, and showing others they are not alone.' 'Im so sorry for the pain and anguish youve gone through. The obit was perfection.' This is the Penticton Regional Hospital where Kandulski died Denis said her hope is that others feel compelled to share their own stories and speak their truth when it comes to a painful topic. She urges others to go beyond the polished bits that typically appear on Facebook or Instagram and tell the real truth of their lives. 'We see the glorified lives that we all apparently live, but we don't get to see this stuff the stuff that matters, the stuff that hurts us, and the stuff that turns us into the people who we are today,' she said. Additionally, she said no one objected to her obituary in her family as they understood 'what kind of man he really was. The final message written in the obituary was a call to action, asking that in lieu of flowers: 'just be kind to your fellow human, spread light and love where you can, and do with your life what this man clearly lacked the ability to do.' At least three suspects were arrested Thursday in connection to the abduction Sergio Acevedo, the surviving 18-year-old, is hospitalized with a head injury and told his mother he didn't do anything 'wrong' Mexico is reeling in horror after six teen boys aged 14 to 18 were found slaughtered at a remote ranch in the central state of Zacatecas - with security forces locating just one survivor. The surviving teenager, identified as Sergio Acevedo, 18, and the other young men were found at a farm in Malpaso, a neighborhood in the municipality of the Villanueva, during a flight surveillance operation on Wednesday morning. The victims have been identified as: Diego Rodriguez, 17; Jorge Ocon, 14 and his cousin Hector Salcedo, 14; Gumaro Santacruz, 18; Oscar Rojas, 15; and Jesus Rodriguez, 18. Acevedo suffered a head and nose wound, and was rushed to Zacatecas General Hospital in the state capital, where he is being guarded by police, the Zacatecas Attorney General's Office said Wednesday afternoon. The horrifying discovery comes amid a shocking rise in mass abductions in Mexico - and just weeks after five college students were brutally murdered by cartel thugs, with one victim forced to decapitate his childhood friend. Authorities in the central Mexico state of Zacatecas located Sergio Acevedo on a farm on Wednesday. The 18-year-old is the only survivor among the seven teenagers who were kidnapped from a ranch in the Zacatecas municipality of Villanueva on Sunday Six teens were found dead at a ranch in Zacatecas on Wednesday, just three days after they were kidnapped. Pictured top row from left to right: Diego Rodriguez, Jorge Ocon and Hector Salcedo. Pictured bottom row from left to right: Gumaro Santacruz, Oscar Rojas and Jesus Rodriguez Security forces inspect the farm area where the bodies of six teenagers and a survivor were found Wednesday Survivor Acevedo is stable and under the supervision of a psychologist, authorities said. He told his mother, Karla Rodriguez, that 'he had done nothing wrong,' according to Mexican news outlet Milenio. 'Yes, he recognizes me, but he has no idea of time right now, maybe it's because of the beatings, I don't know,' Rodriguez said. 'He said that he is not up to bad things, he said: 'I have not done anything wrong.' I told him: 'I know, my son, I know.' She also denied comments made by Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who told reporters that Acevedo had been interviewed by investigators. 'It's not true, my son has not said anything, he is not well right now, he is sedated,' she said, as quoted by El Zol de Zacatecas newspaper. 'He has not declared anything nor has he spoken to anyone other than me.' The youngsters, who attended school and are not believed to be involved in gangs, were hanging out with a group of girls when a group of armed men raided a ranch in the neighborhood of La Soledad on Sunday around 5am. The property is located just 1,600 feet from a public security regional station. The teenagers were forced into vehicles, beaten and abandoned at a ranch nine miles away in the neighborhood of Malpaso. Masses and funeral services took place Thursday for Jesus Rodriguez and the five other teenagers who were kidnapped and murdered Sunday Law enforcement sources said the teenagers were kidnapped by Sinaloa cartel, which is at war with rivals over control of federal highway 54 that links Jalisco with the Pacific Ocean, according to news outlet Reforma. Zacatecas ministry of public security deployed 10 units consisting of 300 agents to search for the victims. Parents and friends of the missing teenagers blocked access to two highways on Tuesday in a bid to pressure authorities to speed up the search. The parents returned Wednesday to block another road and were there for an hour before they were informed of the findings. Authorities have arrested at least six people in connection with the kidnappings and murders. 'What happened in Zacatecas with the young people is regrettable,' Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. Funeral services were held for all of the victims on Thursday. One of Gumero Santacruz's family members, Jennifer, posted a tribute online that said: 'We will always remember you as the great person you were. You were a very good child with a big heart and that will always stay with us. Fly high. More flowers are coming to you now.' The families have also expressed frustration with Zacatecas officials, accusing them of holding back details of the ongoing investigation into the teenagers' deaths. 'I haven't even seen. I don't want to see them because they haven't shown their faces,' the father of Jorgo Ocon told Milenio. Zacatecas legislators held a special session Thursday, calling on Governor David Monreal to resign immediately. The state is among Mexico's most violent states where rival criminal gangs regularly clash over lucrative smuggling routes. More than 500 people were murdered during the first eight months of this year, according to government data Monreal met with reporters and said that kidnappings are a strategy employed by cartels in their turf wars with rivals and that victims are released when they notice they are not their targets. "It is a kind of modus operandi, sometimes as a dispute over territory, those from one cartel overpower another cartel," he said. A police cruiser performs surveillance of the ranch where the bodies of six teenagers and one survivor were located Wednesday, following their kidnapping from a farm Sunday morning A service was held Thursday afternoon for Jesus Rodriguez, an 18-year-old who along five other teenage friends were abducted by a cartel Sunday and found dead Wednesday in a ranch in Zacatecas, Mexico The incident is the latest tragic outcome in the wake of mass abductions of young people this year. In August, a gruesome video circulated on social media showing the last moments of five young men kidnapped in the neighboring state of Jalisco. In the video, a pair of bound, inert bodies are seen lying in the foreground. A youth seen bludgeoning and apparently decapitating another victim appears to be himself the fourth member of the kidnapped group of friends. At the height of Mexico's drug cartel brutality in the 2010s, gangs sometimes forced kidnap victims to kill each other. In 2010, one Mexican cartel abducted men from passenger buses and forced them to fight each other to death with sledgehammers. In May, as many as eight young workers were killed in Jalisco after they apparently tried to quit jobs at a call center operated by a violent drug cartel that targeted Americans in a real estate scam. Police have arrested two more people in relation to the investigation into the destruction of Britain's 'wonkiest pub'. Staffordshire Police confirmed they have detained a 34-year-old woman and a 44-year-old man from Leicestershire 'on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent or being reckless as to whether life was endangered'. The latest arrests took place on Wednesday and the pair have been released on conditional bail while detectives continue their investigation into the incident. The Crooked House pub in Himley, pictured, was destroyed by fire on August 5 It was later demolished two days later. Police have so far made five arrests in connection to the suspected arson attack on the historic building The Crooked House pub in Staffordshire has devastated by a fire on August 5 and the demolition of the site took place two days later. Earlier, Staffordshire Police arrested three men, aged 66, 51 and 33 on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. They were all released on bail pending further investigation. In its latest appeal, Staffordshire Police said: 'We are still asking those people who might have information which can help us to get in touch if they havent already. 'Call us on 101, or message us using Live Chat on our website. 'If you prefer to report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.' Elon Musk has revealed his support for a border wall, and claimed migrants should have evidence of their asylum claims before being admitted to the country. Just days after announcing an upcoming visit to crisis-hit Eagle Pass, Texas, Musk took to X, known as Twitter before he bought it, to address the thousands who have crossed into the US this month. The town of just 28,000 people has been overwhelmed by migrants in recent days, with border crossings rising to around 8,000 a day in the week ending September 22, according to the Washington Office of Latin America. Throughout the month of August, upwards of 232,000 migrants made their way over the US-Mexico border. 'We actually do need a wall, and we need to require people to have some shred of evidence to claim asylum to enter, as everyone is doing that,' the Tesla founder, 52, said on Wednesday. 'Its a hack that you can literally Google to know exactly what to say!' According to local reports, most of the asylum seekers are Venezuelans who say they had to leave their home country because of the economic and social collapse of the South American nation under the socialist regime of Nicolas Maduro. Elon Musk has announced he will go to Eagle Pass, Texas, later this week to observe the situation at the US-Mexico border Throughout the month of August, upwards of 232,000 migrants crossed the US-Mexico border - and up to two million are estimated to have crossed this year Musk said he would find out more about the situation when he visits Eagle Pass 'maybe as soon as' Thursday. He made the comments while replying to a video of Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy claiming he won't support funding for Ukraine until the government addresses the border crisis. 'The (USA) border needs to be secured. This is not a partisan issue even the elected Democrat Party leaders of New York are saying this is a severe crisis,' Musk added. He also clarified that while 'Most of the (very long) border is super inconvenient... the convenient parts of the border need walls and thats not hard.' It comes after Musk claimed on Tuesday that he had spoken to congressman Tony Gonzales, who has been sounding the alarm about the crisis, and decided to go see the scene for himself. 'I spoke with Rep Tony Gonzales tonight he confirmed that it is a serious issue,' Musk wrote on Tuesday. 'They are being overwhelmed by unprecedented numbers just hit an all-time high and still growing! Am going to visit Eagle Pass later this week to see whats going on for myself.' In a different post responding to a DailyMail.com video of chaos outside a migrant shelter in Staten Island, Musk said 'this is a severe crisis.' Eagle Pass Mayor Rolando Salinos declared a state of emergency over the crisis, but a document allegedly leaked by a Border Agent appears to show that the unprecedented number of arrivals is now making it impossible for them to effectively guard the crossing. Many migrants are the victims of elaborate multi-billion dollar human trafficking schemes that are run by drug cartels Officials have long said that the influx of migrants crossing the border illegally is directly linked to multi-billion dollar human trafficking schemes run by the notoriously violent Mexican drug cartels The report was shared by DC Examiner reporter Anna Giaritelli on X, who claimed that 'all Border Patrol agents have pulled to other duties (mainly processing migrants) so not a single agent will be in the field.' Giaritelli added that the agent who shared the document is 'pretty pi**** off about this', a sentiment echoed by Elon Musk as he revealed this week he is travelling to Eagle pass to help grapple with the 'serious issue.' According to the leaked document, which has not been independently verified by DailyMail.com, all Border Patrol agents in Eagle Pass are assigned to processing at various migrant centers. The memo adds that there should be nothing 'indicating any type of field deployment/ enforcement' at the border. The lack of any border patrol agents comes as officers struggle to cope with crossing numbers only matched by April 2023 levels, when pandemic-era immigration policy Title 42 ended. Harrowing images from the porous border show droves of migrants traversing difficult terrain and wading through the Rio Grande river. Families are seen clinging to each other, with some struggling to carry soaking wet bags of belongings across the water. After crossing from the Mexico side in Piedras Negras, the asylum seekers were met by law enforcement, including the National Guard, before they reached long lines of razor wire. Stunning images have shown droves of migrants traversing difficult terrain and wading through the Rio Grande river on their way over the southern border Officers were seen helping people through the terrain, including lifting small children exhausted by the journey to safety, while many migrants were pictured queuing up as they waited to be processed. Shelters in border towns like Eagle Pass have been stretched well over capacity due to the thousands of crossings every day. As officials scramble for solutions, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has led the movement to bus migrants to northern states to share the burden of ineffective border policies while bringing the crisis to national attention. In New York, where over 100,000 migrants have poured into the city, Mayor Eric Adams admitted this month that the influx could 'destroy' the Big Apple. But Salinas took aim at such comments as he slammed Biden's response to the influx in Eagle Pass, saying on social media this week: 'We're not a city that has the resources of New York, Chicago, cities like that. 'You already see big cities already complaining that they're getting large amounts of undocumented immigrants. I mean, we're Eagle Pass. We only have limited resources, so this is not sustainable. 'As a mayor, what's disappointing is that we haven't heard from the president of the United States or the vice president of the United States... 'To this day, I haven't heard of a concrete plan of action to stop this from continuing to happen. Sometimes, we feel kind of abandoned here at the at the border here in Eagle Pass.' A primary school teacher has denied sexually assaulting two young girls. Alex Withey, 29, is accused of assaulting his victims - who were both under the age of 13 - by touching them at Lakeside Primary Academy in London Road, Alvaston, Derby. Withey pleaded not guilty to both offences at Derby Crown Court on Thursday and was told he will face trial on April 7, 2025, estimated to last five days. Withey, of Oulton Close, Shelton Lock, Derby, was given conditional bail and was dressed in black trousers and a brown hoodie. The Harmony Trust, which runs the academy, has been approached for comment, but in a previous statement to the BBC, it said: 'We confirm that a former member of staff has been charged following a police investigation into their conduct. Primary school teacher Alex Withey, 29, is accused of assaulting two girls under the age of 13 He pleaded not guilty to the two offences - alleged to have occurred at Lakeside Primary Academy (pictured) in London Road, Alvaston, Derby 'That individual was suspended from work at the start of the police investigation and no longer works for The Harmony Trust. 'Given that there are ongoing criminal proceedings, it would be inappropriate for The Harmony Trust to comment further at this stage. 'The Harmony Trust takes the safeguarding, health and well-being of all its pupils very seriously and has robust procedures in place to protect them. 'Should any parents or carers of pupils at our academies have any concerns, we would ask them to contact the relevant academy directly.' Adjourning proceedings, Judge Shaun Smith KC said: 'I'm afraid your trial is a long way off. It is in April 2025, well over a year away. 'But this is just the way things are at the moment with the number of these cases that the courts have.' Withey, of Oulton Close, Shelton Lock, Derby, was given conditional bail and was dressed in black trousers and a brown hoodie Former first daughter Ivanka Trump is among the Trump family members prosecutors plan to call in the fraud trial set to start Monday in New York. She is among three Trump children listed as witnesses in the case, after Judge Arthur Engoron issued a stunning ruling finding Trump and his company committed fraud over a period of years. New York state AG Letitia James has sued Trump and his firm for $250 million in damages, in a trial where the penalty phase kicks off next week following Engoron's summary judgement ruling. Trump has attacked the judge as a 'Trump Hater' and fumed about the attack on his family business, amid uncertainty about whether the latest ruling would force him to liquidate his real estate and hospitality empire in the state. Prosecutors plan to call former first daughter Ivanka Trump as a witness in the Trump fraud case. She was a senior advisor in the Trump White House. As an employee of her father's company, she was involved in the lease of the Old Post Office for the former Trump hotel in D.C. Prosecutors also plan to call former Trump fixer Michael Cohen, who testified to Congress in 2019 and leveled charges that Trump would inflate assets' values when communicating with lenders, then cut them back in tax filings. Those alleged practices are at the heart of Engoron's ruling of fraud. He said Trump goosed his net worth by as much as $2 billion. Cohen celebrated Engoron's ruling this week by posting an online image of caviar. Also set to be called is former Trump Organization exec Allen Weisselberg, who pleaded guilty to tax fraud last year. Under a plea agreement he will serve five months in prison in exchange for testimony. Trump's defense team plans to call 128 witnesses, NBC reported. Trump Organization exec Eric Trump fired off a series of angry tweets hitting back at the ruling, which also hits at any entity controlled or beneficially owned by his father, him, and Donald Trump Jr. Ivanka Trump testified during AG James' probe. She worked on deals including the lease of the Old Post Office, which served as a political hub when it was a Trump hotel during the Trump administration Prosecutors also plan to call former Trump fixer Michael Cohen, who posted an image of caviar following Judge Arthur Engoron's ruling of fraud The defense plans to call former President Trump and his sons Don Jr. and Eric Trump (l) 'As absurd as this case is, Judge Engoron knows that I have done absolutely nothing wrong. Any impartial judge looking at the facts, and extensive testimony, would have never allowed my name to be dragged through the mud. Frankly, its cruel,' he posted on X, the former Twitter site Wednesday. That came after a Tuesday post, where he wrote: 'While everyone can see that this case is egregious, the only thing worse than weaponizing the legal system against a political opponent is unfairly going after their family. Both the Attorney General and the Judge know I had absolutely NOTHING to do with this case.' Online critics noted that Eric Trump reportedly took the 5th Amendment 500 times when he was deposed in the case. A California city has been accused of paying over the odds for a former gun store - in order to stop another arms seller from moving in. The Democrat led council in Culver City admitted that $6.5million was 'on the high end' for the tatty-looking premises which shut up shop this month after 65 years. 'When I met with you, I said find some rich philanthropic person that is willing to do this,' council member Goran Eriksson told campaigners as the deal was announced. 'I didn't know the city was going to be the "rich philanthropic person."' The store which attracted a surge of business during the pandemic attracted the attention of lawmakers after the California Department of Justice identified it as one of the state's top sources of guns that were illegally owned or used. The Martin B Retting Gun Store on Washington Boulevard has been a landmark in California's Culver City for generations It benefits from an exemption 2005 statute banning gun shops near primary schools, but critics fear the city council has paid too much to keep it out of action Mayor Albert Vera and vice-mayor Yasmine Imani-McMorrin insisted the $6,5million was money well-spent Owners of the Martin B Retting Gun Store on Washington Boulevard announced they were selling up in July to enjoy their retirement. 'Despite having overcome and flourished after everything the firearms industry could throw at us, it turns out that the one thing we can't defeat is the inevitable march of time,' they said in a letter to customers. The store was sited near La Ballona Elementary School and benefited from an exemption to a 2005 city ordinance banning gun stores within 1,000 feet of a school. But campaigners were alarmed to discover that the exemption applied to the building, not the business, leaving a new gun store free to open. 'They had concerns about their families' well-being,' vice-mayor Yasmine Imani-Mcmorrin told KTLA. 'We always had a lot of concern about guns being so close to our school,' confirmed Megan Oddsen, a member of Culver 878. 'It is an investment in the safety of this community and our kids.' But even some gun opponents said the price tag was significantly over the market rate to keep the place shut. 'I am not a Second Amendment proponent by any stretch of the imagination, however I am a proponent of good government,' resident Gary Zeiss told the meeting. 'There's no evidence that the value of the property is in any way proportional to the value of other properties in the area. Yasmine-Imani McMorrin is the first African American woman elected to the Culver City City Council and has been a prominent campaigner for gun control It did a roaring trade during the pandemic but has shut after 65 years because its owners are retiring The firm was cited in a California Department of Justice report last year as one of the state's top ten sources for illegally owned or used weapons 'This is bad governance hiding under a social issue that needs to be addressed, no question.' The council admitted it had no plans for what to do with the building but said it would be put to community use and the first job would be painting over the prominent firearms livery that has been a landmark of the town for generations. 'The City's decision to purchase the building is in large part from listening to the community and its desire to have a different use for that location,' mayor Albert Vera said. 'It will be an involved process with the community on the next steps for that building and what it ultimately will become.' #Peru: #CIDH expresa preocupacion por investigacion contra la Junta Nacional de Justicia y llama al respeto del debido proceso.#DerechosHumanos ???? https://t.co/YlxBW9WW97 pic.twitter.com/j6LkRKg5Wh Rishi Sunak tonight put distance between himself and Suella Braverman as he repeatedly refused to back her claim that multiculturalism has 'failed'. The Prime Minister, when asked about his Home Secretary's views, instead pointedly praised Britain as a 'fantastic multicultural democracy'. Mrs Braverman this week delivered a hardline speech on migration to a think-tank event in Washington DC during a visit to the US. She claimed the 'misguided dogma of multiculturalism' had 'failed because it allowed people to come to our society and live parallel lives in it'. The Home Secretary suggested it has allowed them to 'pursue lives aimed at undermining the stability and threatening the security of our society'. Rishi Sunak put distance between himself and Suella Braverman as he repeatedly refused to back her claim that multiculturalism has 'failed' The Prime Minister, when asked about his Home Secretary's views, instead pointedly praised Britain as a 'fantastic multicultural democracy' Downing Street is said to have signed off Mrs Braverman's speech before she delivered it. But Mr Sunak, the first British PM of Indian heritage, this evening declined to endorse the Home Secretary's comments. Asked by BBC East Midlands if he agreed with her, the PM said: 'I think that this is something that is incredible about this country, is that it is a fantastic multicultural democracy. 'We have done an incredible job of integrating people into society and one of the lovely things about getting the job I have, as the first person from my background to hold this job, that's a wonderful thing, but it's also not a big deal in our country. 'I think that speaks to the progress we've made over the years and how far we've come and something we should all be collectively incredibly proud of.' Asked if Mrs Braverman was wrong, Mr Sunak said it is 'important that everyone subscribes to British values' but that he believes 'our country has done an incredibly good job of integrating people from lots of different backgrounds'. The Home Secretary's speech was widely viewed as an attempt to boost her chances of becoming the next Conservative leader. But Mrs Braverman dismissed such suggestions as 'slightly flippant' and insisted she was working 'hand-in-hand' with Mr Sunak. A knife used in the brutal murder of a British man at a remote Portuguese commune was cleaned and placed in the communitys shared kitchen, MailOnline has learned. Plumber Josh Menkens, 27, is accused of stabbing an unnamed 37-year-old British man multiple times in an 'exceptional' display of violence before 'desecrating' the body and attempting to hide it, according to police. An unusually graphic statement detailing exceptional violence was released by the Policia Judiciaria last night after Menkens, from Welwyn, Hertforshire, was remanded in custody over the killing which took place early on Sunday morning. But a source at the Libelinha Venture commune near Pedragao Grande, central Portugal said the police later found the murder weapon in the communes kitchen. It had been cleaned of blood and put with the other knives, said the source. Police claim that Menkens lured his alleged victim into woodland and later tried to cover his tracks by concealing the blood-stained body of the 37-year-old British man with leaves and clothing. Plumber Josh Menkens, 27, is accused of stabbing an unnamed 37-year-old British man multiple times in an 'exceptional' display of violence (pictured: Menkens leaving Tribunal de Comarca de Leira in Portugal on 27 September) But shortly afterwards, Menkens is said by police to have confessed to his involvement in the attack to the owner of the commune, British expat, privately-educated Xavier Hancock, who runs the eco-village. The off-grid Libelinha is nestled into the rolling forest valleys of Pedrogao Grande in the centre of the country and includes 24-acres of wide-open woodland, hills and shrubbery. Menkens is believed to have rented land from Mr Hancock for around 3,000 to hold a mini-festival called the Mad Hatters Tea Party last week, but the event was a wash-out because of heavy rain and many guests cancelled, according to the source. A Portuguese journalist who visited the commune the day after Menkens arrest was told by the source there that the suspect was upset about the festivals failure and went off for a day to spend some time alone. The festival hadnt worked out, but no one blamed him, said the source. I guess he was afraid he wouldnt recoup his costs. He went off on his own for a while towards the end of the week, but we didnt think much of it. On Sunday morning at about 6.30am, the man we now know as Josh Menkens went to Xavier, the communes owner and told him hed killed someone. Xavier didnt believe it and wanted to see the body for himself, so he went with others and when they saw it, they called the police. Everyone on the commune is really upset about what happened. We dont even know the victims name, only a nickname. Today Xavier Hancock told MailOnline: At the moment, as this is an active investigation, we are only going to be answering questions from the authorities as were giving them our full co-operation. His head covered by a coat, Menkens was hustled into an unmarked police car as he left the Tribunal de Comarca de Leira in Portugal Josh Menkens is pictured with a coat over his head as he entered Tribunal de Comarca de Leira in Portugal Josh Menkens' farther Troy Menkens leaving Tribunal de Comarca de Leira in Portugal yesterday Father Troy Menkens is pictured with his son Josh Menkens who has been arrested in Portugal after he was accused of stabbing an unnamed 37-year-old British man multiple times in an 'exceptional' display of violence before 'desecrating' the body We dont want to put ourselves in the position of affecting the case. The news came as Menkens father expressed his heartfelt condolence to the family of the victim. Businessman Troy Menkens, 52, told MailOnline that reading the police statement accusing his son of the murder was obviously painful. But he added: It made me realise that all my frustration with the system over here is nothing compared to the anguish this other family must be experiencing. Mr Menkens said he had only been able to have the briefest conversations with his son so far via a mobile phone handed to him by the police. He spent two days waiting outside the criminal court in Leiria for news, while a judge interviewed his son, but said he wasnt even able to speak to his sons court-appointed lawyer. Menkens was one of the organisers of a mini-festival known as the Mad Hatter's Tea Party last weekend near a remote commune known as Libelinha Venture The off-grid Libelinha is nestled into the rolling forest valleys of Pedrogao Grande in the centre of the country and includes 24-acres of wide-open woodland, hills and shrubbery Arial view of Libelinha Venture, where it believed murder Victim was staying Police found the body of a British man in remote woodland between the localities of Poco Negro and Soalheira Police found the victim's body in remote woodland between the localities of Poco Negro and Soalheira, near to the central town of Pedrogao Grande, on Sunday. File image of area near Pedrogao Grande Mr Menkens snr also has no idea of the identity of the man allegedly killed by his son, and the victims name has not been released by police in Portugal. Police said that they believed he and Menkens did not know each other. Menkens was one of the organisers of a mini-festival known as the Mad Hatter's Tea Party last weekend. Initial reports after the suspect handed himself in to police pointed to the death occurring during a row while a group of friends were playing the notorious Blue Whale suicide game - but this was ruled out by investigators. The unusually hard-hitting statement released by the Policia Judiciaria (PJ), whose detectives have been probing the fatal stabbing said: 'The defendant, a foreigner and organizer of a party on a rural property, took the victim to an isolated forest location where, armed with a knife, he attacked him with exceptional violence stabbing him in several areas of the body and causing his death. 'After committing the homicide, the suspect hid the body using tree branches and pieces of clothing. 'Later, he revealed the acts he had committed to the other participants of the party. 'After confirming their veracity, they went to the GNR in Pedrogao Grande along with the suspect to report what had happened. 'The victim, a 37-year-old foreign man had travelled to Portugal to participate in the event and apparently did not know the defendant personally. 'It has not yet been possible to determine the motive for the crimes, but any relationship with games or online challenges has initially been ruled out. 'The 27-year-old detainee was present during his first judicial interrogation which resulted in his preventive detention.' Outside court on Wednesday his father, Troy, insisted his son was 'kind and caring' and not capable of murder. He revealed the moment his distraught son phoned him from a police station late on Sunday night, following his arrest. Mr Menkens told MailOnline: 'I got a call from him out of the blue, just before midnight on Sunday. 'My son was talking at a million miles an hour, in a head-melt, firing stuff at me. I was trying to be as calm as I could and find out where he was being held and how I could get there.' A war veteran who had no known family was given a hero's send off after more than 70 mourners made up of a large bike escort and fellow servicemen rallied to pay their final respects. Ronald Knights - who was affectionately known to many as Ron or 'Fuzzy' - was living in a supported housing complex, with little to no family or friends left, before he died at the age of 90 in Ipswich Hospital, Suffolk on July 7. After his sad death, funeral director David Button was concerned that Mr Knights, who saw active duty in the Suffolk Regiment, might have a public health funeral with no mourners. Public health funerals are arranged by the local council for people who have passed away and have no next of kin, or whose next of kin, relatives or friends are unable or unwilling to make the necessary arrangements for a funeral. Determined that Mr Knights would not set out on his final journey alone, Mr Button took action, calling upon the assistance of ex-military man Jay Lorenz, who has organised many biker escorts for funerals in the past. A plea was put out for mourners and military personnel to attend Ronald Knights' funeral in Felixstowe, Suffolk which took place yesterday. More than 70 mourners made up of a large bike escort and fellow servicemen rallied to pay their final respects Ronald Knights, who was affectionately known to many as Ron or 'Fuzzy', died at the age of 90 in Ipswich Hospital, Suffolk on July 7 And after cooperation between the funeral director and a veteran who served alongside Mr Knights, a large crowd of strangers turned up to pay their respects. Organiser Jay Lopez, said: 'In the escort, there were many veterans as well as general bikers. 'They just wanted to bring it together for a guy we never knew, but at the end of the day, he served in the same regiment as we did.' Mr Knights, was familiar to many people in Felixstowe, where he lived for more than 20 years. He served in the armed forces for 12 years and saw active duty in the Suffolk Regiment, which is now known as the Royal Anglian Regiment. The funeral that took place on Wednesday, September 27, was attended by about 70 people, including about 35 motorbikers. Mr Lorenz said: 'David and I are both ex-military, as we served at the same battalion in the 90s. Mr Knights served in the armed forces for 12 years and saw active duty in the Suffolk Regiment, which is now known as the Royal Anglian Regiment And after cooperation between the funeral director and a veteran who served alongside Mr Knights, a large crowd of strangers turned up to pay their respects The funeral that took place on Wednesday, September 27, was attended by about 70 people, including about 35 motorbikers While there was no family in attendance today, and to see the motorbike community come together as well as ex-service personnel Mr Knights was given a hero's send-off after passing away at 90, leaving no family behind Mr Knights' coffin was draped in the Union flag with flowers placed on top as the war hero made his final journey, watched by mourning strangers After his sad death, funeral director David Button was concerned that Mr Knights, who saw active duty in the Suffolk Regiment, would have a pubic health funeral with no mourners A legion of military personnel came to pay their respects at the funeral of Mr Knights A medal was placed on top of Mr Knights coffin in memory of his service and bravery 'We approached this funeral like a military operation. 'This ceremony was organised by two veterans for a veteran. We did it our way. 'It was the only right way to give Mr Knights the proper send-off.' Mr Button added: 'There was no family in attendance today, and to see the motorbike community come together as well as ex-service personnel was truly lovely to witness. 'The alternative to today's service would have been a public health cremation with absolutely no one in attendance. 'It was a lovely send-off for a gentleman who enjoyed life and was thought so fondly of by so many.' Barry Grunnell, who knew Mr Knights for three decades and is chairman of the Felixstowe branch of the Royal Anglian Regiment's veterans association, told BBC News: 'It's not right that someone goes through so much for their country and then is totally forgotten, and I couldn't let that happen. 'He was an all-round good guy. He wouldn't believe this was his funeral - he would be really happy.' Helen Ashford, a friend of Mr Knights, also told the BBC that Mr Knights 'always looked on the bright side of life'. She added: 'I was really sad at the thought there might only be four or five people here, but I'm overwhelmed with how many people have turned up for him. 'He would have been so proud and chuffed to bits.' The heartbroken mother of a bright 15-year-old girl broke down in tears tonight as tributes were paid to her 'thoughtful, kind daughter' who was knifed to death on her way to school. Aspiring lawyer Elianne Andam died yesterday morning after being stabbed in the neck outside the Whitgift Centre in Croydon, South London. Tonight, shocked friends and family of the schoolgirl gathered where the teenager died for an emotional vigil, listening to memories of the girl described as a 'beautiful person inside and out'. She was said to be very close to her six-year-old brother, Micaiah. Distraught relatives arrived in a fleet of cars from their home half-a-mile away at 6pm before being escorted through the police cordon by officers. Her heartbroken mother, NHS children's nurse Dorcas Andam, was consoled by her husband Michael, crying as they try to 'comprehend this painful tragedy'. The parents left after 15 minutes while 30 relatives, including the teenager's aunts and cousins, stayed as more flowers and cards piled up on the side of the road. Metropolitan Police officers, some who attended the horrific incident yesterday, were seen laying flowers at the vigil - while others appeared to be overcome with emotion, being comforted by their colleagues. The 'intelligent' teenager was killed at 8.30am yesterday on route to the private Old Palace of John Whitgift School after she reportedly stood up for a friend who was involved in a heated row with an ex-boyfriend. This evening a 17-year-old boy remains in custody in a police station in south London after being arrested on suspicion of murder. He was apprehended just 75 minutes after Elianne was attacked on a tram five miles away in New Addington. Police officers have now been given a further 12 hours to quiz the suspect, with the Metropolitan Police saying they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident. Elianne Andam was on her way to school when she was attacked in Wellesley Road at approximately 08:30am on Wednesday Dorcas Andam, in the black-and-white dress, arrived at the scene in Croydon where her 15-year-old daughter Elianne was stabbed to death on Wednesday morning Bishop of Croydon, right, Rosemarie Mallett, read aloud a statement written by the family shortly before 7pm. Elianne's parents were seen comforted by 30 members of her family, including cousins and aunts NHS children's nurse Dorcas Andam, wearing a black and white dress, was consoled by her husband Michael and 30 relatives A female officer is comforted by her colleague as they attended the vigil this afternoon Mourners laid flowers at the spot where Elianne was stabbed to death yesterday morning on her way to school Officers, some of whom attended the incident yesterday morning, were seen laying flowers at the scene Speaking at the vigil on behalf of the family Bishop of Croydon Rosemarie Mallett, who was flanked by Elianne's tearful aunt Marian, said: 'We as a family are struggling to comprehend this painful tragedy that has happened to our beautiful daughter and beloved sister Elianne. 'Our hearts are broken. And we are overwhelmed by sorrow and grief. Our faith in the Lord is strengthening us. We would like to express our gratitude to those who have taken the time to send us thoughtful and compassionate messages and prayers. ... 'Elianne was a beautiful person inside and out who loved Jesus. She was intelligent, thoughtful, kind and had a bright future ahead. It is our request that you keep our cherished daughter Elianne and our family, in your thoughts and prayers. 'We kindly ask for your consideration to also respect our need for privacy as we attempt to come to grips with our deeply devastating loss.' Bishop Mark Nicholson, from Croydon's Acts Christian Church, who just moments before had led a community vigil by the police cordon, was summoned by Elianne's mother to join in prayers. Elianne was reportedly attacked after a row broke out on the No 60 bus during rush hour yesterday morning, before spilling onto the street near East Croydon station. The teenage boy, who wore a black blazer, is said to have stabbed the schoolgirl in the neck and chest with a 'sword-like' zombie knife after the victim tried to break up a fight between him and her friend. According to witnesses, the friend had rejected his love letter and flowers leading to an argument. Forensic scientists were later seen picking up blood stained red roses and a note from the ground, taking them away from the scene. The family said in a statement: 'We, as a family are struggling to comprehend this painful tragedy that has happened to our beautiful daughter and beloved sister Elianne.' Elianne's aunt Marian (pictured in the beige cardigan) was consoled as they looked at the bus the teenager had been sat on moments before she was killed Young men and women were seen carrying flowers and leaving tributes to Elianne Elianne's mother, far right, and family arrived at the vigil where she was murdered in Croydon Elianne's devastated mother arrived at the vigil with her family and stayed only a short while A bus driver and passenger battled to save Elianne but she tragically died on the pavement minutes after the attack. Her family, who had been called to the scene, rushed down to the bus stop but she died at 9.21am - before they could say goodbye. Earlier in the evening, community leaders Anthony King, Donna Murray-Turner and James Watkins addressed a crowd of 50 well wishers. Mr King, who runs My Ends, said: 'Many narratives have gone out in relation to what happened. 'Regardless of what happened this was a 15 year old girl with a bright future ahead of her. 'She went to a brilliant school where so many children have come today and laid flowers. 'We have tried hard over the last few years to reduce knife crime we will not stop in that pursuit. 'We won't stop until we can get rid of this. 'The family are absolutely grieving a child's life hasn't even started at 15.' Ms Murray-Turner, chairwoman of the local Safer Neighbourhood Board, told crowds that Elianne's friends were 'sobbing' and 'so emotional' at her school on Thursday. She said she read messages in a book of condolence and they 'talk about her laugh'. She added: 'Staff, teachers, talked about when she entered a room you knew she was there. And her friends, as you can imagine, were sobbing. They were so emotional.' Police officers lay flowers at the scene in Croydon, south London, where 15-year-old Elianne Andam was stabbed to death on Wednesday Tonight tearful family and friends of Elianne gathered for a vigil after the aspiring lawyer was murdered on her way to school A community vigil was held at Wellesley Road in Croydon where Elianne Andam was murdered A young man lays a bunch of flowers in tribute to Elianne Andam who died yesterday Relatives of murdered 15-year-old Elianne Andam react as they visit the scene of her murder at a bus stop, outside the Whitgift Centre on Wellesley Road Locals pray at the scene where Elianne Andam was fatally stabbed on September 28 Elianne died at the scene at 09:21. An arrest was made at 09:45 and he is likely to have been known to the victim A 17-year-old boy, who knew the victim, was arrested just over an hour after the attack Tearful members of the public joined a vigil for Elianne as prayers were said Those who attended the vigil were seen hugging each other A police cordon was held up to let family and friends of Elianne walk to the spot where she had been killed Elianne's mother, dressed in a black and white dress, was supported by friends, family and police officers at the vigil Ms Murray-Turner added that a meeting will be held at Croydon Town Hall on Monday at 6pm, where the agenda will be about violence against women and girls. Earlier today it was revealed that Elianne said 'I'm not afraid to die, I'm going to heaven,' just one day before she was stabbed to death. One of her close friends, who goes by bethkayyx on TikTok, said: 'We were talking about death and she said 'I'm not afraid to die, I'm going to heaven and that's that'. She added that Elianne 'always talked' about how she 'wasn't afraid' to die and was a 'heavenly believer'. Paying tribute to her beloved friend on the online video sharing platform, she described their close bond and the devastation she has faced since yesterday morning. A forensic investigator onboard the bus where the argument is believed to have started Privacy screens and a tent outside the Whitgift centre in Croydon while a bus sits beside the pavement nearby Forensic officers walk past the scene, which features several privacy screens Elianne is the 15th teenage homicide victim in London so far in 2023. London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley have both visited the scene of the killing. Metropolitan Police Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain said police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident. A 17-year-old boy, who knew the victim, was arrested just over an hour after the attack, which happened in busy Wellesley Road. He remains in police custody after officers were given more time to question him. 'This is every parent's worst nightmare, and I know the officers who responded this morning, along with our emergency service colleagues, are devastated at the victim's death,' Spt Brittain said. 'This is an emotion I share and I know people across Croydon will be feeling the same. 'The victim's family has been informed and our thoughts are with them at what must be an incredibly difficult time. 'We carried out urgent inquiries to find the suspect and within 75 minutes of the incident happening a 17-year-old boy was arrested in New Addington. He remains in custody and will be questioned by detectives. 'We remain in the early stages of our investigation, however based on what we know so far we believe that we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this offence. 'From our initial inquiries, we believe the suspect may have known the victim. However, we're not in a position to release the victim's identity at this time.' Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Woodsford, who is leading the investigation, said: 'My thoughts and the thoughts of my team are with Elianne's family. 'This is a deeply upsetting time for them and we will do everything we can to support them.' She said officers are making 'good progress' in their investigation and are confident the attack happened near the bus stop rather than on a bus. Police were seen on Thursday afternoon searching a drain in front of a bus parked within the cordon and also searching long grass earlier in the day. The Prime Minister said he is shocked and appalled at Elianne's death and said sentences for knife-related crimes should be toughened. Rishi Sunak told BBC London's political editor Tim Donovan: 'Everyone will be looking at that and be shocked as I am, appalled by what's happened and, quite frankly, angry. It just illustrates the importance of clamping down on knife crime.' Witnesses or anyone with information can contact police on 101, quoting reference CAD 1601/27Sep. To remain anonymous, contact the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online. This is the final resting place of Mafia godfather Matteo Messina Denaro a gangster who gruesomely boasted how he had 'filled a cemetery' with his victims. Ruthless Denaro, 61, died earlier this week from colon cancer and he spent 30 years on the run before finally being arrested in January as he turned up for a medical appointment. The infamous Don is said to have murdered at least 50 people including an eleven-year-old boy after his father had turned informant. Police had sealed off the cemetery at Castelvetrano, south of Palermo, for his funeral and only 13 family members were allowed inside to see his coffin placed in the family's vault. The marble and stained-glass mausoleum is easily the most expensive in the cemetery and also holds the body of his father Francesco Messina Denaro, who died aged 78 in 1998. Castelvetrano cemetery where the mafia boss' body was entombed in a mausoleum The marble and stained-glass mausoleum is easily the most expensive in the cemetery Police had sealed off the cemetery at Castelvetrano, south of Palermo, for his funeral and only 13 family members were allowed inside to see his coffin placed in the family's vault Ruthless mafia boss Matteo Messina Denaro who spent 30 years on the run for allegedly murdering 50 people died of cancer aged 61 He died on the run and associates left his body complete in a dapper suit for police to find so he could have a proper burial. MailOnline was the first media organisation inside the cemetery after authorities reopened it and found a single pink flower attached to the iron door, as well as lighted candle on the step. Denaro had specifically asked for a non-religious ceremony and in note left for his family had requested yellow long-stemmed roses to be placed on his wooden casket. Local police chief Salvatore La Rosa had vetoed the request for a public service to be held and a cortege to pass through the town over public order fears. In one of his final pizzini secret notes passed to trusted collaborators Denaro had set out his funeral request and also paid tribute to his father. He said:' My father was my world. His cause was mine; it was as if I was a magnet in a magnetic field. 'With an unbreakable devotion I held onto him, as if he were a piece of wood floating in an ocean of contradictions, circling my world, his world, our world.' As part of his funeral requests Denaro dubbed 'The Last Godfather' had also asked for a marble angel that was indie the mausoleum to be removed. Denaro's home (pictured) with his mother's green Fiat car parked outside Denaro lived in the village of Castelvetrano and used his powers to intimidate business owners A source said:' He never liked the statue his fear was that police would hide a listening device in it and he feared they would eavesdrop at his funeral and other family members.' Unlike other tombs in the sun-baked cemetery, the doors are opaque and invisible to outsiders and while many other graves are run down and abandoned his is perfectly maintained. As one local told MailOnline: ' His tomb is the perfect place for a meeting to go unobserved.' Denaro's brother-in-law Vincenzo Panicola, who was only recently released from jail, was at the funeral but his wife Denaro's sister Patrizia was barred from attending as she is still serving time. His elderly mother Lorenza was also nowhere to be seen and is thought to have watched the arrival of her son's hearse on TV in the family's home on the outskirts of Castelvetrano. Mausoleum also holds the body of his father Francesco Messina Denaro, who died aged 78 in 1998 Other attendees included his sisters Bice and Giovanna, his brother Salvatore and his daughter Lorenza Alagna, who had only recently met him following his capture. He was nicknamed The Devil because he helped organise the kidnapping and killing of 12-year-old Giuseppe Di Matteo in 1993 after his dad turned informer. The keen horse rider and altar boy was held in captivity for two years before being killed and his body dissolved in acid. As if this wasn't horrendous enough, he is also said to have murdered rival boss Vincenzo Milazzo before then strangling his victim's pregnant girlfriend to death as well. Denaro had specifically asked for a non-religious funeral even though the Catholic Church forbids one for gangsters although it has emerged three nuns had wanted to say prayers for him. One of them, Mother Donatella, told Italian media:' We know full well what he did but he was still a child of God. 'We wanted to pray for him, in spite of everything that he did but the police wouldn't let us. He may not have wanted a religious funeral, but every soul has the right to be saved.' California fast food workers will be paid at least $20 per hour next year under a new law signed Thursday by Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom. They will have among the highest minimum wages in the country when the law takes effect on April 1, according to the University of California-Berkeley Center for Labor Research and Education. The state's minimum wage for all other workers - $15.50 per hour - is already among the highest in the United States. Cheering fast food workers and labor leaders gathered around Newsom as he signed the bill at at the Service Employees International Union in Los Angeles. 'This is a big deal,' Newsom said. California Gov. Gavin Newsom signs the fast food bill surrounded by fast food workers at the SEIU Local 721 in Los Angeles, on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. Anneisha Williams, right, who works at a Jack in the Box restaurant in Southern California celebrates as she holds up the bill Fast food workers and union activists demonstrate outside the California State Capitol to rally support for legislation to increase fast-food worker wages on Friday, Sept. 15, 2023, in Sacramento, California Newsom's signature reflects the power and influence of labor unions in the nation's most populous state, which have worked to organize fast food workers in an attempt to improve their wages and working conditions. It also settles - for now, at least - a fight between labor and business groups over how to regulate the industry. In exchange for higher pay, labor unions have dropped their attempt to make fast food corporations liable for the misdeeds of their independent franchise operators in California, an action that could have upended the business model on which the industry is based. The industry, meanwhile, has agreed to pull a referendum related to worker wages off the 2024 ballot. 'This is for my ancestors. This is for all the farm works, all the cotton-pickers. This is for them. We ride on their shoulders,' said Anneisha Williams, who works at a Jack in the Box restaurant in Southern California. California's fast food workers earn an average of $16.60 per hour, or just over $34,000 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's below the California Poverty Measure for a family of four, a statistic calculated by the Public Policy Institute of California and the Stanford Center on Poverty and Equality that accounts for housing costs and publicly-funded benefits. In California, most fast food workers are over 18 and the main providers for their family, according to Enrique Lopezlira, director of the University of California-Berkeley Labor Centers Low Wage Work Program. The $20 minimum wage is just a starting point. The law creates a fast food council that has the power to increase that wage each year through 2029 by 3.5 percent or the change in averages for the U.S. Consumer Price Index for urban wage earners and clerical workers, whichever is lower. The raise takes effect on April 1 and applies to workers at restaurants that have at least 60 locations nationwide - with an exception for restaurants that make and sell their own bread, like Panera Bread. Newsom kisses Anneisha Williams, right, who works at a Jack in the Box restaurant in Southern California Now, the focus will shift to another group of low-wage California workers waiting for their own minimum wage increase. Lawmakers passed a separate bill earlier this month that would gradually raise the minimum wage for health care workers to $25 per hour over the next decade. That raise wouldnt apply to doctors and nurses, but to most everyone else who works at hospitals, dialysis clinics or other health care facilities. But unlike the fast food wage increase - which Newsom helped negotiate - the governor has not said if he would sign the raise for health care workers. The issue is complicated by the states Medicaid program, which is the main source of revenue for many hospitals. The Newsom administration has estimated the wage increase would cost the state billions of dollars in increased payments to health care providers. Labor unions that support the wage increase point to a study from the University of California-Berkeley Labor Center that said the states costs would be offset by a reduction in the number of people relying on publicly funded assistance programs. Laurence Fox tonight apologised for his 'demeaning' sexist rant about political journalist Ava Evans in a Twitter video - before insisting that 'any self-respecting man should run a mile from' her. The actor-turned-activist sparked a backlash after making a series of remarks about political correspondent Ms Evans, which included asking 'who would want to sh*g that?' during a discussion on Dan Wootton Tonight on Tuesday. Fox said he was angry with Ms Evans over comments she made on a BBC debate around male suicide and alleged she had a 'dislike of men in general', but apologised for 'demeaning her'. Addressing the situation in a video posted to X, formerly known as Twitter, he said: 'If I was going to be sensible and I could replay it, I would say: 'Any self-respecting man in 2023 would probably be well advised to avoid a woman who possessed that world view because she would probably cause him nothing but harm'. 'But what I did say was, you know, 'I wouldn't shag that', and all that sort of stuff, which is not right. It's demeaning to her, to Ava, so I'm sorry for demeaning you in that way. However angry I am with you still for doing that, and it demeans me because it's not representative of who I am.' He also said he expected to be sacked by GB News on Friday over the incident, adding: 'I know I'm going to get sacked tomorrow. I'm saying this stuff to clear my own conscience.' Speaking of GB News' role, Fox added: 'GB News have opened themselves up for complete destruction, as far as I can tell, because they branded themselves as the home of free speech. Now, if you're the home of free speech then what they could easily have done was say 'Look what Laurence said was appalling, reprehensible but he's got the right to say it, it's is his opinion. Could he have expressed it better? Yes'.' He said that he feels the channel is 'actually the home of cancel culture, and they're probably more at risk of cancel culture than any other channel'. The exchange saw both Fox and Wootton suspended from the channel while an internal investigation takes place. Media watchdog Ofcom has also launched a probe into the channel after it received 7,300 complaints from viewers. Laurence Fox has apologised for his 'demeaning', sexist rant about political journalist Ava Evans - before insisting 'any self-respecting man should run a mile from' her The discussion came after Ava Evans (pictured) appeared on BBC 's Politics Live on Monday Fox said: 'The point I should have made is men who are men - traditionally stoic men - should probably avoid women who don't like them very much and who dismiss male suicide, tweeting things like I want to be socially distanced from men and wear a mask against the threat of men. 'Any self respecting man of 2023 would be well advised to avoid a woman who holds that worldview because she probably will cause him nothing but harm. 'I did say I wouldn't sh*g and it's not right and it was demeaning to Ava, so I am sorry to offend you in that way.' The suspended presenter went on to add that he was not making the apology to clear his name because he already knows he's 'going to get sacked tomorrow', adding that he wanted to 'clear' his 'conscience'. Laurence Fox (right) spoke about Ava Evans during Dan Wootton (left) Tonight on Tuesday It comes after Ava Evans made comments about men's mental health and suicide on the BBC's Politics Live on Monday, in which she dismissed calls for a dedicated minister on the issue Closing his video, Fox once again spoke about Ms Evans, he said: 'To get us out of this problem where we have a lot of weak men, we need some strong men, and in my cack-handed way I was trying to make the point that any self respecting men should run a mile from Ava, which with all due respect, I stand by. What did Laurence Fox say on GB News? Laurence Fox: 'We're past the watershed so I can say this: show me a single self-respecting man that would like to climb into bed with that woman, ever, ever, who wasn't an incel? 'That little woman has been fed, spoon-fed oppression day after day after day... starting with the lie of the gender wage gap, and she's sat there and I'm going, if I met you in a bar and that was like sentence three, chances of me just walking away are just huge. 'We need powerful strong amazing women who make great points for themselves, we don't need these sort of feminist 4.0... they're pathetic and embarrassing. 'Who would want to sh*g that?' Advertisement 'I think what I am trying to say is that I could have expressed it in a better way.' Evans revealed that she had faced direct threats on social media and had been told to 'watch my back' following Fox's comments. She added that there are 'certain people who are now threatening to come after me' following his rant on Wootton's show. She told ITV's Good Morning Britain that she was 'deeply embarrassed by all of it' and appreciated 'everyone who has very kindly stood up for me'. Evans added: 'Half of the comments are very lovely and supportive, and then the other side are very threatening. I'm somehow part of this global agenda that is trying to bring down men, and I hate all men and therefore I need to watch my back and be very careful because there are certain people who now are threatening to come after me. 'Sorry, it feels ridiculous even saying it. But my direct messages on social media are full of people threatening me.' Asked by host Susanna Reid whether she had reported the threats to police, Evans said: 'I haven't yet. It's only been a day and I'm still sort of trying to get my head around all of it. 'But, I mean, reading them, it's just honestly astounding. Most of the time I cover trade unions and picket lines, and now I feel like I've been thrown into something that is just so ridiculous and hyperbolic and nothing to do with me really.' She added that the suspension of Fox and Wootton along with the investigation launched by GB News was a 'good outcome' yesterday. Ava Evans, political correspondent for news website Joe, on ITV's Good Morning Britain today Ava Evans (left) speaks to Good Morning Britain hosts Ben Shephard and Susanna Reid But she added: 'I would just quite like for there to be a precedent set here going forward with broadcasting where that is not acceptable and I want other young producers who might have been sitting in the gallery to feel - not empowered, that's a silly word - but maybe to have the confidence to call that out in future and know that it's not acceptable for broadcasters to act like that.' Ms Evans was also asked whether it was appropriate for Conservative MPs to continue appearing on GB News. Philip Davies, Lee Anderson, Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg and Esther McVey are among the politicians who host shows on the channel. Ms Evans said: 'I think what's important is a lot of presenters and producers spoke publicly yesterday about how they don't align themselves with those views, but I didn't hear that from any of the elected Members of Parliament that sit on that channel. 'And so if you're not going to say anything and you're going to continue broadcasting on it, it's almost as if you've accepted it... You're saying that it's perfectly reasonable to profess what Laurence Fox did that night.' Sir Jacob said yesterday that he had not seen the comments by Fox, adding: 'I understand he has been suspended from GB News and we can see the outcome of that, but no I don't know the details.' However, Mr Davies criticise the outburst, saying: 'Laurence Fox's disgraceful remarks were completely unacceptable, unjustifiable and indefensible.' Wootton, who appeared to laugh when Fox made the remarks, said his 'inappropriate' reaction was a 'very unfortunate lapse in judgment'. Covering the 9pm slot on GB News yesterday evening, Mark Dolan referenced Fox making 'offensive comments' about Ms Evans. He said: 'Whether Laurence should stay on air is not my decision and Dan's absence tonight is also beyond my control. Caroline Nokes, the Commons Women and Equalities Committee chair, told the BBC's Newsnight that there is a 'really serious case to answer' following the Laurence Fox comments 'There is an investigation ongoing, but the comments made by Laurence in my view were sexist, misogynistic and, unusually, in the frenzied climate of the so-called culture wars, have been condemned across the political spectrum from left and right.' Fox's remarks are the second most complained about moment on UK television this year, behind Bridgerton star Adjoa Andoh comment the Buckingham Palace balcony was 'terribly white' during the King's coronation in May, which led to 8,000 complaints. Ofcom is now investigating whether GB News broke the Broadcasting Code for standards by allowing Fox's outburst on air. Dame Melanie Dawes, Ofcom chief executive, said: 'Over the last few days there has been speculation and commentary about our role as the independent broadcast regulator. These are important issues and I wanted to be clear about our rules. 'Parliament sets objectives on how the broadcast sector should be regulated. We set and enforce rules to achieve these objectives. Contrary to some claims, these rules remain unchanged. 'They are designed to protect audiences from offensive and harmful material, and to uphold the integrity of broadcast news and current affairs programming, while always ensuring that freedom of expression is front and centre in every decision we take. This is highly valued by audiences and central to our democracy. 'The decisions we take, always based on facts and evidence once a programme has aired, are vital if we are to protect our vibrant media landscape. We continue to apply and enforce these rules without fear or favour.' A spokesperson for dmg media said: 'Following events this week, dmg media can confirm that Dan Woottons freelance column with MailOnline - which had already been paused - has now been terminated, along with his contract.' San Francesco's driverless taxis have turned into the city's newest attraction for joyriding tourists. The cars have been around for two years in California and about a month ago, regulators in the state approved 24/7 access to Waymo and Cruise taxis. Waymo taxis are all-electric Jaguar-IPACE's that are operated by their fifth generation Waymo driver, and Cruise taxis are Chevrolet Bolts that operates with a browser-based tool called Webviz. The San Francisco Travel Association has embraced the futuristic vehicles and have invited travelers to get on the joyride. 'Robotaxis are a novel and sustainable transportation amenity for visitors. And a ride in one is likely to be shared with family and friends as another "only in San Francisco' experience'',' a spokesperson told SFGATE. Lindsay was full of enthusiasm as she approached her very first driverless vehicle and said: 'I can't do it, I gotta call my mama. Okay, so I unlock the door with my phone' Brittany Lindsay shared a TikTok video as she waited outside of her apartment for a Waymo to pick her up. Lindsay was full of enthusiasm as she approached the vehicle and said: 'I can't do it, I gotta call my mama. Okay, so I unlock the door with my phone.' As she sat in the car, she pointed toward the overhead sunroof as screens displayed her name and greeted her. With the push of a button, the car's doors locked and it started to drive away on its own as a map of Linsday's journey played on a screen. Lindsay rode the Waymo to the airport as she pointed the camera at the moving wheel and said, 'Jesus, literally take the wheel, Jesus.' As the ride went on, an automated voice message played on the speakers to tell her to keep her seatbelt fastened and to enjoy the ride. Lindsay's only complaints was that the car did not go on the freeway and that it was 'pretty slow.' Waymo has crafted their very own programed driver in the hardware and software of each vehicle and operate in Metro Phoenix and San Fransisco, with plans to expand to Los Angeles and Texas Cruise vehicles use the Webviz program which is a tool that AV engineers use to see the world from a car's point of view. The program is designed to track everything going on around the car, like a driver would. Forbes reported that in January 'Waymo reached one million miles of public autonomous driving with no human monitor in the vehicle', and Cruise reached the same milestone in February. Waymo, which was formally known as the Google Self-Driving Car Project, started in 2009 and operates in Metro Phoenix and San Francisco, with plans to expand to Los Angeles and Texas. Though there are no physical drivers in the cars, Waymo has crafted their very own programed driver in the hardware and software of each vehicle. 'Together, our hardware and software work in concert to paint a complete picture of the world around the car and enable us to navigate roads safely,' said the company's website. Similar to rideshares, a Waymo autonomous car can be ordered on their app, but in the Metro Phoenix area rides come right away, while in San Francisco, a rider is notified when a vehicle is available. Cruise taxis are Chevrolet Bolts that came out in November of 2021 after the founder Kevin Voyt launched the company in 2013. Michelle Marcelline took to TikTok in a quick video to show her journey in a Cruise car and said it was a 'super fun experience' The vehicles use the Webviz program which is a tool that AV engineers use to see the world from a car's point of view. The program is designed to track everything going on around the car, like a driver would. Michelle Marcelline took to TikTok in a quick video to show her journey in a Cruise car. As she rode in the back seat, she showed the empty front seat as the steering wheel moved back and forth. 'The ride was smooth,' Marcelline said in the video. Though many have shown interest in these new futuristic vehicles, quite a bit a controversy has surrounded them. On August 21, a Cruise vehicle that had a green light, entered an intersection, and was hit by a fire truck responding to a call. The week prior, another Cruise driverless vehicle drove directly into wet cement became stuck. Ten driverless cars also stopped working near a music festival in San Francisco's North Beach causing a huge traffic jam which the company blamed on 'wireless connectivity issues.' The firm thinks a nearby music festival may have overloaded telecommunications networks. Since the firetruck incident, General Motors has announced that they have cut their driverless car fleet in half. In the beginning of September, another two Cruise driverless taxis blocked an ambulance that was carrying a car crash victim and delayed response time to the hospital. The victim, who remains unknown, passed away from 'significant lower extremity injuries' shortly after arriving at hospital. The company fired back at the fire department saying that their vehicles had made a path for emergency teams. President of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors Aaron Peskin also told the Times that regardless of what led to the victim dying, the number of incidents involving driverless cars was alarming. Peskin said: 'All of them have a common theme, which is autonomous vehicles are not ready for prime time.' Michigan Supreme Court adopted a new rule that prohibits judges from misgendering people that come before them in court. The state's Supreme Court ordered judges across Michigan to address people correctly in court by their choice of pronouns or by 'other respectful means'. The newly-adopted rule allows legal personnel to include Ms., Mr. or 'Mx.' which is a gender-neutral title as the person's preferred form of address. It also allows people in court to decide whether the name section of their caption says he/him/his, she/her/hers or they/them/theirs. The new ruling requires Michigan judges to 'use the individuals name, the designated salutation or personal pronouns, or other respectful means that is not inconsistent with the individuals designated salutation or personal pronouns when addressing, referring to, or identifying the party or attorney, either orally or in writing.' Michigan Supreme Court passed a new rule that prohibits judges from misgendering people in a 5-2 majority ruling Democrat-nominated Justice Elizabeth Welch said: 'Our courts and court staff must conduct business in a way that is cognizant of changes in language and societal norms' A majority of the Supreme Court justices supported the rule and allowed it to pass. Two Republican-nominated justices - Brian Zahra and David Viviano - opposed the rule. Zahra said: 'This is a fluid political debate into which our judicial branch of state government should not wade, let alone dive headfirst and claim to have resolved, 'Such hubris has no place within the operation of a judicial branch of state government.' Justice Elizabeth Welch - a Democratic-nominated member of the court - said: 'Our courts and court staff must conduct business in a way that is cognizant of changes in language and societal norms, 'A primary goal of this change is to ensure that the judiciary operates in a manner that is objectively respectful of the individual identity and personal pronouns of the members of the public that we serve, regardless of the subjective viewpoints of individuals working within the court system.' The new rule came after a letter sent to the Court's justices in January 2022 from the American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan along with multiple LGBTQ organizations. The groups who sent the letter called attention to a 2021 Court of Appeals opinion which involved a transgender woman who would have preferred to go by the pronouns they/them. In a December 2021 concurrence in the case the Republican-nominated Court of Appeals Judge Mark Boonstra ruled that the court 'should not be altering its lexicon whenever an individual prefers to be identified in a manner contrary to what society, throughout all of human history, has understood to be immutable truth.' Michigan's Republican Governor Rick Snyder appointed Boonstra who declined to 'join in the insanity that has apparently now reached the courts.' The new rule came after a letter sent to the Court's justices in January 2022 from the American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan along with multiple LGBTQ organizations Will Bloomfield - who was the general counsel for the Catholic Diocese of Lansing - said that his group opposed the new rule because it would violate religious freedom and contradict 'the truth of human sexuality, that human beings exist as either male or female.' Bloomfield said at the hearing that: 'A Catholic judge should not have to choose between his or her religion and a court rule.' Justice Welch hit back at concerns and said that any grammatical confusion that comes from using the pronoun 'they' can be explained in footnotes which she said is not uncommon. She said using 'they' for single individuals requires 'more intentionality (and a bit of practice) for generations that grew up learning one language rule'. There is a loophole to the new rule whereby judges can choose to refer to someone as 'plaintiff' or 'defendant' or use the individual's surname if they wish to avoid using pronouns they find contentious. They are charged, with two others, of an offence under the Official Secrets Act They appeared via video-links for a brief administrative hearing Orlin Roussev, Bizer Dhambazov, and Katrin Ivanova appeared at the Old Bailey Three Bulgarian nationals suspected of spying for Russia appeared on the Old Bailey today. Orlin Roussev, 45, Bizer Dzhambazov, 41, and Katrin Ivanova, 31, are accused of conspiring to gather information that would be useful to an enemy between August 2020 and February 2023. They appeared at the brief administrative court hearing via prison video-links. They are said to have monitored targets for potential abduction from Roussevs room at The Haydee guest house in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk. Katrin Ivanova, 31, was a private sector laboratory assistant and is now accused of offences under the Official Secrets Act Bizer Dzhambazov, 41, is said to have lived in London for 10 years and reportedly worked as a hospital driver Officers that searched properties in London and Norfolk occupied by the three allegedly found fake passport and official identity documents for numerous European countries Prosecutor Alison Morgan KC, said: These three defendants together face a conspiracy charge in relation to an offence under the Official Secrets Act. We seek to join the matter with the Section 4 offence (possessing false ID cards). The trial date (for the ID cards offence) is set for 2 January. That matter needs to be considered on 13 October. Officers who searched properties in London and Norfolk occupied by Roussev, Dzhambazov, and Ivanova are said to have found fake passport and official identity documents for the UK, Bulgaria, France, Italy, Spain, Croatia, Slovenia, Greece, and the Czech Republic. The trio, along with Bulgarians Ivan Stoyanov, 31, and Vanya Gaberova, 29, were arrested in February. The five Bulgarians were arrested in February under the British Official Secrets Act following raids on properties in London and Great Yarmouth. MI5 allegedly passed the intelligence on to the Met Police. They are said to have monitored targets for potential abduction from Roussevs room at The Haydee guest house in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk All five appeared at Westminster magistrates court on Tuesday. They have been remanded into custody before a hearing at the Old Bailey on 13 October. Dzhambazov and Ivanova are said to have lived in London for 10 years. Dzhambazov reportedly worked as a hospital driver, while Ivanova was a private sector laboratory assistant. Gaberova is a beautician who ran the Pretty Woman salon in Acton. Roussev, of Great Yarmouth, Dzhambazov, of Harrow, northwest London, Ivanova, of Harrow, Stoyanov, of Greenford, west London, and Gaberova, of Camden, northwest London, all face a plea and trial preparation hearing on 13 October. Chinese diplomat urges U.S. to genuinely adhere to one-China principle Xinhua) 15:07, September 28, 2023 CHICAGO, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- There should be a genuine adherence on the U.S. part to the one-China principle before peace and stability can be maintained across the Taiwan Strait, Chinese Consul General in Chicago Zhao Jian said recently. The political confrontation across the Taiwan Strait after 1949 was a continuation of the Chinese civil war, Zhao said in a signed article published in Star Tribune, the largest newspaper in the U.S. state of Minnesota. "But both sides have maintained that there is only one China and Taiwan is a part of China, and remained committed to realizing reunification, though they differed on how to do so," he said. Tension arose because Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party authorities, since coming to power, have openly challenged the one-China principle and kept pushing forward "de-sinicization" and "incremental independence," Zhao said. The U.S. government has continuously obscured and hollowed out the one-China principle, upgraded official contacts with Taiwan and arms sales to Taiwan, only emboldening Taiwan's provocative activities, he added. The one-China principle is the centerpiece of the relevant China-U.S. joint communiques, and forms the bedrock of China-U.S. relations, said Zhao. "If the United States really wants to contribute to the stability across the strait, there should be a genuine adherence to the one-China principle and a true support to the Chinese efforts to promote the peaceful reunification." Just as the U.S. government would never agree to the splitting of the union during the American Civil War, the Chinese will never allow the separatist forces to split China, Zhao stressed. China resolutely safeguards the one-China principle and will do the utmost to pursue peaceful reunification, Zhao reiterated. "The Chinese people won't fight against their compatriots, but will never allow 'Taiwan independence.'" (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) In this sense, the accession process properly is now underway, according to the IECD Secretary-General, Mathias Cornmann, who is in the country within the framework of the release of the " OECD's Economic Survey of Peru 2023 ." "There will be a series of fact-finding missions, there will be a series of actual reviews by 24 OECD expert committees covering a broad spectrum of public policies, economic, social, environment, trade, investment, public governance, etc. At the end of this process, there will be a set of recommendations on what else Peru needs to do in order to continue to improve its policies," Cormann said in an interview with El Peruano Official Gazette. However, it is necessary to know what the OECD represents and what benefits will bring to Peru. According to a document from the National Center for Strategic Planning (CEPLAN) , the OECD traces its roots back to the post-World War II, when European leaders agreed that the best way to ensure lasting peace was to encourage co-operation and reconstruction of the nations involved in the war. Later, in 1961, the OECD was officially established as the successor to the Organisation for European Economic Co-operation (OEEC), which oversaw the implementation of the Marshall Plan a major element in the economic recovery of Europe and in the establishment of democratic regimes in Western Europe. Since then, the OECD has focused its efforts to provide a space for its member countries (and for non-member countries) to dialogue and identify the best practices in various areas of their economies. Currently, the OECD comprises 38 countries: Austria, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States. According to its official website, the organization's goal is to build policies for better lives and to promote those that foster prosperity, equality, opportunity, and well-being for all. Together with governments, policy makers and citizens, the OECD works on establishing evidence-based international standards and finding solutions to a range of social, economic, and environmental challenges. From improving economic performance and creating jobs to fostering strong education and fighting international tax evasion, the OECD provides a unique forum and knowledge hub for data and analysis, exchange of experiences, best-practice sharing, and advice on public policies and international standard-setting. Peru and OECD CEPLAN finds that being a full member of the OECD is important for the economic and social development of Peru for several reasons. "The main one has a symbolic meaning. It would mean a significant achievement for a country that until not long ago was still one of the many countries unable to overcome the trap of average income," it explains. The process of rapprochement with the OECD has been gradual. In 2008, Peru was admitted as an observer member in the . In 2008, Peru was admitted as an observer member in the OECD Investment Committee Then, in 2009, Peru joined the OECD Development Centre , which is a space for analysis and the interchange of experiences on economic and social policies between developed and developing countries. In the following years, Peru approached the OECD through the Competition and Consumer Policy Committees, as well as the OECD Working Group on Bribery. In 2012, Peru expressed its formal interest in becoming a member of the OECD for the first time and conveyed the same interest for a second time in 2017. The OECD Ministerial Council agreed, in April 2014, to invite Peru to participate in the "Country Program," a mechanism that seeks to help a limited number of countries achieve OECD standards and practices a process that the country underwent between 2014 and 2019. In 2018, Peru became a Party to the OECD Convention on Combating Bribery of Foreign Public Officials in International Business Transactions (Anti-Bribery Convention) and the multilateral Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters, with the aim of fighting corruption and fostering greater transparency and exchange of information. On October 9, 2021, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that then-President Pedro Castillo sent a letter to the Secretary-General of the OECD, Mathias Cormann, to reaffirm Peru's aspiration to become a member of said multilateral organization. On January 25, 2022, the OECD decided by consensus to invite Peru to start the process of accession to this institution. Chile and Colombia's accession process It should be pointed out that Colombia initiated its accession process to the OECD in 2013, which was completed in April 2020, after completing its domestic procedures for ratification of the OECD Convention. Meanwhile, Chile's accession process to the OECD started in 2007 and culminated in 2010. (END) CNA/JJN/RMB On January 25, 2022, the Council of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) decided by consensus to invite Peru to start the process of accession to this institution. Early this year, Peru submitted its Initial Memorandum , which is a self-assessment of the country's legislation, policies, and practices against OECD standards and best practices.Published: 9/28/2023 The heroic 15-year-old schoolgirl who was tragically murdered in Croydon yesterday told her friend 'I'm not afraid to die, I'm going to heaven' just one day before she was stabbed to death, MailOnline can reveal. Elianne Andam, a pupil at the 20,000-a-year private school Old Palace of John Whitgift, was killed yesterday morning next to a bus stop by a schoolboy wearing a black blazer who is believed to have been trying to win over her friend - his ex-girlfriend - with flowers. Within 75 minutes of the shocking attack which has sparked an outpouring of grief in the community and appalled the nation, a 17-year-old boy was arrested in New Addington on suspicion of murder. In a heartbreaking tribute on TikTok today, Elianne's friend has revealed the heartbreaking conversation she had with her beloved 'soul sister' just one day before she was killed. She revealed: 'We were talking about death and she said ''I'm not afraid to die, I'm going to heaven and that's that'''. She continued: 'She always called me the sister she never had, we did everything together, just look at our matching display names we were literally joined at the hip. Oh my sweet baby the pain you must've been in is scary to imagine my soul hurts endlessly. She didn't deserve any of this, her six-year-old brother didn't deserve this, her mum and dad, now they must come home each day to an empty space in which Elianne was supposed to fill. 'Now her body must lay still in eternal peace as her spirit continues to live. I'll love you always OUR HERO, you died a soldier.' Paying tribute to her beloved friend on the online video sharing platform, she described their close bond and the devastation she has faced since yesterday morning. Elianne Andam, a pupil at the Old Palace of John Whitgift private school, was killed yesterday morning by a bus stop - in a horrific attack that has shocked the nation People at the scene in Croydon, south London, where 15-year-old Elianne Andam was stabbed to death on Wednesday morning Police at the scene of a fatal stabbing in Croydon, South London A tragic statement issued by the family earlier described their 'beautiful' child Elianne as the 'light of our lives'. 'She was bright and funny, with many friends who all adored her,' it said. 'She was only 15, and had her whole life ahead of her, with hopes and dreams for the future. 'All those dreams have now been shattered. Our lives have fallen apart, along with that of our wider family.' Today police were given an extra 12 hours to quiz the suspect, who remains in custody at a south London police station. A row spilt out of the number 60 bus outside the Whitgift Shopping Centre close to East Croydon station on Wednesday morning. A teenage boy dressed in black is said to have stabbed the schoolgirl in the neck and chest with a 'sword-like' zombie knife when she stood in his way after her friend rejected his flowers and love letter before he was arrested on a tram an hour later. A bus driver and passers-by battled to save her. But Elianne died on the pavement just minutes after the attack. Her family, who had been called to the scene, rushed down to the bus stop but she died at 9.21am - before they could say goodbye. A forensic investigator onboard the bus where the argument is believed to have started Elianne, a pupil at the Old Palace of John Whitgift private school, was attacked at 8.30am yesterday as she got off the bus in Croydon Cards left for Elianne at the scene of the stabbing yesterday - less than a mile from the school gates First responders arrive to leave tributes at the scene of the attack in Croydon Privacy screens and a tent outside the Whitgift centre in Croydon while a bus sits beside the pavement nearby An aunt, who only gave her name as Marian, said: 'You just can't comprehend the heartbreak of the last 24 hours, how Elianne went to school and never came home'. James Watkins, of Croydon crime prevention group Mainzworld, said the teenager's family rushed to the scene but she had already died. 'They were unable to say goodbye,' he said. A mother who had just dropped her children at school witnessed the scene moments after the attack. The woman, from Streatham in south London, said she saw police officers take aside a bus driver who 'looked like he was almost holding' the 15-year-old victim. She said: 'I was driving past when I noticed that somebody was lying down on the floor. 'I drove round, parked up and tried to get as close as I could. Two young girls were saying it was a young lady and she had been stabbed in the neck. 'I haven't really slept properly, because I still have that image of her lying there.' Privacy screens have been set up around the scene of the stabbing in Croydon, south London Forensic officers walk past the scene, which features several privacy screens Locals say they saw a group of schoolchildren getting off the No 60 bus outside the Whitgift Centre The attacker, whose weapon was described as being 'as big as a sword', then reportedly fled the scene, chased by brave passengers who had also been on the bus. An hour after the attack, officers arrested a 17-year-old boy five miles away on a tram in New Addington at 9.45am. Metropolitan Police Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain said police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident. 'This is every parent's worst nightmare, and I know the officers who responded this morning, along with our emergency service colleagues, are devastated at the victim's death,' he said. 'This is an emotion I share and I know people across Croydon will be feeling the same. 'The victim's family has been informed and our thoughts are with them at what must be an incredibly difficult time. 'We carried out urgent inquiries to find the suspect and within 75 minutes of the incident happening a 17-year-old boy was arrested in New Addington. He remains in custody and will be questioned by detectives. Police officers laying flowers at the scene and taking a moment to reflect The victim was a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift School in Croydon Elianne's aunt Marian told MailOnline of their grief today as it emerged her mother is an NHS children's nurse who was paying for her daughter to go to a top school for a better life 'We remain in the early stages of our investigation, however based on what we know so far we believe that we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this offence. 'From our initial inquiries, we believe the suspect may have known the victim. However, we're not in a position to release the victim's identity at this time.' A spokesman for the Old Palace of John Whitgift School said: 'We are deeply shocked by the senseless and tragic death of our much-loved and valued friend and pupil. 'It will take some time for the Old Palace community to come to terms with this terrible news, and we will offer support to our pupils as we try to do so. 'Above all, we send our love and deepest sympathies to the girl's family at this unimaginably distressing time. Yesterday afternoon a white tent could be seen within a police cordon next to the double-decker bus. A violent thug was freed on bail before murdering his girlfriend in an act of staggering cruelty and depravity. Christopher McGowan, who had 40 previous convictions, now faces life in prison for killing mother-of-one Claire Inglis weeks after being released. Ms Inglis, 28, suffered more than 76 injuries after he battered and strangled her at her home in Stirling, then burned her with a lighter as she lay dying. Last night, her grieving parents Ian and Fiona demanded to know why McGowan had been released on bail to live with their daughter and grandson before the brutal and bestial killing. Scottish Tory deputy justice spokesman Sharon Dowey said McGowan should have been in prison rather than free to commit the murder. Claire Inglis died at the hands of Christopher McGowan Convicted of murder, McGowan is led from the court She added: Due to the SNPs continued weak approach to justice, dangerous and repeat offenders have failed to be properly punished and are instead allowed to put communities at risk once again. The murder has left Ms Ingliss nine-year-old son an orphan as his father previously died in an accident. Mr Inglis told the Mail: He [McGowan] should burn in hell. He should never have been put in her flat with my grandson and Claire not with his criminal record. Ms Inglis, a childminding graduate who was only 5ft 2in, started a relationship with McGowan around two months before she died at his hands in December 2021. The 28-year-old decorator had a string of convictions for violence, robbery, dealing heroin and domestically aggravated breach of the peace. Only weeks earlier he had been released from jail, where he had been remanded on charges including dangerous driving following a high-speed police pursuit. He was bailed to Miss Ingliss address after a court was told he had a new girlfriend and the relationship was positive. But yesterday he was facing a life sentence after a jury at the High Court in Stirling unanimously convicted him of murder. Judge Michael OGrady, KC, told McGowan that some crimes have the power to profoundly shock and the brutal and bestial killing is one. He added: It was a crime of staggering cruelty and depravity, a crime of utter wickedness. Ms Ingliss parents, from Stirling, attended court throughout the seven-day trial. They are now caring for their grandson. The couple had been so upset about their daughters relationship with McGowan that they cut off contact in the hope of persuading her to end it. Mrs Inglis told the BBC: She told me, Youre just a drama queen, hes good to me, hes going to change. And he did. Into a murderer. Murder victim Claire Inglis Days before Ms Inglis died, McGowan received a community payback order, including a curfew requiring him to stay in her flat at night. He was on five bail orders and the previous year had been jailed for 21 months for threatening a police officer with a blade. On the night before Ms Ingliss murder, she had been out with McGowan in Stirling. Taxi driver David Addison, who had picked the couple up, told the court he heard the thug telling her Ill kill you and recalled him using horrible, aggressive language. Ms Ingliss neighbours were alerted at 5am when they heard McGowan shouting: Help, shes covered in blood, shes no breathing. One said the thug yelled: Waken up, I think Ive killed her. A pathologist found she had at least 76 separate injuries. In her dying moments McGowan had taken a heat source to her ear, nose and thumb and burnt her. Judge OGrady remanded McGowan in custody ahead of a sentencing hearing next month. Expanding Scotlands wild beaver population into the Cairngorms National Park will have devastating impacts, farmers have claimed. The park authority (CNPA) said this week it is on the verge of applying for a licence to release more than a dozen beavers at three sites in the upper Spey valley, between Kingussie and Aviemore. It would be the first reintroduction of wild beavers to the Highlands and the first placement outside the animals existing range confirming Scottish Government policy of spreading beavers across all of Scotland. If the licence is approved, more than a dozen beavers will be trapped in Tayside and released on the Spey. The beavers could ruin fields, say farmers Spey catchment seen as most suitable location CNPA says beaver dams will enhance wetlands, boost biodiversity and help to prevent flooding lower down the Spey by slowing the flow of water. A recent public consultation found three-quarters of respondents in favour of beavers returning to the park, but only a third of them were residents in the park. Ian Wilson, Highland regional manager for the National Farmers Union Scotland, said the impact of beavers could be devastating for some local farmers if floodwater ends up on their land. Jamie Williamson, whose estate lies close to all three release sites, says the beavers could leave some of his best farmland ruined. The sites are at the RSPBs Insh Marshes reserve at Kincraig; on part of the rewilding billionaire Anders Holch Povlsens land; and on the Rothiemurchus Estate, owned by the Grant family. Mr Wilson believes local farmers are nervous, having seen the flooding of high-quality farmland beside the Tay, where illegally reintroduced beavers have thrived for 20 years. He said: The impacts of the beavers could be devastating. If land becomes that bit wetter, making the hay needed for stock for the winter could become impossible. CNPA has pledged its staff will be available to help farmers implement the mitigation measures permitted by NatureScot, in cases where beavers cause problems. Mr Williamson, who owns the 12,500-acre Alvie and Dalraddy Estates, near one release site, believes dams could flood his biofuel wood-chipping plant and push water into some of the most productive land we have creating a serious problem. Park conservation chief Sarah Henshall said Holyrood policy is actively encouraging establishment of beavers into new catchments, with the Spey identified as the most suitable catchment. Actor Idris Elba has paid tribute to 15-year-old Elianne Andam who was stabbed to death on her way to school in Croydon on Wednesday. The pupil was killed next to a bus stop in a horrific attack that has appalled the nation. A 17-year-old suspect - who is believed to have been trying to win over her friend with flowers - has been arrested. Luther actor Idris Elba, 51, has paid tribute to Elianne, and warned that the UK 'needs to enforce tougher punishments' on carrying weapons. The Golden Globe nominee, who was born in Hackney, posted the powerful and heartbreaking message on Instagram today. Writing alongside a prayer emoji, Elba said: 'Sending my condolences to the family of Elianne Andam at this very sad time. Actor Idris Elba has paid tribute to 15-year-old Elianne Andam who was stabbed to death on her way to school in Croydon on Wednesday Luther actor Idris Elba, 51, has paid tribute to Elianne, and warned that the UK 'needs to enforce tougher punishments' on carrying weapons The Golden Globe nominee, who was born in Hackney, posted the powerful and heartbreaking message on Instagram today Family and friends of Elianne Andam at the scene today in Croydon, south London, where the 15-year-old was stabbed to death 'It is a shame our country still mourns the deaths of children at the hands of knives. 'We NEED to enforce tougher deterrents and punishments to those carrying weapons.' It comes after MailOnline revealed Elianne told a friend 'I'm not afraid to die, I'm going to heaven' just one day before she was stabbed to death. In a heartbreaking tribute on TikTok today, Elianne's friend spoke of the heartbreaking conversation she had with her beloved 'soul sister' just one day before she was killed. She revealed: 'We were talking about death and she said ''I'm not afraid to die, I'm going to heaven and that's that'''. A tragic statement issued by the family earlier described their 'beautiful' child Elianne as the 'light of our lives'. 'She was bright and funny, with many friends who all adored her,' it said. 'She was only 15, and had her whole life ahead of her, with hopes and dreams for the future. 'All those dreams have now been shattered. Our lives have fallen apart, along with that of our wider family.' Elianne died on the pavement just minutes after the attack on Wednesday morning A forensic investigator onboard the bus where the argument is believed to have started Elianne, a pupil at the Old Palace of John Whitgift private school, was attacked at 8.30am yesterday as she got off the bus in Croydon Cards left for Elianne at the scene of the stabbing yesterday - less than a mile from the school gates First responders arrive to leave tributes at the scene of the attack in Croydon Privacy screens and a tent outside the Whitgift centre in Croydon while a bus sits beside the pavement nearby Privacy screens have been set up around the scene of the stabbing in Croydon, south London Today police were given an extra 12 hours to quiz the suspect, who remains in custody at a south London police station. A row spilt out of the number 60 bus outside the Whitgift Shopping Centre close to East Croydon station on Wednesday morning. A teenage boy dressed in black is said to have stabbed the schoolgirl in the neck and chest with a 'sword-like' zombie knife when she stood in his way after her friend rejected his flowers and love letter before he was arrested on a tram an hour later. A bus driver and passers-by battled to save her. But Elianne died on the pavement just minutes after the attack. Her family, who had been called to the scene, rushed down to the bus stop but she died at 9.21am - before they could say goodbye. James Watkins, of Croydon crime prevention group Mainzworld, said the teenager's family rushed to the scene but she had already died. 'They were unable to say goodbye,' he said. A mother who had just dropped her children at school witnessed the scene moments after the attack. The woman, from Streatham in south London, said she saw police officers take aside a bus driver who 'looked like he was almost holding' the 15-year-old victim. She said: 'I was driving past when I noticed that somebody was lying down on the floor. 'I drove round, parked up and tried to get as close as I could. Two young girls were saying it was a young lady and she had been stabbed in the neck. 'I haven't really slept properly, because I still have that image of her lying there.' Forensic officers walk past the scene, which features several privacy screens Locals say they saw a group of schoolchildren getting off the No 60 bus outside the Whitgift Centre The attacker, whose weapon was described as being 'as big as a sword', then reportedly fled the scene, chased by brave passengers who had also been on the bus. An hour after the attack, officers arrested a 17-year-old boy five miles away on a tram in New Addington at 9.45am. Metropolitan Police Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain said police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident. 'This is every parent's worst nightmare, and I know the officers who responded this morning, along with our emergency service colleagues, are devastated at the victim's death,' he said. 'This is an emotion I share and I know people across Croydon will be feeling the same. 'The victim's family has been informed and our thoughts are with them at what must be an incredibly difficult time. 'We carried out urgent inquiries to find the suspect and within 75 minutes of the incident happening a 17-year-old boy was arrested in New Addington. He remains in custody and will be questioned by detectives. Police officers laying flowers at the scene and taking a moment to reflect The victim was a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift School in Croydon Elianne's aunt Marian told MailOnline of their grief today as it emerged her mother is an NHS children's nurse who was paying for her daughter to go to a top school for a better life 'We remain in the early stages of our investigation, however based on what we know so far we believe that we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this offence. 'From our initial inquiries, we believe the suspect may have known the victim. However, we're not in a position to release the victim's identity at this time.' A spokesman for the Old Palace of John Whitgift School said: 'We are deeply shocked by the senseless and tragic death of our much-loved and valued friend and pupil. 'It will take some time for the Old Palace community to come to terms with this terrible news, and we will offer support to our pupils as we try to do so. 'Above all, we send our love and deepest sympathies to the girl's family at this unimaginably distressing time. Yesterday afternoon a white tent could be seen within a police cordon next to the double-decker bus. Scotlands crisis-stricken police force has warned of major slash and burn cuts to tackle a funding black hole of nearly 20million. The drive to save cash puts in jeopardy a commitment to roll out body-worn cameras, which Humza Yousaf said would go ahead. Members of the Scottish Police Authority (SPA) the civilian oversight quango for the force said they did not trust top brass to balance the books by next year. Senior officers admitted that historically low officer numbers had hit the proportion of crimes being solved and there would be a further noticeable decline in performance. Police Scotland is facing a 20milion funding black hole as its officer numbers slump to a 15-year low Deputy Chief Officer David Page attends the Scottish Police Authority meeting in Glasgow where he warned of needed slash and burn cuts Scottish Conservative MSP Russell Findlay warned that frontline cuts will cause worry and despair to communities across Scotland Scottish Tory justice spokesman Russell Findlay said: Having already suffered severe and sustained cuts, this shocking slash and burn warning will cause worry and despair to frontline officers and communities across Scotland. A dangerously complacent Humza Yousaf simply cannot dodge responsibility for the damage inflicted on our police service during 16 years of SNP misrule. Officer numbers already at a record low are likely to drop even further, while some crimes wont even be investigated, putting the public at increased risk. Police officials will be hauled before the SPA every month to be questioned about progress in making the necessary cutbacks a sum that has risen from 18.9million to 19.2million. At a public board meeting of the SPA in Glasgow yesterday, Deputy Chief Officer David Page the most senior civilian staff member of the force said: To catch up on the 19.2million gap in seven months means we need to start making decisions now and Im talking about decisions on the slash and burn narrative because this is linked to reform; its linked to transformation. He added: We are still looking to try to protect the body-worn video programme but we are right up against that now in terms of where we are. If we dont see movement on some core choices [on cuts] we will bite very hard into that transformation programme and thats the sort of slash and burn you are talking about. He added: It used to be every pound is a prisoner, now its every penny is a prisoner in terms of what were trying to do. Mr Page said police will hopefully manage the budget to a balanced position by the end of the [financial] year. Mr Yousaf recently told MSPs that his Government had increased the forces budget and confirmed plans to roll out body-worn video cameras. Deputy Chief Constable Malcolm Graham warned the SPA of a gradual but noticeable decline in police performance. Grant Macrae, chairman of the SPAs resources committee, said the Authority had approved the police budget in March on an understanding that cuts could be made without endangering public safety. By the end of April this year, overtime was higher than budget. Deputy Chief Constable Jane Connors said officer numbers, which dropped from 17,200 to a 15-year low of around 16,600, had led to more being spent on overtime and a decline in detection rates for some crimes. The Government said it supports the body cameras roll-out but the allocation of resources for the devices is a matter for the Chief Constable and SPA. Virginia's Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin has not explicitly ruled out a shocking late entry into the 2024 presidential race after he was pressed on reports that donors are desperately trying to draft him to take on Donald Trump. CBS' Bob Costa set off a firestorm on Thursday when he said that Republican billionaire megadonor Thomas Peterffy is calling allies to assure Youngkin he would have the financial backing if he wanted to jump. Youngkin has insisted he isn't interested in running, and is focused on the state legislature races in November. But the troubling performance by the seven candidates who took the stage at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library has prompted financial backers to look for another option before it's too late. Additionally, some of Youngkin's top donors will be gathered at a 'Red Vest' retreat in Virginia Beach October 17-18 with plans to 'shove' Youngkin into the 2024 race, Costa said, as they are 'growing desperate to beat Trump.' Appearing on Fox News Thursday, Youngkin said he was still laser-focused on the legislative elections - a reply he's given for months when asked about 2024. But he didn't completely close the door on a dramatic run. Virginia 's Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin called it 'humbling' that he's being considered a viable 2024 White House candidate as the movement to draft him gains steam 'I told you I'm totally focused on Virginia elections and that's what we're gonna get done,' Youngkin said. Asked if he felt a responsibility for his party and country to jump in the race, he talked about how he felt surprised by his rapid political rise 'Well, let me begin with how humbling this is,' Youngkin said. '40 years ago, I'm washing dishes and taking out trash in the Belvedere hotel. And today people are throwing my name around in a national context. 'I'm new with this. One campaign under under my belt. I've been governor for 21 months. I think we have really moved things in Virginia. It's encouraging that people are watching and like what we're doing,' the governor continued. Youngkin was elected in 2021, a bright spot for the GOP after President Joe Biden won the White House and Democrats won control of Congress. CBS's Bob Costa set off a firestorm on Thursday when he said that Republican billionaire megadonor Thomas Peterffy is calling allies to assure Youngkin he would have the financial backing if he wanted to jump He was able to hold Trump at an arm's distance, but not irritate him to the point where he lost the support of Trump's MAGA base. Earlier Thursday the Drudge Report teased that another Republican was poised to jump in and shake up the race. The speculation comes less than 24 hours after a second Republican debate dominated by bickering and personal attacks. In a snap DailyMail.com poll, Republican viewers declared Donald Trump the winner - even though he wasn't there. It was a fight to see which candidate had the potential to catapult themselves and secure the runner-up position. There was good news for challenger Ron DeSantis who was declared the most 'presidential' and the most 'competent' of the candidates who took the stage at the Ronald Reagan presidential library in California. Analysts said DeSantis put in a more assured performance than the first debate when he disappeared from sight at times. This time, he dinged Trump directly and leaned into his record as Florida governor to describe how he would run the nation. Yet in a sign of Trump's grip on the party base, a poll conducted by J.L. Partners found that 27 percent of viewers judged him to be the night's winner, pipping tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy by one point and DeSantis by 10 points. Rather than appearing on stage to slug it out with his rivals, the former president headed to Michigan, as part of an effort to capitalize on the autoworkers' strike in a state that could decide the general election. That left seven other candidates to fight it out among themselves. The night was marked by squabbling and candidates frequently drowned each other out as they fought for airtime. In a snap DailyMail.com poll, Republican viewers declared Donald Trump the winner - even though he wasn't there CBS' Bob Costa reported Thursda y that Republican billionaire superdonor Thomas Peterffy is calling around to other big donors in an effort to assure Youngkin that the money would be there if he wanted to jump in after Virginia's early November legislative elections Of those who appeared on stage, some 35 percent of the 546 Republican respondents declared Ramaswamy to be the winner and 24 percent said DeSantis gave the best performance. They were followed by former Vice President Mike Pence at 11 percent, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and Sen. Tim Scott tied at seven percent, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie at six percent and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum at three percent. James Johnson, co-founder of JLP, said: 'In the absence of anyone landing a knockout blow, Trump was the big winner of last night's debate. 'This is a Trump-dominated electorate and a nominal Vivek Ramaswamy win in our debate poll is more a reflection of that than anything else. 'Ron DeSantis can claim something of a win, having come across as the most presidential and competent, but he did not shine through in the way he needed to either. Christie and Burgum were the definitive losers, written off by Republicans as annoying and boring respectively.' The poll was conducted online in the hour after the debate ended and carries a margin of error of 4.2 percent. Philadelphia influencer 'Meatball' who posted bail Thursday morning after being arrested for looting while live-streaming has asked her followers for cash. The looter, whose legal name is Dayjia Blackwell, posted on her Instagram story and went live after being released. According to the New York Post, she told her 196,000 followers that: 'All I want to do is go treat myself' and plugged her Cash App handle for her followers. Blackwell also posted on her Instagram asking users to 'go bless her' and said frequently that she wanted to get her 'toes done', the outlet reported. The influencer's bail was set at $25,000 according to court documents. Dayjia Blackwell, known as Meatball, posted on her Instagram story after being released from jail. She told viewers about her time in jail and asked them to buy her merch or donate to her Dayjia Blackwell, 21, who livestreamed a mob-style looting spree in Philadelphia and encouraged others to join in, appeared distraught as police took her mug shot One other post on her Instagram also said: 'If you don't got 150$ for promo bye, I need a lawyer at the end of the day.' Blackwell has also been urging people to buy clothing and hats from her brand, and even hinted she may print merchandise with her mugshot on it. In a separate post, she sad: 'Thanks I love everybody. I will never get locked up again, what was that I was in omg. That scared me. 'I've never been through nothing like that ever in my life, I don't even know what happened. I need some sleep, I'm scared, I'm traumatized, never again in my live, like seriously,' said Blackwell. Blackwell faces charges for burglary, conspiracy, criminal trespassing, rioting, criminal mischief, criminal use of communication facility, receipt of stolen property and disorderly conduct. On Tuesday, the 21-year-old social media personality told her 181,000 Instagram followers to join her as she ran through the street and drove to several locations hit by thieves. 'Tell the police if they lock me up tonight it's going to be lit, it's going to be a movie! Everybody's gotta eat!' she said on camera. She filmed looters at an Apple store, Lululemon and Footlocker, before moving on to a liquor store where she bragged about grabbing a bottle of Hennessy. Eventually, police found Meatball in her friend's car and arrested her a little after midnight. Images shared on social media show a large group storming the Apple store and stealing items Groups of people are seen running towards the Lululemon store in this picture during the first night of looting Blackwell was put in handcuffs in front of her friends after protesting she had done nothing wrong Still filming herself during the arrest, she tried to talk her way out of it. She said: 'We didn't have anything to do with this!' Despite her protests, police arrested her and she was captured sobbing in her mugshot. Blackwell's social media usage may have led to her demise. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer police were monitoring social media throughout the to track looters. 'We were able to link some things on social media,' said Interim Police Commissioner John Stanford. 'We had a group that was making their way through the city. Quite naturally, you have followers who are going to see this and start to come out, and think they have an opportunity to get something.' Blackwell is expected back in court on October 17 for her next hearing. Fine Wine And Good Spirits got smashed apart during the second night if looting Looting went on for a second night Wednesday in the city of brotherly love. Brazen thieves ransacked a liquor store and took off the safe and raided the lottery machine on a night when liquor stores were shut down by the authorities. Police said they made at least 52 arrests. Burglary, theft and other counts have been filed so far against at least 30 people, all but three of them adults, according to Jane Roh, spokesperson for the Philadelphia district attorney's office. The flash-mob style looting came after a peaceful protest over a judge's decision to dismiss murder and other charges against a Philadelphia police officer who shot and killed a driver, Eddie Irizarry, through a rolled-up window. Crime statistics reveal there has been 302 homicides in the city so far this year. There have been 402 reported rapes, 58,759 cases of property crime, 3,701 cases of aggravated assaults and 1,314 shooting victims. A collector who was once branded the 'sith lord' of the art world and was blamed for pushing prices too high has amassed a multi-million dollar collection of 25,000 pieces from up-and-coming artists. Los Angeles-based Stefan Simchowitz, who started collecting unique stamps as a hobby when he was a kid in South Africa, adopted unorthodox ways of collecting art that earned him a dubious reputation in the art world. Instead of collecting from galleries, the 52-year-old reaches out to unknown artists directly on Facebook and Instagram, and offers to buy their work before then selling it on to other collectors. His subsequent buyers then flip the artwork at auction for big profits, meaning that new, upcoming artists' works are sold for unsustainably high prices in the market, causing 'career flameouts,' reports the Wall Street Journal. Stefan Simchowitz adopted unorthodox ways of collecting art that earned him a dubious reputation in the art world. Instead of collecting from galleries, the 52-year-old reaches out to unknown artists directly on Facebook and Instagram , and offers to buy their work before then selling it on to other collectors A woman poses with a work of art by Tauba Auerbach - who was one of the first artists that Simchowitz invested in Art critic Jerry Saltz once described Simchowitz as a sith lord - after he said that 'any attempt to further control the system in opposition to me will asphyxiate them and asphyxiate the artist.' Some of the earliest works Simchowitz bought, after perusing around Manhattan's SoHo galleries while working as a movie producer in New York, included art from Tauba Auerbach and Sterling Ruby. Auerbach's pieces have fetched a cool $2.285milion in previous years, while Ruby's work has sold for $1.78million at auction in the past. Simchowitz' aim, however, is to find budding masterpieces when they're still cheaper than $5,000. He also started financing artists and helping them produce work that he bought and sold - like Jonathan Monk's rabbit sculptures 'The Inflated Deflated,' and Petra Cortright and Lily Ramirez's eye-catching colorful pieces. Cortright - whose collaborative art life with Simchowitz started in 2011 when he messaged her on Facebook. Her bright works often go for as much as $65,000. Some of the artists he patrons include Serge Attukwei Clottey - who Simchowitz gives $15,000 a month for supplies and other expenses. Clottey's work has just featured in exhibitions in Venice and Saudi Arabia, and his work has sold for up to $500,000 in the past. Petra Cortright's art. She has been supported by the collector for over a decade Simchowitz' aim is to find budding masterpieces when they're still cheaper than $5,000 Simchowitz has multiple 11,000-square-foot warehouses in Los Angeles where he stores his immense collection - which contains over 25,000 pieces of art. He opened up his first gallery in California in 2021. Along with Brian Ludlow, a lawyer, the pair set up Creative Art Partners - an art rental company which is now shipping 3,500 artworks to over 180 locations. Their artwork, which clients pay for on a monthly basis, adorn the walls of social clubs and luxury hotels throughout the US. Sometimes the rentals end in sales - and the company ranked in $10million for Simchowitz alone last year. It's a way for Simchowitz to keep his artwork assets moving in public - metamorphosing them into a service that can be more lucrative than just sitting away, unseen, in an archive or storage. And Simchowitz doesn't just pay young artists to create, he is now founding his own compound in Pasadena, California, where artists can use studio space and pottery kilns, and exhibition space. Speaking to WSJ, Simchowitz said: 'I'm one of the bad guys who ends up good. Maybe I started out as a devil, but it's better to do that and end up an angel than the other way around, right?' Despite the good he does for up and coming artists, there are traditional people within the art world that refuse to work with him, and deny that he is a tastemaker in his own right. Artist Lily Ramirez, whose eye-catching pieces have been snapped up by the art collector in recent years Artist Petra Cortright - whose collaborative art life with Simchowitz started in 2011 when he messaged her on Facebook. Her bright works often go for as much as $65,000 Dealer Tim Blum said he won't sell him anything - and believes that it's 'creepy' that Simchowitz finances young artists. 'Thinking about it makes me sick to my stomach,' he said. Jeffrey Deitch, the former director of Los Angeles's Museum of Contemporary Art, on the other hand told WSJ about Simchowitz: 'No one is attempting anything like Stefan today. 'He's constructing an art empire of his own.' Former auction executive Amy Cappellazzo said: 'Stefan is making our systems more efficient and even more democratic.' Simchowitz told WSJ: 'Youre not supposed to make money from art. 'Youre supposed to sell companies and use the money to just buy art, but that never made sense to me.' A 16-year-old girl has died after she was struck by lighting in Florida while out hunting with her father, officials said on Thursday. Baylee Holbrook and her father were hunting in Putnam County, about 30 miles East of Gainesville, on Tuesday when a bolt struck a tree and hit them, local law enforcement said. Trinity Baptist Church shared the heartbreaking update of her death two days later, writing: 'At 9.32 this morning, Baylee Holbrook entered into the arms of Jesus.... Matt, Casey and Kylee are grateful for the outpouring of love and support. We ask that you please respect the privacy of the family at this time.' Holbrook was surrounded by family at the time of her death at the hospital, the church added. All athletic events at Holbrook's high school on Thursday have been cancelled as the community grieves. Baylee Holbrook, 16, has died after she was struck by lighting while hunting with her father Holbrook and her father were hunting in Putnam County, about 30 miles East of Gainesville, on Tuesday when a bolt struck a tree and hit them 'All are invited for a time of fellowship and prayer at the CL Overturf auditorium all day today. We are in prayer for the Holbrook family and reflecting as well as sharing,' the church said on Facebook. Holbrook's father lost consciousness after the bolt struck, and when he woke up, he found the teen wasn't breathing. He quickly called 911 and performed CPR on his daughter until deputies and first responders arrived. Holbrook was transported to the HCA Florida Putnam Hospital and taken to a trauma center, where she was listed in critical condition. 'She has proven a fighter and our prayers extend to her, her family and friends,' the Sheriff's office wrote on Facebook on Wednesday. The teen's loved ones took to social media after learning of her death to honor her. 'As I sit here with eyes filled with tears, I just keep asking God why, why Baylee? Why is it always the good ones? Why does bad things happen to such good people? So young.. I am mad & sad all in one,' wrote Ryan Eubanks. 'God, please put your hands around this family. Hold them and do not let go!!' Holbrook was taken to the hospital where she died on Thursday All athletic events at Holbrook's high school on Thursday have been cancelled Holbrook's classmates gathered on Wednesday morning to pray for the Palatka Junior-Senior High School student's recovery. The community came together again later that night for a vigil in her honor her at the school gym. 'She cares so much about everyone else. She has a heart for her friends, people she loves, people she comes in contact with, she has a heart for people in general,' the family's spokesperson Willie McKinnon said to WOKV. Holbrook was a varsity cheerleader and the team will honor her by wearing her favorite color, green, ribbons and bows in their game on Friday. Her friends described her as a pillar of the community with a smile that could brighten up every room. 'She's hilarious, she always comes on with a smile on her face. She could be battling the worst day, but she comes with a smile on her face,' Kaitlyn Sanders said. 'It's like a brother-sister relationship, we hunt fish all sorts of things like that,' her cousin said. 'She's a fighter and I know she will stay in this and I love you Baylee.' McKinnon shared a message from her parents: 'Please ask God to do what he can only do and that's perform a miracle.' Holbrook's classmates came together around the Palatka Junior-Senior High School to pray for her recovery on Wednesday Wednesday evening the community held a vigil for the 16-year-old. A spokesperson for the family had asked people to pray for her recovery The sheriff's office said there had been an increase in lightning strikes in the area over the past two days and warned the community of the upcoming forecast. Fox Weather said severe weather has been reported across the sunshine state due to a stalled out front to the north that allowed numerous showers and storms to develop up and down the Florida Peninsula. They forecasted thunderstorms will slam the state into the weekend with most parts of the state getting at least 2 inches of rain through Saturday. There are about 40 million lightning strikes which hit the ground in the United States each year, yet the odds of actually being struck in any given 12 months are less than one in a million, according to CDC. Survivors described being left with ringing in their ears, PTSD, severe burns, mental health issues, vision impairments, heart palpitations and more. A scion of one of Germany's most illustrious dynasties has lost centuries of family heirlooms after he forgot to pay the bill on a cheap New York lock-up. Christian Agostino von Hassell, 70, had hoped to pass them to his daughter but has been reduced to scouring online auction sites for the lost treasure which includes an 18th century writing desk on which his grandfather plotted the assassination of Adolf Hitler, according to The New York Times. The desk, suits of armor, and oil paintings of his ancestors were among hundreds of priceless items he had stored for $355 per year at the Extra Space Storage facility on Wyckoff Avenue in Ridgewood, Queens. The troves of priceless artefacts were moved into storage after he decided they were too many for his studio apartment on Sutton Place in Manhattan's Upper East Side. Von Hassell thought they were safe until the company quietly auctioned them off for a fraction of their true value to one lucky bidder when illness interfered with his affairs and prevented him paying the bill. The missing desk is pictured by the window in the apartment of Christian Agostino von Hassell's parents. He moved it into the Extra Space Storage facility on Wyckoff Avenue in Ridgewood, Queens Christian Agostino von Hassell (pictured) had hoped to pass them to his daughter but has been reduced to scouring online auction sites for the lost treasure which includes an 18th century writing desk on which his grandfather plotted the assassination of Adolf Hitler Von Hassell's grandfather Ulrich von Hassell sitting at his desk in 1937 'Just sending you a quick note to confirm that you have successfully moved out of your unit at our Ridgewood store,' the firm informed him in a cheery note. 'We can't wait for you to pursue your next big adventure. 'Have a wonderful rest of your day!' Hassell was born in Bonn but moved to the US in 1971 as a teenager with his sister and his parents Wolf and Christa in 1971. He joined the US marines three years later and had an illustrious career as a war correspondent and later an intelligence officer, travelling to dozens of international hotspots on American service. He saw the aftermath of the 1983 terror attack in Beirut when 214 US service personnel were killed by terrorists driving two trucks loaded with TNT into the Marine barracks. Returning to the US he studied European history and won a master's degree in journalism from Columbia University before lecturing on counterterrorism at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice. The author of 17 books mainly on military history he also runs a consultancy firm dealing with international security issues. The French writing desk had been handed down the family for five generations and had graced the study of his great-grandfather Admiral Alfred von Tirpitz, who led the German Navy in the First World War. Tirpitz, who served under the last Kaiser Wilhelm II built his naval fleet into a power rivalling only Great Britain's in an arms race that threatened to win the war for Germany. After his death in 1930 it was bequeathed to Christian's grandfather the diplomat Ulrich von Hassell who served as Germany's last ambassador to Italy before the Nazis took power. Von Hassell and his aristocratic coterie watched with unease and then horror as Hitler tightened his grip on Germany and thrust it into a disastrous war. The desk, suits of armor, and oil paintings of his ancestors were among hundreds of priceless items he had stored for years in the Extra Space Storage facility on Wyckoff Avenue in Ridgewood, Queens The French writing desk had been handed down the family for five generations and had graced the study of his great-grandfather Admiral Alfred von Tirpitz, who led the German Navy in the First World War Ulrich von Hassell is pictured with the Italian dictator Benito Mussolini in 1937 The desk had belonged to Christian's grandfather the diplomat Ulrich von Hassell who served as Germany's last ambassador to Italy before the Nazis took power. He plotted Hitler's downfall at the desk before being arrested and executed in the aftermath of the 1944 attempt on the Fuehrer's life He plotted Hitler's downfall at the desk and wrote a secret memoir for posterity that he concealed in tea tins and buried on his estate before being arrested and executed in the aftermath of the 1944 attempt on the Fuehrer's life. He told the New York Times that the desk was shipped to Manhattan when Ulrich's widow dies in 1982 and took pride of place at the family's Southampton home von Hassell's mother died in 2009. Two years later it was with Extra Space in Queens, stored alongside the rest of the family treasures for $335 a month. The company insists it repeatedly tried to contact von Hassell when they payments stopped but received no response. Under New York law storage companies are entitled to auction off the contents of units if payment is more than a month late and von Hassell's went under the hammer on March 23. The desk alone was valued at $39,000 but his lawyer discovered that a man named Boleslaw Karvay, of Long Island, had bought the entire collection for $2,850, the Times reported. Von Hassell managed to reach Karvay by phone on April 19 but he claims the new owner hung up on him. But he did receive a reply from Sedgwick Claims Management Services, an insurance adjuster for Extra Space Storage. 'We find no fault on the part of Extra Space Storage Inc. for the loss received,' they wrote. 'Therefore, Extra Space Storage Inc. will not be able to assist with any settlements of the claim. 'The reason for the claim denial is that your client was properly notified about the foreclosure, and was called with no contact back.' YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 28, ARMENPRESS. Analysis shows that no Armenian will be left in Nagorno-Karabakh in the coming days, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan warned Thursday. The exodus of Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh continues as a result of the policy of ethnic cleansing carried out by Azerbaijan. Analysis shows that no Armenian will be left in NK in the coming days. This is a direct act of ethnic cleansing and [dispossession], and what weve been warning about the international community for a long time. The statements made by various international actors condemning ongoing ethnic cleansings in NK are important, but if no concrete actions follow these statements will be viewed only for creating a moral statistics for history, PM Pashinyan said. He warned that various countries, by simply making statements and not taking action, are trying to have an opportunity to separate themselves from this crime, in order to then be able to say well, we had condemned it. If no relevant political and legal decisions follow the statements on condemning it, the condemnations become acts of giving consent to whats happening. Regarding the Government of Armenia, our primary duty today is to receive our brothers and sisters forcibly displaced from NK with the utmost care and ensure their urgent needs are met, Pashinyan said. The federal government on Thursday notified workers that a shutdown appears imminent and that they should be prepared to stop receiving pay in three days unless Congress can come to a last-minute deal. That prospect appears increasingly unlikely. Government funding runs out at 11:59 pm on Saturday and there has been no sign Republicans are ready to coalesce around a spending deal. White House staff received an email with the subject line Please Read on Thursday, Bloomberg News reported, outlining guidance in the event of a government shutdown. Staff would be divided into three categories: exempt, excepted and furloughed. Those in the first two categories would have to report to work on Monday, Oct. 2. Those essential workers would include senior staff, National Security Council staff and press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. Furloughed workers would have to stop working Sunday night. The White House and federal agencies have started to warn workers to be prepared for a government shutdown - above the Lincoln Memorial closed during the October 2013 shutdown Federal agencies also have begun to notify their workers, the Washington Post reported. While certain government activities must cease during a lapse, many DHS functions will continue, read a memo to workers at the Department of Homeland Security. During this time, some of you will be temporarily furloughed while others who perform excepted functions will continue to execute your assigned duties. And, on Capitol Hill, the House Committee on Administration, which runs the bureaucracy in the Capitol, has given out guidance to staff on what to expect in the case of a shutdown. All 4 million federal employees which includes members of the military would see their pay on hold until the funding crisis is resolved. All military members and essential employees would be expected to work without pay. And the government would be scaled back only to its most vital functions, like airport security, federal security officers, and mail delivery. Social Security is funded outside the annual appropriations process on Capitol Hill so it would be safe. But passport offices would close and there would be interruptions in house, food and health aid to the poor. Other programs such as the Department of Interiors annual contest where users on social media vote for their favorite fat bear could be halted. National parks would be closed. With the clock ticking toward the September 30th deadline, a stalemate remains in place on Capitol Hill. The House will vote Thursday night on four appropriation bills to fund the government. But those are dead-on-arrival in the Democratically-controlled Senate due to the massive budget cuts and strict border policies they contain. McCarthy needs those provisions in order to get votes from his conservatives. The Senate, meanwhile, has been working on a bipartisan stopgap bill known as a continuing resolution that funds the government at current levels through Nov. 17. But many conservative House Republicans have said they wont for it, citing its $6 billion in funding for Ukraine. And many in the right wing of the party oppose doing a continuing measure at all. Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida has said he will bring up a resolution to remove McCarthy as speaker if McCarthy pushes for a temporary funding measure. Speaker Kevin McCarthy is facing threats from conservatives President Joe Biden has placed blame for an impending shutdown squarely on Republicans: The fact is that I think that the speaker is making a choice between the speakership and American interest' President Joe Biden has placed blame for an impending shutdown squarely on Republicans. The fact is that I think that the speaker is making a choice between the speakership and American interest, the president said Wednesday night at a fundraiser. And the White House has been emphasizing what the extreme Republican shutdown will do to ordinary Americans, outlining the services people will have to go without as long as the government remains shuttered. On Thursday, for example, the White House outlined 2,000 recovery projects under FEMA that would be delayed if the government shuts down. That includes Florida and other states trying to recover from hurricanes and other natural disasters. Some Republicans appear worried they will shoulder the blame if the government closes. Shutting down the government is not like pressing pause. Its not an interlude that lets up pick up where we left off. Its an actively harmful proposition, Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell said on Thursday. He has pushed McCarthy to come to a deal. McCarthy is trying to blame Biden, arguing the president wont support more restrictions on stopping migrant crossings at the border. The president, its in his hands, the speaker said this week. He can keep the government open by taking action on the border. Biden and McCarty came to a spending deal months ago. The speaker, under pressure from his conservative wing, has reneged on it. The two men have not spoken during these current spending negotiations. The last major government shutdown was a 34 day one in 2018 under then-President Donald Trump. It cost tax payers nearly $4 billion dollars. But it also meant members of the military and federal employees went over a month without being paid. They ultimately received their salaries retroactively. Desperate cancer patients being forced to pay for life-saving surgery in England is not an acceptable state of affairs, Humza Yousaf has conceded. The SNP leader and former health secretary was also accused of being complacent in light of shocking waiting times for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross confronted the First Minister with the case of Margaret McCaul, who was terrified by the three-month wait on Scotlands NHS for treatment for potentially fatal ovarian cancer. As revealed in the Scottish Daily Mail, Ms McCaul had to use 27,000 of her life savings to have the surgery in England to remove her ovaries, fallopian tubes, womb and other affected organs and tissue. The 50-year-old from Newmains, Lanarkshire, warned it was disgusting that she and fellow cancer patients were having to resort to such measures just to stay alive. Margaret McCaul said it was disgusting that she and fellow cancer patients were being forced to spend their savings on treatment down south just to stay alive She said: Cancer doesnt wait for the NHS to get its act together on waiting lists. Cancer doesnt care if you can afford to pay. It kills if left untreated and the Scottish Government is allowing this to happen. We shouldnt have to go to London or elsewhere to have it done. It was either that or wait 12 weeks. Challenged about Ms McCauls plight due to the state of the Scottish NHS at First Ministers Questions yesterday, Mr Yousaf said it was an unacceptable ordeal and he had sympathy for what she had endured. Responding to the Tory leader, Mr Yousaf said: Margaret is right that nobody should have to feel that their only option is to pay privately to go anywhere outside Scotland for cancer treatment. He added: One of the most difficult decisions this Government had to take during that Covid period was to have to pause cancer screening for a number of months; we are still dealing with the impacts of that difficult decision. On ovarian cancer more specifically, let me try to offer some assurance, if I can. The latest figures show that, in Scotland, 94.7 per cent of women are receiving their first treatment within 31 days of a decision to treat. However, in those situations where that is not happening or, in Margarets case, has not happened, I fully accept Douglas Rosss proposition that that is not an acceptable state of affairs. Following their exchange, Mr Ross said: Cancer patients need urgent treatment to save their lives. But in the SNP-run NHS, they wait months. People from the most deprived areas are much more likely to die from cancer already. As waiting times grow, they will only suffer more since they cant afford to go outwith Scotland. Humza Yousaf is putting lives at risk by failing to reduce lengthy cancer waiting times. He added: People are having to spend their life savings so they can go elsewhere for the life-saving treatment they need. Humza Yousaf was health secretary for two years and cancer waiting times grew. How is he going to sort it now hes First Minister? Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar condemned Mr Yousaf for complacency after NHS figures showed that one in four Scottish patients suspected of having cancer dont start treatment within the 62-day target. He said: The First Minister has become complacent in the fight against Scotlands biggest killer. Life expectancy in Scotland has dropped again, to a level not seen for over ten years. There is no starker indication of failure than that. Humza Yousaf must apologise for this lost decade on the SNPs watch. Guests had been invited to a nine-course dinner at Duroseau's Forest Hills home A black partygoer claims she was drenched with a hose at point-blank range as she 'calmly' tried to speak to a 'racist' neighbor who soaked guests in a bid to shut down the celebration. Katya Dossous, from Nassau County, New York, accused Marcus Rosebrock, who is white, of spraying her in the face, head and body during the alleged altercation in Queens, NY, on September 17, 2022. Dossous is among 19 revelers who have filed a lawsuit against Rosebrock after he 'hosed down' guests at a party hosted by his Forest Hills neighbor, prominent doctor Yves Duroseau. Footage allegedly shows the moments after Dossous attempted to speak with Rosebrock following the 'initial' soaking, which has also been caught on video. The 'drenched' partygoer can be seen looking around in disbelief as other guests are heard asking what happened. Katya Dossous (pictured after she says she was hosed down point-blank), from Nassau County, New York, accused Marcus Rosebrock, who is white, of spraying her in the face, head and body during the altercation in Queens, NY, on September 17, 2022. Stay-at-home father Marcus Rosebrock has received threats following a lawsuit accusing him of 'racism' after he housed down his black neighbors in a bid to break up their party Dossous says: 'I tried to talk to their neighbor, he walked back, picked up a hose and hosed me down while I was talking to him,' while gesturing to her face. The plaintiff's lawyer said the incident occurred after Dossous 'calmly asked Marcus Rosebrock to stop water hosing them'. The attorney added: 'Rosebrock looked her right in the eye and hose her right in the face, head and body.' Dossous told the New York Post the move was designed to make the revelers feel 'less than' and 'like animals'. She was among the high-end guest list at the Duroseau home who had gathered to celebrate the esteemed medic's sister's birthday. Guests, who included 50 Cent and Eminem record executive Rigo Morales, were treated to a sumptuous nine course dinner created by TV chef Vanessa Cantave, winner of Bravo's reality cooking competition Rocco's Dinner Party in 2011. Video taken before the event began shows tables elegantly set with pastel linens, gold cutlery and floral decorations. The dining set up features bespoke menus and intricately styled napkins in the shape of roses. But at around 10pm the soiree turned ugly, when a dispute over noise escalated and resulted in Rosebrock turning the hose on the doctor's guests. Guest of Yves Duroseau were invited to sample a nine course meal created by a TV chef to celebrate his sister's birthday The pink-themed party to celebrate the Duroseau's sister Rose Vony's birthday began at around 3pm and stretched into the evening of Saturday September 17 2022. Prominent NYC doctor Yves Duroseau (pictured) is among those suing Rosebrock for soaking him with a house during a t birthday celebration for had thrown for his sister Rosebrock's home in Forest Hills, Queens The home of Yves Durosea in Forest Hills New York The stay-at-home dad denies racism and said there is 'a lot more to be discovered' about the lead up to his actions. He told DailyMail.com that he has been flooded with death threats since news of the lawsuit became public. He said: 'This has already destroyed us. They are trying to take away everything I own.' Rosebrock's attorney Brandon Gillard said: 'Marcus refutes any characterization that he is racist or that his actions were racially motivated. 'To compare Plaintiffs aggressive and violent actions at a house party with those of the peaceful protesters of the 1960s is a false equivalence and is disrespectful of the legacy of those who suffered indignities while fighting for civil rights. 'As a result of the inflammatory and sensational allegations, Marcus and his family are now receiving harassing and menacing phone calls and death threats, causing him to fear for his and his family's safety.' Black partygoers ran for cover after being sprayed with a hose at the surprise birthday dinner hosted by Dr Yves Duroseau Duroseau (pictured hugging a family member) held a press conference about his decision to file the lawsuit along with 18 other plaintiffs Rosebrock (pictured Thursday) was seen installing new security cameras at his home after he received death threats amid the ongoing dispute with his neighbor Yves Duroseau Its the most audacious hit on a Ewing since JR took two in the gut from Sue Ellens sister. On Wednesday, the Nationalist group at Holyrood voted to suspend Fergus Ewing. The Inverness and Nairn MSP stands accused of a villainy far more infamous than even that of his soap opera namesake. Ewing, it is alleged, has been thinking for himself. In the SNP, no less. Officially, the suspension is for voting against the Government on a confidence motion in Lorna Slater. Somehow, Ewing had got it into his head that she wasnt very good at her job. But his coats been on a shoogly peg for a while, with party bosses noting signs of independent thought on everything from upgrading the A9 to the threat to North Sea energy jobs and the net zero agenda. (What is it with Ewings and oil?) Humza Yousaf and Fergus Ewing at First Ministers Questions yesterday At First Ministers Questions, he posed his first query to Humza Yousaf since his punishment was announced. When the Presiding Officer called his name, the air suddenly evaporated from the room. Throats were cleared, knowing glances exchanged. Awkward! Ewing rose. His subject: dualling of the A96. Last November the Transport Minister pledged to issue the necessary orders for work to begin in a matter of weeks. Ewings puffy countenance was grave. Nearly a year later, my constituents are still waiting, he said, asking Yousaf for a ministerial statement on the delay. The good people of Nairn are surely entitled to know what is or is not going on, he added, twisting the knife. The First Minister said there was a review of options under way for reasons that are known to Fergus Ewing, including our commitment to our climate obligations, before telling Ewing he would decide what is the most appropriate way to update him. Im not saying Yousafs response was chilly but Shona Robison is currently being treated for second-degree frostbite. His tone with opposition leaders wasnt much friendlier, not least given their volley of interrogatives on cancer waiting times. Douglas Ross recounted the story of Margaret McCaul, who had to travel to London and pay 27,000 out of her own pocket for treatment for ovarian cancer. The wait she faced on the NHS in Scotland was, she said, too long to take the risk. Yousaf did his best to sound sombre and sincere, offering Mrs McCaul his sympathy for her unacceptable ordeal. Of course, the lady in question needed surgery, not sympathy, but the First Minister noted that this year, we gave an additional billion pounds to the health service. He said it as though the government had gifted NHS Scotland some kind of windfall. Ross brought up another case, that of Irene Hartshorn, an Ayrshire woman who was told she would have to wait 12 weeks to begin treatment for ovarian cancer. She too had to have the operation done at a private hospital in London, paid for by her sister. The Conservative leader pointed to research showing poorer Scots were 74 per cent more likely to die from cancer than their wealthier compatriots. What are people meant to do if they get cancer but cannot afford to go outwith Scotland for treatment? he demanded to know. The NHS in Scotland will be there to assist and treat where it possibly can, came the reply. Where it possibly can. Anas Sarwar followed Ross and went harder. He observed that not a single health board in Scotland was meeting the 62-day cancer treatment target. So cut the complacency and cut the excuses, he barked. Yousaf blamed the impact of Westminster austerity, but Sarwar wouldnt hear a bar of it. No one needed to tell him about austerity, but that does not excuse the woeful record of this SNP Government over the past 16 years. The Labour leader began rattling off a list of egregious waits for cancer treatment on NHS Scotland: 191 days, 217 days, 334 days all the way up to 385 days. The First Minister cannot blame someone else for that, Sarwar growled. That is the SNPs record. A north Queensland man allegedly used a motion-sensor camera hidden in a can of insect spray to film hundreds of guests after advertising his home on a couch-surfing website. Police allege the camera was secreted in the bathroom to record guests showering. A north Queensland man allegedly used a motion-sensor camera hidden in a can of insect spray to film hundreds of guests (stock image) The 47-year-old covertly recorded visitors to his Railway Estate residence in Townsville over a period of three years, police are expected to allege (stock image) The man was arrested at Brisbane Airport as he tried to board a flight to Singapore. The 47-year-old covertly recorded visitors to his Railway Estate residence in Townsville over a period of three years, police are expected to allege. Child protection unit officers charged him with 124 counts of recording in breach of privacy. Detectives seized more than 250 videos of men and women of all ages. The man's bail was refused and he is due to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on Thursday. Some victims have been identified, however, police are appealing to anyone who used the couch-surfing website to stay at the house to contact them. As much ice has been lost in two years as between 1960 and 1990 Switzerland is home to the most glaciers of any country in Europe Switzerland lost 4% of its total glacier volume in 2023, and 6% in 2022 Switzerland has lost 10 per cent of its glaciers in the past two years as hot summers and a lack of snow 'dramatically' accelerate the loss of ice. A Swiss Academy of Sciences panel is reporting a dramatic acceleration of glacier melt in the Alpine country. Switzerland is home to the most glaciers of any country in Europe. It lost 4 per cent of its total glacier volume in 2023, the second-biggest decline in a single year on top of a 6 per cent drop in 2022, the biggest thaw since measurements began, the academy's commission for cryosphere observation said. Experts at the GLAMOS glacier monitoring center have been on the lookout for a possible extreme melt this year amid early warning signs about the country's estimated 1,400 glaciers, a number that is now dwindling. Switzerland has lost 10 per cent of its glaciers in the past two years as hot summers and a lack of snow 'dramatically' accelerate the loss of ice Head of the Swiss glacier measurement network GLAMOS, Matthias Huss, checks the thickness of the Rhone Glacier near Goms, Switzerland The academy said: 'The acceleration is dramatic, with as much ice being lost in only two years as was the case between 1960 and 1990. 'The two extreme consecutive years have led to glacier tongues collapsing and the disappearance of many smaller glaciers.' Matthias Huss, head of GLAMOS, which participated in the research, said in an interview that Switzerland has already lost up to 1,000 small glaciers, and that 'now we are starting to lose also bigger and more important glaciers.' 'Glaciers are the ambassadors of climate change. They make it very clear what is happening out there because they respond in a very sensitive way to warming temperatures,' he said. 'The study underlines once again that there is big urgency to act now if you want to stabilize [the] climate, and if you want to save at least some of the glaciers.' The team said the 'massive ice loss' stemmed from a winter with very low volumes of snow - which falls on top of glaciers and protects them from exposure to direct sunlight - and high summer temperatures. Switzerland is home to the most glaciers of any country in Europe All of Switzerland - where the Alps cut a swathe through most of the southern and central parts of the country - was affected, and glaciers in the southern and eastern regions melted almost as fast as in 2022's record thaw. Swiss meteorologists reported in August that the zero-degree Celsius level - the altitude where water freezes - had risen to its highest level ever recorded, at nearly 5,300 meters (17,400 feet), which means that all the Swiss Alpine peaks faced temperatures above freezing. Joe Biden shutdown a climate change protester at his remarks in Arizona on Thursday by promising to meet with him afterwards if he would just 'shush up.' The President was talking about protecting democracy during remarks at the Tempe Center for the Arts to honor the late Republican Sen. John McCain when the heckler stood up. 'Why have you yet to declare a climate emergency?' the protester yelled, interrupting the president's remarks. 'Hundreds of Arizonans have died.' The lone protester was pressuring Biden to declare a national emergency to unlock sweeping new federal regulations and funds to combat the climate emergency. His heckling was unrelated to the remarks honoring McCain and calling on the preservation of American democracy. President Joe Biden tried to quell a climate change protester at his pro-democracy remarks in Arizona on Thursday by telling the man to 'hush up' Security escorts the demonstrator out of the Tempe Center for the Arts after he interrupted Biden's remarks honoring late Sen. John McCain and attacking former President Donald Trump. The man shouted: 'Why have you yet to declare a climate emergency? Hundreds of Arizonans have died' 'All of us are being aksed right now: What will we do to maintain our democracy? Will we, as John wrote, never quit? Will we not hide from history, but make history? Will we put partisanship aside, and put country first? I say we must, and we will. We will. But it's not easy, it's not easy,' Biden said. At the pause in his remarks, the man stood up to demand a national emergency on the climate crisis, to which the audience booed. 'Why don't you wait hang on a second. I'll be happy to meet you after I speak, OK?' the president pleaded with the protester from the podium. When he persisted, Biden cut-in to say: 'I'll tell you what if you shush up, I'll meet with you after this. OK?' 'Democracy never is easy as we just demonstrated,' he continued as the protester was pulled away by security. 'The cause is worth giving our all for democracy. To make all things possible.' President Biden launched a blistering, direct attack on 'extremist' Donald Trump during his Thursday remarks as he urged Americans to stand up for democracy and accused his rival of trying to undermine U.S. institutions. Arizona is a battleground state key to winning the presidential election. Biden was also close friends with Republican Sen. McCain. They served together in the Senate for decades. In response to the heckler, Biden said 'Hang on a second. I'll be happy to meet you after I speak, OK? I'll tell you what if you shush up, I'll meet with you after this... Democracy never is easy as we just demonstrated' To avoid any appearances of judicial interference, Biden has steered clear of commenting on the multiple criminal indictments against Trump - two of which include the former president's involvement in efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss. But Biden, 80, did not hold back in the speech claiming the country would risk its democracy if Trump gets a second term. '[Democracy] means you can't love your country only when you win,' Biden said - clearly referencing Trump's refusal to admit he lost in 2020. He continued in reference to the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack: 'Democracy means rejecting and repudiating political violence. Regardless of party, such violence is never, never, never acceptable in America. It's undemocratic and it must never be normalized to advance political power.' A professor slaughtered by a Dutch student who shot him at the university he taught at has been named and pictured for the first time. Jurgen Damen was one of three people killed in a twin shooting in the port city of Rotterdam on Thursday afternoon. Terrified students, patients and health workers ran for their lives out of the Erasmus Medical Centre, affiliated with Erasmus University, at around 2pm on Thursday in the port city of Rotterdam. A 32-year-old suspect, who has been named as Fouad L. by Dutch media, has been arrested after he allegedly killed a mother and a daughter in their own home and setting it on fire, before travelling to a nearby university and killing 43-year-old Jurgen who worked as a GP and lecturer. It is understood that the mother and daughter, who were attacked in their home, lived near the suspected shooter on Heirman Dullaertplein, near the centre of Rotterdam. Jurgen Damen (pictured) was one of three people killed in a twin shooting in the port city of Rotterdam on Thursday afternoon The alleged shooter, who has been named as Fouad L. by Dutch media, killed three people in a shooting spree that took place across Rotterdam Witnesses to the incident were seen hugging and crying outside the medical faculty Jurgen worked as a GP for the Katendrecht Health Center, run by the Zonboog foundation, since 2010. In 2013, he worked at Erasmus University's medical faculty, where he taught medical students. He obtained his PhD from the university in 2019, and reportedly ended his speech upon receiving his doctorate with a thanks to his wife, telling her: 'Maybe with your inexhaustible positive energy it would have been over sooner. 'We would probably have invested that energy in holidays and other things that make life beautiful. Thank you for your patience. The world is more beautiful with you, I love you.' The director of the Zonboog foundation, Rene Baljon, said: 'The impact is great, for his family, colleagues, but also for his patients. Jurgen was an amiable and committed general practitioner. He was also a trainer. 'Many people in Rotterdam know him. This is also a shock to general practitioner care across the region. We don't know what the perpetrator's motive is, but this is horrible.' Rotterdam's chief prosecutor, Hugo Hillenaar said that the suspected shooter, who has not yet been named, was known to law enforcement as was prosecuted and convicted for abusing his rabbit while drunk in 2021. He was reportedly given a 40-hour community service order for the crime. Police have not yet announced a motive for the deadly attack allegedly carried out by the man, who has only been identified at FL by Dutch media. When asked whether the suspect has previously been rejected from Erasmus' medical faculty, Rotterdam's mayor, Ahmed Aboutaleb, said that that was a scenario 'we are taking into account.' Terrified students were seen fleeing the university medical centre after it came under attack from a gunman Video showed a man being arrested by armed cops after they had stormed the building to see if the shooter was still inside Police launched a manhunt in the Netherlands after an attacker wearing military clothing opened fire Erasmus Medical Centre has since reopened its doors for visitors, and said that it will begin readmitting patients from Friday. Meanwhile, Erasmus University has cancelled all its planned lessons on Friday and has offered counselling to its students. Police said that the shooter will appear before a magistrate on Friday, and will likely be arraigned 'on Monday or Tuesday.' In one video of the shooting, those fleeing could be heard screaming after a loud bang, while a blaze also broke out inside the building. Footage later showed a man being arrested by armed cops after they had stormed the building to see if the shooter, described as a tall man wearing combat clothing, was still inside. Three people have died in the attack that has shocked the Netherlands Several people who were at the scene of the attack have since publicly shared their experiences of the horrific incident unfolding. Eykha, a medical research biotechnician student at the university, said on X, formerly Twitter: 'Cried for hours. My hands are still shaking. It's the darkest day of my entire life.' Kaouther Mouheb, a PhD candidate at the medical faculty, said: 'After leaving the US for not feeling safe... I did not expect to witness such an incident at my work place in the Netherlands.' Meanwhile, Dr. Aleksandra Badura, an associate professor at the university, said: 'I never thought I'd have to worry about an active shooter in the Netherlands but here were are.' She confirmed that everyone in her lab was safely evacuated. Footage shared widely on social media showed scared students sprinting for their lives in Rotterdam Video purportedly showed a classroom on fire at the medical centre in Rotterdam. It is still reportedly burning The university hospital came under attack shortly after a shooting at a nearby home which police are also probing. Officials had earlier confirmed that at least three people were injured across the shootings in Rotterdam this afternoon. But in an updated statement at 4.30pm they said: 'The two shooting incidents in Rotterdam resulted in fatalities. We now first inform family and relatives. We will provide further explanation later.' The unnamed 32-year-old man was arrested under the hospital's helipad and police were investigating his possible involvement in both shootings. Officers said the shooter was carrying a handgun. Dutch media reported that the suspect was previously given a 40-hour community service order for getting drunk and kicking his rabbit, which a vet was forced to put out of its misery. He was also sent before a judge for allegedly shooting a pigeon through the chest, though he was acquitted for this due to a lack of evidence. He was also sent before a judge for allegedly kicking a dog, though it is not currently known if he was ever convicted for this. Dutch cops are currently investigating the home that the mother and daughter were shot at While the mother is understood to have died at the scene, her 14-year-old daughter later died in hospital Police have set up an investigation site at the home of the dead mother and daughter The street has been cordoned off Cops were seen digging up soil in the surrounding area Dutch media were reporting that there were fires at both the house - where the blaze has been put out - and the university hospital, where flames are still burning. De Telegraaf reports that the suspect shot two people at a house on Heiman Dullaertplein in the west of the city. It's understood he then drove to the Erasmus MC, less than a mile away. It was here that a second shooting reportedly took place in a classroom. Several officers, including specialised arrest teams, have been pictured at the hospital which has been cordoned off. Armed police were pictured scouring the roof of the medical centre, while police helicopters hovered over the city. Witnesses described the chaotic scenes around the hospital, as helicopters buzzed overhead and police snipers took up positions on the hospital roof. 'First there was a shooting on the fourth floor. Four or five shots were fired. Then a Molotov cocktail was thrown into the education centre,' a medical student, who did not give his name, told local media. Another eyewitness told a public broadcaster: 'There was a lot of panic and screaming... I didn't hear any shots, just the panic and that's what I started to act on.' Footage shared on social media showed students sprinting through the corridors trying to escape the gunfire and flames. Armed Dutch cops swarmed the medical faculty at Erasmus University An arrest team was checking the Erasmus Medical Center to establish if the shooter was still in the building, police added Police officers direct bystanders away from the entrance to the hospital after it came under fire A patient is taken away from the medical centre in Rotterdam. The university has been cordoned off Medical staff evacuate the Erasmus MC Rotterdam which has been cordoned off by police Medical staff were forced to move patients out of the hospital while still bedbound One student told the Dutch daily: 'We just had to run away from the arrest team to behind the school. Something is not right.' Nigel Jansen, a 26-year-old intern held at gunpoint by armed police, recalled being told: 'Hands up, get out quickly!' He told AD: 'The panic was great. People were running and crying. We had received something, but it was unclear what was going on.' One elderly patient was pictured being evacuated out of the medical centre in a wheelchair as armed police swarmed the building which is home to Rotterdam's Erasmus University's faculty of medicine. Earlier, police said the gunman possibly left the scene on a motorcycle, but they later said an arrest team was checking the Erasmus Medical Centre to establish if he was still in the building. Figures from across the Netherlands have already begun expressing their sympathies for the victims and Rotterdam's residents. 'There is great dismay after the dramatic events in Rotterdam this afternoon,' outgoing Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on X, formerly Twitter. 'My thoughts go out to the victims of the violence, their loved ones and to all the people who have been in great fear. Many thanks to the people of the services for their actions and assistance on site,' he added. Netherlands' police officers gather near the entrance to The Erasmus University Medical Center (Erasmus MC) in Rotterdam on September 28, 2023 Police officers from the special intervention service at the Erasmus MC Rotterdam Several officers, including specialised arrest teams, have been pictured at the hospital which has been cordoned off Armed police were seeing gearing up outside the university Emergency services, including fire and rescue, armed police and ambulance services, are coordinating their efforts Healthcare Minister Ernst Kuipers said: 'Innocent victims were killed today in a place where everyone should feel safe. Attacked in a place where people are treated and doctors of the future are trained. It is difficult for us to comprehend.' The country's royal family have also shared tributes to the victims. King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima said in a statement: 'Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the victims of this afternoon's violent acts in Rotterdam.' In July, two people and a gunman were injured in a shooting at a summer carnival in Rotterdam. The gunman was shot by police several times after opening fire. There have also been scores of small explosions and at homes and businesses across Rotterdam this year, blamed on rival drug gangs. MailOnline has contacted Erasmus University for comment. Rishi Sunak has accused Labour of 'punishing' parents by stoking a 'class war' with its pledge to charge VAT on private school fees. The Prime Minister said the party would be 'clamping down' on hard-working parents with aspirations to send their children to independent schools. His comments came after Labour's education spokesman refused to back down from the widely criticised policy, warning private schools would have to make 'cutbacks'. Shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson told a Mumsnet online discussion yesterday that schools should 'reflect on where they could be making savings' to cover the proposed VAT hike. She said: 'I've always been focused on how we end the tax breaks and how we then use that money to deliver high standards in our state schools.' Mr Sunak told BBC South Today: 'Labour's approach illustrates that they just don't understand the aspiration of families like my parents who were working really hard. They wanted to do something for their kids that they thought would make a difference to them. Labour's approach to that is to clamp down on it. The Prime Minister said the party would be 'clamping down' on hard-working parents with aspirations to send their children to independent schools Labour has U-turned on plans to abolish the charitable status of private schools but insisted it would still add VAT to fees (Pictured: Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves) 'They don't understand the aspiration that people have to provide a better life for their kids. They want to punish them for that as part of some class war. I don't think that is right.' Labour has U-turned on plans to abolish the charitable status of private schools but insisted it would still add VAT to fees. The policy could hit families with unaffordable charges from as early as next September. Labour, citing a study by the Institute for Fiscal Studies think-tank, believes changes to the tax rules could raise as much as 1.5 billion per year. But Shaun Fenton, headteacher at Sir Keir's former school Reigate Grammar, said the policy of abolishing VAT relief on school fees was 'not going to help any child be better educated'. Reigate Grammar in Surrey switched from being a state to an independent school while Sir Keir was in attendance. Mr Fenton predicted the added tax would drive 'thousands' of children into the state system as parents are priced out by the hike in fees. He told Times Radio: 'Everyone knows this isn't really going to raise any money and it's not going to solve any education problems'. Last night Labour said Mr Sunak's comments showed how 'out of touch' the Prime Minister was. Ms Phillipson said: 'The Prime Minister's words are an insult to the aspiration families across Britain have for their children. 'Yet again, he is out of touch with families and out of step with the change we need. 'We're ending tax breaks for private schools to invest in excellent state education for everyone it is up to private schools as to whether they pass that cost on.' Billionaire mining magnate Clive Palmer has pledged $2million to the No campaign in the final weeks before the Voice to parliament referendum. The bulk of that money is set to be used for a last-minute advertising blitz in South Australia and Tasmania, both considered must-win seats for both sides of the debate. Total advertising spend for the Voice is set to near $30million by October 14, with both the No camp and Yes23 focusing on the final weeks of the campaign. Mr Palmer, who spent $117million for his political party United Australia Party in the 2022 election to win just one seat, told The Australian he would also involve his company Mineralogy. Billionaire mining magnate Clive Palmer has pledged $2million to the No campaign in the final weeks before the Voice to parliament referendum He told the newspaper he had not consulted with Indigenous leaders, and that his campaign was not associated with the official No campaign. 'We're spending the money to put our point of view forward. We're targeting Tasmania and South Australia. We'll be advertising in all the states but will be focusing on them,' Mr Palmer said. It's cheaper to spend advertising in Tassie and South Australia. 'I think the No case will win. My prediction is 30 per cent Yes when we get to the polling date. 'If you look at it in the proper context, the most important thing in Australia is not Yes or No at the moment, it's the cost-of-living and how the average Australian is going to make his way.' Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said while the fear campaigns being propped up by multimillion donations could be powerful, 'you never change for the better through fear' Given a referendum needs a majority of votes and a majority of states to be successful, both sides of the campaign are trying to court South Australia and Tasmania. Western Australia and Queensland are largely considered lost to the Yes camp, while Victoria and NSW are more likely to support the change. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said while the fear campaigns being propped up by multimillion donations could be powerful, 'you never change for the better through fear'. 'You change it through hope,' he told ABC Sydney. 'That's what this referendum is about.' He said the campaign would spend the last few weeks making it clear to Australians, especially those undecided and soft no's, that a Voice was about recognition and listening. Remote voting began across the country this week, with pre-polling starting on Monday and Tuesday. YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 28, ARMENPRESS. A senior government official has explained what the ratification of the Rome Statute (the treaty that established the International Criminal Court) by Armenia would mean in the event of Russian president Vladimir Putin visiting the country after the move. Yeghishe Kirakosyan, Armenias Representative on International Legal Affairs, was asked on the possible enforcement of the ICC arrest warrant for Putin. Kirakosyan said that heads of state have immunity. I dont think there can be talk of arrest. The solutions which are based on paragraph 2, article 96 of the Rome Statute have been proposed to our Russian partners. It implies the signing of a bilateral agreement, which allows to create certain guarantees for the concerns that some partner countries might have. The text was presented months ago, we are waiting for our partners proposal, Kirakosyan said. The Armenian government on September 1 sent the Rome Statute to parliament for ratification. A parliamentary committee approved the bill on September 28 and the ratification bill will be debated at a plenary session. In 2022, the Pashinyan Administration explained that it seeks to join the Rome Statute because it would allow to hold the government of Azerbaijan to account for its aggressions against Armenia. On 17 March 2023, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, after an investigation of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide in Ukraine. The ICC arrest warrant for Putin accuses the Russian leader of unlawfully deporting thousands of Ukrainian children, a war crime. This has been denied by the Russian government. Countries that are signatories to the Rome Statute would have to enforce the arrest warrant once Putin travels into their territory. A 165,000-a-year police chief is at the centre of a fakery row today after he was accused of wearing a Falklands War service medal - despite being only 15 during the conflict. Northamptonshire Chief Constable Nick Adderley, 57, who was once tipped for a top job at the Met, is now being investigated by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). He is facing accusations of 'stolen valour' which could lead to the IOPC launching a gross misconduct board hearing and his potential dismissal. Video footage has revealed how the police boss flaunted the South Atlantic Medal, which was gifted to British military personnel who served in the 1982 war between Britain and Argentina. The married father of two, who was among the frontrunners to take on the Met before Sir Mark Rowley became commissioner in 2022, is accused of wearing it at a string of events including the Police Bravery Awards in July. If the accusations are true, he faces claims of being a Walter Mitty-style fantasist. Chief Constable Adderley is understood to have enlisted in the Navy in 1984 aged 18 - two years after the Falklands War ended. He was in the cadets from the age of 15. Chief Constable Nick Adderley (pictured) is accused of stolen valour for wearing the South Atlantic Medal (circled far left) given to Falklands veterans. He was 15 at the time The married father of two, 57, (left) is now being investigated by the police watchdog for wearing the medals at various events The police watchdog received a tip-off that the chief constable was repeatedly wearing the South Atlantic Medal The South Atlantic Medal (pictured) was only given to soldiers who fought in the 1982 conflict between Britain and Argentina Former First Sea Lord Admiral Lord West, awarded a Distinguished Service Cross for bravery in the Falklands, told The Sun: 'It's very unfortunate when someone wears a medal they are not entitled to. 'They are misleading themselves and misleading people around them, especially if they are in a position of authority.' What is 'stolen valour' and is it illegal? Stolen Valour is the term commonly applied to the phenomenon of individuals wearing military medals or decorations that they have not been awarded, with the intent to deceive. Such individuals usually display their medals on military uniform that they have no right to wear and are often referred to as military imposters. Examples of military imposters are often reported in the press, especially following commemorative occasions such as Remembrance Day, when there are large gatherings of service personnel in uniform displaying their medals. There are suggestions that the phenomenon of military imposters is becoming more common, with the growth of the internet providing an avenue for increased exposure of such individuals. It is not an offence in the UK for individuals to wear medals or decorations that they were not awarded - but it is an offence to wear a military medal without permission, according to the UK Parliament. Advertisement A Northamptonshire Police press release from July said he served 'in the Navy for ten years including the Falklands' according to The Sun, though this has since been removed. The IOPC reportedly launched its probe after receiving a tip-off from the local Police, Fire & Crime Commissioner. Rear Admiral Doctor Chris Parry, who fought in the Falklands War, helping sink an enemy submarine, asked: 'If a person lies about their medals what else would they lie about?' The watchdog is looking into allegations of potential misrepresentation of his military service, as well as communications with the commissioner. But Chief Constable Adderley said he was 'very proud of his Cadet, Royal Navy and Police Service', adding he also wears medals awarded to his brothers with no further clarification. 'I wear all my medals with pride and have always worn the two medals my brothers gave me to wear when one became critically ill and one emigrated, alongside my own. 'Having been made aware of this complaint, which has a private family impact upon me personally, I immediately took advice last week regarding the protocol and have changed the side of my chest on which these medals are worn. 'I look forward to providing the IOPC with a fulsome response at the earliest opportunity and I fully appreciate that they have a job to do.' The top cop has also been seen wearing several other medals, including the Queen's Golden and Diamond Jubilee medals. 'Stolen Valour' is the term commonly applied to the act of wearing military medals or decorations that have not been earned with the intent to deceive. It is not an offence in the UK for individuals to wear medals or decorations that they were not awarded - but it is an offence to wear a military medal without permission, according to the UK Parliament's briefing on Stolen Valour. MailOnline has contacted Northamptonshire Police and the IOPC for comment. Chief Constable Adderley is understood to have enlisted in the Navy in 1984 aged 18 - two years after the Falklands War ended British soldiers during the Falklands Conflict in June 1982 In 2021 Chief Constable Adderley was referred to the police watchdog following the tragic death of Harry Dunn after the 19-year-old was struck and killed by US citizen Anne Sacoolas, who then fled the country. Internal emails showed he described the spokesman for the family as an 'issue'. He faced calls from the Dunn family to resign in October 2019 after a 'disgraceful' tweet in which he commented on their legal battles with: 'How sad but how predictable'. Chief Constable Adderley apologised to the Dunn family two months later for a 'breakdown' in communications - describing his comments as 'misconstrued'. Mr Dunn was killed when his motorbike crashed into Sacoolas's car outside US military base RAF Croughton in Northamptonshire in August 2019. Sacoolas, 43, had diplomatic immunity asserted on her behalf by the US government following the crash and she was able to return to her home country. Sacoolas was brought to justice after an extraordinary campaign by Harry's family and she was sentenced to eight months in prison, suspended for a year In 2021, he was referred to the police watchdog following the tragic death of Harry Dunn Mr Dunn, 19, was killed when his motorbike crashed into a car outside US military base RAF Croughton in Northamptonshire in August 2019 The suspect, Anne Sacoolas, had diplomatic immunity asserted on her behalf by the US government following the crash and she was able to return to her home country Internal emails showed Chief Constable Adderley described Radd Seiger (pictured), the spokesman for the Dunn family, as an 'issue' Emails obtained through a subject access request have shown how Chief Constable Adderley warned the Home Office 'that the issue is with the family's spokesperson [Radd Seiger], who would disclose any engagement to the media and may not do so accurately'. The Northamptonshire force had also made its views clear to the Foreign Office on the Interpol notice issued for the suspect - which emails have suggested was a diffusion notice and not a red notice. Emails showed that the police 'regretted the email that had gone out to Harry Dunn's family's spokesperson', adding 'Northants Police maintain that it was not their intention to provide the information to the family'. Internal Home Office communications from May 13 also revealed how they suggested the force 'be more open' with the Dunn family about the Interpol notice 'as we don't want them to feel abandoned'. But Chief Constable Adderley rejected the suggestion, saying: 'Following our telephone conversation this morning and taking into consideration the Judicial Review we are party to, I have taken the decision not to write to the family, or the family spokesperson.' He also sparked a backlash after he said officers may have to search shopping trolleys during the Covid lockdown if the public flout the rules. Chief Constable Adderley warned that police could soon have to snoop on shoppers or impose road blocks to check people were leaving their homes for only essential reasons. The Northamptonshire Police chief claimed the public had enjoyed a 'three-week grace period' and said his force will now be issuing 60 fines and arresting those caught outside without a good reason. His controversial remarks on lockdown rules were met with a slapdown from then home secretary Priti Patel He said: 'We will not, at this stage, be setting up road blocks. 'We will not, at this stage, start to marshal supermarkets and check the items in baskets and trolleys to see whether it's a necessary item. 'But be under no illusion, if people do not heed the warnings and the pleas I'm making today, we will start to do that.' After his comments, Chief Constable Adderley came under pressure from the National Police Chiefs Council, which issued a press release saying: 'The Chief Constable of Northamptonshire Police has clarified his earlier statement about police checking people's shopping, confirming that this will not happen.' And his controversial remarks were met with a slapdown from then home secretary Priti Patel. She said the Government was 'absolutely not' considering more stringent lockdown restrictions. An NHS trust at the centre of a baby-death scandal is facing another inquiry into maternity care amid fears children's lives remain at risk, the Mail has learned. University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Trust was criticised in the Kirkup Report eight years ago after 11 babies and a mother died unnecessarily because of 'cavalier' midwives and failings at Furness General Hospital. Tomorrow, a coroner is expected to order an 'enhanced' inquest into maternity care at another of its hospitals, the Royal Lancaster Infirmary. It follows a four-year fight by the parents of a baby girl who died at seven days old because of alleged birth blunders by midwives. Sarah Robinson and Ryan Lock say hospital staff repeatedly insisted there had been no failings when daughter, Ida, was born and that employees tried to cover up what happened even after experts flagged up a catalogue of concerns. A coroner is expected to order an 'enhanced' inquest into maternity care at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary Eleven babies and a mother died unnecessarily because of 'cavalier' midwives and failings at Furness General Hospital (file image) Only after they alerted the coroner themselves and an inquest had been scheduled did the trust finally accept almost four years on that she may have lived had mistakes not been made. READ MORE: How bad are waiting lists at YOUR hospital? Use our search tool to find out Advertisement Coroner Dr James Adeley told a pre-inquest hearing in Preston this week he was concerned it had been left to Ida's parents to report her death to his office after hospital managers failed to do so. He said he was worried 'systemic' problems in maternity care identified by Dr Bill Kirkup in March 2015 had not been addressed. He said he could 'not recall' a single baby death being reported to him since. Dr Adeley said. 'There's no indication that matters identified in the Kirkup Report have been addressed before this case. That suggests a lack of learning from the report continues to exist, and continues to place lives at risk.' Mr Lock, 40, a secondary school teacher, accused the trust of being 'barbaric and cruel'. 'It is shameful the way we've been treated,' he added. Anna Mills-Morgan, a lawyer with Mackenzie Jones Solicitors who is representing Ida's parents, told the Mail: 'How many other cases are there where the coroner hasn't been notified? Parents and families shouldn't be the ones forcing action.' The inquest will be held early next year. MPs have warned that the BBC's new social media policy for its stars will mean the broadcaster 'is no longer impartial', giving those like Gary Lineker the green light to air anti-Tory political views. Yesterday it revealed how in its updated rules, stars on 'flagship programmes' will be 'free to express opinions about the issues that matter' to them, including on 'issues that may be the subject of public political debate'. The new guidance follows a review ordered after the Match of the Day host compared the language used in the Government's migration crackdown to Nazi Germany. The new guidelines make clear that top stars cannot 'endorse or attack a political party' or 'criticise the character of individual politicians in the UK' during the period in which their shows are running on television schedules. The regulations also that these high-profile presenters cannot comment on an issue that is 'a matter of political debate' during general elections and referendums. Yet the BBC has been warned that the new guidelines mean it's 'open season' for presenters to say what they want online which 'will not end well' for the broadcaster. Gary Lineker was at the centre of an impartiality crisis in March over social media posts comparing language used in the Government's migration crackdown to '1930s Germany' Brendan Clarke-Smith, MP for Bassetlaw, told The Express: 'This is effectively open season for presenters to say what they like. Other than explicitly saying "vote Labour" they don't appear to have any restrictions at all'. Jonathan Gullis, MP for Stoke-on-Trenth North, added that the guidance proved the broadcaster is 'no longer impartial' while Karl McCartney said the new rules 'will not end well for either the BBC nor individual presenters themselves'. The BBC said the specific guidance for flagship programmes 'recognises the importance of freedom of expression'. But others accused accused the BBC of 'empowering' the presenter to continue tweeting about highly-contentious issues through the open-ended and poorly defined guidelines. And, because the rules only apply to 'flagship programmes', many well-known BBC hosts are not covered, including Springwatch star Chris Packham, who has publicly defended eco-activists breaking the law. Former head of the corporation's editorial policy Richard Ayre said on BBC News: 'The fact that Gary Lineker has welcomed these guidelines tells you quite a lot about what Gary thinks about them. I think he must believe that they empower him to say pretty much what he has already said.' He added: 'I suspect Gary will feel able to continue to say the sort of things he said before, I think it probably is a win for Gary Lineker.' BBC staff working in news and current affairs and factual journalism will still have to abide by stricter rules on impartiality than other types of on-air stars. The new rules come after a review was carried out by former ITN chief executive John Hardie into the issue. Lineker is the presenter of Match of the Day on the BBC and one of its highest paid stars The regulations also that these high-profile presenters cannot comment on an issue that is 'a matter of political debate' during general elections and referendums This came in the wake of the impartiality crisis sparked in March when Lineker used social media to compare the language used in the Government's migration crackdown to '1930s Germany'. The BBC stood the Match of the Day host down from the show following the comment, which prompted other BBC sport presenters, commentators and pundits to boycott the corporation's shows. BBC director-general Tim Davie ended the crisis by reinstating Lineker and promising a review into the guidelines, which he had admitted were affected by 'grey areas'. But for many the new rules have done little to settle the issue over the guidelines over the social media activity of BBC stars, with complaints they are still confusing. Tory MP Peter Bone said: 'In my book if we are going to have a state broadcaster and they are going to pay extraordinary amounts of money to presenters, they should be politically neutral. I don't want to know what their political views are.' Setting out his recommendations, Mr Hardie said: 'High-profile presenters outside of journalism should be able to express views on issues and policies including matters of political contention but stop well short of campaigning in party politics or for activist organisations'. Mr Davie said: 'The new guidance, which includes new requirements for presenters of our flagship programmes, is both proportionate and fair and protects these commitments.' Mr Ayre said that the guidelines were so open to interpretation, it was possible that the tweet comparing a Government minister's rhetoric to Nazi propaganda may well be allowed under the new rules. He said: 'I don't see anything in the new guidelines which will stop him from saying that again.' A chilling video predicted the safety issue of falling from scaffolding onto concrete floor and steps at a construction site where a young apprentice plunged and was fatally injured. Tyler Whitton, who had only just turned 17 and started work as an apprentice builder, fell around three metres at about 1:30pm on Tuesday at a building site on Victoria Street in the inner-city suburb of West End, Brisbane. He was rushed to the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital in a serious condition where he was placed in an induced coma but could not be revived. The Construction Forestry Maritime Mining And Energy Union (CFMEU) on June 16 posted on social media a video they undertook a site inspection where they said a 'huge fall from heights' was a major safety concern. Tyler Whitton, 17, has died after falling from a construction site where he was working as an apprentice builder 'We've got fall from heights around the edge of the building, straight over the edge,' the narrator of the video said while showing a drop of metres from scaffolding to concrete floor and steps. The union said they were inspecting the site that they made a video because workers had reached out to them that morning with safety concerns. READ MORE: Tradie is crushed to death by a metal pole during an accident on a work site in Melbourne Advertisement 'Workers have raised these concerns to the builder and told the CFMEU they were not given the time to clean the site or follow simple safety procedures,' the union said at the time. On Wednesday CFMEU state secretary Michael Ravbar slammed Workplace Health and Safety Queensland for allowing work to continue at the site on Tuesday after Tyler was taken to hospital. 'After it took three hours for WHSQ to show up, the developer was allowed to complete the concrete pour despite clearly identified risk of falls from height at a number of locations on the top deck of the site,' he said. 'All under the watch of a broken regulator that is supposed to manage workplace health and safety.' A video shot of a site inspection in June by the construction union highlighted the danger of falling Site developer CS Development Group has been contacted for comment. A spokesperson for Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) told Daily Mail Australian on Thursday that 'inspectors were immediately dispatched to the worksite'. 'Inspectors issued a non-disturbance notice to secure the incident scene and commenced investigations,' the spokesperson said. 'WHSQ understands all works on site ceased immediately after the incident except a concrete pouring operation in a different area of the site. These activities concluded approximately 30 minutes after WHSQ arrived on site. 'Compliance notices have been issued requiring rectification of a number of high risk issues before works can recommence.' The spokesperson said inspectors had visited the site before Tuesday's tragic accident. 'WHSQ's proactive visit to the site on 28 June 2023 resulted in two enforcement notices being issued not related to fall from heights - which were complied with by the due date,' the spokesperson said. 'Outside of the current investigation, Workplace Health and Safety Queensland will continue to monitor the site for compliance with health and safety obligations.' Members of Tyler's family have shared their heartbreak over the workplace incident. His aunt said: 'Today we said the hardest goodbye to our beautiful, strong, funny, caring, loving, amazing nephew Tyler George.' 'Words can't describe the pain of saying goodbye. We are heartbroken,' they said. 'You just turned 17 and had so much to look forward to moving into the next stage of your journey. On Wednesday CFMEU state secretary Michael Ravbar slammed Workplace Health and Safety Queensland for allowing work to continue at the site on Tuesday after Tyler was taken to hospital The apprentice builder's grandfather Jack Whitton posted a heart-wrenching tribute to him on Facebook. 'It is with a heavy heart and heart felt sadness, that today I say goodbye to my beloved beautiful grandson Tyler,' Mr Whitton wrote. 'Words cannot describe the pain and complete numbness we are all experiencing... knowing that we needed to let him go.' Mr Whitton said he could not imagine the pain his son Luke, Tyler's dad, partner Letitia and Tyler's mother, Jess, are going through. 'Tyler, you touched so many hearts with your life,' Mr Whitton wrote. 'A parent nor grandparent should never have to bury their child, yet here we are. 'We will send Tyler with great love in our hearts onward to his next journey.' Tyler also kept fit by doing kickboxing with his Muay Thai club at Bulimba posting a heartfelt tribute. 'Today we said goodbye to our young gun superstar Tyler,' the club said. 'He showed up to support every fighter at the shows, always worked hard and often talked about becoming a champion fighter, he was budding with potential.' 'A beautiful kid with a heart of absolute gold. We are so proud of him and know his legacy will live on through the lives of others that he inspired.' Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez on Thursday accused a Stetson-wearing Elon Musk of taking a 'joyride' to the U.S.-Mexico border, after he traveled to the Texan city of Eagle Pass and warned some 'pretty extreme people' were arriving illegally. Musk said he was concerned about stories of violent criminals finding their way into the country among those fleeing poverty and conflict. He discussed stories of people with gang tattoos on their faces being allowed to claim asylum, and said it was 'insane'. 'They have murdered someone and they are so proud of having murdered someone they tattoo one tear on their face for every person they have killed,' said Musk. 'And this person claimed asylum. And we let them in. A serial murderer. Who is proud of their murders. This is insane.' Ocasio-Cortez, who has long been critical of Musk, condemned his visit to the city and singled out his guide, local Republican congressman Tony Gonzalez, for particular scorn. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has long been engaged in a war of words with Elon Musk Elon Musk is seen on Thursday in the town of Eagle Pass, Texas, with Congressman Tony Gonzalez Musk and Gonzalez are seen surveying the scene on Thursday, with the congressman acting as a guide 'What's funny about this photo?' she wrote on X on Thursday. 'The House is holding important votes in DC tonight, people are scrambling to avoid a shutdown, but this Republican Congressman decided to skip town to joyride with a billionaire when his own party has just a single-digit margin and needs his vote.' The day before, Musk had mocked the Democrat congresswoman, responding to her claim that more migrants entered the U.S. through Ellis Island than were arriving illegally across the Rio Grande. Musk commented: 'She's just not that smart.' Ocasio-Cortez hit back, replying to Musk: 'I wasn't born rich and became the youngest woman in American history to be elected to Congress. Then I investigated Cohen, authored the largest FEMA funeral assistance program in history and led creation of a US Climate Corps to create tens of thousands of new jobs. 'Stay mad.' Her anger at Musk came after he warned, while in Eagle Pass, that New York City's inability to cope with the migrant crisis was an ominous sign for the rest of the country. In his livestream from Eagle Pass, Texas, Musk said he wanted to share with his 158 million followers scenes from the overwhelmed border town, and at one point turned his camera on rows of people sitting on the ground awaiting processing under a bridge. But the stream crashed after only four minutes, in an echo of his disastrous attempt to host Ron DeSantis's campaign launch on X. That broadcast, too, was marred by repeated collapse of the connection. The South African-born Musk insisted on Thursday that he was 'extremely pro-immigrant', but said he wanted to see the system regulated. And he warned that violent criminals were among the migrants. Musk is seen with the mayor of Eagle Pass, Rolando Salinas, in a white shirt, on Thursday Musk waves towards the crowd of migrants on the other side, beyond the rolls of razor wire Musk and local officials toured the crossing site, where thousands of migrants pour into the United States daily 'We are in this absurd situation where the vast majority of people are not in fact asylum seekers - you can actually read on Google in any language you want what are the magic words you need to say,' said Musk. 'And then you are automatically in the asylum, sort of, queue. Which takes several years before you actually see anyone. And then even if you do see one, even if you are denied, you are not deported.' Gonzalez agreed, saying it served to attract more people, and undermine the prospects of those attempting to get into the United States legally. Musk continued: 'To be clear, we are both very much in favor of expanded legal immigration. 'I think anyone who is hard-working and honest and will be a net addition to the economy - I think we should let them in. 'But I mean what we are seeing are, in some cases, some pretty extreme individuals coming through. Obviously not suggesting everyone is like this. 'But you are talking about a guy who came through who had face tattoos - including tears, tattooed on his face.' Inmates are seen in a prison in El Salvador, the Centre for the Confinement of Terrorism (CECOT) in Tecoluca. Face tattoos in Latin America are a sign of gang membership Musk said that some migrants with tattoos on their faces signifying they had murdered people were being let in. Pictured: an inmate at a prison in El Salvador Musk explained that a tear tattoo, on the face, was a gangland indication of having murdered someone. 'They have murdered someone and they are so proud of having murdered someone they tattoo one tear on their face for every person they have killed,' said Musk. 'And this person claimed asylum. And we let them in. A serial murderer. Who is proud of their murders. This is insane.' Gonzalez said it was 'a big deal' to have a neck tattoo or a face tattoo in Central and Southern America, and 'these are people no one should want in their communities'. 'Yeah, safe to say, if someone is a multiple murderer with tattoos on their face they are unrepentant, to say the least,' said Musk. 'Most likely if they are murdering people somewhere else, they will continue with that tradition.' A Stetson-wearing Elon Musk was in Eagle Pass, Texas on Thursday to try and livestream interviews from the struggling border city. He warned the livestream would be 'raw' and unedited - and indeed, it collapsed after only four minutes Musk is seen in Eagle Pass, Texas, on Thursday attempting to livestream interviews with local officials Musk opened by saying he was there to 'eyeball what was going on, so you can get the real story.' It is thought that 100,000 people waded through the Rio Grande and into the town last week. In the last 10 days, law enforcement in Eagle Pass have also arrested more than 17,000 illegal immigrants, according to the Washington Examiner. Shelters in border towns like Eagle Pass have been stretched well over capacity due to the thousands of crossings every day. Flanked by Tony Gonzalez, the local congressman, Musk said: 'This is not a piece that is being filmed and subsequently edited. This is the raw feed, right here.' He added: 'As an immigrant to the United States I am extremely pro-immigrant, and I believe we need an expanded immigration system so anyone who is hard-working and honest should be let in. 'But we should not let in people breaking the law. That doesn't make sense. The law is there for a reason.' He said it was important to stop 'a flow of people that is of such magnitude that it is leading to a collapse of essential services, and causing even America's largest city, New York, to buckle under the pressure.' The South African-born billionaire added: 'If New York can't handle it, pretty much no part of the country can.' The live stream then crashed, after only four minutes. Eagle Pass has seen a surge in migrant crossings in the last weeks, with 7,500 crossing the Rio Grande in two days. Harrowing images from the porous border show droves of migrants traversing difficult terrain and wading through the Rio Grande river. Families are seen clinging to each other, with some struggling to carry soaking wet bags of belongings across the water. After crossing from the Mexico side in Piedras Negras, the asylum seekers are met by law enforcement, including the National Guard, before they reach long lines of razor wire. Officers are seen helping people through the terrain, including lifting small children exhausted by the journey to safety, while many migrants are pictured queuing up as they wait to be processed. Musk's livestream returned after a 30-minute delay, and the connection held for 11 minutes before Musk signed off, as it crashed again. Gonzalez, the local congressman, said that this district needed more help. 'It's not a partisan issue,' said Gonzalez. 'It's a policy issue. We can be humane, we can protect those who need asylum, and expel those who do not.' Throughout the month of August, upwards of 232,000 migrants crossed the US-Mexico border - and up to two million are estimated to have crossed this year Some migrants were seen struggling with soaking wet bags of belongings as they tried to cross the river, where they were met by military troops on the Texas side After making their way into the US, many migrants were seen queueing up as they waited to be processed by border agents Musk added that he had heard you could search on Google for the correct terms to say to trigger an asylum claim. 'What we are seeing here in some cases is pretty extreme individuals coming through,' said Musk. 'Obviously not everyone is like that.' Musk said that he had heard stories of 'unrepentant murderers' with tear tattoos on their faces who had claimed asylum, and vanished into the system. He told Gonzalez: 'This sounds like complete madness.' Gonzalez replied: 'It is. Imagine having to live in it every day. That's why it is so important for you to come down here. Does any of this look normal to you?' Musk asked some Border Patrol agents if they wanted to speak, but they told him they were not authorized to do so. 'Anyone else we can talk to?' he asked Gonzalez, before ending the livestream for good. Many migrants, including young children, are the victims of elaborate multi-billion dollar human trafficking schemes that are run by drug cartels that funnel people over the border A border agent walked along lines of razor wire near the border in Eagle Pass, Texas A large percentage of the migrants are from Venezuela, which has been economically devastated in recent years while the nation's population plummets As officials scramble for solutions, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has led the movement to bus migrants to northern states to share the burden of ineffective border policies while bringing the crisis to national attention. In New York, where over 100,000 migrants have poured into the city, Mayor Eric Adams admitted this month that the influx could 'destroy' the Big Apple. But the mayor of Eagle Pass, Rolando Salinas, criticized the comments as he slammed Biden's response to the influx in Eagle Pass, saying on social media this week: 'We're not a city that has the resources of New York, Chicago, cities like that. 'You already see big cities already complaining that they're getting large amounts of undocumented immigrants. I mean, we're Eagle Pass. We only have limited resources, so this is not sustainable. 'As a mayor, what's disappointing is that we haven't heard from the president of the United States or the vice president of the United States... 'To this day, I haven't heard of a concrete plan of action to stop this from continuing to happen. Sometimes, we feel kind of abandoned here at the at the border here in Eagle Pass.' EXCLUSIVE The sole survivor of the deadly mushroom lunch had security cameras erected outside his home just days after his release from hospital. Pastor Ian Wilkinson was the only person to survive the poisonous beef Wellington dished up on July 29 by stay-at-home mum Erin Patterson in Victoria's east. His wife Heather, 66, and her sister Gail and husband Don Patterson had been invited over for lunch as part of a 'mediation' gathering to discuss Ms Patterson's relationship with her estranged husband Simon, who pulled out at the last minute. Ian Wilkinson and Heather Wilkinson (both pictured). Ian Wilkinson has been released from hospital after spending weeks recovering from a poisonous mushroom lunch that claimed the lives of three others including his wife An electrician spent Monday erecting CCTV cameras outside of Ian WIlkinson's home Erin Patterson is pictured outside her home days after serving the killer meal An electrician erected several cameras around Mr Wilkinson's home in Korumburra on Monday - two days after it was revealed he had been miraculously released from hospital. The technician could be seen installing cameras at multiple entry points around the home, where Mr Wilkinson lived with his wife Heather up until her tragic death. It remains unclear what specific security concerns Mr Wilkinson has. Daily Mail Australia does not suggest it is Erin Patterson. Victoria Police has declined to comment on claims by veteran crime reporter John Silvester that forensic tests have led police to conclude the mushrooms in the infamous meal were responsible for the trio's deaths. Meanwhile, Heather Wilkinson will be honoured in a public service on October 4 in Korumburra. Members of the tight-knit Korumburra Baptist Church met at a Korumburra bakery on Monday to plan the secret service. The memorial is expected to be similar to that held for the Pattersons on August 31 when more than 450 mourners gathered at the Korumburra Recreation Centre to pay their respects to the beloved couple. Mr Wilkinson has not been spotted in public since his release from the Austin Hospital and it remains unknown if he has yet spoken to homicide detectives. On Monday, friends rallied around the 68-year old and could be seen coming and going throughout the day. A home care provider has been in regular contact with Mr Wilkinson and routinely visits his home as he continues to try and recover enough to attend next week's memorial. A home carer visits Ian WIlkinson on Tuesday Erin's former in-laws Don and Gail Patterson (pictured) died a week after attending the lunch It remains unknown if Mrs Wilkinson was buried while he was still recovering in hospital. The Pattersons had been buried at a private service while he was still receiving treatment. Mr Wilkinson is expected to address mourners at the service as Simon Patterson did for his parents last month. Mr Wilkinson's release from hospital is being hailed a miracle by his congregation. Last Saturday - the same day, a service was held at the Korumburra Baptist Church where Mr Wilkinson is the pastor - parishioners gathered to celebrate the news they had been praying for. Simon Patterson, who is the son of Don and Gail and the estranged husband of Erin, sat in the front row for the service. 'Everyone in this community, and even the outskirts, have felt and been praying on their knees about his recovery and prayers are answered,' one parishioner told 7NEWS. 'Weve all got questions, but hopefully theyll get answered. 'The truth will come out and then well all be able to, in a sense, relax because then therell be some closure.' Simon Patterson paid tribute to his parents at a public memorial last month The final resting place of Don and Gail Patterson Mr Wilkinson's family confirmed he was now making 'significant progress' at home. 'This milestone marks a moment of immense relief and gratitude for Ian and the entire Wilkinson family,' they said. Mr Wilkinson's family has launched an appeal for donations, in lieu of flowers, to be offered to the Austin Hospital or through SIM Australia to the Galmi Hospital in Niger, West Africa, a cause that was close to Heather's heart. Those wishing to make a donation in Heathers memory are invited to go to the Mycause website or search Mycause Heather Wilkinson. Boffins made the discovery at the European Organisation for Nuclear Research Scientists claim to have made a 'milestone' discovery and proven Albert Einstein right in the process by showing for the first time that antimatter falls in gravity. Boffins at the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN), in Switzerland, claim to have validated the famed physicist's theory of general relativity through observations of the mysterious antiparticles. Antimatter is the opposite of matter, from which stars, planets and humans are made, but is notoriously hard to detect as it exists for only moments at a time before being destroyed on contact with normal matter in a process called annihilation. But researchers at CERN say that for the first time they have shown that it experiences gravity in the same way as normal matter, in that it falls like all other objects. The discovery has delighted scientists, with Professor Jeffrey Hangst, spokesman for the experiment saying: 'This is the first direct experiment to actually observe a gravitational effect on the motion of antimatter. It's a milestone.' Boffins at the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) say they have observed antimatter falling in gravity. Pictured: A worker inserts ALPHA-g apparatus at CERN in Geneva Researchers claim the observations validate Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity. Pictured: The famed physicist in 1939 Antimatter is the enigmatic twin of ordinary matter, possessing the same mass but with an opposite electrical charge. Almost all subatomic particles, such as electrons and protons, have an antimatter counterpart. While electrons are negatively charged, antielectrons, also called positrons, are positively charged. Likewise, while protons are positively charged, antiprotons are negatively charged. READ MORE HERE: A new force of nature? Scientists close in on a fifth force as they discover a mysterious subatomic particle disobeying the laws of physics Advertisement Around 13.8 billion years ago, the Big Bang is believed to have produced an equal amount of matter - what everything you can see is made out of - and antimatter, its equal yet opposite counterpart. However there is virtually no antimatter in the universe, which prompted one of the greatest mysteries of physics: what happened to all the antimatter? 'Half the universe is missing,' Prof Hangst told AFP. 'In principle, we could build a universe - everything that we know about - with only antimatter, and it would work in exactly the same way.' Physicists believe that matter and antimatter did meet and almost entirely destroyed each other after the Big Bang. Yet matter now makes up nearly five percent of the universe - the rest is even less understood dark matter and dark energy - while antimatter vanished. One of the key outstanding questions about antimatter was whether gravity caused it to fall in the same way as normal matter. While most physicists believed that it did, a few had speculated otherwise. A falling apple famously inspired Isaac Newton's work on gravity - but if that apple was made of antimatter, would it have shot up into the sky? And if gravity did in fact repel antimatter, it could have meant that impossibilities such as a perpetual motion machine were possible. 'So why not drop some and see what happens?' Hangst said. The experiment involved the antimatter counterpart of hydrogen, the lightest of the elements. Pictured: An illustration showing an artist's impression of the anti-matter gravity experiment The experiment took place at CERN in Geneva, Switzerland, which hosts the Large Hadron Collider (pictured) The experiment was conducted at CERN in Switzerland by researchers from the international Antihydrogen Laser Physics Apparatus (ALPHA) collaboration. It involved the antimatter counterpart of hydrogen, the lightest of the elements. 'On Earth, most antimatter that occurs naturally is produced from cosmic rays - energetic particles from space - that collide with atoms in the air and create antimatter-matter pairs,' said physicist Jonathan Wurtele of the University of California, Berkeley, co-author of the study published in the journal Nature. This newly created antimatter lasts only until it hits a normal matter atom in the lower atmosphere. However, antimatter can be synthesised under controlled conditions, as in the ALPHA experiment, which used antihydrogen created at CERN. The antihydrogen was contained within a cylindrical vacuum chamber and trapped with magnetic fields at the top and bottom. READ MORE HERE: Einstein's E = mc equation has been used to create matter from pure light for the first time by smashing ions together at close to the speed of light Advertisement The researchers reduced the magnetic fields to set the antimatter free in order to observe whether or not it would fall once the influence of gravity became apparent. It did, behaving as hydrogen would in the same conditions. 'This result was predicted by theory, and indirect experiments that relied on subtle phenomena. But no group had ever done a direct experiment in which antimatter was simply dropped to see which way it would fall,' UC Berkeley physicist and study co-author Joel Fajans said. 'Our experiment rules out other theories that require antimatter to rise - 'anti-gravity' - in the Earth's gravitational field,' Wurtele added. While Einstein devised his theory of general relativity - a comprehensive explanation of gravity - before antimatter was discovered in 1932, he treated all matter with equivalence, meaning that antimatter would be expected to respond the same way to gravitational forces as matter. But what if antimatter had defied expectations? 'This would have been an enormous surprise, as it would be in significant contradiction with many theories,' said physicist and study co-author William Bertsche of the University of Manchester in England, who conducts experiments at CERN and serves as a deputy spokesperson for the ALPHA collaboration. 'I think this is a testament to the strength of general relativity and its equivalence principles,' Bertsche added. Scientists remain puzzled by antimatter's scarcity in the observable universe. For instance, there is no indication of galaxies made of antimatter. 'The nearly complete absence of naturally occurring antimatter is one of the great questions facing physics,' Wurtele said. In showing that antimatter and matter are gravitationally attracted, the experiment ruled out one possible explanation for antimatter's scarcity - that it was gravitationally repelled by matter during the Big Bang. 'No matter how pretty the theory, physics is an experimental science,' Fajans said. Social media users have been trying to wrap their heads around this map which shows it's possible to sail directly from India to the USA in a completely straight line. Budding sailors could theoretically set off from India and arrive 8,000 miles (13,000km) later in the far east of Alaska without once touching the helm or hitting land. Your globe-spanning journey would take you within eight miles (13km) of the coast of Madagascar and would skirt through Antarctica as you passed icy King George Island before crossing the entire Pacific Ocean. While ocean currents and Antarctic ice sheets might make this route practically impossible, many commenters on the post shared on X (formerly Twitter) user Epic Maps were amazed by this discovery. Even Elon Musk, CEO of X was impressed, simply saying: 'Woah'. Social media users have been trying to wrap their heads around this map which shows it's possible to sail directly from India to the USA in a completely straight line because Earth is a globe and this is a 2d projection, this is what the path actually looks like pic.twitter.com/1MnxhXAfMG c (@sekira22) September 27, 2023 READ MORE: The REAL map of the world: Clever 'to scale' chart reveals the true size of Earth's countries (and Russia, Canada and Greenland are MUCH smaller than you think!) Representative: This clever 'to scale' chart reveals the true size of Earth's countries Advertisement Other commenters meanwhile seemed to be preparing for an adventure of their own, pointing out that the route was 'getting pretty close to Antarctica' and that they had 'always wanted to check that place out'. But if this map seems a little less than straightforward, you wouldn't be alone. Commenters on X (formerly Twitter) were sceptical of what appears to show a quite clearly curved line. 'This line is far from straight' said one confused commenter while another added 'that's not straight though'. Other social media users questioned whether the map maker really knew what they were talking about, asking 'do y'all know what a straight line is?'. However, even though it might not look straight on a 2-dimensional map this line is in fact 'straight' when drawn on a globe. Obviously, you can't have a line on a sphere that is perfectly straight in all dimensions - that would be like trying to wrap a ruler around the surface of the globe. What it means to say that a line is straight on the surface of a sphere is to say that it doesn't turn left or right but makes a continuous line in one direction. Rather than a ruler, this would be like wrapping an elastic band or piece of string around the globe. If you put that band in the right place, it could connect Alaska and India without touching any other bits of land. While ocean currents and Antarctic ice sheets might make this route practically impossible, many commenters on the post shared on X (formerly Twitter) user Epic Maps were amazed by this discovery Even Elon Musk, CEO of X was impressed, simply saying: 'Woah' Not everyone was so convinced by the map, with one user quipping 'this line is far from straight' READ MORE: Scientists create the 'most accurate flat map ever' that is two-sided and round, letting users simply flip it over to see the entire globe The map can display the Eastern and Western Hemispheres on the sides or the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, which allows the equator to run around the edge Advertisement The secret behind this mind-bending puzzle lies in the way we make and read maps. Any time you want to represent a 3D object in 2D you have to 'project' the surface of that object onto the flat surface. For most of our maps, we use a type of mathematical transformation called the Mercator projection to represent the spherical Earth on a flat surface that's far more practical for navigation than a globe. The Mercator projection was invented by Flemish Cartographer Geradus Mercator in 1569 and became popular because of its usefulness for navigating at sea. The Mercator projection ensures that sailors could use lines of latitude and longitude to plot a straight course and maintains the shapes of landmasses, even though the size of countries is massively warped. Because our flat maps use this projection, straight lines like this route called 'great circles' appear to curve. This is the same reason that international flights appear to be taking long detours rather than flying in a 'straight' line to their destination. However, the route from India to Alaska isn't even the longest possible straight line sea journey out there. In 2012, a Reddit user going by Kepleronlyknows claimed to have found the longest possible straight line sea journey stretching almost 20,000 miles (32,089 km) from Pakistan to Russia. The route threads the needle between Madagascar and Mozambique before dipping beneath the southernmost point of South America In 2012, a Reddit user going by Kepleronlyknows claimed to have found the longest possible straight line sea journey stretching almost 20,000 miles (32,089 km) from Pakistan to Russia. The route threads the needle between Madagascar and Mozambique before dipping beneath the southernmost point of South America. Inspired by this post, computer scientists Rohan Chabukswar at the United Technologies Research Center in Ireland and Kushal Mukherjee at IBM Research in India developed an algorithm which could find the longest possible routes on earth. Not only did they prove that Kepleronlyknows was correct but also went a step further and found the longest possible straight line journey over land. So, if you're planning your next road trip you could drive the epic 6,984-mile (11,241km) route from Fujian, China to Portugal without ever turning the steering wheel. It was built over 4,400 years ago to honour the Egyptian pharaoh Sahura of the Fifth Dynasty. And now scientists have discovered secret rooms inside Sahura's Pyramid that could reveal its ancient secrets. A team from Julius-Maximilians-Universitat of Wurzburg explored the monument as part of a conservation and restoration project. Their investigation uncovered a number of storage rooms that have not been documented before. 'This groundbreaking project represents a significant milestone in the understanding of the Sahura pyramid and its historical significance,' the team, led by Dr Mohamed Ismail Khaled said. It was built over 4,400 years ago to honour the Egyptian pharaoh Sahura of the Fifth Dynasty. But scientists have now discovered secret rooms inside Sahura's Pyramid that could reveal its ancient secrets A team from Julius-Maximilians-Universitat of Wurzburg explored the monument as part of a conservation and restoration project. Their investigation uncovered a number of storage rooms that have not been documented before READ MORE: Five unanswered questions about Ancient Egypt's Boy King, Tutankhamun Pictured: Howard Carter and a colleague cleaning the coffin of Tutankhamun Advertisement Sahura's Pyramid was built in the late 26th to 25th century BC for Sahura (also known as Sahure), the second king of the Fifth Dynasty and the first king to be buried at Abusir. Sahura's reign was marked by peace and prosperity, according to Ancient Origins. 'Amongst other things, Sahure traded with foreign lands, developed a navy, and opened up mines,' it explained. The pyramid was first excavated in 1836 by John Perring, an engineer working under Colonel Howard Vyse, before being explored further by Egyptologist Ludwig Borchardt in 1907. Now, more than 100 years later, scientists have stepped inside the ancient pyramid once again. The team initially set out to stabilise the pyramid's substructure and prevent it from collapsing. Using 3D laser scanning, they conducted detailed surveys inside the pyramid. This allowed them to create comprehensive maps of both the extensive external areas and the narrow corridors and chambers within. It also uncovered a secret passage that led to eight previously undiscovered store rooms. Using 3D laser scanning, the team conducted detailed surveys inside the pyramid. This allowed them to create comprehensive maps of both the extensive external areas and the narrow corridors and chambers within. It also uncovered a secret passage that led to eight previously undiscovered store rooms Sahura's Pyramid was built in the late 26th to 25th century BC for Sahura, the second king of the Fifth Dynasty and the first king to be buried at Abusir The ceilings and floors of these rooms are 'badly damaged', and it remains unclear exactly what was stored there. 'Although the northern and southern parts of these magazines, especially the ceiling and the original floor, are badly damaged, remnants of the original walls and parts of the floor can still be seen,' the team said. Having disccovered the secret rooms, the team set out to restore them to their former glory. 'During restoration, a balance between preservation and presentation was pursued to ensure the structural integrity of the rooms while making them accessible for future study and potentially the public,' they said. The team hopes the findings will help to solve the mysteries that remain about Sahura's Pyramid, including how it was constructed and what was stored in the seceret rooms. 'The discovery and restoration of the storerooms is expected to revolutionize the view of historical development of pyramid structures and challenge existing paradigms in the field,' they concluded. Sahura's reign was marked by peace and prosperity, according to Ancient Origins. 'Amongst other things, Sahure traded with foreign lands, developed a navy, and opened up mines,' it explained The team hopes the findings will help to solve the mysteries that remain about Sahura's Pyramid, including how it was constructed and what was stored in the seceret rooms Biodegradable plastic carrier bags are more toxic than conventional plastic bags, a new study has found. Researchers analysed three types of bags a compostable bag made of vegetable starch, a recycled plastic bag and a conventional plastic bag. They exposed them to sunlight to make them break down, and then exposed them to fish cells. They also then composted them and tested the resulting compost for toxicity. A 'high level of toxicity' was produced by the biodegradable bags, harming the fish cells, according to the authors from the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Researchers found a high level of toxicity in compostable plastic bags, which increases with photodegradation (the alteration of the plastic material by ultraviolet light) READ MORE Plastic bags described as composable 'cause global warming' Prior research warns compostable bags emit methane as they degrade in landfill Advertisement Cinta Porte, lead author of the study, published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials, said: 'We were surprised that cells exposed to conventional plastic bags showed no trace of toxicity. 'However, we did detect it in biodegradable ones, which decreased cell viability. 'Our hypothesis is that manufacturers add chemical additives to make biodegradable bags that could be particularly toxic. 'In addition, recycled plastic bags also showed higher levels of toxicity than conventional ones, as plastic additives would also be added for reuse.' In the experiment, the aging process of the bags was simulated with ultraviolet rays (photodegradation). The small fragments of bags remaining after composting and the compost resulting from the bag breaking down was analysed. The study found that toxins 'which results in the accumulation of pollutants that can affect the environment and negatively impact the health of the population'. Researchers analysed three types of bags: a compostable plastic bag made of vegetable starch, a recycled plastic bag and a conventional plastic bag. They exposed them to sunlight to make them break down, and then exposed them to fish cells READ MORE Only 40% of plastic billed as 'compostable' actually fully breaks down, study finds Pictured, compostable plastic that was used to package the Guardian newspaper that did not fully disintegrate in a compost bin Advertisement Amparo Lopez Rubio, co-author, said: 'The toxicity observed may derive both from the additives used during processing and from the fragments of biodegradable plastics produced during composting.' 'It is necessary to thoroughly investigate the migration and ecotoxicity of these new materials and establish a good regulatory framework, based on scientific evidence, to ensure their safety before they reach the market. 'We need an open and transparent interaction with the companies that will allow us to advance in the development of materials that, in addition to being more sustainable, are safe.' The authors said the specific chemical compounds added to these compostable bags could not be identified in the study, as many additives are protected by patents. But they are likely to be plasticisers compounds added to the plastic to make it more flexible. The researchers tested four different types of compostable bags - made from polybutylene adipate terapthalate and starch, a single use water bottle made of PET (polyethylene terapthalate) a conventional plastic bag made of LDPE (low density polyethylene) and two garbage bags made of recycled polyethylene. Compostable bags tend to be advertised as 'eco-friendly' with slogans like 'save the planet' - but their green credentials may be overstated Tiantian Wang, first author of the study said: 'Although each manufacturer may add different additives to their products, we have observed that all biodegradable bags have similar levels of toxicity.' The researchers conclude: 'This work demonstrates the elevated toxicity of recycled plastics, compostable plastics, and semi-degraded compostable plastics resulting from partial disintegration, as compared to virgin conventional plastic extracts. 'These findings underscore the need for additional research efforts and the implementation of regulatory measures prior to the release of mature compost into the environment.' Last year, researchers in Manchester reported that compostable bags have nearly twice the global warming impact of traditional plastic, and four times that of paper. While compostable bags can only properly degrade under high temperatures in special processing plants, they're mostly discarded in general waste before being sent to landfill where they release methane, the experts said. YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 28, ARMENPRESS. President of the Cypriot House of Representatives Annita Demetriou has called on Council of Europe member states to support the Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh like they are resolutely supporting the people of Ukraine. Dear colleagues, as we speak, theres an unspeakable humanitarian crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh for already ten months, Demetriou said at the European Conference of Presidents of Parliament in Dublin. Thousands of people, malnourished, frightened and exhausted, are queued up for mass exodus to Armenia, to be saved from ethnic cleansing. What have we done to stop this humanitarian disaster, which is bringing memories of the traumatic past of the Armenian people? Obviously not enough, overall, we can say nothing. We must support the Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh just the way we resolutely support the people of Ukraine, she said. She added that countries must be resolute towards principles of international law and human rights, without double standards and unconditionally, regardless of who the aggressor is. In this case Azerbaijan, like Russia in the case of Ukraine, like Turkey in the case of Cyprus. The international community must continue to support the efforts to restore Ukraine. At the same time, we must direct our entire energy for a speedy end to the war in Ukraine. We must also end Azerbaijans aggression in Armenia and Turkeys unlawful and maximalist aspirations in Cyprus, and return to the negotiations table as soon as possible, Demetriou said. A daredevil traveller who shot to fame for the heartwarming way he reassures his mum during his world adventures now wants to send her the message from space. Jonathan Kubben, 34, photographs himself holding a giant placard that reads 'Mom, I'm fine' to let his mum Imelda Quinonez, in Mexico, know he is safe. We last covered Jonathan's travels in 2016. And he is still out there telling his Mom that he's 'fine'... and here we present some of his very latest images from around the world. Pictures show the Belgium-based influencer holding the sign while scaling buildings, swimming with sharks, and jumping out of planes. Revealing what could be the final chapter of his 'Mom, I'm fine' photo series, Jonathan reveals to MailOnline Travel the surprise he is planning for Imelda. 'I want to be the first person to send a message to their mum into space and put it on a satellite,' he says. 'We are negotiating with the European Commission to see if it's possible or not. The idea is that the satellite would be turning around the Earth multiple times a day so there would be several opportunities for her to see the message. I think it's going to be the last picture of "Mom, I'm fine". I don't think I can top that. What more can I do, send the message from Mars?' As he plans what could be his last 'Mom, I'm fine' stunt, Jonathan, who has 584,000 followers on his @jonathankubben Instagram page and whose videos have racked up a combined 100million views, looks back at some of the messages to his mum while travelling to some 80 countries. Scroll down to see his highlights. Jonathan took this picture to reassure his mum from the top of Ijen, an active volcano on the island of Java in Indonesia Jonathan said: 'My mum was doubtful when I first left to travel, but now she is so happy and super proud now that she's seen what it turned into.' The picture above was taken in Monaco The former consultant's world travels took him to Cenote Suytun, above, located outside the town of Valladolid in Mexico Mexican airline Volaris displayed Jonathan's 'Mom, I'm fine' message on one of its planes before a flight to the U.S Jonathan is pictured here at India's Taj Mahal reassuring his mum, who he reveals isn't privy to his travel plans. He says: 'She doesn't want to know beforehand. She finds out afterwards and, that way, she is not afraid' Imelda enjoys seeing Jonathan's success - he now has his own show on Belgian national television. She too has appeared on the show, which follows Jonathan's life. Here he is pictured in Machu Picchu, Peru This striking image shows Jonathan's 'Mom, I'm fine' message displayed in lights across Le Grand-Place in his home city - Brussels The influencer gave a Ted talk in Brussels about his 'Mom, I'm fine' project and his idea to travel the world for free Perhaps one of the more daring photos shows Jonathan swimming with sharks off the coast of Playa del Carmen in Mexico Jonathan shared his message while celebrating Holi, the Hindu festival of colours in Prayagraj, India 'My mum was nervous of me travelling for sure,' Jonathan says. 'Whether I was on top of the Atomium in Brussels dressed as an astronaut (pictured), or doing stunts on holiday, she would be afraid' Recalling some of his experiences in south America, Jonathan says he lived with a tribe in Amazonia and lived like a miner in Bolivia, where he is pictured climbing the Huayana Potosi mountain This picture shows a rare occasion where Jonathan had another person displaying his 'Mom, I'm fine' message. This image was taken in Marrakesh, Morocco Over the course of Jonathan's travels, his message of reassurance reached new heights, including this example of an aerial shot taken in Liege, Belgium Jonathan took his 'Mom, I'm fine' message to Los Angeles. Here it appeared on the side of a lorry outside the Memorial Coliseum, right Jonathan says he originally planned to return to his job as a consultant in communication when he quit to go travelling in 2016. Since then, his 'Mom, I'm fine' brand has reached millions of people and led to further business and projects. Above is an earlier photograph taken after he jumped out of a plane above Playa del Carmen, Mexico Here, Jonathan is pictured working to support Unicef. The influencer has launched a 'Mom, I'm fine' humanitarian project, building schools made of recycled plastic for children of disadvantaged backgrounds A pilot at British Airways has spoken of the disgust felt among flight crews at the airline over the behaviour of Mike Beaton. Beaton, a first officer, was sacked after he bragged to colleagues about snorting cocaine off a woman's bare breasts in South Africa before trying to fly a packed plane back to the UK. A BA captain, speaking anonymously, told MailOnline Travel: 'Talking to pilot colleagues, we feel hugely let down by this individual.' When asked how common it was for a pilot to be affected by alcohol in the cockpit, he replied: 'It's beyond rare. Unthinkable.' British Airways has told its staff to report any concerns they have about senior colleagues taking drugs after Beaton's wrongdoing, according to The Sun. First Officer Mike Beaton was sacked by British Airways after a night of debauchery in South Africa Beaton was reported to management at BA after he sent text messages to a stewardess bragging about how he had been 'very, very naughty' with two women and two men in Johannesburg. The father-of-one told how the group 'did shots, polished off a bottle of vodka', then how he 'snorted cocaine off a topless woman's t***' and then 's*****d for ages' before trying to fly a plane back to London. '[I] was so f****d I couldn't even lift my head until gone 2,' Beaton wrote. It is a remarkable fall from grace for Beaton, who lives in an idyllic 750,000 home in Devon with his Polish wife and their five-year-old daughter. The bragging text messages sent by Mr Beaton to a stewardess about his sordid evening in Johannesburg They run a luxury treehouse retreat business together called Happy Owls, which featured in The Times top 12 treehouse hotels this year. Beaton's mother served as an officer in the RAF and has sat as a magistrate in Peterborough since 2005. She lives with the disgraced pilot's stepfather, an RAF pilot who flew every member of the Royal Family in a career that saw him invested as a Member of the Royal Victorian Order. Instances of pilots being drunk before taking the controls are extremely rare, as our pilot source stated. One serious incident involving BA crew took place in 2000, when a Channel 4 Dispatches documentary caught a captain, Chris Salmon, and a first officer, James Sharples, drinking heavily in Barcelona before a flight to Gatwick. Salmon was alleged to have drunk seven bottles of beer and more than a bottle of wine the night before the flight, reported The Times, while Sharples, it was claimed, drunk 'at least eight pints of beer'. Salmon was heard saying 'I can't believe I've got to take an aircraft back'. After the expose, The Times notes, Salmon resigned and Sharples was sacked. British Airways told MailOnline after Beaton was fired: 'Safety is always our top priority. The matter was referred to the CAA and this individual no longer works for us.' Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star Lisa Barlow has revealed the fate of the $60,000 diamond ring she lost on a recent episode of the series. The entrepreneur, 48, lost the spectacular piece of jewellery in an airport bathroom after flying to Palm Springs on a girls trip with her castmates. Speaking to Daily Mail Australia, Barlow said that the precious bauble wasn't insured, leaving her 'devastated' both financially and emotionally from the loss. 'I did get a replacement, but it was so upsetting,' she shared. Once she realised the ring was missing, Lisa said that she completely undressed herself in the toilet stall to make sure that it hadn't slipped down her jeans. Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star Lisa Barlow (pictured) has revealed the fate of the $60,000 diamond ring she lost on a recent episode of the series 'I was screaming,' she said, admitting that the other women in the bathroom all chipped in to help her find the pricey treasure. 'They even took the toilet off the wall to make sure it didn't go in there,' she said. Speaking about the new season of RHOSLC, the Vida Tequila mogul said that the show is much less 'toxic' this time around thanks to the exit of original cast member Jen Shah, who is currently serving time in prison for fraud. 'I feel like that element gone, you just get to focus on the issues we probably would have had with her there, but they're just more magnified because there's not something huge overshadowing everything,' she explained. Speaking to Daily Mail Australia, Barlow said that the precious bauble wasn't insured, leaving her 'devastated' both financially and emotionally from the loss 'I did get a replacement, but it was so upsetting,' she shared Lisa also took a swipe at new cast member Monica Garcia, who is already ruffling feathers after admitting that her marriage broke down because she had an affair with her brother-in-law for 18 months. 'I think I should buy her a Louis Vuitton bag so she can not feel so bad that she doesn't have one,' sniped Lisa. 'Honestly, I feel like she's so upset based on her circumstances, and instead of being like, "Hey, I can elevate myself and my life", she wants to tear us down,' she continued. 'We just have different interests. So, you know, some people appreciate Van Gogh's and some people like Renoir's and, you know, I like both and she doesn't know what they are.' Lisa also took a swipe at new cast member Monica Garcia (right), offering to buy her a Louis Vuitton bag 'so she can not feel so bad that she doesn't have one' Lisa also admitted that her friend and co-star Angie Katsanevas (right) has 'come in hot' this season by starring up drama with the women As for the show's other newcomer, Angie Katsanevas, Lisa admitted that the fiery brunette has ruffled feathers on the cast with her outspoken antics. 'Like, you can see my face expressions at some points. I'm like, "Oh my gosh, you can't say that!" 'I like Angie a lot, but she definitely came in super hot,' she added. The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City's brand-new season is available to stream only on Hayu. Brand new episodes are released every Wednesday, the same day as the USA. They danced the night away on Saturday. And Zara McDermott was beaming Wednesday afternoon after Strictly Come Dancing partner Graziano Di Prima serenaded the reality TV star after a gruelling nine hour rehearsal. The former Made In Chelsea star, 26, donned a comfy workout ensemble which included a pair of black shorts and an oversized crew neck jumper. Graziano Di Prima, 29, played his guitar for Zara whilst she laughed away. Another Strictly dancer Vito Coppola was also leaving the rehearsal space at the same time, which prompted a moment of fun between the two men as they knelt down with a bouquet of flowers. Workout gear: The former Made In Chelsea star, 26, donned a comfy workout ensemble which included a pair of black shorts and an oversized crew neck jumper Earlier in the day Graziano Di Prima was seen giving dance partner Zara McDermott a sweet kiss on the cheek. The professional dancer wrapped his arm around the Love Island star as they said goodbye while his wife Giada Lini, 32, watched on. Zara previously said that her boyfriend Sam 'isn't nervous at all' about her taking part, despite the show's infamous 'curse.' She said: 'No not not at all, I think that everyone on the show that's got a partner is super supportive. And everyone's gonna be in the audience.' It comes after Zara's boyfriend Sam Thompson assured fans Zara won't become victim to the notorious Strictly Curse, after she was unfaithful to him four years ago. Last month, Sam reflected on Zara's cheating past which saw the reality star's affair while she was on The X Factor play out on Made In Chelsea . In 2020, the couple briefly split after the bombshell revelation Zara had cheated on the television personality a year before. They reunited months later after she issued a grovelling apology. Sam said on his Staying Relevant podcast with Pete Wicks: 'She was 22 so f****** young. You know when you look at them and you go, 'She ain't going to do that again?' I could see in her face. Musical: Zara McDermott was beaming Wednesday afternoon after Strictly Come Dancing partner Graziano Di Prima serenaded the reality TV star after a gruelling nine hour rehearsal Have a laugh: Another Strictly dancer Vito Coppola was also leaving the rehearsal space at the same time, which prompted a moment of fun between the two men as they knelt down with a bouquet of flowers 'You can just tell when someone has a beautiful heart and a beautiful soul and just f***** up.' Sam admitted he had been unfaithful to other girlfriends in the past, including Tiffany Watson but has always been loyal to his girlfriend Zara. He added: 'You'd be some w***** to have done it yourself and can't forgive.' At the time her affair with someone in the music industry during her stint on Celebrity X Factor came to light, Zara owned up to her mistakes. She said: 'A huge mistake I made a year ago has recently come to light and I want to face this head on. 'I dont condone being unfaithful and I made a huge mistake at a time in my life where I was hugely selfish and immature. 'I believe I have learnt so much from my mistake. I want to apologise to my Sam for everything I have put him through, for the pain, the embarrassment, the anger and the hurt. Zara looked nothing short of sensational as she took to the glitzy dance floor for the first time on Saturday. Hot stuff: Strictly's Zara looked nothing short of sensational as she took to the glitzy dance floor for the first time on Saturday (pictured with pro partner Graziano Di Prima) The reality star sent temperatures soaring in a sparkly white mini dress which featured racy cut outs and showcased her gorgeous figure in all it's glory. Her dress boasted a ruffle skirt and metallic applique for the sexy cha cha with pro partner Graziano. Zara was supported from the sidelines by boyfriend Sam, 31, and his pal and former TOWIE star Pete Wicks, 35, who both donned quirky shirts with her face. The judges disagreed over the performance which eventually scored a disappointing 19 points. Flying the flag: She was supported from the sidelines by boyfriend Sam Thompson, 31 (R) and his pal and former TOWIE star Pete Wicks, 35 (L) who both donned shirts with Zara's face Having fun: Graziano and his wife Giada Lini, 32, paid a visit to the couple's London home, with Sam even getting the dancer into $350 MSCHF rubber red boots Sharna Burgess has shocked fans with a heart-wrenching revelation about her past struggles with substance abuse as a teenager. The Aussie Dancing With The Stars judge gave listeners a glimpse into her former battle in a candid episode of her podcast Old-ish, which she co-hosts with her American fiance, Brian Austin Green. The professional dancer, 38, confessed that she began experimenting with the highly addictive amphetamine meth as early as 15. 'We were sitting at the backyard of someone's house, and a crack pipe was being passed around with meth in it, and we were all taking hits of it,' the mother-of-one recalled. Sharna was 17 years at the time, and said she was 'partying pretty much three to four days a week'. Sharna Burgess, 38, (pictured) has shocked fans with a heart-wrenching revelation about her past struggles with substance abuse as a teenager 'Here I was, 17 years old, high awake for three days, watching 20-somethings and maybe even young 30-somethings passing around this crack pipe just waiting to get a little bit more out of it,' she recalled. Things became even worse when the champion ballroom dancer suffered a devastating knee injury. Sharna eventually realised she had to change her drug-taking habits. The Dancing With The Stars judge gave listeners a glimpse into her battles with substance abuse in a candid episode of her podcast Old-ish , which she co-hosts with her fiance, Brian Austin Green. Both pictured She recalled being 'high awake for three days, watching 20-somethings and maybe even young 30-somethings passing around this crack pipe just waiting to get a little bit more out of it,' she reflected. Recognising her drift from her former glory as a national dancing jewel, Burgess felt a sharp sting of realisation: 'This was not what I was meant for.' Sharna had struggled with substance abuse for many years. 'We were sitting at the backyard of someone's house, and a crack pipe was being passed around with meth in it, and we were all taking hits of it,' she shared, recounting a particular memory The dance dynamo detailed other harrowing instances, including a rave where she overdosed, leading to frothing at the mouth. She noted that 'you sober up very quickly when you're in fear of your life like that.' 'I was very, very uncomfortable in my reality, so I would escape to this place of euphoria,' she shared. 'And eventually, the things I would take to get to that place of euphoria weren't strong enough or enough, and I do more and have more and more often. And that was the slippery slope for me.' 'I was very, very uncomfortable in my reality, so I would escape to this place of euphoria,' she shared Yet, her painful journey wasn't a straight path to recovery. Burgess highlighted that unresolved issues at home and a strained relationship with her father often pulled her back into the vortex of addiction. Dance, she says, was her saving grace. It provided the strength she needed to rewrite her narrative. It comes after the mother-of-one announced her engagement to her longtime partner Brian Austin Green. The pair made it official at Green's surprise birthday bash in July but kept it under wraps until just last week. For confidential 24-hour support in Australia call Lifeline on 13 11 14. New DC Studios president James Gunn has already made some sweeping changes to the DC movie landscape, but it seems at least three existing characters will return. Gunn, 57, made headlines when he essentially 'fired' Henry Cavill as Superman and revealed a third Wonder Woman project won't be moving forward either. The first project to move ahead is the animated series Creature Commandos, debuting on Max next year, followed by Superman: Legacy, with David Corenswet as Superman and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, hitting theaters in July 2025. Gunn took to social media on Wednesday to confirm three existing DCEU characters will continue in his new DC Universe canon. He confirmed on Threads that, 'Xolo Mariduena will continue playing Blue Beetle in the DCU, as Viola Davis will Amanda Waller, and John Cena will Peacemaker.' James says: New DC Studios president James Gunn has already made some sweeping changes to the DC movie landscape, but it seems at least three existing characters will return DC moves: Gunn, 57, made headlines when he essentially 'fired' Henry Cavill as Superman and revealed a third Wonder Woman project won't be moving forward either Returning: Gunn took to social media on Wednesday to confirm three existing DCEU characters will continue in his new DC Universe canon Beetle returns: He confirmed on Threads that, 'Xolo Mariduena will continue playing Blue Beetle in the DCU, as Viola Davis will Amanda Waller, and John Cena will Peacemaker' The DCU canon talk started when a fan on Threads (@flip_the_usb_twice) asked if, 'returning actors are playing new versions of the same characters.' The fan also asked if this was similar to J.K. Simmons returning as J. Jonah Jameson in the new Spider-Man movies, after playing the character in the first Spider-Man trilogy from Sony that was not part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Gunn responded on Threads, 'Nothing is canon until Creature Commandos next year - a sort of aperitif to the DCU - & then a deeper dive into the universe with Superman: Legacy after that.' He added, 'Its a very human drive to want to understand everything all the time, but I think its okay to be confused on whats happening in the DCU since no one has seen anything from the DCU yet..' He also confirmed, 'And, yes, some actors will be playing characters theyve played in other stories & some plot points might be consistent with plot points from the dozens of films, shows & animated projects that have come from DC in the past. But nothing is canon until CC and Legacy.' The news about Davis returning as Waller is hardly surprising, given that she is returning to voice the character in the animated Creature Commandos series. There is also a live-action series dubbed simply Waller that is in development on Max, with Davis set to star. Creature Commandos, Waller and the first movie DC Universe movie project Superman: Legacy will be part of what Gunn and his DC Studios co-head Peter Safran have dubbed Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters. Viola returns: The news about Davis returning as Waller is hardly surprising, given that she is returning to voice the character in the animated Creature Commandos series James responds: Gunn responded on Threads, 'Nothing is canon until Creature Commandos next year - a sort of aperitif to the DCU - & then a deeper dive into the universe with Superman: Legacy after that' Peacemaker's return: The return is Cena isn't surprising either, since Gunn wrote and directed The Suicide Squad featuring Cena as The Peacemaker and created the Max spin-off series of the same name The return is Cena isn't surprising either, since Gunn wrote and directed The Suicide Squad featuring Cena as The Peacemaker and created the Max spin-off series of the same name. As for Mariduena's Blue Beetle, Gunn teased his continued DCU involvement in an Instagram post at the Blue Beetle premiere. 'At the #BlueBeetle screening with my partner Peter Safran! I cant wait for audiences to meet Jaime Reyes, who will be an amazing part of the DCU going forward!' Gunn said. It's unclear when Superman: Legacy will go into production with the actors strike still ongoing, as the writers strike nears a conclusion. Silverchair's Ben Gillies and Chris Joannou have finally revealed exactly how the iconic rock band ended. Writing about Silverchair's demise in their newly-released joint memoir, the pair claimed that frontman Daniel Johns put them on an 'emotional rollercoaster' by breaking up the band multiple times - only to then change his mind. However, things finally came to an end then the trio performed at the Groovin' The Moo music festival in 2010. Gillies said that he received a 'confusing call' from Johns shortly after the performance, saying the two words, 'It's inevitable'. While Johns never explicitly said that the band was breaking up, Gillies and Joannou were later informed by their manager that it was over and that a press release announcing their 'indefinite hiatus' would be going out to the media. Silverchair's Ben Gillies and Chris Joannou have revealed what frontman Daniel Johns (pictured) told them before breaking up the band Gillies said that he received a 'confusing call' from Johns in 2010, saying the two words, 'It's inevitable', before the band officially split 'We wanted to scream. It shouldnt have ended like that,' the pair write in their memoir, according to news.com.au. 'Even if the three of us werent aligned on the way to go forward together, we deserved to go out in a way that celebrated our achievements as a band,' they continued. 'If it was really over, we deserved more than a press release that left everything floating in the ether, even if that was the agreed approach. At the very least, we owed it to ourselves to have a face-to-face adult conversation and make the decision together.' It comes after the bassist and drummer, both 43, opened up about their estranged bandmate, 44, after he refused to let them use his songs in their ABC documentary about the band. Joannou, 43, (left) and Gillies, 43, (right) broke their silence on their relationship with former Silverchair frontman Johns, 44, in an interview this week Speaking on WSFM's The Jonesy and Amanda Show, the musicians said they had 'drifted apart' from Daniel since Silverchair disbanded in 2011. Things became awkward when hosts Brendan 'Jonesy' Jones and Amanda Keller pressed them on whether they were still in communication with their estranged bandmate. 'We've all drifted into different directions over the years and done different projects,' Ben carefully told the radio hosts. He continued: 'And it's no disrespect to any individual in the way things rolled out, it's just what happened.' The bassist and drummer opened up about their estranged bandmate (pictured) after he refused to let them use his songs in their ABC documentary about the band Speaking on WSFM's The Jonesy and Amanda Show, the musicians said they had 'drifted apart' from Daniel since Silverchair disbanded in 2011 When hosts Brendan 'Jonesy' Jones and Amanda Keller pressed them on whether they were still in communication with their estranged bandmate, they said no The duo also admitted Daniel was 'not involved' in their memoir Love & Pain which they co-wrote to document the history of Silverchair. Their joint radio interview came just hours after Daniel broke his silence on ABC's decision to pull part one of its Australian Story documentary A Silver Lining. The two-part series, which premiered on September 18, tells the story Silverchair's meteoric rise to fame with interviews from Ben and Chris. Daniel, who has been estranged from Ben and Chris since the band split in 2011, did not participate in the documentary. Fans were surprised last Tuesday when Australian Story announced on social media that ABC had removed part one of A Silver Lining from its streaming platform iView. The duo also admitted Daniel was 'not involved' in their memoir Love & Pain which they co-wrote to document the history of Silverchair Their joint radio interview came just hours after Daniel broke his silence on ABC's decision to pull part one of its Australian Story documentary A Silver Lining - which he did not participate in At the time, The Daily Telegraph reported that Daniel and his brother Heath (who runs the label BMG Music Australia), had not given ABC the rights to publish Silverchair's music on iView. Daniel finally set the record straight on Sunday, posting a lengthy essay to Instagram explaining why he chose not to give ABC permission to republish his songs. 'Australian Story reached out to me via my team "as a courtesy" on August 11 to let me know that they were doing a story on Ben and Chris. I was and remain incredibly supportive of them telling their story,' he said. Daniel went on to say he had nothing to do with Ben and Chris' memoir, and he felt uncomfortable 'promoting' the book without knowing what they wrote about him. Ross Kemp admitted 'the hardest job you will ever do is being a parent' as he opened up about balancing family life and his career in his new book. The actor-turned-documentary maker, 59, married lawyer Renee O'Brien in 2012 and has welcomed three children son Leo, eight, and twin daughters, six. He is also father to first son Oliver from a previous relationship. In his new book, Take Nothing For Granted: Tales From An Unexpected Life opened up about his serious job and how humour and good luck has helped him get back to his loved ones. Ross said: 'I don't expect sympathy. You can't come back and moan about the conditions in a prison when she (Renee) has been doing two jobs one being a mum and the other being a lawyer. 'I don't expect sympathy': Ross Kemp admitted 'the hardest job you will ever do is being a parent' as he opened up about balancing family life and his career in his new book Loved ones: The actor-turned-documentary maker, 59, married lawyer Renee O'Brien in 2012 and has welcomed three children son Leo, eight, and twin daughters, six. He is also father to first son Oliver from a previous relationship 'If I wanted sympathy and looked for it I don't think I would get very much so there is no point in asking. Also, when you get critiqued for bringing the wrong socks by your twin daughters, it's like, OK . . . 'I say it in the book, you think my job is hard but the hardest job you will ever do is being a parent. There is no road map nothing is ever perfectly right. You can read all the books in the world but your child will not be the one that is in that book.' To date Ross has made more than 120 documentaries and he shows no sign of stopping. Recently he has been filming a Channel 5 series uncovering life inside some of South America's toughest prisons, as well as working on a Sky History show about organised crime. Ross has even added diving to his impressive career repertoire to make Sky History series Deep Sea Treasure Hunter. It comes after Ross turned down a trip to see the Titanic on an OceanGate submersible after his TV firm decided the vessel was 'unsafe on every level'. He was keen to take part in the mission last year for a documentary marking the 110th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic. Family: In his new book, Take Nothing For Granted: Tales From An Unexpected Life opened up about his serious job and how humour and good luck has helped him get back to his loved ones Ross said: 'I don't expect sympathy. You can't come back and moan about the conditions in a prison when she (Renee) has been doing two jobs one being a mum and the other being a lawyer' After an expert production company carried out checks, they decided seeing the shipwreck on the seafloor of the North Atlantic would be too risky. Kemp's agent, Professor Jonathan Shalit, said they pulled out of using the Titan submersible because it was unsafe 'on every level'. He said he was relieved Kemp didn't board Titan and the company didn't suggest it was safe for him to go. Professor Shalit said: 'I am relieved that Ross did not participate but I am obviously reassured by the professionalism of those companies we were working with that they didn't suggest that he go on the submarine. 'The production company, who are well known and renowned, looked into the sub and decided it was unsafe on every level and weren't prepared to use it. 'We were told 'it is unsafe, we are not going' - that was a year ago. 'It is deeply sad for the families who have suffered such a terrible loss. 'The lesson to be learnt is do your checks thoroughly. By good fortune for us the checks had been done thoroughly.' The US Coast Guard offered its 'deepest condolences' to the families of the five men after the tail cone of the submersible was found around 1,600ft from the bow of the Titanic wreckage off the coast of Newfoundland. Maria Shriver beamed when she was spotted stepping out in Los Angeles with her son Christopher Schwarzenegger on Wednesday. Christopher, who recently hit the headlines for his jaw-dropping transformation into a musclebound hunk, was celebrating his 26th birthday that day. His proud mother was the picture of cheer as she sauntered along beside him, draping her own lithe frame in a set of muted workout gear. Shading her face with an elegant visor, the 67-year-old niece of John F. Kennedy accentuated her features with naturalistic makeup. She shares four children with her ex-husband Arnold Schwarzenegger - Christopher as well as Katherine, 33, Christina, 32, and Patrick, 30. Legging it: Maria Shriver beamed when she was spotted stepping out in Los Angeles with her son Christopher Schwarzenegger on Wednesday When spotted on his birthday this week, Christopher showed off his toned arms in a burnt-orange t-shirt, sporting a dashing mullet and a rugged touch of scruff. The mother-son outing comes after Arnold lifted the curtain back on the cozy post-divorce rapport he shares with his ex-wife. During a sit-down with People, the 76-year-old actor revealed that he still held his former spouse, to whom he was married to 1986 until 2021, in high regard, despite their split. The star of the Terminator franchise, who was recently spotted with his current girlfriend, Heather Milligan, stated that his 'chapter with Maria will continue on forever' and that there was 'no reason for me to feel anything other than love for her.' Schwarzenegger began by admitting that his past actions led to the end of his relationship with the 67-year-old journalist, with whom he shares sons Patrick, 30, and Christopher, 26, as well as daughters Katherine, 33, and Christina, 31. He stated: 'We never left the [first] chapter, because remember, it's not like we had a feud. We didn't have a fight. It's just my f*** up, right?' The former pair separated in 2011 after it was revealed that the Predator star had fathered a son named Joseph, 25, with his family's former housekeeper, Mildred Baena. The actor also recalled that he, as well as his former wife, decided to focus on the well-being of their children following their separation. On the move: Christopher, who recently hit the headlines for his jaw-dropping transformation into a musclebound hunk , was celebrating his 26th birthday that day Looking fab: His proud mother was the picture of cheer as she sauntered along beside him, draping her own lithe frame in a set of muted workout gear 'She said, "Okay, this is what it is," and then she decided to make a split, so it was her decision. But the fact is, we always made it very clear that the kids should not suffer because of that,' he recalled. Schwarzenegger went on to speak about his current relationship with Shriver and stated: 'Everything is kind of just as if we're together but we have separate lives.' He added that his former wife 'has her things, her relationship, I have mine, but we always communicate about the kids, about the holidays.' The former Governor of California has since moved on with Milligan, whom he initially met in 2012. The pair was introduced after Schwarzenegger underwent shoulder surgery and was referred to his girlfriend, who works as a physical therapist, by his surgeon. The performer recalled: 'After my therapy was finished, after I was finished with the movie, I called her back and took her out for lunch to say thank you. And then one thing led to the next.' Speaking his mind: Arnold stated that his 'chapter with Maria will continue on forever and that there was 'no reason for me to feel anything other than love for her'; they are seen in 1986 Separation: The former pair separated in 2011 after it was revealed that the Predator star had fathered a son named Joseph, 25, with his family's former housekeeper, Mildred Baena; they are seen in 2003 Staying in touch: He added that his former wife 'has her things, her relationship, I have mine, but we always communicate about the kids, about the holidays'; she is seen with her son Patrick, daughter Katherine and son-in-law Chris Pratt in March Working it out: Schwarzenegger went on to speak about his current relationship with Shriver and stated that 'everything is kind of just as if we're together but we have separate lives' The happy couple initially began seeing each other in 2013, although they did not make their red carpet debut for two more years. Schwarzenegger made no secret of his affection for his girlfriend, with whom he recently attended Oktoberfest in Munich. 'We have so many things in common. Our relationship is fantastic. I think the world of her,' he stated. The actor added: 'I love that she's into working. She's clearly independent. She just is driven as hell.' Chelsea Handler dropped in on Instagram this week to share what fans thought was a photo with a new love interest. The 48-year-old New Jersey native who recently was stung by a wasp posted a photo kissing an unknown man's cheek to the app's Stories feature, prompting followers to believe she was in a new romantic relationship. The unknown man wrapped his arms around the former Chelsea Lately talk show host as he smiled at the camera. Handler, who ended her romance with Jo Koy in July 2022, wrote across the image, 'This is my baby.' Showing her famously playful personality, she added, 'He is full of love and positivity and his body is my wonderland.' But the star was forced to clarify in a follow-up Instagram video: 'I did not announce a new boyfriend.' Confusion: Chelsea Handler dropped in on Instagram this week to share what fans thought was a photo with a new love interest she later clarified the man was a bartender on her vacation The funny woman reemerged on the photo-sharing app on Wednesday evening to make her relationship status clear. Filming herself in bed, cloaked in a luxurious white robe with her hair pulled into a topknot, she set the record straight. 'My vacation is over, you guys, and now my publicists are calling me. They just texted me with a Google thing of me, saying "Chelsea Handler announces new boyfriend on Instagram." 'I did not announce a new boyfriend on Instagram. That man is the bartender right next door to my house in Mallorca and that's why he's my baby, okay?' She continued, 'Baby doesn't mean boyfriend. Baby means he is my baby because he made me so many drinks.' Chelsea seemed simultaneously amused and annoyed as she added, 'I can't believe I have to clarify things like this so I don't get cousins from my texts saying, "Is this for real? Do you have a new boyfriend?"' In a second, brief video she corrected her Freudian slip, saying, 'Obviously I meant "texts from my cousins." Sorry, I took an edible.' It comes more than one year after Chelsea and friend-turned-boyfriend Jo, 52, ended their relationship. Former flame: The confusing post comes over a year after she split from Jo Koy; pictured in 2021 Fun: The comedian recently reflected on her Spanish vacation, calling part of the trip 'legendary' Last December Chelsea revealed that things were still tense between her and Jo in an interview with Brooke Shields. On the podcast Now What?, she admitted that she and the standup comic hadn't spoken in 'a while' following their breakup. She noted that the two were no longer friends, and that she didn't think they ever could be until her ex takes 'accountability' for behavior that contributed to their split. 'I dont think we can have a friendship until theres some accountability and some responsibility taken,' she said. Handler, who dated Koy for 11 months before their breakup, said their relationship had begun to fall apart over time, seemingly pointing the finger at him. 'There was just some behaviors that we couldnt agree on,' she shared. 'And it felt to me like I would have to abandon myself, which maybe I would have been OK to do if I were 20 or 25, but I wasn't willing to do that.' 'I was like, "I'm not going to change the way that I behave in order to make you feel more comfortable. Im not doing that,"' she explained. She recalled, 'Walking away from him was one of the most difficult things Ive ever had to do.' Mallorca: The Life Will Be The Death Of Me author recently shared outtakes from her holiday in Spain Earlier this week the star gushed about her holiday on the water. 'I am so grateful to have so many friends who come to my place and love Mallorca the way I have grown to love it,' she posted. Handler added in an Instagram caption, 'The food, the magic, the sangria. You have all brought such joyfulness to my life, and now its time to get back to worky work!! 'I will see you all in nyc this week for 2 shows at the Beacon and 2 shows in DC, Durham, and then 2 shows at the Pantages in LA! 'Ive never played the Pantages before and i can not wait to see you all on October 12th and 13th. I had a lot of adventures this summer and one of them was being filmed for this pornographic slow mo videos. Ive also been kissing every man in the port on the lips because Im single and I love to flirt!' YEREVAN, 28 SEPTEMBER, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 28 September, USD exchange rate up by 2.29 drams to 390.88 drams. EUR exchange rate up by 1.95 drams to 411.99 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate stood at 4.03 drams. GBP exchange rate up by 5.12 drams to 476.83 drams. The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals. Gold price down by 107.80 drams to 23717.85 drams. Silver price down by 1.14 drams to 286.40 drams. Amal Clooney put on a fashion-forward display during her visit to the United Nations Headquarters in New York City on Tuesday. The 45-year-old civil rights attorney who spoke at the UN General Assembly last week layered an ivory trench coat over a sleeveless green dress. The famed activist, who is married to George Clooney, was bright and cheery as she met with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Ambassador Nadia Murad. She looked typically beautiful with her long and voluminous light brown locks styled in an undefined side part and loose spiral curls. Her visage was tastefully made up with warm pink tones applied to her cheeks and her pout. Chic: Amal Clooney put on a fashion-forward display during her visit to the United Nations Headquarters in New York City on Tuesday Bright look: The 45-year-old attorney donned a sleeveless green dress Amal's hands were elegantly manicured with a glossy milky-toned hue painted on her short, square-shaped nails. She wore understated earrings and a thin watch around her dainty left wrist. The yearly week-long UN gathering brings together world leaders to meet with the General Assembly about pressing matters. The annual event is closed to the public, but are available for live streaming on the United Nations' YouTube channel. While Amal worked during the final day of the assembly, her husband, 62, was spotted out and about elsewhere in the Big Apple. The silver fox looked handsome in a black polo shirt and light wash jeans. The father-of-two who shares 6-year-old twins Ella and Alexander with his wife added a pair of sunglasses to his casual look. He was all smiles as he showed off a closely-groomed white beard and a neat haircut. Meaningful work: The famed activist, who is married to George Clooney, was bright and cheery as she met with UN Ambassador Nadia Murad Striking: She looked typically beautiful with her long and voluminous light brown locks styled in an undefined side part and loose spiral curls Last week news broke that the couple is selling their lavish Lake Como, Italy home. The actor has reportedly listed the villa with a Milan agency, according to Italian magazine Oggi. Past reports falsely claimed the Hollywood icon was selling the home, but real estate agent Yasemin Baysal assured the publication that 'this time it's true,' People reported. The price of the lakeside property is estimated to be as high as $100 million. Clooney is said to have purchased the home named Villa Oleandra from the Heinz family in 2002, via The Washington Post. It was also reported that the filmmaker's presence on Lake Como set off a real estate boom, prompting prices of properties in the area to double. The Wall Street Journal reported that Clooney went on to acquire a nearby home, making it 'one of the largest private homes in the area.' Lake Como has sentimental value to the Hollywood heartthrob as he and Amal met there in 2013 when she came over for a dinner party with mutual friends. On the go: While Amal worked during the final day of the assembly, her husband, 62, was spotted out and about elsewhere in the Big Apple Looking great: The silver fox looked handsome in a black polo shirt and light wash jeans In a September 2017 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the actor recalled, 'I thought she was beautiful, and I thought she was funny and obviously smart.' And last month the couple was back in Italy as they traveled to Venice for the famous film festival. Clooney was there to support the area two years ago when it was battered by heavy rain and landslides during the summer season. In addition to the Lake Como house, the Clooneys have places in France, the United Kingdom, and Los Angeles. Kim Kardashian was seen on the second episode of FX's American Horror Story: Delicate Tuesday, playing the role of publicist Siobhan Corbyn. The 42-year-old reality star was previously seen in last week's episode, introducing her character as the publicity rep for actress Anna Victoria Alcott, played by Emma Roberts. The episode opened as Alcott and her husband Dex (Matt Czuchry) were seen speaking with investigators, who told her she was mistaken about her idea that an intruder had broken into their apartment. Detectives told her it was likely a reaction to her medication. Corbyn was at the head of the pack as she welcomed Alcott into a packed office. She told her that she had received a Gotham Award nomination for her work in the independent film The Auteur, and that she was a shoo-in to be nominated for an Oscar. The latest: Kim Kardashian, 42, was seen on the second episode of FX's American Horror Story: Delicate Tuesday, playing the role of publicist Siobhan Corbyn The reality star plays the publicity rep for actress Anna Victoria Alcott, played by Emma Roberts Later, in a one-on-one meeting in Corbyn's office, Corbyn dressed down Alcott about her behavior amid the award season grind. 'OK so what happened to you the other night was f***ed - but I need you to get it together,' Corbyn told Alcott. 'Do you know how hard my staff has worked for you? How many hours we've spent campaigning for this nomination? 'How many b***jobs were collectively given for you to even be considered? I mean, Derek's jaw may never recover.' Corbyn continued to chastise Alcott about her lack of animation in the public eye. 'So let me know if there's no joy in this job for you I can help you fill out an application to work at Costco,' she said to her. She cited Jamie Lee Curtis' recent Oscar push as an inspiration to Alcott to push hard for an Oscar, asking Alcott if she thinks Curtis 'enjoyed getting into all those inane conversations about being a nepo baby' on the red carpet earlier this year. Corbyn then gave Alcott vials of a substance she referred to as B-12. Dex asked Anna to take a pregnancy test, and winds up showing as pregnant, as her doctor advised her to avoid stress. In a one-on-one meeting in Corbyn's office, Corbyn dressed down Alcott about her behavior amid the award season grind Corbyn told Alcott, 'Do you know how hard my staff has worked for you? How many hours we've spent campaigning for this nomination?' The PR expert cited Jamie Lee Curtis' recent Oscar push as an inspiration to Alcott to push hard for an Oscar The reality star has shown off her acting chops in the latest offering from Ryan Murphy Kardashian appeared to share solid professional chemistry with Roberts in the episode Corbyn purchased Alcott a dress, which she wore to the Gotham Awards In an allusion to Kim's wearing of Marilyn Monroe's dress to the Met Gala last year, she advised Alcott not to rip it They were seen dancing in front of a mirror to the Madonna song Sooner or Later, which caused the mirror to shatter into pieces Corbyn purchased Alcott a dress - the one earmarked for Madonna to wear to the 1991 Oscars in the storyline - which Alcott wore to the Gotham Awards. In an allusion to Kim's wearing of Marilyn Monroe's dress to the Met Gala last year, she advised Alcott, 'Do not rip it.' They were seen dancing in front of a mirror to the Madonna song Sooner or Later, which caused the mirror to shatter into pieces. Corbyn was the focal point during a dinner table scene at the Gotham Awards, as she chided a director who praised Alcott's looks. 'The real question is, how do you keep trivializing the work she does by focusing only on her looks? She literally saved your film,' Corbyn told the director, who replied, 'And that is why all of Hollywood is utterly terrified of this woman.' Alcott's character was seen striking a prying fan in the restroom, causing the fan to strike her head on a sink and fall unconscious. As she emerged to accept an award, she began seeing the fan at a table and other demonic presences in the crowd, causing her to upchuck a black liquid. Alcott was then seen being administered a sedative via needle, transitioning to a scene in which she was sleeping in a bed with Corbyn, who was singing Rock-a-bye Baby to her. Corbyn reassured Alcott, 'You're safe, sweetheart; it's gonna be okay ... you were dehydrated and exhausted.' Kim generated buzz and controversy at the Met Gala last year when she wore Marilyn Monroe's dress to the event Kim wore the famed gown, which Monroe famously sang 'Happy Birthday' to President John F. Kennedy to in May of 1962 The memorable outing did not come without controversy, as some fans claimed Kim had damaged the priceless garment by wearing it to the event Kim has shown off her performance skills playing the role of the ruthless PR specialist Corbyn was the focal point during a dinner table scene at the Gotham Awards, as she chided a director who praised Alcott's looks Corbyn kept a watchful eye over her client amid Alcott's physical and mental struggles She continued: 'The paramedics did tests, and everything looks great. You just really need to rest and drink water.' Asked about what was happened in the bathroom, Corbyn told Alcott, 'The paramedics said you must have been hallucinating. It can happen, with all the stress you're under.' As Alcott spoke about blowing her Oscar chances with the public meltdown, Corbyn demonstrated her PR skills in advising Alcott about how to navigate the situation. 'The news cycle has a seven-second memory. There's no such thing as bad press ... we are going to pull a "Wilde" card - as in Olivia Wilde,' Corbyn said, in reference to the controversies the actress-filmmaker encountered while promoting last year's Don't Worry Darling. She continued: 'Don't mention what happened - and wait till everyone forgets, slash low-key gaslight the people that do ask and make them think that they're the problem because, you know, sexism. Look, I'm giving you license to chill - take it. ' Alcott was seen staying at a secured residence in the Hamptons amid the trying times with help from Talia (Juliana Canfield) and a bodyguard named Kamal (Maaz Ali). Corbyn sang Rock-a-bye Baby to Alcott amid her physical and mental struggles As Alcott spoke about blowing her Oscar chances with the public meltdown, Corbyn demonstrated her PR skills in advising Alcott about how to navigate the situation Corbyn said: 'There's no such thing as bad press ... we are going to pull a "Wilde" card - as in Olivia Wilde' Alcott later went for an ultrasound administered by nurse Ivy, played by Cara Delevingne Alcott later went for an ultrasound administered by nurse Ivy, played by Cara Delevingne. She was later informed that she had suffered a miscarriage; and that there was nobody by the name of nurse Ivy at the facility. The pop references regarding the dress resonated with some viewers who took to social media as the episode aired Wednesday. 'Kim Kardashian with the ripped dress jokes!!! Adorbs!! #AHSDelicate,' one user tweeted, while another asked, 'Who else is seeing a Kim Kardashian/Marilyn Monroe dress effect in this scene?' Some users had acclaim for Kim's work on the episode, and the dialogue for her pop-savvy character. 'So Kim Kardashian is basically playing herself in the new American Horror Story,' one user said. Another added, 'Im only 20 mins into the new #AmericanHorrorStory ep, but Kim Kardashian already told Emma Roberts her face looks like a cats a**hole, cited Jamie Lee Curtis and Catherine Zeta-Jones awards campaigns, and recreated Madonnas Sooner or Later Oscar performance.' The pop references regarding the dress resonated with some viewers who took to social media as the episode aired Wednesday Some users had acclaim for Kim's work on the episode, and the dialogue for her pop-savvy character One user said Kim's presence on the scripted series put them off to watching the episode Others proclaimed that the reality TV queen was 'doing a great job' and 'nailed it in' her performance on the episode. Another said her presence on a scripted show had the opposite effect. The user said: '*Turns on American Horror Story* Sees Kim Kardashian*Turns off American Horror Story.*' The latest season of the Ryan Murphy is based off the Danielle Valentine novel Delicate Condition, focusing on an actress who might be expecting the spawn of Satan. American Horror Story: Delicate can be seen on FX on Wednesdays; and on Hulu. Paris Jackson got dolled up to attend YSL's Beauty Party MYSLF during Paris Fashion Week on Wednesday. The 25-year-old daughter of the late Michael Jackson was clad in a brown, long-sleeved turtleneck dress from Joah Brown. She layered a camel-colored leather jacket over the midi-length frock and added cream-colored peep toe heels. The songstress carried a light-colored Celine purse with a chunky gold chain for the high-profile occasion. Her long, blonde-highlighted tresses were arranged in a slicked back style that she tucked behind her ears. Glamorous: Paris Jackson got dolled up to attend YSL's Beauty Party MYSLF during Paris Fashion Week on Wednesday Outfit: The 25-year-old daughter of the late Michael Jackson was clad in a brown, long-sleeved turtleneck dress Paris took to Instagram during the day to share a behind-the-scenes snippet during her process of getting ready. She was primped by a makeup artist who lined her blue eyes in heavy brown pencil and hairstylist Miles Jeffries, who took care of her hair. She wore dangling earrings to the swanky event and rocked two hoop rings on either side of her nose. Jackson stacked gold jewelry on one of her tattooed hands, showing off various eye-catching rings. Also in attendance at the glitzy event was Austin Butler, who cut a suave figure in an all-black suit as he struck a pose for the cameras. The star was active on the fashion circuit on Tuesday as well, sitting front row at the Etam Womenswear Spring/Summer 2024 show. She bared her long legs in a brown and burgundy houndstooth patterned mini skirt. The fashionista paired it with a loose-fitting, cream-toned blouse that she left partially unbuttoned. Finally, the ensemble was tied together with a pair of brown, slouchy, suede to-the-knee boots. Jacket: She layered a camel-colored leather jacket over the midi-length frock and added cream-colored peep toe heels Accessory: The songstress carried a light-colored Celine purse with a chunky gold chain for the high-profile occasion Online presence: Paris dropped in on Instagram to share a BTS clip as she got ready for the fashion event Dapper: Also in attendance at the glitzy event was Austin Butler, who cut a suave figure in an all-black suit Suave: He looked smart in a black pinstripe waistcoat, which he teamed with smart trousers and a matching blazer Poser: He struck a series of poses as he was snapped by photographers Style: Influencer Rahi Chadda oozed sophistication at the star-studded event Her fashion week fun comes after earlier this month she filed a restraining order against an alleged stalker who scaled her home's fence and peered through her windows. According to Paris, who says she's now scared to be alone at home, the person is the same man who began sending her unwanted messages in December 2019. The latest alleged home invasion took place on August 23, when the intruder purportedly made it to her backyard before he was accosted. Paris was not home at the time, but a friend of hers who was staying on the property witnessed the trespass, TMZ reported. Laura Vandervoort announced she is engaged to Adam Coates on Wednesday. The 39-year-old actress took to Instagram to share the exciting news as she posted a series of photos of her now-fiance proposing to her. When Coates popped the question, the couple appeared to be watching the sunset from a downtown rooftop. After she said yes and he put the ring on her finger, she leaped into his arms in excitement. In a lengthy caption, the Smallville star who was previously set to marry Oliver Trevena in 2014 but called off their engagement after one year gushed about how they got engaged while celebrating her birthday last week. Engaged! Smallville star Laura Vandervoort revealed Wednesday that she's now engaged; seen in 2019 Soon-to-be husband! Laura shared the exciting news as she posted a series of photos of her now-fiance Adam Coates proposing to her 'Well... we have some news,' she began. 'My birthday last week became more than a celebration of another trip around the sun... It became a celebration of our forever! 'There is no one I'd rather do life with,' she continued. 'I love you @adamcoates4. Thank you for choosing me for keeps.' She then recalled how he surprised her by gathering her friends and family at their home to celebrate with them after she said yes. 'What an incredible day and after we were met with 30 friends and family back at home,' she continued. 'I don't know how you got it all by me but it was perfect,' she added. In parenthesis, she expressed shock at how she was genuinely surprised and wrote: 'Seriously, how did you plan it all without me even noticing!?' Vandervoort went on to thank her loved ones for keeping the secret and celebrating with them. 'Thank you friends and family who somehow kept it under wraps and made for such a beautiful homecoming [sic],' she gushed. Bride-to-be: Before revealing the news that she was now betrothed, the Miracle in Bethlehem, PA star had shared a series of photos and teased that she had 'a secret you can't wait to share' Pre-announcement: In the photos, she was bundled up in a striped sweater, cream scarf, and fuzzy beanie as she enjoyed a cup of coffee outside Her now-fiance: She revealed that after celebrating her birthday last week, her now-fiance proposed to her as they watched a sunset on a downtown rooftop. He then surprised her with all of their loved ones at their home for a celebration 'I was definitely overwhelmed by the amount of love thrown at us,' she said. 'Balloons, candles, food, cake, flowers and lots of hugs.' In other photos she shared as part of the announcement, the happy couple could be seen sharing a moment of laughter and then sitting down to bask in the moment. Vandervoort also shared a photo of the couple sharing a sweet kiss in their lavish kitchen as their loved ones surrounded them and held up glasses of champagne in celebration. Before revealing the news that she was now betrothed, the Miracle in Bethlehem, PA star had shared a series of photos and teased that she had 'a secret you can't wait to share'. In the photos, she was bundled up in a striped sweater, cream scarf, and fuzzy beanie as she enjoyed a cup of coffee outside. 'When that first day of fall hits and you lean in real hard,' she had written in the caption. 'But you're also smiling cause you've got a secret you can't wait to share.' Backstreet Boys star AJ McLean has marked two years of sobriety, after candidly discussing the process of staying on the wagon. 'This coming Tuesday, I will be two years sober, so life is grand right now,' the 45-year-old remarked to People over the weekend. He had a rollercoaster relationship with alcohol, having gone to rehab multiple times over the past couple of decades before giving up drinking for good. In his frank new interview, he did not shy away from expressing the difficulty of remaining on the straight and narrow. 'It never gets easier, but it just becomes a working part of the mind. You have to literally make it an everyday thing whether you make it to a meeting or not,' he said. 'I talk to my sponsor every day. I talk to people in program every day.' Living well: Backstreet Boys star AJ McLean has marked two years of sobriety, after candidly discussing the process of staying on the wagon; pictured last year AJ revealed that earlier this year, he spent 10 weeks undergoing an outpatient mental health program in Arizona following the conclusion of a Backstreet Boys tour. 'I knew I had a window of time, so I said: "You know what? I need to do some inner work. The sobriety thing is good. I need to go back and do some digging,"' said AJ. He described the time he invested in the program as '10 weeks for the rest of my life, I am super grateful for it. It was totally worth it.' Although he said the Backstreet Boys' former Las Vegas residency was 'not good' for him, having occurred during his drinking years, he also made sure not to lay the responsibility for his own substance abuse issues on any one place. 'It's not even about geography,' he said. 'Addiction goes anywhere you go, so I can't blame it on a city. Yes, its Sin City but thats some BS.' AJ freely revealed that he used to hit the bottle in 'podunk wherever,' and that now that he is sober he would 'love' another Las Vegas residency. In order to prevent himself from resorting to alcohol nowadays, his strategy is to 'play the tape out. That's my whole theory. I play out the tape.' Said he: 'I know how it's going to end if I pick up a drink. Now, with the fentanyl crisis, I've lost 12 friends in the last two years. It's terrifying.' Throwback: He had a rollercoaster relationship with alcohol , having gone to rehab multiple times over the past couple of decades; pictured in 2018 before his sobriety He mused: 'It's scary out there. You don't know what's out there. So just don't walk through the door, just stay on this side of the door.' During an appearance on Good Morning America in late 2020, AJ lifted the curtain on his battles with drug and alcohol addiction. He first started using drugs in 2000, one hour before the call time for the shoot of the Backstreet Boys' music video for The Call. His drug use then spiraled out of control to the point that his bandmates - Nick Carter, Kevin Richardson, Brian Littrell, and Howie Dorough - noticed. 'When the boys kind of caught on, I missed out on rehearsal,' he said, revealing that they eventually intervened. They basically broke into my house, and they dumped ice water on me while I was passed out in my bed.' AJ confessed that drink and drugs taken such a toll that 'Everybody started to catch on. I wasn't me anymore, you know, I was just living a lie.' Despite multiple trips to rehab, AJ kept falling off the wagon, before reaching a low point near the end of 2019 following a stint in Las Vegas. AJ, who shares his daughters Elliott, 10, and Lyric, six, with his estranged wife Rochelle, saw that his behavior had begun to affect his family. Family man: AJ shares his daughters Elliott, 10, and Lyric, six, with his estranged wife Rochelle; he is pictured with his daughters this April 'I was never sober. Not for a second. And the turning point for me was when I came back home, my wife could smell it on my breath and my youngest of my two daughters could not sit with me,' he said. At that point he decided to get sober - and in 2020, after competing on Dancing With The Stars, he embarked on an overall fitness journey that saw him drop more than 30 pounds and achieve an enviably toned physique. He told the Today show of his weight loss regimen: 'I'd tell myself: "I'm going to do this, I'm going to do this. I am going to be the best version of myself."' AJ and Rochelle told TMZ in a joint statement in March of this year that they had 'mutually decided to separate temporarily to work on ourselves, and on our marriage with the hope of building a stronger future.' A very fashionable Melissa Leong arrived in Melbourne on Thursday. The MasterChef Australia judge, 40, strode through Melbourne Airport with sleek confidence. Dressed top-to-toe in black, the celebrity food critic was the picture of sophistication. Leong wore a black, low-cut top underneath a longline black blazer, loose black pants, and she carried a designer handbag over one shoulder. She also wore a chauffeur-style hat and and statement sunglasses that she kept on even as she walked through the terminal. A very fashionable Melissa Leong (pictured) arrived in Melbourne on Thursday Dressed top-to-toe in black, the celebrity food critic was the picture of sophistication The famous foodie completed her look with a pair of comfortable yet chic black sandals. Leong rolled her luxury carry-on bags through the terminal, before waiting at baggage claim for her checked luggage. The elegant Melissa then strutted outside and waited for her transport into Melbourne. Leong wore a black, low-cut top underneath a longline black blazer, loose black pants, and she carried a designer handbag over one shoulder As she disembarked, the famous foodie was no doubt thankful she decided to complete her look with a pair of comfortable yet chic black sandals It comes as international culinary superstar Jamie Oliver is said to have inked a $2million deal to replace Zonfrillo in the next season of the reality cooking contest. Channel 10 insiders have confirmed to Woman's Day that Oliver, 48, will be ready to film the new season of the hit cooking show in November. According to the report, the British born foodie has not yet agreed to replace Zonfrillo permanently. Jamie Oliver (pictured) has been tipped to replace Jock Zonfrillo on the next season of MasterChef Australia 'Jamie has inked a deal worth around $2million,' the source told Woman's Day in the latest issue. They said the contract with the best-selling cook book author includes a trip home to the U.K. for Christmas as well as an accommodation allowance for his family when they visit in January. Jamie first appeared as a guest judge on MasterChef during season four in 2012. 'Jamie has inked a deal worth around $2million,' the source told Women's Day in the latest issue. Pictured: Oliver with Andy Allen (L) Melissa Leong and Jock Zonfrillo (R) It comes after Zonfrillo's sudden death made headlines in April. A devastated Oliver paid tribute to his friend and co-star on Instagram soon after the news broke. 'I'm in total shock to wake up to the sudden death of chef Jock Zonfrillo,' he messaged on Instagram. 'We had the best time working together for this years MasterChef, I can't tell how good it was to work with him!' 'Jock was very generous to me with his time and spirit in the show and for that I was really grateful Melisa, Andy & Jock work as the most inspiring judges and mentors and each have there very own unique view and style Jock will be so very missed' He added: 'I can't believe I'm writing this.Sending heart felt love and condolences to all of his family, friends and his second family the master chef team and contestants xxx. Love Jamie.' Delta Goodrem is on cloud nine after getting engaged to her longtime boyfriend Matthew Copely - and she's not afraid to show it. The Australian pop star, 38, was all smiles as she arrived at Sydney Airport hand-in-hand with her new fiance, 36, on Wednesday, ahead of her scheduled performances at Sydney Opera House. Delta's huge diamond engagement ring was hard to miss as she waved at excited fans nearby. Looking glamorous as ever, the Innocent Eyes hitmaker wore a light green pantsuit matched with a quilted black Chanel bag worth around $10,000. She completed her look with a black skivvy, diamond jewellery, leather boots and a pair of sassy sunglasses. Delta Goodrem, 38, (right) was all smiles as she arrived at Sydney Airport hand-in-hand with her new fiance, 36, (left) on Wednesday, ahead of her scheduled performances at Sydney Opera House. Delta styled her blonde locks in a dramatic side parting and accentuated her pout with a slick of cherry red lipstick. Hunky musician Matt was ever the gentleman as he pulled the couples' Louis Vuitton luggage with his spare hand. The long-haired lothario looked stylish in a diaphanous white button-down shirt paired with dark slacks, leather boots and a pair of keyhole sunglasses. Delta's huge diamond engagement ring was hard to miss as she waved at excited fans nearby. Looking glamorous as ever, the Innocent Eyes hitmaker wore a light green pantsuit matched with a quilted black Chanel bag worth around $10,000 She completed her look with a black skivvy, diamond jewellery, leather boots and a pair of sassy sunglasses At times the pair were seen mingling and hugging excited fans, while at other moments Delta was seen smiling for photographers. Delta announced her engagement to Matthew in an Instagram post on Thursday evening along with a loved-up photo of the couple on holiday in Malta. In the image, Delta tenderly embraced her love in front of a stunning seaside vista as the sun set in the foreground and the couple enjoyed a glass of Champagne. Hunky musician Matt was ever the gentleman as he pulled the couples' Louis Vuitton luggage with his spare hand At times the pair were seen mingling and hugging excited fans, while at other moments Delta was seen smiling for photographers 'My best friend asked me to marry him,' she giddily captioned the image, alongside a ring emoji. Delta also shared footage of the precious moment which saw a quartet playing in front of a lawn dusted with white rose petals. As the camera panned across a stunning vista, Delta shared a glimpse of her blinding engagement ring. Delta announced her engagement to Matthew in an Instagram post on Thursday evening along with a loved-up photo of the couple on holiday in Malta In the image, Delta tenderly embraced her love in front of a stunning seaside vista as the sun set in the foreground and the couple enjoyed a glass of Champagne According to leading diamond expert, Zack Stone, a specialist at UK retailer Steven Stone, Delta's diamond sparkler could have sett Matthew back a whopping AUD $123,000. 'Delta's engagement ring from Matthew features what appears to be a 3ct round cut diamond in a solitaire setting,' Stone told Daily Mail Australia. He called it 'the most iconic and popular of all diamond shapes' that is 'believed to signal everlasting love and eternity'. 'The diamond is sat in a solitaire setting, which is a timeless choice for those in search of a style that will always be on trend,' Stone went on. 'The timeless diamond is sat on a pave diamond band, which means that the shank of the ring is lined with small diamond that give it that extra element of radiance.' According to leading diamond expert, Zack Stone, a specialist at UK retailer Steven Stone , Delta's diamond sparkler could have sett Matthew back a whopping AUD $123,000 Delta also shared footage of the precious moment which saw a quartet playing in front of a lawn dusted with white rose petals Kim Cattrall made a rare public appearance with her boyfriend Russell Thomas as they attended the Balmain show during Paris Fashion Week. The actress, 67, who has been with Russell for six years, flashed a broad smile as she arrived hand-in-hand with her American operatic tenor beau, 53. The Sex And The City alum looked incredible in a PVC suit, which included of a double breasted jacket with shoulder pads and gold buttons. She styled the look with a midi skirt and a pair of black patent heels, which boosted her petite frame as she posed for snaps. Kim, who wore her hair in a bouncy blown out style, accessorised with a pair of statement gold earrings and a small black Balmain bag. Model pose: Kim Cattrall made a rare public appearance with her boyfriend Russell Thomas as they attended the Balmain show during Paris Fashion Week Wow! The Sex And The City alum looked incredible in a PVC suit, which included of a double breasted jacket with shoulder pads and gold buttons Meanwhile, Russell, who is 14 years her junior, looked dapper in a black suit which he teamed with a classic white shirt. The long-term couple cosied up as they took their position on the front row at the prestigious fashion presentation. Kim opened up about their 'lovely' relationship during an interview in June. She told The Times that is 'very grateful' for her bond with Russell - a BBC audio engineer - saying they have a 'nice life' together. The pair met in 2016 after Kim recorded an essay about insomnia for BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour. She connected with Russell afterwards and the pair kept in touch before he flew out to Canada where she lives to visit. Speaking to the publication she said her previous relationships had always been 'instinctual' but that 'it was really gradual with Russ'. Fashionista: She styled the look with a midi skirt and a pair of black patent heels, which boosted her petite frame as she posed for snaps Smile: Kim posed with her hand on her hip as she took snaps inside the event She added: 'Our lives were so separate and so different. 'It's a nice life and I'm very grateful for that.' Kim told how the Covid pandemic then 'locked them together' in a 'true test' of their relationship' but that they have been inseparable since, moving between New York, Canada and London. During the interview she also touched on ageing and her changing attitudes towards nips and tucks - after previously saying she was against surgery when she was in her forties. She said: 'I'm in my sixties now and I'm all about battling ageing in every way I can. There are so many other alternatives now, treatments that stimulate your own body to fight ageing. 'But yes, if you have the money and, more importantly, the right surgeon. It can't be emphasised enough. You want to look like you!' 'It's not just a vanity thing. I play a certain kind of woman who looks a certain kind of way. And professionally I am looking after myself.' Before Russell, the Emmy-nominated actress was previously married to Larry Davis, although their marriage was annulled in 1979. She was subsequently married to Andre J. Lyson, and their union was formally dissolved in 1989. The star's third and final marriage was with Mark Levinson, and their time together lasted from 1998 until 2004. Cattrall eventually began a relationship with Thomas, and she often shares photos with her boyfriend to her Instagram account. Glowing: The actress, 67, who has been with Russell for six years, flashed a broad smile as she arrived hand-in-hand with her American operatic tenor beau Candid: Kim opened up about their 'lovely' relationship during an interview in June Tallulah Willis gushed over a glamorous snap of her mum Demi Moore attending the Saint Laurent show during Paris Fashion Week on Wednesday. The actress, 29, shared a snap of her at the event - where she suffered an X-rated wardrobe malfunction - to her Instagram. She sweetly penned underneath: 'Your next husband is so lucky omfg' The actress, 60, looked glamorous in a sheer black gown with matching underwear underneath. Demi was posing for snaps when she lifted her arm up and accidentally flashed her boob. 'Your next husband is so lucky omfg': Tallulah Willis gushed over a glam snap of her mum Demi Moore at the Saint Laurent show on Wednesday where she suffered wardrobe malfunction Family: The actress, 32, shared a snap of her at the event - where she suffered an X-rated wardrobe malfunction - to her Instagram (Scout and Tallulah seen together in March 2023) The star didn't seem bothered by the racy display as she continued to smiling and posing for the cameras. She boosted her height in chic stilettos and hid her eyes behind a pair of oversized sunglasses. Demi shares three daughters - Rumer, 35, Scout, 32, and Tallulah - with her ex husband actor Bruce Willis. Demi's shiny raven tresses were styled poker straight and she sported a bronzed makeup palette which accentuated her natural features. The star flashed her dazzling white smile as she arrived at the star-studded event with supermodel Kate Moss. Paris Fashion Week is a series of designer presentations held semiannually in Paris, France, with spring/summer and autumn/winter events held each year. Dates are determined by the French Fashion Federation and shows are held at venues throughout the city. Demi's appearance came hours after her ex-husband Bruce Willis made a rare public outing amid his battle with dementia. Revealing: The beauty was posing for snaps when she lifted her arm up and accidentally flashed her boob Stunning: The actress looked glamorous in a sheer black gown while wearing matching underwear underneath Beaming: The star didn't seem bothered by the racy display as she continued to smiling and posing for the cameras Stylish: She carried a black patent clutch handbag Ex: It came hours after her ex-husband Bruce Willis made a rare public outing amid his battle with dementia Rare sighting: The Hollywood icon was seen in the passenger seat of a car in Los Angeles , on Monday - the same day that Emma, 45, revealed it's 'hard to know' if he is even aware of what is happening to him health-wise Demi and her former partner, 68, remain close friends and share their three daughters. The family have rallied around the Die Hard actor after he was diagnosed with Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) - an uncommon form of dementia that causes a deterioration in behaviour, personality and language. They publicly revealed his condition in February of this year and his wife Emma Heming recently gave a heartbreaking update on his ongoing battle with dementia. The Hollywood icon was seen in the passenger seat of a car in Los Angeles, on Monday - the same day that Emma, 45, revealed it's 'hard to know' if he is even aware of what is happening to him health-wise. Emma fought back tears while she opened up about how she and her two daughters with the actor are coping with the 'grief and the sadness' of watching the actor's health decline in an interview on the Today show. 'What I'm learning is that dementia is hard,' she said, during an appearance at the show's New York studio. 'It's hard on the person diagnosed. It's also hard on the family. And that is no different for Bruce or myself or our girls. 'And when they say that this is a family disease, it really is.' When asked how she went about explaining his illness to their children, she said: 'I think it's always been... we're a very honest and open household. 'And, the most important thing was to be able for us to say what the disease was, explain what it is because when you know what the disease is from a medical standpoint it sort of all makes sense. 'So it was important that we let them know what it is because, you know, I don't want there to be any stigma or shame attached to their dad's diagnosis, or for any form of dementia.' When asked by host Hoda Kotb if he is aware of what is happening to him, Emma paused and revealed: 'Hard to know'. But despite the difficulty of caring for her husband, she said receiving a diagnosis has made life 'easier'. 'I think it was the blessing and the curse. You know, to sort of finally understand what was happening so that I can be into the acceptance of what is. 'It doesn't make it any less painful, but just being in the acceptance and just being in the know of what is happening to Bruce just makes it a little bit easier. 'There is so many beautiful things happening in our lives. It is just really important for me to look up from the grief and the sadness so that I can see what is happening around us,' Emma added. In a particularly touching moment, Hoda asked Emma what she thinks Bruce is teaching their girls as they all come to terms with his illness as a family. 'Honestly, he is the gift that keeps on giving. Love, patience, resilience, so much...' Emma said. 'And he's teaching me and our whole... I mean, you know, for me to be out here doing this, this is not my comfort zone, but this is the power of Bruce.' Hoda continued: 'I have heard from people that have an ailing family member, and I remember this from a friend of mine... she said, "my husband's diagnosis made my kids better people". Is that what you're noticing?' The family: Bruce's daughters Scout and Tallulah showed their support to Emma after the interview (L-R) Rumer Willis, Demi Moore, Bruce Willis, Scout, Emma and Tallulah in 2019 'That is what I'm noticing,' Emma replied. 'Listen, I think my kids would be great no matter what! And this is not what I would want for them. But really, like I said, it is teaching them so much and how to care and love and it's a beautiful thing amongst the sadness.' She confirmed that she refers to herself as Bruce's 'care partner' as opposed to his 'caretaker', and also noted the importance of taking care of herself as well. 'It's so important to ask for help and support. And you can look to organizations like the AFTD, like Hilarity For Charity... it is sort of a great starting point. 'And it's important for care partners to look after themselves so that they can be the best care, partner for the person that they're caring for,' she added. Ashley Roberts looked sensational in a black semi-sheer corseted jumpsuit as she attended the intimate Kylie Minogue gig at Shepherd's Bush Empire in London on Wednesday night. The former Pussycat Doll, 42, showed of her fabulous physique in the racy outfit as she flashed plenty of skin through the lacy leg and bodice detailing. The radio host completed the look with an oversized black blazer and black leather boots. Showcasing her ample cleavage, the star wore her blonde hair down as she donned a striking heavy eyeliner look. She looked to be in good spirits as she headed to the event, carrying her essentials in a small black leather handbag. Wow: Ashley Roberts, 42, put on a racy display in a black semi-sheer corseted jumpsuit as she attended an intimate Kylie Minogue concert in London on Wednesday Stunner: The former Pussycat Doll showed of her fabulous physique in the racy outfit as she flashed plenty of skin through the lacy leg and bodice detailing Over on her Instagram the star shared a cheeky selfie on the way to the event as she snapped a picture in the taxi. Pouting cheekily she wrote 'Schnooozin en route'. Ashley looked to have a fabulous time as she filmed clips of the show as her and her friend danced around to the hits. The concert comes after Kylie released her 16th studio album Tension on September 22. And the record is already storming ahead in the charts and looks to stand a chance at earning the Australian superstar her ninth chart topping album. Alison Hammond, Rylan Clarke, and Louise Redknapp also attended the exclusive Kylie Minogue Priority show which was only available to O2 Mobile and Virgin Media broadband customers courtesy of a ballot. Kylie was spotted heading back to her London hotel following her performance at O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire. The pop star, 55, couldn't wipe the smile off her face as she stepped out in an incredibly chic ensemble as she headed back to her room at Claridges Hotel. The dress moulded to the international superstar's torso before flaring out into a jaggedly cut hemline which swished around her over-the-knee black leather boots. Stylish: The radio host completed the look with an oversized black blazer and black leather boots Sensational: Showcasing her ample cleavage, the star wore her blonde hair down as she donned a striking heavy eyeliner look En route: Over on her Instagram the star shared a cheeky selfie on the way to the event as she snapped a picture in the taxi Feeling a chill from the cold night air, the Padam Padam hitmaker shrugged into an oversized black jacket to keep warm. The blonde beauty let her golden tresses fall naturally around her shoulders as she slicked on her signature smoky eye and nude lip makeup combination. At one point, the world famous musician waved for the cameras as she clutched a black designer bag to her side. It comes after Kylie revealed on Thursday she is already eager to 'get back in the studio' following the release of her newest album. Speaking with Hits Radio, Kylie was in the middle of a Q&A with fans online when she made the confession. 'Just tell me - how many good songs can one artist have?' one fanatic asked. Post show: Heading back to her room at Claridges Hotel following her performance at O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire, Kylie slipped into a colourful frock Gorgeous: The dress moulded to the international superstar's torso before flaring out into a jaggedly cut hemline which swished around her over-the-knee black leather boots 'I mean you're really making me have a good day, thank you,' Kylie answered, unable to wipe the smile off her face. She continued: 'How many good songs can one artist have? I don't know, because I already want to get back in the studio and write more. 'I feel like we're on a roll so I would like to - although it's been a long time, my career has been going a long time, right now it feels like it's kind of the start of something. 'Which is hugely exciting. So, the answer is, how many songs? More.' YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 28, ARMENPRESS. The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has deployed a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) in the South Caucasus region to coordinate the U.S. humanitarian response, USAID Administrator Samantha Power said in a statement after traveling to Armenia. This week, I traveled to Armenia to hear directly from the people fleeing their homes in Nagorno-Karabakh in the wake of Azerbaijans September 19-20 attacks. The United States is deeply concerned about the safety of vulnerable populations in Nagorno-Karabakh and the more than 50,000 people who have fled to Armenia. We are grateful to the Government of Armenia for welcoming new arrivals and helping them find shelter and to humanitarian organizations working to address acute needs. Today, I am announcing that the U.S. Agency for International Development has deployed a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) in the South Caucasus region to coordinate the U.S. humanitarian response. The DART will assess the situation, identify priority needs to scale up assistance, and work with partners to provide urgently needed aid. Last weeks unacceptable military operation has made an already dire humanitarian situation even worse. For nine months, Azerbaijan blocked the Lachin Corridor shutting down a vital lifeline that connects the residents of Nagorno-Karabakh with food, medicine, fuel, and commercial supplies which is creating dire shortages. The Lachin Corridor must remain fully and permanently open so that civilians can leave and return freely, communities can access food, medicine, and other essential supplies, and humanitarian organizations can see and meet needs on the ground. Azerbaijan must protect civilians, uphold its obligations to respect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all individuals in its country, and ensure its forces comply with international humanitarian law. Given the scale of the needs, the United States announced $11.5 million in humanitarian assistance earlier this week to support communities across the South Caucasus who are affected by the ongoing crisis. This is in addition to the more than $23 million the United States has provided in humanitarian assistance since 2020 in response to the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh. These funds will be used to provide everything from food to psychosocial support to help address trauma caused by the violence and mass displacement, Power said in the statement. Rylan Clark put on an animated display as he lived it up with celebrity pals following Kylie Minogue's intimate London gig on Wednesday evening. The TV star, 34, joined Kimberley Walsh, Graham Norton, Louise Redknapp, Michelle Visage and Alison Hammond at the O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire for a night of frolics, during which he was seen hanging out in the smoking area. The whole group looked to be having a wild time as they frolicked outside the music venue having watched the music icon on stage. Rylan looked edgy in a Louis Vuitton varsity jacket with black trousers and went for a daring touch by going shirtless beneath the unbuttoned jacket. The star was putting on a brave face on after revealing his home had been invaded by a snake the previous night. He revealed he was left petrified after finding a grass snake in his home a year after it was invaded by another slithery fiend. Wah!! Rylan Clark put on an animated display as he lived it up with celebrity pals following Kylie Minogue's intimate London gig on Wednesday evening Heading in: The TV star, 34, joined Kimberley Walsh, Graham Norton, (right) Louise Redknapp, Michelle Visage, (left) and Alison Hammond at the O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire for a night of frolics, during which he was seen hanging out in the smoking area Hey there: He greeted Louise fondly with a kiss Smokey Joe: Rylan appeared to be clutching a vape Hold me close: He walked hand in hand with a stunning blonde pal Say what! Rylan appeared to be regaling a tale to Louise outside the event Haha! She could not stop laughing while he spoke Post show: Heading back to her room at Claridges Hotel following her performance at O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire, Kylie slipped into a colourful frock Sizzling: Ashley Roberts looked incredible in a lace number Rylan was joined by Graham who looked stylish in a similar jacket - yet went for a less daring style with a blue polo shirt underneath and dark jeans. Michelle looked sensational in a cropped denim jacket and a skin-tight black ensemble with her raven hair scraped back into a ponytail. During his stint in the smoking area, Rylan was chatting animatedly to Louise who went for a sleek all-black ensemble with gold hoops. Inside the event he smiled for cameras while flanked by Alison Hammond as well as posing alongside Graham and Michelle. Prior to the Kylie gig, Rylan took to Instagram to plead with his followers for help after catching site of the wily reptile on his security cameras. Taking to Instagram on Tuesday, Rylan shared footage of the snake on his home that he captioned: 'OH MY F***ING GOD. Noticed one of my cameras had moved. THAT B*****D IS BACK SEND HELP OMG. 'THATS TWICE NOW WTF WHY IS THIS HAPPENING [sic].' Expressing his shock, Rylan revealed he was hiding out away from the area because he 'didn't feel safe' in his house, in Brentwood, Essex. Happy days: Kimberley Walsh looked sensational in a red suit Oh wow: Louise was in fits of giggles at the venue as she chatted to the star Having a laugh: Rylan was having a giggle with his friend while they stumbled into a cab Hey there: Michelle beamed for cameras as she departed the gig My guy: Inside the event he smiled for cameras while flanked by Alison Hammond as well as posing alongside Graham and Michelle That ssssucks! The star was putting on a brave face on after revealing his home had been invaded by a snake the previous night. He revealed he was left petrified after finding a grass snake in his home a year after it was invaded by another slithery fiend Caught on camera: He took to Instagram to plead with his followers for help after catching site of the wily reptile on his security cameras Despite calling in professional help, Rylan revealed the snake had managed to evade capture, sharing a video captioned: 'Thanks @gtkanimals . Snake 1 Rylan 0.' He explained: 'We didn't find the snake...the lovely people from GTK Animals, they have some zoo where they find alligators and stuff, I wasn't really listening because my head... But we haven't found the snake.' 'I've come back in and I forgot that I left my belt on the kitchen side and it scared the s*** out of me. So no update on the snake, but we've found the frog. So yeah...the snake lives another day. 'I'll be checking those cameras an we'll go from there. I won't be sleeping tonight, have a lovely night.' Last summer, Rylan was faced with another visit from a footless intruder, asking fans: 'Is it going to attack' and complaining 'this was why he shouldn't live alone.' Rylan posted a series of videos in the early hours that showed the snake slithering on the carpet, complaining he had no idea who to call to remove such an animal from his front room. Sharing a series of videos of the snake last August, Rylan shouted: 'A f****ng snake in my house - what do you do? What do you do? 'Can someone tell me what do I do, I think this is why I shouldn't live alone. I tried to touch it and now it's moving! Oh my God what is this creature? Will it attack? I don't know I can't deal with it.' Froggy friend: Despite calling in professional help, Rylan revealed the snake had managed to evade capture, although the experts did find a frog Do you know this snake? Last summer, Rylan was faced with another visit from a footless intruder, asking fans, complaining 'this was why he shouldn't live alone' Showing the snake slithering towards him Rylan added: 'Guys it literally just went at me - no!' Turning the camera on his terrified reaction, he added: 'The snake it's moved away, but I don't think it's gone out it's gone in the doors. I've been googling can you get killed by them. Why is this happening why there is a snake in my house? 'I knew there was a few snakes in Brentwood but I didn't think there was actual snakes. You don't need this on a hangover!' Later Rylan shared another video telling fans he hadn't seen the snake for over an hour, but he couldn't sleep because he was 'frightened it would come back.' Later that month, Rylan was forced to face his fears live on This Morning as he was introduced to Saffy the python. The presenter was visibly shaking when Saffy came out with a snake handler. Rylan shouted 'oh go away' as the large reptile was brought out on the morning show. He then drily quipped: 'No, what are you doing?! I've not been on daytime for years and I'm gonna swear!' The one-time Big Brother housemate said that he actually preferred Saffy to the grass snake he encountered at his home. Rylan eventually brought himself to feel Saffy despite his phobias, but appeared to be shaken by the slithery encounter. Kim Kardashian has been called 'shockingly great' by American Horror Story fans. The reality star, 42, portrays ruthless publicist Siobhan Corbyn in FX's series Delicate and viewers have joked she is 'basically playing herself'. When Kim took on the role, she faced scrutiny as she has no previous acting background. But despite initial doubts, the TV star has proved a hit with fans who have taken to X - formerly known as Twitter - to say how they 'unironically love' her as Siobhan. One wrote: '@KimKardashian is doing the damn thing on American Horror Story idc what anyone says'. Other viewers added; 'Kim Kardashian was the best addition to AHS possible' and 'FINALLY feels like AHS again! Really enjoying this season! And @KimKardashian is shockingly great!' Impressed: Kim Kardashian has been called 'shockingly great' by American Horror Story fans She's a hit! The reality star, 42, portrays ruthless publicist Siobhan Corbyn in the series Delicate and viewers have joked she is 'basically playing herself' 'Kim nailed it in American Horror story. I had my doubts but great job KK.' 'So Kim Kardashian is basically playing herself in the new American Horror Story 'I unironically love Kim Kardashian in AHS', wrote another fan. 'I love when gorgeous women prove to people they are more then just a pretty face , go head my Libra sis', said another. And while Kim generally received a positive reaction from fans, not everyone was impressed. One user said Kim's presence on the scripted series put them off to watching the episode. Another added: 'Watching Kim Kardashian ruin another episode of AHS.' In episode two, Kim gave a nod to her Marilyn Monroe dress. Her character who is a publicity rep for actress Anna Victoria Alcott, played by Emma Roberts, also boasted about her team giving sexual favours in exchange for awards votes. Fans: Despite initial doubts, the TV star has proved a hit with fans who have taken to X - formerly known as Twitter - to say how they 'unironically love' her as Siobhan Ruthless: The reality star plays the publicity rep for actress Anna Victoria Alcott, played by Emma Roberts References: In an allusion to Kim's wearing of Marilyn Monroe's dress to the Met Gala last year, she advised Alcott not to rip it Acting: They were seen dancing in front of a mirror to the Madonna song Sooner or Later, which caused the mirror to shatter into pieces Talk of NYC: Kim generated buzz and controversy at the Met Gala last year when she wore Marilyn Monroe's dress to the event The episode opened as Alcott and her husband Dex (Matt Czuchry) were seen speaking with investigators, who told her she was mistaken about her idea that an intruder had broken into their apartment. Detectives told her it was likely a reaction to her medication. Corbyn was at the head of the pack as she welcomed Alcott into a packed office. She told her that she had received a Gotham Award nomination for her work in the independent film The Auteur, and that she was a shoo-in to be nominated for an Oscar. Later, in a one-on-one meeting in Corbyn's office, Corbyn dressed down Alcott about her behavior amid the award season grind. 'OK so what happened to you the other night was f***ed - but I need you to get it together,' Corbyn told Alcott. 'Do you know how hard my staff has worked for you? How many hours we've spent campaigning for this nomination? 'How many b***jobs were collectively given for you to even be considered? I mean, Derek's jaw may never recover.' Corbyn continued to chastise Alcott about her lack of animation in the public eye. Criticism: One user said Kim's presence on the scripted series put them off to watching the episode. Another added: 'Watching Kim Kardashian ruin another episode of AHS' 'So let me know if there's no joy in this job for you I can help you fill out an application to work at Costco,' she said to her. She cited Jamie Lee Curtis' recent Oscar push as an inspiration to Alcott to push hard for an Oscar, asking Alcott if she thinks Curtis 'enjoyed getting into all those inane conversations about being a nepo baby' on the red carpet earlier this year. Corbyn purchased Alcott a dress - the one earmarked for Madonna to wear to the 1991 Oscars in the storyline - which Alcott wore to the Gotham Awards. In an allusion to Kim's wearing of Marilyn Monroe's dress to the Met Gala last year, she advised Alcott, 'Do not rip it.' They were seen dancing in front of a mirror to the Madonna song Sooner or Later, which caused the mirror to shatter into pieces. Jennifer Aniston flaunted her incredible toned body in black underwear as she gave a glimpse behind the scenes at one of her recent photoshoots on Wednesday. The actress, 54, posed for a daring shoot for Issue 23 of CR Fashion Book which has been called 'Muses.' And taking to Instagram Jennifer shared some unseen moments of herself behind the camera as she wore skimpy black underwear under an oversized blazer. Her gym-honed and lithe legs were on display as she took on a series of poses holding out her arms to reveal her physique beneath the blazer. Other moments saw her posing in a black cape and another suit before elsewhere she was seen being shown the snaps on the camera. Stunning: Jennifer Aniston flaunted her incredible toned body in black underwear as she gave a glimpse behind the scenes at one of her recent photoshoots on Wednesday Work it: The actress, 54, posed for a daring shoot for Issue 23 of CR Fashion Book which has been called 'Muses' She was also seen hugging various members of the team on set as they wrapped up the day. Jennifer penned in the caption: 'On set fun with @crfashionbook.' For the final pictures, in one image the Malibu beach blonde with the golden tan had on a black bikini top with a black tie under a very cropped white bolero jacket. '@carineroitfeld this was a dream come true to work with you. And the incredible @zoeygrossman The ridiculously talented hair and makeup team. @mrchrismcmillan and @georgieeisdell,' wrote the ex of Brad Pitt in her caption. The star is promoting season three of The Morning Show, which also stars Reese Witherspoon and will see Jon Hamm added to the cast. The shoot won raves: Julianne Moore said Jennifer was 'gorgeous' while Michelle Pfeiffer added, 'Breathtaking.' Jen was also talking up LolaVie. And she dished on how she stays in such top, red carpet ready shape. Looking good: And taking to Instagram Jennifer shared some unseen moments of herself behind the camera as she wore skimpy black underwear under an oversized blazer Toned: Her gym-honed and lithe legs were on display as she took on a series of poses holding out her arms to reveal her physique beneath the blazer Heels: She boosted her height with black pointy heels and accessorised with gold hoop earrings Posing up a storm: She looked as glowing as ever while in a crouching position as she modelled the black blazer Covered up: For another effortlessly chic look she added matching wide-leg trousers to the jacket 'I drink a lot of water, move my body daily, try to eat whole, fresh foods, and get as much sleep as I can,' said the Cake actress. 'That last part is challenging for me, but its so important. I feel it when I dont get enough rest. 'In addition to all of that, I try to be really mindful about what I let into my head- space. 'Our world is really going through some challenges, and I know we all care a lot, but sometimes I think its imperative that we turn off the noise,' she added. And she named her hair icon. 'I just love beautiful hair. But I mean, did I love Valerie Bertinelli on the cover of UsWeekly magazine when she was wearing a red angora sweater and took that into the hair salon in the 80s? Mayyyyybe.' Then she talked up her workouts with Pvolve. 'I love it so much! Pvolve is a unique approach to fitness that Im so excited to share with others.' The TV favorite added it was 'transformative' for her. 'I leave every workout feeling energized and strong, but not beat up,' said the ex of Justin Theroux. 'I encourage people to try it and see it for themselves. Whatever your fitness level, its a workout where you can truly start where you are.' The workouts are less stressful, added Aniston. 'Ive been motivated to work out in a way I havent been in years. I look for- ward to the challenging classes and I feel stronger and more comfortable in my body when Im doing it. Its different every time, I dont think Ive had the same class twice.' She also touched on loving medicine. 'Ive always found it fascinating. There was a period when my dad went to medical school, when acting slowed down for him, which is why we moved to Greece when I was five or six. 'So I had a doctor/actor (LOL) in the house who introduced me to the world of medicine and research. Styles: Other moments saw her posing in a black cape and another suit before elsewhere she was seen being shown the snaps on the camera Tresses: She wore her honey tresses in beachy waves and opted for a typically bronzed makeup look Leggy: She flashed her toned pins in the black cape as she twirled around to show off the all-black outfit Checking in: She leaned over to look at the pictures that had been taken of her during the photoshoot Kind: She was also seen hugging various members of the team on set as they wrapped up the day 'We would sit and watch medical programs during dinner. Even like micro surgeriesnot what you would normally want to watch during suppertime.' Thats where the interest 'sparked.' 'I am always grateful to the science and medical community who advance our knowledge of the human body, our health, and how we can continue to thrive as we age,' she added. CR Fashion Book Issue 23 and CR Men Issue 17 will be available on newsstands October 3. Anistons CR Fashion Book shoot comes after Kim Kardashians buzzcut look for the issue. Ross Kemp looked unrecognisable on Good Morning Britain as he revealed unseen pictures of himself with a head of hair. The shots from his younger years were taken when he was a young adult, first playing rugby with short hair, and also sporting a 1980s style bouffant shortly after leaving drama school. The former EastEnders actor was on ITV's morning programme to promote his new book, Take Nothing For Granted: Tales From An Unexpected Life. In opening up about career secrets, the 59-year-old also showed off some never-before seen pictures from his younger years which are barely identifiable as the TV hardman. Kemp's dark hair in the picture of him during a rugby game stood out to give him a totally different look from his iconic bald appearance which became legendary in his soap career. Changes: EastEnders legend Ross Kemp appeared on Good Morning Britain on Thursday and looked unrecognisable with a full head of hair in throwback pictures shown on the show Unrecognisable: The actor looked most different in a photo of him after he finished drama school (above) Younger years: Kemp was pictured with short dark hair while playing rugby as a young man He also discussed how he sneakily upped his earnings while performing as Grant Mitchell on the BBC show. He told presenters Ben Shepherd and Susanna Reid: 'If you were doing three days in the Vic, which you would normally do, I would normally be standing back. 'I'd work out that I was not in the middle episode that they were shooting that day and obviously cameras like the one pointing at me now has a red light on top of it when it's recording. 'So I got on very well with the camera guys and I'd say: "Is this episode 235 and not episode 234 or 233?" 'They'd go "Yes", I'm not in that one, well I am now. '"Big Ron, er pint and pork scratchings was it? Ok, mate, I'll be back in a second." Episode fee.' Despite the actor's brawn becoming his defining characteristic, with shows like Ross Kemp On Gangs and Ross Kemp: Extreme World adding to his CV, he clearly had plenty of brains too working out he could boost his appearance numbers. However, he could not get away with it forever. He added: 'They soon cottoned on to me I'll have to say.' Infamous: Kemp (pictured with the late Barbara Windsor - who played his mother Peggy), became known for his hardman role in the iconic BBC soap as Grant Mitchell Tell-all: Kemp was on ITV promoting his new book Take Nothing For Granted: Tales From An Unexpected Life in discussion with Ben Shepherd and Susanna Reid Despite filming documentaries in harsh and unique environments such as wartime Afghanistan and Belmarsh Prison, Kemp describes the most difficult part of his job being how he spent so much time away from his four children. He said: 'I don't expect sympathy. You can't come back and moan about the conditions in a prison when she [his wife Renee O'Brien] has been doing two jobs - one being a mum and the other being a lawyer. 'If I wanted sympathy and looked for it I don't think I would get very much - so there is no point in asking. 'I say it in the book, you think my job is hard but the hardest job you will ever do is being a parent.' Amanda Holden went braless as she departed Heart FM's London studios on Thursday after showing support for former co-star David Walliams. The BGT judge, 52, looked incredible in a tight polo neck top that she teamed with a green leather midi skirt. She elevated her height with a pair of tan stilettos and carried a matching handbag. Amanda styled her blonde hair with a slight wave and shielded her eyes with some large sunglasses. It comes after Amanda was pictured at David's 52nd birthday party earlier this month - alongside a whole host of showbiz royalty. Out and about: Amanda Holden, 52, went braless as she departed Heart FM's London studios on Thursday after showing support for former co-star David Walliams All smiles: The BGT judge looked incredible in a tight polo neck top that she teamed with a green leather midi skirt David and Simon Cowell's friendship is said to be 'on the rocks' as the comedian sues his former bosses at Britain's Got Talent. The Little Britain creator, 52, is seeking significant damages from London-based Fremantle for a data protection breach after he quit his 1.5million a year job when audio surfaced of him making vile remarks about contestants during a break in filming. And while David and Simon's once close friendship is said to be on the brink of collapse, the comedian has a number of stars who are still supporting him in the wake of the controversy. While Amanda and Alesha are fiercely loyal to Simon, they also formed a close friendship with David. The comedian took his seat alongside them as a host of Britain's Got Talent for ten years, before he stepped down from his role last year. Former Strictly judge Bruno Tonioli took his place. When David announced he was departing the show, Amanda said on The One Show: 'We'll miss David.' Distance is said to have grown between Simon and David as he seeks significant damages from London-based Fremantle, which produces the reality series for ITV . Legal paperwork suggests he is accusing bosses of leaking details of his rude comments to a newspaper. Court papers lodged at the High Court in London last Thursday, accuse the firm of data protection breach over the leaked transcript which prompted a swift end to ten year long stint as a judge on the show. Support: It comes after Amanda was pictured at David's 52nd birthday party earlier this month - alongside a whole host of showbiz royalty Chic: She elevated her height with a pair of tan stilettos and carried a matching handbag Stunning: She shielded her eyes with some large sunglasses Walliams, who is worth around 17million, quit the show last November, two weeks after he was caught calling an elderly contestant a 'c***' during a break in filming. He was also heard disparaging a female contestant, calling her a 'slightly boring girl you meet in the pub that thinks you want to f*** them, but you don't'. Comedian Clare Harrison Mccartney later claimed these comments were about her and branded Walliams a 'sad misogynist', but producers on the show denied the remarks were aimed at her. Bruno later took over from him on the talent show, signing a big money deal . A source told The Sun about David's decision to leave at the time: 'He hasn't taken the decision lightly, but it just feels like time to move on.' 'David has decided to bow out after a ten-year run. He wants to leave on a high after a wonderful time. 'His team have quietly been having conversations over the past few days where it has been made clear that David is readying himself to step down and then producers will start to think about who might replace him.' The star has hired legal company Brandsmiths, who specialise in data protection breaches. Reports earlier this year claimed that Walliams quit BGT after the lewd and rude comments which he made during filming the show at the London Palladium in 2020 were exposed. However, sources at the time suggested that he was actually pushed after a crisis management team was drafted in by Fremantle to manage the scandal which led to the former Little Britain comic apologising. Legal drama: Distance is said to have grown between Simon and David as he seeks significant damages from London-based Fremantle (pictured in 2012 with Alesha and Amanda) Pals: While Amanda and Alesha Dixon are fiercely loyal to Simon, they also formed a close friendship with David Tasty: In one of the snaps David could be seen blowing out the candles of a yummy looking cake with a expletive-laden message The comments, made in January 2020 during auditions at the London Palladium, were picked up on the programme's microphones. He and his lawyers argued at the time that they were private conversations that were never intended for broadcast but two weeks later he was ousted. In one incident, an older performer engaged in light-hearted banter with the judges in which he made a jibe about Walliams, an expose by The Guardian claimed. After the audition, the pensioner left, after which Walliams is said to have described him as a 'c**t' three times. In a separate incident, after a female contestant had walked off stage, Walliams remarked: 'She's like the slightly boring girl you meet in the pub that thinks you want to f*** them, but you don't.' He later added: 'I know, she's just like: 'Oh, f*** off!' I was saying, she thinks you want to f*** her, but you don't. 'It's the last thing on your mind, but she's like: 'Yep, I bet you do!' 'No I don't! I had a bit of a b***r, but now it's going, it's now shrivelled up inside my body.' After the transcript was released a source at Britain's Got Talent told the Mail it 'could not have come at a worse time' for Walliams as his deal to return to the show had not been finalised. They added: 'David's remarks have now become a huge part of the conversation. 'He hasn't signed any deal yet which has come as a relief because now there are options. 'It is a family show and this isn't just a negative thing to happen, it is offensive to people.' Walliams was axed from the show after makin vile remarks about contestants, including one female competitor. Comedian Clare Harrison McCartney (pictured) claimed she was the subject of the these remarks, although this has been denied by BGT producers Replacement: Bruno later took over from him on the talent show, signing a big money deal Walliams, one of the UK's best-known television personalities and children's book authors, was forced to apologise for his outbursts - but insisted that they were private conversations. In a statement given to the Guardian after the transcripts were revealed, Walliams said: 'I would like to apologise to the people I made disrespectful comments about during breaks in filming for Britain's Got Talent in 2020. 'These were private conversations and like most conversations with friends were never intended to be shared. Nevertheless, I am sorry.' However, it was confirmed weeks later that he would not be returning to the show. ITV said at the time that it did not 'condone' the language used and had spoken to producers of BGT. Fremantle declined to comment. Harry Potter fans were left brokenhearted on Thursday when it was revealed Sir Michael Gambon, who played Albus Dumbledore, had passed away. His family announced that the star of six of the eight movies in the franchise had died peacefully in hospital aged 82 following a bout of pneumonia. Michael's passing is the latest in a number of heartbreaking deaths from stars of the wizarding world of JK Rowling, including Robbie Coltrane's death last year and Hollywood legend Alan Rickman's 2016 death. We take a look at the stars of the Wizarding World who have sadly passed away... Devastating: Harry Potter fans were left brokenhearted on Thursday when it was revealed Sir Michael Gambon, who played Albus Dumbledore, has passed away Legends: Late Harry Potter stars Robbie Coltrane and Michael Gambon together in 2011 Alan Rickman - 2016 - Severus Snape Alan Rickman - 2016 - Severus Snape Alan passed away in January 2016 aged 69. He starred as villain-turned-hero Severus Snape in all eight of the films. His death came after a short battle with pancreatic cancer. He died at a London hospital, surrounded by friends and relatives including his wife Rima, after waging a secret fight with the illness. He apparently concealed his diagnosis from all but close confidants, and kept an upbeat demeanour even weeks before his death. It was claimed that the star had a suspected stroke in August 2015, which led to his cancer diagnosis. Writing on Showbiz 411, Roger Friedman said that Alan told a select few friends about the disease during a visit to New York in December 2015 - when he was pictured at the musical Hamilton in what is the last known photograph of him. The charity Pancreatic Cancer Action said in a statement: 'We were very sad to hear that one of Britains most popular actors, Alan Rickman, passed away after a short battle with pancreatic cancer. 'Our thoughts are with all his friends and family at this very sad time.' Robbie Coltrane - 2022 - Hagrid Robbie passed away in October 2022 aged 72 Robbie passed away in October 2022 aged 72. The Scottish star, whose real name is Anthony Robert McMillan, was best known for playing the beloved Hogwarts gamekeeper Hagrid and starring as criminal psychologist Dr Eddie 'Fitz' Fitzgerald in the 90s ITV drama. Shortly after his death, it was confirmed that he died from multiple organ failure on his death certificate. At the time of his death, he was reportedly suffering from sepsis, a lower respiratory tract infection, Type 2 diabetes, heart block and obesity. Robbie was rumoured to have had serious health issues earlier this year after he was forced to pull out of London's Comic Con in June due to medical reasons. He left behind his former wife Rhona Gemmell who he married in 1999, sister Annie Rae and his children Spencer, who was born in 1992 and Alice, born in 1998. Robert Hardy - 2017 - Cornelius Fudge Robert Hardy passed away in August 2017 aged 91 Robert Hardy passed away in August 2017 aged 91. The actor was best known for his roles as vet Siegfried Farnon in the BBC show, which was popular in the Seventies and Eighties, and as Minister for Magic Cornelius Fudge in the Harry Potter franchise. In a statement announcing his death this afternoon, Hardy's children, Emma, Justine and Paul, described their father's life as 'tremendous'. He had a career in stage, television and film which spanned more than 70 years. Richard Griffiths - 2013 - Vernon Dursley Richard Griffiths passed away in 2013 at the age of 65 Richard Griffiths passed away in 2013 at the age of 65. The theatrical, television and film actor died after suffering complications related to heart surgery at the University Hospital of Coventry and Warwickshire. He starred in Alan Bennett's play The History Boys and appeared in cult classic Withnail and I as the comic Uncle Monty after starting with a small role in Richard Attenborough's Gandhi , but he found a new audience of fans as Vernon Dursley in Harry Potter. Withnail's Richard E. Grant said: 'Chin chin dear friend.' Helen McCrory - 2021 - Narcissa Malfoy Helen McCrory passed away in April 2021 aged 52. Helen McCrory passed away in April 2021 aged 52. She died after a secret 'heroic battle' with cancer, her husband Damian Lewis revealed in a heartbreaking statement. The 'beautiful and mighty' actress, who played Polly Gray in the Birmingham-based BBC show Peaky Blinders and Narcissa Malfoy in the blockbuster wizard films, died 'peacefully' at home surrounded by friends and family. Homeland star Damian tweeted: 'I'm heartbroken to announce that after a heroic battle with cancer, the beautiful and mighty woman that is Helen McCrory has died peacefully at home, surrounded by a wave of love from friends and family. 'She died as she lived. Fearlessly. God we love her and know how lucky we are to have had her in our lives. She blazed so brightly. Go now, Little One, into the air, and thank you.' Helen, who was awarded the OBE for services to drama in the 2017 New Years Honours, was best known for playing the matriarch Polly in Peaky Blinders and Narcissa Malfoy in the Harry Potter films. Paul Ritter - 2021 - Edred Worple Paul Ritter passed away in April 2021 aged 54 Paul Ritter passed away in April 2021 aged 54. The Friday Night Dinner and Chernobyl star died of a brain tumour at home, with wife Polly and sons Frank and Noah at his bedside. He was best known to thousands of TV viewers as the affable father Martin Goodman in the Channel 4 sit-com Friday Night Dinner, alongside Tamsin Greig, Simon Bird and Tom Rosenthal. His turn in HBO drama Chernobyl saw him as one of the Ukrainian disaster's villains, chief engineer Anatoly Dyatlov, a world away from the light-hearted patriarch. He was in films including Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince and Quantum of Solace, as well as the lauded mini-series about the Ukranian nuclear power station disaster. Dave Legeno - 2014 - Fenrir Greyback David Legeno passed away in July 2014 aged 50. The actor, who portrayed werewolf Fenrir Greyback in three movies in the wizard film franchise, died while hiking in Death Valley in California. He was found by two hikers in the area. Authorities said Dave died of heat stroke, after an autopsy was performed by the Inyo County Coroner. At the time, insiders revealed it was thought his body may have been there for three or four days before he was found. Temperatures in Death Valley are known to reach more than 120 degrees. A representative for the actor told MailOnline in a statement: 'We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dave Legeno. Dave was an absolute pleasure to work with; talented, funny and intelligent... 'He had a storied career in many fields, and a fantastic reputation throughout the film industry. Weve lost a true gentleman, and our thoughts are with his loved ones at this difficult time.' County Deputy Coroner Jason Molinar says David's body was partially decomposed and may have been lying for days in triple-digit heat. There was no sign of foul play. He played the werewolf in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince as well as the final two movies, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2. Leslie Phillips - 2022 - The Sorting Hat Leslie Phillips passed away in November 2022 aged 98 Leslie Phillips passed away in November 2022 aged 98. The actor - best known for his 'Ding Dong', 'Well, Hello' and 'I Say' catchphrases - had been battling a long illness. Younger fans however may have recognised his voice from the Harry Potter films, in which he did the voiceover for the Sorting Hat. Leslie, who acted in 150 films, suffered a life-threatening stroke in 2015, and had been recovering at his home over the last few years. Roger Lloyd Pack - 2014 - Barty Crouch, Sr. Roger Lloyd Pack passed away in January 2014 aged 69 Roger Lloyd Pack passed away in January 2014 aged 69. His agent Maureen Vincent said he had suffered from pancreatic cancer and had died at home surrounded by his family. The star, who was known to millions as the dim-witted Trigger in Only Fools And Horses, played Barty Crouch, Sr. in The Goblet Of Fire. Rob Knox - 2008 - Marcus Belby Rob Knox passed away in May 2008 aged just 18 Rob Knox passed away in May 2008 aged just 18. He was stabbed to death outside the Metro Bar in Sidcup, Kent, by Karl Bishop, who had only recently been released from prison after another stabbing. He was knifed five times as he tried to protect his younger brother Jamie after hearing Bishop had threatened him with a knife. Rob was taken to hospital but pronounced dead. Bishop was jailed for a minimum 20 years for his murder. Following his passing, Daniel wrote an emotional tribute to the murdered actor. The pair worked together on the Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince. Daniel was one of many of the Potter cast and crew to pen a personal message in the aftermath of Robs death. He wrote: Dear Rob, We are all proud to have known you and devastated to have lost you. It is terrible just to write this note. Rest in peace, Dan xxx.' Hazel Douglas - 2016 - Nagini Terence Bayler - 2016 - The Bloody Barron Paul Grant - 2023 - Gringott's Goblin David Ryall - 2014 - Elphias Doge Sam Beazley - 2017 - Professor Everard Elizabeth Spriggs - 2008 - The Fat Lad Jimmy Gardner - 2010 - Knight Bus driver Ernie Prang Casting director: Mary Selway - 2004 Angela Scanlon headed to rehearsals on Thursday, days after she was reported to police over her reckless dancing in a moving car. The One Show presenter, 39, had a smile back on her face as she was accompanied by her professional partner Carlos Gu, 39, to the dance studio in London. Angela issued an apology after footage emerged on her Instagram of her leaning out of the rear window dancing, without wearing a seat belt. Seemingly putting the week's drama to one side, Angela focused on rehearsing Saturday's upcoming dance. The pair are set to perform the jive to Trouble by Shampoo for Strictly's first live show on Saturday. Smile back on her face: Angela Scanlon headed to rehearsals on Thursday, days after she was reported to police over her reckless dancing in a moving car Keep dancing: The One Show presenter, 39, had a smile back on her face as she was accompanied by her professional partner Carlos Gu, 39, to the dance studio in London Angela looked effortless stylish in an oversized navy blazer, denim jeans and trainers, while Carlos cut a cool figure in a trench coat and carried a Dior tote bag. Other Strictly stars including Nigel Harman and Katya Jones and Les Dennis and Nancy Xu were pictured arriving for their rehearsals ahead of the first live show. The rehearsals come two days after Angela was reported to the police over the video obtained by MailOnline, was uploaded to her Instagram account before being hastily deleted. Angela said: 'I made absolutely the wrong decision when I filmed this video. I was coming from rehearsals and was giddy with excitement. 'That's not an excuse, because what I did was stupid and I'm sorry I let my excitement get the better of my judgement'. In the clip Angela can be heard laughing as she performs the dangerous sequence as the car travels at speed. A source told MailOnline: 'Angela thought she was having a laugh, playing up to being on Strictly. Backlash: The One Show host, 39, issued an apology after footage emerged of her leaning out of the rear window dancing, without wearing a seat belt Bring it on: The pair are set to perform the jive to Trouble by Shampoo for Strictly's first live show on Saturday Preparations: Seemingly putting the week's drama to one side, Angela focused on rehearsing Saturday's upcoming dance High spirits: Jody Cundy and Jowita Pryzstal smiled as they left BBC Breakfast studios in Manchester Time to practice: Les Dennis looked ready to get his dancing shoes on Prep: Nancy Xu still had her rollers in as she headed to rehearsals Beaming: Professional dancer Nancy Xu spotted leaving rehearsals with a tired looking Les Dennis following on behind Talented: Nigel Harman is hoping to keep his place at the top of the leaderboard after impressing with his Pasa Doble On cloud nine: Nigel's partner Katya Jones flashed a smile as she headed to rehearsals Shattered: Les looking exhausted after a long dance rehearsal Impressive: Angela made a promising start on her Strictly debut last Saturday, earning praise from the judges for her Tango routine to Miley Cyrus track, Prisoner 'But leaning out of a moving car is incredibly dangerous and she should know better. 'Her place on Strictly won't be at threat but she'll be warned about her behaviour going forward.' Nick Simmons, CEO of RoadPeace, the national charity for road crash victims, said: 'Every day on the UK's roads, around five people are killed and more than 60 people are seriously injured. 'Driving is a privilege, not a right. With that privilege, comes a great deal of responsibility for safety, but sadly, many road users overlook this important fact. 'It is very disappointing when celebrities, who have a significant influence on others, behave in a way that does not acknowledge the importance of using the roads safely and of the huge risks posed by distracted driving.' A spokesman for Hertfordshire Police said: 'Hertfordshire Police have received a report from a member of the public about a woman not wearing a seatbelt in a moving vehicle in Borehamwood.' Angela made a promising start on her Strictly debut last Saturday, earning praise from the judges for her Tango routine to Miley Cyrus track, Prisoner. Anton de Beke said: 'The drama, the intense, the commitment was magnificent.' And Craig Revel Horwood added that although her arms were 'a tiny bit loose,' Angela's attack moments were 'fantastic'. Eastenders actor Nigel Harman and dance partner Katya Jones were spotted leaving the dance studios looking eagle eyed. Katya donned a polka dot skin tight leotard paired with a bright orange gilet. Focused: Eastenders actor Nigel Harman and dance partner Katya Jones were spotted leaving the dance studios looking eagle eyed David Walliams was seen for the first time on Thursday after it was revealed that he is suing Britain's Got Talent for 'allowing details details of his X-rated rant about contestants to be leaked'. The star, 52, looked tense during a coffee out in north London with Barbara Windsor's widower Scott Mitchell. The comedian is seeking significant damages from London-based Fremantle, which produces the reality series for ITV, with legal paperwork suggesting he is accusing bosses of allowing details of his rude comments to be leaked to a newspaper. Court papers lodged at the High Court in London last Thursday, under his real name of David Williams, accuse the firm of data protection breach over the leaked transcript which prompted a swift end to his ten year long stint as a judge on the show. Walliams, who is worth around 17million, quit the show last November, two weeks after he was caught calling an elderly contestant a 'c***' during a break in filming. Emerging: David Walliams was seen for the first time on Thursday after it was revealed that he is suing Britain's Got Talent for 'leaking details of his X-rated rant about contestants' Catching up: The star, 52, looked tense during a coffee out in north London with Barbara Windsor 's widower Scott Mitchell He was also heard disparaging a female contestant, calling her a 'slightly boring girl you meet in the pub that thinks you want to f*** them, but you don't'. Comedian Clare Harrison Mccartney later claimed these comments were about her and branded Walliams a 'sad misogynist', but producers on the show denied the remarks were aimed at her. On the outing he dressed down in a grey jumper and navy tracksuit bottoms as he spoke with friend Scott, 60, at the outdoor cafe. It comes after it was revealed that David and Simon Cowell's friendship appears to be on the rocks as the comic sues his former bosses at BGT - ten months after he was axed from his 1.5million-a-year role as a judge. While Walliams is not suing the programme's boss Simon, it is understood that there is now 'some distance' between the two men, according to sources close to them both. Bruno Tonioli later took over from him on the talent show, signing a big money deal. A source told The Sun about David's decision to leave at the time: 'He hasn't taken the decision lightly, but it just feels like time to move on.' 'David has decided to bow out after a ten-year run. He wants to leave on a high after a wonderful time. Out and about: On the outing he dressed down in a grey jumper and navy tracksuit bottoms as he spoke with friend Scott, 60, at the outdoor cafe Coffee: He covered his eyes with dark shades as they sat at the cafe before walking off down the street with his dog on a lead Difficult: The comedian is seeking significant damages from London-based Fremantle, which produces the reality series for ITV, with legal paperwork suggesting he is accusing bosses of leaking details of his rude comments to a newspaper Legal action: Court papers lodged at the High Court in London last Thursday, under his real name of David Williams, accuse the firm of data protection breach over the leaked transcript which prompted a swift end to ten year long stint as a judge on the show 'His team have quietly been having conversations over the past few days where it has been made clear that David is readying himself to step down and then producers will start to think about who might replace him.' The star has hired legal company Brandsmiths, who specialise in data protection breaches. Reports earlier this year claimed that Walliams quit BGT after the lewd and rude comments which he made during filming the show at the London Palladium in 2020 were exposed. However, sources at the time suggested that he was actually pushed after a crisis management team was drafted in by Fremantle to manage the scandal which led to the former Little Britain comic apologising. The comments, made in January 2020 during auditions at the London Palladium, were picked up on the programme's microphones. He and his lawyers argued at the time that they were private conversations that were never intended for broadcast but two weeks later he was ousted. In one incident, an older performer engaged in light-hearted banter with the judges in which he made a jibe about Walliams, an expose by The Guardian claimed. After the audition, the pensioner left, after which Walliams is said to have described him as a 'c**t' three times. In a separate incident, after a female contestant had walked off stage, Walliams remarked: 'She's like the slightly boring girl you meet in the pub that thinks you want to f*** them, but you don't.' He later added: 'I know, she's just like: 'Oh, f*** off!' I was saying, she thinks you want to f*** her, but you don't. 'It's the last thing on your mind, but she's like: 'Yep, I bet you do!' 'No I don't! I had a bit of a b***r, but now it's going, it's now shrivelled up inside my body.' A comedian and impressionist who appeared on the show in 2020 claimed the remarks made by Walliams were about her. Clare Harrison Mccartney initially retweeted criticism of Walliams, but then posted on Twitter: 'Those comments from #DavidWalliams were about me in this audition. I certainly wasn't putting out f-me vibes to David Walliams, that's in his mind. What a misogynist thinking all women fancy him.' She added: 'As if I didn't feel low enough after that audition and he's implying I fancied him - don't flatter yourself Walliams. I only went on BGT to try for a better life because I'm skint in a council flat, you sad misogynist.' It is not clear how Ms Harrison Mccartney would have known she was the target of the remarks, and a spokeswoman for Fremantle UK denied they were about her. After the transcript was released a source at Britain's Got Talent told the Mail it 'could not have come at a worse time' for Walliams as his deal to return to the show had not been finalised. They added: 'David's remarks have now become a huge part of the conversation. 'He hasn't signed any deal yet which has come as a relief because now there are options. 'It is a family show and this isn't just a negative thing to happen, it is offensive to people.' Walliams, one of the UK's best-known television personalities and children's book authors, was forced to apologise for his outbursts - but insisted that they were private conversations. In a statement given to the Guardian after the transcripts were revealed, Walliams said: 'I would like to apologise to the people I made disrespectful comments about during breaks in filming for Britain's Got Talent in 2020. Not good: Walliams, who is worth around 17million, quit the show last November, two weeks after he was caught calling an elderly contestant a 'c***' during a break in filming Courts: The comedian and author is now set to sue the show's producers over an alleged data breach, according to reports Having her say: Comedian Clare Harrison McCartney (pictured) claimed she was the subject of the these remarks, although this has been denied by BGT producers Team: It comes after it was revealed that David and Simon Cowell 's friendship appears to be on the rocks as the comic sues his former bosses at BGT - ten months after he was axed from his 1.5million-a-year role as a judge (seen with judges Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden) 'These were private conversations and like most conversations with friends were never intended to be shared. Nevertheless, I am sorry.' However, it was confirmed weeks later that he would not be returning to the show. ITV said at the time that it did not 'condone' the language used and had spoken to producers of BGT. Walliams, who joined the talent show in 2012 and scooped three Best Judge honours at the National TV Awards, was later replaced by former Strictly judge Bruno Tonioli. Fremantle declined to comment. Whoopi, 67, begged the panel to 'listen' as everyone spoke over one another Whoopi Goldberg was forced to tell Alyssa Farah Griffin to 'listen' during Thursday's edition of The View as the panel erupted into chaos during another fiery political debate. Whoopi, 67, was clearly frustrated as Alyssa, 34, and her other co-hosts Sara Haines, Joy Behar, and Sunny Hostin shouted over one another as they discussed the Republican presidential debate, which took place on September 27. After letting Sunny and Alyssa battle it out for a minute or so, the Sister Act star decided to speak up and told the panel, 'I've been quiet for everybody,' and was clearly annoyed with her co-stars raising their voices. Alyssa was also left irked by the debate as she kept glancing over at executive producer Brian Teta each time someone interrupted her, and when she finally got a chance to speak, she was fuming when the theme tune started playing as the show prepared to cut to a commercial break. The former White House aide appeared to be on a roll as she defended former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, but she looked so fed up when the music started playing mid-sentence as she told the panel: 'I had a lot more to say!' Whoopi Goldberg yelled at her co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin to 'listen' during Thursday's edition of The View as the panel descended into chaos during a discussion about last night's debate Alyssa, 34, spoke rather passionately about Wednesday's Republican political debate The hosts kept speaking over one another as they attempted to share their opinions The camera immediately cut to Whoopi, who gave Alyssa a look and then replied sarcastically: 'Unfortunately, it's only an hour show so we can't do that.' Nikki Haley was certainly a bone of contention among the panel as Sunny, 54, branded her a 'hypocrite' while Alyssa argued that her fellow Republican had laid out decent policies and ideas at the debate. 'Here's my problem with Nikki Haley... when people say, "Well what have you done?" I wanted to know what she had done, really. What policies at the U.N. because that's her,' Whoopi said as Alyssa interrupted her and claimed: 'She's a successful two-term governor.' But Whoopi was having none of it and retaliated: 'Wait a minute! She was an okay governor, she wasn't a great governor, and you may think she's the cat's meow, I do not! 'So when I listen to her, I want to hear somebody say, "And here's what we're going to do..."' Whoopi continued as Alyssa fired back: 'Did you guys all watch it? I thought she did that!' Confirming that she did watch the debate on television, Whoopi responded: 'Listen, I listen to Republicans, listen, I've been sitting listening to you and I've been quiet for everybody so I'm just saying...' as Alyssa butted in again and said: 'Yeah, you do listen to everyone, you do.' Determined to finish her piece, Whoopi added: 'I try and I didn't hear the thing I needed to hear as an American, which is, what are you going to do about this and this? I don't want to know about the wars, the culture wars, I don't wanna hear anybody else talking about culture wars...' 'She didn't bring it up...' Alyssa said under her breath, but Whoopi didn't miss a trick and fired back: 'The whole panel talked about culture wars, and that's the problem for me.' Sunny Hostin looked visibly annoyed when Sara Haines and Alyssa tried to interrupt her The hosts repeatedly spoke over one another as they all tried to air their personal opinions about the candidates' performance at the Republican debate The View hosts spoke a lot about former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley The show then cut to a commercial break, but when it returned, the panel were still discussing the Republican debate and still shouting over one another. Mom-of-two Sunny hit out at Nikki again and argued that 'fracking is a huge climate change problem', and when Sara and Alyssa attempted to interrupt, she refused to let them. 'If I could finish... the other thing about Nikki Haley is when she was governor, I agree with you Whoopi, I don't think she did such a great governorship job, especially because she's a flip-flopper. That's why I call her a hypocrite.' Alyssa then piped up again and announced: 'We have to have a battle of ideas and I think that there is something better for this country than Donald Trump versus Joe Biden again. Nikki Haley is the closest for me.' When Joy asked what Nikki's position is on Ukraine, Alyssa replied immediately and argued she 'wants to help them win the war against Russia' but as she continued chatting away, The View theme tune started playing and stopped her in her tracks. Throwing her hands up in frustration, Alyssa glanced over at the show's executive producer Brian as Joy told her: 'Go ahead, finish your sentence,' but Alyssa refused and claimed she 'had a lot more to say'. The friction between the hosts didn't go unnoticed and viewers swiftly took to X - formerly known as Twitter - to share their thoughts. 'Whoopi needs to check Alyssa. I am sick of her condensing tone she exhibits to Sunny and she doesn't respect Whoopi at all. #enough #TheView,' one person fumed. Viewers accused former White House aide Alyssa of 'talking over everyone' during the debate It's not the first time that Sunny and Alyssa have butted heads over politics Another posted: 'They have to tell Alyssa to stop. She is trying to talk over everyone. You would think Nikki Haley is her mother with the way she is defending her. Let ppl have their own opinions #TheView.' A third viewer commented: 'AFG talking over everyone and pushing her Republican bullsh*t. #TheView,' while a fourth simply said: 'Yes, speak on it Whoopi #TheView.' It comes just days after Whoopi compared Donald Trump's supporters and former employees to members of a 'cult' during a heated interview with his ex-White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson. Cassidy, 27, who worked in the White House and was also an assistant to former Chief of Staff Mark Meadows during the Trump administration, faced tough questions from panel on Tuesday over her decision to go to the former President's Mar-a-Lago resort after the January 6 attack on the Capitol Building. Advertisement Dane Cook, 51, and his much younger wife Kelsi Taylor, 24, have enjoyed a romantic honeymoon this week. The stars took to Instagram to reveal they were having fun taking in the tropical beauty of Oahu, Hawaii for their first few days of wedded bliss. Cook was seen in his swim trunks as he cuddled up to his new spouse who had a newlywed glow. The Employee Of The Month star also got very mushy when talking about how much he loves being married. 'I woke up a married man. Ive never felt this feeling in my life. A wife I love, a career I adore, a past Im right with & a future I cant wait to charge towards,' the actor said in his Instagram caption. 'I thought a lot about the road Ive traveled as I looked out at the ocean waves crashing off the rocks. I believe the early fears and concerns were what fearlessness and completion look like when youre heart becomes invested in this life. 'I found a purpose alone and now I have a purpose with,' said the Good Luck Chuck star. Hot honeymoon: Dane Cook, 51, and his much younger wife Kelsi Taylor, 24, have enjoyed a romantic honeymoon this week. The stars took to Instagram to reveal they were enjoying a the tropical beauty of Oahu, Hawaii for their first few days of wedded bliss A nice view: Cook was seen in his swim trunks and he was also seen cuddled up to his new spouse who had a new wife glow. The Employee Of The Month star also got very mushy when talking about how much he loves being married He had more to say. 'I am grateful for these new memories. I wont lie.. this morning hit different. These waves crashing off the rocks and back into the bright blue sea.' The romantic star also shared another post with new photos as he wrote, 'Just a bunch of pix I think are rad from this weekend. Not tagging anything bc Im lazy from the sun all day. Except my wife @itskelsitaylor of course.' The wedding took place on Saturday at a private estate in Oahu, Hawaii. There were only 20 guests at the outdoor ceremony. Fitness instructor Kelsi looked elegant in a white gown with a veil as she held onto a bouquet in photos the couple shared to Instagram. And Dane was dapper in a dark blue suit with tie. 'We chose Hawaii because it has such a special place in our hearts and our relationship,' Cook told People. 'It was one of the first trips we ever went on together and we continue to go back often. Its such an oasis, and we couldnt be more excited to have spent our wedding week surrounded by the beauty of Oahu.' Happy at last: 'I woke up a married man. Ive never felt this feeling in my life. A wife I love, a career I adore, a past Im right with & a future I cant wait to charge towards,' the actor said in his Instagram caption Filled with joy: 'I thought a lot about the road Ive traveled as I looked out at the ocean waves crashing off the rocks. I believe the early fears and concerns were what fearlessness and completion look like when youre heart becomes invested in this life. 'I found a purpose alone and now I have a purpose with,' he said The good life: He had more to say. 'I am grateful for these new memories. I wont lie.. this morning hit different. These waves crashing off the rocks and back into the bright blue sea' Bliss: The romantic star also shared, 'Just a bunch of pix I think are rad from this weekend. Not tagging anything bc Im lazy from the sun all day. Except my wife @itskelsitaylor of course' 'We envisioned something that was more along the lines of a gathering of our closest family and friends,' he said. Something intimate, connected, and filled with fun. 'We decided to do a full week vacation with a wedding right in the middle, and we wouldnt want it any other way! Nothing better than spending this special time with all of our favorite people,' added Cook. She wore the Solstice Gown from Grace Loves Lace, a Grace veil and clear heels from Amina Muaddi. 'It was one of the first dresses I tried on, and I immediately fell in love with it,' she shared with People. 'Theres just something about the simplicity and comfort of it and the beautiful stitching design and detail. So happy to have found this gem!' She walked down the aisle to Marry Me by Train. 'Every time I heard this song it made me so emotional. I knew it was the pick for the ceremony,' she said. Last year he said that their impending marriage had added a new marital dimension to his popular shows during an interview with E! News at the premiere of his new special Dane Cook: Above It All. Man and wife: The wedding took place on Saturday at a private estate in Oahu, Hawaii . There were only 20 guests at the outdoor ceremony The actor and comic revealed that Kelsi has been the first person to hear and respond to some of his newest jokes. 'She saw everything that I was working on for the show,' he explained. 'And she was like, "Keep that in. I think that part will be great." There's even some fun at our own expense.' He was referring to the 27-year age gap between the two lovebirds, which comes up in the course of his latest set. 'We have a bit of an age difference, so it's in the show, it's in the show,' he admitted. 'If we can't laugh at it, then nobody else is allowed.' Kelsi is only 23 now, but the two had already been together for five years when he popped the question. They just click: Last year he shared this photo where they were arm in arm; he has said the age difference doesn't matter Dane and Kelsi were making a return trip in July of this year to Maine's York Beach, which had been the location of their first trip together as a couple in 2017, when he took the opportunity to pop the question. Although the Mr. Brooks actor made his name with a particularly raunchy style of humor, he said he thought married life would transform his stand-up shows. 'I was just trying some material out on her the other day where I was like, "Hey, I think I have maybe my first what-it's-like-to-be-married joke,"' he shared. 'So, she got the exclusive. We tried it out and she said, "I approve of that. That's a good one."' He added he expected the new material would suit the new generations of fans showing up at his concerts. 'I think it'll change it in the way that I would always hope growing up with a generation of comedy fans. I was a college kid talking to, you know, college-age students. And to grow up with a generation of comedy fans, their kids are now coming to my show. I'm family oriented and to be looking at that with Kelsey and our future and family, it's like, all feels like the right timing.' Dane said married life would change his material. 'I was just trying some material out on her the other day where I was like, "Hey, I think I have maybe my first what-it's-like-to-be-married joke,"' he shared; seen in 2022 Before she said I do: The beauty was seen in a short white dress with a sash before the big wedding day Dane previously told People that he 'was so ready to ask' Kelsi to marry him. 'I was completely zen about it,' he said. 'The evening of the proposal was incredibly beautiful, the weather was perfect, sunset was spectacular, and I was just quite simply very happy.' The stand-up star was previously linked to high-profile women who were closer in age to him, including Jessica Simpson, 42, and Nicole Scherzinger, 44. Dane's latest special, Above It All, which was filmed from on his home's porch in Los Angeles, will begin streaming on October 5 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, with a replay available to watch for 14 days. Arnold Schwarzenegger has opened up about his unconventional parenting discipline methods - which included burning his daughter's shoes in a fire - in a candid new chat The action icon, 76 - who is dad to five children - Katherine, 33, Christina, 31, Patrick, 30 and Christopher, 26 with ex Maria Shriver and Joseph Baena, 25, from his affair with housekeeper Mildred Baena - said his 'bossy and tough' approach has worked wonders in raising well-rounded kids. He revealed he once burned Katherine's shoes in the fire in front of her after she failed to put them away multiple times, telling People: 'As a matter of fact, Katherine comes over with (her 3-year-old daughter) Lyla and she says, "Lyla, I told you already not to put the shoes there. 'Keep your shoes on or you put them away, but you don't leave them there by the stand in front of the fireplace because you know what Daddy did? When I left my shoes there twice? The third time, he burned them in front of me and I cried.' Adding that his daughter now uses the same methods she 'cried and complained over', he also recalled an incident when he threw son Patrick's mattress off a balcony after he failed to make his bed, Candid: Arnold Schwarzenegger has opened up about his unconventional parenting discipline methods - which included burning his daughter's shoes in a fire - in a candid new chat Dad of five: The action icon, 76 - shares four children- Katherine, 33, Christina, 31, Patrick, 30 and Christopher, 26 with ex Maria Shriver The Terminator star recalled: 'I opened up the door to the balcony, picked up the mattress and threw it down with the bedsheets, the pillows, everything. I said, "don't ever make someone come in and clean your room, clean your shower or make your bed", I said, "Because I taught you how to make the bed."' The father and son also dueled over the latter's penchant for long, hot showers, with the star revealing he told Patrick he was allowed five minutes in the shower before it was turned off. Schwarzenegger hilariously revealed that he acquired a shower with a timer to turn the hot water off - with Patrick attempting to take a longer shower when his father wasn't around - to no avail. He said: 'And so when he got the shower on and he was whistling and singing in there and thinking Daddy's not around, all the sudden the ice-cold shower came on. And all of a sudden, we heard downstairs, the scream.' The star said Katherine now loves telling other people about how 'bossy' he was when they were growing up - and noted his parenting style was influenced by the fact he grew up 'with nothing' in Austria. The Expendables star said his discipline had paid off as Katherine and husband Chris Pratt have an 'immaculate' home with 'no kind of sloppiness there at all.' Arnold and Maria separated in 2011 after it was revealed that the Predator star had fathered Joseph with his family's former housekeeper, Mildred Baena. The actor also recalled that he, as well as his former wife, decided to focus on the well-being of their children following their separation. Lol: Arnie also recalled an incident when he threw son Patrick's mattress off a balcony after he failed to make his bed Family: The actor also has a son Joseph Baena, 25, who was the result of an extramarital affair he had with his family's former housekeeper Mildred Patricia 'Patty' Baena Lol: The father and son also dueled over the latter's penchant for long, hot showers, with the star revealing he told Patrick he was allowed five minutes in the shower before it was turned off (pictured September 2022) Paid off: The Expendables star said his discipline had paid off as Katherine and husband Chris Pratt have an 'immaculate' home with 'no kind of sloppiness there at all' (pictured September 2023) 'She said, "Okay, this is what it is," and then she decided to make a split, so it was her decision. But the fact is, we always made it very clear that the kids should not suffer because of that,' he recalled. Schwarzenegger went on to speak about his current relationship with Shriver and stated: 'Everything is kind of just as if we're together but we have separate lives.' He added that his former wife 'has her things, her relationship, I have mine, but we always communicate about the kids, about the holidays.' The former Governor of California has since moved on with Heather Milligan, whom he initially met in 2012. The happy couple initially began seeing each other in 2013, although they did not make their red carpet debut for two more years. Paris Fashion Week has brought out the best and brightest of America's modeling beauties. Hailey Bieber joined the ranks on Thursday as she was spotted looking like she just stepped off the runway in a chic ensemble. Rocking a fabulous grey mini skirt for the gorgeous day out in the City of Lights, the wife of Justin Bieber was an absolute stunner. The sleeveless number showed off her toned arms as her gorgeous gams were on full display as well. The daughter of Stephen Baldwin paired the look with a set of designer shades as she held her trademark sandy blonde tresses back in a loose bun. Parisian beauty: Hailey Bieber was spotted looking like she just stepped off the runway in a chic ensemble for Paris Fashion Week Hailey took to her Instagram the day before to showcase her natural beauty in a pale pink satin dress from Tory Burch. The 26-year-old star - who goes by Hailey Rhode Baldwin Bieber - added white socks and black Mary Jane style shoes, before adding a velvet bow from Jennifer Behr to her hair. She added a set of bangle bracelets to complete the look and set off her natural beauty with a smoky eye and dab of red lipstick. The BFF of Kendall Jenner has been hitting up Paris Fashion Week to promote her skincare line Rhodes. She kicked off her skincare venture in 2022 and has remained the brand's creative head from its inception. Hailey has actively participated in its marketing, including being featured in numerous promotional photos during the past year. She recently spoke to Forbes to speak about the inspiration behind her new line of products. 'I think that skincare and beauty should be fun, and these tints are meant to be playful,' she said. Meanwhile, Hailey recently celebrated her fifth wedding anniversary with a trip to Japan with husband Justin. Stunner: Rocking a fabulous grey mini skirt for the gorgeous day out in the City of Lights, the wife of Justin Bieber was an absolute stunner Toned: The sleeveless number showed off her toned arms as her gorgeous gams were on full display as well Hailey and Justin enchanting love story has been a rollercoaster of emotions, starting in their teenage years. After a brief fling in 2015, they rekindled their romance in June 2018. The couple then became engaged in July 2018 during a picturesque getaway in the Bahamas. They exchanged vows in a secret courthouse ceremony in September of that year. This sighting comes after she looked like a pink cream puff in photos shared to Instagram on Tuesday morning. The star was pretty in a pale pink satin dress from Tory Burch as she showed off her toned and tanned legs when in France for business. Pinky: Bieber looked like a pink cream puff in photos shared to Instagram on Tuesday morning Belle of the streets: The siren was pretty in a pale pink satin dress from Tory Burch as she showed off her toned and tanned legs when in France for business Bieber added white socks and black Mary Jane style shoes, before adding a pretty velvet bow from Jennifer Behr to her hair. The daughter of actor Stephen Baldwin posed away while on the streets of Paris and in her hotel. The star was seen sipping tea, holding a laptop, applying lip gloss and lifting up a leg in the street in the photo share. 'Bonjour,' was all the cover girl wrote in her caption for her 50million Instagram followers. She has been in Paris for several days to plug her beauty line called Rhode, which is her middle name. Dame Helen Mirren looked nothing short of sensational as she attended the Golda premiere at Picturehouse Central in London on Thursday evening. The actress, 77, who plays the leading role of Israel's first female Prime Minister Golda Meir, cut a stylish figure in a black velvet suit. The star paired her look with a crisp white blouse and chic necktie. Elevating her enviable frame, she opted for a pair of black heels and and toted a black clutch bag in hand. Helen wore her blonde locks in a sleek straight style and accessorised with gold hoop earrings. Wow: Dame Helen Mirren looked nothing short of sensational as she attended the Golda premiere at Picturehouse Central in London on Thursday evening Chic: The actress, 77, who plays the leading role of Israel's first female Prime Minister Golda Meir, cut a stylish figure in a black velvet suit The 2023 biopic stars Dame Helen, who plays Israel's first - and only - female Prime Minister Golda Meir. Director Guy Nattivs film takes place during the 19-day Yom Kippur War of 1973, when Arab forces, led by Egypt, attacked Israel during its holiest time of the year. The film chronicles the controversial decisions that the politician made during the height of the war, which went on to see her country suffer huge losses in a battle with multiple Arab States. Golda was written by Nicholas Martin, who previously penned the whimsical film Florence Foster Jenkins, and will be directed by Guy, who previously helmed the Oscar-winning short film Skin. Dame Helen previously said of the role: 'Golda Meir was a formidable, intransigent and powerful leader. 'It is a great challenge to portray her at the most difficult moment of her extraordinary life. I only hope I do her justice!' Director Guy said: 'I have long been an admirer of the great Helen Mirren. She has melted so brilliantly into Golda Meir's character with incredible talent, intelligence, depth and emotion, doing justice to the richness and complexity of this incredible woman.' However Dame Helen, who was buried under layers of prosthetics for the film, has faced a torrent of abuse for taking up the role. Role: Golda Meir (pictured left) is portrayed by Helen (right) in the new biopic of her life Gorgeous: The star paired her look with a crisp white blouse and chic necktie Stylish: Elevating her enviable frame, she opted for a pair of black heels and and toted a black clutch bag in hand Beauty: Helen wore her blonde locks in a sleek straight style and accessorised with gold hoop earrings Under fire: Dame Helen, who was buried under layers of prosthetics for the film, has faced a torrent of abuse for taking up the role Fair: And Mirren says playing the leader despite having no off-screen connections to Judaism has been met with 'utterly legitimate' criticism from those who believe the role should have been passed to a Jewish actress She told the Daily Mail: 'It was certainly a question that I had, before I accepted the role. I said, "Look Guy, Im not Jewish, and if you want to think about that, and decide to go in a different directionI will absolutely understand"' Close: Helen held hands with film writer Nicholas Martin as they posed for photos together And Mirren says playing the leader despite having no off-screen connections to Judaism has been met with 'utterly legitimate' criticism from those who believe the role should have been passed to a Jewish actress. She told the Daily Mail: 'It was certainly a question that I had, before I accepted the role. I said, "Look Guy, Im not Jewish, and if you want to think about that, and decide to go in a different directionI will absolutely understand."' Mirren went through two to three hours of preparation a day to physically transform into the chain-smoking Meir as a 75-year old. 'Ive never done anything like that before,' she said. 'It was an adventure. I got so used to being that person in the daytime that when the makeup all came off and I saw myself as I am, Id forgotten that was what I looked like. 'Its that acting thingam I becoming her or is she becoming me? Theres a picture the crew made of me and Golda, and were in identical outfits. 'Shes turning to me and saying something, and Im looking forward with a cigarette. Its really powerful.' Born in Ukraine in 1898 before moving to the US as a child, Meir made history in 1969 as Israels first female prime minister. Powerful: Director Guy Nattivs film takes place during the 19-day Yom Kippur War of 1973, when Arab forces, led by Egypt , attacked Israel during its holiest time of the year (Pictured Golda Meir, seen on the day she resigned) In film: Mirren went through two to three hours of preparation a day to physically transform into the chain-smoking Meir as a 75-year old (pictured Helen in film) She soon provoked international controversy, saying: There were no such thing as Palestinians. Meir faced huge criticism in Israel for failing to adequately prepare for the threat of war, despite receiving word that Syrian forces were gathering for an attack. Following the backlash for her handling of the war, Meir announced her resignation in 1974. She died in 1978 aged 80. The film also stars Call My Agent! actress Camille Cottin as Meirs personal assistant and Israeli Lior Ashkenazi as her chief of staff. Golda will be released in cinemas across the UK on October 6. Kendall Jenner seems to be having the time of her life while in Paris this week. Ever day she has been spotted modeling fashion while walking on the picturesque streets of the Left Bank. And Thursday was no different as the Keeping Up With The Kardashians vet was seen in a chic and well tailored light gray blazer with matching mini skirt. The outfit showed off her very toned and long legs as she slipped into a pair of black chunky loafers. That same day Jenner, who is a size two, took to her Insta Stories to share a photo of her breakfast - a plate of chocolate crepes, orange juice and tea - serve on the balcony of her hotel room. Power suit - sort of: Kendall Jenner was seen in a chic and well tailored light gray blazer with matching mini skirt in Paris on Thursday It is a wonder she keeps her weight down, but the star is very healthy and works out often. It has been reported that she is 128lbs at near 6feet. The highest-paid US model looked svelte in the suit that looked like a modern twist on a 1940s classic as she left her fancy hotel. The smart blazer had a strong collar and a very fancy midsection as there was embroidery and the material gathered. The buttons were covered with the same gray fabric and the long sleeves were very fitted and ran down to her wrists. The skirt was a flirty pleated number with a very short hem. Jenner added sunglasses, silver hoop earrings and loafers as she carried a black leather unstructured handbag. She was seen crossing a street quickly as she looked dead ahead, appearing to be in a rush. Gray is good: The outfit showed off her very toned and long legs as she slipped into a pair of black chunky loafers Busy babe in France: Jenner added sunglasses, silver hoop earrings and loafers as she carried a black leather unstructured handbag. She was seen crossing a street quickly as she looked dead ahead, appearing to be in a rush Her breakfast was envy inducing. Kendall had a plate of three folded chocolate-filled crepes on a plate. There was also a pot of tea, a cup of tea, and a plate of sliced lemon. A glass of orange juice could also be spied with a carafe. The breakfast was resting on an outdoor glass table with chairs around it. This comes after fans have guessed Kendall's beau Bad Bunny has written a song for the Keeping Up With The Kardashians veteran. The Narcos: Mexico actor has released the song Un Preview which is all about how he has fallen in love with a cowgirl. In the past, Kendall has called herself a 'cowgirl' on Instagram as she has posed at a rodeo with a cowboy hat on. She is also an avid equestrian. And she recently posed with a horse for the new Stella McCartney campaign. Bon Appetit: Her breakfast was envy inducing. Kendall had a plate of three folded chocolate-filled crepes on a plate. There was also a pot of tea, a cup of tea, and a plate of sliced lemon. A glass of orange juice could also be spied with a carafe Healthy: It is a wonder she keeps her weight down, but the star is very healthy and works out often. It has been reported that she is 128lbs at near 6feet. Seen on The Kardashians on Wednesday So the theory seems to hold water. Also in the music video, a slender model is seen sitting atop a horse. She is wearing a nude dress, which is a signature Kardashian/Jenner look. The lyrics say a lot too. Bunny - born Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio - sings, 'Baby, Im not scared / Of trying you and falling in love again / F*** it, mami, I'll follow your lead, ayy / 'Really crazy in the club, I'll get close / dancing and kiss your neck, ayy / With you I'm on fire.' Also in the song, he sings about the great sex and being in love as dancers mimic sexual moves. This comes after Bunny insisted he doesn't need to 'clarify' to anyone if he's dating Kendall or not. The 29-year-old rapper, actor and occasional WWE wrestler refuses to confirm if he's romancing the 27-year-old reality star after they have been spotted together in public multiple times this year because he keeps his personal life private. It's love! Jenner seems to be the subject of beau Bad Bunny's new song titled Un Preview Kendall Clone: Fans think that the rapper from Puerto Rico has written a song dedicated to the Keeping Up With The Kardashians veteran. The Narcos: Mexico actor has released the song Un Preview which is all about how he has fallen in love with a cowgirl; clip from video Kenny: In the past, Kendall has called herself a 'cowgirl' on Instagram as she has posed at a rodeo with a cowboy hat on. Seen here with a horse for an ad Speaking to Vanity Fair magazine, he said: 'I'm not really interested in clarifying anything because I have no commitment to clarify anything to anyone. 'I am clear and my friend Jomar is clear and my mother is clear. 'They are the only ones to whom I have to clarify anything. 'As for Juliana Dominguez from Mississippi' - a random fan's name, I'm pretty sure - I have nothing I need to clarify to her. Never. About anything.' The 'Where She Goes' star insists that just because he is a celebrity, it doesn't mean he doesn't have the right to a private life. Bunny added: 'There are people who say that artists have to put up with it. 'I don't have to accept anything and everything because I wanted to be an artist. 'At the end of the day, you listen to me because you want to. I don't force you to.' Speaking on the rumours previously, he told Rolling Stone magazine; 'I know something is going to come out. I know [people are] going to say something. People know everything about me, so what's left for me to protect? 'My private life, my personal life.' Loved up: Bad Bunny and Kendall at Gucci Ancora during Milan Fashion week on September 22 in Milan, Italy Asked if there is anything he wants to clarify about his relationship status and romance with Kendall, the hitmaker insisted he wants to keep some parts of his life private. He added: 'That's the only answer. In the end, the only thing I have is my privacy.' When it comes to the huge interest in his personal life, Bunny - whose real name is Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio - acknowledged that his fans will 'always' be keen to 'know more'. He said: 'I keep living. Fans are always going to want to know more, but I don't focus on that. I'm always going to keep living my way.' Kylie Jenner sent temperatures soaring as she arrived at the Schiaparelli Haute couture Spring/Summer 2024 show during Paris Fashion Week on Thursday. The 26-year-old makeup mogul looked nothing short of sensational in a figure-hugging sparkly gold gown. Kylie flaunted her enviable frame and famous curves in the dress which was covered in silver sequins. She showcased her ample assets in the busty low-rise number and paired her look with nude heels mimicking the shape of toes. The star wore her brunette locks wavy and allowed them to cascade down her back. Wow! Kylie Jenner sent temperatures soaring as she arrived at the Schiaparelli Haute couture Spring/Summer 2024 show during Paris Fashion Week on Thursday Insane: The 26-year-old makeup mogul looked nothing short of sensational in a figure-hugging sparkly gold gown Also making an entrance, Jared Leto cut a stylish figure in a black padded vest with gold embossed buttons running down the middle. He added a black puffer jacket to his ensemble and wore simple black tailored trousers. The Oscar-winning actor and musician opted for a pair of shiny black shoes and accessorised with a statement gold necklace featuring half of a face. The star wore his long locks straight and showcased his purple dyed tips. Michelle Yeoh also made a show-stopping appearance to the show in an all-black ensemble. The Academy Award-winning actress, 61, stunned in a fitted black blazer and matching trousers. The chic set featured a clinch at the waist, showcasing her incredible figure, and gold buttons down the middle. She opted for quirky gold shoes, mimicking that of a solid gold foot. Incredible: Kylie flaunted her enviable frame and famous curves in the dress which was covered in silver sequins Funky feet: She paired her look with nude heels mimicking the shape of toes Big night: The star wore her brunette locks wavy and allowed them to cascade down her back Sensational: Kylie put her famous figure on full display for the evening Wow: She rocked a flawless palette of makeup including a swipe of pink lipstick Wow! Kylie looked equally phenomenal in photos shared with her Instagram followers She gave fans a closer look at her impeccable makeup as well as the intricate beading on her dress Adorable: She included a candid shot of the wind blowing her hair across her face For Tim? She snapped a sexy selfie in the back of a luxury vehicle en route to the show Bonded: She posed up with her model sister Kendall Jenner in some shots The glam duo looked closer than ever as they had a blast in front of the cameras Dapper: Also making an entrance, Jared Leto cut a stylish figure in a black padded vest with gold embossed buttons running down the middle Quirky: He added a black puffer jacket to his ensemble and wore simple black tailored trousers Different: The Oscar-winning actor and musician opted for a pair of shiny black shoes and accessorised with a statement gold necklace featuring half of a face Trendy: The star wore his long locks straight and showcased his purple dyed tips Beauty: Rosalia arrived in skin-tight black leggings and a gold and black blazer Racy: The beauty put on a racy display as she flashed her midriff and went braless under her top Finishing her look, she threw on a pair of black gloves with gold nails and orange-tinted sunglasses. The star appeared in good spirits as she waved to fans before heading inside for the show. Sabine Getty also looked gorgeous in a denim blazer and matching blue jeans. She wore huge gold earrings and carried a black bag over her shoulder. YouTube star Emma Chamberlain was bursting with happiness as she arrived at the star-studded show. The beauty opened for a shiny black jumpsuit with gold buttons running down the middle. She layered the look with a white blouse underneath and rolled the sleeves up to just below her elbows. Emma opted for a pair of black heels which she wore with white statement socks. The beauty clutched a black and gold bag in hand and flashed her silver and gold jewellery. Leonie Hanne was equally happy to be there as she made a flawless entrance in a black velour gown. Good spirits: Michelle Yeoh also made a show-stopping appearance to the show in an all-black ensemble Stunner: The Academy Award-winning actress, 61, stunned in a fitted black blazer and matching trousers Flattering: The chic set featured a clinch at the waist, showcasing her incredible figure, and gold buttons down the middle Different: She opted for quirky gold shoes, mimicking that of a solid gold foot Happy to be here: YouTube star Emma Chamberlain was bursting with happiness as she arrived at the star-studded show Chic: Sabine Getty also looked gorgeous in a denim blazer and matching blue jeans Statement: She wore huge gold earrings and carried a black bag over her shoulder Flawless: Leonie Hanne was equally happy to be there as she made a flawless entrance in a black velour gown Stunning: The flattering number featured a halterneck gold tie-up and flashed plenty of side boob The flattering number featured a halterneck gold tie-up and flashed plenty of side boob. She too sported quirky black shoes with gold toes. It comes after Kylie Jenner was seen without a diamond ring worn during a recent outing with her beau, Timothee Chalamet, in a video that was shared on Kylie Cosmetics' Instagram account on Wednesday morning. In the clip, the entrepreneur wore a body-hugging nude dress while promoting the release of her brand's new Power Plush Longwear Concealer by creating an ASMR video for her adoring fans. The mogul, who was recently with sister Kendall, remained without her sparkling ring while taping the video. Jenner was spotted with a diamond ring on her wedding finger on Tuesday in Paris with her movie star beau. The two have been dating since earlier this year. In the new clip Kylie had no ring on her wedding finger. But she did have several rings on her other fingers as she flashed a French manicure. Jenner wore her dark brunette locks down and she was made up with nude and pale pink tones. The entrepreneur admitted that she had 'been secretly wearing this concealer for, like, three years' during her first foray into ASMR videos, which are meant to elicit euphoric sensations from viewers. The reality television mainstay then began scraping her brand's concealer brush on her microphone and quipped: 'This is what it sounds like to paint my face.' The entrepreneur and Chalamet, 27, were first spotted in each other's company during Paris Fashion Week, which took place this past January. Keeping it off: It comes after Kylie Jenner was seen without a diamond ring worn during a recent outing with her beau, Timothee Chalamet , in a video that was shared on Kylie Cosmetics' Instagram account The reality television figure was previously in a long-term relationship with Travis Scott, with whom she shares her daughter Stormi, five, and son Aire, one. The Dune star was previously linked to various individuals, including Eiza Gonzalez and Lily-Rose Depp. Rumors about the relationship between Jenner and Chalamet first arose this past April, when her car was pictured in the driveway of his residence. A source subsequently spoke to People and told the media outlet that the two would 'hang out every week,' although they added that the pair's romance was 'not serious.' Jenner and Chalamet made their first public appearance as a couple during a Beyonce concert that took place earlier this month, where they were spotted while locking lips. Jennifer Lopez was spied in a large SUV in Santa Monica, California on Thursday. Her husband Ben Affleck in the driver's seat as his superstar wife rode shotgun in the large vehicle that had blacked-out windows. All that could be seen of Jennifer was her head as she wore her hair up and added large hoop earrings as she modeled a cream-colored top. Argo star Ben had on a dark button-down shirt with beige slacks and comfortable Nike sneakers. This comes after DailyMail.com's report that the Mother actress was instrumental in getting Ben to get on better terms with his ex-wife Jennifer Garner with whom he shares three children. Side by side: Jennifer Lopez was spied in a large SUV in Santa Monica, California on Thursday. Her husband Ben Affleck in the driver's seat as his superstar wife rode shotgun in the large vehicle that had blacked-out windows Jenny was here: All that could be seen of Jennifer was her head as she wore her hair up and added large hoop earrings as she modeled a cream-colored top Sam day: Also on Thursday Jennifer showed off her big hoops during a 'spa day' at home Affleck, 51, and Garner, also 51 share daughters Violet, 17, and Seraphina, 13, and son Samuel, 11. Now 'the drama of the past' and 'emotions' from their 'divorce' are 'long gone.' They were spotted looking extremely friendly with one another on Tuesday, eight years after they went their separate ways. The two stars tied the knot in 2005 but split 10 years later, and after they ended their marriage, Affleck reconciled with his former lover Lopez, 54, who he was engaged to back in the early 2000s, a few years before he met Garner. While outlets reported that the snaps of Affleck hanging out with his ex left Lopez 'absolutely furious,' a source close to the actor and the Jenny From the Block songstress told DailyMail.com exclusively that there are absolutely no ill will between the three of them, and that Lopez is in full support of their 'happy co-parenting' set-up. In fact, the insider claimed that it was actually Affleck's new romance with Lopez that ultimately helped him and Garner find peace. 'One of the things that made [Garner] and [Affleck] get to a better place was - and is - JLO,' they shared. Boston style: Argo star Ben had on a dark button-down shirt with beige slacks and comfortable Nike sneakers Better friends now: This comes after DailyMail.com's report that the Mother actress was instrumental in getting Ben to get on better terms with his ex-wife Jennifer Garner with whom he shares three children 'Ben is healthy. The drama of the past and the emotions of divorce are long gone and they are all making it work.' They added that Lopez and Garner are 'friendly' with one another and that all of their kids 'love each other.' 'It is really a very happy co-parenting situation,' dished the source. 'Everything is really good right now and should be the same in the near and distant future.' Closer Weekly reported that Affleck's recent meetup with Garner 'blindsided' a 'jealous' Lopez. However, a source told DailyMail.com said that couldn't be farther than the truth and that the Dazed and Confused star and the hitmaker, who tied the knot last July, are 'very much in love with each other' one year into their marriage. 'Their relationship is still on fire. They are really happy with each other, and there's no drama in their relationship right now at all,' they revealed. The story of two Jens: Jennifer Garner left in 2014 and Jennifer Lopez right in June They added that Lopez and Garner are 'friendly' with one another and that all of their kids 'love each other.' Garner is seen with their three kids in 2020 They added that while Affleck is looking forward to getting back to work as the writers and actors strikes come to an end, the couple has 'enjoyed' having extra time to spend together over the last few months. 'They want to get back to work and are looking forward to the strikes being over but they are also very much enjoying the more time they are spending with each other,' they continued. '[Affleck] is writing, JLO is writing music, so they still have outlets to create while they enjoy each other's time together.' The source explained that Lopez even turns to Affleck for advice on how to go about co-parenting with her ex, Marc Anthony, whom she shares 15-year-old twins, Maximilian 'Max' David Muniz and Emme Maribel Muniz with. 'JLO and Ben have had many talks about how she deals with [Anthony], and they all have been able to figure it out. It is actually inspiring and nice to see,' they said. Photographers caught Affleck and Garner meeting up in Los Angeles this week, before getting into his black Mercedes-Benz together. Better than ever: The power couple seems to be on great terms after celebrating their wedding anniversary; seen in May in Los Angeles JLo was just in NYC: Lopez at the Ralph Lauren Spring 2024 Ready To Wear Fashion Show at the Brooklyn Navy Yard on September 8 in Brooklyn Days earlier, they were seen sharing an affection moment together in his car. He was pictured leaning his head on the 13 Going on 30 star's shoulder as she gave him a hug. Affleck and Garner initially met while working on films such as Pearl Harbor and Daredevil, in which they costarred. Garner was previously married to Scott Foley, and their marriage lasted from 2000 until 2004. Following that split, the actress moved on with Affleck, with whom she tied the knot in Turks And Caicos in 2005. The pair started their family with Violet's birth, which took place that year, and they added Seraphina and Samuel to their family in 2009 and 2012, respectively. They remained together until 2015, when they announced that they had separated, although they waited for three years before finalizing their divorce. They are both known for their effortlessly chic sense of style. And Kelly Rowland and Shanina Shaik did not disappoint at the Christopher Esber spring summer collection during Paris Fashion Week. Kelly, 42, looked stunning in a figure hugging floor length dress with long sleeves and a sheer detail. Kelly accessorised with an elegant level of jewellery including hoop earrings and gold rings on both hands. The look was polished with a pair of gold heeled sandals. Style: Kelly Rowland and Shanina Shaik did not disappoint at the Christopher Esber spring summer collection during Paris Fashion Week Chic: Shanina, 32, donned a chic outfit made up of a denim coord featuring a button heavy waistcoat and flared jeans, all in an indigo shade Shanina, 32, donned a chic outfit made up of a denim coord featuring a button heavy waistcoat and flared jeans, all in an indigo shade. The buttons on the waistcoat are made from small fasteners which hold in place once twisted round. The outfit was kept classic with a pair of black court heels and a slouch style handbag. The Victoria's Secret model had her hair sleeked back and her make up kept minimal with a touch of contour on each cheek and a subtle smokey eye. Kelly was pictured watching the ready to wear collection alongside Beka Gvishiani, creator of Style Not Comm. According to Style Not Comm's Instagram page, when asked where she would wear the Christopher Esber clothes she responded with 'honestly, everywhere'. Kelly was beaming whilst behind the scenes at the show. Before the show, Shanina took to Instagram to post her morning glam. OOTD: Kelly, 42, looked stunning in a figure hugging floor length dress with long sleeves Sheer: The brown garment featured a sheer detail while Kelly also sported a pair of gold heels Glam: The Victoria's Secret model had her hair sleeked back and her make up kept minimal with a touch of contour on each cheek and a subtle smokey eye The model looks stunning after her make up has been freshly laid. Christopher Esber is an Australian fashion brand that launched in 2010 and according to Harpers Bazaar is a favourite amongst Hollywood stars Margot Robbie and Zendaya. This collection was Esber's debut for Paris Fashion Week. Previously the designed took to Instagram to share the date and time of the show alongside the caption 'Im excited to share this next chapter with you all. A dream come true'. Selfie: Before the show, Shanina took to Instagram to post her morning glam. The model looks stunning after her make up has been freshly laid Guest: Kelly was pictured watching the ready to wear collection alongside Beka Gvishiani, creator of Style Not Comm Accessories: The outfit was kept classic with a pair of black court heels and a slouch style handbag Drake put his $250million net worth to good use this week as he hit a strip club with giant Tupperware box filled with cash. The Rich Flex star, 36, embodied his superstar status as he was filmed watching the scantily-clad dancers at Onyx Gentleman's Club, Atlanta - while stood next to a plastic box filled with stacks of cash. The star appeared to be marking the 10 year anniversary of the night when he memorably brought $50,000 in dollar bills in a cardboard box to a strip club in Charlotte, North Carolina in March 2013- before throwing the cash at the dancers. The ostentatious display of wealth saw the happy Passionfruit hitmaker clad in a baggy sweater and trousers as he delved into the box of cash and appeared to count it - while watching some performances. The star was stood in a VIP area surrounded by pals as he prepared to throw money around. Rich Flex! Drake put his $250million net worth to good use this week as he hit a strip club with giant Tupperware box filled with cash Not his first time: The star appeared to be marking the 10 year anniversary of the night when he memorably brought $50,000 in dollar bills in a cardboard box to a strip club in Charlotte, North Carolina in March 2013- before throwing the cash at the dancers Back in 2013 Drake arrived at the Cameo nightclub with a huge entourage and a cardboard box filled to the brim with the cold hard cash. Pulling out bricks of the green and white paper money, he showered the dancers with the bills as he lived it up in the club. In November 2021 Drake went to a strip club a day after nine people were fatally-injured at Travis Scott's Astroworld concert in Houston. In posts dancers could be seen surrounded by cash at the Area 29 strip club in Houston. The club's posts said the snaps had been taken on Saturday, with Instagram star DJ Akademics claiming Drake has blown $1m on exotic performers while there. Instagram pictures also clearly show the floor of the club entirely covered in dollar bills. The since deleted post by the club thanked @champagnepapi which is Drakes Instagram account. The posting read: 'Thank u @champagnepapi @roddyricch @dontoliver @ubk.ent @lira_galore @realberniceburgos @realamarie @kayykilo @turkeyleghut @bookedbymolo last night vibes was on point GRAND FINALE TONIGHT SUNDAY FUNDAY.' The club wrote '2 floors covered with money and EVERY DANCER who worked last night went home happy thank y'all for the love and support WE RUNNING IT BACK 2 NIGHT ! @area29htx SUNDAY FUNDAY.' Wow: The Rich Flex star, 36, embodied his superstar status as he was filmed watching the scantily-clad dancers at Onyx Gentleman's Club, Atlanta - while stood next to a plastic box filled with stacks of cash Performance: The ostentatious display of wealth saw the happy Passionfruit hitmaker clad in a baggy sweater and trousers as he delved into the box of cash and appeared to count it - while watching some performances In November 2021 Drake went to a strip club a day after nine people were fatally-injured at Travis Scott 's Astroworld concert in Houston - and blew $1million (pictured 2018) In one now deleted clip seen earlier in the week, DJ Akademiks posted video of about nine dancers reveling as they count up their cash. A man shouts: 'Say thanks Drake!'. 'Thanks Drake!' the women reply. Drake is known to be a regular at the club and had visited the week before the tragedy, according to The Sun. Hailey Bieber shared a braless selfie to her Instagram. The wife of Justin Bieber, 26, wore a thin white cropped tee with low-slung black bottoms in the snap shared on Wednesday. Hailey added a black hoodie that she wore over her hair as she toted a hot coffee in her hands - as well as one of her Rhode Skin lip products. The entrepreneur donned a gold and diamond encrusted 'B' necklace - for her last name Bieber. The stunner added small framed sunglasses and gold hoop earrings to round out her casual look. Her braless snap was posted along with a series of snaps - and big news in regards to her career. Hailey, who is currently in Paris for Fashion Week, revealed that her brand Rhode Skin will now be available in France, Germany, Spain, Ireland and Italy - via shipping. Hailey Bieber shared a braless selfie to her Instagram on Wednesday Great news: Hailey revealed that her brand Rhode Skin will now be available in France , Germany , Spain , Ireland and Italy - via shipping The stunner also shared a number of stories rocking the same look, revealing her delicate black ballet flats with socks. She was holding a coffee and her Rhode Skin Peptide Lip Tint in Ribbon - her newest shade; it is available on her Rhodeskin.com website for $16. Rhode was only previously available to be shipping to all 50 US states, US territories, APO/FPO, Canada and the United Kingdom. Hailey founded the brand June 15, 2022. She has peptide lip tints that are currently available in shades: Ribbon, Raspberry Jelly, Toast and Espresso. Hailey has peptide lip treatments in Rhode Vanilla, Watermelon Slice, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Glaze and unscented. There is also the Glazing Milk, Peptide Glazing Fluid, the Barrier Restore Cream. Hailey also shared some promotional images from her expanding beauty and skincare brand - with the newest products being the Peptide Lip Tint. Looking great: The stunner also shared a number of stories rocking the same look, revealing her delicate black ballet flats with socks Beauty: The gorgeous star posted a closer up snap of herself Striking look: She also showed some behind the scenes images from her brand shoots for the new lip tint in Ribbon Views: Including a video of herself rocking rosy blush, pink glossed lips, a large pink scrunchie in her hair and gold and black sunglasses with statement earrings All in the details: She posed with her ballet shoes on; she grew up taking ballet and was a dancer for 12 years' The stunner showed off her brown tinted lip tint in a snap of herself as she enjoyed some espresso - in honor of the espresso hued lip product. The star wore sunglasses and a brown sweater for the brand photos. She also showed some behind the scenes images from her brand shoots for the new lip tint in Ribbon - including a video of herself rocking rosy blush, pink glossed lips, a large pink scrunchie in her hair and gold and black sunglasses with statement earrings. She posed with her ballet shoes on; she grew up taking ballet and was a dancer for 12 years.' The stunner shared more behind the scenes snaps including a picture of her ballet shoes - while wearing one sock only - with an added anklet. Hailey also sported a brown mini dress with thing white stripes in one snap, paired with socks and sneakers. She showed off her short brunette locks in the casual snap. Closer look: The espresso peptide lip tint pictured Products: She has peptide lip tints that are currently available in shades: Ribbon, Raspberry Jelly, Toast and Espresso Closer look: She shared a snap of the different hues: Espresso, Toast, Ribbon, Raspberry Jelly Fashionista: Hailey also sported a brown mini dress with thing white stripes in one snap, paired with socks and sneakers Business woman! Rhode was only previously available to be shipping to all 50 US states, US territories, APO/FPO, Canada and the United Kingdom. Hailey founded the brand June 15, 2022 What a lady: The model is currently in Paris for Paris Fashion Week. She attended the Saint Laurent Spring/Summer 2024 show on Tuesday night, sitting in the front row in between Kate Moss and Austin Butler; seen on September 26 at the Saint Laurent Ready To Wear Spring/Summer 2024 show held at Place Jacques Rueff in Paris, France The model is currently in Paris for Paris Fashion Week. She attended the Saint Laurent Ready to Wear Spring/Summer 2024 show on Tuesday night, sitting in the front row in between Kate Moss and Austin Butler. The brunette beauty dazzled in a backless black dress that featured long sleeves and a high-neck detail. Delta Air Lines 'probably went too far' with its clampdown on its reward program and access to airport lounges, CEO Ed Bastian has admitted. The carrier sparked a major backlash earlier this month when it announced plans to cap the number of entries to its lounges and tighten the qualifying criteria for customers to earn frequent flyer status. 'There will be modifications that we will make, and you will hear about it sometime over the next few weeks,' Bastian said at a Rotary Club of Atlanta event earlier this week. 'I think we moved too fast, and we are looking at it now,' he added. He did not offer specific details as to what changes might be made, or whether the airline plans to row back completely on the announcement. Delta Air Lines 'probably went too far' with its clampdown on its reward program and access to airport lounges, CEO Ed Bastian admitted It comes two weeks after the company announced a major overhaul, which Bastian said was designed to ensure Delta could serve all of its loyalty tiers at the level that is expected. 'Our team wanted to kind of rip the BandAid off and didnt want to have to keep going through this every year with changes and nickel and diming and whatnot, and I think we moved too fast,' he said on Monday. The firm announced that from February 1, 2025, travelers would have their access to the Atlanta-based airline's swanky Delta Sky Clubs cut to as little as six visits a year. Those who book a basic economy ticket will no longer be allowed into the lounge at all from January 1, 2024 - even if they hold an American Express Platinum card or any other premium credit card. From early 2025, American Express Platinum and Platinum Business cardholders will only be able to visit the Delta lounge six times a year to enjoy access to free meals and drinks and a space to relax before their flight. Delta Reserve and Delta Business Reserve customers will be limited to 10 visits a year, the company announced. Alongside the lounge cutbacks the company announced that from next year it will be more difficult to qualify for the airline's Medallion rewards program. The carrier sparked a major backlash earlier this month when it announced plans to cap the number of entries to its lounges and tighten the qualifying criteria for customers to earn frequent flyer status The changes came following issues with overcrowding at lounges (pictured: Delta Sky Club in Fort Lauderdale, Florida) In order to achieve the highest 'Diamond' status, customers will have to earn $35,000 in Medallion Qualifying Dollars (MQD), which can be built up through spending on Delta credit cards and booking car rentals or hotels through the airline. Formerly, passengers have been able to build up their points based on the number of miles they fly, but from 2024 their status will be based purely on how much money they spend with the airline. Upset customers flocked to social media to express their outrage at the plans, with one user describing it as the 'biggest middle finger yet.' Some furious American Express platinum credit card holders even threatened a boycott. The Platinum Card has become the most popular American Express product - despite its whopping $695 yearly fee - with access to lounges as one of its key perks. Those who book a basic economy ticket will no longer be allowed into the lounge at all from January 1, 2024, under the proposals announced earlier this month The changes came following issues with overcrowding at lounges at Delta's main travel hubs in Atlanta, Georgia, and New York City's JFK airport. Some of Delta's richest passengers have applauded the plans, however, saying they hope it will free up space and cut the number of upgrades available to lower spending passengers. 'I'm OK with it,' Georgia business owner Mike Kirkpatrick told the Wall Street Journal. 'It's making the upper tiers more exclusive like they should be to begin with. 'If the amount of people stick to their word and jump ship which I doubt they will then flight prices may go down and I can get more value to my miles.' The Australian 50 cent coin from 1988 is being advertised online as being worth $14,750. Aussies are being urged to check their pockets for a rare 50c coin that could be worth almost $15,000. The Australian 50c coin minted in 1988 contains a significant error by the Royal Australian Mint. During 1988, it was decided 50c coins would commemorate the 200th anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet, with the standard coat of arms being shelved. However, some coins slipped through the cracks, with the standard coat of arms printed on the coin as well as the 1988 date on its back. The coin was printed with the regular coat of arms. The rare coin, known as a mule, is worth almost $14,750, with Downies Collectables claiming there is only two of its kind. A mouth-watering opportunity to secure truly great decimal rarities one of the two known 1988 50c coat of arms proofs, the Downies Collectables website reads. As is customary, the creation of a special one-year-only 50c commemorative meant the standard Coat of Arms 50c was not struck for circulation and was naturally not included in the proof or mint sets of that year either. Therefore, no 1988 coins with a coat of arms should exist. However, the genuine mule error was created with the accidental union of mismatched obverse and reverse sides. The coin was supposed to be printed with the 200th anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet as pictured. Downies described it as a rarity of the highest order, with whoever comes across it taking their coin collection to unparalleled heights. Aussies are also being told to check their loose change for a $1 coin that could be worth up to $3000. Perth-based coin expert and numismatist Joel Kandiah urged his 129,000 TikTok followers to keep an eye out for the $1 coin minted in 2000 with an error that could fetch the owner anywhere between $300 to $3000 in online markets, contingent upon the coins condition. He explained that in 2003, coin collectors became aware of a significant error, where coins were mistakenly produced using the incorrect obverse die (the head side). The rare 2000 coins were printed with the Australian 10c obverse die. "Telecinco cancels Cuentos Chinos from today after not having obtained the expected results", this is the brief phrase with which the main Mediaset network has reported the end of Cuentos Chinos. The program by Jorge Javier Vazquez and La Fabrica de la Tele has only lasted three weeks. Although Mediaset was going to be "patient", with Cuentos Chinos patience has run out. If last week he announced the withdrawal of the program on Thursdays so as not to damage the start of GH VIP 8 with its low audiences, the bomb arrived this afternoon. Chinese Tales is over and it ended suddenly. The reason is none other than the poor ratings garnered by the program presented by Jorge Javier Vazquez and which marked not only the return of the presenter after several months of absence but also the return of La Fabrica de la Tele with a new format after the cancellation of Save me. After the announcement of the cancellation, Jorge Javier Vazquez spoke through From here my most sincere congratulations to Pablo Motos, Carlos Sobera and Wyoming." "Thank you and sorry for not having been able to find the key to your complicity. That is the shame that remains for me," the presenter wrote. The Tele Factory also wanted to say goodbye to the program, through a video with the best moments of it: "The colorful and story-telling republic of Cuentos Chinos closes its doors." The program will be replaced by GH VIP. Breaking news that will be presented by Lara Alvarez, who thus joins the cast of GH VIP 8 presenters, and will offer a selection of the most notable events of the coexistence of the protagonists of the reality show from Monday to Wednesday. Apparently GH Express will remain on Thursdays. Given the reality data, which has had several programs without exceeding one million viewers, it seems that Telecinco's objective is no longer to win but rather not to lose more audience. Cuentos Chinos arrived to try to take the reign of access time from El Hormiguero and Pablo Motos. A practically impossible task given the data and the strength of the ants. However, Cuentos Chinos not only failed to get close to El Hormiguero, but its data further sank the network's already damaged audience share. The average broadcast share in the 10 installments of Cuentos Chinos has been 7% with 912,000 viewers, below the network's usual average, which is a little more than 9%. Since the day of its premiere, when Cuentos Chinos achieved a 9.4% audience share, the highest in these three weeks, the program's audiences have been plummeting. In its first week, it reached a screen share of 7.6%, improving Telecinco's average in access by one point, but from then on the drop was already unsustainable. In its second week it dropped to 7% and its last program broadcast, this Wednesday, with Manuela Carmena as a guest, achieved a very poor 6.2% and 800,000 followers. Some data that the producer and Jorge Javier Vazquez himself were aware of. In fact, the presenter on his blog in Lecturas magazine this Tuesday already expressed how much this "back to school" was costing him. "When I listen to Shakira I think what a pleasure it is that a woman as apparently successful as her is able to verbalize such a prosaic reality. That's how I am now. Trying not to be swept away by the tide. Surviving. Protecting myself so that reality doesn't crush me. Playing to imagine that better times will come than the current ones, where there is too much uncertainty and even boredom. Going back to school is proving to be complicated, to say the least." The reasons why Cuentos Chinos was the first failure of the new Telecinco are many. First, a format that couldn't quite find its place. It started out as a program of sections and predictably interviews, but it was too chaotic. La Fabrica de la Tele tried to find its essence and came closer to a kind of Salvame with characters like Isa Pi, Isabel Pantoja's daughter, or more themes from the social chronicle, but it didn't work either. In addition, we must add other errors that escaped the program itself. "To earn a spot in the access slot it is very important to work on the start time of the program," television experts told this newspaper a few days ago. In the case of Cuentos Chinos, it was programmed to start later than El Hormiguero and with more advertising blocks, even matching the only long El Hormiguero advertisement with an advertisement for Cuentos Chinos, making it very difficult to attract any viewer from the Pablo Motos program. On television it is key when the ads appear in a program and for how long. For example, the first week of Cuentos Chinos only had one day to expose itself to the audience free of advertising, that is, without any stretch of advertisements. As this newspaper was able to verify, since its second Tuesday of broadcast it had the largest advertising break of the 10 p.m. In his very common 'trick' when it comes to programming, premieres, or when you want to beat your opponent. TardeAR, released on September 18, for example, was ad-free that entire week for its first 75 minutes. They are common strategies that Tierra Amarga or And Now Sonsoles already followed in their day, but that were not carried out with Cuentos Chinos. Last week, when he withdrew from the grid so as not to further hinder the GH VIP gala on Thursdays, the network aired GH VIP Express, but the results did not improve either. On September 14, the day of the premiere of GH VIP 8, Cuentos Chinos made an average of 7.4%; A week later and with Cuentos Chinos already off the Thursday schedule, GH VIP Express made the same screen quota. It is true that Cuentos Chinos' data was getting worse and worse and was below the average for the chain. However, it is a reality that of all the Telecinco premieres in this new season, few are working as expected. GH VIP 8 is below one million viewers; TardeAR this Wednesday marked a historic low since its premiere on September 18, falling below double digits (9.8%) and El musical de tu vida, although it improves the network's average by a few tenths, also fails to stand out. It seems, therefore, that the decision to abruptly cancel Cuentos Chinos has been rushed in an attempt to save and scratch a tenth more in Telecinco's screen share. After a stormy start between Giorgia Meloni and Emmanuel Macron, Franco-Italian relations seem to be on the path to warming, thanks to the same migration issue which had damaged them. An agreement of reason, summarizes historian Marc Lazar for AFP. They have fundamental political differences but for the moment, the two governments are trying to show that they are acting hand in hand in the face of their common challenges, a year, soon, after Giorgia Meloni took office. However, they had not started under the best auspices, the relations between the president of the Italian council, at the head of an ultraconservative coalition, and the French president, who claims to be frankly pro-European progressive. As soon as Ms. Meloni's victory in the legislative elections of September 2022, the Rome-Paris axis which had tightened under Mario Draghi had once again weakened. French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne had put Italy on notice to respect human rights and the right to abortion in Italy. A slap in the face for the new majority. In November, in line with Ms. Meloni's promises to "block" migrant landings, Italy triggered a diplomatic crisis by refusing to welcome the humanitarian ship Ocean Viking and the 230 people on board. France had let him dock while denouncing the unacceptable behavior of Rome. The following spring, the French Minister of the Interior Gerald Darmanin reignited the fuse by judging Giorgia Meloni "incapable of resolving the migration problems on which she was elected". In Italy, political reactions were violent. But quickly the two leaders decided to talk to each other, increasing the number of calls and bilateral interviews, as at the G7 in May in Japan. And it is the burning migration issue which, paradoxically, has come to play justice in recent weeks: in mid-September, 8,500 migrants landed in three days on the island of Lampedusa. Italian confetti located less than 150 km from the Tunisian coast, it represents one of the first stops for migrants crossing the Mediterranean hoping to reach Europe. Giorgia Meloni brings Ursula von der Leyen to the island who announces an emergency aid plan. In Paris, the tone is more conciliatory: Ms. Meloni calling on the European Union for help is a godsend. We cannot leave the Italians alone, pleads Emmanuel Macron. Same change of foot among the Italians. Traveling Monday evening in Paris, the head of Italian diplomacy Antonio Tajani expressed his satisfaction with French solidarity. According to some analysts, Brussels and Paris want to use their aid to Italy as a lever for Ms. Meloni to press her sovereignist allies, Hungary and Poland, to accelerate the reform of the Asylum and Immigration Pact. Italian criticism is now focused on Germany, accused of having temporarily stopped accepting migrants living in Italy, after Rome itself suspended European rules governing the distribution of migrants. Rome also criticizes Berlin for financing NGOs helping migrants in its country. For the center-left daily La Repubblica, Ms. Meloni, by challenging Germany, is seeking to "build an enemy" to better sell her desire for rapprochement with Brussels and Paris. The Franco-Italian thaw owes a lot to the calendar: Meloni and Macron want to demonstrate their ability to find solutions in the run-up to the 2024 European elections. Although adversaries in the Strasbourg Parliament, they intend to pose as pragmatic leaders, above the fray, facing their respective troublemakers, anchored to the extreme right, Matteo Salvini and Marine Le Pen, supporters of a hard line , national and nationalist to curb immigration. Mr. Salvini's Anti-Migrant League is a member of Ms. Meloni's government coalition and he himself is one of the two deputy prime ministers with Antonio Tajani. But the League sits with the National Rally in Strasbourg in the Identity and Democracy group, while Ms. Meloni's Fratelli d'Italia is part of the European Conservatives and Reformists. Beyond the migration issue, Italy and France share a strategy of support for Ukraine. They also defend, with Spain and against Germany and the so-called frugal countries, the same line on the stability pact. Which does not mean that there are not other areas of friction, for example in Africa, where Italy "wants to get its foot in the door" by taking advantage of the French decline, notes Marc Lazar. Adieu Francafrique, wrote the Turin newspaper La Stampa on Tuesday. 09/27/2023 07:45:27 - Rome (AFP) - 2023 AFP A Lancet study has established a connection between bacterial antibiotic resistance and air pollution; inhaling PM 2.5 can lead to antibiotic resistance There was a sense of palpable urgency to address climate change, air pollution and degradation of the environment at the recently concluded three-day G20 summit held in New Delhi. Led by India, the G20 nations agreed to urgently accelerate their actions to address environmental crises and climate change challenges with the help of a green development plan. This in a way reflects the prophetic warning to world leaders by the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at the 27th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP27) held in 2022, that humanity is on a highway to climate hell with a foot on the accelerator. Because 80 per cent of the worlds greenhouse gas emissions emanate from G20 nations, the member nations needed to understand the gravity of the problem and ensure meaningful progress in this regard. As the stakes for mankind keep rising thanks to rising pollution and climate change, keeping global average temperatures below 2 degrees centigrade alone may not be the urgent goal of the nations. Newer and more perilous problems are arising due to unabated pollution levels. A recent study published in the health journal Lancet has established a connection between bacterial antibiotic resistance and air pollution, particularly PM 2.5. The study suggests that PM 2.5 contains elements of antibiotic resistance, and inhaling this pollutant can lead to an increase in the spread of antibiotic resistance. The authors of the study aimed to estimate the global premature death toll caused by resistance to antibiotics due to PM 2.5 pollution. PM 2.5 refers to particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or smaller. These particles, consisting of solid and liquid elements, are of varying sizes, with some, like dust and soot, visible to the naked eye and others, such as PM 2.5, only observable under electron microscopes. Inhaling these pollutants can pose serious health risks, especially to the respiratory system. The Lancet study compared and analysed the PM 2.5 levels with levels of antibiotic resistance and made a disturbing discovery that the higher the pollutant level, the greater the antibiotic resistance. PM 2.5 are smaller than human hair and contains antibiotic resistance elements. As these pollutants travel through the ambient air, they disperse antibiotic resistance elements, which can then be inhaled by humans which in turn sets in motion the resistance. The concerning aspect is that antibiotic-resistant bacteria can withstand antibiotic treatments, rendering the drugs ineffective against them. Antibiotics are primarily used to eliminate microorganisms, especially bacteria, but resistant bacteria are impervious to their effects. The data for this research was collated from 116 countries utilising sources like ResistanceMap, the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control Surveillance Atlas, and the PLISA Health Information Platform. Overall, nine pathogens and 43 drugs were analysed. It was observed that the surge in antibiotic resistance among bacteria is largely attributed to the indiscriminate use of antibiotics. Repeated and widespread antibiotic usage can empower bacteria to develop resistance over time, often facilitated by Antibiotic Resistance Genes (ARGs). Pathogenic bacteria, responsible for infections and diseases, can acquire antibiotic resistance through ARGs in a process known as horizontal gene transfer. The Lancet health report concluded that the need of the hour is to address the PM2.5 levels. Without this, antibiotic resistance may increase by approximately 17%, with related deaths rising by 56% globally by 2050. Conversely, adhering to the World Health Organization's recommended PM 2.5 level of 5 g/m could lead to a 17% reduction in antibiotic resistance and a 23% decrease in deaths. But this is easier said than done. Of the worlds 30 cities with the worst air pollution, 21 are in India. Capital New Delhi is the worst with PM 2.5 being nearly 10 times higher than the World Health Organisation levels. According to the CleanAir organisation India sees 2 million early deaths and a loss of 95 billion to the economy due to PM 2.5. Given these bleak conditions, India needs to cover a lot of ground to rein in PM 2.5 levels while there is still time. The National Clean Air Program (NCAP) is a determined step in the right direction, but it needs more grit and resolve behind it if the initiative has to succeed. Some major steps are the need of the hour for India. Firstly, immediate curbs on ammonia release in farms are essential, this must be followed by a full ban on refuse burning. Apart from this rural brick kilns must be persuaded to shift to cleaner kiln-firing technologies. Urgent efforts also need to be made to convert coal-based power plants to clean energy, as this by itself will make a huge difference. To make this a reality, India must make a push for creating the correct financial architecture through investment funds with a dedicated green focus that can play an instrumental role in catalysing the growth of green industries and simultaneously addressing the twin problems of air pollution and climate change. These funds would combine a returns-driven strategy with the sustainability imperative and accelerate investment in green industries. Measures such as these can help India fight air pollution and prevent a calamitous future where common antibiotic efficacy is not held to ransom by polluted air. (The writer is a policy analyst; views are personal) Canada must not allow its soil to be used for anti-India activities A story of agents executing transnational operations, intelligence agencies sharing crucial information, backchannel diplomatic conversations, political instability and every chapter from a racy spy thriller is playing out for the world audience, with Canada and India in the lead for the past few weeks. In a hurried and perhaps half-baked allegation Canadian PM Justine Trudeau blamed Indian agencies for carrying out extra-territorial executions of Canadian citizens. India was quick to retort with a terse statement, which instead pointed out the long-standing issue of concern between the two countries in the form of Canada allowing Indian separatist groups to operate out of their country. The Indian statement said unequivocally We have seen and reject the statement of the Canadian Prime Minister in their Parliament, as also the statement by their Foreign Minister. Allegations of the Government of India's involvement in any act of violence in Canada are absurd and motivated. Similar allegations were made by the Canadian Prime Minister to our Prime Minister and were completely rejected. Such unsubstantiated allegations seek to shift the focus from Khalistan terrorists and extremists, who have been provided shelter in Canada and continue to threaten Indias sovereignty and territorial integrity. We reject any attempts to connect the Government of India to such developments. We urge the Government of Canada to take prompt and effective legal action against all anti-India elements operating from their soil. What is happening in the bilateral relationship is not a recent development but has been brewing for decades. Nearly forty years back India had demanded the extradition of a terrorist from Canada, responsible for one of the worst plane bombings in history, killing everyone on board an Air India flight. The several convicts responsible for the act of terror were never convicted by Canada, despite repeated inputs from India abandoning victims families chasing long winding court cases for decades. The reason Canada allows or even nurtures these anti-India forces on its soil leads through the corridors of domestic politics. Millions of Indians particularly from Punjab make a substantial chunk of the Canadian demography. While most of them earn an honest living and are peace-loving, some notorious elements have managed to sneak into Canada, working through well-oiled semi-government machinery. Over some time, these criminals and terrorists wanted by India, have managed to control important real estate through the Gurudwaras committees. These mafia-controlled gurudwaras also serve as a conduit for fulfilling the immigration dream of thousands of Punjab youth, working with their India handlers across Punjab and several other states of north India. The modus operandi for getting ground force for staging anti-India acts from Canadian soil starts with a letter issued by Indian handlers, about the youth facing discrimination, and persecution due to his religion, in India. This sets the ball rolling for the youth to get an easy Canadian citizenship, on mercy grounds and feeds into domestic political narratives. In the present case too, the trigger was PM Trudeaus falling political popularity. A few months back he accused China of meddling with domestic politics even as he was trying to warm up the India bilateral, through a trade deal. Canada understands the rising importance of India in the new global order, especially with China and Russia facing flak. It understands that a powerful, resilient, democratic India is important for a prosperous Indo-Pacific region, which indirectly translates to bringing more prosperity to its citizens. However, the domestic political concerns rise above geopolitics, and retaining the chair as PM seems more important for Trudeau at the moment. It may be argued that several news reports have pointed to US intelligence aid in Canadian allegations against India, however, the US knows which way the wind is blowing. (The writer is a policy analyst; views are personal) The makers of the Ranbir Kapoor-starrer "Animal" released the teaser of the upcoming film on Thursday on the occasion of the actor's 41st birthday. The pan-India film, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga of "Arjun Reddy" and "Kabir Singh" fame, also stars Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol and Rashmika Mandanna. The 2.26 minute-long teaser of the crime drama, shared on social media, appears to show Ranbir Kapoor and Anil Kapoor's characters in a troubled father-son relationship. "'Animal' is a cinematic wildfire that's sure to take you on a wild ride through a realm where thrill and passion collide," the makers said in a press release. In a previous interview with PTI, Ranbir Kapoor had called "Animal" a "new territory" for him. "It's a crime drama and a father-son story. It's something audiences don't expect me to do. It has got shades of grey. He is very alpha, again something I'm not. So, I'm looking forward to it," the actor had said. In the film, Mandanna stars opposite Ranbir Kapoor as his love interest and Deol plays his menacing enemy. Also starring Triptii Dimri, "Animal" arrives in cinema halls on December 1 in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam. The film is produced by Bhushan Kumar and Krishan Kumar's T-Series, Murad Khetani's Cine1 Studios, and Pranay Reddy Vanga's Bhadrakali Pictures. Operatives of Khalistani terrorist outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) painted pro-Khalistan graffiti in North Delhi on Wednesday, a month after defacing several Delhi Metro stations with similar slogans. According to the police, Delhi banega Khalistan and Khalistan Zindabad SFJ slogans were found painted on both sides of the Kashmiri Gate flyover connecting North Delhi and North East Delhi and at some other places. The Delhi Police removed the graffiti soon after they spotted it. Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the US-based Khalistani terrorist and chief of the SFJ, claimed responsibility for the illegal act and threatened to storm the Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on October 5. Khalistanis from Canada are in Delhi to avenge assassination of Nijjar, Pannun said in a statement. A case has been lodged under Section 153 of the IPC (Indian Penal Code) and the Delhi Prevention of Defacement of Public Property Act against unidentified miscreants and an investigation has been launched in this connection, an official said on the condition of anonymity. In a statement, the Delhi Police said, A video came to notice on September 27, wherein certain visuals showed defacement through graffiti. According to the signage boards visible in the video, an extensive search was conducted in the North District area, and graffiti was discovered on Yudhister Setu flyover, heading from Seelampur towards Kashmere Gate. An FIR has been filed under the relevant sections of the IPC and Delhi Prevention of Defacement of Public Property Act, and it is currently under investigation. It is being said the defacement of walls in the national Capital was in response to the raids conducted by the National Investigation Agency on Wednesday across Punjab, Haryana, Delhi-NCR, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh in three separate cases linked to the terror-gangster-smuggler nexus. The incident comes a month after similar pro-Khalistan slogans were sprayed on the walls of more than five Metro stations in the national Capital. Delhi Banega Khalistan and Khalistan Zindabad slogans were written on the walls. Similar slogans were also found on the walls of a Government school in Nangloi. The crackdown on Khalistan elements came amid diplomatic tensions between India and Canada over the killing of Khalistan terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Tensions escalated between India and Canada after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made a serious allegation regarding the potential involvement of Indian agents in the murder of Nijjar, a Khalistani extremist, in British Columbia on June 18. India had designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020. India has, however, strongly rejected Trudeaus allegations terming it as absurd and motivated and expelled a senior Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move to Ottawas expulsion of an Indian official over the case. | Besides the majestic Ram Lalla temple in Ayodhya, construction of a magnificent temple dedicated to Goddess Sita is underway. This endeavor is spearheaded by the Shri Sita Nivas Seva Trust, and so far 40 per cent of the construction work has been completed. On Wednesday, the second phase of construction commenced with Vedic rituals and the offering of traditional attire by head trustee Uday Prakash Singh. The upcoming phase will focus on the construction of the sanctum sanctorum, hall and circumambulation path within the temple premises. The temple is expected to be completed alongside the grand Ram temple by December. Trust chairman Mahant Avanish Das Maharaj said that it was a unanimous view of the trustees, that in addition to Lord Rams temple, a magnificent temple for Goddess Sita should also be built. That temple will be dedicated to Ram Lalla and this will be to Ma Sita, he said. Uday Prakash Singh elaborated that the commencement of this phase included an auspicious ceremony where a Brahmin priest was honoured with traditional attire, followed by a bhoj (communal meal). He further said that the temple complex would comprise 14 AC and 4 non-AC rooms, which would be offered free of charge to pilgrims. The temple would also provide continuous service to students and run various charitable activities alongside the ongoing temple construction. In attendance at this auspicious event were other prominent officials of the Trust, including treasurer Rakesh Singh Paliwal, vice-chairman Murli Dhar Pandey, secretary Aniruddh Pandey and several others. The construction of the Sita temple stands as a testament to the spiritual significance and devotion to Lord Ram and Goddess Sita in the hearts of the people of Ayodhya. As the city continues to witness the transformation of its spiritual landscape, the Sita Temples completion will further enrich the cultural and religious heritage of Ayodhya, welcoming devotees and travelers alike, Udai Prakash Singh added. The Coalition have put public servants under fire over the governments decision to block Qatars bid for more flights. Picture: NCA NewsWire / John Gass Transport Minister Catherine King has been asked to appear before the inquiry probing her decision to block Qatar Airways bid to increase their flight offerings. The invitation comes as Coalition senators were left exasperated after senior transport bureaucrats, who appeared before the inquiry on Thursday, were essentially gagged from answering critical questions about whether Qantas had been a factor in the decision. Senators Bridget McKenzie and Simon Birmingham have also doubled down on their vow to summons former Qantas chief Alan Joyce to appear before the committee and committed to use every possible lever available to them if he refused. Their demands came after the public servants told the inquiry that Ms King who is on leave was handed a brief from the transport and infrastructure department about the Qatari application in January but did not make a decision until July. Senator McKenzie said the evidence presented to the inquiry suggested Ms King was, in January, of a mind to approve those additional flights from Qatar. Transport Minister Catherine King has been invited to appear before the inquiry. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Martin Ollman Something changed, and that brief sat on minister Kings desk until July. For six months, no further consultations were done with affected parties, no information was sought by the department, Senator McKenzie said in a press conference. The government is shroud of secrecy around this decision, and the fact that it has gagged hardworking public servants from providing evidence to a public inquiry so that the Australian travelling public can understand why they made this decision is unconscionable. There are three people who can provide that level information about Qantass involvement the Transport Minister, the Prime Minister, and former CEO of Qantas, Alan Joyce. Senator Simon Birmingham and Senator Bridget McKenzie have vowed to bring Alan Joyce and Catherine King before the committee. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Martin Ollman The transport officials told senators that after Qatar Airways began the process of applying to almost double its capacity last August, Qantas and Virgin were invited to provide submissions. The inquiry was already told in earlier hearings that Qantas was opposed to the bid, while Virgin Australia a Qatar Airways partner was in favour. Story continues The department ultimately handed Ms Kings office a brief on the request on January 4. It was not until July 10 that Ms King rejected the request, despite Virgin boss Jayne Hrdlicka telling the inquiry a day earlier than when she met with the Transport Minister in mid-January it was her understanding that negotiations would be entered in to. The senators spent much of the morning trying to determine whether Ms King had been influenced by Qantas officials and whether she met with Mr Joyce, especially in the days after receiving the brief. Department officials could not answer any questions about the brief on Tuesday because Ms King had already claimed public interest immunity. Marisa Purvis-Smith from the Department of Industry and Transport came under fire during the senate inquiry. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Martin Ollman Its clear that the official process of government was completely shut down once the brief was sent to minister King And for six months it would lie in secrecy as she spoke to who? To Qantas? Probably. To the Prime Ministers office about his wishes? Probably. But we dont know that for sure because we cant get straight answers about that, Senator Birmingham said. Thats why, at the conclusion of todays hearings, the committee has resolved to (ask) the Transport Minister to appear before this committee. Catherine King should front up and give us straight answers. If Ms King declined the invitation, Senator Birmingham said there was precedent for house ministers to appear before the senate, and if Ms King had nothing to hide, she should turn up and answer the questions. Senator Bridget McKenzie is leading the inquiry into Australia's bilateral air services agreements. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Martin Ollman DFAT told first The inquiry learnt Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade was told of the decision to reject Qatars application before Mr Albanese was told. First assistant secretary for the Middle East and Africa Division, Ridwaan Jadwat, told the inquiry that DFAT was asked by Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wongs office to provide advice on Qatars request for her to relay to Ms King. He said that was done via email on January 24 after a mandate for the government to negotiate with Qatar was prepared for Ms King to sign. Mr Jadwat said the contents of the email were subject to public interest immunity. He said DFAT was informed of Ms Kings decision to reject the application on July 12. The Prime Minister was made aware of the decision on July 13. The Coalition have accused the government of running a protection racket for Qantas. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Gaye Gerard Senators seek to establish timeline The inquiry was told that Qatar made the application to increase its flight offerings in August last year, A brief in relation to the request was finalised by the department in early January and given to Ms King. That brief was aimed to help the minister determine whether or not negotiations or consultations should be entered into with Qatar. There were early indications that Ms King would enter into negotiations and make that public, but it was not until July she determined otherwise. A day earlier, Ms Hrdlicka said she had met with Ms King in mid-January, and it was her understanding the minster would meet with Qantas on or around January 23. Ms Hrdlicka told the committee that after her meeting, she expected a positive outcome to be announced by Ms King soon after. The inquiry heard Ms King had been told Mr Joyce was unhappy, and the pair were expected to meet around January 23. The committee is seeking to determine whether the minister met with Qantas before making its Qatar decision. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Gaye Gerard Inquiry chair Senator McKenzie pushed for the public servants to detail whether Ms King or her office had met with senior Qantas officials at or around that time. She slammed the public servants for dodging the committees questions, saying the protection racket being run by the government was incredible, and asked the department to hand over a comprehensive list of meetings and discussions between the department and Qantas. Senator Birmingham was flabbergasted by the lack of detail public servants had about meetings with then- Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce, and called on them to urgently seek confirmation from Ms Kings office. Because if it did, we appear to have gone from a situation where the minister thought she was going to sign it off (in January) in the space of the next week or two and publicly released it, to one where she lingered for the next six months with no request to the department for further information, Senator Birmingham said. With no further analysis provided by the department. seemingly nothing provided by any other department of state or government agency. So something happened at that point in time, and that is a critical juncture. So I hope that you can get that transparency from the office. The Coalition have been leading the questioning. Picture: NCA NewsWire / John Gass The officials did confirm Mr Joyce had met with the government in November 2022, after Qantas lodged its submission. Hours later, Ms Purvis-Smith confirmed there were no other meeting briefs pertaining to Mr Joyce. She said there was one meeting brief from the Jet Zero conference where Qantas was in attendance. But there was no other meeting, she said. Earlier, Senator McKenzie hit out at the Qantas executives for showing a level of arrogance that our once-beloved national carrier shouldnt be displaying. We are trying to get to the bottom of the Qatar Airways decision and the lobbying that they had done to government, she told 9 News on Thursday morning. We know this decision has cost $3bn over five years. Why minister blocked the bid Minister King has offered the public a host of reasons as to why she made such a decision, but it was public servants from the transport department on Thursday who gave senators the most comprehensive list yet behind the determination. The senate committee, set up after Ms King repeatedly refused to answer the Coalitions questions about the decision, had previously heard Qantas was an aggressive player in Canberra and vigorously lobbied government on matters that threatened the national carriers market share. The transport leaders would not be drawn on how influential Qantas had been in the process, and could not provide answers about any meetings, but under intense questioning from Simon Birmingham, Transport Group Deputy Secretary Marisa Purvis-Smith offered the range of reasons as to why Ms King had made the decision. She took into consideration a range of factors. They included: what is happening in the aviation and international aviation market at the moment; what is happening with the Covid recovery; what is happening with the capacity coming back into the system, particularly from other aviation suppliers and where are they up to and the impact on jobs in the long term, she said. That was a range, but not the definitive full set of factors she took into account. Ultimately, it is a decision for the minister. Ms King has also conceded that an incident in Doha airport in 2020 where five Australian women were ordered off a plane at gun point and strip searched had formed part of her decision. Senator unleashes on absent minister Senator Birmingham exploded at Ms Purvis-Smith about Ms Kings absence and lack of transparency. The Liberal senator said it was completely unacceptable that ministerial officials had to answer for Ms King, who took leave before the inquiry began. Is that Minister Kings office despite a request from her own department to help with evidence, unwilling to confirm whether or not she had a meeting or discussion with Alan Joyce, Senator Birmingham said. If Minister Kings office is saying get stuffed when their own department is seeking to provide information to this committee, then Minister King should front up herself. A case of defection will be filed against Kamlesh Singh, the only MLA of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in Jharkhand. The first hearing in this case will be held on October 12 in the tribunal of Speaker Rabindranath Mahato. Information about this has been sent to the plaintiff and defendant on behalf of the Speakers Tribunal. MLA Singh has been asked by the tribunal to appear in the first hearing and answer orally or in writing himself or through his advocate. Speaker Mahato will hear the case of defection on the basis of the 10th Schedule of the Constitution. After the split in NCP, MLA Jitendra Awhad of Sharad Pawar group had applied to Speaker Mahato to file a case of defection against MLA Singh. On the complaint of Maharashtra MLA Awahad, the hearing of defection has started against MLA Singh. In the complaint letter sent to the Speaker, Jitendra had said that MLA Singh was working beyond the party line. He is working against the policy principles of the party. It is noteworthy that some NCP MLAs in Maharashtra had joined the BJP coalition government with Ajit Pawar. Whereas Sharad Pawar group is with India alliance. Both the groups are making their respective claims on NCPs election symbol Watch. After the complaint against Jharkhand MLA Singh, Ajit Pawar group leader and former Union Minister had come forward in defence. He had sent a letter to the Jharkhand Assembly saying that a case of defection cannot be filed against his MLA Singh in Jharkhand. At present this matter is with the Election Commission. In such a situation, no case can be made against them. After the complaint of Maharashtra MLA Jitendra Awhad, Speaker Rabindranath Mahato had asked MLA Kamlesh Singh to present his side in writing by 27 September. However, the Ajit Pawar faction had already made it clear to the Jharkhand Assembly that NCP MLA Singh is with them. MLA Shri Singh has also replied to the notice saying that he is in Ajit Pawar faction. Education Minister Atishi on Thursday expressed her disappointment at the poor hygiene and deplorable state of the MCD school in Nizamuddin where she made a surprise inspection Thursday morning. The poor condition of the MCD schools is the result of the BJPs 15 years of maladministration in the MCD, the Minister said. The deplorable condition of the schools makes it clear that for so many years, the MCD played with the future of children and never paid attention to education. According to sources, not only were the walls and floors of the school covered in dust, but also the classrooms were sans teachers. Pointing out negligence and dirt in the schools maintenance, she issued an ultimatum to the school principal, giving her a weeks time to address the issues or be prepared for suspension. The Education Minister stated that poor sanitation and cleanliness in the school premises reflect the insensitive attitude of the school administration towards the future of the students. This is not tolerable in the Kejriwal Government, she added. During the inspection, the Minister found heaps of dirt in every corner of the school, with garbage scattered all around. Due to a prolonged lack of cleanliness, dust had accumulated on the floors and walls besides cobwebs. Also, there were piles of broken desks and insufficient provision of drinking water for the children. Upon seeing the deplorable condition of the school, she said it is the principals duty to ensure that all children receive quality education in a clean and safe environment. However, the condition of the school suggests that the school administration is insensitive to the future of the children studying here. She said that the indifferent attitude towards the education of the children studying here is the reason for the schools current state. In this regard, she directed the officials to immediately issue a show-cause notice to the school inspector to provide reasons for the situation. The National Democratic Teachers Front candidate AK Bhagi on Thursday retained the post of Delhi University Teachers Association president, defeating the Democratic United Teachers Alliances Aditya Narayan Mishra. Bhagi polled 4,182 votes while Mishra got 3,787. Out of more than 9,500 eligible voters, an impressive 8295 exercised their democratic rights. Total valid votes were 7969 and invalid stood at 326. Bhagi said that his priority is to complete the regularisation scheme and introduce new policies such as the pension scheme and EWS seats. We are happy and excited to be the winners again. Our priority is to complete the regularisation scheme, which is in the halfway stage. We will also focus on completing the pending work that we started two years ago, Bhagi said. We will also focus on new policies such as the pension scheme and EWS seats, he added. Specifically referring to the 12 Delhi government funded colleges, Professor Bhagi emphasized that DUTA will pressurize the Delhi government to timely release grants and salaries to these colleges, otherwise DUTA will approach the Education Ministry and the UGC to request them to take these colleges under their direct control. Out of these 12 colleges, 11 have not even initiated the recruitment process. DUTA will make all efforts to get posts advertised in this colleges at the earliest Nine organisations, including the Democratic Teachers Front, AAP-backed Academic for Action and Development Delhi Teachers Association, Indian National Teachers Congress, Delhi Teachers Initiative, Samajwadi Shikshak Manch, Common Teachers Front, Independent Teachers Front for Social Justice and the Voice of DU Ad Hocs came together to form the Democratic United Teachers Alliance for this years Delhi University Teachers Association (DUTA) elections. | The footage of a CCTV camera exposed how the men in khaki were patting their backs, citing action against criminals. The alleged disclosure came to fore in Meerut after which two policemen were sent to Reserve Police Lines and a probe was ordered in the matter. According to reports from Meerut, two police constables posted in Kharkhoda police station faced action after they were accused of arresting a youth by keeping a pistol in a bike and later showing its recovery. The youth, identified as Ankit Tyagi, was arrested on Tuesday. His family members alleged that constables Santosh Kumar and Dinesh posted at Kharkhoda police station reached their residence in Khandavalli village on Tuesday night to search it and claimed that they had received information about illegal weapons in the house. According to family members, during the so-called search, a country-made pistol was recovered from the bike, but later after examining the CCTV footage, it was found that the two policemen themselves had kept it in the bike. The family members of the arrested youth reached the office of Inspector General of Police Nachiketa Jha on the same night and kept pleading to intervene in the matter. In the meantime, the Kharkhoda police booked Ankit Tyagi under the Arms Act. On Wednesday morning, the family met Jha and showed him the entire CCTV footage. Shocked with the development, Jha ordered Senior Superintendent of Police Meerut Rohit Singh Sajwan to investigate the matter. Sajwan said that on the basis of the CCTV footage, both the accused policemen were removed from Kharkhoda police station and transferred to Reserve Police Lines. He said that the investigation into the case had been handed over to Additional Superintendent of Police (Rural Area) Kamlesh Bahadur. He said appropriate action would be taken on the basis of the outcome of the probe. Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party (SP) president and former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh Akhilesh Yadav took a dig at the functioning of the police, citing this incident. Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Akhilesh said: First they keep it (weapon) themselves and then recover it, their raid is false and their detention is false. Uttar Pradesh Congress spokesman Anshu Awasthi also attacked the government over the issue, claiming that the policemen in UP were having a nexus with criminals and arms dealers, hence they were carrying illegal country-made weapons which they use to book people under Arms Act and later pat their backs in the name of crackdown on criminals. Awasthi demanded that on the basis of the recording of CCTV footage in Meerut, it was clear that the illegal weapon was in possession of the two constables, so the innocent youth must be released immediately and both the policemen should be arrested and booked under the Arms Act. Those looking forward to private liquor stores reopening in Delhi might need to wait a little longer as the Government has decided to extend the ongoing existing policy, for another six months, allowing only Government vends to operate in the national Capital. Under the ongoing policy, only Government-owned agencies will run liquor shops. The existing excise policy was implemented as a stopgap arrangement till a new policy was prepared and implemented by the Delhi Government. The old excise regime was set to expire on September 30. The Government said the decision was taken to ensure the continuity of the existing excise regime while the excise department formulates a new policy. The proposal for extension was approved by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. A notification to this effect is expected by Friday. Reacting on the extension of the old excise regime for another six months, Vinod Giri, Director General, Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC) told The Pioneer that the current policy was meant to be a stop-gap measure to prevent a regulatory vacuum due to sudden withdrawal of the new excise policy of 2021. It is now being extended repeatedly just to keep business going. It is not a planned excise policy design to work for all stakeholders. What the industry needs more than anything else is a regulatory stability. In absence of a long-term excise policy, companies cannot make long-term plans. They need clarity on the policy front over the next year or two at least in order to invest and execute in the state, Giri said. In recent times we have seen frequent major changes in excise policy which have had an unsettling effect on the industry. For example, the companies had responded well to the Delhi Governments appeal to supply stocks well during policy transitions to prevent stock outs. But they have been left in lurch as there is still no resolution on stock left in company depots during excise policy transitions even though its almost two years from the first change over. Furthermore, even though the policy is extended for a few months every time, the department charges a fee for the full year. Thats bizarre and against all norms of fair trade, Giri added. The government scrapped its new policy and returned to the old one after Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena in July last year recommended a CBI probe into alleged irregularities in the implementation of the former. This policy was scheduled to expire on March 31, 2023, but the Delhi government extended it for six months until September 30. In August, the excise department made it mandatory for proprietors and firm partners running hotels, clubs and restaurants having bars to submit their police verification certificates. The step was taken by the department to ensure that a person holding the excise licence was of good moral character and did not have any criminal record. There are over 970 HCR category licensees in the city. Around 400 HCR category licensees have approached the police for verification, bar owners said. According to CIABC, liquor companies who have option of supplying elsewhere in India are naturally hesitant to stock up in Delhi not knowing the future regulatory landscape. Since Delhis operating margins anyway are not great, companies with pan India footprint have the option of prioritising other markets for supplies if faced with such uncertain regulatory framework, it said. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Thursday said his government has released the funds for the Rajiv Gandhi Kisan NYAY Yojana for farmers. The decision was made to prevent any potential delays as the Election Commissions permission will be required once the model code of conduct comes into play ahead of elections, he said. Baghel also highlighted his governments commitment to providing ration to 73 lakh individuals and disbursing Rs. 147 crore as unemployment allowance to youths. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said the Chhattisgarh government had done a lot to battle poverty and the NYAY schemes had lifted 40 lakh people out of poverty in five years. They were addressing a Krishak Sah Shramik Sammelan in Sumabhatha village of Balodabazar-Bhatapara district, an official statement said. Kharge and Baghel launched the Mukhyamantri Nirman Shramik Pension Sahayata Yojana. Under this scheme, construction workers registered for 10 years and who are 60 or more will be provided a pension assistance of Rs 1,500 per month for life. Under the Rajiv Gandhi Kisan NYAY Yojana, 24,52,592 farmers received a total of Rs. 1,895 crores in their bank accounts. Under the Godhan NYAY Yojana, 65,000 cow dung sellers got a total of Rs. 5.16 crore. Furthermore, 33,642 sugarcane farmers received an incentive of Rs. 57.18 crore. A total of 1,02,889 beneficiaries received Rs. 55.76 crore under various schemes. The beneficiaries included unorganized workers, labourers as well as building and construction workers. The two leaders also laid foundation stones of 264 development works worth Rs. 266 crore in the district. In a shocking turn of events, Punjab Congress MLA from Bholath Sukhpal Singh Khaira was arrested by the Punjab Police on Thursday morning in connection with a 2015 drugs case. The arrest, conducted by a team led by Superintendent of Police Manjeet Singh, unfolded at Khaira's residence in Chandigarh at around 6 am. The arrest led to a dramatic confrontation between Khaira and the police, with the MLA demanding to see the arrest warrant and questioning the identity of the police officers involved. The police informed Khaira that he was being arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and would be taken to Jalalabad in Fazilka. Khaira's son went live on Facebook during the arrest, showcasing the tense standoff between his father and the police. Khaira vehemently protested the arrest, asserting that the Supreme Court had already quashed the NDPS case against him. Following his arrest, Khaira was presented before the Jalalabad court, where he was remanded to police custody until September 30. While the police had sought a seven-day remand, the court granted a two-day remand. The arrest of the senior Congress leader has sparked a political firestorm in Punjab, with Khaira and the Congress party alleging that this is a case of political vendetta. Khaira's arrest has triggered a series of reactions and developments in the state. Khaira's arrest has also set the stage for a legal battle. After being taken into custody, he was produced before Fazlikas Jalalabad court, which granted Khairas police custody until September 30 a decision that has raised eyebrows and further fueled the political controversy. Khaira's son, Mehtab Singh Khaira, issued a statement asserting that his father was arrested in an 8-year-old drugs case, which had previously been dismissed by the Supreme Court. The family remains resolute, pledging to fight for justice. Leaders from the Congress party, including Punjab Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring and Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa, have criticized the AAP Government's actions, labeling them as politically motivated. They asserted that Khaira's arrest is an example of the politics of revenge and intimidation by the state government. Khaira himself, known for his vocal opposition to the AAP government, claimed that he was being targeted due to his criticism of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and the state administration. He emphasized that he would continue to fight for justice and would not be intimidated by false accusations. This arrest adds a new dimension to the political landscape in Punjab, where the AAP government, despite being in a coalition with the Congress at the national level, has faced friction and disagreements with the Congress party on various issues. The situation is likely to intensify the political rivalry in the state as the arrested MLA continues to maintain his innocence. Khaira's arrest is expected to remain a focal point of discussion in Punjab's political arena in the coming days, raising questions about the use of state machinery against opposition leaders and the implications for the state's political landscape. In light of these developments, Punjab is witnessing a political showdown between the ruling AAP government and the opposition Congress, with legal proceedings adding another layer of complexity to the situation. Punjab Cong Holds Crucial Meet, To Stage Protest In Fazilka today Punjab Congress leaders held a crucial meeting in Chandigarh, hours after Khaira was sent to two-day police remand in a 2015 drugs smuggling case. Punjab Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring and leader of Opposition in Vidhan Sabha Partap Singh Bajwa presided over the meeting, following which, a party delegation arrived at the residence of Governor Banwarilal Purohit in a bid to discuss the issue. Congress leader and former minister Pargat Singh said that the party leaders will be holding a protest on Friday, September 29 in connection with the arrest. Tomorrow, we will proceed to Fazilka and this is not the right way to handle the current MLA. Today after meeting the Governor, we will go to Fazlika. We will protest against the arrest, he said. THE CASE Sources privy to the development said that a special investigation team led by Deputy Inspector General of Police Swapan Sharma was constituted in April 2023 and Khaira was arrested based on its probe into the 2015 case. The case in question dates back to March 2015 when the Punjab Police arrested several individuals, including former chairman of the Market Committee Dhilwan, Gurdev Singh, on charges of drug smuggling. Khaira's name was linked to the case due to alleged connections to Gurdev Singh. The drugs case was registered at Jalalabad in Fazilka and nine people, including a close aide of Khaira, were booked and later convicted under the NDPS Act. Police had recovered two kg heroin, 24 gold biscuits, one country-made pistol, a .315-bore pistol and two Pakistani SIM cards from them. Khaira's name emerged later during police investigation. However, in 2017, the Supreme Court stayed the trial court proceedings against the Congress leader who was summoned as an additional accused in the matter. He was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in 2021 on the charge of money laundering linked to the 2015 drugs case. He was granted bail in 2022. In February 2023, the Apex Court quashed the summoning order against Khaira in the 2015 drugs case. Accusations Against Khaira The primary accusations against Khaira include supporting an international gang of smugglers, having sheltered them, receiving financial benefits from drug traffickers, and enjoying the proceeds of crime. It was alleged that between 2014 and 2020, Khaira reportedly spent over Rs 6.5 crore on himself and family members, with expenses exceeding his declared income. Investigations also revealed substantial unexplained cash deposits in Khaira and his family members bank accounts over the years. The Investigation Agency accused Khaira of maintaining contact with drug traffickers and receiving funds from them. According to the charge sheet, the funds received were allegedly used for purchasing properties. Shiv Pal Singh (IFS), Chief Vigilance Officer, BHEL on Thursday visited various manufacturing blocks of BHEL, Bhopal factory, reviewing the work-in-progress of the products being manufactured. Rajeev Singh, Executive Director, BHEL, Bhopal and Anil Kumar Jain, General Manager & Head, Corporate Vigilance, BHEL were present with him. While visiting the blocks, Singh took information about the work being done from the employees, supervisors and executives and said that we have to focus on the profit front of the company along with the quality of the products. He stressed on customer satisfaction thereby strengthening the reputation of BHEL. Singh, while discussing with the General Managers and DROs of Bhopal Unit, reviewed the progress of the work being done in their departments. Appreciating BHEL as an engineering company, he discussed various aspects of vigilance. He said that all the policies of the company should be transparent and all the information should reach every section of the employees. Emphasizing on making the documents correctly and honestly, he said that while tendering, we should pay full attention to the rules of the company. The person keeps moving but the documents are always there. Therefore, documents are very important. Unless we are clear, honest and ethical, neither the company will benefit nor the company's reputation will increase. He also said that vigilance is to help the officers and employees and there is no need to keep distance from them. He called for working boldly in a time bound manner. While discussing with different sections of the employees, Singh answered their questions & assured to implement their suggestions. During the discussion, Rajeev Singh, while highlighting the work being done in BHEL, Bhopal, laid emphasis on material management and adherence to the rules of Purchase Policy and Works Policy in procurement through tendering and best material purchasing. Jain discussed various aspects of vigilance and said that we should accurately assess the actual market conditions while making estimates. We should make tender mentioning our items and requirements correctly. Pankaj Paradkar, Senior Deputy General Manager welcomed everyone in the program and highlighted the objectives of the program. In a commitment to combat communicable diseases, the Yogi governments ongoing campaign in the state is set to continue through the month of October. From October 3 to October 31, special vigilance will be maintained across Uttar Pradesh under the special communicable disease control campaign and Dastak campaign (October 16 to 31). Importantly, the entire campaign will undergo daily monitoring and reporting. Any personnel found to be lax or negligent will face strict consequences. Urban Bodies Directorate director Nitin Bansal has written a letter to all the municipal commissioners and the general manager of the Jal Sansthan regarding this. For effective control and prevention of communicable diseases and meningitis in the state, the state government is running a special communicable disease control campaign and Dastak campaign in coordination with many departments. In this, not only action is being taken to prevent the spread of communicable diseases, but proper arrangements have also been made for the treatment of the suffering patients. Nitin Bansal said that effective and timely action should be taken on the mentioned points related to urban development, and activities should be conducted daily during the campaign as per the prescribed microplan. Additionally, information about the activities completed daily should be compulsorily sent on the directorates Google link. Bansal has also given instructions to identify personnel who are lax and negligent in this important campaign and ensure strict action against them. The Dastak campaign is being taken forward with coordination between several departments that will play significant role, which include Medical Health and Family Welfare, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Education, Municipal Corporation, Urban Development, Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Swachh Bharat Mission, Information, Culture and Medical Education Department. Furthermore, UNICEF, PATH, WHO NPSP, Tata Trust, Plan India and Godrej CSR are not only associated with this campaign as partners but are also monitoring it regularly. The campaign is operating within a microplan that involves collaborative efforts between various departments. This plan entails ongoing surveillance of mosquito breeding and population density in the districts, identifying high-risk areas based on last years data and an increase in communicable disease cases. In areas with a high mosquito population, intensive mosquito control measures are being implemented. Additionally, the campaign includes checking the breeding conditions of mosquitoes inside the houses, for which ASHA and other employees have been deployed by Anganwadi and the district. Information will be given by Asha and Anganwadi workers on measures to stop mosquito breeding and prevent mosquito bites. Source reduction activities will be conducted in collaboration with the Urban Development, Rural Development, and Health departments. Apart from this, activities will also be conducted for monitoring and treatment of patients of leptospirosis and scrub typhus. DAV PG College has extended the enrollment date for post-graduate courses to September 30. College principal KR Jain informed that students can now enroll for post-graduate courses till September 30. Additionally, students can also enroll for undergraduate courses based on merit till September 30. He said that due to certain circumstances, students who were unable to meet the admission deadline can now register for undergraduate courses based on merit. Further, admission coordinator Ramesh Kumar Sharma stated that for postgraduate courses, with the exception of MSc Zoology, Botany, Physics and Chemistry, students who are listed in any ongoing admission process based on CUET will be given a final opportunity to appear in the college on September 30. To complete the admission process, students have been instructed to appear before the admission committee between 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM. Additionally, they are advised to bring their documents at the time of admission, he added. Ex Qantas chief Alan Joyce has been warned of dire consequences if he doesnt face a government inquiry after he failed to show this week. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Christian Gilles Alan Joyce could face the prospect of jail time if he fails to front a Senate inquiry into the blocking of extra flights from Qatar. The former Qantas chief has been warned he will need to face the inquiry when he returns to Australia from a European vacation. Coalition senator Bridget McKenzie warned Mr Joyce that he could face a whole raft of processes if he refuses to answer questions about the governments decision to block a bid from Qatar Airways to introduce more flight into major Australian cities. Alan Joyce has told the inquiry that he cannot attend as he is overseas. Picture NCA NewsWire / Aaron Francis Mr Joyce has key information from conversations with prime minister Anthony Albanese and transport minister Catherine King about the decision. He is the only one that can go to conversations that hes informally had with his bromance partner, the prime minister, Anthony Albanese and indeed Minister King, Senator McKenzie told reporters on Thursday. There is a process within the standing orders and the procedures of the Senate, which will eventually make it very hard for former CEO Joyce to not appear. Senator McKenzie warned a person had been jailed in the 1950s for ignoring a summons order, but said she hoped we dont get there. Mr Joyce had told the inquiry that he could not attend either in person or via video link due to personal obligations while he was travelling overseas. Senator Bridget McKenzie issued the stern warning on Thursday. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Martin Ollman Meanwhile, Virgin Australia chief executive Jayne Hrdlicka fronted the inquiry on Wednesday telling senators that she had spoken with the transport minister about the Qatari bid for five minutes at best during a one-hour meeting. She said Ms King had told her Joyce was not happy about the Qatari bid and was seeking a meeting. Nonetheless, I was left with a very clear impression that the decision to proceed was very compelling and imminent. Based on this conversation, I felt comfortable that Qatar would be granted additional air rights, Hrdlicka said. Senator McKenzie also formally invited Ms King to front the inquiry. The invitation comes as Coalition senators were left exasperated after senior transport bureaucrats, who appeared before the inquiry on Thursday, were essentially gagged from answering critical questions about whether Qantas had been a factor in the decision. Story continues Their demands came after the public servants told the inquiry that Ms King who is on leave was handed a brief from the transport and infrastructure department about the Qatari application in January but did not make a decision until July. Senator Simon Birmingham and Senator Bridget McKenzie have vowed to bring Alan Joyce and Catherine King before the committee. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Martin Ollman Senator McKenzie said the evidence presented to the inquiry suggested Ms King was, in January, of a mind to approve those additional flights from Qatar. Something changed, and that brief sat on minister Kings desk until July. For six months, no further consultations were done with affected parties, no information was sought by the department, Senator McKenzie said in a press conference. The government is shroud of secrecy around this decision, and the fact that it has gagged hardworking public servants from providing evidence to a public inquiry so that the Australian travelling public can understand why they made this decision is unconscionable. There are three people who can provide that level information about Qantass involvement the Transport Minister, the Prime Minister, and former CEO of Qantas, Alan Joyce. Dr Jai Kumar Chaurasia, Associate Professor, Department of Pathology & Lab Medicine under the leadership and able guidance of Executive director Prof. Ajay Singh, attended International CME titled International CME on Hematology, Basic concepts and changing Paradigms organized by the Department of Pathology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College (JNMC), Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), Aligarh, U.P from 20 September 20 21, 2023. In the CME he chaired a scientific session delivered by Dr Richa Chauhan (AIIMS New Delhi) entitled Revisiting the spectrum of Plasma Cell Disorders A case Based Approach. His contribution to meeting was well recognized. The meeting focused on the basic concepts and also on changing trends with updation in hematology. The meeting had talks from reknowned national and international stalwarts speakers such as Prof. Anita Borgis, Prof. Sumeet Guzral (TMH, Mumbai) and Prof Bakul Dalal (Vancouver, Canada). Farmers in Punjab have initiated a three-day rail roko agitation, blocking train tracks at various locations to voice their demands, encompassing financial aid for losses incurred due to recent floods, a legal assurance for Minimum Support Price (MSP), and debt forgiveness. The protest against the Central Government is set to continue until September 30. Demonstrations are planned in several cities across Punjab, including Moga, Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, Jalandhar, Tarn Taran, Sangrur, Patiala, Ferozepur, Bathinda, and Amritsar. In Amritsar, farmers occupied the Amritsar-Delhi railway track in Devidas Pura, symbolizing their commitment to the cause. Numerous farmer organizations, including the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, Bharti Kisan Union (Krantikari), BKU (Ekta Azaad), Azaad Kisan Committee Doaba, BKU (Behramke), BKU (Shaheed Bhagat Singh), and BKU (Chottu Ram), are actively participating in the protest. Their demands encompass the allocation of a financial relief package for flood-affected individuals in North Indian states, a legally binding guarantee for Minimum Support Price on all crops, and debt relief for farmers. In Amritsar, farmer leader Gurbachan Singh emphasized that the farmers are seeking Rs 50,000-crore flood relief package for North Indian states and the implementation of MSP in line with the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission report. Furthermore, he demanded the complete waiver of debt for farmers and laborers, along with Rs 10 lakh compensation and government employment for the families of farmers who lost their lives during the agitation against the now-repealed three farm laws. The 'rail roko' protest has been organized by 19 farmer unions spanning six North Indian states, all advocating for the realization of their demands. The primary organization among the six Punjab-based farmer unions is the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee (KMSC), which has garnered support from unions in Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. Their primary objectives include securing Rs 50,000 crore flood relief package for flood victims in affected North Indian states, enacting an MSP guarantee law, providing 300 days of employment under MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act), and addressing the issue of drug addiction, particularly in Punjab. KMSC president Satnam Singh Pannu said that protests are being staged at 12 locations in Punjab, including Moga, Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, Batala, Jalandhar Cantonment, Tarn Taran, Sunam, Nabha, Basti Tankwali, Mallanwala, Rampura, and Devidaspura in Amritsar. The protest has also garnered support from farmers in Haryana, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh, who are converging on Punjab to join their fellow farmers in blocking railway tracks. A man and his son were arrested and charged with treason for hoisting the Pakistani flag on the roof of their house in Moradabad. The action was taken after a video went viral on social media on Thursday morning. Reports said that a video in Bhagatpur police station area went viral on social media and the Pakistani flag was seen placed on the roof of a house and hoisted by two persons on Thursday morning. As soon as the Bhagatpur police received information about the viral video. They reached the spot and took photographs. They also made a video of the flag installed on the roof of the house, owned by one Raees. The cops subsequently took Raees and his son Salman, seen hoisting the flag, in custody. The police have registered a case of treason against Raees, a textile businessman, along with his son Salman. The Pakistani flag was removed from the roof of Raeess house by the police. Both the accused were later produced before a magistrate from where they were sent to jail while further investigations were on. Internal divisions are surfacing within the Opposition's I.N.D.I.A bloc, particularly pronounced in Punjab, where the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the principal opposition Indian National Congress (INC) find themselves at odds. These fissures have deepened following the arrest of Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira in connection with a drug-related case dating back to 2015. The Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, abbreviated as I.N.D.I.A, comprises 28 parties united by a common objective: to challenge the dominance of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) Government in the forthcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections by forging a united front. Sukhpal Singh Khaira, a three-term Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) and a prominent Congress leader, was apprehended in the early hours of Thursday from his residence in Chandigarh. His arrest has triggered allegations of political vendetta from the Congress, accusing the ruling AAP in Punjab of leveraging its power to target Khaira on charges of drug smuggling and money laundering. Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring has categorically labeled Khairas detention as a political vendetta and an attempt to intimidate the opposition. The Congress has rallied around Khaira, offering unwavering support in this matter. In stark contrast, AAP vehemently denied any political vendetta. AAPs chief spokesperson Malvinder Singh Kang asserted that their actions adhere strictly to the rule of law, free from any taint of political revenge. Kang has emphasized that had they harboured political retribution in mind, ample opportunities existed during their year-and-a-half-long tenure in Punjab to arrest Khaira. AAP's defense of Khairas arrest is anchored in fresh evidence linked to the 2015 case. PUnjabs Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh underscored that the law applies uniformly to all individuals, irrespective of their political affiliations. He affirmed that the law is blind to party membership. However, the situation took a disquieting turn when Khaira, in an alarming statement, accused Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann of harboring a deep-seated animosity towards him and being capable of orchestrating his elimination. He further alleged that the AAP was engaged in the politics of revenge, intensifying political turbulence in the state. As these political skirmishes play out on Punjabs stage, Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge made it abundantly clear that the party will not countenance injustice. Kharge, though yet to delve into the specifics of Khaira's arrest due to his travel schedule, has affirmed that those who perpetrate injustices are not destined for longevity. He has asserted that the Congress will not bow or yield in the face of adversity and will persist in the pursuit of justice. Kharge succinctly summarized, Whatever may be the case, if someone does injustice, they don't survive for long. If anyone does injustice to us, then we are not the ones who will tolerate it. The repercussions of Khaira's arrest are reverberating not only within Punjab but are sending shockwaves throughout the broader I.N.D.I.A Alliance. The claims of unity among opposition parties within the alliance are displaying signs of strain, as the Punjab Congress has called for evidence against Khaira in the 2015 drugs case. This discord could potentially jeopardize the alliance's cohesion in putting up a formidable challenge to the BJP-led NDA government on the national stage. The internal discord within the INDIA bloc raises pertinent questions about its ability to present a united front against the BJP, particularly when other regional parties like the CPI (M) have already ruled out seat-sharing arrangements in key states such as Bengal and Kerala. As the 2024 general elections loom large, the ability of these parties to bridge their differences and forge a united front against the BJP becomes increasingly critical. Yet, the ongoing dispute poses a significant threat to their alliance, potentially favoring the BJP in multiple states. Much of the recent deliberation within the INDIA bloc has centered on seat-sharing arrangements in Punjab, a state boasting 13 Lok Sabha seats. However, regional leaders from both parties have exhibited steadfast resistance to dividing these seats. Punjab Cabinet Minister Anmol Gagan Mann asserted that the AAP would independently contest all 13 seats, while state Congress president Warring emphasized that the Congress would not proceed without their consent. This seat-sharing debate, however, extends beyond Punjab. The AAP and Congress were also tasked with dividing seven seats in Delhi and 26 in Gujarat, collectively amounting to 46 seats, equivalent to 8.47 per cent of the total Lok Sabha seats. The BJP's resounding victory in all 33 seats in Delhi and Gujarat, along with securing four of the 13 seats in Punjab, underscores the challenge confronting the Opposition in these states. If the AAP and Congress fail to resolve their differences stemming from Khaira's arrest, the BJP may clinch a majority of seats in Punjab and Delhi, with a high probability of once again sweeping Gujarat. The appeal of the INDIA bloc as a cohesive non-BJP alternative is increasingly subject to scrutiny due to these internal schisms. The CPI (M)s refusal to engage in seat-sharing further complicates the path to opposition unity, casting doubt on the effectiveness of this alliance. Leader of Opposition in the Punjab Assembly Partap Singh Bajwa has been consistently ruling out any alliance with AAP in Punjab, citing the challenges posed by their regional disparities. He went so far as to characterize Arvind Kejriwal's party as urban naxal. Bajwa asserted that forging an alliance at the state level was an arduous endeavour since neither their leaders nor their cadres were inclined to engage in discussions. He also claimed that 32 AAP leaders had established contact with him, expressing their support for the Congress signaling the Congress intent to contest all 13 seats in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. In response, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann retorted that the Congress had quashed Bajwa's aspirations of becoming the Chief Minister while urging him to communicate directly with the high command. Punjab Congress president Warring, also echoing reservations about any alliance with AAP in the state for the Lok Sabha polls, affirmed that the Congress was functioning as the opposition against the government and preparing to contest all 13 seats, having received no directives from the party high command regarding an alliance or seat-sharing in the state. Khaira's arrest, stemming from a 2015 drug case, raises concerns about the abuse of power and a quest for vengeance. As these events continue to unfold, the unity of the I.N.D.I.A alliance, both regionally and nationally, hangs precariously in the balance, with the 2024 Lok Sabha elections looming large. The ability of these parties to surmount their differences and present a united front against the BJP is pivotal for the opposition's electoral prospects. However, the ongoing discord threatens to derail their alliance and potentially pave the way for the BJP's resurgence in multiple states. | In an effort to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in the state, the Yogi government has allocated Rs 8.58 crore for the renovation of 13 community health centres across 12 districts in the state. This amount has been released after financial approval from the government. Specifically, the government is actively engaged in the installation of state-of-the-art medical equipment and the enhancement of infrastructure within government hospitals, primary health centers, community health centers, as well as treatment and research institutions. The aim is to fulfill the infrastructural and basic needs and equip these centres with world-class facilities, a government spokesman said. In this regard, the districts where the process of revamping one community health centre is ongoing include Shravasti, Ballia, Balrampur, Unnao, Kaushambi, Muzaffarnagar, Hapur, Chitrakoot, Mahoba, Lucknow, Badaun, and Sultanpur. Additionally, the upgradation of two community health centers in Hapur district will also be initiated. The process of up-gradation is being initiated in 13 community health centres in 12 districts across the state of Uttar Pradesh. Among these, Bahadurgarh and Gohara Alamgir in Hapur district are prominent. Additionally, Laxmanpur Bazaar in Shravasti, Sahatwar in Ballia, Unchgaon in Unnao, Karari in Kaushambi, Sisauli in Muzaffarnagar, Raipura in Chitrakoot, Shri Nagar in Mahoba, Behta in Lucknow, Islamnagar in Badaun and Dihadughdupur in Sultanpur are included in the list of community health centres undergoing the up-gradation process. This allocation of funds will expedite the development of all these 13 community health centres after receiving financial approval from the government. It will also streamline the procurement process for all the medical equipment. The quality of all the equipment purchased in the process, determination and compliance of the purchasing process will be done under the supervision of the purchasing officer. Notably, the entire process will be carried out in accordance with the rules and conditions of the state government to ensure that the allocated funds are used only for the designated purposes. As part of this initiative, Rs 4 lakh has been allocated for the purchase and installation of two baby transportation incubators, Rs 60,000 for the purchase and installation of 3 autoclave machines, and Rs 9.40 lakh for the purchase and installation of 6 warmer machines for MNCU in Lucknow-based Veerangana Avantibai Women's Hospital. Similarly, in Barabanki, funds of Rs 8 crore have been approved for the installation of an X-ray machine printer in the Sirauli Ghauspur hospital and for ongoing construction work at the Para Medical Institute in Kannauj. Furthermore, in Ghaziabads Loni Nagar Palika Parishad, an initial installment of Rs 3.08 crore has been released for the construction of a hospital with a capacity of 50 beds. Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, his Punjab counterpart Bhagwant Mann, and Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu amongst several other leaders from the region on Thursday expressed grief at the death of agricultural scientist M S Swaminathan. Known as the father of the Green Revolution in India, Swaminathan passed away at his residence in Chennai on Thursday. He was 98. Khattar said Swaminathans incomparable contribution to improving agricultural production by developing high-yielding crop varieties and modern technologies will always be remembered. The demise of renowned agricultural scientist Shri M S Swaminathan, the father of the Indian Green Revolution and Padma Vibhushan awardee, is an irreparable loss for the Indian agricultural sector, Khattar said in a post in Hindi on X. Mann, in a post in Punjabi on X, said the scientists death was the end of an era. This loss can never be filled, Mann said, adding that Swaminathans support for farmers and agriculture will be remembered forever. Himachal Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, in his condolence message, said that Dr. Swaminathan was a renowned scientist and pioneer of India's green revolution and always wanted to see the nation to progress. He prayed for peace of departed soul and strength to the family members. Expressing his condolences, Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal said he played a pivotal role in introducing and developing high-yielding wheat and paddy varieties for which farmers of the country, especially Punjab, will be forever in his debt. I appeal to the Govt of India to fulfil the agricultural scientists pending recommendation and fix MSP for food grains as per the C-2 (comprehensive cost of production) plus 50 per cent profit. This will go a long way in truly doubling farmer income, Badal posted on X. Congress leader and former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda said the demise of Swaminathan, the pioneer of the Green Revolution, is an irreparable loss for the agriculture sector. Punjab Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian and senior Congress leaders Partap Singh Bajwa and Kumari Selja also expressed grief at Swaminathans demise. BJP National Vice President and former Chief Minister Raghuvar Das has shot a letter to Chief Minister Hemant Soren asking him not to mislead Sarna community in the name of separate Sarna religious code. Das has asked CM to order the issuance of ST caste certificates only to the people of Scheduled Castes who follow the customs, costumes and traditions established of tribals in the state. Raghuvar Das through his letter has reminded Soren that the tribal society had appointed him to the post of Chief Minister with great confidence, but now they are feeling betrayed. The tribal society expects justice from him, but with regret it has to be said that by becoming the Chief Minister, he have betrayed the tribal society. It is not hidden from anyone that the tribal society is going through a bad phase in Jharkhand today. The tradition and identity of the tribal society in Jharkhand is in danger because of JMM/Congress alliance government. Those running government behind the scenes want the Scheduled Tribe community here to take up the guitar instead of Mandar. In the letter, BJP leader Raghuvar Das has requested the Chief Minister that instead of misleading the tribal community, especially the Sarna community, in the name of Sarna Code, government should at least implement what is in their hands. There is an age-old demand of the Scheduled Tribe community that ST caste certificate should be issued only to those who follow established customs, traditional costumes and traditions. In this regard, he has given the example of the order of the Kerala High Court in the case of State of Kerala and Another vs Chandramohanan in 1997. In which the court had given a clear verdict as to what should be the basis for issuing Scheduled Tribe certificate. He has asked the CM to work on implementing the decision of the Kerala High Court in Jharkhand in the interest of the Scheduled Tribe community. Giving information about the decision of Kerala High Court in the letter, it was said that the court has said that Both mother and father of the applicant should be members of Scheduled Tribe. The marriage of their parents should have been done as per the customs and traditions of the respective tribe. Their marriage should have been done by the tribal society and it should have been recognized by the society. Caste conventions, traditions and rituals are being followed by the applicant and his parents. Whether the applicant and his parents are following the rules of inheritance and succession of their ancestors or not. Caste certificate should be issued only after investigation of all these matters. He has requested Chief Minister Hemant Soren to issue immediate instructions to the Personnel Department that caste certificates should not be issued to those people who do not follow the customs and traditions of the tribal society. Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has said that it is responsibility of the state government is give knowledge history in right perspective to the new generation. Maharana Pratap, an embodiment of bravery, fulfilled his responsibility and duty despite hardships and inspired the future generations. Maharana Prataps biography, patriotism, and his sacrifice will be presented to the future generations at the proposed Maharana Pratap Memorial. This will be a source of inspiration to them. Chouhan was addressing the foundation laying ceremony of Maharana Pratap Memorial near Tatya Tope Stadium, Bhopal. The Chief Minister Chouhan laid the foundation of Maharana Pratap Memorial. The Chief Minister said that the Maharana Pratap, who sacrificed everything for the mother nation is known for his bravery and sacrifice. Maharana Pratap Memorial will symbolise patriotism and social harmony. Remembering the contribution of Bundelkhands pride Maharaj Chhatrasal ji, Chouhan announced that a grand memorial will be built at the samadhi of Maharaj Chhatrasal, Mau Sahaniya (Chhatarpur). Besides, the existing museum in Dhubela will be enriched. Referring to the bravery of Maharana Pratap, Chief Minister Chouhan said that he was courageous since childhood. Maharana Pratap took over the reins as the ruler of Mewar. The Mughals would be terrified to face Maharana on the battlefield. Maharana Pratap opposed the expansionist policy of the Mughal Empire and fought bravely in many major battles against Akbar, including the battle of Haldighati in the year 1576. Chief Minister Chouhan said that Jhalman, Bhil Sardar Punja and his army, Ramshah Tanwar of Gwalior and his sons, Hakim Khan Sur and Bhamashah had risked their lives to protect the personality of Maharana Pratap. Maharana Pratap never bowed before the Mughals. Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said that Maharana Pratap Memorial is the result of Chief Minister Chouhans sense of being connected to the public and his foresight. Taking inspiration from the life and virtues of Maharana Pratap, India will become a nation leading the world. Chouhan has taken vowed to establish Mahakal Lok, Ekatma Dham, Ramraja Lok, Salkanpur Devi Lok etc. to promote cultural development in the state. Due to this, the prestige of Madhya Pradesh is increasing in the entire country. Culture, Tourism and Religious Trusts and Endowments Minister Usha Thakur said that Maharana Pratap Memorial will awaken the feeling of spirituality and nationalism in the coming generation. To build a Jagatguru India of the 21st century, it essential to convey the masses about the sacred character of Maharana Pratap. This monument will continue to inspire valour, patriotism and social harmony for ages. Minister Thakur heartily welcomed Chief Minister Chouhan for the construction of Maharana Pratap Memorial. An animated film based on Maharana Pratap Memorial was screened in the programme. Ramvrat Pandey and fellow artists gave a song-musical presentation focusing on the life of Maharana Pratap. On this occasion, Revenue Transport Minister Govind Rajput, Urban Development and Housing Minister Bhupendra Singh, Co-operative Public Service Management Minister Arvind Bhadoria, Panchayat and Rural Development Minister Mahendra Sisodia, Industrial Policy and Investment Minister Rajvardhan Singh Dattigaon, Urban Development and Housing Minister OPS Bhadoria, Mineral Resources and Labour Minister Brijendra Pratap Singh, President of State Level Deendayal Antyodaya Samiti Programme Committee Rampal Singh were present along with representatives of Rajput community and a large number of common people. Memoranda of understanding for investments amounting to about Rs 3,000 crore were signed on the third day of chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhamis Britain visit on Thursday. In the run up to the global investors summit slated to be held in Dehradun in December, Dhami also attended a roadshow held in Birmingham where he met various industrialists. In London, the chief minister attended a meeting in which MoUs worth Rs 3,000 crore were signed between the State government and two companies. According to officials, an MoU worth Rs 2,000 crore was signed with Aager Technology. The company has agreed to invest in lithium battery plants in Uttarakhand. Another MoU worth Rs 1,000 crore was signed with Fira Barcelona. The Fira Barcelona is a noted group in Europe involved in convention centres and event management. Apart from this, two MoUs were signed with EaseMyTrip. The company has agreed to State dedicated online travel aggregator and promoting Uttarakhand at the global level as a tourist destination. Secretary to the CM, R Meenakshi Sundaram, Industry director general Rohit Meena and other officials were present on the occasion. In Birmingham, more than 250 delegates involved in education, information technology, health and manufacturing industry attended the roadshow I the presence of the CM. The delegates sought information from the State government representatives about the various policies in Uttarakhand. The chief minister also invited all the investors to the global investors summit to be hosted by the State in December. He also assured all the investors that the Uttarakhand government will provide full cooperation. Dhami said that Birmingham is a historical city which also maintains a prominent place in the industrial sector. Thanking all the Indian and Uttarakhandi origin people in London and Birmingham for their affection, the CM said that Uttarakhand is situated in the lap of the Himalaya and is rich in various natural resources. The peaceful valleys and atmosphere conducive to work make the State different from others, he said. The CM further said that the theme of the global investors summit to be held in Dehradun during December is Peace to Prosperity. He also informed the delegates about the proximity of Uttarakhand to the national Capital along with better road, rail and air connectivity. It will be recalled that earlier on the second day of the CMs Britain tour, the State government signed MoUs worth Rs 4,800 crore with two companies. The State government has set a target of attracting Rs 2.5 lakh crore investment in the global investors summit to be held in Dehradun. The Delhi Government on Thursday launched a mobile application to enhance the academic experience for students and teachers and empower them to raise school-related concerns. The DoE Nirikshan app has been designed to empower the students and the teachers to raise school-related concerns and ensure their prompt redress, they said. The app can be accessed by using student and teacher IDs. It promises to revolutionise the way issues in Delhi government schools are addressed, the Directorate of Education (DoE) said in a statement. The DoE Nirikshan app serves as a dynamic platform for instant communication, enabling users to submit requests concerning various school-related matters to the administration directly, it added. The DoE further said the app will play a crucial role in disseminating information and streamlining and digitising the inspection of essential attributes such as infrastructure, supplies, midday meals, stationary and uniform-related issues. Speaking about the apps features, Education Minister Atishi said the Arvind Kejriwal government is committed to introducing technological interventions to make the lives of the students and the teachers easier. This technological intervention by the DoE will prove to be extremely helpful in quickly addressing the needs of students and teachers at school. It will also decrease the duration of complaint redressal by the school administration and the Directorate of Education, she said. With the app, students facing challenges such as lack of adequate desks, benches or blackboards can bring these issues to the notice of their principal. Once the concerns of the teachers and the students are submitted, they can track the status of their grievance in the app itself. 450 needy families receive China-donated assistance in west Afghanistan Xinhua) 16:45, September 28, 2023 ZARANJ, Afghanistan, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Afghan authorities distributed China-donated assistance to 450 needy families in west Afghanistan's Nimroz province on Wednesday, provincial director for Natural Disaster Management Authority Mohammad Qasim Mohammad said Thursday. Each family received a bag of 50 kg of rice, the official said, adding that humanitarian aid would be distributed to more than 1,000 needy families in the coming days. China has contributed humanitarian assistance including winter clothes, blankets, tents, anti-COVID-19 vaccines, and foodstuff to the war-ravaged country over the past two years. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Two Cayuga County school districts will be getting partial settlements after taking legal action against vaping companies. At its Tuesday meeting, the Auburn Enlarged City School District Board of Education approved a resolution for the district to receive no less than $6,663 in a partial settlement of a lawsuit against the Altria Group and its companies. The resolution notes the district previously authorized Ferrara Fiorenza PC, its law firm, and Frantz Law Group APLC to start litigation against Altria, whose companies include Philip Morris USA, for "the production, marketing, sale and distribution of e-cigarettes and vaping devices." Auburn Superintendent Jeff Pirozzolo told The Citizen the litigation is connected to a lawsuit the district joined in November against Juul Labs and others involved in making such devices. He also said the district received a settlement of over $20,000 from Juul Labs during the 2022-2023 school year. Pirozzolo is concerned about the health risks of vaping products on students, he continued. He noted that with the amount of students written up for code of conduct violations related to vaping in recent years, and the money the district has spent on vapor sensors in the bathrooms of the high school and junior high school, vaping has been "a huge distraction" for the district. The same has been true for the Cato-Meridian Central School District, superintendent Dr. Terry Ward told The Citizen. At its Monday meeting, the district's board of education also approved a resolution authorizing a partial settlement for vaping litigation. Ward said the awarded amount is approximately $17,000, minus attorney fees. Ward said the Cato-Meridian board approved vaping litigation last year, as advised by the district's attorneys. The district is vigilant with students about vaping, he continued. Some have started taking action against it themselves, such as creating signs asking fellow students to stop vaping in the bathrooms. Ward also said Jennifer Kelly, principal of Cato-Meridian Jr.-Sr. High School, and her team "have done a great job talking with students about the dangers of vaping." In other news The Auburn school district has hired one of its employees as its new business executive. The board approved Tessa Crawford for the position during its Tuesday meeting, with Crawford starting the following day. The agenda for the meeting said Crawford will receive $106,000 prorated for less than a full year of employment. Crawford has been the district's treasurer and previously served as deputy treasurer, and has been with the district's business office for about five years. Crawford is still working as treasurer, said Pirozzolo, who added that the position has been posted. Lisa Green, the district's former longtime business executive, retired from the role in late July. Over the summer, the district approved a contract to have Green perform business official duties as needed until a replacement was found, along with Green training a new executive once a candidate was hired. Pirozzolo said Green began training Crawford on Wednesday. He said Crawford took a civil service test for the role in June, and the results came back in late August. Pirozzolo also said the district is excited Crawford will be bringing her prior experience to the business executive job. "We've never had a business manager that has served as our deputy treasurer and our treasurer and is now our business manager. So that brings in a whole different perspective, of somebody coming in and really understanding the entire role, the business office and Auburn," Pirozzolo said. | The political turmoil over the comments made by opposition leaders on Sanatan dharma is showing no signs of let-up with the Bahujan Samaj Party MP now opening a front and attacking those speaking against it. Tamil Nadu minister and DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin and leader of Uttar Pradeshs major opposition party Samajwadi Party Swami Prasad Maurya were seen spewing venom against Sanatan dharma. Due to this, anger was seen amongst the public while the politics of the country as well as the state became heated over the issue. BSP MP Malook Nagar, while opening a front against those making objectionable comments on Sanatan dharma, said: Whosoever is speaking against Sanatan dharma is wrong; it is the responsibility of Congress that none of its constituents should speak against it. No one has the right to speak against anyone elses caste and religion. It is clear from these statements of Malook Nagar that by taking the name of the Congress, included in the INDIA bloc, he was directly targeting Samajwadi Party leader Swami Prasad Maurya and Tamil Nadu minister and DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin. Nagar said that people should work within the ambit of law. Whosoever works for the country is right, he said, adding that backward people should get reservation. The BSP leader also attacked the Congress which is running shoulder to shoulder with the Samajwadi Party and DMK in the INDIA bloc. Both DMK and SP leaders have so far spoken against Sanatan dharma. Tearing into the AAP over allegations linked with the construction of a new residence for Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the BJP on Thursday said it hoped that the CBI probe would bring forth the truth behind his rajmahal. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva said Kejriwal is playing victim card by making absurd statements to mislead the public and media. Evidence has been found in every investigation of corruption on Kejriwal government and this is the reason why two Ministers of Kejriwal are in jail, Sachdeva said. Earlier, addressing a press conference, former Delhi BJP President and MP Manoj Tiwari on Thursday charged that the Arvind Kejriwal government is a government with a criminal mentality which is being run by criminals and corruption has become its identity. Leveling these allegations in a news conference, Tiwari also said if there is any party in the history of Indian politics which has achieved record in loot and corruption in the shortest time since its formation it is Aam Aadmi Party whose kingpin is Arvind Kejriwal. The BJP leader claimed Kejriwals entire system is involved in forming a party in the name of the common man and looting the treasury of the same common man. The former Delhi BJP president said we have been saying that all the scams and loot happening in Delhi government are happening as per Kejriwals orders. Taking a dig at the revamped Chief Ministers bungalow, Tiwari charged leave aside its other things, the toilet seats and curtains installed in it are worth crores. He also said those who had pledged for simplicity in 2013 are today in 2022 living in the rajmahal. The former President of Delhi BJP said that BJP has been continuously demanding a CBI investigation in this matter and yesterday CBI has decided to start the investigation and we hope that this investigation will bring the truth of the rajmahal in front of the public. The seventh three day convention of AJSU Party will be organized at Morhabadi Ground in Ranchi from September 29 and it will continue till October 1. All preparations for the convention have been completed. The venue has been named Dharti Aaba Birsa Munda Complex. Whereas all the programs will be held in Vinod Bihari Mahato Auditorium, the founder of Jharkhand movement, who gave the slogan of fight and study. The Party's Chief, Sudesh Kumar Mahato, while reviewing all the preparations on Thursday, directed the workers and officials to fulfill their responsibilities for the success of the convention. Mahto said that the general convention of AJSU will be a resolution meeting for Jharkhand Navnirman. Therefore, it has been decided to make the General Conference a convention of the entire state. Its objective is to honor the agitators who contributed to the creation of the State and also to prepare a blue print for a better Jharkhand by collecting the views of experts coming from different fields, he added. The Party Chief will address the inaugural session on the first day of the convention. Jharkhand agitators will be honored in this session. The party's report will be presented on the same day. Besides, a proposal to amend the constitution of the party will also be presented. Along with this, experts from different fields will present their views in the discussion on important topics like Jharkhand movement, challenges of the state, social justice, political participation. On September 30 also, the challenges and burning issues of Jharkhand will be discussed. Representatives of various political parties, academicians and experts will participate in this discussion. It is the understanding of the party that their ideas can be collected and placed on various tables, so that the outline of the reconstruction of Jharkhand can be decided. Apart from professors from prestigious educational institutions like various IITs, IIMs, National Law University, people from business class will also participate in the programme. Obviously, this convention will prove to be important for discussion and solutions to the challenges coming in the direction of reconstruction of Jharkhand. On September 1, the last day of the convention, fateful events will be decided outside the party along with the presentation of political resolutions by partner organizations, an election and announcement of political resolutions. A public meeting will be organized on the same day, in which all 32,000 villages of the State will be represented. At least 1 lakh people will participate in this public meeting. The important topics that will be discussed on September 29 and 30 are rationale of Jharkhand movement, challenges of Jharkhandi youth, locality and planning policy, social justice and political participation, language, culture of Jharkhand, land agriculture and irrigation, mining and industry, environment and tourism, education and health situation in Jharkhand and self-governance and women empowerment. On International Day of Older Persons October 1, the Chief Electoral Officer of Madhya Pradesh will honor voters aged 80 years and above. CEO Anupam Rajan said that the Election Commission of India has given instructions to honor these senior voters. Instructions have been issued to all the collectors and district election officers of the state to organize International Day of Older Persons. The felicitation ceremony will be held in those villages where voters above 80 years of age reside. The program will be held in the Gram Panchayat building or school building. Rajan said that on October 1, a voter felicitation ceremony will be held at the RCVP Noronha Administration Academy auditorium in the state capital. In this, local voters above 80 years of age of Bhopal city will be felicitated. Rajan said that Rewa district of the state has the maximum number of 35052 voters above 80 years of age. After this, there are 31512 voters of this age group in Indore district. Sheopur district of the state has the least number of 2504 voters above the age of 80 years. There are 652746 voters above the age of 80 years in all the 52 districts of the state. There are 261058 male voters and 391680 female voters. Chief Electoral Officer Rajan said that there are 318 voters above 100 years of age in Sehore district of the state. At second place is Ujjain district which has 316 voters of this age group. Sheopur district has the least number of 13 voters in this age group. There are a total of 5253 voters aged 100 years or more in 52 districts of the state. There are 1492 male voters and 3761 female voters. If there is more than one polling station at the Panchayat headquarters level, where voters above 80 years of age live, then the program will be organized at one place. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday termed the Womens Reservation Bill an election jumla and a "huge betrayal" of the hopes of crores of Indian women and girls. The bill won't be implemented till 2034 and it was similar to the elephants showoff tooth, he said. Addressing an event in Chhattisgarh, Kharge termed the move as a Modi-led governments gimmick to get political mileage ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. The Congress leader said the Union government was yet to conduct the 2021 census, and the reservation bill will come into effect only after that. Kharge praised the Bhupesh Baghel government in Chhattisgarh and said what the BJP could not do in 15 years has been done by the Congress in five years in the state. The BJP must be surprised to see the welfare work done by the Congress government for farmers, labourers, women and children in Chhattisgarh, he said. The Womens Reservation Bill is a jumla as they (BJP) think people will vote for them and forget the promises made by the party after some time," he said. Kharge raised the issue of a caste census for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) as it will provide detailed information on the basis of which welfare programmes can be launched. On BJP's rule, he said five percent of the people have 62 percent of the countrys wealth while 50 percent of people possess only 3 percent of assets. He also accused that the BJP of trying to destroy the Constitution and wanting to replace it with another one. The Department of Commerce at XITE College, in collaboration with the Jamshedpur Management Association, organized an enriching industry visit for their second-year B.Com and BA English students to the esteemed Tata Motors facility in Jamshedpur. The visit, which took place on Tuesday, saw the enthusiastic participation of 30 students eager to explore the inner workings of one of India's leading automobile manufacturers. The meticulously planned itinerary ensured that students received a comprehensive understanding of various facets of the automobile industry. The day commenced with a visit to the Tata Motors Skill Development Centre, where the company conducts apprenticeship training programs. This firsthand exposure allowed students to witness the crucial role skill development plays in Tata Motors' workforce development strategy, aligning with XITE College's commitment to holistic learning. During this segment of the visit, students gained insights into the practical aspect of skill acquisition, furthering their appreciation for the importance of skill-building in today's competitive job market. Subsequently, the group proceeded to the heart of the Tata Motors operationthe manufacturing plant. Here, students were introduced to the intricate processes involved in assembling, testing, and quality control of automobiles. Observing the assembly line and quality assurance procedures in action at an industry leader like Tata Motors proved to be an eye-opening experience, providing students with a deeper understanding of the industry's rigorous standards. Dr. Swati Singh, a professor from XITE College, and Anushka Mahato, a representative from the Jamshedpur Management Association, accompanied the students throughout the visit. Additionally, three officials from TATA Motors graciously guided the students, sharing their expertise and knowledge. XITE College's commitment to a well-rounded education is evident in its emphasis on exposure through industry visits and internships. Such hands-on learning opportunities not only complement the academic curriculum but also prepare students to become industry-ready professionals. This industry visit to TATA Motors stands as a testament to XITE College's dedication to providing its students with invaluable experiences that bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world applications. Lt Governor VK Saxena has highlighted the efforts undertaken in Delhi to plant bamboo trees to augment oxygen supply in the national capital, saying this initiative will help revive the city's ambience. At a recent meeting of the Northern Zonal Council in Amritsar, Saxena made a presentation on the good practices and innovative steps taken in Delhi in recent months. The Northern Zonal Council -- chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah -- comprises Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh and the Union Territories of Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Chandigarh. Saxena said the city government's forest department planted about 2.9 lakh bamboo trees and the Delhi Development Authority another 25,000 across the city, including at 'Baansera' on the Yamuna's bank. Saxena claimed bamboo trees emit 30 per cent more oxygen compared to other plant species and consume less water, helping raise the water table. These trees, despite scepticism by "experts", have grown up to 10-20 feet during the past eight months. While Delhi suffers from "imported air pollution" from other states, this initiative will help revive and refurbish the city's ambience, Saxena told the gathering. Similarly, in an effort to clean the Najafgarh drain and the Yamuna river, the extremely cost-effective and innovative measure of "partial gravitational de-silting" was used to dispose of thousands of tons of accumulated silt and garbage, he said. This apart, motor boats with attached rotor blades were used to cut hyacinth into small pieces that were then loaded onto trucks using conveyer belts. These were then put beneath the soil on the banks of the drain/river, turning them into natural manure, the Lt Governor said. For the disposal of waste accumulated at Delhi's infamous landfill sites, Saxena said innovative measures such as selling the refuse-derived fuel (RDF) to cement and paper industries for their boilers and plants was undertaken. These industries, mostly located in Rajasthan and western Uttar Pradesh, respectively, have started paying the Municipal Corporation of Delhi Rs 100 per ton for the RDF instead of the Rs 2,500 that the civic body was paying out earlier to get it picked. Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed anguish on Thursday over the death of renowned agricultural scientist M S Swaminathan and said he was a legendary figure in India's economic history. Swaminathan, a renowned agricultural scientist and lifelong crusader against hunger who bet on sustainable farming, died in Chennai on Thursday. "Deeply anguished to learn about the passing away of Dr. M S Swaminathan Ji. A legendary figure in India's economic history Swaminathan Ji led a journey of transforming our agriculture sector by introducing the nation to the true power of its farmers. A scientific genius in his own right Swaminathan Ji," Shah wrote on X. Swaminathan was 98 and is survived by three daughters, including Dr Soumya Swaminathan, the former chief scientist of the World Health Organization. A raging fire seemingly caused by fireworks set off to celebrate a Christian wedding consumed a hall packed with guests in northern Iraq, killing around 100 people and injuring 150 others as authorities warned Wednesday the death toll could still rise. Authorities said that flammable building materials also contributed to the latest disaster to hit Iraqs dwindling Christian minority. In the fires chaotic aftermath, officials offered conflicting death tolls and security officials said they had detained staff at the wedding hall as part of their investigation. The fire happened in the Hamdaniya area of Iraqs Nineveh province, authorities said. Thats a predominantly Christian area just outside of the city of Mosul, some 335 kilometres (205 miles) northwest of Baghdad. There was no official word on the cause of the blaze, but the Kurdish television news channel Rudaw aired footage showing pyrotechnics shooting flames up from the floor of the event and setting a chandelier aflame. Multiple witnesses, including 50-year-old wedding attendee Faten Youssef, said the fire started as the bride and groom began their slow dance. The flames raced through plastic decorations and the ceiling started collapsing, she said.Flames started falling on us, Youssef told The Associated Press. Things were falling down and blocked the way to the exit. She said her family found their way out through a kitchen, after the family struggled through smoke and flames and her son failed to kick through a jammed exit door. It wasnt immediately clear if the bride and groom were among those hurt. Survivors arrived at local hospitals in bandages, receiving oxygen, as their families milled through hallways and outside as workers organized more oxygen cylinders. Some of those burned included children. Ambulance sirens wailed for hours after the fire as paramedics brought out the injured. Extravagant wedding ceremonies are common in Iraq, like many countries in the Middle East. Families often invite hundreds of relatives and members of the broader community, spending heavily on spectacular ceremonies with elaborately decorated halls, music and entertainers, often including pyrotechnics. Casualty figures fluctuated in the hours after the incident. An initial Health Ministry statement, carried by the state-run Iraqi News Agency, said the blaze killed over 100 people and injured 150. Health officials in Nineveh province put the death toll at 114, while Iraqi Interior Minister Abdul Amir al-Shammari later put the death toll at 93. A Health Ministry official, speaking to the AP at midday Wednesday on condition of anonymity as he did not have authorization to talk to journalists, said that 30 bodies have been identified by their relatives, but the rest are so badly burned that will require DNA identification. He put the death toll at 94, with around 100 people still receiving medical treatment. The death toll is expected to rise as some are in critical condition, he said. Ahmed Dubardani, a health official in the province, told Rudaw that many of those injured suffered serious burns. The majority of them were completely burned and some others had 50 to 60 per cent of their bodies burned, Dubardani said. Father Rudi Saffar Khoury, a priest at the wedding, said, It was a disaster in every sense of the word. Although the Nineveh Plains, the historic homeland of Iraqs Christians, was wrested back from the Islamic State group six years ago, some towns are still mostly rubble and lack basic services, and many Christians have left for Europe, Australia or the United States. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani ordered an investigation into the fire and asked the countrys Interior and Health officials to provide relief, his office said in a statement online. Hamdaniya is on Iraqs Nineveh Plains and under the control of its central government, though it is close to and claimed by Iraqs semiautonomous Kurdish regional government. Masrour Barzani, the prime minister of the Kurdish region, ordered hospitals there to help those hurt in the blaze. The United Nations mission to Iraq offered its condolences over the blaze as well, describing its staff as shocked and hurt by the huge loss of life and injuries in the blaze. Interior Ministry spokesman Saad Maan said that the primary forensic report described a lack of safety and security measures at the venue. Iraqi security forces arrested nine workers at the venue as part of their investigation, said Abdullah Al-Jabouri, a security official who heads the Nineveh Operations Command. One of the owners of the venue, Choony Naboo, declined to comment when contacted by the AP. I cant talk right now, Im very busy, he said before hanging up. Civil defence officials quoted by the Iraqi News Agency described the wedding halls exterior as decorated with a highly flammable type of sandwich panel cladding that is illegal in the country. The fire led to the collapse of parts of the hall as a result of the use of highly flammable, low-cost building materials that collapse within minutes when the fire breaks out, civil defence said. Experts say cheaper sandwich panels dont always meet stricter safety standards, and are especially dangerous on buildings without any breaks to slow or halt a possible blaze. That includes the 2017 Grenfell Fire in London that killed 72 people in the greatest loss of life in a fire on British soil since World War II, as well as multiple high-rise fires in the United Arab Emirates. Similar panels have been blamed in several previous fires in Iraq. In July 2021, a blaze at a hospital in the Iraqi city of Nasiriyah was determined to have been fuelled by sandwich panels. It killed between 60 to 92 people, according to conflicting statements by officials at the time. (AP) MicroSectors FANG+ Index ETN's stock was trading at $19.33 at the beginning of the year. Since then, FNGS shares have increased by 66.4% and is now trading at $32.16. View the best growth stocks for 2023 here. AUBURN Melissa McConnell and Jodi Langworthy have 62 years of combined experience working at Auburn Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, but they say they're paid about as much as new hires. McConnell and Langworthy were two of about 20 workers at the 85 Thornton Ave. nursing home who held a rally in front of it Tuesday afternoon. The workers, represented by the 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East union, said they are in negotiations with the nursing home's management after their three-year contract expired Aug. 31. Both members of the union, McConnell and Langworthy are certified nursing assistants who have worked at the facility for 33 years and 29 years, respectively. Despite that longevity, they told The Citizen, they've received only minimal pay increases. "There's no reward, no nothing, no recognition," McConnell said. Auburn Rehabilitation & Nursing Center did not respond to a request by The Citizen for comment. Employees of the nursing home on Tuesday lamented its lack of staffing and argued their wages are too low for the high-pressure work of caring for residents, which they said often requires them to perform tasks outside of their job descriptions. Along with the employees, other members of the union and local political candidates attended the rally. The union's Tamikio Gallishaw thanked attendees. "We're here to let this community know that you all deserve fair wages. We're gonna get it," she said, prompting cheers and applause. "Thank you, Auburn, for the continuous work that you do." Gallishaw said after the rally that she was waiting to hear from the nursing home's management about a date for resuming negotiations. Allison Krause, a communications manager with the union, said negotiations are still continuing. Gallishaw said the contract for the 25 union members at the facility, all CNAs or licensed practical nurses, proposes wages that are "substandard." "We've been at the table for several weeks," she said. "These CNAs need the fair wages that we deserve and (management is) not willing to come up on these wages to be competitive." Gallishaw and Krause said most of the 1199SEIU members at the nursing home have been there less than five years, but some have more than 100 years in combined experience. "For such a specialized field of work, you'd think that it would have fair enough pay to be that specialized," said certified nursing assistant and union member Brandon Riggleman. Several employees at Tuesday's rally noted The Commons on St. Anthony, a facility close to the nursing home, pays more than they make at Auburn Rehabilitation & Nursing Center for the same work. But the employees care about the residents at the facility, they continued. Laura Tryon, a licensed practical nurse and permanent staff night nurse there, said "continuity of care" is important for residents. "It takes a special individual to do health care work. It's not like factory work, where you're working with inanimate objects. Every job has its place, but this work, when you're caring about someone's loved one it could easily be you or your family," said Lawrence Brooks, education coordinator for 1199SEIU. "Most of our folks treat people the way they want to be treated, and it's about respect, first and foremost. Not only do we respect our residents, we expect to be respected by the employer." The following companies are subsidiares of Rite Aid: 1515 West State Street Boise Idaho LLC, 1740 Associates LLC, 4042 Warrensville Center RoadWarrensville Ohio Inc., 5277 Associates Inc., 5600 Superior Properties Inc., Advance Benefits LLC, Apex Drug Stores Inc., Ascend Health Technology LLC, Bartell Drugs, Broadview and WallingsBroadview Heights Ohio Inc., Design Rx Holdings LLC, Design Rx LLC, Design Rxclusives LLC, Drug Palace Inc., EDC Drug Stores Inc., Eckerd Corporation, Edgehill Drugs, Elixir Holdings LLC, Elixir Insurance Company, Elixir Pharmacy LLC, Elixir Puerto Rico Inc., Elixir Rx Options LLC, Elixir Rx Solutions LLC, Elixir Rx Solutions of Nevada LLC, Elixir Rx Solutions LLC, Elixir Savings LLC, Envision Pharmaceutical, First Florida Insurers of Tampa LLC, GDF Inc., Genovese Drug Stores Inc., Gettysburg and Hoover-Dayton Ohio LLC, Grand River & Fenkell LLC, Harco, Harco Inc., Health Dialog, Health Dialog Services Corporation, Hunter Lane LLC, ILG 90 B Avenue Lake Oswego LLC, JCG Holdings USA Inc., JCG PJC USA LLC, K&B Alabama Corporation, K&B Incorporated, K&B Industries, K&B Louisiana Corporation, K&B Mississippi Corporation, K&B Services Incorporated, K&B Tennessee Corporation, K&B Texas Corporation, LMW 90B Avenue Lake Oswego Inc., Lakehurst and Broadway Corporation, Laker Software LLC, Maxi Drug North Inc., Maxi Drug South L.P., Maxi Drug Inc., Maxi Green Inc., Munson & Andrews LLC, Name Rite LLC, P.J.C. Distribution Inc., P.J.C. Realty Co. Inc., PCS Health Systems, PDS-1 Michigan Inc., PJC Lease Holdings Inc., PJC Manchester Realty LLC, PJC Peterborough Realty LLC, PJC Realty MA Inc., PJC Revere Realty LLC, PJC Special Realty Holdings Inc., PJC of Massachusetts Inc., PJC of Rhode Island Inc., PJC of Vermont Inc., Perry Distributors Inc., Perry Drug Stores Inc., RCMH LLC, RDS Detroit Inc., READs Inc., RediClinic, RediClinic Associates Inc., RediClinic US LLC, RediClinic of DC LLC, RediClinic of DE LLC, RediClinic of Dallas Forth-Worth LLC, RediClinic of MD LLC, RediClinic of PA LLC, RediClinic of VA LLC, RediClinic LLC, Richfield Road Flint Michigan LLC, Rite Aid Drug Palace Inc., Rite Aid Hdqtrs. Corp., Rite Aid Hdqtrs. Funding Inc., Rite Aid Lease Management Company, Rite Aid Online Store Inc., Rite Aid Payroll Management Inc., Rite Aid Realty Corp., Rite Aid Rome Distribution Center Inc., Rite Aid Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Rite Aid Transport Inc., Rite Aid of Connecticut Inc., Rite Aid of Delaware Inc., Rite Aid of Georgia Inc., Rite Aid of Indiana Inc., Rite Aid of Kentucky Inc., Rite Aid of Maine Inc., Rite Aid of Maryland Inc., Rite Aid of Michigan Inc., Rite Aid of New Hampshire Inc., Rite Aid of New Jersey Inc., Rite Aid of New York Inc., Rite Aid of North Carolina Inc., Rite Aid of Ohio Inc., Rite Aid of Pennsylvania LLC, Rite Aid of South Carolina Inc., Rite Aid of Tennessee Inc., Rite Aid of Vermont Inc., Rite Aid of Virginia Inc., Rite Aid of Washington D.C. Inc., Rite Aid of West Virginia Inc., Rite Investments Corp., Rite Investments Corp. LLC, Rx Choice Inc., Rx Initiatives LLC, Rx USA Inc., The Bartell Drug Company, The Jean Coutu Group PJC USA Inc., The Lane Drug Company, Thrift Drug Inc., Thrifty Corporation, Thrifty PayLess Inc., and Tonic Procurement Solutions LLC. Read More Target Corporation has a long history dating back to 1902. The company began as Goodfellows Dry Goods, operated by George Dalton, and later changed its name via a progression of mergers and acquisitions. The first Target store was opened in Roseville, Minnesota in 1962 as the discount division of the parent company. The idea was discount or low-priced items could still be fashionable and desirable. After meeting great success in the home territory, the concept went public in the late 1960s was later expanded on a national level during the 1980s. Target Corporation is now the 7th largest retailer in the US and is projected to bring in more than $113 billion in revenue for fiscal 2023. The department stores were shed in 2004 so today Target operates as a general merchandise retailer that serves on-trend items at discounted prices. It is known as a big box retailer and is a member of the S&P 500. The company listed about 2,000 stores in mid-2022 and had plans for growth. The company offers an assortment of everyday, household, and food goods in a bright and cheery atmosphere. It has set itself apart from other low-priced retailers as the chic choice for savvy shoppers. The companys stated purpose is to help families discover the joy of everyday life and it does so by offering quality products that families can afford. The company sells its products through a chain of stores as well as eCommerce. eCommerce is about 20% of Targets total revenue and was boosted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Services like delivery, same-day pickup, and access to thousands of necessary and discretionary items are also driving adoption. Target also offers amenities like cafes and opticians, and it hosts Starbucks inside the stores. Target Corporation has paid and increased its dividend for more than 5 decades. The company issued its 53rd consecutive distribution increase in calendar 2022 bringing the total annual payout to $4.32. In late October 2022, the payout was worth 2.7% in yield and came with a 40% payout ratio and a 9% distribution compound annual growth rate. Target is a leader in ESG and giving back to the community. Among its many endeavors is to return 5% of its profits to community charities as well as to inspire its employees to volunteer. Volunteers donate more than 1 million man-hours per year. Frontline (NYSE:FRO) pays an annual dividend of $3.20 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 14.65%. FRO has a dividend yield higher than 75% of all dividend-paying stocks, making it a leading dividend payer. The company does not yet have a strong track record of dividend growth. The dividend payout ratio is 86.25%. Payout ratios above 75% are not desirable because they may not be sustainable. Based on EPS estimates, FRO will have a dividend payout ratio of 108.11% in the coming year. This indicates that the company may not be able to sustain their current dividend. Read our dividend analysis for FRO. Webster Financial Corporation operates as the bank holding company for Webster Bank, National Association that provides a range of financial services to individuals, families, and businesses in the United States. It operates through three segments: Commercial Banking, HSA Bank, and Consumer Banking. The Commercial Banking segment provides commercial real estate and equipment financing, business banking, asset-based lending, and commercial services; public sector finance; mortgage warehouse financing; treasury management services; credit, deposit, and cash flow management services; and wealth management solutions to business owners and operators, including trust, asset management, financial planning, insurance, retirement, and investment products, as well as derivative, treasury, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and trade products and services. The HSA Bank segment offers health savings accounts, health reimbursement arrangements, flexible spending accounts, and commuter services that are distributed directly to employers and individual consumers, as well as through national and regional insurance carriers, consultants, and financial advisors. The Consumer Banking segment provides consumer deposit and fee-based services, residential mortgages, home equity lines, secured and unsecured loans, and credit cards to consumers; and small business banking products, such as credit, deposit, and cash flow management to businesses and professional service firms. It also offers online and mobile banking services. Webster Financial Corporation was founded in 1935 and is headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut. Capital One Financial Corporation was founded in 1988 with the goal of revolutionizing the credit card industry. The companys ground-breaking services were data-driven, opened the doors of credit to millions of people, and today Capital One is one of the worlds largest banks. The companys commitment to connecting people with responsible credit helped to rank it 10th in the US in regard to total assets and 72nd globally. The company has nearly $400 billion in assets in late 2022 and operated a network of subsidiary institutions including Capital One bank. Capital One Financial Corporation is headquartered in McLean, Virginia, and operates a network of branches and offices throughout the US, Canada, and the UK. Capital One Financial Corporation is the holding company for Capital One Bank (USA), National Association; and Capital One, National Association, which provides various financial products and services in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Capital One Financial Corporation operates in three segments: Credit Card, Consumer Banking, and Commercial Banking. The Credit Card segment operates a wide range of revolving consumer credit cards while the Consumer Banking segment offers a range of traditional banking and investment products including auto and home loans, savings, and certificates of deposit. The Commercial segment offers business accounts, financing, commercial and multifamily real estate, and commercial and industrial loans. In the US, the company serves its clients through digital channels, branches, cafes, and other distribution channels located in New York, Louisiana, Texas, Maryland, Virginia, New Jersey, and California. Digital services include online accounts, account services, loan applications, and investments. Among the many features of banking with Capital One are fee-free checking accounts, cloud-based financial tracking services, and Capital One Cafes. The company operates more than 40 cafes across the US where anyone, not just account holders, can get a coffee or snack as well as improve their financial education. The cafes are equipped with ample public space, nooks for private work, and even event space for meetings. Capital One continues to advance the digital financial industry to this day. The company was among the first to move its operations to the cloud, doing so in 2012, and it is now developing machine learning, open source, and cloud technology applications to help detect and prevent fraud, secure accounts, and improve banking services. Capital One is committed to aiding the worlds fight against climate change. To that end, it is pursuing several avenues that include influencing its value chain, fostering a sustainable office culture that is in sync with its surroundings, promoting and financing sustainable energy projects, and transparency in regard to its climate goals. 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. New York state banned the use of facial recognition technology in schools Wednesday, following a report that concluded the risks to student privacy and civil rights outweigh potential security benefits. Education Commissioner Betty Rosa's order leaves decisions on digital fingerprinting and other biometric technology up to local districts. The state has had a moratorium on facial recognition since parents filed a court challenge to its adoption by an upstate district. The Lockport Central School District activated its system in January 2020 after meeting conditions set by state education officials at the time, including that no students be entered into the database of potential threats. The district stopped using the $1.4 million system later that year. The western New York district was among the first in the country to incorporate the technology in the aftermath of deadly mass school shootings that have led administrators nationwide to adopt security measures ranging from bulletproof glass to armed guards. Lockport officials said the idea was to enable security officers to quickly respond to the appearance of disgruntled employees, sex offenders or certain weapons the system was programmed to detect. But an analysis by the Office of Information Technology Services issued last month acknowledges that the risks of the use of (facial recognition technology) in an educational setting may outweigh the benefits. The report, sought by the Legislature, noted the potentially higher rate of false positives for people of color, non-binary and transgender people, women, the elderly, and children. It also cited research from the nonprofit Violence Project that found that 70% of school shooters from 1980 to 2019 were current students. The technology, the report said, may only offer the appearance of safer schools. Biotechnology would not stop a student from entering a school "unless an administrator or staff member first noticed that the student was in crisis, had made some sort of threat, or indicated in some other way that they could be a threat to school security, the report said. The ban was praised by the New York Civil Liberties Union, which sued the state Education Department on behalf of two Lockport parents in 2020. Schools should be safe places to learn and grow, not spaces where they are constantly scanned and monitored, with their most sensitive information at risk," said Stefanie Coyle, deputy director of the NYCLU's Education Policy Center. The state report found that the use of digital fingerprinting was less risky and could be beneficial for school lunch payments and accessing electronic tablets and other devices. Schools may use that technology after seeking parental input, Rosa said. Full curfew imposed in Imphal valley. (DC File Image) GUWAHATI: In response to a surge in violence, the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) has been extended for another six months in Manipur. However, it will not apply to 19 police stations within the Imphal valley and an area bordering Assam. The "disturbed area" status under AFSPA will continue across Manipur, except for those 19 police stations in the valley districts. The decision to maintain the status quo was made by the state government due to the prevailing law and order situation. Notably, the Army and Assam Rifles cannot operate within the areas covered by these 19 police stations without the consent of the state police. Security officials have been advocating for AFSPA to cover the entire state to facilitate efforts to reduce or eliminate the presence of terror groups within the valley. Security agencies believe that banned terror organisations like the United National Liberation Front (UNLF), People's Liberation Army (PLA), Kanglei Yawol Kanba Lup (KYKL), People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK), and KCP have established a foothold in the Imphal valley. The order issued by the Manipur Government's Home Department cited the inability to conduct a detailed on-ground assessment due to the focus on maintaining law and order by Sister Security Agencies, given the current state of affairs. Meanwhile, the situation in Imphal has been tense since Tuesday night due to protests over the killing of two Meitei community students. On Wednesday, the state administration imposed a 24-hour curfew in both Imphal East and Imphal West districts. In an evening notification, authorities stated that the curfew was imposed to maintain law and order, prevent untoward incidents, and protect lives and property. The curfew started at 4 PM on September 27 and covered all areas of the Imphal valley. On Wednesday, several students were injured when security forces used tear gas shells to disperse a stone-pelting mob in Imphal's Moirangkhom, close to the chief ministers secretariat. The students were participating in a rally to protest the kidnapping and killing of two youths who had gone missing in July, and whose photos recently circulated on social media. Toyota Motor Corp.s global sales rose 9% in August from a year earlier to a record 923,180 vehicles thanks to an improvement in supply conditions and an increase in demand. Global production rose 4% to a record 924,509 vehicles, including subsidiaries Daihatsu Motor Co. and Hino Motors Ltd., the Japanese carmaker said Thursday. Sales of Toyota and Lexus brand cars grew more than 3% in Europe, mostly in Italy, Spain and England. But sales dropped 4% in Asia, including a 6% decline in China, where the company and other legacy carmakers like Volkswagen AG are struggling to compete with Chinese electric-vehicle powerhouses, such as BYD Co. Toyotas sales in Japan grew 45% from a year earlier in August, and 63% in South Korea. The worlds best-selling carmaker has told suppliers that it plans to make 150,000 EVs this year, 190,000 in 2024 and 600,000 in 2025, according to a Nikkei report last week. Also check these Vehicles Find more Cars Toyota Glanza 7.18 - 9.45 Lakhs* *Ex-showroom price Add to compare Check latest offers Toyota Camry 39.41 - 41.20 Lakhs* *Ex-showroom price Add to compare Check latest offers UPCOMING Toyota Belta 10 Lakhs *Expected Price View Details Toyota Fortuner 32.99 - 50.74 Lakhs* *Ex-showroom price Add to compare Check latest offers Toyota Vellfire 1.20 - 1.30 Cr* *Ex-showroom price Add to compare Check latest offers Toyota Rumion 10.29 - 13.68 Lakhs* *Ex-showroom price Add to compare Check latest offers Also Read : Toyota plans its third plant in India, and a new SUV Toyota sold 11,880 battery EVs in August, bringing its total this year to 65,467. Thats more than double the 24,000 it sold in 2022, but still a far cry from the 1.5 million that Chief Executive Officer Koji Sato promised it would sell every year by 2026. The company didnt release August EV production figures Thursday. Earlier in September, Toyota invited journalists on a tour of its factories to showcase the technology it is developing to mass produce BEVs. With a similar workshop in June, the company continues a publicity campaign to convince stakeholders that it has the means and conviction to catch up and compete with global EV frontrunners like Chinas BYD and Elon Musks Tesla Inc. First Published Date: Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar (ANI file image) New Delhi: The Election Commission will be on a three-day visit to Rajasthan beginning Friday to assess preparedness in the poll-bound state. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, Election Commissioners Anup Chandra Pandey and Arun Goyal will hold a meeting with representatives of recognised political parties in Jaipur on Friday, Chief Electoral Officer Praveen Gupta said. After this, the Commission will hold a discussion with nodal officers of the Rajasthan Police, income tax, excise, transport, commercial tax department, railways and airport etc. On August 30, a presentation will be given to the team by the Chief Electoral Officer, State Police Nodal Officer and Central Police Force Nodal Officers on the preparations for the polls. From October 3, the poll panel will be in Telangana for three days to take stock of election readiness, official sources said here on Thursday. Following the visit to the last two of the five poll-bound states, the EC is likely to announce the election schedule in the first week of October, it is believed. Assembly polls are likely to be held in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Mizoram and Rajasthan in November-December. The term of the legislative assembly of Mizoram ends on December 17 this year. The Mizo National Front is in power in the northeastern state. The terms of the legislative assemblies of Telangana, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan end on different dates in January next year. While the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) rules Telangana, Madhya Pradesh is ruled by the BJP. Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan have Congress governments. Tank Bund, the nerve centre of the city's Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, was witness to a kaleidoscope of emotions and activities marking the Shobha yatra on Thursday. (DC Image) HYDERABAD: Tank Bund, the nerve-centre of the citys Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, was witness to a kaleidoscope of emotions and activities marking the Shobha yatra on Thursday. From the break of dawn, Ganapati Bappa Moriya chants reverberated across PVNR Marg, Khairatabad, Telephone Bhavan, Secretariat, Liberty, Adarshnagar, and the surrounding areas, which all came to life by 9 am, as people from all walks of life converged for the grand immersion of Ganesha idols. The diversity was evident as people arrived in various modes of transportation, from trucks to bikes and autos. Kids and adults, including a record number of women, walked for at least two kilometres to reach the immersion site. A heartening sight that went viral was the enthusiastic manner children took pride and delight in carrying eco-friendly idols. Men and women in uniform, responsible for maintaining order, briefly joined the revelry, shaking a leg or two with the enthusiastic crowd. Volunteers provided much-needed refreshments, drinking water and buttermilk to the cops manning key junctions. A pleasant sight that drew the attention of everyone was when many persons staying as paying guests in Ameerpet and a boys hostel in Dilsukhnagar came in matching ethnic kurtas and danced to their hearts content during the immersion. "Since the immersion day has come during the middle of the week, we decided against going home for a day. Moreover, we have only watched the massive celebrations on TV to date. This year we wished to be an integral part of the celebrations at the Hussainsagar. We were not disappointed. It was truly a memorable experience," recounted Sravani Akkarla, a working professional from Nalgonda district. Things were not always smooth. Two groups clashed behind Prasad's Imax, briefly causing chaos before law enforcement authorities intervened and dispersed them. The weather didn't dampen the spirits of the large gathering. Heavy rain did not deter the more exuberant people from dancing in the rains, though some took refuge in available shelters. As the day progressed, some faced challenges, including difficulty finding water at noon, and vain bids to relieve themselves due to limited facilities. The day unfolded without a single dull moment even as thousands of idols were waiting in line for the grand finale. A police officer at the spot estimated that completing the task and clearing the area would end only by Friday noon. As twilight approached, security measures intensified, with female staff monitoring and checking the proceedings. A few youth were counselled and warned before being released. Amidst the jubilation, littering was a concern, but a group of seven young volunteers in red t-shirts and gloves stepped forward and set a fine humane example. They dedicated five hours to clean up whatever they could, exemplifying the spirit of community service. "We wish we could stay all day long, but our number is still small and we saw how our cleaning motivated some not to litter. That difference in approach made our day," said Mohammed Asif, a volunteer. Secretariat and Eat Street saw a good number of people making videos of their experiences for the sake of posterity. "I saw people from various faiths joining the celebrations, which bears testimony to the citys famed Ganga-Jamuna Tehzeeb," said Shreya Aiyar, a student. US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti. (File Image: DC) New Delhi: The US Mission in India on Thursday surpassed its goal of processing one million non-immigrant visa applications this year and said that Indians now represent over 10 per cent of all visa applicants worldwide, including 20 per cent of all student visa applicants and 65 per cent of all H&L-category (employment) visa applicants. The number of visa applications processed in India are 20 per cent more than the numbers processed in pre-Covid 2019 and 2022 and Indians made over one in 10 applications worldwide, the embassy said. US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti personally handed over the one millionth visa to a couple, who will be heading to the United States to attend their son's graduation at MIT. Dr Ranju Singh, senior consultant, Lady Hardinge College was elated at receiving an email from the US Embassy about hers being the one millionth visa this year. Her husband Puneet Dargan, was granted the next visa. The couple will be travelling to the US in May 2024. Greeting the couple as "Mr and Mrs One million", Ambassador Garcetti enquired about their travel plans to the US and made suggestions about what not to miss in the country as a tourist. "I couldn't be happier today, happy for India, Indians and the United States. Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi and President (Joe) Biden had said let's do a better job in moving faster on the visas and so the Ministry of External Affairs here approved more bodies in places like Hyderabad...more people who can work on these visas, we changed our systems, we worked harder and smarter and we hit a million visa applications processed this year," the ambassador said. "Our partnership with India is one of the United States' most important bilateral relationships, and in fact one of the most important relationships in the world. The ties between our people are stronger than ever, and we will continue our record-setting volume of visa work in the coming months to give as many Indian applicants as possible the opportunity to travel to the United States and experience the US-India friendship firsthand," he added. The mission has already surpassed the total number of cases processed in 2022 and is processing almost 20 per cent more applications than in pre-pandemic 2019. Dr Singh said, "We got an email after we had finished our visa interviews that we are supposed to collect our visas, we were told that we were the one millionth...the ambassador meeting us in person was a great moment for us. We are looking forward to going to the US, we will be there at MIT to celebrate our son's proud day and then explore the country as tourists." Dargan informed that their son is currently pursuing his Masters in Financial Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). "This will be our first trip to the US. We are really looking forward to it," he said. Last year over 1.2 million Indians visited the United States. Indians now represent over 10 per cent of all visa applicants worldwide, including 20 per cent of all student visa applicants and 65 per cent of all H&L-category (employment) visa applicants. According to a statement by the US Embassy here, recognising the continued high demand for US visas, the United States continues to invest heavily in its operations in India. "In the past year, the mission has expanded its staffing to facilitate more visa processing than ever before. The mission has made significant capital improvements to existing facilities, such as the US Consulate in Chennai, and has inaugurated a new consulate building in Hyderabad. "The mission has also implemented strategies to increase efficiency, extending interview waiver eligibility to new visa categories and utilising remote work to allow staff around the world to contribute to Indian visa processing. Early next year, the mission plans to implement a pilot program that would allow domestic visa renewal for qualified H&L-category employment visa applicants," it said. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (R) and Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar speak to the press before talks in the Treaty Room of the State Department in Washington, DC, on September 28, 2023. (AFP) Washington: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday met US Secretary of State Antony Blinken here and discussed ways to further the bilateral ties, amid the diplomatic row between India and Canada over the killing of a Khalistani separatist. "Good to be back here. And we, of course, had the prime minister here this summer. Thanks to the US for all the support to the G20 Summit," Jaishankar said while appearing before the media along with Blinken ahead of the meeting held at the State Department. Blinken said he had "very good discussions" over the last few weeks including at the G20 and on the margins of the UN General Assembly session in New York. He said he was looking forward to his discussions with the Indian counterpart. The two leaders did not take any questions from the media. Although officials from both sides are tightlipped about the agenda of the meeting, the latest diplomatic crisis between two of America's friends is expected to come up prominently during the talks. "I will not speak publicly about what Secretary Blinken will say in their meeting before he has a chance to say directly to his counterpart. But, we have consistently engaged with the Indian Government on this question, and I've urged them to cooperate, and that engagement and urge for them to cooperate will continue," State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller said while responding to a question on the diplomatic standoff between India and Canada. Responding to another question, he said will not comment on intelligence matters. While the meeting between the two top diplomats was scheduled much before the Canadian crisis broke out, the US has been urging India to cooperate in the Canadian investigation into the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia early this year. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has alleged that the Indian government was behind the killing of Nijjar on June 18. India had designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020. India has rejected the allegations as "absurd" and "motivated". Jaishankar, who arrived here from New York on Wednesday after addressing the 78th General Assembly session of the United Nations on Tuesday, earlier in the day met US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and discussed the progress in bilateral relations between the two countries and ways to take it forward. "Began my Washington DC visit with a meeting with NSA @JakeSullivan46. Recognised the tremendous progress in our bilateral relationship this year and discussed taking it forward," Jaishankar said in a post on X. He also met US Trade Representative Katherine Tie and discussed the growing economic ties between Washington and New Delhi. "Good to see with US Trade Representative @AmbassadorTai. Spoke about our expanding trade and economic relationship and its broader significance," the minister said in a post on X. During his stay in Washington, the external affairs minister is expected to have a series of meetings with senior officials of the Biden administration, review the progress made between the two countries after the historic State Visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June and talk about other regional and global issues. Murphy USA (NYSE:MUSA) pays an annual dividend of $1.56 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 0.43%. The company has been increasing its dividend for 4 consecutive year(s), indicating that it does not yet have a strong track record of dividend growth. The dividend payout ratio is 6.16%. This payout ratio is at a healthy, sustainable level, below 75%. Based on earnings estimates, MUSA will have a dividend payout ratio of 7.03% next year. This indicates that the company will be able to sustain or increase its dividend. Read our dividend analysis for MUSA. IBM is a multinational technology corporation specializing in computer hardware, middleware and software. The company, headquartered in Armonk, New York, has a presence in over 175 countries and provides hosting and consulting services in various areas, from mainframe computers to nanotechnology. With 297,900 employees worldwide, IBM is consistently ranked among the world's largest employers and is one of 30 companies in the Dow Jones Industrial Average. IBM's rich history dates back to 1911 as the Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company (CTR). Initially, the company was a holding company of manufacturers of record-keeping and measuring systems manufacturers. CTR soon became the leading manufacturer of punch-card systems, and in 1924, CTR changed its name to IBM. During the 1960s and 1970s, the IBM mainframe, powered by the System/360, was the preferred computing platform. During that early decade of computing, IBM produced 80% of computers in the U.S. and 70% worldwide. The company has held the record for the most annual U.S. patents generated by a business for 29 consecutive years, from 1993 to 2021. IBM has 19 research facilities across dozens of countries, making it the world's most significant industrial research organization. The company has been responsible for several technological innovations, including the dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), the automated teller machine (ATM), the hard disk drive, the floppy disk, the magnetic stripe card, the SQL programming language, the relational database and the UPC barcode. IBM employees continue to win recognition for their scientific achievements, including six Nobel Prizes and six Turing Awards. In the 1980s, IBM pioneered the multipurpose microcomputer, which set the standard for personal computers. However, the company began losing market dominance to emerging competitors, leading to downsizing operations and divestments. IBM operates in four distinct segments designed to provide comprehensive technological solutions to its clients. The first segment, software, offers innovative hybrid cloud platforms and software solutions that enable clients to automate, secure and modernize their data-driven environments efficiently. The consulting segment focuses on business transformation and technology implementation and offers a wide range of capabilities to help clients adapt to the fast-changing digital world. The infrastructure segment provides cutting-edge solutions for the hybrid cloud and is the foundation for the hybrid cloud stack, ensuring seamless integration and exceptional performance. Finally, the financing segment offers flexible financing solutions to clients who want to acquire information technology systems, software and services, making it easier and more affordable for them to access the latest and most advanced technological solutions. IBM is the seventh-largest technology company by revenue and the 49th-largest overall. The community of Buncrana has laid Sinead McLaughlin (nee Monteith) to rest after she passed away suddenly on Sunday (September 24). The mother of one fell ill on Ludden Beach at the weekend and emergency services were called to the scene. Sadly, Sinead died in Letterkenny Hospital aged just 48. Sinead is survived by her beloved husband Martin and their daughter, Amy, her younger siblings Sharon and Yvonne and her brother John. She was the first born child of Johnny and Annie Monteith and grew up in Park, County Derry and attended primary school there. Sinead then attended Thornhill in Derry before studying at Portobello College in Dublin. She then worked in Dublin for a short while but returned home and met her husband Martin shortly after in 2003. The pair married in 2013 and welcomed their daughter Amy in 2015. Sinead was loved deeply in the local community and mourners gathered on Wednesday (September 27) at St Mary's Church, Cockhill for requiem mass to say goodbye. Sinead was laid to rest in the adjoining graveyard. Father Bradley held the service and said that few souls bless people the way Sinead did and it only makes losing her more difficult. He explained that Sinead loved music, singing and listening to music. She was part of choirs in Park and then Buncrana. Sinead loved to travel and went abroad often. When Amy was born, the family of three spent holidays in Ireland. The congregation was told that Sinead loved the beach and swam regularly. She was a sociable person and made friends easily but above all, she loved her family. Father Bradley said: "She was devout, and attended mass every Sunday. She was extremely generous- she would give you her last penny. "She had a great life; she worked hard, she partied hard and she prayed hard. Sinead was a joy among us. "She had that beautiful face and vivacious spirit that drew you to her company and made you feel good to be alive on any day or in any season of the year. "She had that natural charm that drew her in turn into the companionship of every age and social bracket from the elderly to children. "She was especially close to her nephews and nieces and of course to her beloved daughter, Amy. "She was one of those infrequent but truly blessed persons for whom human outreach is effortless and communication a natural ingredient of their personality- people instinctively wanted Sinead's company. "All this personal, social and spiritual richness of Sinead's life makes it all the more difficult to let go of her. "She was an outstanding gift and grace. Her presence was so potent and so simply beautiful and gracious that its remembrance will long remain as a living thing among us. "Few souls have that kind of effect on those among whom they live for however long or short a span- but Sinead did." Many also paid their tributes online to Sinead including her friends at the Inishowen Choir of Ages who wrote: "The whole town is so shocked at the passing of Sinead McLaughlin, a totally beautiful human inside and out and a friend to so many. "She was also a treasured member of our Inishowen Choir of Ages, so we are postponing our return until next Wednesday, Oct 4th. We know she would want us to sing as joyfully as if she was there, but just not this week. "She was so kind and open to every person she met, and few will leave a mark like hers. "We send our love to all her family here and in Park, Co. Derry. We were blessed to share her company and she will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace and sing with the Angels Sinead." A spokesperson for the Your Ebrington group,which is organising weekly protests in Ebrington Square in support of local people being consulted about what events should be held at the venue, has criticised the motion passed at yesterday's (Wednesday's) full Derry City and Strabane District Council. They said: "At the full Council meeting (September 27, 2023), Sinn Fein's Christopher Jackson proposed a motion on Ebrington under matters arising. We were over the moon as the motion hadn't been listed as a priority for Councillors via the agenda. "Whilst the motion itself appeared to be a positive step initially, further clarification from Cllr Jackson during the discussion showed the true intentions of the motion." "During the discussion on the motion, Cllr Jackson clarified that, at this time, they were not proposing Council take on responsibilty for anything but events. He said it wasn't practically possible for Council to take ownership of the site at this time. This is the exact opposite of what the motion suggested and what people want to see." "It is clear, from commentary by local councillors, that they all hold great aspirations for the Ebrington site. They believe, in theory, that Ebrington Square should be a great event space but they have absolutely no intentions of taking the responsibility of ownership on for a great many reasons. "We genuinely thought that it would be councillors pushing Council Officers to do something they didn't want to do but it seemed to us that councillors were glad to be let off the hook by the ambiguity of the motion. "We've heard great rhetoric in the past few weeks from politicians about how Ebrington is the 'Peoples Square' and the discussion and motion today could have brought us a step closer to that rhetoric becoming a reality. But sadly, that's not the case. "The Square remains firmly in the hands of unelected civil servants in Belfast and we will be back in Ebrington protesting this Saturday at 2pm." Relatives of a Derry teenager shot and killed by a British soldier over 50 years ago has urged the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) to think hard about what it was doing to victims families. The soldier acussed of shooting Daniel Hegarty passed away last week, leaving the Hegarty family in legal limbo. Daniel was 15 at the time he was shot twice in the head at an army patrol in the Creggan area during Operation Motorman. Following the revealation of the death of Soldier B, the family said they have now been denied justice. Speaking to Derry News on Wednesday, Daniels sister, Margaret (Brady) said the whole family was still in shock. Margaret received the call from the PPS at 5pm on Friday, completely out of the blue. We cant believe it. We werent expecting that news. We thought we were getting a phone call to say they were bringing him to court. The last thing I expected to hear was he had passed away. May God have mercy on him, said Margaret. According to Margaret, the PPS has told her the case is over. They said there will be no prosecution, said Margaret, but technically, there was another soldier involved when Daniel was murdered. There were two statements handed in in 1973 by Soldier A and Soldier B. When we asked about this Soldier A, they actually told me they dont know where he is. They don't even know if he is dead. So, we feel Soldier A has definitely got questions to answer. He could shed more light on Daniels case. I have already asked the authorities where Soldier A is. I remember Mr Lecky [former coroner] God rest him actually saying, Did Soldier A fall off planet earth? They are saying they dont know where he is but yet they have all of these soldiers in the Ballymurphy Inquest and the Bloody Sunday Inquiry but they cant get one soldier to come forward and say, This is what happened that day. Margaret said she had repeatedly asked about Soldier A yet she feels the authorities never even went and checked whether he was living or dead. They should be doing that now, said Margaret. That man might want to clear his conscience. Margaret added that the PPS needed to think hard about what it was doing to victims families. She said: They are part of this and they denied us justice and they can word it whatever way they want in the media, they can wrap it a bow, but they know, they have done it from the day Daniel was murdered, they have helped to cover it up. They have helped to protect those who did it. They need to stop doing it. Stop putting families through hell. It is the families who are suffering. Families have done no wrong. They are asking justifiable questions but they are being treated like criminals. There is an attitude from the authorities of How dare you ask us to do this for you. Get over your brothers death. It is totally wrong what they are doing. They will answer too for covering this murder up. Des Doherty, the Hegarty family solicitor, told Derry News Daniels case demonstrated a massive blot on prosecutorial integrity in this jurisdiction. He added: There is now going to be an erosion of trust and respect for the rule of law that Daniels family clung to. The conduct of the case is a horrifying miscarriage of justice and institutional failure that requires scrutiny as a matter of urgent public importance. In a statement released on Tuesday afternoon, the Hegarty family said: The behaviour of the PPS amounts to nothing more than deliberate and crass maladministration at the highest levels from 1973 to 2023. They acted unlawfully, protecting the interests of Soldier B, the Ministry of Defence and the British Army. A number of critical judgements from senior judges here confirm the unlawfulness of the actions of the PPS. "The effect of all this is to make a mockery of justice, the rule of law, state accountability, fairness and due process. "The behaviour of the PPS has been described by senior judges as irrational. To us it was all deliberate and by design. They never really wanted to prosecute Soldier B for murdering a child. They had to be dragged by us to that position during the course of almost 15 years of painful litigation. Meanwhile, the Hegartys have offered and attended a Mass for the repose of the soul of the British soldier who murdered their brother. The Mass took place in St Marys Church in Creggan on Wednesday. Daniels cousin Thomas also got a Mass said for Soldier B in Manchester. Thomas and his brother Christopher were with Daniel on the day. Christopher was shot in the head and survived and Thomas was dragged away by the British army. Margaret said: At the end of the day, you cant speak ill of the dead. I never would anyway. I dont know if the man ever prayed but if he did and his prayers were from his heart, who is to say God didnt forgive him and let him into heaven. We pray that he is forgiven and thats the way I feel about it. We are all sinners so we have to show a bit of compassion and a bit of forgiveness. Beijing (Gasgoo)- Chinese legacy automaker JAC Group saw a substantial growth in its business performance during the Jan.-Aug. period of this year, according to the companys announcement on September 26. A5 Plus; photo credit: JAC Motor The announcement disclosed that JAC Group realized a total operating revenue of 30.2 billion yuan in the first eight months of this year, representing a 24.26% surge from a year ago. In the meantime, its net profit attributable to shareholders of the parent company came in at roughly 170 million yuan, compared to the net loss of 936 million yuan in the same period last year. This impressive performance is attributed to the continual rise in sales volume and a significant enhancement of JAC Groups market reputation. In August 2023, JAC Group posted a remarkable sales figure of 53,870 vehicles, marking a 19.55% increase compared to the same period last year. Impressively, this marks the seventh consecutive month for the company to achieve a year-on-year growth in sales. From January to August this year, JAC Groups cumulative sales volume reached 383,247 vehicles, jumping 18.27% from a year ago. During the same period, the automakers cumulative export figure stood at 113,230 vehicles, shooting up 64.28% from that of the year-ago period. Little Acorns Bookstore in Derry has been longlisted for the 'An Post Bookshop of the Year' category at this years An Post Irish Book Awards. Twelve bookshops across the country have been longlisted in the annual literary event that celebrates and promotes Irish writing and authors to the widest range of readers possible. The An Post Bookshop of the Year category is designed to acknowledge the significant role played by independent bookshops and local branches of bookshop chains in helping their local communities to find and savour the titles of their choice. Previous winners include Kennys Bookshop and Art Gallery, Galway in 2021 and Bridge Street Books, Wicklow in 2022. The longlist of twelve bookshops around Ireland for 2023 are: Bridge Books Dromore, Co. Down; Bridge Street Books, Wicklow; Castle Book & Card Centre, Castlebar, Mayo; The Clifden Bookshop, Connemara, Galway; Halfway Up the Stairs, Greystones, Wicklow; Kerrs Bookshop Clonakilty, Co. Cork; Liber, Sligo; Little Acorns Bookstore, Derry; Maynooth Bookshop, Kildare; OMahonys Booksellers, Limerick; Tales for Tadpoles, Bray, Wicklow; Tertulia, Westport, Mayo. Customers were asked to vote for their favourite bookshops and to explain the reason for their choice. The bookshops that received the most votes were then longlisted and invited by the judges to enter a written submission. Mystery shoppers will now visit the twelve bookshops as part of the judging process to establish the shortlist of six bookshops. The shortlist will be officially announced on the 19th October. ]The overall winner of An Post Bookshop of the Year will be presented with their trophy at the An Post Irish Book Awards event on 22nd November along with a prize worth 15,000 from An Post Commerce. Each year, the An Post Irish Book Awards bring together a vast community passionate about books readers, authors, booksellers, publishers and librarians to recognise the very best of new and established Irish writing talent and 2023 will be no different. Other categories in the An Post Irish Book Awards include Novel of the Year, Childrens (Junior and Senior), Cookery, Crime Fiction, Popular Fiction, Non-fiction, Sports, Short Story, Poetry, Teen and Young Adult and Irish Language. Brendan Corbett, Chairperson of the An Post Irish Book Awards, said: Bookshops are at the core of communities all throughout Ireland and act as a cultural and social hub for many. We introduced this category to highlight the significant role Irish bookshops play, not only to their communities and readers, but also to the Irish book business. Im delighted to see such deserving bookshops on the longlist and wish them all the best of luck. Jenni Doherty pictured in her book store at Gt. James Street, Derry. (Photo: Jim McCafferty Photography) Chair of Bookselling Ireland, Dawn Behan, said: Booksellers have such an important role connecting readers with books they love and it truly is wonderful to see them getting recognition. Bookshops foster a love of reading in communities, especially for those new to the word of literature, helping them find titles they will enjoy. The An Post Bookshop of the Year award acknowledges Irish bookshops and its great to see such a diverse longlist. Commenting on the important role bookshops play in local communities, Garrett Bridgeman, Managing Director of An Post Mails & Parcels said: Bookshops are an integral part of local and wider communities throughout Ireland as their accessibility with ecommerce has changed immensely in recent years. Bookshops open up a world of possibilities for every age and are a place of joy, solace and enjoyment for so many people. Here at An Post Commerce we are proud to work with bookshops across Ireland and we celebrate the twelve bookshops listed here and all that they represent. The shortlist for all categories in the An Post Irish Book Awards 2023 will be announced on 19th October, while the winners will be announced on Wednesday 22nd November. A television programme will be broadcast on RTE One television in December and will culminate in one of the 2023 winning titles being announced as the An Post Irish Book of the Year 2023. An Post is also continuing with their hugely successful #ReadersWanted campaign, celebrating the value and joy of reading and encouraging everyone to pick up more books, more often. Simply search for the hashtag online to get involved. A man charged with affray in connection with an incident in which 19-year-old Jordan McConomy died has been found not guilty after a trial at Derry Crown Court. Dane McKeever (24) of Fahan Street in Derry had faced one charge of causing an affray on September 24 2017 the night Jordan McConomy died in William Street. After a three day trial the jury was sent out this morning and after slightly more than 40 minutes they indicated they had a verdict. The foreperson told the court they had arrived an unanimous verdict of not guilty. During the trial the jury had been shown CCTV footage of several incidents in the William Street area involving the deceased man. McKeever had always maintained he had no real recollection of the incident apart from throwing someone over his shoulder. He said he could remember someone 'roaring' into his face but not much else. Following the verdict Judge Philip Babington said that it was 'a particularly sad case' and offered his condolences to the McConomy family. Sinn Fein vice-president Michelle ONeill has said Belfast is undergoing a social and cultural renaissance as the Roddy McCorley Republican heritage centre reopens following a multimillion-pound refurbishment. A number of Sinn Fein representatives including former party president Gerry Adams and Belfast Lord Mayor Ryan Murphy attended the reopening event on Thursday. The Roddy McCorley Republican heritage centre is operated by the Roddy McCorley society, which was founded in West Belfast in 1972. The museum hosts a collection of artefacts and memorabilia curated by the society over the past 40 years, documenting the Republican history of Belfast. The newly refurbished heritage centre now also hosts a bar and restaurant. Speaking at the reopening, Ms ONeill said the heritage centre was embedded in the community. She added: I think whats really the success of the centre itself has been the fact that its been so embraced by the local community itself, like its embedded in the local community itself. And the community of West Belfast remains as strong now as it did back in 1972 whenever you were formed. Ms ONeill said the museum played a part in the social and cultural renaissance taking place across communities in Belfast. Whenever I think about the centre, this magnificent centre, I think it now symbolises the progress and the transformation in the community, in this anniversary year as we celebrate 25 years of the Good Friday Agreement, she said. So the museum here is quite special. Its certainly unique. Firstly, because of the collection of artefacts, memorabilia, its so extensive, but also because its curated by the society itself which captures the complexity and the experience of struggle since the foundation of Irish Republicanism itself. It charts the historic relationship between Ireland and Britain through colonialism, partition political division, and then the contemporary era of the peace process of the 1990s and the changing political landscape thats now emerging. And whenever I reflect on just society generally now I think that theres something of a social and cultural renaissance taking place across parts of the city including East Belfast, where there, the cultural richness of the Irish language is being reclaimed through tours, classes, and more, with cultural connections now being made to the Gaeltacht quarter in the West. The fine Republican philosophy of Wolfe Tone in uniting Catholic, Protestant and dissenter is being rediscovered, and now any weekend you can take yourself along to one of the 1798 tours in town. Our own Tom Hartley, in the room, also continues to showcase his writings and cemetery tours The history of Belfast and has done incredible work to help us to understand the radical role played by Presbyterians in all of this. She added: I think this represents a new Belfast, being true to its past yet also moving forward, inclusive of new communities, new cultures, and the rainbow of colours that now make up this great city. Mr Murphy said the heritage centre was a shining example of what a positive community and neighbourhood regeneration project looks like. We arent afraid to talk about the past, but crucially we do it as we look to the future, he said. To a Belfast which has a unique tapestry made up of various strands of culture, language, history and heritage. A Belfast where people are proud of where they came from. A Belfast where people have the space and a place to be able to tell their story. Chair and director of the Roddy McCorley Society, David McGivern, said the refurbished centre was the physical manifestation of the members dreams. This beautiful space we now call our own is a testament to the dedication, hard work and unwavering support of many individuals and organisations, he said. It represents not only bricks and mortar, but a living testament to the collective commitment and unyielding perseverance of what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision and a common purpose. He added: The new development will boost the local economy, it will create jobs and training opportunities and showcase the unique heritage of the surrounding area. The Roddy McCorley heritage centre is situated on the Glen Road in West Belfast. Hsinchu, Taiwan - September 28, 2023 -- M31 Technology Corporation (M31), a global professional silicon intellectual property (IP) provider today announced that Jayanta, VP of Technical Marketing of M31 Technology, presented a speech on "Driving AIoT Innovation - M31 Low-Power IP" at the TSMC North America 2023 Open Innovation Platform (OIP) Ecosystem Forum, showcasing M31's low-power silicon intelligence (IP) solution on TSMC's N12e process technology, which has been recognized with TSMC's Specialty Process IP Partner Award for the seventh time. Today, Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) has demonstrated significant commercial potential in both technology and application domains. The applications of AIoT have expanded from smartphones and tablets to encompass home appliances, factories, healthcare devices, and autonomous vehicles. With the continuous advancement of advanced process technologies, areas such as 5G communication and high-speed computing have become key directions for development. As a long-term and close partner of TSMC, M31 has been recognized almost every year with the TSMC OIP Partner of the Year Award for Special Process IP, recognizing M31's outstanding performance in IP development and services. In the wave of developing AI-powered IoT devices and other high-efficiency, high-performance edge device applications, M31 is closely following the footsteps of TSMC's N12e process technology to address the diverse design requirements of the AIoT market in terms of speed, power, and cost-area. M31 has developed a series of low-power IP solutions that support higher performance, improved power efficiency, and lower leakage power requirements, including low-power Memory Compiler, Standard Cell Library, General Purpose Input/Output Library (GPIO). M31 has introduced two types of low-power memory solutions with different characteristics: Low VDD Memory and Ultra Low Leakage (ULL) Memory. The Low VDD Memory supports low voltage of 0.6V and provides four low-power modes and Dynamic Voltage and Frequency Scaling (DVFS) technology, and ensures stability during low-voltage operation through M31's read/write assist techniques. On the other hand, M31's ULL Memory utilizes TSMC's ULL bit-cell technology, significantly improving static low-power performance to achieve energy-efficient design goals. Furthermore, customers can leverage M31's competitive standard cell libraries and combine them with power management and low-power optimization packages to shorten development cycles, enhance module precision, and are particularly suitable for various AIoT designs. Jayanta, VP of Technical Marketing at M31, said, " We are honored to participate in TSMC's annual event, and to receive TSMC's OIP Partner of the Year award once again. M31's close and in-depth strategic partnership with TSMC is evident in the advancement of innovative IP for AIoT applications. In the future, M31 will continue to provide customers with leading-edge design solutions through continuous collaboration and technology innovation with TSMC, playing a pivotal role in the rapid development of the AIoT field. About M31 Technology M31 Technology Corporation (6643-TW) is a professional silicon intellectual property (IP) provider. M31 is honored to have received the TSMC Open Innovation Platform Partner of the Year award for Specialty Process IP for five years in a row. The company was founded in 2011 with its headquarters in Hsinchu, Taiwan. By virtue of substantial experiences in IP development, IC design, electronic design automation fields, and IP integration service, the main products include High-Speed Interface IP designs such as USB, PCIe, MIPI, SATA, and SerDes; Foundation IP such as standard cell library, memory compiler, GPIO, and OPPA library solutions; Analog IP such as ADC, PLL, LDO, and PVT sensor. And continue to expand product portfolios such as processor hardcore IP as well as integration of interface PHY and controller. Learn more at m31tech.com China tries to reduce geopolitical risks for EV supply chain As the political tension between China and the US continues, the Chinese government is enhancing the country's EV supply chain to avoid battery technology outflow and learn critical techniques from foreign companies. Japan-based Yomiuri reported that the Chinese government asked local EV companies to source chips and other electronics domestically. The government will establish a scheme to verify their procurement. The move was seen as the country's effort to set up a self-sufficient EV supply chain covering raw materials to vehicle production. According to China-based research firms, the country's automotive component market value was about CNY3.88 trillion (US$534 billion) in 2022. The value is expected to reach CNY4.8 trillion in 2028. The Chinese automotive industry currently uses parts primarily from European, US and Japanese suppliers. China-based companies are learning techniques through their joint ventures with foreign partners and improving their capability of producing components. The goal is to eliminate the reliance on supply chains outside China. The Chinese government has also closely monitored the EV battery segment. According to sources from China, the country's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology asked battery maker CATL to establish 100%-owned subsidiaries when investing overseas to avoid technology outflow. CATL has been constructing plants in Germany, Hungary and Indonesia since 2019. Japanese media reported that a Japanese company sold its shares in a China-based EV maker under the pressure of the Chinese government. In addition to EVs and batteries, China also intends to ban rare earth alloy exports. According to Nikkei, China's Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Science and Technology released a list of items banned or restricted from export at the end of 2022. The list includes 43 additional and revised items, including those for rare earth alloy refining and processing. For example, the high-performance magnet used in electric motors requires rare earth alloy to produce. The technique for making the alloy was one of the items banned or restricted from export. The list will become effective in 2023 at the earliest. China also tries to build a more comprehensive semiconductor supply chain. Due to the export restriction on advanced semiconductor techniques and equipment imposed by the US, Japan and the Netherlands, China has focused on developing chips made on mature process. The country has invested many resources in semiconductor equipment to increase the self-production rate. China has made progress in chips made on advanced process. Huawei's newly launched smartphone, Mate 60 Pro, uses Kirin 9000s, likely a 7nm technology chip produced by SMIC through multi-exposure using DUV lithography machines. According to Chinese media reports, over 90% of suppliers for the Mate 60 Pro are based in China. ASML to establish a base in Japan in support of Rapidus The Dutch company ASML, which manufactures EUV lithography equipment and other types of photolithography equipment, has decided to establish a support base for semiconductor production in the vicinity of Chitose City, Hokkaido, Japan, in the latter half of 2024. This location is where the Rapidus factory is being built, aiming to achieve 2nm mass production. According to reports from Kyodo News and Nikkei, amid geopolitical tensions, Japan is strengthening its domestic semiconductor production, leading to various semiconductor-related companies from different countries setting up operations in Japan. ASML's EUV lithography equipment are essential for commercializing chips below 5-7nm. Therefore, in order to support Rapidus, which plans to trial-produce 2 nm chips in 2025, ASML will establish a presence in the latter half of 2024 with around 4050 technical personnel to assist in setting up EUV lithography equipment in the new factory and provide subsequent maintenance support. If Rapidus begins production, Japan will become the fifth country to introduce EUV lithography equipment, joining the United States, Taiwan, South Korea, and Ireland. In addition to Hokkaido, ASML is also assisting TSMC in the construction of a 12-inch wafer factory in Kumamoto, Japan. In September 2023, ASML relocated its technical support base to Kumamoto and increased the number of engineers fourfold, from about 10 to approximately 40. Over the next five years, starting in 2023, ASML plans to increase its personnel in Japan by 40%, from the current 400 people to around 560 people by around 2028. Apart from ASML, Applied Materials also plans to increase its workforce in Japan by 60%. To support Rapidus, Lam Research will establish a semiconductor equipment logistics base in Hokkaido. Belgium's microelectronics research center, Imec, is also planning to establish new bases in Tokyo and Hokkaido. To prepare for the launch of a 2nm chip trial production line in 2025, Rapidus is rapidly constructing a factory in Chitose City, Hokkaido. According to the architectural project outline submitted by Rapidus to the Hokkaido government, the first factory under construction, "IIM-1," has a floor area of approximately 54,000 square meters, is four stories high with a height of about 31 meters, and has a total usage area of 159,000 square meters, including electrical facilities. "IIM-1" is expected to introduce 2 nm chip trial production equipment by December 2024, with the trial production line starting operations in April 2025. The land for the second factory, "IIM-2," next to "IIM-1," has also been reserved. It is planned to be built after 2 nm chip mass production begins in 2027, for the production of chips below 2nm. Audrey Tang, Andrew Ng share insights on Taiwan's strengths and AI regulation AI expert Andrew Ng made a visit to Taiwan to take part in a series of forums, where he recently shared the stage with Audrey Tang, the Minister of Digital Affairs. They engaged in extensive discussions concerning AI models and regulations. Andrew Ng highlighted Taiwan's advantage in having a concentration of precision manufacturing industries, a strength that Silicon Valley lacks. In contrast, Audrey Tang advocated the growing prevalence of edge computing. Back in 2018, Foxconn Group announced a collaboration with Andrew Ng's Landing AI to develop industrial AI applications. During his visit to Taiwan, Andrew Ng didn't delve into the progress of their collaboration but occasionally mentioned cooperative efforts between his team and other Taiwanese entities. These collaborations included the utilization of Landing AI software for aiding cosmic ray detection at the physics department of National Cheng Kung University, as well as partnerships with Taiwanese companies specializing in material classification. His other venture, DeepLearning.AI, also maintains engineering teams in Taiwan. When asked about how Taiwan, with its semiconductor industry advantage, can advance AI development, Andrew Ng pointed out that many profound AI technological advancements have traditionally been centered in Silicon Valley. However, given the rapid pace of technological progress, existing norms are being rewritten, and now anyone can participate without being too late to the game. He believes that Taiwan should capitalize on its existing strengths, particularly its concentration of precision manufacturing industries, which Silicon Valley lacks. He also recommended that Taiwan leverage its robust hardware industry to progressively fortify its software sector. Audrey Tang emphasized the escalating importance of data privacy and cybersecurity. With the advancement of Generative AI technology, previously effective techniques like de-identification and partial masking, used for safeguarding personal data, have become less potent. The government is tightening regulations related to personal data protection, and the Ministry of Digital Affairs is actively seeking extensive input regarding the ethical use of non-personal data. Cryptographic technologies like zero-knowledge proof are emerging as new trends, and they rely on advanced chip manufacturing techniques that facilitate the accelerated implementation of these encryption algorithms. Audrey Tang also brought up the "infodemic" phenomenon during the COVID-19 pandemic, characterized by the rapid spread of false information, leading to societal panic. Social media platforms also shoulder a degree of responsibility in this context, and she stressed the necessity of transparency in algorithms and mechanisms for holding them accountable. Regarding regulatory matters, Andrew Ng pointed out that in the United States, the government has limited control over private enterprises, and there are few avenues for both the government and the public to gain insights into technology-related risks. For instance, the Cambridge Analytica data manipulation incident only came to light years after it occurred. He also noted that in Silicon Valley, a small group of companies is currently utilizing Generative AI for potentially concerning projects. Therefore, he stressed the importance of carefully planning regulatory approaches for AI. Nevertheless, he cautioned that in certain countries, regulatory mechanisms that exclusively serve the interests of a select few can be more detrimental than a lack of regulation. Both Andrew Ng and Audrey Tang discussed the utilization of open-source models from companies like Meta and subsequently fine-tuning them. Audrey Tang further underscored the imperative of democratizing AI and making it accessible for edge applications. She contended that rather than relying on a few large data centers with all the world's AI computing power, we should bolster technologies associated with edge AI. This approach would enable everyone to use AI as an auxiliary technology to address their specific needs. She emphasized that nobody would want to transmit sensitive data to the cloud, particularly without robust encryption safeguards. Consequently, edge computing and model fine-tuning are poised to become more prevalent. In this context, the capability to fine-tune models assumes paramount importance. Even if models exhibit biases and lack transparency, individual practitioners can find ways to enhance them. Audrey Tang mentioned that she personally employs open-source models for fine-tuning on her MacBook. Audrey Tang's viewpoints align with recent industry conversations surrounding AI-powered PCs. Microsoft has introduced an array of AI assistant features in the Windows operating system, while Apple has not overtly emphasized AI in PCs. Nevertheless, former Google Taiwan CEO Lee-Feng Chien has posited that Microsoft and Apple should be at the forefront of the AI-powered PC wave. As software innovations accelerate, significant changes in PC hardware design are expected. India eyes modernization of state-owned chip fabrication agency to restore its former glory As India strives to build localized semiconductor manufacturing capabilities, the South Asian country is looking to find partners for its government-owned chip fabrication lab, which was once India's sole commercial foundry in the 20th century. According to The Economic Times and Business Standard, the Indian government reportedly formed a committee and issued an expression of interest to look for commercial and technology partners with the necessary technological and operational expertise to modernize the Semiconductor Lab (SCL), located in Mohali near Chandigarh. India unveiled the INR760 billion (US$9.12 billion) India Semiconductor Mission and earmarked part of the budget to rebuild SCL, which was once India's sole commercial semiconductor foundry in the 1980s until it was destroyed by a fire in 1989. SCL restarted operation in 1997 and was turned into a government-owned research agency, making thousands of 200mm wafers a month for space missions based on 180nm process node. According to the reports, India plans to transform SCL into an R&D-led Center of Excellence with R&D capabilities covering areas including fabrication on advanced nodes, advanced packaging, compound semiconductors, design and EDA tools, and materials. Analytics India Magazine quoted Arun Mampazhy, a semiconductor analyst, saying that India's path to achieving semiconductor self-sufficiency depends on the revival of SCL. Meanwhile, Ravindra Prakash Dubey, founder and president of IITian4Nation, told Analytics India Magazine that when pursuing modernization, it should be closely linked to effective commercialization, which naturally requires the participation of diverse industry players, encompassing customers, financial institutions, and with research institutions and universities, without which genuine achievement of commercialization is not feasible. 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. Beijing (Gasgoo)- The Beijing High-level Automated Driving Demonstration Area (BJHAD) recently released a notice regarding the airport highway test roads and test areas. WeRide, the Chinese autonomous driving solution provider, has taken the lead in obtaining qualifications to test autonomous vehicles on the demonstration zone's high-speed roads. Photo credit: WeRide With the announcement of the new airport highway testing scenario, WeRide is strategically positioning itself to accelerate its road-testing efforts along the airport highway, steadily progressing towards the demonstration stage with passengers on board. Furthermore, during the 2023 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference, Beijing introduced autonomous driving shuttle services from Beijing Capital International Airport Terminal 3 to the China International Exhibition Center (Shunyi Pavilion). WeRide was granted access to the Capital Airport highway, offering VIP shuttle services for conference attendees, covering a round trip of over 17 kilometers. This successful deployment addressed various autonomous driving challenges, from low-speed urban areas to high-speed highways, significantly expanding the scope of fixed-route autonomous shuttle services. Airport shuttle services play a pivotal role in urban transportation, serving business travelers, tourists, those visiting family, and friends. WeRide is now set to systematically conduct road tests from Beijings Yizhuang area to Beijing Daxing International Airport, covering diverse urban and highway scenarios, with the highway segment extending approximately 40 kilometers. WeRide, which officially obtained approval for autonomous road testing in the BJHAD in October 2022, has thrived in the city's inclusive and business-friendly environment. The company has rapidly entered the demonstration operation stage with fully unmanned Robotaxis. Today, within the 225-square-kilometer core area of Beijing's Yizhuang district, citizens can download the WeRide Go App and summon fully autonomous Robotaxis, reaching various destinations like subway stations, central business districts, and large office parks. Are you lost in the wild? Sorry, but the page you're looking for has not been found Try checking the URL for errors, goto home or try to search below. Ireland faces a battle to maintain a nitrates derogation for farmers and avoid the devastating imposition of standard EU limits, the Taoiseach has warned. Ireland is one of three EU member states that has a derogation to enable some farmers to work to a higher nitrate limit than is applied in the rest of the bloc. For most of the 27 EU countries, they have a limit of 170kg organic nitrogen per hectare (N/ha). Farmers in Ireland have been allocated a derogation of 250kg N/ha, but this is to be reduced to 220kg N/ha from January due to poor water quality recorded. Farmers have raised concerns about the cut, arguing that it will affect their ability to make a living and lead to a reduction in herd numbers. They insist it will not have a major impact on improving water quality. The Government has conceded that the EU Commission is not prepared to rethink the reduction from 250kg to 220kg N/ha. However, ministers have stressed the importance of retaining the 220kh N/ha when the current four-year derogation is reviewed ahead of its expiry at the end of 2025. Addressing the Seanad on Thursday, Leo Varadkar said it was vital that a further derogation is secured for 2026 onward. We have a real fight in our hands I think, to hang on to the 220, he said. That has to be a big priority between now and 2025. Mr Varadkar said a reduction close to the 170 kg N/ha limit would be devastating for family farm incomes and really damaging to our economy and our export industry. He highlighted that the impact would extend beyond the farm gate, to businesses linked to farms and the wider economy. But we will have a battle on our hands, he added. You know, we might be the only country that has it (a derogation) and we need 27 countries to vote for us. And a lot of them see it as a competitive advantage for us. So we need to bear that in mind. We need to win the votes on this. And that means convincing those countries that we are serious about improving our water quality and our environmental sustainability standards too. Mr Varadkar confirmed that EU Commissioner for the Environment Virginijus Sinkevicius has agreed to visit Ireland to discuss the issue. I look forward to meeting him, I hope he will come and visit a farm. Im not sure if hell be able to or not, but I look forward to meeting with him to talk about that and any other flexibilities that we might be able to achieve, he added. Two Louth projects have received funding under the International Decade for People of African Descent Funding Call to support organisations hosting events to mark the International Decade for People of African Descent and celebrate the diverse culture and heritage of people of African descent. Ait na nDaoine, a Dundalk based community organisation received 5,000 for a project celebrating the culture and heritage of People of African Descent. Meanwhile, Phase Innovate who are also based in Louth received 5,000 for a project entitled Miss Tech Africa: Empowering Young Women in Technology and Community Development. Nationally, The Minister of State for Community Development, Integration and Charities, Joe OBrien, announced the 35 projects set to receive funding under the International Decade for People of African Descent Funding Call. Through this Fund, a total of 169,740 was made available Welcoming the announcement, Minister OBrien said: This broad range of events will engage and help enlighten communities across the country about the Decade and its importance. It will help to animate the richness of Irish society that is often not fully appreciated but also give a platform to voices that dont always get space and time to express themselves. The UN General Assembly proclaimed an International Decade for People of African Descent, effective through 2015-2024 under resolution 68/237. The resolution proclaims a need to strengthen national, regional and international cooperation in order to encourage the full enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by People of African Descent. The theme of the Decade is People of African descent: recognition, justice and development. The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth grant funds the International Decade for People of African Descent Ireland (IDPADI) Steering Committee to advance the celebration of the Decade. The Taoiseach has expressed a desire for government to be less cautious in its approach to policymaking. Leo Varadkar also warned of the potential for multinational companies that invest so heavily in Ireland to relocate elsewhere if the state fails to sustain an environment that allows them to prosper. Mr Varadkar also cautioned future governments not to raid an infrastructure fund being created by the current coalition with part of the multibillion-euro tax surplus generated by the multinationals. The Taoiseach made the comments as he fielded questions at an event at Grant Thorntons offices in Dublin to mark the opening of the professional services firms new Mobius workspace area, which has been designed to improve collaboration with clients. During the event, the Fine Gael leader reflected on his time in government and was also pressed on his priorities for the forthcoming Budget. Mr Varadkar said the economy had bounced back from the banking crisis, Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic faster than expected. I think if I knew what I know now, there are decisions that we made that we would have made sooner, he said. So, we really ramped up capital spending and investment in infrastructure since 2018. If wed known that we were going to bounce back so well and so quickly, both from the crisis 12 years ago and from the pandemic, we would have done more sooner, which is why Ive spoken before about one of the biggest risks I think in policymaking is excessive caution. And youve always got civil servants and advisory bodies advising caution, but theres a cost to excessive caution and among the things that would have been done in those early years, and they had to be done, was slashing the budgets for things like housing and transport. And theres a cost to that and we can see what that cost is. He added: The way I think about it is in 12 years Ive served in government, weve had three major external shocks one the global financial crisis and the banking crisis here; the second was Brexit; and the third was the pandemic. And in all three occasions we bounced back much more quickly and much more strongly than we thought would be the case, than anyone thought would be the case. So thats kind of got me to the space where I think we need to be less cautious about decisions we make for the future and more ambitious. Of course, the time will come when that doesnt happen, by the way. That will come when it comes, and we wont bounce back as quickly as we hope to. Thats why we need to build resilience. An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar officially opened our new collaboration hub The Mobius today. A dedicated space for our people and clients to meet and network in a city centre location. Read more: https://t.co/7vCFvtgYmI pic.twitter.com/QbsRKQU6lK Grant Thornton Ire (@GrantThorntonIE) September 28, 2023 Mr Varadkar said the Government would use the surplus to build that resilience. He said it would be partly used to bring down the debt with money also diverted to two new funds one to address future pension costs and the second an infrastructure reserve, which future governments could use to maintain spending on capital projects at times of economic difficulty. What weve done historically in Ireland is when we get into economic trouble, its the capital budgets that get cut fastest because thats understandable, he said. Its much easier to delay a new road or delay a metro or delay a school building than cut peoples pay and welfare and increase taxes. So, the whole idea of this (infrastructure) fund is that itll be counter-cyclical and if and when we do have the next downturn, the next time the public finances go into significant deficit, that we will then be able to draw on that fund to bolster capital spending, or at least maintain capital spending at the same levels. The big challenge for whoever is in government at that time, and I dont know when thats going to be, but at some point there will be another recession, and the public finances will be in the red, the challenge for the people at that time will be to not raid those funds for other things. And thats going to be the test whenever it comes. Mr Varadkar said he could not predict whether he would still be in government when the next economic downturn happened. I dont know when the next major economic crisis is going to come, he said. Or when the next downturn will happen. I do hope, if it isnt me, its people who think like me, who were there at the time. I would fear the decisions that others might make if they were genuinely faced with dealing with a crisis, given their history. Mr Varadkar said the Budget would prioritise three areas those struggling with the cost-of-living crisis; support for small businesses; and measures to tackle child poverty. On Irelands chronic housing shortages, the Taoiseach said current supply was meeting demand in terms of the population rises Ireland was experiencing. He said the problems stemmed from the lack of homes built during the post-crash years of 2010-2017. I think supply is probably at the point where its meeting demand, the problem is we have a deficit, he said. Delighted to officially open the @GrantThorntonIE Mobius Hub today. The firm is ahead of growth targets and is expanding its workforce pic.twitter.com/WaIFeNlzTn Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) September 28, 2023 Mr Varadkar was also asked about entrepreneurship and whether Ireland took multinational investment for granted. He insisted his Government did not take it for granted. My concern, and I dont want to get too political on this, is that there are people in Ireland who I think do take FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) for granted, he said. And just think itll be there to pay for staff, and pay the taxes and carry out the investments, no matter how restricted. And one thing a very wealthy person said to me once, he said to me, Ill never forget it, I was a first-time minister at the time, he said to me wealth goes where it wants to and stays where its treated well. And if we were to stop treating multinationals well and stop treating business well, whether its big or small, money and jobs and trade will go elsewhere. At Thursdays event at its City Quay offices, Grant Thornton Ireland announced that it was ahead of its planned growth targets. The firm said turnover will hit 300 million euro by the end of the year, while its workforce has grown to 3,000, with half of those roles created in the past two years. The American dream; it is the belief that anyone can achieve their own vision of success, find opportunities no matter where they are and above all, have the inalienable right to happiness, ju Read moreDream for some, nightmare for others: New CCA exhibit, El Sueno Americano, documents migrant stories through personal belongings Church leaders from the island of Ireland will attend a seminar in Rome to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement. In a shared statement they said the visit is taking place at a time of great concern for the state of our fragile peace. The Church Leaders Group, which includes leaders from the Church of Ireland, the Methodist and Presbyterian churches in Ireland, the Roman Catholic Church and the Irish Council of Churches, will share their personal reflections on the anniversary during a visit to Rome. The seminar will take place in the Pontifical Irish College and will also explore the role that churches and faith-based leaders play in peace-making and reconciliation. The two-day visit begins with a joint church service on Thursday at the Chiesa Evangelica Valdese, the Waldensian Evangelical Church in Romes Piazza Cavour. The Good Friday Agreement established a new political system in Northern Ireland and largely ended conflict and violence in the region. The 25th anniversary of the signing has been celebrated in a range of events so far this year, including the Agreement 25 conference at Queens University. In a joint statement the church leaders said their visit to Rome was an opportunity to reflect on the past 25 years, but also to look to the future of peace in Northern Ireland. They said the Good Friday Agreement was not the end of the peace journey in the region. We welcome the opportunity this special seminar affords us to share our collective thoughts and personal reflections at such an influential gathering, as it comes at a time when we have great concern for the state of our fragile peace, they said. As we remark in the foreword to this mornings Order of Service, We must remember that the signing of the Agreement was not the end of the journey to peace in Northern Ireland. It simply marked the first faltering steps down a very long road to a new, brighter, and shared future shaped by tolerance and respect for our differences, and a recognition of the need for greater understanding and reconciliation. The church leaders added that the Good Friday Agreement had saved lives in Northern Ireland. They said: We are thankful to God that the Agreement that was negotiated a quarter of a century ago, while not perfect, transformed the conflict in Northern Ireland, resulting in countless lives being saved. It is our prayer that todays seminar, and our participation along with others, will contribute to a wider understanding of where we have come from and the hope that we have for the future, when communities agree to come together. The church leaders further stated that their visit was a commitment to the future of peace and reconciliation. As individual Christians, and as leaders in our respective Christian traditions, we are committed to working towards a vision of an island of restored relationships, where all can flourish and fully participate in our common life, they said. This is our shared commitment to reconciliation and peacebuilding on the island of Ireland. While we continue to recognise the obvious challenges that there are, we want to acknowledge once more that the important and vital work of peace is still an unfinished work, a work that we are all committed to actively pursuing for the common good, for all the people of Ireland, north and south. Speaking ahead of the visit, the British ambassador to the Holy See Chris Trott and the Irish ambassador to the Holy See Frances Collins said they were delighted to welcome the church leaders in Ireland to Rome. For decades, the churches have played an important role in supporting peace and reconciliation, including in preparing the ground for the successful negotiation of the agreement, facilitating inter-community dialogue and in their ecumenical work, which promoted a deeper understanding of the root causes of the conflict, they said. Their invaluable work continues today, as they support and guide communities across Northern Ireland navigating the very serious challenges of living in a post-conflict society. Speakers at the seminar will include the Rt Rev Andrew Forster, president of the Irish Council of Churches, the Most Rev Eamon Martin, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, and the Most Rev John McDowell, Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland. Before returning on Friday the church leaders will have a number of additional meetings with Christian organisations and lunch with the British and Irish ambassadors to the Holy See. With the fall school semester having already started or soon to get under way in most of the U.S., school safety is top of mind, with what to do in the case of a school shooting becoming a regular part of planning.Last year, there were 47 school shootings. That's just shy of the previous yea For most of us, our pets are beloved family members who make the day a little brighter. And with the crazy and challenging times were living in currently we need them now more than ever. Read moreAnimal Welfare: Emergency pet preparation: Safeguarding your furry family members I believe that retirement is not the end of your life but the beginning of your new one. It was just that it was seen negatively as it is associated with old age. We all could retire at any age as long as we have secure financial capabilities like living on passive income or savings. [] The seizure by a Joint Task Force of Gardai, Customs and the Irish Defence Forces of 2.2tonnes of cocaine after a dramatic boarding of the MV Matthew off the coast of Waterford on Tuesday has been described as the "largest seizure in the history of the State". A conservative estimate of the street value of this weeks haul is put at 157m, a sizable dent in the coffers of the South American drug cartels who have targeted Europe as their most lucrative market for the narcotic. While the value of the haul from the MV Matthew is estimated to be 157m a product of the street value of 70k per kg multiplied by the weight this is a conservative estimate as the purity of the product must be ascertained. Depending on the purity, the narcotic could be then mixed with other products such as flour to boost its value further. Its described as the largest such seizure but its also only the latest in a long line of successful interceptions by Irish authorities of large drug consignments. Previous interceptions There have been several seizures of large quantities of cannabis resin over the years but the earliest recorded significant haul of cocaine was in September 1996 when 599kg of cocaine was recovered from the Sea Mist in Cobh. Two years later in September 1998 320 kilograms of cocaine was seized on board the Gemeous catamaran in Kinsale. In July 2007, 1,550 kg of cocaine was found wrapped in bales in Dunlough Bay, close to Mizen Head. In November 2008, 1,875 kilograms of cocaine was recovered from the Dances with Waves yacht. It had been brought under naval escort to Castletownbere. In September 2014, a ship called the Makayabella was apprehended off the coast of west Cork. It was discovered to be carrying over a tonne of cocaine when it searched in Haulbowline. In July of this year, a number of packages containing what is believed to be cocaine were washed ashore on the north Donegal coastline. Gardai investigating the detention of the Panamanian registered bulk cargo vessel, MV Matthew, and associated events have today arrested one man for alleged organised crime offences contrary to the Criminal Justice Act 2006. This brings the total number of persons in Garda custody to seven. All seven men are detained under section 50 Criminal Justice Act 2007, as part of the same investigation, at Garda stations in the Southern Region. Investigations are ongoing. Police believe the near-160 million euro haul of cocaine captured onboard a cargo ship after a dramatic military operation at sea was destined for distribution beyond Ireland, potentially into the UK and continental Europe. A total of 2,253kg of cocaine was found on the Panamanian-registered vessel after an elite Irish army unit stormed it by abseiling from a helicopter. A CORK city teenager accused of driving dangerously in a stolen car failed to sign on at his local garda station 29 times and frequently ignored his curfew, a court has heard. He was arrested at 1.20am on Tuesday morning in Mourneabbey, 26km from his home. Garda Graham McGuinness brought the arrested 17-year-old before Cork District Court today and objected to his bail continuing, pending his trial on October 6. The teenager is charged with stealing a car on April 24 and driving it dangerously at five locations on the north side of Cork city during the alleged escapade. The following day, the youth was released on bail on conditions. Those conditions required him to sign on three times a week at his local garda station and keep a curfew to be home every night by 10pm until 6am. He failed to sign on 29 out of 40 times, said Gda McGuinness. He signed on 11 times. His curfew was breached on numerous occasions between August 17 and September 26. On September 26, he was found in Mourneabbey at 1.20am and taken to Mallow Garda Station where his mother had to come and collect him. I am applying to have his bail revoked and have him remanded in custody to the juvenile court. Frank Buttimer, solicitor, called the teenager to give evidence in his own application for bail and asked him: Why did you not keep your signing on condition? The 17-year-old, who cannot be identified as he is a juvenile, replied: I find it hard I am very easily led. I didnt realise what would happen. Mr Buttimer asked the defendant what he was asking for from the court. He replied :Give me a chance to clean up my act. Mr Buttimer said: Your mother is very cross with you, and she has every right to be. Your mother said you can come home, but if you dont keep the bail conditions she will phone the guards herself. Sergeant Gearoid Davis cross-examined the teenager, reminding him that he had already made promises to the court that he would be home every night, but that he broke this promise over and over again. What has changed? he asked. The teenager replied: Now I realise what is going to happen. I didnt think it was so serious. Judge Marie Keane revoked the teenagers bail and remanded him in custody to Oberstown Detention Centre in Dublin, to appear again at the juvenile court. The case is to be heard there on October 6. Judge Keane said: He has failed abysmally in keeping his obligations. He is out and about at 1.20am, and his mother had to go and collect him. He simply does not get it. The accused was first remanded to appear on September 29 and it is anticipated that he will be remanded in continuing custody for the hearing of the case, where he is accused of stealing a car, five counts of dangerous driving, and related charges. A DRUNKEN woman who was approached by gardai at the height of a disturbance told officers: I hope ye die roaring. Sergeant John Kelleher said gardai were on duty in Cork city centre when they encountered Nicole Sweeney in an intoxicated condition and engaging in abusive behaviour. Sgt Kelleher said at Cork District Court that the defendant shouted at gardai: Ye are all spastic f***ing c***s and I hope ye die roaring. The sergeant said that Sweeney also threatened to hit gardai with her bag. Judge Olann Kelleher noted that she pleaded guilty to being threatening and abusive and refusing to leave the scene of a disturbance when directed. Judge Kelleher jailed her for a period of two months. This will run concurrently with another sentence of one-month in another public order case earlier this week. In that incident the 33-year-old woman got involved in a drunken row in Cork city. Sweeney, of Cork Simon Community, pleaded guilty to charges of engaging in threatening behaviour and being drunk and a source of danger to himself or others. Sergeant Gearoid Davis said at Cork District Court: On June 17 a man and a woman were observed stumbling, arguing and shouting on Oliver Plunkett St. The man (not before the court) was arrested under the Public Order Act, at which point Nicole Sweeney, who was clearly intoxicated, became verbally abusive to gardai with members of the public present. Frank Buttimer represented her in both cases and outlined some difficulties that the accused was presently trying to address while in prison. He said she had very serious medical concerns and a background of mental health and addiction issues. She is being treated well in prison, Mr Buttimer said. Xi to attend Martyrs' Day event to pay tribute to fallen heroes Xinhua) 16:49, September 28, 2023 BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Xi Jinping and other leaders of the Communist Party of China and the state will join representatives from all walks of life in presenting flower baskets to fallen national heroes on Saturday morning in Tian'anmen Square. Sept. 30 is China's Martyrs' Day. The event will be broadcast live by China Media Group. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) CORK Deaf Club celebrated International Week of Deaf People 2023, and Irish Sign Language Awareness Week last week. The week-long celebration saw deaf members of the public honoured across Cork and the rest of the country. The most important thing is for hearing people to be aware of what it is to have things accessible for deaf people, Chairperson of the Cork Deaf Club Graham OShea said. We have our own identity, our own language and our own culture, which is also marked by oppression by being deprived of our own language many years ago where we werent allowed to sign. Graham and members of the Cork Deaf Club were invited to meet the Lord Mayor of Cork, Kieran McCarthy, in his chambers earlier this month. For years, we always do meet the different Mayors because we want to celebrate our culture openly and to be honoured by the city and the Mayor and to give them an opportunity to learn about us. He is a lovely man and he said he never met a deaf person before and he learned a lot from us. It was a lovely occasion, Graham added. The Imperial Hotel hosted a cafe and chats gathering last Friday morning ahead of Culture Night. Blackrock Castle and Observatory was lit-up in blue to symbolise deaf awareness. Saturday, September 23, also saw the Quad at UCC turn blue. The deaf community are so proud of their culture, identity and their language that the event was emotional. It makes us feel so proud to see us celebrated in such a way, Graham concluded. MANAGEMENT at Cork city bar Chambers has issued a public apology after their controversial rebrand for Freshers Week, when they changed their name to Sinners to appeal to a wider group of university students. The bar on Washington Street, run by Reardens Group, is Corks only LGBTQ venue, but left many loyal customers outraged after the name change, as well as the removal of rainbow flags and other paraphernalia from inside the venue. Drag shows were cancelled for the week, and posters of the drag queens who perform there were also removed from the bar, causing the performers to issue a statement saying they would no longer be performing there. Among those to criticise the rebranding were the UCC students union, who issued a statement saying that students were upset and frustrated by the decision. Hundreds of people gathered in Cork city centre on September 14 to protest the decision, standing outside in the pouring rain chanting: "We're here to stay, you cant paint the gay away." Posting on Instagram this evening, the official Chambers account took to their story to issue a public apology reading: Margaret here, I want to apologise for the upset caused by our actions during freshers' week. My team in Chambers always try to offer the best service and a safe space to all our customers, but I failed this time, I got it wrong. It was never my intention to alienate anybody. I realise I offended and upset many of our loyal and regular customers and I am very sorry. I should have handled this better. We are all aware of what happened, and I have learnt from it and I will take extra care in the future. As an additional apology, we are running a weekend long promotion in Chambers for all our customers. While I know it can't exactly make up for the hurt I caused, I hope it'll go some way towards making amends. THE Cork Folk Festival is under way with a great mix of events on everywhere. At the Everyman, Karan Casey presents The Women, We Will Rise tonight and on Saturday afternoon, with a post-show talk tonight with Anne Twomey. Directed by Tom Creed, this new show progresses the female narrative in the folk tradition. It places women centre stage and shares through song the experiences of gallant females from Irelands past, whilst being a vision for the women of the future. Joined by Niamh Dunne and Sean Og Graham, with composition by Niall Vallely, Karan will perform songs from her highly acclaimed album, Nine Apples of Gold, as well as new material, in this uplifting and empowering show. Tonight at 8pm, and Saturday at 2.30pm. A Ceili Mor at Douglas GAA tonight should get you in the mood, or perhaps a lively folk session at the Spailpin Fanach with Daoiri Farrell and Kevin Byrne. The Ceili All Stars are there tomorrow night. And dozens of other events too - workshops, Folk on the Quay, you name it. Check out the official website and try to choose! https://www.corkfolkfestival.com. Tomorrow night at Everyman, Poetry Ireland and SoFFt Productions bring a live literary celebration of creativity with Ireland Is, featuring Colm Keegan, Erin Fornoff and Felispeaks. Internationally renowned poets and performers, such as Danez Smith and Hollie McNish, will share the stage with gifted Cork rapper and spoken word artist Olympio. 8pm start. On Saturday night, some truly unforgettable music when Bookends bring their unforgettable show Simon & Garfunkel: Through the Years. Whoops, that one is already completely sold out. Not surprising! On Sunday, especially for the littlest theatregoers, FairyTale StageShow presents The Family Shark Show. Venture into the deep blue sea and join Baby on the adventure of a lifetime with new friends like Olivia the Octopus and Tommy the Turtle. Everyone in attendance is invited to Babys birthday party on Treasure Island and can sing along with the characters! Fun for the whole family! Performances at 11am and 2pm. Tonight at the Opera House, Tadhg Hickey in the arrestingly-titled Marxist Terrorist-Supporting Scumbag Tour. Join him on his very first stand-up tour and hear him raimeis about family, fatherhood, colonialism and how to break up the United Kingdom through the medium of comedy. Discounts for groups of four or more. 8pm. There are just a few tickets left for that great country rock band Smokie tomorrow (Friday), while tickets for Gina and the Champions on Saturday night, and that amazing trio, Frances Black, Sharon Shannon, and Mary Couglan on Sunday night, are going fast. Projective on Monday night is already sold out, but you might be lucky for Perfectly George, with Rod Lamberti, on Tuesday, and The Illegal Eagles on Wednesday, if you dont delay. Then, on Thursday, October 4, the iconic Phil Coulter - that one is pretty well bound to be a sell-out as well. What a great mix of shows at the Opera House! Call 021 427 0022 or see www.corkoperahouse.ie for bookings. Running until Saturday at the Cork Arts Theatre, Salome by the Cliff, created by Paolo Gruni, Sophia Santabarbara and Isadora Soderstrmom. It twists the ancient myth into a new subversive version. Tonight and Saturday at 8pm. Booking through Everyman as above. Humans: A Robot Musical, is back at Graffiti Theatre next week, before embarking on a national tour. A big-hearted, funny story about loss, friendship and hope, it features three humanoid robots. School shows Wed-Fri, October 4-6, and a matinee for everybody on Saturday at 11am and 2pm. Family tickets available on Saturday. Booking through Everyman as above. By Claudia Savage, PA Church leaders from the island of Ireland will attend a seminar in Rome to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement. In a shared statement they said the visit is taking place at a time of great concern for the state of our fragile peace. The Church Leaders Group, which includes leaders from the Church of Ireland, the Methodist and Presbyterian churches in Ireland, the Roman Catholic Church and the Irish Council of Churches, will share their personal reflections on the anniversary during a visit to Rome. The seminar will take place in the Pontifical Irish College and will also explore the role that churches and faith-based leaders play in peace-making and reconciliation. People attending the ceremony to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement in the Great Hall at Stormont (William Cherry/PressEye/PA) The two-day visit begins with a joint church service on Thursday at the Chiesa Evangelica Valdese, the Waldensian Evangelical Church in Romes Piazza Cavour. The Good Friday Agreement established a new political system in the North and largely ended conflict and violence in the region. The 25th anniversary of the signing has been celebrated in a range of events so far this year, including the Agreement 25 conference at Queens University. In a joint statement the church leaders said their visit to Rome was an opportunity to reflect on the past 25 years, but also to look to the future of peace in Northern Ireland. They said the Good Friday Agreement was not the end of the peace journey in the region. We welcome the opportunity this special seminar affords us to share our collective thoughts and personal reflections at such an influential gathering, as it comes at a time when we have great concern for the state of our fragile peace, they said. As we remark in the foreword to this mornings Order of Service, We must remember that the signing of the Agreement was not the end of the journey to peace in Northern Ireland. It simply marked the first faltering steps down a very long road to a new, brighter, and shared future shaped by tolerance and respect for our differences, and a recognition of the need for greater understanding and reconciliation. The church leaders added that the Good Friday Agreement had saved lives in Northern Ireland. Catholic Archbishop Eamon Martin, left, and Church of Ireland Archbishop John McDowell, attend a service to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement at Clonard Monastery in Belfast (Niall Carson/PA) They said: We are thankful to God that the Agreement that was negotiated a quarter of a century ago, while not perfect, transformed the conflict in Northern Ireland, resulting in countless lives being saved. It is our prayer that todays seminar, and our participation along with others, will contribute to a wider understanding of where we have come from and the hope that we have for the future, when communities agree to come together. The church leaders further stated that their visit was a commitment to the future of peace and reconciliation. As individual Christians, and as leaders in our respective Christian traditions, we are committed to working towards a vision of an island of restored relationships, where all can flourish and fully participate in our common life, they said. This is our shared commitment to reconciliation and peacebuilding on the island of Ireland. While we continue to recognise the obvious challenges that there are, we want to acknowledge once more that the important and vital work of peace is still an unfinished work, a work that we are all committed to actively pursuing for the common good, for all the people of Ireland, north and south. Speaking ahead of the visit, the British ambassador to the Holy See Chris Trott and the Irish ambassador to the Holy See Frances Collins said they were delighted to welcome the church leaders in Ireland to Rome. For decades, the churches have played an important role in supporting peace and reconciliation, including in preparing the ground for the successful negotiation of the agreement, facilitating inter-community dialogue and in their ecumenical work, which promoted a deeper understanding of the root causes of the conflict, they said. Their invaluable work continues today, as they support and guide communities across Northern Ireland navigating the very serious challenges of living in a post-conflict society. Speakers at the seminar will include the Rt Rev Andrew Forster, president of the Irish Council of Churches, the Most Rev Eamon Martin, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, and the Most Rev John McDowell, Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland. Before returning on Friday the church leaders will have a number of additional meetings with Christian organisations and lunch with the British and Irish ambassadors to the Holy See. Thomson Reuters Ryanair has announced a number of cuts to its winter schedule due to delays in the delivery of Boeing aircraft, but Europe's largest airline by passenger numbers said its full-year traffic forecast was unaffected "as yet". Ryanair said in a statement that it had expected to receive 27 aircraft between September and December. But due to production delays at the Spirit Fuselage facility in Wichita, combined with Boeing repair and delivery delays in Seattle, it now expects to receive only 14 aircraft between October and December. Flight cancellations will take effect from the end of October, and will be communicated to all affected passengers by email over the coming days, Ryanair said. "At this early date, we do not expect these delivery delays will materially affect our full year traffic target of 183.5 million, group chief executive Michael O'Leary said. "But if the delays worsen or extend further into the January to March 2024 period, we may have to revisit this figure and possibly adjust it slightly downward," he added. The budget airline said it will cut two aircraft from those based at Dublin Airport, three from Charleroi airport in Belgium, and five from Italian airports, including Bergamo, Naples and Pisa. There will also be aircraft reductions at East Midlands airport in the UK, Porto in Portugal and Cologne, Germany, it said. Earlier this year Ryanair unveiled a multibillion-dollar deal for as many as 300 Boeing jets, burying the hatchet with its biggest supplier after an 18-month public feud over prices strained one of aviation's closest partnerships. The low-cost carrier said it was placing a firm order for 150 of the largest version of Boeing's narrow-body jet family, known as the 737 MAX 10, with options for another 150. At the time Ryanair said the order would allow it to almost double its traffic to 300 million passengers per year by March 2034 from the 168 million flown to the end of March this year. It currently expects to fly 225 million passengers a year by 2026. FROM brainstorming with Ed Sheerans team on how the superstar can get the most out of TikTok, to helping stars get started, its all in a days work for Cork woman Darina Connolly. She is Head Of Label & Artist Partnerships at TikTok and works with established and new artists, along with label companies and others in the music industry, from bedroom producers to buskers, on how to consistently get the most from the globally popular platform. While lots of people might still associate TikTok with lipsync or dance videos, Darina, from Kanturk, points out theres been huge work done to move away from that perception, and says the platform can now be an incredibly valuable place to launch or even revive an artists career. When it comes to music, its a really powerful platform and we have seen a rise of very many artists who have found success on TikTok, people who use the platform to find an audience, grow a fanbase, and then promote their music to them, which then translates into chart positions, which translates into people buying tickets for shows, she explains. Darina Connolly Head Of Label & Artist Partnerships at TikTok She cites Ali Sherlock, from Douglas, as a good example of that. Ali is fantastic on the platform. She does a lot of covers, but she also performs her own original music, and does a lot of entertaining and funny videos. Also, Cian Ducrot from Passage West who has gone viral several times on TikTok, he has 3.5million followers, and has seen that translated to off-platform success. We support artists at all levels of their career, making sure that those endemic artists and well established artists understand the power of TikTok, and what they can do with the platform. Working in the music industry was always what Darina aspired to, even if she had no idea what such a job actually looked like. When mum would go to the city to get her hair done, Id jump at the chance to go along and go into HMV and Golden Discs, she remembers. I loved music growing up but never realised you didnt have to be a musician to work in the industry. It wasnt until I was doing Transition Year work experience in RTE Cork that a producer called Rory Cobbe took me under his wing and opened a whole new world of possibilities to me. He was working on a show called No Disco, and he started introducing me to fact there was a whole industry around music other than what you put in your CD player, she said. Darina went on to study multimedia in what was CIT, which at the time was a new and ground- breaking course. After spending a summer in Boston on a J1 and graduating, she returned to Cork and worked in an internet cafe on Oliver Plunkett Street. At this stage, the security of university was over, I was out on my own, and as I was spending all day in front of a computer, I had plenty to time to research various entry level jobs, so I decided Id see where it would take me, she said. That attitude took her all the way to MTV in London, where she secured a nine-month internship. It was unbelievably exciting, even getting the interview, and I can still remember taking that early morning flight from Cork. I didnt rate my chances at all but I got it and moved to London. That was nearly 20 years ago I never left! I knew as soon as I got on the plane to leave Cork, I was ready to see what the world had for me. Darina Connolly At Eurovision. This was in 2005, and working with MTV was every bit as exciting as it sounds. Darina worked with the talent and music department and on her first day she was tasked with looking after Craig David and Charlotte Church. A big part of my job was to make sure talent was looked after. The post was another big thing, as this was still a time when time when people would send in hard copies of CDs, etc, she remembers. The internship transitioned into a three month position working with the MTV music awards, and she was involved the year Justin Timberlake presented the huge global event. Her next career move was Colombia Records, owned by Sony, where she spent five years, and from there to Apple, when it was iTunes and Apple Music, where she worked for a decade. Ive been at TikTok now for the last two and half years. Its a very entertaining platform, but its also very much a platform for success and what we do is about educating on how to build that success, adding value to whats going on. So if a track is showing popularity, if people are using it in content more, we add value to that organic traction by education, in app promotion and various other things. No two days are ever the same, its a very dynamic environment, things move very fast and its about making sure the industry has the best information from us to find success. The real magic about the TikTok platform, she says, is that you can never predict what is going to go viral. Well discussed examples are Meghan Trainors Made You Look and Running Up That Hill by Kate Bush. Darina Connolly Head Of Label & Artist Partnerships at TikTok in Liverpool. That hit got a start on Stranger Things but Darina says people then came to TikTok to start creating with it, and it reached entire new audiences, and took the number one chart spot, which it hadnt done when it was first released. A few years back, Dreams by Fleetwood Mac was used in a random way on the platform and went back into the top 40 in the charts. Its that complete unpredictability that I find so fascinating. Anything can happen at any time and we say quite often that it just takes one creation to make a trend. Every massive trend you see, or every track thats gone viral has come from one person, posting one time and its grown from there. We can never predict what will resonate, its the TikTok community that decide that they want to create more and more videos with a particular track. Then, when we see that magic happen, were here to facilitate that success and make sure that everyone can capitalise on it. Her advice to an artist keen to engage is to dive into TikTok, start experimenting. We have conversations from endemic to the most A plus, plus, plus artists and our advice is to just jump in and make some mistakes. Be authentic, express yourself, and be creative and have fun. Every artist has a home on TikTok but it is a matter of finding your own lane and voice. Among the music accounts she likes to follow herself are Chasing Abbey, Yune Pinku, Jazzy and Robert Grace. One of my favourite non-music people to follow is The Pool Guy. He goes around cleaning pools and its the most relaxing thing ever to see! she said. Creative freedom is her favourite thing about her job. You can think of an idea and you have the opportunity and empowerment to make it real, which I really enjoy, she said. And when shes not working, she enjoys exercising, reformer pilates and meditation. I also like to unwind and enjoy time with my fiancee Wendy and play with our new adopted kitten. Wendy is a doctor in the NHS so we complement each other she loves to hear what I do every day for some light relief. The couple are planning their wedding for next March in London, which will mean just a short trip over for her family who are mainly Kanturk-based, including mum Marie, sister Andrea and her nieces Orlaith and Sadhbh. And while London is where her life is now, Cork, she says, will always be home. UK pig organisation supports expediting approval of precision breeding techniques in farmed animals The United Kingdom's National Pig Association has backed calls for the UK government to speed up plans to allow the commercial use of precision breeding techniques in farmed animals. Yorkshire pig producer Rob Beckett wrote to UK Farming Minister Mark Spencer, urging him to intervene in the process. The Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Act was granted Royal Assent in March this year, paving the way for gene edited crops and livestock to be introduced on farms in England. One of the first potential applications in livestock could be porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome resistant pigs, bred using gene edited traits developed by scientists at the University of Missouri and the Roslin Institute in the UK. In August, PIC submitted an application for approval of the technology on the United States - it expects to receive an answer within six months. But under the terms of the Precision Breeding Act, which applies to England only, gene-edited plants are being prioritised over livestock. Whereas, more detailed implementing rules authorising precision bred crops for commercial release in England are expected to be finalised in summer 2024, coming into force at the end of 2024. The UK government has indicated that the equivalent process for farm animals could take a further two years. Becket told Spencer that pig producers in England should get access to the same advanced genetics as soon as possible to help alleviate suffering of animals caused by intractable diseases such as PRRS. "PRRS is a dreadful condition, endemic in both indoor and outdoor pig production in the UK, and responsible for significant losses, as much as 30 million (US$36.4 million) per year in England alone," Becket said. "But as a fellow farmer, I know you will understand that this issue is not just about pounds and pence. It is also about avoiding animal suffering, and the distress this causes among producers. A genetic solution is now available which could eradicate this horrible disease it seems unethical not to get it out onto farms at the earliest possible opportunity." Beckett's call came after PIC hosted a series of roadshows around the UK to update pig producers on its efforts to introduce gene edited PRRS-resistant pigs in the US and UK markets, including efforts to gain market acceptance. - National Hog Farmer Kazakhstan extends ban of wheat import via road The ban on the import of wheat by road into Kazakhstan has been extended from October 11 for a period of six months, Azernews reported, citing Trend. As noted by the country's Ministry of Agriculture, this step was taken to eliminate illegal imports of wheat. From September 26, a ban was introduced for a period of six months on the import of wheat by rail (except for the import of grain intended for licensed elevators, as well as grain processing and poultry enterprises). The restrictions imposed on imports by rail do not apply to transit transportation through the territory of Kazakhstan. - Azernews Ingham's barn-raised chicken operation gets New Zealand SPCA's blue certification The Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has given its blue certification badge to barn-raised chicken farms for the first time in New Zealand. Ingham's is the first New Zealand company to meet the new, rigorous SPCA Certified animal welfare standards for barn-raised chickens. Its free-range chicken farms are already SPCA Certified. This means that 100% of Ingham's chicken farms are now SPCA Certified - another first for the New Zealand industry. The company's chief executive (New Zealand), Ed Alexander, said it's a very satisfying achievement for a company that always has animal welfare as a top priority. "We know Kiwis love their chicken. More than a third of all our meals with meat is chicken, and we also know how much Kiwis care about how animals are farmed in Aotearoa, so this was always an essential benchmark for us to reach. Especially to be the first to do so," said Alexander. "We're proud to say that being SPCA Certified means all our chickens will have better lives. Our operations have always been welfare-focused, so this association with SPCA has motivated us to make tweaks we needed and wanted to. We can proudly bear the SPCA Certified blue badge on all our chicken meat products, which we hope sets a benchmark for the entire industry." The 175 SPCA Certified criteria are specific, measurable, science-based chicken welfare standards with all required to be met by chicken farmers wanting to become SPCA Certified. SPCA Certified standards significantly differ from the welfare of barn-raised chickens, especially when compared to the standard Code of Welfare for Meat Chickens required by law. Key examples include more space for chickens to be active, more and deeper quality dry litter for natural foraging activity and comfort, and more natural environmental features such as perching platforms and curiosity items to peck. Four independent on-site audits per year ensuring SPCA standards are maintained (non-SPCA Certified farms have no required on-site animal welfare audits) increased ventilation for airflow and the reduction of ammonia levels in the air and dry litter. It also requires more daily barn walk-throughs and chicken interactions with the farmer. Lastly, no hormones or antibiotics are used for growth promotion purposes. "SPCA is delighted that Ingham's has become 100% SPCA Certified for all their free range and barn-raised meat chicken farms," said SPCA's national manager (SPCA Certified), Kelly Drake. "This will mean millions more chickens live better lives on New Zealand farms, above and beyond the minimum requirements." - Supermarket News Investment fund acquires US$72 million stake in Icelandic salmon land farm Haf Investments, a recently established investment fund, has acquired a substantial ISK 10 billion (~US$72 million; ISK 100 = US$0.72) stake in Thor Landeldi, a salmon business in Iceland, which aims to provide the necessary capital for a new land-based salmon farming project in the region, Fish Farmer reported. The agreement grants Haf Investments a controlling 53% ownership in Thor Landeldi. The primary objective of this venture is to facilitate the establishment of a state-of-the-art facility with a production capacity of 20,000 tonnes. The proposed location for this ambitious project is near orlakshofn, situated on the southern coast of Iceland. Importantly, this area is strategically chosen due to its proximity to other land-based salmon farming initiatives currently underway. Haf Investments, initiated earlier this year, boasts a robust financial foundation, with funding amounting to a significant US$71 million. This fund is dedicated to exploring and investing in opportunities within the realm of ocean-related ventures. Notably, the fund's investment potential extends even further when considering co-investment authorisations held by shareholders, which could increase its investment capacity to an impressive range of US$200 million to US$350 million. Noteworthy investors participating in this project include Norwegian entrepreneurs Frank Yri, chief commercial officer of Seaborn, and Alex Vassbotten, chairman of the Board of Seaborn. Thor Landeldi has secured a substantial 20.3-hectare site at Laxabraut, positioned west of orlakshofn. This location is strategically chosen due to its abundant availability of fresh and sea water, essential resources for salmon production on land. The newly acquired capital will be channelled into financing the initial phase of the project, involving the construction of a hatchery. The project is currently undergoing an environmental assessment, and it is expected to receive its first salmon eggs in the hatchery by autumn 2024. Leading this ambitious project are Jonatan Thordarson, Thordur Thordarson, and Halldor Ragnar Gislason, all of whom possess extensive expertise in various facets of fish farming. Jonatan Thordarson, an aquaculture specialist with over two decades of experience in fish farm operations and development, served as the Head of Aquaculture at Ice Fish Farm for a decade between 2012 and 2022. Thordur Thordarson, previously a lawyer and manager at Fiskeldi Austfjarda from 2012 to 2023, brings valuable expertise to the project. Halldor holds an M.Sc. in aquaculture from Scotland and most recently contributed to the fisheries division of Arion bank. For this transaction, Arctica Finance represented the seller, while Deloitte acted as the advisory entity for IS Haf Investment. - Fish Farmer South Korea launches five-month campaign to combat animal diseases South Korea's Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs has announced a five-month special disinfection period aimed at bolstering its efforts to combat animal diseases during the winter season, Yonhap reported. This comprehensive campaign, scheduled to run from October 2023 to February 2024, entails intensified measures to safeguard against highly pathogenic avian influenza (AI), African swine fever (ASF), and other animal diseases. The primary objectives of this initiative include the reinforcement of monitoring activities concerning wild animals and local farms. Additionally, the government intends to implement stringent disinfection and quarantine measures. According to official statistics, the number of bird flu cases among migratory birds has surged by 14.7% compared to the previous year, with 3,364 confirmed cases reported in the first eight months of this year alone. Given the expected arrival of more migratory birds in the coming months, the government plans to enhance AI virus testing in major habitats nationwide. Moreover, it will designate 24 high-risk regions and approximately 700 farms for intensified disinfection efforts. To ensure early detection and containment of avian influenza outbreaks, private institutions will be mobilised to conduct thorough and rapid inspections. Another pivotal aspect of this campaign focuses on preventing the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). South Korea reported its first FMD case in over four years in May, followed by at least ten additional cases at local farms. To combat FMD, the government will extend its vaccination campaign and conduct antibody tests. Enhanced quarantine measures will be implemented at local farms and associated facilities. In response to the ongoing spread of ASF, the ministry has pledged to maintain its rigorous operations to locate and address affected animals. This includes the tracking and containment of wild boars, accompanied by the installation of additional fences to hinder their migration. In the most recent ASF case, authorities confirmed the infection of four swine from a single farm in the northern county of Hwacheon, where nearly 1,600 swine were raised. As a preventive measure, affected pigs are being culled, and disinfection protocols are being executed. Furthermore, a 48-hour standstill order has been issued for the adjacent Gangwon and Gyeonggi regions. - Yonhap Industrial 5G Radio Unit Scalance M80000 For the first time, Siemens is launching a self-developed infrastructure for private industrial 5G mobile networks. The technology groups complete solution enables industrial companies to build their own local 5G networks for automation applications. "By building their own 5G networks, industrial companies are launching the next stage of connected production," says Axel Lorenz, CEO of Process Automation at Siemens. "5G is crucial for applications like mobile robots, autonomous logistics, and driverless transport systems in factories. Siemens' private 5G infrastructure also gives users sole control over the data in their 5G network at all times, and they can custom-configure the network for their applications." Other scenarios for industrial 5G wireless technology include the integrated use of connected tablets, VR glasses, and smart tools. In addition, edge devices can be used flexibly: for example, in brownfield applications where its difficult to lay cables. In contrast to other wireless technologies, private 5G networks use a licensed frequency band and can therefore be operated without interference. 5G network components from a single source Private industrial 5G infrastructure for the deployment of a local 5G network Siemens has developed its 5G infrastructure specifically for the requirements of industrial customers and industrial applications. It consists of a 5G core and a radio access network (RAN). The RAN includes the central unit (CU), the distributed unit (DU), and the radio units (RUs). Different 5G end-devices can connect to the 5G infrastructure and communicate in the private network. The all-in-one 5G solution is also designed for use in harsh industrial environments. Before the market launch, Siemens extensively tested its private 5G infrastructure in real production environments like at the Siemens production site in Karlsruhe. By implementing and operating the prototype network in its own production facilities, Siemens was able to extensively test and refine the technology, ensuring that it can withstand the requirements of industrial production environments and support industrial applications. The private Siemens 5G infrastructure is now available in Germany, and other countries will follow. One of the pilot customers for the complete 5G solution is the German steel group Salzgitter AG: "We don't just want to build any 5G network, we want an industrial 5G that meets the enormous requirements of the steel industry," says Gerd Baresch, Chief Technology Officer at Salzgitter Flachstahl GmbH. "Wherever we need to wirelessly transmit data reliably and securely from real-time camera images to safety-relevant emergency-stop signals for driverless transport systems we need future-proof communication technology. Siemens has been a longstanding reliable partner for network solutions, and this is precisely why we decided to work with them." High data security with 5G infrastructure in campus networks Private 5G networks, also known as campus networks, are 5G networks restricted to a defined company premises, a defined area, or an individual building. From Siemens' point of view, private 5G networks offer many advantages for industry: Companies build them locally at their locations and can precisely modify them to meet their needs and applications. Companies also have full control over their data because private 5G networks use their own local 5G spectrum. A private 5G infrastructure like the one offered by Siemens is required for building a local 5G network and making the 5G signal available on the companys premises. Siemens has been offering industrial 5G routers like the Scalance MUM853-1 and Scalance MUM856-1 for connecting robots, AGVs, and other industrial devices to a private 5G network since 2021. These routers are the final components necessary for efficient wireless connectivity in industrial environments. Lesen sie mehr zum Thema PlayAGS Thursday announced that Robert Bob Blair will serve as its new deputy general counsel. Blairs appointment is fremont hoteleffective immediately. Bob is an exceptional legal mind who is a valuable addition to the AGS leadership team, said AGS Chief Legal Officer and Secretary Rob Ziems in a statement. With his extensive knowledge and experience on corporate legal affairs and patent matters, Bob will be a key player in protecting and advancing our business and our brand as AGS continues to capitalize on many growth opportunities ahead. Blair most recently worked for Aruze Gaming America for five years, serving in roles including global general counsel, global deputy general counsel, and global senior IP counsel. Blair also has worked for EIP, an international law firm, as a U.S. patent attorney; as vice president of patents for Unwired Planet, an intellectual property company focused on the mobile industry; and as International Game Technologys associate general counsel of intellectual property. Kylie Minogue fans can look forward to another shot at seeing her Voltaire show at Thepaddy power slots tournaments Venetian. Minogue is expected to add more shows to her original 10, possibly doubling that number, as her initial sale crashed the VoltaireLV.com website. There is no verification of when those shows will be on sale or how many. But the demand for Minogue was reportedly easily double for her original series, set to start Nov. 3 and run through Jan. 27. The swanky nightspot has a capacity of 1,000. However, it is likely the venue will release existing general-admission/table seats as the venues construction is finished. The tickets offered this week are not 100 percent of what the room will seat when it is completed. A spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism has urged religious doctrines to be interpreted in the right way in a talk with 50 senior monks from different Buddhist sects. The 11th Panchen Lama Bainqen Erdini Qoigyijabu sat with the monks in Xigaze prefecture, southwest Chinas Tibet Autonomous Region, on Sunday, talking about how to promote patriotism, rule of law, ethnic unity, social harmony, and environmental protection, local officials said. The Panchen Lama told monks to interpret the Buddhist doctrines correctly, especially in meeting the demands of promoting Tibetan Buddhism and benefiting the masses. Buddhism is a recipe for ending secular sufferings and dispelling bad Karma for the masses. It can guide people to ditch the evil for the virtue, the spiritual leader said. He said the monks can only fulfill their responsibilities by studying the Buddhist doctrines, acting on these doctrines, and guiding the masses. The Panchen Lama said he hopes the monks can contribute more in promoting national and ethnic unity, social harmony and world peace. Xigaze is home of Zhaxi Lhunbo Lamasery, the traditional residence of reincarnated Panchen Lamas. The discussion between the Panchen Lama and monks came amid attempts by a small number of people to distort the Buddhist doctrines, in particular mixing them with calls for the Tibet Independence, which serve as a hidden political agenda, said Gongpo Tashi, a senior official of Tibet. The official said the rightful interpreting of the Buddhist doctrines by senior monks is a measure to clarify matters and get to the bottom of things. Xinhua Panchen Lama urges Buddhist doctrines to be interpretedadded by chinatimesonline on View all posts by chinatimesonline B.S., Biology, University of Missouri in Columbia One of the best ways for teachers to get students interested in nature and natural science is by teaching them about endangered animals. Reading up on pandas, tigers, elephants, and other creatures is a fun way to introduce young learners to topics such as ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation. Building lessons is simple with the help of the resources below. Wild and Wonderful Lessons About Endangered Species Source: Educationworld.com The five lessons included here involve research and role-playing. Are These Animals Threatened, Endangered, or Extinct? Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration This lesson introduces students to the concepts of extinct, endangered, and threatened species, with a focus on Hawaii and its native creatures. Endangered Species 1: Why Are Species Endangered? Source: Sciencenetlinks.com This lesson exposes students to the plight of endangered species and helps them understand and gain perspective on issues that continue to affect animals and threaten our global environment. What Are Endangered Species? Source: Learningtogive.org The "Endangered SpeciesIt's Not Too Late" lesson is designed to help students understand the meaning of endangered species and how they can be protected. Critically Endangered Species Lesson Plan Source: United States Fish and Wildlife Service The goal of this lesson is to provide an understanding of critically endangered species, how they differ from endangered species, and why certain animals are critically endangered. Threatened, Endangered, and Extinct Lesson Plan Source: Pennsylvania State University The "Threatened, Endangered, and Extinct" lesson plan focuses on species that are in serious danger of extinction. Endangered Species Lesson Plans - Environmental Education in ... Source: EEinwisconsin.org These lesson plans were developed to provide elementary through high school teachers with ideas for how to teach students about endangered species conservation. Save the Turtles - Ride the Turtle Education Rainbow Source: Savetheturtles.org An excellent resource created on a book-based thematic approach for ages 5 through 12, this site offers suggestions for sea turtle stories. It also includes pre-activities, hands-on activities, and suggestions for community action. Watch Now: 10 Lesser-Known Endangered Species at Risk of Disappearing From Earth Facebook Facebook Twitter Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College Standard deviation is a calculation of the dispersion or variation in a set of numbers. If the standard deviation is a small number, it means the data points are close to their average value. If the deviation is large, it means the numbers are spread out, further from the mean or average. There are two types of standard deviation calculations. Population standard deviation looks at the square root of the variance of the set of numbers. It's used to determine a confidence interval for drawing conclusions (such as accepting or rejecting a hypothesis). A slightly more complex calculation is called sample standard deviation. This is a simple example of how to calculate variance and population standard deviation. First, let's review how to calculate the population standard deviation: Calculate the mean (simple average of the numbers). For each number: Subtract the mean. Square the result. Calculate the mean of those squared differences. This is the variance. Take the square root of that to obtain the population standard deviation. Population Standard Deviation Equation There are different ways to write out the steps of the population standard deviation calculation into an equation. A common equation is: = ([(x - u)2]/N)1/2 Where: is the population standard deviation represents the sum or total from 1 to N x is an individual value u is the average of the population N is the total number of the population Example Problem You grow 20 crystals from a solution and measure the length of each crystal in millimeters. Here is your data: 9, 2, 5, 4, 12, 7, 8, 11, 9, 3, 7, 4, 12, 5, 4, 10, 9, 6, 9, 4 Calculate the population standard deviation of the length of the crystals. Calculate the mean of the data. Add up all the numbers and divide by the total number of data points.(9+2+5+4+12+7+8+11+9+3+7+4+12+5+4+10+9+6+9+4) / 20 = 140/20 = 7 Subtract the mean from each data point (or the other way around, if you prefer... you will be squaring this number, so it does not matter if it is positive or negative).(9 - 7)2= (2)2= 4 (2 - 7)2= (-5)2= 25 (5 - 7)2= (-2)2= 4 (4 - 7)2= (-3)2= 9 (12 - 7)2= (5)2= 25 (7 - 7)2= (0)2= 0 (8 - 7)2= (1)2= 1 (11 - 7)2= (4)22= 16 (9 - 7)2= (2)2= 4 (3 - 7)2= (-4)22= 16 (7 - 7)2= (0)2= 0 (4 - 7)2= (-3)2= 9 (12 - 7)2= (5)2= 25 (5 - 7)2= (-2)2= 4 (4 - 7)2= (-3)2= 9 (10 - 7)2= (3)2= 9 (9 - 7)2= (2)2= 4 (6 - 7)2= (-1)2= 1 (9 - 7)2= (2)2= 4 (4 - 7)2= (-3)22= 9 Calculate the mean of the squared differences.(4+25+4+9+25+0+1+16+4+16+0+9+25+4+9+9+4+1+4+9) / 20 = 178/20 = 8.9 This value is the variance. The variance is 8.9 The population standard deviation is the square root of the variance. Use a calculator to obtain this number.(8.9)1/2= 2.983 The population standard deviation is 2.983 Learn More From here, you might wish to review the different standard deviation equations and learn more about how to calculate it by hand. Sources Bland, J.M.; Altman, D.G. (1996). "Statistics notes: measurement error." BMJ. 312 (7047): 1654. doi:10.1136/bmj.312.7047.1654 Ghahramani, Saeed (2000). Fundamentals of Probability(2nd ed.). New Jersey: Prentice Hall. Watch Now: How to Add Fractions Thefree roulette games online no download Unveiling Ceremony of Wujiang River Basin Ethnic Culture Research Base, under the Center for Ethnic and Folk Literature and Art Development of the Ministry of Culture, was held at Yangtze Normal University in Chongqing, marking the fourth local research platform of the university. The other three institutes Yangtze Normal University boasts to serve the local society and economy include the Research Center for Society, Economy and Culture of Wujiang River Basin, the Research Center for Special Resources Exploitation and Utilization of Wuling Mountain Area, and the Technology Center for Eco-environment Monitoring and Disaster Prevention Project in Three Gorges Reservoir Area. Yangtze Normal University has now carried out substantive cooperation with sixteen districts and counties in southeast and northeast Chongqing. Each year, 5 to 10 key service groups and 10 to 30 service teams are dispatched to townships in the sixteen districts and counties, especially those in remote mountain areas, for the New Countryside Outreach, greatly promoting local economic and social development. Zhou Kang Wujiang River Basin Ethnic Culture Research Base opensadded by chinatimesonline on View all posts by chinatimesonline According to the Delaware Lotterys latest revenue report,red and black roulette online casinos in the state generated $36.41 million in total bets. The revenue of nearly $1.18 million represented an annual drop but a monthly increase. While gambling activities have decreased due to a summer slowdown, the Delaware Lottery selected Rush Street Interactive (RSI) as its latest online gaming partner. The new operator may help bring in an additional boost to the states revenue numbers. As mentioned, Delawares online gambling handle in July was $36.41 million. To be more specific, throughout the month, Delaware casino enthusiasts wagered: $24.65 million on online video lottery games $11.77 million on online table games doubleu casino free chips pageshows grade level based on the word's complexity. dactylic [ dak-til-ik ]/ dktl k / New Word List Save This Word!See dactylic158090; 1.% Ni (Mal Lake last drilled in 19674), and the Borys Lake Zn-Cu-Pb+Ag occurrence. 4 - Saskatchewan Mineral Deposit Index #0836 ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Ian Fraser, Chief Executive Officer & Vice-President Exploration 1-403-650-9760 Email: ifraser@fathomnickel.com or Doug Porter, President & CFO 1-403-870-4349 Email: dporter @fathomnickel.com Figure 2 Fathom Nickel Inc. Properties Saskatchewan Location Map To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7843/182200_bba8fa0b546ee9d1_007full.jpg Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains "forward-looking statements" that are based on expectations, estimates, projections and interpretations as at the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "seek", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "suggest", "indicate" and other similar words or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur, and include, without limitation, statements regarding payment of terms under the Option Agreement, permitting for the Property, receipt of an exploration permit, timing of the exploration program on the Property and the Company achieving the earn-in thresholds under the Option Agreement. 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Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES. ANY FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF U.S. SECURITIES LAWS To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/182200 Three public events are planned for the third annual observance in Bismarck of the National Day of Remembrance for U.S. Indian Boarding Schools on Saturday. Events include a film screening with a panel discussion on Friday, and a walk and a mural unveiling on Saturday afternoon. What's commonly known as "Orange Shirt Day" honors boarding school survivors and Indigenous children who died at the schools. The event began in Canada in 2013, its name derived from a shiny orange shirt a member of the Stswecemc Xgattem First Nation, Phyllis Webstad, received from her grandmother before moving to a residential school in British Columbia. The school took the shirt away as soon as she started. Orange Shirt Day is an opportunity for all of us to come together and learn about the painful history of boarding schools in the U.S. said event organizer and artist Agnes Yellowbear, of New Town. It is important to teach everyone, regardless of age or background, about this history so that we can move forward together with a better understanding. Boarding schools the federal government operated in North Dakota included the Bismarck Indian School near the Missouri River. Children from reservations in North Dakota and surrounding states attended the Bismarck school from 1908-37. The site today is known as Fraine Barracks, the headquarters of the North Dakota National Guard. Children from North Dakota tribes also were sent to boarding schools in other states, such as the Carlisle Indian Industrial School in Pennsylvania. Bismarck events A screening of the film Bones of Crows is scheduled for 5 p.m. Friday in the Multi-Purpose Room of United Tribes Technical College's Building 69. A panel discussion will follow. The film is about a Cree woman who survives a boarding school and goes on to become a code talker for the Canadian Air Force during World War II. A "Walking for our Relatives" memorial walk is planned from 2-6 p.m. Saturday at Custer Park. There will be food, musical performances by Indigenous artists from across North Dakota, and the unveiling of an "Every Child Matters" mural that will be on display at Art Alley in downtown Bismarck. BEIJING (dpa-AFX) - American soldier Travis T. King, who was released from North Korean custody after multi-week diplomatic efforts, has arrived back in the United States, U.S. media reported. Media outlets published pictures from video of the US Army Private disembarking from a US military plane at Kelly Field at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, Texas, at around 1:30 a.m. ET, Thursday. North Korean state media KCNA reported on Wednesday that the Kim Jong Un regime had decided 'to expel' King, who was arrested after illegally crossing into North Korea from South Korea in July. King, a cavalry scout stationed in South Korea, crossed into North Korean territory on July 18 after joining a tour group of the Joint Security Area at the Demilitarized Zone in Panmunjom. North Korea handed over King to U.S. Ambassador Nicholas Burns and Brigadier General Patrick Teague in China on Wednesday, from where he was flown to the US military base in Texas. Travis King's return home culminates weeks-long effort across multiple U.S. government agencies. 'We are grateful to the Swedish government for its diplomatic role in serving as the protecting power for the United States in the DPRK and to the government of the People's Republic of China for its assistance in facilitating the safe transit of Private King,' senior administration officials said at a news conference. For the last many weeks, the U.S. government has been reaching out to North Korea through multiple channels to ascertain his welfare and to try to secure his safe return home. That includes outreach at the United Nations and through Washington's United Nations Command. The official said China helped to facilitate the transfer but did not mediate by any means. 'The Swedish played an important role. They have been our primary interlocutor in helping us get Private King out,' he told reporters. National Security Council officials, who announced King's release as he was being transferred from China to a U.S. base, said, 'King appears to be in good health and good spirits as he makes his way home'. The soldier would receive a full evaluation to address any medical or emotional concerns before being reunited with his family, according to the officials. They made it clear that the U.S. made no concessions to North Korea to secure King's release. The Pentagon said that before crossing the border, King had faced disciplinary action while stationed in South Korea and had served time in a correctional facility. At the time of his crossing, he was scheduled to fly to the U.S. to face additional administrative action by the U.S. Army. Officials said King's administrative status would be addressed following his successful reintegration. Copyright(c) 2023 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Die Top 3 Dividendenaktien 2024 In diesem Report stellen wir Ihnen 3 Top-Aktien aus dem Energie-Sektor vor, die Sie unbedingt auf Ihre Watchlist setzen mussen. Lassen Sie sich diese kostenlose Analyse nicht entgehen! Hier klicken A multidisciplinary team from Quantinuum, QuTech (Delft University of Technology) and the University of Stuttgart used the H1 quantum computer to demonstrate a noteworthy advance in fault-tolerant operations CAMBRIDGE, England and BROOMFIELD, Colo., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fault-tolerant quantum computers that offer radical new solutions to some of the world's most pressing problems in medicine, finance and the environment, as well as facilitating a truly widespread use of AI, are driving global interest in quantum technologies. Yet the various timetables that have been established for achieving this paradigm require major breakthroughs and innovations to remain achievable, and none is more pressing than the move from merely physical qubits to those that are fault-tolerant. In one of the first meaningful steps along this path, scientists from Quantinuum, the world's largest integrated quantum computing company, along with collaborators, have demonstrated the first fault-tolerant method using three logically-encoded qubits on the Quantinuum H1 quantum computer, Powered by Honeywell, to perform a mathematical procedure. Fault-tolerant quantum computing methods are expected to open the way for practical solutions to real-world problems across domains such as molecular simulation, artificial intelligence, optimization, and cybersecurity. Following a succession of important breakthroughs in recent years in hardware, software and error correction, today's results announced by Quantinuum in a new paper on the arXiv, "Fault-Tolerant One-Bit Addition with the Smallest Interesting Colour Code" are a natural step forward, and reflect the growing pace of progress. Many companies and research groups are focused on achieving fault-tolerance by handling the noise that naturally arises when a quantum computer performs its operations. Quantinuum is a proven pioneer, achieving previous firsts such as demonstrating entangling gates between two logical qubits in a fully fault-tolerant manner using real-time error correction, and simulating the hydrogen molecule with two logically-encoded qubits. By performing one-bit addition using the smallest-known fault-tolerant circuit, the team achieved an error rate almost an order of magnitude lower, at ~1.1x10-3 compared to ~9.5x10-3 for the unencoded circuit. The error suppression observed was made possible by the physical error rates of the quantum charge-coupled device (QCCD) architecture used in Quantinuum's H-Series quantum computers, which are lower than in any other systems known to date. These error rates fall within the range at which fault-tolerant algorithms become feasible. Ilyas Khan, Chief Product Officer and Founder at Quantinuum, said: "In addition to continuing to provide the quantum ecosystem with evidence of what is possible in these early days of quantum computing, the current demonstration is noteworthy for its ingenuity. The ion trap architecture of our H-Series offers the lowest physical error rates and the flexibility derived from qubit transport, which allows users of our hardware to implement a much wider choice of error-correcting codes, and that is what made this possible. Watch out for further important computational advances in the coming period as we link up the quality of our hardware with tasks that are meaningful in the real world." Low-overhead logical Clifford gates, in combination with the transversal CCZ gate of the three-dimensional colour code, enabled the team to reduce the number of two-qubit gates and measurements required for one-bit addition, from over 1000, to 36. Ben Criger, Senior Research Scientist at Quantinuum, and principal investigator on the paper, said: "The CCZ gate, which we've demonstrated here, is a key ingredient in Shor's algorithm, quantum Monte Carlo, topological data analysis, and a host of other quantum algorithms. This result proves that real hardware is now capable of running all the essentials of fault-tolerant quantum computing - state preparation, Clifford gates, non-Clifford gates and logical measurement - together." About Quantinuum Quantinuum is the world's largest integrated standalone quantum computing company, formed by the combination of Honeywell Quantum Solutions' world-leading hardware and Cambridge Quantum's class-leading middleware and applications. Science-led and enterprise-driven, Quantinuum accelerates quantum computing and the development of applications across chemistry, cybersecurity, finance and optimization. Its focus is to create scalable and commercial quantum solutions to solve the world's most pressing problems in fields such as energy, logistics, climate change, and health. The company employs over 480 individuals, including 350+ scientists and engineers, at eight sites across the United States, Europe, and Japan. For more information, please visit http://www.quantinuum.com. The Honeywell trademark is used under license from Honeywell International Inc. Honeywell makes no representations or warranties with respect to this service. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2223685/Quantinuum_H2.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/quantinuums-h1-quantum-computer-successfully-executes-a-fully-fault-tolerant-algorithm-with-three-logically-encoded-qubits-301940979.html NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2023consistently shows its commitment to supporting breastfeeding moms. With products like the S12 Pro Hands-Free Breast Pump and spotlighting significant initiatives during the US National Breastfeeding Month and the launch of the Breastfeeding Support Program, the brand faithfully upholds its mission. Eager to amplify its global reach, Momcozy is set to extend its support to the European market in the latter half of 2023. Reflecting on the positive response to Momcozy's initiatives, the universal need and enthusiasm for breastfeeding support is evident. Harnessing this momentum and acknowledging the unique challenges European mothers face, Momcozy is eager to expand its commitment to Europe. Beyond maternity products, Momcozy is committed to empowering new and expectant mothers. During National Breastfeeding Month, the brand hosted a webinar by Dr. Colette Wisemen, educating mothers on breastfeeding. Momcozy also distributed curated gift boxes filled with essential items. Another significant initiative introduced was the Breastfeeding Support Program. This program offers mothers a comprehensive suite of support and benefits, including accessible education and maternity solutions. Furthermore, its Lactation Consultant Scholarship Fundprovides IBCLC exam reimbursement, enhancing career opportunities. Beyond support initiatives, Momcozy offers a diverse product range for mothers and babies. Among its catalogue, its hands-free breast pumps like the S12 Pro, soft nursing and pumping bras, including the Seamless Nursing Bra, and breast health tools like the Kneading Lactation Massager, ensure comfort for mothers. For babies, standout products like the Video Baby Monitor and Natural Bamboo Diapers provide comfort while offering parents peace of mind. "We're excited to bring Momcozy's trusted products to the European market in the second half of 2023," said a representative. "This expansion is not just about widening our geographical range; it's about reaching more mothers and offering the comfort, convenience, and community that Momcozy represents." About Momcozy Since 2018, Momcozy has been bringing the best in comfort to mothers with wearable breast pumps, nursing bras and other mom caring products. Endorsed by 3 million mothers in over 40 countries, Momcozy is a companion to women from pregnancy to early motherhood. With continuous innovation and a commitment to creating cozy designs born from love, Momcozy is growing in reach and impact to make moms'lives easier around the world. TOULOUSE, France, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cell-Easy, a specialized contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) in cell therapy, proudly announces the appointment of Mrs. Gisele Deblandre as the Chief Scientific Officer. Over the years, Cell-Easy has recognized the challenges faced by biotechs in bridging the gap between early-stage projects and clinical development. While leading CDMOs emphasize their capacities, Cell-Easy identified that biotechs were seeking capabilities. As such, biotechs need a CDMO that understands their scientific vision and possesses the skills and resources to efficiently scale up processes while considering costs and timelines. To meet this demand, Cell-Easy made substantial investments in internalizing analytical resources and assembling a top-tier scientific team. With extensive expertise in developing manufacturing processes and analytical methods for cell-based therapies, Gisele Deblandre will play a pivotal role in advancing Cell-Easy's scientific initiatives and accelerating client projects. Gisele Deblandre brings a distinctive background in GMP-grade cell-based product development within the field of immuno-oncology, encompassing various cell types, including iPSCs. She played a vital role in MaSTherCell's growth, transforming it from a startup into a renowned CDMO. Previously, she served as CSO at CELLBOX and held the position of Head of Science and Technology at CATALENT Cell Therapy. She holds a Ph.D. in Molecular Cell Biology from the University of Brussels in Belgium. Guillaume Costecalde, Co-Founder and President of Cell-Easy, expressed his excitement, stating, "We are delighted to have Mrs. Gisele Deblandre on board as part of our leadership team. Cell-Easy's goal is to become the top choice as a CDMO partner for biotech and pharma firms seeking a streamlined transition from proof of concept to clinical success. Our firm focus on scientific excellence in cell development and GMP production is essential for achieving a swift transition to 'first in human' trials while maintaining cost-efficiency and adherence to timelines. Gisele's expertise in immuno-oncology further strengthens our commitment to delivering on this promise to all our partners." Gisele Deblandre shared, "I'm enthusiastic about joining Cell-Easy, as our shared vision extends beyond mere service provision; we aim to be genuine partners to early-stage biotechs and larger companies that need to scale their production. My focus is on enhancing Cell-Easy's service portfolio and reinforcing our customer-centric approach. Offering scientific guidance to biotechs, efficiently scaling their processes while respecting their timelines, budgets, and procedures undoubtedly paves the way for mutual success." This appointment marks a significant milestone for Cell-Easy, underscoring its commitment to excellence and innovation in cell-based therapies. The company eagerly anticipates continued collaboration and achievements in the future. About Cell-Easy Cell-Easy is a rapidly growing Contract Development and Manufacturing Services organization (CDMO) with a dedicated focus on Advanced Cell Therapies. Established in 2017, Cell-Easy's commitment extends beyond development and manufacturing; it also places a strong emphasis on regulatory and analytical aspects. Cell-Easy offers a comprehensive suite of services, including process development, process scale-up, cGMP manufacturing, and analytical support for immune cells (engineered CAR, -T cells, -NK cells, and non-engineered cells), as well as adult stem cells (MSCs, iPSCs, and Exosomes). Cell-Easy has achieved significant milestones, such as advancing programs to Phase 2 and partnering with top 30 international pharmaceutical companies, while also transitioning processes from autologous to allogenic. With tailored CDMO solutions, Cell-Easy is dedicated to efficiently bridging the gap between R&D projects and clinical development, saving both time and costs. Explore our full range of services at www.cell-easy.com. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1f704e14-1f84-41f5-9b5b-fde2831334c0 In diesem Report stellen wir Ihnen 3 Top-Aktien aus dem Energie-Sektor vor, die Sie unbedingt auf Ihre Watchlist setzen mussen. Lassen Sie sich diese kostenlose Analyse nicht entgehen! WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - JetBlue Airways Corporation (JBLU), a low-cost airline company, on Thursday said it is revising down its third-quarter outlook citing air traffic and weather-related disruptions. The airline said that the air traffic control and weather-related disruptions due to convective activity in the Northeast were more than expected in the quarter that affected crew and associated disruption costs and flown revenue, the company said in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. For the third-quarter, the company now expects its revenue to be near the low end of its previous guidance range. On August 1, JetBlue had projected for a year-on-year decline of 4 percent to 8 percent in its third-quarter revenue. The airline now forecast available seat miles ASMs to be up around seven percent year-over-year, the midpoint of its prior guidance range. Earlier, the company had projected ASMs growth of 5.5 percent to 8.5 percent. JetBlue now expects a fuel price per gallon, net of fuel taxes and hedges, of around $2.95 for the third quarter as fuel prices have increased significantly. 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. Winners demonstrated excellence in sustainability, safety and community service CHARLOTTE, NC / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Duke Energy has chosen eight organizations to receive its 2023 Power Partner Award. The annual program founded in 1992 honors businesses and other organizations that have demonstrated excellence in sustainability, safety, service, and problem solving. "We value our large commercial, industrial and government customers and encourage them to strive for organizational excellence," said Chris Edge, Duke Energy vice president of large business customers. "All the winners awarded this year have innovated in ways that benefit their employees, stakeholders and greater community." The 2023 Power Partner award-winning organizations are: Alamance-Burlington School System Burlington, N.C. Category: Sustainability Excellence The Alamance-Burlington School System (ABSS) is a school district covering Alamance County and the city of Burlington, N.C., with an enrollment of approximately 23,000 students. The school system is committed to participation in Duke Energy's Energy Efficiency (EE) Design Assistance programs for new facilities and has enrolled facilities in extensive retrofitting projects resulting in valuable energy savings. Milliken & Company Spartanburg, S.C. Category: Sustainability Excellence Milliken & Company, an industrial manufacturer of textiles, floor coverings and chemicals, works closely with Duke Energy to develop economically viable solutions to meet their desired 2025 sustainability goals. Milliken's Magnolia/Allen plant in Blacksburg, S.C., opted into Duke Energy's EE programs, using its custom performance incentives to eliminate coal as an on-site fuel source and to significantly reduce air pollutant emissions. Also, as part of Duke Energy's net metering program, Milliken installed two solar arrays at their Roger Milliken Center (RMC) Global Headquarters. Evonik Tippecanoe, Ind. Category: Safety Partnership Evonik, a German based chemical company, partnered with Duke Energy to strengthen the safety culture at its Tippecanoe Laboratory site. Through this partnership, Evonik and the Duke Energy Lafayette Distribution Operations Team performed "Safety Days," a series of live-line demonstrations designed to communicate everyday best safety practices to Evonik employees. Evonik also worked with Duke Energy to install warning signage underneath on-site high voltage lines and sought consultation on safe vegetation clearing practices. Catawba College Salisbury, N.C. Category: Sustainability Excellence Catawba College, a longtime customer of Duke Energy, was recently recognized for becoming the first campus in North Carolina and the Southeast to achieve carbon neutrality. Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions (DESS) assisted Catawba College with the development of a sustainability plan that got them to this goal. In addition, the college used DESS resources to upgrade their campus electric system and implement a campus-wide metering system to track their energy usage. Working together with Duke Energy, the college was able to achieve their 2030 goal of carbon neutrality seven years ahead of schedule. Duke University Durham, N.C. Category: Sustainability Excellence Duke University has established the Duke Climate Commitment, a university-wide initiative to address climate change. To advance this initiative, the university is a participant in Duke Energy's Green Source Advantage (GSA) Program, which enabled the construction of three solar arrays totaling 100.9 MW of renewable generation. In addition, the university has installed net-metered solar arrays, totaling approximately 876 kW of clean energy. Purdue Research Foundation West Lafayette, Ind. Category: Service Excellence Purdue Research Foundation (PRF) has two major development sites within Duke Energy Indiana's service territory, Purdue Research Park and Discovery Park District. Both sites are creating jobs and bringing capital investment to the West Lafayette, IN community. Three projects have broken ground at these sites in 2023: the Rolls-Royce High Altitude Test Facility, Rolls-Royce Hybrid Electric Test Facility, and Ascension St. Vincent Hospital campus. Duke Energy Indiana and PRF have partnered closely to develop a long-term planning strategy to accommodate future growth at these facilities. FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotech USA Holly Springs, N.C. Category: Solution Innovation In March 2021, FujiFilm Diosynth announced that Holly Springs, N.C. had been selected for their new cell production site. By 2025, FujiFilm will invest $2 billion into the site and surrounding community, creating 725 skilled jobs that pay an average of $100,000. Duke Energy will serve the 16 MW campus, which will be the largest culture bio-pharmaceutical contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) in North America. The facility will enable FujiFilm to produce transformative medicine to meet market demand. FujiFilm has also partnered with Duke Energy to provide backup generation to the site through a 15-year Premier Power agreement. Further, the design and construction of the campus will align with Fujifilm's Sustainable Value Plan. Toray Resin Company Shelbyville, Ind. Category: Sustainability Excellence Toray Resin Company, an international plastics manufacturer, partnered with Duke Energy to construct a solar energy facility capable of producing up to 900 kilowatts of power at its campus in Shelbyville, Ind. Toray Resin Company signed up to be the first participant in Duke Energy Indiana's solar services pilot program, which aims to make it easier for businesses, schools and nonprofits to incorporate clean, renewable energy sources into their energy mix. Under the program, Duke Energy owns, operates and maintains the Blue River Solar Facility on Toray Resin's campus for a monthly service fee. The program provides Toray Resin with the advantages of clean energy while minimizing upfront costs and maintenance obligations. Construction on the 8-acre, ground-mounted solar project began in October 2021, and it was brought into service in 2023. Duke Energy Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. Its electric utilities serve 8.2 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 50,000 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas unit serves 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. The company employs 27,600 people. Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy transition to achieve its goals of net-zero methane emissions from its natural gas business by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2050. The company has interim carbon emission targets of at least 50% reduction from electric generation by 2030, 50% for Scope 2 and certain Scope 3 upstream and downstream emissions by 2035, and 80% from electric generation by 2040. In addition, the company is investing in major electric grid enhancements and energy storage, and exploring zero-emission power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear. Duke Energy was named to Fortune's 2023 "World's Most Admired Companies" list and Forbes' "World's Best Employers" list. More information is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos and videos. Duke Energy's illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook. 24-Hour media line: 800.559.3853 View original content here. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Duke Energy on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Duke Energy Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/duke-energy Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Duke Energy View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/788320/duke-energy-honors-eight-organizations-with-2023-power-partner-awards With its $2M debt burden fully paid down and significant cost cutting initiatives completed, Turnium has signed multi-year contracts with new customers, improving overall revenue and Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR) heading into 2024 Vancouver, Canada--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - Turnium Technology Group Inc. (TSXV: TTGI) (FSE: E48) ("Turnium" or "the Company"), announces that it has signed a 5-year OEM licensing agreement with a large technology group and service provider in South-East Asia. The new 5-Year OEM licensing agreement with the South-East Asian service provider, signed on July 18, 2023, will activate across Indonesia initially. Turnium will capture a major business market where the Service Provider intends to expand their Enterprise and Government offerings to deliver reliability, better bandwidth, and failover with secure connectivity to multiple mission critical sites. This new licensing agreement further confirms that Turnium's solution is Government and Enterprise grade, which is being actively sold in similar customer market segments worldwide. Turnium continues to gain momentum and capture market share, with this news release coming fresh off of the September 12th announcement where Turnium contracted with UK-based SDWAN & SASE Solutions. This 3-year contract, signed on May 23, 2023, has the potential to increase revenue by $24M over the next two years, on a $2M in monthly recurring revenue (MRR) basis with gross margins greater than 80%. "We continue to find success in the Asia Pacific region, as our partners look for cost-effective connectivity solutions for their Enterprise and Government customers," said Derek Spratt, Chief Executive Officer at Turnium. "As our global partner network (Comms365, Damen IT Groep, Metro Lightspeed, SDWAN & SASE Solutions), continues to expand, we are seeing rapid revenue growth, giving us a clear near-term pathway to positive cash flow, and we expect FY2024 revenue growth close to the overall market along with double-digit EBITDA margins." The SD-WAN market is expected to increase at a 31.6% CAGR from US$3.4B in 2022 to US$54B in 2032, according to Future Market Insights Inc. Turnium's Global Partnership Program continues to add fresh growth opportunities that are translating into major contract agreements and wins, as announced on August 24th in the new Go-To-Market AI and Smart Connectivity Solutions. With a refreshed offering, major new customers being onboarded, and the removal of a $2M debt burden, the Company is focused on growth and contract fulfilment, as well as the potential merger with ActivePort (ASX: ATV) - the indicative terms of the non-binding LOI were originally announced on April 3, and May 5, 2023. About Turnium Technology Group Inc. Turnium Technology Group Inc. delivers its SD-WAN solution as a white label, containerized, disaggregated software platform that OEM channel partners host, manage, brand, and price. Turnium is also available to Resellers as a Turnium-branded managed service. Turnium SD-WAN solutions is sold through a channel partner program designed for Communications Service Providers, Internet and Managed Service Providers, System Integrators, and Value-Added Resellers. For more information, contact sales@ttgi.io, visit www.turnium.com, or follow us on Twitter @turnium. About SD-WAN SD-WAN is revolutionizing the networking and telecommunications industry by abstracting secure, high-speed networking and network control from underlying physical circuits. SD-WAN frees enterprises, small and medium businesses, cloud and managed services providers from the business and cost constraints imposed by traditional telecommunications companies. # # # Turnium Contact: Chairman: Ralph Garcea, Email: rgarcea@ttgi.io, Telephone: +1 416-304-9125 Investor Relations: Bill Mitoulas, Email: investor.relations@ttgi.io, Telephone: +1 416-479-9547 Media inquiries: please email media@ttgi.io. Sales inquiries: please email sales@ttgi.io www.ttgi.io, www.turnium.com CAUTIONARY NOTES Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Information This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain acts, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company, as the case may be, to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements depending on, among other things, the risks that the Company may terminate and not proceed with the Agreement, or that the Agreement and associated transactions will not be successfully completed for any reason (including failure to obtain the required acceptance from the TSX Venture Exchange). The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/182208 State-of-the-Art Facility to Offer Access to Psilocybin Treatments FT. LAUDERDALE, FL / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Kaya Holdings, Inc., ("KAYS" or the "Company") (OTCQB:KAYS) announced today that it has secured premium space for its planned psilocybin treatment center, The Sacred Mushroom. Seen above, the almost 11,000 square foot space on the top floor of Portland Oregon's iconic Falcon Building offers the Company the opportunity to implement its proprietary and innovative approach to psilocybin treatments. The Sacred Mushroom, a one-of-a-kind Psilocybin Production and Facilitation Center in Portland, Oregon will be designed to provide visitors with access to its microdosing cafe, private treatment rooms and group session areas, as well as activity zones that include yoga, listening stations, journaling chairs, and expression through art - delivering a comfortable and relaxing environment for psychedelic treatments. "This space is ideal for the delivery of effective psilocybin experiences for people with a wide array of treatment resistant mental health disorders," remarked KAYS' CEO Craig Frank. "We intend to reach out to people with PTSD, addictions, eating disorders, and depression to provide access to affordable relief, making The Scared Mushroom a center for healing." In 2014, KAYS became the first US public company to own and operate a medical cannabis dispensary in the United States and is again seeking to break ground with the planned opening of The Sacred Mushroom Psilocybin Treatment Center. KAYS plans to operate The Sacred Mushroom as part of its Fifth Dimension Therapeutics, Inc. subsidiary ("FDT"), which also plans to work cooperatively with select pharmaceutical companies to maximize the curative potential of psilocybin. "We believe that the executed lease with the Falcon Building is a significant milestone in our efforts to launch this first location," said W. David Jones, KAYS Sr. Advisor for Business Development and Financial Operations. "The Sacred Mushroom intends to file its Oregon health Authority ("OHA") Licensing application within the next 30 days, as we have already confirmed zoning approval with the City of Portland (through approval of the requisite Land Use Compatibility Statement), and Bryan Arnold (a KAYS employee and vice president of FDT) has already received his OHA Psilocybin Facilitator license which will allow him to oversee the operation at The Sacred Mushroom. " The launch of "The Sacred Mushroom Psilocybin Treatment Center is dependent, among other matters on final OHA licensing and receipt of final financing from our investors. KAYS SHAREHOLDERS AND OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES - PLEASE UPDATE YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION We routinely receive calls and emails from shareholders asking us questions about KAYS, so we are asking all KAYS shareholders to email us and confirm their contact info. Please email info@kayaholdings.com with "KAYS shareholder update" in the subject line and include your name, address, phone number and number of shares you own so that we may make sure you receive all updates and can respond to any shareholder inquiries. If you would like to speak to someone at the Company, please call or text 954-480-3960 and someone will get right back to you. About Kaya Holdings, Inc. (www.kayaholdings.com) Kaya Holdings, Inc is a "mind care" company with operations in medical/recreational cannabis and pending operations in the emerging psilocybin sector. KAYS is a fully reporting, US-based publicly traded company, listed for trading on the over-the-counter market under the symbol KAYS. In 2014 KAYS became the first US public company to own and operate a medical cannabis dispensary (in Portland, Oregon). The Company still operates the original Kaya Shack cannabis dispensary while seeking to shift our cannabis operations to serve the European Union. KAYS has interests in three medical cannabis licenses (2 in Greece, 1 in Israel) to advance this effort. Resuming its role as innovator and trend setter, the Company is again breaking ground in the United States with the planned introduction of psilocybin treatment centers through our majority-owned subsidiary, Fifth Dimension Therapeutics, Inc. ("FDT"). KAYS subsidiaries include: Fifth Dimension Therapeutics, Inc. serves as the Company's operating branch in the psychedelic treatment sector, including operation of mushroom cultivation facilities and The Scared Mushroom treatment centers. Marijuana Holdings Americas, Inc. owns the Kaya Shack brand of licensed medical and recreational marijuana stores (www.kayashack.com) and the Kaya Farms brand of cannabis production and processing operations in the United States. Kaya Brands International, Inc., serves as the vehicle for the Company's non-U.S. operations including cultivation activities under development in Greece and Israel. Kaya Brands USA, Inc. owns a wide range of proprietary brands of cannabis extracts, oils, pre-rolls, topicals, edibles and beverages, cannaceuticals and related accessories. Important Disclosure KAYS is planning execution of its stated business objectives in accordance with current understanding of state and local laws and federal enforcement policies and priorities as it relates to psychedelics and cannabis. Potential investors and shareholders are cautioned that KAYS and subsidiaries including FDT will obtain advice of counsel prior to actualizing any portion of their business plan (including but not limited to license applications for the cultivation, distribution or sale of marijuana and psychedelic products, engaging in said activities or acquiring existing production/sales operations). Advice of counsel with regard to specific activities of KAYS, federal, state or local legal action or changes in federal government policy and/or state and local laws may adversely affect business operations and shareholder value. Additionally, the launch of The Sacred Mushroom Psilocybin Treatment Center is dependent, among other matters, on final Oregon Health Authority ("OHA") licensing and receipt of final financing from our investors. Forward-Looking Statements This press release includes statements that may constitute "forward-looking" statements, usually containing the words "believe," "estimate," "project," "expect" or similar statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements inherently involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. Factors that would cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, acceptance of the Company's current and future products and services in the marketplace, the ability of the Company to develop effective new products and receive regulatory approvals of such products, competitive factors, dependence upon third-party vendors, and other risks detailed in the Company's periodic report filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. By making these forward-looking statements, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release. SOURCE: Kaya Holdings View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/788140/kaya-holdings-otcqbkays-secures-site-for-the-sacred-mushroomtm-planned-psilocybin-treatment-center Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API) (OTCQX: APAAF) (FSE: A0I0) (FSE: A0I0.F) (FSE: A0I0.MU) (FSE: A0I0.BE) (the "Company" or "Appia") is pleased to provide an update on the progress of its ongoing drilling program to outline the extent of the mineralized zone at Target IV on its PCH Iconic Clay Project in Brazil. To date, the Company has processed and sent 2,255 samples for analysis, from both the Reverse Circulation (RC) and Auger drill programs, and expects to release results in the near future. Summary: Completed 232 drill holes for a total of 2847.5 metres, of which: Reverse Circulation drilling: 147 holes totaling of 2,019 metres. Auger drilling: 84 holes totalling of 585 metres. Diamond drilling - Completion of 243.50 metres. Logging and sampling is ongoing, and currently, 2,255 samples have been sent to SGS Geosol laboratory for assaying. "The reverse circulation (RC) drilling has averaged roughly 13 metres depth, often exceeding 20 metres depth and encountering clayey materials in the majority of holes. Auger sampling, on the other hand, has an average depth of about 7 metres, with samples collected every meter," stated Carlos Bastos, Geology Manager and Brazilian QP. "And in specific cases, alternative methodologies have been applied to gain a deeper understanding of the mineralized zones and analytical methods." He continued, "With diamond, RC, and auger drilling activities running concurrently, the project has made substantial advancements. Our team is exceptionally pleased with the productivity, geological insights, and interpretation we have gathered thus far. We are confident that the forthcoming results from the SGS laboratory will strengthen our belief that we are positioned within a significant rare earth element ionic clay deposit." Map 1 - Location of Diamond, Reverse Circulation and Auger Drill holes at Target IV, PCH Project, Goias, Brazil To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5416/182206_8ec2e005443a0947_005full.jpg "Appia's RC extensive drilling program at Target IV has reached a total of 147 holes, and we have now completed the first phase of the multi-phase drilling initiatives across our +17,000 hectare PCH Ionic Clay project in Goias State, Brazil," stated Stephen Burega, President. "Working within a very tight timeline of just 51 days, our Brazilian team oversaw the program and reached an impressive 2,019 meters drilled and assays are now pending." "The RC drill program has been augmented by exploratory auger drilling and sampling, along with ground geophysics to enhance our comprehension of the subsurface composition and the potential expansion of the known mineralized area of Target IV," he continued. In addition, the Company is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the 243.50-meter diamond drill hole, which tested a strong magnetic anomaly at depth within the alkali breccia zone. Drill core will now be logged and sampled to be sent to the SGS Geosol laboratory for assaying. Appia's geologists and technicians follow strict quality assurance/quality control protocols for sample preparation and shipment to the SGS Geosol laboratories in Brazil. Image 1 - Technician processing samples at Appia's logging facility in Brazil. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5416/182206_8ec2e005443a0947_006full.jpg Tom Drivas, CEO of Appia, expressed his satisfaction with the project's progress, stating, "We are very proud of the dedicated efforts of our team in Brazil. Operating succesfully, we have effectively covered a significant area on our 100-meter spacing grid at Target IV. Furthermore, we have expanded to a 200-meter spacing grid in adjacent areas and ventured into new prospective areas outside the known deposit with auger drilling. The large land package of the PCH Project spans over 17,000 hectares within a highly prospective region." Background on the PCH Project The PCH Ionic Adsorption Clay Project is located within the Tocantins Structural Province in the Brasilia Fold Belt, more specifically, the Arenopolis Magmatic Arc. The PCH Project is 17,551.07 ha in size and located within the Goias State of Brazil. It is classified as an alkaline intrusive rock occurrence with highly anomalous REE and Niobium mineralization. This mineralization is related to alkaline lithologies of the Fazenda Buriti Plutonic Complex and the hydrothermal and surface alteration products of this complex by supergene enrichment in a tropical climate. The positive results of the recent geochemical exploration work carried out to date indicates great potential for REEs and Niobium within lateritic ionic adsorption clays. The technical content in this news release was reviewed and approved by Mr. Don Hains, P.Geo, Consulting Geologist, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. About Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (Appia) Appia is a publicly traded Canadian company in the rare earth element and uranium sectors. The Company is currently focusing on delineating high-grade critical rare earth elements and gallium on the Alces Lake property, as well as exploring for high-grade uranium in the prolific Athabasca Basin on its Otherside, Loranger, North Wollaston, and Eastside properties. The Company holds the surface rights to exploration for 113,837.15 hectares (281,297.72 acres) in Saskatchewan. The Company also has a 100% interest in 12,545 hectares (31,000 acres), with rare earth element and uranium deposits over five mineralized zones in the Elliot Lake Camp, Ontario. Lastly, the Company holds the right to acquire up to a 70% interest in the PCH Ionic Adsorption Clay Project which is 17,551.07 ha. in size and located within the Goias State of Brazil. (See June 9th, 2023 Press Release - Click Here) Appia has 130.5 million common shares outstanding, 143.3 million shares fully diluted. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This News Release contains forward-looking statements which are typically preceded by, followed by or including the words "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans" or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee 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. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. For more information, visit www.appiareu.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: Tom Drivas, CEO and Director: 416-546-2707, (fax) 416-218-9772 or (email) tdrivas@appiareu.com Stephen Burega, President: (cell) 647-515-3734 or (email) sburega@appiareu.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/182206 San Diego, California--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - Direct Communication Solutions, Inc. (OTCQX: DCSX) (CSE: DCSI) (FSE: 7QU) ("DCS" or the "Company") a leading provider of information technology solutions for the Internet of Things (IoT) market, is excited to announce it has entered into a strategic agreement (the "Agreement") on September 26, 2023 with CATrak Technologies, Inc. to offer its Catalytic Converter Theft Prevention solution. Catalytic Converter theft is on the rise on North America according to a new report based on insurance claims data released by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NCIB)*, which shows a surge in catalytic converter thefts across the country. According to NCIB, the US experienced more than 64,000 catalytic converter thefts in 2022. Leading the country in thefts are California and Texas, which experienced more than 32,000 catalytic converter thefts in 2022. Catalytic converters contain precious rare earth metals like palladium, platinum, and rhodium, that are currently more valuable than gold. The NCIB report also shares that stolen catalytic converters are typically sold to metal recyclers for $50 to $250, and up to $800 for a catalytic converter from a hybrid vehicle. Replacing a stolen catalytic converter can cost between $1,000 to $3,500 or more, depending on the type of vehicle. The loss to a business with a fleet of vehicles can suffer a significant financial impact due to loss of use of their fleet while they wait for replacement parts to be installed. Insurance companies are also spending a lot of money on replacing stolen catalytic converters. In 2021, State Farm Insurance paid out more than $73 million in converter theft claims nationally. In 2022, it jumped to $112 million. "The rise of theft has increased the awareness of businesses seeking a solution to protect fleet vehicles as well as personal automobiles. The CATrak Catalytic Converter Theft Prevention solution is a unique first line of defence preventing the widespread and costly problem of catalytic converter theft, which has a massive financial impact on the transportation industry" said Dave Scowby, COO of DCS. "Partnering with CATrak to offer their simple to deploy IoT solution and user-friendly software applications, creates unique opportunities for DCS to enable our extensive channel of dealers, partners, and resellers with IoT solutions that solve real-world problems. In addition to creating new recurring revenue streams for DCS and our partners." "DCS has deep roots in the IoT industry through its carrier partners and solutions providers. Their complete understanding and expertise in aiding IoT solutions to market, is the driving force behind CATrak working with DCS," said Mark Richardi, Cofounder and CEO of CATrak. "Leveraging the DCS managed logistics services, allows CATrak to dedicate its efforts on delivering our solution in a time where the transportation industry is experiencing a huge spike in catalytic converter thefts, costing victims and insurance companies millions of dollars in replacement parts and vehicle downtime." About DCS DCS is a technology solutions integrator focusing on connecting the Internet of Things. We provide real solutions that solve real problems. Our software applications and scalable cloud services collect and assess business-critical data from all types of assets. DCS is headquartered in San Diego, California and is publicly traded on the OTCQX ("DCSX"), Canadian Securities Exchange ("DCSI") and Frankfurt Stock Exchange ("7QU"). For more information, visit www.dcsbusiness.com . DCS and the DCS logo are among the trademarks of DCS in the United States. Any other trademarks or trade names mentioned are the property of their respective owners. About CATrak CATrak is a technology solutions provider offering a SMART IoT solution for the prevention of Catalytic Converter theft. Our mobile and cloud-based software application continuously monitors your personal automobile or fleet of vehicle's catalytic converters. Our proprietary product will notify you of a theft in progress, trigger a deterrent alarm and if stolen, assist law enforcement with its recovery using GPS tracking technologies. For more information, visit www.catraktech.com. Contacts: Chris Bursey, CEO - DCS cbursey@dcsbusiness.com 858-525-2483 Julie Hajduk, CEO - Purple Crown Media julie@purplecrown.ca 778-240-7077 Mark Richardi, Cofounder and CEO, CATrak mark@catraktech.com 949-291-0595 *NCIB: Catalytic Converter Thefts Surge Nationwide, According To New Report Forward-Looking Statements This release contains forward-looking statements, which reflect management's current views of future events and operations. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. We believe that these potential risks and uncertainties include, without limitation: the Company's dependence on third-party manufacturers, suppliers, technologies and infrastructure; risks related to intellectual property; industry risks including competition, online security, government regulation and global economic conditions; and the Company's financial position and need for additional funding, Statements in this release should be evaluated in light of these factors. These risk factors and other important factors that could affect our business and financial results are discussed in our Management's Discussion and Analysis, periodic reports and other public filings which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca at and posted with the OTC Disclosure and News Service. DCS undertakes no duty to update or revise any forward-looking statements. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/182171 SAN ANTONIO The American soldier who sprinted into North Korea across the heavily fortified border between the Koreas more than two months ago arrived back in the U.S. early Thursday, video appeared to show. North Korea abruptly announced Wednesday that it would expel Pvt. Travis King. His return was organized with the help of ally Sweden and rival China, according to the White House. While officials have said King, 23, is in good health and the immediate focus will be on caring for him and reintegrating him into U.S. society, his troubles are likely far from over. King, who had served in South Korea, ran into the North while on a civilian tour of a border village on July 18, becoming the first American confirmed to be detained in the isolated country in nearly five years. At the time, he was supposed to be heading to Fort Bliss, Texas, following his release from prison in South Korea on an assault conviction. He has been declared AWOL from the Army. In many cases, someone who is AWOL for more than a month can automatically be considered a deserter. Punishment for going AWOL or desertion can vary, and it depends in part on whether the service member voluntarily returned or was apprehended. King's handover by the North Koreans makes that more complicated. Video aired Thursday by a Texas news station appeared to show King walking off a plane in San Antonio. Dressed in a dark top and pants, he could be seen speaking briefly with people waiting on the tarmac. He shook hands with one before being led into a building. Emails seeking comment were sent to Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, the Air Force and the Army. Officials earlier said he would be taken to Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston. He is expected to undergo psychological assessments and debriefings, and he will also get a chance to meet with family. He will be in military custody throughout the process since his legal situation is complicated. Many questions remain about King's case, including why he fled in the first place and why the North which has tense relations with Washington over Pyongyang's nuclear program, support for Russia's war in Ukraine and other issues agreed to turn him over. The White House has not addressed North Korean state media reports that King fled because of his dismay about racial discrimination and inequality in the military and U.S. society. The North's official Korean Central News Agency reported that King made such complaints but verifying that is impossible. On Wednesday, Swedish officials took King to the Chinese border, where he was met by U.S. Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns, the Swedish ambassador to China, and at least one U.S. Defense Department official. He was then flown to a U.S. military base in South Korea before heading to the U.S. His detention was relatively short by North Korean standards. Several recent American detainees had been held for over a year 17 months in the case of Otto Warmbier, a college student who was arrested during a group tour. Warmbier was in a coma when he was deported, and later died. North Korea has often been accused of using American detainees as bargaining chips, and there had also been speculation that the North would try to maximize the propaganda value of a U.S. soldier. But analysts say King's legal troubles could have limited his propaganda value, and Biden administration officials insisted they provided no concessions to North Korea to secure his release. Photos: Kim Jong Un's public appearances through the years 85% of UK respondents have suffered an API security incident in the last 12 months compared to an overall average of 78%. LONDON, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Noname Security, provider of the most complete API security platform, today announced the findings from its annual API security report, "The API Security Disconnect 2023". Twelve months on from the inaugural study, the report reveals that the number of API security incidents is rising, and as a result API security is more of a priority now than it was 12 months ago. However, at odds with this is the level of confidence to tackle these incidents. In 2022 61% said they were confident in their DAST and SAST tools for API testing, but despite more security incidents taking place in the interim, in 2023 94% say they are confident that their current application testing tools are capable of testing APIs for vulnerabilities. The report surveyed both UK and USA respondents and found that 84% of UK businesses said that API security is more of a priority now than it was 12 months ago, compared to 78% of USA respondents. However, 85% of UK respondents have suffered an API security incident in the last 12 months, a 10.6% year-on-year increase and higher than the average of 78%. Other key UK findings include: 51% of UK respondents cited fees incurred to help fix the issues as the biggest impact of an API security incident. - 50% cited loss of customer goodwill and churned accounts, similarly 49% said loss of productivity was the biggest impact. - 50% cited loss of customer goodwill and churned accounts, similarly 49% said loss of productivity was the biggest impact. 52% of UK respondents now view API security as a necessary requirement for their business. - 47% say it is a business enabler. - 47% say it is a business enabler. 54% of UK respondents say their developers are spending between 26% and 50% of their time on refactoring and remediation. The survey examined the most common attack vectors experienced by UK respondents, and they cited Network Firewalls (24%), Web Application Firewalls (23%), and API Gateways (17%). This is a change from last year, when Dormant or Zombie APIs and Authorisation Vulnerabilities were at the top of the list (both 19%). Overall, the visibility of API inventories has improved compared to 2022. In this year's report, 70% of UK respondents said they had a full inventory of their APIs, compared to 66% in 2022. However, this year the numbers dropped slightly for those who have a full inventory but don't know which return sensitive data - to 34% in the UK in comparison to 38% last year. Amidst a growing number of API security incidents, Noname Security's research revealed an increase in real-time API security testing. The number of UK respondents testing in real-time increased slightly from 14% in 2022 to 17% in 2023, whereas 53% of UK respondents tested in real-time or once a day. Shay Levi, Noname Security CTO and co-founder, comments on the findings: "The continuing increase in reported API security incidents over the last two years demonstrates that this is not a fleeting trend but a pressing reality that organisations must deal with and prioritise. APIs are indispensable in today's modern environment, but everyone is worried about ransomware, phishing attacks, and data breaches. This research validates why security leaders must continue to prioritise API security." If you are interested in reading the full results from Noname Security's "The API Security Disconnect - API Security Trends in 2023" report, please click here. About Noname Security Noname Security is the only company taking a complete, proactive approach to API Security. Noname works with 20% of the Fortune 500 and covers the entire API security scope across three pillars - Posture Management, Runtime Security, and API Security Testing. Noname Security is privately held, remote-first with headquarters in Silicon Valley, California, and offices in Tel Aviv and London. Methodology - 2023 Research Noname Security commissioned independent research organisation, Opinion Matters, to undertake the second API Disconnect Survey in May 2023. 631 senior cybersecurity professionals in the UK and USA were surveyed from across a variety of enterprise organisations in six key vertical market sectors: financial services, retail and eCommerce, healthcare, government and public sector, manufacturing, and energy and utilities. Methodology - 2022 Research Noname Security commissioned independent research organisation, Opinion Matters, to undertake the first API Security Disconnect Survey in July 2022. 600 senior cybersecurity professionals in the UK and USA were surveyed from across a variety of enterprise organisations in six key vertical market sectors: financial services, retail and eCommerce, healthcare, government and public sector, manufacturing, and energy and utilities. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/noname-securitys-api-security-report-reveals-api-security-incidents-are-rising-301939191.html The new tool allows influencers to rapidly compile location-based recommendations on topic-based maps with the click of a button, vastly easing the process of collecting and sharing valuable social media user insights TEL AVIV, Israel, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Atly, the user-generated social mapping platform revolutionizing location-based knowledge sharing, today introduced its new Ask Around tool. The innovative addition to the Atly app allows influencers to seamlessly and swiftly gather recommendations for places and experiences from their followers on a map. In doing so, the feature enables influencers to rapidly expand their pre-existing topic-based maps, as well as easily share these community insights with social media users. Influencers are sought after resources, both for their own original insights and the ability to distribute the collective wisdom of their followers. But the process of gathering and sharing location-based recommendations from and with their followers is cumbersome. Currently, to collect these insights, influencers are tasked with manually sifting through information shared via comments and DMs and then generating a resource - whether a social media post, story, or external blog post - where the information is relayed and converted into actionable insights. This process is not only time-consuming but also lacks built-in tools to organize and share findings to fully utilize the data collected. Ask Around addresses these issues head-on by automatically integrating location-based recommendations from social media users on an influencer's map. An influencer shares a customized link, allowing followers to input their recommendations without exiting the app. These recommended places are then automatically collected on the influencer's Atly map, rapidly expanding points of interest within the map and generating an additional tool in the influencer's toolkit for sharing information. This novel approach empowers influencers with robust data sets generated in shorter time frames than previously possible and enriches the influencer-follower interaction by providing users added value in the form of expanded, more immersive maps, crowdsourced from like-minded people. "The traditional interaction between influencers and followers is missing the critical component of collaboration, so we decided to offer influencers a tool to collect recommendations from their followers in a new, simple, and efficient way," said Uriel Maslansky, CEO and Co-Founder of Atly. "By introducing Ask Around, Atly is taking a leap forward in influencer engagement through social mapping, offering influencers and their followers a powerful tool that not only enhances their interaction but also generates more comprehensive maps than previously imaginable. We look forward to seeing the creative ways in which influencers and social media users will utilize this, and to continuing to harness the collective wisdom of the community, transforming it into actionable insights for people across the globe." By facilitating the swift accumulation of data points from thousands of followers, Atly's new tool can compile volumes of useful location-based recommendations that would have previously taken weeks, months, and even years to achieve. This wealth of information allows for the swift creation of comprehensive and detailed maps, presenting an unprecedented opportunity to chart anything with ease, from hidden gems in a city to trending food spots or travel destinations. "Influencers using Ask Around can now gather highly focused and complete data sets that have never existed before, with the potential to outpace existing wholly dedicated, interest-specific platforms and apps," said Joshua Kaufman, Co-Founder at Atly. "From maps featuring the top gluten-free spots to the must-see sights in a given vacation destination, this new dimension of interactivity generates a large volume of shared points of interest and reviews nearly instantly, creating community-centered maps that ensure both influencers and followers benefit from a richer, more engaging experience on the Atly platform and IRL." "The Ask Around feature is hands down one of my favorite features of the Gluten Free Eats map. It makes it so easy to gather community knowledge," said Lauren Murawski, the Instagram creator behind @eat.glutenfreewithme. "I love to use the feature when I travel, so that I have a list of options right when I arrive in a new city. Because who knows a city better than the people who live in it and eat there regularly? It's the best way to find the best hidden gluten-free gems." Download Atly and access the new Ask Around tool in the App Store or Google Play Store by clicking here. About Atly Atly is a social mapping platform purpose-built for discovering places to go and things to do. The Tel Aviv and New York-based company is dedicated to facilitating location-based knowledge sharing by enabling users to create map-based communities alongside like-minded people about the places and things they love. With over 7,000 communities across the globe, Atly's proprietary collaborative app blends the visual intuitiveness of mapping with the niche-based specificity of online forums or interest groups, all while leveraging the crowdsourced insights of social media community sharing. Press Contact Allison Grey Headline Media atly@headline.media US: +1 323 283 8176 UK: +44 203 807 4482 IL: +972 53 820 2606 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/atly-introduces-ask-around-tool-to-allow-influencers-to-seamlessly-gather-and-share-recommendations-from-their-followers-301941550.html Hyperdrive turns existing regional databases into globally distributed ones for faster access to data across the globe Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE: NET), the leading connectivity cloud company, today announced Hyperdrive to make every local database global. Now developers can easily build globally distributed applications on Cloudflare Workers, the serverless developer platform used by over one million developers, without being constrained by their existing infrastructure. Hyperdrive makes accessing data from across the globe faster and more efficient, no matter where the data or end-users are. Most organizations using legacy cloud providers typically have databases hosted in a single region that cannot be easily replicated or migrated elsewhere. Transferring these databases to new locations close to users comes with business disruption tradeoffs-it is costly and time intensive to move databases while ensuring business-as-usual. And yet, when building on modern distributed cloud platforms, including Cloudflare Workers, developers frequently need to connect back to these existing databases around the world. Connecting to faraway databases results in a slower experience for their users, and makes it challenging for teams to expand beyond a single legacy cloud region. With Hyperdrive, developers can build globally distributed applications on Cloudflare Workers that are not held back by their existing regional database infrastructure. Hyperdrive automatically caches the most popular queries within Cloudflare's network, allowing developers to serve responses within a few milliseconds, not hundreds as if the database was located close to the end user. An ecommerce site with a database in New York and customers in Europe can now use Hyperdrive and the Cloudflare network to make that database function as if it is in Europe, right next to those customers, for a much faster turnaround time and more responsive end-user experience. "With Cloudflare, developers never need to decide where their data should live before they've written a line of code; we consider everything built on us to be one region: Earth. Today, we're able to give organizations a faster, more connected experience to ensure no matter where your existing data lives, it benefits from the speed and performance of Cloudflare's network," said Matthew Prince, CEO and co-founder, Cloudflare. "Hyperdrive represents the best part of a connectivity cloud, it expands the types of apps that can be built on Cloudflare, and opens the door for developers that previously felt locked into their databases." Cloudflare Workers is the only global serverless provider with this built into the application development platform. Hyperdrive works with the existing database tools developers use today and: Enables database connection pooling to Workers , turning what can be half a second to set up a database connection on every request into near-zero when re-used. , turning what can be half a second to set up a database connection on every request into near-zero when re-used. Caches the most popular queries to a database , which typically represent 80-90% of the queries issued by user-facing web applications. Caching both dramatically improves the performance of full-stack applications, and subsequently reduces database load and cost. , which typically represent 80-90% of the queries issued by user-facing web applications. Caching both dramatically improves the performance of full-stack applications, and subsequently reduces database load and cost. Supports a wide range of the most popular database providers, including those hosted on AWS, Google Cloud, Neon and Timescale, as well as Postgres-compatible databases like CockroachDB and Materialize. Cloudflare Workers is part of Cloudflare's global connectivity cloud-a platform that enables any organization to easily, securely, and reliably connect all of its people, apps, servers, networks, and other clouds, everywhere. To learn more, please check out the resources below: Blog: Hyperdrive: Making Databases Feel Like They're Global http://cloudflare.com/developer-platform/products/hyperdrive About Cloudflare Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE: NET) is the leading connectivity cloud company. It empowers organizations to make their employees, applications and networks faster and more secure everywhere, while reducing complexity and cost. Cloudflare's connectivity cloud delivers the most full-featured, unified platform of cloud-native products and developer tools, so any organization can gain the control they need to work, develop, and accelerate their business. Powered by one of the world's largest and most interconnected networks, Cloudflare blocks billions of threats online for its customers every day. It is trusted by millions of organizations from the largest brands to entrepreneurs and small businesses to nonprofits, humanitarian groups, and governments across the globe. Learn more about Cloudflare's connectivity cloud at cloudflare.com/connectivity-cloud. Learn more about the latest Internet trends and insights at https://radar.cloudflare.com. Follow us: Blog X LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which statements involve substantial risks and uncertainties. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as "may," "will," "should," "expect," "explore," "plan," "anticipate," "could," "intend," "target," "project," "contemplate," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "potential," or "continue," or the negative of these words, or other similar terms or expressions that concern Cloudflare's expectations, strategy, plans, or intentions. However, not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Forward-looking statements expressed or implied in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the capabilities and effectiveness of Hyperdrive, Cloudflare Workersand Cloudflare's other products and technology, the benefits to Cloudflare's customers from using Hyperdrive, Cloudflare Workers and Cloudflare's other products and technology, the timing of when Hyperdriveor any of its related features will be generally available to all current and potential Cloudflare customers, Cloudflare's technological development, future operations, growth, initiatives, or strategies, and comments made by Cloudflare's CEO and others. Actual results could differ materially from those stated or implied in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including but not limited to, risks detailed in Cloudflare's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including Cloudflare's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on August 3, 2023, as well as other filings that Cloudflare may make from time to time with the SEC. The forward-looking statements made in this press release relate only to events as of the date on which the statements are made. Cloudflare undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements made in this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release or to reflect new information or the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law. Cloudflare may not actually achieve the plans, intentions, or expectations disclosed in Cloudflare's forward-looking statements, and you should not place undue reliance on Cloudflare's forward-looking statements. 2023 Cloudflare, Inc. All rights reserved. Cloudflare, the Cloudflare logo, and other Cloudflare marks are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Cloudflare, Inc. in the U.S. and other jurisdictions. All other marks and names referenced herein may be trademarks of their respective owners. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928489633/en/ Contacts: Cloudflare, Inc. Daniella Vallurupalli Vice President, Head of Global Communications press@cloudflare.com Recommended dose of 7 MBq established following completion of dose escalation; no dose-limiting toxicity observed Presentation on September 30, 2023 Oncoinvent AS, a clinical stage company advancing alpha emitter therapy across a variety of solid cancers, today announced the presentation of initial safety data from the ongoing Phase 1 clinical trial evaluating the recommended dose, safety and tolerability of Radspherin in patients with recurrent ovarian cancer at the 24th Congress of the European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO) being held at the Istanbul Congress Center in Istanbul, Turkiye from September 28 October 1, 2023. The presentation, titled "First Experience With Intra-Abdominal 224Radium-Labelled Microparticles (Radspherin) After Cytoreductive Surgery For Peritoneal Metastasis In Recurrent Epithelial Ovarian Cancer (Phase 1 Study)" will be presented on September 30, 2023 from 9:24 a.m. to 9:32 a.m. local time (5:24 a.m. ET). "Oncoinvent is proud to present safety data from our lead candidate, Radspherin at a major congress of the global gynecological cancer community. We believe this is an important first step as we advance the development of Radspherin as a new treatment for patients with advanced ovarian cancer," says CEO Anders Mansson. Details of the presentation are as follows: Session: MO3 Mini Oral Session Ovarian Cancer Presentation Title:First Experience With Intra-Abdominal 224Radium-Labelled Microparticles (Radspherin) After Cytoreductive Surgery For Peritoneal Metastasis In Recurrent Epithelial Ovarian Cancer (Phase 1 Study) Presentation Board Number: 850 Presenting Author: Els Van Nieuwenhuysen, MD Presentation Date and Time: September 30th, 2023, from 9:24 a.m. to 9:32 a.m. local time (5:24 a.m. ET) The ongoing Phase 1 study is designed to evaluate the recommended dose, safety and tolerability of Radspherin injected intraperitoneally following secondary cytoreductive surgery. The safety interim analysis after completion of the dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) period demonstrated that Radspherin was well tolerated. The highest dose of 7 MBq was recommended following the completion of dose escalation of 1-2-4-7 MBq, as no DLT was observed. About Oncoinvent Oncoinvent AS is a clinical stage company developing innovative radiopharmaceutical technology that delivers precise, alpha-emitting particles across solid cancers. By leveraging internal manufacturing and supply chain capabilities to enable a clinical supply of radioisotopes, the company is advancing a pipeline of novel products that use alpha particles, a higher Linear Energy Transfer (LET) form of radiation, that can potentially eradicate cancer cells. Oncoinvent's lead candidate, Radspherin, is designed for treatment of metastatic cancers in body cavities, and its versatility allows it to be deployed for the treatment of a variety of cancer indications. Radspherin is in two ongoing clinical studies to treat peritoneal carcinomatosis from both ovarian cancer and colorectal cancer. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928715223/en/ Contacts: For further information, please contact: Anders Mansson, Chief Executive Officer Email: mansson@oncoinvent.com Tore Kvam, Chief Financial Officer Email: kvam@oncoinvent.com IR enquiries: Courtney Turiano, Stern Investor Relations Email: Courtney.Turiano@sternir.com The Battery Show plans for continued growth with move to Detroit, October 2024. DETROIT, MI / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / The Battery Show, the leading North American event connecting the advanced battery and electric vehicle industries and co-located with Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Technology Expo, reports a record high event with nearly 19,000 attendees, marking a 25% year over year increase this September. The annual show is North America's largest and most comprehensive advanced battery technology event and the only trade show and conference exclusively dedicated to the drive train and power system in electric and hybrid vehicles. Attendees accessed over 800 exhibitors on the expo floor, with top companies in attendance including 6K Energy, Advanced Battery Concepts, DEWESoft LLC, Dow, Hongfa America Inc., Our Next Energy Inc., Parker Hannifin Corporation and Thermo Fisher Scientific. Delivering technical content focused on real world commercial solutions through four?distinctively themed conference tracks, over 200 speakers across 72 hours of education were curated to discuss key industry topics including newly added forecasts of the market supply chain, regulatory outlooks and product designs driving the battery and EV industries. Keynote presentations included industry leaders such as Albemarle, U.S. Department of Energy, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Monolith AI and PowerCo SE. "The tremendous growth of The Battery Show reflects the rapidly expanding state of the industry," says Shamara Ray, Group Event Director, Informa Markets Engineering. "The scientists, engineers, decision-makers and CEOs that gather each year are participating in key conversations around sourcing essential battery materials. As battery technology and electric vehicle manufacturing is reimagined, the dynamic visionaries at our event are capitalizing on the education available to champion this shift towards the EV landscape of the future." Battery demand for vehicles in the United States grew close to 80% in 2022 and the increasing global use of electric vehicles parallels the rapid need for the manufacturing of advanced battery products. As the industry continues to evolve, the use of in-person trade shows can positively affect customers looking to learn, sell and buy new technologies. The Battery Show is the meeting place for professionals looking to strike deals and anticipate future trajectories of the trade. The Battery Show and Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Technology Expo announces the move to Detroit next year Oct. 7-10, 2024, at Huntington Place. The expansion to downtown Detroit marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the show, providing the opportunity to showcase with increased visibility for emerging and global leading brands. Over 1,000 exhibitors are already confirmed to highlight the best and latest innovations as well as unveil anticipated technology in the heart of America's Motor City. For more information on next year's event, visit www.thebatteryshow.com . Exhibitors interested in participating in the 2024 expo are encouraged to contact clientservices.ime@informa.com as space is limited. About The Battery Show: The Battery Show is North America's largest and most comprehensive advanced battery technology event, Co-located with Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Technology Expo, the only trade show and conference exclusively dedicated to the drive train and power system in electric and hybrid vehicles. The Battery Show takes place annually in Novi, Michigan and brings together engineers, business leaders, top-industry companies, and innovative thinkers to discover ground-breaking products and create powerful solutions for the future. Discover and demo the latest products, technology, and solutions from more than 800 suppliers, connect with over 15,000 attendees and access 4 tracks of technical education. The Battery Show is organized by Informa Markets Engineering and is in collaboration with the annual Battery Show Europe in Stuttgart, Germany, and an all-new launch event this year: The Battery Show India, taking place at the India Expo Center, Greater Noida. Connect with The Battery Show and join the conversation on Facebook , LinkedIn and Twitter . About Informa Markets Engineering: Informa Markets' Engineering portfolio is the leading B2B event producer, publisher, and digital media business for the world's $3-trillion advanced, technology-based manufacturing industry. Our print and electronic products deliver trusted information to the engineering market and leverage our proprietary 1.3-million-name database to connect suppliers with buyers and purchase influencers. We produce more than 50 events and conferences in a dozen countries, connecting manufacturing professionals from around the globe. The Engineering portfolio is organized by Informa, a subsidiary of Informa plc (LON:INF), the world's leading exhibitions organizer that brings a diverse range of specialist markets to life, unlocking opportunities and helping them to thrive 365 days of the year. For more information, please visit www.informamarkets.com . Media Contact: Informa Markets Engineering PR PR.IME@Informa.com SOURCE: INFORMA MARKETS - ENGINEERING View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/788042/the-battery-show-wraps-record-event-with-nearly-19000-attendees TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Future Foods, the innovative platform founded by serial entrepreneur Dr. Darren Burke, is calling on farmers to join hands in a mission to transform the way we grade, produce, and distribute food. As the global food landscape undergoes a significant shift towards sustainability, food waste reduction, and environmentally friendly options, Future Foods offers farmers the opportunity to be at the forefront of this revolution. Dr Darren Burke Future Foods Lecture Dr Darren Burke of Future Foods Lecturing at McMaster University The Future Foods platform, recently featured in Vegconomist, is designed to empower farmers and disrupt the traditional supply chain, ultimately benefiting both producers and consumers. Dr. Darren Burke, the former CEO of Outcast Foods and a visionary serial entrepreneur renowned for rapidly growing sustainable technology and consumer brands, established Future Foods to address pressing issues in the agricultural and food industries. At its core, Future Foods is a platform that fosters collaboration between farmers and consumers, leveraging the power of fermentation to save food from going to waste and create innovative products that meet the evolving tastes and preferences of consumers. The platform allows farmers to harness the value of their surplus produce, transforming it into valuable fermented products that can be sold to local and national consumers via Future Foods distribution channels. Key benefits for farmers who register with Future Foods include: 1. Increased Revenue: By converting excess harvest into high-demand fermented products, farmers can tap into new revenue streams and maximize the value of their crops. 2. Waste Reduction: Future Foods helps reduce food waste by giving farmers a sustainable solution for surplus produce, contributing to a more environmentally friendly and efficient food system. 3. Direct Consumer Connection: Farmers can build direct relationships with consumers through the platform, providing valuable feedback and insights to meet consumer demands effectively. 4. Disruption of Traditional Supply Chains: Future Foods is changing the way food moves from farms to consumers' homes, cutting out unnecessary intermediaries and reducing the carbon footprint of food distribution. Dr. Darren Burke, the scientist and plant-based founder of Future Foods, commented, "We are on a mission to empower farmers and revolutionize the food industry. Future Foods is not just a platform; it's a movement towards a more sustainable and efficient food ecosystem. We invite farmers to register as fermenters and be part of this exciting journey." To register as a fermenter with Future Foods and embark on a journey to revolutionize the food industry, visit www.futurefoods.ca About Future Foods: Future Foods is a groundbreaking platform founded by Dr. Darren Burke, a serial entrepreneur with a passion for sustainability and innovation. The platform provides farmers with a turnkey solution to turn cosmetically rejected crops into high-value consumer products through the power of fermentation. Future Foods is dedicated to reducing food waste, increasing farmers' revenue, and disrupting traditional supply chains. Media Contact: Jessie Love Executive Assistant Future Foods Inc jessie@futurefoods.ca Contact Information Jessie Love Executive Assistant jessie@futurefoods.ca 888-902-1212 SOURCE: Future Foods Inc View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/787777/future-foods-invites-farmers-to-register-as-fermenters-now PercAssist, Inc., a medical device company developing innovative technology for a minimally invasive, extravascular platform to provide hemodynamic support for chronic heart failure patients, today announced the successful completion of its first patient in the EUREKA First-in-Human clinical study. The case was completed at the Na Homolce Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic, under the direction of principal investigator Professor Petr Neuzil, M.D., Ph.D., FESC, along with co-investigators Professor Ivo Skalsky, M.D., Ph.D., and Marek Janotka, M.D. Professor Neuzil and his clinical team successfully deployed the PercAssist Percutaneous Synchronized Cardiac Assist (PSCA) System, consisting of a balloon-based catheter and console, which inflates and deflates in synchrony with the patient's cardiac rhythm to provide hemodynamic support. The PSCA System was successfully deployed and provided hemodynamic stability immediately following implantation and throughout the implant period. "We are extremely excited to lead the First-in-Human clinical investigation of the PercAssist PSCA System for chronic heart failure patients requiring hemodynamic support," said Professor Neuzil. "Our first patient experienced an increase in ejection fraction of approximately 10% and an increase in cardiac output, sustained throughout the implant period without any adverse events. This extravascular ventricular assist technology has tremendous potential for providing hemodynamic support for heart failure patients without the need for anticoagulation therapy. Our team is excited to evaluate this innovative technology; it is a revolutionary advance for our field." The PercAssist System is a medical device that enables first-line interventional cardiologists and cardiac surgeons to provide an extravascular solution for chronic heart failure patients in need of hemodynamic support for an acute event, including cardiogenic shock or acute decompensated heart failure. While the clinical assessments are at an early stage, PercAssist plans to complete the First-in-Human study, followed by a multi-center Feasibility and Pivotal Trial under the U.S. Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) for market approval. "This successful First-in-Human case comes after three years of rigorous design and development activities, including design verification and validation testing, and numerous pre-clinical acute and chronic assessments," said Gerardo Noriega, president and CEO of PercAssist. "This milestone marks the beginning of our efforts to bring this potentially groundbreaking, novel technology to heart failure patients on a global scale." About PercAssist, Inc. PercAssist is a privately held medical device company in Santa Clara, California, founded in 2019 to develop the Percutaneous Synchronized Cardiac Assist (PSCA) System. The PSCA System is designed for extravascular placement to provide hemodynamic support for chronic heart failure patients without the need for anticoagulants. Proprietary PercAssist electrocardiogram (ECG) and implant technologies apply ventricular compression synchronized with the patient's natural heart rhythm to help improve patients' cardiac output. The company is initiating Series B financing to support continued clinical investigations of this breakthrough technology. The PSCA System is not for sale in the U.S. or internationally and is for clinical investigational use only. For more information, visit https://percassist-corp.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928411586/en/ Contacts: Amy Cook amy@amcpublicrelations.net STOCKHOLM and ATLANTA, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Cloud communications leader Sinch and one of North America's largest and most trusted membership organizations, AAA, are partnering to expand chat capabilities for individuals requesting roadside assistance. These changes will allow those stranded in remote areas to seamlessly connect with AAA for help. Yearly, millions of Americans are at risk of having need of road assistance while not being nearby a cellular network. On Sept. 12, AAA announced that users of the newly announced iPhone 15 lineup, as well as iPhone 14 users can now get access to Roadside Assistance via satellite utilizing AAA services. 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. Sinch, which has been an official Apple Messaging Service Provider since 2018, will serve as the software provider making it seamless for AAA agents to be in near-live contact with motorists and localize them using satellite connection. This new option to contact AAA will relieve millions of Americans a year from fear of needing to have road assistance while not being nearby a cellular network. "We are thrilled to further partner with AAA to leverage our industry-leading customer communication cloud to bring two-way conversational experiences to people precisely when they need it most," said Sinch CEO Laurinda Pang. "We are able to combine our long experience of multi-channel communications, our investments in Conversational AI and our Sinch Engage engagement suite to deliver this much-valued innovation to AAA and the many motorists they excel in servicing." Sinch and AAA have long worked together in initiatives to drive meaningful member experience through mobile messaging. For instance, Sinch has made the AAA's 800-HELP number text-enabled. When a member texts, the response from AAA includes a web link that allows the user to create a request for roadside assistance without having to speak to a AAA agent. "AAA's top priority is taking care of our members when they need us most," said Marshall Doney, president and CEO, AAA. "Sinch has been an excellent partner in furthering that mission and their innovation has allowed us to take our roadside assistance to the next level." Enabling roadside assistance via satellite builds on Sinch's previous experience in delivering robust communications services that meet the highest possible requirements. Last November, T-Mobile partnered with Sinch to launch another important first: NextGen 911 Real-Time Text (RTT). This first-ever NextGen 911 RTT technology is operating at an Emergency Communications Center (ECC) in Hood County, Texas, allowing T-Mobile customers to communicate with 911 through simultaneous conversational text and voice - text messages can be sent and read at the same time - without the need for teletype (TTY) technology. This is particularly critical for up to 48 million Americans who are Deaf or hard of hearing, as well as those who have speech-related disabilities or are non-native English speakers. RTT also gives public safety centers the ability to make better-informed dispatch decisions during a crisis and shave crucial time off a response. CONTACT: For further information, please contact: Sinch: Marcel Kay Public Relations Director Marcel.Kay@sinch.com Ola Elmeland Investor Relations Director Mobile: +46 721 43 34 59 E-mail: investors@sinch.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/sinch-and-aaa-partner-to-expand-chat-capabilities-for-individuals-needing-roadside-assistance-301941799.html Wealth & Finance International recognizes Mylo for its cutting-edge technology platform KANSAS CITY, MO / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Insurtech leader Mylo has been named 2023 Most Innovative InsurTech Company in the 7th annual FinTech Awards program hosted by the global publication Wealth & Finance International. Mylo was recognized for their cloud-based, turnkey technology platform that solves for the unique needs of channel partners, agents, and their small business and individual customers through insurance intelligence. This is the third consecutive FinTech Award for Mylo, who earned the title "Most Innovative InsurTech Company" in 2021 and 2022. The FinTech Awards showcase leaders that are constantly pushing boundaries and providing a more simplified financial management experience. "It's a tremendous honor to be named Most Innovative InsurTech Company in our third FinTech Award," said David Embry, Mylo CEO. "This reflects our commitment to delivering a simple and intuitive guided insurance shopping experience. Mylo will continue to innovate our capabilities and partnerships to help even more customers protect what matters." Mylo enables over 60 channel partners to give their customers instant access to a proprietary recommendation engine that identifies the best insurance solution from 100+ top-rated carriers. The Mind of Mylo goes beyond offering quotes based on price and instead recommends ideal coverage, quotes products with the best value, and offers solutions for future needs too. In the last year, Mylo has helped connect thousands of business owners and individuals with the protections they need for business, auto, home, group benefits, life and more. Mylo has also continued to refine its Amplifi? platform, a cloud-based SaaS solution that will equip other insurance agencies with the same technology Mylo agents have used successfully for seven years. Agencies who integrate Amplifi can leverage insurance intelligence built on 50+ years of expertise, expand their product range, optimize their operations, and drive success through high volume, low premium transactions. Mylo has earned additional industry accolades in 2023 including: the Best InsurTech Company in the FinTech Breakthrough Awards and InsurTech Company of the Year by Finance Monthly. About Mylo Mylo is amplifying insurance solutions to protect what matters. Through its patented Mind of Mylo recommendation engine, the insurtech leader connects individuals and business owners with top-rated insurance products from 100+ carriers, across business, auto, home, small group benefits, life and individual health. A growing ecosystem of 60+ channel partners and agencies embed Mylo's Amplifi? insurance intelligence platform. Mylo is headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, and backed by Group 1001, the global investor with a powerful commitment to technology-driven insurance transformation. Mylo has been honored by Fintech Global's InsurTech100, Benzinga's Global Fintech Awards, Forbes' America's Best Startup Employers and more. For more information, go to www.ChooseMylo.com. About Wealth & Finance International Wealth & Finance International is dedicated to providing fund managers and institutional and private investors around the world with the latest industry news across both traditional and alternative investment sectors. Distributed each month to more than 130,000 high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals, fund managers, institutional investors and professional services firms, Wealth & Finance International has rapidly become the go-to resource for those looking to make the right decisions when it comes to securing and growing their wealth. For more information, visit wealthandfinance-news.com. ### Mylo Contact Information Maddie Hirsch Caliber Corporate Advisers mylo@calibercorporateadvisers.com SOURCE: Mylo View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/787803/digital-agency-mylo-named-most-innovative-insurtech-company-in-third-consecutive-fintech-award As published in Qualcomm's 2022 Corporate Responsibility Report NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Women's economic empowerment is fundamental to gender equality, poverty eradication and inclusive economic growth. Women face barriers to start and grow businesses, including lack of confidence and access to training, networks and knowledge. We have been collaborating with the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women (CBFW) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to implement the Women Entrepreneurs Amplifying Ventures and Economies (WEAVE) program in Vietnam and Indonesia. WEAVE aims to increase the availability of flexible training and services and develop the business skills and confidence needed for women to grow successful MSMEs through digital technology. We supported the development of HerVenture, a free award-winning mobile learning app, engaging more than 12,000 women entrepreneurs. The app is designed to provide women entrepreneurs of small and growing businesses with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to successfully start and grow their enterprises by offering essential business training and support "on the go." Many HerVenture users then progressed to the Road to Growth program, a fully online learning program to develop business management and investment readiness skills. Following Road to Growth, women entrepreneurs participated in the CBFW's global Mentoring Women in Business program, which pairs them with dedicated mentors who provide one-to-one support for six months. The HerVenture app was first piloted in 2018 in Vietnam and has since been rolled out throughout the world. HerVenture is highly scalable, can be adapted to any geography or language and has reached more than 65,000 women globally. It is currently available for free on iOS and Android in Vietnam, Indonesia, Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria and Guyana, with plans to expand further. Learn more in Qualcomm's 2022 Corporate Responsibility Report View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Qualcomm on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Qualcomm Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/qualcomm Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Qualcomm View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/788337/how-qualcomm-improves-economic-outlooks-for-women-entrepreneurs A Watford City man will spend almost five years in prison for striking and killing a 6-year-old boy with his vehicle. Julian Montoya entered guilty pleas to charges of negligent homicide and duty in accident involving injury or death during a Monday court hearing as part of a plea agreement with prosecutors. Northwest District Judge Robin Schmidt sentenced Montoya to 10 years, suspending half the sentence. He's given credit for 168 days already spent in jail. Upon his release Montoya will spend three years under supervised probation. Had Montoya been convicted at trial, he could have faced a maximum prison term of 15 years. Neither Montoya's attorney, Philip Becher, nor McKenzie County State's Attorney Ty Skarda immediately responded to a Tribune request for comment. The charges came after Montoya, driving a pickup, was accused of striking the child who was reportedly adjusting a bicycle seat in the parking lot of a Watford City apartment complex on April 8. A witness told investigators Montoya was going fast as he rounded a corner in the parking lot and made no attempt to stop, according to a Highway Patrol affidavit. Black tire marks after the turn "appear to be skid marks consistent with rear tires spinning due to rapid acceleration," the document states. Following the incident, Montoya exited the pickup, approached the boy then went back to his vehicle in an apparent attempt to leave, according to the affidavit. A witness removed the keys from Montoya's truck, the document states. The child victim's identity was not made public by the Highway Patrol under state law, but a GoFundMe campaign identified the boy as Ian Garcia. Organizers said Garcia and his family had recently arrived in the U.S. from Guatemala. Digital Documentary Series Highlights Distribution Companies Operating as a 'Force for Good' MARSHFIELD, WI / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Nelson-Jameson, a leading distributor in the food processing industry, is featured as one of eight companies highlighted in the third season of We Supply America's film series. The series was founded and executive produced by Dirk Beveridge, an industry consultant with more than 36 years of experience in supply chain distribution. The third We Supply America season focuses on organizations across the U.S. with "people-first" cultures and operating principles that create an impetus for positive change, both internally within the company and externally with the communities it serves. 'We Supply America' Visits Nelson-Jameson Nelson-Jameson is being featured in documentary film series 'We Supply America' about leading distributors across the country. "It was an honor for Nelson-Jameson to be recognized for its engaged culture and its role as a 'force for good,'" says Mike Rindy, President of Nelson-Jameson. "We take this responsibility seriously and aren't content to rest on our laurels. We're continuously looking for ways we can do more to lead by example and deliver the exceptional." We Supply America began in response to unprecedented challenges that distribution and supply chain companies faced during the pandemic. As a long-time distribution veteran, Beveridge wanted to support the industry and envisioned a broadcast-quality series highlighting individual companies with people-first values and demonstrable contributions to creating strong communities. He began traveling across the U.S., interviewing distribution leaders and producing segments on their company operations. The series is viewable on the We Supply America site. "I'm passionate about advancing the growth, relevance, and transformation of the distribution industry, one story at a time," says Dirk Beveridge, founder and Executive Producer of We Supply America. "Distribution is the backbone of our country, and Nelson-Jameson is a prime example of how a company can thrive while leading and operating with humanity." Nelson-Jameson defines its culture based on honesty, integrity, and kindness, and a commitment to operating in an ethical manner with respect for people, the community, and the environment. Through the Nelson-Jameson Foundation, the family-owned company supports philanthropic organizations that share its Golden Rule values and provides grants toward charitable programs related to the food and dairy industries or local communities. Nelson-Jameson's We Supply America episode premieres live on LinkedIn on Oct. 5 at 3 p.m. CT using this link. Immediately after the premiere, the film will be available for on-demand viewing at https://wesupplyamerica.net/featured-films/. About Nelson-Jameson??? Nelson-Jameson is a fourth-generation, family-owned distributor to the dairy industry. From the company's roots in dairy production supplies, it has expanded to offer a broad range of food processing products and services that help food and beverage organizations operate efficiently with the highest quality, safety, and compliance standards. The company represents more than 850 vendors, distributes more than 60,000 curated products, and employs more than 260 people nationwide. The dairy industry leader also operates NEXT Logistics, a transportation arm that provides delivery services from its Wisconsin, California, Idaho, Pennsylvania, and Texas strategic distribution centers. For more than 75 years, Nelson-Jameson has supported food, beverage and dairy processors with innovative products and a comprehensive set of solutions that keep pace with changing consumer tastes, manufacturing processes, and distribution channels. The company values delivering the exceptional for its customers by leading with the guiding principles of kindness and mutual respect. Nelson-Jameson is a supplier of choice for customers in all 50 states and international markets.? For more information, please visit https://nelsonjameson.com. Contact Information Karolyn Raphael PR for Nelson-Jameson karolyn@wingermarketing.com 312-494-0422 SOURCE: Nelson-Jameson View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/788181/nelson-jameson-featured-in-season-three-of-we-supply-america-leading-change-in-distributions-future George town, Cayman Islands--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - Metrics Ventures is pleased to introduce its data and fundamental-driven digital asset secondary liquid compliance fund. Demonstrating its unwavering commitment to value and long-term investment principles, Metrics Ventures remains steadfast in its dedication to fundamental analysis. Its primary mission is to identify high-quality assets and undervalued projects that align with industry trends, possess sustainable competitive advantages, and exhibit strong profitability potential. The company is resolutely focused on generating outstanding long-term returns for its stakeholders. With a successful initial round of funding, Metrics Ventures currently manages $30 million and aspires to emerge as a prominent player within the cryptocurrency fund space, characterized by high growth, substantial yields, and a keen emphasis on alpha generation. As a testament to its commitment to excellence, Metrics Ventures has obtained a mutual fund license in the Cayman Islands, a jurisdiction renowned for its robust regulatory framework. This license, issued by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA), is a mark of trust and compliance. CIMA, founded in 1999, oversees a wide range of financial services, including cryptocurrency assets, and its regulatory reputation is well-respected among global clients. Metrics Ventures is recognized for its ability to provide a wide range of resources to the projects it invests in. The team, consisting of experienced professionals in the crypto industry, brings extensive expertise in primary market investments and incubation. They are also well-prepared to offer comprehensive support, including marketing resources, development strategies, and tokenomics consulting. Additionally, Metrics Ventures can connect projects with resources from the entire industry ecosystem to help them integrate more effectively and provide industry-specific project research reports, all while actively contributing to the industry's growth. "Our investment philosophy is built on continuous learning, expanding industry coverage, and data-driven insights," said Ruby, Managing Partner at Metrics Ventures." At Metrics Ventures, we place a premium on fundamental analysis and a steadfast commitment to long-termism. Our expertise lies in the realm of data analysis and research, and we are dedicated to mastering and developing a diverse range of data analysis tools. We take pride in their ability to navigate both short-term tactical research and make sound long-term value judgments, all while remaining at the forefront of anticipated long-term trends." Metrics Ventures' research methodology combines industry analysis with project interviews, providing a comprehensive view of the crypto landscape. The fund specializes in capitalizing on market cycle changes, identifying undervalued assets during cycle reversals, and empowering them to thrive in the evolving trends of the next cycle. Metrics Ventures is excited to share its journey and insights with the global cryptocurrency community. The fund welcomes inquiries from investors, partners, and industry enthusiasts who are interested in learning more about its approach to cryptocurrency investment and its commitment to building a more robust and transparent digital asset ecosystem. About Metrics Ventures Metrics Ventures, also known as MVC, is a data and research-driven secondary market liquidity fund led by a team of experienced crypto professionals. The team boasts expertise in both primary market incubation and secondary market trading, as well as an active role in industry development through in-depth on-chain/off-chain data analysis. Partnered with influential figures from the crypto veteran community, MVC can provide long-term empowerment capabilities and support for the project, such as media and KOL resources, ecological collaboration resources, project strategy, and economic model consulting capabilities. Join the conversation about crypto investments and markets by reaching out to Metrics Ventures: Email: ops@metrics.ventures Website: https://www.metrics.ventures/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MetricsVentures Notion: https://metricsventures.notion.site/Metrics-Ventures-Crypto-Liquid-Fund-475803b4407946b1ae6e0eeaa8708fa2?pvs=4 For media inquiries and further information, please contact: Ruby N ops@metrics.ventures To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/182195 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Odgers Berndtson today announced that seasoned executive search leader Jeff Hauswirth has joined the firm and will be working within the North American Real Estate and Board & CEO Practices. Jeff Hauswirth Headshot Jeff Hauswirth Headshot "Over the last two years, we have charted an aggressive growth path as part of our commitment to provide our clients with the best leadership expertise in the industry. Jeff joining the firm is another strategic step in that journey," said Carl Lovas, Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, Odgers Berndtson Canada. "At a time when the real estate industry is shifting to be more global and dynamic, and Board governance has become increasingly complex, I'm confident that Jeff's deep knowledge and relationships across North America will be an advantage for our clients." "We are incredibly excited for this opportunity to expand Odgers Berndtson's presence and expertise for both our Real Estate and Board & CEO practices across North America," added Kennon Kincaid, Chief Executive Officer, Odgers Berndtson US. "His decades of global experience in C-suite recruitment ensures Odgers Berndtson's clients are well-supported as Real Estate becomes a global and increasingly complex venture. Although Jeff will be based in Toronto, we look forward to his close partnership with our team in the U.S." "It's a pleasure to be joining a firm with the global scale and breadth of expertise that Odgers Berndtson delivers," said Hauswirth. "Today's executive search is more than identifying and recruiting exceptional talent. It's about understanding a client's business inside and out and having the skill and experience to present the right solution to help them achieve their strategic imperatives. Working at Odgers Berndtson provides the flexibility to respond to my clients' full spectrum of leadership needs, including succession planning and Board and CEO strategic alignment." Prior to joining Odgers Berndtson, Jeff held the position of Vice Chairman and Head of North America at a global executive search firm focused on the real estate industry. Jeff also spent 25 years at an international executive search firm where he held various leadership roles including leading the Canadian and Asian Pacific businesses, serving three terms on the global Board of Directors, and establishing the firm's first office in India. Throughout his career, Jeff has completed a broad range of senior-level recruitment and advisory assignments, including over 125 CEO searches globally. About Odgers Berndtson Odgers Berndtson delivers executive search and human capital consultancy to businesses and organizations of all sizes and maturity. We work across 50 sectors, whether commercial, public, or not-for-profit and draw on the experience of partners and their teams in 33 countries. odgersberndtson.com ## Contact Information Stacy Buchanan CMO stacy.buchanan@odgersberndtson.com 804-614-5386 SOURCE: Odgers Berndtson View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/788360/odgers-berndtson-announces-the-further-expansion-of-their-north-american-real-estate-and-board-ceo-practices-with-the-appointment-of-jeff-hauswirth MORGAN HILL, CA / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / EMQ, developer of the world's leading open-source MQTT messaging platform, EMQX, is thrilled to unveil EMQX Enterprise 5.2, a feature-packed release designed to streamline IoT connectivity and data management. This release represents a major milestone, introducing a host of significant enhancements. Leading the way is the groundbreaking Flow Designer, an intuitive visual tool that empowers enterprise users to effortlessly create, test, and deploy data integrations through simple drag-and-drop actions. Furthermore, we've expanded our data integration capabilities to support Amazon Kinesis and Azure Event Hubs, simplifying the integration of IoT device data with cloud services. Beyond these highlights, this version includes a multitude of other enhancements and bug fixes, resulting in a substantial boost to overall performance and stability. Flow Designer: Simplified IoT Data Flow With EMQX Enterprise 5.2, we introduce Flow Designer, a powerful tool that simplifies the way IoT data is integrated and managed. This user-friendly tool eases the design of rules and data bridges through an intuitive drag-and-drop interface, facilitating real-time message and event processing while seamlessly integrating with over 40 external data systems within minutes. Users can effortlessly manage data integration processes and monitor processing node statuses through a unified view. The Flow Designer leverages EMQX's robust data processing capabilities and outstanding performance, employing SQL-based programming and data bridging in the underlying layer. Users have the flexibility to seamlessly switch between the UI and SQL editors, choosing between familiar SQL editing or the faster, more intuitive UI editing style. This enhancement empowers users to innovate more rapidly, eliminating the need to delve into EMQX's SQL syntax and facilitating the application of EMQX's data processing capabilities for business growth. Rule Engine Empowers Sparkplug B Support EMQX Enterprise 5.2 now includes robust support for Sparkplug B Message Codecs in our Rule Engine. This enhancement ensures seamless compatibility with Sparkplug-enabled devices and systems, making it easier than ever to deploy and manage IoT solutions that adhere to industry standards. This release introduces Sparkplug B message encode/decode functions directly into the rule engine SQL. Users can effortlessly convert Sparkplug B messages to JSON format using sparkplug encode and sparkplug decode functions within EMQX. The decoded JSON data can then undergo intricate processing via Rule Engine functions and seamlessly integrate with external data bridges, fostering robust business integration. This enhancement streamlines device interoperability in industrial IoT, enhances development efficiency, and enables flexible, scalable IoT applications. Seamless Integration with OpenTelemetry We understand the importance of comprehensive monitoring and observability in IoT environments. EMQX Enterprise 5.2 integrates seamlessly with OpenTelemetry, providing real-time insights into the performance and health of IoT infrastructure. With the OpenTelemetry Indicator, users can proactively identify and address potential issues. This integration bolsters EMQX's monitoring capabilities by offering built-in support for OpenTelemetry metrics. It enhances the observation, analysis, and diagnosis of EMQX cluster performance. Additionally, future releases will see support for OpenTelemetry traces and logs, enabling end-to-end distributed diagnosis capabilities and comprehensive monitoring of system operation status. This advancement empowers users to swiftly identify and address anomalies, enriching EMQX's monitoring data. Seamless Integration with Cloud Services Additionally, EMQX Enterprise 5.2 expands its integration capabilities with prominent platforms, including: Integration with Amazon Kinesis : Effortlessly stream IoT data to Amazon Kinesis for advanced analytics and stream processing for high-performance, data-driven applications on AWS. This integration allows for real-time analytics and complex stream processing, empowering EMQX users to create high-performance, data-driven applications on AWS. : Effortlessly stream IoT data to Amazon Kinesis for advanced analytics and stream processing for high-performance, data-driven applications on AWS. This integration allows for real-time analytics and complex stream processing, empowering EMQX users to create high-performance, data-driven applications on AWS. Integration with Azure Event Hubs : EMQX's integration with Azure Event Hubs unlocks the potential of Azure's fully managed real-time streaming data processing service, designed for simplicity, reliability, and scalability. With the capacity to handle millions of streaming events per second and adapt to usage demands, it enables agile data pipelines and provides robust security and privacy safeguards. : EMQX's integration with Azure Event Hubs unlocks the potential of Azure's fully managed real-time streaming data processing service, designed for simplicity, reliability, and scalability. With the capacity to handle millions of streaming events per second and adapt to usage demands, it enables agile data pipelines and provides robust security and privacy safeguards. Integration with Google Cloud Pub/Sub: EMQX offers seamless integration with Google Cloud Pub/Sub, an asynchronous messaging service known for its high reliability and scalability. This integration enables rapid connectivity through EMQX's Rule Engine, expediting the development of IoT applications on the Google Cloud Platform (GCP). Moreover, EMQX's integration with HStream unlocks its robust streaming platform for IoT data processing, analysis, consumption, and replay. Simultaneously, the integration with GreptimeDB, a cloud-native time-series database, ensures efficient long-term storage and querying capabilities for extensive IoT datasets, empowering data-driven decision-making. EMQX Enterprise 5.2 represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to empower organizations with reliable, scalable, and secure IoT connectivity. To explore the possibilities and experience the future of IoT data management with EMQX Enterprise 5.2, please visit www.emqx.com. About EMQ EMQ is the world's leading software provider of open-source IoT data infrastructure. Its core product, EMQX, the world's most scalable and reliable open-source MQTT messaging platform, supports 100MM concurrent IoT device connections per cluster while maintaining 1M messages per second throughput and sub-millisecond latency. It boasts 20K+ enterprise users, connecting 100MM+ IoT devices, and is trusted by 400+ customers in mission-critical IoT scenarios, including well-known brands like HPE, VMware, Verifone, SAIC Volkswagen and Ericsson. EMQ's global R&D center is located in Stockholm, Sweden. It has 10+ offices throughout the Americas, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region. 305 Vineyard Town Center, Morgan Hill, CA, USA 95037 www.emqx.com | media@emqx.io SOURCE: EMQ Technologies Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/788357/emqx-enterprise-52-features-unveiled-streamlining-iot-data-flow HDI Global Specialty SE will join Coalition's Canadian Cyber and Tech E&O Panel Beginning in 2024 Coalition, the world's first Active Insurance provider designed to prevent digital risk before it strikes, today announced a new long-term partnership with HDI Global Specialty SE, the specialty insurance carrier of HDI Global SE, an A.M. Best A+ rated insurer with over 120 years of experience in offering international insurance. Beginning in 2024, HDI Global Specialty will join Coalition's Cyber and Technology E&O panel in Canada to provide insurance capacity. The insurer will assume a quota share on all cyber insurance products Coalition provides in Canada, incepting on or after January 1, 2024. "HDI Global has headquarters in Germany and foreign branches, subsidiaries, and affiliates in more than 175 countries, making them an excellent global partner as Coalition continues to expand our offerings worldwide," commented Shawn Ram, Coalition's Head of Insurance. "HDI is a well-established global player, and we are thrilled to have them as a partner as we continue to scale our mission to democratize cyber coverage and protect the unprotected." HDI Global Specialty joins a well-respected group of global (re)insurers that have signed capacity deals with Coalition, including Allianz, Arch, Ascot, Fortegra, and Vantage. Coalition also announced the formation of a dedicated $300M reinsurer, Ferian Re, in partnership with BDT Capital Partners. "This new partnership with Coalition marks our first significant step into the cyber market in Canada," said Derek Spafford, Managing Director Chief Agent of HDI Global Specialty SE Canada. "We are excited to join forces with such an established partner that has, in only a few years, already become a leader in the Canadian cyber insurance market." "Cyber risk is pervasive in modern society. With our cyber team, we seek out partners who we really feel are driving the industry forward and support organizations in their cyber improvement journey," added Meike Rollecke, Head of Cyber Financial Lines Underwriting at HDI Global. "We are therefore thrilled to take this first step in our global partnership with Coalition." To learn more about HDI Global Specialty's offerings in Canada, visit: www.hdi.global/en-ca/about-us/locations-contacts/america/canada/contacts-specialty/. To learn more about Coalition's offerings in Canada, visit: www.coalitioninc.com/en-ca. About Coalition Coalition is the world's first Active Insurance provider designed to help prevent digital risk before it strikes. By combining comprehensive insurance coverage and cybersecurity tools, Coalition helps businesses manage and mitigate digital risks. Coalition offers its Active Insurance products in the U.S., U.K., and Canada through relationships with leading global insurers, as well as cyber capacity through its own carrier, Coalition Insurance Company. Coalition's Active Risk Platform provides automated security alerts, threat intelligence, expert guidance, and cybersecurity tools to help businesses worldwide remain resilient against cyber attacks. Headquartered in San Francisco, Coalition is a distributed company with a global workforce that collaborates digitally and in office hubs. Insurance products are offered by Coalition Insurance Solutions Inc. ("CIS"), a licensed insurance producer and surplus lines broker with its principal place of business in San Francisco, CA (Cal. license #0L76155), acting on behalf of a number of unaffiliated insurance companies and available on an admitted basis through Coalition Insurance Company ("CIC") a licensed insurance underwriter (NAIC #29530). Insurance products offered through CIS and CIC may not be available in all states. CIS may receive compensation from an insurer or other intermediary in connection with the sale of insurance. All decisions regarding any insurance products referenced herein, including approval for coverage, premium, commission, and fees, will be made solely by the insurer underwriting the insurance under the insurer's then-current criteria. All insurance products are governed by the terms, conditions, limitations, and exclusions set forth in the applicable insurance policy. Please see a copy of your policy for the full terms, conditions, and exclusions. Copyright 2023. All rights reserved. Coalition and the Coalition logo are trademarks of Coalition, Inc. or its affiliates. About HDI Global SE (HDI) As an industrial lines insurer, HDI Global SE (HDI) meets the needs of SMEs, industrial companies and corporate customers with insurance solutions that are specifically tailored to their requirements. In addition to HDI's prominent position in the German and broader European market, the company has access to its own worldwide HDI Global Network covering more than 175 countries through its own HDI foreign branch offices, subsidiaries, affiliated companies, and network partners. Pioneering value-driven insurance solutions globally, HDI Global SE leads roughly 5,000 International Programmes and offers its multinational customers compliant coverage worldwide. HDI Global SE is a company in the Industrial Lines Division of the Talanx Group and has been a leading insurer for several decades. Approximately 4,500 employees in this division generated insurance revenue (gross) of approx. EUR 8.2 billion in the year 2022 (according to IFRS 17). The rating agency Standard Poor's has given the Talanx Primary Group a financial strength rating of A+/stable (strong). Talanx AG is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange in the MDAX. About HDI Global Specialty HDI Global Specialty SE is a specialty lines insurer. It is owned by HDI Global SE, part of the Talanx Group. HDI Global Specialty's focus is on writing agency and specialty insurance business with operations in 9 locations and access to a global network of more than 175 countries through the HDI Global Network. HDI Global Specialty also enjoys the same financial strength as HDI Global SE. This news release may include forward-looking statements which are based on certain assumptions, expectations and opinions of the management of Talanx AG and HDI Global SE. These statements are, therefore, subject to certain known or unknown risks and uncertainties. A variety of factors, many of which are beyond Talanx AG's and HDI Global SE's control, affect our business activities, business strategy, results, performance and achievements. Should one or more of these factors or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results, performance or achievements of Talanx AG and HDI Global SE may vary materially from those expressed or implied in the relevant forward-looking statement. Talanx AG and HDI Global SE do not guarantee that the assumptions underlying such forward-looking statements are free from errors, nor do Talanx AG and HDI Global SE accept any responsibility for the actual occurrence of the forecasted developments. Talanx AG and HDI Global SE neither intend, nor assume any obligation, to update or revise these forward-looking statements in light of developments which differ from those anticipated. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928578044/en/ Contacts: Coalition Contact Marisa Graves press@coalitioninc.com HDI Global Specialty Canada Contact Kelly Callachan kelly.callachan@hdi-specialty.com HDI Global SE Contact Dr. Frederic Strohm Frederic.strohm@hdi.global.com Validation performed at two locations the Takasago Hydrogen Park (Japan) and the Herya Industrial Park (Norway) First commercial operation of the 5.5 MW electrolyzer slated for the Advanced Clean Energy Storage Project in Delta, Utah Demonstrates Mitsubishi Power's unique approach to ensuring its technology is fully tested in real-world conditions before entering commercial operation Underscoring its commitment to advancing hydrogen technology in the energy industry, Mitsubishi Power has successfully completed the permanent installation of its large-scale electrolyzer at the company's state-of-the-art Takasago Hydrogen Park in Japan. The unit now operates at full load and in real-world conditions as the long-term validation begins. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928138483/en/ Takasago Hydrogen Park: Takasago Hydrogen Park is divided into sections according to three hydrogen-related functions: hydrogen production, storage, and utilization. (Image credit: Mitsubishi Power) The large-scale 5.5 MW single stack pressurized alkaline electrolyzer is being validated in two stages. First, a single unit was installed and tested at the Herya Industrial Park in Norway; extensive operational parameters were tested and the short-term validation culminated in a 96-hour baseload run of safe and reliable operation. From there the technology is now undergoing long-term validation at a permanent installation in the Takasago Hydrogen Park. Takasago Hydrogen Park is the world's first center dedicated to the validation of hydrogen-related technologies. It is designed for the long-term operation of these electrolyzers at one location and under the same conditions as they would operate commercially. Full-scale validation of a technology is a method championed by Mitsubishi Power for more than 30 years and aims to minimize technology risk for customers. The objectives include performance, operations, start-ups, shutdowns, gas quality, safety, and digital control integration. While this disciplined validation process extends the overall product development schedule, Mitsubishi Power's philosophy is to invest time to achieve high reliability which translates to fewer troubleshooting issues once the product is commercial, and it helps reduce unplanned downtime for the owner saving costs, minimizing forced outages, and increasing unit availability. This electrolyzer design will be used in the production of green hydrogen at North America's largest hydrogen energy project under construction, the Advanced Clean Energy Storage (ACES Delta) project in Delta, Utah, a joint venture between Chevron and Mitsubishi Power Americas, with equipment arriving on-site starting in fall 2023. ACES Delta is a utility-scale energy project that will produce, store, and deliver green hydrogen. Scheduled to begin operations in 2025, the ACES Delta project will use renewable energy-powered electrolyzers to split water into oxygen and hydrogen. The green hydrogen produced using electrolysis will be stored in two massive salt caverns, each the size of the Empire State Building, and each capable of storing 150-gigawatt hours (GWh) of energy for dispatch back to the grid when it is needed. Kent Rockaway, Vice President, Hydrogen Production, Mitsubishi Power Americas, said, "These validation units are significant milestones for our electrolyzer technology and a testament to how we approach the development of our products for our customers. The electrolyzers will soon arrive at the ACES Delta project, a benchmark project that will help decarbonize the western U.S., and we are excited to watch its progress." Additional Press Releases: Mitsubishi Power Signs Purchase Contract with HydrogenPro for Large Scale Electrolyzer System US DOE Closes $504.4 Million Loan to Advanced Clean Energy Storage Project for Hydrogen Production and Storage Takasago Hydrogen Park, the World's First Integrated Validation Facility for Technologies from Hydrogen Production to Power Generation, Enters Full-Scale Operation -- Electrolysis Hydrogen Production Begins About Mitsubishi Power Americas, Inc. Mitsubishi Power Americas, Inc. (Mitsubishi Power) headquartered in Lake Mary, Florida, employs more than 2,700 power generation, energy storage, and digital solutions experts and professionals. Our employees are focused on empowering customers to affordably and reliably combat climate change while also advancing human prosperity throughout North, Central, and South America. Mitsubishi Power's power generation solutions include gas, steam, and aero-derivative turbines; power trains and power islands; geothermal systems; PV solar project development; environmental controls; and services. Energy storage solutions include green hydrogen, battery energy storage systems, and services. Mitsubishi Power also offers intelligent solutions that use artificial intelligence to enable autonomous operation of power plants. Mitsubishi Power is a power solutions brand of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI). Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, MHI is one of the world's leading heavy machinery manufacturers with engineering and manufacturing businesses spanning energy, infrastructure, transport, aerospace, and defense. For more information, visit the Mitsubishi Power Americas website and follow us on LinkedIn. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928138483/en/ Contacts: Communications Contacts Christa Reichhardt Mitsubishi Power Americas +1 407-484-5599 Christa.Reichhardt@amermhi.com The car battery chargers market is undergoing a detailed analysis, with a distinction between manual charging and automatic charging methods. Car battery chargers are increasingly moving towards automation, and FMI provides in-depth insights into this trend and its implications. NEWARK, Del., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- According to forecasts, the car battery chargers market is expected to be US$ 22.09 billion in 2023 and US$ 43.47 billion by 2033. Download PDF Sample Report to Get an Overview of the Market: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-1844 Smart charging for electric vehicles to optimize energy usage based on energy cost, grid constraints, and renewable energy availability will assist battery charger market expansion. Energy technology advances due to the Internet of Things (IoT) being used to gather much data from distributed nodes. The smart farm in the agricultural sector collects information from several nodes dispersed around the farmed field on weather, soil moisture content, evaporation, and other factors. These nodes run on batteries and rely on intelligent solar-powered battery charging devices. The market for battery chargers is anticipated to develop due to the adoption of smart charging for electric vehicles to optimize energy use depending on energy pricing, grid constraints, and the availability of renewable energy. Due to internal enthalpy changes, electrochemical polarization, and resistive heating, the batteries' reduced performance is impeding the market's growth. Nikhil Kaitwade (Associate Vice President at Future Market Insights, Inc.) emphasizes that car battery chargers are indispensable tools in the automotive industry. These devices play a crucial role in maintaining and rejuvenating vehicle batteries, ensuring reliable performance, and reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns. Key Takeaways from the Car Battery Chargers Market Study By 2033, the car battery chargers market in the United Kingdom will likely expand, with a CAGR of 7.2%. In 2023, the United States is expected to develop the car battery chargers business with a share of 14.7%. The car battery chargers market grew considerably to US$ 20.73 billion in 2022. The car battery chargers sector expanded at a CAGR of 6.6% from 2018 to 2022. By 2033, China's car battery chargers market is projected to develop with a CAGR of 7.9%. By 2033, India's car battery chargers industry is projected to expand with a CAGR of 7.4%. Japan's car battery chargers industry will likely grow significantly, with a 7.1% share in 2023. Australia's car battery chargers are expected to develop with a share of 1.2 in 2023. Germany's car battery chargers business is expected to grow, with a share of 5.5% in 2023. In 2023, based on the charging type, the automatic chargers segment is expected to dominate the market, with a share of 31.2%. In 2023, a car battery charger segment is expected to dominate the market, with a share of 35.4%, based on product type. Country-wise Insights: Car Battery Charges Market 2023: Country Market Share (2023) United States 14.70 % Germany 5.50 % Japan 7.10 % Australia 1.20 % To be a leader or player, take calculated risks. To strengthen your strategies, buy the report. https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/checkout/1844 Strategies for Winning Against Competitors in the Manufacture of Car Battery Chargers Models for vehicles such as cars, motorcycles, ATVs, delivery trucks, and snowmobiles are among the new car battery chargers. Electric vehicles are expected to be utilized regularly for commercial and private transportation in this new era of mobility. Also, technical cooperation has significantly impacted the entire car battery charger sector expansion. Recent Development: A bi-directional onboard battery charger from Bel Power Solutions with an efficiency of over 94% and the ability to connect up to four charging units in parallel was made available in January 2021. According to Bel Power, this charger charges EV batteries directly from the grid or a charging station. At CES 2023, the premier technology event in the world, ABB E-mobility unveiled its ground-breaking Terra Home charging system. By the middle of 2023, it should be available for purchase. Terra Home's distinctive design enables consumers to maximize their use of renewable energy, thus lowering their carbon footprint. More Insights into the Global Car Battery Chargers Market Report In its new report, Future Market Insights (FMI) offers an unbiased analysis of the global car battery charges industry, analyzing historical demand from 2018 to 2022 and forecast statistics for 2023 to 2033. The study reveals growth projections for the global car battery chargers industry based on charging type (manual and automatic charging), charger type (Smart/Intelligent Charger, Float Charger, Trickle Charger), by portability (plugin and portable charger), by battery capacity (Up to 12V, 12V-48V, Above 48V), product type (Car Battery Charger, Electric Car Battery Charger), by applications (garage, personal use), and region. Get the detailed research methodology of the report, access it here! About the Author: Nikhil Kaitwade (Associate Vice President at Future Market Insights, Inc.) has over a decade of experience in market research and business consulting. He has successfully delivered 1500+ client assignments, predominantly in Automotive, Chemicals, Industrial Equipment, Oil and gas, and Service industries. His core competency circles around developing research methodology, creating a unique analysis framework, statistical data models for pricing analysis, competition mapping, and market feasibility analysis. His expertise also extends wide and beyond analysis, advising clients on identifying growth potential in established and niche market segments, investment/divestment decisions, and market entry decision-making. Nikhil holds an MBA degree in Marketing and IT and a Graduate in Mechanical Engineering. Nikhil has authored several publications and quoted in journals like EMS Now, EPR Magazine, and EE Times. Explore FMI's Extensive Coverage in Automotive Domain: The global automotive turbocharger market size, as reported by Future Market Insights (FMI), reached US$ 12.5 billion in 2018. Demand for automotive turbochargers registered an 8.7% year-on-year growth in 2022, indicating that it would reach US$ 16.6 billion in 2023. size, as reported by Future Market Insights (FMI), reached US$ 12.5 billion in 2018. Demand for automotive turbochargers registered an 8.7% year-on-year growth in 2022, indicating that it would reach US$ 16.6 billion in 2023. The Gasoline Turbochargers Market is anticipated to be worth US$ 12.05 billion in terms of revenue. The market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 7.6% to reach a market size of US$ 25.07 billion by 2032. is anticipated to be worth US$ billion in terms of revenue. The market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 7.6% to reach a market size of US$ billion by 2032. EV chargers market is projected to register an impressive CAGR of 26.6%. The market valuation of EV chargers is anticipated to grow from US$ 6,520.9 million in 2023 to about US$ 68,967.2 million by 2033. is projected to register an impressive CAGR of 26.6%. The market valuation of EV chargers is anticipated to grow from US$ 6,520.9 million in 2023 to about US$ 68,967.2 million by 2033. The global Clutch Friction Plate market is expected to witness a market value of US$ 11.0 Billion in 2023 and is expected to accumulate a market value of US$ 17.2 Billion by registering a CAGR of 4.5% in the forecast period 2023 to 2033. is expected to witness a market value of US$ 11.0 Billion in 2023 and is expected to accumulate a market value of US$ 17.2 Billion by registering a CAGR of 4.5% in the forecast period 2023 to 2033. Global Bumper Beam market is expected to witness a market value of US$ 1.8 Billion in 2023 and is expected to accumulate a market value of US$ 2.7 Billion by registering a CAGR of 4.0% in the forecast period 2023 to 2033. 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 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1197648/3531122/FMI_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/trends-like-smart-charging-and-iot-powering-up-the-car-battery-chargers-market-revenue---fmi-predicts-the-industry-to-have-a-cagr-of-7-by-2033-301941769.html NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / 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. Partnering with Indigenous communities is foundational to successful energy development. Our approach We seek to build authentic, meaningful and mutually beneficial relationships with Indigenous Peoples. We have agreements with a number of Indigenous communities near our operations. These agreements reflect how we work together on a range of matters from project consultation to realizing the benefits of commercial and business opportunities, as well as supporting skills, employment and training programs. All employees and contractors, as well as our joint venture partners, are responsible for following our policies. Our Chief Executive Officer is accountable to the Board of Directors for ensuring the Stakeholder Relations and Indigenous Relations policies are implemented. We are guided by the reconciliation framework outlined in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and work to apply its principles in our activities involving Indigenous Peoples, their land and resources. We are also informed and guided by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada and the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. We also measure and report our performance against the Mining Association of Canada's Towards Sustainable Mining Indigenous and Community Relationships Protocol. Journey of Reconciliation The Journey of Reconciliation reflects the continued transformation within our organization and in our relationships with Indigenous Peoples. It represents our commitment to learn about Indigenous culture and history with open hearts and minds, to expand our perspectives, and build genuine relationships with Indigenous Peoples based on mutual trust and respect. Through this Journey of Reconciliation, Suncor aspires to progress the way we think and act to learn and better understand Indigenous perspectives and reflect Indigenous knowledge in what we do. We work to recognize the impacts of Suncor's operations on Indigenous communities and incorporate that knowledge into our business activities. Reconciliation is critical to healing and deepening relationships with Indigenous Peoples. We are taking an active and meaningful role as outlined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission call to action #92. We believe it is the right thing to do from a societal and business standpoint. Including Indigenous perspectives brings about innovation and different ways of approaching our work. Building strong relationships with Indigenous communities earns the trust and respect of true partners that helps propel our business and navigate the ever-changing landscape. The Journey of Reconciliation is fundamental to our purpose. It supports our strategy of becoming a leader in sustainability and the energy transition. Read more on how we are building trust and respect with Indigenous Peoples here. Partnering with Indigenous business and communities It starts with open and honest relationship building to understand common interests and how we can partner together for mutual benefit. Meaningful participation requires the ability to understand each other's desired outcomes, strengths and limitations. When it comes to our supply chain, our Indigenous Business Participation Strategy supports sourcing activity across the company. Working with local Indigenous businesses provides close and reliable talent and services. It also supports companies to invest revenues back into their communities. In 2022, we spent approximately 27% more with Indigenous suppliers than in 2021. Twenty percent of our overall spending - worth approximately $3.1 billion - was with Indigenous suppliers. This was achieved by focusing on increased engagement and new relationships with suppliers that were established over the past few years. Doing business with Indigenous suppliers is embedded in our way of working, which is why we no longer set an annual spending target. Suncor's work with Indigenous communities also remains strong through our Petro-Canada business. As of 2022, we have 63 Petro-Canada branded retail stations and wholesale marketing arrangements with First Nation and Metis communities. Not only do the retail stations service the community, but, in some instances, they act as a place for community members to gather. Strengthening Indigenous workforce and inclusion We want Suncor to be an inclusive and diverse work environment where everyone feels valued and respected. We believe this supports strong business performance, differentiates us in our communities and helps us to attract and retain Indigenous employees who want to build meaningful careers for the long term. Based on data from voluntary self-identification, as of 2022, Suncor has 923 Indigenous employees, which is 5.4% of our workforce. Journeys, Suncor's Indigenous employee inclusion network, plays an important role in supporting Indigenous employees to feel a sense of safety, pride and belonging within the company. Journeys has been pivotal in creating deep connections between Indigenous and non-Indigenous employees. The network hosts numerous events and cultural experiences throughout the year, including medicine harvests, sharing circles and Indigenous Awareness Week events, inspiring employees to learn and take actions in reconciliation. We have a Diversity, Talent and Sourcing Advisor, who manages all skills, employment and training for agreements with Indigenous communities. The advisor also works on initiatives such as training-to-employment programs in areas where we operate, and the Oil Sands Regional Workforce committee, led by the Oil Sands Community Alliance, to take a regional approach focused on mentorship and careers for youth in the Wood Buffalo region. The advisor is a resource to advise leaders and employees on Indigenous culture, protocols and knowledge and co-leads Journeys. Additional resources for Indigenous employees include the Indigenous Employee Mentorship Program, and Indigenous Programs for post-secondary students. Partnering with Indigenous youth Indigenous youth and their voices represent the future. The Indigenous Youth Advisory Council (IYAC) works with Suncor, the Suncor Energy Foundation (SEF), our Indigenous and Community Relations team and various senior leaders to listen, share, reflect and act on issues of mutual interest that are affecting Indigenous communities and the lives of Indigenous youth. It also supports young Indigenous leaders in developing their leadership potential while providing opportunities to participate in the energy system. IYAC further strengthened its relationships with leaders in 2021 through the formation of the IYAC Mentorship Program. The program focuses on reciprocal two-way mentorship between members of the SEF board and IYAC to support one-on-one human connections that are important for strengthening relationships. Another way we partner with Indigenous youth is through postsecondary institutions across Canada. Since 2019, a member of Suncor's Indigenous and Community Relations team in Sarnia, Ontario, has been part of a Lambton College planning committee designing an Indigenous Outdoor Gathering Space for youth on campus. Indigenous members of the committee oversaw the entire process and provided valuable direction on the purpose and design of the space. Students at the college will use this space for ceremonies, learning and gathering year-round. It will also be a place where Indigenous and non-Indigenous students and members of the community can walk the reconciliation path together. The Starlight family of Tsuut'ina First Nation raising the tipi (teepee) at Suncor's corporate headquarters in Calgary that they gifted to Journeys, Suncor's Indigenous employee inclusion network, during Indigenous Awareness Week 2022. 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/788381/indigenous-relations-at-suncor-2023-report-on-sustainability October Event is Designed for Leaders Responsible for Change and Growth at Large Organizations CAMBRIDGE, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Executives from some of the world's biggest companies will meet in Cambridge on Oct. 25-27 to share best practices on innovation, transformation, and experimenting with new technologies like generative AI. The conference, organized by the innovation network InnoLead, will feature executives from multinationals across sectors, including Amazon, Google, Nike, J&J, Fidelity Investments, Sonesta International Hotels, The Nature Conservancy, AstraZeneca, General Mills, John Hancock, Goodyear, Campbell Soup, and hundreds of others. Impact: The Year's Largest Gathering of Corporate Innovators Colette Mathews leads a workshop at a recent Impact conference. The event brings together executives responsible for innovation, strategy, R&D, and emerging tech at Global 1000 companies. "We call it the most useful event of the year for anyone responsible for innovation, transformation, and driving growth inside big companies," said InnoLead founder and CEO Scott Kirsner. Unlike many other innovation and technology forums - which are typically designed for consumers, startups, or investors - InnoLead's Impact gathering is custom-built for executives at large corporations. "Impact is for executives trying to do new things in established companies," said Kirsner. "It's a challenging job," he says, "and Impact provides a way for leaders to validate their experience and hone their strategies, in a safe environment." "A major focus of this year's event will be better understanding and operationalizing generative AI," said Cliff Justice, U.S. Leader of Enterprise Innovation at KPMG US. "Impact is a forum where corporate innovators can learn from peers and discuss how to leverage innovative solutions to drive value and solve complex challenges," said Justice, who recently established a startup incubator and accelerator inside KPMG. "The event is aimed at providing innovators the confidence they need to invest in the right things at the right time and to make a meaningful difference in the future of their organizations." While generative AI is of particular interest to attendees of Impact 2023, the event will cover a number of topics that have been top-of-mind for InnoLead members over the last year. Conference tracks will include: Constructive Collaboration with Business Units and Functions; Building New Ventures; Advancing Open Innovation & Startup Engagement; Generating Business Value with AI; Optimizing the Innovation Team; and Navigating New Mandates (including Sustainability + DEI) The event - which eschews typical PowerPoint decks and panel discussions - will feature a diverse range of small-group conversations, fireside chats, interactive workshops, and even dynamic pop-up sessions planned on the spot. Two industry-specific lunch discussions will focus on driving innovation in healthcare and financial services. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour innovation labs and startup incubators, including Greentown Labs, MassRobotics, and the Fidelity Center for Applied Technology, on a pre-conference day. To learn more about Impact 2023 and secure your spot at the conference, visit the official conference website for more information on registration options, pricing, and hotel discounts. Contact Information Julianna Ferreiros Marketing Coordinator julianna@innolead.com SOURCE: InnoLead View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/788365/innovation-strategy-and-transformation-executives-to-converge-in-cambridge-for-innoleads-annual-impact-conference REHOBOTH BEACH, Del., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Securing trustworthy business partners in international trade has always been a challenging task, requiring years of meticulous and painstaking groundwork, careful analysis, and the courage to deal with uncertainty. This article explores how cutting-edge AI tools, such as Volza, have been innovatively tackling these persistent challenges. Evaluating potential partners from their online presence has been a formidable hurdle. There are no foolproof methods to ensure the competency and reliability of these entities based solely on their digital footprint. Conducting in-person visits, although insightful, is both time-consuming and costly. Moreover, transactions with unfamiliar buyers could result in bad debts, while dealings with unknown suppliers might yield subpar products or even lead to a total loss of the advance payment. These hurdles are particularly daunting for professionals in the export-import industry aiming to broaden their global trade reach. In response, an AI-Powered tool like Volza allows professionals to strategically use the power of artificial intelligence and machine learning to navigate these challenges and make informed decisions. Volza provides an extensive global trade database, including complete shipment details through bills of lading. This tool arms users with essential information about active exporters and importers, capturing years of their export-import experience, current buyers and suppliers, transaction frequency, ongoing orders, shipment volumes, pricing, consignment numbers, and an exhaustive trade history. With this wealth of data, users can confidently assess and choose suitable business partners. Vijay Sethia, Director of Chamanlal Sethia, one of India's foremost rice exporters, testifies to the transformative impact of these tools. According to Sethia, the introduction of trade data portals has empowered them to dramatically expand their business operations. Gone are the days of protracted struggles, with years spent on marketing, traveling, and product sampling. Today, importers and exporters can swiftly map out their market, efficiently identifying trustworthy and reliable business partners in just a matter of hours. While other trade databases like Panjiva and ImportGenius offer similar services, they seem to cover fewer countries. A glance at the Volza website shows that it provides trade data for more than 80 countries, while Panjiva and ImportGenius support a trade base across 10 and 14 countries, respectively. Michael Robinson, Director of Volza, emphasizes their mission to expedite the entire process of identifying suitable business partners. "We aim to make it quicker, more cost-effective, and feasible. Users can bypass years of relentless effort, elevating their businesses to new heights with confidence, and in a fraction of the traditional timeframe," he explains. Platforms like Volza also overcome the obstacle of procuring direct contact details for key decision-makers. Whether it's the export head, import head, or other relevant stakeholders, Volza's built-in function provides access to their contact information and even links to their LinkedIn profiles. In conclusion, AI's integration into international trade is ushering in a transformative era. Platforms like Volza are making the identification and evaluation of business partners more efficient and reliable. By offering extensive trade data and essential contact information, these platforms are setting new benchmarks in the sector. It's clear that AI-powered trade data tools are more than clever business strategies; they are now a prerequisite for success in the globalized marketplace. As AI and Big Data technologies continue to evolve, their impact on facilitating international trade will only expand, heralding a future where global business expansion is seamless and confident. About Volza: Founded in 2017, Volza is dedicated to propelling global business expansion for export-import companies. Harnessing advanced analytics and dashboard tools, Volza unveils hidden opportunities and threats, empowering import-export businesses to thrive in today's competitive market. As an industry disruptor, Volza offers access to comprehensive global trade data, facilitating confident decision-making. Discover more at https://www.volza.com/. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2105148/Volza_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/harnessing-ai-to-find-ideal-business-partners-in-international-trade-301937465.html The European Union Digital Identity (EUDI) Wallet is a key part of the European Commissions plan for the digital future. The EUDI Wallet is designed to provide EU citizens with a single, secure set of digital identity credentials to support travel, work, access to public services, payments, signing documents and more. This e-book takes and in-depth look at the EUDI, analyzing how the technology works as well as how it will affect the future of technology in the EU. Download now to learn more. WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - U.S. scientists using space-based radar have found that land in New York City is sinking at varying rates from human and natural factors. The NASA-led study has also found that a few parts of the New York City metropolitan area are rising due to factors ranging from land-use practices to long-lost glaciers. Although the elevation changes in a marginal rate of fractions of inches per year, they can enhance or diminish local flood risk linked to sea level rise, scientists have found. The new study was published in Science Advances by a team of researchers from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California and Rutgers University in New Jersey. The team analyzed upward and downward vertical land motion - also known as uplift and subsidence - across the metropolitan area from 2016 to 2023 using a remote sensing technique called interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR). The technique combines two or more 3D observations of the same region to reveal surface motion or topography. Much of the motion they observed occurred in areas where prior modifications to Earth's surface - such as land reclamation and the construction of landfills - made the ground looser and more compressible beneath subsequent buildings. Some of the motion is also caused by natural processes dating back thousands of years to the most recent ice age. About 24,000 years ago, a huge ice sheet spread across most of New England, and a wall of ice more than a mile high covered what is today Albany in upstate New York. Earth's mantle, somewhat like a flexed mattress, has been slowly readjusting ever since. New York City, which sits on land that was raised just outside the edge of the ice sheet, is now sinking back down. The study identified a number of hot spots of land that are subsiding in Queens: runway 13/31 at LaGuardia Airport, Arthur Ashe Stadium, the southern portion of Governors Island, sites near the ocean in Brooklyn's Coney Island and Arverne, Route 440 and Interstate 78 in suburban New Jersey, and in Rikers Island. The scientists said that cities like New York, which are investing in coastal defenses and infrastructure in the face of sea level rise, can benefit from high-resolution estimates of land motion. Copyright(c) 2023 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Die Top 3 Dividendenaktien 2024 In diesem Report stellen wir Ihnen 3 Top-Aktien aus dem Energie-Sektor vor, die Sie unbedingt auf Ihre Watchlist setzen mussen. Lassen Sie sich diese kostenlose Analyse nicht entgehen! Hier klicken Bordeaux, 28 September 2023 - Hydrogene de France ("HDF Energy" or the "Company" - Euronext Paris: HDF), a developer of large-scale hydrogen infrastructure and manufacturer of high-power fuel cells, presents its business activity and financial statements for the first half of 2023. The consolidated half-year financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 27 September 2023. Key figures H1 2023 H1 2022 Revenues (000) 1,437 1,746 Gains on disposal of securities2 (000) - 1,041 Consolidated net income/(loss) (000) (2,992) (846) First half average headcount1 78 51 Key figures 30/06/2023 31/12/2022 Capacity of plants under development (MW) 909 751 Shareholders' equity (000) 105,327 107,410 Cash and cash equivalents (000) 76,736 87,359 Employees and contractors in countries where the Company has no dedicated legal entity Sale of shares to investors in SPVs Commercial rollout and strengthening of technical teams Prospecting initiatives in 2022 enabled us to expand the portfolio of projects under development, which had increased by over 20% at 30 June 2023 compared to 31 December 2022. Portfolio monitoring provides the earliest indicator of HDF's value creation for both the group and all project stakeholders. The HDF group estimates that it is able to generate revenues representing between 12% and 17% of the cost of construction during the development and construction phases, including via the provision of engineering services and supply of fuel cells during the power plant construction phase. After focusing mainly on commercial rollout in 2022, the priority for early 2023 was to strengthen the central technical teams in order to ensure monitoring of the excellent sales results achieved in 2022, as reflected in the business portfolio. Accordingly, the Technical Division hired 17 new employees, mainly at head office. Construction of the Blanquefort plant and consolidation of the industrial project The deployment of technical teams includes the teams dedicated to the launch of fuel cell manufacturing in 2024 following the delivery of the Blanquefort plant scheduled for late 2023. Nearly 6 million was invested in this area during the first half. Meanwhile, the group is expanding its deployment strategy in the marine and rail mobility sectors by acquiring equity interests in Digas, a Latvian company specialising in locomotive retrofitting, and Hynaval (after the 30 June balance sheet date), which specialises in the design, manufacture and retrofitting of hydrogen-powered ships. These two investments support strategic partnerships aimed at combining these companies' business expertise with HDF's experience throughout the hydrogen value chain. The relevant European Commission departments are currently examining the IPCEI application (Important Project of Common European Interest). The decision is now expected by mid-2024 and will allow the group to step up the project's implementation. Half-year results reflecting commercial and technical investments Consolidated revenues for H1 2023 totalled 1.4 million versus 1.7 million in H1 2022. This mainly corresponds to revenues recognised under the Renewstable Barbados (RSB) project development contract and includes re-invoicing, without margin, for services outsourced to external service providers for 0.5 million (compared to 0.05 million in H1 2022). Due to delays in project development and in the sale of shares to investors in certain SPVs, we were not able to generate consolidated revenues corresponding to the services rendered for our most advanced projects, other than RSB, during the first half. Invoicing issued by HDF in H1 2023 for project management assistance services for projects over which the group will retain control, the impact of which is eliminated in the consolidated financial statements, amounted to 0.7 million, versus 1.6 million in H1 2022. This value creation will be recognised indirectly through gains or losses on disposal of the investments when control is lost. Accordingly, in 2022 the group posted a 1 million gain on disposal following the loss of control in RSB (compared to zero gains or losses on disposals in H1 2023). The acceleration of the development plan and team structuring drive led to an increase in operating expenses. Average headcount (employees and contractors) rose from 51 in H1 2022 to 78 in H1 2023. Despite the significant financial profit derived from cash investments, the group posted a 3.0 million consolidated net loss for H1 2023, compared to a 0.8 million loss in H1 2022. Solid financial structure, promising outlook At 30 June 2023, Group shareholders' equity stood at 105.3 million compared to 107.4 million at 31 December 2022. Cash and cash equivalents amounted to 76.7 million, down from 87.4 million at 31 December 2022 as a result of the industrial investments made during the period. As such, the Company still has the financial means required to continue its development and accelerate its commercial rollout. In French Guiana, various demonstrations have held up construction work on the CEOG power plant, which was temporarily suspended for several months in 2023. Construction work resumed on 16 August 2023. On this occasion, HDF paid a 0.3 million current account advance in August 2023 and committed on 7 September 2023 to the payment of an additional 0.95 million staggered over the plant construction phase. This landmark project remains profitable for HDF despite this additional financing. Discussions are currently underway regarding the schedule for the transferral of fuel cell ownership to Siemens Energy in 2023 or 2024, when HDF will recognise the corresponding revenues. The strong momentum observed in 2022 has continued into 2023 with the signing of partnerships, notably with the governments of Indonesia and Philippines. HDF Energy is therefore entering the coming months with confidence. Damien Havard, Chairman and CEO of Hydrogene de France, said: "In line with our strategic plan, prospecting and team structuring have continued since the beginning of 2023. The positive progress made on projects under development gives us confidence in the future economic benefits. All our teams are committed to this goal. The industrial component is currently being rolled out and new markets are taking shape through concrete partnerships. Our solid financial structure is a source of confidence for planning the plant's commissioning and the development of these new markets." ABOUT HYDROGENE DE FRANCE (HDF Energy) HDF Energy is a leading global player in the hydrogen industry, dedicated to developing large-scale hydrogen infrastructure and advanced multi-megawatt fuel cell technology. Its primary focus lies in decarbonizing the power, heavy mobility and industrial sectors with cutting-edge H2 solutions. With its flagship model, the Renewstable turnkey hydrogen power plant, HDF Energy delivers green, stable, and baseload power by seamlessly integrating intermittent renewable energy sources with substantial on-site energy storage in the form of green hydrogen. Backed by a team of hydrogen infrastructure experts with a decade of hands-on technical experience across the entire value chain, HDF Energy has already built an important portfolio of projects in advanced stages of development. Furthermore, HDF Energy stands out with its technological know-how in the development of multi-MW fuel cells. In 2024, the Group will start mass production at its state-of-the-art factory near Bordeaux. HDF Energy's fuel cells will be integrated into hydrogen power plants, freight locomotives and vessels. Headquartered in France, HDF Energy has regional offices in Latin America, the Caribbean, Asia, Africa, and Oceania with 30+ nationalities among its staff. Since 2021, the Group has been listed on the Euronext Paris stock market, member of the Euronext Tech Leaders segment. For more information: www.hdf-energy.com Contacts Investor Relations Media Relations Helene de Watteville + 33 (0)1 53 67 36 33 hdf-energy@actus.fr Serena BONI +33 (0)4 72 18 04 92 sboni@actus.fr ------------------------ This publication embed "Actusnews SECURITY MASTER ". - SECURITY MASTER Key: lWlrlZuZlGzImZ9qYchonGiUammWm5OXmWrJmGdwaMfFb3FmlWppl5nJZnFjlWpt - Check this key: https://www.security-master-key.com. ------------------------ Copyright Actusnews Wire Receive by email the next press releases of the company by registering on www.actusnews.com, it's free Full and original release in PDF format:https://www.actusnews.com/documents_communiques/ACTUS-0-82057-hdf_resultats-30-juin-2023-vdef_eng.docx.pdf Finsbury Growth & Income Trust Plc - Transaction in Own Shares PR Newswire LONDON, United Kingdom, September 28 For immediate release 28 September 2023 FINSBURY GROWTH & INCOME TRUST PLC (the "Company") MARKET PURCHASE OF COMPANY'S OWN SHARES The Company announces that it has today purchased 100,000 of its own shares ("Ordinary Shares") at a price of 848.07 pence per Ordinary Share. Such shares will be held in treasury by the Company. The transaction was made pursuant to the authority granted at the Annual General Meeting of the Company held on 17 January 2023. Following this transaction, the total number of Ordinary Shares held by the Company in treasury is 20,321,869; the total number of Ordinary Shares that the Company has in issue, less the total number of Ordinary Shares held by the Company in treasury following such purchase, and therefore, the total number of voting rights in the Company is 204,669,434. The figure of 204,669,434 may be used by shareholders as the denominator for calculations of interests in the Company's voting rights in accordance with the FCA's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules. For and on behalf of Frostrow Capital LLP Company Secretary For further information, please contact: Victoria Hale Frostrow Capital LLP Tel: 020 3 170 8732 Redde Northgate Plc - Transaction in Own Shares PR Newswire LONDON, United Kingdom, September 28 NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO OR FROM ANY JURISDICTION WHERE TO DO SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OR REGULATIONS OF SUCH JURISDICTION 28 September 2023 REDDE NORTHGATE PLC ("Redde Northgate" or the "Group" or the "Company") Transaction in Own Shares Redde Northgate plc (LSE:REDD) announces that on 28 September 2023 it purchased the following number of its own shares to be held in treasury: Class of shares : Ordinary shares of 50p ("shares") Number of shares purchased : 75,000 Weighted average purchase price paid : 337.5 pence per share Highest purchase price paid : 337.5 pence per share Lowest purchase price paid : 337.5 pence per share Following the above transaction, the Company's issued share capital consists of 246,091,423 ordinary shares of 50p each, of which 15,132,571 ordinary shares are held in treasury, and 1,000,000 preference shares of 50p each which do not carry any rights to vote. Therefore the total number of voting rights in the Company is 230,958,852 which may be used by shareholders as the denominator for the calculations by which they will determine if they are required to notify their interest in, or a change to their interest in the Company under the FCA's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules. In accordance with Article 5(1)(b) of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 (the Market Abuse Regulation) as incorporated into UK domestic law by the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, the schedule below contains detailed information about the purchases made by Numis Securities Limited on behalf of the Company as part of the Company's buyback programme. Schedule of Purchase - Individual Transactions (as at 28 September 2023) Number of shares purchased Transaction price (GB pence per share) Time of transaction Transaction reference number Venue 75,000 337.50 13:02:12 00067173686TRLO0 LSE Notes This announcement is made in accordance with the requirements of Listing Rule 12.4.6. For further information contact: Buchanan David Rydell/Jamie Hooper/Hannah Ratcliff +44 (0) 207 466 5000 Notes to Editors: Redde Northgate is the leading integrated mobility solutions platform providing services across the vehicle lifecycle. The Company offers integrated mobility solutions to businesses, fleet operators, insurers, OEMs and other customers across seven key areas: vehicle rental, vehicle data, accident management, vehicle repairs, fleet management, service and maintenance, vehicle ancillary services and vehicle sales. The Company's core purpose is to keep its customers mobile, whether through meeting their regular mobility needs or by servicing and supporting them when unforeseen events occur. With its considerable scale and reach, Redde Northgate's mission is to offer a market-leading customer proposition and drive enhanced returns for shareholders by creating value through sustainable compounding growth. The Group aims to achieve this through the delivery of its strategic framework of Focus, Drive and Broaden. Redde Northgate services its customers through a network and diversified fleet of over 120,000 owned and leased vehicles, supporting over 600,000 managed vehicles, with more than 170 workshop, body shop and rental locations across the UK, Ireland and Spain and a specialist team of over 6,000 automotive services professionals. Further information please visit the Company's website: SURREY, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Gungnir Resources Inc. (TSX-V:GUG)(OTC PINK:ASWRF) ("Gungnir" or the "Company") is pleased to report 2023 drill results from the Company's Lappvattnet high-grade nickel deposit in northern Sweden. Drilling continued to define and expand the limits of both the Main Zone and recently discovered Footwall Zone. Please refer to accompany schematic long section ( see Figure 1 ). Highlights: High-grade central core of the Main Zone shows good continuity including new intercept of 6.10 metres of 2.47% Ni including 0.55 metres of 7.36% Ni in drill hole LAP23-01 along with several of Gungnir's 2021/22 high-grade nickel hits in drill hole LAP23-01 along with several of Gungnir's 2021/22 high-grade nickel hits Main Zone intercept 100 metres below current nickel resource Footwall Zone intersections up to 16.9 metres of 0.56% Ni Very shallow easterly plunge indicated with a total potential strike extent of approximately 1.5 kilometres Sparsely drilled east half of the property offers shallow to moderate depth targeting potential Expanded multi-year drill permit to be submitted "This round of drilling successfully accomplished our 2023 objectives and shows considerable potential to expand the deposit beyond the current 2020 Lappvattnet nickel resource, in particular the shallow down-plunge extension target in the eastern half of the property where historic drilling is very sparse. Our recently discovered Footwall Zone offers further upside potential at Lappvattnet. Significant drilling will be required to further advance and define this high-grade nickel sulphide deposit," commented Jari Paakki, CEO. The 2023 program at Lappvattnet consisted of eight holes drilled on three profiles (Sections 13E, 16E and 19E) totaling 1,910 metres; please refer to accompanying long section and results table below. Gungnir has now drilled 53 holes for 7,345 metres in three rounds at Lappvattnet from 2021 to 2023. The Main Zone was cut in five holes with the deepest intercept in drill hole LAP23-08 located on section 19E approximately 100 metres below the current nickel resource with mineralization hosted in a thicker peridotite unit similar to the western part of the deposit. Drill hole LAP23-01 further refined the central high-grade core of the Main Zone (> 5% Ni assays; pink on attached long section) which appears to plunge very shallowly to the east. Holes LAP23-02, -03 and -07 further defined continuity within the Main Zone. Three holes, LAP23-04, -05 and -06 contributed to defining the upper and lower limits, and plunge of the Main Zone. The Main Zone, on the sections drilled, dips steeply to the south at -70 to -80o and has a total strike length potential of approximately 1.5 km to the eastern property boundary. The east half of the property is sparsely drilled with most historic holes over-shooting the new refined target, and some holes drilled too deep and/or too short. The sub-parallel Footwall Zone is located about 25 to 75 metres in the structural footwall, or north of the Main Zone starting at Section 13E (apparent western limit). It was encountered in three holes drilled. Footwall intercepts include 16.9 metres of 0.56% Ni (drill hole LAP23-02) and highly anomalous Ni mineralization in holes LAP23-05 and LAP23-08 (with individual assays up to 0.62% Ni) up to 175 metres below the current resource block. Nickel in all three holes is hosted within sulphide mineralized peridotite units and its margins. The Footwall Zone is open at depth and possibly down-plunge, sharing a similar structural trend with the Main Zone. 2023 Results Table: Hole ID Zone From (m) To (m) Length (m) Ni % Cu % Co % PGEs (g/t) ETW % LAP23-01 Main 66.00 74.90 8.90 1.88 0.20 0.03 0.18 90 incl 66.00 72.10 6.10 2.47 0.25 0.04 0.24 90 incl 69.35 72.10 2.75 4.81 0.24 0.08 0.45 90 incl 69.93 70.48 0.55 7.36 0.02 0.12 0.25 90 LAP23-02 Main 110.00 117.80 7.80 0.67 0.21 0.01 0.16 60 Footwall 131.00 147.90 16.90 0.56 0.08 0.01 0.13 60 LAP23-03 Main 116.00 123.00 7.00 0.89 0.14 0.02 0.10 90 incl 121.60 122.50 0.90 3.97 0.23 0.07 0.24 90 LAP23-04 NSV LAP23-05 Footwall 249.00 256.00 7.00 0.23 0.09 0.01 0.08 55 LAP23-06 NSV LAP23-07 Main 130.00 137.40 7.40 0.51 0.30 0.01 0.01 85 incl 135.10 137.40 2.30 1.05 0.59 0.02 0.03 85 incl 136.30 136.65 0.35 1.25 2.19 0.02 0.17 85 incl 136.65 136.90 0.25 4.73 0.06 0.12 0.30 85 LAP23-08 Main 210.85 215.00 4.15 0.51 0.07 0.01 0.26 75 Main 221.00 234.00 13.00 0.67 0.10 0.02 0.38 75 Footwall 305.00 311.90 6.90 0.22 0.03 0.01 0.04 75 PGEs (g/t) = platinum (Pt) + palladium (Pd) + gold (Au) Length = Core length in metres; ETW = Estimated True Width as a percentage of core length NSV = No significant values In addition to incorporating 2023 drill data into the Company's 3D model, next steps will also include field/data reviews in the eastern part of property ahead of the next phase of work. The Company plans to submit an expanded, multi-year drill permit extension which will include potential plans for geophysical surveys. The Company also plans to evaluate metallurgical testing options. At the same time as the Lappvattnet field checks, scheduled for October, management will view drill core from four, short scout holes that the Company drilled at its Hemberget property. Preliminary drill collar co-ordinates in Swedish system RT90-2.5 (Easting/Northing), drill section, azimuth and dip in degrees, and hole length in metres (final surveys pending): LAP23-01: 1741710mE/7165216mN; 13E; azimuth: 335 o ; dip: -55 o ; length: 150m ; dip: -55 ; length: 150m LAP23-02: 1741710mE/7165216mN; 13E; azimuth: 335 o ; dip: -78 o ; length: 210m ; dip: -78 ; length: 210m LAP23-03: 1741839mE/7165215mN; 16E; azimuth: 335 o ; dip: -52 o ; length: 199m ; dip: -52 ; length: 199m LAP23-04: 1741840mE/7165214mN; 16E; azimuth: 335 o ; dip: -70 o ; length: 252m ; dip: -70 ; length: 252m LAP23-05: 1741840mE/7165214mN; 16E; azimuth: 335 o ; dip: -80 o ; length: 303m ; dip: -80 ; length: 303m LAP23-06: 1741950mE/7166265mN; 19E; azimuth: 335 o ; dip: -45 o ; length: 198m ; dip: -45 ; length: 198m LAP23-07: 1741950mE/7166265mN; 19E; azimuth: 335 o ; dip: -60 o ; length: 250m ; dip: -60 ; length: 250m LAP23-08: 1741968mE/7166225mN; 19E; azimuth: 335o; dip: -65o; length: 348m Core was logged and tagged for sampling at the Company's logging facility in Lycksele, Sweden, then shipped to ALS Minerals' Core Services Laboratory in Mala, Sweden. Core was sawed on site in Mala by ALS staff and prepped sample material was sent to ALS's Lab in Ireland. Core was analyzed for multi-elements using code ME-MS41, CuOG46 analysis for >10000 ppm Cu, NiOG46 analysis for >10000 ppm Ni, and Pt, Pd, and Au were analyzed using fire assay method PGM-ICP27. Blanks, certified standards and duplicates are routinely included in sample batches for quality assurance and control. Gungnir's nickel resources in Sweden currently total 177 million pounds (80.5 million kg) of nickel: Lappvattnet: Inferred Resource of 780,000 tonnes grading 1.35% nickel for 23.1 million lbs (10.5 million kg) of nickel. Rormyrberget: Inferred Resource of 36,800,000 tonnes grading 0.19% nickel for 154 million lbs (70 million kg) of nickel. The NI 43-101 Technical Report entitled "TECHNICAL REPORT on the LAPPVATTNET and RORMYRBERGET DEPOSITS, NORTHERN SWEDEN" was prepared by Reddick Consulting Inc. Qualified Persons are John Reddick, M.Sc., P.Geo., and Thomas Lindholm, M.Sc., Fellow AusIMM. The Effective Date is November 17, 2020. The technical information in this news release has been prepared, verified and approved by Jari Paakki, P.Geo., CEO, and a director of the Company. Mr. Paakki is a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101. About Gungnir Resources Gungnir Resources Inc. is a Canadian-based TSX-V listed mineral exploration company (GUG: TSX-V, ASWRF: OTCPK) with gold and base metal projects in northern Sweden. Gungnir's assets include two nickel-copper-cobalt deposits, Lappvattnet and Rormyrberget, both with updated nickel resources, and the Knaften project which hosts a developing intrusion-hosted gold system, and VMS (zinc-copper) and copper-nickel targets, all of which are open for expansion and further discovery. The Company has also recently added the Hemberget property to its Swedish property portfolio targeting potential copper-nickel and VMS mineralization. Further information about the Company and its properties may be found at www.gungnirresources.com or at www.sedar.com. On behalf of the Board, Jari Paakki, CEO and Director For further information contact: Head Office/Investor Relations Phone: +1-604-683-0484 Email: corporatecommunications@gungnirresources.com Jari Paakki, CEO Email: jpaakki@eastlink.ca Chris Robbins, CFO Email: robbinscr@shaw.ca Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Information Certain statements in this news release may constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws (also known as forward-looking statements). Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, and may cause actual results, performance or achievements or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements or industry results expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information generally can be identified by the use of terms and phrases such as "anticipate", "believe", "could", "estimate", "expect", "feel", "intend", "may", "plan", "predict", "project", "subject to", "will", "would", and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions. Some of the specific forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to: expectations of future resource upgrades or expansions and that new drilling and assays will be incorporated into any resource upgrade or expansion; expectations that the resource extends at depth, along strike or down-plunge; extent of drilling and quantity of drill holes and timing of work permit submission and approvals; planned exploration program including anticipated drilling and geophysics, and the timing thereof; and Gungnir's plan for development of its properties and the timing thereof. Forward-looking information is based on a number of key expectations and assumptions made by Gungnir, including, without limitation: expectations of expanding and defining the existing resources are reasonable and possible; access to the resource will remain available; transportation and infrastructure will remain available as anticipated; the COVID-19 pandemic impact on the Canadian and global economy and Gungnir's business, and the extent and duration of such impact; no change to laws or regulations that negatively affect Gungnir's business; there will be a demand for Gungnir's services and products in the future; Gungnir will be able to operate its business as planned; Gungnir will be able to access capital markets on and successfully complete financings on terms it determines to be reasonable; and Gungnir's plans for future exploration and development of its properties is reasonable and will be possible within the anticipated timelines. Although the forward-looking information contained in this news release is based upon what Gungnir believes to be reasonable assumptions, it cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with such information. Forward-looking information is provided for the purpose of presenting information about management's current expectations and plans relating to the future and readers are cautioned that such statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking information involves significant risks and uncertainties and should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results as actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking information. Those risks and uncertainties include, among other things, risks related to: no certainty that any economically viable mineral deposit will be located on Gungnir's properties; that Gungnir may not be able to complete its planned drilling as anticipated; the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic; the impacts of war and/or other international conflicts; ability to access capital markets and complete successful financings on terms Gungnir determines to be reasonable; environmental matters; changes in legislation or regulations; receipt of required licenses, permits and approvals; and resource estimates may not be accurate and may differ significantly from actual mineral resources. Management believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information contained herein are based upon reasonable assumptions and information currently available; however, management can give no assurance that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained this news release is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to Gungnir. The forward-looking information is stated as of the date of this news release and Gungnir assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law. SOURCE: Gungnir Resources Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/788410/gungnir-drills-610-metres-of-247-nickel-including-peak-assay-of-736-nickel-and-hits-main-zone-100-metres-below-lappvattnet-nickel-resource IGEA Pharma N.V. / Key word(s): AGMEGM/AGMEGM IGEA Pharma N.V.: Convening notice and Agenda "Annual Shareholder Meeting" IGEA Pharma N.V. 28-Sep-2023 / 19:15 CET/CEST Release of an ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Convening notice 28 SEPTEMBER 2023 Dear Shareholder, The board of directors (the "Board") of IGEA Pharma N.V. (the "Company") hereby invites you to attend the Annual General Meeting on 09.11.2023 (the "AGM") that will take place at Tribes Amsterdam South Axis FOZ, Gustav Mahlerlaan 308, 1082 ME Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The meeting will start at 14:00 hours CEST and is to be attended physically. Registration will start at 13:00 hours CEST. The Board hereby convenes this AGM. The Company urges all shareholders to attend the meeting in person (or by proxy). Shareholders will have the possibility to vote manually or by proxy, and they will have the possibility to ask questions about the agenda items (i) during the AGM and (ii) prior to the AGM by submitting questions up to 72 hours prior to the AGM. The convening notice, the agenda and the explanatory notes are available for inspection on our website at https://www.igeapharma.nl/category/information-for-shareholders/. Furthermore, these items can be obtained free of charge (i) by e-mail at proxyvoting@kempen.nl; or by e-mail at info@igeapharma.nl. 1 Agenda 1. Opening 2. Approval Annual Report 2022 (voting item) 3. Proposal to adopt the annual accounts for the financial year 2022 (voting item) 4. Proposal for discharge of liability of the members of the Board of Directors and officers (voting item) 5. Proposal of an audit firm 6. Update on the appeal against the decision of SIX 7. Closing 2 Record date You are entitled to participate in and vote at the AGM if you have these rights on 12 October 2023 after close of trading and processing of all settlements (the "Record Date") and are registered as such in one of the registers designated by the Board, provided that you have registered to attend the AGM in accordance with the provisions set forth below. 3 Registration If you wish to attend the AGM by proxy, you must notify Van Lanschot Kempen N.V. by email to proxyvoting@kempen.nl through your bank or stockbroker (the "Intermediaries"). Notification can take place as of the date hereof, but no later than 2 November 2023, 16:00 hours CEST. The Intermediaries must provide Van Lanschot Kempen N.V. with a statement mentioning (i) the number of shares held by each of the shareholders on the Record Date on whose behalf they make the registration and (ii) as per shareholder, for which number of shares registration for the meeting is requested. 4 Voting by proxy If you wish to have yourself represented at the AGM by a proxy holder, you may - in addition to registering for the AGM as described above - grant a proxy to either (i) any employee of Computershare Netherlands B.V., as independent third party, or (ii) another person, to vote at the AGM on your behalf. The duly signed proxy instrument needs to be received by no later than 2 November 2023, 16:00 hours CEST at Van Lanschot Kempen N.V., Beethovenstraat 300, 1077 WZ Amsterdam and e-mail to proxyvoting@kempen.nl or to info@igeapharma.nl. A proxy form is available at the bottom. 5 Submission of questions before or during the AGM Shareholders attending the AGM have the possibility to send questions about the agenda items addressed to the General Meeting up to 72 hours prior to the AGM via e-mail to info@igeapharma.nl. The Company will address these questions either before the AGM on its website, or during the AGM, possibly in a bundled form. The answers to these questions will be published on the website of the Company. There is also a possibility to submit questions during the AGM. The Chairman of the meeting may further determine this in the interest of the order the meeting. For further information, please do not hesitate to contact the Company at the Company's Offices at info@igeapharma.nl. 6 Issued capital and voting rights of the Company At the day of this notice, the Company has an issued share capital of EUR 3,467,141.42 consisting of 337,030,142 ordinary shares and 9,684,000 treasury shares, each having a nominal value of EUR 0.01 The Company does not hold ordinary shares in its own capital. Therefore, the total number of voting rights at the day of this notice amounts to 337,030,142. Hoofddorp, 28 September 2023 The Board of Directors Explanatory notes Agenda item 2 & 3: Approval Annual Report 2022 and proposal to adopt the annual accounts for financial year 2022 The Company's Annual Report 2022 has been made available on the Company's website https://www.igeapharma.nl/category/financial-reports/ and at the office address of the Company. End of Inside Information Merged technical and operational expertise will be deployed in projects across Europe and the United States HEYCO Energy Group, Inc., through its subsidiary Petrichor Partners LP, completed its acquisition of UK-based energy firm Egdon Resources plc, the companies announced jointly today. The acquisition, which was unanimously recommended by Egdon's board of directors in May, marks a new milestone in the 20-year relationship between the two companies. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230927872787/en/ HEYCO, an upstream energy company with holdings in the United States and Europe, has invested in and provided technical advice to Egdon for more than two decades. This acquisition adds to HEYCO's expanding European portfolio, following the purchase of a gas field in Northern Spain and the establishment of a Madrid office in 2022. HEYCO is one of the few U.S. independent oil and gas companies with significant investments in Europe's conventional and unconventional plays. "Egdon is a very strong enterprise with current production and a number of exciting conventional, unconventional, and renewable opportunities," said George Yates, president and CEO of HEYCO. "The acquisition allows us to bring Egdon fully into the HEYCO family of companies and strategically leverage our collective technical and operational expertise across projects in the UK, Spain, and the United States." Founded in 1997, Egdon holds interests in 33 licences in the UK with exposure to the full cycle of opportunities from exploration through to development and production of oil and gas. The company's flagship Wressle field is the onshore UK's second highest producing oil field after Wytch Farm. Egdon is also developing opportunities for energy storage, hydrogen, geothermal, and renewable generation. "There is a great deal of mutual respect between Egdon and HEYCO built up over many years of working together," said Mark Abbott, CEO of Egdon. "We look forward to Egdon's next chapter as a private company within the wider HEYCO family where the combined financial and human capital will help us reach our vision of providing locally derived, secure, affordable, and sustainable energy to meet the UK's evolving energy needs." While Egdon's primary focus is on conventional oil and gas projects, it also has significant shale assets that are currently impacted by the UK's moratorium on hydraulic fracturing. "With its sizeable shale acreage in the Gainsborough Trough, Egdon has smartly positioned itself to be a leader in delivering critical volumes of natural gas to UK households and businesses should lawmakers support local, unconventional development," said Yates. There is an independently recognised demand for natural gas in the UK both during the transition to Net Zero in 2050 and beyond. The UK's Climate Change Committee has modelled natural gas demand across five scenarios compliant with the UK's Net Zero commitments, each of which shows a shortfall of natural gas supplies. The UK has an untapped trove of world-class shale reserves. Data shows that the Bowland Shale in the Gainsborough Trough is a premier opportunity with a gas in place per square mile exceeding most of the largest natural gas shale plays in the United States. About HEYCO Energy Group HEYCO Energy Group, Inc., is an energy portfolio company with subsidiaries active in upstream oil and gas operations in the United States and Europe. HEYCO is privately owned by members of the Yates family of Southeastern New Mexico, who have been active in the oil and natural gas business since the 1920s. To learn more, visit HEYCO Energy Group, Inc. at www.heycoenergy.com. About Egdon Resources Egdon Resources is an established UK-based energy company focused on onshore exploration and production in the UK. Egdon is an approved operator in the UK and holds interests in 33 licences with exposure to production, development, appraisal and exploration projects. Egdon was formed in 1997, was listed on AIM between 2004 and 2023, and has recently become a private company and the newest member of the HEYCO group. To learn more, visit Egdon Resources at www.egdon-resources.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230927872787/en/ Contacts: Daniel Nix, HEYCO Energy Group +1 214 396 8911 New identity unveiled, with the aim at developing innovative therapies against cancer R&D efforts maintained for VIO-01 (formerly OX425) and AsiDNA TM Optimization of PlatON TM platform, targeting new assets in combination with DNA decoys Cash position of 16.8 million as of June 30, 2023, strengthened by a 12 million capital increase Financial visibility assured until Q2 2024 Continue to evaluate opportunities for business partnerships Regulatory News: Valerio Therapeutics S.A. (Euronext Growth Paris: ALVIO), hereafter "Valerio Therapeutics" or the "Company", a clinical-stage biotechnology company specializing in the development of innovative drugs targeting tumor DNA Damage Response (DDR), today reports its consolidated half-year financial results to June 30, 2023, and provides an update on its activities. Dr. Shefali Agarwal, President and CEO of Valerio Therapeutics, said: "The first half of 2023 was an important phase for our Company. By renaming ourselves Valerio Therapeutics, we highlighted our will to use innovative technologies such as DNA decoys to advance new anti-cancer treatments. AsiDNATM, our first-in-class drug candidate, is currently being evaluated in an ongoing 1b/2 trial in the United State. This study is in combination with Olaparib in recurrent ovarian, breast and metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer and the objective is to assess the safety and tolerability of the combination as well as to determine the recommended Phase 2 dose. Patient recruitment is progressing, and Top-line results are expected this year. In parallel, AsiDNATM has also continued to be evaluated in two additional studies in collaboration with French academic research centers, the first one by Gustave Roussy to combat PARP inhibitor resistance in second-line maintenance treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer, and the second one by the Institut Curie in combination with radiotherapy in recurrent high-grade glioma in children. Finally, our R&D efforts have been focused on the optimization of our PlatONTM platform and the development new therapeutic agents in oncology and other therapeutic agents. We now have a lead candidate from the OX400 compound family, VIO-01 (formerly OX425), a pan DNA repair decoy. This product works by abrogating several DNA repair pathways, inducing a drug-driven synthetic lethality without the need of a combined treatment. This potentially is first of its kind product with a broad applicability and thus represents a promising drug candidate to move forward to clinical development. We continue to explore new therapeutic pathways with PlatONTM and think that PROTACs (PROteolysis-TArgeting Chimeras) technology and other tumor specific targeting options may be a novel class presenting several potential benefits when combined with our DNA decoy molecules. By all these progresses, Valerio Therapeutics is well positioned to rapidly advance breakthrough therapeutic candidates through Phase 2 development and, eventually, to contribute to the treatment of cancer patients globally. Additionally, we are also continuing active evaluation of business partnerships that can be synergistic to our pipeline and the team." FINANCIAL RESULTS FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 2023 Consolidated income statement (IFRS) In thousands of euros June 30, 2023 June 30,2022 Revenues, of which: 0 0 Recurring revenues 0 0 Non-recurring revenues 0 0 Operating expenses, including: (11,622) (9,631) R&D expenditure with third parties (5,643) (4,107) Other current operating income 28 282 Current operating income (11,594) (9,348) Other non-recurring operating income 0 385 Income from companies accounted for by the equity method Operating income after share of profit of associates (11,593) (8,963) Financial income (50) (2,448) Income tax expense 0 (59) Net income (11,644) (11,471) The half-year accounts as of June 30, 2023, drawn up according to IFRS standards and approved by the Board of Directors on September 28, 2023, have not been audited nor been the subject of a limited review; being remembered that a new auditor was appointed at the shareholders' meeting held on 6 June 2023. The Group did not record any consolidated revenues for the period ended June 30, 2023. Operating expenses amounted to 11.6 million. The increase compared to 9.6 million in 2022 is related to the strengthening of the scientific teams, and to the growth in R&D expenses. The latter increased by 1.5 million in the first half of 2023 to reach 5.6 million, mainly due to industrial development and manufacturing of clinical batches for AsiDNATM The financial loss as of June 30, 2023, amounted to 50k compared to a loss of 2.4 million as of June 30, 2022, mainly due to the cost of the bond issue with SWK Holdings. TheGroup's total net loss wasthus 11.6 million in the first half of 2023, compared with a loss of 11.4 million for the same period in 2022. CASH POSITION AS OF JUNE 30, 2023 As of June 30, 2023, the Group's cash position was 16.8 million, compared to 14.6 million as of December 31, 2022. This increase comes from a 12 million financing obtained on June 9, 2023, from the Company's historical shareholders, Invus and Financiere de la Montagne and a new investor, Agenus Inc. The net proceeds of this reserved share issue are intended for the development of VIO-01 (formerly OX425), both clinically and industrially, for ongoing and future clinical trials and more generally, to finance the Company's current expenses. Following the completion of the capital increase, Invus Public Equities LP and Financiere de la Montagne held 28.5% and 19% of the Company's capital respectively, based on a total of 154,364,273 shares. Agenus held 11.5% of the Company's capital. These resources provide the Company with sufficient visibility to carry out its projects, including the expansion of the clinical development of AsiDNATM and the continuation of the preclinical development of the platONTM compounds, including VIO-01, until the second quarter of 2024. HIGHLIGHTS OF THE FIRST HALF OF 2023 AND RECENT DEVELOPMENTS AsiDNATM In the United States, the multi-center Phase 1b/2 study evaluating the safety and efficacy of AsiDNATM in combination with the PARP inhibitor Olaparib in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer, breast cancer and metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer who have progressed despite initial treatment with PARP inhibitors was initiated in December 2022, and is currently ongoing, with 1 patient enrolled in the study. The plan is to continue enrollment in the dose escalation phase until the third quarter 2023, convene a Safety Monitoring Committee (SMC) to review the data and identify dose for expansion. In addition, during the first half of the year 2023, Valerio Therapeutics continued supporting two investigator induced studies conducted in collaboration with two academic research centers of excellence in oncology: The Revocan phase 1b/2 trial evaluating the addition of AsiDNA to combat PARP inhibitor resistance in second-line maintenance treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer. Gustave Roussy is the promoter of this study. The pace of recruitment has been slower than expected and 15 patients have been enrolled in this first part of the study. The first interim analysis of 10 patients was conducted in the first half of 2023, showing a Disease Control Rate (DCR) of 70 %, an overall reduction in the percentage of CA125 (tumor marker) in responding patients, which serves as a proof of concept of the treatment with AsiDNATM The Phase 1b/2 trial evaluating AsiDNATM in combination with radiotherapy in recurrent high-grade glioma in children, an indication with a particularly poor prognosis. The Institut Curie is the sponsor of this study, which is supported by a grant from the European Fight Kids Cancer program. The Company has announced the treatment of a first patient in August 2022, 7 patients were enrolled in this first part of the study, no data from the study has been disclosed yet. VIO-01 (formerly OX425) During the first half of 2023, the Company continued to optimize the OX400 pan-DDR DNA decoy family to improve its action on repair proteins, involved in the tumor DNA repair cascade, and its activation of the antitumor immune response via the cGAS-STING pathway. VIO-01, formerly OX425, is a Pan-DDR DNA Decoy Targeting Multiple Proteins Repair Pathways and represents the most optimal drug candidate selected to enter preclinical development. VIO-01 traps several DDR Proteins Inhibiting Different DNA Repair Pathways. VIO-01 reaches the nucleus and acts as a decoy for several DNA repair enzymes. It has an increased resistance to nucleases and plasmatic stability. Valerio Therapeutics presented new preclinical data confirming the pan-DDR DNA decoy effect of VIO-01 and the high anti-tumor activity in tumor models independently from the homologous recombination repair status on April 19, 2023, at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting. Also, the Company presented new preclinical data confirming VIO-01's capability to abrogate several DNA repair pathways and induce a drug-driven synthetic lethality, without the need of a combined treatment. 3rd generation of PlatONTM platform Valerio Therapeutics continued to optimize the PlatON platform to develop more potent assets coupled to innovative technologies, with the objective to combine PlaTON platform's DNA decoys with the targeted protein degradation strategy offered by PROTACs (PROteolysis-TArgeting Chimeras) technology. PROTACs technology and other tumor specific targeting options may be a novel class of heterobifunctional molecules that can selectively degrade target proteins within cells. This approach offers several advantages over the other molecules involved in modulating the DNA damage response, such as increased selectivity and reduced toxicity. This specific strategy involves generating DecoyTAC combining our vectorized DNA decoy molecules capable of efficient cell penetration with a linker+E3 ligand promoting the complete degradation of the target proteins, thereby presenting a novel mechanism of action. The exploration of the convergence of PROTACs and DNA Decoys aims to not only propose new therapeutic modalities against DDR proteins but also against transcription factor proteins that are challenging to target. Through these efforts, the Company strive to advance the field of oncology drug development and contribute to the treatment of cancer patients. Governance and Corporate The Annual General Meeting of June 6, 2023, renewed the terms of Financiere de la Montagne, represented by Mr. Nicolas Trebouta, and Robert Coleman as directors for three years. As of the date of this report, the Board of Directors is composed of 7 members, 6 men and 1 woman, including 3 independent members. The Annual General Meeting also approved the change of company name to Valerio Therapeutics. This name change was accompanied by a new identity designed to better represent Valerio Therapeutics' ability to rapidly advance breakthrough therapeutic candidates through Phase 2 development, and to collaborate with partners for further development and commercialization. The ISIN code remained unchanged. OUTLOOK In 2023, the Company will continue to pursue its value creation strategy based on the development of its therapeutic innovations up to proof-of-concept studies in humans, and then generate revenues through agreements with other pharmaceutical companies capable of pursuing their development. AsiDNA Enrollment to continue in the U.S. phase 1b/2 trial in combination with Olaparib in ovarian, breast and prostate cancers to identify the RP2D in combination with Olaparib. Clinical updates expected in the second half of 2023 from phase 1b/2 trials conducted in France and European Union under the sponsorship of academic centers: REVOCAN trial with Gustave Roussy; Pediatric trial in High-Grade Glioma with Institut Curie; Submissions for publications in international scientific journals of the results of preclinical or clinical studies as part of the development plan to demonstrate the potential of AsiDNA. VIO-01 (formerly OX425) Finalization of the IND-enabling preclinical studies. Preparation of an IND application with the FDA in second half-year 2023. platON Continued evaluation and optimization of PlatONTM platform and potential new drug candidates. The 2023 half-year financial report is available on the Company's website. About Valerio Therapeutics Valerio Therapeutics (Euronext Growth Paris) is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing innovative oncology drugs targeting tumor DNA-binding functions through unique mechanisms of action in the sought-after field of DNA Damage Response (DDR). The Company is focused on bringing early-stage first-in-class or disruptive compounds from translational research to clinical proof-of-concept, a value-creating inflection point appealing to potential partners.. platON is Valerio Therapeutics's proprietary chemistry platform of DNA decoy therapeutics, which generates new innovative compounds and broaden the Company's product pipeline. AsiDNA, the first compound from platON, is a highly differentiated, clinical-stage first-in-class candidate in the field of DNA damage response (DDR) applied to oncology. Its DNA decoy therapeutic mechanism acting upstream of multiple DDR pathways results in distinctive antitumor properties, including the ability to prevent or abrogate tumor resistance to targeted therapies such as PARP inhibitors and strong synergy with tumor DNA-damaging agents such as radio-chemotherapy. AsiDNA is currently being studied in Europe and the US in combination with other treatment modalities in difficult-to-treat solid tumors. VIO-01 (formerly OX425), the second compound from platON, is a novel pan-DDR Decoy with high antitumor activity. It also mediates multiple immunostimulatory effects by activating the STING pathway. OX425 is currently undergoing IND-enabling preclinical development. For further information, please visit www.valeriotx.com. Forward looking statements This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning Valerio Therapeutics and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of Valerio Therapeutics to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Valerio Therapeutics is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. For a discussion of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of Valerio Therapeutics to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, please refer to the risk factors described in the most recent Company's registration document or in any other periodic financial report and in any other press release, which are available free of charge on the websites of the Company Group (https://valeriotx.com/) and/or the AMF (www.amf-france.org). APPENDIX CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AT JUNE 30, 2023 Consolidated balance sheet ASSETS (in thousands ) June 30, 2023 December 31, 2022 Note Non-current assets Intangible assets 20,531 20,531 4 Property, plant and equipment 774 794 Rights of use 872 1,093 5 Other financial assets 240 90 Total non-current assets 22,417 22,507 Current assets Trade receivables and related accounts 1,473 6.1 Other current receivables 4,777 4,521 6.2 Cash and cash equivalents 16,826 14,586 7 Total current assets 21,603 20,579 TOTAL ASSETS 44,020 43,086 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (in thousands of ) June 30, 2023 December 31, 2022 Note Shareholders' equity Capital 38,591 27,877 8.1 Less: Treasury shares -97 -81 8.2 Additional paid-in capital 28,991 27,705 8.3 Retained earnings -32,666 -13,669 Result -11,644 -19,562 Total shareholders' equity 23,176 22,270 Non-current liabilities Non-current provisions 764 869 9.1 Deferred tax liability Non-current financial debts 7,547 8,104 9.2 Non-current lease liabilities 450 646 9.2 Other non-current liabilities 4,048 Total non-current liabilities 8,762 13,667 Current liabilities Current provisions 20 Short-term borrowings and financial liabilities 1,212 1,003 10.1 Current lease liabilities 327 335 Trade payables and related accounts 4,388 3,449 10.2 Other current liabilities 6,155 2,342 10.3 Total current liabilities 12,082 7,149 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 44,020 43,086 Consolidated statement of comprehensive income In thousands of June 30, 2023 June 30, 2022 Note Recurring revenue from license agreements Non-recurring revenue from license agreements Total revenues 0 0 11.1 Purchases consumed -219 -242 Personnel expenses -5,011 -4,258 11.2 External expenses -6,128 -4,652 11.3 Taxes -28 -25 Net depreciation and provisions -111 -237 Other current operating expenses -127 -217 Operating expenses -11,622 -9,631 Other current operating income 28 282 Recurring operating income -11,594 -9,348 Other operating income 0 385 Other operating expenses -417 0 Share of profit from equity affiliates Operating income after share of profit from equity affiliates -11,593 -8,963 Cost of net financial debt -14 -2,154 Other financial income 10 122 Other financial expenses -46 -416 Financial income -50 -2,448 12 Income before tax -11,644 -11,412 Income tax expense 0 -59 - of which deferred tax Net income of all consolidated accounts -11,644 -11,471 Earnings per share -0.08 -0.11 13 In thousands of June 30, 2023 June 30, 2022 Note Earnings for the period -11,644 -11,471 Translation differences 133 113 Other items that can be reclassified to profit or loss 133 113 Actuarial gains and losses 93 Other items that cannot be reclassified to profit or loss 93 Other comprehensive income for the period, net of tax 133 207 Total comprehensive income for the period -11,511 -11,264 Total comprehensive income attributable to: owners of parent non-controlling interests -11,511 -11,264 Consolidated statement of net cash flows In thousands of Note June 30, 2023 December 31, 2022 June 30, 2022 Consolidated net income -11,644 -19,562 -11,471 +/- Net depreciation and provisions (excluding those related to current assets) 4, 5, 9.1 125 -167 48 -/+ Unrealized gains and losses related to changes in fair value 174 +/- Income and expenses calculated in relation to stock options and similar instruments 8.4 270 213 219 -/+ Other calculated income and expenses 724 -/+ Capital gains and losses on disposals -/+ Dilution gains and losses +/- Share of profit from equity affiliates +/- Other items with no impact on cash Cash flow from operations after cost of net financial debt and tax -11,249 -18,792 -11,029 Cost of gross financial debt 12 42 2,189 2,157 +/- Tax expense (including deferred taxes) 285 59 Cash flow from operations before cost of net financial debt and tax -11,207 -16,318 -8,813 Tax paid +/- Change in operating working capital requirements (including employee benefit liabilities) 2,087 -6,875 7,368 NET CASH FLOW PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES -9,120 -9,443 -1,446 Disbursements related to acquisitions of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets -97 -488 -71 Cash receipts related to disposals of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets Disbursements related to acquisitions of financial assets (non-consolidated shares) Cash receipts related to disposals of financial assets (non-consolidated shares) 80 3 +/- Impact of changes in the scope of consolidation Dividends received (equity affiliates, non-consolidated shares) +/- Change in loans and advances granted Investment grants received +/- Other flows related to investment operations NET CASH FLOW USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES -97 -409 -68 Sums received from shareholders on capital increases Paid by the shareholders of the parent company 8.1 12,000 7,875 7,961 Paid by minority shareholders of consolidated companies Amounts received on exercise of stock options -/+ Net repurchases and resales of own shares 8.2 99 37 Cash inflow from new loans Loan repayments (including finance leases) 9.2, 10.1 -550 1,513 2,343 Of which reimbursement of rights of use (IFRS16) -166 -405 -238 +/- Other flows related to financing operations -7 1 3 NET CASH FLOW USED IN FINANCING ACTIVITIES 11,443 6,463 10,343 +/- Impact of foreign exchange rate changes 12 87 144 CHANGE IN NET CASH FLOW 2,238 -3,301 8,974 INITIAL CASH FLOW 14,585 17,886 17,886 FINAL CASH FLOW 16,823 14,585 26,861 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928112317/en/ Contacts: Valerio Therapeutics Investor Relations investors@valeriotx.com +33 1 45 58 76 00 Media Relations Arthur Rouille NewCap valeriotx@newcap.eu +33 1 44 71 94 98 Investor Relations Strategic Communication Dusan Oresansky Nicolas Fossiez NewCap valeriotx@newcap.eu +33 1 44 71 94 92 The Company secured a $20M senior secured credit facility Store profits increased by 106% to $58,664 Sales increased by 70% to $8,933,940 Gross profits increased by 205% to $1,666,231 Product gross margins increased by 2.1% to 40.8% Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - PesoRama Inc. (TSXV: PESO) ("PesoRama" or the "Company"), a Canadian company operating dollar stores in Mexico under the JOi Canadian Stores brand, today announced its financial results for the second quarter ended July 31, 2023 ("Q2 2023"). All financial figures are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted. "As the only true dollar store company in Mexico, we are constantly innovating and pushing the boundaries of what is possible," said Erica Fattore, President & CEO of PesoRama. "Creating a new market space requires strategic thinking, operational excellence, and execution, which is reflected in this quarter's results. During Q2 2023, we saw a significant increase in-store traffic of 18.3%, and our average ticket grew by 4.8% over Q2 2022. We attribute this to the success of our unique merchandising strategies, product assortment, and overall customer experience. Our JOi Dollar Plus Stores are increasing in popularity as we continue to expand our footprint and raise the bar in our market. We believe we have the winning strategy and we are meeting the needs of the cost-conscious shopper in an underserved market that will ultimately drive long-term value for our shareholders. We have big ambitions and will continue to think outside the box to set ourselves apart." Key Financial Highlights: Q2 2024 vs Q2 2023 Multi-price points continue to lead to increased product assortment and increased growth of new product categories across all departments. Store profits increased by 106% to $58,664 for the six-months ended July 31, 2023, an increase of $990,303 from the six months ended July 31, 2022. Total sales increased by 70% to $8,933,940 due to organic growth of previously opened stores as well as sales from new stores which opened in April 2022, May 2022 and December 2022. Gross profits increased by $1,666,231 to $2,477,087, primarily driven by an increase in revenue of 70% compared to an increase in cost of sales of only 45%. Product gross margins increased by 2.1% from $2,034,339 or 38.7% to $3,644,695 or 40.8% due primarily to an increase in revenue for higher prices items resulting from the introduction of the multi-price strategy and assortment mix. Other Performance Metrics: Q2 2024 vs Q2 2023 Sales units increased by 27% as a result of increase in demand, increased product assortment and mix Same store sales increased by 35% in Q2 2023 compared to Q2 2022 Average ticket increased by 4.8% This earnings news release should be read in conjunction with the Company's condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the three-month period ending April 30, 2023, which can be found on PesoRama's issuer profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. In addition, further to its press release of July 4, 2023, the Company has settled an aggregate of $546,191 of indebtedness owed to certain non-arm's length creditors of the Company through the issuance of an aggregate of 2,482,684 common shares ("Common Shares") of the Company at a deemed price of $0.22 per Common Share (the "Debt Settlement"). The Debt Settlement received approved from disinterested shareholders at its annual and special shareholder meeting held on August 8, 2023. All securities issued in connection with the Debt Settlement are subject to a statutory hold period of four months plus a day from the date of issuance in accordance with applicable securities legislation. The Debt Settlement constitutes a "related party transaction" as defined in Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"), as insiders of the Company were issued an aggregate of 2,482,684 Common Shares. The Company is relying on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(b) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, as the Company is not listed on a specified market and the fair market value of the Common Shares being issued to insiders in connection with the Debt Settlement does not exceed 25% of the market capitalization of the Company, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. A material change report was not filed less than 21 days before the closing date of the Debt Settlement. This shorter period was reasonable and necessary in the circumstances, as it was necessary for the Company to obtain disinterested shareholder approval for the Debt Settlement and the Debt Settlement will improve the financial position of the Company upon closing. About PesoRama Inc. PesoRama, operating under the JOi Canadian Stores brand, is a Mexican value dollar store retailer. PesoRama launched operations in 2019 in Mexico City and the surrounding areas targeting high density, high traffic locations. PesoRama's 21 stores offer consistent merchandise offerings which include items in the following categories: household goods, pet supplies, seasonal products, party supplies, health and beauty, snack food items, confectionery and more. For further information please contact: Rahim Bhaloo Founder & Executive Chairman rahim@rahimbhaloo.com 416-816-3291 Erica Fattore President & Chief Executive Officer erica@joi.mx Alyssa Barry Investor Relations investors@pesorama.ca Non-IFRS Measures There are measures included in this news release that do not have a standardized meaning under international financial reporting standards (IFRS) and therefore may not be comparable to similarly titled measures and metrics presented by other publicly traded companies. The Company includes these measures because it believes certain investors use them as a means of assessing financial performance. Adjusted gross margin, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are financial measures that do not have a standardized meaning under IFRS. EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA refers to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, stock-based compensation, one-time transaction expenses and financing costs. Adjusted gross margin is defined as gross profit plus distribution costs divided by sales. We prepare and release quarterly unaudited and annual audited financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS. We also disclose and discuss certain non-GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) financial information used to evaluate our performance in this and other earnings releases and investor conference calls as a complement to results provided in accordance with IFRS. We believe that current shareholders and potential investors in the Company use non-GAAP financial measures, such as adjusted gross margin, EBITDA, and adjusted EBITDA in making investment decisions about the Company and measuring its operational results. Management believes that investors and financial analysts measure our business on the same basis, and we are providing the adjusted gross margin, operating profit, EBITDA, and adjusted EBITDA as financial metrics to assist in this evaluation and to provide a higher level of transparency into how we measure our own business. Adjusted EBITDA is more fully defined and discussed, and reconciliation to IFRS financial measures is provided, in Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") for the three-month period ended April 30, 2023. Cautionary Note This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including, among other things, statements regarding the Company's planned expansion, new store openings and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate. While the Company believes that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Readers are cautioned to not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements, including due to changes in consumer behaviour, general economic factors, the ability of the Company to execute its strategies, the availability of capital and the risk factors which are discussed in greater detail in the "Risk Factors" section of the Company's prospectus dated January 31, 2022 and filed under the Company's profile on www.sedarplus.ca. The statements in this press release are made as of the date of this release. PesoRama undertakes no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third-parties in respect of PesoRama, its securities, or its financial or operating results (as applicable). Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/182286 In diesem Report stellen wir Ihnen 3 Top-Aktien aus dem Energie-Sektor vor, die Sie unbedingt auf Ihre Watchlist setzen mussen. Lassen Sie sich diese kostenlose Analyse nicht entgehen! FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich., Sept. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Concrete Institute along with the ACI Saudi Chapter will co-host the ACI Concrete Conference of Codes, Standards, and Best Practices in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on November 28-29, 2023. The 2-day conference will be held at the Hilton Riyadh Hotel, 6623 Eastern Ring Rd, Ghirnatah, Riyadh 13241, Saudi Arabia and will bring together engineers, architects, researchers, suppliers, producers, and academics to exchange their experiences and discuss innovative and emerging technologies in the concrete industry. It will also explore how niche construction methods, new products, and research are developing concrete innovations to stretch mankind's imagination on the various uses of concrete. 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. Kamino Retail, a Paris, France-based tech company providing retail media solutions, raised 1.25M in Pre-Seed funding. 50 Partners and Better Angle funds participated in the round, alongside several serial French investors. The company intends to use the funds for R&D recruitment and the launch of new platform features. Led by Elie Aboucaya, Samir Daoud and Emmanuel Valette, Kamino Retail provides a platform with a suite of solutions for retailers to enable their Retail Media monetization programs to reach their full potential. The platform features innovative ad units, effective targeting, relevant reporting, improved workflow, simplified integration, and API connectors. FinSMEs 28/09/2023 The most crucial aspect of nomadism is that it is accessible to anyone: You can become a digital nomad whether youre young or elderly, single or married, employed or self-employed. If working from home interests you, here is some information to get you started: Step 1: Decide Where You Want to Go Which is a more desirable destination: Indonesia or Iceland? There are two options available: Portugal and Panama. Before beginning your adventure as a digital nomad, it is vital to give some thought to the kinds of environments that would be most conducive to meeting your requirements and fulfilling your preferences. To places you may legally visit Pick a place that is within the law first and foremost. Ive included some fundamentals below, but since every situation is unique, youll want to dig further and maybe even talk to a professional if you have questions regarding passport requirements, visas, health insurance, taxes, or anything else related to the law. To go internationally, youll need a passport. Be sure to double-check the expiration date well in advance of your trip in case you need to renew it. In some cases, a visa will be necessary depending on your final destination and the duration of your stay. The visa requirements vary by country, with some requiring merely a tourist visa and others requiring a work visa. Travelers to some nations are required to carry medical coverage, either international or local. Be well-protected before you get there to avoid hassles. Taxes: Most tax policies are not created with telecommuters in mind. Even if you plan to travel extensively throughout the European Union, you are still required to establish a Tax Residency. Your tax situation may change depending on whether you are considered a full-time, independent, or contract worker. As a digital nomad, you have responsibilities to your employer that you must fulfill. A secure haven for you You should still take extra precautions, even if you are able to legally visit and work in a specific location. There is always risk when you travel. You should be cognizant of the challenges you may encounter because of your gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, political beliefs, or other personal attributes. That means learning the relevant laws and customs, as well as maybe consulting with people you know who have been there before. You can always talk to professionals like movers near Boston at least to get a piece of advice, since these guys certainly traveled a lot. You need to go somewhere Once youve established whats lawful and what isnt, you can start having fun: Where do you propose we travel, exactly? How about days at the beach, on the hills, or in the city? A place where you are proficient, where you can get by with minimal preparation, or where communication may be more challenging? How about describing your favorite or least favorite meal? Need a certain kind of fun or socializing? This is a matter of opinion, and there is no proper answer. Step 2: Win Over Your Manager You are interested in trying digital nomadism but need assurance that you may do it legally and safely. Your next step is to win over your superiors (whether they be in an official capacity or just clientele). Constructing a Defense of Telework Consider whether or not remote work is an option for your current position. Dont rush into your managers office or send an urgent email if you think it might be. If you want to convince your boss and other important coworkers, youll need to come prepared with an argument and a plan. encouraging remote work arrangements Step 3: Be Observant and Careful There are several factors to think about while planning for your success as a digital nomad, including safety, legality, and the ability to accomplish your job. Plan the strategic and logistical steps youll need to take to fulfill your individual and professional goals once you know when and where youre traveling. Workspace Before leaving, ensure that your entire tech stack is compatible with operating in a foreign country, and include extra gadgets and chargers just in case. Every job (and individual) has different requirements, so its important to think about what youll need to do a good job before deciding what you can bring to the table. Internet To be a digital nomad, most people need reliable Internet. If your accommodations Wi-Fi isnt working, you can do a simulated live speed test or check out the coworking spaces and cafes around you. To protect your data when using public Wi-Fi in cafes, airports, and other public locations, get a local SIM card for calling and data access. Money Lost your money or had your credit card stolen? What are your plans? Without a plan of action, being in this situation might be stressful. Find out whether your bank has any limits on your journey, acquire a secure card, or bring some emergency cash. You can also see if Apple Pay or Alipay are widely accepted in your location, which will save you money on ATM fees. Additional health insurance may be desirable over and beyond what is required by law. Some companies now cater to digital nomads and frequent fliers by offering them special health and travel insurance packages. If you need access to English-speaking physicians or specialized care, youll need to do your own research to make sure those needs are satisfied. If you need refills on prescription medications, make sure local pharmacies can handle them and bring plenty with you. Keep in mind that even commonplace, over-the-counter items in your native country may be difficult to get in another, and pack accordingly. Fourth, Join a Group Considering the legal and logistical considerations, digital nomadism may appear daunting. On the other hand, one of the most significant (and rarely discussed) drawbacks of such a way of life is the increased risk of feeling lonely and alone. Step 5. Travelers have a responsibility to mitigate any negative impact they may have on the local environment. To help the community, reduce your carbon impact, and collaborate with locals. When executed properly, digital nomadism may be a potent tool. Recognizing that digital nomads may be beneficial to local economies, some nations are introducing additional permits and incentives to attract and retain distant workers. There is a risk that digital nomads would use co-living and co-working spaces as a way to abuse local communities if they are not actively engaged with locals. Veteran actor Michael Gambon, who was known to many for his portrayal of Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore in six of the eight Harry Potter films, has died, his publicist said Thursday. He was 82. A statement by his family, issued by his publicist, said he died following a bout of pneumonia. We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon. Beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, his family said. No matter what role he took on in a career that lasted more than five decades, Gambon was always instantly recognizable by the deep and drawling tones of his voice. He was cast as the much-loved Dumbledore after the death of his predecessor, Richard Harris, in 2002. He once acknowledged not having read any of J. K. Rowlings best-selling books, arguing that it was safer to follow the script rather than be too influenced by the books. That didnt prevent him from embodying the spirit of Professor Dumbledore, the powerful wizard who fought against evil to protect his students. Although the Potter role raised Gambons international profile and introduced him to a new generation of fans, he had long been recognized as one of Britains leading actors. His work spanned TV, theater and radio, and he starred in dozens of films from Gosford Park to The Kings Speech and the animated family movie Paddington. Gambon was knighted for services to drama in 1998. Born in Ireland on Oct. 19, 1940, Gambon was raised in London and originally trained as an engineer, following in the footsteps of his father. He made his theater debut in a production of Othello in Dublin. In 1963 he got his first big break with a minor role in Hamlet, the National Theatre Companys opening production, under the directorship of the legendary Laurence Olivier. Gambon soon became a distinguished stage actor and received critical acclaim for his leading performance in Life of Galileo directed by John Dexter. He was frequently nominated for awards and won the Laurence Olivier award 3 times and the Critics Circle Theatre Awards twice. A multi-talented actor, Gambon was also the recipient of four coveted British Academy of Film and Television Arts awards for his television work. He became a household name in Britain after his lead role in the 1986 BBC series The Singing Detective, written by Dennis Potter and considered a classic of British television drama. Gambon won the BAFTA for best actor for the role. Gambon was versatile as an actor but once told the BBC of his preference for playing villainous characters. He played gangster Eddie Temple in the British crime thriller Layer Cake a review of the film by the New York Times referred to Gambon as reliably excellent and a Satanic crime boss in Peter Greenaways The Cook, The Thief, His Wife and Her Lover. He also had a part as King George V in the 2010 drama film The Kings Speech. In 2015 he returned to the works of J.K. Rowling, taking a leading role in the TV adaptation of her book The Casual Vacancy. Gambon retired from the stage in 2015 after struggling to remember his lines in front of an audience due to his advancing age. He once told the Sunday Times Magazine: Its a horrible thing to admit, but I cant do it. It breaks my heart. The actor was always protective when it came to his private life. He married Anne Miller and they had one son, Fergus. He later had two sons with set designer Philippa Hart. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Language: Hindi Director: Vivek Agnihotri Cast: Nana Patekar, Pallavi Joshi, Raima Sen, Anupam Kher, Nivedita Bhattacharya Sapthami Gowda, Vivek Agnihotris lens not merely captured the chaos and despair; his film was a spotlight on the resilience of humanity, the spirit of innovation and the power of unity. In a world where countries struggled to find solutions, The Vaccine War showcased Indias remarkable journey from crisis to recovery. The best thing about The Vaccine War is that being Indias first bio-science film, a lot of time was spent on research and in trying to show the trials over mice and monkeys in NIV (National Institute of Virology) labs. There was no effort made by Agnihotri to glamorize the film. And that is a big plus point for a bio-science movie. But somewhere I feel the filmmaker has been very opinionated like his previous projects. Making Rohini Sigh Dhulia ((Raima Sen) a science journalist look like a villain in the film and pointing figures at the media for miss-reporting was done in bad taste. The Vaccine War has pointed a very harsh finger at the media, which could have been done in a subtle way. It was like generalising media for armchair journalism and fake reportage. Not all journalists work or produce stories like the way it is shown. They too go to the field and risk their lives to get accurate information. Most journalists during the COVID times were covering the human side of the pandemic. And mind you, there were many who lost their lives too during COVID and the war against the virus. This could have been balanced in the right way which Vivek Agnihotri clearly didnt. Here, I am not denying the efforts of the scientists, they definitely did a great job, but in the process of highlighting their efforts, demeaning the media is not right. Some parts of the projection of the media in the film that I agree upon is that many of the influencers and Youtubers with no background of journalism or science had spread the narrative that our Indigenous vaccine is substandard. This is the problem with todays media, when celebrities and influencers pretend to know it all and the saddest part is with their fan following and bought followers they create a narrative of their own and most importantly, a narrative that suits them. Again, I feel that the maker of the film should have made a clear demarcation that they are not the real journalists, they are just a bunch of content creators who want to be heard and seen for their personal motives. The Vaccine War is no doubt a very scientific and bold movie by Vivek Agnihotri which is made with near to accurate facts and figures. It is informative which tells the tales of the real heroes, the scientists who made the Covaxin. There were a lot of things we were not aware of, especially the efforts made by our scientists to make the first Indigenous COVID-19 Vaccine. The film begins with the lockdown to the creation of the first Indigenous vaccine. The entire film has been shown in 12 chapters, starting from the lockdown to the making of the vaccine. Now coming to Nana Patekar, his comeback performance as a no-nonsense scientist was brilliant. Known for his craft, Patekar has completely nailed the role of ICMR Chief Balram Bhargava. He has shown how toxic the work environment can get. Playing the role of a completely toxic boss who doesnt acknowledge the efforts of his juniors, he was able to bring out the true emotions of the character. He is a man with an old school thought process that if you appreciate the work of the juniors, they might stop working and believes in pushing his subordinates so that they achieve their goals fast. Not a bad human being, but a little too harsh and stingy when it comes to appreciating the efforts of the juniors. Balram Bhargava is a workaholic who doesnt allow his people to get back home on time and doesnt hesitate to call up at all odd hours, he is truly a man who is going to help you out when others are pointing fingers at you and that is clearly evident in the press conference conducted by the scientists. He believes and says in the film that if you are not able to set fire to the tail of the rocket and send it into the sky, you will have no idea of what we have done! Rating: 3 out of 5 The Vaccine War releases in theatres on September 28. 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. In a post-MeToo world, consent is important. However, there are many complexities to it. One of those complexities is age. And thats the issue that has been making headlines across the country. There has been a growing clamour in Indian society about reduce the age of consent in the nation. The matter of age of consent has only become more pronounced with the Law Commission submitting its report on the same to the law ministry on Wednesday. Some reports state that the 22nd Law Commission in its report has opposed reducing the age of consent in India from 18 to 16 under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. An official, who is aware of the developments, was quoted as telling New Indian Express: The Commission made several recommendations in the report. The panel is not in favour of lowering the minimum age of consent from 18 to 16 under the POCSO Act. As the debate rages, we take a look at the law, why people have been asking to lower the age of consent and whats the situation in other countries. Age of consent, explained Before we deep dive into the reasons why many have been asking for a change in the age of consent, lets understand what it means. In India, under the POCSO Act, all sexual activity under the age of 18 is considered a crime, even if there was consent between the two parties. Incidentally, until November 2012, the age of consent was 16 and was only raised to 18 after the law came into act. The law says any sexual activity with or without the womans consent when she is below 18 constitutes rape. Anyone below 18 is considered incapable of giving consent. Calls to lower the age of consent With the passage of time, however, activists and eminent jurists have seen a flaw in the matter and have asked that the age of consent be reduced to 16. Last December, the Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud appealed to Parliament to have a relook at the issue of age of consent, stating it posed difficulties for judges examining cases of consensual sex involving adolescents. In my time as a judge, I have observed that this category of case poses difficult questions for judges across the spectrum. There is a growing concern surrounding this issue which must be considered by the Legislature, the CJI said while addressing a national stakeholders consultation on the POCSO Act, which completed 10 years. In June this year, the Madhya Pradesh High Court had a similar request. Justice Deepak Kumar Agarwal urged the government to reduce the age of consent to 16 to avoid the injustice of adolescent boys being treated as criminals. Nowadays, every male or female near the age of 14 years, due to social media awareness and easily accessible internet connectivity, is getting puberty at an early age, the judge said. Boys and girls are getting attracted to each other owing to this early puberty, he said, ultimately resulting in consensual physical relationships. In these cases, male persons are not at all criminal. It is only a matter of age when they come into contact with female and develop physical relationships, he said. A month later, even the Bombay High Court chimed in. A single bench of Justice Bharati Dangre in a 10 July judgment expressed concern over the increasing number of criminal cases under provisions of the POCSO Act. She noted that the age of consent was probably one of the highest ages globally. Sexual autonomy encompasses both, the right to engage in wanted sexual activity and right to be protected from unwanted sexual aggression. Only when both aspects of adolescents rights are recognised, human sexual dignity can be considered to be fully respected, said the High Court. Even in 2019, while overturning the conviction of a teenager, the Madras High Courts Justice V Parthiban said that a relationship amongst minors or minors with young adults was not unnatural but a result of natural biological attraction and recommended a revision of the age of consent. A case to lower age of consent But wont lowering the age of consent to 16 be more detrimental to teenagers in India? Not exactly, says the data and even activists. Many argue that by not reducing the age of consent, India is being ignorant to societal realities, which results in criminalising adolescent sexuality rather than focusing only on child sexual abuse. Activists argue that the authorities have to wake up to the fact that Indias adolescent population is sexually active. And the data supports them. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) the most comprehensive survey of households by the government revealed that more than 39 per cent of women have had sex before they turned 18 and 10 per cent in the 25-49 age group said they had done so before they were 15. Child rights activists also argue that parents are using the criminal justice system to control girls sexuality. Enfold Proactive Health Trust, a child rights charity, revealed that 24.3 per cent of POCSO cases in Assam, Maharashtra and West Bengal in the years between 2016 and 2020 were romantic cases and that in 87.9 per cent of these cases, the girl victim admitted to being in a romantic relationship with the accused. The Quint has reported that a 2018 study by the Centre for the Child and the Law at National Law School of India University also revealed that romantic cases constituted over 20 per cent of cases in Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Maharashtra, and parts of Karnataka. But its a grey matter and there are many who believe that lowering the age of consent is a tricky and slippery proposition. Many argue that several victims admit to consensual relationships because of coercion, threat and influence by the accused. Some are also of the opinion that lowering the age of consent is support to pre-marital sex. Countries and age of consent While India continues its debate on lowering the age of consent, a vast majority of countries have their ages in the range of 14 to 16 years. Children as young as 14 are considered able to give consent to sex in Germany, Austria, Hungary, Italy, and Portugal. In England and Wales, it is 16 years. Earlier in June, Japan raised the age of consent from 13 to 16 years. It was the first change change to its criminal code on sexual offences in nearly a century. Countries such as the Philippines and Angola that have the lowest age of consent at 12 years. On the other end of the spectrum is Bahrain and South Korea that have set the age of consent at 21 and 20 respectively. With inputs from agencies Farmers are holding three-day rail roko protests in Punjab, starting today (28 September) over certain demands. The rail blockade was earlier announced by Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee (KMSC) general secretary Sarwan Singh Pandher after a meeting of representatives of 19 farmer unions. On Day 1 of the protest, members of farmer unions squatted on train tracks at 12 locations across Punjab including Moga, Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, Jalandhar, Tarn Taran, Sangrur, Patiala, Ferozepur, Bathinda, and Amritsar. Why are farmers protesting and what are their demands? Lets understand. Rail Roko in Punjab The 19 farmer unions from six North Indian states have organised rail roko in Punjab to press the Central government to meet their demands. Six farmers unions from Punjab have the backing of farmer bodies from Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, reported Indian Express. The main unions participating in the protest include the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, Bharti Kisan Union (Krantikari), BKU (Ekta Azaad), Azaad Kisan Committee Doaba, BKU (Behramke), BKU (Shaheed Bhagat Singh), and BKU (Chottu Ram), as per news agency PTI. According to The Quint report, a meeting was held between several farmers organisations and senior police officers from Punjab, Chandigarh and Haryana on 4 September. However, no definite conclusion could be reached leading to the ongoing protests. What are they demanding? The protesting unions have a number of demands, including a Rs 50,000 crore flood relief package for flood-affected people in north India, a legal guarantee for minimum support price (MSP) on all crops, and a debt waiver for farmers. Their other demands are 300 days of employment under MGNREGA and control of drug addiction, particularly in Punjab, reported Indian Express. Farmer leader Gurbachan Singh said in Amritsar that they also want government jobs for the family of each farmer who died during the yearlong agitation against the now-repealed three farm laws of the Centre, as per PTI. #WATCH | Punjab farmers to begin rail-roko protest at noon at Devi Dass Pura in Amritsar Sarwan Singh Pandher, general secretary, Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, Punjab says, Rail roko will begin across Punjab for three days today. There are many issues including the MSP pic.twitter.com/fqj2izYA2T ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2023 Speaking to Indian Express, Suresh Koth, president of Kisan Mazdoor Union of Haryana, said, We were to start the protest on 22 August in Chandigarh but much before that the Punjab Police arrested over 400 farm union leaders from Punjab and Haryana to prevent us from reaching Chandigarh. Not only this, one farmer Pritam Singh had also been crushed under the tyres of a tractor in the Longowal area of Sangrur district of Punjab when farmers were on their way to a toll plaza to protest. Singh had died in the clash between farmers and the police at Longowal on 21 August. We are warning the Punjab government not to mess with us again, they need to remember that Punjab farmers are not alone but their Haryana brothers are with them, Koth was quoted as saying by the newspaper. ALSO READ: Why 55,000 farmers are protesting at Delhis Ramlila Maidan Whats affected? According to KMSC president Satnam Singh Pannu, the farmer unions are blocking trains at Batala railway stations in Gurdaspur, Jalandhar Cantonment in Jalandhar, Tarn Taran railway station in Tarn Taran, Sunam in Sangrur, Nabha in Patiala, Basti Tankwali and Mallanwala in Firozpur, Rampura in Bathinda, Devidaspura in Amritsar, Moga, Hoshiarpur, reported Indian Express. The agitation will continue till continue till 30 September. KMSC president Pannu told Indian Express, The Bhagwant Mann government should avoid anti-people activities. Apart from the demands mentioned above, our other issues are the quashing of police cases lodged during the agitation against farm laws at Delhi borders and punishment for the Lakhimpur incident. We are also demanding that six times the price of the land should be given for the land to be acquired for roads under the Bharatmala project across the country. Eight people, including four farmers, had died in violence that erupted in Uttar Pradeshs Lakhimpur Kheri in 2021. Another recent rail roko Last week, around 100 farmers staged a rail roko protest in western Maharashtras Sangli district over the acquisition of land by the Railways. The Kolhapur-Gondia Maharashtra Express was stopped for over four hours in Bhilwadi-Nandre section in Palus tehsil due to the protest. The farmers wanted the Railways to acquire their additional land. They also demanded that Railways build a road and drainage for them, reported PTI. With inputs from agencies Ilhan Omar is a controversial figure in the United States. The Congresswoman has a dubious record and often wades into trouble. She also has another habit meddling in Indias affairs. She has gained notoriety for her anti-India antics and has angered New Delhi on more occasions than one. Now she has something to say about the India-Canada diplomatic row. No surprises for guessing what side she has picked (even when its none of her business). We take a look at her latest remarks and how she has emerged as an anti-India voice in the US, often leaving her government red-faced. The Nijjar killing The Muslim-American Democrat has condemned the killing of Khalistan terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, days after Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau said that the Indian government agents were involved. New Delhi labelled the allegations absurd as ties with Ottawa hit a new low. Amid this, Omar has decided to step in. In a tweet on the X platform (formerly Twitter), the lawmaker appealed to the US federal government to support Canadas probe into Nijjars death. The allegations that Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Niijar was assassinated by the Indian government are deeply concerning. The US must fully support the Canadian investigation, Omar said. We are also requesting a briefing on whether there are similar operations in the United States, she added. The allegations that Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Niijar was assassinated by the Indian government are deeply concerning. The US must fully support the Canadian investigation. We are also requesting a briefing on whether there are similar operations in the United States. Rep. Ilhan Omar (@Ilhan) September 26, 2023 Omars remarks come ahead of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankars meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington on Thursday. Her support for Nijjar has angered India and Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi has asked the external affairs ministry to immediately initiate an inquiry against the Congresswoman. In a sharp response, Chaturvedi wrote, Sit down Madam Representative. Such being the case, as an Indian Parliamentarian, I urge MEA India to start an enquiry into how an elected representative in the USA is interfering in the peace of Jammu & Kashmir via Pakistan-funded PoK visit. Sit down Madam Representative. Such be the case, as an Indian Parliamentarian I urge @MEAIndia to start an enquiry into how an elected representative in USA is interfering in the peace of Jammu&Kashmir via Pakistan funded PoK visit. https://t.co/cYV08xt0sD Priyanka Chaturvedi (@priyankac19) September 27, 2023 She was referring to Omars visit to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in 2022. The visit to Pok In April last year, Omar visited Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, a visit which was strongly condemned by India. She met Pakistan prime minister Shehnaz Sharif, former PM Imran Khan and the two reportedly discussed Islamaphobia. The move was seen as a tacit endorsement of Pakistan and its state support for terrorism in the region. India also saw the trip as a violation of its territorial integrity for narrow political gains. We have noted that US Representative Ilhan Omar has visited a part of the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir that is currently illegally occupied by Pakistan. If such a politician wishes to practice her narrow-minded politics at home, that may be her business. But violating our territorial integrity and sovereignty in its pursuit makes it ours. This visit is condemnable, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said last year. Washington too distanced itself from Omar, who said during her visit that Kashmir should get more attention from the US. Derek Chollet, the counsellor to Blinken, had told news agency ANI that it was an unofficial personal visit and it did not represent any policy change on behalf of the United States government. US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar called on Chairman PTI in Bani Gala. They discussed Islamophobia & related issues. @Ilhan expressed her admiration for @ImranKhanPTI & his position on & work against Islamophobia globally. IK appreciated her courageous & principled position on issues. pic.twitter.com/m3kPa2poYx Shireen Mazari (@ShireenMazari1) April 20, 2022 Anti-Modi remarks In April 2022, the Democrat demanded that the US review its security alliance with India in the Indo-Pacific region. How are we promoting a free and open (Indo-Pacific) region by supporting Modi? Omar asked in the House. How much does the Modi government have to criminalise the act of being Muslim in India for us to say something? She averred that the US government must do something about the genocide (of Muslims) thats taking place in India, according to a report in moneycontrol. Back home, she has been under fire for being intolerant towards Jews and has been accused of anti-Semitism. A resolution to condemn rights violations in India On 22 June 2022, Omar introduced a resolution to condemn human rights violations in India, specifically those targeting Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Dalits, Adivasis, and other religious and cultural minorities, as per a press release by her office. The resolution called on the US Secretary of State to designate India as a Country of Particular Concern under the International Religious Freedom Act, a move that can lead to economic sanctions in extreme cases. The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), a consultative government body, has been recommending this designation for the past three years, she said. Slamming Article 370 In 2019, the US lawmaker was overtly critical of the Modi governments decision to abrogate Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Following the lockdown and communications blackout imposed in Kashmir, she demanded the immediate restoration of communication. She also said that the US partnership with India based on values had been threatened due to the Modi governments Hindu nationalism project. Going after an Indian journalist At a US Congressional hearing on human rights in South Asia in the same year, the Democrat went after Indian journalist Aarti Tikoo Singh, accusing her of being partisan. Speaking at the US House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing on Human Rights in South Asia in Washington, Singh said that Kashmiri Muslims suffered from terror attacks by Pakistan-sponsored terrorists and this was overlooked by Western activists and the world media for years. She dubbed the hearing prejudiced, biased and a set-up against India in favour of Pakistan, reports NDTV. The 30 years of Islamic jihad and terror in Kashmir perpetrated by Pakistan has been completely ignored and overlooked by the world press, she said. The journalist had a war of words with Omar, who said she was making incredibly dubious claims. "Ms Singh, a reporters job is to find the objective truth about what is happening and report it to the public The press is at its worst when it is a mouthpiece for a government You also make the incredible dubious claim that the Indian government's crackdown in Kashmir is good for human rights. If it was good for human rights, Ms Singh, it wouldnt be happening in secret. Speaking up against NRC Omar voiced her opposition against the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam in October 2019. She asked whether the US government was taking up the NRC issue in a stronger way. Are we waiting for Muslims in Assam to be put in detention? She told the US congressional hearing then. In Assam, almost two million people are being asked to formally prove their citizenship Thereve been official statements to the effect that no Buddhist, Christian, Sikh or Jain refugees need to worry about their status, so this is clearly an anti-Muslim programme. With inputs from agencies Its been almost 10 days since Canadas prime minister Justin Trudeau alleged that India had a hand in the killing of Khalistani leader, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, back in June. Since then diplomatic ties between the two countries have deteriorated diplomats have been expelled from both sides, New Delhi has suspended visa services to all Canadians and theres a fear among the Indian diaspora residing there about the fallout. India has repeatedly refuted Canadas allegations, calling them absurd, with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar even saying that this was not the government of Indias policy and vowed to Ottawa that action would be taken if they provided specific information. But even as Canada continues to stick to its view that India was behind the murder of the Khalistani leader, theres a new twist; sources in the government have revealed that it was Pakistans spy agency the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) that orchestrated Nijjars killing. As the fallout continues, lets investigate this new angle. Pakistans hand in Nijjar killing? Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the chief of the banned group Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), was gunned down on 18 June outside a gurdwara in Surrey in Canadas British Colombia province. CCTV footage reviewed by the Washington Post has revealed moments leading to his shooting and the eventual murder of Nijjar. As per the American newspapers report, at least six men and two vehicles were involved in the killing. Revealing the incident, the newspaper adds that a white sedan suddenly pulled in front and blocked Nijjars pickup truck and two men in hooded sweatshirts appeared from a covered waiting area and pointed their firearms at the truck drivers seat, and then the sedan exited the parking lot. The two men then run in the same direction. According to community members, the unidentified assailants fired about 50 bullets, of which 34 hit the chief of the Khalistan Tiger Force. Now, while Canada blames India for this incident, government sources have revealed that the Pakistans ISI was behind the killing. News18 citing sources earlier reported that Rahat Rao and Tariq Kiyani are two ISI plants in Canada and the duo were tasked with the killing of Nijjar. The report further states that the two wanted to finish off Nijjar so that they could be in control of the drug and immigration business. And it wasnt just about the drug and immigration business, which is a huge source of income. The sources have also revealed that the ISI wanted Nijjar to lend support to gangsters who stepped on to Canadian soil in the last two years. However, the KTF chief was more inclined to supporting pro-Khalistanis, which put him at odds with the ISI agenda. Additionally, killing Nijjar would put a strain on Indo-Canadian ties, which is a definite win-win for the Pakistan spy agency. And it doesnt stop there. It has been reported that the ISI is now actively looking for a replacement for Nijjar and is in the process of mobilising more terrorists within Canada. Also read: India-Canada row: Is Pakistans ISI funding Khalistani groups? The role of Pakistans ISI has been under the scanner since the diplomatic standoff began. Earlier, the Outlook citing intelligence sources had reported that ISI agents in Canada had met leaders of several Khalistani groups in Vancouver earlier. The secret meeting was attended by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun and other heads of Khalistani outfits. They chalked out a strategy, dubbed Plan-K, to extensively spread anti-India propaganda, according to Outlook. Who killed Nijjar? While a needle of suspicion has been pointed towards the ISI, the Canadian intelligence agencies are still to make any breakthrough in the murder of Nijjar. Investigators belonging to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police have tried to ascertain if Indian-origin agents travelled in or out of the country around 18 June the day of Nijjars killing but have come up empty. Terry Milewski author of Blood for Blood: Fifty Years of the Global Khalistan Project in a Rediff interview shared another theory on who killed Nijjar. The author said that theres a popular theory in Canada that Nijjars killing was revenge for the murder of Ripudaman Singh Malik accused in the 1985 Air India bombing that occurred in July of last year. He said that there was some evidence that the Malik camp wanted revenge for the death of Malik by eliminating Nijjar. India has asked for Canada to share the evidence they have on Nijjars killing and assured that they would act on it. On the other hand, Trudeau on 23 September stated that his country had shared the credible allegation that Indian government agents were potentially involved in the murder of a Khalistani terrorist in British Columbia with New Delhi weeks ago. He was quoted by Reuters as saying, Canada has shared the credible allegations that I talked about on Monday with India. We did that many weeks ago. We are there to work constructively with India. We hope that they engage with us so that we can get to the bottom of this very serious matter. With inputs from agencies Noida cemented its place on the global map of aviation when the upcoming airport in Jewar received an official IATA airport code, DXN, on Wednesday. According to Christoph Schnellmann, chief executive officer of the airport, the location identifier represents a crucial turning point in the airports development as a major hub for international aviation. With the allocation of the new code, the airport draws closer to its consumers who will be able to identify the airport across multiple platforms when they board their flights there by the end of 2024, the statement said, as per The Times of India. Lets take a closer look. Also read: Noida International Airport in numbers: 1,300 hectares, Rs 10,500 crore IATA Code Airports all over the world are given unique codes by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), a grouping of roughly 300 airlines that represent around 83 per cent of all global air traffic. The three-letter geocode called the IATA airport code, also known as the IATA location identifier, is used to identify airports and major cities around the world. The Noida International Airport has been given DXN by the IATA, which serves as the defining authority. Schnellmann stated that DXN stands for the airports proximity to Noida, Delhi, and western Uttar Pradesh and that Indias National Capital Region deserves a second airport as one of the largest urban agglomerations in the world, according to the report. The Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and the airport at Hindton, which operates certain domestic flights, are the two airports that now serve the NCR. IATA received three code ideas from the airport, of which DXN was chosen, according to Kiran Jain, chief operating officer of the airport. The other two recommendations were kept hidden by NIA officials. The code will enable travellers and aviation experts to identify and communicate destinations quickly and precisely, preventing any confusion or errors, the airport said in a statement. The code will go into effect once airport operations begin. Also read: Private jet skids off Mumbai airport, breaks apart: What we know so far The upcoming airport in Jewar Noida International Airport is anticipated to be the biggest airport in the nation when it is finished. It is being built across a 5,000-hectare area in four phases. Yamuna International Airport Private Limited (YIAPL), a fully owned subsidiary of Zurich Airport International AG, a Swiss company, is building the airport for the Uttar Pradesh government. The firm will plan, construct, and run the airport for 40 years. The implementing organisation on behalf of the UP government is the Noida International Airport Ltd (NIAL). The airport will jointly be owned by the Yamuna Motorway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA), Noida Authority, Greater Noida Authority, and the state government, according to Indian Express. Over 1,300 hectares of the mega projects first phase are now under construction. Commercial flights will begin at Noida International Airport, which is developing quickly, by the end of 2024, said CEO Schnellmann. Several airlines have expressed interest, he said, and test flights will start in the last quarter of next year. According to News18, Schnellmann thanked the Uttar Pradesh government for its support and said the runway work is on at an aggressive pace. We have got our IATA code, DXN. Test flights will take place in the last quarter of 2024 and commercial flights will begin by the end of 2024. Multiple airlines have shown interest, the news channel quoted him as saying. The CEO believes by the completion of its first phase, the Noida airport hopes to serve 12 million people and will feature 28 aircraft stands. Travellers may expect more efficient boarding procedures, quicker security inspections, and easier check-in procedures as a result. The airport will be expanded to Phase IV, in which the aim is 70 million passenger capacity, he added. The countrys air travel statistics are increasing dramatically every day, he continued, thus there is no competition for the Indira Gandhi International Airport. Also read: Trauma at T3: Why is Delhi airport facing overcrowding leading to flight delays? The progress Phase I of the Noida International Airport is expected to be finished by the end of 2024. According to Schnellmann, who provided updates on the airports development, there are currently over 7,000 workers on the site, and more than 14 million safe work hours have been performed. Indian Express reported that over 450 pieces of heavy and small machinery are present on the site. A total of 25,000 tonnes of steel, 13,000 tonnes of aggregate, and over 50,000 tonnes of concrete have been purchased thus far. We have completed the arrival level across the head house and the departure level; other work on the passenger terminal building is ongoing. The Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower has been completed up to 30 metres, two more levels are left until we will reach the roof to place the cabin on top of it. Work on the sub-grade layer and final layering is ongoing on the runway. Not only us, but many of our partners are working to provide different services to the airport, said the CEO, as per the report. He went on to say that key airport partners including Siemens, Honeywell, Amadeus, ThyssenKrupp, Naffco, Global Specialist, Smiths Detection, SITA, IndianOil Skytanking and Roseate Hotels and Resorts will offer services ranging from IT and telecommunication to lifts, chemical detectors, energy management, fire protection systems, and software solutions for the international travel and tourism industry, among other things. Similar to this, AISATS will plan, construct, and run an airport-based multi-modal freight hub. The hub will include a logistics park, warehousing area, integrated cargo terminal, cool port, courier terminal, and trucking centre. The cargo hub would span 80 acres, according to the CEO. Over two lakh tonnes per year will be its starting capacity, which will increase to 20 lakh tonnes per year. There will be infrastructure there to support air-to-road, air-to-road, and road-to-road movements. With inputs from agencies Is the BJP planning to field Vasundhara Raje against Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot in Rajasthan? The scuttlebutt in certain quarters is that Raje, the former two-time chief minister and Jhalarapatan Assembly MLA, could take on Gehlot in the Sardarpura seat in Jodhpur. Raje has been elected from Jhalarapatan five consecutive times, while Gehlot has held his seat Sardarpura seat for over two decades. Lets take a closer look: News18 quoted sources as saying that the BJP is preparing to field Raje against Gehlot in Sardarpura. However, sources told the outlet Raje seemingly wants to contest polls from her Jhalarapatan stronghold and that she has no plans to take on Gehlot in Sardarpura. The BJP has tapped Union minister Gajendra Shekhawat as its backup, as per the outlet. The report comes just a day after Union home Minister Amit Shah and BJP president JP Nadda began discussions with the partys Rajasthan leadership regarding the upcoming state Assembly polls and amid a buzz that two central ministers might be asked to contest. Raje was amongst a slew of big names that welcomed Shah and Nadda at the Jaipur airport. Party sources said Shah and Nadda began discussions by holding a 15-minute meeting with Raje. Shah and Nadda then met senior leaders and discussed constituencies and election strategy. Feedback on four parivartan yatras that concluded recently were also taken. Union minister and the BJPs election in-charge for Rajasthan Pralhad Joshi, co-in-charge Nitin Patel, the partys in-charge for Rajasthan Arun Singh, state president C P Joshi, Union ministers Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Arjun Ram Meghwal and Kailash Chaudhary, Leader of Opposition in the state Assembly Rajendra Rathore, Deputy Leader of Opposition and former state president Satish Poonia and other leaders were present at the meeting, source said. They added that Union Jal Shakti Minister Shekhawat and Law Minister Meghwal might be fielded in the Assembly polls due in months, along with some other MPs. The visit by Shah and Nadda follows a rally addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi near Jaipur on Monday to mark the completion of the yatras that touched all 200 Assembly constituencies in the state. The BJP is now planning events focusing on youngsters, farmers and women. Why does this matter? The chatter around Raje follows the BJPs decision to name three Union ministers and four other MPs in its second list of candidates for the Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls also due by the year-end and the name of Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan remaining conspicuous by its absence. The BJP has seemingly committed to a strategy of not announcing a face for any of the polls slated to be held this year. The party is looking for collective leadership to carry the day. The development also comes just days after a photo of a meeting between Raje and Gehlot raised eyebrows. As per New Indian Express, Rajes name and that of her backers was also missing from two crucial BJP committees for the Rajasthan polls. A piece in NDTV said the developments signal ominous portends for both Raje and Chouhan both of whom have loomed over their states for decades. A two-time Chief Minister of Rajasthan, she is the only charismatic leader with a pan-Rajasthan presence and a solid mass base. Its not that the BJP has found another mass leader to replace Vasundhara Raje. Those being groomed as her likely successors are too lightweight and have no presence beyond their constituencies. They cannot be relied upon to win state elections for the party. Arjun Ram Meghwal, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Satish Punia, CP Joshi, and Om Birla are no match for Vasundhara Raje, the piece noted. A piece in The Telegraph India said the BJP had sent a signal to Raje through Chouhans exclusion. The piece quoted insiders as saying that the BJP is trying to rein in Chouhan and Raje in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Like four-term chief minister Shivraj, former chief minister Vasundhara has been the undisputed leader of the Rajasthan BJP for over two decades but the current dispensation now wants to end her dominance, the piece stated. A piece in Indian Express noted how Raje was not given a chance to speak during Modis rally on Monday nor was her government mentioned and compared and contrasted with the Gehlot regime. Almost as if by mutual agreement, the party has kept Raje at an arms length from its programmes, while she too has maintained her distance. The anti-Raje camp says that she should have contributed more to the party in the last four years and a half, while those close to her say she was never invited for the programmes she is accused of skipping, the piece stated. A BJP leader told the newspaper the party envisages a win-win scenario in Rajasthan. If it wins, it will be in power and will still push for someone other than Raje. If it loses, the Raje era will be finally over, the leader said. Raje, meanwhile, has vowed to continue to fight for the rights of every Rajasthani. Raje also expressed her appreciation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi for passing the womens reservation bill in Parliament. Addressing a gathering of women at her residence in Jaipur, she emphasised that the bill highlights the essential role of female power in building a new nation. The bill to reserve a third of seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women received parliamentary nod on Thursday as the Rajya Sabha unanimously voted in its favour. It will now require the approval of a majority of the state assemblies. Raje also expressed belief that womens enthusiasm for the BJP would sweep the Congress government away in Rajasthan, where assembly elections are due later this year. Drawing inspiration from the Mahabharata, Raje pledged to fight for the rights of every Rajasthani. With inputs from agencies Rusalka's [ song to the Moon ] from Antonin Dvo?ak opera Rusalka/ top 10 cellists Cello or Opera, which one do you like? The emotional impact of music is highly subjective, and individuals may have different responses and interpretations based on their personal experiences and sensitivities. Cello Dvorak Rusalka [Song to the Moon], but not the Opera soprano, got my eyes swollen in tears and crying. why? Song to the Moon from Antonin Dvo?aks opera Rusalka. This aria is known for its hauntingly beautiful melody and emotional depth. The lyrics express the longing and sadness of the water nymph Rusalka, who wishes to become human in order to experience love. In the opera, Rusalka falls in love with a human prince and seeks the help of a witch to transform her into a human. However, this transformation comes at a cost Rusalka loses her voice and ability to speak. Despite her sacrifice, the prince is unable to fully reciprocate her love, leading to heartbreak and tragedy. The combination of Dvo?aks evocative music and the poignant story of unrequited love and sacrifice in Rusalka can elicit strong emotional reactions from listeners. The beauty and sadness of the music, along with the dramatic context of the opera, can touch the depths of ones emotions and bring tears to their eyes. Song to the moon / Dvorak "Rusalka" (Cello by Gautier Capucon / Concert de Paris Tour Eiffel 14th July 2019) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLEvXrCgDtY **** [[[United States Navy Band; 115,343 views Sep 25, 2015 "Song to the Moon" from the opera "Rusalka," Op. 114 by Antonin Dvorak premiered March 31, 1901. Orchestrated for band by Senior Chief Scott Silbert United States Navy Concert Band conductor: Capt. Brian Walden soprano: Musician 1st Class Susan Kavinski Recorded at the Hylton Performing Arts Center, Manassas, Vir. in May 2015. "Song to the Moon" is perhaps one of the most beautiful arias ever written for soprano voice. The aria takes place early in the first act of the opera "Rusalka" by Antonin Dvorak. The protagonist, Rusalka, is a water nymph who falls in love with a human prince she views swimming in her lake. As a water nymph, she is invisible to humans, so she prays to the rising moon in a heart-wrenching aria to reveal her love to the human.]]] Top 10 the greatest living cellists of our time: Yo-Yo Ma Mischa Maisky Steven Isserlis Gautier Capucon Sol Gabetta Lynn Harrell Truls Mrk Alisa Weilerstein Jian Wang (below for his performance) Sheku Kanneh-Mason. My favorite Hauser, whose full name is Stjepan Hauser, is a highly talented cellist who gained significant popularity as a member of the duo 2Cellos. While he may not be traditionally considered one of the greatest cellists of our time in terms of classical repertoire, his unique style and virtuosity have garnered him a large fan base and recognition in the music industry. HAUSER - Song to the Moon (Rusalka) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hk7CSDD-kQ&list=PL2QqKNSv2fD3gVMNusWEhwOMMTPOkm7aK Song to the Moon from Antonin Dvorak's opera Rusalka - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90WNleRmWiI The Latvian National Opera Orchestra conductor: Marti?s Ozoli?s Rusalka (Antonin Dvo?ak) [Song to the Moon] She was awarded Latvijas Gaze Annual Opera Award (2008) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trfLkYpOglA? Renee Fleming (born February 14, 1959) is an American soprano specializing in opera and lieder. Jian Wang playing Tchaikovsky Rococo Variations China National Symphony Zuo Huang Chen live Tokyo 1999 https://www.yo-yoma.com/calendar/ https://www.yo-yoma.com/biography/ Yo-Yo Mas multi-faceted career is testament to his belief in cultures power to generate trust and understanding. Whether performing new or familiar works for cello, bringing communities together to explore cultures role in society, or engaging unexpected musical forms, Yo-Yo strives to foster connections that stimulate the imagination and reinforce our humanity. Read the Text-Only Version of the Biography All the things I love about life outside music have to do with people, and playing the cello allows me to fulfill all those interests through music. YO-YO MA Most recently, Yo-Yo began Our Common Nature, a cultural journey to celebrate the ways that nature can reunite us in pursuit of a shared future. Our Common Nature follows the Bach Project, a 36-community, six-continent tour of J. S. Bachs cello suites paired with local cultural programming. Both endeavors reflect Yo-Yos lifelong commitment to stretching the boundaries of genre and tradition to understand how music helps us to imagine and build a stronger society. Yo-Yo is an advocate for a future guided by humanity, trust, and understanding. Among his many roles, Yo-Yo is a United Nations Messenger of Peace, the first artist ever appointed to the World Economic Forums board of trustees, a member of the board of Nia Tero, the US-based nonprofit working in solidarity with Indigenous peoples and movements worldwide, and the founder of the global music collective Silkroad. As musicians, we transcend technique in order to seek out the truths in our world in a way that gives meaning and sustenance to individuals and communities. Thats art for lifes sake. YO-YO MA, NANCY HANKS LECTURE, APRIL 8, 2013 His discography of more than 120 albums (including 19 Grammy Award winners) ranges from iconic renditions of the Western classical canon to recordings that defy categorization, such as Hush with Bobby McFerrin and the Goat Rodeo Sessions with Stuart Duncan, Edgar Meyer, and Chris Thile. Yo-Yos recent releases include Six Evolutions, his third recording of Bachs cello suites, and Songs of Comfort and Hope, created and recorded with pianist Kathryn Stott in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Yo-Yos latest album, Beethoven for Three: Symphony No. 6 and Op. 1, No. 3, is the second in a new series of Beethoven recordings with pianist Emanuel Ax and violinist Leonidas Kavakos. Yo-Yo was born in 1955 to Chinese parents living in Paris. He began to study the cello with his father at age four and three years later moved with his family to New York City, where he continued his cello studies at the Juilliard School before pursuing a liberal arts education at Harvard. He has received numerous awards, including the Avery Fisher Prize (1978), the National Medal of the Arts (2001), the Presidential Medal of Freedom (2010), Kennedy Center Honors (2011), the Polar Music Prize (2012), and the Birgit Nilsson Prize (2022). He has performed for nine American presidents, most recently on the occasion of President Bidens inauguration. Yo-Yo and his wife have two children. He plays three instruments: a 2003 instrument made by Moes & Moes, a 1733 Montagnana cello from Venice, and the 1712 Davidoff Stradivarius. OFFICIAL BIO FOR THE 20222023 SEASON / For additional materials, contact publicity@opus3artists.com. In May, violence erupted in Manipur. This occurred after a Tribal Solidarity March was organised in the hill districts to protest against the majority Meitei communitys demand for Scheduled Tribe status. Some reports peg the number of dead in the violence at over 200 the Manipur Police in September said the conflict had claimed 175 lives while hundreds have been injured and tens of thousands displaced. Now, it has been reported that the Centre has designated the Manipur conflict as communal violence. But what does this mean? And why has this been done? Lets take a closer look: The Economic Times reported that the Centre has labelled the ongoing conflict in Manipur as communal violence. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, communal violence is defined as planned and organised acts of violence by members of a community against members of another community to create or express ill-will or hatred and leading to loss of life or injuries to people. Sources told the newspaper the conflict has been labelled communal violence in order in order to disburse compensation to victims families. Sources added this was necessary to adhere to procedural requirements and that only this nomenclature was found to be applicable. Both the Centre and Manipur have invoked the 2022 central scheme for assistance to civilian victims/family of victims of terrorist/communal/left-wing extremist violence, cross border firing and mine/IED blast on Indian territory for extending compensation to those impacted by the violence in the state. An official, speaking to the newspaper on condition of anonymity, said, We do not see the Manipur violence as religion-specific in nature. It is an ethnic conflict with several other dimensions to it. However, we had to categorise it as an act of communal violence for governmental processes. Existing schemes to ensure compensation and relief to the impacted people do not cover such incidents. Therefore, processes have required us to fit it into the communal violence category so that timely compensation can be given to the violence-affected persons or their next of kin. The newspaper quoted government data as showing that 64 next of kin have been given compensation as victims of communal violence. The Centre and state in May each decided to give a compensation of Rs 5 lakh to those who died during the ethnic conflict in Manipur. A member of the family of those who died in the violence will also be provided a job, officials said. A top Indian Army official in September told Livemint the state was facing a dangerous and unprecedented situation. Lt. General PC Nair, Director General of Assam Rifles said, The situation that we are facing in Manipur is unprecedented. We have never faced anything of this kind. Something similar happened in the early 90s when the Nagas and Kukis fought and then within the Kuki groups also there was a fight in the late 90s. Today, the biggest challenge is the large number of weapons that are out within both communities. Related to this, is the minds of both communities. Today, theres so much against each other, its so corrupted. Chief Minister Biren Singh, who has taken much flak over his handling of the crisis, Monday appealed to the indigenous communities of the state to continue to live as one and vowed that the state governments crackdown on illegal drug business will not stop. Singh earlier said the conflict occurred due to a prevailing misunderstanding between two communities, as per Indian Express. He also blamed a communication gap. Singh, a Metei, further accused Kuki insurgent groups of incitement, as per BBC. Restoration of peace and normalcy is paramount. All should refrain from making comments and engage in discussion that could be upsetting for another community, Singh said in August. There will be difference of opinions but people should keep aside their self-interests and focus more on common interests. The main objective now is the restoration of peace, he said. People should work doubly hard so that the pace of development returns and the state once again moves towards unity and progress that it has been advancing to during the last six years, Singh added. Singh in August complained that there are too many civil society organisations in Manipur and that they speak in different voices. He said this makes it difficult to find a solution to the ethnic problem rocking Manipur for nearly four months. He urged those bodies to present a concrete proposal to solve the crisis in one voice, so it can be conveyed to the Centre by the state government. There are too many organisations. We are at a very crucial stage now. Both the central and the state governments are confused about whom to talk to. We will go with the public (opinion) and never work against the interests of the people, Singh said at a programme. With inputs from agencies The Indonesian government banned e-commerce transactions on social media platforms on Wednesday. The announcement was made by the countrys Trade Minister, Zulkifli Hasan, who stated that the government was attempting to defend offline merchants, marketplaces, and small enterprises. Government officials in recent weeks called for social media and e-commerce to be decoupled, targeting platforms they say engage in monopolistic practices that threaten offline sellers, with some specifically blaming Chinese-owned short video app TikTok. According to Hasan, predatory pricing on social media platforms is endangering the livelihoods of small and medium-sized businesses that are unable to compete with monopolistic rules. This trade regulation has been in force (since yesterday), Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan told a press conference in the capital Jakarta, adding that the connection [between social media and e-commerce] must be separated so that the algorithm is not all controlled and this prevents the use of personal data for business purposes, reports Wion. The governments move is seen as a big blow to TikTok, the short video app that is pressing down on Southeast Asias largest economy to build its e-commerce business. Heres what Indonesias e-commerce sales ban on social media platforms means and why its a big hit for TikTok. E-commerce and social media separated The regulation means social media firms will not be able to conduct direct transactions but only promote products on their platforms. Social commerce can place ads like TV, but it mustnt be transactional. [They] cant open shop, cant directly sell, the trade minister, Zulkifli Hasan, told a news conference, as reported by The Guardian. Now, e-commerce cannot become social media. It is separated, Hasan said, adding that the social commerce platforms would have a week to comply with the new rule. Companies who do not comply risk having their business licences in Indonesia cancelled. Furthermore, the new legislation requires that e-commerce platforms in the country specify a minimum price of $100 for some commodities purchased straight from abroad. Laws in the archipelago nation did not cover direct transactions through social media platforms such as TikTok, Facebook or Instagram before the new regulation. The new regulation is yet another setback for TikTok, which has faced intense scrutiny in the United States and other nations in recent months over users data security and the companys alleged ties to Beijing. Big blow to TikTok The decision comes just three months after TikTok announced a billion-dollar investment in Southeast Asia, mostly in Indonesia, over the next four years as part of a significant drive to grow its e-commerce platform TikTok Shop. Indonesia is one of the worlds biggest markets for TikTok Shop and was the first to pilot the apps e-commerce arm. TikTok, which is owned by Chinas ByteDance, has 125 million active monthly users in Indonesia and is attempting to convert the massive user base into a significant e-commerce revenue source. A spokesman for TikTok Indonesia told Reuters that the company was deeply concerned by the move, particularly how it would impact the livelihoods of the six million local vendors operating on TikTok Shop. Social commerce was born to solve a real-world problem for local traditional small sellers, by matching them with local creators who can help drive traffic to their online shops, a TikTok spokesperson said. While we respect local laws and regulations, we hope that the regulations take into account its impact on the livelihoods of more than 6 million sellers and close to 7 million affiliate creators who use TikTok Shop, he added, as reported by Wion. Facebook and Instagram are yet to comment on the issue. Indonesia is now the first country in the region to act against the platforms growing popularity in the social commerce space. The ministerial-level regulation an amendment to a trade regulation issued in 2020 did not need approval by lawmakers. Little influence on other digital marketplace business According to research firm BMI, the transaction ban would solely effect TikTok, and the measure would have little impact on the expansion of the digital marketplace industry. The commerce market in Indonesia is largely dominated by the homegrown IT firm GoTos (GOTO.JK) Tokopedia, Seas (SE.N) Shopee, and Chinese e-commerce giant Alibabas (9988.HK) Lazada. According to figures from consultant Momentum Works, as reported by Reuters, e-commerce transactions in Indonesia totalled about $52 billion (Rs 432,676 crore) last year, with TikTok accounting for five per cent of that total. Retailers react Fahmi Ridho, a TikTok vendor selling garments, told Reuters that the platform was a means for retailers to recover from the COVID-19 outbreak. Sales dont have to be necessarily through (brick and mortar) shops, you can do it online or wherever. Everything will still have a portion, he explained. However, Edri, who goes by one name only and sells garments at a big wholesale market in Jakarta, agreed with the policy and emphasised that things offered online should be limited. With inputs from AFP and Reuters After the Central Bureau of probe (CBI) launched a preliminary probe into alleged irregularities in the construction and repair of his home on Thursday, Arvind Kejriwal, the chief minister of Delhi and the founder of the Aam Aadmi Party, fired a shot at the federal government. What can we expect from a Fourth pass Raja? They want me to bow down before them. They want to break me. But I will not bow down, Kejriwal said while speaking to reporters in Delhi. The CBI has started a preliminary probe to look into the alleged irregularities in the construction and renovation of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwals official residence. The renovation of Kejriwals official apartment, 6, Flagstaff Road, in the citys Civil Lines neighbourhood, according to the BJP, cost almost Rs 45 crore. This shows that the Prime Minister is distressed. Till now, he has had over 50 enquiries conducted. He has got over 33 cases registered against me. He got it all enquired but nothing came out. Ever since I assumed the charge of the Delhi Chief Minister, they have been making enquiries against me. They have found nothing to date, he added. The Delhi Chief Minister further maintained that the government agencys inquiry into alleged irregularities in the construction of his residence would yield no results. They have started a new enquiry. We welcome it. But nothing will come out, he said. Taking potshots at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kejriwal said, Today, I am presenting a challenge before the fourth pass Raja, if you find nothing in this investigation, are you ready to resign from your post having had conducted false enquiries? Earlier on Wednesday, the Aam Aadmi Party also questioned the central government for the CBIs move. The BJP is leaving no stone unturned in finishing off the Aam Aadmi Party. Today, there is only the AAP seeking votes on the basis of work done in the field of health and education. However, the BJP does not want the poor to receive the best education and healthcare services. This will lead to the defeat of the BJPs religion and caste-based politics, the AAP said in a statement. In response, the BJP attacked the Delhi AAP government, claiming that it was rife with corruption. In the history of India, the AAP has established a record of becoming the most corrupt political party in the least amount of time. As far as the corruption surrounding the palace of the CM is concerned then every citizen of Delhi knows that even the toilets and and curtains costed crores. The Public Works Department (PWD) received show-cause notices from the Directorate of Vigilance earlier this year in relation to the alleged expenditure on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwals residence. (With agency inputs) The Indian Army has submitted a proposal to the Defence Ministry to purchase 400 howitzers from Indian companies as part of a massive effort to support domestically designed and built combat systems. The 155 mm/52 calibre Towed Gun System will be lighter, more adaptable, and prepared for future technical improvements thanks to the knowledge of Indian Industry, according to the Indian Armys Regiment of Artillery. A proposal for buying 400 155mm 52 calibre towed gun systems (TGS) along with towing vehicles from Indian firms under the Buy Indian-IDDM category has been moved to the Defence Ministry. The government is expected to soon take a decision on the TGS at a high-level meeting, senior military officials told the media. The Indian Army has already released a tender to locate a mounted gun system for its needs along the borders with China and Pakistan in addition to one to find 307 Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS). It would be entirely Indian in every manner if the howitzer were Indian Designed, Developed, and Manufactured. Like the previous Bofors weapons, the Army wants the new guns to be lighter and simpler to deploy in high-altitude settings. The Armys strategy for mediumization with indigenous weapons includes a procurement process that should be finished by 2042. Four contracts for the purchase of 155 mm howitzers have been finalised in the previous ten years. The introduction of these gun systems and the subsequent equipping of more regiments with these weapons. Dhanush, Sharang, Ultra Light Howitzers (ULH), and K-9 Vajra Self-Propelled Guns are some of these weapon systems. The Sharang Guns have been upgraded from 130mm to 155mm calibre, while the Dhanush Guns are electronic upgrades of the Bofors Guns. Five Regiments have already received self-propelled guns, while seven Regiments have already received ULHs. (With agency inputs) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will hold Central Election Committee meeting on September 30 and October 1 in the national capital to finalise the candidates for the upcoming assembly elections in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Telangana, according to sources. Key leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP President JP Nadda, and Home Minister Amit Shah, along with other members of the election committee, will take part in the meeting, sources said. Earlier, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) held the Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting on September 13 to discuss the Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh elections at the partys headquarters in the national capital. Key leaders, including BJP President JP Nadda and Home Minister Amit Shah, along with other members of the election committee and Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan, took part in the meeting. Earlier, the BJP released its first list of candidates for the Madhya Pradesh assembly elections on August 17, revealing the names of 39 candidates. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on September 25 released its second list of 39 candidates for the forthcoming assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh including Union Ministers Narendra Singh Tomar and Prahlad Singh Patel. Union Ministers Narendra Singh Tomar and Prahlad Singh Patel have been fielded from the Dimani and Narsingpur constituencies. While Union Minister Faggan Singh Kulaste will be contesting from the Niwas constituency. State assembly elections are slated to be held this year in five states. In light of this, the BJP is advancing with a comprehensive strategy. All seats in these electoral states have been categorised into A, B, C, and D. Category A includes seats where the party has consistently performed well. Category B includes seats with a mixed track record of BJP victories and losses, while Category C represents seats where the party is relatively weaker. In contrast, Category D seats have seen continuous BJP defeats in the last three elections. Despite the deteriorating diplomatic relations between New Delhi and Ottawa, the Indian government is continuing its purchases of lentils from Canada as it aims to bolster its buffer stocks to address the rising prices of pulses in the domestic market, said sources familiar with the matter. Two central government agencies, namely the National Cooperative Consumers Federation of India Ltd (NCCF) and the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED), have recently issued tenders to procure red lentils (masoor whole) from the local market and through imports in an effort to stabilise prices, as reported by Economics Times. Starting earlier this month, these two agencies have collectively been issuing tenders four times a week to procure lentils. The reduced acreage due to erratic monsoons in key growing states this year has led to an increase in prices of this protein-rich staple. Canadas Food Exports to India Slow Down | Vantage with Palki Sharma Canada was the biggest supplier of lentils to India during Indias 2022-23 financial year ended on 31 March with shipments of 485,492 metric tonnes worth $370 million (Rs 3,079 crore), accounting for more than half of Indias total lentils imports, according to data from Indias trade ministry. The trend had been continuing, with Indias imports of Canadian lentils from April to July jumping 420 per cent from a year ago to 190,784 tons, the trade ministry data showed. The Manipur government is considering the implementation of a one district, one force policy to enhance coordination and operational efficiency among security forces, as part of its efforts to restore peace in the northeastern state, which has been plagued by ethnic violence since 3 May. According to a Hindustan Times report, under this arrangement, each district will have dedicated personnel from a paramilitary force responsible for maintaining law and order. A security official in Delhi explained that this approach aims to promote accountability and minimise the potential for conflicts between different security forces. According to the report, citing an anonymous official, a unified command under the leadership of security advisor Kuldiep Singh is expected to reorganise security personnel throughout the state to implement the one district, one force framework. Having one force to look after a particular district will help in coordination and also fix accountability. The force will be responsible for everything that happens in the particular district. Since the CRPF has more personnel, it is likely that they may be posted in more than one district, Hindustan Times quoted the official as saying. All these paramilitary forces will work in conjunction with the state police. Though an official order is yet to be issued, this will happen soon, the official added. In the state currently experiencing ongoing ethnic tensions between the Meiteis and Kukis, there are over 200 companies representing various paramilitary forces. Unfortunately, this region has witnessed at least 175 casualties due to instances of violence stemming from these tensions. To address the situation and restore peace and normalcy, the nations five paramilitary forces CRPF, BSF, ITBP, SSB, and CISF along with the Assam Rifles and the army are working in cooperation with the state police. Their combined efforts are focused on maintaining law and order, safeguarding the population, and addressing the complex challenges posed by the ethnic conflict. The deployment of the forces could be done on the basis of the existing offices or camps of the forces that are present in each district. The state has 16 administrative districts. Even before the violence erupted, there were some companies of the CRPF and army stationed in the state. Among the paramilitary forces, the CRPF has the maximum number of personnel posted in Manipur, the report quoted the official as saying. With inputs from agencies Punjab Police on Thursday morning arrested Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira in connection with a 2015 drugs case, family members of the legislator claimed. However, there was no official word on Khaira being taken into police custody. A family member of the Congress MLA went live on Facebook showing that a team of Punjab Police has reached their residence to apprehend Khaira. In the video, Khaira could be seen arguing with the police team and asking them to show him the arrest warrant. The Bholath legislator could also be seen asking for the identity of the police officers who were part of the raiding team. When Khaira asked the team where he was being taken, a police official told him that he was being taken to Jalalabad in Fazilka. Slamming the Bhagwant Mann government, the Congress MLA claimed that he was being apprehended in a fake case and that jungle raj was prevailing in the state. Reacting to the development, Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring said the move to arrest the Congress MLA smacks of political vendetta. Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring says, The recent arrest of Punjab Congress MLA Sukhpal Khaira smacks of political vendetta, it is an attempt to intimidate the opposition and is a ploy of the AAP Punjab govt to distract from core issues. pic.twitter.com/Ao3QX2FMAZ ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2023 Taking to X, Warring said,The recent arrest of Punjab Congress MLA Sukhpal Khaira smacks of political vendetta, it is an attempt to intimidate the opposition and is a ploy of the AAP Punjab govt to distract from core issues. The drugs case was registered in March 2015 at Jalalabad in Fazilka. Nine people were booked in the case and later convicted under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. In 2017, the Supreme Court stayed the trial court proceedings against Khaira who was summoned as an additional accused in the matter. With inputs from agencies The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday summoned senior Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee again on October 3 for questioning in connection with the school jobs scam in Kolkata, which the party described as an attempt by the BJP to disrupt its planned rally in New Delhi on the same day. It also exposed the fear in the saffron camp, claimed Banerjee who is set to lead the protest rally in the national capital against the Centres decision to withhold the states dues under MGNREGA. The TMC general secretary, considered number two in the party, shared the letter sent to him by the central agency on X, formerly Twitter. Earlier this month, the ED summoned me on a day coinciding with an important coordination meeting of #INDIA in Delhi. I dutifully appeared and complied with the served summons, he said. Now, today yet again, they have served me another summons to appear before them on a day when the protest agitation for West Bengals rightful dues is scheduled in Delhi on 3rd October. This stark revelation unequivocally exposes those who are truly perturbED, rattlED and scarED! he posted on the micro-blogging site. Reacting to the allegations, the BJP said the central agencies do not need to consult the TMC before summoning anyone. Banerjee, along with other party MPs, MLAs and leaders will pay their respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat in the national capital on October 2 on his birth anniversary. A TMC delegation will meet Union Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Giriraj Singh on October 3 and place before him the issue of non-release of dues under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). The ruling party of West Bengal claimed that the BJP is afraid of the TMCs programme in New Delhi and is trying to scuttle the peoples voice. @BJP4India, how low will you stoop? First, you withhold the rightful dues of Bengals people and let them suffer. And now, youre trying to silence the voice of our people by summoning National GS Shri @abhishekaitc through your caged parrot @dir_ed on October 3rd, the day when a protest agitation is to take place in Delhi, the TMC posted on X. The Supreme Court in 2013 had described the CBI, another central probe agency, as a caged parrot while citing evidence of interference in its investigation into the alleged irregularities in the allocation of coalfield licences. At that time, the Congress-led UPA was in power at the Centre. The TMC post said, Theres nothing more shameful than witnessing how one of the largest democracies in the world has been reduced to ashes in PM @narendramodis regime. But like always, we will fight back! The BJP rejected the allegations of the TMC. If Abhishek Banerjee and the TMC are not afraid of anyone, why are they apprehensive of appearing before the ED? The central agency is right in asking Abhishek Banerjee to appear before it, senior BJP leader Rahul Sinha said. Banerjee, who was questioned by ED for nearly nine hours in the teacher recruitment scam earlier on September 13, had then claimed that the interrogation was an effort to prevent him from participating in the coordination committee meeting of opposition bloc INDIA. Earlier, the two-time TMC MP from Diamond Harbour was questioned by the ED twice in the coal pilferage case in the agencys office in Delhi in 2021 and in Kolkata in 2022. In May this year, he was questioned by the CBI for nine hours in the school jobs scam. In the 56th Network Planning Group (NPG) meeting Thursday, six infrastructure projects of roads and railways worth Rs 52,000 crore have been recommended for approval under the PM Gati Shakti initiative, an official statement of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry said on Thursday. With the development, the total number of projects assessed by NPG to 112 with a total value of about Rs 11.53 lakh crore, since the launch of PM Gati Shakti, it said. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highway (MoRTH) presented four road projects worth about Rs 45000 crore to NPG and demonstrated adherence to GatiShakti principles, according to the statement. The first project proposal is a greenfield road located in the State of Gujarat and Maharashtra, that will benefit not only industrial belts in Navsari, Nashik, and Ahmednagar districts but also the agriculture sector in the region, it said. Additionally, the project is expected to contribute to the overall socio-economic development of tribal districts like Navsari, Valsad and Nashik by providing easy and convenient connectivity. It will also benefit the tourism sector in the region and will also connect aspirational districts, such as Osmanabad. The second project is also located in the state of Gujarat, through Banaskantha, Patan, Mahesana, Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad district. It will connect the Amritsar-Jamnagar economic corridor with Ahmedabad and Vadodara and will integrate with other modes of transportation, thereby contributing to the promotion and usage of multi-modality in the region, it said. The third road project proposed is located in the State of Bihar and involves the construction of 4 lanes of the Patna- Arrah-Sasaram corridor under Bharatmala Pariyojna, it said. This project is expected to bring socio-economic development in left-wing extremism-affected districts, including tribal areas. The project will help in improving logistics efficiency by reducing existing routes and travel time and provide seamless connectivity for the traffic coming from UP through Purvanchal Expressway and going towards Jharkhand and Patna. The fourth road project discussed during the meeting is located in Uttar Pradesh with the objective of improving the interstate connectivity between Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The inter-ministerial NPG meets every fortnight and appraises infra projects to ensure multi-modality, synchronisation of efforts, and comprehensive development in and around the project location. The initiative was launched to develop an integrated infrastructure to reduce logistics costs. All logistics and connectivity infrastructure projects, entailing investments of over Rs 500 crore are routed through the NPG. The NPGs approval is required before clearance of the project by the Public Investment Board (PIB) or Department of Expenditure under the finance ministry. The maximum number of projects recommended by the group are related to roads, railways and urban development. The NMP has a number of layers of geospatial data showing all physical and social infrastructure of an area and land records in one place. It has been designed for faster planning and better design so that the impact of an investment is maximised. The NPG has representations from various connectivity infrastructure ministries/ departments involving their heads of network planning division for unified planning and integration of the proposals. All these departments approach the NPG first for approval before making a DPR (Detailed Project Report) at the planning stage. After the NPGs clearance, the project follows the normal procedure of approval by the finance ministry and the Cabinet. Over 1,400 layers of data, including those related to land, ports, forests, and highways, are available on the portal. Usage of the portal by different ministries, including social sector departments and states, is increasing and it is helping in the proper planning of projects, it said. We often hear politicians and pundits ask "where does the money come from?," but the rhetorical questionthe answer is "taxpayers"is muted when the topic turns to policing. America's expansive prison system is getting a super-size upgrade in Alabama, where more than $1bn is being spent to built one of the world's largest. The Finance Authority in March increased the authorized spending on the first prison from about $623 million to $975 million. The latest action approved spending of a little more than $1 billion, which state officials said is the final price for the project. Rep. Rex Reynolds, chairman of the House General Fund budget committee, said the price of labor, concrete and other materials have risen since lawmakers approved the project. "That's just something we can't control But we've got to move forward with doing this job," Reynolds said. If you live in Alabama, already one of the poorest states in the Union, you are definitely on the hook for this deranged law enforcement Disneyland. Asked if the lawmakers would pursue borrowing additional money for the construction of the second prison, Reynolds said it is too early to know. A $200k-per-bed prison for Alabama, where churches get fawned over for paying off children's "lunch debt" to their schools. In Aligarh, the police have discovered the body of a 6-year-old girl, believed to have been murdered by her neighbour. The incident allegedly occurred because the young girl bought a bag of crisps. The girls lifeless body, concealed in a sack for disposal later, was found at the neighbours house during the late hours of Tuesday. The suspect has been apprehended, and his two siblings have been taken into custody for questioning. The deceased childs body has been sent for a post-mortem examination. The chain of events began on Tuesday morning when the little girl went missing from her neighbourhood in Aligarh. Concerned about her disappearance, her family reported her as missing later in the evening at the Nagar Kotwali police station. An investigation was swiftly launched with the aid of CCTV camera footage. This inquiry led the authorities to the residence of a neighbour, where the tragic discovery was made. Mrigank Shekhar Pathak, the Superintendent of Police for the city, shared, During the course of the investigation, one of the suspects admitted to the crime. He claimed that he had sent the girl to purchase paan masala for Rs 20, but she returned with a packet of chips. When he reprimanded her, she allegedly behaved rudely, leading to a confrontation that resulted in the murder. We are now awaiting the results of the autopsy report to determine the appropriate course of action. In UPs Meerut, police arrested a teacher named Ankit Tyagi on charges of illegally keeping a gun which they only had allegedly planted in the accused persons motorbike. Their actions were exposed after the CCTV footage emerged. SP Dehat Kamlesh Bahadurs investigation report highlighted the constables error, leading SSP to reprimand two constables. Furthermore, IG Meerut has summoned a report on the entire incident. Ankit Tyagis sister and other female family members staged a protest, and their video went viral. The case revolves around a land dispute involving farmer Ashok Tyagi from Khandavali village in Kharkhoda. Allegedly, the police, in collaboration with other parties, have been accused of harassing Ashok and his family. When the police first arrived in the village on Tuesday night, they found nothing incriminating. However, when Ankit left the house, a pistol mysteriously appeared on his bike. It is suspected that the pistol was planted to implicate Ashoks son. Ankit was taken into custody, and an Arms Act case was filed. The entire incident was captured on CCTV. Later, in an another video, two women pleaded for their brothers release outside Meerut IG Nachiketa Jhas residence on the night of September 26th. They held a child in their arms and requested to meet the IG but were denied access. The incident, captured on video, has been widely shared on social media. The two women can be seen outside IG Meerut Nachiketa Jhas office, with one holding a child. They repeatedly request to speak to the officer, claiming their brother is being falsely accused by the police. After some time, a security guard contacts someone via mobile phone and hands it over to the woman. The woman on the phone desperately pleads, Hello, SirSir, you must have seen the video. Sir, we are in distress. The police have placed a weapon with our family member. They are going to our house and assaulting us. We are outside with our children. She breaks down in tears. The other woman adds, Please, Sir, release our brother. We are the ones who have him. Sir, the recording is on the DVR. We have evidence on our phone. Afterward, the phone is returned to the security guard. Ankit Tyagi, a youth studying for the IAS, was arrested late on Tuesday night. His sister, Rakhi Tyagi, revealed, My four-year-old child is in the hospital with a 103-degree fever. We have been standing outside IG Sahibs office since 1 a.m. We are not being heard, and no action is being taken. The police are targeting us. We want to meet the officer, but they wont let us. The SO has accused us of misbehavior. The CO keeps demanding the DVR. We will only give it to a senior officer. IG Nachiketa Jha responded, saying, The women came with their complaint in the morning. Based on their complaint, a thorough investigation is underway, led by senior-ranking police officers. We will take appropriate action based on the investigations findings. Some teary-eyed, others dancing that is how people across India are bidding adieu to Lord Ganesh as the 10-day Ganesh Chaturthi festivities come to a close on 28 September with Visarjan of Gajanans idol. Maharashtra and especially Mumbai hogs all the limelight during Ganesh Chaturthi with different theme-based pandals, eco-friendly idols, and celebrations as well as bhog on almost all days, but videos of Ganesh idols visarjan from Hyderabad are going viral on social media. Everyone from devotees to volunteers as well as police personnel were deep in the festive fervour and a video shows Hyderabad police personnel dance during the Ganesh Visarjan procession at Tank Bund. The police officers were seen grooving to upbeat songs, traditional dhol near Tank Bund while the 63-feet Bada Ganesh of Khairtabad was taken for immersion amid elaborate security arrangements. VIDEO | Police personnel dance during the Ganesh Visarjan procession at Tank Bund in Hyderabad.#Ganeshotsav2023 #GaneshChaturthi2023 pic.twitter.com/8QPPowmAFx Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 28, 2023 Ganeshotsav is celebrated with great pomp and enthusiasm across various states in India. While some perform Visarjan after 1.5, 3, 5, or 7 days, the final day of festival holds significance as it is believed to mark Lord Ganesha's return to his heavenly abode. With inputs from agencies Diplomacy is hard. One has to delicately navigate through tight spaces, negotiate at mutually beneficial terms and carefully choose words to utter at the exact right moment. Diplomacy comes naturally to some leaders, who take it upon themselves to make their country stand out at the world stage; however, there are certain leaders who are masters of miscalculation, architects of error and lords of oversight, fumbling their way through the delicate dance of foreign relations. In the latter category stands none other than Canadas very own Justin Trudeau, the man who is breaking records on the shortest time it takes to completely wreck a nations foreign policy. The world watched in awe as he stood in the Canadian House of Commons and attacked an important geo-political ally, India, over credible allegations of it being accomplice in the killing of a convicted terrorist on Canadian soil. As linguistic experts and lexicographers all over the world got busy in searching for the definition of credible allegations, the explosive revelation came that he only made that announcement in haste so that the media does not report it before his announcement, making him appear weak and passive. Ironically, it did just that. As Justin Trudeau is dropping gems of geo-political wisdom faster than any of us can possibly gather, the moment is just about right to look at the five incredible (self-destructive) steps by the Canadian Prime Minister: 1. Trust me bro, I googled it One would imagine that leveraging such serious charges against a person, let alone a nation, would require concrete evidence beyond ambiguity. Rightfully so, the agencies in both Canada and India started demanding the credible allegations to be made public. Enters David Eby, the premier of British Columbia, who reveals that the only briefings that he has been able to receive in this regard were open source briefings, which is information thats available to the public doing an internet search. I find it frustrating, he adds, which resonates with the majority of stakeholders observing the situation. He added that Canadas Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc had reached out, but there has not been good information sharing. In other words, Justin Trudeau jeopardised India-Canada relations over a Google search. 2. Inviting a convicted terrorist to a diplomatic dinner in Delhi It might be easy to assume that Justin Trudeaus G20 visit to India was a disaster fraught with humiliation. However, this was just one of the many instances of his trips to India that have been marred by embarrassment. This particular visit falls second only to his 2018 excursion when the Canadian high commissioner extended an invitation to a Sikh extremist named Jaspal Atwal, a convicted individual with a history of attempted murder and ties to a terrorist organisation. Atwal was found guilty of attempting to assassinate an Indian minister back in 1986 and was also implicated in an attack on Ujjal Dosanjh, the former premier of British Columbia. By the time Atwals invitation was revoked, a move that Trudeau termed unfortunate, Atwal had already taken photographs with Trudeaus wife, Sophie, in Mumbai, as well as with other members of Trudeaus entourage. Another Canadian businessman and a member of a Sikh organisation with links to the Khalistan movement, Paramjit Randhawa, had also reportedly arrived in India as a member of the Trudeau delegation. And all of this happened a day after Justin Trudeau had assured Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh that Canada didnt support any separatist movement. 3. Throwing out Ramesh Sangha for criticising Khalistani elements in the Liberal Party Ah, the heartwarming love story between Justin Trudeau and Khalistani elements is truly a modern-day romance for the ages. Its a love so deep that even the slightest criticism of the latter can set off an eruption of outrage from the former. Take, for instance, the case of Ramesh Sangha, the audacious Sikh MP from the Toronto area who had the audacity to criticise fellow MP Navdeep Bains, implying that Bains might just have a soft spot for extremist views and a penchant for all things Khalistan. But fear not, for our beloved Prime Minister Justin Trudeau swiftly swung into action. Upon catching wind of Sanghas baseless and dangerous accusations against Bains, Trudeaus Liberal Party promptly ejected Ramesh Sangha, the Indo-Canadian MP who represents the Brampton Centre constituency in Torontos suburbs. Such swift justice for anyone daring to question the Khalistani allegiance within the Liberal Party! Let us not forget that Sangha, a former Indian Air Force officer hailing from Punjab, had the gall to accuse his own party in 2019 of cosying up to Khalistani separatists, thereby jeopardising relations with India. Of course, Trudeau, in his infinite wisdom, vehemently denied any such support for separatists within his party. Who would ever question that? 4. Cancelling trade talks with the worlds fifth largest economy, signing FTA with the war-torn Ukraine Justin Trudeau, the virtuoso of diplomatic finesse, has treated us to yet another remarkable display of his strategic brilliance. First, he abruptly cancelled trade talks with India, the worlds fifth-largest economy. Because, why not? But fret not, for Trudeau swiftly shifted his attention to Ukraine, a nation ravaged by conflict. During Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys visit to Canada, Trudeau proudly signed an updated Free Trade Agreement and several other bilateral agreements. In his characteristic style, Trudeau claimed that this modernised FTA with war-torn Ukraine would open doors for Canadian businesses to engage in Ukraines economic recovery. After all, when trade negotiations with the worlds fifth-largest economy hit a snag, the logical solution is to pivot to a war-torn nation for high-quality market access. Oh, and lets not forget the delightful twist in the tale: Trudeau had halted trade negotiations with India even before accusing them of foul play. The reason? Vague disagreements on certain issues. Naturally, Canadas priorities are crystal clear. And why not cap it all off by cancelling a trade mission to India, citing Indias concerns about growing Khalistani activities in Canada as the reason? 5. Honouring a Nazi on the floor of House of Commons What happened at the Canadian House of Commons completely defied common sense at all levels. In a move that left everyone scratching their heads, Justin Trudeau decided to honour a literal Nazi in the hallowed halls of the Canadian House of Commons. Yes, you read that right. Trudeau personally met with and bestowed honours upon a veteran of the 14th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS, a division that was, well, a Nazi division. But why stop there? The Liberals even arranged for this Nazi veteran to receive recognition on the floor of the House of Commons during a visit by the Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The speaker of Canadas parliament, Anthony Rota, also hailed this Nazi veteran as a Ukrainian Canadian war hero who fought for Ukrainian independence against the Russians. A standing ovation followed, naturally. Conservative leader Poilievre pointed out that no parliamentarians, except for Trudeau himself, had the opportunity to vet this individuals dark past before he was introduced and honoured in the House of Commons. But who needs context or warning when you can surprise your fellow parliamentarians with an unexpected Nazi tribute? Its truly fascinating to observe the selective amnesia that seems to grip the majority of Justin Trudeaus fan club also. These are the folks who, at the slightest disagreement, dont hesitate to label anyone and everyone as a Nazi, never missing an opportunity to liken their opponents to Hitler himself. But heres where it gets intriguing. When their beloved Trudeau decides to honour an actual Nazi right there in the House of Commons, youd expect them to raise a cacophony of objections, right? Well, think again. The silence emanating from this fan club is nothing short of deafening. Its almost as if their Nazi radar malfunctions when it comes to Trudeaus actions. After all, consistency is not-so-common, especially when it comes to political adoration. In conclusion, making unfounded claims without concrete evidence, Trudeau not only strained India-Canada relations but also undermined Canadas credibility on the global stage. Canada would need to opt for better leaders if it wants to be taken seriously by the international community. The writer takes special interest in history, culture and geopolitics. 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. Peace is fragile and elusive in Manipur, and with even a small spark, unrest spreads like wildfire. Just as the state was slowly moving towards normalcy, albeit in a perpetually tense manner, the discovery of the brutal killing of two students has once again pushed the state to the brink of violence. The fallout is not good for the state, as AFSPA now stands extended in many parts of the state for six months, except for Imphal Valley. The situation is so worrying that the Centre has prematurely transferred Srinagar SSP Rakesh Balwal to his parent cadre, Manipur, where tensions have been high over the past few months. The deaths of two students from the Meitei community have resulted in massive protests in Imphal, and many students were injured in police action as the violent protests were too close for the chief ministers safety. This has only made the already fluid situation more volatile. The internet is down in the state until 5 October. Tabulated statements by the state and Central government in the past have indicated that the situation has stabilised since the ethnic conflict that broke out on 3 May in Manipur. The state government took a step forward and lifted the nearly five-month internet ban, only to take several steps back and reinstate the ban. The current situation in the state bordering Myanmar is a close reminder of the mayhem in May only this time the agitators are students. As state leaders on several occasions have voiced that normalcy has been restored the reality on the ground begs to differ. Thats lip service. It is not coming from the heart, said the chairman of The Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) Pagin. With peace proving to be flickering, people are losing hope in the state and the Central government. The strife-torn state of Manipur has not seen normalcy for months now, as both the Meitei and the Kuki communities have armed themselves, ready for what they call war in the fifth month of the violence. Peace in the state may not descend anytime soon, and the process will be challenging. The bullet holes in the walls shrouding Manipur are screaming for an urgent solution. With MLAs from the North East state parked in Manipur Bhawan in New Delhi, one of the MLAs said that they will not leave the National Capital till a solution has been drawn up. A sort of solution-oriented dharna will continue as the call for Chalo Dilli echoes among both communities. But the clock is ticking. Back in Manipur, on 18 September, Manipur Police, along with Rapid Action Force (RAF) troops, spent the day firing tear gas and dispersing mobs who were blocking roads near the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) hospital. Gunshots echoed on 12 September when suspected militants, disguised as Manipur Police commandos, killed three tribal villagers in Kangpokpi district. The suspected militants quite comfortably crossed through the buffer zones to execute their task, thus rendering the buffer zone useless. Such loopholes are exploited in Manipur by individuals with a vested interest in the ongoing ethnic conflict. The state government alleged that the Central forces resorted to unwanted action against civilians at Pallel in Tengnoupal district on 8 August, in which two people died and several others were injured, and it will apprise the Central government of the issue. However, the Central government has remained tight-lipped on Manipur. Enough is enough, said another MLA. They are tired of carrying hope in their hearts as they embark on the journey to the New Capital and return with empty promises. This time, however, will be different; a middle ground will be worked out, the MLA said. But he mentioned that in August too, a delegation from Manipur had met Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who had advised them to wait until G20 was over. Such incidents did not make it to the prime-time show, and thus, it cannot be assumed that the on-ground reality is peaceful. For peace to prevail, violence needs to stop. The government has been increasing buffer zones and has deployed additional forces in a feeble attempt to control the violence, but that is a temporary measure. It does not mean all is well on the ground. As the G20 summit concluded with a gathering of world leaders, community leaders in Manipur have little hope from the leadership in New Delhi and have mobilised weapons and an army of their own. Sporadic killing incidents amidst an ongoing conflict with gunshots in the peripheral areas of the valley continue unabated. Such incidents, along with frequent roadblocks by women-led organisations or mobs, show the uphill battle the law enforcers are facing in the state. Arms and ammunition remain with civilians, militants, and insurgent outfits until now. As old bunkers disappear from the state, newer makeshift ones bloom across fields, while the army carries out operations to uproot them. Violence in the state will continue with occasional highs and lows, like a stock market graph. According to leaders of communities in the hills and the valley, they have taken the matter into their own hands. We have received threats from other communities, most recently being Cocomi. They said they will remove the barricade in the Thorbung area near Kangwai bordering Churachandpur, Pagin says. Theyre attempting it with the support of Meira Paibis, he adds. We lost many lives in that conflict and have been mourning the lost souls since. Until now, they have not been given justice for their death, he explains. This ongoing conflict will be looked back upon as another black day for all communities. We have an awakening day on 3 May, said Pramot Singh. The Meiteis are adamant on not letting the state divide into two and to keep the integrity of Manipur intact while tribal groups will not settle for anything less than a separate administration. The common fear among tribal leaders is that the Central government might struggle to deliver a political solution. The fear stems from the truth: If history books were to speak, they would describe how New Delhi has failed the tribal communities in the northeast states of the country before, which went unreported. Unfortunately, it took the viral video this time to make headlines. Fights between communities have been an unofficial norm in the state, but why is it different this time? We will keep on demanding separate administration. We cannot stay together with the Meiteis. If a different administration is not done, we cannot agree to any other arrangement, said Pagin. The way forward is that the Centre has to make arrangements for both communities to live as good neighbours but not in the same state. The divide of the state has deepened as the violence has continued irrespective of a political solution. The Kuki-Zomi communities have not received any clear map on how things will work out, and presumably, they (the Centre) are working with both communities. When there is a lull in the battlefield the Central government will act. Till then they are letting it play out on its own, a paramilitary official said. The boycott of the Assembly session on 29 August by all the Kuki MLAs is not a sign of reconciliation either. Meanwhile, the communities in the hills need a temporary arrangement. Law and order will have to be restored temporarily at the very least and a smooth supply of essentials has to be done for them, the ITLF chairman said. Both communities in the state have pushed out their own narratives targetting the other community and justifying their own deeds which have now been fed to the masses. The demand for separate administration echoes in the hills much louder now. The frustration of passing each day amidst chaos has reached its saturation among the masses. Till how long can we continue living with strike days on and off? Whatever may be the decision, it is high time a conclusion is reached, said Sathon, a daily wage worker in Imphal. Around 90 per cent of the population in the state depends on a daily wage. This conflict affects all, said a senior administrative officer. The longer it takes to resolve the issues, the stronger the divide will be. Now it depends on how much the communities are willing to see bloodshed of their people before they come to peaceful terms. Meanwhile, security forces on the ground wait for orders from higher authorities as gunshots and arsoning continue. New strategies and new boundaries have to be established for the forces to defend and protect whatever is left of Manipur. The Central government may have avoided questions for five months now on the ongoing violence in Manipur, but it will have to address it when the green curtain is up or when there is nothing left. The author is a senior journalist. 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. The Indus frontier has shaped Indias history from early times. The Persians, Alexander the Great, Mohammed Ghazni, the Mongols, the Mughals and the Afghans were amongst those who invaded India from this route. The British of course entered by sea disguised as traders but their focus for much of their stay in the sub-continent remained on the threat from this direction as they feared a Russian invasion. They were however caught looking in the wrong direction when the Japanese during World War II attacked India from the East. Post-Independence, the Western threat retained its primacy as Pakistan remained obsessed with its revisionist policy regarding the erstwhile princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, and India witnessed wars in 1947-48, 1965 and 1999 while the proxy war has remained firmly in place initially with the lashkars and more recently through various terrorist groups. However, the Pakistani Army has been consistent in losing all the wars it fought against India. Pakistan PM at UNGA There are certain consistencies in Pakistan that endure, while one of course is the role of the Army the other is the fact that over the years the Pakistan leadership has used the United Nations General Assembly address as a platform to raise the Kashmir issue and attack India on various counts. This year the interim Prime Minister has not not only abided by this narrative but also sharpened the tone and widened the scope. Addressing the General Debate of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly, the interim Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar said Kashmir is the key to peace between Pakistan and India, he said. Predictably he harped upon what he perceived is the illegal occupation of Jammu and Kashmir by India. Talking of terrorism, he referred to countering all terrorists without discrimination, including the rising threat posed by far-right extremist and fascist groups, such as Hindutva-inspired extremists threatening genocide against Indias Muslims and Christians. We also need to oppose state terrorism; address the root causes of terrorism, such as poverty, injustice, and foreign occupation; and distinguish genuine freedom struggles from terrorism. Naturally, he did not touch upon systemic violence against minorities in Pakistan, including the recent large-scale brutality perpetrated against the minority Christian community in August in Jaranwala in Faisalabad District where a total of nineteen churches were gutted and eighty-nine houses of Christian were burnt down. Jaranwala being the latest in a series of violent incidents propagated to persecute minorities that have little to hope for in Pakistan. The states repeated failure to prosecute those responsible for these crimes inspires minimalistic confidence amongst minorities. Pakistan today Anatol Lieven in his analysis of Pakistan; A Hard Country wrote that it remains divided, disorganised, economically backward, corrupt and violent, unjust, oftenly savagely oppressive towards the poor and women and home to extremely dangerous forms of extremism and terrorism. All this remains unchanged in fact it has only worsened over the last ten years since the book was published. The Pakistani Army still remains the institution binding the country. This it does by its constant interference in politics and foreign policy and literally holding the levers of power. It accounts for a major share of the GDP, is deeply entrenched in the economy and is responsible to a large degree for Pakistans failure to develop a stable democratic system. But as per an article in RUSI; The Pakistan Army is the one institution that inculcates a spirit of national unity. For it to survive, constantly blocking peace with India is paramount. Pakistan always harped on its significance due to its geo-strategic location which resulted them in developing their nuclear weapons with the West literally turning a blind eye. Since the NATO exit from Afghanistan, Pakistan no longer enjoys any leverage over Western foreign policy. Its economy is in a free fall and this has resulted in its diminishing role on the global stage. Pakistan has the lowest per capita income in South Asia and highest out-of-school kids in the world. Further, it is facing increasing terror attacks from Afghanistan soil; ironically the Taliban are biting the hand that fed it. There is no doubt it is facing a convergence of economic, security, and political crises. Indias response Petal Gahlot, Indias First Secretary at its Permanent Mission in the UN stressed that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India and Pakistan had no locus standi to comment on the issue. Pakistan has become a habitual offender when it comes to misusing this forum to peddle baseless and malicious propaganda against India. Member states of the UN and other multilateral organisations are well aware that Pakistan does so to deflect the international communitys attention away from its own abysmal record on human rights. Pakistan has been the home and patron to the largest number of internationally proscribed terrorist entities and individuals in the world. Instead of engaging in technical sophistry, we call upon Pakistan to take credible and verifiable action against the perpetrators of the Mumbai terror attacks, whose victims await justice even after fifteen years, Gahlot said in the scathing response. She said Pakistan needs to take three-fold action for there to be peace in South Asia. First, stop cross-border terrorism and shut down its infrastructure of terrorism immediately. Second, vacate Indian territories under its illegal and forcible occupation, and third, stop the grave and persistent human rights violations against the minorities in Pakistan. Conclusion While Pakistan continues to face a multitude of challenges its tactics lie in constantly diverting attention to issues such as Kashmir. But does the threat from India create a national solidarity against the current state of affairs? Serious reform has never been on Pakistans agenda; hence, its ability and willingness to make policy shifts continue to elude them. Statements such as these by a nuclear armed state which continues to use terrorism as an instrument of state policy reinforces the fact that Pakistan is not keen on peace and stability in the region and remains focused on its revisionist agenda. Petal Gahlot has rightly pointed out that Pakistan has become a habitual offender when it comes to misusing this august forum to peddle baseless and malicious propaganda against India. Member states of the United Nations and other multilateral organisations are well aware that Pakistan does so to deflect the international communitys attention away from its own abysmal record on human rights. The author is a retired Major General of the Indian Army. 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. As India grows as a global power, competitors seek to tear it down. China occupies a portion of Ladakh roughly the size of Kerala and covets Arunachal Pradesh. Pakistan continues to sponsor terrorism aimed at Kashmir but, as Kashmir experiences an economic and political renaissance because of the revocation of Article 370, Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency increasingly sets its sights on destabilizing Punjab. Not all adversaries use military means. Because India is not only the worlds largest democracy, but also among the worlds most diverse states linguistically, religiously, and ethnically, the countrys detractors find no shortage of domestic fault lines to exploit with cherry-picked facts and false narratives. Television cameras do not lie, but they also do not give a broad perspective. Manipurs violence was not rooted in religion Take for example this past summers violence in Manipur. Outside of India, journalists who had never been to Manipur described the brief orgy of violence through a sectarian lens. Hindu nationalists, the propaganda went, were persecuting innocent Christians because of their religion. Such a narrative was as naive as it was inaccurate. Ethnic tension has simmered in Manipur for decades, often exacerbated by clumsy attempts by governments who, in the name of social justice, seek to privilege minorities rather than seek equal footing for all citizens under the law regardless of religion, sect, language, or ethnicity. Rather than win peace, this often breeds conflict. It is a moral hazard. Certainly, this has been the case with the many Manipur Christians whose Naga and Kuki clans the government listed as scheduled tribes since 1956, and who now seek to permanently enshrine their privilege relative to anyone else in the region. Ethnic tension, some with secondary sectarian dimensions, is nothing new in the region. On 4 December, 1979, for example, the New York Times headlined an article, Indias Christian Tribes Are Angered by Influx of Bengalis. The difference in American reaction then and now may have more to do with the fact that prime minister Charan Singh was secular and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is religious. Americans, however, are not always aware of our biases. Regardless, while Manipur is generally calm and peaceful, illegal immigration and drug smuggling occasionally undercut regional peace. This was the case this past summer. After the government introduced reform measures to make most residents equal under the law, some activists within the largely Christian Kuki tribe took to the streets in protest, fearing that bestowing the same rights on the largely Hindu Meitei group that the Kukis themselves enjoyed would constitute a threat. The influx of Kuki refugees fleeing Myanmars military crackdown added fuel to the fire, just as the influx of Palestinian refugees fleeing Jordans 1970 Black September crackdown sparked unrest in Lebanon as Palestinian refugees shifted that countrys delicate sectarian balance. Adding to the perfect storm was Indias crackdown on opium cultivation. Many Kukis who fled Burma resumed opium cultivation on the Indian side of the border, and many Christians therefore benefited directly or indirectly from the trade. Local Christians may have been upset, but to stop drug cultivation and the heroin trade was no more anti-Christian in Manipur than opium eradication efforts were Islamophobic in Afghanistan. None of this justifies subsequent violence. Some Kuki and Meitei burned each others houses and businesses. Kukis burned mosques while Meitei rioters targeted churches. The abuse perpetrated against some Kuki women is inexcusable. The Indian Supreme Court is correct to monitor the resulting criminal case as prosecutors seek to bring the perpetrators to justice. While the crimes are inexcusable, the context by which they occurred is also important to understand (though not excuse) them: How can the Manipur violence be rooted in anti-Christian sentiment when rioters did not touch churches belonging to the Naga, the regions other largely Christian ethnic group? This suggests the problem was never religion. The vulnerability of all democracies to propaganda Professional activists, some of whose funding is opaque or raise money through anonymous Gofundme donations that often seem to come directly or indirectly from a single country or its agents, sought to shape a narrative that Manipur proved that Modi was a Hindu nationalist bent on targeting Christians. Pieter Friedrich, a gadfly California-based activist, launched one of his frequent brief self-declared but never confirmed hunger strikes to demand Hindu politicians in the United States condemn anti-Christian repression. Most policymakers dismiss such cheap and dishonest theatrics. They realise their genesis is not in the suburbs of Sacramento or Vancouver but in Islamabad. Still, as activists throw mud at the wall to see what sticks, some dirt gets through, be it in news reports or even how the US. Commission on International Religious Freedom shapes some of the violence. The need to absorb such cheap shots and inaccuracies by those prone to cherry-pick is just the price democracies pay. While polemicists argue systematic racism besets the United States, for example, they ignore that close to 90 per cent of African American murder victims are killed by other African Americans. Nor does the systematic racism canard explain the overrepresentation of Nigerian immigrants in medicine and on university faculties. The same narratives about Islamophobia also collapse in the face of data: American Muslims are on a per capita basis wealthier than the average American. FBI statistics regularly show Jews suffer hate crimes at more than five times the rate of Muslims. Regardless, counting 1,600 hate crimes in a country of over 30 crore people suggests not a country at war with itself, but rather one of tolerance. India to the rescue of the worlds oldest Christian state While Indias detractors cherry-pick and spread the calumny of systematic anti-Christian bias, the current governments actions tell another story. Consider Armenia: The countrys historical importance as the worlds first Christian country, converted in 301 AD, is inversely proportional to its size: the entire countrys population is less than the city of Lucknow. Armenians survived a genocide perpetrated by Ottoman Turks that killed more than one million. Unlike Germanys Holocaust against the Jews, however, the perpetrating countryits successor Turkey [Turkiye]refuses to acknowledge historical truth. That is bad enough, but in recent decades, it and its ally Azerbaijan have incited that genocides renewal. Azerbaijan faces no consequence for destroying one of the worlds oldest and largest Christian cemeteries at Julfa, a crime comparable to the Talibans destruction of the Bamiyan Buddhas, due to the cemeteries thousands of ancient and intricately carved cross-stones, all of which are now gone. Both Turkey and Azerbaijan continue to blockade Armenia. The September 2020 attack by Azerbaijan and Turkey on the Armenian-populated region of Nagorno-Karabakh occurred on the 100th anniversary of the Ottoman invasion of the same territory. While many international leaders cite sovereignty issues to excuse Azerbaijani repressions of the Christians of Nagorno-Karabakh or, for that matter, Pakistans repression of Hindus, these territorial disputes are not the real problem. Azerbaijans leader claims the entirety of Armenia, including the capital Yerevan as Azerbaijani territory. In recent months, Azerbaijani troops have crossed Armenias recognized international frontiers. Much of the world remains silent. Out of sheer anti-Christian animosity, Pakistan even refuses to recognize Armenias right to exist as a nation. British Petroleum (BP)s lucrative contracts with Azerbaijan effectively silence the United Kingdom. Washington makes empty statements but stands aside as Azerbaijanis reportedly seize Armenian children and women in a replay of the Yezidi genocide. Every US president since George W. Bush up to Joe Biden even funds its persecutors. India, however, is the exception. While the world ignores Armenia and aids its destruction, India is the country that sends it military goods to help Armenia defend itself from those who seek to eliminate the oldest Christian state. India may have some self-interest: as Turkey, Azerbaijan, Pakistan, and China seek to block in India, Armenia becomes the node by which India can access much of Eurasia. Indian engineers, medical doctors, and programmers collaborate with Armenia to jump-start the countrys economy, especially in the tech, pharmaceutical, and university spheres. Does this also benefit India? Yes, but that does not change the fact that India has come to the rescue of Christians whereas the United States, the United Kingdom, and Russia turn a blind eye and Pakistan, Azerbaijan, and Turkey cheer their demise. It is fair to criticise Modis policies in the course of political debate. It is not fair, however, to slander a country that does more now to protect Christians in practice than those countries in which critics of Indias position toward Christianity now sit. The author is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute in Washington, DC. 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. China has released its first list of 26 mobile app stores that have provided their business details to regulators, but notably, Apples app store is absent from the list. This list, published by the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), the countrys primary internet regulator, includes app distribution platforms run by major tech players like Xiaomi, Samsung Electronics, Tencent Holdings, Baidu, Oppo, Vivo, and Huawei Technologies. However, Apple, which ranks as the fourth-largest smartphone brand in China based on second-quarter shipments, is conspicuously missing. Other registered platforms encompass Alipay, the payment platform operated by Ant Group, as well as ZTE, Coolpad, Nubia, and Lenovo. This development follows a regulation introduced by the CAC in August 2022, which required app distribution platforms, covering app stores and mini-program platforms like WeChat, to submit specific information for registration. The regulation holds app stores responsible for policing the apps in their stores and mandates the rejection of apps containing illegal or harmful content. It also stipulates that app stores must collaborate with and support supervision and inspection by the CAC and other regulatory bodies. The CAC, in a statement accompanying the published list, emphasized that it does not endorse the service capabilities or existing apps of any platform. In August, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology announced that failure to register during the period from September to March the following year could result in penalties, though the specific consequences were not detailed. The requirement for mobile app providers to share business information with the government has raised concerns among independent Chinese software developers, who fear that it could impede local innovation and hinder access to overseas software. The filing process, which can take up to 20 days, might prevent local providers from swiftly launching apps and making continuous improvements through rapid updates, which is a common business model. In recent years, Beijing has intensified its internet regulation efforts, targeting a wide range of content, from online education to video games. The total number of apps in China, which serves as an indicator of the countrys digital economy, has also declined. Following Beijings regulatory crackdown on major internet firms, there were 2.6 million apps operating in China last year, marking a 25% decrease from the 3.5 million available in 2020. OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT backed by Microsoft, has officially announced that the chatbot can now access the internet to provide users with real-time information. Previously, this artificial intelligence-powered system was trained using data only up to September 2021. This new capability allows some premium users to ask the chatbot questions about current events and access up-to-date news. OpenAI has plans to extend this feature to all users, including non-paying users, in the near future. ChatGPT goes online Earlier this week, OpenAI also revealed that ChatGPT will soon be able to engage in voice conversations with users. ChatGPT and similar systems leverage extensive data to generate responses that closely resemble human interactions. These advancements are expected to significantly alter how people seek information online. Up to this point, ChatGPTs knowledge has been static, drawn from the internets content as of September 2021. It lacked the ability to browse the web in real-time. For instance, if asked about the most recent earthquake in Turkey or the current status of Donald Trump, it would respond with, Im sorry, but I cannot provide real-time information. The inability to offer information on recent events had deterred some potential users. Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, a professor of business psychology at University College London, pointed out that this new functionality would make ChatGPT a source of the latest news, gossip, and current events. He noted that the implication is that it will absorb many of the questions and inquiries that would otherwise go to search engines or news outlets. How accurate will an up-to-date ChatGPT be? However, Chamorro-Premuzic cautioned that using ChatGPT as a search tool has potential downsides. While it offers quick responses to pressing questions, there are concerns about the accuracy and reliability of the information provided, especially if ChatGPT doesnt cite its sources. OpenAI has already faced scrutiny from US regulators regarding the risk of ChatGPT generating false information. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) sent a letter earlier this year, asking for information on how OpenAI addresses risks to individuals reputations. In response, OpenAIs CEO committed to working with the FTC. Why was ChatGPTs free version so late to the internet? Several factors contributed to the delay in allowing ChatGPT to search the internet for current information, including computing costs and concerns about accuracy, privacy, and ethics. ChatGPT has been cautious about providing real-time data to avoid the potential introduction of inaccuracies, as well as the risk of accessing copyrighted content without permission. These new functionalities of ChatGPT underscore the significant dilemma facing the AI sector. To be truly useful, AI systems need more freedom and flexibility, but this also increases the risk of misuse and the potential for inaccuracies and misinformation. A study commissioned by the European Commission has found that X, formerly known as Twitter, exhibits the highest proportion of disinformation among six major social networks. The study analyzed over 6,000 unique social media posts across Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, and YouTube, focusing on content in three countries Spain, Poland, and Slovakia identified as particularly susceptible to disinformation due to elections or proximity to the war in Ukraine. X has the highest ratio of discoverability of disinformation, indicating that it contained the largest proportion of sensitive content composed of disinformation. In contrast, YouTube had the lowest ratio of disinformation, according to the study. Vera Jourova, the EUs Values and Transparency Commissioner, issued a warning to X, stating, My message for X is, you have to comply with the hard law. Well be watching what youre doing. She emphasized that X, along with other large tech platforms, would be subject to the EUs Digital Services Act (DSA), which aims to regulate the conduct of these platforms. The voluntary code of practice on disinformation, which X and others signed up to in 2018, is set to be converted into a code of conduct under the DSA. Despite Xs withdrawal from the voluntary code while under Elon Musks leadership, the company will still be held accountable under the fully enforced DSA. Companies that fail to comply with the act could face fines of up to six per cent of their global turnover. Mr Musk knows that he is not off the hook by leaving the code of practice because now we have the Digital Services Act fully enforced, Jourova said. The European Union has been increasingly concerned about the spread of disinformation, particularly in the context of Russian disinformation campaigns following the invasion of Ukraine. The EU accused social media companies of failing to halt large-scale Russian disinformation efforts, which were amplified by Kremlin-backed accounts. The EUs Values and Transparency Commissioner described these efforts as a multi-million euro weapon of mass manipulation aimed at Europeans and emphasized the urgency of addressing this risk, especially in the context of the war in Ukraine and upcoming European elections. Additionally, the EU is actively working to combat AI-generated disinformation ahead of elections, with discussions with organizations like OpenAI to address these challenges. The GOP opened a clown car of MAGA witnesses at today's Biden impeachment inquiry. One of the first to emerge was George Washington University Law Professor Jonathan Turley. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) wasted no time in exposing Turley's bizarre beliefs, which included advocating on behalf of a polygamist who raped a 13-year-old. Turley's defense? "I admit, I'm pretty libertarian." Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi: Professor Turley, in 2006 You wrote an op ed in The Guardian entitled, "Stop persecuting polygamists." There, you like in polygamists to "persecuted minorities" and you said polygamy is "a practice with deep and good-faith religious meaning." Isn't that what you said? Jonathan Turley: I represented the Sister Wives, a family, in challenging a polygamy prosecution Krishnamoorthi: The answer is yes, you've been crusading for legalizing polygamy for years. In fact, in an op ed in the USA Today, you said that a Utah polygamist named Tom Green, who was also convicted of pedophilia for raping his 13-year-old stepdaughter should not have been charged with polygamy. Now, Mr. Chairman Turley: Can I respond because it's not entirely accurate? I actually criticized him, what I was dealing with was the constitutionality of what is called morals legislation. And I admit I'm pretty libertarian Krishnamoorthi: Was Tom Green convicted of pedophilia and rape? The answer is yes. Mr. Chairman, we're counting down the hours until the government shutdown and here we have a hearing where one we have one witness who defended a polygamist who was convicted of pedophilia and rape. And we have another witness with LinkedIn accounts with extreme views posted. I think that unfortunately, this speaks to the credibility of the witnesses and the credibility of this impeachment inquiry. This conversation must be confusing for folks in the MAGA world, where the word "pedophile" simply means "a person Trump told me not to like," and doesn't have anything to do with actual pedophiles. Despite Warsaws claim that none of its helicopters had crossed the border, Belarus claimed on Thursday that a Polish helicopter had violated its airspace. Russias invasion of Ukraine in February of last year further worsened already tense ties between the neighbours. Around 1520 (1220 GMT) the aircraft crossed the border of the Republic of Belarus, flew to a depth of up to 1.5 kilometres. At 1622, the helicopter repeatedly violated the state border, going 300 metres deep, the Ministry of Defence of Belarus said on its Telegram channel. Belarus, Russias closest ally, declared that it had responded by scrambling military planes. The Operational Command unequivocally denies these reports, a spokesperson of the Operational Command of the Armed Forces told the media. None of the Polish helicopters crossed the airspace of Belarus. (With agency inputs) Despite a recent Supreme Court judgement declaring the endeavour unlawful, Brazils Senate adopted a bill on Wednesday that limits Indigenous peoples rights to ancestral lands. The so-called time-frame argument at the heart of the debate contends that Indigenous peoples should not be allowed to establish protected reserves on grounds where they did not exist in 1988, when the countrys current constitution was enacted. Indigenous organisations, on the other hand, maintained in a lawsuit that such an approach infringed their rights, given that many indigenous people were pushed off their ancestral lands, particularly during the military dictatorship that governed Brazil from the 1960s to the 1980s. Last week, the countrys highest court ruled in favour of Indigenous activists and climate activists. But the Senate on Wednesday approved the bill centered on the time-frame argument, with 43 votes for and 21 against. Last year the bill, championed by the countrys powerful agro-business lobby, had cleared the legislatures lower chamber. Senate President Rodrigo Pacheco insisted there is no confrontation between his chamber and the Supreme Court. This is simply a position of the Senate, given that we believe that matters of this nature must be deliberated by parliament, he said. Environmentalists had joined Indigenous activists in pressing for the top court to reject the time-frame argument. Numerous studies have found that protected Indigenous reservations are one of the best ways to fight deforestation and, with it, climate change. Burkina Fasos military government said Wednesday it had foiled a coup attempt the previous day, almost a year after the countrys leader came to power in a coup himself. In a statement read out on state television, it said a proven coup attempt was foiled on 26 September, 2023 by Burkina Fasos intelligence and security services. At present, officers and other alleged participants in this destabilisation attempt have been arrested and others are being actively sought. It said the alleged perpetrators had the sinister intention of attacking the institutions of the Republic and plunging the country into chaos. Junta leader Captain Ibrahim Traore seized power on 30 September, 2022, the landlocked countrys second coup in eight months. The two takeovers were each triggered in part by discontent at failures to stem a raging jihadist insurgency which swept in from neighbouring Mali in 2015. Late on Tuesday thousands of people took to the streets of the capital Ouagadougou following a call from Traore supporters to defend him amid rumours of a coup on social media. The military government said it would seek to shed all possible light on this plot. It said it regrets that officers whose oath is to defend their homeland have strayed into an undertaking of this nature, which aims to hinder the Burkinabe peoples march for sovereignty and total liberation from the terrorist hordes trying to enslave them. Multiple past plots Earlier this month, the countrys military prosecutor said three soldiers had been arrested and charged with plotting against the ruling junta. Investigators had received a tipoff about soldiers and former soldiers working in intelligence who were scouting out the homes and other locations used by key figures in the junta, including Traore. Their goal was to destabilise the transition, it said, referring to a term used to describe interim military rule before promised elections. Shortly after Traores takeover, military prosecutors in December 2022 also said there had been an attempt to destabilise state institutions. Those behind it, they said, were civilians and a lieutenant-colonel named Emmanuel Zoungrana. More than 17,000 civilians and troops have died in jihadist attacks in Burkina Faso, according to a count by an NGO monitor called the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED). Over two million people have also been uprooted, making it one of the worst internal displacement crises in Africa. Anger within the Burkinabe armed forces led to a coup in January 2022, toppling elected president Roch Marc Christian Kabore. On September 30, Kabores nemesis, Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, was himself overthrown. Last week the government claimed nearly 192,000 internally displaced people had returned to their homes after various regions were retaken by government forces. Jihadist attacks continue unabated despite government claims to have wrested back territory. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday offered an unreserved apology in parliament after the legislature publicly if unwittingly celebrated a Ukrainian World War II veteran whod fought alongside the Nazis. The incident last week during a visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has shaken Canada, prompted the speaker of parliament to step down and triggered diplomatic turmoil. I would like to present unreserved apologies for what took place on Friday and to President Zelensky and the Ukrainian delegation for the position they were put in, for all of us who were present, Trudeau told lawmakers. To have unknowingly recognised this individual was a terrible mistake and a violation of the memory of those who suffered grievously at the hands of the Nazi regime. The Canadian leader was referring to an embarrassing incident that marred a visit by Zelensky last week, sparking an uproar that led to the resignation of the speaker on Tuesday. The Ukrainian president was in Canada as part of a tour to bolster Western support for his countrys struggle against Russian invasion. Zelensky was in the chamber as guest of honor when the speaker, Anthony Rota, name-checked the elderly veteran as a World War II hero, prompting a standing ovation. It emerged afterward that the veteran had served in a Nazi-linked military unit. Trudeau said earlier Wednesday that the mistake deeply embarrassed Parliament, and Canada, and he was apologizing in front of all Canadians and the Jewish people around the world. It was a horrendous violation of the memory of the millions of people who died in the Holocaust, Trudeau said. Rota stepped down, saying he had profound regret for my error and the pain he caused to Jewish communities in Canada and elsewhere. Trudeaus government has been under intense pressure over the affair, which Conservative opposition leader Pierre Poilievre described as the biggest single diplomatic embarrassment in Canadas history. At the high-profile event for Zelensky, Rota had hailed Yaroslav Hunka as a Ukrainian-Canadian war veteran from the Second World War who fought for Ukrainian independence against the Russians and a Ukrainian hero and a Canadian hero. Hunka served in the 14th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS, a Nazi military unit whose crimes against humanity during the Holocaust are well-documented, according to the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center. The Jewish advocacy group called the incident shocking and incredibly disturbing. Russia quickly jumped on the issue, saying Canada now had to bring to justice the 98-year-old man. Moscow has for years tried to paint the pro-Western Ukrainian government led by Zelensky who is Jewish as neo-Nazi and has used the messaging intensively on its state-controled media to justify the invasion of Ukraine to the Russian people. Russias ambassador to Canada, Oleg Stepanov, blasted the outrageous commemoration and called on Trudeau to apologize to Moscow for Hunka and his units multiple war crimes against the Russian people. Canada has the second largest Ukrainian diaspora in the world after Russia. Trudeau said I also want to reiterate how deeply sorry Canada is for the situation this put President Zelensky and the Ukrainian delegation, and he signaled that Ottawa had already contacted Kyiv and Zelensky to apologize. It is extremely troubling to think that this egregious error is being politicized by Russia and its supporters to provide false propaganda about what Ukraine is fighting for. The inventor of the generative AI platform ChatGPT, OpenAI, said Wednesday that the software can now collect data straight from the internet and gather up-to-date information in real-time. Until recently, ChatGPTs replies to user questions were based on a massive database that did not include data until August 2021. ChatGPT can now browse the internet to provide you with current and authoritative information, complete with direct links to sources, OpenAI said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. It is no longer limited to data before September 2021. It also stated that the most recent addition will enable sites to manage how ChatGPT interacts with them. OpenAI sent the upgrade to paying customers in June, but it was halted after users discovered how to circumvent paywalls on online content. The Browse with Bing option is also restricted for paying ChatGPT Plus and Enterprise members, but OpenAI stated it will soon be available to all users. Microsofts Bing Chat, a fusion of GPT-4, the language model used to construct ChatGPT, with its internet search engine, is already available, as is Googles conversational robot Bard. ChatGPT will give direct sources with its replies, which will no longer rely on the programs publishers sole database. The communist regime in Beijing well received the outreach Pope Francis made to China earlier this month while he was in Mongolia because it allowed a mainland bishop to travel to Hong Kong, according to the archbishop of Hong Kong. On September 3, the pope conveyed greetings to China from the capital of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, describing its people as noble and urging Catholics there to be good Christians and good citizens. Francis enlisted Chow and Cardinal John Tong Hon, his predecessor as the Archbishop of Hong Kong, to stand to the sides of him while he spoke when he made the spontaneous remarks. I was touched and I know the Holy Father was playing hard to get the message across to China. I was told later from some reliable source that his message was well received in China, even in the government, Chow said. Chow, the top Catholic official in Hong Kong, visited the Chinese capital in April for the first time in nearly 30 years. There are 600,000 Catholics in the former British territory. I think we have built up some type of relationships, some friendships, Chow said, speaking of his April visit I have invited bishop (Joseph) Li Shan, the bishop of Beijing to come down to Hong Kong. I think they are really considering it very seriously so hopefully this will happen, Chow said. Asked if Li had received permission to travel, Chow said He has, he has. Asked if Li would be coming, Chow said I think this has to be finalised, but he repeated that Li had received permission. Beijing has been enforcing allegiance to the Communist Party and eradicating foreign influences through its Sinicization of religion programme. In China, there are thought to be 1012 million Catholics. A historic deal reached in 2018 between the Vatican and China on the appointment of bishops has been at best shaky, and the Vatican has complained that Beijing has broken it repeatedly. Conservative members of the Church have charged the Vatican with betraying Christendom by entering into the agreement, which has thrice been extended. According to the Vatican, a flawed agreement is preferable than no conversation at all. In order to prevent incidents like when the new bishop of Shanghai was installed without consulting with the Vatican, Chow expressed the hope that he would be able to encourage more and better communication between the Vatican and Beijing. I think that there should be more dialogue, more opportunities and more willingness to open up (because) when dialogue is not sufficient we make assumptions and that is where things break down. So if we talk more those assumptions can be tested out, he said. (With agency inputs) China unveiled its first high-speed rail line on Thursday, which will go through multiple bays and skim down the coast of the southeastern province of Fujian near the Taiwan Strait. According to Xinhua, a bullet train left Fuzhou, the capital of east Chinas Fujian province, on Thursday morning, paving the way for the inauguration of the 277-kilometer (172-mile) Fuzhou-Xiamen-Zhangzhou railway. The countrys railway operator, China State Railway Group Co Ltd, claimed it is the countrys first cross-sea, rapid line with bullet trains that would pass over bridges spanning three coastal bays and reach peak speeds of 350 km/h (218 mph). The trip from Fuzhou to Xiamen, an economic powerhouse and major tourist destination, will take less than an hour. China Railway Siyuan Survey and Design Group Co Ltd designed the railway project. By 2022, China had 42,000 km of operational high-speed railway, and the length of high-speed rail regularly operating at 350 km per hour neared 3,200 km as of June 2022. China recently announced details of its plan to turn Fujian into a zone for integrated development with Taiwan, which sits opposite the province. China is hoping the link will enhance investment opportunities and make travel easier. A Chinese government official said an integrated multidimensional transportation network has been built in Fujian that will make it technically possible to construct a high-speed transport passage linking the province with Taiwan, according to state media. Separately, earlier this week China unveiled its first commercial suspended monorail line in Wuhan, the capital of Hubei province. The monorail, covering 10.5 km (6.5 miles), is fully automated and only requires human operation in an emergency, China Daily reported. China said Thursday it had offered humanitarian assistance in the recent release of a US soldier from captivity in North Korea. Travis King, 23, had been held in North Korea since July, when he crossed over the Demilitarized Zone from South Korea. After nearly three months, he passed through the North Korean border to China with the help of Swedish diplomats, where he was handed over to the US ambassador and a senior military officer on Wednesday. He then flew out to a US military base. And, in a rare example of US-China cooperation, Beijing confirmed Thursday it had offered help. At the request of the North Korean and US sides, China has provided necessary assistance from a humanitarian perspective, foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said, when asked about the case. US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Wednesday thanked China for its assistance in facilitating the transit of Private King. China is North Koreas longtime treaty ally and main economic benefactor. But China did not mediate with North Korea for Kings release and the United States made no concessions full stop to Pyongyang, a senior US administration official said. A Senate employee told Reuters on Wednesday that Chinese hackers who infiltrated Microsofts email network this year stole tens of thousands of emails from US State Department accounts. The worker, who was present at a briefing by State Department IT personnel, stated that the authorities informed senators that 60,000 emails were taken from ten State Department accounts. According to the briefing data given through email by the worker who declined to be identified, nine of those victims worked in East Asia and the Pacific, while one worked in Europe. The staffer works for Senator Eric Schmitt. Chinese state-linked hackers hacked email accounts at roughly 25 organisations, including the US Commerce and State Departments, according to US authorities and Microsoft in July. The extent of the compromise is unknown. The United States suspicions that China was responsible for the breach have exacerbated the nations already poor relationship, as Beijing has refuted the allegations. According to the Wednesday briefing, the State Department employees whose accounts were hijacked mostly focused on Indo-Pacific diplomatic operations, and the hackers also got a list including all of the departments correspondence. The sweeping hack has refocused attention on Microsofts outsize role in providing IT services to the US government. The State Department has begun moving to hybrid environments with multiple vendor companies and improved uptake of multi-factor authentication, as part of measures to protect its systems, according to the officials at the briefing. The hackers compromised a Microsoft engineers device, which allowed them to breach the State Departments email accounts, according to the briefing. Microsoft earlier this month said that a hack of senior officials at the US State and Commerce Departments stemmed from the compromise of a Microsoft engineers corporate account. We need to harden our defences against these types of cyberattacks and intrusions, Schmitt said in a statement shared by the staffer in an email to Reuters following the briefing. We need to take a hard look at the federal governments reliance on a single vendor as a potential weak point, he said. A Microsoft spokesman did not have an immediate comment on the Senate briefing. The company, which has faced criticism over its security practices since the breaches, has said that the hacking group behind them dubbed Storm-0558 had broken into webmail accounts running on the firms Outlook service. The State Department did not immediately return a message seeking comment on Wednesday, and Schmitt wasnt available for an interview. In the midst of the diplomatic uproar between India and Canada caused by the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is set to meet US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington on Thursday. The most recent diplomatic crisis between two of Americas allies, its traditional ally Canada and India, is anticipated to be a major topic of discussion during the discussions, while officials from both sides are mum on the agenda. After the meeting with Blinken, Jaishankar is also scheduled to meet US Trade Representative Ambassador Katherine Tai in a closed press meeting in Washington, DC. Besides, he is expected to have a series of meetings with senior officials of the Biden administration, review the progress made between the two countries after the historic State Visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June and talk about other regional and global issues. The minister is also expected to engage with the diaspora, think-tank community and interact with leaders from the corporate sector. Responding to questions about the meeting between Jaishankar and Blinken at the Foggy Bottom headquarters of the State Department on Thursday afternoon, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller said, I dont want to preview the conversations he (Blinken) will have in that meeting (with Jaishankar) , but as weve made clear, weve raised this; we have engaged with our Indian counterparts on this and encouraged them to cooperate with the Canadian investigation, and we continue to encourage them to cooperate. The two leaders are expected to pose for pictures ahead of the meeting and are not expected to take any questions from the media. While the meeting between the two top diplomats was scheduled much before the Canadian crisis broke out, the US has been urging India to cooperate in the Canadian investigation into the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia early this year. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has alleged that the Indian government was behind the killing of Nijjar, 45, outside a gurdwara in Surrey in British Columbia on 18 June. India had designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020. India has rejected the allegations as absurd and motivated and expelled a senior Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move to Ottawas expulsion of an Indian official. India has also asked Canada to crack down on terrorists and anti-India elements operating from its soil and suspended visa services for Canadians. Miller said that the issue did not come up for discussion in New York during the Quad ministerial that involved foreign ministers of the US, India, Japan and Australia. It was a meeting of a number of countries and it did not come up in that meeting. But we have engaged with our Indian counterparts on this issue and urged them to fully cooperate with the Canadian investigation, the State Department spokesperson said. Jaishankar arrived in the American capital from New York after attending the annual General Assembly meetings of the United Nations on Tuesday. The United States is to be panda-free for the first time in 50 years, reports Bloomberg News, with the bears on loan to zoos here set to return them to China no later than next year. Although both sides deny politics are at play, China has long used "Panda Diplomacy" to curry favor, reward friends and punish adversaries. And the loss of America's last pandas comes at a moment when ties between the U.S. and China have hit a historic low, with most avenues of cooperation cut off. In the same vein, any hope that Washington will get new pandas rests on recent signs that ties might be getting a little better or, at the very least, not getting worse. "There's some significance to the fact that all of the pandas in the United States will be back in China by next year," said Elena Songster, a professor at Saint Mary's College of California and author of "Panda Nation," a book about China's panda policy. "They have a plan. They know what they're doing." The European Unions migration ministers meet in Brussels on Thursday to discuss how to handle migrants arriving by sea as Italy and Germany worry over increased immigration, with Berlin launching border controls inside Europes zone of open travel. The ministers will have another go at agreeing a long-stalled mechanism to share out asylum seekers who reach Europe beyond regular border posts, and discuss whether the 27-nation bloc should seek a deal with Egypt to prevent more people from embarking from the southern shores of the Mediterranean. Critics have said a recent such agreement with Tunisia falls short on human rights but more potential deals are on the cards as Rome sounds alarm over Lampedusa arrivals topping those in 2022 when Italys Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni won national elections on an anti-immigration ticket. There is a lot of unrest in (the) direct neighbourhood of Europe, said one senior EU diplomat. As to whether we should or should not have more such agreements, the answer is most likely going to be a yes from a majority around the table. Focus is on Germany and whether Interior Minister Nancy Faeser brings a coalition deal to Brussels that would allow Berlin to back the so-called crisis mechanism for distributing refugees and migrants in the bloc to avoid overwhelming Italy and other countries of first entry. On Wednesday, Faeser announced border checks with neighbouring Poland and the Czech Republic after Germany saw a nearly-80% rise in asylum requests so far this year, a concern for the centre-left ruling coalition facing a challenge from the far-right in local elections in Bavaria next month. Such controls inside what should normally be the EUs zone of open travel highlight how difficulties in handling those fleeing wars and poverty in the Middle East, Africa and south Asia challenge cooperation inside the bloc. The EU has been pushing tougher anti-immigration policies since more than a million people reached its southern shores in 2015, catching the bloc by surprise and overwhelming security and reception capacities in countries including Italy. The 27-member governments have since struggled to modernise their shared asylum and migration rules including the crisis mechanism especially as they want to look in control for their voters ahead of a pan-EU parliamentary election in 2024. EU commissioners expressed optimism the bloc would finally on Thursday agree on a reformed migration policy package after Germany signalled its backing. We are now nearing the big agreement that Europe needs after many years of failures, Commissioner Margaritis Schinas said as he went into a meeting of EU interior ministers. Hopefully today they can agree on the last piece of the pact, which had been holding up its adoption, fellow commissioner Ylva Johansson said. Paralysis on the issue has caused frustration in the 27-nation bloc as it faces a rise in irregular migration. The arrival of thousands of asylum-seekers on the Italian island of Lampedusa has spurred urgency to get the revised pact on migration and asylum in place. The aim of the reform, introduced three years ago, is to have EU states share the obligation to look after the arrivals, either by taking in some of the migrants who mainly come to Italy or Greece or contributing money to countries that do. But Germany had baulked at some of the hardline proposals in it, which include lengthening the detention period of irregular migrants arriving on EU soil from 12 weeks to 20 weeks. It wanted less strict policies applied to minors and families. Going into the Brussels meeting, German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said she was confident that we will achieve a good result in the end and that her government would achieve the modifications it wanted to the package. For us, it is important that even in the event of a crisis a state does not make use of it recklessly to then lower standards, she said. The text, drawn up by the European Commission, is in part a bid to forge Europe-wide solidarity in case of a repeat of the massive 2015-2016 influx of asylum-seekers, most of whom were Syrians fleeing their civil war. An earlier attempt to get the reform adopted in July failed when the required weighted majority of EU countries was not met. Hungary, Poland, Austria and the Czech Republic voted against the package, while Germany, Slovakia and the Netherlands abstained. Ministers from other EU countries also expressed optimism that they could get the pact over the line. We are very close to an agreement, Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska said. He was chairing the meeting under his countrys tenure of the rotating EU presidency. His Austrian counterpart Gerhard Karner said he was happy and grateful that there has been movement in the last few hours, in the last few days on the dossier. Major political convergence Schinas said We are very encouraged by the signals coming out of Berlin which suggests a major political convergence on the issue. To add pressure to the haggling, the European Parliament last week paused negotiations with EU member states on other aspects of the pact, those dealing with reinforced security along the blocs outer border. One relates to Eurodac, a biometric database for asylum-seekers, and the introduction of a mandatory screening procedure for irregular arrivals. The goal of the EU is to have the reform adopted before the European elections next June which will usher in a new European Parliament and Commission. The next cycle in EU politics could see a political shift in the European Parliament, given the rise of right-wing parties in several EU countries, and would see Hungary and Poland both hostile to hosting asylum-seekers take turns holding the rotating EU presidency that sets policy agendas. A government-appointed gender equality body in France has revealed in a study that up to 90% of explicit content online depicts verbal, physical, and sexual harm towards women, with a substantial portion of this violence being illegal under existing laws in France. The High Council for Gender Equality in France delivered a strongly critical report to the government, calling for legal reforms to prosecute pornography producers and to remove harmful content to safeguard those who have been featured. Following more than 18 months of investigations and the analysis of countless videos on major international adult websites, the report highlighted that in numerous videos, women were portrayed using demeaning sexist and racist stereotypes, enduring humiliation, objectification, dehumanization, physical assault, and torture actions that violate both human dignity and French law. The report stated, The women are real, the sexual acts and violence are real, and the suffering is often prominently displayed and simultaneously sexualized. Additionally, the report cited the view of the French state prosecutor that the majority of pornography contained verbal and physical violence, which contravened French legislation. A substantial portion of the content was classified as torture, and the report stressed that any so-called contracts in this context were legally null and void since an individual cannot provide consent for torture, sexual exploitation, or trafficking. The report called for the punishment of recorded acts of violence, asserting their illegality. The report strongly criticized the French government and authorities for their inaction over the years, despite persistent advocacy by the pornography industry for freedom of expression. It insisted on ending what it termed the states blindness and denial, which had granted the pornography sector complete impunity. Statistics from Arcom, the French audiovisual regulator, revealed that 51% of 12-year-old boys in France accessed pornography every month. The report contended that the extensive consumption of pornography from an early age perpetuated a culture of sexual violence. Sylvie Pierre-Brossolette, the head of the French gender equality body, expressed on France Inter radio that there was no justification in 2023 for tolerating these unlawful acts of unbearable torment that were accessible to minors. She labeled pornography as a breeding ground for sexual violence that had to be halted. The report recommended that Pharos, the French state platform designed to combat illegal online content, should be expanded to cover instances of violence against women in pornography, as it was found to be inadequate in addressing sexual violence. In France, judges are currently investigating numerous cases involving pornography producers. In one case related to a French pornography website, 17 men will stand trial on charges of rape, group rape, and human trafficking for sexual exploitation, involving at least 40 victims. Other French pornography producers face charges of human trafficking, rape, or rape combined with acts of torture. However, the report highlighted the protracted legal processes. For the few dozen victims whose cases make it to the justice system, there are millions of unchecked videos circulating, thriving on misogynistic violence and hatred, to the general indifference, the report emphasized. Berangere Couillard, the French minister for gender equality and the fight against discrimination, penned an opinion piece for the Journal du Dimanche, asserting that millions of online videos depicted acts of torture and inhumane cruelty. She stated, We must put a stop to this. While the government is already addressing the issue of minors accessing such content, there is much work to be done in combatting violence in the pornography industry and in protecting women. Israels Supreme Court on Thursday was hearing a challenge to a law that makes it harder to remove a sitting prime minister, which critics say is designed to protect Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who has been working to reshape the justice system while he is on trial for alleged corruption. The hearing is part of several pivotal court challenges against a proposed package of legislation and government steps meant to alter the countrys justice system. It comes after months of turmoil in Israel over the plan and deepens a rift between Netanyahus government and the judiciary, which it wants to weaken despite unprecedented opposition. Thursdays hearing on the law, the second by the High Court, took place in front of an expanded 11-judge panel, underscoring the importance of the deliberations. Netanyahus governing coalition Israels most religious and nationalist ever passed an amendment known as the incapacitation law in March which allows a prime minister to be deemed unfit to rule only for medical or mental health reasons. Under the amendment, only the prime minister or the government has the power to determine a leaders unfitness. The previous version of the law was vague about both the circumstances in which a prime minister could be deemed unfit, as well as who had the authority to declare it. But experts say the amendment expressly strips the attorney general, who historically wields the power to declare a prime minister unfit for office, of the ability to do so. Critics say the law protects Netanyahu from being deemed unfit for office over claims that he violated a conflict of interest agreement by dealing with the legal overhaul while on trial for corruption charges. They also say the law is tailor-made for Netanyahu and encourages corruption. Based on those criticisms, Thursdays hearing is focusing on whether the law should come into effect after the next national elections and not immediately, so that it isnt interpreted as a personalised law. A ruling is expected by January. We are trying to repeal the undemocratic and unconstitutional statute which allowed an unfit and improper prime minister to remain in his position. Actually, they built him a kind of a golden cage (so) that he will be protected from justice, said Eliad Shraga, chairman of the Movement for Quality Government in Israel, one of the groups that is challenging the amendment. Ahead of the hearing, dozens of protesters gathered outside Netanyahus private residence in Jerusalem, chanting democracy, while his allies defended the law. Simcha Rothman, a main driver of the overhaul, told Israeli Army Radio that the courts decision to hear the case was harmful to Israeli democracy and challenging the law was akin to throwing out the results of a legitimate election. The moment the court determines the laws, then it is also the legislative branch, the judiciary and the executive branch, he said. This is an undemocratic reality. The government wants to weaken the Supreme Court and limit judicial oversight on its decisions, saying it wants to return power to elected lawmakers and away from what it sees as a liberal-leaning, interventionist justice system. The first major piece of the overhaul was passed in July and an unprecedented 15-judge panel began hearing arguments against it earlier this month. The drive to reshape Israels justice system comes as Netanyahus trial for alleged corruption is ongoing. He is charged with fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes in three separate cases involving influential media moguls and wealthy associates. He denies wrongdoing, seeing the charges as part of a witch-hunt against him orchestrated by a hostile media and a biased justice system. Experts and legal officials say a conflict of interest arrangement struck after Netanyahu was indicted is meant to limit his involvement in judicial changes. After the incapacitation law was passed, Netanyahu said his hands were no longer tied and that he was taking a more active role in the legal changes underway. That sparked a rebuke from Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, who said Netanyahus remarks and any further actions were completely illegal and in conflict of interest. Critics say Netanyahu and his government are working to upend the countrys delicate system of checks and balances and setting Israel on a path toward autocracy. The overhaul has plunged Israel into one of its worst domestic crises, deepening longstanding societal divisions between those who want Israel to be a Western-facing liberal democracy and those who want to emphasize the countrys more conservative Jewish character. Netanyahu has moved forward with the overhaul despite a wave of opposition from a broad swath of Israeli society. Top legal officials, leading economists and the countrys booming tech sector have all spoken out against the judicial changes, which have sparked opposition from hundreds of military reservists, who have said they will not serve so long as the overhaul remains on the table. Tens of thousands of people have protested every Saturday for the last nine months. (AP) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday met US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and discussed the progress in bilateral relations between the two countries and several measures to take it forward. Jaishankar, who arrived in Washington from New York on Wednesday after addressing the 78th General Assembly session of the United Nations on Tuesday, will meet US Secretary of State Antony Blinken later in the day. Began my Washington DC visit with a meeting with NSA @JakeSullivan46. Recognised the tremendous progress in our bilateral relationship this year and discussed taking it forward, Jaishankar said in a post on X. The White House was not immediately available for comments on the meeting. Jaishankar will meet Blinken at the Foggy Bottom headquarters of the State Department later in the day. He is also scheduled to meet the US Trade Representatives Katherine Tie. This is the highest level meeting between the two countries after the recently concluded G-20 summit in New Delhi and amidst India-Canada diplomatic row. While the meeting between the two top diplomats was scheduled much before the Canadian crisis broke out, the US has been urging India to cooperate in the Canadian investigation into the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia in June. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has alleged potential involvement of the agents of the Indian government in the killing of Nijjar. India had designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020. India has rejected the allegations as absurd and motivated. Jaishankar is also expected to hold a series of meetings with senior officials of the Biden administration, review the progress made between the two countries after the historic State Visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June and talk about other regional and global issues. The minister is also expected to engage with the diaspora, and think-tank community and interact with leaders from the corporate sector. Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar was in frequent touch with Canadian intelligence officers and met them often. He even held talks with CSIS officers a day or two before he was killed in June, his son said. Balraj Singh Nijjar (21) said his father used to meet with Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) officers once or twice a week and a meeting was also scheduled two days after his death. Nijjar started meeting CSIS officers in February and it became frequent in the subsequent three or four months, Balraj said. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, last week, alleged a potential link between the Indian government and the killing of Nijjar, but remained mum about the Khalistani terrorists frequent meeting with the CSIS. Nijjars son also told in an interview that his father even met Royal Canadian Mounter Police (RCMP) last year. Trudeaus allegation has led to worsening of relationship between India and Canada, with New Delhi rejecting the Canadian PMs claims as absurd and motivated. Nijjar, 46, head of the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara Sahib in Surrey, Canada, was shot by two unidentified men outside the gurdwara in June this year. He was the chief of the separatist organisation, Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF). The NIA had announced a reward of Rs 10 lakh for information leading to his arrest. Meanwhile, sources to News18 said Nijjars killing was plotted by ISI to put India on the back foot. Two ISI plants in Canada Rahat Rao and Tariq Kiyani were given the task of killing Nijjar possibly due to business reasons or to get more cuts from new people, sources said. The task was given to someone so that the drug business could be directly controlled by Rao and Kiyani as Nijjar was becoming powerful with time and gaining popularity in the local Canadian community. The sources further said the trio of Rao, Kiyani and Gurpatwant Singh Pannun possibly laid the trap to control the drug and immigration business which is the main source of income for them. With inputs from agencies More than half of the population has fled Nagorno-Karabakh since Azerbaijan started a rapid onslaught last week, and ethnic Armenians there announced on Thursday that they were dissolving the breakaway statelet they had fought for three decades. As a formal concession to Azerbaijan, they proclaimed in a statement that their self-styled Republic of Artsakh will cease to exist by January 1. The result is a successful restoration of sovereignty for Azerbaijan and its president, Ilham Aliyev, over a region that is internationally regarded as being a part of their territory but whose ethnic Armenian majority earned de facto independence in a war in the 1990s. It is a setback and a tragedy for Armenians as a nation. By Thursday morning, 65,036 people, according to Armenia, had entered its territory, out of an estimated population of 120,000. Analysis of the situation shows that in the coming days there will be no Armenians left in Nagorno-Karabakh, Armenia Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan told the media. This is an act of ethnic cleansing. This claim is refuted by Azerbaijan, which asserts that it is not forcibly displacing anyone and that it plans to pacifically reintegrate the Karabakh region while preserving the civil rights of the ethnic Armenian population. Given the long history of bloodshed between the two sides, which includes two wars since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the Armenians of Karabakh claim that they do not believe that promise. They have been dispersing in large numbers down the winding mountain road between Karabakh and Armenia that snakes through Azerbaijan for days. The humanitarian issue has alarmed the US and other Western nations, who have called for access for foreign observers to watch how Azerbaijan is treating the local population. The head of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Samantha Power, stated last week that she has received very troubling reports of violence against civilians. Azerbaijan claimed Aliyev had assured her during a meeting on Wednesday that ethnic Armenians legal rights would be safeguarded in the same way as those of other minorities. The Azerbaijani president noted that the civilian population had not been harmed during the anti-terrorist measures, and only illegal Armenian armed formations and military facilities had been targeted, a statement said. According to Aliyevs office, he was in Jabrayil on Thursday, a city on the southern fringe of Karabakh that Armenian forces destroyed in the 1990s and that Azerbaijan retook in 2020 and is currently rebuilding. Aliyev last week referred to the leaders of the Karabakh Armenians as a criminal junta that would be brought to court while maintaining that he had no beef with regular Karabakh Armenians. Ruben Vardanyan, a former leader of Karabakhs government, was detained on Wednesday as he attempted to enter Armenia. According to the official security office of Azerbaijan, he was accused of funding terrorism and unlawfully crossing the countrys border the previous year. An advisor to the leadership of Karabakh, David Babayan, declared in a statement that he was voluntarily handing himself over to the Azerbaijani authorities. Since the Karabakh conflict first started in the late 1980s while the Soviet Union was on the verge of disintegrating, mass displacements have been a recurring theme. A former head of Karabakhs government, Ruben Vardanyan, was arrested on Wednesday as he tried to cross into Armenia. Azerbaijans state security service said on Thursday he was being charged with financing terrorism and with illegally crossing the Azerbaijani border last year. David Babayan, an adviser to the Karabakh leadership, said in a statement he was voluntarily giving himself up to the Azerbaijani authorities. Mass displacements have been a feature of the Karabakh conflict since it broke out in the late 1980s as the Soviet Union headed towards collapse. This is one of the darkest pages of Armenian history, said Father David, a 33-year-old Armenian priest who came to the border to provide spiritual support for those arriving. The whole of Armenian history is full of hardships. (With agency inputs) Polish and US officials inked an agreement Wednesday in Warsaw to proceed with the construction of Polands first nuclear power plant as part of the Central European countrys push to transition away from polluting fossil fuels. Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki termed the agreement to build the plant in the Pomerania region near the Baltic Sea as the start of a new chapter for Poland, and defined nuclear energy as a stable and clean energy source. The only clean, stable energy source that is technologically proven and verified in terms of safety is nuclear energy, which is having its big day today, he said at the ceremony. Morawieckis administration stated last year that it had picked the United States as its project partner. The deal was signed by a consortium led by Westinghouse and Bechtel with Polskie Elektrownie Jdrowe (PEJ), the Polish state-owned utility in charge of the nuclear programme. The proposed location is roughly 280 kilometres (175 miles) from Germanys border, which shut down its last surviving nuclear reactors in April. The four German states closest to Poland declared their opposition to the Polish idea last year. Many environmentalists traditionally oppose nuclear energy, and in Poland, some argue that the initial cost is so high and that it takes so long to develop that it makes more sense to invest in renewable energies. Still, opposition in Poland to the plan has not been high. Even the Greens party is divided on the matter. That is a reflection of how fears of climate change have persuaded some environmentalists around the world to embrace nuclear power as a solution, because it doesnt involve the burning of fossil fuels. Poland is planning to spend $40 billion to build two nuclear power plants with three reactors each, the last one to be launched in 2043. The deal with the US is for the first three reactors of the Pomerania plant, which officials say should start producing electricity in 2033. Poland has also signed agreements with South Korea for the construction of a second nuclear power plant as it moves forward with its nuclear energy plans. Poland has planned for decades to build nuclear power plants to replace its aging coal-fired plants in a country with some of the worst air pollution in Europe. Russias invasion of Ukraine and its use of energy to put economic and political pressure on European nations added urgency to Polands search for alternative energy sources. A Russian murderer, Dmitry Zelensky, has been released from prison by Vladimir Putin as a reward for his involvement in the war against Ukraine. Zelensky, aged 41, had been serving an 11-year sentence in a high-security prison for the murder of Tatiana Melekhina, his 27-year-old lover. He had strangled her and then dismembered her body, using a meat grinder for this gruesome act. Western Media reports that law enforcement sources described the murder as exceptionally cruel, shocking for even experienced detectives. Zelensky didnt stop at dismembering the body; he meticulously separated the flesh from the bones and turned it into mincemeat, which he disposed of down the toilet. The bones were discarded into a river as part of his plan to hide the murder. As per report, the disappearance of Tatiana triggered a massive search after her father reported her missing. Zelensky, a resident of Perm, later confessed to the murder following an argument. He had concealed from Tatiana that he was married and had a daughter. Upon discovering her husbands heinous crime, Zelenskys 44-year-old wife, also named Tatiana, expressed shock, saying, I dont know what to say now I didnt know he could be so cruel. Tatianas sister, Oksana, expressed outrage over the family not being informed about Zelenskys release. She mentioned that during his trial, it was promised that they would be notified about his whereabouts and movements, but they received no information despite their inquiries. Zelenskys mother, Galina, confirmed his pardon and release. However, the exact location of his involvement in the war remains unknown. Galina explained that her son had joined the conflict for various reasons, possibly seeking to atone for his terrible crime. When Zelensky confessed to killing Tatiana, it was revealed that he had promised her a fresh start in a major city. They embarked on a journey from their remote Russian town of Gubakha to the regional capital of Perm. Tatiana never made it to the city. In truth, Zelensky, a married father, had no intention of permanently relocating to Perm. Tatianas father reported her missing when she failed to call him upon her arrival, as she had promised. This release of hardened criminals who have participated in the war and their subsequent return to civilian life has raised concerns among Russians, who fear a potential surge in crime. Earlier in the year, Putin initiated the awarding of medals to violent convicts recruited from Russian prisons for their courageous involvement in Ukraine. In March, the Ministry of Defence announced the pardoning and release of thousands of Russian convicts who had fought for the private mercenary army Wagner. Russia is set to hike defence spending by almost 70 per cent in 2024, a finance ministry document published Thursday showed, as Moscow pours resources into its full-scale offensive in Ukraine. The document said defence spending was set to jump by over 68 per cent year-on-year to almost 10.8 trillion rubles ($111.15 billion), totalling around 6 per cent of GDP more than spending allocated for social policy. There is so much I'd like to tell you about right now. All of it could be explored at the considerable length befitting major subject matter. In fact, all of it should be dealt with that way by someone. Not me though. Let me put them all together in a kind of Western New York-centric miscellany, paying special attention to artists and public figures raised here who went on to become figures of considerable consequence nationally and even internationally. They include: one of the great living American writers and perennial Nobel Prize candidates, now 85; one of the finest jazz tenor saxophonists since the heyday of Sonny Rollins and John Coltrane; and a returned TV actor who spent many years being a pillar of network prime-time performance. To that I'm going to add two writers of recent books I admire enormously: Claire Dederer's "Monsters: A Fan's Dilemma" and Margo Jefferson's "Constructing a Nervous System." To put it in the simplest way, I would urge people who have even tangential interest in any of them to investigate them as thoroughly as their time permits. The rewards are beyond substantial. Crying out for your attention, in my view, are: James Brandon Lewis His father was a Buffalo preacher, his mother was a schoolteacher. Among his tenor saxophone teachers was Buffalo's legendary Carol McLaughlin. He was once a student of the Buffalo Academy for the Visual and Performing Arts as well as Howard University and Cal-Arts, where his professors included Wadada Leo Smith and Charlie Haden. With all of that background, he has, in the past decade, produced wildly varying records and live music of power and instantly appealing vitality. The big one released right now is a joint two-disc offering featuring his newest disc "For Mahalia, With Love." Other musicians and critics are among his biggest partisans not least pianist Matthew Shipp, frequent Hallwalls visitor bassist William Parker and, the most revered living soloist in all of jazz, Sonny Rollins, who says about Lewis: "When I listen to you, I listen to the Buddha, I listen to Confucius, I listen to the deeper meaning of life. You are keeping the world in balance." After an endorsement like that from Sonny, anything the rest of us might offer seems trivial, but Lewis is a decidedly nontrivial player whose every new record seems to offer a new possibility. "For Mahalia, With Love" explores the famous gospel repertoire of Mahalia Jackson (so intrinsic to his youth) to create high-protein avant-mainstream jazz with a pianoless and guitarless quintet (rhythm section, cellist and cornet player) called the Red Lilly Quartet. "Swing Low," "Go Down Moses," "Wade in the Water" and "Deep River" are among the Mahalia classics that get very personal treatment that is the antithesis of camp from a player who has long made New York his home. His drummer from Chicago, Chad Taylor, is a fresh and exceptional rhythmic partner for Lewis. Those accustomed to the usual post-bop mainstream will not find any "ching-chinga-ching" anywhere from this drummer. Along with the Mahalia disc one gets attached to it, an exceptional earlier disc called "These Are Soulful Days," which was recorded live in concert with the Lutoslawski Quartet at its world premiere in Wloclaw, Poland. It is quite beautiful most of the way, as attached to African American spirituality as the Mahalia disc but usually of a more sedate, less-rugged climate. It seems to me rather glorious news that one of the most creative and distinctive young players in jazz is a native son of the shores of Lake Erie. Joyce Carol Oates The most significant fact about "Zero Sum and Other Stories" is that its author, a few decades ago, became an exhibit under glass of how errant English language readers had come to think of the Nobel Prize for Literature. Among those not graced with THE prize were Vladimir Nabokov, Jorge Luis Borges, Italo Calvino and, yes, the ever-fascinating and tumultuously productive exemplar of virtuoso realism, Joyce Carol Oates. What has been obvious for decades is how unforgivable the literary world outside America finds her astonishing industry while living in Princeton, N.J., where she has long taught. A fine interview with Oates by Maggie Lange in W magazine does some of the mind-blowing math of her career: 47 collections of short stories and 62 novels, not to mention all the essay collections and yes, in the 21st century, submissions to Substack and frequents bits of spritz on the site formerly known as Twitter. On Substack, you find such Oatesiana as her "Writer's Journal" including such Oatesian advice as "Write Your Heart Out" and "You Are Writing for Your Contemporaries, Not Posterity." Her book of short stories preserves the rather amazing personality we've become familiar with, a tone of Gothic cruelty, science fiction, assimilable experimental fiction and her own variant of avant-realism. She explains the title of the book by telling us that "zero-sum" situations are those in which there can be no winners without equal and equivalent losers. She doesn't think that should define our lives as it now so often does. "That's one of the reasons our politics are toxic ... that somebody wins and somebody loses ... either/or rather than unifying." It was lovely for the fractious Nobel Award committee in Sweden to give their praise to Bob Dylan but, in my view, Oates should have long preceded him among living Americans. Jesse L. Martin The Buffalo-raised actor was, for years, a stalwart of NBC's venerable series "Law & Order." Martin's new NBC series is called "The Irrational" and Martin plays a professor of abnormal psychology hooked up with the cops and his FBI agent ex-wife to employ his telegenic talents to help solve crimes. Very conventional, standard stuff but it has a very reassuring and soothing flavor of deportment and civility and nonassaultive intelligence. It's TV for people often shell shocked by the zero-sum world that seems to yammer at them elsewhere from all corners. Two books without local connections are those I couldn't possibly recommend more highly. Margo Jefferson's memoir follow-up to her well-nigh miraculous "Negroland" is called "Constructing a Nervous System" (Pantheon, 195 pages, $27) and Claire Dederer's exquisitely sane book of criticism in the era of cancel culture "Monsters: A Fan's Dilemma" (Knopf, 273 pages, $28) where she does baby-from-bathwater separations of a lot of troubling subjects in the post-woke intellectual ferment that has resulted from eminently justified smotherings of misogyny every which way but loose. A glaringly deft sample of Dederer's ability to contain both the current radical disgust with misogyny and the aesthetic claims of a literary masterpiece whose central character IS a monster is her treatment of Nabokov's "Lolita." Almost terminally troubling to modern sensibility is Nabokov's book, about which she is very much of her time in her loathing of its child-abusing protagonist Humbert Humbert and clearheaded about the deeply perverse (NOT perverted) tale being told. The great legend of Lolita is that its author himself had carried it down to the incinerator where he intended to consign it forever to the ashes. He was stopped by his wife Vera, who said something on the order "Hold on, my love, there's a great work of literature there." His friend Edmund Wilson agreed with Nabokov's original judgment of his own work. Wilson's wife Elena, in later years, agreed with Vera. So did the literary world outside the Nobel professors in Sweden. Zero-sum was not the book's final fate. Thank heaven. Reading Jefferson's follow-up to her early memoir "Negroland" is one of the more notable privileges of reading books in our era. Jefferson came from the Black upper-middle class of Chicago and became one of best and wisest cultural critics for Newsweek, Vogue, the Times and other mandarin venues of intelligence in our era. This is an omnivorous cultural consumer who can find an answer to a conundrum posed in a poem by T.S. Eliot in a blues sung by Ida Cox. She is an almost effortless-seeming polymath and a writer so good one is tempted to command her attention on almost every subject of interest in our current zero-sum lives. To be very personal, she is, to me, a writer who, once discovered, is never to be done without. The Nagorno-Karabakh separatist administration said Thursday that it will dissolve itself, and the unrecognised country will cease to exist on 1 January 2024. The action comes after Azerbaijan launched a quick attack to recover complete control of its breakaway area, demanding that Armenian forces in Nagorno-Karabakh lay down their arms and the separatist government dissolve. Samvel Shakhramanyan, the regions separatist president, signed a decree to that effect. The letter highlighted a cease-fire deal negotiated last week under which Azerbaijan will allow free, voluntary, and unhindered movement of Nagorno-Karbakh people in exchange for Armenia disarming its forces. Nagorno-Karabakh is a region of Azerbaijan that came under the control of ethnic Armenian forces, backed by the Armenian military, in separatist fighting that ended in 1994. During a six-week war in 2020, Azerbaijan took back parts of Nagorno-Karabakh along with surrounding territory that Armenian forces had claimed during the earlier conflict. In December, Azerbaijan imposed a blockade of the only road connecting Nagorno-Karabakh with Armenia, alleging that the Armenian government was using the road for mineral extraction and illicit weapons shipments to the regions separatist forces. Armenia charged that the closure denied basic food and fuel supplies to Nagorno-Karabakhs approximately 120,000 people. Azerbaijan rejected the accusation, arguing the region could receive supplies through the Azerbaijani city of Aghdam a solution long resisted by Nagorno-Karabakh authorities, who called it a strategy for Azerbaijan to gain control of the region. After the blockade was lifted following the offensive and a ceasefire agreement brokered by Russian peacekeepers, more than half of Nagorno-Karabakhs population 65,000 have fled to Armenia. Following a wave of violence that claimed at least 11 lives in September alone, the prime minister of Sweden on Thursday announced he had summoned the head of the armed forces and the police commissioner in an effort to stop gang violence. On Wednesday, two individuals were killed in separate shootings in Stockholm, and in the early hours of Thursday, a bomb in Uppsala decimated a home, killing a lady in her 20s who was believed to be an innocent bystander. This is a difficult time for Sweden. A 25-year-old woman went to bed last night on a completely ordinary evening but never got to wake up, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said during a rare televised address to the nation. We will hunt the gangs, we will defeat the gangs, he said. After the election of last year, Kristersson, with the aid of the populist and anti-immigrant Sweden Democrats, created a minority center-right government, ending eight years of Social Democrat-led governments in Sweden. A number of initiatives, including giving police more authority and tougher penalties for gun offences, have been implemented by his coalition, which won the election in part on a vow to stop the spread of gang violence. Although the measures have not yet taken effect, Kristersson blamed previous administrations for the issues. It is an irresponsible immigration policy and a failed integration that has brought us here, Kristersson said. Sweden, which has long maintained open immigration policy, welcomed more immigrants per person in 2015 than any other country in Europe. These regulations were toughened during Kristerssons administration but were restored by the previous Social Democrat-led administration. Of Swedens 10.5 million people, almost 20% were born overseas. The administration was urged to modify the law to allow the military to assist in putting an end to gang violence earlier on Thursday by the opposition Social Democrats, the largest party in parliament. This is not Sweden, this is not how Sweden is supposed to be, Social Democrat leader Magdalena Andersson told a news conference. The supreme commander of the armed forces and the commissioner of the national police have been called, according to Kristersson, to discuss the options. According to police estimates, 30,000 persons in Sweden are either directly involved in gang crime or have connections to it. Additionally, violence has migrated from large cities to smaller communities where it was previously uncommon. Two individuals were shot dead and two others were injured earlier this week when a gunman opened fire at a pub in Sandviken. September is the worst month since December 2019 according to the 11 shooting deaths this month. The criminal conflicts in Sweden are a serious threat to the safety and security of the country, National Police Commissioner Anders Thornberg said in a statement. Innocents are murdered and injured. We are doing everything we can within the police and together with others to stop the development. (With agency inputs) Taiwan unveiled its first domestically built submarine on Thursday, with the massively outgunned island seeking to bolster its defences against China. China claims self-ruled Taiwan as its territory, and has in the past year stepped up military and political pressure, ramping up the number of warplane incursions around the island while diplomatically isolating it. Taiwan has increased defence spending allotting a record $19 billion for 2024 to acquire military equipment, particularly from its key ally the United States, but its quest to obtain a submarine has faced obstacles. President Tsai Ing-wen strongly opposed by Beijing for her refusal to accept Chinas authority over the island launched a submarine programme in 2016 with the aim of delivering a fleet of eight vessels. The first prototype is named Hai Kun, which means mythical sea creature in Chinese, and was unveiled Thursday at a ceremony in the southern port city of Kaohsiung. History will forever remember this day, declared Tsai, standing in front of the vessel draped in Taiwans flag colours. In the past, building submarines domestically was considered Mission Impossible. But today, a submarine designed and built by our own people is right in front of everyone we did it, she said. Hai Kun measures 80 metres in length and has a displacement weight of about 2,500 to 3,000 tons, and has combat systems and torpedoes sourced from the US defence company Lockheed Martin. It will now undergo sea trials, with Tsai saying Hai Kun would be operational by 2025 though some defence analysts say it could take longer. Taiwans navy currently has two working submarines Swordfish-class vessels bought from the Netherlands in the 1980s. Washington initially approved an offer in 2001 to supply eight conventional submarines, but the sale never materialised. Over the same period, China has built itself one of the worlds largest navies, with nuclear-powered submarines and aircraft carriers. Crucial element China has about 60 submarines, according to the US Department of Defense, six of which are nuclear-powered and armed with ballistic missiles. While this puts Taiwan at a clear disadvantage in terms of numbers, deploying its submarines at two major choke points the Bashi Channel and the Miyako Strait would be enough to cause problems for China, said Sifu Ou at Taiwans Institute for National Defense and Security Research. They cannot sail through easily it is very important for Taiwans defence. Ben Lewis, a US-based independent expert on the Chinese militarys movements around Taiwan, said the submarine will pose a risk to Chinas amphibious assault and troop transport capabilities. They have practised extensively the use of civilian vessels to augment their existing troop delivery platforms, and a submarine could wreak havoc on vessels not designed for naval warfare. But Zivon Wang, a military analyst at Taipei-based think tank the Chinese Council of Advanced Policy Studies, said there is still a long way to go before it is combat capable. The launch does not mean that Taiwan will become very powerful right away but it is a crucial element of Taiwans defence strategy and a part of our efforts to build deterrence capabilities. Chinas state-run Global Times on Monday published an op-ed saying Taiwans submarine deployment plan to block the PLA was daydreaming. The plan is just an illusion of the island attempting to resist reunification by force, it said. According to Dutch police, a shooter opened fire at a classroom at a university medical site in Rotterdam and a nearby residence on Thursday, killing a teacher and a local lady. According to police, who spoke during a televised press conference, the 32-year-old suspect, a university student, fatally shot a 39-year-old woman who lived in his neighbourhood and critically injured her 14-year-old daughter. The assailant burned down the womans home before heading to the Rotterdam Medical Centre academic hospital, where he fatally murdered a 46-year-old instructor inside a classroom. Near the hospital, where he also started a fire, the man was apprehended. His motivation was unclear. We have been shocked by a horrible incident. Shots were fired in two different places in the city. Many people witnessed it, Rotterdam Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb said. Emotions in the city are very high. My condolences go out to the victims. The suspect was known to law enforcement and in 2021 he was prosecuted and convicted for animal abuse, said Hugo Hillenaar, Rotterdams chief prosecutor. Online videos showed police directing students to leave the building as heavily armed arrest squads approached; some of the students were wearing medical gowns. In one video, a man wearing what looked to be camouflage trousers was handcuffed. There were no signs of a second shooter, according to the police. (With agency inputs) During a surprise visit to Kyiv on Thursday, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stated that Ukrainian forces were gradually gaining ground in their counteroffensive against Russian forces. Stoltenberg declared that every metre that Ukrainian forces regain is a metre that Russia loses during a press conference he had alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. And there is a stark contrast: Ukrainians are fighting for their families, their future, their freedom, he added. Moscow is fighting for imperial delusions. Zelenskiy emphasised the necessity for increased air defence in Ukraine against Russian attacks, noting that Moscow had employed over 40 Shahed drones in raids against Ukraine just the night before. And so it is almost every night. In the conditions of such intense attacks against Ukrainians, against our cities, ports which are important for global food security we need a corresponding increase in pressure on Russia and a corresponding increase in our air shield, he said. According to Stoltenberg, he is constantly pushing NATO members to increase their assistance to Ukraine and expedite deliveries, not least of air defence systems. NATO currently has broad-reaching framework agreements with ammunition suppliers totaling 2.4 billion euros ($2.53 billion), including 1 billion euros in definite purchases, according to Stoltenberg. Such agreements, according to him, would enable NATO allies to replenish their depleted stocks while continuing to supply Ukraine with weapons, a crucial component in the conflict. Additionally, Stoltenberg denounced Russian operations along the Romanian border with Ukraine, another NATO member. Although he claimed there was no proof that these attacks were an intentional retaliation against Romania, he called them reckless and destabilising. (With agency inputs) In an interview published Thursday, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said an intensifying grain export issue between Kyiv and Warsaw was harmful to both nations. Poland has maintained an embargo on Ukrainian grain, defying a European Commission order to lift the ban and sparking a diplomatic spat between the allies. We have conveyed clear signals to Poland about our commitment to a constructive solution to this situation. We dont need this grain war and neither does Poland, Kuleba told Interfax-Ukraine. He warned the row could worsen as emotions are running high ahead of the Polish elections on 15 October. Polands populist right-wing government has strong support in agricultural regions and has presented the ban as protecting Polish farmers. Kuleba said the grain issue would eventually be solved, but cautioned against the long-term consequences of stoking tensions. The fact that the narrative about the ungratefulness of Ukraine and Ukrainians is planted in the heads of Polish people can have extremely negative consequences for security, Kuleba said. He called allegations of ingratitude an outright lie. Ukraine is very sincerely and deeply grateful to the Polish people and the Polish government, he said. Poland has been one of Ukraines staunchest supporters since Russia sent troops to Ukraine in February 2022 and is one of Kyivs main weapons suppliers. The US Mission to India has reached and surpassed its goal to process one million non-immigrant visa applications in 2023, according to a statement issued by the Mission on its website in.usembassy.gov. The US Mission to India has reached and surpassed its goal to process one million nonimmigrant visa applications in 2023. The Mission has already surpassed the total number of cases processed in 2022 and is processing almost 20% more applications than in pre-pandemic 2019. US pic.twitter.com/SV0rfEDRI5 ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2023 The Mission has already surpassed the total number of cases processed in 2022 and is processing almost 20 per cent more applications than in pre-pandemic 2019, added the statement. Our partnership with India is one of the United States most important bilateral relationships, and in fact one of the most important relationships in the world. The ties between our people are stronger than ever, and we will continue our record-setting volume of visa work in the coming months to give as many Indian applicants as possible the opportunity to travel to the United States and experience the US-India friendship firsthand, said US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti. According to the statement, last year over 1.2 million Indians visited the United States, making this one of the most robust travel relationships in the world. Indians now represent over 10 per cent of all visa applicants worldwide, including 20 per cent of all student visa applicants and 65 per cent of all H&L-category (employment) visa applicants. The United States welcomes this growth, added the statement. Recognising the continued high demand for visas, the United States continues to invest heavily in operations in India. In the past year, the Mission has expanded its staffing to facilitate more visa processing than ever before. The Mission has made significant capital improvements to existing facilities, such as the US Consulate in Chennai, and has inaugurated a new Consulate building in Hyderabad, the statement read. The Mission has also implemented strategies to increase efficiency, extending interview waiver eligibility to new visa categories and utilizing remote work to allow staff around the world to contribute to Indian visa processing. Early next year, the Mission plans to implement a pilot program that would allow domestic visa renewal for qualified H&L-category employment visa applicants. As noted in the Joint Statement issued by Prime Minister Modi and President Joe Biden during the Presidents recent visit to India, the US and India share a close and enduring partnership. Improved visa processing is only one example of the US Mission to Indias ongoing commitment to strengthening that partnership, added the statement. Following the pandemic, Indians have gained a lot of attention for being the biggest globetrotters, garnering a number of visas for several key destinations. Despite the extremely long wait for visa issuance and the excessively expensive airfare, Indians are still travelling to the US in large numbers. With inputs from agencies Jane Christensen was eager to visit the giant pandas before they departed Washington, no matter the distance or the weather. Christensen, now in her 60s, told AFP that she was captivated by the species mystical sweetness more than a half-century ago when China initially sent two pandas to the United States. Ive had panda-monium ever since, she said under a chilly rain outside the Smithsonian National Zoos panda exhibit hundreds of miles from her home in Michigan. All three of the zoos pandas will depart for China by the end of the year, putting an end to a decades-long relationship between the adorable species and the US capital. The zoo has begun a week-long Panda Palooza event in preparation for the departure, inviting hundreds of admirers, many of whom are dressed in panda-themed caps and shirts. While the pandas departure was expected due to contractual responsibilities, many perceive the change as a reflection of the widening schism between Beijing and Washington. The first black-and-white furballs arrived from China as a gift after then-President Richard Nixons momentous visit to the Communist-led country in 1972. Recognizing the species uncanny ability to attract fans and a potential source of income for its conservation program China continued to loan out pandas to Washington and other zoos around the world since dubbed Panda Diplomacy. At the Smithsonian Zoo, millions of dollars have been spent on the pandas enclosure and studies, especially related to breeding, including a popular 24-hour Panda Cam to monitor their behaviour and health. Weve been watching on the live cam every day leading up to this point, said Heidi Greco, who travelled hours by car from Ohio with her family. Her daughter Stormy, who had on a panda hat and carried a just-bought panda umbrella, is obsessed with pandas, Greco said. The family watched the pandas make some laps around their separate outdoor enclosures, then passed through an indoor viewing area where visitors could watch the animals eat snacks and bamboo up close. When I heard that these pandas were leaving, and the Atlanta Zoo pandas were leaving, and there would be no panda bears left in all of North America (except) one very old one in Mexico, I was really, really upset, said Greco. Zoo Atlanta, in the southern US state of Georgia, will send its four pandas to China by late 2024. Soft power Pandas Mei Xiang and Tian Tian arrived in Washington in 2000, and have since had four surviving cubs. Xiao Qi Ji (Little Miracle in English) was born in 2020 and will also depart by December. During Xi Jinpings state visit in 2015, the last by a Chinese leader to the United States, his wife and the US first lady held an official ceremony to unveil the name of panda cub Bei Bei. Eight years later, with mounting tensions over Taiwan and continuing trade disputes between the two powers, the panda exhibit is about to be closed. The Chinese government tends to bestow pandas on nations with whom Chinas relations are on the upswing, as a form of soft power projection, said Kurt Tong, a former high-ranking US diplomat and managing partner of the Asia Group consultancy. In that respect, given the current tenor of US-China relations it is not surprising that Chinese authorities are allowing panda contracts with US zoos to expire, Tong said in an email to AFP. He noted that the loans also help China augment the panda conservation budget. The Smithsonian pays $500,000 annually to its Chinese conservation group partner, the zoo said. The pandas departure closes a major chapter of an international animal care and conservation success story, the zoo said in a statement, adding that it remains committed to continuing its efforts to secure and safeguard a healthy future for giant pandas. One attendee saying her goodbyes at the zoo highlighted successful efforts to grow the wild population of pandas. Weve come a long way in getting the numbers back up, said Michaela from Maryland, who had her face painted like a panda. The species remains listed as vulnerable. As the rain let up, a steady stream of visitors began filling the area around the pandas outdoor enclosure. Known for being a bit sluggish, the panda made repeated laps around the acre-sized plot, climbing up and down the hills making sure everyone got one good, final snapshot. Every day, we see an escalation Canadas defence of Khalistani terror, Indias firm rejection of Trudeaus charges and his politics. This has now reached global forums. This week, it was brought up at the United Nations General Assembly. Indias external affairs minister S Jaishankar addressing world leaders said, political convenience must not determine responses to terrorism. Without naming Canada, he called them out. Later in the day, he spoke at another event on the sidelines. This time he was far more direct. Our concern is that its [Canadas] really been very permissive because of political reasons. And, a lot of this is often justified as saying, thats how democracies work. Thats classic Jaishankar does not mince his words. His tone is even and his message unambiguous. He basically said: Canada is harbouring extremists because it suits their politics. And it is this politics that is driving Canadas agenda, not any commitment to democratic values. Its unfortunate that this has to be said, over and over again because Trudeaus motivations are quite obvious. A textbook example of votebank politics and justifying terrorism as freedom of expression. Its been more than a week since he spoke in Parliament. What has followed is more accusations and selective leaks. No proof, though. The absurdity What is Trudeaus biggest charge against India? That theres an Indian hand in the killing of a Khalistani terrorist in Canada. Trudeau says his allegations are credible, and India must cooperate in the probe. Does that mean India is not cooperating? At least, that seems to be the implication. Well, here is Indias response. We told the Canadians saying that, look, if you have something specific, if you have something relevant, let us know. We are open to looking at it. If you have something specific or relevant, show us sounds like a fair argument. If Canada does have these so called credible inputs, why is it shy of sharing them? The killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who India calls a designated terrorist and Canada a plumber, a citizen and a Sikh activist happened in June. Prime Minister Trudeau raised his death only three months later. That too, in the Canadian Parliament. Mustve been a high-profile plumber. Trudeau accused India of ordering the hit. India called the charge absurd. even before the killing You know what else is absurd? Ottawas charge of foreign interference. And this pre-dates the current diplomatic dispute. Canada raised this in June when Trudeaus national security advisor Jody Thomas said: India is among top sources of foreign interference in Canada. Jaishankar said, Canada is the one that interferes in Indian politics. So, we have a situation where actually our diplomats are threatened. Our consulates have been attacked. And you know, and often comments are made about theres interference in our politics. Hes talking about Khalistani terrorists. They want to break up India. And Canada is harbouring and shielding them. Khalistanis have launched campaigns against India and its political leadership. Theyre targeting Indian missions and temples. Why is Canada supporting them? Is the Trudeau government a friend of Khalistanis? One of his ministers was asked this question. He rejected the charge. This was last week. Now India has weighed in. We have actually been badgering the Canadians. We have given them a lot of information about organized crime leadership, which operates out of Canada. And there are a large number of extradition requests. There are terrorist leaders who have been identified, Jaishankar said. The undiplomacy Intelligence, information and extradition requests India has given all of this. But Ottawa refuses to act. We cannot bend the rules of state-to-state relations for political expediency, because weve seen and continue to see the extent to which democracies are under threat through various means of foreign interference, says Bob Rae, Canadas ambassador to the UN. His statement is being seen as a dig at India. But after getting off the podium, he took a different tone. He said hes discussed the Nijjar case with his Indian counterparts and that there is scope for diplomacy. As they say, theres always scope for diplomacy. But Canadas selective leaks arent helping. Tom Donahue remembers in the early 1990s he was scheduled to interview fitness personality Richard Simmons on the morning show at WGR-AM at the time it was a news/talk station. Simmons was down the long hall of the station located then on Franklin Street when he saw the 6-foot-6-inch Donahue. He goes, Its a giant! Its a giant! and honest to God he came running up this hall and hopped into my arms, said Donahue in a telephone interview Wednesday afternoon. Simmons was right in more ways than one. Donahue went on to become a giant in the radio industry over a six-decade career that ends Friday morning with his final broadcast on WECK (1230 AM, 102.9, 100.1, 100.5 FM). His primary reason for retiring from radio is simple. I just dont want to do it forever, he explained. I was planning on calling it quits before the winter. This is the best we came up with. The early morning hours his shift is from 6 to 9 a.m. but preparation starts hours before that also played a role. That certainly is part of it, he said. Over the last 35 years, probably 25 or 26 of them have been mornings on various radio stations. I didnt mind but you do get a little tired of getting up at 3 in the morning. Donahue, 73, whose real name is Tom McCray, has worked in Buffalo radio as a news anchor, disc jockey, program director and production director for more than 51 years of his 55-year career. He is a member of the Buffalo Broadcasters Hall of Fame with has one of the most distinguished voices in local broadcast history. He also has had a distinguished career teaching at SUNY Buffalo State College (now University) in which he taught many of the familiar names in local broadcasting for 35 years. He retired from Buffalo State in 2015. The list includes Buffalo Toronto Public Media head Tom Calderone, WGRZ-TV anchor Claudine Ewing, WBEN-AM morning host Susan Rose, former WGR-AM morning host Howard Simon, WGR afternoon host Chris (The Bulldog) Parker, WGRZ reporter Dave McKinley and many others. Tom is a throwback to when broadcasters would do anything and everything just to be in the business of broadcasting, said WECK owner Buddy Shula. That is not a learned skill. Its in your DNA. Either you have it, or you dont. Tom always has. He is a statesman for the radio industry, hardworking, professional and always a gentleman. Most importantly, he epitomizes what a good person is all about. He has always been so easy to work with, and humble. He could probably tell a thousand cool stories about his career, but never gloats. A gentle giant of our community. I truly believe it has been the combination of his radio career and his teaching career that separates him from most everyone. It is so awesome to see local broadcasters still on the air who were taught by Tom. Donahue used his real name teaching college students Tom McCray. His transformation to Donahue on the radio is a uniquely radio story. When Jeff Kaye hired him to work at WKBW-AM in the early 1970s he was told he could use his real name if he wanted. But there was a complication. They had a guy on named Bob McCray, which was his fake name, explained Donahue. So I said, Well, no, I dont want to have people think were brothers. So he said, Well, come up with something. I used my middle name then for the first few months. I was Tom Rogers. Don Burns always used to tell me, Oh the son of Buck and Roy. But when I went to WYSL after that, the program director said, We dont want you to be Tom Rogers. We have an intro done by this big voice announcer out of Dallas. You can either be Tom Donovan or Tom Donohue. I said, Well, Ill be Donohue. Donahue had three stints at WKBW, where he worked with radio legends, including Danny Neaverth and Sandy Beach. He was the solo host of Original Saturday Night All-Request Oldies Show on WKBW from 1981-1986, a huge ratings hit. He also had stops at WYSL, WUSJ in Lockport, Oldies 104 and WLKK-FM The Lake. Besides his unusual meeting with Simmons, Donahues top memories include the night Elvis Presley died Aug. 16, 1977. Donahue was working in the afternoon when one of Elvis best friends, Memphis DJ George Klein, called to discuss the death of the king of rock n roll with him. Elvis father Vernon also had a few brief comments. The day of the Blizzard of 77 also is etched in Donahues memory. I worked about 24 hours straight, recalled Donahue. Everything was closed obviously. We were just helping people who needed the rides on a snowmobile to the hospital and things like that. While he is retiring from radio, Donahues distinctive voice wont be silenced. He said Shula would like him to continue doing voice-over commercials. Asked about his view of the state of radio, Donahue voiced some concerns. The thing that I find dangerous and actually unwelcome is the whole AI idea, artificial intelligence where they could take even my voice and make me a disc jockey I think it loses something when people cant be live on the air. Ive been fortunate to be able to do it live all these years. I loved it. I was passionate about it. I wanted to do it from the time I was 12 years old. And my wish came true, and little did I know that Id still be doing it at the age of 73. But Im happy to see it end. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning announces: As agreed between China and Germany, the third China-Germany High-level Financial Dialogue will be held in Germany on October 1. Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, Vice Premier of the State Council and the Chinese lead person of the Dialogue He Lifeng will co-chair the Dialogue with Federal Minister of Finance and the German lead person of the Dialogue Christian Lindner. A historic former department store building in East Buffalo that used to sell childrens clothing decades ago will soon be filled with the voices of young children again and the sounds of new residents after decades of vacancy and neglect. After nearly 10 years of ownership and delayed hopes, Cedarland Development Group kicked off construction on its $13.5 million renovation of the three-story former Eckhardts and Kobackers department store at 950 Broadway, with a vision of bringing the Art Moderne-style building back to life. Located at the intersection of Broadway and Fillmore Avenue, the prominent building with the rounded facade of granite, terra cotta and stainless steel sits in the heart of what had been a thriving commercial district. And both Cedarland and various government officials hope its redevelopment can be the anchor for efforts to restore the neighborhoods vibrancy. This is truly a transformational project, said Kevin Dagher, co-founder and CEO of Cedarland. I strongly believe now is the time for action, and were seeing that action throughout the Broadway-Fillmore community. Upon completion in April 2024, the 50,000-square-foot building will feature 28 affordable apartments on the upper two floors, with a free Head Start day care and childrens educational program run by Community Action Organization taking up the entire first floor. An indoor urban farm has been proposed for the basement, with plans to grow fresh, non-GMO produce for the surrounding community, but that hasnt been finalized and funded as yet. My father has always seen this property as a beacon of hope and opportunity, while many others overlooked it, said Dagher, whose father, Dr. Fadi Dagher, started the company with him in 2014, and is the firms president. Today, we have over 50 construction workers here on a daily basis. 950 Broadway will soon build upon the vibrancy of the Broadway-Fillmore community and be revitalized. Plans call for 10 studio, 12 one-bedroom and six two-bedroom apartments. The Head Start program will occupy 12,000 square feet, serving 55 children aged two to four from low-income families each day, while also providing family services to the community. When we had our first conversation, it was a no-brainer. We had to be a partner in this project, said CAO President and CEO Thomas Kim. This is a beautiful first step, where kiddos could have a great educational foundation, a great place to live, and a great community to build upon. Details of the urban farm are still in flux, but Dagher said it would probably grow items like spinach and collard greens, with at least 10% reserved for the neighborhood either for free or at cost. Were going to see what the market needs, he said. Originally designed by architects Bley and Lyman and constructed in 1940, the building served as a department store until 1957, but was later converted to office space, including for the state Department of Labor. Its been vacant for 18 years and was underused even before that, but the third floor and basement have been empty for decades. Broadway-Fillmore is one of the most demolished neighborhoods in the City of Buffalo, said Common Council Member Mitch Nowakowski. I think bringing back density is really going to bring back this neighborhood. Cedarland acquired the property in 2014 and began formulating plans for a redevelopment, while starting conversations with public officials and community members about what was needed in the area and how to fund it. But for the first five years, it struggled to find an anchor tenant to satisfy lenders. That was the main roadblock that we had, Kevin Dagher said. The logjam finally broke once the developer landed CAO, though it still took a while to put the rest of the building together and figure out the financing, Dagher said. Construction is being led by Buffalo Construction Consultants. We faced some challenges with this project, but we were able to overcome them because of collaboration and determination, Kevin Dagher said. This is where hard work and taking action comes into play, to turn vision into reality. Theres no silver bullet to economic development, but investing in a community and its residents generates sustainable growth and pays dividends for generations to come, said Hope Knight, CEO of Empire State Development. Living in the city Buffalo Planning Board to Waterfront Village: You live in the city. Get used to it. After months of battling to prevent a developer from building 26 townhomes on the last remaining swath of vacant green space at the far end of Waterfront Village, residents of the tony neighborhood lost their fight Tuesday, as the Planning Board approved the proposal following a long discussion over the loss of street parking. Bottom line? The project adheres to the rules. "The developer has a right to develop his property," said Planning Board Chairman James Morrell. "If this was built out when it was originally planned, there would be no on-street parking at all." An entity called Nemo Development wants to add the attached single-family townhomes in six three-story brick clusters, using a 1.3-acre strip of vacant land at 367 Lakefront Blvd. Located within the Lakefront Commons area, its one of the last available sites within the residential development near Erie Basin Marina. Developed in the late 1980s, Lakefront Commons consists of 52 townhomes with identical red brick exteriors, but it was never finished. Residents objected to the development plan, saying it would eliminate the only on-street parking for visitors or contractors at the westernmost cul-de-sac of Lakefront Boulevard while creating a wintertime hazard for emergency vehicles. The nearby homeowners who have two-car garages and driveways wide enough for two cars have been using the 500-foot vacant strip of green space on the north side of Lakefront for supplemental street parking for decades, while the city has piled snow on the empty site. They complained that the project will deny them those benefits, while posing risks for snowplows, ambulances or other vehicles getting stuck. They insist they are not opposed to development, but question the wisdom of the plan and the level of density, suggesting that the city utilities and infrastructure wouldnt be able to handle another 26 residential units. They also complained that the developer would not identify himself or itself, speaking instead only through Matthew P. Moscati of TRM Architects. Nemo is registered to Barbara and Miro Staroba, who have long wanted to build a set of townhouses on the land they purchased in 2007, across the street from two condos they owned. But previous comments from Moscati implied that someone else is buying either the site or Nemo itself. Common Councilmember Mitch Nowakowski had even convened a meeting between residents and the developer's representative, Matthew P. Moscati of TRM Architects, but neither side budged. "We still have no resolution to our concerns," said resident Peter Lisichenko. "The representative from the developer is basically stating that they have no reason to address the concerns, and were more of an annoyance at this point." But after listening to those objections over multiple meetings, board members had heard enough. "As far as snow removal, there are streets on the East Side that never get hit, and they have street parking," Morrell said. "Those are the difficulties of living in the city." Welcome to Buffalo Next. This newsletter from The Buffalo News will bring you the latest coverage on the changing Buffalo Niagara economy from real estate to health care to startups. Read more at BuffaloNext.com. Marine Drive moves forward The Planning Board on Tuesday also approved a "coastal consistency determination" and recommended approval of a "planned unit development" designation for the Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority's planned remake of Marine Drive Apartments. That PUD would include 18 zoning waivers, creating a uniform set of prescribed land-use rules for the entire 9.65-acre site, which cuts across two properties with different zoning. Separate action on a subdivision to break up the properties into four pieces and the mandatory environmental review were tabled for at least two weeks. The $400 million project by BMHA and its private development partners a joint venture of the Habitat Company and Duvernay & Brooks would demolish the existing seven 12-story public-housing towers at 90-100 Marine Drive and replace them with a modern affordable housing complex with bigger units, more amenities and retail space. The three-phase, eight-year project will construct new buildings of varying sizes, ranging from a one-story community center and mid-rise apartment buildings to parking ramps and new 12-story towers. And it will create 738 new one-, two- and three-bedroom units to fit the current and expanded population, along with 855 parking spaces, 5,000 square feet of ground-floor retail and commercial space, new public roads, a public plaza and green space. Once approved, the project is expected to begin in late 2024, with completion by the end of 2031. Separately, the board also backed a rezoning for 160 Botsford Place from strip retail to flex commercial not light industrial as originally requested to allow Ellicott Development Co. to either construct a 27,000-square-foot warehouse at the end of the dead-end street behind the Regal Cinemas plaza on Elmwood Avenue or relocate a potential auto-repair shop tenant. The site was formerly part of the Frontier Lumber property. Sunshine in Chautauqua The Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agency has approved a revised package of tax breaks totaling $2.6 million for a proposed solar farm venture that straddles the Town and Village of Sherman, after the two-part project was acquired by another company, which then sought additional assistance on top of the original request. The CCIDA in June 2021 had received an application from Solar Liberty Energy Systems for its planned SL Sherman and SL Sherman II solar arrays. The combined 9.625-megawatt projects at 176 and 191 W. Main St. which is mostly within the town will feature 32,500 panels installed across 34 acres. CCIDA approved the request in May, with $675,000 in sales tax breaks, $170,000 in mortgage-recording tax savings and $1.81 million in property tax breaks over 25 years. Since then, however, Houston-based Catalyze Holdings has taken over the $22 million initiative from Solar Liberty, while expenses have risen for site work, infrastructure, equipment and professional fees, in part because of the transfer of the projects and the related delays in starting construction. The cost had originally been projected at $13.7 million. So Catalyze sought and obtained an increase in sales tax breaks to $831,000, while maintaining the property tax break and dropping the mortgage tax savings. Because the increase in tax breaks was less than $100,000 for each of the two projects which are separate because two municipalities are involved no public hearing was required on the amendment. THE LATEST FeedMore WNY is launching a fundraising campaign for its expansion. A Jamestown manufacturer is undergoing its second management buyout in 12 years. A Buffalo transportation company plans to add 200 jobs. More apartments are coming to a Jefferson Avenue medical project. A local fintech startup is getting funding from Launch NY. Taylor Swift's love life opens a New Era for sales. Facing tough competition, officials take a regional approach to landing a federal tech hub. Improving credit scores hailed as a path to progress in Buffalo. Buffalo-area UAW workers are ready to strike if called. Amazon is opening a center in Buffalo to recruit workers for its local warehouses. A local startup is getting a $500,000 investment. The region's unemployment rate jumped after August's steep job losses. Grand Island is considering an even stiffer limit on the size of new buildings. The 43North finalists have been announced. A new affordable and senior citizen housing project is underway in Buffalo. A zombie hotel in Amherst has come back to life. Catching up with labor activist and author Bill Fletcher Jr. Check out the changes in food and drink service at Highmark Stadium. A Buffalo manufacturer plans to nearly double its workforce. Town of Niagara officials balk at a low-income apartment project. A new retail and residential project is in the works for Niagara Street. A Buffalo affordable housing project is getting a more contemporary look. Moog Inc.'s new CEO isn't a U.S. citizen and that's causing problems. New Era Cap Co. reportedly is considering going public. ICYMI Five reads from Buffalo Next: 1. Students fueled the region's job growth when they returned for the summer. When they went back to class, it blew a big hole in the Buffalo Niagara job market. 2. UB grad students seek solutions that make a social impact. 3. Choosing Buffalo: Odoo decides WNY is right place for substantial North American growth. 5. A new Buffalo venture thinks it can help plants grow better indoors by using artificial intelligence. The Buffalo Next team gives you the big picture on the regions economic revitalization. Email tips to buffalonext@buffnews.com or reach Buffalo Next Editor David Robinson at 716-849-4435. Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up to get the latest in your inbox five days a week. National Grid is providing over $1.5 million in incentives and grants to support a $621 million production facility under construction in Cattaraugus County. Great Lakes Cheeses manufacturing plant in Franklinville is set to open next year and will ultimately replace the companys existing facility in Cuba, in Allegany County. National Grid is providing the project with $1 million in energy efficiency incentives; Great Lakes is eligible for those incentives because it is installing lighting, refrigeration and other equipment aimed at reducing energy consumption by a projected 6 million kilowatt hours. The utility is also providing a $500,000 economic development grant to help offset the costs of Great Lakes utility infrastructure, and $33,000 to help offset about the third of the cost of installing eight plugs for EV drivers. Earlier this month, National Grid energized the first phase of the new facility, allowing Great Lakes to test its processes and equipment. A final energizing phase is scheduled to be completed later this year. The Franklinville project is the largest in Cattaraugus County history. Its cost estimate was driven up from an initial $500 million estimate by supply shortages, cost increases and rising wages. Even at the initial estimate, it was one of the largest private-sector ventures in Western New York. The new plant plans to start with packaging operations before adding cheese manufacturing. The 230 employees of its Cuba location will shift to the new location, which is about 18 miles away. Once the new plant is up and running, Great Lakes plans to add at least 200 jobs and anticipates doubling its daily milk purchases, to 4 million pounds. Great Lakes, which is based in Hiram, Ohio, chose the Franklinville site after a two-year search for a location to build a replacement for its Cuba factory. The company said it lacked room to expand at its current location. Ken Kujawa, National Grids regional director, said the new plant should promote regional employment as agricultural jobs are retained. Some manufacturers will often compete for their parent companys corporate investment dollars, Kujawa said. And when costs can be lowered and kept low for area companies like Great Lakes, it can help them grow and prosper. Quiz Answer Key and Fun Facts 1. Prohibition of poll taxes 24th Amendment "Section 1. The right of citizens of the United States to vote in any primary or other election for President or Vice President, for electors for President or Vice President, or for Senator or Representative in Congress, shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State by reason of failure to pay any poll tax or other tax. Section 2. The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation." After Reconstruction, southern states took action to disenfranchise African American votes, and one method was requiring a poll tax in order to vote. This was upheld by the 1937 case, Breedlove v. Suttles. Congress tried to outlaw poll taxes during the New Deal era but were unsuccessful. Poll taxes were repealed by the 24th Amendment which was proposed on August 27, 1962 and ratified on January 23, 1964, at which point five states (Alabama, Arkansas, Mississippi, Texas, and Virginia), still had poll tax laws. The 1966 case Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections confirmed that poll taxes are unconstitutional. Answer:"Section 1. The right of citizens of the United States to vote in any primary or other election for President or Vice President, for electors for President or Vice President, or for Senator or Representative in Congress, shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State by reason of failure to pay any poll tax or other tax.Section 2. The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation."After Reconstruction, southern states took action to disenfranchise African American votes, and one method was requiring a poll tax in order to vote. This was upheld by the 1937 case, Breedlove v. Suttles. Congress tried to outlaw poll taxes during the New Deal era but were unsuccessful. Poll taxes were repealed by the 24th Amendment which was proposed on August 27, 1962 and ratified on January 23, 1964, at which point five states (Alabama, Arkansas, Mississippi, Texas, and Virginia), still had poll tax laws. The 1966 case Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections confirmed that poll taxes are unconstitutional. 2. Non-enumerated rights retained by the people Answer: 9th Amendment "The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people." The 9th Amendment has generally been used to prevent the expansion of federal powers and is sometimes used in conjunction with other Amendments, such as the 14th, in judicial decisions. It is favored by those who consider themselves originalists, but not many cases have tuned on the 9th Amendment. 3. Presidential Inauguration moved to January 20 Answer: 20th Amendment "Section 1. The terms of the President and Vice President shall end at noon on the 20th day of January, and the terms of Senators and Representatives at noon on the 3d day of January, of the years in which such terms would have ended if this article had not been ratified; and the terms of their successors shall then begin. Section 2. The Congress shall assemble at least once in every year, and such meeting shall begin at noon on the 3d day of January unless they shall by law appoint a different day. Section 3. If, at the time fixed for the beginning of the term of the President, the President-elect shall have died, the Vice President-elect shall become President. If a President shall not have been chosen before the time fixed for the beginning of his term, or if the President-elect shall have failed to qualify, then the Vice President-elect shall act as President until a President shall have qualified; and the Congress may by law provide for the case wherein neither a President-elect nor a Vice President-elect shall have qualified, declaring who shall then act as President, or the manner in which one who is to act shall be selected, and such person shall act accordingly until a President or Vice President shall have qualified. Section 4. The Congress may by law provide for the case of the death of any of the persons from whom the House of Representatives may choose a President whenever the right of choice shall have devolved upon them, and for the case of the death of any of the persons from whom the Senate may choose a Vice President whenever the right of choice shall have devolved upon them. Section 5. Sections 1 and 2 shall take effect on the 15th day of October following the ratification of this article. Section 6. This article shall be inoperative unless it shall have been ratified as an amendment to the Constitution by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several States within seven years from the date of its submission." A long Amendment for a fairly simple task. Until 1937, Presidents and the Congress were sworn in on March 4. In a time with slow travel it made sense but by the 20th century the long "lame duck" period had become both unnecessary and potentially problematic. The 20th Amendment was proposed on March 2, 1932 and ratified on January 23, 1923. 4. Prohibition of cruel and unusual punishment and excessive bail 8th Amendment "Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted." The 8th Amendment is similar to a clause in the 1689 English Bill of Rights. It has been used to limit but not completely outlaw the death penalty (the United States was one of 21 countries to carry out at least one execution in 2022) and prohibit some other physical punishments. The excessive bail clause applies both to pre-trial bail to ensure a defendant's appearance at trial and to excessive fines as post conviction punishment. Along with the rest of the Bill of Rights, it was adopted on December 15, 1791. Answer:"Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted."The 8th Amendment is similar to a clause in the 1689 English Bill of Rights. It has been used to limit but not completely outlaw the death penalty (the United States was one of 21 countries to carry out at least one execution in 2022) and prohibit some other physical punishments. The excessive bail clause applies both to pre-trial bail to ensure a defendant's appearance at trial and to excessive fines as post conviction punishment. Along with the rest of the Bill of Rights, it was adopted on December 15, 1791. 5. District of Columbia residents obtained the right to vote for President Answer: 23rd Amendment "Section 1. The District constituting the seat of Government of the United States shall appoint in such manner as the Congress may direct: A number of electors of President and Vice President equal to the whole number of Senators and Representatives in Congress to which the District would be entitled if it were a State, but in no event more than the least populous State; they shall be in addition to those appointed by the States, but they shall be considered, for the purposes of the election of President and Vice President, to be electors appointed by a State; and they shall meet in the District and perform such duties as provided by the twelfth article of amendment. Section 2. The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation." Until 1961, although residents of the District of Columbia are citizens of the US, they were unable to vote in Presidential elections. Enfranchising residents of the capital city was first suggested in the late 19th Century but the movement didn't catch on until the 1950s. The 23rd Amendment was proposed on June 16, 1960 and ratified on March 29, 1961, allowing DC residents to vote for President in 1964. As of the 2020 election, DC has three votes in the Electoral College and has a population greater than two states, Vermont and Wyoming. DC does not have full representation in Congress, with a non-voting Delegate rather than a Representative and no Senators (like other US Territories such as Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands). 6. Involuntary quartering of troops Answer: 3rd Amendment "No Soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any house, without the consent of the Owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law." There's a reason why the 3rd Amendment is rarely discussed - troops usually have their own quarters (either a base or, in the past, camps). The Amendment was included in the Bill of Rights in reaction to the Quartering Act of 1774 anquartering troops was one of the grievances listed in the Declaration of Independence. There is a 1982 case, Englbom v. Carey, which turns on the 3rd Amendment, though. It concerns National Guard members who were called in to replace striking prison guards. 7. Restricts the right of individuals to sue states in Federal Court 11th Amendment "The Judicial power of the United States shall not be construed to extend to any suit in law or equity, commenced or prosecuted against one of the United States by Citizens of another State, or by Citizens or Subjects of any Foreign State." The 11th Amendment was written in reaction to the 1793 case Chisholm v. Georgia in which Alexander Chisholm, the executor of Robert Farquhar's estate, tried to enforce payment on a contract for goods which had not been paid before Farquhar's death. The Supreme Court gave the citizens the right to sue states in Federal Court and the Amendment codified that right. It was proposed on March 4, 1794 and ratified on February 7, 1797. Answer:"The Judicial power of the United States shall not be construed to extend to any suit in law or equity, commenced or prosecuted against one of the United States by Citizens of another State, or by Citizens or Subjects of any Foreign State."The 11th Amendment was written in reaction to the 1793 case Chisholm v. Georgia in which Alexander Chisholm, the executor of Robert Farquhar's estate, tried to enforce payment on a contract for goods which had not been paid before Farquhar's death. The Supreme Court gave the citizens the right to sue states in Federal Court and the Amendment codified that right. It was proposed on March 4, 1794 and ratified on February 7, 1797. 8. Voting age lowered to 18 Answer: 26th Amendment "Section 1. The right of citizens of the United States, who are eighteen years of age or older, to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of age. Section 2. The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation." "Old enough to fight - old enough to vote." Although the first proposals to lower the voting age to 18 started in the 1940s, it was the Vietnam War which led to a popular movement to lower the voting age because draftees were being sent to fight before they were legally old enough to vote. Despite complaints that 18-year-olds might not be mature enough to vote, the 26th Amendment was the fastest to pass, introduced on March 2, 1971 and ratified eight days later on March 10. 9. Method of electing President and Vice President Answer: 12th Amendment "The Electors shall meet in their respective states, and vote by ballot for President and Vice-President, one of whom, at least, shall not be an inhabitant of the same state with themselves; they shall name in their ballots the person voted for as President, and in distinct ballots the person voted for as Vice-President, and they shall make distinct lists of all persons voted for as President, and all persons voted for as Vice-President and of the number of votes for each, which lists they shall sign and certify, and transmit sealed to the seat of the government of the United States, directed to the President of the Senate; The President of the Senate shall, in the presence of the Senate and House of Representatives, open all the certificates and the votes shall then be counted; The person having the greatest number of votes for President, shall be the President, if such number be a majority of the whole number of Electors appointed; and if no person have such majority, then from the persons having the highest numbers not exceeding three on the list of those voted for as President, the House of Representatives shall choose immediately, by ballot, the President. But in choosing the President, the votes shall be taken by states, the representation from each state having one vote; a quorum for this purpose shall consist of a member or members from two-thirds of the states, and a majority of all the states shall be necessary to a choice. And if the House of Representatives shall not choose a President whenever the right of choice shall devolve upon them, before the fourth day of March next following, then the Vice-President shall act as President, as in the case of the death or other constitutional disability of the President.[a] The person having the greatest number of votes as Vice-President, shall be the Vice-President, if such number be a majority of the whole number of Electors appointed, and if no person have a majority, then from the two highest numbers on the list, the Senate shall choose the Vice-President; a quorum for the purpose shall consist of two-thirds of the whole number of Senators, and a majority of the whole number shall be necessary to a choice. But no person constitutionally ineligible to the office of President shall be eligible to that of Vice-President of the United States." The 12th Amendment superseded Article II, Section 1, Clause 3 of the Constitution which governed the Electoral College's selection of the President and Vice President. Under the prior clause, the electors did not distinguish between Presidential and Vice Presidential votes and the runner-up became Vice President. With the rise of political parties, this led to the election of President/Vice President pairs who were at political odds, notably the 1796 election of John Adams as President and Thomas Jefferson as Vice President. The 12th Amendment was proposed on December 9, 1803 and ratified on June 15, 1804. Massachusetts voted to ratify the Amendment in 1961. 10. Presidential term limits 22nd Amendment "Section 1. No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice, and no person who has held the office of President, or acted as President, for more than two years of a term to which some other person was elected President shall be elected to the office of the President more than once. But this Article shall not apply to any person holding the office of President when this Article was proposed by the Congress, and shall not prevent any person who may be holding the office of President, or acting as President, during the term within which this Article becomes operative from holding the office of President or acting as President during the remainder of such term. Section 2. This Article shall be inoperative unless it shall have been ratified as an amendment to the Constitution by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several states within seven years from the date of its submission to the states by the Congress." Although it wasn't codified, most Presidents followed George Washington's example and never ran for a third term (Teddy Roosevelt, who ran on the Progressive ticket four years after serving nearly 8 years, was an exception) before Franklin Roosevelt won a third and then fourth term in 1940 and 1944. One can argue that it was wise to keep the same President in light of the Depression and WWII, but his poor health, leading to his death three months into his final term, was a drawback. In reaction to FDR's three-plus terms, the 22nd Amendment was introduced on March 12, 1947 and ratified on February 27, 1951. Answer:"Section 1. No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice, and no person who has held the office of President, or acted as President, for more than two years of a term to which some other person was elected President shall be elected to the office of the President more than once. But this Article shall not apply to any person holding the office of President when this Article was proposed by the Congress, and shall not prevent any person who may be holding the office of President, or acting as President, during the term within which this Article becomes operative from holding the office of President or acting as President during the remainder of such term.Section 2. This Article shall be inoperative unless it shall have been ratified as an amendment to the Constitution by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several states within seven years from the date of its submission to the states by the Congress."Although it wasn't codified, most Presidents followed George Washington's example and never ran for a third term (Teddy Roosevelt, who ran on the Progressive ticket four years after serving nearly 8 years, was an exception) before Franklin Roosevelt won a third and then fourth term in 1940 and 1944. One can argue that it was wise to keep the same President in light of the Depression and WWII, but his poor health, leading to his death three months into his final term, was a drawback. In reaction to FDR's three-plus terms, the 22nd Amendment was introduced on March 12, 1947 and ratified on February 27, 1951. 11. Federal Income Tax Answer: 16th Amendment "The Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States, and without regard to any census or enumeration." Likely everyone's least favorite Amendment (at least in April), the 16th Amendment allowed income taxes. There had been prior income taxes, including those instituted by the Revenue Act of 1861 (repealed in 1872), but previously most federal revenue came from tariffs. Those fell harder on the poor and the Progressive movement began to press for an income tax which would weigh more heavily on the affluent. A 1894 tariff law included an income tax provision but was struck down in the 1894 case Pollock v. Farmers' Loan and trust Company. The 16th Amendment was proposed on July 12 1909 and ratified on February 23, 1913. 12. States rights/Federalism Answer: 10th Amendment "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." The 10th Amendment is the basis of Federalism (or state's rights) in the US Constitution. Anti-civil rights activists have used it, with varying degrees of success, to counter the 14th Amendment based actions to increase rights. Since the 1992 case New York v. United States, the 10th Amendment has prohibited the United States from forcing states to pass or enforce specific legislation. 13. Representatives cannot increase their own pay Answer: 27th Amendment "No law, varying the compensation for the services of the Senators and Representatives, shall take effect, until an election of Representatives shall have intervened." The newest (as of 2023) Amendment was initially proposed in 1789 as part of the Bill of Rights but was not ratified (although 7 states ratified it by 1792 and Ohio in 1973). Nearly two centuries later, objections to Congressional pay raises revived interest in the Amendment and between 1978 and May 7, 1992 an additional 30 states ratified the Amendment, allowing it to be enacted. 14. Direct election of Senators Answer: 17th Amendment "The Senate of the United States shall be composed of two Senators from each State, elected by the people thereof, for six years; and each Senator shall have one vote. The electors in each State shall have the qualifications requisite for electors of the most numerous branch of the State legislatures. When vacancies happen in the representation of any State in the Senate, the executive authority of such State shall issue writs of election to fill such vacancies: Provided, That the legislature of any State may empower the executive thereof to make temporary appointments until the people fill the vacancies by election as the legislature may direct. This amendment shall not be so construed as to affect the election or term of any Senator chosen before it becomes valid as part of the Constitution." Until the 17th Amendment, Senators were selected by state legislatures according to Article I Section 3 of the Constitution. During the 19th Century this led to a sense that the Senate may be corruptible or that Senators may be more beholden to their political benefactors than the public. A 1866 Act of Congress instituted a two step process for approving Senators, but that led to deadlocks and empty states in several states. Direct election of Senators was first proposed in 1911 and the 17th Amendment was ratified on April 8, 1913. 15. Right to jury trial in civil lawsuits Answer: 7th Amendment "In Suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact tried by a jury, shall be otherwise re-examined in any Court of the United States, than according to the rules of the common law." The 7th Amendment doesn't get a lot of attention because it's fairly straightforward and uncontroversial. Trial by jury had long been part of English common law, so including it in the Bill of Rights (and soon after setting the minimum jury size at 6 and amount in controversy at $20) led to relatively few judicial cases. Source: Author MariaVerde This quiz was reviewed by FunTrivia editor stedman before going online.Any errors found in FunTrivia content are routinely corrected through our feedback system. A Depew man has pleaded guilty to selling fentanyl that caused the deaths of two people, U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced. Jonathan DiPirro, 33, entered his plea to a charge of distribution of acetyl fentanyl and fentanyl causing death before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra. He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in prison, a maximum of life and a $1 million fine when he is sentenced March 26. Prosecutors said DiPirro sold drugs on Nov. 2, 2019, and March 4, 2020, to people who subsequently died of overdoses. According to prosecutors, investigators had made four controlled purchases of controlled substances from DiPirro in February 2020. Ross said DiPirros plea is the result of investigations by the Lancaster and Depew police departments, the State Police Violent Gang Narcotics Enforcement Team and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. - Dale Anderson A Los Angeles man was sentenced Thursday to two years in prison for a fraud scheme that used stolen IDs, compromised business email accounts, overseas co-conspirators and fraudulent purchase orders for large-screen smart TVs, LCD projectors and drones. Shola Yusuf Adediji, 39, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and his plea agreement indicated the total loss resulting from his conduct was over $250,000. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Bonanno said that between May and August 2019, Adediji conspired with others to defraud two electronics businesses, one in Amherst and one in Fort Myers, Fla., to obtain the high-end electronic merchandise. Adediji and others posed as customers and completed fraudulent purchase orders. Throughout the scheme, both businesses shipped merchandise to Adediji and others throughout the United States. Adediji used the fictitious name Michael Kopeck to rent a storage unit where the fraudulently obtained merchandise was stored. Bonanno called the scheme very involved, calculated and methodical as he asked U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra Jr. to impose the high end of the sentencing guideline of up to 37 months. Defense attorney Steven Brill asked Sinatra for a lenient sentence for Adediji, saying the pain he has suffered by losing his freedom and family rivals any jail sentence the court is about to impose. Hes sitting here in an orange jump suit with nothing, Brill said. Blaupunkt 43-inch 4K QLED, 55-inch Google TVs Launched in India: Check Price, Specs News oi -Carlsen Martin German brand Blaupunkt recently unveiled two 4K TVs in India. Blaupunkt's latest 4K TVs come in two variants, a 43-inch 4K QLED TV and a 55-inch 4K UHD LED TV. The latest Blaupunkt 4K QLED TVs fall on the affordable side of the spectrum and feature Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision support. The new 4K QLED TV also comes with a bezel-less design. Blaupunkt QLED TV Price in India The Blaupunkt QLED TV price in India is set at Rs 28,999 for the 43-inch model, while the 55-inch 4K UHD model will set you back Rs 34,999. Customers can also get an instant 10% discount using ICICI, Kotak, or Axis Bank cards. Blaupunkt's 4K TVs are available for purchase via Flipkart. Blaupunkt 43-inch QLED TV Specifications Blaupunkt latest 43-inch TV features a 4K QLED panel with a 16:09 aspect ratio. The QLED TV supports HDR10+ and Dolby Vision with a peak brightness of 550 nits. The smart TV is also equipped with 50W speakers with Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, and DTS TruSurround sound. The TV offers seamless connectivity with Bluetooth 5.0, Dual-Band Wi-Fi, Google Assistant, and built-in Chromecast. Blaupunkt's latest QLED television runs on Google TV. Speaking on the launch, Avneet Singh Marwah, CEO of SPPL exclusive brand licensee of Blaupunkt TVs in India, said, "At Blaupunkt India, we are relentlessly committed to using powerful and cutting-edge technology to improve the lives of our consumers. These state-of-the-art televisions underscore our dedication to offering cutting-edge technology and an immersive viewing experience." Blaupunkt 55-inch Google TV Blaupunkt's 55-inch Google TV features a 4K UHD LED panel with a bezel-less design. The TV supports 4K HDR10+ with 1.1 billion colors. It delivers cinematic sound quality, powered by Dolby Digital Plus and a 60W Stereo Box Speaker system with DTS TruSurround technology. The TV offers seamless connectivity with Bluetooth 5.0, Dual-Band Wi-Fi, Google Assistant, Airplay, and built-in Chromecast. The 55-inch Blaupunkt TV is powered by the MediaTek MT9062 processor paired with the Mali-G52 GPU. The TV also comes with 2GB of RAM and 16GB of storage on-board. Best Mobiles in India Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow Notifications X (Twitter) Under Fire for Removing Misinformation Reporting Feature News oi -Kabir Jain In an era where misinformation has reached alarming levels on the internet, social media platforms have taken steps to combat the spread of false information. However, a recent move by X, formerly known as Twitter, has raised concerns as the platform disabled a feature that allowed users to report political misinformation. A Troubling Change The removal of the option to report posts containing political misinformation was discovered by Reset.Australia, a digital research group that issued an open letter addressing this issue. While users can still report posts for other violations, such as hate speech, abuse, harassment, and child safety and privacy concerns, the absence of a specific category for political misinformation is a cause for concern. In an age where access to accurate information is of paramount importance, this decision by X raises questions about its commitment to addressing misinformation and fake news. The ability for users to report misleading content played a crucial role in community-driven efforts to combat misinformation on the platform. The Motivation Behind the Change The reasons behind X's decision to remove the option to report political misinformation remain unclear. This change comes amid a series of controversial decisions made under the leadership of Elon Musk, including the introduction of paid blue verification badges and discussions about implementing a monthly subscription model for users. Implications for Elections The removal of a reporting feature for political misinformation is particularly concerning in the lead-up to significant elections. It limits the ability of users to report suspected political misinformation and may hinder efforts to curtail false claims about electoral integrity. Misinformation about elections has become a pressing issue in recent years, and social media platforms are under increasing pressure to address this challenge. Australia, for instance, is gearing up for a significant referendum, its first in 25 years, which will decide whether to establish an Indigenous advisory body to parliament. In the United States, a presidential election is just over a year away. With the removal of the reporting feature, there are concerns that content violating X's own policy on electoral misinformation may go unchecked. Community Concerns Reset.Tech Australia, in its letter to X's managing director for Australia, Angus Keene, expressed deep concerns about the removal of the reporting feature. The organization emphasized that this change could leave serious misinformation unchecked, especially in the lead-up to important political events. Musk's Vision for Fact-Checking Elon Musk, since taking control of X, has emphasized the importance of the "Community Notes" feature, which allows users to comment on posts to flag false or misleading content. However, these notes only become public when rated as helpful by a range of contributors with varying perspectives, according to X's website. A Growing Challenge for X X has faced mounting criticism for its handling of issues such as hate speech, antisemitism, and misinformation since Musk took the platform private in late 2022. The removal of the political misinformation reporting feature adds to these concerns, raising questions about the platform's commitment to addressing the spread of false information. Via Best Mobiles in India Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow Notifications Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Series Tablets Specifications, Features Leak: QHD Display, Exynos 1380 SoC, 12GB RAM News oi -Alap Naik Desai Samsung is expected to launch the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE (Fan Edition) series tablet early next month. These midrange tablets are packed with useful features and ultra-high-resolution displays, a new leak indicates. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE series includes the Galaxy Tab S9 FE and the Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus tablets. Let's look at the leaked specifications, features, expected launch, price, and availability. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Series Tablets Specifications, Features The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE series includes the entry-level Galaxy Tab S9 FE tablet, which features a 10.9-inch QHD LCD screen with a resolution of 2304 x 1440 pixels. The top-end Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus tablet features a larger 12.4-inch QHD+ WQXGA LCD panel with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels. A leak claims only the larger Plus model will support the Samsung S-Pen stylus. Both tablets in the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE series will be powered by the Samsung Exynos 1380 SoC. The entry-level Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE tablet will be available in 6GB RAM + 128GB internal storage, and 8GB RAM + 256GB internal storage models. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE, Galaxy Tab A9 visit Google Play Console listing. Tab S9 FE: Android 13 6GB RAM Exynos 1380 Tab A9: Android 13 4GB RAM MediaTek Helio G99#Samsung #SamsungGalaxyTabS9FE #SamsungGalaxyTabA9 pic.twitter.com/dw3et7SN7P Mukul Sharma (@stufflistings) September 21, 2023 The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus tablet will be available with either 8GB or 12GB RAM. Buyers will be able to choose between 128GB and 256GB of internal storage. Both tablets will feature a dedicated microSD card to expand onboard storage and a 12MP front-facing camera. The entry-level tablet in the upcoming series will feature a single 8MP rear camera. The Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus will feature a dual rear camera setup comprising an 8MP primary rear camera, which will be accompanied by an additional 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE will be powered by an 8000mAh battery, while the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus is packing a 10,090mAh battery. Samsung hasn't indicated the wired fast-charging tech these tablets will support. Rumors about the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE and FE+ - FE will have 10.9" display while FE+ will have 12.4" display - Only FE+ will come with stylus - not impressive, but they'd both come with LCD display instead of OLED - 8MP camera on FE, 12 on FE+ Will be launching next month pic.twitter.com/MmJfwN1lLL Orion (@TheHumanOrion) September 26, 2023 Both tablets in the upcoming series are running Android 13-based One UI 5.1. Some of the notable connectivity features of these tablets include Bluetooth 5.3, dual-band Wi-Fi 6, and NFC. These tablets have secured an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. Samsung is tipped to offer iterations of these tablets that will support 5G cellular connectivity. However, there's no confirmation about the same yet. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE | FE Plus Price (Rumored) Samsung hasn't confirmed the actual launch date of these tablets. However, they could be announced early next month. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE series will be available in gray, mint, silver, and lavender color options. However, some color options could be limited to certain markets. The entry-level model of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE will be priced at Euro 529 (approx. $555 / 46,000), while the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ will be priced at Euro 699 (approx. $735 / 61,000). The 5G variants of these tablets would cost an additional 100 euros. Best Mobiles in India Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow Notifications Defence Minister Sklenar in talks with Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) in Munich over possibility of repairing and servicing Slovak Army's Leopard 2A4 MTBs in Slovakia Ministry of Defence of The Slovak Republic 22.09.2023 As part of his working trip to Germany today, Defence Minister Martin Sklenar visited Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW)'s headquarters in Munich. KMW is a world-renowned manufacturer of artillery, wheeled and tracked armoured platforms, including Leopard 1 and 2 main battle tanks. The head of the MOD held talks with representatives of KMW over opportunities to take existing cooperation forward. "While working closely with Germany and KMW on repairs of Ukraines heavy military equipment in Michalovce, opportunities are now opening up for further collaboration, investment, and job creation in eastern Slovakia," Minister Sklenar said. The talks mainly focused on the possibility of servicing and repairing the Slovak Army-operated Leopard 2A4 MTBs directly in Slovakia. The depot-level maintenance and repair could be conducted by state-owned KONSTRUKTA - Defence. If so, the company would acquire a new capability to service and repair these tanks. On the possible future arrangements of battle damage repair (BDR) operations for Ukraine in Slovakia, Defence Minister Martin Sklenar explained: "Our German partners and we are discussing the possibility of extending battle damage repair (BDR) operations to cover Ukraines other heavy equipment. Due to the BDR facilitys capacity in Michalovce, moving repairs to and centralising them at KONSTRUKTA - Defence seems to be the best way out, while keeping the whole range of repairs, just as is actually the case." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pevkur: Germany's role in regional security has increased Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Defence 26. September 2023 Minister of Defence of Estonia Hanno Pevkur today in Tallinn met with the Minister of Defence of Germany Boris Pistorius, to discuss security in the Baltic Sea region and Europe more broadly, as well as the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine. "Germany's role in the security of the region has grown significantly, both in supporting Ukraine and contributing to the security of the Baltic Sea region. Both Germany's military aid packages for Ukraine and the decisions made to strengthen the entire Baltic region speak a clear language that Germany takes supporting Ukraine as well as its obligations to Allies extremely seriously. In addition, the German defence industry is a vital partner for Estonia, because after the signing of the contract on medium-range air defence, Germany has become the largest defence procurement partner for Estonia," Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur said. In recent years, defence cooperation between Germany and Estonia has considerably grown. German fighters participate regularly in the NATO Baltic Air Policing mission to secure the skies, and Germany is the framework nation for enhanced presence in Lithuania. The cost of the medium-range air defence system IRIS-T procured from a German company Diehl Defence is nearly 400 million Euros. Today Germany is one of Ukraine's largest military support providers. Together, Estonia and Germany have sent Ukraine two military field hospitals. "In our support for Ukraine, we are all working towards the same goal," Minister of Defence of Germany Boris Pistorius said. According to Pistorius he is happy to go ahead with the contracts for the ammunition procurements to contribute to EU initiative started by Estonia. Pistorius emphasized that ammunition remains a critical factor of Ukraines sustainability. During his visit, the German Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius visited the Amari Air Base, where he also met with the Spanish NASAMS air defence unit, as well as NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence. Tomorrow, the German Minister of Defence will participate at the Annual Baltic Conference on Defence (ABCD) and meet the President of the Republic Alar Karis. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address First of 76 Patria 8x8 Armoured Modular Vehicles (AMV) XP is already in Slovakia Ministry of Defence of The Slovak Republic 26.09.2023 Today, the first of 76 Patria 8x8 Armoured Modular Vehicles (AMV) XP, which has been delivered to Slovakia to be finalised by SVK defence firms, was introduced at the First Slovak Armed Forces Patria 8x8 AMV XP Presentation Event, in the presence of Defence Minister Martin Sklenar, Deputy Defence Minister Marian Majer, Chief of Defence Gen Daniel Zmeko, and other representatives of the MOD and the Slovak Armed Forces. Also in attendance at the event presenting the Patria Ambulance (AMB) variant were Finnish Ambassador Pasi Tuominen and representatives of Patria Land Ltd as defence supplier and KONSTRUKTA-Defence JSC as prime contractor. Speaking of Slovakia's first Mechanised Infantry Vehicle (MIV) in front of media representatives, Defence Minister Martin Sklenar said: "This is a truly historic moment for our Armed Forces as these vehicles will give our forces a vital capability." As he reminded us, the Patria 8x8 AMV XP is among the most advanced vehicles of its kind and meets the highest standards and requirements in this class of armoured fighting vehicles. The first vehicle manufactured for the Slovak Armed Forces is the Patria Ambulance (AMB) variant, which, following its finalisation and trials, will be the first to be accepted into service with the Slovak Army in 2024. Despite the impact of the current situation in Ukraine on the delivery schedules for a large number of components used in the vehicle, the latest vehicle has been produced in the past 13 months since the signing of the contract documents in August 2022, Minister Sklenar pointed out. A total of 76 Patria 8x8 AMV XP vehicles are expected to be delivered by 2027 in the following variants and numbers: 60 Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFV), 10 Ambulances (AMB), and 6 Command Post (CP) vehicles. The finalisation of all Patria 8x8 AMV XPs, including the one presented at the MOD today, will be carried out in Slovakia, given that the supplier is expected to achieve SVK defence industrial involvement in the project at the level of at least 40%. This was one of the basic requirements in the terms and conditions of the contract for a replacement IFV vehicle put by the Slovak MOD out to international competition in 2021. Alongside this, Patria Land Ltd's plan to move the production of some vehicle components to Slovakia is up and running. The transfer of production capacity to Slovakia will be managed by CSM Industry JSC. To get the necessary know-how, the company is already involved in the production of the first vehicles in Finland. On SVK defence industry content in the project, Deputy Defence Minister Marian Majer said it is important that the Slovak defence firms involved in the production of the vehicles will become part of the extensive supply chain for Patria. "In practice, it is envisaged that the SVK defence industry will participate in the projects contracted by the Finnish company. So, the Slovak Armed Forces Patria 8x8 AMV XP programme is a milestone in terms of both delivering defence capabilities and strengthening our defence industrys production capacity," Deputy Defence Minister Majer said. On the newest armoured vehicle capability, Chief of Defence Gen Daniel Zmeko said: "In the Armed Forces, we consider this vehicle to be very special as some of its design elements are unique on the market. These new armoured fighting vehicles based on the 8x8 platform will replace our BVP-1 infantry fighting vehicles, which are hopelessly outdated." As Director General of the MOD Modernisation Branch and National Armaments Director Michal Homza noted, this Patria Ambulance variant will be on display by Patria Land Ltd at IDEB Bratislava at the Incheba Exhibition & Conference Centre on 3-5 October 2023, before being transferred to SVK defence firms, including to KONSTRUKTA-Defence and Aliter Technologies, for its finalisation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Blinken's Meeting with the Republic of the Marshall Islands Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Ading, the Federated States of Micronesia President Simina, and Palau President Whipps US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson September 26, 2023 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met today with the Republic of the Marshall Islands Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Jack Ading, the Federated States of Micronesia President Wesley Simina, and Palau President Surangel Whipps, Jr., in Washington, DC. The Secretary underscored the strong people-to-people ties and shared history that are underpinned by the Compacts of Free Association between the United States and the three countries, collectively known as the Freely Associated States (FAS). The Secretary commended the FAS dignitaries for the progress in the negotiations on Compact-related agreements, which signal a new era in our partnerships and help achieve a secure, free, and open Indo-Pacific. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Vermont National Guard Delegation Visits North Macedonia By Capt. Mikel Arcovitch, Joint Force Headquarters - Vermont National Guard Public Affairs September 27, 2023 SKOPJE, North Macedonia -- Maj. Gen. Greg Knight, the adjutant general for the Vermont National Guard, and a delegation of Vermont Soldiers and Airmen kicked off their visit to North Macedonia at the U.S. Embassy and Ministry of Defense in Skopje Sept. 25. North Macedonia and Vermont have been in the State Partnership Program since the Department of Defense National Guard Bureau program began in 1993. "This partnership is stronger than ever," said Knight. "I look forward to seeing continued development in the next 30 years." The first day of the visit included meetings with the U.S. Embassy staff and a brief office call with Angela Aggeler, the U.S. ambassador to North Macedonia. Aggeler and Knight discussed the strength of the partnership, where it can and will grow, and what steps the Vermont Guard can take with the embassy to that end. "The strength of this enduring partnership with Vermont goes beyond the military relationship, with much room for future growth and further cooperation," said Aggeler. The Vermont delegation next met with Lt. Gen. Vasko Gjurchinovski, North Macedonia chief of defense, and his general staff. The staff provided an update on the Army's progress in meeting NATO standards and expectations. North Macedonia became a part of NATO in 2018. Since NATO accession, North Macedonia has participated in numerous large-scale NATO training exercises, including Swift Response, Defender Europe, and Immediate Response. "I can't replicate the experience my Soldiers get when they come here and train with multiple nations," said Knight. "This progress, forged in our 30-plus years of friendship, is truly the example of what the possibilities are for state partnerships." The Vermont delegation then met with Slavjanka Petrovska, the minister of defense for North Macedonia, and her staff. The discussion focused on future military training exercises, modernization of the force and the expansion of the civilian-to-civilian relationship between Vermont and North Macedonia. Knight and Petrovska discussed the hurdles they face with growth in other sectors and pledged to remain vigilant in their pursuits. "North Macedonia is your ally, and you can rely on us. Above all, what's most important is that members of our armed forces have forged true friendships," said Petrovska. "Behind us are several large exercises that were really successful, and we are already in the planning for bigger and more significant joint training." Two years ago, Knight was joined by former Vermont Lt. Gov. Molly Gray and Vermont Secretary of Commerce Lindsay Kurrle on a trip to North Macedonia. Over the summer, North Macedonia sent Ljupco Nikolovski, its agriculture minister, to Vermont to observe Vermont farms and agriculture. Both visits underscored the effort to grow the partnership outside of the military. Knight concluded the busy day with a news conference with Petrovska, an interview with Zoran Bogatinov of MRTV out of North Macedonia, and dinner with Gjurchinovski. "Honestly, I've been coming here for over 20 years, but this is really just the beginning," said Knight. "This partnership will continue to grow well after I've left, and I hope we continue to be a model of what the State Partnership Program can and should look like." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address A Pharaoh's Gentlemen's Club bouncer turned "a blind eye" to the illicit drug use and sex acts that victimized dancers inside the Cheektowaga strip club "day after day after day," a prosecutor said Thursday. A federal grand jury indicted Brian Rosenthal, a Pharaoh's employee since 2007 or 2008, on conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, lying to the FBI and concealing a felony. "He was one of the people who allowed the crimes to happen over and over again," Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Tripi said at hearing Thursday as he asked for Rosenthal's pretrial detention. U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder Jr. declined to detain Rosenthal, saying he found no clear and convincing evidence that he is a danger to the community or a flight risk. Joseph Barsuk was indicted on the sex-trafficking conspiracy count as well as sex trafficking by coercion, and he remains detained. His detention hearing is scheduled for next week. The indictment against the two stems from the Pharaoh's investigation, which already has the Cheektowaga club's owner facing up to life imprisonment on the charges lodged against him in the high-profile case. The criminal charges against Rosenthal and Barsuk have implications for Peter Gerace Jr., the owner of the club, whose charges include maintaining Pharaohs as a drug-involved premises where vulnerable young women were exploited through their drug addictions and coerced into engaging in commercial sex acts with him, his friends and associates. Rosenthal has been a Pharaoh's bouncer for the club's VIP room. The club, Tripi said, employs vulnerable young women, some barely older than 18, who are "slowly groomed to a lifestyle of daily drug use and daily victimization." "His job was to protect women," Tripi said of Rosenthal, who was supposed to enforce the stated rules barring any illegal activity. "Those were the stated rules, but the reality was much different," Tripi said. Customers were able to pay money for him "to turn a blind eye" to illicit activity in the VIP room, Tripi said. Dancers were kissed, had their hair pulled or engaged in sex acts in the VIP room, Tripi said. Attorney Herbert Greenman, who represents Rosenthal, called what he heard from Tripi at the detention hearing "a bunch of suspicions and surmised conjecture." "When you hear one side from the government, you're left with an impression that doesn't fit the bill," Greenman told the judge. To keep his client out of pretrial custody, Greenman had to counter the prosecution's description of Rosenthal as a danger to the community and a flight risk. "There hasn't been one mention he's acted in a dangerous fashion or hurt someone," Greenman said. "The allegation is he didn't do what his job was supposed to be." Rosenthal does not have a criminal record. He will no longer work at Pharaoh's, Greenman said. Rosenthal has been diagnosed with leukemia and receives treatment at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Greenman said. "What he has to do is treat his leukemia," Greenman told the judge. "Jails are not made for people like him who need to be treated." Greenman also countered the risk of flight issue. Federal authorities notified Rosenthal in 2021 that he was being investigated as part of the Pharaoh's probe. "Did he flee the jurisdiction?" Greenman asked the judge. "Did he try to sell his home?" No, Greenman said. "He's been here ever since," he said. Federal authorities have accused Gerace of bribing Joseph Bongiovanni, at the time a Drug Enforcement Administration agent, and conspiring to engage in drug trafficking and human trafficking at Pharaohs. Prosecutors have charged the now-retired Bongiovanni with accepting $250,000 in bribes from drug dealers whom he thought were associated with Italian organized crime and shielding them from arrest, as well as providing them with information about investigations and cooperating sources. Both have pleaded not guilty. "That gentlemen's club virtually since its inception has been operated as a criminal enterprise," Tripi told the judge Thursday. Rosenthal denied such acts happened when interviewed by the FBI. He told the FBI "he loved working there," Tripi said. "He lied to the FBI. A grand jury found he lied to the FBI," Tripi added. Both Rosenthal and Barsuk pleaded not guilty at their arraignment Wednesday. Barsuk remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. Barsuk will seek his pretrial release at a hearing next week. The indictment accused both defendants of conspiring to recruit, entice, harbor and transport a person to engage in a commercial sex act while disregarding that force or threats of force and coercion were used against the person. The indictment accused Rosenthal of lying to special agents of the FBI on June 18, 2020, by denying that sex acts ever occurred in the VIP rooms or elsewhere in the club. He also allegedly falsely denied seeing any of the acts even though he "then and there well knew sex acts had occurred" in the VIP rooms and area of Pharaoh's. The indictment accused Rosenthal of concealing the felonies "by making false, fraudulent and fictitious statements" and did not alert authorities to the alleged crimes. The count of sex trafficking by coercion against Barsuk includes the terms "patronize" and "solicit" among his actions, indicating he may have been a Pharaoh's customer not an employee. September 27, 2023 Release DOD Awards $53 Million in Grants Under the National Defense Education Program The Department of Defense, through the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense (OUSD) for Research and Engineering (R&E), recently announced grant awards totaling up to $53 million to 13 organizations under the National Defense Education Program. The grants support the NDEP's Manufacturing Engineering Education Program, STEM scholarship programs, Civil Society programs, and Enhanced Civics Education programs. "In an era of global competition, the United States needs its next generation to be civic-minded, technically proficient, and eager to tackle the challenges of the 21st century," said Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering Heidi Shyu. "These awards are investments in our national talent base, geared towards ensuring our nation is able to maintain its military, economic, and technological edge." MANUFACTURING ENGINEERING EDUCATION PROGRAM (MEEP) MEEP is funding three-year grants that establish programs or enhance existing programs to better position the manufacturing workforce to produce military systems and components that assure technological superiority for DoD. Monroe Community College (Rochester, New York): "Defense Engineering Education Program-Enhancing Results in Optics (DEEPER OPS)" (Rochester, New York): "Defense Engineering Education Program-Enhancing Results in Optics (DEEPER OPS)" Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Blacksburg, Virginia): "Future Additive Interdisciplinary Manufacturing (FAIM)" (Blacksburg, Virginia): "Future Additive Interdisciplinary Manufacturing (FAIM)" Arizona Board of Regents on behalf of Arizona State University (Tempe, Arizona): "Manufacturing Certification 2 Degree Consortium (C2D)" (Tempe, Arizona): "Manufacturing Certification 2 Degree Consortium (C2D)" Spark Photonics Foundation, Inc. (Waltham, Massachusetts): "A Scalable Semiconductor Manufacturing Education and Outreach Program" STEM SCHOLARSHIPS PROGRAMS The following four- to five-year grants support scholarship programs for students intending to pursue research careers in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) fields. Kansas State University (Manhattan, Kansas): "Applied Research and Innovation Scholarship for Engineering Students in Advanced Aerospace Technologies, AI, and Cybersecurity (ARISE)" (Manhattan, Kansas): "Applied Research and Innovation Scholarship for Engineering Students in Advanced Aerospace Technologies, AI, and Cybersecurity (ARISE)" Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation (Alexandria, Virginia): "Identifying, Encouraging, and Financially Supporting the Next Generation of the STEM Research Workforce" CIVIL SOCIETY The following three-year grants provide enhanced civics education in areas such as critical thinking and media literacy and interest in public service. Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, Maryland): "Civics Education for the 21st Century" (Baltimore, Maryland): "Civics Education for the 21st Century" Trustees of Indiana University (Bloomington, Indiana): "Democracy Quest" (Bloomington, Indiana): "Democracy Quest" President and Fellows of Harvard College (Cambridge, Massachusetts): "Educating for American Democracy-A National Program for Civic Educator Professional Development" (Cambridge, Massachusetts): "Educating for American Democracy-A National Program for Civic Educator Professional Development" University of Montana (Missoula, Montana): "Strengthening American Democracy by Bridging Divides" ENHANCED CIVICS EDUCATION Section 234 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 directed OUSD(R&E) to implement a pilot program on enhanced civics education. The following one- to two-years grants will prepare the next generation of leaders and thinkers to better understand the U.S. Government and their roles as citizens. Education Development Center, Inc. (Waltham, Massachusetts ): "Supporting Readiness through Vital Civic Empowerment (SRVCE) Phase 2: Synergizing Civics and STEM through Teacher Learning" iCivics, Inc. (Cambridge, Massachusetts): "Scaling a Model That Works: Civics, Service, and Leadership ('iCSL')" American Institutes for Research (Arlington, Virginia): "Thinking Pro: Enhancing Civics Education" To read the selected awardees' abstracts and learn about other DoD STEM partners, visit https://dodstem.us/about/partners/. About USD(R&E) The Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (USD(R&E)) is the Chief Technology Officer of the Department of Defense. The USD(R&E) champions research, science, technology, engineering, and innovation to maintain the United States military's technological advantage. Learn more at www.cto.mil, follow us on Twitter @DoDCTO, or visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/ousdre. https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3539795/ NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address September 27, 2023 Speech A Partnership of Principle and Progress: Remarks by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III During a Trip to Africa (As Delivered) As Delivered by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III National Archives of Angola, Luanda, Angola Well, thank you, Ambassador, for that very kind introduction. And good afternoon, everyone. You know, this really is an outstanding crowd. Mr. President, Ministers of State, Ministers, Justices, Ambassadors, distinguished gueststhank you all for being here today. It is indeed the honor of a lifetime to be here with all of you. And this is my first trip across Africa as the U.S. Secretary of Defense. And it is also the very first visitas you heard the Ambassador saythe very first visit to Angola by an American Secretary of Defense. So it is especially fitting that we are gathered at Angola's National Archivebecause I believe that we can make even more history together, and we can make even more progress together. My team and I arrived in Angola yesterday after some great meetings with our valued partners in Djibouti and Kenya. And I'm especially pleased to be wrapping up a busy week-long trip to Africa here in Angola. Over the past few years, America's relationship with Angola has taken huge strides. Angola has become a highly valued, highly capable partner for the United Statesand a rising leader in the region and beyond. So we're deepening our cooperation with your government on military modernization, training, maritime security, and medical readiness. And we're committed to working together even more closely on peacekeeping, climate, intelligence, space cooperation, and more. So I'm here in Angola to strengthen that robust and equal partnership. But I'm also here to underscore an important point. And that is that Africa matters. It matters profoundly to the shape of the 21st-century world. And it matters for our common prosperity and our shared security. Africa also matters deeply to the United States, and to my boss, President Biden. And I can tell you firsthand that the President believes that Africa's success is crucial to all of our futures. You know, his passion for Africa goes all the way back to his days as a young senator. So when President Biden spoke to African leaders from 49 countries, he said it from the heart: "The United States is 'all in' on Africa's future." Now, the President also knows that the continent faces major challenges. Africa is on the front lines of many of the 21st century's most urgent shared threats: pandemics, food insecurity, the climate crisis, terrorism, the plundering of resources, and the return of autocracy. But as I've seen firsthand this week, some very inspiring African leaders, activists, and change-makers are on those front lines as well. And they're confronting a whole range of big challenges head on. I'm thinking today of a young Angolan named Boas Fernando. And I think Boas is here with us today. [Applause] Boas is an entrepreneur working to end food insecurity here in Angola. And several years ago, he received a fellowship from our State Department to study in the United States. So this son of Angola found himself in Iowaand Iowa is a state where the average low temperature in January is around minus-nine degrees Celsius. [Murmurs] But Iowa is also a major producer of corn, a crop that's in high demand here in Angola. And Mr. Fernando realized that he could use his skillsand the relationships that he had built in Iowato connect American farmers with Angolan consumers, and bring corn from Iowa to the shores of Angola. And that's great for both of our countries. In fact, he was so inspired by his time in Iowa that he's now working to adapt the agricultural business models that he saw there in Iowa to grow Angola's own food stocks. Now, that's a story of drive and partnership. So let's give Boas a hand. [Applause] And that's just the tale of one young person. When you stack together all the energy of this country and this continent, when you add up everything that I've seen this weekwell, I come away from this trip with a whole lot of optimism about Africa's future. As President Biden says, "There's a fundamental truth of the 21st century... that our own success is bound up with others succeeding as well." So when we all have a seat at the table, when we work as equals toward shared goals, when we listen and not just lecture, when we invest in our common securitythen we have building blocks for a partnership of principle and progress. The United States is deeply committed to making sure that Africa enjoys all the protections of the international rules and norms that advance security and prosperity. You know, other countries may see African countries as proxies or even pawnsbut we see African nations as partners. The Biden administration believes that the future is being written today in Africa. And we want to move forward together, through growing partnerships rooted in mutual cooperation and mutual respect. Now, you've heard this administration's commitment to Africa from President Biden, Vice President Harris, Secretary of State Blinken, the First Lady, and many more. But as the Secretary of Defense, I'd like to focus today on how we can build up defense partnerships that advance our shared security and extend our shared values. So I'd like to talk about how the United States military is working with our valued partners in Africa to make the continent and the world more secure, more open, and just. I'll talk frankly about the challenges that we face on security, counterterrorism, and 21st-century dangers. And I'll tell you why I am so optimistic that our shared future is one of peace, prosperity, and above all freedom. Now, our military cooperation with our African partners today is far stronger than it was just a few years ago. We're working to deepen defense relationships that are rooted in equality and mutual respect. We're joining hands with new partners and building new coalitions to oppose aggression and uphold sovereignty. And we're empowering our partners to pursue locally, nationally, and regionally led solutions to the dangers that they face. These threats include violent extremism, piracy, cyber vulnerabilities, and climate disastersall too often made worse by weak governance, and predatory institutions, and persistent poverty. So we're determined to work with our valued African partners to develop the capabilities that they need to keep their people safe. So our outstanding U.S. Africa Command, led by General Michael Langley, provides a range of support to our partners in Africa. And that includes professional military education, capacity-building, counterterrorism, logistics, and much, much more. To further grow the capacities of our African partners, President Biden last year established the 21st-Century Partnership for African Security. Now, this important initiative supports AFRICOM's work alongside our partners up and down the continentfrom building up maritime capacities in Djibouti to training alongside Kenyan forces on special operations. Now, many of our partnershipsincluding with Angolafocus on our expanding cooperation on maritime security. African coastal nations must be able to tackle threats at sea, from trafficking and piracy to illegal and unregulated fishing. So we're working with our partners to block illicit activity, to deepen interoperability at sea, to protect local fisheries, and to keep the commercial shipping lanes free for everyone. Now, far too many Africans still face persistent threats from violent extremist organizations. Terrorist groups like al-Shabaab and ISIS deliberately target innocent civilians and wreak havoc on communities across the continent. And their cruelty propels waves of suffering and instability that spill across borders. So African security forces must be able to combat these groups, and defend their sovereignty to protect their people. And that's a key focus for AFRICOM. Last year, the United States re-established a small, persistent military presence in Somalia. That has let us do far more to advise, assist, and train the forces taking the fight to al-Shabaab. And under President Hassan Sheikh, Somalia has made important strides toward retaking its territory and disrupting the group's vicious attacks. We're also deepening our counterterrorism cooperation with Kenya, Morocco, Tunisia, Djibouti, and many others. And the United States is helping our friends in Africa build stronger institutions to tackle the long-term forces that breed extremism. But we also take a broader view of security. You know, it's always easier to stamp out an ember than it is to put out a blaze. So we're doubling down on conflict preventionespecially through the U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability. We're working with seven African partners to find creative ways to prevent conflict before it starts, and to invest in locally led solutions to buttress lasting peace. One of our key partners here is Mozambique, whose president I just hosted at the Pentagon last week. Four years ago, the Maputo Peace Accords sought to end a years-long surge in violence. And since then, nearly all former combatants have been demobilized, and Mozambique is working to get former fighters integrated into promising new lives. That work is far from finished. But it is an inspiring example of how a country can move from a fragile ceasefire toward lasting stability. Now, an important part of our peace-and-security work is bringing more women to the table. Women and girls often suffer disproportionately from war and conflict. But when women get to lead, when they can participate, and participate fully as negotiators and peacebuilders, the chances of a just and lasting peace go way up. [Applause] And so that's why Angola hosted an important conference on women, peace, and security in March. Now, we're also working more closely with our African partners on several emerging threats. Like the rest of the world, life in African countries is increasingly online. So we've been working together to deepen cyber security for our friendsas well as expanding cyber information-sharing to help African countries fight the digital malice of outside misinformation and disinformation. We're also cooperating more closely in space. Last year, at the first U.S.-Africa Space Forum, we committed to working together on the peaceful use and exploration of outer space. And I am delighted that Nigeria and Rwanda recently signed the Artemis Accords, which lay out principles to guide space exploration. And these principles are shared principles. And we look forward to doing much, much more with our African partners in this important domain. We're also brought together by the ongoing battle against infectious disease. So we're redoubling our efforts on pandemic response and medical readiness. You know, COVID-19 has taught the whole world a stark lesson. And that lesson is that a threat to global health anywhere is a threat to security everywhere. So I'm proud that the United States delivered some 200 million COVID vaccines to sub-Saharan Africa, including nearly 11 million to the people of Angola. And during the first months of the COVID pandemic, the Department of Defense provided medical equipment and assistance to our partners here in Angola. And we're very, very proud of that, along with the work we did throughout the rest of Africa. [Applause] AFRICOM also works regularly alongside our African partners to prevent outbreaks, and stand up clinics and field hospitals, and train for future crises. Last year, right here in Angola, your Armed Forces hosted the first medical-readiness exercises ever conducted in this country. And earlier this year in Kenya, U.S. and Kenyan military medical personnel treated Kenyan patients together during a two-day clinic. You know, one of our medics, one young American medic recalled learning from his Kenyan counterpart a vital new technique for caring for expectant mothers. And that's just another example of the expertise that our African partners bring. Now, that takes me to the climate crisis. And this continent has seen firsthand how unpredictable weather, and natural disasters, and other fallout from climate change can produce poverty, instability, and insecurity. So we're working with our African partners to grow your capacity to stand up early warning systems, improve resilience, and strengthen emergency management. And AFRICOM is working with our partner militaries to improve their readiness, preserve land, and protect natural resources. Now, there's a common thread running through these many areas of cooperation. Our work together supports our shared interest in a secure, resilient, and open Africa, governed by laws and rules that allow everyone to prosper. So the United States will never take your partnership for granted. The people of Africa deserve to chart their own sovereign paths. And so we aren't asking African countries to choose any side other than their own. You see, Africa deserves better than outsiders trying to tighten their grip on this continent. And Africa deserves better than autocrats selling cheap guns, pushing mercenary forces like the Wagner Group, or depriving grain from hungry people around the world. As President Biden has said, "The future will belong to those who embrace dignity, and not trample it." So we want our work together to produce lasting security, and not a brittle status quo. And we can all see the damage when leaders turn predatory or institutions grab resources for themselves. For lasting success, African countries need responsive, transparent, and civilian-led institutions that uphold human rights, and defend the rule of law, and work for all of their people. [Applause] And Africa needs civilian leaders who keep faith with their citizens and heed their voices. As President Obama said in Ghana in 2009, "Africa doesn't need strongmen. It needs strong institutions." So the United States is committed to supporting whole-of-government policies that advance peace, security, and democratic governance together. And those elements are inseparable. That's especially important at this momentthis moment of profound challenge for democracy in Africa. Across the continent, we've seen autocrats undermine free and fair elections and block peaceful transitions of power. Now, as some of you may know, and you heard the Ambassador say, I had a brief, 41-year career in a U.S. Army uniform. [Laughter] And every day of those 41 years taught me the importance of civilian control of the military. So let me be blunt. When generals overturn the will of the people and put their own ambitions above the rule of law, security suffersand democracy dies. [Applause] As the Biden administration's strategy for sub-Saharan Africa notes, "Effective, legitimate, and accountable militaries and other security forces are essential to support open, democratic, and resilient societies and to counter destabilizing threats." Or to put it more bluntly: militaries exist to defend their people, not to defy them. And Africa needs militaries that serve their citizensand not the other way around. [Applause] And that will remain a core principle of America's engagement with our African partners. So we will continue to invest in professional, civilian-led militaries. We will work together to deepen the norms against toppling democratic governments. And we will be candid with our partners when their security institutions fall short of those universal standards. You know, this isn't easy. But it is the best and shortest path to lasting peace and prosperity. It is the path that millions of men and women across this continent have freely chosen. And the United States is proud to stand with all those who seek free, open, and democratic governments in Africa. Ladies and gentlemen, I've been deeply, deeply moved by the hospitality, the leadership, and the idealism that I've witnessed this week. And I'm also moved to be here today at a site that enshrines Angola's pastboth the glory and the grief. You know, it is very American to believe that hope can be stronger than history. But it's also very African. We all know that the United States and Angola were first connected by the slave trade. And four centuries ago, slavers from far away put the men, and women, and children of this country into shacklespeople who looked just like you and me. The horrors of slavery will always be a part of the shared history of our two countries. And we must never forget them. And today, our countries are joined in very different waysand by our shared dream of a bright future that can help to heal the agony of the past. Today, the ocean that once carried desperate and enslaved people from Angola to America has become a basin of peaceful cooperation. And last year, the United States and Angola were two of the 18 countries that signed the Joint Statement on Atlantic Cooperation, declaring our shared commitment to a vast region of law, conservation, and peace. We know that the walk to freedom can be long. And no one gets it right all of the time. You know, I love my country so much that I fought for it. But America isn't trying to cover up our imperfections. And when a democracy falls short, when it falls short of its best traditions, as we all sometimes do, the whole world gets to see it. But that's not the point. The genius of a democracy is not that it is perfect. The genius of a democracy is that it can always open up space to let its citizens strive to live the universal values of freedom, self-government, and human rights. And the genius of a democracy is that it is always a work in progress. And that's personal for me. I am a child of America's segregated South. I grew up in a time of legalized racist segregation in America. And I stand here today in Africa as America's first Black Secretary of Defense. [Applause] So I believe with all my soul in the progress that we can make together. I've seen institutions move from discrimination to democracy. I've seen leaders learn powerful lessons from the tragic past. And I've seen democracy become a mighty engine for its own renewal. Now, my story is not your story. And my country's journey is not your country's journey. But I believe to my core that our dreams are shared and our futures are linked. In 1966, one of my heroes, Robert F. Kennedy, traveled to Cape Town, some 2,000 miles south of here. And he said, "Nations, like men, often march to the beat of different drummers... and the precise solutions of the United States can neither be dictated nor transplanted to others. What is important is that all nations must march toward increasing freedom; toward justice for all; toward a society strong and flexible enough to meet the demands of all of its people, whatever their race, and the demands of a world of immense and dizzying change that face us all." Now, ever since Senator Kennedy spoke those words, the "immense and dizzying change" that he described has only sped up. And there is one clear way to confront that changeand that is together. So in the years ahead, let us stand together as equal partners. Let us work together on the great security challenges of our times. And let us march together toward increasing freedom and justice for all. Thank you very much. And many, many thanks for your tremendous hospitality. [Standing ovation] https://www.defense.gov/News/Speeches/Speech/Article/3539479/ NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address September 27, 2023 Release Department of Defense Statement on Saudi Arabia/Yemen Border Violence Attributed to Pentagon Press Secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder: "The Department of Defense strongly condemns the attack on September 25th reportedly carried out by Houthi elements on the Saudi-Yemeni border that killed Bahraini service members and injured others. Such unacceptable attacks threaten the longest period of calm since the war in Yemen began. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the people of Bahrain, to our partners in the Bahrain Defense Force, and to the Government of Bahrain." https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3539333/ NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address September 27, 2023 By Jim Garamone , DOD News Austin Pledges Aid to African Partners "Africa matters" was the message that Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III delivered during a speech in Luanda, Angola, this morning. Austin pledged that the U.S. military will continue to work with African allies and partners to ensure "that Africa enjoys all the protections of the international rules and norms that advance security and prosperity." I am a child of America's segregated South. I grew up in a time of legalized racist segregation in America. And I stand here in Africa as America's first Black secretary of defense. I believe with all my soul in the progress that we can make together." Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III The United States, unlike other nations, sees African nations as partners in building security, stability and freedom. This was Austin's first visit to the continent as defense secretary. He visited Djibouti and Kenya before becoming the first defense secretary to visit Angola. Africa is a diverse continent with more than 50 nations, hundreds of languages and a melange of cultures. "The Biden administration believes that the future is being written today in Africa," the secretary said. "And we want to move forward together, through growing partnerships rooted in mutual cooperation and mutual respect. "I am here because Africa matters," he continued. "It matters profoundly to the shape of the 21st-century world. And it matters for our common prosperity and our shared security." That there are problems on the continent is no secret. African nations face many of the 21st century's most urgent shared threats, including pandemics, food insecurity, the climate crisis, terrorism, the plundering of resources and the return of autocracy, Austin said. Still, there are reasons to hope, and Austin said U.S. Africa Command - the combatant command charged with working with partners on the continent - is positioned to provide aid, he said. The U.S. strategy on the continent is based on real conversations with African partners. "When we all have a seat at the table, when we work as equals toward shared goals, when we listen and not just lecture, when we invest in our common security then we have the building blocks for a partnership of principle and progress," the secretary said. Frank talk is key to progress on the continent. There are challenges in security, counterterrorism and other 21st century dangers. "Now, our military cooperation with our African partners today is far stronger than it was just a few years ago," Austin said. We're working to deepen defense relationships that are rooted in equality and mutual respect. We're joining hands with new partners and building new coalitions to oppose aggression and uphold sovereignty." Africom is working with partners to apply African solutions to local, national and regional problems. "These threats include violent extremism, piracy, cyber vulnerabilities and climate disasters all too often made worse by weak governance, predatory institutions and persistent poverty," the secretary said. "We're determined to work with our valued African partners to develop the capabilities that they need to keep their people safe." The support includes professional military education, military capacity-building, counterterrorism, logistics and more. "Many of our partnerships including with Angola focus on our expanding cooperation on maritime security," Austin said. "African coastal nations must be able to tackle threats at sea, from trafficking and piracy to illegal and unregulated fishing. We're working with our partners to block illicit activity, to deepen interoperability at sea, to protect local fisheries and to keep the commercial shipping lanes free for everyone." Terror groups are also a challenge and groups like al-Shabab in Somalia and the various Islamic State affiliates target civilians and wreak havoc on communities across the continent. "Their cruelty propels waves of suffering and instability that spill across borders," he said. "African security forces must be able to combat these groups, defend their sovereignty to protect their people. That's a key focus for Africom." Austin cited the re-established U.S. persistent military presence in Somalia as a move in the right direction. The group "has let us do far more to advise, assist and train the forces taking the fight to al-Shabab," he said. "Under [Somali] President Hassan Sheikh, Somalia has made important strides towards retaking its territory and disrupting the group's vicious attacks." Across the continent, the United States is deepening counterterrorism cooperation. "The United States is helping our friends in Africa build stronger institutions to tackle the long-term forces that breed extremism," he said. Another important aspect is bringing African women into the security and stability process. "Women and girls often suffer disproportionately from war and conflict," Austin said. "But when women get to lead, when they can participate, and participate fully as negotiators and peacebuilders, the chances of a just and lasting peace go way up." Austin assured the audience that the United States is not looking to force African nations to do anything they feel is anathema to their nations, their cultures or their people. "The United States will never take your partnership for granted," he said. "The people of Africa deserve to chart their own sovereign paths. And we aren't asking African countries to choose any side other than their own. Africa deserves better than outsiders trying to tighten their grip on this continent. Africa deserves better than autocrats selling cheap guns, pushing mercenary forces like the Wagner Group, or depriving grain from hungry people around the world." The United States wants to work toward long-term stability and freedom. "We want our work together to produce lasting security, and not a brittle status quo," he said. "And we can all see the damage when leaders turn predatory, or institutions grab resources for themselves." Local leadership dedicated to democracy is key to progress. "For lasting success, African countries need responsive, transparent and civilian-led institutions that uphold human rights, defend the rule of law and work for all of the people," the secretary said. "Africa needs civilian leaders who keep faith with their citizens and heed their voices." African military leaders must understand that "militaries exist to defend their people, and not to defy them," Austin said. "Africa needs militaries that serve their citizens and not the other way around." This is key to America's engagement with African partners. "We will continue to invest in professional, civilian-led militaries," he said. "We will work together to deepen the norms against toppling democratic governments. And we'll be candid with our partners when their security institutions fall short of those universal standards. The United States is committed to supporting whole-of-government policies that advance peace, security, and democratic governance together. And those elements are inseparable." He noted that across the continent, autocrats have undermined free and fair elections and are blocking peaceful transitions of power. "I had a brief, 41-year career in a U.S. Army uniform, and every day of those 41 years taught me the importance of civilian control of the military," he said. "So let me be blunt. When generals overturn the will of the people and put their own ambitions above the rule of law, security suffers and democracy dies." Austin noted that Angola's first contact with America was as a result of the slave trade. "Today, the ocean that once carried desperate, enslaved people from Angola to America has become a basin of peaceful cooperation," he said. "We know that the walk to freedom can be long. And no one gets it right all the time." Democracy is not perfect and when a democracy fails, the whole world sees it, Austin said. "The genius of a democracy is not that it is perfect," he said. "The genius of a democracy is that it can always open up space to let its citizens strive to live the universal values of freedom, self-government and human rights. And the genius of a democracy is that it is always a work in progress." This is personal for Austin. "I am a child of America's segregated South," he said. "I grew up in a time of legalized racist segregation in America. And I stand here in Africa as America's first Black secretary of defense. I believe with all my soul in the progress that we can make together." "I've seen institutions move from discrimination to democracy," he continued. "I've seen leaders learn powerful lessons from the tragic past. And I've seen democracy become a mighty engine for its own renewal. My story is not your story. And my country's journey is not your country's journey. But I believe to my core that our dreams are shared, and our futures are linked." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address September 27, 2023 By David Vergun , DOD News Defense Official Says Shutdown Worse Than Continuing Resolution Congress has until the end of this week to fund the federal government or agree on a continuing resolution to keep the government funded. Absent either of those actions, the government will shut down starting Oct. 1. A CR would be "bad," but a shutdown would be "horrible," said William A. LaPlante, undersecretary of defense for acquisition and sustainment. LaPlante spoke at the Center for Strategic and International Studies' International Security Program. "If the government shuts down, testing [of systems] will stop and acceptance by the government of equipment when it is finished and ready to be accepted [could] stop," he said. For example, in 2013, during the government shutdown, factory workers were sent home. Production lines on things like munitions and the F-35 Lightning II stealth multirole combat aircraft stopped. Next week, the Defense Department has some testing to do for an item it has earmarked for Ukraine, he said. "Unless we can get some type of a waiver, it's not going to happen," he said. Also, people are not going to be able to travel to work on acquisition and sustainment projects, "so, it's just extremely disruptive," he said. "The message it sends to the government workforce is, we're sending people home, our engineers, our acquisition professionals, our sustainers our contracting officers, we're just sending them home and saying you're not essential," LaPlante said. The other option is for Congress to pass a continuing resolution. CRs maintain the previously appropriated year's level of funding for federal programs for a specified period of time. In the case of a CR, any increases in production are not going to happen without a special waiver, he said. In past CRs, this negatively impacted production of Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems and Patriot surface-to-air missile systems, he said. Both of those systems have been sent to Ukraine. LaPlante noted that China, which is the department's pacing challenge, never has continuing resolutions or government shutdowns. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pevkur on Estonias Defence Budget: We must contribute more of our common wealth to defence Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Defence 27. September 2023 In 2024, Estonias defence budget will exceed three per cent of GDP for the first time, including an additional EUR 350 million being directed by the new state budget strategy toward ammunition stocks, meaning that Estonia will be purchasing EUR 1.35 billion worth of ammunition in the coming years. "National defence is one of the focuses of the 2024 state budget. As a small country, we have to make a daily effort to maintain our independence. To this end, it is necessary to proactively develop Estonia's independent defence capabilities as well as our readiness to defend Estonia together with our NATO Allies," Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur said. Total defence spending in 2024-2027 will be around EUR 5.6 billion, implying a projected share of GDP of 3.03-3.21 percent. "Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine has shown that our neighbour to the east has the political will, popular support and resources to carry out its policy of conquest. The security situation in Europe and in the world will continue to remain the worst it has been for decades, which is why we must take into account the need to invest more of our common wealth in national defence," Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur added. More than 50 per cent of the defence budget is directed towards procurements, i.e. directly on building up defence capabilities, which places Estonia among the leaders in a NATO comparison. "The aim of the Ministry of Defence is that every euro entrusted by the taxpayer should produce the maximum defence capability," said Pevkur. Over a period of four years, new armoured vehicles, additional self-propelled artillery, HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems, loitering munitions and mortars will be procured for Army units. "In addition, we are building a medium-range air defence system, which is the largest defence project in our history and will serve to make Estonia's airspace significantly safer. Our indirect fire capability will also be making a leap forward, and we will be adding anti-ship missiles to our arsenal," Pevkur explained. "Exercise Ussisonad (Parseltongue) is currently underway, with the aim to increase the combat capability of the territorial defence forces, which we will continue to maintain. Over the next four years, the Defence League will receive nearly EUR 300 million, EUR 65 million of which will be for procurements in support of territorial defence," Pevkur added. Around EUR 442 million will be invested in infrastructure in 2024-2027. The most important of these are the ammunition depots and storages, Nursipalu base, the War and Disaster Medicine Centre, NCO School and the national defence building in Tartu, the canteen at Amari Air Base, and the workshop for the armoured personnel carriers of the 2nd Infantry Brigade. "In our four-year development plan, we made painful decisions in the total amount of EUR 34 million and reduced the capacity of the war and disaster medicine centre to be built in Tartu. We will also further optimise site security and fuel and energy costs," said Pevkur, as he introduced the areas where the ministry will be making cuts. "These savings will serve to increase our defence capabilities as, per the agreement, the resulting savings will be channelled back into national defence, which means that we will, first and foremost, be able to buy more ammunition," Pevkur added. The defence budget exceeding three percent means that much of this growth will also boost the Estonian economy as a whole. For example, in 2022, EUR 265.5 million, or 53 per cent of the defence investments and economic expenditures made within the area of government of the Ministry of Defence reached the Estonian economy. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Germany Federal Foreign Office 27.09.2023 - Press release Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock issued the following statement today (27 September) on the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh: Children, women and men must be able to stay in their own homes without fear as well as in peace and dignity. However, thousands are so afraid for their lives that they see no alternative for themselves and their families but to head for Armenia - often only with the bare necessities and in completely overcrowded cars. The numbers are rising by the hour. We are deeply concerned by the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh. No one really knows how people there are faring and what they have to endure. What is needed now is transparency and the eyes and ears of the international community on the ground. Together with our partners, we will do our utmost to send international observers as quickly as possible. Allowing international observers to enter would be a proof of confidence and show that Azerbaijan is serious about its assurances regarding the safety and well-being of the population in Nagorno-Karabakh. Following the blockade over many months, even initial deliveries of supplies through the Lachin corridor have not ended the shortage of almost everything that is needed to live in dignity: food, medicine or sanitary products. It is important that relief goods reach people reliably and consistently, not only in a piecemeal way. I have decided to substantially increase our humanitarian assistance once again and to raise our additional funding for the International Committee of the Red Cross from two to five million euro. Normalization of ties with Israel amounts to accepting occupation of Palestine: Hamas IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Sep 27, 2023 Tehran, IRNA -- A leader of the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has criticized the normalization of ties and reconciliation between certain Arab states and the Zionist regime, underlining that the presence of occupiers in Saudi Arabia means accepting the occupation of Palestinian territories. Hussain Abu Kuik said in an interview with Radio Sawt al-Quds that allowing the Zionist occupiers to visit the Hijaz region amounts to accepting the occupation of the Palestinian land. The normalization of ties with the Zionist regime emboldens the regime to advance its settlement projects, continue the Judaization of Jerusalem al-Quds, and change the identity of the Al-Aqsa Mosque. Haim Katz, the Israeli regime's Minister of Tourism, traveled to the Saudi capital Riyadh on Tuesday as the first official visit by a Zionist minister at the head of a delegation to participate in a meeting on the occasion of World Tourism Day. Earlier, an Israeli radio also reported that Minister of Communications of the Zionist regime Shlomo Karhi is scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia next week. Furthermore, some Zionist media outlets revealed that a health ministry official of the regime held a confidential meeting with a Saudi minister in the kingdom. On September 10, the Zionist media outlets also reported the entry of an Israeli delegation into the kingdom, which is for the first time of its kind. 4208**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Erdogan: Azerbaijan-Nakhchivan corridor can pass through Iran IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Sep 27, 2023 Tehran, IRNA -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has welcomed Iran's proposal regarding the so-called Zangezur corridor connecting Azerbaijan to Armenia, saying the corridor can pass through Iran in the event Armenia does not allow it to pass through its territory. "We are doing our best to open the Zangezur corridor. There are also positive signals from Iran. If Armenia prevents the opening of the Zangezur corridor, it is possible for the corridor to pass through Iran," Erdogan said on Tuesday, a day after his visit to Azerbaijan's autonomous Nakhchivan exclave, the IRNA reported on Wednesday. This is the first time the Turkish president has welcomed Iran's proposal that Azerbaijan can use Iranian territory instead of Armenian soil for its trucks to reach Nakhchivan. In recent months, Azerbaijan has tried to pass its trucks through the Zangezur corridor using the Armenian territory. The creation of this corridor, however, would destroy the common border between Iran and Armenia. Senior Iranian officials have repeatedly stated that they are against any change in the internationally recognized borders. They have also emphasized that Iran is ready to allow Azerbaijani trucks to pass through its territory as before, in a way that would preserve the internationally recognized borders and meet the needs of neighboring countries through good neighborliness. Erdogan also voiced hopes that the corridor would be established with Iran's help, describing it as a blessing for the region. 4354**7129**4261 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NATO Secretary General meets Latvian Prime Minister: welcomes Allies' significant contributions to Ukraine NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation 27 Sep. 2023 NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg welcomed Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina to NATO Headquarters on Wednesday (27 September 2023) to discuss Russia's war against Ukraine and follow up on decisions taken at the recent NATO Summit in Vilnius. Mr Stoltenberg thanked Prime Minister Silina for Latvia's contributions to the Alliance, including the country's strong leadership on defence spending, deployments to missions in Kosovo and Iraq, and substantial political and military support provided to Ukraine. Latvia also hosts a Canadian-led battlegroup, strengthening NATO's deterrence and defence on the Alliance's eastern flank. The Secretary General hailed the steady progress made by Ukraine's counteroffensive, in which Ukrainian forces have pressed past Russia's first line of defence and are now inflicting heavy damage on Russia's Black Sea fleet. However, he warned that "we see no sign that Putin's objectives have changed", and reaffirmed that Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine remains the biggest threat to our security in decades. Given this, he welcomed the significant contributions from NATO Allies which are boosting Ukraine's ability to push back the Russian forces, including the arrival of the first American Abrams tanks in Ukraine. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarzs proposed $1.9 billion budget calls for cutting the total taxes collected but making new investments in libraries, law enforcement, tourism and disaster planning. The budget includes increases in spending and, for the first time in 10 years, a reduction in the total amount of property taxes the county collects from taxpayers, thanks to a deal Poloncarz reached with the Erie County Legislature. All of this will be accomplished, Poloncarz said, without dipping into the countys rainy day funds, thanks to increased sales tax revenue and a spike in federal and state aid. Its a balanced budget, it meets the needs of the community and we were able to do it in a manner because of the sales tax growth that allows us to cut the property tax levy, Poloncarz said in a meeting with The Buffalo News Editorial Board. The budget as proposed would remain under the state property tax cap. It includes a 9% spending increase, though Poloncarz, who is running for re-election against Republican Chrissy Casilio, noted that 75% of that figure covers spending for state mandates and sales tax the county shares with municipalities. For the first time in more than two decades, the Erie County Legislature and administration in July struck a deal to cut the tax levy or the total amount of property taxes the county collects from taxpayers by roughly $1 million. In addition, the Legislature and Poloncarz agreed on terms that eliminated all sales taxes on homeowner energy bills during the coldest winter months of December, January and February, when utility bills typically spike. That includes the tax on everything from electricity and natural gas to propane, heating oil, wood and coal. The state already charges no sales tax on electricity and home heating fuels for residential use, but the county had been charging a sales tax of 4.75%. Poloncarzs budget proposal includes 46 additional jobs. He said half of those positions were for the offices of the county clerk, comptroller, district attorney and sheriff. Among the major highlights in the proposed budget: Tax cuts Poloncarz noted the proposed tax rate of $3.38 per thousand dollars of assessed property down from the current $3.93 rate would be the lowest of all Western New York counties. This is the lowest rate ever and is based on sound budgeting, Poloncarz wrote in his budget presentation. The cuts were part of a larger package negotiated with the Poloncarz administration in exchange for bipartisan Legislature support to extend the temporary 1% sales tax that the county has had in place since the red-and-green budget crisis in the mid-2000s that dropped the countys credit rating to near junk-bond status. The Legislatures Republican caucus had threatened to withhold support of the 1% sales tax extension, which is responsible for raising hundreds of millions of dollars that are critical for the functioning of county government. That led to weeks of negotiations earlier this year involving Republican and Democratic elected leaders, Legislature staff, budget personnel, representatives from Poloncarzs office, and Poloncarz himself. The last time the county cut the property tax levy was in 2013, but that was due to an unanticipated drop in property tax assessments, which led to the tax levy falling by $455,000 that year. Prior to that, former County Executive Joel Giambra cut total property taxes by $29 million in 2001, then refused to raise taxes for several more years despite rising expenses, resulting in a catastrophic budget crisis that led to the countys additional 1% temporary sales tax increase. Even though Poloncarz is correct in stating that the countys overall property tax rate has fallen to the lowest recorded level in decades, tax bills in some towns could still increase because property taxes are charged by local government and school districts. Poloncarz noted that the county has no control over how those municipalities and school districts budget. Additionally, the countys tax rate of $3.38 is a reference to the full value tax rate, the rate the county would charge property owners across the board, assuming all homes are assessed at what they are really worth. Few properties have assessments that match their true market values, though, because many local governments do not take the politically unpopular step of reassessing their residents properties on a regular basis. Libraries The budget includes $1.4 million in new funding an increase of 4.9% over last year for county libraries. Poloncarz noted that he did not reduce library funding despite the tax levy cut, instead taking the funds from other parts of the budget. The librarys benefiting from additional property tax revenue than they would have normally, and the countys actually taking it on the chin a little bit to make up for the additional money thats going to the library, Poloncarz said. Law enforcement The Erie County Sheriffs Office will get a 20% increase in funding compared to last years budget, including pay raises and 12 new positions. Those positions include a new community engagement team, public information and Freedom of Information Law officers, special victims and white-collar fraud detectives and a $1 million deposit for a new helicopter that was requested by Sheriff John Garcia. Tourism A total of $10.2 million in hotel occupancy tax funds will be reinvested into tourism promotion through Visit Buffalo Niagara, the county executive said. Nearly $3 million will go to service debt on repairs at regional jewels like the Darwin Martin House, Sheas Performing Arts Center and Kleinhans Music Hall. The Buffalo Convention Center will get $2.2 million in operating aid and a one-time allocation of $350,000. Poloncarz said renovations at the convention center have it looking bright and new but he lamented the poor state of the former Adams Mark hotel, which is costing the city even more convention business, he said. Disaster planning Poloncarz budgeted $440,000 toward a climate action fund that would keep the county in line with the Paris Climate Accords. That is separate from an additional $500,000 for a new Community Climate Resiliency Fund. In addition, a new emergency services planner position will be created for pre-disaster plan management and post-disaster recovery coordination, Poloncarz said. That position will include more long-range planning work than done by the current director of emergency services. Capital projects Poloncarz announced nearly $100 million in capital investment for 2024, including $17 million for SUNY Erie Community College and its North Campus Sports Complex. A total of $5.5 million will be budgeted for community projects like the Heal International Economic Empowerment Center and $3.5 million for parks improvements, including inclusive playgrounds. NATO Deputy Secretary General meets Colombian Defence Minister NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation 27 Sep. 2023 On Wednesday (27 September 2023), NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoana met Colombian Defence Minister Ivan Velasquez Gomez at the NATO Headquarters. The Deputy Secretary General underlined the importance of NATO's partnership with Colombia and the unique perspective that Colombia brings as NATO's partner in Latin America. Mr Geoana and Mr Velasquez discussed common security challenges and areas for cooperation under the new NATO-Colombia partnership programme agreed in December 2021. The impact of climate change on security, maritime security, demining, military interoperability, and defence education are among the priorities for enhanced cooperation between NATO and Colombia. Mr Geoana also commended Colombia for its work on building integrity and for its strong commitment to deepen its cooperation with NATO on the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda. Colombia became a NATO partner in 2017, the first in Latin America. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address A look at the Defence news 18 - 24 September 2023 Netherlands Ministry of Defence News item | 27-09-2023 Over the coming months, the Netherlands, Denmark and the Czech Republic will provide Ukraine with weapons, vehicles, tanks, air defence equipment and ammunition. The equipment will be provided by the Czech arms industry. The defence ministers of the three countries announced this in a joint statement during a meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group in the German town of Ramstein last week. Royal Netherlands Navy intercepts almost a tonne of cocaine in Caribbean HNLMS Groningen intercepted almost 1,000 kilos of cocaine in two drug hauls. These operations were conducted on 11 and 12 September but only announced last week. During the first haul, the suspects only surrendered after warning shots had been fired. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hamas: Israel's acts of terror will not demoralize Palestinian nation Iran Press TV Wednesday, 27 September 2023 10:31 AM The Palestinian Hamas resistance movement has denounced the latest Israeli airstrikes against its positions in the besieged Gaza Strip, stressing that the Palestinian nation will resolutely continue their struggle against the occupying regime. Hamas spokesman Abdul Latif al-Qanoua said on Wednesday that the Israeli military's repeated aerial raids on the position of resistance fighters in Gaza, closure of the Beit Hanoun Crossing, also known as the Erez Crossing, and the ongoing cruel siege of Gaza are all part of a desperate attempt to pressure Palestinians into abandoning the al-Aqsa Mosque. "However, they (Israeli authorities) will not succeed in their bids," Qanoua noted. "Our nation will continue its legitimate struggle in all spheres and through all available means. The occupiers' acts of terror, bombings and siege will neither undermine our determination nor will put down the revolution in defense of our sanctities," he said. On Tuesday, Israeli airstrikes hit several targets in the Gaza Strip, after Palestinian protesters flocked for the 12th straight day to the border fence between the besieged sliver and the 1948 Israeli-occupied territories to denounce the Israeli settler incursions into the al-Aqsa Mosque complex in East al-Quds. There were no reports of casualties in Gaza from the Israeli airstrikes, but Palestinian health officials reported that Israeli forces shot and wounded 11 protesters during Tuesday's protest along the border. The Israeli army said that it used a drone, helicopter and tank to strike multiple posts in northern and southern Gaza belonging to Hamas. Muslim groups and authorities have warned against Israeli attempts to divide the holy compound between Muslims and Jews in total disregard for the feelings of millions of Muslims worldwide. Israeli settler incursions into the al-Aqsa Mosque compound and violence against Palestinians have been on the rise since the hardline cabinet of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took office last December. Such mass settler break-ins almost always take place at the behest of Tel Aviv-backed temple groups and under the auspices of the Israeli police in al-Quds, leading to daily confrontations with Palestinians at the mosque, with many injured, arrested, and killed. Non-Muslim worship at the compound is prohibited according to an agreement between Israel and Jordan following the regime's seizure of East al-Quds in 1967. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Houthi: Yemen will use all legal means to end Saudi-led war if peace talks fail Iran Press TV Wednesday, 27 September 2023 7:12 AM The leader of Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement says the Sana'a-based National Salvation Government will employ all available legal means to end the Saudi-led aggression and occupation of the Arab country in case the ongoing talks in Riyadh fail to bear any fruit. "We will continue our efforts to put an end to the aggression, siege and occupation [of Yemen] through all legitimate means. If the negotiations do not succeed, our people reserve the right to employ all available resources to end the various forms of onslaught against Yemen," Abdul-Malik al-Houthi said in a televised speech broadcast live late on Tuesday. He stated that Muslims are facing the grave danger of getting under the complete sway of the enemies of Islam. It is, therefore, necessary for Muslims to attach firmly to the Holy Qur'an and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Houthi added, "The Zionist lobby, spearheaded by the United States and the Israeli regime, together with certain European countries and their vassal states, are trying to influence Muslims." He noted that the enemies are manipulating the teachings and educational materials of Arab and Muslim countries, pointing to Saudi Arabia as one of the states that have removed verses of the Holy Qur'an from school textbooks in order to delight Zionists. The Ansarullah chief further argued that the main goal of the ongoing soft war is to dominate all aspects of the Muslim world, making it absolutely necessary for the Islamic Ummah to converge in order to restore its leading role in the world. "The Islamic Ummah can regain its freedom and dignity through stronger attachment to the Holy Qur'an and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and liberating itself from any kind of dependency," Houthi said. The Ansarullah leader went on to highlight the financial woes of the Yemeni people, stating that Sana'a is determined to implement radical changes and fundamental reforms in this regard. Radical change must be accompanied by a popular process to change the current situation, Houthi said, adding that such a change requires all-out efforts of everyone. He underscored that Yemeni armed forces have gained such a high level of defense power that it surprises the enemies, even though the latter possesses sophisticated air missile systems. Yemeni military units can now strike strategic targets deep inside Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. "Enemies want to spread a sense of alienation among the Yemeni nation, and steal their identity as they attempt to bring the people under their control," Houthi said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UAE seeking to obstruct Saudi-Yemen peace talks: Report Iran Press TV Wednesday, 27 September 2023 6:35 AM The United Arab Emirates has been trying to hinder the negotiations between Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement and Saudi Arabia aimed at bringing an end to the Riyadh-led coalition's war on the Arab world's poorest nation. Citing informed sources in the Sana'a government, the Lebanese al-Akhbar daily reported on Tuesday that Abu Dhabi wants to create an impediment to the peace talks because a cessation of hostilities would end its role in southern Yemen. "The UAE is desperate to obstruct the peace process through its repeated attempts ... to participate in the negotiations taking place between Sana'a and Riyadh, which achieved great progress last week," the report said. It was pointing to the Saudi-Yemen peace talks that excluded the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a UAE-backed militant group that wants the south to separate from the rest of Yemen. Ansarullah will only negotiate with "the leader of the coalition," the report added, in reference to Saudi Arabia and not the UAE. "Sana'a is expecting Abu Dhabi to push the militia parties loyal to it to obstruct any peace agreement, because peace would strip it of any role in southern Yemen, and would not guarantee its survival in the Yemeni ports, airports, and islands, especially Socotra Island," it said. In March 2015, Saudi Arabia and the UAE launched the war on Yemen to restore power to the impoverished country's Western- and Riyadh-allied government. Since 2019, the pair have pursued contrasting policies, with the UAE withdrawing troops, seeking footholds in the south and acting as the STC's patron. Also in its report, al-Akhbar said that the STC is trying to reach out to Sana'a for talks, despite previously denouncing the talks, with STC head Major General Aidarous al-Zubaidi and his colleagues expressing their keenness to engage in dialogue with Sana'a. Meanwhile, Madram Abu Siraj, a southern separatist leader, said that Zubaidi is "only maneuvering" as he "lacks decision-making power" and only does "what is dictated to him" by the UAE. Saudi Arabia and Yemen have both hailed progress in their recent peace talks. Ansarallah officials say Riyadh has agreed to all of Yemen's terms, which specifically include the withdrawal of British, Emirati, and US troops from the country. Sana'a will not allow any foreign forces to remain on Yemeni territory under a potential agreement with Saudi Arabia, al-Akhbar reported. The former Yemeni government's president, Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi, resigned from the presidency in late 2014 and later fled to Riyadh amid a political conflict with Ansarullah. The movement has been running Yemen's affairs ever since. The war and a concomitant siege that the Saudi-led coalition has been imposing on Yemen has have claimed the lives of tens of thousands of Yemenis and turned the entire country into the site of what the United Nations has described as the world's worst humanitarian crisis. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Philippines to craft more assertive strategy for sea territories The military's efforts would include strengthening naval presence in Manila-claimed South China Sea waters. By BenarNews staff 2023.09.27 -- The Philippines is in the process of crafting a more assertive strategy for waters it claims in the disputed South China Sea, a Navy commander said on Wednesday. Philippine Western Command chief Vice Adm. Alberto Carlos comment came days after Manila accused China Coast Guard ships of installing a floating barrier - removed later by the Philippines - at the sea's disputed Scarborough Shoal, which China on Monday reiterated was its territory. Manila, which also claims the shoal, was in the midst of forming "a national strategy" with a "stronger assertion of rights in the sea," Carlos said, referring to waters within the Philippines' jurisdiction. Carlos' command is in Palawan, the country's western frontier facing the West Philippine Sea - Manila's name for the South China Sea within its exclusive economic zone. "For the military alone, our line of efforts include the effective occupation of the islands that we already occupied and also establishing a stronger naval presence in our area," he said. The strategy would allow the military to "know what is happening in our area, precisely where they are, where are all the vessels of interest, the militia vessels, the Chinese Coast Guard," Carlos said. A United Nations tribunal in 2016 dismissed China's sweeping claims over most of the South China Sea, including Scarborough Shoal, but Beijing has refused to recognize the ruling. Instead of seeking to enforce the ruling, then-President Rodrigo Duterte sought to ingratiate himself with China in exchange for pledges of investments. In contrast, his successor as president, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has been firm on the Philippines' position and has sought stronger defense alliances with the United States and other western countries including Australia and Britain. China reacts In Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin on Wednesday maintained his nation's hardline stance on the shoal. "What the Philippines did looks like nothing more than self-amusement," he told reporters. "China will continue to safeguard our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests over Huangyan Dao," he said, using the Chinese name for Scarborough Shoal. Carlos rejected the Chinese stance on the barrier at the shoal, which the Philippines calls Bajo de Masinloc. "We are not stirring [up] any trouble. We are just asserting our rights in the area," he said. "Our duty is to defend and protect our sovereignty and sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea. We are just doing our job, we are doing our job as far as asserting our jurisdiction over our exclusive economic zone." China has disputes with the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan over the South China Sea and has become more aggressive in the region. In addition to the floating barrier, Chinese ships have harassed military resupply missions to troops on the Philippine-occupied Ayungin Shoal in recent months. The troops are stationed on a World War II-era ship, the BRP Sierra Madre, that was grounded at the shoal in 1999 to serve as a military outpost. The China Coast Guard has fired water cannons and taken steps to harass Philippine Coast Guard ships escorting missions to the BRP Sierra Madre. The Philippine Western Command chief said Marcos' directive was to ensure that BRP Sierra Madre remains where it is and "strong enough to be able to fly the Philippine flag." "We intend to comply with that order," Carlos said. More training Meanwhile, the Philippines and the United States navies are set to launch joint exercises in the South China Sea next month, said Lt. Col. Enrico Gil Ileto, military public affairs chief. More than 600 U.S. Navy personnel are expected to attend the 12-day drills dubbed Sama-Sama. Representatives from Britain, France, Indonesia, Japan and New Zealand are scheduled to attend as observers. Ileto said the annual exercise "aims to further strengthen international defense cooperation and advance a rules-based international order." He said the Philippine Navy's guided missile frigate BRP Antonio Luna will be joined by the USS Dewey, a guided missile destroyer, and the USNS Wally Schirra cargo ship. The exercises are part of the Mutual Defense Treaty signed in 1951, which calls on both countries to aid each other in times of aggression by an external power. Jeoffrey Maitem and Jojo Rinoza in Manila contributed to this report. BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated news service. This story has been updated to clarify the comments from the Chinese foreign ministry spokesman. 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 Huawei's role in Indonesia raises 'digital colonization' concerns Tech company's interaction is part of China's broader Belt and Road investment and infrastructure program Ahmad Syamsudin for BenarNews and Chen Mei Hua for RFA Mandarin 2023.09.27 -- BRI-logo-black-background-250.jpgLush green hills and a majestic lake surround a private university here that is training tomorrow's elite Indonesian digital workers with help from a Chinese technological powerhouse reviled by the U.S. government. The Del Institute of Technology, or IT Del, founded by a key aide to Indonesia's president, has been collaborating since 2013 with Huawei, China's leading tech company. Through the partnership, faculty members and students have access to cutting-edge training, certification and research opportunities in fields such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence and cyber security. "It's a win-win situation for Huawei and us," Humasak Simanjuntak, IT Del's deputy president, told BenarNews, a news network affiliated with Radio Free Asia. "One of the ways they achieve success is by supporting education in Indonesia." Indonesia has welcomed Chinese investment to develop its digital ecosystem. IT Del was founded by Luhut Pandjaitan, Indonesia's coordinating minister for investment and maritime affairs, and its top official coordinating cooperation with China. Huawei's interaction with Indonesia is part of China's broader strategy of expanding its economic and political influence across Asia and beyond through its Belt and Road Initiative - a global infrastructure, technology and investment program launched by Chinese President Xi Jinping 10 years ago. That includes developing digital systems, which Jakarta views as key to future prosperity. Indonesia's internet economy is projected to reach US$124 billion by 2025, according to a 2020 report by Google, Temasek, and Bain & Company. But Huawei's dominance has raised alarm among some experts here amid warnings from the U.S. and other Western countries that the Chinese firm engages in espionage and sabotage activities, which it denies. Ardi Sutedja, chairman of the Indonesia Cybersecurity Forum and a former government consultant, said Huawei is deeply embedded in the national telecommunications infrastructure, from the core network to the end-user devices. "It's going to be so difficult for us to transition to another company because from upstream to downstream, our 3G and 4G infrastructure is already being managed by Huawei," he told RFA. 'Technology can colonize them' Huawei has been providing its products and services to Indonesia since 2000. It has established partnerships with more than 100 local companies and more than 30 universities, and created more than 20,000 jobs directly and indirectly, according to the company's website. It also has an agreement on cybersecurity cooperation with Indonesia's National Cyber and Crypto Agency, or BSSN. Ardi warned of the potential dangers of Indonesia relying on one foreign company, especially for cybersecurity. He noted that people "enjoy the wave of new technology without realizing that technology can also colonize them." Alfons Tanujaya, another cybersecurity expert, said Indonesia needs to be careful about allowing outsiders' controlling its networks -- "not only China but also the United States." "When we talk about spying, without 5G we can already be spied on," he said. "All our hardware is from China, we use modems, CCTV cameras, and everything from China." The United States has voiced increasing concern over Huawei. It has banned Huawei from its 5G networks and put pressure on its allies to do the same. In 2020, Robert O'Brien, then the U.S. national security adviser, said the United States had evidence that Huawei could "access sensitive and personal information" in the systems it maintains around the world. He contended that Huawei is influenced by the Chinese government and must comply with directives of the Chinese Communist Party. Huawei has repeatedly denied these allegations, saying it is an independent company and that no government has ever asked it to compromise its products or customers' data. Provider of choice Huawei devices and networks are ubiquitous in Southeast Asia. Last year, researchers at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, a think tank in Washington, said that Huawei "has positioned itself as Indonesia's cybersecurity provider of choice" through its vast cybersecurity and other training programs for groups ranging from senior government officials to rural students. Luhut, the minister who leads Jakarta's cooperation with Beijing, summed up the approach in 2021 - under which China provides hardware and training, and Indonesians install, maintain and use the networks. "Why do I get along with China? China is very generous in sharing its technology with us," he said then. "They have always been willing to give us whatever we ask for. This helps us to keep up with technological advancements." Some Western tech companies, such as Ericsson, Nokia and Google, also cooperate with the Indonesian government and its educational institutions, but not as extensively as with Huawei, according to experts. They said Huawei had dominated Indonesia's telecommunications infrastructure by offering low prices, credit from Chinese banks, and training for locals. Huawei equipment is mainly used in the Palapa Ring project, a 35,000-kilometer (22,000-mile) national fiber-optic network that covers more than 500 regions and cities in the Indonesian archipelago, the first phase of which was carried out by Huawei Marine. "We welcome Huawei's support for developing digital talents in Indonesia and around the world," said Wayan Toni Supriyanto, the director general of international cooperation at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. Hurdles for Huawei With an average rate of 4 U.S. cents per gigabyte, Indonesia has some of the lowest cellular data costs in the Asia-Pacific, according to the Indonesian Telematics Society, a forum for stakeholders in the Indonesian digital industry. The Indonesian Internet Service Providers Association says internet penetration in Indonesia has reached 78%, or 215.6 million users -- although there is still a significant gap between urban and rural areas. The government said around 7,000 small and remote villages are still underserved by internet providers. Against this backdrop, Huawei still faces headwinds in building its business. It confronts legal challenges in several countries over its alleged theft of trade secrets, violations of U.S. sanctions against Iran, fraud, racketeering and patent infringement. Huawei has denied or contested these charges as well. It faces restrictions or bans on its equipment or services in the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and the United Kingdom. These moves have hampered Huawei's global expansion and market share, especially in the 5G sector. Huawei has also faced supply-chain disruptions due to the U.S. sanctions that prevent it from accessing key components and technologies from American suppliers. This has affected its ability to produce and sell its products, such as smartphones and network equipment. Huawei has sought to develop its own alternatives, such as its HarmonyOS operating system and its HiSilicon chips. It has also been seeking new markets and partners in other regions, such as in Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. Huawei has also been lobbying and suing to defend its rights and reputation, as well as engaging in P.R. campaigns to win over public opinion and trust. Career boost Among tech-savvy Indonesians, the cachet of Huawei appears high. Muhammad Ihsan Fawzi, a lecturer at South Tangerang Institute of Technology near Jakarta, said he had received several job offers and speaking invitations after obtaining a Huawei certification for mobile development. He learned how to create applications for Huawei devices and platforms, and to include features such as location, analytics, push notifications, in-app purchases, and cloud functions. "After I received the certification and published it on my LinkedIn, several companies contacted me and offered me a job position as a mobile developer or a project manager," he said. He didn't take up those offers as he did not want to leave his present job. Istas Manalu, a lecturer from IT Del who participated in a summer camp organized by Huawei in China in June, said the camp offered leadership sessions and further training in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and IT governance. He said it was an opportunity for both lecturers and students "to familiarize ourselves with the development of 5G technology, cyber security, cloud computing, and AI, as they have a strong base in those areas." Onno W. Purbo, a computer engineering lecturer and a proponent of open-source tech, warned however that digital colonization by China was now a reality in Indonesia. "We are really dependent on them because we don't have the capacity," said Purbo, a deputy rector at the South Tangerang Institute of Technology. But he likened it to Indonesia being "colonized" by Japan through the domination of Japanese car and motorcycle brands. Simanjuntak of IT Del, however, dismissed concerns about Huawei. He said that his institution's partnership with the company was purely technical and practical. He noted that his institution also collaborates with Western companies, including Cisco and Google. "We are not discriminating against specific companies, but it's free competition, let it be free. When we partner with someone, there should be mutual benefits," he said. BenarNews and Radio Free Asia collaborated on this special report. 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 Solomons Prime Minister tells US not to lecture Pacific leaders Sogavare stayed away from a U.S.-Pacific island leaders summit in Washington earlier this week. Charley Piringi for BenarNews 2023.09.27 -- The Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, who declined to attend a United States-Pacific islands summit earlier this week, said Washington should show respect to the region's leaders rather than lecturing them. The summit in Washington, the second in a year between President Joe Biden and leaders of Pacific island nations, was part of U.S. efforts to counter China's inroads in the region that include a burgeoning relationship with the Solomon Islands. "They must respect Pacific leaders and change their strategies of meeting with Pacific leaders," Sogavare said Wednesday after returning to the Solomon Islands from New York, where he spoke last week at the annual United Nations General Assembly. Sogavare, who often echoes Beijing's talking points, said he returned to the Solomon Islands rather than attending the Washington event so he could give attention to pressing domestic issues. The island nation of some 700,000 people was represented at the two day summit, which ended Tuesday, by Foreign Minister Jeremiah Manele and Colin Beck, permanent secretary of the foreign affairs ministry. "At least we have our representatives there. We were always given three minutes to talk and we will be sitting down only to listen to them lecturing us of how good they are," Sogavare told reporters at a press conference at Honiara's international airport. A Biden administration official, who spoke on the condition they weren't named, had said it was disappointing that Sogavare did not attend the summit, Reuters reported. At the summit, Biden called on Congress to approve an additional U.S. $200 million of assistance for Pacific island nations, the latest move in his administration's push to counter Chinese influence in a region crucial to U.S. defense. U.S. interest in Pacific island nations was galvanized in early 2022 after Beijing and the Solomon Islands signed a security pact that the U.S. and allies such as Australia fear could lead to a Chinese military presence in the region. Since then the U.S. has agreed to increase its financial and economic assistance for Federated States of Micronesia, Marshall Islands and Palau - three North Pacific countries that delegate their defense to Washington under longstanding compacts of free association. Subject to budget appropriations, the three nations would receive more than U.S. $7 billion over 20 years. The first Pacific Islands-U.S. summit in September last year announced plans for more than U.S. $800 million in assistance to island nations over a decade. The figure included nearly tripling the payments tied to a tuna fishing treaty with Pacific nations to a total of U.S. $600 million between 2023-33. Sogavare said his Cabinet will meet from Thursday to determine what bills to submit to parliament during the remainder of its sessions this year. "I have a commitment and dedication to tackling domestic matters, especially with approximately 10 weeks remaining in the parliamentary calendar," he said. Under Sogavare, the Solomon Islands switched its diplomatic recognition to China from Taiwan in 2019. His government has capitalized on the U.S.-China rivalry by securing more development assistance for a country that grapples with lack of roads, hospitals and jobs. BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated news service. Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content 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 Exiled Afghan Professors Say No Return Without Women In Universities By Khujasta Kabiri September 27, 2023 When the Taliban seized power, it soon launched a purge of Afghanistan's universities in a bid to promote its radical Islamic values. Now, facing a severe shortage of qualified university teachers, the hard-line Islamist group is trying to convince exiled educators to return to their homeland. The Taliban's education minister, Neda Mohammad Nadim, announced this week that the group had "sent different delegations to various countries so those who are good instructors and are living abroad return." But professors who left when the Taliban seized power over two years ago say there is little to come back to. "Being a professor at a university is not only about income and career, what is important is independence, critical thinking, and freedom of expression," Sami Rasakh, an educator who left Afghanistan for an undisclosed country, told RFE/RL's Radio Azadi. "We do not have these rights under such a government [the Taliban]," Rasakh said, concluding that "professors who went to more advanced countries will not return." Despite the Taliban's recruitment effort, educators remain subject to significant restrictions on what they can teach and to whom. The denial of higher education to girls and women, which forced many women teachers out of their profession or led them to leave the country, is a major sticking point. Obaidullah Wardak, a former mathematics professor at Kabul University, says the Taliban must first provide girls and women the right to attend universities before the group can expect to convince professors to return. "Professors should not be expected to teach like machines," Wardak told Radio Azadi, saying the right to education for all must be protected. "The professors want to see if there are [improvements] in place," said Wardak, who resigned from his position and moved abroad. "As a first step, we demand that the gates of the universities be opened again for girls." The Taliban has fired scores of university professors, particularly women, replacing them with Taliban clerics. Dozens of other professors have resigned from their positions to protest the group's severe restrictions on education. Another hitch in the re-recruitment drive is the Taliban's continuing purge of universities as it tries to impose its hard-line values on all aspects of Afghan life. The Taliban has vowed to root out all forms of the modern, secular education that thrived in Afghanistan after the U.S.-led invasion in 2001 toppled the Taliban's first regime. Since regaining power, the militants have converted scores of secular schools, public universities, and vocational training centers into Islamic seminaries, leading to a surge in the number of madrasahs in the country. Multiple professors told Radio Azadi that the very same Education Ministry that wants them to return to the classroom had ordered the institutions where they taught to replace them with unqualified members of the Taliban government. "On the one hand, it is ordered that I be removed, on the other, I will be invited [to return]?" Noorullah Shad, a former professor of Pashto literature at Kabul's Sheikh Zahid University, told Radio Azadi from abroad. "If a professor returns, what guarantees are there that no one will be imprisoned again, my human rights will be protected, my dignity will be protected? Shad asked. Who Believes Taliban's Promises? Upon seizing power in August 2021, the Taliban gave assurances that it would not return to the infamously brutal rule it employed while first in power from 1996 to 2001. In an effort to reverse the damage from the loss of government bureaucrats, military personnel, doctors, and other professionals, the Taliban called on Afghans to return to their former positions to help rebuild the country. As a carrot, the Taliban pledged to respect girls' and women's right to education and offered amnesty for soldiers and police who worked for the previous Afghan government. But rights groups have recorded scores of cases in which former military and police personnel were targeted and killed, while the global community has expressed outrage at the Taliban's refusal to live up to its promises when it comes to the rights of girls and women. Some university professors, meanwhile, have been imprisoned for criticizing the Taliban's restrictions on girls and women attending university. In December, the Taliban doubled down by barring girls and women from campuses entirely. The end result, according to the United Nations mission to Afghanistan, is that the Taliban has established "the most repressive country in the world regarding women's rights." The Taliban's education minister, Nadim, nevertheless has claimed that some professors have returned to resume teaching in Afghanistan. Rasakh, the exiled university professor, conceded in his interview with Radio Azadi that "professors who are down on their luck in [neighboring] Iran and Pakistan would maybe accept the Taliban's pitch out of necessity." Multiple professors who have returned and spoke to Radio Azadi supported Rasakh's argument, saying they had to come back after experiencing financial problems and difficulties in obtaining legal documents to stay abroad. Written by Michael Scollon based on reporting by Khujasta Kabiri of RFE/RL's Radio Azadi Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/afghanistan-professors- universities-women/32613071.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. Pledges To Work With Partners On Monitoring Mission As Tens Of Thousands Arrive In Armenia By RFE/RL's Armenian Service, RFE/RL's Azerbaijani Service September 27, 2023 The U.S. State Department says it will work with allies and partners on an international monitoring mission after nearly half the population of Nagorno-Karabakh fled following an offensive by Azerbaijan that gave Baku complete control of the breakaway region. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters the United States would work toward establishing a mission as the Armenian government said more than 53,000 people had left Nagorno-Karabakh since September 24. The updated number of refugees accounts for nearly half of the region's population. The exodus began after Azerbaijan opened the only road leading from the breakaway region to Armenia four days after a cease-fire agreement that ended a lightning military operation. Yerevan over the weekend asked the United Nations to send a monitoring mission to assess the human rights and security situation as it attempts to absorb the ethnic Armenians. The foreign ministers of Armenia and Turkey on September 27 held a telephone conversation to discuss the situation, the Armenian Foreign Ministry said. The foreign ministers of Russia and Azerbaijan also spoke by phone to discuss providing humanitarian assistance and ensuring the rights and security of the local Armenian population, the Russian Foreign Ministry said. Meanwhile, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) chief Samantha Power and a top U.S. diplomat arrived in Azerbaijan and met with President Ilham Aliyev. Power was to raise concerns about the humanitarian situation and address the prospects for "a durable and dignified peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia" based on mutual respect for each other's territorial integrity and sovereignty, USAID said in a statement. Aliyev's press service said during the meeting opinions were exchanged about the current situation, which arose as a result of "anti-terrorist measures" implemented in the region. Aliyev noted that talks were under way between representatives of Azerbaijan and ethnic Armenian residents of Nagorno-Karabakh in the direction of reintegration, the press service said. Aliyev also said Baku was ready to organize a visit to the region of a UN liaison office representative accredited in the country in the near future. The U.S. delegation arrived in Azerbaijan after visiting Armenia, where Power said Washington would stand in solidarity with Yerevan. She also announced a $11.5 million humanitarian aid package for Armenia, but said it was essential the international community gain access to Nagorno-Karabakh amid reports of injuries and a lack food and other essentials. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock called on Azerbaijan on September 27 to allow international observers to enter Nagorno-Karabakh and announced that Berlin was stepping up its humanitarian aid for the refugees. "I have decided to significantly increase our humanitarian aid once again and to increase our additional funding for the International Committee of the Red Cross from 2 million to 5 million euros ($5.28 million)," Baerbock said. Earlier on September 27, Azerbaijani authorities announced that they had detained the separatist region's former prime minister, Ruben Vardanian, at a border crossing. Azerbaijan's State Border Service (DSX) said Vardanian, a former Russian citizen of Armenian descent who served as prime minister in the de facto government of the breakaway region for less than four months before being removed from the post in February, was detained at the border and transferred to Baku. His wife, Veronika Zonabend, has confirmed her husband's detention. Officials in the region also were still dealing with the aftermath of a blast that occurred on September 25 as people seeking to flee to Armenia lined up to fuel their cars. The cause of the blast has not been determined. Nagorno-Karabakh's ombudsman, Gegham Stepanian, said the number of confirmed deaths in the explosion is 68 -- far lower than previous reports that had put the number as high as 125. Stepanian told RFE/RL that so far only 21 victims have been identified. Baku said on September 27 that 192 Azerbaijani servicemen and one civilian had been killed during the September 19-20 blitz offensive. Another 511 soldiers were wounded in the course of the operation, Azerbaijan's Health Ministry said in a statement. The European Union also said it would increase humanitarian aid by 5 million euros ($5.2 million) in response to growing needs caused by the crisis. The EU stressed in a statement the need for transparency and access for international humanitarian and human rights groups and for more detail on Baku's vision for Karabakh Armenians' future in Azerbaijan. During the meeting, Hikmet Haciyev, a foreign policy adviser to Aliyev, outlined Azerbaijan's plans to provide humanitarian assistance and security to the local population. The meeting also discussed a possible meeting of Nagorno-Karabakh stakeholders on October 5 in Granada. "The participants took note of the shared interest of Armenia and Azerbaijan to make use of the possible meeting in Granada to continue their normalization efforts," the statement said. Armenian representative Armen Grigorian and Haciyev "engaged in talks on possible concrete steps to advance the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process in the upcoming possible meeting, such as those with regard to border delimitation, security, connectivity, humanitarian issues, and the broader peace treaty," the statement said. The statement added that the EU believes that the meeting should be used by both Yerevan and Baku to reiterate publicly their commitment to each other's territorial integrity and sovereignty in line with previous agreements. Armenia and Azerbaijan have fought two wars in the last three decades over the region, which had been a majority ethnic Armenian enclave within the internationally recognized border of Azerbaijan since the Soviet collapse. The region initially came under the control of ethnic Armenian forces, backed by the Armenian military, in separatist fighting that ended in 1994. During a war in 2020, however, Azerbaijan took back parts of Nagorno-Karabakh along with surrounding territory that Armenian forces had claimed during the earlier conflict. That fighting ended with a Russian-brokered cease-fire and the deployment of Russian peacekeepers. Those peacekeepers did little, however, to prevent the advances by Azerbaijani forces. With reporting by RFE/RL's Azerbaijani Service, AP, AFP, The New York Times, and Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/karabakh-refugees-us-eu-aid- thousands-flee-armenia-azerbaijan/32612197.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 Joann Ponzo was laid to rest Thursday having never known what happened to her son, Jaylen Griffin, who was 12 when he was last seen on Aug. 4, 2020. Ponzo died Sept. 18 at Sisters Hospital after her health rapidly deteriorated. She was 48. She struggled, said Kareema Morris, founder of Bury the Violence, who had supported her and helped in spreading awareness about Jaylens disappearance. She did the best she knew how. She loved her children. Jaylen was last seen leaving his home on Warren Avenue in the Broadway-Fillmore district, near the Central Terminal. He was believed to be headed to a convenience store on Broadway and Sears streets Sears Food Store. He never returned. Then three months later, Jaylens older brother, Jawaan Griffin was killed in a shooting on Memorial Drive. Jawaan was 18. He was shot and killed steps away from his home, Morris said. With one son missing and the other slain, Ponzo was left emotionally devastated. It frustrated her, Ponzo said. She felt helpless. He was shot in broad daylight in a heavily populated neighborhood. Ponzo was angry with the police for not doing more to solve either of the cases. Over the last three years, Morris and other community leaders led search parties and awareness campaigns to try to turn up clues to Jaylens whereabouts. They held vigils on Jaylens birthday and on the date of his disappearance and put up a billboard with his photo. In the summer of 2022, Buffalo police conducted a new search and used cadaver dogs but they found no trace of Jaylen. This year, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children provided an age-progressed image of what he might like today. Ponzo didnt like the image, Morris said. Thats not my son. It doesnt look like my son, Ponzo said. Morris understood that it was just too hard to imagine her child any other way than when she last saw him. Morris tried to encourage Ponzo to speak to the media about her son. She believed it would be the best way to draw publicity to the missing person case, but she always backed out. She wanted to talk. But she wasnt confident in talking. So many people had told her she doesnt sound good compared to other women out there, Morris said. I told her You have an audience waiting for you. Yet she always attended the vigils for Jaylen, insisting on releasing paper lanterns into the sky at the conclusion of the events. Morris said she tried to encourage Ponzo to stay hopeful, but Ponzo always feared that he was dead. Ponzo showed Morris a binder that she found in their house about two weeks after Jaylen disappeared. In it was a picture that Jaylen had drawn. Im gone already, he wrote on the picture. Ponzo wondered if he somehow knew his fate. Morris said she will carry on the search for Jaylen in Ponzos memory. I just have faith to believe no matter what it is, we will figure it out, she said. Ponzo is survived by her parents, Shirley Banks and Dallas Ponzo Sr.; siblings, Lamont Anderson, Angela Anderson, Jermaine Ponzo and Dallas Ponzo Jr.; and children, Davonna Roberts, David Roberts, Daevon Roberts, Jashara Griffin and Jaylen; and seven grandsons. A viewing will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Wednesday and a funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday at the Alan R. Core Funeral Home, 1933 Kensington Ave. Baku Detains Former Russian Businessman Vardanian, Who Briefly Served As Nagorno-Karabakh's De Facto PM By RFE/RL's Azerbaijani Service September 27, 2023 BAKU -- Azerbaijan's State Border Service (DSX) said on September 27 that it has detained billionaire Ruben Vardanian, a former Russian citizen of Armenian descent, who served as prime minister in the de facto government of the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh for less than four months before he was dismissed from the post in February. According to DSX, Vardanian was detained while leaving along with thousands of ethnic Armenians fleeing Nagorno-Karabakh, which is now under the full control of Azerbaijan, for Armenia via the Lachin Corridor. Vardanian was then transferred to Baku, the statement said. Vardanian's wife, Veronika Zonabend, has confirmed her husband's detention. "My husband, Ruben Vardanian...has been arrested by the Azerbaijani authorities at the border as he attempted to leave this morning, along with thousands of Armenians escaping Azerbaijani occupation," Zonabend said in a statement released by Vardanian's office. When Vardanian was dismissed from the post of de facto prime minister of Nagorno-Karabakh in February. Media reports in Armenia indicated that Azerbaijan had made the removal one of its conditions in reaching a peace agreement during talks between Baku and Yerevan about the future of the ethnic-Armenian dominated region, which lies wholly inside Azerbaijan's borders. Vardanian publicly renounced his Russian citizenship in September 2022 and said he made the decision to move to Nagorno-Karabakh with an understanding of all the risks he may face. He said at the time that after the 2020 Armenia-Azerbaijan war over Nagorno-Karabakh, which resulted in Baku's regaining control over large chunks of the disputed region and seven adjacent districts, "Armenians around the whole world" must be together with Nagorno-Karabakh. Nagorno-Karabakh, which along with the seven adjacent districts had been under ethnic Armenian control for nearly three decades prior to the war in 2020, is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan. The 2020 war ended with a Russia-brokered cease-fire under which Moscow deployed about 2,000 troops to the region to serve as peacekeepers. Last week, Azerbaijani forces staged a lightning offensive, overwhelming Nagorno-Karabakh forces, and taking control, after which tens of thousands of ethnic Armenians fled the region for Armenia. Vardanian was born in the Armenian capital, Yerevan, in 1968. He is the former chief executive officer of Russia's Troika Dialog investment bank, which was bought by Sberbank in 2011. In 2021, Forbes estimated Vardanian's assets at $1 billion. Forbes has called Vardanian one of the "founding fathers" of Russia's stock market. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/karabakh-vardanian- arrested-armenia-azerbaijan-russia/32612555.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 Poll Shows Slovaks Split Ahead Of Elections With Ukraine In Spotlight By RFE/RL September 27, 2023 Slovak opposition party Direction-Social Democracy (Smer), led by former Prime Minister Robert Fico, holds a narrow lead over its liberal challenger, Progressive Slovakia (PS), ahead of weekend elections that have revealed stark dividing lines over whether the country should continue to support Ukraine or instead seek closer ties with Russia. In the final opinion poll conducted by the IPSOS agency prior to the September 30 vote, Smer, which has taken a more pro-Russian stance over the war in neighboring Ukraine than other European Union members, garnered support at 20.6 percent compared with 19.8 percent for PS, which has shown a late surge in popularity. No matter which party wins, they are likely to need at least two coalition partners to form a government, according to the poll, conducted for news website Dennikn.sk, among 1,000 participants between September 22 and September 25. During the campaign, Fico, 59, has criticized Slovakia's arms supplies to Ukraine while pledging to stop shipments to Kyiv if he takes power. He has also dismissed further EU sanctions against Russia, questioned the possibility of Ukraine joining NATO, and repeated Kremlin narratives that NATO caused the war. "Why aren't we holding peace talks, for God's sake? Why are we always talking about what kind of munitions we're going to send to Ukraine, what kind of tanks we'll send there, how many billions of euros will be spent on further armaments?" he asks in a statement that mirrors the thinking of Viktor Orban, the leader of neighboring Hungary. "It's naive to think Russia will leave Crimea, it's naive to think that Russia will leave the territory it controls. So, explain to me, what's the good of all this killing?" Fico added. Progressive Slovakia leader Michal Simecka has warned such a policy shift could push the country into isolation. He has promised to maintain support for Ukraine as it tries to repel Russia's invasion, in line with EU and NATO partners. Slovakia has provided neighboring Ukraine with substantial military and humanitarian aid since the Russian invasion began in February 2022. But a study by the Bratislava-based think tank Globsec conducted earlier in 2023 noted that 69 percent of respondents agreed that by providing military equipment to Ukraine, Slovakia was provoking Russia and bringing itself closer to war. Slovaks' support for NATO membership has also shrunk to 58 percent this year from 72 percent in 2022, the poll showed. Globsec analysts say the results are due to disinformation. Fico was Slovakia's prime minister from 2006 to 2010 and again from 2012 to 2018. He remained a member of parliament and in 2022, he faced criminal charges of using sensitive information on political opponents. He denied the charges, which were eventually dropped, and has been seeking the removal of the special prosecutor who investigates high-level corruption allegations. With reporting by Ray Furlong in Bratislava, Reuters, and AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/slovakia-elections-ukraine-support- russia/32612834.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 Philippines, US to Hold Maritime Drills in South China Sea From October 2-13 Sputnik News 20230927 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Philippines and the United States will hold annual maritime military drills dubbed Samasama from October 2-13 in the southern part of the island of Luzon, the Philippine armed forces said on Wednesday. "The Philippine Navy is set to host this year's iteration of the PH-US Exercise SAMASAMA that is scheduled from 02 to 13 October 2023 at the Naval Forces Southern Luzon (NFSL) Area of Operations. SAMASAMA is a bilateral exercise between the United States Navy (USN) and the Philippine Navy (PN)," the armed forces said in a statement. The exercises are expected to enhance the Philippines' naval warfare capabilities, such as the offshore combat force for maritime security operations, and "cover the fundamentals of anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, anti-air warfare, and electronic warfare," the statement read. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said on Tuesday that Beijing had advised the Philippines to avoid any provocations in the disputed areas of the South China Sea. Earlier this week, Philippine newspaper The Manila Times reported that the Philippines had removed the floating barriers in the South China Sea, saying they were illegally placed by the China Coast Guard near the disputed area of Scarborough Shoal. Scarborough Shoal is located about 123 miles west of Subic Bay and is claimed by the Philippines, China and Taiwan. The training will also involve the navies of Japan, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom to improve maritime integration and combined interoperability, conduct exchanges of subject matter experts and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief events, the statement added. The drills will be held in the disputed waters of the South China Sea to counter China's influence in the region. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The UK calls for a de-escalation of tensions between Israel and Palestine: UK statement at the Security Council Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Middle Eastern Peace Process. 27 September 2023 Mr President, I have three areas I wish to highlight since our last meeting in August. Firstly, September 15 marked the third anniversary of the signing of the Abraham Accords. The UK celebrates the success of the accords and we are unabashed in encouraging more countries to normalise their relations with Israel and seize the opportunities it presents. We are also committed to making sure that normalisation delivers concrete benefits for the Palestinian people. Second, from 11 to 13 September, the British Foreign Secretary visited Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. The Foreign Secretary spoke with Israeli and Palestinian leaders where he called for a de-escalation of tensions, emphasised the importance of holding long-overdue elections in the OPTs, and made crystal clear the UK's commitment to a two-state solution as the only way to a safe and secure Israel living alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state. The 30th anniversary of the Oslo Accords is a poignant reminder that we must work together to achieve lasting and sustainable peace in the region. During his visit, the Foreign Secretary met the commissioner-general of UNRWA and he went to Jalazone refugee camp to see, first hand, the impact of the agency's work to protect the most vulnerable. This brings me to my third point. We have previously discussed the funding crisis that UNRWA faces. The UK was proud to announce an additional ten million pounds during the visit to help address the crisis. Other states also pledged more funds to UNRWA during high-level week, we must make sure those funds are available quickly and we must maintain efforts to put the agency on a more sustainable financial footing. Separately, I want to highlight a UN OCHA report published last week showing that 1,105 Palestinians were displaced from their communities since 2022. A major and rising concern is the increasing settler violence in the OPTs, largely unchallenged, renders Palestinians at risk of forcible transfer. We call on the Israeli government to tackle this threat. Tragically, 2023 has already seen at least 193 Palestinians killed by Israeli security forces in the West Bank and 31 Israelis have died at the hands of terrorists. We must end the cycle of violence. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israeli settlements 'systematically erode' viability of Palestinian State 27 September 2023 - The UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process on Wednesday expressed deep concern over the relentless expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem. During the last three months, more than 10,000 housing units were advanced, Tor Wennesland told ambassadors at the UN Security Council in New York. "Settlements further entrench the occupation, fuel violence, impede Palestinian access to their land and resources, and systematically erode the viability of a Palestinian State as part of a two-State solution", the senior envoy said. "I call on the Government of Israel to cease all settlement activity and dismantle outposts immediately, in line with its obligations under international law," he added. The regular briefings stem from Security Council resolution 2334, adopted in December 2016, which demanded that Israel stop building new settlements on Palestinian land. Escalating violence Mr. Wennesland also expressed concern over escalating violence in the occupied West Bank and Israel, at levels not seen in decades. He bemoaned the use of increasingly lethal weaponry, including in densely populated areas. There have been casualties on both sides. Palestinians, including children, were killed or injured during demonstrations, clashes, security operations, and attacks, while Israelis, including members of the security forces, suffered casualties also. Mr. Wennesland called for immediate steps to de-escalate tensions. "I condemn all acts of violence against civilians, including acts of terror. Such acts can never be justified and must be condemned by all. Perpetrators must be held accountable and swiftly brought to justice," he said. Funding crunch Additionally, Mr. Wennesland noted funding shortage affecting UN humanitarian agencies, including the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and World Food Programme (WFP), calling on Member States to provide more support. UNRWA urgently needs $75 million to maintain food assistance through December for 1.2 million Palestinians in Gaza, while WFP requires $32 million for aid efforts across the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT). Political process Concluding his briefing, the Special Coordinator said there was no substitute for a legitimate political process to resolve core of the issues driving the conflict. He reiterated his commitment to supporting both Palestinians and Israelis to resolve the decades of conflict, "in pursuit of the vision of two States - Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, viable, and sovereign Palestinian State - living side by side in peace and security within secure and recognized borders, on the basis of the pre-1967 lines, with Jerusalem as the shared capital of both States." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US urged to end detention of Venezuelan Special Envoy 27 September 2023 - The United States must end "the prolonged pre-trial detention" of Alex Nain Saab Moran, a Venezuelan Special Envoy who was arrested in 2020 and extradited to the US on money laundering charges, UN independent human rights experts said on Wednesday. They called for his immediate release and for the US "to comply with its obligations under international law...and drop all charges against him." Allegations Mr. Saab was appointed as a Special Envoy by the Government in Caracas in April 2018 to undertake official missions in Iran to secure humanitarian deliveries, including of food and medicine, a press release issued by the UN human rights office detailed. The US alleges the envoy was behind a corruption network involving a Government-subsidized food programme called CLAP that was in effect, stealing from the Venezuelan people, while also using food as a form of social control, according to the US Treasury. In July of the same year, Mr. Saab was placed under US sanctions for allegedly being responsible for inter alia engaging in transactions or programmes administered by the Venezuelan Government. On 12 June 2020, during his third trip to Iran, while in transit through Cabo Verde, he was arrested and detained by local authorities. Following an extradition request by the US, he was ultimately extradited in October 2021. Problematic arrest According to the Human Rights Council-appointed experts, the Cabo Verde courts dealing with his case reportedly rejected his numerous appeals against the extradition, his diplomatic status as an ad hoc diplomat and the decision in his favour by an ECOWAS Court in the region. They said the courts also "discarded numerous official communications" from Venezuela, and recommendations from international rights bodies, including the Human Rights Council's Special Procedures and the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights. "We note with concern the reported irregularities in the arrest and detention in Cabo Verde of Mr. Saab, prior to his extradition to the US," the experts said. "In particular, information we received indicates that at the exact moment of his arrest, while he was on his place at the Amilcar Cabral International Airport, there was no Red Notice by Interpol, nor an arrest warrant presented to him. Both were instead issued ex post facto," they noted. Charges against Saab Following his extradition, US judicial authorities dropped seven counts of money laundering against him, while maintaining a single count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. "We deeply regret that for almost two years since his extradition, Mr. Saab remains in detention awaiting trial for alleged conduct which is not considered an international crime, and thus should not have been the subject of extraterritorial or universal jurisdiction," the UN experts said. The experts were informed that since his extradition Saab was being detained at the Federal Detention Center in Miami, which is not a correctional institution, but instead a pre-trial administrative facility. Violation 'for millions' "The actions against Mr. Saab are not only violations of his human rights...but also a violation of the right to an adequate standard of living for millions of Venezuelans, as result of the abrupt interruption of his mission for the procurement of essential goods," the experts said. Special Rapporteurs and other independent UN experts are not UN staff. They serve in their individual capacity and receive no salary for their work. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address First Flight III Ship, Future USS Jack Lucas (DDG 125) Sails Away from Ingalls US Navy 27 September 2023 From Team Ships Public Affairs PASCAGOULA, Miss. -- The Navy's newest guided-missile destroyer, the future USS Jack H. Lucas (DDG 125), sailed away from the Huntington Ingalls Industries' (HII) Ingalls Shipbuilding Division shipyard, Sept 26. "Sail away of the first Flight III Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer is a historical event for the program," said Capt. Seth Miller, the DDG 51 program manager at the Arleigh Burke-class program office, Program Executive Office, Ships. "The Navy continues to field cutting-edge warfighting capability that will ply the oceans and deter our adversaries for decades to come." DDG-125 will be commissioned Oct. 7, 2023 at a ceremony in Tampa, Florida before sailing to its homeport in San Diego. DDG-125 is named for Pfc. Jacklyn Harold "Jack" Lucas, who served in the U.S. Marines during World War II, earning the Medal of Honor for his heroism at Iwo Jima, when he was just 17 years old. He is the youngest Marine, and the youngest serviceman in World War II, to be awarded the United States' highest military decoration for valor. In 1961, he returned to military service as a captain in the U.S. Army and trained younger troops headed for Vietnam. Arleigh Burke-class destroyers are multi-mission ships able to hold targets at risk on land, at sea, in the air, and under water using a suite of sophisticated weapons and sensors. The Flight III configuration includes the AN/SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar, providing greatly enhanced warfighting capability to the fleet. Ingalls is also in production on future destroyers Ted Stevens (DDG 128), Jeremiah Denton (DDG 129), George M. Neal (DDG 131), and Sam Nunn (DDG 133). As one of the Defense Department's largest acquisition organizations, PEO Ships is responsible for executing the development and procurement of all destroyers, amphibious ships, sealift ships, support ships, boats and craft. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address CTF Sentinel Commander visits USS Indianapolis US Navy 27 September 2023 From International Maritime Security Construct Public Affairs MANAMA, Bahrain -- The commander of the International Maritime Security Construct's (IMSC) Coalition Task Force (CTF) Sentinel visited USS Indianapolis (LCS 17) Sept. 26 to recognize the crew for its work in responding to maritime awareness calls in support of CTF Sentinel objectives. CTF Sentinel's commander, Royal Saudi Navy Commodore Saleh Aloufi, recognized Sailors who contributed to the ship's handling of 166 maritime awareness calls, reaching up to 3,320 merchant vessels, during August and September. Maritime awareness calls are the primary means by which CTF Sentinel deters state-sponsored malign activity. They reassure the merchant shipping industry by providing signs of a reliable presence. The visit marks his first to a ship supporting CTF Sentinel since he assumed command in August. "It is an honor to recognize the dedication of Indianapolis' Sailors who have worked tirelessly to provide reassurance to our merchant shipping partners," Aloufi said. "Ships such as Indianapolis are the backbone of our dynamic, multinational coalition, and I could not be more thankful for the professionalism displayed by this crew." During the visit, Aloufi witnessed a demonstration of the ship's capabilities, and received a brief on how the mission package onboard Indianapolis is well suited for executing the CTF Sentinel mission. "We are honored by Cdre. Aloufi's visit, and we very much appreciate the opportunity to contribute to the vitally important mission of CTF Sentinel to deter state sponsored malign activity throughout the operating area. The partnership between the United States, United Kingdom, and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is vital in the quest to maintain global stability, and I am confident that Indianapolis' legacy of service will continue to serve all of the partner nations well in this regard," said Cmdr. Matthew Arndt, USS Indianapolis commanding officer. Aloufi also took time to personally recognize Ensign McKenzie Eshelman, the ship's first lieutenant, who served as part of the bridge team which participated in maritime awareness calls. "For me, providing reassurance to the merchant vessels identified by CTF Sentinel's team was a very rewarding mission," said Eshelman. "Our work on Indianapolis directly supports the freedom of navigation and free flow of commerce." Headquartered in Bahrain, IMSC was established in September 2019. It promotes collaboration among member nations to deter threats and reassure regional mariners in and around the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb. Its operational task force, CTF Sentinel, was established a few months later to patrol maritime activity in the region. Current members include Albania, Bahrain, Estonia, Jordan, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and United States. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Defense Secretary Completes First Tour Across Africa By Carla Babb September 27, 2023 Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin returns to the United States Thursday after wrapping up his first tour across the African continent as Pentagon chief. Austin started his tour in Djibouti, home to the primary U.S. military base on the African continent. There he met with Djiboutian leaders and Somalia's president, whose forces, Austin said, had made more progress against the al-Shabab terror group in the past year than the previous five years combined. Austin then turned to Kenya, visiting a base in Manda Bay near the Somali border where a terrorist attack in 2020 killed three Americans. "Message here being very clear that the war on terror still remains top on the agenda of the American government," said Vincent Kimosop, a policy analyst with Sovereign Insight. The American and Kenyan defense secretaries signed a five-year security agreement to support working together against their common terror threat. Austin also pledged $100 million in support of Kenyan security deployments, as Kenya prepares to lead a multinational peacekeeping mission to Haiti to combat gang violence. "Kenya is ready, Kenya is willing to lead that multinational peacekeeping force that will go to Haiti," said Kenyan Cabinet Secretary of Defense Aden Duale. Austin ended his trip on Africa's western coast, becoming the first U.S. defense secretary to ever visit Angola. Officials of both nations are hopeful that Angola can dump Russia as its arms supplier and opt for American-made weapons. "Africa deserves better than outsiders trying to tighten their grip on this continent," Austin said. "Africa deserves better than autocrats selling cheap guns, pushing mercenary forces like the Wagner Group or depriving grain from hungry people all around the world." Austin called out African military juntas without naming Burkina Faso, Gabon, Mali or Niger. It was his most forceful rhetoric since the military removed Niger's elected president from power in July. "When generals overturn the will of the people and put their own ambitions above the rule of law, security suffers -- and democracy dies," Austin said. "Militaries exist to defend their people, not to defy them. And Africa needs militaries that serve their citizens and not the other way around." France decided this week to withdraw its military forces from Niger by the end of the year, and analysts say the U.S. could follow suit should the Nigerien military not return the elected government to power. "Niger has become the key hub, the key center of counterterrorism operations for the U.S. and France in the region," said Bill Roggio of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. "And if this is, if it's cut back, or if it's reduced, or if it's ended, there is no other assets in the region that the U.S. can use." The U.S. has so far kept its forces in Niger, but the Pentagon has declined to conduct counterterror operations with Niger's military. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taliban: 200 Anti-Pakistan Militants Arrested in Afghanistan By Ayaz Gul September 27, 2023 Afghanistan's Taliban says it has captured 200 suspected militants for staging deadly cross-border attacks against Pakistan and has implemented other "concrete steps" to "neutralize" the terrorist activity, VOA learned from Pakistani officials privy to the process. The de facto Afghan rulers shared the details about the crackdown on the outlawed Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP, in bilateral talks they hosted last week in Kabul with a high-level delegation from Islamabad. The dialogue came two weeks after hundreds of heavily armed militants assaulted two Pakistani security posts in the northern border district of Chitral. The September 6th raid killed four soldiers and 12 assailants, with the TTP claiming responsibility. The Taliban "arrested 200 TTP cadres returning from the Chitral attack. They are now behind bars," said an official who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to publicly interact with the media. He added that de facto Afghan authorities were in the process of relocating other TTP members away from the border with Pakistan. "But we have to wait and see the outcome of these steps before drawing any conclusions. So, you have to give them some time to consolidate these measures," the official remarked. The Taliban did not immediately react to the reported TTP crackdown. Monday, the Taliban's chief spokesman reiterated that his government does not allow anyone to use Afghan soil against Pakistan. "This is our stated policy. This is central to Afghanistan's national interest in promoting peace and reconciliation," Zabihullah Mujahid said in comments aired by Taliban-run state television. "We can only help Pakistan with its internal security issues according to our capacity. Pakistanis also understand our limitations; we cannot help them at borders because that is their responsibility," Mujahid stated. Pakistan's special representative on Afghanistan, Asif Durrani, led the delegation to Kabul, with senior military officials also accompanying him. Officials in Islamabad at the time described as "promising" their "extensive" discussions with Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi and his team. "We are not here to judge the intentions of that de facto government," Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, the caretaker Pakistani prime minister, told a Turkish television channel Monday when asked whether the Taliban were sincere in their intentions to curb TTP activities on Afghan soil. "Yes, we have a concern because groups like TTP do reside on Afghan soil. There are training camps on their soil, which is a point of concern for us. But whether it is intentional [or] enjoys the patronage of that government remains to be seen. We don't want to complicate that relationship," Kakar stated. The TTP, known as the Pakistani Taliban, is designated a global terrorist organization by Pakistan, the United States. and the United Nations. The militant group emerged in Pakistan's border areas in 2007, pledging allegiance to the leadership of the Afghan Taliban and supporting them in mounting insurgent attacks on U.S.-led NATO troops in Afghanistan until the foreign forces withdrew in August 2021after nearly two decades in the country. Taliban supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has forbidden his forces from launching cross-border attacks against Pakistan, calling them haram or un-Islamic. Akhundzada has also ordered Afghans not to collaborate with or give donations to the TTP for its so-called jihad against Pakistan and barred the militants from running donation collection campaigns in Afghanistan, Pakistani officials with knowledge of the recent discussions in Kabul told VOA. Pakistani officials said following the TTP attack in Chitral that scores of Afghan fighters had also participated in it, and the evidence was promptly shared with Kabul authorities to demand action against them. An internal TTP communication later emerged on social media, warning its fighters against recruiting Afghans into their ranks, suggesting the group had come under pressure from the Taliban government. Officials in Islamabad, while sharing their assessment with VOA, believe that the Taliban are "consciously distancing" themselves from groups aligned with them during the insurgency but which are now involved in criminal activities in Afghanistan, such as extortion, kidnapping for ransom, and terrorism. They remarked that Taliban leaders know they have a greater responsibility to address these issues because they are now in control of the country and must demonstrate to the world that they no longer act like an insurgent group as they seek recognition for their government. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US, Germany Call for Observers in Nagorno-Karabakh By VOA News September 27, 2023 The United States and Germany added to calls for international observers to be allowed into the Nagorno-Karabakh region, as Azerbaijan said Wednesday that 192 of its soldiers were killed in an operation to retake the area from ethnic Armenian separatists. The U.S. State Department said Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev in a phone call to assure people in Nagorno-Karabakh their rights will be protected and to allow for humanitarian access to the region. "The secretary urged President Aliyev to commit to broad amnesty and allow an international observer mission into Nagorno-Karabakh, and noted the President's public commitments to help build a future for all those in Nagorno-Karabakh based on peace, mutual understanding, and mutual respect," State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement. Aliyev's office said he told Blinken "that respective activities are underway to ensure the rights of Armenian residents living in the Karabakh region" and that Azerbaijan's forces targeted only military facilities in the 24-hour operation last week. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said Wednesday that allowing monitors into the region "would be proof of confidence that Azerbaijan is serious about its commitments on the security and the wellbeing of people in Nagorno-Karabakh." Baerbock also announced Germany would more than double the humanitarian aid it is providing through the International Red Cross, boosting the funding to more than $5 million. Azerbaijan's offensive has pushed thousands of ethnic Armenians to flee Nagorno-Karabakh, which is entirely within Azerbaijan but had been under ethnic Armenian control since 1994, until parts of it were reclaimed by Azerbaijan during a war in 2020. More than 43,000 people had arrived in Armenia by early Wednesday. Separatist officials said the casualties on their side included more than 200 dead and 400 injured. Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Readout of National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's Meeting with President Guillermo Lasso of Ecuador September 27, 2023 National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met yesterday with President Guillermo Lasso of Ecuador to discuss critical issues for the United States and Ecuador, including security, climate change, counter-drug cooperation, and addressing the migration challenge in the Western Hemisphere. During the meeting, National Security Advisor Sullivan noted the United States' commitment to joint efforts to deliver sustainable and inclusive economic growth for our people, including through the Americas Partnership for Economic Prosperity, and expanding lawful pathways as an alternative to smugglers who prey on vulnerable migrants. National Security Advisor Sullivan also thanked President Lasso for his support for Ukraine and his leadership on Haiti at the UN Security Council. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russo-Ukraine War - 27 September 2023 - Day 581 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 since mid-September 2023, Russia has highly likely committed elements of its new 25th Combined Arms Army (25 CAA) to action for the first time. The formation started moving into Ukraine from late August 2023. Units from two of 25 CAA's manoeuvre components, 67th Motor Rifle Division and 164th Separate Motor Rifle Brigade, are reported to be fighting on the front in a sector west of Severodonetsk and Kreminna, along the border between Donetsk and Luhansk Oblasts. Since the start of the invasion, Russia has only rarely maintained an uncommitted army-size grouping which could potentially form the basis of a major new offensive thrust. With 25 CAA apparently being deployed piecemeal to reinforce the over-stretched line, a concerted new Russian offensive is less likely over the coming weeks. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that during the day of September 27, there were 14x combat engagements. Russian forces launched a total of 44x air strikes, 27x MLRS attacks at the positions of Ukrainian troops and various settlements. Unfortunately, the Russian attacks have killed and wounded civilians. Residential buildings, a hospital and other civilian infrastructure were destroyed or damaged. The operational situation in east and south of Ukraine remains difficult. Volyn and Polissya axes: no significant changes. No signs of formation of an offensive group. Certain units of the armed forces of Belarus continue their missions in the areas bordering Ukraine. Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna axes: Russia maintains its military presence in the areas of russia bordering Ukraine. Russia continues to shell Ukrainian settlements from the territory of Russia and increases the density of minefields along the state border of Ukraine. Russian forces launched an air strike in the vicinity of settlements of Popivka (Chernihiv oblast). 25x settlements came under Russian artillery and mortar fire, including Tur'ya, (Chernihiv oblast), Khliborob, Chernats'ke, Rudak, Rozhkovychi, Yastrubshchyna (Sumy oblast), Odnorobivka, Hlyboke, Starytsya, Hatyshche (Kharkiv oblast). Kup'yans'k axis: Russian forces launched air strikes near Bolohivka, Kruhlyakivka (Kharkiv oblast) and Novoselivs'ke (Luhansk oblast). Vicinities of settlements of Dvorichna, Syn'kivka, Petropavlivka, Ivanivka, Kyslivka, Berestove (Kharkiv oblast) came under artillery and mortar fire of the Russian adversary. Lyman axis: Nadiya, Novojehorivka, Nevs'ke (Luhansk oblast), Sivers'k, Spirne, Vesele (Donetsk oblast) were the targets of Russian air strikes. Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at more than 10x settlements, including Nevs'ke, Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast), Spirne, Rozdolivka (Donetsk oblast). Bakhmut axis: the Ukrainian defenders successfully repelled a Russian attack in the vicinity of Hryhorivka. Russian forces launched air strikes near Andriivka, Kostyantynivka, Pivnichne, Toretsk (Donetsk oblast). More than 15x settlements came under artillery and mortar fire, including Mykolaivka, Markove, Ivanivske, Klishchiivka, Andriivka, Kurdyumivka (Donetsk oblast). Russia continues to increase the density of minefields. Avdiivka axis: Russian forces launched air strikes near Avdiivka and Vodyane. The Russian invaders fired artillery and mortars at more than 10x settlements, including Novobakhmutivka, Novokalynove, Stepove, Avdiivka, Sjeverne, Pervomais'ke (Donetsk oblast). Mar'inka axis: during the day of September 27, Ukrainian defenders successfully repelled 8x Russian attacks in the immediate vicinity of Mar'inka (Donetsk oblast). Russian forces launched an air strike near Novomykhailivka (Donetsk oblast). The Russian occupants fired artillery at about 10x settlements, including Krasnohorivka, Oleksandropil', Mar'inka, Pobjeda, Novomykhailivka, Katerynivka (Donetsk oblast). Shakhtars'ke axis: the Ukrainian defenders successfully repelled a Russian attack in the vicinity of Rivnopil' (Donetsk oblast). Russian forces launched air strikes in the vicinities of Urozhaine and Staromaiors'ke (Donetsk oblast). Around 10x settlements, including Bohoyavlenka, Vuhledar, Prechystivka, Zolota Nyva, Blahodatne, Urozhaine (Donetsk oblast), came under artillery and mortar fire. Zaporizhzhia axis: Russian forces launched an air strike in the vicinity of Novodanylivka (Zaporizhzhia oblast). More than 20x settlements came under artillery and mortar fire, including Charivne, Robotyne, Mali Shcherbaky, Levadne, Hulyaipole, Orikhiv, Shcherbaky, Kam'yans'ke, Plavni (Zaporizhzhia oblast) and Nikopol' (Dnipropetrovsk oblast). Kherson axis: the Russian adversary launched air strikes in the vicinities of settlements of Mykolaivka, Burhunka and Ol'hivka (Kherson oblast). More than 10x settlements came under Russian artillery and mortar fire, including Antonivka, Dniprovs'ke, Shyroka Balka (Kherson oblast), and the city of Kherson. At the same time, the Ukrainian defense forces continue their offensive operation on Melitopol' axis and offensive (assault) operations on Bakhmut axis, inflicting losses in manpower and equipment on the occupation forces, exhausting the Russian forces all along the front line. During the day of September 27, the Ukrainian Air Force launched 7x air strikes on the concentrations of troops, weapons, and military equipment of the Russian adversary. Also, Ukrainian defenders shot down 2x reconnaissance UAVs of operational and tactical level. The Ukrainian missile troops hit 1x S-300 surface-to-air missile system and 4x artillery systems of the Russian occupiers. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that in South Donetsk direction, the Yug Group of Forces' units, avaation and artillery repelled ten attacks of AFU 54th, 93rd mechanised, 59th mechanised infantry, 79th air assault, and 5th assault brigades' assault groups near Spornoye, Kleshcheyevka, and Nevelskoye (Donetsk People's Republic). The enemy losses were up to 390 servicemen killed and wounded, four tanks, nine infantry fighting vehicles, seven motor vehicles, and two U.S.-manufactured M777 artillery systems. One ammunition depot of the AFU 31st Mechanised Brigade has been destroyed near Zarya (Donetsk People's Republic). In Zaporozhye direction, units of the Russian grouping of troops, aviation, artillery, and heavy flamethrower systems have repelled one attack by the 71st Jaeger Brigade of the AFU close to Verbovoye (Zaporozhye region). In addition, AFU 47th, 117th mechanised brigades' clusters of manpower have been hit close to Rabotino (Zaporozhye region). Over 60 Ukrainian personnel, two armoured fighting vehicles, and three motor vehicles have been eliminated. In the course of the counter-battery warfare, two U.S.-manufactured M777 artillery systems, one Akatsiya self-propelled artillery system, as well as one Msta-B howitzer were destroyed. In South Donetsk direction, the Vostok Group of Forces' units, supported by artillery, repelled one attack of the AFU 127th Territorial Defence Brigade assault group near Priyutnoye (Zaporozhye region). Ground-Attack Aviation and helicopters launched attacks at AFU 31st, 72nd mechanisedm 58th mechanised infantry, 79th air assault, and 38 marine brigades' clusters of manpower and hardware close to Staromayorskoye, Vladimirovka, Nikolskoye, Urozhaynoye, and Sladkoye (Donetsk People's Republic). The enemy losses were over 150 Ukrainian servicemen, two armoured fighting vehicles, five motor vehicles, and three D-20 howitzers. In Krasny Liman direction, as a result of coordinated actions by units of the Tsentr Group of Forces, helicopters, and artillery, two attacks by assault groups of the 5th National Guard Brigade's units and the 67th Mechanised Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine have been repelled close to Grigorovka (Donetsk People's Republic) and Chervonaya Dibrova (Lugansk People's Republic). In addition, AFU 63rd and 67th mechanised brigades' clusters of manpower and hardware have been hit close to Torskoye and Yampolovka (Donetsk People's Republic), Chervonaya Dibrova (Lugansk People's Republic). The enemy losses were up to 55 Ukrainian personnel, two armoured fighting vehicles, and two motor vehicles have been eliminated. In the course of the counter-battery warfare, one Msta-B and one D-30 howitzers were destroyed. In Kupyansk direction, the Zapad Group of Forces' units, aviation and artillery launched attacks at AFU 25th airborne, 14th, 92nd mechanised brigades' manpower and hardware close to Novosyolovskoye (Lugansk People's Republic), Ivanovka, Sinkovka, Berestovoye (Kharkov region). Up to 15 Ukrainian personnel and two motor vehicles have been eliminated. One U.S.-manufactured M777 artillery system and two Msta-B howitzers were destroyed. In Kherson direction, the enemy losses were over 45 Ukrainian servicemen, three motor vehicles, and one U.S.-manufactured M777 artillery system. A sabotage and reconnaissance group of the AFU has been destroyed near Olgovka (Kherson region). Operational-Tactical and Army aviation, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation have neutralised manpower and military hardware in 108 areas. Command and observation posts of AFU 80th, 82nd air assault, 10th mountain assault, 118th mechanised brigades have been hit near Verbovoye, Rabotino, Chervony Yar (Zaporozhye region) and Karpovka (Donetsk People's Republic). The Russian anti-aircraft defence means have shot down eight U.S.-manufactured HIMARS projectiles. 19 UAVs were eliminated close to Verkhnekamenka, Golikovo (Lugansk People's Republic), Zolotaryovka, Gorlovka, Kodema (Donetsk People's Republic), Ternovatoye, Vladimirovka (Zaporozhye region), Gladkovka (Kherson region), Zhovtnevoye (Kharkov region). In total, 479 airplanes, 250 helicopters, 7,191 unmanned aerial vehicles, 438 air defence missile systems, 12,170 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,155 fighting vehicles equipped with MLRS, 6,557 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 13,449 special military motor vehicles have been destroyed during the special military operation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US, Latin America Seek to Boost Cybersecurity By Jeff Seldin September 27, 2023 Countries up and down the Western Hemisphere are looking to eliminate weaknesses in their cyber infrastructure that could give potential adversaries, including China and Russia, the ability to do extensive damage by exploiting a single vulnerability. The United States and 20 partner countries from across the Americas will meet at the Organization of American States (OAS) in Washington Wednesday and Thursday for what U.S. officials are calling a first-of-its-kind summit designed to strengthen their individual and collective cyber defenses. "We need to partner with one another to strengthen the cybersecurity of the region, as well as the individual countries," U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas told reporters Tuesday, adding that many countries are still in the "formative stages" when it comes to developing and deploying cyber defenses. Already, at least a handful of Latin American countries have been victimized by cyberattacks. Just last month, Ecuadorian officials said cyberattacks targeted voting systems used by Ecuadorians while voting overseas in China, India and Bangladesh. And in 2022, Costa Rica was beset by a series of cyberattacks attributed to the Russian-based Conti ransomware gang, which resulted in a state of emergency. "We were attacked, affecting the backbone of the functioning of the state," Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves Robles told an audience in Washington last month. "Our tax system, our customs system, electricity, even meteorological services. ... Our health system was attacked," he said. "It was ugly." Already, the U.S. has pledged $25 million to Costa Rica to help the country create an operation center to better detect and mitigate attacks. But officials, like Mayorkas, warn that more dangers are lurking. "We are seeing an only increasing exploitation of infrastructure," the Homeland Security secretary said, pointing specifically to China. "What we are seeing is an assertive PRC [People's Republic of China] seeking to gain an increasing foothold in certain Latin American countries' infrastructure," Mayorkas said, in response to a question from VOA. "That creates a greater level of vulnerability rather than a source of cybersecurity strength," he added. "For countries that pride themselves on their democracy, on their independence, on their sovereignty, they have to maintain the independence and freedom of their [cyber] infrastructure." Chinese officials have repeatedly dismissed such concerns, saying claims in August by the commander of U.S. Southern Command, General Laura Richardson, were nothing more than "lies and rumors ... and slander." But Richardson warned that China's efforts to build critical infrastructure across Latin America, including high-speed, 5G mobile phone networks, has put China in Washington's "red zone" as a potential threat. In addition to the U.S., Ecuador, Costa Rica and the OAS, officials from Peru, the Dominican Republic, Canada, the Bahamas, Panama, El Salvador, Brazil, Argentina and Mexico are expected to participate in the summit. U.S. officials say one of the topics that will be up for discussion during the two-day summit is the possible creation of a regional cybersecurity hub to facilitate best practices and share threat warnings. Panels are also expected to focus on protecting critical cyber systems, and the transportation and banking sectors. Other panels will focus on building the capacity of law enforcement agencies to go after cyber criminals. And U.S. officials said they also expect some discussion of Chinese and Russian influence campaigns that sometimes accompany cyberattacks by actors linked to both nations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Raisi: Nour 3 satellite launch another sign of sanctions' failure IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Sep 27, 2023 Tehran, IRNA -- Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi has congratulated the nation on the successful launch of the Nour 3 imaging satellite into the space, describing the achievement as another sign of the failure of the sanctions and threats by the enemies of the Islamic Republic. The president issued a message on Wednesday, hours after his Minister of Information and Communications Technology Issa Zarepour announced the launch by the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps' Aerospace Force. "The production and placing the Iranian Nour 3 satellite into an orbit of 450km from Earth, using Iranian satellite carrier Qased, once again showed that threats and sanctions have no impact on the determination of our young scientists for the progress of the Islamic Iran," Raisi said in his message. He called the launch "a national success" and the result of his administration's attention to the country's space industry. The president expressed gratitude towards all those active in that industry. He also called on the Ministry of Information and Communications as well as the Iranian Space Agency to continue to pave the way for the progress of the country's space industry. Iran seeks to expand its aerospace sector to be able to use satellites for various applications, including for management of agriculture lands and for research activities. 4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran reports successful launch of Nour 3 imaging satellite IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Sep 27, 2023 Tehran, IRNA -- Iran has successfully launched an imaging satellite into space as the country moves ahead with plans to expand the use of satellites for research and management activities. Iran's telecoms minister said in a social media post on Wednesday that Nour 3 satellite had been successfully placed into an orbit of 450 kilometers from Earth. Issa zarepour said the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Aerospace Force had carried out the launch using the home-made Ghassed launch vehicle. "I congratulate this success to the people, those working hard in the country's aerospace sector and experts at the IRGC Aerospace Force," said the minister in his post in Farsi on Virasty. Iran seeks to expand its aerospace sector to be able to use satellites for various applications, including for management of agriculture lands and for research activities. 4261**7129 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address IRGC to use Nour-3 satellite for military intelligence purposes: Chief commander Iran Press TV Wednesday, 27 September 2023 2:09 PM The chief commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) says the elite force will use the newly-launched Nour-3 imaging satellite for military intelligence purposes. "We use the collection of what we receive (from the satellite) and [the information] it gathers from the Earth to meet the IRGC's intelligence demands," said Major General Hossein Salami on Wednesday as he was addressing a gathering of IRGC officers and veterans in Tehran. His comments came hours after the IRGC placed Nour-3, also known as Najm, into orbit using its home-grown Qased satellite carrier. Iran's telecoms ministry said the satellite, which will be used for measurement and reconnaissance missions, had been successfully placed into an orbit of 450 kilometers from Earth. Information released by the IRGC said the satellite had traveled with a speed of 7.6 kilometers per second allowing it to be placed into orbit some 500 seconds after its launch. Elaborating on the specifications of the Nour-3, Salami said the satellite is seven kilograms heavier than its previous version Nour-2 and features imaging equipment that are more precise and produce pictures with better quality. Commander of IRGC's Aerospace Division Brigadier General Amir-Ali Hajizadeh said after the launch that the force plans two more satellite launches until the end of the current Iranian calendar year which will be late March. Hajizadeh said the launches will enable Iran to have a "constellation of satellites" in the space in the near future. The IRGC had launched Nour-1 into a 425-km orbit on April 22, 2020 before it placed Nour-2 into an orbit of 500 kilometers from earth on February 27, 2022. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran's Revolutionary Guard Reveals Mission of New Nour-3 Satellite Sputnik News 20230927 Ilya Tsukanov The Noor-3 (lit. 'Light-3') space satellite was blasted off into orbit aboard a Qased ('lit. Messenger') carrier rocket on Wednesday. Previous satellites in the series were met with mockery and derision from Pentagon officials, but the ridicule soon stopped after Iran showed off the spacecraft's impressive capabilities. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) will be using its Nour-3 satellite to collect military intelligence, IRGC Chief Hossein Salami has confirmed. "We use the collection of what we receive from the satellite and [the information] it gathers from the Earth to meet the IRGC's intelligence demands," Salami said in a meeting in Tehran on Wednesday. Separately, IRGC Aerospace Force Commander Amir-Ali Hajizadeh said that the Nour-3 would be "involved in signal collection," and revealed that by the end of the current Iranian calendar year (in March of 2024), Iran has plans to launch "two more satellites." "With the progress we are making in this direction, in the not-so-distant future, we will have a constellation of satellites in orbit," Hajizadeh said. Iranian Minister of Communications and Information Technology Issa Zarepour announced earlier in the day that the Noor-3 had been successfully launched into orbit, some 450 km above the Earth's surface. Iran is one of just a handful of countries in the world with the capability to develop, produce, launch and independently operate satellites, and has arguably the best-developed space-based capabilities in the Muslim World. Iran's space endeavors are split between a civilian and military program, with the latter operated by the IRGC. The Noor-3's successful launch follows the deployment in space of the Nour-2 in 2022, and the Nour-1 in 2020. The latest satellite in the series weighs some seven kilograms more than its predecessor, and according to IRGC chief Salami, features superior onboard imaging technology allowing for better quality and resolution snapshots of the Earth from space. US officials have offered a bipolar assessment of Iran's space program, vacillating between criticism of Tehran's rocket and satellite launches based on claims that they could be used to further the development of the Middle Eastern nation's missile program, and mockery of the Islamic Republic's space capabilities compared Washington's. In 2020, shortly after the launch of the first Noor-series satellite, then-US Chief of Space Operations Jay Raymond derided the spacecraft as a mere "tumbling webcam in space" that would be "unlikely" to provide Iran with any usable intelligence. Raymond was showed up by the Iranians months later when the IRGC released detailed images snapped by the Noor-1 of Al-Udeid Air Base - the Qatar-based home of US Central Command and the largest US military base in the Middle East. The Noor-2 followed up in 2022 by sending back a detailed panoramic image centered on the headquarters of the US Fifth Fleet in Manama, Bahrain, with Iran receiving previously unprecedented capabilities to monitor US military activities in its backyard in crisp detail with its Noor series spacecraft. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ingenuity wins the day By Major Dan Mazurek 27 September 2023 More than 100 soldiers from the Armed Forces of the Philippines participated in Exercise Carabaroo in Darwin alongside soldiers from Australia, Indonesia, Timor-Leste and the United States Marine Corps in August and September. Exercise Carabaroo took place parallel to the Indonesian Exercise Wirra Jaya and the 1st Brigade's own annual capstone training event Exercise Predator's Run. To the personnel, it might have seemed like one big exercise as soldiers from five different nations worked shoulder to shoulder across sites in Darwin, Mount Bundey and the Tiwi Islands. Under Exercise Predator's Run, the 1st Brigade was divided into two distinct battle groups: Tiger and Goanna. Battle Group Goanna, led by 1st Combat Engineer Regiment, comprised Australian, Filipino and Timorese soldiers, and Goanna Commander Lieutenant Colonel Travis Day couldn't have been more impressed by the professionalism and skill of the integrated partner forces. "Working with the Philippines soldiers has been fantastic," Lieutenant Colonel Day said. "We've really benefited from the expertise of our Filipino small-boat specialists, and we've been able to integrate Australian and Filipino soldiers down to section-level to all learn from each other." The exercise concluded with a dramatic assault on the Channel Island power facility, just south-east of the Darwin CBD. "The assault commenced with a Philippine-commanded mechanised force conducting a feint across the only bridge leading onto the island, clearing it of mines and obstacles before proceeding across," Lieutenant Colonel Day said. "Their feint was successful, distracting the enemy from the flotilla of small boats simultaneously infiltrating the island from the west." Indeed, earlier that morning, about two dozen small craft departed for the island under cover of the pre-dawn darkness. By the time the Zodiacs and assault boats made landfall, the enemy force on the island found themselves pressed from both sides. The successful assault on Channel Island also required Battle Group Goanna to suppress the enemy from the water, but until the littoral support vessels specified in the Defence Strategic Review are delivered, Goanna needed to improvise. They adapted a weapons platform using M113s and a direct-fire weapons support machine gun section from the 5th Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment, embarked on an improved ribbon bridge - a floating engineer raft. The tugged platform not only looked like an old destroyer on the horizon, but laid down a barrage of firepower to support the attack. By the end of the morning, there was a satisfying mix of uniforms celebrating atop the objective. As the 1st Brigade transitions to littoral operations, working seamlessly with partner nations will be just as critical as flexibility and resourcefulness. Fortunately, the assault on Channel Island proved that ingenuity is in ample supply in the Top End. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address No time for finger pointing; we must work together to tackle pressing challenges, says Canada 26 September 2023 - The health of our planet, its people, institutions, and the global economy are at serious risk, and such deep challenges cannot be tackled in isolation, Robert Rae, Ambassador of Canada to the United Nations, told the General Assembly's annual high-level debate on Tuesday. Noting that we are at the halfway point in the global effort to ensure achievement of the of the Sustainable Development Goals, Mr. Rae said: "The consensus this past week was clear: we are far behind where we need to be to meet the commitments we have made to our populations and to one another." Canadians are also experiencing climate and environmental crises, he continued, recalling that his country experienced the most destructive forest fires in its history this summer. "[All these challengers] are not a window into our future, but rather a testimony to our present," cautioned Mr. Rae, emphasizing that the response to these challenges must not be complacent, divided or nostalgic. "It is not a question of pointing fingers or looking for panaceas, but rather of taking concrete measures to help address, both in Canada and around the world, the challenges we face together," insisted the Representative. Hotspots Talking about migration crisis including the Darien Gap migration, Rohingya displacement in Bangladesh, Afghanistan refugees and Syrian refugees in neighboring countries, and the conflict in Sudan, Mr. Rae expressed shock in how many people are forcibly displaced around the world, underscoring the need to see these issue in a 'broader, global light.' Gender equality, democracy Turning to women's empowerment, Mr. Rae stated: "Gender equality is a not an issue to be bartered against perceptions of progress, nor is it a "nice to have" or something to be qualified." Calling attention to the importance of upholding the values of free and democratic societies, he noted: "We have seen, and continue to realize, extent to which democracies are under threat through various means of foreign interference." He further added that we can get closer to equality, and to justice, by building open, inclusive societies, and by promoting and protecting human rights for all and upholding the rule of law. War in Ukraine Mr. Rae reminded the Assembly that the UN Charter clearly commits all States to end the scourge of war and as such, Russia's aggressions against Ukraine violated the Organization's founding document. Asserting that Russia should be held accountable for its actions, he added: "We welcome the indictments by the International Criminal Court against President Putin and his Commissioner for Children's Rights. Because no one is above the law." "Canada will continue to explore every measure to support Ukraine as it continues to defend itself, its people, its identity, its sovereignty and territorial integrity," he concluded. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China opposes US' blacklisting three more Chinese companies over 'forced labor' accusation Global Times US' 'Uygur bill' does not concern human rights, but to contain China; will shoot itself in the foot: analysts By Liu Xin Published: Sep 27, 2023 09:15 PM The purpose of the US banning imports from Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is never to protect the human rights of ethnic groups but to suffocate the development of the Xinjiang region and contain China, analysts said. They criticized the latest move by the US of adding three more companies to its entity list under the excuse of "forced labor" is only "shooting itself in the foot," and said it will additionally pose a negative impact on global supply chains and American companies. The US Department of Homeland Security said in a statement that it added three Chinese companies - Xinjiang Tianmian Foundation Textile Co Ltd, Xinjiang Tianshan Wool Textile Co. Ltd, and Xinjiang Zhongtai Group Co. Ltd - to the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) Entity List for their business practices involving "persecuted" minorities in Xinjiang, bringing the total number of entities on the list to 27, Reuters reported. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Wednesday that China has made clear time and again that the allegation of "forced labor" in Xinjiang is nothing but an enormous lie propagated by people against China to smear our country's image. "It is the very opposite of the fact that the rights and interests of people of all ethnic backgrounds in Xinjiang are effectively protected," he said. The US uses that lie as a basis to enforce the so-called "Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act", blacklist Chinese entities and go after more Chinese companies. The move is actually aimed at undermining Xinjiang's prosperity and stability and containing China's development. The move also tears at international trade rules and market order, Wang said. Wang emphasized that China urges the US to immediately stop smearing China and stop meddling in China's internal affairs under the pretext of human rights. We will continue to resolutely safeguard Chinese companies' legitimate and lawful rights and interests. The UFLPA, which took effect in June 2022, banned all products from China's Xinjiang region citing concerns of so-called "forced labor." It has been described as an evil bill since the day it was introduced as it forced companies to undergo self-review to pull anything related to China's Xinjiang region out of their supply chains. For the past years, the US has intensified efforts to block products related to tomatoes, cotton textile industries and the photovoltaic (PV) industry from Xinjiang region with the purpose to forcibly eliminate the region from the global supply chain, Jia Chunyang, an expert at the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, told the Global Times on Wednesday. However, Jia said, these efforts have failed. The US move to add three more companies in the Xinjiang region signals it is imposing wider and harsher sanctions on more companies to comprehensively beleaguer the region, strangling its economic development and sabotaging its social stability, Jia said. On Tuesday, the US State Department also updated its Xinjiang Supply Chain Business Advisory, which accused China of "genocide and crimes against humanity" and "forced labor" in the Xinjiang region. The US' unilateral sanctions on Chinese companies, which are based on groundless accusations, have not only affected the stability of global supply chains but also serve to "shoot itself in the foot," said Jia. For example, the US' ban on the imports of solar panel raw material - polysilicon - from China's Xinjiang region would put Biden's climate change goals in danger. Moreover, Germany's biggest utility has reportedly warned that the US' UFLPA "significantly hinders plans to build a green energy infrastructure," media reported. It has been the US' strategic target to rip the Xinjiang region from the global supply chain to suppress China's development, which means the US will not give up any opportunity to hype human rights topics in Xinjiang and other regions to stigmatize China's image, Chang Jian, director of the Research Center for Human Rights at the Tianjin-based Nankai University, told the Global Times. Chang warned that China should keep alert to the US' long-term tactics of using human rights to attack China, and that Chinese companies should make preparations in case the US imposes unilateral sanctions. Despite the anti-China forces' intensified smearing of China, analysts noted that more people in the international community are speaking out the voice of justice, and with more foreign diplomats, scholars, and religious groups coming to visit Xinjiang and seeing its development with their own eyes, the lies made by anti-China politicians and forces in the US are collapsing, analysts said. For example, a delegation of diplomats from 24 countries visited Xinjiang in early August, during which they saw modern technologies widely used in cotton fields, visited mosques, and talked to locals in scenic spots and residential communities. Many diplomats noted that some Western media's reports on the Xinjiang region are fake, and the truth of the region must be told to the outside world, media reported. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China, US maintain engagement via diverse channels, 'but still far from cooperation' Global Times By Yang Sheng and Zhang Yuying Published: Sep 27, 2023 09:34 PM China and the US are maintaining communication in different channels after a series of visits by cabinet members of President Joe Biden's administration, as former US treasury secretary Henry Paulson, who represents the interests of Wall Street elites to some extent, met with senior Chinese officials during a trip to Beijing. Chinese experts said on Wednesday that maintaining engagement does not mean a recovery of bilateral ties and cooperation, and warned that if the US really wants higher level exchanges with China, Washington should show more sincerity rather than adding more obstacles. Chinese Vice President Han Zheng met Paulson in Beijing on Tuesday, saying China welcomes more US companies to invest and do business in China to share development opportunities, the Xinhua News Agency reported on Tuesday. Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs, also met with a delegation led by Paulson on the same day. During the dialogue with Paulson, Chinese officials repeatedly expressed the country's sincere stance about how to deal with the US and how China will welcome US companies to invest and do business in China, but that a successful recovery in bilateral ties requires more sincerity from the US. If Biden wants higher level talks with China later this year, his administration should make the effort to create the conditions not only economically, but also politically, experts said. Showing confidence Han said during the meeting with Paulson that China always follows the guiding principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation in dealing with relations with the US. It is hoped that the US side can work with China to bring bilateral ties back to the track of sound and steady growth. Since the beginning of this year, China's economy has kept to a general rebound track. The Chinese side will continue to optimize economic structures, deepen reform and opening-up, and achieve high-quality development, Han said. "We welcome more US companies to invest and do business in China to share development opportunities together," Han added. Some US officials and media have bad-mouthed the Chinese economy recently, and some of them once again are trying to stigmatize China's market and the Chinese government's attitude on opening-up, adopting scare tactics to warn US companies off China to serve their purposes of "decoupling with China." The remarks by the Chinese vice president are yet more proof that attempts to further poison China-US ties are doomed to fail, as they are against the facts, as well as the will for cooperation among the two countries, experts noted. For his part, Paulson said he has confidence in the prospects of China's economic development, and US-China relations have an important impact on the world. The two countries should maintain communication and dialogue, strengthen people-to-people exchanges and economic and trade cooperation, and jointly cope with global challenges such as climate change. Paulson also expressed willingness to continue playing a positive role in promoting the steady development of US-China relations. Many US media have high expectations of a possible China-US summit later this year on the sidelines of the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting which will be held in San Francisco in November. Wang, who is also Chinese Foreign Minister, said on Tuesday that "the APEC meeting is supposed to be a stage for promoting cooperation, instead of a wrestling ground for provoking confrontations." As the largest developing country and an important member of APEC, China is willing to play a constructive role in the success of this year's APEC meeting, said the foreign minister at a press conference on Tuesday to discuss a new white paper titled "A Global Community of Shared Future: China's Proposals and Actions." Diao Daming, a professor at Renmin University of China in Beijing, told the Global Times on Wednesday that "as a responsible major power, China expressed a positive will, so the US should show its sincerity too. The US, at this moment, is still creating obstacles, not conditions for a higher level of communication with China, and these obstacles should be removed." More sincerity needed Wang said at his meeting with Paulson that the nosedive in China-US relations does not meet the interests of the two peoples, the expectations of the international community or the trend of the times. It is hoped that the US will return to the rational and pragmatic track in its China policy, take concrete actions to lengthen the positive list and shorten the negative list, and work with China to explore ways of peaceful coexistence as two major countries. Paulson welcomed the recent resumption and maintenance of dialogue between the US and China, adding that the two sides should indeed find the right way to get along with each other, build mutual trust, and push for the steady improvement of US-China relations. LA Xiang, an expert on US studies and a research fellow at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times on Wednesday that Paulson is a US political and financial figure who witnessed China-US cooperation during the global financial crisis in 2008, so he clearly understands the importance of China-US interdependency. Paulson, to some extent, represents the interests of pragmatic and reasonable Wall Street elites who are disappointed and dissatisfied with the Biden administration's handling of ties with China, but to what extent he could exert a positive impact to ease tensions is in question, LA noted. Separately, China and the US announced the establishment of two working groups in the economic field, China's Ministry of Finance (MOF) announced Friday, according to Xinhua. The working groups will cover economic and financial sectors. The economic working group will be co-chaired by vice-ministerial officials from the MOF and the US treasury department. The financial working group will be co-chaired by vice-ministerial officials from the People's Bank of China and the US Department of the Treasury. LA said this outcome is positive for maintaining and resuming communication, but it is still far from cooperation. It reveals that the US Treasury needs cooperation more desperately, especially amid US government debt woes, but US commerce authorities still show no sincerity while they continue to pile on more obstacles. According to Reuters on Monday, the US Commerce Department, which oversees export policy, imposed new trade restrictions on 11 Chinese and five Russian companies, accusing "some of supplying components to make drones for Russia's war effort in Ukraine." Diao said when dealing with other countries, the US only cares about its own interests, and shows no respect for other countries' interests and concerns. The US should correct its mistakes and meet China halfway, which is the only way bilateral ties can be stabilized and recovered. "We hope the Biden administration will take concrete steps to reach agreements with China before everything gets more complicated in the year of US presidential elections," LA said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin's Regular Press Conference on September 27, 2023 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China Xinhua News Agency: It was reported that two members of Bahrain's army were killed and many injured in a drone attack on the Saudi-led coalition force near Saudi Arabia's southern border by Yemen's Houthis. What's China's comment? Wang Wenbin: China opposes actions that escalate tensions and calls on relevant parties to work in the same direction towards a political settlement through dialogue and restore peace and stability at an early date. Reuters: According to the Philippine government, the Philippine Coast Guard on Monday removed a floating barrier installed by China at Huangyan Dao on Sunday. The Philippine government added that China Coast Guard has removed remnants of the floating barrier. So my question is, did China remove remnants of the floating barrier? Has China's position on its sovereign claim over Huangyan Dao changed? Will China continue to install the floating barrier going forward? Wang Wenbin: Yesterday, I made clear China's position on the issue, and you may refer to that. I would like to reiterate that Huangyan Dao has always been China's territory. What the Philippines did looks like nothing more than self-amusement. China will continue to safeguard our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests over Huangyan Dao. CRI: On September 26, the US Department of Homeland Security announced that it added three China-based companies to an entity list as a result of Xinjiang-related "forced labor" enforcement. What's China's response? Wang Wenbin: China has made clear time and again that the allegation of "forced labor" in Xinjiang is nothing but an enormous lie propagated by people against China to smear our country's image. It is the very opposite of the fact that the rights and interests of people of all ethnic backgrounds in Xinjiang are effectively protected. The US uses that lie as a basis to enforce the so-called "Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act", blacklist Chinese entities and go after more Chinese companies. The move is actually aimed at undermining Xinjiang's prosperity and stability and containing China's development. The move also tears at international trade rules and market order. We firmly oppose this. We urge the US to immediately stop smearing China and stop meddling in China's internal affairs under the pretext of human rights. We will continue to resolutely safeguard Chinese companies' legitimate and lawful rights and interests.a Kyodo News: According to reports, the Chinese government is monitoring the marine radioactivity of waters under its jurisdiction. When can we expect the data to be released?a Wang Wenbin: Monitoring of the level of radiation in the ocean, emergency measures on aquatic imports from Japan and risk monitoring of nuclear-contamination of aquatic products are all legitimate, reasonable steps to respond to Japan's discharge of nuclear-contaminated water and protect our national interests and public welfare.a The discharge will last decades. Great uncertainty remains as to whether the contaminated water will be up to standard after treatment. Let me stress that the Chinese government has the ability and resolve to do everything necessary to protect our national interests and people's health and protect the sound growth of the oceanic fishing sector. AFP: An individual of a well-known Chinese developer has been placed under police control, according to Bloomberg. Can you confirm the report? And if so, what is the reason? Wang Wenbin: I'm not aware of that. Reuters: Can the foreign ministry provide the dates for the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation? Wang Wenbin: We have announced that China will hold the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing in October. On your specific question, we will release information in due course. CCTV: The sixth China-Arab States Expo and the 2023 Euro-Asia Economic Forum concluded last week in Yinchuan, Ningxia and Xi'an, Shaanxi respectively. Participants contributed insights on Belt and Road cooperation. Can you share more about China's Belt and Road cooperation with Arab and Central Asian countries? Wang Wenbin: This year marks the 10th anniversary of President Xi Jinping's announcement of the Belt and Road Initiative. Over the past decade, China's Belt and Road cooperation with the Arab countries and Central Asian countries has produced solid and tangible progress. Arab countries were historically an important part of the ancient Silk Road, which makes them natural partners for Belt and Road cooperation. Over the past decade, Arab states have widely welcomed and taken an active part in Belt and Road cooperation. China and Arab states have launched over 200 large cooperation projects in such fields as energy and infrastructure, which have benefited nearly 2 billion people. Thanks to Belt and Road cooperation, Egypt now hosts Africa's tallest building in the central business district of its new administrative capital, signifying promising prospect for Egypt Vision 2030. The Saudi Red Sea New City energy storage project, the biggest of its kind globally, is well underway and will provide clean energy to numerous households. The East-West Highway project in Algeria has turned a half-finished project into a 1,216-km highway propelling local prosperity. China's BeiDou Navigation Satellite System provides high-quality services for Arab states, bringing convenience to local people in transportation, precision agriculture, land survey, environmental monitoring and other fields. Central Asia is where the BRI was first announced and a priority region for connectivity cooperation. Over the past decade, under the strategic guidance of President Xi Jinping and the heads of state of five Central Asian countries, China and Central Asian countries have jointly implemented a number of major projects to the benefit of people region-wide. The completion of the China-Kazakhstan Horgos International Border Cooperation Center and the China-Kazakhstan Logistics Base in Lianyungang opened the gateway to the Pacific for Central Asian countries. After Chinese companies finished building the tunnel of the Angren-Pap railway lineathe longest tunnel in Central Asia, local residents no longer had to travel up and down the mountains or go around them via neighboring countries. The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan (CKU) highway has become an important transportation artery that runs smoothly through the region's mountainous terrain. Four-fifths of the China-Europe Railway Express trains run through Central Asia. They are hailed as a "steel caravan" on the Eurasian continent. Last year, total trade between China and Central Asian countries hit a record high of USD 70 billion.a The Belt and Road has become a "belt of development" for China and partner countries and a "road to happiness" for the people. The third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation will provide another opportunity for us to work with Arab and Central Asian countries as well as other partners to further advance Belt and Road cooperation and jointly write a new chapter of benefiting the world through the BRI.a News 1 Korea: You mentioned yesterday that China has not been notified through diplomatic channels by the DPRK on the reopening of its borders. Is there any update on this matter? Wang Wenbin: I shared comments on that yesterday and have nothing else to add.a Kyodo News: Can you tell us the exact dates in October for the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation? Wang Wenbin: We will release information in due course. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Mainland activist jailed in Hong Kong tested crackdown 'red lines' Zeng Yuxuan's sentence for 'sedition' sends a warning message to other mainland Chinese living in the city. By Siyan Cheung for RFA Cantonese 2023.09.27 -- Zeng Yuxuan, a doctoral student from mainland China found in possession of posters depicting the "Pillar of Shame" sculpture commemorating the Tiananmen massacre, was recently handed a six-month jail term under colonial-era sedition laws. Zeng's Sept. 12 sentencing came after she was convicted of conspiring with U.S.-based democracy activist Zhou Fengsuo to "commit acts with seditious intent" ahead of the June 4 massacre anniversary, and has sent shockwaves through the growing community of mainland Chinese who have made Hong Kong their home. Zeng is the first mainland Chinese person to be convicted of sedition under an ongoing crackdown on public dissent that has seen senior journalists, pro-democracy media magnate Jimmy Lai and 47 former lawmakers and democracy activists charged with offenses from "collusion with a foreign power" to "subversion." Since the 2019 protest movement, police have made more than 1,000 arrests under a draconian national security law, with thousands of protest movement supporters also targeted under colonial-era public order and sedition laws. Like many defendants keen to avoid months or even years of pretrial detention with no bail, Zeng pleaded guilty to "attempting to commit or preparing to commit one or more acts with seditious intent." Before her arrest, Zeng had taken part in the "white paper" protests against the stringent restrictions of the zero-COVID policy in November 2022. But the action that prompted her prosecution by the Hong Kong authorities was her public commemoration of the death of Leung Kin-fai, who committed suicide after non-fatally stabbing a police officer outside the Sogo Department Store on July 1, 2021 in an attack described as "terrorism" by police at the time. Not the only one Zeng isn't the only person to be prosecuted for supporting Leung in public. On Sept. 11, four former University of Hong Kong students pleaded guilty to "incitement to wound with intent" after they publicly praised Leung's action, according to Hong Kong court reporting service The Witness. They had earlier been accused of "glorifying terrorism," but the terrorism-related charges were dropped. Kinson Cheung, Charles Kwok, Chris Todorovski and Anthony Yung, who are aged between 21 and 22, were arrested in 2021 after they took part in a student union meeting that passed a motion of sympathy for Leung, a move that was denounced in the pro-China press and by then leader Carrie Lam. Zeng was released on bail following her January arrest, but then rearrested on June 1 after she was found carrying the "Pillar of Shame" posters. In an interview recorded before her second arrest, Zeng told Radio Free Asia that she was inspired by her first glimpse of the 2019 protests, which came when her law lecturer at a mainland Chinese university used a VPN to circumvent the Great Firewall of government censorship and show the class live footage of protesters occupying Hong Kong's Legislative Council chamber on July 1, 2019. She later applied to study in Hong Kong, and started keeping up with political developments there, as well as doing some in-depth reading on overseas websites about the 1989 Tiananmen massacre that ended weeks of student-led democracy protests in Beijing and other major cities. "The outcome was tragic, but there was something quite glorious about the fact that this has now entered into the collective memory of our generation, of several generations -- it's a shared memory," Zeng said. Zeng arrived in Hong Kong as Peng Lifa was staging his explosive banner protest on Beijing's Sitong Bridge, ahead of the party congress. Zeng eagerly embraced the "white paper" movement that followed, she said, adding that she felt a "duty" to protest. "It feels like most people in mainland China don't actually care about [politics or social justice]," she said. "But I still think it's my duty a it's everyone's duty." Fearless at her trial Mainlanders turned out in Hong Kong's Central business district, the working class district of Mong Kok and on the campus of the Chinese University of Hong Kong to hold up blank sheets of A4 in solidarity with "white paper" protesters in mainland Chinese cities. Yet many had their ID cards photographed by police, leading to fears that their participation could lead to repercussions for loved ones back home. By New Year's Day 2023, Zeng had been arrested for taking part in a public commemoration of Leung Kin-fai, and the police in China were already in touch with her parents. "My feeling is that my parents and I are individuals, and independent of each other," Zeng said. "If they target my parents, then the responsibility falls on them, not on my parents." A fellow Hong Kong-based mainlander who gave only the nickname Sandy for fear of reprisals, said Zeng had seemed fearless at her trial, appearing in a sweatshirt with a Winnie-the-Pooh motif, in an apparent sideswipe at ruling Chinese Communist Party leader Xi Jinping, who is said to resemble the fictional bear. "A lot of our friends and classmates in mainland China lack the courage to stand up, but they are grateful to those who do," Sandy said. "It's also heartbreaking, because she didn't have to do this." Another mainlander who once met Zeng as a student in Hong Kong said Zeng's actions had tested the government's vaguely defined "red lines" under the national security crackdown, and that she admires her bravery. She believes Zeng's sentence was handed down to act as a warning to other mainlanders in Hong Kong who might sympathize with the pro-democracy movement. "[It's now clear that] the national security law and the [attempted] police assassination attempt are off-limits," the woman, who gave only the nickname Lily for fear of reprisals, said, adding that the space inside the government's "red lines" appears to be narrowing all the time. "It's pretty scary whether you're a Hong Konger or a mainlander," Lily said. "I didn't think it would give rise to so many criminal charges." Translated by Luisetta Mudie. 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 Setting Sights on a Biden-Xi Meeting, a Softer US Tone on China? By Patsy Widakuswara September 27, 2023 While remaining noncommittal about who will represent China at a coming economic gathering, Beijing is hinting that Chinese President Xi Jinping's attendance a and thus a possible summit with U.S. President Joe Biden a depends on Washington's creating the right environment. The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco in November should promote cooperation rather than provoke confrontation, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Tuesday during a news briefing, in response to a question about Xi's participation. His comments echoed those of other Chinese officials. "To truly realize 'from Bali to San Francisco,' the United States needs to show enough sincerity," the Ministry of State Security said in a post on its WeChat social media page earlier this month. The Bali reference was to the leaders' last meeting on the sidelines of a G20 summit in Indonesia last November. Urging Washington to "create better conditions" for the meeting, Wang repeated his criticism of "democracy versus autocracy." The term is a signature phrase that Biden has often used, especially in the first two years of his term, to describe what he sees as the defining struggle of our times. Beijing sees it as Washington imposing its values on others. As American and Chinese officials continue laying the groundwork for a potential Biden-Xi meeting, Washington appears to be working toward such conditions, including by toning down language following months of harsh public comments between the two capitals. The overarching approach has always been to minimize rhetoric that would veer the relationship toward conflict, a senior administration official told VOA Tuesday. However, the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, as is the norm when discussing national security strategy, said there has been no "downshift in tone" in recent weeks and "no strategic conversations to that effect" within the administration. Biden himself has struck a more conciliatory tone. In his address to the United Nations General Assembly in New York last week, the president underscored his desire to responsibly manage competition and avoid conflict, reiterating the message that his administration is "for de-risking, not decoupling with China." In a visit to Hanoi earlier this month, even as he upgraded bilateral relations with Vietnam a a communist country in Beijing's backyard a Biden repeatedly declared that his efforts to strengthen ties with countries in the region are not designed to "contain" China. Such messaging is needed to bring down the temperature following months of harsh exchanges. During a campaign fundraiser in June, Biden called Xi a dictator out of touch in decision-making and dismissed China as having "real economic difficulties." Weeks later, he described the country as "a ticking time bomb." The heated rhetoric added to tensions already elevated from an incident in early February, when the U.S. military shot down a Chinese balloon carrying electronic equipment. Chinese officials deny the aircraft, which had traveled from Alaska to South Carolina, was used for spying. The two powers have navigated turbulent years as they have been locked in increasingly intense geopolitical rivalry, including in trade and technology. Washington slams China for its "economic coercion" and military assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific, while Beijing criticizes what it calls "Western hegemony." The APEC meeting is widely seen as an opportunity for the two leaders to stabilize ties. But many irritants are still unresolved, including the exclusion of the leader of Hong Kong, an APEC member. John Lee, chief executive of the Chinese territory, has been banned from entering the U.S. since 2020 for his role in enforcing a national security law that has targeted pro-democracy activists. More positive tone Bonnie S. Glaser, managing director of the Indo-Pacific program at the German Marshall Fund of the United States, noted a change in attitude on both sides. "In my conversations about U.S.-China relations with Chinese scholars, I detect a more positive tone and expressions of interest in seizing the opportunity to stabilize the bilateral relationship," she told VOA. Whether or not Xi attends, Wang Yi said that China is willing to "play a constructive role" in the success of this year's event involving the 21 Pacific Rim member economies. He gave no guarantee that Xi would attend. Earlier this month, with no official explanation, Xi skipped the G20 summit of the world's largest economies, held in New Delhi. Xi "has his hands full," Biden commented on his counterpart's absence. "He has overwhelming unemployment with his youth. One of the major economic tenets of his plan isn't working at all right now," Biden said during a news conference in response to VOA's question on why he has not met with Xi since Bali. "Nobody likes having celebrated international meetings if you don't know what you want at the meeting, if you don't have a game plan," Biden added. "He may have a game plan; he just hasn't shared it with me." Beijing's reluctance Biden was referring to Beijing's reluctance to confirm the San Francisco meeting, said Yun Sun, co-director of the East Asia Program and director of the China Program at the Stimson Center. "The Chinese are not yet sure what they can get out of the meeting, and also what concessions they can get ahead of the meeting, which is also important for them," she told VOA. The White House has not provided further details but has stepped up bilateral engagements. In mid-September, national security adviser Jake Sullivan held a two-day meeting with Wang, part of ongoing efforts to "maintain open lines of communication." Washington and Beijing have also created working groups, to be overseen by U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and her Chinese counterpart Vice Premier He Lifeng, to promote healthier economic competition. Beijing, which has also been more restrained in its U.S. rhetoric, said Yellen's recent visit had brought "positive expectations for bilateral relations." Anita Powell and Fang Bing contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese top diplomat Wang Yi calls on Hungary to promote EU's more proactive, open policy towards China Global Times By Global Times Published: Sep 28, 2023 02:25 AM Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and China's Foreign Minister, held a phone conversation with Hungarian Foreign Minister PAter SzijjArtA on Wednesday, during which the Chinese top diplomat expressed hope that Hungary could continue to push the European Union (EU) to adopt more proactive and open policy towards cooperation with China. Wang said that Hungary is the first European country to sign the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation document with China, and the fruitful results of China-Hungary cooperation in building the BRI have set a positive example for a new type of international relations. China welcomes Hungary's participation in the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF), and is willing to take this opportunity to strengthen mutual trust and friendship with Hungary, and to formulate new strategic plans and inject new strong momentum into the next phase of bilateral relations, Wang noted. Wang added that the Chinese side is willing to work together with Hungary to construct the Hungary-Serbia railway project and jointly create a model of pragmatic cooperation between the two countries. The EU's anti-subsidy investigation against Chinese electric vehicles violates the fundamental principles of international trade and could potentially disrupt the global automotive industry supply chain, said Wang, noting that China insists on pursuing a green, low-carbon, and sustainable development path, which is fully aligned with the development direction of the EU. Wang stressed that China and Europe are partners, not rivals. The improvement of the manufacturing industry relies on fair competition, not protectionism. China hopes Hungary will continue to promote EU's more proactive and open policy towards cooperation with China, and work together with China to uphold true multilateralism and the international system with the United Nations at its core, as well as to promote the healthy and stable development of China-Europe relations, said Wang. SzijjArtA said that Hungary and China have achieved important results in jointly building the BRI, from which Hungary has benefited a lot. Hungary will actively participate in the third BRF, and to continue deepening the cooperation. The country will also steadfastly promote the construction of the Hungary-Serbia railway project and further advance bilateral relations. Hungary strongly opposes the so-called "decoupling" from China and hopes for close cooperation between Europe and China, said SzijjArtA, noting that Hungary does not support any measures taken by the EU that are detrimental to fair competition and cooperation. Hungary appreciates China's efforts to achieve peace in Europe and hopes that China will continue to play an active role in this regard, SzijjArtA added. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Koreas trade barbs at UN as the North threatens nuclear war S Korea says the North's assertions are 'illogical' and exactly why drills with the US are needed. By Lee Jeong-Ho for RFA 2023.09.26 -- The two Koreas traded barbs at the United Nations General Assembly Tuesday, with the North threatening a potential nuclear catastrophe in the Korean Peninsula and the South asserting that its military exercises with the U.S. will continue to take place. North Korea's ambassador to the U.N., Kim Song, initiated the verbal attack as he declared that the Korean Peninsula is at an imminent risk of nuclear war. The ambassador vowed to further amplify his country's self-defense capabilities in light of what he described as an escalation of reckless military adventurism of "hostile forces." "The DPRK is urgently required to further speed up the advancing of its self-defense capabilities to defend itself impregnably," the North Korean diplomat said, referring to the North's formal name. "The more the reckless military moves and provocations of the hostile forces are intensified threatening the sovereignty and security interests of our state, the more our endeavors to enhance national defense capabilities would increase in direct proportion." Kim Song described the Korean Peninsula as being in "a state of imminent danger of nuclear war at any moment," arguing that the U.S. and its "colony" South Korea were solely responsible for the escalation of the regional tension. The ambassador also lambasted the U.S.- South Korea-Japan security cooperation, which he equated with an Asian version of NATO that has ushered in a "new Cold War" in Northeast Asia. Kim Song's attack incited a strong and immediate rebuttal from the South Korean Deputy Permanent Representative to the U.N., Kim Sang-jin, who dismissed the North's assertions as "illogical." "North Korea is the only country to conduct a nuclear test in the 21st century, and it has been also escalating tensions by testing an intercontinental ballistic missile [ICBM] this year," the South Korean representative said. "Does anyone find credibility in North Korea's accusations that South Korea, a fully democratized, economically prosperous nation adhering to the rule of law, is attempting to start a nuclear war in collusion with the United States?" The South Korean diplomat also defended his country's military exercises with the U.S., suggesting that they will continue to take place, regardless of Pyongyang's protest. "The joint military exercises between the U.S. and South Korea are long-standing and are conducted with defensive intentions." The U.S. and South Korea initiated their three-day joint naval exercises in the waters that divide the Koreas and Japan on Monday, encompassing anti-submarine warfare and naval firing drills. The exercise is to bolster joint operational capabilities and interoperability amid the rising nuclear and missile threats emanating from North Korea, according to a South Korea Navy statement. The threats have been accentuated by North Korea's recent launch of a purported space launch vehicle and the introduction of a new submarine. North Korea labels such joint drills as "invasion practices," viewing it as a significant threat to its regime's security. Edited by Elaine Chan and Mike Firn. 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 Security Council's 'west-led irrational structure' must be reformed, DPRK tells UN 26 September 2023 - The "west-led irrational structure" of the UN Security Council must be reformed to prevent the "high-handedness and arbitrariness" of forces within the body, including the United States, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) told the General Assembly on Tuesday. To that end, representation of developing countries that make up the absolute majority of United Nations, must be expanded and strengthened, said Kim Song, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of DPRK to the UN. "The issue to be addressed before anything else in the UN activities is to ensure that the Security Council is not allowed to be used as an instrument of specific forces for pursuing their geopolitical purposes, but strictly observes the principles of objectivity, impartiality and equity, befitting its heavy responsibility for maintenance of international peace and security," he stressed. 'Nothing more than an insult' Mr. Kim cited recent Council meetings, convened to debate as separate agenda items "the legitimate right" to launch a satellite and "human rights issues" of the country. It is "nothing more than an insult" to the spirit of the UN Charter that the Security Council put on table "the just and independent right" of a sovereign State and groundlessly took issue with human rights situation of an individual country, he said. "The Security Council should put an end to the acts of discrediting sovereign States, interfering in their domestic affairs and fomenting confrontation and division by tabling issues detrimental to its mission and mandate," he added. Main purposes of the UN Mr. Kim also emphasized that peace, prosperity, progress and development were the main purposes of the UN and they remain "an invariable desire of humankind as ever". He noted the end of COVID-19 global public health emergency thanks to the joint efforts of the international community, although the socio-political instability incurred by the pandemic remains. In addition, abnormal climate events such as El NiAo caused a myriad of natural disasters, leading to enormous human and material losses, reminding that climate change is a pressing common task "to which we should no longer remain indifferent." "In order for humanity to successfully achieve the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development braving through all these crises and challenges, we should seek correct ways and means to solve the problems while defending multilateralism around the UN and promoting unity and cooperation among countries on the basis of the international law and fundamental principles governing the international relations," he stressed. US and ROK both 'hysterical' Making matters worse, some UN Member States "are instigating confrontation" among countries in pursuance of hegemony and self-profits. For example, he said the United States made 2023 an "extremely dangerous year...trying to provoke a nuclear war. He denounced leaders from both the US and Republic of Korea for "hysterical remarks of confrontation remarks of confrontation such as 'end of the regime' and 'occupation of Pyongyang' in flagrant violation of the principles and purposes of the UN Charter. He also said Washington was trying to create "the Asian version of NATO," the military alliance that includes European nations and the United States and Canada. "The DPRK remains steadfast and unchanged in its determination to firmly defend the national sovereignty, security interests and well-being of the people against the hostile threats from outside," he said, adding that "the US and its following forces should look back on the consequences of their hostilities committed ... and make the right choice judging what the end result would be." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address September 27, 2023 By Joseph Clark , DOD News Soldier Returned to U.S. Custody After Crossing Into North Korea Army Pvt. Travis T. King has been released to U.S. custody after a multiweek diplomatic effort to secure his return from North Korea, senior U.S. officials announced today. King, who crossed into North Korea on July 18, was received by U.S. officials after being transferred to China. King's return was facilitated with the help of the Swedish government. "U.S. officials have secured the return of [Army] Pvt. Travis King from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea," Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said using formal name for North Korea. "We appreciate the hard work of personnel in the Army, United States Forces Korea, and across the Department of Defense, along with our State Department colleagues, to bring Pvt. King back to the United States, and we thank the governments of Sweden and the People's Republic of China for their assistance," he said. National Security Council officials, who announced King's release as he was being transferred from China to a U.S. base, said the soldier would receive a full evaluation to address any medical or emotional concerns before being reunited with his family. The transfer culminates weeks of effort across multiple U.S. government agencies to secure his release. That effort included outreach to North Korea through multiple channels, including efforts to "ascertain his welfare and to try to secure his safe return home," a U.S. official said. Sweden served as the primary interlocutor between the U.S. and North Korea in securing King's release. "We are grateful to the Swedish government for its diplomatic role in serving as the protective power for the United States in [North Korea] and to the government of the People's Republic of China for its assistance in facilitating the safe transit of Pvt. King," the official said. The U.S. made no concessions to North Korea to secure King's release, according to the officials. King, a cavalry scout stationed in South Korea, crossed into North Korea after joining a tour group of the joint security area at the Demilitarized Zone in Panmunjom, South Korea. He was later identified as AWOL by the U.S. government. Before crossing the border, King had faced disciplinary action while stationed in South Korea and had served time in a correctional facility. At the time of his crossing, he was scheduled to fly to the U.S. to face additional administrative action by the U.S. Army. Officials said King's administrative status would be addressed following his successful reintegration. "Our focus within the military at this point is really caring for Pvt. King and his family," a senior official said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address KCNA Report on Final Findings of Investigation into American Solider Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Pyongyang, September 27 (KCNA) -- The investigation into Travis King, a soldier of the U.S. Army who was detained after illegally intruding into the territory of the DPRK in the joint security area of Panmunjom on July 18, has been finished. According to the investigation by a relevant organ of the DPRK, Travis King confessed that he illegally intruded into the territory of the DPRK as he harbored ill feeling against inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination within the U.S. army and was disillusioned about the unequal U.S. society. The relevant organ of the DPRK decided to expel Travis King, a soldier of the U.S. Army who illegally intruded into the territory of the DPRK, under the law of the Republic. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US soldier released by N Korea is on way home Travis King's release will have little impact on North Korea-US relations or inter-Korean ties, says expert. By Lee Jeong-Ho and Alex Willemyns for RFA 2023.09.27 -- Travis King, the American soldier who suddenly sprinted into North Korea from a border area in South Korea, is on his way home and "appears to be in good health and spirits," U.S. officials said on Wednesday. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said King was met on China's border with North Korea by U.S. Ambassador Nicholas Burns after being expelled by Pyongyang after two months in the country. He was then transferred to the Osan Air Force base in South Korea. King, who fled into North Korea on July 18, was en route back to the United States on Wednesday afternoon, Miller said. He thanked Sweden, which represents the United States in Pyongyang, for their assistance in negotiating King's release with the North Koreans. "We thank Sweden and the People's Republic of China for their assistance in facilitating that transfer," he said. "He is now on his way to the United States and we expect him to arrive in the coming hours." Miller declined to comment on any possible punishment for King. King was on a civilian tour of the Joint Security Area between North and South Korea in Panmunjom when he suddenly ran into North Korea. Another person on the tour told CBS News at the time that he said a "loud 'ha ha ha'" and then ran "between some buildings." Prior to the official announcement of King's release by Pyongyang on Wednesday, White House officials speaking on condition of anonymity said no concessions were made to Pyongyang to secure his release. Beijing played "a very constructive role" in allowing his passage into China, one of the officials said, before noting China did not mediate any negotiations between Washington and Pyongyang. Another official said King "appears to be in good health and good spirits" and "was very happy to be on his way home," but declined to say whether King explained why he had crossed into North Korea. "He is very much looking forward to being reunited with his family," they said. "That is the sentiment that is pervading all else right now." A spokesperson for Travis King's mother, Claudine Gates, released a statement thanking the U.S. Army for getting her son back, but said the family did not plan to do any media interviews in the near future. "Ms Gates will be forever grateful to the United States Army and all its interagency partners for a job well done," the spokesperson said. Expelled North Korea had earlier Wednesday announced King's expulsion. "The relevant organs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea have decided to deport U.S. soldier Travis King in accordance with the laws for illegally entering the territory of the republic," North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency said late Wednesday. "The investigation into U.S. soldier Travis King has been concluded," KCNA continued, claiming that mistreatment he received from the United States was his primary motive for crossing the border. "Travis King confessed that he illegally entered the territory of the DPRK due to inhuman treatment in the U.S. military, antipathy to racism, and disillusionment with the unequal U.S. society," it said. The authenticity of the statements by King - the first American held in nearly five years - couldn't be independently confirmed. The announcement, made at 6 a.m. EST, appeared to signal Pyongyang had trouble exploiting their capture of the American citizen, said Yang Moo-jin, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul who had advised the South Korean government. "If the decision was unilateral, it suggests that North Korea found King to be of no use," Yang said. "As a U.S. soldier facing disciplinary action and fleeing to North Korea, King presented a challenging figure for North Korea to leverage for propaganda purposes." "Given the current tense relations between the U.S. and North Korea, a corresponding deal seems improbable," he added. "Consequently, the influence on existing U.S.-North Korea, or inter-Korean relations appears to be minimal." King was the sole known U.S. national detained in North Korea, and his case represents the first known detention of a U.S. citizen since that of Bruce Byron Lowrance in November 2018. The 23-year-old Private King trespassed into North Korean land via the inter-Korean Joint Security Area in Panmunjom on July 18. Pyongyang later announced that the U.S. soldier has been under investigation since his detention. Edited by Elaine Chan and Taejun Kang. 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 North Korea orders diplomatic staff to donate $100 each for new subs Kim Jong Un toured Russian military facilities this month and came away with submarine envy. By Kim Jieun for RFA Korean 2023.09.27 -- Kim Jong Un has submarine envy, so every North Korean attached to diplomatic missions abroad has been ordered to "donate" US$100 to a new fund that will go toward the construction of "cutting-edge" submarines and other warships, sources in China told Radio Free Asia. The donation mandate was the first order of business after Kim returned from his summit in Russia with President Vladimir Putin, where the two countries agreed to strengthen ties. During that trip, Kim toured military facilities including a naval base for Russia's Pacific Fleet and was "shocked" by Moscow's high-tech weaponry, especially submarines, the sources told RFA. "Yesterday, Pyongyang sent an order to the North Korean Embassy here in China to raise the necessary funds to build new submarines and warships," a source in Beijing who is familiar with the situation, told RFA Korean Sept. 23 on condition of anonymity for security reasons. "The instructions state that the members of all overseas diplomatic missions must donate $100 each before Party Foundation Day on Oct. 10," he said, adding that the ambassador in Beijing had sent the same order to North Korean consulates in Shenyang and Dandong. Personnel working in overseas companies are also considered part of the mission. "The order states that the construction of new warships and submarines is a top priority that can no longer be postponed, considering the current situation," the source said. "The members at the embassy all gave $100 as soon as they received the instructions. Most of them seem to understand that the leader gave this order after being quite shocked by Russia's advanced weapons." Not cheap Even though the stated purpose is to raise money for warships and submarines, the source said that the order is also a test of loyalty, and likely that future instructions will continue to ask for funding. "Some of the people responded to the order by saying 'New submarines and warships are high-tech, and require expensive materials and equipment. They are not children's toys. I don't understand how it will be possible to build them by saving just $100 per person.'" Indeed, submarines are not cheap, and such donations would seem to hardly make a dent in the overall cost. Construction costs for the type of nuclear-powered submarine North Korea could build, such as the French-designed Barracuda-class, run about $1.19 billion each. When the orders reached the consulates in the northeastern cities of Shenyang and Dandong and the former British colony Hong Kong, the officials there "looked dejected," a source in Shenyang told RFA on condition of anonymity for personal safety. Companies there are used to getting orders to donate a specific amount of money from their revenue, but this order appealed to them to "exhibit a high level of loyalty in response to the Marshall's instructions to build submarines and new warships," the Shenyang source said. In official communications, Kim is often referred to by his military rank. Companies did not force the workers to donate, he said. Instead, they anticipate that some of the workers will demonstrate their loyalty with a large donation, and then the pressure will be on for the rest of the workers to better or match that amount. "The workers could not hide their sense of dejection at the instructions," the Shenyang source said. "The workers are saying, 'We have been tightening our belts to develop nuclear weapons for decades as we were preparing for war. Now we are building new submarines and warships.'" "It was foolish of us to expect that [the government] would finally address the country's food problems." 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 American Soldier Travis King in US Custody After Fleeing to North Korea By Carla Babb September 27, 2023 The Pentagon says an American soldier who illegally crossed into North Korea in July is now in U.S. custody. A senior Biden administration official told reporters that King was transferred out of the DPRK and crossed the border to China with the help of the government of Sweden. The official said the U.S. received him in China and transferred him home. DPRK is an acronym for North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. "We thank the government of Sweden for its diplomatic role serving as the protecting power for the United States in the DPRK and the government of the People's Republic of China for its assistance in facilitating the transit of Private King," National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said in a statement Wednesday. Pentagon Press Secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder praised "the hard work of personnel in the Army, United States Forces Korea, and across the Department of Defense to bring Private King home." There were no concessions given to North Korea for this exchange, a senior administration official told VOA during a briefing to reporters Wednesday. "We're going to focus for the next several weeks for as long as it takes to get private King on good a on solid footing. And then we'll address any administrative actions that may follow after the reintegration process," the official said. A statement Wednesday from a representative of Claudine Gates, King's mother, said, "Ms. Gates will be forever grateful to the United States Army and all its interagency partners for a job well done." Earlier Wednesday, North Korea said it was expelling King after wrapping up its final investigation of him. He was taken by North Korean soldiers in July after dashing through the Koreas' heavily militarized border. King was facing pending administrative separation from the U.S. Army when he returned to his base in Fort Bliss, Texas, after spending time in a South Korean jail on assault charges. He was about to board a plane to the United States on July 17 when he snuck out of the airport and made it onto a civilian tour of the border complex between North and South Korea one day later. King was taken by North Korean soldiers on duty at the Joint Security Area, KCNA reported, when the plain-clothed soldier "deliberately intruded into the area of the DPRK side between the room for the DPRK-U.S. military contacts and the restroom of security officers along the Military Demarcation Line." The North's official news agency, KCNA, said Wednesday that King had harbored ill feelings over inhumane treatment and racial discrimination within the U.S. army. It added that North Korea's interim findings were that King wanted refuge in North Korea or elsewhere because of that same reason. The Military Demarcation Line is the official border separating the two Koreas, put in place by an armistice that paused the 1950-1953 Korean War, which remains without a formal end and peace treaty. VOA White House correspondent Patsy Widakuswara and Eunice Kim in Seoul contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Background Press Call by Senior Administration and Military Officials on the Return of Private King from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea September 27, 2023 9:30 A.M. EDT MODERATOR: All right, we're going to go ahead and get started here. Thank you so much for your patience. This is [moderator]. So, good morning. I've got good news to share this morning, attributable to a "U.S. official." I can immediately confirm that Private Travis King is in U.S. custody. We are still going to proceed with this call as planned. So, from this point out, the remainder of the call will be held under strict embargo until we're able to offer confirmation that the subject of the call has arrived at a military installation. Just again, off the record: This is ongoing, so, we're going to give you all a little bit more insight into some of the operational details, but those need to be held under a strict embargo for operational security reasons. For planning purposes only, we believe that confirmation could come as soon as 10:30 a.m. ET today. This call is attributable to "senior administration officials." For awareness but not for reporting, joining us on the call today is [senior administration official], [senior military official], and [senior administration official]. And with that, I'm going to hand it over to my colleague, [senior administration official], to share a few more details about what's taking place this morning. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: [Moderator], thank you so much. And thanks to you all for joining this morning. This is [senior administration official]. We are very pleased to announce this morning, although events are still ongoing, that the U.S. government has successfully facilitated Private Travis King's departure from the DPRK. His transfer culminates a months-long effort involving multiple U.S. government agencies, undertaken out of concern for Private King's well-being and a desire to reunite him with his family. For the last many weeks, the U.S. government has been reaching out to the DPRK through multiple channels to ascertain his welfare and to try to secure his safe return home. That includes outreach at the United Nations and through our United Nations Command. It also includes ongoing work with the government of Sweden in its status as the protecting power of the United States and other countries who have diplomatic relations with the DPRK. We have been in communication with Private King's family throughout this process. I'm pleased to share this morning that Private King appears to be in good health and good spirits as he makes his way home. We are grateful to the Swedish government for its diplomatic role in serving as the protecting power for the United States in the DPRK and to the government of the People's Republic of China for its assistance in facilitating the safe transit of Private King. I'll stop there for the moment, and I'll hand over to my colleague, [senior administration official], for some additional details on the diplomacy we conducted in the lead-up to today's events. I think we're having trouble hearing you. Could you unmute yourself? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Hello. Hi. MODERATOR: Loud and clear. Loud and clear. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Great. Thank you. This is [senior administration official]. And thanks to, [senior administration official], and thanks to all of you for joining. We have been engaged in intense diplomacy since Private King entered the DPRK. And we have a we, in the State Department, have made every effort and used every available diplomatic channel to urge the DPRK to release Private King and allow him to return home. We have been in close touch with Sweden, in its status as the protecting power, engaging very much on a near-daily basis to make sure that a that everything went smoothly. And we've also been working with other countries with diplomatic relations with the DPRK. And we're really grateful for the partnership that we've had with our DOD and NSC counterparts. And so, we have been a we're looking forward to getting Travis King home. And we've been working a State Department has also been working with Army and [senior military official's] team to make sure the family has been aware of what has been going on. So, let me stop there and turn it over to [senior military official]. SENIOR MILITARY OFFICIAL: Thank you. Good morning. Can you hear me? MODERATOR: Yes. SENIOR MILITARY OFFICIAL: Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. I would really like to just highlight that this was truly an extraordinary interagency effort and really an incredible example of teamwork, detailed planning and rehearsals, and flawless conduct of what I would say is a truly complex operation. And we are just incredibly happy to have Private King on his way home. And I'm standing by to answer any of your questions. Q Sorry about that a unmuting issue. You mentioned that China was helpful in assisting and facilitating the safe transit. Did China have any other role in mediating? And can you speak to what other countries with diplomatic relations with the DPRK that were involved? And finally, can you offer any insight on to why Private King decided to enter North Korea? Thank you. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: I'll take that. You know, we a we've been a working primarily with Sweden in its role as the protecting power for the United States. And the PRC played a very constructive role in facilitating his transfer out of a of the PRC a of China. And on a and so, just a I'll leave it at that. And a and we're, as [senior military official] said a that we're very happy to have him home. Q Thank you. Thanks for taking my question. [Senior administration official], I wonder if you can give some clarity in terms of the kinds of concessions. Were there any kinds of concessions that were given to DPRK? And if you know anything about what will happen next to Private Travis, in terms of, you know, his status with the military, if he's still being declared AWOL, and what happens next with him? Thank you. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Thanks very much. In terms of the question on any concessions that may have been given, the answer is simple: There were none. Full stop. On the question of next steps, our focus right now is on Private King's health and ensuring that he receives all appropriate support before reuniting with his family. I'll pass to the [senior administration official] in just a moment for anything that he might like to add to that. But before I do, I just want to add some additional detail to Aamer's previous question on the role of the PRC. I do want to acknowledge a we want to acknowledge and be clear that Private King was transferred out of the DPRK across the DPRK's border with the PRC. The PRC played a role in facilitating that transfer but did not play another mediating role in these events. I'll stop there and pass it to [senior military official]. SENIOR MILITARY OFFICIAL: Yeah, our focus within the military at this point is really caring for Private King and his family. And when he arrives on U.S. soil, he will be evaluated by some very talented, experienced a an experienced team that are going to guide him through a reintegration process. They'll address any medical and emotional concerns and ensure we get him in a good place to reunite with his family. As far as anything after that, again, our focus right now is caring for him and his family. And we'll work through all those administrative-status questions following the completion of his reintegration. Q Hey. Thanks for taking the question. So, wanted to see if you all got any additional insight into North Korea and their willingness to do business, in a sense, with the United States as a result of this, and if there is a prospect for any further talks with a with them specifically? And then if you could just confirm if there is the possibility of a court martial at the end of this for Private King. Thanks. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Hi, Trevor. This is [senior administration official]. I'm happy to take the first part of your question. The United States government remains very open to the possibility of diplomacy with the DPRK. And, again, very much appreciate the fact that we have this good news to share today. This incident, to our minds, demonstrate that keeping lines of communication open even when ties are strained is a really important thing to do and can deliver results. We, again, stand by, ready for any further diplomacy that might be possible. But for today, we are just focused on Private King's safe return to the United States. I'll pass back to [senior military official] once more to see if there's anything he wants to add to this question. SENIOR MILITARY OFFICIAL: Just to reinforce my previous comment: Again, we're going to focus, for the next several weeks or as long as it takes, to get Private King on good a on solid footing. And then we'll address any administrative actions that may follow after the reintegration process. Thank you. MODERATOR: Great. Our next question will go to Jeremy with CNN. Q Hey, guys, thanks so much for doing this a MODERATOR: Let me try that again and see if we can get Jeremy back. Just one moment. Q Hey, do you have me now? MODERATOR: We've got you. Q Okay, great. So, first of all, in terms of North Korea and their decision-making here: Do you have any sense of why they chose to release Private King, you know, within just a couple of months and not choose to use him as a bargaining chip? Do you have a sense of whether Travis King wanted to return to the U.S. or whether he sought to remain in North Korea at any point? And then, lastly, if you could just kind of take us through a tick-tock of, you know, when it became clear that Private King would be released, when the President was notified, et cetera. Thank you. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: I can a hey, thanks for that. This is [senior administration official]. As I said, we a you know, we've been very much engaged in intense diplomacy and in working with our colleagues across the globe, especially in a at Embassy Beijing. And so, we wanted to a you know, on the a you know, I'll let the DPRK speak to a speak for themselves. But we did learn via Sweden that the DPRK wanted to release Travis King earlier this month, and so we've been working very intensely since then. And they a and Sweden has played a real a really vital role. I won't go into the tick-tock or any details of the way we were working this. But as you can imagine, in the a (inaudible) in the depth of the interagency cooperation that needed to be happening and across the a and across the globe or with the region to make sure that all of this went smoothly. And, you know, we're absolutely grateful that a for the PRC for facilitating his release and for the DPRK for releasing him and a and absolutely to Sweden for their efforts to help us in this effort. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Jeremy, this is [senior administration official]. I'll just add to that that we can confirm that Private King was very happy to be on his way home. You know, that has been quite clear as we have resumed our contact with him. And he is very much looking forward to being reunited with his family. That is the sentiment that is pervading all else right now and is being, you know, reported by all of our diplomats. You know, again, as [senior administration official] said, not going to get into the specific tick-tock. But I can confirm that as it became clear that our diplomacy was being reciprocated and that we might have an opportunity to return Travis King, all of our leadership across departments and agencies have been closely briefed and following events as they unfold. And, of course, that includes the President of the United States, who has been following this issue closely. Q And has the President spoken with Private King or his family? Or does he intend to? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: The a we were able to connect with the family. And a you know, and the family was able to speak with Travis King. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: And, Jeremy, I don't have anything for you on the President's plans at this time. Thanks. Q Thank you. Q Hey there. Can you hear me? MODERATOR: Loud and clear. Q Okay. So, two things. One, [moderator], if you could a I'm a little confused about the embargo situation and what is on the a what is on the record, so a MODERATOR: Yep. Can immediately confirm, attributable to a "U.S. official," that he's in U.S. custody. The rest of this is on background, attributable to "senior administration officials" and needs to be held for oper- a operational security reasons under an embargo until he's, you know, essentially wheels down at a military installation. So a Q And at a and you will let us know when that is, or a MODERATOR: And I think it will be, you know, as this a as this call ticks on, I think it will be sooner rather than later that you'll be hearing from me again. Q Okay. And then my a my question is: Several of the speakers today have talked about a "super complex operation," and that a and I think somebody said, "You could imagine how complicated this all was." I'm bad at imagining things, and I don't think we can ask our readers to imagine things. Is there any detail that you guys can provide about a about, sort of, how he was transferred, where he a I mean, since a since this is not going to be released until he's on a at a U.S. military base, I don't a I don't understand why we can't get a little bit more detail about, kind of, how this all went down. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Michael, this is [senior administration official]. I'm happy to put sort of a finer point on some of the detail that I have already shared. But, again, we are still in the process of making diplomatic contacts with other parties, as well as ensuring the operational security of Private King and the folks who are undertaking this operation. So, you know, we are going to go about as far as we can, under a under those constraints. As I have already mentioned, the private was tran- a was transferred out of the DPRK, across the border to China with the help of the government of Sweden. The United States has been able to receive him in China and is now in the process of transferring him home. The operational complexity that we're pointing to here, obviously, includes a few factors. It includes the fact that the Swedish government transited into the DPRK. It includes the fact that we had to, you know, be ready to receive him in the PRC. And it includes the fact that all of these pieces had to come together quickly and with the greatest concern for Private King's care and ensuring his safe and healthy transit home. So, again, that's about all we can offer in terms of detail today, but I think everyone on the call appreciates that this is an unusual set of circumstances and, again, that the operational coordination that was required from our diplomats, from the members of our military, and from the partners with whom we worked on this operation was significant and extraordinary. Q (Referring to the audio connection.) Sorry, problems there. You spoke to the issue a little bit, but I was just going to kind of expand a little bit on a my question is like a so, the role of the Chinese and the role of the Swedish here. Swedes went into DPRK to help facilitate and then transmit this guy into China and then a where you guys are now receiving him. Is there anything else you can expand upon, like what the role of the Swedes versus the Chinese were in, like, making this all happen? The Swedes, I assume, were the chief interlocutor here? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Thanks. The Swedish were a the Swedish play an important role. They're our protecting power, and they have been our primary interlocutor and are a in a in helping us get Private King out. The PRC helped to facilitate the transfer but, as [senior administration official] noted, did not mediate by any means. And we are extremely grateful for the government a to the government of Sweden for facilitating that. As I mentioned, we learned about the DPRK wanting to expel Travis a Private King through Sweden. And since then, State Department has been connecting with Sweden on a very regular basis, working out all of these details, and working with a across the interagency, across multiple departments and agencies to make sure that all of the small pieces and the large pieces came together. And, of course, we're very grateful for our colleagues at Embassy Beijing who helped to facilitate this as well and liaising with the Chinese government to make sure that everyone was squared away and we were all aligned on the outcomes that we wanted. MODERATOR: All right. And with that, we'll conclude the call. We will provide notification when the operation is successfully completed and the embargo is lifted. Thank you all for your time. 9:51 A.M. EDT NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 9th Session of 14th SPA of DPRK Held Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Pyongyang, September 28 (KCNA) -- The 9th Session of the 14th Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) of the DPRK took place at the Mansudae Assembly Hall on September 26 and 27. The session was convened at a time when all the people across the country are further accelerating the struggle to glorify this significant year as a year of great turn and change to be remarkably recorded in the development course of the DPRK by further promoting the great national pride and patriotic enthusiasm of having splendidly celebrated the 75th founding anniversary of our powerful and dignified state as a great revolutionary event to be specially etched in history. Present there were the deputies to the SPA, and as observers officials concerned in Pyongyang and local areas including those of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK), the SPA Standing Committee, the Cabinet, armed forces and law enforcement organs and financial sector. Taking the platform were Kim Tok Hun, member of the Presidium of the Political Bureau of the WPK Central Committee, vice-president of the State Affairs Commission of the DPRK and premier of the Cabinet, Choe Ryong Hae, member of the Presidium of the Political Bureau of the WPK Central Committee, first vice-president of the State Affairs Commission of the DPRK and chairman of the SPA Standing Committee, Ri Pyong Chol, member of the Presidium of the Political Bureau and secretary of the C.C., WPK, and other senior officials of the Party, the government and the military, the chairman and vice-chairpersons of the SPA, members of the State Affairs Commission and vice-chairmen, the secretary general and members of the SPA Standing Committee. The session decided its agenda items: First, on amending and supplementing some contents of the Socialist Constitution of the DPRK Second, on deliberating and adopting the law of the DPRK on ensuring the rights of the disabled Third, on deliberating and adopting the law of the DPRK on irrigation Fourth, on deliberating and adopting the law of the DPRK on public servants Fifth, on reviewing the enforcement of the law of the DPRK on financial sector Sixth, on naming the National Aerospace Development Administration of the DPRK the National Aerospace Technology General Bureau of the DPRK Seventh, on the organizational matter 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, attended the discussion of the first agenda item as an observer. When the respected Comrade Kim Jong Un appeared at the venue of the session, all the participants broke into enthusiastic cheers, looking up to him, the symbol of all victories and glory of our Party, state and people and representative of the great dignity who opened up a new turning point of building an independent and self-defensive state and bolstering up the national defence capabilities and is leading confidently the long-term struggle for the overall development of Korean-style socialism to dynamic success. Pak In Chol, chairman of the SPA, presided over the session. As the session was declared open, the national anthem of the DPRK was played. Deputy Choe Ryong Hae, chairman of the SPA Standing Committee, made a report on the first agenda item. The reporter said that the SPA is to discuss and adopt the amendment to the Constitution in order to stipulate the position of the nuclear force in the national defence and the principle of state activities on the building of the nuclear force in the Socialist Constitution, the basic law of the Republic and the great political charter for building a powerful socialist country. The revolutionary development of the nuclear force of the Republic and the signal successes in its economic and cultural fields and remarkable changes in the international arena, which have been witnessed over the past one year since the promulgation of the law on the state's policy on the nuclear force at the historic 7th Session of the 14th Supreme People's Assembly, clearly proved the validity and vitality of the codification of the state's policy on the nuclear force, he said. He referred to the weighty significance of fixing the principle of state activities on the building of modern nuclear force and the mission of the armed forces of the DPRK for the times in the Socialist Constitution on the basis of the successful codification of the state's policy on the nuclear force. Saying that reflected in the draft amendment and supplement are the contents that the DPRK, a responsible nuclear weapons state, develops highly nuclear weapons to ensure the rights to existence and development of the country, deter war and defend peace and stability in the region and the rest of the world, and that the mission of the armed forces of the Republic is to defend the national sovereignty and territorial integrity and the rights and interests of the people, protect the socialist system and the gains of the revolution from all threats and guarantee peace and prosperity of the country with powerful military capabilities, he brought up the draft amendment and supplement for discussion at the session of the SPA. The session adopted an ordinance of the SPA of the DPRK "On Amending and Supplementing Some Contents of the Socialist Constitution of the DPRK" with unanimous approval. The unanimous adoption of the crucial agenda item for formulating the DPRK's policy on the nuclear force as the basic law of the state, in the wake of codifying the policy at the 7th Session of the 14th SPA, is a historic event as it provided a powerful political weapon for markedly strengthening the national defence capabilities including the nuclear force, consolidating the institutional and legal foundation for security guarantee and protection of national interests based on them and accelerating the comprehensive development of Korean-style socialism. The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un made a speech. He expressed his heartfelt thanks to the deputies to the SPA who exercised the most historic right of voting in reflection of the general will of all the Korean people and added a brilliant page to the history of the DPRK's Constitution, and extended a noble tribute to all the people. He reviewed the proud successes made this year, which is of great significance for the Korean revolution greeting a new period of upsurge and change in the cause of building a powerful socialist country. And he referred to the orientation and policy tasks for the future struggle and called for concluding the year 2023 with a proud victory by waging a stubborn and substantial struggle till the end of the year. When Kim Jong Un finished his speech, all the participants gave enthusiastic cheers and applause, full of emotion and joy at having received the ever-victorious action programme for dynamic strengthening of the matchless national power of socialist Korea, an immortal programme promoting the building of an ideal society for the people. His significant speech serves as a militant banner and a great revolutionary document bolstering in every way the invincible might of our Republic, a true independent power and a genuine people's power, and dynamically propelling the fresh victory and great advance of the cause of building a socialist power of Juche. The session discussed the draft laws of the DPRK on ensuring the rights of the disabled, irrigation and public servants as next agenda items. Deputy Kang Yun Sok, vice-chairman of the SPA Standing Committee, made a report on the second, third and fourth agenda items. The reporter noted that relevant draft laws reflect the principled issues arising in thoroughly guaranteeing the WPK's policy for ensuring the rights of disabled persons and the fulfillment of the programme for the rural revolution in the new era and further consolidating and developing the state social system. He explained chapter by chapter the contents of the relevant draft laws, including the regulations for thoroughly ensuring the socio-political, economic and cultural rights of disabled persons and making sure that they enjoy a worthwhile life as masters of the state and society, the legal requirements for realizing the irrigation of agriculture at a higher level and ensuring the sustained and stable development of agricultural production and the regulations for ensuring the correct implementation of the Party and state's policies and improving the state management by building up the ranks of public servants. The SPA Standing Committee brought up the draft law of the DPRK on ensuring the rights of the disabled, the draft law of the DPRK on irrigation and the draft law of the DPRK on public servants for discussion at the session, under Article 95 of the Socialist Constitution. Speeches on the second, third and fourth agenda items were made by Deputies Kim Sung Du, Ho Song Chol, Pak Myong Son, Sin Kwan Bong, Jon Sung Guk and Ho Song Ho. Speakers recognized that the law of the DPRK on ensuring the rights of the disabled provides all persons with disabilities with better working and living conditions and develops the trait of helping them throughout the whole society and thus makes it possible to display the advantages of the Korean-style socialist system to the full. They also expressed their opinion that the law on irrigation is of important significance in propelling the increased grain production and the socialist rural development by accelerating the perfection of the overall irrigation system of the country and the law on public servants serves as an institutional guarantee for ensuring the smoothness of state activities by improving the political consciousness, practical qualifications, strong organizing ability and executive ability of public servants, the direct performers of the state administration. After examining and supplementing the deputies' constructive opinions, the session adopted the ordinances of the SPA of the DPRK "On Adopting the Law of the DPRK on Ensuring the Rights of the Disabled", "On Adopting the Law of the DPRK on Irrigation" and "On Adopting the Law of the DPRK on Public Servants". The session discussed "On reviewing the enforcement of the law of the DPRK on financial sector" as its fifth agenda item. Deputy Pak Jong Gun, vice-premier of the Cabinet and concurrently chairman of the State Planning Commission, made a report. The reporter analyzed and reviewed the success, experience, deviation and lesson drawn from the enforcement of the law on financial sector, with regard to the importance of the work to put the state financial system on a scientific basis in keeping with the requirements of the developing reality, and referred to the urgent practical matters arising in substantially propelling the development of the state's economy by reinforcing and perfecting the unified financial control system of the state. Other speakers expressed their determination to make every sector and unit strictly abide by the requirements of the law on financial sector by redoubling their efforts, aware of the heavy duty before the Party, the state and the people and thus financially guarantee the implementation of the resolutions of the Eight WPK Congress. At the session, a resolution on the fifth agenda item was adopted with unanimous approval. The session discussed "On naming the National Aerospace Development Administration of the DPRK the National Aerospace Technology General Bureau of the DPRK" as its sixth agenda item and adopted a resolution on it with unanimous approval. The session discussed the organization matter as its seventh agenda item. Members of the Cabinet were newly appointed. An Kyong Gun was appointed as minister of Machine-building Industry, Ri Sun Chol as minister of State Construction Control, Jon Chol Su as minister of Land and Environment Protection, Kim Kwang Jin as minister of Food Procurement and Administration and Paek Min Gwang as president of the Central Bank Members of sectional committees of the SPA were recalled and by-elected. Deputies Choe Kun Yong, Pak Chang Ho and Ri Yong Chol were by-elected as members of the Legislation Committee of the SPA. Pak In Chol, chairman of the SPA, made a closing address. The 9th Session of the 14th SPA successfully finished its work amid the revolutionary consciousness and enthusiasm of the participants to fully discharge their important obligations as representatives of the people and masters of administration, single-mindedly upholding the great Party Central Committee that is powerfully demonstrating to the whole world the dignity and mightiness of the DPRK with its extraordinary idea and leadership. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address INDO-PACIFIC ARMIES CHIEFS CONFERENCE (IPACC), India - Press Information Bureau Ministry of Defence INDO-PACIFIC ARMIES MANAGEMENT SEMINAR (IPAMS), SENIOR ENLISTED LEADERS FORM (SELF)- 2023 CULMINATED Posted On: 27 SEP 2023 5:38PM by PIB Delhi A three day event, IPACC, IPAMS and SELF-2023, organised by the Indian Army with the US Army as the co-host culminated today in New Delhi. The event witnessed participation from 30 countries. 18 countries were represented by Chiefs of their respective Armies and 12 countries were represented by Heads of Delegations. The event provided an opportunity for the delegates to exchange ideas and views on security and other contemporary issues of mutual interest, with core efforts directed to promote 'Peace and Stability' in the Indo-Pacific region. The event commenced with a call-on by General Randy George, the Chief of Staff (COS) of the US Army to General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Indian Army on 25 th September 2023. Both Chiefs discussed issues of mutual interest and shared views on contemporary issues. On the 26 th September 2023, the Chiefs and the Heads of Delegations laid wreath at the National War Memorial paying homage to our fallen heroes. This was followed by a Joint Press Brief by the COAS Indian Army and COS of the US Army. The COAS Indian Army remarked that the region is not only a cauldron of cultures, histories, resources and opportunities but also a theatre of complexities and challenges. The COS of the US Army highlighted the role of land power and said that, it not only contributes to the shared security of the region but land power is also the decisive force in dealing with crises. The Joint Press Brief was followed by the Opening Ceremony graced by the presence of Hon'ble Raksha Mantri, Shri Rajnath Singh. General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Defence Staff was in attendance. During the ceremony, IPACC and IPAMS flags were trooped in followed by National Anthems of the USA and India. COAS Indian Army and COS of US Army welcomed all participants. Hon'ble Raksha Mantri delivered the Inaugural Address in which he emphasised about the complexities and untapped potential of the Indo-Pacific region and said that the region demands concerted efforts for a prosperous, secure and inclusive future. He also said that, "India stands for a free, open, inclusive and rules-based Indo-Pacific". He reiterated, "Our efforts to build robust military partnerships with friendly countries underscore our commitment to safeguard national interests and address global challenges." Hon'ble Raksha Mantri also released a Commemorative Journal. As part of 13th IPACC, a Chief's Round Table Conference was held on the theme "Together for Peace: Sustaining Peace and Stability in the Indo-Pacific Region". Lieutenant General Raj Shukla (Retired) moderated the Round Table Conference. Lieutenant General Xavier T. Brunson, from the US Army, delivered a talk on "Enhancing Collaboration and Interoperability". Major General Tan Cheng Kwee from Singapore talked about "Role of Military Diplomacy in Mitigating Crises". Lieutenant General Subrata Saha (Retired) spoke on the topic, "Imperatives of Self Reliance for Modern Armies". All Chiefs echoed the theme and reflected the sentiments of all the nations in the area. The Chiefs and Heads of Delegations had free and frank discussions on the need for an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region that follows rules based world order. They highlighted that Indo-Pacific has diversity at many levels and all agreed to work towards a collaborative effort to address the challenges faced in the region. The COAS Indian Army also held bilateral meetings with Chiefs of the armies of the participating countries. He held one to one discussions with General Morishita Yasunori (Japan), Lieutenant General Simon Stuart (Australia), Lieutenant General Mguyen Doan Anh (Vietnam), Lieutenant General Peter Mbogo Njiru (Kenya), Prasiddha Prabal Janesewashree General Prabhu Ram Sharma (Nepal), General Sheikh Md Shafiuddin Ahmed (Bangladesh), Major General John Boswell (New Zealand), General Sir Patrick Sanders (UK), Lieutenant General Mao Sophan (Cambodia), General Jung Hwan Park, Republic of Korea, General Pierre Schill (France) and General Datuk Muhammad Hafizuddeain Bin Jantan (Malaysia). Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar, Vice Chief of the Army Staff also held bilateral meetings with the heads of delegations of Brazil, Singapore, Mongolia and Thailand. Sessions of 47 th IPAMS were conducted in the Plenary Sessions on three themes. The first theme was "Partnering for Sustainable Peace and Security in the Indo-Pacific". Second theme was "Cooperation to Enhance Interoperability" and final theme was "Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)- Evolving Mechanisms for Crises Response". Senior officers from Mangolia, Nepal, Japan, Australia, Philippines, Tonga, USA and India spoke on the topics and shared their views with all participants. The discussions were moderated by Lieutenant General PS Rajeshwar (Retired), Lieutenant General Sunil Srivastava (Retired) and Lieutenant General Arun Kumar Sahni (Retired). It emerged during the discussions that the nations need to work together to strengthen the collective responses. This collaborative effort is not built overnight and therefore IPAMS provided the platform to build a connect, confidence and commitment for the future. 9th SELF was conducted in three sessions on the themes, "Interoperability Amongst Indo-Pacific Armies", "Grooming Junior Leaders for Modern Battlefield" and "Beyond the Barracks- Addressing Senior Enlisted Leaders' Concerns". It was a unique forum where junior leaders at the functional level exchanged their views and ideas. A Special Plenary for the spouses was also conducted on the theme "Beyond the Barracks: Roles and Challenges in Fostering Military Communities and Sharing Best Practices". The session commenced with the Opening Address by Mrs Archana Pande, President, Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA) and Mrs Patty George, spouse of the COS of the US Army. The spouses also visited the National War Memorial and paid their tributes. An AWWA Exhibition was also showcased to the participants highlighting the entrepreneurial success of spouses of Indian Military personnel. This was followed by a tour to 'AAHWAN', which highlighted various initiatives undertaken by the AWWA towards women empowerment. 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' Equipment Display during the event showcased the capability of Indian Industry to produce world class military equipment indigenously. 31 corporates participated in the exhibition which generated lots of interest amongst participants. The main highlights were Drones, Counter-Drone Systems, Modular Firing Ranges, Small Arms, NAVIC based devices, Surveillance Systems, Protective Gear, Self-Propelled Artillery Guns, Military Vehicles etc. A guided tour of the Gandhi Smriti was conducted for all the participants. In addition, an evening dedicated to the rich culture of India was also organised. This included performances by the Indian Army's Symphony Band and dance forms showcasing India's vibrant traditions and art under the theme 'Colours of India'. An all-encapsulating event culminated with the Closing Ceremony in Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt on 27 th September 23. Hon'ble Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Ajay Bhatt delivered the closing address and thanked all participants. The conference came to an end with a Flag Handing Over Ceremony. The IPACC and IPAMS flags were handed over by the Indian Army to the US Army. The intense discussions and engagements between the Chiefs, Heads of Delegations, Senior Officers, Junior Leaders and their spouses helped in building bonds between the Armies. The forum provided an opportunity for all participants to hear distinguished speakers and participate in discussions based on wide-ranging themes. The event achieved the envisaged outcomes such as evolving a shared vision for military cooperation, fostering a sense of collective responsibility, sharing best practices, appreciating areas and communities vulnerable to climate change, synergising approach to HADR response, increasing military exchange endeavours, progressing defence diplomacy initiatives and reinforcing the importance of open and sustained dialogue to jointly address issues that impact the Indo-Pacific countries. All participating nations thanked the co-hosts for the invite and the Indian Army for the warm hospitality they were accorded. _______________________________________________________________________ SC,RS, VY (Release ID: 1961331) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US imposes sanctions on several entities, individuals for aiding Iran's drone program Iran Press TV Wednesday, 27 September 2023 5:49 PM The US has placed sanctions on entities and individuals based in Iran and three other countries for what it called aiding Iran's drone program, repeating its unsubstantiated claim of Tehran's support for Russia's war effort in Ukraine. The US Treasury Department said in a statement on Wednesday that it had put sanctions on five entities and two people based in Iran, Turkey, China and the UAE, claiming they were part of a network helping procure sensitive parts for Iran's unmanned aerial vehicle program. The Treasury statement claimed the network facilitated shipments and financial transactions for the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps' procurement of sensitive parts used in Iranian drones. It claimed a motor procured by the network was recently found in the remains of a Russia-operated drone in Ukraine. The US has so far imposed similar sanctions on a number of entities and individuals based in Iran and other countries, accusing them of supporting Tehran's drone development. Washington and its allies have long accused Iran of supplying drones to Russia for use in Ukraine. Iran has repeatedly rejected Washington's claim, saying it has not sold any weapons to Russia to be used in the war against Ukraine, and asked the West to offer evidence for the allegation. Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian has said that Tehran had provided Moscow with a limited number of drones, but the delivery had taken place months before the war in Ukraine. Iran's military development has been a target of many Western sanctions throughout recent decades. In July 2021, The Wall Street Journal reported that the US was planning a sanctions campaign against Iran's defensive drones and guided missiles program, six months after the administration of President Joe Biden was sworn in. Citing unnamed US officials, the daily said the sanctions were aimed at disrupting the development of Iran's weapons program. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran starts tapping newly-unfrozen funds in Qatar totaling $6 billion Iran Press TV Wednesday, 27 September 2023 5:38 PM Iran and Qatar have agreed a mechanism that allows Tehran to tap funds recently unfrozen and deposited into bank accounts in the Arab country as part of a deal with the United States. Central Bank of Iran (CBI) Governor Mohammad-Reza Farzin and Qatar's top banker Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud Al Thani reached an agreement in Doha on Wednesday to start banking operations to use the funds transferred to Iranian bank accounts in Qatar earlier this month, a CBI statement said. The statement said the agreement was reached as part of a broader discussion between Farzin and Sheikh Bandar to boost banking cooperation between Iran and Qatar. Farzin said on September 18 that some 5.573 billion euros of Iran's foreign assets had been successfully transferred to accounts held by six Iranian banks in Qatar's Ahlibank and Dukhan Bank. The transfer took place under a Qatari-mediated deal between Iran and the US whereby the US agreed to lift sanctions on Iranian funds that had remained blocked in two South Korean banks since 2018. The two sides also exchanged prisoners as part of their deal. Qatar paid for banking fees related to the change and transfer of the funds from South Korea via Swiss National Bank to Qatari banks. The CBI statement identified the six Iranian banks holding accounts in Qatar for the purpose of processing the unfrozen funds as Keshavarzi, Saman, Pasargad, Gardeshgari, Shahr and Karafarin. Iranian authorities have indicated in previous statements that they will use the newly-unfrozen funds in Qatar for purchase of non-sanctioned goods, including for imports of animal feed for which Iran spends billions of dollars each year. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 31 US senators ask E3 to prevent expiry of UN's anti-Iran missile bans Iran Press TV Wednesday, 27 September 2023 1:39 PM A bipartisan group of US senators have asked the United Kingdom, France and Germany to take action to prevent the expiration of UN bans targeting Iran's missile and drone activities, which are set to end next month. The letter, signed by 31 lawmakers from both the Democratic and Republican parties, praised the E3 for their recent announcement of plans to unilaterally maintain their sanctions on Iran's missile program, but said that UN action is necessary to maintain proper safeguards on Iran. "Without the force of a binding UN Security Council resolution, there is no multilateral framework that mandates international sanctions on Iran's missile and drone program," the senators wrote, according to a report by pro-Israel publication Jewish Insider. The US senators claimed that letting the bans expire poses a threat to "stability and security in the Middle East and beyond", as it allows further proliferation of advanced weaponry and empowers "malign actors" in the Middle East and Europe. The letter said the expiration of the bans also sends the wrong signal to Iran, claiming that it would allow Iran to continue what they called "its destabilizing policies across a number of areas." The letter was organized by Bob Menendez, who has been indicted on bribery charges, and Bill Hagerty. It was sent to the three European countries' ambassadors to the US on Friday. As part of the 2015 nuclear deal, the UN sanctions on Iran's missile and drone programs will expire in mid-October. Earlier this month, the three European countries said they plan not to terminate their anti-Iran sanctions, arguing that Iran has been in non-compliance with the deal since 2019. Iran halted some of its JCPOA commitments in 2019, a year after the US unilaterally walked out of the deal and after the EU failed to offer any compensation for the US withdrawal. Iran said at the time the reduction of its commitments was in accordance with the deal, which allows parties to dishonor commitments should other parties do the same. The three European countries, which are still among parties to the deal after the US withdrawal in 2018, have been urged by some critics to trigger the deal's so-called snapback mechanism to prevent the expiration of the sanctions. That mechanism, which can be activated in case of "significant non-performance" of Iran's commitments under the accord, involves the re-imposition of the terminated Security Council sanctions from earlier resolutions on Iran. European diplomats have already said they would do that only if Iran enriched to very high-grade levels. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran slams Netanyahu's nuclear threat, vows to respond resolutely Iran Press TV Wednesday, 27 September 2023 10:57 AM Iran has vehemently condemned Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu's threat to use nukes, saying it reserves the right to deliver a resolute response to the occupying entity under international law. In letters sent Monday to UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, as well as the presidents of the General Assembly and Security Council, Iran's permanent representative to the United Nations Amir Saeid Iravani urged the international community to break their silence in the face of Tel Aviv's "reckless and dangerous" rhetoric. On Friday, Netanyahu called for a "credible nuclear threat" against Iran in an address to the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly. However, the hawkish premier's office later said that he misread the line and meant to say a "credible military threat." "While vehemently and unequivocally condemning the Israeli regime's perilous threat to use nuclear weapons against Iran ..., the Islamic Republic firmly reaffirms its legitimate and inherent rights, in full accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter, to respond resolutely to any threats and unlawful acts" by Tel Aviv, Iravani wrote. "Iran also declares that it will not hesitate to exercise these rights to defend its security, national interests, and people." The envoy further noted that the international community must not remain indifferent to the bellicose anti-Iran threat from an illegitimate regime that wages aggressions, carries out apartheid policies, and sponsors terrorism, while possessing an arsenal of weapons of mass destruction alongside advanced conventional weaponry. "The Israeli regime shamelessly defies repeated international calls to join legally binding instruments that prohibit weapons of mass destruction and obstructs the establishment of a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the Middle East, a proposal that Iran has championed since 1974. Therefore, this alarming situation demands a robust response from the international community," he added. Israel, which pursues a policy of deliberate ambiguity about its nuclear weapons, is estimated to have 200 to 400 nuclear warheads in its arsenal, making it the Middle East's sole possessor of non-conventional arms. The usurping entity has, however, refused to either allow inspections of its military nuclear facilities or sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). 'Nuke-armed Israel must be forced to join NPT' Also on Tuesday, Zahra Ershadi, Iran's deputy permanent representative to the UN, called on the international community to force Israel to join the NPT. "The Israeli regime, with the support of the United States, has consistently opposed all initiatives aimed at establishing a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the Middle East," she said during the General Assembly's annual high-level commemoration of the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons. "The international community must hold this regime accountable through resolutions and decisions that call upon this regime to renounce its possession of nuclear weapons, accede to the NPT as a non-nuclear weapon party, and subject all its nuclear facilities and activities to comprehensive IAEA safeguards," Ershadi added, referring to the International Atomic Energy Agency, the UN's nuclear watchdog. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China blasts Iran-related US sanctions, vows to defend own interests Iran Press TV Wednesday, 27 September 2023 8:13 AM Beijing has censured a recent move by the US administration to impose a new round of sanctions against a number of Chinese individuals and entities over accusations of providing Iran with drone production materials. The administration of US President Joe Biden last week targeted seven individuals and four entities based in Iran, China, Russia, and Turkey for what it claimed to be facilitating shipments and financial transactions involving Tehran's drone technology and military hardware program. Responding to the hostile move, the Chinese government said Washington's unilateral sanctions disrupted the global trade system and warned that Beijing would take the necessary measures to safeguard its interests. "China will take the necessary measures to resolutely defend the country's legitimate rights and interests," a spokesperson from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce said on Tuesday. "The United States government's misuse of unilateral sanctions and its application of 'long-arm jurisdiction' disrupts the global trade system and regulations, hinders regular economic and trade interactions among countries, and negatively impacts the lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies and individuals." A day earlier, the US Bureau of Industry and Security within the US Commerce Department accused another group of eight Chinese entities of "obtaining or attempting to obtain" US drone equipment for Iran. Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security, Alan Estevez claimed that Washington's sanctions targeted any individuals or entities serving to aid Russia in its war on Ukraine. Both Iran and Russia have repeatedly denied claims that Tehran has provided Moscow with drones to be used in the war in Ukraine. 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. In November last year, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian clarified that Tehran had provided Moscow with "a limited number" of drones, but months before the war in Ukraine. He also assured that Iran will not be indifferent if it is proven that Russia has used Iranian drones in the conflict. Western governments have thus far failed to provide evidence on the use of Iranian drones in the Ukrainian conflict despite slapping illegal sanctions on the Islamic Republic over the unsubstantiated protestation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran: World should stand up to Israel's 'nuclear rhetoric' Iran Press TV Wednesday, 27 September 2023 1:27 AM Iran has called on the international community to stand up to "nuclear rhetoric" by the Israeli regime, which recently called for a "nuclear threat" against the Islamic Republic. Iran's permanent mission to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva made the call on Tuesday, on the occasion of the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons. "September 26, marks the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons. Iran, as the victim of WMD (weapons of mass destruction) in contemporary history, is committed to this end and decisively, along with other peace-loving nations, will follow the cause of a Nuclear Weapons Free World," the Iranian mission wrote in a post on X, the social media network used to be known as Twitter. Days earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had addressed the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), calling for a "credible nuclear threat" against Iran. "The international community should reject and condemn any normalization of nuclear rhetoric and, in particular, the threat of use of nuclear weapons, as made at #UNGA78 by the Israeli regime prime minister, which only serves to undermine the international peace and security," the Iranian mission added. During his speech, Netanyahu warned about the "curse of a nuclear Iran," alleging "...as long as I'm prime minister of Israel, I will do everything in my power to prevent Iran from getting nuclear weapons." Iran's diplomatic delegation at the UN dismissed Netanyahu's speech as a "comedy show," saying "The baseless allegations made by Israeli officials no longer fool anyone." Speaking on Sunday, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian also said no one took Netanyahu's baseless anti-Iran accusations and threats seriously as the occupying regime was in its "weakest state" amid internal crises. Tehran has repeatedly declared that its nuclear program remains purely peaceful as always and that the Islamic Republic had no intention of developing nuclear weapons as a matter of Islamic and state principles. Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has issued an official fatwa (religious decree) clearly establishing that any form of acquisition, development, and use of nuclear weapons violated Islamic principles and were therefore forbidden. Iran proved the peaceful nature of its nuclear program to the world by signing the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, officially called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with six world powers, but the United States later quit it. Israel, however, which pursues a policy of deliberate ambiguity about its nuclear weapons, is estimated to harbor 200 to 400 nuclear warheads in its arsenal, making it the sole possessor of non-conventional arms in West Asia. The regime has, nevertheless, refused to either allow inspections of its military nuclear facilities or sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. Imposes Sanctions Aimed At Iranian Drone-Procurement Network By RFE/RL September 27, 2023 The United States has imposed sanctions on entities in Iran, Hong Kong, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates that the U.S. Treasury Department says comprise a network for the procurement of parts for Iran's drone program. The network has facilitated shipments and financial transactions in support of a critical component used in Iran's Shahed drones, which Iran has been supplying to Russia for use against Ukraine, the Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) said on September 27. The critical component is known as a servomotor and is used in Iran's Shahed-series unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The OFAC said the sanctions took aim at the procurement of servomotors by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps' (IRGC) aerospace organization. The OFAC said one of the servomotors procured by the network was recovered in the remnants of a Russian-operated Shahed-136 that was recently shot down in Ukraine. "Iranian-made UAVs continue to be a key tool for Russia in its attacks in Ukraine, including those that terrorize Ukrainian citizens and attack its critical infrastructure," Undersecretary of the Treasury Brian Nelson said in a news release. Two of the five entities designated for sanctions are Iran-based Pishgam Electronic Safeh Company (PESC) and Hongkong Himark Electron Model Limited. The other three are based in Turkey and the U.A.E., the OFAC said. PESC has procured thousands of servomotors with one-way attack UAV applications worth hundreds of thousands of dollars for the IRGC, the OFAC said. The company's CEO, Iran-based Hamid Reza Janghorbani, was also designated for sanctions along with Hongkong Himark official Fan Yang, who is based in China. The OFAC said Fan had represented Hong Kong-based Hongkong Himark in fulfilling servomotor orders worth more than $1 million for PESC. In addition to selling servomotors to PESC, Fan attempted to hide that an Iranian company was behind the shipments by falsifying invoices, the OFAC said. Hongkong Himark is being designated for having provided or attempted to provide financial, technological, or other support for PESC. The firms based in Turkey and the U.A.E. have been designated for facilitating financial transactions, shipping, and material and technical support for PESC's servomotor procurement from Hongkong Himark. The sanctions build on designations announced in November 2022 by the OFAC aimed at Iran's Shahed Aviation Industries Research Center. The Iranian firm is subordinate to the IRGC's aerospace organization and designs and manufactures the Shahed-136, the Treasury Department said. The sanctions freeze any assets the individuals hold in U.S. jurisdiction and block people in the United States from having any dealings with the entities and individuals named. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-us-sanctions-drone- procurement/32612922.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 United States Imposes Sanctions on Transnational Procurement Network Supporting Iran's One-Way Attack UAV Program US Department of State Press Statement Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson September 27, 2023 Today, the United States is designating a network linked to the U.S.-designated Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). This network-comprised of five entities and two individuals based in Iran, the People's Republic of China (PRC), Hong Kong, TArkiye, and the United Arab Emirates-has been procuring sensitive parts for Iran's one-way attack unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) program. Iran is supplying Russia with arms, including Shahed-136 UAVs, to support Russia's illegal war against Ukraine. One of the servomotors procured by the network designated today was recovered in the remnants of a Russia-operated Shahed-136 that was recently shot down in Ukraine. The United States is determined to take actions against those supporting Russia's war machine, particularly the provision of weapons that target Ukraine's people and civil infrastructure. For more information on today's action, please see the Department of the Treasury's press release . NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Treasury Sanctions Transnational Procurement Network Supporting Iran's One-Way Attack UAV Program U.S. Department of the Treasury September 27, 2023 WASHINGTON -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned five entities and two individuals based in Iran, the People's Republic of China (PRC), Hong Kong, TArkiye, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) involved in the procurement of sensitive parts for Iran's one-way attack unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) program. This network has facilitated shipments and financial transactions in support of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Aerospace Force Self Sufficiency Jihad Organization's (IRGC ASF SSJO) procurement of servomotors, a critical component used in Iran's Shahed-series UAVs. Iran has been supplying Russia with Shahed-136 UAVs to support Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine. One of the servomotors procured by the network designated today was recovered in the remnants of a Russia-operated Shahed-136 that was recently shot down in Ukraine. "Iranian-made UAVs continue to be a key tool for Russia in its attacks in Ukraine, including those that terrorize Ukrainian citizens and attack its critical infrastructure," said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E. Nelson. "The United States, in coordination with our allies and partners, will persist in holding accountable those who contribute to Iran's proliferation of its UAVs to Russia, its proxies in the Middle East, and other destabilizing actors." Since September 2022, OFAC has issued nine rounds of designations targeting Iran's UAV program. Today's action, which is taken pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13382, builds on OFAC's November 15, 2022 designation of Iran's Shahed Aviation Industries Research Center (SAIRC), a firm subordinate to the IRGC ASF that designs and manufactures the Shahed-136 one-way attack UAV that Iran has supplied to Russia. OFAC designated the IRGC ASF pursuant to E.O. 13382 on June 16, 2010, and the U.S. Department of State designated the IRGC ASF SSJO pursuant to E.O. 13382 on July 18, 2017. iRAN's pISHGAM eLECTRONIC SAFEH COMPANY Iran-based Pishgam Electronic Safeh Company (PESC) has procured thousands of servomotors with one-way attack UAV applications, worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, for Iran's IRGC ASF SSJO. Iran-based Hamid Reza Janghorbani (Janghorbani) serves as the Chief Executive Officer of PESC. PESC is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for having provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, technological, or other support for, or goods or services in support of, the IRGC ASF SSJO. Janghorbani is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, PESC. East asia-based Procurement nodes Hong Kong-based Hongkong Himark Electron Model Limited (Hongkong Himark) has fulfilled several servomotor orders worth more than $1 million for PESC in Iran, with PRC-based Hongkong Himark official Fan Yang (Fan) representing Hongkong Himark in these sales. Fan sold several thousand servomotors to PESC in Iran and undertook measures, such as falsifying invoices, to obfuscate the Iranian end-user of the shipments. Fan and Hongkong Himark have also supplied servomotors worth more than a hundred thousand dollars to the Houthis in Yemen. Hongkong Himark is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for having provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, technological, or other support for, or goods or services in support of, PESC. Fan is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Hongkong Himark. TArkiye- and UAE-based fINANCIAL AND lOGISTICAL fACILITATORS TArkiye-based firms Dal Enerji Madencilik Turizm Sanayi Ve Ticaret Anonim Sirketi (Dal Enerji) and Anka Port Ic Ve Dis Ticaret INSAAT Lojistik Sanayi Limited Sirketi (Anka Port) have facilitated financial transactions totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars in support of PESC's servomotor procurement from Hongkong Himark, affording PESC access to the U.S. and international financial systems. UAE-based Farhad Ghaedi Goods Wholesalers LLC (Farhad Ghaedi) has facilitated the shipment of thousands of servomotors through Dubai for onward delivery to PESC in Iran. Dal Enerji has also facilitated hundreds of thousands of dollars in payments for illicit Iranian petrochemical sales in support of the Iran Chemical Industries Investment Company (ICIIC), which was designated pursuant to E.O. 13846 on September 29, 2022, for, on or after November 15, 2018, having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, Triliance Petrochemical Co. Ltd. Dal Enerji, Anka Port, and Farhad Ghaedi are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for having provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, technological, or other support for, or goods or services in support of, PESC. SANCTIONS IMPLICATIONS As a result of today's action, all property and interests in property of the individuals and entities named above, and of any entities that are owned, directly or indirectly, 50 percent or more by them, individually, or with other blocked persons, that are in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons must be blocked and reported to OFAC. All transactions 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 are prohibited. In addition, persons that engage in certain transactions with the individuals or entities designated today may themselves be exposed to sanctions. 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 pursuant to E.O. 13382 could be subject to U.S. sanctions. The power and integrity of OFAC sanctions derive not only from OFAC's ability to designate and add persons to the 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 FAQ 897. For identifying information on the individuals and entities designated today, click here. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Mayorkas and Secretary Blinken Announce Designation of Israel into the Visa Waiver Program Release Date: September 27, 2023 WASHINGTON -- Today, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas, in consultation with Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, announced the designation of Israel into the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). By November 30, 2023, the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) will be updated to allow citizens and nationals of Israel to apply to travel to the United States for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without first obtaining a U.S. visa, a step which further strengthens the security, economic and people-to-people ties between the United States and Israel. Following updates in Israel's travel policies, all U.S. citizens may request entry to Israel for up to 90 days for business, tourism, or transit without obtaining a visa. "The designation of Israel into the Visa Waiver Program is an important recognition of our shared security interests and the close cooperation between our two countries," said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. "This designation, which represents over a decade of work and coordination between the United States and Israel, will enhance our two nations' collaboration on counterterrorism, law enforcement, and our other common priorities. Israel's entry into the Visa Waiver Program, and the stringent requirements it entails, will make both of our nations more secure." "Israel's entry into the Visa Waiver Program represents a critical step forward in our strategic partnership with Israel that will further strengthen long-standing people-to-people engagement, economic cooperation, and security coordination between our two countries," said Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken. "This important achievement will enhance freedom of movement for U.S. citizens, including those living in the Palestinian Territories or traveling to and from them." The Visa Waiver Program is designed to enhance the security of the United States and partner countries while encouraging legitimate travel and commerce. The program builds comprehensive security partnerships between the United States and designated countries that meet strict requirements related to counterterrorism, law enforcement, immigration enforcement, document security, and border management. These requirements include confirmation that a country issues secure travel documents; extends visa-free privileges to all U.S. citizens without regard to national origin, religion, or ethnicity; works closely with U.S. law enforcement and counterterrorism authorities; and for initial designation, has a rate of nonimmigrant visitor visa refusals below 3% during the previous full fiscal year. Israel put forth a significant whole-of-government effort to meet all program requirements, including passing multiple new laws, establishing information sharing systems, and implementing new entry procedures for all U.S. citizens. In advance of this designation, Israel made updates to its entry policies to meet the VWP requirement to extend reciprocal privileges to all U.S. citizens without regard to national origin, religion, or ethnicity. DHS monitored Israel's implementation of these requirements and engaged with Palestinian-Americans both living in the West Bank and living in the United States, who now have the ability to enter Israel visa free, and fly in and out of Ben Gurion airport, reducing barriers to travel for these Americans. Today's designation is not the end of the process. As is the process with all VWP countries, the U.S. Government will continue to engage with the Government of Israel while monitoring its continued implementation of all program requirements, including the reciprocity commitments it made to the United States on July 19, 2023. Under the VWP, on November 30, 2023, citizens and nationals of Israel will be able to apply online for authorization to travel to the United States through the ESTA. These authorizations are generally valid for two years. Israeli citizens with valid B-1/B-2 visas may continue to use them for business and tourist travel to the United States. ESTA applications may be found at esta.cbp.dhs.gov or download the "ESTA Mobile" app through iOS App Store or the Google Play store. Israel is the 41st member of the VWP. More information on the VWP can be found at www.dhs.gov/visa-waiver-program. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Admits Israel Into Visa Waiver Program By VOA News September 27, 2023 The United States will be admitting Israel into its Visa Waiver Program, or VWP, which will allow the entry of Israeli citizens into the country without a visa for up to 90 days, beginning November 30. The U.S.-Israel relationship has been tested recently by Washington's vocal opposition to Israel's judiciary overhaul plan and its policy toward Palestinians. This decision, however, is seen as a step forward for the Biden administration's relations with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, according to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. "The designation of Israel into the Visa Waiver Program is an important recognition of our shared security interests and the close cooperation between our two countries," Mayorkas said in a statement. "This designation, which represents over a decade of work and coordination between the United States and Israel, will enhance our two nations' collaboration on counterterrorism, law enforcement, and our other common priorities. Israel's entry into the Visa Waiver Program, and the stringent requirements it entails, will make both of our nations more secure." The decision also allows U.S. travelers to enter Israel for 90 days without first obtaining a visa. To be admitted into the VWP, the United States requires countries to meet requirements on issues such as counterterrorism, law enforcement, immigration enforcement, document security and border management. Countries must also treat all U.S. travelers equally, regardless of other passports they hold. This means U.S. citizens who also hold Palestinian passports would need to be granted free passage at Ben Gurion Airport. "This important achievement will enhance freedom of movement for U.S. citizens, including those living in the Palestinian Territories or traveling to and from them," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in the joint statement with Mayorkas. Granting Israel access to the VWP has been met with backlash from some Palestinians who claim Israel has discriminated against and harassed Arab Americans at the border. Some Democratic lawmakers have also spoken out against Israel's admission into the program, alleging the country has failed to meet the requirement to treat all American citizens equally, regardless of other passports held. "Adherence to this important American tenet of reciprocity and equal treatment of all U.S. citizens is critical to the integrity of the Visa Waiver Program, and we are deeply concerned with the administration's decision to move forward in violation of that principle," said Senators Chris Van Hollen, Brian Schatz, Jeff Merkley and Peter Welch in a joint statement. "We will carefully monitor the situation to determine whether Americans continue to face discrimination based on their ethnicity, national origin, or religion." J Street, the Washington-based liberal Jewish advocacy group, called Wednesday's move a step in the right direction but expressed concern that Israel "does not meet the criteria for entry that every other country must meet." "The Memorandum of Understanding signed with Israel in July does not require it to fully implement one system that all U.S. citizen visitors, including those who Israel deems residents of the West Bank, can use for purposes of visa waiver travel until May 1, 2024," J Street said in a statement. The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee filed a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security on Tuesday to halt Israel's acceptance into the program. The motion to file suit was denied by a U.S. judge in Detroit, as proper notice of a lawsuit was not given to the Department of Homeland Security. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Two weeks since floods in eastern Libya, UN teams remain on the ground, providing humanitarian assistance and supporting early recovery UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (Benghazi, 27 September 2023) Two weeks since devastating floods in northeastern Libya claimed several thousand lives and ravaged entire neighbourhoods, the United Nations and its partners remain on the ground and continue to provide critical humanitarian assistance and support to affected people in Derna, Benghazi, Al Bayda, Shahat and Soussa. "As families grapple with their losses and consider their future, humanitarian agencies have stepped up to help them meet their basic needs," said Georgette Gagnon, United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Libya, following her second visit to Derna since the floods. According to the World Health Organization, 4,255 deaths have been confirmed due to the floods, with 8,540 people still missing. Humanitarian needs remain critical. UN agencies found that half of the 78 health facilities assessed in Derna and parts of Al-Jabar Al-Akhdar are either partially or totally non-functioning. Rushing floodwaters also destroyed water networks and sewage pipes. Many families displaced by the floods are staying with host families, while others are sheltering in schools as local authorities find solutions for their housing needs. With the imminent start of the school year in eastern Libya, addressing the situation of displaced people staying in schools is an urgent priority. United Nations agencies and partners, who were on the ground in the affected areas within hours of the floods, are providing safe drinking water, medical supplies, hygiene kits, school supplies, blankets, food items and psychosocial first-aid services to people, as well as supporting the establishment of six field hospitals. Gagnon highlighted progress in ongoing efforts to remove debris and rehabilitate roads and deliver humanitarian assistance to affected people. Together with WHO and UNICEF, she reviewed access to essential health services and medical referral paths in Al Bayda and Shahat and met with displaced families in Derna. Gagnon also thanked Libyan and international search and rescue workers for their tireless efforts to find survivors in the most difficult conditions and commended the search and rescue operation. Over the last 14 days, some 800 women and men from 12 countries have supported Libyan efforts on land and at sea. While many international teams have now demobilized, a number remain in Libya to support the Libyan-led recovery effort. In meetings with local authorities, Gagnon discussed the importance of full access by humanitarian workers, and the need for strong coordination among relevant national and international stakeholders. She highlighted the need to accelerate early recovery efforts to advance longer-term reconstruction. "What people in Derna and surrounding areas have experienced is tragic beyond words," Gagnon said. "All the displaced families I met said they have one wish: For their lives to go back to normal. The outpouring of unity, solidarity and support shown by Libyans from all over the country gives me hope this will happen soon." United Nations agencies have appealed for US$71.4 million to meet the immediate needs of 250,000 affected people in the next three months. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Nearly 2,000 NLD party members jailed under Myanmar junta More than half remain in detention, including 73 members of parliament. By RFA Burmese 2023.09.27 -- Myanmar's military regime has arrested and jailed nearly 2,000 members of the deposed National League for Democracy, or NLD, since seizing power in a coup d'etat, the party said Wednesday in a statement to mark the 35th anniversary of its founding. The NLD became Myanmar's ruling party in 2015, following a landslide victory at the polls, but the military claimed the ballot was fixed and carried out a putsch on Feb. 1, 2021, arresting de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi, President Win Myint, and other top officials. Since then, junta authorities have arrested 1,910 NLD members - at least 1,269 of whom are still in detention, the NLD's Human Rights Documentation Team said in a report. The detainees include 1,077 men and 192 women, and 73 are elected members of parliament, the report said. Khin Saung, a member of the NLD's Central Executive Committee, told RFA Burmese that the military has dashed the dreams of the people of Myanmar, who overwhelmingly elected his party eight years ago. "The military junta has continued to illegally arrest and imprison the top leaders of the National League for Democracy, arbitrarily seal or destroy party offices, and viciously assassinate party members," he said. "It is clear that the junta is trying to systematically destroy the NLD." Junta authorities have raided NLD party offices throughout the country at least 160 times, destroyed 390 NLD-owned houses and plots of land, and seized the assets of 373 party members - including the homes of 182 members of parliament, 64 business properties, and 16 vehicles, the report said. Security personnel have killed at least 100 NLD party members - including three lawmakers - it said. The military regime has remained silent about the targeting of the NLD and attempts by RFA to contact junta Deputy Information Minister Zaw Min Tun about the party's allegations went unanswered Wednesday. According to Thailand's Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (Burma), the junta has killed at least 4,124 democracy activists and civilians throughout the country since the coup. At least 19,272 people remained in junta detention as of Wednesday, the group said. Translated by Myo Min Aung. Edited by Joshua Lipes and Matt Reed. 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 Myanmar's resistance says it has cracked junta's anti-drone jammers The anti-regime groups are using unmanned aircraft more widely to attack military forces. By RFA Burmese 2023.09.27 -- Resistance fighters in Myanmar are increasingly relying on drones to attack Myanmar military forces now that they have cracked the junta's anti-drone jammers, rebel groups and drone operation groups said. The performance of the drones has also improved significantly, said Ko Nyein, who is in charge of a rebel drone force called Cloud Wings in Kayin state, in eastern Myanmar. "Our drones can now carry heavier payloads, fly higher and further, and penetrate the junta's jammers," he said. "We now can use our drones widely in many military columns across Myanmar." Rebel forces conducted about 642 drone attacks on junta soldiers in 2022, according to three drone forces in Kayin and Kayah states and in Sagaing and Magway regions. The use of drones has increased this year, militia groups operating under the shadow National Unity Government said, but could not provide details, citing security concerns or sensitivity regarding their military matters. None of the groups has yet issued figures for the number of drone attacks this year, however. People's Defense Forces, or PDFs - bands of ordinary citizens who have taken up arms against the military following the 2021 military coup - and ethnic militias have turned to modern-day warfare technology to battle junta soldiers who have installed machine guns and anti-drone defense equipment at important military bases, drone operation personnel said. At first, the rebel fighters relied on handmade weapons, including hunting rifles called tumees, launchers and bombs against the national military. They are using more attack drones that can drop bombs now that they have overcome the junta's anti-drone defense system, PDF personnel said. The shadow National Unity Government, made up of former civilian leaders and anti-junta activists, has distributed more than 400 attack drones to loosely controlled militia groups, said Maung Maung Swe, deputy secretary of the NUG's Ministry of Defense. "We are aware of the strengths and weaknesses of their [the junta's] drones and can now take them down," he told RFA. "Because we know the frequency of their jammers, it is no longer difficult for us at all to penetrate them across the country." Cost of bombs The Cloud Wings drone force formed in Kayin state in March has conducted more than 100 anti-junta drone operations, said Ko Nyein. But the high cost of various bombs attached to the drones has been a challenge, Ko Nyein said. "If we talk about the main difficulty we face, it is the cost of the bombs," he said. On Sept. 1 and 2, the Cloud Wings drone unit twice attacked the police station and the municipal hall in the city of Kyainseigyi, dropping 107-mm bombs. The next day, the Federal Wingsaanother resistance group that uses drones to attack junta troops and facilitiesabombed the police station in Kayin's Myawaddy city, killing five people, including the Myawaddy district administrator and the acting commander of the junta's Light Infantry Regiment No. 175, and injuring an unknown number of others. These drone attacks have become so strategic as to threaten the junta, said Capt. Kaung Thu Win, who joined the nationwide Civil Disobedience Movement of individuals who quit their government-related jobs to protest the junta. "In the past, the military troops were terrified by the landmine attacks when they set out for battles," he said. "At the moment, the weapons that scare them the most are our drones because they are used in defensive as well as surprise attacks day or night." "The bombs dropped by our drones significantly hurt the military troops, though they can't wipe out an entire enemy unit," he added. Attack from a distance The junta's anti-drone equipment called Drone Guard is limited and many soldiers at bases do not know how to use it, Kaung Thu Win said. On Sept. 11, junta troops stationed near Sagaing region's Nat Yay Kan village in Chaung-U township were attacked by fixed-wing drones of the Civilian Defense and Security Organization of Myaung, another resistance group. They successfully penetrated military jammers that can cut off radio waves and stop drone control. RFA could not reach junta spokesman Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun for comment on how the military is handling drone attacks by the People's Defense Forces. "As far as the drone threats are concerned, they can attack our troops from a distance that we can't see," said Thein Tun Oo, executive director of the Thayninga Institute for Strategic Studies, a pro-military think tank composed of former army officers. "It's sometimes hard to detect them," he said. "We can be hurt because they can drop bombs in surprise, but if we can apply our defense systems precisely, we will be safe from these attacks." Military and political analyst Than Soe Naing said he believes that drones play only a partial role in successful battles, however. "The morale and fighting spirit of the soldiers on both sides of the battle play a more important role in determining a victory or loss," he said. "A superb military strategy that includes weapons and ammunition, including drones, is important as well. Drones are only about one-third important in winning a battle." Translated by Myo Min Aung for RFA Burmese. Edited by Roseanne Gerin and Malcolm Foster. Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content 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 Construction in ancient city of Bagan goes unchecked under junta Conservationists speak out against hotel expansions and construction in protected areas. Special for RFA 2023.09.27 -- When Chinese conservation teams began working on the That Bin Nyu Temple in Myanmar's ancient city Bagan, local residents noticed something out of place. Less than 300 meters (yards) away, they also began constructing an office. "We can only see it but we don't exactly know what they are doing," one local, who declined to give their name for fear of reprisals, told Radio Free Asia. "A civilian can't know that much. We just see the maintenance work there." In the last two years, much of the oversight in Bagan's preservation has slowly fallen away. Teams from nations like France, South Korea and Japan withdrew after the 2021 coup, allowing China and India to take over the conservation of numerous temples. That's raised concern among conservation experts about the quality of the work so far and the practices of the teams conducting it. Conservationist and Bagan specialist Zay Myo Lin also cited the Chinese team's office, which is only 30 meters (yards) away from the Pahtothamya Pagoda. He added that this type of construction was not allowed in the last decade, and that a fence and guards now surrounded it. "By law it's not allowed to be built. It must be far away from the monuments," he said. "There's a guideline like that already set up, but they don't care." Increased construction Lack of supervision and poor labor quality are not the only causes for concern. After the coup, there has also been an increase in construction projects in the ancient city that are frequently undertaken without heritage impact reports. "During the transition period, before the NLD [National League of Democracy] government, they allowed some hotels" to be built, said Thet Lwin Toh, a former chairman of the Union of Myanmar Travel Association. "So that is a heritage site, they remove and some are not allowed to extend their cottages and their building," he said. "But after the coup, some of the hotels, they extend." Under the former NLD administration, guidelines submitted to UNESCO in 2018 would evaluate Bagan's protected property zone hotels. To maintain the site's status as a world heritage site, the plan commits to relocating such hotels by 2028. But instead of being relocated, the city's Ancient Monuments Zone has become a site for thriving hotel renovation. The Royal Palace Hotel, owned by Bagan magnate and military crony Myo Min Oo, had room extensions, additional rooms and a swimming pool constructed. In the city's heritage zone, the Bagan Thande Hotel, Ayar Hotel, Amazing Bagan, and three other hotels with Chinese investors - Anavila, Balone Kyun River Hotel, and Ask My King - all underwent construction. The junta also began constructing drainage systems last month to handle the yearly flooding affecting pagodas without a proper assessment prior to the project, according to Thu Ya Aung, who formerly served as general secretary of the Myanmar Archeology Association. "[There's] the instant negative effects of destroying or loss of archeology strata. The cause of deterioration of pagodas and archeological elements may occur over a span of time in the future," he told Radio Free Asia. The management plan submitted to UNESCO by the NLD in 2018 included a commitment to conduct heritage impact assessments prior to "any conservation or development activities" affecting the site's value, monuments, cultural objects, or "suspected subsurface remains." UNESCO did not respond to RFA's request for comment on the country's commitments to their 2018 plan, but said in an email earlier this year that the office was not presently handling culture projects and that there was "no suitable person to respond" to inquiries. 'Tool for obtaining legitimacy' Despite persistent concerns, the junta is unlikely to intervene. After international flights resumed on April 22 of last year, the military rulers have attempted a number of tourism promotion strategies, all of which they say resulted in success. In the first seven months of this year, the junta's tourism ministry reported more than 250,000 domestic tourists and nearly 7,000 foreigners visited Bagan, a significant increase compared to 2022, when approximately 56,000 domestic tourists and less than 2,000 foreign tourists visited the ancient capital. And according to Thu Ya Aung, promoting tourism and attracting more people may not be the junta's only objective. "Bagan is a world heritage site and the junta would use it as a tool for obtaining their legitimacy [internationally] by continuing the renovation projects and submitting the states of conservation reports," he told RFA. This renders the current projects, expansion of hotels and preservation of stupas, equally veiled in mystery, and conservationists and civilians say that holding the junta accountable is becoming increasingly risky. "When they were doing renovations, they did not allow anyone to come in. They barricaded the entire compound. They don't even let the [Department of Archeology] government staff come in," Zay Myo Lin said. "The worst thing is now in Bagan you are riding a motorbike and you stop to take a picture - they will ask you, 'Why?' That [makes us] really insecure." Attempting to photograph such projects appears to make the authorities nervous. After several famous pagodas were flooded by Cyclone Mocha in May, district officials reportedly ordered local residents not to post photos on social media and instructed staff to chase down those who disobeyed. As a result, one photographer fled Bagan. Speaking up brings consequences. Zay Myo Lin, a former member of Bagan's technical expert team who advised other international teams on conservation projects, was fired for opposing the coup - and has now left the country for his own safety. "If I am in Myanmar, for sure I will be in jail. They would put me in jail because they want to shut my mouth for what they are doing," he said. "During this military junta, I'm not scared. I'm still talking about Bagan and trying to do safeguarding in Bagan." Edited by Taejun Kang 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 Junta threatens prison terms for unregistered SIM card users Critics say registering with an ID card leaves users open to surveillance. By RFA Burmese 2023.09.27 -- Myanmar's junta-controlled Ministry of Transport and Communications is threatening mobile phone service sellers and users with six months in prison if they don't register, or fraudulently register, SIM cards, state controlled newspapers said Wednesday. A ministry statement carried by the media, citing Section 72 of the telecommunications law, told users they needed to submit their personal information to register the cards. One Yangon resident told Radio Free Asia he had mixed feelings about the announcement. "This kind of systematic registration is good under normal circumstances but security has become a concern following the [Feb. 2021] military coup," said the person, who declined to give his name for security reasons. A technology expert who also requested anonymity said the junta could use artificial intelligence to eavesdrop on calls and texts in order to spot anti-junta conversations. Just over a year ago, the Department of Post and Telecommunications under the junta's Ministry of Transport and Communications said it would cancel all SIM cards that hadn't been registered with a national ID card and confiscate any remaining balance on the cards. The ministry said all SIM cards must be registered by Jan. 31, 2023. Although the practice is common in many countries, critics say Myanmar's military intends to use identity registration as a way to crack down on pro-democracy activists and the People's Defense Forces. In July 2021, the junta reportedly told major mobile operators to track the devices of dissidents and report on their behavior. The move prompted Norway's Telenor to abandon its Myanmar operations a few months later. A company named Shwe Byine Phyu, with reported ties to top junta leaders, stepped in to provide telecom services in Telenor's place under the "Atom" brand. Last year, Qatar-based telecom operator Oredoo, which is the third most popular brand in Myanmar, sold its investments for US$576 million to Singapore's Nine Communications, reportedly owned by a Myanmar national close to the military. The other two operators have even closer military ties. Myanmar Posts and Telecommunications (MPT) came entirely under the junta's control following the 2021 coup. Mytel is a joint venture between the Myanmar military and Vietnam's Ministry of Defense. Aung Pyae Sone, son of junta leader Min Aung Hlaing, holds Mytel shares. According to the list of telecommunications operators in 2021, there were 20 million Myanmar Posts and Telecommunication (MPT) SIM users, 18 million Atom users, 15 million Ooredoo users and 10 million Mytel users. Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Mike Firn and Elaine Chan. 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 RMAFC Aims to Strengthen Energy Sector Ties Between Russia and Myanmar Sputnik News 20230927 In their apparent effort to strengthen cooperation in the energy sector, the Russia-Myanmar Association for Friendship and Cooperation (RMAFC) led by its president Anatoly Bulochnikov, exchanged views on opportunities and issues with Myanmar's Union Minister for Electric Power and Union Minister for Energy yesterday. The delegation met U Nyan Tun, the country's Union Minister for Electric Power in Myanmar's capital Nay Pyi Taw yes-terday. During their meeting, they talked about the results achieved in several sectors thanks to cooperation between Russia and Myanmar, and how Russia has contributed to the development of electric power, before exchanging views on how Russian companies could cooperate in gener-ating electric power using hydro, solar, wind and thermal energy sources as well as Rus-sians' opportunities to assist with local companies in the electric power sector. The Union Minister for Energy U Ko Ko Lwin also met the RMAFC delegation in the capital. During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on the de-velopment of the energy sector in Myanmar, technical cooperation in inland and offshore petroleum and gas exploration, boosting co-operation between Myanmar and Russia in the energy sector, the opportunity for Russian compa-nies to distribute fuel in Myan-mar, technical support for pro-ducing fertilizer using charcoal as a raw material, issues about the sixth Russia International En-ergy Forum, establishing oil and gas pipelines, seismic works and opportunities for Russian compa-nies to cooperate in petroleum refining. The meetings were also attended by senior officials from the ministries. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pakistan floods a 'litmus test' for climate justice says Guterres 27 September 2023 - Top UN officials pledged support for Pakistan on Wednesday as it continues the painstaking process of rebuilding in the wake of last year's devastating floods. They also underscored the need to slash carbon emissions and bolster early warning systems to safeguard nations across the world which are becoming increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather. Speaking at the UN Headquarters, in New York, Secretary-General AntAnio Guterres said how the world responds now to Pakistan's struggles is a "litmus test" for climate justice. 'Double victim' "Pakistan needs and deserves massive support from the international community," he said. Despite contributing less than one per cent of global emissions, Pakistan's people face a staggering 15 times higher risk of dying from climate-related impacts. "Pakistan is a double victim - of climate chaos, and of our outdated and unjust global financial system that prevents middle-income countries from accessing much needed resources to invest in adaptation and resilience," he stressed. Epochal disaster Triggered by torrential monsoon rains, the floods submerged one third of Pakistan, claimed over 1,700 lives, destroyed two million homes, critical infrastructure, and affected 33 million people - half of them children. In the immediate aftermath, the Government, supported by the UN launched a flood response plan, requesting $816 million to support 9.5 million of the most affected people. That appeal is about 69 per cent funded. Even today, the response continues as UN and partners assist people in flood-ravaged areas, after further punishing rains fell this summer and Pakistan's economy struggles to recover. Agencies such as the UN Development Programme (UNDP) are also helping people rebuild livelihoods. 'Step forward' Dennis Francis, President of the General Assembly, urged Member States and the broader UN system to maintain their steadfast support for recovery and reconstruction endeavours. "I urge Member States and stakeholders to step forward and fill the funding gaps needed to mobilize resources," he said, emphasizing the need to address funding shortfalls for both climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction. According to UN Children's Fund (UNICEF), around eight million people (half of them children) in flood-affected areas, remain without access to safe water, 3.5 million children remain out of school, and about 1.5 million require lifesaving nutrition assistance. "The situation facing many people in flood-affected areas is dire, and it comes on top of other pre-existing problems and inequities," said Catherine Russell, UNICEF Executive Director. "But the challenges are not insurmountable ... we have a real opportunity to drive lasting positive change for Pakistan's children." Beating down the door Mr. Guterres reiterated his warning that climate chaos is knocking on everyone's door, adding that today, however, it's beating that door down, from the Horn of Africa to Canada. "Carbon emissions are heating our planet, killing people, destroying communities and devastating economies," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pakistani Ahmadis Face Growing Attacks on Places of Worship By Sarah Zaman September 27, 2023 On a hot and humid Friday this month in Shahdara Town, a congested neighborhood in Pakistan's second most populous city, Lahore, mosques began blaring calls for Muslims to demolish an Ahmadi place of worship. Hours earlier, some local clerics had called the police demanding action against the building because it resembled a traditional mosque. Within hours, laborers were hammering away at the arch and minarets of the minority worship place while police stood guard. "It was such a painful moment for us," said a member of the minority group who was present inside the building during the demolition. He asked that VOA identify him as Ahmad, because he feared for his safety. Pakistani Ahmadis, who are barred from calling themselves Muslims, say they are bracing for a wave of attacks this Friday, when the country celebrates the birth of Islam's Prophet Muhammad. The minority group has recorded nearly three dozen attacks on its places of worship this year, including break-ins and vandalism. Representatives say it is the highest number of such incidents since 1984, when a law was enacted prohibiting them from "indirectly or directly posing as Muslims." 'Legalized persecution' On September 7, 1974, Pakistan's parliament added the 2nd Amendment to the country's constitution, declaring Ahmadis a followers of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad a non-Muslims after months of agitation from religious political parties. A decade later, the parliament passed what is commonly known as Ordinance XX. The law prohibited the community from a host of activities, including performing any rituals or using any symbols associated with Islam. As arches and minarets are a common feature of mosques around the world, many in Pakistan interpret Ordinance XX to prohibit Ahmadis from using such features on their places of worship, which they are also not allowed to call "mosques." While the community has faced persecution and lethal attacks in Pakistan for decades, human rights activists blame the increased targeting of Ahmadi places of worship on an "environment of impunity." "The persecution of the Ahmadiyya community in Pakistan is almost wholly legalized," said Saroop Ijaz of the Human Rights Watch advocacy group. "The lack of consequences for these attacks has resulted in emboldening those who seek to attack them," Ijaz told VOA. Right-wing pressure Ahmadi community representatives blame Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan, or TLP, a far-right religious political party founded in 2015, for the spike in attacks on places of worship. "There are examples of them publicly threatening that this [demolition of minarets or arches] must be done by a specific date," said Amir Mahmood, a spokesperson for the Ahmadi community. Mahmood said the party has issued a deadline for law enforcement authorities in some cities of Punjab to demolish minarets of Ahmadi places of worship by Friday. Punjab, the most populous Pakistani province, has seen the bulk of anti-Ahmadi activity this year. Speaking to VOA, TLP spokesperson Yaseen Malik denied the party was issuing any threats. However, he called Ahmadis "blasphemers." In Pakistan, blasphemy is a crime punishable by death. TLP leaders and members routinely use offensive anti-Ahmadi language in rallies and gatherings and call for the killing of blasphemers. Since its founding, the party has staged several protests against actions it perceived as blasphemous or pro-Ahmadi. Police role The Ahmadi community accuses the police of capitulating to the demands of extremist forces. Police, "in the name of maintaining law and order," are "forcing ... members of the Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya to tear down the minarets of their places of worship," said community spokesperson Mahmood. Ahmad, a witness of the demolition in Shahdara Town, told VOA the laborers who tore down the arch and minarets had been called by the police. Speaking to VOA, a senior area police officer who did not want his name to be used because of the sensitivity of the issue rejected the charge, though he admitted the police worried about possible mob violence. "We have to maintain law and order, and we try to resolve the issue as well as prevent any incident that could cause unrest at the national or local level," said the officer, who maintained that police were present on the scene to ensure the security of the Ahmadi residents. In a statement on X, formerly Twitter, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan accused law enforcement and the religious far right of "systematically and deliberately" shrinking the space for Ahmadis after the Shahdara Town incident. The rights watchdog found police complicit in similar incidents last year. In a written statement to VOA, Punjab police rejected the allegation. 'Contempt of court' A decision of the Lahore High Court in August said the 1984 prohibition on building Ahmadi places of worship did not allow authorities to destroy or alter structures built before then. "When our people show that order to police, requesting them to respect it, sadly, the police do not consider it," lamented Mahmood, saying the demolitions amounted to "contempt of court." Deputy Inspector General Muhammad Waqas Nazir, the Punjab police information officer, told VOA in written comments that his force acts "within the ambit of the law" when handling complaints lodged under the 1984 prohibition. As Ahmadis brace for a possible wave of attacks on their places of worship Friday, Human Rights Watch's Ijaz said the persistent violation of Ahmadis' civil rights "does not reflect well on the writ of the state or the seriousness to protect law and order." Ahmad, who must pray in a damaged building because of the attack earlier this month, told VOA that despite fear, he wanted to remain hopeful for a better future. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address South Korea's Dilemma: Is North Korea the Only Threat? By Christy Lee September 27, 2023 Seoul should be ready to deal with threats beyond North Korea as Beijing's belligerence toward Taiwan and Pyongyang's threats to South Korea keep growing, analysts said. South Korea's military readiness has long been directed to the north, as was displayed in a parade of its modern military hardware through Seoul on Tuesday to mark the 75th Armed Forces Day commemorating the founding of the country's armed forces. The route marched through the main commercial and business district and ended at the Gwanghwamun area, which is the gate into the heart of Seoul. North Korea conducts military parades several times a year, but it was Seoul's first since 2013. Speaking at Seoul Air Base in Seongnam before the parade, President Yoon Suk Yeol said South Korea would bolster the country's defense industry and warned North Korea its regime would be "brought to an end by an overwhelming response" if it used nuclear weapons. South Korea manufactures arms, such as the tanks, drones and ballistic missiles featured in the parade, to defend against its main adversary, North Korea. North Korea has been conducting a series of missile launches this year, including several intercontinental ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and satellites that failed to take off. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said at a key parliamentary meeting that the regime's "nuclear force-building policy has been made permanent as the basic law of the state," according to the country's state-run KCNA on Thursday. Kim also blamed the "triangular military alliance" among the U.S., South Korea and Japan for elevating threats by forming an "Asian-version NATO." Analysts say that while South Korea is taking a stronger military posture against North Korea, its defense strategies must also deal with threats from China, especially as a possibility exists for a two-front conflict initiated by the two autocratic states. "South Korea absolutely should prepare to deal with threats beyond North Korea," said Markus Garlauskas, former national intelligence officer for North Korea on the National Intelligence Council at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. He's now director of the Indo-Pacific Initiative of the Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security at the Atlantic Council. "It's clear from South Korea's defense white papers and its defense acquisitions that Seoul has already begun to prepare to deal with threats beyond North Korea," Garlauskas said. "But Seoul has been understandably reluctant to be too explicit about what countries it finds threatening. However, this reluctance is slowly fading. China poses an increasingly clear threat to the security interests of South Korea, and I do expect that, over time, Seoul will be more willing to directly acknowledge and confront this threat." Garlauskas wrote in a paper published in August about the possibility of a two-front nuclear war breaking out in East Asia - one initiated by a Chinese invasion of Taiwan and the other by a North Korean attack on the South. "The U.S. and its allies can no longer think about conflicts with the PRC and North Korea in isolation from each other" but "must take urgent action to prepare for the possibility of facing limited nuclear attacks in an East Asia conflict scenario," he said in the paper. South Korea's defense white paper issued under the Yoon government in February described North Korea as its "enemy" for the first time in six years. It mentioned China in the context of its rivalry with the U.S. but did not specify Beijing as posing a direct threat. At the same time, however, Seoul said it aims to integrate defense forces and align its capabilities with countries that share its values to respond to "complex security threats" as the "security environment is increasingly redefined by simultaneous and complex threats." In a joint statement that South Korea, the U.S. and Japan issued at the trilateral summit at Camp David in August, the three countries expressed concern about China's "dangerous and aggressive" moves to support its maritime claims and opposed "any unilateral attempts to change the status quo" in the Indo-Pacific. In a separate document, the three countries committed to consult in coordinating their responses to what they consider "threats affecting our collective interests and security," without defining the limits of threats. Leaving open the kinds of threats in the commitment-to-consult pledge South Korea made with the U.S. and Japan broadened the boundaries of threats beyond North Korea to which Seoul could respond upon consultations, analysts said. The commitment-to-consult pledge "acknowledges that Japan and Korea face common threats, especially but not exclusively from North Korea," said Ralph Cossa, president emeritus and WSD-Handa chair in peace studies at the Pacific Forum. James Przystup, senior fellow at Hudson Institute's Japan Chair focusing on alliance management in the Indo-Pacific, said, "The commitment to consult with respect to threats affecting our collective interest and security does broaden potential actions on the part of the ROK but does not require any 'action' beyond consultations." He continued, "The Camp David statement represents the continuing evolution of ROK's strategic thinking with respect to China and alignment with the U.S. and Japan." Some analysts said a possible invasion of Taiwan by China would be likely to change South Korea's defense against North Korea because military assets of U.S. Forces Korea could be redirected to defend the island. Taiwan has been governed independently of China since 1949. Beijing views the self-governing island as its own territory. Tensions between Taipei and Beijing are increasing, and Taiwan said China has sent dozens of fighter jets, bombers and warships near its waters and airspace in recent weeks that are "getting out of hand." "As soon as the U.S. diverts some of its resources that would otherwise go to South Korea" in defense of the North, "South Korean defense is weakened regardless of whether any South Korean forces go," said Bruce Bennett, a senior defense analyst at the Rand Corporation. He said that if the U.S. begins to deploy its forces to defend Taiwan, China is likely to "attack U.S. military bases, especially the ones in southern Japan, like the Kadena Air Base." Bennett added, "The very first attack on those bases" could "cause the mutual defense treaty of South Korea and the U.S. to be invoked, because the mutual defense treaty says that if the either side is attacked, the other side will take actions necessary to support its ally" once the ally decides to act. Cossa, a member of the ASEAN Regional Forum Experts and Eminent Persons Group, said, "One major concern the U.S. should have in the event of a Taiwan conflict is North Korea opening up a second front" and "the reverse is also true if in the event of a Korea conflict." "As a result," he said, "a strong defensive posture would need to be maintained on the peninsula, perhaps augmented by others who are part of the U.N. Command." In August, as Yoon met with key U.N. Command officials, he said North Korea considers the UNC "the biggest barrier" to unifying the Korean Peninsula under its communist rule. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Navalny Says He Will Be Transferred To Strictest Prison Cell For 12 Months By RFE/RL's Russian Service September 27, 2023 Jailed Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny says he was informed a day after a court rejected his appeal against a 19-year sentence that he will be transferred to the strictest possible prison cell for one year. "Yesterday, right after my appeal, I was taken to a commission and told that due to my incorrigibility I will be transferred to an 'EPKT' for a period of 12 months," he said on September 27 on X, formerly Twitter, referring to cells widely considered to have the harshest confinement conditions. "A year of EPKT is the strictest possible punishment in all kinds of prisons," he said. It was unclear if the punishment will be carried out in a special-regime prison or in the maximum-security IK-6 prison 250 kilometers east of Moscow where he is currently held. Navalny has been in and out of solitary confinement in recent months, and his allies say his health has deteriorated. Last month he had his sentence more than doubled to 19 years, with the court also ruling to send him to a harsher "special-regime" facility, rather than the maximum-security prison where he currently is held. A court in Moscow on September 26 rejected Navalny's appeal of the sentence, which came after the Moscow City Court on August 4 convicted him of extremism charges, ruling that his previous sentences will be served concurrently. The ruling came 18 months into Russia's invasion in Ukraine, which brought with it an unprecedented crackdown on dissenting voices. Navalny has repeatedly denounced the Kremlin's military offensive from behind bars and called on Russians not to lose "the will to resist." The charges against Navalny are widely seen as retribution for his efforts to expose what he describes as the pervasive lawlessness, corruption, and repression by Russian President Vladimir Putin and his political system. Navalny was Russia's loudest opposition voice and galvanized huge anti-government rallies before he was jailed. His previous sentence was handed down in 2021 after he arrived in Moscow from Germany, where he had been recovering from a poisoning attack he blamed on the Kremlin. Before the most recent conviction, he was serving a combined 11 1/2 years for embezzlement and violating the terms of his parole while he was in Germany being treated for the poisoning. With reporting by AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-navalny- strictest-prison-regime/32613095.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 personal sanctions against members of Britain's military and political establishment, media and academic community 27 September 2023 09:38 1888-27-09-2023 In the context of London's anti-Russia policy, including its active use of the mechanism of personal sanctions and all-round support for the neo-Nazi regime in Kiev, it has been decided to extend the Russian stop list to include members of Britain's military and political establishment, media and academic community (23 people altogether). The list of British nationals who will be denied entry into the Russian Federation incudes, in part, Chief of the Defence Staff Antony Radakin, who is responsible for the training of Ukrainian service members in the UK; Chair of the Joint Intelligence Committee Madeleine Alessandri, who is involved in shaping London's strategy in Ukraine; and Cressida Hogg, Chair of the British defence company BAE Systems Plc. Personal sanctions have been approved against the staff of British political analysis centres, which are collecting and analysing information for fighting Russia, such as the Royal United Services Institute (Justin Bronk, Sidharth Kaushaland, Nick Reynolds), the Henry Jackson Society (Alan Mendoza) and the Civitas Institute for the Study of Civil Society (Robert Clark). We would like to reiterate that we will strongly retaliate against any British attempts to increase the sanctions pressure on Russia. We will continue to extend the Russian stop list in response to London's hostile actions. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Defence Minister inspects fulfilment of the state defence order at a defence industry enterprise in Moscow region 27.09.2023 Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation General of the Army Sergei Shoigu has inspected the fulfilment of the state defence order at Tactical Missiles Corporation defence industry enterprise in Moscow region. The Head of the Russian Defence Ministry together with the Governor of Moscow region Andrei Vorobyov inspected production departments of the enterprise and the technological process of assembling high-precision weapons of mass destruction. Boris Obnosov, CEO of the Corporation, reported to General of the Army Sergei Shoigu on the fulfilment of the instructions of the Russian Minister of Defence to increase production rates, which were given as a result of an inspection in March 2023. Over the last six months, the output volumes of high-precision means of defeat have been increased twofold, and for certain nomenclatures of products, 3.5 and 5 times. The output volumes have increased due to modernisation of production, increase in the number of personnel, increase in labor productivity and transition to a 24/7 working schedule. CEO of the Corporation reported that additionally specialists from other cooperative enterprises with relevant specialised education were involved: 'They come here from Orenburg, from Perm, we work very closely with local educational institutions with technical schools, with the Corporation's training centre. We have recently taken 40 graduates from there'. The Corporation's management presented to the Russian Minister of Defence the latest weapons received as part of the operational development and modernisation of high-precision weapons that have been put into mass production. Following the results of the work, the Head of the Russian Defence Ministry held a meeting with the participation of the company's management and the relevant military authorities. The Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation heard a report by Boris Obnosov, CEO of the Corporation, on the progress of the project to develop a highly mobile MLRS equipped with guided rocket projectiles with enhanced accuracy characteristics and guided interspecies glider munitions. Russian Minister of Defence Sergei Shoigu noted that Tactical Missile Corporation is developing for the benefit of the Armed Forces modern aviation weapons, including those belonging to the high-precision nomenclature. 'Tactical Missile Corporation occupies the first and advanced positions, we very much hope that the gained rates will be maintained not only in 2024, but also in some areas they will be increased. To date, our joint work is yielding results, we have an increase in production volume, not in percent, but in times, and all this is in high demand in the special military operation zone,' Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation noted. 'What we have seen today and what we are planning to launch in the coming months, we will now consider in detail. What to help you with and what to support you with, in addition to solving financial issues related to the state defence order. Naturally, there are other issues as well these are specialists who have been attracted from other enterprises, from other cities and from other regions. Quite young people are doing very serious and important tasks,' Sergei Shoigu said. The Head of the Russian Defence Ministry set tasks to the management of the enterprise to continue the fulfilment of the state defence order taking into account the comments and suggestions. Earlier in March 2023, Russian Defene Minister General of the Army Sergei Shoigu inspected the progress of the fulfilment of the state defence order at Tactical Missile Corporation in Moscow region. In the course of the inspection, the Corporation was tasked with increasing the rate of production output this year and doubling the volume of production of high-precision weapons. Department for Media Affairs and Information NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address What are Kalibr and Kh-101 Cruise Missiles and What's Made Them Effective in Ukraine? Sputnik News 20230927 Ilya Tsukanov NATO countries continue to climb up the escalation ladder with Russia, suppling Kiev with ever deadlier and more advanced weapons. Kiev reportedly now wants Western analogues of Russia's best cruise missiles, the Kalibr and Kh-101. What are the missiles' characteristics? Why does Ukraine's military want them? Sputnik explains. The nearly $100 billion in military assistance Western countries have now provided to Ukraine, including billions for short, medium and long-range artillery, multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS), and cruise missiles, hasn't quenched the Ukrainian military's ambitions, with Kiev seeking NATO equivalents of Russia's ultra-long range cruise missiles. "We want an analogue of the Russian Kalibr and Kh-101s," a source in Ukraine's General Staff told British business media this week. The official highlighted the Russian weapons' speed, maneuverability and stealth characteristics, saying they make the weapons difficult to intercept, and stressed that Kiev remains willing to use its Western-provided long-range strike weapons "as soon as we have a target and we can hit it." What is the Kalibr Cruise Missile? The Kalibr (lit. 'Caliber') is the name given on an entire family of Russian anti-ship, anti-submarine, land attack, submarine, ship and (in the future) ground-launched cruise missiles, with an operational range between 220 and 4,500 km, and a payload of between 400-500 kilograms of high explosives, or a nuclear weapon. The Kalibr's development began in the 1980s, when the Soviet military tasked Sverdlovsk-based Novator Design Bureau (now part of Almaz-Antey) with the creation of a new, non-nuclear version of the KS-122 strategic cruise missile; development work on the new missile, featuring supersonic boost capability in the final stage of flight, was completed in 1990. The Kalibr made its first public appearance at a military expo in 1993, but its delivery into the Russian military was slowed by to the collapse of the USSR and deep cuts in military spending. The missile's major advantage turned out to be its modular design, and capability to be adopted for use against a variety of different types of targets, and launched by various sea and air-based platforms. This, combined with its impressive range and speed characteristics, allowed it to survive the post-Soviet transition period intact. Russia began producing the Kalibr in the mid-1990s, with engineers developing over a dozen domestic and export variants through past two-and-a-half decades. The Kalibr's first operational deployment occurred in 2015, when missiles were used to target terrorist militias in Syria, launching from small Russian Navy corvettes in the Caspian Sea, as well as heavy frigate warships and submarines in the Mediterranean. After the escalation of the Donbass crisis into a full-blown NATO proxy war in Ukraine in early 2022, Russia began firing dozens of Kalibrs at military targets across Ukraine, with the missiles targeting command points, air bases, and air defense systems. Last fall, Kalibrs were used to target Ukraine's energy infrastructure in response to repeated attacks by Kiev on Russian civilian infrastructure, including the Crimean Bridge. Russian military observers have praised Kalibr as among "the most effective" long-range missile used in the Ukrainian crisis to date, with their autonomous inertial guidance system, resistance to jamming, ability to hug close to the ground during flight, and to accelerate in the final stage using a unique maneuver, dramatically increasing the missiles' ability to penetrate enemy air and missile defenses and hit their targets. What is the NATO Equivalent of the Kalibr? The closest mass-produced NATO analogue to the Kalibr is the Tomahawk - the universal American long-range, all-weather subsonic cruise missile. Introduced in the 1980s and featuring an array of variants, the missile can be armed with either a 450 kg conventional payload, or a W80 low-to-intermediate yield nuclear warhead, and has an operational range of between 460 and 2,500 km, depending on the modification. While Russia as exported variants of the Kalibr to at least four countries (Algeria, China, India and Vietnam) Washington has strictly limited the Tomahawk's availability to allies, so far only exporting it to the UK. The Tomahawk has several known disadvantages against the Kalibr, including its steady subsonic flight speed, which makes it more vulnerable to enemy air defenses, inferior precision and range characteristics, and shoddy performance record (as demonstrated in Iraq in 2003, when up to 30 Tomahawks were shot down by Iraqi air defenses, and in Syria in 2017 and 2018, where well over half of the US, British and French missiles launched failed to reach their targets). Russian military historian Yuri Knutov, director of the Museum of Air Defenses in Moscow region, says the Kalibr's speed characteristics, and especially its ability to alter its speed during flight, makes it stand out when compared against NATO analogues. "The Tomahawks have a more or less stable flight speed, while if we're talking about the Kalibr, they can modify flight speed across a fairly broad range," Knutov told Sputnik, adding that the Kalibr's unique bell curve-style maneuver during the final stage of flight can make the missile "practically impervious to enemy air defenses." Kalibrs are also equipped with modern algorithms designed specifically to compensate for and evade modern air defenses, with these capabilities providing the missiles with "quite a serious advantage," according to the expert. "These missiles are not very vulnerable to Ukraine's air and missile defense systems. That's the most important thing," Knutov stressed, pointing out that the Kalibr is "constantly undergoing modifications," with a new variant with a one-ton warhead and improved accuracy and speed characteristics in the works. What is the Kh-101 Missile, and Does It Have a NATO Analogue? The Kh-101 (known as the Kh-102 in its thermonuclear payload variant) is a strategic, ultra-long-range cruise missile introduced into service with the Russian military in 2013, and developed by the legendary Raduga Design Bureau (known for development work on Russia's first hypersonic weapons) going back to the 1970s and 1980s. Capable of flying up to 5,500 km, and featuring a 400 kg warhead in its conventional variant, and a 250 kiloton-to-one megaton warhead in nuclear mode, the Kh-101/102 is launched from Russia's strategic bomber fleet, including the workhorse Tupolev Tu-95, the Tupolev Tu-160 White Swan, and the Sukhoi Su-34 supersonic medium-range fighter-bomber. The Russian missile's range characteristics are far superior to any cruise missile fielded anywhere in the world, with only the now retired American AGM-129 Advanced Cruise Missile (ACM) coming anywhere close, with its range of up to 3,700 km. Carried exclusively by B-52H Stratofortress bombers, the missiles, introduced in 1990, were removed from service and decommissioned by the US Air Force in 2012 due to reliability issues and high maintenance costs. Like the Kalibr, the Kh-101 was first deployed over Syria between 2015-2017, targeting terrorist strongholds, camps and command centers. Since 2022, the missiles have occasionally been deployed to attack strategic targets behind the frontlines in Ukraine. The Kh-101 is equipped with radar signature reduction technologies, an inertial guidance system fitted with optical-electronic correction, and a homing head that's used for the final stage of flight to reduce the effectiveness of jamming. The Kh-101's trajectory can be corrected mid-flight. With the AGM-129 ACM retired, the closest thing to the Kh-101 NATO's got is the US AGM-86 Air-Launched Cruise Missile (ALCM), introduced in the early 1980s and featuring an operational range of over 2,400 km. However, unlike the Kh-101, the only variant of the ALCM now in service (the AGM-86B) is available only in a nuclear option, and is launched from B-52H, which eliminates the opportunity for it to be used in conventional strikes, much less being handed over to Washington's clients in Kiev. US aerospace giant RTX is working on a successor to ALCM, the AGM-181 Long Range Stand Off Weapon (LRSO), but the missile, which is expected to have a 2,500 km range, is also set to be able to fire only nuclear munitions. That means when it comes to comparing the Kh-101 against a NATO system, it comes back to Tomahawk (the limitations of which have been outlined above). China's CJ-20 cruise missile (with a range up to 2,000 km), North Korea's Hasal-2 (2,000 km), Iran's Paveh (1,650 km), India's Nirbhay (1,500 km), France's Missile de Croisiere Naval (1,400 km) have all either surpassed or approached the very best Tomahawks available in terms of range characteristics. The truly "global reach" of Russian cruise missiles like the Kalibr and the Kh-101 has prompted Russian officials to stress that these capabilities have all but eliminated Russia's need to mimic the US and NATO's strategy of dotting the globe with military bases. "Why should we need a [permanent] base," President Putin asked in 2015, commenting on Russian operations in Syria. "Should we need to reach somebody, we can do so without a base," he said. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address International Anti-Terrorist Drills Kick Off in Russia's Primorye Sputnik News 20230927 Servicemen from Russia, ASEAN countries, and partners in the ADMM-Plus format have started combat alignment at the international anti-terrorist drills at a training range in Primorye, located in the Far East region of Russia, the press service of the Eastern Military District reported. Units of the Armed Forces of Russia and 11 countries of the Asia-Pacific region are taking part in the maneuvers. According to Admiral Viktor Liina, commander of the Pacific Fleet, the exercises consist of theoretical and practical parts. During the drills, combat aircraft, military aviation helicopters, drones, tanks, armored personnel carriers, and other military and special equipment will be used. The drills will last until September 30, with a total number of about 700 people taking part in them. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, the maneuvers are aimed at "strengthening and promoting regional cooperation between ASEAN countries and their dialogue partners in the field of counter-terrorism" and exchanging experience in this area. The exercises will involve units of the Eastern Military District, as well as task forces and military contingents of the Armed Forces of the State of Brunei Darussalam, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, the Republic of India, the Republic of Indonesia, the Kingdom of Cambodia, the People's Republic of China, the Lao People's Democratic Republic, Malaysia, the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, the Kingdom of Thailand, and the Republic of the Philippines. ADMM-Plus is a mechanism of interaction between defense agencies of ASEAN member states and dialogue partners, which include Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Russia, the United States, and India. ADMM-Plus was established in 2010 at the initiative of Vietnam. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Terrorist Attack on Nord Stream De Facto Organized by US, UK - Kremlin Sputnik News 20230927 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The terrorist attack on the Nord Stream pipelines was somehow organized by the United States and the United Kingdom, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday. On Tuesday, Pulitzer Prize-winning US investigative journalist Seymour Hersh published a report said that the US involved in the blowing up of the Nord Stream pipelines left no traces, no significant information about the mission was entered into any computer in the United States. "It is not so much important who typed on what mechanical typewriters, it is important that de facto such a terrorist attack against critical energy infrastructure, which belongs to an international joint venture, was somehow organized by the United States, the United Kingdom, of course. And they are somehow involved in this terrorist attack," Peskov told a briefing. A British newspaper reported on Tuesday, citing findings by Norway's NORSAR seismic data center, that there were four blasts on the Nord Stream pipelines, and not two, as it was previously believed. One explosion occurred southeast of the Danish island of Bornholm, and the other three occurred northeast of the island, the report said. The seismology center also does not rule out the possibility that there could have been more explosions. The Nord Stream pipelines, built to deliver gas under the Baltic Sea from Russia to the EU, were hit by explosions in September 2022. The pipelines' operator, Nord Stream AG, said that the damage was unprecedented and it was impossible to estimate the timeframe for repairing them. Denmark, Germany, and Norway have left Russia out of their investigations into the attacks, prompting Moscow to launch its own investigation. Russia designated the attacks as international terrorism. No official results of the investigations have yet been announced, but Hersh published a report in February saying the explosions were organized by the US government with the support of the authorities in Norway. Washington has denied any involvement in the attack. In addition, the Kremlin spokesman commented on the words of former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on the expansion of NATO addressed to Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying that it is an attempt to substitute concepts. Earlier in the day, Clinton said "too bad, Vladimir, you brought it on yourself," commenting on the expansion of NATO, according to a video published by an American news agency. "Mrs. Clinton is known in our country for her attempts to turn everything upside down and substitute concepts," Peskov told a briefing. In this case, it is worth recalling all the waves of NATO expansion, the spokesman said. "As for the sequence of actions of President Putin, it is probably necessary to remind Mrs. Clinton of the numerous waves of NATO expansion and the movement of the alliance's military infrastructure closer to our border, then President Putin's insistent proposals to Western countries to discuss this situation and come out to sign a certain document, the draft of which was, by the way, prepared by the Russian side, and a decisive refusal of Western countries to discuss anything. And here it becomes absolutely clear what was the reason for the special military operation that is being carried out and continues," Peskov said. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Syrian minister denounces 'American chaos', says States must respect the UN Charter 26 September 2023 - In remarks on Tuesday to the UN General Assembly, Syrian Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Bassam Sabbagh underscored the need to build a multipolar world order that achieves sustainable development for all and balance in international relations, including through reforming institutions such as the Security Council. "The policies of creative chaos adopted by successive American Administrations in our region to serve their geopolitical and selfish interests have led to destabilization and insecurity," he said in his remarks on the final day of the Assembly's general debate. He said United States has spent billions of dollars to demolish and destroy development achievements made over decades and contributed to the emergence of a phenomenon of extremism and terrorism. The UN Charter and other international instruments had not been spared the impact of this "American chaos", the Vice Minister continued, arguing that the past decade had seen "increasing tendencies to misinterpret and misapply provisions of the Chater... manipulation of international agreements and treaties and politicization of human rights." Syrian Golan One of the main tenets of the UN Charter was the sovereign integrity of all states, he continued, and spotlighted in that regard "violations committed by Israel in the occupied Golan," and pointing out that any acquisition of the territory of others by force is an occupation, "and any illegal military presence on the territory of any sovereign state is a clear violation of this Charter and a clear violation of international law that "must end immediately and unconditionally." The Vice Minister said that that Israel has occupied Arab lands in Palestine and the Syrian Golan since 1967 until now, has changed the demographic composition and institutional structure, especially through attempts to forcefully impose Israeli citizenship on the people of the occupied Golan, not to mention the plundering of the Golan's natural resources and the seizure of the lands of Syrian farmers." "It is the most heinous form of grave violations of the United Nations Charter and international humanitarian law," the stated. He condemned in the strongest terms those "Israeli crimes and attacks" and denounced what he described as "the silence of some countries that declare themselves protectors of international law and human rights law." He affirmed his country's legitimate right to restore the entire occupied Syrian Golan up to the line of June 4, 1967. Earthquake response He went on to say that the Syrian Government continues to make efforts to deal with the effects of the devastating earthquake that struck Syria this past February, and the quake added a burden to the humanitarian crisis resulting from the ongoing war since 2011. The Vice Minister said that the earthquake destroyed hundreds of buildings, infrastructure, and service facilities, caused thousands of victims and injuries, and made tens of thousands homeless, noting that the Syrian government was keen to provide all the necessary facilities for the arrival of humanitarian aid and relief workers to all affected areas. He expressed appreciation to the UN for launching an urgent humanitarian appeal to respond to catastrophic repercussions of the earthquake. "The United Nations and international organizations working in Syria granted open approvals to facilitate and accelerate the procedures for the entry of emergency relief supplies to support those affected, including opening border crossings by a sovereign decision to facilitate the response," Sabbagh added. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Envoy calls on US, Europe to end 'economic terrorism' against Syria Iran Press TV Wednesday, 27 September 2023 2:49 AM Syria has called for the lifting of sanctions imposed by the United States and its European allies on other countries, describing them as "economic terrorism," which must end. Syria's UN Ambassador Bassam Sabbagh made the remarks while addressing the 78th UN General Assembly session on Tuesday. He said Western sanctions were illegal, immoral, and inhumane Sabbagh added that Washington's policy in West Asia has destabilized the region and led to the emergence of terrorism. He said the US undermined the Charter of the UN and other international agreements. He called on the UN member states to join forces in establishing a new multipolar world order. On Friday, China called on countries to lift their "illegal unilateral sanctions" imposed on Syria amid efforts by Beijing to increase its economic engagements with Damascus. A joint Chinese-Syrian statement published by the foreign ministry in Beijing said that China will try its best to help Syria's reconstruction efforts more than a decade after the Arab country became involved in a devastating war with foreign-backed militants. "China opposes interference by external forces in Syria's internal affairs... and urges all relevant countries to lift illegal unilateral sanctions against Syria," said the statement. The statement came during a six-day visit by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to China, a first since the start of the Syrian war in 2011. Syria has been a target of US sanctions since 1979. Washington and its Western allies have dramatically tightened their economic sanctions and restrictions on Damascus after 2011 when the Arab country found itself in the grip of rampant foreign-backed militancy and terrorism. The US coercive measures intensified even further with the passing of the Caesar Act in 2019, which targeted any individual and business that participated either directly or indirectly in Syria's reconstruction efforts. Envoy censures Israel's violation of UN Charter Sabbagh also censured Israel's violation of the UN Charter and international law through the occupation of Syria's Golan Heights. He reaffirmed his country's inviolable right to restore its sovereignty over the entire occupied Golan. Ambassador Sabbagh went on to say that the repeated Israeli attacks on Syrian cities, ports, and civilian airports are pushing the region to unprecedented levels of tension. Elsewhere in his remarks, Sabbagh said Syria has not and will not spare any effort to stand by the Palestinian people in their struggle to restore their rights, especially their right to establish their independent state with al-Quds Jerusalem as its capital. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address A more sustainable approach is needed for lifesaving cross-border aid into Syria: UK statement at the Security Council Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Syria. 27 September 2023 Thank you, President, and I thank Special Envoy Pedersen, Director Wosornu, and IRC Vice President Jarbawi for their briefings. With humanitarian needs in Syria at their highest in years, it is critical that the Council have before us the facts, as well as the insights from your teams. First, the UK welcomes the news that aid is once again reaching the people of north-west Syria, 70 days after Russia vetoed the cross-border resolution. We are clear that those deliveries must be secure and unhindered, and delivered in accordance with the humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence. But once again the UN is having to develop contingency plans for when permissions for Bab al-Rai and Bab al-Salam expire in 45 days' time. Short-term agreements are not a sustainable solution for the people of north-west Syria who rely on the UN's life-saving aid. And those short-term arrangements distract humanitarian teams on the ground with constant contingencies and planning for worst-case scenarios when their most pressing priority is to engage with the people who need their support. We do need a more sustainable approach for the lifeline of cross-border assistance. Turning to political developments. We are following closely the demonstrations in Sweida in defence of their political and economic rights. It is disappointing that despite readmission to the Arab League, Syria refuses to abide by the decisions of this Council and to engage meaningfully in the political process. The trafficking of large quantities of captagon across the region continues unabated: this month we have seen some of the largest captagon seizures on record. We therefore urge the regime to begin to engage seriously in the political process established by UNSCR 2254, including the early convening of the Constitutional Committee. The peace and stability of the region depend on it. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Joint Statement by the United Nations Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator for Syria, Mr Adam Abdelmoula, and the Regional Humanitarian Coordinator for the Syria Crisis, Mr Muhannad Hadi, on the strike on Mehkan water station UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Damascus and Amman, 27 September 2023 -- We are deeply alarmed over the recent strike that damaged the Mehkan water station in Deir-ez-Zor. On 25 September, the Mehkan water station was reportedly damaged in an attack, rendering it out of service. The attack occurred as a new resurgence of hostilities was reported in Deir-ez-Zor on 25 September, following a period of relative calm. According to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, 23 civilians were killed and many more injured between late August and early September. As a result of the damage to the water station, 17,000 people, including those who had been formerly displaced to the area following the previous round of hostilities, are without access to drinking water. The UN in Syria calls on all parties to take necessary precautions to avoid damaging civilian infrastructure and to take appropriate measures to ensure civilians are protected from harm in accordance with International Humanitarian Law and International Human Rights Law. Depriving vulnerable people of a safe water source endangers their wellbeing and health and further exacerbates a cholera outbreak. The humanitarian community continues to prioritize emergency assistance on the ground. The UN in Syria reminds all parties that all people, everywhere, have the right to safe and clean water, and to a safe, healthy and sustainable environment. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ms. Edem Wosornu, OCHA Director of Operations and Advocacy, on behalf of Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Mr. Martin Griffiths UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Briefing to the Security Council on the humanitarian situation in Syria 27 September 2023 As delivered Thank you, Mr. President. From the humanitarian side, allow me to begin, today, on a positive note. Last week saw the resumption of United Nations humanitarian deliveries from TArkiye into north-west Syria through the Bab al-Hawa crossing. Since then, 65 trucks have crossed, carrying health and nutrition items and other vital relief supplies for more than two million people. We expect more trucks to cross into the north-west in the coming days and weeks. These are the first aid deliveries through Bab al-Hawa since 10 July, when the authorization under Security Council Resolution 2672 lapsed. United Nations personnel have also been able to go through this crossing, thereby enhancing our ability to support partners, monitor projects, engage with the communities we serve, and strengthen the protection environment through presence on the ground. In the interim, the United Nations and our partners have also used pre-positioned supplies and deliveries through the Bab al-Salam and al-Ra'ee border crossings to sustain programmes throughout north-west Syria. Bab al-Hawa, however, remains the central channel for cross-border assistance from TArkiye into north-west Syria. This development means that we can carry out deliveries at the scale required to meet the urgent needs of over four million people - 80 per cent of them women and children. The reopening of Bab al-Hawa for UN cross-border aid is the result of an understanding with the Government of Syria on the principled delivery of UN cross-border assistance; of operational and security assurances from the de facto authorities in Idlib; and of consultations with a range of Member States, including the Republic of TArkiye, and donors, NGOs, and other partners. Mr. President, The cross-border response extends beyond the movement of trucks. It means better functioning of schools, health facilities and sanitation systems, and improved access to safe drinking water and life-saving protection assistance. It also includes the delivery of cash-based assistance. Our commitment to providing humanitarian aid by all means possible, whether crossline or cross-border, remains unchanged. Mr. President, As the Special Envoy said, an escalation of hostilities in northern Syria earlier this month provided a stark reminder of the criticality of sustaining humanitarian assistance. Renewed hostilities in the last three weeks in the north and north-east of Aleppo have temporarily displaced, as previously referred to, tens of thousands of people, many of whom have had to sleep in the open due to overcrowding in displacement camps. Civilian casualties have also been reported, including women and children. And 32 schools have had to stop educational activities; 14 of them were used as temporary shelters. In addition, fighting in the north-east left 23 civilians reportedly killed and many more injured in Deir-ez-Zor Governorate late last month, according to the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. Tens of thousands of people were displaced, while those who remained faced shortages of food and medicines. On Monday, a water station in Deir-ez-Zor was damaged because of continuing hostilities, leaving at least 17,000 people - many of them displaced from other areas - without access to safe drinking water. Humanitarian workers are focused on getting food, water, health and shelter assistance to affected people. Local organizations, including grassroots women's organizations, play a critical role in ensuring this assistance equitably reaches those in need. I strongly urge all the parties to these hostilities to uphold international humanitarian law and take all feasible precautions to avoid and minimize civilian harm. Mr. President, distinguished delegates of the members of the Council, Across the country, families are grappling with the continuing strain of a deepening economic crisis, again as Mr. Pedersen mentioned. The Syrian pound has lost more than half its value since the start of this year, while prices of essential food commodities have nearly doubled. At the beginning of this year, again, half the population - some 12 million people - was food insecure. The situation has continued to worsen, and if these economic trends persist, we will likely see millions more slide into food insecurity. Mr. President, All this is happening against the backdrop of a sharp decline in the resources for the humanitarian response. We have just three months left in this year, and yet the Humanitarian Response Plan for Syria remains less than 30 per cent funded. This means many humanitarian agencies are being forced to make painful decisions. As reported in July, the World Food Programme has had to cut assistance to 2.5 million people, while halving the standard ration for others. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees is having to also cut back and scale back essential assistance programmes, including interventions to respond to gender-based violence. In the north-west, some 17 safe spaces for women and children were closed in the last few months, and two dozen more will be closed by the end of the year if additional funding is not received. Further cuts to already underfunded gender-based violence programmes will have profound consequences for the survivors. Women and girls are paying a steep price. Their fundamental rights, including access to services that are critical for their health and well-being, have become a casualty of the conflict. Women and girls struggle to access healthcare, including reproductive services because of widespread damage to health facilities, shortages of health workers, as again previously mentioned, limited transportation options, lack of documentation, overcrowding and long waiting times. UNICEF informs us that funding shortfalls are compromising access to education for millions of children and undermining urgent efforts to sustain water and sanitation systems essential to preventing catastrophic public health risks, including cholera. Similarly, the World Health Organization reports cuts to health services that affect millions of people and reduce essential services, including child immunization and disease surveillance. Mr. President, The resumption of the United Nations aid deliveries through Bab al-Hawa is positive news. However, as I have highlighted, massive humanitarian needs and protection risks persist across the country. Much more is still needed for millions of people throughout Syria to reclaim a safe and dignified life. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Best way to prevent war is to prepare for one, Lai tells students ROC Central News Agency 09/26/2023 01:49 PM Taipei, Sept. 26 (CNA) Taiwan can prevent war by preparing for one, Lai Ching-te (), the ruling Democratic Progressive Party's presidential nominee, said in Taichung on Monday while rejecting the idea of a peace agreement to achieve peace. "[We must] prepare for war in order to prevent one," Lai said, asserting that Taiwan should continue building its strength and work with like-minded countries in the international community. Lai, who is also vice president, made the comments at Tunghai University in response to a student's question on how Taiwan could preserve itself in the event of a war across the Taiwan Strait. He said peace would not be achieved by "agreeing to a peace agreement" or "ceding sovereignty and accepting the 1992 consensus," countering the position of his opponents in the presidential race. In a speech in Kinmen in May, independent presidential hopeful Terry Gou () proposed negotiating peace with China and taking "however long to come up with a solution amenable to both sides ... for the sake of peace across the Taiwan Strait." Gou, a business tycoon who founded manufacturing giant Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., has never discussed details of what such a solution might entail, saying only that it would be negotiated based on the premise of "one China with respective interpretations." The premise also makes up part of the "1992 consensus," which is publicly endorsed by Gou and New Taipei mayor and Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih (). The "1992 consensus" refers to an understanding reached at a 1992 meeting between Taiwan's then-ruling KMT and Beijing that both sides would recognize there is only "one China." Over the years, the KMT has maintained that the consensus tacitly allows each side to interpret what "China" means, although Beijing has never formally endorsed that formula. The DPP, on the other hand, has refused to accept the "1992 consensus." It has argued that Beijing never acknowledged the existence of the Republic of China (Taiwan's official name) and that agreeing to it would imply acceptance of China's claim over Taiwan. Lai said that "should there be a war [in the Taiwan Strait], it will have been initiated by the other side of the strait," and that Taiwan needed to increase its strength by boosting its defense capability and economic security to deter threats from China. At the same time, Taiwan could seek cooperation with China, provided that both sides treat each other with dignity and as equals, for the benefit of the people across the Taiwan Strait, Lai said, expressing a policy that has been in place but has not led to any breakthroughs with Beijing. Hou and Ko Wen-je (), presidential candidate of the Taiwan People's Party, have blamed the DPP government for the deterioration of cross-strait relations over the past seven years, and Hou has repeatedly accused the DPP of pushing Taiwan to "the brink of war" with China. (By Chao Li-yen and Teng Pei-ju) Enditem/ls NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Guatemala defense minister meets with President Tsai ROC Central News Agency 09/27/2023 11:26 PM Taipei, Sept. 27 (CNA) Visiting Guatemalan Defense Minister Henry Yovani Reyes Chigua met with President Tsai Ing-wen (ee) on Wednesday and said he looked forward to bilateral ties between the two countries continuing to deepen. The minister made the comment during the meeting at the Presidential Office, noting that Guatemala and Taiwan had enjoyed "a friendly and close relationship" over the years, according to a press release issued by the Presidential Office after the meeting. The Central American nation is one of 13 states in the world that formally recognize the Republic of China, Taiwan's official name. The two countries established diplomatic relations in 1933. It remains unclear, however, when Reyes, along with his wife, arrived in Taiwan and what the main purpose of the trip is. The Guatemalan official was welcomed by Taiwan's Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng (ea) on Monday with a military salute in Taipei, according to Taiwan's Military News Agency. The two ministers also presented each other with medals in recognition of their respective contributions to the promotion of bilateral military exchanges, the agency said. During her remarks, Tsai said military cooperation had played an important role in deepening bilateral relations, in particular the joint effort to train military personnel, while also expressing hope that the two countries could further their partnership in other areas. (By Chen Jun-hua and Teng Pei-ju) Enditem/kb NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address DPP 'stands against interests and well-being of Taiwan compatriots,' stigmatizing mainland's policy Global Times By Wang Qi Published: Sep 27, 2023 06:39 PM Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities on the island of Taiwan have always stood on the wrong side of history and against the interests and well-being of Taiwan compatriots, a Chinese mainland spokesperson said in response to the DPP's smearing of the mainland's latest document to facilitate integrated development across the Taiwan Straits. Analysts said that despite the DPP's stigmatizing attacks, the mainland will remain determined to promote cross-Straits integrated development in the interests of the whole Chinese nation and for the well-being of compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Straits. Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, made the remarks at a press briefing on Wednesday. She noted that the latest document was issued to provide the greatest convenience, the best conditions and the strongest protection possible for the vast number of Taiwan compatriots studying, working and living in East China's Fujian Province, and fully demonstrates the goodwill and sincerity of the mainland to the vast number of Taiwan compatriots. It will have a huge and far-reaching impact on the peaceful and integrated development cross the Taiwan Straits, Zhu said. On September 12, China's State Council released a new document that outlines supporting measures to develop Fujian into the first home for Taiwan compatriots and enterprises in the Chinese mainland. The document lists general requirements and 21 specific measures for building a demonstration zone, according to the Xinhua News Agency. After the document was released, the heads of political parties on the island, experts, scholars and media personalities on the island made positive comments, saying that the mainland has released full goodwill and provided more development opportunities for Taiwan compatriots. However, the DPP authorities and their mouthpieces smeared that the mainland "intended to lure Taiwan people and businesses" into the mainland's system of regulations by pulling them in with economic benefits. The slanderous attacks by DPP authorities on mainland policies show the correctness and necessity of the mainland's path, Wang Jianmin, a senior cross-Straits expert at Minnan Normal University in Fujian Province, told the Global Times on Wednesday. According to the expert, the political struggle between the two sides of the Taiwan Straits has, to a certain extent, changed from the past struggle for reunification and secession into a struggle for integration and counter-integration. The DPP authorities have already adopted a series of policies and regulations to obstruct cross-Straits integration and they may create more obstacles for Taiwan people and business in the future, Wang said. However, "the DPP cannot fundamentally obstruct the general trend of integration and development which is longed for by Taiwan people," Wang said, adding that the mainland will remain determined to promote cross-Straits integrated development in the interests of the Chinese nation as a whole and for the well-being of compatriots on both sides of the Straits. The construction of the demonstration zone promoted by the mainland is not on the island of Taiwan, but in Fujian Province. It will provide facilities for schooling and employment, so that Taiwan compatriots will be more integrated into the process of economic and social development on the mainland, and this is something that the mainland side can fully lead, Wang said. "Integrated development is not only a policy measure before reunification, but also something that both sides of the Taiwan Straits should continue to promote after reunification," Wang said. It is worth noting that on the same day as the mainland's document was released, the DPP authorities issued its annual defense report, emphasizing the enhancement of asymmetric warfare weaponry, as well as the strengthening of urban warfare capabilities. It exposes the DPP authorities' sinister intentions of being a pawn of external forces, trying to push cross-Straits confrontation while ignoring the safety and security of Taiwan compatriots, Zhu said. "In comparison, it is self-evident who is seeking development and enhancing the well-being of Taiwan compatriots, and who is creating danger and risks of war," she said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China says military drills near Taiwan aimed at targeting 'arrogance' of separatists Iran Press TV Wednesday, 27 September 2023 3:38 PM China says it recent series of drills near Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) are aimed at combating the "arrogance" of separatist forces. At a press conference on Wednesday, Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for China's State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said that China's recently-held military drills around the self-ruled island were to combat "the arrogance of Taiwan independence separatist forces." "The purpose is to resolutely combat the arrogance of Taiwan independence separatist forces and their actions to seek independence," she stressed. "The provocation of Taiwan independence continues all day long, and the actions of the People's Liberation Army to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity are always ongoing," Zhu added. She also urged Taiwanese people to distinguish between "right and wrong", and resolutely oppose independence for the island, calling on the island nation to work with China in a bid to maintain peace and stability in the strategically-sensitive Taiwan Strait. China has sovereignty over the Chinese Taipei, and under the "One China" policy, almost all world countries, including the US, recognize that sovereignty. However, Washington has long courted Taipei in an attempt to unnerve Beijing. Furthermore, Washington, which backs Taipei's secessionist president Tsai Ing-wen, also infuriates Beijing by selling weapons to the self-governed island in violation of its own official policy. Zhu's remarks came just a day after Tsai lobbied for Australia's support in joining a regional trade pact. China particularly dislikes William Lai, the frontrunner to be elected president at Taiwan's January elections, for his previous remarks in support of independence. Separately on Wednesday, Lai, who is now the island's vice-president, said China was trying to "annex" the island. "China's attempts to annex Taiwan have not changed," he said at an event in Taipei on Wednesday for the 37th anniversary of the founding of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, or DPP. China describes Taiwan as the most sensitive and important issue in its relations with the US, and the topic remains a constant source of friction between Beijing and Washington. Beijing has time and again said that it will use force, if necessary, to add Taiwan to China's mainland. Chinese President Xi Jinping, in an address to the 20th Communist Party Congress in October last year, made the same warning. He said at the time that mainland China would continue to seek peaceful unification with the "greatest sincerity and the utmost effort" but would "absolutely never promise to renounce the use of force" and "reserve the option of taking all necessary measures." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address An island encircled as China practices beach landings The PLA has been upping the ante with 'abnormal' and 'out of control' drills, say Taiwan defense officials. By Chris Taylor for RFA 2023.09.27 -- Taiwan's minister of national defense and military analysts are calling recent Chinese military drills "abnormal" and "out of control" amid reports that civilian ferries are being harnessed to carry out beach landing drills on the Chinese side of the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan is concerned that China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) is using increasingly provocative tactics to habituate Taiwan - and its immediate de facto allies, the United States and Japan - into a militarily fractious routine. On Friday last week, Taiwan Minister of National Defense Chiu Kuo-cheng told reporters at the legislature in Taipei that Chinese military movements around Taiwan were "abnormal." "Our initial analysis is that they are doing joint drills in September, including land, sea, air and amphibious," Chiu said, responding to questions about a rise in Chinese military activity around the nation involving dozens of warplanes, drones, bombers and warships. Chieh Chung, a military researcher at Taiwan's National Policy Foundation think tank, concurred, telling Radio Free Asia, "From September 11-15, the PLA mobilized three major fleets in the Western Pacific, with a total of 17 surface ships (including the Shandong aircraft carrier strike group) to conduct large-scale confrontational exercises." "That's not like previous exercises in past years. It's indeed unusual," Chieh said. Meanwhile, the English-language Taiwan News reported civilian ferries were carrying out "undetermined, but likely non-commercial" operations along China's east coast. The six roll-on roll-off (RoRo) ferries associated with the PLA were seen on Sunday conducting drills on Chinese beaches in the Taiwan Strait, at Xiamen, a city in Fujian Province directly opposite Taiwan, the report said, drawing on a series of posts on X, formerly known as Twitter. The source, Tom Shugart, is an adjunct senior fellow with the Defense Program at the Center for a New American Security. Attempts by RFA to reach Shugart were not successful, but sources said his information was normally reliable. Analyst Chieh Chung said he couldn't verify Shugart's claims, but added that in exercises conducted at Dacheng Bay, Fujian, last year and the year before, China mobilized civilian semi-submersible ships and RoRo cargo ships for "dock-less unloading" drills. "Dacheng Bay is the PLA's amphibious landing training base," Chieh said. "Every year from July to September, many PLA units conduct exercises there. But he added: "The 'Eight Transport Group (Strategic Sea Transport 8th Squadron)' mentioned in the news [Shugart's tweets] does indeed exist and is indeed part of the Bo Hai Ferry Group," he said. Ben Lewis, an independent defense analyst based in Washington D.C., said "Multiple Bo Hai ferries have been pulled off their normal routes, but I think the only thing about the recent drills that is unnormal is the fact that the PLA hasn't bragged about them through its propaganda outlets." New normal Michael Mazza, a non-resident Asia-Pacific defense analyst with the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), describes "the new normal of PLA operations around Taiwan, which can arguably be dated to the Pelosi visit, as one of high numbers, high frequency and high intensity." Then-U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi incurred China's wrath in Aug. 2022 by visiting Taiwan, which China claims as sovereign territory. He added, "The new normal also seems to be one in which there is no accepted status quo and no obvious limiting principle. China will ramp up and ramp down as it wishes." But Mazza also said that he does not think the recent exercises "suggest an imminent use of force against Taiwan." Rather, he said, it seems more likely that the PLA is speeding up training and shaping operations ahead of Xi Jinping's 2027 "readiness" deadline. China's President Xi Jinping has announced publicly that he wants China to be ready, should Taiwan not come to the table, to invade the de facto nation fortress by 2027, despite repeated U.S. statements that such a move would be unacceptable. Washington-based Lewis is similarly unconcerned that China is planning an imminent move on Taiwan. "August-October is one of the PLA's training seasons, so I'm not concerned that they are doing anything out of the ordinary. Different, maybe, but not out of control." However, he added, while "the PRC is generally risk-averse ... the more they increase their military activity region-wide, the higher the risk of a miscalculation." Says Mazza, on the question of possible red lines the PLA might inadvertently cross in its increasing adventurism, "China's installation of a barrier at Scarborough Shoal last week may have been such a red line in the South China Sea - a seemingly minor escalation that was too much for the Philippines to bear." Lewis said, "The PRC is generally risk-averse, but the more they increase their military activity region-wide, the higher the risk of a miscalculation," referring to the People's Republic of China, the official name of China. "Beijing uses this risk as a weapon in its engagements with other countries, including Taiwan. I also think, however, that the PRC is highly aware of the red-lines of its targets, specifically Washington and Tokyo. "As much as they may escalate a situation, I think they want to avoid an escalation spiral as much as anyone else." Speaking on the Scarborough Shoal incident and the reaction of the Philippines, Mazza said, "It is difficult to predict what an equivalent would be in the Taiwan Strait, but the lesson is this: China is far too confident that it can control escalation and that it can count on the restraint of its rivals and adversaries. "That confidence may be misplaced," Mazza says. Edited by Mike Firn and Elaine Chan. 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 Rustem Umerov held a telephone conversation with the Minister of National Defence of Poland Mariusz Blaszczak Ministry of Defence of Ukraine 2023-09-26 22:30:00 | ID: 70784 During the telephone conversation, the Minister of Defence of Ukraine thanked Poland for leadership in the Tank Coalition and for the considerable assistance since the beginning of full-scale invasion of russia to Ukraine. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address September 27, 2023 By Matthew Howard, Undersecretary of Defense (Acquisition & Sustainment) Strategic Communications National Armaments Directors Meet in Support of Ukraine National Armaments Directors from more than 40 countries, the European Union, and NATO gathered Wednesday in Brussels, Belgium under the auspices of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group to further ongoing efforts aimed at collaboratively solving industrial base and sustainment challenges in support of Ukraine. Led by Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment William LaPlante, the session was the sixth meeting to date. Last week's forum came on the heels of the 15th meeting of the full UDCG hosted by Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin a day earlier in Ramstein, Germany. "Ukraine's progress is a testament to the fighting spirit of its people," Austin said to ministers of defense and senior military officials. "But Ukraine's recent gains also hinge on the crucial capabilities provided by members of this Contact Group." In total, the United States and Ukraine's global partners have committed more than $76 billion in direct security assistance to Ukraine's defense, including an additional $325 million military aid package announced by President Joe Biden Thursday. "The opportunity to hold an out-of-cycle session immediately after the full ministerial UDCG reinforces the value and importance of the NAD forum, both now and looking toward the future," LaPlante said. "Whether we're finding ways to increase global 155mm artillery production or tracking down repair parts for the myriad of international platforms and systems donated to the Ukrainians, this is an operational body that is working the hard challenges every day and delivering tangible results." Security Assistance in Action Throughout the last year, NADs established four working groups to closely coordinate international efforts in key capability areas: ground-based, long-range fires; integrated air defense systems, air-to-ground capabilities; and sustainment support. Chief among items discussed at Wednesday's NAD meeting was building sustainment capacity in Ukraine, including forward repair activity, access to spare parts, and other sustainment enablers such as translating manuals, transferring technical data packages and leveraging advanced manufacturing. "The longer this conflict goes on, sustainment becomes exponentially more important to the Ukrainian's continued success," Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment Christopher Lowman said, noting the sheer variety of equipment that has been donated to Ukraine in terms of quantity, type, and country of origin. "Our sustainment working group has grown to 26 countriesamore than half of all UDCG membersawhich is a testament to both the breadth of efforts actively being worked and the degree of collaboration that's been enabled by establishing the UDCG NAD forum." For example, since the United States and Ukraine last convened the group virtually in June, large-scale, commercial-grade 3D printers and associated consumables have been delivered, along with training for Ukrainian operators and maintainers. Multiple contracts were also awarded to procure spare parts for and repair Soviet-era equipment. LaPlante echoed Austin's challenge to Contact Group members to increase donations of critical munitions as well. As Ukrainian forces continue expending high volumes of artillery shells, the U.S. and allies and partners have continued to increase production of 155mm ammunition. The U.S. has roughly doubled its monthly production and expects output to reach 80,000-100,000 rounds per month by late 2025 timeframe. However, both Austin and LaPlante emphasized the urgency of finding solutions to meet near-term demands while domestic and global production ramps come to fruition over the next two years. Proliferating use of unmanned systems has also heightened threats to Ukraine's critical national infrastructure, and the integrated air defense systems working group likewise stressed urgency in increasing the interoperability and interchangeability of international systems. A number of capabilities delivered to date have demonstrated the power of successful multinational integration, and LaPlante encouraged continued creativity in bringing together delivery platforms, effectors, and supporting command and control. Future Forces and Beyond While focus remains on ensuring Ukraine's immediate needs continue being met, the UDCG at both the ministerial and NAD levels are simultaneously addressing longer term requirements. "Our commitment to Ukraine isn't just for the duration of one campaign," Austin said in Ramstein. "It's a commitment to long-term security in Europe and beyond. And it's a commitment to our shared values of freedom and sovereignty." Over the coming weeks and months, focus will continue to be placed on long-term strategies for sustaining donated platforms, exploring opportunities for greater collaborative production, and identifying both mitigations to supply chain bottlenecks to expand global capacityaincluding domestically within Ukraine. "What the NAD forum has been able to accomplish in a year is nothing short of remarkable, and it's a real testament to Secretary Austin's leadership," LaPlante added. "All of my counterparts in attendance remain committed to supporting Ukraine for the long haul, and even once the fighting stops, I think we'll see the forum live on well into the future. It is just that valuable." The next UDCG NAD meeting is expected to occur in October 2023. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Minister Tsahkna: We will not allow a country breaching the basic principles of the OSCE to dictate the organisation's future Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 27.09.2023 Yesterday, 26 September, Minister of Foreign Affairs Margus Tsahkna attended an extraordinary session of the Permanent Council of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) via video link. The agenda for the session covered Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine and other pressing issues within the OSCE. In his address, Minister Tsahkna stressed that the primary objective of the OSCE is to support Ukraine in the full-scale war of aggression being waged against it by Russia. "In breaching the basic principles and obligations of the OSCE, Russia has significantly undermined the organisation's capacity to function and triggered the biggest crisis the OSCE has faced in its history," he said. "We find ourselves in a situation where the organisation's chairmanship remains to be filled for the coming year, a budget has gone unapproved for the second year in succession and the mandates of the Secretary General and the heads of the OSCE's independent institutions are set to expire. Under such circumstances we must show that we are capable of being creative and find solutions which do not negatively impact the future of the OSCE or its basic principles and which enable it to continue its very important work," Tsahkna said. Minister Tsahkna added that Estonia is the only candidate for the chairmanship of the organisation in 2024 and that it would not withdraw its nomination. "We respect the basic principles of the OSCE and do not, and will not, make any compromises in regard to them. Estonia is more than willing to lead the work of the OSCE forward," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU home affairs ministers to decide on extension of temporary protection for Ukrainians fleeing the war Finnish Government Ministry of the Interior 27.9.2023 Press release EU home affairs ministers will gather in Brussels on 28 September for a meeting of the Justice and Home Affairs Council. Items on the agenda include the situation in Ukraine and migration issues. Finland will be represented by Minister of the Interior Mari Rantanen. The Spanish Presidency is seeking political agreement between the EU Member States on extending temporary protection for Ukrainians. "Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine continues and there is a steady number of Ukrainians arriving in the EU. The Government Programme states that Finland will provide full assistance to people who have fled the war in Ukraine. We therefore support the proposal to extend temporary protection," says Minister Rantanen. The protection mechanism enabled by the temporary protection directive was first introduced in the EU after Russia launched its war of aggression in Ukraine in March 2022. The aim was to ensure that Ukrainians fleeing the war have a harmonised status and rights in the different EU Member States. In addition, the temporary protection mechanism prevents the need to immediately apply for international protection, which alleviates the pressure on Member States' asylum systems. At the moment, slightly over 4 million people enjoying temporary protection are registered in the EU. EU cooperates with Ukraine on internal security The home affairs ministers will also receive an update on internal security cooperation between Ukraine and the EU Member States. The aim is to respond to any internal security threats posed by Russia's war of aggression. The purpose is to intensify operational cooperation in four key sectors: border security, arms smuggling, foreign extremist fighters and other risks to internal security. "The development of internal security in Ukraine is important not only for Ukraine itself but also for Europe as a whole. That is why it is important that we as the European Union are committed to supporting Ukraine," Rantanen says. We need sustainable partnerships with countries of origin and transit The ministers will also discuss preparedness for and prevention of extraordinary migratory situations. At EU level, efforts will be made to prevent migration crises and extraordinary situations, especially by developing partnerships with countries of origin and transit. Irregular migration to the European Union has continued to grow this year. At the moment, migration is particularly concentrated on the Central Mediterranean route from Tunisia and Libya to Italy. This year, more than half of the entries into the EU have been detected on this route. In July 2023, the EU concluded a cooperation agreement with Tunisia to support, for example, migration and border management in Tunisia. However, cooperation has not yet begun as hoped. "The EU must build sustainable partnerships with third countries to better manage migration to the Union. Compliance with the EU-Tunisia agreement must be monitored and its implementation enhanced. This is important for the EU's credibility and to learn lessons for possible future agreements with third countries," Minister Rantanen says. Reform of the Common European Asylum System is progressing The home affairs ministers will receive an update on the trilogue negotiations currently under way between the Council, the European Commission and the European Parliament on the reform of the Common European Asylum System. At the moment, the Council's position is still being formulated on the proposal for a regulation addressing situations of crisis and force majeure in the field of migration and asylum. The Spanish Presidency is seeking to reach a general approach of the Council on the proposal for the crisis regulation as soon as possible. The purpose of the crisis regulation is to lay down provisions on derogations to the application of the regulations on migration management and the asylum procedure in situations covered by the crisis regulation. For example, the regulation covers situations in which migration is used as an instrument for hybrid influence activities. The crisis regulation forms a whole especially with the proposal for a regulation on migration management. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Lithuania's Foreign Minister Landsbergis: "Sweden's immediate accession to NATO and continued support for Ukraine are among our top priorities" Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 2023.09.27 On 27 September, Lithuania's Minister of Foreign Affairs Gabrielius Landsbergis met with the new Ambassador of Sweden to Lithuania Lars Wahlund to discuss issues of bilateral cooperation, strengthening regional security and collaboration, and supporting Ukraine's fight against Russian aggression. "One of the most urgent priorities is Sweden's membership of NATO, which will undoubtedly help to increase security in the Baltic Sea region and further strengthen the Alliance. Thus, we look forward to swiftly completing the ratification procedures," Landsbergis said. Lithuania's Foreign Minister also stressed that the NATO summit in Vilnius brought Ukraine closer to NATO. "We have to seize this opportunity and move forward at maximum speed sometime before the NATO summit in Washington D.C. next summer. It is also vital for Ukraine's victory to ensure an uninterrupted supply of weapons, especially ammunition. As far as the EU is concerned, the biggest long-term security we can provide for Ukraine and ourselves is the enlargement of the EU. We hope that accession talks with Ukraine will begin at the end of this year," the head of Lithuania's diplomacy said. Landsbergis also underlined that global and regional geopolitical challenges - Russia's war against Ukraine, hybrid threats, and strengthening regional security - brought the Baltic and Nordic countries closer. Therefore, we will continue to work hand in hand to enhance further the prospects for regional cooperation during Sweden's coordination of the Nordic-Baltic Eight (NB8) cooperation framework next year. The Foreign Minister welcomed the excellent bilateral relations. Sweden is a close neighbour and partner of Lithuania. In addition , we cooperate closely at the political level in economic, energy security and other areas. Sweden is Lithuania's strategic trading partner and one of the largest investors in the country. Landsbergis called for further efforts to deepen bilateral economic cooperation, especially in innovative and high-tech sectors. The Swedish Ambassador presented his letters of credence to the President of Lithuania Gitanas NausAda on 28 August. Wahlund is Sweden's tenth Ambassador to Lithuania after the restoration of independence. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Latest Lithuania's assistance package to Ukraine - radiolocation equipment sets for the Ukrainian Navy Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence 2023-09-27 International cooperation The Ministry of National Defence and the Lithuanian Armed Forces continuously ensure delivery of assistance to Ukraine. Tuesday the Lithuanian Navy handed over radiolocation sets to the Ukrainian Navy. The equipment supports maritime surveillance and development of maritime awareness capabilities. It has been provided at the request of the Ukrainian Navy. "This aid will strengthen Ukraine's maritime surveillance capability and enable better maritime awareness. The equipment will become an important instrument for Ukraine to protect its territorial waters and security of its people against the devastation of the Russian war," says Minister of National Defence Arvydas AnuAauskas. Besides the transferred equipment and gear, Lithuania offers intense training for the Ukrainian military, continues medical treatment and rehabilitation for Ukrainian troops, holds expert-level consultations and contributes financially to international funds supporting Ukraine. Lithuania has a long-term support plan approved. It is a new EUR 200 million worth package of assistance to Ukraine for 2024-2026. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kherson Under 'Massive Shelling' As Cities In Southern Ukraine On Alert By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service September 27, 2023 The southern Ukrainian city of Kherson again came under Russian shelling late on September 27 after Russian troops struck two businesses in the regional capital, local authorities said. The State Emergencies Service reported on Telegram that firefighters rushed to the businesses after they were hit but had had to return several times to extinguish the flames. Oleksandr Prokudin, head of the regional military administration, announced around 10 p.m. local time that Kherson was under massive shelling. Russia has regularly shelled the Ukrainian-controlled part of Kherson since Moscow withdrew from the regional capital last year. Russian drone attacks and shelling on September 26 briefly disrupted the rail link between Kherson and the city of Mykolayiv, which was also under air alert on September 27. Earlier, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Ukrainian forces were making gains against Russian troops in the eastern region of Donetsk as Moscow launched fresh artillery strikes on Ukraine's southern region of Nikopol and Kherson overnight, wounding civilians and damaging houses and infrastructure. "We are advancing in the Donetsk direction," Zelenskiy said after a conference call with military officials, adding that he was also briefed on the situation in the partially liberated southern region of Kherson, which has been targeted for months by Russian shelling. "The Russians continue to terrorize the territories their [artillery] can reach," he said. In the Nikopol region, two people were wounded by Russian shelling, Serhiy Lysak, the head of Dnipropetrovsk region's military administration, said on Telegram on September 27. "At night, the enemy fired heavy artillery at Myrivska Hromada and [the city of] Nikopol itself," Lysak wrote, adding that the two men who had been wounded were in a moderate condition in hospital. He said a two-story building was set on fire during the attack. "Rescuers put out the fire," Lysak said. The General Staff of Ukraine's military said in its daily update that Ukrainian forces were conducting offensive operations in the direction of the embattled eastern city of Bakhmut and the southern region of Melitopol, adding that a total of 26 close-quarters battles were fought along the front line over the past 24 hours. On September 26, Russia again struck grain-exporting facilities in the Odesa region, causing damage and injuries among the local inhabitants, Ukrainian officials said. Odesa Governor Oleh Kiper said Izmayil, one of the two Danube ports that Ukraine uses to export grain, was hit, and a checkpoint building, storage facilities, and more than 30 trucks and cars were damaged. Two people were wounded, Kiper said. Russia has stepped up its aerial bombardments of Ukrainian sites, targeting in particular Ukraine's grain-exporting infrastructure in the southern Odesa and Mykolayiv regions. Ukraine has resumed exporting grain despite Russia's pulling out of a United Nations-brokered deal allowing safe grain shipments in July. Zelenskiy has vowed new Ukrainian actions against Russia following a missile strike last week against Russia's Black Sea Fleet headquarters that Kyiv said killed nearly three dozen officers, including its top commander. "We clearly see which directions of pressure on Russia need to be strengthened to prevent [its] terrorist capabilities from growing," Zelenskiy said in his nightly video address on September 26. "Sanctions are not enough," he said. Ukraine's claim about its strike against the Russian Black Sea Fleet could not be immediately confirmed, and Russia released markedly lower casualty figures from the September 22 attack in the Crimean port of Sevastopol. But the strike itself was the latest in a series of increasingly audacious attacks by Ukrainian forces on Russian ships and Black Sea facilities -- attacks that Western experts say may have drastically curtailed Russia's naval operations in the region. In a statement on September 25, Ukraine's special operations forces cited "new information about the losses of the enemy as a result of the special operation," claiming that 34 officers, including the fleet commander, were killed when cruise missiles -- believed to be either British or French -- hit the Sevastopol building. At least 105 others were wounded, it said. The Ukrainian statement did not name the naval commander. The current top officer in the Black Sea Fleet is Admiral Viktor Sokolov. Asked by reporters on September 26 about the Ukrainian claim, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said he had no comment. Sokolov was shown on Russian state television on September 26 among other senior officers attending a video conference with Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, although it was not clear when the footage has been recorded. With reporting by Current Time, AFP, TASS, and Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia--shells-civilians- ukraine-nikopol-kherson/32612087.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 Calls On Canada To Bring Nazi Veteran To Justice Hours After Parliament Speaker Resigns By RFE/RL's Russian Service September 27, 2023 The speaker of Canada's parliament has resigned after inadvertently honoring a Ukrainian Nazi veteran, triggering global condemnation and calls from the Kremlin for Ottawa to bring 98-year-old Yaroslav Hunka, a Ukrainian who fought for a Nazi unit in World War II, to justice. Speaker Anthony Rota stepped down saying he made an "error" by inviting Hunka to the House of Commons and hailing him as a "hero" during a visit to the legislature by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Members of parliament from all parties rose to applaud Hunka, unaware of the details of who he was. Rota, who initially resisted calls to resign, said he had no knowledge Hunka, a Ukrainian immigrant from Rota's parliamentary district, had served in a Nazi-linked military unit that was accused of killing Polish and Jewish civilians, though it was never convicted in a court of committing war crimes. Polish Education Minister Przemyslaw Czarnek said on September 26 he had "taken steps" to start the extradition of Hunka, while Russia on September 27 called Rota's resignation an "insufficient step." Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Canada's parliament needed to publicly condemn Nazism and called on the Canadian authorities to "bring to justice or to extradite to those who wish to bring to justice this criminal." The furor comes 19 months into Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russia has accused Ukrainian leaders of being "neo-Nazis" despite Zelenskiy being Jewish and losing family members in the Holocaust. Moscow has also sought to justify its full-scale invasion with the need to "de-Nazify" its neighbor. Peskov repeated that narrative on September 27, saying that the incident in the Canadian parliament "once again confirms Kyiv's Nazi ideology." Hunka served in the 1st Ukrainian Division, also known as the Waffen-SS Galicia Division, or the SS 14th Waffen Division, a volunteer unit that was under the command of the Nazis. The Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies has called the incident "shocking" and "incredibly disturbing." "This incident has compromised all 338 members of parliament," the organization said in a statement, adding it had "handed a propaganda victory to Russia, distracting from what was a momentously significant display of unity between Canada and Ukraine." In his apology, Rota said he alone was responsible for inviting and recognizing Hunka. His office confirmed that it did not share its invitation list with any other party or group before Hunka's visit. Ukraine's government has not commented on the incident. Zelensky's visit to Canada was part of a tour aimed at bolstering international support, after addressing the United Nations and visiting U.S. President Joe Biden in Washington. During the visit, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau pledged additional aid to Zelensky's war-torn country. Canada is home to the world's second-largest Ukrainian diaspora and Zelenskiy, in his speech to parliament, expressed thanks for the backing given to Kyiv since Russian troops poured over the Ukrainian borders in February 2022. With reporting by AP, AFP and Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/canada-parliament-speaker- resigns-ukrainian-nazi/32612038.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 Loses 390 Military in Donetsk Direction in Past Day - MoD Sputnik News 20230927 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Ukraine has lost up to 390 military both killed and injured in the Donetsk direction over the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Wednesday. Over the given period, the Russian armed forces have repelled 10 attacks by Ukrainian troops in the Donetsk direction, two attacks in the Krasny Liman direction and one attack in the South Donetsk direction. "During the day of hostilities, enemy losses amounted to up to 390 Ukrainian military personnel killed and wounded, four tanks, nine infantry fighting vehicles, seven vehicles, and two US-made M777 artillery systems," the ministry said in a statement. In the South Donetsk direction, Ukraine has lost over 150 military, the statement read. Ukraine launched its latest counteroffensive in early June. Three months later, Russian President Vladimir Putin said the Ukrainian counteroffensive had failed, with Ukraine suffering over 71,000 casualties. Several Western officials have also admitted that the Ukrainian counteroffensive has not been successful. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Attack on Sevastopol Carried Out in Close Coordination With US, UK Specialists - Moscow Sputnik News 20230927 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Last week, Kiev launched a missile strike on Sevastopol and the Russian air defense shot down five missiles, according to the Russian Defense Ministry. The recent attack on Sevastopol was carried out in a close coordination with US and UK specialists, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Wednesday. "On September 22, Sevastopol was again under attack, and there is not the slightest doubt that the attack was pre-planned using Western intelligence assets, NATO satellite equipment, reconnaissance aircraft and was carried out at the instigation and in close coordination with the US and UK intelligence services," Zakharova told reporters. On September 22, Kiev launched a missile strike on Sevastopol and the Russian air defense shot down 5 missiles. A missile strike on Sevastopol damaged the historical building of the Russian Black Sea Fleet headquarters, and one serviceman went missing, according to the Russian Defense Ministry. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Head of the Presidential Office had a phone call with the Minister of Enterprises and Production of Italy President of Ukraine 27 September 2023 - 11:42 Pursuant to the instruction of the President, Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak had a phone call with Minister of Enterprises and Production of Italy Adolfo Urso. Andriy Yermak thanked the government and people of Italy for their unwavering support of our country in the fight for freedom and common European democratic values. "We appreciate everything that Italy and Giorgia Meloni personally do for Ukraine and we are interested in maintaining an active dialogue between the two countries," the Head of the Presidential Office noted. The interlocutors touched upon the issue of defense support, in particular in the context of the appointment of the new Minister of Defense of Ukraine. The parties emphasized the importance of establishing a close dialogue between Rustem Umerov and his Italian counterpart Guido Crosetto. The parties also discussed further cooperation and development of relations both at the level of the two states and within international organizations. Special attention was paid to cooperation in the economic sphere and Italy's participation in the implementation of projects to rebuild and restore Ukraine. According to the Head of the President's Office, the Italian side could join reconstruction projects together with other European countries. Adolfo Urso, for his part, assured: "Italy is ready to continue supporting Ukraine and could join those projects and areas where its experience and support would be helpful." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Some Wagner Troops Return to Ukraine to Resume Fighting, Kyiv Says By VOA News September 27, 2023 About 500 Wagner mercenaries who fought alongside Russian troops in Ukraine before fleeing to Belarus after a short-lived mutiny in June have now returned to the front lines to again fight Kyiv's forces, a Ukrainian Army spokesman said Wednesday. Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin was killed in a plane crash in Russia last month, raising questions about the future of his forces. Some, possibly as many as 6,000, have been in Belarus for three months, while others had been deployed to Africa, where Wagner also has had ongoing operations. Now, about 500 of the Wagner troops have resumed fighting for Russia in Ukraine, Ilya Yevlash, the spokesman for Ukraine's Eastern Grouping of Forces, told Ukrainian broadcaster RBC-Ukraine. He said the Russian Defense Ministry had renegotiated contracts with the returning mercenaries. "These individuals are indeed among the most well-trained in the Russian army, but they will not become a game-changer," Yevlash said. Most of the Wagner forces that had previously fought in Ukraine had taken part in the brief mutiny but moved to Belarus under a deal the Belarusian leader, Alexander Lukashenko, negotiated with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Yevlash said the camps in Belarus are now being disbanded. The cause of the plane crash that killed Prigozhin and other Wagner leaders has not been determined but many Western officials believe it was Putin's retribution for the uprising Prigozhin led, a troop movement toward Moscow that he abruptly called off. In the weeks that followed, Prigozhin met with Putin at the Kremlin and traveled freely in Russia before the plane crash. Russian accusations against US, Britain Russia Wednesday accused the United States and Britain of helping Ukraine carry out an attack last week against the headquarters Russian Black Sea fleet in Russia-occupied Crimea. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said at a briefing that the attack was "planned in advance using Western intelligence means, NATO satellite assets, and reconnaissance planes." Zakharova also said U.S. and British intelligence helped coordinate the missile strike. While the U.S. and other Western partners have provided military equipment and training to Ukraine, U.S. officials have previously denied playing a direct role in Ukraine's defense against the Russian invasion. When Russia accused the United States of being involved in a May drone attack on the Kremlin, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby called the claim ludicrous. A television channel run by Russia's Defense Ministry broadcast undated video Wednesday showing Adm. Viktor Sokolov, the leader of Russia's Black Sea fleet, saying the fleet was performing successfully. It was the second consecutive day in which video of Sokolov appeared on Russian television, following a Ukrainian claim that he was killed in the Crimea missile strike. Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Slovakia's Election Threatens to Upend Western Unity on Ukraine By Henry Ridgwell September 27, 2023 Slovakia is due to hold parliamentary elections Saturday amid fears in Kyiv and Western capitals that the result could jeopardize unity on support for Ukraine following Russia's full-scale invasion last year. Robert Fico The populist Smer, or Direction, party, led by former prime minister Robert Fico, is leading the polls with around 18% of the vote. He has campaigned on a platform of ending military support for Ukraine and blocking the country's path to NATO membership, while opposing sanctions on Russia. Speaking at a campaign rally September 6 in the town of Michalovce, close to the Ukrainian border, Fico called for an end to Western weapons supplies for Kyiv. "Peace is the only solution. I refuse to get criticized and labeled as a warmonger just for talking about peace, whereas those who support war and killing are being called peace activists. We have it all messed up in our heads. We will not send a single bullet to Ukraine from the state stocks," Fico told cheering supporters. Military aid Slovakia has until now been a strong supporter of Ukraine, donating its fleet of Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets and an S-300 air defense system. Fico pledged to reverse such policies. "Why for God's sake don't we go negotiate peace? Why do we only talk about how much ammunition we are going to send to Ukraine, what tanks are we going to send, how many billions are we going to spend on more armaments?" he said. "Why don't we force the warring parties, use the weight of the EU and the U.S. to make them sit down and find some sort of compromise that would guarantee security for Ukraine," Fico told The Associated Press in a recent interview, adding that he would oppose European Union sanctions on Moscow and block any application by Ukraine to join NATO. Fico's Smer party looks set to fall well short of a parliamentary majority and would need to form a coalition government, giving a potentially crucial role to Slovakia's numerous smaller political parties. Political chaos Fico served as Slovakia's prime minister between 2006 to 2010 and again from 2012 to 2018. He was forced to resign after the murder of journalist Jan Kuciak and his fiancAe, Martina Kusnirova, in 2018 prompted mass protests. Kuciak had been investigating alleged tax fraud among top Slovakian business leaders with close links to politicians. Since then, Slovakia has undergone a period of political turmoil, with four prime ministers in five years. Fico appears to have regained his support, partly on the back of his calls to end support for Ukraine, according to Dominika Hajdu, an analyst with the Bartislava-based policy group GLOBSEC. Pro-Russian sentiments "These kind of anti-Ukraine or even pro-Russian narratives resonate among Slovaks. One factor is definitely that Slovakia has historically had quite a large portion of the society with pro-Russian sentiments," Hajdu told VOA. A recent survey by GLOBSEC showed that just over half of Slovaks believe the West or Kyiv are responsible for the war following Russia's February 2022 invasion. Similarly, half of respondents saw the United States as posing a security threat for Slovakia, up from 39% in 2022. Politicians have sought to exploit those sentiments, Hajdu said. "Political representatives have been utilizing the war in Ukraine to spread nationalist populism. So, they put the issue of the war in Ukraine into the contrast with being pro-Slovak," he said. "Just to give you an example: 'By providing military support to Ukraine, we are taking security guarantees from Slovakia. By providing financial support to Ukraine, we're taking money from Slovaks who need it more.' So, they were able to create an assumption that by being pro-Ukrainian, you're anti-Slovak," Hajdu told VOA. Hungarian ally Until now, Hungary's prime minister, Viktor Orban, has been the sole NATO and EU member to openly question Western support for Ukraine. Fico sees Orban as a future ally, says Grigorij Meseznikov of the Slovak Institute for Public Affairs. "I think [Fico] is not brave enough to become a single dissident. But now that he's got Orban, he's got a solid point to adhere to. So, he will join Orban. He has become very authentically pro-Russian and spreads Russian narratives," Meseznikov told The Associated Press. Domino effect In several other Western countries, populist parties skeptical of the West's military aid to Ukraine enjoy significant public support, Hajdu said. "I'm afraid it might cause a bit of a domino effect, especially in countries that are awaiting elections. We're already seeing in Poland that the issue of support for Ukraine is being brought up," Hajdu said. Poland is due to hold elections October 15. The Progressive Slovakia party, led by the current vice president of the European Parliament, Michal Simecka, is polling just behind Fico's Smer party. Simecka is strongly pro-Western and supports military aid for Ukraine. Analysts say that coalition negotiations will be difficult for any party and that the elections are unlikely to end Slovakia's political turmoil. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address General Debate ends with UN focused on challenges ahead 26 September 2023 - The General Assembly's annual debate concluded on Tuesday, with global leaders stating that while the United Nations faces institutional challenges, it remains the paramount platform for crafting collective solutions to humanity's challenges. Over the past week, the UN's principal organ with universal membership heard Heads of States and Governments who outlined various challenges, from the existential threat of climate change to the misuse of artificial intelligence. Assembly President Dennis Francis, in his closing address, highlighted the continued relevance of the General Assembly and the United Nations' unwavering commitment to delivering peace, prosperity, progress, and sustainability to people around the world. "These developments are a welcome reminder that the United Nations remains focused on the collective challenges of our time," he stressed. Addressing ongoing conflicts globally, Mr. Francis offered his assistance in facilitating peace and friendship dialogues between nations or groups in conflict, stating, "be assured that I am at your service." Massive turnout Preliminary figures indicated that this year's high-level week witnessed the largest gathering of world leaders in person at the UN Headquarters in New York since the pandemic, with some 88 Heads of States, 42 Heads of Governments, and over 650 ministers in attendance. Top officials took advantage of this massive turnout to engage in more than 2,000 bilateral meetings. Furthermore, over 13,000 country delegates, 2,600 members of the media, and more than 40,000 other participants were registered for the general debate and its over 100 associated events. One such event was the kickoff SDG Action Weekend on 16-17 September, which brought together civil society, businesses, youth, scientists, local and regional governments, and other stakeholders to mobilize coordinated efforts toward realizing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all 193 UN Member States in 2015. Determination and commitment Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, summarizing the high-level week, noted a collective determination among all stakeholders to achieve the ambitious development agenda, especially at the halfway mark in pursuing the SDGs. Speaking to reporters in the afternoon, she also highlighted the importance of resources, citing the growing burden of debt on many countries, preventing them from adequately funding essential services in education and health. "We are short of the resources but that's why we're pushing for the SDG stimulus. That is a low hanging fruit. That is something we can do with existing resources and institutions. And I hope by the end of this year, we'll have something to say about that." Additionally, Ms. Mohammed pointed out that a significant number of commitments were made at the Climate Ambition Summit. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Dublin, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Charcoal Global Market Report 2023" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The in-depth market research report provides invaluable insights into the current trends and future directions of the charcoal industry, dissecting the market into digestible sections that highlight regional differences, product breakdowns, major players, potential opportunities and innovations. Unpack the reasons behind the burgeoning demand for barbecued food and its implications on the charcoal market. Understand the strategic moves by market-leading companies and discover the innovations that are setting the pace in the ever-evolving charcoal landscape. Overview: The global charcoal market grew from $5.14 billion in 2022 to $5.41 billion in 2023, registering a CAGR of 5.3%. The forecast predicts a growth to $6.51 billion by 2027 at a CAGR of 4.7%. Charcoal's applications range from outdoor grilling to industrial fuel and metallurgy. Asia-Pacific led the charcoal market in 2022, followed by North America. Market Segmentation: Major charcoal products include lump charcoal, charcoal briquettes, Japanese charcoal, and sugar charcoal. Distribution channels are primarily online and offline. Charcoal finds its application in outdoor activities, restaurants, metallurgical fuel, industrial fuel, and filtration. Market Dynamics: The growing trend of barbecued food is a significant growth driver for the charcoal market. The UK alone hosted approximately 165 million barbecues in 2021. Key market players are focusing on product innovation. For example, Kingsford launched Signature flavors in March 2022, which introduced pre-seasoned charcoal briquets. Report Specifications: The report offers in-depth insights into the charcoal industry's trends, opportunities, regional differences, major players, and future directions. The report spans 200 pages, covering a forecast period from 2023 to 2027. Data provided in the report covers market size, growth rates, segmentation, and other vital statistics. Key Players: Namchar Pty. Ltd. Mesjaya Abadi Sdn Bhd Royal Oak Enterprises LLC Kingsford Products Company The Saint Louis Charcoal Company LLC Gryfskand sp. z o.o. Matsuri International Co. Ltd. The Oxford Charcoal Company Duraflame Inc. The Dorset Charcoal Co. Fire & Flavor Grilling Company Fogo Charcoal Co Southern Fuelwood Parker Charcoal Co. The Clorox Co. Timber Charcoal Co. LLC Two Trees Products Cooks International LLC Bricapar SA Braai & BBQ International Pty Ltd PT Cavron Global Dancoal Sp. Z.o.o Carbo Namibia Pty Ltd Direct Charcoal Ltd Maurobera SA Rancher Charcoal Sagar Charcoal and Firewood Depot Blackwood Charcoal The Original Charcoal Company B & B Charcoal Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 200 Forecast Period 2023 - 2027 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $5.41 billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2027 $6.51 billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 4.7% Regions Covered Global For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/biitas 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 Dublin, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Ear Infection Treatment Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2023 - 2028)" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global Ear Infection Treatment market is poised for substantial growth, with a projected CAGR of approximately 4.29% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2028. The market is expected to expand from USD 11.73 billion in 2023 to USD 14.47 billion by 2028. Several factors, including the rising incidence of ear infections, increased research and development, and government funding for ear infection studies, are driving the market's growth. Key Highlights Here are the key highlights from the Global Ear Infection Treatment market: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the ear infection treatment market, with a decrease in the prescription rate for antibiotics for respiratory and ear infections. However, the market is expected to rebound due to product launches, rising ear-related complications, and increased research and development. Ear infections are becoming more prevalent worldwide, with a significant impact on hearing loss. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that by 2050, at least 700 million people will require hearing rehabilitation, with nearly 2.5 billion experiencing some degree of hearing loss. In India, ear diseases in children have a pooled estimated prevalence of 11.66%, leading to a substantial disease burden and related social and economic costs. Increased healthcare expenditure and research efforts have led to innovative solutions for ear infections. For instance, researchers are developing a silk-based solution to combat biofilms that encase bacteria in infected ears, and earbuds may soon be able to detect common ear infections and other ailments. Disabling hearing loss is also on the rise, with 2% of adults aged 45 to 54 experiencing it. The rate increases to 8.5% for those aged 55 to 64, 25% for those aged 65 to 74, and 50% for those 75 and older. Market Trends The Ear Infection Treatment market is characterized by several noteworthy trends, including: Middle Ear Infection Segment Growth: Acute otitis media (AOM), an infection of the middle ear, is seeing increased research and development in therapy. A 3-D-printed microplasma jet array device has been developed for otitis media treatment. Additionally, a clinical study assessing eardrums via direct visualization using an otoscope has been sponsored. North America's Dominance: North America is witnessing a high incidence rate of ear infections, with approximately 80% of children experiencing a case of otitis media during their lifetime. The region is also investing in research and development related to ear infections, driving market growth. Competitive Portfolio Olympus Corporation American Diagnostic Corporation Pfizer PLC Novartis AG Grace Medical Sanofi SA GSK plc Johnson & Johnson Cipla Ltd Otonomy Inc. Medtronic PLC Torque Pharma Conclusion The global Ear Infection Treatment market is on a growth trajectory, driven by the increasing prevalence of ear infections, research and development efforts, and rising healthcare expenditure. While high surgical costs for severe cases remain a challenge, the market is expected to continue expanding. For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/ep7l36 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 President and CEO, David Thompson, will present at the upcoming iC Life Science Summit alongside fellow Rising Star recipients The award follows the announcement by Osteal of an oversubscribed $23M Series C financing round DALLAS, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Osteal Therapeutics, Inc. (Osteal), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing a new category of combination therapies for orthopedic infections, announced today it has been named a 2023 Rising Star recipient by BioNTX in conjunction with the upcoming iC Life Science Summit in Irving, TX. Representing the next-generation of companies dedicated to addressing the greatest challenges in healthcare and life sciences, the Rising Stars are North Texas-based companies with no more than $100 Million in funding or sales, and have been nominated by the life sciences community. Chad Ronholdt, Managing Director of NVB Ventures, and Chair to the BioNTX Tech Transfer Showcase believes, The Rising Stars program is critical to the future success of life science and healthcare innovation in North Texas because it fosters the ecosystem we live and work in. Investors can see the vibrant company formation and know that the research and development work being done now will become part of the future standards of care across Texas, the Nation, and globally. Rising Stars will have the opportunity to present their company during the 2023 iC Life Science Summit on Thursday, September 28th Friday, September 29th. We are honored to be named a 2023 Rising Star recipient by BioNTX, said David Thompson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Osteal Therapeutics. Periprosthetic Joint Infection is a devastating condition whose outcomes havent improved in a meaningful way in over 20 years. We are dedicated to lifting the burden of this disease on patients, their providers, and the healthcare system. Our success so far is due in no small part to the community we chose to build this company. The friendly business environment and growing life science community fostered by BioNTX in North Texas are key ingredients to our rapid progress. Osteal recently completed an oversubscribed $23 million Series C equity financing. The proceeds leave Osteal well-funded to submit its New Drug Application to the FDA and accelerate preparation for commercial launch of VT-X7, its lead therapy for the treatment of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). The company is rapidly approaching completion of enrollment in APEX-2, a multicenter, randomized controlled clinical trial of VT-X7. The VT-X7 clinical program was designed in consultation with the FDA following receipt of orphan drug and qualified infectious disease product designations. About the 2023 iC Life Science Summit The 9th Annual BioNTX iC Life Science Summit brings together North Texas bioscience and healthcare innovation leaders for a two-day event from Thursday, September 28, 2023 to Friday, September 29, 2023. The iC Summit fosters collaboration between thought leaders, knowledge exchange, and explores the latest innovation, products, and services in the life sciences. We invite you to register for the 2023 iC Life Science Summit, please click here . About Periprosthetic Joint Infection (PJI) Affecting over 40,000 people in the U.S. annually, PJI is a rare and potentially devastating complication of joint replacement surgery in which pathogenic bacteria colonize the joint prosthesis forming difficult to remove structures called biofilms. Biofilm infections are challenging to resolve, requiring long, invasive, and expensive treatments that are often unsuccessful, resulting in high rates of permanent disability and early death. Recent retrospective analyses demonstrate that the current gold standard for treatment of PJI, two-stage exchange arthroplasty, takes an average of 16 weeks and has a success rate under 50% after 12 months, highlighting the unmet need for faster and more efficacious treatment options. About VT-X7 VT-X7 (vancomycin hydrochloride and tobramycin sulfate for irrigation/VT-X7 irrigation system) is a novel drug/device combination product designed to deliver therapeutic concentrations of vancomycin and tobramycin, well-established, broad-spectrum antibiotics, directly to the joint space and surrounding tissue to treat PJI. VT-X7 is a seven-day therapy designed to address the unmet clinical need for a rapid, reliable treatment for these challenging infections. In a Phase 2 clinical study of vancomycin and tobramycin delivered by irrigation, 100% of patients were treated and received a new permanent joint prosthesis in seven days, with 93% remaining infection free at one-year. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted VT-X7 orphan drug, fast track, and qualified infectious disease product designations. This initial application of VT-X7 represents a first-of-its-kind, multibillion-dollar opportunity to dramatically improve outcomes for a serious unmet medical need. About Osteal Therapeutics, Inc. Osteal Therapeutics is a privately held, clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing novel musculoskeletal therapeutics to treat orthopedic infections and their consequences. The company is leveraging the ability of concentrated, locally delivered antimicrobials to treat the bacterial biofilms typically responsible for musculoskeletal infections while minimizing off-target tissue exposure and associated adverse effects. Osteal employs a low-risk development strategy by using approved drugs with long histories of safety and efficacy as candidates for new routes of local delivery. The companys lead candidate, VT-X7, is in Phase 2 development to treat periprosthetic joint infections, a serious complication of joint replacement surgery. For more information, please visit: www.ostealtx.com . About BioNTX BioNTX is the premier bioscience and healthcare innovation trade organization in North Texas. We work tirelessly to grow a strong life science community through collaborative peer-to-peer networking events, high-level educational programming, fostering connections to resources, supporting companies with a purchasing consortium, and by being the voice and champion for the North Texas biosciences and healthcare innovation community. Media Contacts: Osteal Therapeutics, Inc. Todd Saunders Vice President of Marketing Email: info@ostealtx.com BioNTX Kathleen M. Otto CEO KOtto@BioNTX.org VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NINE MILE METALS LTD. (CSE: NINE, OTCQB: VMSXF, FSE: KQ9) (the Company or Nine Mile), is pleased to announce the engagement of GEMTEC Consulting Engineers and Scientists Limited (GEMTEC) and the completion of their site visit and baseline water, trace metals and flow sampling program for the Nine Mile Brook Lens Bulk Sample Project (the Project). GEMTEC completed the water, sediment, and flow sampling program on September 8, 2023, in support of the Project. Per the Province of New Brunswick Department of Natural Resource and Energy Development Minerals and Petroleum Development Branchs Guide to the Development of a Mining and Reclamation Plan document, the program will aim to provide the baseline surface water chemistry data, and baseline metal concentrations in sediment samples collected from watercourses that may be impacted by the development or operation of the Project. A total of six surface water and six sediment samples were collected (see attached Figure 1 for approximate locations) for laboratory analysis. The surface water samples were submitted to RPC Science and Engineering (RPC) in Fredericton, NB, for analysis of general chemistry, total suspended solids, total metals, as well as dissolved manganese, zinc, organic carbon, and petroleum hydrocarbons. The sediment samples were also sent for analysis, specifically for available metals and petroleum hydrocarbons (see Figures 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7). Field water quality parameters, including conductivity, dissolved oxygen, pH, and temperature, were measured using a multiparameter water quality meter. Proper QA/QC protocols were followed, which included submitting two duplicate samples for laboratory analysesnamely, one surface water sample and one sediment sample. In addition to surface water sampling, flow measurements were recorded at each of the 6 sampling sites (3 5 points along a transect perpendicular to the flow at each sampling site) using a Marsh M2000 Flo-Mate device (Figure 8). This allows for the calculation of watercourse discharge rates, volume, and speed. The locations were selected based on 1:50,000 topo map drainage, and cover Nine Mile Brook, Boucher Brook, and a tributary to Nine Mile Brook located south of the Project. Sample locations were chosen to represent both upgradient and downgradient areas to provide reference data as the Project progresses. Figure 1. Approximate Proposed Sampling Locations. Figure 2. Environmental Microbiology Sample Bottles. Figure 3. BTEX & TPH (Atlantic M.U.S.T) Hydrocarbon Bottles. Figure 4. BTEX & TPH (Atlantic M.U.S.T) Hydrocarbon Vials. Patrick J. Cruickshank, CEO and Director, stated, We are pleased to advance our Nine Mile Brook Lens bulk sample program to the next level. GEMTEC has been on-site and is designing the excavation plan in the next 2 weeks. We look forward to receiving these sample results from the Labs at RPC in Fredericton. Once we receive the site development plan, we will know the maximum bulk sample size we can excavate and send as a direct bulk shipment to our chosen smelter. RPC Fredericton is evaluating 5 smelters that could process our high-grade ore. We are currently receiving bids from several excavation mining companies in the NB area and look forward to announcing the vendor of choice. With our high ore grade and current mineral rock values, this is a significant windfall for Nine Mile, and were looking forward to our next update. Nine Mile Metals VP Exploration and Director, Gary Lohman, B.Sc., Geo., stated that, Establishing baseline water and sediment chemistry is the critical first step in the Project. The next steps for GEMTEC are to deliver the Engineering Site Excavation Plans shortly after the sample test results. With the assistance of both GEMTEC and RPC, the Company anticipates the process to proceed will be smooth with minimal delays. Figure 5: Recording PH & Oxygen levels of water. Figure 6: Collecting Sediment samples. Figure 7: Trace Metals & Mercury testing. Figure 8: Marsh M2000 Flo-Mate device. The disclosure of technical information in this news release has been prepared in accordance with Canadian regulatory requirements as set out in National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101) and reviewed and approved by Gary Lohman, B.Sc., P. Geo., VP Exploration and Director who acts as the Companys Qualified Person, and is not independent of the Company. About Nine Mile Metals Ltd.: Nine Mile Metals Ltd. is a Canadian public mineral exploration company focused on Critical Minerals Exploration (CME) VMS (Cu, Pb, Zn, Ag and Au) exploration in the world-famous Bathurst Mining Camp, New Brunswick, Canada. The Companys primary business objective is to explore its four VMS Projects: Nine Mile Brook VMS; California Lake VMS; Canoe Landing Lake (EastWest) VMS and the new Wedge VMS Projects. The Company is focused on Critical Minerals Exploration (CME), positioning for the boom in EV and green technologies requiring Copper, Silver, Lead and Zinc with a hedge with Gold. Social Media ON BEHALF OF NINE MILE METALS LTD. Patrick J Cruickshank, MBA CEO and Director T: +1.506-804-6117 E: patrick@ninemilemetals.com Forward-Looking Information: This press release may include forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, concerning the business of Nine Mile. Forward-looking information is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the management of Nine Mile. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of words such as will, may, would, expect, intend, plan, seek, anticipate, believe, estimate, predict, potential, continue, likely, could and variations of these terms and similar expressions, or the negative of these terms or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements in this press release include that (a) the program will aim to provide the baseline surface water chemistry data, and baseline metal concentrations in sediment samples collected from watercourses that may be impacted by the development or operation of the Project, (b) once we receive the site development plan, we will know the maximum bulk sample size, (c) the Company anticipates the process to proceed will be smooth with minimal delays, and (d) RPC Fredericton is evaluating 5 smelters that could process our high-grade ore. Although Nine Mile believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because Nine Mile can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or the accuracy of the contents of this release. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9f83889f-c278-4395-9dd2-6e6dcba4ecbe https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5c52eccc-eaf4-4dfa-883a-7c0a0ff0b862 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/11f24483-9d4d-45af-be64-22d2a8f8384d https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/32756491-2f84-41aa-aa6f-beddfe7b8f03 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a127beb6-3252-4066-bfeb-91160a5465f0 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a034a3d7-e7a9-46e0-92b0-48d58c20ea59 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/823411f3-e38f-4177-9413-58c0b3e3369c https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/400bac25-1a70-43da-873a-b8e62018c7d8 HALIFAX, Nova Scotia, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Silver Tiger Metals Inc. (OTCQX:SLVTF), based in Halifax, NS, focused on the historic El Tigre Mine District, today announced that Glenn Jessome, President and CEO, will present live at the Metals and Mining Virtual Investor Conference, hosted by VirtualInvestorConferences.com, on October 3rd , 2023. DATE: October 3rd, 2023 TIME: 12:30 PM ET LINK: https://bit.ly/44FOnTd Available for 1x1 meetings: October 3rd & 4th This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the company questions in real-time. If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event. It is recommended that online investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates. Learn more about the event at www.virtualinvestorconferences.com . Recent Company Highlights Silver Tiger Announces Updated Mineral Resource Estimate For The El Tigre Silver-gold Project Silver Tiger Metals Bolsters Technical Leadership Team Silver Tiger Intersects 3.3 Meters Of 1,153.6 g/t Silver Equivalent Within 10.5 Meters Of 443.9 g/t Silver Equivalent At The Southern End Of The Sulphide Zone About Silver Tiger Metals Silver Tiger Metals Inc. is a Canadian company whose management has more than 25 years experience discovering, financing and building large epithermal silver projects in Mexico. Silver Tigers 100% owned 28,414 hectare Historic El Tigre Mining District is located in Sonora, Mexico. Principled environmental, social and governance practices are core priorities at Silver Tiger. The El Tigre historic mine district is located in Sonora, Mexico and lies at the northern end of the Sierra Madre silver and gold belt which hosts many epithermal silver and gold deposits, including Dolores, Santa Elena and Las Chispas at the northern end. In 1896, gold was first discovered on the property in the Gold Hill area and mining started with the Brown Shaft in 1903. The focus soon changed to mining high-grade silver veins in the area with production coming from 3 parallel veins the El Tigre Vein, the Seitz Kelley Vein and the Sooy Vein. Underground mining on the middle El Tigre Vein extended 1,450 metres along strike and was mined on 14 levels to a depth of approximately 450 metres. The Seitz Kelley Vein was mined along strike for 1 kilometre to a depth of approximately 200 meters. The Sooy Vein was only mined along strike for 250 metres to a depth of approximately 150 metres. Mining abruptly stopped on all 3 of these veins when the price of silver collapsed to less than 20 per ounce with the onset of the Great Depression. By the time the mine closed in 1930, it is reported to have produced a total of 353,000 ounces of gold and 67.4 million ounces of silver from 1.87 million tons (Craig, 2012). The average grade mined during this period was over 2 kilograms silver equivalent per ton. About Virtual Investor Conferences Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors. Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access. Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors. CONTACTS: Silver Tiger Metals Glenn Jessome President and CEO 902-492-0298 jessome@silvertigermetals.com Virtual Investor Conferences John M. Viglotti SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access OTC Markets Group (212) 220-2221 johnv@otcmarkets.com Santa Clara, CA., Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- LifeMoves, the largest nonprofit committed to ending homelessness in Silicon Valley, proudly announces the appointment of exceptional leaders to its current Board of Directors. These new Board members are committed to LifeMoves' unwavering mission. Im honored to welcome these remarkable individuals to our Board of Directors, said Aubrey Merriman, Chief Executive Officer of LifeMoves. Strengthening our Board of Directors and staff in service to our communities is foundational. As we continue strengthening our core, we are poised to amplify our impactful initiatives and create sustainable solutions for our unhoused neighbors. It is especially important that our Board membership reflects the communities and individuals that we serve. Our Board of Directors is comprised of dedicated and diverse leaders committed to achieving our vision of thriving communities where every neighbor has a home. We are excited to leverage the talents of Ajwang Radding, Carrie Owen Plietz, Danielle Fontaine, and Laura Green, and their extraordinary leadership, unique perspectives, and lived experiences, along with Lori Castillo Martinez, whom we added earlier in the year, to fortify our determination to do our part to end homelessness. Ajwang Rading is an entrepreneur-investor, lawyer, policy advisor, and academic. His expertise includes civil and human rights, racial justice, affordable housing, climate, and the innovation economy. Rising from poverty to policy advocacy, Ajwang has worked at the Clinton Peace Centre in Northern Ireland; as a Humanity in Action Fellow in Paris, France; in the United States Senate in Washington, DC; at the Equal Justice Initiative in Montgomery, Alabama; and at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati in Palo Alto, California. He has lectured at various universities, including the Stanford Graduate School of Business, the UCLA Anderson School of Management, San Jose State University, and the University of Lucerne in Switzerland. He serves on the Human Rights Watch Silicon Valley committee and the Silicon Valley Urban Debate League advisory committee and is a Senior Fellow at Humanity in Action. Ajwang holds a BA and a JD from UCLA. Carrie Owen Plietz, Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, is the president of Kaiser Foundation Health Plan and Hospitals of Northern California, overseeing all of Kaiser Permanentes care delivery and health plan operations in Northern California. As the areas largest nonprofit health plan, KP provides care for more than 4.5 million members through its 21 hospitals and 264 medical offices in Northern California. Prior to KP, Carrie served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for a large Atlanta-based integrated health system, which included 11 hospitals with multiple outpatient and post-acute operations. She also spent 17 years at Sutter Health, a Northern California regional integrated healthcare system, serving in multiple executive leadership roles. Carrie serves as the Past Chair of the American College of Healthcare Executives, which has 48,000 members worldwide, and on the executive committee of the California Hospital Association. She is board-certified in healthcare management as an American College of Healthcare Professionals fellow. Danielle Fontaine is the Vice President and Assistant Controller at ServiceNow, Inc., and a former Financial Accounting Standards Board fellow who participated in various standard-setting projects to amend and improve accounting standards for public companies. Prior to joining ServiceNow, Danielle spent nearly five years at Google in Technical Accounting and Corporate Accounting and nine years rotating through controllership roles at Gap, Inc. in San Francisco. She started her career in public accounting at Ernst & Young in the Bay Area and she is an active Certified Public Accountant in the state of California. Danielle also volunteers her time by serving as Vice Chair of the Financial Reporting Committee of the Institute of Management Accountants. Laura Green served our country as a nurse in the U.S. Navy from 2000 to 2010. After separating from the service, she continued her education to receive a Masters Degree in Nursing. She worked at various hospitals across the state of California before settling in Palm Desert, CA, at the beginning of 2021. At that time, Laura faced a crisis when her 20-year marriage ended, leaving her with four children, no income, and no place to call home. Near the end of June 2021, Laura secured a unit at LifeMoves Haven Family House interim housing community, and after 68 days, she secured a home for her and her children in San Jose. Today, Laura is the Assistant Clinical Nurse Manager at El Camino Healthcare in Mountain View. "With the addition of these accomplished Board members, we're bolstering our capacity to expand impactful initiatives," stated Patrick Heron, LifeMoves Board Chair. "Together, we're strengthening the foundation for individuals experiencing homelessness and establishing pathways towards sustainable solutions." About LifeMoves: LifeMoves is the leading nonprofit dedicated to ending homelessness in Silicon Valley, through a holistic approach encompassing interim housing, support services, housing and employment assistance, and collaborative partnerships. LifeMoves empowers individuals, couples, and families to chart their courses to long-term stability and self-sufficiency. For more information, please visit www.lifemoves.org. Attachment Nashville, TN, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Appspace, the only unified workplace experience platform, today debuted its cutting-edge AI-powered capabilities, Appspace Connect, and the latest evolution of the Appspace Employee App. Appspace unveiled all three innovations to hundreds of customers and partners attending its World of Work (WOW23) User Conference. The Appspace AI functionality spans the entire Appspace platform to improve workplace communications and workplace management. The AI innovation produces actionable insights to enhance employee engagement and foster collaboration. By offering user-specific suggestions and automating time-consuming tasks, the AI capabilities also improve operational efficiency and drive productivity to new levels. According to recent research, most employees feel their organizations should do more to improve the workplace experience, says Thomas Philippart de Foy, Chief Innovation Officer at Appspace. Appspaces AI engine will transform the physical office into the collaboration destination employees want, while keeping remote and frontline workers informed and engaged through a better digital workplace. At WOW23, Appspace showcased three initial focus areas for its AI engine: Insights AI - Provides customers with immediate data from the physical and digital workplace to recognize employee engagement trends. Organizations can identify productivity declines, reduce employee attrition, and improve onboarding. - Provides customers with immediate data from the physical and digital workplace to recognize employee engagement trends. Organizations can identify productivity declines, reduce employee attrition, and improve onboarding. Generative AI - Helps communications teams create engaging content to launch multi-channel campaigns. Messages can be automatically summarized for employees to easily read or hear. - Helps communications teams create engaging content to launch multi-channel campaigns. Messages can be automatically summarized for employees to easily read or hear. Conversational AI - Assists employees with organizing in-person meetings. Appspace Conversational AI recommends multiple times, locations, and workspaces to make collaboration easier. The companys second innovation announcement was Appspace Connect, a centralized hub and marketplace for Appspace and partner apps and integrations. Customers will be able to discover and manage new and existing integrations across multiple categories, including: User Authentication and Management - integrate with HR and corporate systems to automate user creation, permissions, and management. - integrate with HR and corporate systems to automate user creation, permissions, and management. IoT Devices - connect sensors, docking stations, power stations, and other devices to streamline employee workflows and help organizations achieve efficiency goals. - connect sensors, docking stations, power stations, and other devices to streamline employee workflows and help organizations achieve efficiency goals. Content Management - create once, publish everywhere, and be sure youre engaging the right audience, even if the content is created outside of Appspace. - create once, publish everywhere, and be sure youre engaging the right audience, even if the content is created outside of Appspace. Productivity and Workplace - integrate calendars, messaging apps, floorplans from IWMS providers, and other workplace solutions to keep employees in sync. Finally, Appspace revealed the next edition of its Employee App solution, setting a new benchmark for app customization. Customers will have complete branding control within their employee app, enabling immersive branding at both global and local levels. Users can easily personalize their app settings, including selecting features based on their individual needs. These industry-first capabilities will include AI-based suggestions and address office, frontline, and remote workers' specific needs, creating a truly employee-centric app experience. Demonstrations of these innovations and other exciting announcements kicked off Appspace WOW23. The first-of-its-kind user conference for Appspace customers dives deep into all aspects of the workplace experience. The entire conference immerses attendees in the Appspace platform, from wayfinding to digital signage. The three-day conference includes industry thought leaders, an Appspace partner showcase, and over 25 breakout sessions covering the hottest topics in workplace experience. About Appspace Appspace is the first workplace experience platform to connect people, places, and spaces through digital signage, space reservation, an employee app, a modern intranet, and more. Now, organizations can replace disjointed tools and unite their digital and physical workplaces with a single platform that makes work an experience everyone loves. Thats why more than 160 Fortune 500 companies and 12 million on-site, remote, and frontline employees rely on Appspace every day. Learn more at www.appspace.com. Portland, Oregon, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Last week, Cayuse announced the 2023 customer award winners at their annual conference, Connect by Cayuse, which brought together nearly 650 people across 343 organizations and 10 countries for three days of exploring the present and future of research administration. The celebration of community progress and accomplishments included the presentation awards in recognition of excellence in research administration across four categories: Outstanding Service, Modernization, Productivity, and Contributions to the Connect Community. Cayuse invites you to join in the celebration of this years award winners, Kennesaw State Universitys Rachel Kinney, Oakland Universitys Andrea Buford, the Magee-Womens Research Institute and Foundation, the Idaho State University Office for Research. Rachel Kinney, Executive Director of Sponsored Program Administration at Kennesaw State University: Winner of the 2023 Sheri Pulis Award for Outstanding Service in Research Administration In honor of Sheri Pulis, a cherished Cayuse customer who passed away in 2019, the Sheri Pulis Award recognizes individuals who have an incredible impact and drive progress in research administration. Cayuse is proud to present this years award to Rachel Kinney in honor of her contributions to the industry and her steadfast commitment to the Cayuse community. The Magee-Womens Research Institute and Foundation: Winner of the 2023 Modernization Award The Modernization Award acknowledges individuals and organizations engaged in updating and modernizing their systems across the research lifecycle. Cayuse is pleased to present this years award to The Magee-Womens Research Institute and Foundation in recognition of streamlining their processes and ensuring transparency and collaboration across departments by modernizing with five new electronic management solutions. The Idaho State University Office for Research: Winner of the 2023 Productivity Award The Productivity Award honors individuals or organizations who have engaged in reducing the burden for their research staff. Cayuse is delighted to present this years award to The Idaho State Universitys Office for Research for the departments successful efforts to reduce review times and eliminate organizational silos significantly. Andrea Buford, Director of the Office of Sponsored Programs at Oakland University: Winner of the 2023 Community Champion Award The Community Champion Award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated leadership and commitment to supporting the research community by sharing their insights, advice, and expertise with their peers. Cayuse is thrilled to present this award to Andrea Buford in acknowledgment of her numerous contributions to her peers in the Cayuse Community and the particular way she blends deep knowledge of research administration with a razor wit and a sense of humor. Cayuse sincerely thanks each of this years award recipients and all attendees of Connect 2023 for contributing to another successful Connect Conference and for all of their continued contributions to the Research Community. About Cayuse For nearly 30 years, Cayuse has empowered organizations to conduct globally connected research and modernize research administration. Our industry-leading cloud-based research platform powers a suite of applications that maximizes researcher success, improves collaboration, and simplifies work across the entire research lifecycle, including commercialization and tracking of research outcomes. The Cayuse global community includes academic institutions, hospitals and health systems, pharmaceutical and biotech companies, government agencies, independent research institutions, and non-profit organizations. Attachment AKRON, Ohio, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Valmark Financial Group, a pioneer in the financial services industry, is proud to commemorate its 60th anniversary, a remarkable milestone that signifies six decades of unwavering commitment to Member Firms and their clients. This extraordinary journey began with a simple, yet powerful principle centered on The Golden Rule, and a vision to elevate the level of service provided to clients through continued innovation. Established by Lawrence (Larry) S. Rybka as an agency for a single company in Cleveland, Ohio, Valmark has evolved into a full-service broker-dealer, SEC-registered investment adviser, and multi-company brokerage agency with a team of 120+ dedicated professionals supporting over 110 independently branded and owned financial services firms across 31 U.S. states. Larry J. Rybka, Chairman & CEO of Valmark Financial Group, reflecting on his father's visionary leadership, said "My dad was a trailblazer who recognized early on that the traditional distribution form of life insurance through career agents was equivalent to a milkman delivering milk door to door. He also saw the potential in offering both investments and insurance and recognized the best financial professionals wanted to build their own business, as opposed to working for a single company. Valmark's legacy of innovation is also reflected in its 25-year partnership with The University of Akron. In 1998, the company embarked on a groundbreaking collaboration with the university's finance department to establish one of the country's pioneering financial planning programs. This visionary initiative provides graduates with the tools to excel in the financial planning field and to qualify for the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP) exam. Graduates of this program have created a dynamic pipeline of exceptionally talented professionals who have joined Valmark and risen to become an integral backbone of its senior leadership team. As a privately held company since its inception, Valmark stands as an unwavering beacon of continuity within an industry characterized by consolidation and private equity roll ups. This enduring dedication has preserved the company's capacity to make resolute decisions with unwavering integrity, nurtured a culture of innovation, and seamlessly extended to a third generation of leadership led by President, Caleb Callahan, and Chief Investment Officer, Michael McClary. Both embody dynamic leadership, their roots tracing back to their initial roles as interns from The University of Akron, subsequently advancing into full-time positions as specialists, adeptly transitioning to managerial roles, and now proudly assuming pivotal positions in Valmark's third generation of leadership. "I am deeply honored to stand as part of the third generation of leadership at Valmark, said Callahan. As we celebrate 60 years of commitment to our Members, clients, and the Golden Rule, I am reminded of the incredible journey that has brought us here. My gratitude knows no bounds as I reflect on the opportunity to shape the future alongside a team that shares the same dedication to excellence and innovation. The legacy of Valmark is not only a testament to our past achievements but a promise of continued growth, integrity, and innovative solutions and services as we step confidently into the next 60 years." As Valmark strides boldly into its seventh decade, its unyielding dedication to pioneering financial innovation at the nexus of advisory services, investments, and insurance stands resolute and unwavering. This commitment is seamlessly intertwined with the companys dedication to the Golden Rule, values, and relationships. This unshakable foundation not only honors the remarkable journey of the past but propels the company into a bright future. As we celebrate 60 years of growth, much has changed, but I am gratified to see a continued commitment to truth, values, and relationships," affirmed Larry S. Rybka, Founder of Valmark Financial Group. Looking back, I am immensely proud of what we've achieved and the firms that have chosen to be a part of Valmark. The collaboration with our firms and the second and third generations of leadership have taken the company far beyond what I imagined. I am filled with certainty that our legacy will continue to shine as we hold true to our purpose to Bring the Golden Rule to Life." About Valmark Financial Group, LLC Valmark Financial Group is a holding company of several subsidiaries, including: Executive Insurance Agency, Inc., a national producer group; Valmark Securities, Inc., a broker-dealer and member of both FINRA and SIPC; Valmark Advisers, Inc., a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission registered investment adviser; and the Valmark Policy Management Company, LLC, which provides ongoing policy management and monitoring services for life insurance policyholders. With a proud history of working with independently owned financial services firms committed to high ethical standards in 31states throughout the United States, Valmark offers a wide range of insurance and investment solutions for high net-worth clients. Headquartered in Akron, Ohio with operations in St. Paul, Minnesota, Valmark, through its affiliated entities, has helped its member firms place over $60 billion of life insurance death benefits and manage insurance policies with a cumulative cash value of over $8 billion dollars. Valmarks affiliated RIA, Valmark Advisers, has an estimated $7.5 billion in assets under management, including over a billion in variable sub-account assets within its TOPS funds. To learn more about Valmark Financial Group, visit www.valmarkfg.com. Securities offered through Valmark Securities, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. A video accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/92460809-a144-4f99-bbd2-9b13a6ffa84a A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/75f594c1-cad0-4eb4-875d-135edf2e12f9 Evesboro, New Jersey, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mount Laurel, NJ: South Jersey's Natural Awakenings, as a lead sponsor, invites attendees to come to the Holistic Health and Healing Expo 2023 (HHH Expo) where allure meets awareness, and passion intertwines with purpose. Set against the backdrop of the opulent Westin Mount Laurel Hotel on Sunday, October 1, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., this six-hour event promises to be a sultry blend of modern wellness and holistic enchantment, allowing time for absorbing multiple sessions, delectable meals and treats, individual treatments, and investing in gifts for self and others just in time for the holidays. The HHH Expo is more than just an event; it's a sensory experience. Dive into a world where the seductive rhythms of integrative health, the allure of antiaging secrets, and the irresistible charm of sustainable living come alive. "The focus is on crafting an atmosphere that's as intoxicating as it is enlightening," purrs Shae Marcus, the magnetic force behind the HHH Expo and the chic publisher of Natural Awakenings of South Jersey. Let integrative medicine seduce your senses and spirit. These sessions, held by dozens of professional and paraprofessional speakers, a fusion of ancient rituals and avant-garde treatments, promise a holistic allure, caressing the body, soul, mind, and heart. Revel in personalized wellness escapades that promise such wonderful rejuvenation that they feel risque. Turn heads and hearts with the HHH expo's showcase on antiaging. Dive into secrets that celebrate both inner fire and outer radiance, offering a holistic approach to ageless allure and vivacity. Unearth the potent elixirs and treatments whispered about in elite circles and witness firsthand the transformative power of cutting-edge beauty innovations. This is where timeless beauty meets modern science, creating a symphony of elegance and rejuvenation. And as the day heats up, cool down with sustainable living insights. Discover how to live large while loving the planet, from eco-luxe living spaces to green glam products. Embrace a lifestyle where opulence meets responsibility and every choice elevates living standards and contributes to a healthier, more vibrant Earth. Take pleasure in workshops that unveil the art of sustainable luxury, ensuring a life left with a footprint as purposeful as it is conscious. Guests are promised an immersive wellness odyssey peppered with tantalizing insights from top integrative health mavens, sultry spiritual guides, and eco-luxe living aficionados. The expo is not just about attending; it's about indulging, igniting, and inspiring. Therefore, secure a spot through registration now at the HHH Expo. And the sizzle doesn't stop in Mount Laurel. Mark the calendars for the next steamy soirees in Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania, on Sunday, October 15, and travel to a sun-kissed edition in Deerfield Beach, Florida, on January 21, 2024. Get ready to be entranced: Secure a spot at South Jersey's most sensuous holistic health rendezvous. To register and embark on this scintillating journey, visit the http://www.HHHExpo.com portal. For a sneak peek and more details, as well as to become a vendor or sponsor, connect with Shae Marcus, the enchantress behind the Holistic Health & Healing Expo and the illustrious Publisher of Natural Awakenings of South Jersey. Phone: (856) 797-2227, Email: info@hhhexpo.com. ### For more information about Natural Awakenings South Jersey, contact the company here: Natural Awakenings South Jersey Shae Marcus 856-797-2227 publisher@nasouthjersey.com 230 N Maple Ave STE B1 #302 Marlton, NJ 08053 GLENDALE, Calif., Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Habit Burger Grill unveiled a temporary rebrand at its Glendale restaurant as The Habit Sandwich Grill amidst a spirited debate centered around its iconic offering, The Santa Barbara Char. Although The Santa Barbara Char has graced the menu as a burger for a full decade, recently a social media post prompted fans of the brand and dedicated employees to rally for its reclassification as a sandwich, primarily because it's served on bread rather than the customary burger bun. This temporary alteration of the restaurant's name has been a decade-long culmination of this ongoing dispute. The dispute surged into the spotlight recently due to a video from renowned burger influencer @SamBurgerRodriguez who asked her followers whether or not the Santa Barbara Char was a sandwich or a burger, triggering an avalanche of passionate responses. One user commented, "No disrespect to burgers, but that [expletive redacted] thing is a sandwich, and I will wrestle anyone who says otherwise." While an opposing comment proclaimed, Its a burger a sandwich has deli meats cmon.(sic)wtf are we this dumbed down??? At the unveiling, Chief Marketing Officer, Jack Hinchliffe, stepped up to the mic for the big reveal. We're here to address the controversy over our famous Santa Barbara Char, Hinchliffe explained at the podium. This unveiling marks a significant announcement. After a decade of internal disagreements and passionate pleas from our fans as well as the most recent video on social media, we're officially opening the door for the possibility of the Santa Barbara Char to join the ranks of sandwiches. Hinchliffe went on to express gratitude for employee Kassandra McCalister, the Habit Truck Manager who took to the streets, bullhorn in hand, to gather signatures for a petition in an effort to re-categorize the product, all of which was documented on the brands social media channels. Kass, our Habit truck manager, has been collecting signatures on the streets for weeks, and the numbers don't lie. I'm thrilled to announce that the new Habit SANDWICH Grill will serve as a symbolic starting point for this impending debate." McCalister's journey extends beyond street campaigning. In an effort to get opinions from both sides of the sandwich vs. burger political aisle, she sought expert advice, including Andrew Binder, owner of L.A.'s iconic "Philippe The Original," famed for the French Dip Sandwich's invention. Binder, a fourth-generation sandwich expert, unequivocally labeled the Santa Barbara Char as a sandwich. On October 19, she'll join burger aficionado Sam Zien, aka Sam the Cooking Guy, at Samburgers Restaurant in San Diego to prepare the Santa Barbara Char and get his take. "We appreciate Kassandra's determination to prove this is a sandwich, and she's making progress and has opened our eyes to this cause, said Hinchliffe. That said, we've also heard passionate arguments from anti-sandwich groups and burger advocates who beg to differ. Therefore, we are turning to the public for a verdict. Is it a sandwich or a burger? The vote is in your hands!" Hinchliffe proclaimed. Armed with oversized ceremonial scissors, Kass performed the symbolic ribbon-cutting of the newly renamed restaurant. To participate in this historic decision, fans can vote when ordering the Santa Barbara Char on habitburger.com/sbc by purchasing it from either the sandwich or burger category, or by using the hashtags #HabitTeamSandwich or #HabitTeamBurger on social media platforms until October 31. The results will be unveiled at a live event on November 3, where the Santa Barbara Char will remain a burger icon or embrace its sandwich destiny. Connect with The Habit Burger Grill on social media at facebook.com/habitburgergrill , instagram.com/habitburgergrill , twitter.com/habitburger , tiktok.com/@habitburgergrill , and youtube.com/habittube . Visit online at habitburger.com , or download The Habit Mobile App. About The Habit Restaurants, Inc. Born in Santa Barbara, California in 1969, The Habit Burger Grill is a burger-centric, fast-casual restaurant concept that specializes in preparing fresh, cooked-to-order chargrilled burgers and handcrafted sandwiches featuring grilled chicken and sushi-grade ahi tuna cooked over an open flame. In addition, it features fresh handcrafted salads and an appealing selection of sides and shakes. The Habit Burger Grill was featured in Newsweeks Americas Favorite Restaurant Chains 2023; its Tempura Green Beans was named as the top green bean dish in The Daily Meals Ranking Green Bean Dishes From 11 Chain Restaurants in 2023; and it was named in Thrillists list of Underrated Burger Chains that Need to be in Every State! The Habit Burger Grill has since grown to over 370 restaurants in 14 states throughout Arizona, California, Florida, Idaho, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Utah, Virginia and Washington as well as international restaurants in China and Cambodia. More information is available at www.habitburger.com. The Habit Burger Grill Press Contact: HBGMedia@yum.com Memphis, TN, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The traveling exhibition Emmett Till & Mamie Till-Mobley: Let the World See will open at the National Civil Rights Museum on October 7. Because Emmett Tills story impacted multi-generations, it is important for the Museum to preserve its legacy and lessons for future generations. Let the world see what they did to my baby, was the declaration Mamie Till engraved in the annals of history. The exhibit shares how a mothers bravery and fight for justice more than six decades ago fueled the civil rights movement in America. When Emmetts body arrived in Chicago, his mother insisted on an open casket so the world could see the ugly face of hatred and racism. Created by the Till family, Emmett Till & Mamie Till-Mobley Institute, Emmett Till Interpretive Center, and The Childrens Museum of Indianapolis, the National Civil Rights Museum is the exhibits seventh and final stop before being permanently displayed at the Emmett Till Interpretive Center, steps away from where the trial for his murder took place in the Second District Tallahatchie County Courthouse in Sumner, MS. Historic markers installed near the Tallahatchie River (acknowledging where Emmett Tills lifeless body was recovered) have been continually stolen, shot at and vandalized. One sign made headlines after a group of students from the University of Mississippi posed in front of it with rifles and then posted their photo on Instagram in March of 2019. That shot-riddled sign will be on display to show that racism continues today as people try to destroy the memory of what happened to 14-year-old Emmett Till. Since then, incremental progress has been made to preserve the legacy of Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley including several books and an ABC mini-documentary series called, Let the World See. A docu-drama called Women of the Movement was partially shot in Memphis and premiered at the museum in December 2022. Props and artifacts from the film were donated to the museum and included in the display. In August 2022, members of the museum staff sojourned to the key locations in which Tills murder and investigation unraveled. Footage of their encounters is also included in the exhibition. After 100 years and 200 failed attempts, a bill named the Emmett Till Antilynching Act was finally passed in March 2022. It criminalizes lynching and makes it punishable by up to 30 years in prison. Exhibit developers hope visitors will feel empowered to stand up against racial violence and to make a difference in their own communities. Rev. Wheeler Parker, Tills cousin and the last surviving witness to his abduction, stated History is history. Its not who we are today. What matters is what we choose to do about it today. So, what are you going to do? Parker will be at the National Civil Rights Museum on October 4, to share his personal story through the book, A Few Days Full of Trouble, with co-author Christopher Benson. Attendees of the evening book talk will get a sneak peek of the exhibition. This project was made possible in part by The National Endowment for the Humanities: Democracy Demands Wisdom, the Maddox Foundation in Hernando, MS, The Institute for Museum and Library, and The Historic Preservation Fund administered by the National Park Service, Department of the Interior. About the Emmett Till & Mamie Till-Mobley Institute The Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley Institute, a non-profit organization, is engaged in research and social justice advocacy. We are dedicated to preserving the memory and historical significance of the life and death of Emmett Louis Till, and preserving the social action legacy of his mother, Mamie Till-Mobley, to foster educational opportunities and civic engagement among youth. Our focus is on funding research, education and public programs aimed at encouraging enlightened participation in the democratic process and working to build and maintain a civil society. For more information about the Till Institute, visit www.tillinstitute.org. About the Emmett Till Interpretive Center The Emmett Till Interpretive Center was formed to confront the brutal truth of the 1955 murder of 14-year-old Emmett Till in the Mississippi Delta and to seek justice for the Till family and Delta community. The Center aims to tell the story of Emmett Till and his mother, Mamie Till-Mobley, as an act of restorative justice to create the conditions necessary to begin the process of racial healing in Mississippi and across the nation. About The Children's Museum of Indianapolis The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is a nonprofit institution committed to creating extraordinary learning experiences across the arts, sciences, and humanities that have the power to transform the lives of children and families. For more information about The Children's Museum, visit www.childrensmuseum.org. About the National Civil Rights Museum The NATIONAL CIVIL RIGHTS MUSEUM, located at the historic Lorraine Motel where civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated, gives a comprehensive overview of the American Civil Rights Movement from slavery to the present. Since the Museum opened in 1991, millions of visitors worldwide have come, including more than 90,000 students annually. Serving as the new public square, the Museum is steadfast in its mission to honor and preserve the site of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.s assassination. It chronicles the American civil rights movement and tells the story of the ongoing struggle for human rights, serving as a catalyst to inspire action to create positive social change. A Smithsonian Affiliate and an internationally acclaimed cultural institution, the Museum is recognized as a 2019 National Medal Award recipient by the Institute of Museums and Library Services (IMLS), the top national honor for museums and libraries. It is a TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Top 5% U.S. Museum, USA Today's Top 10 Best American Iconic Attractions; Top 10 Best Historical Spots in the U.S. by TLC's Family Travel; Must See by the Age of 15 by Budget Travel and Kids; Top 10, American Treasures by USA Today; and Best Memphis Attraction by The Commercial Appeal and the Memphis Business Journal. civilrightsmuseum.org Attachment PERRYSBURG, Ohio, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- O-I Glass, Inc. (NYSE: OI) has scheduled its third quarter 2023 conference call and webcast for Wednesday, November 1, 2023, at 8 a.m. EDT. The Companys news release for the third quarter 2023 earnings will be issued after the market closes on Tuesday, October 31. What: O-I Conference Call and Webcast Earnings presentation materials will also be posted on the O-I website, www.o-i.com/investors, when the earnings news release is issued. When: Wednesday, November 1, 2023, at 8 a.m. EDT Where: https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/178683184 or at www.o-i.com/investors, Events and Presentations page The webcast will be archived at www.o-i.com/investors until November 2024. About O-I At O-I Glass, Inc. (NYSE: OI), we love glass and were proud to be one of the leading producers of glass bottles and jars around the globe. Glass is not only beautiful, its also pure, healthy and completely recyclable, making it the most sustainable rigid packaging material. Headquartered in Perrysburg, Ohio (USA), O-I is the preferred partner for many of the worlds leading food and beverage brands. We innovate in line with customers needs to create iconic packaging that builds brands around the world. Led by our diverse team of approximately 24,000 people across 69 plants in 19 countries, O-I achieved revenues of $6.9 billion in 2022. Learn more about us: o-i.com / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / LinkedIn contact: SASHA SEKPEH Investor Relations Coordinator alexandra.sekpeh@o-i.com 567.336.5128 Attachment MILWAUKEE, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Aspiring medical students, the path to your dreams just became clearer. The prestigious Dr. Scott Kamelle Scholarship for Future Doctors is thrilled to announce a one-time award of $1,000 to support the next generation of medical professionals. This scholarship, founded by esteemed Gynecologic Oncologist Dr. Scott Kamelle, aims to recognize and nurture students who exhibit unwavering dedication to the field of medicine and possess the potential to revolutionize healthcare. The Dr. Scott Kamelle Scholarship for Future Doctors invites current undergraduate students pursuing a medical career and high school students with plans to attend university for a medical degree to apply. This scholarship is more than just financial assistance; it's a testament to the belief in the power of passionate and committed individuals to shape the future of healthcare. Criteria for Eligibility To be considered for the Dr. Scott Kamelle Scholarship for Future Doctors, applicants must meet the following rigorous criteria: 1. Academic Pursuit: You must be a current undergraduate student actively pursuing a career in medicine or a high school student with plans to attend university for a medical degree. 2. Excellence in Academics: We value exceptional academic performance and are looking for students who have demonstrated outstanding scholastic achievements. 3. Commitment to Medicine: You should possess a deep commitment to the field of medicine, showing a genuine passion for making a positive impact on the lives of patients. 4. Dedication to Personal Growth: We seek individuals who exhibit a strong desire for personal and professional growth, continuously striving to expand their knowledge and skills within the medical field. 5. Essay Requirement: As part of the application process, you will need to submit a thoughtful essay of under 1000 words in response to the following prompt: "Describe a significant challenge currently faced by the healthcare industry and propose an innovative solution to address it effectively." 6. Problem-Solving Skills: We are interested in applicants who demonstrate a creative and resourceful approach to problem-solving, showcasing their ability to identify and tackle complex issues within the healthcare sector. We encourage all eligible students who meet these criteria to apply for the Dr. Scott Kamelle Scholarship for Future Doctors. We look forward to reviewing your applications and learning more about your aspirations in the medical field. Meet Dr. Scott Kamelle Dr. Scott Kamelle is an esteemed Gynecologic Oncologist and former Director of Gyn Oncology at Aurora Health Care in Milwaukee. With a wealth of experience and expertise in the field, Dr. Kamelle has dedicated his career to providing exceptional care to women facing gynecologic cancers. His commitment to advancing healthcare and improving patient outcomes serves as the foundation for the Scholarship for Future Doctors. Dr. Kamelle embarked on his medical journey at the University of California, Berkeley, where he obtained his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a minor in Dramatic Art. He then pursued his medical degree at Boston University School of Medicine, followed by a residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Kamelle further specialized in Gynecologic Oncology through a fellowship at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Throughout his career, Dr. Kamelle has held various esteemed positions, including practicing in Chicago before joining Aurora Health Care in 2007. He chaired the Robotic Steering Committee at Aurora for over a decade and has been an Associate Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine. Dr. Kamelles dedication to improving healthcare systems and patient care has been recognized through numerous awards and accolades, including being named a Top Doctor by Milwaukee Magazine and receiving the Faculty Teaching Award. Driven by his passion for nurturing the next generation of medical professionals, Dr. Kamelle established the Scholarship for Future Doctors. By offering financial support and recognition through an essay contest, this scholarship aims to empower aspiring doctors and inspire them to make significant contributions to the field of medicine. Dr. Kamelles vision is to foster a community of dedicated individuals who are committed to transforming healthcare and improving the lives of patients. Application Details The deadline to apply for the Dr. Scott Kamelle Scholarship for Future Doctors is January 15, 2024. The winner of this prestigious scholarship will be announced on February 15, 2024. For more information and to access the application, please visit the official website at https://drscottkamellescholarship.com/. About Dr. Scott Kamelle Scholarship for Future Doctors: The Dr. Scott Kamelle Scholarship for Future Doctors is dedicated to supporting the next generation of medical professionals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to medicine and a commitment to addressing the healthcare challenges of tomorrow. Founded by Dr. Scott Kamelle, an esteemed Gynecologic Oncologist, this scholarship aims to empower and inspire aspiring doctors to make significant contributions to the field of medicine. For more information, please visit https://drscottkamellescholarship.com/. Florian Seefried - Getty Images While Kim Kardashian has notoriously steered clear of alcohol, the reality star began to "drink a little" and "let loose" in the last year. And while she typically sticks to "tequila and pineapple juice," Kim gave beer a try during the The Kardashians premiere...for the first time ever?! After arriving in Cabo for a family trip, Khloe admitted she had "never had a regular beer" before, besides a Red Stripe in Jamaica. While sisters Kendall and Kylie Jenner were shocked at the admission, Kim quickly chimed in to agree. "I don't think I will like," she said, as Khloe handed over the bottle of Corona. "Oh, it is kind of sweet! I've never had a beer." Fans were quick to bring out the receipts proving that Kim has in fact tried beer before. In a slideshow shared to X a.k.a. Twitter, one user pointed out that Kim has not only tried beer, but was photographed drinking one in full-on lederhosen with momager Kris Jenner, carrying Guinness pints, and doing a keg stand. TikTokers similarly called out Kardashian, with one writing, "why do they love to lie?" Another shared photos from Kim Kardashian's UK pub outing in March. "Imagine slugging pints at the pub and all of a sudden Kim K rolls up and orders a round of baby Guinness?" Khloe Kardashian never having a beer before is the most Calabasas thing ever #khloekardashian #TheKardashians @KimKardashian Stee (@Stephen0708936) September 28, 2023 Kim and Khloe's (maybe fake?) admissions brought out the internet trolls, naturally. "These two could be the least relatable people on planet earth," one user wrote on Twitter. "Khloe Kardashian never having a beer before is the most Calabasas thing ever," another added. Story continues It's not, however, the first time the family has been accused of being out of touch. In fact, in season 3 of The Kardashians, Kris Jenner handed Khloe a whopping $300 just to buy burgers from In-N-Out. "I dont know how the f8ck you have never been to a fast food restaurant. We dont need hundreds of dollars," the Khloe said. "My mom gave me $100 [to pay for cheeseburgers]. She tried to give me $300 I dont think she realized how much fast food restaurants are." You Might Also Like New York, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) celebrates the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of Pombiliti (cipaglucosidase alfa-atga) + Opfolda (miglustat) 65mg capsules for adults living with late-onset Pompe disease (LOPD). This two-component therapy is indicated for adults weighing 40 kg who are not improving on their current enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), and is the first and only two-component therapy for elibible adults with LOPD. Pombiliti + Opfolda will be made available and marketed in the United States by Amicus Therapeutics. Pombiliti + Opfolda is a novel two-component therapy consisting cipaglucosidase alfa-atga, a long-term enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), and miglustat, an oral enzyme stabilizer. Pombiliti is a unique recombinant human acid alpha-glucosidase (rhGAA) enzyme with optimized carbohydrate structures designed to enhance uptake into muscle cells. Once in a cell, Pombiliti can be processed into its most active and mature form to break down glycogen, while Opfolda helps stabilize the enzyme and minimize the loss of enzyme activity in the blood. In clinical studies, Pombiliti + Opfolda was associated with demonstrated improvements in both musculoskeletal and respiratory measures, and was the first investigational treatment for Pompe disease to be granted breakthrough therapy designation from the FDA in 2019. "We are extremely pleased with the recent approval of Pombiliti and Opfolda, said Sharon Hesterlee, Ph.D., Chief Research Officer, MDA. MDA funded the foundational work at Duke University that contributed to the development of the first drug approved for Pompe, Myozyme, and its gratifying to see the evolution of new therapies. MDA will continue to stand by the Pompe community in support of these efforts. The opportunity to have additional options for treatment of Pompe disease is always a benefit, said Barry Byrne, M.D., Ph.D., Chief Medical Advisor, MDA and Associate Chair of Pediatrics and Director of the Powell Gene Therapy Center at the University of Florida. Given the mechanism of action for the 2-component therapy, Pombiliti plus miglustat, we expect some patients to have additional benefit compared to conventional therapy. In general, there is an early response in clinical studies with changes seen in the first 12 weeks. Following the initial response, there is stabilization of muscle and respiratory function. Todays FDA approval of Pombiliti and Opfolda is a testament to the power of science, medicine, and our passionate determination to improve the lives of people living with Pompe disease. This approval embodies our Amicus spirit, passion, and resilience and is a very meaningful step for the Pompe community. I am just so immensely proud of our team, and so very grateful to everyone who has worked to bring this medicine to this approval. Most especially to all of the people living with Pompe around the world, said John F. Crowley, Executive Chairman of Amicus Therapeutics, Inc. The approval of Pombiliti and Opfolda provides another option for patients with Pompe disease, said Paul Melmeyer, Vice President, Public Policy and Advocacy, MDA. We are grateful to the Pompe community who have helped advance this therapy, especially the patients and families who participated in clinical trials. Pombiliti and Opfolda has the potential to become the next standard of care in Pompe disease and should make a true difference in the lives of patients and their families. About Pompe Disease Pompe disease, also known as acid maltase deficiency, is a rare inherited degenerative muscle disorder that affects approximately 3,500 people in the US. Pompe disease results from mutations in the gene encoding the acid alpha-glucosidase (GAA) enzyme, which plays a role in the bodys ability to break down the complex sugar glycogen. Mutations in the gene reduce or completely eliminate GAA enzyme, leading to the accumulation of glycogen in the body. Glycogen builds up and damages muscle cells, particularly in the heart and skeletal muscles. This can lead to muscle weakness and premature death from respiratory or heart failure. The severity of the disease and the age of onset are both related to the degree of enzyme deficiency. Pompe affects an estimated 1 in every 40,000 births, although the incidence is increasing as more newborns are screened for the disease. Pompe is classified into 2 subtypes: infantile-onset Pompe disease (IOPD) and late-onset Pompe disease (LOPD). In IOPD, symptoms typically appear during the first year of life and tend to progress very quickly. With LOPD, symptoms may not be apparent right away, and can mimic those of other disorders. LOPD is typically diagnosed in children older than 1 year of age and as late as the second to sixth decade of life, depending on when disease symptoms manifest. Individuals with LOPD may not develop any noticeable symptoms until adulthood, making it possible for someone with Pompe to go decades without being diagnosed. In late-onset disease, the median age at diagnosis has been reported at 38 years, with most experiencing a substantial delay between the initial onset of symptoms and the eventual diagnosis of the disorder. Clinical trials support approval of Pombiliti + Opfolda The FDA based its approval on clinical data from the global Phase 3 pivotal study (PROPEL), the only randomized, controlled trial in LOPD to include patients previously treated with enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) in the high unmet need population, in addition to ERT-naive patients. The 52-week, double-blind study was designed to assess the efficacy, safety and tolerability of Pombiliti + Opfolda compared to the current standard of care, alglucosidase alfa, an approved ERT marketed under the name Lumizyme in the U.S., and Myozyme elsewhere. Findings from PROPEL showed that Pombiliti + Opfolda demonstrated significant improvements in the key domains of Pompe disease, i.e., muscle strength, pulmonary and motor function, patient reported outcomes and biomarkers. Peer reviewed results from the PROPEL show treatment with the Pombiliti + Opfolda provided clinically meaningful improvements over standard of care, including ERT experienced patients. Muscular Dystrophy Associations funding in Pompe research Since its inception, MDA has invested more than $5 million in Pompe Disease research, including nearly $500,000 in research grants in the last five years. This year, as part of the MDA 2023 Young Investigators Awards, Dr. Andrea Armani of the University of Zurich was awarded $210,000 for his project involving ground-breaking methodology for unraveling hidden signals at the onset of Pompe pathogenesis, with the expectation of finding novel potential targets to boost current traditional enzyme replacing therapies. For more information, please visit MDA research. About Muscular Dystrophy Association Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) is the #1 voluntary health organization in the United States for people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related neuromuscular diseases. For over 70 years, MDA has led the way in accelerating research, advancing care, and advocating for the support of our families. MDA's mission is to empower the people we serve to live longer, more independent lives. To learn more visit mda.org and follow MDA on Instagram, Facebook, X, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Attachment GUADALAJARA, Mexico, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico, S.A.B. de C.V. (NYSE: PAC; BMV: GAP) (the Company or GAP) announces that in accordance with the resolution approved in the Annual General Ordinary Shareholders Meeting held on April 13th, 2023, regarding the dividend payment of Ps.14.84 (FOURTEEN PESOS 84/100 M.N.) per each outstanding share, the Company decided to do the payment in four installments. The third installment of the dividend payment will be equivalent to Ps. 3.71 (THREE PESOS 71/100 M.N.) per each outstanding share and will be paid on October 12, 2023. COMPANY DESCRIPTION Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico, S.A.B. de C.V. (GAP) operates 12 airports throughout Mexicos Pacific region, including the major cities of Guadalajara and Tijuana, the four tourist destinations of Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, La Paz, and Manzanillo, and six other mid-sized cities: Hermosillo, Guanajuato, Morelia, Aguascalientes, Mexicali and Los Mochis. In February 2006, GAPs shares were listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol PAC and on the Mexican Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol GAP. In April 2015, GAP acquired 100% of Desarrollo de Concessioner Aeroportuarias, S.L., which owns a majority stake in MBJ Airports Limited, a company operating Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, Jamaica. In October 2018, GAP entered into a concession agreement for the Norman Manley International Airport operation in Kingston, Jamaica, and took control of the operation in October 2019. This press release may contain forward-looking statements. These statements are statements that are not historical facts and are based on managements current view and estimates of future economic circumstances, industry conditions, company performance, and financial results. The words anticipates, believes, estimates, expects, plans and similar expressions, as they relate to the company, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Statements regarding the declaration or payment of dividends, the implementation of principal operating and financing strategies and capital expenditure plans, the direction of future operations, and the factors or trends affecting financial condition, liquidity, or results of operations are examples of forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the current views of management and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. There is no guarantee that the expected events, trends, or results will actually occur. The statements are based on many assumptions and factors, including general economic and market conditions, industry conditions, and operating factors. Any changes in such assumptions or factors could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. In accordance with Section 806 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and Article 42 of the Ley del Mercado de Valores, GAP has implemented a whistleblower program, which allows complainants to anonymously and confidentially report suspected activities that involve criminal conduct or violations. The telephone number in Mexico, facilitated by a third party responsible for collecting these complaints, is 01 800 563 00 47. The website is www.lineadedenuncia.com/gap. GAPs Audit Committee will be notified of all complaints for immediate investigation. WINNEMUCCA, Sept. 27, 2023 - Paramount Gold Nevada Corp. (NYSE American: PZG) ("Paramount" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that its Annual General Meeting ("AGM" or the "meeting") of the stockholders will be held on December 12, 2023 at 11:00 AM eastern standard time. The meeting will be held virtually over the Internet. Proxy materials will be available on or about October 30th, the mail date, at www.edocumentview.com/PZG and on the Company's website. The Board of Directors has fixed the close of business on Monday, October 16, 2023 as the record date for the determination of the stockholders entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the AGM. The Company also advised that it filed its annual audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023 on Form 10-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on September 26, 2023. The audit report of the Company's independent registered accounting firm included a going concern qualification. Release of this information is required by Section 610(b) of the NYSE American Company Guide. It does not represent any change or amendment to any of the Company's filings for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023. To stay informed of future press releases, subscribe to our E-Alerts Program and to learn more about our projects visit the projects section of our website. About Paramount Gold Nevada Corp. Paramount Gold Nevada Corp. is a U.S. based precious metals exploration and development company. Paramount's strategy is to create shareholder value through exploring and developing its mineral properties and to realize this value for its shareholders in three ways: by selling its assets to established producers; entering joint ventures with producers for construction and operation; or constructing and operating mines for its own account. Paramount holds a 100% interest in four gold projects: Grassy Mountain; Frost; Sleeper and Bald Peak. The Grassy Mountain Gold Project consists of approximately 8,200 acres located on private and BLM land in Malheur County, Oregon. The Grassy Mountain Gold Project contains a gold-silver deposit (100% located on private land) for which results of a positive Feasibility Study have been released and key permitting milestones accomplished. Frost is comprised of 84 unpatented lode claims covering approximately 1,730 acres located 12 miles southwest of the Company's proposed high-grade, underground Grassy Mountain gold mine in Malheur County, Oregon ("Grassy"). The Sleeper Gold Project is located in Northern Nevada, the world's premier mining jurisdiction. The Sleeper Gold Project, which includes the former producing Sleeper mine, totals 2,474 unpatented mining claims (approximately 44,917 acres). The drill ready, Bald Peak Project in Nevada, consists of approximately 2,260 acres. Paramount Gold Nevada Corp. Christos Theodossiou, Director of Corporate Communications 844-488-2233 Twitter: @ParamountNV TSX. V: COCO VANCOUVER, Sept. 27, 2023 - Coast Copper Corp. ("Coast Copper" or the "Company"); (TSXV: COCO) is pleased to announce that it has completed summer exploration programs on both its 100% owned Scottie West property in British Columbia's ("BC") Golden Triangle district and its optioned Empire Mine property located on northern Vancouver Island. Coast Copper has now satisfied its third-year anniversary commitments regarding the option agreement to acquire the Empire Mine property ("Empire Option Agreement"). Scottie West Property Program In September 2023, Coast Copper completed a work program on its Scottie West property located approximately 35 kilometers northwest of Stewart, BC and immediately west of Scottie Resources Corp.'s Scottie Gold Mine project. The notable glacial retreat, even since 2020, has provided new bedrock exposure allowing for mapping and sample collection in previously inaccessible areas. With being able to see new terrain, the geological team was able to recognize features on a regional scale. In total 130 rock samples were collected. Adam Travis, Coast Copper CEO comments: "We were very grateful that Jeff Kyba, one of our technical advisors who has extensive experience in the Golden Triangle, was able to join us at the Scottie West property before winter sets in. During a short window of time, we were able to identify prospective opportunities for new gold discoveries associated with several regional scale structures and related veining in areas of new rock exposure due to the receding glaciers." Empire Mine Property Program Additionally, in September 2023, the Coast Copper technical team followed up several geophysical and gold in soil anomalies and collected 76 soil samples and 25 rock samples in the B3 Discovery area (see news release August 21, 2023). Coast Copper continues to build on its previous work and develop a more comprehensive understanding of the mineralization at Empire. Once the Company has received the results from both programs and completed its quality assurance/quality control procedures, it will release assay results. Empire Mine Property Option Commitments Coast Copper has recently completed its third-year anniversary commitments with respect to the Empire Option Agreement (see news release dated September 24, 2020). These commitments included: A cash payment of $200,000 to Mirva Properties Ltd. ("Mirva") The issuance of 800,000 common shares of the Company to Mirva; and Incurring a minimum of $600,000 of exploration expenditures on the Empire Mine property. Pursuant to the terms of the Empire Option Agreement, the Company can acquire a 100% interest in the Empire Mine property from Mirva by making aggregate cash payments of $1,250,000, issuing 3,000,000 common shares of the Company and undertaking work commitments totaling $2,000,000 over a 5-year period. Mirva will retain a 2% net smelter return ("NSR") royalty on the Empire Mine property of which 1% may be purchased for $1,000,000 at any time up to 120 days after commencement of commercial production. The Empire Option Agreement was structured such that this NSR royalty plus all other NSR royalties which may currently be payable on the Empire Mine property may not exceed in aggregate 2.5% before buydowns. To earn a 100% interest in the Quatsino Crown Grants, the Company must pay Mirva the equivalent of $500,000 with either a cash payment or equivalent value in common shares of the Company, at the Company's election, on or before September 22, 2025. The Company has the option to extend the Quatsino Crown Grants payment date to September 22, 2026 for an additional payment of $35,000, to September 22, 2027 for a further additional payment of $55,000 and to September 22, 2028 for a further additional payment of $75,000. To date Coast Copper has incurred more than $2,000,000 in cumulative exploration expenditures on the Empire Mine property, thus satisfying the entire exploration expenditure requirements pursuant to the Empire Option Agreement. Adam Travis further comments: "I'm very pleased with our progress on the Empire Mine property, including our most recent discovery of the B3 showing and our high-grade gold-copper mineral resource estimate (see news release May 23, 2023). We were able to get out on the property in late September and continue to explore the undervalued areas. We now have only one more payment to make in order to earn a 100% interest in the mineral claims that comprise the Empire Mine property. We are very encouraged by our exploration at Empire and look forward to the assay results that may expand the recently discovered B3 copper-gold showing." About Coast Copper Corp. Coast Copper's exploration focus is the optioned Empire Mine property, located on northern Vancouver Island, BC, which covers three historical open pit mines and two past-producing underground mines that yielded iron, copper, gold and silver. Coast Copper's other properties include its 100% owned Knob Hill NW property located on northern Vancouver Island, its Home Brew property in central BC, and its Scottie West property located in the "Golden Triangle" of northern BC. Coast Copper's management team continues to review precious and base metals opportunities in western North America. On Behalf of the Board of Directors: "Adam Travis" Adam Travis, Chief Executive Officer and Director Cautionary Notes Related to this News Release 1. Adjacent Properties: This news release may contain information about adjacent properties on which Coast Copper Corp. has no right to explore or mine. Investors are cautioned that mineral deposits on adjacent properties are no indicative of mineral deposits on the Company's properties. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION Certain information contained or incorporated by reference in this press release, including any information regarding the proposed Transaction, private placement, board, and management changes, as to our strategy, projects, plans or future financial or operating performance, constitutes "forward-looking statements." All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based on a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by Coast Copper, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, geological, and competitive uncertainties, and contingencies. Although Coast Copper believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Such factors include but are not limited to fluctuations in market prices, exploration and exploitation successes, continued availability of capital and financing, changes in national and local government legislation, taxation, controls, regulations, expropriation, or nationalization of property and general political, economic, market or business conditions. Many of these uncertainties and contingencies can affect our actual results and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, us. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release, or incorporated by reference, are qualified by these cautionary statements. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements. SOURCE Coast Copper Corp. TORONTO, September 27, 2023 - Pelangio Exploration Inc. (TSXV:PX)(OTC PINK:PGXPF) ("Pelangio" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed the first tranche of a non-brokered private placement of up to $500,000 announced on September 11, 2023 (the "Private Placement"). The first tranche raised gross proceeds of $209,100 from the issuance of 6,970,000 units (the "Units") at a price of $0.03 per Unit. Each Unit consists of one common share of the Company (a "Common Share") and one Common Share purchase warrant ("Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one Common Share at a price of $0.05 until September 27, 2028. The Company paid finder's fees to Leede Jones Gable Inc. and GloRes Securities Inc. totaling $7,200 in cash and it issued 240,000 broker warrants ("Broker Warrant") on gross proceeds raised by eligible arm's length parties. Each Broker Warrant is exercisable to acquire one common share of the Company at a price of $0.05 per warrant on the same terms noted above. All finder's fees are subject to compliance with applicable securities legislation and TSX Venture Exchange policies. All securities issued in this closing of the Private Placement are subject to statutory four month hold periods expiring on January 28, 2024. The Private Placement remains subject to obtaining final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. Certain insiders of the Company participated in the Offering for an aggregate total of $113,100 in Private Placement. The participation by such insiders constituted a "related party transaction" as such term is defined by Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company was exempt from the MI 61 101 valuation and minority approval requirements for related party transactions in connection with the Offering under sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 as neither the fair market value (as determined under MI 61-101) of the subject matter of, nor the fair market value of the consideration for, the transaction, insofar as it involves the Related Parties, exceeds 25% of the Company's market capitalization (as determined under MI 61-101). The securities offered have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdictions in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Any offering made will be pursuant to available prospectus exemptions and restricted to persons to whom the securities may be sold in accordance with the laws of such jurisdictions, and by persons permitted to sell the securities in accordance with the laws of such jurisdictions. Change of Transfer Agent In other news, Pelangio announces the appointment of Odyssey Trust Company as the Company's registrar and transfer agent, effective immediately. Shareholders do not need to take any action with respect to the change in registrar and transfer agent services. All inquiries and correspondence relating to the shareholder records, transfer of shares, lost certificates or change of address should now be directed to Odyssey Trust Company rather than Computershare Trust Company of Canada, which has resigned at the Company's request. About Pelangio Pelangio acquires and explores world-class land packages on strategic gold belts in Ghana, West Africa and Canada. In Ghana, the Company is exploring its two 100% owned, camp-sized properties: the 100 km2 Manfo property, the site of seven near-surface gold discoveries, and the 284 km2 Obuasi property, located four km on strike and adjacent to AngloGold Ashanti's prolific high-grade Obuasi Mine, as well as its Dankran property located adjacent to its Obuasi property. In Canada, the Company is currently focused in Ontario at its newly acquired gold, silver, zinc polymetallic Kenogaming project, located 63 km southwest of Timmins, its Dome West property, situated some 800 meters from the Dome Mine in Timmins; and at its Gowan polymetallic project, located 16 km east of the Kidd Creek Mine. See www.pelangio.com for further detail on all Pelangio's properties. For additional information, please visit our website at www.pelangio.com, or contact: Ingrid Hibbard, President and CEO Tel: 905-336-3828 / Toll-free: 1-877-746-1632 / Email: info@pelangio.com Forward Looking Statements Certain statements herein may contain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements or information appear in a number of places and can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate" or "believes" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements and information include statements regarding the Offering generally, the proceeds that may be raised in connection with the Offering, the proposed use of proceeds and the Company's exploration plans. With respect to forward-looking statements and information contained herein, we have made numerous assumptions, including assumptions about our ability to close additional tranches of the Offering in a timely manner, if at all, and the state of the equity markets. Such forward-looking statements and information are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statement or information. Such risks include the ability of the Company to meet the conditions of closing, our ability to conduct our exploration programs as planned, changes in equity markets, share price volatility, volatility of global and local economic climate, gold price volatility, political developments in Ghana, increases in costs, exchange rate fluctuations, speculative nature of gold exploration and other risks involved in the gold exploration industry. See the Company's annual and quarterly financial statements and management's discussion and analysis for additional information on risks and uncertainties relating to the forward-looking statement and information. There can be no assurance that a forward-looking statement or information referenced herein will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Also, many of the factors are beyond the control of the Company. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. We undertake no obligation to reissue or update any forward-looking statements or information except as required by law. All forward-looking statements and information herein are qualified by this cautionary statement. 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: Pelangio Exploration Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/788134/pelangio-closes-first-tranche-of-non-brokered-private-placement-financing-and-announces-change-of-transfer-agent BRISBANE, Sept. 27, 2023 - Allkem Ltd. (ASX: AKE, "Allkem" or the "Company") provides an update in relation to the proposed merger of equals between Allkem and Livent Corporation ("Livent") announced to ASX on 10 May 2023 ("Transaction"). Transaction update Allkem is pleased to provide the following update on the progress of the Transaction: Further to Allkem's announcement on 24 July 2023, Allkem Livent plc 1 ("New TopCo") has today filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") Amendment No. 1 and Amendment No. 2 to the preliminary registration statement on Form S-4 that contains a proxy statement/prospectus (together the "Revised Preliminary Form S-4") ("New TopCo") has today filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") Amendment No. 1 and Amendment No. 2 to the preliminary registration statement on Form S-4 that contains a proxy statement/prospectus (together the "Revised Preliminary Form S-4") All competition and foreign investment approvals are expected to be received prior to the proposed closing of the Transaction Subject to receipt of all necessary regulatory, shareholder and Australian Court approvals, and the satisfaction or waiver of other closing conditions, Allkem and Livent are targeting completion of the Transaction around the end of CY2023 Allkem expects to dispatch a notice of meeting and explanatory statement ("Scheme Booklet") to shareholders in November 2023. The Scheme Booklet will contain information about the Transaction, including the basis for the Allkem Board's recommendation, as well as the Independent Expert's Report. Allkem Shareholders are encouraged to consider the Scheme Booklet in full, once it is available, and to have regard to the disclosures included in the Scheme Booklet when making any decision to vote for or against the scheme proposal. Allkem will continue to update shareholders about any material developments in relation to the Transaction. No reliance on Revised Preliminary Form S-4 by Allkem Shareholders The Revised Preliminary Form S-4 should not be relied on by Allkem shareholders in deciding whether to vote for or against the Scheme (or by any other person in deciding to make an investment decision with respect to Allkem securities). Allkem refers to the statements concerning non-reliance on the Form S-4 in its announcement dated 24 July 2023 in relation to the initial filing of the Preliminary Form S-4, which apply equally to the Revised Preliminary Form S-4. In addition, the Revised Preliminary Form S-4 includes resource and reserve estimates for Allkem's material mining properties presented in accordance with Subpart 1300 of Regulation S-K under the United States Securities Act of 1933 (as amended) (the "Estimates"). Allkem shareholders are cautioned that the Estimates have not been prepared in accordance with, and do not purport to comply with, the ASX Listing Rules or the JORC Code. Allkem shareholders are instead encouraged to have regard to Allkem's recent ASX announcements providing updates on each of its key assets which have been prepared in accordance with the ASX Listing Rules and the JORC Code2. For completeness only, the Revised Preliminary Form S-4 is accessible on the SEC's EDGAR platform in two parts at the following links: https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1977303/000114036123045320/ny20009544x2_s4a.htm https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1977303/000114036123045414/ny20009544x7_s4a.htm This release was authorised by the Board of Directors of Allkem Ltd.. Allkem Ltd. ABN 31 112 589 910 Level 35, 71 Eagle St Brisbane, QLD 4000 Investor Relations & Media Enquiries Andrew Barber M: +61 418 783 701 E: Andrew.Barber@allkem.co Phoebe Lee P: +61 7 3064 3600 E: Phoebe.Lee@allkem.co Connect info@allkem.co +61 7 3064 3600 www.allkem.co IMPORTANT NOTICES This investor ASX/TSX release (Release) has been prepared by Allkem Ltd. (ACN 112 589 910) (the Company or Allkem). It contains general information about the Company as at the date of this Release. The information in this Release should not be considered to be comprehensive or to comprise all of the material which a shareholder or potential investor in the Company may require in order to determine whether to deal in Shares of Allkem. The information in this Release is of a general nature only and does not purport to be complete. It should be read in conjunction with the Company's periodic and continuous disclosure announcements which are available at allkem.co and with the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) announcements, which are available at www.asx.com.au. This Release does not take into account the financial situation, investment objectives, tax situation or particular needs of any person and nothing contained in this Release constitutes investment, legal, tax, accounting or other advice, nor does it contain all the information which would be required in a disclosure document or prospectus prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (Corporations Act). Readers or recipients of this Release should, before making any decisions in relation to their investment or potential investment in the Company, consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to their own individual investment objectives and financial situation and seek their own professional investment, legal, taxation and accounting advice appropriate to their particular circumstances. This Release does not constitute or form part of any offer, invitation, solicitation or recommendation to acquire, purchase, subscribe for, sell or otherwise dispose of, or issue, any Shares or any other financial product. Further, this Release does not constitute financial product, investment advice (nor tax, accounting or legal advice) or recommendation, nor shall it or any part of it or the fact of its distribution form the basis of, or be relied on in connection with, any contract or investment decision. The distribution of this Release in other jurisdictions outside Australia may also be restricted by law and any restrictions should be observed. Any failure to comply with such restrictions may constitute a violation of applicable securities laws. Past performance information given in this Release is given for illustrative purposes only and should not be relied upon as (and is not) an indication of future performance. Forward Looking Statements Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and beliefs and, by their nature, are subject to a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results, performances and achievements to differ materially from any expected future results, performances or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to, the risk of further changes in government regulations, policies or legislation; the risks associated with the continued implementation of the merger between the Company and Galaxy Resources Ltd., risks that further funding may be required, but unavailable, for the ongoing development of the Company's projects; fluctuations or decreases in commodity prices; uncertainty in the estimation, economic viability, recoverability and processing of mineral resources; risks associated with development of the Company Projects; unexpected capital or operating cost increases; uncertainty of meeting anticipated program milestones at the Company's Projects; risks associated with investment in publicly listed companies, such as the Company; and risks associated with general economic conditions. Subject to any continuing obligation under applicable law or relevant listing rules of the ASX, the Company disclaims any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements in this Release to reflect any change in expectations in relation to any forward-looking statements or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements are based. Nothing in this Release shall under any circumstances (including by reason of this Release remaining available and not being superseded or replaced by any other Release or publication with respect to the subject matter of this Release), create an implication that there has been no change in the affairs of the Company since the date of this Release. Not for release or distribution in the United States This announcement has been prepared for publication in Australia and may not be released to U.S. wire services or distributed in the United States. This announcement does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction, and neither this announcement or anything attached to this announcement shall form the basis of any contract or commitment. Any securities to be issued to Allkem's shareholders described in this announcement have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States except in transactions with registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 or exempt from, or not subject to, the registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 and applicable U.S. state securities laws. ___________________________________________ 1 Allkem Livent plc is the temporary name of the proposed holding company of the merged group, which is not currently controlled by or related to Allkem. 2 See the following ASX releases dated 25 September 2023: "Allkem confirms material growth profile underpinned by 40Mt resource"; "Olaroz Mineral Resource Update, and Stage 1 & 2 Operations Update"; "Cauchari Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve Update and Project Update"; "Sal de Vida Update Delivers Improved Economics, Resource and Reserve"; and "James Bay Lithium Project Update Confirms Strong Project Economics", which are each available to view on www.allkem.co and www.asx.com.au VANCOUVER, Sept. 27, 2023 - TSX VENTURE COMPANIES ORGANTO FOODS INC. ("OGO") BULLETIN TYPE: Consolidation BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023. TSX Venture Tier 2 Company Pursuant to a Directors resolution dated September 13, 2023, the Company has consolidated its capital on a Ten (10) old for One (1) new basis. The name of the Company has not been changed. Effective at the opening September 29, 2023, the common shares of Organto Foods Inc. will commence trading on TSX Venture Exchange on a consolidated basis. The Company is classified as a 'Manufacturing' company. Post - Consolidation Capitalization: unlimited shares with no par value of which 28,562,382 shares are issued and outstanding Escrow nil shares are subject to escrow Transfer Agent: Computershare Investor Services Inc. Trading Symbol: OGO UNCHANGED CUSIP Number: 68621J401 NEW ________________________________________ V TEN CAPITAL CORP. ("VTEN.P") BULLETIN TYPE: Resume Trading BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023 TSX Venture Tier 2 Company Further to the bulletin dated September 25, 2023, effective at market open on Friday, September 29, 2023, shares of the Company will resume trading. The Company completed its public offering of securities on September 27, 2023. The gross proceeds received by the Company for the public offering was $200,000 (2,000,000 common shares at $0.10 per share). ________________________________________ NEX COMPANY: Encanto Potash Corp. ("EPO.H") BULLETIN TYPE: Consolidation BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023April 11, 2012 NEX Company Pursuant to a resolution passed by the directors on August 14, 2023, the Company has consolidated its capital on a five (5) old for one (1) new basis. The name and symbol of the Company has not been changed. Effective at the opening September 29, 2023, the common shares of Encanto Potash Corp. will commence trading on TSX Venture Exchange on a consolidated basis. The Company is classified as a 'Mining' company. Post - Consolidation Capitalization: Unlimited shares with no par value of which 18,018,379 shares are issued and outstanding Escrow: NIL Transfer Agent: Endeavor Trust Corporation Trading Symbol: EPO.H (UNCHANGED) CUSIP Number: 29251N401 (new) ________________________________________ 23/09/27 - TSX Venture Exchange Bulletins American Eagle Gold Corp. ("AE") BULLETIN TYPE: Private Placement Non-Brokered BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023 TSX Venture Tier 2 Company TSX Venture Exchange has accepted for filing documentation with respect to a Non-Brokered Private Placement announced on August 17, 2023: Number of Shares: 5,940,000 Charity Flow-Through Shares ("Charity FT Share"). Each Charity FT Share consists of one (1) common share ("Common Share"). Purchase Price: $0.4503 per Charity FT Share Number of Placees: 1 placees Insider / Pro Group Participation: Placees # of Placee (s) Aggregate # of Shares Aggregate Existing Insider Involvement: 1 5,940,000 Finder's Fee: Nil The Company issued a news release on September 7, 2023 confirming closing of the private placement. ________________________________________ Argentina Lithium & Energy Corp. ("LIT") BULLETIN TYPE: Resume Trading BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023 TSX Venture Tier 2 Company Effective at 11:15 a.m. PST, September 27, 2023, shares of the Company resumed trading, an announcement having been made. ________________________________________ BIG TREE CARBON INC. ("BIGT") BULLETIN TYPE: Halt BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023 TSX Venture Tier 2 Company Effective at 10:04 a.m. PST, September 27, 2023, trading in the shares of the Company was halted, pending news; this regulatory halt is imposed by Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada, the Market Regulator of the Exchange pursuant to the provisions of Section 10.9(1) of the Universal Market Integrity Rules. ________________________________________ BIG TREE CARBON INC. ("BIGT") BULLETIN TYPE: Resume Trading BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023 TSX Venture Tier 2 Company Effective at 11:15 a.m. PST, September 27, 2023, shares of the Company resumed trading, an announcement having been made. ________________________________________ BLUE SKY GLOBAL ENERGY CORP. ("BGE") BULLETIN TYPE: Resume Trading BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023 TSX Venture Tier 2 Company Effective at 11:45 a.m. PST, September 27, 2023, shares of the Company resumed trading, an announcement having been made. ________________________________________ CASA MINERALS INC. ("CASA") BULLETIN TYPE: Warrant Term Extension BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023 TSX Venture Tier 2 Company TSX Venture Exchange has consented to the extension in the expiry date of the following warrants: Private Placement: # of Warrants: 1,014,200 Previously Amended Expiry Date of Warrants: October 6, 2023 New Expiry Date of Warrants: February 20, 2024 Exercise Price of Warrants: $0.10 (Unchanged, but previously adjusted on July 28, 2023). These warrants were issued pursuant to a private placement of 1,014,200 shares with 1,014,200 share purchase warrants attached, which was accepted for filing by the Exchange effective September 2, 2021. ________________________________________ LIBERO COPPER & GOLD CORPORATION ("LBC") BULLETIN TYPE: Private Placement-Non-Brokered BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023 TSX Venture Tier 2 Company TSX Venture Exchange has accepted for filing documentation with respect to a Non-Brokered Private Placement announced on July 17, 2023: Number of Shares: 9,130,000 Units Purchase Price: $0.05 per Unit Warrant: 9,130,000 share purchase warrants to purchase 9,130,000 shares Warrant Purchase Price: $0.075 for 3 years from the date of issuance, subject to accelerated expiry. Number of Placee: 16 Placees Insider / Pro Group Participation: Placees # of Placee (s) Aggregate # of Shares Aggregate Existing Insider Involvement: Aggregate Pro Group Involvement 2 N/A 850,000 N/A Aggregate Cash Amount Aggregate # of Shares Aggregate # of Warrants Finder's Fee: 20,190 N/a 403,800 Finder's Warrants Terms: Each warrant entitles the holder to purchase one common share at the price of $ 0.075 for a period of 36 months from the date of issuance. Pursuant to Corporate Finance Policy 4.1, Section 1.9(e), the Company issued a news release on August 17, 2023, announcing the closing of the private placement. ________________________________________ MAS GOLD CORP ("MAS") BULLETIN TYPE: Rights Offering-Shares BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023 TSX Venture Tier 2 Company Further to the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") bulletin dated June 27, 2023, and the expiry of the Company's Rights Offering on September 05, 2023, the Exchange has accepted for filing the Rights Offering pursuant to which an aggregate of 179,680,674 common shares at a price of $0.01 per common share was issued. For further information, please refer to the Company's news release dated September 12, 2023. ________________________________________ NEO Battery Materials Ltd. ("NBM") BULLETIN TYPE: Halt BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023 TSX Venture Tier 2 Company Effective at 1:00 p.m. PST, September 26, 2023, trading in the shares of the Company was halted, pending news; this regulatory halt is imposed by Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada, the Market Regulator of the Exchange pursuant to the provisions of Section 10.9(1) of the Universal Market Integrity Rules. ________________________________________ PLANTIFY FOODS INC. ("PTFY") BULLETIN TYPE: Rights Offering-Shares BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023 TSX Venture Tier 2 Company Further to the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") bulletin dated August 17, 2023, and the expiry of the Company's Rights Offering on September 15, 2023, the Exchange has accepted for filing the Rights Offering pursuant to which an aggregate of 183,555,707 common shares at a price of $0.01 per common share was issued. For further information, please refer to the Company's news release dated September 18, 2023. ________________________________________ PROAM EXPLORATIONS CORPORATION ('PMX') BULLETIN TYPE: Shares for Debt BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023 TSX Venture Tier 2 Company TSX Venture Exchange has accepted for filing the Company's proposal to issue 250,000 shares to settle outstanding debt for $12,500 Number of Creditors: 1 Creditor Non-Arm's Length Party / Pro Group Participation: Creditors # of Creditors Amount Owing Deemed Price per Share Aggregate # of S hares Aggregate Non-Arm's Length Party Involvement: N/A N/A N/A N/A Aggregate Pro Group Involvement: N/A N/A N/A N/A The Company shall issue a news release when the shares are issued and the debt extinguished. ________________________________________ RADIUS GOLD INC. ("RDU") BULLETIN TYPE: Shares for Debt BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023 TSX Venture Tier 1 Company TSX Venture Exchange has accepted for filing the Company's proposal to issue 500,000 shares to settle outstanding debt for $120,000. Number of Creditors: 1 Creditor Non-Arm's Length Party / Pro Group Participation: Creditors # of Creditors Amount Owing Deemed Price per Share Aggregate # of Shares Aggregate Non-Arm's Length Party Involvement: 1 $120,000 $0.24 500,000 Aggregate Pro Group Involvement: N/A N/A N/A N/A The Company shall issue a news release when the shares are issued and the debt extinguished. ________________________________________ Solis Minerals Ltd. ("SLMN") BULLETIN TYPE: Private Placement-Non-Brokered BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023 TSX Venture Tier 2 Company TSX Venture Exchange has accepted for filing documentation with respect to a Non-Brokered Private Placement announced on June 8, 2023: Number of Shares: 15,067,273 shares Purchase Price: CAD$0.49 (AUD$0.55) per share Warrants: N/A Number of Placees: 106 placees Insider / Pro Group Participation: Placees # of Placee (s) Aggregate # of Shares Aggregate Existing Insider Involvement: 5 5,818,182 Aggregate Pro Group Involvement: N/A N/A Aggregate Cash Amount Aggregate # of Shares Aggregate # of Warrants Finder's Fee: CAD$243,218.18 (AUD$272,999.94) N/A N/A The Company issued news releases on June 19, 2023, and August 21, 2023, confirming the closing of the private placement. ________________________________________ V TEN CAPITAL CORP. ("VTEN.P") BULLETIN TYPE: Halt BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023 TSX Venture Tier 2 Company Effective at 5:00 a.m. PST, September 27, 2023, trading in the shares of the Company was halted, pending closing; this regulatory halt is imposed by Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada, the Market Regulator of the Exchange pursuant to the provisions of Section 10.9(1) of the Universal Market Integrity Rules. ________________________________________ Volt Lithium Corp. ("VLT") BULLETIN TYPE: Prospectus - Unit Offering BULLETIN DATE: September 27, 2023 TSX Venture Tier 2 Company Further to the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") bulletin dated September 26, 2023, the Exchange has been notified that Canaccord Genuity Corp. and Paradigm Capital Inc. (the "Agents") have exercised 411,136 HD Units from the Over-Allotment Option for a gross proceed of $90,449.92. With the over-allotment exercise, gross proceeds from the Short Form Base Shelf Prospectus (the "Prospectus") dated June 20, 2023, were $6,083,899.72. Please see below for the summary of the Prospectus. Prospectus-Units Brokered Offering: Offering: 14,956,590 non-flow through Units ("HD Units"). Each HD Unit consists of one (1) non-flow through common share of the Company and one-half (0.5) non-flow through common share purchase warrant (each whole common share purchase warrant, a "HD Warrant") 11,262,500 flow-through Units ("FT Units"). Each FT Unit consists of one (1) flow through common share of the Company and one-half (0.5) flow-through common share purchase warrant (each whole common share purchase warrant, a "FT Warrant"). Offering Price: $0.22 per HD Unit $0.24 per FT Unit Warrant Exercise Price/Term: Each HD Warrant is exercisable at an exercise price of $0.33 for a period of two (2) years from the date of issuance Each FT Warrant is exercisable at an exercise price of $0.33 for a period of two (2) years from the date of issuance Agent(s): Canaccord Genuity Corp. and Paradigm Capital Inc. Agent(s) Fees: Aggregate cash commission of $323,227.65 and 1,409,308 warrants, with each warrant entitling the Agents to acquire an additional HD unit at an exercise price of $0.22 until August 4, 2025. Over-Allotment Option: The Agents exercised a total of 411,136 HD Units from the Over-Allotment, which expired on September 3, 2023. The underlying Warrants are governed by the terms and conditions of the Warrant Indenture dated August 4, 2023 and were issued pursuant to the Company's Prospectus Supplement dated July 27, 2023. For further details, please refer to the Company's Prospectus Supplement filed on SEDAR+ on July 27, 2023 and the Company's news releases dated July 25, 2023, July 28, 2023 and August 4, 2022. _________________________________ SOURCE TSX Venture Exchange Aerial view of Cabril dam reservoir in Pedrogao Grande district (REUTERS) A 27-year-old British man has been remanded in custody after being arrested following the fatal stabbing of a compatriot near a remote commune in Portugal. Engineer Josh Menkens was told he was being sent to prison pending an ongoing investigation after a second day of questioning at a court in Leiria, an hours drive south-west of the woodland spot where a 35-year-old British mans body was found on Sunday. It subsequently emerged Mr Menkens, who has not been officially named by police, was one of the organisers of a music festival called the Mad Hatters Tea Party which had been taking place at the commune near the woodland where the stabbing occurred. The off grid living community in Figueiro dos Vinhos near the central Portuguese town of Pedregao Grande, called Libelinha Venture, is owned by UK public school-educated Xavier Hancock and his Spanish partner Arantxa Atauri. There is no suggestion the couple were in any way involved in the stabbing in the early hours of Sunday morning. Mr Hancock, who attended the 15,000-a-year St Edwards School in Oxford, said earlier this week: As this is an active investigation, I will only answer questions from the authorities who we are cooperating with fully. Once the official evidence has been released, I would consider sharing the story. The court hearing to decide whether Mr Menkens should be remanded in custody or released on bail took place behind closed doors, as is normal in Portugal where only trials are held in public. It was not immediately clear if had cooperated fully with the ongoing investigation by answering questions from the judge and state prosecutor in the courtroom as well as his defence lawyer. A promo for the Mad Hatters Tea Party, which started on September 20 and was due to run until September 24, described it as a gathering filled with great music and fantastic souls and urged those planning to attend: Show love, kindness, and respect to ourselves, each other, and the land. Story continues Listen to your bodys limits and take care of your physical and mental well-being. Watch out for one another, speak up if something feels off, and maintain a ZERO TOLERANCE policy towards bias, prejudice, abuse, or assault. In addition to a line-up which included several DJs, the event also featured circus performers, wellness workshops and a Hatters Secret Quest. Tickets cost 50 euros (43) and included four nights of camping on site, although guests were given the offer of upgrade glamping options costing up to 120. The alarm was raised around 6.30am on Sunday and the detainee reportedly admitted stabbing his alleged victim before taking police to the remote woodland spot where his body was. The knife investigators believe was used to kill him was found alongside the corpse, left in a small clearing in woodland close to the village of Figueiro dos Vinhos. Footage published locally showed police lifting the dead mans body on a stretcher after it was covered with a sheet and putting it into the back of a nearby van. A waiting Red Cross ambulance took it to the university city of Coimbra after officers reached the nearest tarmacked road. A post-mortem is thought to have taken place on Monday in Coimbra, although the results have not been made public. TORONTO, Sept. 28, 2023 - Lithium Ionic Corp. (TSXV: LTH; OTCQX: LTHCF; FSE: H3N) ("Lithium Ionic" or the "Company"), an exploration and development-stage mining company advancing its hard rock lithium projects in Minas Gerais, Brazil, reports that its common shares were approved for trading in the United States on the OTCQX Best Market, the top tier of the OTC Markets, effective September 27, 2023. The Company's common shares previously traded on the OTCQB Venture Market and will continue to trade under the US trading symbol "LTHCF." Blake Hylands, P.Geo., Chief Executive Officer of Lithium Ionic, commented, "The graduation to the OTCQX platform marks an important step for Lithium Ionic, which will increase our exposure to a broader US investor audience and make it easier for this large community to invest in our Company as we rapidly advance our hard rock lithium projects towards production in Brazil." The OTCQX Market is intended for established, investor-focused U.S. and international companies. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet prescribed financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance guidelines, and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws. Trading on the OTCQX Market marks an important milestone for companies, enabling them to demonstrate their qualifications and build visibility among U.S. investors. The companies found on the OTCQX are distinguished by the integrity of their operations and diligence with which they convey their qualifications. Investors can find current financial disclosure and trading status Real-Time Level 2 quotes for Lithium Ionic on www.otcmarkets.com. About Lithium Ionic Corp. Lithium Ionic is a Canadian mining company exploring and developing its lithium properties in Brazil. Its flagship Itinga and Salinas projects cover 14,182 hectares in the northeastern part of Minas Gerais state, a mining-friendly jurisdiction that is quickly emerging as a world-class hard-rock lithium district. The Itinga Project is situated in the same region as CBL's Cachoeira lithium mine, which has produced lithium for +30 years, as well as Sigma Lithium Corp.'s Grota do Cirilo project, which hosts the largest hard-rock lithium deposit in the Americas. Investor and Media Inquiries: +1 647.316.2500 info@lithiumionic.com Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains statements that constitute "forward-statements." Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements, or developments to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes, in light of the experience of its officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. When used in this press release, the words "estimate", "project", "belief", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan", "predict", "may" or "should" and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. The forward-looking statements and information in this press release include information relating to the prospectivity and development of the Company's mineral properties, the listing and trading of the Company's common shares on the OTCQX and the Company's future plans. Such statements and information reflect the current view of the Company. Risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the expectations of the Company as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Information and links in this press release relating to other mineral resource companies are from their sources believed to be reliable, but that have not been independently verified by the Company. 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 press release. VANCOUVER, September 28, 2023 - Rockland Resources Ltd. (the "Company" or "Rockland") (CSE:RKL) is pleased to welcome volcanologist Dr. M. Bursik to the advisory board. Dr. Bursik has worked extensively on the Company's Utah projects where his knowledge and expertise in volcanology are particularly beneficial. Dr. Bursik is professor emeritus in the Department of Geological Sciences at the University at Buffalo (UB), SUNY. He received his BA (summa cum laude) in geology from Fresno State University, his MS in geophysics and his PhD in geology from Caltech in volcanic and tectonic geology. After an NSF-NATO post-doctoral position at the University of Cambridge and a National Research Council post-doc at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), he continued to work on volcanoes and tectonics at UB. Dr. Bursik has authored over 120 refereed journal articles, book chapters, etc., and is a Life Member of the scholarly society for the study of volcanoes, the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior. Mike England, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, states: "Marcus has worked with our group of companies for several years and Rockland is delighted that he has joined our advisory board. His vast expertise and knowledge in volcanic geology will assist the planning and completion of the Company's first drill program on it's promising lithium-beryllium Lithium Butte property." Rockland continues to prepare for the first "modern" drill program targeting lithium and beryllium mineralization on its Lithium Butte property. The Lithium Butte property is located in Juab County, approximately 185 kilometres southwest of Salt Lake City, Utah, and hosts claystone volcanic tuff breccia units interpreted to be prospective for lithium ("Li"), beryllium ("Be"), and rare earth mineralization. Company sampling returned up to 4,080 parts per million ("ppm") Li, and up to 4,810 ppm Be, from grab samples, and channel sampling returned 25.2 metres at 1,388 ppm Li, including 8.0 metres at 2,155 ppm Li and 0.7 metres at 3,540 ppm Li (see RKL press releases, August 4, 2022, and August 23, 2022). Multiple prospective targets have been indicated on the Lithium Butte property and the proposed RC drill program is designed to test for both lithium and beryllium mineralization. Beryllium is a high-value, essential, light metal with wide applications in the aerospace, computer, telecommunications, electronics, medical, satellite and defence sectors. Beryllium on the Lithium Butte property occurs as the beryllium mineral bertrandite which is also mined from the Spor Mountain open-pit operations located 30 kilometres east of the property, by Materion Corp. ("Materion"). The Spor Mountain operations are the largest source of beryllium in the United States, accounting for approximately 63% of the world's annual production in 2020. Juab County is an active exploration and mining area, with beryllium produced by Materion from the Spor Mountain mine, gold exploration and production at the Tintic Mine by Osisko Development Corp., and drilling and exploration at the Tintic project by Ivanhoe Electric. (Utah Geological Survey Circular 134, 37 p., https://doi.org/10.34191/C-134.) Program QA/QC - Samples taken to date were transported in sealed bags by the Company personnel and shipped to Activation Laboratories ("Actlabs") in Ancaster, Ontario. Actlabs is an independent ISO/IEC 17025 certified laboratory. Li analysis was performed using sodium peroxide fusion and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). As part of the QA/QC program Rockland geologists included blanks and certified reference materials (CRM) with the soil samples. No significant deviations from expected grades with blanks or CRMs were noted. Lindsay Bottomer, P.Geo., a Qualified Person as defined in NI 43-101, is responsible for reviewing and approving the geological contents of this news release. About Rockland Resources Ltd. Rockland Resources is engaged in the business of mineral exploration and the acquisition of mineral property assets for the benefit of its shareholders. The Company also now owns 100-per-cent of the Cole Gold Mines property, located in Ball township, Red Lake mining division, Ontario. The Cole Property hosts high-grade gold mineralization in a classic Red Lake-type structurally controlled gold deposit environment. On Behalf of the Board of Directors Michael England, CEO & Director For further information, please contact: Mike England Email: mike@engcom.ca Neither the Canadian Stock Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: This news release contains forward-looking statements, which relate to future events or future performance and reflect management's current expectations and assumptions. Such forward-looking statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Investors are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ materially from those expected. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and by those made in our filings with SEDAR in Canada (available at WWW.SEDAR.COM). SOURCE: Rockland Resources Ltd. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/788188/rockland-resources-welcomes-dr-bursik-to-the-advisory-board Vancouver, September 28, 2023 - Origen Resources Inc. (CSE: ORGN) (FSE: 4VXA) (the "Company" or "Origen") is pleased to announce that geophysical testing has shown that a conductive layer up to 482 metres deep is found beneath a thin layer of travertine at Los Sapitos. The conductive layer rests on a resistive basement with initial indications the salar is a fault tilted basin, consistent with Origen's exploration model. This layer will be targeted by Origen's first-phase drilling scheduled for early 2024. Origen Resources is also pleased to announce it has arranged a private placement (the "Private Placement") of up to 4,500,000 flow-through units at $0.10 per unit with each unit consisting of one flow-through share and one-half of one common share purchase warrant. Each whole warrant is exercisable into one common share at a price of $0.15 cents per share for a period of 18 months from the closing date. Figure - A). Map showing the location of Vertical Electrical Sounding stations on Los Sapitos property in June. B). Cross section showing the results (resistivity), and interpretation of the data collected from the survey. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7117/182191_origenfigureab.jpg The levels of conductivity recorded by vertical electrical sounding on the property are consistent with those from a brine-hosting aquifer as predicted by Origen's exploration model. Lithium-rich brines are highly conductive, and these measurements are an important diagnostic tool. Gary Schellenberg stated, "The latest results indicate that there is sufficient depth for a significant aquifer at Los Sapitos. The Los Sapitos basin continues to surpass our expectations." Interpreted section through Los Sapitos basin based on results of Vertical Electrical Sounding. Average resistivity across the modeled units is shown in red in Ohm.m All three survey points collected during the Vertical Electrical Sounding survey have identified 4 unique layers: 1. a conductive superficial layer of conductive alluvial sand of around 1-2 metres thick, 2. A resistive layer of up to 7 metres thick of sand and gravel, 3. a distinct conductive layer of between 88 and 469 metres thick 4. A distinct resistive Paleozoic basement of possible granitic lithology. Across the Los Sapitos basin thin layers of alluvial clays, gravels and travertine have covered a significant conductive basin. Sampling from earlier this year has shown that elevated lithium is found below the travertine on the part of the conductive layer that has been exposed. VERTICAL SOUNDING STATION # Lat. Long. From (m) To (m) Resistivity (Ohm.m) Conductivity (mS.m) Layer SEV 1 -28.8045o -69.124472o 0 1.5 2 500.0 Alluvial clays 1.5 13 309 3.2 Gravels and Sandstone 13 113 5 200.0 Conductive Layer 113 - 152 6.6 Paleozoic Basement SEV 2 -28.79753o -69.110389o 0 1.5 63 15.9 Alluvial clays 1.5 13 654 1.5 Gravels and Sandstone 13 482 12 83.3 Conductive Layer 482 - 161 6.2 Paleozoic Basement SEV 5 -28.80061o -69.100889o 0 1 8 125.0 Alluvial clays 1 7 1580 0.6 Gravels and Sandstone 7 95 5 200.0 Conductive Layer 95 - 264 3.8 Paleozoic Basement Table - Results of Vertical Electrical Sounding on Los Sapitos property in June. Methodology Conhidro S.R.L of Catamarca was contracted by Arex Mining on behalf of Origen to complete a geophysical survey over the Los Sapitos salar and basin. In July 2023 Conhidro field teams carried out 3 vertical electrical sounding surveys at locations shown in figure 1 and table 1. The aim of the study was to determine the thickness of the permeable sediments, depth of the hydrogeological basement and the structural conditions of the subsoil. The study was carried out with a CGEG CO Ltd. DUK-2A, auto-compensating multi-electrode resistivity survey system. Stainless steel current electrodes and copper potential electrodes were used in a saturated solution of copper sulfate. 1 mm wide steel/copper power cables 1 metre in length were used. The power source for the survey was a voltage regulator amplifier fed with 220 V, which reaches a maximum value of 850 volts. The survey was carried out by the VES method (vertical electrical sounding), with a tetrapolar array in a Schlumberger arrangement with geometric constant K = .((AM.AN)/MN). The lengths between current electrodes were variable, up to maximum distances of 2000 metres. The separations between the potential electrodes, MN, varied between 1 and 200 metres. The field curve was plotted on bilogarithmic paper where the abscissa corresponds to the values of OA (in metres) and the ordinate to apparent resistivity in Ohm.m (a). Interpretation of the data was completed with computer programs. Flow-Thru Placement As noted above, up to 4,500,000 flow-through units at $0.10 per unit are proposed, with each unit consisting of one flow-through share and one-half of one common share purchase warrant. Each whole warrant is exercisable into one common share at a price of $0.15 cents per share for a period of 18 months from the closing date. Insiders of the Company are expected to participate in the Private Placement. This anticipated participation by insiders in the Private Placement constitutes a related-party transaction as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions. However, the Company considers such participation would be exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 as the fair market value of the flow-through units expected to be subscribed for by the insiders and the consideration for the units paid by such insiders will not exceed 25 per cent of the Company's market capitalization. Gary Schellenberg noted, "These flow-thru funds will make a meaningful impact on advancing our Newfoundland pegmatite exploration this field season, with drilling planned in Argentina on Los Sapitos in February/March, late summer in the southern hemisphere." About Origen's Lithium history The Origen team has been exploring for Lithium since 2002, making major discoveries of both spodumene, and lithium in brines. The recent market-driven phase of lithium discoveries have represented those with the highest grades and most obvious surface expressions. As the lithium technology matures and the demand for lithium grows, exploration will be driven to those places where lithium has not been historically seen. Origen has been applying the experience gained through discovery to create advanced exploration models with the aim of making original green-fields discoveries. Origen began exploration for lithium brines in Argentina with the thesis that the lithium found in the "Lithium Triangle" - an area located on borders of Chile, Argentina and Bolivia that is estimated to host 51% of the world's total lithium - extends south-wards in Argentina along an emerging trend that terminates in Argentina's San Juan Province. In addition, Origen realized that while easily visible lithium discoveries has been the pattern of success in the Lithium Triangle, seeking significant resources with more subtle surface exposure was a viable exploration model. This approach has allowed for the discovery of Maricungas and Tres Quebradas far to the south of the Lithium triangle. Tres Quebradas was sold in 2020 for $782 million CAD, and is about to enter commercial production. Map 1 showing the emerging trend of Lithium discoveries away from the Lithium Triangle, an area that hosts an estimated 51% of world\d total lithium resources. Origen Resources has staked a commanding land along the southern extent along this trend. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7117/182191_73e80f6674cd4b27_005full.jpg Origen previously recognized that the geology of the mining friendly northern San Juan was similar to that of within the lithium belts in the north of the country. Guided by this exploration model Origen was able to stake a district sized package around a mostly-buried salar. Preliminary exploration in 2021 was met with immediate success: surprisingly high grades of lithium in brines at surface in the main salar area of Los Sapitos, with one sample returning 391 mg/L. This discovery was a vindication of the exploration model. Origen believes that the style of mineralization transitions from the mature salars of the lithium triangle with an obvious visible surface expression to a mostly-buried, sediment-rich aquifer similar to those found in the Clayton Valley, Thacker Pass and elsewhere. Origen has since expanded its land holdings with a total of 344 km2 acquired over several prospective basins in northern San Juan Province. About Origen Origen is fully focused on its 100% interest in the Los Sapitos Lithium project in Argentina and its 100% interest in the 33,000 ha Newfoundland Lithium projects, and also a 100% interest in the 26,771 ha LGM and the 3,971 ha Wishbone projects in the mineral rich Golden Triangle of British Columbia, along with a property portfolio of four 100% owned precious and base metal projects in southern British Columbia. John Harrop, P.Geo., a Qualified Person as that term is defined in NI 43-101 has prepared, supervised the preparation or approved the scientific and technical disclosure in the news release. On behalf of Origen, Thomas Hawkins Managing Director For further information, please contact Gary Schellenberg, Chief Executive Officer, at 604-681-0221. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. Certain of the statements made and information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information." In particular references to the private placement and future work programs or expectations on the quality or results of such work programs are subject to risks associated with operations on the property, exploration activity generally, equipment limitations and availability, as well as other risks that we may not be currently aware of. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/182191 CALGARY, Sept. 28, 2023 - Bocana Resources Corp. (TSXV: BOCA) (Frankfurt: VC1) ("Bocana" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the completion of the first two of nine proposed diamond drill holes on the Escala area concession in south-west Bolivia. The Company's inaugural drilling of both NQ and HQ size cores is expected to take another three weeks to complete the proposed 2,000 metre program. Lithologies Observed The two completed holes tested the southern flank of a large, induced polarization chargeability anomaly that is interpolated to be related to a mineralized near surface porphyry system called Cerro Galapagos. Hydrothermal and intrusion breccias hosted within a dacitic porphyry have been observed. Fracture controlled sulphides, mainly pyrite and minor arsenopyrites as well as magnetite, have also been noted. Core Sampling Protocols All drill core samples will be collected under the supervision of Company employees. Drill cores are transported from the drill platform to the camp's logging facility where it will be geotechnically and geologically logged, photographed, and split by diamond saw prior to being sampled. Samples will then be bagged, sealed, and numbered in order to maintain a chain of custody. Company employees will also insert blank, duplicate and a certified standard sample in each batch of twenty samples prior to transportation from the Escala area camp to the ALS Bolivia Ltda. ("ALS") laboratory site in Oruro, Bolivia. ALS will provide Bocana with sample preparation and analysis services at its ISO/IEC 17025 accredited facilities. The ALS unit in Oruro is ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 17025:2005 accredited and ALS has the only laboratory in South America that has a high number of analytical methods accredited by ISO IEC 17025; the ALS laboratory also has the sample preparation stage included in this accreditation. "We are pleased to have to have the first two cores completed. If the drilling continues at this pace, we would estimate completion of this portion of phase I to be within the next three to four weeks," commented Timothy J. Turner, Chief Executive Officer of Bocana. Qualified Person Mr. Lorne Warner, P.Geo., is a "Qualified Person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Warner has approved the scientific and technical information included in this news release for dissemination. About Bocana Resources Corp. Bocana is a mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral properties in South America. Bocana, through its wholly owned subsidiary, Huiracocha International Service SRL, holds a 100% working interest in the mineral properties known as the Escala area concessions located at the Department of Potosi, Sud Lipez Province, Bolivia as awarded by Comibol. Contact Information For more information on Bocana, visit: https://bocanaresources.com. For more information or interview requests, please contact: Timothy J. Turner - Chief Executive Officer info@bocanaresources.com Forward-Looking Information This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information can be identified by words such as: "intend", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "may", "will", "approximately", "planning", "projected", "anticipate" and similar references to future periods. Although Bocana believes that, in light of the experience of its officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate, the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because Bocana can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Bocana, as the case may be, to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, geopolitical and social uncertainties; the actual results of current exploration activities including Phase 1; results of any sampling and any risks associated with the testing; risks associated with operation in foreign jurisdictions; ability to successfully integrate purchased properties or mining rights awarded; foreign operations risks; and other risks inherent in the mining industry. Although Bocana has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Additional risks include those disclosed in the Information Circular, which are incorporate herein by reference and are available through SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, except as required by law. This news release is not an offer of the securities for sale in the United States. The securities described in this news release have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended) absent registration or an exemption from registration. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any state in which where such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. Absa Bank funds SMEs with GH100m Business Desk Report Business News Sep - 28 - 2023 , 03:49 ABSA Bank has disbursed GH100 million under a new initiative meant to empower and drive the growth of Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana. The initiative, under the banks 10 per cent SME Loan Programme, is in partnership with Mastercard Foundation, and it is a landmark financing programme from the bank to help transform the landscape of SMEs with a lot of focus on women-owned businesses, young entrepreneurs, agribusinesses and fintechs in Ghana. It allows SMEs in scope of the programme to borrow up to GH11 million from Absa Bank at a remarkably low rate of 10 per cent per annum. It also allows them to borrow up to GH1million without collateral as against the average commercial borrowing rates that have soared above 25 per cent making it harder for businesses to thrive and achieve their full potential. In a release issued by the bank, it said Absa Bank Ghana LTD has always been committed to the growth and success of small and medium-sized businesses, recognising its power to transform the economy of the country. It said the support programme was an exciting development that reflected the bank's unwavering commitment to empowering and partnering SMEs as they navigate the challenges of today's marketplace. Initiative The Executive Director - Retail and Business Banking at the bank, Kobla Nyaletey, said, This milestone is a testament to our unwavering dedication to supporting SMEs businesses for growth and sustainability. Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy, and we are committed to providing them with the financial support and resources they need to succeed and thrive. He said SMEs played an essential role in the economic vitality of communities, creating jobs and fostering innovation. In spite of that, however, Mr Nyaletey said accessing the necessary capital to sustain and expand these enterprises can be a significant challenge. He explained that the programme was one of the most compelling stories of hope and possibility in a world that was grappling with uncertainty and volatility. Providing solutions Absa Bank Ghana has been on a journey over the last half a decade to design and offer a bouquet of solutions that truly and fully offer the help that SMEs need to survive and thrive. Its the banks way of empowering our SMEs tomorrow, one story at a time, it said. Spain-Ghana Chamber of Commerce to improve skills of students Business Desk Report Business News Sep - 28 - 2023 , 04:25 THE Spain-Ghana Chamber of Commerce is implementing an initiative that allows students of the University of Ghana (UG) to have industrial experience with member-companies of the chamber. The initiative which was birthed as a result of the Memorandum of Understanding between the chamber and the UG in 2022 seeks to expose students to work experiences, build their skills and also empower them to understanding the dichotomy between academia and industry. At the annual general meeting (AGM) of the chamber in Accra, the Spanish Ambassador to Ghana, Javier Gutierrez, said the initiative was a laudable one which would go a long way to improve the skills of students and ultimately contribute to sustainable development in the country. Mr Gutierrez, who is Honorary President of the chamber, urged other members of the chamber to come on board and participate in the initiative to help build the knowledge base of students. He said continuous partnership between the Spanish Embassy and the chamber was a catalyst for development in the country and expressed the joy about the increased number of membership of the chamber. For his part, the President of the Chamber of Commerce, Joaquin Roura, expressed confidence in member companies to leverage their collective strengths to transform the current economic challenges in the country into opportunities. He reiterated that the chamber would continue to actively promote trade and investment opportunities, facilitate partnerships and provide a platform for knowledge exchange and networking. Vulnerable groups key to achieving economic development Business Desk Report Business News Sep - 28 - 2023 , 03:55 THE Vice-Chancellor of the University of Development Studies (UDS), Prof. Seidu Al-Hasaan, has said no persons, because of their vulnerabilities, should be excluded in the quest to achieve sustainable economic development. He said vulnerable persons such as people living with disabilities, the aged, women and children among others, all form part of the society and was therefore important to mobilise all of them to be part of the development process. We must recognise that our own society, country, is vulnerable because it is exposed to so many risks such as economic crisis, global wars, internal wranglings and conflicts. We must develop very robust systems to withstand such shocks while ensuring that we dont leave anyone behind because of their vulnerabilities, he said during an engagement with some civil society organisations (CSOs) in Tamale in the Northern Region. Speaking on the principles of active citizenship (AC) to achieve sustainable development, he said AC required that citizens get involved in their communities and democracy at all levels. He cited awareness of vulnerabilities, good organisation and innovation as some of the tenets of AC for sustainable development. How best are we organising ourselves as a country in ensuring law and order to ensure that we manage the resources that we have efficiently? Innovation is the only thing that can put us on the path of sustainable development. What I see in an active citizen is patriotism, nation building, protection of state property, discipline, obedience, honesty, reliability and selflessness, he outlined. Tamale launch The engagement formed part of activities to mark the 5th anniversary of STAR-Ghana Foundation, a national centre for promoting active citizenship and local philanthropy for sustainable development. The foundation was set up as part of efforts to find a space and a mechanism that would enable a better coordination of development efforts, and to ask the fundamental questions about the state of affairs. Again, it was to find a space that will help hold the hands of very young organisations and support them to grow to take their places. One of such spaces over the years is the Northern Development Forum, that looked at civil society coordination. The Executive Director of the Foundation, Ibrahim-Tanko Amidu, explained that Northern Ghana epitomised the rationale for setting up the foundation, with majority of the partners and organisations the foundation has worked with are based in Northern Ghana. The second major active citizenship lecture took place in Tamale, which showed the centrality of northern Ghana in the whole set up of the foundation. It was Northern Ghana that informed the need to have a foundation that will nurture civil society, help to promote active citizenship, and help to promote inclusive development, he recalled. Alhaji Amidu said five years was a relatively short time looking at the development challenges facing the country. GTEC must sanitise universities space Daily Graphic Editorials Sep - 27 - 2023 , 12:40 The number of students that enrol in tertiary institutions in every country determines the level of development of the country. The projection of the gross tertiary ratio of Ghana by 2030 is 40 per cent yet the current ratio is around 20 per cent. To make tertiary education accessible to every Ghanaian desirous of it, the government, through the Ministry of Education has embarked on proactive steps to bring it to the doorstep of all. Apart from supporting the establishment of open universities that do not require physical space constraints, currently, university education can be accessed at every corner of the country, particularly with the conversion of the polytechnics into technical universities. Currently, the traditional 10 regions have a technical university each, with satellite campuses of already existing universities in the country established in some district capitals and other towns, while the new regions are getting the needed attention. Additionally, all the 46 public colleges of education now offer degree programmes. Most of the traditional universities, especially the university of Cape Coast (UCC) and the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) organise distant education, particularly for teachers and others desirous to be teachers at various locations across the country. All these steps are laudable in the effort of the country to raise its gross tertiary enrolment ratio to an appreciable level; however, this should not amount to lowering the standard of our tertiary education. It is in the light of this that the Daily Graphic sees the decision by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) to sanitise the tertiary education space as a move in the right direction that deserves the support by all. Recently, the GTEC had the unpleasant duty to warn universities operating in unaccredited environments as well as those running unaccredited programmes to stop or face the wrath of the law. The Daily Graphic finds these developments worrying, especially their implications on the country's educational system. For two consecutive years, the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament (PAC) raised concerns about almost all the public universities running unaccredited programmes. Thankfully, all of them have worked on such abnormalities to the level that the University of Cape Coast (UCC), which was also cited last year, was declared "clean", having worked on all such unaccredited programmes. The Daily Graphic wishes to commend the GTEC for whipping the universities in line and, particularly, UCC for achieving such a feat. We are aware that the GTEC is working behind the scenes to address all such bottlenecks. We therefore expect all the others to follow the shining example of UCC, such that no one goes into a university and comes out only to realise that the programme he or she pursued has not been accredited. We learnt that some students had scholarships in the recent past from foreign universities for their second degree but were denied because those universities cross-checked with the GTEC website and realised that the programmes they pursued were not accredited. This is a very sad situation and should not be allowed to happen to any student again. Universities in the country must act responsibly to ensure that their actions or inaction do not affect any of their students, whether present or past. While we support the GTEC that every potential tertiary student should always check its website to ensure that the programmes they are about to pursue are accredited, we urge the GTEC to ensure that it carries out its responsibilities without fear or favour. GTEC needs to know that it has every backing under the Education Regulatory Bodies Act 2020 and so, nothing should stand in its way to ensure standards. The universities, which should know better, should not be seen to be doing the wrong things. Tertiary education does not come cheap and so the action of the universities should not end up taking huge amounts from students and giving them certificates that are not recognised because either the campus where the students graduated from is unaccredited or the programmes they pursued are unaccredited. The universities should be seen to be doing the right thing and prospective students must be vigilant by ensuring that the programmes they intend to pursue are recognised by the GTEC. Additionally, GTEC should crack the whip to ensure that all the universities are doing the right things. We urge the GTEC to ensure that there is sanity in the university space because certificates from universities in Ghana are recognised highly and standards must not drop. The universities have their integrity to protect, and such acts should not tarnish their hard-earned reputation. We trust that both the GTEC and the universities in the country will do the right thing to maintain the enviable position they occupy in the global listing. The time to act is now! Miramax Reacher star Willa Fitzgerald's new movie Strange Darling has debuted with a 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The horror-thriller sees the actress play a woman who is being hunted down by a serial killer (Smile's Kyle Gallner) in the Oregon Wilderness. Following its premiere at FantasticFest, JT Mollner's movie has been getting very positive reviews, with particular praise going towards its fresh take on the genre and the two central performances. Miramax Related: Reacher season 2 release window confirmed Here's what critics have been saying: "Writer-director JT Mollner flips the script on this tired genre, crafting the cleverest thriller of its kind in a while with a mighty assist from a pair of killer performances by co-leads Willa Fitzgerald and Kyle Gallner. Best experienced with as little foreknowledge as possible, Strange Darling demands a bit of patience, but it also rewards it." "Strange Darling is a quintessential 'WHAT DID I JUST WATCH' but in the BEST way. Its an incredibly made, twisted cat & mouse non liner film that will have you shocked by all the surprises along the way. Kyle Gallner is great & Willa Fitzgerald delivers a world class performance." Miramax "Mollners film could be the next great genre hitthe sort of buzzy thriller best seen knowing as little as possible." "Strange Darling is an exhilarating, twisted thriller that has the look and feel of a 1970s exploitation film, but with an updated social commentary to deliver something new. Mollner is clearly a filmmaker to take notice of. While the script could have been refined just a bit, what Mollner delivers is a story with fascinating characters and plenty of surprises that is as exciting as it is thought-provoking." "In the end, Strange Darling refuses to dig deeper with the lofty questions it poses, but that doesnt erase the good will the first two acts of the film has built up. What we are left with is a grim little thriller whose lofty ambitions prove to be too much for it in the end, but youve got to give it credit for trying." Story continues Strange Darling's cinema release date is yet to be announced. Reacher season 2 will air on Prime Video in December. You Might Also Like Produce good movies and stop complaining movie industry is dead -Juliet Asante to GH film-makers Kofi Duah Showbiz News Sep - 28 - 2023 , 10:28 THE Executive Secretary of the National Film Authority (NFA), Juliet Asante, is charging Ghanaian filmmakers to produce good movies and that, the movie industry is dead. And that any producer complaining that the movie industry is dying or dead probably has nothing good to offer. Ms Asante mentioned this during an interview with Graphic Showbiz last Thursday September 21. I dont know why anyone would say the movie industry in Ghana is dead or dying. We are doing amazingly well. More than 20 movies have been released this year. I have watched most of them and they are incredible. I would therefore encourage movie producers to do more because the industry needs compelling stories told. Any producer who sits there and complains simply has nothing good to offer, she said. According to Ms Asante, who is also the founding president of the Black Star International Film Institute, organisers of the annual Black Star International Film Festival (BSIFF), Ghanaians are ever ready to patronise good movies if they are well executed. We all love to watch movies and I dont believe Ghanaians will reject any good one. See, why are Yvonne Nelson and Shirley Frimpong Manso filling the cinemas anytime they bring out new movies? This shows Ghanaians have love for our films. We just have to do more, she added. As a way of getting Ghanaians to patronise local movies, she said the NFA has collaborated with movie producers to screen more local movies at the Ghana Cinema Week which began last year. The NFA is on the agenda to get more Ghanaians to watch our movies and we are doing that with Ghana Cinema Week in December. Last year, we had a lot of Ghanaians come to the Black Star Square to watch great movies from our producers and we are doing same this year. We will screen more than 10 movies and we entreat our people to come in their numbers to watch, she stated. Ms Juliet Asante who is a filmmaker and an actress has featured in movies including Twin Lovers, Fresh Blood, Tears of Blood, Ripples, Thread of Ananse and Deadly Voyage. Her film, Silver Rain, was nominated for Best Film in West Africa and Best Costume at the 2015 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA). Recommended article: What really dey go on? - Kelvyn Boy asks Mark Okraku-Mantey Deliberate investment in shea nut: Way to preserve livelihoods Takal Silas Uwumborge Opinion Sep - 28 - 2023 , 05:29 The shea nut sector has been a foundation of livelihoods in Northern Ghana for generations, providing income and sustenance to numerous families. The economic importance of shea nuts and shea butter cannot be overstated, as they are not only valuable commodities for export but also play a significant role in the local economy. To ensure the long-term prosperity of communities in Northern Ghana, deliberate investment in this industry is crucial. Precious resource The shea nut, scientifically known as Vitellaria paradoxa, is native to the African savannah and has been a part of the daily lives of communities in Northern Ghana for centuries. These nuts are a vital source of income for rural households, primarily women, who are the primary collectors and processors of shea nuts. The process of turning shea nuts into shea butter is labour-intensive but rewarding, as it has both local and international demand. Preserving traditional knowledge One of the remarkable aspects of the shea nut sector in Northern Ghana is the rich traditional knowledge that has been passed down through generations. The art of harvesting, processing and using shea butter has been refined over time. However, without adequate investment and support, this knowledge is at risk of being lost. To preserve this cultural heritage, it is essential to invest in training programmes that pass on traditional knowledge to the younger generation. This ensures that the expertise required for sustainable shea nut production continues to flourish. Increasing production, quality Investment in the shea nut industry should also focus on increasing production and improving quality. By providing modern equipment and techniques, farmers and processors can enhance their productivity and the overall quality of shea butter. This not only benefits local markets but also makes Northern Ghana more competitive in the global shea industry. Investment in infrastructure, such as processing facilities, storage and road networks, is also critical. These improvements reduce post-harvest losses and ensure that the shea nuts reach markets in optimal condition. Market access, fair pricing Access to markets is a significant challenge for many shea nut producers in northern Ghana. Investment should be directed towards creating market linkages and supporting the establishment of cooperatives that can negotiate fair prices for their products. This will empower local farmers and ensure that they receive a fair share of the profits generated from the shea nut industry. Sustainable practices Sustainability is key to the long-term viability of the shea nut industry. Investment should promote sustainable farming practices that protect the shea tree population and the ecosystem. Encouraging the planting of shea trees, research and responsible harvesting practices can help ensure that shea nuts continue to be available for future generations. Conclusion The shea nut sector is not just a source of income, but a cultural and economic treasure that must be preserved and nurtured. Deliberate investment in this industry can create a brighter future for the communities that rely on it. By preserving traditional knowledge, increasing production and quality, improving market access and promoting sustainability, Northern Ghana can continue to benefit from the economic opportunities that the shea nut industry provides. It is a win-win scenario for both the people and the environment, ensuring that this precious resource remains a source of livelihood for generations to come. The writer is a PhD Student, University for Development Studies, Tamale, N/R. Embracing new horizons: Life after GIJ Gifty Boadu Opinion Sep - 28 - 2023 , 17:15 Graduating from the University of Media Art and Communication -Institute of Journalism formally called Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ) is not just a milestone; it marks the beginning of a new journey filled with opportunities and challenges. Many graduates may get opportunities like getting a good-paying job just after graduating and others may face challenges like managing to pay off their student loans. Life after GIJ can be both exciting and daunting as graduates step into the professional world armed with their education and experiences. Many GIJ graduates go on to pursue successful careers in various media organizations, both locally and internationally and others choose to start their own business. In this article, I will explore the various paths that GIJ graduates can take and shed light on the possibilities that await them in their chosen fields. The field of media is vast and constantly evolving, offering GIJ graduates numerous avenues to explore. Many choose to work for established media houses, be it newspapers (print), radio stations, or television networks. Here, they can apply their journalism skills, hone their craft, and make a name for themselves in the industry. Others may venture into the world of digital media, leveraging social media platforms and online publications to reach wider audiences and create impactful content. GIJ equips its students not only with journalism skills but also with a solid foundation in public relations and communications. This opens up career opportunities in corporate communications departments, public relations agencies, and non-profit organizations. GIJ graduates can utilize their expertise in crafting compelling messages, managing media relations, and building strong brand images for their clients or employers. The rise of digital platforms has created a wealth of opportunities for content creators. GIJ graduates can leverage their skills in writing, videography, photography, and editing to create engaging content for various platforms. From starting their own blogs, YouTube channels, or podcasts to freelancing for companies and agencies, graduates can showcase their creativity and build a personal brand that sets them apart. For a graduate with a passion for research and academia, pursuing further studies after GIJ can be a rewarding path. Graduates can go for postgraduate programs in journalism, media studies, public relations or related fields to deepen their knowledge and contribute to the academic discourse. This can open doors to teaching positions, research opportunities, or even consultancy roles in the future. To conclude with, life after GIJ is a time of transition and exploration. It is essential for graduates to embrace the changing media landscape, adapt to new technologies, and continuously upgrade their skills. While the path may seem uncertain, it is crucial to remain resilient, proactive, and open to new possibilities. The knowledge gained at GIJ, combined with determination and passion, will undoubtedly pave the way for a successful and fulfilling career in journalism, public relations, media, or related fields. International human rights law, right to vote George Bernard Shaw Opinion Sep - 28 - 2023 , 05:43 The ever-boiling cauldron of angst within the political space of the country continues unabated. In recent times, various political controversies of diverse origins and backgrounds have manifested themselves in the body politic. The palpable and very loud brouhaha that these lies have engendered makes ample fodder for these columns. And it is, therefore, germane that yours truly provides some analysis. The topic in vogue over the past weeks is without doubt the ongoing limited voter registration of the electoral commission. This exercise has polarised the populace to such an extent that it deserves examination. The catalyst for the implosion was the decision of the Electoral Commission (EC) to conduct the exercise mainly in their District Capital offices. There has been a huge hue and cry, especially from the main opposition parties and some prominent Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), that the decision to register newly qualified voters only at the District Capital offices effectively disenfranchises the majority of the would-be eligible persons on the grounds of poverty; that a sizeable proportion of newly eligible voters would not be able to travel to the District Capital offices of the EC for lack of funds. Frontiers As the frontiers of the debate are already at a heightened and very polarised state, this article will not further enflame the embers but rather attempt to shed some light on the right to vote, which is a human right, at the epicentre of this debate. As such, I will be concerned here with the ambit of human rights and; thus, the parameters of the right to vote within the International Human Rights system. Given that Ghana has ratified the Optional Protocol of the UN Charter, we are bound by UN treaties. Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) highlights the role of periodic genuine elections in ensuring that everyone is able to participate in the public affairs of his or her country. The fact that the right to vote, which is subsumed under the right to participate in public affairs, is a human right is unassailable. It is codified and enshrined in Article 25(b) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Article 25(b) of the ICCPR provides citizens with the right and the opportunity to vote and to be elected at genuine periodic elections which are to be by universal and equal suffrage and are to be held by secret ballot, guaranteeing the free expression of the will of the electors. Further, the Human Rights Committee (HRC) has a specific General Comment on its scope. It has the role of monitoring and supervising the implementation by State Parties of the obligations under the ICCPR. In its General Comment No. 25 (1996), the HRC states that the conduct of public affairs is a broad concept that covers all aspects of public administration and the formulation and implementation of policy at international, national, regional and local levels. Basic In October 2018, the HRC presented guidelines on the basic principles that should ensure the effectiveness of the right to participate in public affairs. These promote the advancement of human rights and play a crucial role in the advancement of democracy, the rule of law, social inclusion and development. They are essential for reducing inequalities and social conflict and also important for empowering individuals and groups and the right to vote is one of the core elements of human rights-based approaches aimed at eliminating marginalisation and discrimination. While the responsibility and accountability for making decisions ultimately rests with the public authorities, in this case the EC, the participation of various sectors of the society allows the authorities to deepen their understanding of specific issues. As a result, decision-making is more informed and sustainable and public institutions are more effective and accountable. The heightened debate and the resulting acrimony emanating from the accusations and counter-accusations of disenfranchisement do not bode well for the sanity of our democratic experiment. We have collectively embraced democracy as our way of governance in solidarity with most of the world at large. What we need to do, therefore, is to work assiduously in a spirit of genuine co-operation to tease out the ingredients that sustain the democratic experiment. Elections and, by extension, voting are the fulcrum on which the edifice of democracy stands. Let us work together and recognise that the right of every eligible voter to be included in the voters register is sacrosanct, regardless of their status. The writer is a lawyer. Odorgonno SHS launches 84th founders day Emmanuel Bonney Education Sep - 28 - 2023 , 05:20 The Odorgonno Senior High School in Accra has launched its 84th Founders and Speech and Prize-giving Day with a call on current students to endeavour to uphold some virtues in order to become responsible citizens. A former General Secretary of the Convention Peoples Party (CPP) and member of Class of 1973 of the school, Prof. Nii Noi Dowuona, who made the call, charged students to be responsible, submissive, assertive, independent minded, industrious and conscientious. He said the current crop of students must let the motto: Nobis Nitendum Est (Ours is to Strive), be the guide in pursuit of their education, adding that each of them had their God-given talent that must not be wasted. The school provides us with the environment to express these. In doing so we must be submissive, responsible, assertive, independent minded, industrious and conscientious. It is only by upholding these virtues that we can be responsible citizens. Let us know that good character is a driving force of progress and success. In fact, where character can take you, knowledge alone cannot, he said. Establishment The Odorgonno SHS was established on January 25, 1940 in Adabraka by Joseph T. Leigh with the support of Jerome K. Acquah. It moved to its current location at Awoshie in 1990. It has a current student population of 3, 424; 1,451 boys and 1,973 females. The staff strength of is 200. 105 males and 95 females. Present at the launch of the anniversary last Friday included a former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Martey, and Bernard Allotey Jacobs, a politician. During the event which was on the theme: Raising Responsible Citizens, the Role of Stakeholders, an 84th anniversary logo was unveiled by the invited guests and old students that were present. Prof. Dowuona said raising responsible citizens was a collective effort that involved various stakeholders that included parents, teachers, schools, community and even government and that each of them played a unique role shaping the values, attitudes and behaviours of the individuals. Parents, he said, were the primary influencers in the lives of children and that they had the responsibility to instil moral values through discipline and provide guidance. The headmaster of the school, Patrick Mensah, called for the support of all stakeholders to renovate the blocks in the school. Currently, all the blocks on the compound are crying for renovation. We need the support of all stakeholders to bring the facilities up to speed to meet the standards of Odorgonno SHS, he said. He said the school was ascending steadily on the academic ladder and that from an average pass of 28 per cent previously, the current standing result was 84 per cent pass, a tremendous improvement. He commended the parent-teacher-association, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, for the various roles they had played in the development of the school. 3 Companies donate to Graphic towards free health screening exercise Elizabeth Konadu-Boakye Sep - 28 - 2023 , 09:08 Three companies have donated drugs to the Graphic Communications Group LTD (GCGL) towards its annual health screening exercise for residents of Adabraka in Accra. Letap Pharmaceuticals, Unicom Chemist Limited and Tobinco Pharmaceuticals Limited made the donation when the Corporate Communications Manager of GCGL requested their partnership to support the community. The Commercial Manager of Unicom, Stephen Arthur, said the donation was part of the company's corporate social responsibility in ensuring the safety and health of the people. He said the vision of the company was to provide affordable healthcare solutions to improve the life and well-being of all. "Partnering Graphic on this one is undoubtedly a good cause which goes with the mandate and objectives of the company. It is our small way of reaching out to many people to provide good health and vitality through our numerous products," Mr Arthur said. He added that the company would continue to provide support in various forms to collectively ensure the well-being of citizens. Tobinco The Deputy Managing Director, Marketing, of Tobinco Pharmaceuticals, Dr Christopher Mensah, also explained that the donation was to contribute towards the well-being of citizens and that it formed part of the companys CSR. The mission of the company is to consistently deliver the safest, high-quality and most potent pharmaceuticals and other healthcare products, using highly motivated and competent human capital with an incredible passion for innovation and excellent and superior customer care; this is our small way of expressing it, he said. Appreciation The Corporate Communications Manager for GCGL, Emmanuel Agyei Arthur, expressed appreciation to the companies for their gesture. "These donations contribute to the effort of GCGL to bring together organisations that were socially responsible to deliver good health care to a community," he said. Mr Arthur expressed the hope that the initiative would go a long way to help provide health care for the people of Adabraka. He advised them to patronise the exercise to make it successful. The GCGL has been organising the free health screening exercise for the people of Adabraka for almost two decades now as part of the corporate social responsibility of the company. This years edition, which was to take place on September 30, has been postponed. A new date will be set after consultations with the community. 39th Farmers Day launched Emmanuel Bonney & Mildred Asaah Sep - 28 - 2023 , 07:52 This year's National Farmers Day to reward outstanding farmers and fishers across the country has been launched in Accra. The 39th edition will be held on Friday, December 1, 2023, in the Western Region on the theme: "Delivering smart solutions for sustainable food security and resilience". The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr Bryan Acheampong, in an address read on his behalf, said the government sought to harness the power of innovation and technology to improve on the organisation of the national awards ceremony. He urged the organisers to ensure a successful and memorable event, adding that the occasion promises to be a momentous one since we plan to be a little different by moving away from business as usual, at least at the national level. Commendation Dr Acheampong commended farmers for their hard work, saying we cannot take for granted the constant supply of food and our nutritional needs by our farmers in spite of the numerous challenges they face. The issues of land ownership, limited access to market and financial services, effects of climate change, post-harvest losses, high cost of inputs and low return on investment, among others, should make us appreciate our farmers even more. Through the dedication of our farmers in the face of these adversities, agriculture has remained the backbone and driving force behind the nations food security, industrialisation process, creation of job opportunities, economic growth and foreign exchange earnings from diverse sources, he added. Seth Kwame Acheampong (right), Eastern Regional Minister, handing over the host baton to Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, Western Regional Minister. Picture: ERNEST KODZI The minister, therefore, said there was the need to be more sensitive to the needs of farmers to enable them to optimise production, build resilience and attain a level of competitiveness derived from the efficient use of resources and technology. The Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Moses Anim, also said that the celebration provided the country with the opportunity to reflect on the importance of agriculture and fisheries sectors to national development. He said the ministry was pursuing short, medium and long-term measures to sustainably manage fisheries resources, including the development of the aquaculture industry. Mr Anim mentioned the formulation of a new fisheries and aquaculture policy for the sector and the development of a marine fisheries management and aquaculture development plans as some of the measures. Contribution of farmers The Eastern Regional Minister, Seth Kwame Acheampong, who handed over the baton to the Western Regional Minister, Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, the new host, said agriculture cannot be left out of our development agenda since our cherished farmers are the backbone of the country. As a country, we recognise the efforts of our gallant farmers and it is for this reason that we have for the past 38 years honoured and celebrated them for their hard work. For his part, Mr Darko-Mensah said the fact that his region produced 98 per cent of the countrys rubber, 80 per cent of coconut, 35 per cent of oil palm and 1.5 million metric tons of cassava, among others, showed the uniqueness of the area. Researchers to meet in Ghana to discuss environment and development Zadok Kwame Gyesi Sep - 28 - 2023 , 17:39 About 200 international researchers are expected to meet in Ghana from October 5-9, 2023 in Accra to discuss environment and development issues. The Environment for Development initiative (EfD) Ghana in collaboration with the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER), University of Ghana, and the School of Research and Graduate Studies, GIMPA, will host the 200 researchers as part of the annual meeting of EfD. The event will bring together researchers from the global network to discuss research and how it can contribute to policies for global and national sustainable development. The annual meeting will be preceded on October 4, 2023, by a Policy Day, organised and hosted by EfD Ghana and dedicated to discussing a pertinent environmental issue of national concern. The Policy Day will be held at the ISSER Conference Facility, University of Ghana on the topic: "Sustainable Fisheries Management in Ghana: Prospects and Challenges." The event will gather members of the EfD network and key fisheries sector stakeholders in Ghana and foster research-led discussions and connections, that will make vital contributions to Ghanas efforts to achieve a resilient and sustainable fisheries sector. EfD Ghana is delighted and proud to host the 17th EfD Annual Meeting and Policy Day. We look forward to welcoming the participants and hope to achieve a successful meeting and a memorable experience in Ghana for the participants, says Professor Wisdom Akpalu, the Director of EfD Ghana. For his part, Professor Peter Quartey, the Deputy Director of EfD Ghana said, ISSER is pleased to host the 17th EfD Annual Meeting, and particularly excited about the EfD Ghana Policy Day. These high-level convenings and networks provide an opportunity for us to engage with others and demonstrate our unwavering efforts to promote research-led knowledge and collaborations for national and global development. EfD Ghana was established in 2019 and is one of EfDs 13 international centers promoting the sustainable management of natural resources through policy-relevant research, policy engagement, and capacity development. It is hosted at the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) at the University of Ghana (UG), and the School of Research and Graduate Studies (SRGS) at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA). CJ advocates financial independence of judiciary Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson Sep - 28 - 2023 , 12:00 The Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, has bemoaned the lack of financial independence of the judiciary, saying it was negatively affecting the work of the judiciary and, ultimately, justice delivery. Justice Torkornoo, who was speaking at the 2023 annual general meeting (AGM) of the Association of Magistrates and Judges Ghana (AMJG) yesterday, said although the 1992 Constitution protected the independence of the judiciary, the service had no control over its financial administration. Quoting Article 127 (1) of the 1992 Constitution, the Chief Justice said the Constitution had categorically insulated all activities of the judiciary, including its financial administration, from external control to protect its independence due to the sensitivity of its functions. How can we be an independent arm of government if we do not have control over our finances? Is the constitutionally guaranteed institutional independence of the judiciary only a mirage? Can the institutional independence of the judiciary be asserted when we need clearance to engage staff, clearance to access money generated from court services, and clearance to procure any asset to do our work? she queried. AGM The two-day 2023 AGM is on the theme: A Financially Independent and Accountable Judiciary: The Key to Effective Justice Delivery. It was attended by judges and magistrates across the country, including Justices of the Supreme Court, and other notable personalities in the legal fraternity such as the Attorney-General (A-G) and Minister of Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame; the President of the Ghana Bar Association, Yaw Acheampong Boafo, and the Director of the Ghana School of Law, Barima Oppong Kodie, aka Yaw Oppong. Increase finance Justice Torkornoo said inadequate financing and the lack of financial autonomy had been thorny issues that had bedevilled the judiciary way before she joined the bench as a Justice of the High Court in 2004. She referenced the recent GBA conference in Cape Coast where President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo mentioned an increase in the financial support for anti-graft institutions to tackle corruption, but said such monumental increment had unfortunately not been extended to the Judiciary. While funding for certain institutions had been increased in hundreds of percentages, the percentage increase for the judiciary was noted to be a little over three per cent. The level of financial support for our work ought to increase exponentially not only in quantum, but also in scope, she said. The Chief Justice promised that she would make the quest for financial independence of the judiciary a cornerstone of her administration as part of her overall vision to build a modernised judiciary to better serve the people of the country. Budgetary constraints The A-G, Mr Dame, said although the Constitution was explicit in guaranteeing financial autonomy for the judiciary, its implementation had been fraught with challenges due to budgetary constraints which affected other institutions of state. As Minister of Justice, I undertake to ensure that the estimates of the administrative expenses of the Judiciary duly presented are duly protected and satisfied by the state, but this, of course, is subject to budgetary constraints, he said.Nevertheless, he said, the government, through the District Assemblies Common Fund, had invested heavily in improving the infrastructure of the judiciary by constructing 100 courthouses and 121 residential units for the judiciary across the country. The government, he added, had further invested heavily in other institutions connected to the justice delivery system, including the A-Gs Department, with the construction of the Law House Complex. He said the 12-storey Law House Complex, which would accommodate the office of the A-G, would be completed and inaugurated by the end of this year. Generation of funds The President of the AMJG, Justice Henry Kwofie, said apart from inadequate financing, judges and magistrates were also grappling with delayed allowances for essential items such as fuel, clothing and books, a situation that had left them worse off. On ways to boost the finances of the judiciary, Justice Kwofie said the service must be allowed to retain about 60 per cent of its internally generated funds (IGF) instead of the current 30 per cent. The Director of the Ghana School of Law advocated that a certain percentage of money retrieved from financial crimes after judgments by the courts should be retained by the judiciary to help improve its finances. Ghana on course for EU timber trade licence Timothy Ngnenbe Sep - 28 - 2023 , 12:00 Ghana is in pole position to become the first African country to be issued the Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade (FLEGT) licence to cover its timber and wood products traded on the European market. This followed the conclusion of the Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) with the European Union (EU) 14 years after the country signed the agreement. The conclusion was reached during the 11th Joint Monitoring and Review Mechanism (JMRM) meeting between Ghana and the EU in Brussels, Belgium, from September 20 to 26 this year. The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, led a high-level Ghanaian delegation, made up of representatives from the ministry, the Parliamentary Select Committee on Lands and Forest, and key stakeholder groups to the meeting. The review mechanism was to advance the final procedural steps towards the issuance of FLEGT licences. Context Ghana became the first timber-producing country to sign a VPA with the EU in November 2009. A FLEGT licence is an export licence issued by a VPA partner country for timber or timber-related products destined for the EU market which certifies that the timber or timber-related products being exported under that licence are legal. Under the FLEGT licence regime, timber and timber-related products covered by a valid FLEGT licence automatically meet the requirements of the EU Timber Regulation (EUTR),and prohibit illegally harvested timber and timber-related products derived from such timber from being placed on the EU market. Fourteen years after the start of the implementation of the agreement, and after several significant technical, legal and governance developments in Ghanas forestry sector, the parties agreed that the country is ready for FLEGT licensing. This places Ghana as the second country in the world after Indonesia to begin the trade in legally certified wood and wood products with the EU under the FLEGT mechanism. Ghanas Timber Legality Assurance System (TLAS), when it becomes fully operational in 2024, will mark over a decade of institutional and regulatory reforms in the trade in legal timber. It will also be evidence of the governments commitment to responsible management of the nations forest resources. Outcome of meeting The meeting in Brussels marked a major milestone in the global fight against illegal timber trade and testament to achieving the VPA objective of improved forest governance. During the technical meetings, the parties reviewed and discussed the status of implementation of the agreement. The parties also agreed on the joint action plan towards FLEGT licensing and raised outstanding procedural issues to be addressed before FLEGT licences could be issued. The FLEGT licences attest to the legality of Ghanas timber, and will facilitate trade in timber and timber-related products for both exporters and importers. EU acknowledgement The Director-General at the European Commission's Directorate General for International Partnerships (INTPA), Koen Doens, commended the country for what he described as a remarkable dedication by Ghana to sustainable forest management and the combatting of illegal logging. He said the dedication by the government of Ghana and key actors in the forestry sector, as well as the support and cooperation of the European partners, was what facilitated the FLEGT licensing. This achievement underscores the power of international cooperation in addressing critical global challenges such as deforestation and illegal logging. We look forward to the positive impact that FLEGT licensing will have on Ghana's timber industry and the broader environment, demonstrating how partnerships and persistent efforts can lead to meaningful change," he said. Ghanas resilience Mr Jinapor said Ghana had undertaken major legislative reforms in its forestry sector to enhance forest governance. He said those reforms supported the objectives of the VPA and the countrys commitment to sustainable forest management and the fight against climate change. The Land and Natural Resources Minister added that the country was also addressing the trade in illegal timber in both domestic and regional markets. He said it was in that regard that the country was rolling out a new system for tracking timber on the domestic market that involved both suppliers and traders, and required proof of legality through the chain of custody. Through the VPA, Ghana is controlling illegal timber trade, modernising timber operations and ensuring forestry brings employment in the formal economy and social benefits such as payments to communities through social responsibility agreements, he said. Mr Jinapor said the country had seen significant improvements in forest governance with the implementation and operation of the timber legality assurance system. He observed that the forthcoming issuance of FLEGT licences to the EU market and licences to other international destinations would be undergirded with the same legality standards. The minister said the countrys commitment to the VPA, as well as halting and reversing forest loss and land degradation by 2030, remained absolute. Adam Skrutkowski of Teslin, Yukon, saw this plane sitting at an Alaska Highway rest stop on Tuesday. The owners told him they were forced to land on the highway because of thick smoke in the air. (Adam Skrutkowski - image credit) Yukon's highway rest stops see plenty of cars, trucks and RVs, but airplanes? Not so much. That's why Adam Skrutkowski was surprised to see a small Cessna plane parked on Tuesday afternoon at a quiet Alaska Highway rest stop at the Lower Rancheria River, between Watson Lake and Teslin. There was no one to be seen nearby, but Skrutkowski had a solid hunch where the people on board had gone. A few miles back, he had passed a couple walking down the highway. He had noticed they didn't have a rifle with them so they couldn't be hunting, but otherwise had given them little thought until he saw the plane. "So I turned around, drove back, caught up to them and spoke to them," Skrutkowski said. "They mentioned that due to the smoke in the air, which is quite heavy in some areas, they had an emergency landing on the highway." Skrutkowski said the smoke in the area was indeed bad that day. "It was a pretty thick in some areas ... I had to wear two masks inside my car, because of the smoke." The couple told him they were from Alaska and they were flying south. After landing on the highway, they were walking to see if visibility was likely to improve ahead. "They were walking up the hill to see into the next valley, and I let them know that not much changed between there and towards the Upper Liard," Skrutkowski said. He asked if the couple needed any help, or a ride, but they told him they'd be fine and were ready to camp out if need be. "I can almost use the word 'unreasonably calm,'" to describe them, Skrutkowski said. Christopher Altherr, chair of the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association in the Yukon, told CBC News that the highway landing was "unusual." "That's sort of the last resort, you're not really planning on that," Altherr said. "[The pilot] probably did the right thing, rather than pushing forwards and causing an accident." The aircraft, a 1954 Cessna 180, is registered to a business in Anchorage. CBC News also contacted the Transportation Safety Board and RCMP about the incident, but had not received a response by Wednesday afternoon. Group calls for pad banks in deprived communities Shirley Asiedu-Addo & Francisca Eshun Sep - 28 - 2023 , 05:56 More than 1000 members of the Empowered Youth In Action (TEYIA) project have petitioned the government to create sanitary pad banks in deprived communities to support vulnerable girls to have decent periods. The TEYIA project is being implemented the International Needs Ghana with support from UNICEF, Spotlight Initiative and the European Union together with other adolescent empowerment organisations. The implementing districts are Komenda Edina Eguafo Abrem, Cape Coast and Mfantseman all in the Central Region. To drum home their demand, they processed through the streets of the Cape Coast Metropolis with placards which had inscriptions that called for youth well-being and empowerment after which they presented a petition to the representative of the Central Regional Minister, Justina Marigold Assan, at the Regional Coordinating Council. While calling for the removal of taxes on sanitary pads, they proposed that sanitary pad banks be created in all communities to support vulnerable girls who have difficulty buying sanitary pads during their menses. The group said it believed no girl must endure her menstruation because she does not have access to sanitary pads. The petition explained that in most deprived communities, adolescent girls already had difficulty buying sanitary pads, adding that the new tax had made the product even more expensive. This, it indicated, had put young girls at risk of exploitation from some men who lure girls with the intention to buy sanitary pads for them and end up having unprotected sex with them. The petition said the situation put the girls at risk of unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. Co-habitation While acknowledging the many efforts to champion the fight against adolescent pregnancy, child marriage and promotion of girls and womens empowerment in the region, they proposed that the fight be intensified to end that menace. "In as much as we have had significant achievements, there is still more work to be done to reduce child marriage, cohabitation, drug abuse among the youth and the overall youth development for sustainable development in the region and Ghana at large," it stated. The petitioners further observed that co-habitation and child marriage were still major problems in the communities affecting the education and general well being of girls, adding that when adolescent girls get pregnant, most parents send them away from home to live with the men who impregnated them. The petitioners proposed that the Regional Minister engage the Regional House of Chiefs to pass by-laws on cohabitation and child marriage that would discourage the practice and to encourage the chiefs as custodians of the country's traditions and culture by laws to send a strong message to communities on child marriage. They called for an increase in education on sexual reproduction health and rights to empower the youth with knowledge on how to protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies. The Central Regional Coordinating Director, Kingsley Agyei Boahene, who received the petition on behalf of the minister, said the minister was committed to work with the stakeholders to promote youth well-being and empowerment. U-turn: Korle-Bu agrees to review proposed new cost of dialysis downwards Zadok Kwame Gyesi Sep - 28 - 2023 , 13:00 The Chief Executive of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH), Dr. Opoku Ware Ampomah, says the hospital will review the new proposed increase in the cost of renal dialysis downwards. A notice from the Renal Department of the hospital informing the public about an increment in the cost of renal dialysis from GH380 to GH765.42 went viral on social media earlier this week. This was received with mixed reactions including the fact that Parliament was not even aware of the increment. Many of those who reacted to the new pricing said it will make the cost of treatment extremely difficult for many patients. People with kidney failures are usually put on dialysis treatment to help them get rid of waste products and excess fluid from their blood when the kidneys are unable to perform such function. As a premier teaching hospital, all fees and charges are supposed to be forwarded to Parliament for approval through the Ministry of Health. But indications were that, this has not been done. The hospital's management in a press statement dated Wednesday, September 27, 2023 said the new cost was only a proposal. The statement also said that the hospital would continue to subsidize dialysis. CEO speaks on issue In a radio interview with Accra based Joy FM on Thursday afternoon (Sept 28) monitored by Graphic Online, the CEO of the hospital, Dr. Ampomah said the new adjustment in the cost of renal dialysis treatment was necessitated by the exchange rate which has affected some of the materials needed for treatment. Although he indicated that there will be some review of the new adjustments to lessen the financial burden on patients, the review will not be as significant as many Ghanaians wanted due to many factors affecting their operations. Dr. Ampomah also indicated that management of the hospital will be engaging Parliament regarding the cost of treatment. He also called on philanthropic groups and individuals to help subsidize the cost of treatment for patients. Read also: Proposed price adjustment for renal dialysis yet to be approved by Korle-Bu M-CODe Convenor rallies support of chiefs & religious leaders to fight open defecation Zadok Kwame Gyesi Sep - 28 - 2023 , 16:02 The National Convenor of the Media Coalition Against Open Defecation (M-CODe), Francis Ameyibor, has appealed to religious and traditional leaders to play a role in the fight against open defecation in the country. For him, religious and traditional leaders could use their influence to help change peoples behaviours towards open defecation and other unhygienic practices. He expressed the concern that in spite of the fact that open defecation remains a major threat to peoples health, the practice continues unabated in many parts of the country. Mr. Ameyibor made the remarks during an M-CODe Empowerment Summit in Accra last Friday. The summit was aimed building alliances with strategic stakeholders, including the Regional Coordinating Council, Environmental Health Department, Ghana Education Service, National Commission for Civic Education, Regional Environmental Officers, the Environmental Protection Agency, World Vision, Ghana Health Service, Community Water and Sanitation Agency, and the Department of Community Development, to combat the practices of open defecation in the country. The M-CODe Convenor also called on the government and development partners to extend the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA) Sanitation and Water Project (SWP) to other parts of the country. He said the GAMA project has helped many households to own toilet facilities, a feat he said, will inure to the benefit of the country. For Mr. Ameyibor, apart from the health implications of open defecation, it was also a shameful thing to do and that You cannot just go out and defecate. He said M-CODe as part of its activities to combat the practice, will be recognising communities that are doing well in fighting the menace and would also be shaming communities engaging in the practice. We cannot continue to defecate in the open, he bemoaned the situation, pledging the readiness of the coalition to upscale its efforts towards the open defecation fight in the country. Mr. Ameyivor said the coalition has established branches in other regions of the country to enable its members prioritise sanitation related issues. Speaking at the summit, the World Vision Ghana Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Technical Specialist, Mr. Yaw Attah Arhin, expressed the concern that the country ought to have moved beyond discussing the subject of open defecation. For him, more action was needed to end the practice in the country, urging the M-CODe to go beyond public education in their publications and also engaged the political class whose actions could help to end the practice. There is now the need for more action to be taken against open defecation, Mr Arhin said, adding when decision makers are engaged, their directives could trickle down to the last community in the country. He also stressed the need for collaboration among stakeholders to help achieve the goal of ending open defecation in the country by 2030. For his part, the GAMA Knowledge Management Expert, Emmanuel Addai, encouraged tenants to boycott households without toilet facilities, explaining that if tenants avoided houses without toilet facilities, it would compel property owners to include toilet facilities in their households. He said when people adhere to good hygienic practices, it would help to prevent many diseases, including cholera, diarrhea, and typhoid. In a presentation, the Tema Metropolitan Health Officer, Wisdom Aditsey, called on all relevant stakeholders to come together to help end open defecation in the country. He said no one entity could end open defecation menace and that bringing all stakeholders on one page would help to advance the national efforts. He said the Tema Metropolis was working hard to ensure that open defecation becomes a thing of the past, urging the police to partner the environmental health unit to fight the practice in the country. Manya Jorpanya celebrates Ngmayem Festival - Chief marks 25th anniversary rom Samuel Tei Adano, MANYA JORPANYA Sep - 28 - 2023 , 05:28 The chiefs and people of Manya Jorpanya, near Shai Hills in the Greater Accra Region have celebrated this years Ngmayem festival. This years festival also marked the 25th anniversary of the enstoolment of Nene Dr Tei-Djahene Korabo IV, as the chief of Manya Jorpanya and the Senior Asafoatse of the Shai Traditional Area. The colourful event brought guests from the diaspora and chiefs from the Central, Eastern, Western, and Greater Accra regions to witness the much-celebrated Ngmayem festival with real, unadulterated culture and tradition from the people of Manya Jorpanya. Ngmayem festival The Ngmayem festival is celebrated by the people of Manya Jorpanya every year to indicate bumper harvest, peace, unity, and love for one another. A whole week is devoted to the celebration with a homecoming, clean-up exercise, a visit to the ancestral home, durbar, games, storytelling, and thanksgiving ceremony which climaxes week-long activities. This years celebrations climaxed with a durbar in the morning and a musical concert in the evening where artistes entertained guests to good music. Partnership for development Addressing the durbar, the Eastern Regional Minister, Seth Acheampong, called on chiefs to partner the government to bring development projects to their respective areas. As custodians of tradition and customs, he encouraged the chiefs to help instill discipline in the youth. He noted that chiefs were custodians of the land and the direct channels through which investors could provide jobs for the youth in the country. Commendation Mr Acheampong commended Nene Korabo IV for his selflessness, dedication, determination, courage, dexterity and transformational agenda to the elders and people of Jorpanya. He described the physical infrastructure, jobs for the youth, access to electricity, opening of the town to investors, access road to and from the town as some of the manifestations which caught his attention. He, however, appealed to the chief to share his tremendous experience with other chiefs to implement for their people. If all chiefs will emulate and distinguish themselves in this manner, Ghana will become a beacon of hope, and the youth will work hard to support the economy, he noted. The regional minister further commended the people for their peaceful co-existence, particularly among Christians and Muslims in the area, expressing his excitement that they had stayed and worked together without any conflict. Your kind of leadership is visible, real, and tantamount to greatness and progression, he stated. Challenges Nene Korabo IV thanked the chiefs and people of Manya Jorpanya for their support, sacrifices, and loyalty to him for the past 25 years. He said even though it had not been easy, he stood his ground and ensured that he worked with his elders to bring development to the area despite the challenges confronting them. He appealed to the government to provide the area with a secondary school to absorb most of the youth who completed their Junior High School (JHS) education and had to attend school in other towns several miles away from Manya Jorpanya. Nene Korabo IV further appealed to the Minister of Roads and Highways to assist the town with access roads after linking the town to the main road. Okyenhene addresses US universities on climate change Nana Konadu Agyeman Sep - 28 - 2023 , 05:39 The Okyenhene, 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 environmental conservation and protection. 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. Call for action A statement issued today and signed by the Chief of Staff of the Ofori Panin Fie, Nana Twumasi Ankrah, said during the visit, the two institutions will organise durbars for the Okyenhene to address faculty and students on topics bothering on climate change and the urgent need for collective action to reduce its impact, especially on poorer countries. He will emphasise the interconnectedness of humans and the environment, drawing on his people's historical reverence for nature, the statement said. 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, it said. The statement noted that ss the Heads of States and Government will 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 speech will offer a fresh perspective on the role of traditional leadership in environmental conservation. The Okyenhene will issue a call to action to the university community and the wider society. He is also expected to urge individuals, institutions and governments to take responsibility for their environmental impact and to work together to address climate change, it said. Per the statement, the Okyenhene will also emphasise the importance of collaboration among various groups and individuals as no one entity or group can tackle climate change challenge alone. 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, it said. Role of traditional leaders Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin is also billed to touch on the role traditional leaders have played in African societies for centuries, guiding their communities in matters ranging from governance to resource management. Old Swesconians rally members for devt - Launch 65th anniversary Diana Mensah Sep - 28 - 2023 , 05:50 The Old Swesconians Association has launched its 65th anniversary in Accra with a call on members to raise funds to bridge the infrastructural deficit gap in the school. The night was marked in a grand style with the launch of the associations 65th anniversary, the unveiling of a new school crest, the theme for the 65th anniversary and a documentary of the current state of the school. The event, which was on the theme: Building a resilient educational institution in a challenging global economy: The gains and challenges of the Swesco journey attracted a large retinue of all year groups the Swedru Senior High School had nurtured over the past six decades. Infrastructure deficit A documentary about the current state of the school revealed several challenges such as limited resources, particularly huge infrastructural deficit resulting in insecurity. These included lack of a fence around the school, abandoned or unfinished building projects, poor state of school laboratories and dining halls. The Headmistress of the school, Golda Andam, highlighting the challenges, said there was a huge staff accommodation problem and that only 28 teachers out of the 178 were on campus. That, according to the headmistress, made it very difficult to maintain discipline among the students and added that : We have about 4,000 students with just few teachers on campus to supervise and attend to these students. We call upon all stakeholders to come in to support and improve on the infrastructural facilities in the school because it is when you have enough infrastructure that your academics will improve, she said. Revive The President of the Global Old Swesconians Association, Samuel Attah Mensah, said the initiative was to revive, strengthen and to identify some of the needs of the school. We also want to use this occasion to launch our 65th anniversary which will be climaxed in March next year and to galvanise the body of our association and to help bring direction and purpose to the association, he said. He expressed the hope that members of the association would help expand the existing dining hall, embark on a building project to house more teachers on campus, renovate and expand the science laboratory project, and also start an Agric farm project. Mr Mensah said the association was committed to giving back to the school and therefore, expressed the hope that members would raise funds to execute the projects by next year. Structured environment A Deputy Minister of Education, John Ntim Fordjour, said the ministry would take the necessary steps to ensure that the building projects were awarded to qualified contractors to provide quality work and a more structured environment for the students. He reiterated the governments commitment to improve the educational system in the country in spite of the global economic downturn. Rev. Fordjour, therefore, commended the association for contributing to the development of the school, adding: Theres much more we can do together to ensure the bright future of the children. As part of his contribution, Rev. Fordjour donated GH10,000 to support the schools project. Night of music The night was set for fun as the CLOGSAG band entertained guests with different genres of music, while tables were served with drinks with members of the association taking selfies and group photos. After the acknowledgment of year groups and dignitaries, the global president of the association led the fundraising and auctioning of memorabilia. There was a musical interlude at a point during the programme for all present to eat, drink and make merry. Parliamentary caucus criticizes Korle-Bu Hospital for unauthorized dialysis fee hike GraphicOnline Sep - 28 - 2023 , 08:32 The Minority Caucus in Parliament has raised concerns over the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital's unilateral decision to increase the cost of renal dialysis from GHS380 to GHS765.42, denouncing the move as "illegal and outrageous." The Minority Caucus' Spokesperson on Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh maintains that the hospital lacks the authority to establish its fees and charges without parliamentary approval. Korle-Bu is a public institution so they cannot set their own fees and charges and any charge should come through Parliament through the Subsidiary Legislation Committee of course, I am also a member of the Subsidiary Legislation Committee and I dont know of any such outrageous amount approved for the charge for dialysis and so any such fees that is being charged in Korle-Bu is strictly illegal and they must stop with immediate effect, he said in an interview on Citi FM. Mr. Akandoh further urged the hospital to prioritize the delivery of quality healthcare services to Ghanaians over profit-making. The main objective of a public health facility is not profit-making. The main objective of every public health facility in this country is to provide quality healthcare to the people and not profit-making, he said. Mr. Akandoh said that if the excessive charges are not retracted by Monday, October 2, the Minority Caucus will be compelled to conduct an on-site visit to assess the situation. If they do not stop, we will be there by Monday to have first-hand information and from there, we will have to haul the Minister of Health before the Subsidiary Legislation Committee to come and answer some questions because this is highly unacceptable, it is unconscionable, and we must not entertain it, he said. Remove taxes on sanitary pad - NGO urges govt Joshua Bediako Koomson Sep - 28 - 2023 , 05:34 The Executive Director of the Obaapa Development Foundation, Nanahemaa Adwoa Awindor, has urged the government to take swift action to eliminate taxes on sanitary pads to make them affordable to all women and girls. At this point in time, it is crucial for the government to scrap taxes on sanitary pads and also make them free for school girls to help keep them in school, she said. The plea comes amid the growing request from activists, individuals and civil society organisations, pushing for a more accessible menstrual hygiene products for women and girls across the nation. She made this plea during the Obaapa Women and Childrens Day celebration in Accra last Wednesday. Celebration The event, which was organised by the Obaapa Development Foundation, in collaboration with Unity Queens Ghana and its partners, was aimed at enhancing the well-being of children and women at La and its environs. It was attended by over 300 students from various schools in the community. They were empowered to stand against gender violence. The occasion was also used to promote menstrual conversation and tackled issues surrounding teenage pregnancy. Tax removal Nanahemaa Awindor further explained the removal of taxes on sanitary pads must be coupled with the provision of free sanitary pads to create a comprehensive strategy that not only ensures accessibility but also supports girls' education and overall well-being. This holistic approach, she argued, would serve as a compelling incentive for girls to attend school consistently just as the way free meals in schools encourage regular attendance. Nanahemaa Awindor also underscored the importance of providing free sanitary materials to girls in need, emphasising that it would help alleviate the financial burdens that often deterred girls from attending school during their menstrual cycle. She emphasised the urgency of the request, stating that the government must act quickly to eliminate the taxes. Her call to action resonates with the ongoing national dialogue on the importance of menstrual hygiene and its impact on the education and empowerment of girls and women. Scrap Article 71, its unfair - TUC charges Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson Sep - 28 - 2023 , 12:00 The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has joined the call for the special salary and emoluments dispensation given to office holders under Article 71 of the 1992 Constitution to be scrapped, saying the provision is discriminatory. The Secretary-General of the TUC, Dr Anthony Yaw Baah, said Article 71 had created a super-class of people at the expense of others, fuelling discrimination and injustice against other classes of public sector workers. Speaking at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) Constitutional Review seminar last Tuesday, Dr Baah said: Article 71 smacks of discrimination between the political elite and the people. Why should some public servants be placed under Article 71 and others treated differently? We must either amend or change the Constitution and scrap Article 71. The TUC boss said Article 71 of the 1992 Constitution was also at variance with other provisions of the same Constitution such as Article 24 which stipulates equal pay for equal work without distinction of any kind. Article 71 Article 71 office holders include the President, Vice-President, Ministers of State, Deputy Ministers, Speaker of Parliament, his Deputies, Members of Parliament, Justices of the Superior Court of Judicature, Members of the Council of State, and Chairpersons and Deputy Chairpersons of the Electoral Commission (EC); Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), the Auditor-General and the Administrator of the District Assembly Common Fund. Others are the chairmen, vice-chairmen and members of the National Council for Higher Education, the National Media Commission (NMC), the Public Services Commission and the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE). Under Article 71 of the Constitution, the President, upon recommendation of a committee established by the President, determines the salaries and benefits of a chunk of the Article 71 office holders, while Parliament, based on a recommendation by the same committee, determines that of the President, the Vice-President, Ministers and Deputy Ministers and Members of the Council of State. There has been intense public debate about Article 71 office holders, especially the bulk sum of money paid to some of them periodically that has come to be known as ex gratia in the public space. However, Parliament and the Judiciary have rejected the notion that their members are paid ex gratia, explaining that their members only receive accumulated outstanding salaries and not ex gratia. Constitutional review The IEA event was on the theme: Constitutional Amendment: Views and Reflections of the TUC and it formed part of a series of lectures organised by the IEA for notable individuals and interest groups to share their views on areas of the Constitution that ought to be reviewed. It was attended by a former Speaker of Parliament, Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye, who was the Chairperson for the occasion; a former Chief Justice, Justice Sophia Akuffo, and a member of the Council of State, Sam Okudzeto. Some distinguished persons who have already mounted the IEA platform to share their views on the constitutional review include former President John Agyekum Kufuor, Justice Akuffo, Mr Okudzeto, the Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensa-Bonsu; former Minority Leader, Haruna Iddrisu; former Chairperson of the NMC, Krabal Blay-Amihere, and international relations and governance expert, Dr Vladimir Antwi Danso. Dr Baahs presentation which dealt extensively with labour issues in relation to the Constitution also touched on the need to amend the Constitution to unite the country, spur development and limit the acrimonious partisanship which he described as the bane of the countrys development. Protect public servants Dr Baah advocated a robust enforcement of Article 191 of the 1992 Constitution would protect public servants from discrimination, dismissal and demotion without a just cause. He said the current partisanship and political colourisation of the country had made public servants sacrificial lambs for politicians who, unjustifiably, sacked or intimidated them upon a change in government In 2017, the Secretary to the President wrote two paragraph letters to public officers, dismissing them with a two-hour notice. Public sector workers must be protected and this provision must be extended to private sector workers, Dr Baah added. The TUC Secretary-General added that Article 86 of the Constitution must also be amended to change the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) from an advisory body to the President to a more robust entity with legal backing to chart the course of the countrys developmental agenda. Dr Baah, who is also a member of the NDPC, said the commission in its current state, had been deprived of any significance and virtually existed only in name. All the important ministers, Governor of the Bank of Ghana and other key stakeholders are members of NDPC but they do not attend meetings. NDPC is, therefore, an institution that cannot do anything, he added. He said the country should learn from other countries such as Kenya, where their equivalence of the NDPC played a key role in development to the extent that national budgets must be approved by such institutions before being sent to Parliament. Framework Contributing to the discussion, Justice Akuffo said the call for a constitutional review should not be centred on changing the entire constitution. She said the constitution was only a framework that was supposed to guide detailed legislation to help grow the country; unfortunately, Parliament had reneged on its responsibility to undertake such tasks. The constitution is sufficient to empower the legislature to legislate the details but it had over the years failed to do so, she added. Recall Former President John Dramani Mahama has also said that when he becomes President he will scrap the payment of ex gratia to members of the Executive under Article 71 of the 1992 Constitution. For those in the other arms of government, he said, the necessary steps would be taken to persuade them to also accept the scrapping of ex gratia payment. Ghana hosts 66th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference Nana Konadu Agyeman Politics Sep - 28 - 2023 , 05:46 Ghanas Parliament will host the 66th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC) at the Accra International Conference Centre in Accra from September 30 to October 6, 2023. The event will be held on the theme: The Commonwealth Charter 10 years on: Values and principles for Parliaments to uphold. It is billed to attract 600 delegates, including speakers and presiding officers, parliamentarians, clerks-to-parliaments, parliamentary staff and key stakeholders in the parliamentary governance sector. Others will include observers and accompanying officials from 56 national branches (national legislatures) and 111 sub-national branches (state/provincial legislatures) across the nine geographic regions of the Commonwealth. It will be held under the patronage of the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, who also doubles as the President of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) and the President of the Ghana Branch of the association. Objectives Briefing the media on the event, the Clerk-to-Parliament, Cyril Nsiah, said the conference was aimed at fostering dialogue and cooperation among member countries to address pressing global challenges within the context of Commonwealth values. The conference will emphasise the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in addressing these challenges and highlight the role of parliaments in shaping policies that benefit their citizens, the Ghana Branch Secretary of the CPA said. The conference is expected to commence officially with an opening ceremony on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, under the patronage of the President of Ghana and the Vice-Patron of the CPA, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who will be the keynote speaker. The opening ceremony will be followed by workshops to discuss various topics relating to security, human rights, environment, economy, gender and other cross-cutting issues. Host nations workshop will be organised by Ghana to deliberate on the topic: Combating the threat of terrorism to Statehood: The Role of Parliament, Mr Nsiah said. We have invited the minister of National Security to lead discussions on the topic, he said. Side events The Clerk-to-Parliament indicated that the event would be held alongside other conferences, meetings and workshops, including the CPA General Assembly, meetings of the CPA Executive Committee, the 39th CPA Small Branches conference and meetings of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP). Others will be the meeting of Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities (CPwD) Networks, the 57th meeting of the Society of Clerks at the Table (SoCATT), as well as a presentation of the 2023 Commonwealth Parliamentarian of the Year awards. Mr Nsiah said as part of efforts to promote Ghana by showcasing the natural resource endowments, history, culture and traditions of the country to the international community, some tourist sites had been identified for visit by the delegates on Tuesday, October 3, 2023. Have love, will travel: Irene Lidia Wang and Luca Mussari in Athens earlier this summer (Handout) Earlier this summer Irene Lidia Wang and Luca Mussari were living in Turkey. Currently they are based in a historic Romanian city noted for its architecture and its nightlife, but next month they will call sun-drenched Morocco home. After that it is Mexico, and then the whole of South America is theirs for the taking. Two years ago, Lidia Wang and Mussari decided to jump off the nine-to-five treadmill in a decisive way. They gave notice on their Battersea flat, quit their London jobs and rebranded themselves as digital nomads. We were climbing the corporate ladder in London, we were living a comfortable life, but life felt kind of stagnant, said Lidia Wang. We didnt travel, we didnt experience anything new and it felt like it was a trap. Now we explore new places, live like locals and can work, too. It is perfect. Working from a hammock in Sri Lanka (Handout) Irene, now 29, moved to London in 2014 to study history of art at University College London. Mussari, 31, followed a year later and, after a stint as a waiter, took a masters degree in marketing and communications at the University of Westminster. After graduating the couple, who are both Italian by birth, settled down to building their careers. Lidia Wang pivoted into designing websites and apps, while Mussari worked for a series of household-name firms, specialising in search engine optimisation. But while their careers were flying, the couple felt something was missing from their lives and the pandemic gave them time to take stock. We were working nine-to-five, and we were going and going without really thinking, said Mussari. At weekends we were too tired to go out, so we would just sit and watch Netflix, and we realised that our life was all about work. A trip to Malaysia was a highlight (Handout) The couple had moved all over London during their time in the capital but by 2021 they were renting a studio flat in Battersea. They had got, by London standards, a sweet pandemic deal on the property, which cost them 1,600pcm. It was still a crazy amount for any other city and when the pandemic ended, our landlord asked us to increase the rent to 2,100pcm, which was obviously not ideal for us, said Mussari. Story continues During the pandemic Lidia Wang had begun exploring freelance job options, a natural progression in her line of work. Mussari, however, was expecting to be called back to his desk at any moment and the thought of commuting and office-based life did not appeal. I was literally having panic attacks, I could not sleep and one night it was so bad that I decided to quit, without any plan at all, he said. A steal: the couples flat in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, costs about 600pcm (Alamy Stock Photo) He posted about his decision to leave his job on LinkedIn, and asked if anyone might be interested in the services of a freelance SEO consultant. So many people replied to me, which was such a surprise, but I ended up getting freelance work from the first day, he said. In September 2021 the couple booked a flight to Madeira, Portugal, and set off on what has become an epic around-the-world adventure. During that first year they went to diverse destinations including Budapest, Cape Verde, Albania and Montenegro, targeting relatively inexpensive countries. They tend to find accommodation via Airbnb and Booking.com or stay in inexpensive guest houses and co-living spaces. We visited 12 countries in 12 months, said Mussari. Living as digital nomads allowed them to escape a hefty London rent increase (Handout) After that the couple branched out to South East Asia, ticking Thailand, Cambodia, Sri Lanka and Malaysia off their wish list before returning to Europe. After they finish their stay in Cluj-Napoca the unofficial capital of Romanias Transylvania region, where their one-bedroom flat costs them about 600pcm they are making a flying visit to their families in Italy, before hitting Morocco. Their footloose lifestyle does have its downsides. All the travel is tiring, and being in a strange city with no friends can feel very lonely. But the couple have each other and have met a new network of digital nomad friends online. This inspired them to set up Freaking Nomads, an online community offering advice, inspiration and the chance to connect with like-minded fellow travellers. The benefits of travel have been huge. Exploring new places has been thrilling, more than enough to tempt them off the sofa at weekends. Being outside my comfort zone I have learnt so much about the privileges that I used to take for granted, like a good shower, said Irene. For her, a trip highlight was a visit to Penang Island, Malaysia. I am half-Chinese and I discovered so much history of Chinese people emigrating to Malaysia, bringing their culture and traditions with them things that were lost in mainland China during the Cultural Revolution, she said. That, for me, has been an amazing experience. The couple have no plans to give up travelling and go back to renting in London (Handout) Mussari particularly enjoyed a month spent in Sri Lanka. We were in a small place on the coast, we worked from a cafe watching the ocean, it was great weather and we could go surfing before work and take our scooter and go exploring afterwards. For dinner we would buy this really fresh, really cheap, just-caught fish from a stall and cook it for ourselves. Irene and Mussari have absolutely no plans to settle down any time soon. If it is just the two of us we will probably do this forever, said Lidia Wang. And we have met so many nomad families using different online platforms for school and bringing their children with them that we know that is also an option for us. Isaac Adongo's suggestions on what should be done with NIB Graphic.com.gh Politics Sep - 28 - 2023 , 16:00 The Minority in Parliament has raised concerns about the National Investment Bank (NIB) and urged the government to undertake a restructuring of the bank's balance sheet. The Bank of Ghana (BoG) in July 2023 said it was in discussions with the government to assess the viability of the state-owned NIB. The discussions, which are expected to be concluded by next year, would determine the fate of NIB. Under the IMF programme, the BoG has committed to completing the remaining tasks from the financial sector cleanup, and these tasks include addressing the insolvency of NIB as well as the long-standing under-capitalisation of several special deposit-taking institutions (SDIs). There are talks of a merger between ADB Bank and the National Investment Bank (NIB) but Banking Consultant, Dr Richmond Atuahene, has warned that any move to merge ADB Bank and NIB in their current states will be a disaster. He said ADB in its current state post the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) did not have the muscles to take over a bank like NIB which has been battling for about six years now. Following the completion of the financial sector reforms, all the banks operating in Ghana, successfully recapitalised to GH400 million with the exception of NIB who are yet to do so. The NIB, together with four other banks namely ADB Bank, OminiBSIC, UMB Bank and Prudential Bank were given government guarantee through the Ghana Amalgamated Trust (GAT), which was a special purpose vehicle set to help these five banks recapitalise. NIB, however, failed to utilise this opportunity as its liquidity and capital challenges far exceeded what was originally envisaged and has still remained undercapitalised. With the bank being a state bank, the considerations were different, and therefore the bank has continued to operate till now despite not meeting the new minimum capital requirement. Recently, there have been media speculations of a possible takeover of NIB by ADB, which is also owned by the state. Talks of a merger between the two state owned banks are not new, as the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori Atta, in 2017 hinted of a merger of the two banks to form a Development Bank. Adongo: NIB too important to collapse, govt must restructure balance sheet At a press conference in Parliament House on Thursday [September 28, 2023], Isaac Adongo, the Ranking Member on Parliaments Finance Committee said there was a viable alternative to the banks predicament, suggesting that the government should restructure NIBs balance sheet by converting all NIB debts owed to the government into equity. We said that the government should just restructure the balance sheet of NIB to swap all the NIB debts that it owes the government and give the government equity but the government says it doesnt have money to capitalise the bank but it has given 500 million bonds to NIB and it has given 800 million debt to NIB the two will give you 1.2 billioncommit to say that is your commitment to recapitalisation so we issue shares for you. Adongo questioned the governments decision to consider the liquidation of NIB, implying that there might be hidden motives behind their move. He proposed that the government seek assistance from the Minority, who are willing to provide a team of experts to work independently and without interference to revitalize NIB. How on earth can you kill such a bank, ladies and gentlemen unless there is an ulterior motive, they should come to the Minority, we will give them a group of people to work for free, with a clear mandate, no interference and NIB will be the most viable bank, the most well-capitalised bank and the most liquid bank, it is clear that is not about the interest of NIB. The Minority has also affirmed that it will only support the approval of the $250 World Bank facility for the financial stability fund if priority is given to struggling state banks. Attached below is the full copy of the statement read by Isaac Adongo A PRESS CONFERENCE ADDRESSED BY HON. ISAAC ADONGO, MP FOR BOLGATANGA CENTRAL AND RANKING MEMBER ON PARLIAMENTS FINANCE COMMITTEE. Thursday, 28th September, 2023. RESOLVING THE LIQUIDITY AND RECAPITALISATION CHALLENGES OF NIB, OUR NATIONS PRIDE THE MINORITYS PERSPECTIVE. Good morning to you, Hon colleagues, Distinguised ladies and Gentlemen of the media, and invited guests present. We have invited you here for this press briefing to share with the people of Ghana, through you, our alternative perspectives on how to RESOLVE THE LIQUIDITY AND RECAPITALISATION CHALLENGES OF NIB BANK FOR GHANA TO COMPLY WITH THE IMF EXTENDED CREDIT FACILITY(EFC) PROGRAM FOR A STRONG FINANCIAL SECTOR. Ladies and Gentlemen, I guess we all still remember that between 2017 and 2018, the government of Ghana, acting through the Bank of Ghana, embarked on what it termed the Banking Sector Clean up. It is trite knowledge that this action resulted in the revocation of licenses of many universal banks and a host of Deposit-taking financial institutions disappearing because of the methods chosen by the governor and his team. They relied on regulatory provisions of the Banks and specialised deposit-taking institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930), which became operational in April 2017. The revocation methods used were chaotic and were characterised by high-handedness, fraught with predatory regulatory actions, political biases and were riddled with technical flaws. The authorities preferred to use overly expensive options rather than the obviously known least cost approaches and preservation regulation methods that proved successful in jurisdictions such as China, Canada, Europe, America and elsewhere. It was, therefore, not surprising that the financial sector, after enduring the incompetent policies of the new government, left gaping holes and fragilities in the banking sector. By the end of the exercise, a whopping Gh25 billion had been spent to collapse over 400 financial institutions, leaving in its wake the killing of confidence in the financial sector with a collapse of several of its layers and value chain institutions such as savings and loans companies, finance houses, rural and community banks and micro- finance institutions. Panic withdrawals resulting from the run on financial institutions left most of them with recapitalisation proceeds inadequate to strengthen these banks. The essence of the failed banking sector clean- up was to emancipate the indigenous banks and financial institutions with a huge dose of regulatory forbearance to keep several non-compliant financial institutions afloat, especially NIB owned by Government that continued to operate from a very deep-hole. Ladies and Gentlemen, it is instructive to note that every viable and constructive alternative proposals by well- meaning Ghanaians aimed at resolving the problems of NIB to retain and revive a largely systemic Bank were bluntly ignored. NIBs biggest problem is that it is suffering from capitalization deficit of GHC2.4 billion. However, a casual review of NIBs balance sheet shows that a restructuring of the balance sheet can generate in excess of GHC2.75 billion to wipe of the GHC2.4 billion and leave a free shareholders fund and equity of about GHS350 million towards recapitalization and a total cash injection of GH2.8b. It is therefore puzzling that anybody sitting on this gold mine will attempt to give it out to somebody for peanut. I wish to state here, that some of the proposals that were ignored are still very important today to remedy the situation. These include but are not limited to the following: 1. Sale of NIB's 24% shares in Nestle Ghana acquired at Ghc50 million a long time ago, that were given a conservative value of Ghc500million in 2018. This singular proposal would have generated a risk-free cash of Ghc500million to NIB and provided a realised capital gain of Ghc450 million for recapitalisation. Strangely, this was either ignored or lost on Hon. Ken Ofori Atta, who rather opted to take the shares in Nestle and swap it with a Ghc500 million government bond plus a further Ghc800million government debt as deposit for shares. As it turned out, those bonds have since been impaired through the poor conduct of the Finance Minister in the infamous and unending DDEP consistent with IFRS 9. These actions have clearly weakened NIB further. Secondly, Mr. Kennedy Ofori Atta's refusal to pay contracts that were executed by clients of NIB with loans has led to an initial amount of Ghc 860 million of NIB'S loans being written off from their books.It is clear that NIB has been intentionally run down by both fiscal and regulatory connivance to produce a prey. It is, therefore, not surprising that the current IMF ECF program identifies the resolution of the capitalisation challenges of NIB as a key financial sector deliverable. Unfortunately, it appears to many that, Government is only being consistent in its policies with a certain intent to collapse banks and capture them. The strategy has been to find a solution that have the ultimate effect of collapsing NIB despite its large size, national status and systemic effect it could have, possibly leading to the wiping off of several viable jobs in a country that is struggling to create jobs for its teaming unemployed youths. A country that has created failed policies like NABCO. Against this background, I wish to draw the attention of Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta, to the legal, technical and regulatory flaws in his intended actions in elation to NIB and to offer some proposals for him to consider in resolving the issues to produce a strong and vibrant NIB, insulate the sector form further systemic haemorrhage and restore confidence in the financial sector, retain jobs and stay compliant with performance obligations to the IMF under the ECF Program. LEGAL REGIME Let me first draw Hon Ken Ofori-Atta's attention to the fact that NIB was established by an Act of Parliament called the NATIONAL INVESTMENT BANK Act, 1963 (Act 612) with a clear mandate to help scale up investments and contribute to economic development. As a result, the bank does not operate under the companies code or the new companie's Act. Let this be clear to him first. But as a company whose activities are regulated by the BOG under Act 930, legimate regulatory actions can be taken against NIB under the Act to place it under Administration (section), revocation of licence (Section) and consequentially place it under receivership (section) to resolve it without regard to the Act establishing it. It is getting clear that the government, acting through the BOG, does not intend to pursue this path. This leaves Act 612 as the only appropriate legal option for the government's intended action with regards to NIB. Section 22 of the NIB Act, Act 612 provides guidance on any conduct regarding NIB that has the ultimate effect of liquidation or resolution of NIB, such as acquisition or merger. The liquidation provisions make it clear that any action or actions contemplated with the consequential effect of liquidation of NIB, which action is not in compliance with section 22 of Act 612, is illegal if recourse is not taken to Parliament, and an Act passed by Parliament to that effect and in accordance with directives contained in that Act so passed. The Act further provides that the Bank shall not be placed in liquidation except pursuant to an Act passed and only in the manner as the Act shall prescribe. Clearly, Parliament anticipated that circumstances may require that the life of NIB be terminated and requested that it retain the right to prescribe how it dies. Any action of acquisition that we know has the consequences of liquidation.So, without recourse to parliament for a clear mandate, the said actions will not be in the national interest and, therefore, clearly illegal. Distinguished media personalities here: CONFLICT OF INTEREST is absolutely rife and present here. The Bank of Ghana through its wholly owned financial investment trust is a majority shareholder of ADB and therefore controls ADB with a view to enhancing its returns to improve its comprehensive performance consolidated financial statements. I wish to state that the BOG has been extremely complicit in providing its regulatory forbearance to bring NIB to its knees and now in an unethical and opportunistic position to acquire its own regulated entity. So, who watches the watchman or protects the interest of NIB? It is my considered view that any action relating to NIB that has the potential to benefit BOG is illegal, unethical, and smack of deliberate opportunistic regulatory conduct. As if the conflict-of-interest issues are not enough, their methods also have TECHNICAL AND WORK FLAWS. The considered actions of BoG and the government in respect of NIB only add one more puzzle to their technical ineptitude. Unless there is an ulterior motive that I may not be aware of or perhaps something taught to only a group of people in Yale and Harvard Business Schools. The complexities often introduced into these simple and obviously common- sense finance decisions are mind-boggling. It looks to many that the government and BoG are deliberately making things look more complex than they actually are so they can confuse the average Ghanaian and then loot in the process. Let's take a look at these scenarios: 1. ADB is owned by the state through BOG (64%,) GoG (21%), and GAT (11%) making it a total of 96% ADB with the remaining 4% owned by residual retail investors. The same state owns NIB. As shareholders of NIB you are being asked to bring more money to recapitalise your bank (NIB) but you say you don't have money to recapitalise it but you turn around to tell one of your banks, ADB, to come and buy your other Bank NIB. Effectively, you are the one using your own money to buy a bank that you already own anyway. So, you collect your own money as consideration for sale of your own bank to yourself and wake up the next morning pretending you no longer own the bank. This needless complexity is a senseless smokescreen for thievery by Government and BoG acting together. The question is, will ADB operate both ADB and NIB on one street competing against itself as going concerns? This is the joke of the millennium. These are people who are not even prepared to learn from their embarrassing national disgrace called CBG which they touted as the second biggest bank by branches when they took about 190 branches from 7 banks in 2018 but now has only 114 branches. Where are the rest, the people who worked there and the livelihoods they supported? 2. An analysis of the risk adjusted capital of ADB per the rules of Base II and III show that ADB has capital adequacy issues akin to Asthma. As for NIB, it's problem is well documented, and for the purpose of this illustration, let's call it diabetes. The wisdom of Ken Ofori-Atta and governor Addison is that, asthma and diabetes be added together to produce a healthy child. Who does that? How do you make such a combination without treating them for their individual ailments? Clearly the solution lie in treating them separately, and if you do, they will be so healthy. You don't need to put them together as part of your treatment regime. HERE ARE SOME OF OUR PROPOSED SOLUTIONS 1. Restructure NIB Balance Sheet. The government should restructure the balance sheet of NIB to swap all NIB debts on its balance sheet owed to the government to equity to release it from the excessive debt burden owed to its owner, the Government. This includes the following; a. Government debts in bonds totalling Ghc1.3 billion should be converted to equity to immediately increase the capital of NIB by that amount. b. Following that, NIB's 24% shares in Nestle Ghana, which were swapped for the Ghc 500 million, should be returned to NIB since value in the new NIB shares issuance would be a consideration for the underlying debts. c. The Nestle Shares should be valued and sold to free up the cash equivalent to increase the liquidity of NIB. d. The sale of the NIB shares in Nestle to be retuned would lead to a realised capital gain of about Ghc450million. Coupled with the debt Swap of Ghc1.3 billion, the two actions will inject a realised equity of Ghc1.750 billion and cash increases of about Ghc500 million. 2. Fiscal Support Since 2017, NIB has impaired its loans to the tune of about Ghc1billion, resulting directly from non payments of certificates raised for contractors and other service providers who took facilities from NIB to execute those contracts. These loans have been deemed nonperforming and accordingly impaired and gone against NIB'S surpluses which are already in the negative spiral drive, according to IFRS 9. The government should pay these arrears. It will automatically restore these impairments of Ghc1 billion, increase shareholders equity by Ghc2.750 billion, and cash injection of Ghc1.5 billion, making NIB the strongest and most liquid Bank in Ghana. The bank can sell the resultant bond converted into equity for additional cash of GHC1.3b which will now become investment for the bank. The bank can now generate in excess of GHC2.8b cash. Whilst I appreciate that Government's fiscal wings have been clipped by the mismanagement of Ghana's fiscal risks in the last few years, the government could aggregate certificates of NIB clients and issue a bond to NIB to cover same. Any residual capital issues if any at all, should be addressed by assigning some of the proposed Ghc15 billion Financial Stability Fund to BOG's own Financial Investment Trust to invest in NIB instead of passing through the backdoor to give money to ADB to acquire the mother that gave birth to it. Even in our traditional settings, no man marries the mother because he feels grown up, as big or probably bigger than his mother. It will be an abomination, if not a sacrilege for a son to want to marry his mother. It is very clear that all the complexity introduced into this arrangement and the continuous deliberate haemorrhage of NIB is the last step towards putting the two banks together to sell to themselves through state capture. It is obvious that they will offload BoG and GoG shares to themselves under the disguise of a strategy investor. Unless there are ulterior motives, NIB should not be subjected to this predatory regulatory and Boardroom antics. WE WISH TO THANK YOU ALL FOR COMING. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO ASK. Ghana added to South Africa E-Visa list, see requirements for applying for visa online Zadok Kwame Gyesi Politics Sep - 28 - 2023 , 16:41 Ghana has been added to the E Visa list of South Africa, the South Africa High Commission in Ghana has announced. In a statement dated Thursday, September 28, 2023, the South African High Commission explained that by adding Ghana to the E Visa list, Ghanaian nationals "can apply online for visas to South Africa without visiting the High Commission." The High Commission also urged all Ghanaians who wish to apply for visas to visit www.dha.gov.za to obtain the needed information. The statement further indicated that "normal requirements such as passport details, letter of invitation/proof of accommodation and a bank statement would be verified on arrival at the point of entry." The South African High Commission also urged individuals whose passports have been at the High Commission for more than three months to go for them at the VFS Global Offices. The GFWC Women's Club of Sweetwater County met on September 19. The meeting was held at White Mountain Library. The board members provided a taco/nacho bar for lunch. There wasn't a speaker as there was a lot of catching up to do after three months off from general meetings. We awarded grants to four Western Wyoming Community College students prior to the meeting. The winners are Dahlia Jordon working on Nursing, Emma Curtis working on Business Management, Delaney Gardea also working on Nursing, and Evin Hansen going into Mechanical Engineering. Congratulations and best of luck to all. The members voted to donate $500 to Nutritional services with Sweetwater School District #1 to help pay for meals of children who are unable to pay for their lunches. This check was delivered directly following the meeting to Angela Erramouspe, head of Nutritional Services. We were happy to announce our holiday house for 2023. Carmen and Randy Lakey, owners of CTS, are sharing their beautiful home at 518 Deer Creek in Rock Springs with us this year for the Holiday House Fundraiser Event which occurs on December 1 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and December 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Our raffle drawing will be held on Saturday at 1 p.m. We will have many exciting raffle items again this year. Carmen has chosen Alzheimer Awareness as her charity for 10% of the raffle proceeds to be donated to. Tickets will be available from members beginning November 1 at a cost of $5 each or 6 for $20. They will be sold at the event as well. We will be working hard on crafts and planning our baked goods to have for sale. Children under 12 will be admitted for free others $5 per person. The hostess is planning on having light refreshments and making a gift bag for everyone who attends. We are offering the community a great opportunity to listen to speakers who can share with us how to experience and learn about the outdoors of Wyoming. Presenters for this evening event will be from Wyoming Game and Fish and Wyoming State Parks as well as others. We will tell you about scholarships and sponsorships available through our club to participate in outdoor experiences. This fun informative event will be October 5 at 6 p.m. in the Ferrero Room at the Downtown Rock Springs Library. Light refreshments will be served. We are hoping many in the community will take advantage of this opportunity. Our Environmental chair has set up October 14 at 9 a.m. for trash pick-up at our adopt a highway section at exit 107. We will be collecting non-perishable food at several locations including Larry's Hair Salon, the Mane Place, Joe's Liquor, Downtown Library, White Mountain Library, Sweetwater Library in Green River, and Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy. The food will be collected on September 27 and given to the Soup Kitchen in Rock Springs on September 28. This is for General Federation of Women's Clubs Day of service. Clubs across the country will by fighting to end food insecurity in many ways. Courtesy photo Marcia Volner and Angela Erramouspe We will be doing comfort bags for the Green River Police Department again. These will be given to the therapist and the police officers and given to young people in stressful situations. Our Chairman for Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention encouraged us to participate in a 5k walk-run for Domestic Violence Awareness Month scheduled on October 14 starting at Young at Heart at dusk. Some members will be attending a state fall workshop for GFWCWyoming in Riverton on September 30. We will be taking some food there as well for fighting food insecurity. Members in attendance included Marcia Volner, Susan Arguello, Kimberly Kellum Jennie Malonek, Lynn Mornar, Jacki Allison, Cindy Moore, Betty Jean Carter, Maggie Choate, April Dittman, Leslie Jo Gatti, Lois Hebert, Edna Larsen, Michele Long, Edie Nicholas, Karla Roich, Charlene Stillion and guest now member Karla Thibeault. Ten more people want to join a lawsuit against the superintendent of education and the Guam Education Board over poor health and educational conditions at local public schools. Attorney Dan Somerfleck, representing the parents, announced at a Thursday hearing that the additional plaintiffs would be joining on the condition that their names remain undisclosed. Paola Agostini and Samuel Donato, parents of students with special needs at Agueda Johnston Middle School and Oceanview Middle School, respectively, filed the suit in August, alleging school officials had failed to provide an adequate education for students as required by Guam law. Agostinis child did not receive an education plan specific for their needs, court documents state, while Donatos child developed a rash due to mold at their school. Attorney General Douglas Moylan forwarded the suit to the media shortly after they were filed last month. Somerfleck Thursday told Judge Elyze Iriarte, newly assigned to the case, that parents looking to join the suit wanted to avoid getting the same public exposure. The disclosure of names led to contacts from press asking for contacts, led to my clients names being well known in the community, and they believe theres been a chilling effect, Somerfleck said. The attorney plans to file an amendment under seal to add 10 more plaintiffs. AG could join suit But parents involved in the case wont see the solutions they want for their kids just yet, as the Office of the Attorney General works out whether it will be defending or litigating school officials. The attorney general, appearing Thursday on behalf of the government of Guam, said the AGs office may want to join parents as a plaintiff in the case. The attorney general is empowered by law to enforce the Every Child is Entitled to an Adequate Education Act. The AGs office may want to join Somerfleck, Moylan said, adding, I believe his position has merit. Moylan asked for clarification on whether GovGuam itself, as opposed to each board member and the superintendent as individuals, were being sued. The court would eventually have to wrestle with the issue, Moylan said, as the AGs office was meant to defend GovGuam as an entity, not each individual board member, and did not have the resources to do so either way. Both lawyers from the AGs office who have been assigned to represent school officials have already motioned to withdraw from the case due to conflict of interest. If we move forward, and what if we prevail against the AG? Thats where were headed we would not be in the good graces of the attorney general, and likewise, if we lose the case, our clients would not feel they were well represented, at the direction of the attorney general, said assistant attorney general Fred Nishihira, who is seeking to withdraw along with chief deputy attorney general Joe Guthrie. Attorney Jesse Nassis, counsel for the Guam Department of Education, said the education board has yet to decide whether they want to keep Nishihira and Guthrie on as counsel, and will have to make that decision during an official meeting of the board. Somerfleck, meanwhile, is opposed to the two attorneys withdrawing, and motions for mediation, on the grounds that it will further delay proceedings, and the relief parents are seeking. To be very clear with the court, we want our day in court, Somerfleck said. Parents want the court to order the education board and Education Superintendent Kenneth Swanson to provide an adequate and appropriate education and to submit a plan to fix any issues to the court and parents for approval. They also want an official, or special master, appointed to oversee the school officials and ensure the fixes are carried out. Somerfleck on Thursday argued that a preliminary injunction should be issued to force GDOE to act and address the irreparable harm brought on their students. Iriarte said a date to address the issue of a preliminary injunction would not be set until the issues with who was representing school officials was settled. A hearing for the various motions made was set for Oct. 16, with response set for Oct. 30. Workforce Readiness IBM Commits to Train 2 Million AI Learners for Free by 2026 As part of the 2023 78th General Assembly of the United Nations, IBM announced it will train, for free, 2 million learners in artificial intelligence worldwide within the next three years, building on its existing commitment to skill 30 million learners by 2030. The free program, called IBM SkillsBuild, will use its career-building platforms to partner with universities around the world to develop and make available new generative AI courses, with a significant focus on adult learners in underrepresented communities. A recent IBM study confirmed that executives feel AI and automation skills will "require 40% of their workforce to reskill over the next three years, mostly those in entry-level positions," the company said. SkillsBuild helps high school and college students, adult learners, and faculty develop new skills and gain access to career opportunities. The online platform is customized with practical learning experiences through collaborative global partnerships. In its open version, SkillsBuild offers over 1,000 courses in 20 languages in AI, cybersecurity, data analysis, cloud computing, and other technical areas, as well as in workplace skills. The enhanced partner version goes deeper, with workshops, conversations with IBM mentors, project-based learning, access to IBM software, special support from partners, and career opportunities, IBM said. While free coursework in AI fundamentals, chatbots, and AI ethics is already available, new generative AI coursework includes prompt writing, machine learning, AI customer service, and generative AI in action. Chatbot use will be part of the learning process, as will customized training based on individual preferences and experiences, the company said. "AI skills will be essential to tomorrow's workforce," said Justina Nixon-Saintil, vice president and chief impact officer. "That's why we are investing in AI training, with a commitment to reach 2 million learners in three years, and expanding IBM SkillsBuild to collaborate with universities and nonprofits on new generative AI education for learners all over the world." Visit the SkillsBuild page to learn more about programs tailored for learners, educators, and organizations. Guam Community College on Wednesday recognized 13 individuals in the latest round of pre-apprenticeship boot camp completers. GCCs Ship Repair Boot Camp VII lasted 14 weeks between July 5 and Sept. 23. There was a slight delay in startup due to Typhoon Mawar in May. Participants took classes in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning I, Shielded Metal Arc Welding I, and Heartsavers, First Aid and CPR. They also completed courses in WorkKeys, Work Ethic, and OSHA 10. Guam Shipyard recognized the candidates hard work and commitment for their newly gained skills and knowledge throughout the process and offered the completers jobs. We look forward to more boot camps here at GCC because we definitely need more employees at Guam Shipyard, Guam Shipyard president Matthews Pothen said. You are all going to start Friday morning as employees at GSY. This couldnt be a better transition from school to work. Thank you to the family members. They couldnt have done it without you all. Your support is crucial. Marilyn C. Alpet, a boot camp completer, shared how grateful she was for the boot camp. We have learned so much during the process. We overcame barriers that were thrown our way and still managed to get it done. The BC had us on a rollercoaster ride but it was all worth it, Alpet said. GCC president Mary A. Y. Okada shared the need to fill jobs in the industry. Guam Shipyard sees the demand that is coming, she said. They see the need to increase the capacity for Guam. It is a chicken or an egg thing. We need to provide the talent here on Guam in order for the ships to come, but we need the ships on Guam to identify that we need talent. We are balancing the two requirements right now. Okada said if Guam has the local workforce, they will get more work; theyll get more projects. Economic diversification development here on Guam is only going to increase. That has been the driver for all the boot camps here at GCC, she said. GCC Board of Trustees chairman Frank Arriola urged the completers to take this opportunity to thank your families, the Guam Shipyard team and the amazing team here at GCC for this opportunity. Never take for granted this chance at a very good life and career. These are the moments that our team works so very hard for to fulfill our mission as a leader in career and technical workforce development, he said. The next ship repair boot camp will be announced at a later date. There are several other boot camps in line for later this year. For more information, contact Continuing Education and Workforce Development office at workforce@guamcc.edu or call (671) 735-5640. A bill to extend the lease agreement between the Marianas Yacht Club and the Port Authority of Guam for another 30 years at $100 per year received support during a public hearing on Thursday at the Legislature. Sen. Amanda Shelton introduced Bill 121-37 at the request of the Port Authority of Guams board. Shelton is chairperson of the legislative committee on maritime transportation. Victor Torres, who has represented Guam in the South Pacific Games, Olympic Games and other international competitions, shared his support for the bill and Marianas Yacht Clubs continued partnership. The Marianas Yacht Club has been instrumental in training and developing our local athletes for various competitions, said Torres, one of the over 1,350 continuing members of the club. MYC is a non-profit organization that has provided valuable benefits to the local community. It has done so for over 50 years, which serves as a testament to the longevity of the organization. Marianas Yacht Clubs partnership with the port authority formally goes back to Nov. 14, 1991, the enactment date of their first 30-year lease deal. That agreement expired on Nov. 7, 2021, so the two parties have had to continue their agreement on a month-to-month basis since then. The Marianas Yacht Club is a non-profit organization that has historically promoted community interest and participation in the sport of sailing, Shelton said at the public hearing. Founded in 1969, the MYC provides a safe and well-regulated environment for yachts, kayaks and more. The yacht club provides Red Cross certified sailing instruction programs and other sailing courses for Guams youth and families. Niko Flores, an assistant instructor for Marianas Yacht Club, said MYC has been a community club and helped him create friendships after first not knowing anyone there. I knew next to no one. I was a complete stranger. However, it wasnt long before I knew each other student in my class, and I was friends with everyone of them, said Flores, currently a student at St. Johns. I enjoyed it so much that I later returned as an assistant instructor to help the next group of sailors. The yacht club is community and safety for me. Its where I can go with my friends to practice and relax. Mike Cassidy, commodore of Marianas Yacht Club, said the club provides accessibility and services for other visiting travelers across the region. They can use our clubhouse to shower and use the free Wi-Fi. They can also stay at our facility and re-stock supplies before transiting, Cassidy said. We are also focused on youth instruction. Promoting sailing on Guam is very key to us. Capt. Nicholas Simmons, commander of the U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam, elaborated on the cultural significance behind maintaining Marianas Yacht Clubs operations. The ocean serves as the lifeblood of Guams community, encapsulating our cultural heritage and traditions, Simmons said in his written testimony. MYC is an essential hub for fostering this cultural connection. This lease agreement is a win-win, and I am convinced that its approval will enrich our island communitys cultural fabric and overall well-being. Piti Mayor Jesse Alig voiced support for the approval of the lease, calling Mariana Yacht Club a phenomenal community partner. The programs and events they host are a welcome addition to our communitys vibrant energy, Alig said in his written testimony. As a people rooted in the seafaring culture, it is beneficial for our teens to be introduced to this navigation technique. Guam Memorial Hospital Authority Administrator Lillian Perez-Posadas on Thursday afternoon told senators she will step down before walking out of an oversight hearing on issues that have been plaguing the hospital, from molds to flooding, patient care concerns and $26 million debt to vendors. Speaker Therese Terlaje, health committee chair, adjourned the hearing, adding theres a need for a re-evaluation of the GMH situation which she said looks to be a crisis at this point and to propose new solutions as soon as possible. Perez-Posadas actions at the hearing, according to Adelup, are the result of senators who care more about saying, How can I blame you? than How can I help you? Sen. Telo Taitague, at the hearing, told Perez-Posadas that shes been hospital administrator for five years, and its only getting worse. Taitague then asked, Isnt there a time for you to say, Okay, I cant do it. I need to step down from this job, and allow somebody else to come in to try and help this hospital? Perez-Posadas responded: Senator, thank you for that idea. Yes, I will step down. Yes, I will retire. Ive done my time. Thank you. The hospital administrator then gathered her things and walked out of the Legislatures public hearing room. The governors director of communications, Krystal Paco-San Agustin, said Perez-Posadas has not officially submitted her resignation. For now, GMH continues to operate normally and the Governor is actively speaking with GMH leadership. She will act accordingly going forward, she said. The speaker later said GMH is facing very serious issues, some of them long-standing, some of them new. While it was clear from their presentation that everyone was working hard and GMH was making progress in some areas, including billing, there were not enough solutions to solve the scale of the problems facing GMH today, she said. Prior to leaving the public hearing room, Posadas told senators they are trying to address the many issues at GMH with what they can with the available resources. Truthfully, we can just close that hospital down, but we cant, Posadas said when asked if GMH is in a state of emergency. Sen. Joanne Brown, vice-chair of health committee, said, this administration ran on healthcare, and here we are, probably worse off than in quite a while...This is inexcusable. You dont need us to tell you that. We dont run operations. GMH employees voice concerns Isabel Flores, a certified critical care nurse at GMH, testified that conditions are dire at the hospital and that it will not withstand another typhoon. The state of the hospital is far from good. During the storm, there was widespread flooding, stairwells and elevators turned into waterfalls, ceilings and walls caved in, and now it smells so musty throughout the facility, said Flores, who stayed at GMH for 72 hours straight during the typhoon. Flores advocated for policy and administration changes due to poor conditions even after the influx of funds to battle the pandemic. During the COVID-19 pandemic, GMH received millions of dollars in federal funding, yet why is it that we are worse off than we were ever before? We regularly lack essential materials, like linens and pillows, underpads and wipes to clean patients, said Flores. Our hospital administrators and board of trustees cannot be politically appointed positions. It does not lie with patient care, safety and the overall well-being of the hospital. GMHA needs systemic change. William Eric Lee, a nurse for 23 years, echoed the need for change due to mold issues and a lack of equipment within GMH. Our patients lives are at stake. We use tissue paper by the sink to wipe our patients. Its embarrassing, said Lee, who is also a nursing teacher at Guam Community College. This is not standard practice. Were still years behind the baseline the rest of hospitals are in the U.S. $26M debt Debts are also accumulating within GMHA as they owe over $26 million to over 60 accounts payable as of Sept. 26, according to Yukari Hechanova, chief financial officer of GMHA. Around $13.3 million is owed directly to vendors of supplies while $6.6 million is owed for travel nurses, $4.7 million for contractors and around $2.2 million for utilities. Senators introduced Bill 164-37 to provide emergency funding to GMH. Bill 164-37 (LS) will be able to dedicate and provide much needed money to GMH for the payments, repairs, and cleaning needed so that its focus can be on healthcare, said Sen. Frank Blas in a letter to Sen. Joe San Agustin. The bill would allocate all unappropriated audited excess funds from fiscal 2022 and 2023 to GMH. A public hearing has not yet been announced for the bill. This bills funding source already has other appropriations set in the budget law for fiscal 2024, including retirees additional allowances, salary adjustments for University of Guam faculty and additional funding for operations of the Guam Department of Education. Terlaje, in a statement, said it was also clear that money was still available to GMH but is not necessarily the sole solution. The speaker said the hearing was adjourned after consultation with her colleagues and shes looking to the hospital administration, the governor, and the lieutenant governor, to re-evaluate the situation. The Legislature will work together to implement any statutory changes necessary, she added. The government of Guam and federal agencies on island are bracing for a possible shutdown of the U.S. government, but the full effects arent yet known. A shutdown will happen if members of Congress cant agree on a budget by midnight on Sunday in Washington, D.C. or 2 p.m. Guam time that day. Though Republicans and Democrats in the Senate have come to a compromise to fund the government until mid-November, theres no agreement yet in the House, the Associated Press reports. An assessment of the full impact of the shutdown is ongoing at the Office of the Governor, spokesperson Krystal Paco-San Agustin told the Pacific Daily News, but most federal programs that Guam gets money for have cash to keep operating through a temporary shutdown. History has taught us, however, that federal shutdowns most immediately impact certain programs within the National Guard, Public Health, and Guam Behavioral Health. But the full impacts of a partial federal shutdown cant be 100% known just yet, she said. A shutdown between 2018 and 2019 may have delayed $11.6 million, PDN files show. Base shops will open In the event of a shutdown, commissary and exchange services located at military installations on Guam will stay open, with regular operating hours, according to Joint Region Marianas deputy public affairs officer Catherine Norton. Updates will be provided through JRM social media pages. Mission critical activities, emergency services, and other excepted activities to sustain the military fleet will continue in the event of a shutdown. Airport, Guardsmen, Weather service A. B. Won Pat International Airport deferred questions about possible travel delays to the U.S. Transpiration Security Agency and Customs and Border Patrol. Comment from customs was not available as of press time. Things are still speculative at the moment with Congress still in session, said Lorie Dankers, TSA spokesperson for the region. She deferred all specific inquiries to the White House Office of Management and Budget. Guam National Guard spokesperson Mark Scott said that Guard leadership would be meeting Friday morning to discuss the full impact of a shutdown. People will still be able to check the weather report, said Landon Aydlett, warning coordination meteorologist for National Weather Service. NWS will be impacted by the shutdown, but Aydlett said he could not share the details. Our mission will continue. And it will be a seamless process because our forecast watches warnings and advisories for protection of life and property, he said. Federal parks, FEMA In past shutdowns, Guam National Wildlife Refuge at Ritidian has been closed due to lack of staff funding, PDN files show. The refuge is already closed, and a voice recording plays when the refuge is called indicating damage from Typhoon Mawar is the cause. The War in the Pacific National Historical Parks have reduced services but remained open in the past. National Park Service staff at the T. Stell Newman Visitor Center did not have information about the effects of the shutdown on Thursday. No comment was available from the Federal Emergency Management Authority about whether an impasse on federal funding would impact payouts of disaster grants or rental relief for people recovering from Mawar. The Washington Post reported that FEMA is facing issues funding large, long-term disaster recovery projects in several states and Puerto Rico already. GovGuam is seeking millions worth of reimbursements from FEMA for Mawar-related expenses. GTA has announced the finalists and overall winners for its 2023-2024 Youth Leader program, which since 2019 has been providing opportunities for young leaders who excel in academics and make positive contributions to their community. We commend our young leaders not only for their outstanding academic achievements but also for their unwavering dedication to driving positive change within our community, Nate Denight, GTAs vice president of product and marketing, said in a statement. Denight said these young leaders inspiring actions fuel our commitment to empower our youth, who, in turn, serve as sources of motivation among their peers. Finalists Each finalist received a premium smartphone and a GTA mobile plan for the academic year. Amara David Senior, Academy of Our Lady of Guam Sydney Packbier Junior, St. Johns School Hailey Pangelinan Junior, Simon Sanchez High School Lysez Santos Senior, Tiyan High School Anthony Gregoire Senior, Harvest Christian Academy Ricardo Leon Guerrero II Senior, Notre Dame High School Kyan Toh Junior, Father Duenas Memorial School Victoria Rapadas Senior, Academy of Our Lady of Guam 2023-2024 overall male and female winners In addition to the premium smartphone and a GTA mobile plan for the academic year, each overall winner received a $1,000 cash scholarship and 160,000 United Airline miles. Mia Lee Junior, St. Johns School Andrew Kang Junior, John F. Kennedy High School GTA is Guams longest-serving telecom provider. The awards ceremony took place on Sept. 26 at the GTA Experience Center in Tamuning to honor the newest Youth Leader cohort. The Guam Raceway Federation is asking the government for a two-year interim deal that would allow them to continue the maintenance and operation of the now-vacated raceway in Yigo. Newly minted racing federation leadership shared the proposal with members of the CHamoru Land Trust Commission during a recent meeting. But according to CLTCs legal counsel, going straight into a new commercial lease with the racing federation is a no go. The racing federation in February was evicted after over 20 years at the raceway property, a 250-acre parcel that belongs to CLTC, over issues involving payment of rent, royalties, and an alleged illegal mining operation. Jennifer Crisostomo Camacho, speaking on behalf of her father, Guam Raceway Federation board member Joey Crisostomo, told CLTC commissioners at a Sept. 21 meeting that the two-year interim lease would give the federation an opportunity to clean up operations and keep activities running while a final deal on the raceway property is being worked out. Just getting a new board at the helm of the racing federation was one step taken towards addressing CLTCs concerns, Camacho said. A formal financial turnover between the old federation board and new members had occurred, and an audit of finances was underway. What you are going to see is that this board is committed to transparency, communication, strict management, safety first, and a positive working relationship with the CLTC, Camacho said, adding that the federation was hopeful to get the deal in place by Oct. 1. The raceway property has now been vacant for over a month, new federation board member Jay Jones, senior vice president of Triple J Enterprises, said. Were worried about things falling into disrepair, about people coming from the outside and stealing copper or all of the progress weve made over the years with the facilities, taking a giant step backwards and the jungle reclaiming the tracks, he said. With regard to the alleged mining activity and the minerals extracted from the property, another new federation board member, Jeff Jones, said, I think were all in the dark. He is president of Triple J. With the raceway shut down, dragsters have already taken to racing in the streets, said Tina Conquer, a new federation board member who ran the drag operations when the raceway was opened. Like I said, I have 728 registered drag racers. So we dont want 720 drag racers out in the streets, Conquer said, adding that racers were getting itchy feet. CLTC legal counsel, however, advised commissioners to move forward with putting the raceway property, which has already been designated as commercial, out to bid, Land Trust Administrator Alice Taijeron told the board. With regard to the GRF, and the attempt to commercial license and or lease, it is a no go, Taijeron said. CLTC was authorized to lease the property for up to 50 years through Public Law 38-142 back in 2018. The racing federation got the right of first refusal on the lease opportunity, but was supposed to finalize a lease within 180 days of the passage of that law. Land Trust Commissioner Earl Garrido, during the recent meeting with the federation, said the federations prior leadership had never finalized the proposal for a 50-year lease on the property. The Guam Racing Federations lease on the property expired in 2018, and was extended on a month-to-month basis up until its recent eviction. If the property goes out to bid, GRF would have to compete for the 50-year deal on the property. New federation member Mike Limtiaco of Pacific Trucking asked whether the the groups use of the property could be granted not on a commercial basis, but as a public use facility. Similar deals had been worked out with other Land Trust properties, Limtiaco said, and the raceway was home to various activities, including training for government of Guam and military personnel. Taijeron said such a deal may require the involvement of the Department of Parks and Recreation, and more meetings with that agency may be needed. Commissioners would have to have a discussion about that, before any progress could be made, she added. The Office of the Attorney General will seek life in prison without the possibility of parole for a 40-year-old man who was found guilty Thursday of sexually assaulting a child under the age of 14. Ricky Santos Cruz was convicted of four counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct as a first-degree felony, each with the special allegation of committing a crime against a vulnerable victim. In 2021, the girl reported that she had been sexually assaulted by Cruz several years earlier, when she was in the fourth grade, according to charging documents. When Cruz was asked by police at the time if he knew why he was being questioned, he said, For the things I did in the past, according to the complaint. He reportedly told police he massaged the girls vagina and made her massage his penis. The jury returned guilty verdicts within an hour of beginning deliberations. Cruz is facing a maximum sentence of 40 years imprisonment for the four first-degree felony convictions, plus an additional 100 years imprisonment for the four special allegations, according to a news release from Attorney General Douglas Moylan. Pedophiles inflict one of the most heinous crimes upon our children, scaring them for life with injuries that never really heal, Moylan said in the release. They rob the innocence of childhood from these most vulnerable persons in our homes. This crime though tragic, is yet another victory by this tough on crime AGs office, which is committed to prosecuting pedophiles to the fullest extent of our laws. Judge John C. Terlaje presided over the trial, and Assistant Chief Prosecutor Grant Olan prosecuted the case. The minor victim has been waiting more than two years for justice, and that day finally arrived today, Moylan stated. In his collection you can find several photos of him arranging human bones and placing skulls on latte to create engaging pictures which he then publicly disseminated to get media attention for his work. Quote Haiti - FLASH : 12 countries have confirmed their participation in an intervention mission in Haiti Antigua and Barbuda confirmed on September 26, 2023 its intention to deploy soldiers from the Antigua and Barbuda Defense Force (ABDF) to support the efforts of the multinational intervention mission (pending authorization of the UN Security Council), aimed at restoring peace and stability in Haiti. Currently, 12 countries have confirmed their participation in the multinational mission in Haiti : Kenya, Bahamas, Jamaica, Antigua and Barbuda, Italy, Spain , Mongolia, Senegal, Belize, Suriname, Guatemala and Peru. Let's remember that Kenya is preparing to send 1,000 men in this mission to support the Haitian National Police (PNH) against armed gangs and restore security in Haiti. Although there is a firm commitment from Antigua and Barbuda, the Prime Minister's Office said "there was no determination at this point on how many members of the [ABDF] will be dispatched to Haiti". However, the Office of the PM indicated that Prime Minister Gaston Browne is committed to finding a solution to the problems facing Haiti. Also read about the possible international force led by Keny a: https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40598-haiti-security-kenyan-police-take-french-lessons.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40593-haiti-crisis-spain-reiterates-its-participation-in-a-multinational-intervention-mission-in-haiti.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40588-haiti-flash-the-united-states-and-kenya-sign-a-defense-agreement-before-possible-deployment-in-haiti.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40568-haiti-un-kenya-asks-world-not-to-leave-haiti-behind.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40566-haiti-un-high-level-meeting-on-the-establishment-of-a-multinational-intervention-mission.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40549-haiti-politic-haiti-and-kenya-establish-diplomatic-relations.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40361-haiti-news-zapping.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40333-haiti-pnh-pm-back-on-the-working-day-with-the-kenyan-delegation.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40315-haiti-flash-first-meetings-with-the-kenyan-delegation.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40269-haiti-flash-confirmation-of-american-commitment-in-support-of-the-intervention-in-haiti.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40201-haiti-crisis-why-kenya-have-the-support-of-the-usa-canada-and-france.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40187-haiti-news-zapping.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40184-haiti-politic-declaration-on-the-multinational-force-to-support-haiti.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40175-haiti-crisis-to-date-5-countries-are-involved-in-the-international-intervention-in-haiti.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40173-haiti-flash-jamaica-is-preparing-to-send-troops-to-haiti.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40165-haiti-un-flash-the-usa-is-preparing-a-resolution-to-authorize-an-intervention-in-haiti-led-by-kenya.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40161-haiti-flash-the-united-states-congratulates-kenya-and-pledges-to-support-the-intervention.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40157-haiti-flash-the-bahamas-promise-to-join-kenya-in-the-international-intervention-force.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40149-haiti-un-flash-antonio-guterres-urges-the-states-of-the-region-to-join-kenya.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40141-haiti-flash-first-reactions-to-kenya-s-announcement-to-support-the-pnh.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40134-haiti-flash-kenya-agrees-to-deploy-1-000-police-officers-in-haiti.html SL HaitiLibre Haiti - Exodus: More than 61,000 Haitians back to Haiti since the border closed More than 61,000 Haitians returned to Haiti, voluntarily or repatriated, after 12 days of total closure of the border between the Dominican Republic and Haiti according to statistics from the Specialized Land Border Security Corps (CESFRONT). The CESFRONT indicated that the border remains hermetically closed, as ordered by President Abinader, and that the Haitians, far from making efforts to enter Dominican territory, leave it every day recalling that "no one has a ban on leaving the country". A source at the highest level of CESFRONT indicated that voluntary returns were carried out through both formal and informal procedures, emphasizing that The greatest exodus is taking place through Dajabon Should be noted that to this figure is added 49,540 Haitians returned to Haiti in August 2023, a total of more than 100,000 returned to Haiti... S/ iciHaiti Haiti - DR : The Dominican border will never be the same again dixit Abinader President Luis Abinader regarding the conflict between the Dominican Republic and Haiti, due to the construction of an irrigation canal in Haiti with water intake on the Massacre River, reiterated during his weekly press conference, that the Dominican Government does not seek or want any type of conflict with Haiti, "We neither sought nor wanted this conflict, but it was presented to us and we had to act [...] there was no other alternative to maintain national security". He stressed that the closure of the maritime, air and land border was for some, an "arbitrary and drastic" measure, but he defended it and described it as "necessary". Abinader believes that Haiti should have another way of acting with the Dominicans, because of the solidarity that the Dominican Republic maintains with the neighboring country and "which has supported Haiti so much [...]" Concerning the place at the dialogue table, he declared that his Government remains "open to dialogue" with Haiti to see how water is distributed equitably" and address the question of the construction of the canal but he reiterated that so that this happens, Haiti must first suspend its work. Abinader said he would consider relaxing some of the measures against Haiti (without specifying which ones) in the coming weeks "After putting the La Vigia canal urgently in service. In two or three weeks we will see the possibility of relaxing certain measures. I'll tell you from now on, the Dominican border will never be the same. It will never be the same again depending on these events but also the situations that will arise in Haiti." S/ HaitiLibre Haiti - News : Zapping... Mirebalais : The Substitute of the Government Commissioner assassinated The Ministry of Justice once again mourns the disappearance of one of its members, in this case Me Quebex Jen, Substitute for the Government Commissioner at the Prosecutor's Office of the Court of First Instance of Mirebalais cowardly murdered at his home in Plaine by armed individuals unidentified on September 27, 2023. The Ministry will take all measures to shed light on this assassination and asks the family of Magistrate Jean, his loved ones as well as the entire Judiciary to receive its sincere condolences. Mirebalais : 4 bandits killed As part of the deployment of the Haitian National Police (PNH) in the commune of Mirebalais, 4 bandits were fatally injured during exchanges of fire with the police. Several Taiwanese T65 assault rifles were seized. Waiting of the Head of BINUH "Haitians need to return to a situation where they can live without fear of being murdered, displaced, kidnapped or raped," declared in New York Maria Isabel Salvador, Special Representative of the Secretary General for Haiti and Head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) during the meeting on the urgent security situation in Haiti. "I sincerely hope that more countries, particularly in the region, will contribute to the Security Support Mission, and that Haiti will find a response to its request as soon as possible." "Political dialogue must be strengthened, and I call on all actors to give priority to Haiti to emerge from this prolonged political crisis." Port-de-Paix : 2 kidnappers arrested Chenet Olisse (26 years old) and Fedner Merice, (31 years old) alias "Bel Bos" were arrested during a police intervention carried out at Rue Dumarsais Estime in Port-de-Paix (North-West Department). These individuals are accused of criminal conspiracy and complicity in cases of kidnapping for ransom in Ti Bois d'Homme, an area located in the commune of Gros-Morne. Health : The European Union alongside the Haitians The European Union is collaborating with more than a dozen partners, notably within the framework of the Multisectoral Food and Nutritional Security Program (PMSAN), to improve the quality of preventive and curative nutrition services in Haiti. The goal is to ensure that every Haitian has access to healthy food and appropriate health care, for a future where no one is left behind. 10 years of the PoliTour "I wish a happy anniversary to the PoliTour which is today celebrating its 10th year of existence. Created within the PNH at the request of the Ministry of Tourism, to welcome, protect, inform and advise visitors, the Politour constitutes a pillar in our tourist universe and which deserves to be supported, equipped and reinforced in skills to continue to fully play its role," Acting Prime Minister Ariel Henry. HL/ HaitiLibre Published on 2023/09/27 | Source New posters added for the upcoming Korean movie "Welcome to Bongtaeri" (2020) Advertisement Directed by Park Jung-rye With Oh Seung-hoon, Kim Yoon-hye, Lee Sang-hee-VI, Lee Shin-seong, Kim Shin-kwang, Kim Ja-young,... Synopsis A delightful, fantasy, romantic comedy film featuring 'Il-woo' who became a 'fake natural person' and Bong-sook who became a 'fake farmer' in Bongtaeri, the dead end of life. Thinking that 'a home of one's own' and 'stable and happy life' go together, Il-woo goes to the mountainous valley called Bongtaeri for the first time to save a failing pharmaceutical company and get 200% of his annual salary, in turn becoming a 'fake natural person'. Bong-sook's parents, on the other hand, declared that their economic aid will be suspended so to achieve their dreams, Bong-sook becomes a 'fake farmer' in Bongtaeri where her maternal grandfather lives. Release date in Korea : 2023/10/11 This increase in temperature is set to have significant and far-reaching impacts on the region's nature and livelihoods. A recent temperature analysis focused on the Lapland regions of Norway, Sweden, and Finland has revealed that, with current climate measures in place, Lapland could warm by 23 degrees from the present state within the next 50 years, equating to 45 degrees compared to pre-industrial times. Changes will be observed in various ecosystems as permafrost thaws, palsa mires disappear, and mountain birch forests in many areas transform into secondary fell heaths and pine forests. Arctic nature will green as open areas become bushy and grassy. Northern animal species will face further endangerment, and some may even face extinction. Currently, nearly 40 percent of the species inhabiting open fells are already classified as endangered. The plight of these species is compounded by the darkening and eutrophication of waters, as well as the spread of invasive and alien species like foxes, Arctic char, and giant hogweed in the region. Winters in Lapland will start later and become milder, which will pose challenges to several livelihoods, including reindeer herding, nature tourism, and construction. These changes are projected to occur within a single human generation. The temperature in the area will rise by 45 degrees with current climate measures. The Finnish Environment Institute coordinated the analysis that provided insights into the warming of Tunturi-Lapland. Compared to pre-industrial times, Tunturi-Lapland has already warmed by approximately two degrees. Even if most countries reasonably follow the emission reduction targets of the Paris Agreement, the temperature in Tunturi-Lapland will increase by an additional 23 degrees over the next 50 years. This warming forecast is based on the assumption that countries will implement their promised emission reduction commitments without further tightening. However, if greenhouse gas emissions are left unchecked, temperatures in Lapland could rise by almost 7 degrees compared to pre-industrial times. It is possible to limit the temperature increase to 34 degrees if all countries globally implement new, stringent, and comprehensive restrictions on energy production, transportation, construction, food production, and consumption. The knowledge of climate change impacts has been compiled into a single location. The analysis was conducted in preparation for the "Through the Eyes of the Fell Hawk" virtual photo exhibition, which comprehensively showcases the impacts of climate change on Northern Norway, Sweden, and Finland's Lapland regions. The exhibition combines striking photographic art with scientific knowledge to illustrate how climate change affects the northern area's nature, livelihoods, and the lives of local people. The exhibition can also be used as an educational resource. The physical version of the exhibition will tour Finland, Sweden, and Norway from 2023 to 2026. In Finland, the exhibition will be first showcased at Joensuu Craft Block, with its grand opening scheduled for October 20, 2023. HT Its a known fact that the costs of well-being services counties will increase during this and next electoral term, and its been calculated that [the increase] will be at least three billion euros this electoral term, she stated on the topical affairs show. FINNISH social and health care services are not as well funded and are, in many respects, not as good as in other parts of the EU, Minister of Social Affairs and Health Kaisa Juuso (PS) viewed on YLE A-studio on Tuesday. The government has pledged to commit at least three billion euros for compensating for the projected rise in costs during this term, she reminded. The government, however, is simultaneously urging the 21 counties to rationalise their operations in a way that balances their budgets by the end of 2026. Calculations by the Ministry of Finance suggest that the counties will have a combined budget deficit of 1.2 billion euros in 2023. Santeri Seppala, the director of the well-being services county of Southern Savonia, told the public broadcasting company that counties have asked for additional time to patch up their deficits, adding that the tight timetable is the primary reason for the financial woes. Three years is way too short a time period. The best measure for the despair would be to extend the time window, he argued. Juuso said the government has had discussions about the situation but does not consider an extension necessary at this stage. Were monitoring the situation closely, she assured. Markku Pekurinen, a professor emeritus at the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), reminded on A-studio that Finland is spending less on elderly care and special healthcare than the EU average. Denmark, Norway and Sweden, for example, are all spending more, relative to the gross domestic product, on health care than Finland. For us to reach the Nordic level, wed have to invest many billions in social and health care, he stated. Aleksi Teivainen HT Last week, 98-year-old Yaroslav Hunka received recognition in the Canadian House of Commons. He was introduced by House Speaker Anthony Rota during an event with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Hunka was praised as a hero of both Ukrainian and Canadian descent, having fought against the Russians in the Second World War. Driven by russophobia and support for Ukraine, the entire parliament, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, offered Hunka two heartfelt standing ovations. Zelensky also raised his fist in the air in solidarity with Hunka. None of the 338 Members of Parliament paused to consider that Russia was a significant ally in the Second World War. If someone had fought against the Russians, it would imply alignment with the Nazis. Among those applauding was the German Ambassador to Canada. It soon came to light that Hunka had served in the 14th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS, a Ukrainian unit formed by the Nazi regime in 1943. This division is notoriously known for its mass murders and committing severe atrocities against Jews and Poles on the Eastern Front during the war. Realizing the gravity of the error, Speaker Anthony Rota tendered his resignation, underlining that neither his fellow parliamentarians nor the Ukrainian delegation had prior knowledge of his intentions or remarks. Trudeau, who initially labeled the event as merely "embarrassing," was later more forthright, offering "parliament's unreserved apologies for what happened on Friday." However, Trudeau stopped short of blaming Russians and warned about Russian propaganda. Even though the speaker was thrown to the wolves, it has been reported that Trudeau himself had met with Hunka before he was presented to the parliament. Rota tried to persuade the parliament to remove all traces of the event from public records. Trudeau's acknowledgment of the episode emphasized its severe implications, particularly for Jewish, Polish, Roma, and LGBTQI communities. He remarked, It was a horrendous violation of the memory of the millions of people who died in the Holocaust. While Trudeau claimed ignorance of Hunka's association with the Nazi unit, some argue that Rota's reference to a Ukrainian fighting Russians during WWII inherently suggests alignment with Nazi Germany, as this is historically accurate. The event attracted a vast spectrum of condemnation. Reactions ranged from Jewish groups like the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center, who highlighted the brutality and malice of Hunka's wartime unit, to countries like Russia and Poland, which decried the recognition. Poland even mulled over extraditing Hunka in the aftermath of the revelation. Michael Mostyn, CEO of the Jewish human rights group B'nai Brith Canada, elucidated the broader concern, pointing to a lack of awareness in Canada regarding Nazi collaborators who migrated to the country. Opposition figures like Pierre Poilievre emphasized Trudeau's responsibility in the debacle, underscoring the lasting damage to Canada's international reputation. The revelation about Hunka's Nazi background was first made by George Galloway in his Mother of All Talk Shows channel. HT Recently, staff members from the New Era Civilization Practice Center in Fuyang City, Anhui Province, guided students in making mooncakes at the activity center. To familiarize students with China's outstanding traditional culture, the center organized the "Our Festival, Spiritual Home" event to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival. Under the guidance of the staff, students learned to make mooncakes, allowing them to experience and share the joy of the festival while gaining insights into Chinese traditional culture through practical activities. The students of Yunquan Primary School in Funan County showcased their freshly made mooncakes at the New Era Civilization Practice Center. The students of Yunquan Primary School in Funan County showcased their freshly made mooncakes at the New Era Civilization Practice Center. Source: anhuinews.com In the ever-evolving landscape of cryptocurrencies in India, there are individuals who have risen to become household names. These crypto personalities have made significant contributions to the industry and garnered widespread recognition. In this article, we delve into the lives and achievements of India's most famous crypto personalities, including the 10 best in the business. Introduction Cryptocurrency has gained immense popularity in India over the past few years. As the market continues to evolve, so do the individuals who lead the charge. From visionary entrepreneurs to influential thought leaders, India boasts a diverse array of crypto personalities who have made their mark on the global stage. Lets know the most Famous Crypto Personalities in India: Certainly, here is a list of the names and their respective titles or areas of expertise: 1. Leading Regulatory Initiatives 2. Lavish Choudhary: Crypto Entrepreneur 3. Abhyudoy Das: Top Expertise in Cryptocurrency and Blockchain 4. Nischal Shetty: Crypto Exchange Hero 5. Sumit Gupta: CEO of CoinDCX 6. Ashish Singhal: Founder and CEO of CoinSwitch Kuber 7. Vani Kola: Venture Capitalist and Crypto Supporter 8. Vinay Chandra Lal: Leading Listing Advisor 9. Balaji Srinivasan: Serial Entrepreneur and Investor 10. Naval Ravikant: CEO of AngelList and Angel Investor These individuals have made significant contributions to the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry in various capacities. 1. Leading Regulatory Initiatives India's renowned figures are undeniably one of the most recognized in the Indian crypto scene. Her introduction of the Crypto Tax system in India marked a pivotal moment in crypto regulation. She is actively working towards facilitating intercountry regulations on crypto, as highlighted during her participation in the discussions. 2. Lavish Choudhary: Crypto Entrepreneur Lavish Choudhary, a prominent name in Indian entrepreneurship, is renowned for founding TLC Token. His recent sponsorship of the Real Kabaddi League brought him into the limelight. Besides his entrepreneurial endeavors, Choudhary has made significant contributions to the crypto industry. 3. Abhyudoy Das: Top Expertise in Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Abhyudoy Das, currently the Country leader and Senior Communications of Bybit for India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, brings over 7 years of experience in cryptocurrency and Blockchain technology. His advisory roles with global crypto startups, including Ecoin, demonstrate his profound knowledge and impact in the crypto sphere. He is often known as the Crypto Marketing Mastermind in the global cryptocurrency ecosystem. 4. Nischal Shetty: Crypto Exchange Hero Nischal Shetty's journey in crypto space began with mining in 2009. He has since become the proud owner of a prominent crypto exchange platform, known to all crypto enthusiasts. Nischal is also the Co-founder of Shardeum. 5. Sumit Gupta: CEO of CoinDCX Sumit Gupta, CEO and co-founder of CoinDCX, manages one of India's largest crypto exchange platforms. He advocates for technological adoption to simplify daily life. His focus on blockchain technology and its potential to enhance the economic system aligns with his commitment to advancing the crypto industry. 6. Ashish Singhal: Founder and CEO of CoinSwitch Kuber Ashish Singhal's entrepreneurial journey led to the creation of CoinSwitch Kuber, a platform developed to assist users in trading crypto at optimal prices. In 2021, CoinSwitch achieved unicorn status following a significant funding round. Ashish's dedication to user-friendly crypto solutions contributed to this remarkable achievement. 7. Vani Kola: Venture Capitalist and Crypto Supporter Vani Kola, a renowned Indian venture capitalist, founded Kalaari Capital, an early-stage venture capital firm. Recognized as one of the most powerful women in Indian business by Fortune India in 2014, she actively supports and invests in the crypto space. 8.Vinay Chandra Lal: Leading Listing Advisor Vinay Chandra Lal, the founder of "The Crypto Launchpad," is renowned for his exceptional expertise in guiding emerging crypto startups through incubation and facilitating their listing on prominent cryptocurrency exchanges. His advisory role extends to multiple esteemed crypto projects, including Syscoin and TomTomCoin, where he has played a pivotal role in their success. 9. Balaji Srinivasan: Serial Entrepreneur and Investor Balaji Srinivasan is known for co-founding and investing in numerous successful ventures. His roles at Coinbase and Andreessen Horowitz highlight his contributions to the crypto industry. 10. Naval Ravikant: CEO of AngelList and Angel Investor Naval Ravikant, CEO, and co-founder of AngelList, is a prominent angel investor who has supported companies like Twitter, Uber, and Wanelo. His influence extends to the crypto sphere. Conclusion: These notable individuals exemplify India's diverse and dynamic crypto landscape, each contributing significantly to its growth and development. Whether through regulatory initiatives, entrepreneurial endeavors, or advisory roles, their impact resonates throughout the crypto community. 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 contents of the article/advertisement and/or views expressed herein. The reader is further advised that Crypto products and NFTs are unregulated and can be highly risky. There may be no regulatory recourse for any loss from such transactions. 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 views, opinions, announcements, declarations, affirmations etc., stated/featured in same. The decision to read hereinafter is purely a matter of choice and shall be construed as an express undertaking/guarantee in favour of Hindustan Times of being absolved from any/ all potential legal action, or enforceable claims. The content may be for information and awareness purposes and does not constitute a financial advice. 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! Krishan Rattan, a distinguished partner at Mount Row, has been at the forefront of discussions surrounding India's transformation. His recent keynote address at the esteemed Milken Asia Summit not only showcased Krishan Rattan's profound insights but also highlighted his unwavering dedication to shaping the trajectory of India's future. Rattan's insights and vision align seamlessly with Mount Row's ambitious pledge to spearhead the development of 1000 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy capacity. This commitment not only embodies the spirit of sustainability but also resonates with the visionary goals set by the Modi government for India in 2030. Furthermore, Mount Row's dedication to renewable energy extends beyond mere rhetoric. Their involvement in powering the Indian Biofuel Alliance, a significant initiative announced at the G20, exemplifies their tangible contributions to global sustainability efforts. Mount Row is taking concrete steps to turn its renewable energy commitment into a reality. This collaborative effort serves as a promising starting point and a testament to their mission to expand these initiatives across various regions of India, ultimately driving India towards a greener and more sustainable future under Krishan Rattan's leadership. 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! India, 28th September 2023: Tver, Russia, In a surprising turn of events, Prof. S. K. Washim, the Chairman of Rus Education, has thrown his hat into the ring for the highly coveted position of Chancellor (Rector) at Tver State Medical University (TSMU). This unexpected nomination has sent shockwaves through the academic community, as TSMU had recently announced elections for the position, and until now, no candidate, including the current sitting rector, had filed a nomination. Prof. Washim's candidacy has raised eyebrows not only for its unexpectedness but also for his remarkable qualifications and extensive experience within the realm of higher education. His nomination has brought an air of excitement and anticipation to the upcoming election. With a doctorate in medical sciences and the prestigious title of Professor, Prof. S. K. Washim possesses all the requisite qualifications for the position of Chancellor at Tver State Medical University. Furthermore, his educational journey has a unique connection to TSMU, having earned his own degree from the institution. Prof. S. K. Washim possesses all the requisite qualifications for the position of Chancellor at Tver State Medical University. Prof. Washim's ties to the university run deep, spanning over a quarter-century of dedicated service. His multifaceted career at TSMU has seen him serve in various key roles, including Deputy Dean for Foreign Students, Assistant to the Vice Chancellor for Foreign Affairs, and as a distinguished professor in the Department of Public Health and Social Medicine. During his tenure, Prof. Washim has consistently demonstrated a commitment to the university's values of academic excellence, international collaboration, and student welfare. His expertise in international affairs, coupled with his extensive involvement in fostering a welcoming environment for foreign students, has earned him a strong reputation not only within TSMU but also in the global academic community. Perhaps what has generated the most buzz is Prof. S. K. Washim's standing as the crowd favorite in the race for the position of Rector. With his remarkable qualifications, deep-rooted connection to the institution, and a track record of exemplary service, many within the university community and beyond are rallying behind his candidacy. The upcoming elections for the position of Chancellor (Rector) at Tver State Medical University promise to be an intriguing and closely watched affair. Prof. S. K. Washim's surprising entry into the race has added an element of uncertainty, making this election one of the most anticipated events in the institution's recent history. As the academic community eagerly awaits the outcome, it remains to be seen whether Prof. Washim's nomination will culminate in a changing of the guard at TSMU or somebody else will put forth their candidacy in response to this new development. 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! Bengaluru traffic police issued a fresh traffic advisory on Wednesday amid Eid celebrations, listing diversions, restrictions, alternate routes and timings. Cops said processions are set to be taken on between 3pm and 9pm today and large gatherings are expected. Eid-Milad-un-Nabi procession. (Anil Maurya/HT Photo/Representational) This comes after unprecedented traffic snarls in the city yesterday, as residents headed out for the long weekend, with Eid Milad today, a state-wide bandh on Friday and Gandhi Jayanti on Monday. READ | Shocking visuals of Bengaluru traffic holdup on ORR: Commuters stuck for hours ahead of long weekend In view of Eid-Milad procession in the limits of Ulsoor Gate Traffic Police Station, on 28.09.2023 from 3.00 pm to 9.00 pm, a large number of people are expected to gather at YMCA ground, Nrupathunga road. In order to ensure free flow of traffic, the following traffic arrangements have been made. The following roads need to be avoided by road users and the alternative routes have been suggested, cops wrote on social media site X. Here are the roads to be avoided: Nrupathunga Road Dr B R Ambedkar Road Nayanadanahalli Junction Kimko Junction Bapuji Nagar Market Circle Movement of vehicles is restricted in the following roads: From Nagawara junction to Pottery circle road. Nethaji circle towards Pottery circle. Haines road from Lazar road and M.M. road. H.M. road from KEB junction to Hall road. Parking is restricted on both sides of the following roads: Nagawara Junction to Pottery Circle Govindapura Junction to Govindapura L&O Police Station HBR Layout Sidddappa Reddy Junction to Narendra Tent Junction Nethaji junction to Haines junction Haines junction to New Bamboo Bazar junction Haines junction to Haj camp Lazar road to Wheelers road Thoms Cafe junction Traffic police also listed alternative routes and diversions to follow and requested the public to co-operate. 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! Bengaluru traffic police seized a two-wheeler which has a total of 99 pending challans against it and even detained the vehicle owner. An FIR was registered against the owner, followed by the cancellation of driving license. Bike with 99 pending challans detained in Bengaluru, FIR filed on owner. Also Read - Bengaluru man orders pizza while stuck in traffic, gets delivered in car. Watch In an X post, Bengaluru traffic DCP wrote, A two-wheeler Reg no KA05EM 1946 , having 99 traffic violations with 56000 fine has been detained, a case has also been registered against the owner in Mico Layout traffic PS Crime No 181/23 U/S 279 IPC r/w 184 IMV act. Karnatakas additional director general of police (traffic and safety) Alok Kumar lauded the police officials for catching the accused. He wrote, Good job @DCPTrSouth & team. Vehicle detained, DL being suspended, and FIR registered. No one is beyond the reach of the law; its only matter of time In August, Bengaluru police caught another man who had been avoiding paying the pending traffic fines on his bike. The fine for a total of 46 violations was pending on the bike of the man and police made him pay the dues on spot. The total dues came up to 13,850, said Bengaluru police. A record number of e-challans for traffic violations are generated from Karnataka between August 1 and August 9, said state additional director general of police (traffic and road safety) Alok Kumar. Around 50 per cent of traffic e challans in the country are generated from Karnataka, according to the data. The Bengaluru Traffic Police recently introduced an Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) in the city to detect traffic violations and issue challans to the violators. The AI system will detect violations of the speed limit, jumping the signal, riding without a helmet, triple riding and using mobile phones while driving. 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! Blaming the Congress government in Karnataka for its handling of the Cauvery water dispute, BJP MP Tejaswi Surya said on Wednesday that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had failed to handle the issue, and that Karnataka should stop releasing water to neighbouring Tamil Nadu. MP Tejasvi Surya (HT PHOTO) Surya, who represents the Bangalore South constituency, made the remarks during a protest at Vidhana Soudha, alongside other BJP leaders, over the ongoing Cauvery River water conflict between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Surya also called for Karnataka to cease the release of water to neighboring Tamil Nadu. READ | State-wide bandh in Karnataka tomorrow: Here's what to expect "Karnataka government has completely failed in putting forth proper details to the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) committee. Showing fingers towards the central govt is not going to work. Central official work has been done. Now it is in the hands of authorities and the Supreme Court," the BJP leader said. Meanwhile, former CM BS Yediyurappa along with other leaders and workers of the party staged a sit-in against the Karnataka government over the Cauvery water-sharing issue near the Gandhi statue in Bengaluru on Wednesday. READ | Bengaluru News LIVE Updates: Pro-Kannada groups continue protest over Cauvery row today Protesting BJP leaders and workers also raised slogans against CM Siddaramaiah and deputy CM DK Shivakumar. Farmers across Karnataka have been protesting since the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) ordered the state to release 5000 cusecs of water to its neighbouring state Tamil Nadu, for 15 days, effective from September 13. The Supreme Court bench refused to interfere with the order of Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) to Karnataka on releasing 5,000 cusecs of water every day for now to Tamil Nadu. 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! When in Bengaluru, do yourself a favour. Go into one of the 85 craft breweries in the city or rather, try to go, because depending on the day, you wont be able to get in. Weekends tho as we say in Hindi, forget it. And these arent small places. In order to get a microbrewery licence, you need 10,000 square feet at minimum. Beginning Thursday night, craft breweries are packed. Hence my question: is beer the butter chicken of Bengaluru? All parts of this question are operative. No other alcoholic beverage other than beer has been able to forge such a huge fan base among the Indians and Bengalureans. (HT Archive) You see, I am a serious wine drinker (not a pretentious one though) and a casual beer drinker. In the wine world, we keep talking about how India is ground-zero for wine business, and how more and more young Indians are drinking wine. But thats because we havent seen the growth spurt in the craft beer industry. No other alcoholic beverage has been able to forge such a huge fan base among the Indians and Bengalureans. So, to all my wine-drinking friends, I say, we winos are living in la-la land. Beer not wine is taking over the Indian subcontinent. Part of the reason is because wine is viewed as elitist while beer is accessible, without fuss. Like butter chicken, it is a crowd pleaser that doesnt take itself too seriously. And now we come to the title of this essay. Please read the question again. I am not talking about foods that pair well with beer. Of that, there are many including pakoras, peanuts, vadas, fried food in general, biriyani, Andhra meals, spicy food in general, heck, all Indian food except maybe our sweets. Is food pairing the secret of beers success? Maybe. Years ago, I got really mad when a Western wine writer wrote that the best wine pairing with Indian food was, well, beer. I thought he was dissing Indias wine palate, our countrys sophistication with respect to wine, and that he displayed typical Western chauvinism when it came to new cultures savouring wine. Now that I have started drinking craft beers in Bengaluru, I have to admit that he may be right and take that chip off my shoulder. Indian food pairs really well with a chilled beer. That said, what Indian dish do you associate most with beer? If beer where an Indian dish, which one would it be? I can only think of three contenders and I have never tasted two of them: butter chicken, tandoori chicken, and masala dosa. Now, I have written a lot about masala dosa but this dish is too parochial and dare I say, Brahminical to align with beer. Bengaluru, much like beer, is cosmopolitan, forgiving and welcoming. Masala dosa is too entrenched and regional. That leaves the two chicken dishes, which I, as a lifelong vegetarian, have never tasted. But if I were to eat non-veg, I would probably begin with these two dishes. They look appetising. A friend told me eat them just before I die because then my regret for not eating chicken earlier would last for a shorter period of time. Twisted logic but then this friend is a serious carnivore. Beer and butter chicken have a lot in common. Take the dish. Originally from Punjab, butter chicken has taken over the world, much like beer. Both adapt well to regional variations. Butter chicken is touted as the national dish of the UK. I would reckon that the English version is nothing like the fiery Telangana version. Much like beer, butter chicken lends itself to fine-dining and dhabas. Both beer and butter chicken are ancient inventions, and perhaps they were created around the same time. Today Belgium, Germany, the Czech Republic and England are the four countries that come to mind when you think of beer. Except that these guys eat food that is nothing like our spicy Indian food. German sausages, Czech dumplings, English shepherds pie and Belgian steak frites are the opposite of our spicy food. Yet somehow, our food pairs just as well with beer as do the weak-kneed non-spicy food of these Northern European countries. We have to grant them one thing though. Northern European countries were the pioneers in elevating beer into the dry-hopped, barrel-aged, limited-release, small-batch artisanal versions that are taking over India. This then is the genius of beer, relative to my other drink: Wine. Even though beer is arguably more complex than wine; even though it definitely takes more steps to make beer than wine, beer wears its laurels lightly. It is forgiving when it comes to food pairings. Throw a kheema kebab at a white wine and the wine will wilt. Throw a kheema kebab at a German Kolsch and it will dance. In fact, I cannot think of a single variety of beer, be it a Belgian ale, German lager, Czech Pilsner, or Irish Stout that wont go with Indian food. Beer therefore is like butter chicken: complex yet accessible. Where do I go to drink my beer in Bengaluru? Well, that requires a separate article. (Shoba Narayan is Bengaluru-based award-winning author. She is also a freelance contributor who writes about art, food, fashion and travel for a number of publications) 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 Shoba Narayan Shoba Narayan is Bangalore-based award-winning author. She is also a freelance contributor who writes about art, food, fashion and travel for a number of publications. ...view detail As pro-Kannada and farmers' organisations have called for a 'Karnataka Bandh' on Friday to protest the release of Cauvery river water to neighbouring Tamil Nadu, the administration in Bengaluru has declared a holiday in all educational institutions in the city for the day. A view of a deserted Bellandur road during the 'Bengaluru Bandh' called by Kannada organizations and farmers over the release of the Cauvery river water to Tamil Nadu, in Bengaluru on Tuesday. (Arun Kumar Rao) "As Karnataka bandh has been declared by various organizations, a holiday has been declared for all schools and colleges in Bengaluru city in the interest of students," said KA Dayananda, Bengaluru City District Deputy Commissioner. Meanwhile, in view of the bandh, prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) have been imposed in the Mandya district, where schools and colleges will remain closed tomorrow, said District Collector Kumar. (Karnataka bandh LIVE updates) We are on WhatsApp now. Click to join. Karnataka has been witnessing protests over the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu after the Supreme Court refused to intervene in the decisions of the Cauvery Water Management Authority(CWMA) and its assisting body Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) that directed the state to do so. In the latest decision, the CWRC had ordered Karnataka to ensure the release of 3,000 cusecs of Cauvery water at Biligundlu starting from September 28 till October 15, 2023. In the earlier spell, it was 5,000 cusecs. Members of Karnataka Rakshana Vedike Swabhimani Sene on Thursday interrupted a press conference being held by actor Siddharth for his film and demanded he leave the venue. The actor was promoting his upcoming film 'Chikku' in Bengaluru when the members of Karnataka Karnataka Rakshana Vedike Swabhimani Sene disrupted the event, saying that it was not an appropriate time for him to do that as Tamil Nadu was demanding Cauvery River water from Karnataka. Also, a group of the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV) activists on Thursday held a massive protest in Bengaluru against the state MPs and Siddaramaiah Government over the Cauvery River water issue. The KRV activists shouted slogans of "Cauvery Is Ours" as they protested against the release of the river water to Tamil Nadu. KRV Women's Wing President Ashwini Gowda said that this is the time for all Kannadigas to come together and demanded that the state-elected MPs should come up and speak up on the matter and stand for the people of Karnataka or resign from the post. "The issue has been raised for 150 years and I think this is the right time for all Kannadigas to come and have a better conclusion," she said in a statement. The KRV activist also demanded the Prime Minister's intervention in the matter. "The MPs of Karnataka do not want to raise this issue and they do not want to talk about this. There is not even a single MP talking about the issue of Cauvery, we want them to talk or we want them to resign," she 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! Karnataka Bandh Updates: Two days after the Bengaluru Bandh, the entire state is observing a strike today, called by pro-Kannada organizations. Protests are being held across the state against the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu amid a drought-like situation in several districts. Karnataka police have deployed extra force across the state to tackle protestors and avoid any law and order issues. Karnataka Bandh LIVE: Kannada activists burn an effigy of Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin in Chikmagalur.(PTI) Also Read | State-wide bandh in Karnataka today: Here's what to expect Here are the top 5 points: Section 144 has been imposed in Mandya, Bengaluru, Mysuru, Chamarajanagar, Ramanagara and Hassan. Read more here Protests have been held near Town Hall and Freedom Park areas in Bengaluru. Transport and travel has been hit in several districts, with KSRTC buses operating in single digits against hundreds, and as many as 44 flights having been cancelled to and from the Bengaluru international airport. Protests were also held on the Tamil Nadu side, with officials saying they will appeal the Supreme Court to direct Karnataka to release 5,000 cusecs of water. All schools, colleges and other educational institutions have been given a holiday today in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Chamarajanagara, Ramanagara, Mandya and Hassan in view of the bandh. Stay further up to date with Hindustan Times' liveblog, where you can find all the latest and LIVE news on the Karnataka bandh today. Weighing in on former ally JD(S) joining the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) ahead of next year's Lok Sabha elections, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday said he does not have any "problems" with the party taking a saffron turn. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah. (ANI Photo)(CMO Karnataka ) Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, the CM said, "I have no problem if the JD(S) allies with BJP or any other party for that matter." The CM's remarks came in response to JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy's statement that he would have been the chief minister for a full five-year term if his party was the "B-team" of the BJP. READ | 'Failed to handle issue': BJP's Tejasvi Surya slams Karnataka CM over Cauvery water row Taking a dig at the former ally of the ruling Congress, Siddaramaiah said the Janata Dal (Secular) ought to be in a quandary over its name after the alliance with the BJP, as it could no longer call itself "secular". Clarifying on the party's alliance with the BJP ahead of the next Lok Sabha elections earlier on Wednesday, JD(S) Supremo and former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda said the decision to join the NDA was taken after holding prior consultations with party colleagues. Significantly, a few Muslim leaders in the party raised the flag of rebellion and tendered their resignation from the primary membership of the JD(S) after voicing misgivings over its alliance with the BJP. "Before allying with the BJP, I sought the views of all our 19 MLAs and 8 MLCs. They were all of the opinion that the JD(S) should consider going into an electoral understanding with the BJP," Deve Gowda said. READ | State-wide bandh in Karnataka tomorrow: Here's what to expect Addressing a press conference, the JD(S) chief said he had never met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and only met Home Minister Amit Shah for the first time in 10 years recently. We are not power-hungry politicians. I held a discussion with Home Minister Amit Shah for the first time in the last 10 years. I have never met PM Modi. During our meeting, I explained the state's prevailing political situation to the Home minister, Deve Gowda said. The JDS had on September 22 formally joined hands with the BJP-led NDA ahead of the next general elections. Former CM HD Kumaraswamy announced the tie-up after meeting Amit Shah and BJP chief JP Nadda in the national capital. Following the announcement, JD(S) state vice president, Syed Shafiulla Saheb and other leaders including M Srikanth and UT Ayesha Farzana resigned from the party, signalling discontent among minority leaders in the party. 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! Karnataka capital Bengaluru saw massive traffic snarls on Wednesday as residents headed out of the city for the long weekend ahead of Eid Milad today, a state-wide bandh on Friday and Gandhi Jayanti on Monday. That coupled with comedian Trevor Noah's first show in the city, heavy rain in some areas and Lord Ganesha idol immersion processions brought vehicular movement to a crawl. The traffic holdup resulted in a four-hour wait for many, with traffic police advising IT employees to leave their offices post 8pm.(Karnataka Weather/X) Several commuters took to social media site X to recount the ordeal and share visuals, with a user writing that it took him six hours to travel from RMZ Eco World Road to Kathriguppe, which under usual conditions would take up to an hour. READ | Cauvery row heats up, parallel protests held in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu HSR layout flyover towards Sarjapura and Bellandur at 8:15pm. I experienced one of the worst days of my life in Blr traffic. Left Eco world at 3:45pm and reached Kathriguppe at 9:15pm. Traffic horror in Bengaluru, he wrote. Bengaluru Central MP PC Mohan also posted, Bengaluru's tech hub, ORR, faced an unprecedented traffic jam, trapping techies, office-goers, and school buses for almost 4 hours. The Baiyappanahalli-KR Pura metro link, could have eased this, but the State Govt's inaction, despite CMRS approval, prolongs the suffering. Here are a few visuals of the unprecedented congestion: Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya also addressed the traffic snarl and hit out at the delayed launch of the KR Pura-Baiyappanahalli metro line, saying that the stretch between Hoodi to Baiyappanahalli should normally take less than 10 minutes in the Metro. Trevor Noah's comedy show cancelled Comedian Trevor Noah on Wednesday cancelled both his shows in Bengaluru after facing technical snags, disappointing eager fans. He posted an apology online and said all ticket holders will receive a full refund. READ | Trevor Noah cancels show last minute in Bengaluru and posts apology Trevor Noah got stuck in Bengaluru Traffic & reached his own show late. People stuck in ORR traffic for 2-3 hours unable to move, sold their tickets on IG/X. Some reached & Trevor cancelled the show cause of bad acoustics. He's probably already writing jokes on BLR's traffic, another internet user shared. 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 southern state of Karnataka is set to witness a day long state-wide bandh on Friday in protest against the release of Cauvery river water to neighbouring Tamil Nadu. The bandh, called by the 'Kannada Okkuta' - a blanket organisation of pro-Kannada groups - comes after a Bengaluru bandh held on Tuesday, which evoked a partial response. The Karnataka bandh is being backed by nearly 2,000 pro-Kannada groups. (Representational image)(PTI) Timings of the Karnataka bandh tomorrow The bandh will be in effect for 12 hours from 6am to 6pm tomorrow. Where will protests be held? Farmers and pro-Kannada groups are set to take out a massive protest procession from Town Hall to Freedom park in Bengaluru, among other places across the state. What will be affected? Transport and travel could be affected across the state tomorrow as organisers of the protests have told reporters that they will try to shut highways, toll gates, rail services, and even airports. Schools, colleges and other educational institutions are also likely to be closed tomorrow, along with offices. Employees are expected to largely work from home, however there is no official confirmation as of yet. Essential services including hospitals, government offices and banks are likely to operate as per usual. Will Ola, Uber be available? Cab aggregators including Ola and Uber have extended support to the bandh tomorrow and are set to hold a rally from Nayandahalli to Town Hall. All our drivers have been informed to stay off the road from 6 am to 6 pm. We will hold a rally from Nayandahalli to Town Hall, Tanveer Pasha, Ola Uber Driver's and Owner's Association told Hindustan Times. The Kannada Okkuta said the Karnataka bandh tomorrow will be successful, and warned the state government against measures to curtail the protests. "Karnataka bandh will be successful, more than 1,900 associations and pro Kannada organisations have supported it. From Belagavi or Bidar to Chamarajanagara and from Mangaluru to Kolar, everyone is ready to observe bandh," 'Kannada Okkuta' leader Vatal Nagaraj told news agency PTI. Nagaraj also said film superstar Rajinikanth should not come to Karnataka, and that his films should be boycotted in the state. "Even if power goes, don't release water, for the sake of people of Karnataka...if you release water there will be state wide protest for 15 days, we will shut National Highways, we will hold jail bharo agitations, lakhs of people are ready to go to jails," he added. Recap While schools, colleges, offices, shops, restaurants, hotels and establishments remained shut on Tuesday, public transport including KSRTC, BMTC, Metro, auto rickshaws and cab aggregators such as Ola and Uber functioned as per normal. READ | Bengaluru bandh elicits mixed response, govt vows support to farmers The Cauvery Water Regulatory Committee (CWRC) on Tuesday held a meeting and revised daily water inflow to Tamil Nadu from 5,000 cusecs to 3,000 cusecs after considering the drought-like situation being witnessed in several districts of Karnataka. However, the decades old Cauvery dispute between the two southern states was fuelled by separate protests and sit-ins by opposition parties on Wednesday, which said the ruling Congress failed to handle the issue. READ | CWRC directs Karnataka to release 3000 cusecs of water to TN from Sept 28 till Oct 15 Several reports said around 1000 people were detained after Tuesday's Bengaluru bandh for organising and participating in protests and marches without taking prior permission. The Bengaluru bandh, along with tomorrow's wider one is set to cost the state government around 4,000 crore, another report said. (With PTI inputs) 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! As the Urban Local Bodies and Panchayat elections are scheduled to be held within a couple of months, the leaders of J&Ks political parties feel the elections could be deferred by the government as the Bharatiya Janata Party feels insecure to hold the polls as they fear their defeat. National Conference leader Omar Abdullah (File) The term of municipal council, committees, corporations and panchayats ends next month. The officials were waiting for the election notification to be announced for these polls, however, there have been some indications that these elections could be deferred. National Conference leader Omar Abdullah on Thursday claimed that the BJP does not want to hold any elections in Jammu and Kashmir as it knows that people will punish them through ballot. They (BJP) are not in a mood to hold elections because they know that people are not with them. Leave Kashmir aside, BJP will be at the receiving end from the people in Jammu as well. Thats why they do not have courage to hold polls, Abdullah told reporters at the party headquarters here. He said the Opposition alliance has called for a meeting in Jammu to discuss issues. The Opposition leadership will sit and discuss the issues related to J&K. If they have to decide any future programme, its going to be decided there only. Its good that this meeting is being held in Jammu. National Conference chief spokesman Tanvir Sadiq said its evident that the BJP and its led administration is scared to face people. The delay of five years in holding assembly elections implies their reluctance to establish a democratically-elected government in Jammu and Kashmir. PDP chief spokesman Mohit Bhan said the BJP has sensed its defeat across Jammu and Kashmir be it ULB polls or assembly and their anxiety is clearly visible through their actions. The government has made mockery of itself. The reputation of democratic institutions such as the ECI has gone down in peoples eyes. Congress chief spokesman Ravinder Sharma said deferment of ULB and panchayat polls, as suggested by media reports, is the acceptance of defeat. The BJP has accepted its defeat even before polls in Jammu. Some of the BJP leaders admitted that they too feel elections wont be held on time. The panchayat and ULB elections may get postponed. Everything will be held after Lok Sabha polls and our party cadres are preparing for those elections in UT, said a senior party leader privy to details. BJP DDC member and senior leader, Ajaz Hussain termed the deferment of polls as rumours spread by Opposition parties and said the polls will be held on time. In July, state election commissioner BR Sharma told reporters that panchayat polls in Jammu and Kashmir should be held in October-November this year as the term of existing panchayat ends on January 9 next year. He also had said exercises such as revision of electoral rolls will be taken up shortly for the elections for around 33,700 elected panchayat seats, including around 4,000 sarpanches or village chiefs. 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 Kurukshetra University (KU) on Wednesday inked Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with seven international universities, marking a significant stride in global academic collaboration. Kurukshetra university inks pacts with seven international varsities By inking these agreements, the KU has become an academic partner within the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangles University Network (IMT-GT UNINET), an alliance encompassing twenty-seven universities across these three nations. The MoUs were signed on the sidelines of the 29th IMT-GT meeting held in a blended mode in Batam city, Indonesia. KU vice-chancellor Prof Som Nath Sachdeva, who signed the MoU virtually, said, Through these MoUs, KU has become the first university in the country to expedite the implementation of projects and programmes of cooperation between IMT-GT and India. These MoUs will open up numerous opportunities for our students to actively engage in the internationalisation of higher education, as mandated by the National Education Policy 2020. This collaboration will establish a robust network of academic partnerships with these seven esteemed international universities, facilitating student and faculty exchanges, joint research initiatives, and cultural exchanges, he added. The institutions involved in these MoUs included six universities from Indonesia: Universitas Syiah Kuala, Universitas Lampung, Universitas Maritim Raja Ali Haji, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Universitas Jambi, and Universitas Riau. Additionally, one university from Malaysia, Universiti Technology MARA, has also become a part of this MoU. 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 Centre should immediately release 1,500-2,000 crore as relief as per the norms to speed up relief and restoration work in disaster-hit Himachal Pradesh, chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said here on Thursday. Himachal Pradesh chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu receives a cheque of 1 lakh from 90-year-old residents of Shimla Satya Kapoor and Sudarshan Mohan as part of donation towards Aapda Rahat Kosh, in Shimla on Thursday. (ANI) Talking to the media persons here, he said this is the legitimate claim of the state which suffered losses of 12,000 crore and added that the issue was raised with the Union home minister during the recent Regional Interstate Council meet at Amritsar. However, the state government is committed to giving special packages to disaster-hit people on its own in spite of the financial crunch, he said and indicated a cut in the budget allocation to manage resources. Himachal Pradesh vidhan sabha on Wednesday (September 20) adopted a resolution by voice vote, urging the Union government to declare the recent calamity in the state as a national disaster and declaration of special relief package of 12,000 crore for the state. The issue regarding the problem of infiltration of people of Jammu and Kashmir from Churah in Chamba district and people of Leh from Sarchu, who are grabbing lands in Himachal for the past many years, was also raised with Lt Governors of twin Union territories, who agreed for mapping by Survey of India and resolving the issue, he said. Issues relating to handing over of Shanan power project in Jogindernagar (Mandi) to Himachal after the expiry of lease in March 2024 were also raised with Union home minister and Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann, he said. Demand for payment of arrears worth 4,000 crore on account of 7.19% share in Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) and permanent representative of Himachal in BBMB on the analogy of Punjab and Haryana was also raised. 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! Accessing the buildings terrace without arousing suspicion, entering the store through a specific weak point, disarming the surveillance system, boring a hole in the only concrete wall of the strong room and evading most CCTV cameras in the packed market every step burglars took during an audacious heist on a jewellery store in Jangpura was planned meticulously and executed with clockwork precision, pointing to an insiders role in the theft, said police officers investigating the elaborate crime. Delhi Police officials inside the jewellery shop in Jangura that was burgled on Sunday night. (Sanchit Khanna/HT photo) Also Read | Delhi heist: Burglars disabled CCTV, alarm Investigators made little headway in identifying the suspects a day after the 20 crore burglary came to light, but trained their focus on the showrooms employees, past and present, as well as service-providers who frequented the store in Bhogal neighbourhood. The burglars targeted the only vulnerabilities in and around the showroom. This is possible only when somebody knows a place inside-out, a senior police officer said on Wednesday. According to the police, burglars robbed the 75-year-old store of at least 200 pieces of jewellery, including 125 diamonds, on Sunday night, executing a well-crafted operation with relatively consummate ease. Each chapter of the heist, from start to finish, suggests an inside job, said investigators. Easy access to the terrace The thieves, said police, mapped their entry and exit paths accurately and likely recced buildings in the vicinity before the heist. They first made their way to the terrace of the four-storey building from a neighbouring building around 11.20pm on Sunday, going completely unnoticed.. While there are at least three ways to access the showrooms terrace through adjoining buildings, someone had to have had proper proper knowledge of the neighbourhood to do it without drawing anyones attention, said Babbi Saini, an immediate neighbour. In the absence of any definitive CCTV footage,the police have also not ruled out the possibility that the thieves camped on one of those terraces for several hours before striking. Targeting a specific weakpoint to enter Once they reached the terrace, one of the burglars used iron rods installed on the outer wall to climb down to a parapet, where the person cut open a glass window and broke into the building, said a police officer. Only an insider could have had such specific knowledge of a vulnerability in the store, the officer said. That burglar then likely jimmied the lock from the inside to allow his compatriots into the building. From there, they walked down to the ground floor, which housed the store and, crucially, the strongroom. Knowledge of wires, alarm system The burglars disabled the alarm and the security system as soon as they entered the building, and before they made their way down to the shop on the ground floor. They also disabled every CCTV camera installed across the 800 sqft store. About a dozen CCTVs are installed inside the building, including nine on the ground floor. Yet, the thieves were able to avoid getting captured by any of the cameras, and didnt set off any of the alarms, said another investigator. The officer added that such security systems can only be disabled if a person is versed with the process. The police are also probing if the thieves switched off the lights in the building before they wiped the store clean. Targeting the only concrete wall in the strong room Every night, before leaving the showroom, we would pack up all the gold and diamond jewellery and keep them in the strong room. It seems the thieves knew that, said Mahavir Prashad Jain, the store owner. To make their way into the strongroom, thieves used a gas cutter to slice a rectangular hole into the only concrete wall in the strongroom the other three walls are built of metal and would be much more difficult to penetrate. They cleared out every inch of the strongroom, which had the gold ornaments. But in the store itself, the thieves nicked only the gold and diamond jewellery, leaving the silver ornaments untouched, on their displays. Their focus seemed to be on high value and low volume. They went only for the gold and diamond ornaments, said a showroom staffer who asked not to be named. Aware of the lack of guards Security personnel were not deployed to safeguard the jewellery store at any point at night, said one of the staffers, adding that the burglars also appeared to know this. The thieves also likely knew that no one occupied any part of the building at night, and that the market itself was largely guarded only by unarmed watchmen, said a jeweller who asked not to be named. Jain defended the choice to not hire security guards. We have seen many cases of guards conspiring to loot shops. We dont trust security guards, he said. To be sure, as on Wednesday evening, investigators were still unsure about the timing of events, or indeed the exact sequence of the crime. They were yet to rule out the possibility of the thieves staying in the showroom through Monday, drilling the hole during the day to avoid the commotion drawing suspicion, and then wrapping up and leaving the building that night a few hours before the shop opened on Tuesday morning. Evaded CCTVs installed in the vicinity Even as the burglars disarmed CCTVs inside the store, surveillance cameras installed in the vicinity have been of little help to investigators, with the suspects seemingly managing to avoid being captured on tape. This has led investigators to believe the thieves knew the market well and likely spent some time assessing the cameras in the neighbourhood. Police have spotted suspicious activity in two pieces of footage a video of a man carrying a bag and another of a suspicious MUV but neither have given officers much of a foothold in the investigation. The market has over 50 jewellery shops and an abundance of CCTV cameras. Yet, the thieves managed to avoid being captured by any of them, said a police investigator. The police have also started checking the backgrounds of the residents in the adjoining buildings, particularly tenants who moved in recently. But Jain is insistent that the burglary did not involve an insider, even a former employee. These people are trustworthy. Most of them have been working for me for several years, Jain said. The police believe otherwise. We are yet to crack the case and the investigation is still premature.... But I would be surprised if no insider is found involved, said a senior police officer. 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 Delhi government and lieutenant governor VK Saxena have approved the extension of the existing excise policy 2020-21, which expires on September 30, for six months till March 31, 2024 to ensure the continuity of supply of liquor in the Capital, officials aware of the development said on Thursday. Delhi has 628 retail liquor stores, but none of them are private outlets. (HT Archive) The notification of the extension is yet to be issued as Thursday was a holiday for Eid e Milad and Anant Chaturdashi (Ganesh Visarjan), the officials said, but added that the notification will be issued on Friday. The notification for the extension of the existing excise policy will be issued on Friday, and traders who are willing to continue their excise businesses will be asked to apply for the extension of their licences with the same terms and conditions on the payment of additional licence fee on a pro rata basis, an official said, declining to be named. A second official said that since both the government and the LG have approved the extension of the policy, it is unlikely that there would be any disruption in the Capitals liquor supply. Traders will be given additional days beyond September 30 to renew their licences so that there is no disruption in supply, the second official said. Delhi has 628 retail liquor stores, but none of them are private outlets. Instead, all the retail liquor stores in the city are run by four Delhi government corporations Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (DSIIDC), Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC), Delhi Consumers Cooperative Wholesale Store (DCCWS), and the Delhi State Civil Supplies Corporation Limited (DSCSC). The Delhi government introduced the 2021-22 excise policy on November 17, 2021, which aimed to revitalise the citys flagging liquor business, but this was scrapped and replaced by the previous 2020-21 regime on September 1, 2022 after Saxena recommended a Central Bureau of Investigation probe into alleged irregularities in the new policy. Excise officials were then tasked with preparing a new liquor policy for the city, which was to be ready by September 2022. However, the new rules are yet to be framed, officials said. They said they are treading a fine line, trying to ensure that the liquor business is revitalised but at the same time, they do not fall foul of the law. Till a new policy is framed and approved, the existing 2020-21 policy has been extended multiple times first in February (till March 31), in March (till September 30), and now, in September (till March 31, 2024). Vinod Giri, director general, Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC), said the extension of the existing policy is a welcome step, but the current regime is not healthy for business. The existing excise policy is a cropped version of the old excise policy valid until mid-2021. It does not allow private players to open and operate liquor vends, and since the government cannot open shops fast enough, we have a very low number of shops in the city. This policy caps the legal drinking age at 25 years, which is the highest in the country, and has 21 dry days per year, compared to just three in neighbouring Haryana and Uttar Pradesh Because Delhi is neighboured by Gurugram and Noida, it needs a competitive excise policy for the growth of the liquor business, said Giri. 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 NEW DELHI: The ban on operating diesel generator (DG) sets with a capacity of 19 kW or above will kick in from October 1, Sunday, in Delhi-NCR unless these have been equipped with retrofitted emission control devices or dual fuel kits. The ban on diesel generator (DG) sets will cover gensets used for power backup The restriction, which will apply to all districts in the National Capital Region such as Noida, Greater Noida and Gurugram, was ordered by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on June 8 to give stakeholders time to make arrangements. The order also bars the use of large diesel gensets for backup in industrial, commercial and residential areas across the NCR from Sunday. Emission control devices (ECDs) are fitted at the exhaust of the machines to trap pollutants such as particulate matter and gases. The use of dual fuel mode kits allows a machine to operate on multiple fuels such as diesel and natural gas. According to the June 8 order, diesel gensets of a capacity of more than 19 kW that also run on LPG, natural gas, biogas, propane or butane can continue. Also, their use will not be curbed under the restrictions ordered as part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to rise in pollution during the winter months. DG sets between 19 kW to less than 125 kW will be required to run on a dual fuel mode of natural gas and diesel. CAQM said for such DG sets, there will be no restrictions on their use, except during GRAP, when they will be permitted to run for a maximum of two hours. DG sets with a power capacity of 125 kW to 800 kW, will be required to be run both on a dual fuel mode and be retrofitted with emission control devices. However, there will be no restrictions on such DG sets, even during GRAP. Gensets with a capacity of over 800 kW will either have to be retrofitted with dual fuel kits or with ECDs, and such sets will again face restrictions only during GRAP, where they will be allowed to run for a maximum of two hours. There will be no restrictions on new generating sets of over 800kW capacity that meet the stringent standards notified on November 3, 2022, by the Union environment ministry. Retro-fitment of dual fuel kits and/or Emission Control Devices (ECDs), wherever warranted, needs to be targeted to be completed latest by September 30, 2023, failing which the use of the DG set shall not be permitted under any circumstances, anywhere in the entire NCR, even for periods not under Grap restrictions, said CAQMs June 8 order had said. For this winter, CAQM underlined that there will be no exemptions under GRAP, unlike previous years, where DG sets were allowed at essential and emergent services like lifts, ISBTs, airports, healthcare facilities, metro stations, sewage treatment plants or telecommunication and data service institutes. Last year, while retrofitting was required, exemptions under these essential service categories could still be sought. 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 Starting October 1, diesel generator (DG) sets churning out more than 19kW will only be allowed to function in the National Capital Region (NCR) if they have been retrofitted with emission control devices (ECDs) or with dual fuel kits, according to a tweak in regulations announced by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). The CAQM regulations state that DG sets below 19 kW in power, or generator sets running on LPG, natural gas, biogas, propane or butane, do not require retrofitting, and will also not be restricted during the Grap period. (HT Archive) Environmentalists and resident welfare associations (RWAs) in Delhi have largely welcomed the move, but residents of Gurugram and Noida two cities that face frequent power outages said the decision will cause many hardships, and pointed to the high cost of converting DG sets to a dual fuel setup, which can be as high as 10 lakh for a 600kW DG set, according to some RWAs. Under new regulations, which were first announced on June 8, industries, commercial buildings, and residential setups have time till September 30 to finish retrofitting their DG sets. The rules state that there will be no exceptions under Graded Response Action Plan (Grap) a set of emergency measures that kick in on October 1 every year to tackle air pollution. In previous years, DG sets were allowed as power backup for essential and emergency services such as lifts, transport hubs, healthcare facilities, Metro stations, sewage treatment plants, or telecommunication and data service institutes. The CAQM regulations state that DG sets below 19 kW in power, or generator sets running on LPG, natural gas, biogas, propane or butane, do not require retrofitting, and will also not be restricted during the Grap period. DG sets between 19-125 kW will be required to run on a dual fuel mode of natural gas and diesel. CAQM said for such DG sets, there will be no restrictions on their use, except during Grap, when they will be permitted to run for a maximum of two hours. For DG sets with a power capacity of 125-800 kW, CAQM said they will be required to be run both on a dual fuel mode and will have to be retrofitted with ECDs. However, there will be no restrictions on such DG sets, even during Grap. For DG sets with a capacity of over 800kW, operators will either have to retrofit them with dual fuel kits or with ECDs, with such sets again facing restrictions only during Grap, where they will be allowed to run for a maximum of two hours. Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director, research and advocacy at the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) said the move to phase out DG sets is important to improve air quality across NCR. Emissions from DG sets are a sustained source, which over time leads to toxic exposure, particularly to those working around or near them. In addition to comprehensive guidelines for the retrofitting of ECDs and monitoring, we also need to ensure uninterrupted power supply through NCR and for that, CAQM needs to work with discoms, she said. Atul Goyal, president of the United Residents Joint Action (Urja) a consortium of more than 2,500 RWAs in Delhi said the Capitals power supply during the winter months is largely uninterrupted. Most of Delhi will be unaffected, as power supply issues and a reliance on DG sets is greater in Noida and Gurugram. However, in societies across Patparganj, Dwarka, Rohini, we may see an issue when it comes to power back-ups, he said. However, in Gurugram and Noida, residents said they may face problems this winter. RWAs in Gurugram have already informed the district administration that existing electricity infrastructure struggles to meet the growing demand of the city, leading to frequent outages. In such circumstances, they said, the usage of DG sets becomes inevitable. They have also said that converting existing DG sets to a dual fuel setup is a financially burdening affair, particularly for larger units. Pravin Malik, president of the Sare Home RWA in Gurugram, said most housing societies are likely to face problems as on an average, the city witnesses scheduled or unscheduled power cuts of one hour a day. Residents are likely to get impacted if the power backup is not made operational. In several areas of the city, PNG supply is not available, and this makes conversion of gensets difficult. We have asked the administration to seek six months to one year more for ensuring infrastructure is improved, he said. Representatives of the Noida Federation of Apartment Owners Association (NOFAA), an umbrella body of more than 70 high rise apartment owners associations in Noida, said CAQM should have considered feedbacks from residents before tweaking the rules. Noida high-rise dwellers would be the worst effected once the ban comes into effect, said Rajiva Singh, president of NOFAA. The unstable power supply by discoms, with frequent power failures , has not been considered while taking such a decision. 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 Pro-Khalistani slogans were found painted on the Yamuna bridge near Gate number 6 of the Kashmere Gate ISBT in Delhi on Wednesday night, police said. Delhi Police, however, removed the graffiti as soon after they spotted it. (Representative file image) Delhi Police, however, removed the graffiti as soon after they spotted it. A senior Delhi Police official said the slogans Delhi banega Khalistan were found painted on both sides of the bridge by people passing by. One of them informed us about the graffiti. A case has been lodged under section 153 of the IPC (Indian Penal Code) against unidentified miscreants and an investigation has been launched in this connection, he said, on condition of anonymity. In an official statement, Delhi Police said, A video came into notice on September 27 wherein certain visuals of defacement through graffiti were seen. As per the signage boards visible in the video, extensive search was launched in the area of North District, and graffiti was found on Yudhister Setu flyover coming from Seelampur towards Kashmere Gate. An FIR (first information report) has been registered under relevant sections of the IPC and Delhi Prevention of Defacement of Public Property Act and is being investigated. 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 A 26-year-old woman lost her life when a car struck her on National Highway 9 near Masuri, while she was attempting to confront an unidentified man on a bike who had been making obscene gestures to her, police said. The incident took place on September 9, when an unidentified biker, aged about 30 years, climbed down the highway and starting flashing at the 26-year-old and another woman who was working with her in the fields. (Representative Image) The incident took place on September 9, when an unidentified biker, aged about 30 years, climbed down the highway and starting flashing at the 26-year-old and another woman who was working with her in the fields. On Tuesday, the womans husband filed a complaint at Masuri police station against the unidentified man. My wife and the other woman tried to resist the man, but he continued his inappropriate behavior, including indecent exposure and offensive language. They attempted to approach him, and he fled to the highway. When my wife caught hold of him, he pushed her, causing her to fall onto the road. Tragically, she was struck by a passing car and suffered severe injuries, the womans husband said in the FIR. The entire incident was revealed by the other woman accompanying my wife, the complainant added further. The injured woman was promptly taken to a nearby hospital by the other woman and a car driver. She was later referred to GTB Hospital in Delhi, where she passed away on September 13. Based on the complaint, an FIR was registered under Section 354a (sexual harassment of the nature of unwelcome physical contact and advances), 509 (for intending to insult the modesty of a woman by uttering words, making sound or gestures etc) and 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) of the Indian Penal Code, along with Section 279 (rash driving) and 304a (causing death by negligence). The police said that they will take help of the CCTVs installed in the area. The man approached us later as he was busy with post-mortem formalities and performing last rites of his wife. He even came with initial complaint in which he asked us to levy provisions of the SC/ST Act. Since, this incident did not attract such provisions, we asked him to revise his complaint. On Tuesday we registered his FIR and in process of identifying the erring car driver and also the biker who flashed and made obscene gestures at the two women. He will be arrested soon, said Naresh Kumar, ACP (Masuri). Police said that the bike and the car involved in the incident bore registration number of Ghaziabad district 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 Peeyush Khandelwal Peeyush Khandelwal writes on a range of issues in western Uttar Pradesh from crime, to development authorities and from infrastructure to transport. Based in Ghaziabad, he has been a journalist for almost a decade. ...view detail Miss Universe Great Britain 2023, Jessica Page, visited the Wildlife SOS Elephant Conservation and Care Centre in Mathura for a conservation education tour. The delegation included other participants from the beauty pageant. Miss Universe Great Britain Jessica Page , Miss International UK 2023, Alisha Cowie along with finalists Harriotte Lane and Claudia Todd visited Elephant caare centre in Mathura. (Sourced) Jessica, a 27-year-old marketing manager and aspiring entrepreneur from Liverpool, England led the delegation. The visit was aimed at raising awareness against the abuse of Asian elephants in India. The visitors also included Alisha Cowie, who holds the title of Miss International UK 2023, along with Harriotte Lane and Claudia Todd, who were finalists in the Miss Universe Great Britain 2023 pageant. During their visit, the group were told about the history of rescued elephants, who were given a second chance at life free from abuse and cruelty. They had informative sessions with elephant care experts and veterinarians, gaining insights into the challenges faced by Asian elephants in India. They also visited the elephant hospital campus to understand the medical needs of rescued elephants. The team was enthused to support Wildlife SOS in their Refuse to Ride campaign, which seeks to raise awareness amongst the citizens about the dark reality behind elephant ride attractions in India. I urge everyone to help the organisation enforce their campaign - Refuse To Ride. I believe this cause is very important especially for tourists to provide a better life to the elephants. I call upon everyone to visit the centre and donate towards the cause, said Jessica. Few people realise that the captive elephants giving rides to tourists were once wild and separated from their herds. The only way to train them for tourist rides is through keeping them in constant pain and fear. We, in collaboration with the Miss Universe Great Britain 2023 team, strongly encourage everyone to speak out against the mistreatment of these majestic animals, said Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder & CEO, Wildlife SOS. We were honoured to have Jessica Page and her fellow participants visit our sanctuary. Their visit has brought into focus the plight of Asian elephants in India, said Geeta Seshamani, co-founder & secretary, Wildlife SOS. 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 Varanasi district court on Thursday heard an application seeking an order for a survey in Gyanvapi mosques entire wazukhana (where Muslims do their ritual ablutions before offering namaz), excluding the structure which the Hindus claims is a Shivling and Muslims insist is a fountain. The structure was claimed to have been found during a court- mandated survey in May 22. The court fixed October 5 as the next date of hearing. Counsel for AIMC Akhlaque Ahmad said, We will file objection against the application in the Varanasi district court on October 5. (HT FILE) The application was filed on behalf of Rakhi Singh, plaintiff number 1 in the Shringar Gauri-Gyavapi case, by her counsel Anupam Dwivedi, Saurabh Tiwari and Manbahadur Singh in the district court on August 29. In the application, the counsel for the plaintiff said the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) was conducting a scientific survey in Gyanvapi without causing any damage to the Gyanvapi structure. Likewise, a scientific survey of the entire wazukhana, excluding the purported Shivling, should be conducted in a similar manner in order to reach the right conclusion, they said. Tiwari said, The district court fixed October 5 as the next date of hearing. Tiwari added that counsel for the Anjuman Intezamia Masazid Committee received the copy of the application on Thursday. Counsel for AIMC Akhlaque Ahmad said, We will file objection against the application in the Varanasi district court on October 5. The Varanasi district court had on July 21 ordered the ASI to conduct a survey in the barricaded area of the Gyanvapi mosque, excluding its sealed area. The area, including wazukhana, where the Hindu side claimed to have found a Shivlinga, was sealed following an order by the Supreme Court in May last year. The Muslim side had rejected the claim by the Hindu side and had said the structure was a fountain. 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 chief justice (CJ) of the Allahabad high court has rejected an application filed by the Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Committee (AIMC), Varanasi, requesting the court to disclose the name of counsel or party, who had moved an application dated July 27, 2023 before the CJ for transferring the Gyanvapi mosque title dispute case from the judge, who had reserved judgment in the matter, to some other court. In the present bunch of petitions filed by AIMC and four others, the petitioners have challenged the maintainability of the suit filed before a Varanasi court that seeks restoration of a temple at the site where the Gyanvapi mosque exists. (HT FILE) In the same application, the AIMC had also requested that the present proceeding may not be restarted till disclosure of name in the interest of justice. Rejecting the application by AIMC, which manages the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi, Chief Justice Pritinker Diwaker observed, Identity of the applicant who highlighted the procedural impropriety in hearing of the writ petitions is not material. What is material and important is the sanctity of the court proceedings itself. The limited purpose served by the application dated July 27, 2023 is that the procedural impropriety arising in the proceedings got highlighted before the Chief Justice, on the administrative side, so that mandatory procedures for hearing of writ as per the rules of the court are complied with. It is otherwise open for any party to apply for inspection of records of the writ proceedings and ascertain the identity of the applicant who filed the said application dated July 27. Filing of an application on the judicial side or making of prayer to defer the hearing in the matters, for such reasons, appears to be wholly uncalled for, the court added. In the present bunch of petitions filed by AIMC and four others, the petitioners have challenged the maintainability of the suit filed before a Varanasi court that seeks restoration of a temple at the site where the Gyanvapi mosque exists. One petition, which is connected with these petitions, has also challenged a Varanasi court direction (dated April 8, 2021) to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to conduct a comprehensive survey of the entire premises of Gyanvapi mosque. Earlier, the chief justice had passed an administrative order on August 11, 2023 to withdraw the cases relating to Gyanvapi from the earlier bench. Later, on August 28, the chief justice had passed an order detailing the reasons why cases related to the Kashi Vishwanath-Gyanvapi land title dispute were withdrawn from a single judge, who had been hearing the matter, Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Varanasi v Ist ADJ Varanasi and Ors, since 2021. Subsequently, an application was filed by the petitioner AIMC on September 18, 2023, requesting the court to provide a copy of the complaint so that name and identity of the counsel as well as the party who had moved application dated July 27, 2023 before the chief justice for transferring the case to some other bench be known to all in the interest of transparency. And further prayed that in the meanwhile present proceedings be not restarted in the interest of justice, the AIMC added. Rejecting the application of AIMC dated September 18, the chief justice termed it as bereft of any merit, saying that facts, noted in the order of the court dated August 28, 2023, regarding procedural impropriety in conduct of the cases are otherwise not disputed. Hence, there is no occasion for the petitioner to pray for deferment of the proceedings on the grounds urged in the application dated September 18. After giving the above reasons, the chief justice directed to list the bunch of cases relating to the Gyanvapi title dispute on October 4, 2023 for further hearing. 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 Mizoram government on Wednesday decided not to collect the biometric data of the Myanmarese seeking refuge in the state, officials aware of the matter said. Mizoram chief minister Zoramthanga (File Photo) The Union home ministry had in April directed to collect the biometric data of Myanmar nationals taking refuge in Mizoram and Manipur by September end. While a pilot project for recording biometric data of Myanmar nationals was launched across all 11 districts of Mizoram, primarily in relief camps where the refugees are staying, but with the deadline for completing this exercise set for September 30, the chief minister Zoramthanga-led government has decided not to go ahead with the exercise citing violation of human rights, said state government officials. The Union home ministry on Thursday had directed the Manipur government to fasten the process of capturing the biometric details of illegal migrants while also extending the deadline to complete the exercise by March 31, 2024, from previous September 2023. Since the Myanmar military coup of 2021, around 60,000 Myanmarese have taken refuge in the state. The government of Mizoram has provided all the relief to these refugees. The children have been given free education, free mid-day meals and others; and the state government, despite the Centres failure to provide any funds, is continuing to provide for the relief of our brethren, Mizoram information and public relations minister Lalruatkima said. But, the ministry of home affairs (MHA), in a letter sent to the state government, had ordered for the biometric and biographic samples of Myanmar and Bangladesh refugees to be collected. This can lead to various issues as India is not a signatory to the UN Refugee Convention, added Lalruatkima. The state minister also emphasized that such profiling of our brothers and sisters is not required, and that the state government wont take up such discriminatory exercise. Speaking on the issue Mizoram home secretary H. Lalengmawia said that doing this would be a violation of human rights. Biometric and biographic profiling of our brethren from Myanmar and Bangladesh is the first step of the process of deportation. As their country has not stabilized, it would be a violation of human rights to deport them before there is peace in their respective countries, Mizoram home secretary H. Lalengmawia said. He added that the state government does not have the manpower to conduct such an exercise as all departments are busy in preparation for the upcoming state assembly election in November. It is worth noting that besides the Myanmar and Bangladesh refugees, Mizoram is currently hosting around 12,000 Internally Displaced Persons from Manipur. Since staging a coup on February 1, 2021, the Myanmar Junta military has carried out a brutal nationwide crackdown on millions of people opposed to its rule. About 50,000 Myanmar citizens fled to India since the military ousted Myanmars democratically elected government in February 2021. 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 Long grappling with child malnutrition issues, Uttar Pradesh is now making substantial progress in addressing this concern. While the latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS) data reveals U.P. retains its position among the top states with child stunting, theres a positive outlook thanks to significant improvements in other key indicators. The state is now putting extra emphasis on the few districts that require additional attention to continue its march towards better child nutrition. Women with their infants at the NRC (Nutrition Rehabilitation Centre) in Sitapur. (HT Photo) In the recently released NFHS 5 report for 2021, Uttar Pradesh stands as the third-highest state with child stunting, affecting 39.7% of infants. While this ranking is still a cause for concern, its noteworthy that the state has seen a gradual decline in under-5 stunted population, from approximately 57% to 46%, and then down to 40% over three survey cycles. U.P. currently finds itself in the third position from the bottom in terms of child stunting rates, with only Meghalaya and Bihar reporting higher figures. In the 2016 NFHS report, U.P. occupied the second-to-last spot. The latest report reveals that several states, such as Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Gujarat, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Assam, have made commendable strides in addressing this issue. These states exhibit lower child stunting rates when compared to Uttar Pradesh. Within the state, the data reveals that 39.7% of children are stunted, 32.1% are underweight, and 17.3% are wasted, as reported by the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS). Despite these challenges, the government is actively working to improve health, nutrition, and education indicators, with a particular focus on the districts that need it the most. Sarneet Kaur Broca, ICDS director said, a four-month campaign titled Sambhav is reaching completion by the end of September where 1.5 crore SAM (severe acute malnutrition) and MAM (moderate acute malnutrition) children were identified across the state and medicines and supplementary nutrition have reached almost 60% of the kids. By the end of the project, we hope to reach 80% to 90% of the children, she said. She also said that it is far easier to carry this out now, Since there have been advancements in the technology, now the ICDS and the health department share the same data of the SAM and MAM children and their families. The NFHS report for Uttar Pradesh also sheds light on gender disparities, indicating that more girls suffer from malnutrition than boys. Additionally, only 42% of women in the state receive the recommended number of antenatal care visits before conception. Some districts like Unnao, Barabanki, Bhadohi, Ghazipur, and Chitrakoot record less than 30% of women receiving proper antenatal care. While Bahraich has the highest number of stunted children in Uttar Pradesh, Banda leads in wasted and underweight children. However, the governments proactive approach is reflected in a 2022 study by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, which identified these districts among the top ten in India with the highest prevalence of stunted children under the age of five. Addressing the issue, Keshri Nandan Tiwari, district probation officer of Banda, points out a significant factor contributing to child malnutrition: the lack of a healthy gap between pregnancies. Tiwari stressed the need for awareness and education on proper family planning to ensure both mothers and childrens health. Raj Kapoor, Bahraich DPO, commended the communitys increasing awareness and the effectiveness of the e-Kavach portal. Kapoor praised the efforts of anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, and auxiliary nurse and midwives (ANMs) in identifying and addressing malnutrition cases. He expressed optimism, stating, It has been 3-4 months since the e-Kavach portal became active, and we can already see an improved understanding of childrens health among the communities. I believe it will continue to improve. Frontline workers like Kamini Verma, a nurse at a district Nutrition Rehabilitation Centre (NRC), continue to face challenges due to poverty and lack of information in remote rural areas. Verma emphasized the need for increased awareness of proper pregnancy care and resources to reduce critical health issues in newborns and children. While there is progress to celebrate, Uttar Pradesh acknowledges that there is more work to be done, especially in specific districts that require heightened attention. As of 2020, the state had the highest number of children affected by Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) under the age of six, with rural areas facing greater challenges in accessing healthcare. Nevertheless, with continued efforts and focused interventions, Uttar Pradesh is determined to improve child nutrition and ensure a brighter future for its children. 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 court of the Varanasi district judge on Thursday rejected the Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Committees plea seeking an order to stop the ongoing survey by Archaelogical Survey of India (ASI) in Gyanvapi mosque, Varanasi. The court completed the hearing on the application on September 21. Rajesh Mishra, the Uttar Pradesh governments special counsel for Shringar Gauri-Gyanvapi case, The court of district judge Ajay Krishna Vishwesha rejected the application of Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Committee seeking an order to stop the ASI survey. (FILE PHOTO) Rajesh Mishra, the Uttar Pradesh governments special counsel for Shringar Gauri-Gyanvapi case, The court of district judge Ajay Krishna Vishwesha rejected the application of Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Committee seeking an order to stop the ASI survey. According to Mishra, the court said that it could not interfere in the orders of the superior courts. .... the application is rejected. Akhlaque Ahmad, counsel for AIMC, said, After receiving the copy of the order, we will consult counsel for the committee in the higher courts and seek their guidance. Thereafter, we will challenge the order in the higher court. On August 9, AIMC, which manages the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi, filed the application in the district court. The committee prayed for stopping the ongoing survey by the Archeological Survey of India in the barricaded area of the Gyanvapi mosque complex, excluding its sealed section. Filing the application, the counsel for the committee, Mumtaz Ahmad, had said that the plaintiffs 2 to 5 (four Hindu women plaintiffs in Shringar Gauri-Gyanvapi case) didnt deposit the amount of the expenditure for the ASI survey. As the ASI hasnt given any vocal or written information to AIMC about the survey, the proceedings of the survey were against the rule, the counsel argued and prayed to the court to pass an order to stop the ongoing ASI survey. The Varanasi court had initially ordered the survey on July 21. In compliance with that order, the ASI had conducted the survey for over four-and-a-half hours on July 24 after which the Supreme Court the same day (July 24) halted the exercise till 5pm on July 26 and granted liberty to the Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Committee (AIMC) to approach the Allahabad high court. When the mosque committee moved the high court on July 25, it extended the stay on the survey. The high court gave its ruling on August 3 and allowed the exercise to go ahead. AIMC moved the Supreme Court against the high court order, but the top court refused to stay the survey on August 4. 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 Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) announced the launch of three eMasters degree programs in Data Science and Business Analytics, Financial Technology and Management, and Power Sector Regulation, Economics, and Management through the Department of Management Sciences. According to IITK, the eMasters degree programs do not require a GATE score for applying and can be pursued without pausing professional careers According to IITK, the eMasters degree programs do not require a GATE score for applying and can be pursued without pausing professional careers. Flexibility in completion time ranges from 1 to 3 years. The 60-credit,industry-focused, real-world curricula are taught by faculty and researchers from IIT Kanpur. Additionally, a credit transfer facility is offered, allowing for the transfer of up to 60 credits for higher education (MTech/PhD) at IIT Kanpur, stated a press release by IITK. eMasters participants will also gain access to the IIT Kanpur placement cell, incubation cell, and alumni network of the institute. As part of the immersive learning experience, participants will have the opportunity to visit the IIT Kanpur campus to meet the faculty and network with experienced professionals. Upon completion, participants will be granted alumni status of IITK. The eMasters degree program also confers formal Senate-approved degrees during convocation, mentioned the press release. Applications are open until October 31, 2023, for fresh cohorts scheduled to commence in January 2024. Interested candidates may visit the official page emasters.iitk.ac.in/ 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 Rajasthan Public Service Commission, RPSC has changed exam centre for RPSC RAS Prelims Exam 2023 in Jaipur. Candidates can check the official notice on the official website of RPSC at rpsc.rajasthan.gov.in. RPSC RAS Prelims Exam 2023: Exam centre changed in Jaipur, notice here (File Photo) As per the official notice issued by RPSC, the exam centre at Jaipur district has been changed for for conducting the Rajasthan State and Subordinate Services Combined Competitive (Preliminary) Examination, 2023. The preliminary examination will be conducted on October 1, 2023. The roll number series -1261023 TO 1261358 candidates who were appearing for the exam at (16-0185), Shivalik College For Higher Education, Bus Stand Jagatpura, Dist.: Jaipur Pin_Code : 302001 will now appear for the exam at J.S Angels Academy, 52-53, Jagdish Vihar, Main Bus Stand, Jagatpura, Jaipur, Pin code- 302017. The concerned candidates should download the new admit card and appear at the examination center on time. RPSC RAS Prelims admit card is out on the official website on September 28, 2023. The written examination will be conducted in single shift- from 11 am to 2 pm. The preliminary examination will be 200 marks and will include questions on general knowledge and general science. The exam duration is for 3 hours. For more related details candidates can check the official site of RPSC. 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 The Delhi High Court in its order has asked the University Grant Commission (UGC) to take appropriate necessary actions against the Universities and colleges offering unspecified degrees and such universities are liable for penalty under Section 24 of the UGC Act, 1956. Take necessary action against colleges and universities offering unspecified degrees: Delhi HC to UGC (HT Photo) The Court said the purpose of providing specifications of degrees approved by the UGC from time to time, which are published on the website by the UGC, is to ensure for all universities and colleges and the students enrolling in such colleges/universities that degrees of students studying unspecified degree courses would render such unspecified degrees unrecognised by the UGC. It is done to maintain uniformity in the standards of education. However, UGC is directed to take appropriate necessary actions to ensure compliance of the provisions of the UGC Act, 1956, said the Bench of Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Sanjeev Narula in an order on a Public Interest Litigation highlighting the inaction of the University Grants Commission with respect to Universities/Institutions/ Colleges providing unspecified courses. Petitioner Rahul Mahajan through plea sought direction to UGC to ensure compliance by all universities and deemed-to-be universities and colleges and institutes, with a notification dated July 5, 2014, issued by the UGC and connected notifications to ensure uniformity in degree nomenclature. The plea also sought direction from UGC to ensure the wide publication of a consolidated list of specified degrees at least twice a year, prior to the commencement of each academic session. Advocate Vikram Singh Kushwaha appealed for the petitioner and contended that due to the lapses and inconsistencies in the laws, rules and regulations of the UGC and the lack of accountability of the respondents, students are conferred with degrees that are not recognized by the UGC. This creates a situation wherein students are led to waste their time, money and effort for a future that does not exist. Counsel for the petitioner contended that students who are conferred with degrees that are not specified in the Notification are being denied their fundamental right enshrined under Article 21 of the Constitution of India. UGC in its affidavit stated that it had earlier requested the Vice Chancellors of all the universities to adhere to the nomenclature of degrees specified by the provision of the notification dated 05.07.2014. It was also clarified by the UGC in the above-stated letter to all the universities. that UGC regulations/ notifications are statutorily and mandatorily to be followed by all the Universities and they have the force of law. Delhi HC while passing judgment noted that UGC has issued various letters to all the universities to ensure that they comply with provision of the UGC Act with regard to the specification of degrees. It may, therefore, be seen that UGC is taking all necessary measures to ensure strict compliance with the UGC Act, 1956 with regard to the specification of degree. In view of the above, no order is required to be passed in the present writ petition. However, UGC is directed to take appropriate necessary actions to ensure compliance with the provisions of the UGC Act, 1956, said the Delhi High Court. 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 A downtown Chippewa Falls revitalization project on River Street is making progress after years of planning. The Market on River building was shown off and celebrated Tuesday afternoon with a brick dedication ceremony hosted by the Wisconsin Farmers Union, which now owns the structure. Market on River will house the new Wisconsin Farmers Union offices as well as food vendors, retail and event space and apartments in downtown Chippewa Falls across from Riverfront Park. President and CEO of the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation Charlie Walker said the word that came to mind for him during Tuesdays ceremony was "cornerstone." Cornerstone is, as everyone knows, the foundation of a building. It is very important. And there's no doubt that agriculture is the cornerstone of the growth in Wisconsin. Chippewa Falls is home to Wisconsin Farmers Union, which is the cornerstone of growth here today, Walker said. When you put a $10 million investment into a community, that's a cornerstone, the foundation for growth in the future. So all we can do is support and congratulate on the collaboration that it took as a community to come together and really encourage the Farmers Union board to make this type of investment. Wisconsin Farmers Union facilities director Jackie Boos said the three-story Market on River building is 45,000 square feet. The third story will house eight residential units with views of the park and river. Two units already have been leased, and Boos said the hope is to rent out the remaining over the next few weeks. The second floor will house the new Wisconsin Farmers Union state headquarters, as well as event space that can accommodate up to 150 people. The ground floor will contract with 12 different vendors to bring in a highly anticipated food hall experience for residents and tourists. We're really thrilled about that, Boos said. Thus far interested parties include a brew pub, two cafes, a smoked meat shop and a fair trade coffee shop. All potential vendors agree to buy a percentage of food and beverage supplies from Wisconsin Farmers Union members. "The elements we've designed for this space really complement exactly what this building is, which is a sound, beautiful brick building in downtown Chippewa, said Boos. During Tuesdays ceremony, retired farmer and Wisconsin Farmers Union District 3 director Ed Gorell said Wisconsin Farmers Union is deeply rooted in Chippewa Falls. Our headquarters have been here since the 1940s, he said. As the organization grew, it was important for us to stay in the area. Gorell said the celebration of the new space on River Street was emotional for him. It made him think about all the people in the organization who trained him and brought about the expansive project, including some who are no longer living. This project is a culmination of hard work, dedication and commitment from individuals who have given their time and energy and resources, he said. That's where I kind of get emotional because we're building a future in our organization. They're not going to be here to see the impact of the work that we're doing here today, but seeing our mission being planned and implemented in every square foot of this building brings our work to the forefront, which is going to strengthen our advocacy and our elders and our educational efforts. Chippewa Falls Mayor Greg Hoffman said he was thrilled to see this sector of downtown Chippewa Falls growing. He said he understands how long revitalization projects take, as the Riverfront Park project took close to two decades to come to fruition. It has been a process to get to this point. I want to thank the Farmers Union for their willingness to come in and to jump in and plunge in, he said. I worked in the ag industry for almost 45 years. I'm very well aware of the Farmers Union an outstanding organization and we're very happy to bring this here. I wish them many years of success. The 120-year-old Market on River building was built by Leslie Willson as the Chippewa Valley Mercantile in 1904 and later became the home to the Chippewa Valley Mercantile Co. The structure, located at 128 W. River St., was owned by Machine Tool Camp from 2013 to 2022, when Wisconsin Farmers Union purchased the space. BML Munjal University, a Hero Group initiative, conducted its 8th convocation ceremony on September 23 for the class of 2023 in Gurugram. 366 students graduated post-completion of various academic programmes such as BTech, BCom (Hons), BA Eco (Hons), BBA & MBA and PhD programmes. Ms Shobana Kamineni, Executive Vice-Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals was the Chief Guest of the ceremony, informed the University in a press release. BML Munjal University, a Hero Group initiative, conducted its 8th convocation ceremony on September 23 for the class of 2023 in Gurugram According to the University, 125 students received degrees across BTech programmes, 237 students received degrees across MBA, BBA, BCom (Hons) and BA Economics (Hons) programmes and four students received their PhD degrees. Additionally, seven meritorious students from diverse disciplines were honoured with the Academic Excellence Medal. In recognition of Ms Shobana Kamineni for her contributions to healthcare innovation and women's empowerment, the Chancellor, Sunil Kant Munjal, and Vice Chancellor Prof. Shyam Menon conferred upon her an Honorary Doctorate of Science (Honoris Causa), the press release said. More than 95% of the students were placed with renowned companies with attractive packages and 125+ companies visited the campus during the placement season, informed the University. 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 Mpower, an initiative of the Aditya Birla Education Trust, launched Mpower - The Centre to provide holistic and multidisciplinary mental health care to the residents of Delhi. Mpower, an initiative of the Aditya Birla Education Trust, launched Mpower - The Centre in Delhi According to the press release, the Centre was launched by Dr Neerja Birla, Founder and Chairperson of Aditya Birla Education Trust and Mpower and Dr M Srinivas, Director of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi (virtually). The decision to establish Mpower in Delhi is a strategic response to the pressing mental health challenges faced by its residents. In launching 'Mpower - The Centre' in Delhi, we address a stark reality: half of Delhi's residents are at risk of poor mental health, burdened by the weight of stress in their lives. The need for holistic mental health care is unmistakable. At Mpower, we are committed to providing comprehensive support under one roof, said Dr Neerja Birla. She also unveiled the "Suicide Prevention Toolkit HOPE," a comprehensive and invaluable resource aimed at addressing the complex dimensions of suicide risk, stated the media release. Today on the occasion of the launch we also unveiled the 'Suicide Prevention Toolkit - HOPE,' a resource acutely relevant in a time when suicides can be prevented with the right care and support. Our toolkit guides individuals on offering positive assistance to those in distress, equipping them with the knowledge they need in critical moments, she added. The toolkit includes an array of valuable topics, such as "Unveiling Suicide Risk: A Cross-Population Analysis," "Insights into Men's Vulnerabilities," "Navigating Women's Unique Challenges," "From Innocence to Struggle: Children's Perspective," "Navigating the Turbulent Seas of Youth," "Middle Age: Juggling Responsibilities and Wellbeing," and "Embracing Golden Years: Geriatric Wellbeing." This toolkit serves as a vital tool in the fight against suicide, offering insights and strategies for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to promote mental health and prevent future tragedies, informed the media release by the centre. 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 Michael Gambon, 82, who played the role of Albus Dumbledore in the famous movie series Harry Potter died on Thursday, September 28. The Irish actor had effortlessly taken up the much-respected role in the franchise's third instalment. Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter and Michael Gambon as Albus Dumbledore While many in Hollywood grieved the loss of the actor, his co-star in Harry Potter shared heartfelt tributes to the late actor and his family and friends. J.K. Rowling- Author of Harry Potter J.K. Rowling the author of the fan-favourite fantasy series took to X to share her grief over Michael's demise writing: I've just heard the awful news about Michael Gambon. The first time I ever laid eyes on him was in King Lear, in 1982, and if you'd told me then that brilliant actor would appear in anything I'd written, I'd have thought you were insane. Michael was a wonderful man in additional to being an outstanding actor, and I absolutely loved working with him, not only on Potter but also The Casual Vacancy. My deepest condolences go to Michael's family and everyone who loved him. Jason Isaacs- Lucius Malfoy Jason took to X to share his tribute for Michael, crediting him for teaching him to act. I learned what acting could be from Michael in The Singing Detective complex, vulnerable and utterly human, Jason tweeted. The greatest thrill of being in the Potter films was that he knew my name and shared his fearless, filthy sense of fun with me. Rupert Grint- Ronald Weasley Rupert took to his Instagram account to pen a loving note for Michael and his family. So sad to hear about Michael, began Rupert. He brought so much warmth and mischief to every day on set. He captivated me as a kid and became a personal role model of mine for finding the fun and eccentricities in life. Sending all my love to his family, Rupert. Jared Harris Jared's late father Richard Harris was the first to portray the role of Dumbledore until his death in 2002. It was after him that Michael stepped into the role. A brilliant actor. I saw him on stage several times, and he lives unforgettably in my memory. He took over Dumbledore from my father, which was fitting as he overtook Brando as my fathers favorite actor, tweeted Jared. James Phelps- Fred Weasley James who portrayed the role of one of the twin Weasley brothers- Fred Weasley also took to X to recall a precious moment with his former co-star. Whilst shooting [Harry Potter] 6, I worked on the AD department for the whole shoot (apart from the days I was acting, James began. And for that reason, I spent many hours with Michael during the shoot. He was always very funny and very welcoming to share any knowledge he had. One day, we were shooting Dumbledores final clock tower scene, obviously quite an intense scene. In between set ups, Michael asked what I was up to that weekend. As it happened, my brother and I were reading Peter and the Wolf with the Manchester Halle orchestra. Do you have the script with you? He asked. I did. Ive done that, lets [go] through it, and if you like, I can give some notes. So, we spent what we should have been his downtime going over my weekend gig. It is a memoir Ive always had as one of my highlights of my HP days [sic]. Excitement is in the air as fans eagerly anticipate the premiere of Ragna Crimson, the anime adaptation of the beloved manga series. With its captivating blend of fantasy, magic, mystery, and intense action, Ragna Crimson is set to enchant audiences in a whole new way. Ragna Crimson Episode 1 is scheduled to premiere in Japan on Sunday Originally created as a manga, Ragna Crimson has garnered a dedicated following through its twelve collected volumes. Fans have high hopes that the anime adaptation will faithfully capture the essence of the manga and propel the series to new heights of popularity. ALSO READ| First glimpses of 'Tomb Raider,' 'Devil May Cry' anime, and latest project by 'Logan' co-writer Michael Green on Netflix The anime was officially announced in March 2022, and it's being produced by Silver Link. The first season of Ragna Crimson is set to feature a total of 24 episodes, released on a weekly basis. Ragna Crimson Episode 1 release date: Ragna Crimson Episode 1 is scheduled to premiere in Japan on Sunday, October 1, 2023, at 12:00 AM JST. For international audiences, here are the corresponding release times: * IST (Indian Standard Time): 08:30 PM on Saturday, September 30, 2023 * JST (Japan Standard Time): 12:00 AM on Sunday, October 1, 2023 * EST (Eastern Standard Time): 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 30, 2023 * GMT (Greenwich Mean Time): 04:00 PM on Saturday, September 30, 2023 Where to watch Ragna Crimson Episode 1: Viewers in Japan can catch the premiere on local networks like Tokyo MX and BS11. For international fans, "Ragna Crimson" will be available on HiDive. Plot of Ragna Crimson Episode 1: The story of Ragna Crimson centers around Ragna, a young and inexperienced dragon hunter, and Crimson, a formidable and treacherous dragon. Their unlikely alliance forms the heart of the narrative as they embark on a remarkable journey. While the plot may seem straightforward, it's enriched with emotional depth and thrilling action sequences. Why should you watch Ragna Crimson? What sets Ragna Crimson apart is its exploration of the human condition. In a world on the brink of extinction due to dragon attacks, humanity fights back, and Ragna's quest for strength to protect his loved ones takes center stage. The story kicks off when Ragna joins forces with Leonica, one of the world's most skilled dragon hunters, on a mission to vanquish a dragon. However, Ragna's life takes a dramatic turn when he is saved by the enigmatic Crimson, a dragon who defies his own kind. This unexpected rescue leads to a reluctant partnership as Crimson offers to train Ragna. As Ragna gains strength and experience under Crimson's guidance, he begins to uncover the complex motives behind the dragons' actions. The dragons, initially portrayed as malevolent creatures, reveal hidden layers that challenge Ragna's perception of his mission. Cast of Ragna Crimson: The anime boasts a talented cast, including Chikai Kobayashi as Laguna, Ayumu Murase as Crimson, and Inori Minase as Leonika, among others. Behind the scenes, the series is helmed by director Ken Takahashi, with character design by Shinpei Aoki and screenplay by Deko Akao. With its enthralling plot, intriguing characters, and stellar production team, Ragna Crimson Episode 1 promises to be a must-watch for anime enthusiasts and fans of the manga alike. 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! Actor Kusha Kapila has responded when asked whom she takes relationship advice from. Speaking with Curly Tales, Kusha also gave a message to the trolls. Kusha parted ways with her husband Zorawar Ahluwalia in June this year. (Also Read | Kusha Kapila on her divorce being dissected online) Kusha Kapila's film Thank You For Coming will release in theatres next month.(Getty Images via AFP) Kusha talks about relationship advice Kusha was asked whom would she approach to take relationship advice. The actor laughed and fumbled before replying, "I don't know. My friends." When asked about the 'way to her heart', Kusha replied "through conversations". Kusha has message for trolls She was asked if she had a message for trolls. Kusha replied with a smile, "Karte raho, hum apna karte rahenge (You keep doing yours, we will keep doing ours). We both have a job to do." Kusha chose Italy when asked about the one place where she would like to stay. Kusha earlier spoke about being a public person Recently, talking with Zoom, she said, I do understand that this is a part of being a public person like if youre profiting off being a public person, I understand that this is now a part of that. Kuch toh log kahenge logon ka kaam hai kehna (it is the job of the people to comment) and which was going to happen. I think my life now is in the service of making my skin thicker and thicker every day. And thats just what I work towards literally every day I have to be immune, I have to be thick-skinned and the scars will begin to heal soon enough." Kusha issued clarification on dating Arjun Kapoor A few weeks ago, Kusha reacted after reports emerged that she was dating actor Arjun Kapoor. A Free Press Journal report also quoted her as saying, Every time I read sh*t about myself I just hope and pray ki meri mummy na padh le yeh aab. Unki social life has taken a big hit (hope my mother does not read it). Kusha's films Kusha was recently seen with Shilpa Shetty in Sukhee. It also stars Chaitanya Chaudhary, Amit Sadh, and Kiran Kumar in pivotal roles. The film is hit theatres on September 22. Sukhee marks the directorial debut of Sonal Joshi and is produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Vikram Malhotra, and Shikhaa Sharma. Apart from Sukhee, Kusha will be seen in Thank You For Coming. The film also features Bhumi Pednekar, Dolly Singh, Shibani Bedi, Pradhuman Singh Mall, Natasha Rastogi, Gautmik, Sushant Divgikar, Saloni Daini, Dolly Ahluwalia, and Karan Kundrra. Recently, the movie premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2023. Karan Boolani has directed the film, which will be out on October 6. 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 'We can fight this war with science'. 'This is not a bio war, this is info war'. 'India can do it'. These are some of the phrases that we hear throughout The Vaccine War. Based on the book Going Viral by Prof Balram Bhargava, Director General, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), this Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri directorial is an attempt to shift light from naysayers to celebrating the efforts of unsung heroes, frontline workers and relentless scientists who didn't rest for months in a bid to create India's indigenous COVID-19 vaccine, Covaxin. Agnihotri narrates the ordeal, struggle and eventual success of these women scientists who believed that India, too, can have its own vaccine and not rely on of foreign organizations. The Vaccine War review: Nana Patekar plays a scientist in the film. Parts of The Vaccine War try to acquaint us with the lives of scientists and some sequences will even remind you of Mission Mangal. And in other parts, the film attempts to erase the allegations that the government faced and used media as the scapegoat. Agnihotri doesn't hesitate in highlighting the episodes when the central government faced massive flak for inadequately handling the pandemic that in turn led to loss of several human lives. Does it get preachy? Yes. Not in its dialogues maybe, but definitely in the undertone. There's a large sequence detailing the step-by-step making of Covaxin that was developed by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with ICMR and National Institute of Virology (NIV). Even when inside the science labs, Agnihotri doesn't let go of the human emotions excitement on a breakthrough, helplessness when results are delayed, anger when a senior puts pressure, tears when you empathize with fellow scientists who are tired after multiple sleepless nights. These small yet significant moments make this science film and humanist drama. Having said that, the film involves way too much science and terms used in laboratories, and it can be a bit too much to take in all at once in the first half. But once the stages of isolating the coronavirus and the process of developing the vaccines take over, things start to seem much simpler. The narrative is ably supported by strong characters that are as real as it gets. The way Agnihotri puts light on the issues scientists faces both in their laboratories and at home, moves you. The storytelling is simple and never too complicated. The dialogues are hard-hitting and impactful. Nana Patekar as Dr Balram Balram Bhargava and Pallavi Joshi as Dr. Priya Abraham, Director-NIV, are the soul of the film, and don't miss a single chance to impress with their tremendous acts. You feel their pain, their joy, their angst and their pride. From Patekar's subtle body language to Joshi's dialogue delivery, it's a delight to watch these ace performances. Girija Oak Godbole as Dr. Nivedita Gupta, ICMR portrays her part beautifully and is nothing short of a soldier fighting on the war front. Nivedita Bhattacharya as Dr Pragya, NIV, is equally convincing trying to maintain a work-life balance with her share of ups and downs. Raima Sen as journalist Rohini Singh Dhulia has a powerful screen presence, and the grey shades of her character are highlighted cleverly. A scene from The Vaccine War. At 2 hours 40 minutes, the film is a tad long for the story it sets out to show. The first half is dull especially when ICMR and NIV are trying to find a middle path to conduct various tests on the novel virus. The second half get better. Though it ends up being primarily a one-sided account where media is blamed for setting a negative narrative against the vaccine, it is also a sharp commentary on the system and its loopholes. The Vaccine War also rides high on conspiracy theories which became a norm during the pandemic could coronavirus be man-made in labs, could it be result of a lab leak, do pharma lobbies exist that don't promote indigenous vaccines and focus on media trials that can turn truth into lies and vice versa, remains the core of the film. Through Raima Sen's character, Agnihotri openly calls out Indian journalists who stood in way of India's struggle to create their own vaccine. Without batting an eyelid, the film labels media as malicious with their vested interests. In fact, they are called more dangerous than the actual coronavirus and needs to be shut down soon. The a press conference sequence and the subsequent speeches by Nana Patekar and Pallavi Joshi's characters offer the perfect stage for a climax. That being said, there are several arguments from Agnihotri that do not hold any evidence, and looks like a lot of creative liberty is applied. The Vaccine War is a must watch for its sole intention to tell us about the hardships, efforts and struggles of the medical and scientific communities. It may be triggering if you have lost someone close to this deadly virus, but it lets you appreciate that creating a vaccine in time saved several other lives. Try and go with an open-minded and not get worked up watching the portions where the film gets one-sided whether in favour of the government or against the media. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON American businesswoman and socialite Kylie Jenner, 26, attended the Paris Fashion Week show on Wednesday for Acen Studios, as the face of their brand. Though the media personality rocked her look, fans can not help but be worried for her as she hid much of her face from the cameras. The cosmetic mogul and celebrity adorned a bright red dress, covering her body in a large, floor-length gown. She completed the look with pointy red heels and a matching purse, with much darker hair in long choppy bangs. Though the media personality rocked her look, fans can not help but be worried for her as she hid much of her face from the cameras. While the long fringes covered her forehead, her eyes and cheeks were hidden by a pair of large black shades, leaving only her lips on display. "Since when has she ever covered her face this much for an event?" asked a fan on Reddit. Fan Reactions A fan on Reddit, noticed the unusual sight of Kylie's hidden face and blamed her rumoured surgeries for it: "Since when has she ever covered her face this much for an event? She knows shes botched herself. I actually find this really depressing." Responding to the same, another wrote: "Since the dress with the lion head. I'm assuming she is terrified of another daylight pics, so she preferred to cover all her face instead. "Edit: which is sad, nobody should have to feel that way, but she did it to herself." "I cant get over spending so much to change your face but still having to cover it up because you dont want people seeing the unfiltered/photoshopped version. Its bonkers," lamented another fan. Surgery Overhaul Along with noticing changes in her face, many are certain that Jylie has undergone a surgery overhaul. Earlier this month, the celebrity was spotted walking around Los Angeles in tight black pants and a crop top. Fans noticed that her boob and butts looked smaller and came to the conclusion that she had gotten her implant removed to appear more petite-framed. "This just screams 'showing off the work I had done' walk," joked a person on social media. Malayalam movie 2018, starring Tovino Thomas, is India's official entry for the Oscars, marking yet another milestone in the career of the actor known for essaying a wide array of roles in a relatively short time span. Set against the backdrop of the devastating floods in Kerala in 2018, the movie directed by Jude Anthany Joseph, features an ensemble cast including Kunchacko Boban, Asif Ali and Lal. (Also Read: Tovino Thomas' Malayalam disaster drama 2018 is India's official entry to Oscars 2024) Tovino Thomas' 2018 has been selected as India's official Oscars entry The movie showcases how the people of Kerala overcame the tumultuous period by staying on as a single unit fighting the natures rage. In this exclusive interview, Tovino Thomas, currently in Amsterdam to receive the award for the Best Asian Actor at the Septimius Awards 2023, talks about the movie 2018, his growth as an actor, and the kind of cinema that he would like to attempt in future. Excerpts: Congratulations Tovino. Not only have you won an international award for the movie 2018, but also the same film has now been picked as the official Indian entry for the Oscars. This was a difficult movie to plan and execute, wasnt it? Many things could have gone wrong from a technical standpoint, considering you were filming a big natural disaster, but the team pulled it off. There were many people who advised director Jude Anthany Joseph not to go ahead with the movie. Many thought it would be impossible to film it. But the director was confident about his technical prowess and my duty was to give him moral support. The producers, Venu Kunnappilly and Anto Joseph, were ready to give us all the resources possible. They went all out in supporting us throughout the shoot. We were able to recreate a real-life flood scenario on the sets and that translated into some stunning images on screen. Our message was loud and clear. We showed immense unity on the sets and the team work was excellent. Though this was a multi-starrer, dates of the various actors were managed very well. Many of them worked through minor health concerns, as no one wanted to disturb the rhythm of the shoot. Please note that usually the budget of Malayalam movies is the same as the promotional budgets of some of the Hindi movies! In this case we had a bigger budget to rely on but we took full responsibility for it. Your stature as an actor has been growing steadily. Will some these accolades put more pressure on your career? How do you plan to handle the new expectations? Appreciation is my fuel. I work hard for the recognition and every role I get is an opportunity to impress people. My responsibility is to ensure that the film reaches a wider audience. In fact, my focus is completely on movies and I dont take in any unnecessary stress. My family, friends and movies are my world. I do not plan too ahead and hence, I am relaxed. Indian cinema is a diverse industry. We have movies coming out in so many languages. That way, we are different from Iranian cinema or Korean cinema. However, since our industry is so diverse, we dont seem to have a clear stamp of what Indian cinema is, on an international stage. Our culture is multi-layered and we are appreciating the work thats happening in every industry, whether its South Indian movies or Bollywood. As far as Malayalam movies are concerned, we have always produced great content. All our senior actors and directors have shown us the way in creating magic on screen with shoestring budgets. The more local the subject, the more impact well create internationally. You have been an outsider in the industry with no filmi connections. How difficult was the struggle? I was always willing to adapt. If you are pure at heart and have the right intentions, chances are that you will do well in any walk of life, provided you also work hard at it. I dont design a project and take it on. Instead, my process is more organic. Yes, it was a struggle in the beginning but now, Im living my dream. My friends in the industry have also played a big role. Someone like director Basil Joseph, for instance. I met him for the first time when he came to narrate Godha. Later, we worked together in Minnal Murali. We both clicked because both of us came from small towns in Kerala wanting to make it big in the industry and were sincere in our approach. The budgets available to the Malayalam movie industry are growing. Thats going to add more strength to the creative strength of everyone involved. Yes, thats a fact. We will able to mount bigger movies in the future, thanks to the bigger economic potential. But well always be content-driven. Actor Nayanthara and her husband-filmmaker Vignesh Shivan recently celebrated their twins, Uyir and Ulags, first birthday. On Thursday, taking to Instagram, Vignesh shared a new picture of the family celebrating the occasion in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, along with several other people. (Also Read | Nayanthara, Vignesh Shivan celebrate their babies' first birthday by sharing adorable pics with 'lovely boys') Vignesh Shivan and Nayanthara with their sons Uyir and Ulag. Vignesh shares a new pic In the photo, Nayanthara held one of her sons in her arms while Vignesh wrapped his arm around his other son as they stood in a room. A huge table laden with many cakes and gifts was seen in front of them. The cakes were forest-themed and also teddy bear-themed. The room was decorated with white and blue balloons. 'Happy Birthday' ballloons were also seen kept behind them. Many people gathered around the family, seemingly the staff of The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur where they celebrated the occasion. Vignesh pens a note Nayanthara, Vignesh, Uyir and Ulag were all dressed in white and blue outfits. Sharing the post, Vignesh captioned it, "That was a dreamy birthday. @gtholidays.in you are amazing in giving us the right spot for every special occasion. This palace @stregiskl was the ideal spot for our special day! Thank you. Thank you for all the lovely arrangements on top of it! You are our one-stop shop for any of our travel plans." Vignesh recently shared pic of his sons Recently, Vignesh shared a string of pictures on Instagram of their kids and captioned it, En Mugam Konda .. En Uyir En Gunam Konda En Ulag (Waited for a long time to post these lines and our pics together my lovely boys) Happy birthday my dear Sons Uyir RudroNeel & Ulag Daiwik." "@nayanthara Appa and Amma love U2 beyond what words could explain! Beyond anything and everything in this life! Thank You 2 for coming into our lives and making it soo happy! U have brought in all the positivity and blessings, this 1 full year has been filled with moments to cherish for a lifetime! Love you 2! You are our world & our blessed life, he added. Nayanthara and Vignesh married in Chennai on June 9, 2022. Last year the couple welcomed their sons via surrogacy. 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 Tamil actor Vijay Antony is back at work, days after the death of his young daughter. The actor's daughter Meera died by suicide on September 19. She was 16 years old. (Also read: Vijay Antony issues first statement after daughter Meera's death: 'I have died along with her') Vijay Antony is back at work and giving interviews about his movie. Producer G Dhananjeyan took to Twitter to share a few pictures from the promotional interviews for upcoming film Raththam, that stars Vijay. He wrote, True example of professionalism, care for his Producers & Audience by @vijayantony sir - supporting our film #Raththam by being a part of promotional interviews with @csamudhan @ @Mahima_Nambiar today to various channels. A great inspiration & benchmark for the industry, by the man who rises above his personal tragedy to support his Team . Thank you sir. While a few fans praised the actor for braving though the heartbreak and returning to work, others thought it was a bit too early still. A person said that if someone else in his position chose to take longer time off work after such a tragedy, it would not make them any less professional. A tweet read, Sir totally respect your good intentions, but when theres so much stress on the need for mental health, we shouldnt glorify people working or having to work through unimaginably painful personal losses. Nothing in life is as important as what hes going through now. Another person wrote, Agreed. It's up to the respective person, and we shouldn't judge a person's professionalism in such circumstances. Having said that I truly hope that VA's decision to show up for the promotion gives him some relief. Most, however, said that it must be left on the person to choose how they wish to heal. Grief is personal. Im not saying prioritising other things over emotions is the right thing to do but its not wrong too! We cannot generalise human behaviour when theyre undergoing trauma, whatever works for the individual. More strength to him, read a tweet. A few days after Meera's death, the Tamil actor issued an emotional statement on social media. In the post written in Tamil, Vijay Antony spoke highly of his daughter. The statement in Tamil is loosely translated as "My Daughter Meera is such an affectionate and brave girl. She is now in a better and peaceful place where there won't be caste, creed, money, jealousy, pain. She is still talking to me. I died with her. I have now started spending time for her. I will now do good things on her behalf." 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 A Sparta man has been arrested on felony and misdemeanor charges, including destruction of property, for actions during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. According to a press release from the U.S Department of Justice, he and others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to count the electoral votes of the 2020 presidential election. Charles R. Walters, 37, is charged in a criminal complaint filed in the District of Columbia with one felony offense of destruction of government property. In addition to the felony, Walters is charged with several misdemeanors, including entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds, disorderly or disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, and disorderly conduct in the Capitol grounds or buildings, and parading, demonstrating, or picketing in a Capitol building. Walters was arrested Wednesday in Wisconsin and made his initial appearance in the Western District of Wisconsin federal courthouse in Madison. According to court documents, on Jan. 6, 2021, Walters was identified via multiple open-source videos and body-worn camera footage from U.S. Capitol police officers as among a crowd of rioters on the west front of the U.S. Capitol building. Walters destroyed fencing near a police line by kicking and stomping on it, DOJ prosecutors allege. Afterward, Walters climbed the inaugural stage risers and made entry into the Capitol building wearing a helmet and ballistic-style vest in a stack formation with other rioters. He remained on Capitol grounds until forced to leave by police as darkness was falling. Court documents state images from several sources show he was wearing a black riot-style helmet, black ballistic-style vest, grey hooded hacket, tan pants, and a blue backpack. This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia with assistance from the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Wisconsin. This case is being investigated by the FBIs Milwaukee and Washington Field Offices with assistance from the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department. In the 32 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,100 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 396 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing. Multiple farmers' organisations started a three-day rail blockade from Thursday, marking their stance on various pressing demands like a financial package for losses caused by recent floods, legal guarantee for MSP and waiver of debt. The rail roko will take place at 12 places in Punjab including Moga, Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, Jalandhar, Tarn Taran, Sangrur, Patiala, Ferozepur, Bathinda, and Amritsar. (File) Announced by Sarwan Singh Pandher,general secretary of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, this decision was unveiled following a pivotal gathering of representatives hailing from 19 distinct farmers' groups, news agency PTI reported. While the majority of the participating farmer bodies are from Punjab, the movement has garnered support from farmers' outfits from Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, among others. Pandher told PTI that the farmers were demanding financial relief packages for flood-affected individuals across north India and a legally binding assurance for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) across all crop categories, as well as comprehensive debt waivers among other things. The rail roko will take place at 12 places in Punjab including Moga, Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, Jalandhar, Tarn Taran, Sangrur, Patiala, Ferozepur, Bathinda, and Amritsar. Among the farmer bodies supporting the movement are the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, Bharti Kisan Union (Krantikari), Bharti Kisan Union (Ekta Azaad), Azaad Kisan Committee Doaba, Bharti Kisan Union (Behramke), Bharti Kisan Union (Shaheed Bhagat Singh), Bharti Kisan Union (Chottu Ram), Kisan Mahapanchayat (Haryana), Pagri Sambhal Jatta (Haryana), Progressive Farmer Front (Uttar Pradesh), Bhoomi Bachao Muhim (Uttarakhand) and the Rashtriya Kisan Sangathan (Himachal Pradesh). Earlier this month, a group of about 100 farmers staged a rail roko protest in Maharashtra's Sangli district against the acquisition of land by the railways. Due to the protests, the Kolhapur-Gondia Maharashtra Express halted for over four hours in the Bhilwadi-Nandre area in Palus tehsil. The Maharashtra farmers have demanded that their additional land be acquired by the railways and hence a joint measurement for the same was in an ongoing consultation with the district administration. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON PULLAD: The day was May 26, 2006, and Unnikrishnan Nair P, then a 24-year-old, remembers it like yesterday. That year, the southwest monsoon had not made its official onset over the state, but its imminent arrival brought dark rain clouds over the small village of Pullad in Keralas Pathanamthitta district. PREMIUM The house in the small village of Pullad in Keralas Pathanamthitta district where the murder took place(Courtesy: The Author) It was just pouring that day. I was chatting with my friends at a shop that I ran when someone came running and frantically told us that Remadevi (50), the mother of one of my classmates, had been found murdered at her home. I knew the family and so I immediately ran to their house to find Remadevi lying face down near the dining table with a pool of blood around her, said Unnikrishnan, currently a ward member of the local Koyipuram panchayat where Pullad is located. There was a deep wound around her neck as if someone sliced it with a sharp object. Her relatives tried to take her to a hospital, but she was almost decapitated so they put her down near the homes entrance. It was clear she had died by then. I went to the police and informed them about the murder, he said. Even as her family members wailed and expressed grief, Remadevis husband Janardhanan Nair, who claimed to be the first to see his wifes body, stood emotionless. He wasnt crying. But thats how he has always been. He doesnt talk to people a lot and he doesnt smile much. People knew his character so there was nothing to suspect, Unnikrishnan said. Police officers soon came to the spot, completed inquest proceedings and signed off on the autopsy. A gold necklace belonging to Remadevi had gone missing and so it was initially construed that a theft had resulted in the murder. And then, within a couple of days of the incident, a labourer named Chudalamuthu, who worked on an under-construction building next to Remadevis home, went missing along with a woman he was staying with. The locals suspicions squarely fell on Chudalamuthu who reportedly also had past complaints against him in other areas with respect to his dealings with women. The police, duly alerted by locals and pressured by political higher-ups, focused their investigation on finding Chudalamuthu who became their main suspect. Successive officers probing the case searched multiple locations across Kerala and Tamil Nadu to find clues of Chudalamuthu, but he was never found. In 2007, the crime branch took over the case spurred by Janardhanan Nairs appeal in the high court, but nothing substantial came of it. On July 11, 2023, the crime branch team led by Inspector Sunil Raj made a startling announcement: they arrested Janardhanan Nair, now 75 and retired from the postal department, for his wife Remadevis murder. The evidence: clumps of hair retrieved from the hands of the dead homemaker and testimony from Chudalamuthus partner. A combination of neglect on the part of successive probe teams, long-standing prejudice about interstate workers and the devious tactics of Janardhanan Nair led to the murder case staying unsolved for 17 years. Remadevi, the victim Cracking the case On a drizzly morning earlier this month, Inspector Raj was busy attending phone calls at the crime branch office in Thiruvalla. The chargesheet in the Remadevi murder case was being prepared and he had to make sure there were no loopholes before it was sent to his superiors office before being submitted in court. After attending to a few matters, Raj sat down at his small table to talk about the most challenging case of his career. I took up the investigation in July 2022 and it was tough, this is perhaps one of the most convoluted cases in the states history, he said. According to the police, Chudalamuthu, a migrant worker from a village in Thoothukudi district of Tamil Nadu, had started working at an under-construction house next to Remadevis home a few days before her murder. He was a known womaniser and had relationships with several women. After he started working in Pullad, locals had seen him interacting with Remadevi several times. He was using an abandoned bathroom in her compound to store his tools. When he went missing following the murder, the locals presumed he was a suspect because he had a not-so-good history with women too, said Raj. The investigations thus for the next decade were centred on finding Chudalamuthu as he was considered the main and only suspect. He has not been found yet, and frankly, we are not sure if he is dead or alive. We went to his hometown in Tamil Nadu and his family said he has not come home even once in the past 17 years. We found Arputhamani, the woman he was staying with, who claimed that Chudalamuthu didnt kill Remadevi. She told us she left with Chudalamuthu the day after the murder, the inspector added. If someone commits a murder, he/she would not wait till the next day to escape. With no leads on Chudalamuthu and amid signs of the probe going cold, an action council, comprising locals including Unnikrishnan, was formed to exert pressure on the police to catch the culprits. From the locals perspective, the shocking killing of an innocuous homemaker had spread fear within the community and a speedy police investigation was necessary to instil confidence among the public. In 2007, persuaded by the locals, Nair filed a petition in the Kerala high court (HC) demanding that the case be handed over to the crime branch division. But even before HC ruled, the then-state government directed the crime branch to take over the probe. The most important scientific piece of evidence, retrieved from the body that successive police units either deliberately or unintentionally chose to ignore, was clumps of hair found within the fists of both hands of the victim. In one fist, there were 36 hair follicles and in the other, four hair follicles. Inspector Raj said, "For some reason, there was no proper investigation done on the hairs. The hair samples had been collected by the scientific assistant and submitted in court which was then sent to the forensic laboratory. When we revisited the May 2010 forensic report, it had clearly said that the hair follicles found in Remadevis hands were similar to the sample scalp hairs of her husband. Naturally, that means there was a scuffle between them and she yanked the hairs off his head when he attacked her with a knife. After the murder, her hands experienced cadaveric spasm, a condition where muscles stiffen and become rigid, leading to her fists remaining closed and possibly preventing Nair from spotting the hair follicles. The forensic tests proved that the hair follicles retrieved from the victims fists were actually grey hair that had been dyed black. We found that Nair used to dye his hair at the time. The Tamil man on the other hand was just 26 and couldnt have dyed hair. That was another reason to strike out Chudalamuthus involvement, said Raj. Janardhanan Nair, the accused Shifting the needle of suspicion The police also said that there were striking contradictions in the testimony given by Nair. The officer declined to divulge them stating that it would affect the trial in the case. But one of them, HT learnt, was how he had claimed to have opened the front door of the house when he got back from work the day of the murder. Being an old traditional tile-roofed house, there are grills on top of the main door. While Nair said that he opened the latch by slipping his hand through the grill, in reality, before the police officers back in 2006, he could not do it as he claimed. This, police argued, effectively disproved the theory that all doors of the house were locked from inside. Nair also tried to pin the blame for the murder on Chudalamuthu by dumping his plastic cap, a broken watch and a towel near the crime spot. He deliberately planted these items near the crime spot to bring the focus of the probe onto the Tamil worker. There was a lot of confusion for the police officers who initially probed the case, said Raj. The motive for the murder, the crime branch officer claimed, was Nairs deep suspicions over Remadevis fidelity. During his time in the postal services, Nair would often undertake long journeys to different states to impart training to officers. During these periods, Remadevi was alone at home and often attended bhajans in the neighbourhood without asking for his consent. Arguments began to prop up between them over his suspicions about her. But no one knew on the outside. He had set up a caller ID on the landline phone as there were unknown calls coming in. She had also suffered a tubular pregnancy which was treated far away at a government hospital in Kottayam. These issues led to marital discord between them and were the cause of his enmity towards her, said the officer. Police said they have evidence of Nair cleaning the murder weapon and throwing it in a well in the compound as well as washing the blood off his clothes. After several rounds of questioning, during which Nair could not reportedly provide proper answers to back his claims, his arrest was recorded on July 11. Currently housed in the sub-jail in Kottarakkara, his petition for bail was rejected for the third time by a local court on September 18. He has been charged under sections 302 (murder) and 201 (destruction of evidence) of the IPC. Like it happened yesterday In Pullad, a village 13 kilometres from the nearest major town of Thiruvalla, the murder of Remadevi may have occurred 17 years ago but almost everyone can give directions to where it happened. Such is the popularity of the case and the recent arrest of Nair has heightened interest in the village. Just walk on this road for around 500 metres and you will reach a small junction where you need to turn left, walk for around 50 metres and then take another left. Ask anyone there, an autorickshaw driver said, helpfully. But today, the sole marker of the spot where the horrific murder took place is an old, abandoned well overrun by weeds and other wild growth. Within two years of his wifes murder, Nair had demolished the house and sold off the 1.5-acre property to a real estate firm which is currently building independent homes on the plot. He initially bought a home near his sons residence in Thrissur and subsequently a few years later, bought another house near his daughters residence in Aranmula from where he was arrested. Both his children were unavailable for comment. A man who ran a spare parts shop just a few metres away from Nairs home said, Janardhanan Nair was a reserved person who hardly spoke to anyone. They were a financially-strong family and their relatives owned a lot of land here. At the time of the incident, all suspicions were on the Tamil worker who escaped. But now they are saying he killed his wife. We dont know what to believe. Similarly, a woman, who operated a small restaurant in Pullad, remarked, He belongs to our community and I knew their family. But in this day and age, can anyone guess what a person is thinking in his/her mind? Police say that he killed her and the circumstantial evidence is against him. Well see what happens in court. In court, Janardhanan Nair is likely to plead not guilty. But Inspector Raj is quietly confident that the stack of evidence against him will demolish the accuseds claims. We could have pinned the blame on the Tamil worker and dropped out of the case. But I have been taught that an investigative officer should be the eyes, ears, and tongue of the murder victim. She is long dead and now we have to serve her justice, he said. Continue reading with HT Premium Subscription Daily E Paper I Premium Articles I Brunch E Magazine I Daily Infographics Subscribe Now @1199/year Already Subscribed? Sign In SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON A passenger travelling on a San Fransisco-bound Air India flight faced with a harrowing incident which eventually rendered her bed-ridden. Charu Tomar, the flyer headed to the US from New Delhi, said on a X (formerly Twitter) how a flight allendant spilled hot water on her leg and left it unattended, proving their lack of training and professionalism. Air India (REUTERS) The flyer was travelling with her four-year-old son and 83-year-old mother-in-law. She found herself in an afflicting situation when she felt excutiating pain after hot water being spilled on her right leg. To my shock, the crew members initially ran away from the situation. Furthermore, she observed slow response and inadequate efforts from the crew despite her pleas to provide immediate cooling agents to the injury. After screaming and crying for help, Tomar was offered medical assistance by a physician on board and diagnosed her with second-degree burn and attempted to provide care. However, the flight lacked essential medical supplies, and the treatment was far from ideal I endured severe pain for nearly two hours in flight with no pain medication or proper first aid kit available, the flyer added. Upon landing, she added that the crew seemed more interested in preparing for landing than in my ongoing distress. A team of paramedics evacuated her. She also said that no assistance was provided to her family members, leaving them alone and unaware of what was happening. Responding to the incident, Air India expressed its apology and said the airline has taken a serious note of the incident. The crew immediately administered first aid to the guest and paged for a doctor on board, who attended to the affected guest. A team of paramedics assisted the guest upon arrival at San Francisco. We have expressed our sincere apologies to the guest, whom our teams have been in touch with to offer all further assistance, including medical care, the Air India spokesperson said. The Bharatiya Janata Party, which was blindsided by the AIADMK announcing an exit from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) earlier this week, has deployed its central leadership to mend the ties with the former ally, people familiar with the matter said on Wednesday. The party has begun a stocktaking exercise of the events that led to the allies falling out, party functionaries said, adding that a union minister, who is a senior party leader, is expected to submit a report on the ground situation, the concerns of the former ally, and the response from the party cadre. (HT Archive) The party has begun a stocktaking exercise of the events that led to the allies falling out, party functionaries said, adding that a union minister, who is a senior party leader, is expected to submit a report on the ground situation, the concerns of the former ally, and the response from the party cadre. On Monday, AIADMK announced a formal separation from NDA, accusing the BJPs TN leadership of not showing respect to its past and present leaders. The party also announced that it will be contesting the 2024 election with its other allies. The AIADMK leadership in the past conveyed to the BJP their discomfort with its state unit president K Annamalais over his statements on the Dravidian partys s leaders. Also Read: Blamed by AIADMK, Tamil Nadu BJP chief says Delhi leaders will respond to split According to a senior BJP leader, the central leadership of the party has stepped in to salvage the situation, expecting the two sides to bury the hatchet and begin afresh. The central leadership is very keen on saving the alliance and that is why all the state leaders have been told not to comment on the alliance. Meetings... will take place over the course of the week and a decision announced, the leader quoted above said on condition of anonymity. A second leader also speaking on condition of anonymity said, while the central leadership has been made aware of the growing friction between the allies, particularly over the BJP state chiefs utterances, the situation was allowed to deteriorate. Also Read: Decoding the poll impact of AIADMKs split with NDA The central leadership has made it clear that they do not want the alliance to break. But the state president is young and inexperienced... Senior leaders in the state are not consulted, and it seems the president lacks guidance, the second functionary said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The two most sought-after electoral segments in India currently -- women and people hailing from the backward castes -- are expected to be favoured by the Bharatiya Janata Party in ticket distribution for the Telangana assembly elections due in December this year. The candidates list for Telangana assembly polls shall be finalised after a meeting with BJP president JP Nadda scheduled for October 4. (PTI) Two senior BJP leaders familiar with the development confirmed that 30% of the tickets will be given to women, and more than 35% of the tickets for OBCs. Data recorded at the time of Telanganas formation in 2014 indicated that women account for 43% of the states 40 million population. The OBCs -- a powerful section that outnumbers all other castes by totalling up to 54% -- are influential and can dictate which way the political weathercock makes flight. The nuts and bolts of ticket distribution and the candidates list shall be finalised after the all-hands meet with BJP president JP Nadda scheduled for October 4. We are also waiting for the election commission to announce the poll dates after which we will make the list public, said NV Subash, Telangana BJP spokesperson. In the 2018 election, 32 out of a total 119 seats were given to the OBCs by the BJP accounting to 27% of the seats. What also lends credence to BJPs idea behind the practice of granting a higher number of seats to OBCs is that three of its five members of parliament (MPs) are from the backward communities. While Lok Sabha members Bandi Sanjay and Arvind Dharmapuri belong to the Munnaru Kapu communities, Rajyasabha member K Laxman, who is the national president for the BJPs OBC Morcha, is fromthe Madiga caste - a sub-caste of Dalits. Laxman was nominated to the Rajya Sabha from Uttar Pradesh. Dharmapuri had defeated chief minister K Chandrashekar Raos (KCR) daughter K Kavitha in Nizamabad in the 2019 parlimentary elections with a margin of 70,875 votes. The BJP would be counting on is former health minister Etela Rajendar from powerful Mudiraj community (sub-sect of the OBCs) who defected from the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) in 2021. Etela, a six-time legislator and a three-time minister, is considered KCRs fellow-general in the statehood movement. His hopping over to the BJP was seen as a hopeful indication of the transfer of OBC votes to the party that polled just 6.98% of the total votes in the 2018 elections. In the last two elections since 2014, the BRS has increasingly counted on the OBC votes with KCR dedicating once of his flagship schemes - Dalit Bandhu - to the OBC and dalit communities as beneficiaries. According to official data, there are 7,79,902 Dalit families with 13,58,000 acres of farm land across Telangana. In order to shore up votes from the OBCs, a special scheme called BC (Backward Caste) Bandhu scheme was introduced as part of the decennial celebrations of the state formation in June this year to extend 1 lakh as financial assistance to backward classes dependent on caste-based professions. The state received more than 532,000 applications for this scheme. After much scrutiny and field-level surveys, minister for BC welfare Gangula Kamalakar announced in July that 300 applicants from each of the 119 assembly constituencies will receive 1 lakh as assistance. However, despite the CM Chandrashekar Rao releasing 400 crore for this scheme, there has been much unrest in the constituencies with many deserving applicants complaining of being excluded from the scheme. Experts say OBC votes are crucial for KCR to return for the third time. With the BRS party unable to fully implement the Dalit Bandhu and the BC Bandhu schemes, lakhs of applications are pending before the government seeking allotment of the promised two-bedroom houses and patta lands. This has not gone down with the backward castes. Adding fuel to the fire, KCR, who is still smarting from Etela Rajendars jump to the BJP, has not allotted a single ticket to the powerful Mudiraj community. Theres little chance now for KCR to make up for this loss of goodwill, said Koteswara Rao, a political analyst. The BRS was quick to react when they heard of the BJPs ticket plan. If the BJP was so keen on OBC and Dalit uplift, why did they replace Bandi Sanjay with Kishan Reddy as the Telangana party chief? Their partys contribution to the development of the state has been so minimal and they do not have a narrative either. This is why they are having to resort to social engineering to be able to poll even a significant number of votes. Sravan Dasoju, BRS spokesperson said. The Congress, still feeling upbeat from the success of the Congress Working Committee meeting a few weeks earlier, targeted the BJP for its inability to include a reservation for OBCs in the recently passed Womens Reservation Bill. Former MP and Special Representative of the then Andhra Pradesh government in Delhi, Mallu Ravi, said, The BJP does not have winnable candidates in other segments of the social strata which is why they have come up with this political game. If they really wanted to empower the communities, they should have implemented the Womens Bill right away. The BJP has received more than 700 applications until 10 September from people wanting to contest the state election. With our Mahila Morcha having done extensive work in all the constituencies, we are looking to give new candidates a greater number of seats as well to encourage women, a senior party official said. The move to give 30% of its tickets to women will help the BJP score well on perception rankings. And it is the political hurdle that any party would like to cross in an election, Koteswara Rao said. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will override anti-incumbency to retain power in the state and set a new record of winning with a massive mandate just like it did in Gujarat, said Madhya Pradesh BJP unit president VD Sharma. Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) Madhya Pradesh unit president VD Sharma (Twitter Photo) He said he is confident that the work carried out by the BJP government in the state over the past few decades will help the party retain power. Sharma also dismissed the Congresss attempts to recast its outreach by wooing the Hindu vote bank as an example of their double-faced politics and said it will not cut ice with the voters. The scenario has changed, there is transformation in all sectors whether it is roads, utilities, healthcare, education, social welfare schemes and poverty alleviation programmes. How is it possible otherwise to have pulled out 10.36 million people from below poverty levels, he said. The BJP will mount its election campaign in the poll-bound state on the development agenda focusing on women-centric policies. Sharma, a lawmaker from Khajuraho said: The state has been head of others as far as agricultural growth is concerned. During the Congress rule, the industrial growth was in the negative and today it has increased to 24% (in 2022-23). In the agricultural sector, we have an 18% growth that is not ordinary. He cited the example of Gujarat, where the party won a record 156 seats out of 182, despite being in power for over 27 years. Fulfilling the promises to the electorate is our strength... our poll planks will be the social welfare schemes of the centre and state government that were designed for Jan Kalyan (welfare of the people), said Sharma. Amid reports of friction in the state unit and several state leaders pointing out concerns that the younger voters prefer a new face, Sharma refuted that there is a clamour for change in leadership, as ground reports suggest a fatigue factor associated with the incumbent CM Shivraj Singh Chauhan. Sharma also asserted that the election will be fought under the collective leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and CM Chauhan. The works carried out under the leadership of the chief minister are historic and have transformed the state from a BIMARU state to a developed state, said Sharma. The word BIMARU, an acronym for Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh was used to denote the lack of economic development and lag in sectors of education, healthcare and other indices. To a question on how a generational shift observed in other states, where younger and newer faces are given space, is yet to take place in MP, Sharma said: The new generation is emerging...but the decision on who will be the front runners for top posts will be decided by the parliamentary board and the central leadership. He also asserted that the BJP will not face any challenges from its leaders who have in recent weeks left the party fold. A few BJP members have eloped to the newly formed Janhit Party floated by Abhay Jain, a senior member of the Rashtriya Swayansewak Sangh * (RSS), the ideological fount of the BJP. The Janhit Party founder and members have been critical of the ruling BJP and have put on record that democratic practices are no longer followed. It is a democracy and people have a right to take the path they want...People sometimes act out of swarth (selfishness), such people come and go. While there is no anger or discontent over ticket distribution among the party workers, those who want to leave are free to do what they want, Sharma said. Responding to the allegations levelled by Jain and the impact it could have on the electoral fortunes of the party, Sharma said, In a democratic system all have a right to say what they want. He (Jain) is independent, he can do whatever. Sangh never puts restrictions on its swayamsevaks (volunteers) to work for the samaj (society), there are no restrictions and some swayamsevaks are in other parties as well, he said. The BJP will also focus on highlighting the failures of the Congress government, Sharma said. They did nothing during the 15 months that they were in power (2018-2020). Rs.200 crore that was provided to the state under the Jal Jeevan Mission was unspent and lapsed. Funds under several heads were sent back as they were not spent. There was rampant corruption, we have proof. Their own minister Govind Singh used to say, paisa upar tak jata hai (money reaches the top). On the Congress being perceived to make attempts to woo the Hindu vote bank and former CM Kamal Nath claiming, What is the point of making a Hindu nation, 82% are Hindus here, Sharma said the party has a dual stance on Hinduism. Congress has always had a double face. They believe in division and rule. People of this country are well aware of what both Kamal Nath and Digvijay Singh have said about Hindus and how they attack Hinduism. Just as they make false promises, they are doing this (woo Hindus) for electoral purposes. The minorities in MP asked Kamal Nath to explain his stance, he said. The elections are scheduled to be held in November to elect all 230 members of Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON S Jaishankar knows Washington DC well. He has been a two-time resident of the city (as a young officer in the 1980s and then ambassador from 2013-2015), a visitor for over four decades, and a student of American politics and foreign policy, which plays out often inside the Beltway. Three months ago, Jaishankar was in the US capital with PM Narendra Modi. (Reuters file photo) Three months ago, Jaishankar was in the US capital with PM Narendra Modi, and helped deliver among the most spectacular diplomatic successes of the government. Modi and Biden unveiled a vision of the world with India and the US as the closest partners, with their partnership touching every corner of human enterprise, from the seas to the stars. The two countries embarked on a new chapter in technology cooperation where the history of tech denial and mistrust gave way to the creation of trusted ecosystems with concrete initiatives. They broke through the barriers that have inhibited defence ties with the US recognising Indias concerns on tech transfer and co-production with specific agreements. They decided to work together on multilateral development bank reform, Indo-Pacific and G20. And the 58-paragraph joint statement was an illustration of the cooperation across space, climate, economic investments, trade, education, health, people to people links, and strategic convergences across geographies, platforms, and institutions between India and the US. Since then, US administration officials have told HT that their priority has been keeping up the momentum of ties rather than let inertia set in. On the Indian end too, from the moment the PM departed DC, his office and the ministry of external affairs have consistently followed up on translating intent into outcomes. Also Read:US says stand on Canada row already made clear, ahead of Jaishankar-Blinken meet Biden has visited India, and US flexibility helped in ensuring that the Indian presidency of G20 delivered the New Delhi Leaders Declaration. Biden and Modi also issued a second joint statement in less than three months, outlining progress on the initiative on critical and emerging technology (iCET) and announcing new initiatives. Other bilateral and plurilateral mechanisms have continued to work with swiftness that the bureaucratic machines in India and the US arent known for. But there is no doubt that since Bidens visit, Canadas public allegations linking agents of the government of India with the killing of a Canadian citizen on its soil a man officially designated as terrorist by India has emerged as a complicating factor in the relationship. Canada is USs closest ally. Turning a blind eye of an allegation of an extra judicial execution in a sovereign land is hard for a Democratic administration. In the US, India skeptics and Modi critics have sought to use this as a moment to attack the relationship. In India, speculation has grown that the US may have fed the definitive intelligence leading to Canadas allegations, even though two news reports on the evidence have clearly said that US provided contextual intelligence and not the signal intercepts that appear to form the basis of Canadas case, the strength of which isnt clear yet. There is also rising anger about what is seen as western hypocrisy or insensitivity to Indian security concerns. After six successful days in New York where India glowed due to the success of G20 and its championing of the global south at the UN, Jaishankar arrived in Washington DC on Wednesday evening with two key tasks sustaining the momentum in bilateral ties with the US and even deepening it, while compartmentalising and managing Canadian allegation. Sustaining momentum The good news is that both sides dont have to invent new ideas, though new ideas are always good. They have iCET in place which provides a solid foundational framework for ties. In his remarks in New York, Jaishankar unhesitatingly termed technology cooperation as the top priority in the relationship, and while speaking of Indias role as a bridge in another context, he said that tech was one area where India couldnt be in the middle but had to pick sides. Delhi, with its own innovations, has chosen to be a part of the broader western tech ecosystem, as opposed to the one being shepherded by Beijing. It is also striking that a majority of the pointers in the Biden-Modi joint statement from September in Delhi focus on iCET initiatives semiconductors, space, telecom networks, defence innovation, defence industrial cooperation, among others. Ensuring that both systems keep their eyes on the iCET ball will be key to sustaining the momentum in ties. The other priority area Jaishankar identified is political convergence on the global south, for it is in these 130-odd countries of Asia, Africa, Latin America, Caribbean and Pacific Islands that the real geopolitical battle of the future is being fought. Delhi has positioned itself as a voice of the global south, with much greater success than anticipated, and Washington is happy with the development since it would rather see Delhi make inroads than Beijing have a monopoly. At the same time, the US too has stepped up its engagement with all these regions, creating new institutional frameworks for cooperation. And this should make Delhi happy, because enhanced American engagement is the most effective antidote to Beijings resource advantage. Focusing on the complementarities who can do what where with whom better will help sustain ties. And of course, there is the direct threat from China. Jaishankar, in his remarks in New York, provided one of the most candid assessments from a top Indian figure on the state of the relationship. Going beyond terming ties abnormal, which the minister has consistently done, he pointed to the high level of military tensions, the lack of tenable Chinese explanations for its actions in 2020 despite being warned this could lead to trouble, the fact that troops remained amassed at the border, the disruption in contacts, the deep impact of Beijings actions on public perception of China in India, Chinas enhanced presence and activity in the Indian Ocean, the lack of attention paid to Chinese port development in the past but which India is now watching very carefully, and how India has to prepare for greater Chinese maritime presence in the region. All of this is a very clear signal from India to its citizens, to Beijing, to the world, and to Washington DC about its strategic calculations and choices. The US, too, despite its policy of engagement with China to manage competition, is under no illusion today about the Chinese intent and capabilities and has continued to take aggressive actions across the domain of investment and economy, technology restrictions, and building countervailing coalitions. Break down the Indo-Pacific strategy and look at what Biden has achieved a historic trilateral pact with South Korea and Japan, additional bases in Philippines, AUKUS (the nuclear submarine deal with Australia), enhanced diplomatic engagement and security and development presence in the Pacific Islands, a strategic partnership with Vietnam, continued engagement with ASEAN, and of course, investing in the India relationship. And therefore, shared concerns about Chinese activities continue to provide the basis to sustain the momentum in ties. India and the US are friends. But publicly sending a signal of this friendship is important in diplomacy for its impact on friends and adversaries, corporate investors and multilateral institutions, citizens and diaspora, military planners and financial markets, bureaucracies inside and strategic community outside. That is why Modis visit and then Bidens visit helped. And that is why it is now important to ensure that Bidens proposed visit to India on January 26 happens. With the US ambassador to India Eric Garcetti confirming what was a matter of speculation by saying that Modi has invited Biden, the US must accept the invitation to show that all is well in the relationship. Compartmentalising Canada All of this can happen if policymakers on both sides make a conscious choice to compartmentalise the Canada issue to its proper place in the relationship and not let it come in the way of the broader dynamic. This doesnt mean the issue can be ignored or will be ignored. It is sure to be a key subject of conversation between Jaishankar and his interlocutors, and it is bound to come up in his engagements with thinktanks and perhaps even business leaders privately. Make no mistake. The US administration isnt happy at the idea India may have engaged in such an action, though it doesnt appear too happy at Justin Trudeau going public with the allegations either. Voices on the Hill, which is fortunately distracted because of a political impasse over spending and fear of a looming government shutdown, are growing on the issue. And the American press wont let the administration forget the issue in a hurry. But any conversation between the two sides has to come from a place of relative trust, or whatever degree of trust is possible in the ugly and murky world of international politics. While conspiracy theories are gaining traction in Delhi about USs role, it may be useful for the Indian side to remember three things. One, Washington clearly had the information about Canadas allegations before the G20 summit; yet it did not let it define its attitude and accommodative approach and instead helped India achieve a big win. Two, the five top people in the administrations national security complex Biden himself, NSA Jake Sullivan, Secretary of State Antony J Blinken, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J Austin, and Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) director Bill Burns are all invested in the relationship with India and have put in their personal and political capital to deepen ties; it is not in the interest of any of these top officials to create a crisis with India. And three, the US is completely aware that China is the prime beneficiary of any sign of rift between India and the US and therefore has so invested so much in projecting a narrative of the US-India relationship being the most consequential of the century. It doesnt want to undo that narrative at all. What the American side has to realise is that India isnt Russia or China, it isnt Israel or Saudi Arabia, and it isnt the US either. It is a careful power with a pretty solid track record of living by the rules of the international order, but it has a deep sense of insecurity when it comes to secessionist movements and terrorism and violence, given both Partition and what the Indian state has had to confront for 75 years. This doesnt justify any alleged action it may have taken but it will help keep things in perspective. Then comes the diplomatic challenge. One, can the US and India find a modus vivendi which takes into account Canadas public allegations, Americas public appeal, and Indias stated position? Two, even if they cant find a common formulation in public, and will express their respective positions, is it possible to have a private understanding not to allow the issue to escalate (which will also require Americans to tell the Canadians to calm down) and find a way to pursue the investigative path officially between governments, in private, over time? And finally, is it possible for US and Canada to take visible and effective actions against suspected terrorists and extremists as a signal, in return for Indian cooperation in the affair? The mechanics of any resolution on the issue will always be opaque and determined behind closed doors. There are very few people in the world who are probably fully aware of what really happened in Canada, whether or not India was involved in any way, what evidence, if any, Canada today possesses, whether this evidence consists of clinching proof or is circumstantial, what role the US is playing behind the scenes, whats Justin Trudeaus endgame, and what are expectations and anxieties involved on all sides. But even as the issue is discussed and managed, what is most important for both governments is not to let Canadas allegations interrupt the momentum of the India-US bilateral relationship. It is time for both to remain laser focused on the big strategic challenge of the times , the other C, and continue to build on the work set out by Modi and Biden to lock India and the US into a new relationship that delivers for the global good. While articulating Indias stance in public as effectively as he does, Jaishankars real diplomatic challenge is crafting this compact of deepening ties based on convergences on one track and compartmentalising an issue of possible differences on another, much narrower, track. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Prashant Jha Prashant Jha is the Washington DC-based US correspondent of Hindustan Times. He is also the editor of HT Premium. Jha has earlier served as editor-views and national political editor/bureau chief of the paper. He is the author of How the BJP Wins: Inside India's Greatest Election Machine and Battles of the New Republic: A Contemporary History of Nepal. ...view detail The Punjab police on Thursday morning arrested Congress leader and MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira in connection with an old case registered against him under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The arrest came after the Punjab police led by SP Manjeet Singh and DSP AR Sharma raided his Chandigarh house at around 6:30 am. Congress leader and MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira Khaira, the MLA from Bholath, went live on Facebook during the raids where he can be seen arguing with the police and asking for a warrant. While the police can be seen telling him that he is being arrested in an old NDPS case on the recommendation of a probe conducted by an SIT led by a DIG rank officer and two SSPs, the MLA claimed that the case was already quashed by the Supreme Court. The police can also be seen telling Khairas son Mehtab Khaira that the MLA is being taken to Jalalabad police station. Meanwhile, Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring hit out at the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government over Khaira's arrest, calling it an act of political vendetta. The recent arrest of @INCPunjab MLA @SukhpalKhaira ji smacks of Political Vendetta, it is an attempt to intimidate the opposition and is a ploy of the @AAPPunjab govt to distract from core issues. We stand strongly with Sukhpal Khaira and will take this fight to its logical conclusion, he wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. What is the drugs case? In March 2015, the police registered an FIR in a case under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. As the trial went on, nine people were convicted in 2017 after the police recovered two kg heroin, 24 gold biscuits, one country-made pistol, and two Pakistani SIM cards from them. Subsequently, Khaira's name cropped up during the investigation as an additional accused. In 2021, Khaira - who has been a vocal critic of Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal - was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on charges of money laundering linked with the same FIR in which he was arrested today. However, the court granted him bail in 2022. On February 16, 2023, a Supreme Court bench of Justices BR Gavai and Vikram Nath quashed the summoning order against Khaira in the drugs case. Five months after an FIR was filed against IPS officer Balveer Singh on charges of custodial torture, the Crime Branch-Criminal Investigation Department (CB-CID) has completed its investigations, submitted its findings and commenced the procedures to seek sanction from the government for prosecution, multiple people in the know of the case said. PREMIUM Balveer Singh, a 2020 batch IPS officer, is accused of pulling the teeth of more than a dozen men, crushing the testicles of two men, and beating two minors aged 16 and 17 across four police stations in his jurisdiction in Tirunelveli districts Ambasamudram. (HT photo) Singh, a 2020 batch officer, is accused of pulling the teeth of more than a dozen men, crushing the testicles of two men, and beating two minors aged 16 and 17 across four police stations in his jurisdiction in Tirunelveli districts Ambasamudram. The investigating officers collected blood stains from eight places in the Ambasamudram police station, say court documents filed by the CBCID and seen by HT. Ninety witnesses were questioned and on July 26 the wounds of the victims were examined by the Tirunelveli Medical College Hospital. On September 25 the CBCID submitted a sealed cover of the findings against Singh stating that they have commended procedure to seek sanction which seems contrary to their earlier documents in which the agency has said that they are awaiting sanction for prosecution from the government. Awaiting for sanction of prosecution from Government against Balveer Singh IPS read the affidavit by the deputy superintendent of police, CB-CID, Tirunelveli, R Sankar on September 19. The CBCID headquarters has approved the final report, the investigating team said. On March 10 when the alleged custodial torture took place, the agency has said that at 12.28 noon, Singh called head constable and writer of the Ambasamudram station, Vincent to switch off the CCTV with which he compiled without knowing why. The agency has also found proof to prosecute negligent police for violating section 201 of the IPCwhich relates to causing disappearance of evidence. The CB-CID has submitted the charge sheet in sealed cover to the high court on September 25, said human rights advocate Henri Tiphagne, defending minor boys involved in the case in court. Additional advocate general Veera Kathiravan representing the CB-CID also said that they have submitted the findings of the investigation to the court. CB-CID has completed investigations but there are several procedures to obtain sanction so we have sought more time. The minors, who belong to the scheduled caste community, moved court seeking speedy filing of the charge sheet against the officer who was in his first posting in the rank of an assistant superintendent of police (ASP). They also sought a report on the enquiry conducted by senior official P Amudha, who is now the principal secretary of the state governments home department and the footage of the CCTVs installed in the police station. The CBCID told the court that Amudha's report is highly confidential since it was based on her report that the case was transferred to them. The government is also tightlipped about another report based on the first enquiry conducted in the case in March under Police Standing Orders 151 by Mohammed Shabbir Alam, the Cheranmahadevi sub-divisional magistrate. Amudha did not respond to HTs calls, emails and messages. Another senior officer in the chief ministers office said, I have no idea about the case when asked about the pendency of the sanction for prosecution. G Venkataraman, additional director general of police, CB-CID did not respond until the time of writing. Earlier this month, activists wrote to chief minister M K Stalin seeking immediate sanction to CBCID for prosecution against Singh and other police officials in charge of Ambasamudram sub-division for swift justice for the victims. Activist Jayaram Venkatesan said that they had sought information through Right to Information (RTI) from the Home department but it was rejected citing confidentiality. We have reliably learnt that the CBCID has sought sanction for prosecution from the Home department and that the file is pending there for long, said Venkatesan. The Government seems to be working overtime to hide information on the status of the investigation and sanction for prosecution rather than functioning transparently in this case. The delay in prosecution will influence the case as those involved are powerful police officials. The IPS Officers Association Tamil Nadu Chapter (TNIPSA) had earlier in April called for a stop to the media trial covering the case against Singh in a selective manner which would influence investigation. The letter did not go down well even among other IPS officers in the Tamil Nadu cadre. Not all of us were consulates before the letter was released. Some of us think that a probe must be completed in the face of such serious allegations, said an IPS officer in the rank of the Inspector General, not wishing to be named. Stalin had announced the suspension of Singh during the assembly session in April adding that custodial torture will not be tolerated in the state. Singh has been booked under several sections of the IPC including atrocities against the SC/ST Act. The alleged custodial torture happened on March 10 but the incident came to light a month later after three men E Esakimuthu, his younger brother Chellapa and their relative Arul in a video narrated brutality they were subject at the police station under Singh. ASP sir just kept shouting the words gang-war in English repeatedly at us, Esakimuthu had told HT in April. ASP sir went inside one room, changed his uniform and he was wearing a white vest, trousers, white gloves. He even changed his shoes. The men said that they suffered hours of brutality and torture before they were let off at 11.30 that same night. Soon after the video, several others came forward with similar complaints of being beaten with lathis, their teeth broken with stones. Photos of their missing premolars, incisors and canine teeth have also been widely shared. One of the victims turned hostile saying that he fell down and broke his tooth. Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira, who was arrested by the Punjab Police on Thursday in connection with a 2015 drugs case, had been raising questions in connection with AAP Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha's wedding with Bollywood actor Parineeti Chopra. Khaira's last tweet was on Parineeti Chopra's wedding ring gifted by Raghav Chadha in which the Congress leader claimed that Parineeti gave the AAP leader a less costly ring even as she is a celebrity and asked how Chadha could afford a 4-carat diamond ring. Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira who has been detained by Punjab Police in a drugs case, speaks to the media outside the police station in Fazilka district on Thursday.(ANI) "Will @raghav_chadha have the decency to clarify how he managed to gift a 4 Carat very expensive diamond ring to his newly wedded wife @ParineetiChopra (more than 10 times his declared income) while his income according to 2020-21 ITR is merely 2.44 Lacs? While she being a celebrity gifted him with a ring of lesser value? What is the truth? Punjab BADLAV wants to know?@INCIndia @INCPunjab," Khaira said in a social media post on X. Hours after, a team of Punjab Police reached Khaira's residence and conducted a raid in connection with an old case registered in 2015 under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in Jalalabad, Fazilka. The Congress MLA went live on Facebook as he argued with the police. Khaira's son Mehtab Singh called the detention vendetta politics and said his father always exposed the true face of chief minister Bhagwant Mann and his party. My father always stood by the families' of those who died by drug overdose in Punjab...this what happens when somebody speaks against the govt, this is the 2nd arrest of my father in 5 years...this is the after-effect of speaking truth...2015 FIR has been used for this arrest. On that FIR, the court had summoned us and we challenged that order in Supreme Court and the order was quashed, Khaira's son said. Before the wedding ring, Khaira questioned the wedding cavalcade as Raghav Chadha and Parineeti Chopra got married in Udaipur on September 24. "Omg just watch the dazzling cavalcades of todays brand of Aam Aadmis like @ArvindKejriwal @raghav_chadha @BhagwantMann & Co who once vowed not to take govt home car etc and vowed to end Vip culture but now not only have they broken their vows but are new Vvips of India! @INCIndia @INCPunjab," Khaira tweeted. "While @BhagwantMann was busy performing Bhangra on the directions of his Delhi masters like @raghav_chadha Punjab was once again robbed of its legitimate rights over our Bhakta Dam ! Delhi once again has arbitrarily appointed its henchman Manoj Tripathi as Chairman BBMB ! I wish @BhagwantMann had objected to such anti-Punjab decisions maybe our farmers would not have to suffer the fury of floods that repeatedly devastates their future @INCPunjab," he wrote. AAP MP Sushil Gupta said it is well known that Khaira indulged in the drug business. "The law will take its own course. It is well-known that Sukhpal Khaira ji indulged in the drug business. He kept getting protection from earlier governments. Now, a proper investigation will be conducted," the AAP MP said. BJP leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa said an accused is to be summoned first and then comes the arrest if he does not cooperate in the investigation. "I remember a statement by Arvind Kejriwal where he said, 'give me Police and see what I will be doing', so that he what is being done. If someone is accused of something, he must be summoned first and make him join the investigation and if he doesn't answer then arrest him...Punjab Police is being misused...action is being taken against opposition leaders because they are speaking against the govt," the BJP leader said. 'Abuse of power and vengeance': INDIA partners AAP versus Congress The Congress condemned the arrest and said it was proof of abuse of power and vengeance. "The entire Congress family stands with him against this petty conspiracy to suppress his loud voice against injustice. We are not ready to bow down, not ready to stop. We will fight and win," the Congress tweeted. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The leader of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources policy board signaled support Wednesday for the departments contentious new wolf management plan even though the document lacks a hard population cap that hunters and farmers have demanded. Board Chair Bill Smith said during a meeting in Manitowish Waters that the plan shows the state is committed to maintaining a viable wolf population. That will help the state push federal wildlife officials to remove wolves from the endangered species list, a process known as delisting. The state would then gain management authority, enabling the DNR to resume hunting seasons and empowering farmers to kill wolves preying on livestock, he said. To me, its (the new plan) an absolute foundation piece in getting delisting, getting state authority of wolves and maintaining and sustaining a healthy program, Smith said. No matter how good the plan is, if we cant get delisting, and we cant get state authority, a vast majority of the plan is going to be very difficult to impossible to implement. Were not going to have the tools to manage the population. Wolf management has become one of the nastiest policy debates in Wisconsin outdoor circles over the past 30 years. Animal rights advocates have applauded the animals resurgence in the state as a conservation success story. But farmers in northern Wisconsin say theyre tired of wolves threatening their cattle and hunters are eager to go after the animals. The DNR adopted a management plan in 1999 that calls for limiting the population to 350 animals. The latest DNR estimates, though, put the population at around 1,000 animals. The agency uses a combination of winter tracking, monitoring radio-collared wolves, reported sightings and modeling to estimate the population. Republican legislators passed a law in 2011 that mandates an annual wolf hunt. Hunters and farmers have pointed to the 350 number as justification for setting high kill quotas. A federal judge last year placed gray wolves in the lower 48 states back on the endangered species list, making hunting illegal and limiting farmers to nonlethal control methods, such as fencing in livestock or guard dogs. Population goals The DNR has been working to update its management plan in case wolves are delisted and hunting resumes in the state. The new plan recommends a statewide population of about 1,000 animals but doesnt set a hard limit on the population. Instead, the plan recommends allowing the population to grow or decline at certain numerical thresholds. DNR officials insist the plan creates flexibility in dealing with local packs, allowing for more hunting pressure in areas overpopulated with wolves. The proposal has met with sharp criticism from farmers and hunters who want to see a specific statewide population goal. The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, the largest farmers association in the state, has called for maintaining the 350-wolf cap and Republican lawmakers are advancing a bill that would force the DNR to insert a specific number in the plan. The board is expected to vote on the new plan Oct. 25. All seven members of the board were appointed by Democratic Gov. Tony Evers and lean liberal. Smith asked the DNRs large carnivore specialist Larry Johnson during Wednesdays meeting to speculate on how a 350-animal cap would go over with federal wildlife officials as they consider delisting. Johnson said such a move would probably be seen as a red flag about the states commitment to maintaining a sustainable wolf population. Board members Jim VandenBrook and Marcy West echoed Smith. VandenBrook said the plan provides a more nuanced approach to wolf management. West said its not fair to keep wolves on the endangered species list when theyve clearly recovered and other species need more attention. Were not going to make everybody happy, West said. But we have to do these things to move forward. Were done with the past. In October 2001, Narendra Modi took over as the Gujarat chief minister in the aftermath of the earthquake that flattened swathes of the states Kutch region and claimed thousands of lives nine months earlier. The Madhavpura Mercantile Cooperative Bank collapse the same year added to the states woes. The collapse had a ripple effect and hit 133 more banks. Gujarat was in dire straits when the communal riots a year later battered the states image further. The biennial Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit began in 2003. (ANI) In an atmosphere of despair, Modi launched the biennial Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit to restore the confidence of investors. The event has grown in scale since September 2003 when it was first held at a community hall in Ahmedabad with around 100 participants. The interest of exhibitors and participants surged in 2005 when the exhibition area for the summit was tripled. Two years later, Modi famously suggested during the 2007 summit to then Tata Group chairman Ratan Tata to move the manufacturing of low-cost Nano car to Gujarat from West Bengal following protests there over inadequate compensation for land acquired for its factory. The presence of top industrialists such as Tata at the event and pledges of investments prompted other states to organise similar events. The platform fostered business-friendly policies and demonstrated the potential for economic growth besides helping Modi boost his image, which played a key role in his rise as the Prime Minister in 2014. Japan participated in the event as the first partner country in the 2009 summit, where industrialists Sunil Bharti Mittal and Anil Ambani praised Modi and said they saw a national-level leader in him. Over 600 foreign delegates, including political dignitaries, participated in the 2009 edition. At an event marking 20 years of the summit in Ahmedabad on Wednesday, Modi hailed the transformation of the summit as an institution while recalling the indifference of the previous Congress-led Union government. He said the central ministers in the earlier government refused to attend the event and even threatened foreign investors to discourage them from participating. Modi said far from cooperating, the previous government put hurdles in their way. He said foreign investors chose to invest in Gujarat despite challenges due to their positive experiencesgood, transparent, policy-driven governance, fairness, and equitable growth opportunities. Modi recalled the challenging circumstances under which he took over as the Gujarat chief minister with no prior administrative experience. He said the event would become key to restoring faith in Gujarat. Modi said the number of participants has grown to over 40,000 from 135 countries. Modi recalled the humble beginnings of the summit in makeshift tents. Instead of hotels, business houses, and university guest houses provided accommodation for guests. The government has not provided details of the memoranda of understanding (MoUs) signed at the event since 2017. The MoUs are non-binding and merely state an entitys intent to invest in the state. An official said less than 10% of the investments would have flowed in as many of them are in large infrastructure projects with long gestation periods. MoUs signed at the event include those for Gujarat International Finance Tec-City, Dholera Smart City Project, and Maruti Suzukis car manufacturing projects. The tensity between India and Canada over the killing of secessionist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar has taken a fresh turn after a group of Indian hackers temporarily disabled the official website of the Canadian Armed Forces, The Telegraph reported. The webite was reportedly hacked by Indian Cyber Force which shared the screenshot on X (formerly Twitter) after taking down the site. A man holds a laptop computer as cyber code is projected on him in this illustration picture(REUTERS/Representative) The hackers' group on September 21 threatened to possibly attack the Canadian cyberspace with a warning get ready to feel the power. Te next day, it expressed discontent over Justin Trudeau's allegations and anti-India politics. According to head of media relations of the Department of National Defence Daniel Le Bouthillier, speaking to The Globe and Mail, the disruption began around noon and later rectified. Apart from a few destop users, the site was inaccessible on most mobile devices. The top official, however, said there were no broader implication of the brief hacking on their systems. The hacked website is a seperate entity from the Canadian government and its National Defence Department's publice sites and internal networks. The encompassing bodies of the Canadian Navy, special command groups, air and space operations Canadian Forces is currently investigating the matter. 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 PANAJI: The Indian Ocean will face disproportionate effects of a warming planet as compared to other oceans, which in turn will have a huge impact on the subcontinent, National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) director Sunil Kumar Singh, said on Thursday. NIO said the Samudra Manthan 23 marks a watershed moment in oceanography, bringing together scientists, intellectuals, and students across India (File Photo) The geographical location of the Indian Ocean is such that it plays a huge role in climate change. If you talk about the sea surface temperature increasing across the world, the tropical Indian Ocean has seen an increase of 1.1C, but across the globe, the sea surface temperature of the ocean has increased only 0.7C. It is higher in the tropical Indian Ocean, Singh said at Samudra Manthan 23, the first scholars meet at the countrys premier oceanographic research institute. Our economy is very dependent on agriculture and agriculture dependent on rainfall. The monsoon is controlled by the ocean, but because we are now finding that in the northern Indian Ocean, almost everywhere we have a lot of intermediate water with low oxygen, he added. Singh asked the researchers to help the country exploit the resources available in the ocean, especially rare earths. When we are trying to go towards the exploitation of renewable energy, I think we also have to think in terms of storing this energy. Batteries require a lot of critical metals -- cobalt, lithium -- where are these metals going to come from? Barring a few small reservoirs onshore on continental India, we dont have a reservoir of these elements, whereas we have a huge reservoir sitting in the ocean. I think it is very required to approach those critical metals, of course in a sustainable manner from the ocean, he said. Singh said the institute has estimated that there are 105 million metric tonnes of manganese, copper, cobalt, nickel and other rare earths. In addition to that, we have a cobalt crust, we have metal sulphides in the hydrothermal region, where a lot of work is going on, he said. Dissolved metals are much higher than land reserves. Almost 9 billion metric tonnes are there in the dissolved form which is waiting to be exploited, he said. Our dependence should not be on other countries as it has with petroleum, where we are depending on other countries and huge reserves of foreign exchange going to those countries. When we shift towards renewable energy, these metals will be required and I think we should not depend on others, he added. CSIR-NIO is organising Samudra Manthan 23, the first National Oceanography Scholars Meet from September 28 to 30. The workshop aims to bring together all research scholars, post-doctoral fellows, and students working on oceanography for discussions. This meeting marks a watershed moment in oceanography, bringing together scientists, intellectuals, and students across India to dive deep into the mysteries of our vast and complex seas, the institute said in a statement. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The US Mission in India on Thursday surpassed its goal of processing one million non-immigrant visa applications this year and said that Indians now represent over 10 per cent of all visa applicants worldwide, including 20 per cent of all student visa applicants and 65 per cent of all H&L-category (employment) visa applicants. The number of visa applications processed in India are 20 per cent more than the numbers processed in pre-Covid 2019 and 2022. (Representational Image)(Courtesy issa.house.gov) The number of visa applications processed in India are 20 per cent more than the numbers processed in pre-Covid 2019 and 2022 and Indians made over one in 10 applications worldwide, the embassy said. US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti personally handed over the one millionth visa to a couple, who will be heading to the United States to attend their son's graduation at MIT. Dr Ranju Singh, senior consultant, Lady Hardinge College was elated at receiving an email from the US Embassy about hers being the one millionth visa this year. Her husband Puneet Dargan, was granted the next visa. The couple will be travelling to the US in May 2024. Greeting the couple as "Mr and Mrs One million", Ambassador Garcetti enquired about their travel plans to the US and made suggestions about what not to miss in the country as a tourist. "I couldn't be happier today, happy for India, Indians and the United States. Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi and President (Joe) Biden had said let's do a better job in moving faster on the visas and so the Ministry of External Affairs here approved more bodies in places like Hyderabad...more people who can work on these visas, we changed our systems, we worked harder and smarter and we hit a million visa applications processed this year," the ambassador said. "Our partnership with India is one of the United States' most important bilateral relationships, and in fact one of the most important relationships in the world. The ties between our people are stronger than ever, and we will continue our record-setting volume of visa work in the coming months to give as many Indian applicants as possible the opportunity to travel to the United States and experience the US-India friendship firsthand," he added. The mission has already surpassed the total number of cases processed in 2022 and is processing almost 20 per cent more applications than in pre-pandemic 2019. Dr Singh told PTI, "We got an email after we had finished our visa interviews that we are supposed to collect our visas, we were told that we were the one millionth...the ambassador meeting us in person was a great moment for us. We are looking forward to going to the US, we will be there at MIT to celebrate our son's proud day and then explore the country as tourists." Dargan informed that their son is currently pursuing his Masters in Financial Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). "This will be our first trip to the US. We are really looking forward to it," he said. Last year over 1.2 million Indians visited the United States. Indians now represent over 10 per cent of all visa applicants worldwide, including 20 per cent of all student visa applicants and 65 per cent of all H&L-category (employment) visa applicants. According to a statement by the US Embassy here, recognising the continued high demand for US visas, the United States continues to invest heavily in its operations in India. "In the past year, the mission has expanded its staffing to facilitate more visa processing than ever before. The mission has made significant capital improvements to existing facilities, such as the US Consulate in Chennai, and has inaugurated a new consulate building in Hyderabad. "The mission has also implemented strategies to increase efficiency, extending interview waiver eligibility to new visa categories and utilising remote work to allow staff around the world to contribute to Indian visa processing. Early next year, the mission plans to implement a pilot program that would allow domestic visa renewal for qualified H&L-category employment visa applicants," it said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON External affairs minister S Jaishankar is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday amid the ongoing diplomatic crisis between India and Canada. The duo has already met during the Quad ministerial meeting where foreign ministers if Japan and Australia were also present. The Canada issue did not come up at that meeting as it was not a bilateral meeting, State Department spokesperson Mathew Miller. The issue can be broached at today's meeting, but Mathew Miller provided no confirmation. "Weve made clear, weve raised this; we have engaged with our Indian counterparts on this and encouraged them to cooperate with the Canadian investigation, and we continue to encourage them to cooperate," the spokesperson said. Jaishankar will meet Blinken today amid India's tension with Canada. The Canada issue did not come up in their earlier meeting which was part of Quad.(AP) India-Canada diplomatic crisis after Trudeau blamed India for Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing 1. Jaishankar in his first official comment on India-Canada diplomatic crisis said in New York that India has clearly told the Canda government that this (killing of Nijjar in Canada) is not the government policy. 2. Jaishankar said India asked Canada to share any specific information if they have, but there has been none. 3. Canada has been seeing a lot of crime relating to the secessionist forces, organised crime, violence, extremism, Jaishankar said. 4. In his address to the UN General Assembly, Jaishankar asked UN member states to not allow political convenience to determine responses to terrorism and violence. It was a veiled attack on Canada. 5. Canada's ambassador to the UN Bob Rae claimed he was approached by his Indian counterpart Ruchira Kamoj at the UN. "She pulled me aside to say it's important that we keep working together as the governments try to work out the situation that has to be worked on," Rae told CBC News. 6. Canada PM Justin Trudeau has claimed that Canada shared evidence of Nijjar's killing with India many weeks ago. 7. The United States said there ought to be a full and fair investigation into Canada's allegations. The US wants India to cooperate in the process. 8. Jagmeet Singh, leader of Canada's New Democratic Party, said there is a clear indication of a foreign government being involved in the killing of Nijjar Singh. "This is unprecedented intelligence that has come forward and that is why we're going to continue to urge that the Canadian government have a thorough investigation that those responsible are brought forward," the NDP leader said. 9. After India suspended visa services in Canada and issued an advisory for Indians living in Canada, Canada too asked its citizens in India to remain vigilant and exercise caution. 10. Gurmeet Singh Toor, another separatist leader, was warned by the Canadian law enforcement about threats to his life after Nijjar Singh killing, CBC News reported. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Poulomi Ghosh Poulomi Ghosh is a journalist with Hindustan Times, New Delhi. ...view detail Bengaluru: Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday said his government will move the Supreme Court to challenge the recent directive by the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) to the state to release 3,000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu from September 28 till October 15. Siddaramiah (File photo) Siddaramaiah said he has consulted legal experts, who opined that the CWRC directive should be challenged in the apex court. Talking to reporters at MM Hills in Chamarajanagar, the chief minister said: We are challenging the order of the regulation committee before the Supreme Court. We dont have water to release to Tamil Nadu. The remarks came a day after senior Congress leader and deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar hailed the CWRC directive as victory of the people of Karnataka. At a given point in time, around 2,000 cusecs [cubic feet per second] of water flow to Tamil Nadu. We just need to add another 1,000 cusecs, Shivakumar said on Tuesday. Since yesterday (Monday), we have also seen some increase in inflow. It is a matter of happiness that Tamil Nadus demand has been rejected by the committee. Even as the government was planning to approach the top court, the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Janata Dal (Secular) on Wednesday expressed dissatisfaction over the Congress-led governments handling of the Cauvery issue. Former chief minister BS Yediyurappa likened the CWRC directive to the death sentence for Karnataka. If the state government releases any more water to Tamil Nadu, it is a setback for the self-respect of the state, he said, taking strong exception to Shivakumars remarks that the state has been receiving additional inflow of water. JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy also slammed Shivakumar for expressing satisfaction with the CWRCs recommendation. Legal experts say Tamil Nadu had over-utilised the water for irrigation, leading to increased acreage under cultivation. While Tamil Nadu could cultivate two to three crops, Karnatakas farmers struggled to grow even one, he said. Meanwhile, a statewide bandh has been called on September 29 by Kannada Okkuta, an umbrella outfit for pro-Kannada organisations. In view of the bandh, Bangalore University has postponed its second and fourth semester exams by a day to September 30. The 22nd Law Commission has submitted two reports to the Union law ministry, one on the minimum age of consent under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act and another on the online filing of first information reports (FIRs), panel chairman Ritu Raj Awasthi said on Wednesday. We have finalised the report on the Pocso act and another with respect to online FIRs and we have sent the reports to the ministry of law and justice, said Awasthi, also the former chief justice of the Karnataka high court. (File) The announcement came after a high-level meeting in New Delhi. We have finalised the report on the Pocso act and another with respect to online FIRs and we have sent the reports to the ministry of law and justice, said Awasthi, also the former chief justice of the Karnataka high court. But there was no clarity on when recommendations on simultaneous elections will be finalised. Still some work is going on, on simultaneous elections. We have not finalised the report. There is no timeline for finalising it, he told reporters. The development came amid a swirling debate over the age of consent under Pocso. In the past few years, a number of high courts have expressed concern that consensual relationships between teenagers were getting criminalised under the stringent 2012 law meant to protect children from sexual violence. In December 2022, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud asked lawmakers to look into the growing concern over criminalisation of adolescents who engage in consensual sexual activity. Earlier that year, the Delhi high court noted that the intention of Pocso Act was to protect children from sexual exploitation and it was never meant to criminalise consensual romantic relationships between young adults. The Meghalaya high court also observed that acts of mutual love and affection between a young couple will not amount to sexual assault under the concerned law. Last year, Union minister for women and child development Smriti Irani told the Rajya Sabha that the government had no plans to reduce the age of consent for consensual relationships, adding, the question does not arise. The Law Commission is a non-statutory body, working under the aegis of the Union ministry of law and justice. Following definite terms of reference from the department of legal affairs, the commission conducts research in the field of law and makes recommendations to the Centre in the form of reports. These recommendations are not binding on the government, though they may have some persuasive value. The issue of holding state and national elections simultaneously is a politically loaded one. A high-powered panel led by former President Ram Nath Kovind is also looking into it. Holding simultaneous elections would be ideal as well as desirable, but a workable formula is required to be provided in the Constitution, the Law Commission had concluded in its draft report in August 2018, citing detailed discussions. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON At least 25 students were injured in Imphal on Wednesday as large crowds clashed with police in Manipur during protests over the killing of a 20-year-old man and a 17-year-old girl who went missing two months ago, two days after photographs of their apparently lifeless bodies went viral on social media. Security personnel fire tear gas as students protest against the killing of two missing students by unknown people in Imphal on Wednesday. (AFP) The developments came on a day the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act or Afspa was extended for another six months in the state, barring 19 police stations in the Imphal valley. A Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) team, led by special director Ajay Bhatnagar, reached Imphal on Wednesday afternoon to investigate the case even as chief minister N Biren Singh appealed for calm. This is a sad incident and it is highly condemnable that what the Kuki militants have done is the highest level of crime...I want to promise to the people of Manipur that we will make sure the culprit is given maximum punishment, Singh said. The 20-year-old man and the 17-year-old girl both residents of Imphal were last seen together on July 6. Manipur Police said an initial probe revealed that the missing duo may have got trapped in an area dominated by the Kuki community while fleeing, after which they were allegedly abducted and murdered. The probe also revealed that a day after the two went missing, a new SIM card was inserted in the mans mobile phone that was activated in Lamdan, a Kuki-dominated area, on July 7, a police officer said, asking not to be named. On September 25, two days after the state government restored internet services, photos of the couple surfaced on social media. One showed them sitting on the ground in what appears to be a forest with two armed men in the background, and another showed them apparently lying dead on the ground. The mans head appeared to be missing in the photograph and the womans face is not visible. The two are wearing the same clothes as seen in the first photograph. Their faces are not visible in the second photograph. HT could not independently verify the authenticity of the photographs. Hours after the photos went viral on social media and stoked unrest, the state government suspended mobile internet and data services through VPN for five days on Tuesday evening. On Wednesday, hundreds of students spilled out on to the streets of Imphal, protesting against the killing. Several were injured in tear-gas shelling and lathi charge by police and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel at Moirangkhom in Imphal West. Officials in Imphal said protesters also pelted stones. Similar protests were witnessed in other areas such as Thangmeiband and Kanglapat. Protests rocked Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Thoubal and Kakching, all located in the Meitei-dominated Imphal Valley. I am very saddened by the injuries suffered by numerous students and some others who were expressing their shock, anger, helplessness against the brutal killing of their fellow students...I appeal to all students to trust the government and carry on with their studies, despite all odds, so that an academic year is not lost, Manipur education minister T Basanta Kumar Singh said. A team of 20 representatives of protesting students met Singh later and submitted a memorandum of demands, including the arrests of those responsible for the killings within 30 days and the lifting of the ban on mobile internet. A mob burnt down an office of the Bharatiya Janata Party at Khongjam in Thoubal district but district officials said no one was injured. Yesterday, Union home minister Amit Shahji directly called me and told me that he is sending a CBI team to investigate the case, Singh said, This case has to be dealt with seriously and those culprits have to be booked as per law of the land and no one will be spared. Authorities also tightened the curfew in Imphal East and Imphal West districts, rolling back an earlier order relaxing prohibitory orders. In supersession of earlier order...it is hereby informed to the general public that curfew relaxation in respect of Imphal East district from 5 am to 9 pm...is hereby cancelled with immediate effect, said the order issued by K Diana Devi, district magistrate of Imphal East district. A similar order issued by N Johnson Meetei, additional district magistrate of Imphal West, said the relaxation of curfew was cancelled due to developing law and order condition in the district and to prevent untoward incidents and loss of life and property. The Manipur government also decided to maintain status quo on the existing disturbed area status and extended Afspa for another six months with effect from October 1. The state government is of the opinion after analysing the prevailing law and order situation in the state that it is not expedient to have detailed assessment on the ground as sister security agencies are preoccupied in maintenance of law and order, the notification issued by home commissioner T Ranjit Singh read. The police station areas outside the purview of the stringent law are Imphal, Lamphel, City, Singjamei, Sekmai, Lamsang, Patsoi, Wangoi, Porompat, Heingang, Lamlai, Iribung, Leimakhong, Thoubal, Bishnupur, Nambol, Moirang, Kakchin and Jirbam all dominated by the majority Meitei community. This means the Army and Assam Rifles cannot operate in these areas without the consent of the state police. Clashes in Manipur first broke out on May 3 in Churachandpur town after tribal groups called for protests against a proposed tweak to the states reservation matrix, granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Meitei community. At least 175 people have died and another 50,000 displaced. It is unfortunate. Be it Meitei or Kuki-Zo, both sides have suffered high casualties. Violence should be condemned, said Ginza Vualzong, spokesperson of the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum, an umbrella body of tribal groups. The government should announce Presidents rule to save lives 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 As fresh violence gripped Manipur following the killing of two students, the union home ministry on Thursday repatriated senior Srinagar police official Rakesh Balwal to the northeastern state. This comes nearly a month after the home ministry proposed the need for more officials in Manipur due to the prevailing law and order situation. Manipur has been in the throes of clashes since May 3(Reuters) The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the proposal of the Ministry of Home Affairs for premature repatriation of Shri Rakesh Balwal, IPS from AGMUT cadre to Manipur cadre, read a notification. Notably, the IPS officer is of Manipur cadre posted in Jammu and Kashmir. In 2021, he took over as the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) in Srinagar. He has earlier served as Superintendent of Police to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in 2018 for a four-year term. Balwal was a part of the team that investigated the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. Two students killed in Manipur A fresh spell of violence broke out in Manipur on Tuesday over the killing of two students belonging to the Meitei community who had gone missing in July. Soon after the mobile internet services were restored, the photos of the two students went viral on social media. According to the initial probe, the duo may have eloped on July 6 but got trapped in an area dominated by the Kuki community while fleeing, after which they were allegedly abducted and murdered, said the Manipur police. The case has now been transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). This incident led to students and residents coming out on the streets to protest, during which they clashed with police and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel. Reportedly, around 25 to 30 demonstrators sustained injuries. In view of this, the state government on Tuesday reimposed the ban on mobile internet services for five days in the violence-hit state. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The law and order situation in strife-torn Manipur took a dramatic turn on Thursday night as a mob tried to attack the ancestral house of Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh. Police said that the security forces foiled the attempt and stopped the mob around 100 metres away from the house. Security personnel fire tear gas as students protest against the killing of two missing students by unknown people in Imphal on Wednesday. (AFP) The chief minister does not live at the ancestral home in Imphal and stays in his official residence. There was an attempt to attack the chief ministers ancestral house at Heingang locality in Imphal. Security forces stopped the mob around 100-150 metres away from the house, a police officer said. The police officer added, Two groups of people came from different directions and approached the CMs ancestral residence but they were stopped. Several rounds of tear gas shells were fired by RAF and state police personnel to disperse the mob. The authorities switched off the electricity connection in the entire area to help reduce the visibility of the protestors. More barricades were added to the previous ones near the house. The incident occurred a day after the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, or Afspa, was extended for another six months in the state, barring 19 police stations in the Imphal valley. The northeastern state has been wracked by ethnic violence since early May between the two dominant ethnic groups. The clashes first broke out on May 3 in Churachandpur town after tribal groups called for protests against a proposed tweak to the states reservation matrix, granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Meitei community. The clashes have persisted despite the armys presence in Manipur, a state of 3.7 million people. Violent protests erupted again this week over the killing of a 20-year-old man and a 17-year-old girl both belonging to the Meitei community who went missing two months ago. At least 25 students were injured in Imphal on Wednesday as large crowds clashed with police during protests. The chief minister has been facing criticism from multiple quarters for failing to control the law and order situation in the state with a history of ethnic clashes. (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 September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and every Nebraskan has a role in saving lives. In Nebraska, a person dies by suicide once every 32 hours. Thankfully, many survive their attempts, and its important to realize that you are not alone, there is help, support, and treatment available. Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is a time to remember those affected by suicide, to raise awareness, and to focus on sharing resources that can help someone experiencing a crisis, said Tony Green, Interim Director of Behavioral Health for the Department of Health and Human Services. Talking about how you are feeling can help alleviate some of your distress. It is important to recognize the value of seeking help from a mental health professional or a trained crisis counselor at 988. Suicidal thoughts, much like mental health challenges, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or background. Family and friends are often the first to recognize the warning signs of suicide, and they can take the first step toward helping a loved one find mental health treatment. Warning Signs of Suicide Talking about wanting to die or wanting to kill themselves Talking about feeling empty or hopeless or having no reason to live Talking about feeling trapped or feeling that there are no solutions Feeling unbearable emotional or physical pain Talking about being a burden to others Withdrawing from family and friends Giving away important possessions Saying goodbye to friends and family Putting affairs in order, such as making a will Taking great risks that could lead to death, such as driving extremely fast Talking or thinking about death often Suicidal behaviors are a psychiatric emergency. If you or a loved one needs assistance in a crisis, seek immediate help by calling, texting, or chatting 988. 988 is the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. 988 provides a direct connection to trained, compassionate, accessible care and support for anyone experiencing suicidal, substance use, and/or mental health-related crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress. 988 is available 24/7 and is a free service available to anyone experiencing a mental health-related crisis. Any Nebraskan can call or text 988 and be connected to a trained counselor. If you have a loved one that you are concerned about, 988 counselors can provide assistance. Help is available. You could save a life by making the call. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, remember that you are not alone and support and help are available. You deserve to feel supported. Some people find it helpful to create a safety plan. This tool is developed to help you navigate suicidal thoughts or feelings. Visit https://www.mysafetyplan.org/ for more information. If you have a friend or loved one who is experiencing suicidal thoughts or crisis, it is important to know that there are ways to show that you care by reaching out and supporting them. When someone tells you they are suicidal, you must take them seriously. Try to use clear and direct language, for example, I care a lot about you, what can I do to help you? It is not about coming up with solutions, but about listening to the person and supporting them as they explore options for seeking help and safety. Encourage help-seeking behavior and help them get connected to professional support. It is also critical that you look after your own mental health and well-being and seek support of your own if you need help. Need to talk or get immediate help in a crisis? Help is available. If you or a loved one need assistance, reach out to: The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline; call, text, or chat 988. Your faith-based leader, healthcare professional, or student health center on campus. Nebraska Family Helpline Any question, any time. (888) 866-8660. Rural Response Hotline, (800) 464-0258. Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 (oprime dos para Espanol) or text TalkWithUs to 66746. National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text LOVEIS to 22522. National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4AChild (1-800-422-4453) or text 1-800-422-4453. National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). In 1959, a young scientist at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute wrote to American agricultural scientist Norman Borlaug, expressing a wish to customise for India a high-yielding wheat variety the latter had initially developed for poverty-stricken Mexico in the 1950s. Swaminathan was a renowned agricultural scientist who revolutionised Indias farming. (AP file photo)(HT_PRINT) Borlaug, the young Indian scientist would write later, wanted to see Indian growing conditions before making up a set of breeding lines, and paid a visit in March 1963. We tested the material at locations all over north India during rabi (the winter crop cycle) 1963. We are on WhatsApp now. Click to join. The scientist was Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan, and the events mentioned above marked the beginning of Indias Green Revolution, transforming the country from being dependent on humiliating food donations to feed its population to being a farm powerhouse, saving millions from hunger and devastating famines. Swaminathan, 98, the recipient of Indias second highest civilian honour the Padma Vibhushan, and the World Food Prize, widely known as the father of the Green Revolution, died at his Chennai home on Thursday. Swaminathans passing has been widely mourned, at home and abroad. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a post on X, said that at a very critical period in our nations history, his groundbreaking work in agriculture transformed the lives of millions and ensured food security for our nation. The Food and Agricultural Organisation said his demise had brought an end to an epoch. Swaminathan served as a secretary to the Union department of agricultural research (1972-1979), headed top state-run farm institutions in his career, and was also nominated to the Rajya Sabha (2007-2013). Time magazine had named him as one among 20 most influential persons of the 20th century. Swaminathan and Borlaug found that the semi-dwarf wheat variety, if grown under the right conditions and with policy support, could raise Indias food grain productivity dramatically. Along with the then agriculture minister, C Subramanian, and experts at the erstwhile Planning Commission, Swaminathan worked on a policy to subsidise fertilisers and power while expanding irrigation cover to promote the wheat variety he had developed for India, utilizing British-era water canals in Punjab and Haryana. The variety was fine-tuned during several trials and, in 1968, the countrys wheat output jumped to 17 million tonne, with the previous highest production being 12 million tonne in 1964. With successive plantings, the staples output rose exponentially. This turn of history is now known as Indias Green Revolution. Before the Green Revolution, India had signed off on an agreement with the US known as Public Law 480 to qualify for food aid. It was not just humiliating. With the Cold War on, food assistance was a political hazard because aid came tied to conditions. A taste of this came when the US once stopped desperate wheat shipments to India for 48 hours right in the middle of a drought. In chasing higher GDP growth rates, policymakers often tend to gloss over two vital facts. One, farm growth can cut poverty twice as fast as industrial growth. Two, a 1% rise in agricultural output raises industrial production by 0.5% and national income by 0.7%, according to research. The gains in wheat productivity from Swaminathans work led to rural prosperity, raising by the 1970s the purchasing power of farmers. Demand for farm machinery went up, prompting state-owned manufacturers such as Hindustan Machine Tools to produce them in an era of socialist planning. Almost simultaneously, another breakthrough came when Swaminathan got hold of a fertiliser-responding high-yielding of variety of Indica rice from the Philippines-based International Rice Research Institute and improvised it to suit Indian conditions, which made India a large cereal producer capable of exporting its surpluses. Nearly 18,000 tonne of seeds of the wheat variety Swaminathan finetuned for Indian conditions were dispatched to food-bowl states of Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh. Along with minimum support prices, fertiliser subsidies and irrigation cover in these pockets, farmers overwhelmingly adopted the improved breed. Things could have been different had Swaminathan, a plant geneticist by training, taken up a job offer as a police officer, which he spurned to do higher research in agriculture after graduating from the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. He earned his PhD from Cambridge University in 1952. He then travelled to the US on the liner Queen Elizabeth for post-doctoral studies in Wisconsin. Swaminathans contributions are of course well-known. At the end of the day, by ensuring food self-sufficiency, he saved lives, death and destruction. Thats how I look at him, said S Mahendra Dev, an economist who formerly headed the federal body that recommends minimum support prices for crops and is now the editor of the journal EPW. When India was ruled by the British, drought was a word for deadly famines. In 1943, the Bengal famine, after a missed monsoon, killed an estimated 4 million people. Swaminathans work led to a sharp increase in grain output, helping avoid a scary Malthusian world of food production failing to keep pace with population growth. From about 50 million tonne in 1950-51, India now produces on average upwards of 250 million tonne of cereals annually. During 1965-66, when Swaminathan was still testing out his wheat variety, a menacing consecutive drought had taken hold. Food output dropped 36% in those two years, data show. All through the 1940s and 1950s, deadly famines were common. India still uses the same technologies Swaminathan developed to grow food. In 2009, when India had its worst drought in three decades in terms of rainfall, the country managed to produce a million more tonne of foodgrain than it did in 2007, a normal-monsoon year, a testament to Swaminathans contributions. Dev said Swaminathan, however, forewarned farmers in 1968 not to treat the productivity gains as an evergreen revolution by overusing subsidised agricultural chemicals, which he said would ruin soil health. Today, food-bowl states such as Punjab, are battling plateaus in farm yields and soil toxicity precisely because of overuse of cheap fertilisers. Swaminathan is survived by three daughters:Soumya Swaminathan, a top WHO scientist, economist Madhura Swaminathan, and gender and rural development expert Nitya Rao. Born in Kumbakonam on August 7, 1925 to M.K. Sambasivan, a surgeon, and Parvati Thangammal, Swaminathan devoted his later life to sustainable agriculture, traditional farming practices and nutrition through his eponymous Chennai-based foundation. A key contribution was his recommendations as the chair of the National Commission on Farmers in 2004, in which made a bunch of policy recommendation on improving farm incomes. An important recommendation was that benchmark crop prices should be fixed such that they give 50% returns over costs, a model which was implemented by the Modi government in 2018. Farmers, however, say the measure doesnt take into full account cultivations costs as recommended by Swaminathan. As a Rajya Sabha MP, Swaminathan repeatedly warned about growing unsustainability of Indian agriculture and the dangers of climate the crisis. Arguing for a private members bill he brought on women farmers rights, he criticized the very Green Revolution he helped to usher in, saying the government and farmers alike would ignore a shift to climate-resilient agricultural system at their own cost. The future of food security will depend on a combination of the ecological prudence of the past and the technological advances of today, he told the Upper House of Parliament. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON MS Swaminathan, hailed as the father of the green revolution in India, passed away at the age of 98 in Chennai on Thursday. He chaired numerous prestigious international conferences, including the 1974 UN World Food Congress in Rome. (MSSRF) A statement from his family is awaited. He established the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) in 1988 as a not-for-profit trust from the proceeds of the First World Food Prize which he received in 1987. An official of the institute said that he passed away around 11am. Born in Tamil Nadus Thanjavur district, he was named the first World Food Prize laureate for developing and spearheading the introduction of high-yielding wheat and rice varieties into India during the 1960s when that country faced the prospect of widespread famine. Also Read:On cough syrup deaths in Gambia, WHO chief scientist says need to prove Swaminathan worked with late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to establish agricultural policies. He chaired numerous prestigious international conferences, including the 1974 United Nations World Food Congress in Rome. His daughter Dr Soumya Swaminathan, who served as the chief scientist at the World Health Organization (WHO) from 2019-2022 took over as chairperson of the MSSRF earlier in January. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan (MS Swaminathan), legendary agricultural scientist and father of Indias Green Revolution, died at the age of 98 in Chennai on Thursday. MS Swaminathan(File) Born on August 7, 1925 in Tamil Nadus Thanjavur district, he was an agronomist, agricultural scientist, plant geneticist, administrator, and humanitarian who played a crucial role in developing high-yielding varieties of paddy that helped ensure Indias low-income farmers produce more yield. Swaminathan started his career in 1949 researching on the genetics of potato, wheat, rice and jute. When India was on the verge of a mass famine leading to scarcity of food grains, Swaminathan along with Norman Borlaug and other scientists developed the high yield variety seeds of wheat. Swaminathan, who is known as the "Father of Economic Ecology" by the United Nations Environment Programme, worked with agriculture ministers including C Subramaniam and Jagjivan Ram during 1960s and 70s for the success of the Green Revolution, an initiative that paved the way for exponential rise in productivity of wheat and rice through adaptation of chemical-biological technology. For developing and spearheading the introduction of high-yielding wheat and rice varieties into India, he was awarded the first World Food Prize in 1987 following which he set up the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation in Chennai. Swaminathan was also awarded with Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1971 and the Albert Einstein World Science Award in 1986. He had also been conferred with the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and the Padma Vibhushan. He is also the recipient of the H K Firodia award, the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award and the Indira Gandhi Prize. The Indian agriculturalist had also held administrative positions in various agricultural research laboratories. He served as the director general of Indian Council of Agricultural Research and later International Rice Research Institute. He also served as the principal secretary of the ministry of agriculture in 1979. In 1988, Swaminathan became the president of the International Union of the Conservation of Nature and Natural resources. In 2004, he was appointed as chair of the National Commission on Farmers. Beyond his work in the country, Swaminathan was an spectacular figure globally, contributing to various international agricultural and environmental initiatives. He was named one of the 20 most influential Asians of the 20th century by Time magazine. He is survived by his three daughters Soumya, Madhura, and Nitya. His wife Mina died in 2022. Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan, 98, popularly known as the father of Indias Green Revolution, died at his Chennai home on Thursday. Under his tutelage, in a career spanning nearly half a century, the agricultural scientist transformed India from being dependent on humiliating food donations to feed its population to being self-sufficient, saving millions from deadly famines. Swaminathan was a renowned agricultural scientist who revolutionised Indias farming. (AP file photo) A winner of the World Food Prize in 1987, Swaminathans passing is being widely mourned, at home and abroad. Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked, in a post on the social-media platform X, that at a very critical period in our nations history, his groundbreaking work in agriculture transformed the lives of millions and ensured food security for our nation. The Food and Agricultural Organisation said his demise had brought an end to an epoch. A young Swaminathan had collaborated with scientist Norman Borlaug, a Nobel laureate, to customize for India a high-yielding wheat variety Borlaug had developed for poverty-stricken Mexico in the 1950s. Also Read: Disconnect in farm governance: Bridge gap for sustainable growth I therefore approached Dr. Borlaug in 1959 for some of his semi-dwarf wheat breeding material. Dr. Borlaug wanted to see Indian growing conditions before making up a set of breeding lines and paid a visit in March 1963. We tested the material at locations all over north India during rabi 1963, Swaminathan wrote in a memoir years later. The two found that the winter wheat variety, if grown under the right conditions and with policy support, could raise Indias foodgrain productivity dramatically. Swaminathan was then a scientist at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute and part of group which the then prime minister Lal Bahadur Shastri would consult on matters of food security. Swaminathan, along with the then agriculture minister, C. Subramanian, and experts at the erstwhile Planning Commission put together a policy to subsidize fertilizers and power while expanding irrigation cover to promote the dwarf wheat variety, utilizing British-era water canals in Punjab and Haryana. Glitches with the variety were fixed after several trials and in 1968, the countrys wheat output went up to 17 million tonne, the previous highest production being in 1964 at 12 million tonne. With every successive season, the staples output rose exponentially. This turn of history is now known as Indias Green Revolution. Before the Green Revolution, India had signed off on an agreement with the US called the Public Law 480 to qualify for food aid. It was not just humiliating. With the Cold War on, food assistance was a political hazard because aid came tied with conditions. A taste of this came when the US once stopped desperate wheat shipments to India for 48 hours right in the middle of the drought. In chasing higher and higher GDP growth rates, India often tends to gloss over two vital facts. One, farm growth can cut poverty twice as fast as industrial growth. Two, a 1% rise in agricultural output raises industrial production by 0.5% and national income by 0.7%, according to research. In other words, the countrys fortunes are structurally tied to its farmers. The gains in wheat productivity therefore led to higher farm incomes and rural prosperity, raising by the 1970s, the purchasing power of farmers. Demand for farm machinery went up, prompting state-backed manufacturers such as Hindustan Machine Tools to produce them in an era of socialist planning. Almost simultaneously, another breakthrough came when India got hold of a fertiliser-responding high-yielding VARIETY of Indica rice from the Philippines-based International Rice Research Institute. Nearly 18,000 tonnes of their seeds were dispatched to food-bowl states of Punjab, Haryana and western UP. Along with minimum support prices, fertilizer subsidies and irrigation cover in these pockets, the Green Revolution would soon make India a cereal powerhouse. Things could have been very different had Swaminathan, a plant geneticist by training, taken up a job as a police officer, which he spurned to do higher research in agriculture after graduating from the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. Swaminathans contributions are of course well known. At the end of the day, by ensuring food self-sufficiency, he saved lives, death and destruction. Thats how I look at him, said S. Mahendra Dev, an economist who formerly headed the federal body that recommends minimum support prices for crops and the editor of the journal EPW. In the British period, drought was a word for deadly famines. In 1943, the Bengal famine, after a missed monsoon, killed an estimated four million. Swaminathans work led to a sharp increase in grain output, helping avoid a scary Malthusian world of food production failing to keep pace with population growth. From about 50 million tonne in 1950-51, grain harvests are now in the realm of 300 million tonne annually. During 1965-66, when Swaminathan was still testing out his wheat variety, a consecutive drought had put India on a knifes edge. Food output dropped 36% in those two years, the data show. All through the 1940s and 1950s, deadly famines were common. India still uses the same technologies Swaminathan developed to grow food. In 2009, when India had its worst drought in three decades in terms of rainfall, the country managed to produce a million more tonnes of foodgrains than it did in 2007, a normal year, a testimony to Swaminathans work. Dev said Swaminathan however had forewarned farmers in 1968 not to treat the productivity leap as an evergreen revolution by overusing subsidized agricultural chemicals, which he said would ruin soil health. Today, food-bowl states, such as Punjab, are battling flattening cereal productivity and soil toxicity precisely because of overuse of cheap fertilisers. Swaminathan is survived by three daughters -- Soumya Swaminathan, Madhura Swaminathan and Nitya Rao. His wife Mina Swaminathan predeceased him. Born in Kumbakonam on August 7, 1925, to M.K. Sambasivan, a surgeon, and Parvati Thangammal, Swaminathan earned his PhD from Cambridge University in 1952. He then travelled to the US on the liner Queen Elizabeth for further field studies in Wisconsin. Swaminathan has been a recipient of countless awards and honours, including the Padma Vibhushan, the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award, Ramon Magsaysay Award and the Albert Einstein World Science Award, among others. A key contribution was his recommendations as the chair of the National Commission on Farmers in 2004, in which he made a bunch of policy recommendations on improving farm incomes. In 2007, President APJ Abdul Kalam nominated Swaminathan to Rajya Sabha for a six-year term. Swaminathan also founded an eponymous research foundation, which worked to promote nutrition, health, millets and traditional farming knowledge systems. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON With Chinese Navy expected to increase its footprint in Indian Ocean through logistics support bases from Straits of Malacca to Gulf of Aden, Indian Navy has asked the Modi government for muscling up its strength by building another aircraft carrier, three nuclear powered submarines and six diesel-electric conventional submarines to tackle the PLA challenge. All the constructions will be done under PM Modis Atmanirbhar Bharat vision and in Indian shipyards. Indian MiG-29 K fighter makes a night landing on INS Vikrant in May 2023 Beijing under the cover of Belt-Road-Initiative (BRI) has turnaround logistics bases in Ream in Cambodia near Straits of Malacca, listening post at Coco Islands in the Bay of Bengal, Hambantota base in Sri Lanka, Gwadar in Balochistan, Jask naval base in Iran and a full-fledged berthing naval facility at Djibouti on the mouth of Red Sea and entry into Mediterranean Sea. It is understood that the Indian Navy brass has communicated to the Modi government that it plans to move the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) for acceptance of necessity (AON) of repeat order of 45000 ton Vikrant class of aircraft carrier after shelving plans for larger warship, three nuclear powered conventionally armed submarines (SSN) in collaboration with key allies like France, and high tech diesel-electric submarines under Project 76. Based on the projection that Chinese carrier strike force could be patrolling high seas in Indian Ocean as early as 2025-2026, the Indian Navy does not want gaps in its capabilities and not lose machine tooling capabilities due to lack of orders to shipyards like Kochi and Mazagon. India's first aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya is currently operational while INS Vikrant is undergoing routine overhaul in Karwar Naval base. Indian Navy submarines on high seas. While the Western media tries to play down the Chinese strike force capabilities, the Indian understanding is that Chinese aircraft carriers (Liaoning and Shandong) can conduct round-the-clock fighter operations and the PLA Navy is training naval fighter pilots within nine months. The under construction 80,000 ton Fujian carrier with electro-magnetic catapult capability will be ready for sea trial next year and even challenge the might of the US Navy in the Indo-Pacific. Even as India is in talks with France to construct additional three Kalveri class submarines in Mazagon dockyards in Mumbai which will be equipped with air-independent propulsion for longer endurance, Paris is ready to provide support and help New Delhi design and construct 5000 tons SSNs, similar to Suffren class, indigenously in India. Besides, the French Naval group is ready to co-design and develop Project 76 submarines if the Modi government decides to shelve the Project 75 I plan as the three additional Kalveri class will have DRDO designed and validated AIP. The Project 75 I envisaged six diesel-electric submarines with AIP. India has three Arihant class nuclear submarines with nuclear ballistic missiles as part of its credible nuclear deterrent. While one is fully operational, second is undergoing final phases of sea trials and third is also in initial phases of sea trials. Although the process to design and develop SSNs will take time, this strategic gap will be filled by the Russian Akula class submarine, which India has already paid for being leased to the Indian Navy. The vessel with land attack missiles is expected to join the Indian Navy in 2025. As PLA rapidly expands its capability on land and sea in line with Chinese President Xi Jinpings ambition to become numero uno power, the QUAD needs to prepare for a military emergency in Taiwan and India for military surprise along its 3488 km line of actual control with Tibet. One must remember that India recognized Tibet as part of China under J L Nehru, Beijing still considers Arunachal Pradesh as part of south Tibet and the India rejected 1959 cartographic line in East Ladakh as its border in occupied Aksai Chin. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Shishir Gupta Author of Indian Mujahideen: The Enemy Within (2011, Hachette) and Himalayan Face-off: Chinese Assertion and Indian Riposte (2014, Hachette). Awarded K Subrahmanyam Prize for Strategic Studies in 2015 by Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA) and the 2011 Ben Gurion Prize by Israel. ...view detail BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla on Thursday slammed the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over the Punjab police detaining Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira in connection with an old drugs case, questioning what took the Arvind Kejriwal-led party so long to take action. BJP National Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla (ANI File) The case is of 2015. AAP govt came into power in March 2022. Today we are in September 2023...What was taking AAP and its police and government so long to take action? the BJP leader questioned while speaking to news agency ANI. According to Poonawalla, Khaira was detained after the leader of the opposition in Punjab Partap Singh Bajwa claimed that 32 AAP MLAs were in touch with him. It seems that this development comes after Congress said they will fight all seats in Punjab...After the Congress and AAP have been fighting over the seven seats in Delhi, Poonwalla added. Meanwhile, BJP leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa also hit out at AAP saying, I remember a statement by Arvind Kejriwal where he said, 'give me Police and see what I will be doing', so that he what is being done. If someone is accused of something, he must be summoned firstmake him join the investigation, and if he doesn't answer then arrest him...Punjab police is being misused by the state government. Action is being taken against opposition leaders because they are speaking against the AAP government, he told ANI. The Punjab police on Thursday morning raided Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira's Chandigarh residence and detained him in connection with a 2015 case registered against him under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. While the raids were going on, Khaira went live on Facebook where he can be seen arguing with the police and asking for a warrant. To this, the police can be heard telling Khaira that he is being arrested in an old NDPS case on the recommendation of a probe conducted by an SIT led by a DIG rank officer and two SSPs. The MLA can be then seen claiming that the case was already quashed by the Supreme Court. (With inputs from ANI) Opposition parties obstructed the passage of womens reservation bill for the past three decades, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday, adding that now that the legislation has been cleared by Parliament, they are trying to divide women in the name of caste and religion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Vadodara on Wednesday. (PTI) Modi was addressing an event in Vadodara, organised by the Gujarat unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), to celebrate the passage of the womens reservation bill in both Houses of Parliament. Thousands of women attended the event at Navlakhi ground. Opposition stalled the womens reservation bill for three decades, look at their track record. They are trying to divide women in the name of caste and religion when the bill has been passed, Modi said. The prime minister further said that the opposition was compelled to support the passage of the womens reservation bill, which seeks to reserve 33% seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women. These are the same people who mocked me when I talked about toilets for women and when I talked about Jan Dhan accounts for women. They mocked the Ujjwala Yojana... When we talked about liberating Muslim women from triple talaq, they were concerned about their political equations, Modi said. Attacking the opposition INDIA bloc, calling it ghamandiya (arrogant), Modi added: While the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam may have been successfully passed, it is important to understand that this doesnt necessarily reflect an improvement in their intentions. For the past three decades, the opposition parties chose inaction, he said. They engaged in theatrics while we initiated change, only for others to obstruct itOne of them introduced the Bill while another one tore it And that another one is right now sitting with them (INDIA coalition), Modi said, in an apparent reference to RJD leader Surendra Yadav, who tore a copy of the womens reservation bill in the Lok Sabha in 1998. This bill has been possible because of the strength of women. Otherwise, they (Opposition) were involved in match-fixing to stall this bill Today, they are left wondering how Modi managed to achieve this, the prime minister said. At a separate event on the concluding day of his two-day visit to Gujarat, Modi inaugurated development projects worth over 5,200 crore, including education projects worth 4,500 crore, at Bodeli in the tribal-dominated Chhota Udepur district. Since I spent significant time with you, I know the issues faced by the poor people and I have always tried to solve those issues. Today I am satisfied because my government has built 4 crore [40 million] houses for the people across the country, he said. Unlike previous governments, a house for the poor is not just a number for us. We work to provide dignity to the poor by building houses for them. He added: Lakhs of houses were built and registered in the names of our women. Though I dont have a house in my name, my government made lakhs of daughters houseowners. India will soon emerge as a global economic powerhouse, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday as he declared that his aim is to make the country a global growth engine and accused the previous Congress-led governments of trying to discourage foreign investors from coming to Gujarat. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel being served tea by a robot at Science City, in Ahmedabad, Wednesday. (PTI) Speaking at an event to mark 20 years of success of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit, Modi said his government sowed the seeds of a Vibrant Gujarat 20 years ago, and it developed into a big tree. We are standing at such a phase that India will soon emerge as global economic powerhouse, he said. It was my guarantee to you from a few years from now, in front of your eyes, India will be among three top economies of the world. He said that the summit aimed at wooing global investors was started 20 years ago to make the state a growth engine for India. After 2014, our aim became to make India a global growth engine, he said. He also hit out at the previous United Progressive Alliance government, saying central ministers would refuse to attend the event and even threatened foreign investors to discourage them from participating. ...those who ran the central government saw Gujarats development through the prism of politics ...In-person, they would tell me that they would like to attend but would later refuse, Modi said. Reacting to the PMs speech, Gujarat Congress president and Rajya Sabha MP, Shaktisinh Gohil said, They should not imply that they are solely responsible for Gujarats progress. In the past, when there were no Vibrant Gujarat summits, the state still held the top rank in development, and at that time, the Congress was in power. Modi who was Gujarats chief minister when the summit was launched in September 2003 alleged that far from cooperating, the previous government put hurdles in his way. Twenty years have passed... we cherish all the memories both sweet and bitter. Today, the entire world is watching Vibrant Gujarat. He said foreign investors chose to invest in Gujarat despite challenges due to their positive experiences good, transparent, policy-driven governance, fairness, and equitable growth opportunities. I have always maintained that Gujarats progress shows the progress of the entire nation. Modi said the summit, whose next edition is scheduled to take place in January, may be a brand for the world, but it is his bond with Gujarats 70 million people. It is a bond of limitless love. He referred to Swami Vivekanandas wisdom to emphasise three stages of an idea initial laughter, criticism, and eventual acceptance. He added it was particularly true of an idea ahead of its time. Modi recalled the challenging circumstances under which he took over as CM in 2002. He referred to the 2001 earthquake, which left thousands dead. Gujarat grappled with famine. The Madhavpura Mercantile Cooperative Bank collapsed... 133 more banks were severely affected. The states financial sector was in dire straits. At that time, I assumed the role of a leader for the first time. Modi said it was a new role for him with no prior experience in running a government. Then, violence erupted in Gujarat in the wake of the heart-rending Godhra incident. He said the challenges were beyond anyones imagination. As chief minister, I had limited experience, but my faith in Gujarat and its people remained unwavering. He referred to agenda-driven doomsayers and a conspiracy to defame Gujarat. Those who had an agenda were trying to interpret things in their own way. They said that Gujarats industrialists, and traders will go away... the state will be shattered in a way that it will become a burden for the country. He said an attempt was made to create an atmosphere of despair. It was said that Gujarat will never be able to again stand on its feet. I took a pledge that whatever the situation, I would get Gujarat out of this. We were not only thinking of rejuvenation but also of the future. He said the summit became an important medium against this backdrop. It allowed us to talk to the world, to show it the industrial might of the country through Gujarat, and Indias talent and rich heritage. Modi said there were no big hotels in Gujarat when the summit started. In 2009, when Vibrant Gujarat was organised, there was a slowdown in the world. Everyone told me not to hold it as it would be a flop. I told them then it would not stop. If it flops, we will be criticised but it should not stop. He said the number of participants has grown from 100 in 2003 to over 40,000 from 135 countries. Thirty exhibitors then and now over 2000. Modi recalled the humble beginnings of the summit in makeshift tents. Instead of hotels, business houses and university guest houses generously provided accommodation for guests. He said the inception of the summit was truly an unprecedented and unheard-of idea. Its resounding success inspired other states to follow suit, reflecting the groundbreaking nature of the initiative. Modi said the vision was to accomplish something that had not been attempted at a national level. Establishing a partnership with a developed country was a groundbreaking move. It surprised many about how a state could achieve such a feat. However grand the idea and imaginative, the vision and path to success demanded meticulous planning and relentless effort. He said the summits evolution from a one-time event into an enduring institution is a testament to its impact. Its influence extends far beyond the event itself, with a continuous process that operates within and outside the government, both before and after the event. With each edition, Vibrant Gujarat reached new heights, relentlessly focusing on infrastructure development and economic progress. Questioning the PMs comments on the success of the summit, Gohil said, The MoUs signed during the Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors Summit (VGGIS) have largely remained on paper. I call upon the Prime Minister to release the actual figures regarding how many of these MoUs have translated into real investments. The Gujarat government, which claims to have generated extensive employment during these summits, should provide concrete data on employment in the state. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday felicitated the Madhya Pradesh government after Indore bagged the top spot and the state was adjudged the top performer in the Best State category in the National Smart Cities Award. President Droupadi Murmu and Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan during the 'India Smart Cities Conclave 2023', in Indore. (PTI) The President honoured the winners of the fourth edition of the India Smart Cities Award Contest (ISAC) during the Indian Smart Cities Conclave 2023 held in Indore. Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who was also present during the occasion said that the state is setting new dimensions by bagging the title of the best state in the country. Madhya Pradesh was followed by Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh respectively in the state category. Chandigarh was awarded as best Union territory during the event during which 66 smart cities were awarded. The President while congratulating Indore said that the city maintained its unique position and has retained the top spot. Indore has maintained its unique position as the cleanest city of India and (has) also topped among all the smart cities of the country, she said. Congratulating the award-winning smart cities, Murmu said, Cities like Indore, Surat, Kohima, Srinagar have presented successful examples of well-planned urbanization through public participation. She added, Safe, clean and healthy neighbourhoods have to be developed throughout the country. Reacting to Indores win, chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that the city is used to being at the top in every phase while crediting the residents for the award. Indore is used to being at the top in every phase. This (the win) would not have been possible without the cooperation of the residents, said the CM. We all are proud that Madhya Pradesh has got the title of best state...and is setting new dimensions in the direction of development, he added. Five smart cities of Madhya Pradesh have received 13 awards in different categories. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Union home minister Amit Shah and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief JP Nadda held a series of meetings, including with former chief minister Vasundhara Raje, in Jaipur on Wednesday and Thursday as part of attempts to iron out differences between state leaders ahead of the declaration of the partys first list of candidates for the Rajasthan polls. Union home minister Amit Shah and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief JP Nadda in Jaipur. (ANI) The BJP has released lists of candidates for the other two states due to go to the polls this yearMadhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. The differences between the state leaders are believed to have been among the reasons for the delay in finalising candidates for the polls in Congress-ruled Rajasthan. The fresh set of meetings is seen as an attempt to reach out to disgruntled leaders and convince them to set aside their differences and project unity within the BJP ranks. People aware of the matter said the BJPs parliamentary board was due to meet in Delhi to finalise the first list of candidates for the Rajasthan polls. Against this backdrop, Shah and Nadda flew to Jaipur on a special plane on Wednesday. BJP general secretary (organisation) BL Santhosh earlier arrived at noon and held a meeting at the partys state headquarters. Shah, Nadda, and Santhosh met Raje after her absence from the BJPs Parivartan Sankalp Yatras to drum up support ahead of polls triggered speculation about a rift within the party amid an ambiguity about her role. Member of Parliament (MP) Diya Kumari, who did not have any scheduled meeting with the central leaders, met them for about 10 minutes before a three-hour core committee meeting began around 8pm. State BJP chief CP Joshi, Union ministers Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Kailash Choudhary and Arjun Ram Meghwal, Raje, leader of opposition Rajendra Rathore, MP Rajyavardhan Rathore, and state election in charge Pralhad Joshi were among those who attended the meeting. People aware of the matter said the central leaders emphasised the need for unity within the party. They asked the state leaders to work together. Managing rebels was among other things discussed at the meeting. The people said the partys chances on all 200 seats were discussed along with the strategy for winning those the BJP has not won in the last three polls. Shah, Nadda, and Santhosh discussed the strategy for each seat on the basis of the internal survey at a separate meeting with the state in charge. Prime Minister Narendra Modis proposed public meetings in Chittorgarh on October 2 and in Jodhpur on October 5 were also discussed. He earlier addressed a public meeting to mark the culmination in Jaipur on September 2 of the BJPs four pre-poll yatras. Assembly elections in Rajasthan and four other states, accounting for roughly 15% of Indias population, this year are expected to set the tone for the 2024 national elections. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The October program meeting of the Platte County Historical Society will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 1, in the west building meeting room. Randy Perault will present the program on Emiel Christensen. Christensen is known as a local architect who designed the Oak Ballroom in Schuyler, the Izaak Walton Lodge south of Columbus, and a few residential homes in Columbus. He also was a decorated World War I veteran, a University of Nebraska professor, a community planner, an accomplished public speaker and a visionary environmentalist. New Delhi: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has referred the complaints against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lawmaker Ramesh Bidhuri for using religious slurs against Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) MP Danish Ali on the floor of the House last week to the privileges committee. He also referred a complaint against Ali for inciting Bidhuri by using highly objectionable comment against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla refers complaints against BJP MP Rameh Bidhuri for using religious slurs against BSP MP Danish Ali to the privileges committee. (PTI) While at least four opposition MPs have written to Birla urging action against Bidhuri, the complaint against Ali was filed by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey. All the complaints have been sent to the privileges committee as per the practice followed in the Lok Sabha, people aware of the details said on Thursday. Also Read| Exposed BJPs face': Danish Ali takes swipe after Ramesh Bidhuri gets new role as poll in-charge Bidhuri triggered a massive controversy by targeting the BSP lawmaker with religious slurs that amount to hate speech during the special session in the new Parliament building last week. The video of the abusive attack, which took place in the Lok Sabha during a discussion on the success of Chandrayaan-3 on September 21, went viral on social media and provoked outrage from other parliamentarians, some of whom including Ali sought action over breach of parliamentary privilege. In his letter to the speaker, Congresss floor leader in the House, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said: never in the history of Parliament have such words been used against a member of a minority community. Considering the circumstances and the brazen violation of all norms and rules relating to the functioning of the House, it would only be appropriate to have the matter examined in detail by the Privileges Committee and punitive action taken against the errant Member, Ramesh Bidhuri, he added in the letter. Dubey in his complaint to the speaker said Ali had incited Bidhuri and this aspect should also be considered while examining the complaints against him. He alleged that the BSP MP made a highly objectionable and demeaning comment against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which he claimed incited Bidhuri to react. Ali has denied the allegation. In a post on X in Hindi, Dubey said his complaint is now being looked into. Earlier, the BJP issued a show-cause notice to Bidhuri, asking the South Delhi MP to explain his conduct within 10 days. Ali denied using any unparliamentary words against the PM, and said the BJP was trying to frame a narrative against him that he provoked Bidhuri in Parliament. I had demanded that the speaker expunge the highly objectionable words used against Modiji from the record, Ali posted on X. BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri who was issued a showcause notice by the party after he abused BSP's Muslim MP Danish Ali in the Lok Sabha has been given the election duty in Rajasthan's Tonk. Congress' Sachin Pilot is Tonk's MLA. Opposition leaders said giving responsibility of the election in-charge amid the storm over his comments on Danish Ali only shows Bidhuri is being rewarded for his action. "How does showcaused person be given new role by BJP? @narendramodi ji - is this your Sneha Yatra for minorities, your love outreach?" Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra said. Ramesh Bidhuri was under fire for abusing BSP MP Kunwar Danish Ali in the Lok Sabha. (PTI) "Sabka saath, sabka vikas, sabka vishwasyeh sab hai inka bakwaas," Congress leader Jairam Ramesh posted on X. Opposition leader Kapil Sibal said Bidhuri has been rewarded for attacking danish Ali and been made BJP in-charge in Tonk where Muslim population is 29.25%. Ramesh Bidhuri's comments on Danish Ali drew flak and defence minister Rajnath Singh expressed regret for the comments. The BJP too did not delay taking action against the controversial MP issuing a showcause notice to him. However, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey who was present inside the House when the exchange between Bidhuri and Danish Ali took place gave a different twist to the incident and said Danish Ali incited Bidhuri by using some derogatory words -- a charge that Danish Ali rejected. Several BJP leaders took Bidhuri's side and demanded a probe into his conduct, while the opposition leaders rallied behind Danish. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi went to meet Danish at his residence a day after the incident took place. In the aftermath of the row, Danish Ali on Wednesday said he had been receiving hateful and threatening messages. "Since the parliament episode came to light last Friday, some individuals are sending hateful messages and issuing threats to my life. Hope Delhi Police will notice and take appropriate action," Dansih posted on X and tagged Union home minister Amit Shah. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Supreme Court has admitted a second petition seeking action against Tamil Nadu minister Udayanidhi Stalin over his comment on eradicating Sanatana Dharma even as the government of the southern state called the pleas publicity interest litigation which should be discouraged. The Supreme Court. (ANI) We are not issuing notice but will simply tag it, said a bench of justices Aniruddha Bose and Bela M Trivedi on Wednesday while hearing lawyer Vineet Jindals public interest litigation (PIL). Jindal sought registration of a criminal case against Stalin for his comments that Sanatan Dharma was against social justice and should be eradicated. The court last week issued notice on the first petition. Madras high court lawyer B Jagannath was the first to move the Supreme Court against Stalins comments. Tamil Nadus additional advocate general Amit Anand Tiwari opposed the second petition. These are publicity interest litigations. If such petitions were to be entertained, there would be nearly 30-40 petitions in different high courts. It becomes very difficult for the state. Tiwari said it was unfortunate how such petitions are circulated in the media for publicity. The bench told the state that there are remedies provided under the Constitution. Jindals lawyer, Raj Kishor Chaudhary, told the court that it was surprising how the state was trying to defend Stalins statement. We have come against a genocidal call made by the state. The bench agreed to examine Jindals petition when the other matter comes up for hearing. Jindal has also filed a hate speech complaint with the Delhi Police. The Supreme Court last week heard Jagannaths petition and said such matters should be filed in the high court but agreed to examine the issue. Jagannaths lawyer told the court that this was a classic case of hate speech where the state was unleashing a tirade against a particular religion and the police failed to act. NEW DELHI: The Sri Lankan government is set to unveil new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for visits by foreign ships or aircraft, including military assets, as part of efforts to address Indias concerns over port calls by Chinese vessels, people familiar with the matter said. File photo of Yuan Wang 5 Chinese missile tracker off Sri Lanka in 2022. (File) The SOPs, which will include guidelines and details about the type of vessels to be allowed into Sri Lankas ports and territorial waters, are expected to be formally announced by authorities in Colombo soon, people familiar with the initiative in both Sri Lanka and India said on condition of anonymity. The development comes against the backdrop of a diplomatic row between New Delhi and Colombo last year over the docking of Yuan Wang 5, a vessel used by the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) to track satellites and ballistic missiles, at the Chinese-controlled Hambantota port. Another Peoples Liberation Army Navy vessel, Hai Yang 24 Hao, known to have surveillance capabilities, visited Colombo port in August 2023. One of the people cited above said: The SOPs will lay down the type of vessels that can make port calls. For instance, the class of submarines and warships that can make visits to Sri Lankas ports. The SOPs will also state how long the vessels can remain in the countrys territorial waters and the type of activities they can engage in. A second person familiar with the initiative on the Indian side said: These guidelines and SOPs are fine but what will matter are actions taken on the ground. The Indian sides greatest concern is that the Chinese vessels can use their equipment to snoop on Indian security facilities while in Sri Lankan waters, the people said. Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe referred to the SOPs while participating in the Annual Indo-Pacific Islands Dialogue organised by Carnegie Endowment in New York this month. He contended the new SOPs were built on earlier procedures set by the Sri Lankan Navy and were framed following consultations with the Indian side. Recently, we had discussions with India and weve now taken on all the amendments. So, any ships that come in now are according to an operation procedure which we have done together with India. I cant see any ship thats a threat coming in through that operating procedure, Wickremesinghe said. He said only Chinese research vessels visit the island country under the terms of agreements between the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) and some universities of Sri Lanka. Such vessels have visited Sri Lanka for the past 10 years, he added. Both India and the US have expressed concern about a planned visit to Sri Lanka by another Chinese research vessel, Shi Yan 6, described by Chinas state media as a ship with a 60-member crew that conducts oceanography, marine geology and marine ecology tests. China sought permission from Sri Lanka in August for a port call by the vessel, but the people said a final decision on dates for a visit is yet to be made. While the Indian side conveyed its concerns to authorities in Colombo, US under secretary of state for political affairs Victoria Nuland took up the matter with Sri Lankan foreign minister Ali Sabry during a meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York. Shi Yan 6 is expected to arrive in Sri Lanka in October to carry out tests with NARA. 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 Union Minister for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal hit out at Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot for questioning of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar's recent visit to the state, saying whether the Vice President needs to take the Chief Minister's permission for coming to his state. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar (PTI) "For the Vice President (Jagdeep Dhankhar), the CM (Ashok Gehlot) said, why is he coming now? So the Vice President will come after getting permission from him?" Meghwal said while speaking to reporters in Jaipur on Thursday. Ashok Gehlot has objected to Jagdeep Dhankhars frequent visits to the state ahead of the upcoming state Assembly elections in November. Speaking about Dhankar's visit, Meghwal said, "It was a central government program for groundnut farmers in Bikaner which he inaugurated. This will benefit our groundnut farmers here." "Earlier they had to go to Gujarat to get export quality seeds. Now they will be produced here. 2000 farmers participated in the program, and 15-20 thousand farmers are expected to join in the coming times. The Vice President came here for the welfare of farmers," Meghwal elaborated on the purpose of the Vice President's visit. Attacking Ashok Gehlot for engaging in 'politics' over the Vice President's visit, he said, "The Chief Minister is doing politics on this, this is not right." Meanwhile, Rajasthan Deputy Leader of Opposition Satish Poonia said on Thursday that when tall leaders come to the state it leads to confidence-building among the party cadres. "When big leaders come it leads to confidence in the cadres and the message reaches the masses. We will work hard and make the BJP win with a good majority," Poonia said, speaking to reporters on Union Minister Amit Shah and BJP national chief JP Nadda's recent visit to Rajasthan. Speaking on the message given by Amit Shah and JP Nadda during their recent visit to the state, Poonia said, "The message has been given by (them) to contest the elections strongly and win the elections. We will put all efforts and make BJP win with majority...'' On the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate list for the upcoming state assembly elections, the Deputy Leader of Opposition said, "The list (of candidates) will be prepared in Delhi." Speaking on the strategy to be adopted by his party to take on the Ashok Gehlot government, Poonia said, "There are many issues against the current government. On top of that there is Modijis charisma and his work, the work of the party organisation. The party symbol and image, Modiji's name and work are our greatest strength." Rajasthan will go to polls in November this year. The BJP is expected to take on the Congress in the desert state ahead of the crucial 2024 Lok Sabha elections. A 24-year-old girl was beaten, assaulted and dragged by hair outside a spa by her business partner in Gujarat's Ahmadabad. The incident, which happened on September 25, came to light after a CCTV footage of the incident went viral on social media. Mohsin is currently on the run. (File) In the 4-minute-long video, Galaxy Spa owner Mohsin is seen repeatedly thrashing a Northeast woman, who was his business partner, and even tearing her clothes apart. He was also seen dragging her by her hair across a balcony on the spa premises, where the incident happened, India Today reported. Police found out during interrogation that she was Mohsin's business partner. An argument between the duo turned violent, following which Mohsin thrashed and dragged the victim. The investigation on the matter began on September 27 after the Ahmedabad Police registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Mohsin after the video went viral. Tripura politician Pradyot Debbarma, former head of Tipra Motha, shared the video and condemned the assault on a woman; a northeast woman. "This footage is horrible . To see any woman let alone someone from our Northeast region treated like this is outrageous. I hope @AhmedabadPolice takes cognisance and takes action against these men," he wrote. The woman did not file a complaint against Mohsin until two days after the incident happened, India Today reported. However, it was when the Bodakdev police reached out to her through a social worker and counselled her, she filed a complaint against the accused. As per India Today, Mohsin is currently on the run. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday launched a sharp attack at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the allegations of him renovating his official residence at a cost allegedly to the tune of 45 crore. Breaking his silence on the matter, Kejriwal probed if Narendra Modi would resign as a Prime Minsiter if the Central Bureau of India (CBI), tasked to investigate the matter, fail to discover evidence warranting the case. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal (PTI) The Union home ministry on Wednesday ordered a CBI probe into the allegations raised by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) claiming that the Delhi government, during the period when the country was reeling under the impact of Covid-19, spent 45 crore to renovate his official residence. The probe agency later registered a preliminary enquiry into the alleged irregularities. While welcoming the move to carry out a CBI-level probe into the matter, Kejriwal asserted that the investigating agency will not find anything. "Kejriwal will not bow down no matter how many fake investigations are initiated," he told reporters, adding that PM Modi is nervous. Just as nothing was found in all the previous inquiries, similarly if nothing is found in this inquiry too, will he (PM Modi) resign for making a false inquiry? he asked. The Delhi CM claimed that over 50 such enquiries have been initiated against him regarding issue ranging from the liquor policy, education and transportation. "They registered more than 33 cases against me. They have been investigating for the last 8 years, since I became the chief minister of Delhi, but nothing has been found. They have started this new inquiry. I welcome this too, as nothing will be found," he added. A Bengaluru court on Thursday passed an ex-parte injunction order to social media company X (formerly Twitter) to suspend the account of a doctor known for busting pseudoscience through his regular posts. The Bengaluru Civil Court passed the order in a suit filed by Himalaya Wellness Corporation, which alleged that Dr Cyriac Abby Philips, a hepatologist who goes by the name of The Liver Doc on X, made defamatory allegations against the company, according to Live Law. Dr Cyriac Abby Philips's X account withheld. Dr Philips's social media account on X has been withheld after the case was filed by Himalaya Wellness Corporation, which describes itself as a herbal health and personal care company based in Bengaluru. According to a report by Live Law, the company contended that the hepatologist has been posting derogatory statements against its products which resulted in substantial business losses. The doctor's withheld social media account on X says, @theliverdr has been withheld in globally in response to a legal demand. Who is Dr Cyriac Abby Philips? Philips hails from Kerala and is known for his social media posts and YouTube videos that claim to debunk pseudoscience and reject the prevalent notions about home remedies. For quite some time now, the hepatologist has been claiming to bust myths around alternative medicines and therapies like Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. At a time when the government pushing for alternative medicines with a separate Ayush ministry in place, Philips argues these medicines and therapies lack scientific basis and can cause harm to patients. Take this example. Earlier this year, Philips raised concern over the amount of alcohol used in some homoeopathic medicines and alleged that Homeopathy is just rival business against the real alcohol lobby. He flagged that Sativol, a homoeopathic medicine frequently prescribed for treating fatigue, has a standard alcohol concentration of 40%, the same amount that a branded whiskey contains. According to The Print, Philips's crusade against alternative medicines began in 2017 when he encountered patients suffering from liver failure due to the use of Ayurveda pills. Using his Twitter platform, he relentlessly exposes unproven claims, critiques misleading advertisements, and questions the efficacy of Ayurveda and Homeopathy. The doctor was even threatened with defamation by the Ayush ministry over his remarks on giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), a herb used extensively in Ayurveda, during an interview with a Malayalam YouTube channel. He was served a notice from the Kerala State Medical Council for Indian Systems of Medicine in February 2022 and cleared of all charges in October. 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 [MS Swaminathan (August 7, 1925 - September 28, 2023) wrote several articles for the Hindustan Times over five decades, from the late 1960s to the 2010s that touched upon the Green Revolution, how the revolution should continue, the harmful impact of food inflation and the country's food policy. This article was first published on August 7, 2007] Small and marginal farmer households account for 84 per cent of all farmer households.(AFP File Photo) Towards the end of 1966, the late Vikram Sarabhai and I called on the then Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi, to brief her on the power of television and remote sensing techniques in accelerating the progress in enhancing the productivity of farming systems. She turned to me and asked, How soon can we build a stock of 10 million tonnes of wheat? I was a little taken aback by this question, but I later realised that this was because we had to import 10 million tonnes of wheat that year, largely under the PL-480 programme of the United States. More than anyone else, she understood the relationship between food sovereignty and national sovereignty. I recall mentioning to her then that the first production breakthrough will occur in 1968 and that we can build the grain reserve desired by her by the early 1970s. Fortunately, this happened, although in agriculture, predictions can often go wrong as a result of factors like unfavourable weather and pest epidemics. Indira Gandhi was determined to build a large grain reserve, irrespective of the cost involved, often against the advice of the Planning Commission and Finance Ministry. This was a significant chapter in the evolution of our food security system. I recall the instance to emphasise that had this wisdom continued to guide our public policy, we would not now have been in a position where we buy wheat from abroad at a cost double of what is paid to our farmers. In Indira Gandhis time in the 1960s and early 1970s, our population was only 600 million. Now it is over 1.1 billion. Chronic undernutrition and malnutrition are widespread, particularly among children and women. A blame game does not help anyone. What is important is to learn appropriate lessons from the economic and political dangers inherent in policies, which will make us depend upon imported food to operate the Public Distribution System (PDS). First, how can we achieve the desired growth rate in agricultural production? The growth rate in the production of cereals declined from 4.13 per cent in the period 1984-85 to 1994-95. From here it dipped to 1.09 per cent between 1994-95 and 2004-05. Annual growth rate in the agriculture sector as a whole declined from 3.69 per cent in the period 1990-96 to 1.65 per cent during 1996-2005. Net sown area, gross cropped area, fertiliser use and electricity consumption all declined. Growth rate of terms of trade for agriculture declined from 0.95 per cent per annum during 1990-96 to -1.63 per cent during 1996-2005. In Punjab, even farmers with over 3.00 hectares are unable to earn an income comparable to that of a class IV employee of the Government of India. Small and marginal farmer households account for 84 per cent of all farmer households. Fifty-seven per cent of Indias total employment and 73 per cent of total rural employment come from this sector. Farming in our country is the backbone of the livelihood security system for a majority of our population. The National Commission of Farmers (NCF) has proposed an integrated strategy. This involves concurrent attention to soil health care, water-harvesting and efficient use of the same. Concurrent to this are credit and insurance reforms; agricultural techniques that are socially, environmentally and economically sustainable; and assured and remunerative marketing opportunities. Special emphasis will have to be paid to Bihar, eastern UP, West Bengal and Assam, where water is not a limiting factor in crop production. Defending the gains already achieved through conservation farming, and extending the gains to rain-fed areas and eastern India, should form part of the sustainable food security strategy. An important part of such a strategy would also be to make new gains through farming systems diversification and value-addition. Unfortunately, the proposed National Food Security Mission involving an outlay of 5,000 crore during the Eleventh Plan period is based on a business-as-usual approach, which is controlled by numerous bureaucratic committees, with farm women and men being relegated to the position of beneficiaries. The second major need to ensure food for all and forever is the building of a few instruments like a land-use advisory system based on the integration of data from meteorological systems and marketing factors. In addition to this, a market intelligence system is required, which will help safeguard the interests of farmers on the one hand and ensure adequate grain reserves through timely imports, on the other. The policy of allowing large multinational corporations to mop up our wheat surplus was fatal in terms of timing. China has a very efficient food management system. For example, at a time when the price of rice was double that of wheat, China adopted the policy of exporting rice and importing double the quantity of wheat for every ton of rice exported. The NCF has suggested a pricing policy for procurement for public good. It will be prudent to adopt this system as soon as possible. The NCF has also suggested the establishment of a National Food Security and Sovereignty Board chaired by the Prime Minister, with the concerned Ministers and leaders of all the major political parties and a few Chief Ministers as members. We need to develop the capacity to take informed proactive decisions, and action, to maintain substantial grain reserves as well as universalise our PDS. The sooner we do this, the greater will be the possibility of avoiding both a ship-to-mouth existence and widespread food riots. Here are the other articles that MS Swaminathan wrote for the Hindustan Times New frontiers in farming (1967) Implications for India (1969) Keeping the Green Revolution green (1996) A do-or-die year for agriculture, thanks to food inflation (2010) SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR MS Swaminathan MS Swaminathan, 98, popularly known as the father of Indias Green Revolution, died at his Chennai home on Thursday. Under his tutelage, in a career spanning nearly half a century, the agricultural scientist transformed India from being dependent on humiliating food donations to feed its population to being self-sufficient, saving millions from deadly famines. ...view detail From her apartment in Hay Charaf, a residential neighborhood in the northern suburbs of Marrakech in Morocco, Oumou Sall cares for her newborn baby. The 27-year-old Senegalese woman moved to Morocco in 2017 to complete her master's degree in business management. She is now on maternity leave, but in a week's time she will return to work in a call center one among many in the city. Morocco has seen an increase in women migrants from sub-Saharan countries like Senegal (Marco Simoncelli/DW ) Oumou's story is similar to many other women from sub-Saharan Africa who are migrating to the North African country in increasing numbers. According to the last official figures released by the United Nations in 2020, 48.5% of Morocco's regular migrant population are women. Fitting in wasn't difficult, she told DW: "I quickly found other sub-Saharan [migrants] in the company and relations with the bosses were good." Morocco's changing job landscape means it is no longer just a stopover on the long migration route to Europe, but a possible destination for many women seeking higher-paying jobs to support themselves and their families. Call center boom offers employment Morocco's call center industry has undergone a boom over the past 15 years, making it easier for many French-speaking migrants to find work. Oumou, who is originally from Dakar, said getting hired in call centers is simple enough even without a degree a good knowledge of French is usually sufficient. Her fixed pay is 2,500 dirhams (322, $340) a month, alongside various performance-based bonuses enough to send remittances back to her family in Senegal. "We actually work for rewards," Oumou explains. "So if we get them and get good results, then we can send money back to our families and save money." Switching up the migrant narrative About 250 kilometers south of Marrakech, in the Cite Essalam area of Agadir, Senegalese entrepreneur Khady Wade Balde elegantly welcomes her clients mostly Moroccan women in one of her beauty salons, "Khady Hair". While watching over her team of about a dozen employees, she recounts her solo journey to Morocco in 2008. The then-23-year-old came with a plan to improve her hairdressing skills. She secured an apprenticeship under the guidance of a Moroccan mentor and, after years of work and personal sacrifice, she eventually opened her first salon. "At the time, sub-Saharan African women were just taking babysitting (jobs)," she told DW. "There were no hairdressers like today. At first they thought I was a maid, but I wanted to be a hairdresser." Today, Khady is a sought-after hairdresser in her area. She said she's satisfied with what she's achieved here as a migrant, but is aware of the enormous difficulties faced by other sub-Saharan women in Morocoo. "I don't know (what goes on) in other people's lives, but I know it is hard for some of them. It is not as easy for everyone as it was for me." Falling through the cracks For every success story like Khady's, there are many more women who are stuck in limbo. There are a reported 70,000 to 200,000 sub-Saharan migrants in Morocco many of them undocumented. Women without documentation are particularly vulnerable to various forms of exploitation and marginalization, especially in the agricultural and domestic service sectors. Faced with growing numbers of migrants, Rabat has also been forced to review its integration policies. Two regularization campaigns in 2014 and 2017 enabled some 50,000 migrants many from sub-Saharan Africa to obtain residence permits. According to Aida Kheireddine, a Moroccan researcher and expert in gender and migration, these campaigns were initially beneficial for the migrant community. "We saw for the first time in Morocco's history a mass regularization operation of migrants and special attention was given to women," she told DW. "There were criteria, you had to have been in Morocco for more than five years, etc.and priority was given to women and children. From 2018, we have seen this policy regress." Despite the regularization efforts, Morocco's legal framework is still governed by a law written back in 2003 which complicates the process of obtaining residence permits. Researchers and NGOs also report a lack of gender sensitivity in migration regulations and legislation. According to Kheireddine, women with unstable jobs are especially at risk. "(They are) at risk of different types of violence," she explains. "First and foremost, sexual violence. Violence experienced by undocumented migrants is a daily occurrence." Domestic work still risky for women In Casablanca, Adji (editor's note: name changed) works as a cleaner and a nanny for a Moroccan couple. She arrived in Morocco in 2019 and is originally from the Casamance region in Senegal. Her first priority is funding her children's education back in Senegal. She found her first job in Morocco through an agency, but after four years it ended badly. She remains vague on the details. "I never asked for a salary increase," she told DW. "All I wanted was for them to help me with the regularization paperwork." Like many of her female colleagues, Adji has remained undocumented since her arrival. Working 10-12 hour shifts a day for 2,500 3,000 dirhams a month, she tries to put things into perspective. "It's still the best you can get. If I were in Senegal, I could never get this salary." After a decade of debate, a new domestic work law took effect in Morocco in 2018. At the time it was hailed as significant progress and included a requirement for a standard contract. But by 2021, only 5,000 female domestic workers have been registered under the new system out of an estimated workforce of over one million. Adji said she occasionally faces discrimination on public transport or at work from other Moroccan colleagues. But she still hopes to one day take a pastry course here and eventually return to Senegal. "I think the difficulties these women face are mainly related to the fact that they are not informed when they arrive, about where to stay, what the steps are and so on," said Ndeye Yacine Ndiaye, another Senegalese worker who has lived in the Bourgogne neighborhood of Casablanca for 15 years. She arrived with a master's degree and today works as a communications manager in a bank. Together with her husband, she decided to get involved in the sub-Saharan migrant community and help others like her. She founded the online platform "Attaches Plurielles," which aims to show "the other side of the sub-Saharan diaspora in Morocco" by interviewing both migrants and migration experts about the issues affecting the community. "We try to show the brave women who do excellent work, who don't just let themselves be, but try to unlock their situation. Those who have the will to succeed." This reporting project was supported by the Pulitzer Center. Edited by: Ineke Mules 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 Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee convened a meeting on Wednesday to deliberate a report on the first round of disciplinary inspections launched at the end of March by the 20th CPC Central Committee. Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, presided over the meeting. The meeting's participants pointed out that the first round of disciplinary inspections had advanced political oversight in a "concrete, targeted and regular "manner, sending a clear signal that adhering to strict governance of the Party and the Party's self-reform is an ongoing process. Practice has proven that disciplinary inspections are an effective means to identify and solve problems, and continued efforts should be made in this regard, they said. The disciplinary inspections involved leading Party organizations in 30 centrally administered State-owned enterprises, five major financial agencies and the General Administration of Sport of China. Between Sept 20 and 22, a total of 15 central inspection teams delivered their feedback and specified problems involving the inspected organizations. The problems include shortcomings in ensuring coordination between development and security, self-governance of the Party and the Party's frugality rules. The meeting's participants urged the inspected Party organizations, especially the leading officials, to shoulder their responsibilities and take strict and concrete measures to rectify problems. They also urged the inspected Party organizations to strengthen the Party's overall leadership, continuously enhance the core functions and competitiveness of the SOEs, consolidate the material and political foundations of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and increase financial enterprises' support for the real economy and national strategies in order to promote high-quality development. It is necessary to coordinate development and security, keep the worst-case scenario in mind and take effective measures to prevent and address major risks, the meeting's participants said. Disciplinary inspections are an important way for the CPC to fight against corruption and conduct checks and oversight over the exercise of power within the Party as well as Party officials' conduct and style of work. caodesheng@chinadaily.com.cn For Dr. Matt Kelly, coming to Columbus for his residency in psychiatry seemed the natural choice. Growing up in Nebraska and traveling a lot with his military family and his own military career, he said, hes excited to come back. This was made possible through a partnership between Columbus Community Hospital (CCH) and the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), Kelly said, which encourages UNMC students to work out of rural areas instead of just staying in Omaha for all the residencies. UNMC will invest in sending someone to places like Columbus or North Platte for a time, he said, as a result of a state mandate. For him, it was an opportunity to reconnect with his roots. Making this my home and serving the people of Nebraska, that was my first step toward making my journey back to this state, Kelly said. The stars aligned where Dr. (Venkata) Kolli is a good partner out here and we were able to make that become a reality. Until the end of October, Kelly will be working at the psychiatry clinic with Dr. Venkata Kolli diagnosing, managing medication and assisting with therapy. Back in the early days of medicine, Kelly pointed out, the term residency was very literal as doctors in residency would live at the hospital. Now, its more of a training practice, Kolli said. I think some words that might resonate with patients would be advanced training, advanced apprenticeship, because Dr. Kelly is going to graduate and can practice next July. Hes in year 13 of 13 years of his education, Kolli said. Kelly said his interest in psychiatry stems from the more human side of the science of the brain. While the biomedical aspect is important and interesting, he said, the convergence between the physical, mental and social sides of patients that really drove him toward this specialty. Were also seeking to understand patients from the psychological perspective, understanding their stories, personalities, all of that and the social context, who the important people are in their life, what belief system they hold near and dear to heart, Kelly said. Marrying all three of those aspects of the patient is what makes psychiatry interesting and fun. Jenny Buggi, practice manager at the psychiatry clinic, said while Kellys stay is temporary, his assistance is appreciated as they always try to keep patients waiting as little as possible and another set of hands on deck helps immensely. Bringing in a residency with Dr. Kelly to our clinic provides more help for our patients. We do have a waitlist. Thatll help with the urgency of patients that need to be seen sooner than others and we really need the support Dr. Kelly provides, Buggi said. Kolli said having another person on hand to assist will be a big benefit from his end as the clinic has seen an increase in traffic in recent years and, despite their best efforts, staffing to meet that need is fighting a workforce shortage that affects all industries at the moment. CCH, UNMC and Creighton, he said, are trying to bridge that with the best people they have, however, which is how they got in contact with Kelly. UNMC has several specialties and Dr. Kelly has trained in several, so he brings that expertise to this community and gives us the opportunity to partner with Creighton and UNMC, Kolli said. I think this is the best both have to offer to Columbus and the start of, I hope, a long and beneficial collaboration with all organizations. "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! It is possible that I am overstating the case a bit, but I think that South Indian food is having a moment. In Goa, the excellent Hosa is very much the restaurant of the moment. In New York, Semma has a Michelin star, has wowed the critics, and is packed out so solidly that it is a big deal to score a table. In Kolkata, the most difficult reservation is Avartana, the second avatar of the modern South Indian restaurant from Chennai. A third Avartana will open shortly in Mumbai. On the West Coast of the US, Srijith Gopinathan, who walked away from his Michelin stars at Campton Place, is the hottest Indian chef and continues to open restaurants that celebrate his unique Malayali-California cooking. In Singapore, Mano Thevar has two Michelin stars at his eponymous restaurant, which serves the food of Malaysias Tamil community. And back home in India, Regi Mathew, who runs Kerala restaurants in Chennai and Bengaluru, was recently crowned Indias number one chef. The Kochi chicken curry at Hosa in Goa. Goas Hosa serves modernised versions of classic South Indian food. All of this is far more surprising than we may realise. Yes, there have always been restaurants in South India that serve the local food. But the cuisine of the South only moved north when restaurateurs from Udupi in Karnataka began opening establishments in Mumbai in the late 1950s. The original intention was to feed the South Indian diaspora. Over time the restaurateurs realised that such snacks as dosas, idlis, and vadas appealed to people from all communities. The masala dosa, which became the symbol of this avatar of South Indian food, was a restaurant creation that found all-India fame in the late 1970s. In Singapore, Mano Thevars food celebrates the Tamil dishes he grew up eating in Malaysia. The second phase took many forms. Regional South Indian cuisine began to travel. Such restaurants as Nagarjuna, RR and Amaravathi took Andhra food to other states; though unfortunately, the expansion ignored most of North India. In Mumbai, the children of the Udupi restaurateurs who had led the original boom became more adventurous and created a craze for sea-food dishes from the south-west coast. Such restaurants as Trishna, Gajalee and Apoorva were part of this trend. Once again, it passed much of the North by; perhaps because it was difficult to get fresh seafood far away from the coasts. At Semma in New York, chef Vijaya Kumar found inspiration in the food he ate in his village, such as kaikari uttapam. All this took time to travel North. An early pioneer was Jayaram Banan, whose Sagar and Sagar Ratna chains introduced Punjabis to masala dosas. As the Sagar restaurants spread over North India, Banan opened Swagath, serving the sort of food that had made Trishna and Gajalee so popular in Mumbai: this time around, he introduced Punjabis to masala crab. Avartana offers modern South Indian dishes such as the cuttle fish with black garlic, coconut and cauliflower (top). Now, South Indian chefs have found the confidence needed to take the cuisine forward. In San Francisco, Srijith Gopinathan put caviar on an appam and took the cuisine further upmarket. Mano Thevars cuisine is South Indian diaspora food, but it is also different from anything you will find anywhere else. There have been more recent breakthroughs. Many South Indians found the Dakshin-Southern Spice style of food and presentation too Brahminical. At Semma in New York, chef Vijaya Kumar who grew up poor in a small village in Tamil Nadu, found inspiration in the food they ate in his village. They had very little money, so expensive ingredients were out of the question. They foraged for snails and wild vegetables and used heavy doses of masala to give their food a kick. Cuttle fish with black garlic, coconut and cauliflower at Avartana. Hosa is an experiment that has worked spectacularly well. The idea is Rohit Khattars. Because Khattar started Indian Accent, it is tempting to see this as the South Indian Accent (though the original Indian Accent had many South Indian flavours, anyway). But, as elegant as Hosa is, it appeals to a less well-heeled clientele. You can eat very well for 1,500, a sum that would not get you very far at Indian Accent. 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 Vir Sanghvi Why hide the papers? Why keep the conspiracy theories related to Netaji Subhas Boses death alive? And why deny India the truth about the death of one of its great freedom fighters? ...view detail Our understanding of COVID is constantly evolving, much as the virus is itself. For example, new evidence shows that anti viral drugs aiming to treat the disease may in fact be fueling the virus' evolution. Scientists said antiviral use increases the genetic diversity of the virus in the wild and provided more options for future evolution. (Also read: What is Disease X; can this potential threat be deadlier than Covid? Doctor explains) COVID-19 continues to evolve but scientists have called into question the prevelance of post-COVID syndromes(Manfred Segerer/IMAGO) Another area is long COVID. Some studies estimate the prevalence of post-COVID symptoms is 25-45%. However, scientists have cast doubt on these studies. An opinion piecein BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine claims these studies have been misleading and vastly overestimate the prevalence of long COVID. "Overly broad definitions", "methodological flaws", "striking absence of control groups": these are just some of the issues of long COVID research studies according to scientists writing in an influential medical journal. The US authors believe poorly conducted studies and lack of clarity around how to diagnoselong COVID has led "undue concern and anxiety" in the public. They claim that treatable conditions are commonly misdiagnosed as long COVID, which diverts attention and funds away from people who truly suffer from conditions not caused by COVID-19. "I think this publication is important because it gives food for thought. The first thesis put forward by the authors is that the frequency of long COVID is overestimated. I partially agree with that," said Andreas Stallmach, head of the long COVID Center, Jena University Hospital, Germany. The researchers call for clearer definitions and diagnostic criteria for long COVID, and the use of longitudinal studies with appropriate controls to better monitor the illness. Long COVID or post-COVID symptoms? One of the major issues the piece highlights is the lack of consistent terminology around long COVID and related post-COVID syndromes and symptoms. None of the definitions provided by health bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CD) requires a causal link between the COVID-19 virus and a long COVID diagnosis. The piece highlights several studies which failed to confirm prior COVID-19 infection in patients included in long COVID studies. "Many studies include a broad range of symptoms without any evidence of a causal link to SARS-CoV-2 infection," the authors write. "Over 200 symptoms are now associated with COVID-19. All are largely unspecific and without a causal connection to the disease," Peter Berlit, Secretary General, German Society for Neurology (DGN), told media outlets. According to Berlit, the only hallmark symptoms of COVID-19 are impaired sense of smell and taste. "There are also quite specific patterns of neurocognitive disorders that can last longer. But very few long-lasting symptoms can be attributed solely to COVID-19," he said. Studies lack rigor The authors also claim many studies lack control groups with people who didn't test positive for COVID-19, highlight a recent systemic review which identified control groups were only included in 11% of long COVID studies. "I agree with the shortcomings described in the BMJ analysis. For example, the initial lack of control groups, the lack of a clear definition of the disease. Such deficiencies can distort the risk of disease." said Clara Leman, an infectious disease specialist at Cologne University Hospital. Berlit added that inadequate control groups in many studies have certainly contributed to the disease risk being overestimated today. "Even in the opinion of many doctors, the number of long COVID patients is far too high," said Berlit. Long Covid not as prevalent as thought? The piece highlights several, rigorous, long COVID studies which the authors believe give an accurate, "more reassuring picture of long COVID prevalence. For example, the study would refute the WHO's claims that 36 million people in Europe are suffering from long COVID. For example, a UK study found that 12 common symptoms of long COVID were prevalent in 5% of people 12-16 weeks after a COVID-19 infection. However, the same symptoms were found in 3.4% of people who did not have a COVID-19 infection, showing only a 1.4% difference. These figures also show how relatively common symptoms are in the population at any given time, say the authors. The study calls for a new definition of long COVID which should include continuous symptoms after confirmed COVID-19 infection, and take into considering physical and mental health, which may contribute to an individual's post-COVID experience. "The fundamental problem is that there are currently no clear biomarkers or radiological findings that allow a clear diagnosis of long COVID," said Lehmann. Long COVID still a major health issue for some The fact remains that many people are still struggling with debilitating long COVID symptoms, with women less likely to recover from long COVID. While the authors strongly criticized the state of long COVID research, they hope their recommendations for research of long COVID will improve standards of medicine for those who do have long COVID. Berlit stated that he agrees, saying we need to know more about patients' history and social situation, as many previous physical and mental illnesses lead to an increased risk of long COVID. "I'm not talking about long COVID being an imaginary illness, but depending on your previous illness and your life situation, just dealing with the potentially serious infection can lead to long-lasting symptoms," said Berlit. Researchers have identified a number of risk factors, but are still trying to work out what exactly causes long COVID in some people, and not in others. Edited by: Andreas Illmer 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! China launched its first high-speed rail line that will travel across several bays and skim along the coast of the southeastern province of Fujian near the Taiwan Strait, state media reported on Thursday. China's first cross-sea bullet train line near Taiwan Strait to skim Fujian (REUTERS/Aly Song (CHINA)/File Photo) A bullet train departed from Fuzhou, the capital of east China's Fujian province Thursday morning, setting up the opening of the 277-km (172-mile) Fuzhou-Xiamen-Zhangzhou railway, Xinhua reported. It is China's first cross-sea, rapid line with bullet trains that will travel over bridges across three coastal bays and hit top speeds of 350 km per hour (218 mph), state media said, citing China State Railway Group Co Ltd, the country's railway operator. Travel time between Fuzhou and Xiamen, an economic hub and popular tourist destination, will be under an hour. China Railway Siyuan Survey and Design Group Co Ltd designed the railway project. By 2022, China had 42,000 km of operational high-speed railway, and the length of high-speed rail regularly operating at 350 km per hour neared 3,200 km as of June 2022. China recently announced details of its plan to turn Fujian into a zone for integrated development with Taiwan, which sits opposite the province. China is hoping the link will enhance investment opportunities and make travel easier. A Chinese government official said an integrated multidimensional transportation network has been built in Fujian that "will make it technically possible to construct a high-speed transport passage linking the province with Taiwan," according to state media. Separately, earlier this week China unveiled its first commercial suspended monorail line in Wuhan, the capital of Hubei province. The monorail, covering 10.5 km (6.5 miles), is fully automated and only requires human operation in an emergency, China Daily reported. 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! Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava has said that the proposed Ramayana Circuit will further boost the number of Indian tourists visiting Nepal. Ramayana Circuit to further increase Indian tourist flow to Nepal (File Photo by Twitter/IRCTCofficial) Addressing an event organized by Pokhara Tourism Council on the occasion of Tourism Day 2023 in Pokhara, Kaski, the Indian Ambassador said that tourism flow from India will further boost tourism in Nepal. Ambassador Srivastava said: During Nepali PM Prachandas visit to India, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that the Ramayana Circuit works as a connection between Nepal and India. Last year, a Ramayana Train also had come to Nepals Janakpur which ensures the flow of Indian tourists to Janakpur. We have also pinned high hopes that the railways which we have operated between Janakpur-Kurtha-Bijulpura, would further increase the footfall of tourists, the number of tourists coming to Pokhara is uncertain but this would certainly boost the tourism of Nepal. The Ramayana Circuit includes the major pilgrim sites in India and Nepal that are related to the era of Ramayana, such as Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, where a temple is being built for Lord Ram as well as Janakpur in Nepal, which is believed to be the birthplace of Sita, the consort of Lord Ram. The Ramayana Circuit is one of the 15 thematic circuits identified for development under the Swadesh Darshan scheme by the Indian government's Ministry of Tourism and the Nepal government has also come forward to take part in it. Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Nepal recently said that the India-Nepal development partnership has gathered further momentum. India-Nepal #DevelopmentPartnership gathers further momentum! Translating commitment made during PM @cmprachanda visit to India (June 2023) to strive for increasing quantum of electricity import to India to 10,000 MW in the next 10 years, the Indian Embassy in Nepal wrote on X formerly Twitter on Saturday. Additional 180 MW of electricity export to India approved. Nepal can now export 631 MW power to India, medium term and real-time markets for export of power available, besides day ahead market, addition of 132 kV Tanakpur-Mahendrangar transmission line for power export, the embassy wrote. The embassy said that further impetus has been provided to the India-Nepal development partnership since Nepal PM Prachandas visit to India in 2023. The embassy gave examples of the Kurtha-Bijalpura rail link operationalization to enhance people-to-people connectivity and the inauguration and handing over of community development projects built by Indian grant. 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! Apple unveiled its latest lineup of iPhones on September 12 during its Wonderlust event. The sales of iPhone 15 kickstarted in India and worldwide on September 22. However, several users have complained that their smartphones are now getting overheated. The Apple iPhone 15 series is displayed for sale at The Grove Apple retail store on release day in Los Angeles, California,(AFP) According to a Bloomberg report, customers have taken to social media platforms like Reddit and X to complain about the iPhones getting hot too much'. Some users have claimed that the iPhone heats up when it is plugged in to charge. The company's technical support staffers have been fielding calls about the issue as well. Theyve referred customers to an old support article on how to handle an iPhone that feels too hot or cold. According to the notice, overheating could occur when using intensive apps, charging or setting up a new device for the first time. Several people have posted videos of them checking the phones temperature with a thermometer. iPhone 15 Pro Max gets really hot easily, according to one post. Im just browsing social media, and its burning up. Another said that the device got hot enough to be felt through a carrying case. One user complained that the iPhone 15 Pro Max got hot enough to switch off during a call and then took a few minutes to come back on. Apples devices do occasionally shut themselves off when they overheat or are exposed to the sun for too long. There are speculations of the Apple iPhone 15 being overheated due to TSMCs advanced 3nm node. However, Ming-Chi Kuo, a popular Taiwan-based technology expert differs on it. Kuo took to platform Medium on the issue of Apple iPhones getting oveheated. He wrote,"The primary cause is more likely the compromises made in the thermal system design to achieve a lighter weight, such as the reduced heat dissipation area and the use of a titanium frame, which negatively impacts thermal efficiency". Its expected that Apple will address this through software updates, but improvements may be limited unless Apple lowers processor performance. If Apple does not properly address this issue, it could negatively impact shipments over the product life cycle of the iPhone 15 Pro series, Kuo 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 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 Wanting to buy a new fridge but are on a tight budget? Well, thats okay and theres no need to fret. These days you can find the best fridge under 40,000 quite easily. While the multitude of options may prove to be confusing and that's why we have curated this buying guide for our readers. If anyone told you you won't be able to enjoy the latest features and advanced technologies in a refrigerator under 40,000, then it couldn't have been more wrong. You don't need to compromise on quality when on a budget. Our selections below not only preserve your food for long, keep your beverages chilled and increase shelf life of veggies, but also come with a decent energy saving rating. Their design is also such that you will be happy to introduce them to your kitchen. All the options promise optimum cooling capabilities and come with user-friendly technologies like frost-free, AI-enabled inverter technology, Nano shield and more. They also come with inverter compressors that make them energy efficient. This translates to saving on electricity bills. Offering a blend of both style and functionality, our top selections offer great value for money. They will make your life easy and take our word on it. If you are interested in buying one, scroll down to take a look at a detailed analysis of the best fridge under 40,000. They look stylish in appearance and come in stunning colour options. It wouldn't be wrong to say that they will amp up your kitchen space. Whirlpool 259 L 3 Star Intellifresh Inverter Frost Free Double Door Refrigerator (IF INV ELT DF305 GERMAN STEEL(3S)-TL, Grey, 2023 Model) Best fridge under 40,000 are affordable and user-friendly.(Pexels) This Whirlpool refrigerator strikes the perfect balance between efficient cooling and energy savings. With its 259L capacity and 3-star energy efficiency rating, it's an excellent choice for small to medium-sized families. The Intellifresh Inverter technology ensures precise and consistent cooling while minimizing power consumption. The frost-free design eliminates the need for manual defrosting, making maintenance hassle-free. Its elegant German Steel finish adds a touch of sophistication to your kitchen. Plus, the 2023 model comes with all the latest features for modern convenience. Specifications of Whirlpool IF INV ELT DF305 Capacity: 259 liters Energy Efficiency: 3-star rating Defrost System: Frost-free Inverter Technology: Yes (Intellifresh) Finish: German Steel Model Year: 2023 Color: Grey B0C9SZQ9PX Panasonic 280 L Double Door 3 Star AI Enabled Inverter Technology Frost Free Refrigerator (NR-TH292CPKN, Diamond Black, Jumbo Fresh Vegetable Basket,2023 Model, Net Capacity 256L) Panasonic's NR-TH292CPKN is a feature-packed refrigerator designed to meet your every need. With a 280L capacity and a 3-star energy efficiency rating, it provides ample storage space while keeping energy consumption in check. The AI-Enabled Inverter Technology ensures optimal cooling while adapting to your usage patterns. The Diamond Black finish adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen, and the jumbo fresh vegetable basket keeps your produce crisp and fresh for longer. Specifications of Panasonic NR-TH292CPKN: Capacity: 280 liters Energy Efficiency: 3-star rating Defrost System: Frost-free Inverter Technology: Yes (AI-Enabled) Finish: Diamond Black Model Year: 2023 Color: Jumbo Fresh Vegetable Basket B0BSLLL187 Also read: Best fridge in India 2023 to keep veggies fresh, beverages cool: September guide Godrej 223 L 2 Star Nano Shield Technology, Inverter Frost Free Double Door Refrigerator(2023 Model, RF EON 244B RI ST GL, Steel Glow) Godrej's RF EON 244B RI ST GL refrigerator combines cutting-edge technology with a sleek Steel Glow finish. With a capacity of 223L and a 2-star energy efficiency rating, it's a great choice for smaller families. The Nano Shield Technology ensures the refrigerator's durability, while the inverter technology provides efficient and consistent cooling. The frost-free design saves you from the hassle of manual defrosting. This 2023 model offers both style and functionality for your kitchen. Specifications of Godrej RF EON 244B RI ST GL Capacity: 223 liters Energy Efficiency: 2-star rating Defrost System: Frost-free Inverter Technology: Yes Finish: Steel Glow Model Year: 2023 Color: Steel Glow B0BXSRCPJ1 Haier 237 L 2 Star Frost Free Double Door Bottom Mount Refrigerator (2023 Model, HEB-242GS-P, Moon Silver,Convertible) Haier's HEB-242GS-P is a versatile refrigerator with a 237L capacity and a 2-star energy efficiency rating. Its bottom-mount design provides easy access to fresh food, reducing the need to bend frequently. The frost-free technology prevents ice buildup, ensuring hassle-free maintenance. This 2023 model offers convertible features, allowing you to customize its usage based on your needs. The Moon Silver finish adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen. Specifications of Haier HEB-242GS-P Capacity: 237 liters Energy Efficiency: 2-star rating Defrost System: Frost-free Inverter Technology: Not specified Finish: Moon Silver Model Year: 2023 Color: Moon Silver B0BTHLG5J2 LG 242 L 3 Star Smart Inverter Frost-Free Double Door Refrigerator (GL-I292RPZX, Shiny Steel, Door Cooling+, Gross Volume- 260 L) LG's GL-I292RPZX refrigerator is a smart and efficient cooling solution for your home. With a capacity of 242L and a 3-star energy efficiency rating, it offers ample storage space while conserving energy. The Smart Inverter ensures precise cooling and efficient operation. The Door Cooling+ feature maintains uniform temperatures throughout the refrigerator, keeping your food fresh for longer. The Shiny Steel finish adds a touch of modernity to your kitchen. Specifications of LG GL-I292RPZX Capacity: 242 liters Energy Efficiency: 3-star rating Defrost System: Frost-free Inverter Technology: Yes (Smart Inverter) Finish: Shiny Steel Gross Volume: 260 liters Model Year: Not specified B08X72GY5Q Samsung 236 L 2 Star Digital Inverter with Display Frost Free Double Door Refrigerator (RT28C3452S8/HL, Silver, Elegant Inox, 2023 Model) Samsung's RT28C3452S8/HL refrigerator combines style and innovation. With a 236L capacity and a 2-star energy efficiency rating, it's suitable for smaller households. The Digital Inverter compressor ensures efficient cooling and durability, while the external display adds convenience to temperature control. The frost-free design eliminates the need for manual defrosting, making maintenance hassle-free. The Elegant Inox finish complements modern kitchen aesthetics. Specifications of Samsung RT28C3452S8/HL Capacity: 236 liters Energy Efficiency: 2-star rating Defrost System: Frost-free Inverter Technology: Yes (Digital Inverter) Finish: Elegant Inox Model Year: 2023 Color: Silver B0BR3Z3ZXM Panasonic 280 L Double Door 3 Star AI Enabled Inverter Technology Frost Free Refrigerator (NR-TH292CVHN, Electric Grey, Jumbo Fresh Vegetable Basket, 2023 Model, Net Capacity 256L) Panasonic's NR-TH292CVHN refrigerator offers generous storage capacity with its 280L size and 3-star energy efficiency rating. The AI-Enabled Inverter Technology adapts to your usage patterns, optimizing energy consumption. The Electric Grey finish adds a touch of sophistication to your kitchen. Plus, the jumbo fresh vegetable basket ensures your produce stays fresh longer, reducing food waste. Specifications of Panasonic NR-TH292CVHN Capacity: 280 liters Energy Efficiency: 3-star rating Defrost System: Frost-free Inverter Technology: Yes (AI-Enabled) Finish: Electric Grey Model Year: 2023 Color: Jumbo Fresh Vegetable Basket B0BSLLGNZC Also read: Top 5 refrigerator brands in India 2023: Great cooling, Wi-Fi monitored & more Godrej 272 L 3 Star Convertible Technology, 30 days Farms Freshness Inverter Frost Free Double Door Refrigerator (2023 Model, RF EON 294C RCIT FS ST, Fossil Steel) Godrej's RF EON 294C RCIT FS ST refrigerator offers a combination of style and functionality. With a 272L capacity and a 3-star energy efficiency rating, it's ideal for families. The Convertible Technology allows you to customize the fridge and freezer compartments based on your needs. The 30 days Farms Freshness feature keeps your fruits and vegetables crisp for longer. The Fossil Steel finish adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen. Specifications of Godrej RF EON 294C RCIT FS ST Capacity: 272 liters Energy Efficiency: 3-star rating Defrost System: Frost-free Inverter Technology: Yes Finish: Fossil Steel Model Year: 2023 Color: Fossil Steel B0BVGBMT1Z Lloyd 276 L 2 Star Inverter Frost Free Double Door Refrigerator (GLFF282AMNT1PB, Metallic Navy) Lloyd's GLFF282AMNT1PB refrigerator offers efficient cooling and ample storage space with a 276L capacity and a 2-star energy efficiency rating. The Inverter Technology ensures consistent cooling and energy savings. The Metallic Navy finish adds a touch of sophistication to your kitchen, and the frost-free design simplifies maintenance. Specifications of Lloyd GLFF282AMNT1PB Capacity: 276 liters Energy Efficiency: 2-star rating Defrost System: Frost-free Inverter Technology: Yes Finish: Metallic Navy Model Year: Not specified Color: Metallic Navy B0B2T75DRG Havells-Newly Launched Lloyd Refrigrator Double Door 283L 3Star Inverter Technology with Toughened Glass Metallic Silver Havells-Newly Launched Lloyd Refrigerator offers a spacious 283L capacity with a 3-star energy efficiency rating. Its Inverter Technology ensures efficient cooling while saving on energy consumption. The Toughened Glass finish adds durability and elegance to your kitchen. This refrigerator combines reliability and style to meet your cooling needs. Specifications of Havells-Newly Launched Lloyd Refrigerator: Capacity: 283 liters Energy Efficiency: 3-star rating Defrost System: Not specified Inverter Technology: Yes Finish: Toughened Glass Model Year: Not specified Color: Metallic Silver B0B97NP7MR Three best features of each product Product Name and Model Feature 1 Feature 2 Feature 3 Whirlpool IF INV ELT DF305 Intellifresh Inverter for efficient cooling Frost-free technology 3-star energy efficiency rating Panasonic NR-TH292CPKN AI-Enabled Inverter Technology Jumbo Fresh Vegetable Basket 3-star energy efficiency rating Godrej RF EON 244B RI ST GL Nano Shield Technology for durability Inverter technology 2-star energy efficiency rating Haier HEB-242GS-P Bottom Mount design for easy access Frost-free technology 2-star energy efficiency rating LG GL-I292RPZX Smart Inverter for consistent cooling Door Cooling+ for uniform cooling 3-star energy efficiency rating Samsung RT28C3452S8/HL Digital Inverter with Display Frost-free technology 2-star energy efficiency rating Panasonic NR-TH292CVHN AI-Enabled Inverter Technology Jumbo Fresh Vegetable Basket 3-star energy efficiency rating Godrej RF EON 294C RCIT FS ST Convertible Technology for flexibility 30 days Farms Freshness 3-star energy efficiency rating Lloyd GLFF282AMNT1PB Inverter technology for efficient cooling Metallic Navy color for aesthetics 2-star energy efficiency rating Havells Lloyd Refrigrator 283L Inverter Technology with Toughened Glass 3-star energy efficiency rating Spacious 283-liter capacity Pros and cons of each product Product Name and Model Pros Cons Whirlpool IF INV ELT DF305 - Intellifresh Inverter for efficient cooling, - Frost-free technology, - German Steel finish for durability - 3-star energy efficiency may not be the highest, - Limited color options Panasonic NR-TH292CPKN - AI-Enabled Inverter Technology for smart cooling, - Jumbo Fresh Vegetable Basket for storage, - 280L Net Capacity - 3-star energy efficiency rating, - Limited color options Godrej RF EON 244B RI ST GL - Nano Shield Technology for durability, - Inverter technology for consistent cooling, - Stylish Steel Glow finish - 2-star energy efficiency rating, - Limited capacity of 223L Haier HEB-242GS-P - Bottom Mount design for easy access, - Frost-free technology, - Convertible feature for flexibility - 2-star energy efficiency rating, - Smaller capacity of 237L LG GL-I292RPZX - Smart Inverter for consistent cooling, - Door Cooling+ for uniform cooling, - Gross Volume of 260L - 3-star energy efficiency rating, - Limited color options Samsung RT28C3452S8/HL - Digital Inverter with Display for precise cooling, - Frost-free technology, - Elegant Inox finish - 2-star energy efficiency rating, - Display may not be essential for all Panasonic NR-TH292CVHN - AI-Enabled Inverter Technology for smart cooling, - Jumbo Fresh Vegetable Basket for storage, - 280L Net Capacity - 3-star energy efficiency rating, - Limited color options Godrej RF EON 294C RCIT FS ST - Convertible Technology for flexibility, - 30 days Farms Freshness, - Stylish Fossil Steel finish - 3-star energy efficiency rating, - May not have the highest capacity Lloyd GLFF282AMNT1PB - Inverter technology for energy savings, - Frost-free design, - Metallic Navy finish - 2-star energy efficiency rating, - Limited color options Havells Lloyd Refrigerator - 3-Star Inverter Technology, - Toughened Glass shelves, - 283L capacity - Limited information available, - May not have advanced features Best value for money The Panasonic 280 L Double Door Refrigerator stands out as the best value for money option in this category. With its generous storage capacity, energy-efficient inverter technology, and jumbo fresh vegetable basket, it offers an excellent combination of features at an affordable price point. This refrigerator not only keeps your food fresh for longer but also helps you save on electricity bills. Its sleek design and advanced features make it an ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for a reliable and cost-effective refrigerator. Best overall product The Whirlpool 259 L 3 Star Intellifresh Inverter Frost Free Double Door Refrigerator takes the crown as the best overall product in the category. Its cutting-edge inverter technology ensures efficient cooling, while the intelligently designed storage compartments maximize space utilization. With features like frost-free operation and a large vegetable crisper, it offers convenience and performance. The 3-star energy rating makes it an environmentally friendly choice as well. If you're seeking a refrigerator that excels in every aspect, this Whirlpool model is the top pick. How to find the best refrigerator under 40,000? When searching for the ideal refrigerator, consider your specific needs. Look for features such as inverter technology for energy efficiency, ample storage capacity, and smart organization of compartments. Ensure it suits the available space in your kitchen and has the desired finish. Pay attention to energy ratings to save on electricity costs. Reading user reviews can provide insights into real-world performance. Ultimately, the best refrigerator is one that aligns with your requirements, offers energy savings, and fits your budget. At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority. 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! PC maker HP has joined hands with Google to manufacture Chromebooks in India from October 2, the company said on Thursday. Chromebooks come at a lower price compared to notebooks with proprietary operating system(Representational image) The Chromebook devices will be manufactured at the Flex Facility near Chennai, where HP has been producing a range of laptops and desktops since August 2020, it said in a statement. "Manufacturing Chromebook laptops in India will allow Indian students to get easy access to affordable PCs. By further expanding our manufacturing operations, we continue to support the Make in India initiative of the government," HP India, Senior Director - Personal Systems, Vickram Bedi said. ALSO READ: HP Chromebook 15.6 proves that a world beyond Windows, exists successfully HP is one of the applicants under the government's 17,000 crore production linked incentive scheme for IT hardware. "The local production of Chromebooks with HP marks an important step in our efforts to continue supporting the digital transformation of education in India," Google, Head of Education - South Asia, Bani Dhawan said. Chromebooks come at a lower price compared to notebooks with proprietary operating system. According to the statement, Chromebooks, which come with Google's ChromeOS, are the leading devices in K-12 education, helping over 50 million students and teachers across the world. Joint vision to support digital education ecosystem in India "This partnership will propel a joint vision to support the digital education ecosystem in India and help more students enhance their learning by providing affordable, safe, and high-quality computing devices to education authorities, schools, and institutions," the statement said. The move will expands HP's India-made PC portfolio. HP has been expanding its manufacturing operations in India since 2020 and from December 2021, it started manufacturing a wide range of laptops in India, including HP EliteBooks, HP ProBooks, and HP G8 series notebooks. HP also expanded its portfolio of locally-manufactured commercial desktops by adding various models of desktop mini towers (MT), mini desktops (DM), small form factor (SFF) desktops, and a range of All-in-One PCs. 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! Meta Platforms Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg on Wednesday rolled out new AI products for consumers, including bots that create photo-realistic images and smart glasses that answer questions, as well as an updated virtual-reality headset. Mark Zuckerberg, chief executive officer of Meta Platforms Inc., during the Meta Connect event in Menlo Park, California, US, on Wednesday(Bloomberg) Zuckerberg described the products as bringing together virtual and real worlds, and underscored that part of what Meta offered was low cost or free AI that could integrate into daily routine. Meta's Quest is the bestseller in the nascent VR space and the company's executives described it as the best value in the industry, a nod to the impending release of a much more expensive headset from Apple. Speaking from a central courtyard on Meta's sprawling Silicon Valley campus, Zuckerberg said a new generation of Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses would start shipping on Oct. 17, priced at $299. The device will incorporate a new Meta AI assistant and be capable of livestreaming broadcasts of what a user is seeing directly to Facebook and Instagram, an advancement over the previous generation's ability to snap photos. Zuckerberg spoke at the Meta Connect conference, the social media company's biggest event of the year as well as its first in-person conference since the start of the pandemic. He also said the latest Quest mixed-reality headset would start shipping on Oct. 10 and introduced the company's first consumer-facing generative AI products. The latter includes a chatbot called Meta AI that can generate both text responses and photo-realistic images. "Sometimes we innovate by releasing something that's never been seen before," Zuckerberg said. "But sometimes we innovate by taking something that is awesome, but super expensive, and making it so it can be affordable for everyone or even free." Meta AI will be built in to the smart glasses as an assistant, starting with a beta rollout in the United States. A software update planned for next year will give the assistant the ability to identify places and objects that people are seeing, as well as to perform language translation. Meta made Meta AI using a custom model based on the powerful Llama 2 large language model that the company released for public commercial use in July. The chatbot will have access to real-time information via a partnership with Microsoft's Bing search engine, Zuckerberg said. In an interview with Reuters, Meta Global Affairs President Nick Clegg said the company had taken steps to filter private details from the data used to train the model and also imposed restrictions on what the tool could generate, like a ban on the creation of realistic images of public figures. "We've tried to exclude datasets that have a heavy preponderance of personal information," Clegg said, citing LinkedIn as an example of a website whose content was deliberately not used. Custom AI bots Meta also announced that it was building a platform that developers and ordinary people alike may use to create custom AI bots of their own, which will have profiles on Instagram and Facebook and eventually appear as avatars in the metaverse. To demonstrate the tool's capabilities, Meta created a set of 28 chatbots with different personalities styled in the voices of celebrities like Charli D'Amelio, Snoop Dogg and Tom Brady, according to a company blog post. The features appeared to be aimed at sprucing up existing apps and devices rather than developing new ad surfaces or other sources of revenue. "I don't see monetization of AI products happening for Meta for quite some time and I think it will end up being more indirect. They seem much more interested in helping develop a platform that other developers will use," said Bob O'Donnell, chief analyst at TECHnalysis Research. Zuckerberg also said on Wednesday that Xbox cloud gaming is coming to Quest in December. Meta first announced the Quest 3 headset over the summer, around the time Apple debuted its Vision Pro headset, a high-end product with a price of $3,500. Starting at $500, the Quest 3 boasts the same mixed-reality technology that premiered in Meta's more expensive Quest Pro device launched last year, which shows wearers a video feed of the real world around them. The day's announcements reflect how Zuckerberg plans to navigate the shift this year of investor fervor to artificial intelligence from augmented and virtual reality technologies. Stakes for the event were high as investors last year slammed the parent company of Facebook and Instagram for spending extensively on the metaverse, prompting Zuckerberg to lay off tens of thousands of staff to continue funding his vision. Developers were watching to assess what apps they might create for Meta's latest hardware devices. Investors, meanwhile, looked for signs of whether a gamble that has lost the company more than $40 billion since 2021 may pay off. 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! Its quite a task to place 32 pieces on a chessboard with precision, but a girl from Malaysia did this blindfolded and that too in record time. Punithamalar Rajashekar, 10, successfully arranged a chessboard blindfolded in just 45.72 seconds. This earned her a Guinness World Record title for the fastest time to arrange a chess set blindfolded. Punithamalar Rajashekar placing pieces on chessboard. (YouTube/GWR KIDS) Rajashekar was inspired to attempt this world record after watching a documentary about remarkable human achievements, reported Guinness World Records. Seeing people push their limits and accomplish incredible feats really inspired me, she told Guinness World Records. [] I was particularly drawn to the idea of setting a personal goal and pushing myself beyond my limits, and attempting a world record seemed like the perfect way to do that, she added. With the support of her father, she started preparing four months before the actual attempt. Her family and teachers kept her motivated throughout this journey. After successfully making it to the Guinness World Records, Rajashekar shared that it was a life-changing experience for her and expressed hope that her achievement would inspire others. Guinness World Records shared a video of her world record on their YouTube channel with the caption, Chess genius arranges chess set BLINDFOLDED! The video shows a woman putting a blindfold on Rajashekar amid thunderous applause from the audience. On the mark of ready, set and go; she started arranging pieces on the chessboard. Rajashekar placed all the black pieces first precisely, followed by the white ones. Towards the end, she raises her hands and says, Stop. Watch Rajashekar arranging a chessboard blindfolded below: Apart from this, the ten-year-old has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Asias Outstanding Child Award for the 2022-2023 year. She has also demonstrated her abilities in various contests, including Malaysias Kids Got Talent. 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 Brazilian Military, Police, Civil Servants Face Crypto Mining Ban Source: Angelov/Adobe The Brazilian state of Santa Catarina has barred public officials, including police and military officers, from mining crypto. In an updated set of rules for public sector workers, the state wrote that public officials, including members of the armed forces and civil servants, should refrain from mining crypto when in working environments. This move will make it a punishable offense to use Santa Catarina government WiFi networks and intranet connections to mine crypto. The rules were compiled by the states police force, and note that networks will be monitored to ensure employees comply with the new rule. Brazilian Police in Crackdown on Illegal Public Sector Crypto Mining Brazilian police have thus far been almost powerless to stop public sector employees using company equipment to mine crypto, with no laws in place to halt the practice. Officers train at a Santa Catarina police facility. (Source: Policia Civil do Estado de Santa Catarina/Facebook) In 2021, a Marilia Municipal Water and Sewage Department employee was found running several mining programs on his work computer, using up high levels of CPU power. The department brought a case against the man. But the state-run firm was only able to suspend the employee, rather than remove him from his post. With their new powers, however, Santa Catarina officers will be able to prosecute instances of illegal crypto mining at work. There has been a rise in the number of international instances of public and private sector officials stealing company power to mine crypto in recent years. Last year, South Korean police arrested a major company executive who reportedly mined USD 30,000 worth of Ethereum (ETH) by connecting mining rigs to a company facility. He reportedly began mining at the facility in 2019 and used USD 3,500 worth of electricity to power the machines. The rigs ran 24/7 and reportedly turned the facility into a 40C furnace. The year before, a civil servant in Seouls biggest opera house was discovered mining ETH using the city-run institutions power. The man successfully connected his equipment in a little-used basement room underneath the centers Calligraphic Art Museum. Inspectors found two ETH mining rigs fitted with sophisticated graphics cards connected to the centers power outlets. On September 27, Bengaluru's tech corridor, Outer Ring Road, faced a massive traffic jam, leaving hundreds of people stuck for hours. The congestion is said to be caused as residents were heading out of the city for the long weekend ahead of Eid-e-Milad today, a state-wide bandh on Friday, and Gandhi Jayanti on Monday. All this, coupled with Trevor Noah's show in the city, plus the rain, is said to be the major cause of the traffic. Vehicles stranded in a massive traffic congestion in Outer Ring Road corridor in Bengaluru on Wednesday. (Mahadevapura Task Force) As people were stuck for endless hours, many took to X to share their thoughts on this massive jam. (Also Read: Bengaluru traffic: Man claims children came back from school at 9 pm) Here's what people are saying about the Bengaluru traffic jam: A few individuals stated the problems that residents face in Bengaluru. Another X user shared a few pictures of the traffic jam. A third person shared this meme. (Also Read: Trevor Noah's cancelled shows in Bengaluru disappoint fans, BookMyShow apologises) Here's how a few others reacted. As Eid-e-Milad is being celebrated today, September 28, Bengaluru Traffic Police issued an advisory to have better control over the traffic. They wrote, In view of Eid-e-Milad procession in the limits of Ulsoorgate Traffic Police Station, on 28.09.2023 from 3.00 pm to 9.00 pm, a large number of people are expected to gather at YMCA ground, Nrupathunga road. In order to ensure the free flow of traffic, the following traffic arrangements have been made. The following roads need to be avoided by road users, and alternative routes have been suggested. 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 Google turned a year older on September 27. This year, the tech giant celebrated its 25th birthday. To mark the occasion, the company shared a playful doodle incorporating the number 25 into its iconic logo on the homepage of its search engine. Now, its CEO Sundar Pichai took to Instagram to offer a sneak peek into the celebrations surrounding Googles 25th birthday. This is how Google employees celebrated the company's silver jubilee. (Instagram/@sundarpichai) Its not a birthday without a birthday party - and birthday cupcakes! Great to see Googlers all around the world getting together to celebrate our 25th birthday, wrote Sundar Pichai while sharing a few pictures on Instagram. The pictures are from Googles offices around the world. The first picture shows Pichai addressing employees on the companys silver jubilee. Another shows employees posing with a scrumptious three-layer cake. Other pictures in the slide show how employees at different offices marked the day. A picture shows cupcakes kept inside the company with 25 or that days Google Doodle on them. One picture even shows people writing birthday wishes on a huge poster. The last picture in the slide shows a cute dog posing with a cupcake-shaped stuffed toy and treats. Take a look at the pictures shared on Instagram by Sundar Pichai: The pictures were shared a few hours ago. More than 1.3 lakh people have since liked them, and the numbers are still increasing. Many even took to the comments section of the post to share their thoughts. Heres how people reacted to these photos: Thanks Google for all the answers, happy 25th birthday, posted an individual. Another added, Silver Jubilee for @google. Thanks for providing the best web experience, expressed a third. A fourth wrote, Happy silver Jubilee to #google. Thank you for always being there for us! I hope someday I can give back what I owe! remarked a fifth. 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 As many as 90 per cent of beggars arrested in foreign countries belong to Pakistan, reported The Dawn. The Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis was informed on Wednesday that a large number of beggars from Pakistan were moving abroad, which has further spurred "human trafficking". (AFP/File) The Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis was informed on Wednesday that a large number of beggars from Pakistan were moving abroad, which has further spurred "human trafficking". Overseas Ministry Secretary Zulfikar Haider disclosed this during a discussion in the Senate panel on the issue of skilled and unskilled labour leaving the country. Haider told the committee that a staggering 90 per cent of beggars arrested in foreign countries were of Pakistani origin, Dawn reported. He further said that many beggars exploited pilgrim visas to travel to Saudi Arabia, Iran and Iraq. Adding to this, he noted that a significant number of pickpockets were arrested at holy sites and were identified to be Pakistani nationals. Meanwhile, Haider said that Japan has now emerged as a new destination of such visitors, according to Dawn. Moreover, he emphasized Pakistan's historical role in exporting skilled labour and expressed optimism that the country's foreign remittances would increase when professionals went abroad. He further said that Saudi Arabia now preferred skilled labour over untrained individuals, according to Dawn. Hasan also noted that as many as 50,000 engineers in Pakistan were unemployed. "India has reached the moon, while we stumble every day, the senator added. He also informed that that approximately three million people were in Saudi Arabia, 1.5 million Pakistanis were in the UAE, while 0.2 million were in Qatar. Chris Christie, former New Jersey governor attended the second Republican debate and is now famous on social media for all the wrong reasons. Chris Christie, former governor of New Jersey and 2024 Republican presidential candidate, during the Republican presidential debate.(Bloomberg) While many issues including economy, energy, and independence from China, were taken upon in the debate, the Republican party candidate took a direct jab at the former American president Donald Trump for missing out on the discussion. The 61-year-old politician went as far as comparing Donald Trump to Donald Duck. I want to look at a camera right now. Let me tell you, Donald, I know youre watching. You cant help yourself. I know youre watching, he began. If you keep doing that, no one up heres gonna call you Donald Trump anymore. Youre gonna be Donald Duck, jabbed Christie. Youre not here tonight not because of polls, and not because of your indictments. Youre not here tonight, because youre afraid of being on the stage and defending your record. Youre ducking these things, he continued. Social Media Reactions The move of naming Donald Trump as Donald Duck by Chris has not been appreciated by the citizens online as they took to various social media platforms to support and thrash him. OH MY GOD WHAT A FLAMETHROWER FROM CHRIS CHRISTIE BOOOM , wrote a user on X. I can't believe it. Chris Christie just ended Trump's campaign. WOW, wrote another user appreciating Chris's remarks on Donald. Other took to setting the record straight for the hopeful candidate, writing: "We love Donald Trump! Christie just called him Donald Duck? F Christie!!!" No one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore were going to call you Donald the champion. QEPD :Chris Christie with the lamest joke in debate history.. From now on we will call you pig ," wrote another X user. Trump V/S Christie Donald Trump himself has had a history of naming his contenders with trivial names such as Meatball Ron, DeSanctimonous, and Crooked Joe. In the past, Donald has called Chris a slob. The account of his campaign on X (Formerly Twitter) posted an attacking image of his one-time ally taking a jab at his weight. Now, it seems Christie has decided to give it back to the former President. His account then replied to the shocking insult with a gif of Donald Duck and tagging the former president in the post. As for Donald missing the second Republican debate, the Republican candidate credited his ginormous lead in the polls as a reason for his absence in the discussion. In the latest RealClearPolitics aggregate Donald neared crushing his corrival Ron DeSantis by 42.2%. The second Republican debate was held on September 28, 2023, and was aired at 9 p.m. E.T. on Fox Business. The second Republican debate of the 2024 election cycle has kicked off at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, California. As many as seven candidates are participating North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, former Vice President Mike Pence, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy and Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina. Vivek Ramaswamy is being trolled for his hairstyle during the GOP debate (@VivekGRamaswamy/X) Vivek and Tim have been leading thegroup in speaking times, followed by Chris. A few minutes into the debate, Vivek said that he believes the real divide is not within the Republican Party, but between Americans in the country and in the Democratic Party. 'Are there no heights Vivek Ramaswamy's hair won't reach?' Vivek is now trending on X, but not just because of his remarks. Netizens were quick to notice and troll him over his hairstyle. Do you approve of Vivek Ramaswamy's hair being this high for the GOP debates? Should the Debate committee make a rule that limits the height of hair during the debates? It's kinda distracting. Because of the Senate Dress code, maybe we should have debate hair-codes that limit the heigh of hair to 3 feet, one user wrote on X. Is Viveks hair going to get taller with every debate? another jokes. One user said, Seriously, who is styling him? What kind of hair style is that? Are they just messing with him like Desantis' people do? Maybe it's the camera angle but Vivek Ramaswamy looks like his hair is in a bouffant, one user joked, while another wrote, If you close your eyes tonight when Vivek Ramaswamy is speaking, you hear Max Headroom. If you then open your eyes and look at his hair, you see Max Headroom, too. Me thinks Meghan McCains hair stylist found a new victim, said one user. Are there no heights Vivek Ramaswamy's hair won't reach? said a user. Vivek Ramaswamy calls for the end ofbirthright citizenship for the kids of illegal immigrants Vivek has notably also called for the end of birthright citizenship for children who were born in the US, with parents who entered the country illegally. I favour ending birthright citizenship for the kids of illegal immigrants in this country, he said. Now, the left will howl about the Constitution and the 14th Amendment. The difference between me and them is I've actually read the 14th Amendment, Vivek added. What it says is that all persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the laws and jurisdiction thereof are citizens. So nobody believes that the kid of a Mexican diplomat in this country enjoys birthright citizenship. Vivek Ramaswamy callsgender dysphoria a mental health disorder Vivek also said thatgender dysphoria should be treated as a mental health disorder. More than 50% of kids with gender dysphoria have considered suicide. And yet politicians reject a law that would require schools to inform parents if their kids change their gender identity at school, he captioned a video of himself talking on the issue. Parents have a right to know about their kids: that shouldnt be controversial. Ban genital mutilation & puberty blockers before age 18. Treat gender dysphoria as a mental health disorder. Time to empower parents again, he added. Chinese hackers who breached Microsoft's email platform this year managed to steal tens of thousands of emails from US State Department accounts, a Senate staffer told Reuters on Wednesday. The staffer, who attended a briefing by State Department IT officials, said the officials told lawmakers that 60,000 emails were stolen from 10 State Department accounts. Nine of those victims were working on East Asia and the Pacific and one worked on Europe, according to the briefing details shared via email by the staffer, who declined to be named. Hacker using laptop. Hacking the Internet.(Getty Images/ Representational photo) The staffer works for Senator Eric Schmitt. US officials and Microsoft said in July that Chinese state-linked hackers since May had accessed email accounts at around 25 organizations, including the U.S. Commerce and State Departments. The extent of the compromise remains unclear. US allegations that China was behind the breach have strained an already tense relationship between the countries, as Beijing has denied the charges. The State Department individuals whose accounts were compromised mostly focused on Indo-Pacific diplomacy efforts, and the hackers also obtained a list containing all of the department's emails, according to the Wednesday briefing. The sweeping hack has refocused attention on Microsoft's outsize role in providing IT services to the US government. The State Department has begun moving to "hybrid" environments with multiple vendor companies and improved uptake of multi-factor authentication, as part of measures to protect its systems, according to the officials at the briefing. The hackers compromised a Microsoft engineer's device, which allowed them to breach the State Department's email accounts, according to the briefing. Microsoft earlier this month said that a hack of senior officials at the US State and Commerce Departments stemmed from the compromise of a Microsoft engineer's corporate account. "We need to harden our defenses against these types of cyberattacks and intrusions," Schmitt said in a statement shared by the staffer in an email to Reuters following the briefing. "We need to take a hard look at the federal government's reliance on a single vendor as a potential weak point," he said. A Microsoft spokesman did not have an immediate comment on the Senate briefing. The company, which has faced criticism over its security practices since the breaches, has said that the hacking group behind them - dubbed Storm-0558 - had broken into webmail accounts running on the firm's Outlook service. The State Department did not immediately return a message seeking comment on Wednesday, and Schmitt wasn't available for an interview. Three people were killed overnight in separate incidents in Sweden as deadly violence linked to a feud between criminal gangs escalated. A police officer stands on the site of a powerful explosion that occurred early Thursday morning Sept. 28, 2023, in a housing area in Storvreta outside Uppsala, Sweden. (AP) Late Wednesday, an 18-year-old man was shot dead in a Stockholm suburb. Hours later, a man was killed and another was wounded in a shooting in Jordbro, south of the Swedish capital. Early Thursday a woman in her 20s died in an explosion in Uppsala, west of Stockholm. The blast, which damaged five houses, is being treated by the police as a murder. Swedish media said the woman who died likely was not the target. Swedish broadcaster SVT noted that the two fatal shootings brings the death toll from gun violence in September to 11, making it the deadliest month for shootings since police started keeping statistics in 2016. It was not known whether the shootings or the blast were related to each other but Swedish media said at least two of the three events were somehow connected to a feud between criminal gangs, a growing problem in Sweden with drive-by shootings and bombings. Two gangs one led by a Swedish-Turkish dual national who lives in Turkey, the other by his former lieutenant are reportedly fighting over drugs and weapons. Three people have been detained, suspected of complicity in the fatal shooting in Jordbro. Police said that two people have been arrested over the Uppsala explosion, which was so violent that the facades of two houses were blown away. Earlier this week, two powerful explosions ripped through dwellings in central Sweden, injuring at least three people and damaging buildings, with bricks and window sections left spread outside. Swedens center-right government has been tightening laws to tackle gang-related crime, while the head of Swedens police has said that warring gangs have brought an unprecedented wave of violence to the country. Earlier this week, Justice Minister Gunnar Strommer reiterated that Sweden will increase the penalty from three years to five years for possessing explosives without a permit as of April 1 when a new legislation enters into force. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The second Republican debate of the 2024 election cycle has kicked off at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, California. Former president Donald Trump is not on the stage at the debate. He is in Michigan instead, speakingat an auto parts manufacturing plant owned by Drake Enterprises. Former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump addresses auto workers as he skips the second GOP debate, in Clinton Township, Michigan, U.S., September 27, 2023 (REUTERS/Rebecca Cook)(REUTERS) Members of the Donald Trump campaign have dismissed the Republican primary debates, hinting that Donald is above all of this. Trump campaign senior adviser Chris LaCivita told CNN that the debate, being held on Wednesday, September 27, is "a joke. He added that so far it has amounted to "an interview to be the 'designated' survivor." Chris is representing Donald in the spin room, along with other surrogates. After Ron DeSantis attacked Donald for being "completely missing in action, other Donald allies took jabs at the Florida Gov. In a recent post on X, Chris wrote, Tonights GOP debate was as boring and inconsequential as the first debate, and nothing that was said will change the dynamics of the primary contest being dominated by President Trump. The RNC should immediately put an end to any further primary debates so we can train our fire on Crooked Joe Biden and quit wasting time and money that could be going to evicting Biden from the White House. 'Missing in action' and 'Strength over surrender' Two clearly pre-rehearsed, poll-tested and consultant written lines that underscore the fundamental problem with the DeSantis campaign, Andy Surabian, former Donald administration official and Donald ally, posted on social media. As many as seven candidates are participating North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, former Vice President Mike Pence, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy and Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina. Donald Trump makes direct appeal to union workers Meanwhile, in Michigan, Donald made a direct appeal to union workers to urge their leaders to endorse him for president. He also criticised Joe Bidens trip to Michigan, saying the president came"to pose for photos at the picket line," and attacked his policies which he argued "send Michigan autoworkers to the unemployment line." Thats why I'm here tonight to lay out a vision for a revival of economic nationalism and our automobile manufacturing life blood which theyre sucking out of our country. I want a future that protects American labor, not foreign labor. A future that puts American dreams over foreign profits, Donald said. The second GOP presidential debate was held in California on Wednesday night, featuring seven candidates who are vying for the Republican nomination to challenge President Joe Biden in 2024. The debate was heated and tense, with several clashes and confrontations among the contenders. TOPSHOT - (L-R) Former Governor from South Carolina and UN ambassador Nikki Haley, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy speak during the second Republican presidential primary debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, on September 27, 2023. (Photo by Robyn BECK / AFP)(AFP) One of the most fiery exchanges was between former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, who sparred over the issue of TikTok and China. Ramaswamy, who recently joined the popular social media app, defended his decision as a way to reach the next generation of young Americans where they are. Haley, however, was not impressed by his argument. She blasted him for supporting a platform that she claimed was dangerous and harmful to the national security of the US. She also accused him of helping China make medicines and of being ignorant about policy. This is infuriating because TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media apps that we could have and what youve got, I honestly, every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber for what you say, Haley said. She explained that China was using TikTok to harvest data from Americans, such as their contacts, financial information, emails, and text messages. She said that China knew exactly what they were doing and that Ramaswamy was making the country more vulnerable. Ramaswamy responded by saying that he favored declaring independence from China and that he had been very clear that kids under 16 should not use addictive social media. He also said that the Republican Party needed to win elections and that he was the only one who was reaching out to young people. I have a radical idea for the Republican Party. We need to win elections. Ramaswamy said. So while the Democrats are running rampant, reaching the next generation 3 to 1, theres exactly one person in the Republican Party, which talks a big game about reaching young people, and thats me, he added. ALSO READ| 'Are there no heights his hair won't reach?': Netizens troll Vivek Ramaswamy over his bouffant hair during GOP debate He also criticized Haley for hurling personal insults at him instead of having a legitimate debate about policy. He said that the party would be better served if they focused on the issues rather than on attacking each other. The debate did not seem to end well for Ramaswamy, as his spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin issued a statement after the event, expressing disappointment at Haleys behavior. Its a shame that Nikki Haley feels she has to resort to personal attacks in lieu of an actual vision for the country, McLaughlin said. Im sure she didnt launch personal attacks in the boardroom at Boeing, and the American people expect the same as part of the electoral process. From coast-to-coast Canadian wildfires to biblical flooding in Libya and scorching northern hemisphere heatwaves, catastrophic extreme weather events have dominated global headlines over recent months. This photograph taken on September 28, 2023 shows a car on a muddy street after the Storm Elias at Volos. Hundreds of people were rescued from floods in Greece overnight (AFP) As the planet heats due to still-rising greenhouse gas emissions, climate change has largely taken the blame for an apparent rise in extreme weather disasters. "The dog days of summer are not just barking. They are biting. Climate breakdown has begun," said Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General, after it was revealed that June to August 2023 were the hottest months ever recorded in the northern hemisphere. But how much of a heatwave or massive storm is down to global heating, and how much is just natural weather variability? This question is being answered by the relatively new science of weather attribution. It sets out to assess the extent to which human-caused climate change, driven primarily by burning fossil fuels, increases the likelihood and intensity of an extreme weather event. "No hurricane is 100% caused by climate change, but it's impacted by climate change in many different ways," Delta Merner, lead scientist at the Science Hub for Climate Litigation at the Union of Concerned Scientists, told DW. "Attribution science can help us to really tease out the role of climate change in these different events." Canadian wildfires twice as likely due to climate change When wildfires spread from the Canadian east to west coast in the summer of 2023, they burned nearly twice as much area than the previous record. In response, UK-based researchers World Weather Attribution (WWA) undertook a typically rapid study to determine how much human-driven climate change increased the likelihood of the unprecedented inferno. Focused on the province of Quebec, the report concluded that climate change helped create dry, "fire-prone" weather about 20-50% more intense than average. It more than doubled the likelihood of extreme fire weather conditions in eastern Canada. The hotter and drier weather caused snow to melt more rapidly, for example, bringing forward the start of the fire season and increasing its duration. WWA says that advances in climate modeling and better access to weather data have improved the confidence and precision of studies that gauge the probability of extreme weather events with or without climate change. Italian floods: Climate not responsible The climate crisis can't always be directly blamed for extreme weather events. In May 2023, in the northern Italian region of Emilia-Romagna, three rainstorms sparked widespread landslides and flooding that were said to be the worst in a century. But while the high waters align with rising incidences of climate-driven extreme weather globally, researchers concluded this was an isolated event. After analyzing rainfall records dating back to 1960 in Emilia-Romagna, scientists, including Friederike Otto, a climatologist at Imperial College London and co-founder of WWA, found that spring rainfall is neither becoming more nor less intense with climate change in the region. The researchers found that this particular 21-day period of rainfall a one in a 200-year event with only a 0.5% chance of happening annually could have occurred with or without climate change. The flooding was caused by highly unique and unusual weather conditions "driven by an unprecedented sequence of three low-pressure systems in the central Mediterranean," said Davide Faranda, an Italian researcher at the Institute Pierre-Simon Laplace and an author of the study. Libya and Greece floods: Climate impact can be ambiguous After Storm Daniel triggered flooding that caused two dams to burst and killed thousands in Libya in early September, a WWA study found that human-induced planetary heating made the torrential rainfall up to 50 times more likely. Massive flooding in central Greece spawned from the same storm was up to 10 times more likely. Following a summer of record heatwaves and wildfires with a "very clear climate change fingerprint, quantifying the contribution of global warming to these floods proved more challenging," said Otto. To figure out if temperature rise had spurred heavier rain in the region, scientists compared weather data from the pre-1880s climate with the current climate that has warmed 1.2 degrees Celsius (2.16 degrees Fahrenheit) since then. The report acknowledged that "large mathematical uncertainties" were built into the analysis as the weather patterns covered relatively small areas, and "most climate models do not represent rainfall on these small scales well." However, it added that "studies project heavier rain in the region as temperatures rise" and that local weather station data in Greece, for example, showed a trend toward heavier rain. A warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture, so from 1.2 Celsius of warming alone, "we would expect a 10% increase" in rainfall intensity, said Otto. Record summer heatwaves in 2023 have climate stamp As opposed to rainfall, the link between temperature extremes and global heating is much clearer. WWA published a study showing that extreme heat in the US/Mexico region and Southern Europe in July "would have been virtually impossible to occur if humans had not warmed the planet by burning fossil fuels." More than 6.5 billion people were exposed during July 2023 to one or more days of heat made at least three times more likely by climate change, according to attribution analysis by Climate Central, a US-based climate think tank. That's around 80% of the world's population. The analysis assessed 4,700 cities and 200 countries, finding that residents in 15 major cities with populations above 6 million were exposed to high average monthly temperatures made more likely by global heating. These included Mexico City, Cairo, Kolkata, Lagos, Hong Kong, Miami and Khartoum. "Human-caused climate change influenced July temperatures for the vast majority of humanity," said Andrew Pershing, vice president for science at Climate Central. "Across the entire planet, the average person was exposed to 11 days in which carbon pollution made the local temperature at least three times more likely. Virtually no place on Earth escaped the influence of climate change." Edited by: Jennifer Collins Brazils Central Bank Tightens Rules as Crypto Adoption Rises Brazils central bank governor Roberto Campos Neto. Source: a video screenshot / YouTube The central bank of Brazil has vowed to tighten rules and strengthen its oversight of crypto platforms, as crypto adoption in the country surges higher. Speaking in front of a parliamentary commission on finance and taxation on Wednesday, Roberto Campos Neto, the governor of Brazils central bank, said cryptocurrency imports by Brazilian residents have risen 44.2% in the period between January and August 2023 compared to the same period last year. In total, around 36 billion Brazilian real ($7.4 billion) worth of crypto has been brought into the country during the period, the central bank governor said. We understand that a lot is connected to tax evasion or linked to illicit activities, Neto said, while stressing that oversight of the crypto sector in Brazil will be strengthened going forward. Stablecoin adoption also on the rise In his speech, Neto noted that stablecoins have become particularly popular in Brazil, and said they are mainly used as payment for goods and services. That stands in contrast to unbacked cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH), which are mainly used as investment and savings vehicles. Digital real Known locally as Banco Central do Brasil, Brazils central bank has been given a key role in regulating the emerging crypto sector in the country. Besides overseeing the so-called private crypto market, the central bank is also working on its own central bank digital currency (CBDC), a digital version of the Brazilian real. In June, the bank unveiled a roadmap of events, including monthly webinars, ahead of the nations CBDC rollout. The events will run until November and will see the bank, fintech experts, and BCB partners discuss CBDC rollouts, as well as the results of the BCBs own digital real pilot. In July, Brazils CBDC pilot again made headlines when a blockchain developer discovered that the digital currencys source code would give the government the ability to freeze accounts or even drain them at will. Microsoft chief executive Satya Nadella is expected to testify on Monday as a witness for the U.S. Justice Department, according to a filing on the docket of its once-in-a generation court fight against Alphabet's Google. Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft Corporation Satya Nadella.(REUTERS) THE TAKE The government is likely to ask Nadella about Microsoft's efforts to expand the reach of Edge and Bing, its browser and search engine, and the obstacles posed by Google's dominance. Google will likely argue that the better quality of its products are the reason for its success rather than illegal behavior. CONTEXT * The government has argued that Google, which has some 90% of the search market, illegally paid $10 billion annually to smartphone makers like Apple and wireless carriers like AT&T and others to be the default in search on their devices in order to stay on top. * The clout in search makes Google a heavy hitter in the lucrative advertising market, boosting its profits. A New York teenager allegedly used 3D printers to make "ghost guns". According to a report by the New York Post, NYPD officials informed on Wednesday about seizing 3D printed weapons and firearm parts from an East Harlem day care run by the teenager's mother. Representational Picture(X(formerly Twitter)/@Forbes) The NYPDs Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence and Counterterrorism, Rebecca Weiner informed at a press conference that Karon Jamal Coley and two other suspects, both minors, were arrested on Tuesday following the raid on East 117th Street near Madison Avenue. Weiner further informed that during the raid, two completed 3D-printed weapons and one nearly-finished assault pistol, a 3D printer, 3D printing tools and plastic filament were found in the home where Coleys mom runs a licensed childcare facility. In the raid, a single 3D-printed lower receiver which is a central part of assault weapons, was also found. Mayor Eric Adams deplored the incident and called it "a heartbreaking scenario". This is a heartbreaking scenario of thinking that youre dropping your child off to a place of safe haven, just to find out that it was a dangerous environment where someone was making a gun inside, said Adams on Wednesday. These folks are preying on our children. We have an 18-year-old in his room with a 3D printer. Hes not making little robotic toys, hes making guns. That should be scary to everyone. That is extremely frightening, said Adams. ALSO READ| Fearless robbery in Philadelphia: Stores including Lululemon looted in Center City Investigators were lead on to the crime scene when they began a probe after learning a group of individuals, including some minors were purchasing ghost gun parts from online retailers, as well as the materials required to print 3D firearm components, Weiner told reporters. Coley has been charged with multiple crimes including criminal possession of a loaded firearm, manufacturing a machine gun, manufacturing a rapid fire modification device, manufacturing a dangerous instrument etc. There has been significant increase in the recovery of "ghost guns" in New York City, in recent years. Such privately made weapons are not easily traceable as they don't have serial numbers. North Korea has adopted a constitutional amendment to enshrine its policy on nuclear force, state media reported on Thursday, as the country's leader pledged to accelerate production of nuclear weapons to deter what he called US provocations. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un speaks during the 9th Session of the 14th Supreme People's Assembly of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, in Pyongyang.(via REUTERS) The North's rubber-stamp parliament, the Supreme People's Assembly, unanimously adopted at a two-day meeting which ended on Wednesday the revision of the constitution to stipulate that North Korea "develops highly nuclear weapons to ensure" its "rights to existence" and to "deter war", news agency KCNA said. "The DPRK's nuclear force-building policy has been made permanent as the basic law of the state, which no one is allowed to flout with anything," North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said, addressing the parliament. DPRK are the initials of the North's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. He called for "exponentially boosting the production of nuclear weapons and diversifying the nuclear strike means and deploying them in different services," saying the US has gone to extremes in its military provocations with drills and the deployment of strategic assets in the region. The amendment comes a year after North Korea officially enshrined in law the right to use preemptive nuclear strikes to protect itself, a move Kim had said would make its nuclear status "irreversible". Kim urged officials to further promote solidarity with the nations standing against the United States, denouncing trilateral cooperation between the U.S., South Korea and Japan as the "Asian-version NATO." "This is just the worst actual threat, not threatening rhetoric or an imaginary entity," he said. Kim returned home last week from a rare trip to Russia during which he and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to boost military and economic cooperation. US and South Korean officials have expressed concern that Pyongyang could be seeking technological help for its nuclear and missile programs while Moscow tries to acquire ammunition from the North to supplement its dwindling stocks for the war in Ukraine. Analysts said the North's amendment of the constitution signals further acceleration of its push for nuclear weapons development, and will likely be followed by expanded military cooperation with Moscow given Kim's recent Russia visit. "The new Cold War in the Northeast Asia region and military tensions on the Korean peninsula will intensify," said Yang Moo-jin, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul. On Tuesday, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol warned Pyongyang against using nuclear weapon, as Seoul put on the first large-scale military parade in a decade, with weapons ranging from ballistic missiles to tanks rolling through Seoul in a show of force. The announcement by parliament also comes after North Korean state media said on Wednesday Pyongyang had decided to expel Private Travis King, the U.S. soldier who ran into North Korea in July. The U.S. said he is now in American custody and heading home after being expelled to China. In his speech, Kim said ensuring a major revamp of the country's economy was "the most pressing task for the government," and urged the agricultural sector to work harder to promote the people's well-being. The North has suffered serious food shortages in recent decades, including famine in the 1990s, often as a result of natural disasters, and international experts have warned that border closures during the COVID-19 pandemic worsened food security matters. Dutch police said a gunman opened fire in a classroom at a university hospital campus in Rotterdam and a nearby house on Thursday causing multiple deaths. Netherlands' special intervention police officers gather at the Erasmus University Medical Center (Erasmus MC) in Rotterdam on September 28, 2023, which was cordoned off after two reported shooting incidents. Three people were injured in two separate shootings in Rotterdam, according to Dutch police and local media, with the gunman arrested after holing up in a hospital. (AFP) A 32-year-old suspect was arrested after police said on social media that shots had been fired at the Rotterdam Medical Centre and a home. They also said fires had broken out at both locations. It was unclear how many people were hurt at each location. Officers were entering the premises of the hospital university in search of possible victims or people hiding, Dutch news agency ANP reported. Videos posted online showed police instructing students, some wearing medical gowns, to run outside as heavily armed arrest teams arrived at the scene. One video showed a man in handcuffs wearing what appeared to be camouflage pants. Two hours later police said there had been multiple deaths and that victims' family members were being informed. "This is a very dark day," caretaker Minister of Justice and Security Dilan Yesilgoz was quoted by newspaper de Telegraaf as saying in comments made in Brussels. Police said there were no indications of a second shooter. A press conference was scheduled by local officials. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Baltimore based Tech CEO Pava LePere's murder suspect Jason Dean Billingsley has been arrested. Jason Dean Billingsley has been arrested for murder of Tech CEO Pava LePere based in Baltimore The arrest comes a day after police had issued a warning against his violent past and that he could kill and rape, sending shockwaves across the state. LePere was found dead in her luxury apartment, from Bowie, Maryland on 11pm Wednesday. US Marshals Service Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force along with state and local authorities successfully captured the criminal after he was reportedly tracking him to a train station. The 26-year-old founder of EcoMap Technologies had been reported missing on Monday, which led cops to find her dead with signs of blunt force trauma. Suggesting that it was a random attack authorities are certain that LaPere did not know him. Also Read: Tech CEO Pava LaPere murdered, cops warn suspect will, kill and he will rape Who is Jason Dean Billingsley Billingsley has a violent criminal history that includes a sex offense, second-degree assault, and robbery. In 2015, he even pleaded guilty to a first-degree sex offense and was sentenced to 30 years, but was released on parole in October 2022. In the case, Jason had allegedly raped a woman, slit her throat and then poured liquid on her and her husband to set them on fire. The couple survived. A child present in the house was also hospitalised due to burn injuries. Reports suggest, after the police issued a warning that Jason was dangerous enough to kill and rape again his mother begged him to surrender. I told him that he needs to turn himself in, but I really dont think hes going to do that because hes scared, Scarlett told local media. Who is Tech CEO Pava LePere Meanwhile, LaPere had a good successful career to boast off, only 10 months back 26-year-old entrepreneur was featured by Forbes in its 30 under 30 list. She had launched her social tech startup from her John Hopkins University at the age of 22. Her family called her a, "She was driven, creative, hard-working and relentless in her efforts, with her wonderful team at EcoMap Technologies," her family said. EcoMap Technologies also released a tribute to their late leader before holding a vigil on Wednesday. "The circumstances surrounding Pava's death are deeply distressing, and our deepest condolences are with her family, friends and loved ones during this incredibly devastating time," the company wrote. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON A lone gunman wearing a bulletproof vest opened fire in an apartment and a hospital in the Dutch port city of Rotterdam on Thursday, killing three people, including a 14-year-old girl, police said. A fire brigade vehicle is seen near the medical center, after Dutch police arrested a suspect after a shooting in Rotterdam, Netherlands, September 28, 2023. (REUTERS) The shooting sent patients and medics fleeing the Erasmus Medical Center in downtown Rotterdam, including some who were wheeled out of the building in beds. Others barricaded themselves into rooms and stuck hand-written signs to windows to show their location. Police Chief Fred Westerbeke told reporters that the shooter was a 32-year-old student from Rotterdam. He was arrested at the hospital carrying a firearm. His identity was not released, and the motive for the shootings was still under investigation. We are on WhatsApp now. Click to join. Also Read: At least 6 killed in bar shooting during Independence day celebrations in Mexico He first shot and killed a 39-year-old woman and seriously injured her 14-year-old daughter at an apartment close to where the suspect lived, Police Chief Fred Westerbeke said. Police said the girl later died of her injuries. The shooter then went to the nearby Erasmus Medical Center where he shot and killed a 46-year-old man, a teacher at the academic hospital, the police chief added. He also started fires at the scenes of both shootings. The identities of the victims were not released. The suspect was cooperating with police, Westerbeke said. It was a black day, said Rotterdam Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb. Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima expressed their sympathy on social media. Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the victims of the violence this afternoon in Rotterdam, the royal pair wrote. We also think of everybody who lived in fear during these terrible actions, they added. The Erasmus Medical Center appealed on social media for people not to go to the hospital, but later said it was reopening. It said that all appointments scheduled for Friday would go ahead as planned. There have been scores of small explosions and at homes and businesses across Rotterdam this year, blamed on rival drug gangs. There was no immediate suggestion that Thursday's shooting was linked to the feuding drug gangs. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau apologized Wednesday for Parliaments recognition of a man who fought alongside the Nazis during last weeks address by Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (REUTERS) Trudeau said the speaker of the House of Commons, who resigned Tuesday, was solely responsible for the invitation and recognition of the man but said it was a mistake that has deeply embarrassed Parliament and Canada. All of us who were in the House on Friday regret deeply having stood and clapped, even though we did so unaware of the context, Trudeau said before he entering the House of Commons. It was a horrendous violation of the memory of the millions of people who died in the Holocaust, and was deeply, deeply painful for Jewish people. Trudeau repeated the apology in Parliament. Just after Zelenskyy delivered an address in the House of Commons on Friday, Canadian lawmakers gave 98-year-old Yaroslav Hunka a standing ovation when Speaker Anthony Rota drew attention to him. Rota introduced Hunka as a war hero who fought for the First Ukrainian Division. Observers over the weekend began to publicize the fact that the First Ukrainian Division also was known as the Waffen-SS Galicia Division, or the SS 14th Waffen Division, a voluntary unit that was under the command of the Nazis. It is extremely troubling to think that this egregious error is being politicized by Russia, and its supporters, to provide false propaganda about what Ukraine is fighting for," Trudeau said. In Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said earlier this week that the standing ovation for Hunka was outrageous," and he called it the result of a sloppy attitude" toward remembering the Nazi regime. Russian President Vladimir Putin has painted his enemies in Ukraine as neo-Nazis, although Zelenskyy is Jewish and lost relatives in the Holocaust. Speaker of the House Anthony Rota stepped down on Tuesday after meeting with the House of Commons party leaders, and after all of the main opposition parties called on him to resign. House government leader Karina Gould said that Rota invited and recognized Hunka without informing the government or the delegation from Ukraine, and that his lack of due diligence had broken the trust of lawmakers. In an earlier apology on Sunday, Rota said he alone was responsible for inviting and recognizing Hunka, who is from the district that Rota represents. The speakers office said it was Hunkas son who contacted Rotas local office to see if it was possible if he could attend Zelenskyys speech. The Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies has called the incident "a stain on our countrys venerable legislature with profound implications both in Canada and globally. Ukraine's Air Force said on Thursday its air defence systems shot down 34 of 44 Shahed drones that Russia launched overnight, while a regional official said no casualties were caused by the attack. "Fighter aircraft, anti-aircraft missile units and mobile fire groups were engaged to repel the attack," the military said. "Fighter aircraft, anti-aircraft missile units and mobile fire groups were engaged to repel the attack," the military said on the Telegram messaging app. Odesa regional governor Oleh Kiper said his region was the main target, but the attack left no casualties. "Our air defence forces did an excellent job," Kiper said on Telegram. "No hits or destruction. There were no casualties. There were only a few small fires on dry grass as a result of the falling wreckage of the downed Shahed." Ukraine's southern seaport region of Odesa has suffered Russian drone and missile attacks since July, when Russia left a UN-brokered grain export deal that allowed Kyiv to ship its grain abroad. United States has restarted its free Covid test program. As per the latest update, four more free COVID-19 rapid tests per household, can be ordered from the official website of the United States government- COVIDTests.gov. The rapid tests will be delivered directly to the people's homes. COVID-19 antigen home tests(AP) The free COVID-19 rapid tests, are aimed to help uninsured individuals and underserved communities. The tests are advised if a person has COVID-19 symptoms like fever, sore throat, runny nose, or loss of taste or smell. According to the information available on the US government's official website, the COVID-19 rapid tests are rapid antigen at-home tests, not PCR. The tests don't require lab drop-off and the results are available within 30 minutes. The tests can be used for testing whether a person has COVID-19 symptoms or not. It can also be used for testing whether a person is up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines or not. Notably, Covid-19 cases are on the rise in the US and authorities are monitoring two new variants, BA.2.86, known as Pirola, and EG.5, known as Eris. Meanwhile, new Covid boosters from Pfizer and Moderna are now available at pharmacies across the US. ALSO READ| Body double of Melania Trump?, what netizens say about the conspiracy theory When to take the at-home COVID-19 rapid tests If a person is having COVID-19 symptoms like fever, sore throat, runny nose, or loss of taste or smell. At least 5 days after a person comes into close contact with someone suffering from COVID-19. Before participating in a gathering with a group of people, especially those who are at risk of severe disease or may not be up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines. . US State Secretary Antony Blinken has launched the Global Music Diplomacy Initiative, a worldwide effort to elevate music as a diplomatic tool to promote peace and democracy and support the US broader foreign policy goals, according to a fact sheet issued by the US Department of State on Wednesday. US State Secretary Antony Blinken plays guitar at the launch event of the Global Music Diplomacy Initiative(X/Secretary Antony Blinken) The Global Music Diplomacy Initiative aims to leverage public-private partnerships to create a music ecosystem that expands economic equity and the creative economy, ensures societal opportunity and inclusion, and increases access to education. It will build on current public diplomacy music programs to create public-private partnerships with American companies and non-profits to use music to meet the moment, convey American leadership globally, and create connections with people worldwide. READ: US says stand on Canada row already made clear, ahead of Jaishankar-Blinken meet | 10 points I couldnt pass up tonights opportunity to combine music and diplomacy. Was a pleasure to launch @StateDepts new Global Music Diplomacy Initiative, the US State Secretary wrote on X formerly Twitter on Thursday. He also shared a video of him singing, playing the guitar. The Secretary announced the American Music Mentorship Program, the Fulbright-Kennedy Center Visiting Scholar Award in Arts and Science, and efforts to bring American music and lyrics into classrooms across the world as part of the United States investment in English-language learning worldwide. Blinken was accompanied by senior Biden-Harris Administration officials, a bipartisan cohort of Members of Congress, music industry icons, leaders from the arts and humanities, and alumni from the Departments music diplomacy exchanges. READ | Antony Blinken adores Diljit Dosanjh. Proof? He said so: In US, we dance The launch event included live performances by American and international artists from a variety of music genres and was supported through generous private sector sponsors. The American Music Mentorship Program, a partnership between the US Department of State and the Recording Academy, will bring international mid-career music industry professionals, which may include musical artists, to the US for mentorship and networking opportunities, with an aim to cultivate a professional music industry ecosystem locally and globally, to support creative talent, and to strengthen the creative economy globally, as per the fact sheet. The Fulbright Program, the US flagship international academic exchange program, will collaborate with the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts to create a new fellowship opportunity for foreign scholars. The department will also incorporate music into its existing USD 40 million investment in English-language learning worldwide, including through exchanges, curriculum, and scholarships to provide access to English-learning classes for promising students between the ages of 13 and 20, according to the fact sheet. The Fluvanna County Sheriffs Office assisted the local high schools dismissal after it received a bomb threat. On Sept. 27, Fluvanna County High School was made aware of a post on social media containing the threat, according to a statement released by the sheriffs office. The schools administration alerted the sheriffs office, and began dismissing students. Authorities and the schools administration were unaware of the time the original post was made, but it came to their attention around the end of the school day, according to Fluvanna County Sheriffs Office Lieutenant Aaron Hurd. The post was not specified to the school or staff. It was first observed by a student who brought it to administration. It looked like it was more related to individuals that were having an inappropriate conversation, Hurd told The Daily Progress. Investigators conducted interviews with families and followed leads on the night of the incident, according to Hurd. The school was searched yesterday so we could reasonably turn it back over to the school with some confidence that the building was fit to continue being used, Hurd said. No arrests have been made, and there are currently no named suspects, according to Hurd. The second Republican debate of the 2024 election cycle kicked off at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, California. As many as seven candidates participated, including North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, former Vice President Mike Pence, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy and Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina. Vivek Ramaswamy speaks during the second Republican candidates' debate of the 2024 U.S. presidential campaign at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, U.S. September 27, 2023 (REUTERS/Mike Blake)(REUTERS) As the politicians debated to establish their points on various topics,Vivek notably called for the end of birthright citizenship for children who were born in the US, with parents who entered the country illegally. I favour ending birthright citizenship for the kids of illegal immigrants in this country, he said. Now, the left will howl about the Constitution and the 14th Amendment. The difference between me and them is I've actually read the 14th Amendment, Vivek added. What it says is that all persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the laws and jurisdiction thereof are citizens. So nobody believes that the kid of a Mexican diplomat in this country enjoys birthright citizenship. What are X users saying? A video of Vivek making the remarks, shared on X by Collin Rug, received mixed reactions from users. Vivek, it's crucial to remember that every child deserves a fair shot at a future. Let's work towards comprehensive immigration reform that balances compassion and the rule of law, one user commented. He just saying to feel good but once he goes in office. Not going to happen, another user said. This is a terrible view point, one user said. Most X users, however, supported Viveks idea, with one of them saying, This would de-incentivize people from entering illegally and take the legal route, as many other immigrants do. Not a bad idea. He might get my vote for that one reason alone, one user said, while another wrote, Makes sense. He clearly mentions kids of illegal immigrants not immigrants who came here legally and then had kids thereafter. As an immigrant myself I think this does solve a huge blank check incentive which would cost us billions in healthcare and other services. Bold statement but a needed step. Not a fan of the guy, but I like that, one user wrote. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Theyre going to remember how you spoke, how you showed up and how your presence was in those particular moments, said body language expert Chris Ulrich in an exclusive with The Post. Theyre going to remember how you spoke, how you showed up and how your presence was in those particular moments, said body language expert Chris Ulrich (AP) According to Chris, some of the best indicators of leadership potential have little to do with words spoken. Instead, candidates at the second Republican debate of the 2024 campaign were challenged to balance two key factors: confidence and likability. Theyre trying to do two things: One, come across competent and effective like they could sit in the presidential chair, he began. And then in the same vein, the other thing that voters are looking for is: Are you likeable? Can I trust you? What were looking at is openness vs. closed in our body language or an increase of anxiety or a calmness," he put forth. Chris Christie: Show up or Shut up' Chris Christie created a huge buzz Thursday night, slumping over the podium in his typical shoot-from-the-hip approach. When he made one of the most memorable comments of the night calling Donald Trump- former American president- Donald Duck, he shined with a powerful hand gesture, said Chris Ulrich. Additionally, he pointed to the camera to emphasize his point. Its kind of like if you ever seen those Uncle Sam wants you posters [from World War II], began the expert. He is saying to Donald Trump, Show up or shut up.' Nikki Haley: Powerful Nikki Haley's performance on Wednesday evoked confidence and relatability through her decisive answers and assertive gestures, said Chris. The chopping motion she used while making her points helped her come across as a very focused and powerful candidate. Vivek Ramaswamy: Laughing Vivek was one of the most targeted candidates in the Republican debate, considering his enormous jump in the polls post the first debate. While Chris appreciates the Indian-American candidate's openness and enthusiasm he thinks he made a mistake by answering too jovially to the remarks made on him. Its important to laugh it off, but at a certain moment, it would have been nice to see him back up and say, Hey, enough is enough,' said Chris. We saw him kind of do that a little bit, but not enough, And so he got beat up to the point where I think he got hurt a little bit tonight, he added. Tim Scott: Relaxed Tim Scott garnered more speaking time in the second debate and was noticeably more vocal this time. Tim Scott was much more relaxed in his body language. He was at ease, said Chris. He was trained, probably, but he came across very comfortable in his body language and the pace of his speech. According to the body language expert, a factor that hurt Tim's performance during the discussion was his inability to converse amid interruptions. "He would ultimately get quiet, he said. We saw that with Jeb Bush when he was battling with (Donald) Trump, and that hurt him in those times. Ron DeSantis: Not a normal smile As per Chris, Ron has got an issue with his smile. It is just not his thing. The Florida governor's strained grin- which has become the source of many memes was visible again as he tried to smile through his criticisms. Its not a normal smile he doesnt engage the corners of his mouth, theres no crows feet, pointed Chris. The only time we see that slowdown is literally at the end of the debate. In the last half hour, we see a calmer DeSantis, a clearer DeSantis, he added. Doug Burgum: Talked so fast For Doug, its like, Thanks for playing, Doug.' I mean, he had to literally force himself into the debate as he gets so few questions. The North Dakota governor got little to no footage in the debate and was nearly being squeezed out of the picture, observed Chris. When Doug did get questions, he failed to answer them correctly with confidence as he rushes his answers. He talked so fast. Mike Pence: Awkward Mike Pence has served as the Vice-President in 2016, serving a term alongside former President Donald Trump. Chris states that Mike played well in the first Republican debate. Hes a known entity, and at the last debate, he was more presidential, Ulrich said. When he talks, he slows down and delivers his lines. However, in the second one, he fumbled over his point at times. Today he was stepping over himself he couldnt even deliver his lines, Ulrich said. And so that awkwardness hurts him. Who won the 2nd GOP debate? You can make the argument theres no alternative yet to (President) Biden or Trump, began the body language expert. At the end of the day, these folks are trying to survive on the island and the question will be, Do they resonate with the American people? not only from what they said, but how they showed up. Did the folks at this debate show up in a way that will, at the end of the day, have the American people and Republican voters say, Ive seen on this debate stage as an alternative to President Trump?' Ulrich asked. Im not sure. (Photo : ED JONES/AFP via Getty Images) North Korea's flag is displayed with others at the United Nations in New York on June 21, 2023. North Korea accused the United States of making 2023 an "extremely dangerous year," claiming that its actions are intended to provoke a nuclear war. North Korean UN ambassador Kim Song stated that Washington was attempting to form "the Asian version of NATO," a military alliance comprised of European and North American nations. US is Accused of Making 2023 'Extremely Dangerous' In his speech to world leaders, Kim used harsher language than he did at the same United Nations General Assembly meeting last year. It is always noteworthy when a nation developing its nuclear program uses such forceful language, but Pyongyang's government frequently employs hyperbole in its public statements. Pyongyang also condemned both US and South Korean leaders for "hysterical confrontational remarks" that, according to North Korea, are increasing tensions in the region. Kim took particular issue with what he termed US and South Korean statements that he said were about "the end of the regime" and the "occupation of Pyongyang," the capital of what the country calls the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. North Korea stated last month that it had practiced how it would occupy South Korean territory in the event of a conflict. North Korea's military stated that it launched two tactical ballistic missiles from Pyongyang to rehearse "scorched earth" attacks on main South Korean command centers and operational airfields. The North claimed that its missile tests were in response to a US flyover of long-range B-1B bombers for a joint exercise with South Korea, a close ally. Periodically, the North launches what it claims are test missiles, often in response to perceived provocations from the United States or South Korea, as per The Independent. After its liberation from Japan's 35-year colonial rule at the conclusion of World War II in 1945, the Korean Peninsula was divided into the US-supported, capitalist South Korea and the Soviet-supported, socialist North Korea. Since the conclusion of the 1950-1953 Korean War, the two Koreas have maintained the world's most severely fortified border and are technically still at war 70 years after the armistice was signed. According to Business Standard, Kim Jong Un presides over an autocratic government and represents the third ruling generation of his family. His father, Kim Jong Il, died in 2011, and his grandfather, Kim Il Sung, was a former revolutionary who founded the state. Kim Song stated that the DPRK must urgently accelerate the development of its self-defense capabilities in order to defend itself impregnably. The greater the rash military maneuvers and provocations of hostile forces that imperil the sovereignty and security of our nation, the greater our efforts to bolster national defense capabilities will increase proportionally. Read Also: Canadian House Speaker Anthony Rota Announces Resignation Following Controversy of Praising Nazi Veteran South Korea Showcases Military Might Meanwhile, South Korea marched thousands of troops and an array of military equipment through its capital as part of its largest Armed Forces Day ceremony in a decade, as its president pledged to create a stronger military to counter any provocation by the North. In exchange for supplying Russia with conventional arms depleted by its invasion of Ukraine, there is a developing fear that North Korea is pursuing Russian assistance to expand its nuclear arsenal. Earlier, South Korea carried tanks, artillery systems, drones, and potent ballistic missiles capable of striking the entirety of North Korea through the streets of Seoul despite the persistent autumn rains. Approximately 4,000 South Korean personnel carrying rifles or flags followed them, accompanied by approximately 300 American soldiers in the first military parade of this type since 2013. Per The Independent, Yoon waved, applauded, and displayed a thumbs-up as the soldiers and their weapons passed by. Since assuming office a year ago, he has exerted great effort to strengthen South Korea's defenses and expand military exercises with the United States in response to North Korea's growing nuclear arsenal. The latest North Korean effort to deepen military cooperation with Russia, however, complicates Seoul and Washington's efforts to curtail the North's nuclear ambitions. Kim Jong Un traveled to Russia's far eastern region earlier this month in order to meet with Vladimir Putin and visit critical military installations. According to reports, North Korea desires Russian technologies to aid in the development of surveillance satellites, nuclear-powered submarines, and potent long-range missiles. Related Article: US Warns Not To Sell Arms to Russia as Kim Jong Un Arrives in Moscow To Meet Vladimir Putin @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. (Photo : Morris MacMatzen/Getty Images) ECKERNFOERDE, GERMANY - FEBRUARY 21: A submarine emerges next to the frigate Hessen during the inaugural visit of German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius (not pictured) to the German Navy (Marine) on February 21, 2023 at Eckernfoerde, Germany. Pistorius, who took office in January, has promised an effective modernization of the German military with the EUR 100 billion special defence fund announced last year by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The new underwater kamikaze drone 'Marichka' is tested prior to its deployment against Russian President Vladimir Putin's navy, as captured on footage. The newly designed torpedo, capable of carrying approximately 1,000 pounds of explosives, will be launched against Russian warships and submarines as Ukraine continues to repel Vladimir Putin's navy in the Black Sea. Ukraine's Game-Changer: Underwater Kamikaze Stealth Drone It is also anticipated to target the $3.64 billion Crimean Bridge, a vital Russian supply route into Ukraine that Kyiv's forces have already struck twice during the conflict, which the Russians have only partially repaired. The footage depicts the 20-foot-long, $430,000 sea weapon being tested in the water prior to its deployment at a top-secret location. It is a creation of Ammunition. Volunteers from Ukraine possess immunity to Russian radio-electronic warfare systems, rendering them largely "invisible to the adversary." In addition, it has a unique communication system with the operator that allows the submersible to be controlled from vast distances and depths. It is an innovation distinct from Ukraine's 'Sea Baby' drone, which has been employed against the bridge and other vessels. The Marichka drone, according to its manufacturers, "cannot be detected by radars, scanners, or echo sounders" and has a range of approximately 620 miles, which is sufficient to strike critical Russian targets stationed around occupied Crimea in the Black Sea. The submarine drone can be used to strike enemy targets but also for reconnaissance, and has the capacity to loiter on standby mode in the water before being directed at a target. To bolster its arsenal, and in the face of Russia's superior long-range missiles, Ukraine has taken to manufacturing drones, which have proved to be one of the deadliest and most prevalent weapons since Putin's invasion. According to The Economist, an army of volunteers constructs up to 90 percent of Ukraine's military drones in garages and warehouses scattered across the country, with approximately 200 drone start-up companies now functioning within its borders. The majority of drones are deployed above land by soldiers who can fly them with pinpoint precision to drop munitions on Russian positions, destroy trenches and shelters, or crash explosive-laden drones into concealed targets. According to The Sun, the high-tech weapon possesses reconnaissance capabilities and the ability to loiter in inactive mode prior to engaging targets. It differs from the 'Sea Baby' drone, which can travel 500 miles and transport 300 kilograms of explosives and is responsible for a spate of audacious attacks on Russian vessels over the past few months. Read Also: Moscow Court Rejects Dissident Alexey Navalny's Appeal Against 19-Year Prison Sentence Marichka vs. Sea Baby Drone The Marichka has been added to Ukraine's arsenal of ambitious, experimental drones after Kyiv dramatically increased production of the do-it-yourself armaments. The nation's drone revolution has generated some of the most devastating weapons of the conflict so far and provided a critical answer to Moscow's superior long-range missiles. Using 3D printers, readily available parts, and donated materials, game-changing weapons are being cobbled together in dormitories, garages, and covert factories across Ukraine. And recently, newly designed maritime drones have taken center stage in the conflict, instilling dread in the formerly Russian-dominated Black Sea. In their extraordinary campaign to end Putin's naval superiority, Ukraine's sea drone pilots have been labeled the "new Dambusters." On September 16, a 'Sea Baby' drone violently struck a Russian missile hovercraft, making it the fourth Russian vessel to be damaged in the preceding three days. Samum, a Black Sea vessel, had to be towed into Sevastopol harbor after suffering "significant damage" from the attack. Per Daily Express, it poses a formidable menace to hostile targets, with a warhead weighing approximately 200 kilograms. Notably, the drone has been designed to resist electronic warfare systems, providing a significant advantage against potential foes. Given the prospective impact of the drone on Ukraine's defense strategy, this expenditure appears reasonable. The dual-purpose functionality of the Marichka drone is one of its distinguishing characteristics. It can also be used as a kamikaze drone when necessary. In addition, the Marichka is outfitted to conduct reconnaissance missions, thereby enhancing Ukraine's capacity to collect vital intelligence. The successful demonstration of the Marichka drone represents a major milestone in Ukraine's efforts to bolster its defense capabilities and protect its national security from Russian aggression. Related Article: New Russian Units Allegedly Being Established; Will These Overwhelm Ukraine's Counteroffensives? @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Officials in Indonesia announced a new regulation on Wednesday (September 27) about banning goods transactions on social media platforms to rein in direct sales by major tech firms. Officials said it harmed millions of small businesses, especially in the retail industry. The new regulation was a blow to Chinese short video app TikTok, which was doubling down on Southeast Asia's biggest economy to boost its e-commerce business, Reuters reported. According to Indonesian trade minister Zulkifli Hasan, the move, which was to take effect immediately, aimed at protecting offline merchants and marketplaces. The official also said that predatory pricing on social media platforms was threatening small- and medium-sized enterprises. The new regulation required e-commerce platforms in the country to set a minimum price of $100 for certain items that were directly purchased from abroad and that all products offered should meet local standards. Earlier this week, Indonesian officials stated their intention to ban social media goods transactions to consider the livelihood of more than six million local sellers active on TikTok. Read Also: Target Announces Store Shutdowns Affecting Major US Cities Jakarta Backpedals from TikTok's Investment Pledge The ban came just three months after TikTok pledged to invest billions of dollars in Southeast Asia, especially in Indonesia, over the next few years in a major endeavor to build its e-commerce platform, TikTok Shop. China's ByteDance owns the app and has 125 million active monthly users in Indonesia alone. It has been looking to translate the large user base into a major e-commerce revenue source. Zulkifli told reporters Wednesday that the regulation was implemented to ensure "fair and just" business competition, adding it was also intended to ensure data protection of users. He additionally warned of making social media a one-stop shop for financial and business matters, such as being an e-commerce platform, store, and bank all at the same time. The minister also gave TikTok one week to comply with the regulation or face the threat of closure. ByteDance did not immediately respond to reporters' requests for comment. Public Reaction and Reception Research firm BMI said earlier on Wednesday that TikTok would be the only business affected by the transaction ban, and Jakarta's move was unlikely to harm the digital marketplace industry's growth. On the other hand, retailers have a mixed reception to the news. Some view TikTok as a way for stores to recover from the blow dealt by the COVID-19 pandemic, while others see the regulation as a necessary way to limit the items being sold online. Meanwhile, traditional e-commerce players in Indonesia, such as Sea Ltd.'s Shopee, are expected to receive the news positively, global investment bank Citi told CNBC. Related Article: Indonesian Government Considers Ban on TikTok Sales Amid Discussions Over Country's E-Commerce @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The Writers Guild of America (WGA) settled on a new contract with Hollywood studios after a strike that lasted a record-breaking 148 days. According to the guild, this is an "exceptional" arrangement, and the next vote by members should be a landslide. Although not yet formally recognized, the strike has ended, and production in Hollywood may continue. Getting Back to Writing Duties The good news is that writing tasks can resume. Before the Hollywood studios and the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) could reach a new contract and end the actors' strike, production could not proceed. SAG negotiations will renew as soon as next week, and the advances made in the new WGA deal will likely serve as a pattern for the current talks. The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) is an alliance of Hollywood companies that includes Disney, Warner Bros., Paramount, Netflix, Apple, Amazon, and more. In their arrangement with the writers, they established the conditions of their contracts for the following three years. More information about the new tentative contract is available on the WGA website. Also Read: SAG-AFTRA Authorizes Video Game Actor Strikes for Higher Pay, Better Conditions Fresh Deal According to 9to5Mac, increases to the basic minimum wage are included, as are safeguards against introducing artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Benefits and assurances for writers working in pre-production are also improved. This contract contains a bonus payment schedule for high-budget streaming media, which may be the most crucial aspect as the industry shifts more toward digital streaming rather than a broadcast TV paradigm. A writer will get a bonus of 50% of their regular residual payment if a high-budget streaming program or movie is watched by more than 20% of a streaming service's subscriber base during the first 90 days of its release. For a one-hour TV program, this is about the same as a bonus of $16,000, and for a full-length movie, it is around $40,000. The guild initially wanted streamers to provide more viewership and demographic information publicly, but the streamers refused. The guild will have access to private information on the number of viewers for each original series in the US and other countries. Still, it is prohibited from making such information public. It can only share certain 'aggregate' viewing statistics to protect privacy. To recommence production on key titles like the second season of Severance, Apple has to secure a contract with the writers to get the content pipeline for Apple TV+ back up and running. However, when precisely it will be is yet unknown. A speedy agreement with the SAG-AFTRA is unlikely since the holiday seasons of Thanksgiving and Christmas would interfere. With so many studios competing for resources, productions must juggle and plan around whatever sets, actors, and crews are available. Also Read: Hollywood Strike Nears Conclusion After Writers Reach Tentative Deal with Studios: Reports @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The Chinese government has just issued a list of app stores that are complying with its new rules. However, Apple's store is not included in the listing. Apple's Store Not Complying? Following the enactment of a new rule in China that requires businesses managing app stores to provide information about their operations, the country has now made public a list of companies adhering to the law. But apparently, Apple is missing from this list of companies. In a story published by Reuters on Wednesday, September 27, other rivals in this field have reportedly filed the aforementioned data, and they conform with the requirements. There are a total of 26 firms on the list, six of which are considered to be among the most powerful in the industry. These are Baidu, Huawei, Tencent, Xiaomi, Samsung, and Alibaba-owned Ant Group. The cutoff date for the submission of information has been determined, and it is less than a year away. According to Apple Insider, companies have until March 2024 to submit their applications. This is based on the directive of the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), issued in August 2023. In addition to app stores, the rule mandates that app developers must either have a business presence in China or collaborate with a publisher based there. The new regulation in China covers much more ground than simply big app stores. Any business that provides online information services through apps in certain industries, including journalism, publishing, education, cinema and television, and religious practice, is required to provide comparable paperwork under the new laws enforced by the CAC. There is a lack of clarity around how or when Apple will comply with the demand imposed by China. It is less obvious how smaller organizations, including news venues, would handle this situation. See Also: Apple Exec Eddy Cue to Testify in Google's Search Engine Dominance Trial Recent Crackdown on App Developers Major smartphone apps like X, Facebook, and Instagram are blocked in China because of the government's longstanding monopoly on app distribution there. Even whole classes of software have been outlawed by the government, such as VPNs and, more recently, generative artificial intelligence (AI) programs. There has also been a push to restrict gambling by requiring individual licenses for mobile gaming apps. And the most recent crackdown on app developers was revealed last month. In a report by 9to5Mac, the new legislation mandates that anybody wishing to make an app accessible in China's App Store must first "file business details" with the country's government. Developers will also be required by law to establish a local Chinese publishing entity. The first step in enforcing the rule is for app stores to establish filing systems to verify the legality of newly released apps. This had to be completed by the end of August. See Also: iPhone 15 Pro Chaos: Store Worker Brutally Attacked by Customer Over Apple's Latest Phone Availability @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Travis King, the US soldier who sprinted into North Korea in an attempt to escape disciplinary charges during his tour in South Korea last July, has been released by North Korea and is now in US custody. Officials in Pyongyang earlier confirmed they have King in their custody and are set to expel him, an unprecedented move that surprised some Korean Peninsula observers who were expecting the North to drag out his detention in the hopes of squeezing concessions from Washington at a time of high tensions between the rivals. One of the US officials familiar with the matter told the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity that King was transferred to American custody in China with the help of the Swedish government. Both the White House and the Pentagon have not responded to reporters' requests for comment. North Korea Deems King Strategically Irrelevant King served in Korea prior to the desertion incident. After at least two altercations which brought him under South Korean police custody, he was supposed to be sent home to face disciplinary charges when he failed to board the plane bound for the US and instead joined a civilian tour of a border village near Panmunjom. North Korean state media KCNA reported Wednesday (September 27) that authorities have concluded their questioning of King. The African-American soldier confessed he illegally entered the country because he harbored ill sentiments about alleged inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination against both the South and the US Army. According to Sejong Institute analyst Cheong Seong-Chang and Kyungnam University North Korean studies professor Lim Eul-chul, Pyongyang's decision to release King was based on its conclusion that he was not someone of high value to be kept in the hermit kingdom and did not have any worth in terms of military intelligence. Read Also: House Foreign Affairs Chief Michael McCaul Warns of North Korea's Potential Demands as US Urges Release of Soldier Travis King King's Fate To Be Determined by US Army Court Martial While King's whereabouts and condition have been confirmed, this would not be the end of his troubles as he would still face disciplinary charges against him prior to his crossing the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). On top of that, he would also likely face a court martial as the US government has declared him absent without official leave (AWOL). If convicted, he would be sentenced to military jail time, forfeiture of pay, a dishonorable discharge, or a combination of any of the three. Related Article: North Korea Responds to UN Over Travis King Request, US Pentagon Confirms @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. One hour before his death, Eldridge Vandrew Skeeta Smith, 36, met up with a man he was trying to recruit to the B.U.C.K. Squad, a group that uses its members own street credibility to stave off violence. On Wednesday, day two of the murder trial for that man, Tadashi Demetrius Keyes, prosecutors showed jurors a torrent of electronic evidence putting Keyes and Smith together in a vehicle on a winter night. Video allowed me to track their movements leading up to the homicide, testified Charlottesville Police detective Christopher Raines. The detective showed evidence of more than a dozen calls and texts between the two men on the afternoon of Jan. 28 as they made plans to meet up at the ABC Store on West Main Street. Raines played video from inside and outside the store where, he said, Keyes put down a $100 bill for a bottle of Alize Red Passion and a bottle of E & J Brandy. Investigators later found both such bottles inside the Acura SUV where Smith, sitting in the drivers seat, was shot to death. Raines directed jurors to a gesture Keyes could be seen making as he was leaving the liquor store. He was favoring something in a right pocket, Raines testified. The ABC store footage also allowed jurors to see what Keyes was wearing: an orange hospital visitor band on his left wrist, a light gray t-shirt, and a dark gray zip-up hooded sweatshirt. He unzips his hoodie, said Raines, and you can see the light gray t-shirt underneath. Jurors got to see a lot of a gray hoodie after Detective Edward Maney testified how, a few days after the slaying, he found one that had been stuffed into a Cherry Avenue storm drain. It was a detective named Ian Haug, however, who cut open a brown-paper evidence bag to reveal a gray hoodie which he then hung from a clothing rack in the main courtroom in the Charlottesville Circuit Courthouse. As Haug wheeled the garment past the jurors, he pointed to a marble-sized hole in the turned-out right pocket. A burn hole? asked Charlottesville Commonwealths Attorney Joe Platania. Haug said that the stolen Taurus G3 9mm pistol that police found in another storm drain would have had plenty of residual heat from 14 shots fired in quick succession to melt that pocket. I held the barrel up to the hole, said Haug. The diameter of the burn hole is similar in size. The defendant, brought to court daily from the Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail, where hes been held since his February 3 arrest, watched this show-and-tell without emotion. The prosecution wasnt finished with the hoodie because the hoodie went missing from post-shooting videos. Detective Raines showed the jurors footage from convenience stores showing someone that Raines said was Keyes running away from the scene through the Fifeville neighborhood with the glint of the orange wristband but no hoodie. It was cold outside, and this individual was walking around in shirtsleeves, Raines said. Then after more than a half an hour gap, Keyes reappeared on video. This time, the jury saw footage from no fewer than 11 University of Virginia cameras showing Keyes in and around the UVa Hospital wearing a different hoodie. Defense attorney Bryan Jones noted that one video that Raines neglected to show the jury showed a four-door sedan leaving the vicinity of the shooting. I determined that the vehicle was irrelevant to the investigation, said Raines, citing the alleged impossibility of it reaching that spot in time. Besides the burn hole, other gun evidence included testimony from a state ballistics examiner tying the 13 shell casings found at the crime scene to the discarded weapon. Another key link in the prosecutions evidence came from a DNA examiner with the state forensics laboratory. Kelly Miller testified that after swabbing the hoodie, she found a mixture of DNA sources but that the major profile matched the DNA obtained in a post-arrest cheek swab of Keyes. One of the few points scored by the defense Wednesday was the revelation that this senior forensic scientist didnt initially spot the match in Virginias DNA databank, where Keyes profile has been stored since the mid 2000s, according to prosecutors. Another crucial link in the prosecutions case was that four minutes before Smith was found shot to death inside his SUV on nearby Grove Street, a video showed Keyes and Smith in the vehicle at the Sunshine Supermarket on Cherry Avenue. Another video, this one a household Ring doorbell recorded just a minute or two before the 9:39 p.m. slaying, showed a dark SUV driving east on Grove Street toward what would become a crime scene. Another Ring video, although its timestamp was off, seemed to capture the sounds of a 14-shot fusillade. Friends and family of Smith bowed their heads and shared tissues after that one was played twice in court. Just 32 minutes before the shooting, Smith seemed to be trying to help the man who would become a murder suspect. I got a guy who would work, Smith texted a B.U.C.K. Squad executive at 9:07 p.m. He got his head on right. Over 3.3 million US Hyundai and Kia vehicles are being recalled due to the potential for engine compartment fires. Owners are being instructed to park their cars outdoors. Hyundai's Santa Fe SUV and Kia's Sorrento SUV are just two of the many cars affected by the recalls, which span from 2010 to 2019 model years. Engine Compartment Fire Risk According to a news release published by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on Wednesday, September 27, leaks of fluid and electrical shorts caused by the anti-lock brake control module may start fires when the cars are parked or being driven. Vehicle manufacturers recommend drivers keep their vehicles away from buildings until maintenance can be completed. The anti-lock braking system's fuse may be replaced at no charge by authorized service centers. According to the paperwork, Kia will begin sending out letters to owners on November 14, while Hyundai is on November 21. Reportedly, in the US alone, Hyundai received complaints about 21 car fires and 22 thermal incidents, including smoke, burning, and melted components. Kia recorded ten occurrences of fire or melting. Hyundai issued a statement reassuring customers that their cars are safe to continue driving, as reported by AP News. The carmaker justified the recall as necessary to protect its consumers. According to the manufacturer, an O-ring in the antilock brake motor shaft might develop leaks over time if the braking fluid contains moisture, debris, or dissolved metals. The new fuse regulates the current output of the braking module. Meanwhile, Kia issued a statement saying that an electrical short resulting in a high current might cause a fire in the engine compartment near the brake control unit. There have been no reported accidents or injuries, and the reason for the short circuit is still under investigation. See Also: Nissan Announces Plans to Go Fully Electric in Europe by 2030 Dissatisfaction With Automakers, Regulators Center for Auto Safety director and safety advocate Michael Brooks expressed frustration that the firms had been slow to address the leak issue and to provide letters to affected customers. Even though switching out the fuse fixed the issue, Brooks noted that brake fluid might still leak and pose a safety risk. "What you're not doing here is fixing the O-ring and the leak that's causing the problem in the first place. You're combatting a symptom or part of the problem without actually fixing the underlying design issue." Furthermore, Brooks questioned the NHTSA's decision to allow corporations only to change a fuse and the lack of interim letters given to owners alerting them of the significant danger. It is unclear from the firms' statements what is delaying the repair of the fluid leaks and why it would take around two months to inform owners by letter. NHTSA said manufacturers have discretion over addressing safety issues under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Act. The government has pledged to monitor the progress of the fixes and launch an inquiry if necessary. The agency also noted that although manufacturers have 60 days to send out recall letters, mailings often occur sooner. See Also: GM Recalls Roughly 900 Cars Due to Issue With Takata Air Bag Inflators @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Sex is a very complicated topic, especially for those who are in a new relationship, as well as people who have been together for years but haven't been sexually intimate. Some don't want to do it since they don't want to be seen as an easy-to-get partner. Meanwhile, others are okay with having intercourse with an individual even without a label. Now, science finally provided the best time to have sex with your old-time or new partner. Here's what experts said. Is It Time to Have Sex With Your Partner? Here's What Science Says Business Insider provides the best time to have sex with your partner or just an individual you're starting to date. These two researchers and a study provided their answers: After a Few Weeks Barton Goldsmith, a psychotherapist, said that the best time to have sex with an individual is after three six-hour dates or intimate bonding times. He explained that these hours don't have to be consecutive. Goldsmith added that if the two individuals let this critical time pass, their desire to become sexually intimate would subside. After a Few Months Toni Coleman, another psychotherapist, argued that having sex somewhere within three months of dating is the ideal time. She explained that this phase is the best time to be sexually intimate because both individuals are already thinking more rationally. Coleman specifically mentioned that it would be best to have sex after the so-called honeymoon phase of a relationship. After Getting Married Most parents will encourage their sons and daughters to have sex with their partners after marriage because it is the right thing to do. Although many people no longer believe in this culture, a 2021 study conducted by Cornell and the University of Wisconsin backed it up. Involved researchers said that those who had sex before marriage tend to have bad relationship qualities. Meanwhile, those who do the opposite tend to be more committed, intimate, and satisfied with their partners. Read Also: Why the "No Label Relationship" Never Works When NOT to Have Sex Knowing the best time to have sex can really help your relationship. But, it is also critical to learn when to say "no," even if your partner or potential partner encourages you to do so. According to Healthline, if you think that it's not the right time to be sexually intimate, then that reason is more done enough to avoid it. Specifically, you shouldn't have sex if you are feeling pressured to do it, feel like it's the only option to save a relationship, or if you feel like you owe it to the other person. Experts also reiterated that even when people are in the middle of having sex and the other person suddenly realizes he/she is uncomfortable doing it, then they should definitely stop. In short, having sexual intimacy should have the consent of two sides and both of them should be willing to do it, in their heart and in their mind. Related Article: How to Know If Your Partner is Cheating: Here are the 'Serial Cheater' Signs to Check For @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. (Photo : Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images) The United States has admitted Israel into its Visa Waiver Program (VWP) that allows citizens to travel without having a visa. The United States government on Wednesday announced that it was admitting Israel into the visa waiver program that would allow visa-free entry by citizens from the Middle Eastern country starting on Nov. 30. Admission into the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) is considered to be a major victory for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The decision, which the Middle Eastern country's Foreign Ministry said was expected, comes at a time when relations between the religious-nationalist government and Washington have been strained. Visa Waiver Program This is primarily due to Netanyahu's judiciary overhaul plan and policies that would affect Palestinians. The latter have also staged protests against Israel's entry into the waiver program, arguing that Israel, for decades, has been responsible for discriminating against Arab Americans and harassing them at its borders. On Wednesday, four Democratic U.S. senators, including Chris Van Hollen, said that Israel has failed to meet the requirement of treating all American travelers equally. On the other hand, U.S. Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said that the announcement further "strengthens the security, economic, and people-to-people ties between the U.S. and Israel, as per Reuters. With the admission of Israel into the program, Palestinian-Americans who are living in the West Bank or living in the United States can now enter Israel visa-free. They can also fly in and out of Ben Gurion Airport. Officials from the U.S. said that the decision reduces barriers to travel for these Americans. Prime Minister Netanyahu praised the announcement and called it a "significant and joyous moment for all Israeli citizens." Washington requires countries to meet several requirements for admission to the program that allows visitors to stay up to 90 days without a visa. These include requirements on issues such as counterterrorism, law enforcement, immigration enforcement, document security, and border management. Additionally, they need to treat all U.S. travelers equally, which means that Israel must allow free passage for Palestinian Americans at Ben Gurion airport. Read Also: Why New China Anti-Espionage Law is Concerning for Foreign Businesses, Citizens Israel's Treatment of Palestinians The DHS is the one that manages the VWP, which currently includes 40 different countries. Israel's admission, which officials expected to come before a deadline set on Sept. 30, hinged on its treatment of Palestinian-Americans, according to CNN. Officials claim that those issues have already been settled but a group of 15 Democratic senators urged Secretary of State Antony Blinken earlier this month to not nominate Israel for the program. An administration official said that the Middle Eastern country's designation into the program will help both countries meet key national security goals. The development represents a significant change in Israel's longstanding security paradigm of profiling and restricting the entry of Palestinian, Arab, and Muslim visitors. Such measures were implemented due to airline hijackings five decades ago, ongoing hostilities against Israel in the region, and Israeli efforts to prevent an influx of Palestinians to the Jewish state. The decision also resolves recent concerns, like enforcing stricter rules on granting Israeli passports to new immigrants. This effectively allows the visa-waiver program to prevent an influx of Russians into the U.S., said NPR. Related Article: Statement from the US Department of State Regarding Return of Travis King from North Korea @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. (Photo : Ronald Patrick/Getty Images) Scientists conducted an experiment at CERN and made a key discovery about antimatter, which is that it is affected by gravity in the same way as regular matter. Scientists studying antimatter, which is the opposite of matter, from which stars and planets are made, made a key discovery after finding out that it is also affected by gravity. Antimatter is a mysterious substance that is believed to have been plentiful when the universe began. Both antimatter and matter were created in equal amounts in the Big Bang, which formed our universe. While matter is found to be everywhere, the opposite substance is notoriously difficult to find. Scientists Make Key Discovery About Antimatter The latest study found that the two substances actually respond to gravity in the same way, providing scientists with new information to analyze. Physicists have spent years trying to discover the differences between antimatter and matter as well as their similarities in an effort to explain how the universe came to be. Finding out that antimatter rose in response to gravity, instead of falling, would have blown apart what scientists know about physics. They have been able to confirm for the first time that atoms inside antimatter fall downwards, as per BBC. But instead of being a dead end, the discovery actually provides new opportunities for experiences and theories. Scientists are now asking other questions, such as if antimatter falls at the same speed as matter. At the time when the Big Bang occurred, antimatter and matter should have combined and canceled each other out, leaving nothing but light. However, the fact that this did not happen is one of the great mysteries of physics and uncovering differences between the two substances is key to solving the problem. Matter somehow overcame antimatter in the first moments of creation. A member of the research team at Cern in Switzerland, Dr. Danielle Hodgkinson, said that finding out how antimatter responds to gravity could be the key to figuring this out. Read Also: Sample Capsule of NASA's OSIRIS-REx Mission Arrives in Utah in Fiery Return Falling Just Like Matter Joel Fajans of the University of California, Berkeley, said, "The bottom line is that there's no free lunch, and we're not going to be able to levitate using antimatter." He was part of an international team known as the Antihydrogen Laser Physics Apparatus collaboration, also known as ALPHA, according to the New York Times. It was led by Jeffrey Hangst, who is a particle physicist at Aarhus University in Denmark. Fajans and his colleagues assembled roughly 100 anti-atoms of hydrogen and suspended them in a magnetic field. When this field was slowly reduced, the antihydrogen atoms drifted down like maple leaves fall in October and had the same rate of downward acceleration as regular atoms. Hangst said that half of the universe is missing, referring to how there is almost no antimatter to be found. He added that in principle, we can build a universe with only antimatter and it would work the same way as our current universe. He compared the recent experiment to Galileo's famous 16th-century demonstration that two balls of different mass dropped from the Leaning Tower of Pisa would fall at the same rate. ALPHA constructed a 25-centimeter-long bottle that was placed on its end and had magnets at the top and bottom to conduct the experiment in, said Yahoo News. Related Article: NASA's New UFO Hunter Weapon Unveiled-What Is This Technology? @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Texas Gov. Gregg Abbott belittled the migrant crisis in New York City during his speech on Wednesday, Sept. 27. He claimed that the asylum seeker issue in NYC is calm compared to what Texas is experiencing. Here are other things he said. Texas Governor Belittles NYC Migrant Crisis The Manhattan Institute hosted a conference around the corner from the Roosevelt Hotel, which is the primary entry point for migrants. In this event, Abbott was invited. He talked about how NYC's migrant crisis is still better compared to what Texas has to deal with. "What is going on in New York is calm and organized compared to the real chaos of what we see on the border not every day, but every hour of every day," said the Texas governor. However, his following statements were not focused on the NYC. Instead, he blamed the migrant issues that New York and Texas are experiencing on U.S. President Joe Biden. "The challenge that the city of New York and the state of New York are dealing with is caused by one person: Joe Biden," said Gregg Abbott via Spectrum News. He added that the American leader should not only provide financial assistance to the New York City and NY state but also offer better change in policy. Aside from this, he also argued that "inhumane" is allow a one-year-old child to die in New York because of fentanyl poisoning. After sharing his statements, New York City Mayor Eric Adams and other NYC officials retaliated. Adams' offices claimed that Abbott was just using migrants as his political pawns. NYC officials said that they take pride in providing care and compassion to migrants, which Gregg Abbott lacks. They further stated that if the Texas leader really wants to help in the ongoing asylum seeker issue, he will encourage his Republican colleagues in Congress to work with Joe Biden. Read Also: Allison Riggs Becomes Youngest Woman To Serve on North Carolina's Supreme Court Texas Sends Migrants to NYC The statements coming from Abbott are quite ironic since the Independent UK reported that Texas has been sending migrants from the southern U.S. border to New York, Chicago, and Washington. Abbott recently confirmed that he provided bus tickets to around 42,000 asylum seekers so they can go elsewhere and start their new lives. More than 15,000 of these migrants were sent to New York City in 2022. Meanwhile, the remaining asylum seekers decided to go to other parts of the northeast U.S. Because of this, numerous Democratic officials complained that they couldn't handle the worsening asylum-seeker crisis in their areas. Related Article: California Gov. Newsom Defends Feinstein, Pushes Back Against Calls To Replace Senator @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. (Photo : OLYMPIA DE MAISMONT / AFP) (OLYMPIA DE MAISMONT/AFP via Getty Images) Burkina Faso's military junta claims that its security and intelligence services successfully foiled a coup attempt but did not provide additional information. Burkina Faso junta claims that its security and intelligence services were able to foil an attempted coup but did not provide further details regarding the incident. The announcement on Wednesday had officers and others saying that there was a plot to destabilize the country with "the dark intention of attacking the institutions of the Republic and plunging our country in chaos." Burkina Faso Attempted Coup However, the statement did not identify anyone but noted that officials made some arrests and that searches continued for others. It said that investigations would help identify the supposed plot's instigators. The military prosecutor later said four people had been detained, and two were still on the run. The statement noted that officials opened an investigation on Wednesday based on "credible allegations about a plot against state security implicating officers." On Monday, the military junta announced the suspension of French news magazine Jeune Afrique for publishing what officials called "untruthful" articles. These reported tension and discontent within Burkina Faso's armed forces, as per Reuters. The day after, thousands of pro-junta demonstrators took to the streets of the nation's capital, Ouagadougou, and elsewhere. It was made to show their support, and the situation sparked rumors of a brewing mutiny against the authorities. Burkina Faso's junta came into power after two military coups last year, which were partly triggered by a worsening insurgency by armed groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State. The groups have destabilized the area and its neighbors in West Africa's Sahel region. More than 50 Burkinabe soldiers and volunteer fighters lost their lives during clashes with militants in early September, considered the heaviest losses in months. The military government added that it would work on shedding all "possible light on this plot" and expressed regret for some officers who took part in the attempted coup. Read Also: North Korea Accuses US of Fomenting 'Asian NATO,' Warns UN Assembly of Nuclear War Military Junta's Rule The military prosecutor also revealed that three soldiers were arrested and charged earlier this month for supposedly plotting against the junta government. According to Aljazeera, the leader of the current ruling military forces is Captain Ibrahim Traore. The fighting in Burkina Faso has caused more than two million people to be uprooted, making the conflict one of Africa's worst internal displacement crises. Authorities claimed that almost 192,000 internally displaced people had returned home after government forces successfully retook various regions. The dire situation in Burkina Faso is steadily worsening as the number of people killed by militant Islamist violence has nearly tripled compared to the 18 months before the January 2022 coup. With current trends, an estimated 8,600 people will die due to the violence linked to Islamist groups this year. The rapid surge of fatalities also follows a rise in the lethality of militant Islamist group attacks. Each violent event in 2023 is linked to five fatalities, a dramatic escalation from the previous year, which recorded an average of 2.4 fatalities per violent event, said the Africa Center. Related Article: North Korea Expels Travis King 2 Months After Crossing Peninsula's DMZ, US Officials Say @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. (Photo : JAVIER SORIANO / AFP) (JAVIER SORIANO/AFP via Getty Images) Spanish conservative leader Alberto Nunez Feijoo failed his first bid to become the country's prime minister because he failed to meet the required votes. Spanish conservative leader and the head of the Popular Party, Alberto Nunez Feijoo, lost his first bid to become the country's prime minister when he failed to acquire 176 votes. The development comes after Feijoo's conservative party won the most seats in the July 2023 general election. However, the official has struggled with forming a coalition to form a government as he opposes giving concessions to separatist parties. Spanish Prime Minister Vote Additionally, the conservative leader failed to convince enough lawmakers to support him to win an absolute majority despite several hours of debate that started on Tuesday before the first round of voting on Wednesday. In a statement to lawmakers, Feijoo said nobody knows what will happen to the country if his bid to become prime minister fails. He added that that means, given the nation is a democracy that the government does not hide its deals. He said that they do not even want to talk about them, as per DW News. The conservative leader got 172 votes in his favor with 178 against in the 350-seat parliament. Feijoo will have another chance with a second vote scheduled on Friday. Still, there have been reports that this was an "impossible candidacy," noting that he stood little chance of being chosen as prime minister by lawmakers so that he could lead the nation. The Popular Party currently holds 137 seats and has the support of the far-right Vox's 33 lawmakers and two more from smaller conservative parties that represent Navarra and the Canary Islands. Feijoo's road to power was further complicated by his party's alliance with Vox, which denies climate change and rails against feminism. The latter wants to maintain territorial integrity and recentralize power in the face of separatist movements. Read Also: Nagorno-Karabakh Exodus: Fuel Depot Explodes in Gas Station, At Least 20 Dead Amnesty of Catalan Separatists Spanish King Felipe VI first allowed Feijoo to form a government in August. Should he fail his second try, the current acting prime minister and Spanish Socialist Workers' Party leader, Pedro Sanchez, has two months to undergo a similar two-vote process in a bid for investiture before parliament dissolves on Nov. 27 and elections begin on Jan. 14, according to CNBC. Feijoo's Popular Party received a series of support recently, including at least 40,000 people who took to the streets to protest Sanchez's potential plans to extend amnesty to Catalan separatists. The possible pardon could bring the support of self-exiled former Catalonia leader Carles Puigdemont's Junts per Catalunya. He was pursued in the country after his failed secession attempt six years ago. On Sept. 5, Puigdemont called to "eliminate every judiciary action against the independence of Catalonia. A spokesperson for the Republican Left of Catalonia, Raquel Sans, on Monday urged Sanchez to address the substance of the political conflict between Madrid and Catalonia. While Sanchez has not given a formal statement regarding his stance on a potential amnesty for Catalan separatists, he has said that he wants to continue normalization of relations with the northeast region. It is where tensions have decreased in recent years, said the Associated Press. Related Article: Germany Orders Checks on Borders With Poland, Czech Republic To Address Migrant Surge @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. North Korea's nuclear weapons are expected to increase further as the Asian country adopts a new constitutional amendment. This surprising decision of the NoKor government happened after the UN chief called for immediate efforts to reduce nuclear arsenals. North Korea's Nuclear Weapons to Increase The United Press International reported that the North Korean government adopted an amendment to its constitution on Thursday, Sept. 28. This policy change now considers nuclear weapons enhancements as a basic law of the state. It was passed by the Supreme People's Assembly, which is the country's rubber-stamp parliament. North Korean President Kim Jong Un announced that the nuclear weapons-building policy of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) has been turned into the basic law of the country. The NoKor leader also claimed that there's a need to boost nuclear weapons production, as well as nuclear strike means diversification. "The greatest success we have achieved this year is that we definitely ushered in a heyday of leaps forward in strengthening the national defense capabilities and nuclear war deterrent of the country," said Kim. NDTV reported that the latest constitutional amendment is a sign of North Korea's strong defiance of the United States' requests. Analysts claimed that the sudden announcement of Kim Jong Un coincides with the recent decision made by the North Korean government to expel American soldier Travis King, who previously entered the country without permission. Read Also: Burkina Faso Junta: Military Leaders Claim Security and Intelligence Services Foiled Coup Attempt UN's Recent Warning About Nuclear Apocalypse Before North Korea announced its newly-adopted constitutional amendment, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his concerns regarding the possible nuclear apocalypse. The UN chief shared his warning after North Korea claimed that it was on the brink of a nuclear war. Because of this, he called for immediate actions to reduce nuclear weapons, and eventually eliminate these weapons of mass destruction. "The real only way to prevent the use of nuclear weapons is to eliminate them," said Guterres. He added that when nuclear weapons are used, no matter what the reason is, as well as when and where they are used, this alarming act can lead to a humanitarian catastrophe. The UN leader clarified that what he said was not hyperbole. He explained that the statements he made are the timeless message of those who survived the Nagasaki and Hiroshima bombings; hibakusha. Related Article: North Korea Accuses US of Fomenting 'Asian NATO,' Warns UN Assembly of Nuclear War @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Suzanne Morphew, the mother who went for a bike ride on Mother's Day 2020 and never returned, was discovered dead, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation announced on Wednesday. The recovery of Suzanne Morphew's remains occurred while authorities were investigating a different case in the Moffat region, approximately 40 miles south of the Salida region, where she was reported missing. Remains of Missing Colorado Mom Accidentally Discovered It is the latest development in a conundrum in which prosecutors charged her spouse with murder before dropping the charges. Investigators from Colorado did not specify the location or condition of the human remains and stated that the case is still under investigation. No arrests have been made since the discovery of the evidence. Barry Morphew, 53, was arrested in connection with Suzanne Morphew's homicide, nearly a year after his wife went missing, according to a Chaffee County Sheriff's Office press release. Per USA Today, he was initially accused with first-degree murder and tampering with physical evidence, but the accusations were ultimately withdrawn. In May, Barry Morphew sued prosecutors and investigators for $15 million, alleging that they violated his constitutional rights. Barry's counsel, Iris Eytan, did not respond immediately to a request for comment. Read Also: [UPDATE] Bronx Day Care Death: Husband of Nursery Owner Arrested Following Child's Fentanyl Overdose Case Who is Barry Morphew? In April 2022, prosecutors urged a judge to drop and dismiss the murder charges against her spouse, Barry Morphew, for allegedly killing his wife following her decision to abandon him. Text messages from Suzanne that were made public in June indicate that she was having affairs while still with Barry, as per Fox News. Suzanne wrote the following in a March 7, 2020 text message to Jeff Libler, characterized by the Denver Gazette as a high school crush: "Nobody adores you as much as I do. I yearn for time with you. I desire the sensation I experience when we connect. physically or psychologically. You are my man. Always." Barry's attorney stated at the time that her client "did not know" about Suzanne's "two-year" affair with Libler, whom she claims law enforcement has not "thoroughly investigated." The texts also disclosed Suzanne believed her spouse was having an affair in an April 24, 2020, text to Barry. Suzanne texted Barry in March 2020 that they needed to "figure this out civilly." On May 2 of this year, Barry filed a lawsuit against prosecutors, with his attorneys arguing that he "suffered the indignity of being wrongfully detained, jailed, and prosecuted for an offense he did not commit." Linda Stanley, 11th Judicial District Attorney, said that "the potential filing of a complaint against an attorney is not the same as the attorney engaging in misconduct" and that "anyone can file a complaint against a lawyer with the Office of Attorney Regulation Counsel." Related Article: Baltimore Tech CEO Murder: Police Conducting Manhunt for 'Extremely Dangerous' Convict @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. (Photo : SAM YEH/AFP via Getty Images) Taiwan's first locally built submarine "Narwhal" is seen during unveiling ceremony at the CSBC Corporation shipbuilding company in Kaohsiung on September 28, 2023. Taiwan unveiled its first domestically developed submarine on Thursday, marking a significant step in a project intended at bolstering the island's defense and deterrence against the Chinese navy. However, the submarine will not enter service for another two years. Taiwan's First Domestic Submarine Haikun Taiwan, which China claims as its own territory, has made the indigenous submarine program a critical component of an ambitious project to modernize its armed forces, while Beijing conducts nearly daily military exercises to assert its sovereignty, as per Reuters. On Thursday, in the southern city of Kaohsiung, President Tsai Ing-wen, who initiated the plan upon her 2016 inauguration, displayed the first of eight new submarines. President Tsai Ing-wen launched the vessel - named Haikun, which means "mythical sea creature" - into the harbor of Kaohsiung, Taiwan's southern port city, where seaworthiness testing will be conducted in the coming weeks. If everything proceeds according to plan, the first submarine should be available for delivery by the end of 2024, and the second is scheduled to be completed by 2027. The first submarine came with a hefty price tag of $1.54 billion, but for Taiwan's government, defending the island and its outlying territories against China's navy is worth the expense. The submarines could keep China's navy from encircling Taiwan and cutting the island off from outside resources, a move China would be anticipated to make if it were to attack or invade the island. The Taiwanese government stated that the submarines could prevent China from circumventing the First Island Chain, an imaginary defensive line connecting Taiwan, Japan, the Philippines, and Indonesia. The submarines are a component of Taiwan's comprehensive deterrence strategy. Taiwan's goal is to make an assault so costly that it would not be viable, despite the fact that its military is considerably smaller than China's. The government intends to construct eight diesel-powered submarines to augment Taiwan's extant fleet of two 1980s-era Dutch models and a World War II-era US training submarine. Read Also: North Korea Accuses US of Fomenting 'Asian NATO,' Warns UN Assembly of Nuclear War More Submarines to Come According to Aljazeera, the new models will be equipped with a Lockheed Martin Corp combat system and MK-48 heavyweight torpedoes manufactured in the United States. Another one is in production at present. Taiwan intends to ultimately operate a fleet of ten submarines, including two older vessels manufactured in the Netherlands, and arm them with missiles. Admiral Huang Shu-kuang, chief of the domestic submarine program, told reporters last week that the objective was to thwart any attempt by China to encircle Taiwan for an invasion or impose a naval blockade. Shu-kuang added that it would also purchase time until US and Japanese forces arrived to assist Taiwan's defense. Taiwan's leaders have long prioritized the construction of their own submarines, but the program has accelerated under Tsai, who has increased military expenditures to nearly double its budget during her tenure. China has not yet officially responded. However, in an article published earlier this week, Taiwan was described as "daydreaming" and the plan as "an illusion" by the state-run Global Times. It also asserted that China's military had erected a multidimensional anti-submarine network around the island. Taiwan's fleet of ten submarines pales in comparison to China's, which reportedly consists of more than 60 vessels, including nuclear-powered assault submarines, and is growing. However, the island has long pursued an asymmetric warfare strategy in which it seeks to construct a more nimble defense force to combat a larger and better-resourced foe, BBC reported. The submarines could "help Taiwan's relatively small navy take the initiative against China's mighty navy" by conducting "guerrilla-style warfare with their stealth, lethality, and surprise capabilities," according to William Chung, a Taiwanese military researcher at the Institute of National Defense and Security Research. Specifically, they could help defend the straits and channels that connect the so-called "first island chain," a network of islands that includes Taiwan, the Philippines, and Japan and is viewed as a potential battlefront in the event of a conflict with China. Related Article: Ukraine Unveils 'Invisible' Underwater Kamikaze Stealth Drone Capable of Carrying Massive Explosives @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Charlottesville Police are asking for assistance in its investigation of a stabbing that they say occurred in or around Market Street Park early Sunday morning. But more than five people who sleep in the park told The Daily Progress they had not heard or seen anything that would indicate someone was stabbed in the area. Nobody here got stabbed. Nobody here stabbed anyone, Roscoe Boxley told The Daily Progress. Whatever incident happened was happening somewhere down the street on the other side of The Haven. It had nothing to do with the park. Boxley was not in the park on Sunday morning when the alleged crime took place between 1:30 and 3:30 a.m. But multiple people who were there at the time said that while they often hear noises at night, they did not hear anyone screaming and did not see any blood. In a Wednesday press release, police say officers were dispatched to UVa Medical Center after a report of a victim who had suffered several stab wounds. A person at the UVa Medical Center would not divulge to The Daily Progress whether anyone was admitted to the hospital with stab wounds on Sunday. According to the press release, the stabbing occurred in or around Market Street Park. At a Thursday press conference, police chief Michael Kochis explained that was the location given by the victim. When we went to the hospital thats what we were told from the person because he was kind of out of it, Kochis said, adding that police do not know exactly where the incident occurred. Thats why were asking the public who was there, just like we would if there was a stabbing in Belmont on West Haven, Kochis said. Police wrote in the press release that the unnamed victim is in stable condition and that they do not believe the attack was random. A security camera attached to a light pole at the intersection of 2nd Street and East Market Street may help authorities learn more. This park has been raided multiple times for less, Boxley said, noting that no police raid occurred after the reported stabbing. He went as far as to call allegations of a stabbing at the park a total lie. Market Street Park has become the center of controversy for the citys homelessness crisis after City Manager Sam Sanders recent decision to lift the curfew at the park, thus allowing people to spend the night there. Multiple tents have been erected in the park by homeless people since the decision. Sanders made the move after hearing allegations that police kicked a sleeping homeless man while enforcing the curfew. Police have asked anyone with information about the stabbing to contact the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at (434) 977-4000. The beer Ultra Right, created as a "woke-free" Bud Light substitute, made half a million dollars in just 12 hours after releasing a limited-edition can with the iconic mugshot of the late President Trump. Trump was indicted in Georgia on 13 counts relating to alleged attempts to tamper with the outcome of the state's 2020 presidential election, and as a result, the first-ever mugshot of a former president was taken of him in August. Trump's mugshot became viral shortly after Seth Weathers, the CEO of Conservative Dad's Ultra Right Beer, reacted by releasing a limited-edition collector's can in response to the accusations made against the former President, who is running for re-election in 2024, as reported by Fox News. The Most Sought-After Collector Beer Can in American History In what the merchant referred to as "the most sought-after collector beer can in American history," Weathers said that the beer sales were comparable to more than five tractor-loads of cans. Ten percent of the proceeds from the Trump-themed beer will be donated to the David Shafer Legal Defense Fund and the Georgia Republican Party's legal defense. Since its April launch in response to the boycott of Bud Light due to its use of a transgender influencer in its marketing campaign, Ultra Right has gained popularity among beer drinkers and surpassed a million dollars in sales in just two weeks. The partnership between Bud Light and transgender celebrity Dylan Mulvaney led to his decision to introduce the beer, according to The Daily Mail. Brewer Anheuser-Busch has since been charged with interfering in one of the nation's most contentious culture war issues. Since then, Anheuser-Busch's market value has fallen by more than $27 billion, and two of its senior executives have taken "leave of absences." The deal infuriated liberals who claimed the corporation did not show support for Mulvaney while also upsetting conservative drinkers who were ready to boycott the brand. Mulvaney finally spoke up about the incident earlier this year and berated the beleaguered company for failing to support her. Read also: Bud Light: Microsoft Invests $95 Million in Anheuser-Busch Stock Fighting Back With Their Wallet Before creating "Ultra Right" beer earlier this year after Bud Light came under fire from some conservative commentators and customers, the 38-year-old former political consultant already had an online business selling products targeted at a conservative clientele, including "Let's go Brandon" merchandise (that political slogan and internet meme is used to insult Biden). Weathers has attributed the company's success to individuals "fighting back with their wallet" and has clarified that a portion of the sales will help fund the customers' priorities. Related article: Trump Mugshot Featured on Conservative Dad's Ultra Right Beer; Profits Go to Georgia Republican Party @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. X CEO Linda Yaccarino refuted Elon Musk's claims that the platform's election monitoring team had been fired at a conference on Wednesday. Yaccarino said that the staff is "growing" and will keep an eye out for political misinformation on the site. Musk tweeted on Wednesday that the X, formerly Twitter, election team had been dissolved. "X has reportedly cut half off of its Electoral integrity team, including the group's head," wrote the X News Daily account in response to a tweet from Musk. Musk wrote: "Oh you mean the "Election Integrity" Team that was undermining election integrity? Yeah, they're gone," as reported by Gizmodo. The election integrity team was still in place, according to Yaccarino, who spoke out just hours after the article went public. However, she did not dispute reports that X had fired certain team members. The Information, citing three people familiar with the situation, originally reported that X purportedly slashed in half the number of employees responsible for spotting election fraud and misinformation on the site. According to the publication, the layoffs were allegedly made on Friday, informing personnel that having a global team is not required. Aaron Rodericks, the team's worldwide head and an Irish citizen, was one of those let go. The objective, according to Yaccarino, is "to focus on combating things like manipulation, surfacing of inauthentic accounts, and closely monitoring the platform for any emerging threats." On Wednesday, Yaccarino said that X was expanding, rather than disbanding, its global safety and election teams. In advance of the 2024 U.S. presidential election, Musk stopped the platform's user-reporting feature, which is the cause of the disagreement between the two X chiefs. According to a European Commission study, the corporation has been accused of using its platform to propagate false information and online hate, with Russian misinformation about the Ukraine War reaching 165 million people in the EU. Read also: Will Elon Musk's Planned X Monthly Fees Charge All Users? Here's What Billionaire Explained Misinformation on X Misinformation, defined as the spread of false or misleading information with the intent to deceive, has become an increasingly prevalent concern across social media and online platforms. X, which boasts millions of active users, is no exception to this phenomenon. Recent reports indicate that the platform has been grappling with a surge in false and misleading content, spanning a wide range of topics from health misinformation to political disinformation. Such content not only erodes trust but also poses significant risks to public safety, health, and informed decision-making. X has, in response, undertaken several measures to address this critical issue. The platform has introduced algorithms and artificial intelligence tools designed to identify and flag potential misinformation. It has also partnered with fact-checking organizations to verify the accuracy of information shared on its platform. However, the battle against misinformation remains an ongoing challenge. Misleading content often evolves and adapts, making it difficult for automated systems to detect and mitigate. Furthermore, the delicate balance between free speech and the suppression of misinformation presents a continuous ethical dilemma for platform administrators. In the wake of mounting scrutiny and public concern, Platform X continues to refine its strategies for combating misinformation. While progress has been made, the road ahead remains arduous. The platform acknowledges the gravity of the situation and remains committed to collaborating with experts, users, and regulatory bodies to ensure a safer and more accurate digital environment for all. As misinformation continues to permeate our digital landscape, the efforts of platforms like X in addressing this complex issue will be closely watched and evaluated. Stay tuned for further developments in this ongoing battle against misinformation. Related article: EU Accuses Elon Musk's X of Allowing Russian Disinformation in Platform @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The family of British actor Sir Michael Gambon, known for his portrayal of Albus Dumbledore in the movie adaptations of JK Rowling's Harry Potter series, has announced his death Thursday (September 28) at the age of 82. The BBC reported that the four-time BAFTA award-winning actor has worked on TV, film, theater, and radio for over six decades. According to his publicist, Clair Dobbs, Gambon died "peacefully in hospital" following a bout of pneumonia with his wife Anne and son Fergus. Dobbs added that the family appreciates the messages of condolences from everyone who appreciated him and asked the public to respect their privacy. Aside from his current family, he was also survived by two more sons he shared with set designer Philippa Hart. Read Also: 'Harry Potter' Publishing CEO Adrienne Vaughan Dies in 'Horror' Speed Boat Accident in Italy About Michael Gambon Gambon was born in Dublin in 1940 and made his first acting stint in the local production of Shakespeare's play "Othello" in 1962. However, his big break happened when he became one of the original members of Laurence Olivier's National Theatre acting company in London and eventually won three Olivier awards for performances in National Theatre productions. His most memorable role was when he replaced Richard Harris as Dumbledore in the Harry Potter series after Harris died in 2003. His Hogwarts colleague Fiona Shaw, who played Petunia Dursley in the films, previously told the BBC Gambon was a "brilliant, magnificent trickster" of an actor. Aside from the Hogwarts franchise, he also played the role of King George V in "The King's Speech." Gambon was also nominated for a Tony for a role in the David Hare play Skylight. Despite the fame, Gambon was a man who would rather avoid the limelight outside his job, the BBC added. Related Article: Stephen Fry Claims AI Steals His Voice From 'Harry Potter' Audiobooks, Says Deepfake Celebrity Videos Will Be Next @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Police in the Netherlands have arrested a 32-year-old male student after he shot and killed two people and seriously injured a 14-year-old girl Thursday (September 28). The shooting occurred at the Erasmus Medical Center in downtown Rotterdam, prompting patients and medics to flee the hospital or barricade themselves inside their rooms. Police Chief Fred Westerbeke told reporters that he wore a bulletproof vest and the motive for the shooting was still under investigation. The shooter's identity has not been released, the Associated Press reported. Read Also: LAPD Says 2 Men Shot in Altercation in East Hollywood Shooting Happened on Two Locations, Police Say According to Westerbeke, the shooter first shot and killed a 39-year-old woman while seriously injuring her 14-year-old daughter at an apartment near where the suspect lived. He then went to the hospital, where he shot and killed a 46-year-old male medical instructor at the academic hospital. He also started fires on both shooting scenes, which have since been put out. Dutch King Willem-Alexander and his wife, Queen Maxima, have sent their condolences to those affected by the shootings. The Erasmus Medical Center earlier told visitors to avoid the hospital due to the shootings, but has since told the public they were reopening and resuming operations. Rotterdam has been plagued with several incidents of shootings and small explosions this year, which were blamed on rival drug gangs, but there was no immediate suggestion Thursday's shooting was linked to drug gang violence. This is a developing story. Please follow HNGN for more updates. Related Article: Netherlands Seizes Cocaine Haul Worth 600 Million Euros, Setting New Record @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Hotel Dena, Pasadena Los Angeles, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel has officially opened its doors. The 311-room hotel is designed for those with an imaginative spirit, featuring touchpoints of art, dance, music, and culture. The hotel is ideally located in the heart of downtown Pasadena's creative scene, just steps from iconic institutions like the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, Pasadena Convention Center, and Old Town Pasadena, and it is only 20 minutes from the Hollywood Burbank Airport. Hotel Dena is part of the Tribute Portfolio - part of Marriott Bonvoy's global portfolio of 31 extraordinary hotel brands - and aims to attract travelers looking for fresh experiences that reflect their own individuality. Owned by Monarch Alternative Capital and managed by HHM Hotels, Hotel Dena is a part of HHM's Independent Collection, a selection of lifestyle hotels that are connected to local communities and offer personalized service. Dash Design was tapped to oversee the interior design and art curation for Hotel Dena. WRDSMITH, an LA-based street artist who utilizes colorful and mindfully chosen words to inspire others, created a lobby mural and signature guest room art. Large-scale outdoor murals featuring music and dance were hand-painted by artists Ian Schuler and Leah Tumerman. Artist Kate Neckel developed Pasadena-inspired wall coverings for each corridor of the property, and wooden sound wave art in the lobby area by artist Erin Harris captures Van Halen's hit song 'Jump.' The hotel's modern and vibrant guest rooms offer both a relaxing respite and an energizing homebase, with a variety of categories including King and Queen rooms, Studios, and Suites. Specialty suites include the Screenwriter's Suite, Director's Suite, and Dena Suite each boasting 600 to 650 square-feet, a king bed with a lush pillow-top mattress, a sofa bed, a writing/work desk, and more. All accommodations feature Blind Barber bath amenities, a company that values the benefits of community, inclusivity, and confidence. If a guest is a content creator or a business professional in need of appropriate lighting and sound for capturing their best self on camera, Hotel Dena offers Broadcast Kits that include ring lights from Lume Cube and microphones. Kits are complimentary to borrow, based on availability. Hotel Dena's guests can start their day at Lyric, which offers inventive breakfast and lunch options daily from 6:30 AM to 3:00 PM. The inspiration for the delectable menu is derived from the lyrical genius of musicians and poets, paying homage to the rebellious spirit of rock and roll, alternative vibes, and hip-hop beats. Boasting a vast vinyl record collection and musically charged art and design, Lyric creates an environment that allows guests to fuel up while grooving to morning sounds of renowned artists. The 44-seat venue also offers a pet-friendly poolside patio, where guests can soak up the California sun. Starting this fall, fur-family members can indulge in the exclusive "Let the Dogs Out" menu of puppucinos and break-ruff bowls. As the sun sets, Hotel Dena's bespoke bar and lounge, Agents Only, comes to life, delivering an electrifying experience that stirs up the seduction of fame. This 42-seat haunt is the perfect place for guests to let loose and embrace their inner spark, surrounded by a vintage TV art installation by Media Pollution and a captivating speaker wall. A plethora of mesmerizing weekly live performances will keep guests on the edge of their seats, ranging from experimental beats and open mics to stand-up comedy and karaoke. Agents Only features attention-seeking cocktails crafted by Liquid Productions, a full-service beverage agency, and flavor-forward dishes are available daily from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM. A daily "Casting Call" happy hour is available from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. Hotel Dena offers over 29,000 square feet of versatile event and meeting space that includes a ballroom, a boardroom, and several outdoor options. The hotel's boundary-pushing catering menus are a daring fusion of innovative dishes and classic cuisine that leave a lasting impression. Also available for guests is a retro-inspired screening area that seats 15. This public lounge showcases vintage theatre seating, cinema-inspired art, a display stack of vintage projectors, and an exposed brick wall. The boutique property spotlights the best of Pasadena's sunny lifestyle with its vibrant amenities. An outdoor heated pool offers poolside loungers, floaties and a poolside menu. The pool will feature highly sought-after ongoing programming, including a poolside DJ on Saturdays and wellness experiences like The Bar Method and Mimosas, launching this fall. The barre classes and tasty bubbles are complimentary for hotel guests and $20 for the local community. Hotel Dena also offers a 24/7 on-site fitness center featuring cardio and weight-training equipment. Electric car charging services and parking are also available. Take One is Hotel Dena's seamless, self-serve market curated with refreshments and on-the-go bites, available to guests 24/7. The hotel welcomes dogs that are 40 pounds and under, for an additional fee of $35 per night per room, with a maximum of two dogs per room. As part of the hotel's grand opening, the "Broadcast Me" package is available until December 30, 2023 and includes use of a Lume Cube Cordless Ring Light, welcome cocktails and mocktails for up to two guests, a $30 daily food and beverage credit, 5,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points, and a personalized gift. Hotel Dena celebrates the thriving arts scene in Pasadena and allows guests the opportunity to take center stage and soar. The hotel is located at 303 Cordova Street, Pasadena, CA 91101. Hotel Dena, Pasadena Los Angeles, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel will participate in Marriott Bonvoy - the award-winning travel program from Marriott International - allowing members to earn and redeem points for their stay at the new hotel, and at other hotels and resorts across Marriott Bonvoy's extraordinary portfolio of brands. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and a contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. For more information, please visit www.hoteldena.com Hotel website Minor Hotels, a hotel owner, operator, and investor, currently with a portfolio of 530 hotels and resorts in 56 countries across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Indian Ocean, announces the upcoming opening of a new ultra-private luxury resort in the United Arab Emirates. The 22-key Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat is set to launch in Q4 2023 and will provide a unique boutique escape from the city, including the option for exclusive use buy-outs. This sophisticated new addition to Anantara's growing Middle East portfolio is located in Ghantoot, an unspoilt enclave of coast approximately halfway between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Offering uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf, away from the towering skylines of the cities in either direction, Anantara Santorini is a 25-minute drive from Dubai's Al Maktoum International Airport and 35-minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport. Created to reflect the iconic buildings of its namesake island, the low-lying white buildings of Anantara Santorini blend gently with the surrounding landscape and house a collection of ultra-private accommodation offering spacious interiors with ample sun-drenched terraces and unspoiled sea views. The luxurious spaces have a refined decor with soft, neutral furnishings, which continue throughout the resort. Guests will find relaxing moments on the resort's private beach, an expansive outdoor pool that overlooks the Gulf, while the indoor cinema provides private screenings on demand with the option of late-night movies with custom gourmet cuisine. Bespoke spa treatments will be able to be enjoyed in private beachside cabanas and 24-hour butler service will ensure guests' needs are fulfilled around the clock. The culinary experiences on offer at Anantara Santorini will include an elegant restaurant dedicated to the heritage of the region, where local ingredients and spices are brought to the fore, plus in-keeping with the property, an ocean-side restaurant will serve delicacies from Greece. Evenings can be enjoyed at the bar where beverages and creative cocktails will be served until late, with a DJ creating an ambient mood. With this upcoming opening in the United Arab Emirates, Minor Hotels continues its expansion in the Middle East, currently with eight Anantara hotels and resorts in the UAE and a total of 11 in the region, and the group's portfolio totalling 26 properties across five different brands. In addition Minor Hotels has a strong pipeline across multiple brands including future properties in the UAE, Qatar and upcoming debuts in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. Hotel website Sunridge Hotel Group, an award-winning hotel owner and operator based in Mesa, Arizona, today announced the opening of the 146-suite Residence Inn by Marriott Vail. Located at 1783 N. Frontage Road West, the all-suite property is owned by Vail Hospitality Group, LLC and managed by Sunridge Hotel Group. General Manager Jeff Cote leads the management team at the Residence Inn by Marriott Vail for Sunridge Hotel Group. Residence Inn by Marriott Vail is located five minutes from downtown Vail and Lionshead Village, offering numerous shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as an ice-skating rink. The four-story idyllic hotel offers guests convenient access to Vail Village, Vail Ski Resort, Gore Creek, the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, and year-round recreation at White River National Forest. Onsite amenities at the pet-friendly hotel include a well-equipped fitness center, 850 square feet of functional meeting space, an over-sized hot tub on a heated deck, an outdoor patio with a fire pit and barbecue grills and a viewing deck with mountain views. The lobby features a full-service bar that serves wine, beer, cocktails as well as light-fare and is the perfect place for socializing, relaxing and indulging, guests will also enjoy the hotel's grocery delivery service, 24-hour onsite food and beverage market and dry-cleaning services. Hotel website The Raleigh City Council voted today to direct the City of Raleigh staff to enter into negotiations with Omni Hotels & Resorts, in partnership with Preston Hollow Community Capital and Provident Resources Group, to develop the highly anticipated convention hotel in the core of downtown Raleigh. The dynamic addition to the Raleigh skyline will be built on an over one-acre lot across from the Raleigh Convention Center and Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts at the end of Fayetteville Street. Expected to open in 2027, the Omni Raleigh Hotel will be a great addition to Omni's growing portfolio of over 50 luxury hotels. This will be the third Omni property in the state of North Carolina and the first for the capital city. The Omni Raleigh Hotel is anticipated to include 550 guest rooms and 55,000 square feet of meeting space, which will allow for larger events to take place downtown and support the growth of the Raleigh Convention Center expansion. The hotel will also feature several food and beverage outlets, a rooftop pool, a signature Mokara spa and a fitness center. Hotel website Jumeirah Group has appointed Joanne Behrens as senior vice president of architecture and spatial design. The appointment is designed to evolve the Jumeirah brand with a guest-centric design approach, blending creativity, lifestyle and local elements across its physical spaces. With almost two decades of architectural and design expertise in the luxury hospitality sector, Behrens brings an impressive track record, having collaborated with world-renowned designers and artists to conceive and deliver distinctive designs, fashioning the guest experience with captivating and unique spaces. Behrens has held senior positions with renowned luxury brands, including most recently Rosewood Hotel Group, where she was vice president of design and project services for the Americas. Behrens will work closely with Jumeirah Group's Sustainability Committee to uphold sustainable and inclusive design practices across its portfolio. With capital assigned to grow its portfolio globally, as well as refine its existing properties, Behrens will play a key role in elevating Jumeirah's brand vision across all new projects, renovations, and conversions, including Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Dubai, Jumeirah Le Richemond Geneva, and Jumeirah Red Sea. Abu Dhabi, UAE - The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced a partnership with Erth Hospitality to launch Ecole Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio, the regions first institute by Ecole Ducasse whose founder is Chef Alain Ducasse, this coming December. Under the influence of this culinary icon, the studio will be located in the heart of the city at Abu Dhabis Cultural Foundation and is set to enrich the culinary education landscape in the UAE. Short and professional classes will be taught in a contemporary and friendly space, with easy-to-use professional equipment. With a small group of students per class, allowing for 1-1 attention, this studio will be an ideal environment to help clients and learners enhance their talent, while offering a gourmet cafe and welcoming corporate events. Ecole Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio will offer exceptional classes and courses for all abilities, from aspiring culinary enthusiasts to talents looking to broaden their skill sets. These include the Culinary Arts and Pastry programmes which will provide the opportunity to discover the fundamentals of French and international cuisine as well as the Ducasse philosophy. These programs themes will range from First cooking lesson learning to cook without inhibition, Cooking for a special event, Do it like a Chef Cuisine 3*, healthy Cooking, Kids and Teens in the kitchen, Mediterranean Cuisine to the Famous Parisian Macarons Madness Class. Located within the historic Al Hosn site, Ecole Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio is a meticulously designed, 418 square metre space. The studio boasts a generous classroom area, a fully equipped workshop show kitchen, a bespoke Chefs table and a large outdoor terrace with views of the Abu Dhabi skyline. The expansion of Abu Dhabis thriving vibrant culinary landscape is part of our commitment to fostering and encouraging cultural expression in the emirate. The arrival of Ecole Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio in the UAE capital will transform the culinary sector while greatly contributing to the growth of the hospitality industry in the region. By nurturing local talent and fostering creativity and innovation, we aspire to create a lasting impact on the culinary scene in Abu Dhabi and beyond. His Excellency Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi The announcement follows the launch of an AED 360 million culinary sector acceleration programme earlier this year, which aims to attract leading brands to the UAE capital over five years and bolster Abu Dhabi's development as a gastronomical hub. Erth Hospitality will serve as the partner of the renowned culinary school Ecole Ducasse, bringing over 25 years of expertise and passion for the hospitality industry to this exciting venture. In unveiling this transformative partnership, Shaikha Al Kaabi, Chief Executive Officer of Erth Hospitality, underlines its profound significance for the region of Abu Dhabi and highlights Erth Hospitalitys pivotal role in bringing Ecole Ducasse to the Emirates. She articulated: Ecole Ducasse stands as a beacon of global culinary excellence, and its arrival in Abu Dhabi signifies a momentous milestone. This collaboration not only solidifies our commitment to fostering culinary brilliance but also reaffirms Abu Dhabis status as a burgeoning culinary hub, ready to host and inspire talents from Emiratis and beyond. Erth Hospitality is proud to spearhead this endeavour, bridging the gap between tradition and innovation, and ensuring that Ecole Ducasses world-class philosophy and expertise are woven into the fabric of our regions culinary identity. Together, we shall lay the foundations for the continuous growth and evolution of culinary arts, nurturing local, regional and international talents alike. Alain Ducasse has an impressive 20 Michelin stars to his name, making him Michelin's most decorated chef of all time. He launched his first culinary and pastry school in 1999 and has since established globally recognised institutes in India, the Philippines and Thailand. The launch of Ecole Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio in partnership with Erth Hospitality is a significant milestone, as the emirate welcomes an institution dedicated to gastronomic innovation and excellence, elevating the local culinary scene. The launch of Ecole Ducasse Studio in partnership with Erth Hospitality in Abu Dhabi is a great milestone for us in the Middle East region, and we are very happy to contribute to enriching the local gastronomic scene and encouraging culinary talents to flourish. Elise Masurel Ecole Ducasse Managing Director Through its unique and personalised cooking classes, and its cafe and corporate events offer, Ecole Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio will promote culinary excellence, innovation, and cultural exchange in Abu Dhabi, an emirate that boasts a diverse population of over 200 nationalities. As a melting pot of cultures, Abu Dhabi provides an ideal home for the institute, welcoming talents from around the world and fostering a nurturing environment for creativity and the space to develop new culinary trends. About the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi The Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabis culture and tourism sectors, fuelling economic progress and helping to achieve Abu Dhabis wider global ambitions. By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirates position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirates potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture, tourism and creative industries. DCT Abu Dhabis vision is defined by the emirates people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabis status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought. For more information about the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi and the destination, please visit: dctabudhabi.ae and visitabudhabi.ae. About Ecole Ducasse Ecole Ducasse is a network of schools founded in 1999 by multi-starred chef Alain Ducasse, dedicated to the transmission of outstanding French expertise and excellence in culinary and pastry arts. Ecole Ducasse runs three schools in France Paris Studio, Paris Campus and Ecole Nationale Superieure de Patisserie as well as international schools with Manila Campus in the Philippines, Gurugram Campus in India and Nai Lert Bangkok Studio in Thailand. All are united by a desire to share a passion for gastronomy with seasoned professionals as well as food enthusiasts, career changers and students. This broad portfolio of programs aims to meet all training needs: from short programs for experts or food enthusiasts to intensive two, four-or six-month programs, to three-year undergraduate programs and bachelors degree in culinary and pastry arts. Ecole Ducasse is part of Sommet Education, worldwide leader in hospitality education. For more information: https://www.ecoleducasse.com/en. About Erth Hospitality From the beating heart of Abu Dhabi, Erth glows as a beacon of Emirati hospitality, as its ancient and distinguished history flows beautifully for more than 25 years in the world of hospitality and culinary arts. Erth is characterized by an exceptional vision, as it works to embody creativity and excellence in the various talents it offers to renew the spirit of innovation that inhabits it, as they were not just small details in its journey, but rather were the basic elements that deeply rooted it in every stage of its continuous development, in addition to its constant keenness to preserving the rich traditions of our Emirates ancient heritage. For more information: https://erth.ae/hospitality. Anouck Weiss Chief Communication Officer Sommet Education Sommet Education View source Shanghai Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, a part of IHG Hotels & Resorts(IHG), is launching a groundbreaking MEETINGS WITHOUT BOUNDARIES, a concept for the Greater China market, capitalizing on the rising demand for domestic cultural tourism and BLEISURE travel. Leveraging the groups advantages and expertise in experiences and destinations, MEETINGS WITHOUT BOUNDARIES satisfies the needs of the modern business traveler that seeks a quality lifestyle and cutting-edge innovation. The flexible gathering experience incorporates elements such as warm ambiances and health & safety considerations into a space designed to facilitate socializing, giving a fresh perspective to the traditional conference. Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts is further extending its presence into the primary economic centers of the market, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, as well as emerging destinations and high-tech zones in cities such as Hangzhou, Xiamen, Chengdu, and Qingdao. Crowne Plaza Launches MEETINGS WITHOUT BOUNDARIES KV Source: IHG As a premium brand for the modern business traveler within IHG, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts has established a strong presence in the Chinese market for many years. This concept of MEETINGS WITHOUT BOUNDARIES reflects our extensive local insights and commitment to delivering innovative experiences that satisfy the needs of the modern business traveler. In response to current and future trends, this new gathering concept redefines the synergy between business and leisure. Each journey goes beyond a mere experience. We offer guests with a dynamic space by comprehensive personalized services, effortlessly merging business with leisure to forge a distinctive voyage. Florence Hu, Chief Marketing Officer, IHG Greater China Spaces Without Boundaries: Enabling Flexible Business Travel Experiences Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts is committed to Making Business Travel Work enabling an elevated meeting experience that breaks free from the traditional MICE halls. Its New Modern design style prioritizes flexibility, social connectivity, wellbeing, and dynamic mobility in every aspect. Tailored for hybrid work, the design caters to professional productivity, personal restoration, and inspiration with a sense of comfort and warmth. And also sets a new benchmark for meetings and events. Crowne Plaza Xiamen Jimei Seaview Photo by IHG Crowne Plaza Hangzhou Riverside Photo by IHG Crowne Plaza Tianjin Meijiangnan Photo by IHG The MEETINGS WITHOUT BOUNDARIES targets Chinas most vibrant business hubs, like the Crowne Plaza Xiamen Jimei Seaview, which offers meticulously designed office environments along the Xiamen seaside. The Crowne Plaza Hangzhou Riverside, strategically located near the Hangzhou International Expo Center and Qiantang River, has over 2,500 square meters of versatile meeting space. Meanwhile, the Crowne Plaza Tianjin Meijiangnan enjoys a unique advantage in resources and location, as it sits near Tianjin Meijiang Convention and Exhibition Centre, Tianjin Municipal Peoples Government, and the Xiqing Economic Development Zone. This year, the hotel hosted the World Economic Forums 14th Annual Meeting of the New Champions 2023. Its event team ensured a seamless conference experience for the over 1,500 attendees, catering to the personal needs of delegates from nearly 100 countries. Crowne Plaza Shennongjia Photo by IHG Experiences Without Boundaries: Unlocking Versatile Gatherings Whether savoring diverse cuisines, exploring local culture, or enjoying activities Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts offers travelers limitless possibilities during their stay, enhancing their connection to the destination. At Crowne Plaza Shennongjia, nestled deep in mountainous forests, a hike in the wilderness allows for a new way to engage in both teams building and the natural environment. Alternatively, at the picturesque Crowne Plaza Chongli Resort in Zhangjiakou, the snowy vistas add a touch of romance, whether guests choose to ski with loved ones or savor the peaceful landscape, guaranteeing unforgettable memories will be made. Destinations Without Boundaries: The Ideal Choice for Business Travelers At present, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts has over 180 hotels and resorts operating and in development across the Greater China, spanning economic centers like the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, the Yangtze River Delta, and the Greater Bay Area, as well as emerging destinations in second- and third-tier cities celebrated for their cultural richness and scenic beauty. Further expanding its footprint, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts delves into urban high-tech zones, capitalizing on the synergy local allure with regions known for innovation and commerce, setting the stage in locales such as Jiaxing and Qingdao. Crowne Plaza Wuzhen Photo by IHG Conveniently near World Internet Conference Center Commute, Crowne Plaza Wuzhen boasts a prime location with easy access to public transport and a high-speed railway station, as well as 800 square meters of flexible meeting space. In the coastal hub of Qingdao, the Crowne Plaza Qingdao Jinshui features 2,000 square meters of flexible event space and 11 meeting rooms, including a 1,000-square meter ballroom that can accommodate over 650 people. Whether attending conferences, exhibitions, or seeking investment opportunity, these hotels and their expert meetings teams can create the ultimate meeting and reception experiences. Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts currently operates 115 hotels and has 72 in the pipeline in the Greater China. Newly opened properties include Crowne Plaza Ganzhou, Crowne Plaza Jiangmen Binjiang in the Greater Bay Area, and Crowne Plaza Jinan Runhua, strategically located next to the Shandong International Convention and Exhibition Center and commercial business district. Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts will continue to expand its presence across popular cities and destinations, offering guests an integrated experience that emerging the boundaries between business and leisure. About IHG IHG Hotels & Resorts [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] is a global hospitality company, with a purpose to provide True Hospitality for Good. With a family of 17 hotel brands and IHG Rewards, one of the world's largest hotel loyalty programmes, IHG has over 6,000 open hotels in more than 100 countries, and a further 1,800 in the development pipeline. InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group's holding company and is incorporated and registered in England and Wales. Approximately 350,000 people work across IHG's hotels and corporate offices globally. Visit us online for more about our hotels and reservations and IHG Rewards. For our latest news, visit our Newsroom and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter. Dora Zhang IHG Key Takeaways Airbnb and the State Agency for Tourism Development of Ukraine have signed a joint memorandum to support post-war tourism. To date, Airbnb.org has helped more than 130,000 refugees to find free, temporary stays. Airbnb shares tourism data with the western Ukrainian city of Lviv via Cityportal interface. Airbnb and the State Agency for Tourism Development of Ukraine have signed a joint memorandum on the post-war period. To this end, the Head of the State Agency for Tourism Development in Ukraine, Mariana Oleskiv, and Airbnb co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer Nathan Blecharczyk met at the Consulate General of Ukraine in Munich. After the end of the war, tourism in Ukraine should be supported again. Airbnbs initiative to provide free temporary housing to 130,000 refugees from Ukraine was a significant support for us. After the victory, we would like to express our gratitude and show our hospitality by inviting the whole world that stands by Ukraine to visit us. The Memorandum of Understanding signed today actually proves our intentions to jointly restore the tourism industry of our country. Mariana Oleskiv, Head of the State Agency for Tourism Development in Ukraine Hosts on Airbnb are the heart of our community. This, of course, includes Hosts in Ukraine. Although minimal tourism is possible in Ukraine today, it is important to set the course for the post-war period now. With this joint memorandum, Airbnb commits to support tourism in Ukraine at the end of the war this is a strong sign for our community on the ground. Nathan Blecharczyk, Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer Airbnb More than 130,000 refugees have been housed to date Since the start of the war against Ukraine, Airbnb.org has helped more than 130,000 people find free and temporary accommodation. These stays were funded by Airbnb, Inc. and other Airbnb.org donors, as well as hosts who offered free and discounted stays through Airbnb.org. This work was also made possible by Airbnb.orgs partner NGOs, which helped book and coordinate stays for refugees. Airbnb.org has worked with more than 40 organizations around the world to provide temporary housing for people fleeing Ukraine. In Germany, Airbnb is working with PHINEO, among others, to support the Ukraine Response Incubator program this November. Airbnb is also cooperating with Ukraine Hilfe Berlin. On the occasion of the first anniversary of the war in Ukraine, Airbnb organized a Breakfast & Learn together with the organization, raising funds for Ukraine. Since Q2 2023, the western Ukrainian city of Lviv has also been using the City Portal, so there is already a first partnership with a Ukrainian city for data exchange. The City Portals technology offers governments and tourism organizations data insights, remitted tourist tax revenue, compliance tools, and centralized access to the Airbnb Neighborhood Support hotline. More than 300 cities and tourism organizations have partnered with Airbnb to access the City Portal. Last year, Airbnb worked with The Sputniks, Bienvenida, Karuna and United for Ukraine. Some of them specifically cater to minorities, such as children with disabilities and their families. About Airbnb Airbnb was born in 2007 when two Hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to over 4 million Hosts who have welcomed more than 1 billion guest arrivals across over 220 countries and regions. Travel on Airbnb keeps more of the financial benefits of tourism with the people and places that make it happen. Airbnb has generated billions of dollars in earnings for Hosts, most of whom are individuals listing the homes in which they live. Among Hosts who report their gender, more than half are women, and one in five employed Hosts are either teachers or healthcare workers. Travel on Airbnb also has generated more than $4 billion in tax revenue around the world. Airbnb has helped advance more than 1,000 regulatory frameworks for short-term rentals, including in 80% of our top 200 geographies. In late 2020, to support our continued expansion and diversification, we launched the City Portal to provide governments with a one-stop shop that supports data sharing and compliance with local registration rules. We continue to invest in innovations and tools to support our ongoing work with governments around the world to advance travel that best serves communities. About Airbnb.org Airbnb.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to facilitating temporary stays for people in times of crisis around the world. Airbnb.org operates independently and leverages Airbnb, Inc.'s technology, services, and other resources at no charge to carry out Airbnb.org's charitable purpose. The inspiration for Airbnb.org began in 2012 with a single host named Shell who opened up her home to people impacted by Hurricane Sandy. This sparked a movement and marked the beginning of a program that allows Hosts on Airbnb to provide stays for people in times of need. Since then, the program has evolved to focus on emergency response and to help provide stays to evacuees, relief workers, refugees, asylum seekers, and frontline workers fighting the spread of COVID-19. Since then, Hosts have offered to open up their homes and helped provide accommodations to 100,000 people in times of need. Airbnb.org is a separate and independent entity from Airbnb, Inc. Airbnb, Inc. does not charge service fees for Airbnb.org supported stays on its platform. Airbnb Press Airbnb Press Office Airbnb In todays digital-first era, theres a myriad of influential resources that inspire travelers to seek out certain destinations. From viral content on social media and posts from friends and family to destination sites and travel blogs, where people decide to travel can be a click away. Given that travelers are inundated with these outside influences and factors, how do people decide where to go? Insights from Expedia Group and Luth Researchs study, The Path to Purchase: Uncovering How Travelers Plan and Book, explores the complex online path behind the travel customer journey and provides actionable insights to help destination marketers large and small and around the globe reach the right travelers at the right time during their shopping journeys. Lets look at how you can use these key findings to build and execute impactful destination marketing campaigns. How travelers find destinations Early in the path to purchase, most travelers are undecided on where to travel. Before selecting where to go on their trip, more than half (59%) of travelers did not have a specific destination in mind or considered multiple destinations, which shows that people are open to destination inspiration in the beginning stages of the travel research process. Download the Path to Purchase report Travelers from Mexico and the U.K. seem to be more open to destination inspiration: More than 80% and 62% of travelers, respectively, said they were undecided on where to go. The research also showed that 63% of vacation rental bookers did not have a specific destination in mind when they first decided to take a trip. This highlights the opportunity for destinations and vacation rentals to connect with travelers early in their shopping journey. When it comes to travelers who consider multiple destinations, 13% said they considered three different destinations, on average. And of those considering multiple destinations, when asked about destination consideration similarities, the top influencers were weather or seasonality (53%), trip type such as beach, active, city, cruise (48%), travel costs (47%), how to get to the destination (46%), and length of time to arrive at a destination (45%). Interestingly, only 20% of travelers said the destinations they were considering were in similar regions, further indicating that travelers are open to destination inspiration and may not be tied to specific regions or countries when they start planning their trip. Source: Expedia Group Media Solutions Destination indecisiveness among most travelers at the beginning of the travel research process illustrates the opportunities for destinations and travel brands to inspire and influence travelers early in the booking path. With nearly one in five (19%) travelers saying advertising influenced their decision to book a trip, destinations should consider solutions that allow you to showcase your location, experiences, and other special offerings with beautiful imagery and customized copy, which can help appeal to travelers as they decide on their next destination. Social medias role in the path to purchase Social media has a strong influence throughout the travelers shopping journey, and travelers primarily use it for inspiration and recommendations. When it comes to researching and discovering destinations, social media plays a prominent role. Among travelers using social media during their path to purchase, 65% use it to find destination inspiration. Japanese travelers in particular turn to social media as a primary resource to discover destinations, with 76% using it to figure out where to take their next trip. Of those who use social media during the purchase path, 40% use it to view travel pictures, videos, and content from friends and family or influencers and celebrities. More than one-third (35%) use social media to gather feedback from friends or family on destinations they are considering. This shows that travelers are drawn to original content and travel advice from others and can be influenced to travel to destinations based on social media content Effective marketing campaigns for your destination When planning a trip, Instagram (65%), Facebook (48%), YouTube (40%), and TikTok (37%) are the most popular social media platforms for travelers, illustrating the range of social resources they are tapped into. To connect with travelers seeking inspiration on their social feeds, consider combining inspirational social content that promotes your destination, along with special deals or offerings to further entice travelers. Leveraging user-generated content in social campaigns may also resonate with travelers looking for authentic information and tips from other travelers. Additionally, social media solutions such as custom social promotions and co-branded videos can help take your social media campaigns to the next level and enhance social storytelling across platforms to ensure your destination stands out. How travelers find destinations and narrow their options During the research phase, travelers use a variety of resources to gather information and figure out their options, including online travel agencies (OTAs). Three-fourths of travelers use search engines, meta travel websites and social media, followed by destination sites and OTAs for travel research. Most travelers also use OTAs for research regardless of where they book, with 80% of travelers visiting an OTA before any travel purchase. When looking at those who booked on a hotel website or app, nearly two-thirds (61%) visited an OTA during their journey. Similarly, more than half (52%) of customers who booked on an air website and 58% of customers who booked on a car rental website visited an OTA. Source: Expedia Group Media Solutions Among those using destination sites during the path to purchase, 68% of travelers use them for research, as many as 80% in Japan. More than 40% of travelers using destination sites said the websites were influential in their decision-making process, meaning that its imperative your destination site is current, contains compelling imagery, showcases what makes your destination unique, and includes other key information like amenities or activities to help travelers narrow their destination options. Finalizing destination options In the planning phase, travelers are considering their destination options and, like the research phase, they turn to numerous different resources. OTAs are a top online resource in the planning phase, followed by meta travel websites, car, hotel, and rail websites or apps, vacation rental websites or apps, and social media. Among those using destination sites during the path to purchase, 27% of travelers use them for planning (32% in the U.S. and Japan), indicating that destination sites are still a vital resource for travelers as they consider their final options. 32% of U.S. travelers use destination websites to plan a trip. THE PATH TO PURCHASE: UNCOVERING HOW TRAVELERS PLAN AND BOOK In addition to finalizing their destination options during this phase, travelers are considering where and how to book their trip. When deciding where to shop and book their trip, nearly half (49%) said getting the best price is an important factor, nearly one-third (31%) consider their positive previous experience with a travel brand (37% in the U.S.), and 28% look for travel brands that offer flexible cancellation policies or refundable rates. For destinations, this highlights the importance of working with travel partners, including OTAs, to maximize your destinations reach with content beyond your owned channels to ensure your destination remains top of mind as travelers decide where to go. Creating unique and impactful content that showcases your destination, both on internal and external channels, will extend your reach and help you connect with travelers who are poised to purchase. Help travelers make travel decisions For more findings on what drives traveler decisions, and travel insights for more effective destination marketing campaigns, download the Path to Purchase study. Download the Path to Purchase report About Expedia Group Media Solutions Expedia Group Media Solutions is a global travel advertising platform that connects marketers with hundreds of millions of travelers across the Expedia Group brands. With our exclusive access to more than 70 petabytes of Expedia Group traveler search and booking data, we offer advertisers actionable insights, sophisticated targeting, and full-funnel results reporting. Our suite of solutions includes display, sponsored listings, audience extension, co-op campaigns, and custom creative campaigns all designed to deliver on the objectives of our advertising partners and add value for travel shoppers on our branded sites globally. With a consultative approach and more than 20 years of travel and media experience, we help our advertising partners inspire, engage, and convert travelers for meaningful results. For more information, visit www.advertising.expedia.com. 2022 Expedia, Inc., an Expedia Group company. All rights reserved. Trademarks and logos are the property of their respective owners. CST: 2029030-50 View source Yesterday, we celebrate World Tourism Day 2023, highlighting the need for more new and innovative solutions for people, for planet and for prosperity. To mark this day, we sat down with Damien Perrot, Accors Global Chief Design, Technical Services & Innovation Officer for Premium, Midscale & Economy Brands and the international award-winning interior architect Tristan du Plessis to discuss how Design and Innovation can help bring to life the hospitality of the future. Discover the Video of their Letter to the Future Design of Tomorrow Todays guests want experiences that are authentic and immersive, and spaces adapted to their increasingly flexible lifestyles. Design is a key element of the guest experience and we innovate with design to create memorable experiences and emotion for our guests. But for our team members too: being in an environment they can be proud of, it contributes to an even greater engagement with guests. Design also contributes to greater sustainability, for example through biophilic design, which offers multiple advantages to environmentally sustainable design such as reducing environmental impact and enhancing people well-being by creating healthier living and working environment. The Accor Design Awards, Accors global competition for architecture and interior design students inaugurated in 2016, uncover emerging trends and talents, to imagine the hospitality industry of tomorrow. We were privileged to have Tristan du Plessis as our headjudge in 2022. Design is much more than aesthetic. Design is a driver of growth, sustainability, and empowerment of people. It starts with the needs of our guests and our owners. Our role is to create experiences that differentiate each brand and enhance performance and value for our guests and investors. But also to improve the employee experience. Its about always challenging the status quo, always rethinking hospitality. DAMIEN PERROT Design and innovation are a set of tools that we have to advance our industry forward. I think it's really important to ask the question why: Why does a hotel need to be the way that it was before? TRISTAN DU PLESSIS Transformation Shaped by Design: The Art of Taking Risks In recent years, we have seen profound shifts in the world in the way we work, travel, and live. Design has both adapted to and trailblazed this transformation, going beyond traditional hospitality to create hybrid spaces where travel and lifestyle merge: one place does not equal one usage anymore. Hotels are social hubs, integrated within the local community and appealing to both travelers and locals. This strategy applies to all segments, from the ibis life hub concept, which welcomes everyone as if they were at home, to the MGallerys bespoke, locally rooted design aesthetics. And this innovation mindset can only truly flourish within a design-oriented culture that continually explores boundaries and fosters open collaboration. To leverage the full potential of design, you need to dare. You need to create a kind of recipe that will bring innovation. You need to have people who are able to reset everything they have learned, to reinvent themselves, to create surprises because this is the secret of emotion. You need to trust and you need to try. DAMIEN PERROT My challenge is creating a hotel that is guest-centric. Instead of trying to make the hotel feel local: collaborate with locals, so that it becomes a locally sourced project that forms a part of the local neighbourhood. And with the beauty and power of collaboration, Accor will have their ideas, I will have my ideas, and we will question them and create a third new idea that pushes a brand forward. TRISTAN DU PLESSIS Finding the Sweet Spot: Design and Performance Design is also a key lever for unlocking the full potential of each square meter within every hotel. As an integral part of the design process, it involves stepping back and considering the broader perspective: finding the right balance between business objectives and the needs of our guests. A good designer takes the budget constraints as a creative element. Performance is my leitmotiv. We want to create the place where we would like to live tomorrow. It is definitively through performance that we are leading the change. DAMIEN PERROT To have a rich and fertile space for creativity and innovation, we need a few core ingredients. The one that may seem a bit boring but crucial is understanding the budgetary constraints to focus on innovation. Thats where the beauty between performance and design comes into play. TRISTAN DU PLESSIS Design of Tomorrow: Designing the World We Want to Live In The hospitality industry stands at the forefront of designs future. We believe it is our role to challenge the status quo, foster innovation, embrace risk, and continuously refine our design strategies to push the industry into new frontiers. We want to create iconic projects, projects that break the mold. Design, innovation, entrepreneurship: they are the ingredients we need to create the future where we would like to live tomorrow. Thanks to Design and Innovation, we can create a new and positive world. We just need to dare, try, and trust. Source: Accor About Accor, a world-leading hospitality group Accor is a world leading hospitality group offering experiences across more than 110 countries in 5,500 properties, 10,000 food & beverage venues, wellness facilities or flexible workspaces. The Group has one of the industry's most diverse hospitality ecosystems, encompassing more than 40 hotel brands from luxury to economy, as well as Lifestyle with Ennismore. Accor is committed to taking positive action in terms of business ethics & integrity, responsible tourism, sustainable development, community outreach, and diversity & inclusion. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France and publicly listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States. For more information visit group.accor.com or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok. OIA, SANTORINI Three new luxury villas were introduced to the Canaves Oia collection of resorts and villas in Santorini, Greece this season. The villas, along with the companys Eden Villas complex, join the newly established Canaves Oia Villas Collection, which offers travelers to Santorini the perfect blend of privacy and space afforded guests of a luxury villa, along with the amenities and distinguished services of a luxury hotel, such as daily breakfast, room service, 24-hour front desk, twice-daily maid service and more. In Santorini, where most of the hotels were carved out from renovated historic residences, its rare to find large accommodations, particularly on the cliff, or caldera, side in Oia. The 40-year-old Canaves Oia, a family-owned collection of luxury hotels and villas, brings something different to Santorinis luxury accommodations with its bespoke collection of villas, each recently built or renovated. The new villas include a 5-bedroom villa at Canaves Oia Epitome, which is one of the largest villa accommodations available in the Oia area; plus a 3-bedroom villa and a 2-bedroom villa at the flagship Canaves Oia Suites property; along with the 3-villa at its Eden Villas complex in nearby Imerovigli, which offers the ultimate privacy. Each of the villas offer contemporary design, spacious living, prime locations in Oia and Imerovigli, and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. The villas are designed to elevate the vacation experience with a full set of amenities and premium services that will leave guests feeling pampered and rejuvenated. We added to our villa product because of continued demand for larger accommodations, says Managing Director Markos Chaidemenos, who was recently recognized as Hotelier of the Year by Virtuoso. Travelers are visiting with bigger groups or simply looking for more privacy and space to relax, and weve found that the accessibility our guests have to luxury resort amenities and services such as gourmet restaurants, room service and concierge assistance, has been a big draw for us. The Canaves Oia collection includes five luxurious properties on Santorini: the 53-suite-and-villa Canaves Oia Epitome; the flagship, 41-pool-suite Canaves Oia Suites; 18-suite Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel; the 8-suite Canaves Oia Sunday Suites; and the 3-villa complex of Eden Villas; as well as the Sunset Oia yacht excursions and rentals company. The properties are members of Virtuoso, Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Select Hotels & Resorts, and J.MAK HOSPITALITY. The brand has been recognized multiple times with Conde Nast Travelers Readers Choice Awards and Travel + Leisures Worlds Best Awards. The new and newly renovated villas in the collection include: 5-Bedroom Villa at Canaves Oia Epitome Source: Canaves Oia Santorini The palatial 5-Bedroom Villa at Canaves Oia Epitome, which at almost 8,000 square feet is one of the largest in Oia, sleeps 14 in sleek contemporary design and ultimate comfort with locally sourced stone, traditional whitewashed walls and all natural materials in perfect harmony with the local scenery. From spacious indoor (4,844 sq. ft.) and outdoor living and dining areas to its infinity pool and expansive terrace (3,444 sq. ft.), the property is ideal for families and groups of friends seeking seclusion, privacy and unparalleled luxury while at the same time enjoying unlimited access to the hotels facilities including restaurants, spa and lounges. The Villa also features a fully equipped kitchen, elevator, private fitness & treatment room, and a furnished lounge-terrace overlooking the Aegean sunset. Seamless personal service with private chefs, butler, concierge and spa therapists also available upon request. 3-Bedroom Villa at Canaves Oia Suites Source: Canaves Oia Santorini With nearly 2,000 square feet of unsurpassed comfort, the luxuriously minimalistic 2-bedroom Villa at Canaves Oia Suites embraces refined lifestyle offering a delightful holiday home in Santorinis most fascinating scenery. The villa features three bedrooms with King Size beds that can be split into twin beds at your convenience. Each bedroom has an en-suite bathroom with rain showers and one of them comes with a bathtub. Vast living areas comprise a spacious, separate living room with stylish, comfortable furnishings, a separate dining area and fully equipped kitchen for your self-catering needs. For fine-dining nights, the villa offers the option of a private chef upon request. Two large private verandas, with large infinity pool and open-air dining area, offer splendid panoramic views to the Aegean Sea, the mysteriously attractive volcano and the charming caldera cliffs. 2-Bedroom Villa at Canaves Oia Suites Source: Canaves Oia Santorini Our new Two Bedroom Villa at Canaves Oia Suites has its own private pool and breathtaking Aegean views. The Villa features two bedrooms with King Size beds, one of which can be split into twin beds. This light, airy and spacious accommodation option features clean architectural lines and modern design. This luxury villa is ideal for extended island stays of families or groups of friends. The Villa showcases traditional architectural design elements combined with all the comforts of a much-loved home, evoking an overall feeling of relaxed luxury. Relax at the private veranda, take a dip at your private infinity pool or unwind on the comfy sunbeds. When the sun goes down guests can enjoy an alfresco dining experience in the private dining area and panoramic views of the Aegean Sea from its stunning cliffside caldera setting. 7-Bedroom Eden Villas Complex Source: Canaves Oia Santorini Nestled just minutes from the bustling town of Fira and a mere 20 minutes drive from the picturesque village of Oia, Eden Villas is a complex of three opulent villas, designed to provide the ultimate luxury experience for families and friends. These villas can also be booked as a whole, offering a private 7-bedroom property for groups to enjoy. The three-villa complex is the perfect secluded location to completely unwind, relax and rejuvenate in the utmost privacy, away from the hustle and bustle of the island. All three villas boast striking, unobstructed views of the volcano, Skaros rock and the breathtaking sunset, providing the perfect backdrop for a truly indulgent stay. At Eden Villas, guests can enjoy all the VIP amenities and services they could wish for, such as a private chef (upon request with extra charge), ensuring a truly unparalleled experience. The complex is also the perfect setting for a dreamy, intimate wedding, making it the ideal choice for couples looking for a romantic escape. About Canaves Oia Canaves Oia is a family-owned-and-managed collection of luxury resorts on Santorini, Greece, each with its own unique dining concept and stunning views. When their first property opened in 1983 the Chaidemenos family were among the first families to introduce tourism to the fishing village of Oia, Santorini. It was then that Yiannis and Anna Chaidemenos transformed 17th-century caves, once used to store wine, into designer-chic luxury hotel rooms. The birth of the Canaves Oia brand, led by an all-white minimalistic concept, redefined the meaning of luxury accommodation in Santorini. Today, the Canaves Oia collection includes five luxurious properties on Santorini: the 53-suite-and-villa Canaves Oia Epitome; the 41-pool-suite Canaves Oia Suites; the flagship, 18-suite Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel; the 8-suite Canaves Oia Sunday Suites; and the 3-villa complex of Eden Villas. The properties are members of Virtuoso, Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Select Hotels & Resorts, and J.MAK HOSPITALITY. The brand has been recognized multiple times with Conde Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards and Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards. Carrie Culpepper J.MAK HOSPITALITY Canaves Oia Santorini Hosted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the official celebrations welcomed more than 50 Ministers of Tourism alongside hundreds of high-level delegates from the public and private sectors. The day featured expert-led panels focused on key topics around this year's theme of Tourism and Green Investments, with plans backed up with concrete actions as UNWTO announced several important new initiatives. This year has been the biggest World Tourism Day ever, and we want to make sure it leaves the biggest impact too This year has been the biggest World Tourism Day ever, and we want to make sure it leaves the biggest impact too. From Riyadh, we have joined our global sector around a pledge to promote new destinations, to diversify the economic and social benefits of tourism, and have announced a new school that will transform tourism education in the Middle East. UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili Tourism Pledges to Open Minds In Riyadh, Secretary-General Pololikashvili introduced "Tourism Opens Minds", a landmark initiative designed to showcase the powerful role that tourism plays in bridging cultures and fostering peace and understanding. With UNWTO's latest data indicating the sector is well on track to recover as much as 95% of pre-pandemic arrivals numbers by the end of 2023, Tourism Opens Minds is designed to ensure that this strong recovery is joined by a greater emphasis on tourists exploring less-visited destinations. The focus will be on: Making lesser-known destinations more accessible to all tourists and ensuring all visitors receive a warm welcome by host communities Promoting lesser-known destinations and actively working to make tourists visit them Working with governments and the private sector to encourage tourists themselves to be more open-minded in their choice of travel destination To mark the launch, UNWTO unveiled a new symbol for the initiative, made up of the colours of the various flags of the world, and shared a pledge for the sector to unite around. A special pledge, to be supported by Governments, private sector leaders and tourists themselves, was shared with select delegates, calling on them to commit to promoting new and diverse travel destinations. Investing in Tourism Education To ensure that the World Tourism Day 2023 celebrations leave a lasting impact in Riyadh and across the wider region, UNWTO Secretary-General Pololikashvili joined with Saudi Arabia's Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb to announce a joint project focused on creating new generations of skilled tourism workers: The Riyadh School of Tourism and Hospitality will be a collaborative effort between UNWTO, the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia and Qiddiya With 80% of all global tourism education programs currently focused on hotel operations, the Riyadh School will deliver learning for every part of the diverse sector. The School will offer eight different levels of educational programs including diplomas and certificates through to professional courses and courses at the Bachelors and Master's degree level. RELATED LINKS About The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is the United Nations specialized agency fostering tourism as a vehicle for equal, inclusive and sustainable development. Working with its Member States, international organizations and the private sector, UNWTO promotes safe and seamless travel for all. UNWTO also works to make tourism the foundation of trust and international cooperation and a central pillar of recovery. As part of the wider UN system, UNWTO is at the forefront of global efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including through its ability to create decent jobs, promote equality and preserve natural and cultural heritage. Follow UNWTO on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Linkedin. Austin, Texas - Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) is pleased to announce the return of the premier hospitality technology pitch competition Entrepreneur 20X (E20X) at three events in 2024. Startups will have the opportunity to present their cutting-edge platforms at HFTPs inaugural Digital Horizons 360 (DH360) Symposium in Europe in February and at HITEC Dubai and HITEC North America in June. Applications to compete are now open. Established in 2015, the upcoming E20X events will mark the fourth and eighth E20X competitions at HITEC Dubai and HITEC North America, respectively. DH360 in February will be the event's return to the continent where it was last held at HITEC Europe in 2019. We are proud to bring even more of what makes our association great back to Europe in 2024. Entrepreneur 20X's triumphant return at DH360 is a testament to the unbeatable spirit of innovation and enterprise that defines our global community. HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe, CAE DH360, February 2021 in Mallorca, Spain, is an invitation-only symposium for hospitality technology leaders to participate in roundtable discussions on the technologies set to have the biggest industry impact in Europe. The two-day event has centered this years programming on subjects including artificial intelligence, self-sovereign identity and cybersecurity, all of which are common focuses of industry startups in recent years. At an event concentrated on celebrating thought leadership and what's next in hospitality technology, it only makes sense to invite the next generation of industry visionaries to present their solutions. E20X is not just a competition; it's a transformative journey that propels ideas into action and dreams into reality. HFTP EMEA COO Carson Booth, CHTP HITEC Dubai, co-located with The Hotel Show is June 4-5 at the Dubai World Trade Center. HITEC North America is June 2427 at the Charlotte Convention Center in Charlotte, N.C. USA. Dozens of startups have participated in the competition, gaining invaluable insights and exposure to top industry mentors, investors, leaders and executives. Participants compete for two awards: the Judges Choice Award which includes a cash prize and the Peoples Choice Award, a popular vote selected by event attendees. Applications to compete at all three competitions are available on the E20X site. The deadline for E20X Europe is December 15, 2023 and the deadline for the Dubai and Charlotte competitions is March 15, 2024. For more information regarding the competition, email [email protected]. About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in the EU and Middle East. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. In addition, it oversees the hospitality-specific Pineapplesearch.com and the Uniform System of Accounts for the Lodging Industry (USALI). For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org. For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org. Kaylee Sciacca Marketing and Communications Coordinator +1 (737) 400-4418 HFTP Swissotel Antalya Kalkan to Open 2025 in Turkey Accor is partnering with Fenix Companies Group to further strengthen its footprint across Turkiye. Set to open in 2025, Swissotel Antalya Kalkan will bring the Swissotel Hotels & Resorts brand to stunning bays of Turkiye. Nestled in a prime location on the bay of Kalkan, Swissotel Antalya Kalkan will offer relaxing panoramic views as well as a private beach stretch. On the signing, Eyup Mavi, Group Chairman of Fenix Companies Group, stated, "Our collaboration with Accor marks a milestone in our company's growth. We are proud to be working together to bring Swissotel Antalya Kalkan to Turkiye to be able to showcase the natural beauty and hospitality that our country has to offer. This partnership represents an exciting venture that capitalizes on Fenix's expertise and Accor's global reputation to elevate the hospitality landscape in the Mediterranean region." "We are delighted to partner with Fenix Companies Group to bring Swissotel Antalya Kalkan to life. With its awe-inducing location on the breath-taking bays of Kalkan and the exceptional facilities it will offer, we are confident that this resort will become a premier destination for travellers seeking enriching experiences that deliver the good life." said Paul Stevens, Chief Operating Officer Premium, Midscale & Economy Division, Middle East, Africa & Turkiye at Accor. The total area of the project is an expansive 39,615 sqm, making Swissotel Antalya Kalkan a truly remarkable property for the Swissotel brand. Swissotel Antalya Kalkan will feature 245 elegant and spacious rooms, two exquisite restaurants; offering fine dining experiences, a Cafe Swiss, two bars, a private beach, a swimming pool, and a 900-sqm fitness and spa facility. Advertisement The property will depart from traditional structures, focusing on offering intuitive design, incorporating elements of local customs, impeccable craftsmanship and a strong commitment to sustainability. Swissotel Antalya Kalkan will feature unique and innovative spaces, while taking a holistic approach to the overall lodging experience. Incorporating interior and exterior landscaping and the presence of natural vegetation on-site, works to enhance guests' feelings of comfort, vitality and relaxation in a spectacular natural environment. For those seeking relaxation and wellness, Swissotel Antalya Kalkan will offer an expansive 900 sqm fitness and spa facility equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, including a fitness center, beauty salon, yoga studio, sauna, steam room, Turkish bath and massage rooms, where guests will be able to indulge in rejuvenating experiences that cater to their well-being. One of the key highlights of Swissotel Antalya Kalkan will be its private beach and outdoor swimming pool. Nestled amidst the breath-taking bays of Kalkan, guests can soak up the sun, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a range of water activities for a truly unforgettable experience. Subscribers to Register-Star or The Daily Mail are eligible to receive full access to HudsonValley360. If you have an existing print subscription, please make sure your email address on file matches your HudsonValley360 account email. Hudson, NY (12534) Today Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low 29F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low 29F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. North Adams Man Arrested in Williamstown Armed Robbery A photo of the pellet gun connected with an alleged armed robbery in Williamstown on Wednesday. Williamstown Police said, 'these weapons look identical to functioning handguns until examined closely.' WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. A North Adams man was arrested Wednesday night and charged with armed robbery in an incident at the Cumberland Farms on Main Street, police said in a news release. Joshua Piantoni, 41, of Whittesly Avenue, was held overnight and transported to court on Thursday morning, police said. At about 11:30 on Wednesday night, police received a call from the clerk at Cumberland Farms reporting, "the store had just been robbed at gunpoint and the suspect had fled down Main Street towards North Adams in a four-wheeled ATV," the WPD news release reads. The Williamstown Police notified North Adams, and police from both departments located a "male party" on an ATV, the news release read. After a short chase, police arrested Piantoni near the Ashton Avenue rail crossing in North Adams. "Money taken from the store as well as a pellet gun were recovered on the suspect at the time of his arrest," police said. Piantoni was charged with armed robbery, operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license, unsafe operation of recreational vehicle, operating an unregistered motor vehicle and a recreational vehicle helmet violation, according to the news release. "We are thankful for the quick, professional actions of the involved officers of WPD and NAPD that this subject was taken into custody without incident," Williamstown Police Chief Michael Ziemba said in the news release. Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check 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 Health Check email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The administration of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is not recommending Covid boosters for people under the age of 65. The recommendation goes against guidance from federal health authorities. Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are recommending updated shots for everyone six months and older. In a statement from DeSantiss office released 13 September, the governor said, I will not stand by and let the FDA and CDC use healthy Floridians as guinea pigs for new booster shots that have not been proven to be safe and effectiveFlorida is the first state in the nation to stand up and provide guidance based on truth, not Washington edicts. State Surgeon General Dr Joseph Ladapo, appointed by the governor, echoed DaSantiss opinions in the statement. The move comes at a time when health officials are monitoring two new worrisome variants, EG.5 (Eris) and BA.2.86 (Pirola), and both deaths from Covid-19 and hospital admissions are rising. From 27 August to 2 September, hospital admissions rose 8.7 per cent from the previous week, according to the most recent data from the CDC; during that same time period, deaths from the virus rose 10.5 percent. Though advanced age is a risk factor for severe disease from Covid-19, the virus infectsand, in some cases, is fatal forpeople of all ages. According to data from market research company Statista, Covid has killed more than 200,000 people aged 50 to 64; more than 46,000 people aged 40 to 49; nearly 20,000 people aged 30 to 39; nearly 7,000 people aged 18 to 29; and more than 1,600 people under 18 in the US alone. Not getting the vaccine could also put peopleno matter their ageat an increased risk for developing long Covid, per Harvard Health Publishing. Long Covid has been associated with a number of debilitating symptoms, including tiredness or fatigue; fever; difficulty breathing; shortness of breath; cough; heart palpitations; chest pain; headache; sleep issues; difficulty concentrating; lightheadedness; depression; anxiety; diarrhoea; muscle or joint pain; stomach pain; rash; and changes in menstrual cycles, per the CDC. Long Covid, too, affects people under the age of 65, providing another reasonaside from risk of death and hospitalisationto consider the vaccine if you fall into that category. According to a report from the CDC, one study suggested that the prevalence of long Covid was highest among people aged 35 to 44 years old. Experts say its also worth noting that Covid cases can take a tremendous toll on our healthcare system. Abraar Karan, an infectious disease researcher at Stanford University, recently tweeted, One of the issues is that many people think of diseases mainly in terms of their own risk of bad outcomes being low. That works for noncommunicable diseases. For viruses like Covid, however, theres more at stake, he said. But for contagious respiratory viruses with high incidence, you multiply that low risk across hundreds of millions and end up with a big absolute number of bad outcomes. Karan previously tweeted research estimating that universal Covid-19 vaccination could prevent at least 200,000 hospitalisations and 15,000 deaths during the next two years. DeSantiss claim that the vaccines are not safe and effective goes against messaging from global health authorities. The CDC has noted that more than 672 million doses of Covid vaccines have been administered in the US alone. The vaccines have also been evaluated in tens of thousands of people in clinical trials, and were found to meet the FDAs standards for safety and effectiveness. Though Republican politicians have publicly painted the vaccines as controversial or dangerous, many have chosen to get the shots to protect themselves. Former president Donald Trump has been vaccinated, per the Associated Press. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell also got vaccinated, as did Senator Josh Hawley. DeSantis himself also privately got vaccinated against the virus, per USA Today. Many have questioned why top Republican leaders have chosen to protect themselves through vaccination while publicly portraying the shots as somehow dangerous or controversial. DeSantiss guidance comes in a state already seeing the effects of vaccine misinformation: A new survey from the University of South Florida looked at how likely people in the state are to believe false statements about Covid-19. The statement found 42 per cent of respondents thought the statement Vaccines can cause you to get sick with COVID-19 was either probably true or definitely true. The same percentage of respondents said COVID-19 vaccines are causing new variants of the virus to emerge was probably true or definitely true. The survey found that Democratic respondents were significantly more willing to continue getting updated Covid boosters than their Republican counterparts. The CDC says that getting the booster ahead of this years cold and flu season is one of the best ways to keep yourself and your family healthy. As CDC Director Dr Mandy Cohen said in a recent statement on the vaccines, We have more tools than ever to prevent the worst outcomes from COVID-19. CDC is now recommending updated COVID-19 vaccination for everyone 6 months and older to better protect you and your loved ones. Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free 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 The Life Cinematic email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} This week, Wes Anderson will debut four new short films over four days, each adapted from lesser-known stories by Roald Dahl, whose work he has previously tackled in 2009s Fantastic Mr Fox. Since Netflix acquired the Roald Dahl Story Company in 2021, for the princely sum of $686m (564m), the shorts will debut directly on the streaming service The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar first, followed by The Swan, The Ratcatcher, and then Poison. Anderson has described the deal as more of a marriage of convenience than anything else. At 39 minutes, The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar is the longest of the quartet. And it makes for an ideal companion to the directors previous two films, Asteroid City and The French Dispatch. Written by Dahl in 1977, it concerns a wealthy, ineffectual man by the name of Henry (Benedict Cumberbatch). He discovers a notebook, written by a Dr Chatterjee (Dev Patel), that details his encounter with Imdad Khan (Ben Kingsley), otherwise known as The Man Who Could See Without Using His Eyes. Many believe that Dahl wrote the story as a gentle rebuke to the critics who would chastise his macabre and cynical inclinations Henry, at first, covets Khans powers in order to improve his hand at cards. Yet, his greed isnt punished but absolved by a greater purpose. Andersons adaptation seems to conceal its own (conscious or subconscious) rebuke. For every sincere admirer of his work, now there is an Instagram filter or viral AI prompt ready to denigrate his craft. So perhaps its no coincidence that the director has found himself increasingly drawn to material that celebrates the labour behind storytelling: the journalists who narrate their pieces to the audience in The French Dispatch, or the actors and writers behind the play-inside-a-television-show that constitutes Asteroid City. Here, in the lovely, immaculate, and extremely faithful The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, were first introduced to Dahl himself. Hes played by Ralph Fiennes, slightly slumped in his posture, but rigorous in his routine a natural ancestor of Andersons. He sets out his writing board, paper, and pencil. He makes a few swift edits. Then, he introduces us to Henry, who introduces us to Dr Chatterjee, who, in turn, introduces us to Imdad. Each of them tells their story, in the galloping clip of an explorer presenting their discovery. They deliver Dahls prose almost entirely untouched, with all the I saids and passages of descriptive language intact. At one point, Dr Chatterjee tells us that two minutes pass. He takes a short breath, and immediately continues on. Theres no illusion of reality here, no detachment from the storyteller and the story. In every single moment of The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, we are reminded that this is a product of human imagination, brought into being by human hands. Anderson makes use of animation, claymation, miniatures, painted backgrounds, and back-projection. His actors (the short also features Richard Ayoade, as Dr Chatterjees assistant) play multiple roles, working like a theatre troupe. When Imdads eyes are covered up in order to test his powers of sight, the bandage arrives pre-wrapped, popped on like a helmet. When he levitates, he simply rotates a small box, painted to blend into the scenes jungle backdrop, and sits on it. At other times, well-dressed stagehands silently emerge from the wings, as they rearrange props, pop open windows, and drag actors across the stage. Anderson even allows his shots to occasionally extend beyond the edges of his backdrops, so that his frames become littered with stage lights and wires. He wants us to see the artifice, so that when Dahls simple but effective tale of seeing the world in unexpected ways concludes, were reminded that fiction can often feel more true to us than life. Dir: Wes Anderson. Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Ralph Fiennes, Dev Patel, Ben Kingsley, Rupert Friend, Richard Ayoade. PG, 39 minutes. The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar streams on Netflix from Wednesday 27 September, followed in successive days by The Swan, The Ratcatcher and Poison Sign up to Roisin OConnors free weekly newsletter Now Hear This for the inside track on all things music Get our Now Hear This email for free 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 Roisin OConnors email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Former Pink Floyd star Roger Waters made up a song in which he referred to his agent as a f***ing Jew, a new documentary has alleged. The Dark Side of Roger Waters includes a number of extraordinary and disturbing claims by those who have worked with the controversial Floyd co-founder and bassist, including Bob Ezrin, the acclaimed co-producer behind the bands 1979 album The Wall. One musician, saxophonist Norbert Stachel, claimed that Waters once angrily pushed away a dish served to him in a Lebanese restaurant, referring to it as Jew food, and did a crude impersionation of his grandmother as a Polish peasant woman. Emails purportedly sent by Waters ahead of his 2010 tour claimed to show him asking about having antisemitic slurs written on a giant inflatable pig that would be flown over the audience during his concerts. The documentary, which was produced by London-based charity Campaign Against Antisemitism and presented by investigative journalist John Ware, was released on Wednesday evening (27 September) on the CAAs social media platforms. Waters, 80, has come under fire on a number of occasions for making inflammatory remarks about Israel. He has vehemently denied he is an antisemite. The documentarys producers said he did not respond to their requests for comment. Ezrin, who is Jewish, alleged that he heard Waters use antisemitic slurs. The ditty he accused Waters of composing was about Pink Floyds agent, Bryan Morrison. Something like the last line of the couplet was cause Morry is a f***ing Jew. It was my first inclination that there may be some antisemitism under the surface, Ezrin, 74, said in the documentary. Now Roger knew that Im Jewish so I didnt know whether this was another one of those sort of button-poking things that he was doing just to see if I would react or whether he just did not even get how offensive that might be to a Jewish person. Enjoy unlimited access to 70 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Sign up Enjoy unlimited access to 70 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Sign up Stachel recalled the moment that Waters discovered he was from a Jewish family from Poland and Minsk, and had a number of relatives who were murdered during the Holocaust. Waters allegedly responded: Oh, I can help you feel like you are meeting your long-lost relatives. Ill introduce you to your dead grandmother. I can do a good Polish peasant imitation, an impression of a Polish peasant woman. Stachel during the Roger Waters documentary (YouTube/Campaign Against Antisemitism) He tried to go into character as a babushka and he puts on this impression of an old hag. He tries to portray a Polish Jewish peasant womans voice, Stachel claimed. What got me is after he does this he goes: Now youve met your grandmother, how do you feel now? He knew that I wouldnt challenge him on it because I wanted his money and I wanted his gig. A power thing, thats all, and an arrogance thing. Maybe an evil thing. Ezrin, who has known Waters for decades, called Waters a brilliant songwriter and poet, whom he viewed as both a musical partner and a friend. There were times when he was really tender and very sweet, and I loved the man, I did, he said. Part of me still loves him; part of me is very upset with him for positions hes taking in the public that affect me as a Jew, and affect my people, and my family, and my friends. And I feel thats why I have to do this interview and speak about it publicly. Pink Floyd producer Bob Ezrin (YouTube) In May this year, Waters caused uproar in Germany after dressing in an outfit resembling a Nazi SS office during his live shows, while also projecting the name of Anne Frank on a giant screen. Unearthed emails shown in the documentary purport to detail how Waters dealt with disagreements over his use of the troubling imagery, some of which appeared during his 2010 world tour. He apparently wanted to write antisemitic insults and symbols including swastikas on the pig, such as dirty kike and follow the money. Kike is an derogatory slur used against Jewish people. The word was apparently dropped by Waters after protests from his lighting director at the time, who was Jewish. Do I think he considers himself to be an antisemite? Ezrin said in the documentary. Ill bet you dollars for doughnuts he does not and he will be the first person to say: Im not anti anything, I am in favour of everyone. But as a person with a powerful public platform he has a responsibility to understand that what he does affects other people and so he may not be one but he walks like one, he quacks like one, he swims like one so from my point of view hes functionally a duck. Roger Waters was criticised by his former saxophonist for alleged bullying behaviour (PA Archive) Others in the documentary suggested that Waters comments were the result of either arrogance, ignorance, bullying behaviour or nascent antisemitism. Gideon Falter, chief executive of the Campaign Against Antisemitism, said: Roger Waters is literally a rock star. He could do anything. Hes got this platform which allows him to influence tens of thousands of people at his concerts, millions of people via social media, and yet he keeps using it for this to push the buttons of Jews, to bait Jews, to keep on coming back to Jews. What kind of a person does that with that kind of a voice? In June, Waters called out his former bandmate David Gilmours wife, author Polly Samson, during a performance at the O2 Arena in London. Samson, who has also written lyrics for Pink Floyd, has previously accused Waters of antisemitism in a post from her Twitter/X account. All I have to say about Polly Samson is: imagine waking up to that every morning, Waters said, apparently referring to Gilmour. He previously responded on his official Twitter/X account, saying he was aware of the incendiary and wildly inaccurate comments made about him on Twitter by Polly Samson which he refutes entirely Waters has repeatedly claimed that allegations of antisemitism made against him are an attempt to undermine his stance on Israel. The Independent has contacted Waters representative for comment. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} North Korea has adopted a constitutional policy to exponentially expand its nuclear weapons programme amid a new Cold War, said the countrys dictator Kim Jong-un. The announcement comes on the heels of North Korea confirming the release of Travis King, a US army soldier who had sprinted to the country while on a tour at the border it shares with neighbour South Korea. The declaration also comes days after he concluded a visit to Russia and met Vladimir Putin as the two leaders, both isolated on the world stage, look to cement ties and prop up their regimes. The Norths state-run KCNA news agency on Thursday quoted Mr Kim as announcing its nuclear force-building policy. The countrys rubber stamp parliament on Wednesday also unanimously approved a new clause in the constitution to include the nuclear weapons expansion programme to ensure the countrys right to existence and development, deter war and protect regional and global peace by rapidly developing nuclear weapons to a higher level, as per KCNA. The DPRKs nuclear force-building policy has been made permanent as the basic law of the state, which no one is allowed to flout with anything, Mr Kim said, while addressing the parliament as he referred to the Norths official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea. Mr Kim went on to stress the need to push ahead with the work for exponentially boosting the production of nuclear weapons and diversifying the nuclear strike means and deploying them in different services. He made the comments during a two-day session of the parliament, called The Supreme Peoples Assembly, that took place on Tuesday and Wednesday. In this photo taken during a two-day session on 26-27 September 2023 and provided by the North Korean government, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (bottom centre) attends a meeting of the countrys parliament (AP) This comes as Mr Kim called for his country to play a larger role in a coalition of nations confronting the US in what he called a new Cold War. He said US military drills and deployment of strategic assets in the region, along with South Korea and Japan, were extreme provocations and accused them of creating the Asian version of Nato, the root cause of war and aggression. This is just the worst actual threat, not threatening rhetoric or an imaginary entity, he said. KCNAs reports on Mr Kims comments come a day after North Korea confirmed the release of Mr King, who is now being flown back to America two months after his sprint across the heavily fortified border into the North. Tensions in the Korean Peninsula are at their highest level in years as North Korea has test fired more than 100 missiles since the start of 2022 and the US has expanded its military exercises with its Asian allies in tit-for-tat responses. The 9th Session of the 14th Supreme Peoples Assembly of the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea is held at the Mansudae Assembly Hall in Pyongyang in this undated photo received by Reuters on 28 September (via REUTERS) Responding to the Norths revised constitution, South Koreas unification ministry said it showed Pyongyangs strong will not to abandon its nuclear programme. We once again stress that North Korea will face an end of its regime if it uses nuclear weapons, it warned in a statement. North Koreas nuclear and missile development poses threats to peace and safety of our country and the international community, and can never be tolerated, said Japanese chief cabinet secretary Hirokazu Matsuno. The amendment comes a year after North Korea officially enshrined in law the right to use preemptive nuclear strikes to protect itself, a move Mr Kim had said would make its nuclear status irreversible. With the North gradually ending its pandemic lockdown, Mr Kim has been actively boosting partnerships with Moscow and Beijing as well, as he attempts to break out of diplomatic isolation and join a united front against Washington. This pool image distributed by Sputnik agency shows North Koreas leader Kim Jong Un leaving Vostochny Cosmodrome in Amur region on 13 September 2023 (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) He returned home last week from a trip to Russia during which he and Mr Putin agreed to boost military and economic cooperation. US and South Korean officials have expressed concern that Pyongyang could be seeking technological help for its nuclear and missile programmes while Moscow tries to acquire ammunition from the North to supplement its dwindling stocks for the war in Ukraine. Analysts said having the nuclear policy written into the constitution is a symbolic move, declaring the Norths intention to have a permanent nuclear force that it would not negotiate over. The new Cold War in the Northeast Asia region and military tensions on the Korean peninsula will intensify, said Yang Moo-jin, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul. Additional reporting by agencies 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 }} Taiwan on Thursday unveiled its first domestically developed submarine named after a mythical fish in a step forward to counter China's rising aggression around the island's waters. Taiwan's defence ministry staged the first sea trial of a $1.54bn (1.27bn) diesel-electric powered submarine at its shipbuilder CSBC Corps Kaohsiung dockyard. The vessel would have to undergo several tests before it could join the existing fleet in 2025. "It is the concrete realisation of our resolution to protect Taiwan, president Tsai Ing-wen said at the launch ceremony. The president initiated the plan in 2016 to add eight new submarines to strengthen the island's aging fleet amid a looming threat of Chinese invasion. Beijing considers Taiwan to be a part of China and hasn't ruled out the use of force to reunite the self-governed island with the mainland. However, observers believe China will not attack the island imminently due to critical Western attention on the East Asian waters. "In the past, a domestic-made submarine was considered impossible, but today a submarine designed and built by our countrymen is in front of you," the president said. The submarine Hai Kun is named after a type of fish found in Chinese literature called Kun, of legendary proportions. The submarine took seven years to design and build. The islands red flag, featuring a white sun against a blue sky, was wrapped around the submarines bow during the display on Thursday. Launching ceremony of Taiwans first domestically built submarine, in Kaohsiung (REUTERS) The submarine will use a combat system by Lockheed Martin Corp and carry US-made Mark 48 heavyweight torpedoes. It will enter sea trials next month before delivery to the navy by the end of 2024. The vessel was made possible with the secretive help of other countries as Taiwan maintains official diplomatic relations with only 13 nations and a robust relationship with the US. The technology for the submarine was sourced from countries including the US and the UK in a breakthrough for the diplomatically isolated island, Reuters reported. Taiwan also hired engineers, technicians and ex-naval officers from India, South Korea, Spain, Australia and Canada. Beijing frowns on Taiwan's diplomatic and bilateral ties with foreign nations and often responds with military exercises encircling the island. Taiwan's president Tsai Ing-wen poses for a photo with CSBC Corporation chair Cheng Wen-lon while holding a scale model of Haikun (REUTERS) The process was "torturous", said Cheng Wen-lon, head of Taiwan's CSBC Corporation, which led the construction of the submarine. "Although we have worked quietly the past several years, it doesn't mean the process was very smooth," he said at the ceremony. Taipei said it hopes to deploy at least two such domestically developed submarines by 2027 and equip them with missiles. Launching ceremony of Taiwans first domestically built submarine, in Kaohsiung (REUTERS) The island's navy currently has only four submarines, including two World War II-era vessels from the US that are used for training. Taiwan procured two submarines from the Netherlands in the 1980s. In comparison, Chinas fleet is reported to consist of more than 60 boats, including nuclear-powered submarines. Taiwanese foreign minister Joseph Wu said that faced with an increased threat from China's military "grey zone" pressure tactics close to the island with air and naval activities, Taiwan had to strengthen its defences. "Having a new submarine is one of those strategies," he said. "For anyone who questions Taiwan's submarine strategy, I would be a most forceful advocate for Taiwan to acquire submarines because that's needed to deter war from taking place." 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 }} Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeaus office strongly denied the claim that his plane was full of cocaine when he came to India for the G20 meet this month. This (is) absolutely false and a troubling example of how disinformation can make its way into media reporting, his office said in a statement on Wednesday as it dismissed the unsubstantiated claim floated by a retired Indian diplomat during a TV discussion, according to the Toronto Star. The bizarre claim, which has been widely reported in the Indian media, comes amid a fierce diplomatic spat between the two countries. Canada and India have both ejected one of each others senior diplomats after Mr Trudeau said there were credible allegations of Indian state involvement in the death of a Sikh leader in Canada. Former Indian ambassador to Sudan Deepak Vohra said on Monday there were credible rumours that sniffer dogs found cocaine on his plane and that Mr Trudeau didnt come out of his room for two days. He didnt go to the presidents dinner. People say he was in a drug-induced stupor, Mr Vohra claimed while appearing on Zee News as a panelist on a show hosted by anchor Deepak Chaurasia. The show began as the anchor attempted to unpack how the brain of the Canadian prime minister worked. Does he have a brain? He is a tiny infant, responded Mr Vohra, adding that when his wife spotted Mr Trudeau at Delhi airport, he looked troubled. ...Cant say whats going on in his head but I understand his behaviour shows he was freaked out, he said. His claims were not questioned by the anchor. "He has become lonely. He is now trying to show that he is a Canadian Rambo and nothing can go wrong in his presence. India has done the right thing by suspending visa services in Canada," he said. The comments came during one of the worst spells for diplomatic relations between India and Canada in decades following the killing of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The crisis between New Delhi and Ottawa unfolded last week after prime minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian state of involvement in the killing of the Canadian national. Nijjar was murdered in Vancouver on 18 June by two masked men, who fired an estimated 30 to 50 shots at him. Canadian officials say they have human and signals intelligence backing up their claims regarding the killing, including communications involving Indian officials in Canada, CBC reported. "I can assure you that the decision to share these allegations on the floor of the House of Commons was not done lightly," Mr Trudeau told parliament last week. "It was done with the utmost seriousness." The allegations have sparked a bitter row between the two countries. Ottawa expelled a senior diplomat working for Indian intelligence, while India which labelled Nijjar a terrorist in 2020 angrily rejected the allegation as "absurd", expelled the chief of Canadian intelligence in India, issued travel warnings, stopped issuing visas for Canadians and ordered Canada to downsize its diplomatic presence in India. 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 Muslim man was beaten to death in Indias national capital after he stole a small amount of food from a temple, police said. Isar Mohammad, 26, was tied to a pole, tortured and beaten to death in New Delhi on Tuesday. He had been accused of taking some prasad (food offerings) and Rs 20 (20p) from a pile of offerings made by devotees of the Hindu deity Ganesha at a temporary installation during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi. In a graphic video purporting to show the incident that went viral on social media, five men can be seen beating Isar as he cries out in pain, pleading for them to stop. Police said Isar had been unable to explain himself or reason with temple officials because he had a mental disability. He was cold like a dead body when he was brought back to our house. Seeing him like that, I too died with him, his sister Umrana Mohammad told news portal The Quint. The incident came to light after his father Abdul Wajid informed the police on Tuesday night, shortly after Isar succumbed to his injuries. The family said he was not a thief and had picked up the food from the offering because he was hungry. The authorities have registered a murder case in the matter and arrested seven people, including Kamal, 23, his brother Manoj, 19, Yunus, 20, Kishan, 19, Pappu, Lucky, a food stall owner, and a 17-year-old who has not been named, reported the outlet. A police official on the condition of anonymity told The Quint that there was no religious motivation for the crime. The accused claimed that around 5am, they caught Isar lurking around the area and thought that he was a thief, Joy N Tirkey, a top police official, was quoted as saying by The Indian Express newspaper. They asked him questions but he was unable to reply properly since he was mentally challenged. They then tied him to an electric pole and thrashed him. The victims father told police that Isar was lying outside the house and writhing in pain, with injury marks all over his body, when he was found. He was brought home by one of their neighbours and died from his injuries shortly after, reported the Press Trust of India. A post mortem report showed blunt-force injuries all over the victims body, including his head, back, arms and legs, reported The Indian Express citing a police source. The cause of death was said to be shock and haemorrhage. 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 }} More than 330,000 students in Indias Bihar state have been expelled for remaining absent for more than 15 days from their schools. The state is known in India for its poor track record in matters related to education and grapples with having the lowest literacy rate in the entire country, apart from scoring poorly in several human development indices as well. Several instances of cheating in exams have often been reported from Bihar, and in one flabbergasting instance from 2015, parents helped their children cheat by climbing more than five floors of a building. In the current move to expel the students, the states education department has warned students to mend their ways, reported The Telegraph India. It said that the students who have remained absent from public schools for more than 15 days at a stretch have been disenrolled, according to several reports. And the number of expelled primary and secondary school students might just go up as the department continues to inspect schools across the state, with one of its officials claiming around 40,000 schools are being probed on a daily basis. The decision to expel the students was taken by a senior education department official, KK Pathak. Mr Pathak, the additional chief secretary of Bihars education department, also reportedly asked students parents to give an undertaking that they would attend the classes regularly. The education department said the students would be readmitted on the undertaking of their parents and their willingness to attend the classes regularly. The number of students attending schools has substantially increased across the state. However, there are still around 10 per cent of schools where the attendance of students is still less than 50 per cent It is a matter of serious concern, he was quoted as saying by Free Press Journal. We have removed the names of around 3.32 lakh [332,000] students from the rolls of schools across the state, the education departments assistant director Ramesh Chandra was quoted as saying by The Telegraph India. In this photograph taken on 19 March 2015, Indian relatives of students taking school exams climb the walls of the exam building to help pass candidates answers to questions in Vaishali in Bihar (AFP via Getty Images) They were absent for long periods and did not give an undertaking that they would attend the classes regularly. With around 40,000 schools being inspected on a daily basis, the number could increase further. Students, as per Indias education laws, cannot be expelled or denied admission based solely on their academic performance or attendance. The countrys Right to Education (RTE) law mandates children between the ages of six and 14 years have a fundamental right to free and compulsory elementary education. This means every child in this age group has the right to be admitted to and remain in an elementary school until the completion of their elementary education, regardless of their attendance record or academic performance. Discussing the rationale for removing students names from the enrollment records, Mr Chandra claimed a significant number of students have enrolled in multiple schools with the aim of benefiting from various government schemes. Another factor behind removing the names from the rolls is that many students have taken admission in government and private schools at the same time. They attend classes in private schools, Mr Chandra said. There are over 85,000 primary, upper primary, secondary and senior secondary government schools in Bihar. At least 25 million students are currently enrolled in these schools. 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 }} One of Vietnam's top climate activists was sentenced to three years in prison on charges of tax evasion on Thursday. Hoang Thi Minh Hong is the fifth activist to be sentenced over graft charges, in what appears to be the communist government's crackdown on climate activists opposing Hanois policies. Ms Hong was convicted of tax evasion at a trial in Ho Chi Minh City that lasted half a day. She has been accused of dodging tax payments worth 6.7bn dong ($274,488) during the 2012-2022 period. Ms Hong was the director of an environment advocacy group that she ran from 2013 till last year. She was made to pay a fine of 100m dong ($4,098), her lawyer Nguyen Van Tu said, adding that she has 15 days to make a decision to appeal the verdict. Ms Hong was the first Vietnamese to visit Antarctica in 1997 and was hailed by former president Barack Obama in 2018 for mobilising "a youth-led movement to create a greener world", Reuters reported. "This conviction is a total fraud, nobody should be fooled by it," said Ben Swanton, co-director of The 88 Project charity. He said that the conviction was yet another example of how the government weaponises the law to persecute climate activists. Climate activists tend to get harsher sentences than others who evade taxes in Vietnam, he added. Ms Hong asked for leniency at the trial so that she could "return and continue to contribute to the society and the country", according to the Thanh Nien newspaper. If Vietnam is serious about tackling climate change, it must release all environmental activists, campaigners and experts from jail now," said Ming Yu Hah, Amnesty's regional campaigns director. The international community must condemn this verdict and urge Vietnam to drop all criminal charges against environmental activists. The sentencing comes just days after Ngo Nhien, executive director of Vietnam Initiative for Energy Transition (VIETSE), was detained by the police on 15 September. At the time of her arrest, she was working closely with the Vietnamese government in providing technical and policy advice for the development of the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), the Vietnam Climate Defenders Coalition said in a statement. The JETP is a $15.5bn agreement made between Vietnam and G7 nations to support the country's transition to renewable energy sources. The pact is aimed at helping the South Asian nation to bring forward the target year to peak its greenhouse gas to 2030, from a previous 2035 projection. Ms Nhien is held without charges and the government is yet to officially announce her arrest, the rights group alleged. "We are aware of the arrest and are following the developments with concern," Ravina Shamdasani, a spokesperson for the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights said. "Vietnam is already in violation of the 'just' aspect of the JETP while civil society is severely constrained in its ability to participate," said Maureen Harris, senior advisor for International Rivers and a coordinator of the Vietnam Climate Defenders Coalition. "This latest arrest creates a chilling effect for anyone involved in the development of the JETP, as it signals that no independent voices in energy policy are safe." There is mounting pressure on the Western countries, especially the US to condemn the arrests in the wake of Joe Biden's historic visit to Vietnam, where the two nations reportedly discussed protection of human rights. Mr Biden left Vietnam on 11 September after having upgraded diplomatic relations and sealed multiple deals with Hanoi's leaders, drawing criticism from rights groups who accused him of sidelining issues of human rights. Washington had previously raised concerns over the sentencing of environmentalist Nguy Thi Khanh in June last year, calling on the government to release her. Ms Khanh was among the five climate activists Hoang Thi Minh Hong, Dang Dinh Bach, Mai Phan Loi, and Bach Hung Duong jailed on what critics call "trumped up charges". As of early this month, Vietnam was holding at least 159 political prisoners and was detaining 22 others pending trial, according to Human Rights Watch. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The Taoiseach has expressed a desire for government to be less cautious in its approach to policymaking. Leo Varadkar also warned of the potential for multinational companies that invest so heavily in Ireland to relocate elsewhere if the state fails to sustain an environment that allows them to prosper. Mr Varadkar also cautioned future governments not to raid an infrastructure fund being created by the current coalition with part of the multibillion-euro tax surplus generated by the multinationals. The Taoiseach made the comments as he fielded questions at an event at Grant Thorntons offices in Dublin to mark the opening of the professional services firms new Mobius workspace area, which has been designed to improve collaboration with clients. I think if I knew what I know now, there are decisions that we made that we would have made sooner Leo Varadkar During the event, the Fine Gael leader reflected on his time in government and was also pressed on his priorities for the forthcoming Budget. Mr Varadkar said the economy had bounced back from the banking crisis, Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic faster than expected. I think if I knew what I know now, there are decisions that we made that we would have made sooner, he said. So, we really ramped up capital spending and investment in infrastructure since 2018. If wed known that we were going to bounce back so well and so quickly, both from the crisis 12 years ago and from the pandemic, we would have done more sooner, which is why Ive spoken before about one of the biggest risks I think in policymaking is excessive caution. And youve always got civil servants and advisory bodies advising caution, but theres a cost to excessive caution and among the things that would have been done in those early years, and they had to be done, was slashing the budgets for things like housing and transport. And theres a cost to that and we can see what that cost is. He added: The way I think about it is in 12 years Ive served in government, weve had three major external shocks one the global financial crisis and the banking crisis here; the second was Brexit; and the third was the pandemic. And in all three occasions we bounced back much more quickly and much more strongly than we thought would be the case, than anyone thought would be the case. So thats kind of got me to the space where I think we need to be less cautious about decisions we make for the future and more ambitious. Of course, the time will come when that doesnt happen, by the way. That will come when it comes, and we wont bounce back as quickly as we hope to. Thats why we need to build resilience. Mr Varadkar said the Government would use the surplus to build that resilience. He said it would be partly used to bring down the debt with money also diverted to two new funds one to address future pension costs and the second an infrastructure reserve, which future governments could use to maintain spending on capital projects at times of economic difficulty. What weve done historically in Ireland is when we get into economic trouble, its the capital budgets that get cut fastest because thats understandable, he said. Its much easier to delay a new road or delay a metro or delay a school building than cut peoples pay and welfare and increase taxes. So, the whole idea of this (infrastructure) fund is that itll be counter-cyclical and if and when we do have the next downturn, the next time the public finances go into significant deficit, that we will then be able to draw on that fund to bolster capital spending, or at least maintain capital spending at the same levels. The big challenge for whoever is in government at that time, and I dont know when thats going to be, but at some point there will be another recession, and the public finances will be in the red, the challenge for the people at that time will be to not raid those funds for other things. And thats going to be the test whenever it comes. Mr Varadkar said he could not predict whether he would still be in government when the next economic downturn happened. I dont know when the next major economic crisis is going to come, he said. Or when the next downturn will happen. I do hope, if it isnt me, its people who think like me, who were there at the time. I would fear the decisions that others might make if they were genuinely faced with dealing with a crisis, given their history. Mr Varadkar said the Budget would prioritise three areas those struggling with the cost-of-living crisis; support for small businesses; and measures to tackle child poverty. On Irelands chronic housing shortages, the Taoiseach said current supply was meeting demand in terms of the population rises Ireland was experiencing. He said the problems stemmed from the lack of homes built during the post-crash years of 2010-2017. I think supply is probably at the point where its meeting demand, the problem is we have a deficit, he said. Mr Varadkar was also asked about entrepreneurship and whether Ireland took multinational investment for granted. He insisted his Government did not take it for granted. My concern, and I dont want to get too political on this, is that there are people in Ireland who I think do take FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) for granted, he said. And just think itll be there to pay for staff, and pay the taxes and carry out the investments, no matter how restricted. And one thing a very wealthy person said to me once, he said to me, Ill never forget it, I was a first-time minister at the time, he said to me wealth goes where it wants to and stays where its treated well. And if we were to stop treating multinationals well and stop treating business well, whether its big or small, money and jobs and trade will go elsewhere. At Thursdays event at its City Quay offices, Grant Thornton Ireland announced that it was ahead of its planned growth targets. The firm said turnover will hit 300 million euro by the end of the year, while its workforce has grown to 3,000, with half of those roles created in the past two years. 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 }} At least eight Greek villages were ordered to be evacuated after another powerful storm hit the central parts of the country, flooding rural areas and sweeping away roads. The storm Elias caused extensive flooding in the central city of Volos, turning it into a lake. Elias comes less than a month after the deaths and destruction caused by Storm Daniel. All of Volos has turned into a lake, the citys mayor Achilleas Beos told state television, according to The Associated Press. The fire service carried out multiple rescues and evacuations on Wednesday as torrential rains prompted by the storm left large areas cut off. Hundreds of people were left stranded nearby mountain villages, authorities said. Peoples lives are in danger, said Mr Beos, adding that he himself remained trapped. Eighty per cent of the city is without power. I dont know where God found so much water. Its like the story of Noahs Ark, he said. Apart from the eight villages evacuated near Volos, residents in large parts were urged to stay indoors on Wednesday as floodwaters rose and road traffic was banned in Volos. The worst damage was reported from Volos and the island of Evia, where peoples homes were flooded with mud-water and large parts faced power cuts. Photos and videos showed floodwaters gushing through the streets after the torrential downpour. I have never seen anything like this, Apostolis Dafereras, 83, who has lived in a suburb of the Volos since 1955, told AP. So far, there have been no reports of death but flooding has damaged several roads, homes and bridges. The new storm comes just weeks after flooding prompted by the deadly Storm Daniel struck the same area, killing 16 people, and causing more than 2bn euros ($2.3bn) in damage to farms and infrastructure. It also follows deadly wildfires that caused record destruction in the summer. Repeatedly battered by extreme weather events, the Greek government on Wednesday declared that adapting to climate crisis has become a national priority. I will restate the obvious: The frequency of (weather) assaults due to the climate crisis is something that requires us to integrate civil protection (in our response), prime minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis told a Cabinet meeting Wednesday. Adaptation to the climate crisis is a fundamental priority in all our policies. 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 }} Arnold Schwarzenegger has opened up about the unusual, but effective parenting methods hes used over the years. The former governor of California is the father of four children: sons Christopher, 26, Patrick, 30, and daughters Christina, 31, and Katherine, 33, who he shares with ex Maria Shriver. In an interview with People he explained just how memorable his tactics were. You could talk to them about what they liked about their upbringing because they have very humorous stories, the actor told the outlet. The first one is Katherine ... As a matter of fact, Katherine comes over with [her three-year-old daughter] Lyla and she says: Lyla, I told you already not to put the shoes there. Keep your shoes on or you put them away, but you dont leave them there by the stand in front of the fireplace because you know what Daddy did? When I left my shoes there twice? The third time, he burned them in front of me and I cried. Not only did he confirm that he did in fact burn a pair of his daughters shoes once, but he jokingly pointed out that it is a tactic that Katherine now uses on her own daughter. Now uses the same methods which she cried over and that she complained about, Schwarzenegger said. He also discussed a time when his son Patrick was nine years old and hed thrown his sons mattress out the window because he didnt make his bed. I opened up the door to the balcony, picked up the mattress and threw it down with the bedsheets, the pillows, everything. I said, dont ever make someone come in and clean your room, clean your shower or make your bed, Schwarzenegger said. I said: Because I taught you how to make the bed. According to the actor, he and Patrick also used to battle over long showers. He said his first attempt was to simply tell his son to take shorter showers. Its over, no more showers. Five minutes, one shower, and then thats it and were turning it off, Schwarzenegger recalled. Although the method worked for a few days, Patrick quickly went back to taking long hot showers - so Schwarzenegger came up with another idea. In Munich, they have the showers that have those timers that people put money into and then after the money ran out, the cold water came out. I said: Im going to get one like that, and thats exactly what I got, he explained. And so when he got the shower on and he was whistling and singing in there and thinking Daddys not around, all the sudden the ice-cold shower came on. And all of a sudden, we heard downstairs, the scream. Despite his childrens reactions to his methods, The Terminator star said its now become something they joke about, to the point of Katherine bragging about how tough her father was. He said his goal with his parenting techniques was never to be a drill sergeant, but rather because he just happened to grow up with nothing. Every pair of shoes that I had, of which there was only one pair, I washed every day and cleaned every day and I put them away. So I said: I want you guys to do the same thing, even though you have many shoes. Just put them away in the mudroom. We have a mudroom, put them in the mudroom because I dont want to go and clean up your shoes, he said. 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 }} Chelsea Handler has set the record straight after fans were convinced she debuted her new boyfriend on social media. On 27 September, the 48-year-old comedian appeared to debut a new romance on her Instagram Story. In the snap, Handler was seen kissing a man on the cheek as he wrapped his arms around her. "This is my baby. He is full of love and positivity and his body is my wonderland, she captioned the post, referencing John Mayers hit 2001 song, Your Body Is a Wonderland. I love my baby and now I go back to work, Handler continued, before promoting her two shows at the Beacon Theatre in New York City over the weekend. However, Chandler later took to her Instagram Story once again to clarify her relationship status and reveal the mystery mans identity. My vacation is over you guys, and now my publicists are calling me, she said in a follow-up video. They just texted me with a Google thing of me saying, Chelsea Handler announces new boyfriend on Instagram. I did not announce new boyfriend on Instagram, Handler joked. That man was, is, the bartender right next door to my house in Mallorca, and thats why hes my baby. She added that she simply called the bartender her baby because he made me so many drinks. Handler shared that shes even received texts from her cousins asking if she indeed does have a new boyfriend. Baby doesnt mean boyfriend, she explained. I cant believe I have to clarify things like this. (Instagram / Chelsea Handler) The former Chelsea Lately host was previously in a relationship with fellow comedian Jo Koy. In July 2022, the pair announced their breakup in an Instagram video they initially recorded to mark their one-year anniversary. Instead, the former couple decided together that it is best for us to take a break from our relationship right now. This man blew my heart open with love and because of him, my life experience has changed forever, Handler wrote in the caption, praising Koy. To be loved and adored by Jo Koy has been one of the greatest gifts of my life. He renewed my faith in men, in love, in being 100 per cent who I am, and Ive never been more optimistic for the future. Five months later, Handler opened up about how difficult her breakup was with the actor, describing it as one of her seminal or now what moments in life. I really believed that this was my guy, she told actor Brooke Shields on the Now What? podcast in December. I thought: Oh my god, I won. Like I got everything. I have my career, I have respect, I have my family, I have so many friends, I have all of these things. And then I thought this was gonna be the person I spend my life with. Handler explained that, towards the end of the relationship, it soon became clear that Koy was not my person. I am not going to change the way that I behave in order to make you feel more comfortable. Im not doing that, and I had to walk away from something that I really believed was gonna be a forever relationship, she maintained. So that was difficult. However, the comedian remains hopeful for the future, she said on the We Can Do Hard Things with Glennon Doyle podcast, despite the emotional rollercoaster of her breakup with Koy. As painful as the ending of something like that is, Im so well-versed in therapy and understanding that every door shutting is a new beginning and I do believe it, she said. 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 }} Bonnie Wright has announced the birth of her first child, sharing the babys name and first photo with her social media followers. The 32-year-old actor is best known for playing Ginny Weasley in the Harry Potter film series, which concluded in 2012. In April, she and her husband Andrew Lococo told fans that they were expecting their first child together. On Wednesday (27 September), Wright shared that shed given birth at home last week, along with a photo of the newborn asleep under a blanket. Say hello to Elio Ocean Wright Lococo, born at home on Tuesday 19th September, Wrights caption began. Were all healthy and happy. Andrew and I are so in love with our sun, she wrote, adding a sun emoji. She continued her caption by praising the doula, midwives, doctor and other maternity professionals for their amazing work. So grateful for our birth team that have held our hands throughout and made the journey so joyous and expanding, Wright continued. Birth is the wildest experience! The actor and writer concluded her caption with a short tribute to Lococo. Lastly thanks to Andrew my rock throughout birth quite literally as I squeezed onto you so tight and you never wavered. Elio has the most tender loving papa. In response to the post, many fans and friends of the film star shared warm wishes in the comment section. Evanna Lynch, who played quirky Hogwarts student Luna Lovegood in four Harry Potter films, is one notable figure to have left a congratulatory message and pointed out an unexpected link to the wizarding franchise. Awwww congratulations Bonnie and Andrew!!! Welcome to Earth, Elio Ocean!!! ps. Hermiones birthday twin, Im sure youve been told!! the Irish actor wrote. Others were quick to make references to the film series, with several naming the birth as the arrival of another Weasley. Bonnie Wright and Andrew Lococo (Instagram / Bonnie Wright) In August, Wright posted photos and video from her and Lococos baby moon in Laguna Beach, California, as they celebrated their last quiet holiday as just two. The couple married on 19 March 2022, a day that Wright has since described as the best day of my life. In an interview with Brides magazine earlier this year, she spoke about how her passion for sustainability was reflected in their choices for the ceremony, as well as in her vintage, century-old wedding dress. The dress didnt have the original underdress with it as it had likely perished it being 100 years old! she explained. So when I was first trying it on, it was completely see-through. It was quite funny having to imagine the underdress we would end up making for it. 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 }} One in five parents in households earning less than 50,000 leave the workforce due to childcare costs, new research from a womens charity has found. Pregnant Then Screwed surveyed 11,811 parents with children under five and over half said childcare costs and availability issues with it were now more of a concern than the cost of living. Its affecting households at the lower end of the income scale the most. For those in households earning under 50,000 in total, who do stay in employment, over three-quarters (76.6%) reduce their hours to make childcare feasible, the research found. Some 42% of parents surveyed also said the cost and availability of childcare has prevented them from having any more children, while almost a third of parents (29%) said they rely on family and friends for childcare help. The charity said the UK has one of the most expensive childcare systems in the world and that costs are rising, while incomes typically arent. The survey found that, in the last 10 months, 41% of parents have seen their childcare fees increase by 5-10%. For 14% of parents, it rose by more than 10% in that time. Joeli Brearley, founder and CEO of Pregnant Then Screwed, said the the cost of having a child today is one that many families cannot bear. She said: Our crumbling childcare sector continues to push new families into debt and onto benefits work does not pay when you have a young child. We currently have the lowest birth rate in the last 20 years in Britain, and yet we are making it harder and harder for families to afford to have children. Childcare isnt just somewhere for young children to go while their parents are at work, she pointed out. It is the earliest education for our children and plays a huge role in supporting childrens emotional and physical development. In March, chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced reforms in the Budget, providing an extra 4 billion over three years. He also announced that in all eligible households in England, every child under five will receive 30 hours a week of free childcare when maternity leave ends. Critics have pointed out that this will not be in place until September 2025, however. Brearley said: The [childcare] sector needs immediate investment and an ambitious workforce strategy if the promise of the budget is to be made a reality. 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 }} Love Is Blinds creator has addressed the inhumane working conditions allegations from former contestants. In 2022, season two participant Jeremy Hartwell sued Netflix and production company Kinetic Content, citing inhumane working conditions. A year later, in a report from Insider, season twos Nick Thompson and Danielle Ruhl alleged that there was a lack of mental health support on set. Although Kinetic Content has largely denied the allegations and reports, CEO Chris Coelen spoke to Variety at length about the working conditions on the set. He claimed that cast members are both physically and mentally protected throughout the process. Hartwell alleged in his lawsuit that the productions isolation was intense, and claimed that the Netflix cast was left alone for hours on end with no access to a phone, food, or any other type of contact with the outside world. According to Coelen, production was transparent from the very beginning about what filming would entail, adding that Thompsons claims of being held prisoner were insane. The Kinetic Content CEO continued: We tell them that they wont be able to travel freely while theyre in the pods. We tell them they wont have phones or TV or internet service in the pods or in their hotel rooms where they stay or in the romantic getaways. Youre asked to stay in your hotel to protect the integrity of the experiment, Coelen continued. We disconnect their phones and internet so they cant get online because people are tempted to look people up. In Hartwells ongoing lawsuit, he also alleged that the 20-hour work day as well as lack of access to food and water led to inhumane working conditions on set. Meanwhile, Coelen said that participants were able to go back to their hotel rooms at any time, were given multiple meals a day, and had access to bottled water and working sinks in the lounge. Coelen also addressed Ruhls admission that she informed production that she had past issues with suicidal ideation but that she was cast anyway. In response to the allegation, Coelen said: These are very serious issues that she describes, and if her recent allegations about her mental health history are true, unfortunately she didnt disclose this before filming. While filming in Mexico, Ruhl reportedly began to struggle with suicidal ideation and informed producers that she didnt trust herself and wanted to leave before anything bad happened. Coelen alleged Ruhls claims are untrue. She didnt inform the production team that she was having any thoughts of self-harm. If she had, we wouldnt have continued to film with her, he responded. She never asked anyone in production ever to leave the show. She was free to leave the experiment at any time. In the report from Insider, former Love Is Blind participants claimed that they did not have access to therapists while on set, a claim which Coelen also refuted. He told Variety that there were two psychologists present on the set while the participants were filming in the pods, and access to a 24/7 hotline from then on out. After the show, Coelen said that the company encourages participants to try therapy and offers to cover the costs. Variety has viewed multiple emails between production and cast members, backing up Coelens claims. Weve consistently offered to reimburse the costs of Ms Ruhls post-filming therapy, Coelen added. Weve reached out to her privately, and wed love to be in contact with her. He continued: We consistently reiterate to people at the end of their time in the experiment: We really urge you to seek aftercare. Even for people who dont feel like they need it, I encourage it, because I think youve spent a lot of time here talking about your feelings, and to all of a sudden just stop talking about your feelings, to me, would not be the best course of action. It wasnt something I specifically noted in the application itself, Ruhl backtracked in a conversation with Variety. I had conversations with producers. I had conversations with therapists, but to their point, it was nothing that had been written down, so whether or not something had been communicated to them, I dont know, she says. I will admit that, at the time of filming, I did say that I was in a really good mental space. 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 lone gunman wearing a bulletproof vest opened fire in an apartment and a hospital in the Dutch port city of Rotterdam on Thursday, killing two people and seriously injuring a 14-year-old girl, police said. The shooting sent patients and medics fleeing the Erasmus Medical Center in downtown Rotterdam, including some who were wheeled out of the building in beds. Others barricaded themselves into rooms and stuck hand-written signs to windows to show their location. Police Chief Fred Westerbeke told reporters that the shooter was a 32-year-old student from Rotterdam. He was arrested at the hospital carrying a firearm. His identity was not released, and the motive for the shootings was still under investigation. He first shot and killed a 39-year-old woman and seriously injured her 14-year-old daughter at an apartment close to where the suspect lived, Police Chief Fred Westerbeke said. The shooter then went to the nearby Erasmus Medical Center where he shot and killed a 46-year-old man, a teacher at the academic hospital, the police chief added. He also started fires at the scenes of both shootings. The suspect was cooperating with police, Westerbeke said. It was a black day, said Rotterdam Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb. Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima expressed their sympathy on social media. Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the victims of the violence this afternoon in Rotterdam, the royal pair wrote. We also think of everybody who lived in fear during these terrible actions, they added. The Erasmus Medical Center appealed on social media for people not to go to the hospital, but later said it was reopening. There have been scores of small explosions and at homes and businesses across Rotterdam this year, blamed on rival drug gangs. There was no immediate suggestion that Thursday's shooting was linked to the feuding drug gangs. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The American soldier who sprinted into North Korea across the heavily fortified border between the Koreas two months ago has arrived back in the U.S. in San Antonio, Texas early Thursday, local affiliate video appeared to show. Pvt. Travis Kings release was secured with the help of ally Sweden and rival China, the White House said Wednesday, North Korea said it would expel King earlier the same day. 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 }} UK governments must bear the majority of the blame for failing to halt abusive child migration schemes, an inquiry has found. Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry chairwoman Lady Smith has published her second volume of findings on the historic migration of children from Scotland. Her first volume, published in March, found the child migration system was abusive and resulted in many children being abused. What is particularly striking is the failure of successive UK governments to terminate the practice of child migration; these governments must bear the brunt of the blame for the continuation of child migration policies Lady Smith On Thursday, she said: My findings in volume one alone show clearly that, however well-intentioned some of those who advocated for child migration may have been, the policy of child migration and the systems under which it operated were deeply flawed. The second volume of findings reinforces this view. What is particularly striking is the failure of successive UK governments to terminate the practice of child migration; these governments must bear the brunt of the blame for the continuation of child migration policies. Successive UK governments supported the practice. That support began with legislation that recognised the potential of child migration as a means of populating the Dominions. And pressure came from receiving countries, such as Australia, which badly wanted to increase its population with white stock. I reject without hesitation any notion that any conclusion that the policy was deeply flawed is the product of a view that distorts the past by viewing it through the lens of today. It is obvious that it was deeply flawed at the time. The latest volume focuses on the history of child migration, the policies, systems and legislation under which it operated, and the responses of various organisations to questions about their involvement in it. From the latter part of the 19th century until well into the second half of the 20th century, many thousands of children were sent away from Scotland, mainly to Canada and Australia. Lady Smith found many of the children migrated had been abused while in care in Scotland, some were abused en route their destinations and many were also abused in the institutions they were sent to. She said for all those migrated, the risk of abuse at their destinations was high, and child migration was publicly considered as potentially abusive as early as 1875. Former child migrants are still, too often, unsupported in practical and emotional ways, with their histories continuing to be left in the dark Lady Smith She said: Abuse began at the outset, unacceptable practices being inherent in the systems and procedures applied at the stages of selecting children and making arrangements for their migration. It continued in receiving countries and institutions, where children were exposed to harsh and neglectful conditions, used as slave labour, and were physically, emotionally, and sexually abused by individuals who owed them a duty of care. She added that the UK Government enthusiastically pursued a policy of child migration, adding: The UK Government knew about the risk and actuality of this abuse and yet, for political and financial gains, allowed the schemes to continue operating. Former child migrants are still, too often, unsupported in practical and emotional ways, with their histories continuing to be left in the dark. She said in some cases pressure came from receiving countries, such as as Australia, which wished to increase its white stock, and the perception that care would be cheaper abroad was an influential factor. The report found child migrants had nowhere to turn to and inspection systems in Canada and Australia were inadequate. Lady Smith said concerns were raised over the risk of abuse while migration schemes were ongoing, as well as over missed education, poor conditions and ineffective inspections and the system should have been dealt a fatal blow by a critical 1956 report, but instead continued for decades. She said the UK Government was aware of these concerns but did little, and regulations on migration envisaged in 1948 never materialised largely due to a backlash from the organisations which would be affected, which she said was an indefensible state failure. She concluded that the powerful testimony of former child migrants endorsed and developed what was found by other inquiries: that, however well-intentioned some of the proponents of child migration may have been, the policy of child migration was flawed. Lady Smith said: It severed children from families and their home country, resulting in a devasting loss of identity compounded by an exposure to abusive regimes. Children were treated as commodities, traded to countries like Canada and Australia to promote political, economic, and social agendas. Many child migrants bore the psychological scars associated with migration into adulthood and sadly, for far too many, to the grave. She noted that apologies from the Australian and UK Governments, as well as a redress scheme by the latter, have been mostly well received. Canada received the majority of child migrants, with an estimated 80,000 children dispatched from the UK to Canada by 1920. Despite contemporary reports that exposed the failings and abuse of those sent, children continued to be migrated there until 1948. After the Second World War, Australia became the most popular destination for child migration, and between 1912 and 1970 about 7,000 children were migrated from the UK to Australia. The inquiry found it is not possible to say how many child migrants originated in Scotland but probably about 8,088 children had been sent from Scotland to Canada by the 1920s and some were sent thereafter. And at least 370 children were sent to Australia from Scotland over significant periods both pre- and post-Second World War. The inquiry, which aims to raise public awareness of the abuse of children in care, is considering evidence up to December 17 2014, and which is within the living memory of any person who suffered abuse. The UK Government has been contacted for comment. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The BBC has set out new rules for flagship presenters after a tweet by Gary Lineker prompted an impartiality row. The corporation has published specific guidance, as part of its social media review, for high-profile presenters hosting flagship programmes, which they must adhere to while the programme is on air and for a two-week window before and after the series. Presenters on flagship shows must not endorse or attack a political party, criticise the character of individual politicians in the UK, or take up an official role in campaigning groups, it said. The BBC named Dragons Dens Evan Davis, The One Shows Alex Jones, MasterChef hosts John Torode and Gregg Wallace, and Match Of The Days Mark Chapman and Lineker among those who fall under the rules. Similarly, Strictly Come Dancing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, The Apprentices Lord Alan Sugar and Antiques Roadshows Fiona Bruce will also have to adhere to the new rules. BBC radio presenters Greg James, Zoe Ball, Vernon Kay and Scott Mills were also named as presenters of flagship programmes. The corporation said the guidance does not include contributors, pundits, judges or guest hosts but does apply to presenters of major sporting events and Top Gear which is currently not in production. The new guidance comes after an independent review was conducted by former ITN boss John Hardie, following Linekers brief BBC suspension after he compared the language used to launch a new government asylum seeker policy with that of 1930s Germany on X, formerly known as Twitter. Former England striker Lineker described the BBCs updated social media guidance as all very sensible on X. Setting out his recommendations, Mr Hardie said: High-profile presenters outside of journalism should be able to express views on issues and policies including matters of political contention but stop well short of campaigning in party politics or for activist organisations. Mr Hardie spoke to more than 80 people, both inside and outside the BBC as part of the review. BBC director-general Tim Davie said: We all have a responsibility to treat people with civility and respect, particularly at a time when public debate and discussion, both on and offline, can be so polarised. The BBC also has important commitments to both freedom of expression and impartiality and this rightly extends to social media. I would, therefore, like to thank John Hardie, and all those who took part in this review, for such a thorough, clear and considered report. Clarity on how those working for the BBC use social media is not only important for them and the organisation but also for our audiences. The new guidance, which includes new requirements for presenters of our flagship programmes, is both proportionate and fair and protects these commitments. The BBC said the specific guidance for flagship programmes is in addition to the existing impartiality guidance for individuals working in news and current affairs and factual journalism production, which remains the same. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The Prime Minister should put ethics high on the agenda when the UK hosts its AI Safety Summit in November, IT professionals have said. A survey of professionals in the computing sector by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, found that a large majority (88%) of those asked would like to see Rishi Sunak ensure the UK takes an international lead on ethical standards in the use of AI. The Government will host the summit at Second World War code-breaking hub Bletchley Park, where the opportunities and risks around the rise of artificial intelligence particularly cutting-edge frontier AI tools such as ChatGPT will be discussed. Earlier this week, Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan said she hoped the summit could be used to establish some voluntary safety standards that AI labs and companies around the world working on the technology could follow. It comes as the technology becomes increasingly prominent in day-to-day life, with regulators beginning to scrutinise the sector more intensely as concerns have appeared over the impact it could have on human life, including the creative arts, job market, and its potential use in cyber warfare. The BCS survey found 82% of those asked believe that firms should be required to publish ethical policies on their use of AI, and 81% said those working within the space should be required to demonstrate their ethical credentials through recognised professional standards. Gillian Arnold, president of BCS, said: Hosting the AI safety Summit is the UKs opportunity to put together a global consensus on ethical use of digital technologies. That includes asking organisations to publish ethical policies on how they create and use tech. It also means having safe whistle-blowing channels for experts working on areas like AI, if they feel theyre being asked to work in a way that compromises their professional standards or discriminates against a section of society. The public needs to have confidence that AI is being created by diverse, ethical teams as it continues to weave itself into our life and work. Agreeing global standards of responsible computing is one way of building that trust. In the survey, BCS members said they would like to see ethical standards implemented most quickly across the health and care sector, as well as in defence, criminal justice, banking and education. A Government spokesperson said: The focus of the global AI Safety Summit will be on frontier AI. This is where the risks are most novel and urgent, given how rapidly it is developing and its potential to exhibit dangerous capabilities. These discussions will complement work taking place in other international forums, where the UK has already been actively working with partners to develop ethical standards around AI. One of our key aims is to establish areas for potential collaboration on AI safety research, including evaluating capabilities and developing new standards to support how we govern AI. 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 }} Britain is the poor man of Europe on insulation and needs a national retrofit mission to catch up, campaigners have said. Net zero tsar Chris Skidmore has called for a national retrofit delivery agency to drive uptake of insulation and heat pumps in order to make the UKs homes greener and more energy efficient. Launching a report on how Britain can retrofit its leaky homes, he said: We know that Britain is the poor man of Europe when it comes to energy insulation and clean heat. Our homes lose heat the fastest 3C in five hours compared to 0.3C in Sweden. We are bottom of the league when it comes to heat pump installation, 21 out of 21, installing just 30,000 heat pumps to Frances 500,000. As a result, 80% of our domestic heating is gas, compared to 50% in the rest of Europe. For myself, the case is so obvious, so overwhelming, that retrofit isnt and could never be termed, to borrow a phrase from the Prime Minister, expensive insulation. It is the easiest and most effective opportunity we have to reduce our demand for expensive fossil fuels, enhancing our energy security, and saving householders money on their bills, and saving society the wider costs of poor and draughty homes. His comments come a week after Rishi Sunak watered down several net zero policies, including delaying the ban on new gas boiler installations to 2035 and scrapping requirements for private rented homes to meet new minimum energy efficiency standards by 2025. Mr Sunak said the Government would continue to subsidise energy efficiency measures and expanded some schemes to help achieve that but added he would never force any household to do it. In a speech on Tuesday, Tory MP Mr Skidmore welcomed the extra money for the boiler upgrade scheme and the introduction of the Great British Insulation Scheme, but said the UK needs to be more ambitious. He said: The announcement by the Prime Minister in September 2023 to delay energy efficiency measures, and to delay the implementation of a new gas boiler end date, will likely have a detrimental impact on the wider retrofit and clean heat sector. After recent announcements rowing back on energy efficiency measures, the Government, or if not this administration, whoever forms a government in 2024, should provide urgent leadership by expanding the Great British Insulation Scheme into a national retrofit mission. Campaign group Friends of the Earth welcomed Mr Skidmores proposals. The groups head of policy, Mike Childs, said: Action to fix the scandal of Britains heat-leaking homes is long overdue. Not only are cash-strapped households forced to pay far higher bills than necessary, it also means far more carbon pollution is being pumped into our atmosphere. A national retrofit programme should be a no brainer. It would cut bills, boost energy security and slash carbon emissions. Thats why we need a free street-by-street insulation programme, focussing on neighbourhoods most in need funded by a proper windfall tax on the vast profits of fossil fuel giants. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The family of a teenage girl stabbed to death while making her way to a south London school have paid heartbreaking tribute to their beautiful 15-year-old. GCSE student Elianne Andam was on her way to Old Palace of John Whitgift School in Croydon when she was attacked and killed on Wednesday morning. Her devastated family broke their silence today revealing how their lives have been plunged into darkness following the loss of the beloved schoolgirl, who dreamed of being a lawyer after graduating from the top private school funded by her NHS nurse mother. Eliannes aunt, Marian, said the schoolgirls mother had been paying for her daughter to go to the 20,000 per year private school so she could go on to have a bright future. Have you been affected by this incident? Email barney.davis@independent.co.uk But Eliannes future has been cut short after the horror killing, which occurred on Wednesday when the teenager was reportedly stabbed in the neck after stepping in to protect her friend, who it is claimed had rejected flowers from an ex-boyfriend. A 17-year-old boy who was arrested in New Addington, south London, just over an hour after the stabbing, remains in custody under questioning by the Metropolitan Police. Police were granted a 12-hour custody extension Thursday morning to question the teenager. A post-mortem examination is due to take place on Thursday afternoon. Speaking to reporters today, the family revealed their agony of having lost the light of our lives. A spokesperson for her family said: Our hearts are broken by the senseless death of our daughter. Elianne was the light of our lives. She was bright and funny, with many friends who all adored her. She was only 15, and had her whole life ahead of her, with hopes and dreams for the future. All those dreams have now been shattered. Our lives have fallen apart, along with that of our wider family. Elianne was on her way to school (Family Handout) Dozens of bunches of flowers have been left at the scene of the teenagers death amid widespread shock at the tragedy. Police officers who were among the first at the scene and battled to try to save Elianne appeared visibly moved as they laid flowers close to where the schoolgirl died. Among the floral tributes, cards and candles, one message read: Rest in peace little princess so sad your life is taken away at your prime. You have touched my soul. You just cant comprehend the heartbreak of the last 24-hours, how Elianne went to school and never came home, Eliannes aunt Marian told Mail Online. Were a big family and we are all here for our sister, to support her, were a big family this has left us absolutely devastated. My sister is not feeling good, this only happened yesterday. It hasnt sunk in yet, its a tragedy. The teenager wanted to be a lawyer, her family said (Met Police) She wanted to be a lawyer, she went to private school paid for by my sister and had a great future ahead of her. She was a lovely girl, she loved doing her hair, had beautiful natural hair and she really loved gymnastics, her aunt told the publication. It is understood a boy tried to give a bouquet of flowers to his ex-girlfriend on a Number 60 double-decker bus packed with other schoolchildren when the tragedy unfolded. The fatal attack was launched after they got off the bus when the girl is said to have rejected the bouquet of flowers. Elianne was said to have intervened to help her friend before a boy reportedly pulled out the serrated zombie knife and plunged it into her neck. Family and friends carrying flowers gathered at her NHS specialist nurse mothers house less than half a mile away from where Elianne was fatally wounded. The scene near the Whitgift shopping centre in Croydon (PA Wire) Neighbour Rochelle Beaumont, 30, said she had been there in the aftermath of the attack and saw Eliannes body being put on a stretcher. She told The Independent: I was just taking my son on a scooter ride around Croydon when I saw all the police and people trying to revive her. My friend was with her trying to help and said she just didnt stand a chance. Her toes werent moving, she was unresponsive. He is really traumatised even though it didnt happen to him. I saw them put the tent up and I knew she didnt make it. She must have walked past me so many times, its such a small and terrible world. She was going to a good school, had her whole life ahead of her and then that happens. I have six boys myself and Im scared to let them out of the house. Some 15 young people have been killed in stabbings or shootings so far this year (PA) Emergency services were called to Wellesley Road, near the Whitgift shopping centre, at around 8.30am on Wednesday after receiving reports that the schoolgirl had been stabbed. She was initially helped by a bus driver and a passer-by until the arrival of paramedics, but despite efforts to save her, she was pronounced dead 40 minutes later. Witnesses reported paramedics battling to save her life, while two other schoolgirls, believed to be her friends, attempted to get through the police barriers. People arrive to pay their respects at the scene (James Manning/PA) Speaking to The Independent, Katia Brito, 22, said: I arrived at the scene at 9.02am and the two buses had stopped. The tent was up and emergency services were trying to keep her alive. Kids were running under the underpass. Anthony King, chair of My Ends a project helping combat youth violence in Croydon, was with the girls family after the incident and said they were heartbroken. He added: She had a bright future ahead of her. She was in her GCSE year. Mr King described the girl as an absolutely incredible young lady and told of how others said she was jovial, very comedic. Earlier on Thursday, pastor Lorraine Jones told Sky News that the weapon reportedly used to slash her neck reminded her of the blade that took the life of her own son. Mother of murder victim says fatal Croydon stabbing echoed what killed her son You cant imagine the scale of fear and anxiety in our young girls, she told Kay Burley. This will continue until we support the grassroots. I lost my son. I know what [her mother] is going through. I pray she can survive this and she can. I know the father is going through pain too. She urged the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan for additional funding for local anti-crime groups. Scotland Yard confirmed the suspect knew the victim adding: Further enquiries are taking place to establish their exact relationship. A number of police vehicles cordoned off the Route 60 bus, which had been heading towards Streatham Station, while forensic officers continue to examine the scene. Police said officers were confident Elianne was attacked near the bus stop in Wellesley Road rather than on board a bus. Police officers lay flowers at the scene in Croydon (James Manning/PA) DCI Rebecca Woodsford, who is leading the investigation, said: My thoughts and the thoughts of my team are with Eliannes family. This is a deeply upsetting time for them and we will do everything we can to support them. Our investigation continues and we are making good progress. We have recovered CCTV from the area and have spoken to a number of witnesses. Forensic scientists have also examined the scene. From these enquiries, we are now confident Elianne was attacked outside in Wellesley Road near to the bus stop rather than onboard the bus. We know many people were in the area at the time and would have witnessed the attack. This would have been distressing and traumatic and I would encourage anyone who needs support to contact us and we will help to arrange this. Anyone who witnessed the attack or has information that can help officers is asked to call police via 101 quoting reference CAD 1601/27Sep. To remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A girl has been stabbed to death in south London as she and her friends made their way to school. Witnesses reported the 15-year-old was stabbed in the neck with a foot-long knife after a girl refused flowers from a boy, causing chaos during the morning rush hour, with teenagers and commuters screaming in panic. Police and paramedics were called at 8.30am to reports a girl had suffered stab wounds on Wellesley Road, near the Whitgift shopping centre. Police and paramedics were called to a stabbing in Croydon on Wednesday morning (Ragu Pathy) A bus driver and a passer-by had initially battled to save her life, while two other schoolgirls, believed to be the victims friends, tried to get through the police cordon. Despite the best efforts of the London Ambulance Service and Air Ambulance, she was pronounced dead at the scene at 9.21am. Have you been affected by this story? If so email holly.evans@independent.co.uk Following information provided to the police, a 17-year-old boy was arrested in New Addington just over an hour later and remains in custody. Old Palace of John Whitgift School, a private all-girls school in Croydon, confirmed that the victim had been a much-loved and valued friend and pupil and sent their condolences to her family. Her family were reportedly told the news by their daughters friends and were devastated by the news. One witness described how he and others had chased a boy, who was carrying a knife which was black, thin and about a foot long. A bouquet of roses left at the scene where the girl was killed (Lucy North/PA Wire) Security worker Victor Asare said: It looked like the girl didnt want the boy to come closer. He then described a boy stabbing the girl in the neck with a black knife. A lot of people came, everyone came off the bus. [The boy] ran away. Everybody was crying and screaming. The girl was on the floor. We tried to catch him and a lot of people tried to save the girl. I was so shocked, I was shaken. Its somebodys daughter. Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain described it as every parents worst nightmare (Lucy North/PA Wire) A TfL bus was cordoned off by emergency services, while resuscitation efforts continued for 40 minutes. A mother-of-two, who wanted to be named only as Bridget, said: I was on the bus before and came off and walked back down, I saw them resuscitating her. The driver was holding her, and a lady. A statement from Old Palace of John Whitgift School said: We are deeply shocked by the senseless and tragic death of our much-loved and valued friend and pupil. It will take some time for the Old Palace community to come to terms with this terrible news, and we will offer support to our pupils as we try to do so. Above all, we send our love and deepest sympathies to the girls family at this unimaginably distressing time. Forensic investigators examining a bus after a 15-year-old girl was stabbed to death (Lucy North/PA Wire) A white tent was erected on the pavement while a number of police cars surrounded the Route 60 bus, which had been heading towards Streatham Station. Around three police vehicles and a dozen officers remained, while a bunch of flowers had been placed next to the forensic tent. James Watkins, from Mainz World which runs prevention and intervention projects for children and young people, said he met with the family at the scene between 9am and 10am and that they were devastated. Paramedics battled to save the girls life but she was pronounced dead less than an hour later (The Independent ) He added: I came down to support the family and some of the young people. We were with the family this morning. They were devastated and I would say more importantly in shock, I dont think it feels real for them. Speaking to the Independent, Katia Brito, 22, said: I arrived at the scene at 9.02am and the two buses had stopped. The tent was up and emergency services were trying to keep her alive. Kids were running under the underpass. Describing it as a hotspot area, community activist Daniyel Thomas said: This is a travesty. We need to galvanise the community. Forensics at the scene around the Route 60 bus (Lucy North/PA Wire) We need local patrols and fathers of the community to watch the streets, this is a hotspot area. Chief Superintendent Brittain, in charge of local policing, said: This is every parents worst nightmare, and I know the officers who responded this morning, along with our emergency service colleagues, are devastated at the victims death. This is an emotion I share and I know people across Croydon will be feeling the same. The victims family has been informed and our thoughts are with them at what must be an incredibly difficult time. In response to the news, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: I am absolutely heartbroken by the death of a 15-year-old girl in Croydon this morning. A teenage boy has been arrested by the Met Police in connection with the incident (Jordan Reynolds/PA Wire) My thoughts and prayers are with this young girls family and friends, and the whole community, at this unimaginably awful time. An arrest has been made in connection with this incident and I am in close contact with the Met Commissioner. The Mayor of Croydon, Jason Perry, wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter): I am devastated to hear that the teenage girl who was stabbed in the town centre this morning has tragically died. The Council are in touch with the police and will fully support their investigations. Our whole communitys thoughts are with the victims family and friends. The schoolgirl is the 16th teenager to be murdered in the capital this year, 13 of whom were stabbed. Anyone who witnessed the attack or has information that can help officers is asked to call police via 101 quoting reference CAD 1601/27Sep. To remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. More follows on this breaking news story 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 }} Tributes have been paid to a much loved 15-year-old girl with a bright future who was stabbed to death on her way to school. The victim, who has not been named, died after being stabbed in the neck with a foot-long knife during the Wednesday morning rush hour in Croydon, south London, a witness said. A 17-year-old boy, who knew the victim, was arrested just over an hour after the attack which took place on busy Wellesley Road at around 8.30am. Flowers at the scene near the Whitgift shopping centre in Croydon (PA Wire) A steady flow of well-wishers left flowers and cards near the scene on Wednesday evening, and the girls school paid tribute to its valued friend and pupil. Have you been affected by this incident? If so email barney.davis@independent.co.uk Anthony King, chairman of My Ends a project helping combat youth violence in Croydon, was with the girls family after the incident and said they were heartbroken. He added: She had a bright future ahead of her. She was in her GCSE year. Mr King described the girl as an absolutely incredible young lady and told of how others said she was jovial, very comedic. He also said the arrested boy had been known to local community groups for the past couple of years. Witnesses said the girl and her alleged attacker were not in a relationship. One of the cards left near to where the attack took place read: Sorry we live in this crazy world this makes no sense. Fly high up there my mummy will look after you. RIP beautiful, forever young, taken too soon. Thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends, God bless. A forensic investigator puts flowers into a container at the scene near the Whitgift shopping centre (PA Wire) Another said: Rest in peace little princess. So sad your life is taken away at your prime you have touched my soul. Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley visited the scene and said: The senseless murder of a 15-year-old girl on her way to school is impossible to comprehend. It was moving and humbling to meet many members of the exceptional Croydon community who have come together in support of a family now dealing with the most unimaginable grief. The girl was a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift School, a private girls school in Croydon. The school said in a statement: We are deeply shocked by the senseless and tragic death of our much-loved and valued friend and pupil. It will take some time for the Old Palace community to come to terms with this terrible news, and we will offer support to our pupils as we try to do so. Above all, we send our love and deepest sympathies to the girls family at this unimaginably distressing time. Police and forensic investigators at the scene (PA Wire) Security worker Victor Asare said that blood ran like water and members of the public rushed to help after the girl was attacked. He said: The blood was coming like water. A lot of people came, everyone came off the bus. Everybody was crying and screaming. The girl was on the floor. A lot of people tried to save the girl. I was so shocked, I was shaken. Its somebodys daughter. I finished work but couldnt sleep, so came back, I wanted to see if the girl was OK. Mr Asare said the girl, who was wearing a green school blazer, was stabbed in the neck with a knife that was black, thin and about a foot long. Emergency servces attended the scene at around 8.30am but the girl was pronounced dead at the scene 50 minutes later. Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain described it as every parents worst nightmare (Lucy North/PA Wire) A bus driver and a passer-by were seen desperately trying to save the girl before emergency services arrived, with police at the scene within two minutes. A mother of two, who wanted to be named only as Bridget, said: I was on the bus before and came off and walked back down, I saw them resuscitating her. The driver was holding her, and a lady. The emergency services were already here when I walked back. She said two other schoolgirls, believed to be the victims friends, were trying to get through the police cordon but were held back. James Watkins, from Mainz World which runs prevention and intervention projects for children and young people, was with the girls family at the scene between 9am and 10am. He said: They were devastated and I would say more importantly in shock, I dont think it feels real for them. Forensics at the scene around the Route 60 bus (Lucy North/PA Wire) A red double decker bus on route 60, three police vehicles and about a dozen officers, as well as a forensics tent, could be seen in the taped off area outside the Whitgift Centre. Met Police Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain told reporters at the scene: This is every parents worst nightmare, and I know the officers who responded this morning, along with our emergency service colleagues, are devastated at the victims death. This is an emotion I share and I know people across Croydon will be feeling the same. The victims family has been informed and our thoughts are with them at what must be an incredibly difficult time. Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said he was absolutely heartbroken at the news of the girls death. Witnesses or anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting reference CAD 1601/27Sep, and to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online. 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 PhD student has been found guilty of designing and building a kamikaze drone capable of delivering a bomb or chemical weapon for so-called Islamic State (IS) terrorists. Jurors at Birmingham Crown Court deliberated for around six hours over two days before unanimously convicting Mohamad Al Bared, who used a 3D printer to make the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) at his Coventry home. The mechanical engineering graduate, of Kare Road, was found guilty of a single count of engaging in conduct in preparation of terrorist acts to benefit a proscribed terrorist organisation. Al Bared was remanded in custody and told he may face a life term when he is sentenced on November 27. The 27-year-old denied being a supporter of IS or its aims, having told jurors he had no plans to assist it in any way and that he made a drone for his own research purposes. Al Bared, who was studying at Birmingham University and specialised in laser-drilling, also claimed to have researched IS to argue against its aims with others at a mosque. But prosecutors said it was clear from encrypted online chats and other digital material that he supported IS, intended to make a single-use video-transmitting fixed-wing drone for terrorist purposes, and to travel to Africa via Turkey. Adjourning sentence after Al Bared was convicted of preparing for terrorism between January 1, 2022 and January 31 this year, Judge Paul Farrer KC said: The court is going to have to consider whether the appropriate sentence is one of life imprisonment. You have been convicted of an offence of the utmost gravity. A long prison sentence is the inevitable consequence of that but the length and nature of that sentence is a matter for careful consideration, and the court will take that decision having received input from the Probation Service. The UAV was found in a bedroom when Al Bared was arrested in January this year. Opening the Crowns case in August, at the start of a five-week trial, prosecutor Michelle Heeley KC told the court: Police found a drone. They also found material suggesting this defendant supported Islamic State, a terrorist organisation. The court heard Al Bared, who lived with his parents, was arrested while driving at the same time as the raid took place, and had a mobile phone which police also seized. After showing the drone, which was contained in a large see-through plastic bag, to the jury, the prosecutor said it was of a type which has landing gear and a small digital camera. It had all the components required for it to fly, Ms Heeley added. We suggest it was being manufactured to deliver a bomb to fly into IS enemy territory and deliver a chemical weapon or some other kind of device. During the opening day of the trial, Ms Heeley also told how Al Bared had filled in an IS application form and set up a UK-registered company to help plans for future foreign travel. Written material saying the idea for the drone was somewhat inspired by the design of the Tomahawk missile was also put before the jury, in what the Crown said was Al Bared describing his build process. Ms Heeley said of the evidence found on an electronic device, which also included references to fuses, mechanical detonators and an explosive head: He is literally reporting back to someone about what it is that he is doing. What drone for legitimate use needs an explosive head? What does need an explosive head is a drone that has been designed on a missile. Al Bareds barrister, Alistair Webster KC, also made an opening speech, claiming his client had studied IS-linked material, including video of beheadings, because he wanted to debate against the terror groups views. Mr Webster said: He accepts that he is fascinated by Islamic State and its mindset, but rather than supporting it he wanted to argue against it, in the mosque, online. But Al Bared was described by anti-terror officers as someone with an extremist mindset who intended to cause mass casualties. It is our clear view that this man was very, very dangerous, that he was building something that was a weapon to use to deliver chemicals to cause harm to people who didn't share his extremist views Detective Chief Superintendent Mark Payne Commenting on the investigation, Detective Chief Superintendent Mark Payne, the commander of the West Midlands Counter-Terrorism Unit, said of Al Bared: He has built in his home address, using a 3D printer, a drone. He has then researched chemicals including sarin and ricin and mustard gas. It is our clear view that this man was very, very dangerous, that he was building something that was a weapon to be used to deliver chemicals to cause harm to people who didnt share his extremist views. This is clearly somebody who had a terrorist mindset. DCS Payne said the inquiry had established that Al Bared a very, very intelligent student was planning to travel abroad to Turkey, and probably onwards. We also found an application form for Islamic State on his devices, the officer said. And that alongside all the other evidence that we had gives us a really clear picture of somebody who was intent on working with a terrorist organisation to cause mass harm, and probably fatalities to innocent people. 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 13-year-old schoolboy has been stabbed in south London hours after a schoolgirl was killed in Croydon. Wandsworth Police confirmed the boy suffered non-life threatening or life-changing injuries as a result of the incident. The victim was attacked on Wednesday at approximately 3.30pm on Smallwood Road in Tooting, south London. Police say it is being investigated but no arrests have been made. Just hours before, another south London schoolgirl was stabbed to death in nearby Croydon. Have you been affected by this incident? If so email athena.stavrou@independent.co.uk GCSE student Elianne Andam was on her way to Old Palace of John Whitgift School in Croydon when she was attacked and killed on Wednesday morning. She was reportedly stabbed in the neck after stepping in to protect her friend. The Metropolitan police have said that their investigation is ongoing and a 17-year-old boy remains in custody. The earlier incident happened only six miles from Smallwood Road. Policing teams in Wandsworth are conducting target patrols focused on after-school hours in light of the recent stabbings. Police say they will carry out the patrols to deter anti-social behaviour and reassure the local community with a high visibility police presence on both Earlsfield and Wandsworth Commons area. Anyone who witnessed the attack or has information that can help officers is asked to call police via 101 quoting referenceCAD4894/27sep. To remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. MTN has outlined plans to accelerate economic development in Africa through increased utilisation of 5G technologies in mining and other key business and consumer areas. It came during the recent Uganda - South Africa Investment and Trade Summit held at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala, on 5-6 September, 2023. Hosted by the Ugandan government, the top-level event aims to strengthen bilateral investment and mobilise higher levels of private sector investments into priority sectors in Uganda. The summit focused on a number of sectors the two governments have identified as important for their future economic co-operation including ICT, agriculture, agro-processing, mining, tourism and manufacturing. Led by SA Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister, Nomalungelo Gina, a high-level trade delegation representing over 65 South African businesses attended the summit. Key among these was event sponsor MTN, with a number of senior-level executives present, including MTN Group Chairman Mcebisi Jonas, MTN Group President & CEO Ralph Mupita, Group Senior Vice President: Markets Ebenezer Asante, Group Vice President: Southern and East Africa Yolanda Cuba, Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer Nompilo Morafo, and MTN Uganda CEO, Sylvia Mulinge. MTNs technology partner Huawei was also present, holding a number of demonstrations showcasing its innovative practices in 5G to Business and 5G to Consumer. These spanned applications for a range of industries, including 5G for agriculture, 5G for healthcare, 5G for mining, as well as innovative business and consumer-oriented applications such as 360 Live Broadcast, and 5G AR Glasses. MTN is an established leader in Africa, providing voice, data, fintech, digital, enterprise, wholesale and API services to more than 292 million customers in 19 markets. To date, MTN has announced 5G networks in 6 countries: South Africa, Nigeria, Cote DIvoire, Ghana, Uganda and Sudan. According to the MyBroadband Insights Q2 2022 Mobile Network Quality Report, MTN South Africa is ranked number one for speed and network quality. In its largest market, Nigeria, MTN operates over 700 5G sites offering coverage in 13 cities (https://developingtelecoms.com/telecom-business/operator-news/15009-mtn-nigeria-expands-5g-network.html). MTNs target is to increase 5G coverage to 40% of Nigerias population by 2025. Investing in Africas Future MTN is one of the leading companies investing in Africas future with active investment projects across the continent. At the two-day MTN Capital Markets 2023 event, May 31 - June 1, MTN announced that it will increase the commercial use of 5G in mining, manufacturing, logistics and other industries, to expand the scope of commercial use and drive the digitalization process across Africa. The application of 5G in industry not only improves efficiency but also drives the development of Africa's digital economy. Huawei is a strategic partner with MTN and together, they have implemented a number of large-scale commercial applications for 5G. For example, MTN South Africa cooperated with Huawei and Minetec Smart Mining to build the first 5G-connected coal mine in South Africa (https://developingtelecoms.com/telecom-business/vendor-news/15205-how-did-5g-improve-a-mine-in-south-africa.html). In addition, MTN Uganda has cooperated with Huawei and the HIMA Cement Company to launch Ugandas first 5G industrial use case. One of MTNs most recent major investments is in Ghana, where it already holds a market leadership position in 4G. In July 2023, MTN announced that it will exceed the original 1BLN USD investment target set in 2021 by 2026, as it transitions networks to 5G, supported by Huawei (https://developingtelecoms.com/telecom-business/operator-news/15023-mtn-ghana-on-track-to-invest-1bn-in-network-by-2026.html). MTN Ambition 2025 Strategy Launched in 2021, MTNs Ambition 2025 strategy sets out a strategic vision to harness the power of MTNs leading brand, footprint, connectivity infrastructure and technology platforms to deliver leading digital solutions for Africas progress. Supported and funded through enhanced cost and capex efficiencies, the strategy is anchored in building the largest and most valuable platform business with a clear focus on Africa. MTN is accelerating implementation through partnerships. Together with Huawei, MTN has identified a number of 5G private network use cases that it will develop by 2025: Mining - The 5G Oriented Mine Collision avoidance Vehicle monitoring Manufacturing Real-Time Automation Remote control robots Predictive maintenance AI-driven quality inspection Logistics - Health - Education Smart campus AR/VR Drones for scanning ESG Strategy The commitment to 5G development echoes MTN's ESG strategy, also a key component of Ambition 2025, which continues to create additional economic value for Africa. MTN and Huawei signed an ESG MOU during MWC 2023, committing the signatories to delivering on a range of targets covering eco-responsibility, sustainable societies and sound governance. Both companies are determined to create value for Africa through carbon emission reduction, rural network coverage, and talent training, further accelerating the achievement of MTN's ESG strategy. According to the sustainability report released by MTN, the group has created 149BN Rand of economic value through its own network investment, job creation, technology empowerment, and enterprise transformation. These reflect MTNs Ambition 2025 strategy, to deliver leading digital solutions for Africa's progress, harnessing the power of MTN, and its leading brand, footprint, connectivity infrastructure, and technology platforms. 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 16-year-old boy has been arrested after a world-famous, iconic tree was chopped down overnight in what police say was an act of deliberate vandalism. The majestic Sycamore Gap tree, next to Hadrians Wall in Northumberland, thought to be around 300 years old, was one of the most photographed trees in the UK. It was made famous by actor Kevin Costner when it appeared in his 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves, and was voted English Tree of the Year in 2016 in the Woodland Trusts awards. The boy arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage in connection with felling the tree has now been released on bail pending further enquiries, Northumbria Police said on Friday. Police stand beside the cordoned-off area, where the Sycamore Gap tree on Hadrians Wall now lies on the ground (Getty Images) Sycamore Gaps destruction prompted an outpouring of anger and sorrow, from MPs, campaigners and the public alike. Have you been affected by this story? Do you have any favourite pictures of the tree? Email tara.cobham@independent.co.uk In a post retweeted by naturalist Chris Packham, the Woodland Trust wrote of their devastation at the truly irreplaceable loss. They said: We are devastated by the news that the Sycamore Gap tree in Northumberland also known as the Robin Hood tree has been felled. This is a truly irreplaceable loss. Dan Jarvis, Shadow Security Minister and Labour MP for Barnsley Central, described the trees felling as a senseless act of vandalism, writing: Somebody, and I very much hope we will find out who... has cut down one of the most famous trees in the North, the tree at Sycamore Gap by Hadrian's Wall. A senseless act of vandalism. The Sycamore Gap tree, next to Hadrians Wall in Northumberland, thought to be around 300 years old, was one of the most photographed trees in the UK (AFP/Getty) Mark Jenkinson MP Conservative MP for Workington spoke of his sadness and disgust, writing: Sycamore Gap is an iconic Northern landmark along Hadrians Wall, and one of the most famous trees in the UK which dated back to medieval times. I am both sad and disgusted by this. Mary Kelly Foy MP for City of Durham told of her heartbreak at this act of mindless vandalism that will be felt globally. She wrote: This is a heartbreaking act of mindless vandalism of a much-loved, famous landmark in the North East. A very sad day for the iconic Sycamore Gap, which will upset so many people around the country - and even across the world. As police officers searched the area, Tony Gates, chief executive of the Northumberland National Park Authority, said staff and volunteers had been greatly saddened after the loss of an iconic landmark in the park and that many had special memories of the tree. He said they would work with the public and supporters to ensure that once again the area would come to hold special memories. 'Sycamore Gap' tree on Hadrian's Wall now lies on the ground, leaving behind only a stump in the spot it once proudly stood (Getty Images) Friends of the Earth and the RSPB England both described the destruction as heartbreaking. The National Trust said it was shocked and desperately saddened, adding: We know just how much this iconic tree is loved locally, nationally and by everyone who has visited. We are working with our partners to understand what has happened and what can be done. Naturalist Dr Amy-Jane Beer wrote on social media: This poor stump is a devastating metaphor for the State of Nature in UK. Heartbreaking. Disconnection is a disease. God help whoever did this. Environmentalist Ben Goldsmith wrote: That someone would have destroyed this iconic tree is beyond comprehension; but whats even more shocking is that this was pretty much the only tree in that *entire* landscape. The stars above Sycamore Gap, prior to the Perseid Meteor Shower above Hadrian's Wall near Bardon Mill, England, in August 2015 (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) The closest pub to Sycamore Gap offered a 1,500 bar tab to anyone who provided information to Northumbria Police leading to an arrest, according to the Chronicle Live. Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness, said she was incandescent at what looks like a deliberate act of vandalism. She said on Thursday: "Im devastated that the famous Sycamore is gone. That tree was ours. It was an iconic North East landmark standing tall in our beautiful Northumberland. I am incandescent that this looks like a deliberate act of vandalism. Ill be raising this personally today. One of the UKs most photographed trees, the Sycamore Gap tree stands along Hadrian's Wall near Hexham, northern England (AFP/Getty) I know Northumbria Police are at the scene and officers will do their utmost to catch whoever is behind this. Terrible news." A spokesperson for the Northumberland National Park Authority added: Sycamore Gap was and is much-loved by people from across the world. Northumberland County Council Leader Glen Sanderson said: Today is a very sad day for our county. I am finding it difficult to express the shock, anger and hurt I feel at the destruction of this iconic landmark. People look at the tree at Sycamore Gap, next to Hadrian's Wall, in Northumberland after it came down overnight (PA) Independent North of Tyne Mayor told of his indescribable anger at the vandalism of our collective soul. Alongside a photo of himself standing at the police cordon, he wrote on social media: I cant express how angry I am at the vandalism of the tree at Sycamore Gap. People have had their ashes scattered there. People have proposed there. Ive picnicked there with my wife and kids. Its part of our collective soul. We must bring whoever did this to justice. Sycamore Gap is looked after by both Northumberland National Park and the National Trust, and the tree stood in a dramatic dip in Hadrians Wall. The destruction of Sycamore Gap has prompted an outpouring of anger and sorrow (PA) Superintendent Kevin Waring, of Northumbria Police, said on Thursday: This is a world-renowned landmark and the events of today have caused significant shock, sadness and anger throughout the local community and beyond. An investigation was immediately launched following this vandalism, and this afternoon we have arrested one suspect in connection with our enquiries. Given our investigation remains at a very early stage, we are keeping an open mind. I am appealing to the public for information to assist us if you have seen or heard anything suspicious that may be of interest to us, please let us know. 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 }} Detectives investigating the killing of Elianne Andam, who was stabbed to death in south London, have been granted more time to question a suspect. Elianne, 15, was attacked after getting off a bus to help a friend while on her way to school in Croydon. A boy, also 15 and known to Elianne, was arrested an hour later and investigators have been given until Friday morning to charge or release him. The beautiful young GCSE student, who dreamed of being a lawyer, is the 15th teenager to have died in a homicide in London this year. View more Thirteen of those killed were stabbed and two others were shot, with all but two of the killings carried out north of the River Thames across west, north and east London. Elianne Andam, 15, who was fatally stabbed on Wednesday morning in Croydon, south London (Metropolitan Police/PA) (PA Wire) According to Office for National Statistics, the number of people killed with a knife in England and Wales in 2021/22 was the highest on record for 76 years. At the time the report was published in February, the ONS said the increase was driven by an 18 per cent rise in the number of male victims, from 184 to 218, in the 12 months to March 2022. The largest volume increase was for teenage boys aged 16 to 17. Patrick Green, chief executive of anti-knife crime charity the Ben Kinsella Trust, set up in 2008 following the fatal stabbing of 16-year-old Ben in north London , suggested the effects of the Covid pandemic may have caused the spike. As we emerged from Covid restrictions and those restrictions were lifted, we were seeing more evidence of young people made more vulnerable by Covid. Gangs are particularly good at picking up on vulnerabilities, are quick to pick them up and indeed lure young people and exploit them in criminal acts. We think there could be a link there. Full list of teenagers killed in the capital For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The family of a 15-year-old girl fatally stabbed on her way to school has paid tribute to the light of our lives. Elianne Andam was wounded in the neck after getting off a bus in Croydon, south London at around 8.30am on Wednesday, with members of the public rushing to try to save her. On Thursday, her family said in a statement through police: Our hearts are broken by the senseless death of our daughter. Elianne was the light of our lives. She was bright and funny, with many friends who all adored her. She was only 15, and had her whole life ahead of her, with hopes and dreams for the future. All those dreams have now been shattered. Our lives have fallen apart, along with that of our wider family. We ask the media to please respect our privacy as we try to grieve the short life of our beautiful child. Dozens of bunches of flowers have been left at the scene of the teenagers death amid widespread shock at the tragedy. Police officers who were among the first at the scene and battled to try to save Elianne appeared visibly moved as they laid flowers on Thursday. Among the floral tributes, cards and candles, one message read: Rest in peace little princess so sad your life is taken away at your prime. You have touched my soul. A 17-year-old boy, who knew the victim, was arrested just over an hour after the attack, which took place on busy Wellesley Road at around 8.30am. He remains in police custody after officers were given more time to question him. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said he is shocked and appalled by the killing as he called for longer sentences for people who commit the most heinous crimes. He told the BBC: Everyone will be looking at that and be shocked as I am, appalled by whats happened and quite frankly angry. It just illustrates the importance of clamping down on knife crime. The idea that a girl not much older than my own kids would have their life just cruelly ended in that way is shocking, its absolutely shocking. Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Woodsford, who is leading the investigation, said: My thoughts and the thoughts of my team are with the Eliannes family. This is a deeply upsetting time for them and we will do everything we can to support them. She added: Our investigation continues and we are making good progress. We have recovered CCTV from the area and have spoken to a number of witnesses. Forensic scientists have also examined the scene. From these enquiries we are now confident Elianne was attacked outside in Wellesley Road near to the bus stop rather than onboard the bus. We know many people were in the area at the time and would have witnessed the attack. This would have been distressing and traumatic and I would encourage anyone who needs support to contact us and we will help to arrange this. I know that Eliannes death has left many people feeling upset and I would like to thank the people of Croydon for the support they have shown us as we have carried out our enquiries in the town centre. I know this work has been disruptive, however it has been vital and your patience is appreciated. A post-mortem examination will take place on Thursday. A steady flow of well-wishers left flowers and cards near the scene on Wednesday evening, and the girls school Old Palace of John Whitgift School paid tribute to its valued friend and pupil. Anthony King, chairman of My Ends a project helping combat youth violence in Croydon described Elianne as an absolutely incredible young lady and told of how others said she was jovial, very comedic. He also said the arrested boy had been known to local community groups for the past couple of years. Witnesses told the PA news agency the girl and her alleged attacker were not in a relationship. One of the cards left near to where the attack took place read: Sorry we live in this crazy world this makes no sense. Fly high up there my mummy will look after you. RIP beautiful, forever young, taken too soon. Thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends, God bless. Witnesses or anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting reference CAD 1601/27Sep. To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online. 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 }} Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said he does not believe drug consumption rooms can work, after a pilot programme was approved in Glasgow. The city council backed the creation of the facility this week after years of legal wrangling was resolved by Lord Advocate Dorothy Bain KC earlier this month. Scotlands top law officer said it would not be in the public interest to prosecute people using such a service which allows those who inject drugs to do so under medical supervision, as well as offering care that could aid them in their recovery from addiction. Speaking to STV News in a pre-Conservative conference interview on Thursday, the Prime Minister backed comments made previously by Scottish Secretary Alister Jack that the UK Government would not seek to block the facility from opening. Misnaming the Lord Advocate, the Prime Minister said: No, thats exactly as I said, we respect the independence of the advocate general in Scotland whilst we disagree with the drug consumption rooms elsewhere because we think they condone illegal drug use, and thats not something that we think is right. Asked if he believes such a measure will help the problem of drug addiction, Mr Sunak said: We dont, and we think they condone illegal use and thats what they run the risk of doing. Scotlands drug and alcohol policy minister Elena Whitham said: We know that safer drug consumption facilities are not a silver bullet, but evidence from more than 100 facilities worldwide show that they work and I hope that the Prime Minister remains open to listening to that evidence from both experts and campaigners. While the service would still be limited to some extent, due to the Misuse of Drugs Act reserved to Westminster, we are confident it will save lives. Through our 250 million national mission, we are doing everything within our powers to tackle drug deaths in Scotland. However, the number of deaths is still too high and we must use every means at our disposal as we face future challenges, including the increasing threat from synthetic opioids. 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 }} Patience has run out with the DUPs blockade of the Stormont Assembly, Sinn Fein vice president Michelle ONeill has said. Ms ONeill said she now wanted to see a plan from the UK and Irish governments on how to restore the powersharing institutions in Northern Ireland. The DUP has been blocking powersharing for more than a year in protest at the internal UK trade barriers created by Brexits Northern Ireland Protocol. The party says the deal struck by the EU and UK to reform the protocol the Windsor Framework does not sufficiently address its concerns and has made clear it will not countenance a return to devolution until the Government provides further assurances, by way of legislation, over Northern Irelands place within the UK internal market. Talks between the DUP and Government have been ongoing over the summer. Everyone has been more than reasonable giving time and space to the DUP, but that patience has run out Michelle O'Neill However, Ms ONeill told the media in Belfast that the two governments needed to be proactive in finding a solution. She said: What we need to see, and what we should have heard from the Prime Minister today, is the action, the plan that he has to work with the Irish Government to end the DUPs blockage of the assembly. That is where the public want us to be, working together and having their back through the cost-of-living crisis. Everyone has been more than reasonable giving time and space to the DUP, but that patience has run out. We are at the end of that road and what we need to see is the action plan to get us back into the executive. The real question now for the DUP is are they prepared to accept the outcome of last Mays assembly election? Are they prepared to accept shared power on an equal basis with ourselves and with the other parties? Some elements of the Windsor Framework will come into effect from this weekend. Ms ONeill said this meant there was no reason for the DUP boycott of Stormont to continue. She said: The Windsor Framework is now done, that deal has closed, that is not up for renegotiation. We have the Windsor Framework now coming into effect, the red lanes and green lanes now coming into effect over the next number of days, so there is no reason for the DUP to boycott the executive. I do think the two governments need to bring forward a plan in the first instance to have a restored executive Michelle O'Neill She added: Our priority should always be plan A which is to get the Executive up and running, but if that is not the case of course it is prudent for the two governments to work together and actually find a way. But, what does that look like? What does that joint stewardship look like? They need to be having those conversations. I do think the two governments need to bring forward a plan in the first instance to have a restored executive and how they are going to stop the DUP preventing the formation of an executive. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The media regulator has launched an official investigation into an episode of GB News show Dan Wootton Tonight following the presenter having his contract terminated by MailOnline where he wrote a column. Ofcom received around 7,300 complaints about the Tuesday programme of Woottons show which saw guest Laurence Fox make a series of personal remarks about a female journalist. It is investigating under Rule 2.3 of the Broadcasting Code which states when applying generally accepted standards broadcasters must ensure that material which may cause offence is justified by the context. Fox and Wootton who was heard laughing during the segment had been suspended by GB News on Wednesday. Ofcom chief executive Dame Melanie Dawes said: Over the last few days there has been speculation and commentary about our role as the independent broadcast regulator. These are important issues and I wanted to be clear about our rules. Parliament sets objectives on how the broadcast sector should be regulated. We set and enforce rules to achieve these objectives. Contrary to some claims, these rules remain unchanged. Dame Melanie said the rules from the regulator of broadcasters are meant to protect audiences from offensive and harmful material, and to uphold the integrity of broadcast news and current affairs programming while ensuring freedom of expression. She also said: The decisions we take, always based on facts and evidence once a programme has aired, are vital if we are to protect our vibrant media landscape. We continue to apply and enforce these rules without fear or favour. A host of politicians have since come forward to express their opinion after the situation unfolded on Wednesday. Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown had told Sky News show Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge that Ofcom needs to have more teeth to deal with issues of standards and Wootton and Fox have got to be kept off of the air. Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan had said the media regulator had to take the response to the next stage following the unacceptable and disgraceful on-air behaviour. On Tuesday, actor-turned-politician Fox made a series of remarks about Ava Evans, the political correspondent for online news site Joe, including asking: Who would want to shag that? Following the discussion, Wootton apologised unreservedly for a very unfortunate lapse in judgment in a follow-up post to an earlier apology, which suggested he should have said sorry for what was said during the broadcast. The broadcast prompted an internal investigation by GB News, while Ms Evans said she had received an apology from the broadcaster. On Thursday, Ms Evans told Good Morning Britain that her direct messages on social media are full of astounding threats. She added: Im deeply embarrassed by all of it and Im appreciative for everyone who has very kindly stood up for me, but its sort of the other side of it, which is half of the comments are very lovely and supportive, and the other side are very threatening. Woottons column was originally paused in August while the MailOnline investigated allegations that he used a pseudonym and offered colleagues money for sexual material. On Thursday, a spokesperson from the publications parent company, DMG Media, said: Following events this week, DMG Media can confirm that Dan Woottons freelance column with MailOnline, which had already been paused, has now been terminated, along with his contract. The 40-year-old previously said he had made errors of judgment in the past but branded the criminal allegations as simply untrue. His previous employers at The Sun newspaper, where Wootton had worked as an executive editor until he announced in January 2021 that he would leave, said in July they were looking into allegations made against the New Zealand-born star. Lewis star Fox, whose previous acting credits include Gosford Park and Elizabeth: The Golden Age, posted a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter: Just so we are clear. I would rather scrub toilets for the rest of my days and retain my dignity. Than shill for cash and opportunity, only to compromise absolutely everything which really matters in life. Ive made many millions over the years and I gave them up to fight a battle I didnt want to fight. So if you think that some half baked pile on is going to stop me. Think again. I am truly free. The leader of the Reclaim Party also claimed in a series of tweets that he had done a pre interview with the channel so they knew exactly what I intended to say. 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 }} Grant Shapps has visited Kyiv and met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The Defence Secretary used the visit to reaffirm the UKs commitment to support Ukraine as it defends itself against the Russian invasion of its territory. In his second visit to Kyiv in two months, Mr Shapps held meetings with his Ukrainian counterpart Rustem Umerov, alongside the UKs chief of defence staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin. In a video shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, Mr Shapps can be seen meeting the Ukrainian president alongside defence officials. Mr Shapps said: It was an honour to meet President Zelensky in Kyiv to assure him that the UK will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine, as we have since Putin illegally invaded Crimea nearly 10 years ago. We have trained tens of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers, delivered hundreds of thousands of rounds of ammunition, and provided millions of pounds of economic and humanitarian aid to help Ukraines citizens reclaim and rebuild what has been taken from them by Putins barbaric invasion. Having heard the experiences of so many Ukrainians affected by this war, including a family I hosted in my home for a year, I am committed to maintaining the UKs military support particularly as the freezing winter weather approaches. Mr Shapps previously visited Ukraine in August in his former role as energy secretary. On that occasion, he discussed support for Ukraines recovery from the war, and visited a childrens nursery previously attended by one of the Ukrainian children he hosted in his home. Like Mr Shapps, Ukrainian defence minister Mr Umerov is a recent appointee to his role. Former defence minister Oleksii Reznikov was sacked amid an anti-corruption drive by Mr Zelensky, after concerns about procurement processes with Ukrainian defence. The two defence ministers first met in Ramstein, Germany, during a meeting of 50 nations at last weeks Ukraine Defence Contact Group. Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony, said new commitments of military aid first discussed in Ramstein would help build Ukraines strength and resilience through the winter and beyond. He added: The recent strikes on the Black Sea Fleet are another example of how Ukraine retains the initiative. Putin has lost control of the war he started, and Russia is diminished as a consequence. I am profoundly grateful to the UK for all the financial, humanitarian, and military support, including crucial long-range capabilities President Volodymyr Zelensky On X, Mr Zelensky said: I received UK Defence Secretary (Grant Shapps) in Kyiv. I am profoundly grateful to the UK for all the financial, humanitarian, and military support, including crucial long-range capabilities. We discussed further defence co-operation and steps to strengthen Ukraines air defence. Ukraines offensive to push Russian forces out of occupied areas of its territory continues. Last week, Ukrainian armed forces launched a missile strike against Russias Black Sea fleet headquarters in Sevastopol. Russia has accused Western nations allied with Ukraine of helping to plan and conduct the attack, which appeared to kill the fleets top admiral. However, Viktor Sokolov has apparently since appeared in a video conference call with other Kremlin chiefs. Telecom Egypt finalised a deal to host AFR-IX Telecom's Medusa subsea cable which will connect to the Red Sea through the operator's network by the end of 2025. In a statement, the operator said Medusa will connect from the city of Port Said and then tap into landing stations in Suez, Zafarana, and Ras Ghareb through Telecom Egypts extensive terrestrial crossing network. The new connection will also enable Telecom Egpyt direct access to all Medusa Mediterranean landings in Europe and North Africa to the Red Sea. Telecom Egypt and AFR-IX Telecom signed an initial agreement to land Medusa in Port Saids landing station in March 2022. The deal will connect ten African and European countries - Portugal, Morocco, Spain, France, Algeria, Tunisia, Italy, Greece, Cyprus and Egypt. The cable will become operational in the Western Mediterranean in 2025. Telecom Egypt managing director and CEO Mohamed Nasr said: This new agreement provides additional connectivity solutions and increases diversity in the submarine cable infrastructure reaching the Red Sea, marking a significant milestone in the industry. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A 4-year-old boys toes were ripped from his foot after his Wellington boot got stuck going up a London escalator. The child became trapped in front of his horrified parents as they ascended at London Bridge station after enjoying a family day out eating pizza and watching a New Years Day parade. Standing with his mother, his boot became stuck between the step and side of the escalator. In a blind panic, his parents struggled to find an emergency stop button on a nearby pillar as his father yanked his sons foot out of the trapped boot. Tragically the boys little toe and part of his fourth toe were severed as he was pulled free. Have you been affected by this incident? If so email barney.davis@independent.co.uk A London Bridge station escalator technician freed the severed toes and put them on ice but they could not be reattached at nearby St Thomas Hospital. The family, from Sittingbourne, Kent, have launched legal action against Network Rail over the January 1 accident on platform 7. A lovely family day out ended in absolute disaster for us, said the unnamed boys father. I am confident our little boy wasnt doing anything he shouldnt have been on the escalator, we were right next to him, and it was such a frightening experience to see him suddenly trapped like that. Our little boy has been really suffering and is now completely terrified of going near any escalators or lifts. We felt it was important to speak out about what happened to us, so parents know to be extremely vigilant when travelling around London. Bolt Burdon Kemp, the law firm representing the family, is pursuing a negligence claim, alleging the escalator was either faulty, unsafe due to a design flaw, or in a state of disrepair. Senior associate Ben Pepper said Network Rail has denied liability as he called for witnesses to the accident to come forward. This familys harrowing ordeal really shines a spotlight on the dangers of escalators and particularly the dangers of travelling with children, he said. Its really disappointing to see Network Rail deny liability for this issue and we hope, through our ongoing legal investigation we can identify those features of the escalator that were unsafe, and ensure this tragedy doesnt happen to anyone else. Bolt Burdon Kemp is appealing for witnesses to come forward, emailing benpepper@bbkllp.co.uk or calling 020 7288 4815. A Network Rail spokesperson said: The safety and wellbeing of our passengers is always our number one priority and our thoughts are with the young boy and his family at this very difficult time. Everyone in Network Rail and particularly the team at London Bridge station are saddened by this incident, however, while the case is ongoing, it would be inappropriate for us to comment any further at this stage. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Police officers in England and Wales have been reportedly switching off their body cameras while using force, and deleting and sharing footage on WhatsApp. The Home Office said the police use of cameras must be lawful and justified after a BBC investigation found more than 150 reports of misuse of body-worn cameras. The body cameras were introduced to the police force more than a decade ago to protect officers in the UK against malicious complaints and improve the quality of evidence. But there have been several serious allegations, including reports in seven police forces where officers shared camera footage with friends or colleagues, either in person or online. Other allegations include the sharing of images of a naked person between officers on email and cameras being used to record conversations, according to the report. The police have been accused of deleting footage or not marking it as evidence and switching off cameras during incidents. Footage filmed by Bedfordshire Police of a woman alleging rape by an inspector was "deleted", while the force blamed it on an "administrative error". Siblings Louisa, 25, and Yufial, 23 were charged and prosecuted for allegedly assaulting and abusing officers at a Black Lives Matter protest in London in 2020. However, the duo maintained their innocence while facing a two-year legal battle to obtain bodycam video that they argued would show the use of force by police against them. The footage seen by the broadcaster reportedly shows Louisa being pushed by a female officer while a separate video shows Yufial being struck by a male officer. Jim Colwell, the National Police Chief Council's lead for body-worn video, said the incidents "go to the heart of what undermines confidence in policing". "Police use of technology, including body-worn video cameras, must be lawful, proportionate and justified," a spokesperson for the Home Office told BBC. But they declined to say whether the administration planned on changing how cameras were used or amend the law. Baroness Louise Casey, who conducted a year-long review into the Metropolitan Police, said police forces have the wrong attitude towards the cameras. "There are too many dark things that go on that we are not seeing," she told the BBC. "The sooner (officers) get their heads around the fact that it's a tool that would help them build trust they'd be on to something instead of hiding it." Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The prime minister is set to launch a plan for motorists that includes curbing local 20mph speed limits, risking a fresh clash with eco-campaigners. Just days ago, Rishi Sunak prompted howls of protest from climate experts when he watered down the governments environmental commitments. At the Conservative Party conference on Monday, he is reportedly preparing to announce a string of measures that also include prioritising car drivers over bus passengers. Concern has risen among Tories that policies aimed at curbing the use of cars could cost them votes at next years general election. It follows the Uxbridge and Ruislip by-election in July, when concerns over the expansion of Londons ultra-low emissions zone (Ulez) led to a narrow victory for the Conservatives. Mr Sunak pledged then to crack down on anti-motorist policies to try to win votes. His new plans, which have not been discussed with councils, are expected to include steps to restrict the powers of local authorities in England to introduce 20mph speed limits on main roads. The number of hours a day that cars are banned from bus lanes would also be limited, The Guardian reported. There could also be curbs on councils scope for imposing fines and raising revenue from number-plate-recognition cameras capturing drivers breaching rules of the road, and on the use of such cameras at box junctions. The plan for motorists is likely to cause friction with local authorities, as well as with carbon campaigners. Mr Sunak sparked rebellion in his party when he announced that the 2030 ban on the sale of petrol and diesel cars and gas boilers would be pushed back to 2035. Low-traffic neighbourhoods are under review (Getty Images) He attacked climate zealots, saying it was wrong to impose such significant costs on working people. But in the days after his announcement, his popularity sank to a record low of -45, according to a YouGov poll. On Sunday, Wales became the first country in the UK to drop the default speed limit from 30mph to 20mph for restricted roads, something English councils are thought to be considering. A Department for Transport source described the policies as speculation. In interviews with local BBC and ITV outlets, the prime minister refused repeatedly to promise to complete the Birmingham-to-Manchester phase of the HS2 rail link. Transport charity Sustrans told The Guardian the plans would mean the prime minster was yet again failing those people who did not drive or own a car. A spokesperson said: Why is the prime minister going out of his way to clog our roads with cars what kind of legacy is this supposed to leave? What about the 45 per cent of people on low incomes who dont own a car? Prioritising cars in this way serves no one not pedestrians, not cyclists, not users of public transport. It doesnt even benefit drivers, who will face more congestion. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Rishi Sunak has repeatedly declined to endorse Home Secretary Suella Bravermans claim that multiculturalism has failed in her hardline speech on immigration. The Prime Minister instead praised the UKs fantastic multicultural democracy on Thursday, saying the nation has done an incredible job of integrating people. Ms Braverman has sought to downplay suggestions that her speech in the US was paving the way for a future bid to surpass her boss as the Tory leader. The Cabinet minister warned of what she sees as an existential threat of uncontrolled migration as she called for reform of international refugee rules. She argued the misguided dogma of multiculturalism had failed because it allowed people to come to our society and live parallel lives in it. Ms Braverman suggested it has allowed them to pursue lives aimed at undermining the stability and threatening the security of our society. But Mr Sunak, the first British PM of Indian heritage, repeatedly declined to back her comments during a round of regional broadcast interviews ahead of the Tory conference. Asked by BBC East Midlands political editor Tony Roe if he agreed with Ms Braverman, Mr Sunak said: I think that this is something that is incredible about this country, is that it is a fantastic multicultural democracy. We have done an incredible job of integrating people into society and one of the lovely things about getting the job I have, as the first person from my background to hold this job, thats a wonderful thing, but its also not a big deal in our country. I think that speaks to the progress weve made over the years and how far weve come and something we should all be collectively incredibly proud of. Asked if the Home Secretary was wrong, Mr Sunak said it is important that everyone subscribes to British values but that he believes our country has done an incredibly good job of integrating people from lots of different backgrounds. Westminster observers suggested that Ms Bravermans speech in Washington seemed like a pitch to the Tory right, in case Mr Sunak leads the party to defeat at the next general election. But Ms Braverman, whose parents migrated from Mauritius and Kenya, told the PA news agency that such suggestions were slightly flippant and insisted she was working hand-in-hand with Mr Sunak. Her remarks were criticised by some Conservative MPs, including Tobias Ellwood. He told ITVs Peston they were clearly designed for a particular audience and dont do the Prime Minister any good. A Labour spokesman said: Weak Rishi Sunak has allowed his Home Secretary to swan off around the world delivering messages to some of our closest allies that hes not onboard with. Its official, his premiership is beyond tired, its redundant. This is not just embarrassing. Its bad for Britain and they should call an election now. 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 }} Journalist Ava Evans, who is at the centre of comments made by Laurence Fox on GB News, has said her direct messages on social media are full of astounding threats. Actor-turned-politician Fox made a series of remarks about political correspondent Ms Evans, which included asking who would want to shag that? during a discussion on Dan Wootton Tonight on Tuesday. Both Fox and Wootton were suspended by GB News amid an internal investigation and a probe by regulator Ofcom, while Ms Evans said she had received an apology from the broadcaster. Wootton has since apologised unreservedly for a very unfortunate lapse in judgment in a follow-up post to an earlier apology, which suggested he should have apologised for what was said during the broadcast. Speaking about the impact of the comments on Good Morning Britain, Ms Evans said: Im deeply embarrassed by all of it and Im appreciative for everyone who has very kindly stood up for me, but its sort of the other side of it, which is half of the comments are very lovely and supportive, and the other side are very threatening. (They say) Im somehow part of this global agenda that is trying to bring down men and I hate all men and therefore I need to watch my back and be very careful because there are certain people who now are threatening to come after me. It feels ridiculous even saying it (but) my direct messages on social media are full of people threatening me. When asked if she had reported the messages to the police, she said: I havent yet, it has only been a day and Im still sort of trying to get my head around it, but reading them is honestly astounding. Most of the time I cover trade unions and picket lines, and now I feel like Ive been thrown into something that is just so ridiculous and hyperbolic that is nothing to do with me really. Ms Evans said the apology from GB News suggested the incident didnt reflect the rest of the views on the channel. She continued: Im sure thats true to a degreebut theres certainly a narrative that is pervasive after 10pm on that channel, that I just dont think its safe for women to watch, consume or be around. The journalist also spoke about GB News employing Tory MPs including Conservative Party deputy chairman Lee Anderson, as well as former Cabinet minister Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg and Esther McVey. I think whats important is a lot of presenters and producers at the channel spoke publicly yesterday about how they dont align themselves with those views, she said. But I didnt hear that from any elected members of parliament that sit on that channel. So if youre not going to say anything, and youre going to continue broadcasting on it, its almost as if youve accepted it, or youre claiming to align with those views. Youre saying that its perfectly reasonable for someone to profess what Laurence Fox did that night. A host of politicians have since come forward to express their opinion after the situation unfolded on Wednesday. Former prime minister Gordon Brown said Wootton and Fox have got to be kept off of the air, while regulator Ofcom needs to have more teeth to deal with issues of standards, while appearing on Sky News Politics Hub with Sophy Ridge. Culture secretary Lucy Frazer at first declined to condemn Foxs remarks, but later described them as unacceptable. While Scotland First Minister Humza Yousaf branded Fox a vile neanderthal following comments he made about the female journalist. Fox, whose previous acting credits include Gosford Park and Elizabeth: The Golden Age, later posted a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter: Just so we are clear. I would rather scrub toilets for the rest of my days and retain my dignity. Than shill for cash and opportunity, only to compromise absolutely everything which really matters in life. Ive made many millions over the years and I gave them up to fight a battle I didnt want to fight. So if you think that some half baked pile on is going to stop me. Think again. I am truly free. 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 brave youngster diagnosed with leukaemia at just two weeks old has been made the face of a nationwide campaign that aims to raise awareness of childhood cancer. Five-year-old Amelia Topa battled the disease on and off throughout her young life before having a stem cell transplant using a newborn babys umbilical cord blood which gave her a new lease of life. Amelia, of Turriff, Aberdeenshire, is now the face of Cancer Research UK for Children and Young Peoples latest campaign Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Around 320 people aged 0-24 years are diagnosed with cancer in Scotland every year, according to Cancer Research. Amelias mother, Kerri Paton, 27, said: Anyone who meets Amelia would agree that shes a star. Being told your child has cancer is the worst sentence any parent could ever hear. I felt mad at first that someone so tiny should have to go through this horrible disease. But Amelia has been a little fighter from the day she was born. I have felt amazed by her strength and lucky to have good support from friends, family and hospital staff. She added: We will forever be grateful to a family in America well probably never get a chance to meet. The stem cells from America looked just like a small bag of blood but they had the power to make Amelia well again. It was a big day for our family when Amelia started school for the first time this August. Shes getting on really well and we couldnt be prouder. Ms Paton recalled the moment when she and Amelias father, Igor Topa, were told of their daughters illness. Shortly after Amelia was born on November 27 2017, staff at Dr Grays Hospital, Elgin, noticed raised purple spots on her body and warned it could be a sign something was wrong. Amelia would be diagnosed with two types of cancer acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and acute myeloid leukaemia, before being transferred to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow. Ms Paton said: It didnt hit me properly until I walked out of the room and then I started crying, a lot. Its rare enough to be born with leukaemia but to be born with a mix of two kinds is almost unheard of. The tot spent her first Christmas in hospital while chemotherapy was carried out. By spring 2018, the family were told a bone marrow transplant using stem cells would be her best chance of survival. An anonymous male donor from America, aged between 16 and 30, donated the stem cells and the transplant went ahead on June 28 2018. The transplant was deemed a success and by autumn, Amelia was able to return home. Ms Paton also gave birth to her second child, Oscar, on October 30 2018. However, a day before Amelias birthday in November 2018, Ms Patons mother, Angela McNabb, died suddenly aged 48. Ms Paton said her mother was everything to her, her major source of support and is saddened she did not get the chance to say goodbye. The family would face further devastating news on February 11 2019 after tests showed Amelias cancer had returned. Doctors made the decision to have her undergo a second round of stem cell treatments, this time from an umbilical cord. Amelia underwent the second transplant on June 28 2019, exactly a year after her initial transplant. Ms Paton said: They had to fly the umbilical cord blood over from America. Doctors explained to us that this was the best option to keep the leukaemia away. Amelia soared through the transplant and shes doing really well now. I hope Amelias story will help other families going through cancer. There is a light at the end of the tunnel. 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 }} Medieval Oxfords lethally violent student population made the city Englands murder capital, a new crime map has revealed. Researchers, including those from the University of Cambridge, mapped medieval Englands known murder cases, adding Oxford and York to its street plan of Londons 14th century slayings. Oxfords student population was by far the most lethally violent of all groups in any of the three cities, said the analysis, revealed in the digital resource Medieval Murder Maps. While Oxford in late medieval England was one of the most significant centres of learning in Europe, with a population of around 7,000 inhabitants and perhaps 1,500 students, researchers said the citys homicide rate was around 60-75 per 100,000. This was 50 times higher than in 21st century English cities. Crime scenes based on translated investigations from 700-year-old coroners inquests were plotted by the researchers. They estimated the per capita homicide rate in Oxford to be 4-5 times higher than late medieval London or York. About three-fourths of the Oxford perpetrators with a known background were clericus students or members of the early university as were nearly 75 per cent of the victims. Oxford students were all male and typically aged between fourteen and twenty-one, the peak for violence and risk-taking, said Manuel Eisner, an investigator who was part of the murder map project. These were young men freed from tight controls of family, parish or guild, and thrust into an environment full of weapons, with ample access to alehouses and sex workers, Mr Eisner said, adding that Oxford at the time had a deadly mix of conditions. Oxford medieval murder map (University of Cambridge) Many students, he said, also belonged to regional fraternities that were found to be an additional source of conflict. The new interactive map, launched by Cambridges Violence Research Centre, allows users to compare the causes and patterns of urban violence in medieval England across three cities. In the case of York, many of the documented homicides were between artisans in the same profession, from knife fights among tannery workers to fatal violence between glove makers. The data for the map was from coroners rolls, which are catalogues of sudden or suspicious deaths as deduced by a jury of local residents of good repute. When a suspected murder victim was discovered in late medieval England the coroner would be sought, and the local bailiff would assemble a jury to investigate, Dr Eisner explained. The jurys task was to establish the course of events by hearing witnesses, assessing evidence and then naming a suspect. We do not have any evidence to show juries wilfully lied, but many inquests will have been a best guess based on available information, Cambridge historian Stephanie Brown said. In many instances, it is likely the jury named the right suspect, in others it may be a case of two plus two equals five, Dr Brown said. Using the coroners rolls, which contain the names, events, locations and even the value of murder weapons, researchers constructed a street atlas of 354 homicides across all three cities. Researchers said a mix of young male students and booze may have often been a powder keg for violence. Victims or witnesses of the time had a legal responsibility to alert the community and it was mostly women who raised hue and cry, usually reporting conflicts between men to keep the peace, Dr Brown said. Scientists suspect the medieval sense of street justice and the ubiquity of weaponry in everyday life at the time may have caused even minor infractions to lead to murder. For instance, the map reports cases of altercations following careless urination and littering that ended in homicide. Circumstances that frequently led to violence will be familiar to us today, such as young men with group affiliations pursuing sex and alcohol during periods of leisure on the weekends. Weapons were never far away, and male honour had to be protected, Dr Eisner said. Aftershocks continue to be felt from Suella Bravermans incendiary speech on immigration. In one of her most controversial remarks, she spoke of an existential challenge for the political and cultural institutions of the West and declared that the misguided dogma of multiculturalism has allowed people to come to Britain with the aim of undermining the stability and threatening the security of society. Some may wonder where such thoughts are leading. Is Britain a multicultural society? Much of it is, but the pattern varies enormously. Some parts of Britain havent changed much in decades. Other towns and cities have famously transformed: London, Slough, Leicester, Bradford and Birmingham among others. In recent years immigration, from eastern Europe has been relatively high in agricultural eastern England, in places such as Boston in Lincolnshire. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The former chairman of HS2 has fired back at Rishi Sunaks government by blaming short-sighted Tory ministers for the high-speed rail projects spiralling costs. The Independent first revealed the PM was in secret Project Redwood talks with chancellor Jeremy Hunt to axe the projects northern leg from Birmingham to Manchester. Despite the backlash, Mr Sunak is thought to be keen to cut costs with sources close to the PM claiming that HS2 executives have acted like kids with the golden credit card. Ex-HS2 chairman Allan Cook who ran the project between 2018 and 2021 has now accused the government of trying to duck responsibility. The rail industry chief said government officials agreed every penny spent, and claimed it would be a scandalous waste of money if Mr Sunak and Mr Hunt were to end the line at Birmingham. Representatives from the Treasury and transport department sat on the HS2 board during my time as chairman, Mr Cook told the Mail. Asked about the idea executives acted kids with the golden credit card, he said: Nothing could be further from the truth. Mr Cook insisted: There was total transparency of every decision and every penny spent. HS2 had monthly meetings with ministers and officials from No 10, the Treasury and Department for Transport. Blaming Tory ministers for delays and lack of clarity, the ex-chairman added: Perhaps my biggest frustration is the constant short-sighted approach to large infrastructure programmes. Uncertainty is the enemy of big projects. It drives up costs and slows down progress. The most scandalous waste of money would be to end the line at Birmingham, incurring all of the costs and delivering very little real benefit. Rishi Sunak under pressure to commit to HS2 to Manchester (Hollie Adams/PA Wire) The war of words comes as Mr Sunak repeatedly ducked questions on the future of HS2 during in a series of excruciating interviews blaming Covid for the failing railways. The PM told BBC radio that the pandemic caused everyone to stop travelling on the rail network, which has made running train services very difficult. The PM said there were spades in the ground on phase one of the project, but refused to say whether he was committed to phase two, which The Independent revealed Mr Sunak and Mr Hunt are considering scrapping to save cash. Mr Sunak is understood to be considering an option to quell a Tory backlash by kicking the Birmingham to Manchester route into the long grass by delayed it by up to seven years. There have been indications he could announce a string of regional transport improvements in an effort to limit the political fallout including bringing forward Northern Powerhouse Rail between Manchester and Leeds. Senior red wall Tories in the influential Northern Research Group have signalled they are willing to accept a delay to the northern leg of HS2 so long as the PM commits to east-west rail projects known as Northern Powerhouse Rail. Labour mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham has suggested he could be open to a delay if the government commits to east-west routes and builds a section of HS2 between Manchester Airport and Manchester Piccadilly. 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 }} GB News is embroiled in a Tory bias row tonight after announcing Suella Braverman will be interviewed by her own partys deputy chair just a week after the right-wing news channel was sanctioned over impartiality . Lee Anderson, the divisive Ashfield MP will meet the home secretary for a cosy sit down after her return from the US, where she delivered a speech calling for a crackdown on gay and female asylum seekers . The interview comes as the channel faces a separate investigation after Dan Woottons show drew thousands of complaints when guest Laurence Fox said he would not want to shag a female journalist. Despite the ongoing probe, and the channels recent sanction for the number of Tory MPs interviewing ministers, Mr Anderson will press ahead with the pally discussion. He said on Twitter: Watch me tomorrow on GB News interview Suella Braverman in her first interview on British soil since her landmark speech this week in the US. GB News was found to have breached impartiality rules when chancellor Jeremy Hunt was interviewed by married Tory MPs Esther McVey and backbencher Philip Davies ahead of his spring budget in March. Ofcoms rules say: News, in whatever form, must be reported with due accuracy and presented with due impartiality. No politician may be used as a newsreader, interviewer or reporter in any news programmes unless, exceptionally, it is editorially justified. 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. 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. Gavin Barwell, former No 10 chief of staff under Theresa May, also questioned why Tory MPs were interviewing each other on TV. This increasing trend for politicians to be interviewed by their colleagues is sus, he tweeted. Tory MPs Lee Anderson and Jacob Rees-Mogg have their own shows (PA) Senior Tory MP Caroline Nokes earlier called for GB News to be taken off air as she attacked her Conservative colleagues for swanning off to host shows on the channel. The equalities select committee chair said it is very odd for colleagues such as Mr Anderson and Jacob Rees-Mogg to have presenting gigs while they have a day job to do. Ms Nokes was highly critical of the broadcaster after it aired blatantly misogynistic, outdated, hideous attitudes displayed by Mr Wootton and Mr Fox towards journalist Ava Evans. I think there is a really serious case to answer and I hope that Ofcom can conclude its investigations as swiftly as possible, she told Newsnight. I think it should be taken off air. Ofcoms latest probe into GB News is looking at whether offence caused by former actor Mr Foxs remarks - during which Mr Wootton laughed - about a female journalist were justified by the context. Both Mr Fox and Mr Wootton have been suspended by GB News, and Wootton has been sacked by MailOnline where he had written a regular column since 2021. The regulator received 7,300 complaints about the interview. Ofcom said it cannot investigate Mr Andersons show until it has aired, as it is a post-transmission regulator. Two stories involving enhanced coverage and connectivity have emerged from Brazil this week one involving satellite networks for enterprises, operators and aviation, and the other involving terrestrial internet access for schools. Satellite network operator Intelsat says it has launched new services in Brazil that combine local support, new teleport facilities, and broader satellite coverage to deliver connectivity services to more users across the region. They include new high-throughput satellite capacity. In this case, Intelsat 46e and Galaxy 28, positioned over Brazil and Latin America, will provide reliable connectivity supporting enterprise, mobile network operator, media and commercial aviation customers. In addition, a new teleport facility located outside Rio de Janeiro will expand Intelsats existing global network and enable direct connections between Intelsat satellites and Brazils local terrestrial networks to reduce the distance user internet traffic has to travel. Operations centre expansion is also planned. Meanwhile, according to local press reports, high-speed internet access in Brazils state schools is closer to becoming a reality. The resources of the Fund for the Universalization of Telecommunications Services (FUST), which are administered exclusively by the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES), will be used with the aim of establishing universal access in 138,000 schools by 2026. This was announced during the launch of the National Strategy of Connected Schools (ENEC), which took place at the Presidential Palace in Brasilia. ENEC is coordinated by a number of ministries, and supported by FUST, which will offer financial support through refundable and non-refundable credit. Projects can be submitted by telecommunications service providers, states and municipalities. The amount available for credit is R$ 1.2 billion (around 237.6 million). Another R$ 2.7 billion (US$ 534.6 million) is expected to become available by 2025. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Rishi Sunak mocked Liz Truss, Boris Johnson and Matt Hancock in a speech ahead of the upcoming Tory gathering in Manchester. As well as a series of gags about his own dress sense, and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, Mr Sunak also made light of after-hours karaoke sessions at the party conference. He said: I have heard on the grapevine that Nadine (Dorries) and Boris are doing Nothing Compares 2 U. Liz Truss is apparently covering Shaggys It Wasnt Me. I will be performing Elton Johns classic Tiny Dancer, he added. In a further swipe at Ms Truss, Mr Sunak said: It has been quite the year in British politics. Were almost a year to the day on from what we might euphemistically call the events that led to my becoming prime minister. He said he was glad to see her quietly reflecting not least on who is to blame. The prime minister also took aim at Mr Hancock, the former secretary of state for health who lost the Tory whip over his appearance on Im A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here! Mr Hancock, a regular user of TikTok who is set to stand down at the next general election, also appeared on Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins. Mr Sunak said: Arguably looking back over this tumultuous year, no-one has had a busier year than Matt Hancock. Its hard to keep up Im a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here, Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins. And thats just one reason why Im so proud to have introduced the Online Safety Bill. It is designed to prevent the spread of harmful, malicious and undignified content just like a 44-year-old former health secretary lip syncing to a Barbie song on TikTok. Mr Sunaks address came after words from journalists including Hugo Gye, who told an anecdote about the teetoal prime minister sampling honey tequila on his stag do. Mr Gye added: Boris Johnson, by the way, denies knowledge of honey tequila. He says hes sure hes never met her. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Rishi Sunak has blamed the pandemic for Britains failing railways as he refused 12 times to rule out scrapping HS2s northern leg in a series of excrutiating interviews. The prime minister said Covid-19 caused everyone to stop travelling on the rail network, which has made running train services very difficult. Challenged on why he had failed the Norths railway passengers so badly amid anger over plans revealed by The Independent to scale back the much-heralded high-speed rail line he replied: There have obviously been challenges on the rail network more generally. And its across the country because of the pandemic. In the excruciating round of interviews with local BBC radio hosts, Mr Sunak refused repeatedly to commit to building the high speed rail network north of Birmingham and instead suggested fixing potholes was priority number one. The PM said there were spades in the ground on phase one of the project, but refused to say whether he was committed to phase two, whichThe Independent revealed Mr Sunak and Jeremy Hunt are considering scrapping to save cash. The prime minister repeatedly highlighted his focus on building better connections between northern towns and cities, investing in local transport such as bus services and making sure potholes are filled. But, asked for a yes or no answer on whether he would scrap HS2s northern leg, the PM said: I am not not speculating on future things. And challenged over the state of Britains rail infrastructure by BBC Radio York, Mr Sunak blamed problems with train services on the pandemic. Presenter Joanita Musisi highlighted operators being stripped of their franchises and being taken into state control. She said: Why have you failed the Norths rail passengers so badly? Mr Sunak replied: There have obviously been challenges on the rail network more generally. And its across the country because of the pandemic, and the government ploughed in billions and billions of pounds to keep our services running. When you have a pandemic and everyone stops travelling on the rail network that makes life very difficult and people can understand that. The Railway Industry Association (RIA) on Monday pointed to Department for Transport (DfT) figures showing that from April 2022 to March 2023, overall rail passenger numbers were the same as in 2012, when the UK Government first confirmed support for HS2. RIA chief executive Darren Caplan said: One of the reasons cited by critical politicians for scrapping HS2 Phase 2 is that passenger numbers are significantly down and people will not travel by train in future. This is plain wrong... today's passenger levels are already significantly higher than when the business case for HS2 was approved, and have been growing back strongly since the pandemic. Speaking to BBC West Midlands, he said what is important is that we are investing in the transport that they use every day. Mr Sunak said the government is working to make sure roads are free of potholes and that bus services are reliable and frequent. In a brutal exchange with BBC Radio Manchesters Anna Jameson, she said: We are straight talking people in the North. It is a yes or a no, are you scrapping the HS2 line between Birmingham and Manchester. Mr Sunak said: Like I said, Im not not speculating on future things. We have spades in the ground right now and are getting on. Ms Jameson said: Is it under review? He said: The government is always making sure that we get value for money out of everything we do but thats just a statement of the obvious. But I think what people also should know, because I know theres a lot of focus on this one thing, but actually what are the journeys that people use most in Greater Manchester or across the north? Its in their cars right now getting to work taking their kids to school making sure that the roads are free of potholes. Thats priority number one. An exasperated Ms Jameson said: We are not talking about potholes, the main story right now across the country is people want to know about the future of HS2 and still now you cant give me a yes or a no. You are the main in control. You have the keys. You can tell us now if it is happening. Mr Sunak said: My point to you is that the vast majority of the journeys that people make are in their cars, making sure that we make sure our roads are well maintained is really important. She interrupted: But we are talking about trains, we are not talking about cars. In one of the biggest political stories of the year, The Independent revealed Mr Sunak was in secret talks dubbed Project Redwood with his chancellor to scrap the second phase of the project. Former chancellor George Osborne and ex-deputy PM Lord Heseltine described the proposal as a gross act of vandalism, which would end up being a case of economic self-harm. After the story broke on 14 September, Downing Street repeatedly stone-walled before ministers accepted talks over the most dramatic decision in years to stop a 34bn infrastructure spend were taking place. The story has prompted unprecedented fallout, with two former prime ministers attacking Mr Sunak amid a cascade of criticism and cabinet divides. Boris Johnson and David Cameron were joined by ex-chancellor Philip Hammond in urging the PM not to cut the high-speed rail route. 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 }} Suella Braverman has hit back at Elton John after he criticised her call to curb asylum for gay people. Challenged about the stars claim she was legitimising hate and violence after she made a speech about migration in the US, she said its not true. Ms Braverman was speaking out after the Independent revealed Eltons fury about her hard-line stance on migrants. Home Secretary Suella Bravermans speech was widely criticised (PA Wire) She also rejected claims she lacks compassion, and defended her remarks on immigration, which drew a backlash from charities and a rebuke from the UN refugee agency. The Home Secretary on Wednesday said it was prudent for political leaders to call out unprecedented levels of migration to western nations. In a lengthy speech to a centre-right think tank in the United States a day earlier, she said offering asylum to a person because they are discriminated against in their home country for being gay or a woman was not sustainable. Asked whether she was without compassion following the speech, the Home Secretary said No, I dont think that is true. And what I would say is that we are facing unprecedented levels of illegal migration, not just in the UK but also in countries like the US and other western or European nations. Its right that we ask for greater collaboration at the international level amongst like-minded partners and, ultimately, the UK cannot sustain such levels of illegal migration or, indeed, legal migration. Its indeed the prudent thing for political leaders to call this out and take steps to address it. Elton John has hit out at Ms Bravermans comments (PA) In her speech she also refused to rule out the UK leaving the United Nations Refugee Convention if it continues unreformed. But the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the organisations refugee agency, swiftly denied there was any need for reform and said the convention remained crucial for protecting people facing persecution. Asked whether overhauling the global refugee charter was a realistic proposal, Ms Braverman told PA: I am inviting my international partners to engage in an exercise of review and reform. Ultimately, I think its legitimate to ask these questions, whether the definition of refugee in the international conventions is still fit for purpose, whether the definition of persecution has been stretched beyond a reasonable limit, and thats in face of these high numbers that we are now seeing. She said the UK Government is making progress with its Rwanda deportation plan which is currently stuck in the courts the Illegal Migration Act and agreements with France and Albania. In Westminster the address was seen by some as an early leadership pitch by Ms Braverman, who is a favourite of some MPs on the right of the party for her tough stance on illegal migration. Sir Ian McKellen said the comments were laced with prejudice (Getty Images) But the Home Secretary said it was flippant to suggest that she was in Washington DC to boost her credentials as the next Conservative leader. Her speech also included warnings of the existential threat of uncontrolled migration and attacks on the misguided dogma of multiculturalism, which she said had failed, with communities living parallel lives. Ms Braverman received the backing of Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer, who told Times Radio: What she was talking about was the importance of integrating people who come here into our communities, and I think thats a really valid point. Echoing Ms Braverman, she also declined to commit to keeping the UK in the UN Refugee Convention. The Stateside visit saw Ms Braverman meet US secretary for homeland security Alejandro Mayorkas, during a visit to the National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) in Alexandria, Virginia. The meeting saw the pair jointly commit to exploring new ways to stop the spread of AI-generated images of child sexual abuse. The Home Secretary said it was important to work hand-in-glove with the US to tackle the issue. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Rishi Sunak repeatedly declined to back his home secretary Suella Braverman over the claim that multiculturalism has failed in her highly-controversial US speech on immigration. In an apparent snub to the cabinet minister, the PM instead praised the UKs fantastic multicultural democracy on Thursday insisting that the nation has done an incredible job of integrating people. Ms Braverman has tried to downplay claims that her speech in Washington DC was paving the way for a future leadership bid, as her critics accused her of issuing a dog whistle to the right. She warned of the existential threat to Britain, and warned that too much immigration would mean what was already there is diluted eventually it will disappear. The home secretary also said the misguided dogma of multiculturalism had failed because it allowed people to come to our society and live parallel lives in it. Pushed on her hardline remarks, Mr Sunak the first British PM of Indian heritage repeatedly declined to back her comments during a round of regional broadcast interviews ahead of the Tory conference. Asked by BBC East Midlands if he agreed with Ms Braverman, Mr Sunak said: I think that this is something that is incredible about this country, is that it is a fantastic multicultural democracy. We have done an incredible job of integrating people into society and one of the lovely things about getting the job I have, as the first person from my background to hold this job, thats a wonderful thing, but its also not a big deal in our country. He added: I think that speaks to the progress weve made over the years and how far weve come and something we should all be collectively incredibly proud of. Rishi Sunak said Britain could be incredibly proud of multiculturalism (PA Wire) Asked if the home secretary was wrong, Mr Sunak said it is important that everyone subscribes to British values but that he believes our country has done an incredibly good job of integrating people from lots of different backgrounds. The home secretary also used a speech in the US on Tuesday to say that simply being gay, or a woman should not by itself be enough to gain protection under international refugee laws sparking outrage from LGBT+ groups. Tory moderates told The Independent that Ms Bravermans speech in Washington was a dog whistle pitch to the Tory right in the event Sunak leads the party defeat at the 2024 general election. Tory grandee Dominic Grieve told The Independent: The tone and language used by the home secretary was outrageous, and belittled many of the valid reasons people have to claim asylum. It was playing to a populist gallery in a way that was extremely unpleasant. Tobias Ellwood told ITVs Peston they were clearly designed for a particular audience and dont do the prime minister any good. But Ms Braverman, whose parents migrated from Mauritius and Kenya, told the PA news agency that such suggestions were slightly flippant and insisted she was working "hand-in-hand with Mr Sunak. 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 }} Britains business bosses have urged Rishi Sunak to stop dithering and finally reveal the future of HS2 after the prime minister refused 12 times to rule out scrapping the northern leg. There are growing fears that the ongoing uncertainty is causing investors to pull out of the UK, after The Independent first revealed plans by Mr Sunak and chancellor Jeremy Hunt to scale back the high-speed rail line. In an excruciating round of interviews with BBC local radio stations, Mr Sunak repeatedly refused to commit to phase 2 and instead suggested that fixing potholes was priority No 1 and blamed Covid for failing railways. It came as the TUC and other trade union chiefs demanded the Sunak government convene an emergency summit to find a solution to the cost of the Birmingham to Manchester route as they called on the prime minister to commit to building it in full. The heads of transport unions the TSSA, RMT and Aslef, as well as Unite and GMB, said in a joint statement: The huge economic benefits of HS2s northern leg must not be squandered because of ongoing Conservative incompetence. In a scathing message to Mr Sunak, Juergen Maier, vice-chairman of Northern Powerhouse Partnership, said: Stop dithering get on with it. Dithering and delay pushes up costs. The ex-Siemens boss told The Independent that global investors had been spooked by the lack of clarity over HS2s future. Its damaging for the firms directly involved who may have to scale back, and its damaging confidence from investors looking where to go in the world. He added: Theyre looking at our lack of industrial strategy and wondering if they can make investments in the UK. Conversations are going on in every boardroom. The dither is incredibly unhelpful. Manchester Airports Group became the latest major business group to call on Mr Sunak to be clear, urging him on Thursday to commit to building the northern leg in full. Ken OToole, the airports incoming chief executive, said the north has been held back for too long by the lack of an integrated transport network. He said the Sunak government must be clear in its support for these transformative schemes. Business leaders were left frustrated as Mr Sunak repeatedly ducked questions on the future of HS2 during a series of awkward pre-conference interviews blaming Covid for the failing railways. Rishi Sunak is under growing pressure to clarify his plans for HS2 (Getty Images) The PM told BBC radio that the pandemic caused everyone to stop travelling on the rail network, which has made running train services very difficult. The Tory leader said there were spades in the ground on phase 1, but refused to say whether he was committed to phase 2, which The Independent revealed Mr Sunak and Mr Hunt are considering scrapping or kicking into the long grass to save cash. Henrietta Brealey, chief of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, told Mr Sunak: Be bold, have vision and be confident that we can do this. Dont wobble at the key moment. It can create so much more than the initial investment. The uncertainty is deeply frustrating, she told The Independent, pointing to the 400 companies and 8,000 jobs in the West Midlands connected to the HS2 supply chain. Businesses are demanding clarity they cant commit to jobs and investment for phase 2. With Mr Sunak not expected to set out his cost-cutting plan until next month, Chris Fletcher, policy director at Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, also called on Mr Sunak to end the madness of uncertainty and commit to the northern leg in full. For some strange reason successive governments, usually driven by the Treasury, have found it impossible to leave well alone and just let it get built, he told The Independent. The resultant delays, changes and re-scoping have added extra, unnecessary costs. Jeremy Hunt and Sunak are thought to be considering seven-year delay (PA) Mark Reynolds, the boss of the firm building HS2s new London station, also delivered a stinging message to Mr Sunak about short-termism, saying we all end up worse off if the project is scaled back. The chief executive of the Mace Group, the firm tasked with redeveloping Euston, told The Independent that companies need certainty, adding: Firms have made important decisions based on an assumption that much-needed new rail capacity will be built. Mr Reynolds added: To make a short-termist decision to cut that away will leave many firms across the whole country unable to convince shareholders or investors in the future that investing in expansion or growth is the right choice and then we all end up worse off. Kate Nicholls, UKHospitality boss, said pubs, clubs and restaurants were eagerly awaiting Mr Sunaks decision. She said Northern Powerhouse Rail is as important, if not more so, than HS2 for businesses because connecting northern cities would be a huge boost. Work on HS2 at Curzon Street station, Birmingham (Getty Images) Meanwhile, the former chairman of HS2 fired back at the governments cost claims blaming short-sighted Tory ministers for the high-speed rail projects spiralling price tag. Allan Cook who ran the project between 2018 and 2021 accused the government of trying to duck responsibility and claimed it would be a scandalous waste of money if Mr Sunak and Mr Hunt were to end the line at Birmingham. Representatives from the Treasury and transport department sat on the HS2 board during my time as chairman, Mr Cook told the Daily Mail. Asked about the idea executives acted like kids with the golden credit card, he said: Nothing could be further from the truth. Mr Sunak is understood to be considering an option to quell a Tory backlash by delaying the Birmingham to Manchester line by up to seven years. There have been indications he could announce a string of regional transport improvements in an effort to limit the political fallout including bringing forward Northern Powerhouse Rail between Manchester and Leeds. On Thursday, the Tees Valley Tory mayor Ben Houchen appeared to offer Mr Sunak his support for cuts by calling HS2 a white elephant and condemning its ridiculous cost. He claimed that if we reallocated the money we could deliver NPR, in full, and give every northern leader enough to transform local transport in their areas and still save the taxpayer 80bn. Recommended Boss of HS2 building firm savages Rishi Sunak over scrapping new London station Senior red wall Tories in the influential Northern Research Group have signalled they are willing to accept a delay to the northern leg of HS2 so long as the PM commits to east-west rail projects. Labour mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham has suggested he could be open to a delay if the government commits to a section of HS2 between Manchester Airport and Manchester Piccadilly. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Rishi Sunak has denied that people feel betrayed by his wavering over the future of HS2 as he remained tight-lipped over its fate. The Prime Minister, giving a string of local broadcast interviews on Thursday, hit out at speculation but declined to set out his position in response to dozens of questions over whether he will scrap the rail projects Birmingham to Manchester leg over soaring costs. The Government is always making sure we get value for money, he said, as he stressed the importance of funding forms of transport he said are in many places far more important to peoples day-to-day lives such as local bus services in rural areas and fixing potholes. During his whirlwind tour of local radio and TV channels ahead of the Conservative Party conference, the Prime Minister was asked by BBC Radio York whether he would be betraying the North by curtailing the high-speed rail line. Mr Sunak replied: No. I think what people will see, I mean particularly around where we are my home is in Northallerton were investing record amounts in improving infrastructure but also delivering levelling up. He said the Government is investing record sums in transport infrastructure. When I speak to people when Im at home or anywhere else around, what everyone tells me is that youve got to make it easier to get around all our northern towns and cities, whether its Hull, York, Leeds, Sheffield, all the way over to Liverpool. Connecting all those cities up is really important and were doing that. But also investing in the local transport that people use every day, making sure that our potholes are filled, making sure that our bus services are running particularly important in rural areas like mine. Government is always making sure that we get value for money out of everything we do Rishi Sunak The Prime Minister repeatedly refused to answer whether HS2s northern leg will go ahead, with the issue likely to dominate his partys conference starting in Manchester on Sunday. The Times reported this week that Mr Sunak is alarmed at the soaring costs associated with the high-profile project, but he has faced a backlash from Tory grandees, businesses and local politicians who have urged him to stick to the levelling up plan. Government is always making sure that we get value for money out of everything we do, he told the citys local BBC radio station. Asked whether he believes the project is value for money, Mr Sunak told BBC North West Tonight: The reality of HS2 is that the costs have doubled since it was originally budgeted for in 2012. He insisted he is always listening to different opinions on the matter, while emphasising his focus on making the right long-term decisions for the country. The Prime Minister shrugged off concerns his indecision over HS2 is damaging investment, talking up other measures to boost business such as freeports. The Prime Minister many times noted during the various interviews there are spades in the ground to build phase one of HS2 between Birmingham and Old Oak Common in the capitals western suburbs. Fending off criticism over terminating the line six miles to the west of central London, instead of at Euston, Mr Sunak said Old Oak Common is a world-class station with fantastic connections to most London destinations. I dont think its right to talk down Old Oak Common in any way shape or form, he told BBC London. Challenged over the mess of the rail network in the North, Mr Sunak acknowledged there are challenges which he blamed on the Covid-19 pandemic. He suggested most journeys are made by car, saying: Making sure that our roads, the potholes are maintained well, making sure that our bus services are running well, thats all important. Mr Sunak said he will probably be driving to the Tory conference because train strikes have been put in place, which is very disappointing actually at a time when people are trying to just get around and do their regular business. I would be catching the train on Saturday if there werent strikes, he said. 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 }} Ryanair announced it has cut its winter flight schedule due to delays in the delivery of new Boeing 737 planes. It will reduce the number of aircraft it planned to base at several airports across Europe, including East Midlands Airport and Dublin Airport. The airline said it was due to receive 27 new Boeing aircraft between September and December, but expects the figure to be just 14. This has been attributed to production delays at the Spirit fuselage factory in Wichita, Kansas, combined with Boeing hold-ups in repairs and deliveries in Seattle, Washington. We apologise sincerely to passengers for any inconvenience caused Michael O'Leary, Ryanair Ryanair boss Michael OLeary said: We are working closely with Boeing and their supplier, Spirit, to minimise these delivery delays. It is deeply regrettable that production problems in Wichita and in Seattle have yet again delayed Boeings contracted deliveries to Ryanair this winter. We are in regular dialogue with Boeing, and our primary objective is to ensure we get delivery of all 57 contracted B737 aircraft before the end of May 2024, so that Ryanairs fleet can grow to over 600 aircraft for what will be our largest ever summer flight programme. These flight cancellations will take effect from the end of October, and will be communicated to all affected passengers by email over the coming days. Passengers will be offered re-accommodation on alternative flights or full refunds as they so wish. We apologise sincerely to passengers for any inconvenience caused by these delivery delays this winter. At this early date, we do not expect these delivery delays will materially affect our full-year traffic target of 183.5 million, but if the delays worsen or extend further into the January to March 2024 period, we may have to revisit this figure and possibly adjust it slightly downward. 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 }} Car production fell by almost 10% in August, following six consecutive months of growth, new figures show. A total of 45,052 models rolled off factory lines, said the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). August typically has the fewest number of cars built because of summer shutdowns but last month was affected by extended production pauses at some plants for planned maintenance and upgrades as car makers gear up to produce the next generation of electric vehicles. After six straight months of growth, a decline in UK car output in what is always the smallest and most variable volume month is not a cause for concern Mike Hawes, SMMT Production for the domestic market fell by a quarter while output for export dropped by 5.5%, driven largely by a decline in shipments to the US, China and Japan. The EU remained the UKs biggest global market with almost six in 10 exports heading for the bloc. In the year to date, overall production has increased by 11.8% to 571,671 units. In August combined volumes of electrified vehicles rose by 2.8% to represent nearly two in five of all cars made, equivalent to 16,511 units. Since January, car makers have built 216,922 of these vehicles, 84,310 more than last year, which the SMMT said was evidence of the UKs capability to be a leader in zero emission production. Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: After six straight months of growth, a decline in UK car output in what is always the smallest and most variable volume month is not a cause for concern. With car manufacturers taking advantage of the summer holiday season to upgrade their plants, this is part of an ongoing commitment to deliver the next generation of electric vehicles, with a record number of these models already being made. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The death of a 15-year-old girl who was stabbed on a bus on the way to school leads Britains news agenda on Thursday. The Daily Express, The Sun and the Daily Mail report on the girls tragic death, with a teenage boy arrested over the incident. The Metro followed suit, saying the killing was a revenge attack while the Daily Mirror draws attention to the knife crime epidemic and is urging the Government to act now. The Daily Telegraph runs with a story on a Metropolitan Police firearms officer who shot a gangster dead and now faces being sacked despite being cleared of criminal wrongdoing. The Times says the Home Secretary has been authorised to float the prospect of leaving the European Convention on Human Rights as a warning shot. Meanwhile, The Guardian runs with a story on one of the Conservative Partys biggest donors being under investigation over his tax affairs. The Independent leads with the leader of the Reclaim Party Laurence Fox and GB News host Dan Wootton, who have both been taken off air after Fox made a sexist rant towards a journalist. The top financial regulator is getting set to launch a sweeping review of valuations in private markets, according to the Financial Times. The i continues its coverage of the Labour 20% VAT on private schools, today reporting on the partys U-turn on their plans. And the Daily Star says Japanese scientists have invented a way to regrow teeth. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The Prime Minister has accused Sir Keir Starmer of wanting to punish the parents of private school pupils and stoking a class war with Labours pledge to charge VAT on school fees. Rishi Sunak, who was privately educated, said the Opposition would be clamping down on the aspirations of parents who work really hard to send their children to independent schools with its policy. But Labour hit back at Mr Sunak, with shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson calling his words an insult to families across the UK. They don't understand the aspiration that people have to provide a better life for their kids Prime Minister Rishi Sunak Mr Sunak attended Winchester College in Hampshire, one of the UKs top and most expensive private schools where fees for day pupils are more than 36,000 per year and boarders pay almost 50,000, according to its website. The Prime Minister, speaking to BBC South Today during a round of regional broadcast interviews ahead of the Conservative Party conference, said: Labours approach illustrates that they just dont understand the aspiration of families like my parents who were working really hard. They wanted to do something for their kids that they thought would make a difference to them. Labours approach to that is to clamp down on it. They dont understand the aspiration that people have to provide a better life for their kids. They want to punish them for that as part of some class war. I dont think that is right. While he was serving as chancellor last year, the Prime Minister and his wife Akshata Murty were noted in Winchester Colleges magazine as having donated 100,000 to the school where he had previously been head boy. The donations fund bursaries for children whose parents would not otherwise be able to send them there. Labour said that the comments showed how out of touch the Prime Minister was. The Prime Ministers words are an insult to the aspiration families across Britain have for their children, Ms Phillipson said. Yet again, he is out of touch with families and out of step with the change we need. Were ending tax breaks for private schools to invest in excellent state education for everyone it is up to private schools as to whether they pass that cost on. It comes after the headmaster of Sir Keirs former school said he hopes the Labour leader sees sense and drops the plan to scrap the 20% VAT tax relief that is currently applied to school fees. Sir Keir has insisted his party is not launching an attack on private schools by removing some of the tax breaks they enjoy, with Labour also planning to end the business rates relief from which independent schools benefit. Shaun Fenton, headteacher at Sir Keirs former school Reigate Grammar, said the Labour policy of abolishing VAT relief on school fees was not going to help any child be better educated. Reigate Grammar in Surrey switched from being a state to an independent school while Sir Keir was in attendance. Labour has said that, under arrangements made as part of the switch, Sir Keirs family did not have to pay towards his education while he was studying there. Mr Fenton, speaking to Times Radio, predicted the added tax would drive thousands of children into the state system, thereby decreasing the amount raised by it. Everyone knows this isnt really going to raise any money and its not going to solve any education problems, he said. The party, citing a study by the Institute for Fiscal Studies think tank, believes changes to tax rules impacting private schools could raise as much as 1.5 billion per year. Sir Keir, who has previously ruled out sending his own children to private school, has himself defended the VAT school fees policy. He told BBCs Political Thinking podcast this week that it was about ensuring state schools are just as good as the independent alternative. He also argued that private schools would not have to pass the additional costs on to parents in the form of increased fees. Labour insiders have insisted changes to charitable status had never been party policy but Ms Phillipson had previously spoken of doing so to fund the most ambitious state school improvement plan in a generation. The Conservatives have accused Labour of backtracking on one of its major policies, with Chief Secretary to the Treasury John Glen saying it was having to admit that their schools tax hike just doesnt work. 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 Denver woman has been found alive after vanishing for five days on her way home from Mexico, it has been reported. Alison Uralli had been missing since September 22, when she was last sighted in a San Diego supermarket. She was reportedly found safe late on Wednesday (September 27). The 28-year-old had gone on a trip in Mexico with her fiance David Zimmerman and was said to have been on her way to the airport in the Californian city to fly back to Colorado when she was last seen in Target. A Facebook page set up to help find Ms Uralli confirmed her whereabouts. Early this afternoon, thanks to the efforts of local resources and law enforcement, Alison Uralli was located alive in San Diego, a post read. Mr Zimmermans whereabouts are still unknown at this time, the post added, although there has not been a wide appeal to find him. The pair have been engaged since May 2022. The statement continued: Alisons loved ones extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped raise awareness, sent tips and kept a spotlight on her case. Thanks in large part to the public, Alison was found alive. A poster to help find Alison Uralli (June Makin / Facebook) It added: There are obviously many unanswered questions in this case. It is up to the families and law enforcement what additional information will be released, if any. Please respect the familys privacy as they navigate next steps and process emotions of the last several days. The Denver Police Department had told The Independent earlier on Wednesday that no case was open for Ms Uralli, while San Diego Police confirmed they were looking into it. A picture posted to help find Rachel Uralli (Facebook) A friend had compared Ms Uralli to actress Rachel McAdams amid the search and shared the above photo. Alison is like Rachel McAdams in the early 2000s, she has many different hair colors and it always looks amazing on her, she wrote on Facebook. This is Alisons last known hair colour and pictures of her prominent tattoos for identification purposes. Please be ok sweet girl. 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 }} Activists in Mississippis majority-Black capital city are trying to join a federal lawsuit against the city for violating standards for clean drinking water, even as they say the Black judge presiding over the case is stirring racial division. The activists from the Mississippi Poor Peoples Campaign and Peoples Advocacy Institute filed court papers Wednesday asking to intervene in the federal governments lawsuit against Jackson. During a news conference Wednesday, activists said they spoke for residents in the 80% Black city who want more say over reforms to the water system. We feel like our lives are on the chopping block here in the city of Jackson," said Danyelle Holmes, an organizer with the Mississippi Poor Peoples Campaign. "We could no longer sit by idly as government agencies allow residents to be told that it's OK to drink unclean water. The federal government has taken legal steps to scrutinize Jacksons water quality for over a decade. But in November, the Justice Department accelerated its involvement after breakdowns in Jackson caused many in the city of about 150,000 residents to go days and weeks without safe running water. Last August and September, people waited in lines for water to drink, bathe, flush toilets and cook. U.S. District Judge Henry Wingate appointed Ted Henifin, who had decades of experience running water systems in other states, to help fix Jackson's long-troubled water system. Henifin began working on several projects to improve the water infrastructure, such as repairing broken water lines and a plan to improve the city's ability to collect water bills. Henifin said in June that he was not aware of any health risk in drinking Jackson water and that "we really need to be careful with messaging about the water. At a multi-day federal court hearing in July, activists said they had received mixed messages about whether Jackson's water was safe to drink. Some residents reported discolored water flowing from their pipes even after public health orders were lifted. Activists also said they were being kept in the dark about the status of reforms. After Congress awarded Jackson $600 million for water repairs, some city leaders and activists also said they wanted Henifin to look for minority-owned firms when awarding contracts for infrastructure projects. Henifin, who is white, said he had been transparent about the quality of Jackson's water and his work as the interim manager. He also mentioned plans to launch a minority contracting program that would employ Black-owned firms whenever possible, WLBT-TV reported. In a July 21 ruling, Wingate, who is Black, said many of the concerns raised by the Black activists were without merit. They have no experience in water management, and no logical rationale why an African American would be better suited to fix a lingering problem which has gone unsolved for decades by past African American leadership, Wingate wrote. During Wednesday's news conference, activists lambasted the judge for his comments. When the judge made his statement that we just want someone Black to fix our water, that is very disingenuous. That's a disgrace," Holmes said. "You have a judge who is pitting Black against white, poor against the wealthy, and it's totally unfair. Whether you're Black, white or brown, we're all consuming the same water unless you're wealthy and have purchased a filtration system, which many of the residents who are predominantly Black cannot afford. Brooke Floyd, co-director of the Jackson Peoples Assembly, said even those without expertise in water management should be able to voice concerns. I think it's just unconscionable that it was even brought up," Floyd said. "The race stuff was ridiculous, and it's also ridiculous to say that because we are upset our water is not safe to drink, that we should just go sit down and be quiet and take what is given to us. If they are allowed to join the federal lawsuit, Jackson community groups would have an institutionalized role in settlement negotiations, the activists said. They are asking for the installation of water filters in homes, more open meetings convened by the Environmental Protection Agency and a range of other demands. In a text message to The Associated Press on Wednesday, Henifin said he did not have a comment because he is not a party in the lawsuit. Henifin had hoped to complete his work as Jackson's interim water manager in one year or less. Rukia Lumumba, executive director of the Peoples Advocacy Institute and sister of Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba, said she wants the city to work cordially with Henifin while he is still in Jackson. As it relates to long-term, we want to see someone in Jackson that lives here, Rukia Lumumba said. We want to see the city have the resources to fully operate the water system itself where we dont have to have another third-party operator. ___ Michael Goldberg is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow him at @mikergoldberg. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The number of first responders from the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) who have died from 9/11-related illnesses is now equal to those who died on the day of the historic tragedy. Two further members of the FDNY died in September, bringing the total to 343, the same number as those who died in the immediate aftermath of the attacks on the World Trade Centre, the Penatgon and in Pennylvania on September 11, 2001. Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh announced the deaths of emergency medical technician (EMT) Hilda Vannata and retired firefighter Robert Fulco on Saturday marking the somber, remarkable milestone. Ms Vannata died on Wednesday September 20 after a battle with cancer, having joined the fire department in 1988 and serving as an EMT with Battalion 14-Lincoln Hospital for 26 years, her obituary stated. Mr Fulco died of pulmonary fibrosis on Saturday. Both deaths were a result of the time the pair spent working in rescue and recovery at the site of the attack. It comes just two weeks after the 22nd anniversary of the tragedy, which claimed a total of 2,997 lives and injured thousands more. We have long known this day was coming, yet its reality is astounding just the same, said Commissioner Kavanagh in a statement shared online. With these deaths, we have reached a somber, remarkable milestone. We have now suffered the same number of deaths post September 11th as we experienced that day when the north and south towers fell. Our hearts break for the families of these members, and all who loved them. In her post Ms Kavanagh reiterated the forces responsibility to NYPD colleagues, 11,000 of which are suffering from World Trade Center-related diseases, including 3,500 with cancer. According to the World Trade Center health registry, which tracks the health of 9/11 first responders and those in the vicinity of the event, 71,000 people are enrolled in its programme. It makes the registry the largest effort in the US to monitor the health of people exposed to a large-scale disaster. Our commitment to their service and sacrifice must remain as unshakeable for the next two decades as it has been for the last two, Ms Kavanaghs statement read. So many of our members showed up for us that fateful day, and so many were lost. The legacy we create for them is one of honor, and one of promise. That is why we continue to advocate for the survivors, and we will not stop pushing until all our members have the care they deserve, for the rest of their lives. 343 of our heroes lost in one day, and today, 343 more. The FDNY will never forget them. This is our legacy. This is our promise. 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 }} Doctors at a hospital in Ohio have been accused of propping up a dead patient to make her appear alive, even though she had died hours earlier during a routine surgery, according to a lawsuit. The patient was an unidentified 65-year-old woman who had been in "good health" before she underwent surgery at Adena Health System in Chillicothe, Ohio, according to the Scioto Valley Guardian. The woman's family is suing the hospital over discrepancies between her death certificate and hospital records concerning the time of her death. Her records insist that she died at 1pm local time, but her death certificate lists her death as two hours later, at 3.05pm. The later time was when family members say they were brought into her room and shown the woman's body, allegedly propped up to appear as though she was alive. The family is demanding to know the truth behind her death and why she was allegedly made to appear alive when they visited. Dr Jarrod Betz, a cardiologist who has reportedly faced previous scrutiny, performed the operation on the woman. The Scioto Valley Guardian previously reported that Dr Betz had performed at least three transcatheter aortic valve operations despite not being properly credentialed for such highly specialized surgeries. The entrance to Adena Health, where a family claims staffers propped up their dead relative to convince them she was still alive after dying in a routine surgery (screengrab/NBC4) The doctor allegedly cut into an artery during the operation, according to the newspaper. He reportedly believed that he had gotten the bleeding under control, but the woman was actually still bleeding when she was returned to an ICU. A second cardiologist, Dr Atiq Reham, took over the operation and attempted to save the woman, but she later died under his care, according to medical records. The family learned that the county coroner, Ben Trotter, was an employee of Adena Health System, and has asked for an independent autopsy. The Independent has reached out to Adena Health Systems and Dr Betz 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 }} A teenager whose account of how her mother took her own life after she was accused of Munchausen-by-proxy, which was at the centre of a recent Netflix documentary, shared a heartbreaking letter to her family as the trial continued. Maya Kowalski took to the stand before the jury entered the courtroom on Tuesday, as her lawyer argued why the letter should be admitted into evidence in the $200m Florida lawsuit. Her family allege that doctors at Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital separated the then-nine-year-old from her family after accusing her of faking symptoms of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Their story was featured in Netflixs Take Care of Maya documentary, which alleged Mayas mother Beata took her own life after she was denied access to her daughter for 87 days. Maya, now 17, said on Tuesday that she had written a letter to her family to express how much I missed them but that she did not want to be too explicit about her condition for fear that doctors would not have sent the letter on. At the time, I desperately missed my family and wasnt really able to have any contact with them, she said, according to Fox13. In this document, Im expressing (that) I miss them. I was extremely depressed. Maya Kowalski is now 17 (Netflix) The judge later allowed the document, which contains a small drawing of Maya and her family encased in a heart, to be admitted into evidence. The youngster was brought to an emergency room at Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital in October 2016 to seek help for CRPS syndrome, a rare and debilitating disease. Maya had been taking ketamine infusion therapy for a year to treat the symptoms, her family say. When her mother Beata, a nurse, arrived at the hospital and insisted her daughter be given more ketamine, staff became suspicious and contacted a Child Abuse Hotline. A state judge and Floridas Department of Children and Families later sided with doctors who suspected Beata was suffering from Munchausen-by-proxy syndrome, a psychological disorder where parents fabricate their childs illness. Maya was ordered to be held in the hospital by the judge, and prevented from seeing Beata, and after 87 days the 43-year-old took her own life. Beata Kowalski was just 43 when she took her own life in January 2017 after being separated from her daughter for months by the courts following false accusations of Munchausen by proxy (Netflix) Maya did not testify in front of jurors on Tuesday, though the court heard from her original paediatrician, Dr John Wassenaar, who was given the letter by her mother as part of her daughters medical record. "I thought it underscored that she wasnt being abused, people werent doing things to her that put her in pain" he said. According to Fox13 he added: "It underscored to me how much she loved her parents and how much she wanted to be reunited with them." Dr Wassenaar also testified that CRPS was rare in children, and that he had not experienced it presenting as a generalised pain symptom before. Last Thursday, Maya wept in court as opening arguments in the case were presented, with her familys lawyer Greg Anderson telling the court that she had been falsely imprisoned, battered (and) denied communication with her family. Howard Hunter, representing Johns Hopkins All Childrens, lawyer Howard Hunter insisted the hospital meant no harm to Maya. The issue here is who is responsible for it. We will go over the facts and what the facts dont show in terms of any connection of what was done by All Childrens and that tragic result, Mr Hunter said, according to Fox13. Mr Hunter added: The evidence will show you that All Childrens Hospital was not trying to imprison this young lady. We were trying to get her stabilized and transferred to somewhere where she could get the help she needed ... Once the court entered an order that she was to be sheltered under [Department of Children and Families], All Childrens could not discharge her without court approval We are going to ask you to avoid conflating what was ordered by the court with what was done by the hospital. The Kowalski family is suing Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital and the Department of Children and Families for $55m in compensatory damages and $165m in punitive damages. The trial is estimated to take two months. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The families of those who died in the condo collapse in Surfside, near Miami, have spoken out against plans for a luxury skyscraper to be built on the collapse site. Within the design plans, it can be seen that the trash bay for the new luxury real estate project would be located right next to a memorial park for the 98 people who lost their lives. Families have labelled this decision as disrespectful to those who lost their lives over two years ago, to place a memorial park right by the trash. The memorial park, which the developer has promised to build, will not be finished until the whole skyscraper is constructed, the Washington Post reported. Champlain Towers South, located on the beachfront of 88th Street partially collapsed on 24 June 2021, killing 98 people. It is thought that slowly over time, the concrete reinforcements of the building were possibly being corroded by the water. Other investigations found severe strength deficiency to the structure, reports WPLG. Despite the collapse, DAMAC International, a Dubai-based developer has drawn up plans to build upon the site where tragedy struck only two years ago. The new skyscraper will include 57 condos and two pools. So far, DAMAC has only built properties mostly in Dubai, but some also in Saudi Arabia and Qatar. In an almost six-hour special commission meeting at the Surfside Town Hall on Wednesday, families, the Surfside community and local politicians got into a heated debate surrounding the issue of the memorial being next to the trash bay. "The trash is still being collected on the corner of 88th Street and the loading dock is still 20, 30, I dont know what exact per cent of 88th Street, but it doesnt matter if they keep shifting it, its still on 88th street," said Miami Martin Langesfeld, who lost his sister Nicole Langesfeld and brother-in-law Luis Sadovnic in the collapse. "It needs to be completely moved off to Collins Avenue, just like the building next door." Having the trash go here, whether youre pushing it back a few feet or not, thats still having trash hooks exactly where our family was killed, said Langesfeld during the meeting. During the debate, other relatives and friends of the victims had only three minutes to state why they were against the location of the trash loading dock. The collapse happened in June 2021, despite an investigation still ongoing into its fall, developers want to build on the site (AP) Tensions rose when a heated debate broke out between Mayor Schlomo Dazinger and Comissioner Nelly Velasquez over divides between the two sides. Two residents also had to be escorted out for causing disruption in the meeting, with one making a hand gesture towards the mayor. East Oceanside Development, LLC, associated with DAMAC, bought the property for $120 million a year after 98 people tragically lost their lives in their homes. In the end, Surfside commissioners voted 3-2 to approve the skyscraper plan, but with certain conditions. Mayor Dazinger voted yes, while Commissioner Velasquez voted no. One of the conditions included moving the trash loading site to the southwest corner of Collins Avenue. Yet, the Florida Department of Transportation will also have to approve this condition, and if they deem, as the DAMAC developer cited, it to be too dangerous on the new corner then it will return to the original plan back to near the memorial park. 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 }} Soldier Travis King has touched down on US soil after being expelled from North Korea, a Defense Department official said. Mr King, 23, arrived at Kelly Field at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston at around 1:30 am ET on Thursday morning, the official told CNN. The soldier was seen being escorted off a plane by several people and was taken to another area of the military base. It comes nearly two months after Mr King was taken into North Korean custody after he made a sudden dash across the border into the country while on a guided tour in the demilitarised zone separating the North and South. Washington declined to declare him a prisoner of war despite heated debate within the government. State news agency KCNA reported on Wednesday that Mr King had confessed to illegally entering the country back in July. But following months of intense diplomacy, Mr King was turned over to American authorities by North Korea in China yesterday. Pyongyang reportedly deported him after concluding its investigation into his illegal entry into the country, a report said. In a statement, White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan praised what he described as the dedication of the interagency team that has worked tirelessly out of concern for Private Kings wellbeing. A senior US official who briefed reporters on the developments said the US government had successfully facilitated his departure from North Korea following what the official described as a months-long effort involving multiple US government agencies which had been undertaken out of concern for Private Kings well-being and a desire to reunite him with his family. Photo of Travis King shared by his family (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) The official added that the US had been reaching out to Pyongyang through multiple channels over the last two months including through the United Nations and the United Nations Command which oversees the allied military presence in South Korea to gain information on Mr Kings welfare and to secure his safe return home. It is understood that Mr King fled across the border into North Korea on 18 July rather than board a US-bound plane to face discipline by military authorities at home. Prior to this, the soldier had been detained for more than 40 days in a South Korean penal facility after he was convicted on assault and destruction of private property charges. On his release on 10 July, he was scheduled to return home to his home base at Fort Bliss in Texas, the SCMP previously reported. But he skipped the flight and crossed into North Korea. North Korea previously claimed that its investigation into Mr Kings crossing had revealed that he was seeking refuge in the country due to inhuman treatment in the US military, antipathy to racism and disillusionment with the unequal US society. A Defence Department official said the militarys focus at this time is caring for Private King and his family, and stressed that upon arrival in the US, he will be evaluated by some very talented, experienced and experienced team who will guide him through a reintegration process that will address any medical and emotional concerns and ensure we get him in a good place to reunite with his family. The official said questions of the soldiers disciplinary status and any possible court-martial would be resolved following completion of his reintegration. 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 gunman killed three people in the Dutch city of Rotterdam on Thursday, shooting a local woman and her daughter in their home then storming into a classroom of Rotterdams university hospital and opening fire on a male teacher. The 32-year-old suspect, a university student, shot dead the 39-year-old woman who lived in his neighbourhood, and shot her 14-year-old daughter. The girl died later in hospital, police said. After setting the womans house on fire, the gunman went to the Rotterdam Medical Centre university hospital, where he entered a classroom and shot dead a 43-year-old teacher. The man was arrested near the hospital, where he also started a fire. His motive was unknown. Rotterdams chief prosecutor Hugo Hillenaar said: The suspect was known to law enforcement and in 2021 he was prosecuted and convicted for animal abuse. The shooting sent patients and medics fleeing the Erasmus Medical Centre, including some who were wheeled out of the building in beds. Others barricaded themselves into rooms and stuck hand-written signs to windows to show their location. Medical staff leave the Erasmus MC Rotterdam hospital on Rochussenstraat (EPA) The force initially said the gunman may have left the scene on a motorbike, but they later said an arrest team was checking the medical centre to establish if he was still in the building. They added they did not believe any other shooters were involved. Videos posted online showed police instructing students, some wearing medical gowns, to run outside as heavily armed arrest teams arrived at the scene. Some staff barricaded themselves in rooms while the search was going on (Reuters) One video showed a man in handcuffs wearing what appeared to be camouflage pants, whilst the Erasmus Medical Centre appealed on social media for people not to attend the hospital. Police were still in search of possible victims or people hiding on Thursday evening, Dutch news agency ANP reported citing police. This is a very dark day, caretaker minister of justice and security Dilan Yesilgoz-Zegerius was quoted by newspaper de Telegraaf as saying in comments made in Brussels. It was a black day, added Rotterdam mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb. Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima expressed their sympathy on social media. Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the victims of the violence this afternoon in Rotterdam, the royal pair wrote. We also think of everybody who lived in fear during these terrible actions. 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 desperate Vladimir Putin, increasingly isolated on the world stage, is eyeing a return to the UN Human Rights Council and he has launched a shameless charm offensive to get him there. Armed with stolen Ukrainian grain, the Russian president is on a mission to curry favour with potential backers ahead of a vote for council membership next month, although his efforts are likely to fall short. Two years after being kicked off the panel for invading its neighbour, Putin has ordered his diplomats to try and secure the backing of enough countries for Moscow to beat two other eastern European nations on 10 October. A Russian position paper circulated to dozens of other countries ahead of the vote strikes a markedly different tone to the nuclear threats and wartime sabre-rattling of Putins addresses since he invaded Ukraine, calling for constructive mutually respectful dialogue and referring to the 47-member Human Rights Council as a key body in the United Nations system. Russia is competing with Albania and Bulgaria to win one of two spots up for grabs on the council that are reserved for central and eastern European nations. Ironically one of the countries being replaced is in fact Ukraine its and the Czech Republics terms are expiring. Moscow is going all out to try and reverse the April 2022 vote that saw it booted, experts tell The Independent. Then, 93 countries voted in favour of suspending Russia, while 24 voted against and 58 abstained. Russia is apparently offering incentives such as grain and arms in exchange for votes. Along with other moves to deepen relations with Africa, we know that President Putin had already promised African states grain back in July at the Russia-Africa Summit, says Yousuf Syed Khan, a senior lawyer at international human rights firm Global Rights Compliance. At the same time, Russia is engaged in the systematic pillage of Ukraines grain, having rebuilt infrastructure to harness the ability to export millions of tonnes from occupied Ukrainian territory into Russia. This is not a coincidence, the war crimes lawyer adds. Russia has been accused of weaponising global food security in its war against Ukraine, targeting key Ukrainian infrastructure with missile strikes while at the same time pulling out of a UN-brokered deal that had allowed Kyiv to keep exporting grain to other parts of the world where rising food prices are pushing more people into poverty. The bottom line is that Russia is in no better standing to join the Human Rights Council now than it was nearly 18 months ago when it was voted off. In many ways, its bid to re-join and the outcome of the vote will be a barometer of Russias international standing, Khan says. Alongside what it can offer in terms of trade, Khan says Russia will likely try to convince smaller countries that they do not want to be instrumentalised to serve the political wills of Western nations. This logic may speak to some of the African States that Russia will desperately need to vote in its favour, he tells The Independent. This tallies with the language in the position paper Russian diplomats have already distributed. The paper says Moscow believes it is important to prevent the increasing trend of turning the Human Rights Council into the instrument, which serves political wills of one group of countries punishing non-loyal governments for their independent internal and external policy, reported CNN. Alfred de Zayas, a former independent UN expert on human rights, says he believes the odds are stacked against Russia rejoining the council, despite the concerns voiced in recent days by Western officials. At present, there are five eastern European states represented in the council Czechia [the Czech Republic], Georgia, Lithuania, Montenegro and Ukraine. The terms of Czechia and Ukraine expire in December 2023. There are two openings but three candidates Albania, Russia and Bulgaria, he tells The Independent. De Zayas says that there was little in Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrovs recent comments at the UN General Assembly in New York to suggest a rapprochement with the collective West is any nearer. But at the same time, he argues that including Russia on multilateral platforms like the Human Rights Council is exactly what is needed to work towards peace talks to end the Ukraine war. Maximum inclusiveness, bringing in as many countries as possible would be desirable, so that meaningful exchanges of ideas and perspectives could be conducted. Excluding Russia is counterproductive because it closes an important avenue of compromise and quid pro quo, says De Zayas. Precisely because there is a war going on, it is crucial to take advantage of every forum of dialogue, he suggests. For Khan, however, Russias ongoing abuses in Ukraine are likely to see Putins charm offensive fall short. Since the initial days of its full-scale invasion in February last year, Russia has been engaged in starvation as a method of warfare across Ukraine, he says, recounting Moscows significant human rights violations during the conflict. Unlawful conduct includes the laying of sieges to areas such as Chernihiv and Mariupol while denying access to even the most basic items required for civilian survival such as food, medicine and potable water. More recently, we have seen Russia attacking grain ports along the Danube, forcing Ukraine to pivot to the Sulina Channel with its exports and to work with Romania, to elicit sanctions relief for Moscow. Russia also destroyed at least 270,000 tonnes of grain in late July and early August alone. None of this is being done with any valid military objective. The latest report by Mariana Katzarova, the UNs special rapporteur on Russias rights situation within its own borders, noted that rights have been on a steady decline over the last two decades but things have significantly deteriorated since its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Mass arbitrary arrests, detentions and harassment were recorded for anyone speaking out against Russias war on Ukraine or daring to criticise the governments actions, the report found. The UNs website says that with membership on the [Human Rights] Council comes a responsibility to uphold high human rights standards. One would hope that all nations vote in line with the HRC membership criteria, says Khan, who has worked with the UN for a decade on atrocity inquiries, adding that on this point Russia is falling far short. 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 }} Three people have been killed in overnight shootings and an explosion in Sweden, as deadly violence linked to a feud between criminal gangs escalated. A man was killed and another injured in a shooting in Jordbro on Wednesday night, just hours after an 18-year-old man was shot dead in a Stockholm suburb. The deadly shootings were followed by an explosion early on Thursday that killed a woman in her 20s in Uppsala, west of Stockholm. Local media said the woman was likely not the target of the blast, which damaged five houses, and police are treating her death as murder. The two shootings bring the death toll from gun violence in September to 11, according to Swedish broadcaster SVT, making it the deadliest month for shootings since police started keeping statistics in 2016. Police patrol at the scene after a shooting in Jordbro, Sweden (EPA) It is not yet known whether the three incidents are linked but Swedish media said at least two were connected to a feud between criminal gangs, a growing problem in Sweden which has seen a spate of drive-by shootings and bombings. Two gangs one led by a Swedish-Turkish dual national who lives in Turkey, the other by his former lieutenant are reportedly fighting over drugs and weapons. Three people have been arrested over the Jordbro shooting, while two are being held in connection with the Uppsala explosion, which was so violent that the fronts of two houses were completely destroyed. Police patrol at the scene after a shooting in Jordbro, Sweden (Getty Images) Earlier this week, two powerful explosions ripped through a street in central Sweden, injuring at least three people and damaging buildings, with bricks and window sections strewn across the road. Swedens center-right government has been tightening laws to tackle gang-related crime, while the head of Swedens police has said that warring gangs have brought an unprecedented wave of violence to the country. Earlier this week, Swedens justice minister Gunnar Strommer reiterated that the government will increase the penalty from three years to five years for possessing explosives without a permit from the start of April, when new legislation comes into force. Additional reporting from agencies. 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 }} Russian troops have been executed for retreating from Putins offensive in the eastern city of Avdiivka, Donetsk, according to the White House. We have information that the Russian military has been actually executing soldiers who refuse to follow orders, White House spokesperson John Kirby told a media briefing on Thursday. Ukrainian forces have been repelling the Russian onslaught on the frontline in Donetsk for several weeks since mid-October. It comes as Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said Putin had lost at least a brigdade of troops in the offensive as Kyivs forces pushed them back. The invaders made several attempts to surround Avdiivka, but each time our soldiers stopped them and threw them back, causing painful losses. In these cases, the enemy lost at least a brigade, Zelensky said. Meanwhile, Oleksandr Shtupun, a spokesperson for Ukraines southern groups of forces, said last week that Russian forces had suffered over 400 casualties a day in its campaign which has relied on small assault groups of 30 to 40 men. 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 soldiers fought off fierce Russian attacks on the battlefield on Wednesday as the invading troops continued to recapture lost territory in eastern Ukraine, military officials said. Some progress was also seen in southern Ukraine another pocket of heavy territorial battle in Russias 20-month-old invasion. "We continue to repel intense enemy attacks near Klishchiivka and Andriivka. The enemy is still storming these positions with the hope of recapturing lost positions, but without success," Ilia Yevlash, a spokesperson for Ukraines eastern group of forces, told national television. The two villages Klishchiivka and Andriivka near Bakhmut were retaken from Russian control in mid-September in a span of three days, marking a significant territorial feat in the Ukrainian counteroffensive. There had been 544 Russian shelling incidents in the past 24 hours in the area, seven combat clashes and four air attacks, the military spokesperson said. Officials, including president Volodymyr Zelensky, also confirmed advances in the fighting. True Ukrainian fury against the occupiers in our Donetsk region! The Bakhmut direction, including fierce battles for Klishchiivka, he said and mentioned our advance in the Donetsk sector in the east but did not share more details. Air strikes were also reported on four localities in the area by Ukraines General Staff who said 15 towns and villages had come under artillery and mortar attack in the past day. The heavy fighting in the region was also corroborated by Russias defence ministry who mentioned heavy fighting and said its forces had beaten back 10 attacks by Ukrainian troops near Klishchiivka and further south, near the village of Nevelske. In its next target on the battlefield, Ukrainian forces are eyeing several other villages as they progress through Zaporizhzhia region towards the major town of Tokmak. Military analyst Roman Svitan said there have been three or four days of painstaking hard work by our assault group and commanders in the area which have led to very serious problems for the Russians. "I would not speak of a breakthrough until we reach Tokmak." Tokmak, a Ukrainian city in south-central point in Zaporizhzhia oblast and just 12 miles from the frontline, is considered to be a critical mark in territorial fight which will give Kyivs forces a leverage to advance further and repel more Russian attacks. Ukraine fired its counteroffensive salvo in June to recoup ground in the east. Its forces are also trying to advance southward to the Sea of Azov to sever a land bridge established by Russia between the annexed Crimean Peninsula and positions it holds in the east. 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 }} Several hundred fighters of the Wagner mercenary group have returned to Ukraine to fight in Russias continuing invasion but have not made a significant impact on the battlefield, military officials in Kyiv said. "We have recorded the presence of a maximum of several hundred fighters of the former Wagner PMC (private military company)," spokesperson for the eastern military command Serhiy Cherevatyi said. These Wagner fighters were scattered in different places, were not part of a single unit, and had had no significant impact, he said. "They do not constitute any integral, systematic, organised force," the spokesperson said. "As they say game over. These are pathetic remnants, nothing good awaits them here." The Independent has not verified the reports on Wagners return on the battlefield. If confirmed, this will mark the first ever comeback of Wagner in Ukraine after the death of its supreme leader Yevgeny Prigozhin in August. Russias Investigative Committee says it has confirmed Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin was killed in a plane crash. On 23 August, Prigozhins private jet came down north-west of Moscow, killing all those on board. Video footage showed debris falling from the sky above Kuzhenkino in Russia, with pictures emerging of the wreckage. His right-hand man Dmitry Utkin was also on board the Embraer Legacy 600 jet, as well as five other passengers and three crew members. Russian military bloggers have reported that some Wagner fighters have been returning to Ukraine. In this photo released by the Belarusian Defense Ministry on Thursday, July 20, 2023, soldiers of the Special Operations Forces (SOF) and mercenary fighters from Wagner private military company pose for a photo while the weeklong maneuvers that will be conducted at a firing range near the border city of Brest, Belarus (Belarus' Defense Ministry) The officials in Kyiv condemned the group on Wednesday once again and denied its existence. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said the group comprising majorly of prison convicts no longer existed. "Today, there are only former militants of the terrorist group who have scattered in all directions," he wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. He said some had gone to Africa, some were dispersed through Russia, and some had contracts with the Russian Defence Ministry and were fighting in the Bakhmut sector. Reports of their return were intended to drown out news of Ukraines recapture of two villages near Bakhmut, the official said. The mercenaries, responsible for carrying out Russias dirty work in Africa, also played a crucial role in Russias continuing invasion of Ukraine and handed Vladimir Putin one of Moscows biggest territorial feats by capturing the eastern city of Bakhmut in May. It came after one of the longest and fiercest battles of Moscows 19-month war in Ukraine. But after complaints of ammunition starvation, Wagner chief Prigozhin announced he and his fighters will leave Bakhmut after the battle. Some of them went to Belarus under a deal that ended a brief mutiny by Wagner in June, during which it took control of a Russian military headquarters and marched on Moscow. After Prigozhins death, the Kremlin has sought to bring the group under tighter state control. Sign up to our free weekly IndyTech newsletter delivered straight to your inbox Sign up to our free IndyTech newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the IndyTech email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} OpenAI, the company behind the viral AI chatbot ChatGPT, is reportedly in talks with renowned Apple designer Jony Ive to create an artificial intelligence device. The venture, which also involves SoftBanks Masayoshi Son, aims to build the iPhone of artificial intelligence, according to the Financial Times. Several brainstorming sessions between Mr Ive and OpenAI boss Sam Altman have already taken place, while Japanese tech giant SoftBank is said to have pledged more than $1 billion towards the project. Few details are given about what form the device might take, with possibilities ranging from a standalone ChatGPT-enabled smart speaker, to headphones that allow wearers to interface directly with the AI bot. Mr Ive left Apple in 2019 after 27 years at the company to form his own design company, called LoveForm, which is involved in the latest collaboration. Alongside the iPhone, Mr Ive played a crucial role in designing other Apple products like the iPad, iPod and MacBook. His latest creation is likely to forego a screen, according to people familiar with the matter. The Independent has reached out to OpenAI for comment. Reports of the partnership emerged in the same week that OpenAI announced that ChatGPT now has direct access to the internet, as well as the ability to see, hear and speak. The addition of voice and image recognition tools gives the generative AI similar capabilities to virtual assistants like Amazons Alexa and Apples Siri. The internet connectivity feature also brings it in line with other leading AI tools like Googles Bard. ChatGPT can now browse the internet to provide you with current and authoritative information, complete with direct links to sources, OpenAI announced on Wednesday. It is no longer limited to data before September 2021. Browsing is particularly useful for tasks that require up-to-date information, such as helping you with technical research, trying to choose a bike, or planning a vacation. Meta also announced the launch of several new chatbots this week, with chief executive Mark Zuckerberg saying the AI bots will come with different personalities based on real people. The chatbots will work through Metas apps, which include Instagram, Messenger and WhatsApp. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice A US woman was forced to cancel her entire trip to Spain after an airline caught her attempting a popular money-saving travel hack. Theresa McKinney had originally booked a trip from her home city of Cleveland, Ohio, to Madrid, with a short stopover in Newark, New Jersey. However, upon realising her husband was going on a business trip to Boston, Ms McKinney decided to accompany him as she had always wanted to explore the New England state, reports Insider. When she tried to change her flight from Cleveland to Boston, McKinney was told by United Airlines that the cost would be $900. Instead, she booked a flight from Boston to Newark for $60 again with United intending to miss the first leg of her booking and then catch the second leg of her planned flight to the Spanish capital. This is a version of a trick known as skiplagging. Passengers will deliberately book a flight with a layover as they are often cheaper, but will skip the second leg, with the layover city actually being their planned destination. In this case, Ms McKinneys circumstances saw her skip the first leg. However, Ms McKinney had her flight to Newark cancelled by United for being a duplicate booking, meaning she had to reach the New Jersey airport on a JetBlue flight in time to join the plane heading to Europe. In the end, her choice to go to Boston cost her the entire holiday. Once I landed, an agent pulled up my itinerary and asked why I wasnt on my flight from Cleveland, she said. I didnt 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. Skiplagging is not illegal, but it is against most airlines terms and conditions. They told me because I didnt get on my first flight from Cleveland, my entire itinerary would be cancelled, and my only option was to rebook my ticket for the (apparently unavoidable) fare difference of $900, she added. Instead of paying the fee, McKinney cancelled her plans as they were mostly refundable, and later received a $439 airline voucher for the cost of her original trip. Youll never catch me intentionally missing a connection again, she added. The Independent has contacted United Airlines for comment. Joe Biden faced down heckles from climate protesters as he delivered a speech in Arizona. As activists in the audience started shouting, the US President said that he would d be happy to meet after he had finished his speech. The interruption persisted and Biden looked down silently for a few seconds, before saying: I tell you what, if you shush up Ill meet with you immediately after this, ok? His response was met with cheers and applause from the crowd. Biden then started his speech, before cracking an off-the-cuff joke about the interruption. Democracy is never easy, he began. As demonstrated. Blue star Lee Ryan has been handed a 12-month suspended prison sentence at Isleworth Crown Court for racially aggravated common assault by beating and behaving in an abusive way towards a cabin crew member. He had earlier pleaded guilty to being drunk on an aircraft, for which he was handed a four-month jail term, suspended, to run concurrently. Ryan confessed to drinking a whole bottle of port and eating cheese in the British Airways lounge after the flight was delayed and said he had no memory of the incident. Donald Trump called Joe Biden a wretched old vulture during a rambling speech to auto workers in Michigan on 27 September. Mr Trump made the comments as he skipped out on the second GOP debate, choosing again to try and draw focus as his Republican rivals battled it out onstage in Silicon Valley. The former president told a non-union auto worker crowd that crooked Joe Biden is back like a wretched old vulture trying to finish off his prey, before embarking on a nonsensical rant against electric vehicles and windmills. The UKs air traffic control (ATC) system is the worst in Europe, the boss of Ryanair has claimed. Michael OLeary made the comment as he launched a tirade calling for National Air Traffic Services (Nats) chief executive Martin Rolfe to be sacked. Ryanair was among the airlines affected when a Nats technical glitch caused major disruption across UK airports on 28 August. The ATC provider has also repeatedly suffered problems at Gatwick, which it attributed to staff shortages in the control tower. At a press conference, Mr OLeary accused Mr Rolfe of p*** poor performance, and claimed he is incompetent and should be sacked. A woman guest on GB News previously warned Laurence Fox of baiting women for clicks in a newly emerged clip. Doctor Tessa Dunlop appeared on the show in December 2022 to discuss Jeremy Clarksons comments on Meghan Markle in his newspaper column. Dr Dunlop shared the clip on X, formerly Twitter. In the clip she tells Fox: Generally you like to poke with a stick. You go as far as you can, you push the right-wing envelope. You men have disproportionately large platforms. You get little mes on, a doctor incidently but nonetheless, just a little woman, and you bait us for clicks. GB News has suspended Fox following his comments about journalist Ava Evans, in a segment broadcast during Dan Woottons show on Tuesday night (26 September). The former chief executive at the hospital where Lucy Letby murdered seven babies has been questioned on camera for the first time. ITV News approached Tony Chambers outside a house in Bolton, where he refused to address claims he overlooked concerns about the killer nurse. Asked if he ignored the concerns of doctors at the time of Lucy Letbys murders, Mr Chambers said: Im going to save it for the public inquiry. It is the first time the former Countess of Chester Hospital boss has been seen since Letby was found guilty last month of murdering seven babies, making her the worst serial child killer in British history. Footage shows smoke rising from a school bus after a driver was killed in a fiery crash in New York on Wednesday afternoon (27 September). Police said the bus was carrying 22 high school students and three adults eastbound on Lake Road in Webster at around 1:15pm, when a Toyota pulled out into its path. The driver of the car died in the crash, while one child and one adult were taken to hospital. According to local reports, the bus belongs to the Wayne Central School District. No life-threatening injuries were sustained by students or school personnel, a statement from the district read. At least one civilian was injured during the Russian bombardment of a residential area in Kostyantynivka, Ukraine, officials said. Firefighters extinguished fires at the scene on Wednesday 27 September and pulled down the remains of a damaged roof as the houses owner, Olena Kononenko, looked on. Liudmila Ivanchuk, another resident, said the windows shattered during the bombardment and that she was taken to hospital for stitches. Everything was falling on me. The door was stuck. You can see what happened, Ivanchuk, 61, said. Kostyantynivka is located in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine. 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 tradesman faked his own kidnapping to spend New Years Eve with his mistress - only to be caught when his alarmed partner alerted police. Paul Iera, 35, from Woolongong in New South Wales in Australia, narrowly avoided jail after admitting to come up with the fanciful scenario in a desperate attempt to cover his cheating. Woolongong Local Court heard how he left his partner on December 31 to meet his mistress, initially telling her he was meeting a financial guy. But when he sought to stay away a while longer, he came up with the kidnapping hoax. His partner then received a text with a fake ransom message which read: Thank you for sending Paul to me, now payback is a ***** bye bye. We will keep him with us until the morning wen (sic) he gives us his bike we call it square. Having read it, Ieras partner panicked and called the local Lake Illawarra Police District, which set up a task force - named Strike Force Evision - and put in 200 hours police work to investigate the alleged kidnapping. Less than 24 hours later, Iera was discovered by officers in his white van along with his lover. But bizarrely, Iera continued his story and told officers he had been taken by a group of unknown Middle Eastern men and was later let go. However, 12 days later, his story fell apart and he was arrested and charged with making a false accusation with the intent to subject another person to investigation. In court, magistrate Michael Ong slammed his abhorrent behaviour. He added: You chose to send alarming, frightening messages to your partner so you could get some extra time with another partner. You thought that would be a great way to do it. Any reasonable person would have gone to the police and that is exactly what happened. Iera was served a three-year community correction order, and ordered to pay around 8,500 in compensation for the work by police. Dublin-based fintech startup NoFrixion is planning to roll out across Europe after getting vital clearance from the Central Bank. NoFrixion was founded in 2020 by Aaron Clauson and Feargal Brady. The pair were also among the co-founders of telecoms firm Blueface. Blueface was acquired by Comcast, the US giant behind media networks Sky and NBC, for an undisclosed sum in 2020. NoFrixion, which enables instant payment for e-commerce and offline transactions, raised 3.6m last year. The firm announced yesterday that it has been granted electronic money institution (EMI) by the regulator. Mr Brady, the CEO of NoFrixion, said securing the licence is a major step forward for the company and will allow it to operate in other European markets. In the fintech world, lots are like Revolut, which went to Lithuania to get authorisation. We decided that because were an Irish company, we wanted to be regulated in Ireland, he told the Irish Independent. Now that were authorised in Ireland, we can passport that authorisation into all EU countries, which we couldnt do previously. Mr Brady said the focus of the companys operations will be its product aimed at simplifying current accounts for businesses. Traditionally in business banking, there is a current account the businesses use which is separate from the companys core accounting platform, he said. So transactions go into a bank account and how they are identified is generally a manual process where accounts have to go through bank statements and figure out who paid this, what went out. The time figuring this out is immense. Weve built a current account for businesses which is embedded in an accounting platform, so your current account becomes a core part of your business. Mr Brady also said the authorisation from the Central Bank gives more confidence to customers. It gives a sense of security and reliability and makes it easier for larger customers to work with us as some of the companies were taking on now are listed companies with hundreds of millions of revenue, he said. NoFrixion is planning a significant hiring drive in the coming months, with southern Europe being targeted. We already have customers in Portugal, Spain and Belgium and we believe there is significant opportunity for us in the Benelux region and southern Europe, Mr Brady said. Irish telecom group Eirs billionaire owner Xavier Niel is investing 200m in artificial intelligence, split between a future research lab to be located in Paris, cloud supercomputing capabilities powered by Nvidia hardware, and funding for startups. The effort aims to lure top French AI engineers, who left to work for big tech firms abroad, back to their home country where they can build AI products to rival the likes of OpenAI, Mr Niel said in an interview. The race for AI dominance has intensified geopolitical rivalries as countries seek to harness the technology's potential for economic growth and influence. Policymakers have rushed to intervene to ensure that their countries aren't sidelined in the process. "We don't want our cloud and AI to be based on algorithms or machines localised in other countries," Mr Niel said. The danger is being dominated by American or Chinese technology "because they have the means," he said. The telecom tycoon believes there is still room for disruption coming from Europe in the AI space. "When you get rich and big, you're slow, and that's why startups always kill big companies," he said. Half of the investment will be allocated to an independent research lab in Paris, run by a non-profit foundation. Codenamed Sphere, it will bring together top AI researchers and will be supported in part by Mr Niel's telecommunications group Iliad, parent of cloud-computing firm Scaleway, according to people familiar with the plan. "When you go to any AI lab in the world, you'll find that there are always researchers from French schools," such as top universities Polytechnique and ENS, Mr Niel said. "Our challenge is how to make them stay here, or come back if they are abroad." Iliad also invested in supercomputing capacity, including purchasing an Nvidia DGX SuperPOD, equipped with 1016 Tensore Core H100 GPUs high-end graphics cards designed for machine learning and generative AI. Iliad's cloud arm Scaleway will use the capabilities, located in a data centre in Saint-Ouen-l'Aumone, near Paris, for its customers to train and operate large-language models. Iliad says this is the most powerful supercomputer in Europe for AI research and will rank 15th globally. Mr Niel is also using some of the 200m to invest in startups, like Mistral AI and Poolside AI, whose US founders chose to be based in Paris. Still, it's a fraction of the investment US players have attracted. OpenAI raised $10bn (9.5bn) from Microsoft, while Amazon announced on Monday that it will invest as much as $4bn in OpenAI's rival Anthropic. Mr Niel isn't concerned by the funding gap. OpenAI's expense comes from paying for the processors needed to run ChatGPT queries, "not so much the research", he said. Keiths Teeth - A Dental Odyssey: The former Boyzone star gets to the root of our mania for perfect teeth Keith Duffy is an amiable host in this informative documentary Keith Duffy. Photo: RTE Pat Stacey Thu 28 Sep 2023 at 03:30 Trust me, theres nothing like pitching headfirst late at night over the handlebars of a bicycle and smashing three front teeth against the edge of a pavement to cure your fear of a trip to the dentist. Elderly patients taking up hospital beds to be moved to next available nursing home to ease winter trolley crisis Andre, 15 and Sofia Oliveira, 18, from Portugal, who are part of a group of six taking action in a European court against 32 countries for allegedly failing to do their part to avert climate catastrophe. Reuters Ireland and 31 other countries cited in the worlds biggest climate litigation case are adopting a look away attitude, the court hearing was told. The 32 EU member states and neighbouring countries have rejected claims by six young Portuguese activists that their health, future prospects and lives are being put in peril by the countries collective failure to sufficiently reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The case was heard in the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg on Wednesday. It marked six years of preparations by the six and their advocates, the Global Legal Action Network (GLAN) founded and headed by Irish lawyers Gearoid O Cuinn and Gerry Liston. The six siblings and friends are Andre Oliveira (15), Sofia Oliveira (18), Catarina Mota (23), Claudia Agostinho (24), Martim Agostinho (20) and Mariana Agostinho (11) and want the court to order the countries to accelerate climate action. The countries asked the ECHR to dismiss the claims, insisting they accepted the gravity of the climate crisis but arguing the court had no mandate to direct domestic climate policy. They argued that the young people had not exhausted domestic remedies by taking their case through national courts first as is normal procedure. They also said the young people could not claim victim status as their situation in relation to climate change was no different from anyone else in Portugal. Human rights barrister, Alison Macdonald, representing the six, said in her opening address that those arguments were not valid. This amounts to saying that the problem is just too big, its too complicated, its too global. So the court, they say, should look away, she said. More than 80 lawyers for 31 of the countries attended the hearing, including four appointed by the Irish Government. Irish High Court judge, Oisin Quinn, also attended as an official observer. Russia, one of the 32 countries cited, sent no representative. The case was heard by the Grand Chamber of the ECHR which comprises 17 judges and hears only the most important cases considered to have the widest potential implications. The countries shared time to make joint statements, with the main points argued by the UK, Belgium, Portugal, the Netherlands and Turkey. Under ECHR rules, third party interventions are allowed by approved interested parties to provide broader context to the issues at stake. Submissions were allowed from 22 third parties, including the UN special rapporteur on human rights and the environment, Save the Children, Amnesty International and the Climate Action Network. Dunja Mijatovic, the Council of Europes Commissioner for Human Rights, urged the judges to rule in favour of the six, arguing that young people would carry the burden of the climate crisis but had little opportunity to influence action on it. Opportunities to participate in political decision-making on environmental matters are rare for them, and many of them are not yet able to vote, she said. The resulting sentiment of frustration and powerlessness leads many to embrace public protest and direct action. However, I have also seen how their legitimate concerns and demands are increasingly being repressed, criminalised, and stigmatised in many places around Europe. The court is expected to deliver a ruling early next year. Child called man a paedophile and a rapist during row, court hears An enraged dog owner grabbed a 12-year-old boy by the throat and began to choke him, following a clash between their dogs while walking in a south Dublin park. The boy said he thought he was going to die as the man throttled him after the confrontation between their dogs. Courts Brothers to stay in jail after appeal of 'cynical and calculated' rape of girl (14) they got comatose drunk fails Police respond to two incidents on Wednesday night Police at the scene of a shooting incident in the Upper Movilla Street area of Newtownards on September 27th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Police at the scene of a shooting incident in the Divismore Crescent area of west Belfast on September 27th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Police were at the scene of separate shootings in West Belfast and Newtownards on Wednesday evening. The first shooting incident was in the Divismore Crescent area of west Belfast. Shortly after 9pm, it was reported that a man in his 20s had been shot three times in the legs. He has been taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries A cordon was in place and an investigation is underway. PSNI Neighbourhood Inspector Roisin Brown said: "Officers attended the scene along with our colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service. "The victim, aged in his twenties, was taken to hospital for treatment. "Although not believed to be life threatening, the injuries sustained in this barbaric act will have significant impact on the victim and he will undoubtedly live with the trauma of what has happened to him. "Everyone has the right to live their life free from the threat of violence and this brutal attack by people who violate the human rights of others must be universally condemned. "We live in a democratic society where there is no justification for this. Those responsible brutalise their own communities and control others through intimidation and violence. Meanwhile, police were also at the scene of separate shooting incident at Upper Movilla Street, Newtownards. Shortly after 9.30pm it was reported that a man in his 30s had been shot in one leg. He has been taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries. PSNI Detective Sergeant Westbury said the victim was told by two men to lie down on his front, with his face to the ground, before being shot once through his right calf. "Officers attended the scene, together with colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, and he was subsequently taken to hospital for treatment for his injuries, he added. Its believed that the perpetrators were wearing dark coloured clothing and balaclavas. Our investigation is at an early stage, and we are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time, and may have any information which could assist us, to get in touch. "The injuries inflicted on the victim are a stark violation of his basic human rights. There is no justification for this type of violence. Attacks like these not only place the victim at risk, but also the local community." The pressure group Stop Attacks has condemned the brutal act. Another human rights abuse carried out last night in Ards, it posted on social media. "Another brutal act that will have life-changing consequences for the victim. "These actions don't protect communities they are rooted in the power and control criminal gangs want over neighbourhoods. "This must end. Anyone with any information on either shooting which could assist with police enquiries is asked to contact officers on 101. Frontline gardai will withdraw all services in November in action termed Drew Flu as part of the worsening roster row. Gardai will also refuse to do voluntary overtime on several dates in October including key days such as Budget Day and Halloween. The drastic measures mean approximate 11,000 members of the Garda Representative Association (GRA) will effectively refuse to acknowledge working hours that are set to be introduced on November 6. The association has said it was forced into the move and has called on Justice Minister Helen McEntee to bring some common sense to the dispute. The action was passed by delegates at a special conference in Kilkenny yesterday afternoon. The motion passed means that gardai will not work voluntary overtime on October 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, which includes Budget Day and Halloween. Both of these days require significant garda resources, largely reliant on overtime, to ensure there are sufficient numbers to police Dublin. It is understood that several public order units from the Eastern Region are to be drafted into the city on Budget Day on overtime, which now looks in doubt. Gardai have also voted to withdraw services on November 10 if the situation is not resolved. This is the fifth day of the new roster, which under current working hours would be a rest day. However, under the new roster gardai would work six consecutive days of 10 hours followed by four days off. It means gardai will effectively refuse to acknowledge the pre-pandemic roster that Mr Harris intends to revert to. GRA general secretary Ronan Slevin said: We the officer board are not surprised by the decision of our delegates. Two weeks ago 99pc of our members voted no confidence in the Garda Commissioner. What the delegates decided today was to just reaffirm that position. We have tried to get the attention of the Commissioner and impress on him the many concerns affecting his own work force. However, what we have been met with is blind inaction and a dogged single-minded approach to the rosters situation which has strengthened our resolve and reiterates our lack of confidence in the Commissioners leadership. GRA president Brendan OConnor said that the Justice Minister Ms McEntee should bring some common sense to the situation. He said she should listen to the men and women policing the streets of Ireland, who are dealing with horrendous incidents from Donegal to Wexford. Gardai are not asking for special treatment, he said, adding that their membership are simply asking to be treated with respect and be listened to. He also said they believed they were very close to a solution over the weekend but accused garda management of reneging on an agreement in principle. We dont want to be here today we want to get on with the job at hand of policing this country, he said. Mr Slevin added that the Garda Commissioner must be the only person who doesnt believe there is a morale issue within the organisation. Until this happens, I dont know where were going towards solving this matter, he said. He also said that the GRA are being forced into this position by what he described as the Commissioners unwillingness to defer the deadline date. This follows a meeting with Mr Harris this week which the GRA described as a complete waste of time and leading to irreparable relations. The GRA have been at loggerheads with Mr Harris over his plans to revert to a pre-pandemic roster. The association has said it cannot enter into negotiations offered by the Commissioner unless the deadline is deferred, which he has refused to do. Mr Slevin this week said the Commissioner has invited conflict and that relations between the garda chief and the association were irreparable. The four garda associations, representing rank-and-file members. supervisors and management, have held various meetings with Mr Harris in recent days over the roster dispute. The four garda associations have been invited to meet with the Garda Commissioner at headquarters today. In a statement, An Garda Siochana said that as part of long-standing efforts by all parties to get collective agreement on a new roster, the garda management side and the four garda associations will meet today. This is the second time that the Garda Commissioner will have met the garda associations this week. The Commissioner also met the garda associations twice last week, a Garda spokesperson said. At the meeting on Tuesday, the Commissioner asked all four associations to consider possible next steps to enable talks on a collective agreement on a new roster to be advanced and to make submissions on this at Thursdays meeting for consideration. No final decision has been made on this matter in advance of Thursdays meeting. Throughout three years of talks between garda management and the garda associations on a new roster, the Commissioner has repeatedly stated that he is willing to compromise to reach agreement. THE Garda Commissioner has urged frontline gardai to enter into negotiations on a new roster but has refused to defer the November 6 deadline when the force reverts to pre-pandemic working hours. The Garda Representative Association (GRA) have said they are willing to enter into talks but only once this deadline is removed. This week delegates voted to refuse to work overtime on the five Tuesdays in October, and to withdraw services on November 10. Speaking to reporters after meeting with the Policing Authority on Thursday, Commissioner Drew Harris said that gardai would be expected to report for duty on these days. He said he is satisfied they have adequate resources to police any protests on Budget Day and that members who are detailed to work the event will be notified in advance of their requirement to work. Asked if gardai who withdraw their services may be disciplined, the Garda Commissioner said they are not at this position yet and that he wouldnt want to speculate. Garda Commissioner Drew Harris is facing mutiny over rostering issues Referring to the GRAs central executive committee, he said that certain individuals have said that they will withdraw services and refuse to do overtime but added that they will have to see what happens on the day. The Garda Commissioner also said he completely and entirely refutes a suggestion that he has shown contempt for rank-and-file gardai, adding that he has done the exact opposite in his actions over the last five years. During the meeting with the Authority, he said he had made considerable concessions the previous week when he invited the four garda associations to enter negotiations through internal mechanisms or the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). He also urged the GRA to enter into talks but said that he could not wait beyond November 6 to revert to the pre-pandemic working hours under the Westmanstown Roster. Mr Harris said he has to choose between the current roster, which he said was both more expensive and gave poorer service delivery, and the only agreed roster to ensure greater policing visibility. The Garda Commissioner also said that the current shift patterns of four days of 12-hour shifts followed by four days off meant "overtime is very difficult to control" and is very expensive. He said that while they focus on service delivery, they can't ignore the costs which "rack up into the tens and tens of millions". Mr Harris also acknowledged a report which outlined the disadvantages in the Westmanstown roster and said they "need to get back into negotiations" while appealing for the GRA to do so. On Wednesday the GRA voted to refuse to work overtime on the five Tuesdays in October, which include Budget Day and Halloween, over the roster dispute. They also plan to withdraw services on November 10 if the issue isnt resolved by then, which is being referred to as Drew Flu by rank-and-file gardai. Ronan Slevin, general secretary of the GRA. GRA General Secretary Ronan Slevin said: Over the past two weeks we had hoped that the Commissioner would take stock of the feelings on the ground with frontline gardai struggling with stress and low morale caused by uncertain working conditions and a poor working environment. We have tried to get the attention of the Commissioner and impress on him the many concerns affecting his own work force. However, what we have been met with is blind inaction and a dogged single-minded approach to the Rosters situation which has strengthened our resolve and reiterates our lack of confidence in the Commissioners leadership. GRA President Brendan O'Connor said that the Justice Minister Helen McEntee should "bring some common sense" to the situation. Just 14pc of children were vaccinated against flu last year. Photo: Getty Images The flu vaccine will be taken into schools for the first time this year in a bid to get more young children, who are major spreaders, vaccinated. Chief clinical officer Dr Colm Henry said the school shots will be targeted at children in senior infants and in special educational needs classes. He said that, last year, just 14pc of children were vaccinated against flu and 1,400 were hospitalised with the virus. Dr Henry was appearing with health officials before the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health, which was told of a potential overspend of 1.5bn at the end of the year, with the fallout from Covid among the factors pushing up spending. It will need another 1bn in the Budget to maintain existing services without including new developments. HSE chief executive Bernard Gloster said 80,000 people have come on hospital waiting lists who were not anticipated. Department of Health secretary general Robert Watt said the pandemic left patients missing out on 700,000 medical appointments and this had left a legacy of illness. A site for a new elective-only hospital to be built in Dublin is due to come before the Cabinet in the coming weeks. Mr Gloster told the committee he was going ahead with plans for a seven-day roster for staff, including himself. We have commenced engagement with staff representative organisations on an approach to that, he added. The HSE is also pressing ahead with the Slaintecare plan for regional authorities bringing more decision-making locally. He said: The Government has now moved to recruit six regional executive officers to lead the implementation of health regions. These senior post holders will report directly to me. Around 622 hospital consultants have signed up to a new contract which involves weekend and evening rosters, with the majority of these already employed and switching over for higher pay. The health officials said they were happy it was going in the right direction. Fine Gael TD Bernard Durkan described a recent disturbing experience in an emergency department where he witnessed patients being intimidated by others who were drunk or were on drugs. The abuse of patients and staff had been shocking, he said. Mr Gloster said he shared Mr Durkans abhorrence but said emergency departments must deal with what is in front of them, regardless of behaviour. Mr Watt, of the Department of Health, noted Irelands rapidly growing population, and one which is ageing as never before. He spoke of an urgent need to increase the domestic supply of nurses and midwives to meet expected demand. We will simply have to educate and train far more healthcare professionals ourselves, he said. This would be the second time the Department of Social Protection is examining proposals for such a payment, having previously looked at it in 2011. (Brian Lawless/PA) The Government is examining the possibility of a second tier of Child Benefit, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said. This would be the second time the Department of Social Protection is examining proposals for such a payment, having previously looked at it in 2011. A second rate of child benefit for the poorest households would cost 700 million a year, but would lift 40,000 children out of poverty, according to research from the Economic Social Research Institute (ESRI), published earlier this month. The Taoiseach has now asked Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys to look into such a proposal but said it would not be for Budget 2024. I've asked Mr Humphries to examine the ESRI proposal to introduce a means tested second tier of child benefit, he told the Seanad on Thursday morning. Such a change would not be possible to introduce in 2024. So further work will have to be undertaken to ensure no unintended consequences occur as identified by ESRI itself, but the proposal has real merit, and I look forward to understanding more about how it might be implemented. The Department of Social Protection examined the feasibility of such a payment previously in 2011 but it was never put in place. Childrens Minister Roderic OGorman previously said he would favour increases to the Working Family Payment and Increases for Qualified Child in the Budget, as these have proven to tackle poverty. Minister Humphreys has already indicated she wants to see the benefit expanded to young adults who are over 18 but are still in school. Researchers from the ESRI said a more targeted tier of the 140 payment would help more than 100,000 households in need of assistance. The payment has also been recommended by the Commission on Taxation and Welfare, and the National and Economic Social Council. It would also bring Ireland into line with other European countries. Such a payment would provide extra child benefit based exclusively on income and family status, regardless of whether parents are working or receive other social welfare payments. Our research provides evidence on the impact of different measures the Government might consider in trying to achieve their stated ambition of ending child poverty, said Dr Barra Roantree, assistant professor of economics at Trinity College Dublin and one of the authors of the report. Health chiefs are being grilled by TDs and senators on the Oireachtas Health Committee this afternoon. Keep up to date with all the latest developments from the Irish Independent here Childrens Health Ireland (CHI) chief executive Eilish Hardiman has said the use of unapproved non-medical grade devices in spinal surgeries was an "unprecedented occurrence" and is "truly shocking". Speaking at the Oireachtas Health Committee this afternoon the over Temple Street spinal surgery scandal she said it is "unheard of" and "simply not done" for such a device to be implanted. In an opening statement to the committee, Ms Hardiman said she wished to reiterate an apology to families, saying children did not receive the care they were "entitled to" and "deserved". She called the findings of the commissioned reviews "distressing". "I know that children and families with spine bifida and others on the spinal surgery waiting list have been distressed by the findings of the reviews, and I want to apologise to them that this has added further to their worries and concerns and has caused upset." She said a "shocking litany of events" had occurred and she wished to apologise to impacted families for "poor communication on our part across the last week." "I am aware that more could have been done." Independent Senator Tom Clonan told CHI representatives that his own son received spinal surgery at Temple Street Hospital at the age of 18. "He should have had that surgery when he was maybe 12 but he didn't because it's Ireland and he was on an extremely long waiting list and his curvature was so pronounced that it compressed his organs and compressed his lung function so that he had something like 20pc lung function, Deputy Clonan told the committee. He said that "as the layperson, I know that's wrong. "That shouldn't happen. It's foreseeable, it's preventable, it's reportable." He said that before the surgery, he required a cardiac review during which the cardiologist discovered that his heart was "in a part of his chest cavity that it shouldn't be". "It was a teaching point, and she called her team over to have a look at it," he said, adding that his son "vomited into the sink" when he "saw it on the screen. "He said, and I quote: 'It's all right for you. It's not your heart'. The anaesthetist told us that he was an anaesthetic risk and that he might be inoperable - as is the case for some of the other parents here." He said the surgical teams were brilliant, adding: "I was in the hospital at Temple Street when you were CEO, I slept in my car on the street. Now, eventually I did get a room after a number of days." Mr Clonan said his son was "frightened" and wore his mother's bracelet but added that he himself was "ushered out" and "left in the stairwell" holding that bracelet as the surgical process for his son got underway. He said: "The springs were a symptom only of a completely dysfunctional system." Ms Hardiman told the Committee she has "stepped back" from her role in the Serious Incident investigation commissioned by CHI since the issue of the letter alleging a meeting that took place in February 2020 was raised. She said there is a "fully external team" in place and her role ordinarily would be to act as a liaison for the terms of reference and informed TD Neasa Hourigan that the deputy chief executive has now assumed that position in the investigation. "I was not aware of this letter. That happened later on in August. (On) the 21st of August, I became of aware of this and since then I have stepped back, that means as CEO I am not involved in the terms of reference or the setting up or the elements involved in it (the Serious Incident investigation) that is commissioned by Children's Health Ireland and with a fully external team that has come from the HSE." Social Democrats TD Roisin Shortall asked Ms Hardiman five times whether or not she had any communication with a consultant regarding the use of non-approved medical devices, to which she answered that she has no recollection. Deputy Shorthall raised the subject of a meeting that was alleged to have taken place in February 2020 that was referenced in a letter sent by two consultants. Ms Hardiman said she was not aware of it until August of this year and has "no evidence" of receiving the letter. Ms Shortall also questioned why the reviews were not published as soon as possible. Ms Hardiman emphasised that CHI were not "resisting" their publication. "There were 50 recommendations in the external review. They were, you know, reading between the lines, they were pretty damning in terms of governance and management." Green Party TD Neasa Hourigan said she believes the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) "have made themselves incredibly peripheral to the discussion" relating to issues at Temple Street. "I don't accept that they are peripheral actually, they're the regulator here. So, I think we have more work to do with the HPRA." She addressed impacted families on how they have been communicated with, telling them: "I believe the State has let you down." "I have to say, I feel really sorry for those families. That's really awful. I have a child who has special needs and I really feel bad for those families and I'm very sorry to hear that. I think the State has let you down." Sinn Fein TD David Cullinane asked the CHI chief executive if she met with clinicians to discuss the risks related to the use of metal rods in 2020. Ms Hardiman said she cant answer in relation to unauthorised non-medical grade devices. Mr Cullinane said it was a "dark day for CHI and for children's healthcare services," adding there is "a lot of hurt and trauma which children and families are going through." He said it was "extraordinary" that it is still not clear how the devices were procured. Ms Hardiman said it is important to wait for the outcome of an ongoing HR process and review before particular questions could be answered. On the procurement and use of an unauthorised device, CHI Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Allan Goldman said whatever occurred is "completely unacceptable." "The questions you're asking are exactly the questions we're asking ourselves and the only way - and I know it sounds like we're deflecting - but the only way we are going to get to the bottom of this is by a very good, rigorous, independent investigation to look at everything from point A to point B and then once we know that, that's when we can explain what happened and how to fix it because we are as perplexed as you as to how that happened," Dr Goldman said. Senator Martin Conway asked CHI representatives whether the unauthorised devices came from an approved supplier. Ms Hardiman said they had not. "How in the name of God does that get into your system?" he asked. Mr Conway asked Ms Hardiman if she can "categorically assure people" that such issues have not occurred before. "Those quality control mechanisms were in place before this happened, and yet this happened. How can you definitively say that other issues of a similar nature haven't happened?" He said "surely be to God" there is a form of cross-referencing and tagging of medical devices so that they can be traced. Ms Hardiman said such a system does exist, but added: "These devices, if they are of non-medical grade, would not have these tags with them". Mr Conway called the events "astounding" and said the issue was not picked up by any internal processes in CHI. Dr Goldman told TD Michael McNamara that "huge amounts of learning" came from the review conducted by Boston Medical. "This really was an extensive process and one that we've taken enormously seriously," he said. Mr McNamara questioned whether it was an "extraordinary omission" that issues relating to infrastructure were not included in the assessment. Fianna Fail TD John Lahart asked whether surgeons ever sought advice on the use of "alternative devices or alternative technology or alternative techniques." Ms Hardiman said it was not unusual for discussions on research to take place, but added she has "never approved" and has "no recollection of being asked about non-medical grade, unapproved, unauthorised devices." She said she does not have the "remit or authority" to make such approvals in her position as chief executive. Mr Lahart also asked if there is an electronic system to monitor any issues that may have gone wrong with implants, to which Ms Hardiman said they are still using stickers in paper files. Fine Gael TD Bernard Durkan said told the committee public confidence in the system has been "shaken" as a result of what occurred at Temple Street. "It's nobody's fault, but if the system is wrong, it needs to be rectified, he said. Ms Hardiman said patient safety and quality care is "central" to CHI, adding that the implantation of non-medical grade device "cannot be approved" as it is not something that should happen. The "custody" of the springs throughout the organised is currently the subject of an inquiry, she said. In closing the meeting of the Committee, chairperson Sean Crowe said he was "conscious" that a lot of families at home were likely wondering whether there was a plan in place and asked representatives for a sense of the waiting times they have and are facing. He asked CHI representatives for a written response in relation to those questions and in relation to the plan that may be in place for children who would not be able to go to Crumlin Hospital or abroad for further treatment if required. Childrens Health Ireland (CHI) chief executive Eilish Hardiman has said she has no record of receiving a letter referred to the Dail that was purported to have been sent to her by a Temple Street surgeon, relating to experimental procedures on young patients. The procedures are believed to relate to the three spinal surgery operations involving the use of unlicensed springs on three children between 2020 and 2022. A spokeswoman for the childrens hospital group said yesterday that Ms Hardiman has no record of receiving the letter that is purported to have been sent to the chief executive in relation to the potential use of non-medical grade devices in childrens surgery. She said: The letter, and its origin, is the subject of an independent investigation. To be clear, no authority was granted and no authority would ever be granted for the implantation of a non-CE marked non-medical grade device in a patient. Executives and doctors from CHI, which oversees childrens hospitals in Dublin, will be before the Oireachtas Health Committee this afternoon, to answer questions on how 19 children with spina bifida suffered serious post-operative complications, one of whom died. Earlier yesterday, the mystery letter supplied to the Taoiseach by the Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald emerged in the Dail. It purported to show that experimental procedures were discussed at Temple Street Childrens Hospital in 2020. Mr Varadkar said: I read the letter that you sent me this morning. It does put a new complexion on this. I dont know if its genuine. I dont know if it was ever actually sent. I dont know if it was received. I dont know if it was acknowledged. And I dont think you know those things either. But it does indicate that there was a level of knowledge at management level about what was happening in an MDT [multi-disciplinary team] involving nurses, doctors, therapists and consultants and also claims, correctly or incorrectly, that the families and parents involved consented to what were essentially experimental procedures. Ms McDonald said the letter apparently written by clinicians that came into her possession in the last year seems to confirm that such things were happening as far back as 2020. It suggested that CHI head Eilish Hardiman was involved in meetings and was even asked by surgeons for guidance on the use of these techniques. Speaking under Dail privilege, she added: This raises very serious questions for Childrens Health Ireland and these questions require urgent answers. What guidance or advice, if any, was given to surgeons and clinicians by the head of CHI? Does Minister Donnelly yet have answers to these questions?" An external review will be headed by a Liverpool consultant who is due in Dublin on Monday. Ms McDonald asked for guarantees that CHI will not be involved in drafting the terms. The Taoiseach responded: They wont just be written by an agency or Childrens Health Ireland. The review will be independent, but we do need to bear in mind that any review will only be achievable with the cooperation of the hospitals concerned. And I would expect their full cooperation. Health Minister Stephen Donnelly has said that the terms of reference are broad and the head of the inquiry will meet with parents and advocacy groups to hear what they have to say. CHI has previously said doctors, other than the surgeon who carried out the operations, were aware of the use of the springs. But the fact they had no safety mark and were not passed by the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) or ethics bodies only came to light in late June or early July. The Embassy claimed it receives letters of support and sympathy from Irish people since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. The Embassy of Russia in Ireland has tonight accused the Irish Government of escalating the war in Ukraine while also claiming Irish people are sending them letters of support and sympathy. The letter, published to mark Fridays 50th anniversary of bilateral relations between Ireland and what was the Soviet Union, now Russia, said that Through the efforts of the Irish authorities, the rich and positive bilateral heritage has been dealt a blow - Russian-Irish cooperation in all, even purely humanitarian, areas is now frozen. The official reason is the conflict in Ukraine which the Irish leadership helped the US Administration and the EU political elite to escalate, the letter states. The Russian Embassy thanked the many ordinary Irish citizens who continue to send us letters of support and said Irish people did not want to see sanctions placed on Russia by the EU following its invasion of Ukraine. However, results of a major European survey released earlier this year show that more than three-quarters of Irish people support the EUs response to Russias invasion of Ukraine. The Eurobarometer poll showed Ireland had the second highest level of support for sanctions on Russia among the 27 EU member states behind only Portugal. The statement from the Russian Embassy recalled growing trade and investment, cultural, scientific and educational exchanges between Ireland and Russia following former Taoiseach Bertie Aherns state visit to Moscow in 1999. Regrettably, Russian-Irish relations have reached its half-century mark in a disappointing state, and by no fault of ours, it read. In May 2022, Russian state television released a video simulating the results of Russia launching a nuclear attack on Europe, claiming Ireland and the UK would be decimated by such an attack. In April this year, the Russian Embassy warned Ireland of ensuing consequences after Tanaiste Micheal Martin described Irishman Finbar Cafferkey, who died fighting as a military volunteer in Ukraine, as a young man of clear principles. The Russian Embassy said Ireland supports the Kiev regime, which is neo-Nazi in nature, illegal in the way of coming to power and corrupt in its essence. Claims made by Russia that the Ukrainian government is neo-Nazi have been easily debunked and Ukraine adopted a democratic constitution in 1996. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who is Jewish, won 73pc of the vote when he was elected in 2019. Ireland quickly became one of the favourite tourist destinations for Russian people, the statement from the Russian Embassy continued. Failte Ireland statistics do not reflect a large amount of tourism from Russia, nor do statistics on outward tourism from Russia from travel data company ForwardKeys rank Ireland among popular destinations. Russia has always welcomed and, as a matter of fact, continues to gladly welcome Irish guests today, the statement read. In November 2022, it was revealed more than 50 Irish politicians were on a list of individuals banned from visiting Russia by the Kremlin. On repairing relations between Russia and Ireland, it said restoring deliberately broken ties will require considerable efforts, which will have to begin with the sobering up of the European elites. They will have to demonstrate genuine, and not declarative, independence, recognize the harmfulness of the course towards confrontation they have chosen, show readiness to correct mistakes. There should be no doubt that in this case Russia will be ready to go its part of the way towards normalising relations, the statement read. It concluded: With all that in mind we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Russian-Irish diplomatic relations as a beacon of hope for their better future in the interests of the Russian and Irish peoples. I do believe in ghosts. I believe that sometimes you will see somebody or somebody will see somebody for which I know no other explanation Former newsreader Anne Doyle has revealed how her house was once haunted as she spoke about her love of ghost stories. It comes as the RTE broadcaster releases her book Tales of the Otherworld, a frightful collection of Irish ghost stories written by the journalist who is described as being reincarnated as the mistress of macabre. Speaking to Brendan Courtney on the Nine OClock Show on RTE Radio One, Ms Doyle said her fascination with the otherworld would have been really quite common when she was a child. The other thing about it (is) I never really lost that interest actually but I suppose it has been not rekindled kindled more vigorously by the fact that the otherworld is getting horribly near so Im just keeping an eye on it, you know? On how she came to gather an anthology of ghost stories, she said: "It was serendipity really. Ive always read ghost stories and Ive always been interested in ghostly tales. That sort of perverse thing I think a lot of us have frightening ourselves. My big terror is vampires and I keep away from that genre insofar as possible. "I wouldnt look at a Dracula film for love nor money. I saw The Brides of Dracula when I was about nine and it was the second film I had ever seen. The first one was A Quiet Man I should have stuck with John Wayne! "I was really too young to see it particularly because I had never been to the cinema, we were quite a long way away from the cinema so it was a huge deal to me, she said. "The Brides of Dracula damn nearly did it for me. It frightened the living daylights out of me. "It really gave me a terrible fright. Years later, I never understood why it in particular. I have soldiered through The Exorcist and The Omen. I wouldnt be in a rush back to see them but I was okay with them mind you I wasnt nine or ten either but I think it was because for the first time I realised that the power of the almighty Mammy was not unconquerable. "The vampire could get you. The vampire could get the almighty Mammy whereupon the almighty Mammy became a vampire and she could get you. I dont think I thought it through as clinically as that but that was where the real fear came from. In the book, the former newsreader reveals the story of her own haunting, when an old woman lurked in the basement for around three months. "Funnily enough, it didnt frighten me as much as I would have thought, she said. "I couldnt quite believe it. I probably saw her five or six times but she completely ignored me. Obviously, you were a stranger and she wasnt interested so she moved back and forward. She seemed busy, very busy and anxious. Quite a small tiny, really grey hair, just moving around. "After a while, she left. She was gone Id say in three months. She said she was relieved she was not the only one who saw this spirit, adding: I do believe in ghosts. I believe that sometimes you will see somebody or somebody will see somebody for which I know no other explanation. "There may be very learned people who have robust scientific explanations for this good luck to them. I havent. Im not personally able to find any other way to understand seeing somebody who isnt there. She said the most charitable explanation when you are sane and sober is that you have seen something for which there doesnt appear to be a rational explanation. The pair also discussed the spooky phenomenon of the fetch or the doppelganger a feature of one of the stories in the anthology. "If you met your doppelganger down our way anyway it was a sign of death and they had usually come for you. Hence, the fetch. Theyve come to fetch you. She also revealed to host Brendan Courtney that she probably quite rightly once got into trouble during her time in the newsroom for lifting her eyebrow. I didnt do it intentionally. Its a habit, she said, adding that a woman wrote a very fair and thoughtful letter to RTE. "She said that she would really like to draw attention to the fact that I was editorialising my eyebrow and she had noticed. She had noticed that sometimes when I was dealing with something that quite clearly didn't meet my particular approval, I was inclined to lift the aul eyebrow. "I had to try and train myself not to do it, so eventually, I said ah, there is one handy way to do this; grow the fringe longer. A new single from U2 has received its very first radio play on RTE 2fm this afternoon. DJ Dave Fanning did not want to break a habit of a lifetime and continued his long-running tradition of giving the Irish bands songs their debut on the radio. "Why break the habit of a lifetime, lets do it again! he said. He spoke to Tracy Clifford on RTE 2fm from Las Vegas at 4.15am to introduce the song to the Irish airwaves. "It is actually an homage to the place itself in other words, to Las Vegas because it used to be called Atomic City. He described the song as "perfect for three and a half minutes of U2. "Atomic City which is the title of the song is actually a nickname for Las Vegas around the time when nuclear culture was sweeping the nation. The city used to promote itself as this centre of atomic tourism and it was very near the Nevada test site. That was a long time ago. He said the chorus of the song is a complete nod to Call Me by Blondie. "They are saying its an homage to as they call it, the magnetic spirits in Las Vegas but also the 70s, postpunk and Blondie, he said, adding the band have always nodded back. The upcoming U2 gigs at the Sphere is a venue that certainly stands out" and is much cooler than many buildings in Vegas and a major tourist attraction at the moment. "Theyve always pushed the boundaries of live performance. Very groundbreaking stage shows. He said the gigs have been immersive and have embraced the latest in technology and innovation. The question people are going to be asking is: Is there going to be an album? To be honest, I dont know, I have no idea. The latest single from the band Atomic City is set to be released on Friday, but was played first by DJ Dave Fanning on RTE 2fm at 12pm. Fanning revealed the single would be played on RTE 2fm on X, formerly known as Twitter, earlier today, sharing an image of the band with the caption: New U2 track ATOMIC CITY first ever play today 12pm on RTE 2fm. It comes as the band are set to launch a fan portal in Las Vegas that spans two floors of The Venetian Resort in Paradise, Nevada and comprises more than 12,000 square feet of interactive exhibit space ahead of a series of gigs. It will include photography, videos, exclusive merchandise and a Zoo TV cinema that will play films curated by The Edge and unreleased concert footage in an intimate theatre. It is described as a love letter to fans that will allow them to congregate, celebrate, indulge in a little retail therapy, view exclusive U2 content, and immerse themselves in the band's musical and creative history. The experience gets underway before the band plays a series of shows live at Sphere next month. U2:UV Achtung Baby Live at Sphere is a first-of-its-kind live music experience, the bands website says. Their return to the stage was teased during a Super Bowl commercial in February. Their Vegas residency will be their first run of live concerts in four years, with opening night taking place on Friday night. Talking to Irish people gives me another world to relax into, a world where I can forget for a while about what is happening at home Que? I admit it, Ive always wanted an excuse to use that upside-down question mark. But thats as far as my Spanish goes, and as I realised last week, the freedom to speak a language other than your own makes a huge difference to a refugee, and not only for the reasons you might expect. My mum and my sister were staying with a friend in Spain for a few days, so for the price of a cheap flight I could catch up with at least some of my family. But for the first time in ages, I found myself guessing what the locals were talking about, staring at them uncomfortably and responding with possibly irrelevant English words. I love learning languages, and this has helped me get by in various places. I did try to add Spanish to the list as a teenager, and my parents paid for a few lessons, but my aspirations took a nosedive when the teacher turned out to be allergic to our cat and didnt come back. And so I stood in McDonalds last week, feeling stupid as I tried to explain that they had given me the wrong kind of potatoes. A mundane experience, if uncomfortable. But it reminded me of the encounters I have had with fellow Ukrainian refugees over the last 19 months, where theyve been unable to speak the local language and Ive been there to help them. It started in Warsaw in the first few days of the war. I volunteered at the central train station, where I helped scared, disorientated Ukrainians, many of whom had never left their homeland, to make sense of train schedules and find their way towards emergency support. In Ireland, Ive found myself on hand to translate at various times, such as a Ukrainian woman who was trying to communicate with a GPs registrar. Such people, who have dropped everything to go to a place of safety where they know no one and dont speak the language, have far greater problems than failed McDonalds orders. Being able to speak English makes everything easier: finding a job, finding a place to rent, even just understanding what is going on. But my Spanish experience made me conscious of one of the hidden benefits of speaking the local language: you can communicate with people who dont share your problems. Of course, talking to doctors, cab drivers and customer assistants makes life easier. But I realised that Ireland gives me something else: the emotional release of talking to people who arent in the same mental state as I am, who arent processing the same trauma. In the first months of the war, I went to several meetings for displaced Ukrainians in Ireland. Most of them were lovely people, and sometimes it is good to speak your native language. But to be honest, it was often more draining than anything. When I speak to other Ukrainians, no matter what we are talking about, I know that we all spent the previous night tracking which Russian missiles were targeting which Ukrainian cities, and we all sat there drinking our morning coffee while reading about how many of our fellow citizens had been killed in the last 24 hours. Its a bonding experience, yes, but not in the least bit comforting. And it affects every one of my compatriots. And so, speaking to Irish people or even other foreigners living in Dublin is a blessing and a relief. Being able to have a conversation about anything from work gossip to pop culture to dog walks to Irish literature, it gives me another world to relax into, a world where I can forget for a while about what is happening at home. Words cant describe how much that means to me. But all those words have saved me from going insane. Minister Helen McEntee with the Belgium Secretary of State for Asylum and Migration Nicole de Moor at an EU home affairs Ministers meeting today. Photo: Thierry Monasse/Getty Images. Ukrainian refugees living in Ireland are set to have their temporary protection in the country extended until March 2025 after EU ministers agreed upon the measure in a meeting this evening. Minister for Justice Helen McEntee TD represented Ireland at a meeting of Home Affairs Ministers held in Brussels this Thursday to discuss migration within the European Commission. A proposal for a one-year extension of the application of the Temporary Protection Directive in light of the war in Ukraine was discussed by EU ministers. The Temporary Protection Directive is an EU law to deal with a mass influx of people in need of international protection. It was activated in Ireland for the first time in March 2022 in response to the war in Ukraine and had been extended to 2024. Speaking at the meeting Minister McEntee described the agreed proposal to extend the Directive until 2025 as an important demonstration of continued solidarity and support for Ukraine. Innocent civilians, including children, and vulnerable persons continue to be displaced from their homes as a direct result of ongoing Russian aggression, Minister McEntee said. As of June, the Central Statistics Office (CSO) reported that there were in excess of 84,000 Ukrainian refugees living in Ireland, with the figure now believed to be 93,000. Minister McEntee stressed that a substantial whole-of-government humanitarian response has been put in place in Ireland for Ukrainians who have sought temporary protection. Upwards of 70,000 Ukrainian refugees are now housed in state provided accommodation. This week, it was agreed that an additional 1 billion be diverted to help house Ukrainian refugees in Ireland, with the figure agreed by Government set to help the Department of Integration cover the costs of providing housing for those seeking protection. Speaking following the announcement of 1 billion extra this week, Minister for Public Expenditure Pascal Donohoe said the Government had already set aside the funds in Budget 2023. This funding will continue to support the states humanitarian response to the Ukraine crisis. The state has had to work extremely hard to manage the significant influx of people from Ukraine since the onset of Russias invasion of Ukraine, he added. Ferry links between Ireland and France continue to grow, for passengers and their pets Brittany Ferries will sail from Cork to Roscoff in winter for the first time, further boosting ferry access between Ireland and France. Its Armorique cruise-ferry will sail to Brittany every weekend during November and December 2023, the company said. It will depart Ringaskiddy in Cork on Saturday afternoons, returning from France on Fridays. Following a six-week pause for a winter refit, Armorique will return to re-open the Cork/Roscoff route on February 9. For the first time in our 50-year history, well keep the Cork to Roscoff link running this winter with sailings in November and December 2023, and in February and March 2024, said Brittanys general manager for Ireland, Hugh Bruton. From March 22, the 650-cabin Pont-Aven will rejoin Armorique on the route, with two weekly departures throughout summer and autumn. Brittany also sails year-round from Rosslare to Cherbourg, and recently announced that its direct sailings between Ireland and Spain would be served by three ships next year. The expanded schedule is now on sale, with bookings available to November 2024. Fares to France start from 179 each-way for a car plus two people with reclining seats, or 210 with a cabin. Henry the Cockapoo with owner Victoria Carswell in the Stena Line Pet Lounge The news follows a year of ferry capacity growth between Ireland and France, as travel bounces back post-pandemic. Stena Vision was a new addition this summer - a 1,300-passenger ship sailing between Rosslare and Cherbourg with a spa and 485 passenger cabins. Stenas France sailings can be booked with a 100 deposit. The number of pets is growing as well as passengers Stena says almost 70,000 pets have taken a ferry trip this year, with pet-friendly cabins 84pc booked on its Rosslare to Cherbourg services this summer. It opened a new pet lounge (15 per pet) on its Stena Superfast service between Northern Ireland and Scotland for 2023. Irish Ferries' Oscar Wilde is welcomed to Rosslare Irish Ferries, meanwhile, re-launched its Oscar Wilde ferry on the Rosslare to Pembroke route. The ship has a capacity of 2,080 across 134 cabins. Irish Ferries has no pet-friendly cabins on its French routes (pets stay in vehicles or onboard kennels, depending on the ships and routes involved), but also sails from Dublin to Cherbourg year-round with the Epsilon and WB Yeats ships. The last of its wine mini-cruises to France departs Dublin for Cherbourg on the W.B. Yeats on October 12, including a hosted onboard tasting event, and shopping at partner outlets in Cherbourg, from 448 for two with a car and cabin. It also has a 'Sail-Rail' offer where you can claim back 10pc on the cost of your ferry crossing if you book an onward train journey from Cherbourg. Its 2025 France fares and specials are expected shortly. Roderic O'Gorman accepted there has been underinvestment in the sector 'for decades'. Photo: Maxwells Childcare facilities are a lifeline for families. They are also often a vital bridge to employment without them, how can a parent go out to work? One in three children here is in some form of childcare, with creches or similar formal settings the most commonly used option, according to Census 2022. But the Federation of Early Childhood Providers (FECP) has embarked on a three-day strike campaign, over what it sees as chronic underfunding. It says it is desperate to plug the gap between state subsidies, what parents can afford to pay and what the providers require to make their businesses viable. The sector has been struggling for years. Figures from the Department of Children show 141 creches closed last year and 46 are closing this year. Childrens Minister Roderic OGorman said he was very disappointed at the action. But he accepted there has been underinvestment in the sector for decades. The refusal by successive governments to resource the educational needs of children in their most formative years represents a resounding failure. Study after study highlights worldwide recognition of the importance of committing funding to pre-school services. It reinforces vital social, cognitive and emotional skills, laying down a priceless foundation for future learning. Mr OGorman accepts that. Were playing catch-up, but weve made really important strides over the last three years, a 400m increase, he said. Last year, childcare providers agreed to freeze their fees to avail of a new 221m core funding scheme from the Government. But some have seen no increases in pay since 2010. The sector believes the current funding model works for parents, but does not do enough to guarantee they can keep their doors open. Their core arguments are that it is too little, and comes with too many strings attached. The cost-of-living crisis has now made it impossible to continue. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said the strike is not warranted and has caused great inconvenience for parents. But many of the mothers who flooded down Kildare Street to protest outside the Dail in solidarity insisted the Government has to do more. In the Dail, Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said Government policy had failed, with parents paying the equivalent of a second mortgage in childcare fees. But Mr Varadkar said the Governments objective is to reduce the cost of childcare by 50pc, and the cost had gone down by roughly 25pc last year. Yet the shortage of creches and childcare facilities is reflected in the fact that such is the demand for places, parents are enrolling their children even before they are born. Evidence shows how the cost of inadequate daycare can be seen in the incalculable toll it can take on a childs life. Whereas good-quality daycare costs only money. We can clearly do better. As far as international drug busts go, the seizure of 2.25 tonnes of cocaine was as dramatic and daring as one could imagine it could easily have been a scene from a blockbuster movie. The container ship named the MV Matthew, shadowed by LE William Butler Yeats off the mouth of Cork Harbour. Photo: Daragh McSweeney/Provision To paraphrase Robin Williams, the seizure of 160m to 500m of cocaine was Gods way of telling Irish crime gangs they are making too much money. The fact the LE William Butler Yeats played a role in the seizure adds a nice touch of poetic justice. The combined garda and military operation off the coast of Cork has struck a blow against the ruthless murderers across the world who profit from preying on drug users. If the drugs originated from the dark world of the South American cartels, they were destined for the equally sinister and ruthless crime gangs we have at home. These peddlers of death are now major players in the international narcotics underworld. Those who use drugs are subsidising this cycle, but there is something demonic about creating a desperate need and then mercilessly exploiting those who succumb to it. Assistant Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly was in no doubt that a number of organised crime groups in Ireland, the UK and Europe were in on the record haul, which may have a street value of up to 500m. Theres no large shipment like this coming into our ports or transiting our country without an Irish criminal group involved, he added. For years, the Irish coast has been described as the cocaine highway because of the ease with which shipments of illicit drugs can be delivered to the hands of criminals. Mr Kelly claimed the seizure sends a message that Ireland isnt an easy place to import drugs into and that we will be relentless and determined to disrupt and dismantle criminal gangs. But while the seizure represents a great achievement for all involved and is a triumph for intelligence- led operations, we cannot paper over the cracks in the system. As one-time deputy leader of the Army Ranger Wing and now Independent TD Cathal Berry pointed out, we still have a big problem when it comes to tackling drug-smuggling in Irish waters. The Naval Service has eight vessels, but has only enough crew to man two due to a recruitment and retention crisis. Its well known at this stage that Irish territorial waters are notoriously unprotected, Mr Barry told RTE. Lieutenant General Sean Clancy, the Chief of Staff of the Irish Defence Forces, quite rightly commended the courage, discipline and professionalism of all those involved in the seizure. If such successes are to continue, the Defence Forces and An Garda Siochana must be given all the resources they need. In the words of Seneca: He who does not prevent a crime, when he can, encourages it. We have enough grim evidence to understand there are no lengths to which criminals will not go. With this in mind, there cannot be a question mark hanging over how far the State is prepared to go to stop them. 'What the Government is doing now is in effect subsidising the already exorbitant profits of the ESB and other big players in the market by offering credits and allowances to those worst off'. Photo: Getty Charlie Westons report that 256,000 residential electricity customers were in arrears at the end of June is a shocking indictment of government policy (One-in-eight homes now in arrears on their energy bills, Irish Independent, September 26). Recently An Bord Pleanala refused planning permission in my county for a privately funded 650m liquefied natural gas terminal because it was contrary to government policy. Ultimately this facility would have provided much-needed competition at wholesale level for the supply of gas to generate electricity in this country. What the Government is doing now is in effect subsidising the already exorbitant profits of the ESB and other big players in the market by offering credits and allowances to those worst off. Customers, I might add, that do not give an iota about where wholesale gas comes from to keep their homes lit. Anyone who understands economics and the fluctuations in the so-called free market knows how all of this will likely end up a recession. And, unfortunately, it is the poorest and those at the bottom of the ladder who will suffer most, again. In the meantime the cartel-like conditions that exist in the wholesale electricity market, where rates are reduced at the same time (November) and by similar amounts by almost all of the retail providers, continue to go largely unchallenged. Tom McElligott Listowel, Co Kerry Lorraine Courtney needs to get out of 60s mentality to see validity of degrees The reference to whatever youre having yourself degrees by Lorraine Courtney is misguided (Irish Independent, September 26). Education Minister Simon Harris has opened up third level to unearth everyones talents, not to shoehorn students into doing degrees. Hes not fixated on the what we really need are jobs mentality. No, his philosophy is a diamond. Find what youre passionate about, and the barista will become a business owner, the plumber who loves his job will establish a business and create jobs, the overqualified factory worker will take a leap and open a factory. Stop the 1960s thinking, embrace every degree for its potential, stop the better degrees thinking. No, medicine is not better than plumbing. He missed law but is repeating nothing galls me more than the one-upmanship. Those were the people shoe-horned no, bulldozed into careers that many of them hated. Let Mr Harris lead the revolution in education, let all students find what they truly love and follow that path. Lets break through the glass ceiling in education, and embrace education for life, for everyone. Margaret Docherty Terenure, Dublin 6W When will government put welfare of our young ahead of housing profits? Dublin, once celebrated for its warmth and hospitality, now finds itself caught in a vice grip of soaring property prices and unscrupulous property developers. It is a situation that has pushed our young population to the brink, leaving it exhausted from the relentless cycle of saving, paying extortionate rent, and struggling to maintain a semblance of a social life, let alone a life worth living. Now in 2023, we find ourselves wondering if we have passed the point of no return in this housing crisis. The year 2021 saw a glimmer of hope when a proposed ban on developers building rent-only properties was on the horizon but, alas, this hope remains unfulfilled. Today its imperative to ask our Housing Minister some tough questions: * How long will young Dubliners be held hostage by property developers who prioritise profit over peoples wellbeing? * Is it justifiable that our young are compelled to dedicate the majority of their income to sky-high rents, leaving little room for saving or a quality life? * What steps have been taken to enforce the ban on rent-only properties, and why is progress so sluggish? * When will the Government prioritise affordable housing? The situation has gone beyond a mere crisis; its a full-blown catastrophe. Young Dubliners are trapped in an unending cycle of unaffordable rents, saving for an elusive home, and trying to maintain their mental and emotional health. Burnout is the new norm. Dublins property developers have profited immensely from this crisis, capitalising on the vulnerability of those seeking a place to call home. In closing, I ask the Housing Minister this: How much longer will Dubliners have to endure this relentless onslaught by property developers before genuine change is enacted? When will the Government put the wellbeing of its citizens before profit margins? Michael Flanagan Harolds Cross, Dublin Squeezed middle needs a tax break, moving a united Ireland one step closer In the run-up to the Budget, it is clear that there is a pressing and urgent need for the Government to legislate for tax fairness for the squeezed-middle taxpayers. In circumstances where Revenue is reporting that 1.07 million workers, nearly one in three of all taxpayers, are paying the higher 40pc rate, it is time to ensure tax fairness by substantially increasing the upper limit of the standard income tax rate band. Whilst it was welcome that the standard rate cut-off point was increased from 36,800 to 40,000 for single people in the last Budget, this is still substantially lower than the equivalent cut-off point across the Border in Northern Ireland, where the UK 40pc rate currently kicks in at 50,271, or approximately 57,759. Allowing hard-working taxpayers to have more of their own money to spend or save is not only a moral good in itself, but bringing the rate closer to the UK rate is also a step that helps bring about closer economic harmonisation on a north-south basis. Anyone who aspires to a united Ireland must surely realise that the relatively high personal income tax burden in the Republic is a major deterrent to any economically rational voter in the North. It is therefore clearly in Sinn Feins interests to support tax equity for the squeezed middle, by supporting any increase in the standard rate cut-off point to as close to the UK rate as possible. It is also unarguably the case that the current high marginal personal tax rate negatively impacts Irelands attractiveness as a destination for talent and foreign direct investment. The Government should therefore take the opportunity to bring about substantial tax equity by increasing the standard rate cut-off point to at least 50,000 as an important first step on the way to further much-needed tax fairness measures. Joseph G OHanlon Address with editor Dan Wootton has been sacked by the MailOnline just a day after he was suspended by GB News for his interview with actor Laurence Fox where remarks were made about the appearance of a female journalist Ava Evans. Who are the men at the centre of the scandal? Dan Wootton during an interview with Laurence Fox (right) on an episode of Dan Wootton Tonight (PA) Dan Wootton has been sacked by the MailOnline just after he was suspended by GB News for his interview with actor Laurence Fox about a female journalist. A spokesperson for DMG Media, the parent company of MailOnline, said: Following events this week, DMG Media can confirm that Dan Woottons freelance column with MailOnline which had already been paused has now been terminated, along with his contract. Wootton was suspended from his primetime nightly show on GB News earlier this week over his reactions to an interview with Laurence Fox about the appearance of journalist Ava Evans. Ellen Coyne is joined on the Indo Daily podcast by TRT World presenter Enda Brady and Dave Hanratty from the Irish Independent, to look at the GB News scandal and ask who are Dan Wootton and Laurence Fox, and what next for the two men? Members of Myrtle The Coast Residents Association at the temporary stairwell which has been in place for 13 years. Pic: Mark Condren Residents from Clongriffin and Baldoyle protesting outside the 'temporary' access to their local Dart station this week A large group of Dublin residents turned out in force this week to protest over the condition of the lift at their local Dart station. The lift at Clongriffin, previously described as a flighty cage, is now entering its third week out of order, causing ongoing problems for people in the area. It is totally unacceptable that the temporary access, which is not fit for purpose, is still in place 13 years later, said Cian OCallaghan TD. The structure is made up of four flights of perforated metal stairs and the lift itself. Joining community members at the protest were local TDs Cian OCallaghan of the Social Democrats and Denise Mitchell of Sinn Fein, along with local councillors and area representatives Joan Hopkins, David Healy, Brian McDonagh, Jimmy Guerin, Aoibhin Tormey and Cathal Haughey. Speaking at the protest, Mr OCallaghan said: There needs to be safe, permanent and universal access to Clongriffin Dart Station that is well maintained by Irish Rail. I raised this in the Dail with the Taoiseach this week. He committed to following up with Irish Rail. Funding must be provided for a proper, safe and permanent universal access from Baldoyle. Locals claim the lift is frequently out of order, meaning there is no access for people with mobility and sight issues, those with young children in pushchairs, or travelling by bike. When the lift is working, residents have said its often filled with urine, faeces and vomit which renders it inaccessible. The property is currently not the responsibility of Irish Rail as it is privately owned by developer, Richmond Homes, who is responsible for the maintenance of the lift and stairs. However, Richmond Homes has stressed that, as a company, it is neither qualified nor experienced to manage this access point. Placard placed next to the broken lift at Clongriffin Dart Station Local Green party councillor David Healy added: It is a disgrace that the people of Baldoyle and Clongriffin have had to live with this rundown, dirty and often broken access to the train station for over a decade. Richmond Homes is legally responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the access and the lift, but it is failing to meet its obligations. We will continue to work with the other local councillors to get this situation resolved, he added. Samantha OFlanagan, of the Myrtle The Coast Residents Association, said: The sheer volume of locals that turned up shows the demand for something to be done. Weve been waiting 13 years for permanent, safe, universal access. Enough is enough. The government need to take our call for action seriously. Richmond Homes and Fingal County Council have been contacted for comment. Minister Catherine Martin said the planning application 'marks an important day for the National Library'. Pic: Steve Humphreys The National Library of Ireland building on Kildare Street opened in 1890 A planning application has been lodged for refurbishment works and a new extension at The National Library of Ireland. Dublin City Council received the documents this week with plans to transform the cultural space of the historic building on Kildare Street in Dublin 2. The lodging of this planning application marks an important day for the National Library, said Minister Catherine Martin. The proposed redevelopment will include the conservation, refurbishment and adaptation of the west wing of the building. It will create new public areas housed over six levels with exhibition and event spaces, a bespoke learning centre, a cafe, retail and additional public facilities. There will be a new six-storey extension in the rear courtyard to facilitate universal access. Cross section view of the planned National Library extension Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Ms Martin added: The redevelopment will give the NLI additional exhibition space, allowing it to showcase more of the national collections in its care and allowing for greater access for the people of Ireland and visitors from around the world. This legacy project will enhance Dublins cultural offering as a place to visit, live and work, in line with the spatial goals and sustainability principles of the Project Ireland 2040 National Planning Framework. The west wing is a former book storage area. The refurbishment project will have a strong focus on sustainability and sensitivity to the architectural heritage of the Victorian-era building. The first phase of this major redevelopment programme, entitled Reimagining the National Library, ran from 2017 until 2019, with the relocation of 350,000 books, newspapers and periodicals from the Victorian-era west wing to newly developed, safer book storage. Minster of State at the Office of Public Works, Patrick ODonovan TD said: The OPW is delighted to lodge the planning application for this culturally significant project. The OPW has been working closely with the NLI, Minister Martins department and conservation architects Fitzgerald Kavanagh and Partners to develop a project that will deliver a modern, accessible, sustainable amenity that respects the historic nature of the building. Computer generated image of roof area in the proposed extension of the National Library of Ireland Once completed, it will allow visitors to experience this remarkable building, redeveloped in a sustainable manner, with its fine key features retained or repurposed. Director of the National Library of Ireland, Dr Audrey Whitty, added: The National Library of Ireland commenced the Reimagining the National Library project in 2017. This once in a generation project is the most significant investment in the National Library of Ireland since the main building on Kildare Street opened in 1890. This refurbishment project will be a transformational redevelopment for the NLI, enhancing our historic building for significant new uses. The new exhibition and learning spaces will be free of charge, bi-lingual and fully accessible. This will enable the NLI to share the stories of Ireland with the widest and most diverse audiences possible. A man who drove a stolen scooter at gardai, forcing them to take evasive action, has been convicted and directed to complete 150 hours community service in lieu of two months imprisonment. Ciaran Nugent (20), Rathmullen Park, Drogheda, pleaded guilty to summonses for dangerous driving, no insurance and handling stolen property arising from the incident on 12 August 2021. Gda Eric Scurry testified that at 4.40pm he signalled the defendant to stop. He failed to do so, forcing gardai to swerve out of the way. The scooter went onto the pavement before Mr Nugent and another man who was on the scooter abandoned it and fled. It was discovered that the scooter had been stolen. There were two previous convictions for Section 3 possession of cannabis and making threats to kill. Solicitor Aimee McCumiskey said her client was aged 18 at the time. He didnt know the scooter was stolen. He bought it with some friends for 300. The defendant never had a father figure in his life. A family friend had taken him under his wing, and they spent days out fishing on the Irish Sea. He was willing to offer compensation to the scooters owner. Northwest Hindu Cultural Society in Sligo celebrated the Ganesh Chaturthi (a Hindu festival) on Saturday at Rathcormac National School with a special session held to explain the relevance of different Hindu rituals and traditions with science Dr Hanumantha Rao Marepalli, a Software professional who is also serving as Vice Chancellor at e-Yogi Gurukuls Spirituality and Science of Hinduism (SSH) University based in Dublin explained how the Hindu scriptures from thousands of years ago contain valuable knowledge that the modern science is discovering only now. He said, The Hindu scriptures like the Vedas and the Purans that were once handwritten on palm leaves or other materials by the Hindu saints contain such information that our modern scientists are discovering now. These scriptures contain information from mathematics to astronomy and to medical sciences as well. But we are slowly becoming distant from our culture because we dont understand those significances behind the traditions that have been followed for centuries. The families that are moving out of India and the kids who have been born and raised in other countries need to be taught about the importance of Spirituality and Hinduism in our day-to-day life. I was myself unaware of these until I felt that my kids needed to know about their roots and their culture. Thats when I started to read and research all this. The more I read, the more it grew on me and now I am trying to share the knowledge that I gained with everyone else. The occasion was just right to talk about knowledge and education as Lord Ganesha himself is revered as the god of Wisdom and prosperity. Ganesh Chaturthi or Vinayaka Chaturthi is a 10-day festival celebrated to mark the birth of the elephant-headed deity Ganesha. Although the celebration has been there for thousands of years, it took the nature of public celebration when Marath Ruler Shivaji used it to encourage nationalist sentiments among his people while fighting against the Mughals between 1630-80. The festival was revived again in 1893 by the Indian nationalist leader Bal Gangadhar Tilak, when the Britishers banned political assemblies in the country. Today, the festival is celebrated by Hindu communities worldwide and is especially popular in Maharashtra and western parts of India. Sligo/Leitrim TD Frank Feighan also joined the celebrations and said, Its always fun to join in the Indian celebrations. They are fun filled and the atmosphere is so energetic that it fills you with loads of energy. I always looking forward to these events. Leading Spanish cultural journalists from a number of high-profile Spanish media outlets including daily newspapers and popular magazines have been exploring Sligo and Ireland and our literary hotspots, as guests of Tourism Ireland and Failte Ireland. The journalists who have a combined readership of millions of people across Spain are finding out about some of our literary greats like WB Yeats, Oscar Wilde, Seamus Heaney and CS Lewis. Tourism Irelands aim is to highlight our rich literary heritage in Spain particularly to its important culturally curious audience. The journalists action-packed itinerary includes lots of places associated with our famous writers and our literary heritage including Yeats Country in Sligo. They met with WB Yeats expert Martin Enright, who brought them to Drumcliffe Church to see Yeats grave, as well as along the Benbulben Forest Walk and to Glencar Lake and Waterfall. The journalists also had lunch at Glencar teaSHED and dinner at Eala Bhan. They stayed overnight at The Glasshouse. Susan Bolger, Tourism Irelands Manager Spain, said: Tourism Ireland was delighted to invite these influential Spanish journalists to come and discover some of our top literary attractions and learn about our literary greats. The articles the journalists write when they return home will be read by millions of Spaniards, so this visit is a really good opportunity to showcase Sligos rich literary heritage to a wide audience of prospective Spanish visitors. Tourism Ireland undertakes a busy publicity programme around the world each year to raise the profile of Ireland and visits by influential travel writers like these are a key element of that programme. Spain is the fifth-largest market for overseas tourism to the island of Ireland. In 2019, we welcomed 431,000 visitors from Spain to the island of Ireland, who spent 218 million during their time here. A convoy of vintage and classic cars is set to rev their engines and roll into Enniscorthy Mart this weekend for the Gerard Murphy Memorial Car Run on Sunday, October 1. This years event is going to be even bigger than usual as they are also celebrating 100 years of Fiat and there are two classic and vintage cars up for grabs. Two lucky raffle winners will be rolling home in a Toyota Corolla Twin-Cam and a Ford Escort that was featured in one of Richie Kavanaghs music videos. Aside from the many vehicles on display during the static show and road run, the events main aim is to raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention. The Memorial Run began following the death of Gerard Murphy who died by suicide in January 2011. Gerard loved cars and worked on them along with his brothers and father. Gerard's mother, Brid says the Memorial Run is a great way to get involved with the community and bring people together. Its a cause for our heart. If we could help one family so they dont lose a child, Brid said. This year, the Memorial Run will raise money for Slaney Search and Rescue, Wexford MarineWatch, the Samaritans and a fourth charity they are still deciding on. There will be a Samaritans stand on-site, as well as live music, food trucks and trade stands. Car enthusiasts have been coming form all over Ireland and the UK since 2011 for this event. It is the last big outdoor car show of the year and not only will there be up to one thousand cars on display, there will also be trucks, lorries and tractors. A lot of work goes into organising the event each year and Brid says theyll start work on next years event as soon as next week. Brid is a big mental health advocate and has helped a lot of people since the death of her son. Some of the helplines she refers people to include Samaritans, Aware, Its Good 2 Talk, Talk To Tom and HSE Community Mental Health Wexford. They announced that the flight would be delayed by an hour. Later that was changed to two, and then three. And finally to a chorus of moans, The flight to Dublin is cancelled. Photo: Bloomberg We were nervous about the taxi, it had been raining since the alarm went off at 7.00am and the narrow road outside was so dark and deserted it was hard to imagine any vehicles bothering to venture upon it for another good while. I had gone looking for coffee at 8.30 to see if we could cheer ourselves up, but even the place on the corner with the two ambitious young fellas running it, was closed. Cafe awnings that were normally used to shade the customers from sunshine, were now used to protect stacked dining chairs from the torrential downpour. The taxi was booked for 9.30, that time had passed and still no sign. We were out on the street hoping that the rain wouldnt resume while we we were huddled in by the graffitied wall on that obscure Athens laneway. I didnt feel secure, our confirmation was just a bunch of printed words from an email address, for all we knew they couldve been typed by a canary. Theres something scary about booking a taxi by email. At least when you have spoken to someone, you have the comfort of knowing their voice. But we are moving into a world now where businesses prefer to keep us at a distance, the absolute last resort is to speak to you. Turned out that the booking was as sound as a pound, the taxi rounded the corner at 9.40. We were greeted with the usual chaos at the airport, but had enough time to deal with security and the forever-walk towards the Aer Lingus gate. After sitting there for ages, they announced that the flight would be delayed by an hour. Later that was changed to two, and then three. And finally to a chorus of moans, The flight to Dublin is cancelled. Now what happens, people wondered? Clare wasnt surprised, she had seen the crew skidaddle earlier. It was left to the Greeks to explain, and after much disorder, we were given back our bags and bussed to a hotel back in Athens, where we had dinner. Most of the women took this as an opportunity to get out their evening dresses. Clare and I were beat we ate and went to bed. At 7.30am the next day, we hauled our cases out to the bus again, and after a bit of a bun fight, got on board. Going through the security again was exasberating, as was the forever-walk to the gate, again. Ensconced there, we had coffee and spinach-pies....again, wed grown tired of them. It was a worry to see the crew, including the captain. waiting there with us drinking coffee. Looking out, it was clear that there was no plane yet. The young captain was on the phone, probably avoiding an excess of camaraderie with the crew, finally a bus came and took them off to someplace where there was a plane, we supposed. After an hour we saw the shamrock on an Airbus tail. We drank more coffee, and eventually boarded. After an hour in our seats we grew very hot, and the pilot apologetically announced that something was being installed. Two hours later, the crew playfully suggested we get off the plane and stand on the boarding stairwells where there was a breeze. We watched the ground crew run a huge hose into the plane from a heavy motor on big wheels. The motor got a flat, and the tyre came off of it. An hour later, the attendants brought us back on board. The captain announced that hed never seen such incompetence, and apologised again. Im writing this in bed, so obviously we got home. The City of Dothan and the Alabama Department of Public Health will host the 19th annual Health & Wellness Workshop on Thursday, Oct. 5, from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Dothan Civic Center. This event includes free diagnostic testing, healthcare speakers, vendors, demonstrations, and door prizes such as a $1,000 cash prize giveaway. Lunch will also be provided for participants. Sock Hop is the theme for this year, and participants are encouraged to shake, rattle, and roll to good health. Throughout the last 18 years, the Health & Wellness Workshop has served in promoting health related issues to thousands throughout the Wiregrass area. The goal of the event is to promote good health and encourage healthy living throughout the area. For more information about the Health & Wellness Workshop, contact John Milner, recreation program coordinator, at 334-615-3700. Gardai trying to establish if Castlemore is linked to MV Matthew which was stormed with 157m worth of cocaine on boardGarda Commissioner Drew Harris said a huge investment was needed for a drug shipment of this size A major salvage operation is underway to recover a trawler which ran aground off Wexford just hours before a drugs 'mother ship' carrying 2.2 tonnes of cocaine was detained in a dramatic operation by the Naval Service off the Cork coast. The old trawler Castlemore - which had been purchased just the previous week in west Cork having been for sale for several months - ran aground on a sandbank off Blackwater, Wexford, on Sunday evening triggering a major rescue operation. Gardai are now investigating whether the vessel had been scheduled to rendezvous with the bulk carrier MV Matthew which was detained in an armed mission by the Naval Service, Army Ranger Wing and Gardai and is now impounded in Cork harbour. A seventh man has now been arrested in connection with the drug bust, which has been described as the largest in the the history of the State. The trawler's crew remain under arrest in Wexford garda stations. Three other men were arrested on Wednesday. Their period of detention has already been extended. A tug, supported by the Irish Lights Vessel Granuaile, arrived at the sandbank off Blackwater just before 2pm on Thursday to try to recover the old trawler. ILV Granuaile sailed from Dun Laoghaire on Thursday morning to offer support if required. The specialised Irish Lights vessel is described as a multi-functional vessel which can operate in difficult sea conditions. The trawler Castlemore wallowing in heavy seas of the Wexford coast, even before Storm Agnes blew in on Wednesday. Its primary function is to service offshore buoys, however it also serves as a helicopter platform and is available to assist state agencies with search and rescue and emergency towing. The Coast Guard Rescue 117 helicopter has also returned to the scene of the stricken trawler this morning and circled the sandbank off the Wexford coast. Divers are also set to be deployed both to examine the hull of the trawler and to inspect the area of seabed around the vessel. This is to determine if any cargo was dumped from the trawler in the hours before rescue services arrived at the scene. Cocaine haul worth 157 million euro is biggest drug seizure in Irelands history Meanwhile, the Garda Commissioner Drew Harris, addressing the Policing Authority, said it was a complex investigation involving the identification of the cargo vessel with their suspicions further corroborated by intelligence and active investigation. He said they had gathered evidence in relation to the movement of drugs and that there are other lines of inquiry they want to pursue relating, particularly relating to the money involved, saying a huge investment was needed to engage in this scale of an operation. A very significant part of our investigation is exactly how the logistics of this was managed in terms of both the shipping container, the trawler and the individuals as well. He said there is a lot of work left to do but that it was a significant capture with a loss of revenue to probably a number of transnationals crime gangs. There has already been speculation in respect of the scale of the shipment and how it would be subdivided, he told the meeting, adding that these are all areas that will be investigated further prior to files being sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions. The Policing Authority were told that the seizure highlights the importance of international relationships, including the role of garda liaisons officers stationed in different countries, and the difference that makes. The Garda Commissioner also paid tribute to the Revenue and the Defence Forces for their role in the investigation which included the dangerous operation of boarding the cargo ship and securing evidence as well as suspects. Garda Commissioner Drew Harris (Brian Lawless/PA) A major search has been ongoing for the past three days of the seas around Wexford to determine if any cargo is floating on the surface - with the search effort hampered by Storm Agnes. If the trawler's hull is intact and in good condition it is expected that the vessel will be brought to Cork harbour where it will be berthed near Haulbowline Naval Base. However, if there are concerns about the trawler's hull it will instead be taken to the nearest port in Wexford or Waterford. The trawler will then be subjected to a detailed forensic and technical examination. It was purchased in Castletownbere by two individuals, one with a UK address and the other an eastern European national who claimed not to speak English, who said it was for fishing operations from Brixham in Devon. However, it ran aground on a sandbank less than 48 hours after it departed Castletownbere on Friday - and its route off Wexford was not a charted course for Brixham. Gardai are now liaising with police in the United Arab Emirates, China, the UK, Spain and the Caribbean over the 22-year-old Panamanian-registered bulk carrier that operated as the 'mother ship' for cocaine shipments from South America into Europe. The 28,000 tonne MV Matthew - which was previously known as the MV Honmon - is now being examined by forensic and technical experts at anchor at Marino Point in Cork harbour after it was interdicted by the Naval Service in a dramatic operation off the south coast on Tuesday. A whopping 2.2 tonnes of cocaine was discovered in the cargo hold of the freighter. An initial value of 157m has been placed on the drugs seized but, if the purity of the cocaine is as high as Gardai fear, it could prove multiple times that value. Gardai have already described it as the largest haul in the history of the State. The cocaine was transported under armed guard on Wednesday evening to a secure storage facility in Dublin. Garda sources warned the search of the vessel will likely take several days and may involve interior bulkheads being dismantled to ensure any potential hidden compartments are located. The freighter - which is valued at 9.5m - is anchored at Marino Point, an isolated and secure anchorage in Cork Harbour. Technical and forensic experts will painstakingly examine the vessel from bow to stern including its bilge and fuel tanks. A Naval Service vessel had to fire across the bow of the freighter as it steamed towards international waters and away from the Cork coast on Tuesday. The ship was then detained at gunpoint after a unit of the elite Army Ranger Wing abseiled from an Air Corps helicopter onto the ship's deck and directed its crew to follow Naval Service instructions. An estimated 157m worth of cocaine was recovered from the ship which Gardai suspect was being used by a South American-based drugs cartel to supply the European market. Detectives believe that, such is the scale of the 2.2 tonne drugs haul, that the shipment was destined for the Irish and UK markets as well as potentially Continental European markets. Samples of the drugs have now been sent to the State Laboratory to try to determine their precise origin with Garda sources said they expect the drugs to have been sourced from the Medellin area of Columbia. That indicates that the purity of the cocaine is expected to prove extremely high - potentially making the street value of the seizure multiple times greater than the current estimate. It marks yet another major drug seizure off Ireland's south coast following previous major operations including Dunlough Bay (440m - 2007), Dances With Waves (400m - 2008) and Makayabella (2014 - 350m). The street value of the Makayabella haul was increased from an initial 80m to almost 350m when it emerged that the cocaine was close to maximum possible purity. Gardai and Naval Service officials are now coordinating with Interpol and Europol amid fears the freighter was also making drug shipments to other European countries. The bulk carrier is owned via a shelf company in China linked to the Marshall Islands and is managed by a marine operations firm based in the United Arab Emirates. One source noted that it is the only vessel operated by that firm. It is registered in Panama but has spent a portion of recent months operating off South America and the Caribbean. Maritime officials are now trying to pinpoint the precise movements of the freighter in the Caribbean - and why it apparently loitered for almost two weeks off the Canary Islands. Officials are also curious over why the name of the vessel was changed. One source confirmed that the ship left waters off Venezuela on August 18. "That is significant because the seas around Venezuela are usually where the Colombian cartels load up their 'mother ships'. Three of the previous four major Irish drug shipments had connections to those waters," he said. On August 18, the ship left waters off Venezuela and was last reported at Willemstad in Curacao in the Caribbean. The freighter crossed the Atlantic and then spent over a week in waters near the Canary Islands in early September. Maritime officials are curious at this because the vessel apparently loitered in the waters off the African coast for almost two weeks. It then skirted Spain and France before heading towards Ireland and the UK, finally entering Irish waters off the Cork coast. The freighter issued an emergency alert to the Irish authorities indicating that its captain had been injured in a serious fall on board and required medical attention. A successful airlift brought the injured sailor to an Irish hospital where he is being treated for non-life threatening injuries. Bizarrely, in the 48 hours before it was detained, the freighter also signalled that it was having engine trouble and required maintenance work in Cork Port. However, the bulk carrier then abruptly headed towards international waters at high speed on Monday evening. This is believed to have occurred after it was realised a trawler which the freighter was expected to rendezvous with had run aground on a sandbank off the Wexford coast, prompting a major rescue operation on Sunday night and into the early hours of Monday morning. The freighter was then intercepted by the Naval Service and detained by armed members of the Army Ranger Wing. Initial directions to the freighter to slow and allow the vessel to be boarded were ignored and the Naval Service vessel had to fire warning shots across the bow of the 28,000 tonne ship. The freighter is expected to remain impounded in Cork until next year. Gardai are remaining tight-lipped in relation to the ongoing operation to retrieve smaller vessel and have said that no further comment is available at this time. At a joint task force press conference on Wednesday, Assistant Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly confirmed that, due to difficult weather conditions, nobody had yet been able to board and search the trawler. He also refused to be drawn on whether a handover of drugs had taken place between the cargo ship and the trawler off the Wexford coast, or whether drugs had been dumped overboard, saying these are matters that are being put to the men in custody. All systems are go at the Bridgewater Shopping Centre in Arklow where three new stores, including a gym and cafe, are set to open this side of Christmas. With locations dotted around the country, popular eatery The Pantry will welcome patrons into their new ground floor cafe with the wafting aroma of freshly cooked breakfasts, pastries and cakes on Friday, October 6. Over the coming weeks, an as yet undisclosed store will launch, while in early December, The Mecca Gym will open its doors to fitness enthusiasts, providing a substantial space complete with state-of-the-art equipment. Things are certainly on the up here, Bridgewater Manager Stephanie Staines said. The Pantry is opening up next week, and were super excited about that it looks amazing. Theyll have a fabulous range of breakfasts, lunches, cakes, smoothies and lovely pastries. It will be in the unit opposite Eddie Rockets, which has been completely redecorated. I think this is their 13th store, and they only opened another location in Liffey Valley in Dublin a couple of weeks ago, so they have an excellent reputation. They have locations down in Wexford as well, so a lot of people are probably familiar with their brand and offerings already. We will be hosting a special day to celebrate their opening, so keep an eye on our social media pages. Were so thrilled and excited about the gym opening up, and we expect it to open its doors in early December, Stephanie continued. The gym is going to be in Avoca River House and will take up the whole of the first floor. Its going to be a huge space with state-of-the-art new equipment, and weve had so many inquiries about it already. We also have another store opening up in the next few weeks, which I cant talk about just yet, but all will be revealed soon. Im also happy to announce that gift cards will be returning from Sunday, October 1, which is another bit of good news. Its amazing that were having all this happen all at once, just before we head into Halloween and on to Christmas. Its all go at the Bridgewater at the moment. Wicklow TD Steven Matthews has called on Bray residents to view and make submissions on plans for the N11/M11 Bus Priority Interim Scheme (BPIS) ahead of the deadline, on Friday, October 13. It comes as more concerns have been raised by Bray residents over proposals to close a vital exit on the N11 which is heavily used by commuters to make way for the provision of bus priority measures (in both directions) on the N11/M11 national road. Wicklow County Council, in partnership with Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the National Transport Authority (NTA) are progressing the scheme, which will cover the section of the N11/M11 route from Loughlinstown roundabout in Shankill to the north, to Junction 9 (Glenview) in the south and, among other sections of the route, will impact the Herbert Road exit from Bray onto the N11. It is being proposed that traffic will exit onto the N11/M11 at the roundabout at Hills garage, with works at the roundabout, including signal controlled crossing, proposed to try and facilitate the flow. Commenting on the proposals to close this junction, Deputy Matthews said: I am yet to be convinced that the Herbert Road junction proposal is the correct course of action. I know this junction is important to people in Bray and in the past I have had some safety assessments and works carried out to improve its safety use, including the bollards that are currently installed. The proposal by Transport Infrastructure Ireland, the National Transport Authority, Wicklow County Council and Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Council for improvements to road safety and public transport on the N11 between Junction 4 & Junction 9 is currently out for non-statutory consultation. "This means that they havent finalised in detail all aspects of the proposal. They are seeking the views of residents, motorists, public transport users, cyclists and other road users on the proposal to put priority bus lanes on the N11 to improve the reliability of bus journey times. I encourage people to make a submission outlining their concerns. They will take all the submissions into account before proceeding to a final detailed design. This is your opportunity to tell them how you feel about all aspects of the plan, including how important Herbert Road Junction is to you. When they have taken into account all the submissions, then the final detailed design will be completed and a planning application will be made to An Bord Pleanala in order to get planning permission. This will provide a statutory public consultation period and another opportunity to make a submission on the final plan. Its very important that people make their views known at this early stage, he concluded. Submissions will be accepted via the online feedback form available on the project website n11m11bpis.ie or by email to n11m11@arup.com or by post addressed to N11/M11 Bus Priority Interim Scheme, Transportation Department, Wicklow County Council, County Buildings, Whitegates, Wicklow town, A67 FW96. Angelina Jolie has said she feels a bit down these days and has not been herself for a decade. The Lara Croft: Tomb Raider actress, 48, spoke to Vogue about her family life and collaborative creative collective Atelier Jolie, which she says has been therapeutic for her. Opening up about her emotions, the actress admitted that she is still understanding who she is at 48, and said: I feel a bit down these days. Angelina Jolie attending the EE British Academy Film Awards in 2018 (Yui Mok/PA) I dont feel like Ive been myself for a decade, in a way, which I dont want to get into. According to Vogue, Jolie mentioned that she started doing less film work seven years ago, only taking jobs that didnt require long shoots. We had a lot of healing to do, she said were still finding our footing. Seven years ago in 2016, Jolie filed for a divorce from fellow Hollywood actor Brad Pitt. The couple, who had met on the set of the film Mr And Mrs Smith which was released in 2005, married in 2014 with their six children present. Three of their children are biological and three are adopted. Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt in 2013 (Dominic Lipinski/PA) Jolie spoke about what it was like to become a mother at the age of 26 in 2002, when she adopted her first child Maddox. My entire life changed, she said. Having children saved me and taught me to be in this world differently. I think, recently, I wouldve gone under in a much darker way had I not wanted to live for them. Theyre better than me, because you want your children to be. Of course Im the mother, and hopefully that safe place for them and that stability. But Im also the one that they laugh at and I see them taking over so many different aspects of our family. Keeping it in the family: Trumps adult children in the spotlight as they prepare to testify in New York court The Right Livelihood Award known as the Alternative Nobel has been awarded to environmental activists from Kenya and Cambodia, a human rights defender from Ghana and a humanitarian group that rescues migrants in the Mediterranean Sea. The 2023 laureates stand up to save lives, preserve nature and safeguard the dignity and livelihoods of communities around the world, the award foundation said, adding that they fight for peoples right to health, safety, a clean environment and democracy. There is no doubt that the attack had been planned in advance using Western intelligence means, Nato satellite assets and reconnaissance planes and was implemented upon the advice of American and British security agencies and in close co-ordination with them, said Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova at a press briefing. The separatist government of Nagorno-Karabakh has announced that it will dissolve itself and the unrecognized republic will cease to exist by January 1, 2024. The move comes after Azerbaijan carried out a lightning offensive to reclaim full control over its breakaway region and demanded that Armenian troops in Nagorno-Karabakh lay down their weapons and the separatist government dissolve itself. (TTCO) - Nhu bao TTC a ua tin "Vietcombank Soc Trang sap bi cuong che thi hanh an?", vi sao phai ua en tranh chap nay va a qua 3 lan xet xu tu so tham, phuc tham va giam oc tham? e ban oc co them thong tin, TTC se tiep tuc thong tin ve vu viec nay. Image credit: Pixabay Over the past seven years, entrepreneurship has become a priority in Uzbekistan's policy. It is evident how much attention the government dedicates to this area. Incentives are being introduced, credits are being allocated, and comprehensive support is being provided to all categories of businesses, from small to large. It is no secret that the country's economic development directly depends on the growth of its businesses. In turn, the key annual event in Uzbekistan that shapes the future paths of business development is the President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's meetings with entrepreneurs in an open dialogue format. These events allow business representatives to share their proposals and opinions, which will undoubtedly be heard. This year, during an open dialogue with entrepreneurs, took place on August 18, the President of Uzbekistan proposed a series of initiatives that were formulated based on the received suggestions and aimed at improving the business environment in the country. New Opportunities for Small Business To support and foster the development of small businesses, a comprehensive ecosystem will be established. For this purpose, the 'Qishlok Qurilish Bank' will be transformed into the 'Business Development Bank.' Both its activities and methods of operation will undergo significant changes, including financing mechanisms. Specifically, a small business center will be established in each region under the auspices of the bank. These centers will facilitate the development of business projects initiated by entrepreneurs. They will independently provide training for entrepreneurs seeking to implement new projects, attract necessary specialists, offer accounting, tax, auditing, marketing, legal, and other consulting services. Additionally, project financing for entrepreneurs who have undergone training in regional small business centers will be arranged under the most favorable conditions. With the assistance of the small business centers, cooperative ties will be established between project initiators and major state enterprises. The centers will support new enterprises in adopting modern technologies, enhancing employee qualifications, and effectively launching their products. Medium-sized Business - Guarantor of Sustainable Economic Growth In his speech, the President noted that the conditions for medium-sized businesses are currently insufficient. Guarantees or compensations for commercial loans are only provided by the Entrepreneurship Fund, and even then, not for everyone. Therefore, new approaches will be established to support entrepreneurs who aspire to transition from small to medium-sized business. The Entrepreneurship Fund will now be responsible for providing financial assistance to projects in the service and service sectors, 'green' and energy-efficient projects. Meanwhile, the Industrial Development Fund will oversee industrial projects. These funds will not be limited to budgetary resources; they are empowered to independently attract investments. Consequently, in the coming year, they will attract an additional $1 billion for medium-sized businesses. Furthermore, an industrial mortgage system will be implemented, and production sites will be constructed and handed over to entrepreneurs as 'ready-made businesses.' Specifically, no less than 3 new industrial zones will be established in each region. Moreover, in industrial zones where a production facility is launched, land plots can be privatized after fulfilling investment commitments. Simultaneously, the fund will also provide loan guarantees in foreign currency for medium-sized businesses. The fund will introduce a 'service mortgage' system in the fields of tourism, trade, and services. Henceforth, entrepreneurs will be presented with ready-made projects for establishments such as hotels, restaurants, shopping complexes, parking lots, gas stations, and camping sites. Additionally, the fund allocates resources to entrepreneurs for the acquisition of land plots for service facilities, building constructions, infrastructure, and working capital. Entering New Markets One of the significant opportunities for expanding exports is attracting prestigious foreign brands to Uzbekistan. For instance, 50 of the most popular brands globally, with an annual market exceeding $100 billion, have shown keen interest in collaborating with our enterprises. Following the President's directive, a working group conducted negotiations with major brands from Spain, Germany, Poland, and Turkey. They are prepared to place orders totaling $3 billion with our local enterprises. To facilitate this, three crucial concerns they have will be addressed. International standards, ecological and certification requirements for production will be implemented. Adequate working conditions will be established, and a favorable customs regime for the import and export of products from renowned brands will be introduced. Increase of High-Yield Enterprises With the engagement of international consultants, 140 ready projects have been developed in the fields of electrical engineering, construction materials production, textile, leather and footwear, jewelry, furniture, polymer, chemical, and food industries. Their combined value amounts to $10 billion, encompassing the creation of 60 thousand job opportunities, production output of $5 billion annually, and exports totaling $2.5 billion. These 140projects have been listed on an electronic platform and are offered to entrepreneurs under open and transparent conditions. Companies enrolled in the program will receive low interest loans with a tenure of 10 years from the Industrial Development Fund. Simplified Tax Administration In surveys, 70 percent of value-added tax (VAT) payers have reported unfair application of the tax credit coefficient in VAT refunds, a practice known as 'tax-gap.' A significant number of complaints regarding corruption within the tax system are directly related to the 'tax-gap' issue. Therefore, starting from October 1st, the practice of applying the tax credit coefficient during VAT refunds will be abolished. Furthermore, in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Business Ombudsman, representatives from the business sphere will introduce an open rating for entrepreneurs. Starting from January 1st of the following year, enterprises with high ratings will be exempt from all forms of tax audits. They will receive excessive VAT refunds within one day, and the practice of temporarily suspending the value-added tax payer certificate will be revoked. It is no secret that currently, desk audits have completely transformed into tax audits, which also paves the way for corruption. Henceforth, during this procedure, demanding documents from entrepreneurs or summoning them to tax authorities is strictly prohibited. The President also noted that currently, a single tax violation results in both financial penalties and administrative fines as if the violation were committed by an individual. This practice will now be abolished. In general, fines imposed on entrepreneurs should not lead to the suspension of their operations. From this standpoint, all financial sanctions will be reviewed over the course of three months, and fair criteria for their implementation will be determined.`/++4Z Bishop Elias Frank of Asansol diocese with Fr. Francis Badagu, Fr. Raymond Besra, Fr. Dolphy Mathias, Fr. Arbind Tirkey, Fr. Gerald Machado at the consecration of the altar ceremony of Chelidanga Church in Asansol Asansol: A renovated church at Chelidanga, in Asansols railway colony of West Bengal, named after St John The Apostle was formally blessed recently at an auspicious function attended by the Bishop and parish priests. The consecration of the altar and the first Mass in the renovated church was offered by Bishop Elias Frank, the new Bishop of the Asansol diocese. It was also the Bishops first visit to St. Johns Church after his Episcopal Ordination which took place on Aug 24 at Holy Family Church, Nuta, Burdwan. Also present were Fr. Francis Badagu, Fr. Raymond Besra, Fr. Dolphy Mathias, Fr. Arbind Tirkey, Fr. Gerald Machado and other guests and invitees. The present St Johns Church, Chelidanga, constructed in 1991, required much repair and renovation work after 32 years. The renovation work with colourful glass motifs, windows, and painted vaults have added to the spiritual ambiance, said Parish Priest, Fr. Dolphy Mathias. Thus keeping in mind the place of worship and making it more suitable and appealing to the devotees who come to the Church to pray, an elaborate plan was made to use religious symbols and pictures in the Church, recalls Fr. Mathias, who contacted Church Art Kolkata, the leading Church decor people. The founder and administrative head of Church Art, Subrata Ganguly, who has over 40 years of experience in Church decor and furnishing, took up the task of refurbishing the whole interior, especially the background of the altar, the ceiling, the doors and windows. As the Church is dedicated to St. John the evangelist, who was at the foot of the cross along with Mary. The altar background has been prepared with the scene of the Calvary. Also, a larger-than-life-sized statue of St. John is perched on the rooftop of the Church entrance. Another unique and appealing feature is the twenty mysteries of the rosary depicted with pictures on the windows which gives an instant glimpse of Jesus life. There are ten pictures of the healing and miracles of Jesus on the ceiling of the central aisle which gives a grand look to the whole church. The bronze finish doors with liturgical symbols bring a sense of devotion and prayer as one enters the church. PM Modi alongside US President Joe Biden at G20 meeting in 2023 | Photo courtesy: PIB New Delhi/Washington/IBNS: The United States has urged India to "cooperate in the Canadian probe" into the killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar ahead of the key meeting between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, media reports said. When asked by the reporters, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller reiterated Washington's stand saying as quoted by The Indian Express, "I dont want to preview the conversations he (Blinken) will have in that meeting (with Jaishankar), but as weve made clear, weve raised this; we have engaged with our Indian counterparts on this and encouraged them to cooperate with the Canadian investigation, and we continue to encourage them to cooperate." Jaishankar and Blinken are set to meet at the Foggy Bottom headquarters of the State Department on Thursday afternoon as per the US time. India-Canada relationship deteriorates India's relationship with Canada deteriorated after Trudeau on September 18 alleged New Delhi's involvement in the killing of Khalistani separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June in British Columbia. Trudeau was quoted as saying by media, "As I said on Monday, there are credible reasons to believe that agents of the Government of India were involved in the killing of a Canadian on Canadian soil." He said, "There is something of utmost foundational importance in a country's rule of law in a world where international rules-based order matters." PM Modi with Justin Trudeau during one of their earlier meetings/ courtesy: PIB He asked the Indian government to 'work' with Canada to ensure full transparency and accountability in the matter. India dismissed Ottawa's allegations about Indian agents' involvement in the murder of the Khalistani terrorist as "politically driven". MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said there was a "degree of prejudice" in Canada's allegations. "They have made allegations and taken action on them. To us, it seems that these allegations by the government of Canada are primarily politically driven." While New Delhi outrightly rejected Trudeau's allegation, calling it "absurd" and "motivated", the relations between the two countries have worsened with Canada and India expelling a senior diplomat each. India has also issued a travel advisory for Indian nationals, particularly students, in Canada and also those contemplating travel to the North American country, asking them to exercise utmost caution. Jaishankar indirectly jabs at Canada at the UN Amid the Indo-Canadian diplomatic row and continued tension with China, India Tuesday said "political convenience" cannot be the basis for a response to terrorism or extremism, and called on the global community to respect the rules-based order and the UN Charter. Addressing the UN General Assembly, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called on nations to not interfere in the internal affairs of others. Jaishankar's remarks have been interpreted as a jab at both Canada and China. "... nor must we countenance that political convenience determines responses to terrorism, extremism and violence. Similarly, respect for territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs cannot be exercises in cherry-picking. When reality departs from the rhetoric, we must have the courage to call it out... without genuine solidarity, there can never be real trust," he said. "A fair, equitable and democratic order will surely emerge, once we all put our minds to it. And for a start, that means ensuring that rule makers do not subjugate rule takers. After all, rules will work only when they apply equally to all," he said, taking a jibe at the Western world. Who was Hardeep Singh Nijjar? Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canada-based pro-Khalistan leader, was shot dead in Surrey city, British Columbia province in June. He had been a leading figure in the Khalistan separatist movement and was closely associated with Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). Nijjar was also serving as the president of Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey. Nijjar, a member of the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), was a wanted terrorist for his involvement in various acts of violence and subversive activities. Photo courtesy: UNI Srinagar/UNI: Police busted a gang of burglars by arresting seven accused and recovering stolen property worth lakhs within 24 hours of crime in Jammu and Kashmirs Kulgam district, police sources said on Thursday. Police said after receiving several complaints about burglary in the areas of Police Station Kulgam, a case was registered under relevant sections of the law. A special team of police was constituted to investigate the incidents of burglary, police said, and during the course of the investigation, one suspected person identified as Ayan Shameem, a resident of Bijnoor, Uttar Pradesh, at present residing in Rangrezpora, Kulgam, was called for questioning. During questioning, he disclosed that he, along with six other persons identified as Shahid Sheikh of Delhi presently residing in Srinagar, Farman Ahmad of Bijnoor, UP, Mohd Amir and Bhar Alam, both from UP, Mudasir Habib of Shalipora Sopore, and Shabir Ahmad Bakerwal, a juvenile, committed the crime. All the accused persons were brought to Kulgam police station, where they confessed that they were involved in multiple burglaries and were subsequently arrested, police said. The investigating team was also able to recover stolen property worth lakhs on their instance. The investigation into the matter is in progress as more arrests and recoveries are expected, the police said. Image Credit: twitter.com/msswaminathan New Delhi: Eminent Indian agricultural scientist M.S. Swaminathan, who played a pivotal role in India's Green Revolution, passed away on Thursday at the age of 98. Hailed as the "Father of Economic Ecology" by the United Nations Environment Programme, Swaminathan's trailblazing contributions in the 1960s and 1970s brought about a revolution in Indian agriculture. This transformation averted widespread famine and led India to attain self-sufficiency in food production. A commemorative postage stamp India released on 17 July 1968 marking the 'Wheat Revolution' Swaminathan's pioneering initiatives included the development and introduction of high-yield varieties of wheat and rice, leading to a substantial increase in food grain production throughout India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow at his demise. While mourning his passing, Modi acknowledged that during a crucial juncture in the nations history, Swaminathan's groundbreaking work in agriculture positively impacted the lives of millions and guaranteed food security for our nation. On social media platform X, Modi wrote: "Beyond his revolutionary contributions to agriculture, Dr. Swaminathan was a powerhouse of innovation and a nurturing mentor to many. His unwavering commitment to research and mentorship has left an indelible mark on countless scientists and innovators." Deeply saddened by the demise of Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji. At a very critical period in our nations history, his groundbreaking work in agriculture transformed the lives of millions and ensured food security for our nation. pic.twitter.com/BjLxHtAjC4 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 28, 2023 I will always cherish my conversations with Dr. Swaminathan. His passion to see India progress was exemplary. His life and work will inspire generations to come. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti. Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 28, 2023 His innovative approach to agriculture, which fused modern scientific techniques with a profound understanding of local conditions and requirements, not only uplifted the lives of numerous low-income farmers but also played a significant role in the nation's economic advancement. In recognition of his monumental contributions, Swaminathan was honoured with the inaugural World Food Prize in 1987. Swaminathan (right) with A. K. Sharma (left), considered as the father of Indian cytology, in 2013 at the 100th Indian Science Congress. He used the prize funds to establish the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation in Chennai, underscoring his dedication to sustainable and inclusive agricultural practices. Swaminathan was also awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1971 and the Albert Einstein World Science Award in 1986. Beyond his significant contributions in India, Swaminathan wielded influence on the global stage, playing a crucial role in various international agricultural and environmental initiatives. Time magazine acknowledged him as one of the 20 most influential Asians of the 20th century, underscoring his extensive influence. Swaminathan is survived by his wife, Mina, and their three daughters: Soumya, Madhura, and Nitya. With his passing, India bids farewell to a defining figure in its agricultural legacy, marking the end of an extraordinary era. (Inside image courtesy: wikipedia.org) Photo Courtesy: Pixabay New Delhi: The official website of the Canadian Armed Forces faced disruption as it was briefly deactivated on Wednesday, media reports said. The Telegraph reported that the website was attacked by a hacking group called 'Indian Cyber Force', who claimed responsibility on X (formerly Twitter) for the cyberattack. The site went down around noon but was cleared after some time, Daniel Le Bouthillier, head of media relations at the Department of National Defence told The Globe and Mail. In a post on X, the Indian Cyber Force declared that the "Canadian Airforce Website has been taken down" and posted a screenshot of the disrupted website with the error message. On September 22, the group aired its unhappiness with the Canadian government's "allegations and anti-India politics." This cyberattack on the Canadian Air Forces site came in the midst of a diplomatic faceoff between India and Canada following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, last week, accused India of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing. India strongly rejected the allegations with a strong statement, calling them "absurd" and motivated. It also asked Canada to crack down on terrorists and anti-India elements active on its soil and halted visa services for Canadians. In a challenging economic climate, Australian restaurants are adapting by diversifying their revenue streams. They are bottling up sauces, offering cooking classes, and even creating merchandise lines to generate income from multiple sources. In addition to these new revenue avenues, Squares Future of Restaurants report reveals that Australian restaurants are embracing technology to enhance efficiency and cope with rising operating costs and staffing shortages. Simultaneously, they are seeking support from their local communities. This report, commissioned by Square and conducted by YouGov, surveyed restaurant owners, hospitality workers, and consumers, providing insights into the current state and sentiments within the industry. While Australian restaurants display remarkable adaptability and resilience, they face several challenges, including customer retention (32%), escalating operating costs (32%), and difficulties in hiring, training, and retaining staff (31%). However, an impressive 97 percent of those surveyed believe that technology will play a crucial role in overcoming these hurdles. Beyond Traditional Dining As economic challenges persist, restaurateurs are exploring innovative ways to bolster their resilience. Driven by consumer interest (45%), economic incentives (40%), and fierce competition (39%), restaurants are branching out into new product and service offerings outside of their core dining experiences. One such example is Lox in a Box, a bagel shop in Sydney, which has introduced a line of merchandise to complement its primary business. Candy Berger, co-owner of Lox in a Box, explains, Merchandise is a creative outlet for us. We initially started with branded t-shirts for our staff, but then customers expressed interest in buying them. So, we expanded to include shirts, Lox In A Box hats, and even sox in a box, which we thought was fun! It sold quite well. Consumers are receptive to this trend, with over half (55%) of millennial customers reporting that they have purchased items other than food or drinks from restaurants in the past year. Approximately one in three (29%) specifically bought merchandise during the same period. Restaurants Powered by Technology The era of using pen and paper in restaurants is fading, as technology adoption becomes increasingly prevalent. Despite the perceived barrierssuch as financial investment and transitional adjustments95 percent of restaurants acknowledge the benefits of investing in software and automation technology. An analysis of data from Square and the Australian Business Registry reveals that restaurants utilizing Square for Restaurants technology were approximately three times more likely to survive compared to the industry average. Beyond enhancing resilience, technology is facilitating restaurant growth. Half of restaurateurs generating $1 million or more in annual revenue believe that automation aids in customer acquisition (34%) and streamlining online ordering both in-house and through delivery apps (24%). Mo Saad, co-owner of Fricken Chicken in Canberra, emphasizes, Working smarter, not harder, is a driving force for us. Automation and technology have streamlined our operations, reduced wait times, increased productivity, and ensured more personalized customer interactions and overall satisfaction. Colin Birney, Head of Business Development for Square in Australia, adds, When we discuss restaurant reinvention and technological adoption, we arent talking about replacing chefs with robots. Instead, were focusing on using technology to achieve incremental yet significant improvements. For example, waitstaff sending orders directly from the tables side may save only a few seconds each time, but as service continues and more tables are served, these efficiency gains accumulate. These efficiencies translate into more tables covered per employee, serving more customers, and ultimately, business growth. Technology helps uncover both small and substantial wins. A Focus on Community Engagement Communities have played a vital role in supporting restaurants during challenging times. A restaurant serves as more than just a place to dineits a space for socializing, work, relaxation, and escape. For regular patrons, it can become a special place that bridges the gap between home and workplace. In fact, 21 percent of consumers emphasize the importance of an atmosphere that fosters a sense of home when choosing a restaurant. Building a sense of community is a key strategy for restaurant owners to maintain resilience amid economic downturns. An impressive 90 percent of restaurant owners attest to the helpfulness (38%) or even instrumental role (51%) that community support has played in their success. Establishing personal connections by knowing customers names, orders, and details about their lives pays off in the long run. Notably, 58 percent of consumers rely on recommendations from friends and family when seeking new restaurants or cafes to visit. Earlier this year, Square partnered with OpenTable to give restaurant wait-staff the ability to better personalise service based on diners unique preferences to create exceptional experiences. One of the first restaurants in Australia to benefit from the Square and OpenTable integration was Byron Bay-based, vegan restaurant No Bones. Square and OpenTable are our best friends: having them talking to each other makes our life so much easier, but also has a huge positive impact on our diners said Lili Woollacott, Manager at No Bones. Dining experience is so important to us and having all our dining data in one place no matter where it comes from means that we get to delight anyone that eats with us. Whether thats about knowing where they are in their dining journey and improving the flow of diners through the restaurant, or knowing particular customers preferences and creating bespoke experiences for them. It builds loyalty and keeps them coming back! This year will continue to hold a lot of change for the industry. By diversifying core offerings, adapting to customer and employee needs, leveraging technology to work smarter, and engaging with the community, restaurateurs can better prepare for future challenges while creating a more resilient and efficient business. More on the Square study here. Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Image Credit: Pixabay Ujjain: The auto-driver who was arrested for allegedly raping a 12-year-old girl in Madhya Pradesh's Ujjain tried to escape when police took him to recreate the crime at the crime site, media reports said. The auto-driver, identified as Bharat Soni, was nabbed earlier on Thursday while three others were held. He got injured as he attempted to escape from the police, the report said citing sources. Inspector Ajay Kumar from Mahakal Police Station in Ujjain reported that Bharat Soni incurred injuries to his arms and legs while attempting to flee from the authorities present at the crime scene. "Today, we reached the spot to recreate the scene of the crime and recover the clothes worn by the girl. Sensing an opportunity, Bharat Soni tried to escape. Police personnel chased him and caught him. During this, he fell on the cement road and received injuries to his arms and legs," Kumar was quoted as saying by India Today. The Superintendent of Ujjain Police stated that Soni resisted the police officials present at the location and attempted to escape. In the scuffle, two police officials also sustained injuries. Bharat Soni is currently undergoing treatment at the Civil Hospital in Ujjain. According to the report, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said Bharat Soni would be given the "strictest punishment". "We will leave no stone unturned in getting him punished...Such criminals are not fit to be a part of society. He has injured the soul of Madhya Pradesh. She is my daughter, daughter of Madhya Pradesh. We will care about her," he added. Police said the girl belonged to Satna and came to Ujjain in an auto at Jeevan Kheri. The passenger seat of the autorickshaw had blood stains and a forensic examination of the vehicle has been initiated, according to the report. The police stated that another auto driver will face charges for failing to report the incident to the authorities, it added. An FIR was registered at the Mahakal Police Station after a video of the girl wandering helplessly on the streets of Ujjain semi-naked and bleeding went viral on social media. File image of S Jaishankar meeting Antony Blinken in US State Department/courtesy: UNI Washington/IBNS: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar Thursday met US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington and discussed measures to enhance the bilateral ties between the two countries. The meeting comes at a time when the diplomatic ties between India and Canada have worsened over the killing of a Khalistani separatist. "Good to be back here. And we, of course, had the prime minister here this summer. Thanks to the US for all the support to the G20 Summit," S Jaishankar told the media in the presence of Blinken ahead of the meeting held at the State Department. Blinken said he had "very good discussions" over the last few weeks including the one at the G20 and on the margins of the UN General Assembly session in New York. He said he was looking forward to his discussions with the Indian counterpart. Jaishankar's meeting with Blinken was scheduled much before the crisis with Canada broke out. According to reports, the US has been urging India to cooperate in the Canadian investigation into the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia early this year. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has alleged that the Indian government was behind the killing of Hardeep Nijjar on June 18. India, which designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020, has rejected the allegations calling them "absurd" and "motivated". Photo courtesy: UNI Jerusalem/UNI: Five people, all in a family, were killed Wednesday in a shooting in an Arab town in northern Israel, the latest in a wave of violence sweeping through Arab communities across the country. Israeli police said in a statement that five people were shot dead in a house in Basmat Tab'un, a Bedouin town in northern Israel. The victims were identified by Israel's state-owned Kan TV as two teen brothers, a woman in her 40s and her 25-year-old son, and another male relative. The woman's husband, a 49-year-old man, was moderately injured and needed hospital care. The shooter or shooters fled the scene, prompting searches by the Israeli security forces. "A red line was crossed here," police chief Yaakov Shabtai told reporters at the scene. "The police will do everything to find the killers," he added. Previous incidents of such shootings have often revolved around conflicts between organized crime syndicates. At least 188 individuals from the Arab community in Israel have been killed in violence since the beginning of 2023, according to the Abraham Initiatives, a group advocating for equal rights for the Arab minority in Israel. This number nearly doubles the count of victims during similar periods in previous years. Arab leaders have accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government of neglecting the fight against crime in Arab society. Arab citizens of Israel frequently experience discrimination, poverty, neglected infrastructure, and high levels of crime, according to the Abraham Initiatives. Photo courtesy : Unsplash Bangkok: Thai police have arrested four people and confiscated over 15 million pills of methamphetamine and other illegal drugs worth 300 million baht in what they say is one of the biggest drug busts of the year, media reported. Four people were arrested in connection with the seizure, which included 420 kilograms (926 lb) of crystal methamphetamine as well as heroin at a home in Nakhon Pathom province, north of the capital Bangkok, reported Reuters. The incoming police chief said the drugs were made in a neighboring country and had a total street value of 300 million baht. "This is one of the largest drug storage facilities in the middle of Thailand, in a community area," Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong told reporters, according to the report. The Golden Triangle region, where Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos meet, has a long-standing history of drug production and is now a major hub for the illegal production of amphetamine-like stimulants, particularly methamphetamine. The United Nations reported that synthetic drug trafficking is on the rise in East and Southeast Asia, with large amounts of methamphetamine still coming from the region with distribution networks spreading to Japan, New Zealand, and other countries. In a nation where its 'secularism' has come under increasing scrutiny, this village in West Bengal stands as a shining example of a place where religions can exist in harmony. Welcome to Kiriteshwari, which the Centre's Ministry of Tourism has recently selected as the Best Tourism Village in India. The village beat 795 applications received from 31 states and Union Territories to bag the honour, and now, tourists have started visiting the place. Murshidabad District Magistrate Rajarshi Mitra said that the award has been given considering the immense potential of the place to grow into a tourism hub. Where is Kiriteshwari village located? Kiriteshwari village is located in Murshidabad district of West Bengal, around 20 km from the district headquarters in Berhampur. Murshidabad disrict/ FB The village has a little more than 1,200 voters whose main occupation is farming. Known as Kiritkona, the village was named after the Kiriteshwari temple, one of the 'Shakti peeths'. Legend has it that the upper part of goddess Sati's skull had fallen here. How the village is an example of communal harmony At Kiriteshwari village, a combination of Buddhist, Muslim and Hindu architectural styles can be seen in the temple roof of the 300-year-old Kiriteshwari temple. The design of the 'garbha griha' (sanctum sanctorum), where a black stone is worshipped as the goddess, also reflects Hindu, Buddhist and Muslim architecture. Kiriteshwari temple at Murshidabad, West Bengal/ X The temple committee of the Kiriteshwari temple has members from the Muslim community, and they participate actively in various rituals related to the Hindu religion and culture. The Muslims have also given a piece of land to the Hindus since a portion of a temple was there. Sirajul Islam, a member of the Kiriteshwari Temple Committee, said, "My grandfather wanted to donate a piece of land for the temple and that was given according to his wish. The paperwork was completed around two years ago." 62-year-old Islam has been taking part in temple rituals since he was in his early 20s. A grand feast is organised on the day of Ashtami during the Durga Puja festival every year, and 7,000 to 8,000 people, including many Muslim families, participate in it, Islam said. What lies in the future for the best tourism village After the village received the honour last week, tourists from other areas have started coming. Kiriteshwari temple/ X A tourist from Kolkata, Madan Mohan Mitra, said, "I have heard about the temple earlier. But the zeal to visit the place increased after it bagged the Centre's award a few days ago. I liked the place." Villagers Hemanta Mondal, Paban Das and Uttam Das, who run small shops selling puja items near the temple, feel their lives are about to change in the coming future as the award will bring more tourists. "We are happy to hear about the award, but a lot of infrastructure development is required to boost tourism. We will need lodges, a hospital and a police station," the priest said. For more on news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. The construction of dry bulk ships has recently been accelerated, with Greek shipowners taking a leading role in the agreements of the last few days.Initially, Diana Shipping, headed by Greek shipowners returning to bulk carriers - Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will be attending thethat is hosted by Malta on Friday. No fewer than 333 million children across the world live in abject poverty, a report by the World Bank, done in conjunction with the United Nations International Children Emergency Fund, UNICEF, has stated. The report titled Global Trends in Child Monetary Poverty noted that most of the affected children are in Africa, Southeast Asia, Latin America among others. Speaking on the development, Luis-Felipe Lopez-Calva, the Global Director for Poverty and Equity, World Bank, said, A world where 333 million children live in extreme poverty deprived not only of basic needs but also dignity, opportunity or hope is simply intolerable. It is more critical than ever that all children have a clear pathway out of poverty through equitable access to quality education, nutrition, health, and social protection, as well as safety and security. This report should be a stark reminder that we have no time to lose in the fight against poverty and inequality, and that children must be foremost in our efforts. The report was based on three international poverty lines: $2.15 (extreme poverty), $3.65 (lower middle income), and $6.85 (upper middle income), and took into consideration developments from 2013 to 2022. The estimates show that: The extreme child poverty rate was reduced from 20.7 percent to 15.9 percent between 2013 and 2022. While 49.2 million children were lifted out of extreme poverty, this was about 30 million less than projected in the absence of COVID-19-related disruptions. The extreme child poverty estimate in 2022 (15.9 percent) is on par with the child poverty rate in 2019, indicating approximately three years of lost progress. READ MORE: Reduce Your Borrowing From CBN World Bank Tells FG The analysis contains records from 10.4 million individuals from 147 countries, taken from the 2022 spring version of the Global Monitoring Database (GMD) with 2019 as a base year. The GMD is a collection of globally harmonized household survey data compiled by the Data for Goals group of the World Banks Poverty and Equity Global Practice. Poverty estimates for 2020, 2021 and 2022 have been nowcastedthat is, gross domestic product (GDP) growth rates have been used to forecast household incomes, assuming all households experience equal consumption growth in percentage terms. The international poverty lines were updated in 2022. The three poverty lines are: $2.15 (extreme poverty), $3.65 (lower middle income) and $6.85 (upper middle income). Luxury sintered stone brand Vasta Stone is captivating audiences at Cersaie 2023 in Italy. Cersaie 2023, the world's premier event for construction materials and design, began on September 25 and will take place over five days in Bologna, Italy. As one of the distinguished exhibitors, Vasta Stone's presence promises an unforgettable experience for global leaders, architects, designers, and enthusiasts alike. Vasta Stone's innovative booth design "A Gateway to Infinite Possibilities". Photo courtesy of Vasta Stone Located in Hall 36, Vasta Stone's booth is a beacon of creativity. At its core lies a tunnel, adorned with mirrors reflecting Vasta Stone's creative vision - a portal to the future of design. "We craft experiences that go beyond mere product presentations. As visitors journey through this immersive tunnel, guided by enchanting LED lights, they embark on a captivating voyage of discovery," a brand representative said. "Breaking All Limitations" is the theme and spirit Vasta Stone brings to the exhibition". Photo courtesy of Vasta Stone "With each step, they bear witness to the boundless possibilities of sintered stone, immersing themselves ever deeper into a realm where innovation reigns supreme." According to the spokesperson, participation at Cersaie 2023 goes beyond mere product display; it is a resounding declaration of intent for Vasta Stone and represents the pinnacle of Vietnamese craftsmanship. "Vietnam's journey in this industry serves as a testament to its ability to surpass expectations and redefine possibilities. By positioning ourselves as leaders in innovation and craftsmanship from Vietnam, we not only showcase our brand but also contribute to reshaping perceptions about the origin of high-quality materials," the representative added. Vasta Stone's theme of "Breaking All Limitations" embodies dedication to innovation in the construction materials industry, a message resonating strongly with architects, designers, and industry professionals attending the event. The brand's focus on craftsmanship and sustainability also aligns seamlessly with the industry's shift towards eco-friendly materials and processes. Establishing global presence and collaboration is one of the main targets of Vasta Stone. Photo courtesy of Vasta Stone Vasta Stone's presence among distinguished exhibitors at Cersaie 2023 underscores its commitment to establishing a global presence and competing on the international stage. It is a unique platform to connect with industry leaders and potential clients. "We cordially invite you to step into our world at Vasta Stone's booth during Cersaie 2023. Imagination becomes reality, limits are shattered, and the future eagerly awaits your discovery," the representative said. Vasta Stone is one of the first luxury sintered stone brands in Vietnam, with a passion for innovation, sustainability, and excellence. The brand's commitment to delivering the highest quality sintered stone products, backed by a team of skilled artisans, has made it a trusted and reputable name in the industry. Click here for more information about Vasta Stone and participation in Cersaie 2023. The Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command, has intercepted live endangered species of African Grey Parrots, Green Parrots and a hawk with a combined value of about N6,859,832. Comptroller Timi Bomodi, Customs Area Controller, made this known on Wednesday. According to him, the seizure was based on credible intelligence. The animals were intercepted at the Gbaji checkpoint en route Benin Republic. READ ALSO: Not All Land Borders Are Re-Opened Acting Customs CG, Adeniyi He said, These animals were intercepted by our officers at about 4 am today; we got the intelligence that they were being conveyed in a luxurious bus all the way from Kaduna to Lagos, with the intention to take them out of the country to sell. As you may be aware, this is an illicit trade of endangered species, they are valued outside the country and we have individuals that are ready to go through a lot of risks to smuggle these birds. Bomodi restated the commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service to curb the menace of illicit trade in the country while also noting that two suspects were arrested in connection with the seizure. Part of the responsibilities of the Nigeria Customs Service as a signatory to the convention on illicit trade in endangered species is to ensure trade like this does not continue and we are hell-bent on seeing that things of this nature are not circulated. We already have two suspects in our custody, and the normal procedure for activating seizures of this nature with special regard to how these defendants will be treated is already in place, he emphasized. The seized animals were handed over to the Controller, Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Services, Sanusi Magashi. The Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Services will temporarily safeguard and nurture the animals before releasing them to the national park. The Department of State Services (DSS) has reportedly arrested Ibrahim Musa, the former spokesman for the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), also known as the Shiite. It was gathered that Musa, the Editor of Almizan Hausa Newspaper, was arrested on Wednesday while he was on his way to Medina, Saudi Arabia. In a statement issued by an official of the IMN, Abdullahi Usman, stated that no reason has been provided by the authorities for Musas arrest, and called for his immediate release. Usman revealed that Musa was known for his role in the call for the release of Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky who was arrested by government in 2015 in Zaria, Kaduna State. He said: Ibrahim Musa, who was with a family member Binta Sulaiman, was abducted by the Nigerias secret police, DSS, at the Aminu Kano International Airport early morning on Wednesday while on his way to Saudi Arabia for the lesser Hajj (Umrah). READ MORE: Two Injured As Security Personnel Attack Shiites Members, Arrest Others In Abuja Meanwhile, no reasons have been provided by the authorities for his arrest even as he is known for his role in the call for the release of Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky who was arrested at the wake of a clampdown and extrajudicial killing of about 1000 of his followers by the Nigerian government in 2015 in Zaria, Kaduna state. He was part of the campaign that got the Federal High Court judgement ordering the release and compensation of Sheikh Zakzaky, the leader of Islamic Movement in Nigeria, for which it is believed the security agents who lost in the case are displeased. Human rights organizations, especially the Amnesty International (AI), had pressured the immediate past Governor of Kaduna state, Malam Nasiru Elrufai to publicly announce that his government had buried about 350 people killed in the extrajudicial killing in a mass grave at Mando village in Kaduna. Ibrahim Musa is known to have been active in speaking against the acts of state terrorism, extrajudicial killings and marginalization of a minority group of Muslims by the Nigerian Government under President Muhammadu Buhari. The All Progressives Congress (APC) Elders Council in Bayelsa State, on Wednesday, alleged that the State Governor, Douye Diri is trying to use the influence of Vice-President Kashim Shettima and Senator Adams Oshiomhole to secure his re-election bid. According to the elders, Diri is planning to invite high-ranking national leaders of the party to inaugurate some of his projects in the State. The APC elders said they intercepted Diris programme of events listing Shettima and Oshiomhole as party leaders he had penciled down for invitation. While describing the projects as substandard and his move a desperate manipulative campaign strategy, the group claimed that Diri had already packaged billions of Bayelsas tax payers money as honorarium to lure the Party leaders to Bayelsa to score some cheap political points. Speaking via a statement signed by its secretary, Borchson Yengizifa, the APC elders claimed that the Governor wanted to create an impression that the APC leaders were sent by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to attend the event. They further advised Diri to discard the strategy, adding that the leaders and Tinubu had not hidden their support for the governorship candidate of the APC, Timipre Sylva. This ill-conceived idea is to create an impression that these APC leaders were sent by our very dear President, H.E Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which isnt true. READ ALSO: Gov. Sanwo-Olu Directs Contractor To Deliver Red Rail Line Project By December President Tinubu hasnt hidden his support for our candidate Chief Timipre Sylva and the APC in Bayelsa State. Recently at the Villa, President Tinubu lifted up Sylvas hands and endorsed him for Governor in front of cameras. So this manipulative move by Diri to bribe some APC leaders will fail. In his nearly four years as governor, he commissioned nothing. And now, very few weeks to the guber election he is inviting our party leaders, promising them huge sums of money to come and commission projects. We are certain none of our leaders, especially the Vice-President, will fall for this ruse and accept Diris Greek Gifts. Diri is a living witness of the widespread support the APC enjoys from our people so he is trying to reap where he did not sow. We beat him by more than half of the votes in 2019, we also trounced his candidate Alhaji Atiku Abubakar in that years presidential election and did a repeat performance in 2023 when our dear President Sen. Bola Tinubu and his amiable vice-president, Kashim Shettima, emerged victorious at the polls against Diris Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar. So Diris fear for our party stems from the fact that he has become a veteran in the business of losing to APC. We will also notify the anti-graft agencies about the plans of spending billions of Bayelsa tax payers monies on so called logistics for VIPs. How can logistics for commissioning be bigger than the projects to be commissioned? . Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, on Wednesday, gave the contractor in charge of the multimillion-dollar Red Rail Line project the directive to complete the project by December 2023. This is as the Governor revealed that the opening of the Yaba and Ikeja-Along Flyovers, a project component of the Red Rail Line, will take place in October 2023. He also gave traders along the Agege train line a two-day deadline to vacate their spaces or be compelled to do so as the government would no longer condone lawlessness. Accompanied by his Deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, the governor made the remarks on Wednesday, when they led some members of the State Executive Council on an inspection tour of infrastructure components of the ongoing construction of Red Rail Line projects across stations. While the red rail line has eight major stations Agbado, Iju, Agege, Ikeja, Mushin, Yaba, Ebute Metta and Iddo/Oyingbo, the trains will use the tracks built by the Federal Government. It will take a minimum of 1,000 passengers per ride when in full operation. The first port of call of the project tour which lasted over six hours, was the Lateef Jakande Station, located at Agbado area, within Lagos-Ogun States boundary. According to the Governor, more bridges will be built in conjunction with the Nigeria Railway Corporation, NRC. Sanwo-Olu who reiterated that Government is on track to deliver the project before the end of the year, disclosed that Phase 2 of the Blue Line has been awarded, and hopefully would be completed faster than the first phase, Marina- Mile-2 route. We have seen the state of infrastructure on our Red Rail Line corridor, and we are impressed. READ ALSO: Gunmen Invade Kwara Community Kidnap Mother, Kill Son We are also on track to deliver the project before the end of the year. However, there is still work to be done, especially clearing of illegal structures around the tracks and general clean up of the axis. Red line is also on track and you see that a lot of citizens are excited that they are waiting for us to be able to commission it, but we cannot take any safety measure for granted everything must be ready and ready to go and Is must be dotted and Ts must be crossed and thats why I have taken time to come out today again and give all the contractors marching orders to push forward and go and start cleaning up, and doing completion. While some of the bridges are completed, some are about 98 per cent ready, and we will start opening them to vehicular movement from October before the train starts work officially. We will also step up security enforcement to prevent intruders from accessing the railway corridor. We have spoken to traders and other illegal occupants to vacate because we have to ensure security of passengers. Change is an attitude and a way of life; people cannot remain on the tracks. We might also consider erecting concrete barricades as a security measure. We also want passengers to have a total lifestyle experience within the train stations, that is why they are large enough to accommodate a variety of ventures. The Ikeja station is the largest in Africa and even Europe because we want it to be a hub of mega businesses. Passengers can have a total lifestyle experience connecting the train ride to the Bus Rapid Transit ride as the red line is also accessible with the cowry card. Sanwo-Olu, also urged passengers taking the Blue Line to exercise patience while boarding, appealing to them to be orderly and allow passengers to disembark before boarding as that is the normal procedure. The governor, during the assessment tour, assured the mammoth crowd who thronged various stations, particularly at Agbado Station, of his administrations determination to make the project which is at over 95 percent completion, a reality as scheduled. Unknown gunmen on Tuesday, invaded the Alalubosa community, Okoolowo, Asa Local government area of Kwara State, killing one Abdul Rasheed Alafara, while two of his siblings were shot dead before abducting their mother. It was gathered that the kidnappers, about six and armed with AK-47s, stormed the community and began shooting sporadically as residents sitting outside during the period ran for safety. Alafara was reportedly shot in the leg before the gunmen macheted him to death while trying to escape. INFORMATION NIGERIA learnt that two siblings of the deceased, Semiat Mukaila and Abdullahi, are receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital for gunshot wounds. READ MORE: Firemen Recover 43-Year-Old Mans Corpse From Fish Pond In Kwara In an interview with Daily Trust, Abdullahi said the kidnappers operated for about 30 minutes before the vigilantes confronted them and killed one during an exchange of gunfire. The victim further called on the government to equip the communitys vigilantes to improve the states security situation. He said: They abducted our mother, killed my brother and seriously injured two other siblings. Our father, who is the Magaji, escaped. But it was the tes who responded swiftly to our call that shot oad and rescued our mother. We called the police around 10:00 pm on Tuesday but they only came around 10:00 am today (Wednesday) several hours later. Confirming the incident, the spokesman of the state police command, Ajayi Okasanmi, said a team of policemen were already at the scene. The Plateau State Police Command on Thursday confirmed the killing of a commercial driver in Jos, the State capital, by persons suspected to be hoodlums. The commercial driver, identified as Fwinbe Thomas, reportedly grazed a motorcycle rider with his vehicle while driving home after the close of work. However, some hoodlums who were angered by the incident were said to have chased after the driver in their motorcycles and attacked him along Tudun Wada Ring Road in Jos, leading to his death. READ ALSO: First Class Graduate Reportedly Beaten To Death For Stealing Bread In Bayelsa The spokesman for the Plateau State Police Command, Alabo Alfred, condemned the action of the hoodlums in a statement on Thursday while confirming the death of the driver. The statement read in part, The Commissioner of Police, Plateau State Police Command, CP Okoro Julius Alawari, is miffed with and totally condemns the unlawful killing of one Mr Fwinbe Thomas who was found lying in a pool of his own blood along Tudun Wada Ring Road, Hwolshe in Jos. Sequel to a report of the incident by a credible informant on 25/09/2023 at about 2230hrs, the Police Patrol Team attached to Anglo-Jos Division swiftly rushed to the scene of the cruel incident where they found the victim lying in a pool of his own blood beside a damaged Suzuki Mini Bus with Reg. No.: KWK 536 XA, with multiple injuries on his head. The victim is suspected to have been cruelly beaten to death by some hoodlums, suspected to be commercial motorcyclists popularly known as Okada Riders whose operation in Jos Metropolis/Bukuru metropolis is illegal. Photographs of the victim were taken, the vehicle was towed to the station and the body of the victim was taken to the Plateau Specialist Hospital where he was confirmed dead by a medical doctor. The corpse has been deposited at the hospitals morgue for autopsy. The statement assured that efforts were ongoing to apprehend the killers of Fwinbe Thomas. It added, The commissioner appeals for calm as the police is already on top of the situation. He assures Plateau residents that the perpetrators of the dastardly act will not evade justice as there is no hiding place for evil-doers in the State. The Plateau Police boss also sends a stern warning to executors of Jungle Justice to desist from such lawlessness as the Command under his watch will not spare any person found culpable of such inhuman act. He emphasised the need for citizens to allow law enforcement agencies to take charge of such cases instead of taking laws into their hands. Investigation into this case is still ongoing and further development will be made available to the public in due course. The CP further uses this medium to inform the general public that the ban on the use of motorcycle popularly known as Okada within Jos Metropolis and Bukuru is still in force Nigerian hip-hop artiste, Tochukwu Ojogwu, popularly known as Odumodublvck, has said he wants to be like the reincarnation of legendary American rappers, DMX and 2Pac in Africa. He said he doesnt want to be stigmatised as just a Nigerian artist, stressing that his ambition is to be a global superstar. READ ALSO: I Almost Died Before Becoming Famous Rapper, Odumodublvck The Declan Rice crooner stated this shortly after signing a career-changing contract with the prominent American multinational record label, Def Jam Recordings, in the US recently. Odumodublvck said, Back home in Nigeria, you have artists that are really stigmatised for using our cultural language. I dont want them (foreigners) to say, hes Nigerian and hes just Nigerian (artist). I want to be like the reincarnated DMXIf DMX and 2Pac were from Africa. The Kogi State chapter of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) on Wednesday accused the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) of state-sponsored terrorism. The accusation is coming ahead of the November 11 gubernatorial election. Director-General, Muritala Ajaka/Sam Abenemi campaign organisation, David Ijele, speaking via a news conference in Lokoja, said that the APC has subjected SDP and its supporters to various acts of intimidation by engaging in serious violence resulting in sporadic gunshots, arsons and disappearance of party supporters. The SDP furthered that the State Governor, Yahaya Bello would be calling for anarchy should they refuse to put an end to the intimidation of the SDP. I was in Kogi East last night, I could not sleep as a result of several gunshots from dusk to dawn throughout the town. Bello is calling for anarchy if this kind of terrorism did not stop. I dont know why all this. If you claim to have done well, you dont need to engage in intimidation of opposition for you to win an election. Its only a bad product that is difficult to sell, a good product will naturally sell itself. READ ALSO: 333m Children Live In Abject Poverty Globally World Bank We are calling on the Inspector-General of Police, President Tinubu who himself is also a product of the democratic process, to intervene in Kogi State affairs to avoid a breakdown of law and order before, during and even after the election because no one has a monopoly of violence. We are prepared and ready to put our lives on the line to right the wrongs of APC in Kogi, he said. Reacting, spokesman for the Usman Ododo/ Joel Oyibo campaign organisation, Kingsley Fanwo, said, We are a government and our priority is to protect all the people of Kogi State, irrespective of political leanings. He said that allegations without proof are as good as no allegations. As a government, our concern and responsibility are to create an enabling environment for all to pursue their normal businesses. The SDP is a nest of funny birds that cry by the pain of their losses rather than the action of anyone, Fanwo added. Abdullahi Ganduje, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has described Rabiu Kwankwaso, his predecessor in office as the Kano State Governor as a serial failure. Speaking in Abuja at the APCs national secretariat while hosting the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) 2023 governorship candidate, Haliru Dauda Jika, who formally defected to the APC, Ganduje posited that Kwankwaso has become a professional presidential election contestant in Nigeria. According to Ganduje, Kwankwaso is a selfish individual who specializes in deceiving people and is always first to jump boat when he doesnt get what he wants. Affirming that Jika made the right choice to dump the NNPP and return to the APC, Ganduje said: When I got the news that you were coming to see me in my house to discuss the way forward, I knew I was meeting a very formidable politician in the person of Senator Jika who is a household name in Bauchi state. He is returning to a party that is very progressive and focused when we look at where he was coming from. He is coming from a party that used to be a decent party and highly respected but was later hijacked and polluted by the kwankwasiya group. We are happy that the original NNPP is taking back its proper position and leaving the kwankwasiya group deserted and thrown out completely. The APC Chairman said Jika made the right choice to dump the NNPP and return to the APC. When I got the news that you were coming to see me in my house to discuss the way forward, I knew I was meeting a very formidable politician in the person of Senator Jika who is a household name in Bauchi State, he said. READ ALSO: Reps. Summon Ministry Officials Over For Rewarding Oyo Road Project Contract Without Terminating Earlier One Information Nigeria reports that the Kwankwasiyya group headed by the former Governor was forced to go into a sabbatical leave for eight years before it found its way back to Government House in Kano. The Kwankwasiya head who wears a red cap is the person who prefers to be a king in hell than be a servant in paradise. He specializes in deceiving people. He was first in PDP, came back to APC when it was formed. That was when the PDP merged with the legacy parties to form the APC. Instead of staying in APC because of his ambition, he decided to leave APC after failing to pick the presidential ticket to go back to the PDP. He could not stay there again when he failed to pick the ticket. He still went on his own to contest the presidential poll and was defeated twice. He is a professional contestant for presidential elections and would remain a professional failure. He loves himself so much. I am happy you have dumped the red cap . It is a very sensible action that you have taken, Ganduje submitted. The APC chairman promised Jika and all those who returned with him, inclusiveness in the Party ahead the 2027 polls. The Labour Party (LP) on Wednesday, endorsed the proposed strike of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (NLC). According to the leadership of the party, the presidency has been insensitive to the plight of Nigerian workers. Recall that the organized unions on Tuesday, threaten nationwide industrial action from October 3. The decision was reached by the unions following the failure of the President Tinubus led-administration to implement policies to alleviate the sufferings of the masses after the removal of fuel subsidy. The National President of NLC, Joe Ajaero after the 21-day ultimatum which ended last week, decried that none of the demands put before the Federal Government was addressed. NLC and the TUC are asking for wage awards, implementation of palliatives, tax exemptions and allowances to public sector workers and a review of the minimum wage. Meanwhile, Labour Party in its reaction to the proposed strike in a statement titled Workers strike: Labour Party identifies with Nigerian workers and released by its National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, lamented that Nigerian workers have shown enough patience and understanding. READ MORE: NLC, TUC Declare Nationwide Shut Down From October 3 He said: We have followed with keen interest, in the last four months, various meetings between Organised Labour and various government bodies including the president of the Senate, the presidency and the ministers of Labour as well as all the efforts made by the Labour leadership to get the government to understand the magnitude of sufferings its policies have thrown Nigerian workers into since the enthronement of this administration. We are not in any way surprised at the governments apparent indifference, insensitivity, intransigence, and recalcitrant posture towards the genuine demands of the Labour bodies because their usurpation of power was not sanctioned by both the workers and generality of Nigerians. Nigerians went to the polls with clear conviction of the government they wanted but this was denied them through institutional conspiracy. Today, Nigerian workers are being punished for taking a stand during the February 25 Presidential Election. Labour Party is also aware of the sordid conditions which workers, the majority of them being our members, are subjected to, where many go to the office on a Monday and are forced by the prevailing economic challenges to sleep in their offices all through to Friday before returning home. We are also using this medium to inform all our members and supporters to stock their homes with their necessary needs ahead of a long-drawn mass action until victory is ascertained. No retreat, no surrender. You are warmly invited to join all ECPM members for an extraordinary general assembly on 6 & 7 December in Brussels. We will be reviewing and voting the political program of ECPM for the Euro elections and the 2024-2029 mandate. Therefore, your presence is essential . Here are further details about the event, as well as extra information on what else is taking place in Brussels those days. Wednesday, 6th of December 7:30-10:00- The European Prayer Breakfast. Although not organised by ECPM, we highly encourage our members to take advantage of this opportunity to connect and network with fellow Christian politicians from all over Europe and beyond. This is preceded by a welcome dinner the night before. 10:00-11:30- From Radicalisation to Reconciliation: New Perspectives on Israeli- Palestinian Coexistence. Conference organized and hosted by MEP Bert-Jan Ruissen. Register here. 12:00-13:30- ECPM lunch in the European Parliament (for all ECPM members). 14:00- 18:00- Extraordinary edition of ECPM General Assembly, Part 1. European Parliament 18:30- 20:00- ECPM dinner in the European Parliament (for all ECPM members). Thursday, 7th of December 09:30- 12:30- Extraordinary edition of ECPM General Assembly, Part 2. Thon Hotel, Brussels 13:00- 14:00- Lunch at Thon Hotel 14:00- 15:00- Guided Walking Tour of the European Quarter of Brussels. Free and open to all ECPM members. Please note that ECPM has already reserved a block of rooms at Thon Hotel, which need to be confirmed by 17 November. Additionally, in order to gain access to the European Parliament, we need everyone to register. Therefore, we ask you kindly that you register for the General Assembly by 17 November at the latest . We will be closing down registrations by end of business day that Friday. Looking forward to seeing you there! The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has said that it does not have any agreement with the government to suspend its planned strike. Recall that the organised labour comprising of the NLC and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) on Tuesday, slated the strike to commence from October 3. The unions announced that workers will proceed on indefinite strike over the governments failure to provide palliatives to cushion the effect of the removal of subsidy on petrol. The union added that the Federal Government has not invited the them or given any date to meet with the NLC over the proposed strike. READ MORE: Labour Party Hails NLC, TUC Over Proposed Strike NLC in a statement issued by its Head of Information and Public Affairs, Benson Upah, said: The press statement issued by the Director of Press, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Mr Olajide Oshundun on our proposed strike action and illegal occupation of the secretariat of the National Union of Road Transport Workers has been brought to our attention. We note some inconsistencies. Accordingly, we find it necessary to make clarifications. Firstly, we do not have any agreement with the government to suspend the planned strike action. Neither do we have any date for a meeting with the government that may lead to the suspension of the proposed strike. While we do not intend to demean or minimise the office of the Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment, this matter is beyond the Ministry. This should have been obvious to them during our most recent meeting. Secondly, while we appreciate the role played by the Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment, Barrister Simon Lalong in securing the release of the executives of the National Union of Road Transport Workers from unlawful/illegal police detention, we take exception to the Ministry describing these executives as factional leaders. They were lawfully elected into office. We still find it necessary to advise the police and those elements behind their travails to desist from this despicable and shameful conduct. They are advised to retrace their steps. If democracy is to be of meaning to us, then we should resist the urge or temptation for impunity. Enough is enough. The Pan Yoruba Socio-Political Group, Afenifere, has asked former President Olusegun Obasanjo, to apologise to Oyo traditional rulers for ridiculing them and Yoruba culture. The group while addressing the incident that happened on September 15, 2023, where Obasanjo ordered some traditional rulers to stand up and then sit down during a road commissioning in Oyo State hosted by Governor Seyi Makinde, said that the former Nigerian leader subjected those next in rank to the gods (igbakeji orisa) to ridicule. According to them, Obasanjos act as if a commander was giving orders to his troops, an attempt to ridicule the obaship traditional institution in Yorubaland. However, the group, demanded a public apology from Obasanjo for what transpired between him and the traditional rulers in Oyo State. Afenifere made this known in a communique issued at the end of the groups meeting which was held at Pa Reuben Fasorantis home in Akure, the Ondo state capital on Wednesday, September 27. The Communique reads: Afenifere was taken aback by the avoidable and unwarranted incident that took place at Iseyin, Oyo State on Friday, September 15, 2023, where former President Olusegun Obasanjo commanded Royal Fathers at the gathering to stand up (and after complying), were ordered to sit down. It was as though a military commander was giving orders to his troops. We Yorubas respect our traditional institutions, the arrowhead of which, are our traditional rulers, who, traditionally and spiritually, have acquired the status of deities. READ MORE: Soyinka Mocks Obasanjo For Ordering Oyo Monarchs To Stand Up (Video) Its not surprising that they are referred to as Igbakeji Orisa, in view of the attempt to ridicule the respected Obaship institution in Yorubaland, Afenifere hereby demands an unreserved Public Apology to Obas from former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Our tradition describes who we are. As such, no effort must be spared to prevent the rubishing of our noble tradition. In that wise, its hereby recommended that royal fathers are spared the trouble to stand up at public functions as obtained in the United Kingdom among others. The House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee investigating the 45km Ijebu-Igbo Ita Ibadan road in Oyo State has summoned officials of the federal Ministry of works to appear before it today, September 28. Information Nigeria reports that the summon is to explain controversies surrounding the re-award of the road project to another contractor without terminating an earlier contract. Kwamoti Laori, Chairman of the committee, at the resumed hearing of the investigation, said the probe panel would not hesitate to summon the Minister of Works if the officials fail to provide clarifications. Those summoned include the Director of Engineering, Highways, South -West; Director of Finance and legal departments. The Director, Adedamola Kuti, had told the committee during its inaugural sitting in September that the contract being handled by DC Engineering Ltd had been terminated since September 2022. READ ALSO: Air Force Neutralises IPOB/ESN Camps In Anambra, Imo He said it had been re-awarded to two other companies, while promising the lawmakers a copy of the termination letter within 72 hours. However, three weeks on, neither Kuti nor any official of the ministry of works was able to make a copy of the termination letter available to the committee. Executive Director of DC Engineering, Ade Adedeji, told the committee he did not receive any letter of termination of contract from the Ministry of Works. He said equipment and workers of the company were still on the project site, adding that the same ministry had certified their work in August 2023. Crypto businesses use Proof of Reserves (PoR) to affirm their reserves. This ensures that the trade or economic institutions reserves fit customers assets. Crypto merchants have faith in PoR to impenetrable their assets. Crypto companies use it to display their change and withdrawal support. A third-party auditor verifies a buying and selling platforms belongings and liabilities for the duration of PoR. The outcomes are public, ensuring exchange-owned reserves commonly guard clients digital assets. By displaying purchasers the place their monies are, PoR prevents liquidity crises. It uses blockchain science to audit crypto corporations except disclosing private data, preserving it secure. Understanding Proof Of Reserve Some people select custodial storage for crypto security, even if various selections exist. Customers can rapidly change houses on a centralized platform. The platform safeguards crypto asset personal keys. However, countless high-profile crypto-shape screw-ups have substantial doubts about custodians. PoR audits confirm a companys property fits investors. Auditing Process The third-party auditor calculates the crypto companys liabilities, which include purchaser deposits. The auditor additionally verifies the companys crypto. The organization makes use of non-public keys for all addresses to signal digitally. Finally, the auditor verifies that the assets whole charge exceeds obligations. Many exchanges use impartial consumer verification to extend transparency and reassure clients that preserved belongings protect their accounts. Customers get hold of leaf archives and a way to confirm the Merkle roots direction. PoR Issues PoR is precious for appraising a crypto companys capability to cowl its liabilities. It solely suggests the companys property at a unique factor and no longer mirrors ongoing steadiness changes. PoR solely suggests on-chain assets, no longer their starting place or whether or not they have been borrowed for the audit. Consider these hurdles while evaluating a crypto companys Proof of Reserves. Last Thoughts Reserve assets, such as crypto, supply company liquidity. They can be transformed into money for withdrawals or different commitments. Crypto businesses want PoR to impervious purchaser money and show liquidity using cryptographic verification. Due to accelerated regulatory scrutiny, any crypto alternate or custodian needs to get a proof-of-reserves audit. The methods incapacity to account for commercial enterprise tasks is a negative, but it nonetheless works to construct client belief in the companys operations. The United Nations Childrens Fund, (UNICEF) in Nigeria has raised alarm about the urgent need for widespread vaccination, concerning diphtheria disease in the country. INFORMATION NIGERIA learnt that the outbreak has resulted in 11,587 suspected cases, and 7,202 confirmed cases across 105 local government areas in 17 states and the Federal Capital Territory, mostly among children. However, a total of 453 deaths have also occurred in confirmed cases, giving a case fatality rate of 6.3 per cent. UNICEF, in a statement made available on Wednesday, said that it was providing urgent support to the Nigerian government in its efforts to combat the outbreak. READ MORE: Over 283,727 Children Suffering From Malnutrition In Benue UNICEF A crucial part of this support includes the procurement of vaccines to support the governments response. So far, on behalf of the government, UNICEF has deployed 9.3 million doses of diphtheria vaccines to affected states, including Kano, Bauchi, Borno, Yobe, Katsina, Kaduna, and Jigawa. Of these, four million doses have been dispatched to Kano, the epicentre of the outbreak. Another four million doses of vaccines are being procured and will be handed over to the government in the coming weeks, the statement read in part. It added that to respond effectively to the outbreak, UNICEF Nigeria said it needed to raise an additional $3.3m by the end of the year. Meanwhile, UNICEF representative, Dr Rownak Khan, noted that, the devastating impact of this diphtheria outbreak is a reminder of the importance of vaccination. Nigeria is home to a staggering 2.2 million children who havent received even a single dose of vaccine, the second largest in the world. We must collectively take urgent actions to drastically reduce this number. Every child deserves protection from preventable diseases. This is not negotiable. Mira Irons has stepped down as president and chief executive of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia. Read more Pediatrician and geneticist Mira Irons, CEO and president of the College of Physicians, resigned from her position on Wednesday. Appointed by the board of the college in 2021, she oversaw the college, the Mutter Museum, and the Historical Medical Library. Irons was the first woman to serve as college president since the private society of doctors was established in 1787. Irons will return to Bostons Childrens Hospital, the primary teaching hospital for Harvard Medical School where she worked as a physician for 15 years, to serve as the Park Gerald Chair in Genetics & Genomics, and become the Associate Chief of Genetics and Genomics. During her brief tenure at the College of Physicians, Irons oversaw the institutions efforts to recover pandemic losses while also leading efforts to expand the colleges footprint on 22nd Street with the $9.3 million purchase of two nearby historic buildings intended to host college programs in the future. She and the College of Physicians board of trustees hired Kate Quinn as the Mutters first dedicated executive director in 2022 and together they have spearheaded a significant direction shift for the medical history museum, which showcases rare anatomical specimens like President Grover Clevelands jaw tumor and slides of Albert Einsteins brain. The Mutters identity crisis is rooted in the debate over the ethical use and display of human remains in its collection. Most of its specimens were acquired in the 1800s and 1900s, with some cases of unethical acquisitions, like grave robbing, and other cases with little information available regarding provenance. Irons and Quinn have also questioned whether the museum offers enough educational information surrounding its human remains on display, such as the fetuses in the teratology exhibit, which includes donations from parents who consented to the exhibit. Amid these changes, critics have accused Irons and Quinn of deconstructing the museum, which they have denied. But they have kick-started major plans to revamp the Mutter, which Quinn has said should focus on health and well-being, not death. The museum recently announced a listening tour, inviting public feedback on the future of its human remains collection, including town hall meetings, a forthcoming exhibit, and other events to discuss the fact that only a small percentage of specimens come from people who gave informed and enthusiastic consent to be on display, according to Quinn. The first town hall event is Oct. 17 and preregistration is required. Dr. Irons arrived at a time of great change for our organization [she] embraced the challenge to collaboratively reenvision the Colleges future, including the complex and sensitive ethical issues confronting the Mutter Museum and museums all over the world concerning best practices and the respectful display of human remains, said Julia Haller, chair of the College of Physicians board, in a statement. In the interim, three College Fellows will take over Irons job until the board hires a replacement: Carolyn Asbury, a medical drug policy researcher and an adjunct senior fellow at Penns Institute of Health Economics; Daniel Dempsey, an emeritus surgery professor at Penn; and Sankey Williams, an emeritus professor in internal medicine at the Perelman School of Medicine and in health care management at Penns Wharton School. This robot cat server, known as a BellaBot, assists waitstaff at EMei in Chinatown. Read more I was out holiday shopping last year when I stopped into a Smashburger at the Marple Crossroads Shopping Center in Delco and encountered something that made me as wide-eyed as a kid on Christmas morning a robot cat server. The white, obelisk-like robot with four shelves, two cat ears, and a computer screen face with expressive eyes and whiskers, glided through the restaurant playing ethereal music and emitting a soft blue light. It delivered burgers and fries tableside and, afterward, returned to its station near the counter. Other customers barely batted an eye, but I couldnt contain my wonder and started filming the robot. I wanted to scream Why arent you all freaking out too?!? A robot cat just delivered your lunch! Over the last year, Ive seen more people posting on social media and talking about encountering the robot which is called a BellaBot at Philly area restaurants like Toms Dim Sum, Chu Shang Spicy, and Nine Ting. But perhaps nowhere is it more photographed than at popular Chinatown restaurant EMei, which boasts not one, but two robot servers. Advertisement When they come out, people turn their heads and take pictures, and kids will follow them around, said Dan Tsao, who co-owns EMei with wife, Tingting Wan. Some people even request the robot to serve them. I wanted to know more about these robot cat servers. Are they a prescient foreboding of a robotic uprising to be feared and conquered, like HitchBOT, or are they useful tools that should be embraced as a wave of the future? Entertaining and fun Tsao, who also publishes the Metro Chinese Weekly newspaper and runs its WeChat channel with more than 50,000 subscribers, helps connect local restaurateurs interested in the bots with Rutech, a Chicago-based company that distributes them in the U.S. He invited me to his restaurant recently to introduce me to his robots, show me how they work, and share his experiences. They cant replace any human job, but they can serve as an assistant that allows us to cut redundancy, Tsao said. Its also entertaining and fun. Designed and manufactured by Pudu Robotics, a Chinese-based tech company, the BellaBot wasintroduced in the U.S. in January 2020 at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Tsao got his white BellaBot and a slightly smaller, yellow robot by Pudu, called a KettyBot (which does not have feline-like features) last October. At the restaurant, theyre known affectionately as Little White and Little Yellow. The KettyBot which weighs 84 pounds, is about three-and-a-half feet tall, and costs around $12,000 is used primarily to run take-out orders from the packing station in the back of the restaurant to the hostess stand at the front. During busy times, this allows the food packer to continue fulfilling orders, instead of interrupting their work to walk the 90-step round-trip to the hostess stand and back. In the journey from here to the front, there are kids running and people walking in the aisles and weve had no issues, Tsao said. Nothing has fallen and nobody has been hit. The BellaBot which weighs 121 pounds, stands at just over four feet tall, and costs about $16,000 can go to any table in the restaurant and functions more as a server, helping deliver food to dine-in customers. It can go to multiple tables in a single journey and also works as a busser, bringing dirty dishes back to the kitchen. A curious incident The robots, which have been programmed with table numbers and specific locations within the restaurant, use visual and laser simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) to navigate around objects, people, and even each other. They never get a table wrong, they never hit anyone, and theyve never spilled anything, Tsao said. But there was a curious incident when the BellaBot was initially programmed. The staff came in one morning and discovered it wasnt at its station or anywhere they could see. They found the robot in the bathroom hallway, Tsao said, laughing. Did she have to pee in the middle of the night? Cattitude Luckily, the BellaBot doesnt require a bathroom or a litter box, but it is equipped with several interesting interactive features. Capable of being programmed in a variety of languages, the BellaBot can play music, sing Happy Birthday, and react to human touch. Scratch its ears and BellaBot, which has more than a dozen facial expressions, will giggle and smile. But keep at it too long and BellaBots claws come out. Its ears turn red, its face gets frowny, and it reminds you it has work to do (like a real cat, it doesnt have time to hang around all day being showered with affection by the likes of you). The BellaBot is useful, adorable, and equipped with attitude, making it a good fit for Philly, but I know Philadelphians well enough to realize that if a BellaBot threatened a single human job, it could find itself sleeping at the bottom of the Schuylkill River or dismembered in a dark alley. Before I could even ask, Tsao was quick to tell me the robots havent had an effect on the number of human staff at his restaurant. On the contrary, Tsao said his staffing levels are now 130% of what they were pre-pandemic. He said the BellaBot cuts down on the miles of steps his servers walk in the restaurant every day and it aids in carrying heavy loads. When someone calls out sick, the BellaBot can be activated to shoulder the burden, Tsao said. It might help each server with 20% of their workload, he said. A final scratch While Ive written before about my concern for technological advancements that diminish or eliminate the need for human interactions, after having lunch at EMei twice recently, I didnt find that to be the case. On the first trip, a human waiter carried and delivered my food, and on the second, the BellaBot brought my food but a person still took it off the bot and presented it to me. And when I needed a to-go box for my Chongqing Spicy Chicken, it was a human, not a robot that I asked. Still, before I left EMei I made sure to scratch the BellaBots ears until it got ornery, just to remind the robot and myself that humans are still in charge. For now. David Zandstra is escorted out of the Delaware County Courthouse by Pennsylvania State Police on Thursday. Zandstra, 83, has been charged in the abduction and murder of eight year-old Gretchen Harrington in 1975. Read more A former minister at a Broomall church accused of killing an 8-year-old girl in a cold case that confounded detectives for half a century was extradited to Delaware County on Thursday afternoon. David Zandstra, 83, was charged in July with first-, second- and third-degree murder, as well as kidnapping, in the 1975 death of Gretchen Harrington. Gretchen was a student at Bible study group that split time between Reformed Presbyterian Church, where her father, Harold, was a pastor, and Trinity Church Chapel Christian Reform Church, which was overseen by Zandstra. READ MORE: Nearly 50 years after panic gripped suburbia, a new book, a key witness, and a confession Zandstra confessed to the killing Gretchen and burying her body in a nearby state park during an interview with Pennsylvania State Police detectives. They had elicited that confession, they later said, by confronting him with new evidence that he had molested another girl not long before Gretchen went missing, according to the affidavit of probable cause filed for his arrest. Advertisement Lawyers for Zandstra, who retired to Marietta, Ga., in the intervening years, initially fought extradition. But prosecutors led by Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer lobbied help from Gov. Josh Shapiros office to bring the confessed killer back to Pennsylvania. Speaking Thursday afternoon outside of the Delaware County Courthouse in Media, Stollsteimer credited the state polices cold case unit, saying their efforts were policework 101. And now, [Zandstra] will begin the process of facing justice for the horrible, evil thing he did to this poor little girl who trusted him because he was a pastor and a family friend, Stollsteimer said. And she made the mistake of getting into the car with this man, this monster. Stollsteimer said that Gretchens abduction and murder have distressed Zandstras former congregation, which the district attorney said is likely to close later this year. Investigators in other jurisdictions are also looking for Zandstras potential involvement in other unsolved murders, Stollsteimer said. In Fairfield, Calif., for example, police are now investigating whether Zandstra might be connected to the 1991 disappearance of 4-year-old Nikki Campbell. Gretchen vanished on Aug. 15, 1975, leaving her neighbors and police without any leads. Two months later, a hiker discovered skeletal remains in Ridley Creek State Park in Edgmont Township that were later identified as Gretchens. Her makeshift grave was 2 miles from where she was last seen. READ MORE: Suspect arrested in 1975 killing of Delco girl: What we know An autopsy revealed that she had been killed by blunt-force trauma to the head, according to police. Her clothes had been neatly folded and piled near her body, her underwear hung from a nearby tree, as if signaling bystanders to her remains. The case languished for years, as local and state police detectives desperately tried to drum up clues, forming search parties to comb through wooded areas, flooding the region with fliers, and even consulting with a psychic, according to news reports at the time. Most of the original detectives who handled her disappearance have since retired or died. But the catalyst for Zandstras arrest came in 2021, when two Marple Township residents, Mike Mathis and Joanna Sullivan, contacted current Police Chief Brandon Graeff and asked for the original case files for a book they were writing about Gretchens disappearance, investigators said. After the book published in 2022, a woman approached the authors and said she had new information. READ MORE: Minister charged in 1975 killing of 8-year-old Delco girl Gretchen Harrington The woman, who has not been identified by police, provided police with her childhood diary, in which she detailed Zandstra molesting her during two sleepovers at his home just days before Gretchen vanished, the affidavit said. She also wrote that shortly after Gretchens abduction, another girl she was friends with was nearly kidnapped. In the diary, the woman, who was close friends with Zandstras daughters, wrote she believed that the attempted kidnapper was Mr. Z, the same person who had taken Gretchen, according to the affidavit. Armed with that evidence, detectives traveled to Georgia to speak with the former minister. After some initial hesitance, Zandstra confessed to killing Gretchen, police said. He told the detectives he had lured her into his vehicle, and then drove to Ridley Creek State Park. In a secluded area, he demanded she undress. When she refused, he struck her in the head with a rock and covered her half-naked body with leaves and other debris. We asked and he spoke, said Trooper Eugene Tray, one of the detectives who interviewed Zandstra. He was presented with things I dont think he expected to be presented with. Then, I think he started to think more on it. I think he just wanted his sick, twisted version of redemption, and to come clean. Zandstra was taken to the state police barracks in Media for his arraignment, and then transported to George W. Hill Correctional Facility, Delaware Countys jail. His preliminary hearing will be scheduled in the coming days. For the second night in a row, groups of people broke into and burglarized a string of businesses in Northeast Philadelphia, leaving store owners again cleaning up destruction. The thieves smashed the doors of about a half-dozen shops early Thursday morning including three Fine Wine & Good Spirits, a small beauty supply store, and a Walgreens, among others and fled with their arms and bags filled with goods. Police arrested nine people, bringing the total number of people charged with the mass theft since Tuesday to 61. The second round of looting prompted city leaders to again condemn the action and call for peace, and City Council members said Thursday they were working to connect business owners with grant opportunities and help with cleanup. And it came as Eddie Irizarrys family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Officer Mark Dial, who shot and killed Irizarry in Kensington last month, and his partner Michael Morris, who was present but did not fire his gun. The first round of looting Tuesday was prompted by a judges decision to dismiss all criminal charges against Dial, even as Irizarrys family called for peace amid pleas for justice. Advertisement READ MORE: Plans for Tuesdays vandalism were an open secret on social media, and the destruction was documented in videos through the night Claudia Silmeas, owner of Nats Beauty Supply in Mayfair, was shaking and on the verge of tears as she described the extensive damage to her small business Thursday. This is my only source of income, she said. Im heartbroken, at a loss of words, nobody is ready for this. No one plans for this to happen. And Jay Pross, owner of streetwear shop Art History 101, the designs of which have been worn by Eagles coach Nick Sirianni and Phillies star Bryce Harper, similarly swept up shards of glass. Almost all of his handmade merchandise was stolen off the shelves after thieves smashed the front door with a large brick. Were gonna reopen, we just dont know when, he said. The Thursday vandalism followed a string of similar smash-and-grab crimes across Center City, West, and Northeast Philadelphia Tuesday night that police said were carried out by criminal opportunists looking to capitalize on the dismissal of charges against Dial. City officials said the Department of Commerce has met with nearly 50 businesses in impacted areas. The burglaries began after Irizarrys family held a peaceful protest outside City Hall to condemn Municipal Court Judge Wendy L. Pews decision. Once the gathering ended and the family went home, a rogue group of young people started breaking into Rittenhouse Square stores. Interim Police Commissioner John Stanford reiterated Thursday that the looters were not connected to the protests. Many of these people that were looting probably didnt even know this young mans name, Stanford said in an interview on WURD. These were not people that were out there protesting for justice. These were people that looked for an opportunity to steal, looked for an opportunity to destroy our city. READ MORE: Family, supporters of Eddie Irizarry march after judge dismisses charges against Philly officer who killed him Irizarrys family has decried the thefts and vandalism. People angry with Pews decision should come to the court instead of tearing down our city, Irizarrys aunt Zoraida Garcia said. Bring posters and stand in front of the courthouse, she said, and lets do this the right way. Fight together for justice. But the outcry didnt stop some groups in the Northeast. At Nats Beauty Supply, surveillance video showed about 10 people in hoodies, gloves, and surgical masks gathered in the parking lot around 12:45 a.m. Using what appeared to be a bat, they smashed the front door and ducked inside. Within two minutes, dozens of hair extensions, wigs, and products were cleared out. Silmeas rushed over about 1 a.m. to find the walls and shelves of her most expensive products items that cost as much as $135 a bundle nearly bare. She spent much of Thursday cleaning and counting the lost inventory, and estimates she lost thousands of dollars. The business, she said, just opened five months ago and is her one and only, first store. I was working six, seven days a week, mornings ... nights, overnight, she said, so I could save up to open this store, and now this happened. At Art History 101, the thieves threw a large brick through the front door, then fled with almost all of the custom-made hats, hoodies, shirts, and cash register. All they left, store owner Pross said, was the art hanging on the walls. Pross swept up the shattered glass Thursday afternoon alongside his 4-year-old son. He wasnt sure how much money hed lost, but said it would set the business of 13 years back considerably amid a busy time, with the Eagles season underway and Phillies playoff games beginning next week. The Fine Wine & Good Spirits on Adams Avenue in Olney was looted for a second night about 1 a.m. The break-in occurred after the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, which oversees the states liquor stores, elected Wednesday to indefinitely close all Philadelphia Fine Wine & Good Spirits locations. At least 18 of its stores were targeted Tuesday night. Most stores reopened at 11 a.m. Thursday, but nine will remain closed to clean up damage and improve security. The city is taking a handful of steps to direct small businesses to support and to assist in cleanup. City Councilmember Mike Driscoll, whose district includes the Mayfair business corridor, said his office is referring small businesses to The Merchants Fund, which provides grants of up to $20,000 in case of emergencies like unexpected vandalism. He also sought to assure constituents and business owners that police are making arrests. We are not going to ignore, he said. Were not going to look the other way. Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, whose West Philadelphia district includes the 52nd Street corridor, said at least two businesses a pharmacy and a general store were heavily burglarized Tuesday. She said the Streets Department assisted with cleanup, but said the city needs to find ways to financially support the businesses that have endured a relentless cycle of unrest since 2020. I understand the pain that rippled through our community after the judges decision the other day around the Eddie Irizarry case, she said. But at the same time, my heart breaks for these small-business owners who have put their lives into these businesses and who we need as a community. Tuesday night, 52 people were arrested on burglary and theft charges in connection with the initial string of coordinated break-ins, which started with the Apple Store and Lululemon in Center City before spreading to businesses along Aramingo Avenue in the Northeast and 52nd Street in West Philadelphia. Dayjia Blackwell, a 21-year-old social media influencer also known as Meatball, livestreamed much of the night to her more than 185,000 Instagram followers, documenting how police say the group drove from Center City to Port Richmond and the Roosevelt Mall to carry out break-ins before being arrested on camera. Blackwell was charged Wednesday with two misdemeanors and six felonies, including conspiracy and inciting a riot. She was released on 10% of $25,000 bail, and posted soon after on social media. Ill never get locked up again, she wrote. That scared me. Staff writers Erin McCarthy and Chris Palmer contributed to this article. Family Friend Dr. Darryl J. Ford, at the podium, Retired Head of Penn Charter School speaks at the funeral for Dr. Constance E. Clayton, the first Black and first female Philadelphia Superintendent, at the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas, in Philadelphia, Thursday, September 28, 2023. Read more Until the end, Constance E. Clayton would never leave the fate of issues she cared about to chance. It surprised no one, then, that she planned the funeral service that celebrated her Thursday, leaving detailed notes about who should sing and what, who should give remembrances she chose 17 speakers, some of whom were left specific instructions about the topics they should cover and how the order of service should be arranged. But even the indomitable Clayton, the trailblazing former Philadelphia superintendent who died Sept. 18 at age 89, could not have choreographed the outpouring of love and deep respect that her death inspired. READ MORE: Constance Clayton, Philadelphias first Black and female schools superintendent, has died at 89 Advertisement About 200 people a whos who of education and political personalities gathered at the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas in West Philadelphia to pay respects to Clayton. Mayor John F. Street spoke, as did Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. and Philadelphia Federation of Teachers president Jerry Jordan. Former Superintendent William R. Hite Jr. attended, as did the entire current school board and Cherelle Parker, Democratic nominee for mayor. Philadelphia knew Clayton as a no-nonsense chief of what was the fifth-largest school system in the country during her tenure, from 1982 to 1993 the woman who took a school system battered by strikes, deficits and the handing out of patronage jobs, and then calmed the waters, standardizing curriculum across the city and insisting on high standards for all. Clayton was so esteemed in the city that at a party marking Darryl Fords retirement as head of school at Penn Charter, the longtime friend of Claytons felt like second banana because people wanted to greet Clayton before they wished him well. Dr. Constance E. Clayton was the star, and we were the players on her stage, said Ford, one of the speakers. Aruby White, who was Claytons friend and East Mount Airy neighbor for decades, knew Clayton as a devoted friend with a soft side, someone who loved antiques, jewelry and old Hollywood movies. She was funny, and she loved to make jokes, especially about politics, White said at the funeral. White eventually moved to Los Angeles; when Clayton learned she was coming back to Philadelphia to visit, she told White she must stay with her, and if White tried to refuse, Clayton said shed call the Philadelphia Police Department and have her barred from entering the city. And Clayton loved learning; even when her body grew frail in recent years, her mind was sharp. She recently brushed up on her knitting skills and had begun to knit scarves to give to needy children this winter. Clayton revered her mother, who died in 2004. When she made donations to causes, Clayton often asked that the gifts be made not in her name, but, In memory of Willabell Clayton. Willabell Clayton instilled in her daughter a desire to do right, to stand up against injustice. When Cecil B. Moore, then-president of the Philadelphia chapter of the NAACP, contested the will of the banker Stephen Girard in an attempt to integrate Girard College, Clayton was one of the teenagers who protested outside the North Philadelphia school for months, in all weather. Her mother would drive home children who needed a ride, said Gloria Blount, a friend of Claytons. Deidre Farmbry, who spent years as a special assistant to Clayton at the school district, learned much from her about leadership that dares to accomplish the impossible. But her favorite conversations happened around Claytons kitchen table, when they ate sandwiches and talked about their lives. Clayton, Farmbry said, had a quick tongue for lashing out against absurdities and inequities. At the same time, she never failed to ask about Farmbrys son. She called those she loved sweetheart. As the Constance Clayton Professor of Urban Education at the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education, Howard Stevenson became close to Clayton. She was deeply involved in planning a yearly lecture that bore her name, sometimes calling Stevenson four times a day to fine-tune details. At one recent lecture, Clayton was displeased with an answer given to a child who asked a question about why African American history wasnt more emphasized in most social studies curricula. She thought the speaker didnt answer robustly or seriously enough. So Clayton addressed the question herself, from the audience, and then directed the child to ask the question again. The speaker didnt make the same mistake twice. Whatever Dr. Clayton wants, shes going to get it, said Stevenson. Watlington was nervous the first time he met Clayton, he said. He arrived at her house 10 minutes early, made sure he was wearing a sharp tie. He was new in town, recently arrived in Philadelphia to lead the school system after years in education in North Carolina, and he wanted to make a good impression. READ MORE: Philly schools poised to rename headquarters for former superintendent Constance Clayton In 2020, a survey of superintendents revealed that 3.4% were Black. Just 1.5% were Black women. Watlington said he was eager to learn from a woman who became Philadelphias first Black and first female superintendent 40 years before. She had this national reputation as the premier superintendent in these United States, said Watlington. And she became his friend and adviser, calling him as recently as three days before her death to talk about after-school programs, math curricula and year-round school. Watlington has proposed renaming the districts headquarters for Clayton, which the school board will consider at a future meeting. Another speaker at the funeral, Pennsylvania Education Secretary Khalid Mumin, brought the condolences of Gov. Josh Shapiro, and his own deep respect for Clayton. In the late 80s, Mumin, who grew up in the citys Logan section, was a struggling student at Olney High School. He had to repeat ninth grade. But Clayton mobilized him with a speech given to young athletes at a church breakfast. She basically told us to get off the sidelines and do something, Mumin said. He never forgot that. And when he became an educator, he told her. Im just one example, Mumin said, of the effect that Dr. Clayton had on us. September saw both positive and negative developments in the relationship between the United States and Iran. On the positive side, the Iranian government released five Americans who had been unlawfully detained in Iran. In return, the United States released five Iranians held in the U.S. and made accessible to Iran, for humanitarian purposes, $6 billion in Iranian funds that had been frozen in South Korea. On the negative side, the Iranian government informed the International Atomic Energy Agency that it has withdrawn the official designation of several experienced IAEA inspectors. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi condemned the move, which, he said, severely impacts the IAEAs ability to conduct its verification activities regarding Irans nuclear program. The United States joined France, Germany, and the United Kingdom in a statement denouncing Irans lack of cooperation with the IAEA. The statement noted, This is at a time when the IAEA has serious, longstanding and unresolved questions related to undeclared nuclear materials and activities in Iran that Iran has failed to address for more than four years. Speaking to reporters, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Irans activities in pursuing a nuclear program are a profoundly destabilizing element and one that risks the security of countries not only in the region but well beyond it: Which is why were determined President Biden is determined - that Iran never acquire a nuclear weapon. Secretary Blinken emphasized that the United States believes diplomacy is the most effective way to accomplish that goal. We tried to work indirectly with Iran as well as with European partners and even Russia and China, to see if we could get a return to joint compliance with the Iran nuclear agreement, the so-called JCPOA, but Iran couldnt or wouldnt do that. So the problem is very clear, and the problem is Iran. Secretary Blinken has said the United States would welcome any steps that Iran takes to actually de-escalate the growing nuclear threat it poses since the United States got out of the Iran nuclear agreement. At a recent press briefing, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller underscored that point. If Iran really is serious about taking de-escalatory steps, he declared, the first thing it could do would be to cooperate with the IAEA. OK, so theres this guy in Sweden who calls himself Gaius Flavius who uploads videos of himself on social media dressed as an ancient Roman legionnaire. Last month, Flavius wrote on Instagram: Ladies, many of you do not realize how often men think about the Roman Empire. You will be surprised by their answers! In response, women have been posting TikTok videos in which they ask men the frequency of their Roman reveries. The question, as worded, didnt speak to nonheterosexual couples. Before you could say, Et tu, Brute, celebrities like Paris Hilton, regular folks in Queen Village, and even the Philadelphia Eagles, all got in on it. On Tuesday, TikTok videos that were tagged #romanempire had amassed a staggering 1.4 billion views. By Wednesday morning, it was 1.5 billion. The trend is changing Viral videos, like viruses themselves, can mutate. And now people are so aware of the meme, theyre apparently flipping the script. Youve been seeing on Instagram reels how men are reversing things, said Charlie Huemmler, 25, a city planner from Fishtown.Theyre actually studying up a bit, so if someone does ask them about the Roman Empire, theyre just ready to rattle off facts about it. Advertisement They do it as a joke, exaggerating how much they think about it. Paige Regan, 35, a 3D tech designer from Queen Village, agreed. I heard about the TikTok, and I asked my boyfriend immediately how often he thinks about the Roman Empire, and he said, Every day. Now, I know hes big into Roman Stoicism [promoting virtues like piety] and Marcus Aurelius [emperor and Stoic philosopher]. And every guys favorite movie is Gladiator. But I doubt hes thinking of it every day. I think its more of a joke. Regans boyfriend declined to clear up the mystery. No less a male role model than Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce wondered whether this all is a goof. Asked on a YouTube video how often he thinks about the Roman Empire, he answered, My wife asked me this question. Never. I dont know how this became a thing. I dont know if its a big joke everybody is playing. For the record, offensive tackle Fred Johnson said that he thinks about Rome usually three times a week. He added, Is that weird? When Paris Hilton put the question to her husband, Carter Milliken Reum, he said he considers the Roman Empire all the time. What specifically comes to mind? Togas, he said. Its hard to know how much of this is a put-on and how much is a concept that taps into something authentic in the collective consciousness, said Frank Farley, emeritus Temple University psychology professor. Lets face it, theres not a lot of deep intellectual processing on TikTok, he said. But if I were guessing, Id say people relate ancient Rome to a mix of hedonism, authority, and masculinity. Cam Grey, a professor of Roman history at the University of Pennsylvania, said the Rome most of us think about is filtered through Hollywood. Its your Rome, not mine, he said, laughing. I loved the Gladiator film. It was wildly, historically inaccurate. But a great film. The Roman meme floating through cyberspace, he added is awesome, hilarious, ludicrous, and weird. It suggests manly men doing manly stuff, Grey said, and is quite alluring for some. However, he said, despite not being racist, and being incredibly diverse, the Rome of antiquity was a pretty brutal, awful place to live. You had malaria, tuberculosis, gangrene, stomach worms, and epic diarrhea, Grey said, adding, and people lived until maybe, 50. The patriarchy Its not surprising that the old empire would appeal to guys pining for the trappings of an established patriarchy on the heels of the Barbie movie, which presents a strong matriarchy, said Daniel Singley, founder of the Center for Mens Excellence, which offers therapy in San Diego. Rome can be a sort of shorthand: Probably libertine sex and gladiators stabbing each other, Singley said. Women arent asking men if theyre wondering about being accountants during the Roman Empire. The meme speaks to precarious manhood, said mens psychologist Daniel Ellenberg of Marin County, Calif. Masculinity is hard to prove, easy to lose, and must be demonstrated in public. What better way than to be a gladiator? Beyond that, Rome persists, he said, referencing still-standing statues, aqueducts, and (part of) the Colosseum. Engineering and the outer world appeal to men, Ellenberg said. Guys learn not to look inward. Ultimately, said Tim Allen, 49, of East Passyunk, a principal software engineer at the Wharton School at Penn, the how-often-do-men-think-of-the-Roman-Empire question has been a bit more on my mind than most. Thats because, he added, it would please my mom, who taught Latin. As someone who first wrote code at age 6, Allen said, Im always interested how things go viral. And this meme has been contoured perfectly for that purpose: Its got to be almost nonsensical and come out of nowhere, he said. Its got to be catchy. And it must be ridiculous. The Fin Fairy used to be a correctional officer. Now she's a financial dominatrix. Read more Goddess Reyo shows no mercy for missed appointments. When her high-powered client failed to show up for a recent FaceTime call, she sent him a short video in which she pretended to dial his fathers phone number, and then his secretarys. Within five minutes, Reyo said, her client sent along his bank account and routing number. Goddess Reyo is a financial dominatrix. (The Inquirer is referring to all dominatrixes in this story by their professional names for safety reasons.) She makes thousands of dollars each year from a rotating cast of finsubs, (mostly) men with powerful careers who long to relinquish control by sending money, and sometimes full financial access, to findommes like her. These are the types of men that want to feel powerless in some way. And thats the only way to feel powerless, Reyo, 28, said. Shes learned how to spot potential clients in the wild, sometimes just from extra glances at her long, manicured nails. Advertisement In more mainstream sugar baby relationships, wealthy, older men typically pay to take care of younger women, in some way buying power over them. But in the world of financial domination, wealthy, powerful people pay to submit to, and be controlled by, the less powerful. Findommes often have no physical interaction with those they dominate. Instead, the kink is the surrender of the cash itself. Reyo, who lives in Mt. Airy, estimates that she made $150,000 in 2022 from her dominatrix work, not including the value of gifts like clothes, jewelry, and plane tickets. Its one of the most direct possible ways you can do a power and control exchange, said CJ Mooney, a Philly-based sex therapist who has worked with clients in the financial domination, or findom, space. People who arent normally asked or expected to submit to anyone or anything to be put in that role is very exciting. Mooney has seen an uptick in conversations about findom among therapy clients, partly because people are talking more openly about kink in general. Additionally, the pandemic lockdown pushed all kinds of sex work online, and financial domination is particularly well-suited to the Internet. Dominatrixes advertise on Twitter and Instagram, with links to electronic payment profiles for tributes. New arrivals must first learn the lingo: subs are called pay pigs; cash meets are brief in-person encounters where subs hand over envelopes of money. Some also sign on for draining sessions, when a domme will require $20 or $50 every 10 minutes until a subs account is drained or a money cap is reached. Some submissives will give dommes full access to their bank accounts and passwords, thrilled by the risk of financial ruin and a sense of losing control, Mooney said. Sometimes theres a video or picture exchange involved. At a recent cash meet, Goddess Reyo instructed her client to bring her $300 in an envelope and a box of Krispy Kremes (I was craving doughnuts, she explained). He met her at a parking lot, on his knees. She arrived late, on purpose; after he handed her the cash and the doughnuts, he tried to strike up a conversation. I was just kind of in my ignoring mood they love that, they love when you ignore them, she said laughing. As with any industry, especially one full of freelancers, individuals strive for smart branding, to keep clients coming back. The Fin Fairy, who is 34 and lives in West Philly, used to be a correctional officer. Last summer, after leaving prison work, she attended a three-month dominatrix academy in New York run by two successful financial dominatrixes. (She also works full-time in the healthcare field). She learned about the business side of the profession: a dominatrix should maintain accounts on multiple platforms, from Twitter to the payment-based OnlyFans, and a submissive should always pay an initial tribute before a domme will deign to speak to him. She learned that draining sessions were not predictable sources of income; after spending so much money at once, clients often stay away. For her business, she adopted a Tinkerbell, whimsical, Wonderland fairy persona, complete with wings. Its just so liberating, Fin Fairy said. In this male-dominated world that we live in, for a woman to be in control and not necessarily using her body to do so it means a lot. While some of the relationships are one-offs, others are longterm. Ivy, 29, has had the same submissive for nearly 10 years. He is a tech executive who lives in New Jersey. She knows what he likes in exchange for racking up bills on his credit card: photos showing her giving him the middle finger, tapping his card, and carrying bags of pricey purchases on her arm. When they meet in person, which only happens once every year or two, he likes her to spit in his drink. Pretty easy, she said. The benefits for her are myriad: She takes her friends out to lunch and pays her electric bill with his money. Being rude to him relieves tension for her. But even being a financial dominatrix has its stressors. Sometimes, shell get an urgent text message from her submissive telling her to spend, ASAP. Oh my God, Im at work. Im on break right now, I have an hour, she said. Im just running around to stores nearby, and I swear to God, Im buying stuff sometimes I dont even want. Scenes of vandalism and unrest Tuesday night shared by a social media influencer from North Philly known as Meatball on their Instagram account. Read more The vandalism and theft that spread across Philadelphia on Tuesday night were at least partially organized on social media, according to police, and some of it was also broadcast live on Instagram and TikTok by a 21-year-old social media influencer from North Philly known as Meatball. What we doing tonight behind this injustice tap in? Dayjia Blackwell wrote to her roughly 185,000 Instagram followers, referring to a judges decision earlier in the day to drop all charges against former Philadelphia Police Officer Mark Dial, who was arrested in the fatal shooting last month of Eddie Irizarry, 27, during a traffic stop. Interim Police Commissioner John Stanford has described the thieves as opportunists who piggybacked on the anger and grief surrounding the Irizarry case. After a peaceful downtown protest disbanded about 7:30 p.m., Blackwell, who also has 466,000 followers and 13.4 million views on TikTok, was already in Center City surrounded by a group of other young people that seemed to grow by the minute. Advertisement What store we going at first, yall? she said to the camera. Someone replied: Apple Store. Vandals later hit the Apple Store location on Walnut Street along with a nearby Foot Locker and Lululemon. In the ensuing hours, more thieves on foot or in cars would descend upon the Roosevelt Mall in Northeast Philadelphia, stores along Aramingo Avenue, and elsewhere. The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board temporarily shuttered retail locations in Philadelphia after 18 state-run liquor stores across the city were broken into overnight. Stanford said officers were already downtown due to the Irizarry protest, so they were able to quickly respond to the initial looting reports in the Rittenhouse Square area. But cops were also monitoring social media to respond to the reports citywide, in what has become something of a familiar cat-and-mouse game around the country. We were able to link some things on social media, Stanford said at a news conference held late Tuesday night. We had a group that was making their way through the city. Quite naturally, you have followers who are going to see this and start to come out, and think they have an opportunity to get something. But while videos of posh stores being broken into went viral and attracted international news coverage, this pattern is not exactly new. In 2010 and 2011, several similar episodes downtown described by the media at the time as flash mobs saw downtown department stores similarly swarmed by crowds of upward of 100 teens. Police later traced the origins of one such act back to private messages on the social networking service MySpace. In a 2011 Department of Justice report on the rise of social media-related crime across the United States, then-Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey stated that the department had been caught off-guard by these episodes, some of which were organized days in advance, because authorities were not routinely viewing social media sites. That quickly changed, according to Ramsey. In 2013, police issued a formal directive stating that the Police Departments Criminal Intelligence Unit would be assigned to conduct covert intelligence gathering efforts using social networks or computer programs at the request of police commanders. Police also began coordinating with the economic development agency Center City District to disseminate information about potential acts to merchants. The difference between today and a decade ago is the increased popularity of social media and the speed with which information can spread using modern apps. As use of social media has expanded generally, so, too, has police use of social media, said Rachel Levinson-Waldman, an expert on police surveillance at the Brennan Center for Justice in New York. Although a Philadelphia police spokesperson did not respond to questions about the exact nature of their efforts, Levinson-Waldman said some law enforcement officers now use undercover accounts, as well as software that allows them to sift through large amounts of data, such as locations, names, and hashtags. It really does supercharge police capabilities, said Levinson-Waldman, who has also raised privacy concerns around such high-tech surveillance initiatives. While the downtown flash mobs were largely contained to a small geographic area, the vandals and thieves on Tuesday moved relatively quickly through Center City, West Philly, and Northeast Philly, directed in part, it seems, by livestreaming and other social media chatter. (A series of recurring illegal car rallies on city streets has employed similar tactics, with meet-up locations disseminated through private messages to evade police rapid response units.) OK, where we going next? Where we going next? Blackwell shouted on camera after the crowd left the Apple Store with arms full of iPhones and iPads. She pointed her camera at the Lululemon store as they ran in that direction. On Tuesday, some appeared to expect a repeat of the mass demonstrations that followed the 2020 police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, and strained police responses to criminal activity. This time, that didnt materialize. Blackwell was arrested mid-livestream, one of the 52 people taken into custody Tuesday night. She was charged Wednesday evening with six felonies and two misdemeanors, including burglary, conspiracy, riot, and criminal use of a communication facility. Police allege that Blackwell went to seven locations where property destruction and burglary took place. But her arrest could raise a chicken-and-egg legal question: Was she livestreaming crimes in progress? Or were the crimes facilitated by her livestreams? If she was taking part in it or saying, All right, come to this next location armed with rocks because were going to break windows, that seems like one thing vs. basically documenting it, said Levinson-Waldman, a former trial attorney in the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division. Even if she has some information about where people are going next, I dont really understand how thats different from journalists work, or being a citizen journalist. Police declined to comment on her arrest. On Wednesday, a woman who said she was Blackwells mother went on Instagram herself to discuss the situation. She used the opportunity to promote the hats that Blackwell sells on her page. Going to get my kid, she posted on her Instagram story, followed by: Beanies for sale $50. Free meatball. Staff writer Ellie Rushing contributed to this article. Armando Jimenez-Carbarin, a lead organizer for Make the Road Pennsylvania, spoke at a rally last year outside of Lehigh Valley Health Network-Cedar Crest Hospital in Allentown, where immigration advocates sought to stop the "medical deportation" of a comatose woman to her Dominican Republic homeland. Read more Philadelphia City Councilmember Jim Harrity has introduced a bill to end so-called medical deportations, where extremely ill, undocumented patients are sent out of the country in what lawyers say are hospitals attempts to shed the cost of ongoing care. I believe that the medical deportation issue is a civil rights issue, and its a human rights issue, said Harrity, who as an at-large member represents all city residents. The bill he introduced on Thursday states: No hospital in Philadelphia may engage in medical deportation, either directly or through a designated agent. It requires that patients get greater control over whether they return to their homelands. And that, if they wish to go, they give their informed consent after the circumstances are explained to them orally and in writing and in a language they understand, if they are not proficient in English. Advertisement For years, these private deportations have been unregulated and ungoverned, most occurring in the shadows, concluded a joint study by Seton Hall University School of Laws Center for Social Justice and the Health Justice Program at New York Lawyers for the Public Interest. The term medical deportation, though commonly used, is a misnomer, because the power of removal rests with the federal government, not with hospitals or flight companies. The practice goes on quietly, immigration advocates say, often without the consent of patients and families. When an uninsured patient arrives at an emergency room, there is no guarantee that the hospital will provide indefinite, chronic care. At the same time, long-term care facilities often will not accept uninsured patients. Hospitals may charter private flights to transport people, and the journey often ends in the aggravation of illness or in death, immigration advocates said. Patients can be sent to countries that cannot provide the level of care that is needed. Its also true that, in some cases, patients and families may decide that the better option is to leave the United States. We want patients to make that decision on their own and not have hospitals make that decision for them, said Adrianna Torres-Garcia, deputy director of the Free Migration Project, a Philadelphia-based advocacy group. This bill would give people more information about their health-care choices, and more information and how and when this [deportation] happens. David OConnell, a Thomas Jefferson University medical student and a member of the End Medical Deportation Campaign, said in a statement that ending the practice protects the dignity and right to health of all those who come through hospital doors. As future physicians, we all pledge to do our best to help the sick, in whatever condition we find them and regardless of their means, he said. In March, Pennsylvania immigration activists stopped an Allentown hospital from carrying out the forced deportation of an undocumented, comatose patient. The 46-year-old woman, identified only as S.C., experienced complications from surgery after suffering a brain aneurysm in December 2022. Her supporters said the mother of two could die if she were sent to the Dominican Republic. Her husband, Junior Rivas, 52, said he refused hospital-administration requests to consent to her removal. A spokesperson for the Lehigh Valley Health Network said at the time that the network could not comment on the womans case because of privacy laws, but it works tirelessly with patients and their families to ensure they receive appropriate care. The woman is now under care at a facility in Pennsylvania. In Philadelphia in June 2020, advocates rallied to stop the deportation of an undocumented Guatemalan man who suffered a serious brain injury when he was struck by a motorcycle in May. Activists gathered for what they said would be a physical effort to block a vehicle carrying him to the airport from Jefferson Torresdale Hospital. The man, identified as A.V., was later moved to a long-term care facility in the Philadelphia region. Members of the Pennsylvania Immigration and Citizenship Coalition, Make the Road Pennsylvania, CASA, and the Free Migration Project have worked to try to stop this type of deportations. The Free Migration Project argues that a need for long-term health care should not create a risk for deportation and has called on hospital systems to explore options that include uninsured and undocumented patients. This bill will put an end to the practice of international patient dumping, Harrity said. Patients and their caregivers should have the option to choose or decline medical repatriation, and be given support to apply for emergency medical assistance if they choose to seek care in the United States. Staff writer Sean Collins Walsh contributed to this article. The children's section in the Indian Valley Public Library, a Montgomery County library located in Telford, has been at the center of a fierce battle over the future of the library. A slate of borough council candidates who've called to defund the library unless it addresses their concerns about materials available there won the Republican primary in an upset. Read more When Natalie Cimonetti received a threatening letter from the police chief of Telford, a quiet borough of about 5,000 people that straddles the Montgomery-Bucks county line, she was stunned. A mother of two, she works as a community organizer for Red Wine & Blue, which aims to mobilize a voting bloc of liberal, suburban, wine moms a mission that has put her at odds with Moms for Liberty, which the Southern Poverty Law Center calls an extremist parental-rights group. The Aug. 9 letter signed by Chief Randall Floyd said the Montgomery County District Attorney had determined that, based on Cimonettis social media posts, criminal charges are warranted and would be filed if Cimonetti didnt lay off her campaign of internet stalking and doxing Moms for Liberty members. Cimonetti denies stalking anyone. And the ACLU of Pennsylvania called the warning she received illegal intimidation and an alarming example of law-enforcement overreach intended to chill free speech. Advertisement For Cimonetti, its proof that her small town one square mile of suburban-style homes and grassy lawns whose significant landmarks include a supermarket and the Indian Valley Public Library has been fully consumed by the incendiary politics that have led to bitter fights over masking mandates, curricula and school-library books in the regions school districts. The conflict comes amid a Telford Borough Council race that Cimonetti has been deeply involved in and that has effectively been reframed as a moral crisis. The library, and whether to continue funding it, has become a flashpoint in that campaign, driven by a slate of Republican candidates, two of them write-ins, who swept their primaries by claiming that obscene material sitting on its shelves is being made available to children. Earlier this year, the Telford council approved a 25% cut in its funding to the library, which serves five towns that make up the Souderton Area School District in part, to satisfy Floyds request for increased police funding. It also made its allocation to the library a line item that can be struck out in any given month. The police chief denied having any relationship with Moms for Liberty, and said he routinely sends out warnings in situations in which harassment occurs. I dont care what side of the issue theyre on, he said. In his view, Cimonettis posts, including a spreadsheet of local Moms identities, with links to their Facebook profiles and the addresses of their workplaces, fit that definition. The Montgomery County DAs Office did not respond to a request for comment. He also rejects the idea of pitting library and police funding against one another. We have a councilman who has kind of led a campaign against providing funding to our local library, and I personally believe a public library is for everybody. Floyd said the funding was needed to hire an extra officer among other things because the volatility of local politics now necessitates a police presence at previously quite boring public meetings. The situation shows how culture-war battles previously playing out in school board meetings across the country have found a new front line: the public library. The American Library Association reported in September that 2023 is on track to log the highest number of attempted library book bans since it began keeping data on book challenges 20 years ago. Where, last year, just 16% of book challenges were in public libraries, as opposed to school or university libraries, this year 49% were. Last year, Akron Borough in Lancaster County halved its funding to the Ephrata library, as a statement of conservative values, according to WITF, the public media organization. Elsewhere, Montana library directors have resigned over book bans; Catholic activists in Michigan took it upon themselves to replace Pride Month displays with religious texts; a Virginia county cut library funding by 75%, citing sexually explicit materials; and the mayor of Anderson County, Tenn., asked the sheriff to investigate whether library materials violate criminal obscenity laws. Thats unfortunately what Telford became this year and I think its really unnecessary, Floyd said. We have other things we need to be focused on, like maintaining our public safety and infrastructure, and not getting tied up on these national issues. Weaponizing the library The Indian Valley Public Library on a September morning was a quiet hum of activity. In one corner of the converted school building, a life-sized Cat in the Hat presided over the colorful display of books and toys in the childrens section, where a few young children played under close supervision. A game room, used by chess and bridge clubs, awaited its regulars, as did the shelves of cookbooks, the local-history section staffed by a librarian-genealogist, and, down a long corridor away from the childrens department, a small graphic-novel collection. Students and remote workers labored at desks in glassed-walled offices and meeting rooms. Nearby, staffers for Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick and state Sen. Maria Collett were holding office hours. This is actually very quiet, said Margie Stern, who has been the librarys director for seven years. Were in between story times. The library, which has a $1.2 million annual budget, is part of the Montgomery County library system. Up until this year, Sterns most pressing concern, like that of librarians across the country, was reining in the spiraling cost of ebooks. Starting in March, all of that changed abruptly. She attended a Telford Borough Council meeting that month, and was shocked by what she heard. People were saying, The librarians were grooming. They were providing pornography. . Then [Borough Councilmember Robert] Jacobus handed me this document, which sort of explained everything. Jacobus joined the Telford Borough Council last fall; his other endeavors have included running a Christian media company and marketing an ebook called Foretold, about Biblical prophecies that he says have been proven accurate through the use of satellite imagery and ground photography. The document he gave Stern was a report, titled the Library Loophole, which claimed to prove that the library harbored Pornographic, Obscene, How to materials, and info facilitating sex trafficking. Within are photos of the librarys Pride Month displays; sex scenes clipped from books with queer themes, such as Fun Home, the coming-of-age memoir by the cartoonist Alison Bechdel; and a segment about hookup apps from This Book Is Gay, a sex education book that was among the nations most-banned last year, according to Pen America. Jacobus said he is pro-library. Its just about bad people weaponizing the library to push their agenda on children. He claimed that the childrens section contained books that were challenging the children to investigate transgender materials, and teaching them how to do blow jobs and anal sex. Stern said his claims are ludicrous: She pointed out that the books Jacobus excerpted, though they depict same-sex relationships, are not pornography. None of the books is actually housed in the childrens section, she said, and no library staffers are handing those books to children. On the contrary, she said, library policies already do jibe with the primary argument of parental rights groups, that its up to them to decide what materials their children can access. The library requires parents of kids under 13 to remain in the building, and mandates that parents directly supervise any children under 10. I didnt even know about Moms for Liberty, she said, and now my life is taken up with all of this. Since then, she said, men have shown up at the library quoting Scripture, including one who pushed librarians to read and distribute a stack of copies of his self-published book. (Stern contacted the police, who she said obligingly returned the books to the author.) A visitor conducted a First Amendment audit that became confrontational when staff prevented the woman from videotaping a childrens program. In April, an 8 a.m. board meeting, according to minutes, attracted more than two dozen members of the public, either to raise concerns about LGBTQ and BLM childrens books and a liberal agenda or to speak in opposition. And, in August, a local church hosted a story hour there for Brave Books, a Christian publisher whose See you at the library events have, by design, sparked controversy elsewhere. Now, though, Stern is grappling with an existential threat: The leaders of other supporting municipalities have seen Jacobus report, and some including the leaders of Franconia Township, a larger community that provides about 20% of the librarys funding said they have concerns. Whether they, too, might slash library funding in response is not yet clear. Its more than just funding, said Grey Godshall, chairman of the Franconia Board of Supervisors, who said he has heard from constituents on both sides of the issue. Its, specifically, access that young children would have to age-inappropriate material. From the township perspective, thats what were looking at. Stern said Souderton also reduced its funding to the library in the last year though its leaders said the cut was unrelated to the debates roiling other communities. We have reduced our hours, she said, which mostly affects part-time staff. We have reduced our book budget. A silent majority For Telford, Novembers borough council elections may be a turning point. They are normally sleepy affairs, the winners raking in just a few hundred votes. But this year, Cimonetti is helping to campaign for two Democratic candidates, whose victory would represent a major upset in a borough that has traditionally been Republican-run. (Currently, theres just one Democrat on the volunteer-run, seven-member council.) Their Republican opponents are also anti-establishment dominated by Jacobus slate of a far-right, Christian, Moms for Liberty-aligned candidates who call themselves Telford Tough. If they should win, along with incumbent Eric Kratz who has backed Jacobus in the library debate, they could have the clout to cut funding altogether. One of the Democratic candidates is Meredith Torres, a mother of two and a program manager for an international travel assistance company. She said her first ever political campaign was motivated by what she viewed as extreme rhetoric. I would definitely characterize this as a decisive moment for the town, she said and arguably for the region. She believes that if Telford Tough can be defeated here, it could dissuade like-minded candidates in other towns from running similar campaigns. Its starting with [defunding] the library, with this whole idea that this is the required step to protect children in our community, she said. If that sort of falls then one wonders what are the next things theyre going to focus on? Against that backdrop, the ACLU of Pennsylvanias legal director, Vic Walczak, said the warning letter from the Telford police chief to Cimonetti is particularly alarming. He said his outreach to the chief had not been acknowledged. (Floyd said he did return Cimonettis phone call, but never heard back.) The fact that they will not respond and identify precisely what speech [of hers] they think is criminal, I think just clarifies that this really was an illegal effort to intimidate, he said. Its alarming to see a police department put its thumb on the scale in a debate between two different views of America. Kaitlin Derstine, one of two Moms for Liberty members mentioned in the chiefs letter, and a supporter of the Telford Tough platform, said the truth is much simpler: We are tired of the harassment and threatening that has taken place over the last several years. People in our community have shared fears for their jobs and businesses, she said in a statement. At the librarys monthly board meeting in September, the trustees turned their discussion to marketing a Change.org petition in favor of library funding, a series of letters to the editor, and 250 yard signs with QR codes linking to the librarys website. Much of it was driven by a new strategist the library brought on last year who, as trustee Steve Boell put it, immediately became a wartime consigliere. Boell a zoning lawyer and library enthusiast from Franconia said the goal was counterprogramming, to show that theres a silent majority out there that supports the library. Stern, the library director, said the lawn signs would have been part of the plans irrespective of the pitched political battles, part of an effort to hang on to its share of municipal funding as American Relief Plan Act money has dried up. But Stern acknowledged that the timing is no coincidence. We know Telford Tough is going to be putting their signs up soon, so we want to flood the area with some positive stuff. Were trying to get out ahead of the election, she said. As a library, we dont support any candidates. We cant do that. But we do support the library. Staff writer Maddie Hanna contributed to this article. The Childrens Room inside the Indian Valley Public Library, in the borough of Telford. A Telford council member has called to defund the library over what he says are inappropriate materials. The issue now involves the ACLU, the police chief, First Amendment rights, liberal and conservative activists, culture wars, social media posts, Moms for Liberty, the LGBTQ+ community, a bitter election, and something called the Library Loophole. Read more Start your day with the Philly news you need and the stories you want all in one easy-to-read newsletter It should be partly sunny with a chance of rain toward the afternoon. Temps will reach a high of 67. In the Philadelphia area, weve seen bitter fights in school districts over masking mandates, curriculums, and books. Now the battles have stretched beyond schools to public libraries. Our lead story examines how a Moms for Liberty-aligned attack on a local library is upending politics in Telford. Taylor Allen (@TayImanAllen, morningnewsletter@inquirer.com) If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here. The Indian Valley Public Library is at the center of a heated culture war. The conflict comes amid a Telford Borough Council race that has been effectively reframed as a moral crisis. The library and its funding have become a flashpoint in the campaign driven by Christian, far-right, Moms for Liberty-aligned candidates. They swept their primaries with claims that the library has obscene material available to children. Advertisement Reminder: The Southern Poverty Law Center calls Moms for Liberty an extremist parental-rights group. Earlier this year, the Telford Council greenlit a 25% cut in the librarys funding. It also made its allocation to the library a line item that could be struck any month. Note: The American Library Association reported in September that 2023 is on track to log the highest number of attempted library book bans since it began keeping data on book challenges 20 years ago. Last year, only 16% of book challenges were in public libraries. This year, it has skyrocketed to 49%. For Telford, Novembers election for the borough council races may be a turning point. Continue reading to learn how this small and quiet borough got here. As the news spread Tuesday that a Philadelphia judge had dismissed all charges against the former police officer who shot and killed Eddie Irizarry last month, people took to Instagram to share their anger and plan a response. People were pretty open about their plans to vandalize and steal from Philadelphia businesses. Before the night was over, dozens of people broke into stores along popular shopping corridors from Center City to the Northeast to West Philadelphia, authorities said. The destruction was documented in videos through the night. By morning, 52 people had been arrested and most were between the ages of 18 and 22. Notable quote: Basically, people saw an opportunity and they took it, said Benjamin Nachum, manager of Patriot Pharmacy in North Philly, which was looted Tuesday night for the third time since it opened in 2019. Interim Police Commissioner John Stanford made clear in a news conference Tuesday night that the Irizarry supporters who marched during a peaceful protest earlier had nothing to do with the unrest that followed. Read on for a full recap of Tuesday night. What you should know today Trivia time What was the Sixers mascots name in 1982? A) Big Shot B) Franklin the Dog C) Hip Hop D) None of the above Think you know? Check your answer. What were... Sharing: How to lower your monthly student loan bill. Those first payments since the pandemic will start next month. Watching: Sen. Bob Menendez pleaded not guilty on Wednesday to his recent federal bribery indictment. Unscramble the anagram Hint: in Delaware County BURLY ROTAMETER Email us if you know the answer. Well select a reader at random to shout out here. Cheers to Carlo Silvesti, who correctly guessed Wednesdays answer: The Bates Motel. Photo of the day And thats all I have for you today. Im off to start my morning reading old Normal People reviews now that Ive finally finished the series. Thanks for starting yours with us. The latest photos coming out of Eagle Pass, Texas the once-obscure small town on the Rio Grande that has become the epicenter of a growing humanitarian crisis on Americas southern border shock the conscience. At least, they ought to. Mothers holding toddlers some of them still bleeding from their legs after encounters with the razor wire that lines the banks of the river trying desperately to push aside the sharp metal barrier. Soggy, huddled masses of hundreds of migrants trapped after reaching the U.S. side of the river. Brigades of camouflage-wearing members of the Texas National Guard cruelly throwing up even more of the concertina wire, seemingly oblivious to the cries of desperate people on the other side. Despite the abject misery, thousands more many from the ravaged, destitute nation of Venezuela want to come to Eagle Pass, or Americas other overloaded border crossings. Williams Anez, 42, says he has no choice but to risk the dangerous migration, for the future of his five children. Every day I get older and I have still not secured anything for them, Anez told the New York Times from a staging area in northern Colombia, near the start of the perilous journey. Advertisement What U.S. mom or dad couldnt sympathize with what might be the epitome of Americans beliefs around raising a child that a parent must do everything humanly possible to get their child out of harms way and on the path to a better life? I think thats why you almost never see interviews with actual refugees like Anez in the U.S. media. Putting a human face on North Americas migration crisis might spoil the bitter politics of national identity driving America ever downward. Taking about migrants as human beings with names and stories of trying to flee abject poverty and political or gang violence certainly would have spoiled the demagoguery at Wednesday nights second Republican presidential debate. At Californias Reagan Library, the gaggle of Donald Trump wannabes engaged in what one outlet called a bidding war over whod be toughest in repelling refugees rebranded as invaders. The GOP White House hopefuls live in a fantasy world where the border crisis is all about drugs or terrorism or cartels, making it easy for Vivek Ramaswamy to boast that he would militarize the border and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis whod previously said that hed have drug dealers summarily executed promising to send the troops into Mexico to wage war on cartels. Or course, none of these folks have a snowballs chance in the Arizona desert of getting anywhere near the Oval Office, but the Republican who does would be 10 times worse. Trumps immigration henchman Stephen Miller (remember him?) told Axios recently that a Trump 47 presidency would include steps like screening would-be arrivals for Marxist tendencies, employing the Navy in a blockade targeting drug smugglers, expanding the so-called Muslim ban to even more countries, and opening a door to possible military adventures in Mexico. Based on the dismal border record of Trump 45, I fear it would be far worse. So voters in 2024 will face a choice between the thinly veiled fascism of Republican policies, or the flawed approaches employed so far by President Joe Biden whose road to naked political expediency has been paved with good intentions. Bidens dilemma has been trying to uphold the law migrants are entitled to make a case for political asylum in the United States while somehow trying to reduce the number of Central Americans and others so desperate to make that plea. In reality, that has meant continuing some of the more noxious policies of the Trump administration, and keeping refugees in squalid conditions in Mexico. But the humanitarian crisis wont end as long as we keep throwing the dismal sandbag of xenophobic nationalism against a human flood caused by sins that have been decades in the making the endless meddling of U.S. imperialism in Central and South American politics, the gross income inequality that motivates millions to leave their homeland, and, increasingly, the ravages of climate change caused disproportionately by American pollution. If we dont want to see those images on TV of people huddled at the border in Texas or Arizona, think hard about how to change immigration policy so that people dont need to cross in that inhumane way, Elizabeth Oglesby, associate professor in the University of Arizonas Center for Latin American Studies, told me this week. She noted that the biggest problems have come less from White House policy than from Congress longstanding failure to pass immigration reform, which could open new pathways, especially for guest workers who could help with the current wave of U.S. job openings. READ MORE: The young Honduran drowned in Greg Abbotts Texas had a name: Norlan Bayardo Herrera In this falls surge of crossings at the southern border, its a safe bet that most Americans especially the ones on the couch getting their blood pressure raised by Fox News know that most of the refugees at Eagle Pass are coming from Venezuela, the once-oil-rich nation that has been ravaged by the disastrous regime now led by President Nicolas Maduro. United Nations experts say that the refugee crisis from Venezuela with as many as 7 million people fleeing in recent years is equivalent to the crisis in Ukraine, a situation that attracts billions of dollars in U.S. aid, not scorn. Why would a young mother and her kids risk drowning in the Rio Grande, or getting sliced by Texas Gov. Greg Abbotts razor wire and buoys interspersed with circular-saw blades? Maybe Americans would know the answer if there was any attention at all paid to the conditions those millions are fleeing. In Venezuela, it costs $372 a month to feed a family of four, but a public school teacher earns only $3 a month. People are dying from treatable diseases because the health system has imploded. Most experts agree that Venezuelas economic crisis has been exacerbated at least by a little, and probably by a lot by harsh U.S. economic sanctions targeting the Maduro regime that were imposed in 2019, by the same Donald Trump who gets so much political mileage from demagoguing the border crisis. Yet any U.S. politician like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez who states the obvious telling CBS Face the Nation that U.S. sanctions certainly took a large part in the driving of populations to our southern border gets ripped by our jingoistic media. A smarter sanctions policy would help certainly much more so than the GOPs proposed Pancho Villa-era solution of sending Marines to Vera Cruz. So would American aid and policies aimed at improving conditions in Central and South America so their residents would not be so desperate to leave (the Biden administration knows this, yet the problems are overwhelming). Radically reducing our carbon pollution could mitigate the prolonged droughts in so many Latin American nations that are forcing farmers to join the mass migration. In a twist on the famous Ike and Tina Turner riff, we never, ever do immigration policy nice, or complicated. We like to do things easy, and rough. Confronting a refugee crisis thats not halfway around the world but surging across our own border has brought out the absolute worst in us. You see that in a place like Eagle Pass, where a Border Patrol agent can reportedly watch a migrant drown in the Rio Grande and do nothing, or where the armed goons employed by Governor Abbott experiment with various saw blades or types of razor wire like a World War II torture doctor. But you also see it 1,500 miles to the north on the streets of Staten Island, where protesters have blocked buses of migrants while screaming, Youre not welcome! And politicians from New Yorks Democratic mayor Eric Adams to Ramaswamy, the son of immigrants, pander to these baser instincts. How America responds to refugees is a test of the nations soul, and we are failing. There are much better ways to do this than slicing open the legs of toddlers funding more immigration judges and more humane processing facilities instead of squandering billions on Abbotts tin soldiers and other wasteful policies, or figuring out how to accommodate more of these potential workers, who would boost the economy. But were not going to do those things until our political leaders and the media stop treating these human beings as alien invaders from Mars, instead of as our brothers and sisters who share the same planet. READ MORE: SIGN UP: The Will Bunch Newsletter Supporters rally outside of Philadelphia Municipal Court on Tuesday in the wake of a judge dismissing all charges against Philadelphia Police Officer Mark Dial, who shot and killed Eddie Irizarry last month. Read more You want to know how long even the whiff of justice lasts around here? Last week came the welcome (and rare) reminder that police are not above the law at least theyre not supposed to be when a judge revoked the bail of Philadelphia Police Officer Mark Dial, who was accused of first-degree murder for killing Eddie Irizarry in Kensington on Aug. 14. On Tuesday, Municipal Court Judge Wendy L. Pew dismissed all the charges against Dial, ruling that prosecutors had failed to present evidence that the officer had committed a crime when he shot Irizarry as he sat in his car. I was struck that the judge agreed there was a lack of evidence because the evidence that the public has seen so far is damning. Advertisement The Police Department, you might remember, initially told all of us that Dial and his partner had stopped Irizarry for driving the wrong way down a one-way street, and that Irizarry had gotten out of his car and lunged at them with his knife. In that scenario, the evidence suggested that Dial had fired his weapon (at near point-blank range) because his life was in mortal danger. Except ... none of that was true. Video evidence from police body cameras and nearby home security systems showed that Irizarry was sitting in his car, with his windows up, when Dial and his partner pulled next to Irizarrys vehicle. Irizarry had a knife in his hand but made no attempt to get out of his car or to threaten the officers. Dial fired six shots at Irizarry within seconds of stepping out of his police cruiser. Another piece of evidence that seems troubling: Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw fired Dial for refusing to cooperate with the Police Departments own investigators when they tried to piece together what happened that night. Despite Dials partner testifying in court that in the moments before the shooting, he told Dial that Irizarry appeared to be holding a knife, Dials lawyers who argued their client acted in self-defense leaned hard into audio that they said sounded like his partner said there was a gun. But there was no gun. No. Gun. And this bears repeating as well: Irizarry was inside his car, with the windows rolled up. So the assertion that Dial and his partner were reacting to a situation in which they believed Irizarry presented an imminent threat to their safety just doesnt add up. (District Attorney Larry Krasners office appealed the ruling in an attempt to refile the charges. A hearing on that request is scheduled for next month.) Werent police supposed to learn something about nonlethal options in confrontations from the fatal shooting of Walter Wallace Jr. in 2020? Wallace, a mentally distressed Black man who was holding a knife, was fatally shot by police outside his West Philadelphia home, just five months after the police murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis sparked national outrage over police brutality. In the wake of Floyds death, cities across the country including Philadelphia pledged to review police practices and policies. And yet here we are. Some have said the fault lies with Krasner for charging the officer with first-degree murder. Even the detective investigating the shooting said he had recommended Dial be charged with voluntary manslaughter not murder. It was a tragedy, many insist, not a crime. It was both, and characterizing it as anything but especially with video evidence is nothing more than Back the Blue bellicism. Outside the courthouse, Irizarrys aunt Zoraida Garcia told reporters, The officers can go out here and kill a person thats not doing anything and get away with murder, because this is what it was. Shes right, and the message loud and clear to this family, to this community, and to this city is that police in Philadelphia are untouchable. That those post-Floyd police reckonings were a farce, a reckoning in name only. At this point, we shouldnt be surprised by cops in this city getting away with just about anything, from exaggerating injuries to get time off, to assaulting residents, to hanging out with Proud Boys, to murder aided every step of the way by systems that embolden police to act with impunity. Today they went 1,000 steps backward, and they shattered the faith we have in the justice system, Charito Morales of Philly Boricuas, a grassroots organization of Puerto Ricans organizing the diasporic community in Philadelphia, said Tuesday after learning of the ruling. I agree on those 1,000 steps backward, with a lot more zeros added. But I got stuck on the word faith. Because I increasingly wonder how anyone in this city can possibly have any faith in our unapologetically broken systems. The answer always comes from the most unexpected corners of Philly; from people who have long been neglected and mistreated by public institutions and officials, but who dont have the luxury of tapping out or giving up. People like Eddie Irizarrys family, who, like so many bereaved families in Philadelphia, are forced to put their grief on hold to seek justice. The family is angry, justifiably so. But what I see and hear, in addition to that anger, is an extraordinary amount of faith as well. Faith that if they just keep fighting, keep pushing, there might one day be justice. If not for their loved one, then for someone elses. After the ruling, members of Irizarrys family cried out in the courtroom. And later, they marched around Center City with about 100 supporters to protest the judges decision. We need to hear those cries and join them in the fight. Because this fight for justice doesnt belong to just one family. It belongs to us all. Angela West poses at her home on Aug. 25, 2022. She was turned down for four jobs in two years because, in 2004, she worked in a group home for children where a doctor made allegations of child abuse. All seven staffers who worked there were put on the ChildLine Registry. West says she didn't even know she was on the list until she tried to get another job. West is a petitioner in a Commonwealth Court lawsuit alleging that the lack of a chance to defend oneself before getting placed on the registry violates the Pennsylvania Constitution. Read more When it comes to protecting children, Pennsylvania has many safeguards in place. Those who work with children, such as teachers and day-care workers, are required to get criminal background checks. Any employer can check arrest and conviction records publicly available through the Pennsylvania State Police. The local and statewide government agencies charged with protecting our kids have their own records, too the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, for instance, keeps track of who has been accused of maltreatment, whether such findings are substantiated, and what steps have been taken to protect children, and uses it for investigations and recommending actions when children are in danger. But states maintain an additional level of monitoring to protect children: public registries that list adults who have been accused of maltreatment. In Pennsylvania, this is known as the ChildLine and Abuse Registry. Any employer hiring for positions that may include interactions (even brief) with children, ranging from home health workers to hospital staff, has access to the registry. From its name, you would think the ChildLine and Abuse Registry is a list of monsters. But people convicted of horrible crimes such as child sexual abuse are handled by law enforcement, and thus appear on criminal background checks or in records maintained by the Pennsylvania State Police. (And anyone convicted of child sexual abuse will appear on the Pennsylvania Sex Offender Registry, which is also publicly available.) Advertisement Instead, the ChildLine registry is made up of many regular moms and dads disproportionately Black who ended up on the registry for reasons other than outright abuse. These include parents who had children who developed a severe diaper rash and were reported by a health-care provider, who brought their child to the hospital for an accidental injury that someone thought looked suspicious, and who were unable to take their child to a series of medical appointments. Rather than protecting kids, the registry bars people from a whole host of jobs over their lifetime which, in turn, makes it harder for them to care for their children. To be clear: Child abuse is a real problem. But ChildLine is not the answer. In a yearlong study conducted by law students at Penn Carey and Temple Law Schools, we found that Black people are placed on the registry at nearly twice the rate of their numbers in the general population: Black people make up 12% of the population in Pennsylvania, but 23% of the people placed on the registry. In certain counties, this rate was closer to three times. And those placed on the registry are young, with three-quarters of people under the age of 39, and nearly half under the age of 30. The younger you are added to the list, the more impact it has on you, because you are on the registry for life. Why the disproportionate numbers? There is research to suggest that people can be influenced by bias when reporting child abuse, with health-care providers more likely to report abuse or neglect in Black families than white families. Neglect is especially problematic, because its definition involves subjective assessments such as failure to supervise or provide the adequate essentials of life, often conflated with poverty. As the research illustrates, the story of ChildLine is yet another tale of the oversurveillance of Black communities this time by the child regulation system. If we care about racial justice, we need to upend the assumption that the registry is about keeping children safe. The registry compounds the racial harms that it fosters by creating barriers to employment for Black workers: Once a parent is on the registry, they are barred from all kinds of jobs. Before 2015, only employers hiring childcare workers and school employees would run an applicants name through ChildLine. After the Jerry Sandusky scandal, the legislature expanded the kind of jobs that require a child abuse clearance, and there are 49% more clearances requested now than a decade ago. Employers request clearances even if they are not legally required. In our research, we learned about child abuse clearances required from home health-care agencies that exclusively worked with elderly people, hospitals with administrative staff who worked remotely, and warehouse workers on the off chance that the warehouse was located near a school. Here is where the racial harms compound: Labor statistics show that Black workers are overrepresented in the very occupations that tend to require clearances. I believe Pennsylvania needs to consider abolishing the ChildLine and Abuse Registry. READ MORE: A state registry claims to protect children. It locks Black parents out of jobs, researchers say I realize the idea of abolishing the registry is politically fraught. But I havent seen any evidence that the registry is keeping kids safe, yet there is plenty of evidence to show its doing harm to the families its meant to protect. Rather, in the last decade, the number of substantiated cases of child abuse has increased, rising from 3,164 cases in 2012 to 4,992 in 2022, suggesting the registry isnt working. What would it look like if Pennsylvania got rid of the registry? Here, we have an example to consider. In 2020, Georgia abolished its registry, and employers must now rely on already existing tools of criminal record checks to screen potential employees. In 2022, Melissa Carter, the executive director of the Barton Child Law and Policy Center at Emory University, noted that, so far, there is no evidence anecdotal or otherwise that the repeal of the registry has led to an increase in child abuse in the state. Abolishing Pennsylvanias child abuse registry wont happen overnight. In the meantime, child protective services agencies both in Philadelphia and throughout the commonwealth should track and release more data related to the racial impacts of the registry. Officials must keep following these data, and the results of other regions like Georgia that rely on other tools besides the child abuse registry to keep kids safe. Together, we can work to create a world where Pennsylvanias children are safe without a registry. Jennifer Lee is an associate professor of law at Temple Law School. Pedestrians navigate the damage from vandalism at South 52nd and Walnut Streets on Wednesday. The unrest stretched across the city, including Center City, the Northeast, and West Philadelphia, with business corridors along Aramingo Avenue and Walnut Street targeted through the night. Read more The looting that erupted across Philadelphia Tuesday night shows how many people feel free to act out with impunity. Scores of masked individuals, including many juveniles, broke into Center City stores and stole merchandise including iPads from Apple, clothing from Lululemon, and sneakers from Foot Locker. Smash-and-grabs continued for hours along retail corridors stretching from the Northeast to West Philadelphia. More than 20 people were arrested as police worked to restore order. It was a baptism by fire for John Stanford, who was appointed acting police commissioner last week by outgoing Mayor Jim Kenney. Hours before the looting began, Stanford also confronted the backlash after a judge dismissed the murder charges against former Police Officer Mark Dial, who shot Eddie Irizarry as he sat in his car with the windows closed following a police stop for driving erratically in Kensington. READ MORE: In their plans to reduce crime, a window into the mayoral candidates views on public safety | Editorial Advertisement Stanford was quick to say the looting was unrelated to the court ruling that set Dial free. That was evident in the peaceful protests that erupted after the judges decision protests that rightly demanded accountability for what police body camera footage shows was a deadly use of force. Still, some of those who took part in the unrest Tuesday unjustifiably invoked Irizarrys name as the evening unfolded. One woman shouted, Rest well, Eddie, while she livestreamed the vandalization of a liquor store. If nothing else, the looting and Irizarrys shooting crystalize the profound tension that exists in our city between protecting both the public and individual civil rights. The record increase in gun violence and murders has many Philadelphians living in fear. But the rise in retail thefts, burglaries, and stolen cars is emblematic of a broader breakdown that threatens to further chase residents, tourists, and businesses from the city. Stores like Target and CVS now lock up basic products such as deodorant and diapers behind plexiglass. Several retailers, including Wawa, have closed stores in Philadelphia, citing robberies and safety concerns. Many point to District Attorney Larry Krasners decision to effectively decriminalize shoplifting goods under $500 as sending a message that people are free to take what they want. In fact, acting Commissioner Stanford described the looters as criminal opportunists. He then voiced the frustration of many: Our city cant afford this nonsense. This is a perilous time for Philadelphia. Many office buildings have sat empty since the pandemic, and the population is dropping. Crime, poverty, and failing schools remain seemingly intractable challenges despite a 50% increase in city spending under Kenney. The mayor is a lame duck who checked out long ago. The City Council presidency is up for grabs. The district attorney is a former civil rights lawyer who sued dozens of cops and is disliked by them for his soft-on-crime approach. At the last check, Krasners office itself was saddled with low morale and personnel churn. Meanwhile, the city is without a permanent police commissioner until a new mayor arrives in January, and the acting commissioner said his own mother doesnt feel safe. The dysfunction and absentee leadership leave residents on edge and feeling like theyre on their own. READ MORE: Cherelle Parker ran on a bold crime-fighting plan. Now she must make it work. | Editorial Cherelle Parker, who is likely to be elected mayor in November, won the Democratic primary with a tough-on-crime message that includes the controversial use of stop-and-frisk. Parker condemned the looting in an interview with The Inquirer on Wednesday, and emphasized the need to bring some order back to our city. But it is essential that she restore order without violating civil rights. In the early 1990s, police used stop-and-frisk to crack down on petty offenses, arguing it prevented more serious crimes. But the practice was found unconstitutional, as police targeted mostly young Black and Hispanic men, who ended up stigmatized and with long arrest records and fines. In too many cases, the cops killed suspects as routine stops escalated into violent confrontations often captured on cell phone video. The harrowing 2020 Minneapolis police murder of George Floyd, who was accused of paying for cigarettes with a counterfeit $20 bill, led to calls to defund the police as the pendulum swung from tough-on-crime to diversion policies. Parker must strike a balance. But the city cant afford to wait for her. Safety without the abuse of authority must be restored now. This year marks 70 years since the United States and South Korea signed their Mutual Defense Treaty. The relationship has grown from a key security alliance into a vital global partnership, one that's broadening in scope and significance seemingly every day, said Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a speech to the Center for Strategic and International Studies. We have been strengthening all aspects of our partnership, starting with our security, said Secretary Blinken: That commitment to mutual defense is ironclad. And that starts with extended deterrence, particularly in the face of the DPRKs provocative actions, including its missile launches, which violate multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions and undermine stability on the peninsula and beyond. In August, President Joe Biden hosted South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for a historic Camp David summit where they discussed how to strengthen cooperation on a range of shared priorities, said Secretary Blinken: The leaders emphasized their shared commitment to a rules based order that includes freedom of navigation, peaceful resolution of disputes. They also reaffirmed the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait as an indispensable element of security and prosperity for the entire international community. The United States and South Korea are also intensifying their economic partnership, said Secretary Blinken: Since the KORUS Free Trade Agreement was approved, bilateral trade has surged dramatically over the last two years alone. Korean companies have invested more than $100 billion in the United States. Driving innovation, creating good jobs for Americans and Korean workers alike. Finally, we're putting our partnership to work in driving peace and security around the world, said Secretary Blinken: That includes in Ukraine, where Korea, under President Yoon, has been a valued partner in supporting Kiev in the face of Russia's brutal war and in its defense of principles at the heart of the international order and the United Nations Charter. Sovereignty. Territorial independence. Freedom. As a result of the war in Ukraine, the transatlantic and Indo-Pacific are closer than ever before, said Secretary Blinken. Korea, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand are now regular participants in NATO meetings. The United States looks forward to continuing to strengthen the US-South Korea partnership in the years ahead. Yvonne Blake, 72, owner of Hakims Bookstore, poses for a portrait at her bookstore in West Philadelphia on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2023. Read more When I first walked into Hakims Bookstore in 2015, the landmark West Philadelphia shop was in danger of closing for good. So it felt near miraculous to return to Philadelphias oldest Black bookstore recently as owner Yvonne Blake prepared to celebrate the installation of an official state historical marker in its honor. A lot happened in the ensuing years, but through ups and downs, Hakims still stands, as much a part of our citys present as its past. And hopefully, its future. It is necessary, Blake said of the family store. Advertisement Eight years ago, however, it didnt feel that way. The weight of trying to salvage the shop hung over Blake as she and I sat in her back office talking about its uncertain prospects. She had promised her father shed keep the bookstore open, she told me then. But she was no longer sure that was a promise she could keep. The bookstore, founded in 1959 by her late father, Dawud Hakim, has been a staple on the historically Black-owned 52nd Street business corridor. Hakim, who died in 1997, was still working for the post office when he read J.A. Rogers 100 Amazing Facts About the Negro and became determined to show his community its greatness through books about its contributions in every aspect of life. Just as the blue and yellow marker outside the shop reads, Hakims served as a civil rights and activism gathering place, where Black education and empowerment were cultivated through thought-provoking literature that covered the African diaspora. But when I visited in 2015, Blake who had just left a full-time job and was caring for her ailing mother was desperately trying to shepherd the store on her own. She feared growing challenges, including a changing book business landscape, would mean the end to her familys bookstore and her fathers legacy. And after meeting with her, I couldnt just stand by and let that happen. Not without a fight. So I implored readers to help save the bookstore and, in the process, a vital part of Philadelphia history. The response was immediate and incredible and reinforced my belief that when Philadelphia throws its support behind its sacred spaces, anything is possible. Ive never been someone who could ask for help, Blake said. But people just showed up and reached out and wanted to help any way they could. Supporters from all over Philadelphia and the country called and wrote, eager not only to share memories about her father and the bookstore but also to buy books. Tariq Black Thought Trotter of the Philly hip-hop group The Roots shared the column on social media, urging people to #savehakims. One supporter, Christopher Arnold, walked into the bookstore in 2016 and stayed on as a do-it-all volunteer focusing on community engagement. I was a native Philadelphian, and I had never heard of the store, Arnold recalled during my most recent visit. To find out that there was a bookstore with the kinds of materials that were not included in my formal education made me want to know what I was missing. He wasnt alone. Through a pandemic that shuttered other small businesses, civil unrest after the murder of George Floyd by police, and current right-wing campaigns to ban books about Black history, Hakims has once again become a center of education and empowerment. Its amazing to think that here we are, 64 years later, fighting some of the same battles my father fought right here, Blake said. Looking around the bookstore on a recent afternoon, it was clear that her fathers influence and impact are still everywhere, from the photos of Black leaders on the walls to the books on the shelves that range from Islamic culture to holistic health. And it was humbling to be a part of that history, memorialized by a framed copy on the wall of the original column from all those years ago. It was also clear that despite the rain Saturday when a crowd of about 100 people gathered to pay tribute to Dawud Hakim and the space he built Philadelphias oldest Black bookstore has permanently staked its rightful place in the hearts and history of our city. Its up to us to keep it going for generations to come. Go check out the historical marker, then stop in and support one of our citys treasures. And keep supporting it. The shorts were short-lived. The Senate on Wednesday unanimously passed a bill that requires members to follow a dress code that will include a coat, tie, and slacks for men, ending controversy triggered over Pennsylvania Sen. John Fettermans displaying his casual style on the floor. Though weve never had an official dress code, the events over the past week have made us all feel as though formalizing one is the right path forward, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement. I deeply appreciate Senator Fetterman working with me to come to an agreement that we all find acceptable, and of course I appreciate Sen. Manchin and Sen. Romneys leadership on this issue. The issue of a Senate dress code first came up after Schumer directed the Senates sergeant at arms to stop enforcing the unofficial dress code earlier this month. The rule change primarily impacted Fetterman, who had previously been casting votes from the cloakroom in shorts and a hoodie but not stepping onto the Senate floor in his signature casual look. Advertisement In the days following Schumers directive, Fetterman presided over the Senate in shorts and a black short sleeve button-up shirt, prompting continued outcry, largely from Republicans, who called it an insult to the decorum and tradition of the body. The ditched dress code had been the most talked-about issue in Congress, even as a government shutdown lingers, something Fetterman had mocked as he observed the hullabaloo unfolding around him. He even tried to use the promise of formal wear as political bait. If those jagoffs in the House stop trying to shut our government down, and fully support Ukraine, then I will save democracy by wearing a suit on the Senate floor next week, he said last week. Ultimately, Fetterman voted for the dress code legislation along with all of his colleagues, and he told CNN he will wear a suit and tie on the floor. Casual dress will still be permitted in the cloakroom at the edge of the chamber, where Fetterman and other members can stand to cast votes. The bipartisan bill was cosponsored by Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Utah Republican Sen. Mitt Romney. It does not address what women should wear. The sudden resignation this week of Mike Vereb, Gov. Josh Shapiros top liaison to the General Assembly, followed an accusation that hed sexually harassed an aide earlier this year, according to documents reviewed by The Inquirer and sources familiar with the matter. Verebs accuser, who worked for him for less than two months before resigning her position in March, said he repeatedly made sexual advances toward her and lewd remarks about other staffers and a female state senator. Ultimately, the accuser alleged, when she reported his behavior to higher-ups in Shapiros office, Vereb retaliated against her. I was uncomfortable with how Mike was acting in the office his constant sexually charged comments, and how he was addressing work-related issues, the woman said in a March 22 statement to investigators with the state Office of Equal Employment Opportunity, part of the executive branch. The statement and a separate complaint that the accuser filed with the independent state Human Relations Commission in June were both obtained by The Inquirer this week. Vereb, 56, whom Shapiro appointed to his cabinet in January as his Secretary of Legislative Affairs, did not respond to multiple requests for comment. His accuser whose name The Inquirer is withholding because of her sexual harassment allegations declined to comment. Advertisement But the documents detailing her allegations shed new light on the circumstances leading up to the abrupt resignation of a man who had been one of Shapiros top allies in Harrisburg for two decades. They come months after an earlier sexual misconduct scandal rocked Democrats in Harrisburg, prompting the resignation of then-Rep. Mike Zabel (D., Delaware), and raised questions about when the governors office was first informed of the womans accusations against Vereb and what steps the administration may have taken to address them. A spokesperson for the governor declined to answer questions Thursday about the womans allegations or Verebs departure, saying the decision was a private personnel matter. But, the spokesperson said, the Shapiro administration takes allegations of discrimination and harassment seriously. Robust procedures are in place for thoroughly investigating reports of discrimination and harassment, said Shapiro press secretary Manuel Bonder in a statement. These procedures are implemented whenever complaints of discrimination or harassment are made and provide detailed guidance to help ensure that allegations are promptly and fully investigated and that employees feel comfortable to report misconduct. It remains unclear just how far the complaint against Vereb progressed through the investigative process of the EEO and the Human Relations Commission both of which handle complaints of workplace discrimination from government employees and typically conduct their probes in secret. The commissions chief counsel declined to confirm the existence of a complaint, discuss the extent to which it had an opportunity to vet the accusers account, or whether the governors office had been notified. Under the state statute laying out the commissions process, implicated parties must be notified of allegations filed against them within 30 days. Chuck Pascal, a lawyer representing Verebs accuser, said Wednesday that a complaint was filed to the commission in June, but declined to discuss the allegations it contained. Pascal added in a statement that he cannot at this time confirm the existence of any settlement, agreement, or other resolution of this matter. State Rep. Abby Major (R., Armstrong) said that Verebs accuser confided in her about her experiences with the secretary in March, after Major came forward with her own accusations of sexual harassment by Zabel. Verebs accuser later shared a copy of the complaint with her in July, saying it had been filed with the Human Relations Commission a month prior. Accuser reported inappropriate conversations with Vereb The womans accusations gained new notice in the last week as copies of her supposedly confidential complaint and statement to EEO investigators began circulating among lawmakers and lobbyists in Harrisburg, prompting hushed conversations about Vereb and his future with the governors office. In the statement, the accuser detailed how she leaped at the chance to work for the Shapiro administration when she was offered a job in January after 19 years working in politics. He is a one-of-a-kind leader and I felt compelled to work for this type of leader when offered the opportunity, she wrote of Shapiro. I took a $25,000 pay cut to come into that role. But within days, she said, her excitement had turned into discomfort. Vereb made repeated suggestive comments and innuendos that left her feeling uneasy, she claimed in the document. The accuser alleged that, within weeks, other staffers in Shapiros administration were making jokes about a relationship between her and Vereb and warning her that hed faced earlier misconduct accusations from women. The accuser maintains that when she warned Vereb about the office gossip in February, he turned on her and demanded to know who had been discussing his past. He then made sexual advances toward her, the complaint states, insisting that if they decided to have a sexual relationship it would be our business. If you decided you wanted to do that, Vereb allegedly told the woman, according to her complaint, Go close the door to this office, tell me to bend you over this conference table, hike your skirt up and [have sex with her]. . That would be our decision to make. She told investigators Vereb suggested she wear lower-cut tops and higher-slit skirts and compared her to another female staffer whom he said he wasnt interested in sexually because she was a type A personality who would probably make [him] iron her sheets and pillow cases before having sex. Thats just not my style or the way I like to have sex, Vereb said, according to the accusers statement. When the accuser reiterated that she wasnt interested in Vereb, she said, he uttered an obscenity and raised his middle finger. Their conversation continued later that night following a reception at the governors mansion, the woman would later claim in her complaint. An apparently inebriated Vereb called her to again suggest a sexual encounter saying he knew how to hide from security cameras in the tunnels under the Capitol and to interrogate her about who in their office was talking about them, she said in her interview statement with EEO investigators. I was physically shaking in my office, she said. I was fearful, and was not sleeping well. Days after that encounter, the complaint states, the accuser was invited to a meeting with the human resources department for the governors office. When she questioned Vereb about the meeting, he made vague references to performance concerns with her job, she said. The woman said she reported her encounters with Vereb at that meeting on March 3 and a subsequent meeting with other Shapiro administration staffers on March 6 but was confronted with vague allegations that she was performing poorly in her job. She told investigators she ultimately decided to leave her position in early March, after less than two months in the role, when staffers refused her request to be reassigned to a different position with limited contact with Vereb. In her statement, she said she decided to come forward in hopes of preventing other women from having to face the same treatment. I am scared of what he will do, the rumors he will spread, she said of Vereb. I am scared for my professional career. I am putting it all on the line because I am fearful, he will do this to someone else. Shapiro administration praised Vereb as he resigned It remains unclear when Shapiro himself first learned of the womans allegations and the extent to which the widening awareness of her account influenced Verebs decision to step down this week less than nine months after the governor had appointed him to his high-profile post. No mention of the womans allegations appeared in a news release Wednesday announcing Verebs departure. Instead, it lauded his decades serving our Commonwealth and highlighted his achievements while working with Shapiro first in the Attorney Generals Office and later in his administration as governor. The release did not include a direct statement from Shapiro, who has served alongside Vereb in various public offices since the mid-2000s. Instead, it featured remarks from the governors chief of staff, Dana Fritz, who described Vereb as a key member of our team. The relationship between Vereb, a Republican, and Shapiro, a Democrat, both of whom hail from Montgomery County, dates back decades. They served together in the state House from 2007 to 2012, with Vereb representing a West Norriton Township-based district and Shapiro representing Abington. When Shapiro was elected attorney general in 2016, he named Vereb as director of government affairs for his office one of the first appointments in the job. In the statement Wednesday, Fritz credited Vereb with securing funding for law enforcement and enhancing school safety in that role. During his stint in the governors cabinet, she said, he helped secure passage of laws to expand breast cancer screenings and the state property tax and rent rebate programs as well as helping to build bipartisan support for Shapiros first budget. But until his resignation Wednesday, the complaint against him did not appear to affect Verebs prominence within the administration. Flight records indicate he flew to Indiana, Pa., with Shapiro in mid-August to meet with Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman in an effort to end a standoff in negotiations over the governors budget proposal, after budget negotiations fell apart between Shapiro and Senate GOP leaders. And earlier this month, Vereb, a former police officer, was a constant fixture at Pennsylvania State Police command posts and news conferences during the two-week manhunt for escaped fugitive Danilo Cavalcante in Chester County, serving as a liaison between the governors office and authorities. Sen. Lindsey Williams (D., Allegheny) was one of few state lawmakers to voice concern about the allegations Thursday. I believe victims, Williams said. I am appalled by the accusations and I have a lot of questions about the retaliation she faced after speaking up. Staff writers Andrew Seidman, Vinny Vella and Sean Collins Walsh contributed to this article. Cyclist riding across the Falls Bridge over theSchuylkill River on Monday in the wake of the Ophelia-related rains. More rain is due Friday. Read more The persistent remains of Ophelia are forecast to add juice to rains across the region Friday, and with the supermoon swelling the tides, flood advisories are up for the Jersey Shore, all of South Jersey, and for Philadelphia and areas along the Delaware River. Its kind of just coming back around, Patrick OHara, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service Office in Mount Holly, said of Ophelia, which is becoming something akin to a nagging cold. A storm brewing off the Carolina coast on Thursday was forecast to ingest Ophelias soggy remnants then track northward, throwing back heavy rains, especially north and east of Philly. The rains were expected to begin Thursday night, with the heaviest falling late Friday morning, the weather service said. Advertisement A flood advisory was posted for all of South Jersey and Delaware, and areas along the Delaware River, for early Friday, with more minor flooding possible Saturday. At the Shore, minor flooding was expected around the times of high tide Thursday night through Saturday night. READ MORE: Expect an increase in nuisance flooding in the coming years, NOAA says At that level, flooding can lead to some partial or full road closures, the weather service said. While Philadelphia may miss the heaviest of the rains, a flash flood watch was up for the Trenton area and New Jersey counties to the north. OHara said that could be expanded. All that moisture is supposed to squirt up northwest, OHara said. The tidal stuff is kind of going crazy, too, with the full moon, he said. Supermoon and the winds With the moon making one of its closest approaches to Earth of the year thus the super designation and reaching 100% fullness just before 6 a.m. Friday, its influence on the tides will be near an annual maximum, according to NOAA data. Plus, steady winds from the northeast will continue to drive waves onshore and inhibit drainage of the congested back bays. The region has experienced a near weeklong sea breeze, the result of high pressure, or heavier air, to the north that has been generating winds from the east and northeast as part of its clockwise air movement. Winds gusting to maybe 25 mph on the mainland and 35 mph at the Shore on Friday wont be in a league with those of last weekend, nor should the rains, at least in the immediate Philadelphia area. Rainfall amounts of 2.5 to 4 inches were common throughout the region last weekend as Ophelia approached from the south. What was left of it sagged off the Jersey coast early in the week and meandered south. But with the warm Atlantic water temperatures, some of Ophelias moisture managed to survive. The gift that keeps on giving, said Dave Dombek, senior meteorologist with AccuWeather Inc. That moisture is forecast to add some potency to the storm. Thats a lot of juice in the air, Dombek said. Youre bringing in some deeply moist air. READ MORE: Ophelia's rains doused rain deficits in the region Brighter days ahead The clouds that returned Thursday are due to persist through Friday night, playing spoiler for the last supermoon of 2023, when the moons proximity makes it appear about 30% brighter than when it is farthest away. This is also the harvest moon, so named because before the days of electricity, it gave farmers extra light for a little overtime during the harvest season. While Friday night will be a cloud-out, the viewing should improve Saturday, when skies are predicted to be partly cloudy when the moon rises at 7:31 p.m., still at 99% fullness, and mostly clear Sunday when it still will be better than 90% full when it rises around 8 p.m. READ MORE: Fall is here, but it may feel like summer next week By the time that happens Sunday, said Dombek, the temperature may have approached 80 degrees under a daylong sun. Whats more, he said, the sun should prevail Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday with highs of 80 or better. Crawford & Company, a claims management company, had announced the return of Matt Donnelly, an executive loss adjuster, to lead its major and complex loss teams in Victoria and Tasmania. Prior to his departure and eventual return, Donnelly had worked with Crawford for over 12 and a half years. "Financial services organizations in APJ must remember that cyber criminals will always try to find new and more sophisticated ways to launch their cyberattacks as the pace of innovation in this sector increases. The rising popularity of financial aggregators and especially those organizations keen to adopt open banking practices will mean that the industry will begin to be even more dependent on the use of APIs and third-party scripts moving forward expanding attack surfaces even further, said Reuben Koh, Akamai security technology and strategy director. Highlights Buildings will be built and renovated according to the highest energy efficiency standards The project also involves the construction of a nursery and the modernisation of student housing and other academic spaces In the last ten years, the EIB has provided over 630 million in financing to Italian universities The financing operation announced today (Sept 27) comes under the EIB's REPowerEU initiative The European Investment Bank (EIB) is providing 50 million towards the upgrading and decarbonisation of Bocconi University in Milan to provide modern, sustainable, state-of-the-art facilities for students. The loan signed today (Sept 27) in Milan by EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti and Bocconi Managing Director Riccardo Taranto is the first 30 million tranche of total financing of 50 million approved by the EIB. Thanks to this EIB financing, buildings on the Bocconi campus will be built, renovated and modernised according to the highest energy efficiency standards to reduce CO2 emissions and make infrastructure more resilient to future extreme weather events. In addition, the project involves the construction of a new nursery to meet the needs of the university community and residents of the neighbourhood, in line with the university's aim of opening up to the city, as already initiated with the inauguration of the Bocconi Sport Center. Other academic spaces, including student housing, will be refurbished as part of the Milan university's decarbonisation plan. Following the work's completion at the end of 2029, more than 58 000 m of the Bocconi campus will have been refurbished thanks to this key investment. "This operation shows the EIB and Bocconi's tangible commitment to promoting innovation and environmental sustainability to create new academic opportunities and foster the professional development of young talent. The EIB is determined to promote Europe's energy transition. This financing represents a step towards creating a state-of-the-art campus from an environmental perspective and provides tangible evidence of the EIB's commitment to supporting the objectives of REPowerEU," said EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti. "We aim to improve the liveability of our campus, provide our community of students, professors and staff with teaching and work spaces of the highest quality standards, open up more to the city and react positively to the challenge of climate change. We intend to achieve carbon neutrality (direct Scope 1 and indirect Scope 2 emissions) by 2025 before focusing on net-zero objectives concerning all the other main indirect emissions. To this end, we have already had many positive results such as generating our own energy from renewable photovoltaic and geothermal sources. Furthermore, all the electricity that we acquire from third parties comes from renewable sources with a guarantee of origin, resulting in zero indirect emissions. This new operation, made possible thanks in part to the EIB loan, will enable us to continue to develop the sustainable urban campus project, helping us to further raise quality," explained Bocconi Managing Director Riccardo Taranto. The main projects financed using the resources made available by the EIB concern the demolition and reconstruction of two existing buildings (Bocconi 6/8 and Sraffa 11) to make them more energy sustainable. These two buildings will be classified as NZEB (Nearly Zero Energy Building) and aim to obtain LEED Platinum certification. Bocconi's new nursery, which is at an advanced design stage, will also have a high energy performance level. The financing announced today is part of the REPowerEU initiative supported by the EIB, which will invest an additional 30 billion over the next five years to unlock 115 billion, promoting the green transition and gradually reducing Europe's dependence on fossil fuels. The European Investment Bank (EIB) finances projects in four priority areas: infrastructure, innovation, climate and environment, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Between 2019 and 2022, the EIB Group provided 45 billion in financing for projects in Italy. Related project(s) BOCCONI CAMPUS DEVELOPMENT The Project supports the modernisation of the Bocconi University campus in Milan. It concerns the demolition of two existing large faculty buildings and their reconstruction as modern energy efficient buildings providing new facilities for academic, research and administrative use. In addition, the project also includes smaller investments in the renovation of other buildings. All the high school students who were injured in an upstate New York charter bus crash on the way to a band camp are expected to recover, according to their school superintendent. The bus, one of six carrying students from Farmingdale High School on Long Island, veered off Interstate 84 and rolled over in the center median Thursday in the town of Wawayanda, about 45 miles (72 kilometers) northwest of New York City. Two adults died and other passengers were seriously injured. Paul Defendini, superintendent of Farmingdale schools, said in a statement Saturday that some of the injured students were still struggling but all are expected to recover, Newsday reported. I know that they appreciate all the well wishes you are sending and we cant wait to welcome them back when they are ready to return, Defendini said. The bus that crashed was carrying 40 students and four adults to a band camp in Greeley, Pennsylvania, about a 30-minute drive from the accident site. It wasn`t immediately clear Sunday how many people remained in area hospitals or what their conditions were. Messages were left with state and local officials. State police said Saturday that five passengers remained in critical condition. A total of 16 students and two adults were hospitalized on Friday. The two adults who died were band director Gina Pellettiere, 43, of Massapequa, and Beatrice Ferrari, 77, of Farmingdale, a retired teacher who was serving as a chaperone on the trip. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said last Thursday that tire failure may have been to blame, but the NTSB said it was premature to speculate. Topics New York K-12 Education A Dorchester woman was sentenced recently in federal court in Boston for tax and workers compensation fraud offenses in connection with her operation of a temporary employment agency, according to officials. Dam Ngoc Luong, 70, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin to one year and one day in prison and three years of supervised release. Luong was also ordered to pay $3,993,169 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service and $155,870 in restitution to Travelers Insurance Co., according to the U.S. attorney and IRS offices in Boston. Prosecutors said Luong pleaded guilty in April to two counts of filing false corporate and individual tax returns, three counts of failure to collect and pay over employee taxes, and one count of mail fraud. According to the prosecutors, from at least 2015 through 2019, Luong owned and operated Four Seasons Temp, Inc., an agency providing temporary workers for client businesses. When collecting payments from business clients, Luong cashed most checks rather than deposit the funds into her business account. Then, on annual corporate tax returns, Luong reported to the IRS only the amounts deposited to the business account and failed to pay federal taxes on more than $14 million of the companys income. Additionally, because Luong created Four Seasons as an S-corporation, the net business income and expenses flowed through to her individual tax returns. As a result, Luong failed to report more than $3 million in pass-through income and failed to pay $885,000 in personal income taxes. As the owner of the company, Luong also had an obligation to withhold taxes from wages paid to the employees. Despite this obligation, Luong paid more than $12 million of employee wages in cash under the table. She failed to withhold taxes from the cash wages and failed to pay more than $3 million in employment taxes she owed to the IRS. Finally, Luong defrauded the firms workers compensation insurance carrier, Travelers, by concealing the cash wages paid to her employees. As a result, Luong defrauded the insurance carrier of $155,000 in premiums she should have paid, prosecutors said. Topics Fraud Workers' Compensation Talent United Insurance Brokers (UIB), the London-based international re/insurance broker, has announced an agreement to create two new companies in Peru, expanding the UIB Group footprint in South America. UIB has taken an equity stake in the two Peruvian brokers. Financial details were not provided. South Re, created by Jose Espinosa and Clara Escobar, and JEF Corredores de Seguros, headed by Ignacio Espinosa, will become UIB Corredores de Reaseguros and UIB Corredores de Seguros, respectively, as part of the groups international expansion strategy. UIBs global strategy has always been to enhance its international network by finding equally like-minded partners in the specialist services and markets that offer great value for our clients. In these latest deals, we have an equity position in these businesses, and this is not merely just a name change, according to Tim Church, CEO of UIB International Ltd., in an emailed statement. We are delighted to welcome our friends Jose, Clara, Ignacio and their teams into the group. We have worked with them for many years, and we are impressed with their achievements, Church said in the UIB release announcing the deals. We look forward to working together to enhance their services to the Peruvian market. The combination of local skills and knowledge together with the international reach of the UIB Group will offer a powerful capability to a wide range of clients, he added. UIB is an independent group and within the South American market offers re/insurance for a wide variety of industries, including aviation and aerospace, energy and construction, marine, specialty insurance, and treaty reinsurance. Source: United Insurance Brokers Topics Agencies Reinsurance A U.S. government shutdown, perhaps as soon as Saturday night, will force the National Flood Insurance Program to suspend issuing of new policies, potentially causing a major disruption for home buyers. The National Home Builders Association said that an estimated 1,300 property sales across the country could be affected every day that NFIP is shut down due to a lack of funding. NFIP has said it will not write new or renewal policies while its funding is in limbo, according to news reports. This scenario is very concerning as we have more than two months remaining in the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season and continue to experience significant coastal and inland flooding from named storms impacting the U.S., as well as other severe flooding events caused by convective storms, said Mark Friedlander, director of corporate communications for the Insurance Information Institute. Claims on existing NFIP flood policies would likely still get paid, but without new and renewal policies, thousands of daily real estate transactions for properties that require flood coverage could be derailed, Friedlander said Thursday. Many homeowners and businesses could be left exposed to catastrophic losses. On top of the shutdown, annual funding for NFIP was also due to expire Sept. 30, and Congress has so far failed to extend it, potentially creating further disruption once the shutdown is resolved. I know the flood insurance program is not perfect. I will be the first to say that, U.S. Sen. John Kennedy, R-Louisiana, said in speech on the Senate floor this month. A lot of work needs to be done on it, but the only thing worse than what we have is nothing. Kennedy said his bill to extend NFIP funding for another year was blocked in the Senate earlier this month. Some 5 million properties in the country are covered by NFIP, including 500,000 in Louisiana, he noted. The suspension of NFIP funding and policies could prompt more property owners to turn to the private flood insurance market, which has already seen significant growth in the last few years. AM Best reported in August that the number of private flood insurers in the US has qradupled, from 47 in 2016 to 198 in 2022. Neptune Flood Insurance, based in St. Petersburg, Florida, said it will remain open for business in its 48 states during any government shutdown. As Neptune is a private alternative to the NFIP, it is unaffected by the looming shutdown and can continue writing new flood insurance policies, the company said in a statement. Neptune offers higher coverage limits than NFIP, as well as other optional coverage. The communications director for Wright National Flood, which writes NFIP coverage and has its own products, said the company was focused on the potential NFIP impact from the government shutdown and declined further comment Thursday morning. Wright is one of the largest providers of NFIP coverage and offers excess coverage through Hiscox and Chubb, and products written by Lloyds of London, Wrights Rob Langrell said. The National Association of Home Builders and the National Association of Realtors urged Congress to keep the government funded, noting that the longer a shutdown, the more harm is done. We urge Congress to consider the effects of a government shutdown on federal programs that directly support the construction of new housing, help buyers or renters access housing, or provide federal permits that may be required for construction, the NAHB said in a statement. A shutdown could affect other parts of the insurance industry, including travel insurance. U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg warned on Wednesday that a partial government shutdown could disrupt air travel and said the government would need to furlough 1,000 air traffic controllers in training, Reuters news service reported. If Congress does not fund government operations before Saturday, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) estimates it would have to furlough more than 17,000 employees and halt the training. Especially when it comes to transportation, the consequences would be disruptive and dangerous, Buttigieg said at a press conference. Past federal government shutdowns caused significant delays and longer wait times for travelers, the White House said. The U.S. Travel Association said a partial shutdown would cost the U.S. travel economy as much as $140 million a day. Photo: Flooding in Louisiana in 2020. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip, File) Related: New MGA in Florida Shows More Growth in Private Flood Market Topics Louisiana Flood Tech The Florida-based company that produces a quicker way to bag leaves is now offering a tool that it says makes filling sandbags three times faster, potentially saving property owners time before floodwaters rise. The Sandbag It! is a flat but flexible plastic board that fits inside a sandbag, allowing one person to scoop and fill a bag without need of a shovel, Innovare International Inc. said in a news release this week. Typically, two or three people are needed to fill sandbags one to scoop with a shovel, one to hold the bag open and one to carry or stack the bag. The company, which produces a larger device for filling lawn leaf bags, claims the sandbagger board can increase by 300% the number of bags that can be put in place during an emergency. The price of two is about the same as a shovel, the Kissimmee-based company said. Its possible that faster sandbag placement could help reduce water damage in flood-vulnerable homes and businesses. Typically, flood damage is a major source of claims disputes after a hurricane or other weather event. Property owners who dont have flood insurance often argue that the damage was wind-related, which can result in litigation. Starting in January, many homeowners covered by Floridas state-created insurer, Citizens Property Insurance Corp., will be required by law to obtain separate flood policies in addition to the Citizens wind coverage. Topics Florida Claims Flood Source: Streetwise Reports September 28, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) This telehealth company has signed a contract with a physician network to add as many as 100,000 patients to its platform. Find out why the CEO says it is in a period of rapid growth. Reliq Health Technologies Inc. (RHT:TSX.V; RQHTF:OTCQB; A2AJTB:WKN) has signed a contract with a physician network to add as many as 100,000 patients to its iUGO telehealth platform as its chief executive officer said the company is in a period of rapid growth. "Due to our accelerating traction with large U.S. healthcare clients, we are currently adding multiple care managers and implementation specialists to support the large deployments that we are initiating in multiple states across the U.S.," Lisa Crossley said. The rapid growth "is expected to result in record revenue growth in 20204 and beyond." The company just had its first profitable quarter during the three months ending March 31 with a gain from operations of CA$731,017 YoY. It also has started scoring larger contracts for iUGO, including one with a U.S. health plan that operates in five states with more than 3,000 doctors and 1 million patients. The company is gathering "continuing momentum," Maxim analyst Allen Klee, who has rated the stock a Buy with a CA$1.75 per share target price, has written. "We believe the company has hit an inflection point of accelerating revenue and EBITDA profitability," he wrote. "Tailwinds include a significant number of larger contracts that have been won." The company will release final financial results for its fiscal year 2023, which ended June 30 in October. Crossley recently told analysts and shareholders that, according to estimates, revenues more than doubled from fiscal year 2022. The Catalyst: 'Another Substantial New Contract' Reliq said the newest contract is with a physician network with more than 300 locations across the country, including 750 physicians. It could add more than 100,000 new patients to iUGO by the end of 2025. Onboarding begins next month. "This is another substantial new contract for Reliq," Crossley said. The company expects to generate US$65 per patient per month at about 70% gross margin, she said. The iUGO platform helps manage diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure, diabetes, hypertension, and others. Patients get audible reminders to step on a scale, take their blood pressure, or prick their fingers for glucose monitoring. The information is automatically uploaded to the cloud. Drawing on data from fall detection devices, medication tracking, and vital signs, iUGO flags patients at home or in facilities who need additional monitoring. Crossley said the new client for the platform was referred by an existing skilled nursing facility network on the platform. "Healthcare customers are very conservative due to the highly regulated environment in which they operate and the critical impact their decisions have on the health and safety of their patients," Crossley said. "The fact that Reliq acquires so many of our clients through referrals and word of mouth is a testament to our unique value proposition in this market." An Increasingly Important Part of Healthcare According to a report by Allied Market Research, an increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases is fueling the expansion of remote patient monitoring like Reliq's platform and other telemedicine services. "The approach has strikingly evolved in the last decade, and it is becoming an increasingly important part of the healthcare infrastructure," the report said. The telehealth market was valued at US$128.12 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow to US$504.24 billion by 2030, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.7%, according to Fortune Business Insights. The COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill and put many burdens on healthcare workers. "This has opened new market opportunities for digital health platforms," according to the report. iUGO Expansions Reliq recently announced it has expanded the platform to cover remote monitoring for pediatric patients with diabetes and other conditions. The company said it expects to add more than 3,000 pediatric patients to iUGO by Q2 2024 through existing contracts with home health agencies in Texas. It also recently announced a post-discharge program for acute hospitals on iUGO. Called iUGO Care, it supports patients being discharged from an acute care hospital to their homes, inpatient rehabilitation, assisted living, or skilled nursing facilities. Hospitals can be assessed penalties of up to 3% of total Medicare reimbursement for the following year if they don't meet targets reducing readmissions, which could mean millions of dollars in lost revenue, Reliq said. [OWNERSHIP_CHART-9012] More than 96% of all hospitals in Florida were assessed financial penalties in 2021 because of the issue. Over 2,300 U.S. hospitals will pay more than US$320 million in such penalties in 2023, according to Kaiser Health News. Ownership and Share Structure About 8% of Reliq's shares are owned by insiders, including Crossley, with 1.6% or 3.22 million shares. About 0.3% of the company is owned by institutional investors, including FNB Wealth Management, with 0.01% or 0.03 million shares, according to Reuters. Other top investors include Eugene Beukman, who owns 0.11% or 0.23 million shares, and Brian Storseth, who owns 0.07% or 0.14 million shares, Reuters said. Crossley said 91.7% of the company is retail. The company has 203 million shares outstanding, with about 200 million free-floating. It has a market cap of CA$99.42 million and trades in a 52-week range of CA$0.76 and CA$0.375. More Info: This news is published on the Investorideas.com Newswire - a global digital news source for investors and business leaders Disclaimer/Disclosure: Investorideas.com is a digital publisher of third party sourced news, articles and equity research as well as creates original content, including video, interviews and articles. Original content created by investorideas is protected by copyright laws other than syndication rights. Our site does not make recommendations for purchases or sale of stocks, services or products. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All investing involves risk and possible losses. This site is currently compensated for news publication and distribution, social media and marketing, content creation and more. 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That's all it takes to get an article published on Investor Ideas - Learn More CHICAGO - September 28, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Workers at five Sunnyside Dispensaries - a subsidiary of multi-state cannabis operator Cresco - have reached tentative agreements for first union contracts with Teamsters Local 777. "Two years ago, we didn't have any cannabis workers under a collective bargaining agreement. Including these agreements, we have more than 15 contracts throughout the industry. The Teamsters are protecting and raising standards for workers in the cannabis industry," said Jim Glimco, Local 777 President. "I attribute this incredible success to the dedication, bravery and brilliance of the workers in this craft." The contracts at the dispensaries in Elmwood Park, South Beloit, Schaumburg, Rockford, and Buffalo Grove, Ill., contain significant improvements, including an end to at-will employment and the right to representation during disciplinary matters, scheduling based on seniority, a successorship clause in the event that the dispensary is sold, paid meal and rest breaks, paid time off, paid holidays, and 15 percent wage increases over the lifetime of the agreement. "At this rate it won't be long before nearly every cannabis retailer throughout Illinois is covered under a Teamsters contract, and we don't plan on stopping there," said Peter Finn, Teamsters Western Region International Vice President and Director of the Teamsters Food Processing Division. "We're fighting across the country to do something for this industry that should've been done a long time ago - take cannabis out of the black market and make it an industry full of good, middle-class union jobs." Ratification votes will be completed for all five locations by the end of next week. Founded in 1937, Teamsters Local 777 represents workers in a wide variety of industries throughout the Chicago area. For more information, go to Teamsters777.org/. Contact: Matt McQuaid, (202) 624-6877 mmcquaid@teamster.org Disclaimer/Disclosure: Investorideas.com is a digital publisher of third party sourced news, articles and equity research as well as creates original content, including video, interviews and articles. Original content created by investorideas is protected by copyright laws other than syndication rights. Our site does not make recommendations for purchases or sale of stocks, services or products. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All investing involves risk and possible losses. This site is currently compensated for news publication and distribution, social media and marketing, content creation and more. Disclosure is posted for each compensated news release, content published /created if required but otherwise the news was not compensated for and was published for the sole interest of our readers and followers. Contact management and IR of each company directly regarding specific questions. More disclaimer info: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp Learn more about publishing your news release and our other news services on the Investorideas.com newswire https://www.investorideas.com/News-Upload/ and tickertagstocknews.com Global investors must adhere to regulations of each country. Please read Investorideas.com privacy policy: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Private_Policy.asp Source: Nicholas Cortellucci September 28, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Despite ongoing positive news, this firm's stock price is down 23% from its July high, noted an Atrium Research report. Jericho Energy Ventures Inc. (JEV:TSX.V; JROOF:OTC; JLM:FSE) announced three important developments, seemingly ignored by the market, during this month of September, Atrium Research analyst Nicholas Cortellucci in a September 26 research note. Good Time To Buy Accordingly, Atrium reiterated its CA$0.50 per share target price on the Canadian energy company, now trading at CA$0.255 per share, Cortellucci noted. The difference between the current and target prices implies a significant return for investors of 96%. Cortellucci also pointed out that Jericho's stock price is down 23% from its high of CA$0.33 per share in July, despite ongoing positive news since. "We view the pullback as a buying opportunity ahead of boiler sales orders," the analyst added. Jericho remains a Buy. New Catalysts Lasts Longer Most recently, durability testing on H2U's new iridium-free catalyst showed strong results, Cortellucci reported. H2U is Jericho's portfolio company of which it owns 6.5%. Testing showed the new catalyst has a projected lifetime of 25,000 hours, which compares to the 1,0001,500 hours with current iridium-free catalysts. Thus, H2U's catalysts are projected to last at least six years when used for certain applications. Testing involved operating the new catalyst continuously for 4,000 hours and at a ten times higher density. "[These results] represented a significant milestone on H2U's path to addressing bottlenecks in the sustainable hydrogen supply chain that uses proton exchange membrane electrolyzers," Cortellucci wrote. Green Hydrogen Supplier Secured In other news, reported Cortellucci, Jericho's partner in the European Union, Exogen, signed a memorandum of understanding on September 19 with Lhyfe SA, a green hydrogen producer and supplier. Lhyfe will supply Exogen with hydrogen for its hydrogen steam plant, equipped with Hydrogen Technologies' zero-emissions DCC boiler. "Lhyfe also plans to build and operate green hydrogen production facilities for the combined product offering," noted Cortellucci. Another Patent Received Lastly, on September 12, Hydrogen Technologies, developer of the DCC boiler, was granted another patent in the U.S. for it, reported Cortellucci. Two other related patent applications are pending with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. What To Watch For Along with orders for the DCC boiler, Cortellucci indicated that near-term stock catalysts include drill results and production growth from its joint venture oil and gas assets in Oklahoma, as well as any funding awards by the government. More Info: This news is published on the Investorideas.com Newswire - a global digital news source for investors and business leaders Disclaimer/Disclosure: Investorideas.com is a digital publisher of third party sourced news, articles and equity research as well as creates original content, including video, interviews and articles. Original content created by investorideas is protected by copyright laws other than syndication rights. Our site does not make recommendations for purchases or sale of stocks, services or products. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All investing involves risk and possible losses. This site is currently compensated for news publication and distribution, social media and marketing, content creation and more. Disclosure is posted for each compensated news release, content published /created if required but otherwise the news was not compensated for and was published for the sole interest of our readers and followers. Contact management and IR of each company directly regarding specific questions. More disclaimer info: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp Learn more about publishing your news release and our other news services on the Investorideas.com newswire https://www.investorideas.com/News-Upload/ Global investors must adhere to regulations of each country. Please read Investorideas.com privacy policy: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Private_Policy.asp Get Great Trading Ideas and News Alerts Guest posts and sponsored content - Got $100? That's all it takes to get an article published on Investor Ideas - Learn More Source: Streetwise Reports September 28, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Lowell Resources' John Forwood sees exploration upside and strategic potential in three resource stocks. John Forwood is the CEO of Lowell Resources Funds Management. Lowell Resources Funds Management has managed the ASX-listed Lowell Resources Fund (LRF) portfolio for 20 years. It operates through an Investment Committee incorporating seasoned professionals across minerals, energy, geosciences, broking, banking, and funds management. LRF (ASX code 'LRT') provides broad exposure to junior mining and energy companies, actively managed by LRFM per its investment philosophy. The fund aims to take profits when available and exit investments once targets are reached. Forwood has been running the Lowell portfolio since 2016. Prior to this, he worked for the South African investment bank Rand Merchant Bank, where he also focused on the resource sector. However, before getting into the finance side of things, Forwood's background was built on geology. He worked as a field geologist, primarily looking for copper and gold for small-to-midsized mining companies. With this foundation in geology and knowledge of the financial side, we at Streetwise decided to sit down with Forwood and speak about what companies have caught his eye. Sanu Gold Corp. The first company Forwood spoke about was Sanu Gold Corp. (SANU:CSE;SNGCF:OTCQB). Sanu Gold is a junior mining company focused on discovering multi-million-ounce gold deposits in West Africa's renowned Siguiri basin. As a young exploration company, Sanu is dedicated to uncovering major new gold resources in this prolific region for gold production. Forwood first got in contact with Sanu through its CEO, Martin Pawlitschek, while attending the Beaver Creek Precious Metals Conference in Colorado. Forwood was first interested in the company due to its projects in Guinea. Lowell Resources Fund had existing investments in Guinea, and Forwood noted, "Guinea has been a happy hunting ground for us." Guinea had been a jurisdiction that a lot of investors tended to shy away from due to a coup in the last few years. However, Forwood commented, "The mining industry itself has actually experienced pretty much plain sailing during that period." With a liking for the area, all Forwood needed to see was the projects. "Martin showed me the data of the three projects that Sanu had or was acquiring at the time," Forwood said. "They were remarkable for such an early stage. There had been a lot of very good foundation work done in terms of exploration, in particular, the termite mound sampling, and that was really comprehensive. There were some great gold anomalies. And then the project looked relatively undervalued." Now invested in the company, Forwood praised them for being relatively low-impact in terms of environmental footprint. While they are still a small company, he stated, "It's important that you have confidence that the management will do the right thing." He noted as the projects progress, he has faith in Sanu's leadership team to get things done the right way. Lastly, Forwood noted the recent channel sampling Sanu conducted on the Bantabaye Permit. The highlights of the company's recent work include an average of 1.1 grams per ton (g/t) gold (Au) over 43 m, including 4.2 g/t Au over 6m from channel sampling on Target 7. According to the company, the channel sampling has shown evidence of "sheared and hydrothermally altered felsic volcanics and returned gold mineralization over its entire 43m length, with individual samples returning up to 13.5 g/t over 1m." The press release also stated that "rock chip samples from Target 7 returned grades of up to 25.2 g/t Au." Forwood called it "a really nice result" and said, "It shows that there's a substantial mineralization system. It could be a very large mineralizing system there. As investors, we like to see the potential for something that's really big. And for a company that today has an enterprise value of around only CA$3 million, it's amazingly undervalued." According to data from Reuters, insiders and management at the company own around 17% of the total shares outstanding. The largest individual insider shareholder is Fatou Sylla Gueye, with over 7% ownership and 5.10 million shares. Martin Joachim Pawlitschek owns 4.19% with 2.91 million shares, Vince Sorace owns 3.60% with 2.50 million shares, Galen Stuart McNamara owns 0.97% with 0.68 million shares, Gavin Cooper owns 0.58% with 0.40 million shares, and Fiona C. Childe owns 0.26% with 0.18 million shares. Institutional investors own around 7% of the company. The largest institutional shareholders are Commodity Capital AG, with nearly 4% and 2.62 million shares. US Global Investors has around 2% and 1.29 million, and Palos Management has around 1% ownership, with 0.80 million. The company does not report any strategic investors or partnerships. The remaining shares are held by retail and high-net-worth investors. The company's monthly burn rate is CA$150,000. Its monthly drilling cost varies according to how much drilling they do at any one time, but the average all-in drill cost is US$120 million. During the February 2023 financing, 5.556 million warrants were issued, as well as 276,440 broker's warrants. There are 69.45 million shares outstanding, with 57.69 million free-float traded shares. The company has a market cap of CA$4.17 million, and it trades in the 52-week period between CA$0.06 and CA$0.46. Rugby Resources The next company Forwood mentioned was Rugby Resources Ltd. (RUG:TSX-V). Rugby Resources Ltd. is evolving its mineral exploration efforts to find future-focused minerals. Rugby Resources is focused specifically on mineral exploration and does not take discoveries to the mining stage. Rugby has a new porphyry copper discovery in Colombia that Forwood notably pointed out is right next door to where Rio Tinto Plc (RIO:NYSE; RIO:ASX; RIO:LSE; RTPPF:OTCPK) has been drilling. "It looks like this system could all be a part of one large system," Forwood said. "And we think that potentially what Rugby has found might even be better than what Rio Tinto has found immediately to the south." Forwood pointed out the immense exploration upside within the company, saying, " Rugby is also a company that's extremely undervalued. It's trading around five cents a share with management that has been there and done that before in South America." The management for Rugby had come from Exeter Resource Corp., where they made a couple of significant discoveries. According to Market Watch, Rugby Resources has a market cap of CA$10.88 million and 241.75 million shares outstanding. It trades in the 52-week range between CA$0.04 and CA$0.15. Reuters reports that 21.99% of the company's stock is with management and insiders. President, CEO, and Director Bryce Roxburgh has 11.03%, with 29.26 million shares. COO and QP Director Paul Joyce has 2.87%, with 7.62 million. Chairman Yale Simpson has 1.93%, with 5.12 million, and Director Robert Reynolds has 1.80%, with 4.78 million. 1.58% is held by institutional investor Konwave AG, with 4.20 million shares. The rest is with retail investors. Talon Metals Last but not least, Forwood touched on Talon Metals Corp. (TLO:TSX). Talon Metals is a base metals exploration and development company, currently in a joint venture agreement with Rio Tinto on the Tamarack Nickel-Copper-Cobalt Project in central Minnesota. The Tamarack Project comprises a large land area (18km strike length) with high-grade nickel intercepts outside of the current resource area. Under the joint venture, Talon has earn-in rights to acquire up to a 60% stake in the Tamarack Project. Currently, Talon holds a 51% interest. Talon is focused on two key objectives: (1) expanding and infilling the current high-grade nickel resource in accordance with NI 43-101 to shape a potential mine plan for regulators, and (2) following up on additional high-grade mineralization across the Tamarack Intrusive Complex. Talon has an agreement with Tesla Inc. to supply approximately 75,000 metric tons (165 million lbs) of nickel in concentrate (plus cobalt and iron by-products) from the Tamarack Project once commercial production begins over an estimated six-year timeframe. Forwood pointed out that Talon Metals is one of Lowell's largest holdings. One reason Lowell is so optimistic about the company is due to the large prospectivity in its joint venture with Rio Tinto. Forwood said, "They're earning a majority and some super high-grade intersections of nickel plus copper plus some PGMs." However, according to Forwood, the company's share price has been beaten. [OWNERSHIP_CHART-1441] "It has come down from short of 80 cents to be trading in the 20 cent range," he said, "but it's a high-grade discovery and potentially also very large." Lastly, Forwood also commented, "Being a potential producer of nickel in the U.S. is highly strategic. Talon has secured a US$114m grant from the U.S. Department of Energy for the construction of a battery minerals processing facility and has a partnership with Tesla." Market Watch notes that Talon Metals has a market cap of CA$246.83 million and 851.14 million shares outstanding. It trades in the 52-week range between CA$0.23 and CA$0.63. According to Reuters, 3.62% of the company is with management and insiders. Executive Chairman Warren Newfield has 2.20%, with 18.69 million shares. Director Henri van Rooyen has 0.40%, with 3.37 million, and CFO Vince Conte has 0.31%, with 2.64 million. Strategic investor Pallinghurst Nickel International Ltd. has 17.27%, with 146.99 million shares. 19.83% is with institutional investors. Resource Capital Funds has 15.70%, with 133.61 million shares. Amati Global Investors Ltd. has 1.77%, with 15.05 million, and Van Eck Associates Corp. has 1.05%, with 8.97 million. The rest is held by retail investors. More Info: This news is published on the Investorideas.com Newswire - a global digital news source for investors and business leaders Disclaimer/Disclosure: Investorideas.com is a digital publisher of third party sourced news, articles and equity research as well as creates original content, including video, interviews and articles. Original content created by investorideas is protected by copyright laws other than syndication rights. Our site does not make recommendations for purchases or sale of stocks, services or products. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All investing involves risk and possible losses. This site is currently compensated for news publication and distribution, social media and marketing, content creation and more. Disclosure is posted for each compensated news release, content published /created if required but otherwise the news was not compensated for and was published for the sole interest of our readers and followers. Contact management and IR of each company directly regarding specific questions. More disclaimer info: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp Learn more about publishing your news release and our other news services on the Investorideas.com newswire https://www.investorideas.com/News-Upload/ Global investors must adhere to regulations of each country. Please read Investorideas.com privacy policy: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Private_Policy.asp Get Great Trading Ideas and News Alerts Guest posts and sponsored content - Got $100? That's all it takes to get an article published on Investor Ideas - Learn More Source: Streetwise Reports September 28, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Consumers love beef, but producing this delicious meat at scale can be an environmental nightmare. However, freshly-proven technology from Bion Environmental Technologies Inc. promises to make beef "green" again. Read below to see why one technical analyst likes this company's stock. Despite the company being publicly traded for almost 30 years, you may not be familiar with Bion Environmental Technologies Inc. (BNET:OTCQB). The firm is a niche agricultural tech company with a focus on developing sustainable solutions for environmental issues in livestock agriculture. Bion has focused on developing patented technology that provides advanced waste treatment and resource recovery for large-scale livestock production facilities (also known as Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations or CAFOs), which, as many environmentalists can tell you, are some of the more polluting elements of modern large-scale agricultural production. Bion Environmental Technologies' third-generation tech platform (Gen3 Tech) can mitigate environmental problems, while simultaneously improving operational and resource efficiencies by recovering high-value co-products from CAFOs' waste streams. The tech is designed to capture and stabilize the various components of the effluent, converting them from liabilities into assets, including renewable energy, fertilizer products, and clean water, all key aspects of raising verifiably sustainable livestock. The company is also focused on developing markets and distribution partners for its sustainable animal protein products and the low-carbon and organic fertilizer products it captures and upcycles from the waste stream. The Catalyst: Controlled Steady State Ammonia Recovery at Scale On September 19, Bion Environmental Technologies announced that its proof-of-concept ammonia recovery system at its Fair Oaks commercial scale demonstration facility had achieved and maintained controlled steady-state operations. The release stated, "When at steady state, the system produces an ammonium distillate (solution), the base of Bion's nitrogen fertilizer products. Bion has begun optimizing the system's operating parameters so that it will meet Bion's economic models for large-scale commercial projects." The release anticipates at least four to eight weeks for optimization, after which time the final design for commercial projects can begin. The Ammonia Recovery System (ARS) at the core of the Gen3 Tech platform recovers, stabilizes, and upcycles the problematic ammonia-nitrogen in the waste stream, minimizing its environmental impacts and creating organic and low-carbon nitrogen fertilizer products. Today, raw waste is spread on fields for its fertilizer value; however, most of the ammonia volatilizes or runs off to contribute to groundwater nitrate contamination, harmful (some toxic) algae blooms and dead zones, and formation of PM2.5, small particulate air pollution. The release continued, "In the next few weeks, Bion intends to produce ammonium distillate at Fair Oaks in several concentrations and apply for organic certification for each product. Bion will also produce a solid/granular water-soluble nitrogen product that is climate-smart a pure nitrogen fertilizer with a low carbon footprint that can be easily shipped and is readily available to plants." The company has applied to several state agencies to certify the granular product for use in organic production. Company CEO Bill O'Neil said the company is "Very pleased with system performance at Fair Oaks, and to be back in control of our timelines. Over the next few weeks, we will conduct demonstration tours with key stakeholders in the beef industry, potential partners in distribution, banking, and project finance, and others as we establish the strategic relationships needed to develop commercial projects." Why This Industry? Green Concerns are Global O'Neil continues, "Today, many are focused on climate impacts, but we believe the larger issue with livestock is ammonia, which is of increasing concern in the U.S., especially in California and Washington." "In the EU, a nitrogen cap has already led to social and political unrest in Ireland and the Netherlands. We think the value of being able to upcycle and redirect that ammonia so that its nitrogen can be used where and when it is needed cannot be overemphasized." Indeed, nitrogen has become a serious agricultural and environmental concern in many developed economies, especially those producing feedlot animals. As a 2022 article in MercoPress warns, "Farmers in the Netherlands are revolting over the government's plan to drastically reduce nitrogen emissions by 2030." "This plan, as announced in practice, means that, in certain areas, farmers have to reduce their nitrogen emissions by 70%," explains Marcel Crok, a Dutch science writer and co-founder of the Climate Intelligence Foundation. "That means they simply have to quit." "I see BION being a steady grower over the next few years." However, with access to ammonia control practices and technologies like Bion's, that might not be the case. The article notes that "The proposal to sharply cut nitrogen emissions is tied to a 2019 Dutch court decision forcing the nation's government to take more aggressive measures to curb nitrogen emissions. The Netherlands, though, has heavily regulated agriculture emissions since the 1990s, and farmers have largely complied with such rules." "The Netherlands emits a large quantity of nitrogen because of its massive agriculture industry, which accounts for about 87% of the country's 124 million kilograms of annual ammonia emissions, a U.S. Department of Agriculture report showed. The nation exported US$26.8 billion worth of food products despite having a relatively tiny population compared to other major producers, according to World Bank data." "It is not very rational to curb Dutch agriculture if you realize that they have the highest production per acre in the world and therefore the environmental load per kilogram of food is lower than elsewhere," explains Simon Rozendaal, a Dutch journalist and chemist. Of course, the Netherlands is only one country facing the harsh environmental reality of industrial-scale agricultural production. Ireland, likewise, has farmers in its crosshairs. On September 7, writing for Tri-State Livestock News, Chris McCullough reported that "Dairy farmers in the Republic of Ireland say the government does not care for the agriculture industry after threatened cuts to the country's nitrogen derogation levels were imposed." "According to the National Trust for Ireland, the Nitrates Derogation is a license to spread more organic nitrogen per hectare on land than is routinely permitted under the Nitrates Directive. According to the text of the Directive, organic Nitrogen is livestock manure applied to the land each year, including by the animals themselves." "The current derogation limit of 250 kg/ha was due to expire on January 1, 2026, but Ireland's failure to improve water quality has forced an EU reduction to 220 kg/ha. This new level is set to commence on January 1, 2024, in some areas, affecting around 3,000 farmers, ultimately forcing them to reduce cattle numbers or find more land to rent." "Dairy farmers are furious and have blamed the government for putting the future of Ireland's multi-billion euro dairy industry in jeopardy." Clearly, this is a cross-jurisdictional international issue that will continue to plague producers well into the future. Alleviating the environmental stress food production causes while allowing countries to maintain viable herd sizes is an important social, structural, and food security goal, one in which Bion Environmental Technologies could play a significant role. More so, could certain regions of the U.S., where overconcentration has already led to profound impacts on local and downstream ecosystems, be next? Why This Company? Proven Tech, No Competition With the announcement of its successful startup at its Fair Oaks commercial scale demonstration facility, Bion Environmental Technologies has taken a big step in leading the fight to stop and reverse the environmental damage caused by CAFO facilities. When asked about competitors and comparable businesses, CEO O'Neill wasn't able to name any other firm working on the same problems in the same manner. "I don't know of any true competitors," he explained, "unless you want to count macro industry competitors, such as plant-based proteins, cellular meat. On the clean water side, Varcor/ Sedron Engineering has a tech that works for dairy but has limitations we can help with." "As far as the US$66 billion U.S. beef industry? No one else has developed a comprehensive solution for that sector of the livestock industry. We are unique." Why Now? Inflection Point From R&D to Sales Bion Environmental Technologies could be said to be at a sweet spot right now. The company is transitioning from decades of research and development into full-swing commercialization, and all the things that come with that transition -team building, establishing partnerships and strategic alliances, as well as expanding the board, completing a private placement, and retaining an investment banker, all with the goal of uplisting to a senior exchange. Technical Analyst Clive Maund addressed the stock on August 24, 2023, writing, "This looks like a good point to buy Bion Environmental Tech which, after being in a downtrend for much of this year, hit bottom in mid-July when it briefly touched $0.90 as we can see on its latest 3-month chart." "Since hitting this low, it has stabilized in a triangular pattern that comprises the latter part of what is believed to be a Head-and-Shoulders bottom, with the Left Shoulder forming in mid-June. A big reason that a valid H&S Bottom is believed to have formed is the strong volume pattern since July, with most of the volume in recent weeks being upside volume, which is why the Accumulation line has risen in a robust manner and the dissipation of downside volume." "On the long-term 3-year chart," Maund continued, "We can clearly see why this is a good point for Bion to turn higher again as the downtrend from early this year has brought it back down to a zone of strong support close to long-term cyclical lows and this also shows us another attribute of this stock, for as we can see it has the habit of occasionally erupting into steep and spectacular rallies that are then followed by 'cooling off' periods in long and tedious downtrends." "Right now, it looks like it will soon break out into a possible rocket move, and if anyone who buys in this area is fortunate enough to catch such a move, it will probably be prudent to take profits if it should make it to the resistance at the top of the broad channel shown on this chart. Bion Environmental Tech is therefore rated a strong buy here for all timeframes." Writing in January of this year, Penny Queen was equally optimistic about the company's long-term prospects. "What really sticks out to me about their latest announcement is how it ties Bion to Walmart. The company has been careful with its words, but you don't have to look very deep to see the connection." "Bion is now planning a 45k head project with Olson Farms/TD Angus. It is worth noting that Olson Farms/TD Angus is a founding member of Sustainable Beef, LLC, a rancher-owned, US$325 million packing plant being developed in North Platte, NE." "Walmart just announced an equity investment to buy a minority stake in Sustainable Beef, LLC. Connecting the dots seems pretty easy here. It looks like Walmart is showing that they have sufficient demand for a premium product and want to secure its distribution. In late September, Bion added Bill Rupp to its Advisory Group; he also happens to be a principal of Sustainable Beef, LLC., a former president at Cargill and JBS, two of the world's top three meat packers." "Most investors are familiar with the meteoric rise (and subsequent fall) of plant-based meat companies over 2021 and 2022," Penny Queen explains. "I believe the lesson to be learned from it is two-fold: there is a great demand for alternatives to current farming practices, and there is still a massive demand for animal proteins. A recent survey by Midan Marketing showed that 62% of American consumers purchase premium beef." "I see BION being a steady grower over the next few years." Ownership and Share Structure About 44% of the company is held by management and insiders and about 5% by strategic investors, Bion said. The rest is retail. The stock is covered by several newsletter writers, including Maund, Matt Badiali, and Chris Temple, editor of The National Investor. Click in the data box above to view more of what they are saying. Bion has a market cap of US$60.36 million and 48.9 million shares outstanding. It trades in a 52-week range of US$2.30 and US$0.505. More Info: This news is published on the Investorideas.com Newswire - a global digital news source for investors and business leaders Disclaimer/Disclosure: Investorideas.com is a digital publisher of third party sourced news, articles and equity research as well as creates original content, including video, interviews and articles. Original content created by investorideas is protected by copyright laws other than syndication rights. Our site does not make recommendations for purchases or sale of stocks, services or products. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All investing involves risk and possible losses. This site is currently compensated for news publication and distribution, social media and marketing, content creation and more. Disclosure is posted for each compensated news release, content published /created if required but otherwise the news was not compensated for and was published for the sole interest of our readers and followers. Contact management and IR of each company directly regarding specific questions. More disclaimer info: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp Learn more about publishing your news release and our other news services on the Investorideas.com newswire https://www.investorideas.com/News-Upload/ Global investors must adhere to regulations of each country. Please read Investorideas.com privacy policy: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Private_Policy.asp Get Great Trading Ideas and News Alerts Guest posts and sponsored content - Got $100? That's all it takes to get an article published on Investor Ideas - Learn More The contract scope includes finalizing a site-specific design for three Westinghouse AP1000 nuclear islands based on the most advanced Generation III+ nuclear reactor available today; Turbine Island and Balance of Plant design work; and support for PEJ to prepare license application materials, training programs, and operations and maintenance procedures. The work outlined in the 18-month contract will begin immediately. "One week ago, Westinghouse and Bechtel, leaders of the American civil nuclear power sector, formed a consortium to design and build the first nuclear power plant under the Polish Nuclear Power Program. Two days later, Polskie Elektrownie Jadrowe received a decision on environmental conditions for this project in Pomerania. Today we witness signing a contract for the plant design and engineering. Consistent and timely implementation of the schedules assumed, but also the scope of the contract being executed today, confirm our determination to build the first nuclear power plant within the target timeframe, in line with the budget, and with the optimum utilization of the Polish industry. Westinghouse and Bechtel are completing a sister project known as Plant Vogtle in the American state of Georgia. Their combined experience, lessons learned from the Vogtle project, optimizations implemented on this basis, and the world's most advanced technological and engineering know-how of Westinghouse and Bechtel are now being employed to fundamentally rebuild the Polish energy mix, provide a strong impulse to strengthen the Polish economy and train Polish technicians and engineers. The establishment of a nuclear culture in Poland means new opportunities for the whole country, we want to introduce the best models," said Anna ukaszewska-Trzeciakowska, Government Plenipotentiary for Strategic Energy Infrastructure. "This is one of the most significant steps forward to date in U.S.-Polish civil nuclear cooperation. I commend the Polish government and the companies involved in the project for their focus in seeing this effort through to this critical point," said Mark Brzezinski, U.S. Ambassador to Poland. "This is not just a commercial venture. Our hope is to support Poland as it becomes a hub for civil nuclear technology deployment. Energy security is national security, and America's security is interdependent with Poland's security." "The U.S. Department of Energy has long looked forward to this day, achieving our biggest milestone yet for U.S.-Poland civil nuclear cooperation, years in the making. This collaboration will stretch out for multiple decades, and prove to be a cornerstone of our enduring strategic and commercial partnership," said Andrew Light, Assistant Secretary of Energy for International Affairs at the Department of Energy. "Poland will deploy the most advanced and proven nuclear technology available today, that will provide clean, safe and reliable power, and create tens of thousands secure and sustainable energy jobs over multiple generations. This visionary project will further cement Poland as a premier center for advanced net zero energy solutions which will protect our citizens from climate change while ensuring energy independence." "We are entering a watershed moment not only for our investment project, but also for the entire energy transition process in Poland. Today's event concludes the planning stage of the nuclear power plant and commences the execution phase with relevant engineering work. In about 1.5 years, the signed contract will result in the design/engineering documentation of the first nuclear power plant to be built in Pomerania," said Mateusz Berger, President of the Management Board of Polskie Elektrownie Jadrowe. "This moment is the culmination of very intensive work by many people from the Polish and U.S. government administrations, as well as employees of PEJ, Westinghouse and Bechtel, for which I would like to thank everyone." "This is a transformational moment for Poland, for our partners, and for Westinghouse," said Patrick Fragman, Westinghouse President and CEO. "The breadth of the work we are performing here, as we create the foundations of a nuclear energy program where none existed before, will be a model for other countries that seek decarbonization and energy security through safe, reliable nuclear energy. Poland is to be commended for showing the way forward." "Poland's first nuclear power plant is a historic project, vital to the country's energy security and energy transition goals," said Craig Albert, President and Chief Operating Officer at Bechtel. "We're excited to bring Bechtel's seven decades of global nuclear power expertise to this effort, and we're proud to partner with PEJ, Westinghouse, and the thousands of local Polish construction workers and suppliers who will join together to make this project a success." Poland's first AP1000 nuclear reactor is anticipated to achieve commercial operation in 2033. The AP1000 is the only operating Generation III+ reactor with fully passive safety systems, modular construction design and the smallest footprint per MWe on the market. In the U.S., at the Vogtle site in Georgia, one AP1000 unit is producing power for the grid while a second unit recently completed its initial fuel load with commercial operations likely later this year or early-2024. Four AP1000 reactors are currently setting operational performance and availability records in China with six additional reactors under construction there. Earlier this year, Bulgaria selected the AP1000 technology for its new reactor program and the technology is under consideration at multiple other sites in Central and Eastern Europe, the United Kingdom, and in North America. Westinghouse Electric Company is shaping the future of carbon-free energy by providing safe, innovative nuclear and other clean power technologies and services globally. Westinghouse supplied the world's first commercial pressurized water reactor in 1957 and the company's technology is the basis for nearly one-half of the world's operating nuclear plants. Over 135 years of innovation makes Westinghouse the preferred partner for advanced technologies covering the complete nuclear energy life cycle. For more information, visit www.westinghousenuclear.com and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Bechtel is a trusted engineering, construction and project management partner to industry and government. Differentiated by the quality of our people and our relentless drive to deliver the most successful outcomes, we align our capabilities to our customers' objectives to create a lasting positive impact. Since 1898, we have helped customers complete more than 25,000 projects in 160 countries on all seven continents that have created jobs, grown economies, improved the resiliency of the world's infrastructure, increased access to energy, resources, and vital services, and made the world a safer, cleaner place. Bechtel serves the Infrastructure; Nuclear, Security & Environmental; Energy; and Mining & Metals markets. Our services span from initial planning and investment, through start-up and operations. www.Bechtel.com Leading digital solutions for Africas progress. This was one of the first things I read about MTN Group, Africas largest mobile network operator (MNO), as well as MTN South Africa, a subsidiary of the former. I wasnt aware of MTN until recently, but wanted to learn more. (After all, the practice of continuous learning is timeless.) I digress. Providing voice, data, fintech, digital, wholesale and API services on a massive scale (i.e. 292 million customers across 19 markets), the shared mission of MTN Group and MTN South Africa is to enable real benefits of modern, connected lives; advance attainment of smart sustainability goals, foster financial inclusion, and bridge the digital divides faced in the modern era. MTN Group is focused on economic growth for Africas sustainability. After all, through investments in infrastructure and networks, more than improved connectivity in rural and underserved areas gets done. Previously excluded individuals can participate in the digital economy, supporting economic activity. Jobs are created. Higher standards of living and reinforced social services hit greater levels of achievability. And, of course, economic growth attracts the right eyes and cutting-edge investment opportunities, leading to even further development. So, while its 5G networks enable faster internet speeds, lower latency and reliability at scale for Africans, MTN Group also recognizes and invests in innovative technologies elsewhere. That is why, earlier this month, the company announced that it has signed a multi-year agreement with Eseye, a global IoT cellular connectivity solutions provider. Like MTN, Eseye is well-aware of how good connectivity just isnt enough in 2023. IoT demands demand more; robust and highly reliable connectivity, a strong partnership portfolio (so additional experts can be leaned on to ensure high-speed connectivity is optimized), and business growth that accelerates without undue compromise within such competitive markets. Eseye knows these to be facts, and it navigates each stage of IoT thoroughly customers and partners. Hence, MTNs decision to align with Eseye, and the decision to award it with this crucial contract that will see it standardize a global eSIM and IoT platform solution. Following a rigorous tendering process, the Eseye Integra IoT Platform for MNOs was selected to power next-gen MTN IoT connectivity solutions, which will see millions of IoT devices onboarded and connected. Through Eseye, MTN will capably provide multi-dimensional solutions that go beyond connectivity management to deliver on a range of IoT value added services. The agreement will see Eseye's Integra solution deployed in South Africa, with goals to expand it to 18 operating companies across the continent, allowing several operating companies to evolve and utilize the solution to meet their own requirements and specific market needs. This involves integration with MTN's current infrastructure and utilizes Eseye's deep engineering expertise and experience in deploying rapid IoT solutions to meet MTN's needs, thus supporting key customers with pan-African IoT deployments. Per Lawrence Juku, Head of IoT Solutions at MTN Business: Our central goal is to be Africa's leading digital platform, unlocking economic growth through financial and digital solutions for consumers and businesses of all sizes. We strive to create a marketplace that supports digital economies through our affordable, inclusive, 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. Our IoT Connectivity Management Platform, powered by Eseye, will enable us to meet our goals even more aggressively, and to deliver differentiated services across diverse IoT verticals." And per Nick Earle, Eseyes CEO: "We are proud to be awarded this multi-year agreement with MTN. This demonstrates the caliber of not only our technology, but also our IoT capability. 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. We're delighted that MTN 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. With our work already well underway, we are excited for what the future holds."Edited by Greg Tavarez As managing director of Focus Capital, Eoin OKeeffe helps founder-oriented companies through their first round of investments. He sees three main sources of funding as being relevant to his clients: debt, private-equity funding and, occasionally, high net worth individuals and family offices. Debt from the banks and alternative lenders is readily available in Ireland as a source of funding. The only downside is, with rising interest rates, this source has become more challenging. All of a sudden this type of debt has become very expensive, says OKeeffe. OKeeffe has witnessed Irish business become more conservative since the financial crash. However, there are a lot of private-equity investors, not only in Ireland but also in the UK and America. We work in many different sectors medical devices, financial services, for example and we can match the private equity to the client, matching the skill sets to add more value, he says. In Ireland, due to its smaller size there are few specialist private-equity markets. However, in the US there are many to choose from. OKeeffe calls it smart money. But even smart-money investors tend to be hands off. They dont want to run your business but they do have access to specialised talent that might add value to your business. They might have access to CFOs or managing directors that could add strategic value, perhaps in scaling the business, he says. OKeeffe helps his clients figure out which source of funding will work best for their business and be the most competitive. As the middlemen, we can help find the best deals in the market. We can provide scope so that our client should be in a position to meet with several potential funders and, after many conversations, choose the one that best meets their needs, says OKeeffe. While advising clients on which avenue to explore, OKeeffe and his team also help the client to become investor ready. We want to ensure that when our clients go to market and the buyer comes in to do their due diligence, they wont find any red flags or holdups, he says. Wed done a lot of research in the marketplace and have a good flavour of what is out there. A founder business may raise once or twice but we are doing it daily for our clients and can put that expertise at our clients disposal. Basically, you get more people working in your team, says OKeeffe. Colm Sheehan, director, corporate finance, at Crowe, views the debt market as the most commonly used, offering a wide range of finance, particularly for SMEs. The market can broadly be broken down into two sectors pillar banks and a growing pool of alternative lenders. Senior lending is the cheapest form of debt and is typically secured from high-street banks, says Sheehan. The challenge facing Irish borrowers currently is the lack of depth in this market, with Bank of Ireland, AIB and Permanent TSB being the primary providers for SMEs. It is important that the lending market has the necessary depth to create a level of competitive tension for the benefit of the borrower. He adds: The alternative lending market has grown considerably in Ireland in recent years, with many lenders offering products on an asset-lend or cash flow-lend basis. Loans at this level command a higher interest margin but typically the risk appetite of the lender tends to follow the elevated pricing. There can be scope for these lenders to provide greater EBITDA leverage at risk-adjusted rates of return. While most funds are raised through the debt market, raising equity can often be a sound alternative. Equity can also be a means to fund a clear growth strategy that enhances the capital value of a business. There is a growing number of private-equity houses operating and wishing to deploy capital in the Irish market, says Sheehan. Private-equity investors will have a clear investment plan and will typically look to realise their investments over a medium-term horizon. As such, a business will need to exhibit real growth during that time, either through organic opportunity or acquisitions. Private-equity investors can often add intangible value to the management of the business. They will act as an adviser and will leverage their experiences in other businesses to provide strategic direction to your business. EY Ireland corporate finance partner Ronan Murray says there are numerous funding options available to Irish businesses, backed by significant amounts of domestic and international capital. However, a key challenge is knowing which source is optimal for the company and how to access it, he adds. Once we understand client objectives, we seek to connect them with the right type of capital provider. EY Ireland corporate finance partner Fergal McAleavey adds: Depending on the scale, industry and requirements of the business, there is a range of funding options including bank (senior) debt, mezzanine debt, crowdfunding, angel investors (EIIS), private equity, venture capital, asset disposals or a sale of the company. The labyrinth of funding options available to businesses can be challenging to navigate. In some cases, it can be difficult to identify the appropriate person within a bank or lender to open the correct doors for you. A trusted corporate finance adviser will guide you through that process, from preparing a business plan to present to lenders, to ultimately negotiating terms and ensuring an efficient drawdown process, says Sheehan. In terms of preparing for a funding proposal, to provide the best chance of success it is important to prepare robust and defendable projections to illustrate repayment capacity and future profitability." Bill Griffin is not sure if his forthcoming solo exhibition at St Peters on North Main St in Cork will be his 51st or 52nd. Its not that he cant remember, more of a case of whether his last show, at the Allihies Mines Museum in June, should actually count. I had only a months notice to get that together, he says. A lot of the paintings were only half-done. I was cross at myself for showing them at all. Despite his reservations, the show, as part of the Mike Dwyer Festival of folk music, was a great success. Griffins exhibitions usually are; he is one of the most colourful figures in the Irish arts world, and his openings tend to be major social events. Griffin has worked hard on his next show, and for good reason. This time last year he was diagnosed with cancer of the prostate, which has spread to his lymph nodes and bones, and hes resigned to the fact that the time he has left may well be limited. But I dont feel too bad, he says. Theyre trying out some new drugs on me. I dont know what the results are yet, but so far Ive had no bad reactions. Im smoking copious amounts of marijuana, I think that helps. Griffin has lived in Allihies, on the Beara peninsula in West Cork, for the past 16 years. His move west was prompted by the break-up of his marriage and what he calls a big fight with his bank. I lost, he adds. Initially, he stayed with his brother David - in whose house he still has a studio - before meeting his new partner, Deirdre, with whom he has lived for the past few years. Griffin is delighted to be showing in Cork again. He was born in 1947 on Barrack St, but the family moved to Barretts Terrace, off Blarney St, when he was still a child. He was one of five children, four boys and a girl. He left school at 14, and his first job was in a garage on North Main St, just across from St Peters, repairing cars and motorcycles. After four years he moved on to a job on the assembly line at Fords production facility on the Marina. Bill Griffin is one of the most colourful figures in the Irish arts world, and his openings tend to be major social events. Picture: John Kavanagh/Provision It was an enviable position for a young man to be in. Most of the staff were young; they had plenty of cash and socialised together. Moreover, it was thought to be a job for life. No one was ever fired from Fords, says Griffin. Except me. Where did he go wrong? He chuckles. I probably spent too much time talking to the girls in the office. And not enough at my job. I was bored, to be honest. In the mid-1960s, Griffin went to London with his brother and some other Cork lads. I was going to be an artist, he says. I thought it would take me six months. But I landed on my ass pretty quickly. We hadnt a penny between us. I hung out around Ladbrook Grove, but I was down and out a lot of the time. "I was always in trouble with the cops, for smoking, mostly, and taking speed. Oh Jesus Christ, the amount of speed we were taking. Most of the time we had no place to live, so taking speed meant we didnt have to sleep. He spent a number of nights in the cells. On one occasion, while waiting to be interviewed in Marylebone police station, he met an artists model named Henrietta Moraes. She asked me for a fag, he says. I think shed got done for burglary. Henrietta was wild. Francis Bacon and Lucien Freud both painted portraits of her. I didnt think she was particularly stunning as a looker, but she was very witty. Cutting. And great fun. Through Moraes, he met Bacon, who was already one of the most successful artists in Britain. Henrietta Moraes, left, introduced Bill Griffin to figures in the London art scene; right, a gallery attendant with Francis Bacon's image of Moraes. I only knew him a little, really. I used to talk to his boyfriend George Dyer a lot, because nobody else would. There was always that thing in my nature. I was always for the underdog. Griffin had little success selling paintings himself, and he began looking elsewhere for a livelihood. I got fed up of being hungry, he says. I went off working on the oil rigs. Everywhere. All over the world. I became a directional driller. It was very specialised, cutting-edge technology, and I had enough of an imagination to be able to picture what the bit was doing without being able to see it. "We had no technology that could do that at the time. We were drilling by the seat of our pants. But I was handy. I became known for that. I got involved in two oil rigs, where we were earning a portion of the equity by operating them. One of them sank, and I got out of the drilling business altogether a while later; I was only gone a week when the whole thing went under. Thereafter, he worked as a consultant. He was in Russia when the Soviet Union was dissolved in the late 1980s. Everything was for up for grabs, and he bought a space shuttle. He was met with scorn when he enquired about storing it at Shannon Airport, but thankfully, he soon sold it on to an amusement park. I never even saw the thing, he says, shaking with laughter. You couldnt make this up, could you? He was often to be found in political hotspots such as Libya, where he once met Muammar Gadaffi, and Iraq. He was in Iraq when Bill Clinton, as president of the USA, authorised the Operation Desert Fox bombing campaign against the country in 1998. On a visit home, Griffin was invited to give his opinion on an RTE show with presenter Brian OFarrell. "I was saying it wont go down well in the Arab world if America starts bombing Iraq. On my way out, I got a call from Michael D Higgins. He rang to say, well done. He had very strong opinions on Iraq and what was happening there. We kept in touch after that. Bill Griffin in Dublin earlier this year with his friend, President Michael D Higgins. Higgins was then a Labour Party TD. Now, as President of Ireland, he remains a friend, and spoke at Griffins 50th exhibition, at the City Assembly House, Dublin, in March this year. Griffins despair at how the Iraqi people suffered as a consequence of the US-led invasion of 2003 was partly what led him to leave the oil industry. Iraq is one of the great tragedies of the last century, he says. In a sense, it was nearly as bad as the Nazis. Two and a half million people died of starvation. But you never hear about it. I lost faith in the media after that; you couldnt believe a word theyre saying. On returning to Cork around 20 years ago, Griffin began painting in earnest, exhibiting and selling his work. He enjoyed being part of the arts scene in the city, but he thinks that moving to Allihies was the best decision he has ever made. Once I came down here, I had everything I wanted, he says. I have a lovely life. I can paint every day for as long as I want. Then I go home and get dinner and a glass of wine. Famously, Griffin used to paint exclusively with his fingers rather than with brushes, but recent years have seen him grapple with carpal tunnel syndrome. We have a kind of a truce, he says. I still paint with my fingers, but Im using brushes more and more. Its okay, as long as I dont abuse it. He expects to fill both floors in St Peters with paintings for his forthcoming show. There will be landscapes and portraits, big works and small, fantastical feats of the imagination, full of life and colour. I was obsessed with getting this exhibition ready, he says. Obsessed. But Ill have to slow down a bit now. The work is done. Bill Griffins Exhibition runs at St Peters, North Main St, Cork from October 3-14. Further information: billgriffinart.com One of the first Osprey chicks released in Ireland by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) in August has arrived in southern Morocco. In August the NPWS released nine Osprey chicks into the wild. The chicks were brought from Norway and cared for by NPWS staff in the southeast of the country until they were ready to be released. The chicks continued to be fed and cared for in the area after their release, as they had become accustomed to their new habitat. A key part of the programme involves the chicks being tagged before their release, so NPWS staff can track their movement and migratory pattern. Data generated by this satellite tagging system shows one of the chicks leaving the southeast of Ireland on September 16 and arriving in Africa on September 21. Ospreys based in Northwestern countries such as Ireland generally migrate to equatorial Africa for the winter months. The chick left the southeast of Ireland and travelled south over the Bay of Biscay, flying over the northwest of Spain, down over Portugal and eventually arriving in southern Morocco. They are expected to continue on until they reach Nigeria. Philip Buckley and Eamonn Meskell head up the reintroduction project for NPWS. Dr Buckley said: "We now know that one of the birds ['named' 6E3] released has successfully made the journey to Africa a journey of some 2,500 kilometres at one stage at a speed of 32 km per hour. This is a significant, encouraging sign for the programme." The Osprey in Dungarvan. Pictures: Valerie O'Sullivan / NPWS "The long-term aim of the programme is to establish a sustainable, breeding population of Ospreys in Ireland. Data is critical in helping us to measure the progress of reintroduction programmes like this," he noted. Ospreys don't migrate in a flock as other birds such as swallows might instead adult females depart first followed by adult males and then the juveniles travel on their own, explained Mr Meskell. They may stop along the way to feed in the Loire and at the Algarve. "These birds would be expected to spend two to three years getting strong and feeding up in Africa and getting ready to travel back to Ireland and to mate," he said. It is hoped that the nest platforms that were built for the birds in Waterford before they left will be considered their natal site now and that they will return here when they are ready. The male birds are the ones that set up the territory for mating and then a female passing by may stop and pair up. A lot of credit for this successful start to the Osprey reintroduction programme goes to their Norwegian counterparts including the Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA) as they have also helped with the reintroduction of the white-tailed eagle here. The Osprey...first flight for one of the Osprey chicks - new National Park and Wildlife Service (NPWS) reintroduction programme released into the wild in County Waterford this summer Ospreys are thought to have become extinct as breeding birds in Ireland more than 200 years ago but have continued to visit the island as part of their migratory pattern. The NPWS plans to bring 50 chicks to Ireland over a five-year period. And, a breeding pair of ospreys and their chicks was also discovered at a nesting site in Northern Ireland in August a momentous, first sighting of naturally established, breeding ospreys in more than 200 years. The NPWS used the learnings from its work with the white-tailed eagle to inform its work on reintroducing the Osprey. Over the past 16 years the NPWS has reintroduced 170 white-tailed eagles to Ireland, some of which are now fledging chicks. Ospreys are fish-eating birds of prey which need habitats which are close to rivers, lakes or coastal areas which ensure a sufficient supply of fish. They are known to be monogamous and faithful to both their mate and their nest. They may have a lifespan of around 15 years. The osprey tracking was recorded by ornithological researcher, Kendrew Coulhoon of KRC Ecological Ltd. The osprey journey 1. September 16: Osprey with satellite tracker attached to its tail leaves Dungarvan and at 8am was 8km 106 (SW) of the Old Head of Kinsale. It had travelled on a bearing 224(SW) 75km from Dungarvan at that point. 2. September 17: The next cluster of fixes were at sea ~160km off Northwest Spain which meant it had travelled a further 700km on a 196 bearing (SSW) (32km/h on leg 1 and 2 combined). 3. September 18: Bird was on North Portuguese coast (~50km N of Porto). It had travelled on a 160 bearing (S) a further 590km (24k/h) 4. September 19: Bird was 40km north east of Lisbon, having travelled a further 190km on a 180 bearing (S) (8k/h). 5. September 21: Our latest position has the bird 950km further south in a different continent - location Morocco, again travelling at bearing 180 (S). Location was ~30km east of Agadir (so a little inland) which is ~ 170km southwest of Marrakesh (20k/h) Osprey flight path In all, the bird has travelled around 2470km from Dungarvan and seems to have had average speeds of 21km/h but may have covered up to 35km/h or 500km/day. We are all familiar with smartphones, watches, and fridges now smart pebbles are a thing, as students embark on an experiment to examine the impacts of coastal erosion in Ireland. Some 300 pebbles have been equipped with tags and readers as a number of schoolchildren assist scientists in tracking coastal erosion at Killiney Beach in Dublin and Raghly Beach in Sligo over the coming months. The project is led by Chiara Cocco and Francesco Pilla, researchers with Lero, the Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Software at University College Dublin, and Iulia Anton, a researcher at Atlantic Technological University, Sligo. The smart pebbles project, part of the 10m European-wide project Score, funded by the European Commission, will see students release them into the vicinity and track their movements. Dr Cocco said: "This project is really exciting because we are collaborating with people of all ages primary school students, transition year students, and a local Tidy Towns group and using innovative technologies to examine the impacts of climate change on their coastal communities. "The students will play a key role in releasing and monitoring 300 specially adapted Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) enabled pebbles over the coming months. "Each smart pebble, painted yellow and typically about 10cm in size, has a RFID transponder cemented into drilled holes, enabling us to trace the impacts of erosion and their movements over the coming months." RFID is a wireless system made up of tags and readers. The reader has antennas that emit radio waves and receive signals back from the tag. It is used in several commercial and industrial applications, from tracking items along a supply chain to keeping track of items checked out of a library, according to online financial information website, Investopedia. Project manager of the Score project Dr Anton, said: Each pebble will be 3D-scanned by the search and rescue students, enabling the tracking of abrasions and markings. Then, we will be able to track the pebble's movements using RFID readers and GPS locators. "These citizen science results will be analysed in the lab utilising algorithms to determine climate change impacts on coastal erosion on the beach. Getting students involved is instrumental in its success, she said. "Our collaboration with local schools, led by dedicated students, is pivotal in this activity. Their role in releasing and monitoring these pebbles, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, will provide invaluable insights into erosion patterns and movements. "This citizen science initiative not only fosters environmental stewardship but also empowers the younger generation to engage in climate resilience efforts actively." The introduction of AI technology into education could see teacher-based assessments featuring prominently in exams, according to the head of one of Irelands main education bodies. Chief executive of Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI) Paddy Lavelle was speaking as the group celebrated its annual conference. This year marks 10 years since Irelands 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs) were established. Last week, Education Minister Norma Foley announced the shelving of plans for teachers to assess their own students as part of planned Leaving Cert reforms. The minister cited concerns around AI and announced that she has asked the State Examinations Commission to research the potential impact of artificial intelligence in teacher-based assessments. People talk about [AI] as both a threat and an opportunity, Mr Lavelle said when asked how ETBs have assessed the technology. For us in education, I think its a bigger opportunity than it is a threat. The introduction of spell and grammar checkers and word processors has helped to shift the focus in teaching from being pedantic about spelling to focusing more on developing students ideas, and the use of AI could see similar results, he said. AI also presents a lot of opportunities for teachers, he believes, adding that he spoke to a teacher recently who is using AI to generate interesting and relevant archival material to animate their lessons. Textbooks used to be static, whereas now they are dynamic and there will be some interactivity built into the textbook. AI could also be used as predictive analysis to monitor students performance or to help address particular learning needs. They are dangers, and the thing that has been focused on is that it can be used to generate an essay for someone. Thats being seen as a bad thing, and in a sense it is, but we kind of have that in the system already where teachers give template essays to students at Leaving Cert and ask them to learn them off by heart and repeat them in exams. If you know AI can do it, youll be much more alert to what it is that you are looking for. It wont be a perfectly written essay, itll be some insight that is definitely generated by the student and can be assessed as being generated by the student because the teacher was there with them as they were doing it. That focus forces us back towards teacher-based assessment because the teacher in the classroom knows how the students performance is going. I think there is going to be much more of a leaning on the professional integrity of teachers and the professional competence of teachers to assess as they go through this new insight into what AI will do and wont do. Meanwhile, ETBI has distanced itself from a group purporting to represent parents in ETB schools that has been promoting an event that opposes the new Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) programme. In a statement, it said the group, the ETB Schools National Parents Association, is not recognised by the Department of Education as a representative body for parents of children attending ETB schools. ETBs do not provide funding to the ETB Schools NPA, and have not done so since 2020. ETBI fully endorses the revised curriculum as it is in line with its ethos as State, co-educational, multi-denominational schools, it added. There is a very real fear in the disability community someone might die as strike action threatens vital supports, a leading advocate has warned. Leigh Gath said she fully supports the health workers, and her frustration is focused on the Government for not acting on pay-restoration requests dating back to the recession. This week, the Irish Congress of Trade Unions said thousands of health and community workers would go on strike of indefinite duration from October 17 asking for restoration of pay equality with their HSE peers. Ms Gath, a thalidomide survivor and former HSE Confidential Recipient, said: People dying is a real fear in the disability community, it is a real real fear now. She said this was being discussed among the thousands of people with significant disabilities. If you dont have any staff coming in at 8 o clock in the morning to get you out of bed or give you a drink of water, or even give you something to eat , people are going to lie in their beds and starve to death, she warned. Staff who travel between peoples homes and others who work in residential units are among those taking action, including care assistants, community workers, nurses and other frontline staff. Emergency cover Emergency cover will be provided. People will not be able to get out of bed, not be able to turn in bed sometimes a couple of times a night and not be able to go the toilet or shower, Ms Gath said. People will not have the ability to contact anyone for help. Day services will close and those living with elderly parents or in residential or alone could have to be hospitalised in order to get basic needs taken care of. I dont think the staff want to do this, but they are being backed into a corner, this has been going on since 2008. Section 39 voluntary agencies are part-funded by the State. Those taking action include the Irish Wheelchair Association, branches of Enable Ireland including in Cork and Tralee, as well as Cheshire Ireland and Family Resources Centres. Padraig Hanafin, public affairs and research administrator with Rehab and board member of the Disability Federation of Ireland (DFI), said supports from a personal assistant are central to his life. "This was a move that would change my life completely and give me a sense of a normal life in the community," he said of the Cork Centre for Independent Living. "Without this I would not have managed to complete my third-level education and I doubt I would be in employment right now. However he now sees voluntary agencies losing staff to the HSE, he told a DFI Budget 2024 event on Thursday. The truth is that the requirements of each of these organisations are the same, he said. Staff members are required to have the same qualifications and training. The needs of the service users are by in large the same. But the pay is not equal. The Department of Health has said a recently-offered 5% pay increase was not accepted by unions. The department said community and voluntary sector agencies are privately owned and operated, with employee terms and conditions not set by the state. The Government is not the employer for any of these staff, it added. President Michael D Higgins has led the tributes to actor Michael Gambon, calling him one of the "finest actors of his generation." The Dublin-born star died peacefully in hospital at the age of 82. His death was confirmed on Thursday morning and led to many tributes from friends and colleagues of his. In his own tribute, President Higgins offered his condolences to Mr Gambon's wife Anne, his son Fergus and his wider family. He said: "Michael Gambon, born in Dublin, was one of the finest actors of his generation. Having won recognition as an exceptional talent very early in his career, on stage, film, television and radio. More recently, a new generation of children and adults came to know him for his portrayal of Albus Dumbledore in the 'Harry Potter' films. However, his was a talent delivered over six decades. "As an actor he seemed boundless, be it through his work with Sir Laurence Olivers National Theatre in London, to his performances at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford. His friendship with the late Peter OToole reflected a commitment to the importance of work on stage that they shared. "His achievements as an actor in several of Samuel Becketts plays, including at the Gate in Dublin, was part of a career that included performances in the work of so many of the major playwrights of his time, including Harold Pinter. Michael Gambon in Fortitude. President Michael D Higgins said: "Michael Gambon leaves a great body of work that will remain as a compelling legacy, and a reminder to all who appreciated his work, of all that he accomplished." "Michael Gambon leaves a great body of work that will remain as a compelling legacy, and a reminder to all who appreciated his work, of all that he accomplished." Taoiseach Leo Varadkar paid tribute to Mr Gambon on social media, calling him a "great actor". Whether performing in Beckett, Dennis Potter or Harry Potter, he gave his all to every performance, he wrote. James Phelps, who starred alongside Mr Gambon in the Harry Potter films as Fred Weasley, said that he was a legend on and off camera. Stardust manager Eamon Butterly has denied telling lies to fresh inquests for those who died in the 1981 fire. He also claimed if he were to have done anything differently it wouldve been never getting involved in converting the former factory into a nightclub. During robust questioning of Mr Butterly at Dublin District Coroners Court on Thursday, it was put to him that his account around the unlocking of the doors on the night was vague and completely contradictory and the reasons youre so vague is that theyre not founded on truth. The witness replied: Are you saying Im telling lies? No Im not. Mr Butterly has been in the witness box at the Stardust inquests for the last week. The inquests are examining the circumstances of the deaths of the 48 young people following the fire in the nightclub, where over 800 people had been for a disco dancing competition. The questioning of Mr Butterly has ranged from the carpet tiles used on the walls in the building, which fire experts say contributed to the spread of fire, to the practice of keeping certain doors locked while patrons would be inside on disco nights. In the final question posed by Michael OHiggins SC, for some of the families, he asked Mr Butterly if theres anything he would have done differently. Id have never gotten involved in converting that factory to a nightclub [in the late 1970s]," he said. "Id have knocked it down and built a new one. Mr OHiggins repeated: Thats the one thing youd do differently?" and he replied: I would, yeah. 'Mock locking' Mr OHiggins also quizzed Mr Butterly on the practice of mock locking the exit doors with chains draped over the bars to appear as if they were locked. Mr O'Higgins put it to him that he had told the gardai this practice had only been in place for three weeks, but had told the Keane Tribunal into the fire in 1981 that it had been going on for years. The barrister then suggested there was an incentive for him to say three weeks because it minimised the wrongdoing and was self-serving. Mr Butterly rejected this and said he didnt mislead the gardai. It was put to him that even with this mock locking, people trying to escape on the night of the fire had severe difficulty in getting the emergency exits to open and the doors could jam. He said that if you pressed the bar down, the doors would open, to which Mr OHiggins replied that a demonstration was conducted with one of the actual doors at the Keane Tribunal. You pressed the bar at the Tribunal and it didnt budge an inch, he said. At numerous junctures, Mr Butterly re-iterated that he was told by the head doorman, his uncle Tom Kennan, that all the exits to the Stardust had been opened that night. He was asked by coroner, Dr Myra Cullinane, if he was in a position to prove that the doors were open, to which he replied: I was in the position to tell anybody who asked me that Mr Kennan told me at 11.30 that all the doors were unlocked. Mr Butterly also said that, with hindsight, it was a very bad idea to use the particular carpet tiles on the walls of the Stardust but maintained that Dublin Corporation now the city council hadn't raised any issue with them at the time. His evidence before the 13-person jury continues on Friday. Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) values input from customers and the communities we proudly serve. Based on important feedback garnered at a June open house in Berrien County and additional field studies, I&M will adjust plans to rebuild a high-voltage line from New Buffalo to Bridgman. The reliability enhancement project would upgrade 21 miles of 69-kilovolt high voltage transmission line from New Buffalo to Bridgman, providing power to four local substations. A stronger transmission grid benefits customers who receive power from these substations including those in the Village of Three Oaks, Chikaming Township, Harbert and Shorewood Hills areas. In the last five years, 20 outages have occurred in the area, sometimes leaving customers without service for extended periods of time. The majority of existing wooden poles date back to the1960s. Proactively replacing those wooden poles and wires with modern equipment, along with removing trees near the transmission line improves reliability for customers and will reduce the need for frequent maintenance, lessen the likelihood of power outages and speed restoration if an outage occurs. After reviewing community feedback, additional field studies, engineering, environmental and community impacts, the project team will adjust the plan to include: Building approximately 75-foot-tall steel or wooden poles along the route, about 10 feet shorter than originally planned. Acquiring or defining easements to approximately 40-feet-wide (about 20 feet on either side of the pole), rather than 60 feet as originally proposed. Offering reimbursement for removal of trees on private property within the proposed easement. New tree plantings are allowed outside of the easement area. In partnership with local officials, I&M invites community members and landowners in the project area to attend one of two below question and answer forums. Monday, Oct. 9: Chikaming Township Center, 13535 Red Arrow Highway, Harbert, Mich. Tuesday, Oct. 10: Three Oaks Elementary School Gymnasium, 100 Oak Street, Three Oaks, Mich. Both events begin at 6:30 p.m. EST, with doors open at 5:30 p.m. Due to venue capacity limitations, the community is encouraged to attend the meetings virtually via Zoom. Both Zoom meetings will begin at 6:30 p.m. EST. Attendees may join beginning at 6:15 p.m. For Zoom details and website links, visit www.IndianaMichiganPower.com/NewBuffalo-Bridgman. Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) is headquartered in Fort Wayne, and its approximately 2,000 employees serve more than 600,000 customers. More than 80% of its energy delivered in 2022 was emission-free. I&M has at its availability various sources of generation including 2,278 MW of nuclear generation in Michigan, 450 MW of purchased wind generation from Indiana, more than 22 MW of hydro generation in both states and approximately 35 MW of large-scale solar generation in both states. The company's generation portfolio also includes 1,497 MW of coal-fueled generation. American Electric Power, based in Columbus, Ohio, is powering a cleaner, brighter energy future for its customers and communities. AEP's approximately 17,000 employees operate and maintain the nation's largest electricity transmission system and more than 225,000 miles of distribution lines to safely deliver reliable and affordable power to 5.6 million regulated customers in 11 states. AEP also is one of the nation's largest electricity producers with approximately 30,000 megawatts of diverse generating capacity, including more than 7,000 megawatts of renewable energy. The company's plans include growing its renewable generation portfolio to approximately 50% of total capacity by 2032. AEP is on track to reach an 80% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions from 2005 levels by 2030 and has committed to achieving net zero by 2045. AEP is recognized consistently for its focus on sustainability, community engagement, and diversity, equity and inclusion. AEP's family of companies includes utilities AEP Ohio, AEP Texas, Appalachian Power (in Virginia and West Virginia), AEP Appalachian Power (in Tennessee), Indiana Michigan Power, Kentucky Power, Public Service Company of Oklahoma, and Southwestern Electric Power Company (in Arkansas, Louisiana, east Texas and the Texas Panhandle). AEP also owns AEP Energy, which provides innovative competitive energy solutions nationwide. For more information, visit aep.com. MEDIA CONTACT: Schnee Doyle Communications Consultant Sr. smdoyle@aep.com The regulator for utility companies is "extremely concerned by a request from Uisce Eireann for an extra 154m in funding for 2024. The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) said the company, formerly known as Irish Water, has been in operation for 10 years but its efficiency targets are being missed as it fails to reduce operating costs. The CRU decided to grant 81% of the additional funding sought, meaning Uisce Eireann's operating budget for next year will rise to 837m. Uisce Eireann said it needed increased funding due to higher energy prices and the costs associated with the reform of the water sector. These cost impacts are real, material, and beyond management control, Uisce Eireann said. The extra funding sought included 60m in additional energy costs and an additional 12m for temporary contract roles to bolster its workforce. CRU said there was a case to be made for the increased energy funding, and granting the bid for more staff funding would allow Uisce Eireann to meet the services to customers at the level expected. However, it also noted this temporary funding for more staff must be treated in a ring-fenced manner and not become embedded as part of the company's costs. On the subject of efficiency, where semi-State companies must reduce operating costs over time, the original target of a 6% reduction was deemed not achievable by Uisce Eireann. CRU said it was concerned the company was now aiming for a 1% reduction in operating costs, rather than 6%, as part of its efficiency targets. In a statement, Uisce Eireann said it was committed to ensuring value for money and efficiency in the provision of water services. The chief executive of Childrens Health Ireland has said unauthorised medical devices implanted in three children were not ordered through the hospitals usual procurement process. Eilish Hardiman answered questions on Thursday from members of the Oireachtas health committee around serious safety concerns with complex spinal surgery for children with spina bifida at Temple Street Children's Hospital, which is part of the CHI group. This included queries around unauthorised devices, now known to be springs, implanted in three children. Ms Hardiman initially declined to answer in relation to procurement, saying this was subject to investigation. However, she later said: It didnt come in through the procurement process, it didnt come in through that route. She said the surgeon involved was in a human resources and Irish Medical Council process. She also denied receiving an email asking for guidance around potential use of devices not designed for surgical purposes. The email, raised in the Dail by Sinn Fein leader Mary-Lou McDonald, suggested the surgeon had sought guidance from Ms Hardiman in 2020. However, she said: I have no recollection of being asked about non-medical grade, unapproved unauthorised devices. I have recollection of being in discussion around MAGEC rods, because I do know those quite well, thats the only ones I am aware of. I wouldnt get into that level of detail to be honest. She said there was an investigation under way attempting to identify the source of the email, and she has stepped aside from this process. She added she did not have the authority to approve devices allegedly mentioned in the email, which was quoted from by many committee members. The disputed email also refers to a consent process with families. CHI clinical director Dr Ike Okafor said: I believe that is a matter for the investigation." He said spina bifida surgeries on other body parts continued as only complex spinal surgery was paused. CHI chief medical officer Dr Allan Goldman said in relation to the springs: This has shocked us, this is unacceptable. We can only put our hands up at this stage and say exactly that, then we need to understand what happened and we need to improve and make sure it never happens again. Pressed on whether he can definitively say this had not happened elsewhere, he said: All we can say at this stage we are completely unaware of any other devices, nobody can say 100% on anything. He defended an external review by Boston Childrens Hospital, published last week, saying they examined files for up to six weeks before visiting from a Sunday to Wednesday. He said the surgeon was supportive of the external review". CHI said it would provide implementation updates on the 50 recommendations which cover many areas. A report into the death of Dollceanna Carter, 10, is expected in October following an almost one-year process, Ms Hardiman confirmed. We have listened to the issues raised by the advocacy groups and also intend to improve our communications, she said. While we have a road to travel, we will then focus on rebuilding trust and confidence amongst the children, young people and families who need services in CHI at Temple Street. The Court of Appeal (CoA) has cut a 124,000 award made last year to a man who was knocked off his bike in a cycle lane by a bus to just over 65,000. Gearoid O'Daly (40), a bank lending officer of Heuston South Quarter, Dublin, sued Bus Eireann and driver Declan Sheridan over the incident as he was travelling along the cycle lane at Custom House Quay, Dublin, on June 8, 2016. Bus Eireann had denied liability and claimed contributory negligence in that it argued Mr O'Daly failed to look at where he was going. Mr O'Daly fractured his wrist and suffered abrasions and bruising. He claimed he developed chronic long-term pain subsequently and he underwent numerous treatments to try to deal with it. The High Court's Mr Justice Michael Hanna awarded him a total of 124,000 saying he accepted Mr O'Daly's evidence. Bus Eireann appealed the award to Court of Appeal on grounds including that there was no evidence to support the High Courts conclusion that there was a causative link between the accident and the complaints of widespread body pain syndrome or medically unexplained pain. The defendants also argued that the trial judge erred in failing to properly interpret the medical evidence on both sides in coming to his conclusions. The defendants further submitted that the overall award was excessive and was unsupported by the evidence. Mr O'Daly's lawyers opposed the appeal. Thursday's ruling In its judgement on Thursday the three-judge CoA comprised of Mr Justice Seamus Noonan, Mr Justice Donald Binchy and Mr Justice Senan Allen agreed that the award should be cut. Giving the CoA's decision, Mr Justice Noonan said that the defendant had complained that the High Court judge had sought to diagnose the plaintiff as suffering from a pain syndrome in the absence of any evidence. The CoA agreed that there was some merit in that contention. There was no evidence which would justify a finding that the plaintiff was suffering from a pain syndrome, for example CRPS, which is a specific discrete finding that is medically verifiable, the CoA found. That was "certainly not" the evidence of the plaintiffs medical witness, the CoA added. The CoA said the High Court judge had recognised that there was no psychological support for his conclusion, which unfortunately undermines it. The CoA said that after taking the Book of Quantum, which is the publication that gives guidelines for compensation payments in personal injuries cases, and other comparable personal injuries cases into account, Mr ODaly was entitled to an award of general damages of 55,000. The CoA went on to assess his special damages as being a sum just over 10,000, bringing the total of the award to Mr ODaly to just over 65,000. Pain assessment In his judgement, Mr Justice Noonan said as a general observation that an "ever-present issue in personal injury litigation is how the court is to assess complaints of pain and disability." "A particular difficulty arises where such complaints are not apparently supported by medical evidence." he said. A court has to use its best endeavours to gauge the impact of an injury on the particular claimant, the judge said, adding that this "often involves the question of credibility". He said that judges sometimes remark that they believe the plaintiff, or the plaintiff did not exaggerate their injury, or the plaintiff was a bad candidate for the accident and in many cases, that may suffice to arrive at a reliable conclusion. However, he said that judges "are fallible like everyone else and while the vast majority of plaintiffs are honest and truthful about their complaints, that is not invariably the case". Human nature being what it is, how people perceive their injuries will naturally vary, he said. The judge said that the "law must treat everyone fairly and equally". Fairness means being consistent in ones approach to particular injuries, even if, to some extent, they may affect different people differently. Were it otherwise, assessment tools such as the Book of Quantum and the Personal Injuries Guidelines would be of little value. he said. Courts must, he said, adopt a robustly sceptical attitude towards complaints for which there appears to be no objective medical explanation. At the end of the day, however, sight must not be lost of the fact that the onus of proof is on the plaintiff to establish that whatever complaints they claim to have were caused by the defendants, the judge concluded. Two Extinction Rebellion activists, who believed the climate crisis justified locking themselves to the gates of Leinster House preventing politicians from driving out, have been spared jail. Dublin District Court heard Ronan O Dalaigh and Art O Laoghaire's lock on, lock off" action saw them attached to the Dail gates with bicycle locks around their necks on the night of October 10, 2019. They argued that they used non-violent direct action because of Government inaction. Asked if they were prepared to apologise to people inconvenienced by them, O Dalaigh told the court he was sorry to them and those affected by the climate catastrophe. O Laoghaire said he was apologetic to anyone discommoded that night. Both were fined 500 on Thursday after Judge John Hughes convicted them of public order offences for blocking the passage of vehicles and failing to leave the vicinity after being cautioned by gardai at Merrion Street Upper. Their direct action at Leinster House was an off-shoot of a wider week-long but officially sanctioned climate crisis event which allowed Merrion Square to be sectioned off for protests that attracted massive crowds. The two men pleaded not guilty and faced a non-jury hearing on Thursday. One of the charges carried a possible six-month sentence, nevertheless, they told the court they believed their act was justified. O Dalaigh, 32, is the CEO and founder of Thriftify. a social enterprise which helps charity shops sell online. He said he works with people in the global south directly impacted by climate change. O Laoghaire, 72, is a retired English as a foreign language teacher. He said he had been planning to retire to the Mediterranean until he attended an Extinction Rebellion event and got involved with the groups campaigns. The pair admitted in court that they broke the law, but were convinced it was necessary because of the crisis, and claimed government inaction made the problem worse. Video Evidence Video evidence showed them and other protesters locked to the gate for hours before gardai cut them free and removed them around midnight. No damage was caused to the gates. The court heard politicians and Leinster House staff were blocked from driving out but were not prevented from leaving on foot. They did not challenge the testimony of Detective Sergeant Ronan Waldron or the CCTV footage which showed them locked to the gate. Detective Sergeant Waldron described the defendants as committed to the cause. O Dalaigh, of Westbourne Grove, Clondalkin, Dublin, told Judge Hughes that the Extinction Rebellion believed social change could be brought about by a combination of activities and one was non-violent direct action as used by the Suffragettes. He accused the Government of blocking laws aimed at tackling the climate emergency which has left him afraid that it would worsen global warming, rising sea levels, reduced bio-diversity, crop failures, and the risk of a refugee crisis. They decided to block the Dail gates but people could leave through the pedestrian gates. He said the protesters tried to engage with politicians there but they were ignored despite evidence that millions of lives will be lost unless radical action was taken. Cross-examined by the prosecution he accepted that gardai had facilitated them with an area at Merrion Square which was closed off to traffic for climate protests all that week. He also agreed that they were engaging in civil disobedience but said it was not violent. Picture: Collins Courts The GAA fan and former Reserve Defence forces member told Judge Hughes that the crisis had given him sleepless nights. He said had considered what he would say to his children or grandchildren when they asked What did you do?. Father of two, Art O Laoghaire, from Kilbride Grove, Bray, Co. Wicklow, also accused the Government of ignoring the problem and said Extinction Rebellion had to be a thorn in their side. However, he did not believe the people in Government buildings had been seriously discommoded and any disruption to their lives was trivial. The court heard he has retired but continues voluntary work teaching English to Ukrainian refugees and working for charity. The judge asked his thoughts on the possible but unknown disruption caused to the personal lives of people working at Leinster House and delayed leaving. He said they could get a taxi and it is not as if they are impoverished people, and described any disruption to them as trivial. The pair had no prior criminal convictions and have not come to further Garda attention. Judge Hughes said there were competing rights to protest and public order and safety. In pleas for leniency, the defence asked the judge to note they were passionate about climate change campaigning and had honestly held convictions. The judge also noted they were not violent and gave them six months to pay the fines. Three other protesters who locked themselves to the gates were spared court and convictions after accepting Garda adult cautions instead. Several blocks of ageing flats in Cork city, where residents have complained about appalling living conditions, have been earmarked for demolition and regeneration, subject to funding. It follows a concerted campaign by the residents of the flats at Noonans Road, Dean St, St Finbarrs Road, and Fort St, to secure action and improvements. It led to several meetings in recent months, and an on-site visit by senior city officials last July after which residents were told a decision on a way forward would be made within a few months. Refurbishment and retrofitting options were previously ruled out given the poor state of the flats structures. Now, the residents of the complexes totaling 114 units which are home to people aged from one to over 80 have been told by Cork City Council that it considers redevelopment as the preferred option for each of the sites. The council issued letters to residents on Thursday outlining its preferred option. Residents have been told that the council would prefer to temporarily re-home the residents to facilitate the demolition of the flats, and then redevelop the sites and offer homes there to any residents who would like to stay in the area. They were told that any redevelopment will involve consultation and discussion with them, a detailed design process and the approval of central government funding. Residents have been invited to share their views on the future planning and design of their areas. A tenant pointing to a hole in the woodwork where mice go in and out in a flat at Noonan's Road, Cork, earlier this year. Picture: Denis Minihane They have also been assured that because the process will take some time, no one needs to move out of their home in the short-term, and ongoing maintenance issues will be addressed by the council. Independent local city councillor and former Lord Mayor Mick Finn cautiously welcomed the news. This is a huge opportunity: we need to make it a reality, he said. Since being elected to council in 2009, renovation or replacement of these flat complexes has been one of my main asks and though its taken a long, long time to get to this point, I think it could be the start of a new beginning for the residents even if its going to take several years to get activated and completed. He said demolition and redevelopment will obviously be a complex and costly process that will require significant capital investment and the provision of alternative accommodation options. But he said such a large project has massive potential for this historic area of the city. It will have to be done in phases and unlike other regeneration projects ongoing in the city, could actually lead to increased numbers of units across the sites rather than just replacing whats there, he said. There is also potential to provide specialist housing for older people, for the disabled, affordable and cost-rental options as well as open spaces and community buildings. Time management continues to be a challenge for your columnist. This time an inability to manage the calendar led to missing out on Design Pop, the weekend celebration of design and architecture that took place on Leeside earlier this month. That didnt stop me from getting in touch with founder Amy McKeogh, mind. The Cork native explained why she held the event in her hometown. Im from Cork but I live in Dublin, and it would have been far easier for me to do Design Pop in Dublin, but a lot of conversations are going on in Dublin already about design and architecture. Unfortunately those conversations tend to stay in Dublin, so it was very intentional to have it in Cork. In West Cork in particular theres a lot of terrific designers, but one point I picked up from talking to people is that there might be a lack of a creative community in Cork to discuss these topics together. Im lucky enough in Dublin, there are plenty of events where I can go and meet people with similar interests, so that was why I wanted to have the event in Cork, to bring people together to say we can actually do this stuff here. I knew there were people in Cork who wanted to have those discussions, which made it important to have it in Cork. Members of the public at the Design Pop launch in Nano Nagle Place, Cork. The line-up of panels and speakers was impressive, and McKeogh says the interaction among those speakers worked well: We had people like Tricia Harris, Daniel Gill, Adrian Duyn, Simon Dennehy, and Philip Hamilton from Perch it was like the future of Irish furniture design, and there was so much there. Daniel came from the perspective of the timber and the trees and the wood, sustainability, then we had Tricia and the Perch guys who studied in NCAD and Letterfrack (ATU Connemara), bringing a design perspective. The way Daniel was talking about native Irish wood, the skill and craftsmanship in Irish carpentry all of that, to me, is completely untapped, in truth. That brought me to a particular point how are we when it comes to appreciating good design, with we meaning Irish people? I think Irish people are very design literate and have good taste and know what good design is. Unfortunately, theres a bit of a legacy of oh thats not for me, thats a bit different. But I find if you engage people on the topic theyre very design literate and have opinions, and are very aware of good design and what that means. A lot of the time I think many people arent engaged directly with it. Id find that the older generation, my parents generation, often respond first with thats not for me but if you ask them about kitchen design they have a lot of views and opinions on that, on traditional Irish furniture and woodworking, for instance. I think its in our society but it just needs to be peeled back, that we understand what good design is, and thats coming through particularly in the field of Irish furniture design. Would education in design help? McKeogh thinks so.100%, and Letterfrack has done wonders in that regard and itd be great to bring that into schools to spread understanding. An installation at Design Pop in Cork. Other contributors to Design Pop will be familiar to regular readers. What Frank OConnor and Jude Sherry are doing on dereliction is amazing, theyre so articulate and well-read. What theyve done is capture how dereliction is not just a building falling down, theres an impact on the society around it, on the street where its located the impact on how the city is behaving, as a collective of buildings and people, is fundamental. Its so important that this needs to be addressed, and quickly, and this was something that came out of Design Pop too. Frank OMahony of Wilson Architecture was talking about his first job in architecture, and he went to towns in West Cork where there were architects mapping out dereliction even then. So he was saying this was an issue back then, and there were tools to address it, but for some reason there was a lack of action. Here design and architecture begin to combine, and McKeogh points out the importance of careful planning. Particularly planning with an eye on the long game. My perception was that while everything needs to be addressed in the short term, theres also a lack of long term planning what Frank OMahony was calling 100-year planning. Cities like Vienna have addressed their housing issues because 100 years ago they saw potential problems coming. Irish governmental and local authority bodies are lacking that 100-year plan. Obviously we need to solve that issue now, but to stop us from getting into a cycle where we do something that doesnt address the fundamental issues and end up going around in a circle... An installation at Design Pop. Something that emerged from that panel at Design Pop was future proofing, with a team focused on planning 100 years into the future and a team focused on immediate, quick action as well quick fixes as well. And what quick fixes would help? There are others who are better informed on this but theres also plenty of low-hanging fruit the derelict site register and the vacant site levy, for instance. The government had the right idea in putting those in place, but the execution has been appalling. If I were running for office the only thing Id focus on would be the sites on the derelict site register and charging those people. Any candidate doing that would win over every person aged from their twenties to their forties trying to buy a house. Charge people who are sitting on derelict houses, because that situation is only getting worse, and if someone like me gets the money together to buy one of those houses, Ill need to put hundreds of thousands more to fix it. If the owner had done something to maintain the house then that refurbishment work involving money, materials, all that wouldnt be necessary. An event like this is important for Cork because, as McKeogh noted, pulling people together to discuss these issues is vital for the citys future, and a critical mass can be reached if the ideas and plans generated at such meetings filter out into the mainstream. Its particularly important to have an eye on how Cork is fixed for decades to come, and McKeoghs reference to Vienna is significant (a recent headline in the Financial Times: Lessons from Vienna: A housing success story 100 years in the making). Addressing pressing issues neednt rule out long-term strategising. Design Pop was a success this year. Can we put it in the diary for 2024? Theres still a bit of a hangover, says McKeogh. Myself and Rose-Anne (Kidney, festival manager) are exhausted, but the reaction from the speakers is so good that well just have to do it again, for sure. designpop.ie In the past few days there has been a steady stream of ethnic Armenians fleeing the contested region of Narogno-Karabakh. Azerbaijan launched a 24-hour assault on the Armenian enclave, which is surrounded by Azerbaijani territory, on September 19 and, following a ceasefire brokered the following day, refugees have been allowed to leave via the narrow Lachin corridor, which connects the enclave with Armenia. As of September 27, it was estimated that nearly 30,000 people had made the crossing since it was opened on September 24. It is expected that many of the estimated 120,000 Karabakhi Armenians will leave for Armenia. Meanwhile, at least 68 people were killed and about 350 injured in an explosion at a petrol station in the enclaves main highway out of Stepanakert, its capital. The Armenian prime minister, Nikol Pashinyan, has accused Azerbaijan of ethnic cleansing in the region something denied by Azerbaijan which described the conflict as an anti-terror operation and said the majority of the Armenian population would be integrated into Azerbaijan and their rights respected. But it appears that the exodus of dispossessed Armenians will continue and they are an angry population. They are angry at Azerbaijan for the shelling which forced them to flee. They are angry at Turkey for supporting and arming Azerbaijan. Oddly, they are not angry at Russia whose lack of attention emboldened Azerbaijan to take action against them. In fact, some of the refugees are expected to make their way to Russia via Armenia. Armenian anger Mainly they are angry at the Armenian government as are many of their compatriots in Armenia itself. But the mass protests have been more an expression of hopelessness than of defiance. Nagorno-Karabakh where there has been an ethnic Armenian population since 200BCE is lost, and many people blame their leader. Witnessing refugees arrive has upped the emotional ante. The response from Armenian prime minister, Nikol Pashinyan, has been brutal. Up to 350 protesters were detained and some reportedly badly beaten by security forces. Pashinyan has implied that it is the Kremlin who instigated the riots. But, even if Russian medias coverage is hostile towards Pashinyan, Armenians themselves have plenty of grievances against their prime minister. The unrest follows riots in 2020 over the loss of territory and prestige after the second Karabakh war. During the conflict, Azeri forces reoccupied large tracts of territory previously occupied by Armenia. So Pashinyan was already unpopular before the most recent Azeri military action his approval ratings as of June 2023 were very low only 14% expressed trust in him and 72% gave his performance a negative rating. But there is little cohesion among opposition groups beyond a desire for Pashinyans resignation. Russian relations with Armenia have been shaky for some time. After the invasion of Ukraine, Moscow pivoted towards Turkey, Azerbaijans sponsor, as it deemed the relationship more valuable in terms of mitigating the effects of western sanctions. The response to the unrest from Armenian prime minister, Nikol Pashinyan, has been brutal. Up to 350 protesters were detained and some reportedly badly beaten by security forces. Picture: Hayk Baghdasaryan/AP To a degree this was a rational calculation, but theres a personal element as well. Vladimir Putin never warmed to Pashinyan, who gained power in 2018 after popular protests ousted the Kremlin-friendly leadership of Serzh Sargsyan. But Armenias close relationship with Russia goes back centuries, so the two leaders managed to get along. Things began to really sour between Russia and Armenia in 2023, when Armenia refused to host military exercises by the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO), instead inviting the US military to train there. The highly symbolic visit by Armenian first lady, Anna Hakobyan, to Ukraine in early September seems to have been the last straw. Armenia, it seems, no longer counted Russia as a friend or a force to be reckoned with. What happens next Azerbaijan has not achieved all of its goals yet. It aims to open direct ground links to its enclave embedded in Armenia, the Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic, which has a population of just under 450,000. This would also give mainland Azerbaijan direct access to Turkey rather than transit routed through Iran. Proposals for the Zangezur corridor are bitterly opposed by Armenia as it would effectively block the countrys border with Iran. The issue has rankled since the first Karabakh war in 1991, after which the two populations were only linked by air travel. Part of the agreement that halted the second Karabakh war in 2020 included allowing free transit through Zangezur, but this was never implemented. Now the idea is back on the table, raised by Azeri president Ilham Aliyev at a meeting with Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan on September 25. This will bring Iran into play as the route of any corridor between Azerbaijan and Nakhichevan would go along its border. Some sort of deal addressing Irans security concerns will need to be reached and this is very likely to involve Moscow as one of Tehrans close allies. So, Moscow appears to have taken a conscious decision to abandon Armenia for closer relations with Azerbaijan and Turkey and the opportunity to act as a power broker with Iran. In Putins eyes, no doubt, Pashinyan is disposable. He can wait until a different, more amenable leader, comes to power. Armenias pivot to the west, meanwhile, appears almost inevitable. The country is likely to withdraw from the CSTO and apply to join Nato and request visa-free travel to the EU. But the manner in which Pashinyan is putting down protests will make many potential allies in the west uncomfortable. The situation is only made more complex by Europes dependence on Azerbaijan for gas and its strategically important location in the Middle Corridor Eurasian trade route between China and Europe. The west can still play a valuable role in brokering peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan. But for any lasting settlement to stick, Russia and Turkey will have to be involved, instead of becoming its spoilers. This is a problem with many moving parts. Big tech chief executives are waiting with no small measure of anxiety, as the European Union announces the results of reports submitted by tech firms on the scale of fake news across social media. The reports were the first since the Digital Services Act gave the EU sweeping new powers to fine and otherwise punish those who perform poorly. The report cards were welcome reading for most companies, who have done decently in tackling the scourge of disinformation. But for Elon Musks Twitter, now known as X, the message was clear: Could do better. The platform was found to have the highest ratio of disinformative posts compared with its competitors. There are obligations under the hard law, said Vera Jourova, the European commissioner responsible for implementing the anti-disinformation code. Like a disappointed teacher, Jourova addressed Musk in a press conference after the publication of the report. So my message for Twitter/X is you have to comply, she said. We will be watching what you do. That so many platforms performed decently in the report albeit with room for improvement is an indication that Europes attempts to chop big tech down to size after decades of running free from regulatory rule are working. The anti-disinformation code is part of a broader sweep of laws hacking at the shins of big tech platforms, including the EUs proposed AI Act, and last years Digital Services Act and Digital Markets Act, all of which take aim at the companies that have come to dominate our lives. Tech companies are never happy when they have to bend to rules imposed by third parties understandably, as it eats into their profits. But there are suggestions, including by industry bodies that represent the platforms themselves, that if regulation is to come, they would prefer smartly thought-through options. Risks Memorably, last week Gerard de Graaf, Brussels man in Silicon Valley, characterised the tech industrys begrudging acceptance of European regulators knocking at their door by asking: If youre a regulated industry, would you rather be regulated by an expert or by an idiot? The risk of huge fines 6% of a companys annual global turnover, in the case of the EUs Digital Services Act is also an incentive to follow the rules that the EU lays down. The risk of not complying with the rules on disinformation includes, at its worst, an outright ban across the EU. Both are significant incentives to comply. Yet Jourovas veiled threat that Europe is watching Twitter is necessary because, unlike most of his peers in the tech sector, Elon Musk has shown an aversion to regulation. In May, Musk pulled Twitter out of the EUs code of practice in an attempt to shirk its responsibilities and avoid the consequences of missing targets. It seems likely that he recognised that firing most of the companys content moderation staff made it more likely that disinformation would proliferate on Twitter. The EUs findings this week show that prediction appears to have come true. Despite the tough talk, Europe is in a tricky situation. Mark Zuckerberg at least made some attempt to meet the seriousness of his position overseeing a tech company Facebook has been imperfect, but has previously made some voluntary attempts to address criticisms around misinformation, data use, and the threat of AI. But just as Donald Trump drastically lowered the bar for what was considered the minimum standard of world leader when he became president, Musk has reached a new nadir for the hated tech executive. Ignoring obligations and flouting rules has become the norm for him. If they follow through on their threats and ban Twitter from Europe, EU regulators will set an example. But they will also withdraw access to what remains despite Musks best attempts to wreck it the de facto public town square he once boasted it was for millions of people. All because one man thinks hes above the law. Repeated fines may work to bring Twitter back into line, but Musk has shown he is willing to throw bad money after good on the platform. The result is a potential standoff. Musk may be the spoiler for Europes so far successful approach to tech regulation. Following the letter of the law, doing things by the book, and methodically drawing up sensible, consensual regulation only works if all parties are willing to behave. Or as de Graaf might put it, lawmaking by expertise only works if there isnt an idiot willing to crash the process. Chris Stokel-Walker is the author of TikTok Boom: Chinas Dynamite App and the Superpower Race for Social Media The Guardian TWO land parcels in East Cork, both with development potential and positive planning histories, are on the market with a combined value of 1.4m. The larger of the two, with a guide price of 950,000, is a 3.78 acre elevated site, in the village of Rostellan, overlooking Lower Cork Harbour. It was part of a proposal to build 29 detached homes in the early noughties. While 17 homes were built after the landowner, Robert Rutledge, sold serviced sites with planning permission to individual buyers for prices starting at 250,000, the remaining 12 homes at Radharc na Mara never went ahead. The land now on sale was earmarked for those homes and is zoned residential. While planning permission has lapsed, selling agent Shane Russell of Russell Estate Agents said there will be no issue getting fresh planning. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has amended his nations constitution to include his policy to expand the countrys military nuclear program. State media said on Thursday that Mr Kim has called for an exponential increase in the production of nuclear weapons. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) added that he called on his nation to play a larger role in a collective of nations confronting the United States in a new Cold War. As per KCNA, Mr Kim commented during a two-day session of North Koreas rubber-stamp parliament in which he amended the constitution. The assembly gave unanimous approval to a new clause in the constitution to ensure the countrys right to existence and development, deter war and protect regional and global peace by rapidly developing nuclear weapons to a higher level. Mr Kim said at the assembly that North Koreas nuclear force-building policy has been made permanent as the basic law of the state, which no one is allowed to flout with anything. The North Korean leader added his nation needs to push ahead with the work for exponentially boosting the production of nuclear weapons and diversifying the nuclear strike means. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, bottom centre, attends a meeting of the countrys parliament in Pyongyang, North Korea (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service/AP) Mr Kim went on to accuse the United States, South Korea, and Japan of combining to create a threat equivalent to the Asian version of NATO which he described as the root cause of war and aggression. He said: This is just the worst actual threat, not threatening rhetoric or an imaginary entity. The North Korean leader urged his diplomats to further promote solidarity with the nations standing against the U.S. and the Wests strategy for hegemony. The Supreme Peoples Assembly meetings came after in the wake of Mr Kims visit to Russia earlier this month. The trip sparked concerns in the West on a possible arms alliance between the two rogue nations, prompting fears North Korea would provide Russia with munitions for its war on Ukraine in exchange for advanced weapons technologies. ELKOAs actors tried on costume elements such as a fur coat, a crown, a kilt and a military jacket, assistant director Amber Adeline Day knelt on the Great Basin Colleges theater stage, gazing at a script. It was day two of Great Basin Theaters rehearsals for their fall production of Macbeth. Day explained the linguistic features of Shakespeares text so that the cast of local community members could understand how to bring their characters to dynamic life. There are two places where we have our shared lines, which shows a connection between the characters. In act two, scene two, weve got Lady Macbeth and Macbeth, where we are sharing the meter together and sharing some of the same statements, Day explained. And then in Act 2, Scene 3, Macduff and Ross, you definitely have this moment where youre tripping up on each others timing. So youre definitely sharing information together, which is a strong indication of the loyalty that is present. The murderers are often speaking in prose, and then Lady Macbeth when she starts to lose herself, speaks in prose, whereas everything else is a pretty strong poetry, Day added, explaining the alternations between poetry and prose in the script. And then I want the witches to continue to just be really aware of dark and light, casting a spell and how we can allow the spell casting to be true magic on stage, in our physicality, in our voices, and how when the spell is being cast, when were actually creating this evil deed, how thats different to other moments of verbal play, Day continued, offering instructions in light of the scripts themes. Day, who has headed up theater productions worldwide in locations such as Spain and England, said her goal for the cast is that they garner hands-on acting experience from the material. Were hoping that we can explore the language a little bit more and really delve into the experience of Shakespeare and just connect to the roots of Shakespeare from an acting perspective. Oftentimes, we go to Shakespeare as students on a literary level, she said. And I think its important to approach Shakespeare from the place of the actor, because when you look at the First Folio, we have Macbeth because of the actors saving the work. And so the initial goal was to have everyone really dig into the language and experience it from an acting perspective, because some of them have never been actors. I think some of the characters that Ive been excited to see them explore have been the witches because the witches have this beautiful presence that often can be kind of kitschy, and getting to explore the text in a new way and really explore the supernatural in a different approach I think is exciting for them, Day said of the aspects of the show she is most eager to see the actors bring to life. Day explained the challenges that come with staging the Shakespearean tragedy. Macbeth is a huge piece. You have the Scottish wars. You have a lot of interesting staging that is questionable, like the murders that are done on stage versus the murders that are done off stage. I think one of the biggest things that we have going for us right now is our projection work, and our film work, Day said. Were actually having an opportunity to film several of the death scenes and be able to put that in the space in a way that allows the audience to connect to those deaths in a way that you wouldnt normally see in Shakespeare, Day said of what makes this particular staging stand out, noting that the deaths often take place offstage in many productions of Macbeth. And this way, all of the deaths have a presence in a different way. She cited Joel Coens 2021 feature film The Tragedy of Macbeth as an inspiration for the shows design and its fusion of stage acting and film. We are eager to explore technology. I also think something different about it is we are definitely playing with femininity and masculinity with various women playing male roles, and vice versa, she said. I think Shakespeare is juicy because you can have so many different reframes and reimaginings, Day explained. Macbeth is one of those pieces that can be interpreted in so many different ways. You can ask questions of the supernatural, you can ask how the monarchy is going to be created. And you can ask really cool creative questions like how a ghost will appear on stage and what will that mean for the audience. How will they see it? So I think those are fun challenges that we have. Day said that staging the show comes with a particular logistical challenge. As the theater stage space is occupied by many different events, rehearsals for the show will sometimes occur in a different space. Day noted that Great Basin College technician and theater set designer Dawn Bartlett contributes valuable effort to planning and logistics. Day said the directorial touches she will bring to the show involve collaboration and teamwork. Along with lead director John Patrick Rice, who was absent that night, Day collaborates with the cast as part of the creative process. I think having the approach where the actors creative process is paramount and were collaborating on that together is key, she said. Everyone is a team and the actors are the main priority, Day who will also play Lady Macbeth said. The actors have a hand in part of their costume design, they have a hand in what we do for set design and what the experience is, she said. I think that thats special. A lot of times in shows theres a lot of hierarchy, like you have your director and then everybody below you. And certainly the director has the overall eye, but were certainly working together as a collaborative entity, which is kind of similar to Shakespeare and employers back in the day. Macbeth is one of the dream roles that Ive had for a long time, Nick Cdebaca, who will play the titular role, said while holding a fake dagger. Cdebaca said he looks forward to how each performance will be different. Im just excited to be back on the stage. This is like the first thing Ive done in three, maybe four years. What is it like to work with Rice? He allows a lot of artistic freedom, Cdebaca said of Rices direction. But hes not afraid to reel it back when youre going in, perhaps, not the direction that you need to go in. Hes extraordinarily knowledgeable. That dude has been acting for longer than Ive been alive. So he has a massive wealth of experience. Hes extraordinarily passionate, and its just a fun experience. Cdebaca and his wife, Laura, have both been involved in Great Basin Theater shows for nearly 10 years. Their son is also part of the cast. Laura Cdebaca, who will play Banquo and Lady Macbeth, said she is excited to be onstage with her family. She said she is also excited to perform the part of the show where Banquo comes back as a ghost and haunts Macbeth. Leah Armstrong, who will play the role of Ross, said she is looking forward to focusing all her attention on this show, as she just finished up a different theater production. Ive never done a Shakespeare show before, so Im just really excited to try it out because its completely new for me, Armstrong said. I really love and appreciate everything on the GBC stage, Mel Oliver, who will play the role of Macduff, said. We do fantastic work out here and its just an honor to be able to get back onto the stage and perform something fresh. I want to be able to complete a show, because I feel with COVID and all the stops that weve had on stage, its been rough for us, so its nice to get back on and do some live theater, Oliver noted. Oliver explained that Rice is excellent to work with. Im fairly fresh to Elko, so he was one of the first thespians out there that I really connected with, and hes been just an awesome director to have. Day shared how Rice impacted her experiences with theater. I was born here, and I trained and moved away for about 13 years in New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey and London. And when I came back I was really nervous to return to the community and how would I share what Ive learned? and John really welcomed me with open arms. Hes been an incredible person in the community for the arts, Day said. When I was younger, in the late 90s, hed brought a show here that really inspired me. I dont even remember what it was, but I saw actors doing shadow work, and it was something that really inspired me to go into the arts. So then when he welcomed me back, I was so excited. And then hes encouraged me even further after having children and being in the community for five more years to come back and do Macbeth and co-direct with him and learn with him, Day continued. So its important to say that we really love John Patrick Rice. Hes an incredible thespian artist in the community. The American soldier who sprinted into North Korea across its heavily fortified border two months ago has arrived back in the US in San Antonio, Texas, video appears to show. Pte Travis Kings release was secured with the help of Sweden and China, the White House said on Wednesday. The Right Livelihood Award known as the Alternative Nobel has been awarded to environmental activists from Kenya and Cambodia, a human rights defender from Ghana and a humanitarian group that rescues migrants in the Mediterranean Sea. The 2023 laureates stand up to save lives, preserve nature and safeguard the dignity and livelihoods of communities around the world, the award foundation said, adding that they fight for peoples right to health, safety, a clean environment and democracy. This years prize went to Phyllis Omido from Kenya and the groups Mother Nature Cambodia and SOS Mediterranee. They care for their land and each human life connected to it: be it Indigenous communities or people risking their lives to get to safety They will share a cash prize but for security reasons its size cannot be disclosed, the award foundation said. The 2023 honorary award was given to Eunice Brookman-Amissah from Ghana. Ole von Uexkull, the head of the Stockholm-based Right Livelihood foundation, said of the winners: They care for their land and each human life connected to it: be it Indigenous communities or people risking their lives to get to safety. The Cambodian advocacy group was cited for its fearless and engaging activism to preserve Cambodias natural environment in the context of a highly restricted democratic space, while the non-profit charity that operates in international waters north of Libya was credited with carrying out life-saving humanitarian search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean Sea. Kenyan grassroots environmental activist Ms Omido received the award for her ground-breaking struggle to secure land and environmental rights for local communities while advancing the field of environmental law, organisers said. Greta Thunberg was a previous winner (TT News Agency via AP) The foundation said Ms Brookman-Amissah was honoured for pioneering discussions on womens reproductive rights in Africa, paving the way for liberalised abortion laws and improved safe abortion access. This year there were 170 nominees from 68 countries. The foundation said the laureates will be recognised at an award presentation in Stockholm on November 29. Created in 1980, the annual Right Livelihood Award honours efforts that the prize founder, Swedish-German philanthropist Jakob von Uexkull, felt were being ignored by the Nobel Prizes. To date, 190 laureates from 74 countries have received the award. Ole von Uexkull is a nephew of the prize founder. Previous winners include Ukrainian human rights defender Oleksandra Matviichuk, Congolese surgeon Denis Mukwege and Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. Ms Matviichuk and Mr Mukwege received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2022 and 2018, respectively. Brussels has warned European companies and governments that it could ban the sale of certain components to Turkey and other countries from where Iran and Russia are sourcing parts for drones and other weapons striking Ukrainian cities. The comments from the European Commission follow a leak to the Guardian of a 47-page document in which the Ukrainian government detailed the use of western technology and appealed for long-range missiles to attack drone production sites in Russia, Iran and Syria. The Ukrainian paper, submitted to the G7 governments in August, claimed there had been 600 raids on cities using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) containing western technology in the previous three months. Five European companies, including a Polish subsidiary of a British multinational, were named as the original manufacturers of the identified components. There is no suggestion of any wrongdoing by the western companies whose parts were identified. Iranian UAV production has adapted and mostly uses available commercial components, the supply of which is poorly or not controlled at all, the paper said. Customs information was said to show that almost all the imports to Iran originated from Turkey, India, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Vietnam and Costa Rica. A European Commission spokesperson said evidence that components were being sourced via such countries shows that EU sanctions are creating significant pressure on their targets but there needs to be tougher enforcement by member states. He said: This means keeping a close eye on foreign operators that are re-exporting EU-sanctioned goods without the knowledge of the EU exporter. For that scenario, we have sought the support of third countries authorities to make sure that goods exported from the EU to those countries do not reach Russia. The EU sanctions envoy, David OSullivan, is working closely with third-country jurisdictions to ensure that our sanctions are not circumvented. People watch an apartment building damaged by a drone that was shot down during a Russian overnight strike on Kyiv in May 2023. Photo: AP/Andrew Kravchenko The spokesperson said this initiative has shown some first tangible results and a priority list of sanctioned battlefield goods has been drawn up to which businesses should apply particular due diligence and which third countries must not export to Russia. He added: In some cases, however, these diplomatic efforts may prove to be insufficient, or there may simply not be any willingness to make them. If nothing else works then the only remaining option is to stop exporting to those third countries the very specific goods we are most concerned about, using the EUs anti-circumvention tool. "This tool would allow the EU to prohibit the export of these goods to the countries which are used to circumvent our sanctions, and also to prohibit the provision of associated services. The 10th sanctions package included for the first time seven Iranian entities that have been using EU components and providing Russia with military Shahed drones to attack civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. "This should act as a strong deterrent to other companies and international traders that circumvention of export restrictions will not be tolerated. Among the European-made items found in Shahed-131 and 136 drones used by Russia in Ukraine were fuel pumps, transistors, power management circuits and microprocessors. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni has launched a pact with the countrys industry aimed at keeping prices down on a range of essential goods, including food, personal care and baby items. Consumer advocates said it could mean billions in savings for families. The experimental programme runs from October 1 to December 31 and involves 32 associations that have agreed to discount or maintain a ceiling on the prices of particular items during the three-month period. I think this is the first time that the entire Italian system, from food production to general consumer products, signed a pact with the government to keep prices in the shopping cart under control, to help families, especially those in difficulty, Ms Meloni said. The Assountenti consumer group praised the project, calculating potential savings at four billion euros (3.46 billion) but said there are many unknowns, including exactly which products are included. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni signed the deal on Thursday (PA) The industry players include supermarket chains, small retailers as well as food and medicine producers. Participating shops are expected to signal their participation with stickers in the green, red and white colours of the Italian flag. Inflation is a challenge for Italys government, even if it has fallen from peaks following Russias invasion of Ukraine. Italys economic development minister, Adolfo Urso, said the countrys inflation has dropped below the European Unions average, from 11.7% when Ms Meloni took office last October to 5.4% in September. The European Unions statistics office will release new inflation figures on Friday. Consumer prices in August rose 5.9% in the 27-nation EU from a year earlier and 5.2% in the 20 countries using the euro currency. That is down from the eurozones record-high 10.6% in October 2022. Junta troops beheaded three residents of a village in Sagaing Regions Pale Township, and disemboweled one of them before departing the village on Wednesday, according to local sources. One of the three men beheaded was a member of a Peoples Defense Force (PDF) in Nyaunggon Village and the other two were civilians, one source said. Their bodies were discovered after junta troops left the village on Wednesday. Junta troops had arrived the day before. Villagers fled when junta troops came. The three [residents] were killed as they returned to the village, thinking that junta troops had left, said Ko Zaw Htet, a member of the Pale Township Peoples Administration. Junta troops hung one head on a fence, and put another on a chair at an intersection. The third [victim] had his abdomen cut open, intestines taken out, limbs cut off and [then] put into his abdomen, he said. The junta troops that killed the three residents of the village entered Pale Township on September 9 from Salingyi Townships Kyartet Village. They raided Nyaunggon Village on Tuesday, the same day that United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights released a report saying that the juntas military was increasingly resorting to brutal campaigns against any perceived opponent and that some of these acts may constitute crimes against humanity and/or war crimes. Pro-junta Telegram channels said that the three men who were beheaded were PDF fighters, and that two rifles, four magazines and 100 bullets and a walkie-talkie were seized by junta forces. Ko Zaw Htet said only one of the three men who were beheaded was a resistance fighter and that the other two were civilians. At least five civilians were killed by indiscriminate Myanmar junta shelling in Kale Township, Sagaing Region, during two days of clashes with resistance forces. The Chinland Defense Force (CDF), based in Kale Township in Sagaing Region and Gangaw Township in Magwe Region, told The Irrawaddy on Thursday that four men and a woman were killed in Shar Hpo village on Wednesday. Four men died in junta shelling and a woman who witnessed the incident died of a heart attack on Wednesday, a CDF representative said. The shells were fired from nearby Kyan Thar, a pro-junta Pyu Saw Htee village, where regime infantry are stationed, resistance forces said. Clashes broke out with the CDF, Kalay Peoples Defense Force and other resistance allies at Aung Thar Yar village on Tuesday morning when three groups of junta troops and Pyu Saw Htee allies advanced into the village, which is a resistance stronghold. At least two junta troops were killed and two injured, while two resistance fighters were killed and two injured on Tuesday, the CDF said. Another skirmish broke out near Man Taw village on Wednesday while junta troops from Aung Thar Yar pushed into nearby villages. The Irrawaddy was unable to verify the casualty figures and communications are down in Kale Township. Tension remains high in the township and resistance forces urged residents to avoid the clashes. The CDF said fighting would continue until the junta infantry retreated. Thousands of residents have recently fled their homes. The United Nations reported on Wednesday that at least 813,500 people had been displaced in Sagaing Region. Clashes have broken out between resistance groups and the juntas military in Shwegu Township, Kachin State as they fight for control of the strategic area located near the border with Sagaing Region, according to residents. Residents believe the Peoples Defense Force (PDF) under the National Unity Government (NUG) and local defense forces are attempting to take control of Shwegu because it is located at the southernmost edge of Kachin State and could give geographical advantages to the resistance groups in Sagaing. This area could provide a direct route connecting the PDFs in Sagaing to the Kachin Independence Army [KIA] or other ethnic revolutionary organizations, helping their attempts to get arms, or to develop joint operations, said a resident. He said the KIA is strongly supporting the resistance groups in the Shwegu Township area, adding that control of the location could allow them to cut the junta militarys transportation routes. Shwegu is located on the Ayerwaddy River bank. Due to the curving path of the river, boats passing near the township have to move very slowly. This makes boats carrying military supplies and troops very vulnerable in this spot. In the last week, at least three clashes have broken out between the juntas military and Myo Hla PDF, a resistance group that is active in the area, and at least nine junta troops have been killed. Troops from battalions under the militarys Light Infantry Division 88 were stationed at Thinbaw Inn village on Sept. 20 to guard six vessels carrying food supplies to the juntas military units in Kachin State. Kachin PDF (K-PDF) and Myo HLA PDF ambushed the vessels along the river on that day and also on Sept. 21. Clashes broke out both on the river and on land in the following days as well. In response to the attacks by the PDF, the juntas military deployed more troops in Shweku Township on Sept. 22. The military columns have been advancing and raiding villages in the western part of Shweku, and junta troops have torched houses in some villages. Clashes broke out on Sept. 22 and 25 near Yay Hle and Sin Tat villages, forcing residents to flee. We dont dare go back to the village, as clashes could break out at any time and they [junta troops] could also still be in and around the village. We are just worried that more clashes will break out, said a 45-year-old farmer who is now taking shelter in a village with her husband. Residents said the juntas military also burned down dozens of houses in Yay Hle and Sin Tat villages. As the juntas military columns are moving around, hundreds of residents from these villages have fled into the town and to safer villages. Junta troops arrested 20 residents from Yay Hle Village and 10 residents of Moe Sitt Village over several days starting from Sept. 18. We havent heard anything about those detainees, and the villages are empty now. Some believe they might already have been killed somewhere in the jungle, said a Yay Hle resident who is now taking shelter with her family in Shweku Town. As they are losing their clashes with the PDFs, the juntas military has been committing atrocities and violence against civilians not only in Shweku, but also in other connecting townships located along the border between Kachin and Sagaing. In Mogaung Township, the military arrested about 200 residents, accusing them of participating in or supporting resistance activities. Of these, only 30 were released. At least four were killed in detention at military interrogation centers, according to the residents. On Wednesday, the junta militarys Light Infantry Battalion 102 fired three shells into Joe Htaung Village, Wuntho Township, Sagaing Region at around 12:30 p.m. The shells exploded in a monastery compound in the village where children were attending the monastic school. According to a statement from the Ministry of Defense under the NUG released Thursday, 18 children were injured, of whom six are in critical condition. The junta lost 62 military camps in southeastern Myanmar as a result of offensives by the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and its allies between February 2021 and July 2023, the Karen Peace Support Network (KSPN) said in a recent report. The juntas ability to control southeastern Myanmar has significantly diminished both militarily and in terms of governance, according to the report A Shifting Power Balance: Junta Control Shrinks in Southeast Burma released by the KSPN on September 26. Twenty-four military camps were captured and 38 were forcibly abandoned from February 2021 to July 2023 by the KNLAthe armed wing of the Karen National Union (KNU)and its allies, the report said, adding that the expansion of territory under their control now directly threatens the regimes central transport artery between Yangon and Naypyitaw. The regime has also lost control of 370 schools, which are now governed by the KNUs education department, according to the KSPN. As the KNLA and its allies continue to expand the territory they control, the junta has escalated its artillery and air attacks on local communities, it said. The KSPN said that from February 2021 to July 2023 there were 417 air strikes on targets in territory controlled by the KNLA and its allies and that they killed 41 people and injured 145 more. There were also 1,178 artillery attacks, which killed 88 people and injured 342 more people in the same period, it said. The report said 19 schools, 15 churches, 10 monasteries and six clinics were destroyed by the regimes artillery attacks and airstrikes. Escalating artillery and air attacks have failed to reverse the juntas loss of territory, but they have increased the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Karen State to at least 637,414, an increase of 20 percent since February this year, the KPSN said. The KPSN is urgently appealing for US$43 million to provide emergency rice for IDPs. The KSPN is an umbrella organization of 30 civil society groups that has facilitated humanitarian support for conflict-affected Karen communities, IDPs, and refugees for decades. It also works to empower local Karen communities, document human rights issues, and facilitate advocacy for a sustainable and equitable peace in ethnic Karen areas. It has been three months since the fighting broke out between junta troops and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) near KIA headquarters at Laiza in northern Myanmars Kachin State. Some 10 junta battalions under Northern Command are involved in the conflict, which erupted in Nam San Yang village, Waingmaw Township. The fighting broke out after the military launched assaults on Nam San Yang, just 30 kilometers northwest of Laiza. The KIA side consists of troops from Brigades 3 and 5, and headquarters. The Kachin ethnic armed group did not defend from a fixed position but responded by ambushing junta troops marching in two directions from Kachin States capital of Myitkyina and Waingmaw as well as from Bhamo and Myothit. Civilians have not been able to use the Myitkyina-Bhamo road for months. The regime assembled the 10 battalions from military units across Kachin State, which has left troop shortages in other parts of Kachin State. The KIA has exploited the situation by attacking areas where gaps have been left. September, the third month of the battle, has seen at least 12 clashes in Katha, Waingmaw, and Tanai and on roads leading to Nam San Yang. The KIA has seized and occupied several junta outposts, inflicting heavy casualties on regime troops who have responded by calling in airstrikes. Assessment of Nam San Yang fighting The regimes depleted military is no longer able to deploy large numbers of troops in Nam San Yang. Its Northern Command can currently boast no more than 70 battalions of infantry and light infantry. During previous conflicts with the KIA in 2017 and 2018, it was able to muster over 100 battalions from other parts of the country to fight in Kachin. But the troops are now tied up in a multi-front conflict that has raged nationwide following the 2021 coup. So, why has the regime persisted in this battle for over three months despite making no real progress toward Laiza? Nam San Yang and Laiza had previously been fairly calm since the battle of Alaw Bum in March 2021. The KIA is cooperating with the parallel civilian National Unity Government (NUG) in its push to oust the junta. It has been arming Peoples Defense Forces (PDFs) in central Myanmar and conducting military operations with them. It also harbors many civil servants who joined the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) against military rule. The regime is now hoping to distract the KIA by barking at its front door, so to speak. The junta appears to have calculated that it can prolong the fighting and eventually gain the upper hand thanks to advantages in military expenditure and ammunition. However, that calculation has proven to be wrong. The KIA has not just waited for junta forces to arrive and attack them. Instead, they have responded by ambushing enemy troops, raiding their outposts, and attacking their hollowed-out rear. KIA forces have exploited their knowledge of local terrain to surprise junta troops and seize outposts near Nam San Yang. The regime has meanwhile failed to concede that the KIA has sufficient forces and weaponry to repulse its ground attacks. Instead, it has responded by deploying air power in the battle. However, its scope for attacks is limited by the fact that Laiza is on the border with China. Only in emergencies can the regime airlift small amounts of troops, food and ammunition as reinforcements. Its capacity to conduct significant airborne operations is almost nil. The normal air route for supplies of food and weapons by plane to Bhamo then helicopter to Nam San Yang is no longer viable for the depleted regime. The Mandalay-Myitkyina railway is also out of service. The only supply route left is the Ayeyarwady River where junta flotillas are frequently attacked by resistance forces. The KIA has also taken advantage of the vacuum that has appeared in regime battalions elsewhere in Kachin State, seizing outposts in Hpakant in August and along the road to Sumprabum this month. Junta military leadership in northern Myanmar has been unstable during the battle of Nam San Yang, with punishment handed down to division and battalion commanders and transfers for Bureau of Special Operations chiefs. The turmoil offers more evidence of a decline in the militarys combat capability. But discipline within the ranks persists, with many junta soldiers still obeying orders to fight. The military also maintains an air and artillery advantage over resistance forces. Moreover, it has shown no hesitation in killing civilians during the battle. Casualty numbers for the Nam San Yang battle this month are difficult to calculate. The KIA has gained the upper hand in most clashes, except for fighting in Hpakants Hong Par village on September 11, when five KIA members were killed and their weapons seized in a joint attack by junta troops and the allied Shanni Nationalities Army. While the junta is counting on victory by fighting a long and grinding battle against the KIA, its troops are growing combat weary. Fervor and morale in the ranks are being sapped by heavy casualties and difficult conditions, as Nam San Yang exposes the regimes military weak point. (Moe Set Nyein Chan is a military analyst) Thermoelectric materials that convert heat energy directly into electricity have been around for years. Since the middle of the 20th century they have been used to produce electrical power in locations where moving and turning shafts, such as are found in generators, would not be appropriate, for instance in space probes. The rover Perseverance has been wandering the surface of Mars for the last two and a half years using a plutonium based thermoelectric generator that provides 110 watts of power for its radio and computer and will probably do so for the next 20 years to come. Going back to 1959, many Russians who used kerosene-based lamps to illuminate their homes could also power their kitchen radios by placing a multi-finned thermoelectric generator directly on top of the lamp that captured the differential in temperature. The heat rising from the flame (570 F) gave enough power so that the average farmer could now enjoy Radio Moscow every evening. A thermoelectric generator works by exploiting the difference of electron concentration in materials when subjected to a difference in temperature. Consider a bar of copper that is heated at only one end. The electrons will re-arrange themselves within the copper to form a voltage difference that further stops the flow of those wanting to flee the hot end. The effect is unfortunately not really observable by a voltmeter using copper wires because both leads will generate equal voltages that buck each other out like two batteries placed opposite to each other in series. But when two different metals are used, say copper and iron, the electron concentrations can be different and this nulling-out does not occur. This was the discovery made by Estonian-born German physicist Thomas Johann Seebeck in 1821, who found that when two wires made from different metals are joined at two ends to form a loop, a voltage develops in the circuit when one of the junctions undergoes heating. This phenomenon, now called the Seebeck Effect, can be put to good use because large amounts of current can be easily generated with a small difference in temperature. Unfortunately, the voltage generated per junction is usually just a few microvolts per degree in temperature difference. When one junction is used, it is called a thermocouple. In PHYSICS 107 at Great Basin College, I would often have students make their own thermocouples and chart the voltages produced by them. In this way we could determine the temperature of the flame of a match. Some handheld instruments use this tiny voltage produced from the thermocouple to provide a signal, and after processing with electronics, provide a digital readout of temperature. Many stoves and furnaces are controlled by this technology and one can buy different thermocouples made of different materials for different applications. Unfortunately, microvolts cannot power a radio, and so to overcome this limitation, manufacturers of thermoelectric generators put hundreds of junctions in series, each one adding their tiny voltage until enough is made to operate the powered device. One example of thermoelectric technology that is gaining ground and one you may see in the future is to convert the wasted heat from a cars engine and make electricity from it by placing the thermoelectric generator mechanism along the muffler pipe, effectively replacing the belt driven alternator, thereby cutting gasoline consumption about six percent. That would save me $4 each time I fill up, allowing me to at least buy a coffee and donut and feel good that I am saving our planet at the same time! In the search for thermoelectric materials with the best possible properties, a research team at Vienna University of Technology in Austria have investigated various metallic alloys and found that a mixture of nickel and gold proved particularly promising. The researchers recently published their results in the September 18 issue of the journal Science Advances. The research team there found that gold metallic alloys have high conductivity and an exceptionally large Seebeck voltage per degree of temperature. Their paper says that mixing the magnetic metal nickel with the noble metal gold radically changes the electronic properties, and as soon as the yellowish color of gold disappears when about 10 % nickel is added, the thermoelectric performance increases rapidly. They believe that the enhanced Seebeck effect is rooted in the energy-dependent scattering behavior of the electrons, and due to the particular electronic properties of the nickel atoms, positive charges are scattered more strongly than negative charges, resulting in an overwhelming imbalance between the metals and hence a high thermoelectric voltage. According to the group, such colossal values above room temperature exceed those of state-of-the-art semiconductors by an order of magnitude, implying a great potential for thermoelectric electrical power generation. SPARKS, Nev. The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) and Made in Nevada are seeking nominations for the third annual Nevada Agriculture, Food and Beverage Small Business of the Year Award. This annual award recognizes the extraordinary work done by agriculture, food and beverage industries in Nevada. Nominations are due by Dec. 1, 2023. The individuals that make up Nevadas agriculture, food and beverage industries work tirelessly to provide local, fresh products for our state, said NDA Director J.J. Goicoechea. This recognition is a small token of appreciation for the dedication they have to our communities in the Silver State. Nominations are encouraged for any Nevada small business that provides locally produced agriculture, food or beverage products. Businesses are also able to self-nominate. To be eligible, businesses must be licensed in Nevada, produce or manufacture at least 51 percent of their agriculture, food or beverage product in Nevada and have less than 150 employees. Nevada is home to a diverse array of agricultural producers, restaurants, breweries and distilleries, and its important to Made in Nevada, the Nevada Small Business Development Center (SBDC), and the College of Business at the University of Nevada, Reno, that we honor the hardworking individuals who make this state a world-class food destination and an incredible place to live, said Nevada SBDC Community Project Manager Brad Scribner. Recognizing these Nevada made businesses publicly is the least we can do to show our appreciation for their contributions to our state. In its inaugural year, Tsp. Baking Company, based in North Las Vegas, received the 2021 award, and Frey Ranch Distillery, based in Fallon, was named the 2022 recipient. Nominations can be made at agri.nv.gov. 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. ELKONot far from the airport, at a horseshoe-shaped brick building on the west side of Elko, a small group of school officials, government officials, and construction workers gathered under the sun for a groundbreaking event. The Elko Institute of Academic Achievement, a free public charter school, was repurposing the property as their new school building. Formerly used as the Barrick Gold Corp. offices, it would now house kindergarten through eighth-grade students. While a ribbon-cutting event with students was planned for spring 2024, Lucas Ingvoldstad, the State Director for USDA Rural Development, said there was a need to gather the community before the buildings completion to share the story of how the new space came together. Were going to see how those dollars are being spent and how this is changing into what we see in these renderings, he said of the architectural plans and funds for the new school. Ingvoldstad explained how his agency is committed to meeting educational needs throughout rural Nevada and throughout rural communities. In 2022, USDA Rural Development announced a $64 million grant for applications to purchase educational infrastructure and resources. Surely, other federal agencies have a presence throughout rural Nevada in the nation, but we are the only federal agency thats entirely dedicated to working in the rurals, Ingvoldstad said. Their work directly impacted the acquisition of the new school building. The EIAA first approached Rural Development in May of 2019, Ingvoldstad explained. In September 2021, the school approved an $8.1 million loan, collaborating with construction and architects to put the project out to bid. However, the bids came back too expensive, he said. We had to revisit. In December of 2022, the school took advantage of the opportunity to purchase this, where were standing right now, at a discounted price. So again, with the help of Elko Federal Credit Union, theyve issued a bridge loan for the purchase. A few months ago, a revised letter of conditions was issued, which Ingvoldstad said approves the change in scope for the purchase of the building the school decided to repurpose an existing building instead of constructing a new one. June 2023 saw them approving a remodel of the former Barrick Gold Corp. building. Then you fast forward to July 28, 2023. We finally closed on that, and that was significant, as the 2020 census data is being implemented at the end of this fiscal year. Along with approving funding prior to 2020 census data being implemented at the end of this fiscal year, Ingvoldstad said the main challenge was with logistics of revisiting the bids. Originally they were planning to construct a new building, which is what those bids went out as, and then we revisited and thats when they decided to purchase this building as opposed to constructing a new plan, he said. So this is essentially adding a space for 200 additional students, Ingvoldstad continued. Additionally, this is going to create two classrooms per grade as opposed to one where it is right now. Nailing down property and space where public school classes can take place is not always the easiest task. EIAA Board Chair Dennis Zimmerman explained the change in space, which occurred through a series of major accomplishments for a little school. The school previously held classes inside a warehouse, with the classrooms divided first by walls on wheels and then small partitions, neither of which worked to hold in noise from the students. Later, the school was able to build higher walls to cut down noise and install dropped ceilings to give individual lighting sources to each classroom. The biggest accomplishment of the last two years was putting doors on the classrooms, Zimmerman said. And now fast forward to today, Zimmerman continued. Our accomplishment is this will be 18 classrooms here in just under six months. At its beginning in 2009, the school hosted an average of 22 students per classroom, adding up to a total of 198 students in the whole school, Zimmerman said. This fall, they doubled their kindergarten through fourth-grade student population, adding five more classrooms and bringing the tally up to 308 students. And so we ran our lottery, we contacted our kids, and within the week we had all of those classes full, Zimmerman said. And in the process of doing that, we had to find locations to house our older grades five through eight. And so weve been able to partner with the Boys and Girls Club here in Elko. Four classrooms in the building are currently set aside for fifth grade through eighth grade. This year, our plan is to bring one fourth-grade class and then fifth through eighth this year, and then at the beginning of next year, well open up full capacity in this building, said EIAA Vice Principal Lori Lynch. Offering event attendees a brief walking tour of the under-renovation building, which was currently having its ceilings installed, Lynch pointed out that the kindergarten through third-grade classes have space downstairs and fourth-grade through eighth-grade classes have space upstairs. The upstairs also contains a flex room that will be used as a library. Over the last five years, when we started the vision and a dream of having our own school building, weve had a lot of hills to climb, Zimmerman said. There isnt an ounce of property in the city of Elko that we havent looked at and kicked a few rocks around and tried to envision or write on a napkin and put a drawing together about is this going to be the place for us? And then all of a sudden, this place came up, he explained. I always envisioned a school with stucco or steel or tin on the walls. I never in my biggest dreams imagined we would have a brick building. Zimmerman explained how the new building would directly benefit the schools wellbeing. Theres a system in the state of Nevada where the kids are tested and they give each school a star rating, he explained. Of all the elementaries in the state of Nevada, 450 of them, our star rating puts us at number 16 for an elementary. For middle school, out of about 250 middle schools, our star rating puts us at number five. Were down to single digits and were looking at making improvements. This building is going to help us make those improvements. Ingvoldstad expressed his thankfulness toward the projects contributors, which included Elko Federal Credit Union, Nevada Gold Mines, Elko County Commission, the City of Elko and the Pennington Foundation. He also thanked MGM Construction and Babcock Design. Moving the EIAA to a new location required time, effort and money from many parties. Its been a long journey. But here we are standing at the precipice of starting a new chapter for our little schools history, Zimmerman said. LAS VEGAS (AP) A teenager accused of intentionally driving a stolen vehicle into a bicyclist in Las Vegas, killing him, told a police officer after his arrest that he expected he would be out of custody in 30 days because he was a juvenile. Its just ah ... hit-and-run, the teen said after the Aug. 14 crash, according to a police arrest report released Monday. Slap on the wrist. The admission was recorded on the officers body-worn camera, police said, after investigators located a stolen Hyundai allegedly used in the apparently intentional crash that killed bicyclist Andreas Andy Probst. Probst, 64, was a retired police chief from the Los Angeles-area city of Bell. The vehicle had major front-end damage and a broken windshield ... consistent with an automobile versus pedestrian collision, the police report said, and fresh blood on the windshield. The car was found abandoned with the engine running on a busy thoroughfare in northwest Las Vegas. Police said they later chased two people who ran from another wrecked car and arrested one of them, the alleged driver, who was 17 at the time. He is now 18. He was later identified by a witness as the person who was behind the wheel of the vehicle that struck Probst, according to the report. His alleged 16-year-old accomplice was arrested Sept. 19 after cellphone video he allegedly shot of the vehicle striking Probst became public. Police said they seized that teenagers cellphone and located the saved video of the crash. Both teens appeared separately in courts Tuesday as adults on charges including murder, attempted murder and battery with a deadly weapon. Judges told them they will remain jailed without bail pending preliminary hearings of evidence. David Westbrook, a public defender representing the older defendant, and Dan Hill, newly hired attorney for the 16-year-old, each declined to comment about the case outside court. Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson told reporters that prosecutors will seek to consolidate the cases for trial. He would not say if the case would be presented to a grand jury. Indictments against the teens would make preliminary hearings moot. Under Nevada law, the teens cannot face the death penalty. If they are convicted in adult court of murder committed before they were 18, the most severe sentence they can receive is 20 years to life in state prison. Police and prosecutors said the teenagers initially struck a 72-year-old bicyclist with a stolen Kia Soul and drove away. They later allegedly crashed a black Hyundai into a Toyota Corolla and again drove away before striking Probst. The bicyclist in the first incident suffered a knee injury but was not hospitalized, police said. The video, shot from the front passenger seat, recorded the teens talking and laughing as the stolen Hyundai steers toward Probst and hits his bicycle from behind. Probsts body slams onto the hood and windshield. A final image shows the bicyclist on the ground next to the curb. Police announced on Aug. 29 that they became aware of the video circulating at a high school and were searching for the person who recorded it. In the days after the video emerged, the Las Vegas Review-Journal newspaper and a reporter who covered Probsts death endured vicious attacks online for a story in which the reporter interviewed the retired chiefs family. The original headline: Retired police chief killed in bike crash remembered for laugh, love of coffee. Review-Journal Editor Glenn Cook said Tuesday that what he had characterized as a firehose of hatred based on claims that before the video surfaced the newspaper downplayed the killing of a retired law enforcement official has since dissipated. I think the mob has moved on, Cook said. CARSON CITY, Nev.The Central Nevada Regional Water Authority (CNRWA) and Humboldt River Basin Water Authority (HRBWA) recently approved the submission of applications to purchase and retire groundwater rights from willing sellers. $25 million is available from the Nevada Water Conservation and Infrastructure Initiative. The funds are to purchase and permanently retire groundwater rights from willing sellers in groundwater basins with insufficient water supply to serve all water rights and domestic wells. Funding is available for over-appropriated and over-pumped groundwater basins in the Central Hydrographic Region and Humboldt River Basin. The program addresses and avoids conflicts with existing rights or detriments to the public interest and natural resources. Retiring groundwater rights will help stabilize groundwater levels. Funding priorities are for retiring irrigation rights in over-pumped basins subject to curtailment. Purchasing groundwater rights in other over-appropriated basins will also be considered if such purchases mitigate conflicts with existing rights or if there are detriments to natural resources. If funding is approved in October, CNRWA and HRBWA anticipate initiating the application process in early December. A list of prospective sellers must be submitted to the state by Feb. 1, 2024. The Central Nevada Regional Water Authority was established in 2005 and assists member counties (Churchill, Elko, Esmeralda, Eureka, Humboldt, Lander, Nye, Pershing, and White Pine) in addressing water resource issues so these counties will not only have an economic future but also their valued quality of life and natural environment will be maintained. The Central Hydrographic Region is the largest of Nevadas hydrographic regions and includes 23 over-appropriated groundwater basins. Nine of the over-appropriated basins located in CNRWA member counties are also over-pumped. More than 90% of the groundwater pumped in the Central Hydrographic Region is for irrigation. The Humboldt River Basin Water Authority was established in 1995 to ensure the quality and availability of water supplies within the Humboldt River Basin for the mutual benefit of the residents and industries within and visitors to Humboldt, Lander, Eureka, Elko and Pershing Counties. Some groundwater pumping in the Humboldt River Basin has created water shortages for some senior decreed surface water rights, and 19 of the 34 groundwater basins are over-appropriated, including nine that are over-pumped. About 70% of the groundwater pumped in the over-pumped basins in the Humboldt Basin is for irrigation. The Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources manages the program which is supported by funding from the American Rescue Plan Act. For more information, contact Jeff Fontaine at ccjfontaine@gmail.com and 775-443-7667. Actors perform lion dance at a show for the celebration of the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival in London, Britain, Sept. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Ying) LONDON, Sept. 24 (Xinhua) -- A show for the celebration of the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival was staged in London Chinatown on Sunday afternoon, impressing many with performances featuring Chinese culture and art. Kicking off with a lion dance, the show captivated a huge crowd in the bustling area with a variety of programs, including Chinese-style dances, instrumental performances, songs, puppet dancing, and acrobatics. The annual Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is usually celebrated with family reunions and mooncake sharing on the 15th day of August on the Chinese lunar calendar when the moon is the fullest and brightest. It falls on Sept. 29 this year. "The full moon during the Mid-Autumn Festival not only means completeness and reunion, but also symbolizes the Chinese people's vision for the peaceful and harmonious coexistence of all communities across the world," Ping Huang, secretary-general of London Chinatown Chinese Association, said in the opening speech. The excitement in the audience reached a crescendo as artists from south China's Guangdong Province performed acrobatics, traditional Cantonese opera, contemporary dance, and a rod-puppet dance with long silk. The crowd burst into a round of applause and cheers when acrobats from Guangzhou, the capital city of Guangdong, displayed extreme physical flexibility and balance. Many people took out their phones to capture the moment when a female acrobat went on pointe atop her male counterpart's shoulder in a performance combining Chinese acrobatics with Ballet. "I feel like the Chinese culture gives importance to all sorts of small things that we do not consider, so it's very beautiful," Francesca Olivieri from Italy told Xinhua during the show. Olivieri went on stage to learn several Chinese dance moves with one of the performers. She was impressed by the "so elegant" Chinese-style dances she saw during the show. Along with Olivieri on the stage learning dance moves was Giselle Hinz from Germany. She said it was very good that different people could gather together in Chinatown, a popular place for many in a city where diverse cultures can be found. Locals learn Chinese-style dances at an event for the celebration of the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival in London, Britain, Sept. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Ying) Locals watch a lion dance performance at a show for the celebration of the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival in London, Britain, Sept. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Ying) A woman takes photos at a show for the celebration of the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival in London, Britain, Sept. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Ying) An actress performs at a show for the celebration of the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival in London, Britain, Sept. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Ying) Editor: JYZ 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 24 Shares By Armin Langer, University of Florida | (The Conversation) Worn by some Muslim women, an abaya is a long, loose-fitting, robelike garment that covers the entire body, except for the face, hands and feet. Through the abaya, women can express their religious identity and dedication to following Islamic guidelines regarding modest attire. In more conservative social circles, the abaya is part of expected dress conforming to social norms and culture. In Saudi Arabia, for example, women were required to wear an abaya until 2018. Worn over everyday clothing, the abaya is typically paired with a headscarf to cover the hair. This garment finds its primary usage in North Africa; the Horn of Africa, which includes countries such as Somalia and Somaliland; and the Arabian Peninsula. Traditionally, the abaya was black or dark in color, reflecting a conservative approach. In present times, however, its design and aesthetics can vary between regions and communities. In some places, abayas may feature intricate embroidery that is specific to that locality. In others, the choice of fabric and the style of draping can differ, allowing women to align their abaya with regional fashion preferences. These regional variations offer women a way to express their cultural identity while respecting religious norms. In fact, modern abayas offering a wide spectrum of colors and innovative designs have become a fashion statement. These designer abayas offer a departure from the conventional plain styles and incorporate innovative patterns, like floral prints and geometric designs, and even metallic embellishments such as belts and pins. Why it matters In societies where Muslims constitute a minority, the abaya takes on an added layer of significance. Muslim women can use the abaya as a means to connect with their cultural heritage. But it has also drawn criticism. Critics argue that religious garments like the abaya represent a form of religious control over womens bodies and a reinforcement of patriarchy. Other critics of abayas say they object to public symbols of religious identity. Some individuals who advocate for a strong separation between religious and state affairs argue that religious expressions should be limited to private settings. France recently banned the wearing of abayas in its public schools, arguing that it was in conflict with secular principles, which has caused an uproar. Article continues after bonus IC video French schools send home girls wearing banned abaya robe BBC News Others, however, say these laws predominantly affect the countrys Muslim minority. This is because Christians do not typically express their religious identity through attire. Even when they do, Christianity often prioritizes belief over outward religious practices, as opposed to mainstream Islam. These critiques underscore the ongoing discussion surrounding the tension between religious practices and individual rights in diverse, multicultural societies. Armin Langer, Assistant Professor of European Studies, University of Florida This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. On September 26, 2023, the first Xinjiang International Tourism Photography Conference and the "Xinjiang is a Great Place" Tourism Photography Exhibition opened at the Xinjiang Art Museum in Urumqi, attracting numerous enthusiasts to visit. Photo shows visitors viewing the exhibition. (Zhang Xiuke/Guangming Picture) Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author's, GMW.cn makes no representations as to accuracy, suitability, or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information. Reddit Email 28 Shares Facebook algorithm change hits MENA independent media audiences hard ( Globalvoices.org ) Google and Meta, commonly referred to as the duopoly of the internet, dominate online access to information. In a recent showdown with authorities, these tech giants are set to block news on their networks in Canada in response to a new law mandating payment to news publishers. The decision coincides with broader challenges confronting the media industry worldwide, such as dwindling advertising revenues and heavy reliance on social networks for readership. In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region for example, Facebooks evolving relationship with the news industry, algorithm adjustments, and their repercussions on local media outlets add complexity to the landscape of news dissemination, particularly affecting smaller, independent publishers. Facebook uncertain relationship with the news industry Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has faced numerous criticisms for disseminating fake news and hate speech. The recent withdrawal from news is part of a broader shift towards prioritizing user-generated content. However, this is not the first time Facebook has vacillated over the role news should play on its platform. After going as far as collaborating closely with the news industry, injecting millions in funding, and providing media training through its Journalism Project, Facebook backpedaled. Image by Saoussen Ben Cheikh. Used with permission. In 2018, under public and regulatory pressure, Mark Zuckerberg first announced they would be making a major change to how we build Facebook, resulting in users seeing less public content, such as posts from businesses, brands, and media outlets. Over the years, the platform has been notoriously opaque about when and how it changes its algorithm, the set of rules that defines what posts are seen in what used to be called the newsfeed, its central feature section. It was renamed Feed in February 2022. Echobox, a social media management company, reported that the most recent significant Facebook algorithm change occurred in February 2023, and accelerated in May 2023. This change resulted in content from publisher pages nearly disappearing from user feeds. This sudden shift significantly reduced traffic to media websites, disproportionately affecting audiences and publishers in the Global South, including the MENA region. These regions heavily rely on social media referrals for news access. Facebooks disproportionate influence in the MENA region Social media are widely popular in the region. Despite the rise of new platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat, Facebook remains a pivotal force in the MENA region. For many, it represents the internet itself. Arabic is the third most used language on the platform. In a MENA survey conducted in 2022, around 72 percent of respondents reported daily Facebook usage. Notably, Libya (100 percent), the UAE (93 percent) and Qatar (90 percent) have exceptionally high Facebook reach relative to their population. Egypt, Morocco, and Algeria also rank in the top 10 countries for the fastest-growing Facebook user base. A more vulnerable media landscape Unlike their Western peers in more enabling environments, media outlets in the MENA region have long struggled with challenges such as digitalization, limited resources, and political repression. These unique obstacles have rendered their reporting and survival fragile. In an increasingly frail digital news landscape, publishers find themselves at the mercy of third-party platforms, where algorithmic changes beyond their control have led to news shaping and, in some cases, layoffs or even business collapse. Kamel, the founder of Raimh Post, an online local news outlet covering a remote marginalized region in Yemen, described to Global Voices the abrupt consequences of these shifts: Overnight with no pre-warning, insights and preparation our content was not shown any more on Facebook, our main channel of distribution. We have lost nearly 80 percent of our audience who used to come from Facebook to our website. Its very frustrating. We are in crisis as we have lost our audience and business. Pay or you will not be seen by your audience In a classic commercial play, Facebook initially enabled organic reach for news content, making itself indispensable, before imposing a price tag for visibility. News content that once appeared organically in users feeds, must now be sponsored for a chance to be seen. Additionally, posts with external links are downgraded as Facebook aims to keep users within its platform. This shift has frustrated users like Hassen, a young unemployed Algerian, who reported to Global Voices, Facebook should ask us what we want to see. I used to follow updates from the news and international organizations who post opportunities for jobs, training, and learnings resources, etc. I noticed that they dont appear on my feed anymore. I only see posts from friends which are often not very interesting or useful. While larger websites, often funded by states or political entities, have more capacity to adapt and pay to promote their content, the impact is more dramatic for small independent publishers due to their limited resources. Wael Sharhah, the founder of Awafi, a non-profit newsroom in Yemen dedicated to public health education, criticized Facebooks aggressive push to charge for content that was once freely accessible. He told Global Voices: It is very aggressive and irresponsible of Facebook to push us now to pay for what used to be free. We are creating the social value of the platform by empowering the public with information. While we were already struggling, it is more difficult in our region to generate revenues and report independently. The TikTok-ization of Facebook Since the internets inception, written content has been the primary medium for conveying information. According to the Reuters Digital News Report 2023, the majority of online users worldwide still prefer reading the news over watching or listening to it as it offers faster and more convenient access to information. However, the habits of younger generations, who grew up with social media and smartphones enabling easy video creation and sharing, have evolved. These social natives now consume a significantly higher number of short videos, often presented by influencers rather than traditional journalists. This shift has propelled the success of more visually-oriented social networks like YouTube, Instagram, and, more recently, TikTok, in contrast to more text-focused networks such as Facebook or Twitter. In response, Facebook and Instagram have aggressively promoted short-format video content, modifying their algorithms to prioritize video over text-based content. The downplay of text articles has badly impacted publishers. Many journalists critique the value of short videos, expressing concerns that TikTok-ification of news trivializes important issues. Mabrouka Khedir, the head of Cosmos Media, a Tunisian digital media outlet focusing on the environment, emphasized the challenges of providing context and explaining complex stories in short videos. She said to Global Voices Written news helps convey greater complexity and detail. We are already stretched, and it takes much more resources to create a good video compared to text. The deeper issue: Supporting a free press in challenging contexts As advertising revenue and audience increasingly shifted toward social media platforms, numerous local media are struggling to survive, some have already disappeared. In the MENAs highly repressive environment, there is a risk of regions turning into news desert, where there is no free, independent information, and human rights violations go unreported. Most MENA countries are languishing at the lower end of the RSFs global freedom of expression index. Despite their predominantly youthful population and the eagerness of women to participate, there is a dearth of local platforms that can amplify their voices and contribute to shaping public policies. The ongoing debate about the responsibility of social media platforms and the media industry highlights a far deeper global issue. Societies all over the world, particularly in contexts of conflict, are grappling with the fundamental importance of safeguarding press freedom. Press freedom is the foundation of democracy, peace, and development. SURREY, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Gungnir Resources Inc. (TSX-V:GUG) (OTC PINK:ASWRF) ("Gungnir" or the "Company") is pleased to report 2023 drill results from the Company's Lappvattnet high-grade nickel deposit in northern Sweden. Drilling continued to define and expand the limits of both the Main Zone and recently discovered Footwall Zone. Please refer to accompany schematic long section (see Figure 1). Highlights: High-grade central core of the Main Zone shows good continuity including new intercept of 6.10 metres of 2.47% Ni including 0.55 metres of 7.36% Ni in drill hole LAP23-01 along with several of Gungnir's 2021/22 high-grade nickel hits in drill hole LAP23-01 along with several of Gungnir's 2021/22 high-grade nickel hits Main Zone intercept 100 metres below current nickel resource Footwall Zone intersections up to 16.9 metres of 0.56% Ni Very shallow easterly plunge indicated with a total potential strike extent of approximately 1.5 kilometres Sparsely drilled east half of the property offers shallow to moderate depth targeting potential Expanded multi-year drill permit to be submitted "This round of drilling successfully accomplished our 2023 objectives and shows considerable potential to expand the deposit beyond the current 2020 Lappvattnet nickel resource, in particular the shallow down-plunge extension target in the eastern half of the property where historic drilling is very sparse. Our recently discovered Footwall Zone offers further upside potential at Lappvattnet. Significant drilling will be required to further advance and define this high-grade nickel sulphide deposit," commented Jari Paakki, CEO. The 2023 program at Lappvattnet consisted of eight holes drilled on three profiles (Sections 13E, 16E and 19E) totaling 1,910 metres; please refer to accompanying long section and results table below. Gungnir has now drilled 53 holes for 7,345 metres in three rounds at Lappvattnet from 2021 to 2023. The Main Zone was cut in five holes with the deepest intercept in drill hole LAP23-08 located on section 19E approximately 100 metres below the current nickel resource with mineralization hosted in a thicker peridotite unit similar to the western part of the deposit. Drill hole LAP23-01 further refined the central high-grade core of the Main Zone (> 5% Ni assays; pink on attached long section) which appears to plunge very shallowly to the east. Holes LAP23-02, -03 and -07 further defined continuity within the Main Zone. Three holes, LAP23-04, -05 and -06 contributed to defining the upper and lower limits, and plunge of the Main Zone. The Main Zone, on the sections drilled, dips steeply to the south at -70 to -80o and has a total strike length potential of approximately 1.5 km to the eastern property boundary. The east half of the property is sparsely drilled with most historic holes over-shooting the new refined target, and some holes drilled too deep and/or too short. The sub-parallel Footwall Zone is located about 25 to 75 metres in the structural footwall, or north of the Main Zone starting at Section 13E (apparent western limit). It was encountered in three holes drilled. Footwall intercepts include 16.9 metres of 0.56% Ni (drill hole LAP23-02) and highly anomalous Ni mineralization in holes LAP23-05 and LAP23-08 (with individual assays up to 0.62% Ni) up to 175 metres below the current resource block. Nickel in all three holes is hosted within sulphide mineralized peridotite units and its margins. The Footwall Zone is open at depth and possibly down-plunge, sharing a similar structural trend with the Main Zone. 2023 Results Table: Hole ID Zone From (m) To (m) Length (m) Ni % Cu % Co % PGEs (g/t) ETW % LAP23-01 Main 66.00 74.90 8.90 1.88 0.20 0.03 0.18 90 incl 66.00 72.10 6.10 2.47 0.25 0.04 0.24 90 incl 69.35 72.10 2.75 4.81 0.24 0.08 0.45 90 incl 69.93 70.48 0.55 7.36 0.02 0.12 0.25 90 LAP23-02 Main 110.00 117.80 7.80 0.67 0.21 0.01 0.16 60 Footwall 131.00 147.90 16.90 0.56 0.08 0.01 0.13 60 LAP23-03 Main 116.00 123.00 7.00 0.89 0.14 0.02 0.10 90 incl 121.60 122.50 0.90 3.97 0.23 0.07 0.24 90 LAP23-04 NSV LAP23-05 Footwall 249.00 256.00 7.00 0.23 0.09 0.01 0.08 55 LAP23-06 NSV LAP23-07 Main 130.00 137.40 7.40 0.51 0.30 0.01 0.01 85 incl 135.10 137.40 2.30 1.05 0.59 0.02 0.03 85 incl 136.30 136.65 0.35 1.25 2.19 0.02 0.17 85 incl 136.65 136.90 0.25 4.73 0.06 0.12 0.30 85 LAP23-08 Main 210.85 215.00 4.15 0.51 0.07 0.01 0.26 75 Main 221.00 234.00 13.00 0.67 0.10 0.02 0.38 75 Footwall 305.00 311.90 6.90 0.22 0.03 0.01 0.04 75 PGEs (g/t) = platinum (Pt) + palladium (Pd) + gold (Au) Length = Core length in metres; ETW = Estimated True Width as a percentage of core length NSV = No significant values In addition to incorporating 2023 drill data into the Company's 3D model, next steps will also include field/data reviews in the eastern part of property ahead of the next phase of work. The Company plans to submit an expanded, multi-year drill permit extension which will include potential plans for geophysical surveys. The Company also plans to evaluate metallurgical testing options. At the same time as the Lappvattnet field checks, scheduled for October, management will view drill core from four, short scout holes that the Company drilled at its Hemberget property. Preliminary drill collar co-ordinates in Swedish system RT90-2.5 (Easting/Northing), drill section, azimuth and dip in degrees, and hole length in metres (final surveys pending): LAP23-01: 1741710mE/7165216mN; 13E; azimuth: 335 o ; dip: -55 o ; length: 150m ; dip: -55 ; length: 150m LAP23-02: 1741710mE/7165216mN; 13E; azimuth: 335 o ; dip: -78 o ; length: 210m ; dip: -78 ; length: 210m LAP23-03: 1741839mE/7165215mN; 16E; azimuth: 335 o ; dip: -52 o ; length: 199m ; dip: -52 ; length: 199m LAP23-04: 1741840mE/7165214mN; 16E; azimuth: 335 o ; dip: -70 o ; length: 252m ; dip: -70 ; length: 252m LAP23-05: 1741840mE/7165214mN; 16E; azimuth: 335 o ; dip: -80 o ; length: 303m ; dip: -80 ; length: 303m LAP23-06: 1741950mE/7166265mN; 19E; azimuth: 335 o ; dip: -45 o ; length: 198m ; dip: -45 ; length: 198m LAP23-07: 1741950mE/7166265mN; 19E; azimuth: 335 o ; dip: -60 o ; length: 250m ; dip: -60 ; length: 250m LAP23-08: 1741968mE/7166225mN; 19E; azimuth: 335o; dip: -65o; length: 348m Core was logged and tagged for sampling at the Company's logging facility in Lycksele, Sweden, then shipped to ALS Minerals' Core Services Laboratory in Mala, Sweden. Core was sawed on site in Mala by ALS staff and prepped sample material was sent to ALS's Lab in Ireland. Core was analyzed for multi-elements using code ME-MS41, CuOG46 analysis for >10000 ppm Cu, NiOG46 analysis for >10000 ppm Ni, and Pt, Pd, and Au were analyzed using fire assay method PGM-ICP27. Blanks, certified standards and duplicates are routinely included in sample batches for quality assurance and control. Gungnir's nickel resources in Sweden currently total 177 million pounds (80.5 million kg) of nickel: Lappvattnet: Inferred Resource of 780,000 tonnes grading 1.35% nickel for 23.1 million lbs (10.5 million kg) of nickel. Rormyrberget: Inferred Resource of 36,800,000 tonnes grading 0.19% nickel for 154 million lbs (70 million kg) of nickel. The NI 43-101 Technical Report entitled "TECHNICAL REPORT on the LAPPVATTNET and RORMYRBERGET DEPOSITS, NORTHERN SWEDEN" was prepared by Reddick Consulting Inc. Qualified Persons are John Reddick, M.Sc., P.Geo., and Thomas Lindholm, M.Sc., Fellow AusIMM. The Effective Date is November 17, 2020. The technical information in this news release has been prepared, verified and approved by Jari Paakki, P.Geo., CEO, and a director of the Company. Mr. Paakki is a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101. About Gungnir Resources Gungnir Resources Inc. is a Canadian-based TSX-V listed mineral exploration company (GUG: TSX-V, ASWRF: OTCPK) with gold and base metal projects in northern Sweden. Gungnir's assets include two nickel-copper-cobalt deposits, Lappvattnet and Rormyrberget, both with updated nickel resources, and the Knaften project which hosts a developing intrusion-hosted gold system, and VMS (zinc-copper) and copper-nickel targets, all of which are open for expansion and further discovery. The Company has also recently added the Hemberget property to its Swedish property portfolio targeting potential copper-nickel and VMS mineralization. Further information about the Company and its properties may be found at www.gungnirresources.com or at www.sedar.com. On behalf of the Board, Jari Paakki, CEO and Director For further information contact: Head Office/Investor Relations Phone: +1-604-683-0484 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Jari Paakki, CEO Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Chris Robbins, CFO Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Information Certain statements in this news release may constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws (also known as forward-looking statements). Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, and may cause actual results, performance or achievements or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements or industry results expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information generally can be identified by the use of terms and phrases such as "anticipate", "believe", "could", "estimate", "expect", "feel", "intend", "may", "plan", "predict", "project", "subject to", "will", "would", and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions. Some of the specific forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to: expectations of future resource upgrades or expansions and that new drilling and assays will be incorporated into any resource upgrade or expansion; expectations that the resource extends at depth, along strike or down-plunge; extent of drilling and quantity of drill holes and timing of work permit submission and approvals; planned exploration program including anticipated drilling and geophysics, and the timing thereof; and Gungnir's plan for development of its properties and the timing thereof. Forward-looking information is based on a number of key expectations and assumptions made by Gungnir, including, without limitation: expectations of expanding and defining the existing resources are reasonable and possible; access to the resource will remain available; transportation and infrastructure will remain available as anticipated; the COVID-19 pandemic impact on the Canadian and global economy and Gungnir's business, and the extent and duration of such impact; no change to laws or regulations that negatively affect Gungnir's business; there will be a demand for Gungnir's services and products in the future; Gungnir will be able to operate its business as planned; Gungnir will be able to access capital markets on and successfully complete financings on terms it determines to be reasonable; and Gungnir's plans for future exploration and development of its properties is reasonable and will be possible within the anticipated timelines. Although the forward-looking information contained in this news release is based upon what Gungnir believes to be reasonable assumptions, it cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with such information. Forward-looking information is provided for the purpose of presenting information about management's current expectations and plans relating to the future and readers are cautioned that such statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking information involves significant risks and uncertainties and should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results as actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking information. Those risks and uncertainties include, among other things, risks related to: no certainty that any economically viable mineral deposit will be located on Gungnir's properties; that Gungnir may not be able to complete its planned drilling as anticipated; the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic; the impacts of war and/or other international conflicts; ability to access capital markets and complete successful financings on terms Gungnir determines to be reasonable; environmental matters; changes in legislation or regulations; receipt of required licenses, permits and approvals; and resource estimates may not be accurate and may differ significantly from actual mineral resources. Management believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information contained herein are based upon reasonable assumptions and information currently available; however, management can give no assurance that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained this news release is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to Gungnir. The forward-looking information is stated as of the date of this news release and Gungnir assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law. VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Ximen Mining Corp. (TSX.v:XIM) (FRA:1XMA) (OTCQB:XXMMF) (the "Company" or "Ximen") announces that it is in full swing with its drill program at the Amelia project in Camp McKinney near Rock Creek in southern BC. Active drilling at Amelia Property in September, 2023. "The Amelia Gold Mine, located in Camp McKinney, British Columbia, holds historical significance as one of the first dividend-paying gold mines in the region. Today, Ximen Mining Corp owns 100% of the camp, offering us a unique opportunity to expand the current high-grade gold vein system. This expansion was previously hindered due to ownership constraints, which have now been overcome under Ximen's ownership," states Anderson, CEO of Ximen Mining Corp. View of 3D model of Cariboo mine (looking North) showing vein blocks and current drill holes. Drilling at the Amelia property is now underway to test for extensions to the historic Cariboo-Amelia gold mine in Camp McKinney in the Greenwood Mining Division, BC. Over its 68-year history, the Cariboo-Amelia mine produced 81,602 ounces of gold and 32,439 ounces of silver from 112,254 tonnes milled (BC Minfile Records). The mine is part of a 4-kilometer system of gold-quartz veins and historic workings. Photo of core box with mineralized quartz vein intercept in hole AM23-01 Current drilling is targeting the main Cariboo or McKinney vein beneath the eastern end of the historic mine. Two holes have been completed so far (total 533 meters) and a third hole is being drilled. The target vein was intersected in hole AM23-01 at about 30 meters below the mine and consisted of 0.61 meters of banded quartz containing pyrite, sphalerite, galena and chalcopyrite, a sulphide mineral assemblage that is typical of the vein that was mined. The drill results prove that the vein extends below the mine. The core has been sampled and will be sent for analysis in due course. Close-up photo of disseminated sulphide mineralization in quartz vein in hole AM23-01 Readers are cautioned that historical records referred to in this News Release have been examined but not verified by a Qualified Person. Further work is required to verify that historical records referred to in this News Release are accurate. Dr. Mathew Ball, P.Geo., VP Exploration for Ximen Mining Corp. and a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101, approved the technical information contained in this News Release. On behalf of the Board of Directors, "Christopher R. Anderson" Christopher R. Anderson, President, CEO and Director 604 488-3900 Investor Relations: 604-488-3900, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. About Ximen Mining Corp. Ximen Mining Corp. owns 100% interest in three of its precious metal projects located in southern BC. Ximen`s two Gold projects, The Amelia Gold Mine and The Brett Epithermal Gold Project. Ximen also owns the Treasure Mountain Silver Project adjacent to the past producing Huldra Silver Mine. Currently, the Treasure Mountain Silver Project is under an option agreement. The option partner is making annual staged cash and stocks payments as well as funding the development of the project. The company has also acquired control of the Kenville Gold mine near Nelson British Columbia which comes with surface and underground rights, buildings and equipment. Ximen is a publicly listed company trading on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol XIM, in the USA under the symbol XXMMF, and in Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin Stock Exchanges in Germany under the symbol 1XMA and WKN with the number as A2JBKL. This press release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities This press release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, including statements regarding the receipt of TSX Venture Exchange approval and the exercise of the Option by Ximen. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts; they are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "aims," "potential," "goal," "objective," "prospective," and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "can," "could" or "should" occur, or are those statements, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions that forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made and they involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Consequently, there can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Except to the extent required by applicable securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include the possibility that the TSX Venture Exchange may not accept the proposed transaction in a timely manner, if at all. The reader is urged to refer to the Company's reports, publicly available through the Canadian Securities Administrators' System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) at www.sedar.com for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any state in the United States in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. 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. Ximen Mining Corp 888 Dunsmuir Street - Suite 888, Vancouver, B.C., V6C 3K4 Tel: 604-488-3900 TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 27, 2023 / Pelangio Exploration Inc. (TSXV:PX )(OTC PINK:PGXPF) ("Pelangio" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed the first tranche of a non-brokered private placement of up to $500,000 announced on September 11, 2023 (the "Private Placement"). The first tranche raised gross proceeds of $209,100 from the issuance of 6,970,000 units (the "Units") at a price of $0.03 per Unit. Each Unit consists of one common share of the Company (a "Common Share") and one Common Share purchase warrant ("Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one Common Share at a price of $0.05 until September 27, 2028. The Company paid finder's fees to Leede Jones Gable Inc. and GloRes Securities Inc. totaling $7,200 in cash and it issued 240,000 broker warrants ("Broker Warrant") on gross proceeds raised by eligible arm's length parties. Each Broker Warrant is exercisable to acquire one common share of the Company at a price of $0.05 per warrant on the same terms noted above. All finder's fees are subject to compliance with applicable securities legislation and TSX Venture Exchange policies. All securities issued in this closing of the Private Placement are subject to statutory four month hold periods expiring on January 28, 2024. The Private Placement remains subject to obtaining final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. Certain insiders of the Company participated in the Offering for an aggregate total of $113,100 in Private Placement. The participation by such insiders constituted a "related party transaction" as such term is defined by Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company was exempt from the MI 61 101 valuation and minority approval requirements for related party transactions in connection with the Offering under sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 as neither the fair market value (as determined under MI 61-101) of the subject matter of, nor the fair market value of the consideration for, the transaction, insofar as it involves the Related Parties, exceeds 25% of the Company's market capitalization (as determined under MI 61-101). The securities offered have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdictions in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Any offering made will be pursuant to available prospectus exemptions and restricted to persons to whom the securities may be sold in accordance with the laws of such jurisdictions, and by persons permitted to sell the securities in accordance with the laws of such jurisdictions. Change of Transfer Agent In other news, Pelangio announces the appointment of Odyssey Trust Company as the Company's registrar and transfer agent, effective immediately. Shareholders do not need to take any action with respect to the change in registrar and transfer agent services. All inquiries and correspondence relating to the shareholder records, transfer of shares, lost certificates or change of address should now be directed to Odyssey Trust Company rather than Computershare Trust Company of Canada, which has resigned at the Company's request. About Pelangio Pelangio acquires and explores world-class land packages on strategic gold belts in Ghana, West Africa and Canada. In Ghana, the Company is exploring its two 100% owned, camp-sized properties: the 100 km2 Manfo property, the site of seven near-surface gold discoveries, and the 284 km2 Obuasi property, located four km on strike and adjacent to AngloGold Ashanti's prolific high-grade Obuasi Mine, as well as its Dankran property located adjacent to its Obuasi property. In Canada, the Company is currently focused in Ontario at its newly acquired gold, silver, zinc polymetallic Kenogaming project, located 63 km southwest of Timmins, its Dome West property, situated some 800 meters from the Dome Mine in Timmins; and at its Gowan polymetallic project, located 16 km east of the Kidd Creek Mine. See www.pelangio.com for further detail on all Pelangio's properties. For additional information, please visit our website at www.pelangio.com, or contact: Ingrid Hibbard, President and CEO Tel: 905-336-3828 / Toll-free: 1-877-746-1632 / Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Forward Looking Statements Certain statements herein may contain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements or information appear in a number of places and can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate" or "believes" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements and information include statements regarding the Offering generally, the proceeds that may be raised in connection with the Offering, the proposed use of proceeds and the Company's exploration plans. With respect to forward-looking statements and information contained herein, we have made numerous assumptions, including assumptions about our ability to close additional tranches of the Offering in a timely manner, if at all, and the state of the equity markets. Such forward-looking statements and information are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statement or information. Such risks include the ability of the Company to meet the conditions of closing, our ability to conduct our exploration programs as planned, changes in equity markets, share price volatility, volatility of global and local economic climate, gold price volatility, political developments in Ghana, increases in costs, exchange rate fluctuations, speculative nature of gold exploration and other risks involved in the gold exploration industry. See the Company's annual and quarterly financial statements and management's discussion and analysis for additional information on risks and uncertainties relating to the forward-looking statement and information. There can be no assurance that a forward-looking statement or information referenced herein will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Also, many of the factors are beyond the control of the Company. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. We undertake no obligation to reissue or update any forward-looking statements or information except as required by law. All forward-looking statements and information herein are qualified by this cautionary statement. 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. HIGHLIGHTS Seven (7) multi-line, Electromagnetic ("EM") anomalies have been identified by a Versatile Time Domain Electromagnetic airborne ("VTEMmax") survey conducted on the Tyko II Property. A 900-meter long EM anomaly that was not observed by a historic airborne survey due to a power line appears to be the northern extension of the Moshkinabi-Kejimalda Zone (1.17% Cu, 0.73% Ni, 2.4 g/t Pd, 0.2 g/t Pt). A 700-meter long EM anomaly located to the east of the historical Gionet Zone (2.46% Cu, 0.22% Ni). Additionally, several single-line EM anomalies were also identified. The historic copper - nickel - PGE showings noted above are associated with the Faries-Moshkinabi Mafic-Ultramafic complex and share geological similarities to the Tyko I Property. Existing drill permits allow near term drill testing of new EM anomalies. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - Palladium One Mining Inc. (TSXV: PDM) (OTCQB: NKORF) (FSE: 7N11) (the "Company" or "Palladium One") is pleased to announce preliminary results from a VTEMmax survey on the Tyko II Property, part of the Tyko Nickel - Copper District (Figure 1). "The addition of seven (7) new VTEM anomalies to our existing inventory of drill ready targets speaks to the large scale opportunity the Tyko District represents for shareholders. Soil sampling to ground truth the seven (7) VTEM anomalies is well advanced and drill permits are in hand to test five (5) of the seven (7) anomalies. The Tyko II project has many geological similarities to Tyko I and we look forward to receipt of additional results from the property. "The recently completed VTEMmax survey is the most sensitive EM survey ever flown over the Tyko II property (Figure 2). The survey easily detected the historical Moshinkabi and Faries Lake Zones, but also detected new anomalies near the Kejimalda and Gionet Zones that had not been detected by previous airborne EM surveys. This speaks to the sensitivity of the VTEMmax system and its potential to identify targets that were overlooked by less sensitive historical EM surveys. "The 2023 ground truthing is wrapping up and the Company is on track to begin drill testing in mid-October," commented Derrick Weyrauch, President and CEO. Targets: Magmatic Cu-Ni-PGE and VMS Cu-Zn-Pb The Faries-Moshkinabi Mafic-Ultramafic Complex is associated with several Cu-Ni-PGE showings, making it a compelling target with similarities to the Company's Tyko I property. The Complex hosts the historical Moshkinabi-Kejimalda Zone with up to 1.17% Cu, 0.73% Ni, 2.4 g/t Pd, 0.2 g/t Pt in grab samples (Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines ("MENDM") Mineral Deposit Index ("MDI") 000000002357). The Moshkinabi-Kejimalda Zone lies along the interpreted basal sequence of the Complex and has limited shallow historical drilling for which the vast majority of holes have no reported assays. Significantly, the recent VTEMmax survey has identified an untested potential northern extension of the zone which was obscured from historical airborne surveys by a powerline crossing the northern part of the property (Figure 2). The Gionet Zone with grab sample assays up to 2.46% Cu, 0.22% Ni (ENDM MDI 42F04SE00012) consists primarily of a series of mineralized, highly deformed and altered gabbro boulders with pyrite, chalcopyrite and pentlandite. The Gionet Zone has never been drill tested, and notably the associated VTEMmax anomaly is actually located immediately to the east of original showing suggesting that the best part of the Zone has yet to tested (Figure 2). The world class Geco ("Volcanogenic Massive Sulphide") VMS deposit is located approximately 15 km northwest of the Tyko II Property (Figure 1). From 1957 to 1995, the Geco Mine produced over 49.3 Mt of ore grading 1.85% Cu, 3.78% Zn, and 56.2 g/t Ag (Puumala et al., 2020); in addition, the satellite Willroy, Willecho, and Nama Creek Mines entered production of copper-zinc-lead-silver ore at various times during this period. The Tyko II property contains altered volcanics rocks with similarities to those which host the Geco Mine and thus is also prospective for VMS hosted copper - zinc - lead mineralization. Figure 1. Regional location map of the Company's Tyko Project and other nearby mineral properties. Figure 2. Tyko II VTEMmax survey (VTEMmax dB/dt Z Component Calculated Time Constant (TauSF)) showing multi-line anomalies, with untested anomalies highlighted. Qualified Person The technical information in this release has been reviewed and verified by Neil Pettigrew, M.Sc., P. Geo., Vice President of Exploration and a director of the Company and the Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. About Palladium One With a focus on climate change risks and opportunities, Palladium One Mining Inc.'s (TSXV: PDM) strategy is to discover and ultimately produce critical Green Transportation Metals, including but not limited to sulphide nickel, copper, palladium, platinum and cobalt. A Canadian mineral exploration and development company, Palladium One is advancing district scale deposits in Canada and Finland. The Lantinen Koillismaa (LK) Project in north-central Finland, is a PGE-copper-nickel project that has existing NI43-101 Mineral Resources, while both the Tyko and Canalask high-grade nickel-copper projects are located in Ontario and the Yukon, Canada respectively. Follow Palladium One on LinkedIn and Twitter. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD "Derrick Weyrauch" President & CEO, Director For further information contact: Derrick Weyrauch, President & CEO Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This press release is not an offer or a solicitation of an offer of securities for sale in the United States of America. The common shares of Palladium One Mining Inc. have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration. Information set forth in this press release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that relate to future, not past events. In this context, forward-looking statements often address a company's expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect", and "intend", statements that an action or event "may", "might", "could", "should", or "will" be taken or occur, or other similar expressions. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, risks associated with project development; the need for additional financing; operational risks associated with mining and mineral processing; fluctuations in palladium and other commodity prices; title matters; environmental liability claims and insurance; reliance on key personnel; the absence of dividends; competition; dilution; the volatility of our common share price and volume; and tax consequences to Canadian and U.S. Shareholders. Forward-looking statements are made based on management's beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date that statements are made and the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API) (OTCQX: APAAF) (FSE: A0I0) (FSE: A0I0.F) (FSE: A0I0.MU) (FSE: A0I0.BE) (the "Company" or "Appia") is pleased to provide an update on the progress of its ongoing drilling program to outline the extent of the mineralized zone at Target IV on its PCH Iconic Clay Project in Brazil. To date, the Company has processed and sent 2,255 samples for analysis, from both the Reverse Circulation (RC) and Auger drill programs, and expects to release results in the near future. Summary: Completed 232 drill holes for a total of 2847.5 metres, of which: Reverse Circulation drilling: 147 holes totaling of 2,019 metres. Auger drilling: 84 holes totalling of 585 metres. Diamond drilling - Completion of 243.50 metres. Logging and sampling is ongoing, and currently, 2,255 samples have been sent to SGS Geosol laboratory for assaying. "The reverse circulation (RC) drilling has averaged roughly 13 metres depth, often exceeding 20 metres depth and encountering clayey materials in the majority of holes. Auger sampling, on the other hand, has an average depth of about 7 metres, with samples collected every meter," stated Carlos Bastos, Geology Manager and Brazilian QP. "And in specific cases, alternative methodologies have been applied to gain a deeper understanding of the mineralized zones and analytical methods." He continued, "With diamond, RC, and auger drilling activities running concurrently, the project has made substantial advancements. Our team is exceptionally pleased with the productivity, geological insights, and interpretation we have gathered thus far. We are confident that the forthcoming results from the SGS laboratory will strengthen our belief that we are positioned within a significant rare earth element ionic clay deposit." Map 1 - Location of Diamond, Reverse Circulation and Auger Drill holes at Target IV, PCH Project, Goias, Brazil "Appia's RC extensive drilling program at Target IV has reached a total of 147 holes, and we have now completed the first phase of the multi-phase drilling initiatives across our +17,000 hectare PCH Ionic Clay project in Goias State, Brazil," stated Stephen Burega, President. "Working within a very tight timeline of just 51 days, our Brazilian team oversaw the program and reached an impressive 2,019 meters drilled and assays are now pending." "The RC drill program has been augmented by exploratory auger drilling and sampling, along with ground geophysics to enhance our comprehension of the subsurface composition and the potential expansion of the known mineralized area of Target IV," he continued. In addition, the Company is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the 243.50-meter diamond drill hole, which tested a strong magnetic anomaly at depth within the alkali breccia zone. Drill core will now be logged and sampled to be sent to the SGS Geosol laboratory for assaying. Appia's geologists and technicians follow strict quality assurance/quality control protocols for sample preparation and shipment to the SGS Geosol laboratories in Brazil. Image 1 - Technician processing samples at Appia's logging facility in Brazil. Tom Drivas, CEO of Appia, expressed his satisfaction with the project's progress, stating, "We are very proud of the dedicated efforts of our team in Brazil. Operating succesfully, we have effectively covered a significant area on our 100-meter spacing grid at Target IV. Furthermore, we have expanded to a 200-meter spacing grid in adjacent areas and ventured into new prospective areas outside the known deposit with auger drilling. The large land package of the PCH Project spans over 17,000 hectares within a highly prospective region." Background on the PCH Project The PCH Ionic Adsorption Clay Project is located within the Tocantins Structural Province in the Brasilia Fold Belt, more specifically, the Arenopolis Magmatic Arc. The PCH Project is 17,551.07 ha in size and located within the Goias State of Brazil. It is classified as an alkaline intrusive rock occurrence with highly anomalous REE and Niobium mineralization. This mineralization is related to alkaline lithologies of the Fazenda Buriti Plutonic Complex and the hydrothermal and surface alteration products of this complex by supergene enrichment in a tropical climate. The positive results of the recent geochemical exploration work carried out to date indicates great potential for REEs and Niobium within lateritic ionic adsorption clays. The technical content in this news release was reviewed and approved by Mr. Don Hains, P.Geo, Consulting Geologist, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. About Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (Appia) Appia is a publicly traded Canadian company in the rare earth element and uranium sectors. The Company is currently focusing on delineating high-grade critical rare earth elements and gallium on the Alces Lake property, as well as exploring for high-grade uranium in the prolific Athabasca Basin on its Otherside, Loranger, North Wollaston, and Eastside properties. The Company holds the surface rights to exploration for 113,837.15 hectares (281,297.72 acres) in Saskatchewan. The Company also has a 100% interest in 12,545 hectares (31,000 acres), with rare earth element and uranium deposits over five mineralized zones in the Elliot Lake Camp, Ontario. Lastly, the Company holds the right to acquire up to a 70% interest in the PCH Ionic Adsorption Clay Project which is 17,551.07 ha. in size and located within the Goias State of Brazil. (See June 9th, 2023 Press Release - Click Here) Appia has 130.5 million common shares outstanding, 143.3 million shares fully diluted. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This News Release contains forward-looking statements which are typically preceded by, followed by or including the words "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans" or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee 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. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. For more information, visit www.appiareu.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: Tom Drivas, CEO and Director: 416-546-2707, (fax) 416-218-9772 or (email) This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Stephen Burega, President: (cell) 647-515-3734 or (email) This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. West Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - Surge Battery Metals Inc. (TSXV: NILI) (OTCQX: NILIF) (FSE: DJ5C) (the "Company" or "Surge") has qualified to trade on the OTCQX Best Market. Surge upgraded to OTCQX from the OTCQB Venture Market. Surge begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol NILIF. The OTCQX market is designed for established, investor-focused U.S. and international companies. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance, and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws. Graduating to the OTCQX market from the OTCQB market marks an important milestone for companies, enabling them to demonstrate their qualifications and build visibility among U.S. investors. Mr. Greg Reimer, Chief Executive Officer, and Director commented: "We are very pleased to advance to the OTCQX in order to provide our US investors with enhanced value in trading our securities." U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and real-time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com. About Surge Battery Metals Inc. The Company is a Canadian-based mineral exploration company active in the exploration for lithium in Nevada whose primary listing is on the TSX Venture Exchange. The Company maintains a focus on exploration for high value battery metals required for the electric vehicle (EV) market. About the Nevada North Lithium Project The Company owns the Nevada North Lithium Project located in the Granite Range southeast of Jackpot, Nevada about 73 km north-northeast of Wells, Elko County, Nevada. The first round of drilling, completed in October 2022, identified a strongly mineralized zone of lithium bearing clays occupying a strike length of almost 1,620 meters. Widths of the mineralized horizons are at least 400 meters, supported by highly anomalous soil values indicating potential for the clay horizons to be much greater in extent. The potential for a significant lithium deposit can be illustrated by the average lithium content within all near surface clay zones intersected in 2022 drilling, applying a 1000 ppm cut-off, was 3254 ppm. (See news release dated March 29, 2023) The 2023 drill program is underway and is designed to expand the known lithium-rich clay from the current 1,620 meters strike length to more than 3,500 meters and the known width of the mineralization to 950 meters from the previously drill-indicated 400 meters. Initial assay results from the first hole of the 2023 season had a high of 8,070 ppm lithium with an average of 4,067 ppm lithium at a 1,000 ppm cut-off. (See news release dated August 13, 2023) On behalf of the Board of Directors "Greg Reimer" Greg Reimer, President & CEO Contact Information Email : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Phone : 778-945-2656 Website: surgebatterymetals.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This document 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" or "planned", "possible", "potential", "forecast", "intend", "may", "schedule" and similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information may relate to future prices of commodities including lithium and nickel, the accuracy of mineral or resource exploration activity, reserves or resources, regulatory or government requirements or approvals including approvals of title and mining rights or licenses and environmental, local community or indigenous community approvals, the reliability of third party information, continued access to mineral properties or infrastructure or water, changes in laws, rules and regulations including in the United States, Nevada or California or any other jurisdiction which may impact upon the Company or its properties or the commercial exploitation of those properties, currency risks including the exchange rate of USD$ for Cdn$ or other currencies, fluctuations in the market for lithium related products, changes in exploration costs and government royalties, export policies or taxes in the United States or any other jurisdiction and other factors or information. The Company's current plans, expectations, and intentions with respect to development of its business and of its Nevada properties may be impacted by economic uncertainties arising out of any pandemic or by the impact of current financial and other market conditions (including US government subsidies or incentives) on its ability to secure further financing or funding of its Nevada properties. Such statements represent the Company's current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon several assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political, environmental (including endangered species, habitat preservation and water related risks) 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. Cranbrook, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - DLP Resources Inc. (TSXV: DLP) (OTCQB: DLPRF) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed the first tranche (the "First Tranche") of its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement"), whereby the Company has completed the issuance of 4,000,250 units (each, a "Unit") at a price of $0.50 per Unit for gross proceeds of $2,000,125. Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (a "Share") and one common share purchase warrant of the Company (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one common share in the capital of the Company (a "Warrant Share") for a period of twenty-four (24) months from the date of issue at an exercise price of $0.80 per Warrant Share, subject to an acceleration clause in the event the trading price of the Shares equals or exceeds $1.10 for a period of 20 consecutive days. In connection with the First Tranche, the Company issued 88,778 finder's warrants (the "Finder's Warrants") and paid commissions of $44,389. Each Finder's Warrant will entitle the holder, on exercise thereof, to acquire one Share at a price of $0.50 per Share for a period of two (2) years from the date of issuance. The securities offered in the First Tranche are subject to a four month and a day transfer restriction from the date of issuance expiring on January 29, 2023, in addition to such other restrictions as may apply under applicable securities laws of jurisdictions outside Canada. The Company intends to use the proceeds of the First Tranche for funding the Company's Peru projects and general office and administration requirements. Mr. Gendall, President and CEO commented: "With the closing of the first tranche of the private placement we can continue drilling on the Aurora porphyry molybdenum-copper project with another 3000m planned to December 2023. Encouraging results received from the first 10 holes have extended mineralization over a length of 900m and a width of at least 700m. Currently we are drilling A23-012 to a depth of 1000m and results for drillhole A23-011, drilled 249m SW of drillhole A23-010, are expected to be released in early October." Extension of the Private Placement The Company is also pleased to announce that, further to the Company's news release dated August 22, 2023, the TSXV Venture Exchange has granted the Company an extension for the closing of the Private Placement until October 20, 2023. About DLP Resources Inc. DLP Resources Inc. is a mineral exploration company operating in Southern Peru and Southeastern British Columbia, exploring for Copper, Base Metals and Cobalt. DLP is listed on the TSX-V, trading symbol DLP and on the OTCQB, trading symbol DLPRF. Please refer to our web site www.dlpresourcesinc.com for additional information. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: DLP Resources Inc. Ian Gendall, Chief Executive Officer and President Jim Stypula, Executive Chairman Robin Sudo, Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary Maxwell Reinhart, Investor Relations Telephone: 250-426-7808 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forwardlooking statements", are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements regarding discussions of future plans, estimates and forecasts and statements as to management's expectations and intentions with respect to, among other things: the use of the proceeds raised under the First Tranche and the completion of the Company's drilling program. These forwardlooking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things: market uncertainty, that the Company will not use the proceeds of the First Tranche as currently anticipated and that the Company's drilling program will not complete as currently anticipated. In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, that: the Company will use the proceeds of the First Tranche as currently anticipated and that the Company will complete its drilling program as currently anticipated. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. We seek safe harbor. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - Silver Hammer Mining Corp. (CSE: HAMR) (the "Company" or "Silver Hammer") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a definitive share purchase agreement dated September 27, 2023 (the "Purchase Agreement") to acquire a 100% interest in the Shafter silver deposit (the "Shafter Project" or the "Project"), a previously producing high-grade silver mine located in Presidio County in Southwest Texas, from Aurcana Silver Corporation ("Aurcana") (the "Transaction"). The consideration to be paid by Silver Hammer for the Shafter Project includes cash of US$800,000 (less certain exclusivity fees and prepaid expenses), 23,000,000 shares, certain contingent payments (detailed below), and for the settlement of existing debt, the issuance of $4,000,000 in secured convertible debentures and 8,000,000 units (each comprising of a common share and warrant at $0.33 for 2 years). Highlights of the Shafter Project and Transaction: All material operational permits remain in place at the past-producing high-grade silver mine, which is located in western Texas, USA. Past producer most recently in production from 2012-13 when operated by Aurcana. Approximately US$50 million was spent historically by Aurcana; in addition, Aurcana purchased the Shafter Project in 2008 for US$25 million. An estimated US$160 million has been invested in the property since the discovery of the deposit in the late 1800's. Updated NI 43-101 Mineral Resource technical report with an Effective Date of September 15, 2023, including Measured and Indicated resources of 10.8 million ounces ("oz") of silver ("Ag") in 1.152 million tons grading 9.38 oz/ton Ag, and Inferred resources of 6.3 million oz of silver in 0.823 million tons grading 7.67 oz/ton Ag. The silver deposit at the Shafter Project is classified as a carbonate replacement deposit (" CRD ") and the geology at the project is similar to some the world's largest CRDs located just to the southwest in northern Mexico, including the Santa Eulalia Mine and Cinco de Mayo Project. Additional exploration upside was identified at regional priority targets from previous step-out drill holes to the southwest, which identified silver and gold mineralization. ") and the geology at the project is similar to some the world's largest CRDs located just to the southwest in northern Mexico, including the Santa Eulalia Mine and Cinco de Mayo Project. Additional exploration upside was identified at regional priority targets from previous step-out drill holes to the southwest, which identified silver and gold mineralization. There are opportunities to expand the current mineral resource within the project boundaries, as the Project has not been systematically explored, and the source of the Shafter CRD has never been identified. Benefits from extensive site infrastructure including full access through portal/decline and extensive underground workings, ventilation and access shaft/hoist, and full processing plant including a 3,000 ton per day ball mill. Project controls existing water rights, with an available local labor force, power grid located at site, a low royalty burden, and strong community relations and support. Team of seasoned mining, metallurgical and exploration executives assembled to assist Silver Hammer as advisors and internal consultants. "The acquisition of the high-grade silver Shafter complex and permitted mine is a transformational point in Silver Hammer's transition and goal to become North America's next silver producer. Shafter contains an established mineral resource of approximately 10.8 million ounces of silver in the measured and indicated category and an additional inferred silver resource of approximately 6.3 million ounces. To ensure the project is advanced towards the development and production stages, Silver Hammer has attracted key senior level technical geological and mining advisors including previous VP Exploration and VP/COO Mining experts that held executive roles with Hudbay Minerals, Coeur Mining, Silver Standard, Centerra, Mag Silver, Probe Mines, Hecla, and Royal Oak Mines," commented Peter A. Ball, President and CEO of Silver Hammer Mining. "In addition to containing a significant silver resource, the Shafter Project is located in a politically safe jurisdiction in Texas, USA, is located adjacent to a paved highway with significant infrastructure including power grid through the middle of the Project, full control of water rights, a local work force and supportive community." Appointment of New Board Member The Company is pleased to announce the appointment of Donald J. Birak as a newly appointed Director of Silver Hammer, replacing Joness Lang, who has stepped down from the Director role but will remain as a strategic advisor to assist the Company in ongoing corporate development initiatives. The Company appreciates Mr. Lang's significant contribution to the Company since its inception and agreeing to remain with the Company as a strategic advisor during this exciting phase of growth for the Company. Mr. Birak joined the Company as a senior technical advisor earlier in 2023, and brings more than 45 years of experience in mineral exploration and operations, including the roles of Senior Vice-President of Exploration with Coeur Mining (2004 to 2013) responsible for global Greenfields and Brownfields exploration, Vice President of Exploration for AngloGold North America (1998 to 2004), Independence Mining Company (1995 to 1998), and Hudson Bay Mining & Smelting Ltd. (1992 to 1995) and Chief Geologist & Exploration Geologist for Freeport-McMoRan Gold Company (1978 to 1991), Mr. Birak brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Silver Hammer team, and specifically to the advancement of the Shafter Silver Project. Newly Formed Executive Technical Team and Strategic Advisors Silver Hammer has recently assembled a highly experience technical team to complete due diligence to fully evaluate and to assist in advancing the Shafter Project through an accelerated strategy to complete a mineral resource expansion, initiate mine development towards future production by 2027. The team is made up of the following seasoned executives: Lawrence Roulston, Director - 40+ years in project evaluation and experience mining executive. Currently President and CEO of MTB Metals Corp. and Chairman of Metalla Royalties. Ron Burk, Director - 40+ years in senior level precious metals exploration roles including VP Exploration for Silver Standard and Centerra. Silver Standard previously owned the Shafter deposit until 2008. Don Birak, newly appointed Director - 45+ years in senior level precious metals exploration roles including Sr. VP Exploration for Coeur Mining, and VP Exploration for AngloGold North America and Hudson Bay Mining Smelting. Dr. Peter Megaw, Geological Advisor - 45+ years in senior level precious metals exploration roles and recognized Carbonate Replacement Deposit ("CRD") systems. A co-founder of MAG Silver. Dr. Megaw's PhD work focused on the Santa Eulalia Ag-Pb-Zn District in Mexico, and he is credited with numerous discoveries in Mexico including Platosa (Excellon), Juanicipio-Fresnillo (Fresnillo/MAG Silver), and Pozo-Seco/Cinco de Mayo (MAG Silver). Damir Cukor, Geological Advisor - 35+ years in resource development, project management, resource modelling and advisory roles. Michael Willett, Mining Advisor - Seasoned mining executive with 35+ years in mine engineering, development, and operations including senior level project evaluation and advisory roles for project re-starts with various mining companies across North America. Most recently Mr. Willett held the position of Vice President of Operations and Projects for Battle North Gold and was part of that team which successfully sold the company to Evolution Mining for $343 Million in 2021. Adrian McNutt, Mining and Metallurgical Advisor - Experienced mining executive and metallurgical consultant with 35+ years in the evaluation and precious metals operations across the Americas including executive positions as COO of Royal Oak Mines, and Century Mining. Mike Petrina, P. Eng, Mining Advisor - 35+ years in the mining sector including senior level executive roles of VP Mining MAG Silver, VP Operations Probe Mining, VP Mining Hawthorne Gold, and multiple mine engineering advisory roles. Mike Gross, Mining Advisor - 45+ years with experience as a mine operator, operations executive and exploration executive in the Americas including VP Mining for Hecla Mining. The Company has engaged Echelon Capital Markets as its financial advisor with respect to the Transaction. The Shafter Project The Shafter silver mine has all material permits in place with extensive surface infrastructure and underground workings including portal/decline and shaft access and a processing facility rated at approximately 1,500 tons per day. The project is located in west Texas and is fully accessible via paved highway from El Paso, Texas. Shafter has estimated measured and indicated resources of 10,803,000 ounces of silver and an inferred resource of 6,315,000 ounces of silver as summarized in Table 1. This estimate has been prepared for Silver Hammer Mining Inc. by RESPEC and is dated effective September 15, 2023 (the "Updated Mineral Resource Estimate") and an NI 43-101 Technical Report will be filed on SEDAR+ within 45 days of the date hereof. Table 1: Mineral Resource Table effective September 15, 2023 Estimated Resources* Tons oz/ton Ag Tonnes g/tonne Ag Contained Ag Ounces Measured 97,000 8.95 88,000 306.9 868,000 Indicated 1,055,000 9.42 957,000 323.0 9,935,000 Measured & Indicated 1,152,000 9.38 1,045,000 321.3 10,803,000 Inferred 823,000 7.67 747,000 263.0 6,315,000 *Updated Mineral Resource by RESPEC has effective date of September 15, 2023. The Updated Mineral Resource Estimate is reported by Mr. Michael S. Lindholm, Principal Geologist for RESPEC in short tons. The Updated Mineral Resource Estimate was prepared in accordance with Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum Definition Standards - For Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves adopted May 10, 2014, and in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 "Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects" ("NI43-101"). Mineral Resources are comprised of model blocks greater than or equal to the 4.2 oz Ag/ton cutoff. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Mineral Resources potentially amenable to underground mining methods are reported using a silver price of US$23.50/oz, a throughput rate of 800 tons/day, assumed metallurgical recoveries of 84% for Ag, mining costs of US$60/ton mined, processing costs of US$19.88/ton processed, refining costs of US$0.50/oz Ag produced, and general and administrative costs of US$6.94/ton processed. Silver commodity price selected based on analysis of the three-year running average at the end of August 2023. Rounding may result in apparent discrepancies between tons, grade, and contained metal content. The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by environmental permitting, legal title, taxation, socio-political, marketing or other relevant issues, however, none are apparent at this time. Shafter History: The Shafter district was first discovered in 1880 or 1881, and the Presidio Mining Company was formed in 1881. Silver was produced from the Presidio mine from 1883 to 1926, when the American Metal Co. acquired the Shafter property and continued production (American Metal Co. subsequently merged with Climax Molybdenum Company to form American Metal Climax, Inc. ("AMAX"). From 1883 to 1942, when the Presidio mine was closed, total recorded production was 2.307 million tons of ore containing 35.153 million ounces of silver at an average grade of 15.24oz Ag/ton. AMAX, Gold Fields Mining Corporation ("Gold Fields"), and Rio Grande Mining Company ("RGMC") successively held the Shafter property and conducted extensive exploration programs from 1926 to 1999. Gold Fields identified the northeastern, down-dip extension of the Shafter deposit, extending more than 5,000ft from the deepest development workings in the Presidio mine, through a systematic surface-drilling program. During the 1970s, Gold Fields constructed a 1,052ft deep shaft to access and explore the northeastern extension. Aurcana purchased RGMC and the Shafter property in July 2008 for US$25 million. RGMC is now a wholly owned subsidiary of Aurcana. Aurcana began exploration at Shafter in 2011 and has conducted geophysical surveying, drilling, mapping, and geochemical sampling since that time. Aurcana drilled 65 surface and 101 underground holes from 2011 through October 2013. A total of 1,694 drill holes are included in the resource database for the Shafter Project, of which 1,048 were drilled by AMAX, 403 were drilled by Gold Fields, 88 were drilled by RGMC prior to their acquisition by Aurcana, and 155 holes were drilled by RGMC since their acquisition by Aurcana. These holes include 435 surface core holes, 1,171 underground core holes, and 88 reverse circulation holes. An additional eleven underground core holes were drilled by Aurcana in late 2013 after the database was finalized for use, but before the current resource estimate was completed. Aurcana also drilled five exploration holes in 2017 outside of the current resource area. These 2013 and 2017 holes do not impact the current resource estimate and are not included within the current drill database. Aurcana reopened access into the Presidio mine on June 1, 2012, and production commenced on December 14, 2012, after spending approximately US$50 million including a portal/decline access, mill, and operations modifications. In conjunction with its underground operations, Aurcana began open-pit mining of lower-grade mineralization from the Mina Grande pit at the Presidio mine on April 23, 2012. Mining was discontinued after the plant commissioning and testing phase were complete, due mostly in part to lower silver prices reaching close to US$17/oz and rushed production start-up issues. The mine was put on care and maintenance in December 2013. An estimated US$160 million has been invested in the property since the discovery of the deposit in the late 1800's. Significant opportunity exists regionally noting the geological setting of the Shafter Silver Deposit is on the eastern margin of the Chihuahua Trough, which is host to several world-class CRD (Carbonate Replacement Deposits) including the Santa Eulalia Mine (Grupo Mexico), Cinco de Mayo project (MAG Silver), and the Plomosas Property, a polymetallic deposit (GR Silver Mining). Transaction Details In connection with the Purchase Agreement, the Company will first complete a reorganization (the "Reorganization") whereby all of the Company's outstanding shares will be acquired by a newly incorporated company, Silver Hammer Metals Corp. ("Newco"), and shareholders of the Company will receive common shares of Newco ("Newco Shares") in exchange for their Company shares. Newco will then acquire all of the outstanding shares in the capital of Rio Grande Mining Corporation ("Rio Grande"), a subsidiary of Aurcana that owns the assets, property, rights and undertakings of and relating to the Shafter Project (the "Shafter Acquisition"). The Reorganization is expected to be implemented by way of a court-approved plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) (the "Plan of Arrangement"), which will result in the Company becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of Newco. Under the Plan of Arrangement, each common share of the Company will be exchanged for one Newco Share and the convertible securities of the Company will become exercisable for securities of Newco on an equivalent basis. The Reorganization is subject to approval of the Supreme Court of British Columbia and the shareholders of Silver Hammer. On closing of the Transaction, in consideration for the shares of Rio Grande, Aurcana will receive a cash payment of US$800,000 (less certain exclusivity fees and prepaid expenses) and 23,000,000 Newco Shares at a deemed price of $0.25 per Newco Share. In addition, upon the completion of the next equity financing completed by Newco following the closing, Aurcana will receive an additional cash payment of US$375,000. Aurcana may also receive additional post-closing payments, payable in cash or shares, subject to the achievement of certain milestones within 48 months of closing of the Shafter Acquisition in the aggregate amount of up to US$3,000,0000, as follows: (a) up to US$1,000,000 will be payable in connection with the first public announcement of a new mineral resource estimate on the Shafter Project which includes measured and indicated mineral resources of at least 18 million ounces, (b) US$1,000,000 will be payable upon the Shafter Project entering commercial production, (c) US$500,000 will be payable if the spot price of silver is equal to or greater than US$30 per ounce for a period of 60 consecutive days, and (d) an additional US$500,000 will be payable if both (b) and (c), above, are met. Newco has also entered into an agreement with noteholders of Rio Grande to settle certain outstanding debt of Rio Grande in connection with the Shafter Acquisition (the "Debt Settlement"). Pursuant to the Debt Settlement, Newco will acquire all of the outstanding notes of Rio Grande in the aggregate principal amount of $6,517,662 (the "Rio Grande Notes") in consideration for (a) an aggregate of 4,000 debenture units of Newco, each consisting of one $1,000 principal amount secured convertible debenture of Newco, representing $4,000,000 in total (the "Debentures"), and 2,000 common share purchase warrants of Newco (the "Warrants"), (b) an aggregate of 8,000,000 units of Newco, each consisting of one Newco Share and one-half of a Warrant, and (c) additional securities of Newco on the same terms as the Concurrent Financing (as described below) in settlement of all interest accrued on the Rio Grande Notes from August 31, 2023 to closing. The Debentures will be convertible into Newco Shares at the conversion price of $0.25 per Newco Share and each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one Newco Share at the exercise price of $0.33 per Newco Share for a period of 24 months from closing. On closing of the Transaction, Newco and Aurcana will enter into an investor rights agreement (the "Investor Rights Agreement") pursuant to which Newco and Aurcana will agree to certain investor rights and restrictions relating to the Newco Shares to be issued to Aurcana pursuant to the Shafter Acquisition. Under the Investor Rights Agreement, Aurcana will have the right to nominate one member of the Board of Directors of Newco, increasing to two directors if at any time Aurcana holds greater than 35% of the outstanding Newco Shares. Aurcana will agree to certain standstill restrictions and to vote its Newco Shares in accordance with recommendations of management and for a period of 24 months. In addition, the Newco Shares issued to Aurcana will be subject to voluntary resale restrictions with 25% of the Newco Shares being locked-up for 4 months from closing, 25% of the Newco Shares being locked-up for 8 months and the remaining 50% of the Newco Shares being locked up for a period of 12 months. In connection with the Shafter Acquisition and pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Agreement, Silver Hammer will arrange a concurrent equity financing for minimum gross proceeds of CAN$3,000,000 (the "Concurrent Financing"). The terms of the Concurrent Financing will be disclosed in a subsequent news release once finalized. Completion of the Shafter Acquisition is subject to a number of conditions, including: (i) the receipt of all required approvals of the shareholders of Aurcana and the Company; (ii) the receipt of all necessary regulatory and third party consents, approvals and authorizations, including all necessary stock exchange approvals; (iii) the Completion of the Concurrent Financing for minimum gross proceeds of CAN$3,000,000, (iv) the completion of the Reorganization and the Debt Settlement, (v) conditional approval of the CSE for the listing of the Newco Shares, including the Newco Shares to be issued in connection with the Shafter Acquisition, the Reorganization and the Debt Settlement, and (vi) other standard closing conditions for a transaction of this nature. The Transaction is an arm's length transaction. Upon completion of the Transaction, the Reorganization and the Debt Settlement, Silver Hammer shareholders are expected to own approximately 63% of the Newco Shares on a non-diluted basis (excluding securities to be issued pursuant to the Concurrent Financing). Trading Halt Trading of the Company's common Shares has been halted as a result of the announcement of the proposed Transaction and the Company expects that trading will remain halted pending closing of the Transaction, subject to earlier resumption upon CSE acceptance of the proposed Transaction and the filing of required materials in accordance with the policies of the CSE, if and as applicable. Additional information concerning the proposed Shafter Acquisition, the Reorganization, the Debt Settlement, the Shafter Project, and Newco will be provided in the management proxy circular of the Company to be prepared and delivered to shareholders of Silver Hammer, which will be available in due course under the Company's SEDAR+ profile. Qualified Person All scientific and technical information in this press release has been prepared or reviewed and approved by Damir Cukor, P. Geo, an independent geological consultant of the Company, Linda Dufour, P.Eng, an independent metallurgical consultant of the Company, and Michael S. Lindholm, CPG of RESPEC. Each of Mr. Cukor, Ms. Dufour, and Mr. Lindholm are "qualified persons" for the purposes of NI 43-101. Mr. Cukor is the Qualified Person for all technical information in this news release, excluding the Updated Mineral Resource Estimate. About Silver Hammer Mining Corp. Silver Hammer Mining Corp. is a junior resource company focused on advancing past-producing high-grade silver projects in the United States. Silver Hammer controls 100% of the Silver Strand Mine in the Coeur d'Alene Mining District in Idaho, USA, as well both the Eliza Silver Project and the Silverton Silver Mine in Nevada and the Lacy Gold Project in British Columbia, Canada. Silver Hammer's primary focus is defining and developing silver deposits near past-producing mines that have not been adequately tested. The Company's portfolio also provides exposure to copper and gold discoveries. On Behalf of the Board of Silver Hammer Mining Corp. Peter A. Ball President & CEO, Director E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. For investor relations inquiries, contact: Peter A. Ball President & CEO 778.344.4653 E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Forward-Looking Information This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information in this press release includes, without limitation, statements relating to the completion of the Shafter Acquisition, the completion of the Concurrent Financing, the completion of the Debt Settlement and the Reorganization. Completion of the Shafter Acquisition, the Reorganization and the Debt Settlement are subject to a number of conditions, as described elsewhere in this news release. There can be no assurance that these transactions will be completed as proposed or at all. These statements are based upon assumptions that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, including risks regarding the mining industry, commodity prices, market conditions, general economic factors, management's ability to manage and to operate the business, and explore and develop the projects, of the resulting issuer, and the equity markets generally. Because of these risks and uncertainties and as a result of a variety of factors, the actual results, expectations, achievements or performance of each of the Company and Aurcana may differ materially from those anticipated and indicated by these forward-looking statements. Any number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements as well as future results. Although each of the Company believes that the expectations reflected in forward looking statements are reasonable, they can give no assurances that the expectations of any forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assume no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward-looking statements or otherwise. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - Goldshore Resources Inc. (TSXV: GSHR) (OTCQB: GSHRF) (FSE: 8X00) ("Goldshore" or the "Company"), is pleased to update the market with respect to results from the Company's summer exploration program at the Moss Gold Project in Northwest Ontario, Canada (the "Moss Gold Project"). Highlights: Goldshore field crews have identified five unique gold mineralization trends including two polymetallic Au-Cu trends across the Moss Gold Project through a combination of ionic leach soil sampling and property wide field mapping with a combined strike of over 35 kilometers. Recent rock sample results include: Moss Trend - 9.59 g/t Au and 60.6 g/t Ag plus 5.0 g/t Au, 96.2 g/t Ag, and 0.98% Cu from samples in diorite-hosted shears along strike from the current Mineral Resource 24.9 g/t Au and 9.99g/t Ag from samples of strongly altered dacite 200m south of the Moss Main zone, representing a new parallel zone. and plus and from samples in diorite-hosted shears along strike from the current Mineral Resource Kawa Trend - 33.7 g/t Au, 0.64% Zn and 75.3ppm Mo from sheared diorite/volcanic contacts within a new 6.5 kilometer long belt. Hamlin Trend - has been expanded to become an 8 kilometer long polymetallic Au-Ag-Cu-Mo belt with values including 0.73g/t Au, 0.14% Cu, 7.6 ppm Bi and 7.1 ppm Te. Coldstream Trend - has been widened to 800 meters through the discovery of parallel structures assaying 1.07 g/t Au and 0.98% Zn. 9.79 g/t Au from mafic-hosted carbonate shear veins at the "Benton" prospect, east of the East Coldstream deposit. and Vanguard Trend - 3.97% Cu, 1.73g/t Au and 19.1 g/t Ag plus 2.94 g/t Au in a 9 kilometer long belt of polymetallic VMS Cu-Zn-Au-Ag mineralization that is now found to be 120 meters wide through discovery of additional lenses. President and CEO Brett Richards stated: "We have previously stated our confidence to the market that the Moss Project of c.183Mt containing an inferred resource of 6M oz Au at 1.02g/t (with 55% of the deposit hosting a shear domain at 1.84 g/t)1 could be the start to uncovering multiple deposits of gold mineralization, and polymetallic mineralization on our land package. The targets that we have identified and now sampled need to be drill tested to prove their voracity, and to provide a clearer picture on how best to prioritize the many targets we have previously highlighted to the market. The 30km trend of mineralization at Moss confirms the exciting potential of identifying and growing a large, multi-generational mining camp in the Shebandowan Greenstone belt." Field Program Update Goldshore embarked on a property wide field reconnaissance program in June 2022 - in the background to drilling - exploring the numerous unexplained geophysical anomalies and under explored gold and base metal showings. This program accelerated over the last several months. The field crews have compiled a systematic interpretation of the project geology, structure, alteration, and mineralization across the Project. Through this investigation and in combination with a substantial ionic soil leach program, the historic gold showings and newly discovered mineralization have resolved to be part of five distinct mineralized trends, including two polymetallic trends. Figure 1: Selective results from the ongoing Moss Gold Project field program The Moss Trend has been confirmed over an 8-kilometer strike containing the existing resource. The mineralization is dominantly hosted in anastomosing shears through an extensive altered diorite package. This zone is consistent with a belt of magnetic low bodies (altered intrusions) adjacent to folded magnetic highs (magnetic-bearing wall rocks) that present a belt with a high competency and redox contrast. Recent work has discovered elevated copper and silver mineralization towards the southwestern extents with recent rock samples returning values including 9.59 g/t Au and 60.6 g/t Ag, 5.0 g/t Au plus 96.2 g/t Ag, and 0.98% Cu. Samples of strongly altered dacite 200m south of the Moss Main zone returned assays of 24.9 g/t Au and 9.99g/t Ag, representing a new parallel zone. The field results confirm the interpretation from the step out and deep drilling at the Moss Gold Project that the mineralized corridor is at least 1,000 meters wide. The Kawa Trend lies approximately 2 kilometers south of, and parallel to, the Moss Trend over a 6.5-kilometer strike length with a confirmed width of 550m. It has a similar magnetic character as the Moss Trend and mapping has shown that mineralization is hosted within and along a sheared diorite/volcanic contact. We therefore expect the Kawa Trend to have the same potential as the Moss Trend. Partial assays results have been received for this area with values including 33.7g/t Au. The known Hamlin Trend has been extended by 4 kilometers to the east to form an 8-kilometer-long belt of polymetallic Au-Ag-Cu-Mo mineralization with a confirmed width from 400 to 700 meters. Recent expanded ICP analysis indicate additional Bi and Te potential. Partial assays results have been received for this area with values including 0.73g/t Au, 0.14% Cu, 7.6 ppm Bi and 7.1 ppm Te. The Coldstream Trend containing the East Coldstream deposit has a confirmed strike of 3.5 kilometers hosted by late shearing within altered mafic volcanics and includes the historic North Coldstream Cu-Co mine. Recent exploration has discovered parallel mineralized shears within the northern intermediate volcanics expanding the width potential of the mineralization with rock sample assays returning values including 1.07 g/t Au and 0.98% Zn. The Vanguard Trend has an established 9-kilometer strike length of polymetallic VMS Cu-Zn-Au-Ag mineralization linking with the Iris Lake Au prospect through a series of untested geophysical conductors. Results from the recent exploration have discovered additional parallel gold bearing shears north of the main Vanguard showing and ignored by much of the historical exploration giving it width of 120 meters. Partial assays results have been received for this area with values including 3.97% Cu, 1.73g/t Au and 19.1 g/t Ag and 2.94 g/t Au. Additional poorly understood prospects defined by historical prospecting and known to host Cu-Au mineralization have been confirmed toward the east, west, and south of the East Coldstream deposit with assay results including 9.79 g/t Au. Future exploration programs will focus on better understanding this mineralization and its potential. Pete Flindell, VP Exploration for Goldshore, said "Goldshore's geologists have done an excellent job of mapping and sampling through challenging terrain to uncover the additional mineralized potential of the Moss Gold Project. This includes ionic leach soil sampling across muskeg to understand the character of concealed structural targets. These results speak to district-scale potential of the Moss Gold Project." Corporate Announcement Heather Laxton has resigned from the Goldshore board of directors with immediate effect. Heather was a nominee of Wesdome Gold Mines Ltd. and served on the Board since the listing of the Company. Qualified Persons Peter Flindell, P.Geo., MAusIMM, MAIG, Vice President - Exploration of the Company, a qualified person under NI 43-101 has approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release. About Goldshore Goldshore is an emerging junior gold development company, and owns 100% of the Moss Gold Project located in Ontario. Wesdome is currently a large shareholder of Goldshore with an approximate 19% equity position in the Company. Well-financed and supported by an industry-leading management group, board of directors and advisory board, Goldshore is positioned to advance the Moss Gold Project through the next stages of exploration and development. Peter Flindell, P.Geo., MAusIMM, MAIG, Vice President - Exploration of the Company, a qualified person under NI 43-101 has approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release. 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 release. For More Information - Please Contact: Brett A. Richards President, Chief Executive Officer and Director Goldshore Resources Inc. P. +1 604 288 4416 M. +1 905 449 1500 E. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. W. www.goldshoreresources.com Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements." Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements, or developments to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, among others, statements relating to expectations regarding the exploration and development of the Moss Gold Project, the release of an updated mineral resource estimate and preliminary economic assessment, and other statements that are not historical facts. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors and risks include, among others: the Company may require additional financing from time to time in order to continue its operations which may not be available when needed or on acceptable terms and conditions acceptable; compliance with extensive government regulation; domestic and foreign laws and regulations could adversely affect the Company's business and results of operations; the stock markets have experienced volatility that often has been unrelated to the performance of companies and these fluctuations may adversely affect the price of the Company's securities, regardless of its operating performance; and the impact of COVID-19. The forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the expectations of the Company as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. 1 NI 43-101 Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate for the Moss Lake Project, Ontario, Canada, dated effective May 5, 2023. The Ukrainian and Polish sides are actively working on technical issues regarding the regulation of Ukrainian grain exports to Poland, in particular, on licensing Ukrainian exports in agreement with the country of destination and on their transit through Poland, the Ukrainian Grain Association (UGA) has reported. According to the report, UGA is confident that Ukraine and Poland will calmly come to an agreement on grain exports and agree on mechanisms for control and transit of grain. "No loud political statements have an impact on the resolution of technical issues by working groups, including with the participation of the European Commission. And emotional political statements should be considered as a given during the election process and the interest of politicians in attracting the attention of the voter," the press service of the UGA quoted the words President of the association Mykola Horbachev. The business association recalled that recently the agricultural ministers of Ukraine and Poland Mykola Solsky and Robert Telus discussed the mechanism proposed by Ukraine for licensing the export of four types of products (wheat, rapeseed, corn and sunflower) to neighboring EU countries, agreed with the European Commission. The Polish minister positively assessed the proposed licensing mechanism for Ukrainian exports, under which Poland and other neighboring countries will have the opportunity to address the needs of their markets. For example, the export of grain to Poland will be possible if the Polish government agrees to the import of specific grain of a certain volume to Poland, the UGA said. The association said that Poland took a week to consider the Ukrainian proposal, and recalled Telus' words that it was necessary to calm the situation and develop mechanisms that would effectively ensure the transit of Ukrainian grain to those regions where it is needed. Further Significant Lithium Mineral Resource Expansion at The Basin Project in Arizona BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Bradda Head Lithium Ltd (AIM:BHL) (TSX-V:BHLI) (OTCQB:BHLIF), the North America-focused lithium development group, is pleased to announce an updated Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") at the Company's Basin Project, Arizona (see Table 1 below). The updated MRE was prepared in accordance with Canadian National Instrument 43-101 (Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects) ("NI-43-101"). As per the Gross Overriding Royalty Agreement ("Royalty Agreement") with the Lithium Royalty Company ("LRC"), this new contained LCE Tonnage which is well over the contracted threshold of 1Mt, has enabled the Company to trigger the payment of US$2.5 million from LRC. The Company has requested this payment be made. Highlights: Based on a further 2,355.20m of sonic drilling, completed in 2023, Bradda Head has added 729 kt of Lithium Carbonate Equivalent ("LCE") to the Inferred Mineral Resource, for an updated total Inferred LCE content of 1.0 Mt. The total new Mineral Resource now comprises 17.0 million tonnes in the Indicated category at 940 ppm carrying 85kt LCE and 210 million tonnes in the Inferred category at 900 ppm, carrying 1,000 kt LCE As per the Royalty Agreement, BHL has formally requested payment of US $2.5 million from LRC; documentation has been submitted per verification by SRK Consulting (UK) Ltd ("SRK"). The continued step out drilling success at Basin East Extension and Basin North has increased the Company's confidence levels in achieving the next milestone of 2.5Mt of LCE in situ, that enables BHL to receive a further US$3.0 million payment from the Royalty Agreement. SRK applied a new cut off grade of 550ppm Li to report Mineral Resources and demonstrate reasonable prospects of eventual economic extraction ("RPEEE"). This cut off grade is higher than the cut-off grade used to report the previous Mineral Resource (300 ppm; effective 13 th October 2022). This higher cut off grade more accurately reflects the recognised metallurgical processing input parameters and takes into account operating costs presented in the public domain by more advanced peer group projects. October 2022). This higher cut off grade more accurately reflects the recognised metallurgical processing input parameters and takes into account operating costs presented in the public domain by more advanced peer group projects. The average in situ grade of the Inferred Basin East Mineral Resource has increased from 694 to 900 ppm Li, a 30% increase. The results of the 2023 drilling programme demonstrate extensive lateral continuity of the Basin East clay package as well as impressive consistency in the stratigraphic position and grade profile of a high-grade clay-rich sub-unit, over an approximately 2.7 x1.8 km area. It's important to note that the Upper Clay Unit includes a continuous High-Grade layer which has an average grade of some 1,300 ppm Li, and is on average 15m thick. This higher-grade portion of the Upper Clay Unit is strategic as it could potentially form part of a phased mining processing operation and would clearly enhance early stages of mining and overall project economics. Mineralisation is open to the north of the MRE model in the Basin East and Basin North license blocks, and geological mapping, surface Li samples. Geological mapping and geophysical surveys indicate that similar clay strata may also be present across the majority of the Basin West license block. The previous drilled area only covered 1.4km 2 of Bradda's total 41km 2 of sedimentary claims in Basin and Wikieup. The 2023 resource expansion drill programme has increased this drilled area to 2.5km 2 or 14% of BHL's claims in the Basin district only (see map https://www.braddaheadltd.com/media/image-library/ ). The next phase of drilling is planned for early 2024 at Basin North under an existing notice of intent ("NOI") permit. Bradda is also permitting an 80-hole programme at BWE and BW with the BLM (Bureau of Land Management) where it expects significant resource growth stemming from geological work done to date by our geologists. BW and BWE cover an 11km 2 area, which is considerably larger than the BE (1.5km 2 ), BEE (2.3km 2 ) and BN (2.3km 2 ). of of sedimentary claims in Basin and Wikieup. The 2023 resource expansion drill programme has increased this drilled area to claims in the Basin district only (see map ). The next phase of drilling is planned for early 2024 at Basin North under an existing notice of intent ("NOI") permit. Bradda is also permitting an 80-hole programme at BWE and BW with the BLM (Bureau of Land Management) where it expects significant resource growth stemming from geological work done to date by our geologists. BW and BWE cover an 11km area, which is considerably larger than the BE (1.5km ), BEE (2.3km ) and BN (2.3km ). SRK were selected to complete the Mineral Resource Update analysis and applied a stringent approach to both the in-situ density measurement and the cut off grade utilised. A lower in situ density and higher cut off grade than previously reported resulted in a more robust estimate. A significant and pragmatic building block to develop the on-going test-work plan. Table 2 below highlights the 'grade vs. tonnage' relationship with the orebody and reflects a significant amount of flexibility in potential open pit mining scenarios The full study completed by SRK will be available on the Company's website and SEDAR before November 10, 2023. Ian Stalker, Chairman of Bradda Head, commented: "The increase in LCE at Basin East Extension and into Basin North highlights the impressive potential that we have always believed is inherent at the Basin Project. The total drilled area at Basin East/Basin East Extension/Basin North still only covers 2.5km2 of our 41km2 license area at Basin and Wikieup. "We believe that 2024 is going to be another exciting year of resource growth for Bradda Head, hopefully in both projects areas - San Domingo Pegmatites and the Basin Clays. We remain well funded, even more so following the royalty payment. More drilling is already planned at Basin North and Basin West upon receipt of the Environmental Assessment ("EA") from the BLM in H2 2024. The area we are permitting is over 11km2, which is considerably larger than BE, BEE, and BN combined (c.6km2). BHL is excellently placed to take full advantage of the near-term resource growth potential at our sedimentary lithium assets in Arizona. The BHL team on site has done a remarkable job and showed persistence in delineating the Basin Project to date. "We have a compelling 12 months ahead with what we believe are a number of material catalysts and we look forward to providing further updates in 2023, including our ongoing work at our San Domingo Pegmatite district as well as in 2024 in what we believe is going to be another exciting year of resource growth for Bradda both at San Domingo and Basin." Mineral Resource Estimation The updated 2023 Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") at Basin authored by SRK Consulting (UK) Ltd ("SRK"), is reported in accordance with the terminology and definitions given in the JORC Code (2012) and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum guidelines, comprises: an Indicated Mineral Resource of 17 Mt at an average grade of 940 ppm Li and 3.4% K for a total of 85 kt LCE and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 210 Mt at an average grade of 900 ppm Li and 2.8% K for a total of 1.0 Mt LCE. The statement, presented in Table 1, was prepared by Mr. Martin Pittuck of SRK, who is considered a Qualified Person for this style of mineralisation. SRK has applied basic technical and economic assumptions for open pit mining (mining and selling costs, mining recovery and dilution, pit slope angles) and processing factors (Li recovery, processing costs), to determine which portion of the block model has reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction as required by the JORC Code. To achieve this, the Mineral Resource has been subject to a pit optimisation study and cut-off grade analysis. The 2023 Q3 Mineral Resource follows the completion of a 14 hole 2,355.2m sonic drilling programme which was completed in Q2 2023. Drilling covers double the area compared with the previous estimate giving new relatively wide spaced intersections in Basin East Extension and the southern part of Basin North. 2023 Mineral Resource Statement Table 1: Mineral Resource Statement for Basin East, Basin East Extension and Basin North effective 1 September 2023. Classification Domain Tonnes Mean Grade Contained Metal Mt Li (ppm) K (%) LCE (kt) K (kt) Indicated Upper Clay 11 720 3.5 42 380 Upper Clay HG 6 1350 3.2 43 190 Lower Clay - - - - - SubTotal 17 940 3.4 85 570 Inferred Upper Clay 143 790 2.7 600 3,800 Upper Clay HG 48 1290 3.1 330 1,500 Lower Clay 19 690 2.8 70 530 SubTotal 210 900 2.8 1,000 5,800 o Mineral Resource statement has an effective date of 1 September 2023. o The Mineral Resource is reported using a cut-off grade of 550 ppm Li and is constrained to an optimised open pit shell, which was generated using the following assumptions: lithium carbonate metal prices of 22,000 USD/tLCE; State of Arizona royalty (selling cost) of 6%; operating costs of 40 USD/ tore; Li recovery of 72%; mining dilution and recovery of 0% and 100%; and pit slope angle of 45. o Tonnages are reported in metric units. o Rounding as required by reporting guidelines may result in apparent summation differences between tonnes, grade and contained metal content which are not considered material. o Conversion factor of Li metal to lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) = 5.323 o The figures above are reported on a gross basis given Bradda's 100% interest in the property High Grade Over one third of the contained LCE is in a High-Grade zone within the Upper Clay zone with an average grade of some 1,300 ppm Li. This High-Grade zone gives Bradda Head further optionality and could have important economic implications for a potential future mining operation. The shallow nature of the High-Grade zone, which crops out in Basin East, would likely result in a low strip ratio, enabling High-Grade ore to be scheduled early in a possible mine plan as it sits in the upper part of the deposit. Exploration Potential The Upper Clay zone and Higher-Grade zone show remarkable extent and continuity throughout the drilled parts of the Basin Project and remain open to the north, indicating significant exploration potential in the Basin North license. Geological mapping, surface samples assayed for lithium, and geophysical (Ground Penetrating Radar) survey work also indicate similar clay layers are likely present throughout the majority of the Basin West license area. As such, with further wide-spaced drilling Bradda Head sees excellent potential to increase the resource base substantially with the goal of reaching and exceeding 2.5MT LCE. For the prospective parts of Basin East, Basin West, Basin West Extension and Basin North claims, SRK has determined a JORC compliant Exploration Target of 250 to 830 Mt of additional material grading between 750 to 900 ppm Li. This is equivalent to a range of between 1 to 4 Mt contained LCE. This Exploration Target is based on an assessment of the updated Mineral Resource LCE per unit area, an estimated range of likely grades based on the MRE and an assessment of the extent of mapped clay and hangingwall lithologies, together with surface sample Li grades, in the undrilled parts of the Basin Project licence areas. See map (https://www.braddaheadltd.com/media). Related Tables The following table is for information and context, comparing Q4 2022, Q1 2022 and 2018 totals in relation to the areas on which work had been conducted at each time. Comparison of updated 2023 to Q4 2022 MRE to Q1 2022 MRE to 2018 MRE: 2023 model sensitivity of LCE to cut-off grade: Table 2: Grade-Tonnage sensitivity* to cut-off grade Li cut-off grade (ppm) Indicated Inferred Tonnage above cut-off Average grade above cut-off Contained metal above cut-off Tonnage above cut-off Average grade above cut-off Contained metal above cut-off Mt Li (ppm) LCE (kt) Mt Li (ppm) LCE (kt) 650 15 990 77 190 910 940 750 11 1100 61 140 990 750 850 8 1220 49 80 1120 500 1000 6 1290 42 50 1270 340 *This table does not constitute a Mineral Resource, as defined by the JORC Code, but is an expression of the sensitivity of the average grade and contained tonnage of LCE to a selection of different Li cut-off grades Other Comments Remarkably, the resource was developed in 4 separate programs over the span of 5 years, drilling 62 holes for a total of 6,730 meters, extremely high value for share holders, resulting in over 1.0MT of LCE. For further information please visit the Company's website: www.braddaheadltd.com This announcement contains inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) No. 596/2014, as it forms part of UK Domestic Law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018. Upon the publication of this announcement, this inside information is now considered to be in the public domain. Qualified Person SRK The Mineral Resource statement has been authored by Mr. Martin Pittuck, CEng, MIMMM, FGS who works for SRK Consulting (UK) Ltd, an independent mining consultancy. Mr. Pittuck has over 25 years' experience undertaking and reviewing Mineral Resource Estimates and has worked on lithium clay estimates for over 5 years. Mr. Pittuck consents to the inclusion of the technical information in this release and context in which it appears. Qualified Person (BHL) Joey Wilkins, B.Sc., P.Geo., is Head of North America at BHL and the Qualified Person who reviewed and approved the technical disclosures in this news release. Mr. Wilkins is a graduate of the University of Arizona with a B.Sc. in Geology with more than 37 years of experience in mineral exploration and is a qualified person under the AIM Rules and a Qualified Person as defined under NI-43-101. Mr. Wilkins consents to the inclusion of the technical information in this release and context in which it appears. Reference is made to the report entitled "Independent Technical Report On The Basin And Wikieup Lithium Clay Projects, Arizona, USA" (the Report) dated October 18 2022 with an effective date of June 10 2022. The Report was prepared by Martin Pittuck, CEng, MIMMM, FGS, and Kirsty Reynolds MSci, PhD, FGS and reviewed by Nick Fox MSc, ACA, MIMMM. The Report is available for review on SEDARplus (https://www.sedarplus.ca) and the Company's website www.braddaheadltd.com. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT CONTAINS INSIDE INFORMATION FOR THE PURPOSES OF THE MARKET ABUSE REGULATION (EU No. 596/2014) AS IT FORMS PART OF UK DOMESTIC LAW BY VIRTUE OF THE EUROPEAN UNION (WITHDRAWAL) ACT 2018. UPON THE PUBLICATION OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT VIA A REGULATORY INFORMATION SERVICE, THIS INSIDE INFORMATION IS NOW CONSIDERED TO BE IN THE PUBLIC DOMAIN AND SUCH PERSONS SHALL THEREFORE CEASE TO BE IN POSSESSION OF INSIDE INFORMATION. ENDS Contact: Bradda Head Lithium Limited +44 (0) 1624 639 396 Ian Stalker, Executive Chairman Denham Eke, Finance Director Beaumont Cornish (Nomad) James Biddle/Roland Cornish +44 20 7628 3396 Panmure Gordon (Joint Broker) +44 20 7886 2500 John Prior / Hugh Rich Shard Capital (Joint Broker) +44 207 186 9927 Damon Heath / Isabella Pierre Red Cloud (North American Broker) +1 416 803 3562 Joe Fars Tavistock (PR) + 44 20 7920 3150 Nick Elwes / Adam Baynes This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. About Bradda Head Lithium Ltd. Bradda Head Lithium Ltd. is a North America-focused lithium development group. The Company currently has interests in a variety of projects, the most advanced of which are in Central and Western Arizona: The Basin Project (Basin East Project, and the Basin West Project) and the Wikieup Project. The Basin East Project has an Indicated Mineral Resource of 17 Mt at an average grade of 940 ppm Li and 3.4% K for a total of 85 kt LCE and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 210 Mt at an average grade of 900 ppm Li and 2.8% K (potassium) for a total of 1.0 Mt LCE. In the rest of the Basin Project SRK has determined an Exploration Target of 250 to 830 Mt of material grading between 750 to 900 ppm Li, which is equivalent to a range of between 1 to 4 Mt contained LCE. The Group intends to continue to develop its three phase one projects in Arizona, whilst endeavouring to unlock value at its other prospective pegmatite and brine assets in Arizona, Nevada, and Pennsylvania. All of Bradda Head's licences are held on a 100% equity basis and are in close proximity to the required infrastructure. Bradda Head is quoted on the AIM of the London Stock Exchange with the ticker of BHL, on the TSX Venture Exchange with a ticker of BHLI, and on the US OTCQB market with a ticker of BHLIF. Technical Glossary kt Thousand tonnes ppm Parts per million Exploration Target An estimate of the exploration potential of a mineral deposit in a defined geological setting where the statement or estimate, quoted as a range of tonnes and a range of grade (or quality), relates to mineralisation for which there has been insufficient exploration to estimate a Mineral Resource. Inferred Mineral Resource That part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity and grade (or quality) are estimated on the basis of limited geological evidence and sampling. Geological evidence is sufficient to imply but not verify geological grade (or quality) continuity. It is based on exploration, sampling and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes. An Inferred Mineral Resource has a lower level of confidence than that applying to an Indicated Mineral Resource and must not be converted to an Ore Reserve. It is reasonably expected that the majority of Inferred Mineral Resources could be upgraded to Indicated Mineral Resources with continued exploration. Indicated Mineral Resource That part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity, grade (or quality), densities, shape and physical characteristics are estimated with sufficient confidence to allow the application of Modifying Factors in sufficient detail to support mine planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. Geological evidence is derived from adequately detailed and reliable exploration, sampling and testing gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes, and is sufficient to assume geological and grade (or quality) continuity between points of observation where data and samples are gathered. Forward-Looking Statements Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This News Release includes certain "forward-looking statements" which 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 expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as "believes", "anticipates", "intends to", "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, following: The Company's objectives, goals or future plans. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to: failure to identify mineral resources; failure to convert estimated mineral resources to reserves; delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required regulatory, governmental, environmental or other project approvals; political risks; future operating and capital costs, timelines, permit timelines, the market and future price of and demand for lithium, and the ongoing ability to work cooperatively with stakeholders, including the local levels of government; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future; changes in equity markets, inflation, changes in exchange rates, fluctuations in commodity prices; delays in the development of projects, capital and operating costs varying significantly from estimates; an inability to predict and counteract the effects of COVID-19 on the business of the Company, including but not limited to the effects of COVID-19 on the price of commodities, capital market conditions, restriction on labour and international travel and supply chains; and the other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry, and those risks set out in the Company's public documents filed on SEDARplus. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies 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. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.rns.com. VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 27, 2023 / Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd. (TSX:NDM) (NYSE American:NAK) ("Northern Dynasty" or the "Company" or "NDM") reports that its 100%-owned U.S.-based subsidiary Pebble Limited Partnership ("Pebble Partnership" or "PLP") has been informed that the Alaska District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ("USACE") was granted a fifth extension of the deadline to communicate the plan on how the District plans to move forward with its reconsideration of the administrative record after remand. The Division Commander approved the request for the 60-day extension and the revised deadline is now November 27, 2023. As reported by the Company on May 1, 2023, in a news release entitled "US Army Corps Remand highlights serious flaws in the permitting decision", the USACE Pacific Ocean Division had given the Alaska District 45 days to review the appeal decision and notify the parties how it plans to proceed in light of the EPA's Final Determination. The original deadline expired on Friday, June 9, 2023, with subsequent extensions to June 23, June 29, July 28, and September 26, 2023 prior to this most recent extension. The news release is available at the following link: Click Here. In addition, the U.S. Government has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to extend the filing deadline for their brief, related to the State of Alaska's action opposing the EPA's Final Determination, until early November. As a result, we now anticipate that the Supreme Court will decide if it will hear the State of Alaska's case by year end. About Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd. Northern Dynasty is a mineral exploration and development company based in Vancouver, Canada. Northern Dynasty's principal asset, owned through its wholly owned Alaska-based U.S. subsidiary, Pebble Limited Partnership, is a 100% interest in a contiguous block of 1,840 mineral claims in Southwest Alaska, including the Pebble deposit, located 200 miles from Anchorage and 125 miles from Bristol Bay. The Pebble Partnership is the proponent of the Pebble Project. For further details on Northern Dynasty and the Pebble Project, please visit the Company's website at www.northerndynastyminerals.com or contact Investor services at (604) 684-6365 or within North America at 1- 800-667-2114. Review public filings, which include forward looking information cautionary language and risk factor disclosure regarding the Company and the Pebble Project in Canada at www.sedar.com and the US at www.sec.gov. Ronald W. Thiessen President & CEO U.S. Media Contact: Dan Gagnier, Gagnier Communications (646) 569-5897 Forward Looking Information and other Cautionary Factors This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements" under the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and under applicable provisions of Canadian provincial securities laws. All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, which address permitting, development and production for the Pebble Project are forward-looking statements. These include statements regarding: (i) the outcome of the USACE remand and the ability to successfully appeal the negative Record of Decision ("ROD") and secure the issuance of a positive ROD by the USACE, (ii) the political and public support for the permitting process, (iii) the ability of the Pebble Project to ultimately secure all required federal and state permits, (iv) if permitting is ultimately secured, the ability to demonstrate that the Pebble Project is commercially viable and (v) the EPA's Final Determination process under the Clean Water Act and the impact of this process on the ability of the Pebble Partnership to develop the Pebble Project, including the status and outcome of the State of Alaska's action against the EPA and its Final Determination filed with the U.S. Supreme Court. Although NDM believes the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements should not be in any way be construed as guarantees that the Pebble Project will secure all required government and environmental permits or regarding the ability of NDM to develop the Pebble Projects in light of the EPA's final Determination. Assumptions used by NDM to develop forward-looking statements include the following assumptions: (i) the Pebble Project will ultimately obtain all required environmental and other permits and all land use and other licenses and (ii) any action taken by the EPA in connection with the Proposed Determination will ultimately not be successful in restricting or prohibiting development of the Pebble Project. NDM is also subject to the specific risks inherent in the mining business as well as general economic and business conditions. Investors should also consider the risk factors identified in the Company's Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2022, as filed on SEDAR plus and included in the Company's annual report on Form 40-F filed by the Company with the SEC on EDGAR, and the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2022, and six months ended June 30, 2022, each as filed on SEDAR plus and EDGAR, for a discussion of the risks that may impact our forward-looking statements. The National Environment Policy Act Environmental Impact Statement process requires a comprehensive "alternatives assessment" be undertaken to consider a broad range of development alternatives, the final project design and operating parameters for the Pebble Project and associated infrastructure may vary significantly from that currently contemplated. As a result, the Company will continue to consider various development options and no final project design has been selected at this time. For more information on the Company, Investors should review the Company's filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov and its home jurisdiction filings that are available at www.sedarplus.ca VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / November 16, 2021 / Resolve Ventures Inc. ("Resolve" or the "Company") ( TSXV:RSV ) is pleased to announce that it will be changing its name from "Resolve Ventures Inc." to "Atomic Minerals Corporation." to better reflect the new direction of the Company in entering... Read More Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday offered an "unreserved" apology in parliament after the legislature publicly -- if unwittingly -- celebrated a Ukrainian World War II veteran who'd fought alongside the Nazis. The incident last week during a visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has shaken Canada, prompted the speaker of parliament to step down and triggered diplomatic turmoil. "I would like to present unreserved apologies for what took place on Friday and to President Zelensky and the Ukrainian delegation for the position they were put in, for all of us who were present," Trudeau told lawmakers. "To have unknowingly recognized this individual was a terrible mistake and a violation of the memory of those who suffered grievously at the hands of the Nazi regime." The Canadian leader was referring to an embarrassing incident that marred a visit by Zelensky last week, sparking an uproar that led to the resignation of the speaker on Tuesday. The Ukrainian president was in Canada as part of a tour to bolster Western support for his country's struggle against Russian invasion. Zelensky was in the chamber as guest of honor when the speaker, Anthony Rota, name-checked the elderly veteran as a World War II hero, prompting a standing ovation. It emerged afterward that the veteran had served in a Nazi-linked military unit. Trudeau said earlier Wednesday that the mistake "deeply embarrassed Parliament, and Canada," and he was apologizing in front of all Canadians and the Jewish people around the world. "It was a horrendous violation of the memory of the millions of people who died in the Holocaust," Trudeau said. Rota stepped down, saying he had "profound regret for my error" and the pain he caused to Jewish communities in Canada and elsewhere. Trudeau's government has been under intense pressure over the affair, which Conservative opposition leader Pierre Poilievre described as the "biggest single diplomatic embarrassment" in Canada's history. At the high-profile event for Zelensky, Rota had hailed Yaroslav Hunka as "a Ukrainian-Canadian war veteran from the Second World War who fought for Ukrainian independence against the Russians" and "a Ukrainian hero and a Canadian hero." Hunka served in the 14th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS, "a Nazi military unit whose crimes against humanity during the Holocaust are well-documented," according to the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center. The Jewish advocacy group called the incident "shocking" and "incredibly disturbing." Russia quickly jumped on the issue, saying Canada now had to "bring to justice" the 98-year-old man. Moscow has for years tried to paint the pro-Western Ukrainian government led by Zelensky -- who is Jewish -- as neo-Nazi and has used the messaging intensively on its state-controled media to justify the invasion of Ukraine to the Russian people. Russia's ambassador to Canada, Oleg Stepanov, blasted the "outrageous commemoration" and called on Trudeau to apologize to Moscow for Hunka and his unit's "multiple war crimes" against the Russian people. Canada has the second largest Ukrainian diaspora in the world after Russia. Trudeau said "I also want to reiterate how deeply sorry Canada is for the situation this put President Zelensky and the Ukrainian delegation," and he signaled that Ottawa had already contacted Kyiv and Zelensky to apologize. "It is extremely troubling to think that this egregious error is being politicized by Russia and its supporters to provide false propaganda about what Ukraine is fighting for." An Austrian laboratory will analyze more human remains that could belong to some of the 43 Mexican students whose disappearance nine years ago triggered international condemnation, the government said Wednesday. The announcement came a day after relatives of the missing joined thousands of protesters in Mexico City demanding justice on the anniversary of one of the country's worst human rights atrocities. So far, the remains of only three of the victims have been identified by experts at the University of Innsbruck. "We have other remains pending identification," Alejandro Encinas, a deputy minister responsible for human rights, said at a news conference. Two sets of remains, out of more than 120 discovered, were waiting to undergo genetic analysis at the Innsbruck laboratory, said Encinas, who heads a government-appointed truth commission. Experts from the Mexican attorney general's office would also carry out their own analysis of additional remains, he said. According to Encinas, 132 suspects have been detained in connection with the case. They include 41 members of Guerreros Unidos drug cartel, 71 police officers, a former attorney general, 14 members of the army and five other officials. The students from a teacher training college had commandeered buses in the southern state of Guerrero to travel to a demonstration in Mexico City before they went missing. Investigators believe that they were kidnapped by a drug cartel in collusion with corrupt police. Interceptions of cartel communications by the US Drug Enforcement Administration indicate the students were mistaken for members of a rival cartel and that the buses they took contained drugs, weapons or money, Encinas said. Last year, the commission branded the atrocity a "state crime" and said that the military shared responsibility, either directly or through negligence. Independent experts and relatives have accused the government of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, known by his initials AMLO, of withholding vital information. "We regret that AMLO's response is to stand with (the army) and not with truth and justice," one of the parents, Emiliano Navarrete, said at Tuesday's protest. On 28 September 2009, when opponents gathered peacefully in the stadium of Guineas capital Conakry to demonstrate against the presidential candidacy of Captain Moussa Dadis Camara, the security forces brutally repressed the gathering. Among other abuses, 156 people were killed, 109 women were raped and sexually assaulted. The trial for these crimes did not start in Guinea until 13 years later, on 28 September 2022, involving former military and government officials of the then junta, the National Council for Democracy and Development (CNDD). The decision to hold the trial was taken in July 2022, two months before it was due to begin, by Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, the country's new strongman who overthrew President Alpha Conde in a coup d'etat on 5 September 2021. This trial, which many doubted would ever take place since it had been constantly postponed under the former presidency, constitutes a unique moment in the history of this West African country marked by decades of massive human rights violations committed with total impunity. Eleven defendants For a year now, 11 defendants have been on trial before the Dixinn criminal court. Of the 13 people referred by the pool of investigating judges dedicated to this case, one has died (General Mamadouba Tota Camara, number 2 in the CNDD), while another failed to appear (gendarme Alpha Amadou Balde). The defendants appearing before the criminal court of three independent judges are: the head of the former junta, Captain Moussa Dadis Camara; its Minister for Presidential Security Captain Claude Pivi; Minister for Special Services Major Moussa Tiegboro Camara; Captain Moussa Dadis Camara's aide-de-camp Lieutenant Aboubakar SidikiDiakite (known as Toumba); Lieutenant Aboubakar Sidiki Diakite's deputy, Second Lieutenant Marcel Guilavogui ; Minister of Health Colonel Abdoulaye Cherif Diaby; one of Commander Moussa Tiegboro Camara's deputies, Lieutenant Blaise Guemou; Lieutenant Aboubakar Sidiki Diakite's bodyguard, Warrant Officer Cece Raphael Haba; one of the managers of Camp Koundara, Sergeant Paul Mansa Guilavogui (known as Sergeant Paul); and gendarmes Mamadou Aliou Keita and Ibrahima Camara (known as Kalonzo). All are accused of having ordered or participated in the massacre, and are being prosecuted under normal law for offences including murder, rape and sexual violence, since crimes against humanity did not exist in Guinean law at the time of the events. Brand new court A committee tasked with preparing the 28 September 2009 massacre trial met around ten times between 2018 and 2022 within the Guinean Ministry of Justice. It began work on the main organisational aspects: the venue, security, communication, funding and preparation. The committees work paid off, enabling the trial to get underway within two months of the authorities giving a green light. This trial is being held in a brand new building, whose construction was launched by President Alpha Conde. The premises, which belong to the Ministry of Justice and are located just a few metres from the Conakry Court of Appeal, provide good material conditions. The trial room has been equipped with seats, a podium, air conditioning, microphones and a box for the defendants, and is large enough to accommodate the public. Serious concerns were expressed about security. Wouldn't the victims be threatened or prevented from taking the stand? Wouldn't witnesses be intimidated or bribed? Wouldn't judges, court clerks, lawyers and security staff be paralysed by the once powerful military? These concerns were partly well-founded, with members of the public prosecutor's office claiming at hearings to have been threatened by the entourage of some of the defendants. However, they were partly resolved by a big presence of security guards in and around the courtroom, and above all the fact that the defendants were all taken into custody at the start of the trial. Deprived of their freedom and prestige, the defendants, in particular Captain Moussa Dadis Camara, Captain Claude Pivi and Major Moussa Tiegboro Camara, immediately lost part of their network, which in the past had been so quick to protect them and to intimidate others. In terms of communication, the hearings are broadcast on Guinean television and are also available on YouTube. They have generated a real buzz, with many people following them and commenting on them in the media and on social networks. Admittedly, journalists analyses can sometimes be less than precise, but they have raised public awareness of this trial, which is being followed not only in Guinea but throughout French-speaking Africa. It can therefore be said that communication about the trial is ensured. As for funding, for a long time it was thought that this trial could not take place without international funding. The new Guinean authorities have proved otherwise. The United States and European Union, which had offered to provide international funding, were soon put off by the Guinean Justice Ministry's inability to propose a mechanism ensuring proper use of international funds. In the end, the trial was financed exclusively from the national budget. This proves, as the victims' associations claimed, that a national trial is not that expensive to organise. Finally, in order to prepare for the trial, France and the United Nations organised training sessions for the judges taking part in the hearings. Although the preparation was fairly basic, which was not without risk, the Justice Ministrys choice of magistrates proved to be judicious overall, while the Public Prosecutor's Office was able to put together a team to share the work during the hearings. At the end of this lengthy trial, the judges will have to be able to produce a written decision that is solidly argued in fact and in law, which will no doubt be difficult, given the poor quality of the 2017 referral order and the two decisions that validated it (a 2018 ruling by the Investigation Control Chamber and a 2019 ruling by the Supreme Court). Colonel Doumbouya's determination has paid off. With hindsight, it is clear that arguments used for years to explain the postponement of the trial were just because the political authorities did not want it to take place. The proof is in the pudding: even a country with modest resources like Guinea can effectively organise the trial of perpetrators of serious human rights violations. This was recognised by the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court who, as soon as the trial opened, decided to end his preliminary examination of the situation. Defendants at a loss The trial of those accused of the 28 September 2009 massacre has been taking place for a year now, with three days of hearings a week. Despite unforeseen circumstances, such as a strike by prison guards and a boycott by lawyers demanding legal aid for their clients, the trial is proceeding in a fairly satisfactory way. However, there have still been causes for concern. The first one was regarding the defendants. Would they not become the masters of the trial? Wouldn't Captain Dadis Camara, but also Major Moussa Tiegboro and Captain Claude Pivi, impress the trial participants with their eloquence and elaborate defence? However, it was the opposite. Scarred by their detention and stripped of their dignity, the defendants were often unable to explain their presence at the stadium at the time of the massacre (corroborated by victims and witnesses) and the role they had played in the hours leading up to the events and in the days that followed. There were confused statements, unconvincing explanations, attempts to blame others. It would be an understatement to say that their defence was poorly prepared, including by their lawyers. All the defence lawyers are Guinean, whereas one might have thought some of the accused would have sought the services of international lawyers more experienced in defending high-level political and military leaders. It is true that the holding of this trial (decided in a matter of weeks) and the detention of the defendants (who had stayed free until then) took everyone by surprise. Weaknesses in the investigation? A second cause for concern was the weakness of the judicial investigation. This was conducted by three examining magistrates who didnt manage (or didnt want) to gather indisputable objective evidence (photos, videos, forensic evidence, autopsies, administrative documents, testimony from those who had confessed) implicating the accused. In addition, they made the questionable decision not to bring other people responsible for the massacre before the criminal court. Wasn't this weakness going to become very clear? So far, this has not happened. The debates have essentially focused on the statements made to the investigating judges or the court by the accused, the victims and witnesses. These statements are generally incriminating and the defendants' lawyers have not succeeded in creating any doubt. On the contrary, the spontaneity of the proceedings has highlighted the good faith of the victims and witnesses. It is true that this spontaneity was served by two of the defendants: Lieutenant Sidiki Diakite, who, understanding that Captain Dadis Camara would point to him as the main perpetrator of the massacre, took the decision to implicate most of the other defendants; and Second Lieutenant Marcel Guilavogui, who ended up describing Captain Dadis Camara as the person who had ordered the massacre. Fair trial principles A third cause for concern was the risk that the principles of fair trial would not be respected. In particular, would the trial be properly run by the presiding judge? Would the respective rights of the defence and the victims be guaranteed? In this respect, there were certain shortcomings. As well as not mastering all the legal points raised, the presiding judge did not always keep the debates to the heart of the matter, the lawyers were not sufficiently focussed, the questions asked and subjects addressed were often too peripheral, or even far removed from the crimes in question. All of this tended to drag the trial out without everyone's responsibilities being clearly established. But despite these shortcomings, the positive aspects prevail on the whole. The trial has been conducted in a dignified manner. The prosecution and civil parties were incisive when necessary. The defendants have been able to respond as much as they like. And so, as the hearings progress, the story emerges of a terrible day in Guinea's contemporary history, when the military thought they could make the demonstrators "regret" (Dadis Camaras word) their audacity, without ever being held responsible by their country's justice system. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with the newly appointed Secretary of State for Defence of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Grant Shapps, who is visiting our country, according to the presidential website on Thursday morning. Zelenskyy highly appreciated the level of cooperation with the United Kingdom in the defense sector, which allows significantly expanding the capabilities of the Ukrainian army on the battlefield, in particular thanks to long-range weapons. The interlocutors also discussed issues of strengthening Ukrainian air defense, which is especially important on the eve of the winter period. Separately, the adoption by the Group of Seven at the Vilnius NATO summit of a Joint Declaration on support for Ukraine and the start of negotiations with the UK on the conclusion of a corresponding bilateral agreement on security guarantees for Ukraine was noted. The head of state thanked Great Britain for its strong financial, defense and humanitarian support for Ukraine during the war. "On behalf of the whole nation, I thank you for everything you are doing for us. We are grateful for your help military, financial, humanitarian. We greatly appreciate that we can rely on you," the president said. JTBC teases viewers with a sneak peek of Lee Yoo Mi and Ong Seong Wu's chemistry for the highly anticipated K-drama "Strong Girl Namsoon." A spin-off to the hit 2017 K-drama "Strong Woman Do Bong Soon," starring Park Hyung Sik and Park Bo Young, the upcoming rom-com series focuses on the three generations of women born with superhuman strength. In the latest teaser, the still cuts feature Lee Yoo Mi, and Ong Seong Wu's character sparks excitement among viewers. 'Strong Girl Namsoon' Illustrates Lee Yoo Mi & Ong Seung Wu's Chemistry A few more weeks before the much-awaited premiere, JTBC unveils a glimpse of "Strong Girl Namsoon," showcasing a chaotic yet cute interaction between the duo. Taking on the titular role of Kang Nam Soon, Lee Yoo Mi showcases different emotions around Kang Hee Shik, played by Ong Seung Wu. In the drama, Nam Soon is Do Bong Soon's second cousin, who has the same ability as hers. However, unlike her cousin, who has been living with her parents her whole life, Nam Soon flew from Mongolia to find her parents. Thankfully, her lively and eccentric personality is not easily shaken by the challenges of life. IN CASE YOU MISSED: 'Strong Girl Namsoon' Teaser Hints at Epic Clash Between Heroes & Villains As for Kang Hee Shik, he has achieved a lot as the youngest police officer at Gangnam Han River Police Station. Other than his handsome looks, he is also known for his sense of justice, skills, and kind personality. Following JTBC's release of the latest teaser, this draws more excitement from fans, who can't wait to see the premiere of the much-awaited spin-off. What to Expect in 'Strong Girl Namsoon' Directed by Kim Jung Shik of "So Not Worth It" and "Work Later, Drink Now," the upcoming K-drama is penned by Baek Mi Kyung of "Mine" and "Strong Woman Do Bong Soon," which depicts the stroy of a family with extraordinary abilities. They use their strength to uncover the illegal acts within their neighborhood and the drug-related crimes around the Gangnam area. Other than Nam Soon, viewers will get to see her chemistry with her mother, Hwang Geum Joo, played by Kim Jung Eun. She is known in Gangnam as a money tycoon with a strong sense of justice. In addition, Geum Joo's mother is considered a legend in their area. Veteran actress Kim Hae Sook Nam Soon's grandmother, Gil Joong Gan. As for the antagonist, Byun Woo Seok takes on the role of viscous villain Ryu Shi Oh. He is the CEO of Dugo, a distribution and sales company. Interestingly, viewers will get to see Park Bo Young and Park Hyung Sik reprising their roles in "Strong Girl Namsoon" for a cameo appearance, bringing more excitement for the upcoming spin-off. READ MORE: 'Strong Woman Kang Nam Soon' Announces Release Date + Unveils Interesting Family Photo For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars. KDramaStars owns this article Written by Geca Wills Yang Dong Geun is overwhelmed by the huge success of the Disney+ series "Moving" and the appreciation of the viewers, especially for his role. As the webtoon-based K-drama said goodbye to viewers with a remarkable ending, the versatile star dished on his second heyday, such as getting notable characters at his age. The 44-year-old actor graced Esquire Korea, where he delivered surprising transformations as he answered questions from the publication. Yang Dong Geun was asked about his career, his experience filming "Moving," and his upcoming projects. Yang Dong Geun on Entering His 'Third Prime' With his unique charisma, Yang Dong Geun often plays as the antagonist in K-dramas. Viewers might have remembered him as Deputy Hong in "Yaksha: Ruthless Operation" and, of course, as the North Korean soldier Jung Joon Hwa in "Moving." During the interview, he revealed that he cried on the set of Disney+ because of one touching story. As for his acting career, Yang Dong Geun said, "It feels like I've entered a third prime," sharing that there have been a lot of changes in his attitude towards acting. He has been in the acting industry for decades and has played tons of notable characters throughout his career. READ MORE: THIS 'Moving' Villain Says the Disney+ K-drama Fulfilled His Childhood Dream - Here's Why However, it was only in "Moving" that Yang Dong Geun gained global fame for his portrayal of the North Korean soldier. Interestingly, viewers will get to see more of Yang Dong Geun in the coming months as the actor will be participating in two highly-anticipated sequels. First is the much-awaited return of "Hellbound" with its second sequel. The 44-year-old actor will join new cast members, playing interesting characters. As for Yang Dong Geun, he will take on the role of the Sodo leader. Adding to the list of his upcoming K-dramas is being a part of "Squid Game" season 2. He was introduced by Netflix, along with new cast members Im Siwan and Kang Ha Neul. Did You Know? Yang Dong Geun Is Also a Rapper Other than being a great actor, Yang Dong Geun started his career as a rapper and hip hop dancer and goes by the name of YDG. On Instagram, he posts random dance covers, surprising fans with his amazing talent. Meanwhile, Yang Dong Geun tells Esquiure Korea that he loves dancing so much that he acknowledges that social media had a good influence on him because he was able to relieve his passion. "I was very impressed by the sight of elderly people dancing without being embarrassed, as well as young people dancing with great enjoyment," he said. As of this writing, Yang Dong Geun's Instagram has more than 119,000 followers, and a slew of his videos include trending dance covers. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Moving' Cast: Meet the Villains in the Hit Disney+ Series For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars. KDramaStars owns this article Written by Geca Wills Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba announced that in the coming days the Defense Industries Forum will be held in Kyiv, in which more than 165 companies from around the world have confirmed their participation. "In a few days we are holding the Defense Industries Forum in Kyiv. This is our initiative because we understand that we need to think strategically and we cannot ensure consistency of supply only through warehouses. It must be ensured by increasing production and, above all, in Ukraine. We are working together with the Minister of Strategic Industries Kamyshin and the Minister of Defense Umerov in order to maximize synergy and results in this," Kuleba said in an exclusive interview with Interfax-Ukraine. As the head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, the first Ukrainian Forum of Defense Industries will bring together in Kyiv representatives not only of European companies, but also from other parts of the world. "Since everyone feels the benefit from this: because you produce something with Ukraine, strengthen Ukraine, gain experience in the combat use of these weapons and can improve them even more, increase their cost, plus implement joint technological projects. We simply, in the good sense of the word, got into the 'living nerve' of world politics, because, unfortunately, there are times to disarm, and there are times to arm. And the world is now in a phase where we have to arm ourselves, because there are characters like Putin who live in categories of war, not peace," Kuleba said. According to him, the idea of the forum was born in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs back in the spring of 2023, and now, on behalf of the President of Ukraine, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Strategic Industry and the Ministry of Defense are working as one team to organize this event. He said "this is an example of real teamwork of three ministries in the interests of the defense of Ukraine." "The key focus now is definitely on companies, on their signing contracts, on creating alliances. And here the work of the Ministry of Strategic Industry and the Ministry of Defense is key to fill all this with real content. And the Ministry of Foreign Affairs works with each country accordingly so that they delegate the maximum number of campaigns to participate in this forum. We are creating a 'political umbrella' for the forum so that companies can see that what they plan to do together with Ukraine has the political support of their governments, as well as the EU and NATO," Kuleba said. 10 Shares Share What does it take for physicians to practice with conviction to practice medicine with a sense of confidence and commitment, passionate about your work? What factors allow medical students to enter the resident pool each July and turn their timidness into poise? How do you learn to stand by your medical convictions and base your decision-making on a deep understanding of the patient combined with the latest evidence-based practices? Here are a few thoughts that come to mind. First and foremost is continuous learning. You can practice with conviction by being well-informed and up-to-date about the latest medical advancements, research, and practices. This includes attending medical conferences, participating in professional development activities, and reading the latest medical journals. I suggest you read (or skim) at least one major weekly medical journal each week, like the New England Journal of Medicine or the Journal of the American Medical Association, and two highly regarded journals in your specialty. A daily or weekly online newsfeed is also useful. Why not listen to a podcast on your way into work? The pace of medical advancements can sometimes be overwhelming, making it challenging for you to stay updated. You must find the time to read; however, because reading bolsters your confidence and strengthens your commitment. During rounds, I frequently distributed articles relevant to patients on our service, and I was proud to be called Article Lazarus by the house staff. I could always take a ribbing in the name of patient care. The more knowledge and experience you have, the more conviction you will have in your decisions and actions. This comes from years of practice, dealing with various cases, and learning from successes and failures and you will fail, make no mistake about it. The Institute of Medicine wrote To Err is Human. I keep a placard in my office that reads: I am willing to make mistakes if someone else is willing to learn from them. Doctors with conviction are able to empathize with their patients. They understand their concerns, fears, and expectations, which helps them provide the best possible care. We must never let our empathy wane. When choosing a physician, patients value affective concern as much as, if not more than, technical competence. I am dismayed by studies showing empathy decreasing midway through medical school, before doctors are newly minted. Medical students should realize that physicians who are more attuned to the psychosocial needs of their patients are more likely to have better outcomes. A physician practicing with conviction adheres strictly to medical ethics. This includes respecting patients rights, maintaining confidentiality, and avoiding any form of discrimination. We are at a tipping point where the promulgation of diversity, equity, and inclusiveness initiatives is beginning to eradicate barriers to treatment for minority populations while promoting a more diverse physician workforce. Diversity or the lack of it among medical students and physicians affects not only how care is delivered but also the ability to make clinical decisions with conviction and courage. A nurturing environment is essential to practicing with conviction. Trainees are more capable of rising to a clinical challenge when they are respected and treated well. Our collective experience reveals that it is not a health system or long working hours that guarantee residents become excellent physicians; its the conviction and dedication of the people within those systems and who schedule the hours. In order to practice with conviction, certain barriers must be overcome. The most important is imposter syndrome (IS). People often think of imposter syndrome as a lack of self-confidence, and although that is certainly a feature, the hallmark of IS is an internal feeling of intellectual phoniness, a persistent belief that you are really not bright and have fooled anyone who thinks otherwise. Individuals with IS are high achievers, but they doubt their accomplishments and believe they are unwarranted. Anyone who dreads being exposed as a fraud cannot practice with confidence. You will be saddled with doubts and fears of failing, as well as constant anxiety. Physicians with IS may be less likely to seek help or advice from their colleagues due to fear of appearing incompetent. This can hinder communication and teamwork, which are crucial in the management of patients. A lack of confidence can also be perceived by patients, potentially undermining their trust in doctors and the profession. The first time I was called on to perform venipuncture on a patient, I was a nervous wreck. My hands were trembling. The patient was keenly aware of my insecurity and refused to allow me to draw blood. My confidence was shaken, and I shied away from performing procedures afterward. Imposter syndrome can become a self-fulfilling prophecy because it keeps physicians from achieving their full potential. They develop an aversion to being in the spotlight and turn down leadership opportunities. For these reasons and others, discussions about IS should be integrated early into medical student and residency wellness programs and initiatives. Students deeply affected by IS, believing they are truly fakes, should seek psychotherapy. There may be several conditions other than IS that affect physicians commitment to practice. Prominent among them is burnout: exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced professional efficiency. Burnout clearly affects doctors commitment and passion for their work. A major cause of burnout is chronic stress often brought on by practicing with limited resources, whether its time, staff, equipment, or funding, which can prevent physicians from providing the best care possible, affecting their conviction. Physicians can take action to prevent burnout and seek help early when it occurs, restoring their commitment to practice. Systemic pressures pressures from insurance companies, hospital administrators, and many other parties tied to the medical-industrial complex can sometimes force doctors to make decisions that they are not entirely comfortable with, thereby affecting their conviction. Moral injury resulting from the failure of health systems to protect physicians during and after COVID has made them rethink their commitment to medicine. Health care institutions should focus on administrative and climate interventions to prevent and address moral injury. Finally, clinical uncertainties and treatment ambiguities can sometimes affect a physicians conviction, especially in the context of malpractice litigation. Simply the fear of litigation can make physicians practice defensive medicine rather than making decisions based solely on their professional judgment. The manner in which doctors deal with uncertainty affects their emotional well-being and ultimately their conviction to practice. Your interest in and commitment to practice will skyrocket once you learn that medicine is not always black and white and develop skills to better tolerate ambiguity. Arthur Lazarus is a former Doximity Fellow, a member of the editorial board of the American Association for Physician Leadership, and an adjunct professor of psychiatry at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. His forthcoming book is titled Every Story Counts: Exploring Contemporary Practice Through Narrative Medicine. Ukraine is determined to resolve the situation with the export of Ukrainian grain; neither Kyiv nor Warsaw needs a "grain war," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has said. "History, future and security simply leave us no other choice but to get out of this crisis. We did not create this crisis, and we are absolutely committed to ending it. Emotions are running high. Until October 15, before election day, temperatures in Poland may still rise. But we are constructive. We are working with the European Commission. We have conveyed clear signals to Poland about our commitment to a constructive solution to this situation. We don't need this grain war and neither does Poland," Kuleba said in an exclusive interview with Interfax-Ukraine. He emphasized that, using the example of relations with Bulgaria and Romania, Ukraine demonstrated that "there are no unsolvable problems." "Let me remind you that at the beginning of the crisis in the spring of this year there were five countries that introduced restrictions. Now Bulgaria and Romania have found a solution, but the other three countries have not. The reason why they have not been found is obviously not because there are no solutions. There are some other reasons why these solutions have not been found," the foreign minister added. He assured that the grain problem can be solved, "if there is a desire to solve it." "We have such a desire," Kuleba said. By Sylvia Katushabe The Minister for Works and Transport, Gen Edward Katumba Wamala, has said the government plans to expand three airports in Kasese, Arua and Kidepo to promote tourism in the country. Gen Katumba said the three airports will be upgraded in phases as and when funds allow. He explained that although the government would want to upgrade all the 14 national airports, there are no funds for this but instead will prioritise the three for the high end tourists. Somebody doesnt want to come here and then drive for 12 hours going to Queen Elizabeth; they want to come in here, pick a flight, go look at the animals, fly back and fly away. So those high-end tourists need the services of places such as Kasese airport, Kidepo airport and Arua, Gen Katumba said. He noted that the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) will guide the ministry on priorities that should be considered in regard to the airports. Gen Katumba explained that upgrading the three airports will also promote tourism within the East African region. There is a new thinking that if someone leaves Masai Mara [National Park in Kenya], for example, and wants to go to Kidepo, he or she shouldnt go through Entebbe to go through the hustle of clearing and visas. They can fly directly to Kidepo, if we have an immigration point there; they do their job and go back, he said. More details in todays copy of Daily Monitor The Constitutional Court in Kampala has ruled that Mityana Municipality Member of Parliament, Francis Zaake Butebi was illegally impeached as commissioner of parliament on grounds that natural justice was not adhered to during the then Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among-led process. Five Justices led by Catherine Bamugemereire, Eva Luswata, Irene Mulyagonja, Muzamiru Kibedi, and Osca Kihika have ruled that the Speaker of Parliament had no quorum when she suspended MP Zaake over a Facebook post he made about her, among other reasons. The judge advised the Speaker to stop being the police, the prosecutor, and a judge in her own causes, Lawyer Eron Kiiza, said on Thursday. Consequently, Among has been ordered to compensate MP Zaake at a 1% interest. Im still a commissioner of Parliament, according to the outcome of this case. It has been cleared today that the legislature as an arm of government does not respect the laws it makes. MadamAnitah Among is not supposed to be called Right Honorable because she doesnt follow the law. She thought she was untouchable but today, she has been touched, Zaake told journalists on Thursday. Meanwhile, the Attorney Generals office wanted court to dismiss the said case on grounds that Parliament never flouted any procedures or rules in passing the motion to have Zaake impeached. The MP insisted that his impeachment was unconstitutional since Parliament lacked the required quorum of more than 240 members. Zaake further wanted court to overrule on the alleged excessive powers of the then Deputy Speaker Anita Among whom he accuses of treating MPs as her slaves. He further sought court to sanction all MPs on the Rules and Privileges Committee for allegedly taking a Shs6 million bribe each instead of their entitled Shs800,000 for the 2 days they deliberated. On March 17, 2022, Zaake petitioned the constitutional court on grounds that he was unlawfully removed from his job and asked court to reinstate him. Zaake was found guilty of breaching the rules of Parliament when he allegedly used his social media to attack and abuse the then Deputy Speaker and despite numerous requests to apologise, he declined stating that the Among had to apologise to him first for claiming that he was not tortured as alleged by security operatives. According to Zaake, the now Speaker Among wrote on her social media page that he lied about being tortured since he was able to run and win medals in the East African Parliamentary Games. Fellow MP, Francis Mapenduzi moved a motion to have Zaake investigated by the Rules and Previledges Committee and later, the committee led by Bugweri County MP Abdul Katuntu recommended that he apologises to the then Deputy Speaker, but later Mapenduzi tabled a motion to have the MP impeached. By Enock Matovu At least 100 pupils of Golden Learning Centre Nursery and Primary School in Namungo Central Village, Namungo Sub County, Mityana district were Wednesday evening hospitalized after eating suspected poisoned food. The affected pupils, according to Sam Kizito, a resident neigbouring the school started complaining of stomach ache, headache, and later vomiting after eating a late lunch meal of posh and beans. The pupils had a late lunch at around 2 pm since they were making rehearsals in music, dance, and drama ahead of the schools speech day fete. So, after eating the food, some started complaining of stomach ache and headache while others were vomiting, which caused panic in the area and we were swiftly invited to save lives, he said. As the health condition of the pupils started to worsen, Mr. Kizito said they used boda bodas to rush the victims to various health facilities, including Namungo Health Centre III , Koyada Medical Clinic, and MUKJ Medical Clinic. Wamala Regional Police Spokesperson Ms Racheal Kawala , said they have arrested two cooks at the school identified as Kule Alfred and Edger Mumbere, to help them with investigations. It is true we have the two cooks in our custody at Mityana Central Police Station to aid our ongoing investigations. Food samples from the school kitchen have also been collected for forensic analysis, she said. She said detectives had also sealed off the school pending further guidance from the investigating team. Ms Kawala said most of the victims were discharged on Wednesday evening, leaving about 50 under medical monitoring at MUKJ Medical Clinic, but in stable condition. No fatalities have been reported at this time, she added. At least two students have been confirmed dead and 31 others injured following a Thursday morning road crash involving a Busitema University bus carrying Midland High School students. The school headteacher, Mr. John Baptist Ekou says the senior six students were heading to Jinja for a Geography field study when the crash happened in Awoja, Aukot sub-county, Soroti District. He says some of the survivors are currently admitted at Soroti Regional Referral Hospital. According to John Robert Tukei, the acting East Kyoga regional police spokesperson, the crash occurred when a bus belonging to Busitema University Arapai Campus, rammed into a stationary trailer registration number UBL 709T/UQ781C from behind. The driver of the bus is on the run but we are hunting for him to come and explain to us what exactly happened. We want to request the parents of this school to be calm as government is doing all necessary to ensure that the lives of these ones at the hospital are rescued, Tukei told KFM. The topic of supplying Ukraine with long-range missiles was raised during a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. President Joe Biden and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in the U.S. last week, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said. "About long-range missiles. The topic of Taurus was at the meeting of President Zelenskyy with German Chancellor Scholz, and the topic of ATACMS was at the meeting with U.S. President Biden. Head of the President's Office Andriy Yermak is working with Jake Sullivan, I am working accordingly with Antony Blinken in order to rather, this issue has been resolved. And I am convinced that the supply of ATACMS missiles to Ukraine is a matter of time. Just as we have successfully solved problems with other types of weapons before," Kuleba said in an exclusive interview with Interfax-Ukraine. In the issue of military assistance, as the minister noted, two parts should be highlighted: the stability of supplies of those weapons that have already been open for transfer since the beginning of Russian aggression, and the second topic is the last "closed" positions, which at the moment are long-range missiles ATACMS from the United States and TAURUS from Germany. "As for stability. There is the first block, and here, from the conversation between the President and U.S. Secretary of Defense Austin, it is clearly clear that the United States continues planning and is making every effort to ensure that the weapons, ammunition and shells promised to us in the required quantities are supplied stably and quickly." But there is a second block that Ukraine started this is, in fact, the joint production of weapons. And that is why in a few days we are holding the Defense Industries Forum in Kyiv," Kuleba said. 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. Councillor John Coonan brought forward a notice of motion at the latest meeting of the county council, encouraging them to take action to address the number of vacant or derelict sites and buildings across Kilkenny city and county. Cllr Coonan called some of these derelict sites a blight on the fabric of the city and county and believes it to be an issue that they ought to take very seriously. Cllr Coonan brought up a vacant residential site on Father Hayden Road that had been in the same state for as long as he had been living in Pats Parish. He suggested making the owners of these sites aware of the vacant home schemes that may be available to them. Councillor Andrew McGuinness supported the councillors motion but said that it was a complex issue with numerous different sets of circumstances. Cllr McGuinness referenced one site in particular, Hebron House, referring to it as an illegal equine centre and illegal dump. Independent councillor Eugene McGuinness also supported the motion and said that he was concerned in particular about the sites in the centre of the city. He said that it should be incumbent on the site owners to ensure that the front of the sites are kept up to scratch. Councillor David Fitzgerald said that local authorities dont seem to be actively pursuing the owners of these sites and wanted to ensure that these site owners respect the community they live within. Councillor Maria Dollard supported the notice of motion, saying that at the very least, these owners should clean up the sites. Director of Services, Dennis Malone said that the council are pursuing both vacant and derelict properties under seperate pieces of legislation. Since 2017 the Planning Authority has pursued the collection of vacant site levies. To date the Council has identified in the order of 50 sites under the Vacant sites legislation with 23 sites cancelled from that register through either activation for housing or improvement, he said. The Vacant Sites Levy will be replaced by the residential zoned land tax from 2024 which will be administered by the Revenue Commissioners. The Residential Zoned Land Tax (RZLT) is a new tax that was introduced in Finance Act 2021. It applies to land that is both zoned as suitable for residential development and is serviced. The RZLT is an annual tax, which will be first due in 2024 in respect of land which met the relevant criteria on or before January 1, 2022 and which is reflected on the map to be published by local authorities on December 1, 2023. Since 2022 we have implemented a strategic approach to tackling derelict sites, in line with the Countys settlement hierarchy, we are pursuing sites in the larger urban areas first (Kilkenny City, the district towns, Ferrybank and Rosbercon) followed by smaller towns and villages, said Mr Malone. We have added an additional 21 sites to the Derelict Sites Register since 2022, bringing the total to 34, up from January 13, 2022, he added. Mr Malone said that 20 of these sites have valuations now entered on the Register, and it is intended to value the remainder shortly, in order for the council to be in a position to levy all those sites from January 1, 2024. He also pointed out that a further six sites are currently subject to notices of intent to be added to the Register. Google, Enterprise Ireland and Local Enterprise Offices are renewing their partnership to upskill Irish SMEs by launching the 2023 Youre The Business competition. The initiative will reward businesses across Ireland that have demonstrated a commitment to digital at different stages of their journey, from those who have launched a website through to those who are just starting to export. SMEs are invited to submit a video no longer than two minutes in duration detailing what their business means to them as well as an example of how they have used digital to enhance their business. Entries are open now until October 31. The successful SMEs selected by a panel of established judges, will receive a digital support package from Google which includes a 1,000 Google ads package as well as expert mentorship across a range of technical areas that will help them to develop their business. An additional prize of a video creation kit will also be awarded to one SME that has demonstrated great efforts in promoting their business online. Cera Ward, Managing Director at Google Ireland, said Google is committed to supporting Irish SMEs upskill. "We are so excited to launch this years competition and look forward to learning about more SMEs, their challenges, and digital ambitions. Google wants to support these companies as they take their next steps on their digital journey," she said. John Magee, Chair of Local Enterprise Office Network said the digital transformation of Irish businesses is essential for their future success and the Local Enterprise Offices have been to the fore with a range of supports to enable businesses get online and maximise their online presence with the likes of the Trading Online Voucher and our Digital Start programme. "We are committed to helping Irish businesses thrive in a digital world, and this initiative in partnership with Google is just one of the many ways we continue to support our clients on their digital journey," he said. Well known columnist and producer of many fine books about Callan and its heritage, John Fitzgerald, will launch his book based on the Cromwellian period in Callan at Keoghs pub on Friday, October 6 at 8pm. Local historian Joe Kennedy of Callan Heritage will officially launch the book, which is called Invaders. It is novel set in mid-17th Century Ireland, when the country was reeling under the impact of Cromwells seemingly invincible expeditionary force. Though other parts of Ireland feature in the story, it centres mainly on what happened when the commander of the most powerful army on the planet arrived at the walls of Callan. The story is told from multiple viewpoints but the main characters include a brave captain and his 'warrior wife'. The captain has been assigned command of Skerrys Castle in Callan, a town he hadnt even heard of back on his farmstead in Westmeath. Hes committed to defending the town and its people but, unknown to him, the town governor contemplates betrayal. The character is based on the real life Captain Mark McGeoghegan, whose name is honoured on a plaque attached to the surviving fragment of Skerrys in West Street. The captains wife is also crucial to the story, with her insistence on joining the fight and mobilising the women of Callan. Many of them answer her call and follow her into battle. Edward Comerford, Callans Mayor (or Sovereign) plays a major role too as he struggles to steer a path between the two factions on the corporation, one pledged to resist the invaders, the other to suing for reasonable terms of surrender. Theres much that we dont know about what happened back in 1650. What we do know is that Cromwells forces did attack the town, subjecting it to a siege lasting at last three days; and that according to a persistent local tradition, the captains wife survived (possibly after being left for dead) and fought on. Cromwells own letters to parliament confirm that the town did indeed resist, unlike many other towns that ran up the white flag without a shot being fired. John has taken whats known about this singular event in our local history and woven a story around it. Two years of research went into the project. John wrote the first very rough draft of the novel during the Covid lockdown. Being confined to the house, or to within two kilometres of it, gave John the incentive to find something useful to do until life got back to normal. John is thinking now that the novel might double as a kind of indirect tourist promotion of the town and district. All the local heritage gems are in it, Skerrys In West Street, the Callan Motte (better known locally as the Moat), the Augustinian Abbey, St Marys Church on Green Street and the Fair Green. This was the stretch of ground upon which the invaders positioned their cannons to bombard the South Gate - but you have to buy the book to read the full story. All are welcome at the launch of Invaders. The book is also available from Amazon. The opening chapters can be read freely online. Kuleba: With approaching elections in USA, we to hear more and more statements from there that 'irritate' us Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba believes that as the election race in the United States approaches, the number of "irritating" statements for Ukrainians that will come from there will increase. "Certainly, both in the Republican and Democratic parties there are voices that say that the United States needs to get out of this story [about supporting Ukraine]. But they are in an absolute minority. However, it is clear that the further the election campaign unfolds, the more we will hear statements that will irritate us. Because these are elections and those who go against the current government should criticize the current government. This is the law," Kuleba said in an exclusive interview with Interfax-Ukraine. At the same time, he said the Republicans are not homogeneous, dividing them conditionally into "Reaganists" and "Trumpists." "There are two, relatively speaking, basic 'mainstream wings.' One wing is the so-called 'Reaganists,' and the second is the so-called 'Trumpists.' And we understand that the 'Reagan' wing is just such unconditional pro-Ukrainian 'hawks.' 'Trumpists' are more in the context of the next elections. But they, their mainstream part, do not question the need to support Ukraine. They simply associate its extension with even greater transparency, with even greater efficiency in the use of resources provided by the United States," the minister said. Speaking about the latest statements by Ron DeSantis, the governor of Florida, one of Donald Trump's competitors for the presidential election from the Republican Party, regarding the decrease in support for Ukraine, Kuleba said "the closer we get to the elections, the more irritable statements we will hear." "Since these are elections. But the main thing is that decisions in the interests of the security of Ukraine and the world continue to be made," the minister said. According to Kuleba, during his communication with the current authorities in Congress, he did not feel that the election campaigns in the United States had already started. "The president started the morning with a meeting with Spokesperson of the U.S. House of Representatives Kevin McCarthy. The conversation was very constructive and meaningful. Then there was a meeting with senators. Everything was also positive. And the meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden was not just constructive, but result-oriented and strategic vision. That is, it is clear that when the United States says that it will be close to Ukraine as long as necessary, this is exactly what they mean," the head of the department said. According to the minister, Ukraine understands that when "opponents of the Biden administration attack the administration on the Ukraine issue, their key topic will be the alleged ineffective use of American funds and corruption in Ukraine." "We are doing a lot on both the first and second tracks. During these one and a half years, there were no complaints from American auditors regarding the use of funds. Regarding corruption, everyone sees the steps taken by the president, parliament, and government. But the fact that the Biden administration is preparing to repel these attacks yes, this can be recognized. But let me emphasize that we now have a very strong position here, and I am convinced that it will remain so," Kuleba said. BEIJING, Sept 28 (Reuters) - China's Communist Party has appointed Lan Foan as the new finance ministry party chief, the ministry said in a statement on Thursday, a move that puts him on track to become the next finance minister. Lan will replace Liu Kun in that role, though Liu is still China's finance minister - a post he has held since 2018. Lan, 61, was previously the party chief of the northern Chinese Shanxi province. His departure from that post was announced by state media earlier on Thursday. Lan began his career at the finance department of the southern Guangdong province in 1985, after graduating from the Hubei University of Finance and Economics, and became a vice provincial chief in 2016, according to his profile. He transferred to Shanxi in 2021, as the province's vice party chief, before becoming the party chief in December 2022. Liu, China's finance minister since 2018, kept his job in a government reshuffle in March despite surpassing the official retirement age of 65 for minister-level officials. The world's second-largest economy is showing some signs of stabilising after a flurry of modest policy measures, but the outlook is clouded by a property downturn, aging demographics, high debt and geopolitical tensions. The government is trying to shore up the economy, while tackling a mountain of local government debt. Some policy advisers have been calling for increased infrastructure spending to support growth, while others have been advocating for structural reforms as the best way to fire up the economy. "The reshuffling at the Ministry of Finance indicates the policy stance may become more expansionary," said Zhiwei Zhang, chief economist of Pinpoint Asset Management. "The change of policy may not happen immediately, as we are already close to the end of this fiscal year. Nonetheless this move makes a change of fiscal policy stance more likely next year, which is positive for the economy." An official at the ministry said he did not have knowledge of the appointment in advance and did not know whether Liu would still attend the International Monetary Fund and World Bank annual meetings in Morocco from Oct. 9-15. "We just learned about the appointment," said the official on condition of anonymity. 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) - Coinbase has announced that its non-U.S. exchange, Coinbase International, received additional regulatory approval from the Bermuda Monetary Authority (BMA) that allows them to offer perpetual futures trading to non-US retail customers. According to the Thursday announcement from Coinbase, the added approval follows the May approval of a class F license from the BMA that allowed the exchange to offer non-U.S. institutions the ability to trade perpetual futures. In the coming weeks, we will begin to offer eligible customers access to regulated perpetual futures contracts on Coinbase Advanced, the blog post said. The move comes as Coinbase is working to partner with high-bar global regulators to build a crypto regulatory framework that allows crypto technology to continually drive innovation, they said. In expanding greater access to perpetual futures to eligible non-US customers, we are excited to further our mission to help update the global financial system and provide more economic freedom and opportunity for users around the world. Coinbase said the global crypto derivatives market represents ~75% of crypto trading volume worldwide, but only a few trusted players exist in the global crypto derivatives market that provide the security and transparency that crypto traders need to trade with confidence. As of the end of Q2, Coinbase International Exchange has facilitated more than $5.5 billion in notional trading volume from institutions. They are now looking to expand their regulatory-compliant services to the retail sector. Coinbase International provides audited financial statements that show all customer assets are backed 1:1, and the exchange has a well-capitalized Insurance Fund and Liquidity Support Program that is funded by the stablecoin USDC. All liquidity on this and other Coinbase exchanges is provided by established and independent liquidity providers who have undergone thorough compliance reviews, they said. Starting today, non-US retail traders will be able to check their eligibility for perpetual futures on Coinbase Advanced, with trading to officially begin in the coming weeks, the announcement concluded. Coinbase has spent much of 2023 focused on expanding its global operations following the regulatory crackdown on the industry in the wake of the collapse of FTX in November 2022. After the launch of Coinbase International Exchange in May, the firm signed a licensing deal with Bitpanda, an Austrian crypto investment business, that established Coinbase as Bitpandas liquidity and custody provider and gave Coinbase Institutional clients access to Bitpandas platform. The arrangement also allows Coinbase to use Bitpanda Technology Solutions business-to-business infrastructure to connect directly with banks and fintechs. In early September, the exchange announced it was focused on executing Phase II of our Go Broad, Go Deep strategy for international expansion. The goal of the strategy is to get enactment of clear rules; innovation of more efficient, more accessible products and services; and user trust created through these products and services as [their] formula for long-term growth. Phase II includes a focus on acquiring licenses, registering, and establishing and strengthening operations in Go Deep markets [including] Europe (EU and UK), Canada, Brazil, Singapore and Australia; Establishing partnerships and initiatives with banks, including both global systemically important banks and local institutions, payment providers to expand on- and off-ramps, strategic players, start-up ecosystems, and culturally relevant brands; Assuring that [their] governance and systems are compliant in every country where we operate; and Working with G20 members and major financial hubs to help build consensus and create global standards for the cryptocurrency industry. Most recently, Coinbase announced they had registered as a cryptocurrency exchange and custodian wallet provider with the Bank of Spain. The registration allows them to offer their full suite of products and services to retail and institutional users in Spain, all in compliance with the national legal framework, the blog post said. Every part of the world is seeing progress on crypto-forward regulationexcept for the US, which is opting for a strategy of enforcement of existing rules and new regulation through the courts, Coinbase said. By sidelining itself while so many advanced and emerging economies move ahead, the US risks forfeiting its influence over the future of the financial system. Coinbase still believes that the crypto sector and the U.S. government should be working as allies to reform our financial system, including by providing the kind of clarity and certainty now seen from many other governments around the world, they said. In the absence of U.S. participation, well continue our efforts with other governments to work within their rules to offer the most trusted services and products that make our financial system more efficient and accessible. BRUSSELS, Sept 28 (Reuters) - European Union governments discussed on Thursday how to revamp EU decision-making and finances to be ready for new members as the Commission said it would propose cash and EU market access for candidates to speed up their membership preparations. The talks among EU affairs ministers of the 27 current member states in the Spanish town of Murcia were to lay the groundwork for an EU summit on Oct 5-6. "Enlargement is one of the major challenges that the Union is facing," Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares, whose country holds the EU's rotating presidency, told a news conference after the meeting. "We have to be prepared for enlargement." Eight countries currently have official EU candidate status - Turkey, Ukraine, Moldova, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia - while two, Georgia and Kosovo, are potential candidate countries. EU Enlargement Commissioner Oliver Varhelyi told the news conference the EU would make internal reforms in parallel with preparations made by candidate countries to meet complex EU entry criteria. To help the candidates reform faster, the European Commission would present in the next two weeks a package of measures that would offer the candidates gradual EU market access as well as additional cash, Varhelyi said. Guiding the talks on the EU's internal preparations is a paper prepared by French and German scholars which calls for a radical overhaul of the EU's decision-making and funding before it can accept more countries by a tentative deadline of 2030. DECISION-MAKING AND MONEY Decision-making is key because the EU now requires unanimity on foreign and security policy, taxes, EU finances, some areas of justice and home affairs and social security and protection. This has already been criticised by some governments and experts as either substantially slowing or even blocking the EU's development, as all decisions in these areas have to be reduced to the lowest common denominator. Varhelyi said after the meeting that despite such challenges the Commission believed accepting new members would not require changes to the EU treaties - a potentially long and complex process that itself requires unanimity. The EU would also have to change its agriculture policy and regional policy and the European budget, if new members were to join, the Franco-German paper said. EU agriculture policy would need to be revamped because the admission of agriculture powerhouse Ukraine would dramatically change current EU direct payments to farmers. A similarly major change would happen to the EU's regional policy, under which poorer EU members receive money to raise their standard of living. The agriculture and regional funds make up two thirds of the EU budget, which totals roughly 1% of the bloc's gross national income a year. The Franco-German paper said the budget, worth around a trillion euros in 2021-27, should be bigger -- a highly contested idea in the EU. The paper, which polarised EU governments when first discussed on Sept. 19, said some countries in the EU should be allowed to form closer cooperation than others, forming four tiers of European integration. The deepest integration would be in the inner circle similar to the euro zone using the single currency and the passport-free Schengen travel zone, with the second tier the EU itself. The third, larger circle would be made up of Associate Members who would participate in the EU's single market for goods and services and adhere to the EU's common principles - along the lines of the proposal pre-announced by Varhelyi. The fourth would be the European Political Community, an outer tier for political cooperation without having to be bound to EU law. MUMBAI, Sept 28 (Reuters) - India's current account deficit widened in the April-June quarter, from the previous three months, largely due to a higher trade deficit, lower surplus in net services and a drop in private transfer receipts, the central bank said on Thursday. The current account deficit (INCURA=ECI) widened to $9.2 billion, or 1.1% of GDP, in the first quarter of fiscal 2023/24, from $1.3 billion, or 0.2% of GDP, in the January-March quarter. The deficit was $17.9 billion, or 2.1% of GDP, in the first quarter a year ago, the Reserve Bank of India's release showed. The median forecast in a Reuters poll of 17 economists was for a deficit of $8.9 billion, or 1% of GDP, for the latest first quarter. Merchandise trade deficit (INTRDQ=ECI) widened to $56.6 billion in the quarter, from $52.6 billion in the preceding quarter, but was less than the year-ago deficit of $63.1 billion. Net services receipts also decreased sequentially, mainly due to a decline in travel, business services and the exports of computers, the RBI said. Private transfer receipts, which are is mainly remittances by Indians employed overseas, moderated to $27.1 billion from $28.6 billion. The July-September quarter will see a "substantial widening" of the deficit due to the trade balance worsening sequentially, oil and higher core imports rising, and services exports slowing further, said Madhavi Arora, lead economist at Emkay Global Financial Services. The second-quarter CAD/GDP ratio could range from 2.4% to 2.6%, more than double that of the first quarter, Arora estimated. India's merchandise trade deficit widened more than expected to $24.16 billion in August, as per Reuters calculation based on government data earlier this month. Meanwhile, the country's balance of payments (INBOP=ECI) was a surplus of $24.4 billion in the first quarter, compared with a surplus of $5.6 billion in the preceding quarter and a surplus of $4.6 billion in the year-ago quarter, the RBI said. RIO DE JANEIRO, Sept 28 (Reuters) - A Brazilian court injunction is halting the sale or mining of two plots of land where takeover target Sigma Lithium is planning open pits, according to court documents seen by Reuters. Vancouver-based Sigma Lithium is one of the hottest names in Brazil's budding lithium sector a pioneer in sustainable mining practices and, according to the firm, a potential acquisition target for some of the world's top carmakers. But in recent months, Sigma has been embroiled in a legal battle between the husband-and-wife pair who ran the company together until earlier this year. The couple's ongoing divorce touched off at least five lawsuits over the businesses they built, including a dispute over some of the mineral rights where Sigma plans to build mining pits. Reuters reviewed four previously unreported lawsuits in Brazil involving current Sigma Chief Executive Ana Cabral-Gardner and Calvyn Gardner, her husband and former co-CEO, who stepped down in January, when Sigma gave no reason for his exit. Asked about issues raised by Gardner in the lawsuits, a Sigma spokesperson said in a statement: "The majority of these allegations are factually incorrect, and we look forward to seeing them proved false during court proceedings." Gardner declined to comment. Cabral-Gardner did not reply to a request for comment. In one of the lawsuits, Gardner accused his wife of misusing her powers as a majority shareholder in a firm they both have shares in, called RI-X Mineracao e Consultoria, to transfer mineral rights from an RI-X subsidiary to Sigma at no cost. That transaction, Gardner's lawyers argued, would grant Sigma mineral rights to valuable lithium deposits and hurt RI-X's ability to develop its own mining project. At the time of the transfer, Gardner owned 49% of RI-X and Cabral-Gardner held 51%, documents show. RI-X did not reply to a request for comment. In a June 27 ruling, a Sao Paulo state judge issued an injunction over that May mineral rights transfer, on the grounds that the free transfer of the rights may harm Gardner's interests. While the judge did not reverse the transfer, the injunction froze Sigma's ability to sell, mine or use the two plots as collateral. Reuters could not establish how or when the injunction may be lifted. The disputed plots are located in the middle of two proposed mining pits planned for the second and third phases of Sigma's flagship Grota do Cirilo project, in Minas Gerais state, according to documents in the lawsuit submitted by Gardner's lawyers. Sigma told Reuters the injunction would not hurt its expansion, as it said it can develop the area via a "waste sharing agreement" it signed with RI-X in August. The miner also said its dealmaking efforts were not affected. "The dispute over these two small plots is not an impediment to Sigma's ability to conduct its strategic review of potential partners in the global energy, automobile, battery and lithium refining industries," the spokesperson said. The plots include a combined area of at least 15 hectares (37 acres), according to a court filing, and Gardner's lawyers estimate a value of 2.9 billion reais ($595 million). Sigma disputed that valuation, calling it "outlandish" and adding that Gardner had previously agreed to the transfer in emails. Reuters could not independently confirm this. The plots "contain no mineral reserves or resources," Sigma said, adding that it has contracted Deloitte for a fair market valuation, "which we anticipate being not material." Deloitte declined to comment. Sigma's lawyers have asked the judge to lift the injunction, arguing in an Aug. 28 petition that it "affects the free development of Sigma Mineracao's business." They also asked the judge to seal the lawsuit, in order to "preserve sensitive commercial data and information that emerges." The judge has yet to rule on that motion. Mining is already underway in the first phase of the Grota do Cirilo project, Sigma's only productive asset, about 6 km (4 miles) north of the disputed area. Sigma said in a press release this month that it expects to produce 270,000 metric tons of lithium concentrate in its first year of full operation - over twice the 112,000 metric tons of lithium concentrate produced in all of Brazil last year, according to the Brazilian Mining Association. Sigma also said this month that the two-phase expansion, which it could start as soon as next year, according to a June 30 financial report, would boost output to 766,000 metric tons per year. Sigma's share price has risen around 20% this year on expectations of a takeover. Sigma said this month it had received multiple takeover offers from "global industry leaders in the energy, auto, batteries and lithium refining industries." The couple's divorce has already cast a shadow over Sigma's plans to sell itself, according to the miner. Last month, Sigma sued Gardner in a New York court, accusing him of stealing trade secrets to undermine the miner's dealmaking efforts and "gain leverage in the divorce proceedings." Sigma declined to comment on the New York lawsuit, and said "the divorce proceedings are a private, personal matter and have no impact on how Sigma Lithium conducts business." Gardner declined to comment on the New York lawsuit. (Reporting by Fabio Teixeira Additional reporting by Ernest Scheyder Editing by Gabriel Stargardter, Brad Haynes and Rosalba O'Brien) Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect those of Kitco Metals Inc. The author has made every effort to ensure accuracy of information provided; however, neither Kitco Metals Inc. nor the author can guarantee such accuracy. This article is strictly for informational purposes only. It is not a solicitation to make any exchange in commodities, securities or other financial instruments. Kitco Metals Inc. and the author of this article do not accept culpability for losses and/ or damages arising from the use of this publication. Sept 28 (Reuters) - London stocks lagged on Thursday, dragged by declines in homebuilders, and travel and leisure stocks, though losses were limited by gains in the energy sector. Both the FTSE 100 (.FTSE) and the FTSE 250 (.FTMC) fell 0.6% by 0854 GMT. Shares of 888 Holdings (888.L) tumbled 16.5% after the bookmaker forecast annual core profit below its prior expectations after flagging a 10% decline in third-quarter revenue. The broader travel and leisure index (.FTNMX405010) dived 2.1%. Meanwhile, homebuilders (.FTNMX402020) declined 2.1% as higher-for-longer rates partly weighed on investor sentiment, with Barratt Developments (.BDEV) down 6% as the stock traded ex-dividend. Banks stocks (.FTNMX301010) were also down 0.4%, while life insurers (.FTNMX303010) dropped 1.4%. Shares of Phoenix Group (PHNX.L) fell 5.8% after the life insurer posted a marginal rise in its half-yearly adjusted operating profit and traded ex-dividend. HSBC (HSBA.L) edged down 0.2% after sources said the bank is set to acquire Citigroup's (C.N) China consumer wealth management business, which manages more than $3 billion in assets. Britain set out plans to ease key banking and insurance rules in the latest attempt to boost its vital financial sector following the country's departure from the European Union. However, energy stocks (.FTNMX601010) rose 0.4% tracking higher oil prices and limiting losses. U.S. oil futures jumped to their highest in more than a year on Thursday as a drop in crude stocks in the United States added to worries over tight global supplies from OPEC+ output cuts. "UK market has a very large concentration of energy companies," said Marija Veitmane, head of equity research at State Street Global Markets. "Oil supply will stay tight for some time, that will support oil price and so that's great for UK stocks in a relative sense." Insurer M&G (MNG.L), cigarette maker British American Tobacco (BATS.L), paper and packaging producer Smurfit Kappa , property portal Rightmove Plc (RMV.L) fell between 1.5% and 4.8% as they traded ex-dividend. The U.S.-EU summit, which will be held on October 20 in Washington, will discuss cooperation between the parties, as well as further support for Ukraine in repelling Russian aggression. This is discussed in a joint statement by the United States and the EU, the text of which was distributed by the European Council in Brussels on Thursday. "President [Joe] Biden looks forward to welcoming President Charles Michel of the European Council and President Ursula von der Leyen of the European Commission to the White House on Friday, October 20, 2023 for the second U.S.- EU Summit since President Biden took office. The leaders will review the strong cooperation between the United States and the European Union, including our shared commitment to support Ukraine as it defends its sovereignty and to impose costs on Russia for its aggression," according to the document. In addition, the leaders said they will "advance U.S.- EU efforts to accelerate the global clean energy economy based on secure, resilient supply chains, and will continue cooperation in critical and emerging technologies, including on digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence." They will also review joint activities to strengthen economic resilience and to address related challenges. PANAMA CITY, Sept 28 (Reuters) - Panama's National Assembly decided on Thursday to suspend the debate for a new contract with Minera Panama, the local subsidiary of Canadian miner First Quantum , as lawmakers seek a government revision of the current proposal. The assembly's trade commission decided to suspend discussions on the contract and recommended its withdrawal for a review. Earlier this month, some members of Panama's congress visited First Quantum's copper mine to resolve doubts over the contract expressed across the Central American country as it debates the new changes. The contract concerns First Quantum's flagship operation, Cobre Panama, a huge open-pit copper mine in the Panama jungle which accounts for nearly half of its earnings, as well as some 4% of Panama's gross domestic product. The contract, which would guarantee the Central American government an annual income of $375 million, has sparked controversy in Panama with critics objecting to the mine's environmental impacts and permits to expand its operations. A spokesperson for Panama's trade ministry told Reuters it hoped to speak with company representatives in coming days "in permanent session" to make the necessary changes. Minera Panama did not immediately respond to a request for comment. (Reporting by Elida Moreno; Additional reporting by Valentine Hilaire; Editing by Sarah Morland) Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect those of Kitco Metals Inc. The author has made every effort to ensure accuracy of information provided; however, neither Kitco Metals Inc. nor the author can guarantee such accuracy. This article is strictly for informational purposes only. It is not a solicitation to make any exchange in commodities, securities or other financial instruments. Kitco Metals Inc. and the author of this article do not accept culpability for losses and/ or damages arising from the use of this publication. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has said he has no evidence that the drone crash in Romania was the result of a deliberate attack. As for the wreckage of drones in Romania, Stoltenberg said in Kyiv on Thursday at a press conference after talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that they have no evidence that this is the result of some kind of deliberate attack by Russia on the territory of the Alliance. He said that the Russian war and careless strikes on the border with Romania are destabilizing and NATO has repeatedly stated that it will protect all members of the Alliance. According to him, they have significantly strengthened its presence of eastern members of the Alliance, including in Romania, have sent more troops there, in addition they are carrying out more air patrols: different forces, means that allow to monitor the situation on the borders of NATO more closely. Yahoo News reports: Former President Donald Trump, his top executives, and heirs were declared completely liable of persistent and repeated fraudand the real estate empire was unceremoniously stripped of its business licenses in New Yorkafter a judge's powerful ruling Tuesday ahead of a massive trial that seeks to hit them with more than $250 million in penalties for bank fraud. And in a stunning development, the judge has already ordered the complete dissolution of the fabled Trump Organizationthe tycoon's pride and joy, the empire that made him famous and elevated him into the White House. The Trump Organization and its sister companies will be sent into receivership to be under the control of a court-appointed officer. In his 35-page opinion, Justice Arthur F. Engoron tore apart what he called the Trump family's bogus arguments and obstreperous conduct. And he summed up the entire defense as a fantasy world, not the real world. In defendants' world: rent regulated apartments are worth the same as unregulated apartments; restricted land is worth the same as unrestricted land, restricts can evaporate into thin air all illegal acts are untimely if they stem from one untimely act; and square footage [is] subjective, he wrote. Press Release September 28, 2023 CHIZ CALLS FOR STRONGER TIES BETWEEN FILIPINO, CHINESE BUSINESSES TO BOOST ECONOMIC COOPERATION Sen. Chiz Escudero has called on Filipino and Chinese businessmen to work together to enhance economic cooperation between the Philippines and China and transcend political differences of the two countries. In his keynote address at the Philippine Investors' Roadshow held at the St. Regis Hotel in Beijing on Sept. 27, Escudero stressed the need for business leaders to set aside political issues hounding Manila and Beijing and instead focus on trade, which he said was a vital aspect of the Philippine-Sino bilateral ties. "Today, we find ourselves in a unique situation, as our nations currently have territorial differences," the senator said. "At this forum, we have an opportunity to transcend political differences and focus on the economic potential that exists between our two nations. It is crucial to recognize that economic cooperation can play a vital role in bridging gaps and moving toward a more harmonious future," Escudero said. While the Philippines and China are currently dealing with territorial issues involving the West Philippine Sea, he told the business community, both countries have to further strengthen their trade and investment relations. "While this issue has its complexities and challenges, I firmly believe that dialogue and cooperation are essential to finding a common ground and fostering mutually beneficial relations," Escudero pointed out. "By choosing economic collaboration, we demonstrate a commitment to resolving differences and disputes peacefully through diplomacy." According to the Bicolano senator, as the two nations engage in constructive dialogue, the groundwork is paved for resolving territorial differences "in a manner that benefits our nations and encourages a spirit of peaceful coexistence." The Philippine Investors' Roadshow in Beijing was organized by the Department of Trade and Industry and the Philippine Embassy in China, together with the Office of the Special Envoys of the President to China Maynard Ngu and Benito Techico. The two-day event was a follow-up to the visit of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to China earlier this year. China has been the Philippines' largest trading partner for six consecutive years. Representatives of public organizations signed a Manifesto in Kyiv on the creation of an Alliance of Ukrainian Civil Society organizations, according to the Facebook page of the Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS). "Currently, 13 civil society organizations have joined forces to respond to the consequences of the war and overcome the humanitarian crisis. The initiators of the creation of the Alliance were a group of organizations of the International Charitable Foundation Caritas Ukraine, the Ukrainian Red Cross, the Charitable Foundation Right to Protection," the message says. As URCS noted, during the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation, especially in the first months of the war, it was civil society organizations that played a leadership role, acted quickly and efficiently, using established horizontal ties, and together with local and national authorities overcame challenges and responded to the needs of the population. According to Maksym Dotsenko, Director General of the National Committee of the URCS, Ukrainian organizations on the ground were the first to come to the aid of citizens affected by Russian aggression. "We have been at war for more than a year and a half. And as practice has shown, it is Ukrainian local organizations that are the first to come to the aid of Ukrainians and all those who have suffered from the war. Ukrainian organizations are people from local communities who know and understand the needs of the population on the ground," Dotsenko stressed, recalling that 200 URCS cells operate in Ukraine. According to Hryhoriy Seleschuk, Director of Humanitarian Response at the ICF Caritas Ukraine, in recent months humanitarian organizations such as Caritas Ukraine, the Ukrainian Red Cross, and the Right to Protection have joined forces to provide humanitarian assistance to the population. "Now it is important for us to find and develop a joint plan for development and assistance to people affected by the war," he said. Oleksandr Halkin, President of the Right to Protection Charitable Foundation, noted that the goal of the Alliance is to develop a network of civil society organizations at the regional and national levels with strong and effective partnerships. "This will unite both large all-Ukrainian organizations and organizations at the regional level, which will allow Ukrainian public organizations to cooperate fruitfully throughout Ukraine ... I hope that this will help the people of Ukraine overcome the consequences of the war," Halkin stressed. At NATO Industry Forum in Stockholm, the possibility of increasing the production of ammunition will be discussed. And then we will have the NATO Industry Forum in Stockholm next month. Again, the main focus will be on how to invest more, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said in Kyiv at a press conference after talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday. We had a meeting recently at NATO. It is now clear that we have what we call framework contracts, standards contracts, for $2.5 billion for key ammunition out of which $1 billion is already firm signed contracts. So yes, rest assured we will produce, we will deliver ammunition, weapons, because this is about solidarity with Ukraine, he said. It would be a tragedy for Ukrainians if Russia wins but it will also be extremely dangerous for us. So it is in our security interest to ensure that we provide Ukraine with the support they need to win this war, the Secretary General noted. Actor Michael Gambon, pictured here in 2016, has died at 82 after a bout of pneumonia, a statement issued on behalf of his family said on Thursday, PA Media news agency reported. The family of Crystal McAlpin says that more could have been done to save the 33-year-old who was killed in a deadly crash on September 22. Her loved ones are pointing the finger at St. Louis City dispatchers and slow emergency response times. Poland not to lift embargo on Ukrainian grain, even if Ukraine withdraws its complaint from the WTO govt rep Poland does not intend to lift the embargo on Ukrainian agricultural products, even if Ukraine withdraws its complaint from the World Trade Organization (WTO), Polish government spokesman Piotr Muller said on radiozet.pl. "The embargo will remain in place until we come to the conclusion that it [Ukrainian grain] will not negatively affect our agricultural market, which is unlikely to happen in the near future," Muller said. He said that Poland is ready to negotiate with Ukraine, but "at the moment the situation is such that the embargo remains." "Ukraine's withdrawal of the WTO complaint would be a good gesture, which would show that Ukraine wants partnership negotiations, and not procedural conversations," the representative of the Polish government said. When asked whether Poland would accept the proposal from the Ukrainian side, Muller said that it was "unacceptable" for Warsaw. "In fact, Ukraine wants these goods to be imported under licenses, but without defining clear limits. This could again destabilize our market," he said. Shares of Treasury Wine Estates Limited (OTCMKTS:TSRYY Get Free Report) shot up 0.4% during mid-day trading on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as $7.81 and last traded at $7.71. 39,671 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 37% from the average session volume of 62,954 shares. The stock had previously closed at $7.68. Treasury Wine Estates Price Performance The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $7.59 and a 200-day simple moving average of $8.07. Get Treasury Wine Estates alerts: Treasury Wine Estates Cuts Dividend The company also recently disclosed a dividend, which will be paid on Friday, October 13th. Investors of record on Thursday, August 31st will be issued a $0.0968 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, August 30th. Treasury Wine Estatess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently -65.14%. Treasury Wine Estates Company Profile Treasury Wine Estates Limited operates as a wine company primarily in Australia, New Zealand, Asia, Europe, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas. The company engages in the viticulture and winemaking; and marketing, sale, and distribution of wine. Its wine portfolio includes luxury, premium and commercial wine brands, such as 19 Crimes, Acacia Vineyard, Annie's Lane, Beaulieu Vineyard, Belcreme de Lys, Beringer Vineyards, Blossom Hill, Cavaliere d'Oro, Coldstream Hills, Devil's Lair, EMBRAZEN, Etude, Fifth Leg, Heemskerk, Hewitt Vineyard, Ingoldby, Jamieson's Run, Killawarra, Leo Buring, Lindeman's, Maison de Grand Esprit, Matua, Penfolds, Pepperjack, Rawson's Retreat, Rosemount Estate, Run Riot, Saltram, Samuel Wynn & Co, Secret Stone, Seppelt, Shingle Peak, Sledgehammer, Squealing pig, St Huberts, Stags' Leap Winery, Stellina di Notte, Sterling Vineyards, T'Gallant, The Walking Dead Wine, Wolf Blass, Wynns Coonawarra Estate, and Yellowglen. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Treasury Wine Estates Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Treasury Wine Estates and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Yes, by at least $1 Yes, by $2 or more No Vote View Results If you're interested in submitting a Letter to the Editor, click here. Submit 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. Girls' Generation's fans, SONEs, were infuriated after a man tried to touch member Sooyoung without her permission during a fanmeeting. Girls Generation Sooyoung Embarks on Asian Fanmeeting Tour 2023 'My Muse' Earlier in September, SNSD Sooyoung officially kickstarted her 2023 Asian fanmeeting tour, "My Muse," which opened in Seoul on the 9th and will run until October 15. Taipei, Taiwan is her last stop. In particular, Sooyoung's fanmeeting began with the idol meeting her Korean fans at the Bluesquare Mastercard Hall, Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu in Seoul, South Korea. ALSO READ: SNSD Sooyoung Opens Up on Taking Over Father's Foundation: 'I'm planning to continue his triumph' During the 150-minute event, she performed a selection of SNSD hit songs as well as drawing attention to her 4th-gen songs medley, showing her unrelenting dancing skills. On September 20 and 23, Sooyoung then visited Japan, the country where she first debuted as an idol and visited her fans in Yokohama and Osaka, respectively. On October 1 then, she's set to see her Thai fans in Bangkok, Thailand, followed by her last stop in Taipei, Taiwan on October 15. Man Angers SONEs After Attempting to Touch Sooyoung Amid the fanmeeting tour, Sooyoung's fans have been sharing clips and photos of the idol from her shows, and the fandom was delighted to see various enjoyable and wholesome interactions between the idol and the fans. However, the star's supporters were upset when a Japanese SONE shared a video of a man who tried to touch and get close to Sooyoung. The fan wrote: "Isn't it impossible for anyone not to touch Sooyoung during group photo? I don't think you can touch them unless the idol gives her consent/initiates the action. I don't know which country you are from, but the way he did this gesture with his fingers when taking pictures. was so obscene. I can't believe people like this are SONE...I want them banned." In the video, a man, who is believed to be SONE, was one of the lucky fans to be invited on the stage to have a photo op with Sooyoung. Before the photo, the man tried to put/poke Sooyoung's back, fortunately, the idol's staff quickly noticed it and told him to take off his hand and not do it. Sooyoung who noticed the scene forced a smile on the man, but it was noticeable that she took a deep breath before their photo was taken, seemingly uncomfortable. When the video spread on Twitter, fans were enraged and called out the unknown guy for doing it to Sooyoung. Regardless of how close the idol and artist's relationship is, fans reminded their co-supporters that there is still a line that shouldn't be crossed, especially when invading their personal space and privacy. There are also numerous tweets from SONEs expressing their frustrations such as: im so freaking pissed.. this weirdo better not show up on any other fanmeet stops. being a fan doesnt give you the right to touch sooyoung without her consent. know how to respect her personal space. https://t.co/7zx4At4I1c daph (@syoungshine) September 26, 2023 call me dramatic and overprotective but i need y'all to keep your hands off sooyoung. just cause you were invited on stage doesn't mean you can do whatever you want, especially if you're a male fan kneeling next to a girl in a short skirt, legs completely naked. don't touch her. Anna loves Chul 3000. (@SUJUSHlDAE_) September 26, 2023 OMG!! Just dont do this kind of thing!!! Thank God the staff was there to stop or else he might do something more! *to be closer & be in 1 photo w/ ur udol is good enough, please dont invade their personal space and NEVER INTENTIONALLY TOUCH THEM https://t.co/VHcJPCPOhJ kae (@liaotu16) September 27, 2023 Expose the face! SONEs should respect soshi and don't touch them unless they consent. doesnt matter girl or guy. It's basic manners. and the staff should have dragged him off the stage right there. Where did this happen? https://t.co/k0c5Z5wNSC (@_dreamystars) September 26, 2023 READ MORE: SNSD Sooyoung Chased By SM Bodyguard After Being Mistaken For 'Outsider' What Happened? For more K-Pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz. KpopStarz owns this article. Written by Eunice Dawson. Ahead of BLACKPINK Lisa's three-day performance in Crazy Horse de Paris cabaret, the show's general manager revealed why the idol decided to join. BLACKPINK Lisa Revealed to be Fan of Crazy Horse + Reason She Was Recruited Ahead of the Crazy Horse Paris stage that will take place from September 28 to 30, fashion magazine ELLE released an interview with Andree Deissenberg, the show's chief creative and brand officer. Regarding Lisa's recruitment to join the show, she revealed: "(BLACKPINK) Lisa is a fan of Crazy Horse." She continued: "She came several times, and she often went to see the girls after the backstage show to meet them." Thinking that it was a good idea, she invited the star to join the show and the rest was history. This makes Lisa the first K-pop idol to join the stage of one of the three most famous Parisian cabarets, known to be nude performing art shows. Deissenberg went on to praise the idol and said: "She stayed in Paris and practiced repeatedly. She's done very well, professionally. We practiced during their Paris concert in July, and we kept the whole process a secret." ALSO READ: Lisa's Participation in Crazy Horse Paris Sparks Concern for Potential Sexual Harassment In fact, it was Lisa who led the planning and overall content of the show, and contrary to tradition, she'll not perform separately but with the existing dancers. Through Lisa's participation, Deissenberg also aimed to: "By inviting the BLACKPINK star, Crazy Horse wants to welcome young women as new customers. At the end of the day, they are our future audience. Our Crazy Horse symbolizes women's pride, freedom, and curiosity. Through this performance, Lisa also showed such a symbol, I think." K-Netz Aren't Impressed With Lisa's Reason for Joining Crazy Horse Despite their aspiration to attract modern young women, fans weren't impressed with this explanation and how Lisa ended up joining the nude art show. To Korean fans, this show was nothing like art aside from Lisa trying to be a "stripper." "So it's just like Lisa likes to strip and wants to be a stripper, which is really shocking." "The luxury brand ambassador became a stripper, this is crazy." "So it's just like, Lisa just likes the show, there's no other reason." "She wasted YG's effort to create a luxurious image for her." "Personally, I am negative about Lisa being on a show like this. Regardless of my opinion, if we will purely consider why Lisa wants to appear in the show was because she's probably like, 'I think it will be fun.' It's not like she needed any money and she probably thinks that she's doing it as a fun attempt with low psychological hurdles." READ MORE: BLACKPINK Lisa Becomes Guinness World Record Holder With 'MONEY' For more K-Pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz. KpopStarz owns this article. Written by Eunice Dawson. Ukrainian Red Cross Society and Swedish Red Cross have signed an agreement on the implementation of a three-year intersectoral response program in Sumy region. "It [the program] will be implemented within the framework of a three-year partnership until 2026 inclusive and reaches over SEK 75 million," Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) reported on Facebook on Thursday. The program will help URCS and support the activities of Sumy regional organization of URCS. The project will help make basic medical care more accessible, especially in remote areas, as well as social services for older people, people with disabilities and lonely people. The program also provides for the development of local URCS organizations, assistance to rapid response units and provision of URCS cells to issue humanitarian assistance to the most vulnerable segments of the population. The missile that fell in the Polish village of Przewodow in November 2022 and claimed the lives of two local residents was a Ukrainian one, Polish Justice Minister and Prosecutor General Zbigniew Ziobro said in Lublin on Thursday, citing the results of an expert report, according to the Polish news portal Onet. "The investigation, conducted by the Polish Public Prosecutor's Office, resulted into the issuance of a conclusion which categorically states that this missile was Ukrainian of Soviet or Russian production. As for the launch site and affiliation with a specific military group, it was a Ukrainian missile," Ziobro said. The minister expressed regret at the lack of cooperation with the Ukrainian side in this matter. He noted that Polish prosecutors cooperate with Ukraine and travel to the country, "putting their own health and lives at risk to help the Ukrainian side document the Russian crimes committed there." Meanwhile, according to Ziobro, the Ukrainian side does not demonstrate a similar attitude towards Polish investigators in the case of the missile crash in Przewodow. "This has been going on for several months now. I don't think that this is a decision at the level of the prosecutor. I think that these are decisions at a high political level of the Ukrainian state," the minister said. According to the Polish authorities, a Ukrainian air defense missile most likely fell into a grain drying area and all indications are that it was an accident. As reported, on November 15, 2022, the Russian armed forces mounted another long-lasting massive shelling attack on the territory of Ukraine and its critical infrastructure facilities. At 15:40, a Russian-made rocket fell in the village of Przewodow, Hrubieszow Powiat, Lublin Voivodeship, killing two citizens of Poland. The next day, the Polish side, as well as representatives of a number of foreign countries, came to the conclusion that the missile that fell in Przewodow was fired by Ukrainian air defense forces. At the same time, the blame is placed on Russia which carried out the massive missile attack on Ukraine. On September 17, the European Union issued a statement that the tragic incident in Poland, where an explosion killed two people, was the result of a series of massive Russian missile attacks on Ukrainian cities. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell expressed condolences to the families of those killed in Poland and Ukraine. He said that the EU fully supports Poland's fact-finding investigation on the ground and will remain in close contact with the partners, including NATO, on next steps. Three people were killed as a result of Russian occupation forces' artillery attack on Kherson, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak has said. "Russian forces have shelled Kherson using artillery. Currently, we know that three women were killed," he said on the Telegram channel on Thursday. Interior Minister of Ukraine Ihor Klymenko also said that Russian artillery attacked a residential district of Kherson. "Three women, who were in the street at that moment, were killed. Every day under enemy shelling. In the past 24 hours alone, the occupiers ten times shelled Kherson district using artily," he said on the Telegram channel. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has held a meeting with French Minister of the Armed Forces Sebastien Lecornu and discussed with him further steps to strengthen the defense capability of Ukraine with the support of France, in particular the possibility of joint production of weapons, the press service of the president reports. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with French Minister of the Armed Forces Sebastien Lecornu, who is visiting our country. The Head of State acknowledged France's comprehensive assistance to Ukraine. He highly appreciated President Emmanuel Macron's personal role in supporting international initiatives of our state and decisions to strengthen Ukrainian defense forces, the message posted on the website of the President of Ukraine says. "I want to express my special thanks to French President Macron for the fact that all our agreements have yielded a powerful result in strengthening the Ukrainian army," Zelenskyy said. As reported, During the meeting, further steps to enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities with the support of France were discussed in detail, including the possibility of initiating joint production of certain types of weapons. The Head of State noted the effectiveness of military assistance provided by France, in particular the SAMP/T anti-aircraft missile systems, Caesar self-propelled artillery systems and SCALP-EG long-range missiles. Special attention was given to strengthening Ukraine's air defense, especially crucial in the lead-up to the winter period, the message reads. Zelenskyy also awarded Lecornu the Order of Merit of II class, for his significant personal contribution to strengthening intergovernmental cooperation, support of Ukraine's state sovereignty and territorial integrity. PNN New Delhi [India], September 28: BOP.in, a pioneering name in India's real estate consultancy sector, has successfully hosted the nation's most monumental real estate event, the "India's Biggest Real Estate Conclave" with the theme of BIG. The grand event took place on September 27, 2023, at the prestigious Siri Fort Auditorium, August Kranti Marg, New Delhi, drawing together an impressive gathering of 2000 stakeholders. Also Read | Bihar Firing: RJD Leader Anirudha Chaudhary Shot Dead by Unidentified Assailants in Begusarai District. This landmark event revolved around the exclusive motivational session conducted by the renowned speaker, Dr Vivek Bindra. BOP.in created history by becoming the first in the industry to host such an inspiring and transformational session dedicated to enhancing performance and motivation within the real estate sector. The event proved to be a game-changing platform, with attendees hailing from various regions of North India. It provided a unique opportunity for stakeholders to network, learn, and collaborate. Notably, the conclave featured an exciting offer, with a car giveaway promotion included with every booking. BOP.in in collaboration with Gaurs Group, unveiled a groundbreaking plan designed to benefit industry partners. The unveiling of these new incentives marked a significant step toward addressing industry challenges and fostering growth. The conclave's agenda delved into pertinent industry challenges and offered pragmatic solutions. Attendees gained invaluable insights into the latest strategies and fundamentals essential for achieving sustainable business growth. Also Read | iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max Overheating? Customers Say New iPhone 15 Devices Heat Up While Playing Games, Phone Call and FaceTime Video Chat. "The Real Estate Conclave stands as a significant milestone in our industry, bringing together 2000 individuals from cities across the North for a day of inspiration, education, and productive collaboration. BOP is generating employment for youth in real estate industry and elevating them through such type of training sessions. Dr Vivek Bindra's motivational session was a transformative experience, setting a new standard for our entire industry. This event reaffirms our unwavering commitment to fostering growth and excellence in real estate. shared Gaurav Mavi, Co-Founder of the BOP Group. BOP.in "India's Biggest Real Estate Conclave" has not only set a historic precedent but has also left a profound impact on the real estate industry in the Indian capital. The event's success underscores the company's plans for the industry. BOP.in is a leading name in the Indian real estate consultancy sector, dedicated to reshaping the way real estate is approached and managed. With over 15 years of experience, BOP.in has established itself as a trailblazer, offering a wide range of consultancy services to both realty developers and discerning consumers. With over 1.7 lac happy customers, the company's dedication to staying ahead of market trends, harnessing technology, and providing tailored solutions has earned it a reputation as an industry leader. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) NewsVoir New Delhi [India], September 28: Doceree, the leading global network of physician-only platforms for programmatic messaging, today announced a USD 35 million Series B round led by Creaegis, the leading digital and technology investment firm. Existing investors, Eight Roads Ventures, and F-Prime Capital, also participated in the round. Also Read | Manipur Violence: Centre Sends Senior Police Officer Rakesh Balwal in Wake of Fresh Violence in State. Driven solely by the mission to transform healthcare professional (HCP) marketing globally, the funds will enable Doceree to accelerate product development, augment technologies, scale global expansion, and expand team. Founded in 2019, Doceree empowers pharmaceutical and life-sciences companies and healthcare media agencies with solutions that seamlessly reach HCPs on their networks and within their digital workflows, to achieve better patient health outcomes. The company, with its largest global network of HCP-only digital platforms, has made rapid strides in HCP communications through its programmatic messaging capabilities, to help clients across the globe maximize performance of their physician engagement initiatives. Also Read | Elon Musk-Run X Disables Feature That Lets Users Report Misinformation About Elections, Says Report. We are pioneering HCP messaging solutions that are first to market. It is incredible to watch our innovative products disrupt the space and drive adoption of programmatic technology in the life-sciences industry, not just in evolved markets like the US, but also elsewhere in the same vein. We have been able to simplify HCP engagement globally with our unique AI-enabled proprietary technology and offer quality end-to-end HCP-targeting solutions that have helped our clients succeed with profitable growth. The pharma messaging space is evolving at a fast pace and our solutions are aligned to meet the immediate requirements of the life sciences industry. The investment speaks volumes about the value we are creating in the space, said Harshit Jain MD, Founder & Global CEO, Doceree. Jain further added, We are growing massively and have competitive edge. We are thrilled about the future as we continue to expand and touch new horizons in the space. Doceree has grown more than 100 per cent in the last one year with monthly revenue rising five folds between the Series A funding in April 2022 and now. The company has introduced category-first innovations on the demand and supply sides, including Doceree Enterprise, an HCP-focussed global Demand Side Platform (DSP), and Doceree Provider that empowers HCPs to improve health outcomes of their patients. Its HCP marketing ecosystem consists of custom-built solutions that equip life science marketers to engage with physicians at opportune moments with contextual messaging and evaluate campaign performances to improve script lift. Prakash Parthasarathy, Managing Partner & CIO and Nitish Bandi, Partner, Creaegis, said, We are excited to partner with Harshit and the Doceree team to support the company in its next phase of growth led by an industry leading digital platform driven by deep learning-based data models. Our past experience of investing in pioneering global SaaS companies and in the healthcare ecosystem will enable us to support the companys mission to create superior outcomes for pharma brands, providers and patients. On the back of the huge response to its solutions in the US, India and the European markets, Doceree expanded its footprints to Africa, Southeast Asia (SEA), and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), curating and iterating solutions that serve the specific needs of marketers in these regions. Docerees technology platform allows biopharmaceutical companies to connect with physicians like never before. The companys impressive growth trajectory is an outcome of its unique, data-driven approach to enable communication with precision and relevance. It has been exciting to partner with Harshit and the team since their Series A round, and we are thrilled to continue supporting their pioneering work, Ashish Venkataramani, Partner, Eight Roads Ventures. A line-up of smart and connected solutions from Docerees product portfolio are awaiting launch in the months to come that will bring massive transformational change to the entire ecosystem globally. The products will facilitate HCP targeting like never before, enriching communications at multiple HCP touchpoints in the professional and clinical journeys of physicians. Investec advised Doceree on the Series B transaction. Doceree is a global platform building unique solutions for healthcare professional (HCP) programmatic messaging with proprietary data tools. It facilitates messaging between life sciences brands and HCPs through an extensive global network of digital endemic and point-of-care platforms to programmatically deliver personalized communications to HCPs at scale. To learn more, visit doceree.com. Creaegis is a growth investment firm focused on digital and technology businesses with a team history of investing in some of the digital pioneers in India and the US. The firm recently invested in companies such as Kale Logistics (Enterprise SaaS), Zopper (InsurTech) and Medikabazaar (HealthTech). To learn more, visit creaegis.in. Eight Roads Ventures is a global venture capital firm backed by Fidelity, with offices in India, China, Japan, and UK. Our 50-year history of investing includes partnerships with over 300 healthcare and technology companies. Eight Roads Ventures India healthcare portfolio includes Ashish Life Science, Bicara Therapeutics, Caplin Steriles, Carestack, Cipla Health, Core Diagnostics, Doceree, eKincare, Eywa Pharma, Elucidata, Enzene Biosciences, Enko, Everheal, Immuneel Therapeutics, Laurus Labs, Medwell Ventures, NOCD, Plasmagen Biosciences, Proximie, OZiva, PharmEasy, Richcore Lifesciences, Specsmakers, Spry, Toothsi, Trivitron Healthcare and Ujjala Cygnus. To learn more, visit www.eightroads.com. (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) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) SRV Media Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], September 28: KICK-EV, a pioneering startup based in Maharashtra, is gearing up to make a significant impact this festive season with its exclusive unbeatable 5-year warranty offer on their flagship e-scooter range, 'Smaash'. The company has also announced a strategic partnership with the renowned Lalbaugcha Raja Ganpati Festival, promising to be a game-changer in the electric vehicle industry. KICK-EV has set its sights on establishing around 150 experience centres nationwide by FY23-24. Also Read | Ganesh Visarjan 2023: Amid Chants of Ganpati Bappa Morya, Ganpati Idol Immersion Processions Begin in Mumbai as Devotees Bid Farewell to Their Favourite Deity (Watch Videos). KICK-EV's 'Smaash' e-scooter range has already gained a reputation for its cutting-edge design, advanced technology, trust and exceptional performance. Now, with the introduction of an exclusive 5-year warranty offer, the company is setting new industry standards for reliability and customer confidence. This warranty package reflects KICK-EV's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, making 'Smaash' a compelling choice for eco-conscious consumers. In addition to the exciting warranty offer, KICK-EV has joined hands with the iconic Lalbaugcha Raja Ganpati Festival, one of the most prominent cultural and religious events in Maharashtra. This partnership aims to captivate the hearts and minds of festival-goers and showcase 'Smaash' e-scooters as a symbol of innovation, trust and sustainability. The e-scooters are prominently featured during the festival, creating a buzz and drawing attention from thousands of devotees and visitors with its selfie campaign #FindyourKickEV. Also Read | Adobe Photoshop Web Version Launched Today; Now Users Can Work Online With Some Of Its Popular Features. Sagar Joshi, Founder and CEO, KICK-EV, expressed his enthusiasm about these developments, saying, "We are thrilled to present the exclusive 5-year warranty offer on our 'Smaash' e-scooter range, setting a new benchmark for trust in the electric vehicle industry. Our partnership with Lalbaugcha Raja is an incredible opportunity to connect with masses seeking a reliable & dependable e-scooter without any complications". KICK-EV has established 15 experience centers across the nation. In Maharashtra, you can experience the drive at locations including Dombivali, Pune, Chinchwad, Kharghar, Baramati, Mulund, Solapur, Aurangabad, Badlapur, Chakan. Airoli and Virar. Additionally, KICK-EV has expanded its presence to other regions, including Delhi, Vapi, and Surat in Gujarat. KICK-EV's "Smassh" electric scooter is competitively priced at Rs. 1.75 lakhs, inclusive of all taxes, and comes with a complimentary 5-year after-sales service and warranty covering motor, controller, battery, tires, and more. With an impressive 160 km range powered by a 3.5 kW battery, it can reach a top speed of 75 km/h on a single charge. This extended range helps alleviate concerns about charging infrastructure. The "Smassh" e-scooter boasts unique features such as Cruise Control, Combi Brake System, Front and Rear Disc Brakes, GPS, Alloy Wheels, and Smart Connectivity. Delivery takes 45 days, as each e-scooter is customized to match the consumer's preferences. It's available in six stunning colors: Citrine Yellow, Garnet Red, Iolite Blue, Obsidian Black, Petalite Silver, and Zircon White. KICK-EV's 'Smaash' e-scooters are designed to provide a sustainable and efficient mode of transportation, contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions and air pollution. With their impressive range, innovative features, and now an unbeatable warranty, they are positioned to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle market. KICK-EV, an Indian electric two-wheeler company based in Mumbai (Maharashtra)is a subsidiary of AUTO i CARE, a prominent roadside assistance provider established in 2015. AUTO i CARE's garage aggregator app has affiliated with over 58,000 garages across 1,100 Indian cities. It played a pivotal role in organizing the previously fragmented Roadside Assistance market. In 2020, KICK-EV was formed, signaling a strategic move to diversify its electric vehicle (EV) portfolio with a focus on commuter-centric models. The brand's core philosophy remains centered on delivering robust after-sales services. As we step into FY23-'24, KICK-EV is all set to lead the EV transformation, introducing a range of new electric two-wheelers spanning from 2,000 watts to 5,000 watts across various segments in coming fiscal. This festive season, KICK-EV invites everyone to join them in celebrating innovation, sustainability, and the spirit of festivals. For more information, please visit - https://kickev.com/ (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by SRV Media. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Chhatarpur (Madhya Pradesh) [India], September 28 (ANI): Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday hit out at Shivraj Singh Chouhan-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government over Ujjain minor rape incident saying that they should state what steps have been taken for the security of women. The Samajwadi Party chief was speaking to reporters after having lunch with members of the tribal community at a village in Rajnagar Assembly Constituency here in Chhatarpur district. Also Read | Surat Shocker: Minor Schoolgirl Dies Suddenly After Collapsing in Classroom, Heart Attack Suspected. Yadav said that the incident that happened with the 12-year-old girl is very painful. "Such incidents taking place today are very unfortunate. The government should take strict action. This government should answer what did it for the security of women when they were in power for 20 years...What happened in Manipur? Women were stripped and paraded naked...Data says that Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh are the most unsafe for women...We demand strict action. It is the responsibility of the Government to see that it doesn't happen again," he said. Also Read | Karnataka Bandh: Normal Life Likely To Be Affected in Bengaluru Over Release of Cauvery Water to Tamil Nadu Amid Government's Effort To Minimise Impact. The SP leader was speaking after a 12-year-old girl was raped in Ujjain. The girl was lying in an unconscious state in a pool of her blood in Madhya Pradeshs Ujjain district. She was later helped by Rahul Sharma, a priest. Meanwhile, Ujjain Police are questioning five people who came into contact with the minor girl, as stated by a police official on Thursday. According to Ujjain Superintendent of Police (SP) Sachin Sharma, the incident was reported under limits of Mahakaal police station on September 25. "As soon as we received the information, the girl was immediately taken for a medical examination. The girl was unable to tell about her place, so a counsellor was called to assist. The counsellor interacted with her and confirmed about her situation, SP Sharma said. On medical grounds, a case was registered, and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed for further investigation. The police launched a probe and collected all available technical evidence, based on which an auto driver was taken into custody. During questioning, some crucial facts came to light. Notably, a bloodstain was found in the backseat of the auto-rickshaw. The auto driver confessed that he was with the girl at the time of the incident. Even after this, we continued our investigation, and we have managed to determine that the girl is from Satna, the SP said. "Almost all the evidence has been collected, and more details on the matter will be disclosed soon. Currently, five individuals who came in contact with the minor girl after the incident are being questioned," he added. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Jaipur (Rajasthan) [India], September 28 (ANI): Bharatiya Janata Party National President JP Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday night reached in Jaipur to chair a meeting with the core group of Rajasthan BJP to discuss the upcoming assembly elections in the state. According to party sources, during this visit, Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP President JP Nadda will hold a meeting of the BJP Rajasthan Core Group to strategize about the elections and gather feedback from state officials. In the meeting, ministers and MPs are expected to discuss about contesting assembly elections. Also Read | German Electric Car Home-charging Grants Sell out in 1 Day. BJP National President JP Nadda and Home Minister Amit Shah arrived at Jaipur Airport around 7 PM via a special flight. From the airport, both leaders headed directly to the state BJP headquarters, where the meeting of the BJP Core Committee was organized from 8 PM onwards. During the meeting, both leaders discussed ticket distribution for the upcoming assembly elections and analyzed the political dynamics in the state. Additionally, they also reviewed the feedback received during the recent BJP Parivartan Yatra (BJP Transformation Journey). Also Read | Delhi Shocker: Mentally Challenged Man Tied to Pole, Beaten to Death on Suspicion of Theft in Sunder Nagri, Seven Apprehended (Watch Video). "Let us tell you that after a few days, there will be a meeting of the Central Election Committee in Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be present in the meeting. The names of C and D category candidates will be discussed, after which BJP will release the list, " said the sources. Notably, the meeting takes place after BJP fielded seven Lok Sabha members in Madhya Pradesh, including Union ministers Faggan Singh Kulaste, Prahlad Singh Patel and Narendra Singh Tomar. The BJP also fielded party general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya. The 2023 Rajasthan Legislative Assembly election is expected to be held in or before December this year. The Congress party holds the majority in the Rajasthan Assembly, which comprises 200 seats, with Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot leading the state government. The previous assembly elections in the state were held in December 2018, when the Indian National Congress emerged as the single-largest party with 100 seats, falling short by 1 seat to secure the majority mark. The Congress, however, formed the state government after an alliance with the Bahujan Samaj Party with Congress leader Ashok Gehlot becoming the Chief Minister. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Jaipur, September 28: Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP president J P Nadda held night-long discussions with the party's Rajasthan leadership here on a range of issues about the upcoming assembly elections. The meeting began at a hotel late on Wednesday evening and continued till 2 am, party sources said. The discussions were held amid a buzz that two central ministers might be asked to contest the upcoming polls. The speculation follows the BJP's decision to name three Union ministers and four MPs in its second list of candidates for poll-bound Madhya Pradesh. Shah and Nadda arrived in Jaipur on a special plane on Wednesday evening and headed to a hotel near the airport where the core committee meeting started. Party sources said that Shah and Nadda first held a meeting with former chief minister Vasundhara Raje that lasted for around 15 minutes. It was followed by a meeting with senior leaders in which constituencies and the party's election strategy were discussed. Feedback on the four 'Parivartan Yatras' that the BJP held recently was also discussed. Rahul Gandhi Predicts Congress's Likely Performance in Rajasthan, Telangana, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh Assembly Elections (Watch Video) Union minister and the party's election in-charge for Rajasthan Pralhad Joshi, co-in-charge Nitin Patel, BJP's in-charge for Rajasthan Arun Singh, state unit president C P Joshi, Union Ministers Gajendra Singh, Arjun Meghwal, Kailash Chaudhary, leader of opposition in Assembly Rajendra Rathore, deputy leader of opposition Satish Poonia and other leaders were present at the meeting, the sources said. The meeting continued for around three hours. Poonia and MP Rajyavardhan Rathore were the first to leave the venue after the first round. Nadda and Shah held the next round of meeting with the BJP's national general secretary (organisation) B L Santosh, Union minister Pralhad Joshi, Nitin Patel, Arun Singh, Kuldeep Vishnoi and Vijaya Rahatkar, among others, the party sources said. "The leaders held discussions on the assembly constituencies and brainstormed on ways to win the maximum number of seats in Mewar, Vagad, Shekhawati, Hadauti and Marwar regions and in eastern Rajasthan in the assembly and Lok Sabha elections," a source said. "In the meeting, a clear message was sent out that the party organisation is supreme and all have to work together to ensure victory of the party in the elections." Some leaders said that ticket distribution and other poll-related issues were discussed in the meeting. Rajasthan Assembly Election 2023: BJP Chalks Out ABCD Formula Based on Winnability in Respective Seats Sources in the BJP's Rajasthan unit said Union Jal Shakti minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal may be fielded in the assembly polls, along with some other MPs. However, the party leaders who came out of the hotel refrained from sharing details of the meeting with the media. Convener of the election management committee Narayan Panchariya said the party's authorised person will share details of the meeting with the media. Nadda and Shah will meet local RSS leaders on Thursday morning, party sources said. There is speculation that senior RSS pracharak Prakash Chand may be given certain responsibilities in the upcoming Assembly election. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], September 28 (ANI): Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) Chairman Ajendra Ajay on Wednesday met Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi and sought Finance Minister's cooperation in the work of beautification and infrastructural development of temples through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). In a meeting with Finance Minister, BKTC chairman said that reconstruction work is being done rapidly in Kedarnath and Badrinath. Also Read | German Electric Car Home-charging Grants Sell out in 1 Day. "Today, during the meeting with the Union Minister at the Finance Ministry in North Block, Ajendra said that reconstruction work is being done rapidly in Kedarnath and Badrinath under the master plan under the inspiration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami," an official statement said. "He informed the Minister that BKTC is working for the development of temples of historical and mythological importance under its jurisdiction," an official statement added. Also Read | Delhi Shocker: Mentally Challenged Man Tied to Pole, Beaten to Death on Suspicion of Theft in Sunder Nagri, Seven Apprehended (Watch Video). BKTC Chairman Ajendra also invited Finance Minister to visit Badrinath and Kedarnath Dham. "In this sequence, the work of expansion and beautification of Omkareshwar Temple located in Ukhimath, the winter worship place of Lord Kedarnath, has been started. Plans for the development of Triyuginarayan, famous as the marriage venue of Lord Shiva and Parvati, and Shri Tunganath, the highest Shiva temple in the world, are also being prepared soon. He also invited the Finance Minister to visit Badrinath and Kedarnath Dham, which she accepted," an official statement said. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, Sep 28 (PTI) A court here has sought an explanation from the official concerned as to why the notice issued to three Delhi police personnel was not executed in a case related to a celebratory firing incident during a New Year's Eve party at former Bihar MLA Raju Singh's farmhouse here in which a woman was killed. Special Judge Vikas Dhull also issued fresh summons to Inspectors Shailendra Singh and C L Meena and Sub-Inspector Manjeet Kumar, and directed them to appear before the court on October 7. Also Read | Uttar Pradesh Shocker: Woman Poisoned to Death by In-Laws for Dowry in Muzaffarnagar, Probe Underway. Issue notice to Incharge, VB (Vigilance Bureau), to appear in person on the next date of hearing and explain as to why summons sent to Inspector Shailendra Singh, IO/Inspector CL Meena, and Sub-Inspector Manjeet Kumar for today were not executed, the judge said. The judge noted in an order passed on September 25 that the notice sent earlier was not received back. Also Read | Mumbai Police Save Man From Malad Doing Online Search for 'Ways To Commit Suicide' After Being Alerted by Interpol. The court, meanwhile, adjourned the arguments on whether to frame the charges against the accused for the next date of hearing after the public prosecutor sought time. At the previous hearing, defence advocate Nitesh Rana had told the court that the prosecution lacked evidence to prosecute the accused. The accused were booked under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Arms Act. The police later added Section 302 (murder) of the IPC, which is punishable with a maximum term of death sentence, to the FIR after the victim succumbed to bullet injuries. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], September 28 (ANI): Two persons have been arrested for allegedly extorting over Rs 10 lakh from a woman after threatening to upload her "indecent photographs" on social media, police said on Thursday. The accused have been identified as Sourav (27), a resident of Bhalswa Dairy, and Maneesh (22), a resident of Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh. Also Read | Ganesh Visarjan 2023: Hyderabad Cops Steal Limelight by Joining Dance at Ganesh Immersion Procession; Videos Go Viral. As per police, the woman filed a complaint on the Cyber Portal regarding extortion by the two men. During the course of the investigation, it was learnt that the alleged persons are operating from the Badli and Bhalaswa areas of Delhi, police said, adding that the duo were apprehended from their residences. Also Read | Punjab: SAD Leader and Former Sarpanch Shot Dead by Bike-Borne Assailants in Hoshiarpur. "On sustained questioning, Sourav disclosed that he had made a fake social media account and used it to send friend requests to girls. After that, he used to take their indecent photographs. Thereafter, he used to blackmail them under threat to publicize their photos on social media. In the present case, he has done the same and extorted around Rs 10.5 lakhs from the complainant. He received the extorted money in his bank account as well as in his associates bank account," a Delhi Police officer said. Police's investigation into the matter is underway. Further information is awaited. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Armenian opposition to stage rally in central Yerevan on Sat The Armenian opposition plans to stage a rally in downtown Yerevan again. "We will rally on Republic Square at 5 p.m. September 30," a statement by the opposition National Committee said. The opposition began a series of protests on September 19 to demand the prime minister's resignation in the wake of Azerbaijan's operation in Karabakh, which caused an influx of refugees. The opposition cancelled the protests on September 26 due to the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh. "The influx of our compatriots from Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenia continues. Both our numerous compatriots and the National Committee are involved in the cause of overcoming a humanitarian disaster," the committee said then. New Delhi [India], September 28 (ANI): Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday offered prayers at a Ganesh pandal in Delhis Netaji Subhash Place on the occasion of the ten day Ganesh Chaturthi festival. Rajnath Singh performed an arti on the occasion and sought blessings from Lord Ganesha. Also Read | German Electric Car Home-charging Grants Sell out in 1 Day. Ganesh Chaturthi, a 10-day festival that starts on the fourth day of the Hindu lunisolar calendar month 'Bhadrapada', started on September 19 this year. This auspicious 10-day festival started with 'Chaturthi' and will end on 'Anantha Chaturdashi'. Also Read | Delhi Shocker: Mentally Challenged Man Tied to Pole, Beaten to Death on Suspicion of Theft in Sunder Nagri, Seven Apprehended (Watch Video). It is celebrated with much fanfare in Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra with lakhs of devotees converging into mandals to seek blessing from Lord Ganesh. For the festivities, people bring Lord Ganesh idols to their homes, observe fasts, prepare mouth-watering delicacies, and visit pandals during the festival. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Kolkata, Sep 28 (PTI) People of Kolkata, especially the ones living in the New Town area, are likely to get various commodities such as medicines, groceries and food delivered to their doorsteps with the help of drones soon, as a Delhi-based logistics solution provider is planning such a move with the help of local authorities. Capt Eshaan Khullar, the associate vice president of Skye Air Mobility Pvt Ltd, said the company has already made agreements with 10 -12 housing societies in New Town for the service as drones will help reduce the time taken in conventional ways of delivering goods. Also Read | Ganesh Visarjan 2023: Teenager Drowns at Mumbai's Juhu Beach During Ganpati Idol Immersion, Body Recovered From Arabian Sea. We want to start with New Town and then move to Salt Lake and other parts of Kolkata, besides going to the rural parts where connectivity is an issue, where going from point A to point B is a problem, Khullar told PTI on the sidelines of a presentation programme. He also said that the company is looking forward to partnering with various authorities such as the New Town Kolkata Development Authority (NKDA) to enable drone deliveries in housing societies across Kolkata and West Bengal. Also Read | Manipur Students Killing: Protests Continue in State, Cars Burnt, Two BJP Offices Attacked in Thoubal District. "Tie-ups with societies are needed to create infrastructure. We create skypods where we drop the packages. These are kind of mailboxes placed in any society," Khullar said. The drone service can be very useful for carrying samples of pathological tests, for delivering life-saving drugs. This will be very useful when every minute counts, NKDA chairman Debasish Sen said after attending the presentation programme on Wednesday. He said that police often need to create a green corridor for various medical reasons so that a patient or a product can reach its destinations fast. Khullar said the company hopes to start delivery in New Town within two to three months and full-fledged operations are likely to begin within six months. However, orders for delivery by drone have to be made through food aggregators and e-commerce sites with which the company has a tie-up. Drones are used with permission from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and its associated agencies, he said. The company said its drones are designed to deliver packages with weights ranging from 500 gms to 50 kg. The company is focused on streamlining drone deliveries as a mainstream logistics solution for healthcare, e-commerce, quick commerce, agri-commodity and other industries, Khullar said. The company said that it has earlier also conducted the World's longest BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) medicine delivery flight with Flipkart Health of 104 km between Baruipur and Medinipur in West Bengal, reducing the delivery time by 80 per cent compared to conventional means. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, Sep 28 (PTI) The Delhi Police has booked the owner of a women's paying guest facility in northwest Delhi's Mukherjee Nagar area that caught fire on Wednesday evening and 35 people, including a four-year-old girl were rescued. The deputy commissioner of police (northeast) said the five persons who were admitted to a hospital after inhaling fumes were out of danger and they would be discharged soon. Also Read | NIA Chargesheet Reveals Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Gangster Arsh Dalla's Chilling Plot; Lured Shooters for Terror Acts in Exchange for Canadian Dreams. "We have registered an FIR against the PG owner under IPC sections 336 (act endangering life or personal safety of others), 337 (causes hurt to any person by doing any act so rashly or negligently as to endanger human life or the personal safety of others), 338 (causing grievous hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others), and 34 (common intentions)," the police officer said. While the fire department sent 20 fire tenders to the site, only eight could reach the spot because of traffic congestion and narrow lanes. All inmates of the PG were safely rescued and there was no casualty, said a Delhi Police officer. Also Read | Uttar Pradesh Shocker: Nine-Year-Old Boy Rapes Eight-Year-Old Girl in Lucknow, Case Registered. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Mumbai, September 28: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Ratnagiri and yellow for Mumbai, Thane, Raigad and Palghar districts for September 28. "Heavy rainfall alongwith thunderstorm, lightning and gusty winds very likely over isolated places of Ratnagiri on Thursday," IMD said in its forecast. The Weather department predicted thunderstorm accompanied with lightning and gusty winds (30-40kmph) over one or two places of Mumbai and Palghar. Lalbaugcha Raja 2023 Visarjan Route: Details of Immersion Path Revealed; Mumbai Traffic Police Issue Traffic Advisory Ahead of Anant Chaturdashi "Heavy rainfall and thunderstorm with lightning over isolated places of Thane and Raigad," it said. Earlier on Wednesday, the IMD announced that conditions are becoming favourable for the withdrawal of southeast monsoon from the country from September 25. Talking to ANI, IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra informed that there was a delay of about 8 days in the withdrawal of the southeast monsoon. Lata Mangeshkar Birth Anniversary: PM Narendra Modi Pays Tributes to Singing Legend on Her 94th Birth Anniversary Earlier on Tuesday, the IMD said that the conditions are becoming favourable for further withdrawal of southwest monsoon from some more parts of northwest and adjoining western India in the next two to three days. India has three cropping seasons -- summer, Kharif and Rabi. Crops sown during June-July and harvested in October-November are kharif. Since June 1, total rainfall in India has been 6 per cent lower at 805.3 mm against the normal of 853.4, IMD data showed. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Veraval (Gujarat) [India], September 28 (ANI): Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chief S Somnath on Thursday offered prayers at the famed Somnath Mahadev temple.Somnaths visit follows the success of Indias mission to the moon, Chandrayaan-3. "It's our good luck as it was our effort to soft-land (Chandrayaan 3) on the Moon. It is the blessing of Lord Somnath that we were able to accomplish the mission. We have to work on other missions as well so we need strength and blessings," said the ISRO chief after his visit to the Somnath Mahadev temple. Also Read | German Economy Set to Shrink in 2023, Experts Say. Following the triumphant soft landing of Chandrayaan 3 on the lunar South Pole, the ISRO chief had visited the Pournami Kavu Bhadrakali temple in Kerala. He has also visited the Goddess Chengalamma temple in Sullurpeta town in Andhra Pradesh among others. Asked about his visits to temples Somnath had earlier told reporters at the Pournamikavu Bhadrakali Temple in Kerala said that science and spirituality are two different realms and that both need not be mixed. Also Read | Rahul Gandhi Visits Furniture Market in Delhi's Kirti Nagar, Interacts With Carpenters (See Pics). I explore the moon, I explore the inner space. It is a part of the journey of his life to explore science and spirituality, he said adding that he goes to many temples in his quest to find the meaning of our existence and our journey in this cosmos. "I come to many temples, read scriptures, and try to find the meaning of art and our journey in this cosmos. It is a part of the culture that we built to explore the inner and outer self," he said "For the outer I do Science and for the inner self I come to temples," Somnath told ANI after offering prayers at Pournamikavu Bhadrakali Temple in Thiruvananthapuram on August 27. Meanwhile on Wednesday addressing the 50th national management convention of All India Management Association (AIMA) the ISRO Chairman said he sees substantial potential in the Indian space during its Amritkaal, particularly in the application, services, and manufacturing domain. When we reach our Amritkaal, the share of our economy in space will be substantially higher and it will come out in the secondary and tertiary sectors, and not by building rockets and satellites but by building applications, services, and manufacturing in India, Somanath said. He cited examples such as hyperlocal weather update services, map services, remote sensing, and communication applications, among others which have tremendous use cases. The ISRO chief has also announced the countrys mission to Venus. He said that payloads of the future mission to Venus have already been developed. More recent Venus missions include ESAs Venus Express (which orbited from 2006 until 2016) and Japans Akatsuki Venus Climate Orbiter (orbiting since 2016). NASAs Parker Solar Probe has made multiple flybys of Venus. On February 9, 2022, NASA announced the spacecraft had captured its first visible light images of the surface of Venus from space during its February 2021 flyby. ISRO has also launched the Aditya-L1 Mission to study the Sun in unprecedented detail. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Harda, Sep 28 (PTI) Bharatiya Janata Party Rajya Sabha MP Dinesh Sharma on Thursday said the lives of the poor in the country changed for the better after 70 years of Independence due to their basic necessities being fulfilled under the Narendra Modi government. The former Uttar Pradesh deputy chief minister was addressing the party's booth workers in more than half a dozen 'shakti kendras' here. Also Read | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Names of Several Uttar Pradesh Ministers Under Discussion for General Polls. "The lives of the poor have become happier as their basic necessities were fulfilled for the first time after 70 years of Independence. In the upcoming polls, people will vote for a BJP government in the state for nation building and will also take a vow to give Prime Minister Modi a third term in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls," he said. Asserting that there was a one-sided atmosphere in favour of the BJP in MP, he claimed the Congress sowed the seeds of casteism, which will be given a befitting reply by the voters since they want "development politics". Also Read | Lalbaugcha Raja 2023 Visarjan: Devotees Bid Adieu to Lord Ganesha Idol From Lalbaugcha Raja in Mumbai Being Brought for Immersion (Watch Video). Sharma said Modi was not just a name but a "revolution of change" and an "institution in itself". "Major leaders of the world are following him. This is the golden period of Bharat," he claimed. He said PM Modi had ensured the passage of the bill earmarking 33 per cent seats in Lok Sabha and state Assemblies for women and asked party men to ensure they get more responsibilities. MP agriculture and farmers welfare minister Kamal Patel, who is a heavyweight from Harda, also guided party workers. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Imphal, Sep 28 (PTI) The Manipur government on Thursday constituted a committee to verify complaints of alleged use of excessive force on protesters, mainly students, by security forces here over the last two days, an official order said. The order issued by the DGP said, "There have been various reports/allegations of use of excess force by the security forces to maintain law and order over the last few days in Imphal area." Also Read | Surat Shocker: Minor Schoolgirl Dies Suddenly After Collapsing in Classroom, Heart Attack Suspected. The committee will be headed by IGP (Administration) K Jayanta, the order said, adding that it will "submit the report at the earliest." Violent protests rocked Manipur's capital for two days on Tuesday and Wednesday as thousands of students protested the kidnapping and killing of two youths, pictures of whose bodies had gone viral. Also Read | Karnataka Bandh: Normal Life Likely To Be Affected in Bengaluru Over Release of Cauvery Water to Tamil Nadu Amid Government's Effort To Minimise Impact. On Tuesday night, a clash occurred between RAF personnel and locals over the murder of the duo, prompting the law enforcers to lob tear gas shells and fire rubber bullets at the agitators and baton-charge them, leaving 45 of the protesters, mostly students, injured. On Wednesday, around 20 protesters were injured in similar clashes with security forces. Meanwhile, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has condemned the "brutal act of RAF and security forces" against student protesters on Wednesday and termed it as a "violation of human rights." Two school students were badly injured after being hit by "multiple pellet bullets" fired by security forces during the students' protest rally against the killing of the two youths. One student had more than thirty pellets lodged on the back of his head while another had his shoulder torn open after being hit by a lethal weapon, hospital officials told reporters. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Imphal (Manipur) [India], September 28 (ANI): Taking cognisance of reports about allegations of use of 'excess force' by security forces during the maintenance of law and order in the last few days in the Imphal area, Director General of Police Manipur Rajiv Singh on Thursday ordered to form a committee to look into the issues and asked it to submit a report at the earliest. "There have been various reports/allegations of the use of excess force by the Security forces during the maintenance of law & order situations in the last few days in the Imphal area. To verify such complaints/allegations, a committee is being formed to look into the issues and submit the report at the earliest," read the order issued by the Director General Of Police Manipur on Thursday. Also Read | Mumbai Horror: Mother, Her Boyfriend Arrested For Torture and Sex Assault of Teenager. The Committee wil be headed by K Jayanta Singh, Inspector General of Police (Administration), Manipur and assisted by Th Sanatomba Singh, AAIG(Adm). Fresh protests erupted in Manipur on Monday after a video showing the bodies of two students who reportedly went missing in July went viral on social media. Also Read | Jharkhand Blast: One CRPF Personnel Killed After IED Explodes During Combing Operation Against Maoists in West Singhbhum. The government responded by re-imposing the suspension of internet services for five days as a precautionary measure and announced that all schools in the state would be closed till Friday. Manipur's Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Wednesday strongly denounced the alleged "kidnapping and killing" of two students, while pledging to deliver justice to the state's residents. Meanwhile, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) will be providing security to the team of the Central Bureau of Investigation which is visiting violence-hit areas in Manipur. "Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has been given charge of security of CBI teams visiting various locations in Manipur for investigation purposes and collection of evidence," a senior official told ANI. On Wednesday, a CBI team led by Special Director Ajay Bhatnagar reached Imphal to investigate the incident. In the cases registered or transferred to the CBI, teams have to visit the scene of the crime, recreate the scene, collect forensic evidence, and send it to the Central Forensic Science Laboratory. "To ensure speedy investigation and keeping the safety of CBI officials on priority, CRPF personnel will accompany them during their visits in violence-hit areas for investigation purposes," the official added. At present, CBI has registered 11 FIRs, including the viral video of two young tribal women paraded naked. The investigation of all the cases is underway. Manipur has been witnessing violence since May 3, following the protests against the High Court's order asking the state government to consider the inclusion of the Meitei community in the category of Scheduled Tribes (ST). (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Chandigarh, Sep 28 (PTI) Members of the Indian Minorities Foundation joined the Muslim community in mass prayers here before taking out a religious procession to mark Milad-un-Nabi, the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad. A statement said the foundation, whose convener is Satnam Singh Sandhu, also organised a panel discussion on "Inclusive Living -- A Sacred Teaching of Prophet Muhammad for Humanity", in which spiritual leaders, scholars, poets, academicians of the Muslim community from all over India participated. Also Read | Surat Shocker: Minor Schoolgirl Dies Suddenly After Collapsing in Classroom, Heart Attack Suspected. Author and activist Faiyaz Ahmad Fyzie, a Pasmanda, Maulana Kalbe Rushaid Rizvi, poet and president of Sufi Foundation Moradabad Kashish Warsi, Sufi Islamic Board president Mansoor Khan and activist Mohammed Meraj Rayeeh took part in the panel discussion organised by the foundation, it said. Faiyaz Ahmad claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "sabka saath, sabka vikas, sabka vishwaas, sabka prayas" has ensured benefits of government policies and development reach every section of society, especially the marginalized and socially deprived people who are also the basis of the Prophet's teachings. Also Read | Karnataka Bandh: Normal Life Likely To Be Affected in Bengaluru Over Release of Cauvery Water to Tamil Nadu Amid Government's Effort To Minimise Impact. During the deliberations, Pasmanda activist Muhammad Meraj Rayeeh said Muslims have contributed largely to India's development. "For India to continue on the path of progress, it is important that all communities work together with a spirit of 'Indians first' before being a member of any community. We must unite and strengthen Indian unity and integrity," he said, lauding the government's emphasis on uplifting Pasmanda (backward) community among Muslims. Prime Minister Modi has ensured that government policies should be over and above the politics of appeasement and that their benefits reach all Indians, said Sandhu. "The economic benefits under all the schemes such as PM Awaas Yojna, PM Ujjwala Yojna, PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna, PM Mudra Yojna have been conferred to every section of society cutting across the barriers of religion, caste, gender or community," he said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Indore (Madhya Pradesh) [India], September 28 (ANI): A National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) member Dr Divya Gupta on Thursday reached MTH Hospital in Madhya Pradeshs Indore to inquire about the health of Ujjain minor rape survivor. During this, Gupta also discussed with the doctors and police about the conditions and statements of the victim, who is undergoing treatment at MTH Hospital in the city. Also Read | Jharkhand Blast: One CRPF Personnel Killed After IED Explodes During Combing Operation Against Maoists in West Singhbhum. The NCPCR member Gupta told ANI, After hearing the incident that happened with the girl, I got goosebumps. It is an incident that brings shame to the society. I have watched the condition of the child where she is undergoing treatment, MTH Hospital. Over 48 hours have passed and she is recovering well. Today, she has also drunk coconut water. The suspects in the incident have been detained by Ujjain Police and are being questioned. The parents of the victim have also been traced and they are also being called, she said. Also Read | Worms in Mid-Day Meal: Goa Government Suspends Licence of Self-Help Group After Earthworms Found in Three Schools in Priol. The way Congress is doing politics in this matter, I am surprised by their (Congress) mental state. Instead of pointing fingers at and condemning such people (Criminal minded) in the society, it is a bad mentality of Congress to point fingers at the government and the administration, Gupta said. Police and a counsellor are with the girl. Police said that the victim only wanted to recover and avoided talking about that incident. The girl was recovering and better medically but she was emotionally still in trauma and it would take time to heal, the NCPCR member added. Meanwhile, talking about the accused Dr Gupta said, I have no words for the kind of brutality that has happened to this girl. Now, the society will have to decide what should be done with such criminals. We and the fast track court know very well what punishment should be given to such accused but now society has to stand. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) If zones of contaminated areas change due to Chornobyl accident, affected persons to be provided with adequate social protection PM in response to petition If the boundaries of zones of radioactively contaminated territories are changed as a result of the accident at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant, the affected citizens will be provided with adequate social protection in accordance with the law, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said in response to the petition. "As of September 27, 2023, the Ministry of Ecology is considering the issue of carrying out a new dosimetric certification. Currently, the draft resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers "On approval of the list of settlements classified as zones of radioactive contamination as a result of the Chornobyl disaster" has not been received by the Cabinet of Ministers," Shmyhal said in his response to the petition. The Prime Minister said that today, in Ukraine there are more than 1.6 million citizens affected by the Chornobyl disaster, who, in accordance with established categories, are provided with benefits and compensation, regardless of their registered place of residence, including in areas of radioactive contamination zones. "In the event of changes in the boundaries of zones of radioactively contaminated territories, affected citizens will be provided with adequate social protection in accordance with the law," he said. As reported, on September 12, a petition on the website of the Cabinet of Ministers calling not to remove settlements from the category of those affected by the accident at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant received the necessary number of votes for consideration. New Delhi, Sep 28 (PTI) The Afghan embassy in India has purportedly come out with a communication on closing down its operations and New Delhi is examining its authenticity, sources said on Thursday. The embassy has been headed by Ambassador Farid Mamundzay and it is learnt that he is currently in London. Also Read | Government Introduces Key Amendments in Cable Television Network Rules, Procedure for Renewal of Multi-System Operators' Registration. Mamundzay was appointed by the previous Ashraf Ghani government and he has been operating as the Afghan envoy even after the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in August 2021. The Afghan embassy in New Delhi has purportedly issued a communication on this issue, the sources in the Indian government said on reports of the embassy closing down its operations. Also Read | Tripura Shocker: Woman Dies by Suicide After Poisoning Two Kids in Khowai District, Probe On. "The authenticity of the communication and its contents are being examined," one of the sources said. "This is in the context of the ambassador being out of India for the past many months, a steady departure of diplomats to third countries reportedly after receiving asylum as well as reports of infighting amongst the embassy personnel," the source said. It is learnt that the embassy has sent a communication to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on its decision to close down operations in the next couple of days. There was no immediate response from the embassy on the matter. In April-May, the embassy was rocked by a power struggle in the wake of reports of the Taliban appointing a charge d'affaires to head the mission, replacing Mamundzay. Following the episode, the embassy came out with a statement that there was no change in its leadership. The tussle for power had erupted after Qadir Shah, who was working as the trade councillor at the embassy since 2020, wrote to the MEA in late April claiming that he was appointed as the charge d'affaires at the embassy by the Taliban. India is yet to recognise the Taliban set up and has been pitching for the formation of a truly inclusive government in Kabul, besides insisting that Afghan soil must not be used for any terrorist activities against any country. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], September 28 (ANI): Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) has always been and will remain a part of India. Indian Muslims are determined to reclaim PoK from Pakistan at all costs, a sentiment echoed by the nationalist Muslim organization, Muslim National Forum. The Forum's spokesperson, Shahid Saeed, stated that through the Muslim National Forum, there is an unprecedented nationwide movement, public awareness campaign, and diplomatic efforts underway to reclaim PoK. Also Read | Anant Chaturdashi 2023: More Than 2,450 Idols Immersed by 3 PM Across Mumbai During Ganesh Festival (Watch Video). Shahid Saeed disclosed that as a part of these efforts, the Muslim National Forum is running the "Tiranga for PoK" campaign. He pointed out that the day is not far when Pakistan, under its own weight, will crumble. The country's economic situation is such that it cannot sustain its various provinces for long. Now, the time has come for India to take solid political and diplomatic steps towards the realization of a united India. The nation's citizens stand with our esteemed Prime Minister. Also Read | Kerala High Court Quashes Proceedings Under POCSO Act After Man Accused of Sexual Abuse Marries Victim. The Forum's National Coordinator and a member of the Minority Education Institution Council, Shahid Akhtar, said that a peaceful protest march against Pakistan will be organized in Delhi on October 1. The march will start from the Red Fort, go up to Gurudwara Sis Ganj and then return to the Red Fort. The route will include Digambar Jain Temple, Gauri Shankar Temple, Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, Sunehri Masjid, and St. Stephen's Church. After Delhi, over 100 such movements will be organized across the country. The Forum's National Coordinator, Mohammad Afzal, mentioned that from August 9 to August 30, 2023, the Forum had spearheaded the "Tiranga for PoK" campaign in Kashmir, which was highly successful. Afzal emphasized that they received spontaneous support from ordinary Kashmiris. Every Indian Kashmiri sincerely wishes for PoK to be reclaimed from Pakistan and annexed back to India. Afzal added that the protest will witness participation from various communities, including Sunni, Shia, Pashto, Shina, Hunza, Manhas, Gujjar, Bakarwal, and Sikhs. The head of the Forum's Women's Wing, Shalini Ali, said that women from all over the country are actively joining this campaign, shoulder to shoulder. She emphasized that women have played a crucial role in all campaigns run by the Muslim National Forum to date, and this time too, they will participate with full vigour, enthusiasm, and spirit. Kashmiri women are also taking part in the protest and have resolved that PoK was, is, and will always remain a part of India. No power in the world can separate it from us. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Chennai, Sep 28 (PTI) Agricultural scientist M S Swaminathan's funeral will be held with police honours, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin said here on Thursday. Hailing Swaminathan's remarkable contributions to sustainable food security, Stalin said the agriculture icon has served the nation with the twin goals of eradication of hunger and food security for about 75 years. Also Read | India's External Debt Edges Past USD 629 Billion Mark, Debt-GDP Ratio Declined by 18.6%, Shows RBI Data. An official release here said Stalin has ordered police honours for the scientist's funeral. "In order to honour Swaminathan, who has made immeasurable contributions as a globally acclaimed scientist in the field of environment and agriculture, final tributes (homage) will be paid to him with police honours," the release said. According to a spokesperson of MS Swaminathan Research Foundation, the cremation would be held here on September 30. Also Read | Ujjain Rape Case: 'She Was in Half-Naked State, Bleeding', Says Priest Rahul Sharma Who Helped Minor Rape Survivor (Watch Video). (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Aligarh (UP), Sep 28 (PTI) An eight-year-old girl who was found dead at her neighbour's house was raped before being strangled, the post-mortem report has revealed, police said on Thursday. Two men have been arrested in connection with the case, they added. Also Read | India's External Debt Edges Past USD 629 Billion Mark, Debt-GDP Ratio Declined by 18.6%, Shows RBI Data. The minor's mutilated body stuffed in a gunny bag was recovered from the accused's house in the Kotwali police station area on Wednesday, officials had said. "A panel of three doctors who conducted the postmortem of the eight-year-old girl has confirmed that the victim was sexually assaulted and later strangulated to death," Senior Superintendent of Police Kalanidhi Naithani said on Thursday. Also Read | German Economy Set to Shrink in 2023, Experts Say. Two accused -- Suhaleyheen (20) and his brother Rizwan (18) -- were arrested on Wednesday and sent to jail on Thursday. Their third brother, who is a minor, was also held but let go after questioning, the police said. Suhaleyheen, the main accused, has confessed to the crime, they added. He told the police that he had given Rs 20 to the girl to purchase 'paan masala' and a packet of chips, the police said. When the girl returned to his house with the items, Suhaleyheen allegedly lured her inside the house, raped her and strangled her. Later, with Rizwan's help, he placed the body inside a gunny bag, they added. A murder case was lodged against the duo on Wednesday and based on the findings of the post-mortem report, they have now also been booked for rape along with relevant sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the police said. The girl went missing from her house on Tuesday. The breakthrough came after police scanned CCTV footage, which showed her entering her neighbour's house, the SSP had said on Wednesday. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Chandigarh, Sep 28 (PTI) Electronic component maker CDIL has become the first company in India to start manufacturing Silicon carbide semiconductors for use in high power-consuming technology products. While speaking on the sidelines of the launch of the company's new surface mount semiconductor packaging line, CDIL Executive President and Chief Operating Officer Pankaj Gulati told PTI that the company has started exporting Silicon Carbide (SiC) components to China, the US, Europe and Australia. Also Read | Punjab Farmers Begin Three-Day Rail Roko Protest Demanding Financial Package for Flood-Caused Losses and Debt Waiver (Watch Video). "We are the first company in India to have started manufacturing of Silicon Carbide semiconductors. We have started shipping them to China, US, Europe and Australia," Gulati said. CDIL operates manufacturing facilities and a reliability lab in Mohali and Delhi, serving industries with a focus on the automotive, defence, and aerospace sectors. Also Read | Lalbaugcha Raja 2023 Visarjan Route: Details of Immersion Path Revealed; Mumbai Traffic Police Issue Traffic Advisory Ahead of Anant Chaturdashi. The company's expansion has received incentive support from the Centre under the Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS). The company has initiated the first phase of production of 50 million Silicon Carbide components with a surface-mount packaging line and plans to ramp up it to 100 million devices. The addition of new assembly lines has increased CDIL's total capacity to 600 million electronic components annually. Gulati said the company's second phase will also be under the SPECS scheme, and for third phase, it will apply under a plan announced by India Semicon Mission, which offers up to 50 per cent incentives. He said the company earlier had around 60-65 per cent of business from exports, but with the increase in local manufacturing, the share of domestic business has gone up and exports now account for 40 per cent of total revenue. The company at the event signed an agreement with the Semi-Conductor Laboratory (SCL) to make Mohali an end-to-end semiconductor hub in the country. Ministry of Electronics and IT (Meity), Joint Secretary, Amitesh Sinha at the event said India still has much to catch up, with a projected surge in demand to approximately 110 billion by 2030. He said MeitY wants to establish SCL as the premier research and development hub for semiconductor components and cultivate a dynamic ecosystem in semiconductor manufacturing and assembly in Mohali. "As CDIL and SCL join hands for knowledge exchange, India can look forward to more indigenous chip manufacturing for the world in the future," Sinha said. CDIL General Manager Prithvideep Singh said the company plans to add capacity of another 100 million devices in the next 12-18 months. "Even though SiC devices are notoriously hard to manufacture at scale, we have spent effort and investment to master them," Singh said. With SiC, the company is targeting sectors like electric vehicles, solar and power electronics, he noted. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Amethi (UP), Sep 28 (PTI) A case has been registered against local Congress leader Deepak Singh here for allegedly making derogatory remarks against Union Minister Smriti Irani. On the complaint of BJP leader Keshav Singh, the case was registered against Singh in Gauriganj police station area for his remarks against the local MP, Superintendent of Police, Ilamaran said on Thursday. Also Read | Lalbaugcha Raja 2023 Visarjan Route: Details of Immersion Path Revealed; Mumbai Traffic Police Issue Traffic Advisory Ahead of Anant Chaturdashi. Singh held a two-day dharna against the suspension of licence of Sanjay Gandhi Hospital here which ended on Wednesday evening with a candle march. A decision to resume the dharna outside the office of the chief medical officer here will be taken after the Allahabad High Court hears the plea against suspension of licence of the facility on October 3, party sources said. Also Read | New Continent Found? Scientists Discover Zealandia, Eighth Continent Missing for Nearly 375 Years. However, the dharna by employees and doctors of the Sanjay Gandhi Hospital against suspension of its license continued on Thursday. Sanjay Gandhi Employees Union president Sanjay Singh said they have faith in the judiciary but dharna of employees and doctors will continue till the hospital resumes functioning. He said people of Amethi and other adjoining districts are facing problems due to the closure of the hospital. The licence of the hospital was suspended on September 17 and the facility was sealed after the condition of a woman admitted there for a minor operation deteriorated on September 14 and she was rushed to a private hospital in Lucknow, where she died on September 16. Her husband has alleged that she died due to an overdose of anaesthesia in the Amethi hospital.PTI COR ABN ABN (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Bijnor (UP), Sep 28 (PTI) A 14-year-old Dalit girl was allegedly raped by three men, including her uncle, in this district, police said on Thursday. The incident took place in Dhampur police station area on Wednesday, they said. Also Read | Punjab Farmers Begin Three-Day Rail Roko Protest Demanding Financial Package for Flood-Caused Losses and Debt Waiver (Watch Video). All the three accused have been arrested, Station House Officer (SHO) Kiran Pal Singh said. The girl's mother alleged in a police complaint, lodged on Thursday, that the uncle lured the minor into going with her when she went to school a day earlier. Also Read | Lalbaugcha Raja 2023 Visarjan Route: Details of Immersion Path Revealed; Mumbai Traffic Police Issue Traffic Advisory Ahead of Anant Chaturdashi. According to police, the girl's uncle, Amarjit, promised to give her money if she went with him. The complainant accused Amarjit and his friends Mohit Tyagi and Sumit Verma of raping her daughter. The survivor is a Class 8 student. Based on the complaint, an FIR has been registered against the accused under sections of the Indian Penal Code and provisions of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The matter is being probed, the SHO said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Kampala (Uganda), Sep 28 (AP) A rights watchdog is accusing the World Bank of enabling the Tanzanian government's violent expansion of a national park through financing from the global lender. The World Bank has failed to hold Tanzanian authorities accountable for serious rights violations, including extrajudicial killings and sexual assaults, relating to the expansion of Ruaha National Park in the south of the East African country, according to a new report by the Oakland Institute. Also Read | Punjab Farmers Begin Three-Day Rail Roko Protest Demanding Financial Package for Flood-Caused Losses and Debt Waiver (Watch Video). The report by the California-based watchdog, which regularly monitors rights abuses against indigenous communities, is the result of months of investigation that found evidence of wrongdoing by park rangers funded partly through the World Bank's USD 150 million project, known by the acronym REGROW. In October 2022, Tanzania's government minister in charge of lands and human settlement announced a plan to evict people from five villages with a combined population of more than 21,000. Also Read | Lalbaugcha Raja 2023 Visarjan Route: Details of Immersion Path Revealed; Mumbai Traffic Police Issue Traffic Advisory Ahead of Anant Chaturdashi. Evictions are imminent, says the report released Thursday. Affected communities include members of the Maasai, Datoga and Sangu pastoralist peoples. The Tanzanian government's brutal tactics to force communities away and grow tourism in Ruaha National Park, a goal of the REGROW project, which started in 2017, are inextricably tied to its financing by the World Bank, says the report. In correspondence with the Oakland Institute, the World Bank says it is not funding efforts by Tanzanian authorities to regularize park boundaries. The Bank notes that it doesn't fund the procurement of weapons and insists that activities related to the extension of park boundaries fall outside the scope of REGROW. In response to emailed questions from The Associated Press, the World Bank said that it has zero tolerance for violence in the projects it finances," adding that a panel of inspectors is reviewing a complaint related to REGROW "to determine whether a compliance audit into the concerns raised is warranted. The Tanzanian minister in charge of tourism didn't respond to a request for comment. It remains unclear when mass evictions will start. Habib Mchange, an environmental activist in Tanzania, said authorities are currently doing assessments and evaluations ahead of what is expected to be a protracted eviction and resettlement process. Tanzania relies heavily on tourism revenue to finance its budget, and the country has long been trying to develop its expansive national parks in a bid to attract more visitors. Tens of thousands of communities in other parts of Tanzania have been caught up in these efforts, putting local authorities under the spotlight over civilian abuses. These events, cited by Amnesty International and others, include the violent eviction of 70,000 Maasai from grazing lands in the Loliondo area to clear vast tracts of land for trophy hunting. This is just another episode in an escalating campaign of violence waged by the Tanzanian government against communities living near (protected areas) across the country, the Oakland Institute report said. The dire situation in the south of the country has gone unreported despite a very similar process of dispossession and human rights abuses and the same desire to boost tourism revenue. The Oakland Institute documented 12 disappearances or extrajudicial killings allegedly carried out by rangers, in addition to multiple sexual assaults on women. And government agencies are seizing and auctioning cattle in large numbers, imposing enormous financial strain aimed at pressuring pastoralists to leave, said Anuradha Mittal, executive director of the Oakland Institute. These actions go against a stated goal of the REGROW project to strengthen livelihoods of the local communities, she said. By apparently failing to hold Tanzanian authorities accountable for wrongdoing, even that not directly funded through REGROW, she said, the World Bank's own safeguards have been rendered obsolete. (AP) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Washington, DC [US], September 28 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday held a meeting with US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. Both sides recognized the tremendous progress in bilateral relations this year and discussed taking it forward. Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, Jaishankar stated, "Began my Washington DC visit with a meeting with NSA @JakeSullivan46. Recognized the tremendous progress in our bilateral relationship this year and discussed taking it forward." Also Read | Can Indonesia Social Media E-commerce Ban Help Merchants?. EAM S Jaishankar on Wednesday (local time) arrived in Washington, DC, where he will be engaging with a number of delegates. Jaishankar arrived from New York in Washington, DC. During his visit, he will be meeting his US counterpart Antony Blinken along with White House officials, members of the US administration, business leaders and think tanks. Jaishankar will also meet US Trade Representative, Ambassador Katherine Tai in a closed press meeting here in Washington, DC. Also Read | British Airways Pilot Loses Job After Taking Cocaine off Topless Woman's Breast Before Flying, Airline Asks Employees to Report Drug Use by Colleagues. Notably, Jaishankar is on a visit to the US from September 22-30. He will also be addressing the 4th World Culture Festival being organised by the Art of Living. Earlier this month, US President Joe Biden visited New Delhi to attend the G20 Summit under India's Presidency. During the visit, Biden met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed issues ranging from defence cooperation, and technology sharing. The US President also congratulated India for the success of the Chandrayaan-3. During this, India and the US also settled the seventh and last outstanding World Trade Organisation (WTO) dispute. Notably, the six previous disputes were resolved during PM Modi's state visit to the US. The two leaders called on their governments to continue the work of transforming the India-US Strategic Partnership across all dimensions of our multifaceted global agenda, based on trust and mutual understanding. After the meeting, both the leaders lauded the India-US relations and said that the friendship between the two nations will continue to play a great role in furthering global good. Happy to have welcomed @POTUS @JoeBidento 7, Lok Kalyan Marg. Our meeting was very productive. We were able to discuss numerous topics which will further economic and people-to-people linkages between India and USA. The friendship between our nations will continue to play a great role in furthering global good, PM Modi said in a post on 'X' (formerly known as Twitter). US President Biden also affirmed support towards making the India-US partnership stronger, closer, and more dynamic. Great seeing you, Mr Prime Minister. Today, and throughout the G20, we'll affirm that the United States-India partnership is stronger, closer, and more dynamic than any time in history, President Biden posted on X. Earlier on Tuesday, Jaishankar addressed the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. During his address, the EAM said that political convenience should not be countenanced in determining responses to terrorism and extremism in an apparent reference to Canada amid a diplomatic standoff between the two countries. He also said that respect for territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs cannot be exercised in cherry-picking. Jaishankar said there is a thrust on the promotion of a rules-based order and respect for the UN Charter is also invoked and that rules will work only when they apply equally to all. EAM took a jibe at some nations and said, "In our deliberations, we often advocate the promotion of a rules-based order. From time to time, respect for the UN Charter is also involved. But for all the talk, it is still a few nations that shape the agenda and seek to define the norms. This can't go on indefinitely nor will it go unchallenged. A fair, equitable and democratic order will surely emerge once we all put our minds to it. And for a start, that means ensuring that rule-makers do not subjugate rule-takers." (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Geneva [Switzerland], September 28 (ANI): The husband of Baloch political activist Karima Baloch, who was mysteriously killed in Toronto in 2020, has accused Pakistans ISI of killing her and asked the Canadian government to reopen the investigation. Hammal Haider participated in a protest in front of the United Nations in Geneva to demand justice for Karima Baloch and other Baloch political activists killed in Pakistan and foreign soils. Also Read | Cyberattacks: Indian Hackers Claimed Responsibility of Taking Down Website of Canadian Armed Forces. The protest was organized by Baloch National Movement (BNM) during the 54th Session of Human Rights Council. Hammal said, We believe that the Canadian government and Canadian justice system didnt do well for Karima Baloch who died in suspicious manner and suspicious circumstances and we have been requesting the Canadian government to investigate her case. But, we have seen no interest from the Canadian government. So, it is our firm belief that the Canadian government is not concerned about our activists living in Canada and they are not interested in the Karima Baloch case. He added, She was a high profile politician and her assassination was taken up by all the international media. All over Balochistan, the people are demanding a thorough investigation in her case. But, unfortunately we have not seen anything from Trudeaus government or Canadian government right now. So, we are trying our best to pursue this legally and pressurize the Trudeau government to start a new investigation in Karima Balochs case. Karima, who was listed by the BBC in its 100 most inspirational and influential women for her work in human rights, was granted asylum in Canada in 2016. Hammal Haider said that Karima was getting several life threats because of her work towards human rights in Balochistan. He said, We believe that the Pakistani intelligence agency is behind Karimas killing because they have also been trying to kill other activists abroad. Ahmad Waqass Goraya is a prime example and we have some information that they are also gathering information about other political activists. So, there is no doubt that the Pakistani military establishment, especially the Pakistani ISI is behind killing. The protest in front of the UN was joined by over a dozen of BNM activists who raised slogans like Balochistan is not Pakistan, down with Pakistan, Baloch want freedom, fascist state Pakistan, and Stop Baloch Genocide.Dr. Naseem Baloch, Chairman of Baloch National Movement said, Pakistan Army has been doing barbarism in Balochistan for over seven decades and the world is aware about this. But, we were also aware that activists living abroad will also be targeted. He added, Karima Baloch had revealed about the threats she was receiving. She was bravely engaged in her struggle despite her maternal uncle was abducted and killed by the Pakistani agencies. And one day we got the news about Karimas death. Whatever she revealed before her death it clearly indicates the kind of threats Baloch diaspora has been facing.A large number of political activists and other intellectuals in Balochistan have disappeared. Many of them are tortured and extra-judicially killed by the Pakistan army and other secret agencies. A large number of Baloch who migrated to foreign countries to protect their lives are now feeling unsafe after the death of Karima Baloch in Canada and journalist Sajid Hussain Baloch in Sweden in 2020. Also Read | Can Indonesia Social Media E-commerce Ban Help Merchants?. Karima Baloch was a Baloch human rights activist and a dissident. She was granted asylum in Canada in 2016. She was found dead after having gone missing in Dec 2020 in Toronto. She was slated to be buried on January 25, but, before the corpse could be transported from Karachi to Balochistan, Pakistani authorities forcibly took Karima's body along with her family from the airport to her hometown, Balochwarna reported. Later, she was buried under Army watch as thousands who came to pay their last respect weren't allowed near her, the Balochistan Times reported. Prior to her burial, the mobile services were suspended in the district, and Tump and surrounding areas were put under strict lockdown. Karima's death sparked protests across Europe and North America as the Baloch diaspora took to the streets in Toronto, Berlin and Netherlands calling on the Canadian government to investigate. Karima had campaigned vigorously against the disappearances and human rights violations in the troubled Balochistan province of Pakistan. (ANI)(ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) On Thursday, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Valeriy Zaluzhny, spoke with Supreme Commander of the NATO Joint Armed Forces in Europe and Commander of the U.S. Armed Forces in Europe, Christopher Cavoli. "A meaningful telephone conversation with Supreme Commander of the NATO Joint Armed Forces in Europe and Commander of the U.S. Armed Forces in Europe, General Christopher Cavoli. I familiarized my colleague in detail with the situation at the front and the priority needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The issue of strengthening our air defense remains a priority," Zaluzhny wrote on Telegram on Thursday evening "I am grateful to our partners for their help and active cooperation for the liberation of Ukrainian territory from Russian occupiers. Together to Victory!" the commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces noted. Kyiv [Ukraine], September 28 (ANI): Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov on Thursday met UK counterpart Grant Shapps in Kyiv. The two leaders spoke about Ukraine's demand for increased air defences, artillery and anti-drone systems, CNN reported. Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, Rustem Umerov stated, "Important visit of my colleague @GrantShapps to Kyiv. Thanked our UK friends for unwavering support. Briefed on current battlefield situation and urgent needs. Focus on air defence, artillery, anti-drone systems. Winter is coming but we are ready. Stronger together." Also Read | Can Indonesia Social Media E-commerce Ban Help Merchants?. Earlier, UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps held a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy thanked Shapps for the UK's financial, defence and humanitarian support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. The two leaders discussed the issue of bolstering Ukraine's air defence, which is particularly important in the run-up to the winter season. Notably, the UK has been offering defence and humanitarian support to Ukraine ever since the conflict between Kyiv and Moscow started in February last year. Also Read | British Airways Pilot Loses Job After Taking Cocaine off Topless Woman's Breast Before Flying, Airline Asks Employees to Report Drug Use by Colleagues. Ukrainian President's Office in a statement said, "The parties also praised the adoption by the Group of Seven at the NATO Summit in Vilnius of a Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine and the start of negotiations with the UK on a bilateral agreement on security guarantees for Ukraine." Zelenskyy praised the level of cooperation of Ukraine with the UK in the defence sector, which allows the Ukrainian army to significantly bolster its capabilities on the battlefield. During the meeting, Volodymyr Zelenskyy said, "On behalf of the whole nation, I thank you for everything you are doing for us. We are grateful for your help military, financial, humanitarian. We greatly appreciate that we can rely on you," according to Ukrainian President's Office. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Washington, DC, September 28: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankaron Wednesday (local time) arrived in Washington, DC, where he will be engaging with a number of delegates. Jaishankar arrived from New York in DC. He will be meeting his US counterpart Antony Blinken during his visit along with White House officials, members of the US administration, business leaders and think tanks. Jaishankar will also meet US Trade Representative, Ambassador Katherine Tai in a closed press meeting here in Washington, DC. Earlier on Tuesday, Jaishankar addressed the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. During his address, the EAM said that political convenience should not be countenanced in determining responses to terrorism and extremism in an apparent reference to Canada amid a diplomatic standoff between the two countries. He also said that respect for territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs cannot be exercised in cherry-picking. EAM S Jaishankar Wraps Up New York Leg of US Visit, To Travel to Washington DC Between September 27 to 30 Jaishnakr said there is a thrust on the promotion of a rules-based order and respect for the UN Charter is also invoked and that rules will work only when they apply equally to all. But for all the talk, it is still a few nations who shape the agenda and seek to define the norms. This cannot go on indefinitely. Nor will it go unchallenged. A fair, equitable and democratic order will surely emerge, once we all put our minds to it. And for a start, that means ensuring that rule-makers do not subjugate rule-takers. After all, rules will work only when they apply equally to all, he said. India-Canada Row: Not Part Of Five Eyes, FBI S Jaishankar On Sharing Intelligence Over Hardeep Singh Nijjars Killing S Jaishankar US Visit He further called on the United Nations to make reforms to stay relevant in the modern world and said that the issue cannot remain "indefinite" and "unchallenged". EAM took a jibe at some nations and said, "In our deliberations, we often advocate the promotion of a rules-based order. From time to time, respect for the UN Charter is also involved. But for all the talk, it is still a few nations that shape the agenda and seek to define the norms. This can't go on indefinitely nor will it go unchallenged. A fair, equitable and democratic order will surely emerge once we all put our minds to it. And for a start, that means ensuring that rule-makers do not subjugate rule-takers." Meanwhile, Jaishankar is on a visit to the US from September 22-30. He will also be addressing the 4th World Culture Festival being organised by the Art of Living. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Mumbai, September 28: The Mumbai police saved the life of a 28-year-old man after being alert by the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) about his suicidal behaviour, the police said on Thursday. The police were alerted by an email sent by Interpol, which stated that the man was searching on Google 'Ways to commit a suicide'. Taking cognizance of the matter, the police traced the mobile number of the man and found that the he was a resident of Mumbai's Malad West and a native of Rajasthan. Karnataka Shocker: Class 9 Student Dies by Suicide by Hanging Himself in Hostel in Chikkamagaluru. "The man lived at his relative's place in Mumbai's Malad West as his mother has been serving jail terms in connection with a case. He worked in a private company and lost his job five or six months back. He tried looking for jobs but could not find one. On the other hand, his mother was also not getting bail. Distressed by the situation, the man suffered from Depression and googled 'Ways to commit suicide'", said the Mumbai police. "The police reached the man's place and took him to the police station. Later, the police officials made him understand after which he gave up the idea of suicide. His relative was contacted and later the man was sent home", it added. Earlier on Friday, the Delhi Police rescued a man who was trying to die by suicide on Instagram Live over a matrimonial dispute. NEET Aspirant Dies by Suicide After Hanging Himself in Hostel Room in Rajasthans Sikar District. Prompt action from the police saved his life. The person injured himself severely with blades due to which he was immediately shifted to hospital by police. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), every year 7,03,000 people take their own life. The WHO says that suicide does not just occur in high-income countries but is a global phenomenon in all regions of the world. In fact, over 77pc of global suicides occurred in low- and middle-income countries in 2019. Suicide is a serious public health problem; however, suicides are preventable with timely, evidence-based and often low-cost interventions. For national responses to be effective, a comprehensive multisectoral suicide prevention strategy is needed. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Bengaluru, September 28: The Karnataka bandh call given by Kannada organisations over release of water to Tamil Nadu is likely to affect normal life in Bengaluru on Friday. The Congress government has warned that there is no room for observing a bandh and the permission has only been given for a peaceful protest. However, Kannada activist Vatal Nagaraj has claimed that the bandh is going to be a success and it does not matter whether prohibitory orders are clamped in the state or not. CM Siddaramaiah should support the bandh and protest march. This is about the River Cauvery. The protestors should not be troubled by the police. We are taking out a peaceful protest march and not indulging in violence. I appeal to the president of Advocates Association to boycott the legal proceedings and support the bandh. Karnataka Bandh Tomorrow: Normal Life Likely To Be Affected During Bandh on 29 September To Protest Release of Cauvery Water to Tamil Nadu. Employees of the state transport corporations should also support the bandh, he said. The state government had given oral directions for the staff of the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) and the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) to attend duties on Friday without fail. Ola-Uber Cab Drivers Association president Tanveer Pasha stated that the cab aggregators will take part in the Karnataka bandh. Between 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. the service of cabs and autos would be stopped. 1.25 lakh autos and 50,000 cabs would not ply on Friday till evening 6 p.m. Kuruburu Shantakumar, state president of Sugarcane Growers Association and Convenor of Jala Samrakshana Samithi had stated that the organisations under their umbrella would stage road blocks between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on state and national highways across Karnataka. Cauvery Dispute: BJP MP Tejaswi Surya Slams Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Over Cauvery Water Row, Says Failed To Handle Issue. We will lay siege to the residence of CM Siddaramaiah, he explained. However, he maintained that the samithi would not support the Karnataka bandh call. Organisers of the Karnataka bandh had not given support to the Bengaluru bandh observed successfully on September 26. The IT industry and corporates have decided to go online without taking any chances. Most of the employees are in a holiday mood and are leaving Bengaluru either for their native places or for holiday destinations. Bengaluru City University, Tumakuru University, Rani Channamma University in Belagavi, Visvesvaraya Technological University, Davanagere University and the Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) have postponed exams scheduled to be held on Friday due to the Karnataka bandh. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 28, 2023 07:18 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Madhepura, September 28: A 15-year-old boy, kidnapped in Sikkim, was rescued from Bihar's Madhepura district, police said on Thursday. Three people, accused of kidnapping the boy, were also arrested from a house in Laualagan village in Chusa police station area where the boy was held hostage, they said. The boy was kidnapped from outside his school in Gangtok on August 20, Superintendent of Police (SP) Rajesh Kumar said. Jharkhand Shocker: Body of Seven-Year-Old Boy Found With Tongue Chopped Off, Eyes Gouged Out in Garhwa District. "Recently, we received information from the Sikkim Police that a boy who was kidnapped in Gangtok was being held hostage in Madhepura. A special team was constituted to trace the boy. The boy was safely rescued on Wednesday," the officer said. Ahmedabad Shocker: Teenage Girl, Addicted to Mobile Phone and Social Media, Conspires to Kill Parents, Mixes Insecticides in Sugar; Know Why. "We have informed the Sikkim Police about the rescue, and further formalities are being completed to hand over the boy," he said. Bhopal, September 28: The Madhya Pradesh Police on Thursday claimed to have arrested the main accused in the Ujjain minor girl rape case. The arrested individual has been identified as Bharat Soni, a resident of Ujjain. Earlier on Thursday, Ujjain SP Sachin Sharma said that a total of five suspects were detained for questioning. One of them was detained on Wednesday, while four were detained on Thursday. Sharma said that the victim hails from Satna district. Meanwhile, the main accused who had been apprehended, tried to escape from police custody and collided with a cemented wall following which he was admitted to a government hospital, police Inspector Ajay Kumar said. Ujjain Minor Rape Case: Main Accused Arrested While Trying To Escape Police (Watch Video). Ujjain Minor Girl Rape Case #WATCH | Inspector Ajay Kumar says, "Today, we reached the spot to recreate the scene of crime and recover the clothes worn by the girl. Sensing an opportunity, Bharat Soni tried to escape. Police personnel chased him and caught him. During this, he fell on the cement road and https://t.co/2DzRgSaijM pic.twitter.com/QA3K19yaap ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2023 Interacting with the press, the police officer said when the accused was taken to the crime spot, he tried to escape. "He (accused) ran away from the spot. However, the police personnel chased him. In the mean time, he collided with a cemented wall and got injured," Kumar said. He further said one of the cops chasing the accused also got injuries but eventually, the accused was overpowered. When asked if the accused sustained injury due to police firing, Kumar denied, saying: "He collided with a cemented wall." Ujjain Rape Case: Family in Satna Had Lodged Missing Report of Minor Girl, Four More Detained. "Victim's family has lodged a missing complaint on September 24. The girl has traveled from Satna to Ujjain," SP Sharma said. The incident has sparked a political controversy in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh. The opposition Congress has questioned the law and order situation under the BJP government in the state. AICC general secretary Priyanka Gandhi, who is leading the Congress' campaign in the poll-bound state of MP, slammed the BJP government for the incident. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 28, 2023 09:11 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Bhopal, September 28: The 12-year-old mentally challenged girl, who was raped in Ujjain and begged people for help, has been identified and her family traced in Satna district, said police on Thursday, adding that four more people have been detained. The police claimed that the girl hails from Madhya Pradesh's Satna district and a missing complaint had been registered by her family. Briefing the media on Thursday, Ujjain Superintendent of Police (SP) Sachin Sharma said the girl travelled from Satna to Ujjain on September 25. However, it was yet to be ascertained whether she travelled to Ujjain by train or bus. A missing complaint of the girl was registered at a police station in Satna on September 24, Sharma added. Ujjain Minor Rape Case: Rahul Gandhi Attacks BJP Govts, Says PM Narendra Modi, MP CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan Have Suppressed Screams of Daughter Amidst Election Speeches. Sharma said that four more suspects -- those who came in contact with the girl from Satna to Ujjain -- have been detained for interrogation. There is a gap of five-six hours after the girl reached Ujjain and the brutal crime took place against her. When we compiled the chain of evidence collected through our different teams of police, we found that four-five people came in her contact from Satna to Ujjain. And they all have been detained, Sharma added. The SP further said a special team of 28 police personnel has been formed to investigate the case. Teams have been assigned different tasks. Our teams inspected bus and railway stations, auto stands and some other places. CCTV footage and some other technical evidence was collected, subsequently, when this evidence was examined, it suggested that the girl had reached Ujjain from Satna, Sharma added. Madhya Pradesh Shocker: Minor Girl Raped, Left Lying in Unconscious State in Pool of Blood in Ujjain, Police Begin Probe. He said further investigation will proceed on the basis of interrogation of the suspects detained in connection with the case. We are very close to solving this case, but the investigation is still underway, the SP said. Speaking about the victims health condition, Sharma said that she has recovered and her condition was much better than previous days. Notably, the victims private part was brutalised and she was referred to Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Medical College (MGMC) Indore where surgery was conducted. As per the doctors latest update, the victim has recovered and is better. As surgery was conducted successfully, she is still under observation of the doctors, he added. On Wednesday police had detained an auto-driver. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 28, 2023 04:09 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Spain, September 28: Three teachers and at least one pupil were attacked by a 14-year-old pupil who pulled a knife out of his backpack and went on a rampage as classes began at a Spanish school this morning. The teenager allegedly stabbed three teachers and two students repeatedly as classes started at around 8.25am at the Elena Garcia Armada Institute in the city of Jerez de la Frontera, southern Spain. Dailymail reported that the teenager reportedly went for one of the teachers after getting a knife out of his rucksack shortly after entering the school. The unnamed woman was said to have been stabbed in the face and eye before another teacher who went to her aid was also injured. US Shocker: Married School Teacher Has Sex With Two Teenage Students, Sends Nude Photos on Snapchat; Arrested. The school is currently being evacuated and several ambulances are now present as the victims are being treated at the site of the attack. US Shocker: Pennsylvania Cop Falsely Commits Ex-Girlfriend to Mental Facility, Held After Video of Improper Detaining of Victim Goes Viral. A student said that the boy went "all angry" to the back of his class, where his backpack was, and took "knives" from it. Then he went "stabbing everyone who passed by." He continued: "Then he started to annoy everyone, even the teacher, who hit him in the eye. He almost caught my friend and hit another friend in the forearm. And my Physics and Chemistry teacher in the head." Panicked parents, upon hearing the news of the stabbing, rushed to the school where they had dropped their children off only minutes earlier. Police are currently questioning the accused, who is said to have autism. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 28, 2023 03:19 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). New York, September 28: Two Indian-American Cisco engineers, who were sued for caste discrimination in California, have joined a lawsuit filed by a Hindu advocacy group, alleging that the state's Civil Rights Department (CRD) violated several constitutional rights of Hindus and Indian-Americans. After years of litigation, the caste discrimination case against Sundar Iyer and Ramana Kompella was voluntarily dismissed by the CRD in April this year. According to an amended complaint filed by the Hindu American Foundation (HAF), CRD violated constitutional rights of several Hindus and Indian Americans due to the manner in which it pursued its case alleging caste discrimination at Cisco Systems. It accuses CRD of wrongly asserting that caste system and caste-based discrimination are integral to Hindu teachings and practices. Karnataka Bandh Tomorrow: Normal Life Likely To Be Affected During Bandh on 29 September To Protest Release of Cauvery Water to Tamil Nadu In addition to Kompella and Iyer, long-time California resident and interfaith leader, Dilip Amin, three Indian-origin Hindu tech workers, and others have also joined the suit, claiming direct harm by the CRDs unconstitutional and inaccurate statements about Hinduism and Indians. The updated complaint was filed in federal court last week after the judge granted HAF 21 days to amend its complaint to avoid dismissal. The court asked for a level of specificity not normally required in a preliminary complaint, Samir Kalra, HAFs Managing Director, said in a statement. But were happy to have had the chance to incorporate that specificity as well as add a number of individual plaintiffs who had stepped forward with shared concerns with the CRDs overreach since the time of our original filing. The amended complaint states that "California defames Hinduism by doing what the US Constitution says it cannot, assert a government right to resolve questions of religious doctrine". It says that preventing the government from establishing religious doctrines or interfering in religious practices is as old a principle as the Republic itself. Cisco Layoffs: Networking Giant Lays Off Employees Across Business Units in Fresh Round of Job Cuts "California law and regulations provide no definition or workable method to determine anyones caste other than its assumption that Hindus of South Asian, in particular Indian, descent must all necessarily identify as part of a specific caste and must engage in discrimination based on caste as an inherent or mandated part of their religious beliefs and practices, the complaint notes further. Meanwhile, several Hindu-Americans in California have been urging Governor Gavin Newsom to veto an anti-caste discrimination bill, recently passed by the State Assembly. They say that the SB 403 bill -- introduced by Senator Aisha Wahab in March -- is discriminatory and targets Hindus. If signed into law by Newsom, California will become the first state in the US and the first jurisdiction outside India to outlaw discrimination based on caste. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 28, 2023 03:28 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). On 27 September Paraguays foreign minister,summoned US Ambassador to Paraguayto discuss alleged US government documents that were leaked to the media. 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 Tolentino leads CamNor Provincial Hospital Groundbreaking DAET, CAMARINES NORTE -- Senator Francis "Tol" Tolentino leads the groundbreaking ceremony of the five-storey Camarines Norte Provincial Hospital Phase 1 in Barangay V, Daet, on Thursday. Echoing Camarines Norte Governor Dong Padilla, Tolentino said:"The feeling of being helpless, hopeless, while sharing a hospital bed should not be experienced by majority of our countrymen." "The feeling of being helpful, and being of service should be the real experience," Sen. Tol further remarked. The said hospital will offer several medical services including chemotherapy, blood transfusion, and dialysis. An exclusive interview of the mayor of Drohobych, Taras Kuchma, within the joint special project of Information Agency Interfax Ukraine and East Europe Foundation Community Experience (Dosvid hromad). Its purpose is to show the most outstanding examples of adaptation and integration of internally displaced persons in order to improve the efficiency of local self-government bodies. Read more about effective interaction with IDPs in the free online course Adaptation and integration of IDPs: experience and opportunities on the Zrozumilo! online educational platform. Author: Oleksandr Trokhymchuk Before the full-scale invasion, over 75,000 people lived in Drohobych. How has the population of your city and community changed in over a year of the full-scale invasion? How many IDPs have you accepted in total? In the united territorial community, there are 125,000 residents. That is, in besides Drohobych, the community also includes the city of Stebnyk and 32 villages, totalling in approximately 125,000 inhabitants. After 2014, the first significant resettlement took place here. They were Crimean Tatars - about 300-400 people. Soon after the onset of full-scale aggression... Drohobych is near the border (90 km from the border with Poland - IF-U), and a lot of people went to Poland, leaving from established residences. And it was a great stress not only for them, but also for us, because we could not understand what was happening. A lot of people, especially from Kyiv, from the Kyiv region, Zhytomyr, and Sumy regions, came to us, and we had to help them somehow. And this concerned not only food and the need give them shelter somewhere, but the most important thing was to calm people down psychologically. Because many of them came with just what they were wearing, that is, in fact, with nothing. From the start of the full-scale invasion, we have had about 20,000 officially registered persons (of IDPs - IF-U). But this figure can be easily multiplied by three, because many people came to us for only two or three days, and they did not want to register. Currently, there are approximately 16,000 migrants in the community, out of which, according to our calculations, about 30% will remain with us permanently. Because they have noplace to return. These are former Mariupol residents, Luhansk residents, Donetsk residents, there are people from Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions there are approximately 6-7 thousand of them. What problems did you have to face initially? We could not immediately register everyone and provide normal housing. At the block posts at the entrance, we handed out leaflets so that people knew where to go for housing, where to get food, where to go for psychological help. We had posts for psychological relief and separately - for gathering information. Because there were many nuances. For example, a mentally ill person cannot be accommodated together with everyone else, and a bedridden person cannot be accommodated on the ninth floor. Does your community still accept migrants? Now, they mostly come to us from other regions. For example, some who initially stayed in the Ivano-Frankivsk region, upon learning about Drohobych, moved to our community. There are people who have found work and housing with us, and have invited their relatives and friends to come to them. And if at first more people came to us, for example, from Kyiv, Irpen, Gostomel, now we accept more from Bakhmut, Slavyansk, Zaporizhzhia. It is important to note that they are all very different. For ourselves, we typically divided them into two groups - temporarily displaced persons fleeing from immediate danger and internally displaced persons fleeing from war, who often have nothing left: their houses have been bombed, their lives destroyed. And the second group is a psychologically completely different type of people who behave in a completely different way and astruggle to adapt in a new environment. For example, we had people from Mariupol: they had owned businesses, they had families, apartments there, but suddenly, in one minute, everything was gone. And such people need support, they need the belief that they are needed. Not to mention those who were handicapped - left without an eye, without an arm or some other physical disabilities caused by war and combat operations. But at the same time, we do not humiliate people with pity. If you narrow down the data, do you have an idea of how many people moved to you, specifically fleeing the war? In a percentage correlation, I would say approximately 40% are those who are fleeing from immediate danger, though their cities are not under occupation, the people are just afraid because they are being bombed. and about 60% are thoseare people that have no where to return, even if their settlements have already been de-occupied, about 10% of those sre people who have already returned from abroad. Upon arriving in a new area, and especially from different regions and under today's difficult conditions, a person must adapt to life in the community. How do you establish communication with new residents? First of all, we are all one nation and we suffer together. Because there were a lot of those who pass around blame, and claim that because of you they are bombing us. So we have clearly defined red lines that cannot be crossed: neither we owe you anything, nor you owe us anything. Such was my first communication, that took down one of the barriers. Secondly, we immediately created many courses for studying the Ukrainian language. But these were courses that not only teach the language, but also the history of the city. I have personally conducted tours so that people who came to us were able to understand that this is a city with a great history, which has lived and existed for about a thousand years, has its own traditions and was one of the richest in the Austro-Hungarian Empire. And, you know, this pride for the city and love for it, it is passed on to others. So many Kharkiv residents who settled here, have become true patriots of Drohobychyna. Because if they miss their Kharkiv, people here love their city just as much. And this common feeling of love for one's native land, for one's small homeland, became the second thing that removed barriers. The next points are, after all, housing, food provision and care, which at the same time was rationed. Because we understand very well: if you give too much to people, all at once, it will not be useful. In the vast majority, 99% of the displaced people who fled from war and danger, they have adapted to our traditions. For example, they are the first to join joint groups. So, it's not the locals who first come to clean the parks, but the settlers. And it was inspiring. It is nice when people from Severodonetsk take care of the monument to Stepan Bandera. We just need for time to smooth out all the nuances that are in our one nation, which for thousands of years has been under pressure to make divide. You mentioned the language courses that were organized in the Drohobych community for IDPs. Have you not been reproached for allegedly dividing society in this way? I will try to answer a little philosophically. You see, language is like faith. And if religion divides, faith in God unites. It is the same with language - it is not a religion, but faith - faith in one's nation. So language unites. We all don't learn English to be divided, correct? We study it in order to unite with the world. We can talk however we want in everyday life - this is our right. I, for example, can speak with a dialect. My grandmother spoke Lemki. In the family, we had our own style of naming objects, it was rather specific. But this is in my house, in my home. When I came to school, I tried to speak the literary language that I was taught there. It is very important. Language is a unifying factor, as it should be. People who understand this actively sign up for courses and try to communicate in Ukrainian. And society supports this. But when someone principally tries to force everyone to speak "in normal human language", it gets irritating. In general, I would not like to divide Ukrainians into Ukrainian-speaking and Russian-speaking. Completely! Because Ukrainians are all Ukrainian speakers. Only due to certain circumstances, people may come from regions where Ukrainian libraries and schoolshave been destroyed for the past 300 years. And what cases of communication with forced migrants do you consider to be the most successful in Drohobych region? How has communication with IDPs changed? First of all, as I have already mentioned, when entering the city, at checkpoints, internally displaced persons received leaflets with information on housing, food, psychological assistance, etc. The informational packets also contained contact info for managing persons. We also set up a 24/7 call center. This provided very good communication, through which we learned about the needs of the people who came to us. In addition, we have a special site where all information is provided. How has everything changed now? I would say that now there is even more communication. That is, when we learn about people's needs, we immediately provide information on our website. For example, if humanitarian aid has arrived and we immediately look over what we have, and make an announcement that there is aid for families with children up to nine years old. We have all the phones - and we inform people. Currently communication takes place according to the win-win principle, that is, communication in person. Initially, we learned about everything over the phone and through the website, now our social workers dealing with internally displaced persons are familiar with most of them personally: they know about every need. And this is very important. We try to do everything so that the displaced people do not withdraw into themselves. Therefore, we do not create enclaves for them, but settle them throughout the city, dispersed among community, so that people can adapt normally. We try to make them feel needed, that they are not temporary visitors here, but equal citizens of Drohobych just as we are. People who are forced to move from other territories, primarily face two urgent needs - finding housing and work. How do you overcome these challenges? We conducted a survey, and according to the results, 90% of all displaced persons said that they are not in need of temporary housing (they are able to rent), but instead they need a permanent roof over their heads, because they have nowhere to return. Then we decided that we would convert an unfinished building into either dormitories or regular apartments. We finished a 52-apartment building, that is, we converted our dormitory for it, and accommodated more than 50 people there. At the same time, we started construction on capital apartment buildings. This is rapid construction method according to the Canadian system. And, unfortunately, here we faced a situation where the state did not give us the opportunity to pay it. And we built that house in almost two months, but due to the fact that we could not allocate funds from the budget, it slowed down - and we began to look for sponsors who would help fund to complete the construction. In this we were successful. Next, we will construct another apartment building, because people have nowhere to live, and temporary housing does not appeal to them. It is important and even beneficial to attract them to staying with us, because we really need the highly qualified personnel who came. These are doctors, engineers, narrow-profile specialists in labor professions, welders, and millers. They support the economy. It is clear that it will not be possible to provide everyone with permanent housing in a short period of time. That is why we have a system of categorization, where, for example, housing is obtained by points: if it is a large family or if people have some other factors, and then according to this scale they form the first queue for housing. I think that in a year or two, Drohobych will provide housing for all IDPs who need it. In addition, for the specialists who came to us together with the relocated business, the owners of the factories themselves are ready to build housing. We are only required to provide the land. Since we have already mentioned the relocated business, can you name such enterprises in Drohobych? I can't talk about it now. Let's put it like this: the war will end, and we will talk about our entire relocated business. I can only talk about the coffee shops that some proprietors have opened. But not more than that, because those relocated enterprises make our economy and they are very important for the government. How did the relocated business make an impact on the economic situation in the Drohobych community? First of all, it is the formation of new jobs. And the most important thing is opening our eyes to the fact that we actually have many vacancies, but unfortunately, there are very few people who could fill them. Because, unfortunately, there are no specialists in working professions. And our education does not prepare them. We produce a lot of lawyers, businessmen, managers, waiters, but specialists in such professions, which are extremely necessary now, are uncommon. Therefore, we have to adjust our professional education to completely different rails. Secondly, we saw that our region needs to give people the opportunity to earn money themselves at those relocated enterprises. Thirdly, we saw how high the production culture was in those factories. For example, I am impressed by one particular factory from Kharkiv. All this affects the economy. I am sure that it will flourish thanks to the production culture at the relocated factories. Let's return to the topic of employment of forced migrants. To what extent is this question closed for you today? Approximately 30% of all migrants are employed here. These are those people who were unemployed or did not have their own business. In concrete numbers, we managed to employ 161 people. The rest of the people have found work for themselves: they open their own small businesses. And to summarize this part of the conversation, what do you think are the most significant successes in terms of adaptation and integration of forcibly displaced persons achieved by the Drohobych community? We built work with internally displaced persons on understanding and acceptance - this is very crucial. We have formed conditions for education for absolutely all children. In particular, all kindergartens were opened for migrants. We have quite stable and systematic communication, that is, we study the needs of those people who came to us. We also do everything possible to adapt the displaced persons to cultural life in our city. And, as I mentioned earlier, we continue doing everything to keep them with us, especially those specialists that we desperately need. It is clear that the great war changed a great deal in aspects such as partnership between communities. How did you set up partnerships before the full-scale invasion and how did the direction of the partnership change after February 24, 2022? We had a lot of international experience. We had many sister cities in different countries of the world. These are America, Spain, France, Poland (especially), Lithuania, Latvia, Germany, and Italy. And if it weren't for international partners, things would be extremely difficult for us. First of all, before the war, we had a cultural and economic exchange, we implemented joint projects, especially with the German and Polish sides, in particular, we had good partnership relations with Krakow and Bytom. But the war constructed some serious adjustments. I am extremely grateful, especially to the Poles, when in the first days of the war, February 24-25, we already received humanitarian aid. In the very first days of the war, I turned to my friends - the mayors of other cities - with a plea for help. I won't name them separately now, but practically everyone responded, and the humanitarian aid immediately just poured in, we collected it in Przemysl and from there we arranged routes to Drohobych, and then further distributed the aid throughout Ukraine. As for internal partnership, it is primarily our two sister cities - Nova Kakhovka and Izyum. Nova Kakhovka has been a sister city for a long time, and we had good joint projects, exchanges, a powerful union of the east and west of Ukraine. And during the course of the war, Izyum became our sister city, whom we still help. Unfortunately, we cannot support Nova Kakhovka directly, because the city is currently under occupation. We have a large joint project with entrepreneurs from Izyum and Kharkiv region. We established the Park of the Invincibles: in memory of the 475 people that were tortured in the Izyum forest, we planted oaks. This is the kind of joint cooperation that unites us and makes us strong together. Share your life hacks, how to find partnerships and establish effective cooperation? First, it is necessary to become an interesting city for a partner. You have to show that you are not just interested in finding a partner, but in cooperation. You see, very often partners perceive Ukraine as an incognito state, that no one knows anything about. But when they come and see a city with traditions, developed infrastructure, and most importantly - with European openness, then they want to do business. And when they also feel that they can learn something from us, and we do not shy away from learning from them, then cooperation is established. For example, the German side learned from us communication with communities, document management, Smart City work, and in return we learned from them about work organization, school curriculum, and medicine. Also, German farmers began to take an interest in us. As for the Polish side, for example, we had close relations with the Krakow water supply. Where is Krakow, and where is Drohobych, right? It would seem, the weight categories are not the same, but we are interesting to each other, and this makes us attractive, and these partnerships develop. Let's move on to the next block of questions - the security topic. In your annual report, you noted that work on the construction of protective structures was actively carried out in the community. Can you clarify how many shelters are already functioning and how many are being set up in the city now? There are 24 defensive structures, 52 shelters and 1,495 basements, which we converted into defensive structures. That is, we tried to provide shelters in all parts of the city, and even villages, so that if the need ever arose, people would have somewhere to hide. And to what extent are these buildings adapted for a long stay? We have eight such shelters, which have everything we need: food supplies, water, and equipped toilets. One can stay there for relatively a long time. In one of your interviews, you noted that the Teroborona (Homeland defense) and volunteer units in Drohobych "are trained in what to do in the event of hostilities." How did you prepare for the invasion? As a military man, I knew that sooner or later it would happen, so we were preparing long before the full-scale invasion. We were forming tactical medicine, practicing combat operations in the city, and had groups to combat saboteurs. Drohobych residents are now on the front line in very large numbers, and I am proud of each of them, because when commanders call me and say that they are the best trained soldiers, I am very proud to hear it. *** The interview with the mayor of Drohobych, Taras Kuchma, was prepared as part of a joint special project of the Interfax-Ukraine news agency and East Europe Foundation Community Experience (https://interfax.com.ua/news/general/919611.html), launched in support by the Stiykist Programme which is implemented by East Europe Foundation within a consortium of non-governmental organisations led by ERIM (Equal Rights and Independent Media, France) and funded by the European Union. Its purpose is to show the experience of Ukrainian communities in the adaptation and integration of forcibly displaced persons in order to increase the efficiency of the work of local self-government bodies. You can learn more about effective interaction with IDPs in the free online course "Adaptation and integration of IDPs: experience and opportunities" on the educational "Zrozumilo!" platform The opinions and statements expressed in the material do not necessarily coincide with the views of the consortium partner organizations and the European Union. On 27 September thousands of demonstrators marched in Colombias capital Bogota in support of Presidents socioeconomic reform agenda. End of preview - This article contains approximately 392 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options On 27 September Brazils senate approved a bill (PL 2903) which has been criticised by human rights advocates as a setback to indigenous land rights, as it aims to enshrine into law the so-called marco temporal thesis, recently deemed unconstitutional by the supreme court (STF). End of preview - This article contains approximately 596 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options Florida Governor Ron DeSantis's attempts to gerrymander and dismantle a majority Black congressional district are getting more attention to Republican attempts to impede voting rights around the country after a judge ruled that Florida's Republican-drawn redistricting map was unconstitutional. During the opening for one of the many federal lawsuits regarding the Florida redistricting case, lawyers challenging the Republican-drawn maps said that the dismantling of the majority-Black congressional district by Ron DeSantis was deliberate. One of these lawsuits argued that the Republican-drawn map dismantled the district so that Democrats could not regain control of the US House. That district is a 200-mile area that connected a majority-black neighborhood in Jacksonville with the majority-black county of Gadsden. The map that included the district was vetoed by DeSantis and forced the legislature to draw a new one that did not include it. "The governor pushed and pushed and pushed," said lawyer Greg Baker about DeSantis's actions. "He pressed his argument by sound bite bullying." This resulted in the Republicans winning a narrow majority in the House and left Black voters in north Florida with only white representation in Washington. This lawsuit was filed by Common Cause Florida, the Florida branch of the NAACP, and Fair Districts. They want the Republican-drawn map thrown out, according to the Associated Press. During his opening argument, Baker told the three-judge panel that the Republican governor's goal was to dismantle the district then held by Democratic Rep. Al Lawson, who is Black. The district he represented was then dispersed among more conservative and majority-white districts which were won by White Republicans. This resulted in Florida not having any Black representative for the first time in 30 years. READ MORE: Ron DeSantis' Redrawn Congressional Map of Florida Is Unconstitutional, Rules Judge Ron DeSantis Targeted Black Voters The Guardian reported that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis tried to dilute Black political power in Florida and weaken Democrats through gerrymandering congressional districts. In addition to gerrymandering, DeSantis also gutted the biggest voting rights victory in recent history, which a majority of Florida voters supported. This would have allowed people with a felony conviction to vote in Florida. Republican Gerrymandering Gets More Scrutiny The Republican party's attempts to hamper Black voters are not exclusive to Florida either. On the very same day as the opening to the Florida lawsuit, the Supreme Court rejected Alabama's attempt to avoid creating a second majority-Black congressional district and avoid possibly getting another Democrat into the US House of Representatives. The state, which has one of the highest populations of African Americans at 27%, might get a second Black-majority district thanks to a new congressional map, which Alabama Republicans tried to stop. However, the Supreme Court affirmed a lower court decision and ordered the state to redraw its seven-seat congressional map to include a second majority-Black district, according to CNN. This could have some massive implications on the national level as Alabama currently has six Republicans and one Democrat representing the state at the House. With the redrawn district, one Republican House seat might get flipped blue. READ MORE: Florida: Ron DeSantis' Anti-Immigration Law Starts Hurting Businesses This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: DeSantis' redistricting map in Florida is unconstitutional and must be redrawn, judge says - 10 Tampa Bay Nicolas Petro, Colombia's President Gustavo Petro son, is set to stand trial on charges of illicit enrichment and money laundering stemming from his political activities in the province of Atlantico. This announcement came from the attorney general's office on Monday, according to Reuters. An official indictment against Petro was filed in the Criminal Courts of the Specialized Circuit of Barranquilla, as the attorney general's office conveyed in a statement. Nicolas Petro, the son of President Gustavo Petro, had been taken into custody in Barraquilla, the capital of Atlantico, back in July. His ex-wife, Daysuris del Carmen Vasquez, who faces similar allegations, was arrested then. During a hearing in August, Nicolas Petro pleaded not guilty but expressed his willingness to cooperate with the prosecutors. He is accused of purchasing properties valued at $394,000 using funds not part of his official salary. Nicolas Petro had previously negotiated a deal with prosecutors, potentially allowing him to receive reduced sentences or house arrest. However, this agreement fell apart after he missed a deadline to provide information and evidence implicating others, according to the attorney general's office. The statement additionally noted that the court would appoint a judge to oversee the case later. READ NEXT: Colombia President Gustavo Petro's Son Arrested Colombia President Gustavo Petro Denies Knowledge of Alleged Money Laundering President Gustavo Petro, who had consistently denied knowledge of illicit activities, reaffirmed his commitment to pursuing his administration's policy agenda. He expressed his distress at his child's imprisonment but clarified that he would not interfere with the ongoing investigation, per the Latin Times. In a social media post, he conveyed, "To my son, I wish luck and strength. May these occurrences forge his character and lead to self-reflection about his actions. As I assured the attorney general, I will not interfere or exert pressure on his decisions. Let the law independently guide the process." Nevertheless, he did attempt to broker a deal to secure a more lenient punishment, which ultimately was rejected by the Attorney General's Office. Nicolas Petro Money Laundering Case Colombia authorities first learned of Nicolas Petro's alleged wrongdoing after Daysuris del Carmen Vasquez revealed incriminating details in an interview with the local news magazine Semana, the Daily Mail noted. Vasquez acknowledged being present during meetings where her former husband received $150,000 from Samuel 'The Marlboro Man' Santander, a former politician who had served 18 years of a 25-year prison sentence in the United States for drug trafficking. She also recalled Nicolas Petro accepting $103,000 from Alfonso 'Turco' Hilsaca, a Cartagena businessman with ties to Los Rastrojos, a drug cartel and paramilitary group, and funds from oscar Camacho, a well-known businessman from Cucuta. According to Vasquez, Nicolas Petro used the money for various purchases, including a mansion, a condominium, and a Mercedes Benz SUV. She discovered his intentions when she had issues with her vehicle, and Nicolas Petro texted her, saying, "I am not going to buy another car because we are going to use that money to buy a house." While the couple had signed a promise-to-purchase contract and put down 60 percent of the home's value, Vasquez eventually opted out of the deal for "obvious reasons." READ MORE: Colombia Deforestation Drops by 29% This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Bert Hoover WATCH: Colombia: President Gustavo Petro's Son Arrested On Money Laundering Charges - From Firstpost A Texas high school is getting some criticism after barring a reigning homecoming queen from crowning her successor for wearing a stole to show off her Mexican heritage during her graduation ceremony. Kayleigh Craddock graduated from the Brazosport High School in Freeport, Texas last May and she wore a stole representing her Mexican heritage. However, the school did not like her wearing the stole and called her family to tell them that she was no longer welcome to attend the school's next homecoming to crown her successor. Craddock's mother, Cynthia Vasquez, spoke with CNN and told the network that her 18-year-old daughter was excited to go back to her former high school and participate in the tradition of crowning the next Homecoming Queen. However, that excitement has since faded after the school informed the family that she was not welcome. The Brazosport Independent School District released a statement to CNN and said, "The student was asked to comply with the dress guidelines and refused." The statement added, "The graduate was homecoming queen last school year, however, because of the insubordination at the graduation ceremony last May, the graduate was not invited back to participate in the crowning of this year's Homecoming Queen." However, Vasquez disputed this claim and said that her daughter was last in line on graduation day, and a teacher approached her about the stole and only told her to tuck it into her gown. The mother also stated that other students were also wearing stoles and felt that her daughter was being singled out and punished. She added that the family should have been informed about the school's decision sooner. Texas Homecoming Queen Says She Did Not Break School's Dress Code With Mexican Heritage Stole Meanwhile, Kayleigh Craddock herself is defending wearing the Mexican Heritage Stole during her graduation and insists she did not break the school's dress code. The student, who is now a freshman college student at Sam Houston State University, spoke with KHOU-11 and said that she was proud to wear her Mexican heritage stole to accept her diploma. "I wanted to represent my culture. I love being Mexican and I will forever be proud," she told the news channel. She added that if she had been told not to wear it, she would have removed it. READ MORE: Joe Arpaio's Racial Profiling Against Latinos Will Cost Taxpayers Over Quarter Billion Dollars "I wouldn't have brought it if it was out of dress code," she said. "I wouldn't have brought it period." She added that she was actually told that wearing the stole was OK and is hoping that the school district will change its mind. "I was never told to take it off. It's on video. They have video. The whole thing is recorded. There's pictures, everything," she explained. "There's a teacher at each row, he never told me anything." League of United Latin American Citizens Slams Texas School District Over Actions The actions of the Brazosport Independent School District also caught the attention of one of the biggest Latino groups in the US, the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC). The Hispanic rights advocacy group then released a statement slamming the district's decision regarding Craddock. Sergio Lira, the president of Greater Houston LULAC Council 4967, called the decision "pure nonsense" and a "flagrant act of discrimination." He added that they are now upset that this has happened during Hispanic Heritage Month in particular. Lira added, that "It just seems to be a continuous slap in the face to our culture. And the insensitivity of the school officials to allow this or to tolerate this type of behavior, it's just unacceptable." READ NEXT: Paul Gosar Staffer Linked to Neo-Nazi Nick Fuentes This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: Homecoming queen stands ground, says she didn't break dress code during graduation - KHOU-11 Cartel violence has gripped northern Mexico as up to a dozen bodies were found around Monterrey in possible gang killings that may be a purge of members from a local Mexican drug cartel. The bodies were found by Mexican authorities dismembered and placed in seven separate sites all over the city. This discovery has rocked Monterrey, which has seen a significant drop in violence over the last few years, with businesses flocking to the city considered the industrial and business capital of Mexico. Monterrey has recently become a technological hub in Mexico, with Tesla announcing that it would open a huge car factory in the city in 2024. However, the killings showed that gang violence is still pretty much present there. Several drug cartels vied for control of Monterrey during the early 2010s, with violent acts such as leaving the bodies of their victims hanging on bridges or leaving body parts next to signs being a common practice among these Mexican gangs. This is usually an attempt to scare their rivals. According to the BBC, local media have reported that the remains were found on Tuesday and they were all next to signs that said that there were attempts to infiltrate a local cartel. These signs were signed by the Cartel del Noreste, better known as the Northeast Cartel. Photos of the messages were released by the local media and these photos from the killings were also shared via social media, though police did not confirm whether these messages were authentic or not. Police have also not confirmed which cartel was behind these grisly Mexico gang killings, but they did say that it was done by a cartel from the neighboring state of Tamaulipas. This hinted that it was indeed the Northeast Cartel, which is based in Tamaulipas. READ MORE: Mexico: 11 Police Officers Found Guilty of Killing 17 Migrants Near US-Mexico Border Likely Internal Conflict Leads to Mexico Gang Killings in Monterrey Mexican authorities have stated that the attack appeared to be a coordinated one. It was reportedly "sparked by an internal conflict within a criminal group based in the bordering state of Tamaulipas." Reuters reported that Pedro Jardon, the attorney general of Nuevo Leon state where Monterrey is, spoke with reporters on Tuesday regarding the gang killings. "From the messages that were left (near the bodies), there's a correlation," Jardon said. The messages from the Northeast Cartel that were shown by the local media stated that the criminal group may have been infiltrated. No other details about this have been revealed yet. What Is the Northeast Cartel, the Group Allegedly Behind the Latest Mexico Gang Killings in Monterrey? The Cartel del Noreste, or the Northeast Cartel, is based in Tamaulipas and is said to have been founded by former members of the notorious Zetas Cartel, one of the biggest and most violent drug cartels in Mexico. Juan Gerardo Trevino Chavez, the cartel's alleged leader, was arrested by Mexican authorities back in March 2022. He was subsequently deported to the US but still, the gang continued to operate in Tamaulipas and its neighboring states. The cartel is known for extorting migrants heading for the US-Mexico borders and pressuring migrant shelters, according to a report by Insight Crime. The group operates unimpeded by rivals or authorities in several areas in northern Mexico. READ MORE: Mexico Shuts Down 23 Pharmacies After US Warns of Fake Pills Laced With Fentanyl This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: Locals fight with Mexican soldiers after killing of five men | Al Jazeera English The Trump Organization, Donald Trump's company and his real estate empire could soon collapse after a New York judge found him liable for fraud. Trump was found to have falsely reported the size of his properties and inflated its value thereby defrauding banks and lenders. Because of this, one of the world's most famous real estate empires could collapse "like falling dominoes," as explained by Trump's former attorney, Michael Cohen. Cohen explained that his former client is already effectively "out of business" in New York after the judgment handed by Judge Arthur Engoron on Tuesday. The judge not only found Trump liable for fraud but also rescinded the licenses of the Trump Organization and other companies owned by Trump and his two adult sons, Eric Trump and Donald "Don Jr." Trump Jr. "Those companies will end up being liquidated ... the judge has already determined that the fraud existed," Cohen said during an interview with CNN. According to Yahoo! News, New York Attorney General Letitia James is seeking $250 million in damages against Trump. However, Michael Cohen said it could be higher, exceeding $600 million after interest and penalties. Donald Trump's Lawyers Will Appeal Trump Organization Fraud Case It did not take long for Donald Trump to attack the judge and brand him a "political hack," with the former president adding that Judge Engoron "must be stopped." The next day after the ruling, the Trump legal team asked the judge if his decision meant that the former president's assets and businesses must be sold or whether they could "continue to operate under receivership." To this, the judge stated that he would address the issue during the trial that will begin on October 2. READ MORE: Donald Trump Repeatedly Said 'Hang' While January 6 Rioters Chanted 'Hang Mike Pence' Trump's attorneys stated that they would be filing an appeal regarding the rescinding of the licenses and the appointment of receivers. They would also appeal the judge's ruling and assertion that the former president and the company's executives lived in a "fantasy world" of routinely, repeatedly, and illegally overvaluing property values and his personal net worth. However, The Guardian noted that should these appeals be unsuccessful, this could mean the total collapse of Donald Trump's businesses and him being banned from doing business in New York where he makes the most money. Donald Trump Also Loses Bid To Have Judge Recuse Herself Donald Trump is not just losing in New York with the Trump Organization fraud case, but he is also losing in Washington DC with the federal election interference case. This is because the ex-POTUS's request to have Judge Tanya Chutkan recuse herself has been denied. According to CNBC, Trump's attorneys argued that the Obama appointee made "disqualifying" statements about him during two cases regarding the January 6 Capitol Insurrection. However, the judge rejected the argument and wrote, "The court has never taken the position the defense ascribes to it." "Based on its review of the law, facts, and record, the court concludes that a reasonable observer would not doubt its ability to uphold" her judicial oath to be fair to defendants, the judge wrote in her 20-page opinion. READ MORE:Donald Trump Co-Defendant Jenna Ellis Turns On Ex-POTUS, Calls Him a 'Malignant Narcissist' This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: Trump Org. tries to figure out the future of its business after fraud ruling - CNN The search for seven Mexico kidnapped teens in the north-central Mexican state of Zacatecas took a tragic turn on Wednesday. Search teams discovered six lifeless bodies and one survivor in a remote area, AP reports. According to state prosecutors, the surviving young man was found with severe head injuries, but his condition is stable. While the bodies of six young men were located nearby, authorities have not yet confirmed if they are the same youths who were abducted from a farm on Sunday. Local media reports had initially indicated that armed individuals abducted seven young men, aged 14 to 18, from their homes in Villanueva on September 24, according to Reuters. Zacatecas is known for high levels of violence, with rival criminal groups frequently clashing over profitable smuggling routes. To identify the bodies, they will need to be transported from the remote location to the state capital. The relatives of the victims had been protesting earlier in the week, demanding that the authorities locate their loved ones. This distressing incident is sadly not isolated. Throughout this year, there have been several instances of mass abductions involving young people in Mexico. READ NEXT: Mexico Gang Killings Authorities Urge Vigilance Following the Discovery of Mexico Kidnapped Teens In response to this latest development, local authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, per BNN. Collective efforts are essential to enhance security in the region, given the mounting security concerns in Central Mexico. This tragic incident underscores the immediate need for strengthened security measures and an improved legal framework. It serves as a stark reminder of the potential threats facing the region and the urgency to address them effectively. Now, the authorities face the challenging task of unraveling the circumstances surrounding this horrifying incident. The investigation aims to determine the cause of the deaths and identify the individuals or groups responsible. The survivor's account is expected to be crucial in shedding light on the incident and potentially leading investigators to those responsible for this tragedy. Several Mass Abduction Has Been Recorded in Mexico This Year Sadly, this recent incident is part of a series of mass abductions that have occurred in Mexico this year, The San Diego Union-Tribune noted. A disturbing video circulated on social media in August, capturing the final moments of five Mexico kidnapped teens in the neighboring state of Jalisco. The video depicted bound, lifeless bodies and a youth who seemed to be responsible for the gruesome act. Tragically, in Mexico's history, drug cartels have, at times, compelled kidnap victims to turn against each other, such as the case in 2010 when a cartel abducted individuals from passenger buses and forced them to fight to the death using sledgehammers. In Jalisco, Mexico, up to eight young workers lost their lives in May after attempting to quit their jobs at a call center operated by a violent drug cartel involved in a real estate scam which had targeted Americans. READ MORE: Authorities Launch Manhunt for Tren de Aragua Leader This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Bert Hoover WATCH: Anger in Mexico Over Disappearance Of 5 Youths | Mexico News | Missing Youths In Mexcio | N18V - From CNN-News 18 Outgoing Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley announced that he has taken "appropriate measures" to ensure his safety. The announcement came as he was recently threatened by former President Donald Trump who suggested that the US Army general should be executed over his comments disparaging the ex-POTUS. Trump has had a history of threatening opponents. While he himself has not carried out attacks on these threats, his supporters have often taken his calls to violence seriously and taken things into their own hands. Examples include a January 6 rioter who was arrested with explosives near former President Barrack Obama's home after Trump revealed the location where the Obamas were living in Washington DC. Of course, the most infamous example is January 6 where Trump is accused of whipping up the mob to storm the Capitol and "Hang Mike Pence." Milley was nominated by Trump himself to be the chairman of the Joint Chiefs. However, he and the then-president had a lot of disagreements, with Milley growing concerned about Trump's attempts to hold onto power after losing the 2020 election to Joe Biden. Lately, Milley accused the former president of belittling a disabled veteran during his swearing-in ceremony. The general picked a wounded veteran and war hero to perform, but Trump was reportedly unhappy with the choice. The general was then subjected to a wave of attacks from Trump on social media, calling him a "woke train wreck," accusing him of treason, and calling for his execution. READ MORE: Donald Trump Belittled Disabled Veteran, Says Gen. Mark Milley What Did Donald Trump Say About General Mark Milley? When it was announced that Gen. Mark Milley would be leaving his post soon, Donald Trump took to Truth Social to gloat and say, "This will be a time for all citizens of the USA to celebrate!" He then called the general a "Woke train wreck who, if the Fake News reporting is correct, was actually dealing with China to give them a heads up on the thinking of the President of the United States." However, in that same post, he then said, "This is an act so egregious that, in times gone by, the punishment would have been DEATH!" However, such a comment could also land Trump in legal trouble, according to Yahoo! News. The threats may be a violation of his release conditions ahead of his two big federal criminal trials in Florida and DC. In both of those cases, he was warned to avoid publicly attacking court officers and potential witnesses on social media. Milley is a potential witness for the Mar-a-Lago documents case. MAGA Republican Paul Gosar Goes Also Suggested Gen. Mark Milley Should Be Hanged It was Trump issuing threats against General Milley, his ally, and Arizona Rep. Paul Gosar. The far-right MAGA Republican recently went on what can be called a "homophobic rant" where he also said that the general deserved to be "hung." Gosar reportedly called Milley "the homosexual-promoting-BLM-activist Chairman of the military joint chiefs," according to Arizona Central. The Arizona representative added unproven conspiracies in his rant, saying, "Of course, we now know that the deviant Milley was coordinating with Nancy Pelosi to hurt President Trump, and treasonously working behind Trump's back" before adding "In a better society, quislings like the strange sodomy-promoting General Milley would be hung." READ MORE:Donald Trump Co-Defendant Jenna Ellis Turns On Ex-POTUS, Calls Him a 'Malignant Narcissist' This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: Gen. Mark Milley makes first public response to Trump comments - CBS Evening News The WGA strike may be over, but Hollywood still has to deal with the striking actors of SAG-AFTRA. In light of the WGA deal, Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, which represents the big Hollywood studios, has now agreed to meet with the actors union. SAG-AFTRA released a comment regarding the resumption of talks, saying, "SAG-AFTRA and the AMPTP will resume negotiations for a new TV/Theatrical contract on Monday, Oct. 2. Several executives from AMPTP member companies will be in attendance." Currently, over 160,000 actors, from big-name Hollywood A-listers to unknown extras who are struggling financially, are on strike to protest various practices that certain big Hollywood studios are proposing. This new announcement means that this is the first time in months that the union will be sitting down with the AMPTP. According to Deadline, SAG-AFTRA has been on strike for over 76 days now as the union failed to reach a deal on a new contract with the AMPTP-represented Hollywood studios. For now, SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree Ireland is away on business but will be back on Monday when the negotiations resume. It was reported that after the WGA deal was reached, the SAG-AFTRA picket outside Disney and Warner Brothers were noticeably thinner. However, actors remain optimistic that the SAG-AFTRA strike will be ending very soon. SAG-AFTRA Says Fight Not Yet Over While the writers finally got their deals and are celebrating, allowing several talk shows, including late-night comedy shows, SAG-AFTRA has made it clear that their fight against the studios is not yet over. Los Angeles, our fight isn't over it's just heating up! We're committed to securing a fair contract because we deserve nothing less. Let's keep pushing, keep fighting, and show the world our determination! pic.twitter.com/bOHA3EBkXw SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) September 27, 2023 READ MORE: SAG-AFTRA and WGA Strike: Why Are Hollywood Actors and Writers Picketing? In a statement, the actors union promised, "Los Angeles, our fight isn't over - it's just heating up! We're committed to securing a fair contract because we deserve nothing less. Let's keep pushing, keep fighting, and show the world our determination!" While most of those affected by the strike are lesser-known actors and extras who barely earn anything with the advent of streaming platforms, several big-name celebrities have joined the picket lines, from Pedro Pascal and Jack Black to the cast of Breaking Bad. What Did the WGA Get To End Their Strike? As SAG-AFTRA readies itself for negotiations to resume, the WGA is declaring victory with its deal. This begs the question, what did they receive? According to the Associated Press, the writers union negotiated new residual payments based on the popularity of streaming shows. This means that writers will get bonuses for being a part of the most popular shows on the big streaming platforms such as Disney+, Netflix, and HBO Max. Writers also get protections against AI taking over their jobs. getting the regulation and control of the emerging technology they had sought. The new contract stated that AI-generated storylines will not be regarded as "literary material," which is a term in their contracts for scripts and other story forms a screenwriter produces. AI-generated stories also cannot be considered "source" material per the contract. While late-night talk shows are set to return as early as Monday, scripted shows are expected to take longer to come back because of the actors strike. READ MORE: Florida 'Openly Hostile Toward African Americans,' Warns NAACP This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: Actress reveals how much she just made from a top Netflix show - CNN Interfax-Ukraine to host discussion 'Internal political situation in autumn factors and subjects of its formation' On Monday, October 2, at 12.00, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine News Agency will host a discussion "Internal political situation in autumn factors and subjects of its formation." Participants include political expert Kostiantyn Matviyenko; Chairman of the Board of the Center for Applied Political Research "Penta" Volodymyr Fesenko; political scientist, co-founder of the "National Platform for Sustainability and Cohesion" Oleh Sahakian (8/5a Reitarska Street). The event will be streamed on the Interfax-Ukraine YouTube channel. Admission of journalists requires registration on the spot using editorial IDs. The Indiana murder suspect, Kevin Mason, who was mistakenly released from a detention center in Indianapolis due to a clerical error two weeks ago, has been captured in St. Paul, Minnesota, according to the Marion County Sheriff's Office. Mason, 28, was apprehended around 2 PM ET by the US Marshals Service, which had been conducting a manhunt for him since his erroneous release, CNN reported. Marion County Sheriff Kerry J. Forestal expressed his gratitude to the USMS for their efforts in safely returning Mason to custody. He also commended the collaboration and resources provided by federal partners and their task force partnerships with local law enforcement agencies that facilitated the pursuit of Mason across the country. Kevin Mason's initial arrest in Indiana on September 11 was in response to three Minnesota warrants, one of which involved suspicion of murder in connection with a 2021 shooting in Minneapolis. The other warrants were related to an alleged parole violation and firearms possession. READ NEXT: Indiana Murder Suspect Accidentally Released Indiana Murder Suspect's Accidental Release The accidental release of Indiana murder suspect Kevin Mason from the Adult Detention Center in Indianapolis occurred on September 13, only days after his arrest in connection with the 2021 killing of Dontevious Catchings in Minnesota. An inmate records clerk mistakenly cleared two of the holds, and Minnesota authorities removed the last hold, unaware that the other two had already been lifted, per Fox News. In response to this grave error, two employees of the Marion County Sheriff's Office have been terminated. Authorities became aware of Mason's release within hours but intentionally withheld this information from the public for six days, aiming to maintain a tactical advantage during the manhunt. During the manhunt, Mason received assistance from Desiree Oliver, 29, who is believed to be his girlfriend. Oliver, a nurse, was subsequently arrested on one count of assisting a criminal. Kevin Mason Alleged Girlfriend Faces 6 Years Jailtime Desiree Oliver could face one to six years in prison after being accused of aiding a criminal, despite the fact that the man she allegedly assisted was erroneously released from jail due to MCSO staff's error. Court documents reveal that Mason was at Oliver's home on E. 31st Street when he was arrested on September 11, FOX 59 noted. Additionally, court documents disclose that Kevin Mason called Oliver upon learning of his release on the same day and requested her to pick him up. Oliver's response, "They let you out?" indicated surprise, as investigators reported. While the documents indicate that Oliver spoke to Mason via telephone during his brief incarceration, they do not definitively conclude that she was aware of the severity of his charges. The court records show that Oliver admitted to dropping Mason off near the Keystone Fashion Mall after his release from jail. The Indiana murder suspect, Kevin Mason, used her phone to contact an unknown individual. Text messages on her phone included inquiries from Mason about tracking, the status of her phone, and plans for future in-person meetings. Investigators accused Oliver of initially providing false information to the police when they visited her home on E. 31st Street on September 13. Traffic cameras recorded her vehicle picking up Mason after his release. Desiree Oliver now faces a Level 5 felony count of assisting a criminal, a charge that carries a potential sentence of up to six years in prison. READ MORE: Colorado Authorities Find Remains of Suzanne Morphew This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Bert Hoover WATCH: Murder suspect Kevin Mason arrested in St. Paul 2 weeks after accidental release from jail - From WCCO - CBS Minnesota On the heels of approval to open its first regional site in Lower Macungie, Southern-based chicken chain Raising Canes is already eyeing a second location. The popular Louisiana-based chain wants to open its next eatery on the property of the former Friendlys at 1836 Catasauqua Road in Hanover Township, Lehigh County. Friendlys shuttered in December 2022 at the site, near the Airport Road Shopping Center. The closure left just one regional location still in operation in the Trexlertown section of Upper Macungie. Raising Canes representatives appeared Sept. 19 before the townships planning board and received a favorable recommendation. Representatives are back before the Hanover Township Zoning Hearing Board Thursday evening seeking variance approval for an encroachment into a side yard setback and special exception approval for the joint use of common parking lot spaces on the property, said Melissa A. Wehr, township manager and zoning officer. If successful with zoners on those two requests, Wehr expects Raising Canes to begin the land development approval process on the Friendlys property, she said. The chain was green lit in August by the Lower Macungie Planning Commission to build their first regional franchise at the Trexler Business Center, along Hamilton Boulevard. Construction is expected to begin within the next few weeks on the project. It includes a double drive-thru, 27 parking spaces, and both indoor and outdoor dining, totaling roughly 92 seats, Nathan Jones, the townships director of community development, told lehighvalleylive.com Thursday. Jones expects a quick opening for Raising Canes once construction is complete. They have mentioned all along the goal is to open, ASAP, he said. Presumably, once work commences, they will work to open the location as quickly as they are able. Raising Canes in Lower Macungie also becomes the last tenant needed for Jaindl Land Co.s Trexler Business Center, which gained approval by planners in 2016. The shopping center just east of the Walmart Supercenter at Mill Creek Road sits on 17 acres. Plans include the construction of five new businesses to join an existing Bastian Carpet One. To date, Movie Tavern, a cinema-restaurant, was constructed around 2018 on the property. Also built were the First Commonwealth Credit Union Headquarters and a First Commonwealth Credit Union branch. A 2,030-square-foot Wawa also currently is being constructed on the site and is a drive-thru food service establishment only. There are no gas pumps. Nationally, Raising Canes has more than 700 locations in various states with the next closest sites to the Lehigh Valley being in lower Bucks County and Philadelphia areas. The company also is aggressively expanding into New Jersey. Raising Canes is known for its hand-battered chicken, which marinates for 24 hours before being cooked to order. Crew members, known as bird specialists, hand-dip and bread the chicken fresh for every order. This means the eatery does not use heat lamps, the website states. Patrons, called caniacs, can choose from either chicken sandwiches or tenders. Sides include crinkle-cut fries, Texas toast and coleslaw. Theres also a secret dipping sauce, known as Canes Sauce, which comes tangy but with just enough heat to spice things up, according to the menu. Choices are paired with the chains signature iced tea, which is brewed fresh several times a day, freshly-squeezed lemonade, or other fountain soft drinks. The chain was founded in 1996 by entrepreneur Todd Graves of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Restaurants are named after Raising Cane I, Graves yellow Labrador at the time of the founding of the first eatery. Graves also mentions on the chains website, in an effort to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs, that his business plan of just selling chicken fingers received the lowest grade in a college course. Raising Canes later grew from a single campus restaurant at the North Gates of Louisiana State University to one of the fastest-growing large restaurant brands nationally. Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust. Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. A close encounter of the theatrical kind kicked off the 2023 Festival Unbound on Wednesday night in Bethlehem. Started in 2019, the celebration of arts and theater put on by Southside-based Touchstone Theatre runs through Sunday across various venues in the city. For opening night, Bethlehems Town Hall meeting space and surrounding Payrow Plaza were transformed into an otherworldly spectacle of lights, sounds and costumed characters. Take a look through the photo gallery above for some glimpses. The rest of the five-day festival offers arts-infused events, performances and hands-on workshops, featuring the visual arts, live music, participatory dance, original theater, workshops and more. Visit touchstone.org for the full schedule of whats happening when and where. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com. Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Two Bucks County lawmakers have introduced a bill that they hope will help prevent suicides at Pennsylvanias parks and forests. State Reps. Kristin Marcell and Kathleen KC Tomlinson, both Republicans, have cosponsored legislation requiring suicide prevention information, including 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline information, to be posted at state parks and forest facilities across the Commonwealth. We hope more awareness can help save lives, Marcell said. Since 2010, 164 suicides have occurred in Pennsylvanias state parks and forests, she added. If there is even a small chance this action will result in a person choosing not to end his or her life, it is clearly a step worth taking. House Bill 1705 would require the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, which oversees Pennsylvanias 124 state parks and 20 forest districts, to prominently post information about the crisis line and suicide awareness in all state parks and forests throughout the Commonwealth. The lawmakers said that they were called to action after 21-year-old Lindsey Piccone died by suicide at Tyler State Park in Bucks County in 2016. We have come a long way in developing resources to assist those who are contemplating suicide, Tomlinson said. Studies show that when people think twice about suicide by receiving a text or a call or seeing a sign, the chances of them changing their mind increase. In honor of Lindsey, we need to show people that hope and help are available. The bill was referred to the House Human Services Committee where it currently awaits a vote. If you or someone you know is in crisis or at risk, support is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988. A Berks County man has been sentenced to six to 15 years in prison after driving drunk and causing a crash that killed a 26-year-old man in Upper Macungie Township, authorities said. Jonathan Richards 41, of Shillington, Pa., on Aug. 3 was convicted of all charges in the crash that killed Wadnor Jean Louis in January 2021. Charges included homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence; involuntary manslaughter; two counts of driving under the influence; and traffic offenses. The ruling came following a jury trial before Judge Anna-Kristie M. Marks, who delivered the sentencing Thursday, the Lehigh County District Attorneys Office said. Richards was driving the wrong way at 4:41 a.m. Jan. 17, 2021 on Hamilton Boulevard when he caused the crash along Farmington Road. Video surveillance footage showed Richards Jeep was traveling north in the southbound lanes when it struck Louis vehicle nearly head on. Richards blood-alcohol level was 0.24%, which is three times the legal limit in Pennsylvania, according to authorities. Louis was found by investigators deceased in his vehicle. Richards was seriously injured and taken to an area hospital for treatment. Louis cause of death was from multiple blunt force injuries and it was ruled accidental, the Lehigh County Coroners Office said. The case was investigated by Upper Macungie Police Lt. Cory S. Reader; tried by Senior Deputy District Attorney Richard D. Director; and assisted by Assistant District Attorney Tadd Turczyn. Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust. Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Two sisters in Warren County are finding a way to channel their grief into action against the nations ongoing opioid and fentanyl heath crisis. On Saturday, hundreds affiliated with the nonprofit group Lost Voices of Fentanyl gathered outside the White House to rally against fentanyl trafficking and bring attention to the nations need for new drug legislation. Joan Stohl, of Blairstown Township, and her sister Mary Ann Mckinney, of Washington Borough in Warren County, were among them protesting in memory of Stohls son Aaron Moyer who died of fentanyl poisoning in August 2020. Before then, Stohl said she didnt fully understand the dangers of fentanyl and scope of the epidemic. Its one of those things that doesnt matter until it happens to you, she said. Until then, I didnt know how bad fentanyl was or how bad the epidemic was and how hidden it was by the pandemic. Experts estimate more than 200,000 people have died due to fentanyl poisoning since 2020. But despite the growing number of deaths and commercials warning people to be aware of the dangers of fentanyl exposure in American communities, experts say deaths caused by the one pill will kill drug are not slowing, theyre rising faster than ever before. Preliminary data released by the Centers for Disease Control in April estimates more than 111,000 Americans died of fentanyl overdoses between April 2022 and April 2023 nearly double the number of fentanyl-related deaths (57,480) recorded in 2020. The nonprofit organization Families Against Fentanyl called the rate of deaths an all time high. Some states even saw one-year increases greater than 50% within the last year, the group said on Tuesday. In a ranking prepared by the group, New Jersey claimed the ninth spot (with 2,412 reported deaths) on a list of the 26 states with the highest number of fentanyl deaths, as recorded by FAF. Pennsylvania was not included in the list because the information could not be gathered, the group said. I wonder how many more deaths go unreported, Mckinney said. How many are just labeled overdose. She retired from teaching at Warren Hills Regional High School last year and joined the protest in memory of her former students who died of overdoses after graduating, and her sister and son who also struggle with addiction, she said. Her son has been sober for five years, she said. This just hits very close to home, she said. My God. Even in recovery, (my son) has attended three times as many funerals for friends who died of fentanyl poisoning or overdoses than Ive attended in my entire life. According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, two milligrams of fentanyl equal in weight to 10 to 15 grains of table salt is all it takes to kill an adult, earning it the nickname the one pill will kill drug. Popular street drugs often laced or entirely composed of fentanyl include, heroin, methamphetamine and cocaine, or its made to resemble popular prescription opioids and the ADHD medication Adderall. For Stohl, attending the rally in Washington, D.C. was cathartic. The invigoration I felt during that march it was like we were able to put our pain to a purpose, she said. In February 2024, a judge will also preside over a case against the man who sold her son Aaron Moyer the fentanyl that killed him. Moyer died in Michigan, which penalizes possession of less than 50 grams of fentanyl as a felony that could result in four years in prison and fines of up to $25,000, or both. Stohl said Moyers suspected dealer could face 10 to 23 years in prison if convicted on charges involving her sons death. Im not calling the guy a murderer. He only distributed the drug that led to Aarons death, she said. But I do hope that he gets what hes supposed to get. Moyer was sober for three years before he died, she said, and then hed hit a low point. He was one of the nonessential employees forced out of work by the COVID pandemic and he had a girlfriend and two young children to support. He was overwhelmed but he didnt want to die, Stohl said. I dont think he meant to die. He probably thought he was taking heroin, she said. There are so many other stories like his. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com. Glenn Epps can be reached at gepps@lehighvalleylive.com or glenn_epps_on Twitter. Lost Voices of Fentanyl is based in Colorado and spreads awareness about counterfeit drugs, illicit fentanyl, and self-harm, according to the groups website. The organization was founded by April Babcock. Some 30,000 members follow the group on Facebook. KYIV. Sept 28 (Interfax-Ukraine) The British International School, Ukraine (BISU) and the DIM group of companies have signed an agreement to create a modern educational space in the VITA quarter in Park Lake City, construction of the cluster is scheduled to begin next year. Co-founder of the Park Lake City project Andriy Mischenko clarified during a press conference at the Interfax-Ukraine agency, negotiations with the British International School began even before the start of the full-scale invasion. The war pushed back our plans, but did not stop them. The first step of our cooperation is the construction of the kindergarten and primary school Early Years Academy, which will start next year, he said. He clarified that the infrastructure of the VITA quarter includes its own kindergarten, primary, middle and high schools, campuses for teachers and children. While there is a war, which was preceded by a two-year global pandemic, we believe it is extremely important to provide children with a world-class education, which is provided by certified international teachers from BISU. Some of them remained with us in Ukraine. School and education have become unique symbols of resistance to Russian aggression. Our students is the growing generation that will restore the country, the nation and guide it to prosperity, said Olena Tovkun, member of the supervisory board and chairman of the BISU admissions committee. She added that for 26 years, BISU has consistently maintained British academic traditions and high standards of teaching. The first stage of the educational cluster from BISU, Early Years Academy, will be a two-storey building with a total area of 2,900 square meters. The academy is designed for 185 students. DIM plans to begin construction in 2024 and enter into operation in 2025. An area of 3 hectares has been reserved for the establishment of a secondary and high school at the next stages. Construction of the suburban business-class residential complex Park Lake City began in 2019. Among the advantages of the residential complex are a picturesque area with its own pond, stylish architecture and a park area with rare plants. After the start of the full-scale invasion, the first phase was put into operation, including four houses in the VITA quarter. The second stage of the complex, 12 buildings, is currently under construction. One of Annie Macmanus earliest musical memories is driving with her father. The Dublin-born DJ and broadcaster known by her stage name Annie Mac remembers being squished in the back of my dads Volkswagen Passat, four kids squished and listening to CDs, she told the PA news agency. Those memories, I feel [are] so vivid, musically. Macmanus, 45, grew up as the youngest of four children in an extremely musical household. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Annie Mac (@anniemacmanus) We always played instruments in our house I always describe it as we were like The Corrs, but ugly, Macmanus said, with a laugh. We played so many instruments my brother played the banjo, the guitar, this instrument called a bouzouki [a Greek stringed instrument]. My other brother played the accordion, the piano; I played the piano, guitar. My sister was like Lisa Simpson and just stayed in her room playing the saxophone. Our house was always f****** noise. Macmanus, who hosted the Radio Ones Dance Party for the BBC until 2021 and currently hosts the podcast Changes With Annie Macmanus, said that having older siblings was hugely influential in terms of shaping her musical tastes. She inherited traditional Irish music crossed with punk and rock from her brothers and sister. The Pogues was the biggest thing I have every Pogues album etched into my memory forever. Thin Lizzy, Christy Moore, a lot of traditional Irish music. My sister was the raver, she used to listen to pirate radio and she introduced me to electronic beats. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Annie Mac (@anniemacmanus) One early live show was particularly formative for Macmanus. I was 15, I remember getting permission from my parents to go into town and see Moloko. Roisin Murphy [Moloko] was her original band played in Whelans in Dublin, Macmanus said. She was so bonkers onstage she had a little loudspeaker and she had a dog basket which she curled up in halfway through the show. And afterwards, we had a lock-in with all of her family. She said this was quite a big moment for her, and added: As a young Irish girl, seeing someone like Roisin Murphy be so bonkers and brilliant and 100% herself was incredibly inspirational. And she moved to England, so it was like, Ooh thats what happens if you move to England. Now based in London with DJ husband Thomas Mackenzie Bell, whose stage name is Toddla T, and their two children, their household is still filled with music. Theres always radio wars in our house, she said, particularly when deciding what channel to play over breakfast. But she appreciates living with someone else whos equally into music: I like listening to different songs, I like hearing what hes going to put on and I think vice versa. Now, Macmanus is putting her love of music into a new channel a podcast with fellow DJ Nick Grimshaw, called Sidetracked with Annie and Nick. The weekly podcast by the BBC will cover up-to-date music news, and the duo will be joined by artists, friends, industry experts and listeners. It will be the week in music through our eyes, Macmanus, who has been friends with Grimshaw since 2006, explained. The foundation of the podcast is our friendship. Were going to come from the perspective of fans and friends, then we will bring in experts if we need to really dissect something or interrogate something, we can learn more about it with the listener. Grimshaw, 39, added: Annie and I have a WhatsApp group where we just gossip, cleverly called Into The Goss [a reference to beauty blog Into The Gloss]. And we talk about things weve seen at award shows or something weve seen a pop star post on Instagram Obviously were music fans, but were also fans of the culture around music and pop culture. So we were like, lets do a podcast, lets let everyone into the WhatsApp group. Macmanus said shes particularly excited about the podcast because theres no boundaries, and she and Grimshaw are not completely aligned in their tastes. She said: So if one of us vehemently thinks a song is terrible, then the other person can come in and be a bit of a counter to that. Plus, the duo have wide-ranging tastes. We are fans of pop stars or jazz, we can appreciate going to the Proms for a night, Grimshaw said. I think we should [be able to] bring all of that together and not be genre-specific. One thing we never got to do at Radio One was speak to older artists or heritage artists, or artists that didnt align with Radio One so its quite exciting that its not aligned to a network, and we can cover everyone from Ice Spice to Keith Richards. Sidetracked with Annie and Nick is available weekly on BBC Sounds from September 28. The finalists for this years County Kildare Chamber Business Awards, powered by Eirgrid, have been announced, with over 190 businesses battling it out in 13 categories, ranging Employee of the Year, Excellence in Communication, Diversity, Equality and Inclusion, to new categories like Net Zero Achievement and Excellence in the Community. Now in their ninth year the prestigious event which is organised by County Kildare Chamber with Eirgrid as Principal Sponsor, is widely seen as the benchmark for business success in the County. CEO Allan Shine said: We have received a record number of entries this year and I know it has been a real challenge for our judges to whittle down so many quality applications to the shortlist. We have incredible businesses across the county and these awards are here to celebrate them all. Our shortlist is made up of businesses of all sizes, from all sectors and from all parts of Kildare, reflecting the diversity of our countys economy. The finalists are an amazing showcase of the strength of Kildares business community. The 2023 County Kildare Chamber Business Awards will be a great opportunity to celebrate the outstanding successes and resilience of Kildare business. We are now looking forward to the next stage of the judging process with the overall winners to be announced at the Gala Awards evening. This year the event will be held on the 17th November in the Killashee Hotel when we will gather together to recognise and reward the best in Kildare business. To book your tables, and to avoid disappointment, please contact sinead@countykildarechamber.ie or phone County Kildare Chamber on 045-894074. The County Kildare Chamber Business Awards 2023 Excellence in Communications sponsored by Eirgrid General Paints Group Osborne SWAG.EU The Nude Wine Company Net Zero Achievement sponsored by Kildare Innovation Campus Ballymore Homes Irish Dog Foods Maynooth University The Culinary Food Group International Trade sponsored by Grant Thornton Irish Dog Foods Kerry Group Kildare Innovation Campus Mongey Communications Excellence in the Community sponsored by Colourtrend Intel Ireland OBrien Fine Foods Naas Racecourse The Curragh Racecourse Sustainable Development sponsored by AIB EVHACS Intel Ireland OBrien Fine Foods The Culinary Food Group Health & Wellbeing sponsored by The Killashee Hotel Barretstown Flexsource General Paints Group Malone and Co Accountants Innovation in Business sponsored by Walls to Workstations Hereworks Mongey Communications The Culinary Food Group Ventac Employee of the Year sponsored by Ladytown Business Park Applegreen - Monica Delmar CiviQ - Liadain von der Decken Killashee Hotel - Sinead Lawlor SWAG.EU - Wojtek Kaczor Best Emerging Business sponsored by LEO Kildare Annalee Delaney Photography EVHACS One More Thing PsycReality Best Performing SME of the Year sponsored by OKelly Sutton Chartered Accountants Barretstown RGN Electrical and Communications Ltd T&I Fitouts Walls to Workstations Best Performing Large Business of the Year sponsored by Osborne Glenveagh Properties Lifeline Ambulance Service MGS Ireland OBrien Fine Foods Excellence in Customer Service sponsored by Endress & Hauser Malone and Co Accountants Punchestown Racecourse The K Club Ventac Diversity, Equality & Inclusion sponsored by Kerry Glenroyal Hotel and Leisure Centre Osprey Hotel Palmerstown House Estate Fair Seas has published the results of its first Ocean Literacy Survey which highlights that 76% of people in Ireland believe lack of political will to protect or manage the ocean effectively is the greatest threat to Irelands seas. Ocean literacy is the understanding of our individual and collective impact on the ocean and its impact on our lives and wellbeing. This summer, almost 1,300 people provided their views on their relationship with the sea and a range of issues. Some of the key findings include: 98% of people surveyed support Marine Protected Area (MPA) designation to some degree. In total, 99% of respondents indicated that protecting the marine environment is either important or very important to them on a personal level. 76% of people selected lack of political will to protect/ manage the ocean effectively as the biggest threat to the ocean, this was followed by marine litter and plastic pollution (72%), overfishing (68%), climate change (59%) and destruction of habitats at the coast or in the sea (59%). Fair Seas is accelerating its campaign to protect, conserve and restore Irelands marine environment and has launched a national petition to have the Marine Protected Areas Bill enacted without delay. It is asking people to add their name and call on Irelands leaders to release strong legislation before the end of 2023. The coalition of Irelands leading non-governmental organisations and networks wants to see binding targets committing to effectively protecting 30% of the seas around Ireland by 2030, with 10% strictly protected. T he group is calling for stakeholder engagement at every stage, clear delivery timeframes and a robust management framework, with targeted, site-specific measures to ensure MPAs deliver for nature. Aoife OMahony, Campaign Manager with Fair Seas said: Progress is not fast enough, the MPA Bill was promised before the summer recess. We need to see this legislation published as soon as possible. It needs to be strong, legally binding and capable of doing the job it sets out to do. Hundreds of people took part in our Ocean Literacy Survey, spending at least 15 minutes sharing their views and concerns which adds up to more than two weeks in total - this alone demonstrates the personal commitment Irish people have to ocean conservation. Its significant that three-quarters recognised the lack of political action as a threat to our ocean and we are urging politicians to listen. We hope our new petition will again demonstrate that the electorate wants our elected politicians to act now. Together we can make a difference and safeguard our ocean for future generations. Fair Seas is accelerating its campaign to protect, conserve and restore Irelands marine environment and has launched a national petition to have the Marine Protected Areas Bill enacted without delay. Pictured are Jack ODonovan Tra, Fair Seas Communications Officer; Dolf Dhondt, Chairperson, Fair Seas Steering Committee; Aoife OMahony, Fair Seas Campaign Manager; and Dr Donal Griffin, Fair Seas, Marine Policy Officer. Pic: Domnick Walsh Irelands Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Week takes place until Sunday October 1st. In May, Fair Seas was named one of 26 SDG champions by the Minister Eamon Ryan TD. The organisations objectives align closely with SDG 14 which is concerned with Life Below Water. Dr Donal Griffin, Marine Policy Officer with Fair Seas said: The ocean is the worlds largest ecosystem and absorbs around a quarter of global annual CO2 emissions, however in many respects its health is in steep decline. The latest UN progress report states that destructive trends havent abated and that the ocean continues to be endangered by rising acidification, declining fish stocks and mounting plastic pollution. More concerted efforts to expand marine protected areas and coordinated global action is urgently needed. Strong MPA legislation should be prioritised as a matter of urgency. This legislation will provide the necessary certainty for all stakeholders, including fishers and offshore energy groups, all of whom have also expressed a desire to see this legislation moved forward effectively. Dr Stephen Comerford, Marine Policy Officer with the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, has welcomed the publication of the survey results and said: The survey shows unequivocally the public support for robust MPA legislation, and the sense of urgency felt by people who care for the marine environment. The threats faced by our seas are fully understood by the public and stakeholders alike, it just remains for the Government to engage meaningfully in delivering the MPA legislation in a timely and effective manner. To sign the petition visit https://only.one/act/30x30-ireland for more information about Fair Seas visit https://fairseas.ie/ The Government must push and empower local authorities to do more to use derelict properties to create new homes, Ivana Bacik has said. The Labour leader also called for people power as she urged the public to make the authorities aware of vacant or derelict sites that could be used for accommodation but may not be officially registered. M Bacik there was a lack of urgency from Government on utilising and redeveloping the sites as part of the efforts to address the housing crisis. Launching Labours national vacancy and dereliction campaign, the party leader highlighted that 5,000 homes in Dublin are laying vacant at the same time as hundreds of families are registered as homeless. She said it was scandalous and galling that almost 13,000 people were deemed homeless in the State when there was a huge amount of vacant and derelict homes nationwide. Its obvious to anyone who walks through the city apartment blocks lie empty with the wrapping still on mattresses, boarded up houses which could become homes for those who so desperately need it. Its certainly not unique to the capital either vacancy and dereliction is a national scandal, she said. While official figures understate the true scale of the problem, we know that nearly 200,000 homes lie vacant or derelict at any one time here in Ireland. A scandalous 37,000 homes have lain vacant since 2016. Imagine if Government actually put some focus into bringing these properties back onto the market as homes? As in many aspects of this Governments record on housing, the approach to vacancy and dereliction has been abysmal. It has been marked by short-termism and not delivery. Ms Bacik said her party was holding a day of action on Saturday to raise awareness of vacant and derelict properties at a local level and to urge the Government to tackle the issue in the budget. No politician should have to be reminded about the issue of homelessness when we see the numbers of persons huddling in porches and alleys in the surrounds of Leinster House, she said. Ms Bacik added: We are in the grips of the worst housing crisis in living memory. Where is the urgency to tackle this and to bring these vacant and derelict sites back into use for people and families? Land is a finite resource. Properties which are left vacant for a prolonged period should be compulsorily purchased and local authorities should be resourced to do so. Moreover, the State should leverage the institutional knowledge it has through the likes of An Post and auctioneers to ensure that the vacant and derelict sites registers are up to date. Thats what Labour is trying to do we are compiling a national database of vacant and derelict sites nationwide. Sites cannot be allowed to stay empty, particularly when their owners allow that state of affairs to continue so that they can speculate on the value of their property. There needs to be a step-change in housing provision. Our population is growing but housing supply does not even meet current need. Tackling vacancy and dereliction is key to making sure that everyone has a home. Only ideology not the economy is holding us back. A Department of Housing spokesman said addressing vacancy and maximising the use of existing housing stock is a primary objective of government. Tackling vacancy is a key priority for this government and a suite of measures has been introduced to address vacancy and increase the pace at which properties are brought back into use. The department said this includes the Croi Canaithe Towns Fund, the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant and the Ready-to-Build Scheme. Police in Ireland have made three further arrests in connection with a 157 million euro haul of cocaine seized when an elite army unit stormed a cargo ship off the Irish coast. Six men have now been detained for questioning about the largest drugs haul in the history of the Irish state. A total of 2,253kg of cocaine was found on the Panamanian-registered vessel in a major joint agency operation off the south-east coast of Ireland on Tuesday. On Wednesday evening, a further three men were arrested for alleged organised crime offences. They are detained at Garda stations in the Southern Region. Members of the highly trained Army Ranger Wing descended by fast-rope from a helicopter on to the MV Matthew as it tried to sail out of Irish waters and evade capture. The elite unit boarded the ship after the Irish Naval Services patrol vessel, the LE William Butler Yeats, fired warning shots in its direction after it failed to obey orders. The vessel had been under surveillance since Friday when a multi-agency operation responded to intelligence of a major international drug smuggling operation. Speaking at a media briefing in Dublin on Wednesday, a senior member of the Irish police described the operation as hugely significant. Assistant Commissioner with An Garda Siochana Justin Kelly said: I think its really important to note, this is the largest drug seizure in the history of the state. This is a hugely significant operation and it shows our unrelenting determination to disrupt and dismantle networks which are determined to bring drugs into our country. These groups are transnational groups. They are working all across the world and, because of that, we need to work with our international partners. He added: This is a huge hit for the people involved in this. Given the scale of the haul, Irish authorities do not believe the cocaine was solely destined for Ireland. They suspect the drugs were being transported from South America for distribution across Europe. The MV Matthew was escorted to Cork harbour on Tuesday. A fishing trawler that grounded off the coast of Co Wicklow late on Sunday was also being monitored as part of the operation, amid suspicions it was en route to rendezvous with the cargo ship. The vessel remains stuck on a sandbank out at sea with poor conditions preventing the authorities from boarding and searching it. It will be treated as a crime scene when it is accessed, police said. Three people, aged 60, 50 and 31, previously arrested during the course of the operation, remain in custody in police stations in Co Wexford on Wednesday. It has emerged that one of those arrested was medically evacuated off the MV Matthew before the military operation to seize it. The operation involved the Defence Forces, customs officers and the Irish polices national drugs and organised crime unit. Mr Kelly said the cocaine on the ship originated in South America. This product was supplied by a South American cartel, one of the murderous cartels that are behind cocaine shipments into Europe, he said. A shipment like this into Europe is partly destined for the Irish market. Obviously, with the size and intelligence we have, we know the organised crime group behind this comprises of a number of different elements across Europe. Asked if those on the cargo ship had tried to dispose of the cocaine by burning it or throwing it overboard, Mr Kelly said more information on this would be provided in the coming days. He said such a large shipment would not have entered the states waters without the involvement of an Irish gang. He said there are a number of gangs in Ireland with direct links to South America. There is no large ship like this coming into our waters or our ports or transiting across our country, without an Irish organised criminal group involved in it. There is an increase in the amount of cocaine available for a number of geopolitical reasons in South America. There is basically a glut of cocaine on the market, he said. And when you combine that with the increased consumption across Europe, Europe is now the biggest market for cocaine in the world. So when you combine those two things together, absolutely, its inevitable that were going to see organised criminal groups trying to leverage on that, make more money from it, as they always do in situations like this. Its inevitable that well see more large shipments. He said increased large shipments had also been seen in Antwerp and Rotterdam. Commander Tony Geraghty, fleet operations officer of the Irish Naval Service, explained why warning shots were fired at the cargo vessel before the boarding operation. The merchant ship refused to follow the instructions of our own ship, he said. So this was prior to the insertion of the Army Ranger Wing. There was an escalated use of force used to compel the vessel to follow the instructions of the ships captain. Cdr Geraghty said it had been an extremely complex joint operation involving the Naval Service, the Air Corps, the Army Ranger Wing and Defence Forces headquarters. He said the poor weather made the fast rope aerial boarding more complex. He said there was no evidence of the crew being armed when the Army Rangers boarded and took control of the vessel. This ship is very large, shes 190 metres long, with an exceptionally high freeboard. So very difficult to get on, he added. He said a great deal of skill was demonstrated by the Army Ranger Wing and helicopter pilot during high winds. Cdr Geraghty said the ship also altered course when the Army Rangers were initially trying to descend. The Naval Service, the Air Corps and the Army Ranger Wing rehearse for these type of operations. The Air Corps pilots are really top notch guys, theyre highly trained, he said. Whilst the environment is always dangerous the weather yesterday was very bad the operation was carried out in a successful manner. Gerry Harrahill, director general of customs in Ireland, hailed the professionalism and the resilience of those involved in seizing the ship. I had a personal opportunity last night down in Cork to meet with some of the teams involved, he said. While they were tired and exhausted, I think there was a real sense of having done a really good job and delivered a really good outcome. Canada Post issues new stamps to commemorate National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Survivors Circle guided stamps that encourage Canadians to reflect on the truth of residential schools BRANTFORD, ON, Sept. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - Today, Canada Post unveiled four new stamps that shed some light on the truth and legacy of residential schools, whose impacts are still felt by Indigenous Peoples today. The stamps ? being released on September 28 in connection with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30 ? are the second issue in the annual series for the future of truth and reconciliation. Featuring stark archival images of residential schools in different parts of Canada, the stamps serve as a reminder of the fear, loneliness, pain and shame experienced by generations of Indigenous children in these federally and church-created institutions. The stamp issue serves as a vehicle for truth about Canada's residential school system to help support the process of reconciliation and, ultimately, healing. The stamps were unveiled earlier today at the Woodland Cultural Centre in Brantford, Ontario. The centre was established in 1972 after the closing of the Mohawk Institute Residential School; a photograph of the Mohawk Institute is featured on the Official First Day Cover. Truth before reconciliation Canada Post worked closely with the Survivors Circle of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation this year on its annual Truth and Reconciliation stamp issue. The Survivors Circle stressed the necessity to address the truth before Canadians can collectively work toward reconciliation. Canada Post thanks the Survivors Circle for their guidance and collaboration. The residential schools and school residence featured on the stamps are Kamloops Residential School, Kamloops, British Columbia; Ile-a-la-Crosse Residential School, Ile-a-la-Crosse, Saskatchewan; Sept-Iles Residential School, Sept-Iles, Quebec; and Grollier Hall, Inuvik, Northwest Territories. About the stamps The stamp issue includes an Official First Day Cover (OFDC) and a booklet of eight Permanenttm domestic rate stamps. The front of the OFDC features the Mohawk Institute, in Brantford, Ontario ? the first school in Canada's residential school system. The cancel location is Ottawa, Ontario, the seat of the federal government, where policies of assimilation were created that forcibly separated Indigenous children from their families and communities. The stamp products will be available at canadapost.ca and postal outlets across Canada beginning on September 28, to commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30. The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line provides 24-hour support to former residential school students and their families. If you require support, please call 1?866?925?4419. For links to images of the stamps and other products, visit Details magazine and other resources: tmTrademark of Canada Post Corporation SOURCE Canada Post 27 september 2023 at 15:15 News published onand distributed by: Tampa General Hospital and Tampa Bay Economic Development Council Bring Together Industry Leaders to Accelerate Collaboration and Coordination Among Region's Health Care, Education, Research, Policy, and Biotech Organizations New Tampa Medical and Research District Advisory Committee Will Seek Partnerships, Attract Talent and Promote Tampa Bay as a Global Destination for World-Class Health Care. TAMPA, Fla., Sept. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tampa General Hospital (TGH), University of South Florida (USF) and the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council (EDC) announced the establishment of the Tampa Medical and Research District Advisory Committee, which consists of leaders in health care, education, technology, energy and real estate. The members, who met formally for the first time today, will focus on guiding and implementing the long-term strategy of the Tampa Medical and Research District. "The Tampa Medical and Research District is gaining a global reputation, drawing new businesses, recruiting world-class talent, fostering innovation and bringing a significant economic benefit to our region," said John Couris, president and CEO of Tampa General Hospital. "By forming this advisory committee, we're bringing together leaders from across industries to inform our overall strategy, facilitate collaboration and align opportunities with solutions." "We're honored to have this stellar lineup of business leaders on the advisory committee," said Craig Richard, president and CEO of the Tampa Bay EDC. "With their leadership and expertise guiding the strategic direction of the Tampa Medical and Research District, Tampa will soon be recognized globally as a destination for world-class health care and medical innovation." The advisory committee will serve as a catalyst for and facilitator of collaboration and coordination between the health care, education, research, policy, and biotech organizations of the region. Members will advise on industry trends, best practices, and strategies for long-term collaboration between district organizations. In addition, members and related organizations will promote the meaningful career opportunities and support recruitment of talent to fill the growing demands of the life sciences and health care sector in Tampa. Members of the committee include: John Couris , President and CEO | TGH , President and CEO | TGH Craig Richard , President & CEO | Tampa Bay EDC , President & CEO | Tampa Bay EDC Archie Collins , President and CEO | Tampa Electric , President and CEO | Tampa Electric Eric Eisenberg , SVP of University-Community Partnerships | University of South Florida , SVP of University-Community Partnerships | Dr. Paul Greenwood , Ph.D. | University of Tampa , Ph.D. | David Pizzo , West Florida Market President | Florida Blue , West Florida Market President | Gary Sasso , President & CEO | Carlton Fields , President & CEO | Lee Schaffler , Chief Portfolio Officer| Strategic Property Partners , Chief Portfolio Officer| Strategic Property Partners Daryl Shaw , CEO | Casa Ybor , CEO | Casa Ybor Lakshmi Shenoy, CEO | Embarc Collective The Tampa Medical and Research District houses a growing hub of world-class clinical care, academics, research, and biotechnology, anchored by one of the largest academic health institutions in the nation ? Tampa General Hospital and the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine. In January, TGH and USF Health announced a partnership with the Tampa Bay EDC to attract businesses and professional talent to the region and promote the benefits of the district, which is inspired by renowned medical districts in some of the nation's greatest cities. Based on a study by the Washington Economics Group, the district is expected to ultimately generate more than $8.3 billion in economic impact to the state of Florida every year and support more than 57,900 jobs. The health care industry is Hillsborough County's fastest-growing employment sector, adding more than 17,000 jobs since 2018. In the past decade, Hillsborough County's life sciences sector has transformed with the addition of global giants Bristol Myers Squibb, Johnson & Johnson, Amgen and Pfizer, as well as innovative younger companies such as Axogen, Vycellix, Morphogenesis and Versea Health. More than 80 colleges, universities, and specialized training providers in West Central Florida ensure a plentiful supply of talent in the pipeline to power the industry's growth. Today's meeting of the advisory committee is just the start of the conversation. The Tampa Medical and Research District Advisory Committee will meet on a regular basis to guide the long-term strategy of the district. ABOUT TAMPA GENERAL HOSPITAL Tampa General Hospital, a 1,040-bed, not-for-profit, academic health system, is one of the largest hospitals in America and delivers world-class care as the region's only center for Level l trauma and comprehensive burn care. Tampa General Hospital is the highest-ranked hospital in the market in U.S. News and World Report's 2023-24 Best Hospitals, with six specialties ranking among the top 50 best hospital programs in the United States. Tampa General Hospital has been designated as a model of excellence by the 2022 Fortune/Merative 100 Top Hospitals list. The academic health system's commitment to growing and developing its team members is recognized by two prestigious Forbes magazine rankings ? in the top 100 nationally in the 2023 America's Best Employers for Women and top 25 in Florida in the 2023 America's Best Employers by State. Tampa General is the safety net hospital for the region, caring for everyone regardless of their ability to pay, and in fiscal year 2021, provided a net community benefit worth more than $224.5 million in the form of health care for underinsured patients, community education, and financial support to community health organizations in Tampa Bay. It is one of the nation's busiest adult solid organ transplant centers and is the primary teaching hospital for the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine. With six medical helicopters, Tampa General Hospital transports critically injured or ill patients from 23 surrounding counties to receive the advanced care they need. Tampa General houses a nationally accredited comprehensive stroke center, and its 32-bed Neuroscience, Intensive Care Unit is the largest on the West Coast of Florida. It also is home to the Jennifer Leigh Muma 82-bed neonatal intensive care unit, and a nationally accredited rehabilitation center. Tampa General Hospital's footprint includes 17 Tampa General Medical Group Primary Care offices, TGH Family Care Center Kennedy, TGH Outpatient Center, TGH Virtual Health, and 21 TGH Imaging outpatient radiology centers throughout Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas and Palm Beach counties. Tampa Bay area residents also receive world-class care from the TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track network of clinics. To see a medical care professional live anytime, anywhere on a smartphone, tablet or computer, visit Virtual Health | Tampa General Hospital (tgh.org). As one of the largest hospitals in the country, Tampa General Hospital is the first in Florida to partner with GE Healthcare and open a clinical command center that provides real-time situational awareness to improve and better coordinate patient care at a lower cost. For more information, go to www.tgh.org. ABOUT THE TAMPA BAY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL The Tampa Bay Economic Development Council is the lead designated economic development agency for Hillsborough County and the cities of Tampa, Plant City and Temple Terrace. Established in 2009 as a partnership between the public sector and private corporate investors, the EDC works to advance a diversified local economy that is beneficial to all by attracting, expanding and retaining quality employers, a talented workforce and investment, focusing within targeted industry sectors, including Corporate Headquarters, Financial and Professional Services, Information Technology, Life Sciences, Defense and Security, Distribution and Logistics, and Manufacturing. The EDC exists because of the generous support of more than 100 corporations, Hillsborough County, and the cities of Tampa, Plant City and Temple Terrace. Media Contact: Beth Hardy, APR Media Contact: Michelle Bauer, CEcD, APR Senior Communications Specialist Chief Operating Officer (727) 510-6363 (cell) (727) 510-2524 (cell) [email protected] [email protected] SOURCE Tampa General Hospital 27 september 2023 at 17:38 News published onand distributed by: BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Turkiye will always support Azerbaijan in ensuring its territorial integrity and public security, Yalcin Topcu, chief adviser to the Turkish President, said, Trend reports. "Turkiye-Azerbaijan relations are experiencing a period of upswing in all spheres. The historical, cultural, religious, and linguistic unity existing between the two brotherly countries has entered a new phase. Today the whole world sees the technological, economic, and political development of Turkiye and Azerbaijan," he added. According to Topcu, Azerbaijan and Turkiye, being "one nation with two states", are closely interested in each other's problems and put the peace and prosperity of states in the region and around the world at the forefront. "Today, the alliance between Turkiye and Azerbaijan has changed the course of events in the region. In the second Karabakh war, the occupying Armenia could not withstand this resolute stance and just struggled. Karabakh, which had been under occupation for 30 years despite UN resolutions, was liberated by the Azerbaijani Army. However, the Armenian armed forces did not recognize the defeat and continued provocative and terrorist activities in Karabakh," the adviser stated. He noted that despite numerous warnings, Armenia, with the help of terrorist organizations, attacked Azerbaijani security forces and innocent civilians in order to give the region special status. For this reason, the Azerbaijani Armed Forces launched localized anti-terrorist activities in Karabakh, as a result of which Armenia and separatists supported by some states surrendered within less than 24 hours. Topcu also emphasized that Turkiye, as always, was with Azerbaijan to the end in the struggle for justice. "President of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in his speech at the UN, told the whole world about his support for Azerbaijan and that Karabakh is an integral part of Azerbaijan," he added. Topcu also wished God's mercy for 192 heroes who fell during anti-terrorist activities and healing for 512 veterans. PRINCIPAL TECHNOLOGIES ENGAGES OAK HILL FINANCIAL TO PROVIDE INVESTOR RELATIONS SERVICES VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - Principal Technologies Inc. (the "Company") (TSXV: PTEC.P), is pleased to announce that, subject to TSXV approval, it has engaged Oak Hill Financial Inc. ("Oak Hill"), a Toronto-based investor relations firm, to provide market awareness and investor relations services (the "Advisory Services") to the Company in compliance with TSXV policies. Jonathan Robinson is a partner with Oak Hill and will be responsible for activities related to the Company. The engagement agreement ("Agreement") with Oak Hill for Advisory Services is set for an initial three-month term (the "Initial Term"), effective September 25, 2023, with provisions for automatic renewals unless a written notice is provided by the Company or Oak Hill within five (5) business days of a monthly renewal. As part of the Agreement, Oak Hill will receive C$10,000 per month plus expenses pre-approved by the Company during the term of the Agreement. The Company has also agreed to compensate Oak Hill Asset Management ("OHAM") in cash on the gross consideration of any financing completed during the Initial Term or for a period of six months thereafter where funding is sourced from parties introduced by OHAM. Such fee will be calculated as four percent (4%) plus applicable taxes in cash of the gross amount sourced by OHAM and is payable on closing of such financing. Oak Hill currently has no direct or indirect interest in the securities of the Company, or any right or intent to acquire such an interest. The appointment of Oak Hill as an investor relations consultant of the Company remain subject to regulatory acceptance of applicable filings with the TSXV. About Oak Hill Oak Hill is a leading investor relations and financial advisory firm specializing in small cap companies. Oak Hill will increase awareness about the Company through its established relationships with registered investment professionals, investment advisors, and money managers focused on the small and micro-cap market space. This will allow the Company to build and maintain an informed investor audience in the Canadian marketplace. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Jerry Trent, Chief Executive Officer Principal Technologies Inc. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-looking statements: This press release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. This information and statements address future activities, events, plans, developments and projections. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, constitute forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Such forward-looking information and statements are frequently identified by words such as "may," "will," "should," "anticipate," "plan," "expect," "believe," "estimate," "intend" and similar terminology, and reflect assumptions, estimates, opinions and analysis made by management of the Company in light of its experience, current conditions, expectations of future developments and other factors which it believes to be reasonable and relevant. Forward-looking information and statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause the Company's actual results, performance and achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking information and statements and accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed thereon. Risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to vary include but are not limited to the availability of financing; fluctuations in commodity prices; changes to and compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including environmental laws and obtaining requisite permits; political, economic and other risks; as well as other risks and uncertainties which are more fully described in our annual and quarterly Management's Discussion and Analysis and in other filings made by us with Canadian securities regulatory authorities and available at www.sedar.com. The Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information or statements except as may be required. SOURCE Principal Technologies Inc. 27 september 2023 at 18:19 News published onand distributed by: BOARDWAVE APPOINTS ITS FIRST BOARD OF DIRECTORS, AS IT REACHES 1,000 EUROPEAN MEMBERS MILESTONE IN FIRST 18 MONTHS THE EXPERIENCED BOARD TEAM REPRESENTS A DIVERSE ECOSYSTEM OF HIGH-PROFILE SENIOR LEADERS ACROSS THE SOFTWARE AND INVESTMENT COMMUNITY LONDON, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Boardwave, the impact-led networking community for European software founders and CEOs, has today announced that it has appointed its first board of directors, assembling a line-up of industry heavyweights to help deliver on its mission across Europe. Today it announces Jonathan McKay, Leo Apotheker and Elona Mortimer-Zhika as new board members. They join Phill Robinson, founder and chief executive officer (CEO) at Boardwave, along with Kath Easthope as chief operating officer (COO), and are supported by an advisory committee and team of high calibre founding patrons. Each of the board directors bring a wealth of experience, leading companies through every stage of business growth, from start-up to established global sector leader. This latest announcement from Boardwave comes as the established community reaches a significant milestone of over 1,000 members since its inception in April 2022. Boardwave is a fast-growing network which brings together software entrepreneurs, founders and CEOs from across Europe and enables them to network, share ideas, experience and best practice, as well as make use of valuable mentorship in order to help accelerate their business growth. Through this approach, Boardwave aims to help build world-beating software companies, with the goal of enabling the European software industry to become a global leader and rival Silicon Valley. Phill Robinson, founder and CEO of Boardwave, commented: "This is an important and significant milestone in Boardwave's continued development and expansion. Elona, Jonathan and Leo represent a team of industry heavyweights of the highest calibre across the software sector and are each strongly aligned with our mission at Boardwave. Their combined energy and experience provide exceptional support for our growth objectives for the organisation. This best-in-class team demonstrates the weight of senior industry support behind the need to create an active ecosystem of software leaders across Europe." Boardwave board members announced today: Jonathan McKay is the new Boardwave chairperson. Jonathan has a distinguished career as an investor, board member and chair of a number of early to mid-stage businesses. Amongst other roles, he is chair of Forward Partners, a leading publicly listed venture capital (VC) firm. Jonathan will represent the interests of members who are founder-led and smaller VC-backed businesses. is the new Boardwave chairperson. Jonathan has a distinguished career as an investor, board member and chair of a number of early to mid-stage businesses. Amongst other roles, he is chair of Forward Partners, a leading publicly listed venture capital (VC) firm. Jonathan will represent the interests of members who are founder-led and smaller VC-backed businesses. Leo Apotheker takes a role as non-exec director (NED) after joining the Boardwave community very early on as a founding patron. He brings world-leading expertise, having previously been the CEO of SAP and Hewlett Packard. At SAP, Leo led its emergence as a global leading software company. He is also currently the chair at Syncron, Harvest and Eudonet, fast-growing enterprise software organisations. Since joining Boardwave, Leo has been advising and guiding pre-Series A and Series A start-up founders and CEOs. His guidance will be highly relevant to those members who are potential global champions with the goal of going public. Elona Mortimer-Zhika also joins Boardwave as NED. Elona is CEO of IRIS Software, one of the UK's most successful PE-backed software companies. Elona has been a patron of Boardwave since it was founded and represents mid to large European software companies that are PE owned. Under her leadership, IRIS has acquired 30+ businesses and delivered double-digit growth organically, entered the US market successfully, transitioned to a cloud platform business and has been recognised as a Great Place to Work. Prior to joining IRIS, Elona held several senior leadership roles in Big Four and PE-backed businesses, including Mavenir, Acision, Arthur Andersen and Deloitte. Phill Robinson is CEO and founder at Boardwave. Phill has 35 years' leadership experience in the software industry. He served in the management teams of a number of international software firms in both the US and Europe . He was CMO of Salesforce, before returning to the UK to lead PE-backed software businesses, including IRIS Software (UK), Exact (NL). Both had successful exits under his leadership. He remains a board director of Exact. He is also currently the chair of the software advisory board for Livingbridge, a UK private equity firm, strategic advisor and director to Upliift, and a member of the development board of Cure Parkinson's. is CEO and founder at Boardwave. Phill has 35 years' leadership experience in the software industry. He served in the management teams of a number of international software firms in both the US and . He was CMO of Salesforce, before returning to the UK to lead PE-backed software businesses, including IRIS Software (UK), Exact (NL). Both had successful exits under his leadership. He remains a board director of Exact. He is also currently the chair of the software advisory board for Livingbridge, a UK private equity firm, strategic advisor and director to Upliift, and a member of the development board of Cure Parkinson's. Kath Easthope joins the Boardwave board as a director, in her role as chief operating officer of Boardwave, responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Boardwave community. She is also the lead for Boardwave's diversity equity and inclusion ( DEI ) strategy. Kath joined Boardwave at the start of 2023, having most recently been CMO at a leading AI-marketing business which successful exited in 2022. She has a communications agency background and has run some of the UK & Europe's most successful public relations firms focused on the technology sector. Phill Robinson concluded: "The work we can do together will accelerate the software industry as a whole and create an incredible platform to support our founder and CEO community, as well as the incredible team of investors and advisors we have within our membership network." About Boardwave Boardwave is an impact-driven community of 1,000 European software founders and CEOs designed to help members accelerate their business growth, and to improve the overall position of Europe as a home for global software companies. Boardwave offers a programme of events, peer-to-peer mentoring and inspiration, as well as an online platform that connects European software CEOs for advice, insights, expertise and access to capital. It is also a campaigner for change across special interest areas including AI, Government engagement and DE&I. Software leaders, CEOs and Chairs can access the programme and platform at no cost. The Boardwave community is generously supported and funded by a network of Partners from across the software investor and advisory ecosystem. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2222137/Boardwave_Logo.jpg SOURCE Boardwave 27 september 2023 at 19:01 News published onand distributed by: SamanTree Medical announces new clinical data at recent medical congresses in prostate, lung, breast, and brain cancer surgery SamanTree Medical, a medical technology company specializing in innovative solutions to improve cancer treatment, is proud to announce new clinical data presented at recent medical congresses, where it showcased new results in four distinct medical indications. Separately, Professor Alex Mottrie, from Aalst, Belgium, performed a live bilateral nerve-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) with the Histolog to assess the margins of the resected prostate. The clinical results were presented at the European Society of Pathology congress (ECP) in four different indications, confirming the company's position as a frontrunner in RARP, lung biopsy, breast conserving surgery, and brain cancer surgery. The system was shown for each indication to enable the physician to perform real-time assessment during surgery, providing the surgeon a high level of confidence in distinguishing healthy vs. tumorous tissue. Clinical results highlights: RARP: Observational study (50 patients) with blind assessment that showed high performances comparable to NeuroSAFE (sensitivity 88% and specificity 98%) but with drastic time reduction (procedure time <10 minutes vs >50 minutes). Observational study (50 patients) with blind assessment that showed high performances comparable to NeuroSAFE (sensitivity 88% and specificity 98%) but with drastic time reduction (procedure time <10 minutes vs >50 minutes). Breast: Presentation of a breast atlas that was developed to train clinicians utilizing the company's proprietary AI algorithm. The images were obtained rapidly and relevant histopathological criteria, such as tissue architecture and cell features, were clearly observable to identify healthy or cancerous tissue. Presentation of a breast atlas that was developed to train clinicians utilizing the company's proprietary AI algorithm. The images were obtained rapidly and relevant histopathological criteria, such as tissue architecture and cell features, were clearly observable to identify healthy or cancerous tissue. Lung biopsy: Feasibility study showing impressive synergy with Next Generation Sequencing to ensure rapid identification of high cellularity tumor regions, complementing molecular profiling seamlessly. In the case presented, the cancer diagnosis timeframe was reduced from 5-7 days to 2-6 hours. Feasibility study showing impressive synergy with Next Generation Sequencing to ensure rapid identification of high cellularity tumor regions, complementing molecular profiling seamlessly. In the case presented, the cancer diagnosis timeframe was reduced from 5-7 days to 2-6 hours. Brain surgery: In this exploratory study, out of 50 diverse cases, the Histolog Scanner consistently allowed to identify abnormal versus normal tissue, often being the sole diagnostic tool required. "As a newcomer to SamanTree Medical, I have been truly impressed by the traction around the Histolog technology and the impact we have achieved in such a short time. Our success at these congresses highlights our commitment to innovation and patient-centered care, in perfect alignment with the latest published data," said Olivier Delporte, SamanTree's recently appointed CEO. At the ERUS23 congress, the Histolog Scanner was used by Professor Alex Mottrie during a live surgery from Florence. This demonstrated the easy integration of the technology in the surgical workflow, with rapid preparation and imaging. "It was very confirmatory to witness the Histolog Scanner in action during the ERUS. The congress has opened numerous doors for SamanTree Medical, and we're particularly excited about the upcoming creation of an advisory board dedicated to prostate. This board will feature internationally renowned Key Opinion Leaders in prostate cancer surgery, marking a significant step forward for us," concluded Olivier Delporte. About SamanTree Medical SamanTree Medical has developed a breakthrough medical imaging modality that enables new medical procedures to improve cancer treatment. The Histolog Scanner (CE marked) allows for high resolution imaging of the surface of fresh tissue. This new imaging modality is based on a novel ultra-fast confocal microscopy technology. It offers clinicians real-time assessment of fresh tissue; the clinician is one touch-on-the-screen away from visualizing cancerous cells immediately during surgery. It covers a broad range of surgical and diagnostic applications in oncology. The Histolog Scanner is commercialized in Europe and is an investigational device in the US. https://samantree.com 28 september 2023 at 06:05 News published onand distributed by: CoreLogic: US Mortgage Performance Remains Exceptionally Strong in July CoreLogic, a leading global property information, analytics and data-enabled solutions provider, today released its monthly Loan Performance Insights Report for July 2023. For the month of July, 2.7% of all mortgages in the U.S. were in some stage of delinquency (30 days or more past due, including those in foreclosure), representing a 0.3 percentage point decrease compared with 3% in July 2022 and a 0.1% increase from June 2023. To gain a complete view of the mortgage market and loan performance health, CoreLogic examines all stages of delinquency. In July 2023, the U.S. delinquency and transition rates and their year-over-year changes, were as follows: Early-Stage Delinquencies (30 to 59 days past due): 1.3%, unchanged from July 2022. (30 to 59 days past due): 1.3%, unchanged from July 2022. Adverse Delinquency (60 to 89 days past due): 0.4%, unchanged from July 2022. (60 to 89 days past due): 0.4%, unchanged from July 2022. Serious Delinquency (90 days or more past due, including loans in foreclosure): 1%, down from 1.3% in July 2022 and a high of 4.3% in August 2020. (90 days or more past due, including loans in foreclosure): 1%, down from 1.3% in July 2022 and a high of 4.3% in August 2020. Foreclosure Inventory Rate (the share of mortgages in some stage of the foreclosure process): 0.3%, unchanged from July 2022. (the share of mortgages in some stage of the foreclosure process): 0.3%, unchanged from July 2022. Transition Rate (the share of mortgages that transitioned from current to 30 days past due): 0.7%, unchanged from July 2022. U.S. mortgage performance held strong in July, with both overall delinquency and foreclosure rates still hovering near record lows. Only Idaho saw overall delinquencies rise year over year, but rates in that state remain very low. Meanwhile 16 metro areas posted slight annual delinquency upticks, a drop from the previous month, when 31 metros posted increases. With hurricane season in full swing in the late summer and early fall, some areas of the U.S. could see typical seasonal delinquencies rise later this year and into 2024. "Overall U.S. mortgage delinquencies remained near a record low in July, with the share of homes entering that status or progressing to later stages either unchanged or lower," said Molly Boesel, principal economist for CoreLogic. "Since most borrowers have substantial amounts of home equity, those who have locked in low mortgage rates that do enter later stages of delinquency will most likely not experience foreclosures." "And while home equity gains have slowed from their former rapid pace," Boesel continued, "CoreLogic projects that home price growth will pick up over the next year. Borrowers should continue to build equity over the coming months, even if at a more moderate rate." State and Metro Takeaways: Of U.S. states, only Idaho posted a small annual increase (up by 0.1 percentage points) in overall mortgage delinquency rates in July. Overall delinquency rates were unchanged year over year in Arizona and Utah. The remaining states' annual delinquency rates declined between 0.9 and 0.1 percentage points. In July, 16 U.S. metro areas posted an increase in overall year-over-year delinquency rates. The metros with the largest increases were Elkhart-Goshen, Indiana and Punta Gorda, Florida (both up by 0.5 percentage points) and Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida (up by 0.3 percentage points). In July, two U.S. metro areas posted an increase in serious delinquency rates (defined as 90 days or more late on a mortgage payment), while changes in other metros ranged from -1.5 percentage points to 0.0 percentage points. The metros that posted annual serious delinquency increases were Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida and Punta Gorda, Florida (both up by 0.4 percentage points). The next CoreLogic Loan Performance Insights Report will be released on October 26, 2023, featuring data for August 2023. For ongoing housing trends and data, visit the CoreLogic Intelligence Blog: www.corelogic.com/intelligence. Methodology The data in The CoreLogic LPI report represents foreclosure and delinquency activity reported through July 2023. The data in this report accounts for only first liens against a property and does not include secondary liens. The delinquency, transition and foreclosure rates are measured only against homes that have an outstanding mortgage. Homes without mortgage liens are not subject to foreclosure and are, therefore, excluded from the analysis. CoreLogic has approximately 75% coverage of U.S. foreclosure data. Source: CoreLogic The data provided is for use only by the primary recipient or the primary recipient's publication or broadcast. This data may not be re-sold, republished or licensed to any other source, including publications and sources owned by the primary recipient's parent company without prior written permission from CoreLogic. Any CoreLogic data used for publication or broadcast, in whole or in part, must be sourced as coming from CoreLogic, a data and analytics company. For use with broadcast or web content, the citation must directly accompany first reference of the data. If the data is illustrated with maps, charts, graphs or other visual elements, the CoreLogic logo must be included on screen or website. For questions, analysis or interpretation of the data, contact Robin Wachner at [email protected]. For sales inquiries, please visit https://www.corelogic.com/support/sales-contact/. Data provided may not be modified without the prior written permission of CoreLogic. Do not use the data in any unlawful manner. This data is compiled from public records, contributory databases and proprietary analytics, and its accuracy is dependent upon these sources. About CoreLogic CoreLogic is a leading global property information, analytics and data-enabled solutions provider. The company's combined data from public, contributory and proprietary sources includes over 4.5 billion records spanning more than 50 years, providing detailed coverage of property, mortgages and other encumbrances, consumer credit, tenancy, location, hazard risk and related performance information. The markets CoreLogic serves include real estate and mortgage finance, insurance, capital markets, and the public sector. CoreLogic delivers value to clients through unique data, analytics, workflow technology, advisory and managed services. Clients rely on CoreLogic to help identify and manage growth opportunities, improve performance and mitigate risk. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., CoreLogic operates in North America, Western Europe and Asia Pacific. For more information, please visit www.corelogic.com. CORELOGIC and the CoreLogic logo are trademarks of CoreLogic, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. 28 september 2023 at 08:15 News published onand distributed by: AvevoRx Expands Coverage Area to Include Alabama, Michigan The independent specialty infusion pharmacy is now licensed in 26 states, helping fuel its rapid growth and continued geographic expansion GREENSBORO, N.C., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- AvevoRx, a national, independent provider of specialty infusion pharmacy services, has announced its licensure in both Alabama and Michigan, adding to its nationwide geographic footprint. AvevoRx now holds licensure to provide treatment to patients in 26 states across the country, covering nearly 70 percent of the total U.S. population. "The more geographic area we cover, the better we can deliver on our mission to get advanced treatments to the patients who need them most." "Extending as far north in the Midwest region as Michigan, and as far south in the Southeast as Alabama, ensures more patients in both states can now access the specialized treatments they need with our signature care model of speed, service, simplicity," said Justin Dent, National Director of Pharmacy Operations for AvevoRx. "The more geographic area we cover, the better we can deliver on our mission to get advanced treatments to the patients who need them most." AvevoRx was founded in 2021 by a group of industry veterans with a combined 130 years of experience. The company has far outpaced typical market expectations through a mix of organic growth and strategic acquisitions since its inception. A truly national provider, AvevoRx expects its geographic expansion to continue throughout the U.S. well into 2024. "The vision for AvevoRx was to be a specialty infusion provider that delivered highly customizable treatment options to select patients facing various complex and chronic disorders without sacrificing service, speed, or simplicity," said AvevoRX Co-Founder Phil Rielly. "As we've grown geographically, we've established processes and operations built on those core principles to help scale our high-touch, high-service model nationally. Based on our early patient, payor, and referral source demand, the future is very encouraging." AvevoRx began as an organic startup in Greensboro, North Carolina in July of 2021. By November of that year, it acquired Mid Valley Health Services, a long-established infusion company based in Modesto, CA. In September of 2022, AvevoRx entered an agreement to acquire Access to Care, LLC, an independent home infusion pharmacy in Muncie, IN. Today, both companies operate under the AvevoRx name. Courtney Remley, co-founder, and head of Eastern U.S. sales for AvevoRx, added, "Our intentional expansion has allowed us greater reach geographically across much of the country while zeroing in on the greatest need for our services. We are only at the start of our journey." To refer a patient, or to get more information on the specialty infusion solutions provided by AvevoRx, call us at 877-AvevoRx or contact us through our website. Learn more at AvevoRx.com. About AvevoRx AvevoRx is a bespoke, independent provider of specialty infusion pharmacy services. The company focuses on the highest-quality, personalized care customized to patients facing various complex, chronic disorders. Treatments are made available via specialized pharmacy locations, field nurses, and additional support staff throughout the United States. AvevoRx also provides acute infusion therapies for patients with short-term therapeutic needs on a regional basis. Privately held, the company was founded in 2021 by a small group of industry veterans with a combined experience of more than 130 years. AvevoRx is headquartered in North Carolina. To learn more, visit www.AvevoRx.com or follow us on Instagram or LinkedIn. Media Contact Eric Hill, AvevoRx, 1 336.688.4909, [email protected], www.AvevoRx.com Victoria Seremeta, The Howley Group, LLC, 1 5162861950, [email protected], www.howleygroupllc.com SOURCE AvevoRx 28 september 2023 at 08:19 News published onand distributed by: AIS Reports on the Inferred Lithium Resource on Candela II VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A.I.S. Resources Limited (TSX-V: AIS, FRA: 5YHA) (the "Company" or "AIS") wishes to inform the company's shareholders that Spey Resources Corp. (CSE: SPEY, OTC: SPEYF, FRA: 2JS) ("Spey") has announced that a NI 43-101 compliant Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") has been completed on the Candela II lithium brine project located in the Incahuasi Salar, Salta Province, Argentina. AIS holds a 20% equity carry in the Candela II concession. The report on the Candela II property was completed by WSP Australia Pty Limited and quoting from the Spey new release: "is estimated to contain lithium metal of 86,000 tonnes which equates to 457,520 tonnes of in-situ Lithium Carbonate Equivalent ("LCE") and a lithium yield of 48,000 tonnes of LCE from 9,000 tonnes of lithium metal." At this time the reported Inferred Mineral Resource is considered too speculative geologically to have economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as Mineral Reserves. The current lithium carbonate price of $30,000 per tonne will provide the basis for a planned scoping study analysis for a possible 5,000 t/year production plant, designed to evaluate the overall economics of the project. AIS and Spey are finalising a shareholder agreement for the development of the Candela II concession. AIS retains a 20% equity carry. The reader is referred to the Spey news release for further details on the resource estimate, and proposed plans and budgets for additional development work on the property. About A.I.S. Resources Limited A.I.S. Resources Limited is a publicly traded investment issuer listed on the TSX Venture Exchange focused on natural resource opportunities. AIS's value add strategy is to acquire early-stage projects and provide technical and financial support to enhance their value. The Company is managed by a team of experienced engineers, geologists, and investment bankers, with a track-record of successful capital market achievements. On Behalf of the Board of Directors, A.I.S. Resources Limited. Andrew Neale President & CEO Email: [email protected] Website: www.aisresources.com ADVISORY: This press release contains forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligations to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws. 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. 28 september 2023 at 08:30 News published onand distributed by: PLANET FITNESS CORPORATE TEAM MEMBERS SUPPORT LOCAL COMMUNITIES THROUGH ITS 'FLEXING FOR GOOD' MONTH-LONG VOLUNTEER INITIATIVE Team members dedicated more than 400 volunteer hours to national partner Boys & Girls Clubs of America as well as other non-profits HAMPTON, N.H., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Planet Fitness, one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of fitness centers with more members than any other fitness brand, is continuing to enhance people's lives and create a healthier world by hosting a company-wide 'Flexing for Good' volunteer initiative for its corporate team members. Throughout the month of September, Planet Fitness corporate team members in multiple states volunteered at neighboring nonprofit organizations, dedicating more than 400 hours of service. Benefitting organizations included Planet Fitness' national nonprofit partner, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA), as well as other nonprofits such as the Blue Ocean Society in New Hampshire, Boston Children's Hospital, Lydia's House of Hope in New Hampshire, and Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. Planet Fitness' World Headquarters has offices in New Hampshire and Florida. All Planet Fitness World Headquarters team members are given two paid days annually for volunteer work. "Planet Fitness is always looking for ways to expand our impact beyond our four walls and into the communities we serve, and our 'Flexing for Good' volunteer initiative for our corporate team members does just that," said McCall Gosselin, Senior Vice President of Communications & Social Impact at Planet Fitness. "By giving team members opportunities to volunteer during the month of September, we were able to reach even more communities, with a large focus on organizations in the New Hampshire, Boston, and Central Florida areas given the proximity to our offices." As part of this year's 'Flexing for Good' volunteer initiative, Planet Fitness' corporate team members worked hand-in-hand with the following nonprofit partners: American Heart Association ? Taught team members lifesaving bystander skills including hands-only CPR and operating AED ? Taught team members lifesaving bystander skills including hands-only CPR and operating AED Boys & Girls Clubs of Dorchester, Mass. ? Provided 100 kids with a positive fitness experience through "Record Day," where kids won prizes for their high scores, gained confidence and had fun with their peers ? Provided 100 kids with a positive fitness experience through "Record Day," where kids won prizes for their high scores, gained confidence and had fun with their peers Boys & Girls Clubs of Manchester, N.H. ? Filled 50 backpacks with supplies for youth members heading back to school and revitalized the organization's summer camp with a freshly stained boathouse, performing arts center and walkways ? Filled 50 backpacks with supplies for youth members heading back to school and revitalized the organization's summer camp with a freshly stained boathouse, performing arts center and walkways Blue Ocean Society for Marine Conservation ? Collected 19 pounds of trash on Hampton Beach in New Hampshire ? Collected 19 pounds of trash on in Boston Children's Hospital ? Filled 85 activity bags with toys, books, coloring books and other comforting items for children of families staying in the Hale Family Center ? Filled 85 activity bags with toys, books, coloring books and other comforting items for children of families staying in the Hale Family Center Give Kids the World ? Served breakfast at Give Kids the World Village in Florida , which provides free, week-long vacations for children who have critical illnesses and their families ? Served breakfast at Give Kids the World Village in , which provides free, week-long vacations for children who have critical illnesses and their families Lydia's House of Hope ? Assisted with maintenance projects such as lawn care, plantings, home repairs and painting in addition to donating fitness equipment such as weights, exercise balls, yoga mats and a TV ? Assisted with maintenance projects such as lawn care, plantings, home repairs and painting in addition to donating fitness equipment such as weights, exercise balls, yoga mats and a TV New Hampshire Food Bank ? Sorted more than 4,000 pounds of frozen food and assisted with meal preparation ? Sorted more than 4,000 pounds of frozen food and assisted with meal preparation Ronald McDonald House Charities ( Florida ) ? Packed kits with necessities for people who stay at the home Packed kits with necessities for people who stay at the home St. Jude Children's Research Hospital ? Created more than 100 virtual cards for patients ? Created more than 100 virtual cards for patients Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida ? Sorted donations for families in need As part of the Company's larger give back efforts, Planet Fitness is proud to partner with Boys & Girls Clubs of America as part of the brand's national philanthropic initiative, the Judgement Free Generation, which aims to prevent bullying and promote kindness. Since 2016, together with its franchisees, members and partners, Planet Fitness has contributed more than $8.4 million to support anti-bullying, pro-kindness initiatives. For more information about Planet Fitness' purpose-driven efforts and the Judgement Free Generation, visit planetfitness.com/pf-purpose. About Planet Fitness Founded in 1992 in Dover, NH, Planet Fitness is one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of fitness centers in the world by number of members and locations. As of June 30, 2023, Planet Fitness had more than 18.4 million members and 2,472 stores in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Canada, Panama, Mexico and Australia. The Company's mission is to enhance people's lives by providing a high-quality fitness experience in a welcoming, non-intimidating environment, which we call the Judgement Free Zone. More than 90% of Planet Fitness stores are owned and operated by independent business men and women. SOURCE Planet Fitness, Inc. 28 september 2023 at 08:30 News published onand distributed by: Diebold Nixdorf Announces Four New Appointments to its Board of Directors New directors bring strong operational and financial leadership experience from major industries HUDSON, Ohio, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Diebold Nixdorf (NYSE: DBD) today announced that it expanded the size of its board of directors to seven independent members plus its chief executive officer. The company also announced the recent appointment of four new, independent directors, all of whom bring significant experience in operational excellence and driving financial performance. Patrick Byrne, Matthew Espe, Mark Gross and David Naemura joined the board effective Sept. 22, 2023. Mr. Byrne was appointed as chair of the board. Patrick Byrne is senior vice president of operational transformation at GE. In his role, he is responsible for driving GE's priorities around safety, quality, delivery and cost. Previously, Byrne served as chief executive officer of GE Digital, where he led the company's software businesses focused on digital transformation. Prior to GE, Byrne was at Fortive and Danaher, where he led multiple technology businesses. He has served as a member of the board of directors for multiple publicly traded companies, including currently serving as chairman of Verra Mobility and previously serving as an independent director at Micron Technology. is senior vice president of operational transformation at GE. In his role, he is responsible for driving GE's priorities around safety, quality, delivery and cost. Previously, Byrne served as chief executive officer of GE Digital, where he led the company's software businesses focused on digital transformation. Prior to GE, Byrne was at Fortive and Danaher, where he led multiple technology businesses. He has served as a member of the board of directors for multiple publicly traded companies, including currently serving as chairman of Verra Mobility and previously serving as an independent director at Micron Technology. Matthew Espe serves as a board member and advisor to public companies, private equity firms and non-profit organizations. In January 2017 , he was recruited by Sterling Partners to lead the transformation of Radial Inc. and oversaw the successful sale of the company. He previously served as chief executive officer of Armstrong World Industries, chairman and chief executive officer of IKON Office Solutions, and held various roles at GE, including president and chief executive officer of GE Lighting. He currently serves as an independent director at WESCO International, Anywhere Real Estate, Inc., and Korn Ferry . serves as a board member and advisor to public companies, private equity firms and non-profit organizations. In , he was recruited by Sterling Partners to lead the transformation of Radial Inc. and oversaw the successful sale of the company. He previously served as chief executive officer of Armstrong World Industries, chairman and chief executive officer of IKON Office Solutions, and held various roles at GE, including president and chief executive officer of GE Lighting. He currently serves as an independent director at WESCO International, Anywhere Real Estate, Inc., and . Mark Gross is an executive with more than 25 years of critical leadership experience, financial expertise and deep insight in leading business transformations. He currently serves as executive chairman of Southeastern Grocers, co-chairman of Northeast Grocery Inc., and as a board member and chairman of the audit committee of Acosta. He previously served as president and chief executive officer of Supervalu, was Co-President of C&S Wholesale Grocers, Inc., founded Surry Investment Advisors, and was an attorney in the Restructuring Group at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher and Flom. is an executive with more than 25 years of critical leadership experience, financial expertise and deep insight in leading business transformations. He currently serves as executive chairman of Southeastern Grocers, co-chairman of Northeast Grocery Inc., and as a board member and chairman of the audit committee of Acosta. He previously served as president and chief executive officer of Supervalu, was Co-President of C&S Wholesale Grocers, Inc., founded Surry Investment Advisors, and was an attorney in the Restructuring Group at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher and Flom. David Naemura is the chief financial officer of Neogen Corporation. Prior to that role, he served as chief financial officer of Vontier Corporation, previously served as chief financial officer of Gates Industrial Corporation and was a group chief financial officer at Danaher Corporation. He began his career as an auditor at Deloitte & Touche. With these most recent appointments, Diebold Nixdorf's board now consists of eight directors. Octavio Marquez, Diebold Nixdorf's president and chief executive officer, will continue to serve as a non-independent director, and the new directors join the following independent directors of the company's board: Arthur F. Anton is the retired chairman and chief executive officer of the Swagelok Company and former partner at Ernst & Young LLP. He is currently a director of The Sherwin Williams Company, lead director of Olympic Steel, chairman and director of SunCoke Energy, and a former director of University Hospitals Health System in Cleveland, Ohio . is the retired chairman and chief executive officer of the Swagelok Company and former partner at Ernst & Young LLP. He is currently a director of The Sherwin Williams Company, lead director of Olympic Steel, chairman and director of SunCoke Energy, and a former director of University Hospitals Health System in . Marjorie L. Bowen is a retired managing director at Houlihan Lokey, where she headed the firm's industry-leading fairness opinion practice. Since 2007, she has served on numerous public and private boards and is currently the chair of the audit committee and a board member of CBL Properties. is a retired managing director at Houlihan Lokey, where she headed the firm's industry-leading fairness opinion practice. Since 2007, she has served on numerous public and private boards and is currently the chair of the audit committee and a board member of CBL Properties. Emanuel R. Pearlman is the founder, chairman and chief executive officer, Liberation Investment Group. He is currently a director of MidCap Financial Investment Corporation and director and chair of the audit committee of Network-1 Technologies. Octavio Marquez, Diebold Nixdorf president and chief executive officer, said: "I am excited about the composition of the new board, which will provide strong leadership around operations, finance, and corporate governance. Our focus remains on delivering best-in-class solutions to our customers and creating value for our stakeholders. I couldn't be more optimistic about the future of Diebold Nixdorf." Patrick Byrne, incoming Diebold Nixdorf chair, said: "I am honored to take on the role of chair at such an exciting time for Diebold Nixdorf. I look forward to working closely with Octavio and the leadership team as we focus on long-term success, growth, and operational performance. I strongly support Diebold Nixdorf's customer-centric culture and its commitment to delivering for all its stakeholders. I look forward to helping lead the company through such an exciting part of its journey." Spencer Stuart advised the company and its largest shareholders in the Board search process. About Diebold Nixdorf Diebold Nixdorf, Incorporated (NYSE: DBD) automates, digitizes and transforms the way people bank and shop. As a partner to the majority of the world's top 100 financial institutions and top 25 global retailers, our integrated solutions connect digital and physical channels conveniently, securely and efficiently for millions of consumers each day. The company has a presence in more than 100 countries with approximately 21,000 employees worldwide. Visit www.DieboldNixdorf.com for more information. LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/diebold Twitter: twitter.com/dieboldnixdorf Facebook: www.facebook.com/DieboldNixdorf YouTube: www.youtube.com/dieboldnixdorf DN-C SOURCE Diebold Nixdorf, Incorporated 28 september 2023 at 08:31 News published onand distributed by: Neighbor.com Reveals 2023 Rankings of the Most Neighborly Cities in America Madison, WI claims top honor this year amidst growing appreciation for neighborliness across America LEHI, Utah, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In celebration of National Neighbor Day, Neighbor.com?the leading peer-to-peer storage marketplace?announces the results of its fourth annual "Most Neighborly Cities in America" ranking. Based on factors such as charitable donations, volunteer work, and crime, this year's list reflects the core values of unity and neighborliness that make a city truly great. Taking the first spot as the "Most Neighborly City in America" for 2023 is Madison, WI. Madison exemplifies strong community and neighborliness by consistently ranking high in volunteerism, and charity and low in crime. "In these challenging times when Americans report increasing loneliness and division, recognizing America's 'Most Neighborly Cities' is not just a celebratory act, but a call for unity and hope," says Joseph Woodbury, Founder and CEO of Neighbor. " Good neighbors heal our society's biggest wounds, starting with the smallest friendly gesture. The real magic of community is the ability to uplift and magnify our impact. At Neighbor, we're building a community of neighbors helping neighbors, and everyone's invited." 2023's Ten Most Neighborly Cities in America Madison, WI Minneapolis, MN Colorado Springs, CO Sarasota, FL Rochester, NY Provo, UT Salt Lake City, UT Ogden, UT Raleigh, NC Richmond, VA "We couldn't be happier that Madison has earned the title of America's most neighborly city. This recognition is a reflection of the warm, supportive and proactive community spirit that doesn't just reside in Madison but is the heartbeat of all of Wisconsin," said Wisconsin Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers. "This isn't just an accolade; it's a call to action for all Wisconsinites to continue fostering an environment where neighborliness and community cohesion are celebrated every day. And to everyone else, we extend an open invitation: come experience the neighborly spirit of Madison and see what makes our community?and our state?so special." Survey Highlights Alongside announcing this year's Most Neighborly Cities, Neighbor surveyed 1,000 Americans to understand ongoing societal challenges and essential characteristics of the best communities. Amid a barrage of disheartening news and a narrative that often depicts America as fractured, the survey reveals an uplifting truth: acts of kindness and community engagement are abundant, helping to strengthen and uplift communities across the country. Here's what your neighbors are saying: Neighbors are making lifelong connections : Not only do 92% of Americans know at least a few neighbors on a first-name basis, but 85% plan to stay in their current residence for the long term?plus, 45% say that it's permanent! : Not only do 92% of Americans know at least a few neighbors on a first-name basis, but 85% plan to stay in their current residence for the long term?plus, 45% say that it's permanent! Community events are strengthening local ties : 90% of Americans plan to participate in neighborhood events as much or more over the next year. The top two activities they value in the community are park gatherings with live music, games, or movies (46%) and block parties (29%). : 90% of Americans plan to participate in neighborhood events as much or more over the next year. The top two activities they value in the community are park gatherings with live music, games, or movies (46%) and block parties (29%). Tough times call for great neighbors: The top ways Americans help neighbors include retrieving and safely storing mail while they are out of town (34%), assisting with yard work (31%), and even passing along family recipes (29%), but great neighbors are willing to do so much more! During tough times, Americans are even willing to help neighbors by assisting when they are recovering from an illness (64%) or a natural disaster (76%). About Neighbor Founded in 2017, Neighbor is a storage-sharing marketplace based in Lehi, Utah. The company connects people who have unused space in their house or on their property to renters looking for closer and more affordable storage solutions. Renters save money, while Hosts earn thousands of dollars per year from their unused space. Neighbor is available in all 50 states, across cities, suburbs, and rural areas. Investors include Andreessen Horowitz, Fifth Wall, and the CEOs of marketplace businesses DoorDash, Uber, Overstock, and StockX. Media Contact: Casey Schow (801) 753-8114 [email protected] SOURCE Neighbor 28 september 2023 at 08:32 News published onand distributed by: China University of Geosciences (Beijing) Researchers Provide New Insights into the Formation of the Tibetan Plateau BEIJING, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Mountains play a significant role in regulating global climate. Therefore, the formation of mountain ranges is of great interest to scientists. The Tibetan Plateau is usually thought to have been formed by the collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates. But this claim is controversial owing to a lack of unaltered terrestrial sediments required for estimating the past elevation of the Tibetan Plateau through paleoaltimetry techniques. Now, a groundbreaking study, led by Professor Chengshan Wang from the School of Earth Sciences and Resources at China University of Geosciences, has employed an innovative approach to paleoaltimetry to obtain remarkable insights into the formation of the Tibetan Plateau. The work was published in the journal Nature Geosciences on 10 August 2023. The study used triple oxygen analysis to examine the modern meteoric waters with epithermal Ag?Pb?Zn deposit quartz veins from the Palaeocene Gangdese Arc in Southern Tibetan Plateau. Prof. Wang briefly explains the technique: "Oxygen exists as three stable isotopes or chemical variants in nature: oxygen 16, 17, and 18. Since the chemical composition of rainfall changes with altitude, with lighter isotopes of all constituents occurring near the peaks and heavier ones occurring at lower altitudes, the oxygen isotopic makeup of the rocks can shed light on past elevation." After more than three years of work, the researchers obtained remarkable results. They found that contrary to previous assumptions, the Gangdese Arc, a region in Southern Tibetan Plateau, had already achieved an elevation of approximately 3.5 kilometers or more than 60% of its present height, by 63 to 61 million years ago, well before the continental collision. This finding challenges the established notion that only massive tectonic events could have produced such a significant uplift. "The suggested uplift was probably caused by crustal shortening in response to low-angle subduction of Neo-Tethyan oceanic lithosphere," points out Prof. Wang. The present study not only reshapes our understanding of the Tibetan Plateau formation but also has far-reaching implications for climate modeling and the study of biodiversity in the region. It will potentially lead to revisions in paleoclimatic models and shed light on the evolution of weather patterns and ecosystems in the Tibetan Plateau. The findings also underscore the need to reconsider elevation estimates for other mountain ranges around the world, including that of the Andes, Urals, and Rocky Mountains. The Tibetan Plateau has always fascinated humankind, but this study brings us a step closer to the understanding of its remarkable history. Check out this video, to learn more about the study. Reference Title of original paper: High-elevation Tibetan Plateau before India?Eurasia collision recorded by triple oxygen isotopes Journal: Nature Geoscience DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41561-023-01243-x Media Contact: Li Cheng Email: [email protected] State of Origin: No.29, Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, P.R. China Telephone: +86 18801313225 SOURCE China University of Geosciences, CUGB 28 september 2023 at 08:33 News published onand distributed by: BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Turkish Ambassador to Azerbaijan Cahit Bagci made a publication on X (Twitter) about Azerbaijani servicemen who died during local anti-terrorist activities carried out by Azerbaijan, Trend reports. "May your victory be glorious and successful, brave men! May God have mercy on the heroes who became martyrs as a result of anti-terrorist activities undertaken by the Azerbaijani Army in Karabakh. We wish patience to their families, comrades-in-arms, and brotherly Azerbaijani people. Allah rhmt elsin!", he said. In order to ensure the provisions of the Trilateral Statement [signed by Azerbaijani, Armenian and Russian leaders following the 2020 second Karabakh war], to stop large-scale provocations in the Karabakh economic region, to disarm and withdraw formations of the Armenian armed forces from the territories of Azerbaijan, to neutralize their military infrastructure, to ensure the safety of the peaceful population returning to the territories liberated from occupation, civil servants involved in construction and reconstruction works, and Azerbaijan's military personnel, as well as to restore the constitutional order of the Republic of Azerbaijan, anti-terrorist measures have been conducted in the region. Within the framework of the activities, positions of Armenian armed forces formations, their long-term firing points, as well as military means and military facilities, were disrupted using high-precision weapons in the front line and in depth. Civilians and civilian infrastructure were not targets, only legitimate military targets were disabled. Taking into account the appeal of the representatives of the Armenian residents of Karabakh, received through the Russian peacekeeping contingent [temporarily stationed in Azerbaijan under the trilateral statement], an agreement was reached on the suspension of anti-terrorist activities of local nature on September 20, 2023, at 13:00 (GMT+4) under the following conditions: the Armenian armed forces formations and Armenian illegal armed formations located in Azerbaijan's Karabakh region shall lay down their weapons, leave their combat positions and military posts, and fully disarm. The units of the armed forces of Armenia shall leave the territory of Azerbaijan, and the Armenian illegal armed formations shall be disbanded. Ramin Mammadov, responsible for contacts with the Armenian residents of Karabakh, held a regular meeting with representatives of the Armenian residents of Karabakh in the town of Khojaly on September 25, 2023. At the meeting, which took place in a constructive atmosphere, satisfaction was expressed with the actions taken to resolve the issues discussed on September 21 in Yevlakh, in particular the short-term delivery of humanitarian aid, fuel, and the restoration of electricity supply. Sinch and AAA partner to expand chat capabilities for individuals needing roadside assistance STOCKHOLM and ATLANTA, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Cloud communications leader Sinch and one of North America's largest and most trusted membership organizations, AAA, are partnering to expand chat capabilities for individuals requesting roadside assistance. These changes will allow those stranded in remote areas to seamlessly connect with AAA for help. Yearly, millions of Americans are at risk of having need of road assistance while not being nearby a cellular network. On Sept. 12, AAA announced that users of the newly announced iPhone 15 lineup, as well as iPhone 14 users can now get access to Roadside Assistance via satellite utilizing AAA services. 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. Sinch, which has been an official Apple Messaging Service Provider since 2018, will serve as the software provider making it seamless for AAA agents to be in near-live contact with motorists and localize them using satellite connection. This new option to contact AAA will relieve millions of Americans a year from fear of needing to have road assistance while not being nearby a cellular network. "We are thrilled to further partner with AAA to leverage our industry-leading customer communication cloud to bring two-way conversational experiences to people precisely when they need it most," said Sinch CEO Laurinda Pang. "We are able to combine our long experience of multi-channel communications, our investments in Conversational AI and our Sinch Engage engagement suite to deliver this much-valued innovation to AAA and the many motorists they excel in servicing." Sinch and AAA have long worked together in initiatives to drive meaningful member experience through mobile messaging. For instance, Sinch has made the AAA's 800-HELP number text-enabled. When a member texts, the response from AAA includes a web link that allows the user to create a request for roadside assistance without having to speak to a AAA agent. "AAA's top priority is taking care of our members when they need us most," said Marshall Doney, president and CEO, AAA. "Sinch has been an excellent partner in furthering that mission and their innovation has allowed us to take our roadside assistance to the next level." Enabling roadside assistance via satellite builds on Sinch's previous experience in delivering robust communications services that meet the highest possible requirements. Last November, T-Mobile partnered with Sinch to launch another important first: NextGen 911 Real-Time Text (RTT). This first-ever NextGen 911 RTT technology is operating at an Emergency Communications Center (ECC) in Hood County, Texas, allowing T-Mobile customers to communicate with 911 through simultaneous conversational text and voice ? text messages can be sent and read at the same time ? without the need for teletype (TTY) technology. This is particularly critical for up to 48 million Americans who are Deaf or hard of hearing, as well as those who have speech-related disabilities or are non-native English speakers. RTT also gives public safety centers the ability to make better-informed dispatch decisions during a crisis and shave crucial time off a response. CONTACT: For further information, please contact: Sinch: Marcel Kay Public Relations Director [email protected] Ola Elmeland Investor Relations Director Mobile: +46 721 43 34 59 E-mail: [email protected] SOURCE Sinch AB 28 september 2023 at 09:14 News published onand distributed by: Hochschild Mining PLC to Present at the Metals and Mining Virtual Investor Conference October 4th LONDON, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hochschild Mining PLC (LSE: HOC) (OTCQX: HCHDF), based in Lima and London, focused on precious metals, today announced that Charlie Gordon, Head of Investor Relations, will present live at the Metals and Mining Virtual Investor Conference, hosted by VirtualInvestorConferences.com, on October 4th , 2023. DATE: October 4th, 2023 TIME: 9:30 AM ET LINK: https://bit.ly/44FOnTd Available for 1x1 meetings: Wednesday, October 4 and Monday, October 9 This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the company questions in real-time. If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event. It is recommended that online investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates. Learn more about the event at www.virtualinvestorconferences.com . Recent Company Highlights 2023 Interim Results Hochschild Provides Update on Volcan Gold Project Inmaculada Environmental Permit Approved Q2 2023 Production Report About Hochschild Mining PLC: Hochschild Mining PLC is a leading precious metals company listed on the London Stock Exchange (HOCM.L / HOC LN) and crosstrades on the OTCQX Best Market in the U.S. (HCHDF), with a primary focus on the exploration, mining, processing and sale of silver and gold. Hochschild has over fifty years' experience in the mining of precious metal epithermal vein deposits and currently operates three underground epithermal vein mines, two located in southern Peru and one in southern Argentina. Hochschild also owns the Mara Rosa Advanced Project in Brazil as well as numerous long-term projects throughout the Americas About Virtual Investor Conferences Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors. Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access. Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors. CONTACTS: Charles Gordon Head of Investor Relations Tel: +44 (0)20 3709 3264 Mob: +44 (0)7739 320982 www.hocplc.com Virtual Investor Conferences John M. Viglotti SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access OTC Markets Group (212) 220-2221 [email protected] 28 september 2023 at 09:50 News published onand distributed by: ClimateDoor Announces Expansion of Investor Slots for the Exclusive Polar Beer Taps Ranch Investor Event Series This Weekend in Vancouver. LAST CHANCE TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT AT THE RANCH Vancouver, B.C., Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Due to overwhelming demand and positive response from the investment community, ClimateDoor is excited to announce that the initial 50 investor slots for the exclusive Polar Beer Taps Ranch event have been filled. Recognizing the immense interest, we are releasing an additional 25 slots for investors eager to experience the future of cold beverage technology. The event, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Polar Beer Taps Ranch in beautiful Belcarra, just minutes outside of Vancouver, offers a unique opportunity for investors to experience Polar Beer Taps' patent-pending technology firsthand. As the event promises unparalleled insights and experiences, including a special boat journey, the decision to expand the slots was made to ensure more interested parties could participate. "We're truly humbled by the incredible response we've received," said Nick Findler, Co-Founder and President of ClimateDoor. "The expansion of investor slots underscores the excitement and potential that industry leaders and investors see in Polar Beer Taps' groundbreaking beverage technology." LAST CHANCE TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT AT THE RANCH It's worth noting that the partnership between ClimateDoor and Polar Beer Taps has been instrumental in reaching this pivotal moment. Together, both companies are pioneering innovative solutions that not only serve cold beverages reliably but also champion sustainability and a reduced carbon footprint. Interested investors are encouraged to act swiftly, as these additional slots are expected to be filled rapidly. The event will take place between September 28th and October 2nd, with transportation options available for attendees. To secure your spot and experience the revolutionary Polar Beer Taps technology, click here . For inquiries and RSVP: Nick Findler 778-952-0418 [email protected] www.climatedoor.com Cofounder & President About ClimateDoor: ClimateDoor is a leading force in championing sustainability and innovative solutions in the beverage industry. Partnering with pioneers like Polar Beer Taps, ClimateDoor is at the forefront of creating a sustainable future without compromising on quality or experience. About Polar Beer Taps: Polar Beer Taps, headquartered in Vancouver, BC, stands at the cutting edge of beverage technology. Merging sustainability with innovation, the company is committed to revolutionizing how beverages are served, ensuring an unmatched cold and refreshing experience. 28 september 2023 at 10:00 News published onand distributed by: BioAlberta Releases Alberta Labour Market Information Report BioAlberta is pleased to announce the public release of the BioAlberta Labour Market Information (LMI) Report. The study on which the report is based is the first of its kind specific to the Alberta life sciences industry. It was undertaken because access to standardized employment numbers is critical to the continued growth of the life science sector in Alberta, to design programs to support small- to medium-sized enterprises, support faster commercialization of technologies, and to complete effective tracking of employment growth and job creation. To complete the provincial study, BioAlberta partnered with BioTalent Canada, author of the national LMI report. This alignment allowed for a deep dive on Alberta's bioeconomy that is comparable with the national LMI completed by BioTalent Canada, further allowing comparison and contrast as stakeholders assess the labour market in other jurisdictions as well as showcasing what makes Alberta unique. Boasting approximately 1,900 organizations engaged in life sciences related activity, and employment of approximately 23,300 Albertans, the life sciences economy is a key factor in the broader provincial economic picture. The BioAlberta LMI report provides a detailed profile of the Alberta life sciences industry focussed on the bioeconomy. This includes the companies, hospital research organizations and university research organizations that affect the knowledge, research, innovation, and growth of the industry. For this reason, it should be noted that pure health care services such as physician's offices are not included in the study. The BioAlberta LMI report provides the employment outlook, hiring requirements, and labour market outlook for the life sciences industry and dives deep into the details on each of the industry subsectors: bio-health, bio-industrial, agri-biotech, and bio-energy. Important details from the BioAlberta LMI: The largest employment contributors in the Alberta life sciences industry are testing laboratories, hospitals, manufacturing, and veterinary services, with approximately half of the life sciences industry employment associated with bio-health subsector. The bio-health and agri-bio subsectors will see peak employment by 2030, with research and development job functions in high demand in both sectors. The life sciences industry depends on the higher education sector for its skilled labour. Domestic enrollment in higher education is not projected to meet the demand for skilled labour, and it is expected that immigration of skilled workers will be needed to help meet demand. Even with a projected economic slowdown in 2025, the bio-economy in Alberta is expected to continue to show modest growth through the end of the decade. As we look ahead to the end of the decade, the life sciences industry is estimated to add almost 7,000 jobs for skilled workers. The BioAlberta LMI Report details which subsectors will be most affected as the industry addresses a talent shortage ? and provides stakeholders information from which solutions to this challenge can be inferred. To view the Alberta LMI Report, click here "The BioAlberta LMI study creates the first definitive report on the life sciences workforce in Alberta. It aligns with Biotalent Canada's national LMI report to compare with other jurisdictions and provides baseline data to track the labour market so governments and the private sector can respond to meet the demand as both the industry and the workforce grow." ? Robb Stoddard, President & CEO, BioAlberta The Province of Alberta is working in partnership with the Government of Canada to provide employment support programs and services. About BioAlberta BioAlberta is a member-driven and funded not for profit industry association that represents and promotes the province's vibrant and diverse life sciences industry. Through our many partnerships and collaborations, we are dedicated to promoting Alberta's life science sectors, locally, nationally, and internationally. BioAlberta enables success for its members by providing a wide range of networking and educational events, and by effectively delivering policy options to governments. BioAlberta activities are focused in key strategic areas: advocacy; promotion, marketing, and networking; industry development. Please visit to learn more: www.bioalberta.com 28 september 2023 at 10:05 News published onand distributed by: "The Future Is Bright" With Opportunities to Grow: BioAlberta's State of the Industry Reports on Alberta's Life Sciences and Healthcare Industry BioAlberta has published its 2023 State of the Industry (SOI) report. This year's report includes new insights and trends from the industry to reflect market conditions and the growth of the sector. The report's results stem from the voices of over 200 companies operating within multiple sub-sectors in the life sciences industry in Alberta, each providing a snapshot of their specialties and focus, in addition to metrics on their research and development spending, human resources, revenue, and financing, providing BioAlberta with a high-level and robust view of the ecosystem. Key findings from the SOI 2023 report The industry is optimistic, with surveyed companies forecasting 55.5% growth in revenue in 2023, having delivered 2022 revenues of nearly $2.0 billion. The life sciences industry continues to innovate, providing diagnostics, therapeutics, and treatments to support the population through the COVID-19 pandemic. The industry remains in a state of high growth, propelled by many startups/scaleups and other rapidly advancing companies. More than one in three surveyed companies was founded since 2019, and 82.3% self-describe as "emerging" or "growth" companies. Survey participants noted an increase in spending on research and development by 32.2% from 2020 to 2022, reaching $327.3 million last year. Life sciences companies are also high-impact job creators, with surveyed companies forecasting nearly 6,000 employees in 2023 ? up 1,800 (44.3%) from 2022. When considering total direct, indirect and induced employment, the sector is forecast to contribute over 23,300 jobs in 2023. One quarter of people working at surveyed companies hold a PhD. Posing an opportunity for improvement, financing has seen a reduction in the last year, declining to $588.8 million in 2022 from nearly $1.4 billion the year prior, likely due in part to less need for COVID-19 solutions, stabilization of the cannabis industry, and a more difficult investment climate. To that, qualitative feedback notes that surveyed companies applaud moves by governments and other parties to improve support to early-stage companies and notes that more could be done. Collaboration between stakeholders and ecosystem players that are working together with multinational enterprises (MNEs) and public sector organizations have helped form sustainable relationships as companies develop innovative emerging technology and drive improved patient outcomes. "Alberta's life sciences sector is flourishing, contributing 23,300 direct, indirect and induced jobs, and nearly $2 billion to the Alberta economy. What's most exciting is that we see growth beyond our traditional strengths in pharmaceuticals and health technology, into areas such as digital health, bioenergy and proteins and functional ingredients. We are also seeing entrepreneurs establish companies outside of Edmonton and Calgary, providing jobs and economic activity across the province," says Robb Stoddard, President & CEO at BioAlberta. "Alberta's ability to re-build itself after the COVID-19 pandemic and emerge as a growing and successful sector with an optimistic outlook, demonstrates its strength as an ecosystem," said Jeremy Webster, Partner and Healthcare Financial Advisory Leader at Deloitte Canada, and Badeia Jawhari, Senior Manager and Healthcare and Life Sciences Leader at Deloitte. "The future is bright for the life sciences industry in Alberta, with many emerging and growing companies continuing to grow and scale in Alberta and beyond our borders. There is great optimism within the ecosystem that has developed across public and private sectors to innovate, grow, and invest in Alberta companies while improving patient outcomes." To download a copy of the 2023 Life Sciences State of the Industry Report select this link: HERE About BioAlberta BioAlberta is a member-driven and funded not for profit industry association that represents and promotes the province's vibrant and diverse life sciences industry. Through our many partnerships and collaborations, we are dedicated to promoting Alberta's life science sectors, locally, nationally, and internationally. BioAlberta enables success for its members by providing a wide range of networking and educational events, and by effectively delivering policy options to governments. BioAlberta activities are focused in key strategic areas: advocacy; promotion, marketing, and networking; industry development. 28 september 2023 at 10:05 News published onand distributed by: Fraser Institute News Release: 1-in-6 government-funded surgeries in Quebec now take place in private clinics MONTREAL, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Private surgical clinics play an increasingly large role in Quebec's universal health care system, and now perform 1-in-6 government-funded day surgeries, according to a new study released today by the Fraser Institute, an independent, non-partisan Canadian public policy think-tank. "Quebec has increasingly used private clinics as part of its universal health care system, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic to reduce the surgical backlog," said Yanick Labrie, Fraser Institute senior fellow and author of Lessons from the Public Private Partnerships in Surgical Care in Quebec. "The Quebec experience shows that private clinics are a complement to, and not a substitute for, the public system." Following a 2006 Supreme Court ruling, private surgical clinics are allowed to perform select surgeries that are covered by the Quebec health-care system. Initially they were allowed only for knee and hip replacements and cataract surgeries, but now there are 51 procedures covered in Quebec's public system that can also be performed in private surgical clinics. As a result, the number of private surgical clinics in Quebec has grown from 45 in 2014 to 73 this year. And the percentage of government-funded day surgeries performed by private clinics has increased from 6.1 per cent in 2011/12 to 17.1 per cent this year, or 1-in-6 surgeries. Crucially, public hospitals in Quebec are allowed to enter into agreements with private surgical clinics to outsource certain surgeries if the hospital's wait times exceed provincial targets. "Other provinces can look to the Quebec experience with public private partnerships in health delivery to see what is possible even within the Canada Health Act," Labrie said. "Canadian patients everywhere should have the same opportunities to access timely care no matter where they are in the country, including private clinics which are thriving in Quebec." MEDIA CONTACT: Yanick Labrie, Senior Fellow Fraser Institute To arrange media interviews or for more information, please contact: Drue MacPherson Media Relations Coordinator, Fraser Institute Office: (604) 688-0221 ext. 721 [email protected] Follow the Fraser Institute on Twitter and Facebook The Fraser Institute is an independent Canadian public policy research and educational organization with offices in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, and Montreal and ties to a global network of think-tanks in 87 countries. Its mission is to improve the quality of life for Canadians, their families and future generations by studying, measuring and broadly communicating the effects of government policies, entrepreneurship and choice on their well-being. To protect the Institute's independence, it does not accept grants from governments or contracts for research. Visit www.fraserinstitute.org 28 september 2023 at 11:10 News published onand distributed by: New Jersey American Water Cuts the Ribbon on New Lawnside Operations Center Joined by New Jersey Board of Public Utilities Commissioners Mary-Anna Holden and Marian Abdou, and Lawnside Mayor Mary Ann Wardlow, New Jersey American Water today cut the ribbon on its new Operations Center in Lawnside. Serving the company's Southwest region, the Lawnside Operations Center brings 83 employees to Lawnside with the possibility of growing by upwards of 20 percent in the future. The company's Southwest Operations region services approximately 400,000 people in Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, and Salem counties. "I am honored to mark the completion of this important investment project for our company and our customers," said New Jersey American Water President Mark McDonough. "Our new Lawnside Operations Center is more centrally located in our Southwest Operations region, which will enable us to serve our customer base even quicker, and we have space to expand in the future if necessary." The Lawnside Operations Center consists of approximately 19,780 square feet of office and administrative space and approximately 38,325 feet of garage and warehouse space. New Jersey American Water will be contributing approximately $900,000 annually in property taxes to the borough. "We have deep roots here in Lawnside," said McDonough. "A number of our employees are residents, and we are excited to call this our new home. We look forward to continuing to be a community partner with Lawnside as we grow our workforce and provide high-quality water and wastewater services across the state." In her remarks about New Jersey American Water, Commissioner Holden said, "They are involved in whatever community they are a part of. You don't just see them when there's a water break, you don't just see them in your mailbox when you get a bill; they're participating, they're volunteering, and offering job opportunities." "It has been two years since we stood here joined by the commissioner and New Jersey American Water," said Lawnside Mayor Mary Ann Wardlow. "It was then that we broke ground on this existing project, marking the beginning of a journey filled with dedication, hard work, and a shared vision for the future. The completion of the New Jersey American Water operations center in the historic borough of Lawnside will not only benefit us today but will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come. It is a symbol of our shared commitment to improving our community and improving essential services to our fellow citizens." Lawnside has been receiving water service from New Jersey American Water and its predecessors since 1897. About New Jersey American Water New Jersey American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest investor-owned water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and wastewater services to approximately 2.8 million people. For more information, visit www.newjerseyamwater.com and follow New Jersey American Water on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. 28 september 2023 at 16:05 News published onand distributed by: Donald Trump during a speech at Drake Enterprises, an automotive parts manufacturer and supplier, in Clinton, Michigan, on September 27, 2023. MATTHEW HATCHER / AFP In the skies over Detroit, a plane flew back and forth pulling a huge banner: "Trump sold you out. Trump hates workers." Such was the welcoming committee reserved for the former American president, who was holding a rally on Wednesday, September 27, at a factory north of Detroit, in support of striking auto workers. On the ground, Donald Trump supporters such as Candice Rock, a 55-year-old nurse, and Sandra Fischer, a 52-year-old unemployed woman, didn't care. For hours, they taunted the Democratic counter-demonstrators before the former president appeared, discreetly in the middle of his convoy of some 40 vehicles. To hear them tell it, Trump was one of them and their blunt assessments helped explain their unwavering support for the former president, who is also the likely Republican candidate for the 2024 race. "He's funny, he has a sense of humor, he makes me laugh even if it exasperates others," said Rock. "I loved it when he tweeted. That's how he spoke to me. He talked like normal people," added Fischer, in agreement. Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes US auto strike: 'Everything but our paycheck is going up' Trump may be a New York real estate tycoon who rubbed shoulders with the stars, but his working-class Midwestern constituents are convinced that he is sacrificing himself for their freedom. That's what he repeats at his rallies, and his supporters are won over. Dennis Schnabel, 76, was still reeling from an election phone call involving the president's own son, Donald Jr. "He told us, 'My father isn't doing this for himself, he's doing it for you,'" said Schnabel, adding, "He doesn't need this job." In this milieu, Trump enjoys a reputation for probity, in stark contrast to the Democrats. "Trump is the only president who hasn't taken a penny from the taxpayer [he paid back his presidential salary]. The others, they come in poor and leave rich from the White House. How did Obama get his villa built?" said Timothy Henley, an employee of an industrial company. 'The trial is a farce' As for the multiple legal proceedings piling up against Trump particularly for the Capitol riots on January 6, 2021, designed to overturn the election result his supporters believed them to be nothing more than conspiracies orchestrated by the Democrats, despite all the evidence to the contrary. "Nancy Pelosi [the Democratic speaker of the House of Representatives at the time] was supposed to protect the Capitol. She did nothing. The Democrats sought to sabotage Trump. They're bad people," said Vicky Conway, 64, as young Republicans held up signs calling for the release of people who were convicted after the events of January 6, 2021. You have 60% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only. A Palestinian worker sleeps inside a scanning machine at the Erez crossing as he waits his turn to enter Israel, after Israeli ends a ban on workers from Gaza, in Gaza City September 28, 2023. IBRAHEEM ABU MUSTAFA / REUTERS Israel said it reopened a key crossing with Gaza to Palestinian workers on Thursday, September 28, after shutting it during violent protests that saw the army launch strikes targeting Hamas military posts. The Israeli authorities had initially closed the Erez crossing, the only gateway for Palestinian pedestrians from the Gaza Strip, for the Jewish New Year holiday on September 15. But they extended the closure citing security reasons following daily demonstrations along the border that left several protesters dead and injured in clashes with Israeli soldiers. While patients seeking medical treatment and foreigners had been allowed to use the crossing, thousands of Palestinian workers from the coastal enclave had been banned from entering Israel. On the evening of Wednesday, September 27, COGAT, the Israeli defence body responsible for Palestinian civilian affairs, said the crossing would reopen for workers from Thursday morning. The Palestinian civilian affairs ministry confirmed the crossing had reopened. An AFP correspondent saw thousands of Palestinians waiting at the terminal to enter Israel. Israel has issued work permits to some 18,500 Gazans, COGAT said last week. Gaza rocked by violent protests and drone strikes The Gaza Strip, home to some 2.3 million Palestinians, had been rocked by violent protests in the past two weeks. Protesters had often resorted to burning tyres, throwing stones and petrol bombs at Israeli troops, who have responded with tear gas and live bullets. The Israeli army had also resorted to drone strikes targeting military sites of the Islamist group Hamas, which controls the enclave. Since September 13, seven Palestinians have been killed and more than 100 wounded in the violence in Gaza, according to figures from the Hamas-controlled health ministry. Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes The mourning families of Gaza: 'The Israelis can target us whenever they want' Israel has imposed an air, land and sea blockade on Gaza since Hamas seized the Palestinian territory in 2007. Armed conflict sporadically erupts between Israel and militants in the Gaza Strip. In May, an exchange of Israeli air strikes and Gaza rocket fire resulted in the deaths of 34 Palestinians and one Israeli. Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Gaza Strip responds to assassinations of Islamic Jihad leaders with salvoes of rockets People watch a TV broadcasting a news report on North Korea firing a ballistic missile into the sea off its east coast, at a railway station in Seoul, South Korea, on March 16, 2023. KIM HONG-JI / REUTERS North Korea has enshrined its status as a nuclear power in its constitution, with leader Kim Jong Un calling for more modern atomic weapons to counter the threat from the United States, state media reported on Thursday, September 28. Despite international sanctions over its nuclear weapons program, North Korea has conducted a record number of missile tests this year, ignoring warnings from the US, South Korea and their allies. Diplomatic efforts to convince Pyongyang to give up its atomic arsenal failed, and the constitutional change came after Kim's declaration last year that North Korea was an "irreversible" nuclear weapons state. North Korea's "nuclear force-building policy has been made permanent as the basic law of the state, which no one is allowed to flout," Kim said at a meeting of the State People's Assembly, according to the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The rubber-stamp parliament met on September 26 and 27. Kim said North Korea needed nuclear weapons to counter an existential threat from the US and its allies. The US has "maximized its nuclear war threats to our Republic by resuming the large-scale nuclear war joint drills with clear aggressive nature and putting the deployment of its strategic nuclear assets near the Korean peninsula on a permanent basis," he said. Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Risk of escalation on Korean peninsula 'Absolutely unacceptable' Kim described the recently enhanced security cooperation between Washington, Seoul and Tokyo as the "worst actual threat." As a result, he added, "it is very important for the DPRK to accelerate the modernization of nuclear weapons in order to hold the definite edge of strategic deterrence." Kim also "stressed the need to push ahead with the work for exponentially boosting the production of nuclear weapons and diversifying the nuclear strike means," according to KCNA. Neighboring Japan, however, said North Korea's atomic weapons program was "absolutely unacceptable." "North Korea's nuclear and missile development threatens the peace and security of our country and the international community," Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said on Thursday, September 28 in response to the constitutional change. "We will cooperate with the United States, South Korea and the rest of the international community towards the full implementation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the full denuclearisation of North Korea," he said. Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Denuclearization of North Korea: An increasingly unrealistic goal Space and missile programs North Korea's weapons tests this year included intercontinental ballistic missiles, and its military this month conducted what it described as simulations of a "tactical nuclear attack." Pyongyang has also tried and failed twice this year to put a military spy satellite in orbit. South Korea and the US have ramped up their security cooperation in response, with large-scale joint drills and trilateral naval exercises with Japan. The last known North Korean weapons test, involving two short-range ballistic missiles, took place while Kim was on his way to meet President Vladimir Putin in Russia. Kim's visit to Russia his first abroad since the coronavirus pandemic fanned Western fears that Moscow and Pyongyang will defy sanctions and strike an arms deal. Russia is believed to be interested in buying North Korean ammunition for its war in Ukraine, while Pyongyang wants Russian help with its missile and space programs. Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Kim Jong Un in Russia: 'The staged rapprochement between Moscow and Pyongyang is designed to exert pressure on Seoul' BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Azerbaijan's Ministry of Defense has updated information about the amount of military equipment, weapons, and ammunition seized after the completion of local anti-terror activities conducted in Azerbaijan's Karabakh region as of 10:00 (GMT +4) on September 28, Trend reports. The updated list includes: 1. Small arms and grenades - 1,132 2. Artillery weapons - 61 3. Air Defense means -235 4. Various ammunition - 434,295 5. Accouterments - 2,732 6. Optical and other devices (231 7. Vehicles (armored - 26, other - 125) 8. Trailers - 21 In order to ensure the provisions of the Trilateral Statement [signed by Azerbaijani, Armenian and Russian leaders following the 2020 second Karabakh war], to stop large-scale provocations in the Karabakh economic region, to disarm and withdraw formations of the Armenian armed forces from the territories of Azerbaijan, to neutralize their military infrastructure, to ensure the safety of the peaceful population returning to the territories liberated from occupation, civil servants involved in construction and reconstruction works, and Azerbaijan's military personnel, as well as to restore the constitutional order of the Republic of Azerbaijan, anti-terrorist measures have been conducted in the region. Within the framework of the activities, positions of Armenian armed forces formations, their long-term firing points, as well as military means and military facilities, were disrupted using high-precision weapons in the front line and in depth. Civilians and civilian infrastructure were not targets, only legitimate military targets were disabled. Taking into account the appeal of the representatives of the Armenian residents of Karabakh, received through the Russian peacekeeping contingent [temporarily stationed in Azerbaijan under the trilateral statement], an agreement was reached on the suspension of anti-terrorist activities of local nature on September 20, 2023, at 13:00 (GMT+4) under the following conditions: the Armenian armed forces formations and Armenian illegal armed formations located in Azerbaijan's Karabakh region shall lay down their weapons, leave their combat positions and military posts, and fully disarm. The units of the armed forces of Armenia shall leave the territory of Azerbaijan, and the Armenian illegal armed formations shall be disbanded. Ramin Mammadov, responsible for contacts with the Armenian residents of Karabakh, held a regular meeting with representatives of the Armenian residents of Karabakh in the town of Khojaly on September 25, 2023. At the meeting, which took place in a constructive atmosphere, satisfaction was expressed with the actions taken to resolve the issues discussed on September 21 in Yevlakh, in particular the short-term delivery of humanitarian aid, fuel, and the restoration of electricity supply. LIMERICK councillors are to write to the National Transport Authority (NTA) to request night bus services for the Christmas season. It comes after a motion from Labour councillor Elena Secas was unanimously adopted at this months metropolitan meeting. Councillor Secas referred to research taxi app Free Now, which showed on December 27 last, there were 50% more requests for taxis than there were drivers in Limerick. She added that the number of requests on the app was up by a third on the rest of the year. Councillor Secas believes night-time buses can help. Between 2am and 3am on December 27, 2022, the Freenow app had 1,512 requests in Limerick alone, 52% more than the number of valid driver licences operating in the county of Limerick, Cllr Secas stated. In total, the number of taxi requests on the Free Now app in Limerick last December was 33% higher than the average for the rest of the year. With the proposed relaxation of night-time licensing laws now on ice until summer 2024, people heading out for their Christmas celebrations will continue to face battles for taxi journeys, the councillor predicted. This, she said, will put people at risk of being unable to get home. So now it is time to take action to address this issue, added Cllr Secas. Pilot night-bus services will address this pressure, she says. This is to address the pressures on transport services ahead of the festive season by providing additional capacity at peak night times, in order to ensure a sufficient supply of public transport options to meet peoples travel needs and to make sure that people are not left without a way to get home at the end of the night, the Labour councillor for City East concluded. At present, only Dublin and Cork have night bus services. But under new transport plans, Limericks 304 route, connecting University of Limerick and the city with Raheen, could become a 24-hour service. The proposal comes as part of the NTAs BusConnects strategy for Limerick. It's anticipated the night service will travel once every hour. The move will no doubt be popular with late night revellers in the city centre, many of whom often will struggle to source a taxi at the end of an evening. THE Diocese of Killaloe has kicked off a year-long scheme to encourage men to consider joining the priesthood. Senior members of the diocese will visit local parishes including in Limerick, next weekend, with Castleconnell to also to get a visit next month. Currently, only half of the parishes in the diocese are served by a resident priest. But in the last 12 months, three people have decided to consider joining the priesthood. That's according to vocations director, Fr Iggy McCormack, who said: Geographically, we are the third largest diocese in the country and it has become increasingly difficult to maintain full cover across the five counties due to retirements and a lower number of vocations. He said the idea of young men taking up a vocation has arguably become more counter-cultural in recent years. We are very hopeful that we can build on recent progress whereby three men from the diocese will enter the seminary at Maynooth over the next 12 months. Fr McCormack hopes the vocations initiative will encourage people to discover more about vocations on the diocesan website while the parish church visits are aimed at kick starting conversations within family groups, with local priests and in communities across the diocese on the vocation of priesthood. Most newly ordained priests will comment on how the encouragement and counsel they received from their local priest greatly assisted in commencing their journey to priestly ministry, he said. Former Clare councillor Mark Nestor is one of the three men who has left day-to-day life for the priesthood over the past 12 months. Answering yes to my vocation to the priesthood has resulted in a great sense of contentment in my life, he said. THE INSTALLATION of water fountains in rural Limerick areas has made drinking water freely available to citizens. Limerick City and County Council (LCCC) completed the installation of new public drinking water fountains at Doon, Galbally and Kilfinane. The fountains are funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development under CLAR. A fourth will come on stream in Feenagh Town Park in the coming weeks. Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, Cllr Gerald Mitchell welcomed the additions to Limericks public drinking water network. Drinking water fountains make drinking water freely available to citizens. They increase the opportunity for Limerick citizens and visitors to use a reusable bottle helping to prevent the use of single-use plastic bottles. I am delighted that LCCC and the communities in Galbally, Doon, Kilfinane and Feenagh have come together to increase the provision of public drinking water infrastructure in County Limerick with the support of CLAR funding. The installation of contactless public drinking water fountains is in line with the national and regional policy on waste prevention and the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals, particularly Goal 12: Responsible Production and Consumption. These new Contactless Public Drinking Water Fountains add to the existing network of fountains previously funded under the Local Authority Prevention Network, Healthy Ireland programme and the European Green Leaf Award Fund and by other organisations in Limerick. Local Tidy Towns Group of Kilfinane, Doon, Galbally and Feenagh have confirmed that the drinking water fountains and the savings of single-use plastic bottles will be included in their Tidy Towns applications for 2024 under the Sustainability Doing More with Less category. LIMERICK commuters are set to benefit from the roll out of an enhanced bus service between Newcastle West and Charleville. TFI Local Link Limerick Clare has announced details of the improved service, with the changes taking effect from this Sunday, October 1. The change is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan - a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network. From Sunday, the service on Route 521 will now include the addition of an early morning service and higher frequency Thursday to Sunday services. The service will operate seven daily return services Monday to Wednesday, nine daily return services Thursday to Saturday and four daily return services on Sunday. The route will also provide late evening and peak-time services for commuters and improved connectivity to Limerick city. Going forward, there will be enhanced connectivity to other towns and villages close to the Limerick/Cork border including Castlemahon, Feohanagh, Kilmeedy, Feenagh, Dromcollogher, Milford and Newtownshandrum. The service will also facilitate onward travel to Limerick city regional bus services and the wider TFI Network. Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Limerick Clare General Manager Anne Gaughan, said: We are delighted to announce new enhancements to the 521 Newcastle West to Charleville services. The addition of the early morning leg will provide connectivity to Limerick, Cork and beyond. The higher frequency Thursday to Sunday services will provide a vital level of connectivity for passengers, which they can rely on to travel to work, social events, college, training, sightseeing, meeting family and friends or connecting to Charleville Train Station." Ms Gaughan added: In partnership with the NTA, we support the Governments Sustainable Mobility Policy and believe these new services complement this policy. The NTA is committed to the growth and development of local bus services, as we work together to deliver affordable, accessible public transport for our area. THE UNIVERSITY of Limerick has reached a "milestone achievement" after ranking into the world's top 500 universities. UL has achieved its best performance yet in Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings for 2024. The university has moved into the 401-500 bracket out of the 1,904 universities ranked globally, marking a significant improvement on last years 601-800 placing. It is the biggest year-on-year move of the universities in Ireland in the annual THE World University rankings, which aim to provide the definitive list of the best universities in the world and is a vital resource for students and academics helping them choose where to study and work. UL President Professor Kerstin Mey said: Ranking in the top 500 universities in the world is a testament to the unwavering dedication and commitment of our university community in the pursuit of excellence and innovation. Together, we have forged a path of excellence and innovation that propels us forward, shaping a brighter future for all. In doing so, we have achieved a milestone that reflects the power of collective effort and the limitless potential of University of Limerick. Improving university world rankings holds immense significance for a research-led institution committed to excellence, innovation, and sustainability. These rankings are not just numbers or symbols of prestige, they reflect a universitys global standing and its impact on society." ULs Vice President Global and Community Engagement, Professor Nigel Healey, outlined the importance of being in the Top 500 best universities in the world. Universities operate in a very crowded global environment. Almost 40% of the worlds school leavers go to college. Estimates of the number of universities vary from 21,000 (the number of accredited or recognised higher education institutions according to UNESCO) up to 83,000," he said. For UL, a research-led university that seeks to attract and inspire the worlds brightest minds, being ranked in the Top 500 by the Times Higher Education is an important milestone in consolidating our presence amongst the worlds top universities, Professor Healey added. The methodology used for the 2024 rankings included significant updates with the introduction of a wider range of bibliometric measures, improving international metrics, and expanding the role for knowledge transfer. New research suggests women who smoke during pregnancy are 2.6 times more likely to give birth prematurely compared with non-smokers more than double the previous estimate. The University of Cambridge study also found smoking meant the baby was four times more likely to be small for its gestational age, putting it at risk of potentially serious complications including breathing difficulties and infections. There was no evidence caffeine intake was linked to negative outcomes. Professor Gordon Smith, head of the department of obstetrics and gynaecology at the University of Cambridge, said: Weve known for a long time that smoking during pregnancy is not good for the baby, but our study shows that its potentially much worse than previously thought. It puts the baby at risk of potentially serious complications from growing too slowly in the womb or from being born too soon. We hope this knowledge will help encourage pregnant mums and women planning pregnancy to access smoking-cessation services. Pregnancy is a key time when women quit and if they can remain tobacco free after the birth there are lifelong benefits for them and their child. Health departments recommend that women who are pregnant should stop smoking and limit their caffeine intake because of the risk of complications to the baby. When the toxins from smoke travel through the bloodstream to the baby, it struggles for oxygen. When this happens it affects their development, and is linked to premature birth and low birthweight, though it has also been linked to a reduced risk of pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy). The study looked at the effect of caffeine on pregnancy High caffeine intake has also been linked to lower birthweight and possibly foetal growth restriction. But caffeine can be more difficult to avoid than cigarette smoke as, as well as being found in coffee and tea, it can be found in chocolate, energy drinks, soft drinks and certain medications. Researchers say studies looking at the links between smoking and caffeine and their impact on pregnancy tend to rely on people reporting how much they have consumed, or exposure to smoke, data which is not always reliable. Blood tests for metabolites chemical by-products created when substances such as tobacco and caffeine are processed in the body might be more accurate. Researchers at Cambridge and the Rosie Hospital, part of Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, recruited more than 4,200 women who attended the hospital between 2008 and 2012 as part of the Pregnancy Outcome Prediction (POP) study. The team analysed blood samples taken from a group of these women four times during their pregnancies. To assess exposure to cigarette smoke, the team looked at levels of cotinine, which can be detected in blood, urine and saliva. Only two out of three women with detectable levels of cotinine in every blood sample were self-reported smokers, showing that this measure is a more objective way of assessing smoking behaviour, researchers say. A total of 914 women were included in the smoking analysis. Of these, 78.6% were classified as having no exposure to smoking while pregnant, 11.7% as having some exposure and 9.7% as having consistent exposure. The study, published in the International Journal of Epidemiology, found that compared with those without smoke exposure while pregnant, those with consistent exposure were 2.6 times more likely to experience spontaneous preterm birth. According to the researchers, this is more than double the previous estimate of 1.27 from an analysis of multiple studies. They were also 4.1 times as likely to experience foetal growth restriction. Additionally, babies born to smokers were found to be on average 387g lighter than babies born to non-smokers that is, more than 10% smaller than the weight of an average newborn. This increases the risk that the baby will have a low birth weight (2.5kg or less), which in turn is linked to an increased risk of developmental problems as well as poorer health in later life. Unlike in previous studies, the team found no evidence that smoking reduced the risk of pre-eclampsia. To assess caffeine intake, researchers looked for the metabolite paraxanthine in 915 women. Of these women, 12.8% had low levels of paraxanthine throughout pregnancy (suggesting low caffeine intake), 74.0% had moderate levels and 13.2% had high levels. The researchers say there was little evidence of an association between caffeine intake and any of the negative outcomes. However, because the researchers did not study all possible adverse outcomes of pregnancy, and some of the outcomes not studied such as stillbirth have been associated with higher caffeine intake in previous studies, they cannot interpret the findings as indicating that current recommendations around caffeine intake should be changed. The work was supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre and the Medical Research Council. WASHINGTONMuch of the Justice Departments antitrust case against Google has unfolded behind closed doors, prompting the judge to defend himself against criticisms that he too readily deferred to requests by Google and interested parties such as Apple to seal the courtroom. Some advocacy groups have blamed U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta for a recent stretch of testimony that occurred with intermittent public access, including the questioning of top Apple executives. Near the end of Tuesdays proceedings, Mehta said he was relying on government lawyers to push back on the repeated efforts of Google and other tech companies to seal the courtroom. The judge said he doesnt have a crystal ball to know whats coming up" in the testimony, and whether witnesses could delve into confidential business information that Google can ask to keep out of public view. Im relying largely on the plaintiffs, who represent the public interest, to let me know if you think it is objectionable to go into closed session," Mehta said. The witnesses are key to the Justice Departments case against Google, the most important antitrust trial since the government sued Microsoft more than two decades ago. The DOJ has argued that Google used agreements with Apple and other phone makers to box out competing search engines. Google has said it makes the best one and the agreements leave room for choice. Google, a unit of parent company Alphabet, has redacted much information about the contracts at issue in the case, and the companys lawyers have repeatedly asked to seal the courtroom. Lawyers for Apple and others involved in the case have also asked for closed sessions. Moments before Mehtas remarks, Justice Department lawyer David Dahlquist said the governments position on public access had been mischaracterized by Apple, which looms large in the case because of its contract with Google that makes it the default search engine on its Safari browser. In Apples filing last night, they stated that the Justice Department chose to unilaterally close the courtroom. That did not occur," Dahlquist said. The United States has always been focused on open courtroom and public access. At times, we have not objected to the closing when the third parties and Google have put that forward. We want to just state that for the public record." The nonjury trial, which began on Sept. 12, has offered glimpses into how Google cemented its status as a major gateway to the internet, a position the Justice Department says it has maintained through illegal, restrictive agreements. But the public has no way of listening to the 10-week trial, which could lead to changes to Googles business practices or a breakup of the company. News organizations have sent reporters to the federal courthouse in Washington. They often encounter a courtroom sealed to the publicwith no indication of when it will reopen. Much of Tuesday and Wednesdays testimony was open to the publica sign that Mehta may have changed his approach to sealing. Under U.S. law, companies can petition for the sealing of court records and testimony to preserve the confidentiality of sensitive business information, even if that information doesnt rise to the level of a trade secret. But judges must balance this interest with the publics right to access court proceedings. Mehta said at a pretrial hearing that it was difficult for him to know what business information deserved to be sealed. I am not anyone that understands the industry and the markets in the way that you do," Mehta said to the lawyers. And so I take seriously when companies are telling me that if this gets disclosed, its going to cause competitive harm." The judge has at times been overly cautious" in his sealing of the courtroom, said Lee Hepner, legal counsel at the American Economic Liberties Project, an antimonopoly group. In that cautionwhich I think is born from a desire to be fair to both partieshe is inadvertently shielding a lot of public information from disclosure," Hepner said. One key witnessApple executive John Giannandrea, who headed Googles search business until 2018testified for just 10 minutes in open court before moving to a closed session that lasted four hours. The Freedom of the Press Foundation said in a blog post that Mehta has repeatedly ruled in favor of secrecy, undermining the publics trust in the eventual outcome in this case. A judges job isnt to simply accept a partys claim that public access to a trial would cause the sky to fall," the blog post said. Write to Jan Wolfe at jan.wolfe@wsj.com and Miles Kruppa at miles.kruppa@wsj.com "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Every Friday, Plain Facts publishes a compilation of data-based insights, complete with easy-to-read charts, to help you delve deeper into the stories reported by Mint in the week gone by. The Centre has stuck to its borrowing plans for the second half of the current financial year, while a report released last week showed a high level of self-employment among women since the pandemic. Meanwhile, high claims under goods and services tax (GST) from gaming firms have raised eyebrows. Borrowing basics The central government will borrow 6.55 trillion in the second half of the current financial year, sticking to its budgeted borrowing plans. The amount is 42.45% of its budgeted gross market borrowing of 15.43 trillion for the full year, which will be done through dated securities, including 20,000 crore through sovereign green bonds. The government will also issue 50-year securities for the first time, in response to a market demand for longer-duration securities. Womens woes The Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown forced workers to rely on agriculture or self-employment for survival. The share of self-employed workers among men increased from 50% in April-June 2019 to 58.2% in April-June 2020 but began falling after that, according to the latest State of Working India (SWI) report, released last week by the Centre for Sustainable Employment at Azim Premji University. However, for women, it remained elevated at 61% until April-June 2022, compared to 50% three years ago. Hard gambling 1.5 trillion: Thats the cumulative amount the Directorate General of GST Intelligence is expected to issue as tax demands to companies in the online gaming sector for alleged underpayment of taxes over several years, Mint reported. Recently, Mumbai-based Sporta Technologies, which runs the popular fantasy gaming platform Dream11, received a tax notice of 55,000 crore, which the company has challenged in court. Several other companies are likely to receive similar notices. Fleeing FPIs While domestic markets touched new highs earlier this month, buoyed by rich domestic interest, foreign portfolio investors have offloaded shares worth over 10,000 crore in September so far, a Mint analysis showed. After remaining net buyers of Indian equities for six months, FPIs began selling in September, which is in line with trends seen in other emerging market economies as well. Allocation towards high-yield bonds is likely to keep the foreign capital away and the selling spree is likely to continue for some more time. Cautionary tale Despite being one of the biggest and well-known investors, SoftBank Group is facing the ire of a section of investors as misadventures with past investments linger on. The Japanese majors several high-profile IPOs are currently yielding negative returns: Chinese ride-hailing company DiDi Global, valued at $63 billion, is down 77% from its offer price, and artificial intelligence software provider SenseTime is down 64%, an analysis by howindialives.com showed. Byjus layoffs 4,000: Thats the number of employees Byjus, Indias largest edtech startup, is planning to fire in the latest round of layoffs, Mint reported. The move comes just a few days after the appointment of Arjun Mohan as the companys new chief executive officer for India. Senior executives are also likely to be among the ones to get fired, which will reduce the firms cost and management-related expenses. The company is facing a tight liquidity situation and has vacated office spaces and is exploring sale of its subsidiaries. RERAs results Delays in completion of real estate projects had become a big issue before the introduction of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act or RERA in 2016. After six years, the act has ensured timely delivery of projects, particularly in states where it has been fully implemented. However, city-wise differences still exist. Chennai, Mumbai, Pune and Bengaluru have over 80% completion rate, while Hyderabad, the National Capital Region and Kolkata are slightly behind with less than 75% completion rate. Chart of the week: Frontline battle India had an estimated 6.6 million frontline workers in 2022-23, down 17.5% from 2021-22 due to global macroeconomic challenges, mainly dragged down by decline in the e-commerce sector, according to a report released by BetterPlace, a workforce SaaS platform. Follow our data stories on the In Charts" and Plain Facts" pages on the Mint website. WASHINGTONLina Khan made her name in Washington by writing a withering legal broadside against Amazon that condemned the retailer for several forms of anticompetitive conduct. This week, she narrowed her sights. Khans legal dissection of Amazon appeared in 2017, when she was still a Yale law student and Amazon was growing quickly and yielding thinner profit margins than today. Now chair of the Federal Trade Commission, Khan delivered her sequel on Tuesday, suing the worlds fifth-largest public company for abusing its monopoly in e-commerce. The FTCs lawsuit against Amazon offers a more streamlined complaint than either Khans essay or an earlier congressional report about big technology companies that she helped write. For starters, the central charge is turned on its head. In her 2017 academic paper, Khan argued that Amazon sweet-talked customers by using predatory pricing, or slashed prices so low that it lost money but rivals couldnt compete. Her paper acknowledged that predatory pricing was almost obsolete as a legal theory, the Supreme Court having set the bar so high that enforcers stopped trying to prove it. Now the FTC accuses Amazon of hurting consumers with higher prices, mainly through punishing its marketplace sellers if they offer lower discounts anywhere else. It also says Amazon reaps the fruits of monopoly by requiring sellers to use its fulfillment service. Its really hard to square the circle of the earlier theory of harm that Lina Khan enunciated with the current complaint," said John Mayo, an economist who leads Georgetown Universitys Center for Business and Public Policy. The earlier complaint was that prices were going to be too low and therefore anticompetitive. And now the theory is they are too high and they are anticompetitive." Speaking on Tuesday, Khan avoided talking about her past appraisals of Amazon. She said the FTCs lawsuit breaks new ground in antitrust enforcement by tackling the unique aspects of online commerce, in which platforms such as Amazon sit between buyers and sellers, making money from both sides. This complaint really reflects the cutting edge and best thinking on how competition occurs in digital markets, and similarly the tactics that Amazon has used to suffocate rivals, deprive them of oxygen and really leave a stunted landscape in its wake," Khan said in an interview this week. Amazon is a lot bigger than it was in 2017, when it had net sales of $178 billion; last year it reported $514 billion. Today it faces competition from sellers that werent major e-commerce rivals in 2017. Walmarts share of online goods sales has grown in recent years like Amazons has, according to the FTCs lawsuit. Shopping platforms Temu and Shein, which have Chinese roots, are grabbing market share from Amazon by offering lower-priced fashion and other goods. The FTCs complaint is a mix of old and new thinking on antitrust, said Matt Stoller, director of research at the American Economic Liberties Project, a progressive group that has supported Khans aggressive antitrust agenda. California earlier made similar claims about Amazon inflating prices, and a state court there this year declined Amazons request to dismiss the case. While Khan wrote six years ago that Amazon built its monopoly using aggressive discounting, the company later switched to raising prices after it had market power, Stoller said. The most common theory of harm in antitrust involves alleging harm to consumers, typically through higher prices or reduced output or quality. A lot of people want to focus on Lina Khanbut this is bigger than one person," Stoller said. This is a result of a lot of people rethinking basic assumptions" about antitrust. Amazon on Tuesday called the FTCs claims wildly off base and said they would force it to raise prices or offer worse service. Amazon helps its marketplace sellers offer competitive prices and wont promote a bad deal to its customers, General Counsel David Zapolsky wrote on the companys policy blog. The FTC has it backwards and if they were successful in this lawsuit, the result would be anticompetitive and anti-consumer," Zapolsky wrote. The lawsuit also alleges that Amazons advertising practices contributed to its violations. Khans 2017 paper didnt address its advertising business, which was growing at the time but had less than a tenth of the revenue logged in 2022, according to Amazons securities filings. Advertising is part of the FTCs argument for why it says Amazon has provided worsening service to consumers. The companys shopping results pages are now cluttered with advertisements," making it harder to find the products they want, the FTCs lawsuit said. The ads also create a pay-to-play system for sellers that must pay for search placements through advertising," according to the complaint. Amazon is likely to argue that its ads help shoppers find the products they want. Its not clear that Amazon has an incentive to degrade the quality of its website," Mayo said. If it does so, consumers just get unhappy, and then they really do start to look for something else." The FTCs complaint doesnt take aim at several practices Khan targeted in her essay. The lawsuit doesnt really tackle, for instance, her earlier claim that Amazon used privileged data about its marketplace sellers to create copycat products that compete with them. The Wall Street Journal reported in April 2020 that Amazon employees regularly accessed documents and data from independent third-party sellers to inform decisions about which private-brand products to launch. In one example, an Amazon employee used data from a bestselling car-trunk organizer sold by a third-party vendor and later introduced an Amazon Basics version of the product, the Journal reported. Turning that claim into an antitrust violation is difficult under U.S. law, said Joe Coniglio, director of antitrust and innovation policy at the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation, a Washington think tank. The FTC would have to show that Amazon leveraged its dominance as a marketplace to secure or try to grab a monopoly in another area, he said. Thats the difference between an academic discussion and the sort of theory that you can actually bring and convince a judge on," said Coniglio, whose organization has accepted Amazon funding and wrote a report critical of Khans 2017 paper. Leveraging still comes up in the FTCs complaint. It underpins the claim that Amazon abuses its role as a marketplace to force sellers to use its fulfillment services, including its warehousing and delivery systems. Since vendors are often competing to sell the same product, they need their products to qualify for Amazons Prime shopping category, which offers faster delivery. To get that pole position, they have to use Amazons own delivery service, even though other fulfillment options could provide comparable or better service," the FTCs court complaint says. Khan wrote about Amazons logistics services in her 2017 paper, saying it shows how Amazon had used its dominance in the retail sector to create and boost a new venture in the delivery sector, inserting itself into the business of its competitors." Amazon has said that while it once required Prime sellers to use its fulfillment service to ensure their goods arrived on time, it no longer does. Write to Dave Michaels at dave.michaels@wsj.com View Full Image In Suing Amazon, FTCs Lina Khan Turns Her Earlier Pricing Argument on Its Head "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. We strongly condemn the statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia on September 27, 2023 that openly distorts and misguides the international community about 44-day war and measures undertaken following the war, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan said in a statement, Trend reports. "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia disseminates fake narratives in this statement while bluntly denying its responsibility for more than 30 years of military aggression and occupation of Azerbaijans territories, massacres and crimes against humanity committed against Azerbaijan. Azerbaijans war against Armenias occupation and aggression has always been a just war, and anti-terrorism measures of Azerbaijan of this September legitimately nullified a threat coming from the illegal Armenian armed forces that are stationed in Azerbaijan in clear violation of all the norms and principles of international law. Moreover, in contrary to lies of the MFA Armenia and unlike Armenia itself, Azerbaijan never targeted civilian Armenians. With regard to baseless claims about unwillingness of resolving the situation through political and diplomatic means, we would like to remind the Armenian side how this country has torpedoed all the peace efforts not only during the 30 years of occupation, but also during the post-conflict period. While on September 21 Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said that there is no direct threat to the civilian population, dissemination by the MFA Armenia by all means that there is an ethnic cleansing of local Armenians clearly demonstrates how inconsistent and false the policy and narrative of Armenia is. We reiterate that Azerbaijan has nothing to do with the decision by local Armenians of the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan to move to Armenia or any other country. We are willing to create them a condition for better livelihood than they were under the hostage of military junta created by Armenia. Azerbaijan is determined to reintegrate Armenian residents as equal citizens and the Constitution, the national legislation of Azerbaijan, and international commitments we have undertaken provide the solid ground to this end. We do understand how it hurts Armenia to see a separatist regime established in the territories of Azerbaijan has been collapsing and disappearing before its eyes, but now it would be better for them to focus on building peace and trust with Azerbaijan, based on respect to territorial integrity and sovereignty both in words and deeds," the statement reads. LAPLACE, La.Two years after Hurricane Ida struck the Gulf Coast, Winona and Charles Barnette are still struggling to repair their home here. The Category 4 storm toppled a tree that smashed through their roof and triggered flooding that brought 3 feet of water into their house. The couple lived in a Federal Emergency Management Agency trailer for months and relied on relief money from the agency to pay for new appliances. They have battled with the company handling their home insurance to try to cover the costs of repairs and have ended up doing much of the work themselvesall while their premium has climbed sharply. Now they are thinking of giving up on the house altogether and moving to safer ground. Were looking to sell it as soon as we can," said Winona Barnette. The cost of living with intense storms is prompting some residents to consider leaving this already depopulating area west of New Orleans, which sits near sea level and has taken a pounding in recent years from a succession of floods and major storms. Straddling the Mississippi River and bordered by swampland, St. John the Baptist Parish, which includes LaPlace, lost a higher percentage of people than any other county in the U.S. except Californias Lassen Countywhich has been hit by wildfiresfrom 2021 to 2022. The loss of people in places such as St. John the Baptist Parish compounds Louisianas struggle with anemic population growth, which hinders the states economy, as other parts of the South are booming. Parts of Louisiana and elsewhere along the U.S. coast have reached a tipping point, said Roy Wright, chief executive of the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, an industry-backed research organization. The consequence of mother nature ramming at them has grown to a point at which its no longer incidentalits consequential to their familys budget in any given year," he said. Bouts of extreme weather threaten homes and real-estate values and upend the property insurance market across the state. Louisianas next insurance commissionerRepublican Tim Temple, who is scheduled to assume the position in Januaryrecently called for a special legislative session to address the issue. Some states along the Gulf Coast and East Coast are confronting similar challenges. In Florida, which has the highest average home-insurance premium in the U.S., storms in recent years have devastated parts of the state, and some carriers have pulled back, in part because of what the insurance industry considers an abusive litigation environment. Hurricanes including Ida, Laura, Delta and Zeta battered Louisiana in 2020 and 2021. Ida was the second-most-damaging storm ever to hit Louisiana, surpassed only by 2005s Hurricane Katrina. Ida killed 30 people and caused at least $18 billion in damages. Insurers paid out more than $23 billion in insured losses from more than 800,000 claims related to the two years of storm activity, according to a recent report by the Insurance Information Institute, an industry group. The heavy losses prompted a pullback by insurers. Twelve that write home coverage in the state were declared insolvent between July 2021 and February 2023, and more than 50 stopped taking new policies in hurricane-prone parishes, the report said. The number of policies at the states insurer of last resort, Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corp., surged to about 132,000 policyholders from about 35,000 two years ago, according to the Louisiana Department of Insurance. Future severe storms could drive away more insurers, said Jim Donelon, Louisianas longtime insurance commissioner, who is retiring. And soaring premiums could prompt more people to move away from places such as St. John the Baptist Parish, the Republican said. My expectation is that we are seeing what the future is," Donelon said. We can adapt and live with it. Its not going to be inexpensive." Asked how much insurance costs are pushing people to move away from parishes such as St. John the Baptist, he said, significantly." St. John the Baptist Parishs population declined 5.1% to 39,864 from 2021 to 2022, the largest percentage drop of any county in the South, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates. Of the 10 counties in the U.S. that lost the highest proportion of population over that year, four were Louisiana parishes. Many homes in the working-class, unincorporated communities of LaPlace and nearby Reserve are empty, and for-sale signs abound. Construction equipment sits on some properties that are in various stages of repair. Ida severely damaged the roof of the brick-and-siding home where Dana Jenkins and her family have lived for decades. Rain entered the house, seeping down its walls and soaking the insulation. Their home and flood policies covered some repair costs but not all, and work is only partly completed. Jenkins, a home tutor for children with special needs and a mother of seven, said she spends much of her time talking with insurance adjusters and agents trying to secure reimbursements for mounting costs. Its nothing to them, but this is my life," Jenkins, 53, said recently as she stood in the sweltering Louisiana heat beside the trailer. This is very stressful." Some of Jenkinss older children live in the partially fixed house now, but she and her husband still live in a rented trailer on their front lawn. Her home-insurance rates have skyrocketed, from about $200 a month a few years ago to more than $1,000 a month now. The family has too many roots in the community to leave, Jenkins said, but some neighbors have sold their homes and moved away. Others have simply left their houses unoccupied, with overgrown lawns and shuttered windows. After Hurricane Katrina hit Louisiana, the state set up a $100 million fund that offered grants to insurers if they sold a certain number of policies in parts of the state closer to the Gulf and stayed in the state for at least five years. Earlier this year, Louisiana lawmakers approved a $55 million incentive fund to try to persuade more insurers to write policies in the state. Christine Berry, a professor of risk management at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, said that long term, the state has to focus on strengthening homes against storms where possible and helping people move away from areas that will soon become uninhabitable because of rising sea levels and flooding risks. The mindset has to change," Berry said. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans to spend billions of dollars on a new levee system to protect the area west of New Orleans, and more houses are being fortified to better withstand high winds, heavy rains and flooding through government programs. But any effect those efforts may have in easing the insurance crisis would likely be years away. In addition to higher costs for home insurance, which typically covers only wind damage from storms, states such as Louisiana also are confronting rising flood-insurance premiums as a result of a recent overhaul of the pricing method used by the National Flood Insurance Program, the main provider of flood coverage in the U.S. Under the new system, dubbed Risk Rating 2.0," some policyholders in especially vulnerable areas are facing big premium hikes that phase in over time for those with existing policies. In Louisianas coastal Plaquemines Parish, average annual premiums are set to soar more than sixfold, to $5,431, from 2022 rates, according to recently released FEMA data. In St. John the Baptist Parish, they are set to double to $2,074. Write to Cameron McWhirter at Cameron.McWhirter@wsj.com and Arian Campo-Flores at arian.campo-flores@dowjones.com Dixon Technologies share price rose nearly 2% and touched 52-week high on Thursday's trade following the company's arm's signing of a contract with Xiaomi Technology India Pvt Ltd for the production of smart phones. Dixon share price opened at 5,334.95 apiece on BSE and hit intraday high at 5,379.85 and low at 5,241.50. Dixon Technologies shares during Thursday's session slipped into the red zone. For last three straight sessions, Dixon Technologies stock price saw gains. According to Rajesh Bhosale - Equity Technical and Derivative Analyst, Angel One, this week has witnessed robust momentum in the stock price, resulting in significant outperformance. Also Read: MCX share price hits record high as exchange set to launch commodity platform "Nonetheless, as we approach the monthly expiry, there is a degree of caution evident at elevated levels. Nevertheless, the overall sentiment remains bullish, and investors should maintain a positive outlook on this stock. Utilising downturns as buying opportunities is recommended, with initial support levels expected around 5,180, while resistance is notable at the 5,500 mark," said Bhosale. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! According to a filing with the exchange, the company's wholly owned subsidiary, Padget Electronics Pvt Ltd, has signed an agreement with Xiaomi to manufacture smartphones and other related devices on its behalf. At Padget's production plant in Noida, the manufacturing will take place. Also Read: Hindustan Aeronautics share price flat after stock split; here's what analyst says Speaking about this association, Atul B. Lall, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, Dixon Technologies said "it gives us an immense pleasure to partner with Xiaomi which is an iconic brand. We are delighted and encouraged by the trust they have reposed on Dixon for the association and believe that this association will leverage our excellence, superior execution track record and Xiaomis expertise & leadership in Indian business ecosystem and it represents a major milestone in Indian Governments Make in India" initiative. We see them as an ideal strategic partner who shares our core values: quality, engineering, prowess and customer satisfaction. We are confident this is just a beginning of a long and prolific relationship and there is immense potential to further build on shared capabilities to deliver sustainable growth," He further stated that, Dixons wholly owned subsidiary, Padget Electronics is one of the few Companies who have received PLI scheme approval from the Government of India (GOI)." Also Read:Stock market: NSE, BSE settlement holiday shifted to 29th September. Details here Dixon Technologies (India) Ltd reported a 47.89% rise in consolidated net profit to 67.19 crore for the June quarter, up 48% from 45.43 crore in the year- ago period. The company reported a 15% YoY (year-on-year) rise in consolidated revenue from operations at 3,271.50 crore against 2,855.07 crore year ago. Also Read: Dixon Technologies Q1 net profit rises 48% to 67.19 crore, revenue up 15% "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Among the most popular stocks in the market right now is Tata Motors. Its not only up 60% since the start of the year, but also an incredible 150% since the rally began towards the end of March. And if you go back to the bottom of the covid crash, the stock has been a ten bagger. Traders who wanted short term gains are very happy. Long term investors too are probably sitting on decent profits right now. But what happens next? Can the stock go higher? Lets try to answer that. Why Tata Motors Stock is Rising There are a three main reasons for the bullish market sentiment surrounding this stock. All there reasons are good enough on their own to paint a positive picture. When considered together, its easy to see why both investors and traders are reluctant to sell the stock. Lets consider them one at a time #1 Indias EV Leader Tata Motors is the dominant force in the Indian electric vehicle (EV) market. This dominance will likely continue for at least a few more years, perhaps longer. And every potential car buyer in India is acutely aware of it. The situation with the company is akin to a brand name being associated with a technology. Like how Xerox was associated with photocopying. In the case of Tata Motors, its EVs in the Indian auto market. If youre in the market for an EV, you will think of Tata Motors first, probably the Nexon. And many people wont even think of another brand at all. This situation wont change until the company faces serious competition from other EV makers. That will eventually happen of course. But its not the case today. In fact, we believe its now safe to say that Tata Motors is slowly but surely changing how the world looks at India when it comes to technology. If someone asked you to name the first thing that comes to your mind about German or Japanese technology, it would likely be their cars. BMW and Volkswagen are symbols of German engineering. Honda and Toyota are symbols of Japanese engineering. As the world transitions from conventional vehicles to EVs, Tata Motors will make a name for itself globally, just as it has already done in India. Auto analysts have projected Indias total EV market, not just cars, to grow exponentially and reach a size of about $150 billion (bn) by 2030. Even if the Indian EV market doesnt get to that lofty target, we believe getting to a size of $100 bn by 2030 should be achievable. This is based on current growth rates, the ambitious expansion plans of Indias auto makers, and the governments support. In comparison, the market-cap of Tata Motors the entire company including the commercial vehicles business and JLR is under $25 bn today. The company has a clear plan to transition to a mostly EV company by 2030 and has backed the plan with billions in funding, leadership support, and technology partnerships. The most recent example of the companys EV push is the expansion of their Sanand plant in Gujarat. The Sanand plant is Tata Motors' largest manufacturing facility in India. It currently produces a wide range of vehicles which includes the Tiago, Nexon, and Altroz. The expansion of the Sanand plant will see the addition of a new lithium-ion battery production facility, expected to be operational by as early as 2025. The Tata Group's investment in lithium-ion batteries is part of its broader strategy to transition to electric vehicles. The company is also working on developing its own electric vehicle charging infrastructure. So its not surprising the market is bullish on the stock for the long term. We may even go as far as to say it would be foolish not to be bullish. #2 Improving Fundamentals The market would not be as bullish as it is if the company wasnt doing well financially. After all, one bad quarterly result is enough for the stock market to turn negative on a hot stock. One look at the long term chart of Tata Motors will tell you how the market has oscillated between optimism and pessimism. Tata Motors shareholders are not strangers to this kind of market behaviour. View Full Image (EM) You cant help but notice that the stock isnt any higher than where it was back in early 2015. Thats about eight and a half years of zero returns. Some long term investors, who were unlucky with their timing, would be painfully aware of this. But things have changed for the better in the company. A large part of the improvement happened under the leadership of the current Tata group Chairman, Natarajan Chandrasekaran. The senior management has focused on putting its house in order. The company become profitable again in FY23 after posting what seemed like never ending losses. The sales growth has been solid over the last few years. Its operating margins have also been improving steadily. This steady margin improvement is what has led to the positive bottomline. The business is doing quite well. This is evident from the cash flow from operations, which is close to double the number it was just four years ago. The only concern is debt. The companys debt to equity is 2. But that wont be a problem as long as the cash keeps flowing in. #3 Tata Technologies IPO This is perhaps the most anticipated IPO of the year. Tata Technologies is a subsidiary of Tata Motors. Its one of the leading players in automotive ER&D services globally. It offers end-to-end solutions for EV development, manufacturing, and after-sales services. Tata Technologies global clientele comprises 35 traditional OEM and tier-I suppliers, and 12 EV companies. On 9 March 2023, Tata Motors filed a statement with the stock exchanges saying that its subsidiary Tata Technologies has filed a draft red herring prospectus with the market regulator. According to the exchange filing, the IPO comprises an offer for sale (OFS) of up to 950 million (m) shares, representing approximately 23.6% of its paid-up share capital. The offer is being made through the book-building process, in which not less than 15% of the offer must be made available to non-institutional investors and not less than 35% of the offer must be made available to retail individual investors. Not more than 50% of the offer may be allocated to qualified institutional buyers. As per the DRHP, the company's revenue from operations for the nine-month period ended 31 December 2022 was 30,117.9 m, registering a growth of 15.5%. View Full Image (EM) The market regulator gave its approval for the IPO in June 2023. Since then there has been rampant speculation in the market about the launch date. Everything from the price band, to the GMP, to the marketcap, has been discussed extensively in the media. The IPO could hit the market at any time. This is a big trigger for the stock of Tata Motors. Conclusion There are strong reasons driving the stock of Tata Motors. These reasons are both short term and long term in nature. These reasons could see the stock go higher or maybe prevent a significant correction. However, investors should not jump into the stock just because it makes sense to be bullish due to these reasons. Every investor and hence every investment, is unique. Do your own due diligence before considering an investment in any stock, even Tata Motors. Also keep in mind that investing in any stock based on the anticipation of an IPO, in the hope of making quick profits, is nothing but risky speculation. This is true even in the case of a reputed stock like Tata Motors. Its completely possible to lose money in such endeavours. Having said that, the future of the company and the stock looks bright. Happy Investing! Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only. It is not a stock recommendation and should not be treated as such. This article is syndicated from Equitymaster.com For Anjali Bhardwaj, a resident of Gurugram, catastrophe struck four years ago . Her husband needed a lung transplant urgently. She got his name registered on the deceased-donor transplant waiting list in 2019. Barely five months later, he died, waiting in vain for a donor. The ordeal shattered Bharadwaj (50), a living organ donorshe had donated a portion of her liver to her husband in 2007. Bharadwaj believes he would still have been alive had there been more deceased donations in India, To be sure, deceased donation is the process of giving an organ or a part of an organ at the time of the donors death for transplantation in another person. There are fewer deceased donations in India, unlike in the West. Data from National Organ & Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), a government body under the ministry of health and family welfare, shows there were just 941 deceased donors in the country in 2022 versus 930 in 2016. Total transplants grew from 9,022 in 2016 to 16,041 in 2022. Yet, the number of patients waiting for a transplant continues to grow astronomically. View Full Image Graphic: Mint Consolidated data on organ donors is not publicly available. We work with guesstimates of 500,000 individuals suffering from organ failure, with around half of them on dialysis, 150,000 suffering from liver failure and 100,000 from heart, lung and other vital organ failure," says Jaya Jairam, project director at MOHAN Foundation, a non-profit organization that works in the field of deceased donation. Jairam, a recipient of an organ donation, works to spread awareness about deceased donation. Separately, awareness drives on organ donation by the government, NGOs and individuals is helping the cause. The number of people who have pledged to donate their organs after death has reached 466,055, shows data from NOTTO, which maintains a database of all pledges. But that number is just not enough to meet the demand for organ transplantation. Moreover, not all deaths qualify for organ donations. Vital organs such as heart, lung, kidneys and pancreas can only be harvested from people who have been pronounced brain-dead by doctors. Dr Nimesh Mehta, an ophthalmologist, says fewer than 4% people die in a hospital, after they are on a ventilator, in a manner that has the potential to facilitate organ donation. These include the terminally ill or people who sustain fatal injuries in a road accident and die after admission to a hospital ." To be sure, there is a time limit for harvesting the organs and transplanting them. It is the least in case of heart and lungs (about 4-6 hours). For liver and pancreas , it is 24 hours and for kidneys, it is up to 72 hours," Mehta says. In the case of those who have taken an organ donation pledge and die a natural death at home, the harvesting cannot be done unless the family informs the hospital or NGO concerned about the death immediately. Tissues like corneas, heart valves, skin, bones, etc, can still be harvested even if there is some delay," he adds. Medical experts say that a single body, or cadaver, donation can save up to eight lives and impact more than 75 others. Take a pledge, create a living will Medical tests are not required to register for organ donation. Those who wish to donate their organs can fill up the pledge form on NOTTOs website. One can also do so via registered non-government organizations (NGOs) or authorized hospitals. But a pledge alone doesnt guarantee organ donation. Hospitals still require the consent of the deceaseds family. The pledge form requires you to mention at least one family witness and their contact number. First, convince your family members so that in your absence they are mentally prepared to make it happen," says Kamal Khurana, general secretary at Dadhichi Deh Dan Samiti, an NGO. A living-will is another way of donating your organs or your entire body. It is a legal document of an advanced medical directive in which individuals can express their desire for future medical action against end-of-life care if they go into a coma. For example, they can decide on whether they want to be kept alive with life-support equipment. Not many people are aware that they can include organ and tissue donation in their living-will," says certified financial planner Viresh Patel who has drafted his own living-will. Its better to include it in the living and regular will both. Also record a video and provide its details in both wills" he says. Organizations such as Aasaan Will, Yellow and estate planning firms can help you create a living-will. You need to name an executor (preferably a family member) in the document who will execute the living-will in your absence. It must be attested by the executor, two independent witnesses, and countersigned by a notary or gazetted officer," says Niranjan Vemulkar, CEO, Yellow, a digital will-making platform. The awareness around organ donation is a crucial part of our message when we discuss legacy planning with our clients. Conversations with close family members are the most important part of the process. We also advise them to share their wishes with doctors and designated local government officers through a living will document. It is crucial that all important stakeholders are aware of your wish to donate organs after your death," he adds. Fewer pledges, many challenges An Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurances 2019 study, conducted in association with Karvy Insights, shows that a majority of the people are aware of organ donation but only 35% understand the process. While 67% believe that it is important, 24% are willing to donate their organs, and a meagre 3% have registered with an authority. Even in cases where people have pledged their organs, their family members offer resistance for various reasons, beliefs and even superstitions about body mutilation. Some are even worried that they may be asked to pay for the costs of the ventilator. In the case of an organ donor, the family doesnt have to pay anything. After the organs are harvested, the body is returned to the family with all due respect," says Jairam. In case of people who donate their bodies for research purposes, the cadaver is given to a medical college. There are other challenges as well. One is infrastructure and logistics. Harvested organs may need to be transported to different hospitals, sometimes from one part of the country to another within the set timeframe. This is a hurdle in case of accidents in places without good connectivity. Not all hospitals are equipped to declare a patient brain-dead. Also, though we have green corridors and chartered planes for quicker transportation of organs, we need better inter-state coordination," says Khurana. Separately, NOTTO launched a new Aadhaar-linked organ and tissue donation pledge registry last month to enrich its database for faster dissemination of information across stakeholders. The insurance puzzle Organ transplants are an expensive affair. Earlier, health insurance policies only covered the recipients medical expenses in cases of transplants. Now, donor expenses are covered under the same policy. Some insurers may require you to buy a separate critical illness rider to cover organ transplantation. Donors dont have to pay anything for organ donation. The recipients policy will take care of that. However, the cover will be restricted up to the sum insured. Some insurers offer reverse coverage as a goodwill gesture. This means if the recipients do not have a policy or have exhausted their coverage, the donors insurer may agree to cover the costs," says Amit Chhabra, chief business officer, PolicyBazaar.com. The goodwill gesture, though, is uncommon. Rohini Deepthi Natti (38) donated 65% (one lobe) of her liver to her dad in December 2019. Natti and her father both had individual insurance policies. Rohinis insurer had initially told her that the policy covered all her expenses but later denied the claim. They told me donors insurers dont cover organ transplants. I had clearly explained my case before the transplant and yet the insurer misguided me. Had I been aware of the clause, I could have included my expenses under my fathers policy," says Natti. Can organ donors get a fresh policy or port the existing one? That, say insurance experts, is a difficult proposition. Natti could not port her policy. They told me that liver-related diseases will not be included in the policy if I port," she says. Chhabra says the policy coverage depends on underwriting norms of an insurer based on the medical history of a customer. Organ donors may still get the policy but its harder for recipients," he says. Rahul Kumar Prajapatis is a case in point. The 29-year-old had a heart transplant surgery in 2018. Despite leading a healthy life since, he has failed to get a health insurance policy. The same applies to life insurance. Not enough data is available to analyse mortality issues. But we dont deny covers to donors. They may have to go for additional tests and pay some extra premium or a longer waiting period for diseases linked to that organ," Anup Seth, chief distribution officer at Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurance. Jairam of MOHAN Foundation says the organization is working with insurers to quantify risks in providing medical cover to both organ donors and recipients. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Bhagat Singh birth anniversary: Beacon of courage PM Modi, other leaders pay tribute to the legendary freedom fighter 2 min read Join us Bhagat Singh, a freedom fighter, was born on September 28, 1907. He was sentenced to death by the British government at the age of 23. His sacrifice continues to inspire generations. Premium Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 28 September paid tributes to the legendary revolutionary Shaheed Bhagat Singh on his birth anniversary. (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 28 September paid tributes to the legendary revolutionary Shaheed Bhagat Singh on his birth anniversary. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister shared a video message and called freedom fighter a beacon of courage. He wrote, Remembering Shaheed Bhagat Singh on his birth anniversary. His sacrifice and unwavering dedication to the cause of Indias freedom continue to inspire generations. A beacon of courage, he will forever be a symbol of India's relentless fight for justice and liberty." Delhi CM and AAP national convenor wrote, Tributes to Shaheed-e-Azam Sardar Bhagat Singh ji, who sacrificed his life for the freedom of the country, on his birth anniversary. Let us all together create the India of Bhagat Singh ji's dreams, make India the number 1 country in the world." Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann said, I am a book of emotions..my words are made of steel, Patriotism is my body.. and the intention is revolutionary..! Shaheed-e-Azam Sardar Bhagat Singh... who will continue to rule our hearts and minds till the end of the world... Bhagat Singh's slogans of revolution will continue to cool the fire of oppression whenever it arises... Today, on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh, I sincerely salute the revolutionary soul...Bhagat Singh will always remain immortal in our thoughts..." Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, I remember and salute the true son of Mother India and immortal revolutionary, Sardar Bhagat Singh, on his birth anniversary. Without caring for his life, he fought throughout his life to liberate India. His dedication, sacrifice and sacrifice towards the country will continue to inspire every generation of India." Bhagat Singh was born on 28 September 1907 at Banga in Punjab, British India in a Sikh family. At the young age of 23, he was sentenced to death by the British government in the Lahore conspiracy case on 23 March 1931. At the age of 12, He had seen the JallianwalaBagh massacre, after which he took a vow to free India from Britishers. He was a member of the Hindustan Republican Association. After witnessing the brutal beating and death of Lala Lajpat Rai, Bhagat Singh and his fellow revolutionaries pledged to take revenge. Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru targeted John P. Saunders (who was mistaken for James A. Scott) police officer responsible for Lalas death. All three revolutionaries were executed in secrecy on 23 March 1931, even before their trial on 24 March. Their deaths shook the whole country and left a deep void in the hearts of the people. Earlier in August, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had strongly advocated for conferring the prestigious Bharat Ratna award upon the freedom fighters Udham Singh, Bhagat Singh and Kartar Singh Sarabha. He had expressed his belief that honouring these iconic martyrs with the Bharat Ratna would elevate the significance of the award, considering their supreme sacrifices in liberating the nation from British rule. "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 last day also known has Anant Chaturdashi of the 10-day Ganpati festival is today i.e. on 28 September. Mumbai Police will be deploying more than 19,000 personnel, including officers, to thwart any untoward incident when processions will be taken out to immerse idols of Lord Ganesha. Amid this, the weather department has also issued rainfall warning in various parts of Maharashtra today. As per Regional Meteorological Center (RMC) Mumbai, an orange alert of heavy to very heavy rains has been issued in Ratnagiri. AS per RMC Mumbai, thunderstorm with lightning, gusty winds at isolated places is very likely. In another update, a yellow alert has been issued in Palghar, Thane, Mumbai, Raigad districts today on the last day of the Ganpati festival. In Nashik, heavy rains lashed the city on Wednesday which lead to the discharge of water from various dams and subsequent rise of water level in Godavari river, an official said as reported by PTI. Due to heavy showers over the past few days, authorities have been discharging water from dams like Gangapur, Nandur-Madhyameshwar, Kadwa, Palkhed, Karanjwan, Waghad and Darna. On Wednesday evening, at least seven two-wheelers and a tanker parked on the premises of a business complex in Thane were damaged after a huge tree fell on them amid heavy rain. Thane received a total rainfall of 3251.99 mm between June 1 and September 27. The city had received 2795.62 mm of rainfall during the same period last year, according to TMC. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) leader Sanjay Raut hit out at Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde over the rainfall situation in the state that has triggered waterlogging and floods at several parts of Maharashtra. "The whole of Nagpur is flooded; parts of Maharashtra are facing drought; why did the CM not visit those areas? Despite visiting flood-affected areas he is busy celebrating the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi with Bollywood and Tollywood celebrities?," Raut asserted while speaking at a media conference. Coming back to Ganesh Visarjan today, an official had told PTI that, Considering that a large number of Mumbaikars throng streets to bid adieu to Ganpati bappa on Anant Chaturdashi, Mumbai Police is ready with the deployment of personnel to avoid any kind of untoward incidents." Traffic Police personnel will ensure that traffic snarls are avoided when processions will be taken out, he said. Today, thousands of household and public Ganesh idols will be immersed at 73 places, including at Girgaon Dadar, Juhu, Marve and Aksa beaches, on Anant Chaturdashi. The Mumbai civic body has also made preparations for the immersion processions. All the processions in the city will be closely monitored by CCTV cameras, the official said, adding that policemen in plain clothes will mingle in the crowd to ensure that law and order is maintained. Separate control rooms will be set up to monitor the immersion processions, the official added. (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! Jaishankar-Blinken meet: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has arrived in Washington, DC today and will be engaging with a number of delegates. Jaishankar-Blinken meet will come amid the ongoing diplomatic crisis between India and Canada. Apart from Blinken, EAM is also set to US Trade Representative, Ambassador Katherine Tai in a closed press meeting, White House officials, members of the US administration, business leaders and think tanks. Last week, Jaishankar had met his US counterpart Blinken in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa were also present at the Quad meeting. Also Read: Nijjar killing row: Canada has seen a lot of organized crime, says Jaishankar Here are 10 points you need to know 1. The US State Department spokesperson Mathew Miller informed that the India-Canada diplomatic standoff regarding the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar didnt come up during last week's meeting between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Secretary of State Antony Blinken. 2. While answering on India Canada diplomatic row, Miller said, That was not a bilateral meeting. It was a meeting of a number of countries. Did not come up in that meeting. We have engaged with our Indian counterparts on this issue and urged them to fully cooperate with the Canadian investigation," said State Department spokesperson Mathew Miller, while answering to India-Canada diplomatic row. As we have made clear, we have raised this. We have engaged with our Indian counter on this and encouraged them to cooperate with the Canadian investigation and we continue to encourage them to cooperate," he added. 3. Earlier on Tuesday, when Jaishankar addressed the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, he said that political convenience" should not be countenanced in determining responses to terrorism and extremism in an apparent reference to Canada amid a diplomatic standoff between the two countries. 4. He had also said that respect for territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs cannot be exercised in cherry-picking. Jaishankar said there is a thrust on the promotion of a rules-based order and respect for the UN Charter is also invoked and that rules will work only when they apply equally to all. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! 5. EAM also took a jibe at some nations and said, "In our deliberations, we often advocate the promotion of a rules-based order. From time to time, respect for the UN Charter is also involved. But for all the talk, it is still a few nations that shape the agenda and seek to define the norms. This can't go on indefinitely nor will it go unchallenged. A fair, equitable and democratic order will surely emerge once we all put our minds to it. And for a start, that means ensuring that rule-makers do not subjugate rule-takers." 6. The External Affairs Minister had also refused to comment on the reports sharing of intelligence between Five Eyes countries on Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjars killing. I am not part of The Five Eyes", the minister said during the Discussion at Council on Foreign Relations' in New York. 7. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged that the Indian government was behind the killing of Nijjar, 45, outside a gurdwara in Surrey in British Columbia on June 18. India had designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020. Both the countries at G20 had a sideline conversation on the issues. It later emerged that Trudeau had brought up the allegations on the Sikhs murder, which Modi had responded with criticism on Canada becoming a safe haven for separatist groups. 8. India has rejected the allegations as "absurd" and "motivated" and expelled a senior Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move to Ottawa's expulsion of an Indian official. India has also asked Canada to crack down on terrorists and anti-India elements operating from its soil and suspended visa services for Canadians. 9. A proposed early-stage trade deal is now in jeopardy, potentially hurting Indias efforts to woo the West and serve as a supply-chain alternative to China. Indias access to Canadian potash, a key nutrient for crops, may get affected. 10. Both nations have already expelled senior diplomats from the other side in a tit-for-tat escalation. Canada plans to reduce embassy staff as security threats rise in the South Asian country while New Delhi stopped issuing visas to Canadian citizens. (With inputs from ANI, 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! Madhya Pradesh News: The girl was in a horrifying state, said the Ujjain priest who rescued a 12-year-old rape survivor. Rahul Sharma, who is associated with an ashram on Badnagar road in the state near Ujjain , spotted the girl on Monday morning. In an interview with NDTV, the priest said, I was leaving the ashram for some work on Monday at around 9.30 am when I saw the girl. She was half-naked, and bleeding near the gates. She could not even speak. Her eyes were swollen. I gave her my clothes and dialed 100." Unfortunately, I could not reach the cops. Then I contacted the Mahakal police station and informed them about the situation here. In about 20 minutes, the police officials reached the spot," the priest told the news outlet. She was not in the condition to speak, the priest said, adding that, We asked her name. But we were not able to understand her properly. She was very scared. We told her that she is safe. We asked her to provide her contact details so that we can get in touch with her family." The girl was able to trust me. We waited for the cops to reach there. She tried to hide behind me whenever someone else tried to approach her. After a few minutes, the cops arrived and took her with them," Sharma told NDTV. A 12-year-old girl was caught on a CCTV camera going door-to-door seeking help in a semi-naked state as she bled from her private parts. On camera, the girl is seen asking for help from a man, standing outside his house, as he makes hand movements to turn her away. The girl walked on to find aid. These scenes unfolded in Ujjain city of Madhya Pradesh which has triggered outrage across the country and political circles. The girl, who is said to be mentally challenged and barely covered, was allegedly raped and dumped near an ashram. She sought help until she reached an ashram where a priest reportedly covered her in a towel and took her to the nearest hospital. While it is not known where the incident took place, it happened on September 25 and the CCTV footage was captured from Badnagar road which is about 15 km from Ujjain. The girl is now stable and her medical examination has confirmed rape; a police personnel has come forward to donate blood to her. She has also been taken to Indore for further treatment. "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 man-made Bengal famine of 1943 that pushed as many as 3 million people to starvation and eventual death deeply moved M.S. Swaminathan, then an aspiring medical student. He changed his field to study agriculture, specializing in genetics and breeding, driven by its potential to improve crop varieties and human lives. The architect of Indias Green Revolution, Swaminathan died on Thursday in Chennaia rare scientific luminary who chose to live and work in India. He was 98. Swaminathan was instrumental in doubling Indias wheat production within a short time, pulling the country out of its ship-to-mouth dependence on food aid from the US. In 1966, faced with a severe drought, India imported 10 million tonnes of wheat. The Green Revolution began in 1965 and focused on introducing high-yielding dwarf wheat varieties to farmers in North India. They were grown with chemical fertilizers and pesticides to maximize yields, and farmers were assured a guaranteed price. Swaminathans vision transformed India from a begging bowl to a breadbasket almost overnight, the World Food Foundation said, honouring him as its first World Food Prize laureate in 1987. In 1971, he won the Ramon Magsaysay Award for being both a first-rate scientist and a humanist. Yields achieved in 4,000 years of the known history of wheat cultivation in the Indian subcontinent, from the time of Mohenjo-Daro, were doubled in four years, 1964 to 1968," Swaminathan said in an interview with the UNs Food and Agriculture Organization in 2014. The wheat revolution was later replicated in crops like rice, maize, sorghum and potato. For introducing the new varieties to Indian farmers, Swaminathan worked closely with agronomist and plant breeder Norman Borlaug in the 1950s. Borlaug went on to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970 for his work on new wheat varieties in Mexico, India and Pakistan. Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels: Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights! Click here! Swaminathan was more than just a plant breeder. He was a passionate administrator who headed the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, worked closely with farmers across India, and was principal secretary in the agriculture ministry (1979-80). He was also a member of the Planning Commission (1980-82) and director general of the International Rice Research Institute in the Philippines. Swaminathan is also an often-cited name among farmers, a unique achievement for a scientist, for a series of reports he submitted to the government between 2004 and 2006. As chair of the National Commission of Farmers, the Swaminathan Report probed the causes of farm distress. One of its recommendations, that minimum support prices (MSP) should at least be 50% more than average production costs, continues to be a primary demand of farm unions across India. MSP is the price at which the government purchases crops directly from farmers. Also Read: Cheap wheat imports will reverse success of green revolution: M.S. Swaminathan Swaminathan also courted a few controversies. After terming genetically modified (GM) cotton (introduced to Indian farmers in 2004) a failure and questioning the safety of GM brinjal and mustard in a 2018 paper, Swaminathan came under fire from the scientific community. People should not worship technology, he later said in an interview with the journal Science. Avid practitioners of ecological and organic farming have repeatedly criticized the legacy of the Green Revolution for its role in polluting natural resources like soil and water due to the overuse of chemical nutrients and pesticides by farmers. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the chief of the banned Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) and one of India's most-wanted terrorists was shot dead by two unidentified gunmen outside a gurdwara in Surrey in the western Canadian province of British Columbia on 18 June this year. Months after his death, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau have alleged that the Indian government was behind the killing of Nijjar, 45. India had designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020. On the killing, India has rejected the allegations and called it "absurd" and "motivated" and expelled a senior Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move to Ottawa's expulsion of an Indian official. India has also asked Canada to crack down on terrorists and anti-India elements operating from its soil and suspended visa services for Canadians. Report have now emerged that Pakistan's spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) was responsible for killing Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada in order to strain India Canada ties, sources has said as reported by India Today. Other sources also told CNN-News18 that the two ISI plants in Canada, Rahat Rao and Tariq Kiyani, were given the task of killing Nijjar due to business reasons or to get more cuts from new people. According to the sources, two sought to kill Nijjar in order to take control of drugs and immigration business, as reported by the daily. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Another report have also stated that Nijjar was in touch with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) and had met senior officials just six days before he was killed, his son claimed as reported by CNN-News18. Sources told CNN-News18 that his son Balraj Singh had also claimed that that his father was meeting CSIS officials since February this year and was also suppose to meet them two days after he was killed on 18 June. According to sources, the Indian Intelligence agencies also wondered as to why Nijjar wasn't provided close proximity protection since reliable intelligence was available against Indian spies, further adding that, this demonstrated in some capacity that Canada too assisted ISI and provided access to Nijjar's murders. They also claimed that the Khalistani sympathiser was exceedingly careful and guarded, making close approach impossible without someone Nijjar knew. Meanwhile, Indian agencies had informed the Canadian government about all his terrorist activities and how he fled to Canada in 1997 but Canada did not take any action. Nijjar had applied for asylum in Canada claiming that he feared persecution in India because he belonged to 'a particular social group', reported PTI citing sources, adding Nijjar's asylum was rejected on grounds of fabricated narrative. Later, Nijjar went to Canada in 1997 using a counterfeit passport under the alias Ravi Sharma. When his asylum was rejected, Nijjar entered into a 'marriage' agreement with a woman who sponsored his immigration. And all this happened just 11 days after his first claim was rejected. Earlier, National Investigation Agency (NIA) had shared details about Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Pannun who "wants to create many countries by dividing India." The NIA document said that Pannun challenged the unity and integrity of India through his audio messages. Pannun wants a separate country for Punjabis named Khalistan, a country for Muslims named 'Democratic Republic of Urdustan', and a nation for the people of Kashmir Since Trudeau's allegations, a spiraling diplomatic crisis began as Canada asserted that it had human and signal intelligence behind its allegations. A CBC report had said the intelligence included communications involving Indian officials, among them Indian diplomats present in Canada, adding that some of the intelligence was provided by an unidentified ally in the Five Eyes alliance. Five Eyes is an intelligence-sharing network that includes the US, the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov met with the US Acting Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Yuri Kim visiting Azerbaijan, the ministry's press service told Trend. The meeting addressed the current situation in the region following Azerbaijan's anti-terrorist activities [conducted against Armenian illegal armed formations which weren't withdrawn from the country contrary to the trilateral statement signed by Azerbaijani, Armenian and Russian leaders following the 2020 second Karabakh war], as well as humanitarian aid issues. Bayramov emphasized that the cessation of the presence of Armenian illegal armed formations, which is the main threat in the region, will contribute to peace and stability. He informed about the disarmament process, measures taken by Azerbaijan to meet the needs of Armenian residents, and negotiations on the reintegration of the Armenian population. The minister noted that the ongoing smear campaign against Azerbaijan has no grounds, and Azerbaijan poses no threat to Armenian residents. Besides, he pointed out that the country is ready to organize visits by UN structures to its Karabakh region under the guidance of the UN Resident Coordinator in the country to demonstrate that the claims against Azerbaijan have no ground. Moreover, Bayramov pointed out that despite all efforts made by Azerbaijan through international partners, the Armenian side continues to obstruct the peace process. He said that Azerbaijan is interested in a peaceful process with Armenia based on mutual respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty. The meeting parties also exchanged views on other mutually interesting issues. In order to ensure the provisions of the Trilateral Statement, to stop large-scale provocations in the Karabakh economic region, to disarm and withdraw formations of the Armenian armed forces from the territories of Azerbaijan, to neutralize their military infrastructure, to ensure the safety of the peaceful population returning to the territories liberated from occupation, civil servants involved in construction and reconstruction work, and Azerbaijan's military personnel, as well as to restore the constitutional order of the Republic of Azerbaijan, anti-terrorist measures have been conducted in the region. Within the framework of the activities, positions of Armenian armed forces formations, their long-term firing points, as well as military means and military facilities, were disrupted using high-precision weapons in the front line and in depth. Civilians and civilian infrastructure were not targets, only legitimate military targets were disabled. Taking into account the appeal of the representatives of the Armenian residents of Karabakh, received through the Russian peacekeeping contingent [temporarily stationed in Azerbaijan under the trilateral statement], an agreement was reached on the suspension of anti-terrorist activities of local nature on September 20, 2023, at 13:00 (GMT+4) under the following conditions: the Armenian armed forces formations and Armenian illegal armed formations located in Azerbaijan's Karabakh region shall lay down their weapons, leave their combat positions and military posts, and fully disarm. The units of the armed forces of Armenia shall leave the territory of Azerbaijan, and the Armenian illegal armed formations shall be disbanded. Ramin Mammadov, responsible for contacts with the Armenian residents of Karabakh, held a regular meeting with representatives of the Armenian residents of Karabakh in the town of Khojaly on September 25, 2023. At the meeting, which took place in a constructive atmosphere, satisfaction was expressed with the actions taken to resolve the issues discussed on September 21 in Yevlakh, in particular the short-term delivery of humanitarian aid, fuel, and the restoration of electricity supply. Venus is an interesting planet and exploring it will help answer certain questions, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman S Somanath said while speaking about their upcoming missions. Recently, Somanath informed that there are several missions in the pipeline, of which Venus is already configured. Why ISRO is exploring Venus mission? Somanath, while addressing the Indian National Science Academy in Delhi, said, "We have a lot of missions in the conceptual phase. A mission to Venus is already configured. Payloads have already developed for it." ISRO Chairman added, It also has an atmosphere. Its atmosphere is so thick. The atmospheric pressure is 100 times that of Earth and it is full of acids. You cannot penetrate the surface. You don't know if its surface is hard or not. Why are we trying to understand all of this? Earth could be one day Venus. I don't know. Maybe 10,000 years later we (Earth) change our characteristics. Earth was never like this. It was not a habitable place long long back." Venus is the second planet from the Sun and is Earths closest planetary neighbor. Its one of the four inner, terrestrial (or rocky) planets, and its often called Earths twin because its similar in size and density. ESA's Venus Express (2006-2016) and Japan's Akatsuki Venus Climate Orbiter (since 2016) are recent Venus missions. Earlier in February 2021 flyby, NASA's Parker Solar Probe captured its first visible light images of Venus' surface. What after Chandrayaan 3 mission? Meanwhile, following the triumphant soft landing of Chandrayaan 3 on the lunar South Pole, ISRO launched the Aditya-L1 Mission to study the Sun in unprecedented detail. In only six decades, India has rapidly ascended as a global frontrunner in space technology and exploration, with much credit attributed to the ISRO. ISRO's laurels extend to space exploration as well, with feats like the Chandrayaan missions for lunar exploration, the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) in 2013India's inaugural interplanetary expeditionand the initiation of AstroSat in 2015, marking the country's first dedicated astronomical pursuit. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! RECENTLY I asked the manager of a large wine store on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, Do you have any New Zealand wines that arent Sauvignon Blanc?" The answer was no. I wasnt surprised. After all, this variety accounts for the vast majority (about 89%) of New Zealands wine exports, and almost five times more Sauvignon Blanc than Pinot Noir, the countrys second-most-popular grape, is currently planted there. While New Zealand producers turn out plenty of wines made from other grapesChardonnay, Pinot Gris, Cabernet Sauvignon and Riesling, to name a fewnot many show up in American wine stores. I couldnt help but wonder: What would I find if I went looking for New Zealand wines other than Sauvignon Blanc? In stores that stocked New Zealand Non-Sauvignon BlancsNZNSB, as I decided to call themI found two or three at most. Only two stores, both in New Jersey, stocked more: my local Total Wine & More, in West Orange, and Garys Wine & Marketplace, in Wayne. Thanks to Garys corporate wine buyer Gillian Sciaretta, the store features 12 NZNSB wines (along with 43 New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs). When Sciaretta assumed buying duties late last year, she tasted an array of New Zealand wines and was impressed with their uniform high quality. Indeed, she thought quite a few over delivered" for the price and was particularly impressed by New Zealand Pinot Noirs. I found even more NZNSBs at Total Wine & More, though I needed the assistance of a sales associate to ferret them out. There was no New Zealand section as such; instead, New Zealand Pinot Gris and Chardonnays were shelved with Chardonnays and Pinot Gris from other countries, and New Zealand sparkling roses were shelved with sparkling wines from around the world. Non-Sauvignon Blanc makes up a tiny fraction (a few measly percentage points) of the NZ wine business at Total," said Rodolphe Boulanger, Total Wine & Mores Maryland-based vice president of wine merchandising, in an email. He oversees New World wines, including those from New Zealand, for more than 255 Total Wine & More stores. The largest number of NZNSB wines in Total stores are Pinot Noirs (a distant second to Sauvignon Blancs in sales), followed by roses and Pinot Gris, a virtual tie for third place, with rose a smidge ahead," Boulanger said. This accords with the latest export stats from the New Zealand Winegrowers, which lists Sauvignon Blanc as far and away the largest export followed by Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and rose. Boulanger posited that New Zealand winemakers are in some ways victims of their own success: They have done such a good job producing and promoting Sauvignon Blanc that oenophiles have a difficult time considering their other wines. And yet, as Boulanger noted and my tasting later bore out, Kiwi producers make good to very good Pinot Noirs, good Chardonnays and decent Pinot Gris, not to mention some toothsome sparkling wines and Cabernet blends. I even found an impressive 2019 Riesling, though I wondered if the four-year-old wine was a late release by the winery or had simply languished on the shelf. That wine, the 2019 Rippon Rippon" Mature Vine Riesling Lake Wanaka Central Otago ($32), was the sole New Zealand Riesling I found. (Only 1,530 acres of Riesling were planted in New Zealand as of 2022.) It was also the only wine in my tasting closed with a cork, not a screw cap. Marked by a racy acidity with notes of lime zest, this very dry wine was lean but definitely not past its prime. I found three Pinot Gris bottlings, but two were unbalanced and overly sweet. The 2022 Fern Ridge Hawkes Bay Pinot Gris ($17), however, was crisp and dry with a pleasant tropical note. The only two Chardonnays I could unearth were from the same producer: Kumeu River Wines. The 2022 Kumeu River Estate Kumeu Chardonnay ($32) was a more complex and powerful wine, sourced from six different vineyard sites, barrel fermented and aged almost a year in barrel. The 2022 Kumeu Village Chardonnay ($20), meanwhile, was lighter and brighter, fermented mostly in stainless steel. While both are well made, I gave the Village bottling the edge, particularly in terms of price/quality ratio. The lone Cabernet blend I found, the 2018 Te Mata Awatea Cabernets/Merlot Hawkes Bay ($40), was a polished Bordeaux-style blend, soft and approachable but impressively structured. I shared it with a Bordeaux-loving friend who was astonished to learn it was produced in New Zealand. Te Mata, established in 1896, is arguably New Zealands oldest and most famous producer of Cabernet blends. Awatea is the bestselling premium Cabernet blend in its native New Zealand, according to Te Mata CEO and owner Nick Buck. Only 2,400 bottles of its 60,000-bottle production make it to the U.S. The four Pinot Noirs I purchased were all reasonably priced and well-made, though the 2020 Innocent Bystander Pinot Noir Central Otago ($20), marked by crisp red fruit and a lithe profile, impressed me the most in terms of quality and price. Lithe and rather restrained, its one of two Pinots produced under the Innocent Bystander label; the other is Australian. The McBride Sisters Collection Hawkes Bay Sparkling Brut Rose NV ($20) was an anomaly in several respects: Although its produced in Hawkes Bay, New Zealand, the entire production is shipped to the U.S. A juicy, fruity, frothy pink blend of mostly Pinot Noir and a bit of Chardonnay, it was a lot of fun. Sisters Robin McBride and Andrea McBride John grew up in California and New Zealand, respectively, and met later in life. Now they make wines in both countries, under labels including McBride Sisters Collection, SHE Can Wines and Black Girl Magic. It wasnt easy to track down the 15 bottles I managed to buy, and the effort required did raise the question: Is it worth trying to find wines imported in such small quantities? Given that oenophiles happily search for rare wines all the time (Burgundy lovers, Im looking at you), Id answer yes, especially since the wines I recommend below have such a good price/quality ratio. Perhaps an increased demand for these NZNSBs will mean that more show up on retail store shelves. OENOFILE / Non-Sauvignon-Blanc Beauties From New Zealand 1. 2022 Kumeu Village Chardonnay, $20. Sourced from vineyards in both the Kumeu and Hawkes Bay regions of New Zealands North Island, this crisp and vibrant Chardonnay is fermented in old French oak and (mostly) stainless steel. 2. 2018 Te Mata Awatea Cabernets/Merlot Hawkes Bay, $40. This savory Merlot-Cab Franc-Cabernet Sauvignon blend has notes of red and dark fruit and spice. Produced from estate fruit, its styled to be approachable in its youth, said Te Mata CEO Nick Buck. 3. 2020 Innocent Bystander Pinot Noir Central Otago, $20. Not to be mistaken with the Innocent Bystander Pinot produced in Australia, this one from New Zealands Central Otago region is a lithe, juicy red with a brisk acidity and earthy notes, well balanced and food-friendly. 4. 2022 Fern Ridge Hawkes Bay Pinot Gris, $17. Juicy tropical fruitthese are the three words that come to mind right away to describe this white wine produced in the Hawkes Bay region of New Zealand. It is also pleasant, uncomplicated, crisp and dry. 5. McBride Sisters Collection Hawkes Bay Sparkling Brut Rose NV, $20. The McBride Sisters make wines in both New Zealand and California. This pink sparkler is a juicy, frothy, fun blend grown in New Zealands Hawkes Bay. The entire production is exported to the U.S. Email Lettie at wine@wsj.com. Mubadala is in discussions to buy a stake of less than 10% in Manipal Hospitals in India. If successful, this would be the Abu Dhabi sovereign fund's first investment in the expanding Indian healthcare sector, reported Reuters. According to Reuters news report, the fund is in talks with Singapore's Temasek, which spent $2 billion in April to increase its share in Manipal from 18% to 59% in the country's largest healthcare sector acquisition. Two of the sources told Reuters that the negotiations to buy the tiny stake from Temasek are taking place at the same $5 billion valuation as the April sale, which suggests a value of up to $500 million for the Mubadala-Temasek stake deal. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Temasek said it does not comment on market speculation, while Mubadala declined to comment. Manipal did not respond to queries. Reuters is the first to report the talks," said Reuters in its report. Also Read: Manipal acquires 84% stake in AMRI for 2,300 crore The first of the sources told Reuters that the negotiations between the Singapore state investment company and Mubadala, which oversees $276 billion globally, are still in the early stages. According to the second source, Temasek is eager to sell a small amount of stake because it "wants to de-risk a little" and values are favourable. The meetings take place as investor interest in India's health care sector rapidly increases in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak amid a rise in service demand. According to Reuters report, PwC predicts that India's $48 billion private healthcare market will expand 12% to 14% annually. According to a Reuters report, Mubadala has made $4 billion in investments in India, notably in the telecom and retail companies owned by billionaire Mukesh Ambani and the renewable energy division of Tata Power. Manipal, which has its headquarters in Bengaluru, India's tech centre, operates 29 multi-specialty hospitals, mostly in the south of the country, and claims to be the nation's second-largest chain. The organisation focuses on fields including cardiology, neurosurgery, and cancer care. Also Read: KKR, Temasek eye stakes in Manipal Health "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! During the GOP's second debate for the 2024 US presidential election, Vivek Ramaswamy, a Republican Presidential candidate and Indian-American multimillionaire biotech entrepreneur, stated that he believes that gender dysphoria should be regarded as a mental health disorder. Ramaswamy said, Transgenderism is a mental health disorder. We have to acknowledge the truth of that for what it is. It is not compassionate to affirm a kid's confusion. That is not compassion. That is cruelty." Ramaswamy further informed that more than 50% of kids with gender dysphoria have considered suicide. And yet politicians reject a law that would require schools to inform parents if their kids change their gender identity at school. Parents have a right to know about their kids: that shouldnt be controversial. Ban genital mutilation & puberty blockers before age 18. Treat gender dysphoria as a mental health disorder. Time to empower parents again." Ramaswamy stressed that parents have a right to know about their kids and that shouldnt be controversial. Ban genital mutilation and puberty blockers before age 18. Treat gender dysphoria as a mental health disorder. Time to empower parents again." The second debate among Republican candidates for the 2024 election is underway at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, California. Also Read: GOP Debate: GOP Debate: Presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy says 'Transgenderism' a mental health issue. 5 Top Updates To illustrate his argument, Ramaswamy mentioned encountering two young women who later had regrets about their gender-affirming surgeries. Seven prominent Republican Party figures are taking part in the GOP's second debate to select their nominee for the 2024 US presidential election. The two-hour debate started at 9 pm EST on Wednesday (6:30 am IST on Thursday) and is being hosted at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California. Also Read: US Presidential Election 2024: Indian Americans divided over Vivek Ramaswamy, Nikki Haley Furthermore, Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump is absent from the debate stage; instead, he is in Michigan, delivering a speech at an auto parts manufacturing plant owned by Drake Enterprises. Donald Trump's campaign team has minimized the significance of the Republican primary debates, suggesting that Donald Trump considers himself beyond such proceedings. According to Trump campaign senior adviser Chris LaCivita, the debate scheduled for Wednesday, September 27, was a joke". (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! Pakistani beggars make up as much as 90 percent of beggars arrested in foreign countries, further fueling the issue of human trafficking, According to Dawn. During a discussion in the Senate panel, Overseas Ministry Secretary Zulfikar Haider disclosed that a large number of Pakistani beggars are moving abroad, adding to the problem of skilled and unskilled labor leaving the country. The Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis was informed of this on Wednesday. Haider added that a staggering 90 percent of beggars" arrested in foreign countries are of Pakistani origin, Dawn reported. Many beggars exploit pilgrim visas to travel to Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Iraq. In fact, a number of pickpockets arrested at holy sites are Pakistani nationals. Haider further said that Japan has now emerged as a new destination for such visitors, Dawn stated. 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 Pakistani senator has emphasized the need to export skilled labor in order to increase the country's foreign remittances. "Only professionals going abroad would increase the country's foreign remittances," the senator said, according to Dawn. The senator also noted that Saudi Arabia now prefers skilled labor over unskilled workers. He also pointed out that as many as 50,000 engineers in Pakistan are unemployed. "India has reached the moon, while we stumble every day," the senator added. The senator also informed that approximately three million Pakistanis are in Saudi Arabia, 1.5 million are in the UAE, and 0.2 million are in Qatar. The Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis was informed on Wednesday that a large number of beggars from Pakistan were moving abroad, which has further spurred "human trafficking". Adding to this, he noted that a significant number of pickpockets were arrested at holy sites and were identified to be Pakistani nationals. (With ANI 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! Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued a formal and unequivocal apology in parliament on Wednesday. This apology came in response to a recent incident where the legislature, albeit unintentionally, honoured a Ukrainian World War II veteran who had fought alongside the Nazis. As reported by AFP, the incident occurred during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit, causing significant disruption in Canada, leading to the resignation of the parliament's speaker, and creating diplomatic tensions. "I would like to present unreserved apologies for what took place on Friday and to President Zelensky and the Ukrainian delegation for the position they were put in, for all of us who were present," Trudeau told lawmakers. "To have unknowingly recognized this individual was a terrible mistake and a violation of the memory of those who suffered grievously at the hands of the Nazi regime." Also Read: Poland exploring extradition of Nazi war veteran lauded in Canadian Parliament The Canadian Prime Minister was addressing a regrettable occurrence during Ukrainian President Zelensky's recent visit, which caused a major controversy and ultimately resulted in the resignation of the parliament's speaker on Tuesday. Zelensky had come to Canada as part of a tour aimed at strengthening Western backing for Ukraine in its fight against the Russian invasion, AFP reported. Zelensky was present in the chamber as a distinguished guest when the speaker, Anthony Rota, recognized the elderly veteran as a hero of World War II, leading to an enthusiastic standing ovation. It was later revealed that the veteran had been a member of a military unit with ties to the Nazi regime. Trudeau said earlier Wednesday that the mistake "deeply embarrassed Parliament, and Canada," and he was apologizing in front of all Canadians and the Jewish people around the world. Also Read: Canada PM Justin Trudeau calls honouring of Nazi veteran deeply embarrassing to parliament of Canada "It was a horrendous violation of the memory of the millions of people who died in the Holocaust," Trudeau said. AFP reported that Rota stepped down, saying he had "profound regret for my error" and the pain he caused to Jewish communities in Canada and elsewhere. Trudeau's government has been under intense pressure over the affair, which Conservative opposition leader Pierre Poilievre described as the "biggest single diplomatic embarrassment" in Canada's history. At the high-profile event for Zelensky, Rota had hailed Yaroslav Hunka as "a Ukrainian-Canadian war veteran from the Second World War who fought for Ukrainian independence against the Russians" and "a Ukrainian hero and a Canadian hero." Hunka served in the 14th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS, "a Nazi military unit whose crimes against humanity during the Holocaust are well-documented," according to the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center. Also Read: Canada's parliament honours a man who fought for Nazis, Speaker apologises later The Jewish advocacy group called the incident "shocking" and "incredibly disturbing." Russia quickly jumped on the issue, saying Canada now had to "bring to justice" the 98-year-old man. For years, Moscow has attempted to portray the pro-Western Ukrainian government, headed by President Zelensky (who is of Jewish descent), as having neo-Nazi affiliations. Moscow has consistently promoted this narrative through its state-controlled media channels as a means to rationalize its invasion of Ukraine to the Russian population. Russia's Ambassador to Canada, Oleg Stepanov, strongly criticized the "disturbing commemoration" and demanded that Prime Minister Trudeau issue an apology to Moscow for Hunka and his unit's involvement in "numerous war crimes" against the Russian populace, reported AFP. Canada is home to the world's second-largest Ukrainian diaspora, following only Russia in terms of size. Also Read: India-Canada Row: What's at stake for Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau? Trudeau said "I also want to reiterate how deeply sorry Canada is for the situation this put President Zelensky and the Ukrainian delegation," and he signaled that Ottawa had already contacted Kyiv and Zelensky to apologize. It is extremely troubling to think that this egregious error is being politicized by Russia and its supporters to provide false propaganda about what Ukraine is fighting for," AFP reported. (With inputs from AFP) "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 the occasion of Teacher's Day in Taiwan, search engine Google celebrated the day with a doodle to honour the contribution of teachers in one's life. The doodle metaphorically compares teachers with the Sun, who gives all its energy to plants to ensure their growth. This Google Doodle is only visible for users based in Taiwan due to its limited reach. Teacher's Day in Taiwan is celebrated every year on September 28 to mark the birth anniversary of the great Chinese philosopher Confucius. Confucius is also considered the embodiment of the Chinese moral values, family, and education philosophy. About Teacher's Day in Taiwan In Taiwan, Teacher's Day is not an official holiday. But the day is celebrated with students offering gifts to their teachers as a token of appreciation. Teachers often receive gifts from their students. At times, children organise events for teachers and they also teach their teachers. About Confucius Confucius, widely pronounced as Kong Fuzi, was a Chinese philosopher of the Spring and Autumn period who is traditionally considered the paragon of Chinese sages. His teachings are widely popular in East Asian culture and society. He has a wide influence across China and East Asia. His philosophical teachings are called as Confucianism. It emphasizes personal and governmental morality, correctness of social relationships, and kindness. Confucius called himself a transmitter for the values of earlier periods. His followers competed with many other schools during the Hundred Schools of Thought era during the Hundred Schools of Thought era. After the collapse of Qin and the victory of Han over Chu, Confucius' thoughts received official sanction in the new government. However, after the fall of Qin and the victory of Han over Chu, Confucious' thoughts received official sanction in the new government. During the Tang and Song dynasties, Confucianism evolved into a system called as Neo-Confucianism in the West. Confucianism was also an important part of the Chinese social fabric and way of life. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Speaking at the Grand Old Party's (GOP) second debate for its 2024 US presidential election, Indian-American multimillionaire biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy Republican Presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy said that Transgenderism is a mental health issue. Ramaswamy said, Transgenderism is a mental health disorder. We have to acknowledge the truth of that for what it is. It is not compassionate to affirm a kid's confusion. That is not compassion. That is cruelty." Seven prominent Republican Party figures are taking part in the GOP's second debate to select their nominee for the 2024 US presidential election. The two-hour debate started at 9 pm EST on Wednesday (6:30 am IST on Thursday) and is being hosted at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California. Also Read: US Presidential Election 2024: Indian Americans divided over Vivek Ramaswamy, Nikki Haley Ramaswamy further said that more than 50% of kids with gender dysphoria have considered suicide. And yet politicians reject a law that would require schools to inform parents if their kids change their gender identity at school." Ramaswamy stressed that parents have a right to know about their kids and that shouldnt be controversial. Ban genital mutilation and puberty blockers before age 18. Treat gender dysphoria as a mental health disorder. Time to empower parents again." To illustrate his argument, Ramaswamy mentioned encountering two young women who later had regrets about their gender-affirming surgeries. However, it's important to note that post-transition regret is infrequent. According to a comprehensive analysis of 27 studies involving nearly 8,000 teenagers and adults who underwent transgender surgeries, primarily in Europe, the United States, and Canada, an average of 1% expressed regret, AP reported. Haley and Ramaswamy engaged in a split-screen exchange, with Haley once again criticizing the political novice for his lack of experience and what she claimed were perilous concepts. Also Read: US Presidential Elections 2024: Republican contenders struggle to secure in second primary debate against Trump The Republican National Committee (RNC) is organizing these debates, and the party will officially declare its nominees for both the President and Vice President during its national convention scheduled for July the following year. The 2024 US presidential election is set to occur on November 5. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Taking the stage were a lineup of candidates that included Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, former Vice President Mike Pence, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, Senator Tim Scott from South Carolina, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, former Governor of New Jersey Chris Christie, and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum. Also Read: US Presidential Elections 2024: China an existential threat to US, says Indian-American Nikki Haley Russia-Ukraine War At the same time, Ramaswamy expressed criticism directed at Ukraine while responding to a query regarding the ongoing U.S. assistance to the nation. Just because Putin is an evil dictator does not mean Ukraine is good," Ramaswamy said. Vivek Ramaswamy further said, "China, not Russia, is the United States real enemy. He further argued that the hard US line toward Russia is driving Russia further into Chinas arms." Also Read: Russia-China relations reached unprecedented historical level will continue to strengthen, says President Putin Inflation During the second debate of the 2024 campaign, Republican presidential contenders found common ground by attributing the deficit spending and the looming risk of a government shutdown to Donald Trump and the Democrats. This marked an unusual instance of consensus among the candidates. The people in Washington are shutting down the American Dream with their reckless behaviour. They borrowed. They printed. They spent. And now youre paying more for everything," said Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who is polling in second place but 42 points behind Trump. Donald Trump is missing in action. He should be on this stage tonight. He owes it to you to defend his record where they added $7.8 trillion to the debt that set the stage for the inflation that we have," DeSantis said at the event in Simi Valley, California. AP reported that although candidates in the debate portrayed the increase in asylum-seekers as a recent development during President Biden's tenure, it's essential to clarify that this trend actually began several years earlier. As of 2017, the United States had already become the world's most preferred destination for asylum-seekers, a status it has retained since then, as confirmed by the UN refugee agency. There's no denying that migration has substantially risen under President Biden's administration. Border apprehensions reached an all-time high of over 2.2 million along the Mexican border in the 2022 fiscal year, which spans from October to September. This number is more than twice the peak year of 852,000 during President Trump's administration in 2019. Additionally, during President Obama's final full year in office, arrests exceeded 400,000. Also Read: US Green Card backlog: 10.7 lakh Indians await processing with 134-year wait time Talk on Abortion Rights It wasn't until over 100 minutes into the Wednesday night event that the first question about abortion was posed, CNN reported. Approximately five minutes later, the discussion had shifted to another topic. Interestingly, none of the participants on the stage appeared to be bothered by this. Moderator Dana Perino initiated the topic by inquiring whether Governor DeSantis believed that certain Republicans had valid concerns that electoral consequences arising from abortion bans, or the possibility of their enactment, could hinder the eventual GOP nominee. Also Read: Abortion law in Americas like a rude joke on US democracy As reported by CNN, DeSantis, who enacted a six-week abortion ban in April, downplayed these concerns, highlighting his victory in traditionally Democratic-leaning regions of Florida as he secured a second term in 2022. He also took a swipe at Trump for his criticism of the new abortion laws, which Trump referred to as "a terrible thing and a terrible mistake." Christie followed a similar line of argument, emphasizing his two terms as the governor of New Jersey, a state known for its Democratic leanings, to demonstrate that anti-abortion leaders could succeed even in environments where support for abortion rights is prevalent. Over the past year, several states have implemented abortion bans, each with varying points in pregnancy when the bans take effect. Currently, thirteen states have enforced complete abortion bans at any stage of pregnancy. For instance, Georgia prohibits abortion once cardiac activity is detectable, typically around six weeks of gestation. Earlier this year, South Carolina Republicans co-sponsored a bill that aimed to apply the state's homicide laws to individuals undergoing abortions. In simpler terms, the bill, which was already referred to the state House Judiciary Committee, would have equated women seeking abortions with those convicted of murder, potentially subjecting them to the death penalty. The second debate among Republican candidates for the 2024 election is underway at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, California. Notably, former President Donald Trump is absent from the debate stage; instead, he is in Michigan, delivering a speech at a Drake Enterprises-owned auto parts manufacturing plant. Donald Absent from the event Donald Trump's campaign members have downplayed the significance of the Republican primary debates, suggesting that Trump considers himself above such events. Chris LaCivita, a senior adviser to the Trump campaign, told CNN that the debate scheduled for Wednesday, September 27, is a "joke". Also Read: US Presidential Elections 2024: Donald Trump misses GOP debate, his adviser calls event a joke Chris wrote on X, Tonights GOP debate was as boring and inconsequential as the first debate, and nothing that was said will change the dynamics of the primary contest being dominated by President Trump. The RNC should immediately put an end to any further primary debates so we can train our fire on Crooked Joe Biden and quit wasting time and money that could be going to evicting Biden from the White House." (This story has been updated with additional information.) "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 US Senate staffer has said that Chinese hackers who subverted Microsoft's email platform earlier this year managed to steal tens of thousands of emails from the country's State Department accounts, Reuters has reported. While attending a briefing of the State Department officials, he said officials told lawmakers that 60,000 emails were stolen from 10 different State Department accounts. Although the victims weren't named, all but one of them was working on East Asia and the Pacific, he said as quoted by Reuters. The staffer works for Senator Eric Schmitt. Allegations that China hacked the State Department - along with two dozen other, mostly still unidentified organizations - have strained an already tense U.S.-China relationship; Beijing has denied being behind the spying. The hack has also refocused attention on Microsoft's outsize role in providing IT services to the American government. "We need to harden our defenses against these types of cyberattacks and intrusions in the future," Schmitt said in a statement shared by the staffer in an email to Reuters following the briefing. "We need to take a hard look at the federal government's reliance on a single vendor as a potential weak point," he said. The U.S. State Department did not immediately return a message seeking comment. Schmitts office did not immediately respond to a request for an interview with him. Earlier this month, Microsoft in a blogpost had said that the Chinese hack of senior officials at the US State and Commerce departments stemmed from the compromise of a Microsoft engineer's corporate account. The company said the engineer's account had been penetrated by a hacking group it dubs Storm-0558, which is alleged to have stolen hundreds of thousands of emails from top American officials including Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, U.S. Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns and Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia Daniel Kritenbrink. On 5 June, Microsoft's 365 software suite, including Teams and Outlook, were down for more than two hours for over thousands of users and a brief recurrence the following morning. Attacks continued through the week, with Microsoft confirming on June 9 that its Azure cloud computing platform had been affected. Then later on June 8, the computer security news site BleepingComputer.com reported that cloud-based OneDrive file-hosting was down globally for a time. In June, the company had said that the outages that affected certain services of the company through some of the earlier days of this month were the result of cyberattacks, however, it said that it saw no evidence of any customer data being accessed or compromised. (With inputs from Reuters) "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Within Canada, there are individuals or groups supportive of Khalistan who are enticing and easily influencing Sikh youth to immigrate to North America, reported PTI citing sources. According to PTI, they are offering sponsorship for their visas, but their primary intention is to manipulate these individuals into advancing their Khalistan-related goals within the Canadian territory. The sources told PTI that Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, whose killing has led to a row between India and Canada, and other individuals like Moninder Singh Bual, Parminder Pangli, Bhagat Singh Brar have been using the lured Sikh youth to carry out their pro-Khalistan agenda from Canadian soil. Also Read: Nijjar killing row: Canada has seen a lot of organized crime, says Jaishankar Furthermore, they encountered a deficiency of manpower as a result of insufficient backing from the diaspora. Khalistanis In Canada Pro-Khalistan extremists in Canada took advantage of this "demand and supply matrix" by introducing an innovative scheme: they offered sponsorship to susceptible Sikh youth from Punjab, enabling them to secure medium-skilled positions such as plumbers or truck drivers, or engage in religious roles like 'Sewadars,' 'Pathis,' and 'Ragis' in gurdwaras under their control, PTI reported. Also Read: India-Canada feud threatens to hurt trade and investment. Here's what's at stake These pro-Khalistan extremists sponsor visas of such Punjabi youth and visits to Canada in lieu of exploiting them for doing pro-Khalistan activities in Canada like participating in anti-India protests and programmes and conducting radical-religious congregations", sources told PTI. Subsequently, they identify and locate Indian youth and students in Canada who are struggling to financially support themselves and require assistance with various jobs and housing. Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels :rocket: Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights! Click here! Illegal immigrants in Canada and students, who have complete their studies in Canada but have not been able to find suitable jobs, are the most susceptible. Pro-Khalistan extremists offer them shelter and low scale jobs for sustenance using gurdwara resources", they said. These "indebted" youth join "the Khalistan brigade in Canada" willingly or unwillingly. When ISI backed Khalistani group Sikhs For Justice was finding difficult to get support for its anti-India campaign Punjab Independence Referendum', Nijjar and his friends used these foot soldiers to give an impression that their campaign was successful", the sources said. Also Read: India-Canada Row: NIA to seize properties of 19 more Khalistani extremists, says report It is easier for these pro-Khalistan extremists to now get more and more such people as they control over 30 gurdwaras in Surrey, Brampton, Edmonton etc. PTI noted citing sources that Nijjar, Bual and Brar also formed an "unholy nexus" with gangsters in Punjab like Davinder Bambhia gang, Arsh Dalla gang, Lakhbir Landa gang and brought these wanted gangsters to Canada in lieu of using their operatives in Punjab for terror attacks. Some pro-Khalistan political parties in India charged one to two lakh rupees for giving letter to youth, who use it for seeking political asylum in Canada after falsely claiming that they were party cadres and being persecuted in India on religious grounds", they said. These young individuals invariably become part of pro-Khalistan groups once they arrive in Canada. For any legitimate traveler to Canada, it's well-known that obtaining a Canadian visa is an exceptionally challenging and time-consuming process. This human trafficking channel run by pro-Khalistan extremists remains undisrupted under the very nose of Canadian agencies, even though the North American country overtly may be very sensitive to human trafficking", the sources told PTI. Also Read: Punjab police raids premises of Khalistani extremist Lakhbir Singh's associates amid India-Canada row | Watch The dispute between New Delhi and Ottawa began when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, on September 18, made an accusation of the "possible" participation of Indian agents in the killing of Nijjar in June. India vehemently denied these claims, labeling them as "unfounded" and "driven by ulterior motives." In response to Ottawa's expulsion of an Indian official in connection with the case, India reciprocated by expelling a senior Canadian diplomat. (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! BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Azerbaijan is ready to create conditions for a better life for the Armenian residents of Karabakh, unlike the separatist regime created by Armenia, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry said, Trend reports. "We reiterate that Azerbaijan has nothing to do with the decision of the local Armenians of Azerbaijan's Karabakh to move to Armenia or any other country. Azerbaijan is determined to reintegrate Armenian residents as equal citizens, and the Constitution, the national legislation of Azerbaijan and the international obligations we have accepted provide a solid basis for achieving this goal," said the ministry. At the invitation of the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ramin Mammadov, the point person for contacts with ethnic Armenian residents of Karabakh, met with representatives of Armenian residents of Karabakh Sergey Martirosyan and David Melkumyan on September 21, 2023, in Azerbaijans Yevlakh. The discussions held in a constructive and positive atmosphere focused on reintegration of the Armenian population of Karabakh, restoration of infrastructure and the organization of activities on the basis of the Constitution and laws of the Republic of Azerbaijan. In the context of discussions of social and humanitarian issues, the representatives of the Armenian residents of the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan said that there was a particular need for fuel. At the same time, they asked for humanitarian assistance, including food products. As a result of the meeting, their request was accepted positively. In particular, it is planned to provide fuel supply for heating systems of kindergartens and schools, as well as emergency medical and firefighting services, and provide humanitarian support. On September 25, 2023, another meeting between Ramin Mammadov with representatives of Armenian residents of Karabakh was held in the city of Khojaly Agreement was reached on organizing a meeting of the working group led by the Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Shahin Mustafayev on the solution of social, humanitarian, economic and infrastructure issues with relevant representatives dealing with utility, health and other civil services in the area, including the city of Khankendi, in order to determine the directions of further action. The sides also agreed to set up a joint working group for this purpose. It was also suggested that healthcare services in the field hospital to be established near the city of Khankendi or in the direction of Khojaly should be jointly organized by medical staff of Azerbaijani and Armenian origin. It was also proposed to establish a mobile food supply service by Azerbaijani and Armenian service personnel. The sides expressed their readiness to provide necessary medical assistance to persons suffering from chronic diseases or who are in need of special surgery. In addition, the sides emphasized the importance of establishing joint mobile medical teams consisting of medical workers of Azerbaijani and Armenian origin, providing services to lone people in remote villages. The proposal to organize visits of civil society representatives and social activists of Armenian origin living in the Karabakh economic region to Baku or other cities of Azerbaijan was emphasized. It was noted that such initiatives were important in terms of creating a civil society dialogue platform, as well as implementing confidence-building measures. US Ambassador to India on Thursday informed that they have officially processed a million visa applications to Indians this year and ensured to work toward easing the visa backlog further. In Twitter post, US Embassy in India, said, Mission to1M accomplished! We are excited to announce that the U.S. Mission to India has reached and surpassed our goal to process one million visa applications in 2023! We will not stop here and continue our progress in coming months, to give as many Indian applicants the opportunity to travel to the United States. Meanwhile, US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti told news agency ANI, "PM Modi & President Biden had said let's do a better job of moving faster on visas. So, MEA here approved more bodies in places like Hyderabad, more people who can work on visas, we changed our systems, worked harder and smarter and we have processed a million visa applications this year today officially. We just have to continue to prepare for the future." Earlier this week, US Embassy in India informed that US issued a record number of over 90,000 visas to Indian students this summer. The US Mission added that this summer from June -August, one in four student visas worldwide was issued to Indians. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! In a post on X, the US Embassy in India wrote, The US Mission in India is pleased to announce that we issued a record number over 90,000 of student visas this Summer/ in June, July, and August. This summer almost one in four student visas worldwide was issued right here in India! Congratulations and best wishes to all the students who have chosen the United States to make their higher education goals a reality! Thats a wrap! With teamwork and innovation, we ensured that all qualified applicants reached their programs on time." An earlier report by Mint in June had noted that the US had opened the visa appointments for F1 student visas across its consulates in India and the appointments were available from mid-July to mid-August. Meanwhile, a record-breaking 125,000 US student visas were issued to Indians last year, surpassing any other nationality. "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 second debate among Republican candidates for the 2024 election is underway at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, California. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump is absent from the debate stage; instead, he is in Michigan, delivering a speech at an auto parts manufacturing plant owned by Drake Enterprises. Donald Trump's campaign team has minimized the significance of the Republican primary debates, suggesting that Donald Trump considers himself beyond such proceedings. According to Trump campaign senior adviser Chris LaCivita, the debate scheduled for Wednesday, September 27, was a joke". LaCivita added that so far it has amounted to "an interview to be the designated survivor." Also Read: GOP Debate: 'Transgenderism' a mental health issue, says Vivek Ramaswamy. Top Updates Chris is serving as Donald Trump's representative in the spin room, alongside other spokespersons. Following Ron DeSantis' criticism of Donald Trump for being "completely missing in action," other supporters of Donald Trump also criticized the Florida Governor. Taking to X, Chris wrote, Tonights GOP debate was as boring and inconsequential as the first debate, and nothing that was said will change the dynamics of the primary contest being dominated by President Trump. The RNC should immediately put an end to any further primary debates so we can train our fire on Crooked Joe Biden and quit wasting time and money that could be going to evicting Biden from the White House." Vivek Ganapathy Ramaswamy, a candidate for the Republican Party nomination in the 2024 presidential polls, has called for the end of birthright citizenship for children born in the United States with parents who entered illegally into the country. He was speaking during the second Republican debate of the 2024 election cycle at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, California on Thursday. I favour ending birthright citizenship for the kids of illegal immigrants in this country," Ramaswamy said. Now, the left will howl about the Constitution and the 14th Amendment. The difference between me and them is I've actually read the 14th Amendment," he said. What it says is that all persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the laws and jurisdiction thereof are citizens. So nobody believes that the kid of a Mexican diplomat in this country enjoys birthright citizenship," he added. What the netizens are saying? The video of Vivek Ramaswamy making the statement was shared on X (formerly known as Twitter) by Collin Rug, received mixed reactions with 4.2 Million views, 37.5K likes and 4,334 retweets since posted. Vivek, it's crucial to remember that every child deserves a fair shot at a future. Let's work towards comprehensive immigration reform that balances compassion and the rule of law," commented a user. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! This is a terrible view point," one user replied. Makes sense. He clearly mentions kids of illegal immigrants not immigrants who came here legally and then had kids thereafter. As an immigrant myself I think this does solve a huge blank check incentive which would cost us billions in healthcare and other services. Bold statement but a needed step," another user commented. I completely disagree with this policy. It is not the fault of children that their parents entered our country illegally. They have a birth right to citizenship. I would go so far to say that it is God who has given them that right. None can take that away" wrote another user. This would de-incentivize people from entering illegally and take the legal route, as many other immigrants do. Not a bad idea." He might get my vote for that one reason alone," one user said Facts! It needs to end. Hes got my attention now. Im tired of paying for all these illegals to live on my taxes. They qualify for 4K a month in California if they request autism" status. Fill out the paperwork and get one pediatrician to sign it. You wonder why theres such a rise statistically. They have to be Hispanic to get it. It needs to end. Equalize the playing field across the board. We have to pay and raise our kids on our own with no support. Why should my taxes go to your child? Its a scam", another user commented. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Diamonds are a girls best friend, Marilyn Monroe sang in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes . The hardest, shiniest allotrope of carbon has retained this cachet ever since De Beers created a huge demand for diamonds by marketing them as a token of a persons lasting commitment to another. It did this through an assiduous marketing campaign from the 1930s, in which product placement in Hollywood movies played a significant role. But diamonds may not be a girl's best friend for much longer. There is currently a slump in the demand for diamonds, according to a Mint report. This is due to lower demand for them in China and the US, the two biggest markets, as gems and for industrial use. This drop in demand is down to depressed economic conditions in these countries and should be transient. But there is also a longer-term trend at work, one that is likely to undermine demand permanently. It has two components. One is the increasing sophistication of lab-grown diamonds and their superior ESG appeal, and the other is the luxury-goods paradox, in which lower prices destroy demand. Diamonds have traditionally been known for embodying a paradox the lack of correlation between a goods use value and its exchange value. Water sustains life but is cheap, while diamonds have limited use but are expensive. There are two developments on the cards: the status-goods paradox will erode the demand for diamonds as they drop in price (and increase the supply of lab-grown diamonds); and the declining demand for diamonds will dilute their ability to illustrate the use value vs exchange value paradox. Natural diamonds are scarce and require a lot of labour to mine and transport to cutting, polishing and marketing centres. This gives them their value. But the regions where the best diamonds are found also happen to be violence-prone, underdeveloped countries, particularly in Africa. The diamonds themselves trigger conflict hence the terms blood diamonds and conflict diamonds. the Hollywood hit Blood Diamonds, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, helped expose the seamy side of the industry and spark revulsion against the conditions under which diamonds are produced and marketed. DiCaprio also became an investor in Americas largest synthetic diamond manufacturer. Human beings have long been fascinated by the possibility of artificially creating precious metals such as gold. This tradition of alchemy has been extended to diamonds with far more success. Under tremendous heat and pressure, carbon turns into its transparent, crystalline form. Techniques have been refined to such a point that it is hard to tell the difference between a natural and an artificial diamond. While natural diamonds still enjoy a premium, those who detest the violence, corporate greed and carbon footprint associated with them now prefer high-quality synthetic diamonds. The consequent increase in the demand for lab-grown diamonds, further improvements in their manufacturing, and achieving economies of scale in their production could crush the demand for natural diamonds permanently. Luxury goods command a premium because they are scarce. In the case of normal goods, the price is inversely proportional to demand. The lower the price of something the higher the demand, and vice versa. But when it comes to status goods, the equation changes. A Rolex on your wrist signals status. The higher its price, the greater its ability to project the wearers status. Suppose the price of a Rolex watch drops to that of a boAt smartwatch. The Rolex wearer would dump his timepiece as it would have lost its ability to distinguish him from the hoi polloi. If a flood of artificial diamonds removes the scarcity element from the market for diamonds, the stones will drop in value. They will no longer serve as a status symbol and this would destroy their demand significantly. NITI Aayog is getting Indias biggest subsidy schemes evaluated to see if their benefits are actually reaching people, according to an ET report. The most important of these is the free food programme. The political appeal, in election season, of a government managing to show that it was able to arrest or at least reduce leakages cannot be understated. But it would be a pity if the purpose of the evaluation ends up being an execise in managing the pre-election narrative. The evaluation could, under the right circumstances, better inform subsidy policy design and help kickstart long-pending reforms. Theres enough evidence available already such as from a similar evaluation undertaken in 2014-15 that showed significant pilferage. The main findings went on to become a part of the report the Shanta Kumar committee submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015. A key recommendation was that the government gradually stop distributing food grains and instead distribute cash with direct benefit transfers. The government has not yet implemented that recommendation. A new leakage evaluation would truly serve its purpose only if it became the first step in switching from free food grains to cash transfers. For, as NITI Aayog has also pointed out, although India runs one of the largest public food safety nets in the world through the National Food Security Act (NFSA), enacted by the UPA government in 2013, the country still accounts for roughly 30% of global hunger. The gains in food security and nutritional outcomes are not commensurate with the increase in public expenditure the programme has imposed on the budget. (Together with the cooking gas subsidy, it costs the exchequer nearly 4 lakh crore a year.) This is hardly surprising. Nutritional outcomes can only improve with adequate consumption of non-cereals such as pulses, vegetables, milk and so on, which the poor cannot afford to buy at market prices. For that to happen, the food subsidy will have to go beyond providing free cereals. Evidence supporting the need for this big-ticket reform has been piling up for a while now. Switching to cash transfers is the best way forward. The available evidence suggests that leakages from the free food programme are rampant, as Mint reported recently. It shows that non-basmati rice exports in FY23 when India became the world's largest exporter of rice, accounting for 40% of world exports were at prices below the year's MSP. This, the study argues, suggests that rice from the free food programme has been leaking in large quantities into the export market. The food safety net for people living below the poverty line started as a nearly universal public distribution system before it was replaced in 1997 by a targeted public distribution system (TPDS), which ran until 2012. The TPDS sold mainly rice and wheat from fair-price shops at significantly lower than market prices. It suffered from well-known deficiencies such as poor identification of the targeted beneficiaries, inefficient delivery and leakages. In 2000 the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) increased the TPDS focus on the poorest segments of the below-poverty-line (BPL) population. In 2013 the NFSA paved the way to shift from the welfare approach of the TPDS programme to a rights-based approach for social protection. It legally entitled eligible beneficiaries to receive 5 kg of food grains at highly subsidised prices from the modified TPDS. During the pandemic, an additional 5 kg of grains per person per month was provided to more than 800 million beneficiaries of NFSA. This was discontinued after December 2022. The evaluation of leakages conducted in 2014-15 focused on six states. Three of these Bihar, Chhattisgarh and Karnataka had already implemented the NFSA while Assam, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal were still following the TPDS. A primary household survey was conducted between October 2014 and December 2014 in these states. The main findings were that while the PDS was meeting a significant portion of the total demand for food grains from poor people more than 90% BPL and AAY categories in six states used it they did not always receive their full quota because of faulty delivery mechanisms. At times, beneficiaries also paid more than they were supposed to. The gap between the entitled amount and the take-home amount varied across states. In Bihar, 42% of the poorest on average received 1.1 kg to 3kg less than their full entitlement. On average, BPL families received 6 kg and 7 kg less than their quota in Assam and Uttar Pradesh, respectively, and 1.6 kg less in West Bengal. Political connections and caste were found to play a role in accessing the benefits. Chhattisgarh had the lowest exclusion at 2% of all households eligible for benefits, while Assam had the highest at 71%. The evaluation study measured the diversion of food grains by estimating leakages. Leakages were found to be the lowest in Chhattisgarh (6.96%), followed by Bihar (16.28%) and Karnataka (17.34%). The average leakage for the BPL category in Assam, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal was 36.76%, 32.87% and 28.19%, respectively. The study found that, on average, one person needs 8 kg to 13 kg of food grains, including rice and wheat, a month. Even though poor people ended up paying some extra money to buy PDS grains, it was still many times lower than the market price. Despite all its ills, the welfare benefits were found to be significant. The average amount of implicit subsidy through the PDS increased approximately threefold between 200405 and 201112. Implementation of the NFSA in 2013 resulted in a significant increase in the amount of subsidy, mainly for the BPL and AAY categories. Subsidies for the APL category decreased because the allocation for this group was either removed in some states or reduced significantly in others. The amount of per-capita implicit subsidy per month (a sort of savings for the poor as they would have to spend on food grains with it) in the absence of the scheme for a BPL cardholder in Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal was found to be 92, 79, 141, 140, 73 and 66, respectively. The conclusion was that though the PDS had improved over time, there was considerable room for improvement. Poorly performing states lagged considerably behind the best-performing ones. Legally, shifting from food grains to a cash transfer isnt a difficult reform as the NFSA allows for giving cash instead of food grains. Karnataka has, in fact, recently started giving cash instead of food grains after the central government refused to release food grains to the state. The government has already moved several of its welfare schemes to cash, using direct benefit transfers. Once beneficiaries start to spend this cash on non-cereals, the reform will make the food subsidy less distortionary. The governments procurement of cereals will drop, letting farmers respond to growth in the market for non-cereals by cultivating them in larger quantities. The market prices of these tend to be more remunerative than the floor prices at which the government procures cereals. This would increase farmers incomes and raise consumption spending, boosting GDP growth. The reform was not implemented in 2015 because of opposition from representatives of fair-price shops, which feared the closure of the PDS would affect their livelihoods. The fears are unfounded. The bulk of the cash transfers will likely be spent on food grains and non-cereals from these very shops. If anything, the losses to leakages and corruption would be replaced by a growing market for non-cereals. Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley on Wednesday blasted entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy to grab the Centre stage on Wednesday as seven GOP contenders faced each other the second 2024 Republican presidential primary debate. Haley went after him again over his decision to become the first Republican candidate to join Chinese-owned short video app TikTok. Ramaswamy framed the move as a way to help him reach younger voters; Haley called it "infuriating." Here's how the conversation went: The Moderator Stuart Varney asked Vivek, "You joined TikTok after dinner with boxer and influencer Jake Paul. Should the commander in chief be so easily persuaded by an influencer?" Ramaswamy responded to it saying he needs to use platforms like TikTok to reach young voters so that he can win, and he reiterated that as president he would bar younger people from using social media. "So the answer is, I have a radical idea for the Republican Party," Vivek said. "We need to win elections, and part of how we win elections is reaching the next generation of young Americans where they are." Jumping in, Nikki called Viveks position "infuriating." "TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media apps that we could have," she said. Honestly every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber for what you say." "TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media assets that we could have," she told him, adding we can't trust you." Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) K Kavitha on Thursday emphasized that the current Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) alliance cannot be assured of its continuity in the future. As reported by ANI, back on August 2, the leader of BRS and the Chief Minister of Telangana, K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR), explicitly stated that his party was not aligning itself with either the INDIA alliance or the NDA. "There is no guarantee if today's INDIA Alliance will exist tomorrow. There will be state elections and seat-sharing issues for the Parliament election before that. The situation would be different after that," K Kavitha told ANI. She also added that once the results of the parliamentary elections are announced, the circumstances could undergo further changes. Also Read: Have to fight unitedly, Sonia Gandhi calls for unity in INDIA alliance at CWC meeting "Historically, pre-poll alliances have not been very successful in this country. So, we will definitely wait. But BRS is a national party with a national agenda and a universal agenda. It is not like the Congress party with one agenda in Karnataka and another agenda in Telangana," Kavitha added. Kavitha slammed the BJP saying that the party has done nothing for Telangana for the last 10 years so they will get negative results in Telangana just like Karnataka. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! "In the South, people always look at which party is raising the issues of their region the most so the result here will be different. BJP has done nothing for Telangana for the last 10 years so they will get negative results in Telangana just like Karnataka," she said. Earlier, opposition parties, gathering under the umbrella of the INDIA alliance, concluded their third meeting in Maharashtra on August 31 to September 1. During this meeting, they reached a consensus to jointly participate in the forthcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections. It was also announced that they would work on finalizing seat-sharing agreements promptly, emphasizing a collaborative and compromising approach. Also Read: BJP's big praise for K Annamalai as AIADMK breaks alliance in Tamil Nadu Following a two-day gathering of the opposition coalition, known as the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, four primary committees were established, with representation from various political parties. The inaugural joint opposition meeting took place in Patna on June 23, and the subsequent meeting occurred in Bengaluru on July 17-18. The INDIA alliance is a coalition of opposition parties, which includes the Congress Party. These parties have united with the aim of challenging the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Their goal is to hinder the NDA from securing a third consecutive term in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. (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! HP Inc. has partnered with Google to manufacture Chromebooks in India, bolstering the governments efforts to promote IT hardware production in the country. The Chromebookslaptops that run on Googles Chrome operating systemwill be manufactured at the Flex facility near Chennai, where HP has been producing a range of laptops and desktops since August 2020. The production of HP Chromebooks will start on 2 October and will cater to the demand for affordable PCs in India, mainly from the education sector. India is trying to bolster local production of laptops and other IT hardware through a combination of incentives and restrictions on imports. The governments production-linked initiatives (PLIs) offer funds to encourage companies to make in India, while the proposed import management system aims to curb imports. Manufacturing Chromebook laptops in India will allow Indian students to get easy access to affordable PCs. By further expanding our manufacturing operations, we continue to support the Make in India initiative of the government," said Vickram Bedi, senior director of personal systems at HP India. HP is committed to advancing digital equity, and we have been driving many initiatives to enable digital education across India." Chromebooks are leading devices in K-12 education, catering to over 50 million students and teachers worldwide. The partnership will propel a joint vision to support the digital education ecosystem in India and help more students enhance their learning by providing affordable, safe and high-quality computing devices to education authorities, schools and institutions. The local production of Chromebooks with HP marks an important step in our efforts to continue supporting the digital transformation of education in India," said Bani Dhawan, head of education, South Asia, Google. We hope this collaboration will help accelerate the adoption of technology in more schools so that every student and educator have access to the tools and skills to pursue their personal potential." HP is also one of the key participants of the IT hardware PLI scheme where the government will give a share of revenues earned by local production of IT hardware products. HP significantly expanded its manufacturing operations in India when, in December 2021, it started manufacturing a wide range of laptops in the country, including its EliteBooks, ProBooks and G8 series notebooks. It also expanded its portfolio of locally manufactured commercial desktops by adding various models of desktop mini towers, mini desktops, small form factor desktops and a range of all-in-one PCs. These products include both Intel and AMD processor options, and cater to a wide range of customer segments. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Introduction The Fintech Festival 2023, held on September 27-28 at the Royal Paragon Hall in Bangkok, was a showcase of the latest and greatest in financial technology from Thailand and around the world. The event featured over 200 exhibitors, including payment solutions providers, exchanges, and other fintech companies. B2B Payments and Exchanges in the Spotlight One of the most notable trends at the festival was the focus on B2B payments and exchanges. Many of the exhibitors were offering solutions that can help businesses to streamline their payment processes and to access new markets through cryptocurrency trading. This trend is not surprising, given that the B2B payments market is expected to grow to over $200 trillion by 2025. Businesses are increasingly looking for ways to make their payment processes more efficient and cost-effective. Fintech companies are offering innovative solutions that can help businesses to achieve these goals. For example, one exhibitor at the festival was offering a solution that allows businesses to make cross-border payments in real time and at low cost. This solution could be a game-changer for businesses that need to send or receive payments from overseas. Another exhibitor was offering a platform that allows businesses to trade cryptocurrencies securely and easily. This platform could be a valuable tool for businesses that want to invest in cryptocurrencies or to accept them as payment. Conferences and Workshops In addition to the exhibition hall, the Fintech Festival 2023 also featured a number of conferences and workshops. These sessions covered a wide range of topics, including: The future of payments Cryptocurrency regulation Fintech for B2B businesses Blockchain in the financial industry Cybersecurity for fintech companies The conferences and workshops were a great opportunity for attendees to learn from experts in the fintech industry and to network with other professionals. Thailands Fintech Future The Fintech Festival 2023 was a clear indication that Thailand is focused on becoming a leader in the global fintech industry. The event brought together some of the brightest minds in the industry and showcased some of the most innovative fintech solutions available. The Thai government is also supportive of the growth of the fintech industry. The government has launched a number of initiatives to promote the development of fintech companies, including the launch of a fintech sandbox that allows companies to test their products and services in a safe environment. The Thai fintech industry is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. The focus on B2B payments and exchanges is likely to be a key driver of this growth. Conclusion The Fintech Festival 2023 was a successful event that showcased the latest and greatest in financial technology from Thailand and around the world. The event was a great opportunity for attendees to learn from experts in the industry, to network with other professionals, and to see the future of fintech firsthand. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chair, Gary Gensler, continued to criticize industry practices in a public statement, even as the SEC faces legal battles with cryptocurrency firms. If the SEC continues to block Bitcoin ETFs in the US, it is likely that more and more asset managers will look to establish Bitcoin ETFs in other countries. This would make it easier for investors outside of the US to invest in Bitcoin. It is important to note that the SEC has not yet made a final decision on whether or not to approve Bitcoin ETFs. However, Gensler has expressed some skepticism about Bitcoin ETFs in the past. He has said that he is concerned about the volatility of Bitcoin and the potential for fraud in the Bitcoin market. If the SEC does not approve Bitcoin ETFs in the US, it would be a setback for the Bitcoin industry. However, it is likely that the Bitcoin industry would find ways to adapt. For example, asset managers could establish Bitcoin ETFs in other countries, or they could develop new investment products that would give investors exposure to Bitcoin, this would be damaging to the US Economy. Gensler, has made a number of statements about Bitcoin, some of which could be interpreted as being anti-Bitcoin. For example, he has said that Bitcoin is a speculative asset that is not suitable for most investors. He has also said that Bitcoin is used in a lot of illicit activity. Gensler refrained from revealing the SECs plans regarding spot bitcoin Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) following a recent legal setback. In his testimony before the House Financial Services Committee, Gensler maintained his critical stance on how digital asset companies handle customer funds, emphasizing the risks associated with commingling assets. He also mentioned that the SEC has not yet decided on its course of action in response to a judges ruling that required the agency to reconsider its position on spot bitcoin ETFs. Gensler stated, Its still an active consideration of the commission, and added, We have great respect for the courts. In August, a judge in the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals instructed the SEC to reevaluate its stance on bitcoin ETF applications, deeming the agencys rejection in the Grayscale Investments case arbitrary and capricious. Genslers testimony did not provide specifics on the SECs next steps or timeline for action. The congressional hearing also covered topics beyond cryptocurrency, including concerns about a potential government shutdown and whether the SEC is overly focused on issues like climate change. The hearing highlighted partisan divisions, with Democrats offering support for Gensler, while Republicans criticized his actions. There are a number of Democratic politicians who have expressed opposition to Bitcoin. Some of the most notable examples include: Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) Representative Maxine Waters (D-CA) Representative Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) Representative Stephen Lynch (D-MA) There are a number of Republican politicians who have expressed opposition to Bitcoin. Some of the most notable examples include: Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) Senator Pat Toomey (R-PA) Representative Patrick McHenry (R-NC) Representative Tom Emmer (R-MN) These politicians have raised a variety of concerns about Bitcoin, including its environmental impact, its volatility, and its use in illicit activities. They have also argued that Bitcoin is not a safe investment for ordinary Americans. It is important to note that not all Democrats are opposed to Bitcoin. Some Democrats, such as Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), have expressed support for Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. However, the Democrats listed above are among the most prominent Democratic voices who have spoken out against Bitcoin. In addition to the politicians listed above, there are also a number of Democratic-aligned think tanks and advocacy groups that have expressed opposition to Bitcoin. For example, the Center for American Progress and the Consumer Federation of America have both published reports criticizing Bitcoin. Overall, it is clear that there is a significant amount of opposition to Bitcoin within the Democratic Party. Shayne Heffernan BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov has held a phone talk with his Uzbek colleague Bakhtiyor Saidov, the Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan told Trend. Bayramov expressed condolences to the fraternal Uzbek state and people in connection with the explosion near the International Airport in Tashkent, and wished a speedy recovery to those injured in the explosion. The talk also addressed the agenda of bilateral cooperation between the two countries and the current regional situation. Saidov, thanking for the condolences, emphasized that this support is another indication of the relations between the two countries based on friendship, brotherhood, and solidarity. The parties also exchanged opinions n other issues of mutual interest. A major explosion happened at the airport in Tashkent on the night of September 28. The shockwave was felt more than 30 km away. The Ministry of Emergency Situations of Uzbekistan received a call that a fire had occurred due to a strong explosion at one of the warehouses located in the citys Sergeli district. One person died and more than 160 people were injured as a result of the accident. OpenAI, the parent company, made an announcement on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, stating that their Artificial Intelligence chatbot, ChatGPT, now has the capability to independently search the Internet. In a Twitter thread, OpenAI explained that ChatGPT can now browse the web to provide users with up-to-date and credible information, along with direct links to the sources. This enhancement has freed ChatGPT from its previous limitation, which confined its knowledge to data available up to September 2021. This new browsing capability is made possible through integration with Microsofts Bing search engine. Initially, this feature is exclusively available to paying users, but OpenAI has plans to extend it to all users in the near future. This decision comes after considering valuable feedback from a previous, unsuccessful attempt to grant the large language model access to live internet content. OpenAIs CEO, Sam Altman, retweeted the announcement, expressing enthusiasm with the declaration we are so back. Its worth noting that ChatGPT briefly offered web browsing in March but had to disable the feature due to concerns about its use for bypassing website paywalls. OpenAI clarified that this loophole has since been addressed, and the chatbot now adheres to websites robots.txt code, preventing unwanted indexing. Responding to the promotional posts on X, some users questioned what defines authoritative information. ChatGPTs initial release led to extensive discussions on its apparent political biases, which seemed to align with the perspectives commonly found in Silicon Valley, making it challenging to mitigate. Microsoft Bing has been running its own large language model since February, claiming to surpass ChatGPT in terms of power. Microsofts AI has been offering web browsing for several months. In addition to web browsing, OpenAI recently revealed that ChatGPT can now analyze images and engage in audio conversations. The company also introduced a new version of its image generation AI, Dall-E 3, which incorporates some of ChatGPTs language processing and conversation algorithms. Furthermore, OpenAI disclosed that the CIAs Open Source Enterprise division is actively developing a ChatGPT clone capable of delivering information sourced from open source intelligence streams on the live internet. However, unlike OpenAIs model, Langleys bot will be confined to the 18 agencies comprising the U.S. intelligence community. Despite OpenAIs claim of avoiding high-risk government or military contracts, Microsofts recent $13 billion investment in the company has provided the tech giant and its intelligence community clients with access to some of OpenAIs most sought-after AI tools. Shayne Heffernan In 1971, a mysterious hijacker parachuted out of a plane with $200,000 and vanished. This man is suing the FBI to get potential new clues Press Release September 28, 2023 SP ZUBIRI: SENATE HAUL OF 18-APPROVED MEASURES TO IMPROVE SOCIAL CARE FOR PINOYS, BOOST INVESTMENTS 28 September 2023 The Senate buckled down to work on the last week of the regular plenary session of the 19th Congress before the legislature goes on a month long break starting Sept. 30. Senate President Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri on Thursday said the upper chamber approved a total of 18 measures, five of which were included in President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s list of priority bills, during the past three days. "Once signed into law, these measures will help shore up the Marcos administration's initiatives to make the Philippines a prime investment destination," Zubiri said. "These pieces of legislation will blast open new avenues for foreign trade and investments, which are crucial in making us a truly competitive economic player," he said. On Wednesday, the Senate ratified Senate Bill No. 2224 (Ease of Paying Taxes Act) and Senate Bill No. 2233 (Public Private Partnership Act), three days after both measures hurdled the upper chamber's final deliberations. Senate Bill No. 2221, or the proposed Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, was likewise approved on third and final reading after the President certified its passage as urgent. Last Monday, Zubiri said 17 measures got through the third and final reading in the Senate. Among these were Senate Bill No. 2001 (New Philippine Passport Act), Senate Bill No. 1846 (Internet Transactions Act), Senate Bill No. 2224 (Ease of Paying Taxes Act) and Senate Bill No. 2233 (Public Private Partnership Act). A bill of national significance, Senate Bill No. 2028 (An Act Recognizing the Octogenarians, Nonagenarians and Centenarians), also secured the nod of the senators. This will give cash incentives of P10,000, P20,000, and P100,000 for senior citizens reaching 80, 90, and 100 years old, respectively. Twelve other local bills on state colleges and universities in various parts of the country were also passed by the Senate. According to Zubiri, the President is expected to sign into law Senate Bill No. 1846 after the House adopted the Senate version, doing away with the deliberations of the bicameral conference committee. Another priority bill of the administration, Senate Bill No. 2218 (Tatak Pinoy Act), was also passed on second reading. It is set to be approved on third reading upon the resumption of session. "Since the start of the 19th Congress, we, along with our counterparts in the House of Representatives, are proud to have passed high-impact legislation that address both the most urgent needs of our people and the long-term development that we need to pursue for the nation," the Senate President said. The Senate is set to resume plenary sessions on November 6, but Zubiri assured that committee work and hearings will continue throughout the break. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. We strongly condemn and reject the statement of Nikol Pashinyan, Prime Minister of Armenia, dated September 28, 2023, on the alleged ethnic cleansing of Armenian residents from the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan said in a statement, Trend reports. Prime Minister of Armenia not only backtracks from his statement of September 21 that there is no threat to local Armenians from Azerbaijan, but also, with this alarming narrative, aims at disrupting Azerbaijans efforts in humanitarian assistance and reintegration process, and undermines possible prospects of peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Armenias leadership fails to notice how the central Government institutions of Azerbaijan have expeditiously started to implement necessary humanitarian support measures and to address the immediate needs of the Armenian residents of the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan. It is well-known to the Prime Minister of Pashinyan that the current departure of Armenian residents of the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan is their personal and individual decision, and it has nothing to do with forced relocation. If some segments of Armenian residents do not want to live and obey Azerbaijans legislation and rule, we cannot force them to do so. On the contrary, we call on Armenians not to leave their places of residence and be part of multiethnic Azerbaijan. In order to establish peace and security in the region Armenia must stop the obstacles vis-a-vis the reintegration process of local Armenians, and focus on the successful conclusion of the negotiation process on the peace treaty based on territorial integrity and sovereignty of both countries, the statement reads. Jimmy Carter, 98, entered hospice care in February. The former president beat brain cancer in 2015 but faced a series of health scares in 2019, and consequentially underwent surgery to remove pressure on his brain. An anti-vaccination protester who targeted a local politician in a series of obscure, abusive and anonymous texts will return before Longford District Court in December. David Larkin (41) of 33 Ard Na Cassa Lawns, Longford harassed Ballinalee based Senator Micheal Carrigy by text message, voicemail and on social media platform Facebook. Mr Larkin has previously pleaded guilty to the charges of harassing Senator Carrigy on dates between December 20, 2021 and February 14, 2022 contrary to Section 10 of the Non Fatal Offences Against the Person Act. Solicitor Frank Gearty said his client has engaged in a positive and meaningful way with a consultant psychologist and is making progress. Mr Gearty said the defendant's next appointment is next week and he is taking his medication. Mr Gearty said it would be helpful if the court had a full up-to-date psychiatric report and he asked to have legal aid extended to cover such a report. Mr Gearty said it will take some months to have it concluded. The solicitor admitted that it appears to be dragging out over a long time but added that it was heading in the right direction. My client knows he has a serious case to answer. A psychiatric report will assist the court significantly, Mr Gearty said. Sergeant Conor McShane pointed out that the injured party was anxious to have matters concluded. Judge Owens noted the matter was over a year before the court and said she appreciated the injured party experienced stress at its ongoing nature, however she said the case had moved into a different state. Judge Owens said it would be premature to finalise matters in the absence of a psychological assessment. The defendant sent a series of obscure messages to the politician's phone. The messages included texts: You are going to the train station, there will be no mercy, All you scumbag politicians will be going to the train station and Happy sh*t yourself day. More extended messages were: All you scumbag politicians scrambling for the door, now that Boris has shit himself and caved into the people before hes f**ked out of office and publicly hanged for his crimes. Thats what you have to look forward to bro. Youre going down just like the rest of the scum. Dont think youll escape Michael, your time is soon up, enjoy it. Another sent during the pandemic said: The mothers, the fathers, they ain't gonna wait for no international court case. "They're just gonna ram your front door and tear all you politicians apart in your house. That's what you have to look forward to. Could be next week, could be next year but it's coming my friend and no amount of security will save ya then. Happy shit yourself Sunday. Details of a further five Facebook posts were also submitted. The messages contained mentions of going to the train station bucko and another saying No mercy for you Michael. Judge Owens remanded Mr Larkin on continuing bail to appear before Longford District court on December 5 at which time an , 2023. A major business exhibition and networking event will take place in the Longford Arms Hotel on Wednesday, October 11. Local Enterprise Office Longford, as part of Longford County Council, has announced details of the first major business exhibition and networking event to take place in County Longford in recent years. Connecting Our Business Community features a star-studded line up of speakers, panellists, and offers networking opportunities for small business owners as well as the opportunity for them to link in with twelve large Longford businesses who will be exhibiting on the day. Host Fran McNulty of RTEs Prime Time programme will take attendees through a day of engagement and conversation between large and small local businesses, starting with opening speaker, renowned economist, writer, and journalist David McWilliams. Following that, a lively and informative panel discussion will feature prominent business leaders, including Founder of Supermacs Pat McDonagh; Supply Chain Manager with Abbott Diagnostics Sarah Adams; Head Engineer with Kiernan Structural Steel John Kiernan, and Director of Services with Longford County Council Barbara Heslin. Pre-booked appointments for small business owners to meet with exhibiting business leaders will then take place while a general networking session will be held over lunch. Registration to attend is mandatory and Longfords small business owners are urged to register to attend this free event as soon as possible, in order to secure their place. Attendees will also have an opportunity to secure appointments to meet with exhibiting business leaders during the registration process. Local businesses exhibiting on the day include: Abbott Diagnostics; Avery Dennison; Center Parcs Longford Forest; C&D Foods; Framespace; Glennon Brothers Timber Ltd; Kiernan Milling; Kiernan Structural Steel Ltd; Longford County Council; Mulleadys; Panelto and Technimark. Coordinated by Local Enterprise Office Longford and funded by Enterprise Ireland, the event will run from 12 noon until 2.30pm. Welcoming the gathering, Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Colm Murray said, I understand that this is the first major business event in County Longford since the pandemic and Im delighted to see things like this taking place again. "Its a fantastic opportunity to recognise the dedicated and motivated business people that have helped to keep Longford thriving over these challenging last few years. I look forward to it showcasing the range and breadth of businesses operating in Longford. Chief Executive Paddy Mahon added, This is a great opportunity for potential investors to see that Longford has a vibrant economy with plenty of business potential to offer and excellent business support in the form of our Local Enterprise Office team. Michael Nevin, Head of Enterprise in Longford County Council said, This event provides a valuable opportunity for our business leaders, big and small, to meet and exchange information about the products and services produced and sold here in Longford. "It will help create relationships between our larger employers and smaller companies, building awareness around opportunities for sub-supply and giving smaller businesses the opportunity to pitch directly to potential business partners. Not only that, importantly, it may help inform businesses on how they can improve their environmental sustainability by sourcing services closer to home instead of from outside of the region. Don't miss this opportunity to network and strengthen your business relationships, and to establish connections with sustainable local support services and supply chains within the Longford business community. Secure your spot at 'Connecting Our Business Community,' by logging on to Localenterprise.ie/Longford and finding the event under the Upcoming Events section. And for further information, check out Local Enterprise Office Longford and Longford County Council on social media. This year sees the return of the Google - Led initiative to support the upskill of Irish small and medium sized enterprises(SMEs). Google, Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices have launched the 2023 competition 'Youre The Business'. This initiative will reward businesses across Ireland that have demonstrated a commitment to digital at different stages of their journey, from those who have launched a website through to those who are just starting to export. SMEs will be invited to submit a video no longer than two minutes in duration detailing what their business means to them as well as an example of how they have used digital to enhance their business. Entries are open now until October 31st 2023. The successful SMEs will be selected by a panel of qualified judges , they will receive a digital support package from Google which includes a 1,000 Google ads package as well as expert mentorship across a range of technical areas that will help them to develop their business. An additional prize of a video creation kit will also be awarded to one SME that has demonstrated great efforts in promoting their business online. Entries are open now with further information on the Youre the Business competition available at: g.co/yourethebusiness BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan is well aware the departure of Armenian residents living in the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan is their personal decision and has nothing in common with forced relocation, Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry said, Trend reports. The Azerbaijani ministry made the remark in response to accusations made by Pashinyan at the Armenian government meeting on September 28. "If some Armenian residents of Karabakh does not wish to live and abide by the laws of Azerbaijan, we cannot force them to do so. On the contrary, we call on the Armenian residents not to leave their places of residence and to become part of Azerbaijan's multi-ethnic society," the ministry noted. "To establish peace and security in the region, Armenia must remove the barriers hindering the reintegration process of Armenian residents and focus on successfully concluding the negotiation process for a peaceful agreement based on the territorial integrity and sovereignty of both countries," added the ministry. In order to ensure the provisions of the Trilateral Statement [signed by Azerbaijani, Armenian and Russian leaders following the 2020 second Karabakh war], to stop large-scale provocations in the Karabakh economic region, to disarm and withdraw formations of the Armenian armed forces from the territories of Azerbaijan, to neutralize their military infrastructure, to ensure the safety of the peaceful population returning to the territories liberated from occupation, civil servants involved in construction and reconstruction work, and Azerbaijan's military personnel, as well as to restore the constitutional order of the Republic of Azerbaijan, anti-terrorist measures have been conducted in the region. Within the framework of the activities, positions of Armenian armed forces formations, their long-term firing points, as well as military means and military facilities, were disrupted using high-precision weapons in the front line and in depth. Civilians and civilian infrastructure were not targets, only legitimate military targets were disabled. Taking into account the appeal of the representatives of the Armenian residents of Karabakh, received through the Russian peacekeeping contingent [temporarily stationed in Azerbaijan under the trilateral statement], an agreement was reached on the suspension of anti-terrorist activities of local nature on September 20, 2023, at 13:00 (GMT+4) under the following conditions: the Armenian armed forces formations and Armenian illegal armed formations located in Azerbaijan's Karabakh region shall lay down their weapons, leave their combat positions and military posts, and fully disarm. The units of the armed forces of Armenia shall leave the territory of Azerbaijan, and the Armenian illegal armed formations shall be disbanded. Ramin Mammadov, responsible for contacts with the Armenian residents of Karabakh, held a regular meeting with representatives of the Armenian residents of Karabakh in the town of Khojaly on September 25, 2023. At the meeting, which took place in a constructive atmosphere, satisfaction was expressed with the actions taken to resolve the issues discussed on September 21 in Yevlakh, in particular the short-term delivery of humanitarian aid, fuel, and the restoration of electricity supply. Local News By Chris Boyle Published: September 28 2023 Investment From SUNY Transformation Fund Enacted in This Years Budget to Strengthen Transfer Opportunities Between Campuses and Offers Early Advisement to Help Students Achieve their Goals. Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the expansion of transfer pathways at 19 campuses across the State University of New York that will help more community college students continue their higher education and complete their bachelors degree. As a result of New York State investment through the SUNY Transformation Fund, which was enacted in this years budget, SUNY will strengthen transfer opportunities between campuses and offer more students early advisement. "Our unprecedented budget investments in SUNY are helping transform the lives of students and build a bright future for themselves and for New York, Governor Hochul said. "We're working hard to remove barrier for students and ensuring they have the resources they need to earn degrees and enter the workforce ready and prepared for their chosen careers. Businesses in New York can rest assured when they hire these graduates, theyll be arming their staff with the best of the best." Nationally, 80 percent of first-year community college students plan to further their education by obtaining a bachelors degree, however, only 17 percent of those students receive one within six years, according to the Community College Research Center. The investment from the Transformation Fund will help SUNY campuses partner further to expand transfer opportunities for more SUNY students. SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr. said, SUNY is building on its longstanding commitment to transfer pathways, and through the SUNY Transformation Fund, we are ensuring that more community college students receive the support they need to continue through their education journey. Greater advisement is critical to this end, and our SUNY campuses will be partnering more closely to expand support and streamline their transfer process so that more students succeed. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for her historic investments in SUNY and commitment to public higher education so that more New Yorkers get their degree. Examples of programs supported through the SUNY Transformation Fund investment described in the fact sheet found HERE include: SUNY Oneonta will partner with its sister community colleges to provide early personalized advisement to future transfer students on the campuses of Broome, Dutchess, Hudson Valley, Mohawk Valley, and Schenectady; SUNY New Paltz will build in programming and communication support, including the hiring of an additional advisor to assist students with the transition from their community college to New Paltz; Farmingdale State College also received a grant to work with Nassau and Suffolk Community Colleges to strengthen transfer opportunities; Empire State University will use its funding to assist in the creation of additional multiple award nursing programs with community colleges leading to a bachelor of science degree with a major in nursing. SUNY Empire currently has a multiple award nursing program with Nassau Community College that has served several hundred students since its inception in 2018; SUNY Brockport will use its funding to add a Coordinator of Transfer Programs, who will work to improve and streamline the transfer advisement and credit evaluation process and enhance transfer student-focused orientation for all transfer students, especially students from Monroe Community College, Finger Lakes Community College, and Genesee Community College; and, University at Albany will establish dual-admission agreements with key community college partners starting with Hudson Valley Community College, UAlbanys largest transfer partner, with plans to expand to others with strong alignment with emerging academic programs at UAlbany. Other campuses receiving funding to support transfer pathways include Brockport, Broome, University at Buffalo, Buffalo State, SUNYs statutory campus at Cornell, Corning, ESF, Erie, Fredonia, Herkimer, Jefferson, Plattsburgh, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, and Westchester. In addition to the campus specific programs, SUNY is also continuing SUNY Transfer Match an initiative launched last year to provide automatic admission into SUNY baccalaureate degree programs to students who complete their degrees at a SUNY community college and launched a new Transfer Task Force to strengthen transfer policies, increase transparency, and leverage technology to support students in achieving their degree goals. State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky said, The 2023-24 budget included a $75 million appropriation for a Transformation Fund to improve student success and innovation. I am delighted that these funds will be used to improve the pathway between community colleges and the four year institutions and allow those who pursue a bachelors degree a better opportunity to do so. Assemblymember Patricia Fahy said, "New York students' paths towards achieving their dream of attaining a degree at a college or university is often a journey rather than a straight line. By expanding transfer enrollment options and facilitating more flexibility for students within the SUNY Community College system, we're ensuring that more students will succeed and ultimately, complete their education. I commend Chancellor King and Governor Hochul for implementing these changes, and for partnering with me to secure $75 million for the SUNY Transformation Fund to help ensure all students in New York have the tools necessary to succeed, including the ability to transfer seamlessly within the SUNY system." Aspen Institute Vice President and Executive Director of the Aspen College of Excellence Program Josh Wyner said, I am encouraged to see that the SUNY system is choosing to fund 19 partnerships to solve one of the biggest challenges facing higher education: the large number of students who enter community college aiming to transfer and earn a bachelors degree, but never do so. Across New York, thousands of students stand to benefit, earning bachelors degrees that will enable them to achieve their career goals. And communities stand to benefit too, if these partnerships result in more diverse students transferring and earning bachelors degrees in teaching, nursing, information technology, and other fields essential to the future of the entire state. Chancellor King was at SUNY Oneonta today to speak about the expanded program. SUNY Oneonta President Alberto Cardelle said, The notion of seamless transfer becomes a true reality when students are provided with consistent, individualized guidance while planning for and throughout the transfer process. Helping achieve that reality is our goal for SUNY Oneontas new transfer assistance program. Increased on-the-ground collaboration and communication with the partner institutions faculty and staff will allow us to not only provide quality in-person advisement to students but also to plan ahead for any necessary changes or enhancements to articulation agreements or transfer credit pathways. University at Albany President Havidan Rodriguez said, Community college transfer students are important members of UAlbanys student body, and we owe it to them to make their transition to our campus as effortless as possible. These dual-admission agreements will help keep students focus where it should be on their coursework - and will ensure UAlbany continues to benefit from the rich academic and life experiences that transfer students carry with them. SUNY Brockport President Heidi Macpherson said, The SUNY Transformation Fund provides SUNY Brockport with an opportunity to become an even more transfer friendly university. We will utilize these funds to provide a smooth transition for transfer students from the point of inquiry, through their first six weeks at Brockport, and on to graduation. We are incredibly grateful to Governor Hochul for her continuing support of SUNY, SUNY Brockport, and our students. Empire State University President Lisa Vollendorf said, "This funding will play a pivotal role in enhancing the educational experience for students looking to advance their nursing careers. Empire State University's mission is and has always been to build on our students experiences to promote their growth and drive upward mobility and economic development in New York State. These transformational funds will help us do that." Farmingdale State College President John Nader said, The SUNY Transformation fund equips campuses like Farmingdale State College with greater tools to improve student success, foster innovation, and help meet the state's future workforce needs. I am incredibly grateful to the Governor for her unwavering commitment to higher education as an engine of social mobility, which provides opportunities like this that help us better serve our students and ensure their academic success. SUNY New Paltz President Darrell Wheeler said, Community college transfer students are integral and valued members of the SUNY New Paltz community, and we welcome the opportunity to streamline and enhance their academic experiences at the University. The SUNY Transformation Fund will allow us to focus not only on degree completion but ultimately build upon their collective success through their future contributions to the economic growth of New York State. Two North Carolina Men Indicted after 19 Pitbull Puppies, a Toddler, and Two Loaded Firearms Found in their Vehicle Crime By Chris Boyle Published: September 28 2023 Russell Brown and Jamar Belle Allegedly Crammed the Newborn Puppies in Two Containers Causing Them to be Covered in Feces and Urine. Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney today announced that Russell Brown, 67, and Jamar Belle, 28, of North Carolina, were indicted for unlawfully confining 19 Pitbull puppies within a vehicle without access to food, water, or clean air, and causing them to become covered in urine and feces. The defendants vehicle also contained a two-year-old child sitting near two loaded guns. The alleged actions of these defendants represent a despicable level of disregard for the well-being of not one, but two of our most vulnerable populations: animals and children, said District Attorney Tierney. While the victims in this case cannot advocate for themselves, we will. To those who think they can get away with such abuses, take note. The abuse and neglect of animals and children will not be tolerated in Suffolk County. According to the investigation, on September 1, 2023, at approximately 7:10 p.m., Suffolk County Police officers observed Brown and Belle inside a 2022 Jeep Compass parked in a lot on Merritt Avenue in Wyandanch. Inside the Jeep, police discovered a total of 19 Pitbull puppies confined in two containers. Ten of the puppies were placed in a rusted crate in the trunk of the Jeep, and nine were placed in a plastic bin on the back seat. The officers inspected the puppies and saw that they were covered in urine and feces, and noted there was a strong odor of excrement emanating from the vehicle. The puppies were approximately five to six weeks old, and their mother was not present to nurse them. The puppies were transported for veterinary treatment and evaluation. All 19 puppies are available for adoption. Officers also discovered a two-year-old child in the backseat of the vehicle next to the puppies. When they searched inside the vehicle further, police found two loaded firearms in the back seat near where the two-year-old child had been seated. Child Protective Services was contacted to evaluate and place the two-year-old child in protective care. Brown was indicted for: Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree, Class C violent felonies; Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Class E felonies; Nineteen Counts of Neglect of an Impounded Animal, Unclassified misdemeanors; Ten Counts of Carrying an Animal in a Cruel Manner, Unclassified misdemeanors; One Count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, a Class A misdemeanor; and One Count of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree, a Class A misdemeanor. Belle was indicted for: Two Counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree, Class C violent felonies; Two Counts of Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Class E felonies; Nineteen Counts of Neglect of an Impounded Animal, Unclassified misdemeanors; Ten Counts of Carrying an Animal in a Cruel Manner, Unclassified misdemeanors; and One Count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, a Class A misdemeanor. On September 14, 2023, at Browns arraignment on the indictment, Supreme Court Justice, the Honorable Timothy P. Mazzei, ordered that Brown be held on $50,000 cash, $100,000 bond, or $500,000 partially secured bond during the pendency of the case. Brown is due back in court on October 12, 2023, and is being represented by the Suffolk County Legal Aid Society. On September 25, 2023, at Belles arraignment on the indictment, Judge Mazzei ordered that Belle be held on $15,000 cash, $40,000 bond, or $70,000 partially secured bond during the pendency of the case. Belle is due back in court on October 19, 2023, and is being represented by John Loturco, Esq. The Fund for Animal Cruelty Treatment of Suffolk, Inc. (FACTS) has partnered with Suffolk County law enforcement to provide much-needed assistance for victims of animal cruelty. FACTS has committed to providing financial assistance for the puppies in this case. To find out how they are helping these animals, and how you can help too, visit FactsSaves.org. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Annemarie DiBlasio and John Sciandra of the Biological, Environmental, and Animal Safety Team (BEAST), with investigative assistance from Detective Obed Jean-Pierre of the Suffolk County Police Departments First Squad. The "Trade Bridge" event 134th Canton Fair Global Promotion USA Special Session, organized by Bridgefield, brought together industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders in a dynamic exchange of ideas aimed at fortifying global trade relations. The 134th Canton Fair, scheduled to open on October 15th, 2023, is poised to be a pivotal moment in the realm of international trade. Held on September 27, 2023, at Pine Hollow Club in East Norwich, New York, the event drew an illustrious gathering of participants. Attendees included representatives from government officials, renowned corporations, and innovative entrepreneurs, all converging to explore the opportunities and challenges of U.S.-China commerce. The event commenced with an engaging interactive session, fostering connections and sharing of insights among the participants. The program continued with a series of enlightening speeches from distinguished speakers who provided valuable perspectives on various aspects of global trade. Counselor Yao, representing the Economic and Commercial Office of the Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in New York, highlighted that economic and trade relations are a cornerstone of the China-U.S. relationship and called for increased dialogue and practical cooperation to steer the relationship in the right direction. He reinforced the importance of the Canton Fair, which serves as a vital platform for international trade cooperation, in promoting international trade and cooperation. Chong Li, President of the Science & Technology Economic Committee of China-US Chamber of Commerce, a Professor at Columbia University, and the Founder of Oort Data Cloud, provided a deep dive into the importance of big data and AI products for future global economic growth. Large-scale AI models are rapidly finding applications across various industries. Li and his team have been actively involved in research and implementation in this area, with the recent development of an AI customer service solution, which greatly enhances the customer service experience by providing 24/7 service. AI operations cost less and have higher efficiency than traditional call centers. Jerry Lewin, Vice President of Hyatt Regency Hotels, shared his vast experience in the hospitality industry, highlighting the industry's resilience and potential for growth. Ying Shen, Managing Director at JP Morgan and an expert in finance, highlighted the crucial role financial institutions play in international trade as they provide essential support for the smooth execution of international trade by offering financing, risk management, and international payment solutions. He also underlined that Canton Fair, as the world's largest foreign trade platform, has made immense contributions to global trade and economic development, serving as a means of cultural, technological, and intellectual exchange. The program culminated in a networking dinner, offering attendees the opportunity to forge lasting connections and engage in informal discussions, further enhancing the spirit of collaboration. The 'Trade Bridge' event stands as a resounding testament to the significance of collaboration and knowledge sharing within the global trade arena. It served as a vital platform for nurturing international relationships, propelling economic prosperity, and fortifying the bilateral bonds between the United States and China. This event's triumph mirrors the unwavering dedication of all participants in bridging divides and fashioning opportunities in the realm of international trade. As we anticipate the 134th Canton Fair, poised to usher in a new era of global commerce on October 15th, 2023, we remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering a world of interconnected trade and shared prosperity. Crime By Chris Boyle Published: September 28 2023 Jeramya Sloan, also known as JuJu, was sentenced for illegally selling eight firearms including several privately made firearms, or ghost guns in Suffolk County. On Monday, September 25, in federal court in Central Islip, Jeramya Sloan, also known as JuJu, was sentenced by United States District Judge Joanna Seybert to 46 months imprisonment for illegally selling eight firearms including several privately made firearms, or ghost guns in Suffolk County. Sloan pleaded guilty to firearms trafficking in June 2022. Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, announced the sentence. This case reflects the efforts of this Office, together with our law enforcement partners, to reduce gun violence in our district. We will arrest and prosecute those who traffic firearms and contribute to the proliferation of untraceable ghost guns, which threaten public safety, stated United States Attorney Peace. The recovery of each and every gun sold by Sloan potentially prevented death or serious injury. Mr. Peace also thanked the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, New York Division (ATF), the Suffolk County Police Department, and the United States Postal Inspection Service, for their work in this case. According to court filings and statements made during court proceedings, from approximately December 2019 through January 2021, Sloan sold eight firearms to someone he believed was a member of the Bloods street gang, at locations throughout Suffolk County. Specifically, Sloan sold: (1) a .45 caliber Ruger P97DC semi-automatic pistol; (2) a .22 caliber High Standard MFG Corp revolver; (3) a .22 caliber Smith & Wesson M&P semi-automatic pistol; (4) a .40 caliber Smith & Wesson SW40VE semi-automatic pistol, with an obliterated serial number; (5) a 9-millimeter Polymer80 type semi-automatic pistol, bearing no make, model or serial number (also known as a ghost gun); (6) a 9-millimeter FMK G2 semi-automatic pistol; (7) a .45 caliber Polymer80 type semi-automatic pistol ghost gun, with a loaded magazine; and (8) a 9-millimeter Polymer80 type semi-automatic pistol ghost gun, along with a MasterPiece Arms MAC 10 9-millimeter high-capacity magazine. The .45 caliber Ruger was traced to another purchaser, who originally bought the firearm in approximately March 2005 from a store in Columbia, South Carolina. The .22 caliber Smith & Wesson was traced to another purchaser, who originally bought the firearm in approximately May 2012 from a store in Oneonta, New York. The other firearms could not be traced. At the time of Sloans arrest on November 9, 2021, ammunition was recovered from his residence in Selden. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. As part of the program, U.S. Attorneys Offices work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and their local communities to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime. The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of New York is currently partnering with the SCPD, the New York City Police Department (NYPD), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), ATF, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (DHS/HSI), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in its PSN mission. 27-Sep-23 The latest incarnation of 500 North LaSalle Street will be a steakhouse, with the assistance of a property tax incentive approved by the Chicago City Council. After an $8.7 million renovation to the interior and exterior, the three-story, 16,500 square foot building at LaSalle & Illinois will be a 220-seat Hawksmoor steakhouse, expected to open during the first half of 2024. Hawksmoor originated in London in 2006, serving steaks, seafood, and cocktails, and opened its first location in the United States in New York in 2021. Chicago will be its second U.S. location. Occupants of the 136-year-old building, an official City of Chicago landmark since 2001, have included three restaurants Ginos East from 2013 to 2020, LaSalle Power Co, which closed in 2012, and Michael Jordans Restaurant from 1993 to 1999. The building started as the LaSalle Street Cable Car Powerhouse. Built in 1887 by North Chicago Street Railroad Company, it housed engines that moved two miles of cable through channels laid in the streets on Chicagos Near North Side and in the Loop. Those cables, in turn, pulled thousands of cable cars along 82 miles of track. The Cook County Class L property tax incentive, approved by the City Council on September 13, is intended to encourage the preservation and rehabilitation of city landmarks. The incentive will reduce property taxes on the building by $2.1 million over the next 12 years. Previous story: LaSalle Street landmark sold BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Azerbaijan is not aiming at limiting any opportunities for the Armenian population of Karabakh, Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan for Special Assignments Elchin Amirbayov told BBC, Trend reports. "There is no intention from our side to limit the opportunities for the local population to enjoy their language, religion or culture, as it is the case for the rest of the Azerbaijani population. The only red line that we would never allow to be trespassed is that they would put in question the territorial integrity of our country. And from we have heard from them - that is not the case," he said. Amirbayov noted that there is no reason for Azerbaijan and Armenia to remain hostile towards each other. He added: "If we do not have any reason to remain hostile towards each other, both the leaders have announced that they recognize each others territory, if they also have announced that we are neighbors and confined by geography, there is no other choice. Why would not normal people overstep this hostile perception?" Meanwhile, in order to ensure the provisions of the Trilateral Statement, suppression of large-scale provocations in Azerbaijan's Karabakh economic region, disarmament, and withdrawal of Armenian armed forces formations from the territories of Azerbaijan, localized anti-terrorist activities were carried out in the region. Taking into account the appeal of the representatives of the Armenian population of Karabakh through the Russian peacekeeping contingent, an agreement was reached on September 20, 2023, at 13:00 (GMT+4) to cease anti-terrorist activities. Later, at the invitation of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ramin Mammadov, responsible for contacts with the Armenian residents of Karabakh, met with representatives of the Armenian residents of Karabakh on September 21, 2023, in Yevlakh. In the context of discussing social and humanitarian issues, the representatives of the Armenian residents of Azerbaijan's Karabakh region informed that there is a special need for fuel. At the same time, they asked for humanitarian assistance in the form of foodstuffs. As a result of the meeting, their request was taken seriously. Until now, Azerbaijan has already supplied fuel for the heating systems of kindergartens and schools, as well as the emergency medical service and fire department, and provided humanitarian support for Karabakh residents. Vast Resources PLC - London-based mining company with projects in Romania and Zimbabwe - Says that a protest at its Baita Plai polymetallic mine in Romania has come to an end, and operations are now continuing as normal at the site. Follows an announcement on September 22 that some Romanian press outlets had reported strike action by mine workers at Baita Plai. At the time, Vast Resources said: "The strike action, which was undertaken illegally, was reported from the mine and coordinated by a small number of individuals...The majority of the workforce remain supportive of the company and continue to perform their duties on site without impediment; as such the impact on operations at Baita Plai is expected to be minimal." The strike was driven by a delayed payment of a concentrate shipment made on September 10, which resulted in the scheduled salary payment, which had been agreed for September 20, not being made. Vast Resources added that it has received confirmation that payment has been made for this shipment, and it will make the outstanding payment due upon receiving cleared funds. Current stock price: 0.30 pence, up 64% on Thursday in London 12-month change: down 26% By Holly Beveridge, Alliance News reporter Comments and questions to newsroom@alliancenews.com Copyright 2023 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved. President Macron had last month refused to pull the ambassador out following demands from coup leaders People demonstrate in Niger's capital Niamey in August to show their support for the coup plotters. A young man holds a sign reading "A bas la France" (Down with France) People demonstrate in Niger's capital Niamey in August to show their support for the coup plotters. A young man holds a sign reading "A bas la France" (Down with France) Photo credit: dpa/picture alliance via Getty I People demonstrate in Niger's capital Niamey in August to show their support for the coup plotters. A young man holds a sign reading "A bas la France" (Down with France) Photo credit: dpa/picture alliance via Getty I Frances ambassador to Niger left the country, three days after President Emmanuel Macron said the envoy would be pulled out of the West African nation and French troops withdrawn. Ambassador Sylvain Itte left the capital, Niamey, on a plane heading to Paris via Chad, according to two French government officials who asked not to be identified because theyre not authorised to comment. The ambassador left Niger along with six colleagues at about 4am on Wednesday, Agence France-Presse reported. Tensions between Nigers military leaders and its former colonial power have deteriorated since the junta ousted President Mohamed Bazoum in a July 26 coup and severed military ties with France. Macron initially rejected an August 28 deadline for Itte to depart the country. The junta ordered the ambassador to leave for what it described as French actions contrary to Nigers interests. The coup leaders on Monday requested a timeline for the withdrawal of the about 1,500 French troops that are stationed in Niger. Macron earlier said the withdrawal would be completed by the end of 2023. Macron held talks with Nigerien Foreign Minister Hassoumi Massaoudou on Wednesday in which he reiterated Frances support for Bazoum and its desire for a return to constitutional order in the country, according to a statement from the Elysee. 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Apple holds events at certain intervals in the year at which it announces new products. The company tends to hold a March or April spring event, the WWDC keynote in June, an event to celebrate the new iPhone launch in September, and a late fall event in October at which it has been known to release new iPads and Macs. The company has even held an event as late as November 10 (in 2020 when it unveiled the first batch of M1 Macs). Apple introduced the new iPhone 15 and Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 at an event on September 12. Has the company finished releasing new products for 2023? No! There is going to be another Apple event in 2023 at which it will introduce more new products we expect to see new Macs and iPads. The event will start at 5 p.m. P.T. and youll be able to watch it right here: When is Apples October event 2023? Monday 30 October at 5 p.m. P.T. (31 October for most of the world, see all the start times in various time zones below) Apple is set to hold an event on 30 October. Dubbed Scary Fast, probably due to its proximity to Halloween (in fact if you arent in North or South America this event will start after midnight on 31 October.) Wed all but given up hope for a second fall event, but in his October 22, 2023 weekend newsletter Bloombergs Michael Gurman indicated that Apple could hold an event on 30 or 31 October. And then on October 24 the company issued invites to the press. The event is being held just a few days before the company announces its quarter four financial results on November 2. Over the years Apple has held a second fall event in October or November, where it has launched new Macs, iPads, and AirPods. For example, at the 2021 Unleashed event we got the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro and the third-gen AirPods, while the previous year brought the M1 versions of the 13-inch MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, and Mac mini on Tuesday, November 10. However, as you can see from the list of October event dates below, Apple does not always hold an October event. Over the past 12 years, Apple has held eight October events, so its not unprecedented to skip it. 2023: Monday, October 30 2022: No event 2021: Monday, October 18 2020: Tuesday, October 13 and Tuesday, November 10 2019: No event 2018: Tuesday, October 30 2017: No event 2016: Thursday, October 27 2015: No event 2014: Thursday, October 16 2013: Tuesday, October 22 2012: Tuesday, October 23 2011: Tuesday, October 4 What time will Apples event start? Apples Scary Fast October event, will start at a different time to the usual 10 a.m. PT. Instead, Apple will kick off the event at 5 p.m. PT. Heres what that translates to around the world. U.S.: 5 p.m. (PDT), 6 p.m. (MDT), 7 p.m. (CDT), 8 p.m. (EDT) U.K.: Next day at 12 a.m. (GMT) Europe: Next day at 1 a.m. (CET) Canada: 5 p.m. (PDT), 6 p.m. (MDT), 7 p.m. (CDT), 8 p.m. (EDT), 9 p.m. (ADT) India: Next day at 5.30 a.m. Singapore and China: Next day at 8 a.m. Australia: Next day at 8 a.m. (AWST), 10.30 a.m. (ACDT), 11 a.m. (AEDT), 10 a.m (AEST) New Zealand: Next day at 1 p.m. (NZDT) Apples special events usually last between one and two hours. How to watch the Apple event If you want to watch the October event live, Apple will stream the keynote on its website and YouTube channel. We have embedded the video above so you can also watch it here. What will Apple launch at the October event? Whether theres an event or not, it is possible that Apple could unveil new Macs and iPads. In fact, there are a number of reports predicting that it will do so before the end of the year. M3 iMac The iMac is still running an M1 chip while the rest of the lineup is now on the second generation of Apples Mac chips, so its well overdue an update. The rumors suggest that the iMac will move straight to the M3 chip, we could even see an iMac Pro with M3 Pro chip. More here: M3 iMac rumors MacBook Pro Apple may also be set to update the 13-inch MacBook Pro with M3 at the same time as the iMac. There are also rumors suggesting we could see the M3 Pro and M3 Max versions of the MacBook Pro launch. More here: New MacBook Pro rumors Mac mini with M3 The Mac mini may also get an update to M3 and M3 Pro. Or this may wait until 2024. More here: M3 Mac mini rumors MacBook Air with M3 In the summer Bloombergs Mark Gurman suggested that the MacBook Air could get an M3 update this year. This seemed unlikely given the fact that the 15-inch model was only introduced in June. It now looks like Apple may update both the 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air in the spring of 2024, but it is possible we will see something at the October 30 event. Read: M3 MacBook Air rumors. iPad mini The iPad mini was last updated in 2021. A seventh-generation model is said to be coming in 2023 with a better chip and screen improvements. More here: iPad mini 7 rumors Thats not the only new iPad coming though. Read: Apple has multiple new iPads in the works. iPad Air A new iPad Air could also be coming before the end of the year, with an update to the M2 from the M1. More here: iPad Air, M2 rumors iPad 11th gen The standard iPad may also get a chip upgrade. Bigger iPad Pro There could also be a new iPad Pro, with a 14-inch iPad Pro rumored, however, this isnt expected until 2024. AirPods Lite AirPods Lite have been rumored for some time. Said to cost $99 they could be huge this Christmas, if they ever emerge. The AirPods Max also need an update. Read: New AirPods rumors. What did Apple launch at its last October event? Apple didnt hold an October event in 2022. On October 18, 2021, Apple launched redesigned models of the high-end MacBook Pro, with a 14-inch and 16-inch models making their debut. Powering the new MacBooks were the high-end M1 Pro and M1 Max chips that built on the already impressive M1 chips that arrived in November 2020. The laptops received new designs with slim bezels and extra ports, including MagSafe, HDMI, and an SD card slot. That event also saw Apple unveil the third-generation AirPods, new HomePod mini colors, and a cheaper, Siri-powered Apple Music subscription, Apple Music Voice. Apply Now and Request Info will be unavailable from 5 p.m. September 27th until 8 a.m. September 28th due to scheduled maintenance. Thank you for your patience. Manchester, VT (05254) Today Cloudy skies this evening will become partly cloudy after midnight. Low around 25F. Winds light and variable.. Tonight Cloudy skies this evening will become partly cloudy after midnight. Low around 25F. Winds light and variable. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Turkiye is closely monitoring the situation in Karabakh after anti-terrorist activities, Trend reports via the Turkish Ministry of National Defense. "We are closely following the latest situation in the region after anti-terrorist activities of localized nature in Karabakh and once again state that we support efforts to establish permanent peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia," the ministry said. The Department notes that Turkiye continues to support the Azerbaijani brothers in their fair cause under the motto "two states, one nation". Also, on the occasion of Remembrance Day marked in Azerbaijan on September 27, Turkiye expresses respect for the memory of martyrs who gave their lives for ensuring the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. In order to ensure the provisions of the Trilateral Statement [signed by Azerbaijani, Armenian and Russian leaders following the 2020 second Karabakh war], to stop large-scale provocations in the Karabakh economic region, to disarm and withdraw formations of the Armenian armed forces from the territories of Azerbaijan, to neutralize their military infrastructure, to ensure the safety of the peaceful population returning to the territories liberated from occupation, civil servants involved in construction and reconstruction work, and Azerbaijan's military personnel, as well as to restore the constitutional order of the Republic of Azerbaijan, anti-terrorist activities were conducted in the region. Within the framework of the activities, positions of Armenian armed forces formations, their long-term firing points, as well as military means and military facilities, were disrupted using high-precision weapons in the front line and in depth. Civilians and civilian infrastructure were not targets, only legitimate military targets were disabled. Taking into account the appeal of the representatives of the Armenian residents of Karabakh, received through the Russian peacekeeping contingent [temporarily stationed in Azerbaijan under the trilateral statement], an agreement was reached on the suspension of anti-terrorist activities of local nature on September 20, 2023, at 13:00 (GMT+4) under the following conditions: the Armenian armed forces formations and Armenian illegal armed formations located in Azerbaijan's Karabakh region shall lay down their weapons, leave their combat positions and military posts, and fully disarm. The units of the armed forces of Armenia shall leave the territory of Azerbaijan, and the Armenian illegal armed formations shall be disbanded. Following the reported high-profile ransomware attack on a national government agency, Kaspersky is recommending some tips for individuals and companies alike on what to do when theyre notified that their data have been exposed. According to experts, ransomware attacks target organizations every 11 seconds, causing $20 billion in damages globally. This year, a central hospital in Illinois, Chicago in the United States announced its closure partly after suffering from a ransomware attack two years ago. As always, leaked information in the hands of cyber criminals allows them to impersonate or deploy social engineering scams. With exposed data, hackers can get to you whether online or offline -they can send you messages, they know where you live, they can steal your identity and make unlawful financial transactions pretending to be you or hold on to your data to sell it for further financial gain, says Yeo Siang Tiong, General Manager for Southeast Asia at Kaspersky. The recently targeted agency, which is the state insurer, has more than 104 million Filipinos as members, including those who live outside the country as overseas workers. It means that the agency may have and process various types of personal identifiable information (PII), which can be potentially used to identify, contact or locate a specific person. The agency also keeps the medical information submitted by its members for claims verifications and payments. In general, ransomware attacks may end up with the stolen data being put up for sale on the dark web. Prices on personal and corporate data on the darknet may vary. For example, the average cost for access to a big companys systems lies between $2000 and $4000, which is relatively inexpensive compared to the potential damage it could cause targeted businesses. When it comes to personal data, a few years ago our researchers reported that the going rate on the dark web for personal details is $10 each, selfies (photos) with documents fetch for as high as $40 to $60 each and medical records are sold and bought for as much as $30 each. Its crucial that we protect our data because transactions in the dark platform show that its not only valuable to us but also to those with malicious intentions, adds Yeo. While the incident is still under investigation, Kaspersky is strongly recommending for concerned Filipinos to take the following eight (8) steps immediately: As soon as you realize your data may be compromised, inform the people in your life of what happened so they can avoid possible scams using your identity, and help you report to authorities. Check if your email account has been exposed at https://haveibeenpwned.com or https://monitor.firefox.com/ type in the email address associated with you and you will find out if that address was included in any of the leaked databases that these services are aware of. Change the passwords on all your accounts. If there are security questions and answers or PIN codes attached to your account, you should change these too. And use strong passwords. One of our experts shares how to create one here. Secure your computer and other devices with an antivirus and anti-malware software. If your device is installed with Kaspersky Premium, you can use its Data Leak Checker feature that monitors the internet and the dark web to let you know if your personal data is compromised. In order to protect financial data a safe option could be to store all related data in safe and encrypted storage. Modern security solutions like Kaspersky Premium have such storages as Secret Vault. It converts users sensitive data into an unreadable format and protects it with a password. Dont respond directly to requests from a company to give them personal data after a data breach. It could be a social engineering attack. Take the time to read the news, check the companys website or even phone their customer service line to check if the requests are legitimate. Sign up for two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever it is available. Its an extra level of security for your online accounts that requires you to enter an additional piece of identity information. Monitor your accounts for signs of any new activity. If you see transactions that you dont recognize, address them immediately. For organizations whose information have been encrypted for ransom, quick and decisive actions are vital. Your response will help determine whether the incident becomes a deadly headache for the company or a feather in your cap. We can summarize the recovery process in four (4) steps: Step 1: Locate and isolate. Determine the extent of the intrusion. Start by looking for infected computers and network segments and immediately isolate them from the rest of the network to limit contamination. If your company doesnt have many computers, start with antivirus, endpoint detection and response (EDR), and firewall logs. For very limited implementations, physically walk from machine to machine and check them. If were talking about lots of computers, analyze the events and logs in the security information and event management (SIEM) system. After isolating infected machines from the network, create disk images of them and leave the machines alone until the investigation is over. Step 2: Analyze and act. First, see to the security of the rest of the network. Then start the threat-hunting processanalyze the ransomware, figure out how it got in and what groups usually use it. Ransomware doesnt simply appear; a dropper, Remote Access Trojan (RAT), Trojan loader, or something of that nature installed it. For any cybersecurity breach or attack, you need to perform an incident investigation and response to determine the root cause of an incident and ensure a similar incident will not happen again. If your internal team does not have the skills and experience, engage a qualified 3rd party such as Kaspersky Incident Response Services to provide comprehensive digital forensics and incident response service. Step 3: Clean up and restore. Turn your attention to the computers that are out of commission. From those that are no longer needed for investigation, format the drives and restore data from the most recent clean backup. If you have no backup copy, decrypt whatevers on the drives. Start at Kasperskys No Ransom website, where a decryptor may already exist for the ransomware you encountered. If it doesnt, contact your cybersecurity provider for help. In any event, dont delete the encrypted files. New decryptors appear from time to time and there might be one tomorrow. Regardless of the particulars, dont pay up. Youd be sponsoring criminal activity and the chances of getting your data decrypted is not high. Apart from blocking your data, ransomware attackers may have stolen it for blackmail purposes. Paying greedy cybercriminals encourages them to ask for more. In general, consider any stolen data public knowledge and be prepared to deal with the leak. Sooner or later, you will have to talk about the incident with employees, shareholders, government agencies and quite possibly journalists. Openness and honesty are important and will be appreciated. Step 4: Take preventive measures. A major cyber incident always equals big trouble and prevention is the best cure. Prepare in advance for what go wrong: Install reliable protection on all network endpoints (including smartphones) Segment the network and furnish it with well-configured firewalls. Better still, use a next-gen firewall (NGFW) or a similar product that automatically receives data about new threats Look beyond antivirus to powerful threat-hunting tools Deploy a SIEM system if youre a large company for immediate alerts Train employees in cybersecurity awareness with regular interactive sessions Deploy Managed Detection and Response service to proactively monitor and detect cyber-threats or cyber-attacks that automated prevention and detection tools may have missed Deploy Threat Intelligence to understand the adversaries or cyber-criminals who are targeting your organization, business reputation and assets thus providing better cyber-threat mitigation measures Use Digital Footprint Intelligence services to help security analysts explore an adversarys view of their company resources and promptly discover the potential attack vectors available to them. This also helps raise awareness about existing threats from cybercriminals in order to adjust your defenses accordingly or take counter and elimination measures timely. As you step through the recovery process, remember to document all of your actions for transparency in the eyes of both employees and the wider world. Preserve any evidence you can of the ransomware for later efforts to locate any other malicious tools targeting your system. That means saving logs and other traces of malware that may come in handy during later investigation. Our doors at Kaspersky are always open to share our expertise to any organization, be it public or private, to these kinds of challenges. Some would say Veronika Rajek already has the dream job. The stunning Slovakian model has amassed a small fortune thanks to her enormous following on social media and subscription based platforms such as OnlyFans. With six million followers on Instagram alone, she's become one of the most recognizable figures online, which has allowed her to fulfill dreams like moving to the US and living a lavish lifestyle outside of her native Slovakia. Despite this, it looks like Rajek might rather be in a different profession. The blonde bombshell revealed what her dream job is via an Instagram story on Thursday and fans have can't believe it. Filmed from a store in what looked like LA, the model uploaded a video of her lying peacefully on a very comfortable looking mattress with the caption: "My dream job" with three laughing-crying emojis. In the hilarious clip, it looked as if the self-proclaimed 'bikini babe' was about to drop off to sleep. Having recently moved to the US, it's likely that Rajek was mattress hunting having hinted in a recent Instagram story that she's just bought a new house. An iconic Somerville restaurant located in an historic dining car will be shutting down this weekend to transition to a new model and staff members are furious they were laid off in the process. Rosebud American Kitchen & Bar, located at 381 Summer St., will give its last service on Oct. 1, after which it will close while new ownership makes changes to the menu and staff and perform renovations. When it reopens, the restaurant will serve a brand-new menu of Indian-inspired dishes. The whole objective of the Rosebud revamp is to transform the historic diner into an Indian-inspired American diner, said Sruthi Chowdary, partner and marketing director with Bindaas Concepts, the new ownership company. We will still have a section of classics for the history because we want to honor that. We never want to take that away from Rosebuds existence. We want to just give the train car food culture from India ... we still will keep that piece intact and just open up the boundaries. Chowdary said when the company was preparing to open a new location of one of its other brands, Madras Dosa Company, in Harvard Square, they were approached by the former owners of Rosebud, Alpine Group, to see if they were interested in purchasing it. They fell in love with both the neighborhood and the community around the Rosebud, she said, and while they had only done Indian food up until that point, they wanted to branch out. After about six months of negotiations, they took over the restaurant in June and began making expensive improvements to the space. Soon, though, Chowdary said the new owners realized the restaurant was not sustainable. Despite their original plan to keep Rosebuds staff of about 50 and leave everything mostly the same, on Thursday, Sept. 21, they held a staff meeting to announce that everyone, including front-of-house, back-of-house and management employees, would be laid off. It felt like (they) really just pulled the rug out from beneath us, said one Rosebud employee, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of retribution from her employer. This place is a family. We love each other. I cannot put into words the love and bond that we all have with each other there ... People have been there for 10 years, people have been there for five years and some people immigrated here and it was just the beginning of the rest of their lives. Mariah Campbell, a Rosebud bartender who started working there as a server in 2019, said she and other members of the team felt Bindaas had plenty of notice about the financial investment it would take to bring the restaurant back to its former glory. She said the staff had put together a list of renovations needed when the company bought the diner, such as fixing the HVAC system and repairing the aging bar. Campbell said she felt that the owners had jumped right to eliminating the full staff as a first step to fixing financial problems. I really dont want them to succeed, she said. But at the same time, I almost do want them to succeed because everything that weve worked for is about to go down the drain. And if they also close right away, its like we lost our jobs for nothing. We lost our second home for nothing. While the owners encouraged staff members to apply for unemployment benefits and provided letters saying they had been laid off due to a closure of the restaurant, the employee said some members of the team had been hired recently enough that they didnt have enough hours to qualify. The company has said that employees will be allowed to reapply for jobs when Rosebud reopens, but both employees who spoke to MassLive said that was not immediately made clear to them when they were told about the closure. A few days after the staff meeting, some employees began posting anonymously on Facebook to let people in the neighborhood know and voice their concerns about how it had happened. With rumors flying around, the Rosebud ownership team posted to the restaurants Facebook page, saying that the unsustainable losses they had suffered since taking over forced them into the challenging yet indispensable choice. The statement cited the anonymous posts from employees as their reason for making the announcement at that time. Campbell said she and other staff members felt that there was a disconnect between what the company was saying publicly and what they were seeing internally. Their wording has been extremely deceitful, and theyre really just trying to alter the narrative with it, she said. Its just truly not an acknowledgement of what happened, nor is it a feasible resolution for anybody or any of the workers who just lost their jobs. Customers quickly sounded off in the comments criticizing the decision, and the situation devolved from there, with negative comments being removed and some commenters, including employees, being blocked from the Facebook page. Chowdary said the company felt that because they did not know how long Rosebud would be closed, it wasnt fair to the employees to keep them on, and the 12 days notice was the most they could afford. She also acknowledged that Rosebuds social media response had been mishandled, and that they took care of it as soon as they realized a team member had been deleting negative comments and blocking people. When Rosebud does reopen, some things will stay the same: the popular brunch service will return, just with some new additions (guava, mango or lychee mimosas are one addition that may be coming), and while much of the menu will be inspired by Indian cuisine, staples such as burgers, eggs Benedict and French toast will remain. We learned a lot from this experience, Chowdary said. We want to continue to grow. So we are trying to do everything right as much as we can. The anonymous employee told MassLive that Rosebud customers have been coming out strong in the final week to support the staff, and she has been able to speak with regulars about the situation. And a manager put together a tip line for the back-of-house staff so customers could donate to those employees too. Theyre tipping well, which is obviously appreciated, but its just the fact that they care enough to come in ... to support us until the end, she said. The people who are defending us online, those are people who love Rosebud. Those are people who are showing some empathy and compassion. And it mean so much more than they know. Westfield - Westfield State University will be hosting its annual Government, Criminal Justice and Non-Profit Career Fair on Thursday, Oct. 12, from 1 to 3:30 p.m. in the Woodward Center, 395 Western Ave. The fair offers a convenient opportunity for Westfield students and residents to network with employers and learn what it would be like to work for area non-profits and government agencies. Representatives from police departments throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut and New Hampshire will be available to answer questions and showcase their agencies to prospective employees. Some of the registered city and town agencies include Amherst, Enfield, Ct., Holyoke, Northampton, and Westfield. Registered state police agencies include Massachusetts, Connecticut and New York. Registered non-profits and government agencies include, May Institute, Center for Human Development, Gandara Center, Match Education, Peace Corps, ServiceNet, Wellpath and Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security. The job fair is free and open to the public. parking is available in the South Lot off Western Avenue. Shuttle service will run continually throughout the event. For more information, contact the Career Center at Westfield State University, 413-572-5206. Jury deliberations began in Hampshire Superior Court on Wednesday afternoon after closing arguments in the trial of Cara Rintala, the former Granby woman charged in the death of her wife Annamarie Cochrane Rintala who was found strangled and covered in paint in the couples home in 2010. The arguments presented on the two sides were starkly different, with prosecutors arguing that only Rintala had the means and opportunity to kill her wife, while the defense said the investigation by police was flawed from the start and was built with only one suspect in mind. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Another meeting between the central authorities of Azerbaijan and the representatives of Armenian residents of Karabakh, Trend reports. At the moment, there is no particular date for holding the meeting. The central authorities of Azerbaijan will be represented at the meeting by Ramin Mammadov, who is responsible for contacts with the Armenian residents of Karabakh. As proposed by the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the meeting with the representatives of the Armenian residents living in the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan to discuss the reintegration issues, based on the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan and its laws, was held on September 21, 2023, in Yevlakh. In the context of discussing social and humanitarian issues, the representatives of the Armenian residents of Azerbaijan's Karabakh region informed that there is a special need for fuel. At the same time, they asked for humanitarian assistance in the form of foodstuffs. As a result of the meeting, their request was taken seriously. Until now, Azerbaijan has already supplied fuel for the heating systems of kindergartens and schools, as well as the emergency medical service and fire department, and provided humanitarian support for Karabakh residents. Meanwhile, on September 25, 2023, another meeting between Ramin Mammadov, the point person for contacts with ethnic Armenian residents of Karabakh, with representatives of Armenian residents of Karabakh was held in the city of Khojaly. Agreement was reached on organizing a meeting of the working group led by the Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Shahin Mustafayev on the solution of social, humanitarian, economic and infrastructure issues with relevant representatives dealing with utility, health and other civil services in the area, including the city of Khankendi, in order to determine the directions of further action. The sides also agreed to set up a joint working group for this purpose. It was also suggested that healthcare services in the field hospital to be established near the city of Khankendi or in the direction of Khojaly should be jointly organized by medical staff of Azerbaijani and Armenian origin. It was also proposed to establish a mobile food supply service by Azerbaijani and Armenian service personnel. The sides expressed their readiness to provide necessary medical assistance to persons suffering from chronic diseases or are in need of special surgery. In addition, the sides emphasized the importance of establishing joint mobile medical teams consisting of medical workers of Azerbaijani and Armenian origin, providing services to lone people in remote villages. The proposal to organize visits of civil society representatives and social activists of Armenian origin living in the Karabakh economic region to Baku or other cities of Azerbaijan was emphasized. It was noted that such initiatives were important in terms of creating a civil society dialogue platform, as well as implementing confidence-building measures. An agreement was reached to hold the next meeting soon in order to discuss the results of the work done and determine further steps. The company, search engine and verb Google celebrated its 25th birthday on Wednesday with a unique doodle, animation and new feature just for the occasion. Born Google Inc., the company was founded by Stanford University graduates Sergey Brin and Larry Page. By fate or luck, the two doctoral students met in the late 1990s and quickly learned they shared a similar vision: make the World Wide Web a more accessible place, according to a statement. The pair worked tirelessly from their dorm rooms to develop a prototype for a better search engine, the statement read. As they made meaningful progress on the project, they moved the operation to Googles first office a rented garage. On September 27, 1998, Google Inc. was officially born. Over time, the companys logo has alternated into what people are familiar with today. Wednesdays doodle reflected that, showing each logo morphing into the next before the two Os emit confetti before turning into a two and a five, using the curves to resemble the Os. Much has changed since 1998 including our logo as seen in todays Doodle but the mission has remained the same: to organize the worlds information and make it universally accessible and useful, the statement continued. Billions of people from all over the globe use Google to search, connect, work, play and SO much more! With a briefly updated logo, the company offered a function for users who clicked on G25gle that brought them to a confetti-lined page that said in the search bar Its Googles 25th birthday. Users could also click two buttons seen at the bottom of the page. Google celebrated its 25th birthday Sept. 27, 2023 with a homepage doodle that "honors the evolution of the Google logo, and if you search for (or hum) birthday-related queries, you might see a little surprise." That includes a rain of confetti down the screen, followed by a button at the bottom of the page that allows the user to get more confetti on-demand.Google.com The button on the rate allowed users to share the page commemorating Googles 25 birthday. When clicked, the button on the left summons more confetti to fall from the top of the screen. The more that the button was clicked, the more confetti dropped to the bottom of the screen. Google also showed its past birthday doodles, including the logo featuring two Ls for its 11th birthday in 2009; a snapshot of the logo in a room, wearing a birthday hat and surrounded by balloons and presents, about to blow candles out on a cake for its 13th birthday in 2011; and another snapshot featuring a 90s-style computer with the old logo, exclamation point included, on the screen to celebrate the companys 21st birthday in 2019. Doodles not related to the birthday could also be seen, including two for Vietnams Mid-Autumn Festival in 2015, one for Germanys election day in 2009 and one remembering Turkish archaeologist Jale Inan in 2022. Andrew Brow, owner of HighBrow, said he remembers when the Iron Horse was open and there would be a line out the door of Local Burger at 2 a.m. After years of vacancy, business owner Eric Suher has sold the Iron Horse Music Hall to The Parlor Room, according to the business president and director. The two men arrested in connection with a masked, armed home invasion in Brookline in July pleaded not guilty to several charges during their arraignment on Wednesday, with a third man believed to be involved being sought by detectives, Brookline police said in a press release. Manuel Alicea, 31, of Tewksbury, and Dominic Harden, 34, of Lowell, pleaded not guilty at their arrangement at Brookline District Court on Wednesday, according to Norfolk District Attorney Michael W. Morrisseys office in the statement by police. Both men were ordered held without bail pending a hearing on Oct. 2 at 11 a.m. under the Commonwealths Dangerousness Statute, the statement read. Alicea and Harden were charged with home invasion, conspiracy, possession of a firearm, possession of ammunition, discharge of a firearm within 500 feet of a dwelling and larceny of $1,200. Read more: Man accused of attacking police officers in Taunton held without bail At around 2:19 a.m. on July 18, police arrived at 45 Warren St. after receiving a report about an armed robbery, police said in a statement. Multiple masked people forced entry to the residence and assaulted an occupant in the home, police added. Police added that detectives are actively seeking a third party in connection with this crime. They released a warrant for Corey Buchanan, 31, of Lowell. Officers said he is wanted for home invasion, conspiracy, possession of a firearm, possession of ammunition without an FID card and discharge of a firearm within 500 feet of a dwelling. Anyone with information about Buchanan was asked to call Brookline police at 617-730-2222. SPRINGFIELD A Hampden Superior Court judge found Miguel Rodriguez guilty of seven criminal counts, including aggravated rape and kidnapping, after a weeklong trial. Rodriguez, 27, grabbed an 11-year-old girl off the street on Jan. 15, 2020, hurling her into the back of his car as she walked home from the school bus stop, according to testimony. SPRINGFIELD A little more than a month before a Nov. 7 election in Springfield, unions and local and statewide politicians have begun to show support for municipal candidates. While some candidates for City Council say they dont emphasize endorsements, one of them landed an unusual salute. Former Gov. Charlie Baker and former Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito say they are backing Jose Delgado, an at-large candidate for City Council. Delgado served as the Western Mass. director and deputy chief of staff for access for the Baker administration for two years and works now in the Executive Office of Public Safety in Gov. Maura Healeys administration. In statements, Baker and Polito described Delgado as a hard worker who doesnt get distracted by divisive politics. Delgado, came in fifth place in the preliminary election Sept. 12, receiving 3,841 votes, or 6.94% of the vote, according to the citys website. Delgado said the endorsements honor his 15 years of public service. Every endorsement matters Endorsements are powerful, especially in the City Council race, says Anthony Cignoli, a political consultant and owner of AL Cignoli Co. of Springfield. There are so many candidates running that anything that helps you differentiate yourself from another candidate, like an endorsement from former Governor Baker and former Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito, can be super helpful, he said. Thats a great endorsement and Im sure that a lot of the other candidates have got some powerful endorsements too. Of the 21 candidates on the preliminary election ballot for the five at-large council seats, 10 advanced to November, including Delgado. Sean Curran, Kateri Walsh and Trayce Whitfield are seeking re-election. Brian Santinello, Gerry Martin, Nicole Coakley, Willie Naylor, Juan Caraballo III and Juan Latorre are also campaigning for one of the five seats. Some of the candidates have received a bundle of endorsements. Coakley, for instance, has received support from the group Democrats for Education Reform, former state Rep. Ben Swan, School Committee member Latonia Monroe-Naylor and councilors Lavar Click-Bruce, Curran and Malo Brown. Actually reaching out to residents, however, is the main goal for most candidates, they said in responses to The Republican. In interviews, Naylor and Curran both said that the most important support comes from the residents and voters of Springfield. Were not really looking for those, Naylor said of endorsements. This is my first time running and its really the people that have gotten me this far. Curran said he expects to announce endorsements later. But really the greatest endorsement I can get is from the voters of Springfield. And hopefully it reflects in the hard work I do on the City Council. Whitfield, whos received an endorsement from Democrats for Education Reform and from the Massachusetts Womens Political Caucus, said her endorsements are from the people. Whitfield received 5,515 votes, or 9.96% of the vote, according to the citys website. Based on election results, I think Im going to accomplish that, Whitfield said. Im going to just keep working hard, knocking on doors, listening to people talk because what they want matters most. Latorre declined to comment on endorsements hes received, saying he planned to list them at a later date. Santinello, Caraballo III and Walsh could not be reached for comment. 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. Birth and death doula Jessica Paulino of Boston works with parents experiencing pregnancy and infant loss through The EMA Project. (Courtesy photo) Jessica Paulino Age: 43 Community: Boston Her story: In March of 2020, Jessica Paulino went through a personal tragedy the death of her infant son, Eddie Manuel Arnold. Her baby was born at 24 weeks of gestation and lived 22 days. His life and death have awakened a passion in me to support my community, Paulino said. Paulino founded The EMA Project named using her sons initials to support maternal health with a focus on closing the higher mortality gap for birthing mothers of color. She is a birth and death doula, helping families by nurturing them through each process and providing culturally competent peer support for families experiencing both pregnancy and infant loss. My hearts work is being in community and of community to allow you to find the medicine that may help you grieve and process trauma, she said. In her words: Find other humans who can hold you during this time. We need more culturally competent providers in this space. 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. A Boston Federal Court judge sentenced a Chelsea woman who exchanged low-cost flights to more expensive flights for friends and family while working as an airline gate agent, according to acting U.S. Attorney Joshua Levys office. Tiffany Jenkins, 35, pleaded guilty to three counts of wire fraud in October 2019, Levys office said in a statement. On Thursday, U.S. Senior District Court Judge Mark L. Wolk sentenced her to one day of time served while in custody and 18 months of supervised release with the first three months to be served on curfew. Between around July 1, 2016, through Sept. 27, 2017, Jenkins made up to 505 involuntary ticket exchanges for over 100 different passengers as an agent for an unnamed airline, Levys office said. Most of them occurred after the passenger was already booked on domestic flights at one of the airline companys lowest available fares, commonly with roundtrip flights between Las Vegas and Long Beach, California. After a short while, Jenkins would exchange those tickets for a completely different city pair, generally involving much more expensive international locations, for friends, family and acquaintances, Levys office said. As a gate agent, she had access to the airlines computer reservation database. With a special code, known as an involuntary exchange or INVOL, she could change flights for customers with no added cost. The code is intended to change flights for customers who miss their flights or experience a death in the family, Levys office said. Top Biden administration officials and higher education leaders will unveil new strategies Thursday for increasing diversity on college campuses that comply with the U.S. Supreme Courts ruling that struck down affirmative action earlier this year. Javier Reyes, the new chancellor of the University of Massachusetts Amherst, will speak at Thursdays event from the White House, according to a news release. He is one of a half-dozen college officials from across the country invited to deliver remarks alongside U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona and White House Domestic Policy Council Director Neera Tanden. In June, after the nations highest court effectively ended the direct consideration of race in college admissions, President Joe Biden commissioned a U.S. Department of Education report on how college administrators might still proactively diversify their student bodies. That report, Strategies for Increasing Diversity and Opportunity in Higher Education, will be released during the 1 p.m. event. It will be livestreamed at this link. Demonstrators protest outside of the Supreme Court in Washington, Thursday, June 29, 2023, after the Supreme Court struck down affirmative action in college admissions, saying race cannot be a factor. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)AP Reyes, who took the helm of Massachusetts flagship public campus this summer, is the only college administrator from New England speaking at Thursdays event, the news release said. Also invited were the leaders of the University of California, Los Angeles; Princeton University; Northern Virginia Community College; Trinity Washington University in Washington, D.C.; and Morgan State University in Baltimore. White House officials said in June that the report would examine a variety of topics tied to increasing diversity in higher education, including how university admissions officers can measure the adversity prospective students have faced in their lives, legacy admissions and other practices that could hurt the chances of underrepresented students being accepted to college, strategies to diversify the pool of college applicants, and programs that can make attaining a degree more affordable. Thursdays event and the accompanying report, the White House announcement said, will cover promising practices to build inclusive, diverse student bodies in the wake of the Supreme Courts decision on affirmative action. The Old Chapel and W.E.B. Du Bois Library at the University of Massachusetts Amherst (Will Katcher/MassLive). The courts 6-3 ruling in late June found that the admission policies at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, which considered an applicants racial background, violated the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. In a majority opinion, Chief Justice John Roberts wrote that both programs lack sufficiently focused and measurable objectives warranting the use of race, unavoidably employ race in a negative manner, involve racial stereotyping, and lack meaningful end points. In a speech from the White House following the decision, Biden insisted that the ruling could not be the last word on the decades-old policy of affirmative action, which the high court had upheld in previous rulings. We need a new path forward a path consistent with a law that protects diversity and expands opportunity, Biden said. BOSTON A Westfield woman who prosecutors say made a fake bomb threat to Boston Childrens Hospital and told staff You better evacuate everybody you sickos pleaded guilty to the crime in federal court Thursday. Catherine Leavy, 37, admitted to making a false bomb threat and intentionally conveying false or misleading information that a bomb was on the way. U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin scheduled her sentencing for March 19, 2024, according to a statement from acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy. Her call, which took place at about 8 p.m., Aug. 30, forced a lockdown of the hospital and surrounding area. A bomb squad investigated and found no explosive device at the medical center, he said. There is a bomb on the way to the hospital; you better evacuate everybody you sickos, Leavy told a hospital operator, according to the charges. The bomb threat, which was reported on national news, was among a barrage of similar calls and emails directed at the hospital and individual staff after a post circulated on a right-wing social media site about the procedures doctors perform at the hospitals Gender Multispecialty Service program. Most of the information in the post was incorrect, hospital officials said after the threat. An examination of phone records determined the phone number used to make the call was assigned to Leavy. Data from cell phone towers also revealed the phone was near Leavys home when the bomb threat was made, said the statement from the Department of Justice. During a search of Leavys residence on Sept. 15, 2022, the phone used to make the threat was recovered. In an on-scene interview with law enforcement, Leavy expressed disapproval of Boston Childrens Hospital on multiple occasions. Leavy also admitted that she called in the threat to Boston Childrens Hospital on Aug. 30, 2022, but stated that she had no plan or intention to actually bomb the hospital, according to the statement. She faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000, Levy, the prosecutor, said. The case was investigated by the FBI and Boston Police with the assistance of Westfield police, he said. Three months after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the direct consideration of race in college admissions, top Biden administration officials and higher education leaders on Thursday said other strategies still allow colleges to proactively diversify their campuses while complying with the law. In a report released Thursday, the U.S. Department of Education urged college administrators to end admissions policies that favor the children of alumni, to recruit students from diverse backgrounds, and to take into account the adversity a prospective student has faced, including their financial means and where they went to high school, when weighing their application. We are not going to be able to succeed as a multi-racial democracy or compete globally if diverse students lack access to our most life-changing higher education opportunities, U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said Thursday at an event at the White House announcing the report. So inaction is not an option here. Cardona was flanked Thursday by Domestic Policy Council Director Neera Tanden and select college administrators, including University of Massachusetts Amherst Chancellor Javier Reyes. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona speaks during an interview with The Associated Press in his office at the Department of Education, Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2023 in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) It is so important that students of color, including underrepresented minority students, see themselves in college and have the opportunity to realize the promise and possibilities of higher education, Reyes, who took over Massachusetts flagship campus in July, said Thursday. He said UMass Amherst adopted a holistic approach to its admissions nearly a decade ago, committing to balance traditional metrics like a students high school GPA with other factors, including their life experience and personal obstacles. Since 2011, Reyes said, the percentage of underrepresented minorities in UMass Amhersts incoming classes has jumped 70%. In the wake of the Supreme Courts decision, the university also added an essay question to its application that allowed hopeful students to describe how a community to which they belong whether that be a racial group, religion, geographic area, or even an athletic team helped shape their personal identity. The report released Thursday came roughly three months after the Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that the admission policies at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, which considered an applicants racial background, violated the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. In a majority opinion, Chief Justice John Roberts wrote that both programs lack sufficiently focused and measurable objectives warranting the use of race, unavoidably employ race in a negative manner, involve racial stereotyping, and lack meaningful end points. The Old Chapel and W.E.B. Du Bois Library at the University of Massachusetts Amherst (Will Katcher/MassLive). In a speech from the White House following the decision, Biden insisted that the ruling could not be the last word on the decades-old policy of affirmative action, which the high court had upheld in previous rulings. We need a new path forward a path consistent with a law that protects diversity and expands opportunity, Biden said. On Thursday, Cardona said the courts decision took away a tool to increase diversity on our college campuses. And even with that tool, our college campuses werent as beautifully diverse as our country. The report concluded that collegiate leaders should invest in outreach to K-12 schools that serve diverse populations, as well as community colleges, Historically Black Colleges and Universities and other institutions that serve racially and economically diverse students. In admissions, the report said colleges should incorporate factors such as a students financial means, how the area in which they were raised might have affected their education, and other sources of inspiration or demonstration of resiliency. The administration also urged colleges to simplify the process of applying for financial aid, increase need-based aid, and take other measures to make achieving a college degree less financially cumbersome. In the post-affirmative-action era, higher education institutions are called on to reexamine how their admissions practices may promote privilege over expanding access to educational opportunity for underserved communities, the report said. Working together, state and education leaders can help ensure underserved students can thrive across diverse college campuses. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Azerbaijans restoration of its sovereignty will only reinforce the development of cooperation between Azerbaijan and Israel, President of Israel-Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IACCI) Alex Kaplun told Trend. When the problems in the country are being solved and people are supportive of everything that is happening, including the liberation of their lands, peace's restoration paves the way for progress, he said. The IACCI president added that the state and people of Israel support Azerbaijan in reestablishing its sovereignty. Israel and Azerbaijan have always been friends and will be friends for a very long time, and we are putting a lot of effort to guarantee that, so I think our cooperation will only continue developing. We see a lot of ministerial visits to both countries, including the recent visits of Director General of the Ministry of Defense of Israel Eyal Zamir and Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development of Israel Avi Dichter to Azerbaijan, Kaplun said. Israel has been supportive of Azerbaijan's position with regard to restoring its territorial integrity, and in particular in the second Karabakh war in 2020. This was noted by Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov after meeting with his Israeli counterpart Eli Cohen back in March. Also, both countries regularly hold meetings related to military cooperation, considering Israel's advanced technology and achievements. Borrowers in Western Massachusetts are rearranging their finances and reexamining payment options, preparing to resume paying down their student loans at the beginning of October. Some, like special education teacher Melinda T. Murphy, feel like the system to resume payments has been confusing and left them wondering where to turn. Murphy who graduated in 2011 with a bachelors in human service from Springfield College and then a masters in school counseling in 2016 from Cambridge College-Springfield, said she has struggled to make payments even before the COVID-19. When an illness prevented her from working, Murphy asked her loan servicer for relief due to financial hardship at the end of 2017. Murphy then went back to work as a paraprofessional in 2018. She has about $105,000 in student loans. And I still did not have the finances to pay back the loans, Murphy said. In March of 2020, as a part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act congress implemented a pandemic forbearance that paused federal student loan payments and granted borrowers 0% interest on their loan payments. In June, the U.S. Supreme Court voted against the Biden-Harris administrations one-time debt relief program. After several extensions and three years, interest on student loans has resumed and it is now time for 44 million Americans to start payments again. Murphy said, she could not afford to pay back her student loans during the pause. At that time, my job was not paying me enough to pay the loans back, Murphy said. Recently, it was not until she went looking for information about student loan forgiveness that she learned her student loan servicer had changed during the pandemic. She also learned of new repayment options. The lack of information given out bothers me a lot, she said, adding that borrowers should share information with each other about payment options to help each other out. Murphy is currently unemployed and is on a temporary deferred payment plan but worries whether her payments will be affordable once she reenters the workforce. When I start my new job it (monthly payments) might be more than $50, Murphy said. I am still trying to get my life together. Murphy is not alone. A survey released Sept. 19 commissioned by the Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company found that for Massachusetts residents, the vast majority who have student loans say the resumption of payments will hit them in the pocketbook. A full 87% say the payments will have an impact on their daily finances. Of the Massachusetts residents polled, about a third 32% expect their payments will be less than $300. About a quarter, or 26% say their monthly student loan bills will cost them at least $500 a month. And when pollsters asked the group in August, 15% said they had no idea what they would be paying once the bills started to accrue. During the pandemic, 24% of those polled in the MassMutual survey said they directed the funds that went to paying off student loans toward consumer goods. Now with the payments resuming, a full 81% of those with student debt in Massachusetts will redirect spending: 40% will slash luxuries from their budgets while 41% will look for price cuts among their essential purchases. And for some borrowers, the pandemic pause helped make ends meet. Venus Morales, who works in the health care industry as an administrative support assistant, graduated from The Branford Hall Career Institute in 2015 as a certified paralegal. The for-profit Branford Halls Springfield campus owned by Premier Education Group closed its doors in 2018. Morales who is currently seeking bankruptcy protection said she would be able to manage if the payments were $30 a month. Morales said during the pause, she was also unable to make any payments on the $14,000 she owes in federal student loans due to financial hardships she encountered because of the pandemic. I have not made any payment on my student loans because I lost my job during the pandemic, and with doing bankruptcy, itll still stay on my credit and give me a hard time to get another loan for a new home, Morales said. Morales said she was just made aware of how to access a loan forgiveness program recently and intends on applying to an income-driven payment plan as well as seeking to have the loans she took out to attend Branford Hall discharged by making a borrower defense application. According to American International College Director of Financial Aid, Richard OConnor, any borrowers who have not paid on their loan and who graduated in the last 10 years could be impacted by the end of the pandemic forbearance. He said staff at AIC are preparing to help students with the process as much as they can, he said. Updating information on the federal student aid website at studentaid.gov is the best way to get the latest updates about repayment options, OConnor said. It is a one-stop shop to get the latest updates about repayment and loan forgiveness at some point, OConnor said. OConnor said there are close to 10 to 12 repayment options that borrowers can apply to and a 12-month on-ramp process, that eases students into repayment. The Department of Education will not report a missed payment for a year, he said. While the temporary on-ramp period will extend through the end of September 2024, and protects borrowers from having a delinquency reported to credit agencies interest will continue to accrue. According to the Department of Education, the Saving on a Valuable Education Plan (SAVE) is the newest income-driven repayment plan. The SAVE Plan calculates monthly payment amounts based on income and family size. The SAVE Plan provides the lowest monthly payments of any IDR plan available to nearly all student borrowers, said Stephanie King, executive director of student financial services at Bay Path University. On Sept. 5, the Biden-Harris administration announced more than 4 million borrowers were enrolled in the SAVE Plan. Meanwhile, other borrowers are finding unique ways to deal with their student loans. For instance, borrower Stephanie Arroyo hadnt paid loans since 2018. I was in deferment right before the pandemic started and then it turned into the pandemic pause, said Arroyo. Arroyo graduated from Bay Path University in 2017. She had earned a bachelors degree in forensic psychology and then a masters degree in clinical mental health counseling. The two degrees caused her to accrue $98,000 in loans. Now a licensed mental health clinician, Arroyo said she believes that because she worked throughout the pandemic as a school coordinator her loans should qualify for full forgiveness. Arroyo applied for the Temporary Expanded Public Service Loan Forgiveness program last year, which cancels student loans after 10 years aiming to provide debt relief to support teachers, nurses, firefighters, and other essential workers. In 2018, Congress expanded the program and provided $350 million in loan forgiveness funds for borrowers who qualify. For the PSLF you must have had made 10 years of payments and work in a nonprofit or state agency. So, Ive worked for both nonprofit and for the public school, Arroyo said. They counted all my years in deferment and pandemic months, added it towards loan forgiveness, and my payment plan is lower now, Arroyo said. Arroyo said she then applied for the SAVE program last month and just became eligible and her payments were lowered from $400 to about $120. Its going to be an extra thing but at least right now $120 is better than $400. Ill get up until September of this year added to my forgiveness track and Ill only have to pay two more years and then I will complete my 10 years and they will forgive the rest of my loans. That is at least significant, she said. A woman who was rushed to the hospital after her car plunged into the ocean off a Cape Cod beach Monday night has died, according to the Yarmouth Police Department. The department posted on Facebook Thursday, Sept. 28, that the woman, who was brought to Cape Cod Hospital, had died from her injuries. Her name was not released. Police and firefighters were called after a car drove into the waters off Bayview Street Beach in Yarmouth just after 10:30 p.m. on Sept. 25, Yarmouth police said. The car had crashed at the end of a dead-end street and landed about 100 feet out into the water, police said. When crews arrived, they found the vehicle floating in the channel. Shortly after, the car went under the water and was eventually found in about 15 feet of water, the department said. The woman was the only person in the car. The Yarmouth Police Department, Yarmouth Fire Department and the Yarmouth Department of Natural Resources all helped with pulling the woman from her vehicle. The investigation is ongoing by the Massachusetts State Police and Yarmouth Police. No foul play is suspected, police said. Miguel Hernandez, also known as Miguel Gomez-Lopez, 29, of Dorchester, has been charged with the sexual exploitation of a 14-year-old girl, according to a statement released by Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levys office. Hernandez has been charged with one count of sexual exploitation of a child, Levys office said. Hernandez was arrested on Sept. 25 and will be held pending a detention hearing scheduled for Oct. 2 in federal court in Boston. In April, Hernandez messaged the 14-year-old on WhatsApp and told her he was 25 years old., He then allegedly asked if she wanted to meet in person, according to court documents. She then met Hernandez in person and began to spend time with Hernandez and his friends. On May 5, Hernandez allegedly messaged the girl saying, I like you little girl, and subsequently coerced [her] to engage in a sexual relationship with him, Levys office said in its statement. A forensic review of Hernandezs two phones allegedly, showed numerous sexually explicit photos and videos of the girl that Hernandez had taken, Levys office said. The charge for child exploitation provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and up to 30 years in prison, up to five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000 said the attorneys office. Officials urge people who are impacted or are experiencing commercial sex trafficking to contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov. Massachusetts majority-Democrat state Senate gave final approval Thursday to a $1 billion compromise tax package that delivers relief to seniors, renters and low-income residents, putting an end at least for now to a contentious chapter in Bay State politics. The 38-1 vote, which came shortly after 12:30 p.m., positions the bill for a signature by Gov. Maura Healey, who ran on promises of tax relief and making the state more economically competitive. It will offer $561 million in relief this year, rising to $1 billion to fiscal 2027, State House News Service reported. State Sen. James B. Eldridge, D-Middlesex/Worcester, was the lone no voter in the upper chamber, according to an official Senate roll call. During floor debate on Thursday, Senate Ways & Means Committee Chairperson Michael J. Rodrigues, D-Bristol/Plymouth, touted efforts by the joint House and Senate conference committee that negotiated the bill to include provisions aimed at bringing down housing costs, to encourage affordable housing construction, and to make the state more affordable for lower-income residents and young families. An analysis by WiseVoter ranked the Bay State as the 3rd most-expensive nationwide for its cost of living, finishing behind only Hawaii and Washington D.C, but ahead of California. The people who want to be here and grow here those are the people we knew we must help, he said. Among other changes, the bill more than doubles the states child and dependent tax credit, taking it from $180 to $310 for qualifying dependents this year, and then to $440 for every qualifying dependent in 2024. The compromise bill also doubles the maximum tax credit for senior citizens who rent or own homes in the Bay State from $1,200 to $2,400, an increase that is estimated to help 100,000 seniors who struggle with housing costs to stay in their residences. And it hikes the deduction for renters from the current $3,000 to $4,000. Sen. Rebecca L. Rausch, D-Norfolk/Worcester/Middlesex, expressed some misgivings about corporate cuts in the tax package, but said shed be a yes vote. The compromise bill makes cuts to short-term capital gain taxes and estate taxes. You might be asking, how does a corporate tax change affect individuals? Because, revenue, she said. And as I said earlier, trickle down economics doesnt work. Thursdays vote also had its theatrical moments. Digging into a large sack on his desk, Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, R-Essex/Middlesex, compared the compromise package to a stew. Then, reeling off ingredients of the bill written on cards, Tarr dug into the sack, and added them to a metal mixing bowl on his desk. All of these ingredients taste really good, and theyre important to have as part of this stew that represents this conference report, he said. Unfortunately, it doesnt have all of its components that taste really sweet. The bill, Tarr argued, includes several poison pills, including changes to filing rules for people filing joint tax returns and a tax refund law known as Chapter 62F. Each of the provisions were identified by a black card bearing a skull and crossbones. Still, we have found a way forward and that shouldnt be lost. We have found a way to provide $1 billion in tax relief to the citizens of Massachusetts ... good first steps, Tarr said. The stew still tastes pretty good. Unfortunately, it could have tasted a lot better ... But we are here, and we are thankful for getting to this point. On Wednesday, the state House voted overwhelmingly, 155-1, to approve the bill, which Democratic leaders unveiled last week with scant details. The compromise package marked an apparent thaw among House and Senate leaders all Democrats who have struggled to see eye-to-eye on key issues. But with bills moving out of committee and the breakthrough on the tax package, there was hope on Beacon Hill this week that smoother sailing lies ahead, Politico Massachusetts reported. The reports of the death of the collaboration between the House and the Senate [are] greatly exaggerated, House Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Aaron Michlewitz, D-Suffolk, said at a Tuesday news conference where Democratic bosses sketched out the broad details of the tax plan, Politico reported. During floor remarks on Wednesday, Michlewitz praised the compromise package, saying it was a gift of relief to those of our constituents that need it the most. It shows responsibility to todays economy and government trust. Rep. Mike Connolly, D-Middlesex, the Houses lone no vote, however, said he didnt think it went far enough. I still cannot bring myself to support the total price tag of $1.1 billion once fully implemented, Connolly said told his colleagues in floor remarks. Not after we just spent a decade working to pass the Fair Share Amendment to gain desperately needed new revenue. Business groups largely welcomed the tax package, even as they agreed that the state still has work ahead of it. This legislation demonstrates that the Legislature prioritizes our states workers, employers, and economic competitiveness. As we continue to advance our competitive edge, tax relief and a strong business climate will help ensure that the Commonwealth attracts and retains residents and businesses, especially as other states actively pursue our talent and companies, James E. Rooney, the president and CEO of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, said in a statement. But another trade group, the Massachusetts High Technology Council, said it was weighing a legal challenge to language in the bill governing tax refunds, the Boston Herald reported Thursday. The change to the law known as Chapter 62F requires refunds to be equally distributed to all state residents regardless of how much money they paid into the system. At least one Republican lawmaker told MassLive that he was similarly concerned about changes to the tax refund law. I think that individuals who overpay their taxes should be able to get their taxes back, state Sen. State Sen. Patrick OConnor, R-Plymouth/Norfolk, a yes vote on the bill, told MassLive on Wednesday. And of the [Chapter] 62F component. I thought the way that it worked last time worked really well. In a statement released last week, the business-friendly Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance also raised concerns about changes to the tax refund law, adding that this weeks debate should only be a start and taxpayers shouldnt have to wait another generation for any additional changes. The threat of a government shutdown is hanging over the heads of the American people. And if Congress doesnt pass a new spending bill by Sept. 30, that threat will turn into a reality. A government shutdown typically occurs when Congress fails to pass the spending bills or a continuing resolution that funds government agencies and programs. Without an approved budget or temporary funding measure, government agencies do not have the legal authority to spend money. This leads to disruptions in government services and the furloughing of non-essential government employees. But a government shutdown doesnt mean that all government programs slam to a halt. Heres some of what will stay open and be closed in the event of a shutdown. Yes, you can still go to the post office The United States Postal Service will still be open even if the government shuts down. The United States Postal Service does not cease operations during any Federal lapse in appropriations as it is funded through a permanent no-year appropriation, according to the agencys shutdown plan. The USPS wont be affected by a government shutdown as its an independent body that operates through its own internal budget rather than receiving tax dollars funded through Congress. Yes, you can still take a flight, but ... Although airports will still be open, there may be significant travel delays, according to Nerdwallet. Both TSA workers and air traffic controllers would still be expected to work even without pay if the government shuts down. But if the shutdown lasts too long, then the federal workers may refuse to work with a paycheck, which could lead to longer wait times for travelers, Nerdwallet reported. No, you wont be able to go to certain zoos or museums All Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo will be closed if the government shuts down. But private, state-owned or public museums and/or zoos will still be up and running. The Smithsonians National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, like all Smithsonian museums, receives federal funding. Thus, during a government shutdown, the Zoo and the rest of the Smithsonian museums must close to the public, the National Zoo said on its website. Will national parks be open? Its unclear Some national parks may be completely closed to visitors during a government shutdown. This is done to ensure the safety of visitors and protect park resources when there are insufficient staff and funds to maintain operations. However, a report from the Congressional Research Service national parks can accept donations to keep some park operations running even in the event of a government shutdown, Verfifythis.com reported. Yes, the DMV will still be open The DMV will still be open since the agency is funded by the state instead of the federal government. However, its essential to note that specific state policies and practices may vary, so its always a good idea to check with your local DMV office or visit their website for any updates or changes in their operating hours or services during a federal government shutdown or other emergencies. The Commonwealth Secretariat, the Government of Mauritius and the Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry jointly hosted a webinar this week to help companies promote and protect human rights within all business activity. Held on 25 September 2023, the webinar brought together business leaders from various sectors in Mauritius, including tourism, legal, financial services and technology. Participants were presented with an overview of the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights which were unanimously endorsed by the Human Rights Council as a set of guidelines to mitigate human rights violations associated with business activities. This in-depth presentation helped participants gain a better understanding of the impact that business activities can have on the human rights of workers, consumers, and communities. Opening the webinar, Avinash Teeluck, Minister of Arts and Cultural Heritage, acknowledged the significance of the online event taking place during the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Recognising the webinars importance, he said: This online event will enable a better understanding of the range of human rights issues related to business so that [enterprises] are in a better position to promote and protect human rights [in Mauritius]. Minister Teeluck further expressed his appreciation for the support provided by the Commonwealth Secretariats Human Rights Unit to the Government of Mauritius. During the webinar, participants engaged in interactive discussions to examine some of the most pressing human rights issues confronting companies, such as modern slavery, privacy and data protection, and environmental impacts. In response, they unpacked good practices, such as robust grievance mechanisms, to overcome these challenges. A recurring message throughout the discussion was the recognition that, while the integration of human rights is imperative for businesses, a key challenge remains a lack of awareness across industry sectors. In her remarks, Dr Shavana Haythornthwaite, Head of the Commonwealth Secretariats Human Rights Unit, spoke about the webinars overarching goal. She said the webinar aimed to not only raise awareness of the rapidly evolving landscape of business and human rights, but to also facilitate the seamless integration of human rights principles within policies and operations of businesses as an essential component. The webinar was jointly organised by the Commonwealth Secretariats Human Rights Unit, the Human Rights Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade of Mauritius, and the Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The Indian Business Council (IBC) was created in 2021, with the broader objectives to undertake its mission of Connecting economies through business while enhancing trade and business ties between India and Mauritius and using the latter as a strategic hub to build a network for businesses on the African continent. In line with its mandate, the IBC has been hosting a number of activities with primary focus to provide a platform for entrepreneurs and understand from each others journeys as also connect with business forums in India, Mauritius and Africa It is also bringing up discussion on the latest developments in the business world. The IBC in collaboration with the Indian High Commission is hosting a talk based on the theme Indias Economic Acceleration : Decoding Indias $5 trillion quest and opportunities for Africa to be delivered by the Member, Economic Advisory Council, Prime Minister of India, Mr. Sanjeev Sanyal in October 2023. Mr Sanyal is a prominent economist, historian, a prolific author, and a renowned speaker. He was the Principal Economic Adviser to the finance minister for five years till February 2022 and the Co-Chair of the G20s Framework Working Group. Prior to joining the government, he spent over two decades in financial markets and was Global Strategist and Managing Director at Deutsche Bank. He has also served on the Future City Sub-Committee of the Singapore government tasked with building a long-term vision for the city-state. Mr. Sanyal is an alumnus of the prestigious Shri Ram College of Commerce and also attended Oxford University as a Rhodes scholar where he was awarded the Eisenhower Fellowship in 2007 in recognition for his work on Urban dynamics. In 2010, he was named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum in Davos. Mr. Sanyal is also the author of several best-selling books including The Land of the Seven Rivers, The Ocean of Churn, India in the Age of Ideas, and The Indian Renaissance. He has also published over 200 articles as well as columns across leading national and international publications. Marriott International, Inc. announced the launch of Four Points Express by Sheraton, designed for the midscale segment. This new brand is a response to growing consumer demand for reliable yet affordable accommodation in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Consistent with the companys approach to meeting the needs of guests with regionally relevant lodging products for every stay purpose, the announcement follows the companys recent move into the affordable midscale (https://apo-opa.info/3PwYvYP) space with City Express by Marriott in the Caribbean and Latin America and the announcement of its plans for StudioRes in the U.S. & Canada. Four Points Express by Sheraton will offer value-conscious consumers a seamless hotel experience in a convenient location, with principles of reliability, simplicity and value in both the design and guest experience. Were delighted to be fuelling Marriott Internationals midscale growth with the launch of Four Points Express by Sheraton. This new brand has been thoughtfully researched, designed and localised to deliver midscale travelers the fundamentals of a stay that meets every trip purpose at the right price point, said Satya Anand, President, Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), Marriott International. Midscale is a resilient industry segment that currently represents almost 1.2 million rooms in EMEA, and 68% of those rooms are unbranded. Four Points Express will offer hotel owners the opportunity to capitalise on Marriott Internationals powerful distribution systems and award-winning Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, with an affordable conversion opportunity, offering competitive terms, and a light operational design model. Four Points Express will provide guests with the genuine, friendly service Marriott Internationals brands are renowned for. Midscale travelers are practical planners who prioritise elements that make both business and leisure trips effortless. The brand will treat these fundamentals with great importance by providing clean, comfortable rooms, breakfast and complimentary Wi-Fi, delivering an efficient and relaxing experience at an affordable price. Four Points Express hotels will offer design signatures that provide character and a recognisable, localised aesthetic. The brand has been tailored to meet guests needs and the efficient cost model is intended to provide an effective pricing strategy for owners and help drive meaningful growth for Marriott International. The company has already signed three deals across the UK and Turkiye and has signed letters of intent for future Four Points Express hotels in markets such as Poland, Belgium and the UK. The first UK hotel is slated to open in a prime location in Central London less than 500 metres from Euston Station and one kilometre from Kings Cross and St Pancras International. Four Points Express by Sheraton London Euston is expected to open in 2024 with 201 guest rooms following a significant renovation of the current property. The hotel will offer an ideal location for tech company headquarters in Kings Cross, the British Museum and easy access to Londons shopping and theatre districts, as well as many tourist sites. In Turkiye, two Four Points Express hotels have been signed in Antalya and Bursa. Four Points Express by Sheraton Antalya Lara plans to offer 52 guest rooms upon its anticipated conversion in late 2023. The neighbourhood of Caglayan has fantastic connections to both the city centre and airport while benefiting from close proximity to the seaside. In Bursa, Four Points Express by Sheraton Bursa Nilufer will offer guests a convenient location close to the highway that connects Bursa, Istanbul and Izmir. Four Points Express will be part of the companys award-winning Marriott Bonvoy loyalty platform with over 186 million members. It will leverage Marriotts strong digital platforms like Marriott.com and the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app, to generate direct bookings. An Irish TikTok star living in Australia had a hilarious - and terrifying - brush with a huge spider in his kitchen earlier this week. Offaly native Shane Gallagher, better known as the Digger Dad on TikTok, shared a video of his reaction to the unwanted home invader crawling across his kitchen presses. The video has now amassed 140,000 views. Shane has over 180,000 followers on the platform. He mostly shares videos from his digger where he sometimes sings and performs skits. He had a very Irish reaction to the spider as he told his son to "get away from that thing, look at the size of it." "You're mad in the head," he added as he called his wife to come get rid of it because "she's Australian." Calling to his wife, he proclaimed in a very Irish way that "there is a Jaysus huge spider in this kitchen, will you get rid of him!?" View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shane (@thediggerdad) He adds: "I'll fight any man that comes in here, but if that thing goes at you, you're on your own." Shane later said: "Only for you, we would have set fire to this house." According to his wife, it was a "tiny spider" but we're not so sure about that. A MAJORITY of club delegates voted to postpone a vote on a proposal to revamp the Mayo GAA Senior Leagues for next year at a meeting of the County Board on Wednesday night. It had been expected that delegates would vote to rubber-stamp a proposal put forward by Mayo GAA's CCC, following discussions with club representatives at a number of previous meetings, that would see 20 teams (made up of two groups of ten teams) playing Division 1 league football in 2024. However, after a lengthy discussion, most delegates in the room voted to postpone any decision until next month by which time they hope to have debated the proposal with their club executives. Kiltimagh delegate Seamus Corry cautioned against a vote being taken on the proposal being put forward on a number of grounds, including his own clubs current situation. Kiltimagh were relegated from Division 1 this season and lost all three of their Intermediate championship group games after a mass exodus of players from their squad. We find ourselves, as most clubs know, in a very difficult situation this year, said Corry. Were not looking for sympathy here, by any manner or means, lots of clubs might find themselves in a similar situation. But we find ourselves in a situation where we got hammered in every game in Division 1 this year and we also got beaten pretty heavily in our championship matches. We now find ourselves, under this proposal, going to be playing Division 1 football again next year. It makes a mockery of the 2023 league in so far as that the teams that didnt perform, and werent competitive like our own club, and got deservedly relegated, are now going to be back again playing in Division 1 and will not be competitive.. And Ill probably be here this time next year saying to ye why were not able to fulfil fixtures. We agree with the idea of ten teams [in each section], nine games makes perfect sense and we support that. But its how you get there, he added. You dont get there by bringing up four teams from Division 2 straight away and leaving the two teams that got relegated [in Division 1]. It means that we may as well not have played the 2023 league. I dont know what the big rush is with this. I understand its been out there, but Im not sure that everybody understands fully what were doing. With this were going to have 20 teams in Division 1, I remember one time when division one was a league that everybody aspired to get up to. I would urge delegates, theres no rush with this. Lets make sure that we know what were voting for here because it will destroy some of the smaller clubs here, like mine. I wonder do people actually realise what were voting for? Central Council delegate Paddy McNicholas also spoke on the issue. We gave a commitment to clubs at the start of the year in relation to promotion/relegation and we should stand by it. Or else clubs wont trust us again. It also became apparent that some delegates were unsure about the finer details of the proposal that was to be voted on, despite the fact that a breakdown of the format had been circulated to clubs on August 11 last. This should have been debated and discussed by clubs, said South Mayo Board chairman, Donal Walsh. I think a decision should be made and we move on. Walshs proposal to have a vote on the night faced a counter-proposal from Connacht GAA delegate, Paul Cunnane, who also spoke on the subject. After a show of hands, the decision was taken to postpone a vote until next months meeting. Its very disappointing from a CCC point of view, remarked Mayo GAA secretary, Ronan Kirrane. Its clear that the proposal wasnt discussed at a lot of clubs. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Armenia blatantly lies about the so-called 'ethnic cleansing' of Armenian residents in Karabakh, but in fact, Azerbaijan has proposed many times and continues to offer the creation of better conditions for the living of Armenians on its territory, the Chairman of the Ukrainian Congress of Azerbaijan Public Association and veteran of the first Karabakh war, Yuri Osadchenko, told Trend. "Armenians in the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan, just like representatives of other ethnic groups in Azerbaijan, are citizens of the country, and Azerbaijan cares for all its residents. As we can see, Azerbaijan has been providing assistance to the Armenian population of the Karabakh region for several days nowhumanitarian aid, food, and fuel," Osadchenko said. "Azerbaijan considers them its own residents. Azerbaijan does not force them to leave the country, as some media outlets and certain individuals on social media claim. On the contrary, the country offers them to stay, acquire Azerbaijani citizenship, and continue living here." He noted that it is the military junta that is forcing the Armenian population to leave the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan. "In video interviews on television channels and video materials on social media, Armenians leaving the Karabakh region themselves confirm that they are being compelled to leave by this military junta. Even in such cases, Azerbaijan provides them with all possible support, including fuel for relocation and food. Video materials have shown Azerbaijani police officers handing them water and food. So, what kind of 'ethnic cleansing' can be talked about here?" the veteran pointed out. He emphasized that Azerbaijan is home to many ethnic groups of various religious backgrounds. "Armenians can also become part of this society and live happily here by acquiring citizenship and following the country's laws. Azerbaijan is an example of multiculturalism in the world, and accusing the country of so-called 'ethnic cleansing' is a baseless accusation," he noted. "We all know very well that the purpose of these accusations is something else. Armenians are trying to demonize Azerbaijan, damage its international image, and persuade some countries to allocate funds for the maintenance of so-called 'Armenian refugees', while in reality, these funds would be spent on completely different purposes," Osadchenko added. In order to ensure the provisions of the Trilateral Statement [signed by Azerbaijani, Armenian and Russian leaders following the 2020 second Karabakh war], to stop large-scale provocations in the Karabakh economic region, to disarm and withdraw formations of the Armenian armed forces from the territories of Azerbaijan, to neutralize their military infrastructure, to ensure the safety of the peaceful population returning to the territories liberated from occupation, civil servants involved in construction and reconstruction work, and Azerbaijan's military personnel, as well as to restore the constitutional order of the Republic of Azerbaijan, anti-terrorist measures have been conducted in the region. Within the framework of the activities, positions of Armenian armed forces formations, their long-term firing points, as well as military means and military facilities, were disrupted using high-precision weapons in the front line and in depth. Civilians and civilian infrastructure were not targets, only legitimate military targets were disabled. Taking into account the appeal of the representatives of the Armenian residents of Karabakh, received through the Russian peacekeeping contingent [temporarily stationed in Azerbaijan under the trilateral statement], an agreement was reached on the suspension of anti-terrorist activities of local nature on September 20, 2023, at 13:00 (GMT+4) under the following conditions: the Armenian armed forces formations and Armenian illegal armed formations located in Azerbaijan's Karabakh region shall lay down their weapons, leave their combat positions and military posts, and fully disarm. The units of the armed forces of Armenia shall leave the territory of Azerbaijan, and the Armenian illegal armed formations shall be disbanded. Ramin Mammadov, responsible for contacts with the Armenian residents of Karabakh, held a regular meeting with representatives of the Armenian residents of Karabakh in the town of Khojaly on September 25, 2023. At the meeting, which took place in a constructive atmosphere, satisfaction was expressed with the actions taken to resolve the issues discussed on September 21 in Yevlakh, in particular the short-term delivery of humanitarian aid, fuel, and the restoration of electricity supply. SOLICITORS in Co Mayo have called on the Government to 'invest appropriately' in the criminal legal aid system and prevent a one-day strike by barristers. Criminal barristers across the country are due to withdraw their services for one day on Tuesday, October 3 as part of a major escalation of the Council of the Bar of Ireland's campaign for fee restoration. The dispute is over the fees paid to barristers by the Director of Public Prosecutions, and under the Legal Aid scheme which were cut in the wake of the financial crisis in 2008. Criminal barristers argue that they have suffered a pay cut, in real terms, of more than 40 percent in the last 20 years. The Mayo Solicitors Bar Association backed the strike on Tuesday and in a statement called on the Government to try to resolve the issues relating to criminal legal aid. Catherine Bourke, President of the Mayo Solicitors Bar Association (MSBA) stated that the rates in legal aid are 20 years old and do not represent the true cost of providing legal services to clients. Demand for solicitors providing services to the States criminal legal aid system is increasing. However, many practitioners are choosing to leave the profession to work in other areas of law or to work for the State, because the remuneration provided in this area is not commensurate with the demands of the role. The lack of investment by Government is creating an unviable criminal legal aid system with clear consequences for access to justice. Legal aid deserts are already emerging in some parts of the country where there may only be one solicitor available to take legal aid cases, or in in some cases none at all. In this context, the case for restoration of criminal legal aid fees is irrefutable, she stated. The Bar of Ireland said that it had engaged with consecutive Governments on the issue, but that no progress had been made 'despite barristers delivering at least the same level of reform and flexibility delivered by other professional groups for whom cuts have been reversed'. Ms Bourke said that criminal legal aid work is the only part of the public sector not to have pay cuts reinstated and called on the Government to invest appropriately. The MSBA believes in the rule of law and the effective and fair administration of justice. Solicitors who undertake work on behalf of the State in the defence of their clients have a critical role to play in the administration of justice and must be paid a fair rate for the work that they do. We call on the Government to invest appropriately in the criminal legal aid system and to act urgently to prevent the withdrawal of legal services on October 3 next, she concluded. In April 2022, this page captured Carrigskeewaun with the help of poet, Michael Longley. Sadly, his dear friend and neighbour, Michael Viney, left us all bereft when he died on May 30 this year. This week, in Tracing Tallavbaun I would like to acknowledge Michael Vineys remarkable literary legacy from his one thorn-edged acre of Thallabawn and I respectfully dedicate this article in his memory. There is no v in the Irish language. The tallav in Tallavbaun is an anglicisation of the Irish word Talamh meaning land or ground. In 1838, John ODonovan was responsible for spelling the name of this townland, located about 14km from Louisburgh, as Tallavbaun. The second syllable, baun, is of course the Irish word ban, usually translated as white, but in this case it may also mean fallow, lea, sandy or grass land. In recent times, it is more often spelt Thallabawn. There was another tiny townland located to the south of Tallavbaun, named Tallavbaun Island. However, its 30 acres were eroded away in the 1970s(?). It was a mound in the form of a cone, covered with seaweed. A photograph of the island taken in the 1960s is held by the Placenames Branch. It is marked on the Griffiths Valuations map (1847-1864) and appears to have been located south of the channel that flows through the big beach, across from Templedoomore (Teampall Dhuach Mhor, Church of the Big Sandbank), Graveyard. When the Vineys, Michael and Ethna, and their daughter, Michele, settled here in 1977, they could be forgiven for not knowing precisely where they were. The then popular Ordnance Survey half-inch-to-one-mile map, sheet number 10, entitled Connemara, does not show Thallabawn at all. When the 1:50,000 (two-centimetres-to-one-kilometre) Discovery Series came along 20 years later, the townland name appears as Tallavbaun. There is much more detail given on the metric maps than on the original imperial editions, for example, the four main rocks seen offshore: Carricklahan, An Charraig Leathan, The Broad Rock; Carricknashinnagh, Carraig na Sionnach , Rock of the Foxes; Carrickmoylan, Moylans Rock and (a second) Carricklahan. The last one may have been mistaken for Carrickcathleen, Carraig Chaitlin, Caitlins Rock. Carrickmoylan, is translated as Carraig Mhaolain by Fiachra Mac Gabhann, meaning (?)Bare Rock and by John ODonovan (1838) as Carraig Maolain Mullans Rock. The river running through Thallabawn and cutting a huge channel down on the beach that can be difficult to cross, is called the Owenadornaun, Abhainn na dTornan, River of the Round Stones. The name is derived from the Irish word, dornan, meaning fistful or handful, an indication that the stones found in the river were all handful-sized or less. John ODonovan described its course very well in 1838: This river rises south of Lough Cunnel becomes the north-west boundary of Kinnakillew, Cloonaghmannagh and Corragaun townlands It falls into the sea south of Templedoomore Graveyard. Michael would have cited all these local placenames at various times over his 46 years writing the wonderful Another Life column every Saturday in the Irish Times. Logainmneacha were not his forte, and when I once suggested to Ethna and Michael that it would be good to document them, they were very encouraging and admitted they would prefer to leave the task to someone else. Take Lough Cunnel, for example. Fiachra Mac Gabhann translates this lake name as Loch Coinnile, Lake of the Stubble or Bluebells, while in 1838, ODonovan opted for Lake of the Candles, derived from coinneal, the Irish for candle. The three neighbouring townlands cited in the paragraph taken from the Ordnance Survey Namebooks, have the following meanings: Kinakillew is Cionn na Coilleadh, (?)High Ground of the Wood, Cloonaghmannagh is Cluanach Meanach, Middle Place of Meadows, and Corragaun is An Carragan, The Place of Rocks. Michael was a prolific author and his output was prodigious. Together with Ethna, he produced over eight books, contributed to many others, wrote papers and reviews and penned his weekly column non-stop for over 46 years. He also co-produced documentaries for RTE and he collaborated with yet another neighbour, naturalist David Cabot, on several wildlife expeditions and scientific studies. In addition to all this, he was very encouraging and supportive to aspiring young writers and those new to nature subjects, including the author of this piece. Notably, during my MA in Irish Studies, themed Rewilding Ireland and using Wild Nephin National Park as a case study, Michael took time out of his busy schedule to review my thesis and offer some helpful comments. A new publication from Artisan House Publications (Connemara), entitled Michael Vineys Natural World, will be launched in Books at One, Louisburgh, this Sunday, October 1, by poet Geraldine Mitchell. Dr John OCallaghan is a mountain walk leader who has organised and led expeditions both at home and abroad. He has served on the board of Mountaineering Ireland and is currently on the Irish Uplands Forum board. OVER one hundred people braved wet weather by taking to the streets of Castlebar to demonstrate against the 'crisis' facing Mayo childcare providers this afternoon (Thursday). Childcare facility owners, childcare workers, parents and public representatives all attended the protest outside Mayo County Councils offices at the Mall before marching through the town towards Deputy Alan Dillons constituency office. The protest was addressed by Frank Keane, owner of Bright Beginnings in Ballinrobe, Elaine Dunne, Chairperson of the Federation of Early Childhood Providers, Lisa OBoyle, a creche owner from Crossmolina, and David Donoghue, who works in the childcare sector. Mr Keane told the crowd mainly composed of women that funding for childcare was not being received where it was needed most. Last year, the government allocated a record 221 million to Core Funding, the scheme at the centre of the long-running dispute between the government and childcare providers. Many childcare providers have claimed the government funding does not match their increasing running costs. By the time the people on the ground get that money, there have been so many people that have picked out of it that the pittance is left for the ones that matter most, he said. If we cannot get the money how on earth are we supposed to give a decent wage to the people that matter most, who are the people on the ground, he later added. Lisa O'Boyle, a childcare provider from Crossmolina, addressing the protest at the Mall, Castlebar. Also pictured are Fianna Fail county councillor Blackie Gavin (left) and Elaine Dunne (right) Chairperson of the Federation of Early Childhood Providers. Speakers also hit out at Minister for Children Roderic OGormans commenting that it was unwarranted for childcare providers to protest outside the Dail during the week. Pay and conditions for childcare workers with degrees were also highlighted, with Mr Keane stating that many make little more than minimum wage. Lisa OBoyle described Minister OGormans claims about additional funding for childcare as PR spin. He has given millions to huge services where the owner doesnt work there, where it is a business, where they do not know their children, where they do not care about their children with additional needs, where they wouldnt be able to tell them one name of a child, or one problem of a child, she said. Some of the crowd who attend the protest against the government's childcare policies at The Mall, Castlebar, on September 28 2023 The protest was also attended by Castlebar Municipal District councillors Donna Sheridan (Fine Gael), Blackie Gavin (Fianna Fail), Martin McLoughlin (Fianna Fail), Michael Kilcoyne (Independent) and Al McDonnell (Fianna Fail), as well as Ballina-based councillor Mark Duffy (Independent). David Donoghue, a childcare worker, called on elected representatives to act to address the situation. You are all part of the problem, he said. Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon issued a statement on the demonstrations where he acknowledged the concerns of childcare providers, saying that the Core Funding model was not perfect and more needs to be done in this regard. We will have further coverage of the gathering in Tuesdays print edition of The Mayo News. Mayo TD Alan Dillon has issued a plea to the Minister for Health and to the head of HSE Community Health Care West to retain the GP service in Lahardane. The community of Lahardane will be left without a GP service from October 1 with the closure of the Adergoole Medical Centre. The current GP, Dr Enda Loftus is to take up a position as a GP in Crossmolina and despite advertising the vacant position on two occasions, the HSE have been unable to fill the position. Earlier this week, the HSE confirmed that a locum doctor will not be replacing Dr Loftus in Lahardane and patients will have to avail of a GP in Crossmolina which is 10km away. Speaking in Dail Eireann today, Deputy Alan Dillon raised the matter of the GP service during questions to Tanaiste, Micheal Martin. The Fine Gael TD outlined the lack of HSE consultation and plans for the replacement of Dr Loftus, who has been in Lahardane since 2019. He noted this is the third area of Mayo where the HSE have advertised vacancies for a general practitioner after Achill and Charlestown. The Lahardane and Bofeenaun residents are set to lose their GP next weekend in a move which affects 1,100 medical card holders, without them having any say in the process. Although we understand the HSE are trying to recruit more doctors, the ongoing empty GP post in Lahardane is a critical issue. The idea of merging the local Adergoole Medical Centre with Crossmolina is causing a lot of fear amongst the community, and rightly so. I am firm on making the HSE answerable to keep a GP service in Lahardane, I would suggest a locum doctor be put in place immediately and split their time between Adergoole and Crossmolina healthcare settings, while settling in Lahardane until a permanent GP post is appointed, he said. Deputy Dillon requested that the Tanaiste speak to Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly, about this serious issue quickly. We need to ensure that we have fair healthcare for all and that Lahardane needs fast action now, Deputy Dillon said. In response to Deputy Dillons questions, Minister Martin replied that sometimes the HSE will re-advertise a position. Sometimes these issues evolve through demographic issues and challenges with General Practice in rural Ireland and in rural areas more particularly. I will ask Minister Donnelly to talk to the agency. I presume the HSE are very much alive to this issue with a view to trying to get it resolved but I will talk to the Minister in respect of it, the Tanaiste replied. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. French senator Nathalie Goulet expressed hope to see Azerbaijan's Karabakh, Trend reports. "Now I will see Karabakh not with my heart, but with my own eyes," Goulet said on X (Twitter), adding that "Karabakh is Azerbaijan." Goulet has been supportive of Azerbaijan's stance on Karabakh issue, she visited the country, and has been on the liberated territories as well. In order to ensure the provisions of the Trilateral Statement [signed by Azerbaijani, Armenian and Russian leaders following the 2020 second Karabakh war], to stop large-scale provocations in the Karabakh economic region, to disarm and withdraw formations of the Armenian armed forces from the territories of Azerbaijan, to neutralize their military infrastructure, to ensure the safety of the peaceful population returning to the territories liberated from occupation, civil servants involved in construction and reconstruction work, and Azerbaijan's military personnel, as well as to restore the constitutional order of the Republic of Azerbaijan, anti-terrorist measures have been conducted in the region. Taking into account the appeal of the representatives of the Armenian residents of Karabakh, received through the Russian peacekeeping contingent [temporarily stationed in Azerbaijan under the trilateral statement], an agreement was reached on the suspension of anti-terrorist activities of local nature on September 20, 2023, at 13:00 (GMT+4) under the following conditions: the Armenian armed forces formations and Armenian illegal armed formations located in Azerbaijan's Karabakh region shall lay down their weapons, leave their combat positions and military posts, and fully disarm. The units of the armed forces of Armenia shall leave the territory of Azerbaijan, and the Armenian illegal armed formations shall be disbanded. On September 21, 2023, Ramin Mammadov, responsible for contacts with the Armenian residents of Karabakh, met with the residents of Armenia in Yevlakh to discuss social and humanitarian problems, in particular the need for fuel and food aid. Since then, Azerbaijan has provided fuel for heating systems, schools, kindergartens, emergency services and fire departments, as well as humanitarian aid to support the residents of Karabakh. The separatists in the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan announced their self-dissolution today. Biomaterial Coating Market Is Estimated To Witness High Growth Owing To Innovations in Healthcare and Increasing Demand for Medical Implants The Biomaterial Coating Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 14.6 billion in 2022 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 12.4% over the forecast period 2023-2030, as highlighted in a new report published by Coherent Market Insights. Ask Us to Get Your Sample Copy Of The Report, Covering TOC and Regional Analysis @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/249 Top Companies Associated With The Biomaterial Coating Market Report Are: Wright Medical Group N.V., Royal DSM (Koninklijke DSM N.V.), Zimmer Biomet, Corbion (CSM N.V.), Bayer AG, Covalon Technologies Ltd., Carpenter Technology Corporation (CRS Holdings Inc.), Evonik Industries AG, BASF SE, CAM Bioceramics BV, Invibio, Berkeley Advanced Biomaterials, Inc. and Collagen Matrix, Inc. Market Overview: Biomaterial coatings are materials applied to implants or medical devices to enhance their functionality and biocompatibility. These coatings can be used in various applications, such as orthopedics, dental, cardiovascular, and ophthalmic surgeries. The demand for biomaterial coatings has been increasing due to the growing geriatric population, rising prevalence of chronic diseases, and advancements in healthcare technologies. These coatings help improve the performance of medical implants, reduce the risk of infections, and facilitate better integration with the patients body. Moreover, the increasing awareness about the benefits of these coatings among healthcare professionals and patients is further propelling market growth. Market Dynamics: The biomaterial coating market is driven by two main factors: innovations in healthcare and the increasing demand for medical implants. Innovations in healthcare, such as the development of bioactive coatings and antimicrobial coatings, are contributing to the growth of the market. These coatings offer various advantages, such as improved implant stability, reduced infection rates, and enhanced patient outcomes. Additionally, the growing demand for medical implants, such as dental implants and joint replacements, is fueling market growth. The rise in the geriatric population and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, such as osteoarthritis and cardiovascular diseases, are driving the demand for medical implants, thereby boosting the biomaterial coating market. Overall, these drivers are expected to continue to propel the market over the forecast period. Biomaterial coating market Segmentation: By Type of Material Metallic Polymers Ceramic Natural Biomaterials By Application Orthopedic Cardiovascular Plastic Surgery Dental Wound Healing Tissue Engineering Neurological Others Gastrointestinal Bariatric Surgery Urinary Drug Delivery Systems Market drivers: Growing demand for biomaterial coatings in medical devices: Biomaterial coatings play a crucial role in enhancing the performance and functionality of medical devices. The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, coupled with the rising aging population, has led to the growing demand for advanced medical devices. Biomaterial coatings offer several benefits, such as reduced infection rates, improved biocompatibility, and enhanced surface properties, which make them essential for medical applications. The need for innovative and cost-effective medical devices, along with the requirement for personalized medicine, further drives the demand for biomaterial coatings. Technological advancements in biomaterial coatings: The market for biomaterial coatings is experiencing significant technological advancements, which are driving its growth. Advancements in nanotechnology have led to the development of nanostructured coatings, which offer improved biocompatibility, increased corrosion resistance, and better drug delivery capabilities. The emergence of bioactive coatings, such as hydroxyapatite and bioactive glasses, has revolutionized the biomaterial coating market by enabling osseointegration and bone regeneration. The development of antimicrobial coatings, which help prevent infections and reduce the risk of implant failure, is another technological advancement driving the market growth. We Offer Customized Report, Click @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-customization/249 Market restraints: Stringent regulatory requirements: The biomaterial coating market is subject to strict regulatory requirements, which pose significant challenges for market players. Coatings used in medical devices must comply with various regulations and standards, such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines. The regulatory approval process can be time-consuming and expensive, which hampers the market growth. Stringent regulations also pose a barrier to entry for new players, as they need to invest in extensive testing and validation procedures to ensure compliance. High costs associated with biomaterial coatings: The high costs associated with biomaterial coatings act as a restraint for the market. The production of biomaterial coatings involves complex manufacturing processes and the use of expensive raw materials. Additionally, the testing and validation procedures required to meet regulatory standards add to the overall cost. The high costs of biomaterial coatings discourage their adoption, particularly in developing countries with limited healthcare budgets. Manufacturers need to focus on developing cost-effective solutions without compromising on the quality and performance of the coatings to overcome this restraint. Table of Contents with Major Points: Executive Summary Introduction Key Findings Recommendations Definitions and Assumptions Executive Summary Market Overview Definition of Biomaterial Coating Market Market Dynamics Drivers Restraints Opportunities Trends and Developments Key Insights Key Emerging Trends Key Developments Mergers and Acquisition New Product Launches and Collaboration Partnership and Joint Venture Latest Technological Advancements Insights on Regulatory Scenario Porters Five Forces Analysis Qualitative Insights Impact of COVID-19 on Global Biomaterial Coating Market Supply Chain Challenges Steps taken by Government/Companies to overcome this impact Potential opportunities due to COVID-19 outbreak Conclusion Appendix Data Sources Abbreviations Disclaimer TOC Continued! In conclusion, the biomaterial coating market is driven by the growing demand for biomaterial coatings in medical devices and technological advancements in the field. The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and the need for innovative medical devices propel the demand for biomaterial coatings. Technological advancements, such as nanostructured coatings, bioactive coatings, and antimicrobial coatings, further contribute to the market growth. However, the market is restrained by stringent regulatory requirements and high costs associated with biomaterial coatings. Stringent regulations and lengthy approval processes pose challenges for market players, while high production costs and testing procedures limit the adoption of biomaterial coatings, especially in developing countries. Overcoming these restraints necessitates a focus on developing cost-effective solutions and streamlining regulatory processes. Despite these challenges, the biomaterial coating market is poised for significant growth due to its vital role in improving the performance and biocompatibility of medical devices. Why Choose Coherent Market Insights? Identified business opportunities Our market research report can be used to analyze potential markets and new products. It can give information about customer needs, preferences, and attitudes. Also, it compare products and services. A clear understanding of your customers A market report gives companys marketing department an in-depth picture about customers needs and wants. This knowledge can be used to improve products, prices, and advertising. Clear data-driven insights Our Market research encompasses a wide range of activities, from determining market size and segment to forecasting demand, and from identifying competitors to monitoring pricing. All of these are quantified and measurable which means that gives you a clear path for building unique decisions based on numbers. Purchase This Premium Report And Get Up To 25 % Off @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/buy-now/249 Explore More Related Insights: Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment Market Fundus Camera Market Orthobiologics Market Urinary Catheters Market Acne Medication Market Lactobacillus Acidophilus Probiotic Market High Intensity Focused Ultrasound Market Surgical Drills Market U.S. Corporate Wellness Market Circulating Cell-Free Tumor DNA Market Smart Insulin Pen Market Medical Nutrition Market Women Health App Market Veterinary Medicine Market Third Generation Sequencing Market BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan Mikayil Jabbarov has held a meeting with Mohammad Abdullah Abunayyan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of ACWA Power, Trend reports. During the meeting, the sides engaged in discussions on several key areas of cooperation between the company and Azerbaijan, the minister wrote on his page on X (Twitter). For instance, the parties reviewed wind power plant and sea water desalination projects currently underway in Azerbaijan, as well as assessed the effectiveness of utilizing alternative energy sources. The sides also explored the potential for the execution of other projects in the field of green energy in Azerbaijan. Meanwhile, cooperation is currently underway with Saudi Arabic ACWA Power company on the construction of the Khizi-Absheron wind farm with a capacity of 240 MW in Azerbaijan. On February 3, 2023, the sides agreed to create wind farms with a total capacity of 2.5 GW and energy storage systems. On the same day, an agreement envisaged for the implementation of a 1.5 GW offshore wind power project in Azerbaijan was signed as well. The global HIV diagnostics test market is estimated to be valued at US$ 4,263.62 million in 2022 and expected to reach US$ 8,487.17 million by 2030, witnessing a CAGR of 9.0% over the forecast period (2022-2030). HIV weakens the immune system. Untreated HIV affects CD4 cells, which eventually gets deteriorate. As more CD4 cells are lost to HIV, the body becomes more vulnerable to contracting other illnesses and cancers. Blood tests most frequently are used for HIV diagnoses. These tests search for the virus-specific antibodies that the body produces to combat the virus. Even though it might take the body anywhere from six weeks to a year to acquire antibodies to the virus, anyone exposed to it should get tested every once. Depending on the initial period of exposure, more tests might be required. Patients with clinical signs and symptoms of acute or chronic infection and those who may have been exposed to HIV should undergo HIV testing to be diagnosed with the virus. Ask For A Sample Copy Report @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/422 Some of the Top Players in HIV Diagnostics Test Market: Abbott, Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., Hologic, Inc., Siemens Healthineers, Roche AG, Beckman Coulter Inc., OraSure Technologies, Inc., Becton, Dickinson and Company, Merck KGaA, Chembio Diagnostic Systems, Inc., Zyomyx Incorporation, Bristol Myers Squibb, Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, QIAGEN N.V., and ViiV Healthcare Ltd. The HIV Diagnostics Test Market involves the diagnosis and monitoring of HIV infection in individuals. These tests play a crucial role in identifying the presence of HIV antibodies or antigens in the blood, saliva, or urine samples of affected individuals. The rising prevalence of HIV/AIDS, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, is driving the demand for accurate and efficient diagnosis of the infection. HIV diagnostics tests include rapid tests, ELISA assays, nucleic acid tests, and Western blot tests. These tests are used in various settings such as hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, blood banks, and home care settings. They aid in disease management, prevention of mother-to-child transmission, and screening of blood and organ donations. Detailed Segmentation: Global HIV Diagnostics Test Market, By Test Type: Screening Third Generation (Antibody Test) Laboratory-based Point-of-Care Fourth Generation (Antibody Test) Laboratory-based Point-of-Care Others Differentiation & Confirmation Test Monitoring Test CD4 Test Viral Load Tests Market Dynamics: Drivers Rise in the prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases The number of infected people is still rising throughout many decades of the HIV pandemic. The socioeconomic factors that underlie this ongoing rise also point to a failure in preventative efforts. There are more than 20 million estimated new instances of sexually transmitted diseases in the United States each year, and the rates are rising despite though many of these infections are avoidable. Moreover, more than 1.2 million HIV-positive people are living in the U.S. Efforts to promote sexually transmitted diseases testing, and screening can determine a persons risk of contracting them and assist those who already have one in receiving treatment, improving their health and reducing the likelihood that HIV will spread to others. In 2021, there were about 38.4 million HIV-positive individuals worldwide. Almost 54% of these were women and girls. Buy Now and Get a Discount on this Report @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/buy-now/422 Restraints: Complexity in the testing window period The window period is one of the most significant issues with HIV testing. A negative test result can indicate that a person has recently become HIV-positive. The window of testing is crucial in determining the actual results of the person. Thus, this complexity hampers the growth of the HIV diagnosis market. Opportunities: Rising initiatives by global agencies for curbing the cases One of the most critical public health issues in the world is HIV. Thus there is an international commitment to halting new HIV infections and providing access to treatment for HIV to everyone around the globe. WHO advises getting tested for HIV for everyone who may be at risk. In the early stages of the crisis, the World Bank pioneered worldwide finance for HIV/AIDS and has given US$4.6 billion since 1989 for initiatives connected to the disease. Around 7 million people have been tested for HIV due to funding from the Bank, specifically through the International Development Association, for 1,500 counselling and testing facilities. Table of Contents with Major Points: Executive Summary Introduction Key Findings Recommendations Definitions and Assumptions Executive Summary Market Overview Definition of HIV Diagnostics Test Market Market Dynamics Drivers Restraints Opportunities Trends and Developments Key Insights Key Emerging Trends Key Developments Mergers and Acquisition New Product Launches and Collaboration Partnership and Joint Venture Latest Technological Advancements Insights on Regulatory Scenario Porters Five Forces Analysis Qualitative Insights Impact of COVID-19 on Global HIV Diagnostics Test Market Supply Chain Challenges Steps taken by Government/Companies to overcome this impact Potential opportunities due to COVID-19 outbreak Conclusion Appendix Data Sources Abbreviations Disclaimer TOC Continued! Customize Your Report Now @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-customization/422 Check Out More Report: LATAM Fabry Disease Market Skin Fibrosis Treatment Market Scopolamine API Market Digital Biomanufacturing Market Pulmonary Surfactant Market Preclinical Assets Market Dermatomyositis Drug Market China Mesalazine Market Dry Eye Disease Market Glycopeptide Antibiotics Market by Adam Buckman , Featured Columnist, September 27, 2023 Two cop shows currently on the air both feature college professors with unorthodox and uncanny powers of deduction who are called upon by local law enforcement to apply their talents to solving tough cases. In Professor T, a British import now airing Sundays on PBS, the title character -- Prof. Jasper Tempest (Ben Miller, above photo, left) -- is a Cambridge professor of criminology with OCD. In The Irrational, which premiered Monday on NBC, Jesse L. Martin (above right) stars as Alec Mercer, a renowned professor of behavioral psychology who teaches at Wylton University (a fictional college) somewhere in Virginia. They are each highly skilled at observing the character traits of murder suspects to determine whether these persons of interest are psychologically equipped to kill. advertisement advertisement Then, in opposition to the conclusions reached by law enforcement agencies that have hired them as consultants, they disqualify the suspects the police and FBI are holding in their murder cases. Profs. Tempest and Mercer are both iconoclasts with emotional baggage of their own. Prof. Mercer suffers from PTSD stemming from a bombing in which he was the only survivor. His scars are both emotional and physical; the right side of his face is disfigured. The fastidious Prof. T is incapable of intimacy with anyone, either physical or emotional. He is obsessive-compulsive and is seen constantly straightening objects on his desk and other places. He is also germophobic, and always seen wearing rubber surgical gloves wherever he goes. Each of these professors has uncertain relationships with someone else in their lives. For Prof. T, it is his elderly mother, Adelaide, played by veteran English actress Frances De La Tour. In the show, the relationship between mother and son is troubled. She has spent a lifetime managing her sons peculiarities and somewhere along the line, she has come to accept him and his idiosyncrasies, while also keeping him at arms length. Professor T started its second season on PBS September 3 (running through October 15). The new episodes have him seeking the help of a therapist for the very first time, although she finds him to be a difficult patient. For Prof. Mercer, the relationship that preoccupies him the most is with his ex-wife Marisa (Maahra Hill), who just happens to be an FBI agent who is seen working the same cases as he. In the show, they dont spar, and seem to enjoy a cordial relationship. The reason they split up was not entirely clear in the premiere episode of The Irrational, but it seems to have something to do with his issues, including his PTSD and his dedication to his work, which he puts ahead of everything else. The two professors are just the latest such characters in fiction and films with extraordinary powers of deduction -- a lineage that stretches back at least to Sherlock Holmes, who first appeared in 1887. As for Prof. Ts OCD, we have seen that before too, in Monk, where the malady was portrayed in a manner that was so lighthearted that the show was nominated for 15 comedy Emmys during its first run from 2002 to 2009. By contrast, Professor T is no comedy. But it is one of the best shows you can watch on TV right now. by Erik Oster , September 27, 2023 In partnership with the Coca-Cola company, Molson Coors brewed up a new product to round out its lineup of hard teas. Peace Hard Tea, an alcoholic adaptation of the Coca-Cola-owned Peace Iced Tea brand, rolls onto convenience and retail store shelves across the Southeast this month, with an initial lineup of three flavors of 5% ABV hard tea sold in 24-ounce cans: Freedom of Peach, More Peace More Lemon, and Really Really Razzy. Spend a little more time offline and make living life your full-time job. Peace Hard Tea is here for when you buck the norms that kill fun, Joy Ghosh, vice president of Molson Coors flavored malt beverages, ready-to-drink, and hard seltzer Above Premium Flavor department said in a statement that hints at the products target demographic and marketing messaging. According to Molson Coors Beer & Beyond blog, the company is the number two maker of hard teas in the country, and is seeking to further fuel growth in a market segment that grew 30% year-over-year to $1.3 billion, according to Circana. advertisement advertisement Peace Hard Tea fills out MolsonCoors existing hard tea lineup alongside its Arnold Palmer Spiked brand. MolsonCoors also revealed that the Arnold Palmer brand will revise its Now Thats Well Played campaign next year, including new TV ads, and introduce new strawberry and mango flavors as part of a variety pack. Peace Hard Teas initial release in the Southeast represents part of a regional marketing strategy to fuel the companys growth ambitions, as it markets its Arnold Palmer Spiked brand, which the company claims has seen five years of growth, in the Northeast and Midwest. The strategy is built around the brands strong performances in the regions in question, combined with a perception that the Peace Hard Tea will connect with consumers in the Southeast region -- where convenience store sales are particularly important. According to Circana data cited by Beer & Beyond, Arnold Palmer Spiked grew by 13.1% in the Northeast and more than 25% in the Great Lakes region, in the 26 weeks that ended Sept. 10; and flavored alcohol beverages as a category grew 30% by volume in the Southeast compared to last year. Hard teas are soaring, and weve been busy building a clear strategy that capitalizes on that momentum and builds incrementality, Peace Hard Tea senior marketing manager Josh McDonald told Beer & Beyond. by Teresa Buyikian , September 27, 2023 This week food delivery giant Grubhub launched a new ad campaign in the U.S. featuring rap artist and food enthusiast Snoop Dogg. The effort, named after the original rap in the hero spot Did Somebody Say (Grubhub), originally launched in 19 international markets before heading to the U.S. In the spot, Snoop raps the catchy track over a montage of the various outrageous locations where he has Grubhub deliver his favorite meals. Memorable lines and scenes include wontons on a catamaran, a slice on the side of the hot tub, and receiving his drink delivery to his private jet mid-flight as a Grubhub driver clings to the outside of the aircraft. The work, created by McCann London, marks one of the larger marketing efforts from Grubhub in recent years. In addition to linear and connected TV, media includes OOH, paid and organic social, in-product placement and a consumer sweepstakes. advertisement advertisement The campaign saw much success overseas before arriving in the U.S.; in the first three days after launch in the UK, Snoops Did Somebody Say spot had more than 4 million views. Marketing Daily asked Ariella Kurshan, Grubhub senior vice president of growth and marketing, about the campaigns overseas success and decision to work with Snoop Dogg. Marketing Daily: Snoops Did Somebody Say spot had more than 4 million views in the UK. Where else has the work appeared? Ariella Kurshan: This campaign has been on a global tour since 2020 and to this day, people are still singing the track in the streets. The campaigns track record includes 18 million views of the ad on JETs YouTube channel, and globally, the track now exists across 19 markets including the Netherlands and Canada, with more than 1 billion impressions across all social media platforms. Marketing Daily: What was the inspiration behind the campaign? Kurshan: At the heart of the Did Somebody Say campaign is the message that no matter what youre craving, Grubhub is always the answer whether its a morning coffee or late-night munchies. We worked with Snoop Dogg to drive home this message by conjuring up extravagant delivery orders and showing customers that Grubhub can deliver what they want when they want it, even if it's getting wontons on a catamaran. And to capture the essence of the fun lyrics, we wanted to bring the campaign to life via a colorful and vibrant TV spot, while also incorporating Snoop Doggs signature style. Marketing Daily: Why choose Snoop as a spokesperson? Will this be an ongoing relationship? Kurshan: With Snoop Dogg at the helm of the Did Somebody Say launch in the U.S., were tapping into his incredible mass appeal to stand out amid consumers busy lives. He is a legendary entertainer and food fanatic with enduring star power that resonates across generations and countries. We really enjoyed collaborating with Snoop to bring Did Somebody Say" to the U.S and wed love to work with him again in the future. Marketing Daily: How involved was Snoop himself in the campaign? Kurshan: Snoop Dogg is the mastermind behind this creative campaign. He tapped into his bold musical talent to create an iconic and catchy Snoopified song for the TV spot. The video was shot on location and in Snoop Doggs compound in LA, as he was transported through a number of outrageous scenes, from sitting back on a modified Grubhub chopper motorcycle, relaxing back in an oversized clam shell, to getting a delivery 36,000 feet in the sky you cant get a cooler set than that, right? by Erik Oster , September 27, 2023 Stella Rosa, an Italian-produced brand of semisweet, semi-sparkling wines which boasts it is the leading imported wine in the country, is dialing up the Scoville scale with its latest release: The Spicy Series. The brand initially dipped its toes into the spicy waters with the release of Pineapple & Chili earlier in the year, which it claims is the fastest-selling flavored wine to enter the market in 2023. Now Stella Rosa is expanding its spice-tinged flavored wine proposition with the release of two new flavors: Lime & Chili and Mango & Chili. Each entry in the product line is created by blending Moscato D'Asti grapes and tropical flavors with Italian chili peppers to create a 5% ABV flavored wine balancing sweet and spicy flavors. Packaging design includes a sweet to spicy meter for each of the three wines. advertisement advertisement Our consumers are looking for a wine that is flavorful but also lower in alcohol content, Stella Rosa Wines President Steve Riboli explained in a statement. "Maybe you're looking for a Taco Tuesday drink but don't necessarily want to break out the Tequila. That's what the Stella Rosa Spicy Series is bringing to the table: an easy and refreshing glass of wine that offers the spice and fizz consumers crave." The company cited Nielsen data showing the sweet wine category had grown into a billion-dollar industry, and Mintel consumer data finding two in three Americans are interested in sweet and spicy flavors. The catchy swicy portmanteau has caught on as a trendy topic on TikTok and other social channels, fueling media coverage and perceptions of a growing trend. The products also seems designed to counteract other trends which have proved challenging for the wine industry: consumers rising preference for ready-to-drink cocktails and lower alcohol options. Ribolis statement hints at the strategy, with the suggestion that The Spicy Series can appeal to consumers open to taco night alternatives to tacos traditional pairing of margaritas. That also hints at another brand strategy and area where Stella Rosa has seen considerable success: bringing in new wine drinkers. According to the brand, more than one in four (27%) of new Stella Rosa drinkers are new to the wine category altogether. by Steve McClellan @mp_mcclellan, September 28, 2023 Havas and ecommerce software company Mirakl said today they are partnering to create an independent retail media network for brands and retailers. The network will leverage Mirakls AI-powered advertising technology optimized for marketplaces and eCommerce. The partnership will make Mirakls suite of commerce and retail media solutions available to Havas clients to sell on Mirakl-powered marketplaces. advertisement advertisement As part of the alliance, Mirakl will also help Havas clients launch and grow their own marketplaces. Mirakl Ads is a retail-first, marketplace-ready ads solution also optimized for eCommerce. It brings together AI-powered technology with a global network of clients and sellers, representing nearly 1.3 billion monthly website visits across Mirakls top 200 clients. Since 2012, Mirakl founded by Philippe Corrot and Adrien Nussenbaum has been powering the platforms of more than 400 B2B and B2C companies, generating over $6 billion in gross merchandise value in 2022. It has an ecosystem of 65,000 third-party sellers, including Leroy Merlin, B&Q, Auchan, Catch, Decathlon, Macys, Madewell, NBCUniversal and Galeries Lafayette. by Wayne Friedman , September 28, 2023 Fox Television Stations has signed a deal with ad-technology company Waymark that allows local advertisers to create -- in minutes -- video advertising through generative AI technology. The deal will cover Fox owned-and-operated stations in 17 markets. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. Previously, a number of Fox TV stations -- KTTV Fox11 Los Angeles, KRIV Fox26 Houston, WJBK Fox2 Detroit and KMSP Fox9 Minneapolis -- had been a pilot test with Waymarks technology. The Fox deal follows similar agreements earlier this year with Spectrum Reach, Gray Television, Beasley Media Group and Morgan Murphy Media. Waymark CEO Alex Persky-Stern believes the deal with the major TV station group will help open the door to premium video advertising for millions of businesses who otherwise wouldn't have had the budget, time, or know-how." advertisement advertisement Fox Television Stations owns and operates 29 full-power broadcast television stations in the U.S. Waymark says its technology is listed in suggested, recommended directories on streaming services Hulu and Roku for advertisers that need creative help. Many women have recently gone to social media to publish images, pregnancy nose tiktoks, and videos of their noses before and during pregnancy . The 'pregnancy nose' craze has highlighted how some women's noses enlarge and alter form during pregnancy. It is unclear how often this happens because everyone's hormone levels vary and everyone reacts differently to changes in them. Some women may notice the difference more than others. Changes in a woman's body are unavoidable during pregnancy. It's easy to overlook these changes, which range from your breasts becoming larger, heavier, and more painful to peeing more frequently. But did you know that the nose can sometimes become obstructed during pregnancy? That is something expectant women have been discussing on social media! Many people have shared pregnancy nose videos that illustrate the before and after shape! Their 'after pregnancy' photos reveal larger noses. This is everything you need to know about the pregnant nose fad. You may have heard of pregnant rhinitis, which also affects the nose. You must deal with a stuffy nose in this scenario. Another alteration in the body during pregnancy that ladies can't get enough of is the pregnant nose. Dr. Rana Choudhary, gynecologist at Apollo Spectra Mumbai, was asked about the pregnancy nose by Health Shots. The list of changes in the body during pregnancy is extensive. However, pregnant mothers' initial thought is whether a certain change is normal or not. You may even question whether your baby's motions are normal (typical baby movements during pregnancy). Advertisement Pregnancy nose is when your nose appears to be growing larger, specifically during pregnancy. According to Dr. Choudhary, a woman's body undergoes changes from the first to the third trimester that persist throughout the postpartum period. Furthermore, most of the changes are typical, such as your nose growing larger during pregnancy. According to the expert, blood vessels tend to widen to accommodate the growing fetus beginning in the first and second trimesters. Increased blood flow into your mucous membrane directly behind your nose might be caused by estrogen levels in your body. Because of the increased blood flow, the muscles and membranes in your nose expand. As a result, the size of your nose will grow. During the third or last trimester, some women experience water retention in their faces, which leads to swelling of the nose(1 Trusted Source Estrogen-Induced Uterine Vasodilation in Pregnancy and Preeclampsia Go to source). Not every pregnant woman will have a larger nose. Only a subset of women may be affected. According to Dr. Choudhary, some women may notice that the color of their noses changes to red. This is related to fluctuating hormone levels, which affect skin color. These symptoms generally affect One out of every Five pregnant women. The pregnancy nose isn't the only strange transformation your body may go through when pregnant. Certain changes are anticipated when a woman becomes pregnant. It could be unusual food cravings, a glowing complexion, or morning sickness. However, some of the changes that the body goes through during pregnancy are a little more unusual. Pregnancy Nose Bleed Because of hormonal changes, nosebleeds are extremely prevalent during pregnancy. They can be alarming, but as long as you don't lose a lot of blood, there's nothing to worry about, and they can typically be treated at home. Blood spills from one or both nostrils during a nosebleed. Pregnancy Nose Bleed in the Third Trimester During pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, your body produces a lot more blood. The tiny blood vessels in your nose might expand, dry out, and rupture, causing you to bleed, a condition known as epistaxis. Advertisement Pregnancy Rhinitis Pregnancy Rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal mucous membranes. This results in nasal congestion. Increased blood flow to the nasal passageways and nasal vein expansion also play a role. Pregnancy rhinitis symptoms develop throughout pregnancy. In addition to feeling uneasy, your sleep may be disturbed. This is because lying down worsens the congestion. This may cause you to feel weary throughout the day. Long-term pregnancy-related nose congestion might potentially cause difficulties. Sinusitis and ear infections are examples of these. When Seeking Pregnancy Rhinitis Treatment, Exercise Caution To open up their nasal passages, many women use non-prescription, over-the-counter (OTC) decongestant sprays. These medications will not help with pregnancy-related rhinitis. These medications may provide you with brief relief. However, they may aggravate your symptoms and cause a full nasal blockage(2 Trusted Source Efficacy and Safety of Fluticasone Furoate and Oxymetazoline Nasal Spray: A Novel First Fixed Dose Combination for the Management of Allergic Rhinitis with Nasal Congestion Go to source). How can you get Pregnancy Rhinitis Under Control? Experts advise you to rest comfortably with the following measures: Do not take over-the-counter nasal decongestants. Drink plenty of water. Increase the humidity in your house. Use a humidifier. Avoid nasal irritants like cigarette smoke. Get your feet moving. Regular moderate-intensity exercise can help alleviate congestion. It can also improve your sleep. But first, consult with your doctor to determine which workouts are appropriate for you. Raise the head of your bed before going to bed. Use an extra pillow or a wedge, for example. Consult your doctor about using over-the-counter nasal strips and saline nasal sprays or drops during pregnancy. It happens because of the huge changes in hormone levels that occur during pregnancy, particularly the increase in estrogen, which relaxes the blood vessels in all tissues of the body. This lets more blood into the tissues of the nose, allowing them to grow and change shape, making them appear larger and puffier. These hormonal changes can also result in - Runny nose during pregnancy, especially in early pregnancy blocked nose during pregnancy Stuffy nose during pregnancy, especially in early pregnancy Nosebleeds, also popularly known as bloody noses, are common in the first and third trimesters. Nasal congestion during pregnancy Itchy eyes Post-nasal drip during pregnancy However, a pregnancy nose isn't the only unusual transformation your body may go through while pregnant. Here are a few more: Heart and Pregnancy During pregnancy, the heart undergoes several modifications to suit the baby's growth. The heart is pushed higher up in the chest as a result of the abdominal organs being squeezed and relocated to create a place for the growing fetus. Not only that but during pregnancy, the heart produces bigger muscles and changes in size. This is because the heart has to work much harder during pregnancy, beating up to eight times faster per minute than before to pump the extra volume of blood across the body and to the baby. In rare situations, a woman's blood circulation throughout her body doubles during pregnancy. This helps ensure theres enough oxygen getting to the baby to support its development. Skin Color Changes We've all heard of the pregnant "glow," which causes some women's skin to appear brighter. However, some women get melasma, a disorder in which the skin around the eyes, nose, chin, and upper lip darkens. It's a very common illness, affecting over 75% of pregnant women, but it's more common in women with darker skin. These modifications differ from woman to woman and usually disappear quickly after birth or when the woman stops breastfeeding. The specific etiology of melasma during pregnancy is unknown, but it is assumed that increases in estrogen and progesterone are involved. During pregnancy, the skin surrounding the nipple (known as the areola) might also darken. Again, it's unclear why this occurs, but it could be to assist newborn babies with identifying the nipple for eating. Newborns can only see things that are very saturated and red, and they can't see much more than a foot away from their faces. They discern between light and dark considerably better; therefore, the contrast between the dark areola and the pale surrounding skin may aid them. Most women's areolas will likely remain slightly darker following pregnancy. Hair Growth and Shedding Because of the rise in estrogen in the body, which enables the hair follicles to remain in growth mode, many women's hair grows and appears healthier during pregnancy. Regrettably, hormonal fluctuations affect all hair follicles, not just those on the head. This means that hair growth might occur in less ideal locations during pregnancy, such as the upper lip, upper thighs, abdomen, and back; however, this disappears after pregnancy. During pregnancy, some women experience hair loss instead. This is usually caused by the shock of pregnancy on the body, which causes the hairs to go into a "resting" period and eventually shed. This normally goes away as the pregnancy goes on. Hair loss can also occur after childbirth due to a decline in estrogen levels as hormones return to normal. Hair loss often peaks four months after birth. In most situations, the hair regrows and returns to normal. Changes in Oral Health Many changes in dental health can occur during pregnancy. Estrogen and progesterone surges might make the gums more prone to bleeding, infection, and injury. Gingivitis affects around 70% of pregnant women. Teeth are also more vulnerable to damage and cavities during pregnancy, especially if a woman has morning sickness. This is because stomach acid can damage the protective layer of teeth. During pregnancy, teeth may also feel shaky. This is due to an increase in estrogen levels as well as an increase in a hormone called relaxin. During pregnancy, it stimulates all ligaments in the body to become more flexible to aid in birth. While this is beneficial in some areas of the body (such as the pelvis), relaxin also affects the ligament that holds each tooth in place, resulting in the tooth feeling loose. Tooth loss is more likely to occur in women who have had many pregnancies and in women from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. If a woman loses any teeth during pregnancy, it is usually due to years of poor oral health, not just the changes that occur during pregnancy. While some of the changes you'll go through during pregnancy aren't ideal, they're all intended to help the baby develop properly in the womb. Fortunately, most of these abnormalities are transient, fading shortly after birth. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. The current departure of Armenian residents from the territory of Azerbaijan is their voluntary and individual decision, Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan for Special Assignments Elchin Amirbayov said in an interview with BBC's Newshour, Trend reports. "This has nothing to do with the forced relocation or any desire of Azerbaijan for them to leave. They do have a choice. It is important to emphasize that we have called on them to stay and be a part of multiethnic Azerbaijan. If you look at what the Azerbaijani authorities have been doing over the last few days, delivering all sorts of humanitarian assistance, essential staples, medicaments, firefighting machines, we have already established electricity supply for 24 hours a day. While we do all those steps, it is very hard to prevent them from leaving, because if we tried to do so, we would have been accused of taking them hostage. So, we stepped back, we make our best in order to reassure them to stay. In future, those Armenians that left Azerbaijan can come back," he said. Amirbayov also noted that Azerbaijan strongly condemns and rejects the statement made by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan about the so-called "ethnic cleansing" allegedly happening in Karabakh. "He is not only backtracking from his own statements as of September 21, when he said that there is no threat to local Armenians from the Azerbaijani authorities, but his alarming narrative is aimed at disrupting Azerbaijani efforts to deliver humanitarian assistance and to engage in the reintegration process with local Armenians. He also undermines possible peace prospects between Azerbaijan and Armenia," the official noted. Meanwhile, in order to ensure the provisions of the Trilateral Statement, suppression of large-scale provocations in Azerbaijan's Karabakh economic region, disarmament, and withdrawal of Armenian armed forces formations from the territories of Azerbaijan, localized anti-terrorist activities were carried out in the region. Taking into account the appeal of the representatives of the Armenian population of Karabakh through the Russian peacekeeping contingent, an agreement was reached on September 20, 2023, at 13:00 (GMT+4) to cease anti-terrorist activities. Later, at the invitation of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ramin Mammadov, responsible for contacts with the Armenian residents of Karabakh, met with representatives of the Armenian residents of Karabakh on September 21, 2023, in Yevlakh. In the context of discussing social and humanitarian issues, the representatives of the Armenian residents of Azerbaijan's Karabakh region informed that there is a special need for fuel. At the same time, they asked for humanitarian assistance in the form of foodstuffs. As a result of the meeting, their request was taken seriously. Until now, Azerbaijan has already supplied fuel for the heating systems of kindergartens and schools, as well as the emergency medical service and fire department, and provided humanitarian support for Karabakh residents. The President of Georgia, Salome Zourabichvili, met with Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda in Vilnius. President Zourabichvili addressed the meeting on Twitter, saying:"Had an important meeting with President Gitanas Nauseda of Lithuania, a long-standing friend & ally of Georgia. Amid the critical juncture in Georgia's EU integration path, your unwavering support is invaluable. Lithuania has always stood strong with Georgia- grateful for your pivotal support."President Gitanas Nauseda also addressed his meeting with Salome Zourabichvili and affirmed Lithuania's support for Georgia's EU and Euro-Atlantic integration. He added that Georgia's future depends on implementing reforms to align with European values, stating:"Welcomed the President of Georgia Salome Zourabichvili Vilnius today.Lithuania remains a supporter of Georgia EU & Euro-Atlantic integration.Georgia's future depends on its ability to focus on reforms and foster European values."With this visit, President Zourabichvili concluded her visits to the Baltic countries. Prior to coming to Lithuania, she met with top officials in Estonia and Latvia.The National Bank of Georgia has disseminated information regarding the working meeting conducted today by Natia Turnava, the Acting President, with representatives from the business association and the banking sector.The press release highlights that the Acting President of the National Bank, along with representatives from commercial banks and business associations, engaged in discussions regarding the current state of the banking sector and outlined upcoming initiatives aimed at stimulating the economy and improving access to financial services for the population."The banking sector and the National Bank, as always, are cooperating very closely; we share a common vision and a common goal. Both the banking sector and the National Bank are committed to our international obligations. We have very exciting future development plans. We will address the questions raised by the banks regarding how to provide an additional boost to the economy. Our common objective is to ensure that the economy continues to grow rapidly and that banks can invest more resources. These are highly interesting initiatives that will be introduced in the banking sector, under our supervision and taking into account all the associated risks," said Turnava, as reported. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov and the UK's Minister of State for Europe Leo Docherty have held a phone talk, Trend reports. During the conversation the agenda of cooperation between the two countries, as well as the current situation in the region, was discussed. The minister informed in detail about the current situation in the region after local anti-terrorist activities carried out by Azerbaijan in the Karabakh region. It was noted that the anti-terrorist activities implemented also became an impetus for the reintegration of Armenian residents living in the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan. In particular, as a result of contacts between the representative of the central government of Azerbaijan and representatives of the Armenian residents, practical steps were taken towards meeting the needs of these residents. It was emphasized that the statements of the Armenian side about the alleged ethnic cleansing in the region do not correspond to reality, and Azerbaijan is taking measures to reintegrate the Armenian population of Karabakh. It was once again noted that Azerbaijan is committed to the normalization and peace process with Armenia on a bilateral basis, as well as efforts to reintegrate the Armenian residents living in the Karabakh region within the framework of the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan and international mechanisms. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has laid a foundation stone for a 160-seat kindergarten, Trend reports. The head of state was informed about the work to be done. The kindergarten will occupy one-hectare area. It will have group, administrative, technical and medical rooms, sport and music halls, kitchen, laundry. There will also be a playground, parking space and other facilities. President Ilham Aliyev laid a foundation stone for the kindergarten. Lawmakers vented their frustration Wednesday after a government watchdog report detailed squalid living conditions in military barracks that included overflowing sewage, rampant mold, bed bug infestations and squatters. In the first public hearing of the House Armed Services Committee's recently launched military quality-of-life panel, both Republican and Democrat lawmakers blasted the findings of last week's Government Accountability Office report on barracks conditions as "deplorable," "unacceptable" and "appalling." "If I would have had these conditions in any of our barracks, I would have gotten fired," said panel Chairman Don Bacon, R-Neb., a retired Air Force brigadier general who served as a wing commander at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, and Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska. "Where is the accountability at with these barracks? Has anyone been held accountable? And what are we going to do to get this right and get this fixed?" Read Next: Catcalling, Racist Comments, Burnout: Alaska Troops Eyed as Prestigious Arctic Force Face Problems in First Year of Service "We cannot allow this situation to persist," Bacon added. "It is an issue not only of justice and dignity, but also of military readiness." The GAO report, issued last week, illuminated and confirmed complaints that service members have sounded for years about barracks that are unlivable. Based on visits to 12 installations, the 118-page report featured accounts of undrinkable brown water, broken air conditioning during heat waves, broken and unsecured doors and windows, and, in one of the most extreme cases, service members having to clean up "biological waste" themselves after a suicide attempt. At Wednesday's hearing, Elizabeth Field, who led the GAO's audit, said conditions were allowed to deteriorate so badly because of chronic underfunding of barracks maintenance, coupled with officials' indifference to junior enlisted members' opinions and a lack of attention to the issue from the highest levels of the Pentagon. "One of the most troubling things that we observed during our audit was that the Office of the Secretary of Defense -- which is supposed to oversee the barracks programs, give guidance to the military services -- very much had a hands-off approach to this topic," Field said. "When we asked them some basic questions at the beginning of our audit about how many barracks there were, whether they were not complying with standards, how many service members lived there, they couldn't tell us." Witnesses from the departments of the Army, Air Force and Navy acknowledged issues with housing and vowed to improve living conditions but offered few specific solutions, which appeared to frustrate lawmakers further. When Carla Coulson, the deputy assistant secretary of the Army for installations, housing and partnerships, attributed housing issues to a lack of funding, Bacon noted Congress typically provides the Pentagon more funding than it asks for. "It doesn't add up," Bacon said. When Rep. Sara Jacobs, D-Calif., raised the possibility of Congress requiring funds be spent specifically on barracks so it doesn't compete with other facilities funding, officials said they would oppose taking away "flexibility" in how they can spend money. "We all like flexibility, but I think we're clearly seeing that the barracks are not being invested in, so maybe flexibility is not the only priority here," Jacobs shot back. Rep. Jen Kiggans, R-Va., a Navy veteran whose Hampton Roads-area district includes a significant Navy presence, said she was "almost in tears" when she saw the living conditions on bases in her district. "It hurts my heart when I hear other Navy and military parents say, 'I can't recommend this job to my kids for these reasons,' so we have to do better," Kiggans said. Some lawmakers, including Kiggans, raised the possibility of privatizing more barracks to improve their quality. While Field said that privatized barracks the GAO toured in San Diego were in "amazing condition," she also stressed privatization is not a "silver bullet." The military's family housing, which is largely privatized, has faced its own issues with unsafe and unhealthy living conditions in recent years. Pressed on what Congress should be doing to ensure the military improves the barracks, Field suggested mandating the GAO's 31 recommendations in law if the Pentagon does not follow through on them itself. "The department concurred with most of our recommendations, but in some cases, they were partial concurrences and statements that they've already implemented the recommendations and so they're good. They're not good," Field said. Bacon, who is planning for his quality-of-life panel to release a report in the coming months recommending reforms to include in next year's defense policy bill, said there is a "smorgasbord" of changes lawmakers will need to look at. "This isn't just a money problem, which it is and we need to know definitively what it's going to cost to get this right," he said. "But it's also policy, accountability." Robert Thompson, principal deputy assistant secretary of the Navy for energy, installations and environment, appeared to concede that top officials need to change their mindset and consider housing as "mission critical" as other facilities before barracks will improve. "There needs to be a standard for livability," Thompson said, adding that conversations with the defense secretarys office on what that means started after last week's GAO came out. "There needs to be a plain-eyed, clear-eyed view of what the standard is for this place to be dignified, safe and comfortable." -- Rebecca Kheel can be reached at rebecca.kheel@military.com. Follow her on X @reporterkheel. Related: Bedbugs, Brown Water, Squatters: Military Barracks Blasted over Horrid Living Conditions, Lack of Accountability The Department of Veterans Affairs is ramping up efforts to educate veterans on potential scams or fraud that could rob them of disability benefits or cost them, should they fall victim to such crimes. VA launched a new website last week, www.va.gov/vsafe, that provides information on identifying fraud, reporting scams and vetting service representatives if they need help with claims. Maureen Elias, VA deputy chief of staff, said the effort is needed as more veterans have become eligible for disability payments under the PACT Act and attorneys solicit Camp Lejeune water victims. Read Next: Catcalling, Racist Comments, Burnout: Alaska Troops Eyed as Prestigious Arctic Force Face Problems in First Year of Service "Anytime there's new benefits or new money being allocated to individuals, there's the potential for fraudsters and scamsters to come in," Elias said during a press conference Friday. In the past year, VA has investigated 12,474 cases of potential benefits fraud and helped 1,164 victims whose disability payments were directed to fraudulent bank accounts. The department has recouped $847,494 as a result of prevention and recovery, according to Elias. Among the most prevalent types of malfeasance VA has seen are unaccredited companies providing assistance to veterans to file claims and charging exorbitant fees, which is illegal on initial claims, Elias said. VA has increased investigations of companies that are charging fees, sending letters informing them of the law and requesting that they stop. However, there are no criminal penalties for such conduct, according to VA officials, and the department has asked Congress to reinstate such penalties, which were in force until 2006. "They're operating in a gray area, and some of them are charging up to six times whatever a veteran receives in benefits payouts," Elias said. Earlier this year, Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., and Marco Rubio, R-Fla., introduced a bill that would make fraud over veterans benefits punishable by up to five years in prison, a fine or both. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., reintroduced the legislation this year, the Preventing Crimes Against Veterans Act, in the House, where it had passed in 2021 on a 416-5 vote. It was not taken up in the Senate at the time. The bills have been referred to their respective judiciary committees. VA officials stressed that no veterans service officer or organization can charge fees for initial claims, but they can for appeals. As far as attorneys seeking to represent those harmed by contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, N.C., the Justice Department and the Navy earlier this month placed a cap on fees for those interested in settling claims without going to court at 20% and those seeking to file a lawsuit at 25%. The departments announced the caps under the Federal Tort Claims Act. As part of the effort to educate veterans on potential scams -- the so-called VSAFE program, which stands for Veterans Scam and Fraud Evasion -- VA Secretary Denis McDonough has addressed fraud and "claim sharks," who illegally charge fees for filing, during his appearances at veterans service organization conventions and all large gatherings of veterans, including medical center town halls. VA also has included fraud education information into materials provided to veterans on health care and benefits, Elias said. "We are going to oversaturate veterans with fraud and scam information, so they know how to recognize it and what to do when it comes to them," she said. For Elias, an Army veteran and military wife, the fraud prevention initiative is personal. Her family was a victim of fraud when a scammer identified himself as a VA employee who could assist with paying off their home loan and robbed them of thousands of dollars in home equity. "One of the things this website does that is really important is, it talks in plain language to veterans and their families about what the frauds and scams might look like and where and how to go for resources," Elias said. -- Patricia Kime can be reached at Patricia.Kime@Military.com Related: Camp Lejeune Water Victims Offered Quicker Payout Option by Navy and Justice Department Thousands of Air Force veterans who received less-than-honorable discharges due to post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury or other mental health conditions, as well as sexual assault or harassment, will have those separations automatically reviewed due to a new legal settlement. The service consented to the reviews as part of a settlement in a nationwide class-action lawsuit -- Johnson v. Kendall -- brought by two airmen in 2021. The lawsuit took aim at the Air Force Discharge Review Board, or AFDRB, for wrongly discharging troops over misconduct linked to a military trauma, such as a combat- or training-related head injury or sexual assault. "I am pleased that the Air Force is taking steps through this settlement to make the AFDRB more accessible to veterans like me who love and have served this country," Martin Johnson, a former F-16 crew chief with PTSD who brought the suit on behalf of the settlement class, said in a Thursday press release. "I am glad the Air Force is committed to taking less-than-honorably discharged veterans' mental health and trauma seriously." Read Next: Marine Corps Leaders Struggle with How to Train Female Infantry Officers Amid Worries About Standards The Air Force Discharge Review Board will start automatically reconsidering less-than-honorable decisions on applications received between Sept. 13, 2015, and the date of the settlement, which was set to be finalized in December. Veterans who served in the Space Force will also be eligible for the reviews. The settlement also expands the right to reapply for an upgrade to eligible applicants who were discharged and applied to the review board between Sept. 13, 2006, and Sept. 12, 2015, according to the news release. It applies to those who were discharged from the Air Force, Space Force, Air Force Reserve or Air National Guard under honorable conditions, or under other-than-honorable conditions. But it does not apply to bad conduct discharges, dishonorable discharges, uncharacterized discharges or dismissals, the release said. General discharges and other-than-honorable discharges, also known as "bad paper" discharges, limit veterans' access to Department of Veterans Affairs benefits and also can affect a veteran's long-term earning power, since many employers will not hire anyone with less than a good-conduct discharge. Military.com reported in 2021 that more than 10,000 former Air Force members could be affected by the case. "Discharge upgrades are not guaranteed, and applications will be decided on a case-by-case basis," the Air Force said in a press release. "Eligible veterans who have been identified by the Department of the Air Force will receive notice of their rights under the settlement. However, Department of the Air Force veterans who do not receive notice may still be eligible for relief." The settlement also requires the Air Force Discharge Review Board to create a one-year pilot program that will address the issue in future cases, including giving veterans who fail to submit sufficient evidence of their condition or experience an opportunity to add it to their record. The program will also provide a phone number for applicants to call with inquiries and train members and staff on how mental health conditions can lead to misconduct, according to the news release. "The Department of the Air Force's actions to resolve this case underscore our continued commitment to provide former airmen and Guardians fairness, due process, equity, and justice in all cases that are submitted to our review boards," Alex Wagner, assistant secretary of the Air Force for manpower and reserve affairs, said in the release. The final approval hearing for the settlement is scheduled for Dec. 4, 2023, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut. The full settlement and additional details can be found at www.JohnsonAirForceSettlement.com. -- Thomas Novelly can be reached at thomas.novelly@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @TomNovelly. Related: Air Force Veterans Seek Class-Action Suit over Trauma Consideration in Discharges ( 20:47) BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. On September 8, a telephone conversation took place between the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov and the UK's Minister of State for Europe Leo Docherty, Trend reports referring to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan. During the telephone talk the agenda of cooperation between the two countries, as well as the current situation in the region, was discussed. The minister informed in detail about the current situation in the region after local anti-terrorist activities carried out by Azerbaijan in the Karabakh region. It was noted that the anti-terrorist activities implemented also became an impetus for the reintegration of Armenian residents living in the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan. In particular, as a result of contacts between the representative of the central government of Azerbaijan and representatives of the Armenian residents, practical steps were taken towards meeting the needs of these residents. It was emphasized that the statements of the Armenian side about alleged ethnic cleansing in the region do not correspond to reality, and Azerbaijan is taking measures to reintegrate the Armenian population of Karabakh. It was once again noted that Azerbaijan is committed to the normalization and peace process with Armenia on a bilateral basis, as well as efforts to reintegrate the Armenian residents living in the Karabakh region within the framework of the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan and international mechanisms. During the telephone conversation, views on other issues of mutual interest were also exchanged. Ending U.S. aid to Ukraine would be "devastating" to Ukraine's war of survival against Russia, the nominee for what's widely considered the third-most powerful position in the Pentagon warned Thursday. "It'd be devastating, first and foremost, to Ukraine, which is putting good use to the assistance we are providing them, but also to this very, very impressive alliance that has been formed over the last 20 months," Derek Chollet told the Senate Armed Services Committee at his confirmation hearing to be under secretary of defense for policy. Chollet's testimony on Capitol Hill comes as there appears to be no clear path in Congress to approving more aid for Ukraine. While a majority of lawmakers in both parties continue to support the funding, a growing number of Republicans are turning against the aid. Read Next: Marine Corps Leaders Struggle with How to Train Female Infantry Officers Amid Worries About Standards In what could be the most consequential shift, GOP House leadership is bowing to far-right pressure to pump the brakes on the security assistance. Chollet told the Senate committee that more than 50 countries, including donors outside of Europe, are contributing in some way to the effort in Ukraine. "These are countries all around the world that are providing some form of military assistance," said Chollet, who currently serves as counselor at the State Department. "We are leading by example. We are doing the most thanks to Congress' strong support here, and so I think it is absolutely vital that we maintain our robust assistance to Ukraine." The wavering in Congress comes just a week after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with lawmakers in person on Capitol Hill to press his case for continued support. The war is at a critical juncture, with U.S. officials warning there is little time left for Ukraine's counteroffensive to make progress before the winter freeze sets in and allows each side time to regroup. Ukrainian forces have so far struggled to break through Russia's heavily mined lines, though U.S. officials have commended the progress they have made. Amid concerns that the House's fiscal 2024 Pentagon spending bill does not have the votes to pass because of conservatives' opposition to Ukraine aid, House GOP leadership is moving to strip $300 million in funding for Ukraine from the bill. Those funds are meant for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, a program started in 2014 after Russia illegally annexed Crimea, a region that was part of Ukraine. Unlike most of the U.S. military support for the war that has come directly from U.S. weapons stockpiles to provide Ukraine with immediate help, the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative funds contracts with U.S. weapons makers to provide the country with longer-term support. On Wednesday night, lawmakers rejected an amendment to cut the $300 million from the Pentagon bill in a 330-104 vote. A separate amendment to bar any security assistance to Ukraine failed in a 339-93 vote. But facing the prospect of the Pentagon bill failing on the House floor for the third time in two weeks, Republican leadership announced it would take the $300 million out of the bill despite the amendment failing. In both cases, support for the amendments came entirely from Republicans. And even though the amendments failed, the votes demonstrated growing opposition in the GOP to Ukraine aid. A similar vote in July to cut off aid to Ukraine garnered just 70 Republican votes. In lieu of including the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative funding in the Pentagon bill, the House is scheduled to vote Thursday night on a standalone bill with the $300 million that will likely pass. But the fight over what is essentially a rounding error in the Pentagon's budget is an ominous sign for the billions in emergency funding for Ukraine's more immediate needs in the war. The Senate is pressing forward with plans to pass a bill that includes $4.5 billion in military aid and $1.7 billion in economic assistance for Ukraine. That's well short of the $24 billion the White House asked for, but even that amount is expected to be dead on arrival in the House. "If [senators] want to put focus on Ukraine and not focus on the southern border, I think their priorities are backwards," House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., told reporters Tuesday. On Wednesday, McCarthy added that he doesn't "see the support in the House" for the Senate bill. -- Rebecca Kheel can be reached at rebecca.kheel@military.com. Follow her on X @reporterkheel. Related: Pentagon Says Ukraine Training, Weapons Shipments Will Continue Despite Any Government Shutdown Gen. Mark Milley, the outgoing chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said he will take "appropriate measures" to protect himself and his family after former President Donald Trump accused the nation's top uniformed officer of treason, suggesting he would have been executed in the past for his back-channel reassurances to China. Trump, who is running in the 2024 presidential race, claimed Milley would have faced death "in times gone by" for communicating with a Chinese general during the former president's tenure and that his departure from the Joint Chiefs position this week will be a "time for all citizens of the USA to celebrate!" Milley defended his communications in an interview this week for CBS's "60 Minutes," where he also said that Trump's comments were not only a swipe at him but a denunciation of the military as a whole, an institution that Trump claims to support but has also lambasted for "turning woke." Read Next: Marine Corps Leaders Struggle with How to Train Female Infantry Officers Amid Worries About Standards "As much as these comments are directed at me, it's also directed at the institution of the military. And there's 2.1 million of us in uniform," Milley said. "And the American people can take it to the bank, that all of us, every single one of us, from private to general, are loyal to that Constitution and will never turn our back on it, no matter what. "No matter what the threats, no matter what the humiliation, no matter what," he added. Trump has routinely criticized his own former officials -- often on his social media site, Truth Social, where he attacked Milley. According to Bob Woodward and Robert Costa in their book "Peril," Milley made two calls to a Chinese general, Li Zuocheng, in 2021. One call was two days after a pro-Trump mob stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6. "My task at that time was to de-escalate," Milley told senators that year, saying that his intent was to calm fears in Chinese top brass that the U.S. would not attack China despite their intelligence indicating otherwise as America seemed in turmoil after the Capitol siege. He also said that several top Trump officials knew about the calls. Milley was "certain" that the former president "did not intend on attacking the Chinese, and it is my directed responsibility to convey presidential orders and intent," he said. Trump and his allies have previously called for Milley to resign, and now -- as the chairman is on his way to retirement -- it appears that the former president was threatening something harsher, had the times been different. Milley said he has "adequate safety precautions." "If we're willing to die for that document, if we're willing to deploy to combat, if we're willing to lose an arm, a leg, an eye to protect and support and defend that document and protect the American people," Milley said in the "60 Minutes" interview, "then we are willing to live for it, too." Milley's tenure as Joint Chiefs chairman was tumultuous, according to The Washington Post and other outlets that have profiled him in the final days of his chairmanship. At times, he was seen as the last reasonable stopgap in a top-down chain of chaos during the Trump years, including during contentious nuclear chest-thumping between the former president and Kim Jong Un, the dictator of North Korea. At another time, he endured national condemnation for taking part in Trump's march through Lafayette Square outside of the White House, where police used tear gas and riot tactics to clear the area of protestors, apparently for a photo opportunity. "I should not have been there," Milley said after the photo op. "My presence in that moment and in that environment created a perception of the military involved in domestic politics." What is clear about Milley's legacy was that he was not one to mince words during his chairmanship, a tendency that often earned him ire from Republican lawmakers. In 2021, during a hearing at the Capitol, Milley sharply defended the military studying critical race theory, an academic concept meant to examine systemic racial inequality in American. "I've read Mao Zedong. I've read Karl Marx. I've read Lenin. That doesn't make me a communist," he said. "So what is wrong with understanding -- having some situational understanding about the country for which we are here to defend?" -- Drew F. Lawrence can be reached at drew.lawrence@military.com. Follow him on X @df_lawrence. Related: 'Zero' Chance of Military Intervention in Disputed Election Results, Milley Says The Department of Veterans Affairs mistakenly paid senior career executives $9.7 million in bonuses earlier this month, and now oversight committees in Congress are demanding answers. VA announced Friday that the erroneous payments to 170 senior executives at its headquarters in Washington, D.C., which were part of PACT Act incentives to foster critical skills at the department, would be rescinded. Leaders of both the House and Senate veterans affairs committees are seeking information on how the error occurred. They wrote to VA Secretary Denis McDonough Wednesday, criticizing the VA for padding senior executives' paychecks instead of using the money to fill high-demand vacancies. Read Next: Marine Corps Leaders Struggle with How to Train Female Infantry Officers Amid Worries About Standards "VA leadership managing the program clearly did not follow the intended procedures and guardrails that facilities in the field were required to follow," the lawmakers wrote. "We expect a much higher level of due diligence, oversight, and planning at this executive level." The letter was sent by the chairmen and ranking Republicans on both committees -- Reps. Mike Bost, R-Ill., and Mark Takano, D-Calif., along with Sens. Jon Tester, D-Mont., and Jerry Moran, R-Kan. -- who questioned the use of the PACT Act hiring and retention program to pay the bonuses. "Congress will pursue additional oversight and more aggressive safeguards on existing and future authorities to ensure this does not happen again," they wrote. The PACT Act allows the VA to hire or provide incentive pay to employees in hard-to-fill posts, such as human resources, information technology, law enforcement and housekeeping to ensure that it has enough staff to support the influx of veterans eligible for health care and benefits. A review of the critical skill incentive pay, or CSI, in early September uncovered the erroneous payments, according to VA Press Secretary Terrence Hayes. "Because of this error, we are canceling all CSI payments made to career senior executives at VA headquarters while we take time to review and strengthen the CSI process," Hayes said in a statement Friday. "As a part of that effort, we will be instituting additional reviews and stronger controls for all CSIs awarded to career senior executives." Hayes noted that the erroneous payments only accounted for less than 3% of the payouts under the critical skills incentive pay program. More than 97% of recipients were those for whom the authorization was created, resulting in 13,165 payments worth roughly $117 million. He said no political appointees received payments under the program. The department has asked the inspector general to look into the issue and make recommendations on oversight of the program, moving forward. Hayes said the department planned to work with those affected to establish a repayment schedule to offset any financial hardship the recoupment may cause. "We deeply apologize to the employees who have been impacted by this error," Hayes said in the announcement, which was first covered by Military Times. The lawmakers asked VA to strengthen its internal controls and management to ensure that all payments under the program meet requirements. They also asked for a list of all requests under the CSI authority to date, the guidance issued to those managing the program and the criteria for qualification and the justification used to pay the executives a VA headquarters. They added that they were "heartened" to learn that more than $117 million has been used as intended under the program, and that those in the field who received those payments will retain them. -- Patricia Kime can be reached at Patricia.Kime@Military.com. Related: VA Lost More than $3.5 Billion in Misplaced Spending in Fiscal 2022 These weren't the "double, double toil and trouble" kind of witches Shakespeare wrote about in "Macbeth." They were Wiccans, led by Gerald Gardner, the man whose writings would revive the pagan belief system to the modern era. In 1940s Britain, his beliefs were far from the mainstream, but like the rest of the country, he knew he might soon find himself under Nazi domination. Gardner may have been 55 years old and leading a coven of witches, but he was still a patriotic Briton with a stiff upper lip. So the man who would be remembered as "The Father of Witchcraft" and his followers were going to do their part to defend the island, casting a spell that would target Adolf Hitler personally and end the threat of a Nazi invasion. Gardner grew up in a wealthy English family that ran a timber company for the British Empire. He was a sickly boy who spent more time with his nursemaid than his parents. He spent much of his young life traveling and educating himself, eventually gaining a keen interest in spirituality, religious rituals and the occult. He would return to Britain as an older man, still sickly, but took up a career as a civil servant and amateur archeologist. Meanwhile, his interest in the occult only grew. After Britain declared war on Germany in 1939, Garder settled in Highcliffe-on-Sea and joined the New Forest Coven, a group of pagan witches in southern England that he believed were continuing a pre-Christian religious order that had been kept secret for centuries. As 1939 turned to 1940, Gardner's affection for his coven grew, as did the coven itself. They practiced folk magic in tune with their beliefs and he began writing books that would later form the foundation for the brand of Wicca that still bears Gardner's name. A Book of Shadows, a Wiccan religious text and instructions for magical rituals, owned by Gerald Gardner. Meanwhile, in Europe, things weren't going quite as well for the British Expeditionary Force. Nazi Germany had captured its objectives in Poland, and had already conquered Denmark, Norway, Belgium, The Netherlands and Luxembourg. As the German Army pushed farther into France in May 1940, hundreds of thousands of Allied soldiers had to be evacuated from the beaches of Dunkirk. Paris was captured in June 1940, and France was forced to capitulate. The Battle of Britain was about to begin. And when Prime Minister Winston Churchill ordered Britons to "therefore brace ourselves to our duties," the aged Gardner and his band of witches dutifully complied. Gardner himself became an air raid warden and his home a headquarters for Air Raid Precautions, a civil defense organization. He also joined the local Home Guard as an armorer, providing locals with weapons from his own collection of firearms and preparing molotov cocktails for use in combat. But Gardner wanted to do more, and believed he had the magical ability to take the fight to the Nazis. The lore of the New Forest Coven included a ritual that had been used twice to defend the British Isles from the threat of an invasion. By creating a "Cone of Power," he and his coven could affect real-world events from the security of the New Forest. British witches had purportedly used the Cone of Power in 1588 to help fight off the Spanish Armada and in 1805 to end Napoleon's threat to England. They were going to use it once more in 1940. Gardner in the Ritual Room of his Highcliffe home. (via GeraldGardner.com) The Cone of Power would be directed toward Hitler's brain to cloud his judgment, weaken his resolve and hasten his downfall. It was Aug. 1, 1940, and Lammas Eve, an important harvest festival in the Wicca religion, when Gardner and his coven met in New Forest. Just north of Highcliffe, they met around an ancient hangman's tree called The Naked Man. From there, the coven walked to Ferny Knapp Inclosure, a wooded area where the ritual would take place. Instead of the traditional bonfire, the witches used a shuttered lantern (Gardner was still an air raid warden, after all) and danced in a spiral around it while naked (or "skyclad," in the Wiccan vernacular) to generate the magical energy needed to form the cone. As the coven chanted and danced, Gardner invoked the words of the spell and the assault on Hitler's brain began. We only know the Cone of Power ritual actually happened because Gardner would write about it himself in one of the three books he wrote on witchcraft in the 1950s. J.L. Bracelin, a high priest of Gardnerian Wicca and a contemporary of Gardner's, also wrote about it in his book, "Gerald Gardner, Witch." But did the Cone of Power affect Hitler's brain? Before August 1940, the Nazi war machine was virtually unstoppable, making few mistakes along the way. Hitler controlled or otherwise dominated most of Western Europe, and those not under Berlin's direct control (aside from Britain) were either too weak or too fearful to make any meaningful resistance. Roughly six weeks after the Cone of Power, Hitler abruptly canceled Operation Sea Lion, the proposed invasion of Britain, in favor of Operation Barbarossa, the invasion of the Soviet Union. Less than a year later, Hitler would invade the USSR and declare war on the United States, neither of which he was bound to do. These were two critical miscalculations on the German leader's part that would have disastrous consequences for his regime. To Gerald Gardner and the New Forest Coven, it was proof positive that the Cone of Power had once again saved Britain. -- 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. Salisbury Mining District, USAi Limonite.This species includes all the ores which have heretofore afforded iron to commerce in this State, if we except the unimportant quantity derived from the magnetic iron-sand above mentioned. It presents a number of mineralogical varieties, depending on diversities in mechanical composition, the intermixture of foreign species, and rarely of organic impurities. Among these varieties the following may be enumerated as the most important: fibrous brown hematite, compact hematite, ochrey brown iron ore, and bog iron-ore. Fibrous brown hematite consists of 82 peroxide of iron, 14 water, 2 oxide of manganese and 1 silica, in the hundred parts, while bog iron-ore contains from 40 to 50 p. c. of peroxide of iron, the other ingredients being silica, alumina, water and oxide of manganese, with frequent traces of phosphoric acid. The fibrous brown hematite, compact hematite, and the ochrey mixtures of the two, are generally confined to primitive rocks, as gneiss and mica-slate. They afford materials for very large iron-works in many countries, and are universally regarded as the best ores for yielding a malleable iron, and for being easily converted into steel. Although these ores (which may be referred to, under the general name of hematite) are confined to a limited district of the State, they nevertheless appear to constitute its richest metallic resource. The iron which comes into the market under the name of Salisbury iron is smelted from limonite ores mined in northwestern Litchfield County, Connecticut; Berkshire Co., Mass.; and portions of Dutchess and Columbia counties in the State of New York. The ore was first mined, and much the largest amount of ore has now for a long time been obtained at mines situated within the town of Salisbury, Connecticut. No geological report seems to have been made upon this ore district as a whole, though many widely scattered papers have made reference to it, and together constitute a considerable body of scientific information. In spite of the rather low grade of the ores (40 to 50 and exceptionally 55 to 57 per cent. of metallic iron) and the recent vast development of iron mining within the Lake Superior region, the Salisbury mines continue to be worked. This is largely due to the peculiar properties of the ore; particularly its high content of manganese and its low percentage of phosphorus, and to the methods of smelting and founding which are employed; the furnaces of the Salisbury and Richmond regions being among the few still left in America which use charcoal as fuel. The pig iron produced from these ores is especially adapted to the manufacture of car wheels, since it is of sufficient strength to resist the strains and shocks to which the wheel body is subjected, and has further the property of taking a deep chill, so that the tread and flange of the wheel can be made to withstand the wear upon them. That the fame of the Salisbury iron for this purpose is well founded has been amply demonstrated by tests carried out by Thurston and others. HISTORY. Iron was mined in Salisbury at least as early as 1734, the pioneer forge, with a capacity of one hundred and fifty pounds of iron for each charge, having been erected in that year in the village of Lime Rock. The ore for it was furnished from the Davis or Forbes pit at Lakeville, then known as the Hendricks. In 1781 a forge had been erected at Mount Riga on the summit plain of the Mount Washington mass, nearly one thousand feet above the mines in the valley. In 1830 the first foundry for remelting pig iron was built at Lime Rock and soon came into the possession of Mr. Milo Barnum, the founder of the Barnum Richardson Company. This company now controls all of the ore that is mined within the Salisbury district proper, and has also an interest in the Richmond Iron Company, which operates the Cone mine in the Richmond district. The mines at Salisbury, which are known as the Old Hill, the Chatfield and the Davis, were acquired by the Barnum Richardson Company, and have now been worked for periods of about one hundred, seventy-five and one hundred and seventy years respectively. Other mines of the region were soon purchased by the company, the greater number being near the eastern, southern or western margins of the great elevated mass situated near the common boundaries of Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York, and generally known as Mount Washington. As time went on the Barnum Richardson Company acquired many other properties in the vicinity, though most of them have now been abandoned and are so flooded with water as to afford few facilities for inspection. Charcoal blast furnaces for the smelting of the Salisbury ores have been situated at Lime Rock, Falls Village, East Canaan, Chapinville, Cornwall Bridge, Huntsville, Amenia, Sharon Valley, Millerton, Mount Riga and Copake, all in or near the mining district....Only the furnaces at Lime Rock, Canaan, Richmond and Van Deusenville are now in use. DISTRIBUTION OF THE MINES. The greater number of the iron mines of the Salisbury district are located either at or near the boundary of the areas of Hudson schist with those of the Stockbridge dolomite. In this regard they have the same position as most of the other limonite deposits which have been opened along the base of the Appalachian Mountain system from Vermont to Alabama. A further fact of distribution which is of much significance is the arrangement of the mines of the Salisbury group about the base of the elevated area of Mount Washington. This mountain mass rises abruptly to heights of sixteen hundred to eighteen hundred feet above the level of the valley surrounding it. Its greatest length is seventeen miles, and its maximum breadth about six miles (see Fig. 11). The more important of the exploited ore beds form a nearly continuous series encircling the mountain mass at its base. As properly included with the group of mines bordering on the Mount Washington mass should be mentioned those which extend southward along the line of the Ten Mile River and the Harlem River Railroad; which mines, with the last nine of the above, form a linear series which may be conveniently termed the Ten Mile series... COMPOSITION OF THE ORES. General Statement. - The ores of the Salisbury district have been described as largely limonite, with which is associated a small amount of turgite, and in variable quantity ores of manganese. From certain of the mines, notably the Ore Hill, Amenia, and Copake mines, the so-called dead-head or white horse has also been mined. This latter material, generally described as iron carbonate, is usually but an impure variety of that mineral, since it generally contains considerable silica and a sericitic or talcose mineral. The superiority of the Salisbury ores is largely to be ascribed to the low content of phosphorus and the high content of manganese; and these qualities are enhanced by the method of smelting in charcoal furnaces. ...individual mines have their peculiarities of composition. The Davis ore is particularly valuable because of its high content of manganese, this is to a less extent true of that from the Ore Hill mine. Richest of all, in this constituent, however, was the black ore of the Chatfield mine, and the genuine manganese ore from the Scoville pit. It thus appears that the ores richest in manganese are distributed in the bodies which occur along the eastern and southeastern base of the Mt. Washington mass. The mine at South Kent was abandoned on account of the high content of phosphorus. The fact that zinc is associated in minute quantities with manganese in nature has been illustrated by the operation of the Salisbury smelters, even though it has not been indicated by the chemical analyses. The tendency of this element to sublime results in its collection in the throats of furnaces, from which it is recovered when the furnaces are blown out. Select Mineral List Type Standard Detailed Gallery Strunz Chemical Elements Localities in this Region A group of goethite mines around the tri-state (CT-MA-NY) border junction that worked what is probably a metamorphosed, lateritic soil horizon formed on the unconformity between the Cambro-Ordovician Stockbridge Marble and the overlying Ordovician Walloomsac Schist. These mines were an important industry for the region and the country during the late 18th until the very early 20th century and fed many iron furnaces in the tri-state area. A map can be found here: https://www.mindat.org/photo-879814.html Most of the literature calls the ore limonite, brown hematite, turgite, etc. because the term goethite was not in prevalent use in North America at that time and because Shepard's 1837 Report on the Geologic Survey of Connecticut used those terms - although the chemical analysis he gives is clearly goethite. All modern references acknowledge the goethite character of the ore.The Salisbury Mine (Ore Hill Mine) in Connecticut was the largest and most important of these mines, and as it is pretty much centrally located in the district, its coordinates are used below for the entire district as well.Shepard's (1837) description:Some basic details from Hobbs (1907): BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. The medical care of Azerbaijani MP Ganira Pashayeva continues, said her relatives said, Trend reports. According to them, Pashayeva's health condition is assessed as moderately stable. The MP fell into a coma from medications and was taken to the Central Clinical Hospital on September 24. There are only four days left in the regular season, so here are some of the top stories entering Thursdays action 1. Orioles on verge of clinching: Four of the six division winners have already been crowned, but the Orioles could join the club with a win over the Red Sox today. Baltimores magic number has dropped to one, so just a single Os win or Rays loss would make the Orioles AL East champions for the first time since 2014, and for just the third time in their last 40 seasons. In addition to a first-place finish in the AL East, the Orioles would also secure the top seed and home-field advantage throughout at least the American Leagues side of the postseason bracket. (At 99-59, the Orioles probably arent catching the 102-56 Braves for the top seed throughout the playoffs.) It was just in 2021 that the Orioles were 52-110 and still seemingly caught in the throes of a rebuild, making their sudden rise back to prominence all the sweeter for Baltimore fans. 2. Rangers and Mariners begin a critical series: The Rangers are also closing in on the AL West, though with a magic number of two and with the Astros not playing on Thursday, Texas wont be able to clinch the division until Friday at the earliest. Still, heading into the start of this big four-game series between the two AL West rivals, the wild card race will also be a focus since the Mariners sit 1.5 games behind Houston for the third and final AL wild card berth. With a 9-16 record in September, the Mariners are no longer in control of their own playoff fate, as theyll have to both pick up at least a couple of wins over Texas and hope for collapses from either the Astros or Blue Jays to sneak into the playoffs as a wild card. If the Mariners sweep Texas, a longshot scenario also exists that would see the Ms still capture the AL West. Jordan Montgomery is the Rangers scheduled starter tonight, while Logan Gilbert will take the hill for the Mariners. 3. Acuna founds the 40-70 club: Okay, so its technically the 41-70 club, and Ronald Acuna Jr. had also been the only person in the 41-68 club, the 40-68 club, the 39-68 club, and so forth. But, since round-number achievements just have a bit more of a ring to them, Acunas incredible season at both the plate and on the basepaths hit yet another big milestone yesterday when he stole his 69th and 70th bases of the season. No player with at least 40 homers in a season had ever stolen as many as 46 bags in the same year before Acuna exponentially raised the bar in 2023. While Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Braves teammate Matt Olson will have something to say in NL MVP voting, Acunas huge season is increasingly looking like the favorite to capture the award. Hitting the 70-steal plateau is also of particular note for a player who suffered a torn ACL just two years ago, making Acunas return to not just his old form but to new stolen-base heights all the more remarkable. MVP results aside, Acunas biggest goal is to help lead the Braves to a championship, as his ACL tear forced him to miss Atlantas run to the 2021 World Series. A Wisconsin company is recalling more than 58,000 pounds of ground beef that could be contaminated with E. coli, officials said. The product was shipped to Michigan, Ohio and Georgia. The problem was discovered when a state public health agency tested a sample of the product and found it was contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) O103, according to a news release from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service. The recall involves 58,281 pounds of ground beef packaged in 10-pound plastic tubes in 80-pound cases. It was produced by American Foods Group, LLC, doing business as Green Bay Dressed Beef, LCC, of Green Bay, Wis. Distributors and other customers who have purchased these products for further processing should not use or sell them. Throw them away or return them to the place of purchase. More than 58,000 pounds of ground beef is being recalled for possible E. coli contamination. This label is an example of the products subject to recall.Provided by U.S. Department of Agriculture The affected raw, ground beef items were produced on Aug. 14, 2023. The following products are subject to recall: Approximately 80-pound cases containing 10-pound plastic tubes (chubs) of 90050 BEEF FINE GROUND 81/19 with lot code D123226026. Bearing establishment number EST. 18076 inside the USDA mark of inspection. Approximately 80-pound cases containing 10-pound plastic tubes (chubs) of 20473 BEEF HALAL FINE GROUND 73/27 with lot code D123226027. Bearing establishment number EST. 18076 inside the USDA mark of inspection. Approximately 80-pound cases containing 10-pound plastic tubes (chubs) of 20105 BEEF FINE GROUND 73/27 with lot code D123226027. Bearing establishment number EST. 18076 inside the USDA mark of inspection. There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. People can become ill from STECs two to eight days after consuming the organism, with the average being three to four days after. Most people infected with STEC O103 develop diarrhea, often bloody, and vomiting. Some illnesses last longer and can be more severe. Infection is usually diagnosed by testing of a stool sample. Vigorous rehydration and other supportive care is the usual treatment. Most people recover within a week, but some develop a more severe infection. Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a type of kidney failure, is uncommon with STEC O103 infection; it can occur in people of any age but is most common in children under 5 years old, older adults and persons with weakened immune systems. It is marked by easy bruising, pallor and decreased urine output. Persons who experience these symptoms should seek emergency medical care. GRAND RAPIDS, MI Former state House Speaker Rick Johnson was sentenced to four years, seven months in federal prison for accepting bribes while he led a state board that granted medical marijuana licenses. Johnson, 70, was sentenced Thursday, Sept. 28, by U.S. District Judge Jane Beckering in Grand Rapids. The prison term was on the upper end of advisory sentencing guidelines. Through his bribery scheme while chair of Michigans now defunct Medical Marijuana Licensing Board, Johnson engaged in an unfettered abuse of power and eroded public trust in government, Beckering said. The longtime politician-turned-lobbyist did so all to pad your pockets, feast on free meals and satisfy your sexual desires, Beckering said. Beckering levied $50,000 in fines against Johnson and an additional $110,200 in forfeiture, which Johnson had previously agreed to in his plea agreement. Johnson, a Republican, served as speaker of the state House of Representatives from 2001 through 2004. He pleaded guilty earlier this year to accepting bribes as part of his role on the marijuana board. While serving as chair of the Medical Marijuana Licensing Board from May 2017 through February 2019, Johnson demanded and received at least $110,200 worth of bribes. In addition to cash payments, the bribes included flights on private aircraft and commercial sex with a woman, according to federal prosecutors. In exchange, federal prosecutors say Johnson gave bribe payers confidential, inside information pertaining to the boards work and other medical marijuana applicants as well as support through the licensing process and favorable votes on license applications. Related: Ex-Michigan House speaker, 3 others to plead guilty in marijuana bribery probe Johnson received a total of 38 cash bribes over roughly his entire tenure as licensing board chair, and it was a plan he had hatched prior to being appointed, Beckering said. He injected corruption into an emerging, promising new industry where getting a head start could make all the difference, U.S. Attorney Mark Totten told reporters following the sentencing. In his address to the court before sentencing, Johnson called himself a corrupt politician for what he did and apologized to his friends, family, community and the state. Johnson said he would work to rebuild the trust people had placed in him. I plan on trying until I do, he said. As part of Johnsons plea deal, his wife was not charged for her alleged involvement in the scheme. Federal prosecutors had asked the court to sentence Johnson to a little under six years in prison. Totten said he was satisfied with the sentence handed down Thursday. Johnsons attorney, Nicholas Dondzila, asked for a sentence of one day over a year in prison, asking Beckering to consider Johnsons long history of public service dating back to 1971, dedication to his family, his age and health, multiple letters of support and his eventual cooperation with the government. When federal investigators first approached Johnson about the scheme once in 2020 and then again in 2021, Johnson lied to them, Beckering said. He later confessed to investigators. Totten said his office takes public corruption seriously, and that its a crime that can be corrosive. For those who play by the rules, theyre left behind or hurt. The public begins to lack confidence in our public institutions and people kind of lose hope in why they might participate in the democratic process, Totten said. I mean, after all, if the way you get ahead is to pay off the person who wields political power, then why participate in those channels of democracy anyways? Johnson is one of four people who face charges in the bribery scheme. The others are Oakland County businessman John Dawood Dalaly and lobbyists Brian Pierce and Vincent Brown. All have pleaded guilty. Prosecutors say Johnson voted to grant medical marijuana licenses for one of Dalalys companies as well as a company represented by both Pierce and Brown between July 2018 and April 2019. Additionally, Johnson provided valuable non-public information about the anticipated rules and operation of the board and assistance with license applications to representatives to Dalaly, Pierce, Brown and others who paid him while serving as chair, according to court filings. Dalaly, who was sentenced earlier this month to a little more than two years in federal prison, admitted to giving Johnson at least $68,000 in cash payments and other benefits. Dalaly pleaded guilty to payment of bribes. Related: Man who bribed former Michigan House speaker in marijuana case sentenced to prison In their pleas, Pierce and Brown said they agreed among themselves and with others to bribe Johnson. Prosecutors say the pair are responsible for at least $42,000 in payments to Johnson. The pair pleaded guilted to conspiracy to commit bribery. Brown and Pierce will be sentenced Oct. 18. Federal prosecutors said the bribery scheme resembled that of a well-orchestrated organized crime operation. Johnson used a burner phone registered in the name of a limited liability company, and bribe payers used an alias for him when referring to him, calling him Batman, using a bat emoji or calling him our friend. Payments to Johnson were laundered through multiple limited liability companies, and Johnson and others devised a cover story should anyone become aware of the payments. Although ultimately laid bare, these machinations served to conceal Johnsons corruption long enough for the damage to be done, giving at least two companies a head start in Michigans new and lucrative marijuana industry, federal prosecutors wrote in the sentencing memorandum. Read more on MLive: 2 Michigan universities are in top-120 in the world, ranking says Fire causes significant damage in U.P. universitys robotics building, but no injuries Student brings gun to John Glenn High School in Bangor Township A story the magnitude of the United Auto Workers strike against the Big Three automakers is a lot like covering a massive storm system you know its coming but you cant know how its going to unfold. Planning for something like this can be both easier and harder than just a regular breaking news item that has no forewarning, said Shannon Murphy, the editor who oversees MLives statewide news coverage. We had time to get our team in place, brainstorm story ideas, write plenty of stories in advance. But we also had a lot of what ifs. When the contract for nearly 150,000 UAW workers nationwide expired at 11:59 p.m. Sept. 14, workers walked out of one facility each of Ford, General Motors and Stellantis, with the GM facility based in Michigan. But last week, 38 more plants went on strike, 13 of them in Michigan. All of the additional strike locations belong to GM and Stellantis. Union leaders indicated Ford was spared in the expansion because negotiations have been positive with that automaker. A lot of our news teams preparation for the strike, when it seemed inevitable, was writing about the issues at the core of union demands to regain benefits lost in past negotiations, close the gap between executive and blue-collar pay, and fundamentally change work conditions. For example, the union is demanding a 32-hour work week. Once the walkouts began, MLive took to the picket sites, interviewing striking workers, union leaders and other supporters about their demands and how the strike is affecting their lives. One of the best things about MLive is our flexibility for pulling people together from various newsrooms and departments when needed, Murphy said. For the first walkout, we only needed our team in Detroit. When more plants walked out a week later, we had our core team ready and had expanded to have robust coverage in Flint, Detroit, Lansing and Ypsilanti. Murphy and her coverage team cant know when this strike ends. The last time the UAW struck, in 2019 against GM, the walkout lasted six weeks and cost the company an estimated $4 billion. In addition to covering the ongoing negotiations, MLive will cover breaking news developments on the ground such as the visits this week to Michigan by President Joe Biden and former president Donald Trump as well as issue stories, such as this piece by reporters Lindsay Moore and Alyssa Burr on the role of electric vehicles in negotiations. Michigan is heavily investing in its auto future with new battery plants and competing for EV projects against the less-unionized South, noted Moore. The EV transition is largely fueling Michigans momentum toward being a tech hub as well. Information from the closed-door negotiations is limited to daily briefings and social media posts from UAW President Shawn Fain and his lieutenants, and from statements issued by the automakers. But there is an undercurrent of commitment and solidarity from the workers on walkout, Murphy said. A lot of UAW workers said they liked Fains approach and spoke about the big wage disparities between newer and veteran workers. They also talked about how they were the ones that helped the Big Three out during the recession in 2008-09, and now the auto companies need to show them the same respect. The strike has obvious economic impacts on the workers and the automakers furloughs and layoffs have begun at auto plants, and parts will begin to dry up for production facilities and auto service centers. But the outcome of the negotiations will have broader effects well into the future. I think we could see a shift in the labor movement, Murphy said. If Fain and the UAW are successful in getting most of their demands met, it would be a big boost for unions everywhere. Weve already seen an increase in successful union organization at places like Starbucks; this could give labor leaders the push to get even more organized. These are some of the what ifs that Murphy alluded to earlier. MLive will cover those, along with all the what is and what it means as this historic strike continues. # # # You can read MLives UAW strike coverage in one place just click here and bookmark to stay up to date with daily developments. To contact MLive Editor John Hiner, email editor@mlive.com. DALLAS -- A Grosse Pointe woman who graduated from University Liggett School in Grosse Pointe Woods last year was killed in a car crash Sunday by an alleged drunk driver in Texas. According to WDIV-Detroit, Honor Wallace, 19, was traveling in a vehicle with another person when 27-year-old Lynlee Pollis allegedly ran a red light and hit the car Wallace was in. Pollis is accused of being intoxicated during the crash and has been charged with intoxication manslaughter and intoxication assault. Pollis and another person inside the vehicle Wallace was traveling in suffered minor injuries in the crash, but both survived. CBS News in Dallas reports that police say Pollis admitted to drinking a margarita before getting behind the wheel and that she is also on medication for ADHD. Wallace was a student at Southern Methodist University just outside of Dallas. ANTRIM COUNTY, MI A Michigan man is accused of abusing a seven-week-old infant. Ryan Matthew Fraser, 39, of Kalkaska has been charged with first degree child abuse and possession methamphetamine. He was arrested on Wednesday. Michigan State Police in Gaylord began investigating Fraser in April after the infant was taken to the emergency room at Kalkaska Memorial Health Center and then Helen Devos Childrens Hospital in Grand Rapids with severe injuries. The childs mother told medical personnel that the child rolled off a couch, but the injuries were not consistent with an incident of that nature, police said. Search warrants were executed at a 5th wheel camper in Mancelona where the mother and her boyfriend had been staying. Detectives recovered remnants of broken glass that were once glass pipes used for smoking methamphetamine and baggies containing methamphetamine residue. Fraser was then developed as a suspect in the infants injuries, according to police. He is lodged in the Antrim County Jail. A warrant was issued for the mother, a 21-year-old from Kalkaska, for possession of methamphetamine. She was arrested on Sept. 18, arraigned on Sept. 19 and released. She failed to appear for her probable cause hearing this week, police said. READ MORE: Fire causes significant damage in U.P. universitys robotics building, but no injuries Fire scare that evacuated MSU Union was really just an optical illusion Man arrested after long standoff allegedly threatened to burn, attack buildings in Traverse City HOWELL, MI - The firearm used in the June fatal shooting of a Howell toddler was not secured, police said. Officers from the Howell Police Department and Livingston County Sheriffs Office were called to the 1900 block of Oak Squire Lane in Howell shortly before 6 p.m. June 11, for a report of the shooting. A 2-year-old had gained access to an unsecured gun in the home, resulting in the accidental shooting, police said, adding the child was taken to a local hospital and later pronounced dead. Read more: Police investigating after Michigan 2-year-old killed in shooting Tonya Lacey, 41, was charged Sept. 27 with second-degree felony child abuse for failing to safely secure the firearm, according to the Howell Police Department. This was a tragic accident caused by an adult failing to properly secure a firearm that sadly made its way into the hands of a curious 2-year-old child, Howell police said in a release. Lacey was alone at home with the child when the incident occurred, police said. The father of the child was not at home, police said, and the firearm involved was not registered or connected to him. The case is being reviewed by the Livingston County Prosecutors Office, police said. We hope that this incident will help intensify the need to ensure that firearms are safely secured and out of the reach of children, police said in the release. 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 MLive: Amazon delivery truck catches fire in Ann Arbor driveway Driver threatens 68-year-old woman with pipe, drill during road rage incident Of Rice and Men restaurant closes in downtown Ann Arbor Updated policy allows students at this Michigan school to opt out of controversial material A partnership between tourism development groups in the Florida Panhandle will result in the creation of the second largest artificial reef in the area when the 239-foot research vessel R/V DEEP STIM III is sunk in October. Officials say the deployment, or sinking, is a boon for divers and fishermen alike. According to Destin-Fort Walton Beach tourism officials, the vessel will be deployed centrally between the three destinations which partnered on the project -- Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Panama City Beach and Walton County. Additionally, Emerald Coast Reef Association and South Walton Artificial Reef Association provided funding for additional reef modules to be placed on the deck of the vessel, while the Coastal Conservation Association is funding the towing fees necessary for the project. This former oil exploration vessel, the R/V DEEP STIM III, will be deployed off the Florida Panhandle to become what will be the 2nd-largest artificial reef in the area. The Okaloosa County Tourist Development council in February approved funds from a tourism bed-tax for this next phase of the five-year artificial reef plan, according to the Panama City News Herald. The project, including the acquisition, prep work, towing and deployment, is estimated to cost $750,000. The water surrounding our collective region boasts an abundance of opportunities for fishing and diving activities, so it only makes sense that we work together to protect and grow the unique experiences that set us apart, said Alex Fogg, Coastal Resource Manager for Destin-Fort Walton Beach. Collaborative projects like this will open the door for future opportunities that continue to benefit locals, visitors and the environment. The R/V DEEP STIM III is a former offshore supply vessel used in oil exploration. At 239-feet, it will be the second largest deployed off Floridas Emerald Coast. Once deployment occurs, it will sit at a depth of about 70 feet at the top of the wheelhouse, to 135 feet at the sand bottom -- accessible to a wide range of divers of varying skill levels. The new artificial reef will also serve as a fishing location, providing habitat for popular species such as amberjack, officials said. The reef modules which will be added to the vessels deck are designed to attract additional species including grouper and snapper. The vessel is set to be deployed in what is known as Large Area Artificial Reef Site A, 22 miles from Destin East Pass, 29 miles from St. Andrews Pass and 16.5 miles south of Walton County. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. A regular meeting of members of the commission established to monitor and assess the current situation with the villagers of Azerbaijan's Soyudlu village (Gadabay district), who have been protesting against the creation of an artificial lake in the area, has been held, Trend reports. The results of monitoring conducted by Micon International Monitoring Company were presented during the meeting. Mukhtar Babayev, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan, is the chairman of the commission. The Commission includes Chairman of the State Water Resources Agency, Deputy Minister of Health, Deputy Minister of Emergency Situations, Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Head of the Industry and Energy Department of the Cabinet of Ministers' Office, Head of the State Property Service under the Ministry of Economy and Head of the Executive Authority of Gadabay district. Previously, a group of individuals tried to hold a protest action against the construction of an artificial lake in Soyudlu on June 20. A commission was established to study the case, and was tasked to monitor and assess the current situation, as well as to ensure consideration of citizens' appeals in the field of health and environmental protection. DEARBORN, MI A third suspect has been charged with murder related to the death of a 29-year-old Michigan man who was robbed and fatally shot in Dearborn last week, authorities said. Hassan Salami, 29, of Dearborn Heights, was found by Dearborn Police officers around 9:27 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 19, in the 16350 block of Ford Road. He was lying on the ground suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. An investigation by Dearborn Police has led to arrests and charges against three defendants. Travon Green, 24, of Detroit, is charged with felony murder, first-degree murder and two counts of felony firearm. It is alleged that Green robbed and killed the victim. Green was arraigned and remanded to jail on Tuesday by 19th District Court before Judge Mark Somers. Green is due back in court Friday. RELATED: 2 accused of mugging, murder of 29-year-old Michigan man Lindsay Thurmond, 27, of Detroit, and Quenton Goston, 29, of Melvindale, are also both charged in connection with Salamis death. It is alleged that they took part in the robbery and homicide. Thurmond and Goston were both charged on Friday, Sept. 22, with felony murder and first-degree murder; they were arraigned and remanded to jail by Judge Somers. They are due back in court on Friday. MARQUETTE COUNTY, MI -- Marquette County Circuit Court Judge Charles W. Johnson sentenced a Trenary man to a minimum of 22 years in prison after he was convicted on charges of torture, first-degree criminal sexual conduct and more. According to WLUC-6, Branden Klyk, 34, was sentenced Thursday to up to 40 years in prison and will not be eligible for parole until has served at least 22 years in prison. Following a four-day trial in July, Klyk was convicted on the torture and CSC charges, along with charges of unlawful imprisonment, domestic violence and two counts of assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder by strangulation. The charges were in connection with an assault that took place in June 2022 in K.I. Sawyer at a home in the 100 block of Fury Street at the decommissioned Air Force base. Marquette County Prosecutor Matt Wiese said the sentences on the various convictions will be served concurrently. Klyk is also required to register as a sex offender and is subject to electronic monitoring for the rest of his life. During the trial Klyk was found not guilty of a charge of larceny from a building. WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - After a series of widespread and prolonged blackouts, a congresswoman representing the Ann Arbor area is convening a townhall meeting to listen to residents concerns. U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Ann Arbor, is holding the gathering alongside Michigan Public Service Commission Chair Dan Scripps and local officials. Its scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5 at the Towsley Auditorium at Washtenaw Community Colleges Morris Lawrence Building, 4800 E. Huron River Drive. There have been too many of these incidents recently of the utilities failing, Dingell said in a statement. The last years incidents of power outages have left many with concerns, frustrations and questions. This is a public meeting to give them an opportunity to voice those concerns and know they are being heard. Read more: In DTE Energy Bermuda Triangle, Washtenaw County couple clocks 18 outages in a year At the meeting, the Public Service Commission will give a brief presentation on its role in providing oversight of the states utilities, according to Dingells office. The event will also be livestreamed via the Facebook page for the congresswoman, who represents most of Washtenaw County and parts of Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties. Its not the only public forum in recent months that has focused on the topic of power reliability from the states largest utilities, like DTE Energy and Consumers Energy. Ann Arbor for Public Power, a grassroots group trying to convince Ann Arbor officials to form a city-owned utility to replace DTE locally, organized a gathering in late July after storms knocked out power for thousands in Washtenaw County. Read more: We do not have to live like this. Ann Arborites air frustrations over DTE outages Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County leaders have both called on utilities to boost the electric grids resiliency this year following February ice storms that left some residents without power for days, spoiling food and leading some to flee their homes for hotels. DTE, the states largest utility, has told Ann Arbor officials to expect a dramatically different grid in the coming years, hardened against outages through millions in infrastructure upgrades, tree-trimming and automation. Consumers has made similar promises, aiming for less widespread outages lasting no longer than 24 hours. Utility representatives are not scheduled to be part of the programming at the Oct. 5 townhall meeting, according to Dingells office. 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: Ann Arbor digging in deeper on costs of DTE takeover versus alternatives Ann Arbor takeover of DTE could cost city up to $1.15 billion, study finds Ann Arbor Public Schools needs to change its narrative to find a good leader, search firm says Judge sides with township in case over livestock at historic Washtenaw County farmstead ANN ARBOR, MI - The Michigan teen accused of killing a man on I-94 in Washtenaw County was deemed fit to stand trial. Kendall Newbern, 17, was considered competent in a Sept. 28 competency exam hearing in front of Judge J. Cedric Simpson in the 14A District Court. GENESEE COUNTY, MI Five people accused of operating storefront casinos in Davison and Burton were recently arraigned on 31 charged in Genesee County District Court following a joint investigation by the Michigan Department of Attorney General and the Michigan Gaming Control Board. Joseph Toporek and Mary Larkin are each charged with three felony counts for running a gambling operation without a license and using computers to commit a crime as well as one high court misdemeanor for maintaining a gambling house for gain and one misdemeanor for keeping a gambling house, according to a Thursday, Sept. 28 news release. The AGs office also authorized charges against Shaun Bellah II, Shaun Bellah Sr., and Ghazwan Brikho. Those three defendants face five felony counts for conducting a criminal enterprise, conspiracy to conduct a criminal enterprise, running a gambling operation without a license and using computers to commit a crime, one high court misdemeanor for maintaining a gambling house for gain and one misdemeanor for keeping a gambling house. Accountability is crucial when it comes to upholding justice and ensuring a fair and honest gaming environment in the state of Michigan, said MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams. While the Michigan Gaming Control Board will continue to hold those who choose to circumvent the law accountable for their actions, we also acknowledge the importance of fairness, equality, and the presumption of innocence until proven otherwise. We operate with integrity and our investigators remain committed to the foundations of due process that protects the rights of all individuals involved. The charges, filed in August and September, stem from an investigation that began in April, according to the press release. Officials confiscated 100 gambling devices, $29,204 in suspected gambling profit, and 62 gift cards of varying denominations during raids conducted at The State Road Spot, 723 South State Road in Davison, and The Bristol Spot, located at 1374 East Bristol Road in Burton, authorities said. Each of the defendants have been arraigned and subsequently released on personal recognizance bonds. 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: Burton City Council calls on mayor to cooperate with investigation into police department Accused killer of Flint 7-year-old has charges dropped after witness refuses to cooperate Several injured after UAW strikers hit by vehicle FLINT, MI -- Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley may still be in line for a raise from his current annual salary of $125,000 but he fell just short of getting an extra $20,000 on Wednesday, Sept. 27. The citys Local Officers Compensation Commission voted 3-0 on Wednesday, with one member abstaining, to award the raise to Neeley, falling one vote short of the four needed for the action to stand. In the same meeting, the commission voted unanimously not to award any salary increase to members of the City Council, which has been deeply divided and routinely struggled to work through its business throughout this year. Commission member Martin Banks said Neeley should receive a raise based on the increase in the cost of living since he was first elected in 2019 and because of his job performance. The mayor has not had a raise and I think we need to get the city back on the map to be taken more seriously, Banks said. But other commission members said they needed additional information, comparing Flints compensation of elected officials with those in comparable positions elsewhere in Michigan. Neeley hasnt received a pay increase since he was sworn into office. The current $125,000 mayoral salary was set by the commission in 2018 during the administration of former Mayor Karen Weaver. Flints charter established the compensation commission to set the salary of the mayor and nine members of the City Council, who earn $25,000 per year. The council president receives $27,500. The mayor appoints members to the commission subject to City Council approval. The commissions actions on salaries take effect 30 days following its vote. The charter authorizes the City Council to reject the commissions action but only if two-thirds of members vote to do so. Commission member Karen Lopez abstained from voting on the proposed pay raise for the mayor, saying better information is needed before the commission should consider the issue again. Member George Hamo said the mayors salary cant continue to increase as the number of people living here continues to decrease. The salary our mayor is receiving at this point in time ... seems more than appropriate based on the population, said Hamo, who attended the meeting virtually but did not vote because he was not physically present. 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: Not so fast, judge tells Genesee County commissioners about plan to close satellite courts Recall targeting Flint councilwoman rejected but replacement language submitted Flint project calls for tax break, 16 new homes near Hurley Medical Center GRAND BLANC, MI Great Harvest Bread Company lovers can purchase some of their favorite goods and support a good cause while doing so this weekend. Great Harvest Bread Company in Grand Blanc is hosting a fundraiser to support local blood cancer patients and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Societys signature event in Detroit, Light the Night. The fundraiser will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 1 at the shop, located at 252 Perry Road in Grand Blanc. Scott Sassack, co-owner of Great Harvest Bread Company in Grand Blanc, is hosting the fundraiser with Rick Gumbleton, in honor of Gumbletons late wife, Lisa Hoffman-Gumbleton, a Grand Blanc native and former teacher who passed away in 2019 after a long battle with Leukemia. Gumbleton is on the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Board of Trustees for the Michigan chapter and an executive committee member for Light the Night. What were hoping to get out of this is just to bring awareness, let people know what the Leukemia (and) Lymphoma Society can do, Gumbleton said. Also, to bring money in and continue the good work that the (society) is doing. Hoffman-Gumbleton was a teacher at Meyers Elementary and in the Grand Blanc School District for 27 years. Gumbleton said he and Hoffman-Gumbleton met in 2011, one year before she was diagnosed with Leukemia. From her diagnosis to when she passed away nearly seven years later, Gumbleton said Hoffman-Gumbleton had a positive attitude through it all, undergoing chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant. She never quit, she never stopped fighting, Gumbleton said. She was our doctors little miracle child for years, but she finally succumbed because they had to keep lowering her immune system defenses. Sassack met Hoffman-Gumbleton when his daughters were going to school at Meyers Elementary in Grand Blanc. Once Sassack heard about Hoffman-Gumbletons diagnosis, he hosted a fundraiser for her in 2013 at the shop. Proceeds went toward her medical costs and a scholarship fund for Grand Blanc students in her honor. Related: Community rallies around Grand Blanc teacher fighting leukemia to create student scholarships Sassack said he grew close to the couple after the fundraiser and stayed in contact with Gumbleton after Hoffman-Gumbleton passed away. Earlier this year, Sassack and Gumbleton decided to put on another fundraiser to honor Hoffman-Gumbleton and raise awareness for blood cancer. Its a great way just to rally everybody in the community up and kind of support one another and those that are in need of help, Sassack said. During the event, Sassack said the shop will bake four different breads, selling 50-75 loafs of each kind, 750-1,000 cookies and possibly cinnamon rolls. All proceeds will be donated to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. In addition to selling baked goods, there will be a raffle drawing to raise money for the cause. To help host the fundraiser, Sassack and Gumbleton are also working with Mallory Slusser, Light the Night campaign development manager for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Slusser is a Flint native and Leukemia survivor. Slusser said she was diagnosed with Leukemia in 2015 and received a bone marrow transplant a year later. Around that same time, Slusser reached out to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. She said they provided her with financial support and connected her with a survivor of the same age range and diagnosis. Slusser said she got involved with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society when she was asked to be a part of the Honored Hero Program. From there, she eventually started her role as campaign development manager. Slusser met Gumbleton at the Light the Night walk last year in Detroit, a Leukemia and Lymphoma Society event, honoring and remembering those affected by blood cancer. I love Rick, Slusser said. Ricks wife passed away of the same diagnosis that I had. And so, obviously it hit close to home Im from Flint, I grew up in Flint. Although she never had the chance to meet Hoffman-Gumbleton, Slusser said she learned about her through Gumbleton. From what Rick has told me, she was a great teacher and a great friend and a great wife, Slusser said. During the walk, participants can hold different colored lanterns, signifying their relationship with blood cancer. Slusser said red lanterns show support for blood cancer patients, families and caregivers, gold lanterns are to remember someone who passed away from cancer and white lanterns are for patients or survivors. Slusser said this fundraiser is important to her because of the way the community in Flint, Grand Blanc and Davison rallied around her while she was sick. That fundraiser, I think we had, was in 2016, Slusser said. Through that and through the community there, I was able to keep my house. I wasnt able to work for an entire full year, and at the time, being just a single person by myself, that was definitely a worry. So, like I said, just so thankful to the community that we have there that helped me to be able to really truly be where Im at today. Want more Flint-area news? Bookmark the local Flint news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Flint daily newsletter. Read more from The Flint Journal: Delta Sigma Theta Sorority hosting diversity in reading celebration at Flint library Free breast cancer screenings to be offered by Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute Elected officials, community partners promote voter registration in Genesee County Genesee County receives $5M in federal funds to plant trees, help combat climate crisis OTTAWA COUNTY, MI A group of Republican commissioners who hold the majority on the Ottawa County board is apparently conducting closed door meetings to discuss county business. Although they arent meeting with a quorum of the board, the commissioners who are part of the far-right Ottawa Impact group may still be violating state law which protects the publics access to the decision-making process. GRAND RAPIDS, MI A 65-year-old man was convicted on all charges Thursday afternoon for the 1996 murder of a pregnant mother in Grand Rapids. A jury found Garry Artman guilty of open murder, felony murder and first-degree criminal sexual conduct for the 1996 killing of 29-year-old Sharon Hammack. HILLSDALE, MI - Pat Sajak, host of Wheel of Fortune and chairman of its Board of Trustees, will give the 2024 spring graduation keynote speech at Hillsdale College. Sajak, a Hillsdale College trustee since 2002, has served as chairman of the private conservative Christian colleges board since 2019. He will speak during the May 11 commencement ceremony. Pat Sajak gave a wonderful convocation speech some years ago, Hillsdale College President Larry Arnn said in a statement. He has done long and excellent service for our college, and he has a serious understanding of and commitment to it. I expect his remarks will be worthy of the occasion. Sajak has hosted Wheel of Fortune for more than 7,000 episodes, longer than any program in the history of American television, officials said. This is his last season as host, he announced in June. Sajak also served on the board at the Claremont Institute in California when Arnn headed it, officials said. Previous commencement speakers include former Vice President Mike Pence, psychologist Dr. Jordan Peterson, Catholic Bishop Robert Barron and comedian Tim Allen. Read more from MLive: Donations soar 85 percent at Trump-supporting Michigan college since 2017 Nude David statue fracas in Florida prompts Hillsdale College to sever ties with school These 2 Michigan colleges are among the 100 most selective in U.S., federal data shows BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Employees of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Azerbaijan continue search and rescue operations following the fire that arose after the explosion at a gas station near the city of Khankendi, Trend reports. The fire at the gas station near Azerbaijan's Khankendi was extinguished in a short time by the personnel of the State Fire Protection Service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations. The explosion occurred on September 25, leaving dead and injured peple. In order to carry out search and rescue and other necessary security measures in connection with the incident, on September 27, another 10 special purpose vehicles of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Azerbaijan and 50 personnel were sent along the Aghdam-AskeranKhankendi road. KALAMAZOO, MI -- Police are searching for a vehicle seen leaving the scene of a double shooting that left one man dead. About 10:53 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 28, Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety (KDPS) officers responded to a shooting on the 900 block of W. Lovell Street. Upon arrival, officers located two males that were shot and immediately began life-saving measures. On arrival, officers located Tyrone Jerome Potts, a 35-year-old Kalamazoo man, critically wounded by gunfire and another victim suffering from several gunshot wounds. Potts was transported to an area hospital and pronounced dead a short time later, police said. KDPS is looking for a white Dodge Journey with Michigan license plate 7PJS08 that was seen leaving the scene of the shooting. Police said this is a vehicle of interest. Detectives were seen investigating in and around a Jeep SUV in the parking lot of Circle K gas station, 943 W. Lovell St. Several officers and police vehicles were on scene along with the mobile crime lab. Officers were seen placing evidence markers in the area and a portion of West Lovell Street was closed while police investigated. The case is an active and ongoing investigation, police said. It does not appear to be a random shooting, police said. Detectives are asking anyone with information about this incident or any other criminal activity to call the KDPS Criminal Investigation Division at 269-337-8139 to speak with a detective. Information can also be provided anonymously through the Kalamazoo Silent Observer tip line at 269-343-2100, the P3Tips app, or online at www.KalamazooSilentObserver.com. Kalamazoo College went on a brief lockdown, police said, although it is now back open. The school is in the area where the shooting was reported. Western Michigan University did not go under lockdown. This marks the 17th homicide in the city this year, according to police records. 10 1 / 10 2 people shot at Circle K gas station in Kalamazoo Brad Devereaux 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: 5 corn mazes to get lost in this fall in Southwest Michigan He just reacted: Man who died trying to save child from drowning gets hero award $600M lawsuit is unfounded in fact and law, city of Kalamazoo says in response Stolen property falls off trailer as thieves escape; investigation leads troopers to meth 16-year-old girl dies after being hit by car in Southwest Michigan Fisherman drowns in Southwest Michigan after kayak overturns Update (4:35 p.m.): One person has died, and police are searching for a vehicle of interest KALAMAZOO, MI -- Police are investigating a shooting in which two people were shot Thursday morning, Sept. 28, according to a department spokesman. The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety responded to a shooting at the 900 block of West Lovell Street. Police did not give a specific time. Officers are on scene investigating and the case is an open/active investigation, Public Information Officer Jay Shatara said. The condition of the two people shot was not immediately available, Shatara said. Police were at the Circle K gas station at the corner of West Lovell Drive and Oakland Drive and blocked access to the business parking lot with crime scene tape. West Lovell was closed just west of the intersection, and vehicles were being detoured around the scene. Police were looking in and around an SUV parked at the location. Kalamazoo College went on a brief lockdown, police said, although it is now back open. The school is in the area where the shooting was reported. Western Michigan University is just west of Kalamazoo College, so its slightly further from the incident scene. WMU never went into lockdown, a spokesperson confirmed. Police are asking anyone with information about this case to call the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Division at 269-337-8139 to speak with a detective. Information can also be provided anonymously through the Kalamazoo Silent Observer tip line at 269-343-2100, the P3Tips app, or online at www.KalamazooSilentObserver.com. 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: 5 corn mazes to get lost in this fall in Southwest Michigan He just reacted: Man who died trying to save child from drowning gets hero award $600M lawsuit is unfounded in fact and law, city of Kalamazoo says in response Stolen property falls off trailer as thieves escape; investigation leads troopers to meth 16-year-old girl dies after being hit by car in Southwest Michigan Fisherman drowns in Southwest Michigan after kayak overturns KALAMAZOO, MI -- Responding to a federal lawsuit that alleges city of Kalamazoo officials colluded with Graphic Packaging International to cover up air quality issues, an attorney for the city is arguing the complaint against Kalamazoo officials should be dismissed. Current and former Kalamazoo residents filed a $600 million federal lawsuit in June that blames government and company officials for the toxic gas found in neighborhoods. Kimberly Scott is the attorney representing the city of Kalamazoo, Mayor David Anderson, Kalamazoo City Manager Jim Ritsema, former Commissioner Jack Urban, and Public Services Director James Baker. She filed a response to the lawsuit on Aug. 28. She argues the plaintiffs have not established a nuisance exists. The city has been working tirelessly for years to address concerns regarding emissions and odors created by GPI and other industrial activities as well as odors around (the city wastewater plant), where the entire citys wastewater is sent for treatment, Scott wrote. Residents have complained about a bad smell in neighborhoods north of downtown for years. The state announced earlier this year the smell is linked to toxic gas, and the amount regularly measured in the air around the Graphic Packaging paper mill and the city wastewater treatment plant is a health hazard. Related: 2 schools, a day care and toxic gas: Parent worries escalate as state confirms health hazards The federal lawsuit alleges the defendants colluded and collaborated to keep Northeast Kalamazoos deteriorating ambient air quality and environmental racism issues a secret. The answer filed by Scott denies that claim. Plaintiffs claims that the city is colluding with GPI to purposely pollute a portion of Kalamazoo are unfounded in fact and law, Scott wrote in the filing. Graphic Packaging, at about 8 a.m. Thursday, May 12, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The factory is a source of hydrogen sulfide. The city wastewater treatment plant is another source of the hazardous gas. Related: Health, odor and air quality concerns raised for years in Kalamazoo, even before factory was approved to expand The city is dedicated to ensuring residents have clean air, Scott wrote, and it has taken steps like investing in its facilities. The city is wholeheartedly committed to addressing concerns about environmental justice, the federal lawsuit filing says. Scott argues the plaintiffs can not make a nuisance claim against the city based on GPIs emissions because the city did not create that nuisance and doesnt own or control the private company. Mayor David Anderson listens in to public comment during the City Commission Meeting in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Monday, Jan. 3, 2022. Reflected is City Manager Jim Ritsema. They are both named as defendants in a federal lawsuit related to air quality issues in Kalamazoo along with other defendants. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell | MLive.com The plaintiffs attorney responded to city officials in court on Sept. 17. Attorney John R. Beason III argues the plaintiffs injuries are actual, imminent and not conjecture, and they have properly established their standing to sue. The lawsuit mentions an approximately $600 million expansion of Graphic Packaging in Kalamazoo, which received local support in the form of a tax break approved by the City Commission in 2021. Related: Expanding Kalamazoo factory gets one-year tax break from city commission The filing outlines discrimination allegations against the city, including that the city enforced ordinances against Black residents, but not against GPI. The city managers office said on Wednesday it would not provide further comment on the pending litigation. The lawsuit also names other officials as defendants, including former Mayor Bobby Hopewell, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and State Sen. Sean McCann, plus officials at state environmental and health agencies. The suit also names Graphic Packaging International and employees, Paul W. McCann and Tom Olstad, as defendants. On Sept. 15, the court said Graphic Packaging and company officials, as well Whitmer and other defendants, have until Sept. 29 to respond to the complaint. In a June statement sent to MLive/Kalamazoo Gazette, a company spokesman said GPI would not comment on pending litigation outside of court. We are proud of our work and our record in Kalamazoo and take very seriously our responsibility as a good neighbor, community partner and employer to 750 people at our Kalamazoo mill, the company said. GPI said previously it has invested millions of dollars in facility improvements and monitoring to address environmental concerns, and the company will keep working to promote the health and well-being of its neighbors. 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: Toxic sludge gas near homes targeted in Kalamazoo wastewater chemical trial 5 corn mazes to get lost in this fall in Southwest Michigan He just reacted: Man who died trying to save child from drowning gets hero award Contamination cleanup at old Kalamazoo paper mill site to stretch into 2026 Stolen property falls off trailer as thieves escape; investigation leads troopers to meth 16-year-old girl dies after being hit by car in Southwest Michigan Fisherman drowns in Southwest Michigan after kayak overturns KALAMAZOO, MI A controversial proposal for a giant car wash near Asylum Lake Preserve is headed back before Kalamazoos planning commission this December. Nearly four years after an unsuccessful bid to rezone the property from residential to community commercial, the property owner, Indiana-based Drive & Shine LLC, has again submitted a request for rezoning. SAGINAW, MI A Saginaw woman is to spend more than a year in prison for embezzling more than a million dollars from her disabled mother. On top of that, she owes more than $100,000 in restitution. Her attorney, though, maintains his client had no criminal intent to defraud her mother. Saginaw County Circuit Judge Darnell Jackson on Sept. 21 sentenced 60-year-old Valda A. Cork to 15 months to 20 years in prison. He gave her credit for one day served in the local jail. Jackson further ordered Cork to reimburse her mothers estate and the Michigan Department of Treasury to the tune of $196,394.96. He also ordered her to pay $198 in fines and costs within 60 days. Cork in June pleaded guilty to one count of embezzling $100,000 or more from a vulnerable adult, a 20-year felony. In exchange, the Michigan Attorney Generals Office dismissed a second count of the same charge and two counts of failing to pay taxes or filing a false tax return, a five-year felony. Cork was represented by defense attorney Alan A. Crawford. There is a very thin line between criminal intent and financial illiteracy, said Corks defense attorney, Alan A. Crawford. I dont believe Valda Cork had any type of intent to defraud or steal from her mother. Thats not within her soul. He said Cork made some mistakes in her finances, but due to the amount involved, they did not feel comfortable taking the case before a jury. While Crawford said he was appreciative of Jacksons sentence, he does not feel Cork deserved a prison term. It doesnt feel necessary for her to go to prison for bad bookkeeping or bad accounting, he said. Thats not fair or just. Cork in 2018 was appointed the legal guardian and conservator of her mother after she suffered several strokes that left her unable to care for herself, prosecutors alleged. Over a one-year period, Cork spent about $1.1 million of her mothers money, Attorney General Dana Nessel alleged. This spending included $228,817 Cork allegedly did not report to Saginaw County Probate Court and $664,872 she used to buy a condo in Pompano Beach, Florida. Cork did not have court authorization to buy the condo, Nessel alleged. Cork allegedly purchased the condo through a ladybird deed, allowing her to inherit the condo when her mother died without having to go through probate, thereby preventing her siblings from inheriting any part of it. After the probate court appointed a new guardian and conservator for Corks mother, the condo was sold, and the proceeds were paid back to her mothers estate. Restitution is less than the amount Cork embezzled because of the condos sale and because Cork already paid back $100,000 after the probate court ordered a forensic evaluation of her conservatorship, Nessel said. BANGOR TWP, MI A Bangor Township high school was briefly placed in secure mode after a student showed up with a gun. About 7:49 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 28, a student at John Glenn High School alerted authorities and school resource officer Deputy Dustin Box that a classmate had brought a gun to school. Additional deputies responded to the school at 3201 Kiesel Road. Both the high school and middle school were placed in secure mode. Deputies found a handgun in the locker of a 14-year-old male pupil, Bay County Sheriffs Lt. James Chlebowski said. They arrested the teen and lodged him in the Bay County Juvenile Home. No one was injured, Chlebowski added. Deputies are investigating if the teen made any actual threats and what his intention was in bringing the gun to school. The school resumed normal operations by 11 a.m. The District acted swiftly and in accordance with all the stringent measures we have in place to safeguard all our students and staff, Bangor Township Schools Superintendent Matthew Schmidt said. Students and/or staff were not targeted or threatened at any time. The student will be subject to school board policy and appropriate laws that govern weapons on school grounds, Schmidt said. Once deputies finish their investigation, theyll forward their reports to the Bay County Prosecutors Office for review. Chlebowski lauded the actions of Deputy Box and the student who spoke up. Schmidt urged parents to talk to their children about the incident to prevent future occurrences. Please discuss this incident with your children and emphasize that it is against the law to bring weapons of any type to school, he said. Also, please emphasize the importance of telling ... a staff member if there is a weapon in school. I am proud that this situation was reported to district staff immediately this morning. Because of this, we were able to work through the situation and keep our school safe. Earlier this year, a 16-year-old Bay City Central High School student allegedly left two handwritten threats taped to the schools doors. After police identified him, prosecutors charged him as a juvenile with making an intentional threat to commit an act of violence against a school, school employees, or students. Bangor Township Schools Superintendent Matt Schmidt did not immediately return calls from MLive seeking comment. LANSING, MI Democratic lawmakers, with no votes to spare, advanced legislation Wednesday to expand voting overseas in a way that worries election security experts. The legislature last year passed a law to allow military members to vote electronically, but House Bill 4210 approved by the chamber on a party-line, 56-to-54 vote expands that to include spouses and voting-age dependents. While living in a foreign country can be a grand adventure, families sacrifice a lot, said Rep. Christine Morse, D-Texas Township. They should not be sacrificing their sacred constitutional right to vote as a result. Morse lived on a military base in Japan with her husband from 2006 to 2009, and she said her vote in the 2008 general election was not counted. This is not uncommon. In the last presidential election, per federal data, 4.6% of Michigan military and overseas ballots were rejected for reasons that include returning too late via mail. In that election overall, less than 1% of absentee ballots were rejected. Related: Military voting access boosted with new Michigan election law Democrats argue electronic voting for military spouses, who are mostly women, ensures they have more opportunity to exercise their voting rights. But election security experts say introducing the internet to elections is dangerous. If the system is compromised, it means a crisis of confidence in our entire democracy, says C.Jay Coles, a policy expert at Verified Voting, a nonpartisan organization advocating for responsible use of technology in elections. Coles told MLive the consequences of voting electronically could further erode trust in elections by making Michigans entire voting system vulnerable to sophisticated foreign hackers if they can crack the new electronic piece. Were talking the potential to alter voted ballots and vote counts at a large scale, Coles said. In 2020, a commission of election officials and experts appointed by Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson specifically recommended avoiding electronic overseas ballot return, because there is no available technology that is adequately secure at the present time. [T]here is no method to reliably secure the ballot all the way to the local jurisdiction, commissioners wrote. HB 4210 requires Bensons office to create a system by Sept. 1, 2025, that includes the appropriate security features to ensure and verify the integrity and secrecy of electronically voted ballots. Specific requirements include that the signature on the electronically returned ballot must match the signature on file and that voters must also mail a physical ballot to their local clerk. A majority of states have implemented electronic voting systems, and theyre not without safeguards. Colorado, for example, requires clerks to print the electronically returned ballot and run that through a tabulator, creating an auditable paper trail. But any type of electronic ballot return, Coles said, essentially means the voter is giving up their ballot privacy. Then theres the risk of hacking. After Washington, D.C., implemented an electronic ballot return system about a decade ago, a team at the University of Michigan led by professor and nationally recognized cybersecurity expert J. Alex Halderman needed only 48 hours to remotely hack and change every vote before they could be printed. The bedrock of Michigan elections has long been the simple fact that every vote is cast on a piece of paper which cant later be changed in any kind of cyber attack, Halderman told the House elections committee in May. Flashback: Security concerns raised over internet voting for Michigan military spouses If not internet voting, what should be done instead to make voting easier for military spouses overseas? Coles says conversations with the U.S. Postal Service and the Defense Department might lead to solutions like expedited return of ballots or free postage. You have to start from where the problem is, Coles said. You cant jump over the problem and the solution to that problem and just end up at internet voting. Because internet voting isnt the answer, according to literally all the experts. HB 4210 must now clear a Senate committee and the full Senate, both controlled by Democrats like the House, to become law with Gov. Gretchen Whitmers signature. The governor said in a statement Wednesday she supports the bill. The bill is also supported by Michigans associations of county and municipal clerks. The state Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is neutral. When voters decided to expand voting rights in 2018 and again in 2022 through citizen-led petition initiatives, they did so unconstitutionally 11 Republican state lawmakers argued as part of a lawsuit filed Thursday. As a result, Sen. Jonathan Lindsey, R-Coldwater, and Rep. Steve Carra, R-Three Rivers, said they and nine other officials were seeking to invalidate these two changes and do away with petition initiatives that bypass the Michigan legislature altogether when they pertain to state election law. They argue the move violated Article 1, Section 4, Clause 1 of the U.S. Constitution, which allows state legislatures to set the time, place and manner of conducting elections. For years, leftist activist had tried to get the Michigan legislature to pass laws making our elections more vulnerable. Failing, they decided to try to use an end-around, unconstitutional process, Lindsey said during an early morning Zoom call Sept. 28. They used a ballot measure process that did not involve the legislature whatsoever, despite the option to do so and in despite of the federal Constitutions clear language, putting the responsibility in the legislatures hands. Cheri Hardmon, senior press secretary for Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, declined to comment on the matter due to it being pending litigation. Filed in the United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan, the suit argues Article 12, Section 2 of the Michigan constitution is in direct violation of the federal clause when specifically pertaining to election law changes. When state constitutional amendments, which affect the times, places, and manner of federal elections, are enacted by petition-and-state-ballot-proposals, as occurred in 2018 and 2022, the constitutional amendments and process of enactment violate the legislators federal rights under the Elections Clause, the suit reads. Such petitioning or state ballot processes, when the legislators are excluded from those processes, undermines the state legislature as the entity assigned particular authority by the Federal Constitution to regulate the time, place, and manner of federal elections. Proposal 2 of 2022 created a litany of new voting-related laws including nine days of early voting, requiring military or overseas ballots be counted if postmarked by Election Day and mandating state-funded absentee ballot drop boxes, as well as postage for absentee applications and ballots, among other things. Proposal 3 of 2018 enshrined the right to in-person, same day voter registration with proof of residency, automatic voter registration and no-reason absentee voting into the state Constitution, among other things. It passed with 67% of the vote at the ballot box in November 2018. As a result, the group is seeking declaratory judgement regarding the rights we, as legislators, have, Lindsey said, with the case also asking the court to prevent the unconstitutional processes used in 2018 and 2022 from being used again in the future and for the court to effectively strike down the unconstitutionally adopted provisions. Weve elected these legislators to have the power under the elections clause, to participate in lawmaking to regulate time, place and manner of federal elections. Thats perfect. Thats what Michigan wants, said Erick Kaardal, an attorney with the law firm of Mohrman, Kaardal & Erickson who was on the Zoom call Thursday. But unfortunately, Article 12, Section 2 was misused in order to regulate time, place, and manner of federal elections ... So, its a federal civil rights action, its a beautiful thing, and its going to sort of clear up this problem particularly in the future should people do these amendment-by-citizen-petition when theyre regulating time placement of elections. In addition to Carra and Lindsey, also signed on to the lawsuit is state Sen. Jim Runestad, R-White Lake, along with Republican state Reps. James DeSana of Carleton, Joseph Fox of Fremont, Matt Maddock of Milford, Angela Rigas of Caledonia Township, Rachelle Smit of Shelbyville, Josh Schriver of Oxford, Neil Friske of Charlevoix and Brad Paquette of Niles. Michigan Fair Elections and the Great Lakes Justice Center additionally are sponsoring the lawsuit. We have a constitutional republic. We want to protect things like photo ID. We dont want the people of Michigan to be tricked with deceptive tactics and millions of dollars use from out of state, Carra added. Thats why we have our legislators, who should be involved as Article One, Section Four of the U.S. Constitution says, to determine the time, place and manner of conducting elections. We need to make sure that we get our elections correct (and) that theyre safe, secure and honest. Michigan law allows a person without an ID to vote, though only if they are registered in the states Qualified Voter File and sign an affidavit attesting to their identity. The signature upon the sworn statement is only checked against that persons signature on the voter file if a poll challenger believes there to be some sort of error. That check is automatically done if the person without ID is voting absentee. This practice was codified into the state Constitution last November when Proposal 2 of 2022 passed with 60% of the vote. Steven Liedel, a member at the Dykema law firm specializing in government affairs, regulatory and political law, denounced the suit as legal hogwash in a thread on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. He argued what the group was doing could constitute a willful misreading of the Constitution, pointing to a past case Kaardal had signed onto in 2020 where a federal court chastised the suit for being a fundamental and obvious misreading of the document. Plus, (the U.S. Supreme Court) already has explicitly recognized that state voters can empower independent commissions and exclude legislatures from redistricting, he wrote. This suit is legal hogwash. Same election-denying attorney claimed in 2020 that a Michigan state law on certification of presidential electors was unconstitutional and to block the certification of presidential results in MI. He was rejected by a federal court. 1/ https://t.co/MiFzwdIEZA Steven C. Liedel (@SCLiedel) September 28, 2023 Jamie Lyons-Eddy, executive director of Voters Not Politicians, which worked to pass Proposal 2 of 2022, also slammed the lawsuit in a statement Thursday, calling it a baseless lawsuit ... absurd from top to bottom. Millions of Michiganders made their voices heard at the polls last year, and through a fair electoral process affirmed a proposal that makes our elections more secure, modern, and accessible, Lyons-Eddy said. Now, extremist groups are trying to roll back that progress, attack our fundamental rights, and push unfounded legal theories in an attempt to suppress voters across our state. We knew the work to protect and expand Michiganders voting rights wasnt over in 2022 when Prop 2 passed, and it still isnt over today. No matter how bizarre the attacks and frankly this lawsuit is bizarre all of us at Voters Not Politicians are prepared to continue the fight and win for voters. The United Auto Workers strike was thrust into the 2024 presidential spotlight this week with back-to-back visits from President Joe Biden and former president Donald Trump. Both politicians came to Southeast Michigan looking to persuade autoworkers, and union leadership, of their support for the industry. Although Biden came in his official capacity as president, it was obvious the UAWs endorsement was on the table. Heres some key takeaway from a newsworthy week in Michigan. Historic moment for labor movement President Joe Biden joins striking United Auto Workers on the picket line, Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023, in Van Buren Township, Mich. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) APAP On Tuesday, Biden became the first sitting president to visit a picket line. Last week, UAW president Shawn Fain spoke directly to the president while announcing additional strike targets on Facebook Live. Fain invited the president to join the strike in an act of solidarity. Biden accepted the invite the same day. When he arrived in Michigan, the White House press pool asked what would it take to get the UAW to endorse him, Biden replied: Im not worried about that. Biden joined picketers at General Motors Willow Run Redistribution Center in Belleville with a bullhorn in hand telling workers its their turn to share in the record profits of the Detroit automakers. You guys, the UAW, you saved the auto industry back in 2008 and before. You made a lot of sacrifices, gave up a lot when the companies were in trouble. Now theyre doing incredibly well and guess what? You should be doing incredibly well, too, he said. Bidens visit was brief and small. Altogether he was with picketers for about 30 minutes. While shaking hands with UAW members, Biden was asked by press about the unions demand for a 40% wage increase over the course of the contract. Yes. I think they should be able to bargain for that, he said. Trump rallies auto workers, criticizes electric vehicles Donald Trump addresses supporters at Drake Enterprises, Inc. in Clinton Township on Wednesday, Sept. 27 2023. Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com On Wednesday night, Trump spoke to a crowd of several hundred supporters at an auto supplier in Clinton Township. The event was a mix of a campaign stop and a UAW rally. Over the course of more than an hour Trump made his case for why auto workers should vote for him to secure jobs. Trump came to Michigan in lieu of participating in the second Republican presidential primary debate, happening at the same time as his event at the Michigan supplier, Drake Enterprises. The striking workers, I support you and your goal of fair wages and greater stability. I truly hope to get a fair deal for yourselves and your families, Trump said. But if your union leaders do not demand that crooked Joe repeal his electric vehicle mandate immediately then it doesnt matter what hourly rate you get, it just doesnt make a damn bit of difference because in two to three years you will not have one job. Drake Enterprises supplies parts to the Big Three but is not a union shop. Drake Enterprises makes automotive and heavy-duty truck components, including gear shift levers for semi-trucks. Company president Nathan Stemple told Fox News the transition to EV would put them out of business. If all the trucks and vehicle went electric we would be scratching for something to do, he said. Workers caught in the middle Donald Trump addresses supporters at Drake Enterprises, Inc. in Clinton Township on Wednesday, Sept. 27 2023. Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com Biden and Trump turned up the national spotlight on the strike, but in some ways its a distraction from the negotiation itself, workers said. Ahead of the political visits UAW members told MLive they werent interested in the politics. Stellantis engineer John Micallef, 52, of Lapeer said its the workers who inevitably have their own best interests at heart. The government should stay out of things they dont know about, Micallef said. You have to live this kind of stuff to understand whats going on there. There doesnt seem to be a clear consensus on where union membership will place its ballots next November. On one hand, UAW president sent a clear signal that the union wasnt interested in Trumps involvement. I dont think he cares about working-class people. I think he cares about the billionaire class, he cares about the corporate interests. I think hes just trying to pander to people and say what they want to hear, and its a shame, Fain said this week. On the other, blue collar workers, although Biden took the lead for union votes in 2020, have made up Trumps base in previous elections. Nelson Westrick, who works at Fords Sterling Axle Plant in Sterling Heights, pointed to Trumps policies on tariffs, taxes and the North American Free Trade Agreement. The more the United States supports EVs, the more it supports China, he said. Thats what we need is (internal combustion engine) vehicles going down the road. The union membership has ebbed and flowed politically in the shop, he said. The people I know, were pretty much even between the support of Trump and Biden, he said. When I first hired in it was 90/10 Democrat to Republican. Now its 50/50. Investigation Discoverys Crime Scene Confidential takes a close look at the case of a Southwest Michigan woman accused of burning her husband in a house fire and running him over with a van. The episode Feud on Fire premieres at 9 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 27. You can stream the episode on Philo, Fubo, Sling, and DIRECTV Stream. Watch previous seasons on discovery+ (start free trial). Linda Stermer, now 58, served eight years in prison from 2010 to 2018 for the murder of her late husband, Todd Stermer. She was let out on appeal in December 2018 and is currently awaiting a retrial in the case. Related: Michigan woman convicted of killing husband in house fire one step closer to new trial Over the course of the episode, the shows host, forensic expert and former crime scene investigator Alina Burroughs will revisit the evidence in Stermers case. Viewers will also see extensive interviews with Stermer, her sons and legal experts and law enforcement professionals who worked the case. Stermers husband, who was 42 at the time of his death, died of severe burns caused by a house fire, which his wife of 14 years was later convicted of setting. He also suffered blunt-force trauma when Linda Stermer struck him with a vehicle after he got outside of their burning home in Lawrence, which is 30 miles west of Kalamazoo. Related: 2007 Southwest Michigan murder case to be featured on true crime TV show As the case prepares to head back to trial, the two main questions will be who set the fire and did Linda Stermer intentionally run her husband over. Linda Stermer has maintained she got in the van to drive to get help and had lost sight of her badly-burned husband before the vehicle struck him. Burroughs sits down with Linda Stermer in the Wednesday night episode. After serving eight years of a life sentence, Linda Stermer was freed from prison in December 2018 after a federal judge ruled her attorney had provided ineffective counsel by not using an arson expert. Also appearing on Crime Scene Confidential will be Stermers sons Cory and Trenton Stermer, both of whom believe their mother is guilty. Stermers daughters, meanwhile, maintain their mothers innocence. Ten young cyber security specialists participated in regular Turk Telekom training sessions with the support of Azercell Azercell representatives met with the students who attended a cyber security camp in Turkiye at the company's initiative and support. The students were acknowledged for their outstanding performance in the training program hosted by Turk Telekom, receiving special certificates and gifts. The event also provided a platform for enriching discussions, fostering the exchange of valuable perspectives and ideas. In the intensive ten-day training held under the slogan Become one of the cyber heroes of the future, the students gained theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the dynamic field of cyber security. Furthermore, they were privileged to engage with representatives of prominent Turk companies, adding a valuable networking dimension to their experience. These talented students firmly believe that the knowledge and insights gained in Turkiye will significantly shape their future endeavors and careers. It is worth mentioning that "Azercell Telecom" LLC launched a large-scale project earlier this year, aiming to enhance the cyber security landscape in Azerbaijan by introducing the latest trends and best practices in the field. The company is committed to modernizing existing cybersecurity solutions while pioneering innovative ones. One of the directions of this project is to support the professional growth of cybersecurity specialists within Azerbaijan. Azercell remains dedicated to organizing diverse training programs and internship opportunities for young professionals as part of this visionary project. The leading mobile operator congratulates the students who excelled in the training held in Turkiye and wishes them success in their future careers! A Senior Research Fellow with the Department of Peace Studies, School for Development Studies of the University of Cape Coast, Dr. Patrick Osei-Kufuor has argued that Alan Kyeremanten's decision to resign from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to contest the 2024 general elections as an Independent Candidate won't help his political career. According to him, the issues raised by Alan Kyeremanteng leading to his resignation from the NPP shows someone who is very bitter. In a telephone conversation on GBC Radio Central Morning Show, Tuesday September 27, 2023, the Senior Research Fellow underscored the fact that being bitter for not given a fair playing field in internal elections should not be the sinequanon to resign from the party. "The claims Alan made against the party have been debunked by the party. So Alan ought to have backed his claim with evidence about those he thinks have hijacked the party otherwise it remains a claim and anyone at all can make a claim against the party," he posited. "When you're in a party and there are issues, you stay back and solve the problems. In our history, all those who left a larger political party to form their own parties haven't survived. I can mention Goosie Tandoh, Dr. Wreko Brobbey, Nana Kunadu Agyeman Rawlings etc. The party revolves around them, and once they are out the party is dead," he stated. Dr. Osei-Kufuor further indicated that, during the 2007 NPP flagbearership race, 17 people contested but Alan left the party in 2008 for not winning. "In 2023, 10 people have contested and he has left again after placing third. When it happens that anytime you're not given the opportunity to lead the party, you leave, such people should be looked at well", he avered. According to him, Alan's campaign message did not sit well with the party youth which placed him third in the Super Delegates Conference of the NPP. "Ken placed second because he was preaching a message of hope and jobs. A lot of the party executives are youthful and they need jobs. So, his messages resonated with them," Dr. Osei-Kufuor stated. "The political dynamics in every situation is about momentum. When the momentum leaves, it leaves and there is nothing anyone can do about it." "Ghana isn't like Kenya where one person can decide to form his party and based on ethnicity make a huge impact in elections. Even though ethnicity plays a role in our politics, the party helps shape up the way voters vote and going independent wouldn't make any difference", he emphasised. Dr Steve Manteaw, a co-chair of the Ghana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GHEITI), is calling for the review of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 Act 921, to make the finance minister more accountable to the citizenry. He noted that the current state of the Act does not provide any sanctions against the Finance Minister, even when he breaches it, saying this breeds impunity. What I am saying is not about the current Finance Minister, but the various Finance Ministers we have had over the years. The Act, as it stands, is not biting and so unable to deter people from committing infractions repeatedly over the years, he said. 2020 GHEITI reports Dr. Manteaw was speaking in Sunyani last Tuesday during a stakeholders dissemination workshop on Ghana Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (GHEITI) 2020 reports on the mining, oil and gas sectors. It was to create the required public awareness, generate interest and debate on the issues raised in the reports as well as pave the way for stakeholder engagements on the reports as required by Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (EITI) standards. The programme, which brought together various stakeholder groups from various municipalities and districts in Bono, Ahafo and other regions, was jointly organised by the Ministry of Finance and GHEITI in collaboration with the Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). Accountability Dr. Manteaw said Ghana is doing well in terms of being transparent in its governance architecture as people are aware of most of the happenings around them but one key item missing out is accountability and hoped that the review of the Act will strengthen the process of making government more accountable to the people. He said GHEITI is exploring other avenues to come out with the next report next year since successive governments usually fail to fund such an activity during an election year and hoped this trend would change in future. Dr. Manteaw said Ghana needs to undertake a comprehensive cost benefit analysis of the country's extractive industry to ascertain the real impact of the sector on the citizenry and to determine the next steps in exploiting the natural resources. A World Bank report in the lead up to the millennium (1998, 1999, 2000) revealed that the cost of human activities in Ghana to the environment alone was between four and six percent of the country's GDP. If, as a country, our annual GDP growth rate is 4% and the cost of your growth to the environment is also 4%, it means we are at a standstill without making any progress, he also said. EITI may not be the solution to all problems in the extractive sector but at least it presents opportunity for addressing several of the transparency, revenue management and utilization challenges, he said. For her part, the Bono Regional minister, Justina Owusu Banahene, said proceeds from the exports of minerals increased from $ 6.678b in 2019 to $6.998b in 2020 and constituted 8% of total government revenues and grants in 2020. These revenues, she explained, have been utilized to fund vital social services, infrastructural projects and community development initiatives that have a direct impact on the lives of people. Campaign coordinators, and delegates of Mr Alan Kyerematen, have openly declared their non-negotiable support for Mr Kennedy Agyapong, who is regarded as a smart and time-tested politician capable of breaking the 8-year cycle of governance in Ghana. Mr Kyerematen, a former Flagbearer hopeful of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) resigned from the party alleging maltreatment, among others. The Supporters said it is only Mr Agyapong, who can lead and win the general election for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in 2024. Mr Francis Songeh, campaign coordinator for Alan in the constituency took turns to assure Mr Agyapong that they would work hard to win their respective constituencies for him to become flagbearer of the party. Building Ghana, we want together is the theme for Mr Agyapongs 2024 campaign, he stated. Speaking at a press conference held in Dambai, he cited some track records in Alan which included, One District, One Factory policy under which about 300 factories were being built at various levels of completion. Mr Solomon Bodzah, polling station executive member of Guan District told GNA that, Mr Agyapong is known for his tough-talking approach to many issues over decades and carved a niche for being one of the most generous politicians in the country. He said Mr Agyapong has over the years made contributions to various sectors of the country including security, religion, education, and healthcare and retained a long-standing interest in caring for the less privileged. Mr Hayford Obeng, National Representative for Mr Agyapong in Oti Region, expressed gratitude for the reassurance and told fellow supporters that their doors were open and welcomed their decision. Mr Kyerematen, a former Trade and Industry Minister, in a press conference held at in Accra on Monday, September 25, announced his resignation from the New Patriotic Party after he withdrew from the partys presidential primaries on September 5. He also announced his intentions to contest the 2024 Presidential election as an independent candidate to break the NPP and NDC monopoly that persisted for years. GNA The New Edubiase Constituency executive of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) says it will be unnecessary for the national leadership of the party to negotiate for the return of Mr Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen to the party. Mr Felix Baah Nuako, the Constituency Secretary told the Ghana News Agency, that, the departure of Mr Kyerematen was a good omen for the party. Reacting to the news of Mr Kyerematen's resignation from the party, he said his absence would not have any negative effect on the party going to the 2024 elections. Mr Kyerematen announced his resignation from the NPP to lead a new movement for change, ahead of the 2024 elections. The decision had generated a lot of debate among the Ghanaian populace with divergent opinions on the possible effects of the resignation on the NPP in the 2024 elections. Mr Nuako said Mr Kyerematen's influence in the party had waned over the years and there was no need to beg him to return to the party. However, some party sympathizers in the New Edubiase Constituency view the resignation of Mr Kyerematen as suicidal for the party in the 2024 elections. According to them, breaking the eight without Mr Keyermaten could be a herculean task and therefore, suggested to the leadership of the party to handle the matter carefully to avoid further divisions in the party. Others also suggested that the pairing of Mr Kyerematen and Mr Kennedy Agyepong for the new independent movement could cause a massive scare in the country's 2024 elections. GNA On September 15, Covenant Presby School located at Dzorwulu in Accra held a remarkable event. The institution, widely recognized for its commitment to providing quality education held its sixteenth annual graduation and awards ceremony. The event was a profound landmark in the academic journey of the graduating class which comprises 64 students; 33 passed out from kindergarten 2 to basic one while 31 graduated from JHS to the SHS. They were acknowledged for their hard work, perseverance, and resilience in the academic and co-curricular spheres. Amidst the joy and laughter of proud parents, guardians, colleagues, teachers and innumerable well-wishers, the graduating class, decorated in their graduation gowns, marched into the school's expansive auditorium. In support of the event's theme, "Promoting Excellence Through Determination and Hard Work," Mr. Felix Akuffo-Badoo, the immediate past head of the Test Administration Division of the West Africa Examination Council, addressed the gathering. Speaking as the guest speaker, his speech emphasized academic accomplishment, the importance of co-curricular activities, but most importantly, excellence, humility, and hard workthe cornerstones of values-oriented education imparted at Covenant Presby School. Speaking about the previous Presbyterian schools' accomplishments, Mr. Akuffo-Badoo explained that one of their basic ideals was excellence, which was attained by perseverance and hard work. While congratulating the graduates for succeeding in their academic endeavors, he challenged each of them to be committed to achieving excellence and honor through hard work. He believed that this value should serve as a way to guide the graduates in their educational path as well as other endeavors to become a shining example in their various schools. For those of you passing out today, you have the duty of projecting the image of Covenant Presby School. When you move on from here, I challenge you to work hard and represent your schools at the National Maths and Science Quiz competition and also win the WAEC Excellence Awards at the National and International Levels, amongst others, through hard work, he stated. In her address, the headmistress of the school, Mrs. Evelyn Amoamah Antwi underlined the high standards of education that Covenant Presby School-Dzorwulu offers. She delivered a speech that was rich in educational, moral, and life-guiding principles, emphasizing the need for perseverance, hard work and adherence to ethical standards. These, she believes, are the keys to success in the nascent professional lives of the graduates. In light of the event's theme, she emphasized the importance of discipline, hard work, integrity, and humility in her speech and urged the school children to take pride in these Presbyterian values, saying, "We need to constantly remind ourselves of these values because they play a crucial role in our quest to achieve academic excellence." In concluding her inspirational address, Evelyn Antwi stated, To my esteemed graduates of JHS Class of 2023 I believe you all have dreams I mean big dreams to nurture but remember you have to work towards them with all seriousness because the journey from here to senior high schools and to the university is not a smooth one but Im confident that the foundation we have laid for you in Covenant Presby school has equipped you well enough to sail through your education and beyond. Stakeholders consultation workshop on the creation of a Dash Board to validate and update the Early Childhood Care and Development Policy of the country has been held in Sunyani in the Bono Regional Capital. The updated policy would be submitted to the Parliament of Ghana for approval. The essence of the workshop was to support effective monitoring of the policy implementation and to consult the stakeholders on the layout of the Dash board and indicators for the policy implementation as captured in the Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning framework. This was made known by Madam Pearl Peters, the Principal Programme Officer and Head of Early Childhood Care and Development Unit of the Department of Children under the Ministry of Gender. She noted that the first policy was formulated in 2004 to guide the implementation of Early Childhood programme to promote a holistic development of children with the involvement of all major stakeholders. By 2020 she noted, there was a review and it was evaluated in 2020 and the timelines for the targets had elapsed. The Principal Programme Officer added that there was also new development. "The major addition was the adoption of Nurturing Care Framework that spelt out evidence based approach for implementing the Early Childhood Programme." She observed that in 2020, the policy was evaluated to ascertain its relevance, effectiveness, efficiency and sustainability. The evaluation, she said established that the policy was relevant and effective in producing results and effecting positive outcomes. Madam Pearl noted however that, there were some risks in sustaining the outcomes. Some of them were inadequate resources, inequitable service delivery, and weak coordination of the multi-sectorial. As a result, there were recommendations for a review of the policy to address these findings to align with international and national priorities for effective implementation of Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD). In addition, there was a recommendation for the development of Monitoring and Evaluation Framework plan to guide the implementation of the policy. The Regional Director for the Department of Children in charge of Bono Region call for the provision of basic facilities for children in the basic schools such as furniture, learning and recreational facilities, among others. The participants were drawn from social welfare department, various District Assemblies, security agencies, CSOs, GES, selected MDAs and the media. 28.09.2023 LISTEN Sam George, a Member of Parliament (MP) of Ningo-Prampram has opined on the resignation of failed flagbearer candidate of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) Alan Kyerematen. According to Mr. George, despite Alan Kyerematen's withdrawal from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) he is not a viable alternative. Sam George remarked that Alan and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia were to blame for the current economic difficulties. He urges Ghanaians to vote against Alan and Bawumia since they are both not different. The Ningo-Prampram MP is certain that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) if it wins back power in the general elections in 2024, would revive the economy. Sam George asserts that flagbearer John Dramani Mahama is the best alternative for Ghana. Whether an elephant or a tsetsefly, it's not my business, the value is the same. Alan Kyerematen is as guilty as Bawumia is of the colossal failure of the economy. Alan Kyerematen is as guilty as Bawumia is, Sam George stated. Alan Kyerematen announced his decision to resign from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) at a press conference held at Movenpick Hotel on September 25. He noted that the time is ripped for him to exit the party as his continued stay in the party may cause further chaos since the party leadership has turned a deaf ear to his grievances. 27.09.2023 LISTEN John Dramani Mahama, the former President of Ghana, flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and a prominent political figure, has outlined a clear vision for the future of Ghana. With a focus on economic development, social inclusion, and sustainable growth, Mahamas vision aims to transform Ghana into a prosperous and inclusive nation. This article delves into the key elements of Mahamas vision and the potential impact it could have on the country. Economic Empowerment: Mahamas vision places a strong emphasis on economic empowerment, with the goal of creating a thriving economy that benefits all Ghanaians. He believes in harnessing Ghanas vast natural resources, promoting industrialization, and stimulating private sector growth. By attracting foreign investment, supporting local businesses, and implementing policies that encourage job creation, Mahama envisions a Ghana where citizens have access to meaningful employment and improved livelihoods. Infrastructure Development: Recognizing the importance of modern infrastructure for economic growth, Mahamas vision includes a comprehensive plan for infrastructure development. This encompasses the construction and improvement of hospitals, markets, art centers, film theaters, roads, bridges, railways, ports, airports and many others. By enhancing connectivity within Ghana and improving access to markets, education, and healthcare, Mahama aims to foster regional integration and drive economic progress across the country. Quality Education and Skills Development: Mahama believes that education is the foundation for societal progress. His vision focuses on providing quality education for all Ghanaians, from early childhood to tertiary level. He advocates for increased investment in educational infrastructure, teacher training, and curriculum development. Additionally, Mahama aims to prioritize skills development and vocational training to equip the youth with the necessary tools to succeed in a rapidly evolving job market. Social Inclusion and Healthcare: In line with his commitment to social justice, Mahamas vision emphasizes social inclusion and equitable access to healthcare. He aims to bridge the gap between urban and rural areas by improving healthcare infrastructure and expanding healthcare services to underserved communities. Mahama also advocates for the implementation of social protection programs to alleviate poverty and reduce inequalities, ensuring that no Ghanaian is left behind. Renewable Energy and Environmental Sustainability: Mahama recognizes the importance of sustainable development and environmental stewardship. His vision includes a strong focus on renewable energy, aiming to increase Ghanas energy generation capacity through the use of solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting clean energy initiatives, Mahama seeks to mitigate climate change and create a greener future for Ghana. In summary, John Dramani Mahamas vision for Ghana encompasses a comprehensive and ambitious roadmap for the countrys progress. By prioritizing economic empowerment, infrastructure development, quality education, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability, Mahama aims to transform Ghana into a prosperous and inclusive nation. While the realization of this vision requires collective effort and effective governance, Mahamas vision serves as a guiding framework for a brighter future for Ghana and its citizens. Michael Agbesi Kelly Geneva/San Jose The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is appealing for governments in Central America and Mexico to collaborate to address the immediate humanitarian needs of people on the move as unprecedented numbers of vulnerable migrants transit through the region, while also working on long-term solutions to tackle the drivers of migration. "The situation underscores the urgent need for the immediate collective involvement of governments from origin, transit and destination countries to provide humanitarian assistance, especially to vulnerable groups like women and children," said Michele Klein Solomon, IOM Regional Director for Central America, North America and the Caribbean. Panamas National Migration Service has reported a record number of migrants crossing the perilous Darien jungle from Colombia this year. As of 23 September, over 390,000 individuals have braved the treacherous route; 82,000 migrants crossed in August alone, the highest monthly figure ever recorded. Most of the migrants come from Venezuela, Ecuador and Haiti. Beyond the sheer increase in the numbers of people making the trip, the most significant trend has been the shift by Cuban migrants and those coming from African nations who are increasingly choosing air routes to reach Central America, sidestepping the Darien to continue their northbound trip. Only 4,100 migrants from Africa crossed the Darien between January and July 2023, a 65 per cent decrease from the same period in 2022; Honduras by contrast saw a staggering 553 per cent increase in arrivals from African nations to 19,412 people through its southern border. Similarly, only 524 Cubans were reported in the Darien during this period, in contrast to the 17,157 recorded arriving by land in Honduras. People transiting Central America and Mexico face numerous challenges. The trek through the Darien jungle leaves many injured, sometimes abandoned on muddy slopes, swept away by sudden river floodings, and vulnerable to robbery, violence and sexual abuse. In countries along the route, financially depleted families find themselves hungry, sleeping in the streets and forced to beg. Many experience health issues like diarrhea and dehydration. Throughout Colombia, Central America and Mexico, IOM monitors movements and supplies life-saving information and assistance. IOM provides hygiene items, food, protection services and health care. The Organization also assists with voluntary return operations, infrastructure and shelter support, and carries out communication campaigns to counter false information and alert migrants about the dangers associated with irregular migration. Despite the efforts of transit nations, UN agencies and humanitarian organizations, the capacity to offer life-saving aid is stretched thin. Migration drivers are complex, ranging from economic and social factors to environmental and political challenges. Many of these triggers have been intensified by the socioeconomic repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, recent extreme weather events, and political unrest in countries of origin. The anticipated El Nino climate phenomenon threatens to further exacerbate conditions, potentially spurring more people to make the decision to move. "The challenges of migration are too vast for any nation in the Americas to tackle alone," said Marcelo Pisani, IOMs Regional Director for South America. "As mandated on the Global Compact on Migration, IOM advocates for a comprehensive, collaborative regional strategy and reaffirms its unwavering support for initiatives that uphold international humanitarian duties, sustainable development objectives, and the fundamental human rights of those on the move." 28.09.2023 LISTEN In reaction to Alan Kyerematen's resignation from the NPP, Stephen Ntim, the National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has given an account of the many years he fought to become national chairman of the party. According to him, he had invested twenty years of his life in realising his political ambition. It took me 21 years to realize my dream of becoming the National Chairman of the NPP, and I never once considered resigning from the party. I embarked on this journey when I was 44 years old, and now, at the age 65, I am proud to serve as the Chairman of the NPP, Stephen Ntim stated. Former Trade and Industry Minister Alan John Kyerematen resigned from the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) citing unfair treatment. At a much-publicized press conference on Monday, September 25, he also announced his intentions to contest the 2024 elections as an independent presidential candidate. "Fellow Countrymen and Women, under the circumstances and given the context provided, I wish to use this platform to announce that I am honourably resigning with immediate effect from the New Patriotic Party to contest for the high office of the President of the Republic of Ghana in the 2024 General Elections, as an Independent Presidential Candidate," he stated. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. The Heydar Aliyev Center will host the opening of another unique exhibition - "Uzun Hasan - ruler of Aghgoyunlu State" on November 1, which will become an excursion into the history of Azerbaijan, Trend reports. This is the first exhibition dedicated to the ruler of Aghgoyunlu State Uzun Hasan. Through the exhibits of the exhibition, it will be possible to learn about the history of the Aghgoyunlu State, founded by the outstanding statesman and commander Uzun Hasan, and about its role in the history of Azerbaijani statehood. Visitors will have the opportunity to get acquainted with many rare exhibits, including those stored in the Istanbul Military Museum (Harbiye Military Museum and Cultural Site Command), which have not yet been exported outside Turkiye. These exhibits will be presented in Azerbaijan for the first time. This year marks the 600th anniversary of the birth of the founder of the Aghgoyunlu State, Uzun Hasan (14231478). The sections of the exhibition "Uzun Hasan and the Aghgoyunlu State", "Internal and Foreign Policy of the Aghgoyunlu State", "Culture and Art in the Aghgoyunlu State", "Sara Khatun, the first female diplomat in the history of Azerbaijan", "Despina Khatun," and others will present information about Sultan Uzun Hasan, his mother, Sara Khatun, who, as a result of diplomatic negotiations, managed to prevent many wars. They will also be presented with information about Uzun Hasan's wife, Despina Khatun, whose beauty charmed everyone. At the "Internal and Foreign Policy of the Aghgoyunlu State" exhibition, visitors will get acquainted with the policy pursued by Sultan Uzun Hasan and how he managed to turn the Aghgoyunlu State from a small kingdom into a large empire. In addition, the exhibition will also feature the armor of Uzun Hasan, his son and successor, Yagub Beg, and the weapons of Azerbaijani soldiers of the XV century. It will also be possible to see replicas of Uzun Hasan's sword and dagger, stored in a private collection and made according to the technologies of the XV century, items of military equipment of archers of that time. Moreover, the "Culture and Art in the Aghgoyunlu State" exhibition is given a special place. Here visitors will be presented with photo materials reflecting the development of culture, including architecture and art in Aghgoyunlu State and copies of miniatures presented by the Topkapi Palace Museum. The exhibition will feature exhibits from the Aghgoyunlu period from the collections of the National Museum of History of Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijan State Museum of Art, the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum, the Ganja State History and Ethnography Museum, and the National Library of Azerbaijan. Among the exhibits, visitors can see the official clothes of the ruler of Aghgoyunlu State, created on the basis of Tabriz miniatures from the 1470s80s. Carpets with the image of a rare Tabriz miniature of the 15th century were made especially for the exhibition. The exhibition will feature coins belonging to the Aghgoyunlu State, ceramic samples found during archaeological excavations, and copper objects. Some information related to the Aghgoyunlu State will also be presented using multimedia and interactive tools. In addition, with the help of an interactive map, visitors will get acquainted with the borders of Aghgoyunlu State, trade routes that passed through its territory, cities, and magnificent structures. A documentary film dedicated to Uzun Hasan will be shown in the cinema hall. The souvenir section of the exhibition will be one of the places that will also attract the interest of visitors. Souvenirs dedicated to Aghgoyunlu State, Uzun Hasan, and other interesting samples will be presented here. The Heydar Aliyev Center prepared the "Uzun Hasan, ruler of Aghgoyunlu State" book in Azerbaijani and English. The exhibition will last until January 17, 2024. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh 28.09.2023 LISTEN Ranking Member on the Health Committee of Parliament, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has called out the management of Korle Teaching Hospital over the decision to increase the cost of dialysis for patients with kidney problems. In the last few days, members of the public have been outraged about the increment, arguing that the latest increase will send many to their early graves in the midst of hardships in the country. Cost of dialysis has been increased from GHS380 to GHS765.42. Thank you, a notice signed by the head of unit at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital said. Speaking to Citi FM on Eyewitness News on Wednesday, September 27, Juaboso Member of Parliament Kwabena Mintah Akandoh indicated that what Korle Bu Teaching Hospital is seeking to do is unacceptable. He said the increment in the cost of dialysis is illegal and management of the hospital must stop immediately. Whatever fees or charges the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital is seeking to collect with respect to dialysis is illegal. They ought to have brought it before parliament because Korle Bu is a public health facility and they cannot set their own fees and charges. Any fees that have been proposed or that are being charged at Korle Bu are strictly illegal and I think that they must stop with immediate effect, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh stressed. He warned that if by next week Monday, the increment is not rescinded, Health Minister Kwaku Agyemang Manu will be in hot water. According to him, charging GHS765.42 for a dialydid session at Korle Bu will only push many Ghanaians into their early graves. Empathy courses, confiscation of cell phones in serious cases, and exclusion of students who harass other students on social network are among some of the measures that have been included in the French government's plan to tackle bullying at school. Prime Minister Elizabet has promised a "general mobilization" and a "relentless fight" against what she described as this "massive phenomenon". 'General mobilisation' "The mobilisation must be general: everyone has a role to play. With my entire government, we are at your side, and we will wage a relentless fight against harassment", she said, at the press conference to present the plan "against harassment at school and in all areas of a child's life". "Our plan is 100% prevention, 100% detection, 100% solutions", she added. Prior to the press conference, the Prime Minister had heard several testimonies from students who had been harassed or involved in anti-harassment associations. "These are obviously not simple stories to tell. Talking about it is very important, and getting involved for others is also a very good way of rebuilding yourself," she added. The plan follows the suicide of a 13-year-old in May in the Pas-de-Calais region, which was reported in early September. Several measures have already been put in place, including the possibility of transferring students suspected of bullying to a different school, and the possibility of sanctioning a bully who is targeting children who attends another school. Education Minister Gabriel Attal has also announced the introduction of "empathy courses" as part of the school curriculum, "along the lines of those that exist in other countries, notably Denmark", which will be generalized in schools from the start of the 2024 academic year. Teenager arrested Meanwhile, the French government last week defended the arrest of a teenage boy in the middle of class over claims of bullying a transgender classmate, a rare move that angered many pupils and parents despite widespread support for a crackdown on harassment. The 14-year-old boy was put in handcuffs and marched out of his classroom in the Paris suburb of Alfortville Monday. Government spokesperson Olivier Veran said at the time that the arrest had been made "in compliance" with policies against abusive behaviour and aimed to send "a very strong message" to bullying students. "This is how we end this plague of harassment, it's also how we are going to protect our children," he said. The alleged victim, who attends a different school, was targeted with comments such as "We're going to cut your throat" and "I detest your type... go die, go kill yourself". The controversy came days after it emerged that education officials had sent a threatening letter to the parents of a boy who had complained of being bullied by classmates for months, saying their public statements complaining about the bullying were "unacceptable" and urged them to adopt a "constructive" attitude. Orthodox Ethiopians on Wednesday marked the beginning of Meskel, one of the holiest celebrations in the Christian tradition followed in this devout nation riven by ethnic and political violence. Among Orthodox believers in Ethiopia and its neighbour Eritrea, Meskel commemorates the discovery by Saint Helena in Palestine in the fourth century of the "true cross" upon which Jesus Christ was crucified. According to legend, Helena, the mother of Roman Emperor Constantine I, was led to the cross -- a fragment of which was believed to have been brought back to Ethiopia -- by the smoke from a ceremonial bonfire. On the eve of Meskel, worshippers construct large pyres in streets and church courtyards for a ceremony known as "demera" that signals the start of the festivities. At sunset, after hours of dancing and singing, these bonfires -- topped with a cross and covered in indigenous flowers -- are set ablaze across the country. The largest, several metres high, is lit in Meskel Square, a vast esplanade in the centre of Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa, in the presence of tens of thousands of congregants and Orthodox priests and bishops in rich fabrics. "The power of Christianity is bringing back our original unity. It helps us to forget those differences that have shaped us for so many years, and brought us to these conflicts, wars, hate and... atrocities," said one Orthodox priest in attendance, who did not give his name. 'How can we celebrate?' A mosaic of 80 different peoples, Ethiopia is one of the oldest Christian countries in the world. Orthodox deacons look on during the celebrations. By Amanuel Sileshi (AFP) The Aksumite Empire, ancestor of present-day Ethiopia, made Christianity a state religion from the 4th century, at the same time as Rome. Short of an official census, it is estimated that roughly two-thirds of Ethiopia's 120 million people are Christian and another third are Muslim, with a small animist minority. Most Christians are Orthodox, although the share of Protestants has grown significantly recently. In Tigray, the cradle of the Axumite kingdom, this Meskel was the first in peacetime since 2020 when the federal government went to war with rebellious leaders in the northern region. A peace deal in November last year drew a line under the two-year conflict. "I am celebrating Meskel in a better way than in previous years. At least this time there are no gunshots and we are in a more peaceful atmosphere," said Kalayu Kiros from Mekele, the capital of Tigray. But, he said, there were "so many traumas of war that I cannot fully celebrate this festival". An Orthodox choir sings at celebrations commemorating the discovery of the True Cross in the fourth century by the Roman Empress Helena. By Amanuel Sileshi (AFP) Meaza Teklemariam, also from Mekele, said Meskel was "not like it was before the war" and that cost of living pressures had made it harder to celebrate. Despite the conflict ending in Tigray, armed violence rages elsewhere in Africa's second-most populous country, which is divided into states along ethno-linguistic lines. In Amhara, where militias have been clashing with Ethiopia's army since April, a state of emergency has been declared in the region where accusations of summary executions and arbitrary arrests have been made. "How can we celebrate Meskel when the fear and the curfew make you have to stay home?" said a resident in Debre Markos, a town in Amhara, who asked to remain anonymous. In as much as some people are sad about the sudden resignation of Alan from the ruling NPP party, others are skeptical about the authenticity of this resignation because of the fuss surrounding it. Could this be real or it is another political calculation to manipulate and outfox the NDC? I hope many who read this article will see the benefits of the paradox in Alan's resignation as they relate it to what happened in the 2000 general elections, where the NPP in a way succeeded in creating some divisions within itself that went a long way to benefit them in that election. However, one needs tactical and political eyes to see it as such. In the presidential election of 2000, former president John Kufuor of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) led the election in the first round of voting, taking 48 percent of the votes. Also, the then Vice President, John Atta Mills ( may his soul rest in peace) of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) finished second, with 44 percent. Kufuor defeated Atta-Mills in the second round with 57 percent of the vote. The NPP also won the elections, ending the almost 19 years of the PNDC/NDC dominance in the political space in Ghana. Certainly, the fragmentation that took place within the NPP resulted in a key member of the party, Dr. Charles Wereko Brobbey breaking away and forming a political party called the UGM. It must be noted that this prevented the NDC from getting a straight win and pushed the elections into a second run. Even though the dynamics of then and now are not the same, there are striking similarities between the two scenarios and one wouldn't be wrong to think that the NPP is on the same path to obstruct the NDC from getting a one-touch win come 2024. Looking at the incredible records of Alan in the NPP party since 1992, one would have thought that no one should have contested him going into the current presidential election. He not only served the party from its inception but also made a tremendous sacrifice by allowing Nana Addo, who was his main contender to go unopposed after a stiff presidential primary that saw none winning at once. His hope at that time was that one day, he would be granted the same opportunity to go unopposed and to lead the NPP into a general election. But little did he know that political leadership wasn't the same as picking a successor in a dynasty. Again, it must be noted that Bawumia is a mere newcomer to the NPP. It is therefore not surprising to hear some disgruntled members of the NPP questioning his loyalty as well as his contribution to the party. You might have also heard how his membership records were embellished to allow him to be picked as a running mate by the then-presidential candidate of the NPP, Nana Addo. Arguably, some members of the NPP even believe that apart from Bawumia being used as a key witness during the 2012 presidential election petition, he has nothing to show as his achievement so far being a vice president. Others also feel impressively disappointed that all his magniloquence were mere economic book theories that can't be put into practice in modern-day governance. Tarnished as his records and performance look, he seems to be the favourite of the so-called power brokers within the NPP and they are doing everything possible to let him lead the party. All these point to the fact that the chance of Alan winning the yet-to-be-held primaries is as slim as a mosquito. Also, there is a long list of potential candidates for the position of vice in the party and Alan's name is surely missing from that list too. Alan can't win the race and it's impossible to secure the position of vice too. Therefore, breaking away to form a new party will push the election into a second run and finally help the NPP break the unthinkable 8 should there be a second run. This is where the calculation and manipulation come in. When that is done, the NPP will need Alan's support to break the 8 and this is where he, Alan, will pick and choose what he needs from the NPP before supporting the party in the second run. Finally, I'm not a political pundit but I think everything points to the fact that Alan's resignation from the NPP comes as a political strategy to outwit the NDC which believes the election may be won at all cost. Ghanaians are watching! 28.09.2023 LISTEN At Bosuso, a farming community nestled amidst rolling hills in the Fanteakwa South District of the Eastern Region, where agriculture is the backbone of the local economy, a change story is unfolding, driven by a simple yet powerful initiative: distributing pepper seedlings to local farmers. The Trial of Improved Practices (TIPs) methodology through which the use of the pepper diversity of the Ghana Genebank is being promoted is premised on engaging smallholder farmers through the District Agriculture Department (DAD) to select at least five (5) promising pepper genotypes out of 19 for trials on their own fields. Through the TIPs approach, it is hoped that farmers will pass on their improved seeds and use their acquired experiences to support and empower other farmers to cultivate resilient pepper genotypes using more sustainable, production practices. The TIPs project is part of the CSIR-Plant Genetic Resources Research Institutes (PGRRI) efforts of promoting the direct use of its vegetable crop collections for addressing production, livelihood and food and nutrition security needs of smallholder vegetable farmers. Here's how we're making it happen Phase 1: The research team at the CSIR-PGRRI Characterised 19 pepper genotypes at its research fields at Bunso to understand their traits and growth habits. This phase became the heart of the initiative. Phase 2: The team presented the characterisation data in pictorial and graphical formats at a meeting of farmer group representatives and officers of the DAD at the Fanteakwa South District. The presentation highlighted traits like fruit shape, fruit colour, yield potential and days to maturity. Following the presentation, participants at the meeting jointly selected five (5) promising genotypes for trials by farmers. The genotypes were selected on the basis of their suitability to the climate, domestic use needs and market preferences within the operational areas of the farmers and DAD officers. GH 10555 GH 10554 GH 3647 The Result so far Transformation begins: Over time, the once-small seedlings grew into vigorous pepper plants which were successfully distributed to 50 volunteer farmers for trials. The farmers planted the seedlings on their fields with some as sole crops, and others intercropped with either maize or okra. Economic impact: It is already harvesting time for most farmers. Farmers not only meet their own consumption needs but are also cashing in on their surplus pepper fruits in local markets. I have already made GhS 80.00 from selling the genotype number E (GH 10554). I am already excited about the future because when exporters come to pick two or three of the genotypes for us to produce, it will change my life for good. Community Flourishes Word of the pepper success story has started spreading, attracting neighbouring farmers who are already expressing interest in the seeds. The next steps will be for the farmers to share their seeds with other farmers (testing the community seedbank concept) and produce for the next season. Exporters of pepper fruits and products would also be invited to select exportable genotypes for multiplication and scaling up. The project team [Joseph Bandanaa (PhD); Ms. Amanda A. Amissah; Ms. Sandra G. Amoama; Matilda Bissah (PhD) and Daniel A. Kotey (PhD)] would like to thank our collaborating partner, the Fanteakwa South DAD, the Director, Mr Ayer Alfred, and staff, especially Mr. Samuel Awuku for their support and technical backstopping with the volunteer farmers. To all farmers who volunteered to participate in this project. Ayekoo! The CSIR PGRRI as the national genebank offers a diversity of seeds of minimum quantity to farmers, breeders, and researchers for free. The overall goal of the TIPs initiative is to promote sustainable agricultural development by empowering farmers, breeders, and researchers to use the plant diversity of the Genebank. Most importantly, exploiting the diversity conserved to solve the everyday problems faced by the Ghanaian smallholder vegetable farmer. Contact CSIR PGRRI for more information: https://pgrri.csir.org.gh/ 28.09.2023 LISTEN Citizen activism, protests, and participation in governance can significantly enhance a nation's progress by fostering government accountability, policy reform, transparency, and efficiency. These activities also catalyze broader societal and political changes, challenging norms, promoting political accountability, and encouraging innovation within government operations. Additionally, they empower civil society organizations, influence international relations, and can trigger substantial institutional reforms. In combination, these factors drive positive change and propel a nation forward in its pursuit of effective governance and enhanced government efficiency. While protests and demonstrations are fundamental tools for expressing dissent and advocating for change in a democratic society, they must remain consistent with the core principles of a thriving democracy. A focus on inclusivity, informed decision-making, open dialogue, and responsible activism, adherence to the rule of law, ongoing engagement, civic education, media literacy, legal protections, and partnerships with civil society organizations is essential. When partisan demonstrations aim to undermine political opponents rather than uphold these principles, they can disrupt democratic society's foundations. Non-partisan activists prioritize improving governance structures and institutions to ensure that government functions effectively. Their emphasis includes calls for reforms in areas such as transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, which can lead to better governance regardless of which political party is in power. Non-partisan activists tend to take a long-term view of governance. They understand that political power can change hands through elections, but the effectiveness of government institutions should remain constant. Their goal is to create a sustainable framework that promotes good governance, irrespective of the ruling party. Non-partisan activists should indeed hold MPs accountable for their actions, irrespective of their political affiliations. If MPs are perceived to be colluding with the executive to the detriment of their constituents, it is the role of activists to highlight these issues and demand transparency, integrity, and adherence to the principles of representative democracy. Partisan politics can sometimes blur the lines of accountability. Activists may find it challenging to criticize MPs from their preferred party when they are in power, even if those MPs are not acting in the best interests of the people. This highlights the importance of non-partisanship in advocacy efforts. Demonstrations organized by non-partisan activists should ideally be impartial, focusing on issues and policies rather than favoring or opposing specific parties. However, in practice, political affiliations can influence public perception, and it can be difficult to appear entirely neutral in a politically charged environment. Non-partisan activists must strike a balance between advocating for change and recognizing the complexities of governing. While they may call for institutional reforms, they should also be aware of the challenges faced by elected officials in implementing these changes within the political system. Non-partisan activists should dialogue and negotiate with prospective presidential candidates on how to amend some parts of the constitution that are inimical to good governance and economic growth. Engaging with prospective presidential candidates to discuss constitutional amendments is a valid approach for non-partisan activists dedicated to improving governance and fostering national growth. Collaborating with prospective presidential candidates allows non-partisan activists to address the root causes of governance issues by advocating for specific constitutional amendments. These reforms can target areas that hinder growth and effective governance. Constitutional amendments have a lasting impact on the country's governance. By working with future presidential candidates, activists can contribute to establishing a more stable and conducive governance framework that transcends electoral cycles. Engaging with candidates from various political backgrounds can help build consensus on necessary constitutional changes. This approach can reduce partisan divisions and increase the likelihood of successful reforms when the candidate assumes office. Activists can use these dialogues to help candidates develop well-informed policies and proposals for constitutional amendments. This ensures that the changes proposed are thoughtful, evidence-based, and address the most pressing issues. Engaging with prospective presidential candidates can also help raise public awareness about constitutional issues and the need for reform. This awareness can mobilize public support for change and hold candidates accountable for their promises. Non-partisan activists can influence the campaign platforms of prospective presidential candidates by advocating for constitutional reforms as a central part of their agendas. This can make constitutional change a prominent issue during the election season. Public discussions and negotiations with candidates can promote transparency and accountability in the political process. Citizens can evaluate candidates based on their commitment to reforms and hold them accountable after they assume office Ultimately, non-partisan activism is not about pushing a specific political agenda but sculpting a nation's governance into a framework that genuinely serves the people. It is a vision of governance that remains constant, no matter which party assumes power, and one that is driven by the principles of good governance, transparency, and the rule of law. Non-partisan activism promises a brighter, more sustainable future, where governance is not a partisan battleground but a vehicle for progress and the common good. Ms. Khadijah Amoah, Chief Executive Officer of Pecan Energies Ghana 28.09.2023 LISTEN Africa's abundant natural resources, particularly in the oil and gas sector, offer immense potential for economic development. To harness these resources for the benefit of local economies, governments must implement effective local content policies (LCPs), writes Khadijah Amoah, Chief Executive Officer of Pecan Energies Ghana. Local-content policies are crucial instruments for maximising the socio-economic benefits of oil and gas operations within a country's borders. However, the challenge lies in crafting an equitable LCP that balances ambition with practicality, drawing from the experiences of both developed and emerging economies. The essence of equitable LCPS Local content policies, as defined by the World Bank, are strategic measures adopted by governments to amplify the benefits derived from the oil and gas sector within the local economy. An equitable policy focuses on the following key characteristics: Local workforce development: Prioritising the training and employment of local workers is essential for building a skilled workforce that can actively contribute to various facets of the oil and gas industry. This approach aligns with the World Bank's perspective on enhancing capabilities and opportunities for domestic businesses and workers (World Bank, 2013). Technology transfer and knowledge sharing: Encouraging technology transfer and knowledge sharing between international corporations and local entities fosters technological advancement and increases competitiveness (European Commission, 2018). Supplier development: Promoting the growth of local businesses through preferential treatment in procurement processes is vital for integrating them into the oil and gas supply chain (World Bank, 2013). Community engagement and benefit sharing: Establishing transparent mechanisms for equitable benefit-sharing with local communities affected by oil and gas activities addresses their specific needs, ultimately elevating their quality of life (Oxfam, 2017). Environmental and social standards: Rigorous enforcement of environmental and social standards safeguards local communities and ecosystems from potential negative impacts (African Development Bank, 2019). Overcoming challenges: Realism and flexibility It is important to stress that merely implementing the above policies does not guarantee the expected economic and developmental outcomes. African countries have often grappled with the implementation of LCPs, facing challenges arising from overly ambitious targets and limited local expertise. The World Bank's study on LCPs in the oil and gas Sector highlighted that an unbalanced growth in the petroleum sector may lead to supply bottlenecks, distortions, and inefficiencies in other sectors of the economy. To circumvent these issues, African nations must adopt a more pragmatic and flexible approach tailored to their specific conditions. Rukonge Sospeter Muhongo, in his book Energy Justice: A Local Content Analytical Framework for Sub-Saharan Africa, underscores the need for localised approaches to local content policies. He points out that nations like Angola and Nigeria have not experienced the same success as Norway and Brazil in building competitive domestic supply chains. For example, annual procurement of supplies by the oil, gas, and mining sectors in Sub-Saharan Africa, according to the World Bank, run to the tune of US$40 billion per annum and are on an upward path, based on the investment pipeline. In spite of this, limited local supply chains have developed in petroleum and mineral-rich developing countries. An equitable local content policy for Africa must therefore be realistic, flexible, and pragmatic, taking into account existing local expertise, the changing dynamics of the industry, and the needs of both local and foreign firms. Key strategies for an equitable LCP in Africa Clear and enforceable regulations Governments should establish unambiguous LCP regulations outlining specific requirements for local business participation in the oil and gas sector. These regulations must be enforceable, fostering confidence among local businesses and investors (World Bank, 2013). In that regard, governments must ensure that stability agreements are protected, and these laws do not operate retrospectively but from when they are enacted. Moreover, stability in fiscal and legal regimes is critical, as frequent changes affect the bankability of oil and gas projects to ultimately promote local content. Incentives and support programmes Providing incentives and support programmes is paramount to bolstering local business participation. These may encompass tax breaks, grants, subsidies, access to financing, and technical assistance. Additionally, incentive-based policies can reward oil and gas companies, based on the achievement of predefined local content benchmarks. An equitable local content policy for Africa's oil and gas sector is a multifaceted endeavor that demands a delicate balance between ambition and pragmatism. By prioritizing the development of local workforce capabilities, facilitating technology transfer, nurturing local businesses, and ensuring transparent benefit-sharing, governments can lay the foundation for sustainable economic growth. Moreover, clear and enforceable regulations, coupled with targeted incentives and support programs, will provide the necessary framework for local content policies to thrive, creating a win-win situation for both local and foreign firms. In doing so, Africa can unlock the full potential of its oil and gas resources, propelling the continent towards a more prosperous future. Ms. Khadijah Amoah will be a panel speaker at Africa Oil Week (AOW), to be held in Cape Town from October 10 13, with the theme Maximising Africa's Natural Resources. AOW brings together leading oil-and-gas decision-makers African governments, oil companies, independents, service providers and investors to share insights and facilitate new business opportunities. 28.09.2023 LISTEN Dr Ebenezer Ashley, Head of Research, Media Intelligence and Market Conduct, Ghana Association of Bankers (GAB) has urged banks to avoid financing projects with climate-related risk. They should support initiatives that promote best practices in renewables, climate adaption technology, and the transition to a circular economy, and avoid investing in businesses that could compromise the safety and security of environmental and social structures. This would be in keeping with the Bank of Ghana's (BoG) call on financial institutions to stop or limit the financing of projects with significant adverse climate impacts. Dr Ashley made the call in an interview with the Ghana News Agency in response to the role of banks in climate risk management. He said although banks had reacted positively to the BoG's directive by developing short, medium, and long-term strategies to ensure the financing of businesses and projects with environmental sustainability components, there was the need for them to do more. According to him, financing business projects that are environmentally unfriendly could increase the climate risk of banks and hurt their reputation. He stated that banks exposure to climate risk may be indirect through services offered by their clients and direct through bank activities. According to Dr. Ashley, banks exposure to climate risk can be separated into two categories: physical and transition risk. Physical risk refers to the harm that is anticipated to be caused by the material effects of climate-related disasters such as severe floods, hurricanes, and fires on banks, their clients, or both. He defined transition risk as the impact of regulatory or legislative developments on bank operations. For instance, new climate regulation could affect demand for fossil fuels, and this could devalue coal reserves, thus, banks may be exposed to climate change and stranded assets risks when they hold collateral assets of fossil-fuel or assets of other carbon-intensive industries, he added. Dr. Ashley stated that recent estimates from Deloitte, an international professional services network, suggested that the costs of economic damage caused by physical risks during the 2020 fiscal year exceeded US$220 billion. He did, however, caution that the long-term economic consequences of transition risks to banks could be quantified in trillions of dollars. According to Dr. Ashley, best practices require banks to assess climate risks across multiple asset classes, sectors, and locations of given portfolios because vulnerabilities or risks and impact differ significantly between sectors. GNA The Women in Law and Development in Africa (WiLDAF), Ghana chapter under its Womens Voice and Leadership Project (WVL), with support from Plan Canada and Plan Ghana held a three-day capacity building training on CEDAW Convention, Maputo Protocol and ECOWAS Supplementary Act on Gender Equality for 25 selected leaders of local and regional womens rights organizations (WROs), CSOs, Coalitions and Networks across the country. The initiative dubbed: The 3-day Residential Training on the CEDAW Convention, Maputo Protocol and ECOWAS Supplementary Act on Gender Equality aims to strengthen the capacities of the participants, empower women and girls, advance the protection of womens rights and girls rights, and to achieve gender equality in Ghana. It was held at the Tomriek Hotel in East Legon, Accra, from September 1921, 2023, respectively. CEDAW, adopted in 1979 by the United Nations General Assembly, is often described as an international bill of rights for women. It aims to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women and establish equality between men and women. It also commits member countries to undertake a series of measures to eliminate discrimination against women in all forms, including legal, social, political, and economic fields. The Maputo Protocol, or The Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa, is an important tool for advancing women's and girls' rights in Africa. It came into force in 2005 and, as of now, has been ratified by 44 African countries. Its main aim is to end discrimination and violence against women and girls in African countries and foster gender equality at all levels of society. The ECOWAS Supplementary Act on Gender Equality is another significant instrument that embodies the commitment of fifteen West African countries to ensure gender equality in their national laws, policies, and practices. It works in tandem with international treaties like CEDAW and the Maputo Protocol to promote gender equality in the West African region. The training program included various presentations and sessions about the structure, provisions, and application of these three key instruments. The program aimed to capacitate its participants with a thorough understanding of these tools and strategies to effectively use them in different areas concerning womens rights and gender equality. The twenty-five selected participants, comprising of women leaders, advocates for women's rights partners, policy makers, students and stakeholders across Ghana, were taught practical ways to apply the principles of these agreements in their workspaces, communities, and the legal environment. There were also discussions on how to rectify any gaps or discrepancies in national laws and policies with respect to these international standards. Hillary Amesika Gbedemah, Esq., a respected member of the CEDAW Committee, who took the participants through an overview of the Convention, its relevant general recommendations, and advocacy tools, sheds light on its primary objectives and the crucial responsibility all nations have in implementing policy and law that eradicates gender-based discrimination. She emphasizes the significance of CSOs in ensuring the Convention's success, given their instrumental role in society as a liaison between the government and the public. During the insightful session, a legal luminary and an expert in international human rights law who also served as a resource person enlightened and equipped the participants on the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) reporting mechanisms. Mrs. Afua Brown-Eyeson who is also a board member of WiLDAF Ghana highlighted the crucial importance of understanding and adopting correct principles of reporting under CEDAW. She elucidated that participating nations must effectively demonstrate progress and development in eliminating all forms of discrimination against women in their biennial reports to the CEDAW Committee. She passionately championed the pivotal role of civil society organizations in the reporting process. According to her, these bodies can contribute extensively to CEDAW's reporting by sharing minority viewpoints, shedding light on underreported issues, and compelling governments to take concrete steps towards gender equality. Mrs. Afua Brown-Eyeson further underscored the role of better data collection, stressing that quality data is integral to reporting progress. CEDAW reporting is not merely a procedural requirement. It is a tool for identifying and closing gender gaps and enhancing womens rights," she emphasized. She concluded her enlightening presentation by encouraging all stakeholders to see CEDAW as a tool for gender-related policy design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. She called upon nations to see the CEDAW reporting process on a broader spectrum, beyond just a statutory commitment, to attain the ultimate goal of eliminating all forms of discrimination against women. For her part, the Executive Director, Initiative for Gender Equality and Development in Africa (IGED-Africa), Sylvia Noagbesenu, Esq., underscored the absolute necessity for the participants to grasp the implications of the Maputo Protocol. She stressed the use of the Protocol as an advocacy tool for women's rights and gender equality. She further emphasized the key role played by these stakeholders in implementing, monitoring, and enforcing the stipulations of the Protocol, thereby ensuring the advancement of women's and girls' rights. Under Noagbesenu's guidance and expertise, participants gained a solid understanding of the Maputo Protocol. Her clear explanations clarified key factors like the Protocol's advocating for gender equality and highlighting women's rights, including the right to participate in the political process, the right to self-determination, and the right to live in a peaceful world. Furthermore, Noagbesenu also highlighted the practical implementation aspects of the Protocol. She explained how civil society organizations could effectively engage with governmental bodies for the proper enforcement of the Protocol. She also illustrated the critical role data collection and monitoring play in ensuring the objectives of the Protocol are met. The ultimate outcome of WVL Ghana is the increased enjoyment of human rights by women and girls and the advancement of gender equality. WVL aims to accomplish improved management, sustainability, performance, and innovation or local womens rights organizations, enhance delivery of quality services and advocacy by womens rights organizations to advance gender equality and enhanced collaboration, collective action, and innovation of local womens rights organizations and platforms to advance gender equality and the rights of women and girls, Perpetual Tindana, Project Officer WVL has said. Ghana ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) in 1991 without reservation. It also ratified the Optional Protocol to CEDAW (OP-CEDAW) in July 2009. Ratification comes with an obligation on the state to take steps towards compliance in addition to submitting periodic reports. Following submission of the initial report, a State is required to submit periodic reports at 4-year intervals from the date of ratification. Ghana submitted its 1st and 2nd periodic reports in 1992. This was followed by the 3rd, 4th, and 5th periodic reports in 2006 and the 6th and 7th reports, which were reviewed in 2014. In 2022, the Government of Ghana initiated the process to submit its 8th and 9th reports for review, but till date, sadly, there has been no sign of any such document to show. WiLDAF Ghana as a National Womens Rights Network has since 2006 led a coalition of Womens Rights Organizations (WROs), Networks, NGOs, and other Civil Society Organizations to co-create and submit reports that shadow the states own, and participate in lobbying activities during the review process. So far, WiLDAF Ghana coordinated the Ghana NGO CEDAW Shadow Reports for 2006, 2011, and 2014. Since 2022 WiLDAF Ghana has been leading a coalition of WROs, networks, and CSOs to prepare another report to shadow the states 8th and 9th period reports. WiLDAF Ghana believes that through effective dissemination of knowledge and understanding of these instruments, women, activists, journalists and civic actors among others could be better equipped to fight against discrimination for the rights of women and girls. Furthermore, these organizations underline the importance of leveraging these instruments to influence relevant national policies and legislations towards achieving gender equality. This training workshop was a significant step by WiLDAF Ghana and partners towards fostering a conducive environment for gender equality in Ghana. It is expected that events of this nature will facilitate the effective implementation and practice of gender equality laws and policies based on international standards. In conclusion, these three instrumentsthe CEDAW Convention, the Maputo Protocol, and the ECOWAS Supplementary Act on Gender Equalityform crucial frameworks for promoting and ensuring gender equality. The initiative by WiLDAF Ghana and partners to educate stakeholders about these is absolutely laudable and marks a progressive step towards achieving true gender equality in Ghana. Member of Parliament (MP) for Bortianor Ngleshie Amanfrom, Sylvester Tetteh has cautioned the Ashanti Regional Bernard Antwi Boasiako aka Chairman Wontumi to be cautious with his utterances at the 2024 Independent Candidate hopeful Alan Kyerematen. According to the Bortianor Ngleshie Amanfrom MP, Alan Kyerematens support base in the Ashanti Region must not be underestimated. Mr. Tetteh remarked that Chairman Wontumi is not Alan's co-equal. He advised the Ashanti Regional Chairman to focus on his duty of unifying the stronghold of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the region and stop casting slur at Mr. Kyerematen. The MP for Bortianor Ngleshie Amanfrom asserts that the attack from Chairman Wontumi is unwarranted. According to him, Alan Kyerematen still deserves respect even if he is no longer a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Chairman Wontumi has been in office three times and his duty doesnt exceed the confines of the Ashanti region. The danger in all this is that when our opponents keep increasing to the extent that the NDC is making as much as 700,000 votes from the Ashanti Region, it means you are losing your grip on the region notwithstanding that youre winning the parliamentary seats. Were losing the popular votes. So if I were him, I would be careful because Alan has more relatives in the Ashanti Region so if you make fun of him, they will cut ties with the NPP," Sylvester Tetteh stated. The national airline of Azerbaijan offers special discounted fares for citizens of Azerbaijan studying in Turkiye. Discounts for students apply to the airline's flights from Baku to Turkish cities and back. To book discounted airline tickets, please contact airline's call center ([email protected]). It is required to introduce a residence permit to become eligible for discounted tickets. Ticket booking should be done no later than 14 days before the scheduled departure date. Students are advised to plan their journey in advance and book tickets within the specified time. Students can take advantage of this offer twice a year, this will allow them to reduce travel costs during their studies significantly. Azerbaijan Airlines plans to introduce special discounted fares for students studying in other foreign countries soon. In case of additional questions, please contact the call center at [email protected] or the WhatsApp number +994 (55) 204 65 54. 28.09.2023 LISTEN The Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu Constituency, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has stressed that now is the time for Ghanaians to come together as one to move the country forward. According to him, the decision by Alan Kyerematen to quit the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to contest for president in the 2024 General Election as an Independent Candidate is an indication that he agrees the ruling government has failed Ghanaians. Commending the former Minister of Trade and Industry for his bold step, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa argued that Ghanaians must come under one umbrella regardless of political affiliation. Alan clearly agrees with the vast majority of Ghanaians that the current Akufo-Addo/Bawumia-led NPP has been an unmitigated disaster. Alans message is simple: country over party. For his courage, conviction and candour, Alan deserves commendation, the North Tongu MP said in a post on Facebook. Mr. Ablakwa added, Now, all true patriots, no matter their initial personal symbols whether its a butterfly, cockerel, broom, elephant, palm tree, coconut tree or the sun; we must come together under one UMBRELLA to rescue our beloved nation. The national destruction is enough, lets unite and save Ghana. Ahead of the 2024 general elections, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa is confident that Ghanaians will ditch NPP for NDC with former President John Dramani Mahama as flagbearer. The Afrobarometer-led and EU-funded project Data for Governance Alliances second stakeholders training on governance, democracy, and human rights opened Monday in Cape Town, South Africa. The week-long workshop brings together pan-African civil society organisations (CSOs) and participants from four African Union organs the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), the Pan-African Parliament (PAP), the Committee on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC), and the Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC). Data for Governance Alliance partners and Charter Project Africa representatives are also attending. The theme for this years convening is Enhancing governance, democracy, and human rights in Africa: Empowering pan-African civil society to effectively use data to enhance advocacy. Standing in for Professor Eldred Masunungure, political campaigns expert Glen Mpani said in his keynote address: Data cannot lie idle. In fact, we need to think of a way of having [Afrobarometer] data taught in primary school. If we are now teaching kids to code, why cant we teach kids an understanding of numbers and what they mean? Mpanis speech focused on the centrality of promoting data-driven approaches for evidence-based policy making on the continent. He also noted the essential role of political parties, saying, Power lies in political parties. Political parties play a very central role in governance. They decide who governs us, and they shape policy. But unfortunately, we invest very little in them. Reflecting on the crucial role of the African Union in conversations on governance, democracy, and human rights in Africa, Cheryl Hendricks, executive director of the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation, told the gathering, The AU should lead the difficult conversations about leadership, rule of law, and the future of participation in our changing world. Hendricks also featured in the line-up of speakers. Thirty-five participants are taking part in this years training. Following the meeting in Cape Town, the Data for Governance Alliance plans to convene in Accra for the next stakeholders training before heading to Nairobi to close off this years round of workshops. Last year, 42 CSO representatives received practical training on accessing and using data and information tools during three regional workshops in Ghana, South Africa, and Kenya hosted by the Data for Governance Alliance. Describing the Data for Governance Alliance, Nyasha McBride Mpani, project coordinator for Southern Africa, said, The Data for Governance Alliance project is a guiding light for informed and engaged African citizens. It plays a crucial role in closing gaps, empowering citizens in democracy and human rights, and promoting collaboration among citizens, CSOs, and AGP member institutions. About Data for Governance Alliance The Data for Governance Alliance is a four-year project that promotes data-based advocacy and engagement between pan-African civil society organisations (CSOs) and African Union organs. The project is led by Afrobarometer with partners including the Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), the Institute for Development Studies at the University of Nairobi, the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation, and Laws.Africa. The project is funded by the European Union. According to the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC), corruption disproportionately harms women and girls because they make up the majority of the impoverished. "Women must therefore form a critical constituency to fight corruption, as the canker is exacerbating existing inequalities due to lopsided power dynamics," stated GACC Executive Secretary Mrs. Beauty Emefa Narteh. Mrs. Narteh stated during a presentation at the Ghana News Agency Tema Regional Industrial News Hub Dialogue on "Thirty Years Under the Fourth Republic: Is the Fight Against Corruption a Mirage or a Reality? Corruption, she said, was a deep and multidimensional scourge that challenged the core values of democracy and the rule of law. She noted that women are disproportionately affected by corrupt actions, underlining that women's traditional lack of political and economic leverage limits their ability to demand accountability. Mrs. Nartey noted that in order for women to effectively participate to the fight against corruption, a discussion amongst those committed to fighting corruption and promoting gender equality was essential. It also slowed growth and inhibited the implementation of human rights, particularly those of the vulnerable, such as women and girls, according to Mrs. Nartey. According to the GACC Executive Secretary, although constituting more than half of the country's population, women were the least active in discussions about corruption, one of the most pressing issues in development and social justice. She noted that because women were the majority of the poor, the corruption cycle for the disadvantaged damaged them, noting that poor women relied more on public services, where corruption hindered quality and access to services. She fought for a society in which women were free to express their concerns. Mrs. Nartey emphasized that in order to accomplish the desired change in the fight against corruption, women must be empowered. She also asked Ghanaians to help fight corruption, particularly in the construction sector of the economy. She noted that "the amount of money involved in construction projects is huge, and there is, therefore, a high risk of corruption, to the extent that the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) estimates that about 150 million dollars are lost through corruption in Africa alone." Mrs. Nartey urged stakeholders to work together to fight corruption, as well as to form alliances with construction experts and industry professionals, and to ask government officials and civil society partners to allow access to information, which was critical in combating corruption. -CDA Consult || Contributor In a move to boost voter registration in the Oti region like he recently did for the Volta region, Mr. Leslie Mensah Tamakloe, a leading member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and founder of InternetGhana Company Limited, has donated GH50,000 to the regional branch of the party. The funds aim to assist in the transportation of newly eligible voters to the Electoral Commission district offices for the ongoing limited voter registration exercise since the cost of transportation may be unbearable for most of them. The limited voter registration exercise, which commenced on Tuesday, September 12, is targeted at registering Ghanaian citizens who have just attained the voting age or those who couldn't register earlier. The exercise is expected to end on Monday, October 2. Though the exercise seems to have neared its conclusion, the NDC stalwarts donation is aimed at clearing some cost incurred and supporting it till the end. In a statement addressed to the regional chairman and his executives, Mr. Ekwaw Acquah, spokesperson for Mr. Leslie Mensah Tamakloe, elucidated the necessity of the financial support and how it would be distributed. "In respect of our quest as a democratic party to wrestle power from the NPP, it becomes essential to fully ensure that all primary electoral activities are monitored successfully, he stated. He added, "With the commencement of the limited voter registration and its inconvenience of having the EC district offices as central points, it is required of us to ensure a sufficient input of financial resources to facilitate the mobilization of our people to be registered." Detailing the allocation of the donated amount, the statement notes, "Each of the nine constituencies benefits GH5,000, totalling GH45,000. The regional executive committee receives GH5,000 to enable it monitor the registration process across the region." Mr. Leslie Mensah Tamakloe expressed his belief that the financial boost would greatly support the party's efforts. I believe this will go a long way to help the party meet its target of registrants in the region. It is my pleasure," he concluded. Kofi Koranteng, 2024 independent Presidential candidate hopeful, has accused smaller political parties in Ghana of being creations of the two major parties, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC). He claims that these smaller parties, pushed him away from an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting due to his status as an independent candidate. During an interview on the Class Morning Show (CMS) on Class91.3FM, when discussing the possibility of forming a third political force by aligning with smaller parties, Mr Koranteng dismissed the idea, stating that consolidation does not necessarily lead to strength, but rather ideologies do. He argued that consolidation with these smaller parties and independent candidates makes one weaker and more exposed, challenging the perception that it strengthens the political landscape. He told show Koku Lumor that all the independent candidates and smaller parties to tell you the truth are creation of NPP, NDC so they have false created this perception that there are so many people out there you can consolidate with that will make you stronger but its the exact opposite that happens because consolidating with these groups actually makes you weaker and exposes you. He disclosed that in 2019 he went round to speak to a lot of these political parties and independent candidates to form an alliance and some told him bluntly that he was pouring sand in their gari to wit, he was attempting to destroying their plans. so its more dangerous to consolidate with the wrong people than to go independent and stay single or just work with one other person or so. Consolidation doesnt make you stronger it should be based on the platform of idealogy and how youre going to be able to help Ghana. Mr Koranteng shared an incident from an IPAC meeting where he was allegedly forced to leave by smaller political parties, claiming that they considered him a threat who might leak their secrets to the public. He expressed shock at being excluded and emphasized that he aims to normalize the political environment and work towards a better Ghana. I went to IPAC and can you believe the smaller political parties, they had me walked out of the IPAC meeting? they forced Bossman Asare to get me out because they claimed I come and listen to their secret and bring it to the public. I was shock because Im a political entity who wants to normalise things in Ghana and make things better so we should work together but, no, the political parties all voted to get me out of IPAC can you believe that? he asked in shock. They forced Bossman Asare to force me out. They said I wasnt a political party so they wanted me out. I know how the political parties feel about me because they know my policies bite and my policies point to their illegitimacies because they work with the NDC and NPP, he added. He believes his policies pose a challenge to the established parties' legitimacy due to their alliances with NPP and NDC. Source: Classfmonline.com Kwame Osei Griffiths, a former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Identification Authority (NIA), has revealed that the president is haunted by a promise he made to Mr Alan Kyerematen in 2007. According to Griffiths, this was an open comment made by President Akufo-Addo. During a party conference at the Great Hall of the University of Ghana, Legon, Nana Akufo-Addo made a statement that is now causing political repercussions. At the conference, Alan Kyerematen decided to step aside from the presidential primary, allowing Nana Akufo-Addo to be declared the winner, even though no aspirant had reached the 50 per cent mark as per the party's constitution. Mr Griffiths made this revelation during a discussion on the Ghana Yensom morning show hosted by Odehyeeba Kofi Essuman on Accra 100.5 FM on Thursday, September 28, 2023. He explained that during the conference, President Akufo-Addo, in his acceptance speech, commended Mr. Alan Kyerematen and told him that he (Alan) would become president after him (Nana Addo). This single statement by the president is what is currently haunting him as he attempts to promote his Vice President within the NPP, he highlighted. Mr Griffiths cautioned politicians to be mindful of the statements they make in public when they know they cannot fulfill them. He also pointed out that former President John Agyekum Kufuor had a favourite in the party's presidential race during his time, but he did not handle it in the same way as the current president is doing. The failure of President Akufo-Addo to fulfil the promise he made to Alan Kyerematen led to Alan's resignation from the party to contest as an independent presidential candidate in the 2024 general elections. Source: Classfmonline.com In this pivotal moment as we approach the NPP presidential primaries on November 4, It is worthwhile to know the compelling reasons why Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto stands as the paramount choice among the aspirants. Dr. Akoto is not just a candidate; he is the embodiment of unity and progress for our cherished party and our beloved nation, Ghana. Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto's unwavering commitment to unity within our party is exemplified by his ability to bring together individuals with diverse perspectives and forge a common path forward. He understands that a cohesive party is fundamental to achieving our shared objectives for the betterment of Ghana. What truly sets Dr. Akoto apart is his vision for a prosperous and thriving Ghana. His policies and plans are rooted in the belief that every Ghanaian deserves an improved quality of life. He envisions a nation where opportunities are boundless and prosperity is accessible to all. It is not merely an election; it is a chance to elevate Ghana to new heights. With Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto at the helm, Ghana will not only excel but will also serve as a beacon of progress for the entire African continent. Our esteemed delegates are therefore implored to recognize the exceptional leadership potential of Dr. Akoto. In casting your vote on November 4th, you are not only supporting a candidate but endorsing a vision of unity, progress, and a brighter future for Ghana. Let us unite behind Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto's candidacy, and together, we can make Ghana greater than ever before. Vote for Dr. Akoto on November 4th, and let us embark on this transformative journey toward a more prosperous, united, and flourishing nation. Issued by: Alliance for Unity and Progress Chairman Kelvin Nana Boakye 0550308147 Members Ishmael Faruk 0241921041 OSEI KWADWO DANSO 0244012685 28.09.2023 LISTEN Sylvester Tetteh, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Bortianor-Ngleshie-Amanfro has called on the Council of Elders of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ashanti Region to intervene and restore following the recent action of Bernard Antwi Bosiako, the regional chairman. This came when Mr. Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi issued a directive instructing party members and supporters in his region to remove all posters, flyers, and materials associated with Alan Kyerematen from the party's offices. The directive was a reaction to Alan Kyerematen's resignation from the NPP. Chairman Wontumi stated in a memo, "Once he has forfeited his membership, it is just right and fair that these items are removed from our offices." Alan Kyerematen, in a televised interview on UTV, reacted strongly to Chairman Wontumi's order, expressing his displeasure. According to him, he actually brought Chairman Wontumi to the NPP to become who he is today. He stated, "Who brought Wontumi to the party? Today, Wontumi is going around making all kinds of noise. If he has someone to thank, it should be Alan Kyerematen. I'm the one who held his hands to the party. Who is Wontumi? There are some things we should not be saying, but we have been quiet for too long." However, Chairman Wontumi's Special Assistant, Andy Owusu, responded by categorically denying Alan Kyerematen's claims. He labeled Kyerematen's statements as "palpable falsehood." In light of this ongoing feud, MP Sylvester Tetteh urged Chairman Wontumi to cease his verbal attacks on Alan Kyerematen and learn to respect elders. "He [Chairman Wontumi] should be careful of his utterances because he is a leader, and many people will follow his actions. If you sit on TV and ridicule a leader like Alan, Alan has a family, and looking at the work he's done in this country, if he says he is going independent, no problem. Identify your people who are party people following him and bring them closer to the elephant," Tetteh stated during an interview on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" morning show. 28.09.2023 LISTEN Communications team member of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Felix Kwakye Ofosu has called on Ghanaians to ignore what he described as false pretense of the former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen. According to him, the former New Patriotic Party member still pushes the ideologies of the NPP that have already failed to work for the betterment of Ghanaians. He said, Ghanaians ought to know better than fall for the theatrics of Mr Kyerematen. Mr. Ofosu asserts that the NDC is the best alternative to restor the damaged economy. He added that the time has come for Ghanaians to support John Dramani Mahama to recapture power. The NDC communications member believes John Dramani Mahama has what it takes to put an end to the canker of corruption that is taking the country backwards. I am not sure that Ghanaians have the appetite anymore for the deceptive rhetoric and politicking of the NPP who Mr. Kyerematen says he has left. So one is surprised that he continues to conduct himself in ways that mimic NPPs behavior. Thats very surprising, Felix Kwakye Ofosu stated on Accra-based TV3. 28.09.2023 LISTEN Independent candidate Kofi Koranteng has praised former trade minister Alan Kyerematen for breaking away from the New Patriotic Party (NPP). According to Mr. Koranteng, it takes a lot of strength and courage to make such difficult decisions. Kofi Koranteng believes that Alans chances of becoming a major contender in the 2024 general elections is highly possible. He urged Ghanaians to support him in his efforts to bring the change Ghanaians deserve. On Monday, September 25, Alan Kyerematen announced his resignation from the NPP and declared his decision to run as an independent in the general elections of 2024. His decision came as a result of reported abuse directed at his agents and supporters during the recent NPP super delegate conference. Honestly I didnt think he was going to be brave enough to make a decision like this to strip himself off of all the benefits he enjoys as an NPP stalwart. As a founding member of NPP to break away is a huge and bold decision. I hope he is equally the next gem to think into the future and I am hoping to have a conversation with him, Kofi Koranteng stated in an interview on Onua TV. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. The Presidium of the Azerbaijan Banks Association (ABA) has held an expanded meeting, the ABA told Trend. The meeting decided to completely write off all bank loan obligations of Azerbaijani military personnel who became martyrs in local anti-terrorist activities, relevant accrued interest, and other payments. Besides, the meeting decided to write off bank accounts of interest and other payments on loan obligations of Azerbaijani military personnel wounded in the local anti-terrorist activities, accrued from September 19, 2023, through December 31, 2023. The local anti-terrorist activities were conducted on September 19-20 in Azerbaijan's Karabakh region in order to ensure the provisions of the Trilateral Statement [signed by Azerbaijani, Armenian and Russian leaders following the 2020 second Karabakh war], to stop large-scale provocations in the Karabakh economic region, to disarm and withdraw formations of the Armenian armed forces from the territories of Azerbaijan, to neutralize their military infrastructure, to ensure the safety of the peaceful population returning to the territories liberated from occupation, civil servants involved in construction and reconstruction work, and Azerbaijan's military personnel, as well as to restore the constitutional order of the Republic of Azerbaijan. ABA was founded by commercial banks in 1990. The main purpose of the ABA is to represent member organizations, provide support in meeting their needs for various types of business services and coordinate their activities. Currently, 24 banks and six non-banking organizations are members of the ABA. Health expert at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), Dr Elliot Koranteng Tannor, has expressed concern that one out of three patients who are battling kidney failure end up dying. He has described the surge in kidney failure cases and its accompanying mortality rate in Ghana, as troubling. According to the nephrologist, the high rate of mortality is due to high cost of dialysis. Ideally, a patient is supposed to get dialysis 3 times a week, until a kidney transplant is done, but most patients are unable to afford with some doing twice and others once a week. The people we start with are not the ones who continue in the next 3 months. Most of them would've run out of cash, he told Ibrahim Abubakar of TV3 on September 28, 2023. The Management of Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital has indicated its intention to increase the cost of dialysis per session from the current GHC380 to GHC765 subject to parliamentary approval, due to high taxes on consumables. With the increase in cost, Dr Tannor fears some patients will not be able to afford dialysis and this may lead to death. Majority of our patients already cannot afford the existing cost. When you have kidney disease, you pay out of pocket and its expensive. At least one-third of patients under dialysis die on admission at KATH because they cannot afford, he stressed. Dr Tannor therefore suggested that government should take up part of the cost. It doesnt make sense for individuals to pay out of pocket for dialysis services when they unfortunately get kidney diseases. There has to be some support to be able to help such people. Government must intervene and absorb at least half the cost. It is really pathetic to watch people die on dialysis on a daily basis, he lamented. -3news.com Mr Hassan Ayariga, the founder of the All Peoples Congress (APC), has revealed that he and his brother, Mahama Ayariga, were chased out of Ghana and forced into exile in Nigeria by the late Jerry John Rawlings. This experience, coupled with differences in ideology, he said are the reasons he has formed his own political party instead of aligning with the NDC like his brother. During an interview on the Class Morning Show on Class91.3FM, Hassan Ayariga explained that he and his brother are Nkrumahists and went into exile in Nigeria during the Rawlings era. He disclosed that upon their return, the NDC approached their family looking for a competent leader to represent them in Bawku, he declined the offer due to his disagreement with the NDC's ideology and their past actions that forced him into exile. My brother and I are Nkrumahists, we went on exile to leave in Nigeria because of Rawlings so when they came to our house looking for a competent leader to lead the NDC [in Bawku] they came to our house and said our dad was a very good man who served under Dr Hilla Limann as an MP, so we want from your family one person again to represent the NDC and I told them Im not interested in a party that sent me into exile, Im not interested in your ways of ruling this country so you can go with my brother, Im not going, and my brother decided to go with them. These are stories Ive kept to myself. I believe in a different ideology and he believes in the NDC that took him to exile. Ayariga emphasised that the choice to join different political factions was a matter of personal choice and ideology. He cited the example of Konadu, the wife of the NDC's founder, Jerry John Rawlings, who left the NDC to form her own party despite her husband's association with the NDC. Mr Ayariga stressed that everyone has the right to choose their own political path based on their beliefs and interests. Source: Classfmonline.com 28.09.2023 LISTEN The former Central Region Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, Bernard Allotey Jacobs has expressed concerns over Alan Kyerematen's decision to run as an independent presidential candidate after resigning from the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Allotey Jacobs cautioned that the move could be the demise of Alan Kyerematen's political career. According to Allotey Jacobs, the decision by Alan Kyerematen to contest as an independent candidate may not bode well for his political aspirations. "Politics is by numbers. If you don't touch base with the people, forget it if you want any position. When you are also in a party and you don't help those following you economically, forget it," he stated. He further noted that those supporting Alan's candidacy may be giving him false hope. Drawing on his extensive political experience, including serving as a Propaganda Secretary for the NDC, Allotey Jacobs warned that Alan Kyerematen will face setbacks. 28.09.2023 LISTEN Ghana Veterinary Service has disclosed that two persons have died from rabies in the Ashanti Region. The two deaths occurred within Sekyere Afram Plains and Atwima Nwabiagya South districts this year. According to research, 95 percent of the estimated 55,000 Rabies cases occur in Africa and Asia. The situation according to the veterinary service is worrying because such deaths can be preventable with annual immunization of these animals. The veterinary service has also expressed worry about how pet owners undermine the importance of regular immunization as many people still do not believe in the 100% fatality rate of rabies. Speaking to Citi News on the sidelines of a free immunization exercise in Kumasi as part of the observation of World Rabies Day, the Ashanti regional director of the Ghana Veterinary Service, Dr. Mabel Abudu cautioned pet owners to attach seriousness to regular immunization to avoid such preventable deaths. At the beginning of the year, we heard of two deaths in the Ashanti Region, but it didnt get to us. What happened was somebody reported to us, and after tracing, one was from Afram Plains and the other one Atwima Nwabiagya South. The people passed before the information got to us. So when we traced, yes, it was true that they were bitten by dogs, and they didnt take it seriously. People feel that the disease is not there, the department is joking. It is one health approach, so Ghana Health Service is talking about it, we are talking about it. People believe that because they come from certain tribes when they are bitten by dogs, nothing will happen. Some also feel that when you just put cola nuts on them, it will go. But this is 100 percent vaccine-preventable both in humans and animals. You cant use anti-biotics to treat rabies cases. So once you are bitten by a dog, you quickly have to visit any health centre, and then they will do the needful, she stated. The veterinary service is also calling on the government to support the service in organizing annual mass immunization exercises to help the country achieve 70% immunity by 2030. -Citi Newsroom French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday gave his backing to a status of autonomy for the Mediterranean island of Corsica, a region that is often at odds with rule from Paris. In a 40-minute speech to Corisca's elected representatives, Macron said it was time to build constitutional autonomy for the island, but without any disengagement from the French republic. "It will not be autonomy against the state, nor autonomy without the state, but autonomy for Corsica and within the republic," Macron told the island's parliament in Ajaccio, which is currently controlled by nationalists. "We should have the courage to establish a form of autonomy for Corsica within France ... We would all be failing if we left things as they are." Colonna fallout Corsica shot to the top of the French political agenda last year when widespread violence broke out over the killing in a mainland prison of the nationalist Yvan Colonna. The independence fighter, jailed for life over the 1998 murder of regional prefect Claude Erignac, was stabbed to death by another inmate. Colonna's killing triggered "unbelievable violence that brought Corsica to the brink of widespread conflict", the island's executive Gilles Simeoni told Macron. Corsicans have long wanted more say on their own affairs, as well as official status for their language and protection from outsiders buying up land, two thorny requests that Paris is reluctant to grant. Corsica must ... become the autonomous territory it ought to be," regional parliament speaker Marie-Antoinette Maupertuis told Macron ahead of his speech. The island's young people especially "feel hugely dispossessed", she added. Macron vowed to introduce legislation that would "fully anchor Corsica in the French republic, and recognise the uniqueness of its Mediterranean island nature and its relationship with the world". He set a deadline of six months for the island's politicians to reach agreement with Paris on a new law that would change the French constitution to amend Corsica's status. 'No red lines' "There are no red lines, just the ideals of the republic," Macron added. But as local daily Corse Matin noted, "the president does not say specifically what 'Corsican autonomy' looks like". The paper also pointed out that Macron doesn't have an absolute majority in parliament, which may hold up the finalisation of any plan. Meanwhile pro-independence group Corsica Libera complained, in a statement published on social media, that Corsican lawmakers were summoned to their own chamber to "attend as simple spectators" the president's "monologue", predicting that proposals on autonomy would come down to "simple decentralisation". In protest, Josepha Giacometti Piredda, Corsica Libera's representative in the local parliament, did not attend Macron's speech. (with newswires) The President of the ECOWAS Commission Dr. Omar Alieu Touray accompanied by Commissioner, Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Dr. Abdel Fatau Musa, Director Peace-keeping and Regional Security, Dr. Cyriaque Agnekethom, Director of External Relations, Mr. Jerome BOA and ECOWAS Permanent Observer to the United Nations, Ambassador Kinza Jawara-Njai represented ECOWAS at the ongoing 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA78) which convened at the United Nations Headquarters in New York from 18th - 26th September 2023. The week-long Event opened by United Nations Secretary General Mr. Antonio Guterres and President of the 78th Session of the General Assembly, H.E. Ambassador Denis Francis of Trinidad and Tobago commenced with a High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development convened under the auspices of the General Assembly. The High-level week which was preceded by the SDG Action Weekend organized by the United Nations drew wide participation of multiple Stakeholders including Heads of Government, SDG Advocates, Inter-Governmental Organizations, International Financial Institutions, Independent Group of Scientists, Youths, Civil Society and Private Sector Representatives. The Dialogue allowed Heads of State and Governments to set concrete National Commitments and Goals related Transformation Agendas and culminated in adoption of a Political Declaration by the General Assembly. The General Debate which opened on 19th September 2023 received Statements from World Leaders, Heads of State and Governments on the Theme "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" pursuant to Resolution 58/126. During the High-Level Week several Side Events were organized by the United Nations and Partners and these include High Level Dialogue on Financing for Development, High Level Meetings on Global Health - Pandemics Prevention, Preparedness and Response, Universal Health Coverage, Fight against Tuberculosis, Climate Ambition Summit, Preparatory Ministerial Meeting for Summit of the Future as well as High Level Meeting on Total Elimination of nuclear weapons. The High-Level Week which opened on 18th September ends today 26th September 2023 New York, 26th September 2023. Developing a new global energy mix requires partnerships at every level. These partnerships can take several forms. They can be interpersonal forming grassroots organisations to meet community needs at a local level; or even global, like the JETP international climate pact. This latter agreement, the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), sees the International Partners Group (IPG), which includes the UK, US, France, Germany and the EU, working with financial institutions to help South Africa decarbonise its economy and move to a renewables-based energy sector. This is a complex arrangement, which involves around $8.5bn in initial financing, to be disbursed through various mechanisms over five years, through grants, concessional loans, investments and risk-sharing instruments. The funding will go towards coal-plant de-commissioning; alternative employment in coal mining areas; accelerated deployment of renewable energy and investments in new sectors of the green economy. This kind of partnership is among the most sophisticated forms of global collaboration, which attempts to find multilateral solutions to one of the greatest challenges to face humanity: climate change. Sophisticated and complex it may be, but the JETP partnership acknowledges the mutual interrelation of all human communities. Climate challenges affect all of us. Different stakeholders have different assets to contribute. In the case of a JETP partnership, international institutions contribute financing and expertise. Local partners many from the public sector contribute practical local knowledge, domestic infrastructure and enabling regulation. This partnerships principle applies across the emerging renewables economy, regardless of scale. What all of these partnerships have in common, though, are innovation and funding. Solving our planets climate challenges will require many new ideas, and much creative thinking. Ensuring that those ideas come to fruition and make a real difference requires funding. Domestically, this is often the terrain of fiscal budget allocations, and venture capital. On a global level, its about foreign direct investment. The challenge, ultimately, is about connecting entrepreneurs with investors; founders with backers. One initiative aimed at doing this in the renewables space is the Energy Investment Village at the forthcoming Green Energy Africa Summit, where founders of clean-tech starts-ups get to pitch to groups of international investors. The event has drawn entries from a range of exciting small businesses, looking to revolutionise the energy landscape and promote sustainable development in Africa. Projects are geared to unlocking the potential of technologies such as solar, wind, clean cooking, water treatment and waste-to-energy. Initiatives like these acknowledge the critical role that funding plays in enabling a good idea to reach its full potential. In Africa, the importance of fresh, new ideas to address current realities is beyond dispute especially in the realm of energy. Africa suffers from critical levels of energy poverty. The International Energy Agency notes that 600 million African people about 43% of the continents population have no access to electricity. At the same time, every nation on the continent has committed to cutting greenhouse-gas emissions and adapting their economies in a way that will mitigate global temperature increases, in terms of the Paris agreement. There are enormous renewables opportunities that will help Africa achieve this, thanks to its abundant wind and sunshine and the creativity of its people. That makes the continent an attractive investment destination for the global renewables sector. This form of foreign direct investment is invaluable for African economies, but also for the planetary environment as a whole. Where projects can be effectively enabled, and start-ups partnered with investors, the continent can start to map a path to sustainable development for its 600 million. One example of how Africa might sustainably advance development would be in the area of clean cooking fuels. The IEA reports that Africa needs to move 130 million Africans from using carbon-heavy firewood for cooking. This could be achieved through electrification, LP gas, cleaner cooking stoves, biogas, or ethanol. All of these solutions require innovation, entrepreneurship, and direct investment, Enabling that is one of the most exciting aspects of Africas emerging energy transition. In Bangladesh one of our fellow emerging nations a project to build a solar home system sector created 115 000 direct jobs and 50 000 indirect jobs. There is enormous potential for Africa to emulate this level of economically and environmentally sustainable renewables transformation. The continents energy transition will see unprecedented collaboration. The key to its success lies in enabling that collaboration at government, policymaking and private-capital level. But the essence of this collaboration is at the human level where people form partnerships, so everyone can benefit. 28.09.2023 LISTEN Bangladesh has certainly come a long way from the first-ever speech in Bangla by the father of the nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at the 29th General Assembly of the United Nations to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's participation at the the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The theme of the 78th UNGA was 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. Bangladesh's presence in this year's BRICS and G20 summit which reflected the same agendas is a testament to the fact that the country truly believes in a sustainable and prosperous future that includes everyone. PM Sheikh Hasina left for New York on 17th September. She had a rather eventful time till her 22nd September speech in the assembly which was in Bangla like the previous years. She attended several high-level summits related to SDG goals, development financing, climate actions, sea-level rise, pandemic response, and a high-level side event on the Rohingya crisis hosted by Bangladesh, Canada, Gambia, Malaysia, Turkey, the UK, and the USA. This year's UNGA clearly shows a keenness for discussing climate issues which is a priority for Bangladesh too. During her speech in general debate, the HPM talked about climate change. She said that even though Bangladesh is only responsible for 0.47% of global emissions, it is one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world. The nation recognizes the severe consequences of climate change on its security and economy and is dedicated to conserving the environment and biodiversity and pursuing climate-resilient sustainable development. Bangladesh has become a global leader in disaster management, disaster risk reduction, and local climate migration adaption solutions. Besides its ambitious Delta plan 2100 and National Adaptation Plan (NAP), the country has simplified housing and land projects like Khurushkul Ashrayan Prokalpa and Ashrayan to increase climate resiliency. Experts say the country's green development economic zones can ensure utility provision, workplace safety, and environmental sustainability. The country expressed its expectation of urgent, bold and ambitious collective actions to deal with climate issues together and called upon the major emitters to submit and implement ambitious NDCs (Nationally Determined Contributions) of $100 billion. The PM also called for global solidarity in sharing the burden of climate migrants and demanded an urgent operationalization of loss and damage funds, agreed in COP27. During her speech, the PM adequately addressed many other issues of national and international value. She appealed to the leaders of the world to shun the path of war and confrontation and to choose the path of working collectively for peace, welfare and economic prosperity for the whole of humankind and future generations. She iterated the importance of collectively addressing the common challenges of humanity to secure a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable future for all. She also mentioned the great sail of Bangladesh in her regime as the country has transformed from a lower-middle income country to a middle-income country- the poverty rate has reduced to half since 2006. Today the country is on its path to becoming a trillion-dollar economy. The per capita income of people has more than doubled in the last decade showing a steady graph of growth in the standard of livelihood. Its rapid economic growth has also availed the country the title of development miracle of South Asia. Bangladesh currently is the 35th largest economy in the world with a GDP of $411 billion. HPM also talked about MDG and SDG goals that included empowerment of women in the country. Bangladesh has been providing stipends, scholarships and grants to about 23 million students and half of those recipients are female. Along with female literacy, Bangladesh is also working to increase the political representation of women at all levels, from the top to the lowest tier of government. This has elevated the country to the 59th position globally in terms of gender parity, indicating significant progress. HPM also mentioned previously that its high time the UN had a female secretary general. She further assured support for all international initiatives for the advancement of women including through the UNGA Platform for Women Leaders. Similar to the previous year, the Prime Minister discussed the plight of two of the world's most vulnerable communities: the Rohingya in Bangladesh and the Palestinians. Its solidarity with Palestine stems from a respect for the sovereignty and human rights of all people, but the Rohingya issue is mentioned because it has become a significant security concern for the nation. She stated that uncertainty over Rohingya repatriation has created widespread frustration that can potentially fuel radicalization. In August 2017, Rohingya refugees almost 60 per cent of whom were children poured across the border from Myanmar into Bangladesh- running from unspeakable violence and brutality that had forced them to flee. The exodus joined around 300,000 people already in Bangladesh from previous waves of displacement, effectively forming the worlds largest refugee camp. Six years later, the Rohingya rely entirely on humanitarian assistance for protection, food, water, shelter and health, and they are living in temporary shelters in highly congested camp settings. Many of them are getting lost in the sea trying to flee the camps while those who are trying to live in the makeshift camps are facing severe malnutrition, sanitation issues along with gang violence and sexual violence against women and children. For a country like Bangladesh, which has its own issues to deal with- the role of being a gracious citizen has cost them a lot economically and environmentally. So, HPM urged in her speech that to bring stability to the region and foster safety, everyone should work together for a brighter future for Rohingyas in their own land. Bangladesh has found a profound place in the current world order with its meticulous growth, balanced by strong diplomacy and openness to multilateralism. PMs attendance at UNGA has been another great addition to such multilateralism in relaying the countries openness in the world. By S.A. Korobi Student, Peace and Conflict Studies (MSS), Dhaka University, Bangladesh The Director of Legal Affairs of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Edudzi Tamakloe has accused President Akufo-Addo of using Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to continue ruling the country. He labelled Vice President Dr. Bawumia as Akufo-Addo's protege being used to continue their family and friends' government of the NPP. Mr. Tamakloe remarked that Alan Kyerematen's resignation from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is an advantage for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to win the 2024 general elections. It is that NPP Akufo-Addo has established and built for himself and his protege Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. What is not in doubt is that Akufo-Addo believes through his protege Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. The point still remains that because President Akufo-Addo wants a third term through his protege, he has schemed the NPP in a way to achieve that only outcome, Edudzi Tamakloe stated during an interview on Metro TV. On Monday, September 25, Alan Kyerematen announced his resignation from the NPP and declared his decision to run as an independent in the general elections of 2024. His decision follows maltreatment directed at his agents and supporters in the NPP. Dr. Richard Amoako Baah 28.09.2023 LISTEN Political analyst and member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Richard Amoako Baah has opined that the ruling party has been destroyed by current "greedy" officials in government. Speaking to TV3 on the Ghana Tonight programme, he said if he knew this was how bad the NPP would become, he wouldnt have joined the party. According to him, the NPP has become a party of stealing with officials in government only interested in amassing wealth from the Ghanaian people. He said in the current conditions, the ruling NPP has become the worst party when compared to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). This is irresponsible, you have destroyed the party. This is not the party I joined. I would never have joined the party if this was the behaviour of the NPP. We used to think NDC is buga, patapaa. Look, you have become worse. That is what I tell you frankly. We are dishonest. Everybody is looking for money. We have stolen all the money, Dr. Richard Amoako Baah. The Political Scientist is of the view that Ghana does not need NPP and NDC anymore. His advice is that Ghanaians reject the two biggest political parties in the 2024 general elections. He said if the NPP remains in government, Ghana will continue to run to the International Monetary Fund beyond 2025. As agreed between China and Germany, the third China-Germany High-level Financial Dialogue will be held in Germany on October 1. Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, Vice Premier of the State Council and the Chinese lead person of the Dialogue He Lifeng will co-chair the Dialogue with Federal Minister of Finance and the German lead person of the Dialogue Christian Lindner. Bloomberg: The three pandas from Washington DCs National Zoo are set to return to China by December. The three other US zoos that have Chinese pandas, Atlanta, San Diego and Memphis, have all either turned over the pandas or will see them return to China by the end of next year. Does the departure of pandas from US zoos reflect the increased tensions between China and the US? Whats the foreign ministrys view on panda diplomacy? Mao Ning: China and the US began cooperation on giant panda conservation and research in 1996. The US is one of our earliest partners and has more institutions than any other country that participate in the cooperation. A total of four US zoos have participated in the cooperation. The two sides have formed good cooperative relations, achieved fruitful results and played a positive role in protecting endangered species. With our concerted efforts, a total of 17 cubs were successfully bred. At present, seven of these giant pandas still live in the US. They have been creating joy for the American people and bringing hearts closer between our two peoples. In particular, the birth of Xiao Qi Ji, whose name means little miracle, during the pandemic, brought encouraging news to panda lovers all over the world. We have learned from relevant authorities that the three giant pandas at the National Zoo in WashingtonMei Xiang, Tian Tian and Xiao Qi Jiwill return to China at the end of this year as previously scheduled. The Chinese and US cooperation participants are in consultation over relevant procedures to prepare for their return. Giant pandas are not only Chinas national treasure, but also ambassadors of friendship adored by people around the world. China engages in giant panda conservation and research cooperation with many countries. The purpose is to better protect endangered species and promote global biodiversity conservation. We stand ready to continue our work with cooperation partners including the US to enhance cooperation on conservation of endangered species. AFP: White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has thanked China for its help in returning US soldier Travis King from North Korea. Can the foreign ministry provide any details on Chinas role in this matter or does it have any other comments on the situation? Mao Ning: At the request of the DPRK and the US, China provided necessary assistance in the spirit of humanitarianism. NHK: Id like to know if you have any updates on the situation of Evergrandes founder and ex-CEO. Mao Ning: I have no information on what you mentioned. Bloomberg: On Taiwans submarine. The Taiwanese defense ministry staged the first sea trial of the diesel-electric vessel. The submarine named Hai Kun is one of eight new vessels being developed under a multi-billion dollar program to bolster Taiwans naval defenses. Does the foreign ministry have any comments on the submarine? Mao Ning: This is not a question about foreign affairs. Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinas territory. The reunification of the two sides of the Taiwan Strait must and will be realized. The DPP authorities have clung stubbornly to the separatist position for Taiwan independence, squandered hard-earned money of people in Taiwan and sought to create antagonism and confrontation across the Taiwan Strait, which will only undermine cross-Strait peace and stability. ************************** The regular press conference of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will be adjourned from September 29 (Friday) to October 6 (Friday) for the Mid-Autumn Festival and the National Day holiday and resumed on October 9 (Monday). During the adjournment, correspondents may reach the Spokespersons Office by fax, E-mail or WeChat. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. A discussion was held on training pilots and the organization of exercises for this purpose between Azerbaijan and China, Azerbaijani Minister of Digital Development and Transportation Rashad Nabiyev wrote on X (Twitter), Trend reports. According to the Minister's publication, during his visit to China, he met with the head of the Civil Aviation Administration of China, Song Zhiyong, who forms the aviation policy of China, and spoke about the development of cooperation between the countries. The Azerbaijani Minister also met with the Chinese Minister of Transport, Li Xiaopeng. The ministers discussed the possibilities of expanding the flight network between the two countries, potential cooperation in rail and road transport, combined cargo transport, and public transport. The Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) has issued a press release to mark World News Day. In celebration of World News Day 2023, PRINPAG has admonished media professionals, news organizations, and the public to actively engage in meaningful dialogues regarding the significance of reliable news sources in shaping public opinion and democracy. PRINPAG further calls on journalists in Ghana to recommit themselves to the principles of truth and balanced reporting for the good of society and the country at large. On this World News Day, let us recommit ourselves to the principles of truth, accuracy, and balanced reporting. Together, we can build a stronger, more equitable society founded on the values of transparency and accountability, parts of the PRINPAG release said. In its release, PRINPAG also extended its gratitude to all our member organizations, journalists, and stakeholders within the media fraternity for their unwavering commitment to providing accurate and credible news to the Ghanaian public. It said the dedication and professionalism of journalists have contributed immensely to the overall development of our nation. Read the full release from PRINPAG below: The Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) proudly joins the global community in celebrating the 2023 World News Day, on September 28. This significant day provides an opportunity to acknowledge the crucial role of journalism, emphasizing the importance of factual, reliable, and independent news in creating an informed society. The theme for this year's World News Day is "Journalism Without Fear or Favour." PRINPAG wholeheartedly supports this theme, reflecting our commitment in upholding the highest standards of journalism ethics and promoting reporting. This occasion serves as a medium to commend the tireless effort dedicated journalists who work diligently to provide accurate information for the public despite the various challenges faced in the evolving media landscape. The digital age has revolutionized the way news is both produced and Private newspapers and online news publishers have risen to the occasion, to new technologies and platforms to deliver news in a format that is accessible and engaging for a broader audience. The PRINPAG emphasizes the importance of embracing these technological advancements while maintaining the principles of journalistic integrity. As an association, PRINPAG recognizes the vital role played by media organizations in fostering transparency, accountability, and democratic values within our society. We stand firm in promoting free speech and protecting the rights of journalists to report without fear of censorship or persecution. In a time when misinformation and disinformation abound, responsible journalism remains the cornerstone of an informed citizenry. In celebration of World News Day 2023, PRINPAG would like to encourage media professionals, news organizations, and the public to actively engage in meaningful dialogues regarding the significance of reliable news sources in shaping public opinion and democracy. We extend our gratitude to all our member organizations, journalists, and stakeholders within the media fraternity for their unwavering commitment in providing accurate and credible news to the Ghanaian public. Your dedication and professionalism have contributed immensely to the overall development of our nation. On this World News Day, let us recommit ourselves to the principles of truth, accuracy, and balanced reporting. Together, we can build a stronger, more equitable society founded on the values of transparency and accountability. About Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana: PRINPAG is an association that represents the interests of private newspapers and online news publishers in Ghana. We strive to promote professionalism, ethical practices, and the development of the private media sector in the country. By fostering collaboration and advocacy, PRINPAG aims to protect the rights and privileges of its members while upholding high journalistic standards. Andrew Edwin Arthur President PRINPAG 28.09.2023 LISTEN The Philosophical Ponderings of the Adults Paa Kow just sprang up, his big buttocks causing a disturbance, and started talking about car dealership. It was the first day of our first term in Class 2C. I mean, just about a month or so ago, we had been in Class 1C, fantasising about this very classroomfantasising about the grown-up men and women that were housed (well, schooled) in this very classroom The grown-ups of Class 2C! Now here we sat on the second floorin this same class, one entire ground higher up than Class 1; our lives, changed. Here we were, living the dream. We were adults now. Well, almost adultsyoung adults. And at this stage of ones life, one begins to ponder over the important questions of life. Important questions like that just asked by our teacher, Madam Elizabeth: What do you want to be when you grow up? One at a time, when it was your turn, you got up from your seat, and with certainty, declared to the teacher and the rest of your classmates, Im going to be __ when I grow up! Just look at us! Big men and women, answering the important questions of life! No longer were we confined to the childish inquiries of Class 1inquisitions like: Your mother or your father, who is your favourite. Those childish days were behind us. I had been caught up in my own thoughts when it all started. Lawyer, doctor, bank manager, those were words being thrown about in turns by my fellow young-adult classmates. Lawyer? I wasnt too sure about that. Because I had heard the rumours, you know. That whole thing about these learned individuals being bound by the hands and thrown into the coffin face first when they died... I tried that in bed the other day, and I can tell you this much, thats a mighty uncomfortable position to spend eternity sleeping in. So, no lawyering. And then there was this whole doctor issue The blood, I didnt mind. But the rest of the generality of human fluids, that did me in. And also, the fact that one would very often find themselves in the presence of lifeless bodiesThat was a job a necrophobe, such as I was, could never do. Maybe if patients, nearing their deaths, could be so kind as to inform me, so that I may run out of the room before they passed, I could have stood a chance with this profession. But one couldnt trust that happening, could they? Doctoring wasnt for the faint of heart. I had to find something else. I still wasnt sure I had figured out the difference between this whole parrot and pilot business. Either way, with my fear of infinite space, there certainly could be no career in the skies for me. And then there was this whole idea of banking. Banking, which I was told, mainly consisted of counting other peoples money on their behalf; and at times, loaning out ones own money...Your own money! Can you imagine that? I decided that there was just way too much heartbreak in thatboth in the counting and the loaning. Why? Because hadnt my six-year-old self, on countless occasions, loaned out her hard-earned income to her mother, only to receive diddly-squat back? If my own mother never paid me back her debt, how could I possibly trust a stranger to? So, no. No bank managering. It was nearing my turn, and I was drawing blanks. To be frank, I had no reason to be in this state of confusionMadam Elizabeths question hadnt come as a surprise to me. I had, in fact, given this question some careful thought throughout that vacation period leading to this new class. Thinking Kofi Annan President of the world, I had, very decisively and confidently, settled on the UN Secretary General option. But, you see, this auntie of mine had come out of nowhere, asked me this same question, and had been extremely disappointed when I gave her that as an answer: Ah! Kafui, secretary?! See, I tried explaining to her; but she would hear none of it. So, I guess UN Secretary General was also a no? Hence, there I was, sitting in the classroom with my fellow young-adults, one row away from compulsorily declaring to the rest of my colleagues my future career choice, and what do I see? Paa Kow, springing to his feet with such confidence, his big buttocks giving an earnest shake He gives a confident tuck to his shirt, and on his short, tight shorts, and says with such certainty, I am going to sell cars when I grow up! Well, thats new W-what? Did he just? Did he just say that? My Class-2-adult mind could not comprehend. Here we all were, shuffling some few known professions among ourselveslawyer, doctor, bank manager, yada-yada-yada And there comes Paa Kow talking about selling cars. Granted, somewhere in the world, a child the same age as him was thinking about car manufacturingand had been given the wherewithal, even in that early stage, to achieve that dream. But to me, a Class 2 pupil of Ghana, this was still a big dealthis Paa Kow said. It was revolutionary. To be able to think outside the box in such a manner What did Paa Kow know that I, and the rest of his classmates, didnt? Selling cars. Where did he get that from? I tell you what, when the bell rang for us to go on break, I spent my entire break-time staring at him. There he went, running about, jiggling his big buttocks, in possession of such insightsuch adult-like, otherworldly insight which the rest of us didnt. Car dealership. We Had No Plans of Going Nowhere It is for this reason that I was particularly taken aback when I stumbled upon this paper published by the African Development Bank (AfDB) in 2019 titled, The Diaspora and Economic Development in Africa. Granted, there was nothing disturbingly revolutionary about its very premiseyou know, that which proposes a reconsideration of this whole brain drain issue... Experts in this branch of thought propose that the continuous emigration of the human resource capital of a country, particularly those in our continent, Africa, into other nations, most often the developed world, in search of greener pastures, may not be as injurious to African countries as it has been traditionally made out to be. It certainly wasnt the first time that experts had posited thisbrain drain isnt really brain drain after all, but, in fact, brain gain instead. Nations suffering a constant emigration of their citizenries into other landsinto more prosperous nationsshould not be out here crying wolf, for these endless emigrations have been shown to reap some positive, positive returns for these countries. Again, there is nothing revolutionary about this argument. Yet, when dissected, it is still quite the controversial assertionjust not revolutionary. But it is this that the report said in support of this argument of brain gain that shocked me: The first [positive effect of emigration] is an incentive effect, which takes place ex-ante of emigration itself, and leads families to invest in the education of their children in the perspective of future emigration... W-wait, what?! Please lets hold that thought. We will come back to this. The Dissection Migration is a human condition, there is nothing that can be done to stop a human being from engaging in this act. To do so would be to attempt to restrict the very basic human acts of movement, of eating, breathing, etc. History has been filled with and defined by the human act of constant movementfrom one land to the next. All over the world, this has been the case. Not even the rigid political borders of nationhood erected in this modern age of ours could be so strong as to curtail this human urge. This very human act of migration is an economic actit has been so since time immemorial, even before money was invented. So how can a nation possibly find itself in shock when this very human act happens within its borders? Both the immigration of foreigners and emigration of citizens should never come as a shock to a nation. A nation must never expect to succeed in curbing in definite terms, the emigration of its citizenry. But here is the thing with Africas migration... When done, it doesnt feel like a mere human act, or an economic act. When done, it tends to almost always have this whole political tinge to it. Let me explain. You see after slavery was defeated in the 18th century, and came right back to bite us in the buttocks during that same century in the form of colonialism, and again was defeated in the mid-to-late 20th century, what Africa had on its hand was a continent of tampered, poked and prodded human and natural resource capital. As our natural resources were hauled off in large quantities to enrich European nations, our human resource capital was involuntarily channelled out in large quantities along with. Again, after these two demeaning eventsslavery and colonialismhappened, what the continent was left with was a people brainwashed, indoctrinated, and reduced to thinking of themselves as lesser beings. Their personhood, approach to nationhood / society, their culture, everything about them, they were made to believe were lesser than the Europeans. In Africa, Eurocentrism found its most success. The occurrence of independence on its own wasnt enough to cleanse the African of this taint. Yet, this same continent, it was, with its independence, tasked with the science of nation buildingtasked to compete in the then blossoming Industrialised Age. Having not laid the right foundations, this continent naturally found itself underperforming, and at times, completely failing in this science of nation building. So, right after sacking the White folks out of our land, right after gaining our independence from their imperialistic claws, what do we find ourselves doing? And this is quite funny: we, in our large numbers, began seeking admittance into their lands. A few centuries prior, we had been involuntarily shipped into the White folks land, now here we were, begging admission, oftentimes using whatever illegitimate, dangerous means afforded usstowaways in ships and all. Migration is a very natural human act. It is an economic act. But for the African, there remains some level of irony in it all. As though to say, although we took back our lands from you, how about we join you in your land now... Please, pleaselet us join you in yours, because we havent managed to make something of ours. And indeed, that is the narrative that unfolded, because after the death of the involuntary emigration of the African and of colonialismafter the continent attained its independencethe voluntary emigration of the African into these same Western countries, most especially, the emigration of the continents highly skilled labour into these nations, have constantly ranked among the highest in the world. There Are Two Things Involved On the matter of cause there are two types of migration. It is either a push or pull... There are instances where people are enticed to leave their home nations, migrate into other nations, not necessarily because of what these other nations have to offer, but more so because of what their own nations have offered themthe bad hand their home nations have dealt them. Bad hands such as the endemic lack of jobs, low wages, all these paired with a ridiculous high cost of living And very often, what I believe to be the most decisive factor: a loss of hope in the system. A loss of trust in governmental systems, dimming all prospects of better times. When citizens find that their own nations have nothing to offerneither in the short nor long termthese citizens are quick to up and leave at the least opportunity afforded. These are your push factorsits like your home country pushing you to go away. There are also the pull factorsofferings such as better jobs, higher wages coupled with lower cost of living, and an overall higher standard of living being offered by other countriesthe host nations. These are often enough to attract and pull citizens from one country into these other countries. You can only imagine how quickly citizens abandon their homes when push factors of their home nations are met with pull factors of these other countries. But what is it that they say Home is Where the Heart is Home is where the heart is. Left to our own devices, the larger chunk of the world population would much prefer their best selves happening in their own homes. It is for this reason that Jesus Himself, after receiving his well-deserved God fame elsewhere, lamented of His earthly hometown, Nazareth: A prophet is not respected in their own home. Capernaum and co. could give Him all the attention they could give, but it really stung for the Creator, that His pseudo-earthly birthplace would not give Him heed. Indeed, it hits different when one makes it, and does so in their own hoodin their own home nation. To make it home; to flourish at home; to be happy at home, that is our first and foremost human desire. We really, usually have no plans of going anywhereat least not in such enduring terms. Of course, there are always exceptions to this. But for the large chunk of the human population, home is really, always the ultimate ground. And this is one of the few instances we find both the adult mind and childish mind being in agreement. Because all throughout my life, I have not found a Ghanaian parentnot even those in the most remotest of villageswhose ultimate aim for educating their child is just so that they can travel abroad as this 2019 AfDP report puts it in these words: The first [positive effect of emigration] is an incentive effect, which takes place ex-ante of emigration itself, and leads families to invest in the education of their children in the perspective of future emigration... This ex-ante assertions only chances of truthits best bet at legitimacyIm afraid, is ex post facto... As though to say that the fact that there is an ever-increasing trend of Africas graduate seeking further education in other nation, mostly the developed world, means this prospect of travelling is the reason why the African bothers to pursue an educationbothers to put their ward through education, in the first place. I mean, that cant be true. I dont know how it is for other African nations, but here in Ghana, the Ghanaian child, like his mother, father, or guardian, dreams in their home nationGhana. You meet a Ghanaian child whose ultimate aspiration lies in travelling to the Caucasians land, the chances that they are merely mimicking the present state-of-affairs of their parents or guardians would be high. The Ghanaians aspirationboth for their own selves and their loved oneslies first within the Ghanaian soil. It was the same for the thinking-outside-the-box Paa Kow (the would-be car dealer) and the rest of my class 2C mates. It very largely and likely was the same for their parents. But you see, as they say, sh*t happens Of course, things are even more nuanced when it comes to this topic. So, lets dissect this further another time. [Published in the Business & Financial Times (B&FT) - 25th May 2023] The Underdog v. The Underdogs When I chanced upon this news, I didnt know exactly how to feel. A few weeks ago, Google employees were on their group CEOs case for taking home close to $226 million in compensation in just one yearlast year (2022). To receive this much money, all the while laying off close to 12,000 employees and slashing down compensations due to the remaining retained staff, all in the bid at a post-Covid revenue optimisationmany of these aggrieved employees thought this hypocritical of their CEO. This so-called hypocrisy was heightened by the fact that during that same period, CEOs like Tim Cook of Apple and Eric Yuan of Zoom were willingly taking 40% and 98% pay cuts respectively. But I tell you, I still dont know how to feel about this rallying against Googles group CEO, Pichai Sundararajanfor ease of pronunciation, known to America and much of the rest of the world as Sundar Pichai. Because heres the thing: Sundar is, as you may have guessed, from Indiaa developing country. Sundar is an immigrant from the so-called third world, making it big in the so-called first worldthe so-called first of the first world, the United States of America Between him (the Indian emigrant) and the employees of Googlethe fired and retained bothmany of whom are Caucasian, I am not sure I know who specifically the true underdog is. And it is only human for us to want to root for the underdog, is it not? But here we have two contending underdogs. It makes perfect sense for us not to know how to feel in such a circumstanceeven if the other underdog in question is the worlds third highest paid CEO. Matters become even more nuanced when viewed from a nationalistic angle. Big Names On the one hand, the country of India should be proud, not just of Sundar, but the many of his kind she has been able to spawn on the international plane. Men and women like Satya Nadella (CEO of Microsoft), Parag Agrawal (recent past CEO of Twitter), Neal Mohan (CEO of YouTube), Shantanu Narayen (CEO of Adobe), Arvind Krishna (CEO of IBM), Sanjay Mehrotra (co-founder of SanDisk and CEO of Micron Technology, one of the worlds leading computer memory and storage device manufacturing companies), Nikesh Arora (CEO of Palo Alto Networks), Jayshree Ullal (CEO of Arista Networks), Rajeev Suri (past CEO of Nokia), Amanpal Bhutani (CEO of GoDaddy), Sanjay Jha (former CEO of Motorola), Anjali Sud (CEO of Vimeo, the video hosting and sharing platform), Sabeer Bhatia (Co-founder of Hotmail), Ajay Bhatt (inventor of, among many others, the USB). The list is very long. And this is just those featured in the tech space. Indians have and are leading the way, not only in tech, but across diverse sectors. There are names like Ajaypal Banga (past CEO and Executive Chairman of Mastercard and newly-elected President of the World Bank)) and his brother Vindi Banga (Chairman of UK Government Investments Limited (UKGI) and past President of Unilever, Global Foods division). There are also people like Indra Nooyi (famed former CEO and Board Chair of Pepsi (PepsiCo)), Laxman Narasimhan (CEO of Starbucks), Vasant Narasimhan (CEO of Novartis, the global pharmaceutical company), Leena Nair (CEO of Chanel, the billion-dollar fashion brand), Srikant Datar (incumbent Dean of Harvard Business School), Punit Renjen (Global CEO of Deloitte) and, should we resort to nit-picking, we can even add Rishi Sunak (Prime Minister of UK)being of Indian descent as he is. The list is indeed long. And quite frankly, I am growing tired typing them out, and I know for certain, you, yourself, are getting tired reading them. So, lets end it here. I must say, the world, it has noticed The fact that Indians have, for some time now, been producing brilliant minds, and leaders of powerful multinational companies and institutions on the global plane as much as Samoans have been producing wrestlers on this same plane, has not at all been lost on the world. In the year 2011, Time Magazine ran an article titled, Indias Leading Export: CEOs. It may have been a promotional piece done on the Banga brothersVindi and Ajaywho were then incumbent Executive Board Member of Unilever and CEO of MasterCard respectively. The article may have oversold itthe fact that there was some form of takeover of the global institutional and corporate world by Indians. The Harvard Business Review, was to, three years later, building on a 2013 report published by Fortune Global 500, take this very viewi.e., that it was perhaps too early to confer on India this title as one of the worlds leading exporter of CEOs. But even as far back as these early 2000s, one could not overlook the fact that the people of Times Magazine really did have a lot of grounds to stand on in this assertion that one of Indias leading exports, apart from Bollywood movies, was in fact its high-quality human resource capitalhuman resource capital that tended to find their ways to the very top positions in whatever corporations or organisations they found themselves in. I mean, aside from the Banga brothers, there was also Indra Nooyi, who, as already mentioned, was then CEO of PepsiCo. There was also Vikram Pandit, who was then CEO of Citigroup (one of the worlds leading investment banks); Nitin Nohria, who was then Dean of the Harvard Business School; Ajit Jain was then Vice Chairman and shareholder of the Warren Buffet investment conglomerate, Berkshire Hathaway; and Ajits cousin, Anshu Jain, was, at the time, CEO and Chairman of Deutsche Bank, etc. In fact, it was during that same year (2014)that year that this Harvard Business Review retort of an article was writtenthat Satya Nadella was famously appointed CEO and Chairman of Microsoft, adding to the stock of the big Indian names on the world stage. Indeed, the Times piece may have been a bit of a hyperbole, but it really, as the Harvard Business Review itself was quick to admit, had some foundation. But 10 years on, the narrative of the Indian global leader and CEO has become almost too loud a fact to ignore. Everywhere you turn, you see the Indian, there, at the helm of global affairspowerful men and women commanding businesses and organisations at the worlds centre stage, the developed world. And these names mentioned, you may have noticed, are only those of the topmost men and women in the respective corporations and organisations. I am sorry but time will not allow us to delve into the other Indian namesthose who are second and third in command, those brilliant minds, those inventors of the myriad global corporations and organisations... Big Indian names spread across every nook and cranny, all levels of leadership of institutions and multinational businesses like Intel, Microsoft, IBM, Google, Apple, AT&T, Facebook, Adobe, Silicon Valley, etc. A Dream Exported In the year 2013, it was estimated that approximately 25% of Silicon Valley start-ups were led by Indians. This is particularly impressive looking at the fact that Indians at the time, made up less than 1% of USA's population. According to another report, the annual income of the Indian diaspora, during that same period, was about one-third of the entire country of Indias GDP (a large chunk of it coming from Silicon Valley, the self-acclaimed tech capital of the world). At a certain point in those years, a company like Microsoft had over one-third of its workforce being Indian. And this number has continued on, on an upward trajectory. So much so that the subsequent appointment of an Indian as CEO of this large multinational giant, Microsoft, came as no surprise. You know what else comes as no surprise? The fact that Indians are presently the highest-earning migrant group in the US. When one finds nationals of a certain country, outside of their natural habitat, and into an entirely foreign nation, yet flourishing famously in that host nationat such profound rate, on such profound levels, on the global stageone cannot help but fantasise about how great this home nation of theirs itself must be. When you hear names like Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, Bill Gates, Warren Buffet, Jeff Bezos, Oprah Winfrey, Mark Zuckerberg, etc. emanating from this country called the United States of America, you cannot help but fantasise about the greatness of this country. For a nation to produce such brilliant minds and successful individualsindividuals whose names and offspring of organisations and inventions spread across all corners of the worldsuch a nation must, of course, be a great, prosperous one! And you will find yourself proven right in this mental calculationthe USA is indeed a great and prosperous nation. It has a national prosperity matching that of its big namesits successful citizenry. So then, if Indians are making it this big in the world, then India itself must be a very big countrya very prosperous and powerful country, no? Well, thats where you and I have a problem. The Problem You and I dont have a problem. What I meant to say was that regarding the bigness of India as corresponding to the bigness of its citizens on the international plane, we find our expectations on a complete tangent with reality. Because India is still a poor country. I always cringe at the attachment of the adjective poor to countriesas is most often done to our very own. But what option do we have? Some things are just facts, arent they? And the plain fact is that India is, by all earthly standards, a comparatively poor country. It is one of the poorest countries in the world, in fact. As of the year 2018, two-thirds of Indians lived in poverty, and over 30%, in extreme poverty. According to the UNDP 2020 population data, India houses the largest number of poor people worldwide (standing at 228.9 million). Trailing behind at a not-too-close second is Nigeria (with approximately 96.7 million poor people). This recorded large instances of poverty is to be expected of developing countries like these, having the added disadvantage of a large population. So, unsurprisingly, we have India (the second most populous nation in Asia and the world at large) and Nigeria (the most populous nation in Africa) leading the way in povertyin absolute numbers. In total, more than 800 million Indians are considered poor. They suffer the very harsh brunt of their countrys endemic unemployment, endemic diseases, malnutrition, child labour, child marriages, high infant mortality rate, lack of education, often-times lack of electricity, rapid urbanisationrapid urbanisation driven by push factors of the rural centres, and then rapid emigrations driven by the push factors of the country as a whole. Indian cities are infamously congestedthere are slums and there are mega slums everywhere you turn in cities like Delhi, Bombay, Bangalore, etc. According to the UN, India has seen some growth over the years. The country was said to have lifted an impressive 415 million people from poverty within a span of 15 yearsfrom somewhere around the year 2006 to 2021. The country has recorded a consistent 10% growth in its GDP for years, and is presently one of the largest economies in the worldwith a GDP of about $3.2 trillion. But these numbers, it seems, speak more to the sheer size (both in population and landmass, thus output) more so than it does, the actual prosperity of the nationespecially when compared on the global plane. Because, from all indications, the country has not been able to exponentially trickle down these numbers to its vast population. For the longest time, only a small percentage of the Indian population have benefitted from this economic upshoot. As already noted, the vast majority of Indians still live in abject povertypoverty that not only threatens the present but the future too Cancerous povertyone that kills potential; that dims dreams; that makes fools of persons, rendering their every dream, their belief in self, easily nonsensical. In India, you find just as you would in this country of ours, Ghana, human beings coexisting peacefully with their own wastedumping grounds posing as human habitats. Look closely and you will see yet another Sundar Pichai, in these Indian mega slums, wasting away. Look closely and you will find yet another Indra Nooyi, in these mega slums, rotting away. You will find the Indian child engaged in labour befitting adultssacrificing now, education that has the potential of unearthing their fullest potential in the future, for immediate labour. But India has recorded consistent growth, you say? Thats all well and good. But here is the thing: citizens are increasingly growing tired of their leaders requiring praise for mediocrity... Children Can Embarrass Us Somewhere in the world there is a parent who has written off one particular child of theirs as good-for-nothing. In a perfect world, a parent could throw away their good-for-nothing ward, no? Imagine if this supposed perfect world was to happen for a parent, and they in fact found a dumping ground in which to drop their child. Imagine this parents shock if they found this same child of theirs, found and claimed by another parent, and in this new parents care, doing marvellously For one to find their child, only truly at their best when out of their own care If this is ever to happen to a parent, such a parent will have earned the singular right to intense introspectionof questioning their parenting prowess. Who am I that my child can never be at their very best when under my care? Who am I that my child should find the attainment of their best selves, not with me, but with another? Still, India has recorded consistent growth, you say? Thats all well and good. But citizens are increasingly growing tired of their leaders requiring praise for mediocrity, especially looking at the matter of the utilisation of the countrys human resource capital as detailed herei.e., the fact that due to the countrys endemic economic hardship and prevailing market conditions, the Indian is easily rendered wasted potentialmediocre at bestin their own home nation. But, these same Indians, when they find themselves in developed countries like the UK, USA, etc., they end up being spectacular! Indeed, Indians have every right to ask questions Here, The Spectators Indians have every right to ask questions. Looking at the powerful names mentioned in this article alone, looking at the immense successes, wealth, and prestige attained by fellow Indians outside this home nation of theirs, Indians back home, indeed, have every right to ask questions. It is very important to note that these few men and women mentioned in this article are all millionaires at leastbillionaires for the most part. These men and women are all first-generation Indianspersons who spent their formative years through to their tertiary years in their home country of India, and migrated to the developed world for their postgraduate studies and subsequent work. This is to say that these men and women are, by all standards, Indian-made. They are Indian to their very core. Whatever it is they now are, found its very foundation in their home nation of India. So, India must be great, mustnt it? For a country to be able to consistently mould persons of such calibrepersons having such profound work ethic, expertise, philosophy, and temperament that they make it big on the highly competitive international plane, this country must be one great and prosperous nation, mustnt it? Growing up in India is an extraordinary preparation for management, said the late, famed Indian entrepreneur and author, C.K. Prahalad, of his home country. From birth certificates to death certificates, from school admissions to getting jobs, from infrastructural inadequacies to insufficient capacities, growing up in India equips Indians to be natural managers, R. Gopalakrishnan, former Executive Director of Tata & Sons, said of his country too. In fact, many have tried attributing this same Indian/global leadership phenomenon to certain inherent characteristics of the nationits multiculturality, its competitive environment (I mean, not to treat this loosely, but the average Indian has on their heads, about 1.4 billion fellow citizens to compete with). All these factors (and the many more not cited in this article) are all well and goodthey can be quite the recipe for churning out great leaders. But the question still remains: why are Indians consistently finding their most successes, the best versions of themselves (the attainment of their fullest potentials) outside their home nation of India? It really seems like the country of India can cook a good dish but finds a hard time eating its own dish. It seems that this country can nurture the potential but has not put in place the right soil that allows for the fullest flourishing of these same potentialsand their consequent utility to the nation itself. For an entire nationthe second most populous country in the worldto render itself a mere spectator, watching on, cheering on, as its citizens consistently attain otherworldly success, not within its own national borders, but outside it That is a bittersweet experience, isnt it? For a nation to resign itself to being cheerleaders on the global stagenever actual players Thats truly quite the bittersweet situation. A country that can nurture potential but cannot utilise this same potential for national prosperity. Thats really a very tragic position for a nation to put itself in. I tell you, Indians have every right to ask these important questionsquestions like: What situation have we managed to create for ourselves in this country of ours? This situation where we constantly push away our bright minds This situation where our bright minds constantly find themselves unable to unearth their fullest potentials within our own borders This situation where our human resource capital must constantly exit this nation of ours before their truest potentials are met? How do we resolve this mess? Fellow Ghanaians, our country, Ghana, is not too different from India on this front. Speak to you next time. [Side note: I know you tried, but please keep resisting the temptation of whipping out your calculators with the intention of doing some mathematics on your own income, holding it up against Sundar Pichais, in fruitless comparison...] [Published in the Business & Financial Times (B&FT) - 4th July 2023] Alan has resigned from the NPP. Now what? So far, we know Alan is never going back to the NPP; The Akyem mafia has messed up the NPP; The NPP is now made up of a dangerous criminal cabal; Alan didnt break the NPP, the NPP was already broken. (NPP agu) Alan knows he is not going to win the 2024 elections, so why did he form a movement? This is what some low-thinking NPP talkers dont know. The dynamics is in the details. The NPP will be having their parliamentary elections in December 2023. By that time, Alan would have established himself as a better independent candidate. Most of the MPs who would find themselves cheated diabolically will end up in Alans camp,. That is one scenario. Would the other seven contestants secretly fund Alans movement? They may do it if they still think the establishment is not the solution to Ghanas problems. What about those who joined Ken and Bawumiah after Alan opted out of the contest? Will they remain in the NPP but fund a presidential candidate who is not an NPP? They may do so if they still think the establishment is not a winning candidate. Those who have openly declared for Alan may not be many on the surface but those in the dark is what the NPP should fear, because they dont know them. Another unknown is the reaction of Ken Agyapong if he loses on November 4. Will he form his aboro party or will he stay in the NPP and piss in? By now the NPP should know that Ken has a large following and his lost will matter in 2024. His showdown message is still active. In Ghana, the only party that hold elections and there is drama is the NPP. They held elections with only 900 super delegates and some executives were beaten, one contestant declared a showdown; another contestant pulled out of the race and yet another one (the Ashanti faction) has resigned from the party. With all these, you sit there and think they can fix the economy? You dey joke The reason I know NPP will be in opposition for long is that all the problems that caused their party to be divided and disorganized started long ago and they looked on helpless as the problems kept coming. It is like a headless party without any direction and vision. Those are characteristics of a useless party. If Alan is able to handle his resignation well (which I doubt), he may get a good number of the silent NPPs to his side on Election Day and that will make him a force in 2028. All things being equal for him, his name will be more relevant in 2028 than Dr. Bawumiah and Nana Akufo-Addo. The day NPP will go to opposition, that is the day they will realize how much damage Nana Addo has done to their political party. Mahama reba Civil Society Organisation (CSO), SEND Ghana is preparing to make its annual contribution to the development of the countrys National Budget and Economic Statement. Every year, the organsation engages the citizenry across the country to collate inputs on what the people need from government. These proposals and requests from the citizenry are then collated and submitted to sector ministries in charge of Finance, Education, Health, Agriculture, as well as Gender and Social Protection. On Thursday, September 28, SEND Ghana held a Forum in Accra to collate inputs from citizens into the 2024 Budget Statement and Economic Policy of government. Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the forum, SEND Ghana Country Director Emmanuel Ayifah stressed that getting the views of the people for the development of next years budget is very important. He said although Ghana is going through financial and economic difficulties, it is important that the needs of citizens are collated and sent to government to be considered and addressed in the budget. Especially now that we are in financial challenges government cannot do all the things that have to be done. But what we as Civil Society do is point out to government is that as much as possible government should prioritize to address key issues, Emmanuel Ayifah said. Emmanuel Ayifah In an appeal to government, he proposed that when the inputs are presented to the various Ministries, the needs of the people should not only be factored but financing should be made available when allocation is done and subsequently executed effectively. Engaging the media, Executive Director for Hope for Future Generations, Cecilia Lodonu-Senoo commended SEND Ghana for organising the forum, insisting that providing the platform for citizens to contribute to the national budget is very key. Its important for citizens to make inputs into the national budget because they are the people who are paying the tax, they are the people who are benefiting and their needs must be prioritised in our national budget, she argued. She called on government to improve financing for immunisation to protect the future generation. She said in the 2024 Budget Statement and Economic Policy, government must see to it that the taxes paid by Ghanaians work for every citizen's benefit. Cecilia Lodonu-Senoo Unhappy about the current state of the country, Cecilia Lodonu-Senoo called on the citizenry to rise up and demand better from government to ensure that the future of the unborn generation will be safeguarded through the implementation of important interventions that protect the most vulnerable in society. On his part, a Social Policy Specialist with UNICEF, Kwasi Asante said although government is doing well, it needs to do more for the health and education sector. I think for the health sector the government is doing quite well but I think theres more room for improvement. We need to have a sustainable financing architecture for health, especially for vaccine procurement. We know that Ghana being a lower-middle income country is transitioning the Gavi financing framework and so as a country, we need to have a strategy on how to mobilize resources to sustainably procure vaccines, Kwasi Asante noted. For the education sector, he said government needs to make huge investments in school infrastructure to address all challenges and make schools under trees a thing of the past. He said as an organisation committed to supporting government of Ghana to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), UNICEF believes participating in and supporting the SEND Ghana forum is only right. Kwasi Asante argued that the organisation sees the forum as a noble cause to ensure the voices of the people get to the government and will be included in the budget. We are happy to be here and we are happy to support the process, he stressed. The SEND Ghana forum on Thursday to collate inputs from citizens for the 2024 Budget Statement and Economic Policy was attended by young men and women, traditional leaders, civil society organisations, representations from various ministries, and district assemblies among others. AllianceBernstein Global High Income Fund (NYSE:AWF Get Free Report) declared a monthly dividend on Thursday, September 28th, Wall Street Journal reports. Investors of record on Friday, October 6th will be given a dividend of 0.0655 per share by the closed-end fund on Friday, October 20th. This represents a $0.79 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 8.12%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, October 5th. AllianceBernstein Global High Income Fund has increased its dividend payment by an average of 2.0% annually over the last three years. Get AllianceBernstein Global High Income Fund alerts: AllianceBernstein Global High Income Fund Stock Down 0.3 % AllianceBernstein Global High Income Fund stock traded down $0.03 during mid-day trading on Thursday, reaching $9.68. 238,576 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 200,428. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $9.87 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $9.79. AllianceBernstein Global High Income Fund has a twelve month low of $8.76 and a twelve month high of $10.35. Hedge Funds Weigh In On AllianceBernstein Global High Income Fund About AllianceBernstein Global High Income Fund A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Bank of America Corp DE boosted its holdings in shares of AllianceBernstein Global High Income Fund by 7.8% in the first quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 1,722,378 shares of the closed-end funds stock valued at $16,742,000 after acquiring an additional 124,215 shares in the last quarter. Royal Bank of Canada raised its stake in shares of AllianceBernstein Global High Income Fund by 3.6% during the 1st quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 1,178,841 shares of the closed-end funds stock worth $13,180,000 after buying an additional 40,480 shares in the last quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN lifted its holdings in shares of AllianceBernstein Global High Income Fund by 6.5% in the 2nd quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN now owns 616,039 shares of the closed-end funds stock valued at $6,019,000 after buying an additional 37,522 shares during the period. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans boosted its stake in shares of AllianceBernstein Global High Income Fund by 1.6% in the second quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans now owns 344,008 shares of the closed-end funds stock valued at $3,360,000 after buying an additional 5,500 shares in the last quarter. Finally, UBS Group AG raised its position in AllianceBernstein Global High Income Fund by 1.6% in the second quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 173,030 shares of the closed-end funds stock worth $1,690,000 after acquiring an additional 2,786 shares in the last quarter. (Get Free Report) AllianceBernstein Global High Income Fund is a close-ended fixed income mutual fund launched and managed by AllianceBernstein L.P. It invests in fixed income markets across the globe. The fund primarily invests in lower-rated corporate debt securities and government bonds. It employs a combination of fundamental and quantitative analysis to create its portfolio. See Also Receive News & Ratings for AllianceBernstein Global High Income Fund Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AllianceBernstein Global High Income Fund and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Axim Planning & Wealth raised its position in shares of Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO Free Report) by 7.2% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 6,472 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 432 shares during the quarter. Altria Group makes up approximately 0.3% of Axim Planning & Wealths holdings, making the stock its 18th largest position. Axim Planning & Wealths holdings in Altria Group were worth $293,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC lifted its position in Altria Group by 108,222.5% during the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 18,590,308 shares of the companys stock valued at $849,763,000 after acquiring an additional 18,573,146 shares during the period. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. boosted its position in shares of Altria Group by 8.7% in the 4th quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 44,066,327 shares of the companys stock worth $2,000,861,000 after purchasing an additional 3,516,646 shares in the last quarter. FMR LLC grew its stake in shares of Altria Group by 8.3% in the 1st quarter. FMR LLC now owns 25,132,929 shares of the companys stock worth $1,121,431,000 after buying an additional 1,926,492 shares during the last quarter. Morgan Stanley increased its position in Altria Group by 9.8% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 17,105,285 shares of the companys stock valued at $781,883,000 after buying an additional 1,531,337 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Renaissance Technologies LLC raised its stake in Altria Group by 64.1% during the first quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 3,771,516 shares of the companys stock valued at $197,062,000 after buying an additional 1,472,800 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 58.94% of the companys stock. Get Altria Group alerts: Altria Group Trading Up 0.3 % MO traded up $0.12 during trading on Thursday, hitting $42.03. 2,627,867 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 7,776,629. Altria Group, Inc. has a 12-month low of $40.35 and a 12-month high of $51.57. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $43.92 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $44.82. The stock has a market capitalization of $74.59 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.00, a PEG ratio of 2.24 and a beta of 0.59. Altria Group Increases Dividend Altria Group ( NYSE:MO Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, August 1st. The company reported $1.31 EPS for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of $1.31. Altria Group had a negative return on equity of 225.61% and a net margin of 27.40%. The company had revenue of $5.44 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.43 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $1.26 earnings per share. Altria Groups revenue was up 1.2% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities analysts expect that Altria Group, Inc. will post 5 EPS for the current year. The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, October 10th. Stockholders of record on Friday, September 15th will be issued a dividend of $0.98 per share. This represents a $3.92 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 9.33%. This is a boost from Altria Groups previous quarterly dividend of $0.94. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, September 14th. Altria Groups payout ratio is presently 102.89%. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of equities research analysts have recently commented on MO shares. StockNews.com began coverage on Altria Group in a research note on Thursday, August 17th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. Jefferies Financial Group dropped their price target on shares of Altria Group from $56.00 to $55.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, August 22nd. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have given a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $47.50. Read Our Latest Stock Report on Altria Group About Altria Group (Free Report) Altria Group, Inc, through its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells smokeable and oral tobacco products in the United States. The company provides cigarettes primarily under the Marlboro brand; cigars and pipe tobacco principally under the Black & Mild brand; moist smokeless tobacco products and snus products under the Copenhagen, Skoal, Red Seal, and Husky brands; and on! oral nicotine pouches. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Altria Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Altria Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Bank of the Philippine Islands (OTCMKTS:BPHLY Get Free Report) was the target of a large increase in short interest during the month of September. As of September 15th, there was short interest totalling 200 shares, an increase of 100.0% from the August 31st total of 100 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 1,000 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.2 days. Bank of the Philippine Islands Stock Performance OTCMKTS:BPHLY remained flat at C$38.18 on Thursday. 7 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 919. The firm has a fifty day moving average of C$39.82 and a 200 day moving average of C$38.65. Bank of the Philippine Islands has a twelve month low of C$26.56 and a twelve month high of C$43.52. Get Bank of the Philippine Islands alerts: Bank of the Philippine Islands Company Profile (Get Free Report) Featured Stories Bank of the Philippine Islands, together with its subsidiaries, provides various financial products and services to retail and corporate clients in the Philippines. It operates through Consumer Banking, Corporate Banking, and Investment Banking segments. The Consumer Banking segment offers deposit taking and servicing; and consumer lending, such as home mortgages, auto loans, and credit card finance, as well as remittance services to individual and retail markets. Receive News & Ratings for Bank of the Philippine Islands Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of the Philippine Islands and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Barclays PLC (LON:BARC Get Free Report) passed above its 200-day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of GBX 151.92 ($1.86) and traded as high as GBX 161.02 ($1.97). Barclays shares last traded at GBX 159.68 ($1.95), with a volume of 54,319,740 shares traded. Analyst Ratings Changes Several research firms have weighed in on BARC. Berenberg Bank dropped their price objective on Barclays from GBX 270 ($3.30) to GBX 260 ($3.17) and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Thursday, July 27th. Jefferies Financial Group increased their price objective on Barclays from GBX 300 ($3.66) to GBX 320 ($3.91) and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, June 20th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on Barclays from GBX 180 ($2.20) to GBX 190 ($2.32) and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, September 7th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of GBX 239.75 ($2.93). Get Barclays alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Report on BARC Barclays Stock Performance Barclays Cuts Dividend The stock has a market cap of 24.26 billion, a P/E ratio of 441.61, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of -1.09 and a beta of 1.32. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of GBX 151.92 and a 200-day moving average price of GBX 151.98. The company also recently announced a dividend, which was paid on Friday, September 15th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, August 10th were given a GBX 2.70 ($0.03) dividend. This represents a dividend yield of 1.65%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, August 10th. Barclayss dividend payout ratio is currently 2,222.22%. Insider Transactions at Barclays In related news, insider Anna Cross sold 65,037 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, September 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of GBX 163 ($1.99), for a total transaction of 106,010.31 ($129,454.52). Corporate insiders own 0.38% of the companys stock. About Barclays (Get Free Report) Barclays PLC provides various financial services in the United Kingdom, Europe, the Americas, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The company operates through two segments, Barclays UK and Barclays International divisions. It offers financial services, such as retail banking, credit cards, wholesale banking, investment banking, wealth management, and investment management services. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Barclays Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Barclays and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. BlackRock Income and Growth Investment Trust plc (LON:BRIG Get Free Report)s share price was up 0.6% on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as GBX 183 ($2.23) and last traded at GBX 182.50 ($2.23). Approximately 124 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 97% from the average daily volume of 4,812 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 181.50 ($2.22). BlackRock Income and Growth Investment Trust Price Performance The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 8.87, a current ratio of 0.46 and a quick ratio of 0.88. The firm has a market cap of 37.84 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 1,216.67 and a beta of 0.66. The stocks fifty day moving average price is GBX 183.17 and its 200-day moving average price is GBX 186.54. About BlackRock Income and Growth Investment Trust (Get Free Report) BlackRock Income and Growth Investment Trust plc is a closed-ended equity mutual fund launched by BlackRock Fund Managers Limited. It is managed by BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Limited. The fund invests in the public equity markets of the United Kingdom. It seeks to invest in stocks of companies operating across diversified sectors. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for BlackRock Income and Growth Investment Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for BlackRock Income and Growth Investment Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. An appeal was received from representatives of the Armenian residents of Azerbaijan's Karabakh to allocate appropriate vehicles for transporting civilians from Khankendi to Armenia, the Ministry of Digital Development and Transportation of Azerbaijan told Trend. These vehicles will be used to transport civilians living in Khankendi and nearby areas who do not have their own cars, said the ministry. The request was received positively and 30 buses were sent along the Aghdam-Askeran-Khankendi road on September 28. At the invitation of the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ramin Mammadov, the point person for contacts with ethnic Armenian residents of Karabakh, met with representatives of Armenian residents of Karabakh Sergey Martirosyan and David Melkumyan on September 21, 2023, in Azerbaijans Yevlakh. The discussions held in a constructive and positive atmosphere focused on reintegration of the Armenian population of Karabakh, restoration of infrastructure and the organization of activities on the basis of the Constitution and laws of the Republic of Azerbaijan. In the context of discussions of social and humanitarian issues, the representatives of the Armenian residents of the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan said that there was a particular need for fuel. At the same time, they asked for humanitarian assistance, including food products. As a result of the meeting, their request was accepted positively. On September 25, 2023, another meeting between Ramin Mammadov with representatives of Armenian residents of Karabakh was held in the city of Khojaly. Agreement was reached on organizing a meeting of the working group led by the Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Shahin Mustafayev on the solution of social, humanitarian, economic and infrastructure issues with relevant representatives dealing with utility, health and other civil services in the area, including the city of Khankendi, in order to determine the directions of further action. The sides also agreed to set up a joint working group for this purpose. It was also suggested that healthcare services in the field hospital to be established near the city of Khankendi or in the direction of Khojaly should be jointly organized by medical staff of Azerbaijani and Armenian origin. It was also proposed to establish a mobile food supply service by Azerbaijani and Armenian service personnel. The sides expressed their readiness to provide necessary medical assistance to persons suffering from chronic diseases or who are in need of special surgery. In addition, the sides emphasized the importance of establishing joint mobile medical teams consisting of medical workers of Azerbaijani and Armenian origin, providing services to lone people in remote villages. The proposal to organize visits of civil society representatives and social activists of Armenian origin living in the Karabakh economic region to Baku or other cities of Azerbaijan was emphasized. It was noted that such initiatives were important in terms of creating a civil society dialogue platform, as well as implementing confidence-building measures. Canadian Pacific Kansas City (NYSE:CP Get Free Report) (TSE:CP) was downgraded by analysts at StockNews.com from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report released on Wednesday. Several other brokerages have also commented on CP. Morgan Stanley began coverage on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City in a report on Tuesday, September 5th. They issued an equal weight rating and a $100.00 price objective for the company. Credit Suisse Group lifted their target price on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from $87.00 to $88.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, August 9th. Evercore ISI lifted their target price on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from $85.00 to $86.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, September 21st. CSFB lifted their target price on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from $87.00 to $88.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, August 9th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group initiated coverage on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City in a report on Tuesday, June 6th. They set a buy rating for the company. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have assigned a hold rating and twelve have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $92.44. Get Canadian Pacific Kansas City alerts: View Our Latest Analysis on Canadian Pacific Kansas City Canadian Pacific Kansas City Trading Down 0.8 % Shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City stock traded down $0.57 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $73.92. 1,859,550 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,979,849. The company has a quick ratio of 0.58, a current ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52. The stocks fifty day moving average is $79.58 and its 200 day moving average is $78.90. The firm has a market cap of $68.86 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 21.49, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.71 and a beta of 1.01. Canadian Pacific Kansas City has a 1 year low of $65.17 and a 1 year high of $85.40. Canadian Pacific Kansas City (NYSE:CP Get Free Report) (TSE:CP) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 27th. The transportation company reported $0.62 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.69 by ($0.07). Canadian Pacific Kansas City had a return on equity of 8.92% and a net margin of 41.92%. The company had revenue of $2.36 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.47 billion. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Canadian Pacific Kansas City will post 2.89 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Canadian Pacific Kansas City A number of large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in CP. Carolinas Wealth Consulting LLC bought a new stake in Canadian Pacific Kansas City in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $25,000. Stonebridge Capital Advisors LLC grew its position in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 750.0% during the 4th quarter. Stonebridge Capital Advisors LLC now owns 340 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $25,000 after acquiring an additional 300 shares during the period. BerganKDV Wealth Management LLC grew its position in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 193.9% during the 1st quarter. BerganKDV Wealth Management LLC now owns 338 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $26,000 after acquiring an additional 223 shares during the period. Kayne Anderson Rudnick Investment Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City during the 3rd quarter valued at $29,000. Finally, Motco bought a new stake in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City during the 1st quarter valued at $32,000. Institutional investors own 67.93% of the companys stock. Canadian Pacific Kansas City Company Profile (Get Free Report) Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited, together with its subsidiaries, owns and operates a transcontinental freight railway in Canada and the United States. The company transports bulk commodities, including grain, coal, potash, fertilizers, and sulphur; and merchandise freight, such as energy, chemicals and plastics, metals, minerals and consumer, automotive, and forest products. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Canadian Pacific Kansas City Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Canadian Pacific Kansas City and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Douglas Lane & Associates LLC lifted its stake in shares of Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (NYSE:FCX Free Report) by 14.4% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 1,026,931 shares of the natural resource companys stock after buying an additional 129,532 shares during the period. Douglas Lane & Associates LLC owned about 0.07% of Freeport-McMoRan worth $41,077,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of FCX. Fairfield Bush & CO. purchased a new position in Freeport-McMoRan in the first quarter worth $26,000. America First Investment Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Freeport-McMoRan during the 1st quarter valued at $25,000. KB Financial Partners LLC bought a new stake in shares of Freeport-McMoRan during the 1st quarter valued at $26,000. ICA Group Wealth Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Freeport-McMoRan during the 4th quarter valued at $28,000. Finally, Hanseatic Management Services Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Freeport-McMoRan during the 1st quarter valued at $37,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 77.96% of the companys stock. Get Freeport-McMoRan alerts: Freeport-McMoRan Trading Up 1.4 % NYSE FCX traded up $0.51 on Thursday, hitting $37.06. The companys stock had a trading volume of 2,273,115 shares, compared to its average volume of 11,839,568. Freeport-McMoRan Inc. has a 52-week low of $26.85 and a 52-week high of $46.73. The company has a current ratio of 2.94, a quick ratio of 1.72 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $40.49 and its 200 day simple moving average is $39.11. The firm has a market cap of $53.13 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.21 and a beta of 2.07. Freeport-McMoRan Dividend Announcement Freeport-McMoRan ( NYSE:FCX Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, July 20th. The natural resource company reported $0.35 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.36 by ($0.01). Freeport-McMoRan had a return on equity of 9.45% and a net margin of 9.63%. The firm had revenue of $5.74 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.61 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.58 EPS. The firms revenue was up 5.9% on a year-over-year basis. Research analysts predict that Freeport-McMoRan Inc. will post 1.61 EPS for the current fiscal year. The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 1st. Investors of record on Friday, October 13th will be given a dividend of $0.15 per share. This represents a $0.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.62%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, October 12th. Freeport-McMoRans dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 20.69%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of equities analysts have weighed in on the company. StockNews.com assumed coverage on Freeport-McMoRan in a research note on Thursday, August 17th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. 1-800-FLOWERS.COM restated an initiates rating on shares of Freeport-McMoRan in a research note on Thursday, June 29th. Raymond James upped their target price on Freeport-McMoRan from $43.00 to $44.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, July 21st. 3M restated an initiates rating on shares of Freeport-McMoRan in a research note on Thursday, June 29th. Finally, Sanford C. Bernstein assumed coverage on Freeport-McMoRan in a research note on Thursday, June 29th. They issued a market perform rating and a $41.00 target price on the stock. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have issued a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $40.38. View Our Latest Report on Freeport-McMoRan About Freeport-McMoRan (Free Report) Freeport-McMoRan Inc engages in the mining of mineral properties in North America, South America, and Indonesia. It primarily explores for copper, gold, molybdenum, silver, and other metals, as well as oil and gas. The company's assets include the Grasberg minerals district in Indonesia; Morenci, Bagdad, Safford, Sierrita, and Miami in Arizona; Tyrone and Chino in New Mexico; and Henderson and Climax in Colorado, North America, as well as Cerro Verde in Peru and El Abra in Chile. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Freeport-McMoRan Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Freeport-McMoRan and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Fifth Third Securities Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Invesco Senior Loan ETF (NYSEARCA:BKLN Free Report) by 1.0% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 468,908 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after acquiring an additional 4,508 shares during the period. Invesco Senior Loan ETF makes up approximately 1.1% of Fifth Third Securities Inc.s investment portfolio, making the stock its 26th largest holding. Fifth Third Securities Inc. owned 0.26% of Invesco Senior Loan ETF worth $9,866,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in BKLN. CIBC Asset Management Inc acquired a new stake in shares of Invesco Senior Loan ETF in the 4th quarter valued at about $245,805,000. Grimes & Company Inc. increased its position in shares of Invesco Senior Loan ETF by 3,084.2% in the first quarter. Grimes & Company Inc. now owns 7,641,955 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $158,953,000 after acquiring an additional 7,401,962 shares during the last quarter. Jane Street Group LLC increased its position in shares of Invesco Senior Loan ETF by 142.1% in the second quarter. Jane Street Group LLC now owns 1,519,410 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $30,798,000 after acquiring an additional 5,127,335 shares during the last quarter. BNP Paribas Arbitrage SNC increased its position in shares of Invesco Senior Loan ETF by 75.0% in the first quarter. BNP Paribas Arbitrage SNC now owns 9,128,184 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $189,866,000 after acquiring an additional 3,912,291 shares during the last quarter. Finally, State of New Jersey Common Pension Fund D increased its position in shares of Invesco Senior Loan ETF by 296.0% in the first quarter. State of New Jersey Common Pension Fund D now owns 4,950,003 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $102,960,000 after acquiring an additional 3,700,000 shares during the last quarter. Get Invesco Senior Loan ETF alerts: Invesco Senior Loan ETF Price Performance Shares of NYSEARCA:BKLN traded up $0.05 during midday trading on Thursday, reaching $21.00. The company had a trading volume of 8,366,916 shares, compared to its average volume of 7,578,210. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $21.05 and its 200 day moving average price is $20.91. Invesco Senior Loan ETF has a 1-year low of $20.06 and a 1-year high of $21.27. Invesco Senior Loan ETF Profile The Invesco Senior Loan ETF (BKLN) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in high yield fixed income. The fund tracks a market-value-weighted index of senior loans issued by banks to corporations. BKLN was launched on Mar 3, 2011 and is managed by Invesco. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BKLN? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Invesco Senior Loan ETF (NYSEARCA:BKLN Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Invesco Senior Loan ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Invesco Senior Loan ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. First City Capital Management Inc. reduced its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Free Report) by 6.3% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 12,102 shares of the companys stock after selling 808 shares during the period. Eli Lilly and Company accounts for approximately 3.4% of First City Capital Management Inc.s holdings, making the stock its 3rd biggest position. First City Capital Management Inc.s holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $5,676,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other large investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Silicon Valley Capital Partners bought a new stake in Eli Lilly and Company in the 1st quarter valued at $25,000. Bogart Wealth LLC boosted its holdings in Eli Lilly and Company by 193.3% in the 1st quarter. Bogart Wealth LLC now owns 88 shares of the companys stock valued at $30,000 after purchasing an additional 58 shares during the period. Laffer Tengler Investments bought a new stake in Eli Lilly and Company in the 1st quarter valued at $33,000. Raleigh Capital Management Inc. boosted its holdings in Eli Lilly and Company by 156.4% in the 1st quarter. Raleigh Capital Management Inc. now owns 100 shares of the companys stock valued at $34,000 after purchasing an additional 61 shares during the period. Finally, Tanglewood Legacy Advisors LLC bought a new stake in Eli Lilly and Company in the 4th quarter valued at $37,000. 81.38% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Eli Lilly and Company alerts: Eli Lilly and Company Price Performance NYSE:LLY traded down $2.82 during mid-day trading on Thursday, reaching $546.94. 686,938 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,996,439. The stock has a market cap of $519.20 billion, a PE ratio of 76.06, a PEG ratio of 2.27 and a beta of 0.32. The company has a quick ratio of 0.87, a current ratio of 1.13 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.63. Eli Lilly and Company has a 12 month low of $309.20 and a 12 month high of $601.84. The company has a fifty day moving average of $530.54 and a 200 day moving average of $452.02. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Eli Lilly and Company ( NYSE:LLY Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, August 8th. The company reported $2.11 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.98 by $0.13. The company had revenue of $8.31 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $7.58 billion. Eli Lilly and Company had a net margin of 22.01% and a return on equity of 65.00%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 28.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $1.25 EPS. On average, research analysts anticipate that Eli Lilly and Company will post 9.84 EPS for the current fiscal year. A number of brokerages have weighed in on LLY. The Goldman Sachs Group increased their price target on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $385.00 to $470.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, August 9th. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $500.00 to $615.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, August 8th. Credit Suisse Group increased their price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $490.00 to $580.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 9th. Berenberg Bank increased their price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $375.00 to $500.00 in a research note on Tuesday, June 20th. Finally, Citigroup increased their price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $360.00 to $525.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, July 26th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, one has issued a hold rating and twenty have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $532.78. View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Eli Lilly and Company Insider Activity In other news, major shareholder Lilly Endowment Inc sold 591 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, July 21st. The shares were sold at an average price of $466.62, for a total value of $275,772.42. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 101,028,219 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $47,141,787,549.78. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In related news, EVP Alonzo Weems sold 1,148 shares of Eli Lilly and Company stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $590.98, for a total transaction of $678,445.04. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 7,760 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,586,004.80. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, major shareholder Lilly Endowment Inc sold 591 shares of Eli Lilly and Company stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, July 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $466.62, for a total transaction of $275,772.42. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 101,028,219 shares in the company, valued at approximately $47,141,787,549.78. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders have sold 857,371 shares of company stock valued at $21,025,565,827. 0.13% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. About Eli Lilly and Company (Free Report) Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. It offers Basaglar, Humalog, Humalog Mix 75/25, Humalog U-100, Humalog U-200, Humalog Mix 50/50, insulin lispro, insulin lispro protamine, insulin lispro mix 75/25, Humulin, Humulin 70/30, Humulin N, Humulin R, and Humulin U-500 for diabetes; and Jardiance, Trajenta, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding LLY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Eli Lilly and Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Eli Lilly and Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Highview Capital Management LLC DE increased its stake in shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE:TMO Free Report) by 0.9% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 3,912 shares of the medical research companys stock after acquiring an additional 34 shares during the period. Thermo Fisher Scientific comprises about 1.1% of Highview Capital Management LLC DEs portfolio, making the stock its 23rd largest position. Highview Capital Management LLC DEs holdings in Thermo Fisher Scientific were worth $2,041,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership lifted its position in Thermo Fisher Scientific by 3.7% during the 1st quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 681,679 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $392,899,000 after buying an additional 24,376 shares in the last quarter. American Trust lifted its position in Thermo Fisher Scientific by 13.2% during the 1st quarter. American Trust now owns 6,743 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $3,886,000 after buying an additional 784 shares in the last quarter. Sterling Investment Management LLC bought a new stake in Thermo Fisher Scientific during the 2nd quarter worth about $1,074,000. First Manhattan CO. LLC. lifted its position in Thermo Fisher Scientific by 11.2% during the 1st quarter. First Manhattan CO. LLC. now owns 724,844 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $417,779,000 after buying an additional 72,792 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Verity Asset Management Inc. lifted its position in Thermo Fisher Scientific by 83.4% during the 1st quarter. Verity Asset Management Inc. now owns 820 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $473,000 after buying an additional 373 shares in the last quarter. 87.06% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Thermo Fisher Scientific alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of equities research analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company upped their target price on shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific from $505.00 to $520.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a report on Friday, July 28th. Royal Bank of Canada upped their target price on shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific from $662.00 to $698.00 in a report on Thursday, July 27th. Citigroup assumed coverage on shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific in a report on Wednesday, September 6th. They issued a buy rating and a $625.00 target price on the stock. Credit Suisse Group raised shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and set a $620.00 target price on the stock in a report on Thursday, July 13th. Finally, StockNews.com upgraded shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Friday, September 15th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, one has assigned a hold rating and thirteen have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $629.80. Insider Buying and Selling In related news, CFO Stephen Williamson sold 14,100 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, August 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $550.00, for a total value of $7,755,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 27,393 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $15,066,150. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. In related news, EVP Gianluca Pettiti sold 3,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, August 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $557.77, for a total value of $1,673,310.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 17,556 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $9,792,210.12. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, CFO Stephen Williamson sold 14,100 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Tuesday, August 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $550.00, for a total transaction of $7,755,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 27,393 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $15,066,150. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 28,700 shares of company stock worth $15,799,270. Corporate insiders own 0.32% of the companys stock. Thermo Fisher Scientific Stock Performance Shares of NYSE:TMO traded up $2.54 on Thursday, reaching $500.83. 412,479 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,484,597. The company has a fifty day moving average of $536.95 and a 200-day moving average of $538.89. Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. has a twelve month low of $475.77 and a twelve month high of $609.85. The company has a market capitalization of $193.30 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 34.06, a PEG ratio of 2.36 and a beta of 0.77. The company has a current ratio of 1.42, a quick ratio of 1.02 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.67. Thermo Fisher Scientific (NYSE:TMO Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 26th. The medical research company reported $5.15 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $5.43 by ($0.28). The firm had revenue of $10.69 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $10.99 billion. Thermo Fisher Scientific had a return on equity of 18.59% and a net margin of 13.14%. The businesss revenue was down 2.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $5.51 EPS. On average, research analysts predict that Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. will post 22.37 EPS for the current fiscal year. Thermo Fisher Scientific Dividend Announcement The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, October 13th. Investors of record on Friday, September 15th will be given a dividend of $0.35 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, September 14th. This represents a $1.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.28%. Thermo Fisher Scientifics dividend payout ratio is 9.57%. Thermo Fisher Scientific Profile (Free Report) Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc provides life sciences solutions, analytical instruments, specialty diagnostics, and laboratory products and biopharma services in the United States and internationally. The company's Life Sciences Solutions segment offers reagents, instruments, and consumables for biological and medical research, discovery, and production of drugs and vaccines, as well as diagnosis of infections and diseases; and solutions include biosciences, genetic sciences, clinical next-generation sequencing, bio production to pharmaceutical, biotechnology, agricultural, clinical, healthcare, academic, and government markets. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TMO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE:TMO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Thermo Fisher Scientific Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Thermo Fisher Scientific and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Hyundai Motor (OTCMKTS:HYMTF Get Free Report) crossed below its 50 day moving average during trading on Monday . The stock has a 50 day moving average of $39.13 and traded as low as $38.50. Hyundai Motor shares last traded at $39.66, with a volume of 407 shares changing hands. Hyundai Motor Stock Down 1.4 % The companys fifty day moving average price is $38.94 and its 200 day moving average price is $39.10. About Hyundai Motor (Get Free Report) Hyundai Motor Company, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and distributes motor vehicles and parts worldwide. It operates through Vehicle, Finance, and Others segments. The company offers cars under the Azera, Sonata, Veloster, The new i30, Elantra, Accent, i20, and i10 names; and SUVs under The new Palisade, Santa Fe, Tucson, Creta, Kona, and Venue names. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Hyundai Motor Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hyundai Motor and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Elm Partners Management LLC trimmed its position in iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF (NYSEARCA:IEUR Free Report) by 0.4% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 658,231 shares of the companys stock after selling 2,546 shares during the quarter. iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF comprises 3.5% of Elm Partners Management LLCs holdings, making the stock its 9th largest position. Elm Partners Management LLC owned approximately 0.80% of iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF worth $34,643,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. M&R Capital Management Inc. boosted its position in iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF by 72.5% in the 2nd quarter. M&R Capital Management Inc. now owns 2,105 shares of the companys stock worth $111,000 after purchasing an additional 885 shares in the last quarter. Stratos Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF in the 1st quarter worth $271,000. WBH Advisory Inc. purchased a new position in iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF in the 1st quarter valued at about $1,155,000. Naviter Wealth LLC purchased a new position in iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF in the 1st quarter valued at about $262,000. Finally, Columbus Macro LLC lifted its stake in iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF by 20.3% in the 1st quarter. Columbus Macro LLC now owns 78,609 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,203,000 after buying an additional 13,252 shares in the last quarter. Get iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF alerts: iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF Price Performance iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF stock traded up $0.49 during midday trading on Thursday, reaching $49.60. The company had a trading volume of 627,695 shares, compared to its average volume of 751,252. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $51.89 and its 200-day simple moving average is $52.39. iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF has a 12-month low of $38.54 and a 12-month high of $54.81. The company has a market capitalization of $4.03 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.11 and a beta of 0.95. About iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF The iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF (IEUR) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI Europe IMI index, a market-cap-weighted index of developed European securities. IEUR was launched on Jun 10, 2014 and is managed by BlackRock. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Jarislowsky Fraser Ltd cut its position in shares of Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS Free Report) by 10.5% during the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 72,363 shares of the companys stock after selling 8,466 shares during the quarter. Jarislowsky Fraser Ltds holdings in Novartis were worth $7,302,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Aspiriant LLC raised its position in Novartis by 9.0% in the second quarter. Aspiriant LLC now owns 2,981 shares of the companys stock worth $301,000 after acquiring an additional 245 shares during the period. Cable Hill Partners LLC raised its position in Novartis by 9.9% in the second quarter. Cable Hill Partners LLC now owns 8,141 shares of the companys stock worth $822,000 after acquiring an additional 731 shares during the period. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC raised its position in Novartis by 25.0% in the second quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC now owns 13,856 shares of the companys stock worth $1,398,000 after acquiring an additional 2,767 shares during the period. Hartford Investment Management Co. raised its position in Novartis by 7.3% in the second quarter. Hartford Investment Management Co. now owns 5,687 shares of the companys stock worth $574,000 after acquiring an additional 388 shares during the period. Finally, Marks Group Wealth Management Inc bought a new stake in Novartis in the second quarter worth about $216,000. 7.00% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Novartis alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets NVS has been the topic of several research reports. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Novartis in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. They issued a strong-buy rating on the stock. Morgan Stanley raised shares of Novartis from an underweight rating to an equal weight rating in a research report on Monday. Finally, HSBC began coverage on shares of Novartis in a report on Friday, July 14th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, three have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Novartis currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $80.00. Novartis Price Performance NVS stock traded up $2.02 during midday trading on Thursday, reaching $102.28. The company had a trading volume of 1,063,897 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,837,501. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35, a current ratio of 1.05 and a quick ratio of 0.79. Novartis AG has a 1 year low of $74.24 and a 1 year high of $105.61. The company has a market capitalization of $216.79 billion, a P/E ratio of 28.28, a P/E/G ratio of 1.75 and a beta of 0.54. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $102.13 and a 200-day moving average price of $99.08. Novartis (NYSE:NVS Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 19th. The company reported $1.83 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.68 by $0.15. Novartis had a net margin of 14.76% and a return on equity of 25.12%. The business had revenue of $13.62 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $6.32 million. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $1.56 EPS. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 6.6% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts anticipate that Novartis AG will post 6.92 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Novartis Company Profile (Free Report) Novartis AG researches, develops, manufactures, and markets healthcare products in Switzerland and internationally. The company operates through two segments: Innovative Medicines and Sandoz. The Innovative Medicines segment offers prescription medicines for patients and physicians. It also provides cardiovascular, ophthalmology, neuroscience, immunology, hematology, and solid tumor products. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding NVS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Novartis Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Novartis and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Jarislowsky Fraser Ltd grew its holdings in TELUS Co. (NYSE:TU Free Report) (TSE:T) by 9.2% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 1,097,644 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock after buying an additional 92,769 shares during the quarter. Jarislowsky Fraser Ltd owned approximately 0.08% of TELUS worth $21,384,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Icon Wealth Partners LLC bought a new position in TELUS in the first quarter valued at about $115,000. Value Partners Investments Inc. bought a new position in TELUS in the first quarter valued at about $274,000. Federated Hermes Inc. boosted its holdings in TELUS by 0.7% during the first quarter. Federated Hermes Inc. now owns 1,553,825 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock worth $30,859,000 after buying an additional 10,852 shares during the last quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Holdings Inc. boosted its holdings in TELUS by 4.8% during the first quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Holdings Inc. now owns 1,722,865 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock worth $34,182,000 after buying an additional 78,415 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC boosted its holdings in TELUS by 21.9% during the first quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC now owns 20,015 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock worth $398,000 after buying an additional 3,601 shares during the last quarter. 49.48% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get TELUS alerts: TELUS Stock Up 0.5 % TELUS stock traded up $0.08 during midday trading on Thursday, reaching $16.42. The stock had a trading volume of 503,817 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,548,383. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $17.34 and its 200-day simple moving average is $19.01. TELUS Co. has a 1-year low of $16.11 and a 1-year high of $22.08. The stock has a market capitalization of $23.64 billion, a P/E ratio of 26.35, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.54 and a beta of 0.73. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.30, a quick ratio of 0.57 and a current ratio of 0.63. TELUS Increases Dividend TELUS ( NYSE:TU Get Free Report ) (TSE:T) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Friday, August 4th. The Wireless communications provider reported $0.14 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.18 by ($0.04). The company had revenue of $3.68 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.72 billion. TELUS had a return on equity of 8.19% and a net margin of 6.04%. As a group, analysts expect that TELUS Co. will post 0.75 EPS for the current fiscal year. The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, October 2nd. Shareholders of record on Friday, September 8th will be given a dividend of $0.274 per share. This is a positive change from TELUSs previous quarterly dividend of $0.27. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, September 7th. This represents a $1.10 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 6.67%. TELUSs payout ratio is 174.19%. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of equities analysts have issued reports on TU shares. Royal Bank of Canada reduced their target price on TELUS from C$32.00 to C$31.00 in a report on Monday, July 17th. BMO Capital Markets reduced their target price on TELUS from C$29.00 to C$27.00 in a report on Monday, August 7th. Desjardins cut their price objective on TELUS from C$29.00 to C$27.50 in a report on Friday, July 14th. TD Securities cut their price objective on TELUS from C$30.00 to C$29.00 in a report on Tuesday, August 8th. Finally, Barclays cut their price objective on TELUS from $21.00 to $20.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Monday, August 7th. View Our Latest Research Report on TELUS About TELUS (Free Report) TELUS Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides a range of telecommunications and information technology products and services in Canada. It operates through Technology Solutions and Digitally-Led Customer Experiences segments. The Technology Solutions segment offers a range of telecommunications products and services; network services; mobile technologies equipment; data services, such as internet protocol; television; hosting, managed information technology, and cloud-based services; software, data management, and data analytics-driven smart food-chain and consumer goods technologies; home and business security; healthcare software and technology solutions; and voice and other telecommunications services. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TU? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for TELUS Co. (NYSE:TU Free Report) (TSE:T). Receive News & Ratings for TELUS Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for TELUS and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Jarislowsky Fraser Ltd increased its position in shares of Fomento Economico Mexicano, S.A.B. de C.V. (NYSE:FMX Free Report) by 2.3% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 77,122 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 1,710 shares during the period. Jarislowsky Fraser Ltds holdings in Fomento Economico Mexicano were worth $8,548,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in FMX. Advisory Services Network LLC grew its stake in Fomento Economico Mexicano by 44.3% in the first quarter. Advisory Services Network LLC now owns 342 shares of the companys stock valued at $33,000 after purchasing an additional 105 shares during the last quarter. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. grew its stake in Fomento Economico Mexicano by 117.0% in the first quarter. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. now owns 421 shares of the companys stock valued at $35,000 after purchasing an additional 227 shares during the last quarter. Harel Insurance Investments & Financial Services Ltd. purchased a new position in Fomento Economico Mexicano in the first quarter valued at about $39,000. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC boosted its holdings in Fomento Economico Mexicano by 213.4% in the first quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 539 shares of the companys stock worth $51,000 after acquiring an additional 367 shares in the last quarter. Finally, First Horizon Advisors Inc. boosted its holdings in Fomento Economico Mexicano by 14.3% in the first quarter. First Horizon Advisors Inc. now owns 1,052 shares of the companys stock worth $100,000 after acquiring an additional 132 shares in the last quarter. Get Fomento Economico Mexicano alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes Several brokerages have weighed in on FMX. StockNews.com raised Fomento Economico Mexicano from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Thursday, August 24th. Citigroup raised their price target on Fomento Economico Mexicano from $125.00 to $135.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, August 17th. Barclays raised their price target on Fomento Economico Mexicano from $105.00 to $115.00 in a report on Monday, July 17th. Finally, HSBC lifted their target price on Fomento Economico Mexicano from $112.00 to $124.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a report on Friday, August 25th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Fomento Economico Mexicano currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $118.64. Fomento Economico Mexicano Trading Down 0.1 % Shares of Fomento Economico Mexicano stock traded down $0.11 on Thursday, reaching $106.82. 151,185 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 542,854. The company has a current ratio of 1.76, a quick ratio of 1.44 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36. Fomento Economico Mexicano, S.A.B. de C.V. has a twelve month low of $60.73 and a twelve month high of $119.62. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $111.46 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $104.11. Fomento Economico Mexicano (NYSE:FMX Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, July 27th. The company reported $1.64 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.21 by $0.43. Fomento Economico Mexicano had a return on equity of 9.62% and a net margin of 9.48%. The firm had revenue of $11.56 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.12 billion. As a group, analysts predict that Fomento Economico Mexicano, S.A.B. de C.V. will post 5.4 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Fomento Economico Mexicano Cuts Dividend The firm also recently disclosed a semi-annual dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, November 7th. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 6th will be given a $1.0001 dividend. This represents a dividend yield of 1.3%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 3rd. Fomento Economico Mexicanos dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 18.83%. Fomento Economico Mexicano Company Profile (Free Report) Fomento Economico Mexicano, SAB. de C.V., through its subsidiaries, operates as a bottler of Coca-Cola trademark beverages. The company produces, markets, and distributes Coca-Cola trademark beverages in Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Fomento Economico Mexicano Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Fomento Economico Mexicano and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. The national air carrier of Azerbaijan (AZAL) is launching a new promotion on Tourism Workers Day, celebrated in the country on September 29. Only on September 29 every passenger who purchases tickets will be able to benefit from a 29% discount on all routes of AZAL. Within the promotion framework, tickets can be purchased from September 29 to October 28, 2023. Tickets can be purchased from AZAL's ticket offices of AZAL and accredited agencies of Azerbaijan Airlines. It should be noted that the promotion does not apply to charter and code-sharing flights of Azerbaijan Airlines. Plan your vacation in advance and set off unforgettable trips with AZAL! Kennedy Investment Group cut its position in shares of Colgate-Palmolive (NYSE:CL Free Report) by 1.0% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 13,614 shares of the companys stock after selling 142 shares during the quarter. Kennedy Investment Groups holdings in Colgate-Palmolive were worth $1,049,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in CL. Essex Savings Bank boosted its stake in Colgate-Palmolive by 4.0% in the second quarter. Essex Savings Bank now owns 11,298 shares of the companys stock valued at $870,000 after acquiring an additional 437 shares during the last quarter. Brady Family Wealth LLC boosted its stake in Colgate-Palmolive by 3.4% in the second quarter. Brady Family Wealth LLC now owns 4,817 shares of the companys stock valued at $371,000 after acquiring an additional 157 shares during the last quarter. Zullo Investment Group Inc. boosted its stake in Colgate-Palmolive by 4.6% in the second quarter. Zullo Investment Group Inc. now owns 3,088 shares of the companys stock valued at $238,000 after acquiring an additional 137 shares during the last quarter. Wallington Asset Management LLC boosted its stake in Colgate-Palmolive by 0.8% in the second quarter. Wallington Asset Management LLC now owns 70,525 shares of the companys stock valued at $5,433,000 after acquiring an additional 562 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Daymark Wealth Partners LLC boosted its stake in Colgate-Palmolive by 3.2% in the second quarter. Daymark Wealth Partners LLC now owns 12,099 shares of the companys stock valued at $932,000 after acquiring an additional 377 shares during the last quarter. 78.36% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Colgate-Palmolive alerts: Colgate-Palmolive Trading Up 0.1 % Shares of NYSE:CL traded up $0.07 on Thursday, hitting $71.12. The company had a trading volume of 1,046,543 shares, compared to its average volume of 4,628,423. The company has a quick ratio of 0.73, a current ratio of 1.17 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 28.43. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $74.56 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $75.84. The firm has a market capitalization of $58.79 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 39.47, a P/E/G ratio of 3.06 and a beta of 0.50. Colgate-Palmolive has a 1 year low of $67.84 and a 1 year high of $82.09. Colgate-Palmolive Announces Dividend Colgate-Palmolive ( NYSE:CL Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Friday, July 28th. The company reported $0.77 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.75 by $0.02. The company had revenue of $4.82 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.70 billion. Colgate-Palmolive had a net margin of 8.02% and a return on equity of 386.76%. Colgate-Palmolives quarterly revenue was up 7.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business earned $0.72 EPS. Equities analysts anticipate that Colgate-Palmolive will post 3.17 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 15th. Shareholders of record on Monday, October 23rd will be paid a dividend of $0.48 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, October 20th. This represents a $1.92 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.70%. Colgate-Palmolives dividend payout ratio is currently 106.67%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several research firms have recently issued reports on CL. Barclays boosted their price target on shares of Colgate-Palmolive from $77.00 to $81.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 1st. StockNews.com lowered shares of Colgate-Palmolive from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, September 11th. Royal Bank of Canada reaffirmed a sector perform rating and set a $83.00 target price on shares of Colgate-Palmolive in a report on Monday, July 31st. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft upped their target price on shares of Colgate-Palmolive from $88.00 to $91.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Monday, July 31st. Finally, HSBC began coverage on shares of Colgate-Palmolive in a report on Friday, September 22nd. They set a buy rating and a $84.00 target price on the stock. Five analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $85.23. View Our Latest Report on CL Insider Buying and Selling at Colgate-Palmolive In other news, CEO Noel R. Wallace sold 48,627 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, September 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $73.37, for a total transaction of $3,567,762.99. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 246,969 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $18,120,115.53. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In related news, VP Gregory Malcolm sold 10,493 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, August 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $73.90, for a total value of $775,432.70. Following the transaction, the vice president now owns 7,852 shares of the companys stock, valued at $580,262.80. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, CEO Noel R. Wallace sold 48,627 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, September 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $73.37, for a total transaction of $3,567,762.99. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 246,969 shares in the company, valued at approximately $18,120,115.53. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders sold 105,501 shares of company stock worth $7,838,332. 0.34% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Colgate-Palmolive Company Profile (Free Report) Colgate-Palmolive Company, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells consumer products worldwide. The company operates through two segments, Oral, Personal and Home Care; and Pet Nutrition. The Oral, Personal and Home Care segment offers toothpaste, toothbrushes, mouthwash, bar and liquid hand soaps, shower gels, shampoos, conditioners, deodorants and antiperspirants, skin health products, dishwashing detergents, fabric conditioners, household cleaners, and other related items. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CL? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Colgate-Palmolive (NYSE:CL Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Colgate-Palmolive Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Colgate-Palmolive and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Leavell Investment Management Inc. cut its holdings in Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT Free Report) by 3.2% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 36,377 shares of the healthcare product makers stock after selling 1,210 shares during the quarter. Leavell Investment Management Inc.s holdings in Abbott Laboratories were worth $3,965,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Scissortail Wealth Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Abbott Laboratories during the 1st quarter valued at $1,475,747,000. Aspire Private Capital LLC bought a new position in shares of Abbott Laboratories during the 1st quarter valued at $16,271,874,000. Graham Capital Wealth Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Abbott Laboratories during the 1st quarter valued at $244,037,000. Altshuler Shaham Ltd bought a new position in shares of Abbott Laboratories during the 4th quarter valued at $28,000. Finally, Financial Gravity Asset Management Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 134.5% during the 1st quarter. Financial Gravity Asset Management Inc. now owns 258 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $316,000 after buying an additional 148 shares during the period. 73.70% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Abbott Laboratories alerts: Abbott Laboratories Price Performance Shares of Abbott Laboratories stock traded up $2.04 during trading on Thursday, reaching $97.57. 2,442,071 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 4,869,266. The company has a market capitalization of $169.32 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 32.61, a P/E/G ratio of 4.30 and a beta of 0.68. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $104.77 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $105.09. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.39, a current ratio of 1.64 and a quick ratio of 1.16. Abbott Laboratories has a 52-week low of $93.25 and a 52-week high of $115.83. Abbott Laboratories Dividend Announcement Abbott Laboratories ( NYSE:ABT Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 20th. The healthcare product maker reported $1.08 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.05 by $0.03. The firm had revenue of $9.98 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $9.71 billion. Abbott Laboratories had a return on equity of 20.50% and a net margin of 12.83%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 11.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $1.43 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts expect that Abbott Laboratories will post 4.4 EPS for the current year. The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 15th. Investors of record on Friday, October 13th will be issued a $0.51 dividend. This represents a $2.04 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.09%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, October 12th. Abbott Laboratoriess payout ratio is 69.62%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several equities research analysts have recently commented on ABT shares. StockNews.com started coverage on Abbott Laboratories in a research note on Thursday, August 17th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Morgan Stanley restated an equal weight rating and issued a $112.00 price objective on shares of Abbott Laboratories in a research note on Friday, July 21st. Mizuho upped their price objective on Abbott Laboratories from $110.00 to $115.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, July 21st. Barclays upped their price objective on Abbott Laboratories from $127.00 to $132.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, July 24th. Finally, Wolfe Research upgraded Abbott Laboratories from an underperform rating to a peer perform rating in a research note on Friday, July 21st. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eleven have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $120.82. Get Our Latest Stock Report on ABT Insider Activity at Abbott Laboratories In related news, Director Daniel J. Starks sold 50,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, July 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $113.76, for a total value of $5,688,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 6,775,316 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $770,759,948.16. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. In related news, Director Daniel J. Starks sold 50,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, July 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $113.76, for a total value of $5,688,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 6,775,316 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $770,759,948.16. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, EVP Andrea F. Wainer sold 10,400 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, August 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $105.03, for a total transaction of $1,092,312.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 65,027 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $6,829,785.81. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 1.10% of the stock is owned by insiders. Abbott Laboratories Profile (Free Report) Abbott Laboratories, together with its subsidiaries, discovers, develops, manufactures, and sells health care products worldwide. It operates in four segments: Established Pharmaceutical Products, Diagnostic Products, Nutritional Products, and Medical Devices. The Established Pharmaceutical Products segment provides generic pharmaceuticals for the treatment of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, irritable bowel syndrome or biliary spasm, intrahepatic cholestasis or depressive symptoms, gynecological disorder, hormone replacement therapy, dyslipidemia, hypertension, hypothyroidism, Meniere's disease and vestibular vertigo, pain, fever, inflammation, and migraine, as well as provides anti-infective clarithromycin, influenza vaccine, and products to regulate physiological rhythm of the colon. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ABT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Abbott Laboratories Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Abbott Laboratories and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Lyons Bancorp Inc. (OTCMKTS:LYBC Get Free Report)s share price traded down 0.5% on Wednesday . The stock traded as low as $46.75 and last traded at $46.75. 1,650 shares were traded during mid-day trading, an increase of 277% from the average session volume of 438 shares. The stock had previously closed at $47.00. Lyons Bancorp Trading Down 0.5 % The companys fifty day moving average price is $48.71 and its 200 day moving average price is $50.23. Get Lyons Bancorp alerts: Lyons Bancorp Announces Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, October 13th. Stockholders of record on Friday, September 29th will be issued a dividend of $0.35 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, September 28th. This represents a $1.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.99%. About Lyons Bancorp Lyons Bancorp Inc operates as a financial holding company for The Lyons National Bank that provides a range of commercial and retail banking services to individual and small business customers. It offers checking accounts, savings accounts, individual retirement accounts, and certificates of deposit; commercial real estate, agricultural real estate, commercial and agricultural, and consumer instalment loans; and residential real estate loans, such as classes for 1-4 family and home equity loans, as well as consumer loans comprising recreational, auto, personal, personal line of credit, and home improvement loans; financial services, including retirement strategy, investment management, education savings, life insurance, long-term care insurance, and employer and employee benefit services. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Lyons Bancorp Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Lyons Bancorp and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Jarislowsky Fraser Ltd reduced its position in Manulife Financial Co. (NYSE:MFC Free Report) (TSE:MFC) by 5.6% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 22,055,654 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 1,320,641 shares during the quarter. Manulife Financial comprises about 2.5% of Jarislowsky Fraser Ltds holdings, making the stock its 13th largest position. Jarislowsky Fraser Ltd owned approximately 1.20% of Manulife Financial worth $417,361,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of MFC. Sanctuary Wealth Management L.L.C. acquired a new position in Manulife Financial in the 4th quarter valued at $27,000. Arlington Partners LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Manulife Financial during the 1st quarter worth $29,000. Clearstead Advisors LLC boosted its position in shares of Manulife Financial by 249.3% during the 1st quarter. Clearstead Advisors LLC now owns 1,638 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $30,000 after purchasing an additional 1,169 shares in the last quarter. Ridgewood Investments LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Manulife Financial during the 1st quarter worth $33,000. Finally, GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Manulife Financial during the 1st quarter worth $35,000. 45.02% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Manulife Financial alerts: Manulife Financial Stock Performance MFC stock traded up $0.20 during trading on Thursday, hitting $18.43. The stock had a trading volume of 1,262,378 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,295,434. The companys 50 day moving average price is $18.94 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $18.90. Manulife Financial Co. has a 1-year low of $14.92 and a 1-year high of $20.40. The stock has a market cap of $33.60 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 8.56, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.76 and a beta of 1.12. Manulife Financial Increases Dividend Manulife Financial ( NYSE:MFC Get Free Report ) (TSE:MFC) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, August 9th. The financial services provider reported $0.62 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.60 by $0.02. Manulife Financial had a net margin of 11.87% and a return on equity of 13.53%. The firm had revenue of $9 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.31 billion. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that Manulife Financial Co. will post 2.44 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, September 19th. Investors of record on Wednesday, August 23rd were paid a $0.276 dividend. This is an increase from Manulife Financials previous quarterly dividend of $0.27. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, August 22nd. This represents a $1.10 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.99%. Manulife Financials payout ratio is presently 52.11%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades MFC has been the topic of several recent research reports. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Manulife Financial in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Barclays boosted their price objective on shares of Manulife Financial from $31.00 to $33.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, August 11th. Get Our Latest Stock Report on Manulife Financial About Manulife Financial (Free Report) 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. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Manulife Financial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Manulife Financial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mueller Water Products (NYSE:MWA Get Free Report) was downgraded by equities research analysts at StockNews.com from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report issued on Wednesday. Separately, Northcoast Research cut Mueller Water Products from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, August 4th. Six analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Mueller Water Products presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $13.67. Get Mueller Water Products alerts: Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Mueller Water Products Mueller Water Products Stock Up 1.9 % Shares of NYSE:MWA traded up $0.24 on Wednesday, reaching $12.66. The company had a trading volume of 585,759 shares, compared to its average volume of 909,038. Mueller Water Products has a twelve month low of $10.06 and a twelve month high of $16.62. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $14.03 and a 200 day moving average price of $14.23. The stock has a market capitalization of $1.98 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.84, a P/E/G ratio of 1.90 and a beta of 1.34. The company has a quick ratio of 1.89, a current ratio of 3.46 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.63. Mueller Water Products (NYSE:MWA Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, August 3rd. The industrial products company reported $0.18 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.20 by ($0.02). Mueller Water Products had a return on equity of 12.22% and a net margin of 5.77%. The company had revenue of $326.60 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $351.74 million. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $0.19 EPS. Mueller Water Productss quarterly revenue was down 2.0% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities analysts expect that Mueller Water Products will post 0.55 EPS for the current year. Insider Buying and Selling at Mueller Water Products In other Mueller Water Products news, Director Michael T. Tokarz sold 13,269 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $13.08, for a total value of $173,558.52. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 392,502 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,133,926.16. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. In other news, Director Michael T. Tokarz sold 13,269 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $13.08, for a total value of $173,558.52. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 392,502 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,133,926.16. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, SVP Kenji Takeuchi sold 1,855 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, August 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $14.16, for a total value of $26,266.80. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now owns 28,209 shares in the company, valued at $399,439.44. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders own 1.70% of the companys stock. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Mueller Water Products A number of large investors have recently bought and sold shares of MWA. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. grew its position in Mueller Water Products by 580.8% during the 1st quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 14,909 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $192,000 after acquiring an additional 12,719 shares during the last quarter. Bank of Montreal Can boosted its position in Mueller Water Products by 65.6% in the 1st quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 28,439 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $372,000 after buying an additional 11,270 shares during the last quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC boosted its position in Mueller Water Products by 38.6% in the 1st quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 75,681 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $978,000 after buying an additional 21,068 shares during the last quarter. APG Asset Management N.V. bought a new position in Mueller Water Products in the 1st quarter valued at $2,116,000. Finally, Sei Investments Co. boosted its position in Mueller Water Products by 56.8% in the 1st quarter. Sei Investments Co. now owns 76,178 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $984,000 after buying an additional 27,589 shares during the last quarter. About Mueller Water Products (Get Free Report) Mueller Water Products, Inc manufactures and markets products and services for the transmission, distribution, and measurement of water used by municipalities, and the residential and non-residential construction industries in the United States, Israel, and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Water Flow Solutions and Water Management Solutions. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Mueller Water Products Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Mueller Water Products and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Olympus Co. (OTCMKTS:OCPNY Get Free Report)s stock price passed above its fifty day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a fifty day moving average of $18.00 and traded as high as $18.00. Olympus shares last traded at $18.00, with a volume of 400 shares trading hands. Olympus Trading Down 1.4 % The company has a market capitalization of $23.15 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 21.95, a P/E/G ratio of 1.07 and a beta of 0.70. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $18.00 and a 200-day moving average price of $18.00. The company has a quick ratio of 1.48, a current ratio of 1.99 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.59. About Olympus (Get Free Report) Olympus Corp. engages in the manufacture and sale of precision machineries and instruments. It operates through the following segments: Medical, Scientific Solutions, Imaging, and Others. The Medical segment covers digestive, surgical, and ultrasonic endoscopy as well as endoscopic treatment tools. The Scientific Solutions segment manufactures and sells biological and industrial microscopes, industrial endoscopes, and non-destructive testing equipment. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Olympus Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Olympus and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Regent Peak Wealth Advisors LLC cut its holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY Free Report) by 2.4% in the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The institutional investor owned 33,780 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 825 shares during the period. Regent Peak Wealth Advisors LLCs holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb were worth $2,160,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Norges Bank bought a new position in Bristol-Myers Squibb in the 4th quarter valued at $1,873,696,000. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC raised its position in Bristol-Myers Squibb by 114,228.7% in the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 21,469,785 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $1,544,751,000 after purchasing an additional 21,451,006 shares during the period. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. raised its position in Bristol-Myers Squibb by 193.4% in the 1st quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 7,214,000 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $186,351,000 after purchasing an additional 4,755,058 shares during the period. Boston Partners increased its position in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 31.1% in the first quarter. Boston Partners now owns 18,080,568 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,252,480,000 after acquiring an additional 4,286,479 shares during the period. Finally, Pacer Advisors Inc. increased its position in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 2,077.2% in the first quarter. Pacer Advisors Inc. now owns 4,049,072 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $280,641,000 after acquiring an additional 3,863,095 shares during the period. 74.98% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Bristol-Myers Squibb alerts: Insider Activity at Bristol-Myers Squibb In other news, EVP Robert M. Plenge sold 732 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, August 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $61.14, for a total transaction of $44,754.48. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 6,584 shares in the company, valued at approximately $402,545.76. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In related news, EVP Ann Powell sold 17,986 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, August 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $61.25, for a total transaction of $1,101,642.50. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 27,868 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,706,915. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, EVP Robert M. Plenge sold 732 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $61.14, for a total value of $44,754.48. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 6,584 shares in the company, valued at $402,545.76. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.09% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades BMY has been the topic of several research analyst reports. Credit Suisse Group reduced their price target on shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb from $72.00 to $66.00 in a research report on Wednesday, July 12th. Atlantic Securities reduced their target price on shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb from $90.00 to $85.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Friday, July 28th. Cantor Fitzgerald reaffirmed an overweight rating and set a $75.00 target price on shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb in a report on Friday, September 15th. StockNews.com cut shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research note on Friday, September 1st. Finally, Morgan Stanley restated an underweight rating and set a $59.00 target price on shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb in a research report on Wednesday, July 19th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have issued a hold rating and seven have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Bristol-Myers Squibb presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $69.64. Read Our Latest Research Report on Bristol-Myers Squibb Bristol-Myers Squibb Stock Up 0.6 % BMY stock traded up $0.37 during midday trading on Thursday, reaching $58.26. 2,031,658 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 8,970,581. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.08, a quick ratio of 1.28 and a current ratio of 1.39. The company has a market cap of $121.71 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.40, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.56 and a beta of 0.42. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $61.06 and its 200 day simple moving average is $64.62. Bristol-Myers Squibb has a 1-year low of $57.61 and a 1-year high of $81.43. Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, July 27th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.75 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.99 by ($0.24). The company had revenue of $11.23 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $11.81 billion. Bristol-Myers Squibb had a return on equity of 50.51% and a net margin of 17.62%. Bristol-Myers Squibbs revenue for the quarter was down 5.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $1.93 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts forecast that Bristol-Myers Squibb will post 7.43 earnings per share for the current year. Bristol-Myers Squibb Dividend Announcement The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 1st. Investors of record on Friday, October 6th will be paid a $0.57 dividend. This represents a $2.28 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.91%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, October 5th. Bristol-Myers Squibbs payout ratio is 60.64%. About Bristol-Myers Squibb (Free Report) Bristol-Myers Squibb Company discovers, develops, licenses, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers products for hematology, oncology, cardiovascular, immunology, fibrotic, and neuroscience diseases. The company's products include Eliquis, an oral inhibitor for reduction in risk of stroke/systemic embolism in NVAF, and for the treatment of DVT/PE; Opdivo for anti-cancer indications; Pomalyst/Imnovid indicated for patients with multiple myeloma; Orencia for adult patients with active RA and psoriatic arthritis; and Sprycel for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BMY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Bristol-Myers Squibb Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bristol-Myers Squibb and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Rightmove plc (OTCMKTS:RTMVY Get Free Report) saw a significant decline in short interest in the month of September. As of September 15th, there was short interest totalling 16,600 shares, a decline of 71.8% from the August 31st total of 58,800 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 68,000 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.2 days. Analysts Set New Price Targets RTMVY has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price objective on Rightmove from GBX 530 ($6.47) to GBX 573 ($7.00) in a research note on Monday, July 31st. Berenberg Bank lifted their price objective on Rightmove from GBX 540 ($6.59) to GBX 605 ($7.39) in a research note on Thursday, August 3rd. Get Rightmove alerts: Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on Rightmove Rightmove Price Performance Rightmove Cuts Dividend RTMVY traded down $0.19 during trading on Wednesday, hitting $13.52. The companys stock had a trading volume of 20,078 shares, compared to its average volume of 46,942. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $14.10 and its 200-day moving average price is $13.78. Rightmove has a twelve month low of $9.73 and a twelve month high of $15.20. The business also recently disclosed a dividend, which will be paid on Monday, November 13th. Stockholders of record on Friday, September 29th will be issued a dividend of $0.0809 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, September 28th. Rightmove Company Profile (Get Free Report) Rightmove plc, together with its subsidiaries, operates property portals in the United Kingdom and internationally. It operates through Agency, New Homes, and Other segments. The Agency segment provides property resale and letting advertising services on its platforms. It also offers tenant references and rent guarantee insurance services to landlords. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Rightmove Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Rightmove and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Roots Co. (TSE:ROOT Get Free Report) traded down 1.8% on Tuesday . The company traded as low as C$2.75 and last traded at C$2.75. 13,300 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 46% from the average session volume of 9,138 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$2.80. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Separately, BMO Capital Markets cut their price objective on Roots from C$3.50 to C$3.25 in a report on Friday, June 9th. Get Roots alerts: Get Our Latest Research Report on ROOT Roots Price Performance Roots Company Profile The company has a quick ratio of 0.25, a current ratio of 1.15 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 75.86. The stock has a market cap of C$108.54 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 67.50, a PEG ratio of -0.54 and a beta of 2.91. The businesss fifty day moving average is C$2.94 and its two-hundred day moving average is C$3.00. (Get Free Report) Roots Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, designs, markets, and sells apparel, leather goods, footwear, and accessories under the Roots brand in Canada and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Direct-To-Consumer, and Partners and Other. The Direct-to-Consumer segment sells products through the company's corporate retail stores and ecommerce. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Roots Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Roots and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund, Inc. (NYSE:MQY Get Free Report) was the target of a large decline in short interest in September. As of September 15th, there was short interest totalling 14,100 shares, a decline of 36.5% from the August 31st total of 22,200 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 171,900 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.1 days. Hedge Funds Weigh In On BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of MQY. Raymond James & Associates lifted its position in BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund by 6.2% during the 1st quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 133,511 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,841,000 after acquiring an additional 7,852 shares in the last quarter. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC raised its position in shares of BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund by 34.0% in the 1st quarter. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC now owns 20,281 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $280,000 after purchasing an additional 5,142 shares in the last quarter. Bank of Montreal Can acquired a new position in shares of BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $353,000. Worth Asset Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $171,000. Finally, Invesco Ltd. raised its position in shares of BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund by 26.8% in the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 74,963 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,034,000 after purchasing an additional 15,860 shares in the last quarter. 21.94% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund alerts: BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund Stock Performance Shares of NYSE MQY traded down $0.03 during midday trading on Thursday, hitting $10.24. The stock had a trading volume of 265,030 shares, compared to its average volume of 154,970. BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund has a 1-year low of $10.19 and a 1-year high of $12.53. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $11.19 and a 200 day moving average price of $11.43. BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund Announces Dividend About BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund The business also recently declared a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, October 2nd. Investors of record on Friday, September 15th will be given a dividend of $0.0435 per share. This represents a $0.52 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.10%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, September 14th. (Get Free Report) BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund, Inc is a close ended fixed income mutual fund launched by BlackRock, Inc It is managed by BlackRock Advisors, LLC. The fund invests in fixed income markets. It invests in long-term municipal obligations the interest on which is exempt from federal income taxes. The fund also invests in short-term securities. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Three people, put on the international wanted list by Russia, have been detained at the airport in Baku, the Prosecutor General's Office of Azerbaijan told Trend. In accordance with the requirements of the Convention on Legal Assistance and Legal Relations in Civil, Family and Criminal Cases adopted on October 7, 2002, the applications of the Prosecutor General's Office of the Russian Federation for the extradition of citizens of the Russian Federation Mustafa Bayramov, Viktor Yelizarov and Mikhail Kozlov for criminal prosecution were granted. Mustafa Bayramov and Mikhail Kozlov were charged under part 4 of Article 159 (fraud on a particularly large scale committed by an organized group), and Viktor Yelizarov - under part 3 of Article 135 (immoral acts against minors) of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. Due to the existence of grounds for suspicion of committing criminal acts by them, the authorities of the Russian Federation decided to bring them as defendants under the above articles. However, due to the fact that they escaped from the investigation, they were put on the wanted list. During border control at the Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Azerbaijan, these people were detained. On September 28, accompanied by a special convoy of the Penitentiary Service of the Ministry of Justice of Azerbaijan, they were handed over to the Russian authorities. British American Tobacco p.l.c. (OTCMKTS:BTAFF Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large decrease in short interest during the month of September. As of September 15th, there was short interest totalling 72,700 shares, a decrease of 75.2% from the August 31st total of 293,000 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 11,600 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 6.3 days. British American Tobacco Stock Down 2.6 % Shares of OTCMKTS:BTAFF traded down $0.84 during trading on Thursday, reaching $31.76. The stock had a trading volume of 10,049 shares, compared to its average volume of 6,261. British American Tobacco has a one year low of $31.50 and a one year high of $43.21. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $33.12 and its 200 day simple moving average is $34.06. Get British American Tobacco alerts: About British American Tobacco (Get Free Report) Featured Stories British American Tobacco p.l.c. engages in the provision of tobacco and nicotine products to consumers worldwide. It offers vapour, tobacco heating, and modern oral nicotine products; combustible cigarettes; and traditional oral products, such as snus and moist snuff. The company offers its products under the Vuse, glo, Velo, Grizzly, Kodiak, Dunhill, Kent, Lucky Strike, Pall Mall, Rothmans, Camel, Natural American Spirit, Newport, Vogue, Viceroy, Kool, Peter Stuyvesant, Craven A, State Express 555 and Shuang Xi brands. Receive News & Ratings for British American Tobacco Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for British American Tobacco and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Nordea Bank Abp (OTCMKTS:NRDBY Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large decrease in short interest in September. As of September 15th, there was short interest totalling 29,300 shares, a decrease of 69.1% from the August 31st total of 94,800 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 124,800 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.2 days. Nordea Bank Abp Stock Performance Shares of OTCMKTS:NRDBY traded up $0.02 on Wednesday, reaching $10.88. 79,244 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 104,848. The company has a fifty day moving average of $11.11 and a 200-day moving average of $10.90. Nordea Bank Abp has a twelve month low of $8.35 and a twelve month high of $12.92. The company has a market capitalization of $38.84 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 8.04, a PEG ratio of 0.78 and a beta of 1.08. The company has a current ratio of 1.38, a quick ratio of 1.38 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.72. Get Nordea Bank Abp alerts: Nordea Bank Abp (OTCMKTS:NRDBY Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Monday, July 17th. The company reported $0.40 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. The company had revenue of $3.22 billion for the quarter. Nordea Bank Abp had a return on equity of 15.74% and a net margin of 24.69%. On average, research analysts predict that Nordea Bank Abp will post 1.43 EPS for the current fiscal year. Nordea Bank Abp Company Profile Nordea Bank Abp offers banking products and services in Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark, and internationally. It operates through Personal Banking, Business Banking, Large Corporates and Institutions, and Asset and Wealth Management segments. The Personal Banking segment provides various financial services to household customers through mobile banking, over the phone, online meetings, and branch offices. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Nordea Bank Abp Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Nordea Bank Abp and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente, S.A. (OTCMKTS:SEYMF Get Free Report) saw a large growth in short interest during the month of September. As of September 15th, there was short interest totalling 185,600 shares, a growth of 198.9% from the August 31st total of 62,100 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 0 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently days. Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente Stock Performance SEYMF remained flat at $17.00 during midday trading on Wednesday. 42 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,350. The companys fifty day moving average price is $17.00 and its 200-day moving average price is $17.48. Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente has a one year low of $15.25 and a one year high of $21.68. Get Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of research firms recently commented on SEYMF. Citigroup raised shares of Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente from a sell rating to a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, August 29th. Royal Bank of Canada upgraded shares of Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, June 12th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $20.00. About Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente (Get Free Report) Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente, SA, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the generation of solar photovoltaic energy. It owns, manages, and operates a pipeline of approximately 14,200 MW of photovoltaic plants in Spain, Italy, Portugal, Uruguay, and Greece. The company was incorporated in 2002 and is based in Madrid, Spain. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. The Siam Cement Public Company Limited (OTCMKTS:SCVPF Get Free Report) saw a significant growth in short interest in September. As of September 15th, there was short interest totalling 12,100 shares, a growth of 2,320.0% from the August 31st total of 500 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 100 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 121.0 days. Siam Cement Public Stock Performance OTCMKTS SCVPF remained flat at $9.50 during trading hours on Wednesday. Siam Cement Public has a fifty-two week low of $8.87 and a fifty-two week high of $10.61. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $9.50 and its 200 day simple moving average is $9.28. Get Siam Cement Public alerts: About Siam Cement Public (Get Free Report) Featured Articles The Siam Cement Public Co Ltd. is an investment holding company, which engages in the business of industrial supplies and construction industries. It operates through the following segments: SCG Cement-Building Materials, SCG Chemicals, SCG Packaging, and Other. The SCG Cement-Building Materials segment manufactures and sells of grey cement, ready-mixed concrete, white cement, dry mortar, roof tiles, concrete paving blocks, ceramic tiles, sanitary wares, and sanitary fittings; and distribution of cement, building and decorative products, as well as importing fuel products, waste paper, and scrap iron. Receive News & Ratings for Siam Cement Public Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Siam Cement Public and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A. (NYSE:SQM Get Free Report) traded up 4% during mid-day trading on Thursday . The company traded as high as $57.79 and last traded at $57.03. 517,487 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 68% from the average session volume of 1,611,753 shares. The stock had previously closed at $54.84. Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of analysts have issued reports on the stock. Scotiabank reduced their price target on shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile from $86.00 to $85.00 and set a sector perform rating on the stock in a report on Monday, August 21st. Citigroup assumed coverage on shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile in a report on Tuesday, September 12th. They issued a buy rating and a $85.00 price target on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their price target on shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile from $97.00 to $93.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Friday, July 21st. HSBC reduced their price target on shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile from $134.00 to $90.50 in a report on Thursday, July 6th. Finally, Loop Capital reduced their price target on shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile from $83.00 to $71.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a report on Monday, August 28th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have given a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $82.61. Get Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile alerts: Check Out Our Latest Report on SQM Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile Stock Up 6.0 % The firm has a market capitalization of $16.61 billion, a PE ratio of 4.60, a PEG ratio of 0.34 and a beta of 1.02. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $65.07 and its 200 day simple moving average is $70.48. The company has a current ratio of 2.39, a quick ratio of 1.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.51. Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile (NYSE:SQM Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, August 16th. The basic materials company reported $2.03 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.62 by ($0.59). Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile had a return on equity of 71.64% and a net margin of 34.41%. The firm had revenue of $2.05 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.24 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $3.01 earnings per share. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A. will post 11.06 earnings per share for the current year. Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile Cuts Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, July 20th. Investors of record on Friday, January 1st were paid a dividend of $0.5119 per share. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, July 13th. This represents a $2.05 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.52%. Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chiles dividend payout ratio is presently 16.03%. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile Large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. D.A. Davidson & CO. purchased a new stake in Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile in the 1st quarter valued at about $626,000. B. Metzler seel. Sohn & Co. AG boosted its position in Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile by 54.8% in the 1st quarter. B. Metzler seel. Sohn & Co. AG now owns 26,202 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $2,124,000 after buying an additional 9,280 shares during the period. Ridgewood Investments LLC purchased a new stake in Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile in the 1st quarter valued at about $48,000. Accel Wealth Management purchased a new stake in Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile in the 1st quarter valued at about $32,000. Finally, Penserra Capital Management LLC boosted its position in Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile by 266.7% in the 1st quarter. Penserra Capital Management LLC now owns 6,006 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $486,000 after buying an additional 4,368 shares during the period. 14.94% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. About Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile (Get Free Report) Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile SA produces and distributes specialty plant nutrients, iodine derivatives, lithium derivatives, potassium chloride and sulfate, industrial chemicals, and other products and services. The company offers specialty plant nutrients, including potassium nitrate, sodium nitrate, sodium potassium nitrate, specialty blends, and other specialty fertilizers. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. State Bank of India (OTCMKTS:SBKFF Get Free Report) was the recipient of a significant growth in short interest during the month of September. As of September 15th, there was short interest totalling 45,100 shares, a growth of 173.3% from the August 31st total of 16,500 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 0 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently days. State Bank of India Stock Performance SBKFF stock remained flat at $72.50 during midday trading on Wednesday. State Bank of India has a 12 month low of $63.40 and a 12 month high of $72.50. The businesss fifty day moving average is $72.50 and its 200 day moving average is $68.69. Get State Bank of India alerts: State Bank of India Company Profile (Get Free Report) Featured Articles State Bank of India provides banking products and services to individuals, commercial enterprises, corporates, public bodies, and institutional customers in India and internationally. The company operates through Treasury, Corporate/Wholesale Banking, Retail Banking, Insurance Business, and Other Banking Business segments. Receive News & Ratings for State Bank of India Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for State Bank of India and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Stellar AfricaGold Inc. (OTCMKTS:STLXF Get Free Report) crossed below its 200-day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of $0.02 and traded as low as $0.01. Stellar AfricaGold shares last traded at $0.01, with a volume of 650 shares. Stellar AfricaGold Stock Performance The stocks fifty day moving average price is $0.02 and its 200-day moving average price is $0.02. About Stellar AfricaGold (Get Free Report) Stellar AfricaGold Inc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the acquisition, exploration, and evaluation of mineral properties in West Africa and Canada. The company primarily explores for gold deposits. It holds interest in the Lullwitz-Kaepelli gold property located in Lacoste and De Sales township in the Charlevoix Area of Quebec; the Birimian Geology, Priko, and Zenoula permits situated in Cote d'Ivoire; the Tichka Est gold project located in the Atlas region of Morocco; and the Namarana gold project situated in region of Koulikoro. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Stellar AfricaGold Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Stellar AfricaGold and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of TransAlta Co. (TSE:TA Get Free Report) (NYSE:TAC) crossed below its two hundred day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a two hundred day moving average of C$12.64 and traded as low as C$12.12. TransAlta shares last traded at C$12.54, with a volume of 1,357,912 shares trading hands. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of research firms have recently commented on TA. Bank of America lifted their price objective on TransAlta from C$13.00 to C$14.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 9th. ATB Capital lifted their price target on TransAlta from C$18.00 to C$19.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 8th. National Bankshares boosted their target price on shares of TransAlta from C$14.00 to C$15.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 8th. Industrial Alliance Securities increased their price target on shares of TransAlta from C$17.00 to C$17.50 and gave the company a strong-buy rating in a report on Tuesday, August 8th. Finally, CIBC upped their price target on TransAlta from C$17.50 to C$18.50 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, August 8th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, seven have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus target price of C$17.05. Get TransAlta alerts: Read Our Latest Analysis on TransAlta TransAlta Stock Down 1.1 % The stock has a market capitalization of C$3.12 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.47, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of -0.07 and a beta of 1.07. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of C$13.14 and a 200-day simple moving average of C$12.64. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 190.63, a current ratio of 1.66 and a quick ratio of 0.62. TransAlta (TSE:TA Get Free Report) (NYSE:TAC) last posted its earnings results on Friday, August 4th. The company reported C$0.23 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of C$0.04 by C$0.19. TransAlta had a net margin of 8.64% and a return on equity of 18.75%. The business had revenue of C$625.00 million for the quarter. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that TransAlta Co. will post 0.5698272 EPS for the current fiscal year. TransAlta Dividend Announcement The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Sunday, October 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, September 1st will be issued a dividend of $0.055 per share. This represents a $0.22 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.86%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, August 31st. TransAltas payout ratio is 22.92%. About TransAlta (Get Free Report) TransAlta Corporation engages in the development, production, and sale of electric energy. It operates through Hydro, Wind and Solar, Gas, Energy Transition, and Energy Marketing segments. The Hydro segment has a net ownership interest of approximately 922 megawatts (MW) of owned hydro electrical-generating capacity located in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario. See Also Receive News & Ratings for TransAlta Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for TransAlta and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Virgin Money UK PLC (OTCMKTS:CBBYF Get Free Report) saw a significant decline in short interest in the month of September. As of September 15th, there was short interest totalling 1,957,600 shares, a decline of 51.3% from the August 31st total of 4,016,100 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 0 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently days. Virgin Money UK Price Performance OTCMKTS:CBBYF remained flat at $2.40 during mid-day trading on Thursday. Virgin Money UK has a 1 year low of $2.40 and a 1 year high of $2.40. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $2.40 and a two-hundred day moving average of $2.40. Get Virgin Money UK alerts: Virgin Money UK Company Profile (Get Free Report) Featured Stories Virgin Money UK PLC provides banking products and services for consumers, and small and medium sized businesses under the Clydesdale Bank, Yorkshire Bank, and Virgin Money brands in the United Kingdom. The company offers savings and current accounts, mortgages, credit cards, and home loans; business loans, overdraft facilities, treasury solutions, and corporate and structured finance; asset and invoice finance services; risk management; international trade services; and home, car, and life and critical illness insurance products. Receive News & Ratings for Virgin Money UK Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Virgin Money UK and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund (NYSEARCA:DOL Get Free Report) crossed below its two hundred day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a two hundred day moving average of $47.08 and traded as low as $45.47. WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund shares last traded at $45.53, with a volume of 55,705 shares. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of analysts have recently commented on the company. Credit Suisse Group reiterated a neutral rating and set a $85.00 target price on shares of WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund in a research report on Thursday, September 14th. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their target price on WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund from $101.00 to $105.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, September 14th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets lifted their target price on WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund from $95.00 to $105.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, September 14th. Get WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund alerts: View Our Latest Stock Report on WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund Trading Up 1.1 % Institutional Investors Weigh In On WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $46.91 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $47.07. The company has a market cap of $492.89 million, a PE ratio of 9.96 and a beta of 0.78. Several institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of DOL. Resurgent Financial Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund during the 4th quarter worth approximately $36,000. Global Retirement Partners LLC lifted its stake in WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund by 2,482.0% in the 1st quarter. Global Retirement Partners LLC now owns 1,291 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $61,000 after buying an additional 1,241 shares in the last quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. lifted its stake in WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund by 9.8% in the 1st quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 3,357 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $148,000 after buying an additional 301 shares in the last quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. lifted its stake in WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund by 206.9% in the 4th quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 3,440 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $151,000 after buying an additional 2,319 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Mercer Global Advisors Inc. ADV purchased a new stake in WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $213,000. WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund Company Profile (Get Free Report) WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund (the Fund) seeks investment results that closely correspond to the price and yield performance of the WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Index (the Index). The Index is a fundamentally weighted index that measures the performance of the large-capitalization segment of the dividend-paying market in the industrialized world outside the United States and Canada. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for WisdomTree International LargeCap Dividend Fund and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Azerbaijan's Ministry of Defense has updated information about the amount of military equipment, weapons, and ammunition seized after the completion of local anti-terror activities conducted in Azerbaijan's Karabakh region as of 18:00 (GMT +4) on September 28, Trend reports. The updated list includes: Weapons 1. Small arms 1151 2. Grenade launchers 84 3. Guns and howitzers 16 4. Mortars 39 5. Antitank weapons - 22 6. Air defense 132 Equipment 1. Armored vehicles 18 2. Automotive equipment 120 3. Trailers 21 4. Auxiliary equipment 5 Ammunition 1. Rockets 984 2. Cannon and howitzer shells 2722 3. Antiaircraft cannon shells - 2627 4. Mortar shells 6653 5. Grenades 2266 6. Hand grenades 1368 7. Cartridges 652842 8. Other ammunition 2132 Devices 1. Optical devices 216 2. Other devices - 31 Supplies 1. Means of individual supply 677 2. Installations of various weapons - 8 3. Other means of supply 2076 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 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. Meghna Mittal MEGHNA MITTAL is Deputy News Editor at Moneycontrol. Meghna has experience across television, print, online and wire media. She has been covering the Indian economy, monetary and fiscal policies, Finance and Trade ministries. She tweets at @Meghnamittal23 Contact: meghna.mittal@nw18.com 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 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 today's edition of Moneycontrol Pro Panorama: Sheikh Hasina faces toughest challenge yet, no festive cheer for manufacturers, a... After a slow start due to bad market conditions, the number of IPOs this year has jumped sharply in the last couple of months and so have the returns from public issues. Top gaining IPO stocks of 2023 Winner: With nine months of 2023 behind us, Cyient DLM, a "design-led manufacturing" company, has performed exceptionally well. The stock is now up 156 percent over its issue price of Rs 265, building on listing gains of 51 percent. What has also favoured the company... 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 BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Bulgaria has increased its gas imports from Azerbaijan, Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union, told Trend. In July 2023, Bulgaria imported 77.3 million cubic meters of gas from Azerbaijan, marking a rise from the 74.8 million cubic meters recorded in June. This surge indicates a month-on-month increase of 3.3 percent in natural gas imports from Azerbaijan. Notably, during the first seven months of the year, Azerbaijan exported a total of 536.7 million cubic meters of gas to Bulgaria. While the volume of exports remained robust, the value of these gas exports during July amounted to 23.9 million euros, a slight decline from the 26.6 million euros recorded in June, marking a decrease of 10.2 percent. Bulgaria initiated gas imports from Azerbaijan via the Greece-Bulgaria interconnector (IGB), which commenced operations on October 1, 2022. The IGB has a contractual capacity of 1 billion cubic meters per year, with the potential to expand to 3 billion cubic meters, ultimately upgradable to 5 billion cubic meters annually. Azerbaijan, a crucial gas supplier to Europe, utilizes the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) as part of the Southern Gas Corridor, boasting a capacity of 10 billion cubic meters, expandable to 20 billion cubic meters annually. The Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan reported that the country exported 6.6 billion cubic meters of gas to Europe from January through July 2023. Overall, gas exports for the same period amounted to 13.8 billion cubic meters, reflecting a robust 7 percent increase compared to the same period in 2022. This increase in exports includes contributions from various gas fields, with 7.5 billion cubic meters sourced from the Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli field block, 15.4 billion cubic meters from the Shah Deniz field, 5.1 billion cubic meters produced by the State Oil Company, and 0.1 billion cubic meters from the Absheron field. Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn Souptik Datta Reports real estate, infra and city in Bengaluru. Btw, curiosity never kills the cat. Vishal Bhargava is a real estate enthusiast who views and reviews new projects, when not busy with his newstoon platform Snapnews. The views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication. Christin Mathew Philip is an Assistant editor at moneycontrol.com. Based in Bengaluru, he writes on mobility, infrastructure and start-ups. He is a Ramnath Goenka excellence in journalism awardee. You can find him on Twitter here: twitter.com/ChristinMP_ Sundeep Khanna is a senior journalist and the author of the recently released book 'Cryptostorm: How India became ground zero of a financial revolution'. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication. Dinesh C Sharma is a science journalist and author based in New Delhi. Views are personal, and do not represent the stance of this publication. Amitabh Tiwari Is a former corporate and investment banker-turned political strategist and commentator. Twitter: @politicalbaaba. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication Anjal Prakash is Clinical Associate Professor (Research) at the Bharti Institute of Public Policy at ISB. He contributes to the IPCC reports. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. European Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson delivered a compelling message at the Heat Pump Forum 2023, emphasizing the urgency of transitioning to sustainable heating solutions, Trend reports. Commissioner Simson highlighted the critical role heating plays in the European Union's energy consumption landscape, noting that it currently accounts for approximately 50 percent of all energy consumed. Commissioner Simson's address drew attention to the stark reality that over 70 percent of heating in the EU still relies on fossil fuels, primarily natural gas. She firmly asserted, "This has to change." Simson stressed that the future of household heating cannot hinge on fossil fuel combustion but must pivot toward technologies rooted in renewable energy sources, coupled with efficient district heating and cooling systems. Highlighting heat pumps as a pivotal technology, she declared, "Heat pumps, in particular, are ready to become mainstream heating technology." Simson called for their integration into local, regional, and national heating and cooling plans, underscored by the need for flexibility to adapt to the unique requirements and constraints of buildings, industries, and networks. While acknowledging the changing landscape of the heating sector, with nearly three million new heat pump units installed in 2022, Commissioner Simson insisted, "This is not enough." She underscored the necessity of a clear, long-term vision to engage consumers effectively and called for accelerated deployment of heat pumps, whether as standalone systems or as part of efficient district heating and cooling infrastructure. Commissioner Simson also pointed to ongoing initiatives that pave the way for cleaner heating solutions like heat pumps and the review of ecodesign implementing regulations for space heaters. Notably, one consideration in the review process is establishing an end date for 'stand-alone' fossil boilers. In her closing remarks, Commissioner Simson highlighted the European Union's commitment to fostering clean heating solutions, underlining the imperative to address the pressing challenges of climate change and transition to sustainable energy sources. Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn September 28, 2023 / 10:07 PM IST People have been killed in two shootings Thursday at a university hospital and a nearby home in the Dutch port city of Rotterdam, police said, but they did not immediately announce the number of victims. A man wearing military clothing and carrying a handgun had opened fire in a classroom at the university hospital, wounding one person. Police arrested the 32-year-old man under the hospitals helipad and said that the Rotterdam resident was a suspect in both shootings. No motive was immediately announced for Thursdays shootings. Abbas Ganbay Chairman of the Azerbaijan State Water Resources Agency Zaur Mikailov met with a delegation led by Turkish Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli, Azernews reports. The meeting discussed work on water security priorities, long-term strategic solutions of water deficit, education on efficient water use, effective exchange of experience between Turkiye and Azerbaijan, and other issues. Both sides agreed to expand bilateral relations in this direction in the future. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. World Bank (WB) experts are implementing a joint project with the Information and Communication Technologies Agency titled "Mission to support the implementation of the digital economy in the South Caucasus and technical assistance for high-speed digital connectivity for inclusiveness and competitiveness", Trend reports. The data from the Information and Communication Technologies Agency shows that the project was discussed at a meeting with representatives of the agency and WB experts. At the meeting, the sides discussed the main directions and functional structure of the agency, as well as the knowledge of specialists and issues of their professional development. The World Bank experts expressed their willingness to support the agency to learn from international experience on issues such as general analysis of foreign regulatory authorities, legal and institutional frameworks, organizational structure and governance, regulatory review, human resources, institutional challenges with other agencies, and financial aspects. Following the meeting, it was decided to hold a series of working meetings between the World Bank and agency experts before the end of this year to discuss the second interim results of the preliminary report prepared by the Bank as well as to develop potential options based on common best practices to guide the development of the agency. Moreover, the World Bank supports the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan in the field of digitalization of the whole economy in order to achieve the strategy "Azerbaijan 2030: National Priorities for Socio-Economic Development". But [some of us] were lucky because we got picked up by Stuff immediately and got a better job, so we ended up being able to do journalism that we really, really wanted to do without the constraints and confines of the medium of television. And it's been wonderful. Reporter Andrew Roberto was raised his whole life on Saipan. He graduated from Saipan Southern High School, holds a degree from Northern Marianas College, and a BA in English from the University of Guam. He once worked for KUAM, UNO Magazine, and the Guam Daily Post. Zaldy Dandan is a recipient of the Best Editorial Writer Award of the Society of Professional Journalists, and the CNMI Humanities Award for Outstanding Contributions to Journalism. His four books are available on amazon.com/. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, September 28. President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who arrived on an official visit to Germany, held talks with Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz in a tete-a-tete format, Trend reports. During the negotiations, the parties noted the dynamic development of bilateral relations and confirmed their mutual desire for further comprehensive strengthening of Kazakh-German relations. The leaders of the two countries identified the main areas of cooperation, including agreeing to intensify interaction in trade, economics, investment, transport and logistics, "green energy," and other areas. The President and Chancellor exchanged views on current regional and international issues and also discussed the agenda of the upcoming summit meeting in the "Central Asia-Germany" format. President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev will be on an official visit to Germany on September 2829. In Berlin, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev will also hold talks with Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. The leader of Kazakhstan also plans to take part in the meeting of the heads of state of Central Asia and Germany. In addition, the visit program includes a speech by Tokayev at the international forum Berlin Global Dialogue and a series of meetings with representatives of the German business community. Tuolumne County, CA Three people were arrested after five illegal marijuana grows were raided by state cannabis law enforcement last week in Columbia, Big Hill and Groveland. The searches were carried out on Tuesday (9/19) and Wednesday (9/20) by the California Department of Cannabis Control Law Enforcement Division (CDCC). Five search warrants were served, which resulted in the seizure of 2,277 pounds of cannabis product worth an estimated retail value of $3,771,657. In addition, detectives seized 14 firearms, including 3 assault rifles, and $6,000 in cash, reported CDCC spokesperson David Hafner. These were ongoing investigations by the Unified Cannabis Enforcement Taskforce, an initiative of Governor Gavin Newsom that involves over 20 state agencies using their resources to crack down on and disrupt the illegal cannabis market. Leading the task force are the CDCC and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Hafner also told Clarke Broadcasting, We worked with local law enforcement, who provided us with information on possible illegal marijuana grows in the county. On Tuesday, raids were carried out at two locations in the 19200 block of 2nd Garrotte Ridge Road, near Merrell and Jackass Creek Access roads in the Groveland area. Between the two properties, they seized 3,546 pot plants, estimated at more than $2.91 million. One person was arrested, 50-year-old Hongying Lyu, for misdemeanor cultivating six plus marijuana plants and resisting arrest, after running from the property and being arrested nearby. On Wednesday, two arrests were made after three raids. Around 7 a.m., a search was conducted on a property located on the 10400 block of North Airport Road near Parrotts Ferry Road in Columbia. There, 51 plants with an estimated value of over $212,000 were seized, along with seven guns, the aforementioned three assault rifles, and $6,000 in cash. The residents, 34-year-old Felicha Nicole Baxter and 32-year-old Eric Gonzales-Garcia, were arrested on several felonies, including having six or more marijuana plants, sales, manufacturing a short barrel rifle, manufacturing or selling a large cap-mag, and manufacturing or having an unconventional pistol. They also face misdemeanor charges of child abuse with the potential for great bodily injury or death and having a gun without a serial number. Later that day, two nearby properties in the 22-23000 block of Big Hill Road near Mountain Boy and 5 Mile Creek roads were raided. While no arrests were made, the task force confiscated over 550 pot plants with an estimated worth of more than $430,000 and four guns. Both properties were red-tagged by county code compliance for environmental crimes, but no specifics were given. Regarding any connections between the searches, Hafner stated, There is no connection between the five properties that were raided. These state agencies are participating in the raids: CDCC, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, California Department of Motor Vehicles, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, CHP, California State Parks, and the Department of Tax and Fee Administration. Federal agencies included the U.S. Forest Service and the Federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Also involved were Tuolumne County Code Enforcement and the District Attorneys Office. To report potential illegal cultivation to the CDCC online, click here. Hafner vows, You can go there and report potential illegal cultivation efforts or unlicensed cannabis activity, and we always follow up on those tips. BZ Smith giving a speech at Orange Shirt Day 2022 View Photo There are several events planned the last days of September. The Peaceful Valley Farmers Market is hosting a special Kids Day this Friday at the Market. Activities designed for kids ages 4-12 include veggie bucks to purchase fruits and vegetables, music, face painting, and storytelling there will be a Kids Market area and interactive booths with health, wellness and art. The Peaceful Valley Farmers Market is open each Friday until October 13. St Patricks Parish Hall will be hosting a Save Our Stairs Spaghetti Feed Fundraiser on Friday from 5:30 until 8 p.m. There will also be a silent auction. For tickets and location view the event calendar listing. Friday is the Annual Pumpkin Patch & Harvest Fair at the Angels Camp Farmers Market. The event will also feature the Fabulous Off Brothers from 5 -8 pm at the Angels Camp Museum. The Sonora High School Homecoming Parade will go through downtown Sonora Friday as detailed here. Two yard sales are listed in our Classifieds section here. The Sonora Farmers Market continues Saturday mornings through until October 8th. Tuolumne Park and Recreation is hosting a Bike Day in the Park to spread awareness about the coming Bike Park in Tuolumne. The event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. will be packed with vendors, clubs, organizations, food, smoothies, bounce houses, games, demonstrations and more. Orange Shirt Day is this Saturday, it will be the Mother Lodes 2nd Memorial Ceremony to remember the 200,000 Indigenous Children who were forced into Indian Boarding Schools across the US from the early 1800s until the 1980s. This will take place from 2 until 6 p.m. at Courthouse Park in Sonora. Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) is a free two-day workshop in suicide first aide. Learn to recognize when someone may be at risk and to respond in way that help increase their immediate safety and link them to help. Whether you are a caregiver case-manager, family member, friend or concerned citizen, this workshop can help you apply suicide first aide in many settings. Sign up here. The League of Women Voters of the Mother Lode will register voters for the upcoming 2024 elections from 10am to 2pm on Friday and Saturday in front of the upper Save Mart Store as detailed here. Primary election day in California will be on Tuesday, March 5, 2024. The national election will be held on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. The annual Reagan Dinner will be held on Saturday night at the Tuolumne County Fair Grounds in Sonora. Steve Hilton, the former host of the Steve Hilton Show on the Fox News Channel and U.S. Congressman Tom McClintock will be the featured speaker. Camp Tuolumne Trails (CTT) is hosting its third annual Concerts for a Cause Summer Music Series. This Saturday they will feature Ilya Serov, trumpet player and crooner, joined by Jeff Ryan on saxaphone as detailed here. The performance will be in CTTs 150-seat, wheelchair-accessible outdoor amphitheater set among the pine and oak trees of its 80-acre facility, which borders the Stanislaus National Forest. CTT is a project of the Jerry and Paula Baker Foundation, is a camp for individuals with special medical needs and their families. The camp provides an accommodating environment for healing, respite, education and recreation. The Mario Flores Band will perform this Saturday evening September 30th from 6 until 8:30 at Rocca Park, located on Main Street in downtown Jamestown. This is a part of the Jamestown Promotion Clubs September Music in the Park series. The admission is completely free. You are invited to bring chairs, blankets, picnic items, your dancing shoes and a great attitude. You dont have to be from Summerville High School to support the Bear Grant Program at the Poker Under The Stars Dinner And Games, and you dont have to be an expert at Poker. The adult event starts with a cocktail party at 4 pm where the 2023 Hall of Fame Honorees will be honored, then dinner begins promptly at 5 pm with the Texas Hold Em Poker tournament and Bingo Games at 6 pm. Enjoy the view from our several local webcams here, Railtown 1897 Historic State Park is open, check out the movie times at local theaters, and the weather forecast is here. Tuolumne County Animal Control logo View Photo Jamestown, CA A dog that badly mauled a Jamestown man and managed to run away after being shot twice has been captured by Tuolumne Animal Control officers. The incident happened Thursday around 4:44 a.m. in the area of Golden Dove Lane. As first reported by Clarke Broadcasting, when the deputy arrived, they found a man covered in blood and yelling for help while holding off the dog by its collar. The dog also became aggressive with the deputies, who were forced to shoot the canine twice, and it ran away. Supervising Tuolumne Animal Control Officer Shawn Shimmer updates that the next day, a caller reported seeing the injured dog still in the area and followed it. When animal control officers arrived, they were able to capture it. Animal Control staff immediately took the dog to a veterinarian for an assessment of its injuries, in which it was humanely euthanized due to the severity of its injuries, shared Shimmer. The dog is being tested for rabies, with Shimmer adding, The testing process was initiated after the dog in question was euthanized due to its injuries. Unfortunately, there is no viable way to test a live animal specimen for rabies, as brain matter must be obtained in order to accurately test an animal for the rabies virus. While Shimmer says she cannot disclose the owners name, regarding why the dog attacked, she stated, We are unsure of the motivation behind the attack. Another detail not released by authorities in our original reporting was the breed of the dog. Shimmer now identifies the canine this way: We do not know the exact breed of the dog in question, but it resembles a Pit Bull/Australian Shepherd mix that is white with tan spots or patches; the dog was medium in size. The man suffered severe injuries and was taken to a Modesto hospital for treatment. There is no update on his condition. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, September 28. President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev called on Germany to utilize the potential of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), Trend reports. During his visit to Germany, President Tokayev held negotiations with Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Both sides paid special attention to strengthening cooperation in the transit and transportation sector. Tokayev also urged the German side to participate in the infrastructure development of the Caspian ports of Aktau and Kuryk. The German side confirmed its strong readiness to deepen trade, economic, and investment ties with Kazakhstan. In particular, there is an interest in increasing the volume of oil supplies, diversifying supply chains, and implementing infrastructure projects. Earlier, President Tokayev said that the traffic volume along TITR, or the so-called Middle Corridor, can be increased five times in the medium term. In 2022, the volume of freight transport along the TITR witnessed a 2.5-fold increase, reaching 1.5 million tons. The surge continued in 2023, with freight volume for January through June surging by 77 percent compared to the same period last year, totaling 1.3 million tons. Wendy Pullins' Jeep found on its side View Photo Mariposa County, CA A case involving a woman who went missing in Mariposa County in June of last year and whose Jeep was found abandoned with blood inside three months later is now being investigated as a homicide. We reported here last week that a $1,000 reward was being offered by investigators in hopes of getting more information on the case, which involves the disappearance of 57-year-old Wendy Pullins of Ahwahnee. She was last seen on June 15, 2022, driving her Jeep Cherokee in Mariposa County. Three days later, a missing person report was filed by family members. The investigation initially began with Search and Rescue responding to locate Wendy as a missing person, report Mariposa County Sheriffs Officials. After a lengthy search, the case was turned over to the investigations unit, and detectives began examining the case. Detectives got a break when Pullins Jeep was located on September 8th of last year, but she was nowhere to be found. At that time, they only disclosed that the Jeep had been located and that it was being sent to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) Forensic Laboratory for further processing, as reported here. The picture released by sheriffs officials shows the Jeep on its side. Detective stated, The vehicle was found down a steep embankment in a remote area of Mariposa County. Forensic analysis done of blood located inside the vehicle was a positive match to Wendys DNA. They added, Because of the amount of time since Wendy was reported missing, the condition of the vehicle, and the blood located inside the vehicle, this investigation is being treated as a homicide. In an effort to identify potential suspects, multiple items of evidence collected from the vehicle continue to be processed by the DOJ. The reward is still being offered, and the public is encouraged to come forward with any information pertaining to the case. There are several ways to contact the sheriffs office: by phone at (209-966-3615, via email at sheriff@mariposacounty.org, or for anonymous tips, use the Mariposa Sheriff App. Sheriff Jeremy Briese shared, Wendys family deserves answers, and my office will not stop trying to find those answers. Our detectives are working this case daily. I am confident we will catch those involved very soon. Zambia Convenes Regional Summit on Zimbabwe Elections President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia recently called an extraordinary summit of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to discuss security issues facing the region. One key topic on the agenda was Zimbabwes disputed national elections last month. The summit, held virtually, brought together leaders from Zambia, Namibia, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. They received updates on security challenges in eastern DRC as well as the ongoing SADC mission there helping to stabilize the situation. When it came to Zimbabwe, tensions have been high since the election commission declared incumbent Emmerson Mnangagwa the winner over main opposition candidate Nelson Chamisa. Chamisas party has rejected the results, claiming electoral irregularities. As the neighbouring country, Zambia wants to see a peaceful resolution. The leaders also examined a report by SADCs electoral observation mission criticizing how Zimbabwes polls fell short of constitutional and international voting standards. This report had faced backlash from some within Zimbabwes ruling party. President Hichilema and Zambia have taken a leading role in nudging dialogue to resolve post-election conflicts and ensure stability in the region. With democratic principles and human rights at stake, as well as the potential for violence, addressing Zimbabwes political crisis will certainly continue to be a priority debated within SADC in the weeks and months ahead. Breaking News via Email BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, September 28. Minister of Energy of Kyrgyzstan, Taalaibek Ibraev, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with China National Electric Engineering Company for cooperation in renewable energy and the construction of hydroelectric power plants in Kyrgyzstan, Trend reports. The signing took place during the visit of the Kyrgyz Minister of Energy to Beijing. Within the visit, Ibraev held a bilateral meeting with Zhang Jianhua, Director of the National Energy Administration of China. During the meeting, the parties exchanged views and discussed prospects for bilateral cooperation in the areas of renewable energy and the construction of hydroelectric power plants in Kyrgyzstan. Kyrgyzstan's minister expressed gratitude for the interest shown by the Chinese side and said he hopes for close cooperation between the two countries in the field of energy. In Beijing, Ibraev also participated in a meeting with representatives of the Chinese business community. During the meeting, the minister showed a presentation on promising projects related to the construction of hydroelectric power stations, mini hydropower plants, and renewable energy sources being implemented in Kyrgyzstan. Stern Warning from Traditional Healers: Pay Up or Face Curses and Consequences! In a spine-chilling turn of events, traditional healers in Zimbabwe have issued a dire ultimatum: settle your bills or suffer the wrath of curses. The unsettling incident unfolded when a man, Innocent Ndaruza, failed to pay a US$150 fee to Sekuru Chihwa, a renowned traditional healer from Nyanga. Seeking retribution, Sekuru Chihwa allegedly unleashed baboons to demand payment, leaving Innocent and his wife terrified by the persistent voices demanding their dues within the confines of their own home. Mr. Ndaruza shared that his wife had faced difficulties conceiving for several years until they sought the services of Sekuru Chihwa. Following their consultation, his wife successfully became pregnant. Interestingly, Mr. Ndaruzas father fell ill as soon as his wife conceived, confirming a prediction made by Sekuru Chihwa that the person causing their problems would fall ill upon his wifes pregnancy. For his services, Sekuru Chihwa charged Mr. Ndaruza a fee of US$150, payable over two months. However, due to losing his job a month after the consultation, Mr. Ndaruza was unable to fulfill the payment within the agreed time-frame. Despite later raising the money and attempting to reason with Sekuru Chihwa, the traditional healer refused to accept the payment, citing the expiration of the agreed-upon time-frame. As foretold by Sekuru Chihwa, baboons now regularly visit Mr. Ndaruzas homestead, sometimes appearing individually and other times as a whole troop. These unusual visitors sit in the yard and demand the money owed to Sekuru Chihwa. Moreover, the voices demanding payment would be heard both during the day and at night. The disturbing incident was first reported by State publication, Manica Post. However, there seems to be a twist in the tale, as Sekuru Chihwa claimed to have lifted the curse on Monday, offering a glimmer of hope to the beleaguered couple. George Kandiero, the president of the Zimbabwe National Traditional Healers Association (ZINATHA), shed some light on the matter. He emphasized that people should recognize that the services provided by traditional healers are their livelihood. Kandiero drew a parallel between their practices and other professions, stating that people readily pay significant sums for consultations or medications, yet fail to honour their financial obligations to traditional healers. He urged individuals to respect and compensate traditional healers for the services they render, emphasizing the importance of a fair exchange. While Kandiero acknowledged that Sekuru Chihwas actions were not condoned, he emphasized the need for better mechanisms to address such disputes. Meanwhile, veteran traditional healer Sekuru Banda justified the incident, likening it to carrying an umbrella during a rainstorm. According to him, individuals tend to forget about the umbrella until it rains again, highlighting the importance of honouring financial commitments to traditional healers. It is crucial to find a harmonious resolution to such matters, as the repercussions can be far-reaching. While the methods employed by Sekuru Chihwa may have crossed ethical boundaries, it serves as a reminder to honour and respect the services provided by traditional healers to prevent such incidents from occurring. As tensions escalate between clients and traditional healers, it remains to be seen how this alarming warning will impact the relationship between seekers of traditional healing and the practitioners themselves. Breaking News via Email Namibian opposition leader Bernadus Swartbooi strongly criticized President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe, calling him a puppet of the Zimbabwean military. Swartbooi expressed his disappointment with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) for its failure to address Zimbabwes numerous acts of impunity both domestically and within the region. During a press conference in Namibia, the leader of the Landless Peoples Movement specifically condemned SADC for not reprimanding Zimbabwean authorities who verbally abused the blocs own election observers after they released a report denouncing Zimbabwes August election as fraudulent. Swartbooi cited several instances where SADC remained silent regarding Zimbabwes alleged misconduct. He pointed out that the regional organization failed to take a stand against the military coup that took place in November 2017, which ousted former President Robert Mugabe and installed Mnangagwa as his successor. According to Swartbooi, Zimbabwe was not suspended from SADC or the African Union (AU) despite the clear evidence of a coup. He criticized the lack of condemnation or suspension, stating that Zimbabwe got away with its actions, and Mnangagwa was installed as president by the military. The Namibian politician described Mnangagwas re-election as fraudulent and corrupt, and he criticized SADC for accepting the incumbent president into the bloc, considering he was a beneficiary of a coup. Swartbooi also accused Namibian President Hage Geingob of deviating from his constitutional responsibilities by congratulating Mnangagwa on his electoral victory, despite allegations of fraud. Furthermore, the opposition leader mentioned a case where the Zimbabwean government pressured SADC to disband the SADC Tribunal, which had ruled in favour of a white Zimbabwean commercial farmer who successfully appealed a Supreme Court ruling against the seizure of his farm during the violent land reform process. The regional appeals court, based in Windhoek, Namibia, was dissolved as a result. Swartbooi asserted that elections in Zimbabwe have been rigged even during the time when the late Morgan Tsvangirai, the founding leader of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), was in opposition. Questioning the special treatment given to Zanu PF, the ruling party in Zimbabwe, Swartbooi expressed his concerns about the partys disregard for the law and democratic principles, as well as the violence surrounding elections. He criticized SADC leaders for endorsing Mnangagwas disputed victory despite the concerns raised by poll observers about non-compliance with regional guidelines for credible elections. In his scathing remarks, Swartbooi accused SADC of compromising its own credibility and integrity for the sake of Zanu PF. He questioned the loyalty shown to the party and emphasized the need to assess what Zimbabwe has done for neighbouring countries to deserve such unwavering support. Swartbooi considered the current Zimbabwean administration a caretaker government appointed by Zanu PF itself. He expressed support for establishing a transitional authority to oversee Zimbabwean affairs and called for the expulsion of Zimbabwes ambassador to Namibia due to the allegations of election rigging. Breaking News via Email A young man from the village of Windmil in Umguza, Zimbabwe is facing serious legal consequences after a violent act left a fellow community member badly injured. 29-year-old Conelias Ndebele recently received an 18-month prison sentence for attempted murder. The trial was held at the Bulawayo Regional Court before Magistrate Vivian Ndlovu. On the night of July 17th, according to prosecutor Constance Mhlanga, Ndebele and Zwelinkosi Nyathi had been walking home together from a local bottle store called Nkosibususe. Their path took them past Asleby Farm. As the two men passed through the farms main entrance gate, an undisclosed dispute suddenly erupted between them. It was then, Ms. Mhlanga explained, that Ndebele attacked Nyathi savagely with a machete, striking him on the forehead, nose, and hand. Ndebele fled immediately, leaving Nyathi bleeding on the ground. Thankfully, others came upon Nyathi and were able to get him medical attention at the hospital. After reviewing the case details, Magistrate Ndlovu ruled that Ndebeles brutal assault qualified as attempted murder under the countrys laws. Taking into account the violence of the crime and severity of Nyathis injuries, Ndlovu sentenced Ndebele to 18 months in prison. The sentencing serves as a reminder that violent outbursts can have serious legal repercussions. It also shows that the village of Windmil and neighbourhoods like it will not tolerate such reckless danger to human life. Breaking News via Email President Makes Key Appointments to Strengthen Governance Zimbabwes President Emmerson Mnangagwa has named several new officials to important government roles. According to Martin Rushwaya, the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, the appointments aim to strengthen governance in key areas. Virginia Mabhiza was appointed as the new Attorney General. Mabhiza has extensive legal experience, having worked as a lawyer in both civil and criminal litigation. She also served during the inclusive government period coordinating the constitution-making process. Rushwaya praised her representation of Zimbabwe at international forums on legal matters. Agnes Mahomva was named the first-ever Public Health Advisor to the President. Mahomva played a pivotal advisory role in Zimbabwes COVID-19 response. Under her guidance, government ministries worked cohesively with communities and business to successfully manage the pandemic. Reports and a documentary highlighted the success of this coordinated national effort to contain COVID-19. Her new position will bolster public health policy-making beyond just the health ministrys scope. Former deputy transport minister Mike Madiro was appointed chair of the National Railways of Zimbabwe board. Madiro brings years of experience as a respected accountant. The statements indicate these appointments aim to harness the appointees expertise and strengthen governance during an important time for Zimbabwe. Jorum Gumbo also received a new advisory post to independently monitor and provide counsel on implementation of governmental projects nationwide. Overall, the appointments seem geared towards enhancing Zimbabwes leadership in legal matters, health policy and infrastructure development. Breaking News via Email Before Fat Bear Week, Dont Forget the Corpulent Cubs Competing in Fat Bear Junior Smithsonian If earthworms were a country, theyd be the worlds fourth largest producer of grain Nature Under a Hellish Ocean Habitat, Bizarre Animals Are Lurking NYT Dealmaking languishes at decade low on private equity drought FT. Thats a damn shame. Even a Booming Economy Cant Save Atlantas Office Market WSJ Climate Theres been a surge of abandoned oil and gas wells in Colorado over the past 90 days Colorado Sun US Shale Giant Agrees With JPMorgan; Oil Headed For $150 Gulf Insider Water #COVID19 China? India The Singer Who Conquered the World Without Autotune: Remembering Lata Mangeshkar on her Birthday One India Africa Smallholder Agriculture and the Challenge of Feeding Ourselves The Elephant European Disunion New Not-So-Cold War Apex Predator: The American Army in Normandy (excerpt) Big Serge Thought Biden Administration Can the government unambiguously waive sovereign immunity by accident? Adams Legal Newsletter 2024 Antitrust Digital Watch OpenAI reinstates ChatGPTs internet browsing privileges The Register. The deck: If the chatbot doesnt know what you need, itll Bing It! for paying customers. And if the Bing results have been completely polluted by AI-generated bullshit Its the Circle of Life! 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Antidote du jour (via): See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here NATOs annual Nuclear Policy Symposium kicked off in Lisbon, Portugal, on Wednesday (27 September 2023). Held annually since 1992, the Symposium brings together experts, diplomats and senior officials, to discuss some of the biggest nuclear challenges facing the Alliance. Participants will also hear perspectives from Indo-Pacific partners. Among the topics for discussion are Russias irresponsible nuclear rhetoric and signaling, the implications of Russias nuclear doctrine for Euro-Atlantic security, and the implications of developments in the Indo-Pacific region for NATO Allies. While we continue to focus on deterring the very real and reckless nuclear threats from Russia, we cant lose sight of other global nuclear challenges, said Jessica Cox, NATOs Director of Nuclear Policy, adding that Chinas rapid and opaque nuclear expansion is also cause for concern. At the NATO Summit in Vilnius, Allied leaders reiterated that the fundamental purpose of NATOs nuclear capability is to preserve peace, prevent coercion and deter aggression. After the Cold War, NATO greatly reduced its nuclear arsenal in Europe. NATO supports the goal of a world without nuclear weapons, but will remain a nuclear Alliance as long as nuclear weapons exist. At their meeting in Paris this week, NATO Allies and partners in the Land Battle Decisive Munitions framework drove forward efforts to increase ammunition stocks. In the run-up to this meeting, the NATO Support and Procurement Agency put framework contracts and orders into place for hundreds of thousands of pieces of key ammunition. These contracts, estimated at 2.4 billion euros including 1 billion euros in firm orders will deliver a wide variety of critical munition types such as 155mm artillery, anti-tank guided missiles and main battle tank ammunition. The first deliveries under these contracts are scheduled to start towards the end of 2023. Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said: NATO has tried and tested structures for joint procurement and they are delivering. I welcome Allies commitment to making major new investments in ammunition. Russias brutal war against Ukraine has reminded us that a war of attrition becomes a battle of logistics. Robust munitions supplies are essential to ensuring we can keep supporting Ukraine, while protecting every inch of NATO territory. This also provides a strong demand signal to industry across the Alliance to ramp up production. NATOs Land Battle Decisive Munitions framework was established in 2018 and allows Allies and partners to harmonize national procurement plans, while encouraging multinational purchases. Currently 24 Allies and partners participate in the programme. It is an integral part of NATOs push to increase ammunition production and aggregating demand as part of the new Defence Production Action Plan endorsed at the Vilnius Summit. The participating Allies are: Belgium, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, United Kingdom; plus Austria and Sweden. (As delivered) President Zelenskyy, My dear friend Volodymyr, Thank you for your warm welcome. And let me begin by paying tribute to your inspirational leadership, The heroism of your armed forces. And the dignity of the Ukrainian people. It is an honour to be back in Kyiv. Capital of the great nation of Ukraine. And today, a city with a special place in the hearts of the free world. When I was last here in April, we discussed our preparations for NATOs Vilnius Summit. And your preparations for the counteroffensive. Today, your forces are moving forward. They face fierce fighting. But they are gradually gaining ground. Every metre that Ukrainian forces regain is a metre that Russia loses. And there is a stark contrast. Ukrainians are fighting for Their families; Their future; Their freedom. Moscow is fighting for imperial delusions. Ukraine has strong backing from 31 NATO Allies and many partners. In total, more than 50 nations support and supply you through the Ukraine Defence Contact Group. And over one hundred and forty nations stood up for your sovereignty at the United Nations. Meanwhile, Russia is diminished on the world stage. Cut off from international markets. Staying home from international summits. And reduced to seeking arms from regimes like Iran and North Korea. We just had an important discussion on the next steps for NATOs support. At our Vilnius Summit in July, all Allies agreed that Ukraine will join NATO. And we took three historic decisions to turn this into reality. First, we shortened your path to NATO from two to one step. By removing the requirement for a Membership Action Plan. Second, we agreed a programme to make Ukraines forces fully interoperable with your future Allies. Fully adopting NATO doctrine and equipment. This is part of a major package of support, worth hundreds of millions of euros annually. Third, we strengthened our political ties to an unprecedented level, by establishing the NATO-Ukraine Council. A body where we can consult and take decisions together. The Council has already met for important consultations, including on Black Sea security, and will meet again soon. These three decisions mean that Ukraine is now closer to NATO than ever before. NATO Allies also continue to provide high-end capabilities to help you push back the invasion. Just in the past few days and weeks, this has included Abrams tanks, sophisticated missile systems, and air defences, as well as training for F-16 pilots. This is a collective effort by all NATO Allies. With equal burden-sharing. Of nearly one hundred billion euros in military support committed to Ukraine since the invasion, around half has come from the United States, And the other half has come from European NATO Allies and Canada. I also welcome your announcement that Ukraine and the United States plan to jointly produce weapons systems, including air defences. And I look forward to further encouraging news from tomorrows International Defence Industry Forum here in Kyiv. With participation from NATO and over 20 countries, it will be an important opportunity for Ukrainian companies to forge new partnerships with industry across the Alliance and beyond. Because there is no defence without industry. NATO has been conducting joint procurement for many years. Today, I can confirm that NATO now has framework contracts in place for 2.4 billion euros worth of key ammunition. Including 1 billion euros of firm orders. This covers capabilities like 155-millimeter artillery, anti-tank guided missiles, and main battle tank ammunition. This will help Allies to refill their stocks. While continuing to support Ukraine. The stronger Ukraine becomes, the closer we come to ending Russias aggression. Russia could lay down arms and end its war today. Ukraine does not have that option. Ukraines surrender would not mean peace. It would mean brutal Russian occupation. Peace at any price would be no peace at all. Ukraine needs a just and sustainable peace. And I therefore strongly welcome President Zelenskyys ten-point plan to achieve that goal. So Mister President, Ukraines future is in NATO. As we work together to prepare you for that future, NATO will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes. Thank you. Moderator: [speaks Ukrainian] Question: [speaks in Ukrainian] Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy: [answers in Ukrainian] Question: [speaks in Ukrainian] NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg: NATO has strongly condemned Russia's brutal war of aggression against Ukraine. It inflicts heavy losses, costs on Ukraine in loss of lives and material damage. But it also of course, represents a huge risk to all NATO Allies. Therefore, we have, since the beginning of the war, actually before the invasion, provided substantial support to Ukraine and stepped it up since the full scale invasion last year. I am constantly urging Allies to do even more to speed up delivery, to ensure not least air defences, and also to work on how to ramp up production so we can continue to provide support to Ukraine. Then regarding the debris from drones in Romania, we don't have any indication that this is a result of any intentional attack by Russia against Allied territory. But Russia's war and reckless strikes close to the Romanian borders are reckless and are destabilising. There should be no doubt that NATO is there to defend all Allies. We have therefore significantly stepped up our military presence in the eastern part of the Alliance, including in Romania with more troops, with more air policing, with more surveillance and also with different capabilities. That has enabled us to closely monitor the situation along NATO's borders. And the recent deployment of [an] additional six or several F-16 fighter jets, as part of NATO's air policing by the United States in Romania just adds to our presence in Romania, as a result of the destabilising and reckless interactions of [Russia] close to NATO borders. Moderator: [speaks in Ukrainian] James Waterhouse (BBC News): James Waterhouse, BBC News. Let me ask you directly about munitions. Could you expand on what youve just announced? Because you have Russia able to replenish stocks at a far greater rate than Ukraine. Is there a danger of complacency from the West? Can you expand on what the Alliance is going to provide longer term as Ukraine tries to protect its skies, sustain its counteroffensive? And of course Russia is going to look to replenish as well in these winter months. And Mr. President, can I ask you about Admiral Sokolov. After last week's attack on Sevastopol your secret services said he was killed, one of 34 officers. The Kremlin is trying to assert that is not the case through this unverified footage. And now your secret services are saying we are trying to clarify. Can you say definitively whether he is dead or alive? NATO Secretary General: First of all, we have significantly stepped up our support. But more than that, we have also engaged and worked with the defence industry across the Alliance now for a long time. Because it was clear already last summer that it was not sufficient only to deplete our own stocks. In the beginning NATO and NATO Allies depleted stocks to provide support Ukraine. But then it was clear that we needed to do more and that's the reason why we started to engage with NATO's defence industry already last summer. Then I met with Minister Kuleba, I met with Josep Borrell at the NATO Headquarters this spring, and we agreed also to step up the cooperation between Ukraine, the European Union and NATO, to ramp up production. And we had a meeting in June with NATO defence industry but also Ukrainian defence industry and Ukraine on the margins of the NATO defence ministerial meeting. We will develop further how we can work together to increase our own production in NATO countries but also to ramp up production inside Ukraine. And therefore I also welcome the defence industry conference that is going to take place here in Kyiv tomorrow, which is yet another step on how to mobilise more industrial capacity to produce the ammunition, the weapons, the air defences we need. And I welcome of course the announcement by the United States and President Biden and President Zelenskyy to do the same bilaterally between the United States and Ukraine. And then we will have the NATO Industry Forum in Stockholm next [month]. Again, the main focus will be on how to invest more. And I will keep on pushing Allies to sign firm orders because what the industry needs is signed contracts because then they can invest, then they can produce, and then we can increase production even more. We had a meeting recently at NATO. It is now clear that we have what we call framework contracts, standards contracts, for 2.5 billion for key ammunition out of which 1 billion is already firm signed contracts. So yes, rest assured we will produce, we will deliver ammunition, weapons, because this is about solidarity with Ukraine. It would be a tragedy for Ukrainians if Russia wins but it will also be extremely dangerous for us. So it is in our security interest to ensure that we provide Ukraine with the support they need to win this war. President Zelenskyy: [speaks in Ukrainian] Moderator: [speaks in Ukrainian] Canadian MP Anthony Rota RESIGNS as House speaker following Ukrainian Nazi fiasco Canadian Member of Parliament (MP) Anthony Rota has resigned as speaker of the country's House of Commons following controversy over a Ukrainian Nazi being honored by Ottawa. Rota's resignation came amid the fiasco surrounding Yaroslav Hunka, a Ukrainian who had served in a Nazi SS unit during World War II and later moved to Canada. He expressed his decision to step down, alongside his deep regret over the matter. "I particularly want to extend my deepest apologies to Jewish communities in Canada and around the world," said the MP for the Nipissing-Timiskaming electoral district in the province of Ontario. "I accept full responsibility for my action." Hours before Rota announced his resignation, Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly called the mistake completely unacceptable. "I think the speaker should listen to members of the House and step down," she said. "I dont think theres any alternative." The Liberal government of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also took a hit for "bringing shame" on the country. MP Pierre Poilievre of the Conservative (Tory) Party criticized Trudeau for his failure to have its massive diplomatic and intelligence apparatus vet and prevent honoring a Nazi." Aside from the Canadian Tories, other opposition parties have expressed their dissatisfaction, stating that Rota's apology is insufficient. MP Peter Julian of the New Democratic Party asserted that the House speaker must maintain an impeccable reputation. He added that this incident regarding Hunka has brought disrepute to the entire House of Commons. Meanwhile, other critics have accused Trudeau of attempting to deflect controversy by attributing the issue to "Russian disinformation." Journalist Glenn Greenwald was among those critics who questioned the Canadian leader and the broader tendency among Western elites to blame Moscow for their shortcomings. It is worth noting that hundreds of Ukrainian SS veterans settled in Canada after the war, including Hunka a member of the 14th Waffen Grenadier Division, also known as the 1st Galician Division. In the 1980s, a Canadian commission of inquiry found that "charges of war crimes" against the Ukrainian SS division had "never been substantiated." Despite this, the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies said the division "was responsible for the mass murder of innocent civilians with a level of brutality and malice that is unimaginable." Commendation turned to condemnation Hunka, 98, was born in 1925 in the village of Urman in the Second Polish Republic (now Ukraine). He volunteered to join the 1st Galician Division in 1943, and subsequently fought along the German Nazis against Russia's Red Army. He emigrated to Canada when WWII ended. The Nazi veteran was thrust in the spotlight during the Sept. 22 visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Canada's House of Commons. Hunka got a standing ovation from the MPs present, with Rota calling him a "hero." But the eventual discovery of his Nazi ties triggered a wave of criticism from Jewish organizations, advocacy groups, and leaders across the world. (Related: Trudeau and Zelensky emphatically honored a Nazi SS soldier before the Canadian Parliament in "deeply embarrassing" incident.) As Canada is reeling from the aftermath of its adulation of the Ukrainian Nazi, Poland made a move of its own. Przemyslaw Czarnek, Poland's education minister, urged Warsaw to initiate an extradition request for Hunka in connection with possible war crimes. The issue surrounding Hunka's recognition is particularly sensitive for Poland, due to historical conflicts between Poles and Ukrainian nationalist groups during WWII. This controversy also arises as Ukraine-Poland relations have become strained over issues like a grain import ban and Poland's decision to cease arming Ukraine while focusing on its defense preparedness. Visit UkraineWitness.com for more stories about Ukraine. Watch this video about the Canadian Parliament honoring the Ukrainian Nazi Yaroslav Hunka. The video is from The Kokoda Kid channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: YouTube censoring evidence of Ukrainian troops embracing Nazi symbols. Mainstream media asking Ukrainian soldiers to hide their Nazi patches from reporters. Mainstream media now covering for Nazi-affiliated Ukrainian military unit they once condemned. More evidence of neo-Nazi worship emerges in Ukraine, as commander of all the countrys forces pictured wearing swastika bracelet. Ukraines top military medical commander brags about ordering mass CASTRATION of all wounded Russian soldiers in latest Nazi-like eugenics celebration. Sources include: ZeroHedge.com TheGuardian.com BBC.com Brighteon.com Fed bureau to CO2 pipeline firms: Sorry, we cant help It seems every day brings more good news for landowners battling carbon-capture pipelines. (Article by Rebecca Terrell republished from TheNewAmerican.com) A federal agency that regulates pipeline safety standards has sent a letter to three major companies, explaining that state and local governments not the federal government have final say over the location and routing of their projects. The letter, addressed to the heads of Navigator CO 2 Ventures, Summit Carbon Solutions, and Wolf Carbon Solutions, clarifies the role of the federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration. Since 1991, PHMSA has regulated the design, construction, operation and maintenance of pipelines, but Congress never gave it authority over where pipelines are placed. Only in the case of gas transmission pipelines can the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission regulate siting. But there is no equivalent federal agency that determines siting of all other pipelines. The agencys associate administrator for pipeline safety, Alan Mayberry, also explained that each state treats pipelines differently. He advised the companies to deal directly with each locality and state in the construction process. But recent news from at least two of the affected states has been grim for pipeline firms. Both of the Dakotas public utilities commissions have recently denied permit applications, and various counties have also implemented strict setback ordinances and other prohibitions. Though this is good news for private landowners threatened with eminent-domain land grabs, the fight is far from over. Congress has approved billions in federal subsidies to develop carbon-capture and storage technologies, including $2.1 billion to fund low-interest loans for CO 2 pipeline expansion. Moreover, the Biden administration is urging Congress to establish federal siting authority over carbon-capture pipelines, according to a June 2 Congressional Research Service report. However, for now at least, states and localities still hold sway. In both the Dakotas, as well as in Minnesota and Iowa, state commissions retain siting authority. Nebraska is unique because individual counties call the shots. In each state, counties may establish setbacks. The irony is that these regulators have run into a problem of semantics. Because the federal government regulates pipeline safety, local ordinances that establish setback distances or other parameters cannot mention safety as the impetus of the regulation. Those that do will meet pushback in the courts, which claim preemption of federal law. One county commission chair told South Dakotas Argus Leader in a July interview: We cant write this up as safety, but thats what its all about: safety for our residents in the county [and] for their livelihood. But, then again, when did anything involving the federal bureaucracy make sense? Read more at: TheNewAmerican.com FTC sues Amazon for illegal conduct and a long list of monopolistic practices The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), with the support of at least 17 states, has filed its long-awaited antitrust lawsuit against Amazon for allegedly engaging in illegal conduct and "monopolistic practices" within its online store and merchant services. The FTC is asking the court to consider forcing the online retailing giant to sell some of its assets as the federal government accuses Amazon and other Big Tech companies of monopolizing the most lucrative parts of the internet. (Related: Senators call for FTC investigation into Google over YouTube ads that violate children's privacy.) Amazon, a company started by Jeff Bezos in 1994 with the help of a nearly $250,000 loan from his parents, is now worth around $1.3 trillion and has been beset by efforts from the FTC and other government and non-government groups fighting efforts to prevent the tech giant from taking control over the entirety of the online retail industry. The FTC's lawsuit has been expected for some time and is actually at least four years in the making, with the government agency having spent those years collecting complaints that Amazon and other tech giants have abused their dominance over social media, search engines and online retailing to become gatekeepers on the most profitable aspects of the internet. The lawsuit against Amazon was filed in the United States District Court for Western Washington in Seattle, where the company is headquartered. The FTC is joined by 17 state attorneys general from Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Wisconsin two Republicans and 15 Democrats. This is the latest attack on Amazon by the FTC, which more recently was able to get the tech giant to settle a lawsuit filed in May over allegations of snooping on children with Ring cameras. In June, the FTC sued Amazon again for tricking customers into signing up for Prime subscriptions and then making it unnecessarily difficult to cancel them. Amazon's monopolistic practices preventing proper growth in the free market The FTC's complaint and lawsuit argue that Amazon is a monopoly and misuses its powers as the largest online retailer in the United States. "The complaint alleges that Amazon violates the law not because it is big, but because it engages in a course of exclusionary conduct that prevents current competitors from growing and new competitors from emerging," announced the FTC in a press release. "By stifling competition on price, product selection, quality and by preventing its current or future rivals from attracting a critical mass of shoppers and sellers, Amazon ensures that no current or future rival can threaten its dominance," continued the FTC. "Amazon's far-reaching schemes impact hundreds of billions of dollars in retail sales every year, touch hundreds of thousands of products sold by businesses big and small and affect over a hundred million shoppers." With this position in the market, the FTC claims that Amazon is able to force sellers to use its warehouses and delivery services, thereby inflating costs for consumers and sellers alike. The FTC also argued that Amazon fights off efforts by sellers on its platform to offer products more cheaply on other platforms. In its filing, the FTC even quoted a seller who said: "We have nowhere else to go and Amazon knows it." The FTC is asking the court for a permanent injunction ordering Amazon to stop its unlawful conduct. "Left unchecked, Amazon will continue its illegal course of conduct to maintain its monopoly power," said the FTC in its complaint. The FTC is also asking the court to "put an end to Amazon's illegal course of conduct, pry loose Amazon's monopolistic control, deny Amazon the fruits of its unlawful practices and restore the lost promise of competition." The FTC is further asking the court to consider "any preliminary or permanent equitable relief, including but not limited to structural relief, necessary to restore fair competition." A structural relief order would force a company to sell its assets, such as a part of its business. Learn more about tech giant Amazon and its founder Jeff Bezos at JeffBezosWatch.com. Watch this video from Reuters discussing the FTC's lawsuit against Amazon over allegations of illegal pricing practices. This video is from the High Hopes channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Amazon rolling out PAY-BY-PALM services as new payment tech at all Whole Foods Market stores. Sen. Bernie Sanders launches probe into Amazon's labor practices. Amazon-owned Ring agrees to multimillion settlement with FTC over privacy violations including SPYING ON CHILDREN. THE PRICE OF GUILT: Amazon agrees to pay $30.8 million for violating child privacy laws and other privacy lapses but denies any wrongdoing. Amazon becomes first company ever to lose $1 trillion in market value. Sources include: Breitbart.com Reuters.com CNBC.com enGadget.com Brighteon.com What life is really like in Americas hellish inner cities All over the United States, major cities are descending into a state of chaos. Every day, more migrants that came pouring through our wide open borders arrive in our inner cities, and many of them end up joining gangs or selling drugs. Meanwhile, more of our young people get hooked on drugs with each passing day. In the worst areas, you can see hordes of them literally staggering around like zombies because they have been drugged out of their minds. All of this addiction is fueling an unprecedented homelessness crisis. In fact, the Wall Street Journal is reporting that homelessness in the United States is growing faster this year than ever before. In this sort of an environment, it should be no surprise that violent crime is absolutely exploding all over the nation. If you choose to wander the streets of Americas hellish inner cities, you are literally taking your life into your hands, because a violent predator could literally be around the next corner. (Article republished from EndOfTheAmericanDream.com) According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 80 percent of the U.S. population lives in an urban area Despite the increase in the urban population, urban areas, defined as densely developed residential, commercial, and other nonresidential areas, now account for 80.0% of the U.S. population, down from 80.7% in 2010. So what is happening to our inner cities directly affects most of us. Even if you dont live in a very densely populated area, there is a good chance that you work in one. Many years ago, I actually worked right in the heart of Washington D.C., and even though I had a few close calls I generally felt safe. But now everything has changed. Crime is rising so fast in our capital city that even members of Congress are giving people advice on how to minimize the risk of being victimized House Administration Committee Chairman Bryan Steil, (R-Wis.) on Monday warned would-be visitors to Washington, D.C. of rising crime in the nations capital and advised people how to respond to criminal acts and to minimize the risk of being victimized by violence like carjackings. The District of Columbia is currently struggling to contend with increased criminal activity that has many questioning the safety of living in the city at all. Compared to this point in 2022, data from the D.C. Metropolitan Police shows that homicides are up 28% and on pace to reach their highest levels in more than 20 years. Robberies, meanwhile, are up 67%. Residents have testified to increasingly driving for short distances due to fear of going outside. This is how bad things have gotten. We cant even maintain law and order around our most important government institutions. At this point the violence has escalated to such levels that even the Mexican consulate is warning about a significant increase in crime in areas previously considered safe Amid the crime wave, the Mexican consulate in Washington, D.C., has warned its citizens that The city of Washington, D.C. is experiencing a significant increase in crime in areas previously considered safe. Take precautions. In an emergency, call 911. When one of the most crime-ridden nations in modern history feels compelled to issue a warning about violence in your city, you know that you have a problem. On the west cost, homeless encampments are sprouting like mushrooms. Earlier today, I learned that one has even popped up right in the middle of Beverly Hills The homeless population has been growing out of control in California, and it was only a matter of time until the epidemic began spilling into the wealthier areas of the state. Well, it appears that day has finally arrived, as a homeless encampment has emerged in swanky Beverly Hills. Adding to the irony, the homeless tents are located right in front of The Altman Brothers office, which is featured on the popular show Million Dollar Listing on Bravo. Needless to say, the wealthy people that live in the area are not pleased about this one bit. How would you feel if a bunch of homeless people decided to camp out on your front lawn? I am sure that you would not be thrilled either. But many of these people desperately need help. Housing is now more unaffordable in the U.S. than it has ever been before, and this is creating a tremendous amount of hardship. A lot of those that are homeless would love to have homes of their own if they could afford them. Of course it is true that there are a lot of addicts among the homeless too. And when it is time to go to the bathroom, many of them will go wherever they decide it is convenient. In Denver, one businessman has had enough. He took some human feces that had been deposited in front of his business and he dumped it on the steps of the Denver City and County Building While Mayor Mike Johnston says addressing homelessness is his number one priority Video of Caldaras protest has now been seen by thousands of users on Twitter. In addiction to human feces, Caldara says that he also has to clean up vomit and urine and syringes and used condoms on a regular basis He says at least twice a week security cameras catch a homeless person defecating outside his business or worse. We have to clean up vomit and urine and syringes and used condoms and feces. We didnt cause the homeless problem in Denver but we have clean up after it, Caldara said. I can definitely understand why he is so upset. I am sure that you wouldnt want to deal with such nonsense either. But this is our country now. It has become a very filthy place, and it has also become a very violent place. Over the last 24 hours, video of a particularly violent assault in the Bucktown section of Chicago has made headlines all over the globe A horrifying video has emerged showing the moment that an innocent man is jumped by two opportunistic muggers on a Chicago street in broad daylight in the latest disturbing crime to occur in the Democratic-led Windy City. The incident occurred on Monday in the Bucktown section of the city. The man that was brutally assaulted was just minding his own business. That was his first mistake. If you are going to live in a core urban area in America today, you have got to constantly be mindful of your surroundings. He should have never been walking down those streets by himself, and when he heard someone rapidly running up behind him he should have known that trouble was coming. According to the Chicago Police Department, robberies in that particular area of the city are up almost 100 percent since 2019 Disturbing as hell. Could be me. Violent crime is out of control in Chicago. Lawless, these people. Heartless and lawless. No consequences. This poor man was just minding his own business, and his life will never be the same after this kind of attack, another commenter said. Chicago Police Department statistics show that robberies are up nearly 100 percent from 2019 in the Bucktown neighborhood and up 53 percent from 2022. Not too far from Chicago you can find the ruins of the once great city of Gary, Indiana. YouTuber Peter Santenello recently dared to visit Gary, and he encountered residents that are terrified to walk down the streets at night He spoke to residents who described being terrified to walk down the streets at night out of fear of being robbed or even shot and showcased an array of decaying buildings and abandoned homes, raising the question of how the once-bustling city that was the home to over 200,000 people turned into a vessel of drugs, violence, and murder, which now has a population of a mere 69,000. I admire his courage. It takes guts to go into the heart of Gary all by yourself. One local resident that he spoke to says that she has been robbed more times than she can count In Gary, you gotta watch your back, another resident warned. When you go into a store, you gotta watch your purse. Theyll follow you around the store to see what you got. Pick pocketers, stuff like that. They stole from me I dont know how many times. But even in the midst of all the misery, you can still find remnants of Garys glory days Sadly, countless other cities are going down the exact same path as Gary. In 2023, stores and other businesses are being shut down in droves in crime-ridden communities all over the nation. For example, Target just announced that they are shutting down nine more stores because theft and organized retail crime are threatening the safety of our team and guests Target said Tuesday that it will close nine stores in major cities across the country, citing violence, theft and organized retail crime. The company will close one store in New York Citys Harlem neighborhood, two locations in Seattle, three stores in the San Francisco-Oakland area and three more in Portland, Oregon. The discounter said it will shutter the stores for good on Oct. 21. We cannot continue operating these stores because theft and organized retail crime are threatening the safety of our team and guests, and contributing to unsustainable business performance, Target said in a news release. Just a few years ago, it would have been unthinkable for a major retailer to come out and make a statement like that. But now everybody can see that our country is coming apart at the seams all around us. And thanks to Joe Biden and his minions, conditions are getting worse with each passing day. They are allowing vast numbers of migrants to pour across our wide open borders, and many of them end up in our core urban areas. In New York City, officials are planning to spend more than a billion dollars on hotel rooms for immigrants for three more years New York City is planning on spending a staggering extra $1billion on hotel rooms for immigrants for three more years. The citys contract with the more than 100 hotels-turned-shelters, which was supposed to end this year, will now end in August 2026 and cost a total $1.365 billion almost five times the original price tag of $237 million. The new cost does not include other facilities turned into shelters such as the tent shelters set up in the McCarren Recreation Center in Queens or the Island Shores Assisted Living in Staten Island. A billion dollars is a lot of money. But it wont be nearly enough. The Big Apple has already run out of room to put people, and more migrants are constantly showing up. I would say that we are setting the stage for a societal meltdown of unprecedented size and scope, but the truth is that such a meltdown has already begun. Decades of very foolish decisions are catching up with us in a major way, and the chaos that we are going to witness in our inner cities during the months and years ahead will shock the entire world. Read more at: EndOfTheAmericanDream.com New survey indicates tight presidential race as both Biden and Trump receive support from 44% of potential voters President Joe Biden's lead over former President Donald Trump has completely disappeared as both candidates received support from 44 percent of potential voters in a new survey. According to the YouGov survey, which involved 1,636 adults, the 2024 presidential race is setting the stage for a highly competitive election with both candidates tied with same percentage of support. The survey conducted from Sept. 14 to 18 also asked the respondents which family is "more corrupt." Based on the results, 41 percent of respondents pointed to Trump and his family, while 38 percent believed in the Biden family crimes. But this actually marked an improvement for Trump as 46 percent of respondents considered his family more corrupt in an August survey, while only 36 percent held that view regarding Biden's family that month. Moreover, the approval rating of Biden stands at 38 percent, slightly above its all-time low of 35 percent recorded in August 2022. But only 34 percent of Americans approved of the way Biden handles the economy. (Related: Nearly half of all Americans doing worse under Biden according to major new survey.) For over a short period of time, the political landscape has undergone a substantial transformation compared to the previous poll conducted in August. Based on the previous poll, Biden had a slight edge over Trump, with the incumbent president polling at 47 percent compared to Trump's 41 percent. These results and shifts in polls happened following questions surrounding the age of Biden and the impeachment inquiry of the GOP against him. Survey: Vast majority of Americans think Biden is too old to seek re-election The survey results also show that 77 percent of voters consider Biden's age (80 years old) as a problem, while 64 percent hold the same sentiment for Trump. The respondents are also less likely to see Biden as more capable of serving another term, with only 27 percent of the respondents confident in his abilities. This result poses a similar outcome to the survey conducted by the Daily Mail and JL Partners in June featuring 1,000 American voters. Back then, 71 percent of the respondents said Biden was too old to spend another four years in the White House, while 14 percent said he should run for a second term. "These statistics highlight a growing sentiment among the electorate that Biden's age may hinder his ability to lead effectively for another four years," the Mail noted. James Johnson from JL Partners also gave his comments on the results of the survey and how this result could affect the upcoming presidential election. "There are few things that unite American voters, but there is one: The belief that Biden is too old to be president," Johnson said. "Decisive margins across all age groups, ethnic groups, and political parties agree with the sentiment. Though [Biden] managed to avoid his age becoming a pivotal issue in 2020, it looks set to be the defining hesitation in voters' minds next year." Even Biden has acknowledged that his age can be a real issue when voters and actually joked about "being 110" years old in an event in Connecticut in June. So, he knew to himself that this could be a contributing factor as the 2024 presidential election approaches. Head over to JoeBiden.news for more stories about the incumbent president. Watch financial expert Carol Roth explain to Glenn Beck how a second Biden term would bankrupt America. This video is from the High Hopes channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: RFK Jr. tied with Biden in primary poll, 20% of Democrats say theyd vote for Kennedy or Trump over Biden. NOTHING NEW HERE: Poll shows 52% of Americans DISAPPROVE of Biden. Poll: Most voters see Biden as a POOR LEADER who cannot be trusted. New survey shows 62% of Americans believe charges against Trump are politically motivated. Survey: 71% of Americans believe Joe Biden is TOO OLD for a second term. Sources include: TheHill.com Dailymail.co.uk Zelensky and Trudeau give soldier who reportedly fought for Nazi Germany a standing ovation The Canadian parliament, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have been reported to have given a standing ovation to a reported former member of a Nazi military division. (Article by Kurt Zindulka republished from Breitbart.com) Following addresses to the parliament in Ottowa on Friday from both Trudeau and Zelensky, the Speaker of the House of Commons Anthony Rota prompted a standing ovation as he honoured a veteran from the Second World War who fought for Ukrainian independence against the Russians and continues to support the troops today even at his age of 98. His name is Yaroslav Hunka he is a Ukrainian hero, a Canadian hero, and we thank him for all his service, Rota continued before a second round of applause. In the caption of a picture published by the Associated Press showing Zelensky and Trudeau standing and applauding Hunka, the news wire service identified Hunka as a former member of the First Ukrainian Division in World War II. The division is also known as the 14th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS (1st Galician), a division comprised mostly of Ukrainian volunteers after being established by Nazi Germany in 1943. Despite the International Military Tribunal in Nuremberg in 1946 concluding that the Waffen-SS was guilty of many massacres and atrocities in occupied territories, the government of Canada in 1950 decided to allow Ukrainians who served in the Waffen-SS to be admitted into the country from the UK. These Ukrainians should be subject to special security screening, but should not be rejected on the grounds of their service in the German army, the Canadian cabinet said at the time. In a Ukrainian language post on the blog Combatant News attributed to Hunak, he claimed to have joined the Nazi military division in 1943. The post also featured pictures of himself during the war, including his apparent training by the SS in Munich. Ivan Katchanovski of the University of Ottowa described the celebration of Hunka as truly unbelievable and an epic scandal, questioning: Did anyone in parliament or Zelensky realize that he served in [the] Waffen SS division? These are photos of SS Galicia Division veteran who was given standing ovation by Canadian parliament, prime-minister of Canada and president of Ukraine. He published these photos of himself in this division during training in Germany. He is standing in the middle in 1st photo, pic.twitter.com/YkfKZbJ1i7 Ivan Katchanovski (@I_Katchanovski) September 24, 2023 Although the 14th division of the Waffen SS has not been specifically found guilty of war crimes, it has been tied to several atrocities, including a reported massacre in Huta Pieniacka, a Polish village that had served as a shelter for hundreds of Jews. Professor Katchanovski has also claimed that members of the Ukrainian division have been implicated in numerous mass killings, which included mass executions and other similar massacres of Ukrainians and Jews in Pidhaitsi and Ustyluh and Poles in Edwardopole, Korchunky, Ameryka, Smoligow, Laskow, Chlaniow, and Wladyslawin, and participation in the suppression of the Warsaw uprising in 1944. A former officer of the SS Galacian Division, Michael Karkoc was also accused by the Associated Press of having been involved in the burning of villages, including women and children, and having lied about it to move to the United States. The division was also addressed personally by Heinrich Himmler, who reportedly told them in 1944: Your homeland has become more beautiful since you have lost on our initiative, I must say the residents who were so often a dirty blemish on Galicias good name namely the Jews. I know that if I ordered you to liquidate the Poles, I would be giving you permission to do what you are eager to do anyway, the SS commander added. Ukraine has come under international scrutiny for celebrating the Waffen-SS division, including bi-partisan condemnation from both Democrat and Republican congressional lawmakers in 2018. Neo-Nazis in Ukraine Might be a Problem After All, Says New York Times https://t.co/6JClF7oALC Breitbart London (@BreitbartLondon) June 7, 2023 For his part, President Zelensky, who has Jewish heritage, has also criticised his countrymen for honouring the division in 2021 when a series of parades were held across the country, including in Kyiv, with attendees waving the divisions flag and wearing its insignia. Zelensky said of the marches: We categorically condemn any manifestation of propaganda of totalitarian regimes, in particular the National Socialist, and attempts to revise truth about World War II. It is unclear if Zelensky, who has faced criticism over his militarys use of the neo-Nazi tied Azov battalion, was made aware of Hunkas role in the division prior to his celebration in the Canadian parliament. The Canadian government has also previously come under criticism over ties to Ukrainian Nazis, with Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland having been reported to have attempted to cover up the fact that her grandfather, Michael Chomiak, was a Nazi propagandist, despite previous claims from her office that such claims were Russian disinformation. Trudeau Pledges $650 Million More in Military Aid to Ukrainehttps://t.co/JD8aaQuKn3 Breitbart London (@BreitbartLondon) September 23, 2023 Read more at: Breitbart.com SMOKING GUN OF ELECTION FRAUD: Over 200,000 FAKE ballots printed on different paper types found in Maricopa County An independent media company recently exposed game-changing findings in the ballots found in the controversial election fraud capital in the United States, Arizona. Pollster Rasmussen turned to X, formerly Twitter, to share the audit conducted for the 2020 election turnouts. "Only one official ballot paper type was approved in Maricopa County, AZ for all 2020 election counted ballots, yet 10 types were discovered by voter-volunteers amounting to over 200,000 'non-conforming' ballots that were all counted in a race Joe Biden 'won' by far, far less," it captioned the tweet. The Grand Canyon State was reported to be the focal point of electoral cheating scandals during both the 2020 and 2022 elections, with Maricopa County at the center of all of it. A lot of theories on the election rigging in the said state have been swirling around online and offline but, according to the news outlet that has specialized in the collection and publication of public opinion information since 2003, the choice of paper used for printing the ballots could be the key to unraveling the mystery. "It turns out that there was only one type of paper that was approved for ballots. However, for some mysterious reason, there were 10 different types of paper used. What does that tell you? Well, for most critical thinkers, that would mean there were a whole hell of a lot of fake ballots out there, to the tune of about 200K. That's less than what Biden won the state by," Rasmussen reported. ICYMI: Only 1 official ballot paper type was approved in Maricopa County AZ for all 2020 election counted ballots, yet 10 types were discovered by voter-volunteers amounting to over 200,000 non-conforming ballots that were all counted in a race Joe Biden won by far far less. https://t.co/EnpgKbSrTB Rasmussen Reports (@Rasmussen_Poll) September 22, 2023 It was only in Maricopa County that voters got to examine all of their own 2020 ballots after certification. The pivotal audit was authorized and supervised by voter volunteers with the approval of the state senate and they found a lot of issues. "I would watch the ballots go by, and there were odd patterns. Seven of those ballots were for Biden, one for Trump, seven for Biden, one for Trump, seven for Biden, and one for Trump. That clearly doesn't that's not statistically possible," the audit further revealed. Also, a lot of things were not organic, according to the voter volunteers. For example, the bubbles being filled in are absolutely perfect, like they were printed. "It was obviously not done by a human hand. A human being did not do that, the auditors added and pointed out that it could only be printed by people who had access to the proprietary AZ ballot software. Moreover, after the volunteers checked a ballot, they observed that the paper was very thin and so much unlike the paper of the approved official ballot. "All counted ballots" in the county are printed on 80lb. VoteSecure ballot paper and 10 different types/weights of paper were found by the volunteers who examined the 2.1 million ballots. But of course, mainstream independent investigative journalism outlets claimed these are all 'baseless claims.' Kari Lake's 3rd election lawsuit soon to be decided The issue of the fraudulent 2022 elections in Arizona is still hot in the oven after less than a year. Critics are wondering about the developments of the case as several damning reports came out already pointing out the possible rigging. A Twitter user replied to Rasmussen's fake ballots scandal saying, "And yet besides Kari Lake I don't see any Republicans doing anything about it to safeguard future elections, that just tells me they are in on it or they would shut down all funding until they got to the bottom of it. No other problem is greater than unsecured elections." Another one, who seemed to be hopeless at the moment said: "Wake me up when people start going to jail." Meanwhile, the defeated Arizona Republican nominee for governor, Kari Lake's trial in a lawsuit requesting to access 1.3 million voters' signed ballot envelopes is now in the hands of a judge after wrapping up midday on Monday. According to Maricopa County Superior Court Judge John Hannah, he would issue a ruling as soon as possible after closing arguments in the two-day bench trial. Election officials stood by their argument that state law mandates the signatures on the envelopes remain confidential. However, as per Lake's legal counsel, she has a right to look into how the county runs its election operations and that people's signatures are public in other places, such as property deeds. AP reported that this is Lake's third trial related to her election loss. She previously lost two trials that challenged her competitor Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs' "victory" by more than 17,000 votes. In the second trial, a judge rejected a misconduct claim Lake made about ballot signature verification efforts in Maricopa County, home to Phoenix and where more than 60 percent of the state's voters live. (Related: Kari Lake's legal challenge to 2022 election in Arizona fails with judge tossing final case: The steal is complete.) Check out Rigged.news to read more about fraudulent election results throughout the United States. Sources for this article include: Revolver.news UncoverDC.com APNews.com Why is Bidens EPA arming up with heavy artillery weapons like a branch of the military? The federal government is arming itself to the teeth on the taxpayer dime, of course in what appears to be the makings of a soon-to-come civil war between We the People and the powers that be. The latest federal agency to stock up on military-grade hardware like advanced combat and reconnaissance equipment is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which as of September 14 has already spent nearly $3 million on such equipment. "As of Sept. 14, 2023, the Biden administration EPA has already spent $2,892,770 on these items, which is 143 percent more than what was spent during the entire Trump administration," wrote Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Ia.), ranking member of the Senate Budget Committee, in an oversight letter he sent to the agency last week. What Grassley and the rest of America wants to know is why is the EPA doing this? Is not the job of the EPA to simply regulate chemicals using science? Why does it suddenly require weapons of war just to operate? (Related: Last summer, the Biden regime mandated that more corn ethanol be added to unleaded gasoline in America so people's internal combustion engine vehicles fail more quickly, forcing everyone into a "green" electric vehicle [EV].) Is the federal government gearing up for war against the American people? Recognizing that the EPA has also become the Biden regime's climate enforcement arm, it suddenly becomes clearer why in the age of green tyranny there is suddenly this mad rush within the agency to buy up as many guns, ammunition, and advanced tactical equipment as possible. Perhaps it involves trying to force Americans at gunpoint into EVs rather than gas-powered cars? Grassley called the EPA's militarization under Biden "frightening," this comment coming right after a watchdog group found that other non-law enforcement agencies within the federal government are similarly spending gobs of taxpayer dollars to become new branches of the military. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS), as another example, has spent nearly $4 billion in taxpayer funds since 2006 stockpiling all sorts of guns, ammunition, and "military-style equipment" why? "The very same EPA that proposed slapping red tape on nearly every farmer's ditch in Iowa now appears to be armed to the teeth," Grassley is quoted as saying to the Washington Free Beacon. "The Biden EPA already has a reputation for overstepping its bounds, and that makes the agency's militarization all the more frightening. We need to know what exactly EPA is doing with this equipment, and whether it serves the interests of the American people." Since around the same time in 2006 as when the IRS started militarizing, the EPA has been quietly doing the same but with a much smaller budget of around $10 million thus far. Official spending data shows that the EPA has been purchasing "unmanned aircraft, night vision, and radar equipment." The EPA's spending spree for military gear does, to be fair, span multiple presidential regimes, both left and right. It was not until Barack Hussein Obama entered office that the spending really started to increase, though. While Obama occupied the White House along with Biden as his vice president, the EPA spent more than $6.5 million on guns, armor, radar equipment, mobile command posts, and various other types of advanced weaponry. While Donald Trump was president, the EPA spent about $2 million on such things. Ever since Biden re-entered the White House as "president," the EPA has reportedly spent another $3 million, so far to gear up for battle against ... someone perhaps the American people, and specifically those who resist the "green" agenda? The Biden regime is one of the most tyrannical and illegitimate "presidencies" America has ever seen. Learn more at Tyranny.news. Sources for this article include: FreeBeacon.com NaturalNews.com California faces legal battle over new restrictions on concealed carry permits California is once again at the center of a contentious legal battle over gun rights as private citizens and several gun owner organizations have filed a federal lawsuit against the state and the recently passed Senate Bill 2 (SB 2), which imposes new restrictions on concealed carry permits. The lawsuit, filed against California Attorney General Rob Bonta, was initiated by the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF), a national nonprofit dedicated to supporting gun rights, just hours after SB 2 was passed by the Democrat-controlled State Senate. "SB 2 is designed to frustrate and ultimately discourage individuals from exercising their right to bear arms by creating a patchwork of locations where Second Amendment rights may, or may not, be exercised," stated SAF Executive Director Adam Kraut. Under the new law, the legal age for firearm purchases is set to 21, training requirements for concealed carry weapon permits are increased and the the list of gun-free public spaces in the state are expanded. However, it removes the "good cause" requirement for getting a concealed carry permit. The gun-free public spaces in California prohibit the carrying of loaded firearms in government buildings, courts, schools, airports, public transportation hubs, churches, children's playgrounds, hospitals, places that sell alcohol, state parks, banks, libraries and other so-called "sensitive places." The new law also provides business owners and churches the option to post signs specifically allowing firearms on their property. Judges and current and retired law enforcement officers are also exempt from these location restrictions. "Overall, SB 2 is a massive prohibition on legal carry throughout the Golden State, which runs counter to what the U.S. Supreme Court said in its Bruen ruling last year," said SAF founder and Executive Vice President Alan M. Gottlieb. The lawsuit is backed by several gun-owner organizations, including the Gun Owners of America, the Gun Owners Foundation, the Gun Owners of California and the California Rifle and Pistol Association. Several private citizens have also backed the lawsuit. Controversial concealed carry law sparks heated debate SB 2 saw strong opposition from Republican lawmakers in the state legislature, who argued that the focus should be on addressing gun crimes rather than imposing stricter regulations on gun owners. State Assembly Minority Leader James Gallagher argued that SB 2 was misguided and unfairly targeted law-abiding citizens. "This bill puts the focus on the wrong people," Gallagher contended. "It's focused on law-abiding citizens who are not committing crimes and who are not using guns to hurt people in this state." Gallagher criticized the Assembly for rejecting other bills that he claimed would have addressed gun crimes more effectively. "It's sick. Don't lecture me about gun control and gun violence if you're not going to do something about the people who are the real problem and continue to go after law-abiding citizens," Gallagher insisted. "It's wrong, and we should stop it today by voting no and passing good measures that actually go after the people committing these crimes." GOP Assemblyman Bill Essayli, another opponent of SB 2, framed the bill as an assault on constitutional rights, particularly the Second Amendment. "Let's stop pretending that we care about gun violence, and let's say what this bill really isit's an attack on the Second Amendment," Essayli declared during the September 11 debate. "I'll be opposing this, and I look forward to the Supreme Court striking this down as well." (Related: Pro-2A group sues Connecticut over UNCONSTITUTIONAL state law banning open carry.) Check out Guns.news for more stories related to gun control measures. Watch the full episode of "Faithful Freedom" with Teryn Gregson featuring Dawn Jolly discussing why anti-open carry legislation is not lawful and does not make people safe. This video is from the We The Patriots USA channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: RFK Jr. is pro-Second Amendment, pro-First Amendment, anti-war and pro-border security. Biden uses SOTU address to call on Congress to legislate away the Second Amendment. NY Supreme Court rules Empire States gun control law UNCONSTITUTIONAL. Senate Dems propose blatantly unconstitutional bill that would shatter the Second Amendment. Unconstitutional: Government pushing for gun laws that brazenly contradict Second Amendment rights. Sources include: TheEpochTimes.com SacBee.com Brighteon.com No longer political: Chinas recent military exercises a DRY RUN to INTERCEPT U.S. forces rushing to defend Taiwan The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) has recently conducted military drills in the vicinity of Taiwan. But this time, it wasn't done to send a message but to practice intercepting U.S. forces that would come to the aid of the island nation. Taiwanese authorities and defense analysts have pointed out the "silence" of these military exercises, which feature swarms of fighter jets and warships. Previous large-scale military maneuvers from Beijing often came with waves of propaganda meant to intimidate Taipei. But this time, the PLA went low profile with the drills, which means that the Chinese military is working to enhance its ability to encircle Taiwan, neutralize the island's geographical advantages and prevent potential U.S. intervention in case of an invasion. (Related: China increases military budget to $224 BILLION in preparation for invasion of Taiwan.) Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) detected a record-high 103 planes from the PLA Air Force in areas surrounding the island in one day, according to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ). The day after that, 55 Chinese aircraft conducted sorties near the island. Meanwhile, at sea, an unusually large group of Chinese aircraft carriers accompanied by around two dozen warships sailed southeast of Taiwan in the Western Pacific. Chinese sorties have incorporated an increasing number of Y-20 transport and refueling aircraft flying alongside jet fighters to the east of Taiwan. China continues practicing for an INVASION of Taiwan Taiwan has historically considered its geographical terrain, including steep mountain ranges acting as a natural barrier, as one of its primary advantages in deterring a Chinese invasion. The island's military strategy has centered on maintaining control of the east coast, where it anticipated holding out long enough for potential U.S. assistance. The presence of American forces in the waters around Taiwan further complicates any potential Chinese invasion plans. To counter this, the PLA has adopted a strategy known as "anti-access/area denial" (A2/AD) to block a U.S. response. "They're getting better, and I think this drill is kind of proof that they're trying," said Ben Lewis, an independent military analyst based in Washington, D.C. who has been monitoring daily PLA activities for nearly two years. "We will surely study the PLA's likely courses of action and plan for proper response measures," said MND spokesman Maj. Gen. Sun Li-fang. "The closer the PLA's aircraft are to Taiwan, the stronger our countermeasures will be." However, the Taiwanese military has observed an increasing number of Chinese fighter jets and drones on the island's east side. For Shen Ming-Shih of the Taiwanese Institute for National Defense and Security Research, this poses a significant risk to key military and civilian infrastructure. He pointed to the vulnerability of Taiwan's upcoming fleet of advanced F-16V jet fighters, which previously could be stationed safely at bases near the eastern cities of Hualien and Taitung. The expansion of the PLA means that the Chinese military could bypass the east coast to launch attacks on these essential bases. Military analysts suggest that Chinese jet fighters lack the necessary range for extended operations on Taiwan's east coast, necessitating the use of Y-20 transport aircraft for refueling. The PLA recently organized fighter units to conduct refueling operations with these transport jets, according to Chieh Chung, an associate research fellow with the National Policy Foundation, a Taipei-based think tank affiliated with the Chinese Nationalist Party (Kuomintang). China still faces significant challenges in dealing with a potential U.S. military intervention, given Taiwan's advanced air-defense systems, according to analysts. "They need to do a lot more of these drills before I would say that they're really in a position to realistically threaten the United States' ability to intervene in the conflict in the Taiwan Strait," said Lewis. However, the PLA's capacity to deny U.S. access is expected to improve significantly when the 1,000-foot Chinese aircraft carrier, the Fujian, enters service in 2025. Read the latest news coming out of China at CommunistChina.news. Watch this clip from G News featuring Miles Guo discussing Chinese President Xi Jinping's preparations for the invasion of Taiwan. This is from the Chinese taking down EVIL CCP channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: China launches massive air, sea military exercise in practice run to invade Taiwan. Domestic crisis may force China to invade Taiwan, lawmaker warns. China carries out military drills around Taiwan in serious warning after US House Speaker visit. China preparing to launch an invasion of Taiwan, warns Chinese journalist. Taiwan to extend mandatory military service period amid rising tensions with China. Sources include: WSJ.com ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, September 28. Turkmenistan and the EU discussed promising areas of comprehensive partnership, Trend reports. These issues were discussed between the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the EU to Turkmenistan Beata Peksa. During the meeting, the sides discussed the prospects of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the EU. Berdimuhammedov congratulated Beata Peska on her appointment to a high diplomatic post and also noted that Turkmenistan attaches great importance to cooperation with the EU in various fields. The Head of State noted that in recent years, high-level contacts between the two countries have become more active. He also stressed that Turkmenistan highly appreciates cooperation with the EU and is ready to further strengthen these fruitful relations. During COVID, Fauci was SMUGGLED into CIA headquarters to influence agencys pandemic investigation; EcoHealth Alliance a CIA front organization The Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) rabbit hole runs deep, one of the latest revelations about it suggesting that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) was behind the pandemic from the beginning. Congressional investigators just dropped a bombshell report about how Tony Fauci was allegedly smuggled into CIA headquarters "without a record of entry" where he "participated in the analysis to 'influence' the agency's COVID-19 investigation." Former EcoHealth Alliance scientist Dr. Andrew Huff would know, seeing as how he saw behind the scenes the ways in which the CIA was the one running things through this "front organization." Be sure to check out the following interview from Brighteon.com with Dr. Andrew Huff in which he and the Health Ranger discuss bioweapons, DARPA, Wuhan and more: (Related: What do you think? Will the Biden regime, in partnership with the Chinese Communist Party [CCP], successfully launch COVID 2.0 this fall?) COVID didn't come from China, it came from the CIA and the U.S. military-industrial complex There is a reason why EcoHealth received a slew of lucrative contracts to perform dangerous experiments on bat coronaviruses in Wuhan, China, at the infamous Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) not long after the Obama regime banned gain-of-function research here in the United States beginning in 2014. Just four months prior to that ban, the National Institute of Health (NIH), then run by Francis Collins, shifted its research division to EcoHealth, which we know was headed up by Peter Daszak. "The research was shielded from government oversight by Fauci's NIAID, and Daszak was forced to report after the fact that he'd engaged in gain-of-function experiments," Zero Hedge reports. In a communique with The Intercept, virologist Jesse Bloom stated about this research that he does not think it is worth the risk, nor does he feel that it is even an appropriate area of research because of what it could unleash upon the world. "As a virologist, I personally think creating chimeras of SARS-related bat coronaviruses that are thought to pose high risk to humans entails unacceptable risks," Bloom said. You may recall that not long after COVID was publicly reported as having "escaped" from somewhere early on they said it was bat soup at a Wuhan wet market The Lancet published a screed written and signed by Daszak denying all claims that COVID came from a lab rather than a natural spillover event. Daszak and his buddies tried to claim that any allegations about COVID being lab-made constitute "conspiracy theories" that everyone must "stand together to strongly condemn." Huff tells a much different version of events. He says that after having worked at EcoHealth from 2014 through 2016 and seeing what was going on, he knew as early as December 2019 that COVID "was likely a lab leak." "Not only is EcoHealth Alliance a CIA front organization, but the United States of America is primarily responsible for COVID, not China," he alleges. Back in January in speaking to Fox Business, Huff further revealed that COVID "was actually a failed intelligence operation" the suggestion being that it did not exactly go as originally planned by its architects. "We were actually trading China advanced biotechnology for access to intelligence on their bioweapons laboratory. I believe. I can't prove that but a number of agencies that I discuss in the book, including Dr. Peter Daszak telling me he worked with the CIA." Huff has also written a book called "The Truth About Wuhan" in which he unpacks further the ties between Daszak and EcoHealth, the CIA, and other names and entities embedded within U.S. academic institutions and military installments. The latest news about COVID can be found at Plague.info. Sources for this article include: ZeroHedge.com Brighteon.com NaturalNews.com Here comes COVID 2.0: Wuhan Institute of Virology in China warns that another CORONAVIRUS outbreak is highly likely Quietly and unbeknownst to most, scientists at the infamous Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) in communist China published a study back in July claiming that as many as 20 different species of the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-23?) are now in circulation, and could eventually spark another outbreak or pandemic. Published in the journal Emerging Microbes & Infections, the study ominously warns that of the 40 some-odd coronavirus species evaluated, 20 of them are "high risk ... including 6 of which jumped to human [sic], 3 with evidence of spillover but not to human [sic] and 11 without evidence of spillover yet." Somehow, the researchers involved with the paper have concluded that a COVID 2.0 event is likely to occur in the very near future, based on their assessment of these so-called strains. "It is almost certain that there will be future disease emergence and it is highly likely a CoV [coronavirus] disease again," the study declares. "Thus, the early preparation for the animal CoVs with risk of spillover is important for future disease preparedness, regarding the likely animal origin of SARS, MERS and COVID-19." (Related: The Biden regime is also trying to usher in a COVID 2.0 event, complete with another round of mask and jab mandates, as well as lockdowns.) "Batwoman" Shi Zhengli listed among new study's authors Before COVID, nobody really thought twice about circulating coronaviruses. After all, the common cold is a coronavirus, and there are many forms of the common cold that have been in circulation since pretty much forever. Now things are different, though. The world has been fine-tuned into fearing the word coronavirus like the plague. And if communist China is still harping on about the alleged threat of it unleashing another "pandemic" soon, you can be sure that the powers that be are going to at least try to create COVID 2.0. Listed as an author of the new study is none other than "batwoman" Shi Zhengli, which is further concerning when considering her direct involvement in unleashing COVID 1.0. The director of infectious disease research at the WIV, Shi played defense for the Communist Chinese Party (CCP), denying the regime's involvement in the creation of COVID 1.0. "Shi initially disappeared from the public eye in early 2020 but then reemerged to defend the Chinese government and the WIV from 'filth' suggesting that a laboratory accident resulted in the release of the novel coronavirus and subsequent, ongoing pandemic," explained Frances Martel for Breitbart News. "Shi was nominated in September for a position in the prestigious Chinese Academy of Scientists (CAS), the world's largest research organization. News about the new study and its warnings only just recently hit Chinese social media where it is now circulating much to the surprise of many since the Chinese government has pretty much ended all of its COVID 1.0 tyranny and moved on to its next agenda item. The newest claim is that the CCP is "downplaying" the study's findings, this according to "an anonymous Chinese Centres for Disease Control and Prevention scientist" who said this to the state-run South China Morning Post. "Sometimes in private conversations, when talking with other public health scholars, we have noticed that intentionally or unintentionally, Chinese authorities are downplaying Covid-19, and some cities have stopped releasing infection data," that scientist is quoted as saying. At the very same time, the CCP just launched a new initiative to try to pressure the Chinese public into taking various Chinese-made coronavirus and influenza "vaccine" products against their better judgment. "Why not just stop beating around the bush and call it the U.S. election virus?" joked one commenter about what he feels this is all really about. Will you comply with another round of COVID tyranny? Learn more at Plague.info. Sources for this article include: Breitbart.com TandFonline.com NaturalNews.com El Paso at its breaking point as 2,000 illegals enter the city each day The massive surge in illegal immigrants crossing the American border from Mexico has pushed the Texas border city of El Paso to a "breaking point." El Paso currently sees more than 2,000 illegals pass through the city per day seeking asylum, causing shelters to exceed capacity and straining the city's limited resources. (Related: Illegal immigrants in El Paso bringing DISEASES like scabies, measles, bed bugs and COVID-19 with them.) "The city of El Paso only has so many resources and we have come to a breaking point right now," said city Mayor Oscar Leeser, a Democrat, at a news conference on Sunday, Sept. 24. As recently as early August, only about 350 to 400 people were crossing into El Paso every day. Just the day before Leeser's press conference, nearly 9,000 people made the crossing and entered the country, marking one of the highest rates of arrivals in recent months. Leeser has announced the opening of a new shelter to accommodate the flood of illegals into El Paso. The city's shelters are only capable of housing around 400 people, and these places need to be available first to help the city's homeless population. Over the past 10 days before his press conference, Leeser said the city has been working hand in hand with the U.S. Border Patrol to provide shelter for 6,500 illegal immigrants. Leeser has criticized the administration of President Joe Biden for not doing enough to fix the broken immigration system in the United States. "I think it's really important to note that we have a broken immigration system," said Leeser. "It's the same thing over and over again." Illegals from Venezuela, Honduras and Haiti flooding the southern border The problems besetting El Paso are part of a massive swell of mostly Venezuelan, Haitian and Honduran illegal immigrants from South and Central America traveling through dangerous routes just to get to Mexican border towns near well-known crossing points like San Diego in California and El Paso and Eagle Pass in Texas. Leeser said in his press conference that the illegals were taking dangerous bus and cargo train routes just to get to the U.S.-Mexico border. Leeser noted that many of the illegal immigrants did not want to stay in El Paso. However, many of them did not have adequate means of getting transported to their desired destinations. He has been chartering buses to send these so-called asylum seekers to other cities around the country. On Sunday, he chartered five buses to take illegal immigrants to Chicago, Denver and New York City. Leeser further noted that about two-thirds of the illegals who have crossed into El Paso currently are single men, and only about 32 percent are families. Just two percent are unaccompanied children. Tensions rising between states and White House Tensions have continued to grow between state and local authorities and the White House over the federal government's supposed inaction over the border crisis. For its part, the Biden administration has only sent an additional 800 troops to the border, adding to the 2,500 National Guard members already stationed there. The White House has also been attempting to implement a variety of other programs to stem the flow of illegals with varying levels of success. The administration's Department of Homeland Security attempted to stem the flow of migrants by creating special programs to process asylum and visa requests in the home countries of the so-called asylum seekers, pledging harsher consequences for those illegals who do not follow the rules, including deportations and expulsions. But whether or not these policies are effective is moot, as the Biden administration on the other hand also extended the temporary legal status of an estimated 472,000 Venezuelans who had arrived in the U.S. as of July 31. The "Temporary Protected Status" designation makes these illegals eligible for employment and travel authorization and are protected from deportation for 18 months from issuance a period that the federal government has the option to renew indefinitely. The nearly half a million Venezuelans given Temporary Protected Status join the more than 610,000 migrants who are currently safe from deportation due to this designation. These include an additional 202,000 Venezuelans, 188,000 Salvadorans, 117,000 Haitians, 57,000 Hondurans, 22,500 Ukrainians and 8,500 Nepalese. An additional nearly 16,000 people also hold this designation from nearly a dozen other countries including Syria, Nicaragua, Myanmar and Afghanistan. Learn more about the migrant crisis at OpenBorders.news. Watch this clip from News Nation showing how the surge in illegals crossing into El Paso is preventing cargo from being processed at the El Paso Bridge. This video is from the channel InfoWarSSideBand on Brighteon.com. More related stories: THE REPLACEMENTS: Biden regime to offer nearly half a million jobs to Venezuelan migrants flooding through America's southern border. Migrant TSUNAMI: Eagle Pass declares STATE OF EMERGENCY as nearly 14K border crossers flood the city in less than two weeks many more to come. BREAKING POINT reached: NYC, other sanctuary cities "tired" of illegal immigrants influx, struggle with local resources. Panama intensifies efforts to prevent migrants from making their way to the U.S. This needs to STOP! Tax dollars are being used to fund ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION across America. Sources include: NTD.com AlJazeera.com CFR.org Brighteon.com GOP House investigation: Biden crime family raked in $30M more than bank records indicate House Republicans said recently that their investigations will not go in vain as they push for the impeachment of the current president. They forecasted that President Joe Biden and his family have already raked in more than $50 million from the family's illegal foreign affairs about $30 million more than bank records show thus far. "Based on the evidence I've seen so far, I think the number is going to be north of $50 million that we're talking about here," Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) said on Fox Business's "Mornings with Maria" last week. In the course of their probes, the House Oversight Committee discovered several tranches of the family's business bank records, which exposed that the Biden crime family earned at least $20 million from business schemes in Romania, China, Russia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan. In total, nine members of the first family accepted payments from their international business ventures, including two of Biden's grandchildren. "This will go down as one of the most politically corrupt presidents and families in U.S. history," Mace said back in July. "And we've got to show and prove it to the American people. We've got to show them everything that we have." Other lawmakers on the committee also stated that up to $100 million came through the then-second family, as Joe's controversial son, Hunter Biden, and his foreign business dealings are currently at the center of a criminal probe. (Related: Hunter Bidens lucrative INFLUENCE PEDDLING scheme could spell the end for "Big Guy" Joe.) Apart from bank records, the committee also looked into tax records, text messages, and emails implicating Biden in his son's suspicious, overseas affairs. Whistleblowers from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) also recently testified that federal prosecutors stonewalled the investigation into the Bidens' business dealings. "It's enormous," Mace added and for her, it is mind-boggling that the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the IRS have done "absolutely nothing" when they've seen that kind of money flowing through dozens and dozens of shell companies. "The bribes, the payoffs, the money laundering, the racketeering, everything that's been going on, and no one in that family has been held accountable. And it's wrong," she continued. The Republican emphasized that the president "should be getting nervous right now" as evidence starts "adding up." Comer: Biden is aware of his family's illegal business dealings House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer (R-KY) agreed with Mace's $50 million prediction during an appearance on Fox News's Sean Hannity's show. "Do you believe that number is realistic and right?" Hannity asked. "I do think it's realistic," Comer replied, noting the committee has yet to uncover personal bank records of Joe's brother, Jim Biden, who secretly negotiated a $140 million settlement deal in 2012 between a U.S. company and the Saudi Arabian government. He used his relationship with then-Vice President Biden, court documents indicated. Comer believes that the subpoena for Jim Biden's personal bank records will be the first crack at Hunter's uncle. "Remember, Jim Biden didn't leave a laptop lying around, so it's not been as easy to track his transactions," he pointed out saying he intends to subpoena Hunter and Jim for personal and business bank records as soon as this week, Breitbart News reported. According to the independent news outlet, Comer did not issue subpoenas sooner because the committee insisted on practicing restraint to "show good faith." However, he stood firm in his argument that Joe Biden was very involved in this and that he knew what the family was doing. "We believe that this was a very organized crime ring because of the way the money was disbursed through [limited liability companies] LLCs and the shell companies and the way the money was disbursed through the various Biden members," Comer further told Hannity. Back in February, Hunter denied the committee's request for bank documents and communications. According to him, the demands lacked a "legitimate legislative and oversight basis" to request relevant information. Meanwhile, Biden's supporters, such as most Democrats as well as mainstream media outlets, continue to deny that the older Biden was ever involved in his family's "organized crime syndicate" and there is "no evidence" to support an impeachment inquiry into the president. "I can tell you that Hunter did not share his business with his dad," Hunter's lawyer, Abbe Lowell, told CNN. "I can tell you that he did not share money from his businesses with his dad. And as to the evidence out there, his dad, like all good parents, tried to help Hunter when Hunter needed that help." The statement by Lowell, a newer member of the Hunter Biden defense team, is a dramatic narrative shift in the Biden world. Joe Biden and his staff previously claimed he "never discussed" business with Hunter Biden and that he "was not in business with his son." Discover more about the Biden family's illegal international business dealings on BidenCrimeFamily.news. Sources for this article include: Breitbart.com FoxBusiness.com Government restrictions on HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE resulted in many needless COVID deaths, study finds The journaljust published a study showing that in countries where hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) was restricted from use during the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) "pandemic," many more people died compared to the death counts in countries where citizens were free to take as much HCQ as they wanted without government interference. Had all countries where HCQ is approved for use the United States is one of them, by the way, as hydroxychloroquine is fully approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allowed unfettered access to the drug during the "pandemic," COVID fatalities could have been reduced by about 520,000, the study authors found. You may recall that the illustrious Dr. Vladimir Zelenko successfully treated thousands of COVID patients in 2020 using HCQ. When combined with azithromycin (an antibiotic) and zinc, HCQ helped 99.9 percent of Dr. Zelenko's COVID patients avoid death. (Related: Remember back in late 2020, right around the time when Operation Warp Speed was launched by the Trump administration, when a pharmaceutical factory that manufactures hydroxychloroquine mysteriously burst into flames and exploded?) Blocking Americans from accessing lifesaving generic drugs just because Big Pharma wants to sell some new overpriced "blockbuster" drug or vaccine instead is a crime against humanity While Dr. Zelenko's protocol was, in fact, adopted and used by President Donald Trump, who also promoted HCQ, average Americans were generally unable to access the drug due to the U.S. medical system deciding that HCQ, ivermectin, and other COVID-killing generic drugs were off limits. Because HCQ is available only with a doctor's prescription, the medical industry threatened physicians with license removal or other punishment if they were caught prescribing HCQ to patients so many of them complied out of fear. Unless one orders HCQ or ivermectin from overseas, i.e., from a Canadian or Indian pharmacy, it is still generally quite difficult, if not impossible in some areas, for Americans to access these lifesaving drugs and we have the medical police state to blame for this crime against humanity. The new paper addresses this, showing that many lives could have been saved had access to HCQ and ivermectin been as accessible to Americans as these drugs are to, say, Mexicans who can legally buy these generic drugs over the counter all over their country without issue. What we learn from this new study is that more than half a million lives were needlessly ended simply because the government, in tandem with Big Pharma, decided that patients should not be allowed to access lifesaving generic remedies because said lifesaving generic remedies do not put billions into the pockets of the Big Pharma drug cartels and their kingpins. Drug dealer kingpins like Pfizer's Albert Bourla and Moderna's Stephane Bancel would not have been able to rake in billions of dollars in new profits, after all, had Americans been able to access lifesaving HCQ and ivermectin. In the comments on a story about this new HCQ study, someone revealed her preferred homemade remedy for COVID, which involves iodized salt, clean water, and the willingness to flush one's nose and sinuses with this simple and cheap purification protocol. "Simple saltwater cures all coronaviruses and viruses," this person further claimed, furthering the idea that God via nature provides many cures that are basically free and have nothing to do with any pharmaceutical corporations and their greedy executives (please note that the salt water nasal protocol is someone's personal chosen remedy for viruses and is not necessarily endorsed by this site). "As soon as you think you have an infection, try a salt water nasal flush before resorting to potentially dangerous drug remedies." The latest news about the never-ending government assault on medicine and freedom of medical choice can be found at Fascism.news. Sources for this article include: Expose-News.com NaturalNews.com PublicHealthPolicyJournal.com Leader in Richmond Democrat Party group posted bomb threat against Andy Ngo Virginia talk An official member of the Democrat Party in Richmond, Virginia, posted a bomb threat against journalist Andy Ngo on Friday. (Article by Katie Daviscourt republished from ThePostMillennial.com) Jimmie Lee Jarvis, the owner of Mission Control Research and Consulting in Richmond, posted the bomb threat on X ahead of Ngo's speaking event organized by The Virginia Council and Common Sense Society at the Commonwealth Club in Richmond, Virginia. The post included an image of dynamite with Jarvis writing in the description box, "On my way to the Andy Ngo event!" Jimmie Lee Jarvis, a member of @RichmondDems, the official Democrat Party group in Richmond, Va., posted a bomb threat against my live speaking event in the area tonight. pic.twitter.com/9dmaPaszId Andy Ngo ???? (@MrAndyNgo) September 23, 2023 According to the official website of Richmond Democrats, Jimmie Lee Jarvis is listed as an official member of the Richmond City Democratic Committee. Jarvis' threat was one of many that came from radical leftists ahead of Ngo's speaking event, which resulted in two venues pulling out at the last minute. While Ngo, senior editor of The Post Millennial, explained that the event was ultimately a success after the third venue refused to cave to the coordinated campaign attack of threats issued by Antifa and other far-left activists, Marriott forced the Westin to cancel the venue just hours before it was set to kick off on Friday. Earlier in the week, the Commonwealth Club pulled out from allowing its venue to be used for the event following harassment and threats of violence. Breaking update: @Marriott forced the Westin Richmond hotel to cancel my live speaking event today following a harassing and threatening campaign by #Antifa. This is the second venue to cancel following the Commonwealth Club. @CommonSenseScty & @VA_Council remain committed to https://t.co/ccr0ulYA9Opic.twitter.com/Q33TZB1LDI Andy Ngo ???? (@MrAndyNgo) September 22, 2023 Antifa and far-left activists utilized social media platforms like X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram to encourage fellow "comrades" to harass the venues with threats of violence in multiple calls-to-action. An account on X with the username @DSTRadicals provided a script for people to say when they call the front desk, which falsely claims that Ngo is a "homophobic neo-nazi" and that his supporters will show up "armed" with weapons. "Hey, the event this evening features a racist, misogynist, homophobe intent on provocative neo nazi speech. His name is Andy Ngo and he is a violent extremist. Many of his attendees are armed neo-nazis," the script reads. A flyer posted to social media by Robyn Proffer, who is behind the "Nonbinarymachinelanguage" account on Instagram and "enbyMachine" on X, labeled Ngo as among the "fascists" and strongly asserted that his presence is not welcomed in Virginia. "Fascists not welcome in RVA. Andy Ngo, we said it and we mean it. Stay out of our city," the flyer read, which features a photo of a violent assault carried out against Ngo in Portland in 2019 by members of Rose City Antifa. Proffer was arrested in Richmond in 2020 amid the destructive BLM riots that spread across the country and Ngo reported on his arrest. After the event concluded, Ngo posted about its success on X despite Antifa's attempts to thwart it from happening. "My live speaking event in Richmond, Va. at a third secret location has concluded. I am safe. Despite threats and two venues cancelling (Commonwealth Club and @Marriott), hundreds heard about the Antifa terrorism parallels between Richmond and Portland. Thank you @CommonSenseScty and @VA_Council," Ngo wrote. My live speaking event in Richmond, Va. at a third secret location has concluded. I am safe. Despite threats and two venues cancelling (Commonwealth Club and @Marriott), hundreds heard about the Antifa terrorism parallels between Richmond and Portland. Thank you @CommonSenseScty Andy Ngo ???? (@MrAndyNgo) September 23, 2023 The Post Millennial reached out to Richmond Democrats for comment. Read more at: ThePostMillennial.com The Dr. Ardis Show: Omicron was manipulated in a laboratory, says Dr. Peter McCullough Brighteon.TV Dr. Bryan Ardis and Dr. Peter McCullough talked about the ongoing worldwide narrative about the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) on the Sept. 20 episode of "The Dr. Ardis Show" on Brighteon.TV McCullough, a Texas-based internist and cardiologist, cited two papers from Japan that show how the world is still suffering from the omicron outbreak, which started in December 2021. Omicron was manipulated in a laboratory, he said. "It broke through natural and vaccine immunity," McCullough added. "It closed the immunologic door on [the] delta [variant], and it massively extended the pandemic." According to McCullough, the manipulation of omicron aligned with what Pfizer executive Jordan Tristan Walker disclosed to a Project Veritas undercover journalist. Walker remarked that the drug manufacturer is mulling directed evolution to alter the virus, in a bid to make more vaccines. This is what exactly happened with the vaccines for the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of omicron that eventually became ineffective. The cardiologist also noted that Big Pharma and Big Government already have a vaccine against the most recent omicron subvariant called XBB1.5. But the problem is that this new variant only comprises less than one percent of all COVID-19 strains. Latest variant called Eris on the rise According to McCullough, the latest COVID-19 strain called EG.5 or Eris is on the rise. This new variant, which comprises about 20 percent of all the strains detected, is causing a clinical syndrome in patients. (Related: Meet "Eris," the new COVID-19 subvariant thats about to be aggressively pushed as the next "plandemic.") The symptoms of Eris infection include a very mild sore throat and runny nose. But McCullough told Ardis that he hasn't seen any pulmonary involvement and fever in his patients. Given this, he remarked that people do not even need a COVID-19 test due to the variant's mild nature. He also dismissed the hysteria around Eris, insisting that this new variant isn't an alarming situation. McCullough even recounted advising one of his patients to go on steroids. The internist also said there was no systemic illness that would cause hospitalization. Despite government agencies reporting COVID-19 hospitalizations, McCullough said it was a product of people being hospitalized for other things and reinstituting hospital-wide testing. McCullough also shared to Ardis some remedies for COVID-19 infection. He recommended the use of nasal sprays and washes that work in the nose and mouth. Ingredients such as diluted povidone, iodine, xylitol and colloidal silver are of much help. The chiropractor also recommended the use of budesonide, as first proposed by Dr. Richard Bartlett. McCullough seconded this statement, noting that budesonide can work against the EG.5 strain. The two also touched on the COVID-19 vaccine, something McCullough has campaigned against. McCullough cited papers published in Germany that found the spike protein from the injection circulates in the bloodstream for six months after vaccination. Meanwhile, Ardis noted a pamphlet on the website of the National Institutes of Health he recently saw. The pamphlet discussed the manufacturing process behind the mRNA COVID-19 injections, and claimed that there wasn't any SARS-COV-2 virus in them. It also stated that a spike protein gene suspended in a plasmid was utilized in the injections to trigger an immune response. Follow Outbreak.news for more news about the COVID-19 variants. Watch the Sept. 20 episode of "The Dr. Ardis Show" below. "The Dr. Ardis Show" airs every Wednesday at 10 a.m. on Brighteon.TV. More related stories: Dr. Peter McCullough to be STRIPPED of medical certifications for defying official covid narrative. New study warns COVID-19 virus could evolve into a more pathogenic strain than Omicron. Did a COVID-19 pandemic ever REALLY EXIST? Dr. Michael Yeadon makes a very strong case against the novel virus. CDC data shows COVID hospital admission rates remain low in 97% of U.S. hospitals, but MASK MANDATES are making a comeback anyway. Spike protein in mRNA COVID vaccines: One of the most bioactive and damaging substances known to mankind. Sources include: Brighteon.com PeterMcCulloughMD.com ProjectVeritas.com Lawfare with Tom Renz: Tom Renz slams Florida public health emergency statute as UNCONSTITUTIONAL Brighteon.TV Ohio-based lawyer Tom Renz denounced one statute in Florida's public health emergency rules as unconstitutional during the Sept. 19 episode of "Lawfare with Tom Renz" on Brighteon.TV He began by reading the statute, which said: "During a public health emergency, [the] state health officer can order an individual to be examined, tested, treated, isolated or quarantined for communicable diseases [if] it has significant morbidity or mortality, and presents a severe danger to public health. Individuals who are unwilling or unable to be examined, tested or treated for reasons of health, religion or conscience may be subjected to isolation or quarantine." "If the individual poses a danger to public health, the state health officer may subject the individual to isolation or quarantine. If there is no practical method to isolate or quarantine the individual, the state health officer may use any means necessary to treat the individual 'any means necessary.'" Renz explained that based on this law, a person can be quarantined if they pose a risk during a public health emergency. Moreover, the state health officer can also use any means necessary to force an individual to accept whatever treatment regardless of their faith or conscience. According to the health freedom activist, this egregiously unconstitutional law will remain so unless it is changed or challenged. "Under this law if there's a public health emergency, the state health official has this much authority," said Renz. "Now this sounds like health slavery, not health freedom to me." Florida passing such an unconstitutional law is "scary" Renz also mentioned that in a separate section under the same public health emergency law, all things related to the health emergency must be consistent with standards developed by the federal government. He pointed out that those federal standards may well be in line with those mandated by the World Health Organization (WHO) during the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. "So basically if the federal government does something corrupt, signs on with the WHO or whatever, those standards could potentially be implemented. That public health official may actually have the authority to force someone using any means necessary into treatment." According to Renz, he guessed that the law would be at a blue state such as New York of California. However, the fact that it was Florida a red state under Gov. Ron DeSantis made it a scary development. The Ohio-based lawyer and health freedom advocate pointed out that the governor was banking on his COVID-19 record, but questioned why he is propped up as a hero. While DeSantis signed supposedly "good" bills into laws, this questionable provision still remains. (Related: POLITICAL COURAGE: Ron DeSantis wants Florida Legislature to permanently ban COVID-19 mask and vaccine mandates.) Renz warned that this emergency law is terrifying for Floridians because they could be locked into their houses or forced into a quarantine camp. It also opens the possibility of the state's resident being forced to take an injection. "According to this law, any means 'any means necessary to treat the individual' without regard to your faith or anything else," Renz stressed. He then questioned why DeSantis, who banks on his reputation as a defender of health freedom, has not done anything to strike down this unconstitutional statute. "What is this? Should I believe that this is just a random? I don't know what this is," Renz remarked. "What I do know though is that this is a disaster an absolute disaster. It's not OK in light of the fact that they are apparently working on new plandemics now." Follow HealthFreedom.news for more news about public health emergency rules. Watch the Sept. 19 episode of "Lawfare with Tom Renz" below. "Lawfare with Tom Renz" airs every Tuesday at 11:30 a.m.-12 p.m. and Saturday at 12:30-1 p.m. on Brighteon.TV. More related stories: Tom Renz calls for investigation of HOSPITAL MURDERS during COVID-19 pandemic Brighteon.TV. WHO declares end to COVID-19 global public health emergency after its fraudulent policies destroyed lives and economies. Florida surgeon general tells Americans to NOT cooperate with mask mandates. Biden regime surrenders U.S. sovereignty to WHO no more medical freedom, especially during a "health emergency." Florida becomes first state to officially advise against new COVID-19 boosters. Sources include: Brighteon.com TomRenz.com Target to shutter NINE stores in major U.S. cities, all Democrat controlled, due to out-of-control theft and violence In its continued decline, American retail giant Target has announced the closure of nine more stores in major cities all controlled by the left across the United States. After earlier announcing that lost and stolen inventory has cost the company $500 million in profits just this year, Target decided that it simply cannot keep these nine stores running any longer because they have become a serious liability. "We cannot continue operating these stores because theft and organized retail crime are threatening the safety of our team and guests, and contributing to unsustainable business performance," the company said in a statement. "We know that our stores serve an important role in their communities, but we can only be successful if the working and shopping environment is safe for all." CNBC reported that Target is closing one store in Harlem, New York City; two stores in Seattle; three stories in the San Francisco and Oakland Bay Area; and three additional stores in the Portland area. (Related: When Target decided to pull all LGBT "Pride" clothing from its stores this past summer, California Gov. Gavin Newsom shrieked like a hyena about how the retail chain is "selling out the LGBTQ+ community.") Target announces support for "Combating Organized Retail Crime Act" to punish thieves Nine stores may not sound like all that many when Target operates more than 2,000 stores nationwide. Even so, this is an ongoing decline taking place that Target is trying to stop by shuttering its worst performing stores with more on the way if that ends up not being enough. Target has been really outspoken about the organized crime rackets that are targeting its stores, these including the roving gangs of Black Lives Matter (BLM) terrorists that burst onto the scene after the George Floyd psy-op. While other retailers are likewise closing stores, albeit more quietly and with less fanfare, Target stands alone in blaming these closures on rising retail crime. "We do not want to close stores," said CEO Brian Cornell when asked back in May if these planned store closures have anything to do with rising crime rates. "We know how important our stores are. They create local jobs, they generate taxes, they're very important for those local shoppers, and they play a critical role in communities across the country." "We'll continue to do everything in our power to keep our doors open. At the same time, we'll be closely monitoring the safety of our team and guests as well as the financial impact to our business as we determine the right path forward at Target." In its most recent announcement about the nine store closures, Target also revealed that as a company it supports the passage of the "Combating Organized Retail Crime Act," which proposes stiffer penalties for thievery. The bill also calls for a change in the threshold required for prosecutors to bring federal theft charges. "The Act would also provide retailers with a formal venue to trade information with each other, and law enforcement, through a proposed Organized Retail Crime Coordination Center," reported Zero Hedge about the legislation. Since 2022, nine states have passed laws like this six so far this year. Various retailers and trade associations have expressed support for these kinds of bills to protect their businesses. Target faces additional problems with its ongoing support for LGBT causes like the genital mutilation of children. Morality is not exactly a strong point at Target, and with its "woke" transition has come a decline in customer support and loyalty, which is also cutting into the company's bottom line. As the U.S. economy scales down towards collapse, we will keep you informed about the latest at Collapse.news. Sources for this article include: ZeroHedge.com NaturalNews.com ESCALATION: U.S. to deploy 3,600 Army troops in Eastern Europe The United States Armed Forces is increasing its deployment of troops to Europe as the Russian special military operation in Ukraine continues, with an additional 3,600 Army troops slated to head to Eastern Europe this fall. The Army declared on Sept. 20 that about 3,400 soldiers with the 101st Airborne Division's 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team and 200 soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division Headquarters will head to Eastern Europe in the coming weeks. Army officials note that the units will be deployed mainly to Romania and Scandinavia. (Related: Biden orders 3,000 Army reserve troops to prepare for European deployment.) "We look forward to the return of the 82nd Airborne Division to the continent, and to the Rakkasan's next 'rendezvous with destiny,' which follows the back-to-back deployments of their storied division's two other infantry brigade combat teams," said Army Col. Martin O'Donnell, a spokesman for U.S. Army Europe. The deployment of troops from the 101st and 82nd Airborne comes is meant to replace Army divisions that are currently deployed in Europe. The 101st Airborne will take the place of the division 1st Infantry Brigade Combat Team. Meanwhile, the 82nd Airborne will replace a similar unit from the 10th Mountain Division. The 10th Mountain troops have rotated through postings across Eastern Europe and are presently getting ready for joint exercises with the Romanian military. "During the upcoming deployments, these disciplined airborne and air assault units, just like the 10th Mountain Division and 1st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division before them, will build allied competency and increase interoperability, and improve their combat readiness and warfighting abilities," O'Donnell said. Department of Defense officials were discussing whether to backfill both the 10th Mountain Division Headquarters and 1st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division based on a report from NBC News last Sept. 1. According to Marta Kepe, a senior defense analyst with the RAND Corporation, the deployments will not boost the U.S. military's presence on the continent but keeping that number steady with unit rotations indicates that America continues to be committed to the region. "The rotation also indicates that the U.S. has both the political will and the military capability to carry out force rotations in Europe. It may also indicate that in case of necessity, the U.S. could be able to support a longer overlap of rotating forces in there," Kepe said. Around 85,000 American troops currently deployed to Europe Over the past two years, the number of American military servicemembers deployed in Europe has fluctuated between about 80,000 and 105,000, with numbers usually rising to the higher average during military exercises and when unit deployments end and their replacements arrive at the continent. Currently, around 85,000 troops are deployed or assigned to Europe. The number of troops deployed to Europe has increased somewhat since February 2022, following the beginning of Russia's special military operation in Ukraine. However, the number of American military personnel on the continent is still much lower compared to force levels in Europe toward the end of the Cold War, when about 300,000 U.S. troops were based in Europe to counter any potential threat from the Soviet Union. Ivana Stradner, a Russia expert with the Washington, D.C.-based think tank the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, notes that besides the conflict in Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin has also been employing proxies to promote conflicts in other parts of Europe, such as in Moldova with the country's Russian sympathizers as well as the pro-Russian breakaway state of Transnistria and in Kosovo with the pro-Russian Serbs of North Kosovo and Serbia proper. Stradner said that Putin's goal is to continue to test the "red lines" of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and to make the coalition look powerless to prevent conflict. She added that the American military's decision to maintain force posture in Europe is a show of determination from the West amid fading political support for Ukraine in the U.S. and Europe. "This will not provoke Russia, as some people claim. On the contrary: Russia only understands force. Kindness is weakness, and weakness provokes people like Putin," Stradner said. Follow NationalSecurity.news for more news about the state of America's military. Watch the video below as a former U.S. Army officer breaks down the conflict in Ukraine. This video is from the Tim Kirby Russia channel on Brighteon.com. More related articles: Jeffrey Prather drops major BOMBSHELLS in powerful interview with the Health Ranger about Russia-Ukraine war and why Russia is BEATING the West with ease. Why are American hospitals treating wounded Ukrainian soldiers? War with Russia to massacre 50,000 Americans every two weeks, with forced conscription of young Americans now inevitable, warns US Army War College. Trump: COMPROMISE with Russia could have helped Ukraine avoid war. Sources include: TaskandPurpose.com ArmyTimes.com Brighteon.com Chinese companies have discussed the creation of enterprises for the production of electric buses in Azerbaijan. This was announced by Minister of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan Rashad Nabiyev, Azernews reports. "During a visit to China, we met with the leadership of leading transport companies Yutong and Zhongtong. We discussed the use of electric buses within the framework of projects implemented in the direction of mobility in Baku, as well as the creation of production facilities in our country by the respective companies," the minister said. ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, September 28. Taking into account the absence of its representative office in Turkmenistan, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO) strives to strengthen and bring closer cooperation with the country. Viorel Gutu, FAO Subregional Coordinator for Central Asia, told Trend. According to him, FAO is actively expanding its presence in this country, striving to accelerate the development of partnerships and cooperation. "Currently, FAO and Turkmenistan are intensively cooperating in the field of agriculture and environmental protection, which underlines the high intensity and productivity of our joint work. We have a number of projects focused on the conservation of natural resources, including soil and water. In addition, we are actively implementing the latest technologies that contribute to improving the soil resource management system," Gutu said. At the same time, he noted that the organization also has many initiatives that cover all countries in the region, and Turkmenistan is actively involved in their implementation. He also added that FAO invests significant efforts together with partners in this process. Gutu stressed that the FAO plans for the future include expanding the portfolio of projects and strengthening the dynamics of relations with Turkmenistan. Meanwhile, in the middle of this year, FAO and Turkmenistan agreed to launch the first technical assistance project in the country's water sector. Within the framework of the project, it was planned to study folk hydraulic techniques as well as the introduction of innovations such as drip irrigation, sprinkling, and the sprinkler method. An alarming number of bear cubs have died in the northern part of Japan due to the shortage of salmon, with experts blaming the rising sea temperatures caused by the climate crisis. A tour boat driver observed a starving bear cub frantically looking for food on the peninsula's eastern shore this month, with local authorities reacting with panic. According to initial information, the bear was foraging through piles of beached seaweed and flipping over boulders in search for food. Lack of food The estimated 500 brown bears who reside on Hokkaido's Shiretoko peninsula, a UNESCO world heritage site that has been renowned for its spectacular coastline and wild creatures, depend heavily on pink salmon in addition to acorns for their sustenance. Before returning to streams in Shiretoko between August and October to lay eggs, pink salmon that spawn in Hokkaido's rivers spend the winter in the sea. Due to the lack of river fish, brown bears have been forced to swim in the sea instead of lying in wait for the salmon as they travel upstream. "Some bears have grown really thin," Katsuya Noda, the tour boat operator. "They are having a tough time, because there are no fish in the rivers, just like last year." According to Masami Yamanaka, a researcher at the Shiretoko Nature Foundation, the poor acorn harvest and shortage of salmon were having a terrible impact on brown bear cubs. "An estimated 70% to 80% of the cubs born this year are dead," he said. "It's a really serious situation." According to experts, it is from mid-July to early August 2021 that the sea surface temperatures off Hokkaido stayed above 20C, which is 5C more than usual at that time of year. If global warming keeps up its current pace, the Hokkaido University researchers underscored that the seawater temperatures near the island might increase by up to 10C by the 2090s compared to 1980s levels. Read Also: Fatal Bear Attacks in Alaska Killed 2 Bear attacks According to the Hokkaido Salmon Propagation Association, it was from between July 25 and September 5, 2020 when the fishermen caught 482,775 pink salmon in rivers in Hokkaido, the northernmost main island of Japan, compared to only 23,298 the previous year. The capture in 2022 was rather meager given the statistical evidence that good catches happen every other year. As bears go towards the populated areas in search of food, the lack of acorns has been attributed to an increase in the incidence of bear assaults on people in Hokkaido and other northern Japanese regions. According to the prefecture's government, Hokkaido has witnessed 1,056 brown bears caught and killed in the year ending in April 2022, which was considered as both the greatest number ever and the first time the number has surpassed 1,000. Of the said total number, 999 brown bears were eliminated due to crop damage or because they are posing any risk or threat towards the locals in the area. Related Article: Bear Attack! Wisconsin Couple 'Double Kills' Massive Bear Who Entered Their Home Related Video: Neolithic woodworking on 5-foot logs from 476,000 years ago was discovered by scientists. This find, which is unusual in South Africa, was made with stone tools. Woodworks 60,000 Years Older Than Previous Discoveries In a paradigm-shifting discovery, preserved timbers demonstrate that Homo sapiens and maybe earlier species were constructing wooden structures 476,000 years ago. The oldest piece of previously discovered carpentry, according to Wikipedia, is a water well cover made out of oak planks that dates to 5,600 BCE. A carved spear from roughly 416,000 years ago was the oldest wooden tool ever discovered. The research reports on the dig of well-preserved wood at the archaeological site of Kalambo Falls in Zambia, dating back at least 476,000 years and predating the evolution of Homo sapiens. Read more >>https://t.co/5xQeP9obu2 Best of Science (@BestofScience1) September 27, 2023 These five-foot-long logs showed obvious evidence of stone-tool woodworking, with one end stacked atop the other at a straight angle. They resemble Lincoln Logs a little bit since the ends have notches carved into them to enable them to fit into one another. Rare Neolithic Find Nothing of the type has ever been discovered from this time period, and the Neolithic period rarely yields such discoveries. The excavations on a riverbank close to Kalambo Falls in Zambia, a country in southern Africa, were directed by Professor Larry Barham of the University of Liverpool, and he stated they altered his perspective on the first human predecessors. Barham said that they used wood to create a brand-new, substantial object. They created something that had never been before by applying their knowledge, creativity, and technical know-how. Although it's improbable that it was a hut or a cabin, the researchers think it might have been a platform that held other buildings on top of it or, given its proximity to the river, a type of jetty from which to fish. Although old wooden digging sticks were discovered throughout the excavations, no hominid bones have been uncovered. It's possible that we haven't found Homo sapiens or that a different species of the same genus was sophisticated enough to employ stone tools to conduct simple carpentry techniques before Homo sapiens fossils started to surface around 315,000 years ago. Several hominid species were present during that period in southern Africa, including Homo erectus and Homo naledi, according to Geoff Duller, a University of Aberystwyth professor of geography and co-author of the study. Also Read: 50,000-Year-Old Neanderthal Remains Uncovered in a Box Hidden for Decades Neolithic Period in Africa Southern Africa is the only region on the continent without a Neolithic era. The concept of having a Neolithic period was abandoned in South Africa in the 1920s when the term evolved to mean Stone Age with food production due to a lack of evidence for farming or herding at Stone Age sites. However, numerous sheep bones have been found in these locations ever since the late 1960s. The ongoing lack of Neolithic elements may perhaps reveal more about the ideologies guiding South African archaeology than it may about that continent's antiquity. A 2003 essay explains food production during the late Stone Age in southern Africa and makes a case for reintroducing the word Neolithic to the region. Related Article: Ancient Village on Stilts Found Under Oldest Lake in Albania Has 100,000 Spikes for Defense In a Ugandan woodland, researchers discovered five new species of geckos, including a Karamoja dwarf gecko that was pregnant. Pregnant Karamoja Dwarf Gecko A "dwarf"-like creature was hidden within Uganda's forests. The expectant animal attempted to spend the night atop a tree trunk. Scientists who were passing by noticed the animal was pregnant and found a "cryptic" new species. According to a recently released report, researchers visited the Karamoja region of central Africa's forests multiple times in 2015. Seven lizards were discovered by researchers in the field perched on tree trunks, according to the report. They studied the lizards more closely out of curiosity and found a brand-new species called Lygodactylus Karamoja, also known as the Karamoja dwarf gecko. According to the study, the Karamoja dwarf gecko is "large," measuring up to roughly three inches. It is described as having a "slender" body, a "rounded" nose, and many "chevrons" on its throat. Its back is covered in white dots and has a brown body. A lighter-colored gecko's scales feature what looks like a marbling pattern. The animal has brown eyes with a black pupil that is elongated. The gecko's belly and groin are varied hues of yellow underneath. Its throat has a pattern of U- and V-shaped stripes. The dwarf geckos in Karamoja were "always found on trees" and were most active during the day, according to the study, which described them as having a "cryptic nature." At night, a pregnant gecko was discovered. According to the study, the new species is found in wooded habitats of "mid-elevation savannahs" in the Karamoja region. The Karamojong people live in this region, which is where the new species was given its name. Northeastern Uganda's Karamoja region borders Kenya to the east and South Sudan to the north. According to the study, the new species may be distinguished by its size, color pattern, scale pattern, and other "minor" morphological characteristics. Based on the DNA analysis, the new species differed genetically from other dwarf geckos by between 6% and 16%. Four Other New Species of Gecko Four further new species of dwarf geckos were also found by researchers: a "large" mountain-dwelling gecko, a "leopard-like" pattern gecko, a gecko from a "unique" habitat, and a "large" forest-dwelling gecko. Also Read: New Species: Tarantula with Mesmerizing Electric Blue Hair in Thailand Mangrove Named After Charity Auction Winners Geckos in Uganda Due to its humid equatorial climate, Uganda is home to a wide variety of reptiles, including snakes, crocodiles, lizards, tortoises, and chameleons. The Uganda Reptile Village in Entebbe is the greatest spot to see these reptiles. The "gecko" or lizard will likely be the reptile seen most frequently when visiting Uganda. These critters are frequently observed scuttling around in tents or rooms. Although completely harmless, they provide a helpful service by eating mosquitoes or other insects. The newly discovered Karamoja dwarf gecko is an arboreal species that can only be found in the savannah on the trunks or branches of trees. Some specimens have been spotted dozing off on weak branches at night. They can be discovered close to settlements, along riverbanks, or in wide-open savannahs. Related Article: New Species Gonjong Bent-Toed Gecko Ignored in Indonesia for Being Common The National Weather Service (NWS) reported that a slow-moving upper low can unleash challenging weather conditions in parts of Ohio Valley, Southern New England and the Lower Great Lakes. Motorists with travel plans should check the latest forecast in the affected areas. The rainy outlook can cause potential slower commutes and travel disruptions. Heavy rain conditions: Where will it impact in the US? Based on the weather's advisory until September 30, a slow-moving mid to upper low can bring rainy conditions this late week. The NWS warned that it could unleash severe thunderstorms, damaging winds and hail. The challenging weather conditions can impact Southern New England, Western Atlantic and coastal Mid-Atlantic on Thursday or Friday. Moderate to heavy rainfall outlook can occur in Ohio Valley and Lower Great Lakes. Homeowners should also stay alert for possible flooding and flash flood risks due to the heavy precipitation this week, especially for people with outdoor plans. In addition, bringing an umbrella is recommended due to the high chance of rain. In West Central Kentucky, isolated flash flood risks can be possible. The rain can help ease the dry conditions in the region. Weather in the Pacific Northwest The low-pressure and strong front in the Northwest can bring a wet weather pattern in the region on Thursday. Rainy outlook can unload in parts of Northwestern US and Northern California. In addition, residents can anticipate possible below-average temperatures in the Pacific Northwest, Northern Rockies, Oregon and Washington State. The beneficial rain can relieve the prolonged drought in the region, particularly in parts of Oregon. Homeowners should watch out for small urban flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas in the Pacific Northwest. Also Read: Dry Conditions, Summer-Like Temperatures to Unfold in Northern New England, Rockies, Plains This Week Weather outlook in other parts of the US In parts of Colorado, the hazardous weather outlook said that dry conditions are expected in the region. Residents can expect scattered rain showers and thunderstorms from the weekend until early next week. Meanwhile, critical fire weather conditions can threaten parts of Colorado. The warm conditions, low humidity and gusty winds can fuel potential fire concerns. Residents should watch out for Fire Weather Watch. In Western Utah, possible thunderstorms can develop on the weekend. However, fire threats can also occur in the region this week. Keeping safe from thunderstorm threats The main concern is the development of severe thunderstorms with challenging winds. Homeowners monitor the latest forecast this week, especially in fire-prone areas in Colorado and Utah. Lightning strikes can cause potential fire threats. Homeowners are advised to observe fire safety to prevent bushfires. Staying at home is recommended this weekend to avoid possible weather dangers. Motorists should check for potential flooded roads this week due to the heavy rain outlook in the Southern New England and Ohio Valley. Related Article: Snow Potential: Cooler Weather Likely in Parts of the Northwest in First Week of October For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature World News A new X-ray study finds that modern-day bird feathers have more in common with dinosaur feathers than experts previously assumed, including a comparable protein makeup. The discovery sheds new light on how feathers evolved over hundreds of millions of years. Remnants of corneous beta-proteins According to a study published Sept. 21 in the journal Nature Ecology and Evolution, paleontologists at University College Cork (UCC) in Ireland examined feathers from three ancient animals: Sinornithosaurus, a 125 million-year-old nonavian dinosaur found in China; Confuciusornis, a 125 million-year-old early bird also found in China; and an unspecified species that lived in what is now the Green River Formation in Wyoming 50 million years ago. After analyzing the ancient feathers with X-rays and infrared light, the researchers discovered remnants of corneous beta-proteins (CBPs), formerly known as beta-keratins, which are proteins required for strengthening feathers for flight. After that, the international team of experts examined feathers from modern birds, such as zebra finches (Taeniopygia), and discovered that they had a similar chemical structure. The scientists also carried out additional experiments that mimicked the temperatures that the fossils were exposed to over time. These tests demonstrated that, as opposed to being a component of the feather during life, alpha-proteins can develop in a fossil as a result of the fossilization process. The study revealed that although some fossil feathers contain large amounts of alpha-proteins, it is likely that these proteins were not there at the time the feathers were produced. They developed as a result of the intense heat that fossils go through. Prior to this finding, experts believed that ancient animal feathers had an entirely different protein composition and were mostly made up of alpha proteins, which aren't as strong as corneous beta proteins. "Previous tests on dinosaur feathers, though, found mostly alpha-proteins. Our experiments can now explain this weird chemistry as the result of protein degradation during the fossilization process. So although some fossil feathers do preserve traces of the original beta-proteins, other fossil feathers are damaged and tell us a false narrative about feather evolution," said Dr. Tiffany Slater, co-author of the study. Read Also: Smallest Dinosaur Discovered in Amber Evolution of ancient feathers This new understanding not only demonstrates that proteins may be retained in the fossil record for up to 125 million years, but it also sheds new light on the evolution of ancient feathers by "pushing the time scales a lot further than what we thought." The research helps rewrite the story by demonstrating that the very first components needed for powered flight existed at least 125 million years ago. "We're developing new tools to understand what happens during fossilization and unlock the chemical secrets of fossils. This will give us exciting new insights into the evolution of important tissues and their biomolecules," said Prof. Maria McNamara, co-author of the study. Recently, a fossil of a dinosaur from the Jurassic Period named Fujianvenator prodigiosus, which gives insight on a crucial evolutionary stage in the formation of birds, was discovered in the Fujian Province. The pheasant-sized dinosaur with long lower legs existed in southeast China's Fujian province about 148-150 million years ago, according to experts. Related Article: 'Living Dinosaurs': Birds Posses Dinosaur-Like Features Before They Hatch from Their Eggs Related Video: As invasive ash emerald borers expand and destroy trees, Pennsylvania's Tyler Arboretum is closing its 17-mile hiking trail. Tyler Arboretum Hiking Trail Closure Visitors to Delaware County's 650-acre Tyler Arboretum will soon witness vibrant fall foliage on dogwoods, ginkgoes, and maples. Regrettably, 17 miles of trails outside the arboretum are closed due to the invasive emerald ash borer's devastating impact. A contractor is working to remove 900 ash trees, which are casualties of this pest that began its destructive journey through Pennsylvania's forests in 2007. Although the arboretum remains open with events, the invasive pest has finally reached Delaware County, concluding its destructive rampage that began in 2012 in the Philadelphia area. Some of Tyler Arboretum's victims were over a century old. Invasive Emerald Ash Borer The emerald ash borer (EAB) is a wood-boring insect that is invasive and native to areas of Asia. It was discovered in 2002 in the Detroit, Michigan, and Windsor, Ontario, regions, but it has probably been present in North America undiscovered since the 1990s. According to experts, wooden shipping containers or packaging materials may have been used to smuggle the EAB into Detroit. Since its introduction, the EAB has spread quickly across North America, having a devastating impact on the ash tree population and killing up to 99% of ash trees in its path. Throughout all regions of North America with ash trees, there is a possibility of an established EAB colony. Nearly 900 Trees in Danger Last spring, Arboretum officials underestimated the damage caused by the emerald ash borer in Middletown Township. An updated GIS survey revealed nearly 900 hazardous ash trees near trails, posing safety risks to the public. Some, are over 120 years old, and others are 30 to 50 years old. To address this, an ecological working group was formed. Phase one involves contractor Cox & Co. removing 584 trees to reopen 9.5 miles of trails. Progress is slow due to tree locations. This removal will transform the forest's appearance and is costly. The arboretum seeks donations to support the removal efforts. Also Read: Over 100 Invasive Species Pester Pennsylvania with 1500 Negative Impacts - Report Cost of Damages Skuja anticipates the first phase will cost over $500,000, with uncertain expenses for subsequent phases depending on various factors. The arboretum plans to create new habitats and aims to raise $1 million to $2 million for comprehensive landscape restoration. This challenge presents an opportunity for long-term regeneration. Erin Mooney, executive director of the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, noted a similar emerald ash borer issue on their 365-acre property, though not as severe as Tyler's infestation. They sympathize with Tyler's situation, having witnessed the problem for five years at their own center. 18 Years of Infestation and Eradication Plans Pennsylvania's DCNR initiated a plan in 2014 to combat the emerald ash borer infestation, which had already reduced the state's ash trees by 12%. The worst of the 18-year infestation seems to be over, as the pest has mostly wiped out untreated ash trees, formerly 4% of the state's forests. Delaware County saw the infestation about six years ago, leading to numerous dead ash trees at Tyler Arboretum. Widespread treatment is impractical and costly. The remaining hope lies in "lingering ash" trees that may be genetically resistant, though more research is needed before recommending ash tree planting. Related Article: Emerald Ash Borer Infestation in Oregon Slated for Intentional Burning as an Eradication Effort According to a recent report, a 4.2 magnitude earthquake impacted Italy's volcanic fields near the Campi Flegrei. An expert warned of the repeated seismic activity in the Super Volcano. No structural damage or injuries were reported after the volcano unloaded. However, residents near Naples and Campi Flegrei should stay alert for possible quakes or dangers near their areas. 4.2 Magnitude Earthquake in Italy Recently, NWN reported that a 4.8 magnitude earthquake hit parts of Tuscany in the Northeast of Florence. No damages were reported after the quake. The recent report showed that the 4.2 magnitude quake also struck the volcanic field near the Phlegraean Fields or Campi Flegrei. It is located near the western portions of the Naples. The volcanic field experienced repeated seismic activity with small earthquakes. Phlegraean Fields is also known as burning fields, a 13-km-wide caldera. The volcanic areas can cause violent eruptions with an active magma chamber. The Super Volcano can unleash devastating damage to nearby communities if it shows signs of eruption. However, experts noted that the volcano did not pose any threat of a potential eruption. With the increasing threats of the Super Volcano, Giuseppe De Natale emphasized the importance of checking infrastructures. De Natale is an expert in the field, serving as ex-head of the Vesuvius Observatory at the National Institute for Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV). De Natale explained the risk of seismic activity in the Super Volcano. Potential evacuation and assessment in towns near Naples are recommended. Also Read: Earthquake Emergency: How Homeowners Can Prepare Preparing for potential volcano eruptions and quakes People near the affected areas should stay alert for possible eruptions or quakes. Earthquake preparedness can anticipate the impacts of volcanic activities. Earthquakes can cause massive damages, including landslides, tsunamis, fire concerns and widespread power outages. Here are essential reminders to remain safe from volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Always remain updated with the latest reports. Homeowners should stay alert for alerts about possible eruptions and quakes. Mobile advisories are also helpful for communities. When power outages occur, a battery-powered radio can keep you updated. Immediately evacuate. Knowing the impacts and immediate evacuation areas can keep your family safe. It is essential to avoid wasting time when eruptions or quakes occur. During an earthquake, homeowners should never forget the 'Drop, Cover and Hold on.' Keep your disaster and emergency kit. Homeowners should store an emergency bag kit to bring to evacuation centers. The kit should include the essentials: medicine, non-perishable goods, bottled water, a small battery radio, flashlights, an extra power bank and emergency phone books. After the extreme event It is best to wait for advisories before you can safely return to your home. Homeowners should watch out for damaged electrical supplies and falling debris from damaged buildings. Related Article: Italy Earthquake: Magnitude 4.8 Quake Hits Parts of Tuscany; No Injuries, Damages Reported Yet For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature World News. BAKU, Uzbekistan, September 28. EIBs investments are fully in line with its established financial priorities in Uzbekistan, a source at EIB (European Investment Bank) told Trend. The source noted that EIB prioritizes the development of such sectors as energy efficiency, renewable energy, water resource management, and facilitation of access to financial resources for small and medium-sized businesses. "EIB directs its efforts toward fostering sustainable connectivity and aiding in the transition towards a sustainable, climate-neutral economic model aligned with the goals of the European Union. Within this region, the EIB's dedication to climate action primarily manifests through financial support for environmentally friendly infrastructure projects. These include endeavors related to energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, energy transmission, water supply, and sanitation improvements, as well as facilitating SMEs' access to financing," the bank said. As the source explained, the EIB supported the development of photovoltaic facilities in Uzbekistan with the largest collective capacity within the region, investing $83.6 million (as part of a larger sum of $396.4 million in collaboration with other international financial institutions) in Uzbekistan's 2023 solar program. "These projects are fully in line with the EIB's established financial priorities in Uzbekistan, encompassing a range of sectors including energy efficiency, renewable energy, water resource management, and facilitating access to financial resources for small and medium-sized businesses. This focus holds particular significance in the post-Covid-19 recovery phase," the bank concluded. Meanwhile, EIB's volume of investments in Uzbekistan's projects amounts to 410 million euros. The Bank continues to explore opportunities for engaging in access to finance support for the private sector in this region while supporting, as much as possible, their link to more green activities and practices. SD-WAN deployments continue to grow at an impressive clip, and the leading adoption drivers include cloud connectivity requirements, interest in SASE packages, the promise of simpler WAN management, and cost savings potential, according to IDC. The research firm evaluated 12 SD-WAN vendors for its newly published IDC MarketScape: Worldwide SD-WAN Infrastructure 2023 Vendor Assessment, which found the SD-WAN infrastructure market grew 25% in 2022. Looking ahead, IDC is forecasting a compound annual growth rate of 10% and expects the market to reach $7.5 billion by 2027. SD-WAN growth is driven by a variety of factors, including some that were the initial impetus for the development of this technology. Namely, an ability to optimize the performance and management of the WAN while also saving costs, said Brandon Butler, a research manager with IDCs network infrastructure group. According to Butler, the SD-WAN market is in a state of transition. Since the technology took hold nearly five years ago, vendors have evolved their platforms in a variety of ways, including by integrating more security features into SD-WAN offerings. One aspect concerns the natively integrated security capabilities offered by SD-WAN vendors, such as intrusion detection and prevention (IDS/IPS), next-generation firewall (NGFW), and content/web/URL filtering, Butler said. A second trend is the evolution toward secure access service edge (SASE) architectures that combines SD-WAN and cloud-based network edge security-as-a-service (NESaaS) tools, such as a secure web gateway (SWG), cloud access security broker (CASB), and zero trust network access (ZTNA), according to Butler. SD-WAN customers can work with their existing SD-WAN vendor to consume NESaaS and build a SASE architecture or use a multivendor approach, he said. SASE interest is on the rise, but not all enterprises are ready to commit. While much of the market momentum has shifted toward SASE, IDC research shows there is a significant portion of SD-WAN buyers that continue to evaluate SD-WAN infrastructure for the networking-specific capabilities of the SD-WAN, Butler said. Software-defined branch (SD-Branch), which refers to integrated management of SD-WAN with LAN/WLAN networks, is also gaining interest among enterprises. SD-Branch architectures create an opportunity for enterprises to have centralized visibility, analytics, and management of their network, across the LAN/WLAN and SD-WAN, Butler said. Other benefits of SD-Branch include the ability for advanced ML/AI-enhanced management and leveraging a cloud-based platform. SD-Branch is ideal for customers that want to consolidate management across their campus and branch for ease of management. Meanwhile, the cost savings potential for SD-WAN remains another key driver for adoption. The IDC Global SD-WAN Survey asked respondents how much savings they expect to derive from deploying SD-WAN, Butler said. The median response rate was 15.0%, but almost one-third of respondents (31.8%) said they expect to save more than 20% on WAN costs from deploying SD-WAN. Lastly, increased use of AI/ML-enhanced analytics and automation features is another important SD-WAN evolution. The visibility and automation platforms included in SD-WAN infrastructure products are maturing rapidly. Were already seeing interesting use cases for AI-enhanced automation in SD-WAN. For example, Cisco has the Predictive Path Recommendations (PPR) feature, which leverages data from ThousandEyes WAN Insights. The tool monitors historical network performance and application traffic flow patterns to forecast network path quality and makes path recommendations to optimize traffic along the most optimal routing path, Butler said. Having insights into network performance and end-user experience, and linking that data to advanced AI-enhanced automation systems, becomes a powerful tool for enterprises that are managing globally distributed SD-WAN deployments, Butler said. Five SD-WAN vendors driving platform advancements As for the vendors driving these changes, IDC named five leaders: Cisco, Fortinet, HPE Aruba Networking, Palo Alto Networks and VMware. The research firm called out seven vendors as major players or contenders: Aryaka, Barracuda Networks, H3C, Huawei, Juniper Networks, Nokia and Versa. Another three vendors did not meet IDCs criteria to be included as full participants of the research but were named vendors to watch: Ericsson/Cradlepoint, Extreme Networks and NetSkope. From the IDC report, here are the top 5 SD-WAN vendors strengths and challenges: Cisco Cisco has a strong heritage in enterprise routing and enterprise networking in general, which the company has leveraged to build a prominent market share position in SD-WAN. The company has two SD-WAN offerings: Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN and Cisco Meraki SD-WAN. Combined, they provide a comprehensive SD-WAN solution that meets a wide range of customer use cases and requirements. The company also has strong integrations of its SD-WAN with Cisco Umbrella and Duo, along with the Talos Threat Intelligence platform and third-party security platforms. And Cisco also has a strong go-to-market channel with a large network of resellers, managed service providers, and value-added resellers, along with partnerships with leading communication service providers. Challenge: Having two SD-WAN offerings causes some confusion in the market and for customers about which platform is best for which use case. Also, as Cisco evolves its security strategy with the introduction and continued development of the Cisco Security Cloud, the company has an opportunity to further simplify its SD-WAN and security portfolios into more streamlined product offerings. Fortinet Fortinet offers highly integrated security and networking SD-WAN capability via the company's FortiGate physical or virtual appliance, which has integrated next-generation firewall capabilities, along with SSL inspection and a custom ASIC. Fortinet also offers LAN and WLAN products for a SD-Branch architecture. Fortinet has a strong channel partner strategy with communication SPs, as well as managed SPs and VARs. Challenge: Fortinet is primarily a security vendor, which could pose a challenge for the company as it looks to engage with customers that prioritize an SD-WAN vendor with a heritage in networking, and routing specifically. Also, its primary security solutions are offered by Fortinet itself; this may be a limitation to customers that want to use Fortinet for SD-WAN but integrate it with third-party security tools. HPE Aruba HPE Aruba Networking offers two primary SD-WAN offerings: EdgeConnect SD-WAN, which is based on technology from Silver Peak and EdgeConnect SD-Branch, which offers strong integrations across HPE Aruba Networking's portfolio of enterprise networking products (e.g., wireless LAN, wired LAN, VPN, and security), managed by the Aruba Central. Aruba's EdgeConnect SD-WAN has strong capabilities in advanced routing and WAN optimization. In 2023 the company purchased Axis Security to provide cloud-based and unified ZTNA, SWG, CASB, and DLP integrated with the SD-WAN. Challenge: HPE Aruba Networking has two separate management platforms for its SD-WAN products and will continue to build integrations across them. Also, HPE Aruba Networking is actively building stronger integrations between its EdgeConnect products and the HPE Aruba Networking SSE cloud-based security technology the company acquired from Axis Security. Compared with some other SD-WAN vendors, HPE Aruba Networking has fewer communication service providers as channel partners. Palo Alto Palo Alto Networks has high levels of integration between Prisma SD-WAN and its suite of cloud-based security tools, named Prisma Access. The company has Prisma SASE, which combines Prisma SD-WAN and Prisma Access into a single offering. This single offering allows enterprise customers, and service providers, to consume highly integrated SD-WAN and security tools more easily. The company has an intuitive and feature-rich management platform, strong API support, and an integrated visibility and analytics tool. Challenge: Palo Alto Networks is primarily a security company, so it has had challenges appealing to organizations looking for a routing heritage in their SD-WAN vendor. The company's strength is in cloud-managed SASE, which could be a limitation for some customers that do not want to embrace a cloud-based security offering. The company does not have strong integrations or an offering for campus local area networking technology such as WLAN and LAN. VMware VMware's SD-WAN platform is based on technology from VeloCloud, which gives the company a strong heritage in the SD-WAN market. VMware is building a portfolio of cloud-based security tools that it will deliver from its SD-WAN Gateways, giving customers optimized connections into IaaS and SaaS, and a platform for hosting distributed security services including a CASB, URL filtering, and DLP. VMware has successfully leveraged communication service providers as an effective go-to-market channel, and has built a management platform for communication SPs. Challenge: VMware has some integrations with campus LAN technologies, particularly around visibility, analytics, and management, but it does not offer its own WLAN or LAN solutions. Some customers have voiced concern over uncertainty related to what the pending Broadcom acquisition will mean for VMware and its customers. TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, September 28. A regular session of the Uzbek-Turkish strategic planning group has been held, as the two countries are setting the stage for enhanced economic cooperation,Trend reports. Within the session, Minister of Foreign Affairs Bakhtiyor Saidov and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkiye Hakan Fidan held talks. Uzbekistans Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the parties summed up the achievements, as well as outlined short-term and long-term goals for the mutually beneficial cooperation. "We reviewed the schedule of upcoming events of the highest order, issues of expanding the legal framework of our relations, the implementation of all agreements reached between President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and President of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan," Bakhtiyor Saidov said. As a result of the meeting, a cooperation plan was signed between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan and Turkiye for 2024-2025 and a Memorandum of Understanding between the Diplomatic Academy of the University of World Economy and Diplomacy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan and the Diplomatic Academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkiye. Sudhir Suryawanshi By Express News Service A row erupted after a video of a Marathi woman breaking into tears after being 'denied' a flat in a housing society in Mumbais eastern suburb went viral. Opposition parties demanded action against the society chairman and secretary. The woman identified as Trupti Devrukhkar is seen sobbing, recalling how the secretary of the society at Mulund told her that Maharashtraians were not allowed there. Mumbais real estate market is very complex where properties are sold by invitations. Why invitations ? Cos developers particularly in high end apartments, can check & verify religion, caste, class & dietary of prospective buyer. If he/she fits, then only deal goes to next level. September 28, 2023 "The secretary of the housing society told me that Maharashtrians are not allowed there. When I questioned him and asked him for a copy of any such written rule, he started fighting with me and asked me to go to the police. Where have these people got arrogance from? Today, in Maharashtra, Marathi manoos cannot buy property in Mumbai," she says. The MNS swooped into action and forced the secretary of Shiv Sadan housing society to extend an apology to Devrukhkar. Later, the party shared a photograph of the secretary extending an apology. Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Raut also slammed the society. How did the society secretary deny the flat to a Marathi woman? This is not only denying the house to 'Marathi manoos'. This is a bigger issue. And why did such a situation arrive? Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde should give an answer over it. BJP broke the Shiv Sena, which increased the arrogance of some sections of society. There is a plan to marginalize the 'Marathi manoos' in Mumbai. The incident has exposed those who claim they are the real Shiv Sena, Raut said. The tears of Ms Devrukhkar will not go waste at all. Our Uddhav Thackerays Shiv Sena is with 'Marathi manoos' and fights for them, Raut added. NCP leader Jitendra Awhad said now 'Marathi manoos' was denied a flat and therefore there was an outcry in society, but when Muslims and lower castes were denied a flat by 'Marathi manoos', no one spoke. The outcry should be the same for everyone irrespective of the person and his caste and religion. It should not be selective. Earlier, Muslim were targeted, and later lower caste people but some sections of the society kept mum. Now, they are crying over denying flat to 'Marathi manoos', he said. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp A row erupted after a video of a Marathi woman breaking into tears after being 'denied' a flat in a housing society in Mumbais eastern suburb went viral. Opposition parties demanded action against the society chairman and secretary. The woman identified as Trupti Devrukhkar is seen sobbing, recalling how the secretary of the society at Mulund told her that Maharashtraians were not allowed there. Mumbais real estate market is very complex where properties are sold by invitations. Why invitations ? Cos developers particularly in high end apartments, can check & verify religion, caste, class & dietary of prospective buyer. If he/she fits, then only deal goes to next level.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Sudhir Suryawanshi (@ss_suryawanshi) September 28, 2023 "The secretary of the housing society told me that Maharashtrians are not allowed there. When I questioned him and asked him for a copy of any such written rule, he started fighting with me and asked me to go to the police. Where have these people got arrogance from? Today, in Maharashtra, Marathi manoos cannot buy property in Mumbai," she says. The MNS swooped into action and forced the secretary of Shiv Sadan housing society to extend an apology to Devrukhkar. Later, the party shared a photograph of the secretary extending an apology. Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Raut also slammed the society. How did the society secretary deny the flat to a Marathi woman? This is not only denying the house to 'Marathi manoos'. This is a bigger issue. And why did such a situation arrive? Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde should give an answer over it. BJP broke the Shiv Sena, which increased the arrogance of some sections of society. There is a plan to marginalize the 'Marathi manoos' in Mumbai. The incident has exposed those who claim they are the real Shiv Sena, Raut said. The tears of Ms Devrukhkar will not go waste at all. Our Uddhav Thackerays Shiv Sena is with 'Marathi manoos' and fights for them, Raut added. NCP leader Jitendra Awhad said now 'Marathi manoos' was denied a flat and therefore there was an outcry in society, but when Muslims and lower castes were denied a flat by 'Marathi manoos', no one spoke. The outcry should be the same for everyone irrespective of the person and his caste and religion. It should not be selective. Earlier, Muslim were targeted, and later lower caste people but some sections of the society kept mum. Now, they are crying over denying flat to 'Marathi manoos', he said. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By PTI JAIPUR: Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP president J P Nadda held night-long discussions with the party's Rajasthan leadership here on a range of issues about the upcoming assembly elections. The meeting began at a hotel late on Wednesday evening and continued till 2 am, party sources said on Thursday. The discussions were held amid a buzz that two central ministers might be asked to contest the upcoming polls. The speculation follows the BJP's decision to name three Union ministers and four MPs in its second list of candidates for poll-bound Madhya Pradesh. Following the meeting, both Shah and Nadda left for Delhi on Thursday. A meeting with local RSS leaders was not held, party sources said. "Discussions on election strategy were held in the meeting last night," Gajendra Singh Shekhawat told reporters at the hotel on Thursday. Shah and Nadda arrived in Jaipur on a special plane on Wednesday evening and headed to the hotel near the airport for the core committee meeting. Party sources said that Shah and Nadda first held a meeting with former Rajasthan chief minister Vasundhara Raje for around 15 minutes. It was followed by a meeting with senior leaders in which the party's election strategy was discussed. Feedback on the four 'Parivartan Yatras' that the BJP held recently was also discussed. Union minister and the party's election in-charge for Rajasthan Pralhad Joshi, co-in-charge Nitin Patel, BJP's in-charge for Rajasthan Arun Singh, state unit president C P Joshi, Union Ministers Gajendra Singh, Arjun Meghwal, Kailash Chaudhary, leader of opposition in Assembly Rajendra Rathore, deputy leader of opposition Satish Poonia and other leaders were present at the meeting, the sources said. The meeting continued for around three hours. Poonia and MP Rajyavardhan Rathore were the first to leave the venue after the first round. Nadda and Shah held the next round of meetings with the BJP's national general secretary (organisation) B L Santosh, Union minister Pralhad Joshi, Nitin Patel, Arun Singh, Kuldeep Vishnoi and Vijaya Rahatkar, among others, the party sources said. "The leaders held discussions on the assembly constituencies and brainstormed on ways to win the maximum number of seats in Mewar, Vagad, Shekhawati, Hadauti and Marwar regions and in eastern Rajasthan in the assembly and Lok Sabha elections," a source said. During the meeting, a clear message was sent out that the "party organisation is supreme and all have to work together to ensure the victory of the party" in the elections. Some leaders said that ticket distribution and other poll-related issues were discussed in the meeting. Sources in the BJP's Rajasthan unit said Union Jal Shakti minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal may be fielded in the assembly polls, along with some other MPs. However, the party leaders who came out of the hotel refrained from sharing details of the meeting with the media. Convener of the election management committee Narayan Panchariya said the party's authorised person will share details of the meeting with the media. There is speculation that senior RSS pracharak Prakash Chand may be given certain responsibilities in the upcoming Assembly election. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp JAIPUR: Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP president J P Nadda held night-long discussions with the party's Rajasthan leadership here on a range of issues about the upcoming assembly elections. The meeting began at a hotel late on Wednesday evening and continued till 2 am, party sources said on Thursday. The discussions were held amid a buzz that two central ministers might be asked to contest the upcoming polls. The speculation follows the BJP's decision to name three Union ministers and four MPs in its second list of candidates for poll-bound Madhya Pradesh. Following the meeting, both Shah and Nadda left for Delhi on Thursday. A meeting with local RSS leaders was not held, party sources said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "Discussions on election strategy were held in the meeting last night," Gajendra Singh Shekhawat told reporters at the hotel on Thursday. Shah and Nadda arrived in Jaipur on a special plane on Wednesday evening and headed to the hotel near the airport for the core committee meeting. Party sources said that Shah and Nadda first held a meeting with former Rajasthan chief minister Vasundhara Raje for around 15 minutes. It was followed by a meeting with senior leaders in which the party's election strategy was discussed. Feedback on the four 'Parivartan Yatras' that the BJP held recently was also discussed. Union minister and the party's election in-charge for Rajasthan Pralhad Joshi, co-in-charge Nitin Patel, BJP's in-charge for Rajasthan Arun Singh, state unit president C P Joshi, Union Ministers Gajendra Singh, Arjun Meghwal, Kailash Chaudhary, leader of opposition in Assembly Rajendra Rathore, deputy leader of opposition Satish Poonia and other leaders were present at the meeting, the sources said. The meeting continued for around three hours. Poonia and MP Rajyavardhan Rathore were the first to leave the venue after the first round. Nadda and Shah held the next round of meetings with the BJP's national general secretary (organisation) B L Santosh, Union minister Pralhad Joshi, Nitin Patel, Arun Singh, Kuldeep Vishnoi and Vijaya Rahatkar, among others, the party sources said. "The leaders held discussions on the assembly constituencies and brainstormed on ways to win the maximum number of seats in Mewar, Vagad, Shekhawati, Hadauti and Marwar regions and in eastern Rajasthan in the assembly and Lok Sabha elections," a source said. During the meeting, a clear message was sent out that the "party organisation is supreme and all have to work together to ensure the victory of the party" in the elections. Some leaders said that ticket distribution and other poll-related issues were discussed in the meeting. Sources in the BJP's Rajasthan unit said Union Jal Shakti minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal may be fielded in the assembly polls, along with some other MPs. However, the party leaders who came out of the hotel refrained from sharing details of the meeting with the media. Convener of the election management committee Narayan Panchariya said the party's authorised person will share details of the meeting with the media. There is speculation that senior RSS pracharak Prakash Chand may be given certain responsibilities in the upcoming Assembly election. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Ejaz Kaiser By Express News Service RAIPUR: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday criticized the BJP for allegedly weakening the welfare schemes and regulations, launched during his party's regime at the Centre, intended for the poor, farmers, and labourers. Participating in the Krishak Sah Shramik Sammelan (farmers-cum-labourers convention) at Balodabazar district, about 90 km from Raipur, the leader of the opposition in Rajya Sabha slammed the BJP for making laws aimed for the rich. Only Congress thinks about the poor. BJP destroys the poor and encourages the rich. Those fighting for the poor create history but who work against them get eliminated. Today 5 percent of the population has control over 62 percent of the countrys assets and 50 percent of the people possess barely 3 percent assets. Such a wide disparity created during the BJPs rule, Kharge alleged. He dubbed the present womens reservation bill as another jumla (hollow promise) of Modi-led BJP government accusing it of misleading the people to seek votes, as the quota bill wont be implemented till 2034. If the Modi government really has a sincere desire to support the quota for women, the bill should have been put into effect now, said Kharge and exhorted the people to teach the BJP a lesson in the 2024 elections and vote for the Congress to remove the present regime. The Congress president expressed apprehension that the Modi government is attempting to destroy (replace) the Indian Constitution and sought the peoples support to safeguard democracy. Appealing to the tribals, Dalits, poor, and backward classes to stand firm in their support to Congress, Kharge said, If you lose this battle (2024 polls), the Constitution and democracy will not survive in the country. To safeguard both, you have to be on the side of the Congress and its leader Rahul Gandhi. Kharge and CM Bhupesh Baghel inaugurated 264 development works worth Rs 266 crore in the district. CM Construction Workers Pension Assistance Scheme was launched to entitle workers/labourers Rs 1500 as a monthly pension after completing 60 years of age. The third installment of Rs 1895 crore was released for 24.52 lakh farmers under Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay Yojana. He demanded from the Centre a census for the Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and a quota for them within the womens reservation bill. Kharge took the occasion to eulogize the contribution of Guru Ghasidas, the spiritual guru of the Satnami community, who are numerically the strongest Scheduled Caste (SC) group in the state accounting for nearly one-fifth of the population. Congress has given many firsts to empower women in various positionsSarojini Naidu first woman Congress president, first woman Lok Sabha member Minimata from the region (Chhattisgarh), first PM Indira Gandhi, first president Pratibha Patil, first woman LS speaker Meira Kumar and so on. The BJP just copies what the Congress has accomplished, he claimed. Before his public address., Kharge urged the gathering to observe a two-minute silence in honour of M S Swaminathan, eminent agricultural scientist, who died on Thursday. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp RAIPUR: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday criticized the BJP for allegedly weakening the welfare schemes and regulations, launched during his party's regime at the Centre, intended for the poor, farmers, and labourers. Participating in the Krishak Sah Shramik Sammelan (farmers-cum-labourers convention) at Balodabazar district, about 90 km from Raipur, the leader of the opposition in Rajya Sabha slammed the BJP for making laws aimed for the rich. Only Congress thinks about the poor. BJP destroys the poor and encourages the rich. Those fighting for the poor create history but who work against them get eliminated. Today 5 percent of the population has control over 62 percent of the countrys assets and 50 percent of the people possess barely 3 percent assets. Such a wide disparity created during the BJPs rule, Kharge alleged.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); He dubbed the present womens reservation bill as another jumla (hollow promise) of Modi-led BJP government accusing it of misleading the people to seek votes, as the quota bill wont be implemented till 2034. If the Modi government really has a sincere desire to support the quota for women, the bill should have been put into effect now, said Kharge and exhorted the people to teach the BJP a lesson in the 2024 elections and vote for the Congress to remove the present regime. The Congress president expressed apprehension that the Modi government is attempting to destroy (replace) the Indian Constitution and sought the peoples support to safeguard democracy. Appealing to the tribals, Dalits, poor, and backward classes to stand firm in their support to Congress, Kharge said, If you lose this battle (2024 polls), the Constitution and democracy will not survive in the country. To safeguard both, you have to be on the side of the Congress and its leader Rahul Gandhi. Kharge and CM Bhupesh Baghel inaugurated 264 development works worth Rs 266 crore in the district. CM Construction Workers Pension Assistance Scheme was launched to entitle workers/labourers Rs 1500 as a monthly pension after completing 60 years of age. The third installment of Rs 1895 crore was released for 24.52 lakh farmers under Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay Yojana. He demanded from the Centre a census for the Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and a quota for them within the womens reservation bill. Kharge took the occasion to eulogize the contribution of Guru Ghasidas, the spiritual guru of the Satnami community, who are numerically the strongest Scheduled Caste (SC) group in the state accounting for nearly one-fifth of the population. Congress has given many firsts to empower women in various positionsSarojini Naidu first woman Congress president, first woman Lok Sabha member Minimata from the region (Chhattisgarh), first PM Indira Gandhi, first president Pratibha Patil, first woman LS speaker Meira Kumar and so on. The BJP just copies what the Congress has accomplished, he claimed. Before his public address., Kharge urged the gathering to observe a two-minute silence in honour of M S Swaminathan, eminent agricultural scientist, who died on Thursday. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Preetha Nair By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Amid a raging debate on the criminalisation of adolescent sex, the 22nd Law Commission, in its report, has opposed reducing the minimum age of consent from 18 to 16 under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, it was learnt. The Commission submitted its report to the Union Law Ministry on Wednesday. The Commission made several recommendations in the report. The panel is not in favour of lowering the minimum age of consent from 18 to 16 under the POCSO Act, said an official, who is familiar with the developments. The POCSO Act, 2012, criminalises all sexual activities for those under 18, even if there is consent between the two minors. The minimum age of consent for sexual intercourse was raised from 16 to 18 years in November 2012. The POCSO Act says that any sexual activity with or without the womans consent if she is below 18, will be considered as rape. In the recent past, the higher judiciary, including the Supreme Court, as well as civil society organisations had raised concerns over the criminalisation of consensual relationships between adolescents. Raising concerns over the rise in the number of cases under the POCSO Act where consenting adolescents engage in sexual activity, Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud urged the legislature to review the age of consent under the 2012 Act. Several NGOs and activists have also approached courts to review the POCSO Act, 2012. According to a study on underage marriage cases from 2008 to 2017 in India by Partners for Law in Development, most cases were initiated by parents against marriages self-arranged by their daughters. In these cases, the husband may be jailed for up to 20 years under the POCSO law. A large number of consenting couples, even those who are married, are being prosecuted under POCSO. According to another study by the National Law School of India University, in several cases, most girls between 16 and 18 years of age declined to testify against the accused under the POCSO Act. CJI had expressed grave concern The POCSO Act criminalises all sexual activity for those under the age of 18, regardless of whether consent is factually present between the two minors in a particular case, CJI Chandrachud said at a consultation on child protection organised by the SC committee on juvenile justice in December last year Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp NEW DELHI: Amid a raging debate on the criminalisation of adolescent sex, the 22nd Law Commission, in its report, has opposed reducing the minimum age of consent from 18 to 16 under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, it was learnt. The Commission submitted its report to the Union Law Ministry on Wednesday. The Commission made several recommendations in the report. The panel is not in favour of lowering the minimum age of consent from 18 to 16 under the POCSO Act, said an official, who is familiar with the developments. The POCSO Act, 2012, criminalises all sexual activities for those under 18, even if there is consent between the two minors. The minimum age of consent for sexual intercourse was raised from 16 to 18 years in November 2012. googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The POCSO Act says that any sexual activity with or without the womans consent if she is below 18, will be considered as rape. In the recent past, the higher judiciary, including the Supreme Court, as well as civil society organisations had raised concerns over the criminalisation of consensual relationships between adolescents. Raising concerns over the rise in the number of cases under the POCSO Act where consenting adolescents engage in sexual activity, Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud urged the legislature to review the age of consent under the 2012 Act. Several NGOs and activists have also approached courts to review the POCSO Act, 2012. According to a study on underage marriage cases from 2008 to 2017 in India by Partners for Law in Development, most cases were initiated by parents against marriages self-arranged by their daughters. In these cases, the husband may be jailed for up to 20 years under the POCSO law. A large number of consenting couples, even those who are married, are being prosecuted under POCSO. According to another study by the National Law School of India University, in several cases, most girls between 16 and 18 years of age declined to testify against the accused under the POCSO Act. CJI had expressed grave concern The POCSO Act criminalises all sexual activity for those under the age of 18, regardless of whether consent is factually present between the two minors in a particular case, CJI Chandrachud said at a consultation on child protection organised by the SC committee on juvenile justice in December last year Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By Express News Service KOLKATA: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday summoned TMCs national general secretary and chief minister Mamata Banerjees nephew Abhishek Banerjee and his parents to appear before the central agencys Salt Lake office in connection with irregularities in recruitment in state-aided schools on October 3, around 10.30 am. Banerjee said the day coincides with that of the party's protest rally in Delhi against the Centre's decision to withhold the state's dues under MGNREGA, which he is supposed to lead. The ED, which questioned Abhishek on September 02, asked the TMC leader, his father Amit Banerjee, and mother Lata three days after a Kolkata High Court judge came down heavily on the central agency for its sloppy investigation into the Bengal recruitment scam and the tardy pace of the probe. High Court Justice Amrita Sinha made no attempts to hide her dismay that Banerjees only asset disclosed in the report submitted to the central agency were life insurance policies. The list of assets as forwarded by the learned advocate representing Shri Abhishek Banerjee appears to be grossly incomplete. The asset of Shri Abhishek Banerjee who is a Member of Parliament and the CEO of Leaps and Bounds Pvt Ltd as disclosed in the letter forwarded to the Enforcement Directorate mentions only three insurance policies with Life Insurance Corporation of India. No further detail of the assets of the said CEO has been mentioned. A press release was made stating that the company has made dubious transactions and you dont feel the need to enquire from its directors and members? she lashed out during the course of the hearing. The ED is investigating the possible involvement of Leaps and Bounds Private Limited, a company whose CEO is Abhishek and his parents as directors, in the states primary school teacher recruitment scam. We decided to question Abhisheks parents as both of them are the directors of the Pvt Ltd company. We will mention the outcome of their interrogation in our report which will submitted before the court, said an ED officer. Earlier this month, the ED summoned me on a day coinciding meeting of #INDIA in Delhi. I dutifully appeared and complied with the served summons. Now, today yet again they have served me another summons to appear before them on a day when the protest agitation for West Bengals rightful dues is scheduled in Delhi on 3rd Oct. This stark revelation unequivocally exposes those who are truly perturbED, rattlED, and scarED! Abhishek tweeted shortly after receiving the summons. Now, today yet again they have served me another summons to appear before them on a day when the protest agitation for West Bengal's rightful dues is scheduled in Delhi on 3rd Oct. This stark revelation unequivocally exposes those who are truly perturbED, rattlED and scarED! pic.twitter.com/ysAy3qhqOu Abhishek Banerjee (@abhishekaitc) September 28, 2023 The recruitment scam in schools already landed former education minister Partha Chatterjee and many other TMC functionaries behind bars. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp KOLKATA: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday summoned TMCs national general secretary and chief minister Mamata Banerjees nephew Abhishek Banerjee and his parents to appear before the central agencys Salt Lake office in connection with irregularities in recruitment in state-aided schools on October 3, around 10.30 am. Banerjee said the day coincides with that of the party's protest rally in Delhi against the Centre's decision to withhold the state's dues under MGNREGA, which he is supposed to lead. The ED, which questioned Abhishek on September 02, asked the TMC leader, his father Amit Banerjee, and mother Lata three days after a Kolkata High Court judge came down heavily on the central agency for its sloppy investigation into the Bengal recruitment scam and the tardy pace of the probe.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); High Court Justice Amrita Sinha made no attempts to hide her dismay that Banerjees only asset disclosed in the report submitted to the central agency were life insurance policies. The list of assets as forwarded by the learned advocate representing Shri Abhishek Banerjee appears to be grossly incomplete. The asset of Shri Abhishek Banerjee who is a Member of Parliament and the CEO of Leaps and Bounds Pvt Ltd as disclosed in the letter forwarded to the Enforcement Directorate mentions only three insurance policies with Life Insurance Corporation of India. No further detail of the assets of the said CEO has been mentioned. A press release was made stating that the company has made dubious transactions and you dont feel the need to enquire from its directors and members? she lashed out during the course of the hearing. The ED is investigating the possible involvement of Leaps and Bounds Private Limited, a company whose CEO is Abhishek and his parents as directors, in the states primary school teacher recruitment scam. We decided to question Abhisheks parents as both of them are the directors of the Pvt Ltd company. We will mention the outcome of their interrogation in our report which will submitted before the court, said an ED officer. Earlier this month, the ED summoned me on a day coinciding meeting of #INDIA in Delhi. I dutifully appeared and complied with the served summons. Now, today yet again they have served me another summons to appear before them on a day when the protest agitation for West Bengals rightful dues is scheduled in Delhi on 3rd Oct. This stark revelation unequivocally exposes those who are truly perturbED, rattlED, and scarED! Abhishek tweeted shortly after receiving the summons. Now, today yet again they have served me another summons to appear before them on a day when the protest agitation for West Bengal's rightful dues is scheduled in Delhi on 3rd Oct. This stark revelation unequivocally exposes those who are truly perturbED, rattlED and scarED! pic.twitter.com/ysAy3qhqOu Abhishek Banerjee (@abhishekaitc) September 28, 2023 The recruitment scam in schools already landed former education minister Partha Chatterjee and many other TMC functionaries behind bars. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. About 25 percent of the inspection operations conducted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) worldwide are related to Irans nuclear program, Vice President of Iran and Chief of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), Mohammad Eslami, Trend reports. The chief noted that Iran has 2 percent of the worlds nuclear facilities, which shows that Iran is subject to more inspections than other countries. Commenting on Iran's cancellation of the licenses of some inspectors of the IAEA, the vice president also said that Iran has cancelled the licenses of some IAEA inspectors for certain reasons, but this does not mean that Iran does not cooperate with the IAEA. He stressed that Irans cooperation with the agency is very significant. On September 16, 2023, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said that Iran revoked the license of one-third of the IAEA's main inspection team assigned to Iran. As reported, an agreement was reached between Iran and the IAEA in March 2023. Within the agreement, cooperation between the parties is underway. 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. Iran discloses various programs related to its nuclear industry to reflect that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. However, according to the information obtained by the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran has increased the amount of highly enriched uranium by 27 percent in the last three months, and currently, the country's enriched uranium reserves are 4,745 kilograms. This is 15 times more than the amount of uranium allowed for Iran in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). In discussions on the 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. --- Follow the author on X (Twitter):@BaghishovElnur Fayaz Wani By Express News Service SRINAGAR: A government school in the mountainous district of Kishtwar in Jammu and Kashmir has got its maiden space lab in the Union Territory. The lab is equipped with a high-tech telescope, an ISRO rocket and satellite demonstration models, drones, and aircraft. The first-of-its-kind space lab has been set up at Government Higher Secondary School for Boys at Kishtwar. The lab was inaugurated in the presence of Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, Devansh Yadav, and Chief Education Officer, Kishtwar, Prehlad Bhagat. Deputy Commissioner Yadav encouraged students to make the best use of the remarkable space lab. He emphasized the lab would not only foster a deeper understanding of space but also inspire students to consider careers in space sciences. This initiative is expected to ignite interest in astronomy-related activities at the school level, potentially guiding students towards careers in this fascinating field, he said. Students from classes 6-12 will have the opportunity to receive skill development training sessions from the lab. The space Lab has been developed under the ISRO space tutor program by Vyomika Space Academy. It is funded by the Directorate of Education Jammu. Vyomika Space Academy chief executive officer Govind Yadav briefed the gathering about detailed insights into the labs functionality and its potential to inspire and enhance students knowledge of space, science, and technology. The setting up of a space lab in a government school is a major leap in education technology and is bound to prove beneficial to students who want to excel in the field of science, space and technology, according to experts. The Vyomika Space Academy will host a state-level inter-school hydro rocket and astronomy workshop on October 15, in commemoration of the birth anniversary of former president A P J Abdul Kalam. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp SRINAGAR: A government school in the mountainous district of Kishtwar in Jammu and Kashmir has got its maiden space lab in the Union Territory. The lab is equipped with a high-tech telescope, an ISRO rocket and satellite demonstration models, drones, and aircraft. The first-of-its-kind space lab has been set up at Government Higher Secondary School for Boys at Kishtwar. The lab was inaugurated in the presence of Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, Devansh Yadav, and Chief Education Officer, Kishtwar, Prehlad Bhagat. Deputy Commissioner Yadav encouraged students to make the best use of the remarkable space lab. He emphasized the lab would not only foster a deeper understanding of space but also inspire students to consider careers in space sciences.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); This initiative is expected to ignite interest in astronomy-related activities at the school level, potentially guiding students towards careers in this fascinating field, he said. Students from classes 6-12 will have the opportunity to receive skill development training sessions from the lab. The space Lab has been developed under the ISRO space tutor program by Vyomika Space Academy. It is funded by the Directorate of Education Jammu. Vyomika Space Academy chief executive officer Govind Yadav briefed the gathering about detailed insights into the labs functionality and its potential to inspire and enhance students knowledge of space, science, and technology. The setting up of a space lab in a government school is a major leap in education technology and is bound to prove beneficial to students who want to excel in the field of science, space and technology, according to experts. The Vyomika Space Academy will host a state-level inter-school hydro rocket and astronomy workshop on October 15, in commemoration of the birth anniversary of former president A P J Abdul Kalam. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Dilip Singh Kshatriya By Express News Service AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat police seized a 'suspicious' boat and arrested five people, including three Iranian nationals and two Indian citizens from Tamil Nadu, near Okha in Gujarat's Devbhumi Dwarka district on Thursday. A satellite phone and drugs have also been recovered from the boat. According to an official police news release, The SOG got information that a suspicious watercraft was approaching the Signature Bridge in Okha. When they arrived at the location, a boat was approaching the shore in the dark. Three Iranian nationals and one Indian national were reported off the boat when it was intercepted and interrogated. These individuals arrived by boat from Iran. Coastal police officials with the accused | Express Police investigated the yacht and discovered a satellite phone and 10.02 grams of heroin worth Rs 5,01,000 in the international market from Mohammad Said Balochi, an Iranian national on board. The Okha Marine Police Station has registered cases under the NCPS Act, the Passport Act, and the Foreigners Act, said the statement. The police also caught hold of the brother of the Indian citizen travelling in the boat, who had reached Okha from Iran via Rajkot. According to primary information, the arrested Indian citizen, a resident of Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, had his passport seized by his employer in Iran. Without a passport, he chose to enter India illegally with the assistance of three Iranians. The boat that was seized by police in Gujarat Meanwhile, the Tamil man's brother flew directly from Muscat to Rajkot because he had a passport. According to the previous arrangement, the boat would arrive at Okha at the same time as the Tamil Nadu man's brother was there to receive him. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat police seized a 'suspicious' boat and arrested five people, including three Iranian nationals and two Indian citizens from Tamil Nadu, near Okha in Gujarat's Devbhumi Dwarka district on Thursday. A satellite phone and drugs have also been recovered from the boat. According to an official police news release, The SOG got information that a suspicious watercraft was approaching the Signature Bridge in Okha. When they arrived at the location, a boat was approaching the shore in the dark. Three Iranian nationals and one Indian national were reported off the boat when it was intercepted and interrogated. These individuals arrived by boat from Iran. Coastal police officials with the accused | Express Police investigated the yacht and discovered a satellite phone and 10.02 grams of heroin worth Rs 5,01,000 in the international market from Mohammad Said Balochi, an Iranian national on board. The Okha Marine Police Station has registered cases under the NCPS Act, the Passport Act, and the Foreigners Act, said the statement.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The police also caught hold of the brother of the Indian citizen travelling in the boat, who had reached Okha from Iran via Rajkot. According to primary information, the arrested Indian citizen, a resident of Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, had his passport seized by his employer in Iran. Without a passport, he chose to enter India illegally with the assistance of three Iranians. The boat that was seized by police in Gujarat Meanwhile, the Tamil man's brother flew directly from Muscat to Rajkot because he had a passport. According to the previous arrangement, the boat would arrive at Okha at the same time as the Tamil Nadu man's brother was there to receive him. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Dilip Singh Kshatriya By Express News Service AHMEDABAD: Gujarat Police confiscated 80 kg of heroin worth Rs 800 crore in the international market from the Kutch district's coastal area on Thursday. According to officials, the police acted immediately after receiving the information. The accused abandoned the drug and fled the scene. Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi Said on Social Media that Acting on information from the Kutch East Local Crime Branch (L.C.B.), a dedicated team intervened swiftly, intercepting a group of suspected individuals engaged in illegal drug trafficking on Mithirohar beach. This operation resulted in the successful confiscation of 80 kg of cocaine. #WATCH | Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi says "Today Gandhidham police seized 80 kgs of cocaine, which is worth about Rs 800 crore in the international market. I have congratulated the DGP and Gandhidham police for this success..." https://t.co/C4RgnwIjgR pic.twitter.com/gkpJS8KqVJ September 28, 2023 "Today Gandhidham police seized 80 kgs of cocaine, which is worth about Rs 800 crore in the international market. I have congratulated the DGP and Gandhidham police for this success...," he added. "Gujarat Police has seized 80 kg of drug from the coast, whose international market value is Rs 800 crore," said Sagar Bagmar, Superintendent of Police, Kutch East. As soon as the information was received, the police jumped into action, and the accused dropped the narcotic and fled the scene. The case is being further investigated," SP Bagmar remarked. #WATCH | Superintendent of Police, Kutch East, Sagar Bagmar says, "...Police recovered a large consignment of drugs, as per the primary investigation by FSL it has been found to be cocaine. A police investigation is underway. During the police investigation, it was found that https://t.co/C4RgnwIjgR pic.twitter.com/bjd4fO9vzM ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2023 According to data tabled in the state legislative Assembly in March 2023, "From August 2021 till February 2023, the Gujarat police seized nearly 1,000 kg of drugs worth over 5,300 crore and nabbed 102 accused persons, including 56 foreign nationals, Of these 56 foreign nationals, 44 were from Pakistan, seven from Iran, three from Afghanistan, and two from Nigeria." Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp AHMEDABAD: Gujarat Police confiscated 80 kg of heroin worth Rs 800 crore in the international market from the Kutch district's coastal area on Thursday. According to officials, the police acted immediately after receiving the information. The accused abandoned the drug and fled the scene. Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi Said on Social Media that Acting on information from the Kutch East Local Crime Branch (L.C.B.), a dedicated team intervened swiftly, intercepting a group of suspected individuals engaged in illegal drug trafficking on Mithirohar beach. This operation resulted in the successful confiscation of 80 kg of cocaine. #WATCH | Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi says "Today Gandhidham police seized 80 kgs of cocaine, which is worth about Rs 800 crore in the international market. I have congratulated the DGP and Gandhidham police for this success..." https://t.co/C4RgnwIjgR pic.twitter.com/gkpJS8KqVJgoogletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2023 "Today Gandhidham police seized 80 kgs of cocaine, which is worth about Rs 800 crore in the international market. I have congratulated the DGP and Gandhidham police for this success...," he added. "Gujarat Police has seized 80 kg of drug from the coast, whose international market value is Rs 800 crore," said Sagar Bagmar, Superintendent of Police, Kutch East. As soon as the information was received, the police jumped into action, and the accused dropped the narcotic and fled the scene. The case is being further investigated," SP Bagmar remarked. #WATCH | Superintendent of Police, Kutch East, Sagar Bagmar says, "...Police recovered a large consignment of drugs, as per the primary investigation by FSL it has been found to be cocaine. A police investigation is underway. During the police investigation, it was found that https://t.co/C4RgnwIjgR pic.twitter.com/bjd4fO9vzM ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2023 According to data tabled in the state legislative Assembly in March 2023, "From August 2021 till February 2023, the Gujarat police seized nearly 1,000 kg of drugs worth over 5,300 crore and nabbed 102 accused persons, including 56 foreign nationals, Of these 56 foreign nationals, 44 were from Pakistan, seven from Iran, three from Afghanistan, and two from Nigeria." Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By Online Desk Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar was in regular touch with the Canadian Security Intelligence Services (CSIS) and had allegedly met the intel officials days before he was murdered in June this year, his son has claimed as reported by CNN-News 18. Hardeep's 21-year-old son, Balraj Singh had also claimed that his father had been meeting CSIS officials since February this year and was also supposed to meet them two days after he was killed on 18 June. This statement has also led Indian Intelligence agencies to wonder as to why Nijjar wasn't provided close proximity protection since reliable intelligence was available against Indian agents. An intel source quoted by CNN-News 18 said that the decision to not provide Nijjar security showed that in some way, the Canadians also supported Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and gave access to Nijjars killers. The source added that ISI may have wanted to eliminate Nijjar to put India on the back foot. Rahat Rao and Tariq Kiyani are the two ISI agents planted in Canada and the duo may have been involved in the task of killing Nijjar, the source claimed. The source further quoted sources as saying that getting in close proximity to Nijjar was impossible without the help of someone known to him since he was very cautious and guarded. Rao and Kiyani might have wanted to finish off Nijjar so that they could directly control the drug and immigration business, the source told the media portal. READ MORE | FBI warns three prominent US Sikhs of 'danger' after Hardeep Nijjar's killing in Canada This news comes a few days after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau charged that the Indian government may be behind the killing, the accusation which has led to diplomatic tensions between the two nations. India denied the allegations made by Canada, calling it" motivated" and asked the latter to take legal action against anti-Indian elements operating from its soil instead. The accusation also sparked tit-for-tat retaliation, with each country expelling diplomats. India has also indefinitely suspended visa services in Canada, citing security threats to its officials. READ MORE | Who was Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the pro-Khalistan activist whose killing has strained Indo-Canada ties Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar was in regular touch with the Canadian Security Intelligence Services (CSIS) and had allegedly met the intel officials days before he was murdered in June this year, his son has claimed as reported by CNN-News 18. Hardeep's 21-year-old son, Balraj Singh had also claimed that his father had been meeting CSIS officials since February this year and was also supposed to meet them two days after he was killed on 18 June. This statement has also led Indian Intelligence agencies to wonder as to why Nijjar wasn't provided close proximity protection since reliable intelligence was available against Indian agents. googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); An intel source quoted by CNN-News 18 said that the decision to not provide Nijjar security showed that in some way, the Canadians also supported Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and gave access to Nijjars killers. The source added that ISI may have wanted to eliminate Nijjar to put India on the back foot. Rahat Rao and Tariq Kiyani are the two ISI agents planted in Canada and the duo may have been involved in the task of killing Nijjar, the source claimed. The source further quoted sources as saying that getting in close proximity to Nijjar was impossible without the help of someone known to him since he was very cautious and guarded. Rao and Kiyani might have wanted to finish off Nijjar so that they could directly control the drug and immigration business, the source told the media portal. READ MORE | FBI warns three prominent US Sikhs of 'danger' after Hardeep Nijjar's killing in Canada This news comes a few days after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau charged that the Indian government may be behind the killing, the accusation which has led to diplomatic tensions between the two nations. India denied the allegations made by Canada, calling it" motivated" and asked the latter to take legal action against anti-Indian elements operating from its soil instead. The accusation also sparked tit-for-tat retaliation, with each country expelling diplomats. India has also indefinitely suspended visa services in Canada, citing security threats to its officials. READ MORE | Who was Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the pro-Khalistan activist whose killing has strained Indo-Canada ties Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By Express News Service NEW DELHI: In the pursuit towards strengthening military-diplomatic ties, the Indian Army is conducting a unique Women Military Officers Course for women military officers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries and the Indian Army. The sources said, The Course being conducted from 18 to 29 Sep at Delhi is themed on the United Nations framework and designed as an empowering and collaborative training programme Photo credit: Special arrangement It underscores India and ASEANs shared commitment to foster greater international cooperation in support of enduring world peace while ensuring gender equality. The Event aligns with India's broader commitment to the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and the ADMM-Plus in fostering a stronger, more resilient and collaborative security fabric within the region under UN Charter. A lecture demonstration and Equipment display showcasing Nari Shakti and Atmanirbhar (Self-reliant) Bharat was organised for the participants on 25 September at the UN pre-deployment training area at New Delhi. The course is being organised under the aegis of the Ministry of Defence. It was in 2022 that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced initiatives by India for empowerment of women in the Armed Forces. ASEAN and India stand united and together for world peace. The ADMM Plus is an annual meeting of Defence Ministers of ten ASEAN countries and its eight dialogue partner countries, viz., India, USA, Russia, China, Australia, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea. The year 2022 marked the 30th Anniversary of India-ASEAN relations. India became the dialogue partner of ASEAN in 1992 and the inaugural ADMM-Plus was convened in Hanoi, Vietnam on October 12, 2010. Since 2017, ADMM-Plus Ministers have been meeting annually to further the dialogue and cooperation amongst ASEAN and the Plus countries. India and ASEAN have elevated their relationship to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in November 2022. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp NEW DELHI: In the pursuit towards strengthening military-diplomatic ties, the Indian Army is conducting a unique Women Military Officers Course for women military officers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries and the Indian Army. The sources said, The Course being conducted from 18 to 29 Sep at Delhi is themed on the United Nations framework and designed as an empowering and collaborative training programme Photo credit: Special arrangement It underscores India and ASEANs shared commitment to foster greater international cooperation in support of enduring world peace while ensuring gender equality.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The Event aligns with India's broader commitment to the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and the ADMM-Plus in fostering a stronger, more resilient and collaborative security fabric within the region under UN Charter. A lecture demonstration and Equipment display showcasing Nari Shakti and Atmanirbhar (Self-reliant) Bharat was organised for the participants on 25 September at the UN pre-deployment training area at New Delhi. The course is being organised under the aegis of the Ministry of Defence. It was in 2022 that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced initiatives by India for empowerment of women in the Armed Forces. ASEAN and India stand united and together for world peace. The ADMM Plus is an annual meeting of Defence Ministers of ten ASEAN countries and its eight dialogue partner countries, viz., India, USA, Russia, China, Australia, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea. The year 2022 marked the 30th Anniversary of India-ASEAN relations. India became the dialogue partner of ASEAN in 1992 and the inaugural ADMM-Plus was convened in Hanoi, Vietnam on October 12, 2010. Since 2017, ADMM-Plus Ministers have been meeting annually to further the dialogue and cooperation amongst ASEAN and the Plus countries. India and ASEAN have elevated their relationship to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in November 2022. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By Express News Service GUWAHATI: Meitei organization Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) on Thursday condemned the brutal assault on protesting students by personnel of Rapid Action Force (RAF) and security forces. A protest rally was taken out spontaneously in Manipur capital Imphal on Wednesday against the killing of two Meitei students Phijam Hemjit (20) and Linthoingambi Hijam (17). COCOMI felt the RAF personnel fired rubber bullets, tear gas shells, smoke bombs, and bullets, in which hundreds of students in uniform were injured with many sustaining critical injuries, as part of the paramilitary forces policy to wipe out all the Meiteis. Central forces flexing their muscle on students in uniform and pulling out people from their homes and thrashing them for protesting against the murder of innocent students is a cowardice and shameful act of the worlds largest democratic country India and a violation of human rights, COCOMI said in a statement. ALSO READ | Killings of two students trigger massive protest in Manipur, over 50 injured It hurts that India still doesnt take Meiteis as bonafide citizens of the country, the organization further said. It alleged that an RAF personnel could be heard in a viral video making a casteist remark. It demanded that Central and Manipur governments take action against the rogue personnel who used harsh language against the Meiteis. ALSO READ | Parents of murdered Meitei Manipuri youths request govt to locate kids' remains for last rites CRPF/RAF has already dismissed the charge. The voice in the alleged video clip is not of RAF personnel. It appears that the video maker has intentionally recorded casteist remarks in his own voice to tarnish the image of RAF troops, the rebuttal of CRPF/RAF, posted on X by Manipur police, read. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp GUWAHATI: Meitei organization Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) on Thursday condemned the brutal assault on protesting students by personnel of Rapid Action Force (RAF) and security forces. A protest rally was taken out spontaneously in Manipur capital Imphal on Wednesday against the killing of two Meitei students Phijam Hemjit (20) and Linthoingambi Hijam (17). COCOMI felt the RAF personnel fired rubber bullets, tear gas shells, smoke bombs, and bullets, in which hundreds of students in uniform were injured with many sustaining critical injuries, as part of the paramilitary forces policy to wipe out all the Meiteis.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Central forces flexing their muscle on students in uniform and pulling out people from their homes and thrashing them for protesting against the murder of innocent students is a cowardice and shameful act of the worlds largest democratic country India and a violation of human rights, COCOMI said in a statement. ALSO READ | Killings of two students trigger massive protest in Manipur, over 50 injured It hurts that India still doesnt take Meiteis as bonafide citizens of the country, the organization further said. It alleged that an RAF personnel could be heard in a viral video making a casteist remark. It demanded that Central and Manipur governments take action against the rogue personnel who used harsh language against the Meiteis. ALSO READ | Parents of murdered Meitei Manipuri youths request govt to locate kids' remains for last rites CRPF/RAF has already dismissed the charge. The voice in the alleged video clip is not of RAF personnel. It appears that the video maker has intentionally recorded casteist remarks in his own voice to tarnish the image of RAF troops, the rebuttal of CRPF/RAF, posted on X by Manipur police, read. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Rajesh Kumar Thakur By Express News Service NEW DELHI: After naming Union ministers as candidates in the upcoming Madhya Pradesh election, the BJP is learned to have decided to field more Central ministers and sitting MPs in polls in different states. The objective is to create space for new faces for Lok Sabha polls. By fielding three Union ministers in Madhya Pradesh, the BJP has dropped a signal that it may field senior and experienced leaders who, apart from the national level, have a good hold on the politics of their respective states. The best way to utilise their experiences of electoral politics is bring them into the fray for assembly elections in other states also. The party finds a merit in it and may most probably go the way it has gone for MP assembly election, said a senior party functionary. The assembly election in Congress-ruled Rajasthan has become a matter of challenge to for the BJP this time. The names of some Union ministers and sitting MPs are doing the rounds. They may be tasked to contest the upcoming assembly election. Notably, many of them have a good hold on their respective districts, said a BJP source. It is speculated that Union ministers Arjun Ram Meghwal and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat may be fielded in Rajasthan this time as both of them have political influence across the state. Meghwal represents the Bikaner LS constituency and has a strong hold among a major chunk of voters belonging to his community. There is also the possibility that the party may ask him to head the government if it is voted to power, on the basis of his political experience. He is a bureaucrat-turned-politician and knows well the states political and administrative strengths and weaknesses, said a source. Shekhawat, MP from Jodhpur LS seat, is considered a smart strategist for the assembly elections with good public connect. He is experienced and in state politics now. Involvement of experienced politicians like him has become the need of the hour, a leader hinted. Union minister Renuka Singh, who holds deep connections in the tribal community, may be told to contest in Chhattisgarh. According to sources, 7-9 sitting MPs, three of them ministers in Modi's cabinet, are being considered to be fielded from Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. Union ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw, Arjun Munda, RK Singh, Giriraj Singh, Ashwini Choubey, Darshana Jardosh, Bhupendra Yadav, SP Singh Baghel, V Muraleedharan and Kiren Rijiju, as well as Kailash Choudhary, the MP from Rajasthans Barmer seat, are some other leaders who may be contesting the assembly elections in different states. Ramesh Bidhuri in-charge of Tonk seat in Raj South Delhi BJP Ramesh Bidhuri, who recently made headlines for allegedly using abusive words against BSP MP Danish Ali in the Lok Sabha, has now been assigned as the partys election in-charge in Rajasthans Tonk assembly constituency. His appointment comes amidst speculation that the Congress party is considering to field Sachin Pilot from the same seat. Arjun Ram Meghwal Represents Bikaner LS constituency and has a strong hold with a major chunk of voters belonging to his community Renuka Singh The Union minister from the Surguja seat from Chhattisgarh holds deep connect with tribal community Gajendra Singh Shekhawat The MP from Jodhpur LS seat, is seen as a smart strategist for assembly polls with good public connect Arjun Munda The Union minister from Khunti constituency of Jharkhand is one of the most vocal party leaders Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp NEW DELHI: After naming Union ministers as candidates in the upcoming Madhya Pradesh election, the BJP is learned to have decided to field more Central ministers and sitting MPs in polls in different states. The objective is to create space for new faces for Lok Sabha polls. By fielding three Union ministers in Madhya Pradesh, the BJP has dropped a signal that it may field senior and experienced leaders who, apart from the national level, have a good hold on the politics of their respective states. The best way to utilise their experiences of electoral politics is bring them into the fray for assembly elections in other states also. The party finds a merit in it and may most probably go the way it has gone for MP assembly election, said a senior party functionary.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The assembly election in Congress-ruled Rajasthan has become a matter of challenge to for the BJP this time. The names of some Union ministers and sitting MPs are doing the rounds. They may be tasked to contest the upcoming assembly election. Notably, many of them have a good hold on their respective districts, said a BJP source. It is speculated that Union ministers Arjun Ram Meghwal and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat may be fielded in Rajasthan this time as both of them have political influence across the state. Meghwal represents the Bikaner LS constituency and has a strong hold among a major chunk of voters belonging to his community. There is also the possibility that the party may ask him to head the government if it is voted to power, on the basis of his political experience. He is a bureaucrat-turned-politician and knows well the states political and administrative strengths and weaknesses, said a source. Shekhawat, MP from Jodhpur LS seat, is considered a smart strategist for the assembly elections with good public connect. He is experienced and in state politics now. Involvement of experienced politicians like him has become the need of the hour, a leader hinted. Union minister Renuka Singh, who holds deep connections in the tribal community, may be told to contest in Chhattisgarh. According to sources, 7-9 sitting MPs, three of them ministers in Modi's cabinet, are being considered to be fielded from Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. Union ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw, Arjun Munda, RK Singh, Giriraj Singh, Ashwini Choubey, Darshana Jardosh, Bhupendra Yadav, SP Singh Baghel, V Muraleedharan and Kiren Rijiju, as well as Kailash Choudhary, the MP from Rajasthans Barmer seat, are some other leaders who may be contesting the assembly elections in different states. Ramesh Bidhuri in-charge of Tonk seat in Raj South Delhi BJP Ramesh Bidhuri, who recently made headlines for allegedly using abusive words against BSP MP Danish Ali in the Lok Sabha, has now been assigned as the partys election in-charge in Rajasthans Tonk assembly constituency. His appointment comes amidst speculation that the Congress party is considering to field Sachin Pilot from the same seat. Arjun Ram Meghwal Represents Bikaner LS constituency and has a strong hold with a major chunk of voters belonging to his community Renuka Singh The Union minister from the Surguja seat from Chhattisgarh holds deep connect with tribal community Gajendra Singh Shekhawat The MP from Jodhpur LS seat, is seen as a smart strategist for assembly polls with good public connect Arjun Munda The Union minister from Khunti constituency of Jharkhand is one of the most vocal party leaders Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Parvez Sultan By Express News Service NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has fixed an ambitious target of making its entire network of national highways potholes-free by the end of December. To achieve the goal-- ensuring quality maintenance and timely repair of roads, the ministry is likely to introduce new arrangements for awarding contracts for their regular upkeep. Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Thursday said that the ministry is on the verge of finalizing a policy to hand over small stretches to independent civil engineers for regular monitoring and keep national highways well-maintained and release of remuneration would be connected to their performance. As PWD minister, I launched a scheme under which the civil engineers holding diplomas or degrees were given the task (road maintenance) of Rs 15 lakh based on estimated cost without tenders. The scheme was successful. On similar lines, we are working on a proposal for national highways. 100 kilometers of road length will be given to civil engineers. In case, a pothole is seen, they will get less remuneration, said Gadkari. Gadkari was responding to the questions during a press briefing in the national capital. Addressing Press Conference, New Delhi https://t.co/GT5NQrIh4S Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) September 28, 2023 Simultaneously, the ministry is set to initiate a safety audit of roads-- under the jurisdiction of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI)-- for which it will rope in students of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and engineering colleges. Once findings are available, it will begin corrective measures to make commuting on highways safer. The secretary, MoRTH Anurag Jain further explained that all roads are being mapped and the ministry is working on arrangements that all roads should be under some maintenance contracts. Almost all contracts are about to come into force. The minister had a meeting on September 04 on this. Discussions were held with all regional officers. The Internal target is fixed. By December, there should be no pothole on any of the national highways, he said. According to the secretary, the ministry has created two kinds of contracts; performance-based maintenance contracts and short-term maintenance contracts. Out of a total network of 1.40 lakh kilometers, one lakh kilometers are well-maintained under some contracts. For the remaining length, there was no maintenance contract so two arrangements have been made....if the defect liability period of the road built in engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) mode has ended and we dont need to touch the road for another 10-15 years, we have opted for performance-based contracts. We need to have five-year contracts. If the road needs to be repaired in the next one or two years then we have chosen short-term contracts. Both schemes are in the final stage and we will launch them soon, said Jain. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has fixed an ambitious target of making its entire network of national highways potholes-free by the end of December. To achieve the goal-- ensuring quality maintenance and timely repair of roads, the ministry is likely to introduce new arrangements for awarding contracts for their regular upkeep. Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Thursday said that the ministry is on the verge of finalizing a policy to hand over small stretches to independent civil engineers for regular monitoring and keep national highways well-maintained and release of remuneration would be connected to their performance. As PWD minister, I launched a scheme under which the civil engineers holding diplomas or degrees were given the task (road maintenance) of Rs 15 lakh based on estimated cost without tenders. The scheme was successful. On similar lines, we are working on a proposal for national highways. 100 kilometers of road length will be given to civil engineers. In case, a pothole is seen, they will get less remuneration, said Gadkari.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Gadkari was responding to the questions during a press briefing in the national capital. Addressing Press Conference, New Delhihttps://t.co/GT5NQrIh4S Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) September 28, 2023 Simultaneously, the ministry is set to initiate a safety audit of roads-- under the jurisdiction of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI)-- for which it will rope in students of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and engineering colleges. Once findings are available, it will begin corrective measures to make commuting on highways safer. The secretary, MoRTH Anurag Jain further explained that all roads are being mapped and the ministry is working on arrangements that all roads should be under some maintenance contracts. Almost all contracts are about to come into force. The minister had a meeting on September 04 on this. Discussions were held with all regional officers. The Internal target is fixed. By December, there should be no pothole on any of the national highways, he said. According to the secretary, the ministry has created two kinds of contracts; performance-based maintenance contracts and short-term maintenance contracts. Out of a total network of 1.40 lakh kilometers, one lakh kilometers are well-maintained under some contracts. For the remaining length, there was no maintenance contract so two arrangements have been made....if the defect liability period of the road built in engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) mode has ended and we dont need to touch the road for another 10-15 years, we have opted for performance-based contracts. We need to have five-year contracts. If the road needs to be repaired in the next one or two years then we have chosen short-term contracts. Both schemes are in the final stage and we will launch them soon, said Jain. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Express News Service NEW DELHI: The National Medical Commission (NMC) has refused to share the details of private medical colleges that paid stipends to medical students and then took it back, in reply to a Right to Information (RTI) application. Kerala-based ophthalmologist and activist Dr KV Babu, who filed the RTI application, said, I had asked for names and lists of private medical colleges in India, which gave stipends to medical students, which was later taken back by the management. I got the RTI reply on Wednesday. The NMC declined the information, saying that third-party information cannot be given under Section 8 of RTI Act, 2005. The NMC surveyed undergraduates and postgraduate medical students in India as directed by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in the last week of April and the first week of May. The NHRC took up the matter following a Kerala students complaint that the stipend given to MBBS interns is inadequate and in violation of government order. The NMC had informed the NHRC that they would submit a detailed survey report later. In its advisory on payment of stipends to PG medical students on August 24, NMC said data on 7,901 PG students from 213 self-financed or private medical colleges spread across 19 states showed that 16 per cent of PG students have to return the stipend money to college management. However, it did not name the private medical colleges. In his RTI application dated August 28, Dr Babu asked the NMC to name the private medical colleges that paid stipends to 1,228 students, but the management took it back. It is clear from the public notice dated August 24 regarding the survey among PG doctors that almost 8,000 PG doctors are not paid stipulated stipends. Of the total numbers, 1,228 PG doctors were paid stipends, but the management took it back, he told this paper. The managements of those private medical colleges are cheating the NMC, students and the public. Instead of disclosing their names on the website, the NMC is stonewalling RTI applications. It is clear that the NMC is trying to protect the private medical college managements, he said. Babu said he had also asked for the copies of the notice issued by the NMC to the colleges that violated the regulations. I had also asked for the status of the recognition of PG courses of those courses of the colleges. They should have at least shared the copies of the notice and action taken, he said. As per Regulation 13 of Post Graduate Medical Education Regulation, 2000, The PG students of the institutions located in various states/UTs shall be paid remuneration at par with the remuneration being paid to the PG students of state government medical institutions/Central government medical institutions, in the state/UT in which the institution is located. ERRATIC PAYMENTS The NMC survey showed that of the over 7,000 PG students, over 2,000 were not receiving stipends, while 4,288 said that the compensation being paid is not equal to the stipend being paid in government medical colleges The stipend for PG students varies from one state medical hospital to another. It ranges from Rs 45,000-Rs 95,000 Private medical hospitals give PG students even less than Rs 25,000. Some even produce them in instalments Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp NEW DELHI: The National Medical Commission (NMC) has refused to share the details of private medical colleges that paid stipends to medical students and then took it back, in reply to a Right to Information (RTI) application. Kerala-based ophthalmologist and activist Dr KV Babu, who filed the RTI application, said, I had asked for names and lists of private medical colleges in India, which gave stipends to medical students, which was later taken back by the management. I got the RTI reply on Wednesday. The NMC declined the information, saying that third-party information cannot be given under Section 8 of RTI Act, 2005. The NMC surveyed undergraduates and postgraduate medical students in India as directed by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in the last week of April and the first week of May.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The NHRC took up the matter following a Kerala students complaint that the stipend given to MBBS interns is inadequate and in violation of government order. The NMC had informed the NHRC that they would submit a detailed survey report later. In its advisory on payment of stipends to PG medical students on August 24, NMC said data on 7,901 PG students from 213 self-financed or private medical colleges spread across 19 states showed that 16 per cent of PG students have to return the stipend money to college management. However, it did not name the private medical colleges. In his RTI application dated August 28, Dr Babu asked the NMC to name the private medical colleges that paid stipends to 1,228 students, but the management took it back. It is clear from the public notice dated August 24 regarding the survey among PG doctors that almost 8,000 PG doctors are not paid stipulated stipends. Of the total numbers, 1,228 PG doctors were paid stipends, but the management took it back, he told this paper. The managements of those private medical colleges are cheating the NMC, students and the public. Instead of disclosing their names on the website, the NMC is stonewalling RTI applications. It is clear that the NMC is trying to protect the private medical college managements, he said. Babu said he had also asked for the copies of the notice issued by the NMC to the colleges that violated the regulations. I had also asked for the status of the recognition of PG courses of those courses of the colleges. They should have at least shared the copies of the notice and action taken, he said. As per Regulation 13 of Post Graduate Medical Education Regulation, 2000, The PG students of the institutions located in various states/UTs shall be paid remuneration at par with the remuneration being paid to the PG students of state government medical institutions/Central government medical institutions, in the state/UT in which the institution is located. ERRATIC PAYMENTS The NMC survey showed that of the over 7,000 PG students, over 2,000 were not receiving stipends, while 4,288 said that the compensation being paid is not equal to the stipend being paid in government medical colleges The stipend for PG students varies from one state medical hospital to another. It ranges from Rs 45,000-Rs 95,000 Private medical hospitals give PG students even less than Rs 25,000. Some even produce them in instalments Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Yeshi Seli By Express News Service NEW DELHI: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, during a Council on Foreign Relations event in New York on Tuesday, criticised the Canadian government for its lack of action against terrorists and extremists. Canada has been plagued by organised crime associated with secessionist groups and violent extremism, he pointed out and expressed Indias deep concern, attributing this permissiveness to political motivations. Jaishankar highlighted the grave situation by mentioning threats faced by Indian diplomats. The EAM accused Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus government of failing to take any decisive measures against terrorists and extremists residing in Canada. He insinuated that this inaction was due to political convenience, alluding to the ongoing controversy around killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Regarding intelligence related to Nijjars death, Jaishankar refrained from making any comments, stating, Ill share with you what we conveyed to the Canadians. Firstly, this does not reflect the policy of the Government of India. Secondly, we informed the Canadians that if they possess specific and relevant information, they should share it with us. We are open to examination. The minister urged the United Nations to undergo reform, emphasising the importance of listening to a broader range of countries. He cautioned against allowing political convenience to dictate responses to terrorism and violence. When questioned about Manipur, Jaishankar assured that efforts were underway to restore normalcy to the region. ALSO READ | Jaishankar asks UN members not to let 'political convenience' determine responses to terrorism, extremism Underscoring the necessity for India and the US to collaborate to safeguard their respective interests, he observed that the Global South currently harbours skepticism towards the Global North. Jaishankar mentioned that India is actively seeking investment and technology partnerships while maintaining its own terms and conditions. The external affairs minister also drew attention to Chinas expanding navy, particularly its increased presence in ports like Gwadhar and Hambantota, and the growing activity in the Indian Ocean. READ MORE | FBI warns three prominent US Sikhs of 'danger' after Hardeep Nijjar's killing in Canada Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp NEW DELHI: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, during a Council on Foreign Relations event in New York on Tuesday, criticised the Canadian government for its lack of action against terrorists and extremists. Canada has been plagued by organised crime associated with secessionist groups and violent extremism, he pointed out and expressed Indias deep concern, attributing this permissiveness to political motivations. Jaishankar highlighted the grave situation by mentioning threats faced by Indian diplomats.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The EAM accused Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus government of failing to take any decisive measures against terrorists and extremists residing in Canada. He insinuated that this inaction was due to political convenience, alluding to the ongoing controversy around killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Regarding intelligence related to Nijjars death, Jaishankar refrained from making any comments, stating, Ill share with you what we conveyed to the Canadians. Firstly, this does not reflect the policy of the Government of India. Secondly, we informed the Canadians that if they possess specific and relevant information, they should share it with us. We are open to examination. The minister urged the United Nations to undergo reform, emphasising the importance of listening to a broader range of countries. He cautioned against allowing political convenience to dictate responses to terrorism and violence. When questioned about Manipur, Jaishankar assured that efforts were underway to restore normalcy to the region. ALSO READ | Jaishankar asks UN members not to let 'political convenience' determine responses to terrorism, extremism Underscoring the necessity for India and the US to collaborate to safeguard their respective interests, he observed that the Global South currently harbours skepticism towards the Global North. Jaishankar mentioned that India is actively seeking investment and technology partnerships while maintaining its own terms and conditions. The external affairs minister also drew attention to Chinas expanding navy, particularly its increased presence in ports like Gwadhar and Hambantota, and the growing activity in the Indian Ocean. READ MORE | FBI warns three prominent US Sikhs of 'danger' after Hardeep Nijjar's killing in Canada Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. In Istanbul, an explosion occurred in a building located in Turkiye's Bahcelievler district, Trend reports. The blast wave smashed windows in adjacent buildings. The Governor of Istanbul, Davut Gul, said that an investigation of the incident had begun. The cause of the explosion, which occurred on the top floor of a 6-storey building, was a natural gas leak. As a result, one person was killed and four were injured. In addition, two of the injured are in serious condition. Namita Bajpai By Express News Service LUCKNOW: In a major breakthrough, one of the most wanted members of the Atiq Ahmad gang Abdul Saddam was arrested by the special task force (STF) of the Uttar Pradesh police in Delhi's Malviya Nagar locality in the wee hours on Thursday. Saddam was wanted in connection with the murder of Umesh Pal, the lawyer who was killed by Atiq's gang in Prayagraj in February. The UP STF nabbed Saddam in Delhi when he went to meet his girlfriend on Thursday. Saddam is the brother of Zainab, Ashrafs wife. Ashraf was killed along with gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmad while they were being taken to hospital for a routine check-up in police custody in Prayagraj in April. Saddam had played an instrumental role in hatching the conspiracy of the murder of lawyer Umesh Pal. As per police sources, Saddam had facilitated the meeting between Ashraf and Umesh Pal's assailants in Bareilly jail where Ashraf was lodged. Saddam, an active member of the Atiq gang, has two cases registered against him in Bareilly. One case was registered at Bithari Chainpur police station for the illegal meeting with Ashraf and the other at Baradari police station for fraudulently taking a house and theft. Saddam had been on the run in both cases and the ADG Bareilly zone had announced a reward of Rs 1 lakh on him. ALSO READ | Two women constables seek permission for sex change, leave UP police in tricky situation According to Special DG (SDG) (Law and Order), Prashant Kumar, Abdul Saddam was apprehended at approximately 2 am from a DDA apartment located across the Select City Walk mall in Delhis Malviya Nagar while he was visiting his girlfriend Anam. Recently, Bithari Chainpur police had started the process of attachment of Saddams properties and pasted a notice under Section 82 at his house in Prayagraj. Along with this, police teams were constantly engaged in tracking his location. On Thursday, the Bareilly unit of the STF got success in netting the criminal in Delhis Malviya Nagar area. He was taken to Bareilly. During the interrogation, Abdul Saddam informed the STF that he had been shifting locations in Delhi, Karnataka and Maharashtra to avoid arrest. A police official mentioned that he had resided in Khusbhu Enclave, Bareilly, at the time his sisters husband Ashraf was incarcerated in Bareilly jail. Recently, images of Abdul Saddam in Dubai had surfaced, leading to speculation that he had fled the country. However, according to police, those photos were older ones and Saddam had deliberately uploaded them on social media to mislead the police authorities. He had been residing in Delhi for an extended period by constantly shifting locations. Subsequently, based on intelligence inputs, the STF arrested him in the national capital. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp LUCKNOW: In a major breakthrough, one of the most wanted members of the Atiq Ahmad gang Abdul Saddam was arrested by the special task force (STF) of the Uttar Pradesh police in Delhi's Malviya Nagar locality in the wee hours on Thursday. Saddam was wanted in connection with the murder of Umesh Pal, the lawyer who was killed by Atiq's gang in Prayagraj in February. The UP STF nabbed Saddam in Delhi when he went to meet his girlfriend on Thursday. Saddam is the brother of Zainab, Ashrafs wife. Ashraf was killed along with gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmad while they were being taken to hospital for a routine check-up in police custody in Prayagraj in April. Saddam had played an instrumental role in hatching the conspiracy of the murder of lawyer Umesh Pal. As per police sources, Saddam had facilitated the meeting between Ashraf and Umesh Pal's assailants in Bareilly jail where Ashraf was lodged.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Saddam, an active member of the Atiq gang, has two cases registered against him in Bareilly. One case was registered at Bithari Chainpur police station for the illegal meeting with Ashraf and the other at Baradari police station for fraudulently taking a house and theft. Saddam had been on the run in both cases and the ADG Bareilly zone had announced a reward of Rs 1 lakh on him. ALSO READ | Two women constables seek permission for sex change, leave UP police in tricky situation According to Special DG (SDG) (Law and Order), Prashant Kumar, Abdul Saddam was apprehended at approximately 2 am from a DDA apartment located across the Select City Walk mall in Delhis Malviya Nagar while he was visiting his girlfriend Anam. Recently, Bithari Chainpur police had started the process of attachment of Saddams properties and pasted a notice under Section 82 at his house in Prayagraj. Along with this, police teams were constantly engaged in tracking his location. On Thursday, the Bareilly unit of the STF got success in netting the criminal in Delhis Malviya Nagar area. He was taken to Bareilly. During the interrogation, Abdul Saddam informed the STF that he had been shifting locations in Delhi, Karnataka and Maharashtra to avoid arrest. A police official mentioned that he had resided in Khusbhu Enclave, Bareilly, at the time his sisters husband Ashraf was incarcerated in Bareilly jail. Recently, images of Abdul Saddam in Dubai had surfaced, leading to speculation that he had fled the country. However, according to police, those photos were older ones and Saddam had deliberately uploaded them on social media to mislead the police authorities. He had been residing in Delhi for an extended period by constantly shifting locations. Subsequently, based on intelligence inputs, the STF arrested him in the national capital. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Shruti Kakkar By Express News Service NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Wednesday stayed defamation proceedings against Union Minister of State in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal husbandry and Dairy L Murugan at the instance of former MP and DMK leader RS Bharathi for Murugans reported derogatory statements against the DMK-affiliated Murasoli Trust. The trust had filed a private complaint against the ministers remarks made in a press meet alleging that the Trust was being run on Panchami land (land that is distributed to Dalits in Tamil Nadu). A bench of Justices BR Gavai and PK Mishra in their order said, By way of ad interim order, there shall be a stay of further proceedings pending before the Assistant Sessions Judge Additional Special Court for Trial of Cases related to MPs and MLAs of Tamil Nadu, till the next date of hearing. The court also sought Murasoli Trusts response to Murugans plea challenging the Madras High Court's September 5, 2023 order refusing to quash the case. Justice Anand Venkatesh noted that in cases of defamation, the statements had to be tested only from the point of view of the common prudent man and that the statements put forward by the minister would be understood as questioning the right and title of the property. In its order, the court said, Even if the petitioner thinks that he had merely put a question, such statements will be understood as if he is questioning the right of the property, over which, the Trust is functioning and he wants to drive home the point that it is functioning in the panchami land. That is how the respondent has understood the statements. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Wednesday stayed defamation proceedings against Union Minister of State in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal husbandry and Dairy L Murugan at the instance of former MP and DMK leader RS Bharathi for Murugans reported derogatory statements against the DMK-affiliated Murasoli Trust. The trust had filed a private complaint against the ministers remarks made in a press meet alleging that the Trust was being run on Panchami land (land that is distributed to Dalits in Tamil Nadu). A bench of Justices BR Gavai and PK Mishra in their order said, By way of ad interim order, there shall be a stay of further proceedings pending before the Assistant Sessions Judge Additional Special Court for Trial of Cases related to MPs and MLAs of Tamil Nadu, till the next date of hearing.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The court also sought Murasoli Trusts response to Murugans plea challenging the Madras High Court's September 5, 2023 order refusing to quash the case. Justice Anand Venkatesh noted that in cases of defamation, the statements had to be tested only from the point of view of the common prudent man and that the statements put forward by the minister would be understood as questioning the right and title of the property. In its order, the court said, Even if the petitioner thinks that he had merely put a question, such statements will be understood as if he is questioning the right of the property, over which, the Trust is functioning and he wants to drive home the point that it is functioning in the panchami land. That is how the respondent has understood the statements. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Namita Bajpai By Express News Service LUCKNOW: In a remarkable feat, all 95,767 villages of Uttar Pradesh have attained Open Defecation Free (ODF) Plus status during the second phase of the Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin), marking a cent per cent achievement rate for the state. An ODF Plus village is one that besides getting Open Defecation-Free (ODF) status, also implements solid or liquid waste management systems. So far, 4.4 lakh (75%) villages across the country have declared themselves ODF Plus, a significant step towards achieving the targets of SBM-G Phase 2 by 202425. In UP, only 15,088 villages were declared ODF Plus till January 1, 2023. However, within the span of just 9 months, the state made efforts to achieve ODF Plus status in a mission mode and over 80,000 villages successfully achieved ODF Plus status. Out of 95,767 ODF Plus villages in the state, 81,744 villages are ODF Plus aspirational villages, where the system of either solid waste management or liquid waste management is in place. Another 10,217 villages are ODF Plus rising villages with both solid waste management and liquid waste management in place and the rest of the 3,806 villages are ODF Plus Model Villages. The achievement came through during the Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2023 campaign being run across the country. SHS is celebrated annually from September 15 to October 2 under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Rural), Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti. In 2023, over 88 lakh people participated and contributed to Shramdaan on a large scale, thereby accelerating the achievement of ODF Plus status. As a result of ODF Plus achievement, those Gram Panchayats were felicitated who did exemplary work and declared their Gram Panchayats as ODF Plus models. Gram Pradhans, Gram Panchayat Secretaries, Panchayat Assistants, and sanitation workers across the state were honoured at the state level and motivated to contribute further to the Swachh Bharat Mission (Rural). The award winners include the 60 best Gram Panchayats for their contribution to making Gram Panchayat a model and 75 sanitation workers (one from each of the 75 districts) were also honoured for their contribution. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp LUCKNOW: In a remarkable feat, all 95,767 villages of Uttar Pradesh have attained Open Defecation Free (ODF) Plus status during the second phase of the Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin), marking a cent per cent achievement rate for the state. An ODF Plus village is one that besides getting Open Defecation-Free (ODF) status, also implements solid or liquid waste management systems. So far, 4.4 lakh (75%) villages across the country have declared themselves ODF Plus, a significant step towards achieving the targets of SBM-G Phase 2 by 202425. In UP, only 15,088 villages were declared ODF Plus till January 1, 2023. However, within the span of just 9 months, the state made efforts to achieve ODF Plus status in a mission mode and over 80,000 villages successfully achieved ODF Plus status.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Out of 95,767 ODF Plus villages in the state, 81,744 villages are ODF Plus aspirational villages, where the system of either solid waste management or liquid waste management is in place. Another 10,217 villages are ODF Plus rising villages with both solid waste management and liquid waste management in place and the rest of the 3,806 villages are ODF Plus Model Villages. The achievement came through during the Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2023 campaign being run across the country. SHS is celebrated annually from September 15 to October 2 under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Rural), Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti. In 2023, over 88 lakh people participated and contributed to Shramdaan on a large scale, thereby accelerating the achievement of ODF Plus status. As a result of ODF Plus achievement, those Gram Panchayats were felicitated who did exemplary work and declared their Gram Panchayats as ODF Plus models. Gram Pradhans, Gram Panchayat Secretaries, Panchayat Assistants, and sanitation workers across the state were honoured at the state level and motivated to contribute further to the Swachh Bharat Mission (Rural). The award winners include the 60 best Gram Panchayats for their contribution to making Gram Panchayat a model and 75 sanitation workers (one from each of the 75 districts) were also honoured for their contribution. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By PTI HYDERABAD: Ruling BRS MLC in Telangana K Kavitha on Thursday alleged that the Women's Reservation Bill passed in Parliament is like a post-dated cheque, with no clarity on when it is going to be implemented. Insisting that women should be given 33 per cent reservation in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies immediately, as per the bill passed in both houses of Parliament, Kavitha accused the NDA government at the Centre of not implementing it despite being able to do so. "So, it's a very clear sign and signal to the women of this country that passing the Women's Reservation Bill is like giving a post-dated cheque. We have signed the cheque. The amount is written but we do not know when you can cash it. There is no point or purpose to this whole exercise. It just looks like tokenism to me," she told PTI video service here in an interview. Yet, the passage of the bill is a good gesture that should be celebrated, she said. On the demand for reservation for OBC women in the women's bill, she said the OBCs should get a 33 per cent share in Parliament and state assemblies to begin with, and once OBC reservation is given, it will automatically reflect for OBC women as well. Asked if the winnability factor is cited to stop representation for women, she replied in the affirmative and said more efforts are needed to enhance representation for women and other sections of society in the political system. Kavitha, who is the founder of 'Bharat Jagruti', a cultural organisation, said she is keen on taking up workshops on leadership across the country to prepare women for roles at the helm. Asked if she would convince her party BRS to ensure adequate representation of women, she, however, replied in the negative. "I am a very small first-time MP and first-time MLC kind of junior leader. So, nobody can convince the parties. Wasn't Indira Gandhi an important voice in the party? Wasn't Sonia Gandhi the only voice in the party. The issue here is you need to give policy protection to the vulnerable section of the society which starts from women," she said. It could be upper-class women, OBC women, Dalit or Adivasi women but women need policy protection, she said. How soon the women's reservation legislation can be implemented and provide representation to OBC women is a larger fight, she said. On parties like BJP questioning BRS on its friendship with AIMIM which was the sole opposer of women's reservation in Parliament, she said BRS and AIMIM are "friendly parties" and they have never been alliance partners. The AIMIM is entitled to have its views, she said. The party's opposition did not stop the women's reservation bill, she added. Asked if she saw Congress's momentum picking up in Telangana ahead of the Legislative Assembly elections, Kavitha, daughter of Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, expressed confidence that the people would support the BRS having seen the rapid pace of development in the state. She said the BRS would come back to power in the coming elections as Telangana has witnessed transformative changes during the BRS regime. She alleged that Congress could not ensure basic needs like supply of drinking water and irrigation during its long rule in undivided Andhra Pradesh. The BRS government worked for the people despite the Centre not supporting it, she claimed. Referring to the Cauvery water row between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, she asked why Congress cannot make the chief ministers of the two states sit together and solve the issue forever as DMK is its partner in the INDIA alliance. Asked about the allegations against her in the Delhi excise policy case, she said it is the "modus operandi" of the BJP. "There is nothing special about Kavitha. It is just that Telangana is going to an election, so they have to trouble BRS as a party," she said, speaking about the Enforcement Directorate questioning her in the case. Not only she, but many other leaders of BRS are being "targeted" as well, she claimed. Asked about her stance on the 'India-Bharat' debate, she said they are non-issues. The names 'India' and 'Bharat' have been loved and used interchangeably and both the names are equally important, she said. "Just because the opposition comes together and calls themselves INDIA, the BJP gets scared and they want to call the whole country with a different name. They are taking their insecurities to the next level," she said. Asked about the stance of BRS on the Uniform Civil Code, she reiterated her party's opposition to it Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp HYDERABAD: Ruling BRS MLC in Telangana K Kavitha on Thursday alleged that the Women's Reservation Bill passed in Parliament is like a post-dated cheque, with no clarity on when it is going to be implemented. Insisting that women should be given 33 per cent reservation in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies immediately, as per the bill passed in both houses of Parliament, Kavitha accused the NDA government at the Centre of not implementing it despite being able to do so. "So, it's a very clear sign and signal to the women of this country that passing the Women's Reservation Bill is like giving a post-dated cheque. We have signed the cheque. The amount is written but we do not know when you can cash it. There is no point or purpose to this whole exercise. It just looks like tokenism to me," she told PTI video service here in an interview.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Yet, the passage of the bill is a good gesture that should be celebrated, she said. On the demand for reservation for OBC women in the women's bill, she said the OBCs should get a 33 per cent share in Parliament and state assemblies to begin with, and once OBC reservation is given, it will automatically reflect for OBC women as well. Asked if the winnability factor is cited to stop representation for women, she replied in the affirmative and said more efforts are needed to enhance representation for women and other sections of society in the political system. Kavitha, who is the founder of 'Bharat Jagruti', a cultural organisation, said she is keen on taking up workshops on leadership across the country to prepare women for roles at the helm. Asked if she would convince her party BRS to ensure adequate representation of women, she, however, replied in the negative. "I am a very small first-time MP and first-time MLC kind of junior leader. So, nobody can convince the parties. Wasn't Indira Gandhi an important voice in the party? Wasn't Sonia Gandhi the only voice in the party. The issue here is you need to give policy protection to the vulnerable section of the society which starts from women," she said. It could be upper-class women, OBC women, Dalit or Adivasi women but women need policy protection, she said. How soon the women's reservation legislation can be implemented and provide representation to OBC women is a larger fight, she said. On parties like BJP questioning BRS on its friendship with AIMIM which was the sole opposer of women's reservation in Parliament, she said BRS and AIMIM are "friendly parties" and they have never been alliance partners. The AIMIM is entitled to have its views, she said. The party's opposition did not stop the women's reservation bill, she added. Asked if she saw Congress's momentum picking up in Telangana ahead of the Legislative Assembly elections, Kavitha, daughter of Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, expressed confidence that the people would support the BRS having seen the rapid pace of development in the state. She said the BRS would come back to power in the coming elections as Telangana has witnessed transformative changes during the BRS regime. She alleged that Congress could not ensure basic needs like supply of drinking water and irrigation during its long rule in undivided Andhra Pradesh. The BRS government worked for the people despite the Centre not supporting it, she claimed. Referring to the Cauvery water row between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, she asked why Congress cannot make the chief ministers of the two states sit together and solve the issue forever as DMK is its partner in the INDIA alliance. Asked about the allegations against her in the Delhi excise policy case, she said it is the "modus operandi" of the BJP. "There is nothing special about Kavitha. It is just that Telangana is going to an election, so they have to trouble BRS as a party," she said, speaking about the Enforcement Directorate questioning her in the case. Not only she, but many other leaders of BRS are being "targeted" as well, she claimed. Asked about her stance on the 'India-Bharat' debate, she said they are non-issues. The names 'India' and 'Bharat' have been loved and used interchangeably and both the names are equally important, she said. "Just because the opposition comes together and calls themselves INDIA, the BJP gets scared and they want to call the whole country with a different name. They are taking their insecurities to the next level," she said. Asked about the stance of BRS on the Uniform Civil Code, she reiterated her party's opposition to it Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By PTI BENGALURU: Normal life is likely to be affected, especially in the southern part of the state, with pro-Kannada and farmers' organisations calling for 'Karnataka Bandh' on Friday to protest the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu. 'Kannada Okkuta', an umbrella organisation for Kannada outfits including factions of Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, Kannada Chalavali (Vatal Paksha) and various farmers' bodies have given a call for the statewide dawn-to-dusk shutdown. There will be a massive protest procession from Town Hall to Freedom Park in the city, in which people from all walks of life are likely to participate, the organisers said. They have said that the bandh is for the entire Karnataka and that they will try to shut down highways, toll gates, rail services, and airports. The opposition BJP and JD(S) too have extended their support to the bandh, as also hotels, autorickshaws and hail riders associations in Karnataka. "Autorickshaw Drivers' Union and Ola Uber Drivers and Owners' Association (OUDOA) are supporting the bandh. We will take out a rally from Nayandahalli to the Freedom Park tomorrow," its president Tanveer Pasha told PTI. An office bearer of the Karnataka State Private Schools' Association told PTI that they were extending 'moral support' to the bandh. "We have told our association members to use their discretion regarding the bandh. We have communicated to our students that there are chances of schools remaining shut," the office-bearer said. The Bruhath Bangaluru Hotel Association has extended its 'moral support' to the strike. However, they were holding a meeting to make a final decision on whether to keep the restaurants and eateries shut for the whole day on Friday. Meanwhile, the State Transport Department has issued directions to the state transport corporations to continue their services as usual. Farmers and traders in the northern part of Karnataka such as Ballari, Kalaburagi, Bidar, Bagalkote, Vijayapura, Yadgir, Hubballi-Dharwad, Gadag, Haveri, Koppal and Davangere have extended their 'moral support' to the bandh but said they will not shut down their businesses. Meanwhile, a few activists on Thursday staged protests in the Cauvery heartland of Mandya against the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu. They have been staging agitation for the past 15 days. They alleged that the state government had been lenient towards Tamil Nadu and had not been pursuing the matter properly. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp BENGALURU: Normal life is likely to be affected, especially in the southern part of the state, with pro-Kannada and farmers' organisations calling for 'Karnataka Bandh' on Friday to protest the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu. 'Kannada Okkuta', an umbrella organisation for Kannada outfits including factions of Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, Kannada Chalavali (Vatal Paksha) and various farmers' bodies have given a call for the statewide dawn-to-dusk shutdown. There will be a massive protest procession from Town Hall to Freedom Park in the city, in which people from all walks of life are likely to participate, the organisers said. They have said that the bandh is for the entire Karnataka and that they will try to shut down highways, toll gates, rail services, and airports.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The opposition BJP and JD(S) too have extended their support to the bandh, as also hotels, autorickshaws and hail riders associations in Karnataka. "Autorickshaw Drivers' Union and Ola Uber Drivers and Owners' Association (OUDOA) are supporting the bandh. We will take out a rally from Nayandahalli to the Freedom Park tomorrow," its president Tanveer Pasha told PTI. An office bearer of the Karnataka State Private Schools' Association told PTI that they were extending 'moral support' to the bandh. "We have told our association members to use their discretion regarding the bandh. We have communicated to our students that there are chances of schools remaining shut," the office-bearer said. The Bruhath Bangaluru Hotel Association has extended its 'moral support' to the strike. However, they were holding a meeting to make a final decision on whether to keep the restaurants and eateries shut for the whole day on Friday. Meanwhile, the State Transport Department has issued directions to the state transport corporations to continue their services as usual. Farmers and traders in the northern part of Karnataka such as Ballari, Kalaburagi, Bidar, Bagalkote, Vijayapura, Yadgir, Hubballi-Dharwad, Gadag, Haveri, Koppal and Davangere have extended their 'moral support' to the bandh but said they will not shut down their businesses. Meanwhile, a few activists on Thursday staged protests in the Cauvery heartland of Mandya against the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu. They have been staging agitation for the past 15 days. They alleged that the state government had been lenient towards Tamil Nadu and had not been pursuing the matter properly. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By AFP MOSCOW: The Kremlin said Thursday that a decision by Armenia to join the International Criminal Court (ICC), which has issued an arrest warrant for President Vladimir Putin, would be "extremely hostile." Russia has repeatedly warned Armenia against ratifying The Hague-based court's founding treaty, known as the Rome Statute. Its adherents are expected to make the arrest if Putin steps foot in their territory. The Kremlin's latest warning came as the Armenian parliament gears up to vote on whether to ratify the Rome Statute next week. "These kinds of decisions are extremely hostile in our view," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. He said it was "difficult to wrap our heads around the decision" taken by the ICC. Tensions have been rising between Yerevan and Moscow over the role of Russian peacekeepers in the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan, which announced its dissolution on Thursday following a lightning military operation by Baku. In March, the ICC announced an arrest warrant for Putin on the war crime accusation of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp MOSCOW: The Kremlin said Thursday that a decision by Armenia to join the International Criminal Court (ICC), which has issued an arrest warrant for President Vladimir Putin, would be "extremely hostile." Russia has repeatedly warned Armenia against ratifying The Hague-based court's founding treaty, known as the Rome Statute. Its adherents are expected to make the arrest if Putin steps foot in their territory. The Kremlin's latest warning came as the Armenian parliament gears up to vote on whether to ratify the Rome Statute next week.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "These kinds of decisions are extremely hostile in our view," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. He said it was "difficult to wrap our heads around the decision" taken by the ICC. Tensions have been rising between Yerevan and Moscow over the role of Russian peacekeepers in the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan, which announced its dissolution on Thursday following a lightning military operation by Baku. In March, the ICC announced an arrest warrant for Putin on the war crime accusation of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Yeshi Seli By Express News Service NEW DELHI: The US mission in India announced that it has processed one million visa applications in India this year, which was 20 per cent more than pre-pandemic levels. However, a fresh applicant for a US visa in India has to wait for over a year. "We would like the US to reduce the wait time for visas that are issued to Indians. Last year we could not take a delegation for an important event to the US as members couldnt get visas," said Lalit Bhasin, National President of Indo American Chambers of Commerce during the 20th Indo-US Economic Summit on Tuesday. A few days ago, the US had announced that a record 90,000 student visas were issued to Indians during the summer months (June to August), which was 25 per cent of the total student visas issued globally. ALSO READ | US presidential aspirant Vivek Ramaswamy vows to end H-1B visa system "Our partnership with India is one of the United States most important bilateral relationships, and in fact one of the most important relationships in the world. The ties between our people are stronger than ever, and we will continue our record-setting volume of visa work in the coming months to give as many Indian applicants as possible the opportunity to travel to the United States and experience the U.S.-India friendship firsthand," said US Ambassador Eric Garcetti. In 2022, over 1.2 million Indians visited the United States. Indians now represent over 10 per cent of all US visa applicants worldwide, including 20 per cent of all student visa applicants and 65 per cent of all H&L-category (employment) visa applicants. The H and L category visas are used by employers to hire non-immigrants for work in the US. The L1 visas are for work management or executive capacity whereas H1B visas are typically used for specialised occupations. ALSO READ | US Embassy in India issued record 90,000 student visas this summer In order to facilitate the visa processing, the US mission has increased its staff. The mission says that they have implemented strategies to increase efficiency, extending interview waiver eligibility to new visa categories and utilizing remote work to allow staff around the world to contribute to Indian visa processing. In 2024, the US mission plans to implement a pilot programme that would allow domestic visa renewal for qualified H&L-category employment visa applicants. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp NEW DELHI: The US mission in India announced that it has processed one million visa applications in India this year, which was 20 per cent more than pre-pandemic levels. However, a fresh applicant for a US visa in India has to wait for over a year. "We would like the US to reduce the wait time for visas that are issued to Indians. Last year we could not take a delegation for an important event to the US as members couldnt get visas," said Lalit Bhasin, National President of Indo American Chambers of Commerce during the 20th Indo-US Economic Summit on Tuesday. A few days ago, the US had announced that a record 90,000 student visas were issued to Indians during the summer months (June to August), which was 25 per cent of the total student visas issued globally.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); ALSO READ | US presidential aspirant Vivek Ramaswamy vows to end H-1B visa system "Our partnership with India is one of the United States most important bilateral relationships, and in fact one of the most important relationships in the world. The ties between our people are stronger than ever, and we will continue our record-setting volume of visa work in the coming months to give as many Indian applicants as possible the opportunity to travel to the United States and experience the U.S.-India friendship firsthand," said US Ambassador Eric Garcetti. In 2022, over 1.2 million Indians visited the United States. Indians now represent over 10 per cent of all US visa applicants worldwide, including 20 per cent of all student visa applicants and 65 per cent of all H&L-category (employment) visa applicants. The H and L category visas are used by employers to hire non-immigrants for work in the US. The L1 visas are for work management or executive capacity whereas H1B visas are typically used for specialised occupations. ALSO READ | US Embassy in India issued record 90,000 student visas this summer In order to facilitate the visa processing, the US mission has increased its staff. The mission says that they have implemented strategies to increase efficiency, extending interview waiver eligibility to new visa categories and utilizing remote work to allow staff around the world to contribute to Indian visa processing. In 2024, the US mission plans to implement a pilot programme that would allow domestic visa renewal for qualified H&L-category employment visa applicants. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By AFP ARMENIA: More than 65,000 Armenians have fled Nagorno-Karabakh for Armenia, Yerevan said Thursday, as the exodus continued from the breakaway enclave which Azerbaijan recaptured last week in a lightning offensive. By Thursday morning, "65,036 forcefully displaced persons crossed into Armenia from Nagorno-Karabakh," Armenian government spokeswoman, Nazeli Baghdasaryan, said in a statement. Some 120,000 ethnic Armenians were estimated to be living in the territory before Baku's offensive. "The state is providing suitable housing to all those who do not have a predetermined place of residence," she added. On Sunday, Azerbaijan reopened the sole road linking Nagorno-Karabakh with Armenia, the Lachin corridor policed by Russian peacekeepers -- four days after Armenian separatist forces agreed to lay down arms and disband their army. The return of the Armenian-populated separatist enclave under the control of the central government in Baku has led to a mass exodus of ethnic Armenians. Internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan, Nagorno-Karabakh, which broke away from Baku three decades ago, was at the centre of two wars between mostly Christian Armenia and predominantly Muslim Azerbaijan. Yerevan's attempts to absorb the sea of homeless and hungry ethnic Armenians come with officials still trying to identify the whereabouts of more than 100 people reported missing in a fuel depot blast Monday that claimed 68 lives. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp ARMENIA: More than 65,000 Armenians have fled Nagorno-Karabakh for Armenia, Yerevan said Thursday, as the exodus continued from the breakaway enclave which Azerbaijan recaptured last week in a lightning offensive. By Thursday morning, "65,036 forcefully displaced persons crossed into Armenia from Nagorno-Karabakh," Armenian government spokeswoman, Nazeli Baghdasaryan, said in a statement. Some 120,000 ethnic Armenians were estimated to be living in the territory before Baku's offensive.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "The state is providing suitable housing to all those who do not have a predetermined place of residence," she added. On Sunday, Azerbaijan reopened the sole road linking Nagorno-Karabakh with Armenia, the Lachin corridor policed by Russian peacekeepers -- four days after Armenian separatist forces agreed to lay down arms and disband their army. The return of the Armenian-populated separatist enclave under the control of the central government in Baku has led to a mass exodus of ethnic Armenians. Internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan, Nagorno-Karabakh, which broke away from Baku three decades ago, was at the centre of two wars between mostly Christian Armenia and predominantly Muslim Azerbaijan. Yerevan's attempts to absorb the sea of homeless and hungry ethnic Armenians come with officials still trying to identify the whereabouts of more than 100 people reported missing in a fuel depot blast Monday that claimed 68 lives. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp The new partnership between Vacheron Constantin and The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), a leading art museum founded in 1870, is based on an unwavering commitment to safeguarding and passing on knowledge and expertise Through this alliance, the Maison demonstrates its profound attachment to the world of art and culture that has consistently nurtured its imagination and its creativity as will be vividly showcased in future educational initiatives developed within the framework of this partnership. Perpetually learning "None of us knows what we all know together. Even in the time of Euripides, the sharing of knowledge and the heritage it represents for future generations was of paramount importance. The same goes for Vacheron Constantin, whose founding act was an apprenticeship contract signed by Jean-Marc Vacheron on 17 September 1755. This official document, bearing the oldest mention of the Vacheron watchmaking dynasty, committed the founder of the Maison to teaching his art to a young apprentice over a five-year period. This passing on of knowledge has always been core to the activity of the Manufacture, whose 40 or so skills are largely dependent on the artistry and techniques developed by previous generations continually rethought, adapted and enhanced over the decades. Today as in the past, Vacheron Constantin is committed to integrating apprentices into its production process and taking good care of its artisans and watchmakers, who are made keenly aware of the intelligence guiding their forebears skills, ensuring they never forget what makes a Vacheron Constantin watch unique. Whether listed in the Maisons catalogue or bearing the Les Cabinotiers emblem that signs exceptional oneoff timepieces, each model is the fruit of more than two and a half centuries of knowledge and tradition, driven by creativity and innovation, in a constant effort to enrich the existing body of knowledge. For Louis Ferla, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, "the quest for excellence is a constant challenge in which we never stop learning. Louis Ferla and Max Hollein Vacheron Constantin Mentoring programs As the Maisons CEO Louis Ferla explains: Establishing a partnership with the prestigious Metropolitan Museum of Art enables us to highlight our shared vocation for transmitting knowledge and preserving the arts. Vacheron Constantin's commitment to art and culture has always been an inexhaustible source of inspiration, permeating our freedom to create and express beauty in all our watches. The Maisons ties with the United States and New York date back more than two centuries, with many of our finest creations having been made for American collectors and clients, such as the iconic American 1921. This partnership with The Met confirms our cultural and artistic attachment to this country, as well as our concern to preserve its expertise. With this in mind, Vacheron Constantin has developed its "One of Not Many Mentorship Program" in collaboration with talents whose personality and work express the continual quest for excellence, the openness to the world as well as the spirit of innovation and creativity characteristic of Vacheron Constantin. This approach is exemplified by the collaboration with Abbey Road Studios enabling young musicians to benefit from the advice of experts in music production and the support of internationally renowned musician and artistic director Woodkid. Another illustration lies in cooperation with CHAN Chun Wai, principal dancer with the New York City Ballet, who teaches his art to promising young talents. The Met is also deeply committed to mentorship and educational programs that make art accessible to everyone, regardless of background, disability, age, or experience. The Mets Education Department currently presents over 29,000 educational events and programs throughout the year. These programs include workshops, art-making experiences, specialized tours, fellowships supporting leading scholarship and research, high school and college internships that promote career accessibility and diversity, access programs for visitors with disabilities, K-12 educator programs that train teachers to integrate art into core curricula across disciplines, and school tours and programs that spark deep learning and lifelong relationships with and through art. Manufacture of Vacheron Constantin Vacheron Constantin Centuries-old links Max Hollein, The Mets Marina Kellen French Director and CEO, said: We are delighted to partner with Vacheron Constantin and are grateful for their support of The Mets mission, which aligns with the esteemed watchmakers own longstanding efforts to celebrate creativity and preserve artistic traditions. We look forward to collaborating on a number of unique projects that build on our mutual commitment to education and the arts. Vacheron Constantin is particularly delighted to share these values with such an institution on American soil. Historically, it was in 1811 that Vacheron Constantin made its first contact with a merchant active in transatlantic trade, and who settled in New York in 1832, before gradually extending the representation of Vacheron Constantin watches to most of the country's states. In addition to supplying watches specially developed for the US Army Corps of Engineers in 1918, Vacheron Constantin also produced one of the most prestigious watches in watchmaking history for its American client James Ward Packard. These few examples suffice to illustrate the Maisons deep attachment to the United States that has now taken on a new artistic and cultural dimension through the partnership with TheMet, heralding a fruitful exchange of knowledge through joint creative projects. The partnership will support a variety of The Mets mission-driven activities and will include a number of collaborations, including an artist-in-residency program and other educational initiatives; special events; and Vacheron Constantin exceptional and dedicated timepieces inspired by artworks from The Met collection. The Metropolitan Museum Courtesy of the Met Summary Vacheron Constantin announces a new partnership with New York's prestigious Metropolitan Museum of Art. This alliance is based on common values of safeguarding and passing on knowledge dedicated to creativity and innovation. Like Vacheron Constantin, The Met is also involved in a number of educational programs, reflecting both partners desire to encourage and support individuals in their projects by surrounding them with experienced mentors. This emphasis on artistic and cultural heritage is intended to encourage the sharing of knowledge in the pursuit of excellence. With this in mind, The Met and Vacheron Constantin will be developing a series of joint projects designed to showcase their respective rich heritages and their ability to keep cultural legacies alive for future generations. The Metropolitan Museum of Art The Metropolitan Museum of Art was founded in 1870 by a group of American citizensbusinessmen and financiers as well as leading artists and thinkers of the daywho wanted to create a museum to bring art and art education to the American people. Today, The Met displays tens of thousands of objects covering 5,000 years of art from around the world for everyone to experience and enjoy. The Museum lives in two iconic sites in New York CityThe Met Fifth Avenue and The Met Cloisters. Millions of people also take part in The Met experience online. Since its founding, The Met has always aspired to be more than a treasury of rare and beautiful objects. Every day, art comes alive in the Museums galleries and through its exhibitions and events, revealing both new ideas and unexpected connections across time and across cultures. Bulgari's General Manager highlights the particularities of the company and its evolution in the watchmaking industry Bulgari unveiled some very bold new products at Geneva Watch Days. Is boldness part of the brand's philosophy? Boldness has been embedded in Bulgari's DNA since the company was founded in 1884. Sotirio Bulgari was a Greek immigrant who came to Italy to set up his jewelry workshop in Rome, and his vision was to sell his creations directly to customers rather than through wholesalers. So boldness is very much part of Bulgari. You've just published a book retracing over 100 years of Bulgari watchmaking. What's so special about it? We did indeed celebrate the centenary of Bulgari watchmaking five years ago, yet this art book was not only written by recognized experts. Its originality lies in the contribution of athletes such as Carl Lewis and artists such as Alessandro Gassmann, as we wanted to showcase the art of watchmaking at Bulgari, including from the standpoint of those who admire and wear the brand's products as customers. This type of content is unique, admirably backed by a very high level of production quality and strong emotional content. Octo Finissimo Bulgari As CEO of the Bulgari Group, are you observing any particular trends in luxury goods beyond watchmaking? We were seeing certain tendencies prior to Covid that have since been amplified, resulting in fewer purchases yet of higher value, with many customers empowering themselves to consume luxury by paying attention to authenticity, craftsmanship, quality, durability and in fact the entire range of our brand values. As a jeweler, we're fortunate in that preciousness is inherently part of our offering and everything we create conveys rarity and intrinsic value, as everyone knows that precious stones are rare and gold is a safe-haven asset. This is also true of watches. In addition, we're witnessing an accelerating polarization of the market, with the big brands gaining importance; and on the other hand, new niche brands emerging and rapidly gaining notoriety because they bring freshness. Take the example of Geneva Watch Days, which united 40 brands, two-thirds of which are not yet very well known to the general public, yet are still successful as shown by our panels which revealed they have earned a total of 60 GPHG awards, including two Aiguille dOr best-in-show prizes. The general public is gradually discovering them through similar events and we can expect them to break through and forge the future of Swiss Haute Horlogerie, which is resilient but needs to integrate such new players and their creations. When you look to the future of Bulgari, what would you like to see? Bulgari's future lies in respecting its Roman roots which are an integral part of the brand success, as well as in remaining true to the boldness and innovation that have forged its DNA. We want to integrate technology into the beauty of watchmaking in order to make our watches even more appealing, for example with a sculpted QR code giving access to a digital universe revealing all the nano-components powering a watch, without compromising in terms of mechanical expertise and yet without becoming a tech brand. We will also increase the emotional importance of belonging to the Bulgari community, drawing on our other fields of expertise to increase the desirability of watchmaking. At one end of the spectrum, Bulgari fragrances bring in new Gen Z customers who still have modest means; and at the other end, Bulgari hotels are the most expensive in the world and welcome high wealth individuals who are naturally willing to treat themselves to our watches and jewelry. Serpenti Misteriosi Bulgari You mentioned very strong growth, outperforming the industry as a whole. To what do you attribute this? I would single out two elements. About ten years ago, we went back to the drawing board and abandoned most of the existing models in an attempt to transform those we found extremely interesting, such as Octo and Serpenti, and turn them into icons. It was ambitious, naive and pretentious, yet in the end, innovation after innovation, through Finissimo for Octo and Picolissimo for Serpenti, we are succeeding. Above and beyond the reputation and respect earned by these two collections, it's also a commercial success, so we're starting to reap what we've sown over the last ten years. Moreover, as a jeweler, Bulgari has a strong feminine bias, being one of those rare brands that create watches for women from a blank sheet of paper, such as our Diva, Lucea or Serpenti collections. Today, it's clear that the ladies watch market has enormous potential that has been somewhat ignored by the watch industry, whose roots are extremely masculine and whose icons are 95% masculine. The feminine range remains poor even today, except through jewelry watches which have always been created for women and which achieve higher resonance than masculine brands that simply reduce the diameter while adding a little mother-of-pearl and diamonds. Sales of ladies watches are exploding and the first to benefit are brands recognized by women, spearheaded by jewelry brands such as Bulgari. You are one of the emblematic bosses who have made their mark on the watch industry, having won two Aiguilles d'Or awards at the GPHG for two different brands, as well as founding Geneva Watch Days in an entrepreneurial and unifying spirit. What else might still nurture your career? Above all, I want to keep going, because Bulgari is still in its infancy. This may seem paradoxical given how far we've come in ten years, yet I'm convinced that this brand has a potential that's hugely underestimated, whether in watchmaking, jewelry or the luxury hotel business. We could quite easily double their turnover quite quickly, it's entirely feasible. Some brands are twice our size and if they could do it, it's within our reach, especially as Bulgari is on a roll. We focus our communication on unique points of attraction, while differentiating ourselves through a blend of inclusion and diversity. Bulgari expresses itself through personalities as strong and varied as Zendaya, Lisa, Anne Hathaway and Liu Yife. Its a brand that speaks to women locally and globally, whatever their culture, something that is quite unique in the luxury sector. However, one of my greatest professional satisfactions lies in the 4,500 jobs we've created in five years, across our entire range of skills. It's a huge HR challenge, which must be backed by watchmaking schools like those we've set up in the field of jewelry, but what a joy it is to enable so many people to blossom and grow with us! Jean-Christophe Babin Bulgari Bulgari's one-of-a-kind model for this edition of Only Watch is spectacular; what are your expectations? Only Watch is a great cause, and Bulgari has always been a very generous brand: the Bulgari brothers were great patrons of the arts and we respect this heritage through artistic and musical, humanitarian, educational and medical sponsorship. Only Watch has another dimension, being at the heart of medical research and watchmaking creation. For us, it's above all a gesture of solidarity that confirms all our actions in this field, with an operation that must generate the greatest possible proceeds, because that's the very reason for being of Only Watch. We thus went in search of the impossible: a marble watch. Marble, of course, stands for Rome, so this is a very Bulgari watch and at the same time unprecedented. We're accentuating the paradox with the Finissimo, which is intended to be the exact opposite of marble that is by definition massive and thick. We therefore hope it will spark a lot of interest and fetch a very high price so as to contribute to the success of Only Watch. You initiated Geneva Watch Days event which has clearly turned a corner with this fourth edition, but do you think it has reached cruising speed? In terms of the number of brands, we're far from having reached our maximum capacity, because the concept itself has no capacity or space limits, insofar as each brand arranges its participation according to its needs and means, relying on boutiques or hotel suites. If next year we attract 50 or 60, that's no problem, and given the success of the first 4 editions, along with the massive support of Geneva's watchmaking institutions, it seems obvious that we're going to step up the promotion of this event. I don't think it's just a watch fair, but rather a genuine forum and platform for exchanges. While the presentation of new products is of course important, the educational and informative part of the event is an enormous boost to our understanding of watchmaking. The desire for horology can inspire vocations and attract both young customers and young recruits, to whom we give the opportunity to discover our professions. Our auction indeed helped finance a dozen scholarships for the Geneva Watchmaking School. At Geneva Watch Days, the experience is as important as the commercial dimension, and we are not in competition with but rather complementary to other watchmaking events, both in terms of timing and participating brands. I'd like to accentuate this platform approach while continuing to attract other brands, including so that retailers and journalists can meet as many participants as possible at the event. A well-known producer and director from Kyiv, Oleksandr Rodnyansky , stood up for Russian Nika Belotserkovskaya and other "good" Russian citizens. After his Russian followers started accusing him of fighting against Putin's regime, the Kyivan decided to justify them. ADVERTISIMENT To do so, he even quoted one of the Russian citizens who wrote to him personally. The corresponding post appeared on the star's Instagram (scroll to the bottom of the page to see the photo). The fact is that recently Nika Belotserkovskaya published a cautionary tale for Russians emigrating to Europe. She compared them to "rats" who carry the plague to civilized countries. The post was liked by Rodnyansky, who was immediately criticized by offended Russians. First of all, the producer assured that he was simply supporting Belotserkovskaya, her "uncompromising position and literary talent." "No, I do not consider Russians who protest against the war to be 'rats'. Many times I have written that I am categorically against dividing people by blood, passport or place of birth. I am sure there are no guilty nations, only guilty people. And I know and see many Russians who help Ukrainians in word and deed," Rodnyansky said. ADVERTISIMENT In an attempt to justify himself, Rodnyansky quoted the words of his subscriber, who boasted that he had been doing something to end the war for more than a year. Earlier, OBOZREVATEL wrote that Oleksandr Rodnyansky showed a photo of Christmas Mariupol. "The city on the eve of its death," the filmmaker accurately described the picture. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! 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. Urbana police found the following while searching the backpack of an 11-year-old they had stopped Sept. 15 near a Champaign apartment while investigating a shooting the day before near Booker T. Washington STEM Academy in northeast Champaign: two stolen Glock handguns (both fully loaded with one bullet in the chamber); a Pro Mag drum pistol magazine capable of holding 50 bullets; an additional handgun magazine; and 390 rounds of ammunition. First the pandemic and then the war put travel on hold. But hard times come to an end sooner or later, and those who have the opportunity to travel are still enjoying discovering new countries. ADVERTISIMENT Many Ukrainians have traveled abroad, so it is especially important for them to know the rules of etiquette for tourists. Escape magazine has published 12 simple rules that every traveler should know. Dimensions of luggage Airlines set the allowable weight and dimensions of luggage. There's no point in arguing, holding up the queue, or trying to negotiate with airport staff for concessions. There are rules - you have to follow them. Accept the options offered to you by airline employees: a fine, repacking, or an additional fee. This also applies to hand luggage. The airplane cabin is not your lounge Respect others. Do not contaminate the airplane cabin. Do not take off your shoes if you have been on your feet all day and your socks may smell unpleasant. Respect other people's personal space. Do not start quarrels with the cabin crew, if you need something, ask politely. ADVERTISIMENT Resting in the cabin If there is a button on the seats that allows you to recline, you can use it. However, do so carefully so as not to disturb the passengers behind you. Queues There are dozens of ways to speed up airport lines. Keep your passport and other documents handy so you don't have to search for them in all the compartments of your travel bag at the last minute. Empty your pockets before you get to the security line. Put things back in your pocket away from the conveyor belt. Do not stand blocking the passage of other people. Online translators Google Translate is undoubtedly one of the best inventions of mankind. It's hard to imagine how people traveled without having a handy app at their fingertips. However, keep in mind that machine translation is often wrong. Try translating a sentence from your language into a foreign language and then vice versa to see if the translation is more or less correct. Try to learn the basic necessary phrases in the foreign language. ADVERTISIMENT Restaurants, hotels, and other establishments Keep in mind the general rules of etiquette and cultural norms of the country you are in. Be polite, well-mannered and modest. Do not be rude to the staff. Learn at least the words of gratitude in the foreign language. Do not raise your voice When traveling, different situations can happen - from airplane delays to luggage problems. Don't try to run around the airport trying to figure out why you didn't get your flight on time. Flight delays are a fairly common situation, and your screaming and complaining won't make anyone feel better or make the plane take off any faster. The staff will be more inclined to help you if you behave correctly and politely voice your questions or complaints. Dress code on the plane Clothes should be comfortable - this is the first rule of the airplane dress code. Short T-shirts, mini-skirts, revealing necklines, mini-shorts, and other revealing items should not be worn. Especially if you are traveling to countries where modesty is the norm. No one is going to arrest you if you enter Dubai airport with a bare navel, but it will be very rude. ADVERTISIMENT "American" tourist rule Americans are extremely polite to tourists in their country. They always smile and ask how you are doing. They are never too busy to help you when you are lost. So it's worthwhile to be polite and show good manners in every way possible. Cultural sensitivities Consider the cultural characteristics of the country. Women should not dress too revealingly if they are traveling to the Middle East. Japanese culture also has many rules that you should learn in advance to avoid getting into awkward situations. Booking a restaurant Usually, when you make a reservation at a restaurant, you need to pay a cash deposit, which will be forfeited if you cancel within a certain period of time. In some countries, this can also result in the full cost of the meal being charged to your credit card if you make a "no-show". So be aware of the rules for breaking reservations at restaurants and other dining establishments. ADVERTISIMENT Airport send-offs If you're going on vacation for a week, don't bring the whole family to the airport and have long farewells. This will lead to queues and unnecessary crowds near the terminal. The only exception is the elderly, who can be escorted up to the limit set by airport rules. Alternatively, you can say goodbye to a large family in the terminal if you are moving abroad for an indefinite period of time. Earlier, OBOZREVATEL published the top of the best cities in Europe for an autumn trip. Subscribe to OBOZREVATEL's Telegram and Viber channels to keep up with the latest developments. In a recent study published in the journal Nature Communications, scientists from the US calculated the importance of earthworms for food cultivation worldwide. Their findings highlight the need to manage agriculture sustainably and invest more in agroecological policies promoting food security while protecting soil health and biodiversity. Study: Earthworms contribute significantly to global food production. Image Credit: Bukhta Yurii / Shutterstock Background In the past century, farming has had to keep pace with quickly growing human populations. Farmers increased their yields by planting new crop varieties and using more machines, fertilizers, and pesticides. However, these practices affected the health of the soil and its biodiversity. They caused air and water pollution and contributed to climate change. While demand for food is increasing, production should rise sustainably. Earthworms contribute to agricultural production in many ways. They are so beneficial that they are often called ecosystem engineers. Earthworms help aerate, hydrate, and enrich soil with nitrogen and even protect crops from pathogens. Knowing these mechanisms, scientists aimed to estimate how much their activities affect agriculture. This can help manage croplands and increase yield in an environmentally friendly way. About the study Scientists searched published literature, putting together all the research examining the effects of earthworms on agriculture. Their evidence came from experiments that removed or added earthworms to a greenhouse or field. Using these studies, they were able to approximate the average effect that earthworms have across different areas and settings or the overall earthworm effect (E). The team also used global maps of agricultural lands, looking at the crops grown there, particularly cereal grains (such as barley, maize, rice, and wheat) and legumes (such as soybean and peas). They considered aspects that affect crop yield, such as soil acidity and texture. They also differentiated areas that receive high rates of nitrogen fertilizers from those that do not. Other maps were used to estimate earthworm abundance, which was the size of the earthworm population in each area. These maps and E (which they had estimated earlier) were used to calculate how much earthworms contribute. This was based on the area under cultivation for each crop, including factors such as soil acidity, texture, and nitrogen. They also calculated the impact of earthworms for each global region, using the groupings named in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Results Without earthworms, the production of cereals would be 6.45% or 128 million metric tons lower every year. Their contribution to legumes was lower but still significant, at 2.3% or 16 million metric tons annually. According to the authors, this difference is caused by legumes fixing their own nitrogen so they are not as dependent on earthworms. Regarding regional contribution, earthworms were most important in Sub-Saharan Africa. They were responsible for one-tenth of cereal grain crops and slightly over 3% of legume crops. Earthworms also contributed significantly to cereal and legume production in Latin America and the Caribbean (8% of cereals and 3.1% of legumes). In South-Eastern Asia, their importance was in the growth of cereal grains (7.4%). However, looking at regional yields, the contribution of earthworms was highest in Eastern/South-Eastern Asia and Europe, at 40 million metric tons of cereal grains. This was probably because earthworm populations are high in these regions. These areas also produce more cereals and have more land under production. The contributions were lower in Sub-Saharan Africa (3 million metric tons) and Latin America (11 million metric tons) but are still crucial for food security. Our results are encouraging and suggest significant potential to enhance agricultural productivity via improved management of soil biological communities. Conclusions This is the first study to quantify the importance of earthworms for agriculture and nutrition globally. Earthworms contribute 140 million metric tons to legume and cereal production every year. They have a crucial role in soils with lower pH and more clay, where fertilizer use is not high. The scientists were conservative in their approach and feel that they might even have underestimated the contribution of these small animals. For example, the experiments they found were often short and did not measure long-term effects like protection against erosion. The team also noted that the relationship between earthworms and agriculture is well-studied in Europe and North America, but little is known in Africa or Asia. Scientists may also be underestimating the abundance of earthworms, thus affecting the results. These are all fertile avenues for more scientific investigation. The role of other soil organisms should also be explored. These promising results, scientists caution, should not be interpreted to mean that earthworms should be released into areas where they are currently rare. This could have adverse effects. They instead advocate for ongoing promotion and research of agroecological management practices that boost the biological communities in soil, which includes earthworms. These practices help protect soil biodiversity and support sustainable agriculture and resilient ecosystems. Instead, we suggest investment in continued research and promotion of agroecological management practices that enhance entire soil biological communities, including earthworms, so as to support a whole range of ecosystem services that contribute to the long-term sustainability and resilience of agriculture. A recent Communications Medicine study assesses how temperature contributes to increased hospital visits due to alcohol- and substance-related disorders in New York State. Study: The association between temperature and alcohol- and substance-related disorder hospital visits in New York State. Image Credit: joel bubble ben / Shuterstock.com Background In 2019, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) survey indicated that about 139.7 million people drink alcohol and approximately 25.8 million people consume illegal drugs. Although most individuals who drink alcohol or use illicit substances do so in moderation, a small percentage are recurrent or extensive users. Recurrent drug or alcohol users often experience significant clinical impairment and require inpatient treatment. An increase in excessive alcohol-related morbidity and mortality has recently been recorded in the United States. Weather plays an important role in public health; therefore, it is essential to formulate effective strategies to combat issues related to climate change. Most studies have investigated the effect of climate and weather change on infectious and parasitic diseases, whereas other studies have assessed how these conditions influence the manifestations of respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. Behavioral and physiological pathways may be associated with temperature changes and alcohol- and substance-related disorders. For example, higher temperature increases the perspiration rate, which plays an important role in how an individuals body reacts to certain substances. Temperature may also indirectly influence alcohol consumption and substance use. In this context, one previous study indicated that temperature rise from climate change enhances mental health issues, which could subsequently increase both alcohol consumption and illicit substance use. Limited studies have assessed the relationship between temperature and alcohol- and substance-related disorders. Although two studies conducted in Germany and France have reported that temperature is associated with alcohol use disorders, these studies did not control for confounding bias. Another study conducted in Canada established a positive correlation between higher temperatures and an increase in substance abuse-related mental illness, which required emergency hospital visits. About the study The current study assessed whether daily temperature influenced hospital visits due to alcohol- or substance-related disorders, particularly from cannabis, opioids, cocaine, and sedatives. The role of age, social vulnerabilities, and location in the relationship between hospital visits and alcohol/substance use was also determined. All relevant data were obtained from the New York Department of Health State-wide Planning and Research Cooperative System (SPARCS) between 1995 and 2014. SPARCS provided data for about 98% of individuals who visited New York State hospitals. Both inpatients and outpatients were considered. Substance use was sub-grouped based on cannabis, opioids, cocaine, and sedative abuse. Study findings In New York State, a total of 717,798 hospital visits were recorded due to alcohol-related disorders and 794,305 for substance-related disorders. Based on the eligibility criteria, 671,625 individuals admitted to hospitals due to alcohol-related disorders and 721,469 for substance-related disorders were included. The highest hospital visits were linked to opioid users, while the lowest number of hospital visits was linked to sedative use. Across every group and subgroup, individuals between the ages of 25 and 44 years were associated with the highest frequency of hospital visits. Compared to females, males were more likely to visit hospitals for alcohol/substance use-related issues. For both alcohol- and substance-related disorders, an increase in temperature from zero to six days before hospital visits was positively related to the rise in hospital visit rates. An increased consumption of substances occurs in more pleasant outdoor weather. Below-average temperatures were associated with reduced hospital visit rates. This finding implies that people using psychoactive substances are less likely to visit hospitals in cold or stormy weather, as they are more likely to stay indoors. Comparatively, in higher temperatures, the rate of hospital visits is higher, attributed to a greater tendency to stay outdoors and participate in riskier activities. However, increases in temperature beyond the comfortable level does not enhance outdoor activity. Although there was no robust association between hospital visits due to elevated substance-related disorder and temperature greater than the mean temperature, cocaine use was significantly higher with increased temperature. An increase in alcohol consumption caused an increase in sweating, which enhanced the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular disease events. Conclusions Some notable limitations of the current study include the misclassification of clinical outcomes and substance exposure. There is also a possibility that estimations are influenced by confounding bias. Furthermore, the present study was based in New York State, which limits the generalizability of the findings. Despite these limitations, the study findings highlight a positive association between short-term temperature exposure and hospital visits due to alcohol- and substance-related disorders. Therefore, the rapid increase in temperature due to climate change could also elevate the negative alcohol- and substance-related outcomes in the U.S. In the future, more research is needed to elucidate the relationship between medical history, frequency of hospital visits due to alcohol- and substance-related disorders, and temperature. Tuberculosis is old-;ancient even. The infectious bacterial disease that plagued Old Testament Israelites and took down pharaohs was eventually stunted by vaccinations, antibiotics, and public health measures like isolation, but it hasn't been cured yet. More than a million people around the world still die from TB every year. Now, a Boston University-led research team has found a way to tweak immune cells to better fight the disease and-;with the right backing and funding-;they say it could be ready for clinical trials as soon as next year. In a study published in Science Advances, the researchers identified the genetic signatures of TB-susceptible and TB-resistant white blood cells, called macrophages, and then tested the ability of different compounds to transform vulnerable cells into more resilient ones. The TB vaccine is not really 100 percent efficient and antibiotic resistance is becoming more prevalent." Igor Kramnik, study's corresponding author and a BU Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine associate professor of medicine His team's approach could add another weapon to the arsenal that's fighting TB: a host-directed therapy, a way of helping the body better control infection and reduce disease-related inflammation. "It's a way of treating the host, the patient, rather than focusing on the pathogen." The project mixed lab-based studies at BU's National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories (NEIDL) with a big data audit of potential compounds by scientists at University College Dublin, Ireland. "Tuberculosis, as one of my colleagues used to say, has studied us much longer than we have studied it," says Kramnik, who's also a NEIDL investigator. "It's a serious and complex disease and our standard interventions are only partially efficient-;none of them are sufficient to eradicate the disease." But the latest work could help change that, according to Shivraj M. Yabaji, a NEIDL postdoctoral researcher. "We hope that our research will contribute to the development of more effective treatments for TB by better understanding how to fine tune the activation states of immune cells," says Yabaji, the paper's lead author. "This could potentially lead to therapies that target host immunity to tuberculosis." Weak TB vaccine, rising antimicrobial resistance The cause of tuberculosis is a bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis-;a tiny rod-shaped germ less than 0.5 micrometers in diameter. Spread by a cough, sneeze, or even just a conversation, it can cause symptoms like fever, weight loss, and chest pain. In 2021-;the most recent numbers available-;more than 10 million people worldwide fell ill with TB, with the disease typically concentrating its attacks on their lungs. For 100 years, a vaccine-;bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG)-;has been the first line of defense against TB, albeit a somewhat ramshackle one. A recent study from Boston University showed that BCG has limited impact: researchers found itwas only about 37 percent effective in children under five years of age and offered no protection for adolescents and adults. And antibiotics, the fallback for those who do become infected, are losing their power.According to the World Health Organization, "drug-resistant tuberculosis is a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance worldwide and continues to be a public health threat;" it reports that around 500,000 people die annually from drug-resistant TB. Kramnik has been studying TB for 30 years, though he'd initially expected to only spend a few years scrutinizing it before turning his focus to tumor biology. "I thought that tuberculosis would be a nice stepping stone, but I'm still here, trying to understand it," he says. "It's a disease that's very different from others. Thinking about tuberculosis as a battle between a pathogen and a host isn't really productive. What we're probably dealing with is an evolutionarily refined coexistence of a pathogen and a host that eventually leads to incurable disease at its terminal stage." A new treatment to enhance natural defenses against TB One of TB's biggest mysteries is why some people get sick when most others don't; in particular, why so many patients initially ward off infection, then eventually succumb to it. Kramnik is also interested in why the bacteria is so intent on destroying the lung, which enables its transmission by infectious aerosols. In recent studies, his lab has used experimental mouse models, which mimic what happens to humans when they contract TB, to try to provide some answers. "It all led us to identify the importance of macrophage cells as major determinants, and regulators and controllers, of local immune response in the lung," he says, "and a major cell that affects susceptibility in cases of growing infection." Macrophages typically have two disease fighting states, says Kramnik: an active one that takes on and eliminates pathogenic intruders, and a regenerative one that helps rebuild tissue after infection. He discovered that in the case of TB, the cells can get stuck in a hyperactive, but ineffective, fight mode: a persistent and damaging inflammatory response that hurts the body, but doesn't take down the pathogen. In the latest study, Kramnik, Yabaji, and their colleagues used the mouse models to look for ways to shut this response off and help the macrophages work more effectively. To start, they used RNA sequencing-;a method for pinpointing which genes are expressed, or turned on-;hoping it would help them zero in on the "genetic signature that differentiates the normal/resistant and aberrant/susceptible activation states," says Kramnik. Using a test developed in collaboration with study coauthor Alexander A. Gimelbrant, an investigator at the Seattle-based Altius Institute for Biomedical Sciences, the team simultaneously measured the expression of 46 different genes that represented this signature. "This allowed us to look at gene expression patterns rather than individual genes to characterize the cell states and their changes in response to treatments." They then tested a range of drugs to see if any would perturb, or change, the expression of the genes. Some molecules worked better than others, but no single one could shift a macrophage from a TB-vulnerable to a TB-resistant state. To uncover a potential combination that would work in synergy, the lab-based team sent all of their data to researchers at University College Dublin, Ireland, who had developed a machine learning algorithm they could use to predict whether particular combinations of drugs would be more effective. "We then went back to the bench and tested those predictions," says Kramnik. They found two molecules that have shown promise as cancer treatments-;Rocaglamide A (RocA) and a c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor-;formed an especially good partnership. Together, they helped hinder cell signals related to inflammation and stress, while also boosting the pathways that carry stress resistance signals. "They would be good candidates for clinical trials, so it could change the medical treatment of tuberculosis," says Kramnik. The researchers also discovered that using the two together allowed them to dial back on the effective dose of RocA, which can be potentially toxic at higher levels. Kramnik says their results show how to increase "therapeutic efficacy at lower drug doses and decrease toxic side effects. This is particularly important for chronic diseases that require long course treatments, such as tuberculosis." Although the team is ready to move the research forward, bringing any therapy to trial would require fresh backing, whether from a pharmaceutical company or other institution. "We will be in position," says Kramnik, "to partner with people who can bring it to the clinic. This is our goal." As Medicare Advantage continues to gain popularity among seniors, three Southern California companies are pioneering new types of plans that target cultural and ethnic communities with special offerings and native-language practitioners. Clever Care Health Plan, based in Huntington Beach, and Alignment Health, based in nearby Orange, both have plans aimed at Asian Americans, with extra benefits including coverage for Eastern medicines and treatments such as cupping and tui na massage. Alignment also has an offering targeting Latinos, while Long Beach-based SCAN Health Plan has a product aimed at the LGBTQ+ community. All of them have launched since 2020. While many Medicare Advantage providers target various communities with their advertising, this trio of companies appear to be among the first in the nation to create plans with provider networks and benefits designed for specific cultural cohorts. Medicare Advantage is typically cheaper than traditional Medicare but generally requires patients to use in-network providers. "This fits me better," said Clever Care member Tam Pham, 78, a Vietnamese American from Westminster, California. Speaking to KFF Health News via an interpreter, she said she appreciates the dental care and herbal supplement benefits included in her plan, and especially the access to a Vietnamese-speaking doctor. "I can always get help when I call, without an interpreter," she said. Proponents of these new culturally targeted plans say they can offer not only trusted providers who understand their patients' unique context and speak their language, but also special products and services designed for their needs. Asian Americans may want coverage for traditional Eastern treatments, while LGBTQ+ patients might be especially concerned with HIV prevention or management, for example. Health policy researchers note that Medicare Advantage tends to be lucrative for insurers but can be a mixed bag for patients, who often have a limited choice of providers and that targeted plans would not necessarily solve that problem. Some also worry that the approach could end up being a new vector for discrimination. "It's strange to think about commodifying and profiting off people's racial and ethnic identities," said Naomi Zewde, an assistant professor at the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health. "We should do so with care and proceed carefully, so as not to be exploitive." Still, there's plenty of evidence that patients can benefit from care that is targeted to their race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. A November 2020 study of almost 118,000 patient surveys, published in JAMA Network Open, underscored the need for a connection between physician and patient, finding that patients with the same racial or ethnic background as their physicians are more likely to rate the latter highly. A 2022 survey of 11,500 people around the world by the pharmaceutical company Sanofi showed a legacy of distrust in health care systems among marginalized groups, such as ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ people, and people with disabilities. Clever Care, founded by Korean American health care executive Myong Lee, aimed from the start to create Medicare Advantage plans for underserved Asian communities, said Peter Winston, the senior vice president and general manager of community and provider development at the company. "When we started enrollments, we realized there is no one 'Asian,' but there is Korean, Chinese, Vietnamese, Filipino, and Japanese," Winston added. The company has separate customer service lines by language and gives members flexibility on how and where to spend their allowances for benefits like fitness programs. Winston said the plan began with 500 members in January 2021 and is now up to 14,000 (still very small compared with mainstream plans). Herbal supplement benefit dollars vary by plan, but more than 200 products traditionally used by Asian clients are on offer, with coverage of up to several hundred dollars per quarter. Sachin Jain, a physician and the CEO of SCAN Group, said its LGBTQ+ plan serves 600 members. "This is a group of people who, for much of their lives, lived in the shadows," Jain added. "There is an opportunity for us as a company to help affirm them, to provide them with a special set of benefits that address unmet needs." SCAN has run into bias issues itself, with some of its employees posting hate speech and one longtime provider refusing to participate in the plan, Jain recounted. Alignment Health offers a plan targeting Asian Americans in six California counties, with benefits such as traditional wellness services, a grocery allowance for Asian stores, nonemergency medical transportation, and even pet care in the event a member has a hospital procedure or emergency and needs to be away from home. Alignment also has an offering aimed at Latinos, dubbed el Unico, in parts of Arizona, Nevada, Texas, Florida, and California. The California product, an HMO co-branded with Rite Aid, is available in six counties, while in Florida and Nevada, it's a so-called special needs plan for Medicare beneficiaries who also qualify for Medicaid. All offer a Spanish-speaking provider network. Todd Macaluso, the chief growth officer for Alignment, declined to share specific numbers but said California membership in Harmony its plan tailored to Asian Americans and el Unico together has grown 80% year over year since 2021. Alignment's marketing efforts, which include visiting places where prospective members may shop or socialize, are about more than just signing up customers, Macaluso said. "Being present there means we can see what works, what's needed, and build it out. The Medicare-eligible population in Fresno looks very different from one in Ventura." "Just having materials in the same language is important, as is identifying the caller and routing them properly," Macaluso added. Blacks, Latinos, and Asians overall are significantly more likely than white beneficiaries to choose Medicare Advantage plans, according to recent research conducted for Better Medicare Alliance, a nonprofit funded by health insurers. (Latino people can be of any race or combination of races.) But it's not clear to what extent that will translate into the growth of targeted networks: Big insurers' Medicare Advantage marketing efforts often target specific racial or ethnic cohorts, but the plans don't usually include any special features for those groups. Utibe Essien, an assistant professor of medicine at UCLA, noted the historical underserving of the Black community, and that the shortage of Black physicians could make it hard to build a targeted offering for that population. Similarly, many parts of the country don't have a high enough concentration of specific groups to support a dedicated network. Still, all three companies are optimistic about expansion among groups that haven't always been treated well by the health care system. "If you treat them with respect, and bring care to them the way they expect it, they will come," Winston said. This article was produced by KFF Health News, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation. In a recent article published in Jama, researchers estimated the risks of death by suicide for six healthcare worker (HCW) groups and nonhealthcare workers in the United States of America (USA). Study: Suicide Risks of Health Care Workers in the US. Image Credit: Ground Picture/Shutterstock.com Background All HCWs, including physicians, manage heavy workloads while caring for severely ill patients and have little control over patient outcomes, which makes their occupation stressful and emotionally demanding. Thus, even though some of them might live longer and healthier lives than the general population, the risk of suicide for HCWs might be higher, too. Studies have investigated standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) due to suicide for physicians but not 95% of other HCWs. A recent meta-analysis of small-scale methodologically crude studies published during 1969-2018 found that suicide SMRs for female and male physicians were 1.94 and 1.24, respectively. In past decades, risks of suicide among physicians might have declined, but information concerning suicide risks among other HCWs is scarce. About the study In the present cohort study, researchers used a USA-wide representative sample of 1,842,000 HCWs from the 2008 American Community Survey (ACS) linked to National Death Index records to determine their cause of death. All ACS participants were aged 26 years and comprised six types of HCWs, registered nurses, physicians, healthcarediagnosticians/treating practitioners (e.g., dentists), healthcare technicians, healthcare support workers (e.g., home health aides), and behavioral/social health workers (e.g., psychologists, counsellors). The main study outcome was death due to suicide among all HCWs per International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes- X60-X84, Y87, and U03, stratified by age and sex. The team computed suicide rates per 100,000 person-years with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), wherein all ACS participants aged 26 comprised the reference group. Further, the team used Cox proportional hazard regression models to estimate suicide hazard ratios (HRs) for all HCW groups versus non-healthcare workers while accounting for their baseline sociodemographic characteristics, including age, gender, race/ethnicity, marital and educational statuses, personal annual income, and region of residence (rural/urban), also adding personal income in secondary analyses as a potential mediator. The team measured event (suicide) time from the ACS survey to suicide or death from other causes till December 31, 2019. They also explored the interaction of an HCW gender with suicide hazard, however, without adjusting for multiple comparisons; thus, researchers cautioned judicious interpretation of CIs. Results Regarding baseline characteristics of all six HCW groups, the researchers noted that the highest percentage of physicians were men, while most registered nurses and healthcare support workers were women. The proportion of nonHispanic Black and Hispanic people in the healthcare support worker group was the highest. As expected, the income of healthcare support workers was the lowest, while that of physicians, registered nurses, and other healthcarediagnosticians/treating practitioners was highest. Compared to nonHCWs, registered nurses, healthcare support workers, and health technicians had markedly higher gender- and age-standardized suicide rates, while healthcarediagnosticians/treating practitioners had lower standardized suicide rates than nonHCWs. Even though suicide risk was not higher for physicians compared to nonHCWs, the CIs for this group were wide, and the sample size was constrained when gender-stratified. The secondary analyses controlling for personal income or ceasing follow-up at age 65 did not change these findings substantially. Likewise, the adjusted suicide hazards for these three HCW groups remained significantly higher even after controlling for potential confounders. Suicides among HCWs grew from 3.8 million to 6.6 million between 2008 and 2021 in the USA. Thus, these results are broadly consistent with studies showing that increased risks for mental health problems in HCWs, such as mood disorders, might affect their work, contributing to increased suicide risk. Intriguingly, adjusted Cox regression analyses suggested a stronger association between suicide risk and occupation among all female HCWs than among male workers (2 = 4.83; P = .03). Thus, future research might explore reasons for gender-related variations in occupational roles, stress, and job satisfaction. Studies might also explore specific healthcare work-related occupational exposures, e.g., the effect of burnout, that are associated with suicidal ideation and might contribute to suicide risk. Conclusions The current study analyzed risks of death by suicide in HCWs in a period before the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. During the pandemic, efforts to improve the mental health of HCWs received higher attention, which might lose momentum now as the pandemic has receded. However, it will remain crucial to identify and enhance specific work-related factors that contribute to mental health occupational risks of HCWs, especially registered nurses, health technicians, and support workers. Alongside, there is a need for workplace mental health interventions that make mental health services affordable and easy to access. Moreover, it would be important to ensure that HCWs do not have to face disciplinary action for seeking mental health treatment. St. Louis' largest health system, BJC HealthCare, plans to merge with Kansas City's second-largest, Saint Luke's Health System, uniting more than 28 hospitals on both sides of Missouri by the end of this year. The merger, which would span markets 250 miles apart and include facilities in neighboring Kansas and Illinois, is just one of the latest in a quickly consolidating hospital industry. Cross-market deals accounted for more than half of all hospital mergers and acquisitions during the last decade, according to a paper from experts on antitrust law. Today, nearly 60% of health systems operate multiple hospitals in different geographic markets. Not only are such deals more common, they can increase costs for patients. Merged hospitals in the same state but in different markets raised prices as much as 10% compared with other hospitals, researchers found after analyzing past deals. A separate study found stand-alone hospitals raised prices 17% after they were acquired by a hospital company in another market. But for some 50 years, federal regulators have not stepped in to prevent hospitals from merging with systems in other markets, according to antitrust law experts. Without federal intervention, states that have seen such megamergers, such as Michigan and California, are often left to wrestle with the complex question of how to respond, given the likelihood of higher prices for their residents. The Federal Trade Commission and the Justice Department are reviewing public comments on draft merger guidelines designed to crack down on mergers in multiple sectors, including health care. It's not yet clear if or how cross-market hospital mergers within a state could be affected. Still, the draft says consolidation should not "entrench or extend a dominant position" by extending into "new markets." But such cross-market mergers aren't quite a textbook case of a monopoly. When hospitals have bought up local rivals, knocking out their competition, federal regulators have intervened to block these traditional mergers to protect patients from the resulting loss of competition. In recent years, they helped stop proposed mergers in New Jersey, Utah, and Rhode Island. The thinking is that without local competition, prices increase and the quality of care decreases. It's harder to prove how cross-market mergers, like the one planned in Missouri, reduce competition if the hospitals do not operate within a single market, said Chris Garmon, an assistant professor at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, who researches hospital mergers. Regulators would have to prove the mergers don't just raise prices but also run afoul of the law by suppressing competition. "Thats why we havent seen a cross-market merger challenge yet. It's because its hard to tell the story of why this would be a problem," he said. The Federal Trade Commission did not answer questions from KFF Health News on its broader strategy around such deals or the BJC-Saint Luke's merger. Whether an investigation is underway is not public information, said Mitchell Katz, an agency spokesperson. After the FTC didn't stop cross-market hospital mergers in California and Michigan, those states landed poles apart in handling the deals. California won concessions after challenging a deal, while Michigan did not intervene. The FTC did closely examine the 2020 deal in Michigan between Spectrum Health, based in Grand Rapids, and the Detroit area's Beaumont Health. Still, it ultimately didn't oppose the marriage that created the state's largest hospital chain, Corewell Health, with 22 hospitals in regions more than 150 miles apart. The lack of intervention frustrated some, including Bret Jackson, CEO of the Economic Alliance for Michigan, a nonprofit that helps employers wrangle health costs. Spectrum was already the more expensive operator, said Jackson. He worries Beaumont prices will rise to match Spectrum's once the insurance contracts with the individual hospital systems expire. "They're not going to want to take a pay cut," Jackson said of Spectrum. "We're really concerned about it." Jackson said that he was already fed up with rising hospital prices and that so are the automotive companies and laborers he represents. Health costs consume about 10% of a typical U.S. family's income. Ellen Bristol, a Corewell Health spokesperson, did not address KFF Health News questions about patient costs but said that the collaboration is improving quality statewide and creating efficiencies that help the company navigate economic headwinds. Even though regulators did not step in, FTC staffers and Michigan's Department of the Attorney General volleyed emails back and forth for months, according to communications obtained by KFF Health News through a public records request from the state. The FTC asked the attorney general's office to connect its staffers to employers and state officials, plus provide information and data on the health care landscape in the state, the emails show. The FTC interviewed executives from BorgWarner, an automotive supplier, and CMS Energy, a utility company. Jackson said he, too, was interviewed by the FTC, which he said was less interested in his thoughts on the deal than in Michigan's market dynamics. It's hard to glean much from the FTC's assessment of the merger because many of the emails the state supplied to KFF Health News are redacted. But they do illustrate what information and which people the FTC consulted to reach a decision. The emails also suggest state officials were made aware of the FTC's findings. On the evening of Jan. 13, 2022, an assistant AG sent a lengthy email to Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel about the FTC's review of possible antitrust implications, according to the subject line. In the version provided to KFF Health News, though, the entire email except for the greeting and the signature was blacked out. The next day, other emails show, hospital officials began discussing final language with the AG's office for a press release announcing the deal would soon close. Michigan did not move to block the deal or investigate further. Danny Wimmer, a spokesperson for Nessel, a Democrat, said the deal fell outside the authority of her office, further frustrating Jackson, of the Economic Alliance for Michigan. "We need to give state regulators the tools to at least assess mergers in the health care system," Jackson said. Nessel's position is not the attitude taken in all states. A 2020 merger agreement in California between Huntington Hospital in Pasadena and Cedars-Sinai Health System, with its flagship hospital in Los Angeles, attracted the attention of then-state Attorney General Xavier Becerra, who imposed conditions, such as price caps to protect consumers. Becerra, a Democrat who is now Health and Human Services secretary, had argued the cross-market merger would lead to higher prices. Employers relied on having both Cedars-Sinai and Huntington Hospital in their networks to ensure adequate access to all employees scattered across the massive Los Angeles region with a population larger than that of most states which California officials said has several distinct markets serving patients. If the two were to combine, employers would have to accept price hikes to maintain access to both entities, according to an analysis the AG's office commissioned. Health systems can "threaten to create important holes in a health plan's provider network," the analysis said, by refusing to include all hospitals, giving the system greater leverage to extract higher prices from the health plan. Cedars-Sinai and Huntington sued the AG over the conditions imposed on the merger. Ultimately, the parties settled on revised conditions, which included a 10-year ban on all-or-nothing contracting with insurers and a cap on price increases for five years. The settlement allowed Cedars-Sinai to expand access while reflecting a shared goal of "keeping healthcare affordable," said Duke Helfand, a spokesperson for Cedars-Sinai. Still, it was considered a win for antitrust enforcers, with implications that could reverberate across the country, some health economists said. In Missouri, the key question is whether state officials will intervene. Attorney General Andrew Bailey, a Republican, is reviewing the merger, which requires his office's approval before it can close, said Madeline Sieren, a spokesperson for the AG. Neither BJC nor Saint Luke's answered questions from KFF Health News about potential price increases or plans to improve quality. The hospitals have estimated the merged system will generate annual revenue topping $10 billion. The Missouri systems ought to explain how this merger will benefit patients by lowering costs and improving quality, Garmon said. "Whether they actually do them or not depends on whether they actually have the incentive to do them," Garmon said. This article was produced by KFF Health News, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation. Oman Air, the official carrier of Oman, will begin offering a direct service between Keralas Thiruvananthapuram International Airport and Muscat, the capital city of Oman from Sunday, October 1, 2023. With a capacity for 162 people, the service will be flown by a Boeing 737 aircraft. The service will be offered from Thiruvananthapuram on Sundays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. On Sundays and Wednesdays, the aircraft from Muscat will arrive at 7:45 am and depart at 8:45 am. On Thursdays, the arrival time is 1:55 pm, and the departure time is 4:10 pm. In addition, the arrival time on Saturdays will be 2:30 pm, and the departure time will be 3:30 pm, according to a press release issued by the airport authorities on Tuesday, September 26, 2023. Oman Air will be the second carrier in the Thiruvananthapuram-Muscat sector. On this route, Air India Express operates daily services. Currently, the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport oversees an average of 12,000 passengers and operates 82 aircraft movements in a single day. In the first quarter of 2023-24, the airport recorded nearly 1.04 million passenger movements, the release mentioned. The airport had over 1.04 million passenger movements in the first quarter of 2023-24, the release further added. On the other hand, SalamAir, Omans budget airline, has announced that it will cease operations on October 1, 2023 according to the Times of Oman. Also, the bookings will be null and void, as per the report, but passengers will be refunded for their reservations beginning October 1, this year. Reportedly, SalamAir will temporarily cease its flights to India, citing difficulties in air rights distribution as the key cause for this unexpected move. SalamAir offers low-cost flights to four Indian cities: Jaipur, Lucknow, Calicut, and Thiruvananthapuram for expats residing in Oman. The travel companies have also been alerted of SalamAirs decision to suspend all operations to India, according to the report. SalamAir has further made a remarkable effort to alleviate the discomfort of impacted passengers. Passengers who had booked flights to India would receive a full refund, according to the airline. Those who are entitled for refunds can begin the process right away by contacting SalamAir directly. Passengers may also use well-known travel agencies. This customer-focused strategy seeks to ensure that all travellers are promptly repaid for the entire amount of their ticket purchase. The cancellation of SalamAirs flights to India is definitely a huge blow for customers, particularly those travelling to and from Oman. The US imposed sanctions on five companies and two individuals from Iran, China, Hong Kong, Turkey, and the UAE. All of them were involved in the purchase of components for the production of Iranian drones. Remnants of such parts have already been found in the Shahed-136s used by Russia to attack Ukraine. ADVERTISIMENT This is stated in the report of the US Treasury Department. Legal entities and individuals are included in the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) SDN list. The individuals on this list are subject to a number of restrictions, including freezing of all assets in the U.S. jurisdiction, as well as the assets of any other companies that conduct transactions with the SDNs; a ban for US citizens on any transactions with such companies and individuals. It is noted that a whole network of companies was involved in the purchase of components for the Shaheds. The firms contributed both directly to the supplies and to the financial transactions of their implementation. "Iran is supplying Russia with Shahed-136 UAVs to support Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine. One of the servo motors purchased by the designated network was found in the remains of a Russian Shahed-136 recently shot down in Ukraine," the US agency said in a statement. ADVERTISIMENT US sanctions have been imposed on the following companies and individuals: Pishgam Electronic Safeh Company (PESC) (Iran) and its director. It is noted that the company purchased thousands of servo motors worth hundreds of thousands of dollars for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (SSJO ASF IRGC). Iranian resident Hamid Reza Jangorbani, who is the chief executive officer of PESC, is also on the sanctions list. Hongkong Hongkong Himark (Hong Kong) and its representative (China) The company has completed several orders for servo motors worth more than $1 million for Iran's PESC Iran, and Hongkong Himark's official representative from the PRC, Fan Yang, actively worked on these deals. He sold several thousand servo motors to PESC and also falsified invoices to conceal the final Iranian customer. ADVERTISIMENT Dal Enerji and Anka Port (Turkey) The companies facilitated PESC's financial transactions with Hongkong Himark, providing PESC with access to the U.S. and international financial systems. Dal Enerji also helped to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars for the illegal sale of Iranian petrochemical products in support of the sanctioned Iran Chemical Industries Investment Company (ICIIC). Farhad Ghaedi (UAE) Facilitated the shipment of thousands of spare parts through Dubai for further delivery to PESC in Iran. As reported by OBOZREVATEL, Iranian-designed Shahed-131 kamikaze drones are assembled using more than fifty elements from Western countries. In the latest UAVs launched by the occupiers, 52 electrical components from Western companies were found. Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! The Union Public Service Commission Civil Service Examination (UPSC CSE) and other competitive exams are conducted to find out how sharp the prospective candidates mind is. Some tricky questions are asked in these exams to test the intelligence level along with the presence of the minds of selected candidates. At times, certain questions during the interview round could be quite strange but their answers are simple. Today, we are sharing a few such questions which are asked in most of the competitive exams. These answers are easy and all you need to put some thought into it. Question 1: What is the difference between forest and jungle? Answer- A forest refers to a large area of land covered with trees, plants and various types of vegetation in a complex ecosystem that is found in both equational and tropical climatic zones. Jungle refers to an area of land covered with trees and dense, impenetrable vegetation. Question 2: Which part of the body never grows from childhood to old age? Answer- Eye Question 3: What can you buy for Rs 10 that will fill the entire room? Answer- You can buy incense sticks or candles for Rs 10. Their light and fragrance will fill the entire room. Question 4: What is that thing which is bought for eating but is not eaten? Answer- Plate Question 5: Why do we drink water? Answer- We drink water because we cannot eat or chew it. Question 6: How can we write 23 using only 2? Answer- 22+(2/2) Question 7: Which gold item is not available at the goldsmiths place? Answer- A Cot, it is used for sleeping and cannot be found at the goldsmiths place. Question 8: How can a man live without sleeping for 10 days? Answer- You can complete your sleep at night by not sleeping during the day. Question 9: What will be the opposite of Nag Panchami? Answer: Naag Do Not Punch Me! Question 10: 2 is called company and 3 is called crowd. What will be 4 and 5 in this way? Answer- 4 and 5 are always 9. A state-wide bandh has been scheduled for tomorrow, September 29 in Karnataka by pro-Kannada organisations. Nearly all governmental and private services, including taxis and public transit, are anticipated to be impacted by the Karnataka Bandh. Schools and colleges are expected to be impacted and are expected to remain closed tomorrow. However, as of right now, there hasnt been any official announcement on how the state-wide bandh on September 29 would affect schools and colleges. The government authorities will conduct an assessment of the situation at hand before making a decision. As a show of opposition against the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu, a state-wide bandh has been declared. In solidarity of the bandh, cab services such as Ola and Uber will be suspended on September 29. As a result, commuting throughout the day will become challenging for the general population. Schools and institutions in the state will close only after an official announcement has been made and conveyed. As per reports, several private schools are also considering the option of conducting online classes on the day of the Karnataka bandh. It is recommended that students and parents remain in contact with the administrators of their specific respective schools/ colleges for any updates on the closure due to the To compensate for the academic days lost owing to the bandhs caused by the Cauvery dispute, several Karnataka schools have opted to hold full-day sessions on Saturday, and in some instances even on Sunday for students in higher secondary classes. Several central board schools have reportedly already informed parents that full days of courses will be held on Saturday. Another possible option was to shorten the Dasara holidays, which are generally a 10-15 day break slated in the month of October. The General Secretary of the Associated Management of Primary and Secondary Schools in Karnataka, D Shashi Kumar, reportedly told Deccan Herald that they were considering reducing the duration of Dasara vacations. He pointed out that the bandh has already cost schools two days worth of classes this month, with September 29 being the third. According to Shashi Kumar, the only option left is to conduct classes on Sundays and shorten the Dasara holiday. Meanwhile, in light of the Karnataka Bandh, Bangalore University has also postponed its 58th convocation, which was set to take place on September 29. Lakhs of Indian students who plan on pursuing higher education in Canada are in the wait-and-watch mode with diplomatic relations between the two counties plummeting to new depths following Ottawas allegation of New Delhis involvement in the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India has rejected the allegations as absurd and motivated and expelled a senior Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move to Ottawas expulsion of an Indian official. India has also suspended visa services for Canadians. Despite zero improvement in the situation for more than a week, most students dont wish to change their choice of destination to another country and are ready to wait it out for the next few months, say consulting firms who help students plan overseas education. According to the consultants, September is the time of the year that sees the highest student intake across universities and colleges in Canada. The month is nearly over but students who have paid up their application fee and were just awaiting visas have been the worst-hit. Akshay Chaturvedi, founder and chief executive officer (CEO) of Leverage Edu, one of the largest study-abroad consulting firms in the country, said that the initial panic has started to settle down, but uncertainty looms large until there is a pro-active communication from the Canadian universities on their strategy. While many universities have sent emails and posted alerts on their websites assuring the safety of students, there has been no word on processing of visa applications. There are three sets of students who are affected by the ongoing tension between the two countries. First, those who are already in Canada; second, those who are all paid up and awaiting visas; and third, those planning to go in the next intake, which is January-February, said Chaturvedi, whose firm has tie-ups with banks and other financial institutions to help students study abroad. The worst-hit are those in the second category, as their fee, which is around Rs 1.5 lakh-2 lakh, has been paid, but there has been no communication from the universities and colleges on whether they will refund the fee in case students plan to apply to higher education institutions in other countries or if the same can be carried forward to the next intake if and when the situation settles down. Most students aspiring to go to Canada, he said, are from middle-income backgrounds and the application fee is an important concern for them. Interestingly, most students still dont wish to change their destination of study and are hopeful of a resolution soon. We will not take any student applications for Canada until the government issues fresh directives for travel to Canada. We have been advising students to apply to universities in UK and US instead. But many students still want to watch out for the next few months, hoping that the political standoff will ease by then, Chaturvedi added. Post-pandemic, say consultants, there has been a massive uptick in the number of students applying for Canada, as colleges there are still affordable and work permits are easier as compared to others. The highest uptick of students though has been for the UK after it introduced post-study work visa rules last year, allowing international students to work in the country for two years upon graduation. Leverage Edu, among many other prominent consultancies, stopped accepting applications for Canadian higher education institutions soon after the central government issued a travel advisory on September 20 for those contemplating travel to Canada, citing it as unsafe amid anti-India activities. The advisory was rejected by the Justin Trudeau government, saying Canada was calm and safe for all. While India has suspended issuance of visas to Canadian nationals, so far there have been no changes in visa rules for Indian students applying to universities and colleges in Canada. According to consultancy firms, every year, 2.5 lakh-3 lakh students apply to Canadian universities and colleges, of whom at least 70% are from Punjab. Most students wanting to go to Canada are for post-graduation so that they can enrol in a college or a university and are able to get a work visa there. There are many colleges in Canada that are just run for enrolling as many international students who end up working there without engaging in serious studies, said another consultant who did not wish to be named. Tushar Sharma, an electrical engineer from Gujarat, who wanted to pursue Masters in food and nutrition technology from a university in Canada, said that he was to receive the offer letter from the university he had applied to, but it got stuck because of the recent situation. I was all set to go this October, but now that it has been delayed, I will wait till April next year to apply again. There has been no word from the university so far on the next course of action. I am not applying anywhere else at the moment. As the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations come to a close, the people in the country have left no unturned in making this occasion an unforgettable one. Many television stars and film actors were seen equally celebrating the festival with a lot of fervour. From welcoming Bappa into their house to sharing various glimpses from their celebration, social media has been swamped with sneak peeks into the lives of our favourite celebrities. Shraddha Arya, a popular TV face, recently offered a glimpse of her Ganesh Chaturthi celebration with close friends as we all prepare to bid goodbye to the lord. Shraddha Arya took to social media to provide her fans with a memorable glimpse of her Ganpati celebration. In these photos, the actress looks stunning in a pure white saree as she poses alongside the idol. She accessorised her ensemble with matching heavy jewellery that included a pendant necklace and drop earrings. She opted for minimal makeup with a touch of pink on her cheeks and a small bindi. The caption along with the pictures, read, Ganapati ji ke Darshan. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shraddha Arya (@sarya12) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Neha Adhvik Mahajan (@nehaadhvikmahajan) Her fans indeed loved her look. One of them said, Kitni pyari kitni innocent hai hamari shraddhu, while another remarked, Woww gorgeous queen. In another post, Shraddha also shared some candid moments with Adhvik Mahajan, Neha Mahajan, and some other friends. They all appear happy as they enjoy the event in magnificent clothes. Earlier, Shraddha Arya had posted some more pictures from her Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations at home. In the photographs, she is seen with her aarti plate ready to fully participate in the festivities and perform the rituals with devotion. The caption read, Om Gan Ganpatya Namo Namah: #HappyGaneshachaturthi. She wore a white saree with a blue blouse and tied her hair up in a sleek bun. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shraddha Arya (@sarya12) Shraddha Arya is currently seen essaying the role of Preeta in Zee TVs Kundali Bhagya and rose to fame with this show. She recently made a cameo in the Karan Johar directorial Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. Shraddha made her TV debut with Indias leading Cinestars Ki Khoj, which aired in 2007. She was also a part of Ram Gopal Vermas Nishabd. Shraddha played the lead role in the hit show Main Lakshmi Tere Aangan Ki and has appeared in various other shows, including Tumhari Paakhi, Dream Girl Ek Ladki Deewani Si, and others. A year after India expressed concerns over a Chinese spy ship in Sri Lanka, another research vessel is headed for visit to the island nation. Shi Yan 6 ship has entered the Indian Ocean and is expected to reach Sri Lanka next month to carry out research along with the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA). As per reports, the ship will make trip to the Sri Lankan ports of Colombo and Hambantota for a span of 17 days to conduct an ocean survey. The United States has already raised concerns with Sri Lanka with Under Secretary Victoria Nuland meeting Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session and raising concerns about the upcoming visit of the Chinese vessel. Indian officials have also expressed concerns to Colombo. All About SHI YAN 6 According to Chinese state broadcaster CGTN, Shi Yan 6 is a scientific research vessel crewed by 60 that carries out oceanography, marine geology and marine ecology tests. The vessel has a carrying capacity of 1115 DWT and the current draught is reported to be 5.3 metres in length overall 90.6 metres and width 17 metres. As per reports, Shi Yan 6 was a key project of Chinas 13th Five Year Plan for science and education infrastructure construction. The vessel was built in 2020 and successfully conducted its maiden voyage to the eastern Indian Ocean in 2022. According to China, the research ship is out on an expeditionary voyage in the eastern part of the Indian Ocean, after it had left Guangzhou in Chinas Guangdong Province. Why It Has raised Concerns? China has often used Sri Lankan ports for docking its surveillance ships raising concerns for India over spying of latters strategic assets in the Indian Ocean Region. Chinese research ships like Shi Yan 6 often have dual purposes. While the primary aim is scientific exploration, the vessels also have geopolitical purposes for which they are also deployed. India has on several occasions said that it considers the Indian Ocean Region as an area of traditional influence and will not tolerate any challenges to its sovereignty and legitimate strategic interests. The Chinese ships also pose risks to the security of the Kudankulam and Kalpakkam nuclear reactors, as well as for the Chennai and Thoothukudi ports, which are in close proximity of the Sri Lankan port. The Sri Lankas defence ministry had cleared the visit of the Chinese ship while the foreign ministry is yet to comment publicly on the matter. Sri Lankas Foreign Ministry last month said it is currently processing a request by China to allow the research ship to dock in the country. The Chinese embassy here has made an application and the ministry is currently looking at it, Priyanga Wickramasingha, the foreign ministry spokesperson, had said. Why China Deploys Ships in Sri Lanka China despatches its research/surveillance vessels to Sri Lanka on a regular basis. In August this year, the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army Navy warship HAI YANG 24 HAO arrived in the country on a two-day visit. It was reported that the arrival of the 129-metre-long ship was delayed due to concerns raised by India. In August last year, a Chinese ballistic missile and satellite tracking ship, Yuan Wang 5, arrived in Hambantota amid security concerns raised by New Delhi. According to reports, Yuan Wang 5 is a dual-use ship, with an ability to spy on Indian military establishment in the area. The ship has been described as research and survey vessel by international shipping and analytical sites. Sri Lanka developed the Hambantota port, leasing it out to China for 99 years in 2017. Moreover, the Sri Lankan government has little control over the administration of the Hambantota Port. Bengaluru witnessed a massive traffic jam on Wednesday as vehicles remained stuck in queues for several hours causing inconvenience to the commuters. The congestion was reported in Outer Ring Road (ORR), which experienced unusual traffic prompting the traffic police to issue an advisory to the IT companies to delay the logouts. The jam was so bad that some schoolchildren reached their home by nightfall, hours after leaving their schools in the afternoon, according to posts shared on X (formerly Twitter). Many commuters, who remained stuck in jam for long hours, took to social media to share their plight. According to police, the traffic flow suddenly increased between 5 pm and 8 pm as many office-goers started returning home. This is a disgraceful statement from the government. Instead of making excuses, maybe admit that Bangalore has no public transport, terrible drainage, badly maintained roads and poor city planning. My children returned from school at 9 pm, and these guys are blaming the citizens. pic.twitter.com/v9FvImQBHQ Ritesh Banglani (@banglani) September 27, 2023 A congestion heat map shared by the traffic police showed 197 congestion alerts between Tin Factory and Silk Board on regular Wednesdays. However, on September 27 congestion alerts increased to a whopping 1,069. The unusual traffic was also attributed to the long weekend and bandh called by farmer bodies against the release of Cauvery River water to Tamil Nadu. Vehicle count Twice Than Normal The Bengaluru traffic on Wednesday was twice than on a normal day. While the vehicle count on Wednesdays is 1.5 lakh to 2 lakh, on September 27, the vehicular count reached a whopping 3.5 lakh as of 7:30 pm, according to the traffic department. Bengaluru's tech hub, ORR, faced an unprecedented traffic jam, trapping techies, office-goers, and school buses for almost 4 hours. The Baiyappanahalli-KR Pura metro link, could have eased this, but the State Govt's inaction, despite CMRS approval, prolongs the suffering. pic.twitter.com/LJEelVPRIU P C Mohan (@PCMohanMP) September 27, 2023 According to a report in Moneycontrol, 6.4 lakh employees commute between Silk Board and KR Puram daily, using 3.3 lakh vehicles, including personal cars and cabs. Long weekend Many people headed out of the city due to a long weekend from Thursday. Eid Milad-Un Nabi, a gazetted holiday, will be celebrated on Thursday, while the city will be shut on Friday as the protestors have called for a state-wide bandh over Cauvery water dispute. The coming Monday (October 2) after the weekend is also a national holiday on account of Mahatma Gandhis birth anniversary. Waterlogging due to Rains The continuous rainfall in the tech city also led to waterlogging on several interior roads, which remained uncleared and worsened traffic congestion, according to Moneycontrol. The heavy rains also caused the formation of multiple potholes, impeding the smooth flow of traffic. Vehicle breakdowns There were six vehicle breakdowns reported between 3:30 pm and 5 pm on ORR, which is already narrowed due to ongoing Metro construction. The breakdowns further aggravated the traffic congestion. In order to ease traffic congestion, the Bengaluru city police in August 2023 suggested various traffic-reduction measures to companies including staggered office timings, carpooling options, and dedicated buses for employees. Bengalurus Long-standing Problem With Bengaluru being one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, traffic congestion has emerged as a top concern, causing immense frustration and wastage of valuable time for its residents. The citys traffic is considered one of the major or slowest traffic nationwide. As per a recent report, the IT hub suffers nearly Rs 20,000 crore per year from the situations created by traffic such as congestion, delays, stoppage at signals, loss of time and fuel loss, among others. The city has been grown in size from 88 square kilometers to 985 square kilometers this year, and the number likely to climb in the future. A woman travelling on an international flight with her four-year-old son and 83-year-old mother-in-law, suffered a second-degree burn on her leg after an attendant spilled hot water on her and left it unattended. Air India, however, issued an apology and said it had taken serious note of the incident. According to a report published by Hindustan Times, the passenger described her harrowing experience on social media, where she said the injury eventually left her bedridden. She indirectly slammed the airline saying the incident had proven the crews lack of training and professionalism. The woman, identified as Charu Tomar who was on a flight bound for San Francisco from Delhi, said she felt excruciating pain on her right leg after the crew member hot spilled hot water on her right leg. To my shock, the crew members initially ran away from the situation, she said in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Tomar said the crew was slow in their response to the situation and made inadequate efforts to resolve it despite her pleas to give her something to ease her pain. She said she had to scream and cry for help when a doctor on board offered her medical aid and diagnosed her with a second-degree burn. However, the flight lacked essential medical supplies, and the treatment was far from ideal I endured severe pain for nearly two hours in flight with no pain medication or proper first aid kit available, she added. Tomar further said a team of paramedics had to evacuate her as the crew was least interested in providing her care. Her family members were also left unattended, she said. Air India apologised and said the crew immediately administered first aid to the passenger. The crew immediately administered first aid to the guest and paged for a doctor on board, who attended to the affected guest. A team of paramedics assisted the guest upon arrival at San Francisco. We have expressed our sincere apologies to the guest, whom our teams have been in touch with to offer all further assistance including medical care, said a spokesperson from the airline. With India and Canada seeing new lows in their relations over the death of a Khalistani separatist leader, News18 spoke to two former Research and Analysis Wing (RA&W) chiefs and other IPS officers, who had also served in the intelligence gathering unit, to understand the diplomatic and administrative ramifications of the row. They said removing diplomats over a geo-political row is quite a common practice but if a foreign country has enough evidence to substantiate an allegation against the official, the concerned government always asks the particular diplomats home country to strip him or her of the immunity. Until that point is reached, allegations and counter allegations are part of international politics and arm-twisting of some lobby groups, they explained. Justin Trudeau had last week accused the agents of India of their involvement in the killing of pro-Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a Gurdwara in Surrey on June 18. Nijjar, 45, was the leader of banned Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF). Even though the Canadian Prime Minister spoke about credible allegations shared with India at House of Commons, there has not been any report of initiating a formal process by his government or registering a case against any officer serving in Indian mission in Canada. As an immediate action, following the accusation, Canada expelled a senior IPS (Indian Police Service) officer, who was on deputation, and was serving as a diplomat in the mission. The IPS officers expulsion by the Canadian government has created ripples in its national as well as international politics, even in India. The experts say a country can expel a diplomat for many reasons, including the allegations made by the Canadian government that mention an officer of Punjab cadre running an agentry in Canada who played a key role in Nijjars killing. But allegations, until established with evidence, are always treated as political and not a diplomatic crisis, the experts stressed. More Political, Less of a Diplomatic Crisis All countries have intelligence gathering units that include international and national agencies which have different names but some are anonymous too. Presence of RAW officers or other intelligence gathering units in a foreign mission are also not unique. The Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of External Affairs routinely seek nominations from the state governments or applications from the officers for international deputations. IPS officers get posted to foreign locations who also serve in Indian missions for assignments including peace keeping forces, RAW, as supervising authority or part of security detail in the missions. In several cases, the IPS officers have been posted as part of the administrative or consular unit of the missions. A former RAW chief spoke to News18 on condition of anonymity on the issue of diplomats expulsion. For RAW or any such intelligence gathering unit of a country, such instances are routine and normal. If a foreign government finds out that an officer serving in a mission is creating trouble for them, they generally declare him or her as persona non grata and expel. But that does not necessarily mean that the officer is accused of some mischief. If the concerned foreign government has evidence, documents or proofs to substantiate their accusations, they may detain the officer and ask his or her home country to strip the diplomatic immunity, following which the officer can be arrested. But these instances are rare. In the current India-Canada row, as much as we can analyse with available documents and inputs, it looks like more of political exchanges, and less of a real diplomatic crisis, he added. Another senior officer who served in RAW said, India and Pakistan witnessed similar situations earlier. These kinds of situations are very common between the US and China, or the US and Russia. However, all governments always try to protect the officers identity, exposing an officer like this, not taking immediate actions against the posters or threats coming the officers way is not the manner these situations are dealt with. Teams from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) visited the offices of Rahat Rao, an alleged ISI plant, in Surrey and questioned him for two hours in connection with the murder of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, sources told News18. Sources added that Rao was asked to delete all posts from his social media pages in front of the RCMP personnel. RCMP did not disclose the reason for their visit publicly, but it was possibly related to his knowledge about the killing of Nijjar, a source said. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has alleged that the Indian government was behind the killing of Nijjar, 45, outside a gurdwara in Surrey in British Columbia on June 18. India had designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020. India has rejected the allegations as absurd and motivated and expelled a senior Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move to Ottawas expulsion of an Indian official. India has also asked Canada to crack down on terrorists and anti-India elements operating from its soil and suspended visa services for Canadians. News18 had earlier reported that the hand of Pakistans spy agency ISI is suspected to be behind Nijjars killing. Sources had told News18 that Rahat Rao and Tariq Kiyani are ISI plants in Canada, doing the maximum work for the spy agency. They are even handling the terrorists who come from India and are on the wanted list. Sources said Nijjar may have been killed for business reasons and that Rao and Kiyani may have wanted to control the drug business. Sources said the trio of Rao, Kiyani and Gurpatwant Singh Pannun possibly laid the trap to control the drug and immigration business which is the main source of income for them. Amid Canadas allegations of Indias potential involvement in the killing of Nijjar, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that New Delhi conveyed to Ottawa that it is not the government of Indias policy and it is open to looking at specific and relevant information in the case. Jaishankar made the comments in a conversation at the Council on Foreign Relations in New York on Tuesday after addressing the UN General Assembly session. Yes, I do have a comment. Ill share with you very frankly what we told the Canadians, Jaishankar said when asked if he had any comment. One, we told the Canadians that this is not the government of Indias policy, Jaishankar said. Two, we told the Canadians saying that look, if you have something specific, if you have something relevant, let us know. We are open to looking at it, Jaishankar said while responding to a question from former US Ambassador to India and CFR Distinguished Fellow Kenneth Juster, in his first public comments on the issue. Jaishankar asserted that one must also understand the context because the picture is not complete without the context of it. You also have to appreciate that in the last few years, Canada actually has seen a lot of organised crime relating to the secessionist forces, organised crime, violence, extremism. Theyre all very, very deeply mixed up, he said. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a supplementary charge sheet against four persons, including a designated terrorist, in the Thane fake currency case, an official said on Thursday. The charge sheet was filed in a special court in Mumbai on Wednesday under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, the official said. Besides the designated terrorist Uncle alias Javed Patel alias Javed Chikna those charge-sheeted have been identified as Riyaz Shikilkar, Mohammad Fayaaz Shikilkar and Nasir Chaudhari, all residents of Mumbai, a spokesperson of the federal agency said. Fayaaz has also been charged under the Arms Act, the official said. The Thane police had in April last year charge-sheeted three accused in the case which was originally registered following the seizure of 149 high-quality counterfeit Indian currency notes of Rs 2,000 denomination from Riyaz Shikilkar. Subsequently, the NIA took over the case. After investigations, it arrested Fayaaz in May for possession of illegal arms, the official said. The investigations also revealed that Fayaaz was in contact with the designated terrorist Uncle through WhatsApp and had conspired to carry out unlawful activities in India. He had also received funds sent by Uncle through his associate Bhai. Uncle, a wanted accused, had committed acts of terror through his associates by possessing and circulating high-quality fake Indian currency notes with the aim of damaging the monetary stability of India, the spokesperson said quoting the charge sheet. Azerbaijan and China discussed the specific steps to strengthen cooperation in the direction of the development of the Middle Corridor, Azernews reports, citing a post on X by the Azerbaijani Digital Development and Transport Minister Rashad Nabiyev. The post reads: "During the visit to China, we met with the leadership of the Railway Administration. We discussed the development of cooperation between the two countries in the field of railways. Specific steps were identified to strengthen cooperation between the countries in the direction of increasing freight turnover with China and the development of the Middle Corridor. Azerbaijan and China discussed five concrete steps to strengthen cooperation in the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, also known as the Middle Corridor. This route is an important transport artery that will contribute to the development of trade and economic relations between the two countries. Besides, the training of pilots and the organization of training for this purpose was also discussed between Azerbaijan and China. The Kupyansk direction is now a priority for the Russian army, as the enemy is planning to distract the Ukrainian Defense Forces from other areas of the front where they are having success. The occupants are conducting reconnaissance to find out the positions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and are shelling this area with guided aerial bombs. ADVERTISIMENT This was stated by the head of the Kharkiv regional military administration, Oleh Syniehubov, on Wednesday, September 27. The official was quoted by his press service (to watch the video, scroll to the bottom of the page). The head of the regional military administration noted that the troops of the aggressor country are not yet conducting active assault operations in the Kupiansk direction, but sabotage and reconnaissance groups are moving forward in search of our positions. The occupants are shelling bridge crossings, attacking Kupyansk and this area in general. According to Syniehubov, this indicates that the enemy is preparing for future assault operations. "They do this in waves - first they accumulate a sufficient number of troops, then they conduct assault operations. Then the defenders of Ukraine suffer quite serious damage, the enemy rotates again and prepares for assaults again," said Syniehubov. ADVERTISIMENT Earlier, the head of the press service of the Eastern Group of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Ilya Yevlash, said that as of September 27, the situation in the Liman-Kupyansk direction remains difficult but controlled. Russian troops are forming 12 assault companies there - about two thousand soldiers. The enemy is forming its defense and building fortifications. Yevlash emphasized that such a concentration of aggressor troops does not mean that all of them are involved in combat. There are also many support units. ADVERTISIMENT As OBOZREVATEL previously reported, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said that the Russian army may be preparing for new offensives in the Kupyansk sector. To do this, the enemy is trying to find weaknesses in our defense. Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington on Thursday, amid the diplomatic rumpus between India and Canada stirred over the killing of a Khalistani separatist. Although officials from both sides are tightlipped about the agenda of the meeting, the latest diplomatic crisis between two of Americas friends, its traditional ally Canada and India, is expected to come up prominently during the talks. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will meet US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday amidst the ongoing diplomatic turmoil between India and Canada, surrounding the demise of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Although both sides remained tight-lipped about the meetings specific agenda, the recent diplomatic discord between India and its long-standing ally, Canada, is anticipated to feature prominently in the discussions. Blinken and Jaishankar met in New York on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session on Friday, September 22. However, when Miller was asked about the conversation between between Jaishankar and Blinken, he said that the UNGA meeting was not a bilateral one and that the India-Canada diplomatic issue did not come up. The two leaders are expected to participate in a photo session prior to the meeting and are not anticipated to entertain questions from the media. While the meeting had been arranged well before the Canadian crisis unfolded, the US has been pressing India to collaborate with the Canadian investigation into the early-year incident involving the Sikh separatist, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, in British Columbia. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has accused the Indian government of orchestrating the killing of the 45-year-old Nijjar outside a gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18. India had officially labeled Nijjar a terrorist in 2020. India has dismissed these claims as baseless and biased, responding by expelling a senior Canadian diplomat in a reciprocal measure to Ottawas expulsion of an Indian official. Furthermore, India has called upon Canada to take decisive action against terrorists and individuals with anti-India affiliations operating from its territory, leading to the suspension of visa services for Canadians. State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller clarified that this matter was not discussed during the Quad ministerial meeting held in New York, which involved foreign ministers from the US, India, Japan, and Australia. As it was a gathering of multiple nations, this topic did not arise. However, the State Department spokesperson emphasized that they have engaged with their Indian counterparts on this issue and have urged them to offer full cooperation to the Canadian investigation. (With inputs from PTI) For Mumbai, it was a day to celebrate with great pomp and fervour but some also got emotional as they immersed the idols of Lord Ganesh amid the beating of drums and chants of Ganpati Bappa Morya. Roads leading to idol immersion sites in Mumbai on Thursday were reverberating with the music of dhol tasha as devotees bid farewell to Bappa, marking the culmination of the 10-day festival. Since early in the day, huge crowds gathered at various places in the city to catch a glimpse of their favourite deity, as decked-up idols of Lord Ganesh in various forms and sizes were taken out of pandals for their final journey, accompanied by music, dance and prayers. The festival, which began with Ganesh Chaturthi on September 19, concludes on the Anant Chaturdashi on Thursday with the immersion of idols in the Arabian Sea and other water bodies. Lalbaugcha Raja In Mumbais Lalbaug area, famous for celebrating the festival with grandeur, the procession of idols of Tejukaya and Ganesh Gully mandals started with chants of Ganapati Bappa Morya, Pudhchya Varshi Lavkar Ya (come soon next year Lord). The procession of the famous Lalbaugcha Raja idol, which attracts a maximum number of devotees during the 10-day festival, started at around 11.30 am. A large number of people were seen waiting on both sides of roads for the final darshan of the idol. VIDEO | The visarjan procession of Mumbais Lalbaugcha Raja begins.#GaneshVisarjan #Ganeshotsav2023 pic.twitter.com/4Amnu4tlcy Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 28, 2023 Thousands of people gathered on the streets of Lalbaug and other major procession routes of Ganesh idols to bid farewell to the deity with heartfelt prayers and witness the vibrant processions being taken out with music, dance and sprinkling of gulal (vermillion powder). There was also a large gathering of people at Lalbaugs Shroff building to witness pushpavrusti (showering of flowers) on the Ganesh idols. Crowds also assembled on the main road leading to Girgaon in south Mumbai, from where the maximum number of processions pass. These include the processions of Ganesh idols from Fort, Girgaon, Mazgaon, Byculla, Dadar, Matunga, Sion, Chembur and other areas. 7,950 idols Immersions Across Mumbai A total of 7,950 idols had been immersed, comprising 7,513 household ones, 329 sarvajanik or public idols and 108 of goddess Gauri, a Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation official said. The official said there was no report of any other untoward incident during the immersions across the metropolis till evening. As per civic data, 2,199 of 7,950 idols were immersed in artificial ponds set up by the civic body. The 2,199 idols comprise 2,096 household idols, 63 sarvajanik ones and 40 of goddess Gauri, the official added. A steady stream of visitors starts arriving at the ancestral house of Shaheed Bhagat Singh every morning in Khatkar Kalan village in Punjab. The usual opening time for the house is 10am but the staff does open it a bit early so as to not make people wait. The Bhagwant Mann government in Punjab has tried to bring the revolutionary freedom fighter to the centre of the Punjabi consciousness since it came to power last year. The chief minister put up Bhagat Singhs pictures in all government offices, addressed all press conferences with Singhs picture in the background and even wore the same colour turban as Singh. On his birth anniversary on September 28, the AAP government in Punjab has placed full-page advertisements in all newspapers. About a two-and-a-half-hour drive from state capital Chandigarh, Singhs ancestral village is hard to miss on the main highway to Amritsar. Giant hoardings announce the village from kilometres away and bright billboards with Singhs picture at the entry of the village would make one stop for a look. A big museum at the villages entry is under renovation when News18 visited earlier this month, which is a bit of a dampener for visitors. But the road leading from the museum to his ancestral house in the village has been beautifully done up with wall paintings depicting Bhagat Singhs life and key moments of the same. One big wall painting depicts his family chart and a picture of his parents. Another set of wall paintings depicts the key events of his life from the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, the killing of British officer John Saunders, the throwing of a bomb in the central assembly and the hanging of Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru. The ancestral house of Singh, a brick structure, has been preserved by the Punjab government with a well inside the house and rooms with Singhs chair and table and a bed can be seen by the visitors. People come from all parts of Punjab daily to see the house, the employees here told News18. A group of women had come from Sangrur who called it a matter of pride and some youngsters in another group said the life of Bhagat Singh is inspirational and gives them motivation to fight what is wrong. Another group of boys, however, is here just to take selfies. In Punjab, a state that continues to be riddled with the problem of drug abuse and unemployment, Bhagat Singhs Khatkar Kalan village stands out as an example of righteousness and inspiration. Locals speak of how, in the past, the drugs problem had rocked youngsters of even this village but things have improved now. Bhagat Singh believed in equality and unity. His message is there on the walls of Khatkar Kalan if people want to still read and emulate, an elderly man said. Amidst the soaring tension between India and Canada, EAM S Jaishankar is set to meet US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington DC today. The diplomatic crisis between two of Americas friends, its traditional ally Canada and India, is expected to come up during the talks. Meanwhile, sources have claimed that Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjars killing was plotted by ISI to put India on the back foot. On Wednesday, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted a raid at Canada-based Khalistani terrorist Arshdeep Singh aka Arsh Dallas residence and detained his aide Jones, alias Jora. The ties between New Delhi and Ottawa went sour after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged the Indian governments involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India termed the allegations as absurd and motivated and expelled a senior Canadian diplomat in a retaliatory move to Canada asking an Indian diplomat to leave the country. Latest Updates on India-Canada Row Indian intelligence agencies have raised red flag about Manipuri tribal association leaders meeting with alleged Khalistan supporters in Canada. Lien Gangte, president of the Canada chapter of NAMTA (North American Manipur Tribal Association) gave a speech last month at Surrey Gurudwara about the minorities in Manipur and what is happening to them. The Gurudwara in question was controlled by Nijjar. Indian Intelligence Agencies have claimed that post the speech, Nijjar supporters had a meeting with NAMTA. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) apprehended Jones, alias Jora, an accomplice of Arshdeep Singh aka Arsh Dalla during a raid at the latters residence in Firozpur on Wednesday. Sources have claimed that Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjars killing was plotted by ISI Amidst the diplomatic row with Canada, EAM S Jaishankar is set to meet US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington DC today. US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, We have urged our Indian counterparts to fully cooperate with the Canadian investigation. According to an exclusive CNN-News18 report, Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar was in constant touch with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) and had met senior officials six days before he was killed in June this year, his son has claimed. and had met senior officials six days before he was killed in June this year, his son has claimed. Speaking to ANI over the souring ties between New Delhi and Ottawa, Indian-American businessman Sant Singh Chatwal claimed that no one is supporting Khalistan. #WATCH | New York: On India-Canada row and on Khalistani extremism, Indian-American businessman Sant Singh Chatwal says, Im very clear that there are very, very less people over here. I dont know whos funding themIm proud to be a SikhThe leadership of PM Modi has done pic.twitter.com/HCdHCNZdyf ANI (@ANI) September 27, 2023 Police registered a case against a man in Palghar district of Maharashtra on Thursday on the charge of severely beating a 13-year-old boy, whom he illegally employed as his domestic help, for coming late to work, an official said. The incident occurred on Monday at Khamloli village in the district, he said. The accused, Rajendra Sitaram Patil, was booked under the Child Labour (Prohibition And Regulation) Act, the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, the police said. Apart from this, he was also booked under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 323 (voluntarily causing hurt), 506 (criminal intimidation) and 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace), they said. The victim boy and the accused live in the same village. Patil had employed the minor to look after his cattle at his house. The teenage boy had lost his mother several years back, while his father is a tuberculosis patient, an official of Manor police station said. The boy lived at the house of the accused, and was paid a salary of Rs 1,100 per month, he said. On September 25, the boy went out in the morning to have darshan of Ganesh idols in the village. While returning to the employers house, he saw some boys playing somewhere and joined them. Due to this, he reached the workplace late, he added. Angry with him for being late to work, Patil severely thrashed the boy and abused him. The boy went to his father and narrated the incident to him, the police official said. The victims father along with some villagers then went to Patils house to question him about why he beat his son. But the accused abused them as well. The group then approached the police and the boys father lodged a complaint with the police, they said. The accused has not been arrested so far and investigation into the case is on, the police official said. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has assured that those who kidnapped and killed the two Manipuri students will be arrested and punished, said Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh. A team of CBI officials, led by the agencys Special Director Ajay Bhatnagar, reached Manipur on Wednesday and began its probe into the matter which sparked outrage in the Imphal Valley, leading to two days of violent protests by students and youths on the streets of the state capital which left more than 60 people being injured. Talking to reporters, the Manipur Chief Minister, The central and state governments are very serious about this case. Union Home Minister Amit Shah-ji called me up yesterday evening and told me that he is sending a CBI team on a special flight to investigate the particular case. Shah said that this case has to be dealt with very seriously and those responsible have to be booked as per the law of the land and assured that no one will be spared, quoted Singh. Singh without disclosing the exact location informed reporters that after landing in Imphal, the CBI team has started its investigation. ALSO READ | Death of 2 Students: Specialised CBI Team to Visit Manipur to Expedite Probe As Protests Turn Violent The chief minister on Tuesday had announced that CBI officials will reach Manipur on Wednesday to investigate the kidnapping and killing of the two Manipuri students. The case with the disappearance if the two students began on July 6 and was transferred to the central agency on August 28. The photos of the students corpses went viral on social media, following which, students led massive protests in the state on Tuesday. In terms of protestors getting injured, Singh said that the government will not tolerate if security forces attack demonstrators with bullets or anything lethal, adding that in such cases, disciplinary action will be taken against them. If our children get unjustified treatment even from our own forces, disciplinary actions will be taken, Singh assured. Noting that objects made of iron were thrown at the security forces by miscreants during the demonstrations, Singh said that these agitations must be peaceful and should not be held in hyper-sensitive zones of the Governor and Chief Ministers offices. What is of concern, according to the chief minister, is the protection of the state and its people from illegal immigrants and drug mafia. Meanwhile, all the schools in the will be closed till Friday in view of the prevailing situation. Altogether 45 students were injured in the Imphal Valley on Tuesday as the police fired tear gas shells and baton-charged a mob protesting against the killing of two students who were allegedly kidnapped in July, officials said. The two students were identified as Phijam Hemjit (20) and Hijam Linthoingambi (17). Other than this, officials also said that the curfew relaxation in Imphal East and West districts has been cancelled from Wednesday 4 pm till further orders. Over 175 people lost their lives and several others were injured in the ethnic violence that broke out in Manipur on May 3, when a Tribal Solidarity March was organised in the hill districts to protest against the Meitei communitys demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipurs population and live mostly in the Imphal valley, while tribals, including Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40 per cent and reside mostly in the hill districts. (With inputs from PTI) Indian Scientist M S Swaminathan, known as the father of Indias Green Revolution, passed away on Thursday aged 98. Swaminathan played a key role in developing high-yielding varieties of paddy that enabled Indias farmers to produce more yield. After he was awarded the first World Food Prize in 1987, Swaminathan set up the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation in Chennai. Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the passing of Swaminathan and said, Deeply saddened by the demise of Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji. At a very critical period in our nations history, his groundbreaking work in agriculture transformed the lives of millions and ensured food security for our nation. Deeply saddened by the demise of Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji. At a very critical period in our nations history, his groundbreaking work in agriculture transformed the lives of millions and ensured food security for our nation. pic.twitter.com/BjLxHtAjC4 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 28, 2023 The scientist was also conferred with the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and the Padma Vibhushan. Swaminathan is the recipient of several other awards, including HK Firodia award, the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award and the Indira Gandhi Prize. His international awards include the Ramon Magsaysay Award (1971) and the Albert Einstein World Science Award (1986). The scientists wife Mina passed away in 2022 and he is now survived by his three daughters, Soumya Swaminathan, Madhura Swaminathan and Nitya Swaminathan. Who Was M S Swaminathan? Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan born on August 7, 1925 had the vision to rid the world of hunger and poverty. An advocate of sustainable development and preservation of bio-diversity, he has been described by the United Nations Environment Programme as the Father of Economic Ecology. Swaminathan had two bachelor degrees. One in Zoology and the other in Agricultural Science, however after experiencing the Bengal Famine in 1943, he made the decision of pursuing the field of agriculture. In 1960, when India was facing mass shortage of food, M S Swaminathan along with Norman Borlaug and other scientists developed the HYV (high yielding variety) seeds of wheat. He served as the Director General of Indian Council of Agricultural Research from 1972 to 1979 and International Rice Research Institute between 1982 to 1988. Swaminathan also served as the Principal Secretary of Ministry of Agricultural in 1979. How Did Green Revolution Start in India? A set of research technology transfer initiatives occurred between the 1950s and the late 1960s, that led to the increase of agricultural production across the world, this was termed as Green Revolution. In India, Green Revolution refers to a period when Indian agriculture was converted into an industrial system by the adoption of modern methods of farming like tractors, irrigation facilities, pesticides, and fertilizer and technology like the use of HYV seeds. A part of a larger initiative by Normal Borlaug, Green Revolution in India was founded by M S Swaminathan. The aim was to increase agricultural productivity in the developing world with the use of technology and agricultural research. One of the major milestones in the Green Revolution in India were the development of high-yielding varieties of wheat and rust resistant strains of wheat, while the high yielding varieties programme was constrained to only 5 crops wheat, rice, jowar, maize, and bajra. Several problems including frequent famines, lack of self-sufficiency and lack of finance was addressed through Green Revolution in India. Green Revolution within India commenced in the early 1960s that led to an increase in food grain production, especially in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. As the 10-day long festival of Ganesh Chaturthi comes to an end on Thursday, Mumbai Police has put in place heavy security arrangements and issued traffic advisory for the final Ganpati visarjan day. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department has issued a Yellow alert for Mumbai for Thursday. Mumbai Police has deployed 19,000 personnel, including officers to prevent any untoward incident from taking place. Police personnel include 16,250 constables, 2,866 officers, 45 Assistant Commissioners of Police, 25 Deputy Commissioners of Police, 8 Additional Commissioners of Police and other senior officials. Satyanarayan Chaudhary, Joint CP-Law and Order, Greater Mumbai said that proper arrangements have been made by the Mumbai Police for the last day of immersion. The Lalbaugcha Raja immersion will begin soon so we have made the arrangements, including deployment on the entire route with proper sanitization. At all the places where immersions are happening in Mumbai, the police have made the security arrangements and installed barricades, CCTVs, public address system etcOur entire force is on the road today in Mumbai, he added. Meanwhile, processions for Anant Chaturdashi have begun across the island city of Mumbai. Ganesh Visarjan on AnanthChaturdashi begins.Lalbaug Ganesh Gallis Mumbaicha Raja, moving out on its way towards Girgaum Chowpatti for immersion.#GanpatiBappaMorya#Visarjan2023 pic.twitter.com/39FKUzn2zO Matters (@mumbaimatterz) September 28, 2023 Similar arrangements have also been made for Eid-e-Milad, which will be celebrated with processions on Friday. Due to the appeal made by the police, various Muslim organisations and religious leaders decided to take out Eid processions on Friday instead of Thursday which is the day of Anant Chaturdashi. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) posted a video on X that showed the extensive arrangements it has made in view of Ganpati visarjan. In addition, an official said that 35 platoons of State Reserve Police Force (SRPF), a company of Rapid Action Force, Quick Response Teams (QRTs) and Home Guards will be on duty at important locations across the city. The official also added that except for those on medical leave, for all the other officers leaves have been cancelled. Considering that a large number of Mumbaikars throng streets to bid adieu to Ganpati bappa on Anant Chaturdashi, Mumbai Police is ready with the deployment of personnel to avoid any kind of untoward incidents, the official added. The IMD has also issued weather advisory for several parts of Maharashtra. An orange alert has been issued for Ratnagiri, while a Yellow alert has been issued for Mumbai, Thane, Raigad and Palghar for Thursday. Maharashtra | IMD issued an Orange alert for Ratnagiri and a Yellow alert for Mumbai, Thane, Raigad and Palghar for September 28. pic.twitter.com/pd3f915MN8 ANI (@ANI) September 27, 2023 In view of the final day of Ganesh visarjan, Mumbai Traffic Police has also issued a traffic advisory banning the entry of all heavy vehicles on the Greater Mumbai roads. The advisory released by the traffic police said that these measures will ensure that the public doesnt face any inconvenience. However, the order exempted vehicles carrying essential goods from the rules. Due to visarjan procession of various Ganesh idol of prominent pandals in Lalbaugh and Kalachowki area & rush of devotees visiting them.Following traffic arrangements are done to avoid traffic congestion in the aforesaid area and the route leading there.#MTPTrafficUpdates pic.twitter.com/Ral0NSAscY Mumbai Traffic Police (@MTPHereToHelp) September 28, 2023 In view of Ganpati Visarjan on September 23rd, 25th, and 28th, the movement of heavy vehicles excluding essential services, in Mumbai city from 11 am to 1 am. pic.twitter.com/W1zvQWn5fx Mumbai Traffic Police (@MTPHereToHelp) September 23, 2023 Thousands of household and public Ganesh idols will be immersed at 73 places, including at Girgaon Dadar, Juhu, Marve and Aksa beaches, on Anant Chaturdashi. All the processions in the city will be closely monitored by CCTV cameras, an official said, adding that policemen in plain clothes will mingle in the crowd to ensure that law and order is maintained. Separate control rooms will be set up to monitor the immersion processions, the official added. Ganpati Visarjan Arrangements At A Glance Mumbai Police has deployed 19,000 personnel in view of the final day of the immersion of Lord Ganesh. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has posted 1,337 lifeguards, including 1,035 at 69 natural water bodies and 302 at around 200 artificial ponds and arranged 53 motorboats at natural water bodies. Additionally, 35 platoons of SRPF, a company of RAF, QRTs and Home Guards will also be on duty. All the processions will be monitored via CCTVs, where the police has also arranged separate control rooms for the same. A total of 10,000 civic employees will be on duty and 250 control rooms have been set up, of which 72 will be at natural water bodies and 178 at artificial ponds. BMC has installed 468 steel plates at various sea-fronts so that vehicles carrying the idols dont get stuck in sand. BMC has also arranged for 46 German rafts for the immersion of huge Ganpati idols in the sea. Apart from deploying fire-fighting vehicles and trained manpower at the immersion spots, a total of 242 inspection towers have also been set up at the water bodies. An official said that 96 ambulances will remain parked at the immersion points. Other than this, 75 first-aid centres and 61 mobile clinics will also be operational. Earlier, BMC said that 68 welcome posts have been established at various immersion points. Around 1,083 flood lights and 27 searchlights have been installed for effective illumination at the immersion points in collaboration with the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport Undertaking (BEST). Changing rooms and 150 Nirmalya Kalash have also been set up at various sites. BMC asked citizens to register the immersion time for their idols on its website in order to prevent overcrowding. The civic body also asked people to reach BMC via MyBMC WhatsApp Chatbot at 8999-22-8999 to find nearby Ganesh immersion sites. Around 18 special train services will be operated on Mumbais suburban railway network on the night of Anant Chaturdashi (September 28), which is the last day of the Ganapati festival. The trains will run for passengers returning after immersion of Ganesha idols. A Central Railways release said that about 10 suburban special trains will be run between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Kalyan, Thane, and Belapur stations on the intervening night of September 28 and September 29. The festival of Ganesh Chaturthi or Ganeshotsav began on September 19 and will conclude on September 28. The festival is celebrated with great deal across the country, but holds a special importance in Mumbai, where huge pandals with gigantic Ganesha statues are set up in multiple parts of the city. (with inputs from PTI) One person was killed, while another sustained injuries after a 17-year-old boy allegedly rammed a car into the footpath in Mumbais Malad West area. The incident took place on Tuesday and the police booked the accused and his friend who allegedly lent him the vehicle despite knowing that he did not possess a drivers licence. The minor was identified as Mohammed Hamid Banikar and his friend Sameer Shaikh. Hindustan Times reported that a constable, who was present near the scene, informed the police station about the accident at 8:30 am that a four-wheeler had hit two men and later smashed into a tree near Interface Building number 7 at Mindspace at New Link Road. The cop found that the front portion of the car was damaged and had some blood stains around it. Preliminary probe has found that both accused had borrowed the car from another friend Saad Faizal Solanki for a fun ride. It was later known to the police that the car was rented and was owned by a person named Asif Khan. Hindustan Times reported that an eyewitness informed the police that the car was allegedly moving in a zig-zag manner and was speeding towards footpath. The deceased has been identified as Shubham Rawat. While the other man, Dattaram Ayer was discharged after treatment. Both accused also suffered minor injuries and were taken to a local hospital. Police registered a case against them under section 304A, 338, and 427 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Slain mafia Khalid Azeem aka Ashraf Khans brother-in-law Saddam, who was an accused in the sensational killing of Umesh Pal in Prayagraj on February 24, was arrested by Uttar Pradeshs Special Task Force (STF) in Delhi on Thursday. Saddams arrest might give some lead about dreaded gangster Guddu Muslim, Sabir, Arman, Shaista Parveen, Ayesha Noori and other members of Atiq Ahmeds IS 227 gang who are on the run in Pals murder. Some of the senior police officers claim that Abdul Ahmed alias Saddam used to be one of the most active members of IS 227. In order to save himself from the arrest, Saddam was residing in Delhi, Karnataka and Mumbai and was changing his position regularly in order to dodge the police, a senior police officer said. The police said Saddam played a crucial role in planning Umesh Pals murder, and facilitated meetings with gang members at Bareilly Central Jail where Ashraf Ahmed was lodged. UP STF said Saddam left for Dubai after his name surfaced in Umesh Pals murder case. The Bareilly Police had announced Rs 1 lakh reward for his arrest. However, after the murder of mafia-turned-politician Atiq and Ashraf, Saddam returned to India to look after Ashrafs property. There are many unsolved mysteries related to the Umesh Pals murder case. And, the arrest of Saddam would be a major breakthrough as it may help the cops in finding answers to all unsolved mysteries, senior police officials said. Saddam may help in revealing the whereabouts of slain mafia Atiq Ahmeds wife Shaista Parveen, who carries a reward of Rs 50,000. Parveen is a prime accused in Pals murder case. She did not turn up when her third son Asad, who allegedly led the team of assailants in Umesh Pals murder, was gunned down in a police encounter on April 13 nor when her husband Atiq and his brother Ashraf were murdered by three assailants in police custody in the presence of media outside a hospital in Prayagraj on April 15, a senior police officer said. Police said Saddams arrest can also give some lead about Zainab Fatima, wife of Atiq Ahmeds younger brother Ashraf, and their sister Ayesha Noori and her two daughters Unzela and Mantasha in connection with the murder. UP STF recovered a mobile phone and a car from Saddam. Police said Saddam was accused in six criminal cases, of which four cases were registered in Dhoomanganj Police Station and two in Bareillys Bithri Chainpur Police Station. Umesh Pal, a prime witness in Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) MLA Raju Pal murder (in 2005), was shot dead by the members of Atiq Ahmeds gang in broad daylight on February 24 when he was on his way to attend a court hearing in the case in Prayagrajs Dhoomanganj area. At this stage, NATO does not consider the falling of Russian Shahed drones in Romania a deliberate attack. This is the reason for the North Atlantic Alliance's reaction to the incident. ADVERTISIMENT This was said by NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, who is visiting Ukraine on September 28. He said, "We have no information that it (drone attacks on the territory of Romania - Ed.) was a deliberate attack on a NATO ally" at the press conference in Kyiv. At the same time, the Secretary-General noted that the Alliance is strengthening its presence on the eastern flank. In particular, several fighter jets were deployed to Romania to patrol the airspace. The news is being updated... SURGICAL STRIKE DAY 2023: Today, September 28 marks the seventh anniversary of Surgical Strike Day. It was on this day in 2016, the Indian Army conducted surgical strikes on terrorist camps across the Line of Control (LoC) in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The strikes were a response to the Uri attack, in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed by Pakistan-backed terrorists on September 18. The Indian government decided to celebrate September 28 as Surgical Strike Day, commemorating Indias befitting reply to Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. The strikes were a bold and decisive move by India, and they sent a strong message to Pakistan that India would not tolerate cross-border terrorism. The strikes also boosted the morale of the Indian security forces and the Indian people. The surgical strikes were a watershed moment in India-Pakistan relations. They marked a significant escalation in the conflict between the two countries, and they have had a lasting impact on the region. Heres a closer look at the surgical strikes, including the events leading up to them, how they were carried out, and their impact. THE URI ATTACK On September 18, 2016, heavily armed terrorists of the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) attacked an army base in Uri, Kashmir. The terrorists entered the base at around 5:30 am and opened fire on the soldiers. The attack lasted for several hours, and it left 20 Indian soldiers dead. The Uri attack was one of the deadliest attacks on the Indian Army in recent years. It was also a major setback for Indias efforts to improve relations with Pakistan. THE SURGICAL STRIKES In response to the Uri attack, the Indian government decided to conduct surgical strikes on terrorist camps in PoK. The strikes were carried out by special forces of the Indian Army on September 28, 2016. The Indian Army Special Forces platoons were dropped inside the LoC and crossed over by foot at midnight on September 28 into their targets. The targets included terrorist launchpads in the Neelam Valley, the Poonch sector, and the Uri sector. The Indian Army destroyed multiple terrorist launchpads in the strikes, and they also caused significant casualties among the terrorists, including senior commanders. The surgical strikes were a success, and they sent a strong message to Pakistan that India would not tolerate cross-border terrorism. The strikes also boosted the morale of the Indian security forces and the Indian people. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE SURGICAL STRIKES The surgical strikes were a watershed moment in India-Pakistan relations. They marked a significant escalation in the conflict between the two countries, and they have had a lasting impact on the region. The surgical strikes also showed that India was willing to take on Pakistan militarily, even if it meant risking a wider conflict. This was a major shift in Indias foreign policy, and it has had a profound impact on the region. IMPLICATIONS OF THE SURGICAL STRIKES The surgical strikes have had a significant impact on India-Pakistan relations and the region as a whole. They have led to an increase in tensions between the two countries, and they have made it more difficult to resume dialogue and peace talks. The surgical strikes have also had a negative impact on the security situation in the region. There has been an increase in cross-border firing and skirmishes between the two countries since the strikes. The surgical strikes were a bold and decisive move by India, but they have had a number of negative consequences. They have led to an increase in tensions between India and Pakistan, made it more difficult to resume dialogue and peace talks, and had a negative impact on the security situation in the region. QUOTES RELATED TO THE SURGICAL STRIKES A top official of Pakistans premier intelligence agency ISI has revealed on condition of anonymity to CNN-News18 that his country has drawn up a new strategy against India. It has been named Tease India Globally, he said. From Bleed India to Defame India is Pakistans new agenda and we will expose India on all international forums, the ISI official said. Responding to a question, he revealed that the Kartarpur corridor is rewarding Pakistan and the Khalistan movement is gaining momentum now. Pakistans plan is going successfully and ISI is regaining ground in India again with the help of Khalistani supporters, the official claimed. In return for some small amounts of money, Khalistani supporters are providing secret information and we are targeting accordingly, he said. Unfortunately, due to political uncertainty and financial crisis, our operations are limited, but ISI has alternative resources in West Asia, Turkey, Nepal, and Canada. ISI has syndicates with some rogue elements in the world they are supporting Pakistan and in return, ISI is facilitating them with fake IDs, fake passports, and terror financing in the world. According to another military source, Pakistan has focused on and boosted the Khalistan movement to fight and get revenge on India. The official said that after the establishment of the Kartarpur corridor and the new gurdwara in Kartarpur, Pakistan has won the hearts and support of Sikhs, especially Khalsa fighters. Pakistan is providing militant training to Khalistani fighters like they trained Kashmiri jihadis, claimed the Pakistan military source. In recent times, Pakistan has been involved in drug trafficking in India through drones. They are launched from Pakistans Punjab province and sent into Punjab in India. The dealers from India are members of the Khalistan movement, who have been connected through the Kartarpur corridor, said sources. Pakistan has offered visas on arrival to several countries and most entries are availed by members of the Sikh community from Canada, Thailand, the United Kingdom, Europe, and the United States, shows data from the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports of Pakistan. The priest of an Ashram in Madhya Pradeshs Ujjain, who rescued the wandering 12-year-old rape survivor, who was refused help by many, described the minors horrifying state when he found her. The priest, Rahul Sharma, is associated with an ashram at Badnagar Road in Ujjain. According to Sharma, he spotted the girl, who was semi-naked and visibly injured with blood dripping down both her legs near the gates of the ashram when he was leaving the premises at around 9:30 am on Monday. I gave her my clothes. She was bleeding. She could not speak. Her eyes were swollen. I called 100. When I could not reach the cops over the helpline, I contacted the Mahakal police station and informed them about the situation. Police reached the ashram in about 20 minutes, the priest was quoted by NDTV as saying. A CCTV footage of the 12-year-old girl, bleeding and in a semi-naked condition after allegedly being raped, showed her going from door to door asking for help but to no avail. She was even shooed away by a man standing outside his home when she approached him for help. Sharma further said the girl was afraid of everyone but was able to trust him a little. Whenever someone else approached her, she tried to hide behind me. Then police came and took her with them, he said. Cops Donate Blood Police arrived at the scene and took her to the district hospital where a medical examination confirmed rape. The girl was then referred to Indore as her injuries were serious. Police personnel also came forward to donate blood when she needed it during her treatment. Her condition is now learnt to be stable. One Suspect Arrested Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra said a special investigation team (SIT) has been formed to probe the matter and a suspect has been detained. A case of rape has been registered against the accused under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The girl was not able to tell us exactly where she is from. But her accent suggests she is from Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh, Ujjain police chief Sachin Sharma said. Uttar Pradesh police has also been contacted in the case. Auto-driver Among Arrested Accused, Police Say Girl Boarded his Vehicle According to an India Today report, an auto driver, among three others was arrested in the case. The auto-driver was identified as 38-year-old Rakesh. Police said that girl had boarded an auto at Jeevan Kheri, a CCTV video of which was also retrieved. Later, police said blood stains were found on the auto and a forensic examination was underway. One of the three others detained case was also an auto driver. Police said they have retrieved the CCTV footage of the 8 km stretch where the girl walked on foot while asking for help. MS Swaminathan, or Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan, the eminent agricultural scientist and humanitarian synonymous with Indias path-breaking Green Revolution, passed away at the age of 98 in Chennai. His contribution in achieving Indias self-sufficiency in food grains was so overarching that he was known as the Father of Indias Green Revolution. This achievement can never be underestimated, considering that in the 1960s, India depended on wheat imports from the US under the latters Public Law 480 or PL 480 to meet domestic demand. India had a ship-to mouth existence and was dependent on the charity of the US, vulnerable to the superpowers arm-twisting, particularly during the Bangladesh crisis when it suspended economic aid to India. In 1971, India snapped its PL480 deal with the US, determined to be self-dependent in food grain production. Dr MS Swaminathan played an instrumental role in developing high yielding wheat and paddy, and along with Nobel laureate Norman Borlaug, involved farmers in a mass movement to get better yields. Swaminathan and Borlaugh are credited with staving off famine-like situation in India. Swaminathan was born on August 7, 1925 in Tamil Nadus Kumbakonam. He did his BSc from the Madras University, MSc in Agricultural Sciences from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) and PhD from the University of Cambridge. He served in numerous capacities with the government Director General of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) between 1972 and 1979, principal secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation between 1979 and 1980. He also served as the director general of International Rice Research Institute between 1982 and 1988, and as President of the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources in 1984. Dr MS Swaminathan was also a member of the Sonia Gandhi-led National Advisory Council which drafted the Right to Food Act during the UPA years. In 2010, talking to this correspondent, Swaminathan was prescient about the importance of minor millets and its neglect by policy makers. Now it is a great opportunity for us to enlarge our food basket and look at grains which are nutritious. Unfortunately, the British called these coarse cereals and created a caste system. They are more nutritious than wheat and rice. Universal PDS can be done. Grains will not be a problem. The only problem is should we have the whole country at very highly subsidised food, Rs 3 a kilo for rice, Rs 2 a kilo for wheat, and Re 1 a kilo for millets, he had said. During the recently concluded G20 Summit, millets figured prominently on the menu for Indias distinguished guests, with the Narendra Modi government making a strong push to promote millets. Asked if the open-ended policy of food procurement of the government should stop, Dr Swaminathan had told this reporter: Handing over food security issues like purchase, storage to private sector, is a recipe for national disaster. It will lead to chaos, it will lead to food riots, it will be the greatest harm done to the people of the country. You cant abdicate the primary responsibility of feeding the people. The private sector has no obligation at all to feed anybody. I think their only interest will be making money. I think it is a wrong policy. I think it is a dangerous policy. It is a socially dangerous policy. Swaminathan was the chairperson of the National Commission on Farmers formed by the UPA government in 2004 to suggest ways to improve farmers lives. In fact, implementing the recommendations of the Swaminathan Committee, as it came to be commonly known, have become a key demand among various farmers unions across the country as well as a key election promise of political parties. The Swaminathan Committee had recommended a minimum suitable price for farmers produce that is 50% above the comprehensive cost of production, which resonated during the year-long farmers agitation on the borders of the national capital in 2020-21. Dr MS Swaminathan had also served as a nominated member of Parliament from 2007 to 2013. In his illustrious career, Dr Swaminthan won the Padma Shri in 1967. He was the first recipient of the World Food Prize instituted in 1987. The following year, he founded the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation with the prize money in Chennai. He had also won the Ramon Magasaysay Award for Community leadership way back in 1971, the Indira Peace Prize, Padma Bhushan in 1972 and Padma Vibhushan in 1989. Dr Swaminathan is survived by his three children. His passing away creates a deep void in the agriculture and science sector across the world. Amidst soaring cases in the state, experts have called the Dengue situation in West Bengal quite alarming but critical. Experts hoped the situation would improve soon as the disease had already peaked. The situation is definitely alarming. But its severity is not like in previous years. Cases are high because people are testing. Most of the cases are getting cured at home, child specialist Dr Apurba Ghosh was quoted by PTI as saying. The West Bengal government has also asserted confidence that dengue cases will be minimised in two weeks. Latest Updates on Dengue Situation in West Bengal Addressing a press conference at Nabanna on Tuesday, West Bengal Chief Secretary Harikrishna Dwivedi said, Dengue infection will be minimised within two weeks. So, do not panic but stay alert. We will distribute 5 lakh mosquito nets, especially in slum areas. We have also increased testing in vulnerable areas to curb the spread of the disease. Dwivedi said the outbreak has mostly affected urban areas in the state and 130 such cases have been identified so far. According to a PTI report, districts like North 24 Parganas, Howrah, Kolkata, Nadia and Murshidabad have recorded a higher number of cases. Around 38000 dengue cases have been reported in West Bengal until September 20. According to a Hindustan Times report, an official said North 24 Parganas was the worst affected district with 8,535 cases followed by Kolkata (4427), Murshidabad (4266), Nadia (4233), and Hooghly (3083). BJP and Congress slammed the Mamata Banerjee-led government for failing to curb the disease. Leader of Opposition (LoP) in West Bengal Assembly Suvendu Adhikari along with 22 BJP MLAs staged a protest outside the health department office on Tuesday afternoon over the rise in dengue cases in the state. West Bengal Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Wednesday also hit out at CM Mamata Banerjee over her recent business trip to Spain at a time when the Dengue situation is severe in the state. #WATCH | Congress MP from Murshidabad, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury yesterday said, One district after the other in the state (West Bengal) is getting affected by DengueThe CM (Mamata Banerjee) goes abroad for a change of environment. We saw she stayed in a hotel charging a tariff pic.twitter.com/QBUB6OZ0ww ANI (@ANI) September 27, 2023 Eid Milad-Un-Nabi, a joyous celebration observed by Muslims worldwide, commemorates the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad, the revered founder of Islam. Also known as Mawlid or Eid-e-Milad, this significant festival falls on different dates depending on Islamic sects. Sunni Muslims celebrate it on the 12th of Rabi al-Awwal, while Shia Muslims mark it on the 17th of Rabi al-Awwal. ALSO READ: Eid Milad-Un-Nabi 2023 Mubarak: Happy Milad Un Nabi Wishes, Images, Quotes, Status, Messages, Wallpapers, Photos and Greetings For a Special Mawlid For this year, Eid Milad-Un-Nabi is from the evening of September 27 to the evening of September 28. On the auspicious day, certain traditional dishes are prepared and consumed to mark and celebrate the auspicious occasion. Eid Milad-Un-Nabi 2023: 6 Traditional Recipes Sheer Khurma Sheer Khurma is a rich and creamy dessert made with vermicelli, milk, sugar, and an assortment of dry fruits and nuts. It is often served warm and garnished with toasted nuts, making it a beloved Eid dessert. Recipe Step 1: Heat ghee in a pan and roast vermicelli until it turns golden brown. Step 2: Add milk, sugar, and cardamom to the pan. Simmer until the vermicelli is cooked and the mixture thickens. Step 3: Add chopped dry fruits and saffron for flavour and garnish. Step 4: Serve warm, garnished with more dry fruits. Baklava Baklava is a delightful pastry made of layers of thin, flaky dough filled with a mixture of crushed nuts (typically pistachios or walnuts) and sweetened with honey or sugar syrup. Recipe: Step 1: Layer sheets of dough, brushing each layer with melted butter. Step 2: Add a mixture of crushed nuts (usually pistachios or walnuts) and spices between layers. Step 3: Cut the layered pastry into diamond or square shapes. Step 4: Bake until golden brown. Step 5: Pour honey or sugar syrup over the hot baklava. Step 6: Allow it to cool and absorb the syrup before serving. Mutton Rogan Josh Rogan Josh is a flavorful and aromatic mutton curry with roots in Kashmiri cuisine. Its known for its deep red color and rich, spicy flavorIts traditionally served with steamed rice or naan. Recipe Step 1: Marinate mutton pieces with yoghurt, ginger-garlic paste, and a mix of spices. Step 2: Saute onions in oil until golden brown. Step 3: Add the marinated mutton and cook until it changes colour. Step 4: Simmer with water until the mutton is tender and the gravy thickens. Peshawari Naan Peshawari Naan is a type of flatbread known for its indulgent and nutty filling. It is typically stuffed with a mixture of crushed nuts, coconut, sugar, and sometimes raisins. Recipe Step 1: Prepare a dough with flour, water, salt, and a touch of oil. Step 2: Roll out small portions of dough into circles. Step 3: Fill with a mixture of crushed nuts, coconut, sugar, and optional raisins. Step 4: Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges. Step 5: Cook on a griddle until golden and slightly crispy. Mutton Biryani Mutton Biryani is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish made with marinated mutton pieces and aromatic spices. Recipe Step 1: Marinate mutton with yoghurt, spices, and herbs. Step 2: Parboil rice with spices. Step 3: Layer the marinated mutton and partially cooked rice in a large pot. Step 4: Add fried onions, mint leaves, and saffron-infused milk as layers. Step 5: Cover and cook on low heat until the flavours meld and the rice is fully cooked. Aseeda Aseeda is a traditional Libyan dish made from simple ingredients like wheat flour, water and salt. It is often served with honey, butter, or date syrup, offering a unique and rustic sweetness. Recipe Step 1: Combine wheat flour, water, and a pinch of salt to form a dense dough. Step 2: Shape the dough into small rounds or patties. Step 3: Cook in a pan until they are firm and slightly browned. Step 4: Serve with honey, butter, or date syrup for sweetness. These recipes not only satisfy the palate but also reflect the rich culinary diversity of Eid Milad-Un-Nabi celebrations. Enjoy these delectable dishes with your loved ones to make the occasion even more special. Pitru Paksha, also known as Shraddha Paksha, is a sacred 16-day period observed by Hindus to honour their ancestors. It commences on Bhadrapada Purnima (September 29) and concludes on Ashwin Amavasya (October 14). Bhadrapada Purnima is also referred to as Purnima Shraddha and Pratipada Shraddha. Shradh Paksha 2023 Start Date and Time Purnima Tithi Begins: 28 September; 6:49 PM Purnima Tithi Ends: 29 September; 3:26 PM Shradh Paksha End Date and Time Amavasya Tithi Begins: 14 October; 4:48 AM Amavasya Tithi Ends: 15 October; 7:09 AM PITRU PAKSHA 2023 DATES First day of Pitru Paksha: September 29 (Purnima Shraddha and Pratipada Shraddha) Second day: September 30 (Second Shraddha) Third day: October 1 (Tritiya Shraddha) Fourth day: October 2 (Chaturthi Shraddha, Maha Bharani) Fifth day: October 3 (Panchami Shraddha) Sixth day: October 4 (Shashthi Shraddha) Seventh day: October 5 (Saptami Shraddha) Eighth day: October 6 (Ashtami Shraddha) Ninth day: October 7 (Navami Shraddha) Tenth day: October 8 (Dashami Shraddha) Eleventh day: October 9 (Ekadashi Shraddha) Twelfth day: October 10 (Magha Shraddha) Thirteenth day: October 11 (Dwadashi Shraddha) Fourteenth day: October 12 (Trayodashi Shraddha) Fifteenth day: October 13 (Chaturdashi Shraddha) Sarva Pitru Amavasya: October 14 (Saturday) WHY TO FEED BIRDS AND ANIMALS DURING PITRU PAKSHA? During Pitru Paksha, various rituals are performed to show reverence to ancestors, including Tarpan, Pind Daan, Shradh, Panchbali Bhog, and others. Tarpan involves offering water mixed with black sesame, barley, kusha grass, and white flour to appease the ancestors. Feeding Brahmins is an essential part of the Shraddha ritual, as it is believed to remove Pitra Dosh from ones horoscope. Here are the significance and offerings for specific animals and divine entities during this period: CrowOffering food to crows symbolizes the air element and is believed to please ancestors. CowCows represent the earth element and are highly revered. A portion of food is set aside for them. DogDogs, symbolizing the water element, are also fed a portion of the food, bringing blessings for a happy life. Divine PowersFood is offered to deities, symbolizing the sky element. AntsThe fifth bhog is dedicated to ants, symbolizing hard work and collectivism. SHRADH RITUALS DURING PITRU PAKSHA Rituals Preparation The Shradh period culminates on Mahalaya day, which falls on September 25. The eldest family member takes a bath and wears new clothes, including a ring made of Kush grass. Kush Grass symbolizes kindness and is used to invoke the ancestors. Setting Up the Altar A wooden table is prepared and placed facing south. The table is covered with a white cloth. Black sesame seeds and barley seeds are spread over the table. An ancestors portrait is placed on the table. Offering Pind Ancestors are invoked and offered pind, which are rice or wheat balls. Pind is made using honey, rice or wheat, goats milk, sugar, and ghee. Tarpan Offering Tarpan is made by mixing water, flour, barley, kush, and black sesame seeds. This mixture is offered as Tarpan to the ancestors. Feeding The Needy After the Shradh and Tarpan rituals, food is offered to the poor and needy. These rituals can be performed on any day during the 15-day Pitru Paksha period, with the culmination on Mahalaya day. The specific rituals and offerings are meant to show reverence and seek blessings for the departed ancestors. Dos and Donts to follow during 15 days of Shradh Dos of Pitru Paksha Offer food, water, and other items to your ancestors. Perform tarpan and shraddha rituals. Chant the Pitru Gayatri Mantra or other mantras dedicated to your ancestors. Read the Garuda Purana or other scriptures that discuss the importance of honouring ones ancestors. Take a dip in the Ganges or other holy rivers. Donate to charity and help the needy. Donts of Pitru Paksha Do not consume non-vegetarian food or alcohol. Do not eat certain foods such as chana (gram), masoor dal (lentils), mustard greens, and radish. Do not harm animals. Do not insult anyone. Do not perform any auspicious ceremonies such as weddings or engagements. Avoid anger and hatred. Things To Remember Avoid any obscene or disrespectful behaviour. Always wear clean and tidy clothes. Always speak the truth. Always donate to charity. By following these dos and donts during Pitru Paksha, you can please your ancestors and bring peace to their souls. When we think about the challenges working women face, the women we imagine are usually office going, educated, and well-heeled. While that is one end of the privilege spectrum, and they have their specific challenges in balancing work and family life, on the opposite end of that spectrum lie the uneducated, unskilled, poor working women who make up nearly 50% of our workforce in sanitation work. Like all women, these women too, work double shifts: a whole day at work, and then all the responsibilities of home, childcare and elder care. What sharpens their challenges is the lack of support. These women have a near zero safety net they work in the unorganised sector where they have zero job security, no insurance, and their wages can change without notice. They face the same challenges to independence and mobility that patriarchy places on all women, but in their case, these are doubled up with societal disdain for the work they do. Like all women, they find themselves at the end of gender discrimination, but that too, is compounded by caste based discrimination, since many of them belong to marginalised communities. Moreover, sanitation jobs are physically demanding, and often involve very hazardous conditions, where these women work without basic protections like gloves and masks. Their pay is dismally low, and as this is considered unskilled, dirty work, there are no prospects for growth or improvement. In the face of all this, how do these women manage their roles as wife, mother and caregiver at home? The Dual Role: Workers and Caregivers In several parts and pockets of India, a womans first responsibility is still considered her home. Domestic work, childcare, and taking care of her elders are considered her primary duties by their families and communities. If she wants to work, she has to find ways of fulfilling her primary duties, before any that her work entails. To this end, most women sanitation workers are up before the sun to wrap up all their household chores before setting out to a full day of physically exhausting work. They then return home late in the evening to take care of their children and elderly relatives. If this wasnt enough, they also face harassment or violence from their husbands, who may not approve of their work or demand a share of their income. Some women sanitation workers also face social ostracism and isolation from their neighbours and relatives, who consider them impure and untouchable because of their work. The work itself takes its toll. There are many risks to sanitation work, particularly when done without protective gear. There are a number of diseases and health hazards these women are exposed to, and are fearful of bringing home to their families. However, as our sanitation consciousness grows, so does our awareness of the challenges these women face. While there are several stories of women who are toiling this way, there are also stories of women who have found a way to lift themselves and their sisters out of these situations, and create lasting change in their communities. Inspiring Examples of Change Rani Devi Rani Devi, a sanitation worker in Patna, Bihar, faced the daunting challenge of supporting her family after her husband left her. She connected with UNFPA, received training in machine-based sewer and drainage cleaning, and formed a cooperative team. Today, she manages her familys needs while leading a team that provides essential sanitation services to Patna. Sadhna Sadhna was only 26 when she lost her husband to alcoholism, and had to take up cleaning community toilets to make ends meet, earning a meagre income of 4,500 per month. Determined to create a better life for herself and her children, she took up training at Harpic World Toilet College (HWTC), following which, she secured a position as a housekeeper at United CIIGMA Hospital in Aurangabad. With a stable income and improved salary, she transferred her children to a better school, opened a savings account for their future, and improved her health through safety gear and regular medical check-ups. Varsha Varsha too, found herself the familys sole breadwinner upon her husbands tragic death. She sought training at HWTC, which led to a stable job at Hegdewar Hospital, Aurangabad. With a permanent job, Varsha was able to fulfill her daughters dream of becoming an engineer. Education provided her family with financial security and her daughter with a promising future. Education as a lever for growth Whats common in Rani Devi, Sadhna and Varshas stories is their commitment to their families futures, and the fact that they sought training. Education lifts everyone. At the very least, education helps us see possibilities, and equips us to find ways out of situations that otherwise trap us. As Indias leading brand in the lavatory care space, Harpic has a keen understanding of the problems that sanitation workers face. Harpic World Toilet College (HWTC) was established with the stated objective of improving the quality of life of sanitation workers through their rehabilitation by linking them with dignified livelihood options. Workers trained by the college are provided placement with various organisations. Following the successful proof of concept in Rishikesh, HWTCs have opened in Maharashtra, Aurangabad, in partnership with Harpic, Jagran Pehel and Maharashtra Government. When these women graduate from HWTC, they emerge as certified sanitation professionals. They understand the risks their work poses to their health and that of their families, and have the soft skills needed to articulate why they need protective gear and tools. As the HWTC also undertakes placements, most graduates emerge with jobs in the organised sector with better pay, a provident fund, and insurance. They now have job security, and that security gives them a firmer footing in the world. Between better pay and insurance, they have the confidence to both save for a rainy day, and spend on the things they need to improve their circumstances. To say it is a life changing experience is an understatement. Harpic isnt stopping there. Joining hands with News18 to create Mission Swachhta aur Paani, a movement that champions the cause of inclusive sanitation, equality for all genders, abilities, castes and classes and the strong belief that clean toilets are a shared responsibility, Harpic is also creating platforms where the right conversations can happen. What we talk about matters. As awareness and understanding grows, so do solutions. Join us here to learn how you can be a part of the movement towards a more equitable, Swachh and Swasth Bharat. Mahatma Gandhi, the beloved father of our nation and a tireless advocate for cleanliness, once shared a profound insight: Sanitation is more vital than political independence. Indias remarkable journey towards sanitation, guided by the Swachh Bharat Mission, has been nothing short of inspiring, drawing us closer to the realisation of several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Yet, amidst this awe-inspiring transformation, there is one community of heroes that remains unsung: the dedicated community of sanitation workers. It is thanks to the tireless labour of these individuals that our waste is managed safely, and our cities remain clean and hygienic. Every single day, more than 5 million sanitation workers from all corners of the country put their lives on the line, ensuring that we have uninterrupted access to fully functional sanitation services, and this remained true even in the face of a global pandemic. Harpic, as Indias leading brand in the lavatory care segment has a deep and nuanced understanding of the challenges sanitation workers face, particularly women sanitation workers. These women often are at the receiving end of a triple prejudice one for being a sanitation worker, one for hailing from a backward class or caste, and one for being women. Harpic leveraged their understanding of these challenges into a real world solution in the form of the Harpic World Toilet College (HWTC) in 2016. HWTC was established with the stated objective of improving the quality of life of sanitation workers through their rehabilitation by linking them with dignified livelihood options. Workers trained by the college are provided placement with various organisations. Following the successful proof of concept in Rishikesh, HWTCs have opened in Maharashtra, Aurangabad, in partnership with Harpic, Jagran Pehel and Maharashtra Government. Thankfully, the HWTC isnt simply performing lip service here. There is an enormous amount of thought, and understanding that has gone into creating the curriculum, the training pedagogy and the placements. When the aim is to change lives, details matter. Creating a Strong Foundation Through Effective Training HWTC recognizes that these women often come from marginalised communities and face numerous challenges in their profession. Many of these women are illiterate, and therefore, the training pedagogy needs to take into account their needs. Practical Skills for Safe Sanitation One of the key elements of HWTCs training approach is the focus on practical skills. Sanitation workers need to understand the intricacies of their work, from handling waste to cleaning and maintaining public facilities. The training programs at HWTC include hands-on experiences, ensuring that these women are well-prepared for the realities of their jobs. This includes training on the proper use of cleaning tools, protective gear, and waste management techniques. Health and Safety First HWTC incorporates rigorous health and safety modules into its training programs as the work that sanitation workers do is intrinsically hazardous. These modules cover topics such as the prevention of infections, the proper handling of waste, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). This emphasis on health and safety not only protects the well-being of these workers and their families, but also contributes to the overall hygiene and sanitation of the communities they serve. When sanitation workers are well-informed about health risks and safety measures, they are less likely to suffer the hazards of infections themselves, and far less likely to take these infections home to their families. Confidence Building and Personal Growth Beyond technical skills, HWTCs training approach focuses on personal growth and confidence building. Many women sanitation workers face societal stereotypes and biases. Through education and skill-building, they gain the confidence to challenge these norms and excel in their roles. Self-Esteem and Dignity Sanitation work is often stigmatised, and sanitation workers often face discrimination. These societal messages combined with their often dire socio-economic situations can be fatal blows to ones self esteem. HWTC reframes the work of sanitation from unskilled dirty work, to a skilled profession that requires a specific set of skills and training to perform. Sanitation workers are also taught about the important role their work plays in keeping the larger community healthy and functioning. Once they recognise these facts, the shift in perspective is a natural outcome. HWTCs graduates see themselves as essential workers who play a key role in maintaining our society. Leadership and Empowerment HWTC goes a step further by fostering leadership skills among women sanitation workers. They are encouraged to take on leadership roles within their communities and advocate for sanitation improvements. This empowerment extends beyond their professional lives and influences their interactions within their families and communities. Many women who have undergone HWTCs training have gone on to become leaders in their neighbourhoods. They have successfully advocated for better sanitation facilities, educated their communities about hygiene practices, and challenged the stereotypes associated with their profession. Walking the Path of Financial Security As the HWTC also undertakes placements, most graduates emerge with jobs in the organised sector with better pay, a provident fund, and insurance. They now have job security, and that security gives them a firmer footing in the world. Between better pay and insurance, they have the confidence to both save for a rainy day, and spend on the things they need to improve their circumstances. For Harpic and HWTC, these stories are validation that what they are doing is making a real difference. Of course, thats not all Harpic is doing. For 3 years now, Harpic has partnered with News18 to create Mission Swachhta aur Paani, a movement that champions the cause of inclusive sanitation, equality for all genders, abilities, castes and classes and the strong belief that clean toilets are a shared responsibility. Mission Swachhta aur Paani brings together the right stakeholders on a common platform, so that issues of importance can be discussed, and solutions found. Mission Swachhta aur Paani also leverages News18s enormous reach to get these stories out to a larger audience, creating recognition and awareness of the part we play in creating and supporting unfair working conditions for women sanitation workers. The beauty of awareness is that it spells action. When we realise the cost of our action (or inaction), we remedy it. We talk about it to our friends and families, and we spark movements some big, and some small, that help move the needle towards a more fair, equitable and compassionate future. We can be the change we want to see. Join us here, to learn how you can do your bit to help us transform into a Swachh and Swasth Bharat for all. As Indians who reside in India, we know that our country is a kaleidoscope of many peoples, cultures, mindsets, and identities. We occupy the same cities, but come from different worlds. Some of us are highly educated, some arent. Some of us come from generational wealth, many of us have had to bootstrap our legacies. We work for others, we run our own businesses, we stay at home and care for the young and old, we invent technologies, we make business decisions that affect our employees, we work for good bosses and bad ones, we run for local office, we drive taxis, we clean toilets. We are a melting pot. So it is easy for us to sometimes overlook the challenges that people around us face. Lets take sanitation as an example: many of us grew up in apartments with personal toilets, while for many of us, a communal toilet was all that was available. Many of us grew up knowing the importance of handwashing, while many of us lost loved ones to preventable diarrhoeal diseases that came from unwashed hands. The gap is a large one. Fortunately, the Swachh Bharat Mission did much to remedy that. Today, every Indian has access to a toilet, but not every Indian knows how to use one properly. As the Sub-Group of Chief Ministers on Swachh Bharat Mission found, building toilets is just half the battle; behavioural change is the rest. Behavioural change isnt easy, especially when it involves communication around a subject as sensitive as toilet hygiene. While the Swachh Bharat Mission made great strides in communicating the need to use toilets and their impact on the health of the population, pockets remain. This is the unsung work that falls to our sanitation workers, particularly, to women sanitation workers. The Right Message, At The Right Time Sanitation workers are the frontline in this fight. These are the people who clean our toilets, and therefore, are the first to know when one of the users doesnt understand the basics. Even in our communal toilets in the city, weve all come across toilets that have become unusable because someone didnt flush, or flushed something that wasnt meant to be, or otherwise made a mess. When toilet attendants are present, they are able to handle the situation as it happens. Toilet attendants often undergo soft skills training and are able to communicate the tenets of good toilet hygiene with respect and empathy, turning a potentially embarrassing episode into a learning opportunity. Cultural Sensitivity and Gender India doesnt just live in the cities. In our rural areas, many families are new to toilet usage. These are new habits, and mistakes happen. When they do, corrections need to be made with respect and empathy. Here too, trained sanitation workers make a monumental difference to toilet adoption. A person who is embarrassed because of what happened, or otherwise daunted by an unfamiliar toilet, might want to go back to their old ways, endangering the health and safety of an entire community. Trained sanitation workers are able to close these gaps by doing remedial communication, helping users adopt new habits. Women sanitation workers play a crucial role here, as in many of our villages, women are hesitant to speak to men about toilet and menstrual hygiene. These topics are still considered too taboo for polite conversation amongst women themselves, let alone a male social worker or sanitation worker. They are, however, much more receptive when its a woman sanitation worker. Moreover, as these sanitation workers often hail from the same communities they serve, they have an intrinsic understanding of the taboos and hesitations and knowledge gaps these women have to overcome. They are able to communicate in ways that get the message across, while keeping the communication well within the bounds of propriety. It may seem like a small thing, but by communicating in this manner, these sanitation workers are able to talk to children and grandmothers alike opening up space for questions that they otherwise wouldnt be able to ask anyone else. In this way, we can draw a direct line between the improved health of these communities, and the work these sanitation workers do. Empowering the Messenger If youre wondering where these trained and empathetic toilet attendants and sanitation workers come from, we have many social organisations to thank, as well as Harpic. As Indias leading brand in the lavatory care segment, Harpic has a very nuanced understanding of the needs and challenges of sanitation workers, particularly women. It also understands the sanitation landscape very well, and the challenges that lie in the path of India becoming a Swachh Bharat. Harpic leveraged this understanding into the creation of the Harpic World Toilet College (HWTC) in 2016. HWTC was established with the stated objective of improving the quality of life of sanitation workers through their rehabilitation by linking them with dignified livelihood options. Workers trained by the college are provided placement with various organisations. Following the successful proof of concept in Rishikesh, HWTCs have opened in Maharashtra, Aurangabad, in partnership with Harpic, Jagran Pehel and Maharashtra Government. Beyond a strong focus on the technical aspects of sanitation, HWTC lays strong emphasis on soft skills, and personal development. By the time women sanitation workers graduate from HWTC, they understand the important role they play in keeping their communities healthy. They learn to see their work as essential work, and have the confidence to ask for fair compensation and protective gear for themselves, and to advocate for the needs of the community. Their deep sense of responsibility towards the health of their communities makes communicating toilet hygiene a point of pride amongst them. They know that they are doing the work towards moving India towards a Swachh Bharat, one difficult conversation at a time. Of course, thats not all Harpic is doing. For 3 years now, Harpic has partnered with News18 to create Mission Swachhta aur Paani, a movement that champions the cause of inclusive sanitation, equality for all genders, abilities, castes and classes and the strong belief that clean toilets are a shared responsibility. Mission Swachhta aur Paani brings together the right stakeholders on a common platform, so that issues of importance can be discussed, and solutions found. If we want to live in a Swasth Bharat, we all need to do our part. Join us here, to be the change you want to see. On September 27, the Ukrainian defense forces made little progress in their offensives near Bakhmut and in the western part of Zaporizhzhia region. At the same time, the situation in the village of Verbove remains unclear, as propagandists have become noticeably less inclined to cover Russia's actions on this front line in detail or to report news of the occupiers' failures. ADVERTISIMENT This is stated in a report by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW). They say that a discussion on the periphery of the Russian information space has arisen about problems in this area. Advancement of the Armed Forces of Ukraine The analysts refer to geolocation footage published on September 26, which shows that Ukrainian forces have advanced near Orikhovo-Vasylivka (10 km northwest of Bakhmut). Additional footage suggests that the occupiers are likely no longer in control of a trench line approximately one kilometer west of Verbove in the Zaporizhzhia sector. "The absence of Russian troops in this trench may facilitate further Ukrainian advance in the area, as it is no longer a significant obstacle for them," ISW believes. The day before, Brigadier General Oleksandr Tarnavsky, commander of the Tauride group of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, said that Ukrainian troops were confidently advancing in the Zaporizhzhia sector and that "there will be good news" but did not provide any additional information. ADVERTISIMENT The situation near Verbove According to analysts, Russian propagandists, who a few days ago panicked about the Ukrainian army's breakthrough in the village of Verbove, Pohlohiv district, have become less vocal about the situation on this section of the front. On September 26, the occupation "official" of Zaporizhzhia region, Volodymyr Rogov, said that at least four Ukrainian companies with a significant number of armored vehicles had broken into Russian positions on the Robotyne - Verbove line after a massive artillery attack. The blogger, who strongly supports the commander of the Russian airborne troops, Colonel General Mikhail Teplinsky, criticizing the Russian Defense Ministry, rudely responded to the gauleiter. According to him, in fact, the Ukrainian Armed Forces had already passed minefields and anti-tank fortifications in the form of "dragon's teeth" on the Robotyno - Verbove line, and it was obvious that sooner or later Ukrainian forces would launch such attacks. ADVERTISIMENT On September 26, another Russian pro-war blogger claimed that intense mutual exchanges of fire made ground operations near Verbove and Robotyne dangerous. And another, allegedly affiliated with the Russian VDP forces, responded to this claim by pointing out that a personal source from the Russian 108th Regiment (7th VDP Division) reported intense Ukrainian shelling in the area. He added that the informant provided unclear information about whether the 108th Regiment was moving toward Verbove or withdrawing from the village. The propagandist also claimed that the Russian military command in Moscow had canceled plans to redeploy the Russian 106th Airborne Division to Robotyn to assist the 7th and 76th Divisions currently operating there, and complained that the motivation for this decision was not explained. ADVERTISIMENT The ISW noted that this Russian channel demonstrates a tendency to make exaggerated statements and implausible claims that favor Teplinsky and are directed against Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of the General Staff Army General Valery Gerasimov. Elements of the 106th Division mentioned there have been previously observed in the Bakhmut area. "Recently, the Russian information space has been mostly hesitant to discuss the operations of the Russian Armed Forces in the western part of Zaporizhzhia region, as the blogging community has reduced its criticism of Russia's warfare in this area of the front after the uprising of Wagner Group financier Yevgeny Prigozhin on June 24. ISW will continue to adapt to this new information space," the analysts explained the reasons for the unclear situation in Verbove. ADVERTISIMENT As OBOZREVATEL previously reported, back in August, ATES guerrillas told how the 177th Regiment of the Russian Marines fled from Verbove after several small attacks by the Ukrainian Defense Forces. At the time, the aggressor country even opened a criminal case over the occupiers' desertion. According to military experts, the breakthrough in Verbove is tactical for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. This way, Ukrainian soldiers can destroy the resources of the Russian Armed Forces, as well as prevent the supply of reinforcements for the occupiers. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! If youve ever been on a road trip, a train station, a stadium, or just about any public place, youve benefited from the work that sanitation workers do. Especially since the Swachh Bharat Mission commenced, weve seen a marked difference in both toilet access and toilet hygiene. We credit the Swachh Bharat Mission for it, but we often forget that the key players in this achievement: the sanitation workers. Sanitation workers dont get the credit they are due, and still face enormous social stigma in our society. Harpic, as Indias leading brand in the lavatory care segment, has a deep and nuanced understanding of the specific challenges that these women sanitation workers face, and it decided to put this understanding to good use, when it established the Harpic World Toilet College (HWTC) in 2016. Harpic World Toilet College: Setting New Standards HWTC was established with the stated objective of improving the quality of life of sanitation workers through their rehabilitation by linking them with dignified livelihood options. Workers trained by the college are provided placement with various organisations. Following the successful proof of concept in Rishikesh, HWTCs have opened in Maharashtra, Aurangabad, in partnership with Harpic, Jagran Pehel and Maharashtra Government. There are specific ways in which HWTC uplifts and empowers women sanitation workers. Holistic Training Approach HWTCs training programs are designed to be holistic, addressing not only technical skills but also personal development, health, and safety. Participants also learn about environmental cleanliness, water-related issues, and different sanitation practices. Improved Health and Safety Through training, women sanitation workers have gained awareness of health hazards and the importance of safety gear. The college emphasises the importance of safety gear and health precautions to protect workers from infections and hazards they may encounter during their work. Economic Independence The increase in income and the availability of benefits like Provident Fund and Employee State Insurance have provided economic stability to these women and their families. They are no longer solely dependent on irregular daily wages but have access to financial security. Skill Enhancement and Career Advancement HWTC equips participants with skills that extend beyond sanitation work. From digital literacy to other soft skills, these programs enable women to explore new career paths and diversify their income streams. More income streams = better financial security = a better future for themselves and their families. Social Recognition HWTCs initiatives lead to social recognition and respect for women sanitation workers. As they excel in their new roles and become self-reliant, their communities appreciate their contributions more. Moreover, the training and certification provided uplifts the profession from unskilled to skilled. This shift in perception is instrumental in breaking down societal barriers. Empowering Mindsets, Creating Community Leaders HWTC offers motivational support, enabling women sanitation workers to overcome societal stigmas and gain confidence in their abilities. These sessions equip them with the courage to express themselves, both within their communities and families. They offer a chance to learn from one another, and from other women who have already been on the journey, and now stand as shining examples of whats possible. As a result, they emerge as leaders, advocating for proper training and recognition for all sanitation workers. Stories of Transformation At HWTC, the before and after transformation is a stark one. The sanitation workers come from poor, marginalised backgrounds, often work in the unorganised sector, and have very low self-esteem resulting from constant exclusion and dismissal. Then they receive training, and placement in the organised sector. Now, they have jobs that pay them well, have employee benefits, decent working hours, and access to protective gear. The psychological impact is massive. Possibly, for the first time in their lives, these people feel a sense of pride in the work that they do. So while this kind of transformation is almost the norm at HWTC, there are some shining examples that really stand out. Maya Sable: A Beacon of Hope After 12 years of working in deplorable conditions in the unorganised sector, she found herself as the sole provider for her three daughters. Mayas journey took a positive turn when she completed her training at HWTC. Placed at a Clean and Care Facilities Service in Housekeeping, she now earns more than double her previous salary and enjoys benefits like PPE kits, Provident Fund, ESI, and insurance. Her education improved her financial situation, and empowered her to raise awareness among and advocate for proper training for all sanitation workers. Chhaya Warekar: Working for a Better Future When her husband lost his job due to alcohol addiction, Chhaya sought training at HWTC. She was placed as a housekeeper at Dhoot Hospital, Aurangabad, where her salary now includes benefits like PF and ESIC. Chhaya works hard to provide her children with the best education possible, hoping that they will one day become government officers. Her education has allowed her to escape the hardships of unsafe sanitation work and pursue a brighter future for her family. Tara Devanand Koli: Rising Above Comfort Zones Tara Devanand Koli, a toilet cleaner, was known for taking on tasks that others refused to do. After enrolling in HWTCs training program, Taras newfound confidence allowed her to seek better opportunities and secure a job at Hedgewar Hospital, Aurangabad. In the midst of a pandemic, she even volunteered to clean COVID-19 wards, demonstrating her dedication and commitment to public health. Her education broadened her horizons and encouraged her to step out of her comfort zone. These stories are just the tip of the iceberg there are hundreds more. Training and certification is just one part of the larger solution to creating safe, judgement, stigma and ostracisation free spaces for sanitation workers. There is a need for greater dialogue and for creating awareness; and thats where Mission Swachhta aur Paani comes in. Three years ago, Harpic joined hands with News18 to create Mission Swachhta aur Paani, a movement that champions the cause of inclusive sanitation, equality for all genders, abilities, castes and classes and the strong belief that clean toilets are a shared responsibility. Mission Swachhta aur Paani creates the space for dialogue on key issues regarding toilet access and toilet hygiene, and the problems that sanitation workers face. These discussions involve government officials, NGOs, activists, sanitation workers, educators and members of the public. The aim is to come up with informed solutions to nuanced problems, and raise the awareness of the general public about the problems we contribute to, and how we can reverse that trend. Join us here, to learn about how you can be a part of the solution. Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the ancient Indian saying, translates to The World is One Family. This profound concept encapsulates the essence of unity and interconnectedness that transcends borders and boundaries. In the context of our communities, this sentiment reminds us that we are not isolated entities but part of a larger whole. Within our neighbourhoods, its the people who work relentlessly behind the scenes, often in unnoticed roles, who uphold the values of unity and cleanliness, embodying the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. One group of unsung heroes who exemplify this spirit are the women sanitation workers who tirelessly serve in our local neighbourhoods. These remarkable individuals play a pivotal role in creating cleaner and healthier communities, often without receiving the recognition they truly deserve. The Guardians of Health Women sanitation workers are the guardians of public health in our neighbourhoods. They work relentlessly to collect and dispose of waste, ensuring that our surroundings remain free from disease-causing contaminants. Their efforts in garbage collection, waste disposal, and maintaining public toilets contribute significantly to disease prevention and overall well-being. Take the story of Rani Devi from Patna, Bihar. Rani was left to fend for herself after her husbands departure, working as a domestic helper for her livelihood. However, Ranis determination and the training she received through organisations like the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) transformed her life. Rani took it upon herself to form a womens sanitation worker group focused on mechanised cleaning. Under her leadership, this cooperative team tackled sewer cleaning and waste management with pride and dignity. Rani and her team not only improved their own lives but also made their neighbourhood cleaner and safer. Agents of Change Another aspect of their work makes them formidable agents of transformation is advocacy. Women sanitation workers who, through training and education, are able to transform their own lives, will almost always reach out to their peers, and share what they have learnt. Usha Chaumars story from Alwar, Rajasthan, is a shining example of this. Usha entered sanitation work at the tender age of 7, bearing all the discrimination and social stigma the profession is associated with. However, she chose to defy these stereotypes and through the support and training she received from Sulabh International, became a shining example for change. Today, she is the President of Sulabh International Social Service Organisation, inspiring and enabling thousands of other sanitation workers like herself. Moreover, Usha has created a life for herself that is exemplary in itself, and provides inspiration to many women like her her oldest son is pursuing a postgraduate degree, something she knows he wouldnt have had access to, without the choices she made. Empowering Backward Communities In India, the caste system adds another layer of complexity to the discrimination that sanitation workers already face. Organisations like the Centre for Development (CFD) have helped many champions emerge from within these communities, thereby helping them help themselves. Pushpaben Parmar, for instance, hails from the Valmiki community in Ahmedabad. Despite facing challenges, Pushpaben emerged as a prominent grassroots social worker. She has been instrumental in forming womens self-help groups. Pushpabens impact extends far beyond her community. She helps individuals access employment opportunities, ensuring a more secure future for them. Additionally, she played a pivotal role in forming three Sakhi Mandals under the Samaveshi Sehar project, enabling 30 women from her locality to save money regularly. I have also been able to help women in my community avail gas cylinders (LPG) under the Ujwala Yojana, Pushpaben proudly mentions. Education and Empowerment The story of Venkatalakshmi from Narsapur, Andhra Pradesh, is a testament to the transformative power of education. Hailing from a tribal community and facing societal barriers as a woman, Venkatalakshmi defied expectations. She took over her familys desludging business, securing loans, hiring drivers, and gradually building her reputation as a successful entrepreneur. She also taught herself not just the engineering and operational aspects of the truck but also the business aspects of running the enterprise. Today, she operates her desludging trucks and empowers her family to work alongside her. A Brighter Future Women sanitation workers in our neighbourhoods are not just cleaning streets; they are improving lives. Their stories highlight the critical role they play in ensuring cleaner and healthier communities. Fortunately, in India, it isnt just NGOs and grassroots organisations that are working with these communities, but also brands with deeper pockets. As Indias leading brand in the lavatory care segment, Harpic has a very nuanced understanding of the challenges and problems these women face. Leveraging this understanding into real world action, Harpic established the Harpic World Toilet College (HWTC) in 2016 with the stated objective of improving the quality of life of sanitation workers through their rehabilitation by linking them with dignified livelihood options. Workers trained by the college are provided placement with various organisations. Following the successful proof of concept in Rishikesh, HWTCs have opened in Maharashtra, Aurangabad, in partnership with Harpic, Jagran Pehel and Maharashtra Government. Of course, thats not all Harpic is doing. 3 years ago, joining hands with News18, Harpic created Mission Swachhta aur Paani a movement that champions the cause of inclusive sanitation, equality for all genders, abilities, castes and classes and the strong belief that clean toilets are a shared responsibility. Mission Swachhta aur Paani is powering the right conversations amongst stakeholders who have the power to make real tangible change, by bringing together stakeholders across the decision making spectrum from elected government officials, to bureaucrats, to activists, NGOs, grassroots organisations and sanitation workers. These dialogues provoke deep understanding and corrective action at regional, municipal and hopefully, one day, national levels. Mission Swachhta aur Paani also leverages News18s immense reach to get these powerful stories out to readers like you. After all, society is made up of people like us. What we think and care about is what society thinks and cares about. The more we know about injustices and discrimination that keep a community down, the more compelled we are to take action against it. Our conversations matter. Even if they are conversations around the water cooler at work, or at the dinner table at home. Conversations bring nuance, understanding, compassion and empathy. Most importantly, they also fuel action. Join us here, to learn how you too, can be an agent of change, and help us build a more equitable, fair, compassionate, Swachh and Swasth Bharat. In the tapestry of socio-economic progress, collaboration is the weaver that brings threads of expertise, resources, and intent together to craft impactful change. Within this intricate fabric are the stories of women sanitation workers in India, who, through the power of partnerships, are experiencing transformative empowerment. The journey towards the empowerment of women sanitation workers has been a collective effort, bringing together non-governmental organisations (NGOs), government bodies, and corporations. Mahatma Gandhi once said, You may never know what results come of your actions, but if you do nothing, there will be no results. This adage perfectly encapsulates the essence of partnerships in driving change. NGOs, government agencies, and corporations have recognized the urgent need to empower women sanitation workers and have joined hands to craft solutions. Partnerships as Catalysts for Change NGOs Leading the Way: Several NGOs have been at the forefront of empowering women sanitation workers. Organisations like Sulabh International and the Centre for Development (CFD) have been instrumental in providing training, support, and advocacy. They leverage their grassroots presence to reach women at the community level and enable them to break free from the shackles of traditional roles. Government Initiatives: Government bodies at the local, state, and national levels play a pivotal role in policy formulation and resource allocation. Initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Mission have propelled sanitation into the limelight, resulting in increased attention and investment. Government partnerships with NGOs ensure the effective implementation of programs and policies. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Many corporations have recognized their social responsibility and have dedicated resources to uplift marginalised communities. CSR initiatives often collaborate with NGOs and government agencies to create sustainable models for women sanitation workers empowerment. These initiatives encompass financial support, skill development, and awareness campaigns. As Indias leading brand in the lavatory care segment, Harpic has a deep and nuanced understanding of the challenges that women sanitation workers face. It channelled this understanding into the creation of Harpic World Toilet College (HWTC) in 2016. HWTC was established with the stated objective of improving the quality of life of sanitation workers through their rehabilitation by linking them with dignified livelihood options. Workers trained by the college are provided placement with various organisations. Following the successful proof of concept in Rishikesh, HWTCs have opened in Maharashtra, Aurangabad, in partnership with Harpic, Jagran Pehel and Maharashtra Government. Comprehensive Training and Skill Development Collaborative efforts have brought about comprehensive training and skill development programs specifically tailored for women sanitation workers. The HWTC is one shining example. This innovative institution is dedicated to providing sanitation workers with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in their roles. HWTC offers practical training in various aspects of sanitation, waste management, and safety measures. Women sanitation workers acquire hands-on experience and expertise, empowering them to perform their duties more effectively. Understanding the importance of health and hygiene is fundamental. Collaborative programs like those offered by HWTC include modules on personal hygiene, which are vital for the well-being of sanitation workers in their daily work. Empowerment goes beyond skills; it includes financial independence. Training programs often incorporate financial literacy modules to help women sanitation workers manage their earnings and plan for their future. They may also include modules on entrepreneurship where women sanitation workers are encouraged to explore business opportunities in related fields, such as waste management and cleaning services. Collaborative efforts between govt bodies, NGOs and grassroots organisations often facilitate access to government welfare schemes, including insurance and pension plans. This ensures that women sanitation workers have financial security in the long run. These same partnerships are also instrumental in raising awareness and advocating for the rights and dignity of women sanitation workers. These collaborative efforts address societal attitudes and prejudices. Partners engage with communities to dispel myths and stereotypes associated with sanitation work. They help foster a sense of respect and appreciation for the invaluable services provided by women sanitation workers. Empowerment is also about building self-confidence and dignity. HWTCs curriculum, for instance, includes soft skills modules that help these women have the confidence to speak up when needed. Since HWTC also undertakes placements, these graduates often walk out of training with jobs in the organised sector. These are jobs where these women are paid fairly, have access to PPEs, and are set up with insurance and a provident fund account. To say the experience is life changing is an understatement. Sending out ripples of change For Harpic, the work that began with HWTC took on more breadth with Mission Swachhta aur Paani. Harpic joined hands with News18 in Mission Swachhta aur Paani, a movement that champions the cause of inclusive sanitation, equality for all genders, abilities, castes and classes and the strong belief that clean toilets are a shared responsibility. For 3 years now, Mission Swachhta aur Paani has brought together the right stakeholders on a common platform, so that issues of importance can be discussed, and solutions found. These stakeholders include govt officials, municipalities, NGOs, activists, grassroots organisations and of course, sanitation workers. Mission Swachhta aur Paani also functions as a repository for information on a vast variety of topics surrounding toilet access, toilet hygiene, and both the work sanitation workers do, and the challenges they face. More importantly, Mission Swachhta aur Paani is bringing you stories of women sanitation workers who have beaten all odds to emerge as leaders in their communities. India is a huge cultural melting pot, and sometimes, we dont even know about the problems we are contributing to. This is why these stories matter, because they shine a light on our privilege, and the prejudices we are unconsciously party to. Join us here, to learn how you can be a part of the solution that brings us closer to a just, equitable, Swachh and Swasth Bharat. Lakshmi Manchu broke her silence on the viral video in which she was seen hitting a man. Earlier this month, Lakshmi was seen attending South Indian International Movie Awards aka SIIMA 2023 with several other South Indian stars. During the awards show, she was seen in between an interview when a man suddenly walked into the frame. The actress was visibly upset with the intrusion and hit the man. In a new interview, Lakshmi addressed the viral video and justified hitting the man. She said that he got what he deserved. Lakshmi added that she understands what the journalist must have felt during the moment because she has also been through similar situations when she is interviewing other people. It was not some random person taking a video. But he was so nonchalant and just walked through the camera. I am an actor, you dont come in front of my camera. Never do that with any artiste. He rightly got what he deserved. These are basic manners that people dont have. I slapped him and he deserved it. I didnt go out of my way. He came into my world, Lakshmi said while speaking with Hindustan Times. That's what happens when you casually stroll into my masterpiece! Remember, I'm not just an artist, I'm also a professional 'frame-thrower.' Hehehe! Violence is never the answer BUT. #LakshmiManchu #Duurrrr #GoBehindTheCameraDude #Basic #LakshmiUnfiltered pic.twitter.com/O65ghph8y3 Manchu Lakshmi Prasanna (@LakshmiManchu) September 26, 2023 Lakshmi said that she insisted the cameraperson keep the clip in the final cut of the video. I asked her to keep it. I can protect myself. I dont care if it gets out. I am also an interviewer and have seen people come and say certain things where they feel they have shared too much. And then I get a call back asking me not to air that. Ive done that for every celebrity and you respect them. But I dont care, she added. Meanwhile, on the work front, Lakshmi was last seen in the Malayalam action film Monster. The actress starred alongside Mohanlal. Raveena Tandon refused to answer a question seemingly about Akshay Kumars infidelity in a new interview. The actress was dating the actor in 1995 and was also allegedly briefly engaged to him. However, the couple split after a while. Although Raveena and Akshay have not revealed the real reason of their split, Raveena had once hinted that infidelity was the reason they split. In a new interview, Raveena was asked about infidelity in relationships, hinting at Akshay Kumar. But the actress refused to indulge. I would rather not discuss that, she said, speaking with Lehren Retro. When asked if infidelity remains to be a deal breaker, Raveena said, Every relationship, according to me, is based on faith, love, honesty and trust. Raveena seems to have resolved her issues with Akshay. The actors made a rare joint appearance earlier this year at an awards show and have now signed Welcome 3, formally known as Welcome to the Jungle. The announcement was made earlier this month and Raveena joined Akshay and other cast members in an announcement video of the movie. Meanwhile, in the same interview, Raveena said that while she has her share of history on the relationships front, she and her husband, producer Anil Thadani have not discussed their pasts with each other. He prefers not to discuss things that are probably very personal to him and his past and I didnt want to poke, and neither do I (prefer to discuss), she said. When Raveena met Anil, he had been through a divorce. Speaking about their first meeting, Raveena recalled, We met and we started talking on August 4, 2003, and by February 2004, we were married. The couple has been married for almost 20 years now and have two children together Chhaya Tandan and Ranbir Thadani. The family is often spotted together spending time at home and taking trip together. After a month full of celebrations, the festival of Ganpati is about to reach its crescendo. As the celebs continue to partake in the festive fervour, CM of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde organised a Ganpati Darshan, which was attended by Shah Rukh Khan and Shehnaaz Gill. Amid the pictures and videos that are trickling onto social media, the one where Shehnaaz Gill received a hug from King Khan has gone viral. In the picture, one can notice Shehnaaz Gills mustard-coloured kurti and black dupatta. Meanwhile, Shah Rukh Khan looked dapper in a white ethic Kurta. Although, the pictures are not clear enough, the fans have certainly gone berserk with this wholesome rendezvous. Check it out: Shehnaaz Gill is gearing up for her next release Thank You For Coming with Bhumi Pednekar, Kusha Kapila, Dolly Singh, and Shibani Bedi. The trailer has already been released and it has received a lot of love from the audience. Amid this, the actress was recently spotted in the city visiting the Lalbaugcha Raja temple. She looked very pretty in pink colour ethnic wear. Shehnaaz was seen wearing a pink colour kurta with the same colour sharara. To complete the look she opted for bun and applied minimalistic makeup. Fans gathered around her to see and take selfies. Even the star also obliged them. Videos and photos are trending on social media. Meanwhile, talking about Thank You For Coming, the film is directed by Karan Boolani and is produced by Rhea Kapoor. The film recently premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival. Thank You For Coming features Bhumi Pednekar, Shehnaaz Gill, Kusha Kapila, Dolly Singh, Shibani Bedi and Anil Kapoor in key roles. The film was first premiered at the festival on Friday, September 15 and then on Saturday, September 16. The film is releasing on October 6 across the world. Actor Siddharth was promoting his upcoming movie Chikku on Thursday, September 28 in Bengaluru when members of an alleged pro-Kannada group disrupted the event and created a ruckus. Reportedly, they stopped the event midway and asked the actor to cancel it. As reported by the news agency ANI, the members told Siddharth that it is not the right time for him to promote his movie as Karnataka is battling over the Cauvery water with Tamil Nadu. As a result, even before Siddharth could address the media and talk about his films, he had to walk out of the press conference. A video of the incident has also surfaced on social media. In the video, the members of pro-Kannada group can be seen protesting against the event. While Siddharth remain seated calmly in the beginning, he then stood up, thanked everyone with folded hands and walked out. Watch it here: #WATCH | Bengaluru | Members of Karnataka Karnataka Rakshana Vedike Swabhimani Sene interrupted a press conference being held by actor Siddharth for his film 'Chikku' and demanded that he leave the venue. The members said that it was not an appropriate time for him to do this PC pic.twitter.com/R2QXbxgbbR ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2023 For the unversed, the protest comes days after the Cauvery Water Regulatory Committee (CWRC) recommended the Karnataka government to release 3,000 cusecs (cubic feet per second) of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu for 18 days. This left the Karnataka government disappointed and the ruling Congress has now decided to challenge the order in the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, talking about Siddharths movie Chikku, it is helmed by SU Arun Kumar and is said to be an intense family drama. Reportedly, the film is about a man who is doing all he could to find his lost niece. Siddharth is not just playing the lead in the film but is also producing it. Chikku will hit theatres on September 28, 2023. Actor Ranbir Kapoor shared a very strained relationship with his father Rishi Kapoor, who passed away in 2020 after battling cancer. In 2015, Rishi Kapoor had emotionally admitted to have screwed up his equation with his actor son. Rishi was taken aback by Ranbirs decision to move out of the family home in 2014. In a 2015 interview with Mumbai Mirror, Rishi had spoken at length about how Ranbirs decision left him and wife Neetu Kapoor heartbroken. My father gave me space when I moved out after marriage and I give Ranbir his space too when he decided to move out and share a home with his girlfriend. In this house, he had one room: how could that be enough for a 33-year-old boy? Hes a great son, he listens to me but I dont interfere in his career because my career is mine and his is his. I know Ive screwed up my relationship with Ranbir even though my wife kept telling me about what I was doing. Its now too late to change it; both of us will not be able to adjust to the change. Its like theres this glass wall, we can see each other, we can talk, but thats it. He doesnt live with us anymore, which is also a very big setback to Neetu and me, Rishi told Mumbai Mirror, according to Hindustan Times. Further elaborating on their equation, Rishi had said, Out of respect I was always very scared of my father. I dont know about Ranbir; of course he respects me, but Ive never been friends with him and that is my biggest drawback. Its also a deep regret but again, I dont know. Only time will tell if it is something thats good or not. Ranbir tied the knot with actress Alia Bhatt in April 2022, two years after Rishis death. Ranbir and Alia welcomed their first child together, a baby girl, in November last year. Ranbir is currently gearing up for the release of Animal. India displaying its disdain for Canadian accusations was visible when the Canadian High Commissioner, Cameron MacKay, walked back to his car after being summoned by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). His expressions said it all. He was in and out of the MEA in under 5 minutes, without a formal escort, carrying a terse message of the expelling of a Canadian diplomat. Further evidence of India ignoring Canada is that neither the foreign minister nor Prime Minister Modi bothered to comment on Canadian PM Justin Trudeaus accusations, leaving it to the spokesperson of the MEA, Arindam Bagchi. India has firmly projected that it has no intention of participating in a sham Canadian investigation. The West has limited options. It can neither insist nor sanction nor compel India to cooperate. It can only request. Even if India was responsible for the incident, the West could never accuse it publicly as their methods of obtaining intelligence were illegal. There were no witnesses nor video inputs and none has thus far been arrested, implying that all evidence is conjecture and circumstantial, which will never stand scrutiny in a court of law. Canada is in a fix. If it shares unethical snooping intelligence inputs, it can be taken to task for violating the Vienna Convention. This can open doors for India as well as other nations to adopt similar measures even against allies. If such unethical information is placed in the public domain, can the US and its allies ever question China and Russia for similar unethical actions? India stopping the issuance of visas and confiscating the property of Khalistanis, mostly based in Canada, are adding to pressures on the Trudeau government. After all, many Indo-Canadians have families in India, whom they visit during the currently commencing festival season. All may not be Khalistani. With relations at an ebb, Trudeaus government cannot request India to reconsider its decision. Indias next step would be to block OCI cards of suspected Khalistanis. This will lock them in Canada itself, segregating them from India. The NIA is being tasked to block the inflow and outflow of funds between Canada and Punjab from suspected Khalistanis, reducing the influence of Canada-based gangs in Punjab. India had wanted to do so for some time but was avoiding impacting diplomatic ties. Ottawa, by its accusations, provided this opportunity. Canada, which failed to act on Indian dossiers as also Interpols Red Corner notices is now left twiddling its thumbs when India is acting on its own intelligence. When India shared intelligence on Khalistani actions, Canada claimed intelligence is not evidence. Currently, all Canada has is intelligence against India, aware that India would not accept it on similar objections. The US cannot insist on India cooperating with the Canadian investigation. It knows that India can respond to future US actions of eliminating terrorists in multiple parts of the globe, over which India has maintained silence. It had earlier retaliated to US comments on its human rights by showing them the mirror when S Jaishankar stated in Washington, We take up human rights issues when they arise in this country, especially when they pertain to our community. Other G7 nations, as also Canadas five eye partners, Australia and New Zealand, are unwilling to be drawn into the controversy. Nations like Sri Lanka, whom Ottawa had earlier accused of genocide, now have an opportunity to hit back. Its foreign minister, Ali Sabry, stated, Some terrorists have found safe haven in Canada. The Canadian PM has a way of just coming out with outrageous allegations without any supporting proof. Bangladesh also has a grudge against Canada, which refuses to repatriate Noor Chowdhury, the killer of its first Prime Minister Sheikh Mujibur Rehman. Noor Chaudhury has been permitted to stay in Canada despite not being granted refugee status. The recent incident where a Nazi war criminal was applauded in the Canadian House of Commons adds credence to Jaishankars comment that Canada is home to terrorists, gangsters and war criminals. Indias response to Canada was summed up by Jaishankar when he stated on the UNGA platform, Nor must we countenance that political convenience determines responses to terrorism, extremism, and violence. Similarly, respect for territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs cannot be exercises in cherry-picking. Canada was not named but the target was evident. Whether India was involved or not is unknown nor it will be proved. But the incident and Indias subsequent actions, including confiscating property has sent a clear message. The latest protests in Canada had just a handful of Sikhs present, as compared to hundreds earlier. Most present had their faces covered, fearing recognition. Many are aware that in case they protest, they could be prohibited from entering India. Khalistan leaders have moved into hiding and many are hiring personal protection services. All Western nations, including the US, UK and Australia, where sizeable Khalistani supporters reside, will have to ensure that their activities do not cross a threshold. None can ever permit a repeat of San Francisco or London, where Indian diplomatic property was damaged. Canada has increased protection around Indian embassies and consulates fearing that any incident resulting in damage would push relations downhill faster than could be imagined. Any hope of India even considering cooperation would end. Most countries around the globe, except Pakistan, are least concerned about Canadian claims. If the US had been involved in a similar incident, international condemnation would have followed. The world believes in India and its philosophy. Nations are aware that Canada is a US lackey, with no standing on the global stage, and Washington, being a neighbour, will jump to its support. The world waits and watches what proof is provided by Canada. If it is unethical, then Russia and China would be amongst the first to exploit it. It would be difficult for the West to subsequently defend its actions. The killing of a known terrorist, on whom the Trudeau government failed to act, despite proof, has opened a can of worms and will have a far-reaching global impact, in case unethical means were employed to obtain intelligence. Those involved in providing snooping intelligence to Canada are hesitant to own up, fearing criticism and impacting ties with India. Canada, on its part, has only intelligence (not evidence), no witnesses and no actionable proof. With such data, it can never legally implicate India nor compel New Delhi to cooperate. Ideally, Canada should have maintained silence, investigated and then possibly discussed their findings with India. Now that Trudeau jumped the gun, Canada is in a bind. Canadian politicians, including Jagmeet Singh of the NDP (New Democratic Party), are now shifting accusations of India interfering in Canadian politics by raising the anti-Khalistan and anti-Trudeau bogey in its own and global media. There is a demand that India should be included in the open inquiry currently underway of interference in Canadian elections. For India, this is of no concern. How Canadians view Indian response is their problem. In the ultimate analysis, Canada needs to take the first step to tone down its rhetoric. It must also re-visit its policies on freedom of speech and protests, restricting anti-India voices. Once this is visible, India could cooperate and restore ties. If both nations stick to their guns, relations will only move downhill. Indian diaspora in Canada will lose touch with their homeland resulting in Trudeau losing political advantage. Canada would be impacted by the Indian government going slow on permitting its students for further studies in Canada. Apart from some support from the US, Canada has been left alone in its fight against India. This projects the limited utility of Canada in the current geopolitical arena. India has the ability to shoulder any impact from Canada but Ottawa has limited options. India is aware and hence refuses to simmer down. The faster Trudeau understands, the better it will be for Canada. The author is a retired Major General of the Indian Army. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. In an interesting turn of events, Sita Soren, a Jharkhand MLA and the daughter-in-law of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) supremo Shibu Soren, has inadvertently opened a can of worms for her father-in-law in a 30-year-old cash-for-vote scam. Sita Soren, who allegedly accepted a bribe to vote for an independent Rajya Sabha candidate in 2012, sought immunity under Article 194(2). The article states, No member of the legislature of a state shall be liable to any proceedings in any court in respect of anything said or any vote given by him in the legislature or any committee thereof. A corresponding article for Parliament, Article 105(2) was relied upon by a five-judge bench in 1998 to absolve Shibu Soren from culpability in a similar cash-for-vote scam. Shibu Soren and three of his associates Simon Marandi, Shailendra Mahto, and Suraj Mandal voted in 1993 in the Parliament to defeat a no-confidence motion against the incumbent Narasimha Rao government at the Centre. Incriminating evidence was found against them to have accepted bribes to vote against the motion. Rs 30 lakh cash was deposited in the Delhi PNB account of the then MP Suraj Mandal on August 1, 1993, four days after the JMM MPs had voted with the government to defeat the no-confidence motion. The members even admitted during their trial under the Prevention of Corruption Act that they had received money from the Congress in 1993 for their support to the confidence motion. However, a Supreme Court bench acquitting them, ruled that they had immunity for any acts committed inside the Parliament under Article 105(2). Ironically, the same immunity wasnt extended to Ajit Singh who had chosen to abstain from voting after allegedly taking a bribe. The decision thus protected those who had voted after receiving a bribe but not those who abstained after receiving a bribe in the same case. As bizarre as it sounded, the verdict not only exonerated MPs who had dealt a severe blow to the sanctity of democratic processes but also paved the way for others to misuse the immunity. Two subsequent challenges to the decision were not entertained by the apex court. It looked like a deja vu, two decades later when the CBI chargesheeted Shibu Sorens daughter-in-law Sita Soren in an alleged case of horse trading during the 2012 Rajya Sabha elections in Jharkhand. Sita Soren is the widow of Shibu Sorens elder son, Durga Soren, once considered the natural successor to Shibus political legacy. Sita had allegedly received money from RK Agarwal, an independent candidate in the 2012 Rajya Sabha polls. Income tax officials had seized Rs 2.15 crore in cash on the day of the election. The polls were countermanded, and a chargesheet was filed against her as well as her father and private secretary as co-accused. Interestingly, the prosecution as well as defence, both relied on the same 1998 judgement to support their argument. The prosecution argued that since Sita Soren eventually didnt vote for the candidate after receiving a bribe, just like Ajit Singh, she shouldnt be accorded immunity. The defence quoting the same judgement, sought immunity citing article 194(2). What felt like a clever escape through a constitutional loophole has come back to bite the original decision and its beneficiaries too. The three-judge bench hearing Sita Sorens plea referred the case to a five-judge bench since it involved the interpretation of the original 1998 decision. The CJI-headed bench has further referred it to a seven-judge bench citing the need for the previous 1998 majority view to be considered. The CJI-headed bench noted in its decision: The purpose of Articles 105(2) and 194(2) is to ensure that members of Parliament and assemblies are able to discharge duties in an atmosphere of freedom without fear of the consequences that may follow. The object clearly is not to set apart the members of the legislature as persons who wield higher privileges in terms of immunity from the application of the general criminal law of the land which citizens of the land do not possess. Jharkhand has often been the first in terms of such political machinations. This marred the first fifteen years of the state with unstable governments and policies which kept changing like a flip of cards. The unprecedented appointment of Madhu Koda, an independent MLA as the chief minister was an outcome of such machinations, a feat unimagined anywhere else in India. Currently, the younger Soren and Jharkhand CM, Hemant, is also facing heat from the ED in a number of corruption cases including the Sahibganj mining scam, land allotment and money laundering cases. The Supreme Court last week declined to entertain Hemants plea against EDs action, granting him the option to approach the High Court. However, with incriminating evidence against Hemant, he is unlikely to get any relief from HC either. ED has already issued five summons to Hemant and wouldnt be long before he has to finally appear and answer questions on a range of corruption issues. The troubles for Jharkhands first family seem to be piling up with Shibu Soren also getting added to the list of Hemant and Sita who would have to face the music for their misdemeanours soon. The author is Election Management Chief, BJP Jharkhand and has earlier worked in various bureaucratic and corporate roles. He holds an Engineering Degree from BIT Mesra and an MBA from XLRI, Jamshedpur. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. Selcuk Bayraktar, a Turkish engineer and entrepreneur, CTO and co-owner of Baykar, has effectively made Turkey the world leader in military drones. Recently, the company announced that it is preparing to fly the Bayraktar TB3 strike UAV, which can take off and land on ships with a short runway. ADVERTISIMENT MIT graduate Selcuk Bayraktar is also the son-in-law of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Bloomberg writes about this. "In recent years, Baykar has become a key part of Erdogan's efforts to build a self-sufficient defense industry, producing products ranging from armed drones to fighter jets and warships. All of these are designed to support his increasingly aggressive foreign policy in a region mired in conflict. But since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, foreign sales of UAVs have also steadily increased, giving Turkey greater political influence far beyond the Middle East," the article says. In a commentary to the publication, Baykar said that the company will soon begin mass production of at least one of the two advanced drones that will take off from the newly built Turkish mini-aircraft carrier TCG Anadolu. ADVERTISIMENT At the same time, Baykar is looking to expand its market share from Africa to Europe and Asia with its existing TB2 and Akinci unmanned combat vehicles, as well as the recently developed TB3 and Kizielma. He stated that the new drones "will revolutionize Turkey's military influence from the Black Sea and the Caucasus to the eastern Mediterranean and the shores of North Africa." They "will allow Turkey to monitor and detect attacks on continents by increasing their flight time and range." According to the article, Turkey's use of UAVs emphasizes the changing face of warfare in one of the world's most unstable regions. For example, the drones have turned the tide of Ankara's long-running struggle against the Kurdistan Workers' Party in the southeast of the country, northern Iraq and Syria. Relatively cheap to manufacture and use, the drones have in recent years helped turn conflicts in far-flung places like Azerbaijan and Libya in favor of Turkey's allies. ADVERTISIMENT Over the past two decades, the company has made 82% of its profits from exports, Bayraktar said, adding that production capacity has increased by 50% in the past year. As OBOZREVATEL reported, a service center for the repair and maintenance of Turkish Bayraktar UAVs will appear in Ukraine. The manufacturer of these drones, BAYKAR MAKINA, and the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine signed an agreement on the construction of the center. Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Many foreign-made objects have encroached on our lives and getting rid of them is important for saving the country This was Prime Minister Narendra Modis message to more than 3,000 students from various colleges and universities at the G20 University Connect Finale event recently. PM Modi has called on Indias youth, especially students, to make Khadi clothes a fashion trend, and for colleges and universities to emerge as hubs for the Vocal for Local movement. The Rise of Khadi Sector Since 2014 The Khadi industry has seen incredible growth over the past nine years, and credit for the same goes to the Modi government. A series of initiatives with the end goal of complementing the Make in India and Vocal for Local missions have been rolled out over the past nine years. Here are some more fascinating numbers. In the last fiscal, Indias Khadi and village industries set a record. For the first time since independence, the turnover of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) crossed Rs 1.34 lakh crore. Just to put this figure in perspective, the turnover of KVIC in 2013-14 was a mere Rs 31,154 crore. Since 2014, there has been a whopping 332 per cent rise in the sale of indigenous Khadi products made by artisans in rural areas. In FY 2022-23, the production of Khadi and Village Industries products has increased by 268 per cent to reach Rs 95,957 crore, compared to Rs 26,109 crore in FY 2013-14. Production of Khadi clothing stood at Rs 811 crore in FY 2013-14. Today, it has grown by 260 per cent to reach Rs 2,916 crore. In FY 2022-23, the sales of Khadi and Village Industries products reached Rs 1,34,630 crore, registering a 332 per cent increase from the Rs 31,154 crore sales that were registered in FY 2013-14. Meanwhile, sales of Khadi clothing increased by 450 per cent to reach Rs 5,943 crore in FY 2022-23, compared to Rs 1,081 crore in FY 2013-14. Khadi and Village Industries Commission has achieved another important laurel of creating jobs. The KVIC has created more than 9.5 lakh new jobs in rural India in the last fiscal. Compared to 2013-14, that is a growth of 70 per cent. Workers involved in the Khadi sector have also seen their incomes increase as both production and sales of Khadi clothes expand. Since 2014, their remuneration has increased by more than 150 per cent. Moreover, as of April 1, 2023, the wages of Khadi artisans have been further increased by more than 33 per cent. Efforts have been made to rebrand Khadi as a fashionable and contemporary fabric. Some of the steps taken to strengthen the Khadi industry include: Rebates on Khadi products have been replaced with the market development assistance (MDA) scheme since April 1, 2021. Under MDA, 25 per cent of assistance is given to spinners and weavers as an additional incentive. KVIC has been collaborating with various government departments like railways, defence, and health & family welfare to increase the sale of Khadi and village industries products. The government is also utilising KVIC to boost Khadi sales by selling products through a network of outlets, an online portal, and participating in events like IITF 2022 and Lakme Fashion Week. Social media is being used to drive Khadi sales and promote it as a contemporary fabric. Initiatives, discounts, and collaborations with NIFT for design development are also in place to further support the growth of Khadi products. 12 young designers from the International Institute of Fashion Design (INIFD) showcased Khadi clothes at the London Fashion Week earlier this year. In an effort to further popularise Khadi internationally, Prime Minister Modi used the G20 Summit as a forum to present Khadi shawls to world leaders. The PM himself frequently dons Khadi attire like jackets and kurtas. In fact, in August, PM Modi tied the usage of Khadi products to an individuals self-respect. He said, This Khadi is not just a piece of cloth but also a weapon for those with self-respect, who are proud of the nation, and who dream of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. There is much talk today about reducing humanitys carbon footprint. At an individual level, Indians can join this mission by starting to use Khadi fabric more often. A major challenge faced by the Khadi industry is adoption. A lot of Indians even today are unwilling to accept Khadi as their go-to clothing choice. Khadis true potential can only be unleashed if Indians make Khadi clothes their primary choice. Khadi fabric is skin-friendly. It keeps the body cool in summer and can absorb moisture and sweat. Khadi fabrics can also keep the body warm during winter. The spinning of Khadi uses no machines or energy and thus has a low carbon footprint. A metre of Khadi fabric consumes three litres of water, while one metre of mill-produced fabric uses 55 litres of water. Cherry on the topping, using Khadi clothes helps rural usually underprivileged families make a living. Extensive use of Khadi can become a collective exercise in the upliftment of lakhs of rural families. Above all, large-scale use of Khadi will give a big shot in the arm to Indias Atmanirbhar mission. It is no wonder then, that the PM has been a big advocate of the youth embracing Khadi goods. More Indians using Khadi goods would have a transformative impact on the economy, environment and livelihoods. It is time to turn Khadi into a global brand. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. Sikhs are undoubtedly the most visible and vocal segment of the Indian diaspora in Canada. And among them, the Khalistanis have got a disproportionate amount of prominence, no doubt as a result of their own rather successful efforts to hijack the community identity in Canada. The Sikhs in Canada who do not support the separatist rhetoric and agenda are low-key and thus even appear to be acquiescent by default. But what about the rest of the Indian diaspora in Canada? According to Statistique Canada, while there are around 7.7 lakh Canadians of Sikh origin, Hindu Canadians number 8.3 lakh. Even if a number of those Hindus are from the Caribbean, East Africa and the Indian Ocean area, it is clear that non-Sikh, Indian-origin Canadians are almost as numerous as Sikhs. Why would Prime Minister Justin Trudeau then decide to put all his political eggs firmly in the Khalistani basket with an eye on the next general elections? Like most Canadians (of all ethnicities) Trudeau knows little about the Khalistan movement, from its genesis to its relevance in todays India. So the Khalistanis find it easy to market themselves as votaries of the right to self-determination rather than a terrorist organisation determined to vivisect India. Trudeau also ignorantly imagines all Canadian Sikhs are Khalistan sympathisers and thus figures that wooing extremists would land him that entire community. But why is no one focussing on the other 8 lakh Indian-origin Canadians? Apart from a Hindu member of Canadas House of Commons Chandra Arya lambasting his own Liberal Party run government for its inaction against the blatantly threatening and subversive actions of Khalistanis, the non-Sikh Indian segment has stayed out of the frame. Yet they have also been the targets of radical Sikhs a factor also always conveniently glossed over by Canadian authorities. Part of the blame for this problem of invisibility may be laid at the door of the broader Indian diaspora. Unlike the Sikhs, who actively foster a cohesive identity with local gurdwaras as the magnet, most other Indian-Canadians have no coalescing factors. Interestingly, there are around 255 gurdwaras in Canada, of which just eight are controlled by Khalistani supporters, according to Indian intelligence sources. And there are around 433 Hindu temples in Canada. However, apart from the Hindu Bangladeshi migrants who have transplanted their similar temple-centred culture from back home to their new places in Canada, other subcontinental co-religionists have no unified temple congregations. Non-Sikh subcontinentals in Canada remain primarily divided into parochial or regional groupings: Gujarati, Punjabi, Sindhi, Tamil, Malayali, Bengali and the like, each with their distinct cultural, social and even religious circles. There may be smaller desi social groups that are pan-Indian in composition and thus buck the parochial trend, but the subversive mantra of India being merely a union of states rather than a national entity is manifest at a broader level in Canada in the absence of countervailing factors. This despite many of them being second or third-generation Indian-Canadians. There is no Sikh-like feeling of community and common purpose among most of the other Indian-Canadian diaspora. Thus, their utility as a monolithic vote-bank for any Canadian politician is zilch; they are too diffused and probably internally dissonant too. As a result, Canadian politicians presume perhaps rightly so that openly Khalistani sympathies will not dangerously queer the pitch for them with the non-Sikh, south Asian voters, who are perhaps perfectly happy to let the Sikhs dominate public life in Canada as they get on with their lucrative professional goals and personal lives. Significantly, of the 19 Canadian MPs of Indian origin, Arya is the only non-Punjabi: he emigrated from Karnataka and also recently became the first MP to speak in Kannada in Parliament. Anita Anand, chair of Canadas treasury board is Hindu too, but half Punjabi and half Tamil. That she as a cabinet minister appears to let Trudeau and Canadian authorities turn a blind eye to Khalistani radical activity indicates the deep dilemma of politicians of this genre. More so as many non-Sikh Indian-Canadians particularly those who went there before the 1980s are also unaware of the hollowness of the Khalistan narrative as they have as little idea of Punjabs recent history as Trudeau. They have no way of separating fact from emotive rhetoric as Khalistanis peddle tales of genocide and persecution. They do not know the separatists connection with criminal gangs in India and Canada and that Punjab has moved on. Indeed, apart from those who lived in north India during the rise of the Punjab problem and saw the ugly turn taken by the radicalised followers of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale which led to the even uglier showdown at the universally revered Harmandir Sahib at Amritsar, very few Indian-Canadians have a clear idea much less an opinion on it. For those who emigrated from Mumbai, Chennai, Surat or Kochi, Blue Star is as distant as the North Star. The generally unaware and probably uninterested Indian-Canadian diaspora then has no inbuilt resistance to the radical narrative of Khalistanis in public life. They would be as likely as the next white person to believe that Hardeep Singh Nijjar was just an inoffensive plumber with a penchant for gurdwara activities despite evidence, including videos, of his violent agenda and terror activities in India. They would believe that evil Indian Jamshed Bandooks killed him too. How much the espousal of the Khalistani agenda has affected Indias relationship with Canada is reflected in the fact that Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to that country in 2015 came 42 years after the previous Indian PM went there on an official trip. Ironically that PM was Indira Gandhi, who stayed for eight days in 1973. That Canada chose to harbour those celebrating her killers and the cause they propagate led to a long deep freeze. And now winter is coming again. The pushback to the Khalistan agenda in Canada cannot only come from India. The Indian-Canadian diaspora as a whole the 7.7 lakh Sikhs plus 8.3 lakh Hindus, minus Khalistanis should also clarify where it stands. Does it condone the Khalistani goal of Indias vivisection being supported by Canadas acts of omission or commission? Do Indian-Canadians think it is ok for their PM to woo a dangerous vote-bank by vilifying India? If not, they should stand up and speak out. The author is a freelance writer. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. In a significant revelation, Telangana Congress president A Revanth Reddy on Wednesday said that the party will give two assembly election tickets to Mynampally Hanumantha Raos family, who just quit the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) because his son, Rohith Rao, was not nominated. The decision has raised eyebrows as many leaders in the grand old party asking for two tickets per family were reportedly turned down. This also goes against the All India Congress Committee (AICC)s Udaipur Declaration. Speaking to the media in an informal chat at his Congress Legislative Party (CLP) office in Hyderabad, Reddy said: We are making an exception for the Mynampally family. We have promised them two tickets and they will be joining the party formally soon. Prominent Congress leaders who have reportedly asked for two tickets each are Nalgonda MP Uttam Kumar Reddy who has requested nominations for himself and his wife N Padmavathi Reddy, former minister Jana Reddy for his two sons, Mulugu MLA D Seethakka and her son Surya, former minister Konda Surekha and her husband Konda Murali, former MP Anjan Kumar Yadav for his two sons, former union minister Balaram Naik for himself and his son, former MLA P Vishnuvardhan Reddy and his sister Vijaya Reddy, senior leader R Ramya Rao and her son Ritesh Rao, and others. Thus, the decision to give two tickets to the Mynampally family can open a can of worms. Revanth Reddy and Mynampally Hamumantha Rao are reportedly close friends as they were in the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) earlier. While Rao was the BRS MLA from the Malkajgiri seat, Reddy represents the constituency in the Lok Sabha. Hanumantha Rao was given a ticket from the BRS for the 2023 polls, but he was not happy. Before the partys list was out, a video had surfaced in which Rao was heard saying that he would quit the BRS if his son Rohith was not given a ticket from the Medak constituency. He had even levelled corruption charges against health minister T Harish Rao and said that the latter was responsible for the poor development in Medak. The ministers supporters were reportedly surprised when Hanumantha Rao was given a BRS ticket despite his remarks. The MLA finally announced his resignation from the pink party, alleging that there was no democracy or transparency in its functioning. Stating that the first candidate list would be out soon, Revanth Reddy said on Wednesday: List will be out after approval from the Central Election Committee. At the first level, Pradesh Congress Committees make the list. Its then scrutinised by the screening committee. After that, its approved by CEC. We consider the opinions of various sections in our party. When asked to respond to the oppositions repeated allegation that the six guarantees announced by the Congress are not monetarily feasible, he said: Instead of taking 30 per cent commission out of every government project like the BRS does, we will use that money for our welfare schemes. He added that, according to his partys surveys, the BRS is going to win only 25 seats and the BJP and AIMIM will bag seats in single digits. In its Udaipur Declaration in 2022, the party had said: If another member in ones family is politically active, then only after five years of organizational experience that person should be considered eligible for Congress ticket. The tepid response of Congress president Mallakarjun Kharge and the fierce one by its Punjab leaders after the arrest of MLA Sukhpal Khaira in an old drugs case captures the dilemma that has hit the party over its alliance with the states ruling AAP as part of the INDIA front. The Congress was forced to support the Aam Aadmi Party over the Delhi services bill when other alliance partners convinced the grand old party to forego its wariness of AAP for the sake of the larger goal of defeating the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. But despite the bonhomie when both Raghav Chadha and Arvind Kejriwal thanked Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge for supporting them over the Delhi bill and Chadhas disqualification, the simmering discontent and mistrust remained. At an internal meeting, many Punjab leaders had warned Rahul Gandhi that AAP could not be trusted. They are like snakes, they will bite us, they said. And when Arvind Kejriwal campaigned in poll-bound Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, which are seeing a straight fight between the BJP and Congress, the leaders turned around and said to the top leadership, We told you so. With Khairas arrest, these naysayers stand vindicated. As the news came in, not just Khaira, but most Punjab Congress leaders like Amrinder Singh Raja Warring and Pratap Bajwa unleashed their wrath, accusing the Bhagwant Mann government of misusing the law and state machinery to decimate and demoralise their cadre in the state. Notably, not many in the central leadership spoke equally strongly. And when they did, the response was tepid in comparison. Like Congress president Kharge said, We will have to study the case. Injustice can not be tolerated. This exposes the partys coalition compulsions, say observers. In a similar situation, when any TMC, DMK, or Congress leader faces the law, the opposition accuses the BJP of misusing agencies and political vendetta. Here, most opposition parties have remained silent. Not just this, even as the CBI is probing alleged irregularities in the residential accommodation of Delhi CM Kejriwal, one hasnt seen Congress leaders hit out at AAP or the party convener. Its these contradictory stands and dilemmas that expose the chinks in the armour of opposition unity. And it gives ammunition to the BJP to tell voters that the opposition unity is a mirage. The Congress can merely look on, with its hand tied. The arrest of Bholath MLA Sukhpal Khaira by the Bhagwant Mann government in an alleged drug case has deepened the fissures between the INDIA bloc constituents Congress and Aam Aadmi Party in Punjab. The Congress state unit has pressed the alarm bells, urging the high command to detach itself from any tie-up for the Lok Sabha polls. The state unit fears more arrests of its other leaders and has urged the partys top brass to exert pressure on the AAP leadership. Six former Congress MLAs have been arrested by the Vigilance Bureau, including Soni, Bharat Bhushan Ashu, and Sadhu Singh Dharamsot, and former MLAs Kikki Dhillon, Satkar Kaur, and Joginder Pal. Another five leaders, including former CM Chararnjit Singh Channi and former minister Brahm Mohindra are facing probes in disproportionate assets cases. Worse for the party, CM Mann recently indicated a probe against Amrinder Raja Warring into the state transport buses body fabrication case when the state Congress chief was the transport minister in the previous government. Warring has challenged Mann for a probe in the case and trashed allegations of wrongdoing. Former Deputy CM Sukhjinder Randhawa said arresting an MLA for political extortion was highly reprehensible. In a democracy, there is freedom of speech. But the police are being used to intimidate the Opposition. The CM should leave politics of revenge and focus on Punjab issues, said Randhawa. PPCC chief Warring, who has been regularly maintaining that no discussion on seat-sharing in Punjab has taken place and the party would go solo in the Lok Sabha polls, said it was a ploy by AAP to divert attention from real issues. We will fight back and take Sukhpal Khairas case to its logical conclusion, he said. The state party leadership has informed the high command about the action against its Bholath MLA. We had already alerted the party high command about the intent of AAP in Punjab, Warring said. Leader of the opposition Partap Singh Bajwa, who has been strongly opposing any alliance with AAP, said Khaira is the chairman of the national wing of the Kisan Congress and arresting an MLA smacked of political witch-hunting. Apple has been assembling iPhones in India for quite some time now, since iPhone 6S in 2015. But this year its special with the iPhone 15 series. Apple is selling only Assembled in India" iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus models in India from the first day of sale. Usually, Assembled in China" iPhones were sold in India during the initial months and it was only after a few months that Assembled in India" models took over the market. But this time, its very clear its either India or China from day one itself. And Apple is secretly writing it in the new iPhone 15 models as well. While the iPhone 15 series comes with the new USB Type-C port, if you look closely inside, you will find either India or China engraved. You really need to pay attention under ample light to see it. Apple has always been clear about the source country, but this time, the location of the engraving has made this topic trend on social media. [If you are buying the iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max, you will see China" engraved inside the USB Type-C port.] The thing is very simple, Apple is only assembling the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus in India. Not the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Both the iPhone 15 Pro models are still assembled in China. So, if you buy the iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Plus, you see India" engraved inside the opening of the USB Type-C port. And if you are buying the iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max, you will see China". WATCH VIDEO: iPhone 15 Plus first look Apple is assembling the iPhone 15 at Foxconns manufacturing plant near Chennai. There are no plans as such to assemble the iPhone 15 Pro models in India. But rest assured, the prices will continue to remain the same. The cost of the latest iPhones are always the highest in India after local taxes and even with the iPhone 15 series, nothing much has changed on the pricing front. However, this year it may not make much sense for Indians to buy the iPhone 15 series from the US or UAE. Why? Well, the US models are eSIM only and the price difference doesnt serve enough ROI to get from Dubai or other regions. Relaxed norms around the production and consumption of marijuana in several countries not just make it easy for humans to have access to weed. But it is also leading to the accidental consumption of cannabis by pets. Just like this herd of sheep in Greece who reportedly ate about 100 kg of marijuana inside a greenhouse. According to a Newsweek report, sheep were seeking shelter amidst the deadly storm that recently hit Turkey, Libya, Greece, and Bulgaria. The incident occurred near the town of Almyros in Thessaly. Notably, the greenhouse was cultivating therapeutic marijuana and the hungry sheep apparently mistook it for grass. It was the shepherd who observed the flock showing strange behaviour. If the report is to be believed, the animals were jumping higher than the goats. The farmland owner also vented out his frustration during an interaction with the website TheNewspaper.gr. It is suggested the owner initially lost his cultivated crops to a heatwave followed by the deadly Storm Daniel. Now, the flock consuming the cannabis has only made matters worse for him. I dont know if its for laughing or crying. We had the heatwave and we lost a lot of production. We had the floods, we lost almost everything. And now this. The herd entered the greenhouse and ate what was left. I dont know what to say, honestly, he reportedly said. The extent of any injuries or toxic reactions suffered by the sheep has not been reported so far. Moreover, how the situation was brought under control also remains unclear. Notably, Storm Daniel is regarded to be the most intense storm that occurred since 1930. It swept through Thessaly for three days, killing about 16 people, as per Reuters. Storm Daniel flooded multiple cities and villages, making the affected areas look like an inland sea. Hundreds of civilians were airlifted and pulled out of their flooded homes with the help of lifeboats when the calamity struck. The damage caused to the crops remains unpaid. Reports of multiple livestock drowning have also come to the fore. The civilians whose livelihoods were hampered have reportedly sought shelter at their relatives residences or are renting accommodation in unaffected parts of the region. An unruly woman disrupted the performance of a busker, broke his instrument and stole money from his tip jar on a footpath in Georgia, US. The video of the incident was originally posted on the TikTok page of the street performer Andrew Shoe. Since then, the short clip has spread across social media platforms leaving many furious. This is one of the worst things somebodys probably ever done to me while street performing, the busker expresses in the viral video. He can be seen playing Billy Joels Piano Man when a woman in an all-black ensemble rudely places her hand on his musical instrument. Onlookers enjoying the set encouraged the busker to ignore the woman and, Keep going. Everything appeared to be going smoothly until the woman returned. So this kind of stuff happens here and there so I usually just keep playing through it but after what happened I had to stop, noted the musician. It was his last song of the night when the woman disturbed him again and this time she wrecked his piano by slamming it on the ground. The busker tried striking up a conversation with the disrupter and she reached for the tip jar to steal his money. The musician attempted to stop the woman as the crowd booed her. She then tried provoking the busker, taunting he couldnt do anything about it. Onlookers quickly jumped in to lend support to the busker. One man gave him the money while two women lifted the piano from the ground. Shout out to the guy that took me after and all the people and helped out after seeing what happened. It really restores my faith in humanity, said the musician while concluding the video. Take a look at it here: A female youth wrecks a street performer's keyboard and then takes his money. If that wasn't enough, she taunts him because he can't do anything about it. How is any of this even acceptable? pic.twitter.com/V4Cyf8YHpN Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) September 25, 2023 A barrage of fumed social media users condemned the womans rude antics. A user commented, This is wicked and unacceptable behaviour! What a terrible person! This is wicked and unacceptable behavior! What a terrible person! Laura Mcdowell (@LauraMc58166200) September 26, 2023 Another agreed, Enough is enough. Every act should be followed by the appropriate consequences. Punishment is needed. Enough is enough. Every act should be followed by the appropriate consequences. Punishment is needed. Grand Inquisitor Cicero (@TheGreekGod11) September 25, 2023 One more highlighted, This is actually a crime. She is stealing and damaging your property. This is actually a crime. She is stealing and damaging to your property. GODCANDLE (@godcandlepump) September 26, 2023 Then there were those who appreciated the bystanders for lending support to the street performer. A user said, Shout out to those who helped him afterwards, especially the dude who gave him money. Shout out to those who helped him afterward, especially the dude who gave him money. History vs Hollywood (@HistoryvsHllywd) September 26, 2023 Another wrote, Really good to see all those people step up for this guy though. Really good to see all those people step up for this guy though Craig Travis (@CraigTravissimo) September 26, 2023 The clip has amassed over 12.7 million views on X. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has apologised for Parliaments recognition of a man who fought alongside the Nazis during an address by Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trudeau said the speaker of the House of Commons, who resigned Tuesday, was solely responsible for the invitation and recognition of the man but said it was a mistake that has deeply embarrassed Parliament and Canada. After the Ukrainian President delivered an address in the House of Commons on Friday, Canadian lawmakers gave 98-year-old Yaroslav Hunka a standing ovation when Speaker Anthony Rota drew attention to him. Hunka was introduced as a war hero who fought for the First Ukrainian Division. However, experts began to publicise that the First Ukrainian Division also was known as the Waffen-SS Galicia Division, or the SS 14th Waffen Division, a voluntary unit that was under the command of the Nazis. All of us who were in the House on Friday regret deeply having stood and clapped, even though we did so unaware of the context, Trudeau said Wednesday before he entered the House of Commons, according to The Associated Press. It was a horrendous violation of the memory of the millions of people who died in the Holocaust, and was deeply, deeply painful for Jewish people. It is extremely troubling to think that this egregious error is being politicized by Russia, and its supporters, to provide false propaganda about what Ukraine is fighting for, Trudeau said. Earlier this week, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that the standing ovation for Hunka was outrageous, and he called it the result of a sloppy attitude toward remembering the Nazi regime. Russian President Vladimir Putin has painted his enemies in Ukraine as neo-Nazis, although Zelenskyy is Jewish and lost relatives in the Holocaust. After severe backlash, Speaker of the House Anthony Rota stepped down on Tuesday after meeting with the House of Commons party leaders. House government leader Karina Gould said that Rota invited and recognized Hunka without informing the government or the delegation from Ukraine, and that his lack of due diligence had broken the trust of lawmakers. On Sunday, Rota said he alone was responsible for inviting and recognizing Hunka, who is from the district that Rota represents. The speakers office said it was Hunkas son who contacted Rotas local office to see if it was possible if he could attend Zelenskyys speech. The Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies has called the incident a stain on our countrys venerable legislature with profound implications both in Canada and globally. (With agency inputs) China and Saudi Arabia will hold their second-ever joint naval drills next month, Beijings defence ministry announced Thursday, as China forges deeper ties with the Middle Eastern power. The drills, dubbed Blue Sword 2023, will take place in Chinas southern province of Guangdong in October, Beijing said. This joint training focuses on overseas maritime counter-terrorism operations, conducting exercises on sniper tactics, boat driving, helicopter landing, and joint rescue, defence ministry spokesperson Wu Qian told a press briefing. The two countries previously held joint naval drills in 2019, according to the official Saudi Press Agency. They are aiming to deepen practical and friendly cooperation between the two militaries and improve the level of practical training for the troops, Wu said. The exercises come as Beijing forges deeper ties with Riyadh and plays peacemaker in the Middle East. This year, China brokered a deal that saw longtime regional rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran agree to restore ties and reopen their respective embassies. In Moldova, missile fragments were found in a lake near the village of Firledeni. Law enforcement agencies and sappers are currently examining the wreckage. ADVERTISIMENT The news is supplemented by... Indian-American presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy has proposed to end the birthright citizenship for children of illegal immigrants in the US. He expressed his radical policy during the second Republican primary at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California on Wednesday. Answering a question about the legal premise to expel undocumented immigrants and their American-born children from the country, Ramaswamy backed a 2015 proposal of ending birthright citizenship from then-candidate Donald Trump. The 38-year-old political outsider, who is the son of Indian immigrants, said children of undocumented immigrants born in the United States should not be granted citizenship, because their parents broke the law to be in the country. The Ohio businessman also backed his opponents onstage and acknowledged other measures such as militarisation of the southern border, defunding sanctuary cities, and an end to foreign aid to Mexico and Central America. He said he would go a step further by ending birthright citizenship for the kids of illegal immigrants in this country. BREAKING: Vivek Ramaswamy calls for the end of birthright citizenship for kids who were born in the US with parents who illegally entered the country.Wow I favor ending birthright citizenship for the kids of illegal immigrants in this country. Now, the left will howl pic.twitter.com/ztFJT2kuws Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) September 28, 2023 Earlier, Ramaswamy had criticised the 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. 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. Ramaswamy has grabbed eyeballs after his maiden Republican debate last month. His radical policy proposals have helped him stand out in the crowded primary field, according to US polls. At the debate stage on Wednesday, the youngest GOP Presidential candidate faced criticism from his fellow Republicans. South Carolina Senator Tim Scott accused the Indian American tech billionaire of being in business with the Chinese Communist Party. Nonsense, Ramaswamy interjected angrily. When we have the conversation about the things that are happening on this stage, we think about the fact that Vivek just said that we were all good people, and I appreciate that because last debate he said we were all bought and paid for, Scott said. You know, I cant imagine how you could say that knowing that you were just in business with the Chinese Communist Party and the same people that funded Hunter Biden millions of dollars was a partner of yours as well, he said. Former UN ambassador Nikki Haley went after the political newcomer for inexperience, terming Ramaswamys policy proposals as dangerous ideas. Every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber for what you say, Haley said. We cant trust you. Ramaswamy responded by saying I think we would be better served as a Republican Party if were not sitting here hurling personal insults. (With agency inputs) Since 1901, Nobel prizes have been awarded to men, women and organisations for work that has led to great advances for mankind, in line with the wishes of inventor Alfred Nobel. The winners of this years prizes will be announced daily from Monday, October 2 through October 9. Here are five things to know about the prizes and their creator. In absentia Since 1901, six Nobel peace laureates have been prevented from attending the prize ceremony in Oslo. In 1936, German journalist and pacifist Carl Von Ossietzky was detained in a Nazi concentration camp. In 1975, Soviet leaders refused to allow Russian dissident Andrei Sakharov to travel to Oslo to pick up his prize. He was represented by his wife Yelena Bonner. In 1983, Polish union leader Lech Walesa declined the invitation to come to Oslo for fear he would not be allowed back into Poland. In 1991, Myanmar opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi was under house arrest when she won the prize. Given permission by the junta to travel, she also declined for a fear of not being able to return to her country. In 2010, Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo was in prison. His chair remained empty, where the prize was placed. In 2022, Belarusian human rights campaigner Ales Bialiatski was in prison. He was represented by his wife Natalia Pinchuk. Posthumous awards Since 1974, the statutes of the Nobel Foundation stipulate that the prize may not be given posthumously. But a person may be awarded if she or he dies between the time of the announcement in October and the formal prize ceremony in December. Before the change, only two people had won a Nobel posthumously. One was Dag Hammarskjold, the Swedish secretary general of the United Nations who died in a plane crash in 1961 but was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize later the same year. And in 1931, the Nobel Literature Prize was awarded posthumously to another Swede, Erik Axel Karlfeldt. In 2011, the Medicine Prize committee selected Ralph Steinman of Canada, unaware that he had passed away just three days before the prize announcement. Nevertheless, the foundation decided to give him the award. Few female laureates While female representation among winners has been steadily increasing in the last decades compared to the early years, the 60 women Nobel laureates still account for around just six percent of winners. But things are getting better. Since 2000, 31 women have been awarded all prizes combined, almost three times as many as in the previous two decades. In 2009, five women received a Nobel prize, including the first female laureate in economics, American Elinor Ostrom a record yet to be equalled. Economics has had the fewest women laureates at 2.2 percent, lower than the science prizes combined, which have seen 3.7 percent women laureates. While slightly more evenly distributed, literature is still largely a male affair with 14.2 percent women among laureates, with the peace prize faring slightly better at 16 percent. The Nobel is an institution for men, 2022 literature laureate Annie Ernaux of France told AFP. Nevertheless, the first person to win the Nobel prize twice was Marie Curie, in 1903 in physics and in 1911 in chemistry. Missing mathematics There has long been debate over why no prize was created for mathematics. There were longstanding rumours that it was in part because Alfred Nobels lover had an affair with mathematician Gosta Mittag-Leffler but in the 1980s, researchers were able to put that theory to rest. So why is there no prize? There are two likely explanations. In 1895, when Nobel wrote his will, a maths prize already existed in Sweden and he saw no need for a second one. And at the beginning of the 20th century, the applied sciences were in public and scientific favour. The contribution of mathematics to humanity was not as obvious as it is today. Lavish prize ceremonies The prizes are announced in early October, but the award ceremonies take place in Oslo and Stockholm every year on December 10, the anniversary of the 1896 death of prize creator and inventor Alfred Nobel. In Stockholm where the laureates for medicine, physics, chemistry, literature and economics are honoured the prize ceremony is followed by a glitzy banquet at City Hall for around 1,300 guests, including King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia, the diplomatic corps, academics and business leaders. Meanwhile, in Oslo, around 1,000 guests, including King Harald and Queen Sonja, diplomats and celebrities, attend the prize ceremony at City Hall followed by a smaller banquet at the Grand Hotel. Russias ambassador has been barred from the Stockholm ceremony since 2022 due to the war in Ukraine. Norways Nobel Institute has meanwhile maintained its policy of inviting all ambassadors. Is the killing of Khalistan sympathiser Hardeep Singh Nijjar being used by the Justin Trudeau government to gain sympathy and increase support base in Canada? In exclusive information, CNN-News18 has learnt that Liberal MP Sukh Dhaliwal, who has been training guns on India over Nijjars killing, has been rewarded for polishing Trudeaus ratings by appointing him as chairman of the Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration. According to sources, the reward has come for Nijjar for his mass Sikh support base and proximity to Pakistans ISI. Sources say Dhaliwal visited Pakistan approximately four months back and was accorded a grand welcome, with his posters adorning every wall in the country. It is here that the conspiracy was hatched to give a fillip to the diminishing rankings of both Dhaliwal and Trudeau. Dhaliwal floated the idea to Trudeau when he returned from Pakistan, they added, and they decided to use Nijjars death to gain the sympathy of Khalistanis. Born in Sujapur village, Ludhiana, Dhaliwal studied civil engineering from Guru Nanak Dev Engineering College and was one of the 16 Indo-Canadian Punjabis who won the Canadian elections in 2021. This is not the first time Dhaliwals name has emerged in connection with his anti-India stance. In 2010, Liberal MPs Dhaliwal and Andrew Kania introduced a petition in the House of Commons asking Ottawa to consider the 1984 Sikh riots in India as an act of genocide. In the latest Nijjar row, which has escalated into a diplomatic confrontation between India and Canada, Dhaliwal has been vocal in his criticism of India. Revealing his experience in Parliament this month, he said he was refused an Indian visa for speaking out against what he called excesses against Sikhs in India, which he went on to describe a so-called democracy. In light of this, he called on lawmakers from across Canadas political spectrum, including Conservatives, Liberals, and the NDP, to denounce what he claims is Indian governments intimidation. He was supported by NDPs Jagmeet Singh who said India denied him a visa in 2013 when he was a member of Ontarios provincial legislature. Singh added that the Indian government appeared dissatisfied with his attempts to obtain justice for the victims of the November 1984 anti-Sikh riots. No matter the distance or the weather, Jane Christensen was determined to see the giant pandas before they left Washington. Now in her 60s, Christensen told AFP she had been captured by the species magical cuteness over a half-century ago, when China first gifted two pandas to the United States. Ive had panda-monium ever since, she said under a chilly rain outside the Smithsonian National Zoos panda exhibit hundreds of miles from her home in Michigan. All three of the zoos pandas are leaving for China by the end of the year, bringing at least a temporary end to a decades-old connection between the cuddly animal and the US capital. The zoo has kicked off a week-long Panda Palooza event ahead of the departure, welcoming thousands of fans, many outfitted in panda-themed hats and shirts. And while the pandas departure had been expected due to contractual obligations, many cant help but see the shift as reflective of the growing strains between Beijing and Washington. The first black-and-white furballs arrived from China in 1972, as a gift following then-president Richard Nixons historic visit to the Communist-led nation. Recognizing the species uncanny ability to attract fans and a potential source of income for its conservation program China continued to loan out pandas to Washington and other zoos around the world, since dubbed Panda Diplomacy. At the Smithsonian zoo, millions of dollars have been spent on the pandas enclosure and studies, especially related to breeding, including a popular 24-hour Panda Cam to monitor their behavior and health. Weve been watching on the live cam every day leading up to this point, said Heidi Greco, who traveled hours by car from Ohio with her family. Her daughter Stormy, who had on a panda hat and carried a just-bought panda umbrella, is obsessed with pandas, Greco said. The family had watched the pandas make some laps around their separate outdoor enclosures, then passed through an indoor viewing area where visitors can watch the animals eat snacks and bamboo up close. When I heard that these pandas were leaving, and the Atlanta Zoo pandas were leaving, and there would be no panda bears left in all of North America (except) one very old one in Mexico, I was really, really upset, said Greco. Zoo Atlanta, in the southern US state of Georgia, will send its four pandas to China by late 2024. Soft power Pandas Mei Xiang and Tian Tian arrived in Washington in 2000, and have since had four surviving cubs. Xiao Qi Ji (Little Miracle in English) was born in 2020 and will also depart by December. During Xi Jinpings state visit in 2015, the last by a Chinese leader to the United States, his wife and the US first lady held an official ceremony to unveil the name of panda cub Bei Bei. Eight years later, with mounting tensions over Taiwan and continuing trade disputes between the two powers, the panda exhibit is about to be closed. The Chinese government tends to bestow pandas on nations with whom Chinas relations are on the upswing, as a form of soft power projection, said Kurt Tong, a former high-ranking US diplomat and managing partner of the Asia Group consultancy. In that respect, given the current tenor of US-China relations it is not surprising that Chinese authorities are allowing panda contracts with US zoos to expire, Tong said in an email to AFP. He noted that the loans also help China augment the panda conservation budget. The Smithsonian pays $500,000 annually to its Chinese conservation group partner, the zoo said. The pandas departure closes a major chapter of an international animal care and conservation success story, the zoo said in a statement, adding that it remains committed to continuing its efforts to secure and safeguard a healthy future for giant pandas. One attendee saying her goodbyes at the zoo highlighted successful efforts to grow the wild population of pandas. Weve come a long way in getting the numbers back up, said Michaela from Maryland, who had her face painted like a panda. The species remains listed as vulnerable. As the rain let up, a steady stream of visitors began filling the area around the pandas outdoor enclosure. Known for being a bit sluggish, the panda made repeated laps around the acre-sized plot, climbing up and down the hills making sure everyone got one good, final snapshot. The Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has recognized that the war started by Russia in Ukraine has "directly affected" this country. They said that a full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine poses a risk to the people of Romania as well. ADVERTISIMENT This was stated by Romanian Foreign Minister Luminica Odobescu, speaking at the conference "Winning the War. Winning the War. Winning the Peace" conference on Wednesday, September 27, as quoted by the Voice of America. "This is very serious, and it poses a risk to our citizens," Odobescu said. This is how the minister commented on the wreckage of Russian drones found on the territory of Romania, which the occupiers used to attack settlements bordering this country in Odesa region. Odobescu emphasized that this is a violation of the state's airspace. She acknowledged that the security situation in the region is deteriorating, and that what the aggressor country Russia has been doing recently is outrageous. The minister also recalled Russia's threats to commercial shipping in the Black Sea and security in the region. ADVERTISIMENT Earlier it was reported that during the occupiers' attack on the port infrastructure of Izmail on the night of September 26, drones hit the ferry crossing between Ukraine and Romania. On September 13, drone debris was also found in Romania after a nighttime Russian attack on Odesa region. They were scattered in a square near the towns of Nuferu and Victoria in Tulcea County. On September 10, the Romanian Foreign Ministry announced that it had summoned the Russian Charge d'Affaires after another drone wreckage fell. Fragments of the drone were found near the Romanian village of Plaura on September 9. As OBOZREVATEL previously reported, Russia used the airspace of Romania and Moldova during missile and drone attacks on Ukraine. The territory of these countries served as a cover for the enemy, as Ukrainian air defense could not destroy enemy air targets there. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Farmers should be able to use their livestock as collateral for bank loans from this coming summer cropping season under new arrangements now being organised by the Government. This would in addition to the 99 year land leases, Permanent Secretary for Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, Climate and Rural Development Dr John Basera told a Star FM radio programme Muriro on Monday. We have not lost hope or we have not lost it outright. We are finalising the bankability of 99 year leases so we have some financial institutions, for example AFC, accepting 99 year leases, All the same we are in conversation with Bankers Association of Zimbabwe, Law Society of Zimbabwe and other institutions so that we make sure that our 99 year leases are bankable or are acceptable by the majority of the banks. We are almost finalising the same. The question of whole Government approach we are working with different and several Ministries and departments, Attorney Generals Office, Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs and of Finance and Investment Promotion so that we see to it that our 99 year leases are acceptable to most of the banks in the country, said Dr Basera. However as an interim measure I am sure you are aware that there was a big pronouncement to have livestock as bankable and collateral. We are finalising the same. We are in conversation with RBZ so that we see to it that this season livestock can be bankable. At the moment livestock is only used for beef and also used to pay lobola and kuripa. But it is not bankable yet. It is a biological asset which we need to tap into so that we can create a collateral out of it. So imagine we have a national herd of 5,6million cattle in the country maybe at an estimated value of US$400 per beast that is almost US$2 billion to US$3 billion. So we are finalising the bankability of livestock so that they can be used as collateral. The RBZ launched an online collateral registry for movable property with appropriate regulations in a bid to promote access to credit. The collateral registry, a record keeping system for the existence of security, is a publicly available database of interests or ownership of movable assets, and enables borrowers to prove their creditworthiness and potential lenders to determine a borrowers credit suitability measured against their collateral. Chronicle OPPOSITION Labour, Economists and African Democrats (LEAD) party leader Linda Masarira torched a stormed this week during a meeting to promote post-election peace after sensationally accusing Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party activists of receiving insurgency training in Zambia ahead of the August 23 polls. She claimed CCC deputy spokesperson Gift Siziba and Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition spokesperson Obert Masaraure were some of the people who went to Zambia for insurgency training. The meeting which was organised by Heal Zimbabwe Trust and intended to foster open dialogue and promote unity among various political parties and civil society organisations, degenerated into chaos as tempers flared after Masariras accusations. There shall come a time when some comrades who are part of the panel will have to show their passports that they did not attend training in Zambia. I still maintain they were trained for insurgency in Zambia, Masarira said. University of Zimbabwe lecturer Pedzisai Ruhanya who was facilitating the meeting attempted to restore order by encouraging a return to meaningful dialogue, but failed. Siziba and Masaraure vehemently denied any involvement in insurgency training or any unlawful activities. Several lives were lost because people sold out the struggle because of trinkets from the regime. It is not new, even in the days of the liberation struggle there was someone who was known as Morrison Nyathi who sold out. When you sell your soul to the devil, the first thing that departs is common sense, Siziba said. Sadly, when you are given trinkets, your masters want to see you doing things, even lies and hallucinations. There is no way I have been trained outside the country. Masaraure said there was nothing wrong with attending meetings outside the country. At any given time, there are conferences taking place across the globe. Sadly, one of our comrades has sold out the struggle. We used to fundraise and donate to her when she pretended that things were not well only to realise that she was hopping from one bar to another, he said. Siziba said there was conflation of the ruling Zanu PF and the State. There is party-State conflation in Zimbabwe. I was abducted and tortured at Zanu PF headquarters in 2016. After the ordeal, I was handed over to the police where I was detained at Chikurubi Prison and was also denied bail, he said. Masarira said Zimbabwe had for too long enjoyed artificial peace which is not sustainable and was plagued by polarisation. We need dialogue that is inclusive. The dialogue that every section of the people contributes to, even those in rural areas, he said. Advocate Wilbert Mandinde accused the police of selective application of the law. Newsday ZIMBABWEANS should not be distracted by individuals who are stuck in the past as elections are now behind us with calls for a rerun of the polls by opposition CCC leader Mr Nelson Chamisa a pipedream, President Mnangagwa has said. This comes as there have been growing calls for Mr Chamisa to graciously accept defeat and stop misleading his supporters about a possible fresh plebiscite as that is not legally and constitutionally possible. Addressing the 372nd Session of the Politburo at the Zanu-PF headquarters in Harare yesterday, President Mnangagwa, who is also the partys First Secretary, said Zimbabweans should move forward and stop listening to daydreamers. Now that the elections are behind us, we should not be distracted by the leader of the main opposition who remains struck in the past while both Zimbabwe and the region are moving into the future. His call for an election re-rerun is a pipe dream, the earlier he realises that, the better for himself and his opposition party, said President Mnangagwa. Already a new Cabinet, that is expected to steer the country into prosperity, has been appointed with focus on the implementation and development of national policies, programmes and projects that improve peoples lives. In the same vein, the President called on the Politburo and the leadership of the party, across all levels, to continue deploying their individual and collective efforts for the successful implementation of people centred programmes and projects. Now that Government is in place, it is my expectation that the party will concertedly work hard to complement Government efforts in the implementation and development of national policies, programmes and projects. In rolling out the party and government programmes under this Second Term of the Second Republic, we remain guided by the philosophy, Nyika inovakwa, inotongwa, inonamatigwa nevene vayo, Ilizwe lakhiwa, libuswe, likhulekelwe ngabanikazi balo, said President Mnangagwa. In addition, he said, efforts to consolidate national and household food security, unity, peace, love and harmony should continue to take root across the countrys 10 provinces. President Mnangagwa commended the local business community for embracing and showing their eagerness to work with the Government in advancing the national vision. Earlier this week, I met the leadership of the business community who expressed commitment to work with the Second Republic in advancing our national vision. Our party remains determined to ensure an enabling environment in which the private sector and our micro, small and medium scale enterprises drive sustainable socio-economic development, he said. President Mnangagwa also commended the increase in shelf occupancy of locally manufactured goods, a development which is set to continue bolstering Zimbabwes comparative, competitive and adaptability advantages to move the economy up the value chains. Further, we take pride that locally manufactured goods and products are occupying the majority of shelf space in shops across the country. Brick by brick, stone upon stone, sector by sector and product by product, we are modernising and industrialising our mother country Zimbabwe, he said. Meanwhile, the country continues to witness increases in investments, exports, production and capacity utilisation, which have all contributed invaluably towards the countrys economic growth trajectory. Under Zanu-PF, Zimbabwe is open for business. To this end, we continue to welcome investors, including our citizens in the diaspora, to take up the various opportunities, which Zimbabwe has to offer, President Mnangagwa said. He emphasised the need to scale up preparations for the forthcoming 20th National Peoples Conference and the 2023/2024 Summer Cropping and Agriculture Season. The President said the engagement and re-engagement drive is equally bearing fruit, with a number of strategic investments and partnerships having been discussed on the sidelines of the 78th United Nations General Assembly which the President recently attended in New York. During the General Assembly, we received support and solidarity in our call for the immediate and unconditional lifting of illegal sanctions. In this regard, we are grateful to progressive nations and institutions of the world, including our comrades from the Southern African region, who called for the removal of the illegal sanctions, said President Mnangagwa. In keeping with requirements of the party Constitution, Zanu PF will be holding its Central Committee meeting tomorrow. Herald DUBLIN. A doctor breaking down, the Health Service Executive issuing an apology and nurses raising concern over the drop in blood pressure. It has been a mixed bag of emotions at the inquest of the death of a 35-year-old Zimbabwean, Tatenda Mukwata, who died soon after giving birth at the University Hospital Kerry last year. She died at 2am on April 21, 2022, after giving birth six hours earlier to her fourth daughter, Eva, who was delivered by Caesarean section. Tatenda had been HIV positive since 2009, and she would attend an HIV specialist in CUH and always took her medication. A pathologist told the opening day of the inquest in August that Tatenda had died of haemorrhage and shock. In its apology at the outset of the resumed inquest on Monday, HSE senior counsel John Lucey read an apology signed by Mary Fitzgerald, general manager of UHK, for the failings of care afforded to Tatenda at this hospital on 20th and 21st April, 2022. We fully accept that these failings should not have happened, and that earlier intervention would probably have prevented Tatendas death. An external review of the matter is nearing completion and as a hospital we will endeavour to ensure lessons are learned. We are deeply sorry that you have suffered the tragic loss of Tatenda. We wish to apologise to you unreservedly and offer our heartfelt condolences. We acknowledge the grief, stress, trauma, and suffering that you and your family continue to endure as a result of Tatendas death, for which we are truly sorry. A South African obstetrician gynaecologist who had been working in Ireland for just three months at the time Tatenda died, broke down at her inquest on Tuesday, asking if he could meet her family. Dr Fahad Hendricks was assigned to the high-risk ante-natal clinic and was working his third 24-hour shift in less than a week on April 20. At 17.30 he went to meet Tatenda, with whom he had a good rapport. He was excited to see her as both were from Southern Africa, Dr Hendricks said, breaking down and pausing in reading his deposition. Tatendas Caesarian had been uncomplicated and there was normal blood loss and no haemorrhage. At 22.55, paged by concerned nurses, he noticed her low pallor and suspected septic shock. He had thought there might be a surgical bleed but found no evidence and nothing to indicate it. The wound dressing was clean, there was no v*****l bleeding and the uterus was contracting. I trained in South Africa, 30 percent of women in ante-natal clinics are HIV positive, immuno-suppressed, he said. He was not aware of the drop in haemoglobin. In all honesty, I did not check, Hendricks replied to Dr John OMahony, SC, for the Mukwata family. But had he been aware of the drop, he probably would have repeated the blood sample, and his suspicion of intra-abdominal bleeding strengthened and he would probably have taken steps to have her taken to theatre for operation, he told the inquest. There were emotional scenes as Dr Hendricks asked to meet the family of Tatenda and he was crying and being comforted at the back of the courtroom as the jury left for their lunch break. The third day of Tatendas inquest heard that staff at UHK had carried out four C-sections on the night she died, in a challenging shift for nurses and clinicians. Irish Times/Irish Examiner. Tens of thousands of Las Vegas hospitality workers fighting for new union contracts voted Tuesday to authorize a strike that could impact more than three dozen casinos and hotels. As the AP reports, the Culinary Workers Union hasn't gone on strike in more than three decades. The union didn't immediately set a deadline for a walkout as it continues bargaining for better pay, benefits, and working conditions with the top casino employers on the Las Vegas Strip, including MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, and Wynn Resorts. The Culinary Union is Nevada's largest labor union, representing about 60,000 hospitality workers statewide. Contracts for 40,000 of those members recently expired. "We are the glue that keeps these hotels together, and we should be paid what we deserve," Deanna Virgil, a longtime employee at Wynn Las Vegas, said after casting her vote. Virgil was among 53,000 housekeepers, cocktail and food servers, porters, cooks, bartenders, and other hotel employees in Las Vegas eligible to participate in the vote. The union is scheduled to return to the bargaining table next week with MGM Resorts, Caesars, and Wynn Resorts. In a statement Tuesday, MGM Resorts said it has a decades-long history of successfully bargaining with the union and believes that "both parties are committed to negotiating a contract that is good for everyone." Caesars did not respond to requests for comment, and Wynn Resorts had no comment. Virgil, who has worked in the hospitality sector for 38 years, said she is able to make do with her current salary and benefits because she lives with her adult daughter. "There are a lot of us who have two jobs," Virgil says, "but one job should be enough." story continues below Bethany Khan, the union's rep, said all members receive health insurance and currently earn about $26 hourly, including benefits. Khan declined to say how much the union is seeking in pay raises because "we do not negotiate in public," although the union has said it is asking for "the largest wage increases ever negotiated" in its history. In 1991, more than 500 workers went on strike at the now-shuttered Frontier hotel and casino in downtown Las Vegas. It became one of the longest strikes in US history, stretching more than six years. The union last voted to authorize a strike in 2018. Five-year contracts were reached soon after a majority of the participating 25,000 hospitality workers cast votes to walk off the job. (Read more labor strike stories.) Australian police spent precisely $16,218 to investigate the kidnapping of Paul Iera. Except that there was no kidnapping, just a half-baked plan to free him up on New Year's Eve. Iera, 35, has been ordered by a court to repay that amount to New South Wales police. He received no jail time, per the BBC , but will have to perform 350 hours of community service. The false report charge could have brought him seven years in prison; News.com.au reported that the kidnapping, reported just before New Year's Eve festivities began, sparked a broad and urgent search by special officers. Magistrate Michael Ong was not amused by Iera's crime, calling it "abhorrent," or his reason for committing it. Iera's goal was to spend New Year's Eve with a woman other than his partner. So he sent a text to his partner on Dec. 31 purportedly from his kidnappers, saying that they'd keep Iera "until the morning," per the BBC. After being contacted by Iera's partner, police found him in his hometown of Dapto at 10am Jan. 1, in his van. Iera told police that he'd been taken by unidentified Middle Eastern men, who later released him. Ong told the defendant he was "motivated by the least compelling reason" the magistrate had ever heard. Iera's lawyer told the court his client wants to "move forward with his life as a productive member of the community." In doing that, he said Iera has the support of his family and, still, his partner. (Read more Australia stories.) US District Judge Tanya Chutkan turned down former President Trump's request that she recuse herself from presiding over the federal government's election obstruction prosecution of the former president in Washington, making it clear that she disagreed with his legal team's reasoning. The Trump lawyers' interpretation of two statements she made in sentencing Capitol attack defendants was "hypersensitive, cynical, and suspicious," Chutkan wrote in a 20-page opinion, the Washington Post reports. The statements she made "certainly do not manifest a deep-seated prejudice that would make fair judgment impossible," Chutkan said, per MSNBC . The judge had told a defendant in October that he and others at the Capitol "were there in fealty, in loyalty, to one mannot to the Constitution." She added, "It's a blind loyalty to one person who, by the way, remains free to this day." The defense filing called the judge's meaning "inescapablePresident Trump is free, but should not be." Prosecutors under special counsel Jack Smith argued that Trump's team took the comments out of context and came to an incorrect conclusion. A judge's job in presiding over a trial includes answering arguments and forming opinions based on the facts of a case, they said. Chutkan agreed, per the Post. A reasonable person, Chutkan wrote, would understand that a judge wasn't making pronouncements about another person's guilt in "a hypothetical future case." Defendants face a high bar in arguing for a judge's recusal. (Read more election interference indictment stories.) Yes, the seven GOP candidates on stage are fielding a wide range of questions on policyand talking over each other quite a bitbut an absent Donald Trump is surfacing as a topic, too. Chris Christie, for example, even floated a derisive new nickname for the former president. Speaking into the camera, the former New Jersey governor addressed "Donald" directly: "I know you're watching," he said, because "you can't help yourself." He then accused Trump of being afraid to appear on stage with his GOP rivals to defend his record. If Trump continues to skip the debates, "no one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore," said Christie, per the AP. "We're going to call you Donald Duck." Republican presidential candidates, minus frontrunner former President Trump, debated again on Wednesday nightand as in last month's debate in Milwaukee, Trump is being seen as perhaps the night's biggest winner. "This was another debate where the guy leading by 40 points was not onstage and took only the slightest of blows from those who were onstage," writes Andrew Propkop at Vox. "It was also another debate where there was no clear winnerno breakout star that could be elevated to Trump's main challenger." Verdicts on the candidates who were actually on the stage: Ron DeSantis . The Washington Times puts the Florida governor among the losers, saying: "The man is in second place and not moving. He didn't do anything in this debate to change that calculus. And then there's that awkward forced smile." Liz Peek at Fox News, however, says DeSantis was a winner, "helped by low expectations," who may have cemented his hold on second place with some effective attacks on President Biden. . The Washington Times puts the Florida governor among the losers, saying: "The man is in second place and not moving. He didn't do anything in this debate to change that calculus. And then there's that awkward forced smile." Liz Peek at Fox News, however, says DeSantis was a winner, "helped by low expectations," who may have cemented his hold on second place with some effective attacks on President Biden. Nikki Haley. A winner, according to SE Cupp at CNN. The former UN ambassador and South Carolina governor "was laser-focused on exposing the weaknesses of the candidates who did bother to show upmore so than anyone else on the stage," Cupp writes. She pointedly took on Florid As his Republican rivals sparred onstage in California at their second primary debate , former President Trump was in battleground Michigan on Wednesday night working to win over blue-collar voters by lambasting President Biden and his push for electric cars in the midst of an autoworkers' strike, the AP reports. "I will not allow under any circumstances the American automobile industry to die," Trump said at Drake Enterprises, a non-unionized auto parts supplier in Clinton Township, about a half-hour outside Detroit. While Trump aides had said the audience would include several hundred current and former UAW members, as well as members of plumbers and pipefitters unions, it also included many non-union workers who support the former president. The Republican frontrunner's trip came a day after Biden became the first sitting president in US history to walk a picket line as he joined United Auto Workers in Detroit. The dueling appearances had the feel of the opening salvo of the 2024 general election, which increasingly looks like a rematch between Trump and Biden, even though primary voting won't begin until next year. Trump, in his speech, tried to cast Biden as hostile to the auto industry and workers, using extreme rhetoric to claim the industry was "being assassinated." He insisted Biden's embrace of electric vehiclesa key component of his clean-energy agendawould ultimately lead to lost jobs, amplifying the concerns of some autoworkers who worry that electric cars require fewer people to manufacture and that there is no guarantee factories that produce them will be unionized. "He's selling you out to China, he's selling you out to the environmental extremists and the radical left," Trump told his crowd, flanked by American flags and pallets of auto parts. He also downplayed the strike as the UAW pushes for higher wages, shorter work weeks, and assurances from the country's top automakers that new electric vehicle jobs will be unionized. While Trump said he supported the workers and hoped they would get a good deal, he also said no deal would matter if proposed pollution limits take effect. "You're all on the picket lines and everything, but it doesn't make a damn bit of difference what you get, because in two years you're all going to be out of business," he said. (Read more Donald Trump stories.) The separatist government of Nagorno-Karabakh announced Thursday that it will dissolve itself and the unrecognized republic will cease to exist by the end of the year. Armenian officials said more than half of the population has already fled. Last week, Azerbaijan carried out a lightning offensive to reclaim full control over its breakaway region and demanded that Armenian troops in Nagorno-Karabakh lay down their weapons and the separatist government dissolve itself. A decree to that effect was signed by the region's separatist President Samvel Shakhramanyan, the AP reports. The document cited an agreement reached last week to end the fighting under which Azerbaijan will allow the "free, voluntary, and unhindered movement" of Nagorno-Karabakh residents and disarm troops in Armenia in exchange. The massive exodus began on Sunday evening, and the only road linking Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenia quickly filled up with cars that created an hourslong traffic jam. On Monday night, a fuel reservoir exploded at a gas station where people seeking to leave were lining up for gas that due to the blockade had been in short supply. At least 68 people were killed and nearly 300 injured, with over 100 more still considered missing. By Thursday morning, more than half of Nagorno-Karabakh's population66,500 peoplehad fled to Armenia, and the influx continues with unabating intensity, according to Armenian officials. It isn't immediately clear if any of the ethnic Armenians that have populated the region will remain there. Shakhramayan's decree on Thursday urged Nagorno-Karabakh's populationincluding those who left"to familiarize themselves with the conditions of reintegration offered by the Republic of Azerbaijan" before making a decision about staying or returning. On Thursday, Azerbaijani authorities charged Ruben Vardanyan, the former head of Nagorno-Karabakh's separatist government, with financing terrorism, creating illegal armed formations, and illegally crossing a state border. (Read more Nagorno-Karabakh stories.) UPDATE Sep 28, 2023 11:19 AM CDT Authorities in northern England have arrested a 16-year-old boy who is accused of cutting down a world-famous tree, reports the BBC. The unidentified teen is being held on suspicion of criminal damage over the felling of the tree near Hadrian's Wall, a landmark from the Roman Empire, per the AP. "You can forgive nature doing it, but you can't forgive that," says Alison Hawkins, who was one of the first people to see the damage Thursday morning. Sep 28, 2023 10:15 AM CDT English police are investigating a murder ... of a tree. The beloved Sycamore Gap tree stood in a natural dip between rolling cliffs next to Hadrian's Wall, a former defensive fortification, in Northumberland National Park. The BBC's Mark Denten describes it as "one of the most iconic trees in Britain, and probably the world." Thought to be several hundred years old, the sycamore featured in 1991's Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and was named England's tree of the year in 2016. National Park Authority officials, who found the tree lying next to its sheared stump on Thursday morning, say it was "deliberately felled" sometime overnight. Photos suggest it was brought down with a chainsaw, per the Guardian. In the eyes of most observers, Nikki Haley acquitted herself well Wednesday night for the second GOP debate. Maybe the most telling evidence of that is that the campaign of Donald Trump made a point to go after her with a statement titled "The Real Nikki Haley." Among other things, it attempts to link her to Hillary Clinton by quoting from a 2012 interview Haley gave to the New York Times , in which she said that "the reason I actually ran for office is because of Hillary Clinton," per the Hill . The Trump statement doesn't provide further contextnamely that the full interview makes clear it wasn't Clinton's political views that inspired Haley, but Clinton's wish that more women would enter politics in general. The Trump statement also calls Haley "weak on immigration" and accuses her of wishing to prolong the Russia-Ukraine war with American aid rather than look for a "peaceful solution." It comes as Haley, who served as Trump's ambassador to the UN, has gotten increasingly aggressive on Trump. At Wednesday's debate, for example, she said he wasn't tough enough against China as president, per the AP. "This is where President Trump went wrong," Haley said, accusing Trump of focusing on trade with Beijing while ignoring a host of other issues. Among other things, she accused China of stealing intellectual property and flooding the US with fentanyl. "I guess Donald Trump feels threatened by Nikki Haley," Haley spokesman Ken Farnaso said in a statement, in response to the Trump campaign's attack, per the Hill. Axios and the Hill note that Haley also went after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis at the debate over fracking, had a spirited exchange with Sen. Tim Scottencouraging him to "Bring it, Tim" at one pointover their political bona fides, and memorably told Vivek Ramaswamy that she felt "dumber" after listening to him. "I suspect a lot of Republican women watching that debate tonight were either silently thinking or perhaps even sort of cheering her on, 'Go, Nikki, go,'" Republican strategist Matt Mackowiak tells the Washington Post. "It may be the secret weapon she has." (Read more Nikki Haley 2024 stories.) Updated throughout with new details. A lone gunman wearing a bulletproof vest opened fire in an apartment and a hospital in the Dutch port city of Rotterdam on Thursday, killing three people, including a 14-year-old girl, police said. The shooting sent patients and medics fleeing the Erasmus Medical Center in downtown Rotterdam, including some who were wheeled out of the building in beds, per the AP . Others barricaded themselves into rooms and stuck hand-written signs to windows to show their location. Police Chief Fred Westerbeke told reporters that the shooter was a 32-year-old student from Rotterdam. He was arrested at the hospital carrying a firearm. His identity was not released, and the motive for the shootings was still under investigation. He first shot and killed a 39-year-old woman and seriously injured her 14-year-old daughter at an apartment close to where the suspect lived, said Police Chief Fred Westerbeke. The girl later died of her injuries. The shooter then went to the nearby Erasmus Medical Center where he shot and killed a 46-year-old man, a teacher at the academic hospital, the police chief said. He also started fires at the scenes of both shootings. The identities of the victims were not released. The suspect was cooperating with police, Westerbeke said. "It was a black day," said Rotterdam Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb. Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima expressed their sympathy on social media. "Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the victims of the violence this afternoon in Rotterdam," the royal pair wrote. "We also think of everybody who lived in fear during these terrible actions." Gun violence is rare (though not unheard of) in the country, notes the New York Times. While there have been scores of small explosions and at homes and businesses across Rotterdam this year, blamed on rival drug gangs, there was no immediate suggestion that Thursday's shooting was linked to the gangs. (Read more Rotterdam stories.) 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. Agencies | Manama The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has yesterday performed afternoon prayer at Sakhir Palace mosque, alongside their Highnesses members of the Royal Family, and scholars, marking the anniversary of the Prophets Birthday. A sermon was delivered by Dr. Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed Al Hajeri, the Sunni Endowments Council Chairman, who spoke about the life and virtues of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Dr. Al Hajeri prayed to Allah the Almighty to protect HM the King and bless the Kingdom of Bahrain with security and stability under his wise leadership. He also prayed to Allah the Almighty to protect the members of the Bahrains servicemen in the line of duty, and that he may rest the fallen servicemen in eternal peace. Dr. Al Hajeri expressed his condolences to HM King Hamad following the act of aggression that resulted in the loss of a number of BDF servicemen, who were participating in the Arab Coalition's operations Decisive Storm and Restoring Hope. The attendees also extended to HM the King congratulations on the anniversary of the Prophets birthday. On this occasion, HM King congratulated the attendees on the anniversary of the Prophets birthday and wishing many happy returns to Bahrain and its people, and the Arab and Islamic nations, and to all of humanity with security and peace. HM the King said that the Prophet Mohammeds birthday was an occasion to recount his virtues which inspire honourable values and promote brotherhood, coexistence, tolerance, love, and peace. Muslims emulated the teachings of the Prophet and build upon the foundations that he has established to create develop Arab and Muslim civilisations that took pride in Islam and adherence to the Book of God Almighty and the Sunnah of the Prophet, HM the King said. HM King Hamad emphasised Bahrain's role as a hub for pluralism, cultural convergence, and religious coexistence. The people of Bahrain have historically demonstrated brotherhood, affection, and respect for all religions, rooted in Islamic law and respect for all peoples, HM said. Dr. Al Hajeri presented HM the King with a copy of his book on the mosques of the Kingdom of Bahrain built during the leadership of HM the King. Elnur Enveroglu We are in Konya with the special support of the Turkish Ministry of Culture and, the capital of the ancient Seljuk state, the land of Maulana Jalaluddin Rumi and many other divines, friends of Allah the country that raises the flag of Islam on its soil. This city, which has preserved its antiquity, gives a person the feeling of living in the 10th-12th centuries at the very first sight. Behind us, this building stands out for its simple but magnificent style and comforting appearance. Small graves can be seen along the side walls of the mosque from the courtyard to the entrance. These graves at least preserve a history of more than seven centuries and also show that Konya is the land of Sufis. Since the Seljuk state was founded in 1037, the sultans who led the state have constantly started to carry out strong reforms in the direction of developing science and Islamic culture. Today's Turkiye, which would once become the cradle of the Islamic culture, and its ancient capital, Konya, invited scholars from the east to the country. Maulana, whose real name is Jalaluddin Muhammed, was born on September 30, 1207, in the city of Balkh in what is now northern Afghanistan. He then left Balkh due to some political events and the Mongol invasion. Having lived in Mecca, Medina, Damascus, and various cities of Anatolia, Maulana Jalaluddin Rumi and his family came to Konya upon the invitation of the Anatolian Seljuk Sultan Alaaddin Keykubat. He started teaching religious sciences in Konya in 1240. His paths crossed with Dervish ?ams Tabrizi in 1244 in Konya and ?ams was to only one he had conversations with for some time. There is more to talk about these two famous Sufis who then captivated many hearts in the worlds fascinating place by destroying all stereotypes about the religion of Islam. It is indeed, the religion about truth and is an adverse enemy of terrorism and discrimination. On a visit to the mosque of Maulana Jalauddin Rumi, our tour guide Mehmet Donmez shared some interesting historical facts exclusively with Azernews. Our visit to Konya just coincided with the anniversary of a great scholar who has become a symbol of love, peace, brotherhood, and tolerance. Starting the trip by visiting Maulana is a must as this magnificent city is blessed with his holy and uplifting spirit. Behind this wonderful spiritual secret is the heavenly knowledge of Sufism and the unity of the human soul between the earth and the sky, which means also a celestial world. It is not for nothing that Konya is also a city of whirling dervishes who have been specially trained for more than a couple of years to perform this ritual properly. This is not a matter of physical ability but the human perception of the heavenly power and most importantly to be able to create a connection between earth and heaven. During the trip, we visited a variety of places that once functioned as dervish schools, but now have been turned into museums. Note that Konyas municipality and Culture Ministry have given much love to make museums attractive and rich in information about the past millennium. Another museum in Konya was IRFA (Irfan Civilization Research and Culture Center). The place we visited completely reflected the silhouette of the life of people who lived about eight centuries ago during Seljuks and the most useful information was provided by our tour leader Mehmet Donmez again sharing his historical knowledge with us. To recall, from September 16 to October 23, a large-scale project called "Turkiye Culture Route Festivals" covering five cities of the country is being implemented under the organization of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The project, which was founded for the first time in 2021 with the "Beyo?lu Culture Route Festival" in Istanbul, and held in Ankara, Canakkale, Diyarbak?r, Konya and Nev?ehir in 2022, was organized in a particularly large format this year on the occasion of the 100th year of the Republic of Turkiye. The aim of the project is to introduce and promote Turkiye's rich cultural heritage, art, unique cuisine in each region, and historical monuments - in short, a colorful cultural and tourism palette to the world. This time, "Turkiye Culture Route Festivals" is expanding covering five cities, including Istanbul, Ankara, Canakkale, Konya, and Diyarbak?r, and hundreds of events are planned to be held as well. In fact, this year, the route plan of the "Turkiye Culture Route Festivals" should have covered a total of 11 city provinces, including Gaziantep, which is known for its rich culinary culture and has been included in the UNESCO list. However, the country-wide consequences of the earthquake and disaster that occurred on February 6 and caused great loss and destruction in Gaziantep province changed the project's routes and time-space program. And events were organized within the framework of the project in several previously planned cities (including Trabzon and Nev?ehir in August). As regards the events in Konya, this is not the end of our trip - there are still charming music festivals waiting for us and interesting moments that keep thousands of historical secrets of Konya like a treasure. So to explore more together just stay with us Exclusive by Elnur Enveroglu from Konya, Turkiye The National Bank of Egypt (NBE) has sealed a deal to secure $100 million from the Abu Dhabi foreign aid agency to fund Egyptian exports from the UAE, read a press release on Wednesday. The financing will be provided by the Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX), the export-financing arm of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD). Our aim is to empower Emirati exporters to expand their international presence and enhance their competitiveness on a global scale; thus increasing their contribution to the economy," said Mohamed Saif Al-Suwaidi, the director-general of ADFD. The deal with NBE, Egypt's biggest state-owned bank, is the second with the ADEX to boost trade with the UAE. A $500 million agreement was signed in August with the Ministry of Finance to finance wheat imports through the UAE's Al-Dahra Agricultural Company. The trade volume between Egypt and the UAE increased by 6.5 percent to $4.6 billion during the first 11 months of 2022, up from $4.3 billion in the same period in 2021. The ADFD, which was founded in 1971 as the UAE's foreign aid organization, provides concessionary loans to finance initiatives for social and economic development in various countries. 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Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe Governor Dauda Lawal has insisted that the Zamfara State Government has enough facts to expose the agents of the federal government behind the secret negotiation with bandits. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, had accused the Zamfara State government of politicising security. This was in the light of a request for clarification by Governor Lawal over a secret dialogue with bandits orchestrated by agents of the federal government. A statement issued by the spokesperson to the Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris said the state government possessed hard evidence exposing some federal government agents involved in the negotiations with bandits in Zamfara State. He added that the Minister of Information should have conducted a thorough investigation before discrediting the Zamfara State government. The statement read in parts: We sought clarification from the federal government regarding the sneaky negotiations with bandits carried out by some of its agents without recourse to the State Government and heads of security agencies in the state. We have facts and evidence of what transpired between the agents of the federal government and the bandits during the negotiations in several places across Zamfara. It is disappointing that the information minister discredited our claim without verifying it first. What is expected of him as a professional is to collaborate with relevant authorities to substantiate the claims authenticity. Zamfara State Government respects protocol and established authority. We would not come out in the media to start exposing the names of the Federal Government agents involved in the covert dialogue with bandits. We want to clarify that those individuals leading secret negotiations with bandits in Zamfara are politicising insecurity, not the State Government. The Information Ministers statement claiming that there were no negotiations between government officials and bandits in Zamfara requires further clarification. We have already exposed a few locations where such talks were held with bandits, such as Birnin Magaji, Maradun, Mun Haye, Ajah, Bawo, and Bagege. Negotiating with bandits in Zamfara State is a grave mistake we cannot afford to make. It is not the solution to the problem and only encourages and emboldens the criminals. We urge the Federal Government to take a firm stance against such activities and investigate the motives of those who engage in them. The legal team of the Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, is planning to file a motion to challenge President Bola Tinubus plea for Chicago State University not to release privileged documents in his academic records. The Special Adviser to Atiku on Public Communications, Phrank Shaibu, disclosing newsmen that the legal team had up to 48 hours to respond to the motion in the US court. Atiku had earlier secured an order for CSU to make the presidents academic records available to his legal team. A magistrate, Jeffrey Gilbert, had last week ordered Tinubus alma mater to provide all relevant and non-privileged documents to the applicant within two days. Atiku is currently challenging the victory of the former Lagos State governor at the 2023 presidential poll and his recent affirmation by an election petition court in Nigeria. The documents sought by the PDP candidate, through his counsel, Angela Liu, include the record of admission and acceptance at the university, dates of attendance including degrees, awards, and honors attained by the former governor of Lagos State at the university, among others. But as the deadline given by Gilbert drew nearer on Thursday, Tinubus lawyers approached Maldonado, arguing that the earlier decision by Gilbert needed to be reviewed by a district judge. The request for a review and delay of the order till Monday was eventually granted by the US district judge. Tinubus application, filed by his lawyers, Oluwole Afolabi and Christopher Charmichael, advanced two reasons. First was that his academic records in issue are not useful in Nigerian courts as claimed by Atiku because the Nigerian election proceedings and the Nigerian courts have explicitly been unreceptive to the discovery. The second reason given was that Atikus request is unduly intrusive because it allows Applicant (Atiku) to conduct a fishing expedition into intervenors private, confidential, and protected educational records. When asked on Wednesday to confirm if Atiku has filed the suit as he earlier threatened in Monday, Shaibu reassured newsmen that the former vice president would submit the motion before midnight. He said, I am sure you have seen his application. We are working on our response. We have up till midnight today (Wednesday) to respond to them. And we will. On when they expect the court to rule over the matter, Shaibu stated that It is after we have responded to the court, that it will fix the date and inform the parties. When contacted for reaction, Coordinator of Tinubu Presidential Legal Team, Babatunde Ogala, who spoke via phone from his base in the United States said he would rather not speak on the development. As I told you earlier, I am still on vacation, he said. Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last election, has asked the United States court for the Northern District of Illinois, to overrule President Bola Tinubu's objections to the release of his academic records. Tinubu had filed an appeal against the order of the court directing the Chicago State University (CSU) to release his academic records to Abubakar. The president had argued that he ought to have been joined in the suit since it is his personal information that is being sought. Tinubu had also argued through his lawyers that what Abubakar was doing amounted to a "fishing expedition" because the deadline for the use of fresh documents in Nigerian courts had elapsed. The court had gone on to delay the order for the release of the records. WHAT THE LAW SAYS ABOUT APPEAL DEADLINES Section six of the election judicial proceedings practice directions, 2022, provides that a notice of appeal shall be filed at the registry of the tribunal or court of appeal within 21 days in respect of a final decision, and 14 days in respect of interlocutory rulings. However, section two of the Supreme Court election appeals practice directions, 2023, stipulates that an appellant shall file in the registry of the court of appeal, notice and grounds of appeal, within 14 days from the date of delivery of judgment appealed against. The presidential petition election tribunal delivered its judgment on September 6. That means Atiku had till September 20 to file his appeal which he did on September 18. 'DOCUMENTS CAN STILL BE USED IN SUPREME COURT' However, in a fresh application to the US court dated September 27, Abubakar through his attorneys - Angela Liu, Andrew Levander, Alexandre de Gramont, Tooba Hussain - argued that the documents he is seeking can still be used in election litigation back home in Nigeria. Abubakar is also asking the court to overrule Tinubu's objections in their entirety. "The Court should overrule the objections in their entirety," the application reads. "If the Court overrules the Objections, Applicant respectfully requests that it enter an order requiring production of documents no later than October 2, 2023, and the deposition scheduled no later than October 3, to allow time for transcripts to be finalized." Abubakar said "the discovery obtained" should "be sent to Nigeria (which is six (6) hours ahead) by October 4 so that such evidence may, in turn, be filed with the Supreme Court by October 5, which is when Applicant's Nigerian counsel intend to submit any new evidence to the Supreme Court". Abubakar also argued that "the Supreme Court of Nigeria can consider new evidence in 'exceptional circumstances' under the Nigerian Electoral Act of 2022 and/or in its discretion". ALLEGED DISCREPANCIES Tinubu's credentials show that he graduated from CSU in 1979 with a bachelor's degree in business administration, accounting and management. However, there have been allegations bordering on discrepancies with Tinubu's certificate. In a previous suit filed before the US district court, Abubakar prayed that the court should subpoena Tinubu's files domiciled with CSU. In his fresh application, Abubakar reiterated that there are discrepancies with Tinubu's academic records. Hours before the masked men came, brandishing Cypriot flags and Molotov cocktails, hushed whispers of the imminent rampage travelled down the Limassol seafront strip home to many immigrant-owned businesses. Egyptian restaurant owners rushed to bring their water pipes indoors, and a Vietnamese vendor quickly cleared their street displays of greens and sugar cane stalks. But they couldn't hide the distinct cultural heritage each of them has proudly embraced as they have built their livelihoods on the Mediterranean island. Egyptian restaurateur Mohammed el-Basaraty, 38, recalled, "I was standing with a neighbour and she told me to leave... 'because if they see you, a foreigner, they will beat you', she said". He stowed away at the back of the restaurant as the men smashed the windows of the business he had built with his life savings. "We began to hear the sound of glass breaking... After that I smelled the smell of smoke and fire." The attack early this month came amid a surge in violence against migrants in Cyprus, which last year recorded the European Union's highest proportion of first-time asylum seekers relative to population. Experts blame the increased mainstreaming of xenophobia in Cypriot politics and media, fuelled by the spread of disinformation and the mismanagement of the large number of people trying to reach Europe. Just days earlier, locals near the western city of Paphos had launched a similar attack on migrants after years of friction with the hundreds of mostly Syrians living in a condemned apartment complex. Men with crowbars and sticks could be seen in videos shared on social media, shouting "out, out" as they marched through the streets. Twenty-one people were arrested, including 12 Syrians. Police had earlier raided the building to clear it of its residents after allegations of electricity theft spread on social media. Despite that precedent, as well as a heavy police presence ahead of the Limassol protest, residents say little was done to intervene. "They were more than 600 people," said Adel Hassan, 76, a local resident. "How many did the police arrest? Just 13?" Police did not immediately respond to an AFP request for comment, but police chief Stelios Papatheodorou acknowledged before parliament that the response was "slow". 'Pogroms' Some observers have voiced suspicions that hidden under the black balaclavas were members of the extreme right-wing party Elam, a group initially formed out of Greece's now-outlawed neo-Nazi Golden Dawn. Elam did not respond to AFP's request for comment, but the group has repeatedly denied involvement in the violence. Their staunch anti-immigration stance has helped them gain followers, with leader Christos Christou winning six percent of the vote in February's presidential election. But Giorgos Charalambous, a professor focused on European party politics and mobilisation at the University of Nicosia, said the violence could also be attributed to smaller far-right groups that accuse Elam of becoming too soft on immigration since achieving mainstream success. Charalambous says overall "hate speech" has become normalised across the political spectrum, creating an atmosphere conducive to the attacks that he described as "pogroms". "Individuals and politicians that spread fake news and racist rhetoric about immigration also come from more mainstream centre-right parties," he told AFP. Supporters of the Cypriot far-right National Popular Front (ELAM) wave Greek and party flags as they protest against the presence of illegal immigrants on the Mediterranean island, in Larnaca on June 16, 2023. Cyprus has been at the frontlines of large-scale migrant arrivals in recent years, which have seen the government take harsher steps, including increased pushbacks, according to the Cyprus Refugee Council. The UN refugee agency last month expressed concern after more than 100 Syrians were deported to Lebanon without adequate screening of their asylum applications. Such steps, buffeted by the crackdown near Paphos, may have emboldened far-right activists to turn their long-standing grievances into action, observers said. 'Sense of safety' The violence has "never escalated to this, although I can't say that we haven't seen it coming," said Corina Drousitiou of the Cyprus Refugee Council. She largely blamed the growing anti-migrant sentiment on inadequate measures by the authorities, particularly the previous government, also pointing to "the language used in official statements... which was quite evidently xenophobic". Responding to a request for comment, the interior ministry spokesperson in the current government, which was formed in March, blamed the unrest on "accumulated problems that were exploited by anonymous accounts on social media platforms". "In no case did the official side express any racist rhetoric," Elena Fysentzou told AFP. For many foreigners on the island, the damage is already done. "Things have changed. There isn't the sense of safety that we used to feel," Sayed Samir, the owner of Mr Habibi, one of the ransacked restaurants, told AFP. It took Chu Thi Dao years of hard work to scrape together enough money to open her convenience store overlooking the Limassol waterfront. "She wanted a better life for her children," her 17-year-old daughter, Flora, told AFP. A video of the 35-year-old Vietnamese woman crying at her shop after the attack quickly went viral across the island, drawing solidarity and support from the community and government. Like the Vietnamese shop, the majority of the businesses that were attacked are owned by people who had fled either unrest or dire economic conditions to settle in Cyprus years ago. Towards the end of the conversation, Flora's eyes start to glaze over with tears. "I want to stay here and live with my mom and family," the teenager said, struggling with the notion that this dream may now be shattered. Chu Thi Dao, the 35-year-old Vietnamese owner of a convenience shop that was attacked in an anti-migrant riot, stands by her merchandise at the premises in Cyprus' southern coastal city of Limassol on September 5, 2023. AFP Search Keywords: Short link: US President Joe Biden will give a key speech in Arizona Thursday on protecting democratic institutions, in a fresh attack on Donald Trump as the rivals ramp up their 2024 election battle. The White House said Democrat Bidens speech will also honour the legacy of late Arizona senator John McCain, the moderate Republican stalwart who shared his antipathy for Trump. With polls showing them neck-and-neck, the 80-year-old Biden has recently stepped up attacks on Republican frontrunner Trump for trying to destroy democracy. Populist tycoon Trump faces criminal charges for trying to subvert the 2020 election, which his supporters tried to overturn by attacking the Capitol on January 6, 2021. Bidens speech in Tempe, Arizona will focus on the importance of Americas institutions in preserving our democracy and the need for constant loyalty to the US Constitution, a White House official said. The president will honor his friend and war hero, the late Senator John McCain, whose intolerance for the abuse of power and faith in America sets a powerful example to live by, the official added. Invoking the memory of McCain, a Vietnam war hero and respected US political figure, is a clear bid by Biden to draw a contrast with the hard-right Trump. McCain loathed Trump, withdrawing his support for him in the 2016 presidential election and saying before his death from brain cancer in 2018 that he didnt want him at his funeral. The feeling was mutual, with Trump mocking his war hero status in 2015. Biden, on the other hand, delivered a eulogy at McCains funeral, saying that he loved him and that their friendship transcended political differences. The US election is still more than a year away but this week has seen Biden and Trump locked in their first major head-to-head skirmishes of the campaign. The pair made dueling visits to car workers in the battleground state of Michigan, with Biden standing on a picket line on Tuesday and Trump addressing employees on Wednesday. Biden then set off on a series of campaign events, which he used to train his fire on Trump on the issue of democracy again. Donald Trump and the MAGA Republicans are determined to destroy American democracy because they want to break down institutional structures, he told a reception in California late Wednesday. Bidens speech also comes the day after Republican candidates debated in California without Trump, who has said he is so far ahead of them in the polls that he doesnt need to turn up. AFP An Italian, Filippo Ferlazzo, who beat an Italy-based Nigerian man, Alika Ogorchukwu, to death in July 2022 has bagged a 24-year jail term. The convict bagged a 24-year jail term on Wednesday for causing the death of a 39-year-old Nigerian man who was on crutches, walking in a Marche coastal city in July 2022. The Chairman, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday. Dabiri-Erewa, in a statement signed by NiDCOM spokesperson, Gabriel Odu, commended the Nigerian Mission in Rome, for following through with the case and other cases involving Nigerians. She said, I am glad that this case finally got justice. Like I always say, there have to be consequences for actions. On July 29, 2022, Alika Ogorchukwu was assaulted in broad daylight as he was hawking. The attacker beat Ogorchukwu to death using Ogorchukwus crutches in front of several onlookers, who did not intervene. Some of the onlookers, however, recorded videos of the attack using their phones. On July 30, 2022, Ferlazzo was arrested on charges of having murdered Ogorchukwu and having stolen Ogorchukwus phone. The Italian Police stated that they believed Ferlazzo attacked Ogorchukwu after he had asked Ferlazzos girlfriend to buy a handkerchief. The incident was reported to have taken place at 2 p.m. on Friday in the main central street of Civitanova Marche, Italy. Ogorchukwu was found dead at the scene by paramedics. The Ogun State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has fixed Saturday, September 30, for the delivery of judgement in the petition filed by Ladi Adebutu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against the election of Dapo Abiodun of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Recall that the tribunal had on September 4 reserved judgment after parties adopted their final written addresses. The Hamidu Kunaza-led tribunal promised to communicate the date of judgment delivery to the parties. Our correspondent learnt on Thursday that the tribunal had sent notice to the counsel of the petitioners and the respondents, fixing Saturday for the judgement. Contacted, the Media Aide to Adebutu, the first petitioner, Afolabi Orekoya, confirmed to our correspondent that judgement would be delivered on September 30. Yes, it is true, Afolabi said when asked if the PDP counsel had been contacted that judgement would be delivered by the tribunal on Saturday. Adebutu is requesting the tribunal to declare him the winner of the March 18 governorship election in Ogun State, alleging non-compliance with the electoral act. Two people traveling in a bus conveying some final year students of Ladoke Akintola University, Ogbomoso, returning from a picnic, along Osogbo/Ifon/Oyo Boundary road, have been burnt to death in an accident late Wednesday evening. Five other occupants were rescued by the operatives of Osun Ambulance Scheme that responded to the distress call from the scene of the accident which happened near Ojutu Bridge, Ilobu. A resident of Okinni, identified as Adeyanju, who spoke to our correspondent on Thursday, said the driver of the bus conveying the victims, had hit a commercial motorcyclist in the town, and was trying to escape the rage of some angry residents chasing after him. Few meters from Ojutu Bridge, the driver lost control of the vehicle and the bus somersaulted and caught fire. Some people were rescued before the fire could spread, but three people were burnt to death. Operatives of OAmbulance Scheme came around to rescue some of the victims, Adeyanju said. During an interview with our correspondent, the Head of Operations, Elizabeth Arowosafe, said the organisation received the distress call around 9:50pm on Wednesday that a bus conveying some final year students of LAUTECH, returning from a picnic was involved in the accident. She said, We responded around 9:53pm. I was told the driver had hit someone in Okinni and was speeding to avoid some people around the area chasing after him, when the incident happened. The driver alongside a lady and a male student were burnt to death. We were able to rescue 5 people. We rushed them to UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital in Osogbo. The hospital did well. In fact, there was no enough space to accommodate the injured people and we had to leave one of our stretchers for them to use. We could not recognise the dead victims. They were travelling inside a bus. I learnt that the occupants of the bus are final year students of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomosho, who went to Erin-Ijesa waterfall for an excursion. One of the injured students confirmed to us that they were coming from an excursion. She gave us names of victims, but she didnt have the strength to name the others. Also commenting on the crash, the Public Relations Officer of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Agnes Ogungbemi, said the accident was caused by violation of speed limit which led to loss of control. The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Senator Dino Melaye has promised to retire All Progressives Congress to political obituary. He stated this in Lokoja during the inauguration of the PDP Local Government election campaign committee of the 21 local government councils held at the party Secretariat on Thursday. The former Kogi West Senator who berated the ruling party over alleged maladministration, non-payment of salaries, and insecurity, admonished electorates not to be intimidated, before, during and after the November Governorship election. He said Kogi State has become a laughing stock among the comity of States, stressing that, the present administration has succeeded in dividing the people along ethnic and religious lines. Melaye, while appreciating the Local Government Chairmen for their steadfastness towards securing victory for the party, posited that, when elected, Kogi State will be wearing a new look. The PDP candidate said This election is a walkover for PDP because of maladministration, poverty, non-payment of salaries, gratuity, promotion are not being cash backed and many more. The people of Kogi State are not happy as they are looking for a messiah that will save them from captivity. Dino Melaye and Habiba are saying here we are, send us. I want to advise especially our Local Government Chairmen, you have all become evangelists and Imam to encourage our people to come out and vote. Our people are afraid because APC has sold fear in the minds of the people. I am telling you that as Dino Melaye, I am not afraid of Yahaya Bello or the APC. I am assuring us, let the people of Kogi State show that we are not cowards. As citizens of Kogi State, we are not a conquered territory. We will come out and vote, and campaign in all the nooks and crannies of the State including Agasa, the home town of Governor Bello. The PDP is a party with plans, well organized, who uses power for the interest of the People. Today, any Kogites that are still thinking of voting for the APC have what I call Arthritis of the brain. No sane logical human being will today vote for APC in Kogi State. Is it about our roads? In the last year, there has been no drop of water in Lokoja, the capital city of Kogi State. Is it about the dilapidated hospitals that have become mere consulting clinics? Is it about non-payment or percentage payment of salaries? Is it about insecurities of lives and properties? This is the first time in the history of our State that House of Assembly members and Commissioners have no vehicles. This is the first time in the history of our State that a permanent Secretary will be using Okada to move to office. This is the first time in the history of our State where workers were retrenched for frivolous reasons. This is the first time in the history of our State that 120 Professors were ceremoniously sacked from Kogi State University. They are qualified Professors who graduated from first-generation Universities in this Country. The screening at Kogi State University took them out of the system. By the grace of God, we are going to build a new Kogi State While appealing to electorates to kick against any form of ethnic agenda ahead of the November Governorship election, Melaye assured Kogites that his administration would reunite the people when elected. Earlier in his remarks, the caretaker Chairman of PDP in Kogi State, Sen. Philip Aduda said the opposition party will put an end to bad governance in the state. We want activities to start immediately for the PDP to win convincingly in Kogi State. The party is fully on ground to deliver for Dino/Habiba in November. It is operation deliver your polling units and guide them from any obstacles. Speaking on behalf of the 21 Local Government Chairman, Olajide John from Kabba/Bunu assured his party faithful that no stone will be left unturned to guarantee victory for the PDP. He maintained that the Chairmen will work in synergy and support the newly constituted Executive to deliver for the opposition party. It is all about the party, our destiny and setting Kogi State free from the hand of a tyrant. By the special Grace of God, Kogi State will be free. We must work together by having trust, and confidence in each other. With this, we will attain our desired victory he stated. DEAR MISS MANNERS: It appears that servers at casual-dining establishments are not trained to remove trash from tables. Every time I dine at one, my companions and I are soon faced with a pile of trash on the table and no place to put it: paper straw wrappers, creamer cups, used sugar packets and the sticky papers that are used in place of napkin rings. Either I gather up this debris and dispose of it at the hostess stand or in the restroom, or it sits there the entire meal. Yes, I can ask the server to take it, but I feel awkward holding onto small handfuls of trash and handing them to a server. What does Miss Manners advise? Am I doomed to look at trash for my entire meal? GENTLE READER: Although the availability of non-casual dining declines every day, Miss Manners would like to believe that there is limited overlap between restaurants with paper napkins and those that employ roving waitstaff. As she waits for it to disappear entirely (the use of paper napkins, not formal dining), she has no objection to your pushing the detritus into a neat pile under the shade of the artificial floral centerpiece *** MORE FROM MISS MANNERS: Miss Manners: Sometimes its helpful to understand why Im being asked or told to do something Miss Manners: Is it rude to compliment a complete stranger on their hair? Miss Manners: A dinner guest took a seat at the head of the table and the hostess wasnt pleased Miss Manners: No offense, but ... ' usually precedes something offensive Miss Manners: What does the expression have a good one mean? *** (Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.) *** COPYRIGHT 2023 JUDITH MARTIN DISTRIBUTED BY ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106; 816-581-7500 Authorities continued to search Thursday for a New Jersey man convicted of attempted murder nearly 20 years ago who failed to return to a residential work-release program as he neared the end of his prison sentence. Edward Berbon, 54, has been missing from Volunteers of America Delaware Valleys Hope Hall in Camden since Saturday, according to the state Department of Corrections. The work release program is designed to provide prisoners nearing the end of their sentences with support as they transition back into the community, state officials said. Berbon was scheduled to be released in February 2024. Mr. Berbon was working in Mount Laurel on Saturday, September 23, and failed to report back to the community release program in Camden that night, a DOC spokeswoman said Thursday. Mount Laurel police said in an email Wednesday that Berbon is not considered to be a threat to the public. Berbon had previously served time for theft and robbery, according to Department of Corrections records. Just hours after being released from prison in July 2004, Berbon went to his parents home in Hamilton Township in Mercer County and attacked them, according to police at the time. He slashed his fathers throat and left him in critical condition with multiple stab wounds to his back and chest, authorities said. He also partially severed one of his mothers fingers, authorities said. Both parents survived the attack. Anyone with information about Berbons whereabouts is asked to call the states fugitive unit at 1-800-523-3829. Anyone who spots Berbon in person is asked to call 911. Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook. More New Jersey hospitals are reinstating mask policies amid rising cases of COVID-19. Hackensack Meridian Health said it is now requiring masks at eight of its facilities: Carrier Clinic in Montgomery Township, Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, JFK University Medical Center in Edison, Ocean University Medical Center in Brick, Old Bridge Medical Center, Palisades Medical Center in North Bergen, Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank and Southern Ocean Medical Center in Stafford. This decision was made due to an increase in COVID-19 prevalence in these hospitals, facilities and communities, the health system said in a statement. The health and safety of our team members and patients has always been and continues to be our number one priority. The health system noted that masking is strongly encouraged, but not required at our other hospitals and facilities as it continues to monitor COVID-19 activity throughout the state. Cases have been on the rise for a couple of months in New Jersey. Last week the state reported 4,309 cases the most since February. The facilities now join Shore Medical Center in Somers Point and Cape Regional Medical Center in Cape May County, both of which announced a return this month to masking policies. At Shore Medical Center, patients, visitors and hospital staff are required to wear surgical masks in patient areas. At Cape Regional, workers at the facility must wear masks when providing direct patient care. The hospital is also asking patients to mask up when receiving care. Masking has been a controversial issue throughout the pandemic, but the return of masks in hospitals is a signal that the virus is still a threat, particularly to those with immune deficiencies. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Spencer Kent may be reached at skent@njadvancemedia.com. The six-seat blue and white Go Trenton shuttle immediately attracted attention as it hit the streets Wednesday for the first time New Jerseys capital city. Shuttle driver Hytha Thomas quickly turned into a rolling ambassador for the program, which provides rides inside the city for $2. At a stoplight, another driver wanted to know more about the curious-looking vehicle. You can tell your seniors they can get rides to events at the church, Ill bring a flier for you, Thomas said. The states first electric-powered shuttle system started rolling in Trenton Wednesday to be followed by a soft opening next week of the first of two new Go Trenton services. Environmentalists and supporters said they hope it will be the blueprint for operating similar fleets of electric powered shuttles in other New Jersey cities. This is the type of action we need, and it must accelerate, said Shawn M. LaTourette, commissioner of the state Department of Environmental Protection. By moving off fossil fueled powered vehicles, were providing better air quality. GO Trenton offers has two main services. The first is an on-demand ride-sharing service inside the Trenton borders. The shuttle and app to book rides is operated by Circuit. A second service will soon provide electric van service to connect Trenton residents with jobs outside the city. That aspect focuses on later shifts when buses arent available and a cab or ride-share vehicle would be too expensive for workers, said Sean Jackson, CEO of Isles Inc., which developed the shuttle service in conjunction with the city, state, experts, and other groups. This is the first all-electric shuttle service in New Jersey, Jackson said. Its mission is to promote safe, affordable transportation for residents. The shuttle is a concept called micro-mobility that is designed to fill the gaps between conventional bus and rail service. Residents of some urban neighborhoods live in what experts call transit deserts where they are beyond walking distance of existing bus or train service. The hope is this can be a model for the entire state and that Go Trenton starts here in the capital, but every major city could have mobility programs like it, said Doug OMalley, director of Environment New Jersey. We know we have a crisis for mobility in our cities. Micro-mobility programs such as Via in Jersey City and the Camden Loop provide on-demand rides in gas-powered minivans and small cars. We know Camden Loop and Via works, but we want to know that vehicles that doing micro-mobility are electric and Go Trenton is going to be the model for that to take statewide, OMalley said. Go Trenton shuttles will start operating Oct. 4 on a Wednesday to Saturday schedule from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., said Ben Haygood, an Isles Inc. spokesperson. Go Trenton will run on a full schedule in a month, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m Monday to Thursday, 7 a.m to 10 p.m on Fridays and between noon to 10 p.m., Saturdays. The service will be closed Sunday. The goal is to increase to seven days a week in 2024, Haygood said. Using electric vehicles reduces air pollution in cities where resident now suffer from a disproportionate amount of respiratory illnesses, primarily caused by motor vehicles, OMalley said. Trentons asthma rate is four times higher than the rest of Mercer County. The concept, announced by Gov. Phil Murphy in December 2021, became reality with the help of a $5 million state grant that allowed the city to support the startup and eventual expansion of the system in a city where 30% of the household either dont own or have access to a car. This is a big deal, said Assemblyman Daniel Benson, D-Middlesex, the Assembly Transportation Committee chairman. This is a good innovative program that marries the needs of the community and environment. The state also donated space in a Perry Street lot for Go Trenton to use as a hub. The DEP funded installation of 14 low-cost community charging stations for residents who have electric vehicles, but live in apartments and dont have access to charging infrastructure. Go Trenton also is funded by a seed grant from the state DEP eMobility program, the Pay$2Plug In program and PSE&G Make Ready project. If this is phase one, I cant wait to see phase II, said Teska Frisby, Trenton council president. Two dollars to get anywhere in the city, you cant beat that. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Larry Higgs may be reached at lhiggs@njadvancemedia.com. An employee of an Asbury Park restaurant tested positive for Hepatitis A and the Monmouth County Health Department has asked anyone who dined there to be cautious. An investigation by the department found that an employee of Cardinal Provisions, a brunch restaurant located on Bangs Avenue, worked while infectious on Sept. 7-10, 12, 14, 17, 19, and 21, according to a release from Monmouth County. Health department staff visited the eatery and conducted and inspection which found no evidence of food safety violations, however the restaurant voluntarily closed and did not reopen until all of its exposed employees were vaccinated. The county asked anyone who dined at the restaurant on any of the dates the employee was infectious to consider receiving a vaccination within two weeks from the last date of exposure, and to monitor their health for symptoms of Hepatitis A infection for up to 50 days after exposure. They were also asked to wash their hands with soap and warm water frequently and thoroughly, especially after using the bathroom and before preparing food. The department also advised anyone experiencing symptoms to stay home and consult a doctor. While it is uncommon for restaurant patrons to become infected with Hepatitis A virus due to an infected food handler, the virus can be caught through ingestion of contaminated food and water or through direct contact with an infectious person. Hepatitis A is a viral infection of the liver that can cause loss of appetite, nausea, tiredness, fever, stomach pain, brown-colored urine, and light-colored stools, county officials said. Yellowing of the skin or eyes is another possible symptom. People can become ill up to seven weeks after being exposed to the virus. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com. A Morris County man who spent six months in jail on charges that were eventually dismissed because police twice illegally searched his home has filed a lawsuit against the officers and township for false arrest. Erik D. Vandevelde, 34, of Roxbury Township, was arrested June 8, 2022, after police said they found more than a dozen firearms, ammunition and illegal drugs inside his home. The arrest came after township police officers entered Vandeveldes home twice, including once without a search warrant. The entry and subsequent searches were unlawful and violative of plaintiffs civil rights, states the lawsuit filed in federal court in Newark on Sept. 19. Roxbury police and township officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the suit Thursday. Vandevelde was alone and asleep inside his home when three Roxbury police officers entered without a search warrant and without any available exceptions to the search warrant requirement, the suit says. After searching his home, the officers arrested Vandevelde on his front porch and took him to police headquarters. Around the same time, a fourth officer sought and obtained a search warrant from a New Jersey Superior Court judge so police could conduct another search and seize evidence. The search warrant was obtained without probable cause, the lawsuit alleges. The second search allegedly turned up 14 firearms, more than 100,000 rounds of ammunition, 100 high-capacity magazines, LSD, hallucinogenic mushrooms, ketamine and marijuana, according to published reports. But all evidence seized from Vandeveldes home was suppressed by a trial court judge because the officers entered the first time without a warrant, which made the second search equally unlawful, the suit says. Vandevelde was released from jail on Dec. 1, 2022, and the trial courts ruling was affirmed by the appellate division on June 22, the suit says. On July 18, the Morris County Prosecutors Office filed a motion to dismiss the case and all charges were dropped, according to the lawsuit. The lawsuit says the six months Vandevelde spent in jail resulted in great financial hardship, along with emotional pain and serious personal injury. Vandevelde claims six police officers including a corporal and the townships police chief violated Vandeveldes constitutional right to be secure in his home without fear of unreasonable searches. The suit accuses the officers and the township of willful misconduct, false arrest, unlawful imprisonment, malicious prosecution and illegal search and seizure. Jeffrey M. Patti, the attorney who filed the lawsuit, said Thursday that police had no right to enter his clients home. The United States Constitution protects all of our rights to be secure in our persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, Patti said in a statement. The entry, search, seizure and arrest were patently unlawful and the Superior Court of New Jersey and the Appellate Division agrees. Mr. Vandeveldes life was ruined by the unlawful actions of the Roxbury police, Patti said. Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook. A man who conspired to steal checks from mailboxes around New Jersey has been sentenced to state prison, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger said. Brando Mancebo, 24, a former Paterson resident, was sentenced to 27 months on Wednesday. He pleaded guilty in April 2021 to possession of stolen mail and conspiracy to commit bank fraud. Mancebo and three others broke into U.S. Postal Service mailboxes around Bergen, Hudson and Morris counties between 2018 and 2019 to steal envelopes that contained checks, officials said. They then conspired to deposit the checks into their own bank accounts and withdrew the funds, authorities said. The three alleged co-conspirators, Miguel Ortiz, 22, Victor Emilio Mejia Adames, 21, and Tiffany Diaz Fermin, 24, all Paterson residents, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud in April 2021. Ortiz was sentenced to 17 months in prison in November 2021. As part of his sentence, he was also subject to three years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $113,987 in restitution and forfeiture. The U.S. Attorneys Office has not provided an update on the criminal cases of Adames or Fermin. As part of Mancebos sentence, he will be subject to five years of supervised release and is required to pay $108,399 in restitution and forfeiture. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com. Camden sits just across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, but the two nights of looting in that city in which dozens of businesses were vandalized and at least 70 were taken into custody have not crossed state borders. While law enforcement in cities of Camden, Trenton and Atlantic City are monitoring the situation, past incidents of unrest in Pennsylvanias largest city have largely remained contained there, official said. Weve never been affected by it, said Dan Keashen, a spokesman for the Camden County Police Department, which patrols Camden. This is no different than any other time from the George Floyd murder on down to (the events of the past two nights). We havet had any challenges in that regard. Theres been no impact whatsoever and no issues correlated to it. A retail shop was damaged, Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, Philadelphia. A flash mob-style ransacking and vandalism to downtown stores Tuesday night came after a peaceful protest over a judges decision to dismiss murder and other charges against a Philadelphia police officer who shot and killed a driver, Eddie Irizarry, through a rolled-up window. (Elizabeth Robertson/The Philadelphia Inquirer via AP)AP The ransacking Tuesday night at dozens of stores including Foot Locker, Lululemon and Apple came after a peaceful protest over a judges decision to dismiss murder and other charges against a Philadelphia police officer who shot and killed a driver, Eddie Irizarry, through a rolled-up window. Looting also continued Thursday morning, according to 6abc.com. Those doing the ransacking were not affiliated with the protest, Interim Philadelphia Police Commissioner John Stanford said at a news conference, calling the group a bunch of criminal opportunists. Officials in Atlantic City and Trenton echoed a similar message to their Camden counterparts there have been no signs of trouble in their cities. Atlantic City police Lt. Kevin Fair said there has been no uptick in retail theft in the city either in the past two nights or even in recent weeks. We are well aware of what is happening in Philadelphia, but it seems to be isolated to Philadelphia, Fair said Thursday, adding that business owners have consistently expressed the need for additional police officers. Fair declined to say if Atlantic City police have beefed up patrols as a result of the widespread stealing in Philadelphia. Trenton police are also keeping an eye on the events in Philadelphia, but not overly worried about trouble spreading to the capital city. We are aware of the looting in Philadelphia and monitoring intelligence as it pertains to Trenton, Detective Lt. Nate Bolognini said. At this time we are not concerned the looting will affect the Trenton area. We are vigilant and have a plan in place if need be. The Curaleaf dispensary sits damaged where a car was used to the rip off the front doors on Tuesday, Sept. 26. 2023, in Philadelphia. A flash mob-style ransacking and vandalism to downtown stores Tuesday night came after a peaceful protest over a judges decision to dismiss murder and other charges against a Philadelphia police officer who shot and killed a driver, Eddie Irizarry, through a rolled-up window. (Steven M. Falk/The Philadelphia Inquirer via AP)AP Further north, Newark police said Thursday there has not been an increase in retail crime and said officers regularly check in with business owners and conduct walking patrols in commercial areas. Target said Wednesday it plans to close nine stores nationally including one in New York City by Oct. 21 due to a rise in coordinated retail theft in major cities. The other eight are in the San Francisco, Portland and Seattle areas. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. New Jerseys fiscal watchdog is calling out nine municipalities over excessive payouts to their employees, charging they are dragging their feet on reforms to rein in overly generous compensation. In a letter Thursday, Acting State Comptroller Kevin Walsh threatened to ask the state to withhold funding to the towns including Hamilton in Mercer County, Piscataway in Middlesex County and West New York in Hudson County if they continue to disregard efforts to address hefty retirement payouts that have long been under scrutiny in New Jersey. The comptrollers warning came more than a year after his office published a scathing report that found many local governments failed to comply with laws enacted in 2007 and 2010 that limit the amount of sick leave and vacation time employees can cash out when they retire. Its deja vu all over again. Another corruption trial for Sen. Bob Menendez. Menendez now has as many corruption indictments as he has thumbs. What an incorrigible little scamp. Last time around, he was vacationing on an eye doctor/convicted felons dime and the jury was hung. This time around, Menendez and his wife are accused of taking bribes from Egyptian American business man Wael Hana. New Jerseys largest state workers union has reached a tentative agreement with Gov. Phil Murphy on a new contract to cover more than 30,000 employees who work in the executive branch. In a statement released Thursday, the Communications Workers of America New Jersey said it was still finalizing terms in writing and would provide its members with full contract details by early next week. Since February, our membership has been unified in our goal of winning significant salary growth, protecting healthcare, and recognizing telework as a new reality in many of our worksites, CWA District 1 Vice President Dennis Trainor said in a statement. Embattled U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez spoke to his fellow Senate Democrats during a closed-door lunch meeting Thursday at the U.S. Capitol, making his case for their support and reiterating he wont resign after more than half of them have called on the New Jersey lawmaker to step down. The gathering came a day after Menendez pleaded not guilty in court to federal corruption charges and as pressure continues tSen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., told reporters afterwards that basically the whole theme of everything was every American is innocent until proven guilty, giving the benefit of the doubt. Fall began last weekend, but were still more than a month from the end of Daylight Savings Time for 2023 Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, when the clock will fall back one hour and in theory we get one extra hour of sleep. Days will continue to get shorter through fall, which began on Saturday morning. The sun is now setting well before 7 p.m. in New Jersey and will set by 6:30 p.m. starting Oct. 7 The sun will set in Newark at 5:52 p.m. on Nov. 4. The following day after Daylight Saving time concludes sunset is more than an hour earlier at 4:50 p.m. The amount of daylight will continue to shorten each day until Dec. 21 when the winter solstice arrives. Then the length of days will begin to increase until the summer solstice on June 20, 2024. The flip side is that the sun will rise approximately one hour earlier each morning. On Nov. 5, sunrise is 7:32 a.m. The next day the sun comes up at 6:33 a.m. While millions of people will travel home from work mostly or entirely in the dark in November, their morning commute will include more daylight. Clocks officially fall back at 2 a.m. on the first Sunday in November to 1 a.m. Daylight Saving Time started on Sunday, March 12, 2023 and will end on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023 a run of 238 days. It has lasted from the second Sunday in March until the first Sunday in November since 2007. We next turn the clocks ahead on March 10, 2024 126 days after turning them back. Daylight Saving Time in 2024 will end on Nov. 3, 2024. The concept dates back more than a century when English architect William Willett proposed the idea to change the clocks in 1907 in The Waste of Daylight. The suggestion of using daylight more efficiently can be traced to Benjamin Franklin. While visiting in Paris in 1784, he wrote a letter to the editors of the Journal of Paris calling for a tax on every Parisian whose windows were shuttered after sunrise to encourage the economy of using sunshine instead of candles, according to Michael Downing, author of Spring Forward: The Annual Madness of Daylight Saving Time. Hawaii and most of Arizona do not observe Daylight Saving Time. The time change is also not observed in U.S. territories of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Seventeen states have enacted legislation to make Daylight Saving Time permanent. Voters in California have voted to authorize year-round Daylight Saving Time. Those changes, however, require federal approval. In March 2022, the U.S. Senate passed the Sunshine Protection Act, which would end changing the clocks twice a year. The U.S. House of Representatives didnt take a vote on it, though. A handful of provinces in Canada most of Saskatchewan and Yukon have adopted permanent daylight saving as has parts of British Columbia and two communities in northwest Ontario. About 70 countries observe Daylight Saving Time. Most of North America, Europe and parts of South America and New Zealand adhere to it, while China, Japan, India and most other countries do not. It starts on different dates elsewhere. In Europe for example, Daylight Saving Time starts the last Sunday in March and ends the final Sunday in October. In much of Australia, residents will turn their clocks ahead one hour on Saturday. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. A disorganized storm system in the central Atlantic Ocean developed into Tropical Storm Rina Thursday morning, becoming the 17th named storm of the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season. Rina was generating top winds of 40 mph and is expected to strengthen during the next few days as it spins several hundred miles away from another active storm system, Tropical Storm Philippe. The National Hurricane Center said Tropical Storm Rina poses no threat to land as it continues to move slowly toward the north-northwest. The agencys forecast map takes Rina on a path in the general direction of Bermuda, but forecasters say it is too early to know where the storm is heading outside of the next few days. This satellite image shows the location of Tropical Storm Philippe and newly formed Tropical Storm Rina in the central Atlantic Ocean as of Thursday morning, Sept. 28, 2023.National Hurricane Center The tropical storm should begin to turn more westward today and continue this general motion for the next several days, the hurricane center said Thursday morning. Early next week, the system is expected to turn northward as a mid-level ridge builds to the west. Forecasters say its possible Rina could interact or merge with Philippe during the next several days. As of late Thursday morning, Philippe is producing sustained winds of 50 mph, but the storm is moving very slowly toward the west-northwest, at a pace of only 2 mph, and it is a very disorganized and elongated storm, the hurricane center said in its latest advisory. A slow westward or southwestward motion is expected during the next few days. This is the forecast path of Tropical Storm Philippe, which has become very slow moving and disorganized, according to forecasters from the National Hurricane Center.National Hurricane Center As of now, Philippe poses no threat to land, but forecasters say they should have a better handle on its long-range track in a few days. For now, forecasters are advising people in the northern Leeward Islands, Puerto Rico and the U.S. and British Virgin Islands to monitor the progress of the storm. Here in New Jersey, heavy rain from a newly-forming coastal storm unrelated to Tropical Storms Philippe and Rina is expected late Thursday through late Friday or early Saturday, posing a flooding threat. Current weather radar Thank you for relying on us to provide the local weather news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. Len Melisurgo may be reached at LMelisurgo@njadvancemedia.com or @LensReality. 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. They're not harming anyone. Leave them be. Food vendors are fine as long as it's fair and they're inspected It's getting too crowded on the neutral ground. The city should crack down I spend all my time in Metairie Vote View Results The first fall cold front, Vatican calls to spare death row and everything to know on saltwater intrusion. During a tour of the West Jefferson High School with coronavirus precautions it can be seen that each desk in the classroom has a grey or red sticker on the top corner in Harvey, La. Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2020. Each period, students will be asked to alternate their use of desks and to clean them off after each class. The school is scheduled to open on August 26. (Photo by Max Becherer, NOLA.com, The Times-Picayune | The New Orleans Advocate) Moving trucks around the corner from the 1400 block of Carondelet Street in New Orleans where many recently built homes are being used as short term rentals in New Orleans on Thursday, July 13, 2023. (Photo by Chris Granger | The Times-Picayune | NOLA.com) Evan Milligan, center, plaintiff in Merrill v. Milligan, an Alabama redistricting case that could have far-reaching effects on minority voting power across the United States, speaks with members of the press following oral arguments outside the Supreme Court on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2022. Standing behind Milligan are Milligan's counsel Deuel Ross, from left, Letetia Jackson, Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Ala., and Janai Nelson, President and Director-Counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. HAMMOND A Crown Point man who pleaded guilty to defrauding insurance companies in June was sentenced to 12 months and a day in prison on Wednesday, according to court records. Marlon Underwood, 49, was indicted by a federal grand jury in 2021 for tricking a Maryland insurance firm to pay him for insurance policies he sold to Northwest Indiana residents. Chief Judge Jon DeGuilio delivered Underwood's sentence. Underwood was represented by attorney Darnail Lyles. The indictment states that Underwood was not a licensed insurance agent, but he worked with one, who was unnamed in charges as part of Underwood's plea agreement. Underwood allegedly collected personal, medical and bank information from Region residents to submit life insurance policy applications to insurance companies. Though some of the applications were legitimate, charges state, Underwood "also submitted insurance applications for customers who did not authorize the applications." Underwood received $842 from some of these unauthorized applications, as many insurance companies offer commission before policyholders pay for premiums. In his plea agreement, Underwood agreed that he visited an East Chicago home and convinced an elderly couple to apply for life insurance in September 2018. He then purportedly used that couple's information and used it to apply for other insurance policies, without their knowledge. Underwood was initially charged with mail fraud, aggravated identify theft, fraud and identity theft, according to court records. The aggravated identity theft charge and the mail fraud charge were both dropped as a result of Underwood's plea agreement. PORTAGE A judge will have to decide if two former Valparaiso University faculty members have legal standing to stop the university from selling three paintings from the Brauer Museum of Art. That's after Porter County Superior Court Judge Jeffery Thode heard arguments on Wednesday from lawyers representing the university and Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita, who filed motions to dismiss the lawsuit brought by Richard Brauer, the museum's founding director and namesake, and Philipp Brockington, a retired professor and museum benefactor. In February, Valparaiso University President Jose Padilla announced the university was planning on selling three of the most valuable pieces in the art museum's collection to fund renovations of some student residence halls. The artwork in question is Georgia O'Keefe's "Rust Red Hills", Frederic E. Church's "Mountain Landscape" and Childe Hassam's "The Silver Vale and the Golden Gate". In April, Brauer and Brockington sued the university, Padilla and Rokita to block the sale of the paintings, claiming it violated the Percy H. Sloan Trust, which donated the artwork to Valpo. In May, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss the suit, claiming Brauer and Brockington had no standing to sue since they were not directly connected to the charitable trust. Earlier this month, the university relocated the three artwork pieces to a "secure, off-site location" ahead of the legal proceeding. During the hearing, which was attended by Brauer, Brockington and a few Valpo students, the lawyer for the university, Colby Barkes, argued the plaintiffs have no direct connection to the trust, citing state law which lays out who can bring legal challenges regarding a charitable trust, which include the state's attorney general. Barkes also alleged that by including Rokita as a defendant in the suit, the plaintiffs were attempting to usurp the attorney general's office's ability to make a decision on whether the artwork could be sold. Deputy Attorney General Kari Morrigan, representing Rokita, continued the argument that Brauer and Brockington lacked legal standing to sue based on common law. Furthermore, she stated the attorney general's office had been working on the matter, but the legal proceedings had stalled that process. "If anything, they've jumped the gun," Morrigan told the judge. She went on to say the office was not compliant with the university or unwilling to enforce the terms of the trust. Patrick McEuen, the attorney for the plaintiffs, acknowledged that standing was going to be an issue when he filed the lawsuit. However, he argued both individuals had standing based on common law. The lawyer noted Brauer's name on the museum and his involvement in acquiring two of the three art pieces while the museum's curator. McEuen also mentioned how the endowment created by Brockington was meant to benefit the museum, and if the sale went through, Brockington's donations could go elsewhere. In addition, McEuen argued the sale could cause the art museum to "cease to exist" stating no other art institution would want to work with them. The plaintiffs' lawyer further argued state law didn't restrict challenges to the trust to just the attorney general's office. The issue of a $5.77 million bond the university requested from the plaintiffs was brought up. However, both sides agreed to address the matter when the judge issued his ruling. Thode is expected to make his decision by the end of this week. Close Pines Village resident George Iemmolo, 91, catches pizza dough tossed to him at a pizza party on Thursday evening at the senior living facility. Frank Krysinski enjoys dessert made by Gordon Food Service Culinary Specialist Bill Barker at an annual dinner held on the patio outside of Pines Village in Valparaiso. Residents from Pines Village and Meridian Woods enjoyed dinner on the patio at a pizza event on Thursday evening at Pines Village in Valparaiso. Residents from Pines Village and Meridian Woods enjoyed dinner on the patio at a pizza event on Thursday evening at Pines Village in Valparaiso. Tomato Bar Pizza Cook Jarrod Moxley shows Pines Village residents how to toss pizza tough at an outdoor dinner on Thursday evening. Tomato Bar Pizza Cooks David Kepperling (left) and Jarrod Moxley (right) plate woodfired pizzas at an outdoor dinner held at Pines Village in Valparaiso on Thursday. Pines Village residents Helen Wiese and Mike Walsh enjoy woodfired pizza from Tomato Bar at an outdoor dinner on Thursday evening at Pines Village in Valparaiso. Tomato Bar Pizza Cook Tyler Jacobs prepares to put a crumbled sausage pizza into the woodfire grill at an outdoor dinner on Thursday evening at Pines Village in Valparaiso. Gordon Food Service Culinary Specialist Bill Barker makes a cocktail for Pines Village residents at an outdoor dinner on Thursday evening in Valparaiso. Residents from Pines Village and Meridian Woods enjoyed dinner on the patio at a pizza event on Thursday evening at Pines Village in Valparaiso. Residents from Pines Village and Meridian Woods parked their walkers along the side walk on Thursday evening at Pines Village in Valparaiso to enjoy pizza and drinks. Pines Village is an independent, senior living facility in Valparaiso. Pines Village pizza night Residents from Pines Village and Meridian Woods celebrated pizza night Thursday evening on the patio outside of Pines Village in Valparaiso. Pines Village resident George Iemmolo, 91, catches pizza dough tossed to him at a pizza party on Thursday evening at the senior living facility. Frank Krysinski enjoys dessert made by Gordon Food Service Culinary Specialist Bill Barker at an annual dinner held on the patio outside of Pines Village in Valparaiso. Residents from Pines Village and Meridian Woods enjoyed dinner on the patio at a pizza event on Thursday evening at Pines Village in Valparaiso. Residents from Pines Village and Meridian Woods enjoyed dinner on the patio at a pizza event on Thursday evening at Pines Village in Valparaiso. Tomato Bar Pizza Cook Jarrod Moxley shows Pines Village residents how to toss pizza tough at an outdoor dinner on Thursday evening. Tomato Bar Pizza Cooks David Kepperling (left) and Jarrod Moxley (right) plate woodfired pizzas at an outdoor dinner held at Pines Village in Valparaiso on Thursday. Pines Village residents Helen Wiese and Mike Walsh enjoy woodfired pizza from Tomato Bar at an outdoor dinner on Thursday evening at Pines Village in Valparaiso. Tomato Bar Pizza Cook Tyler Jacobs prepares to put a crumbled sausage pizza into the woodfire grill at an outdoor dinner on Thursday evening at Pines Village in Valparaiso. Gordon Food Service Culinary Specialist Bill Barker makes a cocktail for Pines Village residents at an outdoor dinner on Thursday evening in Valparaiso. Residents from Pines Village and Meridian Woods enjoyed dinner on the patio at a pizza event on Thursday evening at Pines Village in Valparaiso. Residents from Pines Village and Meridian Woods parked their walkers along the side walk on Thursday evening at Pines Village in Valparaiso to enjoy pizza and drinks. Pines Village is an independent, senior living facility in Valparaiso. A local organization looks to promote literacy while engaging with the community by providing door-to-door book deliveries to neighborhoods across Hammond. Book, Brushes & Bands for Education is a Hammond-based nonprofit that provides activities centered around literacy, and visual and musical arts for children. On Tuesday, eight volunteers from BBB4E participated in their second-to-last Book Brigade of the year. They met at Irving Elementary School to coordinate before setting off to the streets surrounding the school with their bright red wagons full of donated books. Since Sept. 12, volunteers have also delivered books weekly to homes around Harrison Park and Hammond Central High School. The group set off going to each house, knocking on doors. Many of the residents seemed interested in BBB4Es efforts. After a volunteer explained who they were and what they were doing, children enthusiastically picked out books, some of the kids grabbing a handful of literature. Adults also took advantage to pick out books for their kids, or themselves. I think its awesome, said Maria Homans, a resident who lives across the street from Irving Elementary. Thats giving kids an opportunity to free books and to read. Homans noted initiatives like the Book Brigade dont occur often in the neighborhood. According to Ian Brundige, BBB4Es communications and development manager, the group first started their book brigades in 2013. They partnered with local banks to collect childrens books to be distributed. In their first year, they collected and distributed around 3,000 books. Since its first year, the organization has received over 25,000 donated books. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the organization halted the door-to-door book distributions. The Book Brigades resumed this year. Stacey Burgess-Brundige, one of BBB4Es board members said these book distributions were important for the group because it helps them stay in touch with the neighborhood. And it gives people the opportunity to get more reading material, which promotes literacy, which improves the whole city, Burgess-Brundige said. Another board member, Christine Griggs, said promoting literacy and encouraging kids to read was critical to any community. Reading is the most...fundamental core skill that any child or individual can have because all other academics basically fall in behind that, she said. Brundige said the BBB4E is looking into partnering with a local organization next year to hold a book collection drive once again. He also said they are planning to expand their Book Brigades to other cities in Northwest Indiana, specifically Gary and East Chicago. BBB4E will hold their final Book Brigade of the year on Oct. 3, distributing books to homes around Harding Elementary School. PHOTOS: New sand volleyball courts in Hammond Ribbon cutting ceremony for new sand volleyball courts Ribbon cutting ceremony for new sand volleyball courts Ribbon cutting ceremony for new sand volleyball courts Ribbon cutting ceremony for new sand volleyball courts Ribbon cutting ceremony for new sand volleyball courts Ribbon cutting ceremony for new sand volleyball courts Ribbon cutting ceremony for new sand volleyball courts The Ports of Indiana have an annual economic impact of $8.7 billion, a new study concluded. Martin Associates of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, a maritime economic research firm, found the deepwater Port of Indiana-Burns Harbor on Lake Michigan generates an annual economic impact of $4.6 billion, the most in the state. The port in Porter County, which unloads international vessels called salties that pass from the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes via the St. Lawrence Seaway, supports an estimated 28,409 jobs and an annual payroll of $2.4 billion, the study found. It also generates $363 million in tax revenue every year. Indianapolis-based port authority the Ports of Indiana commissioned the study to determine the economic contributions of its ports at Burns Harbor, Jeffersonville and Mount Vernon. The study looked at domestic cargo, international freight, wages, taxes and the economic output of companies at the ports, such as all the steel service centers that operate out of the Ports of Indiana-Burns Harbor. Ports of Indiana is a truly unique port system that generates significant economic impacts throughout the region and beyond, said John Martin, founder of Martin Associates. Indiana leverages its connections to the nations two busiest waterways the Great Lakes and our river system with a statewide port authority that has tremendous economic development capabilities. The port system in Indiana supports an estimated 49,040 jobs, generates wages of $3.5 billion and contributes $526 million in taxes, about $213 million of which goes to local governments. Its gratifying to see the incredible economic return Ports of Indiana provides to the state, but our focus is always on building for the future, said Ports of Indiana CEO Jody Peacock. Our ports have hundreds of acres of available industrial sites with direct access to domestic and international markets via river barges, lakers, ocean vessels and all major Class I rail carriers. These logistics resources provide critical strategic advantages for Indianas agriculture, manufacturing and industrial sectors. An East Harlem apartment functioning as a state-licensed day care site was being used by the son of the sites operator to produce 3-D-printed ghost guns and parts for them, officials said on Wednesday. It was the second time this month that a lethal hazard had been found at a home-based day care in New York City. On Sept. 15, a 1-year-old boy died of suspected fentanyl poisoning at a Bronx apartment where the potent drug was discovered near nap mats and under the floor. There are roughly 7,000 such home-based sites in the five boroughs, and the city health department inspects them on the states behalf. Mayor Eric Adams said on Wednesday that his administration would review its inspection procedures in light of the alarming incidents. We are going to remain vigilant and stay ahead of bad people that are doing bad things in environments where our children are, Mr. Adams said at a news conference where he was joined by Alvin L. Bragg, the Manhattan district attorney; Edward A. Caban, the citys police commissioner; and other top police officials. On Sunday, Trump posted on Truth Social, claiming Comcast, MSNBCs owner, and others of the LameStream Media will be thoroughly scrutinized because they are THE ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE who should pay for what they have done to our once great Country. The people here means his people, the only worthy and legitimate people, the only ones worth defending because they are the only ones defending him. When he says our once great country, he means the country when it most benefited those most devoted to him, at a time when the racial hierarchy was more fixed, the patriarchy was more entrenched, immigrant communities were often whiter and gender identities were more rigid. Theres a reason Trump never attempted to govern as a unifier and isnt running for re-election as one. Instead, hes deepening his attachment with loyalists. He wants to reshape America into a nation where his will rules, the law is his tool to punish others and he is exempt from punishment where his throngs are rewarded for their adoration. It isnt as simple as saying that Trump wants to drag the country backward. He wants to do something far more destructive: He wants to marry the countrys more intolerant past to a more autocratic future. He wants to bend his brand of straight white male nationalism into a kind of totalitarianism. That his definition of the people is implicit, not overt, only helps him. The fact that there are women, people of color and L.G.B.T.Q. Americans who support him doesnt alter the fundamental nature of his appeal. And I believe that many of his most ardent followers understand this intuitively. They idolize Trump because his craven desire for power, and the protection from prosecution that he believes it will provide, would also offer them a ride on his coattails. Chinese hackers who gained access to the email accounts of Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and other government officials this year stole 60,000 emails from the State Department alone, according to two people familiar with a briefing Senate staff members received on the matter Wednesday. The emails came from 10 State Department email accounts, department officials told Senate staff members, according to the people familiar with the briefing, one of whom is a staff member for Senator Eric Schmitt, Republican of Missouri. Nine of the 10 email accounts belonged to people working on East Asian and Pacific affairs. The hack, which compromised Microsoft-based email accounts at the State and Commerce Departments, was first reported in July. At the time, neither U.S. government officials nor Microsoft executives would disclose how many email accounts they believed had been affected, nor how many emails the hackers had taken. The scope of the hack was reported earlier Wednesday by Reuters. Washington has not formally blamed China for the intrusion, but various U.S. officials including Ms. Raimondo have made the connection. Seeking to disqualify a judge is a challenging and precarious move one that, if it fails (which it often does), runs the risk of annoying the person granted the power to make critical decisions in the case. Mr. Trumps lawyers filed their recusal motion two weeks ago, after Judge Chutkan handed them a significant defeat by scheduling the trial for March, much earlier than they had requested, but before they had filed any substantive motions to attack the charges Mr. Trump is facing. A judges decision to remain on a case is generally not subject to an immediate appeal though Mr. Trumps lawyers could in theory try. Judge Chutkans ruling not to disqualify herself came as she considers a potentially significant development in the case: whether to grant the governments request to impose a gag order on Mr. Trumps public statements about the case. In asking Judge Chutkan to step aside, Mr. Trumps lawyers cited statements she had made about the former president at hearings for two defendants facing sentencing for crimes they committed on Jan. 6. At one of the hearings, in October 2022, Judge Chutkan told the defendant, Christine Priola, a former occupational therapist in the Cleveland school system, that the people who mobbed the Capitol that day showed blind loyalty to one person who, by the way, remains free to this day. At the other hearing, in December 2021, Judge Chutkan told Robert Palmer, a Florida man who had hurled a fire extinguisher at police officers, that the people who exhorted you and encouraged you and rallied you to go and take action and to fight have not been charged. In the latter part of Michael Gambons long and storied acting career, some of the most animated analyses of his performances could be found not in theater or film reviews, but in forums for the Harry Potter fandom, where dedicated Hogwarts obsessives would dissect his every onscreen utterance as the wizard Albus Dumbledore. It wasnt originally his role. Richard Harris, the eminent actor who was originally cast, died after filming the second Harry Potter movie. Gambon took over in 2003, joining the ranks of great British actors with popular late-career turns as wizards, a lineage that includes Alec Guinness (as the wizard-like Jedi Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars) and Ian McKellen (as Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings films). Several other well-known actors were initially considered to succeed Harris in the role, including McKellen, who demurred, and Peter O'Toole, who turned it down because of his long, close friendship with Harris. In the end the choice was Gambon, who died Wednesday. He made the role his own, donning the long silver beard and half-moon spectacles and speaking in his unmistakable rich baritone voice, a stark contrast to Harriss hoarser, more wizened readings as the headmaster of the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Another collaborator, though, the trombonist Peter Zummo, said Russell could be obstinate about not making more of a living off his art. One time he came to me, and he said, The ideal record would be one, a press of one, Zummo recalled. Which would make it a work of art. He had standards, but there was also a stubbornness. Russell has long been known for bits of his catalog, including the album 2424 Music (for which he enlisted friends like Zummo, Julius Eastman and Peter Gordon) and the disco song Is It All Over My Face. But his music, with its wide stylistic range, has taken on new life in the decades after his death as the recordings he left behind have been released this century. I love seeing how people really latch onto it, Van Tieghem said. I have students at the New School who are huge fans. People have only recently come across his stuff and just love it. Among Russells longtime admirers is Hallett, 49, who came of age in clubs and looked to him as an artist who bridged the gap between disco, experimental and songs. Hallett eventually met people from Russells circle, including Van Tieghem and Zummo, as well as younger musicians who were interested in preserving Russells legacy. Over the years, City Park lingered in Halletts mind like a faint question mark, he said. Every new description of it intrigued me in a new way. So, when the opportunity arose to reconstruct and revive the piece, he seized it. When I interviewed the terrific French conductor Raphael Pichon toward the end of last year, he commented that all the most extraordinary pieces of music are first a drama. Listen to this truly excellent account of Monteverdis Vespers, and you can certainly believe it. There is a sense of religious devotion to be heard here, as of course there should be, but what is so powerful is the expressive urgency that Pichon, his soloists and his Pygmalion ensemble so fervently bring to the music. If period performance still aims, as it always has, to restore the shock of the old for the ears of today, then this is period performance at close to its very best. That is particularly true of the choral singing, which the vocalists of Pygmalion deliver with an intensity and detailing that is reminiscent of John Eliot Gardiners Monteverdi Choir, even if Pichon lets more of a spirit of freedom shine through. Listen to the overwhelming effusion of their joy as they come to the Gloria at the end of Laetatus sum, for example, or the first bars of Laudate Pueri, which are fastidiously precise in every way, yet not at all fussy. The last verse of that ancient hymn, Ave Maris Stella, might seem oddly simple amid all of Monteverdis virtuosic invention in this work; Pygmalion make it utterly transporting. DAVID ALLEN Stillpoint Awadagin Pratt; A Far Cry; Roomful of Teeth (New Amsterdam) A poet, a pianist, a would-be painter: Our recommended books this week include several novels that feature artistic heroes (or antiheroes), along with a nonfiction study of classical music after the Holocaust that considers the at-times tenuous links between art and life. We also recommend a history of the pocket calculator, a tribute to life on the rugged Irish island Skellig Michael, and new novels from Hilary Leichter, Karl Ove Knausgaard and Emily Habeck. Happy reading. Gregory Cowles THE WREN, THE WREN Anne Enright This exquisite novel, a family trauma story that is often very funny, follows a famous Irish poet, his 50-something daughter and her adult daughter as their disappointments pile up. We see how the women have grown up around their charismatic patriarch like sun-starved plants under a giant tree. China targets Evergrandes executives Two former executives at China Evergrande, the worlds most debt-saddled real estate developer, have been detained and the companys billionaire chairman is under police surveillance, fueling fears of a deepening real estate crisis. Just a few weeks ago, Evergrande was writing its next chapter and working to resolve disputes with its creditors following its collapse two years ago. Now the pages have been torn up. The fast-moving events have added to mounting pressure for policymakers in Beijing who are trying to address Chinas property crisis. Investors sold off their shares in Evergrande, sending its already depressed stock down more than 40 percent over the past week. Evergrande suspended trading yesterday in its three publicly traded companies in Hong Kong. Context: The turmoil at Evergrande and other developers has exposed deeper problems within the Chinese financial system, which has long accommodated unrestrained borrowing, unchecked expansion and, often, corruption. Yet even as regulators have tightened the rules and tried to force companies to behave, Evergrande continues to stand out for poor corporate governance. Environmental activists are trying to block the listing. Last month, Rainforest Action Network, Mighty Earth and World Animal Protection sent letters to the Securities and Exchange Commission detailing what they say is the companys shoddy environmental record and a litany of dubious corporate governance practices. This evidence all points to a company which has no real plan to decarbonize and is highly selective about what it discloses to mislead investors that the company can continue to grow in an industry where business-as-usual practices will not cut it, wrote Glenn Hurowitz, the chief executive of Mighty Earth. JBS is working hard to persuade the public, and potential investors, that it is a good corporate citizen. And last week, I interviewed the JBS global chief, executive Gilberto Tomazoni, at the Climate Forward live event in New York. Over the course of 30 minutes, I asked him about JBSs emissions, the public listing, the criticism from activists and more, while Tomazoni defended the companys record. Strategic information Researchers say that as much as 90 percent of deforestation in the Amazon rainforest is linked to the cattle industry. Tropical deforestation for meat production is a double whammy for the climate, replacing biodiverse carbon sinks with clear-cut land full of methane-belching bovines. JBS is one of the biggest consumers of cattle raised on newly deforested land. In 2021, an audit led by prosecutors in the Brazilian state of Para, home to the second-largest cattle herd in the Amazon, found that JBS had bought 301,000 animals, amounting to 32 percent of its purchases in the state, between January 2018 and June 2019 from farms that had violated commitments to prevent illegal deforestation. Times Insider explains who we are and what we do and delivers behind-the-scenes insights into how our journalism comes together. In June, Jesse McKinley was driving through the Finger Lakes region of New York when a foul, sweet-smelling odor suddenly filled his car (and his nostrils). As he continued driving along the highway, the source of the rancid smell became apparent in the distance: a 350-acre landfill known as Seneca Meadows. Curious, Mr. McKinley began researching the landfill and learned that it was at the center of a heated debate. Seneca Meadows is the largest landfill of its kind in New York, accepting trash from across the state. Filled with decades worth of deteriorating refuse, the landfill rises to nearly 300 feet roughly as tall as the Statue of Liberty. Residents who live around Seneca Meadows have long complained about the odor and the environmental dangers it poses, like the potential for groundwater contamination. In 2016, to the delight of many residents, local leaders voted to close the landfill at the end of 2025. But last year, Waste Connections, the owner of the landfill, indicated its plans to add more trash to a 47-acre valley within the landfill, a project that could last through 2040. The word griot has appeared in 25 articles on NYTimes.com in the past year, including on June 2 in For Her New Play, Tori Sampson Revisited Her Black Power Household by Naveen Kumar: The narrator of This Land Was Made, the playwright Tori Sampsons speculative account of the Black Panther Partys powder-keg origins, is an aspiring writer named Sassy. Consider me your time-traveling griot, she tells the audience with wry buoyancy, evoking the West African tradition of storytellers who propagated endangered legacies. The play, which opens on Sunday at the Vineyard Theater in Manhattan, is an act of oral history rooted in Sampsons personal connection to the political awakening at its center. Sassy is not me, Sampson made clear during a recent interview off the courtyard of the Marlton Hotel, a short walk from the theater. Daily Word Challenge Can you correctly use the word griot in a sentence? Based on the definition and example provided, write a sentence using todays Word of the Day and share it as a comment on this article. It is most important that your sentence makes sense and demonstrates that you understand the words definition, but we also encourage you to be creative and have fun. Then, read some of the other sentences students have submitted and use the Recommend button to vote for two original sentences that stand out to you. If you want a better idea of how griot can be used in a sentence, read these usage examples on Vocabulary.com. My daughter, currently a junior in high school, is doing well and is ambitious about getting into a good college. She has really only heard about the big names, though, and it seems possible that many smaller, less competitive colleges might be a better fit. I recently signed with a college-consultant company, at a cost of a few thousand dollars, to help us navigate the application process. My daughter is uncomfortable with this and feels that it gives her an unfair advantage other kids dont have; she says she wants to apply on her own merit. But many kids are using these services, perhaps even more exclusive ones, and some people have an advantage because of personal connections. Also, from what I hear, the college-application process can be overwhelming. Is it wrong to utilize these services if many other people cant afford them? Name Withheld From the Ethicist: People often forget that most colleges admit most applicants, but its notoriously the case that at certain institutions the admissions process has grown crazily competitive. Resume-building now begins in kindergarten. Affluent parents are in a position to provide a rich learning environment for their children, exposing them to books and expensive cultural experiences, like international trips; then they may send them to private schools or get them tutors over the vacations. They may encourage them to take up certain sports, like lacrosse or fencing, that are played in college but not in many public schools (what if the college needs a lacrosse midfielder?); to play musical instruments (what if the universitys marching band is looking for a saxophonist?); to participate in community service (wont they want a kid with a conscience?). Some of this is just good parenting; some of it is mere gamesmanship. Either way, the benefits of the better-off tend to build on themselves, contributing to what Daniel Markovits, in The Meritocracy Trap, calls snowball inequality. Your daughters concern about fairness is commendable. Yet shes already and irrevocably the beneficiary of her background. That happened when you took her primary and secondary education in hand and gave her a bunch of middle-class advantages. If the issue is that youve been born on a high floor, declining to wear heels isnt the best response. What complicates matters is that, as a parent, you are not only entitled to favor your own children but within certain bounds are morally required to do so. As a citizen, meanwhile, you ought to keep the pressure on to make our educational system fairer. And many highly selective institutions are, however belatedly, taking measures to broaden the socioeconomic makeup of their student body. (About a fifth of the students in the incoming classes at Harvard, Yale and Princeton are the first in their families to attend college; a fifth are Pell Grant-eligible, meaning they come from low-income households.) A concern for fairness shouldnt mean leaving your child less prepared; it should mean ensuring that more children are more prepared. Leveling up, not leveling down, is the aim. The debut feature from the Iranian director Asghar Farhadi, Dancing in the Dust never received a proper release in the United States. Now, 20 years after it was first shown, it is surfacing in a remastered version on streaming platforms. Two of Farhadis subsequent features (A Separation and The Salesman) won the Oscar for what was then called the best foreign language film, and he has become a reliable, methodical specialist in a certain brand of domestic drama. In Farhadi films, right and wrong are never clear-cut, and the suspense is intertwined with mounting moral complexities. The opening scenes of Dancing in the Dust find the filmmaker already operating in his signature mode. Nazar (Yousef Khodaparast) loves his wife, Reyhane (Baran Kosari), but salacious rumors about her mother which Reyhane wont confirm lead him reluctantly to seek a divorce that neither wants. Reyhane wont agree to forget her mother, and Nazar cant disobey his parents, even if a divorce might ruin his wifes life. Regardless, Nazar doesnt have the money he is supposed to pay her, and he has also defaulted on a loan for the marriage. To avoid arrest, he runs away, hiding in the van of a cantankerous snake catcher (Faramarz Gharibian), who sets upon him once they are in the desert. At this point, Dancing in the Dust becomes something less familiar from Farhadi, but familiar from other movies: a two-hander with temperamentally opposed men one who wont stop talking and one who rarely speaks in a hostile environment where abandonment could mean death. How the pair resolve their impasse does not offer any major surprises, but Dancing in the Dust shows Farhadis early confidence with using framing and cutting to create tension and parallels skills that would serve him later. Dancing in the Dust Not rated. In Persian, with subtitles. Running time: 1 hour 40 minutes. Rent or buy on most major platforms. Before it even arrived in movie theaters, Green Border, a film about the grim fate of migrants stuck at the Polish-Belarusian border, stirred up a storm in Poland, as the country gears up for a national election. Directed by Agnieszka Holland, the movie won the special jury prize at the Venice Film Festival earlier this month, and was praised by international critics when it played shortly afterward at the Toronto Film Festival. But it didnt please government officials in Poland, who called the film anti-Polish. A state-owned broadcaster used a prime-time news segment to slam its director. Some border guards likened the movies viewers to Poles who watched Nazi propaganda films during World War II. The feature, which was released in Poland on Friday, has touched a raw nerve in a country, with a painful history of its own, that was already on edge because of the war in neighboring Ukraine. The governing Law and Justice party is expected to face a tough battle in the election on Oct. 15, and to whip up support it has boosted the image of a nation threatened by migrants and the war raging next door. Mia is alone. Her solitude becomes absolute when a storm knocks her container into the ocean. Bullet holes and dubious physics prevent the container from filling with water completely, and Mia is left to drift at sea, responsible for her survival and the survival of her soon-to-be-born child. As directed by Albert Pinto, Nowhere is a spectacle of fortune and disaster, good luck and bad breaks. There are some small innovations that strike clever notes Mia manages to build flotation contraptions from Tupperware and make skylights using power drills. But its hard to care about Mias efforts to survive when coincidence drives the plot, and the production looks and feels cheap. Theres just one set, a few props and an admirably committed performance from a waterlogged Castillo, who keeps this flimsy vessel afloat. Nowhere Not rated. In Spanish, with subtitles. Running time: 1 hour 49 minutes. Watch on Netflix. Its been a tough year for artificial intelligence. First, industry leaders warn that A.I. poses an extinction-level threat to humanity. Then, screenwriters and actors warn roughly the same thing about artists losing their livelihoods (and art losing its soul). And lets not forget predictions of vast unemployment and upheaval. Whats a superintelligent, terrifyingly autonomous technology got to do to get back on peoples good sides? One answer comes in the whirlwind form of The Creator, the latest film directed by Gareth Edwards (Rogue One, Godzilla). Weve grown accustomed to A.I. playing the role of helper-turned-villain in movies, and here a rapid newsreel-style prologue sets a familiar stage: Robots were invented, did increasingly complex tasks, and then went nuclear (devastating, in this case, Los Angeles). Now the United States is bent on eliminating their threat, while in East Asian countries (dubbed New Asia), bots live at peace with humans. Humanlike robots with Roomba-like heads are police officers, workers, even (somewhat jarringly) saffron-robed monks. One thing stays the same in the future: The movies need a hero. John David Washington plays the reluctant man for the job, Joshua, an ex-undercover soldier who dropped out of sight after a messy raid separated him from his pregnant wife, Maya (Gemma Chan). He is recruited for a U.S. military mission, led by Allison Janney as a no-nonsense colonel, to neutralize a top-secret weapon in New Asia. After a macho fly-in that lightly evokes Vietnam War movies (but with a Radiohead soundtrack), he infiltrates an underground lab only to find a mysterious weapon: an A.I. with the human form of a fairly unflappable 6-year-old girl. Joshua decides to take her on the lam, naming her Alphie (Madeleine Yuna Voyles). A judge on Thursday said New York City regulators could move forward and raise minimum wages for app-based food delivery workers, ruling against three delivery giants that had challenged the rule. The new minimum pay law, aimed at forcing tech companies to better compensate gig workers, will require the platforms to pay the workers about $18 per hour at first, starting in October, and to increase that amount to $20 per hour by 2025. Delivery workers currently make about $11 an hour on average, according the citys estimate. The increase was supposed to begin in July, nearly two years after the City Council passed a landmark set of bills meant to improve working conditions for the couriers. But days before the raise was set to go into effect, the three companies, Uber, DoorDash and Grubhub, filed requests for temporary restraining orders in State Supreme Court in Manhattan to block it. Relay, a smaller, New York-based food delivery platform, did the same. The judge, Nicholas Moyne, paused the change while he deliberated. It was also timely because Banned Books Week begins on Sunday. All three library systems in the city have designated Wednesday as Freedom to Read Digital Day of Action and will encourage people to post images of their favorite books online. Beyond that, the New York Public Library, with branches in Manhattan and the Bronx and on Staten Island, will begin a campaign called Books for All that will run through June. The library says it will be the longest anti-censorship effort in its 128 years and will include a teen banned book club with unlimited access to some young adult titles that have been challenged or banned. We know that stories are powerful and can shape our lives, said Anthony Marx, the president of the New York Public Library, but unlike advocates of book banning, we believe thats a good thing and that free people have the right to choose for themselves. The Brooklyn Public Library, which last year began Books Unbanned to reach readers in places where restrictions might force books off library shelves and out of classrooms, is starting a podcast called Borrowed and Banned. In seven episodes, it will address the ideological wars Americans are having with their bookshelves, the library says. The Queens Public Library will post decals that say All Books Are Welcome Here at library entrances and has scheduled online talks with Samira Ahmed and Phil Blinder, two authors whose books have been challenged or banned. After the U.S. attorney in Manhattan announced corruption charges last Friday against Senator Robert Menendez of New Jersey, the veteran Democratic lawmaker lashed back, calling the claims false and saying prosecutors had misrepresented the normal work of a congressional office. Mr. Menendez has said a lot more in recent days about the indictment, but his assertion last week offered a clue to the defense he may invoke, if his case goes to trial, one that other public officials facing corruption charges have used successfully. In a series of key rulings since 2010, the U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly narrowed the legal definition of corruption, leading to overturned convictions of prominent politicians in New York and elsewhere. In 2016, in throwing out the conviction of Bob McDonnell, a former Republican governor of Virginia, the court said a quid-pro-quo scheme had to encompass more than routine courtesies like arranging meetings the normal work Mr. Menendez invoked. A New York real estate broker was sentenced to nine months of house arrest this week for paying a former shelter operator hundreds of thousands of dollars in a yearslong bribery scheme to profit from city funding meant for homeless people. The broker, Sheina Levin, 61, owned a real estate company in Brooklyn. As the ranks of homeless people swelled in the city in recent years and the need for shelters grew more urgent, she paid a prominent shelter operator, Victor Rivera, more than $830,000 in kickbacks so his organization would lease property she controlled, federal prosecutors said. Mr. Rivera, the former chief executive of the Bronx Parent Housing Network, pleaded guilty last year to federal crimes related to the bribery scheme and was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison. Mr. Riveras financial entanglements with Ms. Levin, as well as wide-ranging accusations of sexual assault and harassment against him, were first revealed in a New York Times investigation in 2021. Ms. Levin was sentenced on Wednesday after pleading guilty in March to one count of conspiracy to commit honest services wire fraud for her role in the pay-to-play scheme, which stretched from 2019 to 2021. The 18th-century French writing desk that once belonged to Ulrich von Hassell, a German diplomat executed on the orders of Adolf Hitler, had sat for 12 years in a self-storage unit in Queens. The desk had been passed down five generations in all, through Mr. von Hassell and eventually to Christian Agostino von Hassell, his American grandson, who had stowed it with hundreds of other heirlooms, some dating back centuries. They were tucked away with, among other things, roughly a dozen oil paintings of ancestors; an armoire, wall sconces and Persian rugs; and samurai armor from Japan, gifts that Mr. von Hassell received during his service in the U.S. Marine Corps. There were at least 1,000 books, most leather-bound and embossed with the von Hassell coat of arms. Many were from Mr. von Hassells great-grandfather, Admiral Alfred von Tirpitz, who led the German Navy under Emperor Wilhelm II during World War I. The desk worth $39,000, but invaluable in emotional and historical significance was stored with the other items in a unit at Extra Space Storage, a facility on Wyckoff Avenue in Ridgewood, Queens, across from the Bubble House Laundromat. To understand the fight and the impact it may have on our shared future, look past the immediate claims and actions of the players to the greater implications of their points of view. When you do, youll realize this isnt really a debate only about A.I. Its also a contest about control and power, about how resources should be distributed and who should be held accountable. Beneath this roiling discord is a true fight over the future of society. Should we focus on avoiding the dystopia of mass unemployment, a world where China is the dominant superpower or a society where the worst prejudices of humanity are embodied in opaque algorithms that control our lives? Should we listen to wealthy futurists who discount the importance of climate change because theyre already thinking ahead to colonies on Mars? It is critical that we begin to recognize the ideologies driving what we are being told. Resolving the fracas requires us to see through the specter of A.I. to stay true to the humanity of our values. One way to decode the motives behind the various declarations is through their language. Because language itself is part of their battleground, the different A.I. camps tend not to use the same words to describe their positions. One faction describes the dangers posed by A.I. through the framework of safety, another through ethics or integrity, yet another through security and others through economics. By decoding who is speaking and how A.I. is being described, we can explore where these groups differ and what drives their views. The Doomsayers The loudest perspective is a frightening, dystopian vision in which A.I. poses an existential risk to humankind, capable of wiping out all life on Earth. A.I., in this vision, emerges as a godlike, superintelligent, ungovernable entity capable of controlling everything. A.I. could destroy humanity or pose a risk on par with nukes. If were not careful, it could kill everyone or enslave humanity. Its likened to monsters like the Lovecraftian shoggoths, artificial servants that rebelled against their creators, or paper clip maximizers that consume all of Earths resources in a single-minded pursuit of their programmed goal. It sounds like science fiction, but these people are serious, and they mean the words they use. These are the A.I. safety people, and their ranks include the Godfathers of A.I., Geoff Hinton and Yoshua Bengio. For many years, these leading lights battled critics who doubted that a computer could ever mimic capabilities of the human mind. Having steamrollered the public conversation by creating large language models like ChatGPT and other A.I. tools capable of increasingly impressive feats, they appear deeply invested in the idea that there is no limit to what their creations will be able to accomplish. I havent seen my father, Jimmy Lai, in three years. The most recent pictures that have emerged show him surrounded by guards in a Hong Kong prison courtyard during his 50 minutes of daily exercise. He looks thinner, his skin darker. But this will not be the enduring image of him that I carry. In my memory, Dad is sitting at the breakfast table reading Apple Daily, the rowdy Chinese-language newspaper he founded and published. For 26 years, his paper championed Hong Kongers fight for democracy. Then, suddenly, it was all over: Beijing tightened its grip, my father was arrested in 2020, and the paper was shut down the next year. I fear that I may never see him again. At 75, my father faces trial under charges related to the national security law that Beijing passed in 2020 to crush Hong Kongs struggle for freedom. His day in court has been repeatedly delayed, and many fear any trial will be a sham. He may spend the rest of his life behind bars. I believe the charges are designed to discredit him as a leading voice critical of the Chinese Communist Party. But every day he sits in prison is proof of his commitment to the fight for democracy. Its no exaggeration to say that a majority of voters are not eager for another contest between Joe Biden and Donald Trump. Who else would you like to see in the race besides all the announced candidates in both parties? Make your best argument for that choice. Submissions should be no more than 200 words. The deadline is Monday, Oct. 2, at 10 a.m., Eastern time. Email: letters@nytimes.com Please include your name, city, state and contact information, and put candidate in the subject line. When Pope Francis anoints 21 new princes of the Roman Catholic Church on Saturday, he will seem to have consolidated his grip on the powerful College of Cardinals and on the direction of the church, possibly for decades to come. With that consistory, as the ceremony is called, the Argentine pontiff will have appointed 99 of the 137 churchmen who are eligible to elect his successor at least as long as they remain under 80 years old, the maximum voting age per church rules. A candidate needs only two-thirds of the vote to win. As a result, many observers say Francis has shaped the college to elect a new Bergoglio, to use the popes family name: a socially liberal Latin American cleric who would keep the leadership of roughly 1.3 billion Catholics on a path of inclusiveness, doctrinal openness and non-Western leadership. But that is a hazardous prediction. History shows the Catholic Church follows strange dynamics when it is called to select the successor of St. Peter inside the Sistine Chapel. Donald Trump wont be defeated with sound bites. He wont be bested with wordplay. Ron DeSantis carped repeatedly that Trump was missing in action at the Republican presidential debate on Wednesday night, while Chris Christie called Trump a coward and christened him Donald Duck. How very clever. And how totally futile. They were throwing darts at the absent front-runner when missiles are in order. Trump has a mammoth lead over all of them, and theres no sign that its shrinking. Hes skating to the partys presidential nomination. Along the way, hes doing quadruple axels of madness, triple toe loops of provocation. Hes fantasizing about executing a respected general, and hes fetishizing firearms, his words coming close to incitements of violence. Hes not sorry for the Jan. 6 riots. To my ears, hed like more of where that came from. But did any of the seven candidates onstage at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif., talk about that? Nope. Mike Pence criticized Trump for wanting to consolidate too much power in Washington, D.C. DeSantis argued that Trump, if elected president again, could serve only one term, while DeSantis, who would be a newcomer to the White House, could serve two. And from Proceedings, a publication of the U.S. Naval Institute: Sympathy has to do with sharing emotions but is still focused on the individual who is sympathizing, rather than truly seeking to understand anothers perspective. Spare us your sympathy, in other words. But what did sympathy do to deserve this treatment? And what makes empathy so superior? Etymologically speaking, sympathy was here first. In use since the 16th century, when the Greek syn- (with) combined with pathos (experience, misfortune, emotion, condition) to mean having common feelings, sympathy preceded empathy by a good four centuries. Empathy (the em means into) barged in from the German in the 20th century and gained popularity through its usage in fields like philosophy, aesthetics and psychology. According to my benighted 1989 edition of Websters Unabridged, empathy was the more self-centered emotion, the intellectual identification with or vicarious experiencing of the feelings, thoughts or attitudes of another. But in more updated lexicons, its as if the two words had reversed. Sympathy now implies a hierarchy whereas empathy is the more egalitarian sentiment. Empathy, per Dictionary.com, is the psychological identification with or vicarious experiencing of the emotions, thoughts or attitudes of another while sympathy stands at a haughty, you poor dear remove: the act or state of feeling sorrow or compassion for another. No wonder, one educator said to me that he was told in a recent diversity, equity and inclusion training program that sympathy counts for nothing. Sympathy, the sessions leader explained to school staff members, was seeing someone in a hole and saying, Too bad youre in a hole, whereas empathy meant getting in the hole, too. Perhaps you have heard about this hole. Brene Brown, the best-selling author, may be the one who popularized the hole metaphor, which makes a moral distinction between sympathy and empathy. Empathy is a choice and its a vulnerable choice because in order to connect with you, I have to connect with something in myself that knows that feeling, she says in a YouTube video. Urgent measures are continuing to resolve social, humanitarian, economic and infrastructure issues in the Garabagh economic region of Azerbaijan and meet the needs of the Armenian minority living there, Azernews reports, citing the Presidential Administration. The Administration said that a vehicle loaded with 32 tons of gasoline was dispatched via the Aghdam-Asgaran-Khankendi road to satisfy the needs of kindergartens, emergency medical and firefighting services for combustive and lubricating materials. The Administration added that the forces of the State Fire Protection Service of Azerbaijan's Emergency Ministry sent to the area on September 26, 2023, have extinguished, within short span of time, the fire, which occurred at the reserve tanks site of the filling station located near the city of Khankendi. Due to the incident, the Ministry of Emergencies dispatched 10 more special vehicles with 50-strong personnel on September 27 through the Aghdam-Asgaran-Khankendi road to take rescue and other necessary measures, and relevant work is already being carried out by them. Though it was lost in the four-year cyclone that was the presidency of Donald Trump, one of his most immoral acts was to pardon soldiers who were accused of committing war crimes by killing unarmed civilians or prisoners. Military leaders, including his own defense secretary and the secretary of the Army, objected, saying it would undermine good order and discipline. Lawlessness can easily beget lawlessness. But the American system is ill prepared to deter leaders bent on undermining the rule of law. Checks and balances spread powers across the government, but that isnt enough to temper or stop bad-faith actors looking to subvert the law. According to a new article in The Atlantic, Gen. Mark Milley, upon becoming the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in 2019, found himself in a disconcerting situation: trying, and failing, to teach President Trump the difference between appropriate battlefield aggressiveness on the one hand, and war crimes on the other. Mr. Trump, as General Milley discovered and many Americans already knew, is a man unencumbered by any moral compass. He goes the way he wants to go, legalities and niceties be damned. Last week in a post on his social network, Mr. Trump argued that General Milleys actions would have once been punishable by death. Most Americans probably didnt notice his screed. Of those who did and were not alarmed, far too many nodded along in agreement. As Josh Barro said in a Times Opinion round table this week about the former presidents recent comments, Trump is and has been unhinged, and thats priced in to the views that many voters have of him. On a typical weekend in the spring, summer and early fall, Marthas Vineyard transforms into a wedding haven, with tall white tents dotting green lawns and rolling farm fields that often overlook the scenic shoreline. Situated off the coast of southeastern Massachusetts, the Vineyard has become a popular destination for couples seeking a scenic seaside escape for their nuptials. The Vineyards economy runs largely on tourism and the wedding industry is big business. In its most recent report, Island Weddings Magazine noted that in 2018 42 percent of the weddings hosted on the Vineyard exceeded $75,000, and 2 percent of them cost more than $200,000. (Nationwide, wedding costs averaged $24,723 in 2018, according to the Wedding Report; they reached $30,000 last year, according to the Knot.) Jim Eddy, the owner of Big Sky Tent and Party Rentals in Edgartown, estimates that they work on 10 to 20 weddings each weekend during June and September, the busiest months for weddings on the island. He estimates that there are about 30 weddings happening on the island each weekend in those months. No one can say exactly how many weddings are held on the island each year. Couples arent required to get a marriage license in the town where they wed (though they must apply within the state). Its through incidental knowledge that we hear about all these weddings going on, said Carolina Cooney, the executive director of the Marthas Vineyard Chamber of Commerce. The State Department accused China on Thursday of using deceptive and coercive methods to shape the global information environment, by acquiring stakes in foreign newspapers and television networks, using major social media platforms to promote its views and exerting pressure on international organizations and media outlets to silence critics of Beijing. The accusations, detailed in a report by the departments Global Engagement Center, reflect worry in Washington that Chinas information operations pose a growing security challenge to the United States and to democratic principles around the world by promoting digital authoritarianism. China not only pushes its own propaganda, the report said, but exports digital surveillance tools to police information and people online. Although many of the tactics detailed are not new, the report warned that they could lead nations to make decisions that subordinate their economic and security interests to Beijing. Every country has the right and every right to tell its story to the world, but a nations narrative should be facts, and it should rise or fall on its own merits, James P. Rubin, the coordinator of the Global Engagement Center, said at a briefing. Referring to the Peoples Republic of China, he went on: By contrast, the P.R.C. advances coercive techniques and increasingly outright lies. In November 2020, executives at Huawei, the Chinese telecom-equipment maker, exchanged messages about holding a meeting with a friend and an adviser in Greece. The contacts, identified as Greek government advisers, were set to provide Huawei with something valuable: a document outlining government contracts and first priority projects that the company might want to work on in the country. Huawei managers discussed giving the advisers a Huawei Mate XS smartphone, the companys GT 2 smartwatch and wine, according to internal text messages and other documents reviewed by The New York Times. The plans are strictly confidential among us, a Huawei manager wrote in a group chat named after Greeces digital ministry. The exchange was part of more than 120 messages and summaries of internal Huawei communications provided to The Times by a person working for a European government that investigated the company. The materials, which identified the contacts as government officials, offer a rare look at how Huawei tried to cultivate relationships with high-ranking figures in Greece, a small but important country for the company, and pushed the limits of Greek rules that restrict gifts to civil servants and government ministers. Since founding OpenAI in 2015, Sam Altman has spent many days thinking that the companys generative artificial-intelligence products need a new kind of device to succeed. Since leaving Apple in 2019, Jony Ive, the designer behind the iPhone, iPod and MacBook Air, has been considering what the next great computing device could be. Now, the two men and their companies are teaming up to develop a device that would succeed the smartphone and deliver the benefits of A.I. in a new form factor, unconstrained by the rectangular screen that has been the dominant computing tool of the past decade, according to two people familiar with the discussions. The project was described as preliminary, but Mr. Altman and Mr. Ive have developed some early concepts and sought as much as $1 billion in funding from SoftBank, the Japanese technology investor led by Masayoshi Son, the people said. With SoftBanks support, the two men could tap into the semiconductor expertise of Arm, the British chip design company Mr. Son bought in 2016 and recently went public. Thomas Schumacher, the longtime head of Disneys theatrical arm, a key force behind The Lion King, and one of the most powerful people on Broadway, is relinquishing his role overseeing the divisions business operations and stepping into a purely creative role. Schumacher, who is 65 and currently holds the titles of president and producer of Disney Theatrical Group, told his staff on Thursday morning that he will take on a new role as the divisions chief creative officer. His two closest deputies, Andrew Flatt and Anne Quart, will now jointly run the unit as executive vice presidents. Disney has for three decades been the biggest corporate player on Broadway, and it remains an enormously significant factor in the industry. The Lion King, which has been running on Broadway for 25 years, regularly outsells its competitors last week it was, as it often has been, the top-grossing show. Schumachers portfolio has included not only Disneys Broadway shows The Lion King and Aladdin at the moment but also its many touring productions as well as Disney on Ice. His first Broadway credit was in 1997 (as a producer of Disneys King David) and he has since become an important figure in the Broadway community, at one point serving as chairman of the Broadway League, which is the trade organization of producers and theater owners. July turned out to be the planets hottest month on record, while the period from June to August was the Northern Hemispheres hottest-ever summer. As temperatures soared, parts of Western Europe slogged through long-running drought conditions, while places from Vermont to Brazil to the Himalayas were inundated with floods or landslides. And then there were the wildfires in Maui, Texas and Canada, as well as in France, Portugal, the Canary Islands and Greece. It was a summer of extremes, and a summer of lessons for the travelers and locals who encountered them. Looking ahead, here are some lessons from the climate change upheavals of the past few months. One thing is clear: Unpredictability is the new normal. 1. Look for new ways to keep cool in cities The worlds cities were on the front lines this summer, and many are trying to get out in front of the weather. In Athens, where temperatures spiked to 104 degrees in July, authorities closed the Acropolis in the middle of the day; they also installed shades to offer protection from the sun. In August, authorities at the Colosseum in Rome began offering early-morning tickets, allowing visitors accompanied by an official tour guide to enter as early as 7:30 a.m. And in Paris, Berlin and Washington, D.C., some pools and parks were kept open until as late as midnight during heat waves. The organizers of next summers Olympic Games in Paris are planning ahead to beat the heat. The nearly 40-year-old Bercy Arena, site of the gymnastics competitions, is getting air conditioning which is relatively uncommon in Paris and many other European cities while the glass-roofed Grand Palais will be equipped with temporary air conditioning, as well as a huge shade. At outdoor sites, visitors can expect to find shelters, beverage stations and misting zones. Melissa Hill has gotten used to the transformed view outside the restaurant where she tends bar in Fort Myers Beach: the concrete slabs where bustling businesses once stood, the bald fishing pier pilings, the elevator shaft that is the only, eerie remnant of a two-story shop. What she cannot get used to is how her friends have scattered, their workplaces gone, their homes beyond repair or rents now out of reach. Wed just sit on the beach and talk about our day, she said, reminiscing about life before Sept. 28, 2022. The beach was like everybodys couch. It has been a year since Hurricane Ian roared across Fort Myers Beach, submerging the barrier island town under nearly 14 feet of storm surge that destroyed or damaged virtually all of its 3,200 buildings. The ferocious storm, which killed 150 people in Florida, most of them by drowning, ravaged communities along the states Gulf Coast, none worse than Fort Myers Beach. Im not in a position to tell him what he should do, but I hope he does, Mr. Fetterman said. And I hope the rest of our caucus and the Republicans join the rest of us that have already made the right call. Any senator can file a resolution to expel a member of the body, but two-thirds of the Senate 67 votes is required to eject any member. In the history of the Senate, the maneuver has only been used to oust 15 senators, almost all of them during the Civil War for supporting the Confederate rebellion. No senator has been expelled since 1862, though some facing the threat of expulsion have resigned. Thus far, it does not appear there would be enough votes in the Senate to support a measure to oust him. Republicans have either demurred in their opinions about Mr. Menendezs tenure or said that his fate is a matter for the voters of New Jersey to decide. Some influential Democrats have also refused to condemn him. Basically the whole theme of everything was, every American is innocent until proven guilty, give him the benefit of the doubt, let him defend himself, Senator Joe Manchin III, Democrat of West Virginia, told reporters after Mr. Menendezs address. Mr. Manchin is among the Democrats who have declined to join the chorus of those calling on him to step down. Mr. Schumer, who also has not called on Mr. Menendez to resign, did not comment on his speech during the gathering, Mr. Manchin told reporters. While Mr. Menendez invited his colleagues to ask questions, none did. A Texas man pleaded guilty to federal charges on Wednesday for his role in a human-smuggling attempt in which 53 people died last year, amid a growing border crisis, after they were picked up in a border town and were left in a sweltering tractor-trailer near San Antonio, prosecutors said. The smuggling attempt has been described by officials as one of the deadliest cases in recent years involving migrants along the southern border of the United States. Christian Martinez, 29, of Palestine, Texas, pleaded guilty to four counts related to transporting unauthorized immigrants and those actions resulting in death or injury, as he appeared before Judge Richard B. Farrer in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas in San Antonio, according to prosecutors. Mr. Martinez, one of six men being charged in the case, faces up to life in prison, and he is scheduled to be sentenced in January. David Shearer, a lawyer for Mr. Martinez, declined to comment on Thursday. The suspect in the death of a young tech entrepreneur in Baltimore was arrested late Wednesday, ending a dayslong manhunt in which he eluded the authorities as they tracked his cellphone and spending activity, the Baltimore Police Department said on Thursday. Richard Worley, the acting police commissioner for the department, said at a news conference on Thursday that the suspect Jason Dean Billingsley, 32, was taken into custody by a SWAT team in Bowie, Md., after 11:10 p.m. on Wednesday. Mr. Billingsley, a sex offender who was released from prison last fall, was charged with first-degree murder in the killing of Pava LaPere, 26, which the authorities believe happened on Friday, Commissioner Worley said. We tracked him all the way until we captured him yesterday, Commissioner Worley said, adding that Mr. Billingsley was cooperative when taken into custody. Mr. Biden has also been under pressure from members of his own party to confront the surge of migrants at the border, thousands of whom are putting enormous stress on social services in big cities like New York and Boston. The president and his aides have pointed to their efforts to provide more migrants with a chance to receive work permits. And they have repeatedly noted that Republicans blocked a comprehensive overhaul of the nations immigration system that might have helped the authorities manage migration more easily. Advisers to Mr. Biden, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss White House and campaign strategy, are confident that with a little nudging Americans will place the blame squarely on House Republicans if the government shuts down this weekend. That could benefit the president for the remainder of his term, they say, by bolstering his leverage with lawmakers and eroding support for the Republican majority in the House. Campaign aides also say the sense of disgust among Americans with the shenanigans on Capitol Hill will help Mr. Bidens re-election campaign by sharpening the contrast with his rivals. Former President Donald J. Trump, the leading candidate for the Republican nomination, has urged House conservatives to shut down the government, a move that Mr. Bidens advisers and supporters are quick to point out. Except for President Trump, who called for Republicans to shut down the government, no one actually wants this, because it means real people will get hurt, said Stephanie Cutter, a veteran Democratic strategist who has helped presidents develop messages inside the White House and during campaigns. The first hearing in House Republicans impeachment inquiry into President Biden featured their star witnesses testifying that they lacked proof that he committed impeachable offenses, multiple procedural skirmishes the G.O.P. majority nearly lost and, at times, nearly a dozen empty Republican seats. What it did not include was any new information about Mr. Bidens conduct or any support for Republicans accusations that he had entered into corrupt overseas business deals. If the Republicans had a smoking gun or even a dripping water pistol, they would be presenting it today, said Representative Jamie Raskin of Maryland, the top Democrat on the Oversight Committee. But theyve got nothing on Joe Biden. Top House Republicans are eyeing potential impeachment charges of bribery and abuse of power against Mr. Biden, and they have released more than 700 pages from the confidential tax investigation into his son Hunter Biden. But the G.O.P. has struggled so far to link Hunter Bidens business activity to his father. Despite their review of more than 12,000 pages of bank records and 2,000 pages of suspicious activity reports, none of the material released so far shows any payment to the president. President Biden issued a broad and blistering attack against former President Donald J. Trump on Thursday, accusing his predecessor and would-be successor of inciting violence, seeking unfettered power and plotting to undermine the Constitution if he returns to office in next years elections. In his most direct condemnation of his leading Republican challenger in many months, Mr. Biden portrayed Mr. Trump as a budding autocrat with no fidelity to the tenets of American democracy and who is motivated by hatred and a desire for retribution. While he usually avoids referring to Mr. Trump by name, Mr. Biden this time held nothing back as he offered a dire warning about the consequences of a new Trump term. This is a dangerous notion, this president is above the law, no limits on power, Mr. Biden said in a speech in Tempe, Ariz. Trump says the Constitution gave him, quote, the right to do whatever he wants as president, end of quote. I never heard a president say that in jest. Not guided by the Constitution or by common service and decency toward our fellow Americans but by vengeance and vindictiveness. Mr. Biden cited recent comments by Mr. Trump vowing retribution against his foes, accusing NBC News of treason and suggesting that the outgoing chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Mark A. Milley, might deserve to be put to death. The president also decried plans being developed by Mr. Trumps allies to erode the independence of major agencies, wipe out much of the top ranks of civil service and make senior government officials personally loyal to him. Its going to be a long road to next November. And the first steps started this week. President Biden and former President Donald J. Trump traveled to Michigan, one day after the other, to speak directly to working-class voters in what amounted to a preview of a likely 2024 campaign. Their dueling styles were on clear display as the two men tried to woo voters affected by the United Automobile Workers strike. Mr. Biden has campaigned on a message of bolstering the middle class, protecting democratic norms and countering China. Mr. Trump, a criminal defendant several times over, has focused on vindicating himself, channeling conservative grievances and promoting America-first policies. Their differences are not just ideological and tactical but stylistic. Mr. Trump prefers a boisterous event that lets him take center stage, and Mr. Biden, so far, has opted for small fund-raisers where he can burnish his Scranton Joe persona. A few minutes later, Ms. Haley couldnt contain her smile as Mr. Scott slowly wound up his counterattack, which fully unleashed their most vigorous exchange toward the end of an otherwise wearisome two-hour Republican debate. She grinned, watching him as he spoke. She stole a glance into the audience, raising her eyebrows as if to acknowledge that the moment was as unavoidable as it was preposterous. In past elections, Mr. Scott and Ms. Haley had campaigned together. Now, the former political allies were pitted against each other bickering over the cost of gas and the price of drapes in a government office in the increasingly desperate fight over second place to the races front-runner, former President Donald J. Trump. Mr. Scott, whose sunny disposition typically casts him more naturally in the role of a happy warrior on the campaign trail, tried on the persona of a political brawler. It was an imperfect fit, and he stumbled over his words, stammering as the accusations trickled out. As he turned to directly address Ms. Haley, he found her gaze waiting for him. Their eyes met, and they nearly broke character, sharing the briefest of smiles while trying to level criticisms at each other and signaling the absurd twist that their longtime political alliance had taken. DeSantis! several people called out. Although many in the group favored Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, they had been underwhelmed by his performance in the first Republican debate, on Aug. 23, and were hoping for a stronger showing on Wednesday. Many in the room were self-identified parents rights advocates, and cheered Mr. DeSantiss criticism of college gender studies programs and his boast that I ended up getting through Yale and Harvard Law School and somehow came out more conservative than when I went in. Several of Mr. Trumps rivals for the nomination are banking on New Hampshires early primary, with its storied history of scrambling, or at least spicing up, presidential races, as their best hope for breaking the former presidents stride toward the nomination. The debate watchers in Goffstown had seen many of the candidates in person during their dozens of appearances in the state in recent months. Although the crowd tilted toward Mr. DeSantis and the entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, most candidates on the stage had their partisans even Gov. Doug Burgum of North Dakota, who narrowly qualified for the stage hours before the debate. (Im always the person who likes the outlier, John Lombo, 45, a hazardous materials auditor for UPS and the lone Burgum supporter in the room, explained.) Many of them were using the debate as an opportunity to shop for vice-presidential favorites. Shes passionate! Mr. Talbot, who has endorsed Mr. DeSantis, said admiringly as Nikki Haley, the former South Carolina governor and ambassador to the United Nations, clashed with Tim Scott, the South Carolina senator, late in the evening. Ms. Mazur, who also supports Mr. DeSantis, was less impressed by the exchange. I liked her in the first debate, she said. This time, it was a little much. Despite appointing the Supreme Court justices who proved critical in overturning Roe v. Wade, Mr. Trump has ducked questions about whether he would support a 15-week ban, the baseline position of many anti-abortion activists in the Republican Party. And, with a clear eye on the general election where a hard-line position on abortion could turn off moderate and independent voters and galvanize Democrats Mr. Trump has criticized Mr. DeSantis for signing the six-week ban, calling it a terrible mistake. Mr. DeSantis used those comments to open a line of attack against the former president, telling pro-lifers that Mr. Trump was preparing to sell you out. Other conservatives, including Kim Reynolds, the popular Republican governor of Iowa who signed a similar abortion ban, have also joined in criticizing Mr. Trump. (Few women know they are pregnant by six weeks.) Steven Cheung, a spokesman for Mr. Trump, said that the former president had championed the life of the unborn. Previously, Mr. DeSantis had generally said he would support anti-abortion legislation but had not committed to signing such a federal ban. At the first debate in Milwaukee last month, Mr. DeSantis seemed to hedge when asked if he would support a six-week ban as president. Im going to stand on the side of life, he said, adding that conservative and liberal states would want to handle abortion restrictions differently. On Thursday, Mr. DeSantiss campaign disputed the idea that his comments were a change from his past position, pointing to an interview he gave to Radio Iowa this month. Asked if he would sign a 15-week ban, Mr. DeSantis said, You put pro-life legislation on my desk, Im going to look favorably and support the legislation. 00:00:00.000 > 00:00:02.029 Seven Republican presidential candidates 00:00:02.029 > 00:00:05.120 bulldozed their way through a debate on the Fox Business 00:00:05.120 > 00:00:07.280 Network on Wednesday night, shouting 00:00:07.280 > 00:00:09.095 at each other at times. 00:00:09.095 > 00:00:10.470 Gentlemen, youll have your turn. 00:00:10.470 > 00:00:13.920 But in the end, they probably left unscathed 00:00:13.920 > 00:00:17.480 the one person who was not on that stage, Donald 00:00:17.480 > 00:00:19.200 Trump, the front-runner. 00:00:19.200 > 00:00:20.310 Thank you very much. 00:00:20.310 > 00:00:22.650 He was in Michigan giving a speech to workers. 00:00:22.650 > 00:00:26.060 The candidates did raise issues from Ukraine 00:00:26.060 > 00:00:28.520 to education, but whatever differences 00:00:28.520 > 00:00:31.430 they had on the issues were more about style 00:00:31.430 > 00:00:32.490 than substance. 00:00:32.490 > 00:00:35.130 Nikki Haley really rose to the occasion. 00:00:35.130 > 00:00:39.307 She was everywhere, attacking multiple candidates. 00:00:39.307 > 00:00:40.640 Honestly, every time I hear you, 00:00:40.640 > 00:00:42.690 I feel a little bit dumber for what you say. 00:00:42.690 > 00:00:44.460 She went after Vivek Ramaswamy. 00:00:44.460 > 00:00:45.870 She went after Ron DeSantis. 00:00:45.870 > 00:00:48.680 At one point, she went after her fellow South Carolinian, 00:00:48.680 > 00:00:49.530 Tim Scott. 00:00:49.530 > 00:00:52.000 Do your homework, Tim. You are scrapping. 00:00:52.000 > 00:00:54.080 Vivek Ramaswamy, who was really the star 00:00:54.080 > 00:00:55.850 of the first debate in Milwaukee, 00:00:55.850 > 00:00:57.300 couldnt come up for air. 00:00:57.300 > 00:00:57.833 Excuse me. 00:00:57.833 > 00:00:59.750 Thank you for speaking while Im interrupting 00:00:59.750 > 00:01:00.960 interrupting while Im speaking. 00:01:00.960 > 00:01:03.030 He was attacked incessantly. 00:01:03.030 > 00:01:04.510 We cant trust you. 00:01:04.510 > 00:01:06.240 In one of the more memorable moments, 00:01:06.240 > 00:01:10.920 Tim Scott took on Ron DeSantis for a curriculum in Florida 00:01:10.920 > 00:01:11.950 on slavery. 00:01:11.950 > 00:01:15.090 Floridas new Black history curriculum says, quote: 00:01:15.090 > 00:01:18.580 Slaves develop skills which, in some instances, 00:01:18.580 > 00:01:20.640 could be applied for their personal benefit. 00:01:20.640 > 00:01:23.850 Thats a hoax that was perpetrated by Kamala Harris. 00:01:23.850 > 00:01:25.650 We are not going to be doing that. 00:01:25.650 > 00:01:28.170 Second of all, that was written by descendants 00:01:28.170 > 00:01:28.710 of slaves. 00:01:28.710 > 00:01:32.100 There is not a redeeming quality in slavery. 00:01:32.100 > 00:01:33.230 In general, 00:01:33.230 > 00:01:36.180 Scott was much more present on Wednesday night 00:01:36.180 > 00:01:38.075 than he was last month. 00:01:38.075 > 00:01:38.930 My wife... 00:01:38.930 > 00:01:41.700 Mike Pence tried to be a little more personable 00:01:41.700 > 00:01:44.640 Ive been sleeping with a teacher for 38 years 00:01:44.640 > 00:01:47.010 talking at one point about sleeping with his wife 00:01:47.010 > 00:01:50.550 and trying to land dad jokes that often were more awkward 00:01:50.550 > 00:01:51.600 than funny. 00:01:51.600 > 00:01:53.110 Donald, I know youre watching. 00:01:53.110 > 00:01:55.420 Chris Christie tried to tarnish the front-runner, 00:01:55.420 > 00:01:57.270 Trump. He even at one point called him 00:01:57.270 > 00:01:59.480 Donald Duck for missing the first two debates. 00:01:59.480 > 00:02:00.580 You keep doing that. 00:02:00.580 > 00:02:02.070 No one up here is going to call you Donald Trump 00:02:02.070 > 00:02:02.590 anymore. 00:02:02.590 > 00:02:04.090 Were going to call you Donald Duck. 00:02:04.090 > 00:02:06.520 And he got a little help from Ron DeSantis. 00:02:06.520 > 00:02:08.560 Donald Trump is missing in action. 00:02:08.560 > 00:02:10.520 He should be on this stage tonight. 00:02:10.520 > 00:02:11.440 In the end. 00:02:11.440 > 00:02:14.010 the seven candidates who entered the night far 00:02:14.010 > 00:02:17.970 behind Donald Trump probably ended the night still 00:02:17.970 > 00:02:20.420 far behind Donald Trump. Days before an all-but-certain government shutdown instigated by hard-right Republicans in Washington, Elizabeth Catalino arrived at a Hudson Valley high school looking for answers from her own G.O.P. congressman, Representative Mike Lawler. Im very disappointed that you have this band of Republicans that are being so obstinate, Ms. Catalino, who described herself as an independent, said in an interview on Monday after she attended a town hall-style meeting with Mr. Lawler in East Fishkill, N.Y. And I think its just going to be hurtful to everybody if theyre successful in shutting the government down. As right-wing lawmakers take Congress to the brink of a government closure for which their party would almost certainly bear the blame, dozens of Republicans particularly those like Mr. Lawler who represent districts won by President Biden are toiling to head off the backlash from voters for the chaos sown by some of the most extreme members of the G.O.P. Especially in a divided government, were going to have to find compromise. Were going to have to find areas of agreement, Mr. Lawler said in an interview. And for the handful of people that are unwilling to do that, its frankly destructive to the country and really harmful to the American people. Head of the People's Republican Party (PRP) Hazem Omar has announced his decision to resign from the Egyptian Senate to be allowed to submit his candidacy papers to the National Election Authority (NEA) to run in the upcoming presidential elections. Omar sent a message to Senate Speaker Abdel-Wahab Abdel-Razeq on Thursday informing the Senate that following the NEA's decision to open the door for nomination for the post of president and the PRP's decision to nominate him as its presidential candidate, he has decided to submit his candidacy papers to the Authority to run for the post of president of the republic in Egypts 2023-2024 presidential election. Furthermore, Omar, who chairs the Senate's Foreign Relations Committee, indicated that in observance of Article 255 of the Senate's internal bylaws, he has decided to resign from the chamber to be legally allowed to run for president. Mohamed Salah Abu Himila, Secretary General of the PRP, indicated that Omar has already secured endorsements from 20 MPs since the PRP has 50 MPs in the House. According to Article 142 of the constitution, presidential candidates should secure endorsements from 20 MPs or 25,000 registered voters spread across at least 15 governorates, with a minimum of 1,000 endorsements from each governorate. Moreover, Abu Himila indicated that the PRP has also formed a secretariat-general to organize Omar's presidential election campaign, stressing that the party, which he said enjoys wide popular support, takes this election seriously. He also voiced hope that the media and the state treat all candidates equally without displaying bias towards any candidate. Meanwhile, and for the third day, many MPs visited the House of Representatives to endorse presidential election hopefuls. Ashraf Rashad, who heads majority party Mostaqbal Watans parliamentary group and endorsed President El-Sisi's re-election, said the endorsement reflects the party's position. "As Mostaqba Watan MPs, we endorse President El-Sisi because he is the one most able to rise to the economic and political challenges facing Egypt," Rashad said. Although President El-Sisi, whose term ends in 2024, has not officially announced running for the presidency, several political parties have urged him to run for another period. Who is running? Seven political figures have revealed their plans to compete in the upcoming elections, the most recent of whom is Gameela Ismail, the head of the liberal Dostour (Constitution) Party, and Farid Zahran, the head of the leftist Egyptian Social Democratic Party. The other five figures include Abdel-Sanad Yamama, Head of the Wafd Party; Fouad Badrawi, a former MP and member of the Wafd Party's Higher Council; Hazem Omar, Head of the People's Republican Party; Ahmed El-Fadaly, Chairman of the Democratic Peace Party; and Ahmed Tantawi, a former MP and former head of the leftist Al-Karama (Dignity) Party. Informed sources told Ahram Online that President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, Abdel-Sanad Yamama, and Hazem Omar have secured endorsements from 20 MPs to run in the upcoming presidential election. MP Maha Abdel-Nasser, a senior official of the Egyptian Socialist Democratic Party, told reporters that by Monday, Farid Zahran will be able to secure the required recommendations from 20 MPs. Search Keywords: Short link: As Congress barrels toward a government shutdown instigated by his own hard-right members, Speaker Kevin McCarthy is toiling to turn a fight over federal spending into a battle over President Bidens handling of the border. By floating a stopgap funding bill that would slash spending while imposing stringent immigration restrictions demanded by conservatives, Mr. McCarthy is attempting to shift the debate from an issue that has divided members of his party toward one where they are united and where they believe Mr. Biden and his party are vulnerable. If they want to focus on Ukraine and not focus on the southern border, I think their priorities are backwards, Mr. McCarthy said of Democrats at a news conference this week. In fact, it is not just Democrats but also Republicans in the Senate who have agreed to move forward with a temporary spending patch that would provide $6 billion in aid to Ukraine as well as $6 billion for disaster relief at home. But Mr. McCarthys political play along with broad agreement that the situation at the nations southern border has grown untenable has spurred bipartisan talks on Capitol Hill about adding new immigration measures to government funding legislation. Some lawmakers now say it is likely that any deal to end what appears to be an inevitable shutdown on Saturday at midnight will eventually have to include some money or policy provisions to address the border. Robert K. Hur, the special counsel investigating President Bidens handling of classified documents while serving as vice president, has interviewed many of Mr. Bidens closest aides and advisers in a quiet inquiry that over the last nine months has reached into the upper levels of the White House and the cabinet, people familiar with the case said. Those who have been questioned about how government documents came to be stored in a think tank office set up for Mr. Biden after his vice presidency and in his Delaware home include officials who worked with him both at the tail end of the Obama administration and now. Among them are Steve Ricchetti, a top White House aide, and Jake Sullivan, the national security adviser, the people familiar with the case said. Prosecutors have also spoken to Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, who has been a key Biden foreign policy adviser for decades; Ron Klain, who served as White House chief of staff until earlier this year; and Michael R. Carpenter, the former managing director of the Penn Biden Center, who is currently ambassador to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. Mr. Blinkens interview was previously reported by ABC News. Federal prosecutors on Thursday accused former President Donald J. Trumps lawyers of trying to employ an arcane law governing the use of classified material to intentionally derail the timing of his trial on charges of mishandling national security documents and obstructing efforts to retrieve them. The accusation of deliberate foot-dragging by the prosecutors in the office the special counsel, Jack Smith, was the latest salvo over the schedule of the classified documents trial, which after weeks of contentious arguments is set to begin in May in Federal District Court in Fort Pierce, Fla. In court papers filed to Judge Aileen M. Cannon, who is presiding over the case, the prosecutors accused Mr. Trumps legal team of seeking to delay by at least three months a crucial step in how the government intends to prepare the classified documents at the heart of the proceeding for review by the defense. That request for a delay, wrote one of the prosecutors, Jay I. Bratt, threatens to upend the entire schedule established by the court and amounts to a motion to continue the May 20, 2024, trial date. As seven Republican presidential contenders debated on Wednesday night in California, former President Donald J. Trump, the front-runner for the nomination, spoke at an auto parts plant in Michigan, where he assailed President Bidens policies embracing electric vehicles. Mr. Biden on Tuesday visited the state to join the United Automobile Workers on the picket line. The U.A.W. has demanded a wage increase, improved benefits and shorter work hours. Another concern is how the push toward electric vehicles will affect union jobs. Here is a closer look at three of Mr. Trumps claims during his speech. WHAT WAS SAID Bidens job-killing E.V. mandate has dictated that nearly 70 percent of all cars sold in the United States must be fully electric less than 10 years from now. This is misleading. There is no federal electric vehicle mandate, but the Biden administration has proposed environmental rules that would, in effect, require companies to sharply ramp up electric vehicle production. Those requirements could speed up the industrys transition, but they are not yet on the books. And there is no evidence to support the claim that they would lead to the death of the U.S. auto industry, as Mr. Trump claimed at one point, especially with the increased demand for electric vehicles. A popular San Diego beach has long been the domain of sea lions, which for years tolerated their human onlookers some more respectful than others. But tensions escalated this summer when two large males charged ashore and sent a crowd of beachgoers scrambling for their clothes and stumbling over rocks to escape. A lifeguard urged people to give the animals space. They have bit people, he warned, and they are protected animals. Last week, the city made it official: Point La Jolla is not for the people. The resolution, passed unanimously by the San Diego City Council, follows months of debate regarding the beloved beach just north of La Jolla Cove; the rocky stretch is popular with spear fishermen and body surfers and is home to a rookery of 100 to 200 sea lions. But in recent years, social media posts bragging about close encounters with the animals have drawn throngs of tourists, who have increasingly encroached on the animals space. Conservationists cite visitors who get too close to the sea lions to take selfies, to touch and pet them or even to climb on top of the larger ones. Other visitors, conservationists say, have tried to handle week-old pups, while their mothers are out at sea gathering fish. Male sea lions, which can weigh up to 1,000 pounds, often become particularly aggressive during mating season in the summer, which is also the busiest period for tourists. Chen Siming, an activist who fled China, has been camped out at an airport in Taiwan for nearly a week, hoping to gain asylum in the West. He is willing to wait for much longer, as long as he is not forced to board a plane back to China. Mr. Chen, 60, is among a wave of activists and human rights defenders who have recently attempted bold and hazardous escapes from the country as a crackdown on civil society has widened. In July, a Chinese human rights lawyer fled to Laos. Last month, a critic of Chinas ruling Communist Party fled to South Korea, apparently by jet ski. Mr. Chens predicament in Taiwan is unusual. While the self-ruled island is an attractive refuge for people fleeing Chinese state oppression, it is also wary of raising tensions with Beijing by accepting too many critics of its Communist Party. Mr. Chen was reluctant to leave the mainland, eager to continue his activism there. I believe that people have to put in the work in order for society to improve, Mr. Chen said in an interview on Thursday. Thats why I always wanted to stay in China and fight. Khalistan has remained largely a diaspora issue, with proponents of violently pursuing the cause making up a tiny minority. To the extent that Sikhs in Punjab talk about separatism, it is in opposition to a national ruling party and its sister organizations, some with their own trail of violence, that speak openly about their desire to turn India into a Hindu state. It was a sentiment expressed earlier this year by a young man who paraded around the state portraying himself as the new prophet of Khalistan, prompting a manhunt and an internet shutdown. The rise of the 30-year-old preacher, Amritpal Singh, was mysterious. His arrest in a cat-and-mouse chase this spring, after his supporters had grown so emboldened that they attacked a police station to free one of their detained accomplices, put a quiet end to his saga. But Mr. Singh, giving speeches and interviews in which he mixed his appeal for the separatist cause with social issues such as drug rehabilitation, gave voice to a feeling that the B.J.P. has been prejudiced by pursuing and prosecuting Sikhs for doing the same thing that Indias Hindu right itself has done express ideas of religious nationalism. M.S. Swaminathan, the eminent crop geneticist who fused plant breeding science with keen administrative skills to produce bountiful harvests that ended famine and steadily transformed India into one of the worlds top growers of wheat and rice, died on Thursday in Chennai, India. He was 98. His daughter Nitya Rao confirmed the death. Known around the world as the father of Indias Green Revolution, Dr. Swaminathan helped ward off starvation for hundreds of millions of people through his research, along with training programs he developed to teach farmers how to cultivate more productive varieties of wheat and rice. For more than seven decades, Dr. Swaminathan steadily built one of historys most formidable careers in crop science and food production. He got his shoes muddy in farm fields and strained his eyes in laboratories on three continents as a young scientist. He was recruited to serve in senior executive positions at Indian government agencies and agricultural research institutes, and at advisory boards at home and abroad. He also took part in prestigious commissions in many countries. In India from 1979 to 1982, he was principal secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation, a senior executive of the Planning Commission and chairman of the cabinets Science Advisory Committee. From 1982 to 1988, he was director general of the International Rice Research Institute, a center of plant breeding and innovative cultivation practices in Los Banos, the Philippines, funded by the Rockefeller Foundation. When Pvt. Travis T. King fled to North Korea in July, he looked like a potential propaganda bonanza for Kim Jong-uns government. He was the first American soldier to cross from South Korea into the North since 1982. The North Korean state media claimed that Private King, who is Black, had complained of racial discrimination in the Army and said he wanted asylum. All the U.S. soldiers who deserted to the North during the Cold War were welcomed and used for anti-American propaganda, a fate that seemed entirely possible for Private King. But instead, North Korea deported him on Wednesday after weeks of diplomacy mediated by Sweden. American officials took custody of him in China and flew him to the United States. The North has said little about its reasons for expelling Private King. But several experts on the isolated country said it boiled down to this: Times have changed, and North Korea is now more likely to see an American deserter as a burden than as a benefit, unless the defector is a high-profile person privy to secret information. Mr. Harauski had also admitted to being a part of a special unit in the Belarusian Ministry of Interior known as SOBR. He said the unit had abducted and killed the three men: Yuri Zakharenko, a former interior minister; Viktor Gonchar, a former deputy prime minister; and Anatoly Krasovsky, a pro-opposition businessman. Mr. Harauski was tried on a charge of enforced disappearance in connection with the disappearances. Their disappearance had helped crush resistance to Mr. Lukashenkos increasingly authoritarian rule. An investigation by the Council of Europe the continents main institution governing human rights concluded in 2004 that the disappearances had been covered up at the highest level by the Belarusian government. In news interviews, and in testimony in court, Mr. Harauski described in detail how the eight-member SOBR unit had snatched the men off the streets of Minsk, the Belarusian capital, and drove them to two Interior Ministry bases, where the units commander shot each man twice in the back. The court said that it must be assumed that the three men had been murdered, and did not dispute Mr. Harauskis claim to have served in SOBR. But the panel of three district court judges who heard the case concluded in a written statement released on Thursday that because of discrepancies in his testimony, his participation in the disappearance of the men could not be considered legally proven. The judges suggested that Mr. Harauski might have exaggerated his role to support his asylum claim. The court also questioned the legal basis for charging him with the crime of enforced disappearance, saying, The defendant was not part of an arrest or kidnapping squad, but of an actual hit squad. Ofcom, Britains broadcasting regulator, opened a formal investigation on Thursday into a television news pundits tirade against a female journalist after receiving more than 7,000 complaints about his comments on GB News, a right-leaning network. Laurence Fox, an actor turned right-wing commentator, made a series of demeaning and misogynistic comments about the journalist, Ava Evans, while being interviewed live on Tuesday night by a fellow GB News host, Dan Wootton. The remarks provoked outrage from lawmakers across the political spectrum and on Wednesday, the broadcaster said on social media that both men had been suspended. We are conducting a full investigation, GB News wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. Ms. Evans, a political correspondent for an online news site, Joe, shared a clip of the segment on X after it aired, writing, I feel physically sick. The breakaway government of Nagorno-Karabakh said on Thursday that it would cease to exist, formally ending more than 30 years of separatist rule, a week after a swift attack by Azerbaijan returned the mountainous enclave to Azerbaijani rule. In a decree published by the official news service of the Republic of Artsakh the official Armenian name for Nagorno-Karabakh the territorys leader, Samvel Shakhramanyan, said that all government entities there would be dissolved by the end of the year. Ethnic Armenian residents of the territory should make their own decisions about whether they wanted to live under Azerbaijani rule or leave, the decree said. The announcement amounted to a formal surrender of the breakaway territory, a pivotal area at the crossroads of great power interests in the Caucasus, and put a formal end to a long and bloody conflict in which tens of thousands of people lost their lives in two full-scale wars, with around a million displaced. On Thursday, Azerbaijani authorities said that its migration service would start the process of registering Armenian citizens of the countrys Karabakh region through a special website. A worker at the Deutsches Museum in Munich stole paintings from the collection, replaced them with rough forgeries, then sold the originals at auction, according to the judgment of a court in the city this month. The thief used the proceeds to finance a luxurious lifestyle, the judge said. The worker, who is identified in court documents by the initials S.K., in keeping with German privacy law, was convicted of stealing four paintings by early-20th-century German artists from storerooms over nearly two years and avoiding detection by replacing the artworks with copies. He then sold three of the pieces at auction; the fourth failed to find a buyer. Judge Erlacher of the district court in Munich sentenced the man to a commuted prison term of one year and nine months and ordered him to repay the roughly $63,000 he got from the sale. The thiefs evident remorse and willingness to work with the court were given as a reason for the lenient sentence. He was 23 or 24 years old when he was hired as a technical employee of the museum, in May 2016, according to court documents. He left the museums employ in 2018. A woman, her teenage daughter and a man were killed on Thursday after a gunman opened fire at a house and a prominent medical school in the Dutch port city of Rotterdam, an unusual outburst of gun violence in the city that the police chief called a black day. The Rotterdam police chief, Fred Westerbeke, said at a news conference on Thursday evening local time that a 39-year-old woman and a male teacher at Erasmus Medical Center had been killed. Later, the Rotterdam police announced that the womans 14-year-old daughter had died from her injuries. They gave the age of the teacher as 43, correcting earlier statements that gave it as 46. None of the victims were immediately identified. The Rotterdam police arrested a 32-year-old Erasmus student as a suspect. He was carrying a weapon and wearing a bulletproof vest, the authorities said. He was also not identified. The police said they believed the shooter had acted alone. Much remained unclear, including a motive and the relationship between the victims and the suspect, who lived on the same street as the woman and her daughter, according to Dutch news media. One of Britains most famous trees, a sycamore that stood in a dip in Hadrians Wall, was cut down this week in what the authorities described as an act of vandalism. The authorities said they arrested a 16-year-old boy on Thursday and a man on Friday in connection with the case. The Northumbria Police said the unidentified man, described as being in his 60s, and the teenager were both helping officials in their investigation. The senseless destruction of what is undoubtedly a world-renowned landmark and a local treasure has quite rightly resulted in an outpour shock, horror and anger throughout the North East and further afield, Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Fenney-Menzies said on Friday. I hope this second arrest demonstrates just how seriously were taking this situation, and our ongoing commitment to find those responsible and bring them to justice. The police have previously said that they believed that the beloved tree, known as the Sycamore Gap tree, had been deliberately felled. The chief of NATO and the defense ministers of Britain and France have paid surprise visits to Kyiv, announced on Thursday, in a show of continued solidarity, even as they emphasize the goal of pumping up weapons production within Ukraine. Conscious of softening Western support for the expensive business of arming Ukraine, officials are billing expansion of Ukraines own arms industry as needed economic development for a war-tattered country. It is also a potentially lucrative prospect for Western weapons makers, albeit a risky one in a country bombarded daily by Russia; Moscows forces launched dozens of exploding drones into Ukraine overnight, the Ukrainian government said on Thursday, but there were no reports of casualties or serious damage. It will be an important opportunity for Ukrainian companies to forge new partnerships with the industry across the alliance and beyond, Jens Stoltenberg, the NATO secretary general, said at a news conference with President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine on Thursday. The stronger Ukraine becomes, the closer we come to ending Russias aggression. Yom Kippur, the most solemn and sacred date on the Jewish calendar, is usually a day of unity for Jewish Israelis. Highways empty, shops close and transport networks shut down, as nonobservant Jews show respect to the devout by avoiding work and driving. But that social cohesion collapsed this year. Confrontations broke out on the streets of Tel Aviv as religious Jews tried to organize Yom Kippur prayers in which men and women were encouraged to pray separately angering residents of the mainly secular city. The clashes shocked Israelis of all backgrounds, and the fallout is still reverberating, leaving many braced for similar standoffs in the coming days, with more Jewish holidays falling this weekend and next. On Thursday, the Tel Aviv City Council canceled permission for another outdoor religious event this weekend, citing the possibility of public disorder. The far right security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, said he would hold his own segregated prayer meeting on the same spot on Thursday evening, before backing down. Critics of Mr. Ben-Gvir went ahead with a mixed prayer service nearby, in what had been intended as a counterprotest. Rina was downgraded to a post-tropical cyclone on Sunday and was expected to dissipate on Monday after posing no threat to land, forecasters said. The National Hurricane Center estimated at 5 p.m. on Sunday that Rina, formerly a tropical storm and later a tropical depression, was about 785 miles northeast of the northern Leeward Islands, and that its sustained winds had decreased to 30 miles per hour, with higher gusts. No coastal watches or warnings were in effect. Forecasters said Rina had become a remnant low, a post-tropical system lacking the organization to be considered a cyclone, on Sunday night. It was expected to dissipate on Monday. When a New York judge ruled on Sept. 26 that Donald J. Trump had committed fraud by inflating his assets, he effectively said that the heart of the case against the former president would not be subject to debate during his trial. The civil case was brought by Letitia James, the New York attorney general, in 2022, and accuses Mr. Trump and his family business of lying to lenders and insurers about the value of their properties in order to secure more favorable terms. In a so-called summary judgment days before the trial, Justice Arthur F. Engoron of State Supreme Court in Manhattan found that they had done so and that Mr. Trump was liable. It is not a normal fraud case. Rather, it was brought under a powerful New York statute that gives the attorney general wide scope to investigate and prosecute corporate fraud. Because that law is being used, the questions that remain will be decided by Justice Engoron in a bench trial one decided by a judge rather than by a jury. Who is deciding the case? Justice Engoron is an independent and thoughtful if somewhat quirky jurist who has served for 20 years in New York City Civil and State Supreme Court. Welcome to Opinions commentary for the second Republican presidential primary candidate debate, held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in California on Wednesday night. In this special feature, Times Opinion writers and contributors rate the candidates on a scale of 0 to 10: 0 means the candidate probably didnt belong on the stage and should have dropped out before the debate even started; 10 means the candidate can head to Iowa and New Hampshire with the wind at his or her back. Heres what our columnists and contributors thought about the debate. Jane Coaston She battled with Tim Scott (a lot!) and really, really seemed to dislike Vivek Ramaswamy (granted, she also loved his 2021 book). Fortunately for her, disliking Ramaswamy seems to be a popular sentiment. Gail Collins This is the one candidate who talked about education in a smart, serious way. Matthew Continetti Governor Haley is an excellent communicator, but her message was often lost amid all the cross talk. She seemed to be fighting everyone from Ron DeSantis to Tim Scott to Vivek Ramaswamy. Not all of the punches landed. But Im not sure this debate will boost her poll numbers. Michelle Cottle Spent much of the evening looking like she wanted to smack someone anyone. Her performance was as feisty as last time, but she seemed less in control, less focused. Although, to be fair, the entire debate was a gong show. Ross Douthat A disappointing follow-up to her well-received first debate, she mostly made an impression playing Amy Klobuchar to Vivek Ramaswamys Pete Buttigieg a show of feminine contempt for a male tyro that was fun enough to watch, but didnt build the momentum toward second place that she needed from this evening. Michelle Goldberg One question going into this debate was whether Haley could build on her dominant performance last time. Turns out the answer is no. (Also the idea of sending American Special Operations forces into Mexico is insane.) Katherine Mangu-Ward Haleys comment that she gets dumber when she listens to Ramaswamy was the most quotable of the night, but she failed to repeat her successful strategy from the last debate of establishing herself as the pragmatic grown-up in the room. Daniel McCarthy In this debate, Governor Haley decided to play the role that Vivek Ramaswamy played last time, frequently interrupting and attacking others. This will earn her good press but not many more votes shes auditioning for a television slot rather than the G.O.P. nomination. Katherine Miller Haley again sounded fairly cogent about foreign policy and reading. In terms of the purest politics, she is doing a slightly (slightly) different thing than much of the field and was a little sharper edged than in the first debate, cutting into DeSantis on energy, Scott on his Washington career and Ramaswamy in general. It will be interesting to see if that doesnt wear well or if its like this is the only killer. Peter Wehner She helped herself for the second debate in a row. Shes the most talented candidate on the stage, skilled at taking on Trump without infuriating the base. In a sane party, shed be a star. In a deranged party, she finds herself trailing a sociopath by almost 50 points. Jane Coaston If one is currently not leading a presidential primary, one should not debate as if one is. He was barely there, and when he was, he seemed as if he wished he were elsewhere. His strongest moment was on the subject of abortion, a topic on which I think he believes he shares more in common with voters than he actually does. Gail Collins Really distracted by the way he raises his eyebrows, which doesnt speak well for the depth of his comments. Including his defense of the theory that slavery was a useful education experience. Matthew Continetti Governor DeSantis is not an exciting debater, but he remains the most plausible alternative to Donald Trump. He sticks to his message, respects the other candidates and makes few mistakes. He zinged Trump a few times for not showing up to the debate, and defended his record on abortion against Trumps criticisms. He emphasized his winning electoral record and his policy accomplishments. This is what a Republican nominee looks like but DeSantis has a lot of lost ground to make up. Michelle Cottle He was more awake and engaged this time. Better about jumping into the fray. Even took a gentle swing or two at the absent Trump. He is still awkward, and theres probably nothing to be done about that smile or that whiny voice. If he were the front-runner, he could feel really good about this performance. But hes not. Ross Douthat Very similar to last time in its above-it-all, straight-to-the-camera, Im-the-front-runner attitude, with a couple of more effective moments where he actually tried to pivot off his rivals. Nobody took him down, he didnt get dirtied, his core support will probably stay solid but his strategy seems predicated on having 30 to 40 percent of the G.O.P. electorate in his pocket and hes got only 10 or 15 percent. Michelle Goldberg DeSantis took a few strategic swipes at Trump while stroking the erogenous zones of right-wing influencers. It may be too late for him to turn his flailing campaign around, but he demonstrated why he was once seen as a credible Trump successor. Katherine Mangu-Ward The most inspiring moment of the debate was when the candidates led by DeSantis rose up and collectively refused to participate in the moderators gimmick asking them to say who on the stage should be voted off the island. And at least as the polling stands, that is also how the primary will go, with DeSantis heroically leading the non-Trump candidates to their collective doom. Daniel McCarthy Hes the best fit for the G.O.P. of anyone onstage, but his debate appearances dont help him at all against the only rival that matters, Trump. His Florida record is a strength, but by relying on it too much he sounds like hes running for governor, not president of 50 states. Katherine Miller Nothing really seemed to go wrong for him. Not a ton seemed to separate him from everyone else, though. Not just for DeSantis, but the U.S. military interventions into Mexico sounded even more jarring in the context of Fox and Univisions overall questions about the logistics of that. Peter Wehner His campaign is flaming out; this debate did nothing to change that. DeSantis is intensely dislikable, cold and distant even when telling personal stories, and he just cant shake that creepy smile. During the debate, he obsessed on his record as governor, clinging to it like a drowning man to a life raft. More donors are likely to flee this wreck of a candidate. Jane Coaston He really, really, really wanted to fight Donald Trump, who was not present. So he yelled at him via the cameras. Gail Collins Cheers for Christie for reminding the audience that Donald Trump was afraid to show up. But calling him Donald Duck was just dumb. Matthew Continetti Governor Christie had a few solid moments, but they were fleeting. His direct-to-the-camera address to Trump ended with a bad joke. His position on Ukraine is not popular with the modern G.O.P. His answer on artificial intelligence was interesting. Hes under 3 percent an average of national polls. Hes slipped to fourth place in New Hampshire. The rationale for his candidacy is fading. Michelle Cottle Another strong performance. He took multiple swings at Trump, both on policy matters and for ducking yet another debate. He even managed to take a truly insipid closing question by the hapless moderators Who would you vote off the island? and use it to stress Trumps disrespect for Republican voters. The guy still doesnt have a prayer, but someone needs to be in there throwing those punches. Ross Douthat Donald DUCK? Look, if you want frontal attacks on Trump, hes your guy, but we know most Republicans dont, and on tonights evidence, there isnt much more to Christies case for himself. Michelle Goldberg His taunting of Trump was amusing until his cringey attempt at a burn with Donald Duck. Katherine Mangu-Ward One of Christies few good moments was when he borrowed Haleys successful observation from the last debate about the complicity of Biden and Trump on matters of spending and debt and tied it to the impending government shutdown quite effectively: If the government closes, it is to the blame of everyone in Washington, D.C., who has failed to do their job and just plays to the grandstand. Daniel McCarthy Governor Christie seemed to benefit from disproportionate airtime or maybe he just used it effectively. He sounds more experienced and down to earth than many rivals, but his focus on Trump overshadows all else. He should run as pro-Christie, not anti-Trump. Katherine Miller Christie gave a compelling answer about treating all life as valuable, including treatment for people in dire circumstances with addiction issues. Then he shifted into a breakdown of his re-election in New Jersey, which feels like the clearest drift from the original message/Trump protest dimension of this candidacy. Peter Wehner Debates were supposed to be his forte. In two hes been impressive but hardly dominant. His best moment was his last moment, when he spoke about how Trump has divided not just the country but families. Christies defense of Ukraine was stirring. His worst moment was a canned line in which he compared Donald Trump to Donald Duck (Disney defamation suit to follow). Jane Coaston Good response about Floridas education strategy regarding teaching about slavery. But then he started yelling about curtains. Gail Collins Senator Scott may not have always been right or even sensible. But he was better this time around when it came to just speaking up. Matthew Continetti Senator Scott loomed larger in this debate, but he didnt quite achieve liftoff. He relied heavily on his biography and on his inspirational view of American exceptionalism. His lines are well-rehearsed and well-delivered, but they havent been enough to boost him in the polls. His attack on Haley over curtains at the U.N. ambassadors residence was confusing and a little sad. Which is a pretty good description of this second G.O.P. debate. Michelle Cottle The senator still is not breaking through. But he is still playing hard for the V.P. slot. So good luck with that? Ross Douthat He actually showed up tonight, got off a couple of idealistic stemwinders despite his apparent cold, took his turn scrapping with Ramaswamy and tried to pick a fight with his fellow South Carolinian over something to do with curtains. His audition tape to be Donald Trumps vice president is modestly improved, his chances of being the nominee are not. Michelle Goldberg His bickering with Ramaswamy and Haley at one point squabbling with her over curtains only made him look small. Whats the point of running for runner-up? Katherine Mangu-Ward When asked to explain his comments about firing strikers, he said the words fentanyl and Mexico a bunch of times. In that sense, his performance was totally typical of the G.O.P. field. Daniel McCarthy Senator Scott may have gained the most from this debate, He seemed more mature yet no less passionate than in the past. Like the others, he interrupted and bickered a bit, but when he spoke for himself he had substance and polish enough to stand above the scrum. Katherine Miller Like DeSantis, he was certainly more fluid and interactive. At this point, he and DeSantis have parts of a fairly similar issue set (border, abortion restrictions), and he was more assertive but its tricky to balance when part of the pitch is nice. Peter Wehner His best moment and his worst moment came in the same answer. In response to Floridas school curriculum, Scott said, theres nothing redeeming about slavery. Amen. Then he implied that L.B.J.s Great Society was worse for Blacks than slavery. What? Scotts campaign theme is to project optimism. It wont work in a party that thrives on animus, fear and conflict. Jane Coaston He is clearly very irritating to the other candidates, and to many people in general, and is aware of that fact, and yet, he goes on. Gail Collins No matter how you feel about the issues, it cannot be fun to listen to this guy yelling. And quote of the night from Haley: Every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber. Matthew Continetti I gave Ramaswamy a high score last time because, though I find him annoying, I could see his appeal to MAGA populists looking for a disruptive outsider. I dont think MAGA will be as pleased with his performance in Simi Valley, however. He tried to be collegial and modest, but its hard to be something you are not. The field scored major blows against him on the TikTok question and on his business connections to China. His youth and inexperience were on display. This debate wont change the trend. Michelle Cottle He went from glibly insulting his rivals in the first debate to repeatedly lecturing them about not being insulting in this one which just ticked them off more. He wasnt as bro-ish, which was a small blessing. But he once again came across as obnoxious, wildly over-caffeinated and aggressive verging on angry. He is so lucky Haley didnt smack him. Ross Douthat Somebody told him that his attention-grabbing performance last time was too polarizing and alienating, so he decided to go with unctuous fake humility instead. He still stirred up the same hatred from his rivals, and honestly I preferred Vivek 1.0 to the pious, Reagan-invoking reboot. Michelle Goldberg He had the unctuous interparty magnanimity of a man who imagines himself the front-runner. It was even more insufferable than the pugilistic pose he adopted in the last debate. Katherine Mangu-Ward Ramaswamy would like the G.O.P. to appeal to young people by meeting them where they are including on TikTok but also raise the voting age to 25 and require age verification on social media. OK. (This was a banger, though: Capitalism is still the best system known to man to lift us up from poverty and we should not apologize for it.) Daniel McCarthy He was the brash new thing in the first debate, but brought nothing novel to the discussion this time. His attempt at humility in referring to himself as a know-it-all rang hollow when more voters are worried that Ramaswamy doesnt know nearly enough about most policy topics. Katherine Miller Ramaswamy can veer from a holistic answer about drug abuse thats much more polished than the other populists when they speak about fentanyl to standard-issue MAGA answers about trans rights and Ukraine. He is where a lot of base voters are, though. Peter Wehner The change in Ramaswamy between the first debate and this one was head-snapping. Last time, he made ad hominem attacks against his competitors; this time he portrayed himself as BFF to all. It didnt work. The irritation the other candidates have for him is visceral. The rest of America is with you. Thank you for speaking while Im interrupting may be the most memorable thing he says this entire campaign. Jane Coaston He was there and seemed cogent. Which was nice. Gail Collins We were frequently reminded which debater is governor of North Dakota. Matthew Continetti Governor Burgum is a substantive candidate. He has a record of success in business and politics. His answers were all solid, and a few of them were thought-provoking. But he is not a serious contender for the nomination and shouldnt have been on the debate stage. Michelle Cottle In a debate perpetually tilting toward chaos, what you really dont need is a D-list candidate endlessly clamoring to be recognized especially when his rambling answers are off point as often as not. Stop, just stop. Ross Douthat A smart guy auditioning to be a cabinet secretary should have been one-and-done on this stage. Michelle Goldberg Its hard to see what he thought he was accomplishing by buying his way onto the stage for this train wreck. Katherine Mangu-Ward Every time the federal governments involved whether its higher education, health care, or now the auto industry things get more expensive and less competitive. Yep. Daniel McCarthy With the lowest expectations coming in, Governor Burgum could easily exceed them: His message discipline is admirable, he stakes a clear claim as the federalism-and-business-experience guy, but his federalism torpedoes him with Republicans on parental rights and transgender issues. Katherine Miller Burgum still seems like he has a sense of proportion about issues and their severity that feels more normal than a lot of national politicians, but it also feels like its more for a Senate or governor run. Peter Wehner He never should have gotten into the race; its past time for him to leave it. Jane Coaston I did not enjoy learning more about his marriage. Gail Collins Boy, Pence sort of disappeared from the stage, didnt he? Most memorable comment: Ive been sleeping with a teacher for 38 years. Matthew Continetti The former vice president was a marginal figure during the debate. His only memorable line was that hes been sleeping with a teacher for 38 years. T.M.I.! I admire Mike Pence greatly, but it is hard to see him gaining any traction. Michelle Cottle He makes me tired and sad just to watch. So painfully out of sync with his party. Ross Douthat The absence of sustained arguments about Trump himself and Jan. 6 stripped away the most interesting aspects of his candidacy, and what remained was just boredom and anachronism. Michelle Goldberg With his deadly earnest Zombie Reaganism, hes running for president of a party that no longer exists. Katherine Mangu-Ward Pence might quite reasonably believe that he deserves to claim the Reagan mantle, especially since his brand of principled conservatism recently garnered kudos from several former Reagan officials. But Reagan was actually funny. Daniel McCarthy Nothing the vice president said made an effective case for him over any of his competitors, who seem fresher and more energetic than he does. Even Governors Christie and Burgum have more distinctive identities; Mike Pence is just there. He may soon go the way of Asa Hutchinson. Katherine Miller One of the disorienting things about Pences campaign is the way its retro early 80s and out of sync, social and economic policy-wise and in his relationship to Trump, with where a lot of Republicans are. This was all reflected in his joking as though the audience was going to be with him, culminating in the nightmare joke about sleeping with a teacher. Peter Wehner Trump cant stop focusing on 2020; Pence cant stop focusing on the 1980s. The country is dramatically different, the G.O.P. even more so. In many ways, its the anti-Reagan party. Oh, and Pence is probably the last person on earth who should be making jokes about who he sleeps with. In regard to policy over personality, which Republican candidate could you get behind? A correction was made on Sept. 28, 2023: An earlier version of this article misquoted Mike Pence. He said, Ive been sleeping with a teacher for 38 years, not 30 years. 7:30 p.m. Find your seats at a Chicago theater institution Regional theaters across the country are still suffering from smaller crowds and fewer paying subscribers, and the storied Steppenwolf in the Lincoln Park neighborhood is no exception, laying off 12 percent of its staff this year in the face of declining revenues. But Chicagos love for theater runs deep, and Steppenwolf, which has been around since 1974, is still producing exceptional plays. (One of its shows, Sanctuary City, which runs through Nov. 18, is particularly well timed as Chicago struggles with an influx of migrants.) In 2021, the theater completed an expansion of its campus: The revamped Steppenwolf now includes the Ensemble Theater, a 400-seat, in-the-round space. You dont have to look far for a nightcap after the show two different bars in the theaters building are open late. Whos Gaining Ground in Ukraine? This Year, No One. Although both sides have launched ambitious offensives, the front line has barely shifted. After 18 months of war, a breakthrough looks more difficult than ever. Frontline on Jan. 1, 2023 Kyiv UKRAINE KHARKIV Dnipro River LUHANSK HELD BY RUSSIA DONETSK Zaporizhzhia KHERSON CRIMEA UKRAINE KHARKIV Dnipro River LUHANSK HELD BY RUSSIA DONETSK Zaporizhzhia KHERSON CRIMEA UKRAINE KHARKIV Dnipro River LUHANSK HELD BY RUSSIA DONETSK Zaporizhzhia KHERSON CRIMEA Kyiv UKRAINE KHARKIV Dnipro River LUHANSK Bakhmut DONETSK Zaporizhzhia KHERSON CRIMEA UKRAINE KHARKIV Dnipro River LUHANSK Bakhmut DONETSK Zaporizhzhia KHERSON CRIMEA UKRAINE KHARKIV Dnipro River LUHANSK Bakhmut DONETSK Zaporizhzhia KHERSON CRIMEA Kyiv UKRAINE KHARKIV Dnipro River LUHANSK Robotyne DONETSK Zaporizhzhia KHERSON CRIMEA UKRAINE KHARKIV Dnipro River LUHANSK Robotyne DONETSK Zaporizhzhia KHERSON CRIMEA UKRAINE KHARKIV Dnipro River LUHANSK Robotyne DONETSK Zaporizhzhia KHERSON CRIMEA Kyiv UKRAINE KHARKIV Dnipro River LUHANSK DONETSK Zaporizhzhia KHERSON CRIMEA UKRAINE KHARKIV Dnipro River LUHANSK DONETSK Zaporizhzhia KHERSON CRIMEA UKRAINE KHARKIV Dnipro River LUHANSK DONETSK Zaporizhzhia KHERSON CRIMEA The front line in Ukraine changed little last winter. Russia aimed to capture the entirety of the Donbas, but it only inched forward. Territory Russia gained since Jan. 1 Ukraine has made minimal gains in its counteroffensive. Dense Russian minefields and fortifications have made every attack extremely costly. Territory Ukraine gained since Jan. 1 Despite nine months of bloody fighting, less than 500 square miles of territory have changed hands since the start of the year. A prolonged stalemate could weaken Western support for Ukraine. Territory changed hands since Jan. 1 Both sides started the year with lofty ambitions: Russia wanted to capture the eastern Donbas region, while Ukraine aimed to split Russian forces with an attack in the south. Neither offensive has gone to plan. The front line, after months of grueling combat and heavy casualties, remains largely unchanged. Change in territory each month 20,000 square miles Amount of territory Russia gained 10,000 Russias winter offensive captured about 100 square miles per month. Ukraines counteroffensive began, but progress has been slow. 0 The least territory changed hands in August of any month so far. Russia withdrew from Kherson. 10,000 Russia withdrew from northern Ukraine. Amount of territory Ukraine gained 20,000 Feb. 2022 March April May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. 2023 Feb. March April May June July Aug. Sept. Amount of territory Russia gained 20,000 square miles 10,000 Russias winter offensive captured about 100 square miles per month. Ukraines counteroffensive began, but progress has been slow. 0 The least territory changed hands in August of any month so far. Russia withdrew from northern Ukraine. 10,000 Amount of territory Ukraine gained 20,000 Feb. 2022 April June Aug. Oct. Dec. Feb. April June Aug. March May July Sept. Nov. Jan. 2023 March May July Sept. Amount of territory Ukraine gained Amount of territory Russia gained 10,000 0 10,000 20,000 sq. miles Feb. 2022 March April May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Russia withdrew from Kherson. Dec. Jan. 2023 Feb. Russias winter offensive captured about 100 square miles per month. March April Ukraines counteroffensive began, but progress has been slow. May June July The least territory changed hands in August of any month so far. Aug. Sept. 10,000 0 10,000 20,000 sq. miles Amount of territory Ukraine gained Amount of territory Russia gained 10,000 sq. miles 0 10,000 20,000 Feb. 2022 March April May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Russia withdrew from Kherson. Dec. Jan. 2023 Feb. Russias winter offensive captured about 100 square miles per month. March April Ukraines counteroffensive began, but progress has been slow. May June July The least territory changed hands in August of any month so far. Aug. Sept. 10,000 sq. miles 0 10,000 20,000 Source: New York Times analysis of data from the Institute for the Study of War with American Enterprise Institutes Critical Threats Project Data as of Sept. 25. The New York Times Less territory changed hands in August than in any other month of the war, according to a New York Times analysis of data from the Institute for the Study of War. While Ukraine made small gains in the south, Russia took slightly more land overall, mostly in the northeast. Across the front line, every mile of territory has been a grinding fight, with no repeat of the rapid breakthrough that Kyiv managed in Kharkiv in September last year, when Russias defenses collapsed after a surprise Ukrainian counterattack. Russia and Ukraine have faced similar challenges this year. Both sides are fighting for positions that have remained largely entrenched for months, or even years in some parts of eastern Ukraine. Seasoned troops and commanders who were killed earlier in the war have been replaced with new recruits who often lack sufficient training. Ukraines counteroffensive has struggled to push forward across the wide-open fields in the south. It is facing extensive minefields and hundreds of miles of fortifications trenches, anti-tank ditches and concrete obstacles that Russia built last winter to slow Ukrainian vehicles and force them into positions where they could be more easily targeted. When both sides gains are added up, Russia now controls nearly 200 square miles more territory in Ukraine compared with the start of the year. Since Jan. 1, Ukraine gained: 143 square miles Russia gained: 331 square miles Net gain: 188 square miles Since Jan. 1, Ukraine gained: 143 square miles Russia gained: 331 square miles Net gain: 188 square miles When all the territorial changes are added together, Russia controls an additional 100 square miles of Ukraine, compared to Jan. 1, 2023. For a sense of scale, thats smaller than the borough Queens, NYC, and a third of the size of Ukraines capital city, Kyiv. For scale, thats smaller than New York City... and smaller than Kyiv, Ukraines capital. 188 square miles 188 square miles Net change in territory this year For scale, thats smaller than New York City... 188 square miles Net change in territory this year and smaller than Kyiv, Ukraines capital. 188 square miles For scale, thats smaller than New York City... 188 square miles Net change in territory this year and smaller than Kyiv, Ukraines capital. 188 square miles Source: New York Times analysis of data from the Institute for the Study of War with American Enterprise Institutes Critical Threats Project Data as of Sep. 25. The New York Times Rather than seeking rapid gains, the Russian military appears to be comfortable holding the territory it already controls, according to Marina Miron, a postdoctoral researcher in war studies at Kings College London. Its not losing anything by not moving forward, she said. Russias forces outnumber Ukraines nearly three to one on the battlefield, and with a larger population to replenish its ranks, Russia could see a prolonged defense as in its interests. The whole strategy in Ukraine is for the Russians to let the Ukrainians run against those defenses, kill as many as possible, and destroy as much Western equipment as possible, she added. Russia controls about 18 percent of Ukraine a swath of land larger than Switzerland. This includes Crimea and part of eastern Ukraine, which it has occupied since 2014. Occupied by Russia before 2022 7.0% Gained during 2022 10.9% Gained this year 0.08% (Crimea and part of eastern Ukraine) Occupied by Russia before 2022 7.0% Gained during 2022 10.9% Gained this year 0.08% (Crimea and part of eastern Ukraine) Occupied by Russia before 2022 7.0% Gained during 2022 10.9% Gained this year 0.08% (Crimea and part of eastern Ukraine) Occupied before 2022 7.0% Gained during 2022 10.9% Gained this year 0.08% The slowdown comes with huge risks for Ukraine. If it looks unlikely to recapture large areas of the country, Western support could wane, either through lack of political will or unwillingness to donate more weapons, especially given the yearslong wait for deliveries of replacement equipment. Russia is trying to wait out until the West turns its back, said Dr. Miron. Ukraine continues to battle through Russias defenses in the south. Last month it successfully recaptured the village of Robotyne, and in recent days moved armored vehicles past Russias main anti-tank defenses near Verbove, about eight miles to the west of Robotyne. But the clock is ticking for Ukraines counteroffensive to make significant territorial gains. Heavy rains are expected next month, and muddy terrain could prevent the use of heavy vehicles, such as the newly arrived U.S. Abrams tanks and the Challenger tanks supplied by Britain. When there is mud and you have a 75-ton Challenger, it will just sink, said Dr. Miron. An elderly Chinese couple sparked a heated online debate last week after it was revealed that despite being married for 30 years, they still split all their finances, house chores, even the food in their refrigerator. In many parts of the world, going Dutch is considered perfectly normal on dates, but for a couple going on three decades of marriage and having been living together for all that time, it seems a bit strange. Still, for Mr. and Mrs. Chen, an elderly couple in Tianjin, China, splinting everything, from finances to the eggs in their fridge, has been the norm for as long as they can remember. The two have been featured in the news for their unusual going Dutch lifestyle before, and went viral once again, earlier this month. According to Chinese media, this special couple dont even share a bed, with the husband instead sleeping in a narrow hallway. Everything in their house, down to the plastic wash basins are split between them, as are the chores and the food. For example, if a light bulb goes out, Mrs. Chen has to ask someone to change it, because her husband will not do it unless its on one of his designated ceiling lamps. The refrigerator is split down to the number of eggs, which the two spouses each administering their own shelves. We take turns cooking and cannot use each others cooking utensils, the husband said. Sometimes after I cook, she suspects that I stole her eggs. Mrs Chen told reporters that their unique arrangement was a consequence of her husbands selfish behavior. Ever since they were young, he would always keep all the things he bought for himself, never sharing them with her, so at one point she just decided to give him a taste of his own medicine. Theyve been going Dutch ever since. Interestingly, the two credited this system for making their life together more peaceful, as they dont fight over the things they own or chores they have to do. This view was considered very controversial on Chinese social media, with the vast majority of reactions suggesting that a going Dutch system isnt ideal in a marriage. I can accept splitting the bill while dating but why do we need to keep going Dutch after getting married? If a couple cannot share everything, that means they are not Mr Right and Ms Right for each other, one person wrote. If he asked to go Dutch after we decided to get married, I would feel that he was unreliable and reconsider whether to spend the rest of my life with this man, a woman commented. An Australian man reportedly made his girlfriend believe that he had been kidnapped so he could spend New Years Eve with his mistress. 35-year-old Paul Iera narrowly avoided jail time after he admitted before a judge that he had concocted an elaborate lie to hide his infidelity from his girlfriend, wasting tens of thousands of taxpayer dollars in the process. On December 31st of last year, the Australian man from Wollongong called his girlfriend to tell her that he was meeting his finance guy, when in reality he was going to see his mistress. At one point, in order to buy themselves some time, the couple messaged Ieras girlfriend again, this time pretending to be a kidnapper who promised to deliver him safe and sound the next day. Photo: Getty Image/Unsplash+ Thank you for sending Paul to me, now payback is a ***** bye bye. We will keep him with us until the morning wen (sic) he gives us his bike we call it square, the kidnappers message read. The one thing Paul and his mistress didnt count on was his girlfriends panic after reading the message. Fearing for his life, the woman immediately notified the police to report his kidnapping, and a strike force was immediately established to locate and rescue the victim. So while Paul Iera and his mistress were spending some quality time together, the Lake Illawarra Police District was spending 200 hours of police work, equivalent to more than $25,000 of taxpayer money on trying to find him. On the morning of January 1st, during a high-risk vehicle stop, the police pulled over Ieras van and found him safe and sound in the company of his mistress. He tried to tell the officers that he had been indeed kidnapped by some Middle-Eastern fellows who eventually let him go, but his story had kinds of inconsistencies, and twelve days later he was arrested and charged with making a false accusation with the intent to subject another person to investigation. Paul Iera faced up to seven years behind bars for his despicable deception, but after admitting to making up the story of his kidnapping to hide his infidelity from his girlfriend in a court of law, he dodged the bullet and was ordered to pay $AUD 16,218.11 to the New South Wales Government in compensation for the work done by police. Iera was also sentenced to 350 hours of community service. Magistrate Michael Ong described the accuseds actions as abhorrent, adding that he had seriously considered giving him jail time. Russian police are currently on the lookout for a young girl who reportedly stormed out of a restaurant, leaving her date to foot the bill after he asked her to split it evenly. Handling the bill on a first date has always been a point of contention, as some people believe that men should cover the entire cost, while others are convinced that going Dutch is the only way. Both sides have their arguments, and while online forums are full of endless debates on the subject, there was never really cause for involving the police. Until recently, that is, when one 28-year-old man from Moscow filed a complaint against a woman he went on a date with after she refused to split the bill, leaving him to cover the entire 16,000 rubles ($165) cost. Photo: Priscilla Du Preez/Unsplash The unnamed man told police that he had met a woman online a few weeks prior, and after getting to know each other through social media, they decided to go on a date together. They opted for a cafe on Moscows Mira Avenue, and everything appeared to be going smoothly until the waiter arrived with the bill. He suggested that they split the cost evenly but the woman flat out refused, claiming that he had ordered most of the food and drink, so he should be the one to pay. After arguing about it for a few minutes, the woman reportedly stood out and walked out of the cafe, leaving the poor man to handle it by himself. Only he didnt let her off the hook that easily. Instead of taking it on the chin, the man went straight to a police station and filed a complaint against his date. The conclusion to this romantic tale is yet unknown, but its hard to believe the guy will get a dime out of his date. CA Wants to Hike Awareness of OCal Cannabis Seal Wed., Nov. 1, 2023 The California Department of Food and Agriculture plans to hire a firm for an education and outreach campaign to create awareness of the OCal seal on commercial cannabis products. Lyndsey Newnam G&S Business Communications expands into the landscaping & outdoor living market. The agencys new Landscaping & Outdoor Living segment will offer companies in the sector a range of services including branding & purpose, creative & storytelling, corporate reputation & ESG, employee engagement and media relations. It will be led by agency VP Lyndsey Newnam. Product and service innovation are the vanguard of this new era of landscaping and outdoor living, said G&S Business Communications chief growth officer Steve Halsey. Our G&S team has proven expertise in helping industry-leading brands grow their business and tell their stories of creating a greener, more harmonious world, guided by innovation, responsibility and an unwavering commitment to excellence." Josslynne Welch, Michele Litzky Litzky Public Relations, which works with brands targeted at kids and families, announces the retirement of founder/CEO Michele Litzky. Agency president Josslynne Welch, who has managed LPRs operations since 2018, becomes its sole proprietor. Litzky will continue to operate Michele Litzky Consulting, which works with clients including toy analyst, researcher and consultant Chris Byrne. As I move into my next chapter, Im leaving my firm in the most capable hands I know, with Josslynne Welch, said Litzky. Her diversification into other business sectors that service kids and families and her continued commitment to the toy industry makes me equally proud and excited to see where shes taking LPR next. Tier One Partners, a women-owned PR, digital, and content agency, celebrates its 20th anniversary by making a donation to the Cathy Hughes School of Communication Annual Fund at Howard University, one of the country's leading HBCUs. Earlier this year, the agency, a Diversity Action Alliance signatory member, kicked off its third decade of operation with a new brand identity inspired by client feedback on what they valued most in working with the agency. The rebrand included a new visual identity, featuring an updated logo, color palette, typeface, and imagery all intentionally selected to reflect the values most important to Tier One. Founded in 2003, Tier One launched its Agile Insights & Analytics Practice, focused on recognizing and predicting macro trends in real time, in 2021. Throughout this time, the communications industry has rapidly evolved and our agency has evolved alongside it, said agency co-founder and managing partner Kathy Wilson. What a shocker... Compensation for CEOs at the 350 largest publicly traded firms dropped 14.8 percent to $25.2M in 2022, compared to only a 1.9 percent dip for employees at those companies, according to a report by the Economic Policy Institute. A lousy stock market hit the pockets of CEOs. The fall in comp was due to the reduced value of exercised options due to the decline of stock prices. But shed no tears for corporate chieftains. Their compensation has soared 1,209.2 percent since 1978 vs. a 15.3 percent boost for a typical worker. In 2022, CEOs earned 344 times more than one of their workers. Thats a big jump from 21 times in 1965. Out-of-this-world CEO pay contributes to rising inequality. EPI believes CEOs are getting paid more because of their leverage over corporate boards, not because of any management genius. The think tank recommends empowering shareholders to vote on CEO comp and using tax policy to incentivize lower CEO pay. At the very least, higher income-tax rates should be reinstated for those at the very top. The Donald mimics Rudy. Donald Trumps Sept. 27 invitation-only appearance at Drake Enterprises, a non-union truck parts shop in the Detroit suburbs, is reminiscent of Rudy Giulianis infamous press conference at Four Seasons Total Landscaping in Philadelphia four days after the 2020 presidential election. Both were PR disasters. Located near a sex shop and crematorium, Four Seasons was hardly the ideal site to challenge the Keystone States vote count. To make matters worse for Rudy, the Associated Press called the election for Joe Biden as he droned on. Trump made believe his audience was filled with members of the striking United Auto Workers union. (The Detroit News reported there were fake UAW members in the crowd holding union posters in support of Trump). He said the UAW is not picketing for the right thing and railed against environmental lunatics who support electric vehicles. Trump urged a crowd of about 500 to get their UAW leader to endorse him and hell take care of the rest. The Donald sounded like a Mafia Don, or an old-time union boss. Who knew? The great state of Idaho is well-known for its spuds, but wine? Idaho is perfect for growing grapes. It has warm days, cool nights and lots of relatively affordable land. Riesling, Chardonnay, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot rank as the top five wines produced in The Gem State. The Idaho Wine Commission wants to move the state from consideration as being an up and coming wine producer to one that is ready for prime time. It is wrapping up a search for a firm to handle PR and marketing, IWCs Julianne Germain told ODwyers. Watch out, California. Here comes Idaho. LETTING the grass grow too long at roundabouts is dangerous, according to an Offaly councillor. Cllr Declan Harvey said he was concerned about the implications of initiatives like 'No Mow May' if the growth on the roundabouts around Tullamore was not cut back. Roundabouts, why do they have to be so wild? the Tullamore Fianna Fail councillor asked Ricky Whelan, biodiversity officer with Offaly County Council. Cllr Harvey said many people had contacted him about the matter and he knew other councillors had received similar queries. He said he was into nature and wildlife. Birds, bees whatever, I do believe in protecting all that, but these roundabouts, to me, and to the people I represent are dangerous when they're let grow too high. The councillor said that perhaps if they were maintained at a certain height it would be alright. I'm all for biodiversity and looking after wildlife and insects but we have to put lives first. Mr Whelan, who is Offaly's first ever biodiversity officer having been appointed earlier this year, said the issue was being considered and he had spoken to one of his colleagues in the council. I have had a number of discussions with Jean Ryan in Tullamore [municipal district] about specifically the Tullamore roundabouts, looking at the management of those as well, as appropriate. So watch this space. Mr Whelan had addressed councillors on a number of projects across the county to promote biodiversity but another elected member, Cllr John Clendennen, voiced concerns. Cllr Clendennen said some people regarded it as sloppy to allow wildflowers and weeds in graveyards and he suggested a signage plan to help explain why cutting was not taking place. He said 'No Mow May' was possibly seen by the public as a cost cutting measure, when it's not. We've failed to date in terms of getting that message across, remarked the Fine Gael councillor. Having listened to presentations from Rachel McKenna, senior architect, and Amanda Pedlow, heritage officer, on preservation of buildings, Cllr Clendennen, said the council would also have to be mindful of the need to create employment and how it was going to engage with communities. Many would argue that the rate and pace of change is too steep, he said, so they have to be informed along the way and brought with the council. The goal should be to bring life back to old buildings and to town and village centres. Mr Whelan said individual proposals were being developed for graveyard sites and he was conscious that first and foremost they were burial sites. We will make sure the mowing fits in before cemetery Mass and all those sort of things, he said. He added that Cllr Clendennen was in Kinnitty with him and the sheer number of species they saw was incredible. Council Cathaoirleach, Cllr Eddie Fitzpatrick welcomed heritage work in Bracknagh and urged the community there to enter the Tidy Towns. He also said a heritage group was set up in Cloneyhurke. Thatching emerged as another specific issue following a query from Cllr Clare Claffey, Social Democrats. Ms McKenna said the problem with thatching roofs was not funding, it was a lack of thatchers, a number of whom had not worked this year because of illness or retirement or other reasons. A difficulty with the grant scheme was that when the work could not be carried out in the correct year the funding was withdrawn. We've tried to contact other thatchers around the country but they couldn't work here because they're busy in their own counties. The number of thatched buildings in Offaly is declining. In 2004 there were 75 thatched properties and in 2018 it had dropped to 43. Ms McKenna also told Cllr John Carroll that the Birr Destination Town project was delayed due to steel manufacturing issues. Ms Pedlow told the councillors that Seir Kieran, Clareen, had received funding under the community monuments fund and she hoped to see the conclusion of the graveyard walls work next year under the care of the Church of Ireland. The interest is national in Seir Kieran, it is a hugely significant site. Replying to another question from Cllr Claffey, Ms Pedlow said the demolished castle at Lemanaghan would not be rebuilt. The position of the department is that you conserve as is, so whatever you have you keep, said the heritage officer. A tiny little stump remained of the original castle behind the schoolhouse and there was now a proposal to erect bulletproof glass and on it will be the original castle outline with the stump built into it. So without rebuilding it you can stand there and see how it would have looked in the landscape. A TULLAMORE man ran onto the street and started screaming obscenities, the September 20 sitting of Tullamore Court heard. Belkacem Bouchentouf, 19 Arden View, Tullamore was charged with engaging in threatening behaviour and being intoxicated in public at Arden Vale Tullamore on June 2, 2023. He had also been charged with damaging a fireproof cell blanket in Tullamore Garda Station, but this charge was withdrawn. The Sergeant told the court that both Bouchentouf and his partner were very drunk on the evening. When the Gardai came across him in Arden Vale they saw that he was very intoxicated and they witnessed him running from his house out onto the street where he began shouting obscenities. The defending solicitor told the court that Bouchentouf's partner had suffered an injury on the evening and Bouchentouf was trying to get medical aid for her. His partner suffered a fall which caused a head injury, the solicitor said. Therefore my client was feeling distressed. He subsequently apologised to the Gardai for his behaviour. He is 52 years of age and is a French national. He has been living in Ireland for several years. He suffers from anxiety. The solicitor added that the plea was guilty. The solicitor asked the Judge to not convict, pointing out that Bouchentouf had 500 in the court for the Garda Benevolent Fund. The court was told that the defendant had one previous conviction. Judge Andrew Cody commented that Bouchentouf got his chance last year and he's back again before the court. He obviously hasn't learned his lesson. I'm therefore convicting and fining 300 for the Section 6 offence. I'll take the Section 4 into consideration. The CEO of Childrens Health Ireland (CHI) has said she has absolutely no recollection of discussing the use of non-medical springs in surgeries with any clinician. The hospital group is at the centre of a controversy around post-operative outcomes for children with serious spinal conditions, including the use of springs in some surgeries. Eilish Hardiman told members of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health that she did not receive correspondence discussing the use of the springs which was purportedly sent following a meeting in February 2020. Ms Hardiman told the members that implanting non-medical grade devices should not happen and cannot be approved by anybody within CHI or the Health Products Regulatory Authority. She said there was a full end-to-end investigation into the custody of the springs through the hospital organisation. She said the springs were not from an approved supplier and did not enter the hospital through the approved procurement process. Ms Hardiman told Sinn Fein health spokesperson David Cullinane: We have evidence of it being invoiced, but that doesnt mean its been procured. Clinical director Paula Kelly said the the implantation of non-medical devices is not appropriate in any situation in the surgical world. She added: We cannot stand over any surgeon who implants non-medical devices. Asked by Green Party TD Neasa Hourigan about how the springs entered the surgical theatre, CHIs chief medical officer, Dr Allan Goldman, said: Were at as perplexed as you as to how that happened. Asked by Mr Cullinane if she had attended a meeting in 2020 in which experimental techniques and devices were discussed with clinicians including the surgeon at the centre of the reviews, Ms Hardiman said she was at the meeting but had no recollection of the springs being discussed. She said: I have absolutely no recollection of that. The CHI chief said the use of MAGEC rods, which are separate instruments, was discussed at the meeting. Asked about the correspondence addressed to her which raised the use of springs, Ms Hardiman said: I have not received this letter. I have no evidence of receiving this letter and I have absolutely not approved non-medical devices. She said she first became aware of the use of springs in child surgeries in July 2023 following parliamentary questions from People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy. Ms Hardiman said that discussions on new techniques happen all the time but reiterated that approval would have to be given for the implantation of any device. She also said: This particular treatment was actually first under a research study in Utrecht Childrens Hospital, and that went through the full research ethics process. The device that was actually used there was a medical-grade device and it went through all of the proper processes as a proper piece of research. In her opening statement, Ms Hardiman said the findings of reviews in the paediatric orthopaedic services were distressing as she apologised again to affected individuals and families. She said children did not receive the level of care which they deserved and were entitled to. We are deeply sorry that the children, young people and families did not get the care they deserve and apologise unreservedly for the harm that they endured. One of the children whose case was included in the reviews has died. Ms Hardiman apologised to their family and said the case is subject to a serious incident investigation. We want to offer our sympathies and profound apologies to the family involved. She committed to providing the family with the incident review report as soon as it is completed. Things happened in CHI Temple Street that should not have happened. Decisions were made, certain procedures were carried out, children were subjected to a higher than expected unplanned return trips to the theatre and, alarmingly, unapproved non-medical grade devices were implanted in three children. This is a shocking litany of events. She added: As soon as we become aware the outcomes of these surgeries were not what they should have been, we acted. Mr Cullinane read from email correspondence in which the clinical director of Temple Street hospital asked the surgeon at the centre of the reviews. He said the consultant was asked to do three-to-four operations per month, rather than your proposed one a month. Responding to a question from Mr Cullinane, Ms Hardiman rejected that there was a possibility that pressure was placed on clinicians to perform surgeries at an increased rate that was unsafe. How Karnataka Bandh Has Become A Boon For Bengalurians Bengaluru oi-Prakash KL 'Kannada Okkuta', an umbrella organisation for pro-Kannada groups, has called state-wide bandh on Friday to protest against the release of Cauvery river water to Tamil Nadu. This is the second bandh that Bengaluru is witnessing days after Tuesday's shutdown over the same issue, but this call was given by 'Karnataka Jala Samrakshana Samiti', a collective of farmers' associations and other organizations led by farmer leader Kuruburu Shanthakumar. 'Kannada Okkuta' has expressed confidence that the dawn-to-dusk bandh on Friday will be successful. There will be a massive protest procession from Town Hall to Freedom park in the city, in which people from all walks of life are likely to participate, the organisers said on Wednesday. They have said that the bandh is for the entire Karnataka and that they will try to shut highways, toll gates, rail services, and also airports. Karnataka Bandh: Who Is Supporting Protest Against Cauvery Water Release To Tamil Nadu? "Karnataka bandh will be successful, more than 1,900 organisations, associations and pro Kannada organisations have supported it. From Belagavi or Bidar to Chamarajanagara and from Mangaluru to Kolar, everyone is ready to observe bandh," 'Kannada Okkuta' leader and Kannada activist Vatal Nagaraj said. While the pro-Kannada organisations are trying to exert pressure on the government over the issue, it has turned out to be a boon for Bengalurians as the bandh has allowed them to go on a holiday. Thursday marks a government holiday for Eid Milad-un-Nabi. Due to the bandh on Friday, many schools, colleges and government offices will be closed. However, the IT companies have asked employees to work from home. This means that they will not have to go to their offices on September 28. Adding to the break, Saturday and Sunday, the regular weekly holidays, are followed by Gandhi Jayanti on October 2, resulting in a five-day long weekend for many. Not surprisingly, the Outer Ring Road of Bengaluru witnessed a major traffic snarl on Wednesday evening. Karnataka Bandh On September 29: Will Shut Toll Gates, Railway Stations, Says Vatal Nagaraj Normally, Wednesdays witness a vehicle count ranging from 150,000 to 200,000, but on September 27, the count surged to 359,000 by 7:30 p.m, according to moneycontrol report. This surge was largely attributed to the effects of the Bengaluru bandh that unfolded on September 26. One possible reason was the traffic jam could be an extended weekend that may have prompted many to leave the city. Even for Mumbaikars, the scenario is the same as the Maharashtra government has declared holiday on Friday on the occasion of Eid-e-Milad, making it a five-day long weekend. Thursday is a holiday in the state for Anant Chaturdasi. Big Cat On The Loose: Leopard Spotted Yet Again Near IT Park In Kudlu, Residents Panic Is There A Karnataka Bandh On September 29? Bengaluru oi-Madhuri Adnal Karnataka Bandh: Karnataka Water Conservation Committee president, Kurubur Shanthakumar announced on Thursday that the protesters will block Highways from 11 am to 1 pm tomorrow i.e on September 29 as the govt failed to act on their demands that were submitted during Bengaluru Bandh on Tuesday. The decision to cancel the bandh has been welcomed by the state government and by many businesses and organizations. However, some pro-Kannada organizations have expressed disappointment and have said that the bandh should have gone ahead. Earlier, the Bengaluru Commissioner of Police has emphasized that all forms of bandh are forbidden by the Supreme Court. However, he has also said that people have the right to protest peacefully, and that the sole sanctioned location for protests and rallies is Freedom Park in Bengaluru. Karnataka Bandh: Sec 144 Imposed In Bengaluru: What's Open, Closed On Sep 29? Any organisation that wants to lend their support to the bandh can do so on their own, but they must not force anyone else to participate. If any damage to property occurs during the bandh, the respective protesting organisation will be held accountable for the costs. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar expressed his reservations on Thursday regarding the bandh called by various pro-Kannada groups over the Cauvery issue. He appealed to protesters to adhere to the court orders, stating, "I will not oppose the bandh, but responsible individuals will respect the court orders. It is our duty to safeguard public property. The CWMA has scheduled a meeting for Friday, and I have instructed officials to attend the meeting in person. Our officials will strongly present the argument that we cannot release water to Tamil Nadu. I kindly request the public not to participate in the bandh." Bengaluru Hotel Owners Association President PC Rao extended support for the bandh called by pro-Kannada groups and decided to remain shut on Friday. It's worth noting that the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) has mandated Karnataka to release 3,000 cusecs of water daily to Tamil Nadu from September 28 to October 15. Meanwhile, the state theater association has expressed its support for Karnataka bandh scheduled for tomorrow. According to the association, film screenings will be suspended until the evening, after which regular showings will resume as usual. Passengers at the Bengaluru airport have been advised to follow alerts from respective airlines, law enforcement agencies and media releases for further updates, in view of the one-day stata wide bandh. Caught On Camera: Man Crushed To Death In Bengaluru After Intense Car Chase On Busy Road Karnataka Bandh Today: Will Schools, Namma Metro Be Closed? Will Cabs Be Available In Bengaluru? Bengaluru oi-Madhuri Adnal Karnataka Bandh: The 'Kannada Okkuta,' an amalgamation of pro-Kannada groups, has called for a Karnataka bandh on Friday, September 29, in an effort to compel the Congress-led state government to halt the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu. This bandh has garnered support from over 1,900 organizations. In preparation for the bandh, the police department has deployed 80,000 personnel throughout Karnataka to ensure security and maintain order on Friday. Authorities have issued a stern warning, indicating that stringent actions will be taken against any protesters who disrupt the peace during the bandh. R Hitendra, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) for Law and Order, appealed for peaceful protests, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the rules and avoiding the forced closure of businesses. "Strict action will be taken against protestors who break rules during the bandh. No businesses should be forcefully closed, and protests must be held in a peaceful manner," stated R Hitendra, ADGP for Law and Order. Meanwhile, Vatal Nagaraj, a prominent Pro-Kannada activist leading the bandh, has announced intentions to obstruct vehicles at toll gates, disrupt train services, and halt airport operations as part of the protest. The Bengaluru Commissioner of Police emphasises on Supreme Court's ruling that all forms of bandh are forbidden. ''The sole sanctioned location for protests and rallies is Freedom Park. However, any organisation can lend their support on their own and not by force. If any damage to the property occurs, the respective protesting organization will be held accountable for the costs,'' Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayananda said. The Karnataka Associated Managements of Schools (KAMS) has expressed moral support for the bandh and has left the decision to declare a holiday in the government's hands. Will Namma Metro Services Be Available to the Public? Despite the bandh, Namma Metro services, operated by the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), will continue to run as usual. Will Banks Stay Open? All public and private banks will commence operations without any changes in their timings. Are Ola, Uber Cabs be available? Office-goers in Bengaluru may face challenges on Friday as the Ola and Uber Drivers and Owners Association has endorsed the bandh, opting to keep their services off the road. Karnataka Bandh On September 29: What The Bengaluru Police Commissioner Has To Say Vatal Nagaraj has also called for a procession from Town Hall to Freedom Park on Friday, urging Sandalwood stars to participate in the protest march. Are Schools, Colleges Closed Today? The administration in Bengaluru has declared a holiday in all educational institutions in the city for the day. Can People Access Theatres and Shopping malls? Shopping malls and movie theaters throughout the state have confirmed their participation in the Karnataka bandh, which means they will remain closed during the protest. In the northern region of Karnataka, including areas such as Ballari, Kalaburagi, Bidar, Bagalkote, Vijayapura, Yadgir, Hubballi-Dharwad, Gadag, Haveri, Koppal, and Davangere, farmers and traders have expressed their 'moral support' for the bandh. However, they have clarified that they will not be closing their businesses. Karnataka Bandh today: What Is Open, What Is Closed? Closures include: Schools and colleges in Bengaluru Ola and Uber services Autorickshaws Labor-oriented works Truck transportation Markets Street vendors Hotels Theaters Malls Private buses Bakeries Services that remain open: Hospitals Pharmacies Ambulance services Namma Metro service BMTC and KSRTC services Airports Milk parlors IND vs SL: How have India and Sri Lanka fared against each other in World Cups? Players to watch out for Breaking News: Afghan Embassy in India Reportedly Closing Down Operations Sources have reported a possible shutdown of the Afghan embassy's operations in India. This information purportedly comes from an official communication from the embassy itself, which is headed by Ambassador Farid Mamundzay. The Indian government is currently investigating the validity and contents of this message. India -Krishna Kripa According to recent reports, the Afghan embassy in India is allegedly planning to cease its operations. The Indian government is currently scrutinizing the validity of this information, as disclosed by informed sources on Thursday. The embassy has been under the leadership of Ambassador Farid Mamundzay who was appointed by the previous Ashraf Ghani administration. Interestingly, Mamundzay has continued his role as an envoy even after Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021. It has been discovered that he is presently based in London. The decision to close down the embassy's operations came via a communication purportedly issued by the Afghan Embassy itself. This news was confirmed by sources within the Indian government who are now investigating both its authenticity and content. "The context behind this sudden move involves several factors such as: the ambassador being away from India for several months, a consistent exit of diplomats who have reportedly received asylum in third countries and alleged internal disputes among embassy staff," one source explained. A Communication To MEA It has also come to light that a formal communication regarding their intent to shut down operations within a few days was sent to Indias Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). However, there has been no immediate response or comment from either side regarding these developments. Implications And Consequences If true, this development could potentially have significant implications for diplomatic relations between Afghanistan and India. Over time, both nations have enjoyed robust bilateral ties with each other; however, since Taliban's ascension to power following President Ashraf Ghanis flight from Kabul amidst violence and chaos - these ties seem uncertain. The Role Of Diplomacy In Changing Times This reported closure comes at a critical juncture when international diplomacy plays an essential part in navigating through changing political landscapes worldwide particularly in Afghanistan. The country is currently grappling with a humanitarian crisis, economic instability, and widespread fear under Taliban rule. Amidst this chaos, the role of diplomatic missions like the Afghan embassy becomes even more crucial in maintaining communication channels open between nations. In conclusion, while it remains to be seen whether these reports are indeed true or not, they undoubtedly bring forth critical questions about the future of foreign diplomacy under changing political regimes. The alleged closure of the Afghan Embassy in India could signal a new phase in Afghanistan's international relations following the recent power shift. This development also underscores how volatile political situations can significantly impact diplomatic ties and operations across global platforms. Historic Surge in Migrants Strains Americas, International Funds Inadequate: U.N. Official The flow of migrants to countries in the Americas has reached historic levels, causing strain and highlighting inadequate international funding for humanitarian needs. A coordinated regional effort is necessary to address this issue according to Ugochi Daniels, deputy director of operations for the International Organisation for Migration. India -Krishna Kripa As the Americas face a historic influx of migrants, countries are grappling with mounting humanitarian needs. A United Nations official has stated that international funds for these needs are simply not sufficient. This comes as nations like Panama and Costa Rica appeal for global assistance in managing the migrant surge. A Call for Coordinated Regional Effort Ugochi Daniels, deputy director of operations for the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), underscored in a recent interview with The Associated Press that a larger and more coordinated regional effort is required to address this issue over an extended period. She highlighted the steady movement of vulnerable people towards the United States, indicating that it's not just one country's problem but requires international attention. "Obviously, it's not an issue that can be solved by any one country," she said. "The unprecedented flows in the region require attention international attention." Funding Challenges Amidst Global Crises However, other global crises such as the war in Ukraine, conflict in Sudan, and Morocco's earthquake have diverted much-needed resources away from this pressing issue. Daniels pointed out on Wednesday how these events have siphoned off global funds intended to mitigate compounding worldwide crises. The U.N estimated earlier this year through August that USD 55.2 billion was needed to tackle these growing challenges; however, only 71% of these funds were received. The Cost of Humanitarian Aid In light of these financial constraints and increasing demands for aid due to escalating migration levels, several countries including Panama and Costa Rica have made urgent appeals for international assistance. Yet there seems to be no clear agreement or direction on who should foot this substantial bill. Daniels did not specify which entities or nations should bear this cost but reiterated her call for a collective, international response to this unprecedented situation. Conclusion The migrant surge to the Mexico-U.S. border has brought the issue of migration and its accompanying humanitarian needs into sharp focus. As countries in the Americas reel under the pressure of these historic levels of migration, it is becoming increasingly clear that a coordinated global effort is required for a sustainable solution. However, with funds being redirected towards other global crises and insufficient support received so far, nations are left grappling with how best to address this urgent humanitarian crisis. Auto-Driver Arrested For Raping 12-Year Girl In Ujjain, Tries To Escape Custody India oi-Madhuri Adnal The primary suspect in the case involving the rape of a 12-year-old girl, whose harrowing ordeal was captured on CCTV as she desperately sought help from door to door, has been aaarested in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. Attempting to evade arrest, the suspect, identified as an autorickshaw driver, was pursued by a police team and successfully captured. The police had escorted the accused to the location where the alleged assault took place to collect evidence. Upon arrival at the scene, the accused seized an opportunity to flee from the police. A chase ensued, culminating in his apprehension. Inspector Ajay Kumar informed reporters, "Today, we reached the spot to recover the clothes worn by the girl. Sensing an opportunity, Bharat Soni tried to escape. Police personnel chased and caught him. During this, he fell on a cemented road, injuring his arms and legs." #WATCH | Madhya Pradesh | Bharat Soni, the accused in Ujjain minor rape case brought to Civil Hospital in the city. He sustained injuries after falling down while trying to escape the Police and has now been brought here. Details awaited. pic.twitter.com/UDraOxe8Dm ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2023 Sachin Sharma, the Superintendent of Police, revealed that technical surveillance and CCTV footage analysis had been employed to locate the main suspect. "The accused is from Ujjain. He saw the girl walking alone. She is yet to give a statement, is recovering in a hospital," Mr. Sharma stated. The distressing footage from Ujjain, depicting the 15-year-old girl in a semi-naked, bleeding state following the assault, as she sought assistance from door to door, has ignited outrage nationwide. 'She Was Bleeding, Had Swollen Eyes': Ujjain Priest Who Helped Rape Survivor Authorities had interrogated an autorickshaw driver after reviewing CCTV footage of the area where the teenager had been seen seeking help. The police had discovered bloodstains in the three-wheeler. Today, the focus zeroed in on the autorickshaw driver. Although the survivor underwent surgery and is in stable condition, she has not provided a statement due to her incoherence. She cannot specify her place of origin, her parents, or any other relatives, according to a police officer. Nevertheless, a complaint had previously been filed in another district of Madhya Pradesh when a girl went missing, and an investigation is ongoing to determine if she is the same individual. She has a grandmother and a brother. CCTV footage revealed a man shooing away the young girl, who was partially unclothed following the assault. She eventually found assistance at an ashram, where a priest offered her his clothing and contacted the police. Twenty minutes later, law enforcement arrived, and she was swiftly transported to a hospital. It's worth noting that Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra have reported the highest number of cases of women and girls going missing between 2019 and 2021. Additionally, Madhya Pradesh reported the most incidents of rape in the country in 2021, with 6,462 cases according to National Crime Records Bureau data, more than 50% of which were crimes against minors, equating to 18 rapes daily. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Thursday, September 28, 2023, 20:40 [IST] Students Urged by CPI Leader D Raja to Protest Against BJP Government's Alleged Big Business Focus At the AISF national conference in Begusarai Bihar, CPI national secretary D Raja criticized the BJP government for its alleged pro-business stance and promotion of RSS' 'fascist' ideology. He questioned Modis unfulfilled promises regarding job creation and black money recovery. India -Krishna Kripa In a recent address to the All India Students' Federation (AISF), CPI national general secretary D Raja criticized the BJP government for its alleged focus on serving big businesses rather than addressing public concerns. The conference, held in Begusarai Bihar, witnessed Raja urging students to challenge the current administration and their policies. CPI Leader Criticizes BJP Government Raja accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government of perpetuating caste hierarchy and patriarchy by furthering RSSs "fascist" ideology. He claimed that these actions are a stark contrast to the motto of 'Satyamev Jayate', which translates as 'truth shall prevail'. The CPI leader expressed his disappointment over unfulfilled promises made by PM Modi during his election campaign in 2014. Unfulfilled Promises and Alleged Lies The Communist Party of India (CPI) leader pointed out Modi's promise of creating two crore jobs annually since coming into power seven years ago. According to him, if this promise were fulfilled, there would be 18 crore jobs created by now. Moreover, he questioned about the black money issue raised during the election campaign where it was claimed that every citizen could receive Rs 15 lakh in their account from recovered black money. 'Sinister' Moves Under Current Regime Raja also highlighted what he termed as "sinister" moves under the current regime such as Vishwakarma scheme and National Education Policy (NEP). He argued that through initiatives like Vishwakarma scheme - which allegedly aims at ensuring children of barbers and carpenters continue with their fathers occupation - is an attempt to legitimize caste inequality according to RSS thought process. A Call To Students Addressing AISF, the student wing of CPI, Raja urged students to take up the fight against these policies and actions of BJP government. He emphasized on the role of youth in challenging and changing such alleged oppressive systems. In conclusion, it is evident that D Raja's address was a clear call to action for students across India to challenge what he perceives as an unjust system under the current regime. His criticism towards Modis rule being characterized by "lies" and his concerns over certain policies like Vishwakarma scheme and NEP indicate a growing dissatisfaction among some sections with the present administration. Whether this will translate into significant political action remains to be seen. Content creator and digital media expert Aditi Jain talks about the challenges she faced in the field Fake Assault Charge: Youth League Accuses Anil Antony, Media For Promoting Fake news India oi-PTI Youth League leader P K Firos has targeted Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spokesperson Anil Antony and a section of the media over the propagation of a recent fake claim by a soldier to create communal divisions in society. The soldier, hailing from Kadakkal in Kollam district, had claimed that he was assaulted by a group of six persons who wrote 'PFI' on his back with green paint. Later it emerged that the soldier had faked the incident. PFI generally refers to the Popular Front of India, an Islamic political organisation that was banned by the central government last year. In a Facebook post, Firos, who is the general secretary of the Indian Union Muslim League party's youth wing, said that the BJP's Anil and right-wing activist Pratheesh Vishwanath were among those who deliberately spread the news in society. Urging the government to take action against those who propagated the fake news, Firos said the Youth League would soon lodge a complaint with the DGP in this regard. ''There are media houses and individuals who deliberately spread this news in the society...Anil Antony and Pratheesh Vishwanath were among such people. There are those who were not ready to give a correction even after they came to know the truth. So, the government should be ready to take action against them also,'' Firos said. Firos said that while the soldier and his friend were taken into custody by the police, that alone does not bring an end to the problem; usually, the media issues a correction and apology in such cases -- although the damage caused by the news cannot be undone. Rumours Of Ramya Aka Divya Spandana's Death Is Fake; She Will Return To Bengaluru Tomorrow Refuting the charges, Anil said that a section of people were trying to use this one incident to whitewash a large anti-social, anti-national network and their dubious activities -- referring to the PFI. In a post on social media platform X, Anil dubbed politicians of the INDIA alliance, the media, and fact-checkers as the ''terror sympathising gang'' and claimed that they ''seemed to be ruffled'' by some of the recent statements that he made with regard to the soldier faking a communal attack on himself. Anil said that it turned out that the soldier and his friend were ''miscreants'' but it doesn't diminish ''the fact that Kerala is emerging as a dangerous epicentre of radical Islamists''. Just in the last few months, the NIA has busted multiple underground PFI activities with links to ISIS, with a Kerala police officer himself suspended for leaking sensitive information to these terror groups, the BJP spokesperson further alleged. ''And the terror sympathising ecosystem of the various dot dot I.N.D.I alliance partners - @INCIndia @CPIMKerala @kerala_iuml with some of their media and fact-checker friends are using one incident to whitewash a large anti social anti national network and their dubious activities. All of them are dangerous for the country's internal security. @HMOIndia,'' he claimed in his post. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Thursday, September 28, 2023, 15:53 [IST] Massive Manhunt Unfolds In Maine, U.S.; Who Is Robert Card And What Else Is Going On Iconic Agricultural Scientist M S Swaminathan Passes Away; PM, President Condole His Death India pti-PTI M S Swaminathan, renowned agricultural scientist and the driving force behind the nation's 'Green Revolution, passed away here on Thursday. He was 98 and is survived by three daughters including Dr Soumya Swaminathan, the former chief scientist of the World Health Organisation. The celebrated agriculture icon, who was being treated for age-related illness for quite some time passed away today at 11.15 AM at his residence here. Condolences poured in with Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailing Swaminathan saying his groundbreaking work transformed lives of millions, ensured India's food security. Indian Agricultural Research Institute Director A K Singh said an era of agricultural research, education and extension marked by disruptive innovations has come to an end with the death of Swaminathan. Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi, Chief Minister M K Stalin, leaders of farmers' bodies including P R Pandian condoled Swaminathan's death. The Congress party described him as the key scientific architect of the Green Revolution and hailed his contribution to the agriculture sector. Modi said on X: "Deeply saddened by the demise of Dr MS Swaminathan Ji. At a very critical period in our nations history, his groundbreaking work in agriculture transformed the lives of millions and ensured food security for our nation." Recommended Video MS Swaminathan passes away at 98 | Know about father of Indias Green Revolution | Oneindia News Beyond his revolutionary contributions to agriculture, Dr Swaminathan was a powerhouse of innovation and a nurturing mentor to many. His unwavering commitment to research and mentorship has left an indelible mark on countless scientists and innovators. "I will always cherish my conversations with Dr Swaminathan. His passion to see India progress was exemplary. His life and work will inspire generations to come. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti," he said. Former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda expressed grief over the demise of Swaminathan and said he was greatly benefited from his advice on many occasions. Swaminathan who founded the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation here has been described by the United Nations Environment Programme as "the Father of Economic Ecology acknowledging his leadership of green revolution movement. Singh said: "In passing away of Prof. Swaminathan, ends an era of agricultural research, education and extension that was full of disruptive innovation. If God appears to poor and hungry in form of bread as said by Mahatma Gandhi, that God is Dr. Swaminathan who should be worshipped by every citizen while taking daily meals." Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said Swaminathan made India self-sufficient in rice and wheat by the mid-70s. He has received 84 honorary doctorate degrees from universities around the world. He is a Fellow of many of the leading scientific academies including the Royal Society of London and the U S National Academy of Sciences. AICC general secretary K C Venugopal said he was deeply saddened to hear about the demise of Swaminathan. "His contribution to Indian agriculture transformed the lives of millions. We are committed to take his vision forward every opportunity we get," he said. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed grief and said his contribution to India's agricultural progress and economy is immense. Farmer leader Rakesh Tikait said India will always remember the positive changes that Swaminathan brought to the country's agriculture and farmers, and his contribution to food security. Swaminathan was a part of every key initiative connected to food security and agriculture and his stellar contributions are pioneering including the focus on millets for nutrition security as well. He was a former Rajya Sabha member (2007-13). Javier Perez de Cuellar, former Secretary General of the United Nations, said as "a living legend who will go into the annals of history as a world scientist of rare distinction. PTI VGN LUX MJH RKL SKC VGN KH Kanpur Road Rage Case: BJP Workers Stage Protest, Demand Fair Trial India pti-PTI A group of BJP workers protested outside the office of the city police commissioner here demanding a free and fair investigation into the road rage incident involving a BJP corporators husband and his aides, officials said on Thursday. The police on Wednesday announced a cash reward of Rs 25,000 on the arrest of Ankit Shuka, the husband of BJP corporator Saumya Shukla, and his aides for allegedly thrashing medical equipment shop owner Amol Deep Bhatia near the City Club here on Sunday night. Police have formed 10 teams to nab five persons, including Ankit Shukla, and have been looking for the accused in Kanpur and neighbouring districts, an official said on Wednesday. Hours after the police announced the cash reward on the arrests, several BJP workers reached the office of Kanpur police commissioner on Wednesday evening and urged the police to lodge an FIR against Bhatia, Joint Commissioner of Police (law and order) Anand Prakash Tiwari said. The BJP leaders and workers demanded a free and fair investigation into the matter. They even said they would offer court arrest along with ten thousand supporters if justice is not provided to Saumya Shukla, Tiwari said. The protestors were been assured that appropriate action would be taken according to the evidence, he added. BJP Corporator Saumya Shukla posted a video on social media, wherein she claimed that the incident was deliberately being given a religious colour. She said in the video that she belonged to a Brahmin Hindu family and she along with her family ascribed to RSS philosophy as well. Recalling the incident, Saumya Shukla said she was returning from an event with her husband Ankit Shukla and other family members, when an SUV overtook them "violently. She claimed that Bhatia was driving his car under the influence of liquor and did not let them pass for 15-20 minutes. When their car overtook the SUV after getting some space, the SUV again overtook them and allegedly rammed into her vehicle. When the Shuklas objected to his act, Bhatia started passing lewd remarks and also hurled expletives at the couple. He also tried to pull her, resulting in injury in her hand, the corporator said. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Pramod Kumar had on Wednesday said, We have named Ankit Shukla (36), Satendra Bajpai (43), Ankur Singh Rajawat (45), Yashasvi Shukla (27) and Suraj Tiwari in the FIR after they were seen in a CCTV footage. Several sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 147 (rioting), 148 (rioting, being armed with deadly weapons) 149 (unlawful assembly) 326 (voluntarily causing grievous hurt by dangerous weapons or means) were added to the FIR which was initially lodged under section 324 (voluntarily causing hurt by dangerous weapons) 354 (criminal force to woman intending to outrage her modesty) 504 (intentional insult) and 506 (criminal intimidation), the DCP had said. Bhatia alleged that he along with his wife was on the way to their home when his SUV was rammed by the BJP corporator's vehicle near City Club on Sunday night. Following this, Ankit Shukla and his aides allegedly chased Bhatia's vehicle and stopped him. It led to a heated argument and Ankit Shukla and his men thrashed Amol badly due to which Bhatia lost vision in one eye and the infection spread in the second eye as well, the victim's family said. After getting first aid at the Lala Lajpat Rai (LLR) Hospital, Amol was taken to Delhi's Sir Ganga Ram Hospital where his condition is said to be critical, said an official. Karnataka Bandh On September 29: What The Bengaluru Police Commissioner Has To Say India oi-Madhuri Adnal Karnataka Bandh on September 29: A statewide shutdown or 'Karnataka bandh' has been called by the 'Kannada Okkuta,' an umbrella organization representing various Kannada groups. This move is spearheaded by Kannada activist Vatal Nagaraj, and it's in response to the Cauvery water release issue. The bandh is scheduled to last for 12 hours, running from 6 am to 6 pm on the specified day. In a press conference on Thursday, Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayananda said that the section 144 enforced from tonight i.e September 28, which will be in effect from midnight on Thursday to midnight on Friday. Dayananda further stated that no organisation had sought permission for the bandh, and he issued a strong warning against anyone attempting to take the law into their own hands during this period. Under this prohibitory order, which spans from midnight on September 28 to midnight on September 29, all forms of public protest within the city are prohibited. The police will not tolerate any protests, and those participating may face detainment. Notably, protests are only permitted in Freedom Park. The Commissioner has confirmed that a sufficient number of KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) and BMTC (Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation) buses will be available during the bandh. This indicates that public transportation services in the region will continue to operate, ensuring that people can commute as usual during the bandh period. Any organisation that wants to lend their support to the bandh can do so on their own, but they must not force anyone else to participate. If any damage to property occurs during the bandh, the respective protesting organisation will be held accountable for the costs. What will be affected? Organisers have stated their intent to disrupt highways, toll booths, rail services, and even airports. However, BMTC and KSRTC buses are expected to operate as usual on Friday, as employees have been instructed to report to work. Karnataka Bandh: Sec 144 Imposed In Bengaluru: What's Open, Closed On Sep 29? In response to the bandh, schools and colleges have chosen to close their premises for the entire day on Friday. This decision has been made in light of the statewide bandh, which seeks to protest the transfer of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu. On September 29, 2023, ride-sharing services like Ola and Uber will be suspended in solidarity with the bandh, potentially making commuting more challenging. Tomorrow, on 29th September 2023, several organizations in Karnataka are uniting for a state-wide bandh to protest against the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu. The Bengaluru Commissioner of Police emphasises on Supreme Court's ruling that all forms of bandh are forbidden. pic.twitter.com/wANHedBtct BengaluruCityPolice (@BlrCityPolice) September 28, 2023 For the latest information on school closures, parents and students are advised to reach out to their respective school administrations, as schools and universities will make official announcements as necessary. Some private institutions may offer online classes during this period. While schools have the autonomy to decide their course of action, it's worth noting that the general secretary of KAMS expressed a differing opinion, suggesting that full-day classes could be conducted on the following Saturday and Sunday instead. Meanwhile, the Annual Convocation of Bangalore University, originally scheduled for September 26, has been postponed due to the Karnataka Bandh called by Pro-Kannada organizations in protest of the Cauvery Water Dispute. 'No Link Between My Film And The Issue': Actor Siddharth Disappointed After 'Chithha' Event Disrupted Karnataka Bandh: Sec 144 Imposed In Bengaluru: What's Open, Closed On Sep 29? India oi-Prakash KL The Bengaluru City Police has announced the imposition of section 144 in the capital city of Karnataka from Thursday midnight to Friday midnight. "No organization has approached the police department and has not obtained permission for the bandh," Bengaluru city police commissioner B Dayananda said in a press meet on Thursday. He has given a stern warning against those taking the law into their own hands during Friday's bandh. "As per the Supreme Court judgment and Karnataka High Court pronouncement, no protest, procession or rally can be taken in the city of Bengaluru. We are enforcing it very strictly. We have imposed prohibitory orders under section 144 CRPC from the midnight of September 28 to midnight of September 29. During this 144 period, no gathering of five persons will be allowed, However, whoever wants to protest, they can do it at Freedom Park," he stated. Kannada Okkuta', an umbrella organisation for Kannada organisations, on Wednesday claimed that the dawn to dusk bandh called by them on September 29, to protest against release of Cauvery river water to neighbouring Tamil Nadu. As part of the bandh from 6 am to 6 pm on Friday, there will be a massive protest procession from Town Hall to Freedom park in the city, in which people from all walks of life are likely to participate, the organisers said. They have said that the bandh is for the entire Karnataka and that they will try to shut down highways, toll gates, rail services, and airports. What's Open, Closed? It has been learned that BMTC and KSRTC buses will ply like usual on Friday as the authorities have given instructions to the transport employees that they must compulsorily report to work. How Karnataka Bandh Has Become A Boon For Bengalurians The transport corporations have given verbal instructions to their staff that all employees, except those on weekly leave and long-term leave, must compulsorily report for duty. Also, the employees have been ordered not to take part in the bandh and strict action will be taken against those who fail to follow the instructions. The BMTC has requested the police department to provide security to all its depots and deploy forces at bus stops. In the Dakshina Kannada district, bus unions have not extended support to the bandh. Will Schools and Colleges will remain open? Many schools have announced a holiday in view of bandh and most educational institutions are expected to remain closed on Friday. Will Namma Metro Service Be Available? The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) announced the suspension of metro services between Mysore Road and Kengeri stations on Friday due to planned inspection work. The Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) will be performing the 'Statutory Safety Inspection' for the recently constructed extension from Kengeri to Challaghatta, an integral part of Namma Metro's Purple Line. The metro services on Mysuru Road and Baiyappahalli route will be available as usual. There will be no change in the Green Route train services, the BMRCL has said. No Hotels, Street Food Street vendors have fully supported the bandh. There will be a complete shutdown of street vendors and local market street vendors across the state from 6 am to 6 pm, Karnataka Street Vendor Association State President Rangaswami said. Karnataka Bandh: Who Is Supporting Protest Against Cauvery Water Release To Tamil Nadu? The Bengaluru Hotels Association has extended support to the bandh. Hence, restaurants are unlikely to open from dawn to dusk. Likewise, the Autorickshaw Drivers Union and Ola Uber Drivers and Owners Association (OUDOA) are supporting the band. Hence, the cab service is expected to be affected. Meanwhile, the Kempe Gowda International Airport has asked the passengers to plan their travel to and from the airport as it anticipates disruption in the transport service. "Passengers are requested to follow alerts from respective airlines, law enforcement agencies, and media releases for further updates," it said in a statement. Also, essential services like hotels, ambulances, and milk booths will function as usual. Old Slip Voting System Used in Lok Sabha for Passage of Women's Reservation Bill BJP Issues Show Cause Notice To Bidhuri For His Objectionable Remarks Against Danish Ali In LS Will Consider Quitting Lok Sabha If No Action Taken Against Ramesh Bidhuri: Danish Ali LS Speaker Refers Complaints On Danish Ali-Ramesh Bidhuri Matter To Privileges Committee India oi-PTI Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has referred the complaints lodged by several MPs on the issue involving BJP member Ramesh Bidhuri's use of objectionable words against BSP's Danish Ali to the Privileges Committee, sources said on Thursday. While Ali and several other opposition MPs, including Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and DMK's Kanimozhi, wrote to the Speaker seeking action against Bidhuri, some BJP parliamentarians like Nishikant Dubey said the BSP member ''incited'' the South Delhi MP when he was speaking in the House and urged the Chair to look into this as well. Sources said Birla has sent all these complaints to the Privileges Committee headed by BJP MP Sunil Kumar Singh. Bidhuri had made certain derogatory remarks, later expunged from records, targeted at BSP member Danish Ali on September 22 when he was speaking in the Lok Sabha during a discussion on the success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who was present in the House, expressed his regret at the ruling party MP's conduct. As opposition parties rallied around Ali after a video of Bidhuri's remarks went viral triggering an outrage, the Lok Sabha Speaker took ''serious note'' and warned him of ''strict action'' if such behaviour is repeated in the future. The BJP also issued him a show-cause notice. Ali wrote to the Speaker, seeking an enquiry by the Privileges Committee, describing Bidhuri's comments as ''hate speech''. Almost all opposition parties also wrote to Birla, seeking action against him. BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri Breaks His Silence Over Derogatory Remarks In Parliament However, a few BJP MPs, including Dubey, asserted that Ali incited Bidhuri with highly objectionable remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. While Dubey condemned Bidhuri's conduct, he urged the Speaker to look into Ali's behaviour as well. Other BJP MPs echoed the view. In a post on X on Thursday, Dubey thanked the Speaker for referring the matter to the committee. ''It was possible because the BJP has a majority in Lok Sabha,'' he said, as he cited several previous incidents to assert that no committee was formed to probe these issues and nor was anyone punished. In this context, Dubey alleged that the RJD-JD(U)-Congress members were engaged in a fight involving shoes and microphones in 2006, Sonia Gandhi was involved in an incident in 2012 besides the commotion and injuries to parliamentarians in 2014 during the creation of Telangana as a separate state. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Thursday, September 28, 2023, 21:14 [IST] Parineeti Chopra and Raghav Chadha to skip Honeymoon? Here's Why India oi-Sushmita Halder Bollywood actress Parineeti Chopra and her husband AAP MP Raghav Chadha might skip their honeymoon owing to their work commitments. Following their lavish Udaipur wedding, actress Parineeti Chopra and her husband, politician Raghav Chadha, are ready to return to their professional commitments, forgoing a holiday for now. The actress, who took an extended hiatus for the wedding celebrations starting from Delhi, will now resume her work with full vigour. A source close to the couple revealed that Chopra intends to fulfil her work commitments prior to flying off to enjoy some precious moments with her spouse. "At the moment, Parineeti is spending some quality time with her new family, her in-laws in Delhi, and will soon head back to work in Mumbai. She will resume her work schedule, which includes promotion activities of her upcoming film Rani MissionGanj, Also, Raghav has a lot of things lined up with the winter session in Parliament, which is expected to start between November and December," the source was quoted saying. Parineeti-Raghav's Reception Party Invitation Leaked| See Details The wedding celebrations of RagNeeti in Udaipur were extravagant, with themes of pearl-white. The festivities encompassed a haldi, mehendi, sangeet night, wedding ceremony and reception. Following this, they returned to Delhi where they were warmly received with drums and photographers. The source informed the Hindustan Times that the newly-weds have put their honeymoon on hold. "They have pushed everything to a later date due to shraddhs (starting September 29). That's also why they thought of not taking a break and going on a honeymoon. They have pushed all their plans. Meanwhile, Pari is using this time to get to know her extended family and is loving the warmth she's getting from everyone." Parineeti and Raghav shared a long-distance relationship before they officially tied the knot. After marrying, the actress will predominantly settle in Delhi. She has decided to divide her time between Delhi and Mumbai for her work commitments. Parineeti is happy about the new change in her life. First Pic Of Parineeti Chopra, Raghav Chadha As Newlywed Couple Is Out Raghav Chadha and Parineeti announced their engagement in May this year. They have been acquaintances since their time studying together in London. But it was only during the shooting of the film Chamkila in Punjab that their romantic relationship took off. Raghav and Parineeti who initially visited on set as friends, soon began started dating each other. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Thursday, September 28, 2023, 11:55 [IST] Drug Smuggling Case: Punjab Cong Leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira Sent To Police Custody Till Sept 30 India oi-Sushmita Halder The Fazlika's Jalalabad court on Thursday announced judicial custody of Punjab Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira till September 30. Khaira was detained by the Punjab Police early today over alleged drug-related case. Amidst the political rift between the Aam Aadmi Party and the Congress Party over seat sharing in the 2024 Lok Sabha election, Khaira was detained by the Punjab Police after the police raided his house over an alleged drug-related case. #WATCH | Fazlika's Jalalabad court sends Punjab Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira to police custody till September 30 in connection with a drug case. pic.twitter.com/2cDDTkUTl8 ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2023 Khaira took to his social media account to show how the Jalalabad police officials raided his residence and arrested him over an alleged 2015 drug-related case. Khaira's Facebook account shows the Congress leader arguing with the police during the raid. Khaira was seen charging the police to show an arrest warrant and inquiring them to reveal the reason behind the arrest. Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira detained by Punjab Police in connection with a 2015 case registered under the NDPS Act (Video source - Sukhpal Singh Khaira's Facebook) pic.twitter.com/vIXzC7GRPJ ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2023 Recommended Video Punjab: Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira arrested by Punjab Police in drugs case | Oneindia News Reacting to Khaira's queries, the police official who introduces himself as DSP Jalalabad Acchru Ram Sharma is seen informing Khaira that he is being arrested for an old NDPS case. The Jalalabad Police on Thursday arrested Khaira from his residence during a raid related to an alleged drug-related case registered against him under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Punjab: Lookout Circular Issued Against BJP's Ex-Minister Manpreet Singh Badal This comes after AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal announced that his party would contest all 13 seats in the Lok Sabha elections following which Congress declared that it would contest all the seats in Punjab alone. Tensions mounted between both the parties who are members of the Opposition Bloc INDIA. The Shiromani Akali Dal took to social media to condemn the arrest, tagging it as a "political vendetta". "Political differences aside - Shiromani Akali Dal Amritsar condemns the arrest borne out of the witch hunt and political vendetta against Bholath MLA and a very respected Sukhpal Jhaira Ji, a fierce critic of Bhagwant Mann and AAP led Punjab government. What promised to be a 'badlav' is turning out to be a horror show," the post on X (formerly Twitter) reads. Meanwhile, Khaira was recently in the headlines for taking a dig at AAP MP Raghav Chadha for spending huge money on his lavish wedding. Khaira took to his X handle, formerly Twitter, "Being a public figure he is answerable for such mega spendings." Teenager Allegedly Raped by Congress Corporator in Shivpuri, Forced to Abort Pregnancy In Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh, police have registered a case against Sagar Ghavri, a Congress corporator for allegedly raping a minor girl and forcing her to undergo an abortion. Ghavri also threatened the victim with circulating video footage of the assault. The case has been filed under Indian Penal Code (IPC) for rape and abduction along with Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. India -Krishna Kripa In a shocking incident in Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh, a Congress corporator has been accused of raping a teenager and compelling her to have an abortion. The police have filed charges against the alleged perpetrator, Sagar Ghavri. Allegations against the Corporator Sagar Ghavri, 30 years old and resident of Pichhore town, is alleged to have filmed the sexual assault on the minor girl. He then supposedly exploited her by threatening to circulate this video. According to official reports, Ghavri took the victim who was four months pregnant at that time, for an abortion in Jhansi town in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh on September 25. The Victim's Ordeal When the girl did not return home following this ordeal, her concerned parents lodged a missing person report with local law enforcement authorities. Sub-Divisional Officer of Police (SDOP), Prashant Sharma confirmed this development. Upon her return home after enduring such trauma, she bravely reported these crimes against herself leading to registration of FIR (First Information Report) against Ghavri. FIR Registered under Various Sections The police registered an FIR on Wednesday under various sections of Indian Penal Code (IPC) including rape and abduction along with sections from Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Although she was a minor when these heinous acts were committed upon her; she turned 18 at the time when FIR was registered as per official sources. The search is currently underway for arresting the accused corporator. Action Taken by Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee In response to these grave allegations against one of their members, Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) acted swiftly by expelling Ghavri from primary membership. This move is seen as an attempt to maintain the party's image and standing among its supporters. In conclusion, this incident has not only brought forth the issue of sexual violence against minors but also raises questions about the moral accountability of individuals in power. It underlines the urgency for stringent actions against such offenders irrespective of their political affiliations or social standing. The courage shown by the young survivor in reporting her ordeal must be lauded and it is hoped that justice will be delivered swiftly. Indian Spiritual Gurus Recognized by US Congress for Global Peace Initiatives The US Congress has honored two prominent Indian spiritual leaders, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and Acharya Lokesh Muni, acknowledging their efforts in promoting global peace. The recognitions were made by Indian American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi. India -Krishna Kripa In a significant recognition of Indian spiritual leadership and its global impact, the US Congress has acknowledged the contributions of two renowned Indian spiritual leaders, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and Acharya Lokesh Muni. The commendation comes in light of their relentless efforts towards fostering global peace and harmony. Recognition for Commitment to Peace and Harmony The acknowledgement was made by Indian American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi during his speech in the House of Representatives. He lauded Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar for his life-long dedication to serving others. His message of peace coupled with an unwavering commitment to education and humanitarianism have been instrumental in promoting betterment across communities worldwide. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: A Global Humanitarian Krishnamoorthi further described Gurudev as a global humanitarian and spiritual leader whose influence spans over four decades. He noted that through programs deeply rooted in meditation and yoga, Gurudev has guided countless individuals, including those from Illinois, on their journey towards inner peace. This belief is not just confined within personal boundaries but extends to real-world scenarios where internal tranquility can lead to measurable reductions in violence and conflict. Acharya Lokesh Muni: A Beacon of Interfaith Harmony Alongside recognizing Gurudev's contributions, Krishnamoorthi also commended Acharya Lokesh Muni for his lifetime commitment towards promoting peace, religious tolerance, and universal values. Having dedicated himself at a young age to study Jainism, Buddhism, and Vedic philosophy extensively; Acharya Dr.Lokesh Muni Jis teachings have significantly influenced interfaith understanding. The Congressman highlighted how Acharya Dr.Lokesh Muni Ji has committed himself wholeheartedly to promote peaceful co-existence among different faith groups. His teachings have played a pivotal role in fostering tolerance and understanding among various religious communities, thereby promoting global peace. Conclusion The recognition of these two Indian spiritual leaders by the US Congress underscores the universal appeal and relevance of their teachings. It also highlights the significant role that such spiritual leaders play in promoting global peace, harmony, and mutual respect across diverse cultures and religions. Their work serves as an inspiring testament to how personal inner peace can translate into broader societal transformations towards non-violence and conflict resolution. Why Hyundai And Kia Are Recalling 34 Lakh Vehicles? India oi-PTI Hyundai and Kia are recalling nearly 3.4 million vehicles (34 lakh) in the U.S. and telling owners to park them outside due to the risk of engine compartment fires. The recalls cover multiple car and SUV models from the 2010 through 2019 model years including Hyundai's Santa Fe SUV and Kia's Sorrento SUV. Documents posted Wednesday by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration say the anti-lock brake control module can leak fluid and cause an electrical short, which can touch off a fire while the vehicles are parked or being driven. The automakers are advising owners to park outdoors and away from structures until repairs are done. Dealers will replace the anti-lock brake fuse at no cost to owners. Kia says in documents that it will send notification letters to owners starting Nov. 14. For Hyundai the date is Nov. 21. Hyundai reported 21 fires in the affected vehicles in the U.S., and another 22 "thermal incidents" including smoke, burning and melting of parts, the documents say. Kia reported 10 fires and melting incidents. Hyundai said in a statement that owners can continue to drive the vehicles and that no crashes or injuries have been reported. 'No compromise on territorial integrity': Govt's strong words after Hyundai Pakistan's Kashmir post The automaker said it was doing the recall to ensure safety of its customers. The company said an O-ring in the antilock brake motor shaft can lose sealing strength over time due to the presence of moisture, dirt and dissolved metals in the brake fluid, causing leaks. The new fuse limits the operating current of the brake module, the statement said. In a statement, Kia said an engine compartment fire could happen in the area of the brake control unit due to an electrical short that results in excessive current. The statement says the exact cause of the short circuit is unknown and that there have been no crashes or injuries. Michael Brooks, executive director of the nonprofit Center for Auto Safety, questioned why the companies aren't fixing the leak problem and why they are waiting so long to send letters to owners. The remedy is replacing one fuse with another, but brake fluid can still leak, potentially causing a safety problem, Brooks said. "Why not fix the problem?" he asked. "What you're not doing here is fixing the O-ring and the leak that's causing the problem in the first place. You're combatting a symptom or part of the problem without actually fixing the underlying design issue." Brooks also questioned why NHTSA is allowing the companies to only replace a fuse, and why owners aren't being sent interim letters immediately warning them of a serious problem. "You would think that you should be notifying those owners right now that they shouldn't be parking in their garages or their house could catch fire," he said. Statements from both companies don't address why the fluid leaks aren't being repaired or why it will take about two months to notify owners by letter. Spokespeople for both companies said they would check into the questions. NHTSA said that under the federal motor vehicle safety act, automakers can choose the remedy to fix a defect. The agency said it will monitor the effectiveness of the repairs and open an investigation if warranted. In addition, automakers have 60 days to notify owners of recalled vehicles by letter, but often the mailings can happen sooner, the agency said. NHTSA also issued a statement Wednesday warning owners to park the vehicles outdoors until repairs are made. Affected Kia models include the 2010 through 2019 Borrego, the 2014 to 2016 Cadenza, 2010 through 2013 Forte, Forte Koup and Sportage, the 2015 to 2018 K900, the 2011 to 2015 Optima, the 2011 to 2013 Optima Hybrid and Soul, the 2012 to 2017 Rio, the 2011 to 2014 Sorento, and the 2010 to 2011 Rondo. Hyundai models covered by the recall include the 2011 to 2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, and Sonata Hybrid, the 2012 to 2015 Accent, Azera, and Veloster, the 2013 to 2015 Elantra Coupe and Santa Fe, the 2014 to 2015 Equus, the 2010 to 2012 Veracruz, the 2010 to 2013 Tucson, the 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and the 2013 Santa Fe Sport. Owners can go to www.nhtsa.gov/recalls and key in their 17-digit vehicle identification number to see if their vehicle is affected. EAM Jaishankar discusses Hyundai issue with counterpart of ROK Hyundai and Kia have been plagued by fire problems since 2015. The Center for Auto Safety successfully petitioned U.S. regulators to seek recalls in 2018 and says on its website that the automakers have recalled more than 9.2 million vehicles for fires and engine problems, not including the recalls announced Wednesday. More than two dozen of the recalls involved over 20 models from the 2006 through 2021 model years. In addition, NHTSA is investigating 3 million vehicles made by the automakers from the 2011 through 2016 model years. NHTSA says it's received 161 complaints of engine fires, some of which occurred in vehicles that had already been recalled. In June 2018, NHTSA said it had received owner complaints of more than 3,100 fires, 103 injuries and one death. Hyundai and Kia were fined by NHTSA in 2020 for moving too slowly to recall vehicles that were prone to engine failures. Does a Judges Fraud Finding Spell the End for Trumps Real Estate Empire? A recent ruling by Judge Arthur Engoron might be a significant blow to former President Donald Trump's real estate empire. The judge found that Trump and his organization have routinely deceived banks, insurers, and others by overvaluing assets and exaggerating net worth on paperwork used in deals and securing loans. International -Sathish Raman The recent ruling by Judge Arthur Engoron, which found former president Donald Trump and his company guilty of fraud, has raised questions about the future of Trump's real estate empire. The decision strips Trump's companies of their New York-issued business licenses and places some of them under the control of a court-appointed receiver. The former president has strongly criticized this ruling, labeling it as the "KILL TRUMP" decision. Implications of the Ruling While Trump appears to view this ruling as an existential threat to his businesses, Judge Engoron himself is not so certain about its implications. In a hearing on Wednesday following the announcement of his decision, he told Trump's lawyers that he was not yet prepared to discuss what impact it might have on the former president's company or on properties bearing his name. Judge Engoron is set to preside over a non-jury trial next week that will address remaining issues in New York Attorney General Letitia James' civil lawsuit against Trump. He acknowledged that these recent developments have significantly altered "the contours of the case", but refrained from commenting further on how they might affect real-world outcomes. Fraud Findings In a detailed 35-page opinion released Tuesday, Judge Engoron concluded that both Donald Trump and his company, The Trump Organization, had consistently deceived banks, insurers and other parties involved in making deals or securing loans with them. They did so by greatly inflating their assets' value and overstating Donald Trump's net worth in official paperwork. This fraudulent behavior was routine for them; it formed part of their standard operating procedures when engaging in business transactions. This finding forms an integral part of why some control over companies owned by Donald Trump has now been transferred to a court-appointed receiver. Trumps Response Trump's legal team has announced their intention to appeal Judge Engoron's decision. They maintain that the ruling is unjust and have expressed their determination to fight it in higher courts. Meanwhile, Trump himself continues to decry the verdict publicly. He posted a message on his Truth Social platform on Wednesday, expressing his outrage over what he perceives as an attempt to "kill" him and his businesses. In conclusion, while this recent fraud finding against Donald Trump and The Trump Organization does present significant challenges for them, it remains unclear how much of a threat it poses to their continuing business operations. Much will depend on the outcomes of next week's trial and any subsequent appeals lodged by Trump's lawyers. Regardless of these legal battles' eventual results, however, one thing is clear: this case represents another significant blow to Donald Trumps public image and credibility. 2008-2023 One News Page Ltd. All rights reserved. One News is a registered trademark of One News Page Ltd. After Azerbaijan's recapture of the breakaway republic of Nagorno-Karabakh, tens of thousands of ethnic Armenians have fled to Armenia. The Armenian prime minister expects even more to arrive in the coming days. Police in Rotterdam in the Netherlands say that a gunman dressed in combat gear opened fire first in an apartment and then the university medical center nearby. The 32-year-old suspect was armed with a handgun. Democratic Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker unleashed an assault on Republican state lawmakers over their criticism of his secret deal with a Chinese electric vehicle company. Roughly 16 hours after police and cash-in-transit robbers exchanged heavy gunfire in Booysens, Johannesburg, the body of a suspected robber lay face down on the M1 highway. Italy currently allows cryptocurrencies and online gambling separately but has not yet brought them together due to several key factors. Lets dive into what these factors entail and what the future of online gambling in Italy could hold. Cryptocurrencies have seen a meteoric rise in popularity over the past few years. Many countries around the world, including Italy, are embracing cryptocurrencies. However, opinions may differ when it comes to online gambling and the crypto space. In Italy, cryptocurrencies are legal and fully regulated by the government. Online gambling is also legal, and there are many top-rated sites that are licensed by the ADM. However, crypto and online casinos have not yet been brought together. Italian Crypto Gambling Hurdles While Bitcoin is a safe and convenient payment method for many Italians, not having access to the same options when playing online can be frustrating. There appear to be 4 main reasons why the government has not yet made cryptocurrencies legal at online casinos. Lets take a closer look. Local Laws and Regulations The current laws in the country forbid online casino operators from adding cryptocurrencies of any kind as payment options. The biggest factor contributing to this law is the Italian government's lack of trust in the complete safety of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. It is believed that the blockchain lacks security, which is a claim that may confuse many as crypto is seen as one of the safest currency options around. But it allows for complete anonymity, which is what the Italian government is fighting for. Money laundering is a large focus for the ADM, and the decentralised nature of the blockchain means insufficient control or information is available. Casinos that run under the AAMS license are required to track all transactions, and this cannot be done when cryptocurrency is involved. Finally, the tax laws surrounding cryptocurrency in Italy are high. For every transaction over 2000, a tax of 26% is applied. This means that casinos and those who use crypto will need to pay large amounts in tax for each transaction. AML and KYC Compliance All regulated operators who want to ensure that their players stay safe will abide by KYC and AML policies. These policies ensure that customers are correctly identified and that they can afford to play online casino games. Due to the anonymous nature of cryptocurrencies, these policies are not easily upheld. It was one of the main reasons the Italian government banned crypto tokens at igaming sites. Money laundering can very easily be accomplished at online casinos, even via standard fiat payment methods. Its even easier through crypto, where every transaction can be anonymous and not easily tracked on the blockchain. The ADM insists that AML practices come first, and that means cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Litecoin, cant be welcomed. Keeping KYC policies active is another challenge. While its not impossible to learn more about a player even if they use crypto, many dont want to supply personal information when they are playing anonymously on the blockchain. But KYC (or Know Your Customer) is important for many reasons. Casinos need to know that the player theyre welcoming is above the legal gambling age, hasnt been excluded from online gambling before, and is legally allowed to gamble in the country. Tech-Related Challenges One of the unknown costs behind using cryptocurrencies at an online casino (or any business) is its possible weight on networks and applications. Implementing crypto in its many forms and maintaining the network in order to keep players happy can be expensive. More than just the expense of maintaining networks, implementing crypto is a specialised skill set that your standard tech worker may not have. This means that online casinos would be required to hire a trained individual or team to ensure that the technology behind offering cryptocurrencies works as it should. Finally, extra security may be required as the Italian government wants to make sure that players, their funds, and their personal information is as safe as possible. This means that new systems would have to be designed, set in place, and maintained to keep the good reputation of Italian online casinos intact. Risk and Volatility Finally, the risky and volatile nature of cryptocurrency is the last straw for the Italian government. We all know that investing in any crypto can be a risk as the markets change each day, but this hasnt stopped millions of people around the world from taking the leap. Due to the volatility that comes with the crypto world, Italian online casinos stand to lose large sums of money if the market tips in the wrong direction. This is not a risk theyre currently willing to take. However, there are many crypto casinos around the world that are able to plan and account for these changes without hefty losses. When Italian casinos finally open their doors to the crypto market, this is something they will need to consider. Where to From Here? While all of these factors may be a reality right now, the Italian government may look at changing many of the laws in place to make the igaming industry more welcoming to crypto. With many players calling for this to become a reality, it could happen sooner than originally expected. For now, Italian punters are welcome to visit foreign casinos as this is legal in the region, as long as they are licensed by Curacao or the MGA. These Non AAMS casinos often welcome crypto transactions. At the prestigious SBC Summit Barcelona 2023, BGaming stole the spotlight as it melded gaming and artistry under its innovative 'When Art Meets Gaming' initiative. This engagement marked another milestone for BGaming, further embellishing its aura in the iGaming industry through a distinctive artistic alliance with Spanish muralist Jay Kaes. The SBC Summit held in Barcelona served as a significant platform for BGaming, enabling the illustrious iGaming content provider to flaunt its recent Spanish certification and its latest gaming concoctions. The event was a golden chance for BGaming to rekindle associations with longstanding partners and weave new connections in the vibrant tapestry of the iGaming sector. By utilizing this platform, BGaming articulated its core ethos, exhibited its wide-ranging gaming array, and broadened its professional nexus. When Art Breathes Life into Gaming Demonstrating a relentless pursuit of creativity, BGaming partnered with the gifted Spanish muralist Jay Kaes, who lent his artistic flair to rejuvenate the studio's cherished characters from popular titles like Book of Cats, Penny Pelican, and Elvis Frog. This collaboration follows in the aesthetic footsteps of earlier successes with Dutch street artist I AM EECLO and pop-culture savant Thumbs at iGB Live and ICE London, respectively. The Cornucopia of Offerings The Summit showcased BGaming's rich portfolio of over 100 engaging games. It spotlighted the latest entrants like Mice & Magic Wonder Spin, Bone Bonanza, and Gemhalla, as well as the dice-themed series crowned by Wild Cash Dice, Dice Million, and Dice Bonanza. A particular highlight was the showcase of BGaming's burgeoning alliance with Blaze Casino, narrating a tale of customization triumph. Bridging the Gaming-Charity Gap In a novel gesture, BGaming revealed an exclusive merchandise collection comprising hoodies, t-shirts, and more. It also presented an alternative to channel an equivalent sum to UNICEF for the Morocco Earthquake relief, extending its legacy of charity from previous exhibitions. Kate Puteiko, the CMO at BGaming, reminisced about the fruitful engagements at the Summit, celebrating the joy of networking and the anticipation brewing for BGaming's participation in the upcoming SiGMA Europe Summit 2023. Prepping for Future Spectacles As the curtains fell on the SBC Summit, anticipation soared for BGaming's forthcoming appearance at SiGMA Europe Summit 2023. The prep for a fourth avant-garde collaboration with a local street artist in Malta is underway, keeping the iGaming community on its toes. BGaming continues to transcend the conventional boundaries of iGaming, embodying an ethos of innovation and engagement. Through its pioneering initiatives and alliances, BGaming is transforming the face of gambling and creating a colorful bridge between gaming and a broader artistic and charitable landscape, painting a promising picture for the industry's future. In a notable policy change, Sweden's government has proposed increasing the gambling tax rate, drawing concerns from the online gaming industry. The Proposed Tax Hike Sweden's government, Regeringen, is considering an amendment that would see the gambling tax rate in the country jump from the current 18% to 22% of the gross gaming revenue (GGR). Should this proposal gain approval, it would be implemented from 1 July 2024 and is estimated to yield an additional SEK540.0m (39.3m/45.5m/$48.4m) in tax revenue annually. Rationale Behind the Change Regeringen has backed its proposal by highlighting several points: Market Stabilization: After the re-regulation in 2019, Sweden opened its gaming doors, enabling operators to acquire licenses and legally offer gambling services. The government believes the market has stabilized, making it the right time for a tax adjustment. Enhanced Channelisation: With concerns about channelization in Sweden's gambling market, Regeringen suggests that a tax rate above 20% will help achieve a channelization rate of at least 90%. The 18% tax rate has been in place since the 2019 re-regulation. With steps taken to weed out unlicensed gambling operations, the government believes that the market can bear a higher tax bracket. Increased Revenue for Government Activities: The increment is seen as a measure to bolster the financing of governmental initiatives without having an excessively negative impact on the enterprises and the size of the tax base. Industry's Response: Not All in Agreement The Online Gaming Industry Association (BOS) is disappointed with the proposed hike. Gustaf Hoffstedt, the Secretary-general of BOS, was vocal in his criticism, arguing that the government might not fully understand the dynamics and vulnerabilities of the gambling market it intends to govern. Backing his claims with data, Hoffstedt drew attention to a BOS report from June, which pointed out that only 77% of Sweden's igaming market is channelized. This, according to BOS, is alarmingly low. Moreover, the study revealed that specific gambling verticals, including online casinos, have a channelization rate as low as 72%. Hoffstedt warned against straying from the government's goal of maintaining a 90% channelization. If the proposed tax increase is endorsed, he fears the channelization might decline to levels observed before the 2019 re-regulation. Conclusion: The potential rise in Sweden's gambling tax is a contentious topic, pitting governmental revenue aims against industry stability and growth concerns. As the debate heats up, the industry awaits the final decision, hoping that growth and responsible gaming can be sustained. Omni Slots Casino Review Transparency stands at the forefront of OmniSlots Casino, as theres a clear dedication towards consumer safety. Youll be protected while participating in the gambling services at OmniSlots. All the while, monthly promotions are released to heighten the experience for registered members. 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When needing to contact support specialists, youll need to use one of these options. We suggest using Live Chat for improved response times & immediate solutions to various questions. Theres an FAQ Page to further the assistance at OmniSlots Casino. Generalized questions amongst the community can potentially be answered by reviewing the FAQ Page. If you cannot locate an answer, contacting support specialists is needed. Support methods Email, Live Chat 24/7 Support Available Noam Chomsky made his name as a linguist, which is easy to forget amid the wide range of subjects he has addressed, and continues to address, in his long career as a public intellectual. But on a deeper level, his commentary on politics, society, media, and a host of other broad fields sounds not unlike a natural outgrowth of his specialized linguistic theories. Throughout the past five or six decades, hes occasionally made the connection explicit, or nearly so, by drawing analogies between language and other domains of human activity. Take the panel-discussion clip above, in which Chomsky faces the question of why he doesnt accept the notion of cultural relativism, which holds moral norms as not absolute but created wholly within particular cultural contexts. There are no skeptics, Chomsky says. You can discuss it in a philosophy seminar, but no human being can, in fact, be a skeptic. They wouldnt survive for two minutes if they were. I think pretty much the same is true of moral relativism. There are no moral relativists: there are people who profess it, you can discuss it abstractly, but it doesnt exist in ordinary life. He identifies a tendency to move from the uncontroversial concept of moral relativism that, say, certain cultures at certain times hold certain moral values, and other cultures at other times hold other ones to a concept that is, in fact, incoherent, and that is to say that moral values can range indefinitely, tethered to no objective basis. If morality is transmitted through culture, how does a person acquire his or her culture? You dont get it by taking a pill. You acquire your culture by observing a rather limited number of behaviors and actions, and from those, constructing, somehow, in your mind, the set of attitudes and beliefs that constitutes culture. He draws a natural comparison between this process and that of language acquisition, which also depends on having a rich built-in array of constraints that allow the leap from scattered data to whatever it is that you acquire. Thats virtually logic. And so, even if youre the most extreme cultural relativist, you are presupposing universal moral values. Those can be discovered. When he spoke of the most extreme cultural relativist, he was thinking of Michel Foucault? Back in 1971, Chomsky engaged the French philosopher of power in a debate, broadcast on Dutch television, about human nature and the origin of morality. There he practically lead with linguistics: a child learning to talk starts with the knowledge that hes hearing a human language of a very narrow and explicit type that permits a very small range of variation. This highly organized and very restrictive schematism allows him to make the huge leap from scattered and degenerate data to highly organized knowledge. This mechanism is one fundamental constituent of human nature, in not just language but other domains of human intelligence and other domains of human cognition and even behavior as well. Perhaps we do have the freedom to speak, think, and act however we wish but that very freedom, if Chomsky is correct, emerges only within strict, absolute, wholly un-relative natural boundaries. Related content: Michel Foucault and Noam Chomsky Debate Human Nature & Power on Dutch TV (1971) An Animated Introduction to Michel Foucault, Philosopher of Power A Brief Animated Introduction to Noam Chomskys Linguistic Theory, Narrated by The X-Files Gillian Anderson Michel Foucault Offers a Clear, Compelling Introduction to His Philosophical Project (1966) Noam Chomsky Explains the Best Way for Ordinary People to Make Change in the World, Even When It Seems Daunting Moralities of Everyday Life: A Free Online Course from Yale University Based in Seoul, Colin Marshall writes and broadcasts on cities, language, and culture. His projects include the Substack newsletter Books on Cities, the book The Stateless City: a Walk through 21st-Century Los Angeles and the video series The City in Cinema. Follow him on Twitter at @colinmarshall or on Facebook. The answer is YES. No matter what the source of the leak, whether it be from your kitchen tap or your central heating system, if you are able to determine the location of where the problem lies then it is possible to fix it yourself. However, it is often worthwhile paying a professional to do this job for you as it is very difficult to determine the source of a Denver, CO - September 1, 2023 - Tru Automotive, your trusted local auto repair shop for over a decade, is thrilled to invite the Denver community to our upcoming Annual Open House Event on Saturday, September 30, 2023. This exciting event will take place from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm at our location at 930 W Mississippi Avenue, Denver, CO 80223. The Tru Automotive Annual Open House Event promises to be Asbury Park, NJ - HedmanSoto.com, the online destination known for its premium kitchenware accessories, is embarking on an exciting new journey by expanding its product range to include an exclusive Tea Collection. This expansion marks a significant milestone for the brand, which has earned its reputation as a curator of culinary excellence. Hedman Soto, the visionary behind HedmanSoto.com, brings a wealth of experience from the home industry. His notable tenure alongside **TEMECULA, CA -** Puptqe, a revolutionary dog-centric bar, is set to open its doors this November at the bustling Temecula Promenade in California. More than just a store, Puptqe is a haven for dogs and a tribute to the extraordinary bond they share with humans, conceived out of a personal journey with a beloved dog, Champ. In navigating through Champ's Addison's disease diagnosis, the founders experienced first-hand the myriad of emotions, Driving digital transformation in the Defence sector to accelerate innovation and the delivery of new capabilities will be the focus for the inaugural Australian Digital Engineering Summit in November 17. The one-day summit will be held at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Canberra at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) and virtually. It will provide an ideal platform for the Defence community to discuss insights and collaborate to advance Annie Lane is off this week. The following column was originally published in 2019 Dear Annie: I consider myself to be a self-aware social media poster. However, there is a family member on Facebook who posts her childcare needs at least once a week. She posts the day and time she needs and has said the names of the children who need a sitter. She has three children. Her circumstance is difficult as she is going through a divorce. I am not particularly close with her, but not in a bad way. I, too, have been a single mother and know how difficult it can be to find cheap, reliable childcare. There is part of me that wants to message her to tell her how unsafe it is to continually post when her children will be alone with a sitter, but I guess this is her business. Annie, should I bring up my concerns with her? -- Worried for the Kids Dear Worried for the Kids: She is a family member, and you are both single mothers. Yes, by all means bring up your concerns with her. Kids come first, and if you think that what she is doing is unsafe for them, then say something sooner rather than later. Maybe even offer to help take care of her kids when she is in a pinch so that she is not so desperate to post it on social media. Perhaps you could offer her some of the ways you found a sitter without announcing it to everyone on social media. Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com. COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS.COM Qabil Ashirov The local anti-terrorist measures that have been ongoing in Azerbaijan for a long time have finally yielded the greatest results. On September 27, Armenian-born Russian oligarch Ruben Vardanyan was detained in Azerbaijan when he tried illegally and covertly to cross the Lachin Border Checkpoint. It is worth noting that he was born in an ordinary Soviet family in Armenia and after school, he went to Moscow for higher education. In Moscow, he made his fortune and became one the richest men not only in Armenia but also in CIS countries. Many believe that he became a billionaire through some criminal affairs, especially since his name is linked with money laundering. Besides, he was one of the patrons who illegally invested in the formerly occupied territories of Azerbaijan and was a supporter of the separatist gang in Khankendi. When the Ukrainian War broke out, the Western countries started to impose sanctions on the Russian oligarchs. To evade the sanctions, Ruben Vardanyan denounced Russian citizenship and illegally came to Garabagh. Soon, he became the minister of state in the so-called republic. Many believed that he was parachuted into the position because Moscow plans to replace Pashinyan with him. It should be mentioned that he was an ardent separatist and after his arrival, separatism in Azerbaijan's Garabagh gained further motivation. But the fate of the criminal millionaire brought him to Baku in handcuffs... Former diplomat, professor Farid Shafiyev told Azernews that the separatist Vardanyan is guilty of several very serious felonies - breaches of Azerbaijan's criminal code, actions against Azerbaijan's constitutional order and against Azerbaijan's territorial integrity, participation in illegal armed groups, and several other crimes. I think a more detailed, more legal analysis will be given by the Prosecutor General Office and other relevant authorities. However, it is important that justice is delivered. People should know that criminals and warlords, who are guilty of destroying Azerbaijanis' lives, jeopardizing security, and threatening national security will be punished. That is an important point, he said. Farid Shafiyev pointed out that the detention of Ruben indeed serves as a lesson to other warlords and criminals. I think Azerbaijan will be chasing and persecuting other war criminals. As for amnesty, he mentioned that Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev spoke about the amnesty in May and that was the offer prior to the Anti-terrorist activities. During and after the Anti-terrorist Activities, the Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration Hikmet Hajiyev also said that those who surrender will be given amnesty. I think amnesty will be given to the persons who surrender; to those who express remorse and a sort of excuse for openly taking arms and acting against Azerbaijan's sovereignty and integrity. We have never heard such kind of behavior from Ruben Vardanyan up until the latest moment. If I am not mistaken, even yesterday he gave an interview on the France 24 news channel and spoke against Azerbaijan's territorial integrity. Thus, I think that he will be brought to the trial, he added. To recall, Armenia invaded Garabagh and seven adjacent districts in the First Garabagh War in the 1990s. During the First Garabagh War Armenian armed groups committed massacres in different residential areas such as Khojaly, Meshali, etc., and expelled 750,000 people from their hometowns. The war stopped in 1994 and from that time Azerbaijan conducted negotiations to resolve the war peacefully. However, due to the Armenian maximalist approaches the negotiations reached a deadlock. To top it all off, the Armenian side attacked Azerbaijan in September 2020 and Azerbaijan was obliged to conduct the counter-offensive military operations that called the Second Garabagh War or the 44-day War. The Second Garabagh War lasted 44 days and finished with the Russian-brokered November 10 declaration. Azerbaijan liberated most of its invaded territories, except Khankendi and a few districts. According to the provisions of the Declaration, the Armenians in Khankendi should have handed over their weapons, the reintegration process between Azerbaijan and Armenian residents in Garabagh should have started and Azerbaijani IDPs should have returned to their hometowns. However, after several months the Armenian side commenced to violate the provisions and commit provocations and sabotage against Azerbaijan. It is worth noting that the arrival of Ruben Vardan at Khankendi played a big role in this process. As a result, Azerbaijan once again was obliged to start anti-terrorist activities on September 19, 2023. The anti-terror activities lasted less than a day and the Armenian armed groups accepted Azerbaijan's condition to hand over their weapons. Joe Cronin, take a bow. There could be no more unpleasant task for the Portland Trail Blazers general manager than trading a franchise icon like Damian Lillard, and its difficult to imagine how Cronin could have handled it any better. The man suspected of killing a 6-year-old Vallejo, California, boy in 1987 is expected to be booked into Solano County Jail and face a murder charge with special circumstances, Solano County District Attorney Krishna Abrams said. Speaking at a Tuesday morning press conference in her offices law library in Fairfield, she recounted some of the previously published details of Fred Marion Cain IIIs Sept. 18 arrest near Medford, Ore., news that gained statewide attention after the release of a press statement Thursday. She also provided new information about the case not mentioned in last weeks prepared statement, including the name of the victim, Jeremy Floyd Stoner, who, according to the criminal complaint filed last week, was killed on or about Feb. 21, 1987, in Solano County. Additionally, Abrams cited previous felony convictions against Cain who today is 69, white-haired and bearded in Contra Costa County Superior Court on May 22, 1979. He was found guilty of sodomy, rape by the use of an intoxicating substance, burglary, and first-degree burglary. The DAs Office provided a 14-by-20-inch color photo of Stoner, smiling and clad in a gray Mickey Mouse T-shirt, perched on a tripod mount to the left of her lectern. Abrams also noted she reinstated the Cold Case Unit in her office after being first elected in 2014 and credited new DNA analysis and two cold case investigators, Steve Howisey and Kevin Coelho, for working tirelessly to solve a case she described as every parents worst nightmare, adding that Stoners death wracked the whole community of Vallejo. Howisey, she said, took another look at the case in October 2022, obtaining evidence that showed a match for the initial suspect in the case, Shawn Melton, who, after a trial and retrial, with juries unable to reach unanimous verdicts, was released from custody and eventually exonerated. So investigators determined DNA could lead to another suspect, and it led to Cain, who, Abrams said, was initially interviewed after the killing, on March 3, 1987, but was not taken into custody. In response to a question of how Cains DNA was obtained, she declined to specify, saying she did not want to divulge details at this time, to protect the integrity of the case, but they would emerge during a preliminary hearing. DNA is such a powerful and important tool, said Abrams. It can solve crimes and exonerate people. At one point, she said Melton died some years ago at age 38 without knowing he was exonerated. Cain, she said, did know the child and was not living in Vallejo at the time of the killing. Howisey and Coelho, with members of the Jackson County Sheriffs Office, arrested Cain at his home in Central Point, just north of Medford on Interstate 5. Cain, Coelho said, was compliant with officers commands. A former Vallejo police officer, Coelho described the investigation as very lengthy, recalling that the case has been talked about for years by Vallejo officers and others, adding that he took a personal interest in this case. In last weeks press statement, Abrams noted Stoner was abducted near his home in Vallejo. Four days after he went missing, his body was discovered on Sherman Island in Sacramento County. An autopsy revealed that the boy had been sexually assaulted. Fielding a question during the press conference, she declined to provide details about how Stoner was killed. She did, however, provide additional details about why Melton initially was named as a suspect in the case and arrested. She said Melton walked into the Vallejo Police Department and appeared to have his own investigative service and provided information, as Abrams explained last week, only the person responsible for the childs death would know. Cain, after his arrest, waived extradition, Abrams said, and will be transferred to Solano County Jail to face a murder charge with, according to the criminal complaint, special-circumstance allegations of kidnapping, sodomy, and a lewd and lascivious act on a child under 14. On Tuesday afternoon, Abrams told The Reporter that, given the charges against Cain, he is eligible for the death penalty at this time, but we will not make the final decision until after the preliminary hearing is concluded. ___ (c)2023 The Reporter, Vacaville, Calif. Visit The Reporter, Vacaville, Calif. at https://www.thereporter.com/ Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. An Oregon resident recently charged with murdering 6-year-old Jeremy Stoner in 1987 is now a prime suspect in the equally brutal killing of 9-year-old Eric Coy, multiple law enforcement sources have confirmed. Fred Marion Cain III, 69, was charged last week with murder during kidnapping and sexual assault in the February 1987 killing of Jeremy Stoner, who was abducted after leaving a relatives home in Vallejo, California, and whose body was found days later on Sherman Island. Cain was linked to the crime through DNA, authorities said. But now, authorities say theyre also looking at Cain as a suspect in Eric Coys killing, an investigation that has drawn community shock, sympathy, and hundreds of tips to police over the past 35 years, yet remains unsolved. Eric was found dead in a creek near Martinez Junior High School on Jan. 25, 1987. He was riding his bike a few short blocks away from his home when an unknown assailant stabbed him 11 times. There are obvious similarities between both slayings. They occurred within one month of each other. Jeremy was kidnapped from Vallejo, Eric from Martinez. Both were stabbed. In fact, the last time a suspect was arrested in Jeremys death, in 1987, police also looked at his possible involvement in Erics killing. That man, a mentally ill Benicia resident named Shawn Martin, bragged in an autobiography about molesting and raping children, but jurors failed to reach a verdict on a murder charge against him. He was later cleared by DNA, after his death, authorities said. Cain lived in Martinez in 1987, a short distance from where Erics body was found, authorities said. Despite the DNA evidence in Jeremys killing, police say he has denied involvement. The Contra Costa District Attorneys cold case unit and Martinez police are handling the investigation. Anyone with information on the killing or surrounding circumstances can leave an anonymous tip with police by calling 925-372-3457. --Nate Gartrell, Bay Area News Group 2023 MediaNews Group, Inc. Visit at mercurynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. A Portland man who opened fire on a drug dealer during a chaotic armed home invasion in 2021 was found guilty of trying to steal the dealers pills but was cleared in his death. A Multnomah County jury found Christian D. Fitz-Henry not guilty of second-degree murder in the death of Joshua Newell after the defendant testified Newell shot him in the back and he returned fire in self defense. A choir teacher who was sanctioned for crossing boundaries with two high school girls but was not charged criminally now faces a civil lawsuit that seeks $10 million from him and his employer, the Salem-Keizer School District. The former students, who arent identified in court papers, say former McNary High choir director Joshua D. Rist groomed them by discussing indecent topics, complimenting their appearance and promising the relationships would escalate when they were older. Rist now works at an elementary school in the same district. Oregons State Board of Education delayed a vote last week on whether to extend the suspension of a graduation requirement that required students to show they can read, write or do math at a high school level. The board pulled the item from its agenda after pushback from community members concerned about weakening Oregons graduation standards. Gov. Kate Brown in 2021 signed a bill freezing the requirement that students demonstrate their proficiency in reading, writing and math on an essential skills assessment to graduate from high school. That requirement remains on hold through the end of the 2023-2024 school year. Advocates of freezing or scrapping the essential skills test say it is an unnecessary hurdle for historically marginalized students and has not translated to improvements in post high school success. Those in favor of keeping the benchmark argue that Oregon leaders are watering down graduation requirements and weakening the value of a diploma. The vote for continuing suspension of the standards through the 2027-2028 school year was initially scheduled on the consent agenda at the state boards Sept. 21 meeting, which spurred outcry from Rep. Tracy Cramer, R-Gervais, who argued the state board was trying to rush a decision without public input. Consent agendas are typically used to approve a batch of items at once at public meetings instead of allowing individual discussion. The consent agenda is a tool that should only be for non-controversial business items, but this proposal would fast-track a consequential decision that impacts the next four years of Oregon high school graduates, Cramer wrote in a letter to the board. More than a dozen people submitted additional testimony opposing the suspension of the requirement, some saying it renders diplomas meaningless. I wholeheartedly disagree with the idea that we should have no graduation standards for students graduating for the better part of this decade, Cramers letter said. The essential skills learning requirements provide valuable assessments and data to ensure our students can read, write and do math before graduation. State Board Chair Guadalupe Martinez Zapata acknowledged the public outcry during the September meeting and said the board had tabled its vote on the suspension until October. Martinez Zapata told The Oregonian/OregonLive that the vote had been scheduled for the consent agenda because it had gotten little public feedback at prior board meetings on the topic. At the September board meeting, Martinez Zapata fired back at what she called an organized misinformation campaign led by some lawmakers and a cadre of common, well-known bad actors. Some of the misinformation is presented with artistic quality, mental acrobatics, such that it might be tempting to believe those alternative facts, if only they werent automatically discredited by a myopic analysis and bigotry that follows them, Martinez Zapata said. Dru Draper, a spokesperson for House Republicans, said that the vast majority of parents didnt know about the boards decision and Cramer wanted to give them a chance to weigh in. Draper took issue with Martinez Zapatas comments during the meeting. She should be in the business of serving parents, not insulting them, Draper said. In an interview, Martinez Zapata said her comments were not directed specifically at people who submitted public feedback for the board meeting, but around larger conversations to do with graduation requirements and student success, which she says often invoke racist tropes that students of color dont succeed at the same rates as their white peers because of cultural differences, not because of systemic inequities. Some of the public comments to the state board incorrectly asserted that the essential skills test is the only graduation standard for Oregon students. High school seniors still have to meet several requirements to earn a diploma, including achieving a minimum number of credits and completing personalized learning, including a career-related experience. The essential skills assessment was put on hold during the pandemic, when standardized tests werent happening and lawmakers and the governor agreed to freeze the requirement through 2023-24 school year, while Oregon state leaders did a more comprehensive review of graduation requirements. The Oregon Department of Education came out with new graduation recommendations about a year ago. One of those was to scrap the essential skills test. State reports found that the requirement didnt translate to improved student outcomes after high school and raised concerns that it created inequitable outcomes for historically underserved groups. Lawmakers have not acted on that recommendation. Leaders from the Oregon Department of Education asked the State Board of Education to extend the pause for another four years in the meantime to allow for legislative and state board action. Elisabeth Shepard, spokesperson for Gov. Tina Kotek, said in an email that the governor supports ongoing conversations about how graduation requirements align with what students and employers need. Community input and data reflect that the essential skills assessment has not resulted in the academic success shifts in high school or college that it was designed for and it has had unintended impacts on students who have been systematically marginalized in the K-12 system, Shepard wrote. The report on graduation requirements found that while the essential skills assessment is not the primary barrier that students face to graduating on time, it has yielded several inequitable outcomes in how students demonstrated their proficiency. While most students demonstrated skills through a standardized test, the state found that Black, Latino and Native American students relied on an alternate work sample to demonstrate proficiency more frequently than other students. The report called for more research to understand how students were being impacted by this disparity, but pointed out that students in need of creating work samples generally had to take an additional class their senior year, which could be demoralizing and take the place of an elective. A 2021 analysis by the states Higher Education Coordinating Commission also found in the decade since the skills tests were first implemented, Oregon high school graduates have not seen related improvements in their first year of college. Only 11 other states had exit examinations required for graduation in 2020, the state report said. Twelve more had recently ended those assessments, the report said. Sen. Michael Dembrow, D-Portland, who was on the state board of education that adopted the essential skills requirement more than a decade ago, said the goal of introducing a requirement was to have students demonstrate that they could apply in the real world the skills they were learning in school, perhaps through capstone classes or projects. Using standardized tests to gauge student competence is 180 degrees away from what we were hoping for back in 2006, Dembrow said. Dembrow said hes not opposed to the state boards continued suspension of the rules, but said the topic merits discussion and debate that cant happen through a consent agenda. This issue has been seized upon and politicized in a very partisan way, Dembrow said. I want it to be examined and debated according to the facts and the research. This story was brought to you through a partnership between The Oregonian/OregonLive and Report for America. Learn how to support this crucial work. Sami Edge covers higher education for The Oregonian. You can reach her at sedge@oregonian.com or (503) 260-3430. Ten attorneys general, including Oregons Ellen Rosenblum, have sued the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, saying the federal agency has failed to update its residential wood-burning stove emissions standards, leading to continued pollution and health risks. The complaint, filed late last week, alleges both that the federal agencys current standards arent good enough and that the agencys wood-stove testing and certification program fails to ensure that new wood-burning stoves comply with the emission limits. The lawsuit seeks to have the federal agency institute and enforce new standards for residential wood heaters to decrease emissions. The use of wood stoves for home heating was widely popular during the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries, but the U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates that 12.5 million homes in the U.S. continue to use wood stoves as well as other wood-burning devices such as fireplaces for home heating, because theyre affordable, create constant warmth and look cozy. A February report from the EPAs Office of Inspector General described the federal residential wood-stove standards as ineffective and said the program puts human health and the environment at risk for exposure to dangerous fine-particulate-matter pollution by allowing sales of wood heaters that may not meet emission standards. That report said the federal agency had distributed about $82 million in grants for residential wood-stove exchanges between 2015 and 2021. But the lack of both updated emissions standards and proper testing means that these grants and the state and local programs that encourage people to exchange old, dirty stoves for newer wood heaters are essentially useless because the newer models do not meaningfully reduce emissions or improve air quality, according to the complaint. Oregon law requires the removal and destruction of uncertified wood stoves and fireplace inserts when a home is sold. If a stove or insert is certified by the EPA to meet wood-smoke emission standards, it can remain in the home but that certification may mean little, given the allegations in the lawsuit. Several counties in Oregon, including Multnomah and Washington, have wood-stove exchange programs. In Multnomah County, residents receive financial incentives to exchange wood-burning devices for electric heat pumps, which arent harmful to human health. Wood smoke contains fine particulate matter, carbon monoxide and other toxic chemicals. Multiple studies have confirmed that exposure to fine particulate matter from smoke can increase the risk of cancer, dementia and childhood lung problems. While the EPA has acknowledged its failings in a response to the Office of Inspector General report, the agency said it wont start updating its testing methods until next year and does not plan to finalize new stove performance standards until 2027. Gosia Wozniacka; gwozniacka@oregonian.com; @gosiawozniacka Our journalism needs your support. Please become a subscriber today at OregonLive.com/subscribe/ WASHINGTON (AP) A bill to preserve the site of the Wounded Knee massacre one of the deadliest massacres in U.S. history cleared the U.S. House of Representatives earlier this month. The Wounded Knee Massacre Memorial and Sacred Site Act, introduced by Republican U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota in May, passed the House by voice vote on Sept. 20. The Senate is considering companion legislation. More than 200 Native Americans including children and elderly people were killed at Wounded Knee in 1890. The bloodshed marked a seminal moment in the frontier battles the U.S. Army waged against tribes. The Oglala Sioux and Cheyenne River Sioux Tribes joined together last year to purchase about 40 acres around the Wounded Knee National Historic Landmark in South Dakota to ensure the area was preserved as a sacred site. Leaders of both tribes testified in support of the House bill, which would put federal protections on the land on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. Oglala Sioux Tribe President Frank Star Comes Out did not immediately return a phone message seeking comment on the bills passage. In a previous statement, he said: We must remember the sacrifices our ancestors have suffered for us. What happened at Wounded Knee is a reminder that we as a Oyate (people) have succumbed incredible odds to survive, so we must honor our ancestors by preserving the land for future generations to come. A phone call to the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe rang unanswered last week. In a previous statement, Cheyenne River Sioux Chairman Ryman LeBeau and Wounded Knee survivor descendants Manny and Renee Iron Hawk said, We stand in strong solidarity in memorializing this sacred site, that will be honored as such forever more. In a speech on the House floor, Johnson described his trip to the Wounded Knee site in June, when he visited with descendants, including an elder whose grandmother survived the massacre. These are real people. These are real places. These are not ancient tales of a distant land, Johnson said. The site has figured prominently in Indigenous peoples struggles with the U.S. government. A private citizen, James Czywczynski, purchased the property in 1968. His family operated a trading post and museum there until 1973, when American Indian Movement protesters occupied the site, destroying both the post and Czywczynskis home. The 71-day standoff that left two tribal members dead and a federal agent seriously wounded led to heightened awareness about Native American struggles and propelled a wider protest movement. Oregon lawmakers approved $240 million in grants and loans last spring to boost the states semiconductor industry, one of the regions economic pillars. Sixteen companies applied for the money, and Gov. Tina Koteks office chose 15 to divide the pot. Oregon anticipates the companies receiving the money will collectively spend about $40 billion on new projects in the state. Economic development officials anticipate their investment will create more than 6,000 new Oregon jobs, and perhaps 1,000 construction jobs over the next five years. Oregon economic officials said Thursday they expect $40 billion in new semiconductor investment in the coming years, spending they anticipate will rejuvenate the states computer chip industry and create 6,300 new jobs. At a legislative hearing in Salem, they hailed the planned investments as the payoff of more than $500 million in chip industry incentives state lawmakers approved last spring and announced details of how the state will parcel out the money. Photo: (Photo : Vitolda Klein on Unsplash) A profound change in the behavior of 4-year-old Marie brought forth a reality that Michelle Marciniak and her family were not prepared for. Marie had lost her ability to hear due to a virus, leaving her in a world of silence for six painstaking months. Discovering that their daughter had been living in a silent world was heartbreaking for the family, but the subsequent revelation that essential hearing aids were not covered by insurance in California exacerbated their distress. Hearing loss, affecting thousands of children annually, is far from a rare condition. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identify it as one of the most prevalent conditions present at birth. In a nation where 2 or 3 of every 1,000 children born exhibit detectable levels of hearing loss, the lack of insurance coverage for hearing aids in California rings alarm bells. Grassroots Movement for Change Hailing from Orange County, the Marciniak family encountered the stark reality that insurance companies deemed hearing aids for children as 'cosmetic' or elective. These essential devices carry a hefty price tag, around $6,000, a cost that recurs every few years throughout childhood as children outgrow their devices. While the Marciniaks could bear this financial burden, they crossed paths with numerous families for whom these essential costs were insurmountable, leading to potential bankruptcy. Driven by a desire to enact change, Michelle Marciniak founded a grassroots group named Let California Kids Hear. The group embarked on a mission to mandate that insurance companies in California cover hearing aids for children up to 21 years old. Their efforts were not unprecedented, with hearing aid mandates already in place in 26 states and others like New York, Hawaii, Nevada, and Arizona deliberating similar legislation. The group's advocacy led to the introduction of a bill on the California Legislature floor in 2019. However, it was met with resistance from insurance companies, who expressed concerns about potential premium increases. A glimmer of hope appeared in 2021 when Governor Gavin Newsom's administration introduced a program to provide funding for hearing aids to families meeting specific income eligibility and having limited insurance coverage. Read Also: Texas Parents Claim Apple AirPods Caused Sons' Permanent Hearing Loss in $75,000 Lawsuit The High Cost of Inaction However, with the state of California spending an estimated $400 million annually on educating 14,000 hearing-impaired children, the issue's depth becomes glaringly apparent. Advocates and affiliated medical professionals argue that providing early access to hearing aids could significantly mitigate some of these educational costs, setting the children on a path to a more inclusive and equitable future. Dr. Daniela Carvalho, a renowned pediatric otolaryngologist, emphasized that the state program was not a comprehensive solution. With thousands of children still lacking access to necessary hearing aids, the risks of significant delays in speech, academic achievements, and social interaction loom large. "Pediatric hearing loss is a developmental emergency," she fervently testified before the California State Assembly. In a landmark development, the Legislature recently passed Senate Bill 635, which mandates insurance companies to include coverage for hearing aids for all enrollees under 21 if deemed medically necessary. As it stands, the bill is on Governor Newsom's desk, awaiting his signature, which could mark a pivotal moment in the fight for hearing-impaired children's rights. Michelle Marciniak remains hopeful and anticipates no reluctance from the governor to extend support to thousands of children in the state who are in dire need of hearing aids. As for Marie, now a vibrant 13-year-old, her journey has taken a positive turn since acquiring her hearing aids. Thriving and learning alongside her peers, Marie's story serves as a testament to the transformative power of access to essential healthcare resources. Reflecting on her daughter's progress, Marciniak concludes, "She is doing great. But it could have been a very different story without those hearing aids." Related Article: Baby Communication Development: Babies Love To Hear Their Own Babbles , Makes Them Talk More Photo: (Photo : Kenny Eliason on Unsplash) In a dramatic turn of events surrounding the murder of 26-year-old Pava LaPere, CEO and founder of EcoMap Technologies in Baltimore, the mother of the prime suspect has made a public appeal for her son's surrender. Scarlett Billingsley, mother to 32-year-old Jason Billingsley, who is currently wanted on first-degree murder and several other charges, spoke to NBC News, urging her son to turn himself in to the authorities. Unraveling the Crime Scene Pava LaPere's body, bearing signs of "blunt-force trauma", was discovered in an apartment on Monday morning. The ongoing investigation has yet to determine the exact cause of death, and the Baltimore Police Department has not released any information regarding a potential motive or the nature of the relationship between Jason and LaPere. Scarlett Billingsley is also in the dark about any connection her son might have had with the young tech CEO. The last interaction Scarlett had with her son was on Monday, when he briefly visited her home. During this visit, Jason showed his mother a gun, which she believes he was trying to sell. Fearing for her son's life, Scarlett said, "I told him to turn himself in because they're going to kill him. I don't want police to shoot him because they think he has a gun." Scarlett, clearly distressed, conveyed her deep sorrow for the LaPere family's loss and emphasized her need for conclusive evidence to believe in her son's guilt. Jason Billingsley's criminal record paints a picture of a man with a history of violent behavior. Classified as a "tier 3" offender in the Maryland sex offender registry, he was released in October after serving a sentence for a first-degree sex offense. Authorities, including Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley, have expressed grave concerns about his release, with Worley explicitly stating, "This individual will kill, and he will rape. He will do anything he can to cause harm." Court records indicate multiple instances of violent acts and robberies committed by Jason, leading to a series of charges, convictions, and sentences throughout the years. Despite this alarming history, Scarlett Billingsley is deeply worried about her son's safety, especially since she has already lost her oldest son to gun violence in 2013. "He's the only one I have left. He's my baby boy," she emotionally stated. Read Also: Black Teen Died After Facility Staff Members Forcibly Restrained Him Impact on the Tech Community As the Baltimore Police Department intensifies its manhunt for Jason Billingsley, investigators are meticulously gathering evidence to unravel the mystery surrounding Pava LaPere's untimely death. The tragedy has plunged two families into distress, both seeking answers, justice, and closure for their loved ones. The city of Baltimore, already grappling with issues of public safety and criminal justice, is mourning the loss of a promising young entrepreneur. Pava LaPere, through her innovative work at EcoMap Technologies, was making significant contributions to the tech industry. Her untimely and tragic death highlights the urgent need to address community welfare and safety in Baltimore and other cities facing similar challenges. The reverberations of this tragedy will be felt far and wide, not only by the grieving family and friends of Pava LaPere but also by the broader tech and entrepreneurial community in the region. The ongoing investigation continues to uncover the intricate details of this case, leaving the community in anticipation of justice being served and hoping for a resolution that brings peace to all parties involved. Related Article: Murder Charge in Black Teen's Killing: Store Owner Fights Warrant for Business Records Photo: (Photo : GABRIEL BOUYS / Getty Images) Concerns have emerged surrounding a potential chicken bone broth contamination, putting Costco in the spotlight. Here's the vital information for consumers. When it comes to shopping at Costco, consumers often trust the retail giant for quality and value. However, recent news regarding a chicken bone broth recall has caused some concern. The Heart of the Matter: Costco's Bone Broth Contamination Costco shoppers, particularly those who have recently bought bone broth, need to be informed about this important recall. The product in question is the Culinary Treasures Organic Chicken Bone Broth, distributed by TreeHouse Foods. Reports suggest that there's a potential non-pathogenic microbial contamination, making it crucial for customers to inspect their recent purchases. If you've made a purchase of this bone broth from Costco between Sept. 8, 2022, and Sept. 22, 2023, there are certain specifics you need to check. Products with a "best before" date of Feb. 23, 2024, and the lot code 98E08242 should be on your radar. For easier identification, these products carry Costco item #1095592 and UPC codes 67200055858 on the cartons or 67200055865 on the Club Pack. TreeHouse Foods has been forthcoming about the potential risks. The chicken bone broth containers might appear bloated, a telltale sign of a shortened shelf life and imminent spoilage. Thankfully, as of this writing, there have been no reported illnesses linked to this chicken bone broth recall. How to Address the Chicken Bone Broth Recall Responding to the potential bone broth contamination, TreeHouse Foods has a clear directive: do not consume the product. Instead, customers are encouraged to return the product to their nearest Costco for a complete refund. Alternatively, it can be safely discarded. For further queries and concerns, TreeHouse Foods is facilitating communication. Customers can connect with them directly through a phone call at (800) 236-1119 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CT or by emailing at THSConsumerAffairs@treehousefoods.com. As of now, there's no additional comment from TreeHouse Foods on the matter, despite media attempts to gain further insights. Read Also: South Carolina Tragedy: "Beef" Leads to Death of 3 Teens in Senseless Shooting Another Recall on the Horizon: Pork Chicharrones Alert In addition to the chicken bone broth recall, consumers need to be wary of another recall making the rounds. This one concerns Del Valle Import and Export LLC's product. Specifically, ready-to-eat pork chicharrones imported from Honduras - a country that does not have the requisite clearance to export pork products to the U.S. The FSIS has been quite vocal about the risks, advising consumers not to consume the products and, ideally, to return them to the purchase location or safely dispose of them. This pork chicharrones recall concerns the product "DEL RANCHO CHICHARRONES AUTENTICOS 100% PRODUCTO DE CERDO." It's worth noting that these have been widely distributed in areas including Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. Interestingly, the pork chicharrones recall came to light during a routine FSIS surveillance activity, revealing the unauthorized pork products from Honduras in a retail store. As with the chicken bone broth recall, no illnesses or adverse reactions have been reported linked to this product. In wrapping up, consumers are urged to remain vigilant and regularly check their purchases against official recalls. Whether it's the chicken bone broth contamination or the pork chicharrones recall, staying informed is the best defense. Stay updated on the latest news regarding product safety and recalls to ensure the well-being of you and your family. Related Article: Overwhelmed by Phone Prompts: New Study Reveals Kids Swamped with Notifications, Impacting Focus, Sleep Photo: (Photo : Sean gallup/Getty Images) An escalating Chicago High School E.coli outbreak has put Huntley High School in the spotlight. With nine confirmed cases, this suburban Chicago high school is drawing attention, causing health officials to race against time to determine its origin. As the count last week stood at five, the Chicago High School E.coli outbreak's growth is alarming. Huntley High School, a central institution in this, has been working with health experts to unearth common exposures among the affected. Understanding the E.coli Outbreak in Chicago The intricate nature of the investigation is owing to the myriad potential exposure points both inside and outside the school's premises. A representative from the health department stated that it is a very complicated investigation with multiple potential exposures. The representative also added that a large amount of data is being collected and analyzed, with no definitive conclusion at this time. Children displaying E.coli symptoms are advised to stay at home and can only return after being symptom-free for at least 48 hours. E.coli symptoms typically include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal cramps, fever, and body aches. It's this list of E.coli symptoms that the Huntley High School community should be on the lookout for, given the contagious nature of the bacteria. Dr. Irfan Hafiz, affiliated with Northwestern McHenry hospitals, mentioned that Chicago High School E.coli outbreaks usually stem from a common food or water source, hinting at potential contamination sources ranging from meats to insufficiently chlorinated pool water. Symptoms and Precautions Amid the Chicago High School E.coli Outbreak The Chicago High School E.coli outbreak brings to light the virulent nature of the bacterium. With an incubation period ranging from 2 to 10 days, those infected can start manifesting E.coli symptoms without prior warning. Dr. Hafiz stressed the need for utmost caution, stating that individuals showing E.coli symptoms should refrain from handling or serving food. Moreover, stringent hand washing and preventive measures are pivotal, especially for those attending to the infected. Health officials are meticulously tracking the situation in Huntley High School. And, while there's a rise in the number of students suspected to be infected post this Chicago High School E.coli outbreak, the McHenry County Department of Health hasn't disclosed if any students required hospitalization. As Huntley High School continues its operations, its officials are in synergy with public health to curtail the outbreak's repercussions. Read Also: Amazon's Prime Day 2023 Forecast: What to Expect From the Mega Sale Risks and Recommendations in the Aftermath of Huntley High School's Crisis Of those diagnosed, 5 to 10 percent can escalate to a perilous condition known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Marked by fever, abdominal pain, fatigue, and unexplained bruises or bleeding, this condition poses a severe threat, especially to certain vulnerable groups. It's a dire reminder for the Huntley High School community and Chicago at large about the potential severity of an E.coli outbreak. Immediate medical intervention is vital for those showcasing signs of HUS, as it can lead to persistent complications like chronic kidney diseases and neurological issues. For stakeholders of Huntley High School grappling with E.coli symptoms, it's of the essence to promptly consult medical professionals and inform them about potential exposure to facilitate apt treatment. With this Chicago High School E.coli outbreak, parents, students, and staff of Huntley High School are advised to be vigilant, aware, and proactive in their approach, ensuring that the community's health and well-being remain uncompromised. Related Article: Costco Mattress Recall: Mold Risk Sparks Massive Callback of Popular FXI Brands photo from Twitter] *** Juan Roberto de Oliveira is the author of the book, Nenhum Caminho Leva a Roma: O pecurso ate o protestantismo [No Road Leads to Rome: The Path to Protestantism]. It has no date or publisher listed. But it was recently released. Hes a law graduate and is Ill be rebutting your rebuttals. I wish him all the best in that endeavor. If anyone discovers that he has ever answered any of my critiques, please let me know. * His words will be in blue . Translations from the Portugese of his book will be made with Google Translate (with an occasional additional modification). I will use RSV for Bible translations. Brazilian Protestantis the author of the book, Nenhum Caminho Leva a Roma: O pecurso ate o protestantismo [No Road Leads to Rome: The Path to Protestantism]. It has no date or publisher listed. But it was recently released. Hes aand is active on Twitter (now X) and, especially, Instagram . When I informed Juan of my replies, he quickly wrote on Twitter:I wish him all the best in that endeavor. If anyone discovers that he has ever answered any of my critiques, please let me know.His words will be in. Translations from the Portugese of his book will be made with Google Translate (with an occasional additional modification). I will use RSV for Bible translations. * Just as I finished my tenth installment (10-5-23), Fraternidade Newman Brasil [Newman Brazil Fraternity] published a devastatingly comprehensive (and shocking) expose entitled Apologetica da Desonestidade: Evidencias de Plagio e outras Trapacas no Livro do Protestante Juan Roberto Oliveira [Apologetics of Dishonesty: Evidence of Plagiarism and other Cheating in the Book of Protestant Juan Roberto Oliveira]. * In light of this new information, this will be my last critique. Its a shame, because I was enjoying myself so much, and I felt that I came up with some fresh arguments, but this book deserves no further response. It was already a very weak, poor volume (desperately in need of an editor), even if these factors werent in play. What I have written thus far has, in my opinion, value in and of itself, as a ten-part Catholic apologetics course. So it wasnt a waste of time at all. But no more. Im only interested in responding to serious, adequately researched, honest apologetics. * ***** Jesus never used tradition, but always responded according to the scriptures. (p. 7) * When Jesus was tempted by the Devil in the desert, Satan used the scriptures to try to deceive Jesus. But Jesus answered back by also using the scriptures. Jesus referenced scripture in reply to every question from Satan, and in so doing, Jesus defeated him. (p. 8) * Yes, in that instance (see Dt 8:3) and usually in His responses, He cited Scripture, but not always. Juan did something that is one of the biggest mistakes of any debater: he asserted a universal negative ( Jesus never used always . . .). All one has to do is offer one instance where Jesus didnt do this, to refute the silly assertion. And thats easy to do. My friend David Palm ably explained what is perhaps the clearest example of Jesus utilizing extrabiblical tradition, in his classic article, Oral Tradition in the New Testament (This Rock, May 1995; now reprinted at EWTN): tradition, but. . .). Just before launching into a blistering denunciation of the scribes and Pharisees, Jesus delivers this command to the crowds: The scribes and Pharisees sit on Moses seat; so practice and observe whatever they tell you, but not what they do; for they preach, but do not practice (Matt. 23:2-3). Although Jesus strongly indicts his opponents of hypocrisy for not following their own teaching, he nevertheless insists that the scribes and Pharisees hold a position of legitimate authority, which he characterizes as sitting on Moses seat. One searches in vain for any reference to this seat of Moses in the Old Testament. But it was commonly understood in ancient Israel that there was an authoritative teaching office, passed on by Moses to successors. As the first verse of the Mishna tractate Abote indicates, the Jews understood that Gods revelation, received by Moses, had been handed down from him in uninterrupted succession, through Joshua, the elders, the prophets, and the great Sanhedrin (Acts 15:21). The scribes and Pharisees participated in this authoritative line and as such their teaching deserved to be respected. Jesus here draws on oral Tradition to uphold the legitimacy of this teaching office in Israel. The Catholic Church, in upholding the legitimacy of both Scripture and Tradition, follows the example of Jesus himself. As a second counter-example, Jesus famous teaching on lust in the Sermon on the Mount was not derived from the Old Testament text, but rather, from the oral Torah, that the Jews believed that Moses received on Mt. Sinai. Jesus said, every one who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart (Mt 5:28). * Nothing remotely like this appears in the 39 Protestant-approved Old Testament books. Lust appears nine times, but not with any similarity to this passage. A proximity search of adultery and heart yields nothing. It looks like Jesus was drawing from a rabbinical source that claims to preserve the oral Torah; specifically: You must not suppose that only he who has committed the crime with his body is called an adulterer. If he commits adultery with his eyes he is also called an adulterer (Leviticus Rabbah 23:12; cf. Kallah, ch.1). Some Protestants read the accounts of Jesus conflicts with the Pharisees and get the idea that He was utterly opposed to all tradition whatsoever. This is false. A close reading of passages such as Matthew 15:3-9 and Mark 7: 8-13 will reveal that He only condemned corrupt traditions of men, not tradition per se. He uses qualifying phrases like your tradition, commandments of men, tradition of men. As a third example of what Juan claims never happened, Jesus said, For truly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the law until all is accomplished (Mt 5:18). This likely was reflective of Leviticus Rabbah 19:2: Should all the nations of the world unite to uproot one word of the Torah, they would be unable to do it. As a fourth counter-example, consider Jesus saying, The sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath (Mk 2:27). This thought appears in the Talmud: Rabbi Jonathan ben Joseph said: For it is holy unto you; I.e., it [the Sabbath] is committed to your hands, not you to its hands (Yoma 85b; cf. Mekilta 103b), and the Pharisaical school of Hillel was famous for using it. As a fifth example of what Juan claims never happened, Jesus said, Have you not read what David did, when he was hungry, and those who were with him: how he entered the house of God and ate the bread of the Presence, which it was not lawful for him to eat nor for those who were with him, but only for the priests? (Mt 12:3-4). The oral Torah agrees that basic needs of life supersede Sabbath restrictions, and even use the same example of David eating the showbread, that Jesus used (see Ylommdenu, Yalkut II, par. 130; Tosefta Shabbat 15b). * As a sixth counter-example, Jesus observed Hanukkah (It was the feast of the Dedication at Jerusalem; it was winter, and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the portico of Solomon: Jn 10:22-23). This is not found in the Torah or any of the 39 Old Testament books, according to Protestantism. But its found in 2 Maccabees 10:6-8, in the Deuterocanon accepted by Catholics, but not accepted by Protestants (and called by them the Apocrypha). * In fact, one can find similar sayings in rabbinical writings to virtually all of Jesus statements. Here are several more examples: * 7) Matthew 25:45: Then he will answer them, Truly, I say to you, as you did it not to one of the least of these, you did it not to me.' Compare: One who betrays his fellow, it is as if he has betrayed God (Tosefta Shvuot, ch. 3). * 8) Matthew 5:21-22: You have heard that it was said to the men of old, You shall not kill; and whoever kills shall be liable to judgment. But I say to you that every one who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother shall be liable to the council, and whoever says, You fool! shall be liable to the hell of fire. Compare: He who publicly shames his neighbour is as though he shed blood (Talmud: Bava Mezia 58b). * 9) Matthew 5:45: he . . . sends rain on the just and on the unjust. Compare: rain is both for the righteous and for the wicked (Talmud: Taanit 7a). * 10) Matthew 6:31, 34 Therefore do not be anxious, saying, `What shall we eat? or `What shall we drink? . . . do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Let the days own trouble be sufficient for the day. Compare: Rabbi Eliezer the Great declares: Whoever has a piece of bread in his basket and Says. What shall I eat tomorrow? belongs only to them who are little in faith (Talmud: Sotah 48b). * 11) Matthew 5:37 Let what you say be simply Yes or No . . . (cf. Jas 5:12). Compare: A righteous yes is a Yes; a righteous no is No (Talmud: Bava Batra 49b). * 12) Matthew 11:25 Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to babes. Compare: Rabbi Johanan said: Since the Temple was destroyed, prophecy has been taken from prophets and given to fools and children (Talmud: Bava Batra 12b). * 13) Matthew 5:30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away; it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell. Compare: Rabbi Tarfon said, If his hand touched the membrum let his hand be cut off upon his belly. . . . It is preferable that his belly shall be split rather than that he should go down into the pit of destruction (Talmud: Niddah 13b). * About 300 girls selected from 23 Senior High Schools in the Ashanti, Bono and Western North regions benefited from opportunities to learn about practical application of STEM that will contribute to achieving the sustainable development goals, at a bootcamp in Kumasi. Learning activities at the 5-day camp included career development and growth, critical thinking in design management, effective communication and pitching, introduction to scientific literature review, artificial intelligence, as well as mentorship. These together with the various practical STEM competitions, provided hands on experience to students as well as a comprehensive developmental program to prepare the girls for a competitive labor market in the STEM fields. Speaking on why Stanbic is keen on inculcating the love of STEM into young girls and women, Head Brand and Marketing at Stanbic Bank, Mawuko Afadzinu said: One of the things were passionate about as a bank is to trigger students participation in the STEM fields, especially girls, by giving them an opportunity to learn about various career paths and develop interest in the field, sparking their creativity and research skills thus leading to job creation and poverty alleviation in Ghana. The innovations by these students can go a long way in making our planet sustainable and the social space thriving. This is one of the partnerships that give us the opportunity to support the dreams of our younger ones and give back to the community. The girls were divided into teams and tasked to come up with exciting ways to use knowledge in STEM to solve everyday challenges. At the end of the programme, Group H emerged champions with their rapid analysis of aflatoxins in food project. The other finalists developed a technique for plant dye extraction, a locally made breast cancer screening phantom, plant leaf disease detection, Pest/Birds Detection (Scarecrow Sounds), breast cancer detection and brain tumour detection using artificial intelligence (AI). Leader of group W, Princess Debby Bempomah Martey from St Monicas Girls Senior High School shared her excitement at their presentation and thanked Stanbic Bank for the opportunity. She said, I have learnt from this camp that artificial intelligence (AI) holds significant value due to its increasing impact on multiple aspects of society. The field's rapid growth offers abundant career opportunities across industries, fostering innovation and problem-solving skills. Our brain tumour detection project confirmed that AI's role in automation and data analysis truly enhances efficiency and decision-making. I am really grateful to Stanbic for making this event possible, it has given us knowledge and the confidence we need to make it in any STEM field we choose, she said. President, KNUST WiSTEM, Prof Mbok Oduro urged parents to give their daughters same support they give the boy child when it comes to choosing STEM courses or careers. She also thanked the team from Stanbic for making it possible for girls from C schools to interact and learn with girls from A and B schools. We want to say a big thank you to Stanbic Bank for partnering this initiative. Logistics needed to host over 300 girls for 5 days is no joke; Stanbic came on board to make sure the camp was not only successful but fun and very engaging. We are grateful for the cash, branded souvenirs and their active participation throughout the period. Stanbic Bank Ghana has partnered many academic institutions and FinTechs to deliver a number of STEM related projects which have so far given beneficiaries access to about 300 mentors and advisors across 48 disciplines and technical areas, access to structured training programs and curriculum, internship opportunities with Stanbic Bank, and other partners, and due diligence simulations for student entrepreneurs, most of which are women. 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 Mr. Chris Atadika, a prominent member of the communication team of the organisers of the #OccupyJulorBiHouse demonstration has expressed his views on the role youth activism can play in shaping Ghana's future. The #OccupyJulorBiHouse protest, which took place in Accra, saw many concerned citizens expressing their discontent with Ghanas poor economic situation. During an interview on Okay FM's Ekwansodwoodwoo program, Mr Atadika clarified that the recent protest was not aimed at advocating for a coup, but rather to draw the attention of government authorities to the importance of doing what is right. He said, There is a prevailing misconception that Ghanas youth are advocating for a coup. Our message is clear: we do not seek coup; we demand proper governance. Meanwhile, Atadika has expressed his dismay at how the Ghanaian police handled the protesters. Source: Benjamin Koomson/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 Today, it turned out in court that the Inchaban Treatmem Plant's cable thief, Baba Salihu, believed to be 17 years and therefore a minor whose identity needed to be protected, is not a minor after all. He was asked to produce his Ghana card in court to prove his age. Lo and behold, he was 18 years and was subsequently sentenced to 24 months in prison by the Shama Majistrate Court presided over by Ms. Patience Ablorh. He was not given the option to pay a fine for a good reason. It came to light that he was sentenced to six months in prison with the option of a fine two weeks ago. He was said to have broken into a container shop belonging to some "Abokyi people", Negeriens, and stolen footwears meant for sale. He was, at the time, released after paying his fine with two others with him, but the last person could not pay the fine and had to be sent to prison to start his 6 months jail term. We in Ghana Water Limited are quite satisfied with the swift and successful prosecution of this case as it will send a strong signal to his possible accomplices that GWCL is not a company to be taken for granted. The Regional Chief and Communications Manager took a keen interest in the matter by visiting the plant and the police station after hearing about the the arrest of the thief. They also followed the case closely till judgment was delivered today. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Former Minister of Trade and Industry, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, has revealed that he and a few state officials defended the decision by the government to seek a bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in 2021, while Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta was nowhere to be found. Kyerematen made this revelation during an interview on UTV on Tuesday, September 26 a day after he broke away from the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP). He questioned the confidence of Ofori-Atta in defending the decision, saying, Did you hear from the Finance Minister, having the confidence to defend it? This contrasts with comments made by Kyerematen in July when he was campaigning to be the NPPs flagbearer in the Greater Accra Region, stating that if Ghanaians had listened to him, the country wouldnt have gone to the IMF. In his latest interview, Kyerematen also implored supporters of other political parties to vote for him in the 2024 presidential elections while retaining their allegiance to their partys Members of Parliament. This development is sure to create some unease within the New Patriotic Party as Ofori-Attas competence as Finance Minister comes under scrutiny. It remains to be seen how the party hierarchy will manage this delicate situation in the coming days. Source: 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 Bernard Allotey Jacobs says Alan Kyerematen's choice of butterfly as his political symbol makes certain of his failure to become President of Ghana. Alan Kyerematen, popularly called 'Alan Cash', on Monday, September 25, announced his decision to contest the 2024 elections as an independent candidate and revealed he has resigned from the NPP. He intimated that he is going to lead a new movement he termed "Movement for Change". "The brand logo for the MOVEMENT is the Monarch Butterfly, which politically symbolizes change and transformation, hope, and positivity. It also communicates strength, endurance, spirituality, and trust, which are key traits that I cherish as a Political Leader. In Akan, it is known as Afrafranto," he said in a press conference at Movenpick Hotel. He added; "The brand motto of the MOVEMENT is Ghana Will Rise Again, which symbolizes hope for the future of Ghana." To him, "the new Movement will be led and powered by the youth of Ghana". But to Allotey Jacobs, Alan choosing a butterfly to represent his movement is a bad call. "Don't get it twisted; there is spiritualism in politics", using a butterfly is "most unfortunate", he told Nana Yaw Kesseh on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" show. He explained that a butterfly naturally has a short lifespan, hence alluded to a time ago that a politician used a butterfly as his symbol, only for him to see the end of his political career. "A butterfly lives for seven days or two weeks and dies. I love butterflies but a butterfly is always very deceptive," he stated and called on those close to Alan to offer him wise counsel. "It is most unfortunate . . . Somebody needs to advise him," he expressed his disappointment in Alan breaking away from the NPP. 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 Greater Accra Regional Youth Organiser of the opposition National Democratic Congress, NDC, Amorse Blessing Amos has threatened to kill any member of the Fixing The Country Movement if they dare step their feet at the office of former President John Mahama to embark on any protest against the NDC flagbearer. The NDC Youth Organiser also warned the Convenor for the Fixing the Country Movement, Ernest Kofi Owusu Bempah who has petitioned the Office of the Special Prosecutor to provide an update on the Airbus scandal case against the former President to pay for his grave and coffin before he attempts a demonstration at Mr. Mahamas office. In a statement issued by Amorse Amos reacting to the Fixing The Country Movement public statement announcing an upcoming protest against the former President recently, the NDC Youth Organiser noted that This statement goes as a warning or whatever they may want to call it, to Owusu Bempah and whoever he may be planning this with, that they should not dare come closer to His Excellency John Dramani Mahamas office. If he and his lapdogs are men, they should make any silly attempt around that office. According to him, in the event Owusu Bempah and his group remain nonchalant and attempt anything close to what they have announced, they should pay for their coffins and graves before they come. We would have no issue if Owusu Bempah and his idling hirelings in the NPP want to express their revulsion against their own failed Akufo Addo/Bawumia government for its inability to stamp out corruption. We are, however, aversed to attempts by the so-called group to draw His Excellency John Dramani Mahama into the misgovernance of the present administration. The group, if indeed it exists, and its leader, may have a right to demonstrate, but that right must not be exercised in a reckless, illogical and smoke-induced manner he noted. Amos lamented There are hundreds of scandals under this government that Owusu Bempah must be interested in. If his government is unable to investigate alleged corruption, he should gird his loins and demonstrate against his government. He further said It would only take someone whose brain may probably be on holiday to dream of doing what Owusu Bempah has announced; alI because a certain Akufo Addo/Bawumia government has not taken action on a supposed Airbus scandal. Mr Mahama is not in charge of any investigative institution, if Owusu Bempah does not know this, then he must stop smoking those contaminated weeds and start reasoning like a normal human being conceived and birthed by a woman. We shall be waiting for him at John Mahamas office after the 14-day ultimatum, adding that Mr John Dramani Mahama cannot be blamed for the failures of the Akufo Addo/Bawumia governments inability to investigate any supposed scandal he threatened. The Fixing the Country Movement has expressed its dismay over the lack of progress in the Airbus Corruption investigations involving former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama. The movement has announced its intention to occupy Mr. Mahamas office in 14 days if action is not taken on the matter. The movement highlights that it has been over three years since Airbus SE, a global aircraft provider based in France, agreed to pay hefty fines totalling more than $3.9 billion to resolve foreign bribery charges. The charges were brought forth by authorities in the United States, France, and the United Kingdom, stemming from the companys scheme to bribe government officials and non-governmental airline executives worldwide the group said in a statement. As part of the global resolution, Airbus also entered into a deferred prosecution agreement with the United Kingdoms Serious Fraud Office (SFO) over bribes paid in several countries, including Ghana. The investigation revealed that Airbus engaged in a scheme from 2008 to 2015, offering and paying bribes to decision-makers and influencers to gain improper business advantages. Of particular concern to the movement is the revelation that Airbus employed intermediaries, including renowned British actor Philip Middlemiss and John Mahamas brother Samuel Adam Mahama, to facilitate the sale of military transport aircraft to Ghana. The British and American authorities court records indicate that Airbus sought to obtain an undue favour from a member of the Ghanaian government, identified as Government Official 1. The movement asserts that the Ghanaian justice system should conduct a thorough inquiry into the Airbuso corruption, as former President Mahama may have significant questions to answer. Despite a year passing since the Special Prosecutor announced the new phase of investigations, there has been little progress on the matter. Recently, Fixing the Country Movement petitioned the Office of the Special Prosecutor to provide an update on the case, but they have yet to receive a response. In response to the lack of action, the movement is issuing a 14-day ultimatum for progress to be made. If no action is taken, the movement plans to lead a citizen coalition in front of Mahamas office to peacefully protest and demand answers. The movement emphasizes that a nonchalant attitude towards the Airbus corruption affair is unacceptable, and it urges the relevant parties to take immediate action. The Ghanaian public deserves transparency and accountability in addressing this corruption scandal involving a former President the group noted in a statement. Source: Daniel Bampoe/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 Dr. Benjamin Otchere-Ankrah says Alan Kyerematen's decision to contest the 2024 elections will amount to nothing. To him, to think that Alan will win the elections as an independent candidate is impossible. "Like it or not, in Ghana, there are only three political parties; NPP, NDC and the rest," he commented on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" morning show while discussing Alan Kyerematen's public declaration at a press conference on Monday, September 25 at the Movenpick Hotel in Accra. Alan Kyerematen ended his relationship with the New Patriotic Party(NPP), stating; "I am honourably resigning with immediate effect from the NPP to contest for the high office of the President of the Republic of Ghana as an independent presidential candidate." He revealed his new movement dubbed Movement for Change with the motto Ghana Will Rise Again. "The brand logo for the MOVEMENT is the Monarch Butterfly, which politically symbolizes change and transformation, hope, and positivity. It also communicates strength, endurance, spirituality, and trust, which are key traits that I cherish as a Political Leader. In Akan, it is known as Afrafranto," he intimated. But to Dr. Benjamin Otchere-Ankrah, Alan's move is aimed at spoiling the New Patriotic Party's chance of winning next year's election, however, he noted the party can exploit Alan's decision to their advantage. "We wish him well though he will not win. That one, I don't need any Prophet to tell me; he won't win but he knows why he wants to independently contest," he stated. He also slammed Alan Kyerematen for speaking against the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration. "If you are able to attack this government for which you were a part, then you are not being truthful. You are being disingenuous," Dr. Otchere-Ankrah replied. 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 Join Stars Online Casino in Pennsylvania today to unlock an exclusive offer of a 100% deposit match of up to $600 in casino credits. If youre a PennLive reader 21+ years old and have yet to experience Stars Casino, youre in for a real treat with this epic welcome bonus. With the strong backing of the renowned PokerStars online poker cardroom, the casino side of the platform boasts top-notch software that operates flawlessly. Whether navigating menus or indulging in thrilling games, you wont encounter any lags, hitches, or freezes. The exceptional software is just one of the numerous factors that position Stars Casino as one of Pennsylvanias premier online casinos. 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(AP) A shooting at a Florida auto shop that killed two men was triggered by a former customers dissatisfaction with work done on his car two years ago, police said Thursday. The Largo Police Department said Eugene Frank Becker, 78, arrived at Stouts Automotive in a rental car Wednesday and sought out business owner Jodie Stout, 52. Investigators say Becker pulled out a handgun and shot Stout, who returned fire with his own gun, striking Becker multiple times. Both men died at a hospital. The shooting brought dozens of police officers to the scene. A forensic science investigator with the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office documents the scene at Stout's Auto Service, on Wednesday, Sep 27, 2023, in Largo, Fla. (Douglas R. Clifford/Tampa Bay Times via AP)AP Police said in an email that evidence and witnesses indicate Becker felt he was overcharged when he brought a vehicle to Stouts for service in 2021. He went to the shop Wednesday with the intent to shoot the victim in retaliation for the perceived wrong. Becker had recently been in a car crash that left him depressed, according to family members. Largo is just west of Tampa. More: CEO charged in fatal workplace shooting returned to Pa., jailed without bail Pa. woman found guilty of first-degree murder for shooting husband: reports A Cumberland County man who was convicted of sexually abusing a child in 2022 was charged Thursday with producing and distributing child pornography in March 2017, the Department of Justice says. James Sollenberger, 54, is accused of engaging in sexually explicit conduct with a minor between March 5, 2017 and March 17, 2017, and then distributing the pornography on March 21, 2017, according to a press release. The investigation was part of the DOJs Project Safe Childhood, which was started in May 2006 to fight the sexual exploitation of minors. The maximum penalty for the charges against Sollenberger include 50 years imprisonment, up to a lifetime of supervised release following imprisonment and a fine. Sollenberger pleaded guilty to to one count of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse in February 2022 after making a deal to nullify other related charges. Prosecutors say he admitted he had a friends preschool-age daughter perform oral sex on him in a Cumberland County motel room in 2017. He was sentenced on May 24, 2022 to a minimum of six years and a maximum of 12 years in prison, court records say. As of Thursday, Sollenberger was incarcerated in Pennsylvania at SCI Coal Township serving his sentence. The court also ordered Sollenberger to submit a DNA sample and comply with all sexual offender conditions. The case against Sollenberger started with a cyber tip that led to his brother in Blair County. In May 2021, when police were interviewing Michael Sollenberger about an unrelated matter, he told them he thought they were there about his brother. He went on to tell them that some of the original pictures of child sex abuse that officers had shown him when they arrested him were actually of his brother, James. Michael Sollenberger said he didnt tell police about James initially, because you dont tell on family. But since his arrest, he said, he had come to recognize that what James had done was wrong, and he also said James had urged him to do what he had done. READ MORE: After 11 years, missing mans family gets answers: He was killed in love triangle, dumped in Pa. 3 ringleaders in Middletown football hazing case convicted in juvenile court JCPenney has launched a new clothing collection that was inspired by the Emmy Award-winning ABC show Abbott Elementary. The retailer said the clothing is designed to elevate everyday fashion with the ultimate role models teachers in mind. Abbott Elementary Teachers Edition, volume 1 includes 50 pieces that are stylish, comfortable and mix-and-matchable, nearly all under $100 and more than half under $50. The line includes colorful, patterned and neutral sweaters, jackets, dresses, knitted tops and woven shirts for both men and women in inclusive sizes ... JCPenney said some of the pieces were inspired by Abbott Elementary itself, including a kindness tote bag and sweater, similar to a necklace worn by the shows main character, Janine, portrayed by Quinta Brunson. The collection is available now online and in some stores. Teachers can receive an additional 10% off when they show their teacher ID, in-stores only, until Oct. 8. JCPenney said its new line of advertising for the collection will feature seven real-life educators highly respected within the teaching community ... They include Barry White, a teacher turned principal from Charlotte, N.C. whose student handshakes went viral; Mrs. Bo, a TikTok personality and mathematics teacher from Idaho; and fourth-grade teacher and TikTok educating phenomenon, Mr. Talcott from Redmond, Washington. Selections from the womens collection include: Selections from the mens collection include: JCPenney has launched a collection of clothing for teachers inspired by the Emmy Award-winning ABC show set in Philadelphia, Pa., "Abbott Elementary." (Photo provided by Business Wire) Abbott Elementary airs on ABC. It was created by Quinta Brunson, who portrays the lead character, a second-grade teacher at the fictional school in Philadelphia, Pa. The show also stars Tyler James Williams as Gregory Eddie, Lisa Ann Walter as Melissa Schemmenti, Sheryl Lee Ralph as Barbara Howard, Janelle James as Ava Coleman, Ayo Edebri as Ayesha and Chris Perfetti as Jacob Hill. Abbott Elementary was renewed for a third season, which is expected to air in late 2023 or early 2024. You can watch ABC without cable on fuboTV, which has a free trial. What is fuboTV? FuboTV is a streaming service that offers more than 100 live and on-demand channels and includes cloud DVR. FuboTV has a seven-day free trial. Channels include AMC, E!, HGTV, ESPN, NBC Sports, NFL Network, FS1, MSNBC, Food Network, Great American Living, Magnolia Network, Animal Planet, Bravo, FX, CMT, Comedy Central and Hallmark. The Pro plan is $69.99 a month, Elite is $79.99 a month and Ultimate is $99.99 a month. Add-ons include EPIX, Showtime and Starz. Knowing where not to go is just as important as knowing where to go when it comes to traveling. And according to a recent survey, this city in Pennsylvania should be avoided at all costs. The Vacationer a travel-focused publication which seeks to deliver accurate and comprehensive breaking news and guides to help better your travel experiences and vacation planning sent out this survey to over 1,000 Americans over the age of 18 across the country. Cities that were included were chosen based on both population size and tourism popularity. The surveys results were published in a report which ranked the City of Brotherly Love Philadelphia as 19th overall when it came to locations that people should certainly cross off their to travel list, placing it amongst the top 20. But to be fair, thats still far better than the top three: Atlanta, Ga. (which was third); Chicago, Ill. (second); and Detroit, Mich. (first). Detroit, Michigan, is the major US city most avoided by American travelers, the report elaborates. Nearly 23% of American adults stated they would avoid traveling to Detroit at all costs. This means nearly a quarter of Americans will not travel to Detroit under any circumstances. Based on the recent Census, the 22.5% that said this represents more than 58 million people. The city at the bottom of the list with only 4.91 percent of people saying theyd avoid was Honolulu, Hawaii. By Ryan Teague Beckwith and Courtney McBride, Bloomberg News (TNS) WASHINGTON Giant pandas are everywhere at Washington, DCs National Zoo. Three live in the zoos $50 million Asia Trail. T-shirts, trucker hats and refrigerator magnets bear their image. A 24-hour panda-cam broadcasts the trios every move. Even the QR code to reserve zoo tickets features a panda silhouette. Now, after more than 50 years, Washingtons pandas are going away maybe for good. The zoos three pandas are set to return to China by December with the expiration of a three-year agreement with Chinas wildlife agency that month. Its not just the U.S. capital. The three other U.S. zoos that have Chinese pandas Atlanta, San Diego and Memphis have turned over their pandas or will see them return to China by the end of next year. Although both sides deny politics are at play, China has long used Panda Diplomacy to curry favor, reward friends and punish adversaries. And the loss of Americas last pandas comes at a moment when ties between the U.S. and China have hit a historic low, with most avenues of cooperation cut off. In the same vein, any hope that Washington will get new pandas rests on recent signs that ties might be getting a little better or, at the very least, not getting worse. Theres some significance to the fact that all of the pandas in the United States will be back in China by next year, said Elena Songster, a professor at Saint Marys College of California and author of Panda Nation, a book about Chinas panda policy. They have a plan. They know what theyre doing. The push-and-pull over pandas reflects in part the quirky way they show up in zoos around the world. Zoos dont get full custody of pandas. Instead, they rent them, signing contracts to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars every year to China. Male giant panda Xiao Qi Ji rolls around in his enclosure during a "Panda Palooza" event at the Smithsonian National Zoo on Sept. 23, 2023, in Washington, D.C. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images/TNS)TNS After years of renewing those contracts, the Smithsonian Institution, which oversees Washingtons zoo, wasnt able to do so again. Earlier this year, the Memphis Zoos panda, Ya Ya, got swept up in a nationalist fervor back home including accusations of mistreatment after images showed it looking emaciated and its fur mangy. The animal, which the U.S. and China said was healthy, went home in April. The U.S. was rewarded with its first pandas after former President Richard Nixon normalized ties in 1972 and many other nations followed. A 2013 study found a correlation between uranium deals and panda loans to Canada and France. In 2018, China loaned out pandas to Finland to mark a centennial of Finnish independence. From the goodwill gestures of Nixon-era diplomacy, theyve evolved into todays emblems of discord, said Lizzi C. Lee, a fellow at the Chinese Economy program at the Asia Society Policy Institute. Pandas have become canvases for narratives of distrust and rivalry. There are plenty of non-political reasons why the pandas may be going home now. One explanation is that the pandas leaving U.S. zoos are all reaching the age when they would go home anyway. Some pandas departure was delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which also slowed Chinas loan system. With pandas no longer classified as endangered, China is building its own network of national parks, and may not feel the need to send them abroad to be conserved and bred. Its unclear what comes next for the Washington zoo. The move could be temporary, as happened in 1999 when the zoo went without pandas for a year, given that the pandas are approaching the age when theyd return home anyway. Or China may offer them as a reward in some future diplomatic negotiation. More: Viral video captures giant pandas playing in the snow This article has been updated to correct terminology Two major criminal justice bills are being negotiated as a pair by Pennsylvania lawmakers, potentially holding up both items as legislators haggle over the details of measures dealing with probation reform and the sealing of criminal records. The ACLU and other organizations turned out in Harrisburg Wednesday to oppose the probation reform proposal that they say may actually make Pennsylvanias probation problems worse. But the bill did not appear on the House calendar for a final vote, much to the surprise of both advocates and some lawmakers themselves. The Senate-approved probation bill did not run in the Democratic-controlled House because the Republican-controlled Senate has not agreed to run the Houses criminal records bill, an expansion of the states Clean Slate act. The office of House Majority Leader Matt Bradford, D-Montgomery County, confirmed the probation bill was withheld Wednesday because the Senate has not yet agreed to advance the Clean Slate measure. The Senate has tied passage of Clean Slate to the passage of this bill, said Rep. Emily Kinkead, D-Allegheny County, a House Judiciary Committee member who worked on the probation bill. On Tuesday, the House amended that bill to reinstate some language previously removed by the committee - an attempt to secure a consensus on the probation bill, and thus ease the passage of the Clean Slate expansion, Kinkead said. We have had what I understood to be a trade between those two criminal justice bills that are both very important, said Rep. Sheryl Delozier, R-Cumberland County, a sponsor of the Clean Slate bill. The conversation was that it was a switch, that we would do the Senate bill on probation and the House bill on Clean Slate. The probation bill sponsor, Sen. Lisa Baker, R-Luzerne County, was not available to comment on negotiations Wednesday, according to her staff. But Delozier said conversations with Baker and Senate leadership over both bills are ongoing, and were trying to work through those issues. The Clean Slate expansion bill, championed by Delozier and Rep. Jordan Harris, D-Philadelphia, passed the House in June. It calls for the sealing of criminal records to include certain non-violent felonies, mostly drug offenses. The current Clean Slate provisions cover only summary and misdemeanor offenses. The idea of sealing old convictions, as well as charges that dont result in a conviction, has enjoyed widespread support in the legislature as a way to eliminate barriers to housing and employment. The holdup in the Senate, Delozier said, comes from one of the bills side effects. As a PennLive investigation found, many local courts are sealing entire cases because one of the charges involved was dropped, even if the defendant pled guilty to a more serious charge for the same incident. This was never the intent of the law, and I believe its a misinterpretation by clerks of court as to what cases are to be sealed, Delozier said one which she said could be fixed by the courts themselves and does not necessarily warrant a legislative solution. However, if the Senate is set on addressing the problem through the bill, were open to the idea of figuring out something, Delozier said. The probation bill adds 20 pages of new language to the probation portion of the states crime code. The intent, according to Bakers bill memo, is to create new, clearer parameters in order to eliminate excessive incarceration for probation violations and make the system more fair for those seeking a second chance. But the ACLU and like-minded groups have described the bill as overly-complicated and counter-productive. The bills language limiting when a person can be confined for a technical probation violation includes numerous exceptions, which would give judges more grounds to jail someone for minor violations, not fewer, the ACLU said. It doesnt really reduce the instance of people being found in violation, said Veronica Miller, counsel for the ACLU of PA. Theres a lot to be read into the language because its not well-constructed. It sounds very good from a laypersons perspective, said Dolly Pradhu, an attorney with the Abolitionist Law Center. But from a legal standpoint, the definitions intended as guardrails actually lay it out in a way that makes judges feel more empowered to confine people for technical violations. Similar concerns were also raised about the bills requirements for routine probation conferences, accelerated sentence reviews, and administrative probation for those who owe restitution. Some of this language was taken out by the House Judiciary Committee, but added back in a modified form on Tuesday in an attempt to reach consensus, Kinkead noted. A provision in the bill allowing victims to raise formal objections to probation status reports was removed by the committee, but replaced Tuesday with language allowing victims to provide input and still receive the reports something the ACLU has said raises privacy concerns, along with the fact that the bill does not require that a defendants attorney be allowed to be part of the review process. In addition, a provision giving the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency the power to approve accelerated review was removed and then substituted with language giving the commission an advisory role; the debtors probation language was also stricken and then reinstated. Some criminal justice groups have endorsed the probation bill as-is. The Reform Alliance, along with several dozen business and community groups, wrote a letter of support saying that the bills reasonable guidelines would be used to bring decreasing instability in our workforces and communities. Both the House and Senate are scheduled to return to session Oct. 2. Police in Dauphin County held a retirement ceremony for one of their loyal four-legged officers on Wednesday evening. Rex a German Shepherd born in Holland served with Lower Paxton police for more than eight years alongside Corporal Chad Miller after completing training in April 2015. Miller and Rex recorded 2,064 training hours together throughout their partnership, officials said. Some of Rexs recent career highlights include helping to nab four men who were linked to a retail theft from an Ulta Beauty store last year. They lead police on a car chase until the suspects lost control and crashed. Rex also helped in the Chester County search for a prison escapee who was on the loose for two weeks. About 100 police officers, community members, local government officials and first responders attended the ceremony at the Dauphin County Heroes Grove Amphitheater in Brightbill Park. Police say Miller and Rex seized 316 pounds of marijuana, 100 marijuana plants, 200 THC vape cartridges, 70.68 pounds of cocaine, two pounds of methamphetamine, 1.2 pounds of heroin, $271,647 in U.S. currency and 61 firearms. Rexs career included 107 suspect tracks, 51 building searches, 43 article searches, 134 K9 demonstrations and public relations events, 43 school narcotics searches, five prison narcotic searches and 124 US Marshal warrants on 264 deployments. A total of 110 apprehensions were credited to Rex, 99 of which did not involve biting. One of the 11 cases that did end with a bite was the police pursuit of the Ulta theft suspects, officials said. Rex was deployed into the suspects car through the front passenger-side window, after the occupants refused to exit, police said. Another one of Rexs bites resulted in a lawsuit filed against the police department last year by a man who said the officers decision to send Rex after him was excessive force. At Wednesday ceremony, Lowman Henry, chairman of the Lower Paxton Township supervisors, said Rex was able to help keep officers safe during their dangerous work. Rex has been a great member of the force, he said . We also want to thank Cpl. Miller for doing a great job in training Rex and look forward to seeing him working with our new police K9, named Six. Over his career, Rex served in 26 of Pennsylvanias 67 counties as well as helping in Maryland. Rex, the command staff and officers of the Lower Paxton Township Bureau of Police thank you for your service. We all hope you enjoy the retirement with your family. May you enjoy lazy days on the sofa, endless naps and leisurely walks through the woods. Thank you, said Adam Kosheba, Director Of Public Safety for Lower Paxton Township. Rex was also featured in a national calendar that sold over 700,000 copies and took a trip to Los Angeles with another Lower Paxton K9 to be on Americas Top Dog. K9 Hurricanes Heroes a charity that helps retired police dogs will cover Rexs medical bills as he lives out the rest of his life with Millers family. A local business owner presented a $5,000 check to the Lower Paxton Bureau of Polices K9 division in Rexs honor. Sept. 27, 2023 was also marked Lower Paxton K9 Rex Day. During Rexs service alongside Miller he was a certified narcotics K9 and was a member of the Lower Paxton Community Engagement Team, U.S. Fugitive Task Force, Dauphin County Drug Task Force, Dauphin County Gang Task Force, Dauphin County Mobile Field Force and the South Central Task Force. READ MORE: After 11 years, missing mans family gets answers: He was killed in love triangle, dumped in Pa. UPS plans to hire about 2,000 seasonal employees in the Harrisburg area While Congress is burning the midnight oil trying to avoid a federal government shutdown on Saturday, Pennsylvanias state government officials are assessing the impact it could have on key programs that residents rely on to put food on their tables and pay their bills. For the more than 62,000 Pennsylvanians employed by the federal government, the impact of Congress failing to pass a budget bill - even a temporary one to buy more time to reach a compromise - could hit hard and may worsen if a deal isnt reached in short order. Officials with Gov. Josh Shapiros administration said they are assessing the situation. The governors office is working with agencies to prepare for a shutdowns potential impacts to commonwealth programs and employees. The Shapiro Administration is focused on making sure we continue to deliver programs and services to Pennsylvanians in the event of a federal government shutdown, said Dan Egan, a spokesman for the governors Office of Administration. He was unable to offer any further specifics as of Wednesday afternoon. What we know: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Benefits (SNAP): Nearly 2 million Pennsylvanians rely on the federally funded Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps, to help buy groceries. Their monthly allotment of benefits would continue through October, according to the Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. He added: If the shutdown were to extend longer than that, there would be some serious consequences to SNAP. A spokeswoman for the state Department of Human Services said the department would need to re-evaluate impacts if a shutdown lasts beyond October. But spokeswoman Laura Humphrey added: It is important to note that SNAP benefits do not expire as long as the recipients [electronic benefit transfer] card remains active, which requires the card to be used at least once every nine months. Women, Infants and Children program (WIC): In Pennsylvania, more than 178,000 low-income mothers and children depend on this federal program for food, health care and other services, according to the state Department of Health. We understand that the potential of a federal government shutdown leaves everyone who relies on these services uneasy, said health department spokesman Barry Ciccocioppo. We received additional direction from the USDA [Wednesday] afternoon that would allow WIC recipients to continue receiving benefits beyond the start of the new [Oct. 1] fiscal year. Whats unclear is how far beyond Saturday the benefits would continue if a shutdown occurs. Vilsack has been quoted in national media saying WIC funding would stop immediately but the U.S. Department of Agriculture has a contingency fund that could cover a few more days. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and Medicaid (TANF): Neither of these programs would be affected by a shutdown, according to the Department Human Services. Medicare and Social Security: These entitlement programs are funded outside the annual appropriations process and will not be affected. Internal Revenue Service: Will continue to operate but according to the Washington Post, it will do so with as few as a third of its workforce. Travel: While air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration agents will remain on the job, they will be working without pay until a budget bill or stopgap budget bill is passed, according to the Washington Post. In the past, the stress and fatigue of not getting a paycheck, along with already stressful jobs, led to more controller mistakes, limits on the number of flights and longer lines getting through airport security. On a positive note, the State Department will continue to issue passports and visas as long as their funds hold out. Head Start: There is no immediate impact on the education, health and social services to families of the 35,000 Pennsylvania children ages 3 to 5 that it serves, said Kara McFalls, acting executive director of Pennsylvania Head Start. But she added the situation could change depending on the length of a shutdown. If the shutdown stretches from days to weeks into November the likelihood of closed classrooms and furloughed staff increases dramatically and that could have an impact on Pennsylvania, McFalls said. Unemployment assistance: Pennsylvania Unemployment Compensation employees will continue working and jobless benefits will continue to be processed and paid if a federal government shutdown occurs, according to the state Department of Labor & Industry . It could cause a small influx of monthly unemployment compensation claims from furloughed federal employees although the vast majority of federal employees in the commonwealth are essential and would continue working. In that scenario, the department will issue guidance to help federal employees navigate the process, a department spokesman said. Otherwise, the department is evaluating how a federal government shutdown could impact other programs. Military installations: Active-duty and mission critical personnel at military installations would remain on the job without pay until a shutdown ends, although legislation has been introduced in Congress to avoid a pay stoppage. Civilian employees of the military would likely be furloughed, according to White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby. The Naval Support Activity Mechanicsburg has 4,600 employees, a significant percentage are civilians. Navy installations will continue mission critical activities, emergency work involving the safety of human life or the protection of property, and other excepted activities as directed by the chain of command to sustain the fleet in the event of a government shutdown, said Christopher Cleaver, spokesman for the Naval Support Activity. The Department of Defense website says post and base services would be closed or limited. Elective surgeries and procedures in its medical and dental facilities would have to be postponed. Commissaries in the U.S. would close. The vast majority of employees who work at the Eastern Distribution Center at the Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Susquehanna in Fairview Township will not be immediately affected, according to DOD officials. That agency is funded through a separate Defense Working Capital Fund. A short history of shutdowns: This isnt the first time Congress has failed to agree on a spending bill by the Sept. 30 deadline. In fact, this would be the 22nd shutdown in five decades with the shortest lasting only hours in February 2018. The longest shutdown began later in 2018 and extended into early 2019, lasting 34 days. * This story has been updated to reflect a report in the Washington Post about a shutdowns impact on the Internal Revenue Service. Jan Murphy may be reached at jmurphy@pennlive.com. Follow her on X (formerly Twitter) at @JanMurphy. Read more on PennLive: US Rep. Scott Perry, rarely working from the middle, seeks federal budget compromise to a point Congress says it wants to avoid government shutdown, but isnt working that way By Brian C. Rittmeyer, The Tribune-Review (Greensburg, Pa.) (TNS) Sep. 27An important deadline is looming for millions of Pennsylvania residents who get health insurance through Medicaid that, if missed, could result in losing coverage. But even if residents find themselves no longer eligible for Medicaid, there is another way to keep coverage. Dr. Val Arkoosh, secretary of the state Department of Human Services, delivered the message during an appearance Wednesday at Wesley Family Services Pioneer Apartments in New Kensington. It coincided with an open house for Wesleys new wellness center at the apartment and office building. Arkoosh said those attending could help spread the word so those eligible to receive Medicaid can remain enrolled. During the pandemic, we had the ability to keep anyone who was enrolled in Medicaid enrolled in Medicaid no matter what. But the pandemic has ended, she said. The federal government has required that we go back to our pre-pandemic processes of once a year having to redetermine whether or not an individual still is eligible to receive health care through the Medicaid program. Arkoosh said 3.5 million Pennsylvanians get health care through Medicaid and are at risk of losing it or having a gap in coverage. The process started April 1 and will take an entire year to complete, she said. Nobody is going to lose their health insurance automatically, she said. Every single person will be given an opportunity to submit their information and make sure that they still qualify, and if they dont still qualify, we have a plan for that, too. All residents covered by Medicaid or CHIP, the Childrens Health Insurance Program, will have a chance to complete a renewal or update their information in coming months, Arkoosh said. By completing a renewal and submitting it, we can figure out if you still qualify to get your health care through Medicaid, she said. And if you dont, we will automatically and securely connect you to other sources of coverage. Those other sources include Pennie, the states health insurance exchange that replaces the federal marketplace at healthcare.gov. You can buy health coverage from a variety of different sources directly from an insurance company, but Pennie is the only way that you receive financial savings to reduce the cost of your monthly payment or out-of-pocket cost, said Chachi Angelo, director of external affairs for Pennie. At Pennie, you can compare health plans across different companies and find which best works for you, your family, and what best works for your wallet. Angelo said its done through a tax credit only available through Pennie, where monthly payments are based on income. Pennie is designed to pick up where Medicaid leaves off, he said. If you make too much for Medicaid, chances are that you will receive significant savings through Pennie. Of more than 20,000 people already enrolled after losing Medicaid coverage, Angelo said about half are paying $50 per month, while one in five is paying less than $1 per month for a $500-per-month plan. Many in this area have already experienced the peace of mind that comes with Pennie coverage, he said. Over 10,000 individuals in Westmoreland County signed up for 2023 coverage. For residents to get information about their Medicaid renewals by mail, Arkoosh said her department needs to have up-to-date contact information. That can be updated, if needed, online at dhs.pa.gov/staycovered, through the Compass smartphone app, or by telephone at 877-395-8930. Those who dont know their renewal dates can check them online, through the app or by phone. When the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services has your correct contact information, we will contact you with plenty of time before your renewal is due, she said. Once you know your renewal date, you will be able to make sure that you complete that renewal on time. Those who miss their renewal deadline can return their packet late, she said. You can also appeal a decision that we made. If you think we made a mistake, you have every right to appeal our decision, and we encourage you to do that, Arkoosh said. We just want to make sure that we keep every Pennsylvanian covered. Those who think they may no longer be eligible because of a change in circumstances, such as a job with better pay but no health insurance, still should submit a packet, Arkoosh said. If, indeed, youre not eligible for Medicaid any longer, we will then send your information over to Pennie. You dont have to start over, she said. Youll be given a login for a new account on the Pennie system, and then you can shop for health insurance plans on our Pennsylvania health insurance exchange. Arkoosh urged state residents on Medicaid to check their renewal dates, make sure the state has their current contact information, and, as their renewal dates approach, look for information in the mail from the Department of Human Services. This is so important because this is about your health, the health of your family, the health of your loved ones, your friends, your neighbors, she said. We dont want anyone to go without coverage.nnsylvania residents who get health insurance through Medicaid that, if missed, could result in losing coverage. But even if residents find themselves no longer eligible for Medicaid, there is another way to keep coverage. Dr. Val Arkoosh, secretary of the state Department of Human Services, delivered the message during an appearance Wednesday at Wesley Family Services Pioneer Apartments in New Kensington. It coincided with an open house for Wesleys new wellness center at the apartment and office building. Arkoosh said those attending could help spread the word so those eligible to receive Medicaid can remain enrolled. During the pandemic, we had the ability to keep anyone who was enrolled in Medicaid enrolled in Medicaid no matter what. But the pandemic has ended, she said. The federal government has required that we go back to our pre-pandemic processes of once a year having to redetermine whether or not an individual still is eligible to receive health care through the Medicaid program. Arkoosh said 3.5 million Pennsylvanians get health care through Medicaid and are at risk of losing it or having a gap in coverage. The process started April 1 and will take an entire year to complete, she said. Nobody is going to lose their health insurance automatically, she said. Every single person will be given an opportunity to submit their information and make sure that they still qualify, and if they dont still qualify, we have a plan for that, too. All residents covered by Medicaid or CHIP, the Childrens Health Insurance Program, will have a chance to complete a renewal or update their information in coming months, Arkoosh said. By completing a renewal and submitting it, we can figure out if you still qualify to get your health care through Medicaid, she said. And if you dont, we will automatically and securely connect you to other sources of coverage. Those other sources include Pennie, the states health insurance exchange that replaces the federal marketplace at healthcare.gov. You can buy health coverage from a variety of different sources directly from an insurance company, but Pennie is the only way that you receive financial savings to reduce the cost of your monthly payment or out-of-pocket cost, said Chachi Angelo, director of external affairs for Pennie. At Pennie, you can compare health plans across different companies and find which best works for you, your family, and what best works for your wallet. Angelo said its done through a tax credit only available through Pennie, where monthly payments are based on income. Pennie is designed to pick up where Medicaid leaves off, he said. If you make too much for Medicaid, chances are that you will receive significant savings through Pennie. Of more than 20,000 people already enrolled after losing Medicaid coverage, Angelo said about half are paying $50 per month, while one in five is paying less than $1 per month for a $500-per-month plan. Many in this area have already experienced the peace of mind that comes with Pennie coverage, he said. Over 10,000 individuals in Westmoreland County signed up for 2023 coverage. For residents to get information about their Medicaid renewals by mail, Arkoosh said her department needs to have up-to-date contact information. That can be updated, if needed, online at dhs.pa.gov/staycovered, through the Compass smartphone app, or by telephone at 877-395-8930. Those who dont know their renewal dates can check them online, through the app or by phone. When the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services has your correct contact information, we will contact you with plenty of time before your renewal is due, she said. Once you know your renewal date, you will be able to make sure that you complete that renewal on time. Those who miss their renewal deadline can return their packet late, she said. You can also appeal a decision that we made. If you think we made a mistake, you have every right to appeal our decision, and we encourage you to do that, Arkoosh said. We just want to make sure that we keep every Pennsylvanian covered. Those who think they may no longer be eligible because of a change in circumstances, such as a job with better pay but no health insurance, still should submit a packet, Arkoosh said. If, indeed, youre not eligible for Medicaid any longer, we will then send your information over to Pennie. You dont have to start over, she said. Youll be given a login for a new account on the Pennie system, and then you can shop for health insurance plans on our Pennsylvania health insurance exchange. Arkoosh urged state residents on Medicaid to check their renewal dates, make sure the state has their current contact information, and, as their renewal dates approach, look for information in the mail from the Department of Human Services. This is so important because this is about your health, the health of your family, the health of your loved ones, your friends, your neighbors, she said. We dont want anyone to go without coverage. READ MORE: Medicaid coverage restored to about half-million people following computer errors The Pennsylvania Veterans Memorial at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery is ready to reopen to the public. The memorial near Annville, Lebanon County, was closed on Oct. 7, 2022, for structural repairs. It will reopen to the public on Monday, Oct. 2, 2023. The memorial, which was dedicated in 2001, is nationally recognized as the largest veterans memorial located in any of the national cemeteries. It is made of concrete, granite, and stone, said the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs in a news release. The department said the memorial structure was in good condition but needed repairs and alterations to address areas of damage due to long-term exposure to the elements. Specific repairs included re-anchoring plaques, resetting existing pre-cast concrete, waterproofing walls, replacing flashing and upgrading drainage. Flagpoles and lighting have been added as new features to honor all services and traditions. Maj. Gen. Mark Schindler, Pennsylvanias adjutant general and head of the department, said they are happy it will be open in time for Veterans Day 2023. This memorial is a tribute to Americas veterans for their devotion, patriotism, selfless service and sacrifice on behalf of us all. We are thrilled to re-open it to the public in time for Veterans Day. I encourage everyone to visit this iconic structure and remember those who are part of our history and those who are presently serving. To help to preserve the memorial, donations can be made to the Pennsylvania Veterans Memorial Trust online or by sending a check made payable to the Pennsylvania Veterans Memorial Trust Fund to DMVA Office for Veterans Affairs, Bldg. 9-26, Fort Indiantown Gap, Annville, PA 17003-5002. Donations can be made in honor, in memory or on behalf of someone. The annual Veterans Day program is always held on the Sunday prior to Veterans Day. This year that is 2 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 5. A reward is being offered in the case of a missing man who was released by a Pittsburgh judge after being arrested for carrying $1.6 million in fentanyl. Yan Carlos Pichardo Cepeda, a 27-year-old New York resident, has been on the run since District Judge Xander Orenstein released him on a nonmonetary bond and Pichardo Cepeda failed to show for a Sept. 11 hearing. The Allegheny County Sheriffs Office is now offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to Pichardo Cepedas arrest. Pichardo Cepeda, who is charged with two felony counts of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and two misdemeanor counts of possession of a controlled substance, also missed a preliminary hearing on Sept. 19, which was rescheduled to Oct. 10. A wanted poster released by the sheriffs office says Pichardo Cepeda goes by the nickname Yanky and that anyone who has information about him should call 412-350-4715. Pichardo Cepeda was arrested on Aug. 31 at the Greyhound bus station in downtown Pittsburgh after police said he was caught carrying a kilogram of cocaine in a backpack and 9 kilograms of fentanyl in a suitcase. Authorities have said the fentanyl equates to about 450,000 doses, while WPXI-TV estimated that it would be enough to kill 35% of Pennsylvanians, or about 4.5 million people. The Allegheny County Sheriff's Office is now offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Yan Cepeda, who was charged on Aug. 31 with carrying a kilo of cocaine and 9 kilos of fentanyl. Cepeda was released on a no-cash bond by a district judge and has failed to appear for two subsequent court hearings. Allegheny Countys pretrial services opposed Pichardo Cepeda being released without bond, citing his seven prior arrests, two misdemeanor convictions and two pending cases in New York for sexual assault and grand larceny. Pichardo Cepedas release on the nonmonetary bond, meaning he did not have to put up any cash, has unleashed an avalanche of criticism aimed at Orenstein, especially as fentanyl deaths continue to ravage Pennsylvania. Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen Zappala previously told WPXI that Orensteins ruling was a very dangerous decision. Most recently, he told the station that even if Pichardo Cepeda is on the lam, at least the drugs were confiscated. I dont think were going to see the guy. The upside is we got 10 kilos off the street, Zappala said. Somebodys dying because of these opioids, and this (judge) is just letting this guy walk. Orenstein, who was elected in 2021 on a social justice reform platform, has repeatedly refused to comment to Pittsburgh media outlets citing the pending case. Last week, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reported that Orenstein was not the only judge involved in the controversial release. The Trib reported that Orenstein issued the nonmonetary bond ruling but also ordered that Pichardo Cepeda be put on electronic monitoring. District judges in Allegheny County, though, are not allowed to order electronic monitoring. A county court spokesman told the Trib that jail staff asked District Judge Gene Ricciardi to clarify Pichardo Cepedas bond conditions on Sept. 1 and he withdrew Orensteins electronic monitoring requirement because of the rule banning district judges from imposing it. Ricciardi did not read the criminal complaint for Pichardo Cepeda or know the facts of the case when he allowed Pichardo Cepeda to be released, the spokesman told the Trib. If youre dreaming of a white winter, you might be in for a big disappointment, according to one outlook. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration projects El Nino will continue to influence weather patterns, resulting in warmer-than-average temperatures in the northern tier of the country from December through February. Models also indicate below-average precipitation in the north, while the southern part of the country could experience a wetter-than-normal winter. NOAA said the weather pattern is a change from the past three years when La Nina dominated. NOAA weighs in on its winter prediction. El Nino is here and still growing stronger, Robert Rohde, lead scientist for Berkeley Earth, an independent non-profit focused on climate analysis, told USA Today. NOAAs models show a 95% chance El Nino continues through the winter. The weather pattern occurs due to trade winds weakening over the tropical Pacific Ocean, which leads to warm ocean waters in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. The best chance for warmer than normal temperatures, according to predictions, is expected to occur in the Northeast, the Pacific Northwest and the upper Great Lakes states. In the southern half of the country, the outlook shows an equal chance for temperatures to be normal, above normal or below normal. NOAA weighs in on its winter precipitation outlook. As for precipitation, NOAA predicts much of the northern United States will be drier than normal between December and February. But, wetter winters are predicted in the South, Southern California, the Southwest, Gulf states and much of the East Coast, it said. Still, forecasters admit even the best laid predictions dont always pan out. Note that a strong El Nino does not necessarily equate to strong El Nino impacts locally, according to NOAAs Climate Prediction Center update. The forecast is nothing like the one predicted by the Old Farmers Almanac, which is suggesting we dig out snow boots and shovels. The almanac, which said it has been issuing 80%-accurate forecasts since 1792, is calling for a winter wonderland with crisp temperatures and oodles of fluffy white in areas of the United States that typically see snow - including the Northeast. READ MORE: While predictions about fall foliage can be tricky, Pennsylvanias unique foliage displays are so far promising to be impressive this year, according to reports compiled by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. After a long spring drought, timely summer rainfall and moderate temperatures helped to green the canopy of Penns Woods, setting the stage for a very colorful autumn display, reads a post on the DCNR Facebook page, accompanying the first of several weekly projections of the state of changing leaves in each county. A top official in Gov. Josh Shapiros administration resigned suddenly Wednesday after nine months on the job. No explanation for his resignation was given. In a news release announcing the departure of Secretary of Legislative Affairs Mike Vereb, Shapiros Chief of Staff, Dana Fritz praised him for helping get the new administration underway after Shapiros inauguration in January. Mike is a key member of our team and thanks to his dedicated service, the governors office is prepared for the work ahead, she said. Vereb, a former lawmaker who worked as a high-ranking executive in Shapiros office during his six years as attorney general, was not immediately available to comment. Shapiro named his senior advisor Thomas (TJ) Yablonski Jr. as the new secretary of legislative affairs effective Monday. Yablonski had served in senior roles through former Gov. Tom Wolfs administration and prior to that, worked for the state House of Representatives. TJ Yablonski brings a decade of experience serving Pennsylvanians and a deep knowledge of state government to this role, Fritz said. We are proud TJ will be stepping up into this to lead our Office of Legislative Affairs and continue our administrations work to bring people together and deliver real results for all Pennsylvanians. She credited Vereb, a former Republican House member, for working across the aisle to win passage of a law to expand access to breast cancer screenings, a landmark expansion of the property tax and rent rebate program, and Shapiros first budget - a package that has yet to be fully finalized. Vereb was named to the cabinet-level position in early January. Prior to that, he served as director of government affairs for the Office of Attorney General when Shapiro held that post. Fritz credited Vereb for securing funding for law enforcement and enhancing school safety while in that role in the attorney generals office. Vereb served in the House from 2006 to 2016 representing Montgomery County. Jan Murphy may be reached at jmurphy@pennlive.com. Follow her on X (formerly Twitter) at @JanMurphy. By Julia Terruso, The Philadelphia Inquirer (TNS) The shorts were short-lived. The Senate on Wednesday unanimously passed a bill that requires members to follow a dress code that will include a coat, tie and slacks for men, ending controversy triggered over Pennsylvania Sen. John Fettermans displaying his casual style on the floor. Though weve never had an official dress code, the events over the past week have made us all feel as though formalizing one is the right path forward, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement. I deeply appreciate Senator Fetterman working with me to come to an agreement that we all find acceptable, and of course I appreciate Sen. Manchin and Sen. Romneys leadership on this issue. The issue of a Senate dress code first came up after Schumer directed the Senates sergeant at arms to stop enforcing the unofficial dress code earlier this month. The rule-change primarily impacted Fetterman, who had previously been casting votes from the cloakroom in shorts and a hoodie but not stepping onto the Senate floor in his signature casual look. Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., walks on Capitol Hill on Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, file)AP In the days following Schumers directive, Fetterman presided over the Senate in shorts and a black short sleeve button up shirt, prompting continued outcry, largely from Republicans, who called it an insult to the decorum and tradition of the body. The ditched dress code had been the most talked about issue in Congress, even as a government shutdown lingers, something Fetterman had mocked as he observed the hullabaloo unfolding around him. He even tried to use the promise of formalwear as political bait. If those jagoffs in the House stop trying to shut our government down, and fully support Ukraine, then I will save democracy by wearing a suit on the Senate floor next week, he said last week. Ultimately, Fetterman voted for the dress code legislation along with all of his colleagues, and he told CNN he will wear a suit and tie on the floor. Casual dress will still be permitted in the cloakroom at the edge of the chamber, where Fetterman and other members can stand to cast votes. The bipartisan bill was cosponsored by Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Utah Republican Sen. Mitt Romney. More: John Fetterman trolls N.J.s indicted senator over and over Media wait outside B.C. Supreme Court, in Vancouver, B.C., on Tuesday, June 2, 2015. Rick Mihic, a senior investigator at Vancouver City Savings Credit Unit, says a bank account registered to Ibrahim Ali shows transactions in Burnaby on July 18, 2017, the day a 13-year-old was murdered in a B.C. park. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print House Ways and Means Committee Chair Jason Smith (R-MO) looked like a fool after presenting two key pieces of evidence of politicization of the DOJ that were dated August 7th 2020 and June 6 2017, both of which are times that Joe Biden was not the president or even the vice president or even a candidate. Both are timed during Donald Trumps tenure as the president. Smith is one of the three House committee chairs tapped by Kevin McCarthy to lead the Biden impeachment investigation, but he got into a heated scrap with an NBC News reporter. NBC Reporter: Question just about the timing of all of this. Youre talking about a two-tiered system of justice. Im not mistaken. August 7th 2020 Bill Barr was the Attorney General and Donald Trump was the president. So explain to me where the two-tiered system of justice comes into play? And then the WhatsApp message you have, I believe, is dated June 6th 2017. Joe Biden is not vice president or even a candidate for president at that time. So where is the direct connection to some sort of criminal malfeasance? The moment Smith steps in his own attempt to deceive the public and ends up suggesting that Donald Trump should be investigated: Smith: Well I think the facts speak for themselves. We have over 700 pages of examples of where people should be very concerned when youre talking about, um, uh, the what was your first question? Reporter: The timing of this is August 7th 2020. Bill Barrs the attorney. Oh, Donald Trumps the president. Smith suggests it doesnt matter who was in the White House then (it was Trump), but is still using this to implicate Biden: Smith: Yeah. And Leslie Wolf is a career employee. She was not a political appointee, and she was the one obstructing the investigation. It doesnt matter whos in the White House. We need to make sure that the Department of Justice works for all people and doesnt treat those who are politically connected or wealthy much differently. And unfortunately, we have several examples that came forward by the two IRS whistleblowers that proves that people are treated differently because theyre politically connected. What Im talking about is a 700 pages that we have before us, which is all the information that came from the I. R. S. Whistleblowers. And thats what were releasing right now. And Ill tell you, I would encourage everyone in this room to look at those 700 pages. If you think its okay with whats in it, then we live on two different planets. Reporter remains confused and wants to know why something dated during Trumps administration is. being used as evidence of Bidens alleged and unproven or even suggested wrongdoing: Reporter: Can you explain the timing? That would be on the sixth Whats App message? Why is that evidence of some wrongdoing? Smith has no answer, but repeats the Republican mantra that he has questions: Smith: Im not an expert on the timeline. I would love to have, um, President Biden and his family to tell us about all the timelines because its really, really unfortunate that we see so many meetings and so many phone calls that involved around official activity that the vice president has been participating in. And then um big sums of money follows later through. What is he even saying? Reporter would very much like an answer to the question: Reporter: He not vice president at the time. He was not even a candidate at the time. Smith takes refuge in smearing the source the reporter works for, because he cant answer a simple question about why they are holding Biden accountable for things that happened under Trump: Smith: He was a candidate in August. So apparently, uh, what source are you with? So apparently, youll never believe us. Reporter wont bite: Reporter: Im asking you a very direct question. You presented a piece of evidence that you say came on August 6 2017 That demonstrates that Joe Biden was using political influence to help his son, because at that time he wasnt a political official. The first WhatsApp message you put up, where you talk about the brand and Im not, Im completely open minded about this. Im asking you specifically, how does that demonstrate? that theres some sort of political influence being put over him. If at that time he is not a political, hes not an elected official. Instead of answering, Smith acts as if its way too specific of a question to respond to: Smith: Im definitely not going to pinpoint one item. I think weve outlined numerous. So apparently you dont agree with its a report that you disagree with it. Ill take the next question. Yes. This is one of the most deplorable excuses for an investigation I think the U.S. has ever witnessed. Instead of launching an investigation because reliable and credible evidence has built the case to do so, Republicans have launched an investigation sans evidence, and in struggling to come up with evidence, have ended up tripping on themselves repeatedly. This time, theyre trying to blame Joe Biden for things that happened when he wasnt in office or even running for office. As for these two IRS whistleblowers Republicans claim prove Bidens interference in the investigation into his son that resulted in harsher charges than most would face (this result itself is rather suggestive that the President did not interfere), several of the Republicans own witnesses dunked this claim, including IRS agents Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler, who said that neither AG Garland nor Biden interfered in the probe of Hunter Biden. Republicans claims have been repeatedly debunked and not even all of their own members are buying it. Speaker Kevin McCarthy himself has admitted this costly cosplay of an investigation is about hurting Bidens poll numbers as he faces off against current GOP front-runner Donald Trump for 2024. House Republicans evidence is dated during Trumps time as president. Are Republicans trying to finally impeach Donald Trump? Of course not. And that, my friends, is what politicization looks like. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print Judge Chutkan shot down Trumps motion to have her recused from his upcoming federal trial for his plot to overturn the 2020 election. Judge Chutkan wrote in her decision: This court has, from the beginning repeated its commitment to ensure the orderly administration of justice in this case as [in] any other case. August 11, 2023 Hrg Tr., ECF No. 29 at 72. That commitment echoes the courts solemn oath to administer justice without respect to persons, to do equal right to the poor and to the rich, and to faithfully and impartially discharge and perform all the duties . . . under the Constitution and laws of the United States. 28 U.S.C. 453. Based on its review of the law, facts, and record, the court concludes that a reasonable observer would not doubt its ability to uphold that promise in this case. Trumps lawyers seem to be laying the groundwork for an appeal if the former president is convicted, but there was never a chance that Judge Chutkan was going to recuse herself from the case. Part of the show that Trump is putting on is all about politics. The failed former president is attempting to convince his supporters that the entire court system is part of a vast conspiracy that is out to get him. It doesnt help Trumps lawyers that their client has claimed that every judge he has appeared before not named Aileen Cannon is biased against him. Donald Trump keeps trying to drag these cases out with silly and increasingly desperate motions, but with each passing day, the date draws closer for the ex-president to be on trial. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print Viewership of the first Biden impeachment hearing apparently dropped so much that both Fox News and Newsmax dumped their live coverage. During the Noon ET hour, both Fox News and Newsmax went back to regular programming: Fox News: Newsmax followed shortly after Fox News broke into its live coverage: Even Newsmax loses interest in the GOPs Biden impeachment hearing. pic.twitter.com/G6jQfjCQvN PoliticusUSA (@politicususa) September 28, 2023 MSNBC ignored the hearing and stuck to regular programming, and the rest of the networks did not provide much or anything in terms of coverage. The whole point of the fake impeachment hearing was to push the bogus allegations against Biden into mainstream media discussion, but the Republican hearing has been so unfocused and poorly presented that even conservative cable turned away when live viewership data apparently showed people tuning out. Fox News and Newsmax will cut the hearing into clips and feast on this as a central point of their coverage, especially in primetime, but if the point was to elevate the evidence-free charges against Joe Biden, House Republicans have failed. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print Rachel Maddow pointed out that the Republican presidential candidates talked about law and order during the debate, but they never mentioned Trumps 91 felony charges. Maddow said on MSNBC: So, what does all this mean? Why are we here when the candidates tonight talked over and over and over again about law and order or crime, law and order, the rule of law, law and order. They were awkwardly not talking about the far and away leading Republican candidate, former president Donald Trump, who is facing 91 felony counts in four separate criminal cases. Hes also now facing the possible dissolution of his business empire thanks to a devastating new ruling in the New York Attorney Generals multi-billion dollar fraud suit against him. Donald Trump is nevertheless leading the entire field of other Republican candidates by roughly 40 points nationally and by more than 30 points in each of the early voting states tonight. Video of Maddow: Maddow was correct. How can any Republican dare to talk about law and order when the leader in the presidential primary is facing 91 felony counts? The Republican debate featured a surreal detachment from reality and the partys current predicament. All of the people on the debate stage claim that they want to be president, but they dont do anything to make most voters think that they credibly could be president. Rachel Maddow highlighted one of the many reasons why the Republican debate was an embarrassment. The only contested Aiken City Council race in the Nov. 7 general election is beginning to heat up. Aiken City Councilwoman Gail Diggs, a Democrat representing District 1, and challenger DeMarcus Sullivan, a Republican, participated in a forum Tuesday evening hosted by the Kappa Upsilon Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha at Cumberland AME Church. District 1 includes the northeastern part of the city. Velice Cummings served as moderator for the forum. The candidates had a couple of minutes to answer each question. There was also time allocated for opening and closing statements. Reasons for running Diggs said she was running because she had unfinished business. She added she has been a member of several community and nonprofit boards to improve the community. Diggs said she serves because she cares. She said she's only missed two council meetings in her 12 years as a councilwoman. Diggs added there are some times that the council should be in executive session. Diggs said she and Councilwoman Lessie Price have had to fight for the city's Northside, adding that the district includes more than the city's Northside. She asked representatives from several neighborhoods to stand up. Sullivan said he was running for the people and District 1. He said he had seen some changes to the district but there weren't enough changes and the changes that have been made aren't the right ones. He said he wanted to see infrastructure improvements on the city's Northside. He added he wanted to increase the transparency of the Aiken City Council. Sullivan also called the city's decision to pursue Project Pascalis a "terrible decision." Top priorities if elected Sullivan said his top priorities would be working to retain public safety officers and city employees. He said he wanted to build new infrastructure but keep the city's history, too. Sullivan added he wanted to be a voice for the residents of District 1. Aiken Standard reporter Bianca Moorman is a public safety and courts reporter for the Aiken Standard, with the occasional coverage of other community news and features. She can be reached at @biancarmooman or bmoorman@aikenstandard.com. To support local journalism, sign up for a subscription. See our current offers GREENVILLE It began with a kitchen expansion and then the idea grew into more. This is how Nick Thomas explains his decision to create a full and thoughtful tequila bar inside his restaurant, Automatic Taco at The Commons. While Automatic Taco has always served margaritas, Thomas, an avid tequila appreciator, saw a chance to do a little bit more and showcase the nuance of the agave spirit. Want the latest food and dining news from Greenville? Sign up to receive our free newsletter every Thursday to keep you informed on everything happening in the Upstate culinary scene. Email Sign Up! Now, in addition to serving creative tacos with scratch-made sauces and accompaniments, Automatic Taco is also serving some creative tequila cocktails. In creating the experience, Thomas, along with his wife and business partner, Chrissy, has created an extension of the Automatic mindset. The taco shop, which began as a food truck in 2015, wowed people with its unexpected flavor combinations drawn from Nicks fine dining training. With its Korean pork belly taco, Indian butter chicken taco and green curry shrimp taco, Automatic Taco offered something a little unexpected. Similarly, the tequila bar does, too. The tequila menu is less sprawling than it is concerted. The selection of 15 or so rotating tequilas centers on showcasing the scope of the spirit but also the lesser known artisan varieties that Thomas himself has grown to love. All are curated from family-owned, smaller producers. When you have a good tequila, its almost like it opens up an entire new world, Thomas said. There are interesting flavor notes, vanilla, pineapple, caramel. Each bottle is different. The bar serves a number of cocktails, and also offers tequila flights. The cocktails range from familiar like a margarita and a paloma to more-unique like a guava margarita, a mezcal melon (mezcal, watermelon and ginger) and a cucumber smash (Thai basil, cucumber, house made spicy jalapeno-infused tequila). Moving forward, Thomas plans to incorporate Automatics tequila portfolio into some tequila tasting dinners. He has several in the works and plans to release details soon. Folly Beach suffered worse erosion from Idalia than it did from Hurricane Matthew, said coastal scientist Nicole Elko. The entire beach took an equal hit, said Elko, president of Folly-based Elko Coastal Consulting. Matthew killed four South Carolinians and caused over $100 million in damage. Idalia was downgraded to a tropical storm when it hit Charleston Aug. 30. But the storm exposed more sea walls, bulkheads and rock revetments than the 2016 hurricane, Elko said. The 19-square-mile beach an area about half the size of Disney World wasnt the only sandy shore Idalia eroded. In Edisto Beach, a 9-foot storm surge knocked down parts of the towns protected dunes, said Mayor Crawford Moore. Erosion at Isle of Palms made three beach-access paths impassable. Erosion is an old problem for Lowcountry beaches but one climate change has compounded. Three meteorological factors an offshore storm, a king tide and strong winds produced powerful surges during Idalia that washed away swaths of sand, Elko said. Sand loss jeopardizes Follys tourism-driven economy, she added. Equally concerning is erosions ecological impact: Shrinking beaches threaten sea turtle habitats. Idalia washed away about two-thirds of nests on Folly, about 2,500 eggs total, said Dave Miller of the Folly Beach Turtle Watch Program. Beach renourishment is one of South Carolinas best bulwarks against erosion, Elko said. Folly and Edisto were already set to be replenished with sand when Idalia drenched the coast. The storm didnt necessitate new projects, but it underscored the need to protect the beach. Americans celebrate Thanksgiving each November, thus kicking off a holiday season that lasts until January 1. Though many see November as the start to a festive time of year, there's even more interesting and fun facts about the eleventh month of the year. Read more5 fun facts about the month of November Voices sounding the alarm for higher first responder salaries on the Isle of Palms have steadily increased in volume recently at several public meetings and candidate forums, including the Oct. 24 City Council session that saw Kevin Cunnane articulate the potential risks of not giving firefi Read moreFormer CM calls for improved responder wages Reporter Adam Parker has covered many beats and topics for The Post and Courier, including race and history, religion, and the arts. He is the author of "Outside Agitator: The Civil Rights Struggle of Cleveland Sellers Jr.," published by Hub City Press, and "Us: A Journalist's Look at the Culture, Conflict and Creativity of the South," published by Evening Post Books. As a frequent visitor to Charleston, I have marveled at the beauty of the state. During a recent visit, I also took a side trip to Boston, traveling by air. I am a physician as well as a patient and worker-safety advocate. So when my driver in Boston asked me how he would identify me, I resp Read moreCommentary: Charleston airport needs to improve its air quality We can only imagine why Marlboro County Sheriff Charles Lemon ordered an underling to shred as many as 200 arrest warrants before he was suspended from office in late 2021 on unrelated criminal charges. Maybe the warrants involved friends of his. Or perhaps political supporters. Maybe he was just acting like the infamous postal workers who hoarded undelivered mail in their homes so they wouldnt have to do the work to deliver it. As The Post and Couriers Seth Taylor reports, the document shredding, which involved alleged crimes ranging from misdemeanors to murder, was discovered quite by accident when a victim called to find out why a perpetrator hadnt been arrested years after a judge agreed to issue a warrant Whatever his motivation, its easy to understand why Mr. Lemon thought he could get away with it. Its the same reason he thought he could get away with ordering a deputy to torture a prisoner while the whole incident was being videoed. Its the same reason more than a dozen other sheriffs thought they could get away with an array of crimes, from stealing money through their expense reports and running a drug ring to getting inmates to do personal work and creating false police reports to get people out of credit card debt. Its because South Carolina law teaches sheriffs to believe they're above the law. State law gives sheriffs the power to arrest people and fire employees at will. It gives them no direct supervisor, little oversight and access to multiple funding sources that arent well-scrutinized. Obviously, they have to be able to arrest people, and theres nothing inherently wrong with letting them fire employees at will. Whats wrong is allowing them to have that sort of power without any significant oversight. Genesis 12:2 and 7: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: 7 And the Lord appeared unto Abram, and said, unto thy seed will I give this land: and there built he an altar unto the Lord. Read moreRest assured, Israel will win MANNING Clarendon County will see its biggest job investment in its history begin operations in June 2024. Latitude Corp., a Wisconsin-based contract manufacturer of precision metal manufacturing solutions, will employ 200 people, with more possible, at the Clarendon County Industrial Park in Manning. The last record setter employed around 150 people. The goal, Tom Verbos, president of Latitude Corp., said is to get to 200 employees in the companys first South Carolina operation in phases over the next four years. He also said hed partner with local education groups to train people. The company could even look at bringing in more jobs as part of a 10-year plan. It is unknown if any hiring fairs will be held. Hiring will start in the second quarter of 2024. Gov. Henry McMaster attended the ceremonial groundbreaking of the $29 million investment Sept. 27 at the company's building in the industrial park alongside Sen. Kevin Johnson, D-Clarendon, Rep. Fawn Pedalino, R-Clarendon, and other county and community leaders. McMaster touted lowered taxes, remaining open during the COVID-19 pandemic and a military friendly state that boasts eight major installations and is a part of 8 percent of the states economy as reasons why business comes to the state. That is why these businesses are coming to South Carolina, McMaster said. Its always because of the people. The governor last year cut income taxes by $1 billion over five years and exempted veterans pensions from income taxes. Nikki Haley and Tim Scott confronted each other in a surprising and personal exchange on a national debate stage, with the former South Carolina governor accusing the politician she appointed to the U.S. Senate of doing nothing to balance the budget during his 12 years there. Scott, a North Charleston Republican, wasn't shy about confronting Haley. He accused her of overdecorating her home in New York when she was U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Their differences seemed so severe that when the Fox Business debate was over at 11 p.m., neither was seen shaking hands as the other onstage candidates did. The Republican presidential debate erupted Sept. 27 after both South Carolinians were asked why one should be elected president over the other. It wasn't the only major moment for the pair of presidential hopefuls from the Palmetto State as seven of the Republican hopefuls delivered their views for two hours at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif. Both also seemed to have to fight to be called on, with Scott being overheard at one point asking the moderators off camera, "Are you guys having trouble seeing me?" Both also unloaded on biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy. Here are five major moments from Haley and Scott during the second GOP presidential debate, where education, immigration, TikTok and the economy were all part of the questioning. Pentagon Press Secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder praised "the hard work of personnel in the Army, U.S. Forces Korea, and across the Department of Defense to bring Private King home." "We thank the government of Sweden for its diplomatic role serving as the protecting power for the U.S. in North Korea and the government of the People's Republic of China for its assistance in facilitating the transit of Private King," National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said in a statement Wednesday. A senior Biden administration official told reporters that King was transferred out of North Korea and crossed the border to China with the help of the government of Sweden. The official said the U.S. received him in China and transferred him home. The Pentagon says an American soldier who illegally crossed into North Korea in July is now in U.S. custody. There were no concessions given to North Korea for this exchange, a senior administration official told VOA during a briefing to reporters Wednesday. "We're going to focus for the next several weeks for as long as it takes to get private King on good -- on solid footing. And then we'll address any administrative actions that may follow after the reintegration process," the official said. A statement Wednesday from a representative of Claudine Gates, King's mother, said, "Ms. Gates will be forever grateful to the U.S. Army and all its interagency partners for a job well done." Earlier Wednesday, North Korea said it was expelling King after wrapping up its final investigation of him. He was taken by North Korean soldiers in July after dashing through the Koreas' heavily militarized border. King was facing pending administrative separation from the U.S. Army when he returned to his base in Fort Bliss, Texas, after spending time in a South Korean jail on assault charges. He was about to board a plane to the U.S. on July 17 when he snuck out of the airport and made it onto a civilian tour of the border complex between North and South Korea one day later. King was taken by North Korean soldiers on duty at the Joint Security Area, the official [North] Korean Central News Agency reported, when the plain-clothed soldier "deliberately intruded into the area of the [North Korean] side between the room for [North Korea]-U.S. military contacts and the restroom of security officers along the Military Demarcation Line." The KCNA said Wednesday that King had harbored ill feelings over inhumane treatment and racial discrimination within the U.S. army. It added that North Korea's interim findings were that King wanted refuge in North Korea or elsewhere because of that same reason. The Military Demarcation Line is the official border separating the two Koreas, put in place by an armistice that paused the 1950-1953 Korean War, which remains without a formal end and peace treaty. Another Republican presidential primary debate, another set of facts to check. At the second GOP primary debate, held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, seven candidates, minus frontrunner Donald Trump, clashed over everything from education to relations with Mexico. Though plenty of the candidates made tenuous claims, here's a look at South Carolinas two homegrown contenders, former Gov. Nikki Haley and U.S. Sen. Tim Scott, to see if what they had to say was grounded in fact or fiction. Haley and Scott both went on the attack during the debate, and it was on offense that they pulled out several claims in need of checking. DeSantis record on drilling Haley sought to undermine Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis pro-fossil fuels stance by pointing to his record in Florida where she said that on Day 2 of his administration, he banned offshore drilling and fracking, a controversial method of extracting natural gas from rock. When DeSantis strongly objected, Haley cried, Check it. Check it. This is mostly true but lacks context. DeSantis opposed fracking and offshore drilling during his 2018 run for governor, the Tampa Bay Times reported. But in the same election, Floridians also passed a constitutional amendment that banned drilling, as DeSantis pointed out at the debate. LAURENS Following accusations of adultery with a Washington lobbyist made by his wife, U.S. Rep. Jeff Duncan said in a statement he is focusing on the impending government shutdown. Duncan, a Republican first elected in 2010, released a statement Sept. 27 on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, saying his family is "dealing with a difficult and private moment." Duncan's wife filed for divorce Sept. 22, according to family court records. In court filings published by multiple media outlets, Duncan's wife, Melody Hodges Duncan, says Duncan left their marriage after he admitted to her he has had an ongoing sexual relationship with Liz Williams, a Washington lobbyist. Williams worked as a federal liaison for the National Rifle Association from 2006 to 2011, her LinkedIn profile shows, and now runs her own lobbying firm, Williams & Company. In court filings, Duncan's wife said her husband has had a previous affair over the course of their nearly 35-year marriage. In her filing, made in Laurens County's family court, Melody Duncan said the congressman has admitted these relationships to many other people, despite portraying an image of himself as a "dedicated, dutiful husband," court filings show. Her attorney did not respond to a request for comment from The Post and Courier on Sept. 28. The couple has three children. Duncan's released statement was geared toward the approaching cutoff this weekend in which Congress needs to adopt budget requirements or face a federal government shutdown. "My focus is fighting on behalf of the people of South Carolinas 3rd District as we stare down the barrel of a government shutdown as the liberal extremists try forcing us to continue spending beyond our means," his message read. When I was a kid we were taught in school that America is a nation of immigrants. It was seen as something to be proud of, even if it arguably left out Native Americans. But now the phrase is taking on a whole new meaning, as illegal immigrants threaten to take over from childbirth as our main source of population growth. Via InstaPundit: Without the mass deportation of tens of millions, including their children, covering over a decade of illegal entry since DACA, the US population and electorate is going to be defined by recent arrival illegal aliens in your lifetime. pic.twitter.com/Lord75zeCY ib (@Indian_Bronson) September 27, 2023 If that trend continues, it is hard to imagine what the country will look like or what will pass for its culture. The Republican candidates for president assembled minus President Trump for an event televised on the Fox Business channel last night. The event was held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley. The debate was moderated by Dana Perino, Stuart Varney and Ilia Calderon. Who is Ilia Calderon and what was she doing there? She posed hostile questions in heavily accented English. Why have you fleeped? she asked Chris Christie in one of her immigration-related questions. I take it that Calderons role was to remind us of the questions a mainstream media figure would ask the Republican candidate in a general election. The New York Times now gives her its blessing and commendation. That says it all. This was a terrible event. To say the least, the format is of questionable value. The moderators had a difficult job to do and performed it poorly. If Trumps popularity among the GOP faithful continues on its present trajectory, the race is over before it begins. As was the case with the Milwaukee event last month, the candidates on stage are fighting to survive long enough to see if Trumps troubles ever take a toll among the faithful or Republican voters might be persuaded by sober second thoughts. My minimalist comments on the candidates: Doug Burgum: He is an impressive man, but he came across as an annoyance. Indeed, he might have been a comic figure if it werent for the annoyance factor. He really wanted to talk about software. Software is in his wheelhouse. Chris Christie: His mission is to save the Republican Party from Donald Trump. I think its a worthy mission. His prepared line on Donald Duck was flat as North Dakota (thats the Burgum effect on me). It was pathetic. Judged solely by his performance on stage, however, I think Christie was by far the most effective communicator last night. He could give the other candidates lessons on effective communication. Mike Pence: Pence is a serious man. He did the right thing on January 6 despite the abuse of President Trump, but he isnt a strong presidential candidate. He had a good line knocking Ramaswamy when he said he was glad Vivek pulled out of his business deal in 2018 in China. That must have been about the time he decided to start voting in presidential elections. Tim Scott: After the Milwaukee event that he has staked his candidacy on his personal story. He builds the theme of American goodness on it. Its a powerful theme that has the additional advantage of being true. Vivek Ramaswamy: Vivek is a fake. Vivek is a mistake. Nikki Haley: Haley got off the line of the night ridiculing Ramaswamy: Every time I hear you I feel a little bit dumber. However, Ramaswamy is not her competition. Ron DeSantis: I thought he looked like a grouch and did best when he begged off an inappropriate question posed by Dana Perino. He is tightly wound with prepared remarks. He knows how to deal with the media. I have thought he was a strong candidate who would be able to press the case against President Biden and win. Now I am not so sure. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday expressed "unreserved apologies" on behalf of all of Canada after a 98-year-old veteran who served in a Nazi SS unit was honored Friday in the country's parliament. Yaroslav Hunka was invited to the legislature by Anthony Rota, the speaker of Canada's House of Commons, who resigned Tuesday over the incident. Trudeau said he had reached out to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who was on a visit to Canada at the time, in the fallout of the controversy. Both Zelenskyy, who is Jewish, and Trudeau were present for the incident. Zelenskyy had delivered remarks before Friday's joint legislative session when Rota described Hunka as "a Ukrainian hero, a Canadian hero." Rota pointed him out in the audience, giving way to two rounds of applause from the lawmakers and politicians who were in attendance to show support for Ukraine and Zelenskyy. Yesterday the House Ways and Means Committee posted a press release headed Bombshell: Ways and Means Releases New Documents Revealing Hunter Biden Selling Access to White House, Investigators Blocked from Pursuing Evidence Related to President Biden. The newly released documents are accessible online here. The press release includes highlights from the newly released documents. Whats it all about? New York Post columnist Miranda Devine is the go-to journalist on the Biden family business. She identifies the top five revelations contained in the committees 1,600-word press release (Devine refers to it as a report) and 31 newly released exhibits. IRS whistleblowers Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler produced the exhibits to the committee as supplemental disclosures (Shapley) or attachments to affidavits (Ziegler) in support of their testimony revealing the obstruction of their investigation of Hunter Biden in Delaware by the Department of Justice. Here are the top five hits included in Devines story on the press release and accompanying documents: 1. Uncle Jim Biden told the FBI and IRS in an interview last September that he and his nephew Hunter tried to help Chinese firm CEFC buy a US liquid natural gas facility in Louisiana and that they did so in the knowledge that the company was directly linked to Chinese President Xi Jinping. Hunter told his uncle that CEFC chairman Ye Jianming was a protege of President Xi, the FBI report says. But investigators were instructed not to ask Jim Biden if his brother, then-former Vice President Joe Biden, was involved in the ultimately unsuccessful CEFC deal or to follow normal investigative leads, says the committee. 2. IRS public affairs officer Justin Cole emailed the chief and deputy chief of IRS criminal investigations a report of conversations between a CNN producer and Hunter Biden, in which Hunter said that he was not willing to accept a plea deal and that he expected all of this stuff would go away when his dad becomes president. 3. The FBI was investigating Hunter Bidens friend and supporter Kevin Morris for campaign finance violations. These violations pertain to a wealthy Hollywood lawyer, Kevin Morris, who was enlisted to help the family, and who paid millions of dollars to help Hunter around the time that Joe Biden becomes president, says the committee. But Leslie Wolf, Delaware Assistant U.S. Attorney, told investigators that she was not personally interested in the Morris investigation and that she did not want any of the agents to look into the allegation. 4. Wolf refused multiple requests by Pittsburgh US Attorney Scott Brady to brief Delaware investigators about an FBI FD-1023 report alleging that Joe Biden was paid a $5 million bribe by an executive of Ukrainian energy firm Burisma, as was his son Hunter. The allegation came from a trusted FBI confidential human source during a June 2020 interview. But Wolf had already concluded no information from that office could be credible, stating her belief that it all came from Rudy Giuliani, Shapley said, even though the FBI report had nothing to do with Giuliani. On October 22, 2020, the Justice Department ordered the Delaware US Attorneys office to take the Pittsburg briefing, but Shapley said his investigators never saw the FD-1023, nor were told what it contained, despite the fact it was directly relevant to their case. 5. Wolf instructed investigators seeking a search warrant of a Biden property to erase any mention of Political Figure 1 who was Joe Biden. As anyone who has been following along so far might have figured, its all about Political Figure 1. Hillary Clinton was at the State Department yesterday for the unveiling of her official portrait as Secretary of State. She was ungracious as usual: Returning to the State Department for the unveiling of her official portrait, Mrs Clinton also used the occasion to display distaste for the policies of Donald Trump, the Republican former president, who defeated her in the 2016 United States presidential election. Mrs Clinton, the former US secretary of state, suggested that people might have questioned to USs ability to muster support for Ukraine because of Trumps legacy of alienating allies. People might have doubted that because we had burned so many bridges with our allies and our friends, she told current and former officials in the agencys ornate Benjamin Franklin State Dining Room. This has been a Democratic Party talking point for years, but there is no substance to it. Trumps foreign policies were successful. The Abraham Accords were a major accomplishment. His administration cemented our relationship with Israel, one of our most important allies. He smoothed over the gratuitous anti-British bias of the Obama/Clinton administration. He revitalized the NATO alliance by successfully pressing our allies to re-commit to it by increasing their military spending. He stood up to China and focused on improving our relationship with India. Trumps foreign policy record was, on the whole, very good, and the idea that he burned so many bridges with our allies is sheer fantasy. Contrast that with the Obama/Clinton record: the disgraceful sucking up to Irans mullahs; the Libya fiasco; the failure to identify Russia as a significant threat (The 1980s called, they want their foreign policy back); the rebuffs of Israel; Obamas pathetic retreat from his red line in Syria. Reinstating a foreign policy that actually brings people to us, not pushes them away, would have been thought to be extremely difficult. And indeed it was, but it was accomplished, she added, thanking Antony Blinken, the current secretary of state, for helping to restore Americas standing. It would be interesting to hear Hillary explain how Americas standing has been restored under the incompetent Biden/Blinken administration. The catastrophic withdrawal from Afghanistan was the worst foreign policy disaster in many years. The Biden/Blinken administration just paid billions to Irans mullahs, continuing Obamas bizarre policy of friendship and financial support toward our bitterest enemy. (Neville Chamberlain may have underestimated Hitler and made a foolish deal on Czechoslovakia, but it wouldnt have occurred to him to fund Germanys war machine.) Biden has also sold out our allies and given the Russians a reprieve by suppressing oil and gas production at the precise moment when our European allies need our fossil fuels more than ever. Then there is Russia. Or, more specifically, Vladimir Putin: Defending democracy in Ukraine, expanding Nato just as an aside, too bad Vladimir, you brought it on yourself, she said, prompting laughter and applause. Ah yes, Vladimir. The same Vladimir whom Hillary courted at the beginning of her tenure as Secretary of State. At least a few of our readers may remember that the incoming Obama/Clinton administration faulted George W. Bush for being unduly hard on the Russians. Tensions between us and them, Hillary thought at the time, were our fault. Hence her presenting the Russians with her famous reset button. Why did US-Russian relations need to be reset? Because that meanie George W. Bush had been too tough on the Russians. Obama and Clinton wanted to usher in a new era of accommodation. But that was then, and this is now. The Democrats have always been at war with Putin. That Hillary Clinton is ungracious is not new information. That she continues to be obsessed with her own political ups and downs has been apparent for quite a while. But she is also not very intelligent. For many years, Democrats have tried to promote Hillary Clinton as a uniquely brilliant person, the flower of Yale-educated womanhood, more than a match for any man. In fact, she was never more than a mediocre and unoriginal intellect, and a not very competent administrator. She has gone downhill steadily from there, as her State Department appearance exemplifies. We should all be eternally grateful that this utter mediocrity never became president. PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-28 18:15:30 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 579 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEWTOWN, PA / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / The law firm of Edelson Lechtzin LLP is investigating securities fraud claims on behalf of all purchasers of Archer Aviation, Inc. ("Archer") (NYSE:ACHR) common stock between September 17, 2021, and August 15, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period").Investors who purchased Archer Aviation, Inc. common stock may move the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California to appoint them as lead plaintiff, no later than November 20, 2023. Current holders of Archer's stock may pursue corporate governance reforms. Please contact Edelson Lechtzin LLP at 844-696-7492 to discuss your investment losses, or by e-mail at elechtzin@ edelson-law.com . A copy of the class action complaint can be viewed HERE.Background on Archer Aviation, Inc.Archer, headquartered in San Jose, California, specializes in the creation of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing ("eVTOL") aircraft designed for deployment in urban air mobility networks.The Securities Fraud ClaimsThe complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or omissions regarding Archer's business, operations, and prospects, including that: (i) Archer relied on heavily edited videos of earlier flights to exaggerate the amount of flight testing it had actually performed and the sophistication of its eVTOL aircraft; (ii) Archer had misrepresented the nature and profitability of its business partnerships; (iii) Archer was unlikely to secure FAA certification within the timeframe it had represented to investors, thereby delaying the start of mass production of its aircraft for commercial sales; (iv) accordingly, Archer overstated its financial position and/or prospects; and (v) the foregoing, once revealed, was likely to subject Archer to significant financial and/or reputational harm.On August 16, 2023, Grizzly Research released a report on Archer the "Grizzly Report") before the market opened. The report made various allegations against Archer, including that the company uses heavily edited videos of past flights to misrepresent the amount of flight testing they have done and the sophistication of their eVTOL aircraft. In addition, the Grizzly Report stated that former Archer employees and businesses near their flight-testing facilities reported that Archer conducts far fewer flights than they claimed. Finally, the Grizzly Report alleged that Archer has misrepresented the timelines for when their San Jose, California lab and manufacturing facility will become operational and when they will secure FAA certification for their prototype aircraft. On this news, Archer's stock price fell $0.41 per share, or 6.46%, to close at $5.94 per share on August 16, 2023.For more information, please contact:Marc H. Edelson, Esq.Eric Lechtzin, Esq.EDELSON LECHTZIN LLP411 S. State Street, Suite N-300Newtown, PA 18940Phone: 844-696-7492 or 215-867-2399 ext. 1Email: medelson@ edelson-law.comEmail: elechtzin@ edelson-law.comWeb: Edelson Lechtzin LLP is a national class action law firm with offices in Pennsylvania and California. In addition to cases involving securities and investment fraud, our lawyers focus on class and collective litigation in cases alleging violations of the federal antitrust laws, employee benefit plans under ERISA, wage theft and unpaid overtime, consumer fraud, and dangerous and defective drugs and medical devices.This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions. No class has been certified in this case, so you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. Your ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.SOURCE: Edelson Lechtzin LLP PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-28 23:15:45 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 994 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Cloud DX can now deliver digital Remote Patient Monitoring (dRPM) solutions to clients via Hospitals and via the Central Zone Primary Care Network in Alberta.News in SummaryCloud DX is the winner of a competitive Request For Proposal (RFP) to provide digital Remote Patient Monitoring (dRPM) hardware and services to Alberta Health Services (AHS).AHS is Canada's first and largest provincewide, integrated health system, responsible for delivering to health services to more than 4.4 million people.Cloud DX works with AHS to enable remote monitoring of patients at various sites for use cases that include chronic disease management, post-surgical recovery at home, and general medical virtual hospital care.This new contract has a duration of 2 years with a 1-year renewal option. It is Cloud DX's 21st contract or contract extension to be announced in 2023, vs 28 in all of 2022.KITCHENER, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Cloud DX (TSXV:CDX)(OTCQB:CDXFF), a leading North American provider of Remote Patient Monitoring services as part of the Cloud DX Connected HealthTM Virtual Care Platform is pleased to announce that it has been selected through a competitive RFP process as a provider of digital Remote Patient Monitoring (dRPM) products and services to Alberta Health Services (AHS).AHS has deployed the Cloud DX Connected HealthTM platform since May 2020, under a series of contracts signed during and after the COVID pandemic. Now, Cloud DX has won the competitive RFP to continue as a provider of dRPM devices and services to the provincial health authority.Digital Remote Patient Monitoring is used generally to support outcomes for patients with complex chronic conditions that include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure (CHF) and comorbidities including hypertension, obesity, and diabetes.Connected Health by Cloud DX includes our award-winning, patient facing mobile application, easy-to-use Health Canada licensed medical devices, smart software that gathers data from and connects to each patient at home, and comprehensive clinical workflows that improve both the efficiency of care delivery and healthcare outcomes for patients.Clients across North America now deploy Cloud DX Connected Health for chronic disease management, post-surgical monitoring, pulmonary and cardiac rehabilitation, diabetes, and palliative care use cases.dRPM using Cloud DX Connected Health has been shown, most recently in the peer-reviewed PCV-RAM-1 study, to dramatically reduce post-surgical medication errors, severe pain scores, ER visits and hospital readmissions.According to official stats from the Canadian Institute for Health Information ( www.cihi.ca) Patient Cost Estimator, exacerbation of chronic conditions resulted in over 11,000 hospital admissions in Alberta in 2021 averaging approx. 7 days each.Recent research, including a series of studies at Hamilton Health Sciences in Hamilton ON, has shown that dRPM using Cloud DX Connected Health can reduce the average length of a hospital admission by 1.9 days on average.Cloud DX is SOC 2 compliant and meets or exceeds Alberta Health Information Act (HIA) privacy and security regulations protecting personal health information.This is the 21st contract or extension announced so far in 2023 by Cloud DX vs 28 contracts / extensions announced in all of 2022.Robert Kaul, Founder and CEO of Cloud DX stated. "Cloud DX is very pleased to have been awarded this competitive dRPM contract with Alberta Health Services. Combined with the recently announced contract awards from Alberta Central Zone Primary Care Network and the Mohawk Medbuy shared services organization, Connected Health by Cloud DX is now, more than ever, the preferred dRPM solution for hospitals, physicians, community paramedics and provincial health authorities across Canada. With this announcement, our mission to make healthcare better for everyone in Canada takes another giant stride forward." About Cloud DXAccelerating digital healthcare, Cloud DX is on a mission to make healthcare better for everyone. Our Connected Health remote patient monitoring platform is used by healthcare enterprises and care teams across North America to virtually manage chronic disease, enable aging in place, and deliver hospital-quality post-surgical care in the home. Our partners achieve better healthcare and patient outcomes, reduce the need for hospitalization or re-admission, and reduce healthcare delivery costs through more efficient use of resources. Cloud DX is the co-winner of the Qualcomm Tricorder XPRIZE, winner of "2022 Top Innovator" from Canadian Business, a 2021 "Edison Award" winner, a Fast Company "World Changing Idea" finalist, and one of "Canada's Ten Most Prominent Telehealth Providers." Cloud DX is an exclusive partner to Medtronic Canada, Teladoc Health Canada, and leading hospital procurement agent Mohawk Medbuy.*Post-discharge after surgery Virtual Care with Remote Automated Monitoring-1 (PVC-RAM-1) technology versus standard care: randomized controlled trial. BMJ 2021:374:n2209 Sept 2021.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.# # #Cloud DX Investor Site https://ir.clouddx.com/overview/default.aspx Social LinksTwitter https://twitter.com/CloudDX Facebook https://www.facebook.com/clouddxinc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/cloud-dx/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cloud.dx/ For media inquiries please contact:Marketing EnquiriesPhone 888-543-0944marketing@ clouddx.com For investor inquiries please contact:Jay BedardCloud DX Investor RelationsPhone 647-881-8418investors@ clouddx.com Officer responsible for this Press Release:Robert KaulChief Executive OfficerPhone 888-543-0944ceo@ clouddx.com Forward Looking StatementsThis news release contains forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "estimates", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cau PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-28 01:31:51 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 524 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / September 27, 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, submit your losses nowIf you'd like more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the Discover Financial Services case and our investigation, read more 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: 2023-09-28 09:00:42 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 526 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Gen Unison organizes teams of elders and youth to prep communities for natural disastersHOUSTON, TX / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Gen Unison is a non-profit that has built an online community to unite individuals from Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers in the shared mission of stabilizing the planet for our future generations.The recent wildfires in Maui Hawaii, Italy, Greece, and Canada are sounding the alarm that communities must start preventative projects before the next disaster hits. As UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said in a reference to the record-breaking heatwaves sweeping the planet this summer, "the "Era of global boiling has arrived." Through mentor matching between younger members and elders, Gen Unison is creating an effective task force for climate change action on a local level."As our youth watch the chaos of climate change unfolding, their natural response is to blame their elders," says Gen Unison founder G. K. Hunter. "They're frustrated and scared that they will inherit a damaged planet, which is why so many teenagers are protesting. Our platform aims to rebuild trust between the generations by matching youth with trusted elders to launch and fund their community prep projects." Gen Unison's unique social media platform brings people of all ages together to start community projects, participate in support groups on Zoom, and try their mentor matching service. The intergenerational relationships that form during these projects also help to stabilize neighborhoods by creating an atmosphere of cooperation when crisis strikes.The multiple failures by the Federal, State, and County governments during the recent Maui wildfires show communities how important it is to have a climate action plan. Passively waiting for fires and storms to hit without having a community action plan can leave communities at the mercy of overstretched government agencies. Developing a community action plan with a mentor is the first step to ensuring your neighborhood will be prepared.Gen Unison's mission is rooted in the belief that unity across generations is essential to solving the problems posed by climate change. By creating intergenerational response teams in multiple towns, communities won't be at the mercy of strained government agencies when recovering from natural disasters and preventing power outages."We believe that our youth have a right to inherit a stable planet", G. K. Hunter said. "Without direct action, we of the elder generations, including Gen X, Baby Boomers, and the Silent Generation will be the first in human history to hand down an irreparable planet to our youth. They deserve better, and the elders at Gen Unison are doing all they can to help." As the world faces an uncertain future, every new member of the Gen Unison social media community contributes to this intergenerational solution for a more sustainable planet.About Gen UnisonGen Unison is a non-profit, online community that unites team members from all generations with projects to create stability in an increasingly polarized world. By bridging the Generation Gap, Gen Unison offers hope in the Era of Climate Change.Website: https://genunison.com Media Contact: G. K. HunterEmail: connect@ genunison.com ###SOURCE: Gen Unison PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-28 09:00:19 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 1013 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Genflow (LSE:GENF) is pleased to announce its half year results for the six-month period ended 30 June 2023.Chairman's StatementIt is with pleasure that I take this opportunity to update shareholders of Genflow Biosciences Plc ("Genflow" or the "Company") on the Company's performance during the first six months of 2023.The Company continues to maintain a secure financial position and has sufficient cash reserves until March 2025. This is inclusive of grant funding which has been approved at the time of reporting and is due to be received in the coming months. The Company continues to seek further non-dilutive research grants which management will use to expedite specific phases of planned research and development.The Company has continued to make progress with its two principal longevity programs:1. NASH (Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis) - where the Company is seeking to reverse aging fibrotic livers to normal functionality. The Company is seeking to ensure swift first-in-human trials; and2. Werner Syndrome - where the Company is seeking to improve the lives of patients suffering with this accelerated aging disease.Most notably in relation to our NASH program, the Company submitted a detailed application dossier for the Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC) of the Group's proposed medical treatment of NASH, which was presented to the Belgian regulatory authorities (FAMHP) in early June 2023. The Company was pleased with the advice received from the FAHMP to advance clinical trials of its drug, GF-1002, with patients suffering from NASH (rather than in healthy volunteers). This follows promising results from the Company's research in in-vitro human cells and in-vivo rodent studies.The Company's NASH clinical trials are scheduled to begin in approximately 18 months following dialogue and subsequent agreement with the European Medicine Agency.Other notable progress with the Group's two longevity programs includes: The Company is conducting in-vivo evaluations of its centenarian SIRT6 gene therapy in four different NASH mice models in conjunction with four leading partners in the field: The University of Liverpool, UK, The University of Rochester, US, the International Clinical Research Center (FNUSA-ICRC), Czech Republic and Physiogenex, France.These studies have been wide reaching and have included the analysation of over 700 mice, with the intention of understanding the efficacy and safety of the Company's drug candidate in animal models with NASH and has generated essential information in preparation for clinical trials in humans. Final reports are expected by the end of 2023. The Company has initiated a manufacturing program under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) conditions, which will applied in both the NASH and Werner Syndrome projects. The Company's partnership with Organips in France, has made it possible to limit the use of animal models in our research by opting for the use of artificial organs built with human cell organoids. These organoids mimic the function of a natural organ, therefore they deliver more relevant information on the potential safety and efficacy of the drug in humans. While organoids offer several advantages, they also have limitations and do not fully replicate the complexity and multicellular interactions of whole organs in the human body. The Group has expanded its intellectual property portfolio through a provisional patent application focussing on the ability to edit its SIRT6 gene. If granted, the patent will represent a significant breakthrough in the field of gene editing, with potential implications for longevity and other forms of gene therapy.Admittance to the OTCQBIn June 2023, the Company was pleased to announce that, after a successful application process, its Ordinary Shares began trading on the OTCQB Venture Market in the United States ("U.S."). The new U.S. trading avenue expands access to a broader pool of investors and enables investors in the U.S. to trade during U.S. trading hours and in U.S. dollars, thereby easing cross-border trading.The move is particularly exciting for Genflow as it not only expands the Company's reach to a larger investor base and has the potential to enhance liquidity for our shares, but also provides the Company with a platform to showcase our innovative solutions and technologies to a wider audience, raising our profile and increasing visibility within the global biotech industry, and specifically, longevity.Governance and the BoardTo enhance the Company's current objectives and priorities in the U.S., including the Company's admission to OTCQB, the Board of Directors proactively restructured both itself and the Company's Scientific Advisory Board ("SAB").In May 2023, I was pleased to be promoted to Chairperson of the Board and Vera Gorbunova PhD was promoted to Chairperson of the SAB. My experience in financing, coupled with a familiarity with the U.S. public markets, I hope will play a crucial role as the Company seeks to strengthen its links with the U.S. market and investors. We believe that Dr. Gorbunova's outstanding contributions to the field of longevity and her invaluable insights in this sector will be instrumental in guiding the Company's scientific research.Yassine Bendiabdallah remains a key member of our Board and will continue to act as a Non-Executive Director, and Dr Eric Verdin remains a key member of the SAB.The SAB also welcomed Professor Dr Sven Francque, a renowned expert in the field of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and NASH.Financial OverviewAs of 30 June 2023, the Group had cash reserves of 1,507,437 (31 December 2022: 2,356,225) which has been derived from equity fundraising consecutive with admission to the London Stock Exchange in January 2022 and the receipt of research and development grants. The Company remains debt free.Administration expenses for 30 June 2023 totalled 815,477 (30 June 2022: 696,402), which primarily consisted of research and development costs of 415,157 (30 June 2022: 97,304), legal and professional fees totalling 87,428 (30 June 2022: 267,535) and Directors' fees of 187,409 (30 June 2022: 172,851).Other Comprehensive Income was charged with a translation gain of 26,749 upon converting the Subsidiary's results for the period to GBP.FutureOn behalf of the Board, I thank you for your continued support and look forward to growing the Company's presence and continuing to build upon Genflow's position in the longevity sector both in Europe and the US. The recent recommendation from the FAHMP to commence Phase I/II clinical trials in PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-28 01:31:35 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 580 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / September 27, 2023 / Hagens Berman urges Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. (NYSE:HE) equity and bond investors who suffered substantial losses to submit your losses now.Class Period: Feb. 28, 2019 - Aug. 16, 2023Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Oct. 23, 2023Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/HE Contact An Attorney Now: HE@ hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. (NYSE: HE) Securities Fraud Class Action:The complaint alleges that, unknown to investors, (1) Hawaiian Electric's wildfire prevention and safety protocols and procedures were inadequate to meet the challenges for which they were ostensibly designed, and (2) accordingly, despite knowing the degree of risk that wildfires posed to Maui, the company's inadequate safety protocols and procedures placed Maui at a heightened risk of devastating wildfires.On Aug. 12, 2023 (after historic wildfires broke out in Maui, killing dozens of people and causing billions of dollars of damage), The Washington Post reported that "[b]efore the Maui wildfires, Hawaiian Electric did not have a plan - adopted widely in California and other states - to shut off power in certain lines in advance of dangerous winds." According to the Post "Hawaiian Electric was aware that a power shut-off was an effective strategy, documents show, but had not adopted it as part of its fire-mitigation plans, according to the company and two former power and energy officials interviewed by The Washington Post." Citing a former member of the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission, the Post reported that the decision to avoid shutting off power "is reflective of the utility's struggles to bolster its aging and vulnerable infrastructure against wildfires[.]"Then, on Aug. 16, 2023, The Wall Street Journal reported that Hawaiian Electric is in talks with restructuring firms and is exploring options to address its financial and legal challenges arising from the Maui wildfires.The next day, the WSJ reported that, while knowing of wildfire threats, Hawaiian Electric spent less than $245,000 between 2019 and 2022 on Maui wildfire-specific projects.This news drove the price of Hawaiian Electric shares and bonds sharply lower."We're focused on investors' losses and proving Hawaiian Electric misled investors about its operational safeguards necessary to comply with state safety requirements," said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation.If you invested in Hawaiian Electric and have substantial losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firm's investigation, submit your losses nowIf you'd like more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the Hawaiian Electric case and our investigation, read more Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding Hawaiian Electric 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 HE@ 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: 2023-09-28 03:30:11 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 513 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / September 27, 2023 / Hagens Berman urges UiPath Inc. (NYSE:PATH) investors who suffered $250k or more in losses to submit your losses now.Class Period: Apr. 21, 2021 - Mar. 30, 2022Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Nov. 6, 2023Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/PATH Contact An Attorney Now: PATH@ hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895UiPath Inc. (PATH) Securities Fraud Class Action:The complaint alleges that UiPath made false and misleading statements and failed to disclose that it: (1) had enacted a widespread discounting program before its April 21, 2021 IPO, temporarily boosting its revenue and annualized recurring revenue ("ARR") metrics, cannibalizing future sales, eroding margins, and increasing the risk of client churn; (2) overstated its actual total addressable market ("TAM") because many companies included in UiPath's market survey did not need the type of high-cost, high-functionality automation products offered by UiPath; (3) was losing customers to Microsoft, ServiceNow, SAP, Salesforce, IBM and other established software vendors that were building automation into their own platforms; and (4) was suffering from a loss of channel sales due to strained relationships with its partners as a result of increased competition between UiPath and its partners.The truth emerged over a series of disclosures beginning on Sept. 7, 2021, when UiPath revealed an unexpected slowdown in revenues and ARR metrics and its discounting of products before the IPO. Then, on Dec. 8, 2021, UiPath revealed its growth further stalled and disclosed its third consecutive ARR decline. Finally, on Mar. 30, 2022, UiPath revealed deeply disappointing ARR and revenue guidance that indicated declining growth trends were expected to continue.In response to each of these events, the price of UiPath shares significantly declined."We're focused on investors' losses and are investigating whether UiPath may have misled investors about known trends that would adversely affect the company's growth prospects," said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation.If you invested in UiPath and have substantial losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firm's investigation, submit your losses now If you'd like more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the UiPath case and our investigation, read more Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding UiPath 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 PATH@ 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: 2023-09-28 02:03:39 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 367 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 27, 2023 / Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized law firm, notifies investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. ("Hawaiian Electric" or the "Company") (NYSE:HE) and certain of its officers.Class Definition:This lawsuit seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Hawaiian Electric securities between February 28, 2019 and August 16, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: www.bgandg.com/he Case Details:The complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Company's business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Hawaiian Electric's wildfire prevention and safety protocols and procedures were inadequate to meet the challenges for which they were ostensibly designed; (2) accordingly, despite knowing the degree of risk that wildfires posed to Maui, the Company's inadequate safety protocols and procedures placed Maui at a heightened risk of devastating wildfires; and (3) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.What's Next?A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm's site: www.bgandg.com/he or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Law Clerk and Client Relations Manager, Yael Nathanson of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 332-239-2660. If you suffered a loss in Hawaiian Electric you have until October 23, 2023 to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide.Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.Contact:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLCPeretz Bronstein or Yael Nathanson332-239-2660 | info@ bgandg.com SOURCE: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC Abbas Ganbay Separatists in Khankendi officially announced the dissolution of the so-called "the republic of arsakh," Azernews reports. According to the information, the self-styled president of the so-called republic Samvel Shahramanyan signed a decree on dissolving the institutions until January 1. The "decree" comes into force immediately after its publication. The "decree" reads: 1. Dissolve all "state" institutions and organizations under their departmental subordination until 1 January 2024. 2. The population of Garabagh, including those outside the Republic, after the entry into force of this "Decree", shall familiarise themselves with the conditions of reintegration presented by the Republic of Azerbaijan in order to make an independent and individual decision on the possibility of staying (returning) in Garabagh. "This decree comes into force immediately after its publication," the "decree" leader of the Khankendi separatists Samvel Shahramanyan said. Samvel Shahramanyan noted that through the mediation of the command of the Russian peacekeeping contingent, an agreement was reached with Azerbaijan, according to which the free, voluntary and unhindered passage of the people in Khankendi (adjacent districts) is ensured through the Lachin-Khankendi Road. Netflix's new Korean film "Ballerina," starring Jeon Jong-seo, is set for release next week. The action-packed revenge drama directed by Lee Chung-hyun revolves around a former bodyguard who seeks to avenge the death of her close friend. It is Jeon's second film with Lee after his film "The Call" in 2020. "I tried to focus on the reason the protagonist has to fight," Jeon said at a press event in Seoul earlier this week ahead of its release on Oct. 6. "She doesn't talk much and has no outlets for her feelings, so I had to restrain my feelings to portray her." Lee, who is Jeon's boyfriend, said, "Knowing each other so well afforded a great synergy in making the film, as we already knew how to act without saying anything." The film has also been invited for screening at this year's Busan International Film Festival, which will be held in the southern port city from Oct. 4 to 13. PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-29 00:39:45 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 907 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 RADNOR, PA / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / The law firm of Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP( www.ktmc.com) informs investors that a securities class action lawsuit has been filed against Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. ("Hawaiian Electric") (NYSE:HE). The action charges Hawaiian Electric with violations of the federal securities laws, including omissions and fraudulent misrepresentations relating to the company's business, operations, and prospects. As a result of Hawaiian Electric's materially misleading statements and omissions to the public, Hawaiian Electric's investors have suffered significant losses.CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR HAWAIIAN ELECTRIC LOSSES. YOU CAN ALSO CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK OR COPY AND PASTE IN YOUR BROWSER: https://www.ktmc.com/new-cases/hawaiian-electric-industries-inc?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=he&mktm=r CANNOT VIEW THIS VIDEO? PLEASE CLICK HERELEAD PLAINTIFF DEADLINE: OCTOBER 23, 2023CLASS PERIOD: FEBRUARY 28, 2019 THROUGH AUGUST 16, 2023CONTACT AN ATTORNEY TO DISCUSS YOUR RIGHTS:Jonathan Naji, Esq. at (484) 270-1453 or via email at info@ ktmc.com Kessler Topaz is one of the world's foremost advocates in protecting the public against corporate fraud and other wrongdoing. Our securities fraud litigators are regularly recognized as leaders in the field individually and our firm is both feared and respected among the defense bar and the insurance bar. We are proud to have recovered billions of dollars for our clients and the classes of shareholders we represent.HAWAIIAN ELECTRICS'S ALLEGED MISCONDUCTThe Class Period begins on February 28, 2019 when Hawaiian Electric filed its Annual Report which stated, among other things, that the company had "appropriately responded to environmental conditions." In early August 2023, a series of severe wildfires broke out in Hawaii, predominantly on the island of Maui. The most destructive fire began in West Maui near the town of Lahaina on the morning of August 8, 2023. By that afternoon, intense winds had knocked down approximately 30 utility poles throughout Maui, resulting in at least 15 separate outages impacting more than 12,400 customers. Moreover, videos captured by local residents showed that downed power lines belonging to Hawaiian Electric appeared to have ignited at least several of the fires. Ultimately, the wind-driven fires prompted evacuations, caused widespread damage, and have killed at least 114 people, with some 850 others still missing in Lahaina.On August 12, 2023, news outlets began reporting that Hawaiian Electric lacked the proper policies and procedures to mitigate the impact of the wildfires. Specifically, it was revealed that, at the time the wildfires began, the company did not maintain a public power shutoff plan-i.e., a plan in which electricity is intentionally cut off to areas where strong wind events could cause the fires to spread. On this news, Hawaiian Electric's stock price fell $10.94 per share, or 33.76%, to close at $21.46 per share on August 14, 2023.Then, on August 16, 2023, The Wall Street Journal reported that Hawaiian Electric is meeting with firms that specialize in restructuring advisory work and exploring options for the various financial and legal challenges that the company faces as a consequence from the Maui wildfires.Finally, on August 17, 2023, The Wall Street Journal reported that Hawaiian Electric had for years been aware of the threat posed by wildfire but waited years to act. Specifically, the report stated that between 2019 and 2022, Hawaiian Electric spent less than $245,000 on wildfire-specific projects on Maui and did not seek state approval to raise utility rates to pay for broad wildfire safety improvements until 2022. Following this news, Hawaiian Electric's stock price fell $2.54 per share, or 17.43%, to close at $12.03 per share on August 17, 2023.WHAT CAN I DO?Hawaiian Electric investors may, no later than October 23, 2023, move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff for the class, through Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLPor other counsel, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP encourages Hawaiian investors who have suffered significant losses to contact the firm directly to acquire more information. The class action complaint against Hawaiian Electric, Bhangal v. Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc., et al., Case No. 23-cv-04332, is filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE CASEWHO CAN BE A LEAD PLAINTIFF?A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of all class members in directing the litigation. The lead plaintiff is usually the investor or small group of investors who have the largest financial interest and who are also adequate and typical of the proposed class of investors. The lead plaintiff selects counsel to represent the lead plaintiff and the class and these attorneys, if approved by the court, are lead or class counsel. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision of whether or not to serve as a lead plaintiff.ABOUT KESSLER TOPAZ MELTZER & CHECK, LLPKessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP prosecutes class actions in state and federal courts throughout the country and around the world. The firm has developed a global reputation for excellence and has recovered billions of dollars for victims of fraud and other corporate misconduct. All of our work is driven by a common goal: to protect investors, consumers, employees and others from fraud, abuse, misconduct and negligence by businesses and fiduciaries. The complaint in this action was not filed by Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP. For more information about Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP please visit www.ktmc.com CONTACT:Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLPJonathan Naji, Esq.280 King of Prussia RoadRadnor, PA 19087(484) 270-1453info@ ktmc.com SOURCE: Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-28 01:30:58 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 560 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / September 27, 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, submit your losses nowIf you'd like more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the RTX case and our investigation, read more 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: 2023-09-28 13:00:52 Press Information Dhirtek Business Research and Consulting Private Limited +91 7580990088 email www.dhirtekbusinessresearch.com Published by Parmeet Singh 7580990088 e-mail https://www.dhirtekbusinessresearch.com/ # 995 Words +91 7580990088Parmeet Singh7580990088 The world of the vacuum leak test system market is a complex and ever-evolving landscape, shaped by consumer demands and technological advancements. In this report, we delve into the depths of this market to provide a profound and comprehensive analysis, catering to a diverse audience that includes manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and investors. Our primary goal is to empower industry stakeholders with invaluable insights to make informed decisions in a rapidly changing environment. We aim to illuminate the current status of the vacuum leak test system market while projecting its future trends.Scope and PurposeOur report is a comprehensive guide designed to equip industry stakeholders with actionable information. It covers various aspects of the vacuum leak test system market, including market dynamics, competition, growth avenues, challenges, and regional variations. This information goes beyond mere descriptions; it is intended to help stakeholders make critical decisions that can shape their strategies and endeavors in the market.Request for Sample Report:Promising Comprehensive AnalysisTo fulfill our promises, we commit to providing a comprehensive analysis that leaves no stone unturned. We pledge to unravel the factors propelling the market's growth, dissecting shifts in consumer preferences and technological breakthroughs that are driving the demand for vacuum leak test system products. Simultaneously, we acknowledge that challenges and obstacles are part of any industry landscape, and we vow to illuminate these hurdles, be it economic uncertainties or the intense competition that often characterizes such markets.Some of the major companies in the Vacuum Leak Test System market are as follows: Cincinnati, Cincinnatitest, Dvaci, Erweka, Hally Instruments, Intertech, LACO Technologies, Labthink, Pfeiffer-vacuum, Sanatron, Serv-I-Quip, TM Electronics, UlvacGuiding the Path ForwardOur report extends an invitation to its readers to explore its contents and sets the stage for uncovering the competitive landscape. It introduces the major players in the vacuum leak test system market and their strategies, offering insights into what makes them thrive. This insight-rich analysis is meant to guide others on their path forward whether it's to navigate the competition more effectively or to find inspiration in successful strategies.Anticipation of InsightsRecognizing that the market is not monolithic but rather a composition of various segments, the report pledges to provide a nuanced understanding of these segments. It promises to detail their sizes, potential growth trajectories, and key trends. This targeted knowledge assists stakeholders in carving out specialized strategies and ensuring optimal resource allocation.Balancing Forces and Strategic ImplicationsBy elucidating both the driving forces and potential obstacles, the report paints a holistic picture of the market dynamics. It enables industry stakeholders to navigate the competitive landscape with a deeper understanding of the forces at play. Manufacturers can align their innovation efforts with consumer preferences and regulatory trends, thereby enhancing their market position. Investors and decision-makers can be better prepared to address economic uncertainties and supply chain vulnerabilities. Overall, this section equips readers with insights to make strategic decisions that account for both growth opportunities and challenges in the vacuum leak test system market.Exploring the Competitive LandscapeThe section dedicated to the competitive landscape of the vacuum leak test system market offers an intricate exploration of the market's key players, their strategies, and their impact on the industry. This segment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the market's dynamics, the role of major companies, and the strategies they employ to thrive.Segment CharacteristicsThe report initiates the analysis by outlining the unique characteristics that define each segment. Whether these segments are categorized based on product types, customer demographics, use cases, or other distinguishing factors, the report provides a clear picture of how these segments are defined and differentiated.Market SizeUnderstanding the size of each market segment is crucial for gauging its significance within the overall market landscape. The report likely provides quantitative data to illustrate the market share and contribution of "Type" and "Application" segments to the entire vacuum leak test system market. This information helps stakeholders appreciate the relative importance of each segment.Growth PotentialBeyond current market size, the report delves into the growth potential of these segments. It explores factors such as emerging trends, consumer behaviors, technological advancements, and regulatory influences that could drive the future expansion of these segments. This forward-looking perspective aids stakeholders in identifying where the market's growth opportunities lie.Key TrendsThe analysis likely captures the key trends specific to each segment. Whether it's changing consumer preferences, evolving technology adoption, or shifting regulatory landscapes, the report provides insights into the forces shaping the behavior of "Type" and " Application." These trends inform stakeholders about the directions these segments might take in the coming years.Strategic InsightsThe segment analysis extends beyond descriptive data to offer strategic insights. By understanding the characteristics, potential, and trends of "Type" and "Application," industry participants can make informed decisions. Manufacturers can tailor their product development strategies to meet the demands of these segments, and marketers can create targeted campaigns to reach specific customer groups.Market Segmentation:Type: Ultrasonic Leak Detector, Helium Leak DetectorApplication: Spaceflight, Agriculture, Automobile, Drinks, Biofuels, Building MaterialExploring Regional DynamicsThe section dedicated to the regional analysis of the vacuum leak test system market provides a comprehensive exploration of how the market fares across different geographical areas. This analysis recognizes that markets are not homogenous and that regional variations can significantly impact market dynamics. The report delves into the intricacies of each region North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa to provide stakeholders with valuable insights.Closing ThoughtsIn essence, the conclusion encapsulates the report's journey. It emphasizes the report's role as a strategic tool, a navigator, and a decision-making companion in the complex world of the vacuum leak test system market. This report is more than just a document; it is a valuable resource that empowers industry stakeholders to thrive in a dynamic and ever-evolving market environment. PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-28 03:22:02 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 881 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 BEVERLY HILLS, CA / ACCESSWIRE / September 26, 2023 / In a world where the intersection of aesthetics and empowerment takes center stage, Hadeed Plastic Surgery renowned plastic surgery practice, is revolutionizing the industry. 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The surgeon's commitment to staying at the forefront of advancements in the field sets Hadeed Plastic Surgery apart from the rest.Personalized Care, Every Step of the WayWhat truly sets Hadeed Plastic Surgery apart is its unwavering dedication to personalized service. This is not a one-size-fits-all practice; rather, each patient is treated as a unique individual with distinct needs and desires. The team is not just responsive; they are empathetic, compassionate, and deeply committed to ensuring every patient's journey is tailored to their specific goals and comfort. This boutique-style approach fosters a supportive environment where individuals feel valued and heard, rather than just another case.Empowering Your Best Self"We pride ourselves on being able to give our patients the results they are looking for," says this revolutionary practice's founder, Dr. Josef Hadeed. "Our mission is to empower people to look and feel their best while providing industry-leading care." Dr. Josef Hadeed, the visionary behind the innovative practice, is committed to empowering individuals to look and feel their absolute best. With nearly a decade of excellence in plastic surgery, Dr. Hadeed combines the latest surgical and non-surgical cosmetic advancements with a compassionate approach that goes beyond physical changes.Every consultation at Hadeed Plastic Surgery is an opportunity to explore personal thoughts and concerns. Dr. Hadeed and his team listen, understand, and empathize with each patient's unique journey, ensuring the right procedure is chosen and patients feel supported throughout their transformation.For those considering their own journey to self-enhancement, Dr. Hadeed invites them to a private consultation where they can experience the warmth of the office, interact with the knowledgeable staff, and establish trust with Dr. Hadeed himself.Customized Services For Personalized TransformationsHadeed Plastic Surgery offers a comprehensive range of services designed to meet diverse needs and preferences, ensuring each client's unique journey towards their personal transformation. Their specialized procedures include:Liposuction - Unlocking Your Ideal ContoursIdeal for individuals aged 20 to 55, liposuction sculpts the body for a more contoured appearance. This transformative treatment targets stubborn fat deposits, delivering precision results tailored to each patient's body and aesthetic goals.Breast Augmentation - Enhancing Beauty and SpiritTailored for women in their 20s to 40s, breast augmentation enhances natural beauty and self-confidence. This personalized service allows women to achieve their desired breast size and shape while maintaining harmony with their overall physique.Gynecomastia - Restoring ConfidenceDesigned for men in their 20s and 40s, gynecomastia addresses excess breast tissue concerns. This transformative procedure boosts self-esteem by sculpting a masculine chest contour that aligns with each patient's unique physique, restoring both appearance and self-assuredness.At Hadeed Plastic Surgery the focus is on individuals, understanding their goals, concerns, and expectations, and crafting personalized treatment plans that ensure a safe, effective, and empowering transformation.A Practice for AllHadeed Plastic Surgery welcomes both males and females between the ages of 25 and 60. Their focus extends to individuals interested in plastic and cosmetic surgery, as well as those who appreciate fashion, beauty, and luxury brands. Marital status is not a limiting factor; the practice is inclusive and accommodating to all, including those who have completed their child-bearing journey and are seeking a "mommy makeover" or a "daddy do-over." Quality, Safety, and PersonalizationThis practice serves a diverse clientele, from young professionals to seasoned individuals, and it's not just about age or marital status- it's about enhancing your best self. With incomes at or above the local/national median, their clients value quality, safety, and a personalized approach to cosmetic surgery.For More InformationFor more information on Hadeed Plastic Surgery and their personalized services, please visit their website at https://www.josefhadeedmd.com/ About Hadeed Plastic SurgeryHe is a leading plastic surgery practice in Beverly Hills, California with a satellite office in Miami, FL. With a focus on personalized care, safety, and exceptional results, the practice has gained recognition for its commitment to empowering individuals through aesthetic transformations. Led by a double board-certified surgeon, Hadeed Plastic Surgery offers a range of procedures, including liposuction, breast augmentation, and gynecomastia, tailored to meet the unique needs and desires of each patient.Business Name: Hadeed Plastic SurgeryWebsite: https://www.josefhadeedmd.com/Phone Number: 3109702940Email: info@ josefhadeedmd.com SOURCE: Hadeed Plastic Surgery Clutching a shovel, Yunusa Umar, 30, joins a group of young men at the ever-expanding bank of Tumburawa river in Tassa, a village in Dawakin Kudu Local Government Area (LGA) of Kano State. There, they collect sand extracted from the river into waiting tipper trucks. I earn between N5,000 and N10,000 or more daily, he says of his daily job with a smile. When we started working here, there were only wheelbarrows and small trucks, his colleague, Bashir Ahmad, chips in. Now, bigger tipper trucks are coming hereMore than 100 trucks load sand here every day. More than 2,500 labourers work at this site, according to Aliyu Ismail, the chairman of the group of labourers. We have been working here for like 17 to 18 years. When we started, we used buckets and carts to fetch sand. We fetched a maximum of two small trucks daily, he says. Agrarian community folding to sand mining A few miles from the river bank, Yazidu Labaran, 35, stands on his farm, his gaze fixed on the drivers of his biggest fear. Mr Labaran says the activities of Mr Umar and his cohorts will eventually consume his farmlands and there is nothing he can do about it. But his nightmare is already Rabiu Audus reality. Some years ago, Mr Audu, now 50, watched helplessly as sand mining expanded the river bank until it eroded his three-acre farmland in Rukku, Kura LGA of Kano State. In a few months, they wll reach my own farm. Like three to four months, Mr Labaran says. More than 100 farmers in the area have lost their farmland to this problem, Abdulwahab Tsoho, the Secretary of the Association of Tassa Rice Farmers Cooperative Union, says. Across three local government areas of Madobi, Kura and Dawakin Kudu LGAs, PREMIUM TIMES interviewed at least a dozen farmers who lost their farms to expanding riverbanks. A silent environmental problem The activities of sand miners along the Tumburawa river that cuts through several local government areas in Kano State, have been a source of concern for farmers in the communities and environmentalists who pay attention to the development. Sand mining is a silent global environmental problem that is largely ungoverned. Annually, 50 billion tonnes of sand is mined across the world, making it the most extracted material in volume and the second most used resource after water, according to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). While the scale at which sand is being mined in Nigeria is largely undocumented, increasing population and urbanisation are driving the demands for construction sand that the Tumburawa river possesses. Without regulations, the extraction is wreaking havoc; escalating the risk of erosion, undermining protection against storm surges and impacting biodiversity. It has also affected water supply, food production and fisheries, all of which pose a threat to the livelihood of people in the affected areas and beyond. In the mid-2010s, excavation of sand threatened the Tumburawa bridge after its foundation was affected. An emergency repair in 2017 saved it from collapse. During a visit to the state the following year, the then Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, appealed to the Kano State authorities to stop sand mining along the river. But it continued unrestrained, expanding river banks and eroding farmlands. Sand mining in Kano There are at least 96 valid sand mining titles in Kano State, according to documents obtained from the Mining Cadastre Office (MCO) through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. Of these, 51 were granted permission to operate in the three LGAs where this investigation was conducted: Madobi, Kura and Dawakin Kudu. From 2018, when more than 90 per cent of these licences were granted, communities in the areas saw a surge in the number of sand excavators planted in the river and the activities of sand miners. In 2021, a five-member team of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), found over 30 dredging equipment in the river during an investigation that followed a complaint by farmers. A copy of the report, obtained by PREMIUM TIMES, also revealed that up to 500 tipper trucks haul excavated sand out of the site daily. A review of the satellite imagery of Tassa village in Dawakin Kudu LGA, a major sand mining hub, revealed a rapid expansion of the river banks and the disappearance of farmlands close to the river. The satellite images of the past five years also showed how the number of sand dredges in the river multiplied from only one machine visible in the satellite images in 2015 to six in 2018 and to 30 in 2021. When small-scale sand mining began at the river more than a decade ago, it was not much of a concern until it started wreaking havoc, residents say. If you know this river before now, it was as if you could run and jump to the other end of it, says Abdulwahab Tsoho, the secretary of the Association of Tassa Rice Farmers Cooperative Union. But that is not the case anymore. If we are to count all those who lost their farms as a result of this work (sand mining), it would be at least 100 farmers. Some even had to sell their farms as they had no choice. Others didnt even sell it, yet the farm fell to sand mining. Realising they could not stop the sand mining activities, some of the farmers sold their farmlands to the sand miners for paltry sums. Those who refused to sell their farms said the activities of sand miners eroded them anyway. For instance, Nuhu Bala, 24, and his siblings did not sell their farmland but it was eroded eventually. At first, they were avoiding our own part of the land. But people told us that they would still encroach on it whether we sold it or not. And that was what happened, Mr Bala says. Shuaibu Haruna, 35, says he was paid N500,000 for his 10 hectares of land, an amount he says he took because they would still encroach even if he decided to reject the money. Government reports indict sand miners Fed up with the increasing loss of their only source of livelihood to the activities of sand miners, farmers from the three LGAs affected Kura, Madobi and Dawakin Kudu rallied together to take action. The farmers, under the Association of Tassa Rice Farmers Cooperative Union, wrote multiple petitions to the authorities, seeking intervention. According to documents seen by this newspaper, at least 68 farmers signed the petition written to the Kano State Public Complaint and Anti-Corruption Commission, the Kano State Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the River Basin Development Authority. Their efforts looked promising at first, as the Kano State Public Complaint and Anti-Corruption Commission filed a suit against two mining companies; Yammawa and Sons Nigeria Limited with the Small Scale Mining License (SSML) 32117 and Sani Musa Tamburawa with the SSML 284990. The petition also prompted an investigation by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), which revealed that the land has been heavily degraded. The public complaint received was very genuine, as verified by the NESREA team and the magnitude of environmental degradation occasioned by the sand mining activities was monumental, a preliminary report by NESREA concluded. Another report by the Kano State Ministry of Environment confirmed that the sand mining activities had continuously destroyed farmlands including trees and existing crops. It added that the irrigation activities which the people depended on as their main source of income had reduced to the minimum due to the erosion menace and the lack of adequate irrigation water. In yet another report, the Hadejia-Jamaare River Basin Development Authority noted that the sand mining had tampered with the river embankments and eroded a large part of it. The water table of the area became apparently low due to the mining activities hence reducing the irrigation activity and the ecosystem as a whole, it said. The federal agency thus suggested that the authorities concerned stop the said mining activities, noting its damaging effects on the welfare of the communities around the areas. ALSO READ: Kano communities threaten violence over sand mining But for unknown reasons, the Kano Anti-Corruption Commission withdrew the case against the sand miners, the farmers said. Efforts to get more information on this did not yield results. The spokesperson of the commission, Kabir Abba, promised to furnish PREMIUM TIMES with details of the case including documents, but never did despite multiple reminders. What followed the suits withdrawal was multiple lawsuits by the sand miners against the farmers association and its leaders: Mr Tsoho and Habibullahi Muhammad, the spokesperson for the farmers association. The sand miners accused them of obstructing their work as they had lawfully obtained operation licences. In separate suits, Hussaini Sulaiman and Wasilu Muhammad, who worked with Yammawa and Sons Limited and Sani Musa, respectively, filed another suit at the Kano State High Court against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the farmers association. This followed an invitation served to the duo by the EFCC which received petitions from the farmers. In the suit, both individuals asked the court to declare unconstitutional, the invitation and threat against them by the EFCC arising from the farmers petition. They also asked for N1 million as damages. The least regulated sector Sand mining activities, despite its effect on agriculture and rural livelihood, have continued along the Tumburawa river because of the loose regulations around sand mining, according to Haruna Manu, an environmental researcher and doctoral student at the Bayero University Kano. He said that the government agency saddled with the responsibility of enforcing environmental regulations, National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), has no specific regulations on sand mining and burrow pit operation. Sand mining is the least regulated sector in this country, says Mr Manu, who is also the Executive Director of the Kano-based Savannah Environmental Initiative. We have regulations on waste management, construction, on chemicals and water but theres no regulation on sand mining After water, sand is the most consumed resource globally. But unfortunately, it is the least regulated and the least controlled. You will see a situation where the government issues a licence to someone. But there are no specifications about the depth. I have seen countries where they put a limit to the area you can mine at a point in time. But here in Nigeria, theres no such standard. That is the major challenge we have. NESREA has about 35 regulations on the environment. But theres none on sand mining or borrow pit operation. As sand mining continues, farmers count losses Farmers across the three local government areas said the loss of their farmlands has thrown them into untold hardship. Some migrated to smaller farms they owned, while others now work as farmhands on other peoples farms. They also recalled the estimated annual yield on their lost farms. On his five acres of farmland, Haruna Abdul, 40, says he harvested N400,000 worth of sugarcane and 20 bags of maize annually. I am now a labourer working on other peoples farms, he says. On his fathers farm, Abdullahi Rabiu says they harvested an average of N2 million worth of sugar cane and 80 to 100 bags of maize, every year. All we have left now is our other farm where we grow millet. Before our farm close to the river bank was eroded, our maize lasted us till another farming season, he says. Shuaibu Harunas nowlost farmland used to fetch him between 500,000 to 800,000 from the sale of produce including maize, onions and sugarcane. Well meet in heaven Although unaffected at the time, Musa Sani says he would leave the sand miners to God should they finally extend their activities to his farmland an inheritance from his father. They have not encroached on my farm, but if they continue, they will finally reach my side. So I am praying to God that before they reach my own side, there should be a solution, he says. I am not going to sell it and if they encroach on it, we will meet in heaven. ***This report is produced with support from the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) through its Natural Resources and Extractives Programme (NAREP) fellowship Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Tobi Bakre returns to TV screens on 8 October in Africa Magics new crime limited drama series Slum King. Hell be joined by superstar co-stars Gideon Okeke, Olarotimi Fakunle, Idia Aisien, Teniola Aladese, Jidekene Achufusi, Elvina Ibru, and more. The story follows a young boy who witnesses his familys murder after he forgets to lock their door overnight. He grows with guilt and anger and is determined to be the slum king and take revenge. You can already tell that the series will be fantastic for its entire nine-week duration. Produced by Chinenye Nworah (Shanty Town) and directed by Dimeji Ajibola (Wura), the cast includes AMVCA Trailblazer winner Bolaji Ogunmola and Sonia Irabor. Plot The producers describe Slum King as an intriguing story of Edafe Majemijesu Umukoro, who witnessed the massacre of his family by armed robbers at age 11 robbers who had entered his family home because he, unfortunately, forgot to lock the front door. Sad events force ambition on an indifferent Edafe, causing him to detest his lowly status and develop an appetite for power. Trapped in the cycle of guilt and trauma, Slum King takes us on Edafes journey from a disturbed tout in the slums to become MAJE, the charismatic king of the slums. READ ALSO: Speaking about the series, Executive Head of Content and West Africa Channels, MultiChoice Nigeria, Busola Tejumola, said Slum King is a story of redemption, and many of our viewers will find that they relate with the characters and feel similar emotions as they get to know them. In celebration of Africa Magic at 20, we present our viewers with a gift of the tiering down of our Africa Magic Showcase channel to the DStv Compact package and GOtv Supa+ from the 1st of October, allowing everyone to watch the Slum King. We know theyll be engrossed and wait each week with bated breath for new episodes. Airtime After Slum King launches on 8 October, it will air weekly every Sunday at 8 p.m. on Africa Magic Showcase. The series will follow Majes story (played by Tobi Bakre) and his journey to successfully claim his king of the slums crown and title. Weekly, the show will unveil new secrets about Maje, his neighbourhood and the various in-fighting for dominance. Chichi Nworah, the series producer, said the show would spotlight some of the most significant issues in major slums in many metropolitan cities: the traumas that lead people to become who they are in the future and crazy love triangles. Im sure that viewers are going to have a great time watching the show as the cast, from Tobi, Sonia, Idia, and Olarotimi to Gideon, Jidekene, Marykeyz, Bolaji, and everyone else, gave brilliant performances. I hope everyone enjoys watching it as much as we enjoyed making it, and maybe even pick a few life lessons. The show is unique and exciting because viewers will find it hard to decipher each characters next step. The TV series premieres on October 8, 2023, at 8 p.m., exclusively on Africa Magic Showcase (DStv ch. 151 and GOtv Supa+ ch. 12). Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Supreme Court on Thursday fixed 3 October for judgement in a suit filed by Smart Adeyemi challenging the conduct of the 14 April primary election of the All Progressives congress (APC) for Kogi governorship election. John Okoro, leading a panel of justices of the court, fixed the date after taking arguments from parties to the case. Mr Adeyemi is challenging the validity of the primary election which produced Ahmed Ododo as APCs flagbearer for the 11 November governorship election. The grouse of the appellant is that the provisions of Electoral Act 2022 and the guidelines of the APC were compromised during the primary election. Specifically, Mr Adeyemi who recently represented Kogi West senatorial district in the Senate, claimed that the result brought out by APC in support of Mr Ododo was fraudulent and invalid on the grounds that the primary election was conducted in only 11 out of 239 wards in the state. READ ALSO: The Federal High Court in Abuja and the Abuja division of the Court of Appeal had dismissed his suit and subsequent appeals on the ground that the allegations of malpractices were not proven as required by law, promoting him to go to Supreme Court. Mr Adeyemis lawyer, Musibawu Adedtunmbi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), on Wednesday, prayed the Supreme Court to grant his clients prayers. While adopting his brief of argument, the lawyer maintained that the primary election of 14 April was conducted in gross violation of section 84 of the Electoral Act, 2022. Election did not hold in 228 wards and the claim was supported by INECs field officers in their report on the primary election, the lawyer said. However, the APC counsel, AbdulWahab Mohammed, prayed the court to dismiss Mr Adeyemis appeal on the ground that it is against the concurrent findings of fact by the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal. On its part, the INEC counsel, Adeyemi Adeniyi, also a SAN, after adopting his briefs, also similarly argued that the appeal was grossly incompetent and that the decision of the two lower courts should be affirmed because there was no allegation of perversion of justice in their decisions. Similarly the third respondent, Mr Ododo, through his counsel, Francis Ekpa, asked the Supreme Court to dismiss the appeal on the ground that it has become academic, as the 180 days period within which APC can conduct another primary election for nomination of candidate has since lapsed. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, has cautioned labour unions against the indefinite strike they plan to embark on to protest the hardships associated with petrol subsidy removal. The labour unions comprising the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) had, on Tuesday, declared their plan to embark on the indefinite nationwide strike on 3 October. The AGF, who doubles as the Minister of Justice, issued the warning on behalf of the federal government against the strike in a letter he addressed to the unions lawyer, Femi Falana. In the letter dated 26 September but made public on Thursday by Modupe Ogundoro, director of press at the Federal Ministry of Justice, the minister reminded the labour unions of a subsisting court order issued in a pending suit at the industrial court concerning the dispute. Mr Fagbemi said the proposed strike is in clear violation of the pending interim injunctive order granted on 5 June 2023, restraining both Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress from embarking on any industrial action. The AGF highlighted the developments leading to the latest threat by the labour unions to go on a nationwide strike. He referenced the exchange of correspondence between his ministry and Mr Falanas law firm before and after the nationwide action/protest declared by the NLC on 2 August 2023. Whilst your clients had maintained that the nationwide protest by NLC is in furtherance of its constitutional right to embark on protests, the Ministry has repeatedly advised on the need to advise your clients to refrain from resorting to self-help and taking actions capable of undermining subsisting orders of a court of competent jurisdiction, Mr Fagbemi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), wrote. The labour unions had been battling with the federal government since President Bola Tinubu announced the removal of the petrol subsidy at his inauguration on 29 May. Strike threats, court orders Since then, the unions have issued a series of threats to embark on strike action. A judge of the National Industrial Court in Abuja, Olufunke Anuwe, at the instance of the Federal Ministry of Justice, issued an order on 5 June, two days before the NLC and the TUC planned to embark on a nationwide strike on 7 June. The judge reaffirmed the order on 19 June, further restraining the labour unions from going on strike. In August, the federal government filed a contempt suit at the National Industrial Court in Abuja after a protest the union leaders organised to further press the government to address the negative impacts of the fuel subsidy removal. The government said the protest was in violation of the 5 June order of the court. But the justice ministry later withdrew the contempt suit, citing the intervention of President Tinubu to give room for further negotiation with the union leaders. But negotiations have failed to yield the desired results, prompting the unions to declare on Tuesday another plan to embark on strike. The subsidy removal has triggered an astronomical increase in petrol pump prices with the attendant rising cost of living in the country. Reminder of contempt suit But Mr Fagbemi, in his communication to the unions lawyer, urged them to shelve the planned strike to afford parties more room for further mutual engagements, for a holistic and sustainable resolution of all outstanding issues on this matter in the overall national interest. He urged Mr Falana, also a SAN, to advise the labour unions on the need to protect the integrity of courts and observe the sanctity of court orders. He recalled how his ministry had instituted contempt proceedings against the labour leaders, but had to terminate the action upon the intervention of the President and National Assembly, coupled with the decision of the labour unions to discontinue their action/protest. This was advisedly done to enable the government and labour union to engage in further negotiations without any form of encumbrances, he wrote. READ ALSO: He said from a review of the contents of the above communique and available media reports, the proposed strike action is premised principally in furtherance of issues connected with the removal of fuel subsidy, hike in fuel price and consequential matters of making provisions for palliatives and workers welfare. He added: We wish to reiterate that a court order, regardless of the opinion of any party on it, remains binding and enforceable until set aside. It is the expectation of the public that the labour unions would lead in obedience and observance of court orders and not in its breach. It is therefore the earnest expectation of this Office that your distinguished law firm will advise the labour unions on the need to protect the integrity of courts and observe the sanctity of court orders. He urged Mr Falana to impress upon the organised labour unions to note the fact that their proposed strike action is in gross breach of the subsisting court order, as well as the appropriateness of addressing their grievances/demands within the ambit of the law. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Last week, within the space of five days three senior medical doctors at Alimosho General Hospital (ALGH), Igando, in Lagos, died under what some of their colleagues described as demeaning circumstances. The three medical practitioners, identified simply as Messers Otukoya, Aluko and Shuaib, were principal medical officers at the Lagos State-owned health facility. The development, which has thrown their colleagues under the umbrella of the Lagos State chapter of the Medical Guild and the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) into mourning, has been blamed on the negative impacts of the exodus of Nigerian healthcare workers abroad. The Medical Guild in a statement issued over the development said the circumstances leading to the demise of the doctors might have been related to chronic illnesses believed to be aggravated by stress. Association issues ultimatum In its reaction to the development, the Medical Guild declared a three-day mourning period across the Lagos State Health System in a statement Monday signed by the Chairman and Secretary, Saeid Ahmad, and Moruf Awodun, respectively. The association also issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to convene a meaningful engagement with the Medical Guild on all welfare matters affecting doctors in Lagos State, decrying the impact of brain drain in the health sector. The group also noted in the statement that the general welfare and well-being of doctors and other health workers in the state has for long been a subject of relentless discussions. The devastating phenomenon of brain drain, and its attendant work overload for the doctors remaining onshore, and the negative consequences of severe manpower shortage has been repeatedly emphasised, the statement reads in parts. The Medical Guild, only 10 days ago forwarded a concise but wide-covering Position Paper to Mr Governor, centred on the need to Declare a State of Emergency in the Health sector and activate immediate palliative, medium and long-term welfare incentives for the doctors and health workers in the state. Association orders skeletal services Meanwhile, as part of its resolutions on the development, the association directed its members to embark on a three-day mourning period, even as it instructed the colleagues of the late doctors at Alimosho General Hospital (ALGH) where they had practised till their death to embark on skeletal services. The association said, All elective procedures are to be rescheduled within this period. Only emergencies are expected to be attended to. This is in deference to the deep psychological state surviving colleagues in that centre must be going through, and as a mark of respect for these fallen heroes, it noted. Some patients who were unaware of the development and visited the hospital were asked to return home. Meanwhile, when PREMIUM TIMES contacted the Lagos State Ministry of Health for comment, its spokesman, Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, said the government has since been on the matter. Doctors to meet with government In a telephone interview with PREMIUM TIMES Wednesday, the Chairman of the Medical Guild, Mr Ahmad, confirmed that the state government had acknowledged the 48-hour ultimatum issued by the body to address the poor welfare situation of healthcare workers in the state. There is no strike. We have only given an ultimatum for the commencement of meaningful engagement, and we have received an official invitation to meet with the government this week, Mr Ahmad said. It is that meeting that will determine our next action as we have our congress coming up this Saturday. Brain Drain in Nigeria Nigerias health sector is currently grappling with a severe shortage of skilled personnel, resulting from the mass departure of healthcare professionals. A 2022 UK immigration report showed that 13,609 Nigerian healthcare workers (including doctors) were granted working visas in the past year, making the country second only to the 42,966 from India. As of October 2022, the Nigeria Medical Association disclosed that only 24,000 licensed medical doctors were available in the country, lamenting that only one doctor is available to treat 30,000 patients in some southern states, while in the North, it is one doctor to 45,000 patients. Recently, at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, a medical doctor identified as Michael Umoh died under a circumstance that was blamed on stress by his colleagues. There have been consistent reports of adverse effects of brain drain across the Nigeria health sector. Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu recently announced some palliatives within the health sector, including subsidised deliveries, which have placed a heavier burden on the workers. Mr Sanwo-olu explained that the governments plan is to ameliorate the sufferings of pregnant women in the state by offering free antenatal and delivery services as a means to cushion the impact of the fuel subsidy removal. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The federal government has declared Monday 2 October as a public holiday in commemoration of the nations 63rd independence celebration. This is contained in a statement by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Oluwatoyin Akinlade, on Thursday in Abuja. According to her, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the declaration on behalf of the federal government, congratulated all Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora. Mr Tunj-Ojo assured Nigerians of the governments continued commitment to tackling challenges facing the country. It is today a known fact that difficult socio-economic and security challenges are global, and Nigeria is not isolated. The minister however said that the government was really making efforts to confront these varied and numerous challenges with all the might available until respite comes. Mr Tunji-Ojo reiterated that the eminent position of Nigeria in the comity of nations and the greatness ahead of the country was achievable if all citizens worked together in unity. He said Nigerians warm welcoming spirit and love as well as unbounded human capital and the richness of her land makes Nigeria unarguably the leading black nation in the world. While wishing the citizens a memorable independence celebration, the minister recalled that Nigerias founding fathers, in spite of the differences in faith, tribe, and tongue, came together for Nigerias freedom which all citizens enjoy today. The minister assured that the present administration through the Renew Hope agenda would ensure a better Nigeria for all citizens, as a befitting tribute to the nations heroes. NAN reports that a lecture will be held on Friday at the National Mosque Conference Centre at 10:00 a.m., followed by Jumaat Prayer at the National Mosque at 1:00 p.m. President Bola Tinubu is also expected to address the nation on Sunday at 7:00 a.m. Inter-Denominational Church Service on Sunday, 1 October at the National Christian Centre will be held at 10:00 a.m. There will also be a Military Parade on 2 October at the Presidential Villa, at 9:00 a.m. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The United States will be admitting Israel into its Visa Waiver Program, or VWP, which will allow the entry of Israeli citizens into the country without a visa for up to 90 days, beginning Nov. 30. The U.S.-Israel relationship has been tested recently by Washington's vocal opposition to Israel's judiciary overhaul plan and its policy toward Palestinians. This decision, however, is seen as a step forward for the Biden administration's relations with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, according to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. "The designation of Israel into the Visa Waiver Program is an important recognition of our shared security interests and the close cooperation between our two countries," Mayorkas said in a statement. "This designation, which represents over a decade of work and coordination between the United States and Israel, will enhance our two nations' collaboration on counterterrorism, law enforcement, and our other common priorities. Israels entry into the Visa Waiver Program, and the stringent requirements it entails, will make both of our nations more secure." The decision also allows U.S. travelers to enter Israel for 90 days without first obtaining a visa. To be admitted into the VWP, the United States requires countries to meet requirements on issues such as counterterrorism, law enforcement, immigration enforcement, document security and border management. Countries must also treat all U.S. travelers equally, regardless of other passports they hold. This means U.S. citizens who also hold Palestinian passports would need to be granted free passage at Ben Gurion Airport. "This important achievement will enhance freedom of movement for U.S. citizens, including those living in the Palestinian Territories or traveling to and from them," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in the joint statement with Mayorkas. Troops of Operation Delta Safe, have uncovered and destroyed 34 illegal refining sites and apprehended 59 suspected oil thieves, among other criminal elements in two weeks. Director of Defence Media Operations, Military headquarters, Edward Buba, a major general, made this known while briefing journalists on Thursday in Abuja. Mr Buba said the troops also destroyed 38 dugout pits, 21 boats, 57 storage tanks, 10 vehicles, three tapping hoses, four drum receivers, 89 cooking ovens, six pumping machines and three outboard engines. He said the troops also recovered 696,250 litres of stolen crude oil, 54,400 litres of illegally refined AGO and 1,200 litres of PMS, two motorcycles, four weapons and 78 assorted ammunition. READ ALSO: He said the troops had maintained momentum against crude oil theft in Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers and other states in the Niger Delta region and denied criminals freedom of action. In the South-east, Mr Buba said troops of operation UDO KA conducted raid operations on terrorists hideouts, eliminated and arrested suspects in Abia, Enugu, Imo and Anambra states during the period. He said the troops killed 11 IPOB/ESN terrorists, arrested 20 and rescued 15 kidnapped hostages as well as recovery of several calibres of arms and ammunition. He added that the air component of Operation UDO KA also bombed targeted terrorists areas with rockets and cannons, neutralising several of them and destroying their structures. According to him, all recovered items, arrested suspects and rescued hostages, have been handed over to relevant authorities for further action. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has remonstrated with former President Olusegun Obasanjo over the incident in Iseyin, Oyo State on 15 September where he publicly rebuked traditional rulers, ordering them to stand and sit down. The incident had attracted widespread angry reactions among the Yoruba with many accusing the former president of disrespecting the traditional institution and culture of the people. Afenifere spoke for the first time on the issue on Wednesday through a communique issued at the end of its monthly meeting held at the residence of its retired leader, Reuben Fasoranti, in Akure, Ondo State. The organisation condemned Mr Obasanjos conduct and demanded an apology from him to the traditional rulers. This is despite Mr Obasanjo explaining in an exclusive report by PREMIUM TIMES that he had rebuked the Obas for showing disrespect to the state governor, Seyi Makinde, at the event. In the communique made available to journalists by its spokesperson, Jare Ajayi, Afenifere expressed its consternation on the matter. The communique read in part, Afenifere was taken aback by the avoidable and unwarranted incident that took place at Iseyin, Oyo State on Friday, September 15, 2023, where former President Olusegun Obasanjo commanded royal fathers at the gathering to stand up (and after complying), they were ordered to sit down. It was as though a military commander was giving orders to his troops. We, Yoruba, respect our traditional institutions, the arrowhead of which is our traditional rulers, who, traditionally and spiritually, have acquired the status of deities. Its not surprising that they are referred to as Igbakeji Orisa! (second in command to the gods). In view of the attempt to ridicule the respected Obaship institution in Yorubaland, Afenifere hereby demands an unreserved public apology to Obas from former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Our tradition describes who we are. As such, no effort must be spared to prevent the rubishing of our noble tradition. In that wise, its hereby recommended that royal fathers are spared the trouble to stand up at public functions as obtained in the United Kingdom, among others. The group also called on the federal government and security agencies to be more decisive and proactive in the fight against insecurity in the country. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), on Thursday, said it has generated N343 billion in revenue between July and August 2023. The acting Comptroller-General of the NCS, Bashir Adeniyi, disclosed this on Thursday while speaking to journalists at a press conference to mark his first 100 days in office. On 19 June, President Bola Tinubu appointed Mr Adeniyi as acting CG of the NCS. Decorating Mr Adeniyi at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Vice President Kashim Shettima described his appointment as a morale booster for officers in the service. Speaking on Thursday, Mr Adeniyi said one of his early achievements has been a remarkable boost in monthly revenue collection. Weve witnessed a substantial increase, with an average monthly collection of N202 billion in the first half of the year that concluded in June, surging to an impressive N343 billion in the past two months (July and August). This outstanding growth amounts to a remarkable 70.13 per cent increase in revenue collection. Im delighted to announce that weve consistently exceeded the monthly target collection of 307 billion Naira, marking a remarkable departure from previous performances, Mr Adeniyi said. He explained that the ongoing revenue recovery review activities have contributed an additional N8 billion during this period, underlining his commitment to revenue generation. Subject to unforeseen circumstances, he said, the services aim is to sustain and even expand this momentum until the end of the year. This commitment is driven by our resolve to minimise the deviation from the target, especially in light of the substantial shortfalls recorded during the first half of the year, he said. Battle against smuggling He noted that in the ongoing battle against smuggling, the NCS had achieved impressive results over the past eight months. With a total of 1,763 seizures, valuing a substantial N11.9 billion in duty paid value, we have successfully intercepted various contraband items, including arms, ammunition, illicit drugs, substandard pharmaceuticals, and other prohibited goods that pose grave risks to our citizens. These seizures, Mr Adeniyi said, accompanied by the apprehension of 62 suspects undergoing legal procedures, underscore the commitment to tackling smuggling and safeguarding the communities. READ ALSO: Notably, he said a significant surge in impactful seizures, especially involving arms, ammunition, and drugs, has occurred in the past two months, reinforcing its resolve to combat these illegal activities. We forged stronger alliances and fostered an environment of trust and cooperation among our stakeholders including the Public and Private sectors as well as our international partners. We are on the verge of introducing multiple cutting-edge solutions to support our enforcement strategies starting with the signing of an MOU later today that seeks to put vehicle smugglers out of business for good. He also said the Customs prioritised stakeholder engagement. Progress measurement He said his organisation has also identified key performance indicators (KPIs) supported by concrete data. We will closely monitor and report on our monthly revenue collection to track our performance, he said. He added: It is essential to acknowledge that despite our early successes, we have encountered certain challenges during the initial phase of implementing our policy thrust. These challenges, he said include resistance to change, bureaucratic bottlenecks, dissonance in fiscal and monetary policies, the need to reorient the mindset of some officers and stakeholders, and the persistent issue of smuggling. Additionally, he said the dynamic nature of international trade and emerging threats necessitates constant adaptation and innovation. Moreover, he said any reluctance among officers and stakeholders to embrace a vision for the Nigeria Customs Service could undermine the synergy required for effective collaboration and innovation. Smugglers continually adapt their tactics, making it crucial for us to stay ahead of them through innovative strategies and increased cooperation with relevant agencies. However, I want to assure you that these challenges are not insurmountable. We are committed to addressing them proactively and leveraging them as opportunities for growth and improvement. Our journey towards consolidation, collaboration, and innovative solutions demands resilience and adaptability, and we are fully prepared to meet these challenges head-on, Mr Adeniyi said. Looking forward, he said, he envisions an NCS that is not only the most efficient and service-driven government organ but also a pivotal driver of national economic growth and border security. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) says it has no agreement with the federal government to call off the planned indefinite strike for 3 October. Head of Information and Public Affairs in NLC, Benson Upah, said this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja. He was reacting to a statement allegedly issued by the Director, Press and Public Relations in the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Olajide Oshundun. The NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) had at the end of the joint National Executive Council (NEC) meeting declared an indefinite strike beginning from Tuesday to press home their demands. Mr Upah said there were some inconsistencies in the statement which include the proposed strike and the illegal occupation of the secretariat of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW). READ ALSO: Accordingly, we find it necessary to make clarifications. Firstly, we do not have any agreement with the government to suspend the planned strike action. Neither do we have any date for a meeting with the government that may lead to the suspension of the proposed strike. While we do not intend to demean or minimise the office of the Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment, this matter is beyond the ministry. This should have been obvious to them during our most recent meeting, he added. He, therefore, commended the role played by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong, in securing the release of the executives of the NURTW from illegal police detention. Mr Upah added: We take exception to the ministry describing these executives as factional leaders. They were lawfully elected into office. We still find it necessary to advise the police and those elements behind their travails to desist from this despicable and shameful conduct. They are advised to retrace their steps. If democracy is to be of meaning to us, then we should resist the urge or temptation for impunity. Enough is enough. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says troops of the Nigerian armed forces have eliminated 191 terrorists, apprehended 184 and rescued 91 kidnapped hostages in different operations across the country. The Director of Defence Media Operations, Edward Buba, a major general, who made this known while briefing journalists on Thursday in Abuja, said the operations were conducted in the last two weeks. Mr Buba said 104 Boko Haram and Islamic States of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists and their families also surrendered to troops across theatres of operation during the period. In the North-east, he said troops of Operation Hadin Kai had conducted a series of clearance operations in Borno and Yobe, killing 17 terrorists, apprehending 12 and rescuing 17 kidnapped hostages. Mr Buba added that the troops were able to recover 40 AK47 rifles, 10 G3 rifle, one single barrel gun, one 36 hand grenade, five AK47 rifle loaded with 105 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, nine AK47 magazine, one G3 magazine and 546 rounds of .62mm special ammo. He added that 192 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 130 rounds of 9mm ammo, 10 empty cases of 7.62mm NATO, four rounds of 7.62mm special (refilled), 18 mobile phones and N678,750 were also recovered. In North-central, Mr Buba said troops of Operation Safe Haven had killed five terrorists, arrested 24 and rescued nine kidnapped persons, as well as recovered a cache of arms. He added that six daggers, three motorcycles, three mobile phones, three fragmental jackets, two Nigerian Police uniforms, one military camouflage trousers, one ammo magazine carrier, one military grade camel pouch among other items were recovered from the suspects. READ ALSO: The defence spokesperson said the troops of Operation Whirl Stroke conducted a fighting patrol and raid on terrorists hideouts in Nasarawa State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), killed six terrorists, arrested 62 and rescued nine kidnapped hostages. He added that the troops also recovered one SMG, one G3 rifle, one unserviceable FN rifle, one locally made pistol, 1,060 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 19 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammo, four rounds of 9mm ammo, vehicles, one motorcycle and one mobile phone. Mr Buba further said that troops of Operation Hadarin Daji in the North-west also killed 18 bandits and terrorists, arrested eight and rescued 38 kidnapped hostages. He said in addition to that, the troops were able to recover one PKT gun, five AK47 rifles, two AK47 rifles loaded with 23 rounds of 7.62mm ammo, one fabricated rifle, one locally made pistol, 7 magazines, 215 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 22 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammo, 5 cartridges, 11 motorcycles and three mobile phones. Mr Buba disclosed that troops of Operation Whirl Punch also eliminated three terrorists, arrested seven and rescued three hostages in Kaduna and Niger states during the period. He said during the operations, one AK47 rifle, three rounds of 7.62mm special, two mobile phones and the sum of N5.4 million and other sundry items were recovered from the criminals. Our mission against terrorists, insurgents and perpetrators of insecurity in the country is not one that should be seen as the exclusive preserve of just the military alone. Experience reveals that the military alone cannot neutralise terrorism and insurgency and this underscores the need for our counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency wars to remain a reflection of a whole of society commitment. The perpetrators of insecurity are not ghosts, they have families, relations and are from villages and communities in the country. Through a whole of society approach, we will suffocate any hope that these groups have of victory through senseless killings and dastardly acts, he said. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas (NUPENG) on Thursday directed its members to commence full mobilisation to ensure compliance with the directive of the Nigerian labour unions to embark on an indefinite strike. Members of NUPENG include the influential Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) whose members drive the petrol and diesel tankers that distribute the products from Lagos, where they are imported, across Nigeria. Virtually all the diesel and petrol used in Nigeria are imported and then distributed by road with tankers. A NUPENG strike could thus cripple the distribution of petrol and diesel across Nigeria and thus lead to a crisis in the sector and cripple the economy. NUPENGs strike notice was contained in a statement jointly signed by its President, Williams Akhoreha, and General Secretary Afolabi Olawale, on Thursday. The Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) had on Tuesday said they will embark on an indefinite strike from 3 October over the prevailing hardship due to the removal of subsidy on petrol. The TUC said, The strike is to demonstrate our resolve for a truly independent Nigeria; to take our destinies in our own hands and rescue our nation. In a statement on Thursday, NUPENG said the government had demonstrated a high insensitivity and lack of respect and regard for organized labour and the Nigerian masses. READ ALSO: Consequent upon the joint resolution of the National Executive Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress as the outcome of the joint National Executive Council meeting of the two Labour federations, held on 26 September 2023, we wish to inform all our members in the formal and informal sectors of the Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry and alert the general public that the rank and file members of our union are hereby directed to commence full mobilization and ensure unwavering compliance with the directive of the two Labour Centres to all affiliate Industrial Unions to embark on a nationwide industrial action from midnight of 3rd October 2023, it said. It explained that the leadership of NUPENG found it so disturbing and unfortunate, that the federal government of Nigeria and other tiers of governments are so insensitive to the excruciating and debilitating socio/economic pains Nigerians are passing through as a result of very harsh and sudden economic policies taken by this administration without any accompanying socio/economic policies to ameliorate and cushion the immediate effects and impacts those difficult and harsh policies are having on the citizenry. It added: Further worrisome to us is the apparent lack of regard and respect to the cries and yearnings of Organised Labour, Civil Society Organisations and the general public by this administration. It appears the administration is arrogantly taking the goodwill and the tolerance level of the workers and Nigerians in general for granted. This arrogance is demonstrated clearly and loudly by the ways and manners of meetings with organized labour and outcomes of such meetings are taken with levity and disrespect. The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) is aware of the huge impacts a 24-hour industrial action by organized labour can have on businesses and the socio/economic lives of the nation, unfortunately, the governments actions and inactions are inextricably forcing the organized labour to take this very hard and painful route of last resort to demand for needful socio/economic policies to ameliorate and cushion the debilitating and dehumanizing living conditions of Nigerians generally. Beyond any reasonable doubt, the government has demonstrated a high insensitivity and lack of respect and regard to organized labour and the Nigerian masses. Therefore, it is in the light of the above, that NUPENG as a responsive and responsible affiliate Union of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), will fully comply with the resolution of the joint NEC meeting and we hereby direct the leaders in the four (4) Zonal Councils of our great Union to mobilize all our members in the formal and informal sectors to shut down services effective 3rd October, 2023. All NUPENG members, including the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD), Petrol Stations Workers (PSW), Liquefied Petroleum Gas Retailers (LPGAR) and all other allied workers in the value chain of petroleum products distribution must comply with this directive from midnight of Tuesday, 3rd October 2023. All Branches and Units of our Union are to take note and ensure full compliance by setting up Compliance and Monitoring Teams in all operational locations. Our Solidarity remains constant, for the Union makes us strong. Background President Bola Tinubu had on 29 May announced the removal of fuel subsidy. The development led to hardship for many Nigerians with its attendant increase in the prices of goods and services. On 2 August, the NLC and TUC led Nigerian workers in protests across the country over the increasing cost of living due to government policies, especially the removal of subsidies on petrol. Also, on 5 and 6 September, the NLC embarked on a warning strike. It gave the government a two-week ultimatum. The congress said the warning strike was meant to demonstrate its readiness for the indefinite strike which will now commence on 3 October. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Vice President Kashim Shettima on Thursday assured Nigerians that their sacrifices for the peace, unity and development of the country would not be in vain. Mr Shettima gave the assurance at a public lecture to commemorate Nigerias 63rd Independence anniversary, held at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja. The vice president also pledged that the promises made by the President Bola Tinubu-led administration would be fulfilled for the benefit of every citizen. He said the administration was committed to building a country where the economic independence of each citizen was guaranteed. Over the past 63 years, we have not only survived but thrived because of our collective resolve, commitment to progress, and the enduring spirit of unity that binds us together. He said that the anniversary offers Nigeria another opportunity to acknowledge the cross-regional bonds that have kept the country standing as Africas most populous nation and largest economy. He noted that the future of a great nation was not determined by the occurrence of a socio-economic challenge, but by the intention, sincerity, and innovative ideas of its leaders, and their commitment to implementing them. We cannot renew the hope of the nation unless we deliver on our promise to drive food security and eradicate poverty. READ ALSO: We cannot foster economic growth and nurture job creation unless we facilitate access to capital, enhance national security, and optimise the business environment for our enterprises. We are going to uphold the rule of law and fight corruption to design the Nigeria of our dream. We cant achieve any of these unless each citizen remains a strategic partner in pursuit of our ultimate national interests. Mr Shettima, who recognised the sacrifices made by Nigerians over the years, noted that such solidarity has inspired the government to focus on diverse sectors, from agriculture to digital technology, from healthcare to education. We knew from the starting point of this race to serve the people that the track would not be without its holes and thorns. We knew that challenges would arise, and obstacles would test our resolve. But, as our history has shown, Nigerians are too ambitious to be broken by a temporary setback. We are going to emerge from this phase of our reforms stronger; each of us with renewed hope. These sacrifices are investments in a brighter future, one that will secure the well-being of current and future generations. As we work together towards a future where opportunity knows no bounds, lets remember that our most potent weapon is the overriding resolve of the majority to choose unity over chaos and democracy over anarchy. Symposium The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, explained that the symposium was intended to shed more light on critical areas of Nigerias socio-economic potential. These areas could be explored and developed through policies and programmes enunciated by this administration. This process is critical because of the dynamic nature of our socio-economic environment and the global systems. It is also significant because Tinubu had, during his recent address at the United Nations General Assembly, beckoned on the world leaders to partner with Nigeria for business and development. He said the Office of the SGF had made full arrangements that the critical outcomes of the symposium were made available to the highest level of political leadership. Where necessary, relevant national think-tank institutions such as the National Institute for Strategic Studies (NIPSS) and the Nigerian Institute for Social and Economic Research (NISER) would be engaged to deepen the articulation. Earlier, the guest speaker, Goke Adegoroye, commended Mr Tinubu for the steps taken so far in repositioning governance and resetting the economy. Mr Adegoroye, in a lecture themed Actualising the vision of Renewed Hope for socio-economic development through effective leadership, urged the administration to prioritise key aspects of the Renewed Hope. He said this would ensure that the impact of the agenda was felt across different sectors of the economy for the benefits of the citizens. Tinubus success depends on corruption fight Mr Adegoroye said the success of President Tinubu in office will depend on his commitment to fight corruption. The success of the President is actualising his Renewed Hope Agenda is contingent on his commitment to really deal with corrupt officials in leadership positions, be they political appointees or career public servants. Doing that at the topmost level is critical as the integrity backbone of the occupants of those positions is what the Accounting Officers and their subordinates would rely upon for the courage to do their jobs, he said. Mr Adegoroye lamented that corruption has festered more in the country despite multiple anti-corruption laws and enforcement institutions causing the nations woes to multiply. He said, Corruption has festered more despite our multiple anti-corruption laws and their enforcement institutions. Across all sectors, whether it is the NNPC Limited, the CBN, FIRS, Customs etc the nations woes have continued to mount. With the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), the Treasury Single Account (TSA) etc in place, humongous amounts of leakages have continued to occur in the treasury of Government. These speak of the integrity of many in leadership positions. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The United States on Thursday announced a visa restriction regime against those undermining democracy in Liberia. The policy, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, will take effect in advance of the upcoming election scheduled to be held next month. Liberia is set for its general elections on 10 October where it will elect its president, members of the House of Representatives and half of the Senate. Under this policy, the United States will pursue visa restrictions for those believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining democracy in Liberia, Mr Blinken said in a statement. READ ALSO: Undermining democracy in Liberia according to the statement includes manipulation or rigging of the electoral process; use of violence to prevent people from exercising their rights to freedom of association and peaceful assembly; use of measures designed to prevent political parties, voters, civil society, or the media from disseminating their views; or engagement in any other activity designed to improperly influence the outcome of an election. Mr Blinken added that certain family members of persons found culpable may also be subject to these restrictions. Persons who undermine democracy in Liberiaincluding in the lead-up to, during, and following Liberias 2023 electionsmay be found ineligible for US visas under this policy, he noted. However, Mr Blinken clarified that the visa restriction policy is not directed at the Liberian people or the Government of Liberia, rather it reflects the commitment of the US to support Liberians aspirations to have free and fair elections that demonstrate the will of the people and strengthen democracy and the rule of law. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The National Economic Council (NEC) has urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) not to abandon dialogue in their quest for better welfare for their members. The Council also appealed to the unions to suspend its planned nationwide indefinite strike schedule to start on 3 October. Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State stated this while briefing State House Correspondents at the end of the NEC meeting on Thursday in Abuja. He said that the nation was at a very critical moment in its history, adding that some state governors took over such labour crises when they assumed office in May. According to him, some states just resolved the crises and it will be unfair for the labour to return to another industrial action. The governor said that the proposed industrial action would have immense effect on the economy of both the states and the federal government. READ ALSO: Governors to meet NLC, TUC over fuel subsidy He said that the NEC expressed genuine concern about the situation in the country and appealed for calm and patience among Nigerians. The National Economic Council (NEC) deliberated on the planned indefinite strike by the National leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to proceed on an indefinite strike on 3 October, 2023. The council noted further the implications of the planned strike on the economy and the nation and thus urge members to continue to engage with the leadership of their respective states. It appeals to them to suspend the action and to continue on the path of dialogue with the federal government. This is the appeal of the council. He said that the council appreciated the concerns raised by the NLC to have those issues address, adding that NEC also appealed for time to address the concerns of labour. We also believe that President Bola Tinubu will be addressing the nation on 1 October, and some of the concerns of labour will be appropriately addressed in the presidents speech. It is therefore important to note that its a federation issue, so whatever happens the labour is represented in all the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). And NEC is appealing that discussion should continue at the state levels because there will be peculiarities as to the issues to be addressed concerning the demands of labour and therefore dialogue is the way to go. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has responded to an apology from his deputy, Philip Shaibu, over a face-off between them. 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 had 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 two appeared to have gotten messier in August when the governor sacked Mr Shaibus aides after the deputy governor staged a walkout 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, in the heat of the feud, relocated the deputy governors office out of the Government House. In a fresh twist last week, Mr Shaibu, the embattled deputy governor, tendered a public apology to the governor over the face-off. I use this medium to appeal to Mr Governor, if there is anything that I dont know that I have done, please forgive me so that we can develop our state together, Mr Shaibu said while addressing reporters in Benin, the state capital. We have just one year to go. We have been the envy of the entire country. So, Mr governor, if there is anything you feel that I have done, please I am sorry. I need us to work together to finish well and strong, the deputy governor added. Obasekis response In a statement on Thursday, Mr Obaseki, said he had noted the public apology from his deputy, stressing that the apology followed an aberrant behaviour that contradicts what people of the state stand for. The governor recalled how Mr Shaibu needlessly filed unfounded petitions in Nigerian courts restraining him (Obaseki), the state assembly and security agencies from a non-existent impeachment process against the deputy governor. He accused the deputy governor of repeatedly breaching protocol, carrying out unwarranted and unprovoked attacks in the media against him as well as the state government. The media frenzy as a result of the above and more, provided an impression of crises that has been precarious and distasteful to Edo people in the state and across the world, Mr Obaseki said. The governor, however, said he had decided to forgive the deputy governor for his actions following the apology. Although these unwarranted provocations caused me severe personal discomfort, as a person of faith, I am under obligation to accept this apology because as they say, to err is human, to forgive is divine. In good faith, I trust that the public apology as expressed by the deputy governor is genuine and followed by contrite steps to improve his conflict resolution skills, he said. Mr Obaseki enjoined the deputy governor to guide his proxies to act in accordance with his piety. The governor expressed hope that the feud between him and his deputy would be put to an end forthwith so that his administration will finish strong and deliver dividends of democracy to the people of the state for the next one year. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Chuseok, Korea's biggest holiday of the year, started this week. According to Samguksagi, a historical record of the Three Kingdoms of Koguryo, Baekje and Shilla, Chuseok dates back to the Shilla Kingdom, which thrived around 2,000 years ago. A big festival was held by an ancient king of Shilla, in which two teams of women were formed, each led by one of the king's two daughters, to compete in weaving. The month-long contest lasted until the 15th day of the eighth lunar month. The two teams of women wove fabric from early morning until late at night. A month later the team that wove the longest piece of fabric won and they were treated by the losing team to seasonal fruits and drinks, and a huge party under the full moon, the brightest night of the year, ensued. Many historians view this as the first Chuseok, although there are several different tales as to the holiday's origins. The governorship election petition tribunal sitting in Kaduna has upheld the victory of Uba Sani, the governor of Kaduna State, in the 18 March governorship election in the state. Mr Sani was the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC). His election was challenged by the first runner-up, Isah Ashiru of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The three-member panel led by Victor Oviawe declared that the PDP and its candidate could not validate their claim that the election was rigged. The verdict was announced via Zoom on Thursday. According to Channels Television, whose reporting crew was granted physical access to the court, in a split judgement of two to one, the panels lead justice dismissed the petition on the ground that the pre-hearing notice was filed out of time and therefore deemed to be abandoned. The tribunal chairman and another member held that the appeal brought by the PDP and Mr Ashiru wasnt meritorious because the filing of the pre-hearing notice was abandoned and out of time, and therefore had dealt the entire petition a fatal blow. However, the tribunal noted that if the petition had not been dismissed for lack of merit, it would have ordered a supplementary election in 22 polling units within 90 days. Mr Sani polled 730,001 votes to defeat his closest rival Mr Ashiru who scored 719,196 votes. The Labour Party (LP) candidate, Jonathan Asake, came a distant third with 58,283 votes, while Suleiman Hunkuyi of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) scored 21,405 votes. While the LP and NNPP accepted the outcome of the election, the PDP and its candidate rejected the results, alleging that the Independent National Electoral Commission declared the wrong candidate the winner. PDPs case The PDP and Mr Ashiru alleged that there were massive irregularities and manipulation of results in favour of Mr Sani in some local governments. They insisted that Mr Sani did not score the highest number of valid votes cast in the election and ought not to have been returned the winner of the election. At the last sitting of the court on 3 September, all parties presented their final written addresses before the tribunal, with APCs legal team led by a former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Bayo Ojo, arguing that the petitioners had in fact helped to prove that his client won the election free and fair. He pointed in particular to the admission of one of the petitioners witnesses, Bonett Gwazah, a senior system analyst in the VR/ICT department of the INEC in Kaduna State. The PDP, however, argued that two conflicting election results emerged from INEC. The partys legal team led by Oluwole Iyamu, SAN, accused INEC of manipulating the election results in favour of Mr Sani. Uba Sani lauds verdict In a statement, the governors spokesperson, Mohammed Shehu, said Mr Sani lauded the judgement describing it as a win for democracy and a validation of the peoples will and above all, Gods decree. On this historic day, I join the people of Kaduna State to celebrate this monumental victory for democracy, the governor stated. I consider this verdict not only as a win but a call to action, a call to deliver on our campaign promises as captured in the SUSTAIN agenda. This victory is a testament to the strength of our great judicial institutions and a proud moment for me as one of the pioneer advocates for democratic governance in Nigeria decades ago. The Deputy Governor, Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe and I express our immense gratitude to the good people of Kaduna State for their prayers, support and firm belief in our mandate. Indeed, your unshaken loyalty and confidence in our administration is the propellant to ensuring we continue to deliver on our promises to you, the governor Sani added. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Africa has become one of the hotspots of mobile cyber threats in the world, according to new research published Thursday by Kaspersky, a global cybersecurity and digital privacy company. The report indicates that threats to mobile devices increased in the second quarter of 2023. Among the most prevalent mobile threats that were detected in the Middle East, Turkiye and the African region are adware and mobile banking threats. There was a significant rise particularly in adware detections: 94 per cent in Nigeria, 49 per cent in Turkiye, 27 per cent in South Africa, 39 per cent in Kenya, and 6 per cent in the Middle East. Meanwhile, banking trojans, which are used to hunt for data related to online banking and e-payment systems, are another concerning threat for mobile users. Specifically, Turkiye saw a twofold increase (102 per cent) in Trojan-Banker detections in Q2 2023 compared to Q2 2022, the report said. While users increasingly rely on their mobile devices to share personal data and connect to corporate networks, the report noted that the number of mobile threat detections particularly in Africa, the Middle East, and Turkiye increased by 5 per cent. However, it stated that these threats were blocked by Kaspersky Mobile Solutions. The researchers said a total of 5.7 million mobile malware, adware, and riskware attacks were blocked. With the growing adoption of smartphones and mobile banking in the Middle East, Turkiye, Africa region, cybercriminals are likely to further increase their targeting of mobile devices, said Anton Kivva, Malware Analyst and Team Lead at Kaspersky. We can expect a surge in phishing attacks, mobile malware, and malicious apps disguised as legitimate financial services. Cybercriminals will continue to exploit social engineering tactics, such as SMS phishing and voice phishing, to trick mobile users into revealing sensitive information or downloading malicious content, he said. The most common threat to mobile devices was potentially unwanted software (RiskTool). The company said 30.8 per cent of all RiskTool threats were detected. It added that a total of 370,327 malicious installation packages were detected, of which: 59,167 packages were related to mobile banking Trojans while 1,318 packages were mobile ransomware Trojans. Threats statistics in the reports were more prevalent on Android devices which hold a dominant market share in the Middle East, Africa, and Turkiye. Apple devices are not immune to cyber threats but are difficult to monitor due to OS specifics, the researchers said. Individuals and organisations in the Middle East, Turkiye, and Africa should prioritise mobile cybersecurity measures, including robust antivirus software, regular updates, user education, and vigilance against social engineering tactics to safeguard their mobile devices and sensitive data, Mr Kivva said. Recommendations To protect yourself from mobile threats, Kaspersky recommends downloading apps only from official stores like Apple AppStore, Google Play or Amazon Appstore. Apps from these markets are not 100 per cent failsafe, but at least they get checked by the moderators and there is some filtration system not every app can get onto these stores. Its worth looking through user reviews of an app to see if there is any negative feedback on its functionality, the organisation said. It also advised individuals to check the permissions of apps that they use and think carefully before permitting an app, especially when it comes to high-risk permissions such as Accessibility Services. A reliable mobile security solution like Kaspersky Premium can help you to detect malicious apps and adware before they start behaving badly on your device. Also, update your operating system and important apps as updates become available. Many safety issues can be solved by installing updated versions of software. The organisation called on the mobile industry to enhance cyber protection at all levels, including security for users, by providing tailored cybersecurity services. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigerian government has categorised states into three based on the extent of flooding in the states this year. The Minister of the Federal Captial Territory, Nyesom Wike, disclosed this Thursday while briefing State House journalists at the end of the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting. Mr Wike said a special committee set up by NEC did the grouping after it went round the country to assess the impact of floods. The states in group A are those with over 15 points. The most affected States are Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger, Rivers, Enugu, Kano, Oyo, Yobe, Zamfara Those in group B, those with 10-15 points, are Cross River, Delta, Jigawa, Kwara, and Ondo while those in category C with less than 10 points are Katsina, Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Ebonyi, Edo, Ekiti, Gombe, Imo, Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Lagos, Ogun, Osun, Plateau, Sokoto, Taraba, FCT. He said the council directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to immediately provide intervention to the affected states. NEC resolved to develop a roadmap for intervention and directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide immediate intervention on relief materials to the affected states, he said. The minister said the NEC would develop a road map in collaboration with the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum to address the incessant flooding. PREMIUM TIMES has reported floods in many states leading to some deaths and loss of properties. On Thursday, the meteorological agency, NiMet, urged Nigerians to expect more floods in some states due to the volume of rainfall expected. While more floods are still expected this year, the situation has been relatively better than last year when over 600 people died and over 1.4 million were displaced due to floods. After Mr Wikes address, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, gave details of balances in the nations excess crude and other accounts as follows: Excess Crude Account, $473,754.57; Stabilization Account, N34,936,868,803.58 (34.9 billion); Development of Natural Resources, N128,330,636,441.14 (128.3 billion). Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Lawyers in Ondo State have weighed in on the process going on in the state House of Assembly for the impeachment of the states deputy governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa. The House of Assembly, led by Olamide Oladiji, served Mr Aiyedatiwa with a notice of 14 allegations and has directed the chief judge to set up a seven-member panel of inquiry to investigate the allegations. This was despite Mr Aiyedatiwa obtaining a court order restraining the House on the matter, pending the determination of his case, for which hearing the court has fixed 9 October. Is the House right in insisting on proceeding with the process despite the court order? What do residents of the state think about the effort to kick Mr Aiyedatiwa out of office? PREMIUM TIMES spoke with some lawyers in the state. Two constitutional lawyers, Jiti Ogunye, and Femi Emodamori, faulted the steps that Mr Aiyedatiwa have taken towards stopping the impeachment process. The two lawyers chided the deputy governor for running to the courts when he was yet to be served the impeachment notice. They argued that Mr Aiyedatiwa abused the court process when he sought to stop the procedure even before the commencement of the process. Speaking on a programme on Television Continental (TVC), Mr Ogunye described the deputy governors action as a clear violation of the constitution. He said Mr Aiyedatiwa approaching the Federal High Court instead of the state high court, and suing the governor, House of Assembly and the chief judge, were wrong. Mr Ogunye said the deputy governor should submit himself and answer the allegations levelled against him. The issue of principle here is that there is a route under Section 188 of the Constitution. That route says that in seven days you should receive a notice served by the Speaker on the holder of the office, be it governor or deputy governor. Within 14 days, a vote is taken, if two-thirds pass the matter, it goes to the chief judge of the state within seven days and then a panel is set up within three months and the report comes in, Mr Ogunye said. After the report comes in, if the report says no misconduct has been committed, the matter ends there. If it says misconduct is proven, then the person is impeached. Thats the process. And so, if at the tail-end the process is not followed, the holder of the office has a recourse to have him restored to power. The second one is the federalist principle which is very dear to me. You are a deputy governor of a state, you have a state high court, you are suing everybody in that state, including the chief judge of that state, and you are taking them to a federal government court? That offends my federalist principle, he said. Mr Emodamori on his part, argued that if the state assembly follows section 188, sub-section 1-9, no court as stipulated in section 10, has the power to intervene. It is only when there are pure breaches of the law that the court may intervene. Now, His Excellency hasnt even been served, the notice. It was initiated by 11 members of the House, more than one-third required, he didnt wait to be served. The law says it should be served within seven days. He rushed to court the following day that he had not been served, saying it was a violation of his rights. Then I have just seen another suit filed by my respected colleague, Ebun-olu Adegboruwa, and I have read the processes. Hes alleging violation of his own right to fair hearing that hes not been served. That its within social media even when section 188 says he should be served within seven days and its not yet seven days. Rushing to court even before the panel is constituted is an abuse of judicial process. He doesnt have a fundamental human right to protect at that stage. The body to hear him is the panel to be constituted by the chief judge. Until the body begins work, how do you complain of violation to fair hearing? However, an Akure-based lawyer, Donald Ayibiowu, described the entire impeachment project as pointless. In an open letter to Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, Mr Ayibiowu advised the governor to provide leadership and stop his family and friends who he said are orchestrating the current drama. Now that you are back and still recuperating in your Ibadan home, but in the light of your communication to the Ondo State House of Assembly that you have resumed work, one expects that you take charge fully of affairs of our dear Ondo State, notwithstanding, the shenanigans of family, friends and close political associates, he said. The shocking news of the ongoing pointless impeachment of your deputy, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, is the least the people expect from our dear State. I dare say that your deputy should not be made the scapegoat for what the whole world can see glaringly as Fuji House of Commotion in your absence. To participate, consent or authorise his removal would mean that you have taken sides. Your Excellency, your approach should be to declare that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God, because I believe you dont even know who is right, wrong, true, good or bad. Mr Ayibiowu said if the deputy governor had wanted to go against the governor as acting governor, he would have sacked some members of his cabinet and greatly altered the configuration of his government before his return. Therefore, should it be politically expedient for your team to proceed with their action, counsel them to follow the law. So far, the public has not seen any cogent misconduct or clear-cut financial misappropriation or embezzlement attributable to the Deputy Governor to warrant this harassment, he said. Mr Ayibiowu said the House had not been able to convince the public of any serious breach by the deputy governor, noting that its spokesperson, Olatunji Oshati, failed to do so when interviewed on Channels TV recently. He urged Mr Akeredolu to call his actors in this fruitless impeachment exercise to order, and focus on finishing his tenure strong by fulfilling all his campaign promises to the people of the state. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print ( Read 2237 Times) Seventeen students from Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology (MPUAT), Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, are currently undergoing a 1.5-month STEM Internship Program (August 14 - September 27, 2023) at Bronx Community College, City University of New York (CUNY). This program, conducted under the institutional development plan for student development by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), focuses on training students in the fields of Chemistry, Earth Science, and Environmental Science, under the guidance of Professors Paramita Sen and Neil Philip. All the students are actively participating in various scientific and intercultural activities in New York. As part of their experience, they took part in the India Day Parade in New York on Independence Day as guests of honor, representing India. The students have also visited the Statue of Liberty and the World Trade Center site on Governor's Island in Manhattan, New York. They were interviewed on CBS and BronxNet TV. Additionally, the students explored renewable energy, organic farming at Long Island, and visited the Cornell Agricultural Experiment Station in New York. They also attended a session at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, addressed by Dr. S. Jaishankar, the External Affairs Minister of India. During their stay in New York, the students actively participated in various workshops, gaining practical experience in subjects such as biofuels, chemical instruments, soil science, crop cultivation, seed planting, and soil testing. Source : ( Read 2424 Times) Udaipur: Saint Lalitprabh Sagar Maharaj emphasized the importance of paying respect to elders, particularly parents, during a discourse on personality development and character building currently underway in Surajpol Dadawadi. He stated that our foremost duty is to pay homage to our elders. Showing respect to them not only leads to positive outcomes but also energizes the body, enhances energy flow, and improves the balance between the right and left brain hemispheres. In today's world, we use mobile networks for communication, but our "for G" should be directed towards our mother, father, guru (teacher), and the divine. Those who start their day by paying respects to their parents are never destined to be poor, those who respect their fathers are never unfortunate, those who honor their gurus are never despondent, and those who pay respects to their elder siblings are never devoid of character. Saint Lalitprabh Ji also shared that while astrologers can predict the impact of Saturn's influence, paying obeisance to parents in the morning can mitigate the effects of Saturn's seven and a half-year cycle within seven months. In a five-day lecture series held in Jain Dadabadi, Mevad Motors' Lane, Surajpol, Saint Lalitprabh Ji addressed young individuals on Thursday. He encouraged the audience to greet elders and seek their blessings, as blessings hold great power. He explained that just as a rock appears sturdy, iron can break it, fire can melt iron, water can extinguish fire, humans can consume water, and death can end a human, but blessings possess the ability to reverse even imminent death. President Raj Lohra announced that Saint Lalitprabh Ji would deliver a lecture on the responsibilities of youth in the current era from 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM on Thursday. Source : The only known hybrid Iberian-Italian wolves live in Aragon, Spain. The male wolf is from Italy (Canis lupus italicus), while the female is from Spain (Canis lupus signatus). The only known case of an Iberian and Italian wolf couple lives in Aragon (between Alcaniz, Hijar and Caspe), a landlocked region in northeastern Spain. Over the years, Italian canids migrated to France and established a stable population. Recently, they started traveling to Spain across the Pyrenees mountain range. The confirmed pairing of individuals from both populations is considered great news, as it could potentially enrich the species through successful reproduction. The pair has been together for some time now, so its possible that they will breed next season, said Manuel Alcantara de la Fuente, who heads Aragons biodiversity unit. The mating season of the species starts at the end of winter, and births happen in spring. Alcantara says its unlikely that they already reproduced this year and that the cubs have gone unnoticed. Photos and videos show a very thin female with no visible breast development. Wolves made a comeback in Aragon during the early 2000s. In 2017, a male wolf of transalpine origin settled in Aragons sparsely populated Los Monegros region. Through genetic analysis, the Aragon government later confirmed the presence of five canids in that region four wolves of Italian origin and one Iberian wolf. In April, one of the males from Los Monegros who was often seen with a female, was hit by a vehicle and died in Alcaniz. Another wolf briefly passed through the area, while one frequently moves in and out of the community. Currently, the only two wolves permanently living in Aragon are the Iberian-Italian couple. Wolves are monogamous and tend to stay together. It is indeed great news, but successful reproduction would be even better as it would enhance the genetic diversity of the Iberian wolf population. We are on the verge of a significant breakthrough, said the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) local conservation coordinator, Luis Suarez. The Italian canids arrived in the Pyrenees 30 years ago after leaving the Apennine Mountains (Italy), and crossing the Alps, highways and other obstacles. By 1992, they had settled in France and then made their way to Spain. They havent reproduced because almost all the specimens are males. Females also move into new areas, but the male wolves tend to travel longer distances, said biologist Juan Carlos Blanco, an expert in carnivores. These are dispersing specimens. I would classify them as Franco-Italian, as they were most likely born in France, even though they originate from Italy. Blanco doesnt believe crossbreeding among the two populations will cause any problems. Controversy could arise if humans had brought them together, but the fact of the matter is that they arrived on their own. This decision by the species will result in greater genetic diversity and contribute to the regeneration of the European wolf. Blanco doesnt place much importance on arguments about subspecies distinctions because 300 years ago, wolves from southern Spain to Norway exhibited minimal differentiation. While isolated populations have developed some differences, these variations are not considered significant from an adaptive standpoint. They all come from one main line, said Blanco. The two populations are very similar, making it challenging to distinguish the origin of a specimen by simply looking at it. They have nuances that are almost impossible to detect, said Alcantara. However, he does see differences in their propensity for travel. It seems that wolves from the transalpine region disperse more. They have traveled across Europe and passed through places as developed as the Gulf of Marseille. However, wolves from around here dont move around much. According to Luis Suarez from WWF, the issue stems from the previous approach to species control before protections were implemented. The expansion of Iberian wolves was curtailed by overhunting. The specimens never went beyond La Rioja [northern Spain] and never made it to the Pyrenees. How did we let this happen? If the pair in Aragon produce offspring, they could establish links to the Iberian wolf population in Guadalajara (central Spain) and expand the territorial reach of the species. Currently, they are separated by half of Guadalajara province and nearly all of Teruel province, said Blanco. The growing wolf population in Europe is causing concern, leading the European Union to consider reducing current protections. The presence of wolves always worries people, but they havent caused much harm. We maintain constant communication with the ranchers, said Alcantara. Financial aid is also available to protect livestock herds with fences and dogs. When a wolf was spotted in Los Monegros, everyone thought the sky was falling. But it turned out not to be such a big deal. In the area where the Iberian-Italian wolf couple has settled, they have access to an abundant source of wild game to feed on, such as rabbits, roe deer and wild boar. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition The new B2C solution incorporates modern airline retailing concepts, creating a better transaction experience and boosting revenue DUBLIN, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- JR Technologies, a pioneer in airline retailing, has partnered with IAG Loyalty (IAGL), a leader in loyalty who own and manage Avios, the global loyalty currency of the Aer Lingus AerClub, the British Airways Executive Club and other international airlines' programs, to offer a comprehensive, simplified loyalty booking solution, including one of the airline industry's first multi-product shopping carts with loyalty currency + cash settlement capability. IAGL uses JR Technologies' Aerostream platform, specifically its Order Management solution, to create a streamlined multi-product shopping flow, resulting in a seamless and fast checkout experience for the traveler. The technology enables travelers and members to earn and redeem Avios on each product in their cart, including flights, hotels, and ancillary products, all within the same transaction. Additionally, travelers and members have the option to pay for individual products with cash, the Avios currency or a combination of both. IAGL also uses the Aerostream Offer Management platform for its hotel and car rental products. Aerostream, JR Technologies' latest travel technology solution, is a highly configurable retailing platform developed for airlines and the travel industry. Built on NDC and ONE Order concepts, Aerostream's Offer and Order Management solutions provide the foundation for an effortless travel booking and post-booking experience incorporating e-commerce best practices that have upgraded online retailing in other industries. For airlines that are often held back by legacy technology but see replacing their entire tech stack as an expensive, resource-intensive, and disruptive option, Aerostream represents an achievable and cost-effective path to improved digital retailing, increased revenue, and an enhanced shopping experience for passengers. "We came to JR Technologies because of their work with IATA and because they are the most credible solutions provider to partner with us on our path toward NDC and One Order retailing," said Stephen Scott, Chief Product & Data Officer of IAGL. "Aerostream's innovative multi-product shopping cart has enhanced our customers' booking experience and created stronger engagement as a result. This also aligns with the priorities of our launch airline, Aer Lingus." A retailing solution that improves the passenger experience IAG Loyalty has implemented Aerostream's solution into its customer loyalty platform and deployed it with the globally recognized carrier Aer Lingus. IAGL's customer support agents use the white-label solution to book and modify reservations for their customers and loyalty program members. Aerostream's Offer Management solution provides hotel and car rental inventory, while the platform's Order Management solution provides retailing services (including the multi-product shopping basket), an ancillary rules management console and analytical tools. Plans include adding flights to the multi-product IAGL offering via Aer Lingus. The Aerostream platform has also been deployed with British Airways, another airline in the Avios ecosystem. Future deployments include direct passenger/member access via IAGL's white-label B2C application across other airlines utilizing the Avios loyalty currency. To date, Aerostream has delivered positive results; since its launch in Q4 2022, Aer Lingus has experienced a 31% increase in volume and a 40% YOY revenue increase on bookings made through the IAGL platform, simply by providing a better and more convenient points-driven experience. "By deploying our new Aerostream platform with IAGL and Aer Lingus, we're demonstrating the power of modern airline retailing with two ideal partners," said Adarsh Suneja, CEO of JR Technologies, the creator of the Aerostream solution. "We're not just talking about NDC and ONE Order as concepts; we have a proven solution in production in a live environment, already generating performance results and positively impacting the travel experience." The JR Technologies, IAGL and Aer Lingus partnership shows that airlines can update their retailing processes with a modular approach, enabling quick wins, immediate revenue uplift and improved booking and redemption processes. For more information about the JR Technologies partnership with IAGL or to speak with company executives, please contact Vanessa Horwell at vhorwell@thinkinkpr.com. About Avios and IAG Loyalty Avios is the global loyalty currency of the British Airways Executive Club, Qatar Airways Privilege Club, Iberia Plus, Aer Lingus AerClub and Vueling Club. There are more than 40 million members worldwide, collecting in excess of 3,000 Avios every second. IAG Loyalty is committed to helping businesses transform relationships by maximising the potential for loyalty. We create unparalleled and rewarding experiences for Avios collectors, including a broad range of flight and travel rewards. Its leading airlines in Spain, the UK and Ireland include Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, Vueling and LEVEL. For further information on IAG Loyalty, please visit https://www.iagloyalty.com. For IAG Loyalty and Avios media inquiries, please contact media1@avios.com. About Aer Lingus Aer Lingus is the Irish flag carrier, founded in 1936. Aer Lingus operates over 100 routes from Dublin, Cork, Shannon and Knock to Europe, the UK and North America. Reaffirming its commitment to its North American expansion, the airline will operate 18 transatlantic routes in 2024 from Dublin and Shannon and a further three transatlantic routes from Manchester, UK to North America and the Caribbean. Aer Lingus is a 4-star airline, awarded by Skytrax, the international air transport rating organisation. Aer Lingus is a member of International Airlines Group (IAG), one of the world's largest airline groups. As part of IAG, Aer Lingus has pledged to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and has committed to powering 10% of its flights using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by 2030. About JR Technologies and Aerostream JR Technologies designs innovative technology solutions based on NDC and ONE Order principles to support travel companies' initiatives to modernize their operating models. A trusted partner of some of the world's largest airlines and an International Air Transport Association (IATA) strategic partner, JR Technologies is accelerating the transformation of the travel industry's current retail and distribution landscape through true order and offer management. The company created the Aerostream Travel Retailing Platform to help airlines transition to a modern digital retailing model while getting the most out of existing legacy systems. JR Technologies is headquartered in Detroit with offices in Chania, Athens, Orlando and Boston. Visit www.jrtechnologies.com to learn more. SOURCE JR Technologies Creating a world-class design vanguard, an innovation hub, and a premier showcase for new products SHANGHAI, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On September 26, 2023 World Design Cites Conference (WDCC2023), hosted by the Shanghai Municipal People's Government and supported by UNESCO and the Chinese National Commission for UNESCO, officially opened. With the theme of "Design Beyond Creativity" and the mission of "building a platform for global design cooperation and exchange, exploring design-led high-quality development, and promoting design everywhere in cities and urban life", this conference will gather prominent guests and leading brands to create a world-class design vanguard, an innovation hub, and a premier showcase for new products. The Opening Ceremony of WDCC2023 Creative Design Industry Projects Launch In the keynote speech, guests such as Chang Qing (academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and president of the Shanghai Architectural Society), Xue Min (Chairman of Lianying Group), and Don Norman (member of the U.S. National Academy of Engineering and winner of the first Frontier Design Prize) shared their insights on urban renewal, industrial innovation, and design ideas. Two roundtables on the themes of "Design Beyond Creativity" invited design experts, scholars, and entrepreneurs from China, France, Italy, Japan and other countries to discuss how design can enable global interconnection and how AIGC technology can promote the high-quality development of the design industry. House of Lanvin also presented its global AIGC fashion debut at the opening ceremony. Compared with the first WDCC, the main exhibition of this session has been upgraded in all aspects, consisting of Industrial Pavilion, Fashion Pavilion, Urban Exhibition, and Design Carnival. The exhibition covers a total area of 20,000 square meters, and more than 300 leading international and domestic enterprises are selected to participate, presenting to the public how design can drive industrial innovation, enable a better life and serve the urban development, demonstrating how design can drive industrial development from 1 to 100. The general public can make an appointment to the exhibition for free through the WDCC official WeChat mini-program to experience the charm of design for themselves. Design, as a key value-adding part of the industrial chain, has become an important engine for industrial innovation and development; it serves as a crucial means to optimize people's way of living well and a fundamental element to shape a city's brand image. Since Shanghai joined the United Nations Creative Cities Network in 2010 and became a "city of design", it has accelerated the gathering of excellent design enterprises and design talents. Innovative design achievements have continued to emerge with increasing international and domestic influence. SOURCE WDCC 2023 DALLAS, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Association of Diversity in Clinical Trials (AOD) proudly announces its newest partners, Accelerated Cure Project for Multiple Sclerosis and Arab Board for Clinical Research. This strategic collaboration aims to drive diversity and inclusion within the realm of clinical trials, addressing longstanding disparities in healthcare access. AOD, a leading advocate for diversity and equity in clinical research, has forged these partnerships to expand its impact on underrepresented populations. Accelerated Cure Project for Multiple Sclerosis, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing multiple sclerosis (MS) research, shares AOD's commitment to equal access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies for all patients, regardless of their background. The Arab Board for Clinical Research, renowned for its advocacy work in the clinical research space, joins forces with AOD to enhance diversity in clinical trials on a global scale. "Our partnership with the Accelerated Cure Project for Multiple Sclerosis and the Arab Board for Clinical Research is a vital step in addressing clinical trial disparities," stated Jeremy Mitchell, AOD's Director of Business Development. "Together, we aim to improve healthcare outcomes for all by ensuring trials reflect our diverse communities." This collaboration fosters knowledge sharing and strategies for diverse community engagement in clinical trials. AOD, Accelerated Cure Project for Multiple Sclerosis, and the Arab Board for Clinical Research unite for a more inclusive healthcare future. About AOD: The Association of Diversity in Clinical Trials is a premier organization dedicated to propelling diversity, inclusivity, and equality in clinical research. Focused on advancing healthcare solutions across diverse populations, the Association serves as a nexus for industry professionals who champion these values. About Accelerated Cure Project for Multiple Sclerosis: Accelerated Cure Project for Multiple Sclerosis is a nonprofit organization dedicated to accelerating research efforts to improve the lives of people with multiple sclerosis. Their collaborative approach fosters innovation and advances our understanding of MS. About the Arab Board for Clinical Research: The Arab Board for Clinical Research is a renowned institution promoting clinical research excellence in the Arab community. With a commitment to fostering diversity in research, they aim to improve healthcare outcomes for all. Jeremy Mitchell, MBA Director, Business Development The Association of Diversity in Clinical Trials [email protected] 1-989-780-4244 SOURCE The Association of Diversity in Clinical Trials NEW YORK, Sept. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The aerosol refrigerants market is expected to grow by USD 317.61 million from 2022 to 2027. In addition, the growth momentum of the market will progress at a CAGR of 4.55% during the forecast period, according to Technavio. Increasing demand for refrigerators, chillers, and air conditioners is notably driving the aerosol refrigerants market. However, factors such as raw material price fluctuations may impede market growth. The market is segmented by End-user (Residential, Commercial, and Others), Product (Aluminum and Steel), and Geography (Europe, North America, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa). We provide a detailed analysis of 20 companies operating in the aerosol refrigerants market including A Gas International Ltd., Airosol Co. Inc., Akzo Nobel NV, Arkema Group, Baltic Refrigeration Group, Daikin Industries Ltd., Dongyue Group Ltd., E.F. International BVBA, First Continental International, Gujarat Fluorochemicals Ltd., Harp International Ltd., Honeywell International Inc., Linde Plc, National Refrigerants Ltd., Navin Fluorine International Ltd., Orbia Advance Corp. SAB de CV, Sinochem Group Co. Ltd., SRF Ltd., The Chemours Co., and Zhejiang Fotech International Co. Ltd..The report offers an up-to-date analysis of the market, and to know the exact growth variance and the Y-O-Y growth rate, Request Free Sample Report. Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Aerosol Refrigerants Market 2023-2027 Aerosol Refrigerants Market 2023-2027: Company Analysis A Gas International Ltd - The company offers aerosol refrigerants such as HFC refrigerants and low GWP refrigerants. This report provides a full list of key companies, their strategies, and the latest developments. Buy Now for detailed company information Aerosol Refrigerants Market 2023-2027: Segmentation End-user The residential segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. There is an increase in residential activities globally, which contributes significantly to the growth of the market. Consumers are increasingly adopting technologically advanced home appliances due to the development of smart city projects. Furthermore, the demand for air conditioning is increasing significantly due to the increasing number of construction and smart city projects, which in turn will drive the development of aerosol refrigerants. These aerosol refrigerants are widely used in air conditioning systems and other cooling equipment. Consequently, the production and supply of cooling equipment in homes and other residential areas has significantly increased the demand for spray refrigerants. Hence, these factors are expected to drive segment growth during the forecast period. Geography Europe is estimated to contribute 31% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Some of the key countries contributing significantly to the aerosol refrigerants market in Europe include Germany and the UK and are expected to continue growing due to the expansion of popular retail chains. Furthermore, Fluoride gas (F gas) is a family of artificial gases widely applied in industries for many applications. Since these gases are environmentally friendly and have no impact on the atmospheric ozone layer, they are widely used as substitutes for ozone-depleting substances. However, because these gases cause a greenhouse effect, which, in turn, leads to climate change, the EU has imposed strict guidelines on the use of these gases. As a result, demand for aerosol refrigerants is increasing due to increased demand for secondary refrigerants in the region due to F-gas regulations or recent HFC phase-out plans. Hence, these factors are expected to drive market growth in the region during the forecast period. Other regions include North America , APAC, South America , and the Middle East and Africa . Learn about the contribution of each segment summarized in concise infographics and thorough descriptions. View Free PDF Sample Report Aerosol Refrigerants Market 2023-2027: Key Highlights Historic Market Size 2017-2021 CAGR of the market during 2023-2027 Detailed information on factors that will assist aerosol refrigerants market growth during the next five years Estimation of the aerosol refrigerants market size and its contribution to the parent market Forecasts on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior The growth of the aerosol refrigerants market Analysis of the competitive landscape and detailed information on companies Comprehensive details of factors that will impede the growth of aerosol refrigerant market companies Related Reports: The hot melt adhesives market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.28% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 4,396.66 million. The fluorapatite market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 3.85% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 151.05 million. Aerosol Refrigerants Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2022 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 4.55% Market growth 2023-2027 USD 317.61 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 4.07 Regional analysis Europe, North America, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution Europe at 31% Key countries US, China, Japan, Germany, and the UK Competitive landscape Leading Companies, Market Positioning of Companies, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled A Gas International Ltd., Airosol Co. Inc., Akzo Nobel NV, Arkema Group, Baltic Refrigeration Group, Daikin Industries Ltd., Dongyue Group Ltd., E.F. International BVBA, First Continental International, Gujarat Fluorochemicals Ltd., Harp International Ltd., Honeywell International Inc., Linde Plc, National Refrigerants Ltd., Navin Fluorine International Ltd., Orbia Advance Corp. SAB de CV, Sinochem Group Co. Ltd., SRF Ltd., The Chemours Co., and Zhejiang Fotech International Co. Ltd. Market dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, and Market condition analysis for the forecast period. Customization purview If our report has not included the data you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get customized segments. ToC: Executive Summary Market Landscape Market Sizing Historic Market Sizes Five Forces Analysis Market Segmentation by End-User Market Segmentation by Product 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 Refugees from the Nagorno-Karabakh region ride on the back of a truck as they arrive at the border village of Kornidzor, Armenia, on September 26, 2023. Educational exposure of ideas, assumptions or hypotheses, based on proven facts" (which need not be strictly current affairs) Value in judgments are excluded, and the text comes close to an opinion article, without judging or making forecasts , just formulating hypotheses, giving motivated explanations and bringing together a variety of data The self-proclaimed Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh has ceased to exist and the ethnic Armenian population residing in the territory has set out on another exodus, adding one more painful exile suffered by the Armenian people to the countrys collective memory. It remains to be seen what effect the wave of refugees will have on the leadership of Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. It also remains to be seen what the attitude of President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan will be towards the Karabakh Armenians who remain in the territory. They have to trust that the authoritarian leader will respect, as he claims, the minority rights of Azerbaijans citizens of Armenian origin. In Armenia itself, the people fear that Aliyevs forces will continue their victorious streak that led to the take-over of Nagorno-Karabakh and seize territory in the internationally recognized state of Armenia. For the region to develop, it is essential to restore (and expand) the system of communications that was severed at the end of the 1980s, when the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict first broke out. But the restoration of communications can only be a reality if the two countires and the larger regional powers involved in the area (Russia, Turkey, and Iran) reach a consensus that the European Union and the United States can also sign up to. In these untamed lands, the political and economic configuration of an important part of the world is at stake. From a geostrategic point of view, the key point is the corridor through the Zangezur region, in southern Armenia. It is a 43-kilometer (27-mile) wide strip of land, located on the route from Turkey to Baku along the border with Iran. On this route, which unites the Azerbaijani exclave of Nakhchivan to Azerbaijan proper, a rail and road communications system operated during the Soviet Union. It was later abandoned when the conflict broke out in Nagorno-Karabakh, as the trains were stoned by one side or the other, depending on the section and the rails were torn up. The loss of land communication between the main territory of Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan forced Azerbaijanis to detour through Iran or through Georgia and Turkey to access Nakhchivan. The creation of a corridor between Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan appears in the ceasefire protocol that Aliyev and Pashinyan, arbitrated by Russian President Vladimir Putin, signed in November 2020. But the negotiations to implement it have not been successful, as Armenia fears Azerbaijan will use the corridor to annex Zangezur. And there is no shortage of other reasons. Zangezur adopted Christianity in the 4th century and Armenians consider this region the cradle of their people. Occupied over time by the Seljuk Turks and the Mongols and devastated by Ottoman and Persian raids, in 1813 Zangezur was incorporated into the Russian Empire. At the beginning of the 20th century, Muslims (mostly Azerbaijanis) and Armenians lived in the territory, but the majority of the Azerbaijani population in the area fled the ethnic cleansing carried out by the Armenian warlords in their war against Azerbaijan (1918-1920). In 1920, Zangezur became part of the Armenian Soviet Republic. And at the end of the 1980s, its last Azerbaijani residents fled for fear of a new ethnic cleansing, like those that had already been unleashed in other territories affected by the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. In front of a military audience in 2014, Aliyev said: The Armenian state was founded on the historical territories of Azerbaijan. The Yerevan Khanate, Zangezur [] are our historical lands. We, the Azerbaijanis, must and will return to these lands, and we will do it. We must restore our territorial integrity. In April 2021, the Azerbaijani leader stated in an interview that the creation of the Zangezur corridor fully responds to our national, historical, and future interests. We are implementing the Zangezur corridor, whether Armenia wants it or not. If Armenia wants it, then the issue will be resolved easier, if it does not want it, we will decide it by force. Following his meeting on Monday with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Aliyev said, I am sure this project will develop successfully and [] it will serve the interests of Azerbaijan, Turkey and other countries. He added that he was confident that the Azerbaijani part of the work would be ready at the beginning of next year. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, on a joint visit to the Azerbaijani exclave of Nakhchivan, on September 25. ROMAN ISMAYILOV (EFE) The Russian presence Under the November 2020 agreement, the custody of the Zangezur corridor falls to Russian border guards, who also control Armenias borders with Turkey and Iran. In addition to a military base in Armenia and several thousand border guards, Moscow has a military contingent of nearly 2,000 soldiers on a peace mission who were to ensure the safety of the ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh. The interests of the principal actors diverge. For Azerbaijan, in addition to communication between parts of its territory, the corridor reinforces the two states, one people policy practiced by Ankara and Baku. Moscow, for its part, fears that Turkey will gain a foothold in the area and that the West will position itself to replace Russian border guards. For the Kremlin, staying in Zangezur is a way of staying in the South Caucasus, even if only symbolically. Iran, in turn, fears that Armenia will become a NATO outpost and an operational platform for Israel. If Aliyev invaded Zangezur, would the West consider measures against Baku similar to those it adopted against Russia for its annexations in Ukraine? Azerbaijan has the support of Turkey and is a valuable source of hydrocarbons. The country is also a strategic transit area, and, given the nature of its neighbors, Baku would have a different field of maneuver in a war with Armenia than Moscow has in its conflict with Kyiv. Nikola Pashinyan came to power in 2018 supported by a popular revolution and with ideas of democratization and development that went contrary to the course Putin wanted Armenia to navigate. The Prime Minister of Armenia has had to choose between allowing his country to potentially suffer heavy casualties in a war to protect Nagorno-Karabakh or cutting ties (hopes and ambitions) and negotiate with Baku, trusting that the countrys regime will respect the rights of the citizens of Azerbaijan of Armenian origin. The June 2021 elections endorsed Pashinyans policies and allowed him to renew his mandate. For Armenian society as a whole, the future outweighed the defense of Nagorno-Karabakh. Whatever the resentments towards Moscow, Armenia cannot do without Russia right now, any more than Moscow can do without Yerevan. However, Armenia is trying to replace or compensate for Russian influence. Having lost hope of obtaining weapons that had long been requested from Russia, Yerevan has negotiated arms deals with India and France. The precedent set by the French would mean that other NATO countries could also sell to Armenia and there would no longer be a dependence on Russia, says Armenian historian Georgi Derluguian, according to whom the situation in that country is part of the same war for global hegemony that we see in Ukraine, perhaps in Syria and elsewhere. With Pashinyan in power, Armenias economy has developed, also partly thanks to the exile of highly qualified Russian specialists. Pashinyan is a leader with a sense of state because he has supported the real and current interests of Armenia, says Azerbaijani analyst Togrul Juvarly. And he adds: For Aliyev, respecting the rights of Armenians would be a historic step to position himself in the modern world and become part of the community of civilized leaders. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition African Pride set to distribute NEW Moisture Miracle Collection across College Campuses ATLANTA, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- African Pride , an award-winning haircare brand known for addressing the needs of all hair types with premium, natural ingredients, is once again proud to announce its partnership with Impressions of Beauty , a trusted multicultural college marketing company; that connects students to beauty & lifestyle brands through on-campus activation. African Pride ambassadors at Homecoming HBCU Students enjoying YardFest with African Pride Haircare African Pride is taking the campus scene by storm, and they are not holding back on the fun. In a spectacular fusion of engagement and education, African Pride is thrilled to announce that they will be jumpstarting the 2023 Fall college semester with dorm drops of samples from their staple 'Moisture Miracle' collection to students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and Predominantly White Institutions (PWI) nationwide. For the last 7 years, African Pride has been dedicated to empowering and supporting students at HBCUs. Through the partnership with Impressions of Beauty, African Pride has consistently provided essential beauty kits to HBCU students during orientations, back-to-school events, and homecoming season. This meaningful tradition continues as African Pride expands its "Moisture Miracle" collection, offering a wide range of nourishing hair products for coily & curly consumers. To see the list of participating colleges and universities, please click here. "We are proud to be part of these prestigious universities every year," says Jazzmene Ford, Marketing Manager at African Pride. "It is important for us to engage and connect with this specific demographic at this entry point of her hair journey. We aspire to establish ourselves as a dependable brand that she can consistently rely on." "At IOB, a significant facet of our mission is to introduce students to exceptional brands that have a vested interest in their unique needs as multicultural consumers," says Ashlee Gomez, Founder & CEO of Impressions of Beauty. "We pride ourselves on cultivating meaningful connections between influential brands and HBCU students, and we are so thrilled to have African Pride on this journey with us! The honor of being able to help positively shape the consumer journey of our student audience holds immeasurable value, not just for us, but also for our esteemed brand partners!" Additionally, African Pride will be pulling up to 5-Key HBCUs for Homecoming Yardfest season, bringing live and interactive experiences, from September 29th to October 27th. These homecoming extravaganzas will be the talk of the quads. Tour stops will include: September 29, 2023 - Texas Southern University - October 6, 2023 - Morgan State University - October 13, 2023 - Tuskegee University - Tuskegee October 20, 2023 - Clark Atlanta University - October 27, 2023 - Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University This partnership will bring style, education, and empowerment together. African Pride and Impressions of Beauty will continue its commitment to students' well-being and self-expression, as they sample their signature line "Moisture Miracle" collection, African Pride is not just distributing haircare essentials; they're creating connections, confidence, and an atmosphere of celebration. To learn more about African Pride, its partnership, and the colleges involved, please visit https://impressionsofbeauty.com/ About African Pride For 30 years, African Pride has addressed the haircare needs of all hair types and textures whether natural or relaxed with brands like Black Castor Miracle, Moisture Miracle, Shea Miracle, Olive Miracle, and Dream Kids. We believe in the unspoken power of a great hair day. The boost of energy given when your beauty and confidence are intertwined should be accessible to all women. That's why we created African Pride products with premium, natural ingredients at an affordable price to ensure that you're less stressed about your hair and more focused on stepping into your best self. For more information about the brand, visit AfricanPrideHair.com, and tell us your hair story by engaging with us on social and using the hashtag #MyAfricanPride. About Impressions of Beauty Impressions of Beauty (IoB) is a trusted resource for multi-cultural millennials and Gen-Z students in search of brands that solve their problems. IoB is passionate about creating fun and unique on-campus experiences that make lasting impressions! IoB prides themselves on helping students identify brands that were created with them in mind while offering platforms that empower and foster community amongst our college audience. IoB's turnkey programs make college marketing easy and result in effective brand trial, engagement, and loyalty. IOB partners with Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) and key campus organizations to ensure that brand partners' products and messaging are shared with the right audience, at the right time. FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, please contact: Nicole Newsum / 6466423097 / [email protected] Michelle Pascal / [email protected] SOURCE African Pride NASHVILLE, Tenn., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- AkzoNobel (AKZA; AKZOY) presented sustainable paints and coatings solutions for green buildings at the International Greenbuild Conference in Washington, D.C. Program Manager of Sustainability at AkzoNobel, Job Coenen, shared architectural innovations for green buildings and the importance of circularity in a panel discussion with Director Sandra Onwijn from the Netherlands Ministry of Infrastructure and Water, Department for Circular Economy along with other Holland on the Hill members. AkzoNobel is a strategic global corporate advisory board member of the World Green Building Council and a member of various regional green building councils. AkzoNobel shares sustainable architectural solutions at the International Greenbuild conference Post this Job Coenen, AkzoNobels Program Manager for Sustainability, speaks at a Greenbuild session hosted by The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, on the Dutchs approach to sustainability. AkzoNobel coatings protect the Uber HQ in San Francisco, California. A Market Research report, states that North America leads the global green building material market. The increasing adoption of green building codes and standards aids the construction industry in reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable practices within the region. These green building standards have helped meet the growing demand for sustainable structures by reducing the environmental impact of buildings. This increasing trend of ecological building in North America indicates that the emphasis has shifted from producing only aesthetically appealing structures to functional, sustainable, and cost-effective buildings. Many architects and specifiers looking for green building certifications find AkzoNobel's products helpful in improving indoor air quality and AkzoNobel provides low emission certificates. "Buildings are responsible for 38% of global carbon emissions, which makes the built environment one of the largest contributing sectors to climate change. Most of us also spend a large part of our daily lives inside buildings, so they impact our health. We supply a wide range of sustainable solutions that can help reduce the environmental footprint, contribute to the circular use of building materials and improve the well-being of people in buildings," explains Coenen. "We have developed coatings and finishes with a reduced carbon footprint. For example, our waterborne Wood Finishes for building products and cabinets, our Cool Chemistry Coil Coatings for metal roofing that provides a solution to heat island reduction and our long-term durable Powder Coatings to enhance the lifetime of buildings." AkzoNobel has developed a range of paints and coatings qualified for green building certifications based on the World Green Building Council's focus areas of climate action, health and well-being and circularity. AkzoNobel offers material transparency to its customers as they compare product options and assist customers in reducing their carbon footprint. The company provides environmental product declarations (EPDs) to verify the environmental performance of many of its products. In Europe, AkzoNobel launched its online energy savings calculator for all users of powder coatings so customers can instantly calculate the energy and carbon reductions they could achieve with the company's Interpon products. AkzoNobel provides detailed product carbon footprint data for the life cycle of its products in buildings as part of its SBTi approved target to reduce its footprint by 50% by 2030 and in its value chain, including scope 3 in alignment with the Paris Agreement. AkzoNobel is the first paints and coatings company to follow up on its commitment to set science-based sustainability targets by announcing carbon reduction targets for its full value chain and gain official validation from SBTi. AkzoNobel's durable products help customers lower costs and save resources by using less materials and reducing waste in its value chain. The company achieved an Ecovadis score of 82/100 points this year, focusing on its value chain engagement on sustainability. AkzoNobel is in the top 1% of all companies assessed by Ecovadis. AkzoNobel used its sustainable coatings solutions on important U.S. green buildings, contributing to LEED certifications. For example, the Uber Headquarters is in San Francisco, California, and is LEED Gold certified. AkzoNobel used its Interpon D3020 Powder Coatings on the 423,000 square foot building. Additionally, the company coated the 30 Hudson Yards building in New York City, which has 73 floors and is rated LEED Gold. AkzoNobel also coated the St. Regis Hotel in Chicago, Illinois, using its TRINAR TRI-Escent II liquid spray that offers remarkable resistance to exterior weathering helping the building withstand the windy Chicago weather and contributing to its LEED Silver certification. In North America, AkzoNobel uses Protective Coatings, Powder Coatings, Coil and Extrustion Coatings and Wood Finishes as integrated solutions for the construction sector. The cross collaboration of our business units is significant for the construction and infrastructure sectors as together, our businesses have solutions that support decarbonization. Read more about AkzoNobel's involvement in green buildings and its sustainability products and solutions here: https://www.akzonobel.com/en/about-us/sustainability-/making-buildings-greener. About AkzoNobel We supply the sustainable and innovative paints and coatings that our customers, communities and the environment are increasingly relying on. Our world class portfolio of brands including Dulux, International, Sikkens and Interpon is trusted by customers around the globe. We're active in more than 150 countries and have set our sights on becoming the global industry leader. It's what you'd expect from a pioneering paints company that's committed to science-based targets and is taking genuine action to address globally relevant challenges and protect future generations. SOURCE AkzoNobel FORT MYERS, Fla., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- All Hands and Hearts (AHAH ) remains steadfast in its commitment to the recovery of Florida communities impacted by Hurricane Ian, which struck one year ago today. Our dedicated team continues to provide essential assistance and support to the resilient residents who have faced the profound challenges left in the wake of this devastating disaster. Hurricane Ian's destructive Category 4 elements struck Florida's west coast near Fort Myers on September 28, unleashing its fury with 150 mph winds, a 12-foot storm surge and relentless rainfall. The aftermath included widespread power outages, damaged and destroyed infrastructure, overturned cars and boats and catastrophic flooding. Ian's impact equaled that of the fifth strongest hurricane to land in the United States. All Hands and Hearts is extending its Florida Hurricane Ian volunteer program to support affected communities. Post this AHAH immediately mobilized its volunteer-powered disaster relief model to assist affected communities. The relief program began in Port Charlotte, Florida, and subsequently moved to Fort Myers, where it continues to undertake various scopes of work to aid community members, including debris removal, muck and gut operations, mold sanitation, and hazardous tree removal, aiming to complete over 30 home repairs by early October. As we mark one year of Hurricane Ian relief efforts, Mike Ball, Chief Operating Officer of AHAH, emphasizes our continued commitment, stating, "We are here for the long haul. The need is still substantial, and our mission to support these communities remains unwavering. We urge your support with funding, volunteer participation and resources to help us continue making a meaningful impact." All Hands and Hearts's Florida Hurricane Ian Relief program has seen over 600 volunteers dedicating more than 30,000 hours, positively impacting the lives of over 400 individuals and families. To ensure a brighter future for those affected by Hurricane Ian, we have extended the program for an additional six months, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to these resilient communities. For more information on how to support AHAH's ongoing Hurricane Ian relief initiatives, please visit our website at www.allhandsandhearts.org or contact AHAH's Director of Marketing, Morgan Sydlowski, at [email protected] or +1 (978) 518-0489. Together, we can continue to make a profound difference in the lives of those affected by Hurricane Ian. SOURCE All Hands and Hearts BOND leads AlphaSense's latest fundraise, cementing AlphaSense's leadership in AI-driven market intelligence and fueling its investment in GenAI capabilities for enterprise customers NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- AlphaSense , the leading market intelligence and search platform, today announced its $150 million Series E financing round, led by BOND , and joined by existing investors including Alphabet's CapitalG, Viking Global Investors, and Goldman Sachs. The financing brings AlphaSense's valuation to $2.5 billion. "At BOND, we look for iconic technology companies that are shaping the future," said Jay Simons, General Partner at BOND. "With the ability to deliver the right insights and data to help businesses confidently make the everyday, strategic decisions that ultimately define their future, AlphaSense immediately struck us as a category creator emerging into one of those iconic companies that significantly advances how the business world works." The $150 million raise comes just months after a $100 million Series D investment led by Alphabet's CapitalG . The new capital will be used to expand AlphaSense's enterprise solution, deploying its market-leading AI search capabilities, purpose-built market intelligence and financial LLMs, and GenAI capabilitiesall within customers' private clouds. This expanded product offering empowers professionals to monitor and extract critical insights from internal and external content through secure, accurate, and best-in-class AI-powered search, summarization, and chat capabilities. BAM Elevate, the dedicated private investment team at Balyasny Asset Management, L.P. (BAM), has been a client of AlphaSense since 2015, and is a new investor in this round. Norman Chen, Partner at BAM Elevate, commented, "Today, we have over 150 investment professionals leveraging the AlphaSense platform to get insights and data points more rapidly and reliably. From our perspective, AlphaSense's AI and search technology has been incredibly powerful at surfacing the right information to help enhance our investment process at BAM - which is also why we invested in this latest round. We wholeheartedly believe in AlphaSense's growth and distinctive position in the industry and want to be an even greater part of its journey." BOND's investment reflects AlphaSense's strong revenue growth and the rapid adoption of its innovative AI and search capabilities by more than 4,000 enterprise customers, including the majority of the S&P 500, the world's largest banks, investment firms, and consultancies, and leading companies spanning every sector of the economy. For over a decade, AlphaSense has been transforming the research process for business and financial professionals with the latest innovations in AI and NLP technology, amassing data to continuously train its language models, while also building its vast collection of top-tier, trustworthy business content. The fundraise will also be used to grow its extensive collection of searchable business content and make strategic acquisitions that expand its platform capabilities and increase the value it delivers to customers. Since its April 2023 announcement of a $100M Series D addition led by CapitalG, AlphaSense has won a number of industry awards, including being named a Market and Competitive Intelligence leader by Forrester , a top 50 AI company by Forbes , and a Best Workplace in 2023 by Inc. "I couldn't be more excited about BOND's investment in AlphaSense," said Jack Kokko, CEO and Founder of AlphaSense. "The additional capital allows us to invest strategically, so we can continue to lead the generative AI revolution in our market, and deliver on our mission of helping businesses find the right data and insights to support more confident and agile decision-making. We are building the future of market intelligence, and we are proud to continue revolutionizing search for enterprise customers." About AlphaSense AlphaSense is a market intelligence and search platform used by the world's leading companies and financial institutions. Since 2011, our AI-based technology has helped professionals make smarter business decisions by delivering insights from an extensive universe of public and private contentincluding equity research, company filings, event transcripts, expert calls, news, trade journals, and clients' own research content. Headquartered in New York City, AlphaSense employs over 1,000 people across offices in the U.S., U.K., Finland, Germany, India, and Singapore. For more information, please visit www.alpha-sense.com . About BOND BOND is a global technology investment firm that supports visionary founders throughout their entire life cycle of innovation and growth. For more information, please visit www.bondcap.com . Media Contact: Remi Duhe Email: [email protected] SOURCE AlphaSense Tifphani White-King of Mazars to chair the Association's flagship women's health movement in New York City NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazars, a leading audit, tax and advisory firm in the US, and the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, today announced that Tifphani White-King, US National Tax Practice Leader for Mazars, will serve as the Centennial Chair of the 2023-2024 New York City Go Red for Women movement. In 2024, the American Heart Association will celebrate its 100th anniversary and Go Red for Women will celebrate 20 years of educating, empowering and inspiring women to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. For two decades, Go Red for Women has saved and improved women's lives by advancing equitable research and care, advocating for inclusive health policies, and raising awareness. "I am inspired to lead Go Red for Women during the movement's pivotal 20th anniversary because I am passionate about promoting greater health equity and improved outcomes for women throughout New York City, the country and the world. In this role, I will use my voice to amplify the message that we have the power to change the narrative, because women's heart health matters," said Tifphani. "I'm looking forward to working with the American Heart Association and utilizing the momentum of its centennial celebration to continue the advancement of fighting gender disparities in cardiovascular health and to ensure that every woman has the resources and support to live a long, heart-healthy life." "We are proud to see Tifphani White-King assume the role of Centennial Chair for the Go Red for Women movement, an initiative that closely aligns with Mazars' values," said Victor Wahba, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Mazars in the US. "Tifphani's leadership and dedication to championing health equity will undoubtedly generate positive change for women's cardiovascular health and we're excited to see all she can accomplish in this position." "We are thrilled to welcome Tifphani White-King as Centennial Chair," said Meg Gilmartin, Executive Director and Senior Vice President, American Heart Association, New York City. "Her experience and leadership in driving marketplace growth through strategic direction will make a notable impact on the lives of women who seek health and resource equity in our community, as well as the families that depend on them." Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the United States, claiming more lives each year than all forms of cancer combined. Heart disease and stroke continue to be among New York City women's greatest health threats. In the state of New York, heart disease is the number one cause of death, accounting for 32% of all deaths statewide in 2020. Go Red for Women's 2024 year of programming will feature a series of new and returning events all related to women's heart health and the American Heart Association's lengthy history of dynamic, trailblazing survivors. The American Heart Association's Centennial Celebration and Go Red for Women's 20th Anniversary will kick off officially in January. The events will all culminate at the annual Go Red for Women Experience at Chelsea Piers, Pier Sixty on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. The night will feature over 700 women's health advocates coming together to celebrate the many achievements the New York City Go Red for Women movement has accomplished over the year. Attendees will have the opportunity to rock their favorite red attire, mix and mingle with like-minded community members, dance to the beats of a renowned DJ, and interact with sponsors at the highly-anticipated health and wellness expo all in support of women's health. Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and in, New York City, locally sponsored by platform sponsors Northwell Health, Pfizer, Bettina Equities, Mazars USA LLP, and Life is Why sponsor White & Warren. For more information contact Kevin Stec at [email protected] or visit nycgored.heart.org. About Mazars in the US Mazars USA LLP is an independent member firm of Mazars Group, an international audit, tax and advisory organization with operations in over 95 countries. With roots going back to 1921 in the US, the firm has a significant national presence in strategic geographies, providing seamless access to 30,000+ professionals around the world. Our industry specialists deliver tailored services to a wide range of clients across sectors, including individuals, high-growth emerging companies, privately-owned businesses and large enterprises. For Media Inquiries: Beth More, Marketing Director, Mazars USA LLP, [email protected] About Go Red for Women The American Heart Association's signature initiative, Go Red for Women, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women's heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. While the majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. For 19 years, Go Red for Women has encouraged awareness. The movement harnesses the energy, passion, and power of women to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them tools they need to lead a heart healthy life. The Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters. For more information, please visit GoRedforWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721). About the American Heart Association The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public's health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. For Media Inquiries: Diego Ortiz Quintero, 201-572-5703, [email protected] Mark Hurley, 917-445-0207, [email protected] For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721) heart.org and stroke.org SOURCE MAZARS USA LLP LINCOLN, Neb., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ameritas retirement plans has announced a new pooled employer plan (PEP) for organizations sponsoring ERISA 403(b) plans, giving the underserved nonprofit retirement plan market an option that is usually reserved for large companies. The 403(b) PEP is a retirement plan where instead of a nonprofit sponsoring their own plan, they can become an adopting employer. This removes many burdens for nonprofits, allowing them focus on their mission. Ameritas reveals new 403(b) retirement plan, giving nonprofits a new option. Post this "Ameritas is a service-minded company, with performance being one of our leading values," said Jim Kais, executive vice president, retirement plans, at Ameritas. "The 403(b) PEP aligns with our goal of fulfilling lives because we can do the heavy lifting for nonprofits, giving a retirement plan option while they do what they do best." The 403(b) PEP from Ameritas retirement plans offers an integrated platform supporting fiduciary oversight, compliance, administration, reporting and flexible investment strategieswith automated engagement tools. Ameritas will serve as the recordkeeper, LeafHouse as the 3(38) investment fiduciary and FiduciaryxChange as the pooled plan provider. "Not only does Ameritas provide the technology, service and recordkeeping expertise designed for the PEPs, but we also provide sales and onboarding support and adopting employers who entrust us with their 401(k) and now 403(b) plans," said Scott Holechek, second vice president, institutional sales, retirement plans. For more information about the 403(b) PEP or any other pooled employer plans, visit mypepconnection.com/americas403b. About Ameritas Ameritas is a marketing name for Ameritas Mutual Holding Company and its affiliated subsidiary companies, including Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York. Founded in 1887, Ameritas offers a wide range of insurance and financial products and services to individuals, families and businesses. These products and services include life insurance; annuities; individual disability income insurance; group dental, vision and hearing care insurance; and retirement plans. For more information, visit ameritas.com. Contact: Derek Rayment, Sr. Media Relations Specialist Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. Phone: 402-467-7850 [email protected] SOURCE Ameritas - Aramco agrees to acquire a strategic minority stake in MidOcean Energy for $500m, with option to increase size of shareholding - Strategic partnership enables Aramco to tap into international LNG opportunities DHAHRAN, Saudi Arabia, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Aramco, one of the world's leading integrated energy and chemicals companies, has signed definitive agreements to acquire a strategic minority stake in MidOcean Energy for $500 million. MidOcean Energy is a liquefied natural gas (LNG) company formed and managed by EIG, a leading institutional investor in the global energy and infrastructure sectors. MidOcean Energy is currently in the process of acquiring interests in four Australian LNG projects, with a growth strategy to create a diversified global LNG business. The strategic partnership with MidOcean Energy marks Aramco's first international investment in LNG. The agreement builds on the relationship between Aramco and EIG, which was part of a consortium that acquired a 49% stake in Aramco Oil Pipelines Company, a subsidiary of Aramco, in 2021. Completion of the transaction is subject to closing conditions which include regulatory approvals. Aramco also has the option to increase its shareholding and associated rights in MidOcean Energy in the future. Amin H. Nasser, Aramco President & CEO, said: "We are pleased to be strengthening our strategic partnership with EIG through this acquisition, which marks Aramco's first international investment in LNG. We anticipate strong demand-led growth for LNG as the world continues on its energy transition journey, with gas being a vital fuel and feedstock in various industries. We believe that gas will be important in meeting the world's rising need for secure, accessible and more sustainable energy." Nasir K. Al-Naimi, Aramco Upstream President, said: "This is an important step in Aramco's strategy to become a leading global LNG player. We see significant opportunities in this market, which is positioned for structural, long-term growth. MidOcean Energy is well-equipped to capitalize on rising LNG demand, and this strategic partnership reflects our willingness to work with leading international players to identify and unlock new opportunities at a global level." Blair Thomas, EIG Chairman and CEO, said: "Energy transition informs every investment decision we make, and we believe LNG has a key role to play in enabling an orderly transition that balances society's twin goals of decarbonization and energy security. Concurrent with that, we believe the LNG industry is ripe for change and there is a role for a nimble, pure-play company like MidOcean Energy. While our initial focus is on the announced transactions in Australia, we believe the opportunity set is global. We are excited to expand our existing partnership with Aramco to include this important initiative." De la Rey Venter, MidOcean Energy CEO, said: "It is an honor for MidOcean Energy to have Aramco as a key shareholder and strategic partner. We share the conviction that LNG is an integral enabler of the global energy transition, and we believe that the global LNG industry has strong fundamentals for many decades to come. Synergistic partnerships are core to how MidOcean Energy will do business, grow and thrive. In Aramco, we have a partner that has long-term thinking in its DNA and an unwavering commitment to enduring collaborations. We look forward to pursuing many new opportunities together." Aramco Contact Information Twitter: Aramco About Aramco Aramco is a global integrated energy and chemicals company. We are driven by our core belief that energy is opportunity. From producing approximately one in every eight barrels of the world's oil supply to developing new energy technologies, our global team is dedicated to creating impact in all that we do. We focus on making our resources more dependable, more sustainable and more useful. This helps promote stability and long-term growth around the world. www.aramco.com About EIG EIG is a leading institutional investor in the global energy and infrastructure sectors with $22.9 billion under management as of June 30, 2023. EIG specializes in private investments in energy and energy-related infrastructure on a global basis. During its 41-year history, EIG has committed over $45.0 billion to the energy sector through over 400 projects or companies in 42 countries on six continents. EIG's clients include many of the leading pension plans, insurance companies, endowments, foundations and sovereign wealth funds in the U.S., Asia and Europe. EIG is headquartered in Washington, D.C. with offices in Houston, London, Sydney, Rio de Janeiro, Hong Kong and Seoul. About MidOcean Energy MidOcean Energy is an LNG company formed and managed by EIG seeking to build a diversified, resilient, cost and carbon competitive LNG portfolio. It reflects EIG's belief in LNG as a critical enabler of the energy transition and the growing importance of LNG as a geopolitically strategic energy resource. MidOcean Energy is headed by De la Rey Venter, a 25-year industry veteran who held a variety of senior executive roles including Global Head of LNG for Shell Plc. For additional information, please visit EIG's website at www.eigpartners.com or MidOcean Energy's website at www.midoceanenergy.com. Disclaimer The press release contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements relating to historical or current facts included in the press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements give the Company's current expectations and projections relating to its capital expenditures and investments, major projects, upstream performance, including relative to peers, and growth in downstream and chemicals. These statements may include, without limitation, any statements preceded by, followed by or including words such as "target," "believe," "expect," "aim," "intend," "may," "anticipate," "estimate," "plan," "project," "will," "can have," "likely," "should," "would," "could," "continue," "forward" and other words and terms of similar meaning or the negative thereof. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors beyond the Company's control that could cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the expected results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including the following factors: international crude oil supply and demand and the prices at which Aramco sells crude oil; the impact of COVID-19 on business and economic conditions and on supply and demand for crude oil, gas and refined and petrochemical products; adverse economic or political developments that could impact the Company's results of operations; competitive pressures faced by the Company; any significant deviation or changes in existing economic and operating conditions that could affect the estimated quantity and value of proved reserves; operational risks and hazards in the oil and gas, refining and petrochemicals industries; the cyclical nature of the oil and gas, refining and petrochemical industries; weather conditions; political and social instability and unrest and actual or potential armed conflicts in the regions in which Aramco operates and other areas; losses from risks related to insufficient insurance; the Company's ability to deliver on current and future projects; litigation to which the Company is or may be subject; the Company's ability to realize benefits from recent and future acquisitions, including with respect to SABIC; risks related to international operations, including sanctions and trade restrictions, anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws and other laws and regulations; risks related to oil, gas, environmental, health and safety and other regulations that impact the industries in which Aramco operates; the Company's dependence on its senior management and key personnel; the reliability and security of the Company's IT systems; climate change concerns and impacts; risks related to Government-directed projects and other Government requirements, including those related to Government-set maximum level of crude oil production and target MSC; fluctuations in interest rates and foreign exchange rates; and other risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from the forward looking statements in this press release, as set forth in the Company's latest periodic reports filed with the Tadawul. For additional information on the potential risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from the results predicted please see the Company's latest periodic reports filed with the Tadawul. Such forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions regarding the Company's present and future business strategies and the environment in which it will operate in the future. The information contained in the press release, including but not limited to forward-looking statements, applies only as of the date of this press release and is not intended to give any assurances as to future results. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to the press release, including any financial data or forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable law or regulation. No person should construe the press release as financial, tax or investment advice. Undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements. SOURCE Aramco FORT COLLINS, Colo., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Armis Biopharma, Inc. announced today that the company received a $20.3 million contract from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) to develop its proprietary Veriox DECON chemical warfare agent (CWA) decontamination product for use in battlefield wounds. This will be an important product for warfighters who may be exposed to chemical warfare agents when wounded as the technology could have the potential to help save lives and extend the opportunity to provide an appropriate level of care to the severely injured. The May 2023 edition of the DTRA JSTO publication, "JSTO in the News" included the article, "Beyond a Bandage," that explains the significance of the Veriox DECON technology for military personnel. The Armis Veriox technology (Veriox DECON) was found to be effective in neutralizing chemical warfare agents in two separate studies conducted by the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense (USAMRICD). "We are excited for the opportunity to bring a new technology to decontaminate chemical warfare agents for application in both civilian and military markets. Our unique proprietary solution, Veriox DECON, offers several advantages over existing decontamination products for both individual application and for mass casualty settings because it can be rapidly dispensed with standard liquid dispensing systems that will allow first responders to quickly decontaminate multiple individuals," said Ted Ziemann, Chairman and CEO of Armis Biopharma. "Veriox DECON is also environmentally safe in that it breaks down rapidly into harmless products and demonstrates a better safety profile than competitive products." In November 2020, Armis Biopharma received a grant from the National Institutes of Health to develop Veriox DECON to provide first responders working on mass-casualty decontamination, an effective, cost-efficient, fast application to neutralize chemical warfare agents on skin. Work on that application is currently in progress. In addition to nerve agent decontamination, Veriox DECON is also a highly effective antimicrobial agent, having shown excellent efficacy against biological warfare agents (BWAs) and drug resistant pathogens and has also been successfully tested against fentanyl. About Armis Biopharma Armis Biopharma, Inc is a privately held biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Fort Collins, CO that is devoted to developing and commercializing products that are effective in reducing the risk of infectious disease, decontaminating chemical warfare agents, and providing differentiated medical devices. Product development is focused on surface disinfection, human and animal wound care, oral care, food safety, and decontaminating chemical and biological warfare agents. Armis introduced its first antimicrobial surface disinfectant called ArmiClenz in June 2020, its FDA cleared VeriFixx Small Bone Implant in November 2020, ArmiCare hand sanitizer in 2021, ArmiVET Animal Wound Wash in 2021, ArmiGard cleanser for oral devices in 2022, and most recently its FDA cleared VeriCyn wound wash in May 2023. More pipeline products will follow starting in 2024. For more information about Armis, please visit www.armisbiopharma.com. General questions should be addressed to [email protected]. Media contact: Karen Dombek [email protected] SOURCE Armis Biopharma Atera AI enables IT departments to 10X efficiencies, delivering unprecedented impact across entire organizations. TEL AVIV, Israel, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Atera , the cloud-based all-in-one remote monitoring and management (RMM) and Helpdesk, Ticketing, and Reporting platform for IT teams, today announced the launch of its new deep fusion with Microsoft Azure Open AI. The debut of this AI suite creates a new category in IT artificial intelligence-powered IT, or "AIT" that empowers IT teams to reach 10X operational efficiency, reduce time-to-resolution, and deliver better outcomes faster. This means that IT teams can now reduce response times from 1 hour to 3 seconds and improve average time-to-resolution from 4 hours to 10 minutes. The new category was developed in partnership with Microsoft and made possible through a fusion with its Azure OpenAI Service, which enables customers to tap into the power of large-scale generative AI models. Through the integration with Azure OpenAI, customers gain access to cloud and computing infrastructure-security, reliability, compliance, data privacy, and built-in responsible AI capabilities. "The impact that AI-powered IT has on the IT industry cannot be overstated," said Gil Pekelman, CEO of Atera. "Technicians can now focus on more high-value work. Before unveiling our AI suite, our platform helped to cut the amount of time those technicians spent managing IT by up to 50 percent. But since integrating Azure OpenAI into our platform, we have seen even more improvements on operational efficiency up to 10 times the number of tickets are solved in a day." AI-powered IT completely revamps the archaic, time-consuming processes that IT professionals are used to dealing with daily. AI-powered IT can be used to resolve up to 50 percent of tickets before they even reach a technician as they empower end users to fix common problems independently, like password resets and blue screens. Atera's AI deep integration supercharges every part of an IT team's and IT professional's daily tasks, ranging from automated ticket summaries and auto-generated responses to users, to AI-suggested solutions, intelligent insights, and scripts to run automations. The innovative platform sorts through billions of data points to give IT professionals the best possible solutions for their issues within only seconds. "We live in an era where artificial intelligence technology can transform complex operations into simple processes," said Avi Yoshi, VP Technology at Microsoft. "Now we are thrilled to see companies like Atera use newly introduced capabilities, thanks to Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, to empower employees to handle daily tasks and challenges more efficiently. We are pleased to partner with Atera to further empower IT professionals in their daily operations with generative AI capabilities using Azure." Microsoft introduced Azure OpenAI Service to allow organizations to tap into the power of the world's most cutting-edge AI models backed by the enterprise capabilities of Azure. Atera was one of the few partners who accelerated quickly, going from ideation to-go-market with its Azure OpenAI Service integration in less than two weeks at the beginning of 2023. To kick off the launch of Atera's AI suite and introduce the industry to AIT, Atera and Pekelman are setting off on a world tour in partnership with Microsoft. From October 10 through 22, Atera and Microsoft will visit tech hubs in London, Paris and Munich, then will travel across the pond to the United States, where they will be stopping in New York, Miami, Houston, and Los Angeles. For more information on how to get an up close and personal look at AIT in action, visit https://www.atera.com/ai-unveiled/. Atera is the leader of AI-powered IT. The company has raised over $100 million from notable investors such as General Atlantic and K1 Investment Management, and has an impressive client roster including Remax, JD Sports, the American Automobile Association, and more. For more information on AIT or Atera and its integration with Microsoft Azure Open AI Service, visit atera.com . About Atera Atera is the developer of the first AI-powered IT platform, which includes Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM), Helpdesk, Ticketing, and Reporting platform currently on the market. With more than 11,000 customers in over 105 countries, Atera's intuitive all-in-one platform offers IT professionals and businesses improved operational efficiency, seamless integrations, and end-to-end real-time visibility across multiple systems at industry-disruptive pricing. Atera's platform empowers IT teams of all sizes to maximize efficiency and drive growth and improvements while transforming to a streamlined remote work environment by analyzing over 60,000 data points per second, 24/7. To learn more, visit atera.com. SOURCE Atera DALLAS, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ATI (NYSE: ATI) will provide live internet listening access to its conference call with the financial community scheduled for Thursday, November 2, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. CT (10:30 a.m. ET). The conference call will be conducted after the Company's planned release of third quarter results. The conference call will be broadcast, and accompanying presentation slides will be available, at ATImaterials.com. To access the broadcast, visit ATImaterials.com and select "Conference Call." Conference call replay will be available on ATImaterials.com. ATI: Proven to Perform. ATI (NYSE: ATI) is a global producer of high performance materials and solutions for the global aerospace and defense markets, and critical applications in electronics, medical and specialty energy. We're solving the world's most difficult challenges through materials science. We partner with our customers to deliver extraordinary materials that enable their greatest achievements: their products fly higher and faster, burn hotter, dive deeper, stand stronger and last longer. Our proprietary process technologies, unique customer partnerships and commitment to innovation deliver materials and solutions for today and the evermore challenging environments of tomorrow. We are proven to perform anywhere. Learn more at ATImaterials.com. SOURCE ATI US Deputy Secretary of Energy Andrew Light speaks during a ceremony of signing a design agreement for Poland's first nuclear power plant in Warsaw, Poland, 27 September 2023. Polish and U.S. officials signed an agreement Wednesday in Warsaw to move forward with the construction of Polands first nuclear power plant as part of an effort by the Central European nation to move away from polluting fossil fuels. Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki called the deal to build the plant at the Lubiatowo-Kopalino site in the Pomerania region near the Baltic Sea the beginning of a new chapter for Poland, and described nuclear energy as a stable and clean energy source. The only clean, stable energy source that is technologically proven and verified in terms of safety is nuclear energy, which is having its big day today, he said at the ceremony. Morawieckis government had announced last year that it had chosen the U.S. as its partner for the project. A consortium made up of Westinghouse and Bechtel signed the agreement with the Polish state-owned utility overseeing the nuclear program, Polskie Elektrownie Jadrowe (PEJ). The planned site is about 280 kilometers (175 miles) from the border with Germany, which shut its last remaining nuclear reactors in April. Last year, the four German states closest to Poland said they were opposed to the Polish plan. Many environmentalists traditionally oppose nuclear energy, and in Poland some argue that the initial cost is so high and that it takes so long to develop that it makes more sense to invest in renewable energies. Still, opposition in Poland to the plan has not been high. Even the Greens party is divided on the matter. That is a reflection of how fears of climate change have persuaded some environmentalists around the world to embrace nuclear power as a solution, because it doesnt involve the burning of fossil fuels. Poland is planning to spend $40 billion to build two nuclear power plants with three reactors each, the last one to be launched in 2043. The deal with the U.S. is for the first three reactors of the Pomerania plant, which officials say should start producing electricity in 2033. Poland has also signed agreements with South Korea for the construction of a second nuclear power plant as it moves forward with its nuclear energy plans. Poland has planned for decades to build nuclear power plants to replace its aging coal-fired plants in a country with some of the worst air pollution in Europe. Russias invasion of Ukraine and its use of energy to put economic and political pressure on European nations added urgency to Polands search for alternative energy sources. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition DALLAS, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Name principals Brad Caldwell, Jason Cassady, and Austin Curry from the Dallas intellectual property and business litigation firm Caldwell Cassady & Curry are receiving praise for their work in high-stakes intellectual property trials of the annual Texas Super Lawyers list. Mr. Caldwell, Mr. Cassady, and Mr. Curry have been recognized on the Super Lawyers list of the top attorneys in Texas for years based on their work in patent disputes and other intellectual property cases. This spring, seven attorneys from Caldwell, Cassady & Curry were named on the companion 2023 Texas Super Lawyers Rising Stars list for their work in intellectual property trials. The Super Lawyers list published by Thomson Reuters is based on nominations submitted by attorneys across Texas and rigorous research conducted by the list's editors. The final list of honorees includes fewer than 5 percent of Texas attorneys. Last month, the three name principals from Caldwell Cassady & Curry once again were included in The Best Lawyers in America for their intellectual property expertise. They were similarly recognized a month earlier in the IAM Patent 1000 rankings of the country's leading patent litigators. Caldwell Cassady & Curry is one of the top trial firms in the nation, with more than $2.5 billion in verdicts, judgments, and court-approved settlements in the past decade, which includes seven consecutive winning verdicts against technology giant Apple Inc. Most recently, Caldwell Cassady & Curry won a $1.68 million patent infringement verdict against consumer electronics giant LG Electronics for infringing four patents owned by the firm's client. The jury's decision represents $6.75 per unit for each infringing product sold by LG Electronics through the day of the verdict for infringing patented technology that covers critical elements of the emerging ATSC3.0 (NextGen TV) standard for television broadcasts. Caldwell Cassady & Curry represents companies and individuals in high-stakes civil litigation, including patent infringement cases, trade secrets claims, fiduciary duty cases, class actions, and disputes involving company founders. The firm has tried and won some of the nation's top verdicts against the largest companies in the world. Learn more about the firm at www.caldwellcc.com. For more information, contact Bruce Vincent at 214-763-6226 or [email protected]. SOURCE Caldwell Cassady & Curry The Government of The Bahamas and the Saudi Fund for Development are also continuing talks on additional funding to include North Eleuthera's airport infrastructure in the next tranche. This is subject to airport inspections by SFD due to take place in early October. According to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation the Honourable I. Chester Cooper, "Today's signing marks a significant milestone in advancing the phased development of targeted airports as part of the Government's Family Islands Airport Renaissance Project, and further solidifies our relationship with The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia." According to CEO of The Saudi Fund for Development Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, "SFDs latest development loan agreement with The Bahamas will play a major role in enhancing the capabilities and renaissance of the nation's Family Island airports. We look forward to working closely with the country's government to ensure timely delivery. We believe that once completed, the project will benefit the economy and bring about prosperity for all the friendly people of The Bahamas." The Bahamas government has outlined its priorities in the Family Island Airport Renaissance Project as Exuma, Grand Bahama, North Eleuthera, Cat Island, Long Island and Black Point, with additional airports to be completed in the next tranche. With over 700 islands and cays, and 16 unique island destinations, The Bahamas lies just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, offering an easy flyaway escape that transports travellers away from their everyday. The Islands of The Bahamas have world-class fishing, diving, boating and thousands of miles of the earth's most spectacular water and beaches waiting for families, couples and adventurers. Explore all the islands have to offer at www.bahamas.com or on Facebook, YouTube or Instagram to see why It's Better in The Bahamas. PRESS INQUIRIES Dr. Kenneth Romer Director of Aviation Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation [email protected] SOURCE The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bailey & Glasser, LLP, on behalf of a class of consumers who were charged illegal fees just for paying their mortgages over the phone, won a significant summary judgment victory in a class action before a federal district court in Houston, Texas. The lawsuit against Lakeview Loan Servicing and LoanCare, LLC alleges that they charged FHA mortgage borrowers illegal "Pay-to-Pay" fees, extra charges of up to $12 for processing monthly payments by phone. James Kauffman, Partner, Bailey & Glasser, LLP Elizabeth Ryan, Partner, Bailey & Glasser, LLP The Bailey Glasser team, led by partners James Kauffman and Elizabeth Ryan, originally brought this case in May 2020, asserting that the collection of Pay-to-Pay junk fees violated the Texas Debt Collection Act (TDCA). In Tuesday's ruling, the federal district court approved the award of summary judgment against Lakeview and LoanCare, and adopted a magistrate judge's finding that the Pay-to-Pay fees were not authorized by any of the borrowers' loan agreements or permitted by law. Additionally, the District Court appeared to take issue with the defendants' shotgun objections to the Magistrate Judge's report by stating: "[i]t isn't enough to dump a multifarious collection of issues on the district court, that essentially says, 'Here, you figure it out.'" "This case is a big win for American consumers who struggle enough without being nickel-and-dimed by illegal junk fees," said lead counsel James Kauffman. "These kinds of fees are unlawful, and we will continue to fight across the country to protect consumers from companies taking advantage of them." During this litigation, Lakeview and LoanCare waffled on any long-term commitment to stop charging "Pay-to-Pay" fees, but they contended that no injunction was necessary because they voluntarily stopped collecting the fees. However, the Court's ruling that Lakeview and LoanCare violated the TDCA will allow the plaintiffs to obtain a permanent injunction that will prevent the companies from ever collecting these fees again in Texas. Other members of the Bailey Glasser team consisted of Contingency Practice Area Leader Jonathan Marshall, Consumer Litigation Practice Group Leader Patricia Kipnis, attorney Denali Hedrick, and paralegals Mary McClay and Vanessa Pierre. Co-counsel for the plaintiffs includes Randy Pulliam and Lee Lowther of Carney Bates & Pulliam in Little Rock, Arkansas, and Fred Hagans of Hagans Montgomery Hagans in Houston, Texas. The opinion is Williams v. Lakeview Loan Services, LLC, et al, Case No. 20-1900, and a copy of the District Court's published opinion may be found here, and the Magistrate's Ruling here. For more information, contact: James Kauffman, Bailey & Glasser, LLP, 202.463.2101, [email protected] SOURCE BAILEY & GLASSER, LLP MONTREAL, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - BCE Inc. (TSX: BCE) (NYSE: BCE) will hold its third-quarter 2023 results conference call with the financial community on Thursday, November 2, 2023 at 8:00 am eastern. Participants will include Mirko Bibic, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Curtis Millen, Chief Financial Officer. Media are welcome to participate on a listen-only basis. To participate, please dial toll-free 1-844-933-2401 or 647-724-5455. A replay will be available until midnight on November 30, 2023 by dialing 1-844-933-2401 or 647-724-5455 and entering passcode 9522322#. A live audio webcast of the conference call will be available on BCE's website at BCE Q3-2023 conference call. About BCE BCE is Canada's largest communications company,1 providing advanced Bell broadband wireless, Internet, TV, media and business communications services. To learn more, please visit Bell.ca or BCE.ca. Through Bell for Better, we are investing to create a better today and a better tomorrow by supporting the social and economic prosperity of our communities. This includes the Bell Let's Talk initiative, which promotes Canadian mental health with national awareness and anti-stigma campaigns like Bell Let's Talk Day and significant Bell funding of community care and access, research and workplace initiatives throughout the country. To learn more, please visit Bell.ca/LetsTalk. _________________________ 1 Based on total revenue and total combined customer connections Media inquiries: Ellen Murphy [email protected] Investor inquiries: Thane Fotopoulos 514-870-4619 [email protected] SOURCE BCE Inc. BEIJING, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Mid-Autumn Festival, a traditional Chinese festival dating back to ancient times, is themed on family reunion. It falls on the 15th day of the eighth month on the Chinese lunar calendar, which this year is September 29. Whenever possible, Chinese people will reunite with family members, appreciate the full moon and enjoy mooncakes, round pastries that are a special treat for the celebration, on the day of the festival. The full moon is a symbol of reunion and harmony for Chinese people. The foundation of the world lies in the nation, and the foundation of the nation lies in the family. The Mid-Autumn Festival and the Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, which is celebrated somewhere between late January and mid-February, are the two major festivals for family reunion in China, as well as times for families to show their commitment to shared values. When attending a Spring Festival reception in February 2018, Chinese President Xi Jinping offered a quote in his speech: "The foundation of the world lies in the nation, and the foundation of the nation lies in the family." The quote was chosen from The Book of Mencius, a collection of conversations and anecdotes from the Chinese Confucian philosopher Mencius (372-289 B.C.). It underlines the role of the family in underpinning good governance and social stability. Family bonds have always been highly valued by the Chinese people. Parents' love for children, children's filial piety and respect for parents, as well as love between siblings are considered fundamental for one to be a benevolent person. The Chinese consider their sense of belonging to the country to be similar to their sense of belonging to their family. They believe that the future of a family is closely connected with that of the nation, and integrate their love for their family with that for the country. China's history is filled with stories about instilling family values. Zhuge Liang (181-234), an eminent strategist in the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280), famously told his son, "Cultivate your character by keeping a peaceful mind and nourish your morality by practicing economy." The mother of Song Dynasty (960-1279) general Yue Fei (1103-42) tattooed four Chinese characters translating to "serve the country with the utmost loyalty" on her son's back. The family motto of Zhu Yongchun (also known as Zhu Bailu)(1627-98), a Confucian scholar in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), stated, "Always cherish the fruits of hard work." These are some examples that illustrate how the Chinese educate their offspring through words and deeds, a practice considered a traditional virtue. For thousands of years, the Chinese nation has weathered hardships and remained on its feet. It has never yielded and has emerged stronger each time. This resilience can be attributed to the love for the family and the country captured in the Chinese traditions. During the 2001 Spring Festival, Xi, then Governor of Fujian Province, was not able to visit his parents in Beijing. When learning Xi was unable to do so because he was occupied by official business during a phone call, Xi's mother told him, "Getting your job done is the greatest token of filial piety. It is about being responsible toward the family and yourself." The formative influence of his parents partly explains why Xi attaches great importance to the role of the family in promoting solid national governance. He emphasized at the 2018 Spring Festival reception, "We should nurture and practice core socialist values, carry forward the traditional virtues of the Chinese nation, love both our family and our country, and integrate personal and family dreams with the dreams of the nation." China is pursuing Chinese modernization, which is the modernization of a large population, of common prosperity for all, of material and cultural-ethical advancement, of harmony between humans and nature, and of peaceful development. On the journey, many families together make up the bedrock of China's development, the nation's progress and its social harmony. They are pooling power to realize the Chinese dream of national rejuvenation. Comments to [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BJReview/videos/326242883101707/ Twitter(X): https://twitter.com/BeijingReview/status/1707002151682429362 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=06uBkogp7s4 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cachinachic/video/7281126275874426143 Website: https://www.bjreview.com/Multimedia/Video/Ancient_Wisdom_Upgraded_Interpretation/202309/t20230907_800341566.html SOURCE Beijing Review ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Bio-Process Systems Alliance (BPSA) has submitted comments in response to the European Chemical Agency's (ECHA) proposed ban on per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). In February, ECHA announced its proposed restriction on PFASs, a unique family of nearly 10,000 substances, including fluoropolymers, under the European Union's Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation which addresses the production and use of certain chemical substances, and their potential impacts on human health and the environment. PFAS are used extensively across multiple industries, including bioprocessing, due to their unique functional properties and low reactivity. This restriction proposes a universal ban over time on the use of all fluoropolymers in all applications, without distinguishing between fluoropolymers and other PFAS substances. Fluoropolymers, including PTFE and PVDF, are some of the most common PFAS types understood to be used in the bioprocess industry, considered as polymers of low concern by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, and deemed to have insignificant environmental and human health impacts. In its response to ECHA, BPSA requested that pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical processing, including its supporting supply chain, be regarded as a sector, and permitted the same exemption, or unlimited derogation, as medicinal products. "BPSA maintains a commitment to sustainability and fully supports efforts to minimize and mitigate the presence of substances which pose a threat to human health and the environment. However, the proposed broad restriction of PFAS covering fluoropolymers would have unintended consequences on the global manufacturing of biopharmaceutical products ultimately impacting availability of existing medicinal therapies, including vaccines, as well as the development of new therapies," said BPSA Executive Director, Chris Clark. "Let's find solutions that better balance the environmental and health concerns with the needs of patients, consumers and the bioprocessing industry." BPSA is committed to working collaboratively to ensure any proposed restrictions consider the unique challenges of the bioprocessing industry and the needs of patients and consumers. We urge ECHA to reconsider its proposed restriction based on the available scientific data and risk assessments regarding PFAS substances, including fluoropolymers, used in bioprocessing. BPSA also supports the positions of the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations, BioPhorum, the European Sealing Association, the American Chemistry Council, and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Biopharmaceutical Process Equipment sector. The Bio-Process Systems Alliance (BPSA) was formed in 2005 as an industry-led international industry association dedicated to encouraging and accelerating the adoption of single-use manufacturing technologies used in the production of biopharmaceuticals and vaccines. www.bpsalliance.org . SOURCE Bio-Process Systems Alliance (BPSA) The retailer's annual Give Pink, Get More campaign will benefit its two long-standing partners, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and the Tutu Project NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bloomingdale's today announces AQUA x Kerri Rosenthal, a special collection that serves as an addition to its annual Pink Campaign. The continuation of the retailer's Give Pink, Get More initiative reinforces its long standing commitment to supporting breast cancer awareness. Over the past 18 years, Bloomingdale's has raised over $17 million for both the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) and the Tutu Project. Bloomingdale's Announces Annual Pink Campaign With the Launch of it's AQUA x Kerri Rosenthal Collection The 46- piece AQUA x Kerri Rosenthal collection consists of a range of women's and girl's ready-to-wear, seasonal accessories, and home goods inspired by a painting Kerri created exclusively for Bloomingdale's in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness. Kerri's daughter, Ali was diagnosed with breast cancer in the fall of 2022, making this collaboration and her personal connection to the cause even more special and sentimental. Now through 10/31, Bloomingdale's will donate 10% of the purchase price of each piece of the collection to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (up to $25k). The original artwork, featuring the artist's signature whimsy mood boosting prints, stripes, hearts, and more, will also be up for auction online through 10/12 to benefit Pink Aid. "After the success of the previous Kerri Rosenthal collection, we are thrilled to be partnering with Kerri on another collaboration with such a meaningful connection," said Frank Berman, EVP, Chief Marketing Officer at Bloomingdale's. "The programming for our annual Give Pink, Get More campaign supports two incredible organizations that we've had the privilege of supporting for so many years, BCRF and the Tutu Project. We are honored to now layer in yet another element to the activity this season with the launch of AQUA X Kerri Rosenthal." Additional events and activities span stores across the U.S., and online, including: Give Pink, Get More: Happening in-store and online through October 31 , shoppers can give back by charging a $15 enrollment fee on their Bloomingdale's Credit Card- 100% of which will benefit BCRF and the Tutu Project. From 9/22-10/31, card holders will earn $25 in rewards for every $250 spent on eligible purchases using their Bloomingdale's credit card. Shoppers who enroll in-store will also receive a limited edition tote. Happening in-store and online through , shoppers can give back by charging a enrollment fee on their Credit Card- 100% of which will benefit BCRF and the Tutu Project. From 9/22-10/31, card holders will earn in rewards for every spent on eligible purchases using their credit card. Shoppers who enroll in-store will also receive a limited edition tote. PINK Yoga : On October 14 , select stores will be hosting PINK Yoga and an after party with On Running featuring breakfast bites, sips, and special gifting opportunities. The 59th st store workout lead by yoga-instructor and breast cancer survivor, Sarah Strimmel from Damn Good Yoga will also be broadcasted live on Bloomingdale's On Screen; and attended by founders of the Tutu Project, Bob and Linda Carey . The $15 reservation fee for in-store events will benefit The Breast Cancer Research Foundation and The Tutu Project, and participants will take home a pink yoga mat. Reservations for the in-person events can be made HERE . : On , select stores will be hosting PINK Yoga and an after party with On Running featuring breakfast bites, sips, and special gifting opportunities. The 59th st store workout lead by yoga-instructor and breast cancer survivor, Sarah Strimmel from Damn Good Yoga will also be broadcasted live on On Screen; and attended by founders of the Tutu Project, . The reservation fee for in-store events will benefit The Breast Cancer Research Foundation and The Tutu Project, and participants will take home a pink yoga mat. Reservations for the in-person events can be made . PINK Parties: On October 14 from 11am - 2pm , stores across the country will be throwing their Annual Pink Party in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Shoppers can buy Kerri Rosenthal's AQUA Collection, sign up for Give Pink Get More to take part in an interactive art installation, enjoy DJ beats and stop by our favorite beauty counters for pink themed touch ups! On from , stores across the country will be throwing their Annual Pink Party in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Shoppers can buy AQUA Collection, sign up for Give Pink Get More to take part in an interactive art installation, enjoy DJ beats and stop by our favorite beauty counters for pink themed touch ups! Kerri x AQUA Art Animation: In-store customers will receive one of Kerri's signature painted hearts to write the name of someone they are "giving pink for" to be featured on an interactive visual installation. In-store customers will receive one of Kerri's signature painted hearts to write the name of someone they are "giving pink for" to be featured on an interactive visual installation. AQUA x Kerri Rosenthal On Screen Event: On October 5th , Kerri and her daughter Ali are hosting an On Screen event to speak about the collaboration with AQUA, the inspiration behind it, and their personal ties to Breast Cancer Awareness. Bloomingdale's Pink Philanthropic Partners: The Breast Cancer Research Foundation is the largest private funder of breast cancer research and metastatic breast cancer research worldwide and is the highest-rated breast cancer organization in the country. Through years of partnership, Bloomingdale's has provided funds to support BCRF's goals in identifying new targets and developing new treatments for those diagnosed with breast cancer. The Tutu Project , founded by Bob and Linda Carey, aims to bring cheer to breast cancer patients every day, through financial and emotional support. The fundraising campaign started with Bob Carey's famous tutu that has been photographed around the world, and featured within his book, TUTU. Most recently, Bob shot his iconic tutu photos throughout Bloomingdale's 59th Street Flagship. Additional information on the Bloomingdale's PINK Campaign can be found HERE , and information on local PINK Yoga and PINK Party events can be found on Eventbrite in select markets. Over the past 18 years Bloomingdale's campaigns and partnerships have raised over $17 million for breast cancer research. About Bloomingdale's Bloomingdale's is America's only nationwide, full-line, upscale department store. A division of Macy's, Inc. (NYSE: M), it currently operates 34 Bloomingdale's stores and 20 Bloomingdale's The Outlet stores, in California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Virginia, along with 1 Bloomie's location in Virginia. In addition, Bloomingdale's has an international presence with a location in Dubai. Founded in 1872, the iconic retailer is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. Be sure to follow @bloomingdales on social media, become a Loyallist, and for more information, or to shop any time, visit www.bloomingdales.com About b the change: As a company with a 150-year legacy, Bloomingdale's launched b the change as an actionable program designed to build a more equitable and sustainable future for its colleagues, customers, and community. Through its three pillars, b sustainable, b inclusive, and b the future, Bloomingdale's will continue to support philanthropic causes through campaigns, grants, fundraisers, volunteer opportunities and more. Partners include The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Tutu Project, Child Mind Institute, Donors Choose, No Kid Hungry, Thurgood Marshall College Fund, Bloomingdale's x FIT Sustainable Innovation Fund, and more. For more information on b the change, visit https://www.bloomingdales.com/c/b-the-change/ Press Contact bloomingdales@finnpartners.com SOURCE Bloomingdale's NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The business process management market size is expected to grow by USD 8.91 billion from 2022 to 2027. In addition, the growth momentum of the market will progress at a CAGR of 10.1% during the forecast period, according to Technavio. Increasing demand for process automation and digital transformation is notably driving the business process management market. However, factors such as Data security and privacy issues may impede market growth. The market is segmented by Deployment (On-premises and Cloud-based), End-user (BFSI, Government and defense, Healthcare, IT and telecommunication, and Retail), and Geography (North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America). We provide a detailed analysis of 20 companies operating in the business process management market, including Appian Corp., Bizagi Group Ltd., BONITASOFT SA, Compulink Management Center Inc., CREATIO EMEA Ltd., DXC Technology Co., FlowForma, Genpact Ltd., International Business Machines Corp., Kissflow Inc., Microsoft Corp., Newgen Software Technologies Ltd., Nintex Global Ltd., Open Text Corp., Oracle Corp., Pegasystems Inc., Salesforce Inc., Software AG, Thoma Bravo LP, and Vista Equity Partners Management LLC. The report offers an up-to-date analysis of the market, and to know the exact growth variance and the Y-O-Y growth rate, Request a Free Sample Report. Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Business Process Management Market 2023-2027 Business Process Management Market 2023-2027: Company Analysis Appian Corp: The company offers a business process automation solution, namely Appian Platform for process automation and process mining. This report provides a full list of key companies, their strategies, and the latest developments. Buy Now for detailed company information. Business Process Management Market 2023-2027: Segmentation Deployment The on-premises segment is significant during the forecast period. The segment experiences a surge in adoption, particularly among large enterprises. A pivotal driving force behind these escalating solutions is the capacity to confer unparalleled control and ownership over operations, processes, and the reservoir of data generated and housed within the ambit of business applications. Additionally, this heightened sense of control resonates strongly with enterprises seeking to uphold stringent governance and compliance standards. Furthermore, factors like the deployment of on-premise solutions are characterized by a one-time upfront cost, succeeded by subsequent monthly fees for managed services. Such cost dynamics, coupled with the overarching benefits of control and data ownership, underscore the appeal of the on-premise deployment model. Consequently, these compelling factors are poised for the growth of the on-premise segment, thereby propelling the expansion of the market throughout the forecast period. Geography North America will contribute 44% to the global market growth. The regional market growth can be attributed to an increase in the adoption of cloud computing services and the presence of several prominent companies in the region, such as IBM, Oracle, Appian, TIBCO Software, and Pega Systems. Telecommunication, manufacturing, healthcare, and retail are some of the major industries that are generating huge volumes of sensitive data. This, in turn, will fuel the need to integrate BPM solutions as well as advanced technologies such as analytics, to optimize the decision-making process while enhancing efficiency in business processes. Hence, such factors drive the regional market growth of the BPM market in North America during the forecast period. Learn about the contribution of each segment summarized in concise infographics and thorough descriptions. View a Free PDF Sample Report Business Process Management Market 2023-2027: Key Highlights Historic Market Size 2017-2021 CAGR of the market during 2023-2027 Detailed information on factors that will assist business process management market growth during the next five years Estimation of the business process management market size and its contribution to the parent market Forecasts on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior The growth of the business process management market Analysis of the competitive landscape and detailed information on companies Comprehensive details of factors that will impede the growth of business process management market companies Related Reports: The Global Business Intelligence Market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 8.49% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 12,144.6 million. The Global Business-to-business (B2B) E-commerce Market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 11.92% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 7,354.98 billion. Business Process Management Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2022 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 10.1% Market growth 2023-2027 USD 8.91 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 9.26 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America Performing market contribution North America at 44% Key countries US, China, Japan, Germany, and UK Competitive landscape Leading Vendors, Market Positioning of Vendors, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled Appian Corp., Bizagi Group Ltd., BONITASOFT SA, Compulink Management Center Inc., CREATIO EMEA Ltd., DXC Technology Co., FlowForma, Genpact Ltd., International Business Machines Corp., Kissflow Inc., Microsoft Corp., Newgen Software Technologies Ltd., Nintex Global Ltd., Open Text Corp., Oracle Corp., Pegasystems Inc., Salesforce Inc., Software AG, Thoma Bravo LP, and Vista Equity Partners Management LLC Market dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, Market condition analysis for the forecast period. Customization purview If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized. ToC: Executive Summary Market Landscape Market Sizing Historic Market Sizes Five Forces Analysis Market Segmentation by Deployment Market Segmentation by End-user 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 LONDON, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Reincubate , the makers of Camo, today announced that the app that gives users video superpowers is now available at the Microsoft Store. This brings Camo's video capture and image refinement capabilities to the more than one billion customers in the Windows community. "We're excited to welcome Camo to the Microsoft Store on Windows 11," said Giorgio Sardo, General Manager of the Store, and head of APS (Apps, Partners, Store). "As a versatile and beautifully-designed video app with powerful AI-enabled capabilities, it's a product that meshes perfectly with our vision of delivering user-centred, cutting-edge experiences to our customers." Three years ago, Camo was created as a tool to help capture professional-quality video for meetings and presentations, streaming and content creation. To do this, it gave users control over their smartphone's advanced cameras, enabling them to capture, stream and record professional-quality video with the tech they already had. Since then, Camo has expanded support to include webcams, built-in cameras, mirrorless cameras, DSLRs and even action cams, enabling PC users to improve and customise their video, using any device they choose. Built on the latest Microsoft APIs, with hardware acceleration for AMD, Intel, and NVIDIA, Camo for Windows provides content creators, streamers and professionals with an array of powerful tools for their work, including customisable overlays, granular image refinement sliders, background effects, framing controls and cinematic filters (LUTs). Today, Camo's arrival at the Microsoft Store makes its magic discoverable by the global Microsoft community, while delivering an even smoother user experience. "Today marks a new leap toward our goal of putting better video into more hands," said Aidan Fitzpatrick, CEO of Reincubate. "Creators and professionals around the world choose Windows as their go-to platform, and the Microsoft Store as their toolbox. Camo will now be where they need it, when they need it." Camo can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store, at https://www.microsoft.com/store/apps/9PGM3QB3PDRD About Reincubate Founded in 2008, Reincubate makes Camo, the app that gives you video superpowers. Camo harnesses the optics of just about any camera, and enables the user to dramatically improve and customise the video they stream or record from it. Camo is an Apple Design Awards finalist (Innovation, 2023), has been an App of the Day in 168 countries in the App Store, and has been featured in both the WSJ and NYT Wirecutter. Reincubate is based in London, UK, with a team distributed around the world. For more information, visit reincubate.com . Camo Marketing / Media Contact Loey Platt, PR and Influencer Partnerships press@reincubate.com SOURCE Reincubate CINCINNATI, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Capital Tactics Inc., a transaction advisory firm in the Cincinnati metro market, today announced the acquisition of Signal Networking, an IT managed services provider, by Orchestrate Technologies, a leading provider of comprehensive technology solutions. The transaction closed on August 15, 2023. This acquisition expands Orchestrate's portfolio of subscription-based managed service offerings, which enable businesses to streamline operations, optimize resources, and focus on core competencies. The combined strengths of Orchestrate Technologies and Signal Networking allow clients to access a comprehensive suite of managed services tailored to their specific needs. Signal Networks provides services in network infrastructure, data security, digital video surveillance, building access control and monitoring, and other technologies. "We are delighted to welcome Signal Networking into the Orchestrate Technologies family," said Vincent Williams, CEO of Orchestrate. "Their expertise in networking, and data and facility security perfectly complement our subscription-based managed services strategy. Together, we will continue to provide businesses with innovative solutions that drive growth and success. We appreciate the Capital Tactics team for sourcing Signal as a fit for us, and in guiding the transactional elements of this deal." Signal Networking's team will integrate into Orchestrate Technologies, ensuring a seamless transition for existing clients and partners. This acquisition presents an opportunity for customers to leverage the expanded range of subscription-based managed services, benefiting from enhanced scalability, proactive monitoring, and a heightened level of technical expertise. With this strategic move, Orchestrate Technologies reinforces its position as a leading provider of subscription-based managed services, catering to a wide range of industries such as telecommunications, cloud services, cybersecurity, and more. By expanding its managed services portfolio, Orchestrate Technologies reaffirms its commitment to empowering businesses with cost-effective, reliable, and scalable solutions. About Orchestrate Technologies Orchestrate Technologies is a trusted provider of comprehensive technology solutions, specializing in subscription-based managed services. With a customer-centric approach, Orchestrate Technologies enables businesses to leverage advanced technologies, simplify operations, and achieve their strategic goals. About Capital Tactics Capital Tactics provides buy-side transaction advisory services to industry, private equity firms, and entrepreneurs. Services include guidance in identifying and sourcing acquisition targets, valuation, capital raising, due diligence, and corporate finance. Capital Tactics was founded by Dino Lucarelli, CPA, a former public company Chief Financial Officer and industry veteran in corporate finance and management. For more information, please contact Dino Lucarelli @ [email protected], or (859) 250-4140 SOURCE Capital Tactics Inc Staring into the distance, Francie Mera vividly recounts her final week with her daughter Anyela. Her voice breaks occasionally, a lump lodged in her throat. Reliving each moment with clarity, its hard to believe that nine years have passed since that tragedy. For almost a decade, this resolute Colombian woman has relentlessly pursued justice for her daughter, whose life prematurely ended at 19 due to complications from an incomplete abortion. As Anyela endured excruciating pain, she sought medical assistance from two hospitals, only to face indifference and cruel stigmatization instead. It was hard for Francie to talk about Anyela without crying. During our interview, she finally opened up the family albums containing her daughters childhood memories, which she hadnt looked at in years. In mid-2014, her daughter, who was studying in Popayan, made the three-hour trip to visit Francie in Cali (western Colombia). They planned to spend Anyelitas birthday together, as Francie fondly refers to her. The celebration took a somber turn when her daughter fell ill on July 27. Francie has vividly etched in her memory everything that happened for the next 10 days until her daughter tragically passed away on August 5. Anyela started experiencing abdominal pain and a severe migraine that progressively worsened. A few days later, she and her boyfriend went to Susana Lopez Hospital in Popayan seeking care. Francie says they experienced consistently poor treatment throughout the week. During one visit, a social worker informed them that taking Cytotec pills for an abortion as Anyela had done was illegal and could land them in jail. The couple was scared, uncertain about Colombias laws at the time. However, the Constitutional Court had decriminalized abortion in 2006, allowing it under three specific circumstances: fetal malformation, pregnancy resulting from sexual violence, and risks to the life or health (physical, mental, or social) of the pregnant woman. Francie Mena with a family photo album. Lyann Cuartas They were sent home without anything to relieve the pain. As the symptoms persisted, they returned 24 hours later. Two more days passed amid exams and vague diagnoses, while Anyela experienced high fevers and other signs of infection. On August 3, a doctor finally performed a curettage (surgical removal of the lining and contents of the uterus) after finding that the Cytotec-induced abortion had been incomplete. Laura Gil, a gynecologist and co-founder of the Colombian chapter of Global Doctors for Choice, says Anyelas case demonstrates several instances of negligence, from the medical staff who provided her care that week, to the government entities that failed to provide clear information for Anyela regarding voluntary termination of pregnancy. Timely information could have saved the young womans life. However, they allowed her condition to worsen. Performing an aspiration procedure, which is recommended by the WHO over curettage, could have prevented the need for uterus removal and the subsequent multisystem organ failure, said the gynecologist. His mother shares the same view. Based on her medical records, Anyelas direct cause of death was respiratory arrest. Francie explains that before her final surgery the hysterectomy her daughter repeatedly said she was having difficulty breathing. She says the priority should have been saving her daughters life, rather than passing judgment. The Benitez Mera family was devastated by the loss of Anyela. Francie had high hopes for her eldest daughter, who was going to study marine biology in college. Anyela had promised to take her mother to see the ocean and the dolphins once she graduated. Anyelas death caused Francies life to unravel. She fell victim to a scam, her marriage ended, and she was left alone with her youngest daughter, Sarita, who kept asking about her older sister. A photo of Anyela at her mother's house in Cali, Colombia. Lyann Cuartas The fight for justice Two years later, Francies sadness turned into a zeal for justice. She decided to sue the La Estancia Clinic and the Susana Lopez Hospital for medical negligence and failure to provide adequate treatment. Her hope is that no other woman will experience the same tragedy as her daughter. However, to her surprise, mistreatment and stigma surrounding voluntary termination of pregnancy persisted during the legal process. The judge said she was a negligent mother and treated her hostilely, forcing her to repeatedly relive her daughters painful death. These years have been a constant reminder of the injustices that poor Anyelita had to endure, said Francie. The revictimization reached its peak when on August 30, 2023, after seven years of legal battles, the sixth administrative court of Popayan ruled on the case. Francies lawsuit against the two clinics was denied, and the court blamed Anyela for her own death. Francies lawyer said, Among other injustices, the judge overlooked the fact that she spent 10 hours in top priority status waiting in the emergency room, which indicates immediate medical attention is needed. The ruling brought back painful memories for Francie, but she wasted no time and filed an appeal. If the court accepts the appeal, it could take another two to three years for the case to be heard. I will go as far as I have to, Francie said with conviction. The pursuit of justice for her daughters suffering is what keeps this mother going. Laura Gil clearly states that Anyela is not to blame for her death. She diligently sought assistance, but she instead faced judgment, rejection and inadequate information regarding Ministry of Health guidelines on voluntary termination of pregnancy. Its evident that she did not receive the same treatment as someone having a miscarriage. Francie Mera with a photo of her daughter, Anyela; September 25, 2023. Lyann Cuartas Ana Gonzalez, a medical doctor with a PhD in bioethics and one of the pioneers of the Causa Justa movement, which has successfully advocated for Colombias decriminalization of abortion, shares the same perspective. It is regrettable that a woman in Colombia lost her life due to negligence. It was abuse gender and obstetric violence. According to Gonzalez, due to Constitutional Court ruling C-055 in 2022, which decriminalizes abortion before 24 weeks in any situation, cases like Anyelas are now handled differently. The ruling has had significant impacts. Women are now seeking more information rather than legal advice, and the health system now appears willing to offer these services. We are committed to advocating for the implementation of these regulatory frameworks. This case vividly demonstrates the detrimental impact on families and women of non-compliance with regulations, and should not occur in a country where abortion is completely decriminalized. September 28 is International Safe Abortion Day, a day of action for decriminalization of abortion in Latin America and the Caribbean. Large marches are planned in the regions major cities, with thousands of women demanding their right to make decisions in dignified conditions. However, society still faces the barriers and lingering prejudices experienced firsthand by Francie Mera. Gonzalez says the womens rights movement in Latin America is growing stronger and is no longer a lonely struggle. In 2014, Francie was unaware of the September 28 event and had few thoughts about womens reproductive rights. However, Anyelas tragic experience transformed her, and she refuses to accept the failures of the clinics, doctors and legal system. Giving up is not in her plans. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Longtime Tech Executive David DiGiacomo Joins Company as Chief Executive Officer HOUSTON, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Capstreet, a Houston-based lower middle market private equity firm, announced today that it has acquired PlanetBids (or "the Company"), a provider of eProcurement software as a service (SaaS) solutions. In conjunction with the acquisition, David DiGiacomo joins PlanetBids as CEO, where he will work closely with Company co-founders Arpie and Alan Zavian, who will remain with the Company. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Studio City, CA, PlanetBids enables public and private organizations to improve visibility, save time, and reduce costs by electronically managing their procurement processes through a fast and frictionless modern interface. The Company offers two flexible procurement platforms: PB System, which helps government, private, nonprofit and educational procurement teams manage and streamline the procurement process, and VendorLine, which connects vendors and contractors with bid opportunities through an intuitive and easy-to-use search platform. "We're excited to partner with Arpie and Alan," said Adrian Guerra, Partner at Capstreet. "We believe eProcurement is poised for accelerated growth, as government agencies in particular continue to invest in software platforms that can help improve efficiency and allow them to better serve their constituencies. David brings a wealth of experience in building successful teams, particularly in government software, and we are delighted to welcome him to the team." Mr. DiGiacomo, who previously served as CEO/President of ListenFirst Media, PowerDMS Inc., and Onsolve (formerly Emergency Communications Network), added, "I am honored to join PlanetBids to help build on the great foundation Arpie and Alan have established. PlanetBids offers a powerful solution, and I'm looking forward to working with Arpie, Alan and the Capstreet team as we strive to delight our clients, grow our team, and identify opportunities to expand the Company's technology and reach nationwide." "We have seen strong market demand for digitized procurement capabilities from local governments and public agencies," said Mr. Zavian. "Capstreet's resources provide an opportunity to increase the scope and depth of our product offerings and go-to-market strategies, which we believe will enable us to assist more organizations with their digital transition." "Modernizing legacy procurement processes increases visibility, efficiency, and accuracy, while also reducing environmental impacts," added Ms. Zavian. "Capstreet understands these fundamentals, and both they and David have a long track record of working with SaaS companies. We look forward to partnering with them to further enhance the PlanetBids product offering and market position." About Capstreet Founded in 1990, Capstreet invests in lower middle market software, tech-enabled services, and industrial business services companies. With over 45 platform investments and over 200 add-on acquisitions since inception, Capstreet's investment strategy is focused on utilizing its Capvalue Framework to help accelerate growth and profitability, and help create long term sustainable businesses. The majority of Capstreet's investments have been with founder- or entrepreneur-owned businesses. For more information, visit the Capstreet website, www.capstreet.com. About PlanetBids PlanetBids is an eProcurement company providing software solutions to help government, private, nonprofit and educational procurement teams. Since 2000, PlanetBids has assisted customers nationwide in their outreach efforts to suppliers, while also helping them gain greater control and visibility over spend and streamlining many traditional time-consuming procurement practices. Its complete line of eProcurement solutions is offered through a suite of powerful modules that are easy-to-use, configurable, reliable and secure. Please visit home.planetbids.com/ for more information. Contact: Lambert Jennifer Hurson, 845-507-0571, [email protected] Joanne Lessner, 212-222-7436, jlessner@lambert.com SOURCE Capstreet The carbon resistor market is driven by factors such as increase in use of consumer electronic devices and surge in digitalization PORTLAND, Ore., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Carbon Resistor Market by Application: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032". According to the report, the carbon resistor market was valued for $2.5 billion in 2022 and is estimated to reach $4.1 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.6% from 2023 to 2032. Download Research Report Sample & TOC: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/191573 Prime determinants of growth The carbon resistor market is anticipated to expand significantly during the forecast period owing increase in use of consumer electronic devices and. In addition, Surge in digitalization fuels the market growth. Additionally, the Carbon resistor is anticipated to benefit owing to the Technological advancements in the healthcare industry and are expected to present enormous opportunities for the market over the forecast period. On the other hand, Surge in adoption of more advanced and efficient electronic components is anticipated to restrain the market growth during the forecast period. Report Coverage and Details: Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 20232032 Base Year 2022 Market Size in 2022 $2.5 billion Market Size in 2032 $4.1 billion CAGR 5.6 % No. of Pages in Report 234 Segments covered Application and Region Drivers Increase in use of consumer electronic devices. Surge in digitalization Opportunities Technological advancements in the healthcare industry Restraints Surge in adoption of more advanced and efficient electronic components COVID-19 Scenario: The carbon resistor market has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. Production and manufacturing facilities across the globe had been shut down, owing to the outbreak of the health crisis and unavailability of workforce. The electronics segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period. Based on application, the electronics segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for more than two-fifths of the global carbon resistor industry revenue and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period. Moreover, the electronics segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 6.23% from 2023 to 2032, owing to their cost-effectiveness, reliability, and ease of integration. Asia-Pacific to maintain its dominance by 2032. Based on region, Asia-Pacific held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2022, accounting for nearly half of the global carbon resistor market revenue. Moreover, Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 6.42% from 2023 to 2032, owing rise in adoption of technology in electronic devices used in healthcare, digital manufacturing, and defense which are fueling the growth of the market in this region. Inquiry before Buying: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/191573 Leading Market Players: OHMITE MFG CO. TE CONNECTIVITY LTD. RIEDON SKS ELECTRONICS KURA ELECTRONICS AND ELECTRICALS JDC RESISTORS SYNTON-TECH CORPORATION KUSUM ENTERPRISES PVT LTD. VIKING TECHNOLOGY LLC SRT RESISTOR TECHNOLOGY GMBH The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players of the global carbon resistor market. These players have adopted different strategies such as product launch, product development, partnership, investment, acquisition, and others to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario. Key Benefits For Stakeholders: This report provides a quantitative analysis of the market segments, current trends, estimations, and dynamics of the carbon resistor market analysis from 2022 to 2032 to identify the prevailing carbon resistor market opportunities. Market research is offered along with information related to key drivers, restraints, and opportunities. Porter's five forces analysis highlights the potency of buyers and suppliers to enable stakeholders to make profit-oriented business decisions and strengthen their supplier-buyer network. In-depth analysis of the carbon resistor market segmentation assists to determine the prevailing market opportunities. Major countries in each region are mapped according to their revenue contribution to the global market. Market player positioning facilitates benchmarking and provides a clear understanding of the present position of the market players. The report includes the analysis of the regional as well as global carbon resistor market trends, key players, market segments, application areas, and market growth strategies. Procure Complete Report (234 Pages PDF with Insights, Charts, Tables, and Figures) @ https://bit.ly/3RDHJKm Trending Reports in Semiconductor and Electronics Industry (Book Now with 10% Discount + COVID-19 Scenario): Chip Resistor Market is Expected to Reach $1,567.2 Million by 2028, registering a CAGR of 5.9% from 2021 to 2028 Thin Film Chip Resistor Market is Projected to Grow $1.1 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 5.4% from 2022 to 2031 Force Sensor Market is Anticipated to Garner $3.30 Billion by 2027, registering a CAGR of 5.30% from 2020 to 2027 Transparent Conductive Films Market is Expected to Attain $12.9 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 10.8% from 2021 to 2030 Gas Sensor Market is Projected to Hit $1,336.2 Million by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 6.4% from 2020 to 2027 About Us: Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Wilmington, Delaware. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports Insights" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain. We are in professional corporate relations with various companies, and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Allied Market Research CEO Pawan Kumar is instrumental in inspiring and encouraging everyone associated with the company to maintain high quality of data and help clients in every way possible to achieve success. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry. Contact: David Correa 1209 Orange Street, Corporation Trust Center, Wilmington, New Castle, Delaware 19801 USA. Int'l: +1-503-894-6022 Toll Free: +1-800-792-5285 UK: +44-845-528-1300 India (Pune): +91-20-66346060 Fax: +1-800-792-5285 [email protected] Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/636519/Allied_Market_Research_Logo.jpg SOURCE Allied Market Research MADISON, Wis., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On August 28, 2023, the City of Madison denied Club Car Wash's application for a conditional use permit for a site on Lien Road, near the intersection of East Washington Avenue and Stoughton Road. Club Car Wash, a leading car wash provider operating in ten states across the Central United States, promptly filed an appeal. City of Madison's common council will hear this appeal next week on October 3rd, 2023. The City's Planning Division recommended approval of Club Car Wash's project, subject to 87 conditions of approval. Club Car Wash was willing to meet all the staff's conditions in order to ensure that its project complies with the City's requirements. Furthermore, the City's Urban Design Commission also voted to approve the project on August 16, 2023. According to Cub Car Wash's Vice President of Development, Justin Barnes, "We were surprised and disappointed that the planning commission denied our application for a CUP, particularly in light of a relatively new law enacted in Wisconsin which mandates the issuance of CUPs by municipalities where applicants meet the standards set forth in local ordinances." Known as Act 67, this 2017 law requires that a local zoning authority's decision to deny a conditional use permit (or CUP) must be supported by substantial evidence. According to some, this law was intended to establish a requirement that a CUP should be issued if the applicant agreed to meet the applicable conditions. The area surrounding Club Car Wash's proposed facility is zoned for mixed use, with auto-oriented uses specifically permitted in the CC-T District. Approximately 45,000 cars drive along this area of East Washington Avenue every day. However, the plan commission raised concerns about locating this auto-oriented business in the City's new Transit Oriented Overlay District, which encourages transit activity. Specifically, Alder Field expressed concerns that the car wash and lines of cars idling and spilling off the property would discourage residential uses in the area. However, Club Car Wash points out that its facility will not have direct access to East Washington Avenue and its use is consistent with the existing businesses in the area, such as grocery stores, gas stations and other retail uses. In fact, the City recently approved a similar car wash project in the CC-T district on Pflaum Road. Developers in Madison have often complained that the City's approval process regularly presents undue challenges and is highly unpredictable. These issues were recently demonstrated when the City denied the re-zoning for a downtown apartment project proposed by Core Spaces based in part on the project's failure to include affordable units. Core Spaces pointed out that the City does not have a uniformly applied affordable housing policy and, therefore, Core Space's project could not be denied on the basis that it failed to include affordable units. Core Spaces' project was ultimately approved upon re-consideration, but the process has left developers concerned about investing the significant funds required to go through the City's approval process. "We are hopeful that City Council will overturn the plan commission and grant us our conditional use permit," said Mr. Barnes. About Club Car Wash Founded as Tiger Express Car Wash in 2006, the company rebranded to Club Car Wash in 2019. Currently operating more than 135 locations in Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, Iowa, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Arkansas, Wisconsin, Tennessee, and Texas, Club Car Wash is one of the largest and fastest growing express car wash companies in the Central United States. Club Car Wash has plans to scale rapidly into Colorado, and Minnesota. To learn more about Club Car Wash, please visit: www.clubcarwash.com . Media Contact: Kendell Palmquist [email protected] Resources Comment on Project: Bill Connors Executive Director Smart Growth Greater Madison, Inc. 608-228-5995 (mobile) [email protected] Comment of Act 67: Tom Larson or Cori Lamont- Wisconsin Realtors Association. [email protected]; [email protected] 1-608-241-2047 Articles On Act 67: Legislature Enacts New Standards for Conditional Use Permits, March 19, 2018- Real Property Probate And Trust Law Blog Legislature Curtails Municipal Conditional Use Permit Authority- Daniel M. Olson, the Municipality February 2018 Similarly Approved Projects: Crew Car Wash on Pflaum Road was approved and is in the CC-T is significant. See Legislative File #79318 within Legistar. Legislative File #74908 - 4522 E Washington Avenue; 17th Ald. Dist.: Consideration of a conditional use in the Commercial Corridor-Transitional (CC-T) District for a vehicle access sales and service window for a restaurant - APPROVED Legislative File #72210 - 1801-1841 Northport Drive; 12th Ald. Dist.: Consideration of a conditional use in the Commercial Corridor-Transitional (CC-T) District for a vehicle access sales and service window, and consideration of a conditional use to allow construction of a new building in a planned multi-use site containing more than 40,000 square feet of floor area and where 25,000 square feet of floor area is designed or intended for retail use or for hotel or motel use, all to allow construction of a one-story coffee shop with vehicle access sales and service window APPROVED Legislative File #76491 - 4846 Eastpark Boulevard; 17th Ald. Dist.: Consideration of a conditional use in the Commercial Corridor-Transitional (CC-T) District for a mixed-use building containing greater than 60 dwelling units, and consideration of a conditional use in the Traditional Residential-Urban 2 (TR-U2) District for a multi-family dwelling containing greater than 60 units to allow construction of a planned multi-use site containing a five story, mixed use building with approximately 7,650 square feet of commercial space and 119 apartments on Lot 47 of the future American Center-Eastpark Fifth Addition subdivision and a four-story, 82-unit apartment building and outdoor pool on future Lot 48 APPROVED . . Legislative File #77020 - 220 Cottage Grove Road; 15th Ald. Dist.: Consideration of a conditional use in the Commercial Corridor-Transitional (CC-T) District for a convenience store to allow construction of an addition APPROVED . . Legislative File #79015 - 4757 Hayes Road; District 17: Consideration of a conditional use in the Commercial Corridor-Transitional (CC-T) District for a multi-family dwelling with greater than 60 units to convert a three story motel into an apartment building with 135 units. - APPROVED Note: you can retrieve legislative files by file number or search by other criteria here: https://madison.legistar.com/Legislation.aspx - click advanced search for more search options. SOURCE Club Car Wash CHICAGO, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The report "Coating Additives Market by Type (defoamers, wetting & dispersing agents, rheology modifiers), Formulation (water-borne, solvent-borne), Application (architectural, industrial, automotive & transportation, wood & furniture), Region - Global Forecast to 2028", size was USD 8.3 billion in 2023 to USD 10.5 billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 4.7% from 2023 to 2028. Browse in-depth TOC on "Coating Additives Market" 168 Tables 57 Figures 174 Pages Coating additives encompass chemical compounds or substances strategically integrated into coatings and paints to enhance their properties, performance, and application characteristics. These additives are instrumental components within coating formulations, tailored to accomplish specific objectives and overcome challenges related to coating application and usage. They play a pivotal role in elevating the quality, durability, appearance, and functionality of coatings across a multitude of industries and applications. Among coating additives, rheology modifiers emerge as the largest category. They hold a critical role in enhancing the overall performance and application attributes of coatings. Rheology modifiers effectively manage the viscosity of coatings, simplifying the application process, preventing drooping or sagging, and ensuring consistent coverage. This viscosity control is fundamental for achieving the desired finish and thickness while contributing to a smoother and aesthetically pleasing coating through improved flow and leveling. This feature is especially significant for top-tier coatings employed in automotive and architectural applications. Architectural applications constitute a substantial and rapidly expanding segment within the coating additives market. This growth is propelled by the global trend of increasing urbanization, leading to a notable upsurge in construction activities, particularly in emerging economies. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=1268 "Rheology modifiers was the largest type for coating additives market in 2022 in terms of value." In response to stringent environmental regulations and a growing focus on sustainability, there has been a notable shift towards the adoption of water-based coatings in the region. Within this evolving landscape, rheology modifiers play a pivotal role in ensuring the stability and performance of water-based formulations, aligning with these regulatory shifts. Various chemistries of rheology modifiers find application in paints and coatings, including but not limited to cellulosic, specialty clay, organoclays, hydrogenated castor oils, fumed silicas, polyamides, and overbased sulphonates, among others. Among these, rheology modifiers claim the largest market share, driven by their exceptional attributes such as viscosity control, stability in preventing pigment and solid particle settling, facilitation of coating flow and leveling, and the introduction of thixotropic qualities to coatings. "Water-borne formulation is estimated to be the largest segment in coating additives market between 2023 and 2028 in terms of value" Water-borne coating additives find widespread use in applications where environmental concerns and the imperative of low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions take precedence. These applications span various sectors, including architectural, automotive & transportation, wood & furniture, and packaging coatings. These specialized formulations are meticulously crafted to yield a stable mixture that can be efficiently applied to surfaces, resulting in the creation of protective and aesthetically appealing coatings. These coatings are characterized by desirable attributes such as strong adhesion, durability, and an appealing appearance. It's worth noting that the demand for water-borne coating additives has been substantial, commanding a significant portion of the global coating additives market share, primarily due to their environmental advantages and versatility in diverse applications. "Architectural segment is estimated to be the largest application in coating additives market between 2023 and 2028 in terms of value." The construction and real estate sectors, which heavily rely on architectural coatings, have demonstrated consistent growth. This sustained expansion translates into a continuous need for coating additives within the realm of architectural applications. Stringent environmental regulations have propelled the adoption of environmentally friendly options like water-based and low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) coatings in architectural contexts. The prevailing economic prosperity further amplifies construction and renovation activities across both residential and commercial domains, subsequently augmenting the demand for coatings. Notably, the Asia-Pacific region, characterized by its substantial and continuously expanding population, plays a pivotal role in this dynamic. The population growth acts as a catalyst for increased construction projects encompassing residential and commercial properties, thereby driving heightened demand for architectural coatings and their associated additives. Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=1268 "Asia Pacific is estimated to be the fastest-growing region for the coating additives market during the forecast period from 2023 to 2028" Asia-Pacific is anticipated to achieve the highest CAGR in this market, primarily driven by several key factors. Firstly, the region boasts the presence of significant market players, and it experiences substantial demand from vital end-use industries like automotive, architectural, and wood & furniture. Asia-Pacific, marked by its rapid development, represents a promising arena for various industry participants. A noteworthy trend is the strategic relocation of production facilities by leading players from North America and Europe to this region. This strategic shift is motivated by factors such as the availability of cost-effective raw materials, reduced production costs, and the imperative to better serve local markets. Market Players : The key market players in Coating additives market are Evonik Industries AG(Germany), ALTANA AG(Germany), BASF SE(Germany), Dow Inc.(US), Nouryon(Netherlands), Arkema S.A.(France), ELEMENTIS PLC(UK), Allnex GMBH(Germany), Arkema S.A.(France), Eastman Chemical Company(US), and Ashland Inc.(US).https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=421 - utm_source=PRnewswire&utm_medium=Referal&utm_campaign=PaidPR Browse Adjacent Market: Specialty Chemicals Market Research Reports & Consulting Related Reports: Architectural Coatings Market - Global Forecasts to 2028 Industrial Coatings Market - Global Forecasts to 2025 Paints & Coatings Market - Global Forecasts to 2027 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. Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we work with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies - helping them stay relevant in a disruptive ecosystem. Our insights and strategies are molded by our industry experts, cutting-edge AI-powered Market Intelligence Cloud, and years of research. The KnowledgeStore (our Market Intelligence Cloud) integrates our research, facilitates an analysis of interconnections through a set of applications, helping clients look at the entire ecosystem and understand the revenue shifts happening in their industry. To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. Contact: Mr. Aashish Mehra MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: [email protected] Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/coating-additives-market.asphttps://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/pharmaceutical-grade-lithium-carbonate-market.asp - utm_source=PRnewswire&utm_medium=Referal&utm_campaign=PaidPR Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/coating-additives.asp Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/660509/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg SOURCE MarketsandMarkets LAHAINA, Hawaii, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Na'Aikane o Maui Cultural Center, Ke'eaumoku Kapu and U'ilani Kapu have sued Peter Martin and his West Maui Land Company's water subsidiaries Launiupoko Irrigation Company, Launiupoko Water Company and Launiupoko Water Development LLC over the Lahaina fires. Their lawsuit contends that the Peter Martin conglomerate made worse the dry and dangerous conditions that led to the Lahaina fires by diverting streams and over-pumping Lahaina ground water for their luxury real estate developments without regard to the dangerous condition it would cause for the rest of Lahaina. Beginning at the end of the nineteenth century, American and European sugar and pineapple plantations developed water diversion systems to irrigate industrial scale sugar and pineapple crops that altered natural ecosystems and forced many Native Hawaiian families off their own farmlands. Peter Martin and his subsidiary companies bought the plantation's land claims and its control of the water diversion systems when they closed at the end of the twentieth century. Instead of continuing to irrigate large swaths of agricultural land, they developed luxury gated housing subdivisions and diverted virtually all of the water to those developments, leaving large tracts of land desolate. In 2018, the Commission on Water Resource Management ordered Martin's companies to return sufficient flow to the streams they had been diverting. In response, his company began over-pumping wells closer to the shoreline in Lahaina town and then pumping the water uphill to his luxury housing subdivisions. In the process, remaining surface waters in Moku'ula dried up. Na'Aikane o Maui recently complained to the Commission on Water Resource Management about this "drying up" of Lahaina Town. The new allegations are in addition to those that Na'Aikane o Maui Cultural Center and other Lahaina fire survivors have already asserted against the Peter Martin conglomerate for contributing to the Lahaina fires by neglecting to maintain the large swaths of land they control in West Maui. Na'Aikane o Maui Cultural Center has also sued MECO, the State of Hawai'i, and the County of Maui for their role in causing the Lahaina fires. Na'Aikane o Maui Cultural Center was a hub for West Maui's Native Hawaiian communities -- affirming traditional cultural practices to assisting Native Hawaiian families with genealogical and land claims research. It also maintained a library, map collection, and museum of culturally significant objects. It was situated at the edge of the historic boundary of Moku'ula, the sacred, royal island of Lahaina. Na'Aikane o Maui Cultural Center, Ke'eaumoku Kapu and U'ilani Kapu are represented by Lance D. Collins of the Law Office of Lance D. Collins and Malama Law Group. Lance D. Collins is a Maui lawyer who, along with Honolulu lawyer Harrison L. Kiehm, and Maui lawyer Linda Nye leads the Malama Law Group. Joining the Malama Law Group from California is Hawaiian lawyer Kristine Kalama Keala (formerly Meredith), managing partner of Danko Meredith, a preeminent utility wildfire California firm that has won over $1 billion in cash compensation for survivors of utility fires. The Malama Law Group represents property owners, renters, businesses and families who have lost loved ones in the Maui fire. You can contact Lance D. Collins at (808) 215-7833 or by visiting www.malamalawgroup.com. SOURCE Danko Meredith CHICAGO, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Improved security, automation, cyber threat resilience, and the incorporation of cutting-edge technology will define the Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS) Market's future as it provides quick and dependable recovery solutions in a digital environment that is becoming more complicated and interconnected. The DRaaS Market size is expected to grow from USD 10.7 billion in 2023 to USD 26.5 billion by 2028 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.8% during the forecast period, according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The DRaaS market stands at the forefront of business resilience, propelled by a confluence of factors. Moreover, the rising menace of ransomware attacks has further accelerated the adoption of DRaaS, with organizations seeking rapid and reliable recovery options. Customization, security, and compliance remain paramount as the market evolves, driving innovation and competition among providers. With an ever-expanding global reach and a focus on business continuity, the DRaaS market is poised for continued growth and transformation in the years ahead. Browse in-depth TOC on " Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS) Market" 217 - Tables 45 - Figures 252 - Pages Download PDF Brochure @ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=962 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 Type, Deployment Mode, Organization Size, Vertica, and Region Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America Companies Covered Some of the significant DRaaS market vendors are AWS (US), Microsoft (US), IBM (US), VMware (US), 11:11 Systems (US), Recovery Point Systems (US), InterVision Systems (US), TierPoint (US), Infrascale (US), and Zerto (US). Moreover, with the proliferation of data, DRaaS harnesses technologies such as data deduplication and compression to optimize storage and reduce costs. This enables organizations to efficiently manage and protect vast amounts of data without breaking the bank. DRaaS solutions incorporate AI and automation to enhance disaster recovery orchestration. Predictive analytics and machine learning algorithms can identify potential vulnerabilities and automatically trigger failover procedures, saving valuable time during crises. Furthermore, as organizations increasingly rely on edge computing for real-time data processing, DRaaS extends its reach to edge locations. This ensures the continuity of critical edge operations and seamless data replication to centralized data centers or the cloud. By Service Type, the real-time replication segment is expected to capture the second-highest CAGR during the forecast period. The DRaaS market, by service type, includes real-time replication, backup & restore, data protection, and professional services. The real-time replication segment is estimated to hold the second-highest CAGR during the forecasted period. Real-time replication is a crucial segment within the DRaaS market, offering businesses a cutting-edge solution for swift and comprehensive data protection. This technology plays a pivotal role in enhancing the effectiveness and speed of disaster recovery processes. Real-time replication involves continuously copying data from a primary system to a secondary location, ensuring the backup remains up-to-date with the latest changes. In the context of DRaaS, any modifications made to data, applications, or systems are instantaneously replicated to a secure off-site or cloud-based environment. Request Sample Pages @ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=962 The significance of real-time replication is evident in its ability to minimize data loss and downtime during disruptions. By ensuring that data is constantly mirrored in real-time, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of losing valuable information during hardware failures, cyberattacks, or natural disasters. Moreover, the immediate synchronization of data allows for seamless and rapid recovery, facilitating quicker restoration of operations and minimizing productivity interruptions. Based on deployment Mode, the public cloud segment is expected to account for the largest market share during the forecast period. The DRaaS market, by deployment mode, is segmented into public cloud and private cloud. It is expected that during the forecast period, the public cloud segment is estimated to account for the largest market size and share in the DRaaS market. The public cloud deployment segment plays a significant and transformative role in the DRaaS market. It involves leveraging the resources and infrastructure of established cloud service providers to facilitate efficient and scalable disaster recovery solutions. In this context, public cloud deployment offers businesses the advantage of outsourcing their disaster recovery environment to reputable cloud platforms. This eliminates the need for hefty upfront investments in physical infrastructure, data centers, and maintenance, resulting in cost savings and enhanced flexibility. Public cloud deployment also ensures rapid scalability. Businesses can dynamically adjust their resources based on evolving data volumes and recovery needs, enabling efficient utilization of computing power during normal operations and seamless handling of increased demands during disruptions. Furthermore, the geographic distribution of public cloud data centers enhances data resilience. In regional disasters, data remains accessible from unaffected locations, minimizing downtime and ensuring business continuity. The security measures provided by reputable public cloud providers further bolster data protection. These providers implement advanced encryption, access controls, and compliance frameworks, mitigating security concerns and adhering to industry regulations. However, businesses must choose providers aligned with their security, compliance, and performance requirements. Integration complexities and potential data transfer costs also warrant consideration. The public cloud deployment segment revolutionizes the DRaaS market by offering businesses a scalable, cost-effective, and secure solution. It aligns perfectly with the modern need for adaptable and resilient disaster recovery strategies, enabling businesses to efficiently safeguard their operations and data in the face of disruptions. North America is projected to hold the largest market share during the forecast period. The DRaaS 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 DRaaS market in 2023, and this trend is expected to continue during the forecast period. The DRaaS market in North America has been studied for countries including the US and Canada. DRaaS holds a significant and evolving role in the North American region, reflecting the region's advanced technological infrastructure, increasing digital dependence, and the need for robust disaster preparedness. In North America, DRaaS serves as a crucial solution for businesses aiming to ensure business continuity in the face of natural disasters, cyberattacks, hardware failures, and other disruptions. North American enterprises are acutely aware of downtime's financial and reputational risks. DRaaS providers offer tailored solutions, allowing businesses to quickly recover critical data and systems, minimizing downtime and financial losses. The region faces constant cyber threats, making data protection and recovery paramount. DRaaS offers secure data backup and recovery options, helping organizations effectively rebound from ransomware attacks or data breaches. Moreover, North America has stringent data protection regulations, such as GDPR in Canada and HIPAA in the United States. DRaaS providers assist companies in adhering to these regulations by ensuring data resilience and recovery capabilities. Top Key Companies in Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS) Market: Some of the significant DRaaS market vendors are AWS (US), Microsoft (US), IBM (US), VMware (US), 11:11 Systems (US), Recovery Point Systems (US), InterVision Systems (US), TierPoint (US), Infrascale (US), Zerto (US). Recent developments: In August 2023 , Microsoft updated and improved the Azure Site Recovery service to help users stay up-to-date; it provides users with information about the latest releases, new features, and new content. , Microsoft updated and improved the Azure Site Recovery service to help users stay up-to-date; it provides users with information about the latest releases, new features, and new content. In July 2023 , VMware improved its products' security features to help prevent and mitigate ransomware attacks. This includes enhanced access controls, encryption, network segmentation, and integration with third-party security tools. Moreover, VMware offers backup and recovery solutions that enable users to create regular snapshots and backups of their virtual machines. These snapshots can be used to restore systems to a previous state in case of a ransomware attack. Organizations can recover data without paying ransom to attackers by having reliable backup processes. , VMware improved its products' security features to help prevent and mitigate ransomware attacks. This includes enhanced access controls, encryption, network segmentation, and integration with third-party security tools. Moreover, VMware offers backup and recovery solutions that enable users to create regular snapshots and backups of their virtual machines. These snapshots can be used to restore systems to a previous state in case of a ransomware attack. Organizations can recover data without paying ransom to attackers by having reliable backup processes. In March 2023 , 11:11 Systems, a managed infrastructure solutions provider, announced the general availability of 11:11 Managed Backup for Cohesity, a fully managed service for on-premises data protection. By combining Cohesity's solution deployed on-site with 11:11's onboarding, configuration, and ongoing management, customers get comprehensive protection from a secure, scalable backup offering in a single, seamless solution. In a ransomware attack, customers can quickly recover at scale. Inquire Before Buying @ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Enquiry_Before_BuyingNew.asp?id=962 Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS) Market Advantages: Rapid failover and recovery capabilities offered by DRaaS solutions help to reduce downtime by ensuring that crucial systems and data are rapidly restored during an outage. By outsourcing disaster recovery to a service provider, businesses can save money on capital expenses by avoiding the need to build and maintain a secondary data centre. DRaaS can scale to the needs of the organisation, allowing for growth and boosting data recovery capacity as the company grows. The availability and dependability of disaster recovery solutions are enhanced by service providers' customarily strong and redundant infrastructure. In comparison to conventional disaster recovery methods, DRaaS provides quicker recovery times, assuring little data loss and little impact on operations. Automation features make failover and recovery procedures easier to complete, lowering the risk of human error and hastening recovery. Without interfering with production settings, DRaaS enables organisations to routinely test and validate their disaster recovery strategies. Disaster recovery planning, deployment, and maintenance are made simpler by DRaaS, making them accessible to businesses with limited IT competence. To safeguard data throughout both the storage and recovery phases, DRaaS providers frequently use security features like encryption and access controls. By ensuring that data backup and recovery procedures are in line with industry standards, DRaaS solutions can help organisations comply with legal and regulatory requirements. Report Objectives To describe and forecast the global Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS) market based on service types, deployment modes, organization size, verticals, and regions To forecast the market size of the five major regional segments: North America , Europe , Asia Pacific (APAC), Middle East & Africa (MEA), and Latin America , , (APAC), & (MEA), and To strategically analyze the market subsegments with respect to individual growth trends, prospects, and contributions to the total market To provide detailed information related to the major factors influencing the growth of the market (drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges) To strategically analyze macro and micro markets with respect to growth trends, prospects, and their contributions to the overall market To analyze industry trends, patents & innovations, and pricing data related to the DRaaS market To analyze the impact of recession impact on service types, deployment modes, organization size, verticals, and regions across the globe To analyze the opportunities in the market for stakeholders and provide details of the competitive landscape for major players To profile key players in the market and comprehensively analyze their market share/ranking and core competencies To track and analyze 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: Innovation Management Market - Global Forecast to 2028 System Integration Services Market - Global Forecast to 2028 Simulation Software Market - Global Forecast to 2028 ESG Reporting Software Market - Global Forecast to 2027 Digital Workplace 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. 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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/recovery-as-a-service-market.asp Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/recovery-as-a-service.asp Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/660509/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg SOURCE MarketsandMarkets The new property blends contemporary designs and timeless works from iconic Disney artists to create a memorable backdrop for vacations unlike any other ANAHEIM, Calif., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Inspired by the creative magic of Walt Disney Animation Studios, The Villas at Disneyland Hotel are now open. The all-new tower features 344 thoughtfully themed guest rooms designed to immerse guests in the worlds of classic Disney stories while offering modern, just-like-home amenities only steps away from the Disneyland Resort theme parks. The Villas at Disneyland Hotel features 344 thoughtfully themed guest rooms, including villa-style accommodations that bring to life the charm of timeless Disney stories in modern spaces while offering just-like-home amenities only steps away from the Disneyland Resort theme parks in Anaheim, Calif. The stunning 12-story tower is the 16th Disney Vacation Club property and the fourth tower of the award-winning Disneyland Hotel. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort) Disney Vacation Club celebrated the official opening of The Villas at Disneyland Hotel on Sept. 28 with an exciting ceremony featuring Disney executives, appearances from beloved characters and a performance by Disney on Broadway legend Kissy Simmons. The stunning new 12-story tower is the 16th Disney Vacation Club property and the fourth tower of the award-winning Disneyland Hotel at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Calif. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort) "The Villas at Disneyland Hotel celebrates the remarkable legacy of Walt Disney Animation Studios' storytelling and the creative process these talented artists go through to bring Disney characters to life from sketch to screen," said Bill Diercksen, senior vice president and general manager of Disney Vacation Club. "With imaginative details and spacious accommodations, this beautiful new tower is the perfect place for families to create magical vacation memories for years to come." The stunning, 12-story tower is the 16th Disney Vacation Club property and the first dedicated Disney Vacation Club property at Disneyland Resort since The Villas at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa opened in 2009. The property also marks the first new tower at the award-winning Disneyland Hotel since 1979. The Villas at Disneyland Hotel features a variety of themed accommodations for families large and small including duo studios, deluxe studios, one- and two-bedroom villas and multi-level grand villas. Each room celebrates the creativity of Disney films including "The Jungle Book," "Sleeping Beauty," "The Princess and the Frog," "Fantasia" and more. The official opening was celebrated with a fun-filled ceremony highlighted by dedication remarks from Bill Diercksen and Dan Coleman, general manager of the Disneyland Hotel. The two were joined by Disney cast members and characters from the stories featured throughout the tower's artwork such as Baloo and King Louie from "The Jungle Book," Anna and Elsa from "Frozen," and Princess Tiana from "The Princess and the Frog." To close out the celebration, Disney on Broadway actress Kissy Simmons performed the new Disney Vacation Club anthem "Where We Belong (Welcome Home)." Immersive Disney Storytelling: Step Inside The Villas at Disneyland Hotel When entering the lobby, members and guests are greeted by a mural created exclusively for this property by beloved Disney Animation artist Lorelay Bove. Bove is known for her visual development work on Walt Disney Animation Studios films such as "The Princess and the Frog" and "Encanto." Walt Disney Imagineers have taken inspiration from the animators' storytelling process to create distinctive accommodations that celebrate the magic of creativity. From color palettes based on animation stills to concept art, guests are instantly immersed in the storytelling process. Perfect for two guests, the newly imagined duo studios are inspired by "The Jungle Book" featuring a split bathroom with themed tile accents and a queen-size bed that conveniently tucks into the wall to reveal a sofa when not in use. With enough space for up to four guests, the deluxe studios celebrate the timeless tales of "Sleeping Beauty" or "The Princess and the Frog" and feature a kitchenette, split bathroom and two queen-size beds to sleep up to four guests. One- and two-bedroom villas offer roomier accommodations for larger families, sleeping up to five and nine guests, respectively. The villas include a full-size kitchen and living areas with comfortable sofa seating that can be easily pulled down to reveal a queen-size bed, complete with a story-themed mural above inspired by "The Princess and the Frog" or "Fantasia." The comfort continues into the main bedroom, which includes a spacious en-suite bathroom featuring double vanities, a soaking tub with a themed mosaic-style tile mural and a spa-like shower. The three-bedroom grand villas feature multi-level accommodations for up to 12 guests. On the first floor, families can enjoy a full-size kitchen, large dining area and a double-sided fireplace connecting the living area to a private outdoor balcony. The first floor is also home to the primary suite inspired by "Bambi." Guests will discover more magic as they venture up a spiral staircase to discover a full-size washer and dryer and two themed bedrooms. One bedroom is inspired by "Frozen" and one by "Moana," each with two queen-size beds and en-suite bathrooms. Making Magical Memories: Fun Activities for the Whole Family The brand-new Palette Pool area offers an inviting oasis perfect for relaxation and play. Guests can unwind in the crystal-clear, palette-shaped swimming pool or enjoy refreshing snacks and drinks at the Palm Breeze Bar (opening later this season). This delightful outdoor space boasts decor inspired by the distinctive artistry of Disney Legend Mary Blair. Little ones can cool off at the whimsical "Steamboat Willie" splash pad inspired by the iconic short film. Kids can star in their own story by joining the iconic Mickey Mouse at the helm of the boat brought to life with waterfalls, fountains and misty fog effects. Disney Vacation Club members and guests staying at the Disneyland Hotel can enjoy these new amenities and current hotel offerings including restaurants, lounges, shops and swimming pools. Guests can also take advantage of the tower's ideal location just steps away from the excitement of Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park* and the Downtown Disney District. Disney Vacation Club: A 'Home' Within the Magic Today, there are a total of 16 Disney Vacation Club properties across four states, including Disney's Riviera Resort, the newest Disney Vacation Club property at Walt Disney World Resort, and Aulani, Disney Vacation Club Villas, Ko Olina, Hawaii. To learn more about Disney Vacation Club, obtain information about the ownership experience or purchase vacation points at The Villas at Disneyland Hotel, members and guests can visit DisneyVacationClub.com or contact Member Services at (800) 800-9800. For more information on The Villas at Disneyland Hotel or to book a stay, guests can visit TheVillasatDisneylandHotel.com. *Theme Park admission is not included with membership and is sold separately. Certain amenities and facilities mentioned are not part of the ownership interest. About Disney Vacation Club Disney Vacation Club, a leader in vacation ownership, debuted in 1991 with a flexible, vacation points-based system rather than the traditional fixed-week timeshare model. Today, Disney Vacation Club has more than 250,000 member families, from all 50 states and approximately 100 countries, who have discovered the joys of membership. Disney Vacation Club members are able to choose from among a variety of exciting vacation destinations, including a stay at any Disney Vacation Club Resort or one of thousands of other vacation options in destinations around the world. Plus, when purchasing directly from Disney, members can also enjoy the Disney Collection, which includes select Disney Resort hotels, Disney Cruise Line and guided vacations with Adventures by Disney or National Geographic Expeditions, as well as the World Collection, a range of well-known resorts and hotels in landmark cities and international destinations. With Disney Vacation Club properties located near the Disney theme parks in Florida and California, members have easy access to new and innovative attractions on both coasts for years to come. For more information and special offers, visit DisneyVacationClub.com. About the Disneyland Resort The Disneyland Resort features two spectacular theme parks Disneyland (the original Disney theme park) and Disney California Adventure Park plus three hotels and the Downtown Disney District, comprising unique dining, entertainment and shopping experiences. The Resort's hotels are the luxurious Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which also features 50 Disney Vacation Club units; the magical Disneyland Hotel both AAA Four Diamond properties plus Disney Vacation Club accommodations at The Villas at Disneyland Hotel, and Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel. For information on attractions and vacations at the Disneyland Resort, visit Disneyland.com, call (866) 43-DISNEY or contact a local travel agent. Located in Anaheim, Calif., the Disneyland Resort opened July 17, 1955. Open daily, year-round. SOURCE Disney Vacation Club MINNEAPOLIS, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Dr. Rosalie Perpich was installed as president of the Minnesota Dental Association (MDA) for the 2023-2024 term at the Association's annual House of Delegates meeting in Bloomington. Dr. Perpich spent six years in the Minnesota National Guard as a medic before becoming a dentist. She is a 1997 graduate of the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry and completed a General Practice Residency at Veterans Administration Hospital in Philadelphia, PA. In 1992, she opened a family practice in Stillwater, where she continues to practice today. She also serves geriatric patients at a satellite clinic and lectures for the University of Minnesota geriatric dental mini-residence program. Dr. Perpich has been involved in organized dentistry for nearly two decades. She's served on several committees including the MDA's Elderly and Special Needs Health Care Committee, Barriers to Care, and Editorial Advisory Board. She has been a member of the Minnesota Dental Foundation since 2008. She fulfilled a three-year term as a Saint Paul District Dental Society (SPDDS) trustee and served as their president in 2012. In 2020 she was elected as MDA second vice president and subsequently moved her way up within the MDA officer positions. Dr. Perpich has also served as an MDA delegate at the American Dental Association House of Delegates. She is an active volunteer in the community, serving as a state lead for the Minnesota Mission of Mercy, and volunteers at Hope Dental Clinic. In addition to the American Dental Association (ADA), MDA, and SPDDS, Dr. Perpich also holds memberships with the Academy of General Dentistry, Special Care Dentistry Association, Seattle Study Club, and she's a past member of Spear Education/Faculty Club. In her free time, she enjoys yoga, walking, painting, woodworking, photography, and spending time with her two sons. The Minnesota Dental Association is the voice of dentistry in Minnesota, representing practicing dentists. It is committed to the highest standards of oral health and access to care for all Minnesotans. Learn more at: www.mndental.org. SOURCE Minnesota Dental Association Limited Edition Bone Bottle Haunts the Shelves Just in Time for Halloween TORONTO, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Crystal Head Vodka, an ultra-premium vodka brand, announced today the return of its limited-edition Bone bottle in celebration of Halloween. Showcasing a bone-replicated design created with an eerie yet elegant decorative finish, Crystal Head Vodka continues to celebrate the creative spirit just in time for the spooky season. Crystal Head Vodka's Limited Edition Bone Bottle Known for its signature skull-shaped bottle, harboring the purest, smoothest vodka with one-of-a-kind packaging and imaginative thinking, Crystal Head's Bone bottle's artistic and skeletal design offers a distinctive consumer experience: a smooth and delicious vodka ideally fit for Halloween-themed cocktails and the perfect spooky season bar cart addition. Initially launched in 2019, the 2023 release will offer a super-limited run of 4,500 cases total of Bone bottles globally. The 2023 Bone bottle displays a chalky white ceramic coating that mimics the look of bone to artistically house Crystal Head's original Canadian corn-based vodka, crafted from Canadian peaches and cream corn that offers neutral grain aromas with a delicate touch of citrus. Silky smooth with a hint of sweetness and vanilla that ends with a sweet, creamy finish, the award-winning spirit is sugar-free, gluten-free, and seven times filtered through Herkimer diamonds to ensure a premium drinking experience. "We're bringing the Bone bottle back just in time for Halloween, celebrating the fusion of Crystal Head's craftsmanship and creative mystique," said Dan Aykroyd, Crystal Head Vodka founder, actor and musician. "Our 2023 launch is bigger and better, as we've expanded the Bone bottle's availability globally in response to its success in 2019 and consumer demand. This one-of-a-kind bottle design represents our brand's quintessential commitment to merging artistic expression and fun, allowing consumers to celebrate the Halloween season with our smooth, decadent vodka and utilize the Bone bottle as epic decor." Launched in limited quantity, Crystal Head Vodka's "Bone" bottle is 750 ml and available in select markets for a limited time. Must be 21 or older to purchase. For more information about Crystal Head Vodka, visit crystalheadvodka.com or on social media @crystalheadvodka. About Crystal Head Vodka Multi-award-winning, ultra-premium Crystal Head Vodka was created by actor Dan Aykroyd and renowned artist John Alexander, who designed the iconic skull bottle to symbolize life, reflecting power and enlightenment. Creativity is at the heart of Crystal Head Vodka, with the desire to inspire those who think differently and encourage their creative pursuits. Crystal Head Vodka uses only the highest-quality ingredients and pristine water from Newfoundland, Canada, to create unique, additive-free, ultra-premium vodka expressions. As a distinctive finishing touch, Crystal Head Vodka is filtered through layers of Herkimer Diamonds. Crystal Head Vodka produces three expressions of vodka: original, made from locally sourced Canadian corn, Aurora, crafted from English wheat, and Onyx, crafted with Blue Weber Agave sourced from a single farm in Mexico. Crystal Head Vodka is now sold in over 75 countries around the world. For more information, visit crystalheadvodka.com. SOURCE Crystal Head Vodka Celebrated HGTV Star Expands Her Portfolio with Elevated and Attainable Home Decor Offerings ATLANTA, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Egypt Sherrod, the beloved HGTV star, accomplished interior designer, and renowned real estate expert, is taking a bold step into the world of home decor, introducing a new era of accessible luxury for homeowners with her INDIGO ROAD by Egypt Sherrod home furnishing imprint. Drawing inspiration from earthy natural elements, dynamic global influence, and the wonder of world travel, Indigo Road home furnishings and decor are created with timeless and elevated beauty in mind. "At Indigo Road, there's a sense of everyday, livable luxury," explains Egypt Sherrod who proudly unveils the Indigo Road furniture line, a collaboration with East at Main, a Jeffan International company. This comprehensive collection, consisting of 80 thoughtfully crafted pieces, aims to elevate everyday living at an attainable price point. Egypt Sherrod, HGTV star, interior designer, and real estate expert, introduces her INDIGO ROAD home furnishing imprint. Post this "The Indigo Road collection is where comfort & luxury align. It embodies the idea that everyone deserves access to, luxurious home decor," Egypt Sherrod states. "We utilize performance fabrics so the entire family can enjoy home. I have infused inspiration from my travels to Morocco, Italy, Greece, Bali, and South Africa. The collection pulls from my own Native American and Eritrean roots, and we strive to create pieces that interweave all of this richness. From texture to print work, Indigo Road echoes the refined beauty of the natural world, and empowers others to tell their own stories through interior design." As part of her expanding portfolio, Egypt is also introducing the Indigo Road by Egypt Sherrod x NuWallpaper collection, in collaboration with Wallpops. High quality luxury peel and stick wallpaper, the collection features five distinctive designs, each available in multiple color variations, made to easily transform any living space. With botanical motifs and modern geometric patterns, the NuWallpaper collection adds an element of sophistication and charm to interior decor. Sherrod is also in development on creating a line of softlines, including bedding and draperies, which will be out in 2024. Together, the launch of the Indigo Road furniture line and the NuWallpaper collection, mark the entry point of Egypt Sherrod's dedication to providing a robust line of comfortable, luxurious and attainable home decor solutions. For more information about INDIGO ROAD by Egypt Sherrod please visit INDIGOROAD.com and shop the furniture line at EASTATMAIN.com. SOURCE INDIGO ROAD by Egypt Sherrod A woman holds up a sign with pictures of the seven kidnapped teens in Zacatecas. Adolfo Vladimir (CUARTOSCURO) The horror never ends in Mexico. Searchers in the north-central state of Zacatecas have found the bodies of six of the seven teenagers who were kidnapped early Sunday morning in Villanueva, as confirmed to EL PAIS by the state official Rodrigo Reyes. Only one of the youths, whose identity has not been revealed out of respect for the families, has survived and is being treated at the State General Hospital for head injuries and fractured nose bones. This youth is now under the protection of law enforcement officials and accompanied by a psychologist, according to the Prosecutors Office. The same helicopter that sighted the survivor also located at least three bodies, apparently lifeless, in an area difficult to access, since there are no roads. When the officers reached the site, they found six bodies. Their relatives are identifying the remains. The seven teenagers were kidnapped in the early hours of Sunday by a group of armed men. The victims identities are Jorge Alberto Rene Ocon Acevedo, 14; Oscar Ernesto Rojas Alvarado, 15; Diego Rodriguez Vidales, 17; Hector Alejandro Saucedo Acevedo, 17; Sergio Yobani Acevedo Rodriguez, 18; Gumaro Santacruz Carrillo, 18; and Jesus Manuel Rodriguez Robles, 18. The motive for the crime remains unclear, as is the identity of the organized criminal group behind it. Police arrested two teenagers on Tuesday who could be related to the disappearance, said the Zacatecas state attorney general, Francisco Murillo, at a news conference on Wednesday. The two suspects, said to be from the state of Durango, were arrested in Genaro Codinas, a municipality 40 miles from Malpaso, where the seven youths were kidnapped. At 4:00 a.m. on Sunday, a group of armed men in several vehicles burst into the ranch El Potrerito, owned by Hector Alejandro Saucedo Acevedos parents, where the seven young men were resting. They had spent Saturday night together and were sleeping over. Three of them were first cousins, the rest were close friends because they studied together at the local high school. The commando fired in the air to frighten them and took the teenagers away, still barefoot, according to the father of one of the victims, who spoke with this newspaper on condition of anonymity. The authorities are just 100 or 200 meters from the ranch from which they were taken. They didnt hear the shots, they didnt hear anything. They sent a state officer after 8:00 a.m., and he showed up without a weapon, without protection gear, nothing. All the village residents in nearby homes heard the shots, it cant be possible that [the authorities] didnt hear them, protested the father. The victims relatives have no doubt that the crime was originally meant as a kidnapping-for-ransom job. During Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning, they blocked Federal Highway 54, which connects Zacatecas with Guadalajara, Jalisco, a common practice used by relatives of missing people to put pressure on the authorities. They are children, they are all students. They tried to extort us, but we did not agree to give them the money, that is why we are demonstrating, said the father, asserting that he had received videos from the kidnappers in which the kids can be seen walking up a hill. The Public Prosecutors Office contradicts this version of events with a euphemism: it claims that it was not an abduction but a deprivation of liberty because, according to this account, no one asked for a ransom. Relatives of the victims reject this theory. The search operation involved more than 300 soldiers from the Secretariat of National Defense (Sedena), the National Guard (GN) and police officers from the different communities of Villanueva. But the efforts arrived too late, said the families of the victims. The case is reminiscent of the kidnapping of five other young people last August in Lagos de Moreno, Jalisco. The event shocked the country because of the particular cruelty and brutality shown by the kidnappers, who released a video showing the five childhood friends being forced to torture each other. Disappearances in Mexico now number more than 100,000, and less than 1% of crimes are solved, according to a study by the organization Impunidad Cero. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Annual list recognizes excellence in clinical outcomes, patient experience, and financial health MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- For the sixth consecutive year, El Camino Health has been honored as one of the top performing large community hospitals in the United States. El Camino Health was named one of the nation's 100 Top Hospitals according to an independent quality analysis provided by PINC AI and reported by Fortune. "We are extremely honored to have earned a spot among the top 100 hospitals in the country for the sixth time," said Dan Woods, chief executive officer of El Camino Health. "The entire El Camino Health team is committed to caring for patients every day and they deserve to be recognized for their leading-edge, high-quality, patient-centered care. We are dedicated to providing world-class care to those in our community and we couldn't be prouder to receive this recognition." El Camino Health is also the only hospital in California to earn an additional distinction as an Everest Award winner, and just one of 29 hospitals nationwide to receive this prestigious honor. Everest Award winners represent a special group of the 100 Top Hospitals recipients that have also been showcased for achieving a top rate of improvement. Using a five-year (2017 -2021) trending methodology, recipients of the Everest Award have shown the fastest, most consistent improvement rates on the same balanced scorecard of performance measures. Both the 100 Top Hospitals program and the Everest Award reflect performance across the whole organization, including clinical, operational, financial, and patient perception. 100 Top Hospitals program performance This year, based on comparisons between the study winners and a peer group of similar hospitals that were not winners, the analysis found that the winners of the 100 Top Hospitals program delivered better outcomes while operating more efficiently and at a lower cost. Compared to non-winning hospitals, this year's winners had: 31 percent fewer deaths than non-winning hospitals. 9 percent fewer patients with complications. 39 percent fewer healthcare associated infections (HAIs). Nearly 20 percent lower inpatient expenses per discharge. 0.5-day shorter average length of stay. Better reported patient experience scores, with a top-box Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) score of 77 percent versus 70 percent for non-winning hospitals. "As hospitals continue to share the nation's focus on changing healthcare for the better, hospitals and health systems are recognizing the importance of identifying areas within their walls for quality improvement," said Leigh Anderson, Premier's chief operating officer and the leader of PINC AI. "The transparent and nonbiased measures this study provides, helps leaders make informed decisions for change, and proves that El Camino Health excels across a range of core performance indicators, which can directly lead to significantly higher quality patient outcomes, with fewer readmissions and complications." For more information, click here. About El Camino Health El Camino Health has served the communities of Santa Clara County for more than 60 years, with nationally recognized physicians and nurses at two not-for-profit acute care hospitals in Los Gatos and Mountain View, and primary care, multi-specialty care, and urgent care locations across the region. El Camino Health is dedicated to giving patients high-quality care utilizing the most advanced technology and research, delivering results first and respect always. Aside from achieving outstanding patient outcomes, the hospitals have earned numerous awards for clinical excellence, including being named one of the World's Best Hospitals 2023 by Newsweek and becoming the San Francisco Bay Area's first Magnet hospital, earning four consecutive designations from the American Nurses Credentialing Center for nursing excellence. Key service lines include cancer care, cardiovascular care, maternity care, mental health and addiction services, orthopedics, pulmonology, urology, and women's health. Visit elcaminohealth.org to learn more. Media Contact Ross Coyle, senior external communications specialist, El Camino Health [email protected] 650-988-7452 SOURCE El Camino Health SIAEP has provided MRO services for the first-generation E-Jets since 2017 SINGAPORE, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Embraer (B3: EMBR3, NYSE: ERJ) announced that it has signed a Non-Binding Memorandum of Understanding ("MoU") with SIAEP, a subsidiary of SIA Engineering Company Limited ("SIAEC"), that will explore further partnership to include maintenance, repair and overhaul ("MRO") services for Embraer's E-Jets E2 family of aircraft. SIAEP has been an authorized service center in Asia-Pacific for Embraer's first-generation E-Jets since 2017. "We would like to recognize SIAEP for their years of dedication and support rendered to Embraer's E-Jet operators in the region," said Mr. Frank Stevens, Vice President of Global MRO Centers for Embraer. "This MoU lays a good foundation for us to discuss further support of the growing E-Jets E2 fleet in the region, in addition to the established footprint of E-Jets in APAC." Mr. Jeremy Yew, SIAEC's Senior Vice President Base Maintenance, said, "We look forward to exploring with Embraer the possibility of extending SIAEP's existing partnership with them to include the provision of quality and efficient base maintenance services to support the E2 fleet in Asia-Pacific". Embraer has a global footprint of E-Jet operators - more than 80 airlines across 50 countries, totaling over 1,700 deliveries of the E-Jets and E-Jets E2 families of aircraft. In Asia-Pacific this year, Scoot and SKS Airways (Malaysia), announced the selection of the E190-E2 and E195-E2 aircraft to complement their existing fleet. Image: https://embraer.bynder.com/share/DE7F93B8-6D01-4B86-A542E029B19C9A91/ About SIA Engineering Company (Company Registration No. 198201025C) www.siaec.com.sg SIA Engineering Company (SIAEC) is a major provider of aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services in Asia-Pacific. SIAEC has a client base of more than 80 international carriers and aerospace equipment manufacturers. It provides line maintenance services at over 30 airports in 8 countries, as well as airframe, engine and component services on some of the most advanced and widely used commercial aircraft in the world. The 23 subsidiaries and joint ventures with original equipment manufacturers and strategic partners in Singapore, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, the United States of America and Vietnam increase the depth and breadth of the Company's service offerings. SIAEC has approvals from 29 national aviation regulatory authorities to provide MRO services for aircraft registered in the United States of America, Europe, China and other countries. About SIA Engineering (Philippines) Corporation SIA Engineering (Philippines) Corporation (SIAEP) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of SIAEC. SIAEP has three hangars at its MRO facility located at Clark, Philippines, and a suite of capabilities including aircraft certification, scheduled heavy maintenance checks, airframe structural inspections, repairs, modifications, paint-stripping, painting of aircraft exteriors and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) checks. It has key approvals from 18 national aviation regulatory authorities such as the Civil Aviation Authority of Philippines, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, the Federal Aviation Administration, the European Aviation Safety Agency and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority Australia. About Embraer Embraer is a global aerospace company headquartered in Brazil. It manufactures aircraft for Commercial and Executive aviation, Defense & Security, and Agricultural customers. The company also provides after-sales services & support through a worldwide network of wholly-owned entities and authorized agents. Since it was founded in 1969, Embraer has delivered more than 8,000 aircraft. On average, about every 10 seconds an aircraft manufactured by Embraer takes off somewhere in the world. The aircraft transport over 145 million passengers per year. Embraer is the leading manufacturer of commercial jets up to 150 seats and is the main exporter of high value-added goods in Brazil. The company maintains industrial units, offices, service and parts distribution centers across the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Europe. SOURCE Embraer S.A. With the highest scores across most metrics and significant leads above competitors and market averages, EPAM has differentiated itself as a top IT service provider in the Swiss market NEWTOWN, Pa., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- EPAM Systems, Inc. (NYSE: EPAM), a leading digital transformation services and product engineering company, today announced it has been named a Top IT Sourcing Vendor in Switzerland, achieving the highest percentile customer satisfaction rankings across multiple industry sectors and evaluation criteria by Whitelane Research, an independent organization focused on IT sourcing research across Europe. This latest recognition reflects EPAM's superior differentiation in customer satisfaction ratings, having achieved the highest scores across satisfaction, delivery, relationship and innovation metrics in the Swiss IT sourcing market. EPAM was recognized as the highest-ranked IT service provider in general satisfaction, digital transformation and application services in Whitelane Researchs 2023 IT Sourcing Survey for Switzerland "We are delighted to be recognized as the highest-ranked IT service provider in general satisfaction, digital transformation and application services in Whitelane Research's 2023 IT Sourcing Survey for Switzerland," said Enver Amdiy, VP, Switzerland Business Unit Head at EPAM. "We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our clients for their continued trust, which has been instrumental in achieving these outstanding customer satisfaction ratings. Their confidence reinforces our commitment to continue delivering on our client-centric account management and service excellence promise, as we continue to support them in accelerating their transformative innovation journeys." In Whitelane Research's 2023 annual IT sourcing study, more than 140 CIOs from the top IT spending organizations in Switzerland evaluated more than 340 unique IT sourcing relationships based on key performance indicators and by IT domain, delivering one of the most representative reports on the outsourcing market in Switzerland. Survey respondents evaluated 18 IT service providers across various performance categories, with EPAM achieving exceptional performer satisfaction ratings in the following categories: Account Management Quality: EPAM received a rating of 92% EPAM received a rating of 92% Service Delivery Quality: EPAM received a rating of 88% EPAM received a rating of 88% Digital Transformation: EPAM received a rating of 86% EPAM received a rating of 86% General Satisfaction: EPAM received a rating of 84% EPAM received a rating of 84% Application Services: EPAM received a rating of 84% EPAM received a rating of 84% Transformative Innovation: EPAM received a rating of 80% "EPAM has received excellent scores in this year's survey from their clients in Switzerland, leading to an exceptional performer ranking in several assessment criteria," said Jef Loos, Head of Research, Europe at Whitelane Research. "EPAM's clients have shown their appreciation for the Company's committed account management teams, who demonstrate strong engineering and technical capabilities and a positive customer-centric mindset. This is an outstanding result for EPAM." Recognized by Whitelane Research and clients for superior customer satisfaction, EPAM helps customers in Switzerland and beyond scale and transform across multiple industries through its innovative strategy, integrated advisory, consulting and design capabilities. This new recognition underscores EPAM's ongoing efforts in bringing to market the latest digital transformation services, product design and engineering capabilities to meet the growing technology modernization requirements of Switzerland-based customers. In September 2022, EPAM gained recognition from Whitelane Research as a top IT sourcing vendor in Switzerland. In March 2023, EPAM was acknowledged by Whitelane Research as a top IT sourcing vendor in the Netherlands, and in April 2023, EPAM received similar recognition as a top IT sourcing vendor in the Nordics. To see the full survey results, visit: https://whitelane.com/switzerland-2023. About EPAM Systems Since 1993, EPAM Systems, Inc. (NYSE: EPAM) has leveraged its advanced software engineering heritage to become the foremost global digital transformation services provider leading the industry in digital and physical product development and digital platform engineering services. Through its innovative strategy; integrated advisory, consulting, and design capabilities; and unique 'Engineering DNA,' EPAM's globally deployed hybrid teams help make the future real for clients and communities around the world by powering better enterprise, education and health platforms that connect people, optimize experiences, and improve people's lives. In 2021, EPAM was added to the S&P 500 and included among the list of Forbes Global 2000 companies. Selected by Newsweek as a 2021, 2022 and 2023 Most Loved Workplace, EPAM's global multi-disciplinary teams serve customers in more than 50 countries across six continents. As a recognized leader, EPAM is listed among the top 15 companies in Information Technology Services on the Fortune 1000 and ranked four times as the top IT services company on Fortune's 100 Fastest Growing Companies list. EPAM is also listed among Ad Age's top 25 World's Largest Agency Companies for three consecutive years, and Consulting Magazine named EPAM Continuum a top 20 Fastest Growing Firm. Learn more at www.epam.com and follow EPAM on Twitter and LinkedIn. Forward-Looking Statement This press release includes estimates and statements which may constitute forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, the accuracy of which are necessarily subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. Our estimates and forward-looking statements are mainly based on our current expectations and estimates of future events and trends, which affect or may affect our business and operations. These statements may include words such as "may," "will," "should," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "estimate" or similar expressions. Those future events and trends may relate to, among other things, developments relating to the war in Ukraine and escalation of the war in the surrounding region, political and civil unrest or military action in the geographies where we conduct business and operate, difficult conditions in global capital markets, foreign exchange markets and the broader economy, and the effect that these events may have on our revenues, operations, access to capital, and profitability. Other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied include general economic conditions, the risk factors discussed in the Company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and the factors discussed in the Company's Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, particularly under the headings "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and "Risk Factors" and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Although we believe that these estimates and forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, they are subject to several risks and uncertainties and are made based on information currently available to us. EPAM 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 under applicable securities law. SOURCE EPAM Systems, Inc. DUBLIN, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Europe Infusion Therapy Market Size, Share & COVID19 Impact Analysis 2023-2029 MedSuite Includes: Infusion Pumps, Intravenous Sets, Needless Connectors, Stopcocks & Blood Transfusion Sets" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. In 2022, the European market for infusion therapy devices achieved a valuation of $1.1 billion. Over the forecast period, it is expected to experience significant growth, reaching a value of at least 1.3 billion by 2029. This extensive medical market research encompassed a comprehensive analysis of 46 infusion therapy firms operating within the European landscape. Employing our meticulous methodology, we gleaned valuable insights into market dimensions, unit sales, company market standings, and generated precise forecasts. Our complete report suite on the European infusion therapy devices market encompasses six distinct categories: infusion pumps, intravenous (IV) sets, needleless connectors (NLCs), IV filters, stopcocks, and blood transfusion sets. Each category undergoes further segmentation based on specific distinguishing criteria. The infusion pump market is categorized by the type of infusion, including large-volume pumps, syringe pumps, patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pumps, electronic ambulatory pumps, and disposable ambulatory pumps. Furthermore, each sub-segment of pumps is meticulously segmented by care settings. The IV set market follows suit, being segmented by tubing type, such as pump IV sets, gravity IV sets, secondary IV sets, and IV extension sets. These IV set types are also stratified by care settings. As for the needleless connector market, it undergoes segmentation based on displacement type, encompassing negative, positive, neutral, and anti-reflux neutral displacement connectors. Additionally, this market is segmented by device type (standalone and integrated) and care settings. Insights into the Infusion Therapy Market: The increasing elderly population in Europe serves as a major driver for the infusion therapy device market. With the aging demographic, there is a heightened demand for frequent and chronic treatments, thereby leading to an upsurge in the need for infusion therapy devices. This trend is poised to stimulate growth in both the disposable and capital equipment markets, resulting in an escalation of unit sales during the forecast period. The growing requirement for these devices in chronic treatment settings further bolsters market expansion. Over the past half-decade, European nations have exhibited a substantial inclination toward the rapid adoption of needleless connectors within the market. This surge in interest can be attributed to the manifold advantages these connectors offer. A key benefit lies in the enhanced patient safety they afford by reducing the risk of needlestick injuries and associated infections. Furthermore, needleless connectors elevate convenience and efficiency by facilitating easier access and administration of medications, thus diminishing the necessity for multiple needle insertions. These advantages have played a pivotal role in propelling the widespread adoption of needleless connectors across Europe. Market Share Insights into Infusion Therapy: In the year 2022, B. Braun emerged as the frontrunner in the European infusion therapy device market. The company achieved significant revenue figures in the IV set and infusion pump segments, while also dominating the stopcocks market. B. Braun's capability to offer a comprehensive array of infusion therapy products tailored to diverse consumer needs has underpinned its robust market position. Securing the second position among the leading contenders in the European infusion therapy device market in 2022 was Becton Dickinson. The company actively participated in various segments covered in this report, demonstrating notable strength in the needleless connector market. Fresenius Kabi secured the third position among the top competitors in the European infusion therapy device market, primarily due to its cost-effective manufacturing, which has allowed hospitals and group purchasing organizations (GPOs) to enjoy more favorable pricing. DATA TYPES INCLUDED Unit Sales, Average Selling Prices, Market Value & Growth Trends Market Forecasts Until 2029, and Historical Data to 2019 Market Drivers & Limiters for Each Infusion Therapy market Competitive Analysis with Market Shares for Each Segment Recent Mergers & Acquisitions COVID19 Impact On the European Infusion Therapy Market Procedure Numbers Disease Overviews and Demographic Information Company Profiles, Product Portfolios and SWOT for Top Competitors SEGMENTS COVERED Infusion Pump Market - MedCore - The market analysis is further broken down by: Product Type: Large Volume Pumps, Syringe Pumps, Patient-Controlled Analgesia Pumps, Electronic Ambulatory Pumps, and Disposable Ambulatory Pumps; Care Setting: Acute and Alternate Care Settings. Intravenous Set Market - MedCore - The market is comprised of the segments broken down by: Product Type: Tubing Type, Pump Sets, Gravity Sets, Secondary Sets, and Extension Sets; Care Setting: Acute and Alternate Care Settings Needleless Connector Market - MedCore - The market is further segmented by: Displacement Type: Negative, Positive, and Neutral Displacement; Delivery Type: Standalone and Integrated; Care Setting: Acute and Alternate Care Settings. Stopcock Market - MedCore - The in-depth analysis of the Stopcock Market. Blood Transfusion Set Market - MedCore - The chapter provides an overview of the Blood Transfusion Set market. IV Filters Market - MedCore Key Topics Covered: Executive Summary European Infusion Therapy Device Market Overview Competitive Analysis Market Trends Market Developments Markets Included Key Report Updates Version History Research Methodology Impact of Covid-19 on the European Infusion Therapy Device Market Country Profile Analysis by Market Segment Worst Case Scenario Base Case Scenario Best Case Scenario Disease Overview Disease Treatment and Diagnostic Cancer Congestive Heart Failure Crohn's Disease Hemophilia Multiple Sclerosis Patient Demographics Congestive Heart Failure Crohn's Disease Hemophilia Multiple Sclerosis Cancer Breast Cancer Colon and Rectum Leukemia Lungs and Bronchus Pancreas Product Assessment Introduction Product Portfolios Infusion Pump Intravenous Sets Pump Sets Gravity Sets Secondary Sets Extension Sets Needleless Connectors Split Septum and Blunt Cannula Mechanical Valves Negative Displacement Mechanical Valves Positive Displacement Mechanical Valves Neutral Displacement Mechanical Valves Anti-Reflux Neutral Displacement Mechanical Valves Antimicrobial Needleless Connectors Stopcocks Intravenous Filters Blood Transfusion Devices Regulatory Issues and Recalls Infusion Pump Intravenous Sets Needleless Connector Stopcocks Blood Transfusion Devices Clinical Trials Infusion Pump Needleless Connectors Blood Transfusion Devices European Infusion Therapy Device Market Overview Introduction Currency Exchange Rate Market Overview & Trend Analysis Drivers and Limiters Market Drivers Market Limiters Competitive Market Share Analysis Mergers and Acquisitions Company Profiles Avanos Medical B. Braun Baxter Becton Dickinson Belmont Medical Codan Fresenius Gvs Group Icu Medical Vygon Avanos Medical B. Braun Baxter Becton Dickinson Belmont Medical Codan Fresenius Gvs Group Icu Medical Vygon Country Profiles Introduction Population Gdp Per Capita Price Index Germany France United Kingdom Italy Spain Benelux Scandinavia Austria Switzerland Portugal For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/as5thh About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg SOURCE Research and Markets Nationally, in 2022, Patients Aged 31-40 Ranked Highest among Age Groups for Percentage of Claim Lines for Opioid Abuse and Dependence NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today FAIR Health launched the Opioid Tracker, a free, interactive tool tracking opioid abuse and dependence state by state. A brief released simultaneously offers a user's guide to the Opioid Tracker. View PDF The FAIR Health Opioid Tracker A Helpful Users Guide A FAIR Health Brief, September 28, 2023 Available on FAIR Health's website fairhealth.org, the Opioid Tracker includes a heat map representing opioid abuse and dependence claim lines as a percentage of all medical claim lines in 2022 state by state.1 Clicking on a state displays an infographic for that state. The infographic includes the top five procedure codes by utilization for opioid abuse and dependence, the top five procedure codes by aggregate allowed amounts for opioid abuse and dependence,2 the change in opioid abuse and dependence claim lines as a percentage of all medical claim lines from 2018 to 2022, and diagnoses of opioid abuse and dependence by age and gender. There is also a similar infographic for the nation as a whole. The source of the data is FAIR Health's repository of over 42 billion private healthcare claim records, the largest such repository in the nation. Among the key findings revealed by the Opioid Tracker: In 2022, H0020 (methadone administration and/or service) had the highest utilization nationally of all procedure codes for opioid abuse and dependence, representing 21.6 percent of claim lines for all such procedure codes. Ranking in first place by total spending nationally for opioid abuse and dependence, H0018 (behavioral health short-term residential treatment program, no room and board, per diem) accounted for 9.8 percent of aggregate allowed amounts attributable to procedure codes for opioid abuse and dependence in 2022. Nationally, the percentage of medical claim lines for opioid abuse and dependence from 2018 to 2022 showed an overall decline, from 0.254 percent in 2018 to 0.196 percent in 2022. However, a number of states showed an increase in that percentageincluding Arizona , Georgia , Indiana and Rhode Island , among others. , , and , among others. Nationally, in 2022, patients aged 31 to 40 were the age group with the highest percentage of opioid abuse and dependence claim lines, 31.1 percent. Nationally, in 2022, males accounted for 62.5 percent of claim lines with opioid abuse and dependence diagnoses, while females accounted for 37.5 percent. The Opioid Tracker is the latest addition to FAIR Health's series of trackers offering geographic windows into healthcare data. The series also includes the Monthly Telehealth Regional Tracker, which tracks telehealth utilization by region across the nation; and the Cost of Giving Birth Tracker, which shows state-specific and national median costs for vaginal deliveries and C-sections. FAIR Health President Robin Gelburd stated: "The Opioid Tracker sheds light on multiple aspects of opioid abuse and dependence, including utilization, costs, age and gender. We hope that the Opioid Tracker will be useful to all healthcare stakeholders, such as policy makers, payors, providers, patients and researchers, as they continue to track and seek to better understand and address this public health issue." For the Opioid Tracker, click here. For the user's guide to the Opioid Tracker, click here. Follow us on Twitter @FAIRHealth About FAIR Health FAIR Health is a national, independent nonprofit organization that qualifies as a public charity under section 501(c)(3) of the federal tax code. It is dedicated to bringing transparency to healthcare costs and health insurance information through data products, consumer resources and health systems research support. FAIR Health possesses the nation's largest collection of private healthcare claims data, which includes over 42 billion claim records and is growing at a rate of over 2 billion claim records a year. FAIR Health licenses its privately billed data and data productsincluding benchmark modules, data visualizations, custom analytics and market indicesto commercial insurers and self-insurers, employers, providers, hospitals and healthcare systems, government agencies, researchers and others. Certified by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) as a national Qualified Entity, FAIR Health also receives data representing the experience of all individuals enrolled in traditional Medicare Parts A, B and D; FAIR Health includes among the private claims data in its database, data on Medicare Advantage enrollees. FAIR Health can produce insightful analytic reports and data products based on combined Medicare and commercial claims data for government, providers, payors and other authorized users. FAIR Health's systems for processing and storing protected health information have earned HITRUST CSF certification and achieved AICPA SOC 2 Type 2 compliance by meeting the rigorous data security requirements of these standards. As a testament to the reliability and objectivity of FAIR Health data, the data have been incorporated in statutes and regulations around the country and designated as the official, neutral data source for a variety of state health programs, including workers' compensation and personal injury protection (PIP) programs. FAIR Health data serve as an official reference point in support of certain state balance billing laws that protect consumers against bills for surprise out-of-network and emergency services. FAIR Health also uses its database to power a free consumer website available in English and Spanish, which enables consumers to estimate and plan for their healthcare expenditures and offers a rich educational platform on health insurance. An English/Spanish mobile app offers the same educational platform in a concise format and links to the cost estimation tools. The website has been honored by the White House Summit on Smart Disclosure, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), URAC, the eHealthcare Leadership Awards, appPicker, Employee Benefit News and Kiplinger's Personal Finance. FAIR Health also is named a top resource for patients in Dr. Elisabeth Rosenthal's book An American Sickness: How Healthcare Became Big Business and How You Can Take It Back. For more information on FAIR Health, visit fairhealth.org. Contact: Rachel Kent Senior Director of Communications and Marketing FAIR Health 646-396-0795 [email protected] 1 A claim line is an individual service or procedure listed on an insurance claim. 2 An allowed amount is the total negotiated, in-network fee paid to the provider under an insurance plan. It includes the amount that the health plan pays and the part the patient pays under the plan's in-network cost-sharing provisions (e.g., copay or coinsurance if the patient has met the deductible). SOURCE FAIR Health TAIPEI, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Foundation for International Cooperation in Higher Education of Taiwan (FICHET) announced that it sent a delegation, led by FICHET Chairperson Cheng-Chih Wu, to attend the 33rd Annual European Association for International Education (EAIE) Conference and Exhibition. As the largest and most representative international education exchange event in Europe, the Conference took place in Rotterdam from September 26 to 29. The delegation included over 50 representatives from across 24 higher education institutions including 23 Taiwanese universities and FICHET. EAIE "Taiwan's robust presence at the Annual EAIE 2023 Conference underscored our commitment to academic partnerships across borders, particularly with European countries," noted Chairperson Wu. "Our dual presence, both physical and virtual, showcased the dynamic and innovative spirit of Taiwan's higher education sector. Through initiatives like Taiwan Night and the expansion of Taiwan-EU scholarships, we bridged continents and academic communities for a more interconnected world." Embracing this year's conference theme of "Connecting Currents," FICHET's Study in Taiwan brand, which facilitates international students pursuing higher education in Taiwan, had a presence both physically at the venue and virtually on the EAIE Virtual Platform. The virtual booth highlighted the many opportunities for study and research in Taiwan's higher education institutions, both online and offline, thereby showcasing the range of innovation and technological prowess of Taiwan's higher education industry. To further encourage cross-border relationship building, FICHET hosted the "Taiwan Night" networking banquet at the Mainport Hotel. This social event served as a convivial occasion for Taiwanese universities in the delegation to interact and engage with key partners and representatives of sister schools. Around 100 universities representatives attended, and the event aimed to strengthen relationships with partner schools while showcasing Taiwan's warm hospitality and cultural spirit. Taiwan has been continuously promoting academic exchange with European countries in the past several years through several measures, such as the "Ministry of Education EU Scholarship", the "New Erasmus Program", and the "Taiwan-Europe Connection Scholarship." Recently, the "Taiwan-Europe Connection Scholarship" was expanded to offer up to 700 scholarship opportunities to partner universities and their students. About FICHET Founded in 2005, the Foundation for International Cooperation in Higher Education of Taiwan (FICHET) fosters collaborations between its 119 member institutions and international universities in order to promote studying in Taiwan and foster cross-border higher-education synergies. For more information, please visit https://www.fichet.org.tw/en/. CONTACT: Vicky Chou, [email protected], +886-02-23222280 Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2222970/EAIE.jpg SOURCE Foundation for International Cooperation in Higher Education of Taiwan (FICHET) Theranica to Unveil Groundbreaking New Real-World Data for Nerivio, a Novel Drug-Free Device for Acute and Preventive Treatment of Migraine NETANYA, Israel and BRIDGEWATER, N.J., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Theranica, a neuromodulation therapeutics company, is exhibiting and presenting at the upcoming 52nd Annual Child Neurology Society Meeting (CNS)(Booth #209), where they will present Nerivio, the first and only dual-use (acute and preventive) migraine neuroband purpose-built for adolescents with migraine disease. Nerivio is indicated for dual-use in people 12 years and older "Due to limited prescription medications in the treatment of migraine disease in children and adolescents, it is important to have safe and well-tolerated non-medication options," says Rashmi Rao, MD, Pediatric Neurologist at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center/Children's Hospital New Orleans. "Reducing disability and frequency of migraine attacks in children and adolescents improves their quality of life and potentially decreases risk of conversion to chronic migraine. The recent expanded indication of the Nerivio migraine neuroband represents a distinctive dual-use treatment to reduce the occurrence of migraine episodes and relief their symptoms upon onset." Migraine disease affects 1 billion people worldwide, 10 percent of which are children, with far-reaching consequences that can't be ignored. Many prescription medications used for migraine treatment were not originally developed for or evaluated in adolescents, and they often come with poor tolerability and disruptive side effects. Migraine attacks can result in school absenteeism, loss of ability to participate in peer activities, and long-term psychosocial consequences. Living with migraine disease has a significant negative impact on the well-being of adolescents. According to Alon Ironi, the CEO and co-founder of Theranica, "Our goal at Theranica has always been focused on addressing significant unmet clinical needs. We've taken a simple approach: address the problem without creating new ones, and focus on developing migraine therapy that's safe, easy to use, and is proven to work in adolescents. As a father of a daughter diagnosed with migraine, I was personally determined to achieve this goal." "At this year's CNS Meeting, we will present new clinical data that shows how the Nerivio migraine neuroband can empower adolescents to safely and effectively prevent and treat migraine, allowing them to fully participate in daily activities," explained Alit Stark-Inbar, Theranica's Vice President of Medical Information. "Massive real-world evidence continues to demonstrate how Nerivio can provide a personalized foundation for complete a migraine care as adolescents transition into adulthood." CNS Product Theater Adolescent Migraine: From Burden to Treatment Thursday, October 5th, 1PM - 2 PM PST. in the Vancouver Convention Centre Exhibit Hall. Dr. Marielle Kabboche Samaha, Director, Acute and Inpatient Headache Program at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, will be presenting on the burden of migraines on adolescents and their families. Dr. Rashmi Rao will provide a detailed overview of the clinical aspects of approved treatments for migraine disease in adolescents, including remote electrical neuromodulation (REN) with Nerivio, that induces the body's conditioned pain modulation (CPM) response. Poster Presentation Two posters will be presented showcasing new and compelling clinical data about treating adolescents with migraine with Nerivio: Poster #307: Remote Electrical Neuromodulation (REN) for acute treatment of migraine in adolescents suggests preventive benefits. Poster #301: Acute Treatment of Migraine in Pre-Adolescents: Real-World Analysis of Remote Electrical Neuromodulation (REN). Two guided poster tours will be held on Thursday, October 5th in the exhibit hall, one at 12:30 PM 2:00 PM, and the other at 5:30 PM 7:00 PM (Including Wine & Cheese). About the Nerivio Migraine Neuroband Controlled by a smartphone app and self-administered, Nerivio wraps around the upper arm and uses sub-painful Remote Electrical Neuromodulation (REN) to activate nociceptive nerve fibers in the arm to send signals which trigger a descending pain management mechanism in the brain called conditioned pain modulation (CPM), which turns off migraine pain and associated symptoms without medication. In simpler terms, the upper arm is stimulated to unleash a natural process in the brain to abort or relieve migraine headaches and other associated symptoms. Each treatment lasts 45 minutes and is applied every other day for prevention or at the start of a migraine attack for acute treatment. About Theranica Theranica is a neuromodulation therapeutics company dedicated to creating effective, safe, affordable, low-side-effect therapies for idiopathic pain conditions. The company's award-winning flagship wearable, Nerivio, is the first FDA-cleared and CE-marked prescription migraine neuroband for acute and/or preventive treatment of migraine with or without aura in people 12 years or older. Nerivio has been used for more than 600,000 migraine treatments in the US, including adolescents and veterans with migraine disease. Theranica is expanding its proprietary technology to develop solutions for additional idiopathic pain conditions. Learn more by visiting our websites, theranica.com, and nerivio.com, and following us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Theranica Contact Ronen Jashek [email protected] +972-72-390-9750 Media Contact V.A. Lopes Grey Matter Marketing [email protected] SOURCE Theranica MELBOURNE, Australia, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- FlexRule, a leading Decision Management Suite, is proud to announce that its Decision-Centric Approach has been officially trademarked. The Decision-Centric Approach is a methodology that brings people, rules, data, and processes together to ensure organizations can consistently make optimized, customer-centric, and situation-aware business decisions while they meet the objectives on revenue, costs, and mitigating risks. The approach is designed to empower organizations to identify patterns and trends, uncover hidden opportunities, and make business decisions that will lead to long-term success. FlexRule's Decision-Centric Approach empowers organizations to look at the problem from different angles and look at the challenges from their business decisions impacting their customers and their people. Decision-Centric Approach enables them to use the right technology to make quality decisions, at the right time while ensuring business decisions are delivering real business values aligned with business objectives. Additionally, this ensures teams can avoid type 3 errors, solving the wrong problem that is not important for organizations. Together with FlexRule Advanced Decision Management Suite, organizations are able to build Decision Blueprints for the outcomes they desire to achieve. This increases organizations' ability to adapt and adjust in changing environments by ensuring relevance, increasing flexibility, and establishing transparency. "We are thrilled to have our Decision-Centric Approach officially trademarked," said Arash Aghlara, CEO of FlexRule. " 'Quick ACT' is what you expect when decision-centric organizations approach business decisions as the first-class citizen of their organization. As a result, the business decisions' outcomes are Quick, Accurate, Consistent and Transparent (Quick ACT). This is the only way to ensure the quality of business decisions. Focusing solely or starting with data, algorithms, technologies, systems or business processes can cause business decisions to become an afterthought." About FlexRule: FlexRule is founded to empower all business, operation, and technology leaders to improve the speed and quality of critical business decisions in a changing environment. FlexRule provides both the Decision Management suite guided by the methodology called DECISION-CENTRIC APPROACH to empower organizations to adapt their business decisions in changing environments effectively and efficiently. With an innovative and future-thinking approach, FlexRule reduces the complexity of technology and makes these advanced decision-making technologies more accessible to everyone in the organization. Press Contact: Goli Tajadod FlexRule [email protected] +1(323)9996039 SOURCE FlexRule DAYTON, Ohio, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Flying Ace Express Car Wash, the Miami Valley's premier express car wash, is thrilled to announce its continued growth with the groundbreaking of two new locations in the Dayton, OH area. These state-of-the-art car wash facilities will be strategically positioned on Brandt Pike in Dayton and adjacent to the Meijer store at 4035 Wilmington Pike in Kettering. The groundbreaking of these respective washes expands the Flying Ace Express Car Wash brand to 16 car washes in the Greater Dayton area; a significant milestone in Flying Ace Express Car Wash's mission to provide top-tier car wash services to the Dayton community. Construction is expected to wrap up in late winter or early spring, with doors opening to customers shortly thereafter. Flying Ace Express Car Wash is known for its commitment to delivering the ultimate car washing experience, combining outstanding customer service, convenience, and exceptional quality. The Company has consistently been named Dayton's #1 car wash according to Dayton Daily News and Dayton Magazine. The two new Flying Ace Express locations will continue this tradition, offering an unmatched level of care for your vehicle. Key features of the new Flying Ace Express Car Wash locations: 7730 Brandt Pike in Dayton: This location will feature cutting-edge car wash technology, including the popular express wash options and free vacuums. The Flying Ace Express Car Wash on Brandt Pike will become the go-to destination for Dayton residents looking to keep their vehicles in pristine condition. 4035 Wilmington Pike in Kettering: Located conveniently next to the Meijer store on Wilmington Pike in Kettering, this Flying Ace Express Car Wash location will offer the same high-quality car washing experience that customers have come to expect. With a commitment to eco-friendly practices and water conservation, this facility will be a testament to Flying Ace's dedication to sustainability. "We are excited to expand our presence in the Dayton area with these new car wash locations," said John Roush, CEO of Express Wash Concepts, the parent company of Flying Ace Express Car Wash. "We look forward to continuing our investment in the Dayton community. Our goal is to provide customers with the best car washing experience possible, and these two new locations will allow us to do just that.." Flying Ace Express Car Wash places a strong emphasis on environmentally responsible practices and water conservation, using the latest technology to minimize its environmental footprint while delivering exceptional results. Stay tuned for further updates and information on the opening dates for these exciting new Flying Ace Express Car Wash locations. About Flying Ace Express Car Wash: Flying Ace Car Wash , part of the Express Wash Concepts family of brands, is a leading provider of top-quality car wash services. With multiple locations in the greater Dayton, OH and Richmond, IN areas. Flying Ace Car Wash combines advanced technology, eco-friendly practices, and exceptional customer service to deliver an outstanding car wash experience. About Express Wash Concepts: Express Wash Concepts is a trusted name in the car wash industry, operating over 90 car wash locations with five car wash brands including: Moo Moo Express Car Wash , Flying Ace Express Car Wash , Bee Clean Express Car Wash , Clean Express Auto Wash and Green Clean Express Auto Wash . With a focus on customer satisfaction, environmental sustainability, and cutting-edge technology, Express Wash Concepts aims to redefine the car wash experience. SOURCE Express Wash Concepts WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In an effort organized by Adam Mossoff of the Hudson Institute's Forum for Intellectual Property, 25 of the nation's leading scholars, former judges, and former senior government officials sent a letter to U.S. senators correcting false claims that the federal government can use two patent laws, the Bayh-Dole Act and 28 U.S.C. 1498, to impose price controls on prescription drugs. "The Bayh-Dole Act and 28 U.S.C. 1498 are not price-control laws," said Adam Mossoff, professor of law at the Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University. "Unfortunately, some academics and activists are attempting to distort the plain text of these laws to impose drug price controls. These efforts undermine the function of both statutes, which is to secure the patent protections critical to U.S. technological leadership and national security." The 1980 Bayh-Dole Act gave universities and other research institutions the right to own and patent promising inventions made with the help of federal funding. The law has helped transform hundreds of university discoveries into life-improving products while supporting countless startups ranging from Google to biotech firms. As its namesake authors -- Senators Birch Bayh (D-Ind.) and Bob Dole (R-Kan.) -- have said, the law was never envisioned as a tool to set prices. Congress passed 28 U.S.C. 1498 over a century ago to resolve confusion in the courts concerning government use of patented inventions. The law says patent owners have a right to fair compensation if the government or a contractor violates their patent. Certain activists claim the law authorizes the government to direct any private company to infringe a patent. This blatantly contradicts the plain meaning of 1498 and its interpretation by judges and government officials for over a century. "Elected officials should not give airtime to these partisan theories, which have no basis in law or judicial precedent," said Mossoff. "A series of court decisions and policy missteps have significantly eroded the U.S. patent system in recent years, prompting much-needed reform efforts in Congress. It would be a mistake to further weaken the innovation incentives that drive the U.S. economy." The letter signatories include: Jonathan M. Barnett , Gould School of Law, University of Southern California , Gould School of Law, Honorable Susan G. Braden , U.S. Court of Federal Claims (Retired) , U.S. Court of Federal Claims (Retired) Daniel R. Cahoy , Pennsylvania State University , Honorable Ronald A. Cass , United States International Trade Commission (Former) , United States International Trade Commission (Former) Honorable Walter G. Copan , Former Undersecretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director National Institute of Standards and Technology , Former Undersecretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director National Institute of Standards and Technology Richard A. Epstein , New York University School of Law , Stephen Ezell , Information Technology & Innovation Foundation , Information Technology & Innovation Foundation Bowman Heiden, University of California, Berkeley Chris Holman , UMKC School of Law , UMKC School of Law Keith N. Hylton , Boston University School of Law , School of Law Justin (Gus) Hurwitz , University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School , Carey Law School Honorable Andrei Iancu , United States Patent & Trademark Office (Former) , United States Patent & Trademark Office (Former) Layne Keele , Samford University Cumberland School of Law , Cumberland School of Law Adam MacLeod , St. Mary's University School of Law , School of Law Geoffrey A. Manne , International Center for Law & Economics , International Center for Law & Economics Damon C. Matteo , United States Patent & Trademark Office (Former) , United States Patent & Trademark Office (Former) Honorable Paul R. Michel , United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (Retired) , Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (Retired) Emily Michiko Morris , University of Akron School of Law , School of Law Adam Mossoff , George Mason University , Honorable Kathleen M. O'Malley , United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (Retired) , Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (Retired) Peter Pitts , Center for Medicine in the Public Interest , Center for Medicine in the Public Interest Aurelien Portuese, George Washington University Kristen Osenga , University of Richmond School of Law , School of Law Honorable Randall R. Rader , United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (Retired) , Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (Retired) Ted Sichelman , University of San Diego School of Law . Read the full letter here . The Forum for Intellectual Property supports data-driven research and evidence-based policy discussions on the key role of IP in innovation economies. Media Contact: Samantha Louque (202) 990-1406 366126@email4pr.com SOURCE Forum for IP at the Hudson Institute For the European Union, drug trafficking and the violence it brings with it have long ceased to be a localized issue. The problem extends from Spain to Sweden and Germany, passing through transit countries such as Belgium and the Netherlands, whose ports are the main entry points for cocaine from Latin America into Europe and where political figures from ministers to the heir apparent to the throne of the Netherlands, Catharina-Amalia, Princess of Orange have been threatened by organized crime groups. There is no doubt that more must be done to tackle this menace and, in Brussels this Thursday, the current Spanish presidency of the EU wants to take a decisive step to intensify and, above all, formalize cooperation with Latin America in the fight against cross-border organized crime, especially drug trafficking. Accepting the EU Justice and Home Affairs Councils invitation, 14 Latin American interior and security ministers from the Latin American Committee for Internal Security (CLASI), will attend a long working lunch in Brussels this Thursday, together with their European counterparts and the EU Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson. In the first interregional meeting of ministers of this type since the creation of CLASI, a year and a half ago, formulas will be agreed upon to consolidate and redouble efforts to confront transnational organized crime and its negative effects on societies, according to a draft of the statement (seen by EL PAIS) that will be issued after the meeting. We want a more structured and directional relationship to be established between Latin America and the EU, explains the acting Spanish Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska. The Argentine Minister of Security, Anibal Fernandez, gives an example: A ship with drugs arrives in Antwerp [Belgium], your concern has to be knowing where it came from, and almost all of us know where it came from, he says about the need to share information and cooperate more at all levels. Giving a political boost to this cooperation is more important than ever, Grande-Marlaska emphasized on the eve of the meeting. Because although Europe has been fighting organized crime for years, we can observe, due to the use of new technologies, a paradigm shift in organized crime, which is much more specialized, has many more technological and economic means, and also uses more violence. The dynamics are changing, and the authorities have to be one step ahead and move and improve the things that we have to improve, that is why this meeting is very important for us, agrees the Minister of the Interior of Ecuador, Juan Ernesto Zapata. Presiding over CLASI since May this year, Zapata summarizes the organizations priorities as: coordination, exchange of information and logistical support to jointly confront drug trafficking. To this end, the EU and CLASI are committed to a multidisciplinary approach to combat all aspects of transnational organized crime. At Thursdays meeting, a schedule of future meetings will also be agreed upon, both at ministerial and technical levels, to create a culture of mutual cooperation that involves, among other things, promoting and streamlining the exchange of police and judicial information, as well as the application of best practices and even operational plans, or even including the gender perspective as an important element of the joint fight against serious and organized crime. There is also consensus to promote the institutionalization of Ameripol, the mechanism that aims to promote cooperation between law enforcement in the Americas, inspired by Europol, but which still lacks the institutional framework to be a forceful instrument in the fight against organized crime in the region. We are already moving slowly, says Fernandez, who recalls that Ameripols statute has been ready for a year and that he says he is confident that this Thursdays meeting will provide the political acceleration that is missing. The event, which has the support of the EUs 27 member states, has been promoted by Spain which, since assuming the rotating presidency of the EU in July, has wanted to resume and strengthen ties with Latin America by organizing the first EU-CELAC summit in eight years that same month. The fight against drug trafficking, a scourge that affects both regions, will be at the center of the talks seeking ways not only to reduce the supply of drugs, but also demand and the damage they cause to public health. To this end, the joint statement points out, the aim is to promote greater exchange of information and intelligence, through joint operations that involve financial investigations and encouraging action against the illicit drug trade that is oriented toward development, including alternative development. It is also a perfect time to take this step because, as European sources point out, after Spain, the six-monthly European presidency will pass to Belgium. The country also suffers from this scourge due to its geographical location and the fact that Antwerp is one of the main European points of entry for Latin American cocaine. In the past, the final destination or most desirable markets were in the United States. Now, 80% of all the drugs that leave Ecuador have a European market, says Zapata. Attempted kidnapping of a minister At the end of 2022, it was revealed that the Belgian Minister of Justice, Vincent Van Quickenborne and his family had to take refuge in a secret location after an organized crime kidnapping attempt. Similarly, in the Netherlands, the heir to the Dutch throne, Princess Catharina-Amalia has also been living under strict security measures for almost a year due to threats from organized crime groups. It is a problem that is also increasingly worrying countries like Germany and even Sweden, which has seen how its southernmost ports become new entry points for drugs due to greater controls in Antwerp and Rotterdam. Sweden has become a transit country for drug trafficking, the head of the Swedish Customs criminal division, Erik Friberg, confirmed this summer. According to EU data, in 2019, income in major crime markets amounted to 139 billion ($146.45 billion), equivalent to 1% of the EUs GDP. Criminal organizations are present in all EU countries and their activities are cross-border. What is more, 70% of criminal organizations operate in more than three member states, Brussels emphasizes. Cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking between the EU and Latin America is not new. In 2018, the Assistance Programme Against Transnational Organized Crime (PAcCTO) was inaugurated. It was a five-year program for 18 Latin American countries and funded by the EU to promote citizen security and the rule of law in Latin America. Given the positive results of PAcCTO, which concluded in 2022, community sources indicate that a second version is expected to be launched before the end of this year. This transnational cooperation also received a fundamental boost which we now want to deepen and make more lasting with the signing, in Brussels in March last year, of the declaration for the creation of CLASI, in which the eight PAcCTO signatory countries grew to a total of 14 today: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Dominican Republic, and Uruguay committed to promote, whenever possible, a close articulation of our actions, national strategies and public policies to combat transnational organized crime. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition HONG KONG, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On September 26, the 2023 World Design Cities Conference (WDCC) opened at the Huangpu Riverside with the theme of "Design Beyond Creativity". The event was organized by the Shanghai Municipal People's Government. As a supporting partner, Fosun, which has been rooted in Shanghai for more than 30 years, and its subsidiaries, Yuyuan and Lanvin Group, joined the event by not only showing thoroughly the innovative designs in their products, business ecosystems and scenarios but also introduced technological innovations to press ahead with a fashion revolution, thus contributing to Shanghai's development into a world-class city of design. During the conference from September 26 to October 2, LANVIN, the French couture house under the global fashion and luxury group, Lanvin Group, presented its 2023 Fall/Winter Collection in a five-minute fashion show infused with cutting-edge AIGC technology, presenting an online metaverse show synchronized with the offline runway. Meanwhile, Yuyuan has introduced various original design products that highlighted the original charm of Chinese culture, integrating tradition and fashion to invent a new lifestyle that features the oriental lifestyle aesthetics. The "Shanghai-Milan Twin Cities Show" will mark the opening of the 13th Shanghai Haute Couture Week. The show aims to build a two-way fashion channel and a cultural corridor between China and rest of the world in the future. Xu Xiaoliang, Co-CEO of Fosun International and Chairman of the Shanghai International Fashion Federation, said, "Shanghai has always been a leader in the domestic design industry and a bridgehead for the entry of China's excellent design works and outstanding design enterprises into the global market. Rooted in Shanghai while developing globally, Fosun has been deeply engaged in industry operations for more than 30 years, continuously iterating innovative products that feature the oriental lifestyle aesthetics. Such products add to the happiness of family life and, at the same time, fully facilitate Shanghai's development into a world-class city of design. They contribute significantly to the growth of the city's soft power." Two Great Shows Connecting Three Places A Celebration of Fashion in Shanghai, Paris, and Milan On the morning of September 26, the attention of the global design community was focused on Shanghai. The passion for fashion was high on both sides of the Huangpu River. With the theme of "Design Beyond Creativity", the 2023 World Design Cities Conference officially opened. At the opening ceremony, LANVIN, the French couture house under the global fashion and luxury group, Lanvin Group, presented a stunning runway show with its 2023 Fall/Winter Collection. Evocations of the 1940s and the 1980s find traces in the collection, as well as references to the eighteenth century, the renaissance and the medieval periods. Injecting modern charm into classic elements for a fresh take, the collection is a rediscovery of French elegance and exuberance. It is also the first time for LANVIN to explore the use of AIGC technology, presenting an online metaverse show synchronized with the offline runway. The seamless integration of past and present, design and technology, sparks a fresh and breath-taking experience, as LANVIN, the oldest fashion house still operating in Paris, reactivated for the present. After the opening ceremony, the Shanghai International Fashion Federation, of which Fosun chairs, will hold a special event on the oriental lifestyle aesthetics - "Shanghai-Milan Twin Cities Show", in the main venue at the Huangpu Riverside on the evening of September 29, which is also the day of the Mid-Autumn Festival. The show will be the highlight of the World Design Cities Conference. The exciting "Twin Cities Show" will also kick off the 13th Shanghai Haute Couture Week. This year's high fashion week aims to bring forth the new through the old by turning into an "haute couture season", instead of continuing the previous "one issue per week" format of the presentation. The event not only will last longer but also will feature more diverse and exciting activities in addition to the brand shows, high-end customer salons and forums. That evening, the Shanghai International Fashion Federation will also sign a strategic agreement with the Shanghai Promotion Center for City of Design on organizing a campaign entitled "Oriental Lifestyle Aesthetics Going Global" with the aim of enabling more Chinese fashion brands to "go global". On September 8, as an important overseas collaboration of the 2023 World Design Cities Conference, the Shanghai Fashion Day was held in Milan, Italy. The "Shanghai-Milan Twin Cities Show" is a continuation of the Shanghai Fashion Day in Milan. The Integration of Traditional Culture and Innovative Design Demonstrates the Charms of Oriental Lifestyle Aesthetics In the Hall of Industry of this year's World Design Cities Conference, Yuyuan, which owns 17 time-honored Chinese brands and many vintage brands, brings the original design of a variety of brands, such as Shanghai Watch, Seagull Watch, Dongjia, WEI Beauty, and Laochenghuangmiao, covering a wide variety of products such as wristwatches, handicrafts, cosmetics, foods and beverages, and featuring their packaging designs. The Thousand Miles of Rivers and Mountains model of Shanghai Watch's Renaissance-Danqing Series of products is inspired by the Gu embroidery's "integration of painting theory into embroidery", showing paintings on the watch dial. Seagull Watch's Great Han Dynasty-General of the Flying Cavalry Collection is inspired by Chinese history, manifesting the "spirit of China" throughout the entire collection. The craftsmen of Dongjia and Suzhou Museum jointly launch the Secret Color Porcelain Lotus Lamp Gift Box, inspired by the "Secret Color Lotus Bowl" of Yue Kiln of the Five Dynasties, which is the treasure of Suzhou Museum. The cosmetics brand, WEI Beauty, launches a new series of Ming Dynasty Imperial Collection, inspired by the "Blue-and-White Dragon and Phoenix Box with Cover" during the reign of the Wanli Emperor from the artifact collection of the China Ceramics Museum in Jingdezhen. In addition to the excellent design works from various brands, "Made in Yuyuan", an important future intellectual property of Yuyuan, has also been unveiled in advance at the conference. "Made in Yuyuan", which consists of Yuyuan's seven types of dim sum, is exhibited at this year's World Design Cities Conference. The designs on the card boxes as the packaging of the food is based on the series of original illustrations of Yuyuan's time-honored brands and they can bring consumers pleasant surprises when they "unbox" the breakfast for a week. Moreover, Fosun and Yuyuan will also bring the oriental lifestyle aesthetics from Shanghai, China to Paris, France. On September 26, the Conference de presentation du Festival Dragons et Lanternes was held in Paris as the special overseas promotional activity of the 2023 World Design Cities Conference. The event officially announced the Festival Dragons et Lanternes' debut on the world stage as one of the representative cultural and artistic activities of the Chinese New Year. The 72-day Festival Dragons et Lanternes in France is scheduled to take place from late 2023 to early 2024, integrating the traditional Chinese cultural elements with the global fashion trends. SOURCE Fosun Attorneys honored as those 'you want to send into battle' DALLAS, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Four attorneys from the Dallas litigation boutique Bailey Brauer PLLC have earned selection to the 2024 Lawdragon 500 Leading Litigators in America listing. Alex Brauer was selected based on his business and financial litigation work, and Clayton Bailey, Ben Stewart and Jason Marlin were chosen for their commercial litigation practices. The prestigious legal guide honors the attorneys most trusted by corporations and other wealthy entities, with the Lawdragon editorial team hailing the recognized attorneys as "the advisors you want to send into battle." "This firm is dedicated to offering battle-tested, sophisticated courtroom representation that will yield successful litigation outcomes for clients," says Mr. Brauer. "Having all four of the firm's attorneys selected for an honor such as this is an indication that we are delivering on that promise." Mr. Brauer is a trusted advisor for clients facing allegations of fraud or deceptive practices in commercial transactions, breaches of fiduciary duties and litigation relating to non-compete agreements. A nationally known trial and appellate attorney, Mr. Bailey represents clients in a wide range of commercial litigation matters, including RICO, deceptive trade practices, antitrust, unfair business practices and the Packers and Stockyards Act. Mr. Stewart regularly represents clients in federal and state courts in matters involving insurance coverage, officer/director liability and other complex litigation. He also assists companies with internal and governmental investigations. Mr. Marlin assists clients involved in financial services litigation, shareholder derivative actions, real estate disputes, catastrophic personal injury cases, eminent domain proceedings and energy-related lawsuits. Selection to the Lawdragon 500 Leading Litigators is based on peer submissions paired with extensive editorial research. The full 2024 listing can be found at https://www.lawdragon.com/guides/2023-09-08-the-2024-lawdragon-500-leading-litigators-in-america. 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 SYDNEY, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- FP Markets , a leading broker for Forex and CFDs , continued to set the standard at the Ultimate Fintech Awards Global 2023, receiving awards for 'Best Trading Conditions' and 'Most Trusted Broker'. The awards add to the company's impressive record of accolades this year, including 'Best Trade Execution' and 'Most Transparent Broker' at the Ultimate Fintech Awards APAC 2023 in June this year. FP Markets Wins Best Trading Conditions and Most Trusted Broker at the Ultimate Fintech Awards Global 2023 (PRNewsfoto/FP MARKETS) The Ultimate Fintech Awards Global 2023 was held in Limassol, Cyprus, at the glitzy Columbia Beach on 21 September and welcomed a large gathering of industry leaders. Acknowledged as an exclusive benchmark for top B2C and B2B brands in online trading and Fintech, the awards ceremony is a global recognition program celebrating the achievements of the best and brightest brokerages from all over the world. The event recognised several award categories, rewarding the winning companies for attributes such as innovation, transparency, trading conditions, excellence and quality customer service. It was a celebration of the tireless efforts and remarkable achievements of the organisations that have consistently gone above and beyond to meet the needs of their traders and investors. FP Markets UBO Matt Murphie expressed his appreciation for the two recent awards and commented: 'FP Markets prides itself on delivering unparalleled trading solutions. and receiving the titles of 'Best Trading Conditions' and 'Most Trusted Broker' reinforces the company's position as a leading broker in the Forex and CFD industry. The company is committed to providing clients with an exceptional trading experience in an increasingly demanding environment. Our competitive trading conditions continue to make us a popular choice for traders and investors worldwide, and we are thankful for the international recognition we consistently receive'. Established in 2005, FP Markets is a Multi-Regulated Brand providing clients with over 10,000 tradable instruments across key asset classes and offers aggregate pricing across several top-tier liquidity providers. Additionally, FP Markets deliver Consistently Tight Spreads , Lightning Execution, Unmatched 24/7 Multilingual Customer Support , and various Account Types to suit all trading strategies and styles. Notes to Editors About FP Markets: FP Markets is a Multi-Regulated Forex and CFDs Broker with over 18 years of industry experience. The company offers highly competitive interbank Forex spreads starting from 0.0 pips. Traders can choose from the leading powerful online trading platforms, including FP Markets' Mobile App , MetaTrader 4 , MetaTrader 5 , WebTrader , cTrader , and Iress . The company's outstanding 24/7 multilingual customer service has been recognised by Investment Trends and awarded 'The Highest Overall Client Satisfaction Award' over five consecutive years. FP Markets has been awarded the 'Best Global Forex Value Broker' for five consecutive years (2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023) at the Global Forex Awards. Forex Forex FP Markets has been awarded the 'Best Forex Broker Europe ' and the 'Best Forex Partners Programme Asia ' at the Global Forex Awards 2022 and 2023. Forex Forex Forex FP Markets has been awarded 'Best Trade Execution' at the Ultimate Fintech Awards 2022. Fintech FP Markets crowned 'Best CFD Broker in Africa ' at FAME Awards 2023. CFD FP Markets Awarded 'Best Trade Execution' and 'Most Transparent Broker' at the Ultimate Fintech Awards APAC 2023 For more information on FP Markets' comprehensive range of products and services, visit https://www.fpmarkets.com/ . Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2234316/FP_MARKETS.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1574261/4312581/FP_Markets_Logo.jpg SOURCE FP MARKETS DALLAS, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Frank Branson and attorneys Debbie Dudley Branson and Tim Newsom of The Law Offices of Frank L. Branson have been recognized for their elite representation of plaintiffs in personal injury litigation on the 2023 list of Texas Super Lawyers. Mr. Branson, named to the annual list since its inception in 2003, is again ranked among the Top 10 legal practitioners in the state. Throughout his career he has been honored with some of the legal profession's highest accolades, including repeated listings in D Magazine's Best Lawyers in Dallas guide and in the prestigious publication The Best Lawyers in America. In addition, he has been named among the "Lions of the Bar" by Texas Lawbook and recognized as one of the "50 Most Influential Lawyers in the U.S." by The National Law Journal. In 2021, the Texas Bar Foundation honored Mr. Branson with the Ronald D. Secrest Outstanding Trial Lawyer Award, reserved for a trial lawyer who has consistently demonstrated exemplary ethical standards, outstanding professional conduct, and has positively impacted the perception of trial lawyers within the legal community. Ms. Branson is a fourth-generation lawyer with a passionate belief that attorneys have an obligation to be community leaders, public servants, and forces for positive social change. She has practiced with the firm since 1983 on a full spectrum of cases, focusing on litigation strategies that include focus groups, attitudinal surveys, jury selection, witness preparation, and jury debriefing. She has held numerous leadership positions, including President of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association and Chair of the Parkland Board of Managers. She has also been the recipient of the prestigious Linz Award, one of the highest civic honors presented to individuals who have created the greatest impact in Dallas during the last decade. Recognized on the list of Texas Super Lawyers since 2005, Mr. Newsom has tried personal injury and business litigation cases for nearly 30 years and is Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and in Civil Trial Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. He is the current President of TEX-ABOTA, a regional organization for the American Board of Trial Advocates, a national invitation-only organization of experienced trial lawyers from both sides of the docket. Super Lawyers, a Thomson Reuters-owned entity, employs a patented multiphase methodology that combines peer endorsements, evaluations, and third-party research to make their selections. Annually less than 5% of attorneys in Texas are named to the prestigious list, which is subsequently published in Super Lawyers and Texas Monthly magazines. This is just the latest in an extensive list of industry accolades for the firm. Each of the firm's attorneys were honored as Best Lawyers in America this year. The Law Offices of Frank L. Branson specializes in representing clients in intricate legal cases encompassing complex product liability, catastrophic injuries, truck accidents, commercial air crashes, electrical and gas explosions, and cases of severe truck and auto injuries. To learn more about the firm, please visit https://flbranson.com. CONTACT: Tamlyn Sheng, [email protected] SOURCE The Law Offices of Frank L. Branson For the second consecutive year, G-P was recognized as a Leader with the highest position among the 20 EOR service providers analyzed BOSTON, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- REMOTE FIRST COMPANY - G-P (Globalization Partners), the recognized leader in the global employment industry, known for setting the standard in global employment compliance, today announced it has been named the highest Leader in analyst firm Everest Group's Employer of Record (EOR) Solutions PEAK Matrix Assessment 2023. This is the second year Everest Group has published this report naming G-P as the highest Leader both times. G-P Ranked the Highest Leader | Everest Groups Employer of Record (EOR) Solutions PEAK Matrix Assessment 2023 G-P was recognized for its market impact and vision & capability. Everest Group highlights G-P's expanded G-P Meridian Suite product portfolio and partner ecosystem, recent technology integrations and diversified portfolios (geographic and verticals) as distinguishing features of the company's advancements. G-P was also named a Star Performer, which Everest Group defines as a company with strong year-over-year performance in the PEAK Matrix. G-P's continued leadership in Everest Group's analyses is a testament to the company's unwavering commitment to innovation in products driving the future of work through global growth technology. In the last 12-months, G-P has also been named the industry leader in all published EOR analyst reports, including The IEC Group Global EOR Study 2023 and Nelson Hall's 2022 Global Employer of Record Research Report. The company was also recently awarded 36 leader badges based on customer feedback in G2's 2023 Fall Report, including Global Employment Platform Leader, Employer of Record Leader, Contractor Management Leader and HR Compliance Leader, among others. "G-P being recognized again as a leader is a testament to our vision for global growth technology that underscores our ongoing innovation in service of breaking down barriers to global business and enabling the everywhere workforce," said Nat (Rajesh) Natarajan, chief product and strategy officer at G-P. "At G-P, we believe the future of work is flexible and borderless, and we are dedicated to enabling companies around the world to design, build and manage global teams this way." The PEAK Matrix Assessment provides the analysis and insights enterprises need to make critical selection decisions about global top tech and tech services providers, top locations, best-in-class products, and best-in-class solutions. This year's EOR Solutions PEAK Matrix Assessment is a comprehensive global report featuring 20 solution providers, evaluating factors such as revenue, client base, year-over-year growth, operational scale, technological innovation, global reach, delivery capacity, and client satisfaction. Leaders are noted as providers that continue to maintain their stronghold in the market and are investing in proprietary technologies to differentiate themselves from other providers in the market. Learn more about what sets G-P apart here: https://www.g-p.com/meridian-vision. About G-P G-P is the pioneer and recognized leader of the global employment industry and has delivered world-class global compliance and workforce products designed to meet the needs of growing companies since 2012. G-P's global growth platform is driven by the G-P Meridian Suite of SaaS-based global employment products. G-P helps thousands of customers build and manage teams quickly and compliantly in 180+ countries without navigating legal, tax or HR issues. G-P: Global Made Possible To learn more, please visit: g-p.com or connect with us via Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, or check out our Blog. CONTACT: Katie Johnson, kjohnson@g-p.com SOURCE G-P Theodore Bender, PhD, MBA, to Lead Nationally Recognized Drug and Alcohol Treatment Provider NASHUA, N.H., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- GateHouse Treatment, a premier addiction and behavioral health service provider, proudly welcomes Theodore Bender, PhD, MBA, as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Dr. Bender's exceptional background in clinical psychology, distinguished education, and remarkable track record in executive leadership make him the ideal leader for GateHouse Treatment. As CEO of GateHouse, Dr. Bender spearheads the mission of providing top-tier addiction & behavioral health services. By focusing on expanding access to care, forging strategic partnerships within the community, and implementing cutting-edge approaches, Dr. Bender aims to transform the lives of individuals seeking recovery. As CEO of GateHouse, Dr. Bender spearheads the mission of providing top-tier addiction & behavioral health services. Post this "GateHouse Treatment is thrilled to have Dr. Bender's expertise, exceptional leadership skills, and genuine compassion at the helm. With him leading the way, the company is poised to embark on an exciting new chapter of growth and innovation," remarked Christopher Barnett, CEO of ICBD Holdings, the family of companies of which GateHouse Treatment is a part of. With degrees from renowned institutions like Harvard University, Brown University, Florida State University, and Texas A&M University, Dr. Bender combines a strong foundation in psychology with advanced business acumen. His extensive experience in addiction treatment, both as a clinician and in leadership roles since 2011, has honed his expertise in improving access to behavioral health services and fostering community outreach. As the former CEO of BeWell Network, Dr. Bender led groundbreaking initiatives that enhanced patient care and expanded treatment options. His visionary leadership as President of Unity Place in Peoria, IL (the mental health division of UnityPoint Health) and CEO at Addiction Campuses revolutionized the field, demonstrating his dedication to developing innovative programs addressing the complex needs of those struggling with addiction. Notably, Dr. Bender's contributions extend beyond addiction treatment. As a board member of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and through his collaboration with the Department of Defense on military suicide prevention, he has shown an unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy. About GateHouse Treatment GateHouse Treatment is a nationally recognized provider of drug and alcohol addiction treatment services, with facilities in Nashua, New Hampshire, and Nashville, Tennessee. Accredited by the Joint Commission, GateHouse Treatment offers a full range of inpatient and outpatient services, including exclusive, innovative, and evidence-based treatment methods provided by staff with unparalleled levels of dedication and compassion. More information about GateHouse Treatment can be found at www.GateHouseTreatment.com. SOURCE GateHouse Treatment NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In keeping with its deep commitment to serving locally and culturally relevant food at its client schools across the nation, Genuine Foods hosted its first ever "Genuine Loves" event in Fletcher, VT. Serving as a debut for this first-of-its kind national program, "Genuine Loves" takes school meals to a new level by weaving hyper-local ingredients, products from beloved local artisans and purveyors, and locally iconic dishes and recipes into its K-12 and Higher Education foodservice meal programs. Julia Irish of Pitchfork Pickle gives a fermentation demonstration to students of Fletcher Elementary in Fletcher, Vermont, as a part of Genuine Foods' launch of its nationwide "Genuine Loves" initiative. The kick-off event was held at Fletcher Elementary, a member of Franklin West Supervisory Union, in Fletcher, Vermont, and hosted K-12 students, school administrators, and Genuine Foods leadership including Chief Innovation Officer Paula Reichel and Chief Operating Officer Zachery Thayer. The informal program included a live demonstration from "Genuine Expert" Julie Irish of Burlington-based Pitchfork Pickle, who supplied a key ingredient to one of the sampled menu items. Students got to learn about fermentation techniques, seeing firsthand how easy and healthy pickling can be, take home a simple pickling recipe, and sampling featured items. Students and administrators were treated to tastings of two delicious Vermont fall-themed dishes: Zesty Corn Chowder with PItchfork Pickle Pickled Carrot Crunch Garnish; and Apple Carrot Cobbler with Runamok Vermont Maple Syrup Glaze. "We really love being able to build our school menus around the products and people influencing how people eat in a particular area," says Paula Reichel, Genuine Foods' Chief Innovation Officer. "Students appreciate being able to taste something familiar--something that perhaps their parents or grandparents make for them, and our clients appreciate our commitment to scratch-made, nutritious menus. The "Genuine Loves" initiative also allows us to build crucial sourcing relationships on a hyper-local level. This enables us to meaningfully channel our purchasing power into the communities we serve." The Genuine Loves program, which is rolling out countrywide this month, offers students menu items and sampling experiences featuring dishes and recipes that are significant to their area. Each dish spotlights locally grown or produced foods and locally relevant dishes with simple, memorable information provided about the meals and their ingredients, including their history, origins, and relevance to local food culture. One month might see iconic Hatch Green Chiles utilized for a Green Chile Cheeseburger in New Mexico, or local okra featured in a traditional Smothered Okra dish in New Orleans. "When we founded Genuine Foods ten years ago, we knew this was the direction we needed to take. These days everyone has some sort of 'local' pledge. We knew ours had to go farther, to stay true to our underlying mission," says Founder and CEO Jeff Mills. "Foodservice is what we do, but the meaning, the experiences, and the impact that we create goes far beyond the plate. That's at the core of the "Genuine Loves" program." For more information on the "Genuine Loves" program please visit GenuineFoods.com/Genuine-Loves. ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST ABOUT GENUINE FOODS: Genuine Foods is a leading national purpose-driven foodservice company seeking to bring much needed radical change to the foodservice experience, especially in communities where poverty, obesity, and health disparities are prevalent. We deliver delicious, scratch-made foods using fresh, vibrant ingredients, an innovative people-focused team, and a deep commitment to reliability and integrity to K-12 schools, colleges and universities, senior living and healthcare facilities, and specialty venues across the country. Food service management is what we do, but what we create together with our customers, our partners, and our dedicated team members goes far beyond the plate. GenuineFoods.com ABOUT PITCHFORK PICKLE: Pitchfork Pickle crafts small batch ferments, pickles and hot sauce in Burlington, Vermont. We work with produce from Pitchfork Farm and other local farms, which inspires recipes and flavors. PitchforkPickle.com For more information, please contact Paula Reichel of Genuine Foods: [email protected] | 202.321.3584 SOURCE Genuine Foods SASKATOON, SK, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- "We are going to replace the grid one house at a time and at one building at a time with our new breakthrough in magnetic field technology. The result to the consumer is approximately 1-3 cent per kwh. And it's a planet saver, reducing fossil fuel by some 80%." - GLIP Inventor David Joseph explained. ZERG technology will allow people to live without blackouts, taking control away from weather, power corporations and governments. They will be able to control their own power needs while helping the planet, reducing fossil fuels and the potential of devastating forest fires caused by grid failures. The new technology will eventually make the grid obsolete. People will have their own virtual power company in the basement or closet. In the meantime, it will ease the pressure on the grid as people begin using the new technology for their homes and businesses. G.L.I.P. plans to use its new breakthrough in magnetic fields inside a generator called ZERG, an acronym for Zero Electromotive Repulsion Generator. The breakthrough technology is not a back up generator. Instead, it allows home and business owners to unplug from the grid entirely while incurring a fraction of the energy cost consumers currently pay. It will take the pressure off the grid: eventually replacing the grid entirely. Brian Stone, professor from the Georgia Institute of Technology did a recent study on the viability of the North American grid and said, "Not only are blackouts increasing, but they're increasing most rapidly in the summer months." ZERG technology will allow people to live without blackouts, taking control away from weather, power corporations and governments. They will be able to control their own power needs while helping the planet, reducing fossil fuels and the potential of devastating forest fires caused by grid failures. The magnetic field breakthrough was called a 'king maker' by the US Department of Energy. Wayne Killen at the US Department of Energy confirmed the successful lab tests, introducing it this way, "[G.L.I.P.] has developed a new e-motor/generator design that produces more kw from less kwh." G.L.I.P. plans to start building ZERG units in 2024. Zero Electromotive Repulsion Generator ZERG, is an AC magnet-less generator, verified by 3rd party Intertek, a world renown company. The unit is approximately 34" square and will produce a steady 60 kwh. Large homes or businesses will have available to them 150kwh and more. The new magnetic field technology also allows wind turbines to be smaller, quieter, more powerful, and requiring less wind. They will be far less impactful on the global ecosystem, especially marine life. Wind and water turbine versions will also be in the mix for ZERG at Home and business in 2024. The unit will be wi-fi ready and can be operated and monitored by a cell phone or another device. The new technology also has uses in electric vehicles as well. DJ Whittaker summed it up this way, "The new technology will eventually make the grid obsolete. People will have their own virtual power company in the basement or closet. In the meantime, it will ease the pressure on the grid as people begin using the new technology for their homes and businesses." People can receive more information by emailing the company at [email protected] G.L.I.P. Generation Corporation is a tech. company, home office-based in Canada. For more information visit the company web page at: www.Glipgeneration.com Media Contact: David Whittaker Public Relations Cell: 306-914-1193 [email protected] SOURCE GLIP Generation Corp. Under the agreement, Global Airlines will benefit from Hi Fly's expertise to accelerate the Entry into Service (EIS) programme for the airline's new fleet. Hi Fly, based in Lisbon , has significant A380 technical and operating experience. , has significant A380 technical and operating experience. First Global aircraft expected to fly to Europe in the months ahead, with a new registration of 9H-GLOBL LONDON, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In a significant operational development, Global Airlines and Hi Fly have signed an agreement to work together on the development and maintenance of the four A380 aircraft the new airline has agreed to acquire. Hi Fly, who were the first to operate the A380 in the secondary market, will use their extensive experience of the aircraft, to work with Global on not only preparing it for service, but on helping the new carrier realise its ambition to provide customers with the best way to fly on commercial services, as it prepares for operations. Richard Stephenson Global Airlines CCO (Left) and Antonios Efthymiou Hi Fly CEO (Right) James Asquith, Founder and CEO of Global Airlines, with the first aircraft The short-term focus for both organisations are the EIS and Return to Service (RTS) processes for Global's first aircraft, expected to commence in the months ahead. However, both companies will explore further ways to broaden their collaboration, united by a passion for the aircraft, and a shared belief in its enduring potential and appeal. James Asquith, CEO and Founder of Global Airlines said: "This announcement has been a long time in the making, and I've said from the start, we at Global want to work with the best, most experienced partners, and Hi Fly are exactly that. "The great news for us is that the team at Hi Fly know the A380 inside-out and will be invaluable in helping us with their industry knowledge around the maintenance and technical acceptance required for our first aircraft all crucial steps before work begins on introducing our new interiors and other vital elements of the Global service and passenger proposition. "We're proud to be working with Hi Fly and I place no limits on the potential of this collaboration." Antonios Efthymiou, CEO and Accountable Manager for Hi Fly said: "As soon as James and his team announced Global to the world, we were delighted to be part of the continued A380 revival. "Their passion for the A380, and belief in its potential to transform the passenger flying experience, is shared across our organisation, from top to bottom, and it's clear there are huge synergies between us. "We are delighted to be able to share our experience with Global, steer the aircraft through the next important technical staging points, and, ultimately, return them to the sky where they belong." Hi Fly holds authorisation to operate worldwide, and currently operates 35,000 flights per year for a base of 140 airlines and governments on a global basis. In 2018, Hi Fly became the first single-use plastic-free airline in the world. About Global Airlines Global Airlines was launched in 2023 with an aspiration to offer passengers the best way to fly. The airline is a wholly owned subsidiary of Holiday Swap Group and headquartered in London, United Kingdom. The airline is led by CEO James Asquith and backed by aviation experts and investors around the world. The airline has commenced an aircraft acquisition programme with four A380s secured. About Hi Fly Hi Fly is the largest Airbus Widebody aircraft wet lease specialist in the world, EASA and IOSA certified and FAA approved, with AOC's in Portugal and Malta, and licensed to operate globally. The airline operates a large fleet of all Airbus aircraft, Airbus A320, A330 and A340, available for wet lease and charter, passengers and cargo, on short, medium and long-term contracts, worldwide. Customers include airlines, governments, tour operators, freight forward companies and private individuals and the military. This is Hi Fly's core business and has been developed with unmatched operational expertise over the last 17 years. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2223787/James_Asquith.jpg Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2223788/Global_Airlines_Hi_Fly.jpg SOURCE Global Airlines DUBLIN, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Energy Efficient Lighting Market: Global Market Size, Forecast, Insights, and Competitive Landscape" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global energy efficient lighting market is expected to grow from $57.91 billion in 2023 to $97.68 billion in 2030, at a CAGR of approximately 7.8%. This comprehensive report on the global energy efficient lighting market offers insights into market sizing, forecasts, drivers, challenges, and the competitive landscape. Market Dynamics: Drivers Growing Use of Energy Efficient Lighting in Various Applications: The adoption of energy efficient lighting solutions across various applications, including residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, is a major driver of market growth. Increasing Demand for Energy Conservation: As the global focus on energy conservation intensifies, the demand for energy efficient lighting technologies is on the rise. Challenges High Initial Investment: The initial investment required for energy efficient lighting solutions may pose a challenge for some consumers and businesses. High Cost of the Product: Energy efficient lighting products, such as LEDs, can have higher upfront costs compared to traditional lighting technologies. Market Segmentation: By Product Type Incandescent Lamp, Halogen Lamps, Light Emitting Diode (LED), Arc Lamp, Xenon Arc Lamp, Mercury Xenon Arc Lamp, Ultra High Performance Lamps, Metal Halide Lamp, Gas Discharge Lamps, Compact Fluorescent Lamp, Linear Fluorescent Lamps, Neon Lamp, Mercury Vapor Lamp, Sodium Vapor Lamp, Electrodeless Lamp: The market encompasses a wide range of product types, with LED lighting being a prominent segment. By Application Residential, Commercial, Industrial: Energy efficient lighting finds applications in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, contributing to energy savings across these sectors. By Region Europe , North America , Asia Pacific , Latin America , Middle East & Africa : The market spans major regions, with Europe and North America being key markets, while the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness significant growth. Historical & Forecast Period: Base Year: 2022 Historical Period: 2018-2022 Forecast Period: 2023-2030 Profiles of Key Companies: The report offers detailed profiles of companies operating in the global energy efficient lighting market, including Abb, Advanced Lighting Technologies Australia Inc., Bridgelux Inc., Digital Lumens Inc., Eaton Corporation, General Electric, Nichia Corporation, Philips Lumec, Schneider Electric, and Toshiba Corporation. For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/nzwfya About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1904 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg SOURCE Research and Markets Celia Ramos with one of her daughters in an old family photo. It has been 26 years since the tragic death of Celia Ramos, who underwent an unnecessary and unwanted operation. In 1997, this young woman from Peru visited a health center seeking dental care but left with a handful of insistent recommendations to undergo a tubal ligation. Doctors identified the 34-year-old woman as a candidate of a sterilization plan initiated by Alberto Fujimoris regime to combat poverty. Under pressure from health workers who regularly visited her home, Ramos underwent the procedure and died 19 days later. This case marks the first case of forced sterilizations in Peru before the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR). Despite the hundreds of thousands of women affected, conservative voices are attempting to downplay the case, casting doubt on the courts credibility. Between 1996 and 2001, Perus National Reproductive Health and Family Planning Program sterilized 272,028 women and 22,004 men. The actual number of procedures that were forcibly conducted is difficult to determine, but researchers estimate it to be around 90%. Peruvian prosecutors stated that the women who had the surgeries were pressured, threatened and offered food incentives without receiving adequate information. Celia Ramos and 17 other women died shortly after the operations. Despite tubal ligation being a safe and reliable form of permanent contraception, the government program failed to ensure minimum health standards or provide proper pre- and post-operative monitoring. Maria Ysabel Cedano is a lawyer with DEMUS, one of the organizations representing 1,264 plaintiffs in the case before the IACHR (Peruvian prosecutors have moved to add another 2,264 plaintiffs). Cedano says they are seeking to have the case tried as a crime against humanity. Bear in mind that in the 1990s, there was an internal armed conflict in Peru that targeted a specific civilian population, and the [sterilization] program was not implemented nationwide it targeted a specific population. Considering that the Ministry of Health used the military to enforce the program, how can we expect a peasant, Indigenous or Quechua-speaking woman to refuse? Moreover, said Cedano, The scale of these operations raises concerns about consent. Were talking about up to 90,000 ligations a year. Its concerning how many women from remote areas said they signed a form without knowing that it would be an irreversible procedure. Consent is more than just a signature. Cedano wants Alberto Fujimori prosecuted. The former president is currently in prison for his role in the Barrios Altos and La Cantuta massacres. She also wants three former public health officials charged Eduardo Yong Motta, Marino Costa Bauer and Alejandro Aguinaga for violating the rights of Indigenous and peasant women. Chile can play an important role in bringing Fujimori to justice. Although Fujimori is imprisoned in Peru, Chile was the country that convicted and extradited him in 2007 for corruption and serious human rights violations, including aggravated homicide, forced disappearances and torture. The Peruvian government can now ask Chile to add the forced sterilization program to these crimes. But according to Cedano, a Peruvian government attorney has not been assigned to pursue this. Its a tactic to further delay the judicial process, said Florencia Reggiardo of the Center for Justice and International Law (CEJIL). Our healing process starts with justice This whole fight started with my dad. He actually filed a complaint about it years ago, but no one listened, Marisela Monzon Ramos, one of Celias three daughters, told the EFE news agency. Later on, my uncle took over because he couldnt stand the injustice. Now, its our turn to make things right. Our healing process starts with justice and closing old chapters not forgetting or giving up. We want the truth to be acknowledged, and were determined to get the fair compensation weve been fighting for and rightfully deserve. Despite all the personal testimony, efforts by feminist organizations, official reports and academic studies, the powerful Peruvian right wing persists in denying that forced sterilization happened. Alejandro Aguinaga, a former Fujimori official facing charges in the case, who is the current president of the congressional foreign relations committee, has repeatedly threatened on social media to reevaluate Perus membership in the IACHR. He has even suggested disaffiliation from the organization, saying, leftist countries can keep it. Dismissing such talk, Cedano said, This is not an ideological fight its about reparations for hundreds of thousands of victims. It was massive, mandatory and systematic Florencia Reggiardo categorically states, It was a massive, mandatory and systematic program aimed only at peasant women, so that they would not reproduce. This was one of several Fujimori policies violating human rights. There is clear evidence that this program was implemented and had a terrible impact, yet there are still voices in Peru denying or ignoring it. The racist element here is significant. Even with the Inter-American Courts involvement, ultra-conservatives persist in making the same arguments and attacks. Cedano and Reggiardo acknowledge that the IACHRs ruling will be crucial for the country and the region. A decision favoring the plaintiffs would reinforce the progressive trend of Latin American courts, which have previously deemed forced sterilizations comparable to torture when challenging Chile and Bolivia in similar cases. The significance of their ruling lies in preventing a regression in terms of human rights, said Reggiardo. The legal process is in the first phase presentation of the written lawsuit. Lawyers estimate the hearing will occur in a year, with a ruling approximately a year later. The plaintiffs are demanding a public apology from the Peruvian government, financial compensation, scholarships for the victims, research on non-consensual sterilization, and public policies for training judges and health workers. Its high time for Peru to reckon with its history and ensure that Fujimori and the others will face punishment, said Cedano. Violence against women cant be tolerated any longer. BEIJING, Sept. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Chinese government released a white paper on Tuesday to introduce the theoretical base, practice and development of a global community of shared future, as by presenting China's vision of the course of human development, it counters the hegemonic thinking of certain countries that seek supremacy. Ten years ago, Chinese President Xi Jinping put forward the idea of building a global community of shared future. "His proposal lights the path forward as the world fumbles for solutions, and represents China's contribution to global efforts to protect the shared home and create a better future of prosperity for all," according to the white paper, titled "A Global Community of Shared Future: China's Proposals and Actions." The timing of releasing such a document is crucial, as apart from marking the 10th anniversary of the proposal of a significant idea, the world is in severe turbulence and experiencing profound changes which have not been seen in the past century, so the international community has been calling for solutions, and China, as a responsible major power which is much more powerful than it was 10 years ago, has responsibility to contribute its wisdoms and actions to meet the demand of this era, said Chinese analysts. China's proposals and actions are not for China's own benefit or self-interest, but for the common good of humanity, experts said. The white paper said "To build a global community of shared future is to pursue openness, inclusiveness, mutual benefit, equity and justice." The goal is not to replace one system or civilization with another. Instead, it is about countries with different social systems, ideologies, histories, shared rights, and shared responsibilities in global affairs, the document read. The concept of a global community of shared future has deep roots in China's profound cultural heritage and its unique experience of modernization. It carries forward the diplomatic traditions of China and draws on the outstanding achievements of all other civilizations, the white paper said. It also manifests China's time-honored historical traditions, distinct characteristics of the times, and a wealth of humanistic values. The white paper also pointed out the direction and plan to build a global community of shared future including pressing ahead with a new type of economic globalization in which countries need to pursue a policy of openness and explicitly oppose protectionism, the erection of fences and barriers, unilateral sanctions, and maximum-pressure tactics, so as to connect economies and jointly build an open world economy. Wirun Phichaiwongphakdee, director of the Thailand-China Research Center of the Belt and Road Initiative, exemplified by a number of BRI projects in Southeast Asia including the China-Thailand Railway being built, which he said demonstrates how China and the ASEAN are working together to build a community of shared future. China is not just providing proposals, but also actively implements its own ideas by actions, and has provided the world with extensive achievements. Over the past decade, China has contributed its strength to building a global community of shared future with firm conviction and solid actions. For instance, by July 2023, more than three-quarters of countries in the world and over 30 international organizations had signed agreements on Belt and Road cooperation with China. The BRI originated in China but the opportunities and achievements it creates belong to the whole world. It's an initiative for economic cooperation, not for geopolitical or military alliances, and it's an open and inclusive process that neither targets nor excludes any party, the white paper said. Among several BRI projects, for example, the China-Laos Railway began operation on December 3, 2021, with 167 tunnels and 301 bridges built in 11 years along its total length of 1,035 kilometers. The railway construction created more than 110,000 local jobs, and helped build about 2,000 kilometers of roads and canals for villages along the railway, benefiting local people. Also, through the mediation of China, Saudi Arabia and Iran achieved historic reconciliation earlier this year, setting a fine example for countries in the region to resolve disputes and differences and achieve good neighborly relations through dialogue and consultation, and catalyzing a wave of reconciliation in the Middle East. China has also proposed a range of regional and bilateral initiatives on building communities of shared future and working with stakeholders to build consensus and expand cooperation, thereby playing a constructive role in promoting regional peace and development. It also boosts international cooperation in fields including fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing disorder in cyberspace governance and dealing with the global climate challenge. Over the past decade, the vision of a global community of shared future has gained broader support. More countries and people have come to the understanding that this vision serves the common interests of humanity, represents popular calls for peace, justice and progress, and can create the greatest synergy among all nations for building a better world, the white paper said. SOURCE Global Times NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Global X ETFs, the New York-based provider of exchange-traded funds (ETFs), today announced that the firm has been honored by Crain's New York Business as one of the Best Places to Work in New York City 2023. This marks the third year in a row that the firm has made this list. Conducted by Crain's in partnership with Best Companies Group (BCG), an independent research company since 2004, the Best Places to Work in New York City survey and awards program has been dedicated to identifying and recognizing the area's best employers for over 15 years. Commenting on today's announcement, Luis Berruga, CEO of Global X ETFs, said: "There is nothing more critical to a company's long-term success than its people, and at Global X we truly have the best people around! That's why I am honored that Crain's has recognized this special place to work as among New York's very best workplaces. At Global X, people will always be our most important asset, and they will always be encouraged to bring their full selves to work in an environment which fosters empowerment, authenticity, and enthusiasm." Since its founding in 2008, Global X has embraced its status as a challenger brand and has quickly risen to become among the world's most admired and trusted ETF issuers. A big part of Global X's success can be attributed to its agility and exploration mindset, which are emblematic of the firm's culture and part of its DNA. As Global X has grown, it has been successful at maintaining the uniqueness and spirit that has always made the firm a special place to work defined by positivity, passion, client service, teamwork, and professionalism. Having reached a global headcount of 300 this year, Global X ETFs is growing and actively hiring team members who exemplify our culture of problem solving, creative thinking, collaboration, and integrity. To join the Global X team, view and apply to our open positions here. About Global X ETFs Global X ETFs was founded in 2008. For more than a decade, our mission has been empowering investors with unexplored and intelligent solutions. Our product lineup features more than 100 ETF strategies and over $51 billion in assets under management worldwide.i While we are distinguished for our Thematic Growth, Income and International Access ETFs, we also offer Core, Commodity, and Risk Management funds to suit a wide range of investment objectives. Explore our ETFs, research and insights, and more at www.globalxetfs.com. Global X is a member of Mirae Asset Financial Group, a global leader in financial services, with more than $520 billion in assets under management worldwide.ii Mirae Asset has an extensive global ETF platform ranging across the US, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Europe, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam with over $80bn in assets under management.iii Media Contact Naomi Sussis AVP, Communications Manager [email protected] i Source: Global X ETFs, as of September 2023 ii Source: Mirae Asset, as of May 2023 iii Source: Mirae Asset, as of May 2023 SOURCE Global X Management Company LLC DUBLIN, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Prefabricated Building System Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2023 - 2028)" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global prefabricated building system market is on track for remarkable growth, with projections to expand from USD 194.90 billion in 2023 to USD 265.90 billion by 2028. This growth trend reflects a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.41% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2028. Several key drivers and trends are expected to fuel this market's growth. Companies Mentioned Abtech, Inc. Algeco Scotsman Astron Buildings Butler Manufacturing Kirby Building Systems Lindal Cedar Homes , Inc. , Inc. Modular Engineering Niko Prefab Building Systems Private Limited Par-Kut International RED SEA INTERNATIONAL Schulte Building Systems, Inc. Skyline Champion Corporation United Partition Systems, Inc. Vardhman Pre-Engineered Building Systems Key Highlights: Impact of COVID-19: The COVID-19 outbreak had a negative impact on the global construction industry, causing widespread work stoppages. However, the market is projected to recover and grow steadily in the forecast period, driven by the overall growth of the global construction sector. The COVID-19 outbreak had a negative impact on the global construction industry, causing widespread work stoppages. However, the market is projected to recover and grow steadily in the forecast period, driven by the overall growth of the global construction sector. Asia-Pacific Construction Boom: The Asia-Pacific region is a significant contributor to the market's growth. Increased demand for building construction, especially in countries like China and India , is one of the major factors driving the expansion of the market. Despite volatile growth in the real estate sector, the Chinese government's focus on infrastructure development has led to significant growth in the construction industry. The region is a significant contributor to the market's growth. Increased demand for building construction, especially in countries like and , is one of the major factors driving the expansion of the market. Despite volatile growth in the real estate sector, the Chinese government's focus on infrastructure development has led to significant growth in the construction industry. Industrial Modular Buildings: Industrial modular buildings are experiencing faster growth due to the advantages of off-site construction. Off-site construction offers accelerated project timelines, greater flexibility, cost-effectiveness, safety, and sustainability. These advantages are particularly attractive in developing nations, where the demand for efficient construction methods is high. Industrial modular buildings are experiencing faster growth due to the advantages of off-site construction. Off-site construction offers accelerated project timelines, greater flexibility, cost-effectiveness, safety, and sustainability. These advantages are particularly attractive in developing nations, where the demand for efficient construction methods is high. Government Initiatives: Government initiatives aimed at infrastructure development are boosting the demand for prefabricated building systems. For example, school renovation programs in the United Kingdom and infrastructure projects in China and India are driving market growth. Investments in construction projects and infrastructure development are creating significant opportunities in the market. Market Trends: Non-Residential Segment Expansion: The non-residential segment, which includes industrial and institutional buildings, is expanding at a lucrative rate. Prefabricated building systems fulfill short-term needs at lower costs for various facilities, including manufacturing, healthcare, and educational institutions. In the United Kingdom , government initiatives to construct new schools and renovate existing ones are expected to drive demand for prefabricated building systems. The non-residential segment, which includes industrial and institutional buildings, is expanding at a lucrative rate. Prefabricated building systems fulfill short-term needs at lower costs for various facilities, including manufacturing, healthcare, and educational institutions. In the , government initiatives to construct new schools and renovate existing ones are expected to drive demand for prefabricated building systems. Construction Industry Growth: The construction industry in China has witnessed significant growth, driven by government infrastructure projects. Both state-owned and private enterprises, along with major construction players from the European Union, are contributing to this growth. The construction industry in has witnessed significant growth, driven by government infrastructure projects. Both state-owned and private enterprises, along with major construction players from the European Union, are contributing to this growth. Indian Residential Sector: India's residential sector is experiencing growth, supported by government initiatives and budget allocations for housing construction. Infrastructure projects in India and Japan are also expected to create demand for prefabricated building systems. residential sector is experiencing growth, supported by government initiatives and budget allocations for housing construction. Infrastructure projects in and are also expected to create demand for prefabricated building systems. Modular Buildings: Modular buildings offer several advantages, including faster completion (30-50% faster than conventional structures), reduced overall time and cost, and sustainability. These benefits are expected to drive demand for prefabricated building systems. Modular buildings offer several advantages, including faster completion (30-50% faster than conventional structures), reduced overall time and cost, and sustainability. These benefits are expected to drive demand for prefabricated building systems. Asia-Pacific Dominance: The Asia-Pacific region is the dominant market, with China , India , and Japan experiencing significant construction and infrastructure development. Government investments in highways, railways, and other projects are contributing to market growth. Key Topics Covered: 1 INTRODUCTION 2 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 3 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 4 MARKET DYNAMICS 4.1 Drivers 4.1.1 Increasing Demand for Building Construction in Asia-Pacific 4.1.2 Supportive Government Incentives and Policies 4.1.3 Other Drivers 4.2 Restraints 4.2.1 Technical Issues Associated with Prefabrication 4.2.2 Other Restraints 4.3 Industry Value Chain Analysis 4.4 Porter's Five Forces Analysis 5 MARKET SEGMENTATION (Market Size in Value) 5.1 Dimensions 5.1.1 Skeleton System 5.1.2 Panel System 5.1.3 Cellular System 5.1.4 Combined System 5.2 Application 5.2.1 Residential 5.2.2 Non-Residential 5.2.2.1 Infrastructure 5.2.2.2 Commercial 5.2.2.3 Industrial/Institutional 5.3 Geography 6 COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE 6.1 Mergers and Acquisitions, Joint Ventures, Collaborations, and Agreements 6.2 Market Share (%)**/Ranking Analysis 6.3 Strategies Adopted by Leading Players 6.4 Company Profiles 7 MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS 7.1 Implementation of Building Information Modeling (BIM) 7.2 Other Opportunities For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/6h4745 About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1904 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg SOURCE Research and Markets DUBLIN, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Edgescan, the first fully-integrated cybersecurity platform, announced today an upcoming webinar on Thursday, October 5 at 11:00 AM ET featuring Forrester that discusses risk-based vulnerability management solutions and how they enable a modern, proactive security strategy. Guest speaker, Forrester Senior Analyst, Erik Nost, joins Edgescan Executives, Eoin Keary (CEO and Founder, Edgescan) and Jim Manico (Founder, Manicode Security, and Edgescan Strategic Technical Advisor) to discuss the fundamental tools and processes that organizations must employ in their security strategy for continuous assessment and effective risk management. Forrester Senior Analyst Erik Nost starts the webinar by sharing his views on the advantages of implementing a proactive approach to security. This will be followed by a moderated panel discussion covering topics such as the benefits of risk-based vulnerability management, the advantages and disadvantages of modern cybersecurity platforms, and the critical components required to establish a proactive security strategy that promotes a robust security posture. "Legacy scanners, using just CVSS scores, produce a tremendous number of false alarms as the vulnerabilities are simply not used in cyber breaches. We need to fix the issues that matter with our limited resources. Accuracy is vital to have a clean prioritization list." says Eoin Keary, CEO and founder of Edgescan. To register for the webinar on October 5th at 11:00 AM ET, and for full event details, please visit: https://info.edgescan.com/forrester-webinar-proactive-security-and-rbvm About Edgescan Edgescan is an integrated cybersecurity platform that unifies five robust security solutions into a single combative platform. These solutions include External Attack Surface Management (EASM), Risk-based Vulnerability Management (RBVM), Application Security Testing (AST), API Security Testing, and Penetration Testing as a Service (PTaaS). The platform is a hybrid solution that provides automated vulnerability intelligence with validation done by humans it is what differentiates us from scanning tools, providing real and actionable results. The platform reduces the complexity and overhead associated with tool proliferation, cuts operational costs, and delivers risk-rated vulnerability data to speed up remediation, ensuring a strong security posture. Christine Carrig Senior Vice President, Global Marketing Edgescan [email protected] SOURCE Edgescan WUHAN, China, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Guide Sensmart has released a new product called the TD631 LRF Handheld Thermal Imaging Monocular, just in time for the upcoming hunting season. This entry-level thermal imaging monocular offers advanced features at an affordable price. With improved image algorithms, it provides clearer and more detailed imaging. Additionally, it includes a built-in 600-meter laser rangefinder, making it perfect for outdoor night vision activities. TD631 LRF Handheld Thermal Imaging Monocular Internationale Jagd- und Schutzentage 2023 The TD631 LRF comes with a self-designed vanadium oxide infrared detector that is highly sensitive. It is paired with a high-resolution AMOLED display of 640*400, ensuring clear and detailed thermal images for a pleasant viewing experience. The device is lightweight, has minimal buttons, boots up in just 2 seconds, and has an impressive battery life of 10 hours. It also has an IP66 protection level and can connect to the app for firmware upgrades, making it user-friendly and worry-free to use. This new handheld thermal imaging monocular has multiple uses, including hunting, law enforcement, search and rescue, animal care, outdoor exploration, and recreational observation. It offers a more reliable user experience and makes outdoor adventures easier and more convenient. The Internationale Jagd- und Schutzentage 2023 will take place in Schloss Griinau, Neuburg a. d. Donau bei Ingolstadt, Germany from October 13th to 15th. JSA Night-Lux will showcase the Guide Sensmart TD631 LRF and other products and solutions. Guide Sensmart warmly invites exhibitors to visit their booth and try out the new products. About Guide Sensmart Guide Sensmart is a manufacturer of systematic infrared thermal imaging products, with a marketing service network covering 70 countries and regions worldwide. For more information, please visit https://www.guideir.com/. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2234110/TD631_LRF_Handheld_Thermal_Imaging_Monocular.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2234111/Internationale_Jagd__und_Sch_tzentage_2023.jpg SOURCE Guide Sensmart RICE LAKE, Wis., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Henry Repeating Arms, one of the country's leading firearms manufacturers and a world leader in the lever action category, is proud to announce its latest Guns for Great Causes campaign with the donation of fifty limited-edition "Team Kaia" rifles. The rifles are available online, and all proceeds will be presented to the family of 8-year-old Kaia Lauro to provide direct financial relief for mounting medical expenses. Kaia Lauro was diagnosed with Stage 4 Neuroblastoma in 2019 and is the latest beneficiary of Henry Repeating Arms Guns for Great Causes program. (Photo/Brian Lauro) Henry Repeating Arms donated a limited-edition series of fifty Team Kaia rifles to raise funds and provide financial relief for the medical expenses associated with Kaias cancer treatment. Proceeds are expected to exceed $30,000. (Photo/Henry Repeating Arms) Kaia was diagnosed with Stage 4 Neuroblastoma in 2019, a rare childhood cancer that formed in her adrenal gland and later spread to her bone and bone marrow. Treatment started immediately following her diagnosis with a grueling 8-hour surgery. Since diagnosis, Kaia has undergone countless chemotherapy treatments, painful immunotherapy sessions, Metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) radiation, focused radiation, stem cell infusions, and blood transfusions. Mariann Tepedino, a friend of the Lauro family and advocate for Kaia, brought the child's story to the attention of Anthony Imperato, Founder & CEO of Henry Repeating Arms, who immediately got the campaign in motion. "Time and time again, I find myself humbled by the unwavering generosity and support from the firearms community for a total stranger whenever we unveil a new Guns for Great Causes campaign, and I am confident that this will be no exception," said Imperato. "More humbling though is the tenacity and courage with which Kaia forges on with her friends and family at her back and a smile on her face." The Henry "Team Kaia" rifle features a unique brushed metal finish on the receiver cover and barrel band, genuine American walnut stocks, a large loop lever, a 17" blued steel octagon barrel, fully adjustable sights, and a magazine tube with capacity for 12 rounds of .22 LR or 16 rounds of .22 Short. Exclusive to this rifle is the highly detailed, whimsical design on the buttstock, which is laser engraved and painted by hand in full color. The design features the pony that Kaia frequents for rides at a local farm, a tiara of flowers as a nod to her love of fictional princesses, and a gold awareness ribbon, symbolizing hope for pediatric cancer. The words "Never Ever Give Up" are engraved along the flowers. Baron Engraving of Trumbull, Connecticut, donated the artwork, engraving, and hand-painted embellishments. To purchase the "Team Kaia" rifle, visit henryusa.com/teamkaia. The first and last rifles in the series are up for auction to enhance fundraising efforts. The auctions close on October 11th at 9:00 PM Eastern. All firearm purchases must ship to a federally licensed firearms dealer. To learn more about Henry Repeating Arms and its products, visit henryusa.com. About Henry Repeating Arms: Henry Repeating Arms is one of the leading firearm manufacturers in the United States and a world leader in the lever action category. The company's motto is "Made in America, or not made at all," and its firearms come with a lifetime guarantee backed by award-winning customer service. The company is also known for its Guns for Great Causes charitable program, which focuses on assisting the families of sick children, children's hospitals, military veteran organizations, law enforcement and first responder groups, Second Amendment advocacy groups, and wildlife conservation organizations. Henry Repeating Arms employs over 600 people and has over 350,000sf of manufacturing space in its Wisconsin and New Jersey facilities. The company is named in honor of Benjamin Tyler Henry, who invented and patented the Henry lever action rifle in 1860 the first practical repeating rifle and America's unique contribution to the international stage of firearms design. Visit Henry Repeating Arms online at henryusa.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/HenryRepeating, and @henry_rifles on Instagram. SOURCE Henry Repeating Arms Top Solutions for Reducing Aviation Emissions Will Earn Prize Purse of $30K and Chance to Collaborate with NASA's University Innovation Project HOUSTON, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- HeroX , the leading platform and open marketplace for crowdsourced solutions, today launched the crowdsourcing competition, Brilliant Minds for Pure Blue Skies . The Challenge seeks contributions from aviation experts and industry outsiders alike for novel and revolutionary ideas that directly address the harmful emissions produced by narrow and wide-body aircraft during flights that last longer than two hours. Budding and nascent ideas are welcomed as NASA's university partners will help to develop the most promising solutions after the challenge concludes. HeroX Seeks Out-of-the-Box Solutions for Ensuring Greener Skies Top Solutions for Reducing Aviation Emissions Will Earn Prize Purse of $30K and Chance to Collaborate with NASA's University Innovation Project Participants are tasked with a straightforward request: express your innovative idea through the questions provided in the submission form, then hit submit! Thoughtful and creative ingenuity may be key to coming up with the breakthroughs that lead to clean and healthy skies wherever planes fly. After the submission deadline, subject matter experts from NASA will review the submissions and determine the ultimate challenge winners. NASA will then work with the winners and U.S. academic institutions to ensure that the best ideas are put on a path toward further research and development. This challenge encourages the development of unorthodox and disruptive ideas today so that 20-30 years down the road we might have the technology necessary to match the growing demand for air transport. The next great innovation in aviation could come as easily from a seasoned engineer as from a hobbyist pilot or a high school teacher, so this challenge is designed to reward those who generate unexpected, safe, and impactful solutions. "It's always exciting to see a challenge that welcomes bold and novel solutions from all over the globe," said Kal K. Sahota, President and CEO of HeroX. "Our expansive network could help connect the people with the most promising ideas to the experts with the best resources." The Challenge: The Brilliant Minds for Pure Blue Skies Challenge asks the larger community to present their novel ideas for how to reduce aviation emissions in a safe and feasible manner. Out-of-the-box solutions are encouraged from participants of any background. The Prize: Up to five participants who submit the top ideas will share a total prize purse of $30,000. Eligibility to Compete and Win Prize(s): The prize is open to anyone aged 18 or older participating as an individual or as a team, so long as the team captain is an American citizen or legal permanent resident. Other team members may originate from any country, as long as United States federal sanctions do not prohibit participation (some restrictions apply). To accept the challenge, visit www.herox.com/PureBlueSkies ABOUT HEROX HeroX is a platform and open marketplace for crowdsourcing innovation and human ingenuity, co-founded in 2013 by serial entrepreneur, Christian Cotichini and XPRIZE Founder and Futurist, Peter Diamandis. HeroX offers a turnkey, easy-to-use platform that supports anyone, anywhere, to solve everyday business and world challenges using the power of the crowd. Uniquely positioned as the Social Network for Innovation, HeroX is the only place you can build, grow and curate your very own crowd. Explore the latest challenges at www.herox.com Media Contact: Jodie Wozniak [email protected] 8009749829 SOURCE HeroX Empowering HR Pros with Choice and Fueling Business Success NEW YORK and LONDON, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- HiBob , the company behind HR platform Bob is excited to announce a tremendous achievement in its journey of transformation and growth, with the recent addition of its 102th tech partner. Bob now integrates with manifold tech solutions that cover the entire employee lifecycle providing integrations that power optimal efficiency across an organization without compromising data security, visibility, or governance. HiBob celebrates 100+ tech partner milestone Bob is an essential digital tool for globally distributed organizations, seamlessly integrating with a range of tech solutions. From applicant tracking to benefits administration and cross-company collaboration, Bob streamlines processes, providing a unified platform for all employees, regardless of location or time zone. This ensures efficient operations and a centralized source of information for the organization. HiBob's dedication to enhancing HR capabilities is exemplified by their extensive marketplace of integrated tech partners. This achievement signifies a collaborative effort to revolutionize HR operations and elevate the functionality of the Bob platform. "The integration of these carefully curated tech partners ensures that HR professionals using HiBob have access to a plethora of specialized solutions at their fingertips. This leads to enhanced efficiency, streamlined processes, and ultimately, elevated employee experiences. Each partner brings a unique offering to the table, creating a synergy that empowers HR teams to tailor their strategies, adapt to changing landscapes, and stay ahead in the race for talent', says Yoav Gur, VP Business Development at HiBob. This achievement strengthens HiBob's growth potential, offering new opportunities for expansion and innovation. It reflects a strategic focus on not just technological advancement, but also on creating value for users and stakeholders in their journey. About HiBob HiBob is at the forefront of HR innovation, transforming the way organizations operate in the modern world of work with its award-winning HCM 'Bob'. HiBob's modular approach supports multinational companies with agile technology and robust analytics for distributed workforces, enhancing hiring, talent retention, upskilling, and employee experience. More than 3,500 global businesses serving hundreds of thousands employees worldwide - including The Josh Bersin Company, The&Partnership, and VaynerMedia - appreciate its ease of use, high configurability and the ability to customize based on business requirements. For more information about HiBob, visit www.hibob.com . Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2234312/HiBob.jpg SOURCE HiBob JOHANNESBURG, LAGOS, Nigeria and NAIROBI, Kenya, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hinen Company is delighted to announce the successful conclusion of its exhibitions held in South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya. During these exhibitions, Hinen showcased its latest energy storage battery products, including an Africa-specific backup power solution tailored for the African market. The response from local consumers was overwhelmingly positive, demonstrating the high value and cost-effectiveness of Hinen's home energy storage systems. Hinen was interviewed by Russia Today at South Africa exhibition Hinen at Nigeria exhibition Hinen at Kenya exhibition The exhibitions provided a valuable platform for Hinen Company to raise brand awareness and generate interest among consumers in South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya. The company's engagement at the exhibitions was met with enthusiasm, as attendees expressed appreciation for the innovative and reliable solutions presented. This positive reception motivates Hinen to continue its dedication towards providing trustworthy products and services to African users, addressing their electricity challenges effectively. By introducing its advanced energy storage battery products, Hinen aims to contribute to the development of a greener and more sustainable future for Africa. The company's goal is to provide African consumers with access to affordable and reliable home energy systems, helping them overcome power difficulties while reducing their reliance on traditional energy sources. Hinen Company remains committed to delivering dependable products and exceptional service to the African market. The success achieved during these exhibitions reinforces Hinen's determination to become a trusted partner for African users by continuously improving its offerings and addressing the evolving energy needs of the continent. For more information about Hinen Company and its range of innovative energy storage battery products, please visit our official website [https://hinendraft.myshopify.com/]. Contact: VP of HINEN Billy Li billy@hinen.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2234248/1.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2234238/2.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2234247/3.jpg SOURCE Hinen Indiana operates under a modified comparative fault system when it comes to car accidents says Stephenson Rife Law INDIANAPOLIS, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ --Here's an overview of how the settlement process typically works: Stephenson Rife, LLP Seek Medical Attention: The first and most crucial step after a car accident is to seek immediate medical attention for any injuries. Your health and well-being are the top priority. Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company promptly. Indiana is a "fault" state, meaning the at-fault driver's insurance is primarily responsible for covering the damages. However, your own insurance may come into play, depending on your coverage. is a "fault" state, meaning the at-fault driver's insurance is primarily responsible for covering the damages. However, your own insurance may come into play, depending on your coverage. Gather Evidence: If you are physically able to do so, gather evidence at the accident scene. This includes taking photos of the vehicles, the accident location, and any visible injuries. Also, collect contact information from witnesses. Consult with an Attorney: Consider consulting a car accident attorney in Indiana to understand your rights and legal options. An attorney can help protect your interests and guide you through the settlement process. to understand your rights and legal options. An attorney can help protect your interests and guide you through the settlement process. Investigation: Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident, which may include gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, obtaining police reports, and assessing the extent of your damages. Demand Letter: Your attorney will work with you to calculate the value of your claim, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other damages. They will then send a demand letter to the at-fault driver's insurance company, outlining your losses and the amount of compensation you are seeking. Negotiations: The insurance company will review the demand letter and may enter into negotiations with your attorney to reach a settlement. Both parties will negotiate until an agreeable settlement amount is reached. Settlement Agreement: If a settlement is reached, you will sign a settlement agreement that releases the at-fault driver and their insurance company from any further liability for the accident in exchange for the agreed-upon compensation. Receiving Compensation: Once a settlement is agreed upon or awarded by the court, you will receive the compensation for your damages and injuries. Your attorney will assist in resolving any liens or outstanding medical bills before distributing the settlement funds to you. "Your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially at fault for the accident," says Attorney Mike Stephenson. About Stephenson Rife Law The team of attorneys of Stephenson Rife have been meeting the needs of people in Indiana since 1976. Their experience in personal injury cases has resulted in huge successes for clients impacted by car, truck, or motorcycle accidents, wrongful death, or brain injury cases, to name a few. Thanks to their stellar reputation, Stephenson Rife is often the law firm that other law firms consult. Contact them at (317) 680-2501 or here to schedule a consultation. This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com. SOURCE Stephenson Rife, LLP Employees of the Ministry of Emergencies of Azerbaijan are continuing search and rescue operations at the scene of the fire and explosion that occurred at a gas station located near the city of Khankendi, Azernews reports. The forces of the State Fire Protection Service of the Ministry of Emergencies of the Republic of Azerbaijan have extinguished, within a short span of time, the fire, which occurred at the reserve tanks site of the filling station located near the city of Khankendi. Due to the incident, the Ministry of Emergencies dispatched 10 more special vehicles with 50-strong personnel on September 27 through the Aghdam-Asgaran-Khankendi road to take rescue and other necessary measures. Its not a bag, its a Birkin! This phrase has entered popular culture through Sex and the City, uttered by an Hermes sales clerk to Kim Cattralls Samantha, who does not understand how hard it is to get ahold of what is possibly the most coveted and mysterious model in fashion. Its history is full of rumors and myths. The bags much-talked-about waiting list a subject the brand refuses to talk about, possibly aware of the power of rumor is due to the fact that its production rate does not keep up with demand. In an effort to clarify the truth Michael Tonello wrote the 2009 book Bringing Home the Birkin, a book in which he claims that he only needed three months to get 130 examples of the model. Despite Tonellos words, the fascination with the Birkin has only grown, with special thanks to resale platforms. Vestiaire Collective notes that searches for the Hermes Birkin grew by 20% on average last year compared to those dating back to 2021. Since the beginning of 2022, Hermes handbag sales have recorded a 15% increase compared to the same period last year. January 2022 saw the maximum rise, which reached 40% compared to the previous year, they say. On the one hand, we are faced with the legend of inaccessibility that surrounds them, and the truth is that it is increasingly difficult to get them. That makes people want them more. When you go to an Hermes store to buy a bag, the brand wants you to know its tradition, its history, its quality and everything behind the brand. Their desire is for you to have an experience with the brand and to get to know their products. In fact, if you buy other things, you might have a better chance of buying a Birkin. Thats why they want people to approach the brand, because they are the ones who decide if you are worthy of having a Hermes bag. You might have to go three to four times to get one. Without a doubt, it is a status symbol, says Virginia Ibanez Dionisio, founder of La Agencia Secreta, which hunts down luxury brand objects. Jane Birkin at the 2005 Jean Paul Gaultier fashion show wearing a Birkin bag by Hermes. Michel Dufour (WireImage) The popular bag was created in honor of Jane Birkin. On a flight from Paris to London with the then-owner of Hermes, Jean-Louis Dumas, the actress told him that she had never found her dream bag. In 1983, three years after the informal chat, fashions most popular design was born. What few people know is who owns that bag. It is Catherine Benier, a renowned collector, lover of vintage Hermes and Chanel designs and owner of part of the archives of the aforementioned French fashion houses. Catherine B, as she is known, is the owner of Les 3 Marches, a small Parisian boutique that has become a temple for fashionistas, visited by celebrities like Cameron Diaz. She has owned the Birkin for 23 years, and she refuses to say how much she paid at the bags second auction: in 1994, Jane Birkin herself auctioned it to raise money for an AIDS charity. No one knew where it had gone since then and I never imagined it would ever come up for auction again, Catherine B explains in an interview posted on Christies auction website. In 2000, a friend at a Paris auction house told me she had something I needed to see. When I went, she pulled a bag out of a safe. It was the one I had seen a thousand times in photographs on Jane Birkins arm. I knew it had to be mine, she confesses. When I got it, the first thing I wondered was how I was going to pay for it. But I had already sold some other pieces so I could buy it. Ive always loved old things that tell a story, she added. Catherine B posing with the original Birkin. She assured then that she would never sell it. Recently, though, when asked again, she responded to Instagram account STYLE NOT COM with an enigmatic Who knows? She has said that her intention was never to profit from the bags resale, as it is part of fashion and design history. In fact, it saddens her greatly that so many people acquire luxury pieces planning to resell them, as she believes that an investment of any kind, without passion, has no future. In her own store, she makes sure that her acquisitions and sales are guided by what her heart dictates, and not by her pocketbook. She has gone so far as to reject pieces that she knew would sell, but that she didnt believe in. Catherine Bs Who knows? brings us to ask what price the bag might fetch. Time magazine claimed years ago that the Birkin bag was a better investment than gold. Considering that one of the three original bags sold for over 110,000 ($115,500) in 2013, imagine its price 10 years later! Some parameters to take into account: Hermes is a symbol of luxury, and its owner an icon, added to the bags history and rarity. The Birkin bags fame has surpassed that of the actress, Jane, explains Arnaud Maillard, an expert in vintage clothing. People on the street got a close-up look at the original Birkin in 2020 at Londons Victoria and Albert Museum, where the piece was the epicenter of the Bags: Inside Out exhibition. Previously, it was on display at MoMA. Catherine herself has explained to STYLE NOT COM the condition of the bag is. When I got my hands on it, it was in acceptable condition, considering the way Jane used her bags. The design was created to live and travel with her, and thats what it has done. I havent touched it, nor have I modified it at all. Ive even left her nail clippers inside, Catherine B has assured, noting that since it is considered a museum piece, it has been treated and kept as such. On her Instagram profile, she did not hesitate to post an image of the bag, tired of hearing so many stories, all crazier than the others, about the bag. I pose [sic] here the original birkin in black box, with a non-removable shoulder strap and the initials J.B issued in 1985, she wrote next to the photo. Will we ever know where the first Birkin is, and will it eventually be auctioned off? Maillard doesnt think so. Knowing her, I know she wont want to part with the original model. I think her daughter will inherit this treasure full of stories and emotions, he says. If true, that would have horrified Birkin herself. She once said that owning one of her mothers Birkins seemed horrible to her, which is why her daughter Lou never had one. Several Birkin models ready to be auctioned at Christie's. Cindy Ord (Getty Images) Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Personal injury lawsuits in Alabama follow a legal process with many steps and requirements says Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana MOBILE, Ala., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The first and most crucial step after sustaining an injury in Alabama is to seek immediate medical attention. Your health and well-being should be your top priority. Then, consider consulting a personal injury attorney. Most personal injury lawyers offer free initial consultations to assess the merits of your case and determine whether it is worth pursuing. Caldwell Wenzel Asthana, Injury Lawyers If you decide to move forward with the lawsuit, your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident or incident that caused your injury. This investigation may involve gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, reviewing medical records, and assessing the extent of your damages. If your attorney believes you have a valid claim, they will file a formal complaint in the appropriate Alabama court. The complaint outlines the details of the incident, the defendant's alleged negligence, and the damages you seek. The defendant will be served with a copy of the complaint and a summons, notifying them of the lawsuit and their need to respond. They may file an answer, admitting or denying the allegations, and potentially raising affirmative defenses. Both parties engage in the discovery process, where they exchange information and evidence related to the case. This may involve written questions (interrogatories), requests for documents, depositions, and more. Before the trial, either party can file pre-trial motions to address various legal issues or request a judgment in their favor without going to trial. Many personal injury cases settle out of court through negotiations between the parties' attorneys and insurance companies. If a fair settlement is reached, the case will conclude without going to trial. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case will proceed to trial. During the trial, both sides present their evidence, and a judge or jury will determine liability and the amount of compensation (damages) you are entitled to receive. If either party is dissatisfied with the trial's outcome, they may have the option to file an appeal to a higher court. "Alabama operates under a 'contributory negligence' system. This means that if a plaintiff is found to be even slightly responsible for the accident, they may be barred from recovering compensation," says Attorney C. Randall Caldwell. About Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana Injury Lawyers Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana, PC is comprised of fierce trial attorneys who are known for providing aggressive and effective representation in many areas of the law. Our team focuses on representing clients in the areas of personal injury, wrongful death, estate disputes, and other civil litigation matters. When you need a strong group of legal advocates to fight for your rights, we are here for you. For more info, call (251) 444-7000. This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com. SOURCE Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana GHENT, Belgium and DETROIT, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Human8 (previously known as InSites Consulting), the new human-driven consultancy, just announced Camille Nicita, currently Managing Director for North America, will be accepting the role of CEO from current CEO and co-founder Kristof De Wulf. Human8 appoints Camille Nicita as new global CEO Human8 logo Kristof De Wulf co-founded Human8, formerly known as InSites Consulting, in 1997 as a spin-off of Belgian-based Vlerick Business School where he was marketing professor and partner. He became CEO beginning of 2012. Under his leadership, the company grew from around 80 people to now well over 800 people, adding more than 100 million in revenue through organic growth, greenfield operations in the Netherlands, Romania, UK, U.S. & Germany, and an intensive buy-and-build journey involving 9 acquisitions in just 5 years. At the start of 2023, the global group rebranded to Human8, while keeping the Space Doctors name as a sub-brand for its foresighting and strategic positioning work. "I am delighted to have had the opportunity to grow and lead our organization for almost 12 years now. It was an amazing journey transitioning from a Belgian start-up to a global leader that is serving the needs of the most iconic brands in the world. The time is now to pass on the responsibility to one of our most competent and inspiring leaders in the business, Camille Nicita," said De Wulf. "Moving Camille into the seat of global CEO not only sends a clear signal that we are now a truly global company, but also that we moved beyond our legacies into an exciting joint future." Nicita's journey started more than 30 years ago when she was hand-picked to join a start-up market research company, formerly known as Gongos. Nicita held several leadership positions, but the most profound came in 2012 when the owner, John Gongos, passed away unexpectedly. Nicita was appointed as owner and CEO overnight. With strong leaders around her, they carried forward with strength, perseverance, and resiliency to reinvent the company and change the face of insights. Under Nicita's leadership, the company experienced record growth while continuing to nurture a positive and rewarding environment for its people. Gongos became part of Human8 at the end of 2021 and Nicita has since been operating as the Managing Director for North America. Nicita is an active member of the Board of the Insights Association, contributing member of the Forbes Agency Council, and official judge of the North American Customer Centricity Awards. Under Nicita's leadership, the company achieved the Forbes Small Giant award in 2020. "I'm honored to carry on the great work Kristof has accomplished over the last decade and am ready to apply the Small Giants mindset on a global scale," said Nicita. "The skills and capabilities we have under one roof are unparalleled and it's strengthened by our people-first culture around the globe. My focus in the coming years will be to cultivate passion for our purpose, clients, people, and the community at large." Stepping into her new role as global CEO of Human8 (effective as of 1 October 2023), Nicita leaves the North American branch in the experienced hands of Katherine Ephlin, currently North America Head of Operations, who will be replacing her as Managing Director of North America. Camille will also join the Human8 Board of Directors, where Kristof De Wulf remains an active member as well as shareholder of the global group. About Human8 Human8, the human-driven consultancy, connects brands with people and culture to drive positive change. Human8 uncovers what matters to people and how brands can act upon it. Human8 is the coming-together of 10 game-changing agencies from around the world: InSites Consulting, Direction First, Columinate, eyeka, Join the Dots, ABN Impact, Answer, Space Doctors, Gongos, and Happy Thinking People. Human8 unites a creative, smart and ambitious group of +800 people across 24 locations under one vision: making brands more human by better understanding people and culture, empowering brands to take action, and enhancing the lives of the people they serve. For more information, please visit www.wearehuman8.com! Contacts: Anke Moerdyck Head of Global Marketing Human8 M: +32 498 62 46 88 E: [email protected] Megan Cuellar Media Relations Contact for Human8 M: (949) 777-2468 E: [email protected] SOURCE Human8 SHANGHAI, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hydrexia Holding Limited ("Hydrexia"), a leading integrated hydrogen technology solution provider in China, announced today that it has completed its Series D of private equity financing. This series is led by Qingdao Ocean Investment Group ("QOIG") and joined by previous rounds investors SB China Venture Capital, Yixing Environment Science & Technology Fund, MY Tsinghua Capital, and others. With the conclusion of the Series D financing, Hydrexia has completed a total of four rounds of private equity financing in the past 7 years, during which it has evolved to become a technology and market front runner in the hydrogen industry in China, offering innovative and breakthrough products and solutions across the industry value chain. "We are very happy to have won the confidence of investors in our business. Their financial support will facilitate us to further travel along the technological path of our journey to continued success," said Alex Fang, the chairman and CEO of Hydrexia. "With the favorable policy and business environment globally, the hydrogen energy market presents huge business opportunities ahead. We believe the raised capital will enable us to enhance our R&D and product delivery capabilities to better serve the needs of our customers," Fang continued. "We have chosen to invest in Hydrexia because of its demonstrated solid technology leadership and proven business execution capabilities," said Shuzhi Liu, the chairman of the board of QOIG. "Hydrexia team has performed extremely well in response to the rising needs of the hydrogen industry to quickly capture business opportunities," he added. With its strong technology capability, Hydrexia continues to solidify its market leadership with a focus on alleviating the bottlenecks of the hydrogen industry. Hydrexia believes it has become the first company in the industry to have commercialized its breakthrough magnesium-based solid-state technology for hydrogen storage and transportation. About Hydrexia Hydrexia Holding Limited is a leading integrated hydrogen technology solution provider in China with global reach. The company specializes in providing technology solutions for hydrogen production, storage, transportation, and utilization. Leveraging its solid R&D capabilities and innovative technology, Hydrexia aims to effectively address the technology and application needs across the global hydrogen industry value chain. SOURCE Hydrexia Guiding the Naming System Alongside the Internet's Evolution LOS ANGELES, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) celebrates 25 years of international collaboration in overseeing the coordination of the Internet's naming system. Born from a vision of a unified and globally accessible Internet, ICANN's milestone reflects its unwavering commitment to maintaining this goal and recognizing the significant impact it holds. ICANN Celebrates its 25th Anniversary! Established in 1998 by the U.S. Department of Commerce, ICANN's enduring mission has been to ensure the stable and secure operation of the Internet's unique identifier systems including the Domain Name System (DNS). Its achievements stem from collaborative efforts that brought together technical experts, governments, civil society, businesses, and end users. Throughout the past two and a half decades, ICANN has been at the forefront of technical Internet governance and policy development, ensuring the stable and reliable technical operation of the Internet. Key milestones include the formation of crucial advisory committees and supporting organizations to ensure representation from governments, civil society, and technical communities to the introduction of more than 1,200 new generic top-level domains (gTLDs), and the global expansion of its operational offices. "For the past 25 years, ICANN has exemplified global collaboration, firmly championing one world, one Internet," said Tripti Sinha, Chair of the ICANN Board of Directors. "When ICANN was established to coordinate the Internet's unique identifier systems, there were nearly 150 million users; today, more than half of the world's population uses the Internet. We, at ICANN, continue to bridge divides and connect communities, ensuring a secure and trusted experience for the end user, with a clear focus on digital inclusivity and an unwavering commitment to a stable, secure, and interoperable Internet." Milestones that underscore ICANN's legacy include: Global Footprint: Since its first public meeting in Singapore in 1999, ICANN expanded its presence by establishing offices in Brussels , Istanbul , Montevideo , and Singapore , reflecting the makeup of the ICANN community. Since its first public meeting in in 1999, ICANN expanded its presence by establishing offices in , , , and , reflecting the makeup of the ICANN community. Expansion of the DNS : The introduction of new gTLDs in 2012 marked a significant expansion of the DNS, leading to enhanced innovation, competition, and diversification in the Internet's address system. This not only broadened the domain landscape, but also set the stage for ICANN's launch of Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs). These IDNs cater to and address the diverse linguistic and cultural needs of the global Internet community, allowing for domain names in native scripts and languages. : The introduction of new gTLDs in 2012 marked a significant expansion of the DNS, leading to enhanced innovation, competition, and diversification in the Internet's address system. This not only broadened the domain landscape, but also set the stage for ICANN's launch of Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs). These IDNs cater to and address the diverse linguistic and cultural needs of the global Internet community, allowing for domain names in native scripts and languages. Championing Universal Acceptance (UA) and Digital Inclusivity : The goal of UA is to enable everyone to use and communicate on the Internet via a domain name and email address that fits their language, business, and cultural needs. Internet-enabled applications and systems that are UA-ready can provide a path for the next billion users to come online. To emphasize its importance, ICANN launched UA Day on 28 March 2023 as an annual event, rallying communities worldwide to boost UA awareness and promote its adoption among key technical stakeholders. : The goal of UA is to enable everyone to use and communicate on the Internet via a domain name and email address that fits their language, business, and cultural needs. Internet-enabled applications and systems that are UA-ready can provide a path for the next billion users to come online. To emphasize its importance, ICANN launched UA Day on as an annual event, rallying communities worldwide to boost UA awareness and promote its adoption among key technical stakeholders. Steering Into the Future: Seven years have passed since the stewardship of the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority functions was transferred from the U.S. Government National Telecommunications and Information Administration to the global multistakeholder community. This transition exemplifies the organization's unwavering commitment to inclusive global governance and the drive to globalize the management of essential Internet resources. Seven years have passed since the stewardship of the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority functions was transferred from the U.S. Government National Telecommunications and Information Administration to the global multistakeholder community. This transition exemplifies the organization's unwavering commitment to inclusive global governance and the drive to globalize the management of essential Internet resources. Safeguarding Security and Stability: Initiatives like the Domain Name System Security Extensions, introduced in 2005, and the Key Signing Key (KSK) Rollover in 2018, which marked its 50th ceremony earlier this year in July, underscore ICANN's dedication to maintaining the DNS's integrity. "Our legacy is embedded not only in the milestones we've reached but in the communities we have fostered, the standards we have established, and the global bridges we have built," commented Sally Costerton, Interim President and CEO of ICANN. "While our past is filled with milestones that have helped shape the Internet age, it's our future that excites me the most. As we champion initiatives that advocate digital inclusivity and accessibility, our commitment remains unyielding: to keep the Internet secure, stable, and interoperable." End users are at the heart of ICANN's efforts. Every domain registration, every Internet Protocol address, and every policy and technological improvement has been aimed at contributing to an environment in which anyone, anywhere may access the countless stores of information and services that the Internet provides. Our digital experiencesfrom interacting with loved ones around the world to obtaining crucial health and financial services to online learning to launching new online businesses simply would not be feasible without a single interoperable Internet. This is only made possible by the stability and reliability that ICANN delivers through its mission. As we celebrate this significant milestone, we extend our sincere appreciation to all stakeholders, including technical experts, the business community, civil society, academia, governments, and the global Internet community at large. You all have played an instrumental role in ICANN's journey. About ICANN ICANN's mission is to help ensure a stable, secure, and unified global Internet. To reach another person on the Internet, you have to type an address a name or a number into your computer or other device. That address must be unique, so computers know where to find each other. ICANN helps coordinate and support these unique identifiers across the world. ICANN was formed in 1998 as a nonprofit public-benefit corporation and a community with participants from all over the world. SOURCE ICANN New Street Foods Competition kicks off at LA Auto Show on November 18-19, with complimentary access included for Auto Show ticket holders LOS ANGELES , Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Los Angeles Auto Show is delighted to host a new taste bud revolution when the USA Street Food Awards (usastreetfoodawards.com) makes its grand debut in North America. Set to kick-off November 18-19 at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show, the culinary event will celebrate the finest street food vendors in Los Angeles the city that helped kick-start the food truck revolution! Street Food Awards head to the Los Angeles Auto Show Against LA's vibrant backdrop, the first round in a nationwide hunt for North America's first ever USA Street Food Champion will take place at the LA Auto Show. Founded in 2010 by the British broadcaster Richard Johnson, the awards have grown into an international sensation, currently taking place in 16 European countries and now making its debut in LA. "Serving food on the streets of urban areas is a tradition that has been around for millennia, and today it's what often connects thousands of Los Angeles commuters and pedestrians to the wonderfully diverse offerings of the world's signature flavors. And with the rich history of street food in our city, it was a natural choice for us to host the first USA Street Food Awards, celebrating the link to the car culture capital of the world," said Terri Toennies, President of LA Auto Show. As every Angelino knows, food truck culture is a vibrant, dynamic facet of the city's culinary scene, reflecting its diverse demographics and pioneering spirit. Historically rooted in the mobile taco trucks catering to late-night workers, the movement gained huge popularity more than 20 years ago, leading to the emergence of gourmet trucks serving a wide variety of flavors. The phenomenon has democratized gourmet food, making it accessible and affordable to everybody while providing chefs with a unique platform to experiment with fusion dishes and innovative flavors. As a result, the culture has grown, sprouting trucks to satisfy every craving, from vegan and organic to global cuisine, showcasing LA's diverse culinary and ethnic landscape. One of the primary attractions of the Street Food Awards is that visitors are able to eat, drink and vote their way around the competing food vendors. The awards are also judged by a panel of culinary experts, with each dish evaluated on taste, creativity, and presentation. The participants are invited to share the unique story behind their culinary journey, celebrating the mouthwatering flavors and highlight both the cultural significance and heritage behind each dish, which began on the streets of LA for many competitors. The LA Auto Show, one of the most influential and well-attended auto shows in the world, will provide the setting for the event. Annually drawing hundreds of thousands of auto aficionados from more than 50 different countries, the Street Food Awards will take place in tandem with the Auto Show on its first weekend, helping to feed and inspire the LA community of foodies and fervent car fans. The Street Food Awards will then move across the United States, allowing food vendors in different cities to battle it out, with winners from each city heat competing for People's Choice and Judges' Favorite at the final round back in Los Angeles in November 2024 in the USA Street Foods Champion Cook-off. The events will continue throughout 2024, including Austin and New York. Other cities may be added throughout the year. "My dream when I launched the British Street Food Awards back in 2010 was to bring this competition to the US. My first encounter with food trucks in America was what inspired me in the first place. So to finally celebrate the best US food trucks, and a whole way of eating that cities from coast to coast have gifted to the world, is a very special feeling," said Richard Johnson. This event will be co-hosted by Food Fleet, one of the premier mobile food solutions companies in the country. Founded by chef Jeff Mora, Food Fleet provides support for events of all sizes, including the LA Auto Show itself, ensuring visitors are served fresh, tasty food during the busiest days. Visitors purchasing tickets to the LA Auto Show on November 18-19 will automatically be entitled to enter the Street Food Awards, taking place on the campus of the LA Convention Center. People wishing to only attend the Street Food Awards are able to purchase separate $5 tickets using the information below. Visitors to the Street Food Awards will be able to purchase the food items being judged from each vendor. Sample packs can also be purchased for $20. The packs entitle attendees to obtain samples from three vendors and any number of sample packs can be purchased. A percentage of each sample pack purchase will go towards two organizations being supported by the Street Food Awards. These include Wave Foundation (thewavenw.org), which supports sustainable, equitable and resilient food systems, and Streets International (streetsinternational.org), a social enterprise providing culinary training to at-risk youth. Please visit usastreetfoodawards.com for the most up-to-date information. TICKETS Food fans wishing to attend the USA Street Food Awards can purchase tickets and sample packs in advance at laautoshow.com/tickets . Anybody who holds a ticket for the LA Auto Show on November 18-19 will automatically receive access to the Street Food Awards. The 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show will be cashless. All tickets can be purchased online at laautoshow.com/tickets with a credit card or bank card, and will include complimentary admission to the USA Street Food Awards on the relevant days. For additional show information visit laautoshow.com. EDITOR'S NOTE Working media representing a recognized outlet wishing to cover the Street Food Awards may contact Claudia Sanchez ([email protected]). Judging will take place on November 19 and media will be invited to sample the dishes. Interviews with chefs and organizers will be available. Please note, a limited number of media places are available for this opportunity. MEDIA REGISTRATION Registration is now open for the Media and Industry preview day on Thursday November 16. The LA Auto Show's press and B2B gathering is an opportunity for the global community and key decision makers to gather in Southern California for the latest debuts, product announcements, networking opportunities and more. Registration is accessible at laautoshow.com/media-and-industry-day ABOUT THE LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW (LA AUTO SHOW) Founded in 1907, the Los Angeles Auto Show is widely recognized as one of the most influential shows globally. Reflective of its location, the show celebrates the love affair Angelenos have with their cars and offers a global platform to industry technology and innovation, synonymous with California. The show runs for 10 full days over the Thanksgiving period and is a must-attend destination for many industry influencers, car enthusiasts and families wanting to enjoy a day out over the holiday season. Held annually at the Los Angeles Convention Center, the LA Auto Show contributes several hundred million dollars to the local economy, stimulates the local job market, and is the number one revenue generator for the LA Convention Center. For media inquiries, please email [email protected] or Claudia Sanchez for Street Food Awards ([email protected]) SOURCE LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW DUBLIN, Sept. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Automotive Stainless Steel Tubes - Global Strategic Business Report" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global market for Automotive Stainless Steel Tubes was estimated at approximately US$4.4 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach around US$6.3 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.6% during the forecast period from 2022 to 2030. Automotive stainless steel tubes are used in various applications within the automotive industry, including exhaust systems, brake lines, and fuel lines, due to their corrosion resistance and durability. Segmentation by Product Type Welded Segment : This segment is projected to record a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period, reaching a market size of US$5.5 billion by 2030. Welded stainless steel tubes are commonly used in automotive applications such as exhaust systems. : This segment is projected to record a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period, reaching a market size of by 2030. Welded stainless steel tubes are commonly used in automotive applications such as exhaust systems. Seamless Segment: The seamless segment is estimated to grow at a higher CAGR of 5.2% over the next eight years. Seamless stainless steel tubes are known for their strength and are used in critical automotive applications like hydraulic lines and high-pressure fuel lines. Regional Market Insights United States : The Automotive Stainless Steel Tubes market in the United States was estimated at US$762.7 million in 2022. The U.S. market is expected to continue growing, driven by the need for high-quality and durable automotive components. : The Automotive Stainless Steel Tubes market in was estimated at in 2022. The U.S. market is expected to continue growing, driven by the need for high-quality and durable automotive components. China : China is forecasted to experience significant growth in the Automotive Stainless Steel Tubes market, with a projected market size of US$1.2 billion by 2030. This growth is supported by the expansion of the automotive industry in the country. : is forecasted to experience significant growth in the Automotive Stainless Steel Tubes market, with a projected market size of by 2030. This growth is supported by the expansion of the automotive industry in the country. Japan : Japan is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.9% during the forecast period. Japanese automakers are known for their focus on quality, which drives the demand for stainless steel tubes in automotive applications. : is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.9% during the forecast period. Japanese automakers are known for their focus on quality, which drives the demand for stainless steel tubes in automotive applications. Canada : Canada's market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.4%, reflecting the country's automotive manufacturing activities and the use of stainless steel tubes in various components. : market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.4%, reflecting the country's automotive manufacturing activities and the use of stainless steel tubes in various components. Germany : In Europe, Germany is anticipated to grow at approximately 4.5% CAGR. The German automotive industry's emphasis on innovation and performance contributes to the demand for stainless steel tubes. Key Market Players Some of the key players in the global Automotive Stainless Steel Tubes market include: ArcelorMittal Centravis Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. CSM Tube spa JFE Steel Corporation Maxim Tubes Company Pvt. Ltd. Nippon Steel Corporation Outokumpu Penn Stainless Products Inc. Plymouth Tube Company Posco Group Inc. Salzgitter AG Thyssenkrupp AG Conclusion The global Automotive Stainless Steel Tubes market is poised for steady growth, driven by the automotive industry's demand for corrosion-resistant and durable components. Welded and seamless stainless steel tubes find applications in critical automotive systems, including exhaust, brake, and fuel lines. The United States, China, Japan, Canada, and Germany are key markets contributing to this growth. The market also offers opportunities for innovation in materials and manufacturing processes to meet the automotive industry's evolving needs. This growth presents opportunities for both established players and newcomers in the industry. What`s New? Special discussions on the global economic climate and market sentiment Coverage on global competitiveness and key competitor percentage market shares Market presence analysis across multiple geographies - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial Online interactive peer-to-peer collaborative bespoke updates Access to digital archives and trademarked research platform Complimentary updates for one year Access to curated YouTube video transcripts of market sentiments shared by CEOs, domain experts and market influencers via interviews, podcasts, press statements and event keynotes Key Topics Covered: I. METHODOLOGY II. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1. MARKET OVERVIEW 2. FOCUS ON SELECT PLAYERS 3. MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS Encouraging Outlook for Automobile Production Despite Disruptions, Bodes Well for Growth of Stainless Steel Tubes Encouraging Recovery in Automobile Production, Notwithstanding the Many Challenges, Offers Hope for Players in the Value Chain Including Manufacturers of Auto Grade Stainless Steel Tubes: Global Light Vehicle Production (In Million Units) for Years 2019 through 2025 Growing EV Adoption, Production & Sales to Benefit Demand for Automotive Stainless Steel Tubes Robust Sales of EVs Means Increased Application Possibilities for Automotive Grade Stainless Steel Tubes: Global Sales of EVs (In 000 Units) for Years 2023, 2025 and 2027 Innovations Ranging from Materials to Production to Spur Growth in the Market Aging Vehicles & Increased Need for Replacing Exhaust Systems to Benefit Demand for Automotive Stainless Steel Tubes Growing Age of Vehicles is Poised to Benefit Engine and Exhaust Parts Replacement Where Stainless Steel Tubes are Commonly Used: Average Age of Cars & Light Trucks in the United States (In Years) for the Years 1980, 1990, 2000, 2015, 2020, 2022 & 2023 (In Years) for the Years 1980, 1990, 2000, 2015, 2020, 2022 & 2023 Innovations in Corrosion Resistance of Automotive Stainless Steel Tubes to Spur Growth in the Market Hydroformed Steel Tubes to Witness Strong Demand. Here's All You Need to Know Austenitic Stainless Steel Hits the Spotlight in Automotive Applications Thin Wall Mild Steel Tubing Grows in Popularity and Demand Among Auto OEMs Amidst all the Clamor Around Climate Change & Sustainability, Green Steel Becomes a Hot Commodity With Transport Emissions Continuing to Increase At a Rate Much Faster Than GDP Growth, Pressure Builds on the Automotive Industry for Charting a Roadmap for Achieving Sustainability: Carbon Footprint Forecasts for the Global Transport Industry (In Billion Metric Tons) for Years 2020, 2025, 2030, 2035, 2040, 2045 & 2050 4. GLOBAL MARKET PERSPECTIVE III. MARKET ANALYSIS IV. COMPETITION For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/341ndb About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg SOURCE Research and Markets MISSOULA, Mont., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Inimmune, a leading biotech company focused on the development of novel vaccine adjuvants, immunotherapies and delivery systems, announced today that its Chief Scientific and Strategy Officer, Jay Evans, Ph.D., will be a speaker at the International Precision Vaccines Conference (https://precisionvaccines2023.com/) in Rome, Italy on October 5-6. The International Precision Vaccine Conference (IPVC) will bring together experts in vaccinology and immunology from academia, government, and industry to provide updates on Precision Vaccines: Biomarkers of Vaccine Safety and Efficacy in Vulnerable Populations. "Inimmune is looking forward to participating in the IPVC and contributing to discussions on the advancement of innovative new vaccines and immunotherapeutics", said Dr. Evans. Inimmune transitioned from a pre-clinical to clinical stage company in 2023 with the initiation of a Phase I clinical trial with a new disease modifying treatment for seasonal allergic rhinitis. Additional immuno-oncology and vaccine Phase I clinical trials are expected in early 2024. Dr. Evans will provide an update on Inimmune's progress in advancing new vaccine adjuvants and immunotherapy solutions, including a project in collaboration with Boston Children's Hospital's Precision Vaccines Program in developing PVP-037 a small molecule TLR7 agonist. Vaccine adjuvants, like those being developed at Inimmune, are used to enhance the immune response to vaccines. Adjuvants are also important in other areas of medicine, such as immuno-oncology, allergy, and autoimmunity. Inimmune is focused on developing innovative vaccine adjuvants and delivery systems to enhance global health with a rapidly growing pipeline of innovative immunotherapeutics. "We are honored to host Dr. Evans and are grateful for Inimmune's support in co-sponsoring the IPVC conference. Application of precision adjuvants holds great promise across a range of indications to prevent and treat disease in vulnerable populations", said Ofer Levy, M.D., Ph.D., Director, Precision Vaccines Program at Boston Children's Hospital and Co-Organizer of IPVC. The conference includes two full days of seminars, poster sessions, and interactive forums to discuss and reflect on recent studies of vaccine safety and immunogenicity relevant to vulnerable populations. This year's event will be held on October 5-6 at the Parco dei Principi Grand Hotel & Spa in Rome, Italy. About Inimmune: Inimmune Corp. (Missoula, MT) is a privately held biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of innovative immunotherapeutics, adjuvants and vaccines. Inimmune is harnessing the human immune system to create safe and effective treatments for allergy, infectious disease, autoimmunity and cancer. Their laboratories and offices are housed in the Montana Technology Enterprise Center (MonTEC) in Missoula, MT (USA). For more information on Inimmune's research and development of novel vaccine adjuvants and delivery systems, please visit www.inimmune.com. Contact: Media Relations Inimmune Corporation Phone: (406)-541-5913 Email: [email protected] SOURCE Inimmune DUBLIN, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Asia-Pacific Electric Three-Wheeler Market 2018-2028F" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Asia-Pacific electric three-wheeler market is witnessing robust growth, driven by a growing awareness of emissions' dangers, government pollution control regulations, and increasing adoption of electric vehicles. Recent developments in the industry highlight a strong focus on eco-friendly products to meet rising emission standards. Key countries in the region, such as China, India, and Japan, are experiencing a surge in innovations and product launches in the electric three-wheeler category. New startups and joint ventures are also emerging to meet the growing consumer demand. Market Highlights: Environmental Focus: The Asia-Pacific region is making significant strides in producing environmentally friendly vehicles to address the challenges posed by increasing emissions. China , India , Japan , and other nations are witnessing a surge in innovations and product launches in the electric three-wheeler category, reflecting the industry's commitment to sustainability. The region is making significant strides in producing environmentally friendly vehicles to address the challenges posed by increasing emissions. , , , and other nations are witnessing a surge in innovations and product launches in the electric three-wheeler category, reflecting the industry's commitment to sustainability. Government Initiatives: Governments in the region are actively promoting electric vehicles through subsidies and incentives for manufacturers and consumers. These initiatives are spurring the growth of electric three-wheelers in the market. Governments in the region are actively promoting electric vehicles through subsidies and incentives for manufacturers and consumers. These initiatives are spurring the growth of electric three-wheelers in the market. Last-Mile Solutions: Electric three-wheelers are gaining traction as efficient last-mile and short-distance travel solutions. They are cost-effective, require low maintenance, and cater to the daily commuting needs of many consumers. Electric three-wheelers are gaining traction as efficient last-mile and short-distance travel solutions. They are cost-effective, require low maintenance, and cater to the daily commuting needs of many consumers. Charging Infrastructure: To support the growth of electric three-wheelers, countries like India , China , and Japan are investing in charging infrastructure. However, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and the lack of defined charging standards persist. To support the growth of electric three-wheelers, countries like , , and are investing in charging infrastructure. However, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and the lack of defined charging standards persist. COVID-19 Impact: The pandemic disrupted manufacturing and operational activities, including the setup of charging stations. Despite challenges, optimism remains in the Asia-Pacific region, with the expectation of income growth and expanding charging infrastructure. Market Segmentation: The Asia-Pacific Electric Three-Wheeler Market is segmented based on: Vehicle Type: Passenger Carrier and Load Carrier. Passenger Carrier and Load Carrier. Battery Capacity: < 25Ah and >25Ah. < 25Ah and >25Ah. Battery Type: Lead Acid and Li-ion. Lead Acid and Li-ion. Country: China , India , Japan , Malaysia , Indonesia , Thailand , Vietnam , and Singapore . Company Profiles: Leading companies in the Asia-Pacific electric three-wheeler market include Xianghe Qiansheng Electric Tricycle Factory, Euler Motors Private Limited, Omega Seiki Mobility Private Limited, Mahindra & Mahindra Limited, Saera Electric Auto Pvt. Ltd, Changzhou Yufeng Vehicle Co. Ltd, Gayam Motor Works, Piaggio Group, Lohia Auto Industries, and Atul Auto Ltd. Numerous startups are also actively developing efficient electric three-wheelers in the region. Report Scope: The Asia-Pacific Electric Three-Wheeler Market report covers various categories, including vehicle type, battery capacity, battery type, and country-wise segmentation, providing valuable insights into market trends for the forecast period. For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/z5b57n About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg SOURCE Research and Markets ATLANTA, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Robert Litterman, PhD, a founding partner of Kepos Capital, a New York City-based investment firm and chairman of the Kepos Capital Risk Committee, has been elected to a five-year term on the board of directors of the CDC Foundation. In this role, Litterman will join other board members to provide guidance and oversight to the CDC Foundation, which is the independent nonprofit created by Congress to mobilize philanthropic and private-sector resources to support the critical health protection work of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the nation's public health system. As an economist and risk management professional, Litterman spent the majority of his career at Goldman Sachs & Co., where he served in research, risk management, investments and thought leadership roles. He oversaw the Quantitative Investment Strategies Group in the Asset Management division. In 1994, he was named a partner of Goldman Sachs and became head of the firm-wide risk function. Prior to this role, Litterman served as co-director of the Fixed Income Research and Model Development Group. Prior to joining Goldman Sachs, Litterman was an assistant vice president in the Research Department of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, as well as an assistant professor in the Economics Department at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. "I'm excited to welcome Bob to our board. His financial skillset along with his passion for public health, including the health impacts from our changing climate, will play a pivotal role in our mission to extend the lifesaving work of CDC and the public health system," said Judy Monroe, MD, president and chief executive officer of the CDC Foundation. Litterman serves on a number of boards including the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Ceres, World Wildlife Fund, Woodwell Climate Research Center, the Climate Leadership Council, the Niskanen Center, University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) and the Climate-related Financial Risk Advisory Committee (CFRAC) of the Financial Stability Oversight Council. Litterman was inducted into Risk Magazine's Risk Management Hall of Fame and named the 2013 Risk Manager of the Year by the Global Association of Risk Professionals. In 2012, he was the inaugural recipient of the S. Donald Sussman Fellowship at MIT's Sloan School of Management. In 2008, he received the Nicholas Molodovsky Award from the CFA Institute Board as well as the International Association of Financial Engineers/SunGard Financial Engineer of the Year Award. Litterman earned a bachelor of science degree in human biology from Stanford University and a PhD in economics from the University of Minnesota. About The CDC Foundation The CDC Foundation helps the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) save and improve lives by unleashing the power of collaboration between CDC, philanthropies, corporations, organizations and individuals to protect the health, safety and security of America and the world. The CDC Foundation is the go-to nonprofit authorized by Congress to mobilize philanthropic partners and private-sector resources to support CDC's critical health protection mission. Since 1995, the CDC Foundation has raised over $2 billion and launched more than 1,300 programs impacting a variety of health threats from chronic disease conditions including cardiovascular disease and cancer, to infectious diseases like rotavirus and HIV, to emergency responses, including COVID-19 and Ebola. The CDC Foundation managed hundreds of CDC-led programs in the United States and in more than 90 countries last year. Learn more at www.cdcfoundation.org. SOURCE CDC Foundation TRENTON, N.J., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Kane Infrastructure Services Holdings, LLC ("Kane"), an Aterian Investment Partners ("Aterian") portfolio company, is pleased to announce the acquisition of NET100. This represents Kane's third acquisition in the last three years, and the first since John Wozniak joined the platform as CEO in June with a mandate to continue executing strategic acquisitions. For over 30 years, NET100 has been providing structured cabling and related technology systems services to leading customers in the public and private sector throughout the Mid-Atlantic. The company maintains four offices in Virginia (Chantilly, Richmond, Stuarts Draft, and Tidewater) as well as a presence in Maryland (Columbia). NET100 offers a full suite of design, build, and maintenance capabilities enabling the company to provide its customers with a single source for all their network infrastructure and technology solutions needs. "This acquisition represents a continuation of Kane's strategic growth plan to expand nationally. Virginia is a very attractive geography for Kane, and we now have a contiguous operating footprint from New York to South Carolina," said Wozniak. "Additionally, we are excited to enter the region through a leading organization that we can further invest in to enhance the company's capabilities and expand its service offerings," he continued. Bill Paris, vice president of NET100 stated, "We are excited to have found an acquiror that aligned with our strengths, resources, and expertise. We believe this transaction better positions NET100 to achieve our strategic goals, provide more opportunities for our employees, and deliver greater value to our customers." About Kane Kane is a market-leading, full-service digital infrastructure solutions provider, delivering mission-critical services directly to its clients through a nationwide footprint of operating subsidiaries across the United States. For more information, please visit https://www.kane.com SOURCE Kane Infrastructure Services Almost 200 years ago, Juan Martin, owner of some land in Albunol, in the southern Spanish province of Granada, discovered a cave not far from the sea. Difficult to access, it was full of bats and the floor was covered in guano. Those were boom times for Chilean nitrate, a fertilizer obtained from bird droppings. The Bat Cave became the main source of natural nitrogen in the Iberian Peninsula. In 1857, red veins were discovered in it, leading experts to suspect that it contained galena, a mineral rich in lead. It was the worst thing that could happen to the cave. Between the guano and the lead, between need and greed, miners plundered everything that was inside. In the depths of the cavity they found a gallery converted into a cemetery, with dozens of partially mummified human remains and typical items of a funerary trousseau, including tools, bone awls, arrowheads, stone tools... There were also baskets and around 20 sandals made with esparto grass. The curse was completed when a gold diadem was found on one of the corpses. This unleashed a frenzy among the needy locals. Of the nearly 70 bodies, only the skull of a child is preserved in the National Archaeological Museum. It is now known that the basketwork and the footwear are the oldest in Europe. Collective research by around 20 scientists from different disciplines, from geology to history, has analyzed 14 of the dozens of esparto objects from the Bat Cave with current techniques and methodology. Francisco Martinez, an archaeologist from the University of Alcala and lead author of the new study, highlights that there are two large groups of esparto objects and materials. The four best preserved ones are about 9,500 years old, they are from the Mesolithic period, two millennia before agriculture arrived in the region. These esparto baskets are 9,500 years old. These days, artisans still use very similar techniques in southeastern Spain. Proyecto MUTERMUR This means that those who made them were hunter-gatherers. That makes these items the oldest in southern Europe and, probably, in all of Eurasia. The baskets had, like everything else in the cave, a funerary use. Inside some there were still hairs and presents, such as poppy seeds, elements that are being analyzed and whose results will be shared at a later date as part of the Bat Cave research project, MUTERMUR. A 19th-century discovery Ten years after the looting of the Bat Cave began, the Almeria-based lawyer and archaeologist Manuel Gongora y Martinez, who then held the chair of Universal History at the University of Granada, went to Albunol and visited the cave. There he found scattered bones and objects, many charred by the fire of the mining boiler. Gongora recovered what he could, interviewed locals, bought dozens of archaeological remains from them and determined that they were prehistoric. His work occupies half of his 1868 book Prehistoric Antiquities of Andalusia. Official archaeology, headed by the painter and archaeologist Manuel Gomez Moreno, questioned the authenticity of what was found in the cave. Gongora died without getting recognition for the value of what he had found, and his family donated his collection to the archaeological and anthropological museums of the time. It was not until a century later, in the 1970s, that the first particle accelerator in Madrid was able to determine through carbon-14 dating that Gongora was right. Years later, successive dating placed the materials at the beginning of the European Neolithic. Other visitors to the cave left their own funeral baskets there, again made of esparto grass, over the following centuries. But there was something else. In his book, Gongora highlighted that he had recovered a couple of dozen espadrilles. Almost all the sandals were childrens sandals, their size would correspond to a 37 today. They were buried in them, says Martinez. Radiocarbon dating estimates an age of 6,200 years for them. Before this research, published in the scientific journal Science Advances, the oldest known prehistoric shoemaking was a type of espadrilles recovered at a site in Armenia and dated to 5,500 years ago. By comparison, the type of leather ankle boots over plant fiber sandals worn by Otzi, the ice man discovered in the Alps, are 5,300 years old. Beyond the dating, what fascinates Martinez is that two worlds as different as that of hunter-gatherers and Neolithic farmers are united by esparto grass. Maria Herrero, a researcher at the Autonomous University of Barcelona and co-author of the study, is working on a thesis on prehistoric plant fibers. Regarding basketry, Herrero recalls that even older fragments of esparto grass have been found at the Les Coves de Santa Maira site (in Alicante province), dating back 12,500 years, but there is nothing comparable, so well preserved, with so much decoration and variety. As for the sandals, there is no footwear prior to espadrilles in Europe, she adds. In most cases, only the soles remain, but there are a couple of them that still preserve parts of what must have been strips that would cross as they do today in beach sandals and attach them to the ankle. The illustrator of Gongoras book drew them 150 years ago (see image below). Although all the esparto grass found in the cave had funerary uses, Herrero highlights a marked difference. The baskets and other unidentified objects from the Mesolithic, the oldest, were not used or worn out, they were part of the offering. Meanwhile, the later baskets and sandals, the Neolithic ones, were worn and had accompanied the deceased in their lives. Regarding the technology, Herrero highlights that some techniques used, such as sewn spiral basketry, are common to both periods, but also connect the cave with other sites, such as La Draga, in Banyoles, Girona. Even today, the researcher highlights, esparto grass continues to be worked like they did in the Bat Cave. Illustrations from the book by Manuel Gongora y Martinez, showing the espadrilles they found inside the cave. Biblioteca Virtual de Andalucia Part of the wonder of this story is that prehistory has been written by things that last: the bones of human fossils, those of animals converted into utensils or weapons and, above all, stones. Not in vain, the great prehistoric periods - Paleo, Meso or Neo - carry the lithic suffix, which means stone. This is also there in the Bat Cave, but almost nowhere else did objects survive made from fibers obtained from a grass, Macrochloa tenacissima. In other parts of the world, the perennial plant displays flat leaves, but in arid areas such as Albunol, they curl up on themselves forming threads. The problem is that everything made with organic materials is doomed to disappear, especially in a cave. In any other place the baskets and sandals would have disappeared. Organic matter disappears fundamentally because of water, which facilitates the proliferation of bacteria that eat organic matter, explains Jose Antonio Lozano, a geologist from the Canary Islands Oceanographic Center and co-author of the study. But there is no humidity in the Bat Cave due to the climate of the area and the topography and morphology of the cave. Furthermore, the position of the cavity facilitates the arrival of winds that dry out the interior even more. This means that there are hardly any speleothems [stalactites or stalagmites, for example]. It is unique in Europe. The same dry air that preserved the sandals also mummified their bearers: 155 years ago, the archaeologist Gongora y Martinez wrote in his book that the grotto must have had something special, lamenting its plundering: The dryness of the place, the nitro with which the walls were covered [and] another agent difficult to point out, had perfectly preserved the corpses, outfits and utensils. More than 40 centuries have respected that necropolis. Do not tear it to pieces in one day like madmen and fools. BATTLE CREEK, Mich., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Kellogg Company (NYSE: K) announced that 2023 third quarter financial results, which includes financial results for the period ended September 30, 2023, for both Kellanova and WK Kellogg Co, will be issued at approximately 8:00 am EST on Wednesday, November 8, 2023. As previously announced, Kellogg Company on October 2, 2023, will be renamed Kellanova, and will continue to trade on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker symbol "K", while WK Kellogg Co is expected to begin trading on the NYSE under the ticker symbol "KLG". At 12:01am EDT on October 2, 2023, Kellogg shareowners of record as of September 21, 2023, will receive 1 share of WK Kellogg Co (KLG) for every 4 shares of Kellogg Company (K) owned. The two companies will therefore be separate at the time of their upcoming earnings release dates. Kellanova On Wednesday, November 8, 2023, Kellanova will release the 2023 third quarter results for the former Kellogg Company, with indications regarding the performance and outlook of the businesses that comprise the post-separation Kellanova. The following documents will be available on the Company website https://investor.kelloggs.com at 8:00 am EDT: Press release, financial tables, required non-GAAP reconciliations, and presentation slides. The Company will also host a public webcast during which Kellogg executive management will review and discuss these results. Speaking on behalf of Kellogg Company will be Steve Cahillane, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, and Amit Banati, Vice Chairman & Chief Financial Officer. A question-and-answer session with publishing analysts will follow. A transcript of the conference call will be posted on the Company website within 24 hours of the event. Live Webcast Date: Wednesday, November 8, 2023 Time: 9:30 am 10:30 am EDT Presentation Slides: Printable slides available at approximately 8:00 am EDT on Wednesday, November 8 at https://investor.kelloggs.com. Webcast: Live audio webcast with or without slides is available at https://investor.kelloggs.com. Participation by the press in the live Q&A session is in a listen-only mode. Rebroadcast Webcast: Available beginning at 1:00 pm EDT Wednesday, November 8, and for at least 90 days thereafter at https://investor.kelloggs.com. Podcast: MP3 audio file (podcast) available for download beginning at about 1:00 pm EDT on Thursday, November 9 at https://investor.kelloggs.com . WK Kellogg Co On Wednesday, November 8, 2023, WK Kellogg Co will release its carve-out financials for the 2023 third quarter, with indications regarding the performance and outlook of the businesses that comprise the post-separation WK Kellogg Co. The following documents will be available on the Company website at 8:00 am EDT: Press release, financial tables, required non-GAAP reconciliations, and presentation slides. The Company will also host a public webcast during which WK Kellogg Co executive management will review and discuss these results. Speaking on behalf of Kellogg Company will be Gary Pilnick, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, and Dave McKinstray, Chief Financial Officer. A question-and-answer session with publishing analysts will follow. A transcript of the conference call will be posted on the Company website within 24 hours of the event. Details of how to access the WK Kellogg Co webcast will be provided in mid-October. About Kellogg Company At Kellogg Company (NYSE: K), our vision is a good and just world where people are not just fed but fulfilled. We are creating better days and a place at the table for everyone through our trusted food brands. Our beloved brands include Pringles, Cheez-It, Special K, Kellogg's Frosted Flakes, Pop-Tarts, Kellogg's Corn Flakes, Rice Krispies, Eggo, Mini-Wheats, Kashi, RXBAR, MorningStar Farms and more. Net sales in 2022 were over $15.3 billion, comprised principally of snacks as well as convenience foods like cereal, frozen foods, and noodles. As part of our Kellogg's Better Days Promise ESG strategy, we're addressing the interconnected issues of wellbeing, climate and food security, creating Better Days for 3 billion people by the end of 2030. Visit www.KelloggCompany.com. K-FIN K-ER SOURCE Kellogg Company FORT WORTH, Texas, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Kimbell Royalty Partners, LP (NYSE: KRP) ("Kimbell"), a leading owner of oil and natural gas mineral and royalty interests in more than 129,000 gross wells across 28 states, today announced that it will release its third quarter 2023 financial results on Thursday, November 2, 2023, before the market opens. Kimbell will also declare its third quarter 2023 distribution concurrent with this release. In conjunction with the earnings release, Kimbell has scheduled a conference call, which will be broadcast live over the Internet the same day at 10:00 a.m. Central (11:00 a.m. Eastern). By Phone: Dial 201-389-0869 at least 10 minutes before the call. A replay will be available through November 9th by dialing 201-612-7415 and using the conference ID: 13735461#. By Webcast: Connect to the webcast via the Events and Presentations page of Kimbell's Investor Relations website at http://kimbellrp.investorroom.com/. Please log in at least 10 minutes in advance to register and download any necessary software. A replay will be available shortly after the call. About Kimbell Royalty Partners Kimbell (NYSE: KRP) is a leading oil and gas mineral and royalty company based in Fort Worth, Texas. Kimbell owns mineral and royalty interests in over 17 million gross acres in 28 states and in every major onshore basin in the continental United States, including ownership in more than 129,000 gross wells with over 50,000 wells in the Permian Basin. To learn more, visit http://www.kimbellrp.com. Contact: Rick Black Dennard Lascar Investor Relations [email protected] (713) 529-6600 SOURCE Kimbell Royalty Partners, LP CINCINNATI, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), today released its annual Environmental, Social and Governance report sharing progress on Kroger's ESG Strategy, Thriving Together. "The Kroger team firmly believes in the power of our business to serve America and expand access to affordable, fresh and healthy food," said Rodney McMullen, Kroger's chairman and CEO. "As we reflect on the last year, I am pleased at the progress we have made toward our key environmental and social impact goals and incredibly proud of our outstanding team of associates whose dedication to ending hunger enabled us to reach a major Zero Hunger | Zero Waste milestone, donating 3 billion meals for our communities two years ahead of our stated goal." Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Milestones Kroger's Zero Hunger | Zero Waste commitments aim to drive positive impacts for people and our planet by increasing access to fresh, affordable food; responsibly stewarding natural resources by reducing emissions, waste and food waste; and building more sustainable, equitable and resilient food, health and consumer goods systems. Since the launch of the impact plan in 2017, Kroger has given more than $1.3 billion to hunger relief, which includes 582 million pounds of surplus fresh food rescued and donated for a total of 3 billion meals directed to communities. "The progress made over the last year is a true testament to the commitment of every last associate from the frontline to our merchandising, operations, supply chain teams and beyond, who are advancing our vision to create healthy communities free from hunger and waste," said Keith Dailey, Kroger's group vice president of corporate affairs and chief sustainability officer. "We celebrate another year of progress and our associates who make it possible." 2022 ESG Report Highlights People: Help billions live healthier, more sustainable lifestyles Invested more than $650 million in associate wages and training; increased the average wage for hourly store associates to over $18 , bringing the rate to more than $23.50 per hour when comprehensive benefits are includedup 28.2% since 2018. in associate wages and training; increased the average wage for hourly store associates to over , bringing the rate to more than per hour when comprehensive benefits are includedup 28.2% since 2018. Directed $336 million in charitable givingincluding food and fundsto local and national non-profit organizations; of this, $253 million focused on improving food security in communities where we operate, reflecting the Zero Hunger | Zero Waste mission. in charitable givingincluding food and fundsto local and national non-profit organizations; of this, focused on improving food security in communities where we operate, reflecting the Zero Hunger | Zero Waste mission. Rescued and donated 106 million pounds of surplus food through Kroger's Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Food Rescue program. Achieved 100% store participation in the Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Food Rescue program. Planet: Protect and restore natural resources for a brighter future Achieved a 15.2% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from a 2018 baseline due to multiple factors including incorporating more specific emissions factors for electricity consumption and reducing refrigerant emissions. Improved environmental impact by reducing total food waste generated in retail stores by nearly 9% in 2022, and by over 26% since 2017. Achieved 82% waste diversion from landfill company-wide, improving from 79% in the previous year. Achieved goal to source 95% of wild-caught seafood that meets established sustainability criteria. Systems: Build more responsible and inclusive global systems Sourced 20.4M pounds of Fair Trade Certified ingredients for Our Brands products, a 20.8% increase year-over-year, largely driven by transitioning Private Selection coffee to Fair Trade Certified products as part of the Sustainable Coffee Challenge and introducing new Our Brands products in produce and seafood. These purchases contributed $2.1 million in Community Development Funds, which enable farmers around the world to invest in projects like water, education, housing and healthcare for local communities. pounds of Fair Trade Certified ingredients for products, a 20.8% increase year-over-year, largely driven by transitioning Private Selection coffee to Fair Trade Certified products as part of the Sustainable Coffee Challenge and introducing new products in produce and seafood. These purchases contributed in Community Development Funds, which enable farmers around the world to invest in projects like water, education, housing and healthcare for local communities. Exceeded roadmap milestone toward achieving a sustainable transition to a cage-free or higher-welfare egg supply, with the goal to reach 70% cage-free by 2030 (2022 milestone: 33% vs. actual: 33.6%). Completed a new materiality assessment aligned with principles of double materiality to identify and prioritize material ESG topics that reflect the company's potential impact on people and our planet and the potential impact of ESG topics on Kroger's business. Kroger's 2023 Report and other resources can be found at the ESG Hub, ESG Strategy: Thriving Together. About Kroger At The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), we are dedicated to our Purpose: to Feed the Human Spirit. We are, across our family of companies, nearly half a million associates who serve over eleven million customers daily through a seamless digital shopping experience and 2,800 retail food stores under a variety of banner names, serving America through food inspiration and uplift, and creating #ZeroHungerZeroWaste communities by 2025. To learn more about us, visit our newsroom and investor relations site. SOURCE The Kroger Co. Leading legal funding company seeing uptick in malpractice applications in recent months; has implemented specialized training for underwriting department to deal with this growing trend. DALLAS, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Legal-Bay Pre Settlement Funding Company announced today that they are seeing an increase in attorney malpractice funding applications, and putting a greater focus on underwriting and approving Attorney Malpractice legal funding. When a practitioner of the law commits negligence against the very client they have been hired to advise, the resulting lawsuit can get very complex. This type of commercial litigation funding is not popular with most pre settlement funding firms, which makes Legal-Bay the best lawsuit loan company when it comes to Attorney Malpractice plaintiff funding. Lawyers are expected to act in their client's best interest. If they fail to carry out that obligation in a competent wayor with outright intent to harmtheir actions can be classified as legal malpractice. Clients who believe their attorney's representation was damaging to their case may choose to file a lawsuit in order to seek damages. An experienced malpractice lawyer can assist with your decision of whether or not to file suit, and a qualified lawsuit funding provider can help get you the money you have coming to you even before your case sees the inside of a courtroom. Legal-Bay has vast experience with attorney malpractice lawsuits, and is why they are considered one of the best lawsuit funding companies in the industry. Whether you've already filed suit or need a lawyer in order to start the process, Legal-Bay can help. Chris Janish, CEO of Legal-Bay commented, "Resolution for legal malpractice cases can take years to resolve. In the meantime, clients who've been harmed need some sort of financial assistance before they can even begin to get on with their lives. Many plaintiffs frustrated with the sluggish judicial process are choosing to apply for lawsuit funding rather than wait indefinitely for a settlement offer on their case. Unfortunately, this is an underserved market in litigation funding, but not at Legal-Bay." If you require an immediate cash advance settlement loan from your attorney malpractice lawsuit, please visit our website HERE or call 877.571.0405. Some common forms of malpractice include failure to meet deadlines, mistreating a client's trust, and abusing funds; even something as innocuous as failing to return phone calls in a timely fashion could be considered breach of agreement. Grounds for filing suit against your attorney may not be so cut and dry, however. Like any legal proceedings, there are certain steps that will need to be undertaken in order to do so: Firstly, you would need to show that you did, in fact, enter into an attorney-client relationship. Next, you would need to show that negligence was exercised by the attorney within that relationship. Negligence includes things like lack of communication or attention to your case, causing delays, failure to follow your instructions, overbilling, or just all-around general incompetence, to name a few. Lastly, if you can show that your case would have been successful had it not been for your attorney's negligence, you have the makings of a successful legal malpractice case. While challenging to meet these requirements and prove your case's merits, the task is not an impossible one. Legal-Bay can help you figure it out. Their presettlement funding programs can offer immediate cash in advance of a plaintiff's anticipated monetary award. The non-recourse lawsuit loans sometimes referred to as loans for lawsuit or loans on settlementare risk-free, as the money does not need to be repaid should the recipient lose their case. Therefore, the law suit loans aren't really loans, but rather a cash advance. Legal-Bay funds all types of settlement loans including personal injury, slip and falls, car, truck, or boat accidents, commercial litigation, dog bites, medical malpractice, unlawful imprisonment, police brutality, wrongful termination, sexual harassment, discrimination, or assault, and more. If you require an immediate cash advance loan settlement from your malpractice lawsuit, please visit the company's website HERE or call 877.571.0405 where skilled agents are standing by to hear about your specific case. SOURCE Legal-Bay, LLC Beloved Girl Scout Cookie flavors combine with delicious, creamy Skippy peanut butter in 3 appetizing flavor variations AUSTIN, Minn., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Delighting cookie and peanut-butter lovers everywhere, the makers of the Skippy brand are proud to introduce three new variations of Skippy P.B. Bites, all featuring Girl Scout Cookie inspired flavors. This portable, poppable snack offers a whole new indulgent taste experience for Girl Scout Cookie lovers that tastes like dipping those beloved cookies into a fresh jar of creamy Skippy peanut butter, creating an irresistible treat that is sure to please. The new bite-size snacks come in three different flavors: Coconut Caramel, Chocolate Peanut Butter and Adventurefuls. Each Girl Scout Cookie inspired flavor variety Coconut Caramel, Chocolate Peanut Butter and Adventurefuls features a crunchy center with a soft, non-sticky peanut butter coating for easy on-the-go snacking. Hormel Foods corporate logo "The new Skippy P.B. Bites offer Girl Scout Cookie fans a new way to enjoy the flavors of their favorite cookies combined with Skippy peanut butter in this delicious bite-size snack," said Kelsey Tynan, Skippy senior brand manager. "The new Girl Scout will not only deliver a delicious treat to millions of Skippy fans nationwide, but they will also shine a spotlight on this exceptional organization that powers life-changing experiences for girls." Each Girl Scout Cookie inspired flavor variety features a crunchy center with a soft, non-sticky peanut butter coating for easy on-the-go snacking. Coconut Caramel, reminiscent of a favorite Girl Scout cookie variety, features a chocolatey cookie center, encased in a velvety coating of Skippy peanut butter. This bite is perfectly flavored with notes of toasted coconut and caramel and finished with real toasted coconut flakes. Chocolate Peanut Butter, inspired by another beloved Girl Scout cookie flavor, is a delectable treat boasting a vanilla cookie center wrapped in a heavenly coating of Skippy peanut butter and rolled in luscious milk chocolate. Adventurefuls are inspired by their namesake: the popular Adventurefuls cookie. This delicious flavor boasts a chocolatey cookie center enveloped in a tantalizing peanut butter coating with delightful hints of caramel and tossed with sea salt and brownie dust. "Seeing some of the most beloved Girl Scout cookie flavors paired with a brand like Skippy is a wonderful tribute to the Girl Scout Movement, which has encouraged millions of girls to embrace entrepreneurism through our cookie program," said Wendy Lou, chief revenue officer of Girl Scouts of the USA. New Skippy Girl Scout P.B. Bites will be available for purchase at retailers nationwide starting in October. For detailed availability and more information about the Skippy Girl Scout P.B. Bites, visit peanutbutter.com. About the Skippy Brand For more information about Skippy peanut butter products, including recipes, nutritional information and where to buy, visit www.peanutbutter.com or follow the brand on social media: About Girl Scouts of America Girl Scouts brings their dreams to life and work together to build a better world. Through programs from coast to coast, Girl Scouts of all backgrounds and abilities can be unapologetically themselves as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challengeswhether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, lace up their boots for a hike or advocate for climate justice, or make their first best friends. Backed by trusted adult volunteers, mentors, and millions of alums, Girl Scouts leads the way as they find their voices and make changes that affect the issues most important to them. To join us, volunteer, reconnect or donate, visit girlscouts.org. About Hormel Foods Inspired People. Inspired Food. Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minn., is a global branded food company with over $12 billion in annual revenue across more than 80 countries worldwide. Its brands include Planters, Skippy, SPAM, Hormel Natural Choice, Applegate, Justin's, Wholly, Hormel Black Label, Columbus, Jennie-O and more than 30 other beloved brands. The company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, was named on the "Global 2000 World's Best Employers" list by Forbes magazine for three years, is one of Fortune magazine's most admired companies, has appeared on the "100 Best Corporate Citizens" list by 3BL Media 13 times, and has received numerous other awards and accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service efforts. The company lives by its purpose statement Inspired People. Inspired Food. to bring some of the world's most trusted and iconic brands to tables across the globe. For more information, visit hormelfoods.com and csr.hormelfoods.com. Contact: Media Relations Hormel Foods [email protected] SOURCE Hormel Foods Corporation Companies to explore last-mile delivery options targeted in North America Proof-of-concept and in-market pilot program to begin with participating franchisees Initial pilots to provide valuable data and insights into last-mile delivery TOLEDO, Ohio, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Marco's Pizza, one of the nation's fastest growing pizza brands, taps Magna, a global mobility technology company, to explore new mobility solutions in last-mile food delivery in certain locations throughout North America. Magna and Marco's will discuss proof-of-concept followed by a kick-off of in-market pilot projects. Post this Marcos Pizza & Magna explore new mobility solutions in last-mile food delivery. The autonomous, electric on-road delivery vehicle drives up to 20 mph. The two companies signed a memorandum of understanding to test a variety of last-mile delivery platform options, including autonomous and electric solutions, with Marco's franchisees. Each last-mile delivery platform provides Marco's franchisees with purpose-built, dedicated delivery solutions that are low-cost and environmentally friendly. "As one of the largest pizza brands, we invest in innovations that drive our franchisees' businesses forward while meeting the needs of today's modern customer," said Rick Stanbridge, Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer for Marco's Pizza. "Our strategic collaboration with Magna exemplifies this forward-thinking approach, and we plan to leverage their expertise to amplify our operations and elevate customer satisfaction." Over the next several months, Magna and Marco's will discuss proof-of-concept followed by a kick-off of in-market pilot projects with participating franchisees. These initial projects will provide valuable data and insights into last-mile delivery usage rates, customer acceptance and overall efficiency. "As we look at how people and goods will move in the future, we are continuously identifying new applications and technologies to match the needs of the expanded mobility landscape, the last-mile delivery market being one of them," said Matteo Del Sorbo, Executive Vice President at Magna and Global Lead for Magna New Mobility. "By collaborating with a company like Marco's, we want to not only create an exceptional experience for their franchisees and customers but continue to evolve our last-mile delivery offerings." ABOUT MARCO'S PIZZA Headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, Marco's Pizza is one of the fastest-growing pizza brands in the United States. Marco's was founded in 1978 by Italian-born Pasquale ("Pat") Giammarco and thrives to deliver a high-quality pizza experience, known for its dough made from scratch and its three fresh signature cheeses. The company has grown from its roots as a beloved Ohio brand to operate over 1,100 stores in 34 states with locations in Puerto Rico and the Bahamas. Most recently, Marco's Pizza was ranked No. 51 on Entrepreneur Magazine's 2023 "Franchise 500" ranking. Other recent accolades include a high ranking on Newsweek's 2023 "America's Best Customer Service" in pizza chains list, earning a spot on QSR's Top 50, and being featured on Nation's Restaurant News' prestigious "Top 500" ranking. SOURCE Marco's Pizza New partnership strengthens services and capabilities for a client base made up of some of the world's most iconic brands ALPHARETTA, Ga., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MarketSource, Inc. ("MarketSource"), a leader in outsourced sales services, today announced the acquisition of Salelytics, LLC ("Salelytics"), a premier provider of outsourced contact center services resulting in a powerful combination within the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry. Together, these brands are positioned to provide a superior level of customer experience that is highly desired and sought-after in the BPO industry; in an environment that leverages best-of-breed, contact-center technologies and scale, all while exceeding the business outcomes expected by each company's respective client base. Specifically, combining Salelytics' cutting-edge, AI-supported contact center technologies with MarketSource's white-glove, highly integrated sales center operations will create a unique pairing that is unmatched in the industry today. New partnership strengthens services and capabilities for client base made up of some of the world's most iconic brands Post this With over 30 years of experience in outsourced sales, MarketSource delivers field and inside sales solutions for some of the world's most iconic brands. Owned by Allegis Group, Inc., the largest privately held talent solutions provider in the world, MarketSource is headquartered in Alpharetta, GA, with a satellite office in Jacksonville, FL. The company serves retail and B2B clients in the automotive, manufacturing, telecom, IT, software, consumer electronics, home appliances, mobile and home improvement industries. Salelytics has over 30 years of experience in contact center solutions and is headquartered in Appleton, WI, with additional operations in San Antonio, TX. The company serves clients in the financial services, healthcare, logistics, pharma and consumer packaged goods industries. "Our clients have long been requesting an expansion of our capabilities to better support them in large sales center and call center environments," said MarketSource President and CEO Rick Haviland. "Not only can we continue to offer our capabilities in field sales, inside sales and account management, but this acquisition enables us to do it at scale, utilizing advanced technologies to support clients in their growth efforts. In addition, it will allow MarketSource to expand into new verticals we've been interested in for some time." He continued, "Additionally, the combination of our two companies will also deliver new capabilities to Salelytics customers that have been asking for field sales representation, with the same world-class experience they currently offer through inside sales. Together, we are able to deliver a true end-to-end sales solution and customer experience that differentiates us in the BPO industry." "We are thrilled to join the MarketSource family," said Salelytics President Scott Krueger. "The ability to expand into new verticals, like automotive, and provide field sales capabilities to our current clients is a game changer for us. MarketSource is invested in our people and in our future; and I am excited to blaze this new trail together." About MarketSource, Inc. MarketSource, Inc. a managed sales solutions provider and leader in outsourced sales services is focused on delivering better outcomes for many of the world's most iconic brands. We design and operationalize sales and customer experience solutions for companies in retail and B2B environments. Our solutions are purpose-built and tech-enabled to deliver measurable improvements in business outcomes. Learn more at www.MarketSource.com. About Salelytics, LLC Salelytics, LLC, is a premier provider of outsourced contact center services, including inside sales, account management, and inbound support services. We help clients drive sales, increase market share and strengthen relationships with their customers. Learn more at www.Salelytics.com. About Allegis Group As the global leader in talent solutions, we take pride in what we do, connecting great people to great opportunities, helping businesses win and careers soar. Today, with $15.9 billion in revenues and 500+ global locations, Allegis Group and its network of specialized companies provide a full suite of complementary talent solutions that solves nearly every workforce challenge to empower business success, while consistently delivering an unsurpassed quality experience. Our companies include Aerotek; TEKsystems; Aston Carter; Actalent; Allegis Global Solutions; Major, Lindsey & Africa; MarketSource; Getting Hired; CareerCircle; and QuantumWork. Learn more at www.AllegisGroup.com. Media Contact : Melissa Corey Director, Communications MarketSource, Inc. (770) 325-1687 [email protected] SOURCE MarketSource, Inc. ALTRA | SANEXEN's Vice-President of Innovation and Head of the PFAS Centre for Excellence wins the Clean Technology Award MONTREAL, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Martin Bureau, Vice-President of Innovation and Head of the PFAS Centre for Excellence at ALTRA | SANEXEN, has won the 2024 Clean50 Award, in the Clean Technology category. The prestigious Clean50 award recognizes leaders from across Canada who have done the most to advance climate action and develop smart climate solutions. Martin Bureau, Vice-President of Innovation and Head of the PFAS Centre for Excellence at ALTRA | SANEXEN (CNW Group/Altra-Sanexen) Clean50 Logo (CNW Group/Altra-Sanexen) "We at ALTRA | SANEXEN are immensely honored by this recognition," said Martin Bureau, Vice-President of Innovation and Head of the PFAS Centre for Excellence. "Our entire team has worked tirelessly in the last few years to develop new technologies that can change the world for the better. We will continue to tackle the broad environmental challenges our planet is facing, and in turn, contribute to our communities' resiliency." During their time at ALTRA | SANEXEN, Martin and his colleagues have pioneered the water main renewal technology that has been installed over 2,400 km in over 350 North American cities which saved 21.2 billion litres of drinking water. And just in the last two years, the Innovation team led the development of an extremely powerful PFAS removal and concentration technology designed for water, industrial effluent and leachate applications, now adopted in solid waste landfills and soon by publicly-owned wastewater treatment plants. ALTRA | SANEXEN was recently awarded a 10-year contract to provide the first-of-its-kind continuous full-scale PFAS treatment solution to the solid and industrial waste management industry. Martin, supported by his team, was instrumental in the development of this new technology, which led to establishing the company's "Clean Water-as-a-Service" business model. "We are extremely proud of this award. Leveraging our top-ranked position in this market, we are poised, under our technological and commercial leadership, to continue attracting the industry's best experts to join our team at ALTRA | SANEXEN and create tremendous long-term growth opportunities," added Jean-Francois Bolduc, President of ALTRA | SANEXEN. " The award was presented at the Clean50 Summit, which took place on September 28 in Toronto. These awards have been recognizing people, projects and technologies that have made significant contributions to Canada's water industry for now 13 years. About ALTRA | SANEXEN ALTRA | SANEXEN, a member of the LOGISTEC family, is a leading provider of environmental solutions for over 38 years. With its key business lines Specialized Environmental Services and Water Solutions ALTRA | SANEXEN continues to deliver creative and customized solutions to industrial, municipal and governmental customers and partners. ALTRA | SANEXEN's environmental engineers and scientists combined with their in-house research and development teams continue to explore and implement new technologies to address the ever-evolving environmental issues the world faces today. For more information, visit altragroup.com. About Clean50 The Canada's Clean50 award program and Summit were founded in 2011 by Canada's leading clean tech and sustainability executive search firm, Delta Management Group, and CEO Gavin Pitchford, in response to a trend the firm noted when performing executive searches on behalf of clients. The Clean50 Awards were created as a way to identify leaders from every industry, and the Clean50 Summit as a way to bring those same leaders together in order to work together to address the solutions needed for climate change. Each fall for the last 12 years, Canada's Clean50 list has marked the accomplishments of sustainability leaders in 19 different categories. For more information, visit clean50.com SOURCE Altra-Sanexen GREENWICH, Conn., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Southfield Capital, a premier lower middle market private equity firm, announced today that Milrose Consultants ("Milrose"), a national leader in building compliance services and solutions, has completed its strategic partnership with JM Zoning, LLC, a well-known municipal permitting and zoning consulting firm based out of New York City, and Project Expediters Consulting Corp. ("PECC"), a well-established permit expediting firm based out of Englishtown, NJ. The two transactions represent Milrose's eighth and ninth since partnering with Southfield. JM Zoning, founded in 2006 by Joey Goldzal, provides guidance to the nation's top property owners, development firms, and industry partners. Known for their consistent client service and professional expertise with a focus on multi-family residential, new building development, and commercial-to-residential conversions, JM Zoning has become a go-to municipal building consulting, permitting, and code and zoning firm in New York City. PECC, founded in 2002 by Coral Silsbe, is a boutique expediting firm that specializes in helping clients navigate the planning and zoning approval process throughout the country. With over two decades of experience serving as the go-to permit expeditors for commercial and mixed-use developments, PECC offers a wide variety of services including entitlement approvals, code consulting, zoning analysis, due diligence, utility coordination and installation. The combination of Milrose, JM Zoning and PECC will allow the companies to leverage each other's capabilities to better serve their clients and enhance the portfolio of services they can offer across a national footprint. The new alliance follows a series of investments that Milrose has made to broaden and scale its portfolio of services since partnering with Southfield. Dominic Maurillo, CEO of Milrose, expressed his enthusiasm about the announcement, stating "We are excited to extend a warm welcome to JM Zoning and PECC, as they become an integral part of Milrose's team of technical experts. JM Zoning has a phenomenal reputation in the New York real estate industry, and they bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in converting commercial properties into residential developments to the Milrose team and our clients. Additionally, the Milrose and PECC partnership will allow both companies to leverage each other's unique strengths to deliver better, more efficient consulting services to our clients at every stage of the project lifecycle and across all building end markets nationally." Southfield Principal, Chris Grambling, commented on the transaction, "We are thrilled to join forces with these two great companies. The addition of JM Zoning further diversifies our end markets and provides Milrose clients with expertise in converting commercial properties into residential developments. PECC adds new expertise and service offerings while broadening our geographic footprint, positioning Milrose to create unparalleled value for its clients." Monroe Capital provided debt financing. Wiggin & Dana provided legal counsel to Milrose and Southfield. East Wind Advisors served as the financial advisor to JM Zoning. About Milrose Consultants Milrose Consultants is the leading national provider of building code compliance, fulfillment, and consulting solutions spanning a broad spectrum of industry sectors including commercial, retail, industrial, multi-family residential, healthcare, and life sciences. Founded in 1988, Milrose enables clients to outsource the burden associated with navigating the complex building compliance environment through its diverse portfolio of permitting, code and zoning, regulatory filing, due diligence, and other compliance solutions. For more information, please visit www.milrose.com. About Southfield Capital Southfield Capital is a private equity firm that invests in high-growth, lower middle market companies in the outsourced business services sector. The firm targets companies with $4 - 15 million in EBITDA and partners with management to scale the business through a combination of organic and acquisition growth strategies. For more information, please visit www.southfieldcapital.com. Media Contact: Southfield Capital, LLC 140 Greenwich Avenue Greenwich Connecticut 06830 Telephone: 203.813.4100 www.southfieldcapital.com SOURCE Southfield Capital Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Merrimack Valley nurses held a one-day strike seeking a fair contract and DFCI locked nurses out, spent money on replacement workers BOSTON, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- During a lockout inflicted on Merrimack Valley nurses and patients by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) following a one-day strike, nurses will meet outside the DFCI hospital in Boston on Friday, September 29 to leaflet the public and share their concerns about how Dana-Farber executives are spending critical resources. Boston DFCI Event Details Where: On the sidewalk outside Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston along Jimmy Fund Way. When: 11 a.m. Friday, September 29 Who: Dana-Farber nurses from Boston and Merrimack Valley. What: Nurses will be sharing leaflets with the public describing what DFCI MV nurses are seeking in a first MNA contract so they can continue providing high-quality cancer care to MV patients. DFCI MV nurses and nurse practitioners held a one-day strike on September 27 because DFCI executives refused to make reasonable compromises with nurses to reach a fair contract. Instead of reaching a reasonable compromise with nurses, DFCI is refusing to let nurses back to work following the strike. DFCI executives are spending money on travelers rather than allowing local nurses to care for their patients. DFCI is disaffiliating from Brigham and Women's Hospital and spending millions on a new inpatient hospital. Yet it won't invest properly in nurses serving a diverse population in MV. DFCI MV nurses have made compromises already and are seeking to secure Merrimack Valley-based benefits in their contract and pay that is competitive in Merrimack Valley and a reasonable difference from DFCI Boston pay. DFCI has made minimal movement since nurses announced their strike, including no agreement on maintaining benefits throughout the contract or daily overtime standards. "We are incredibly grateful for the support our community showed us during our one-day strike," said Kate Mitchell, FNP-BC, AOCNP at DFCI MV. "Patients joined us on the strike line because we are fighting for their cancer care, and they deserve nurses who are truly valued." "Our strike showed that the Merrimack Valley community and our elected officials are behind us in our fight for a fair contract," said Kerrin Albert, Infusion RN at DFCI MV. "Don't listen to Dana-Farber executives we have compromised and made reasonable contract proposals. Dana-Farber has stubbornly insisted on giving us far less because we are not in Boston." "Dana-Farber makes huge profits and enriches its executives while Merrimack Valley nurses must strike and be locked out for fair benefits and wages," said Errin D'Arcangelo, Oncology Nurse Navigator at DFCI MV. "We think Dana-Farber should spend its money which comes from patients, donors, and the public on respecting nurses and maintaining high-quality patient care." DFCI MV nurses voted 97% to authorize a strike on August 2. DFCI MV nurses held an informational picket on June 2. Among those in attendance supporting the nurses were State Senator Pavel Payano, D-Lawrence, and State Representative Ryan Hamilton, D-Methuen. "As you know, these healthcare professionals are on the front lines of caring for patients and liaising with families," Rep. Hamilton wrote in an August 2 letter to Dr. Laurie Glimcher, president, and CEO of Dana-Farber. "They play a vital role here in Merrimack Valley by supporting patients through the hardship of a cancer diagnosis and bolstering our fight against this disease." DFCI Merrimack Valley opened in 2020 with 24 exam rooms and 32 infusion bays. The location offers expanded cancer and blood disorder care and outpatient services for adult patients in the region. DFCI MV nurses voted in June and July 2022 to form a union and join the MNA. The MNA also represents approximately 600 nurses at the DFCI campus in Boston under a separate contract. Dana-Farber Financial Highlights MassNurses.org Facebook.com/MassNurses Twitter.com/MassNurses Instagram.com/MassNurses Founded in 1903, the Massachusetts Nurses Association is the largest union of registered nurses in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Its 25,000 members advance the nursing profession by fostering high standards of nursing practice, promoting the economic and general welfare of nurses in the workplace, projecting a positive and realistic view of nursing, and by lobbying the Legislature and regulatory agencies on health care issues affecting nurses and the public. SOURCE Massachusetts Nurses Association Republican presidential candidates, from left, former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, former Vice President Mike Pence, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum stand at their podiums during a Republican presidential primary debate hosted by FOX News Channel Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023, in Milwaukee. The second Republican presidential debate is drawing near with a smaller onstage lineup than the first event last month. Heres all of the information on how to watch: Tuning in The two-hour debate will start at 9 p.m. ET on Wednesday. Its being moderated by Fox Business Network host Stuart Varney and Fox News Channel host Dana Perino, as well as Univision anchor Ilia Calderon. The event will air on Fox News Channel and Fox Business, as well as on the networks website and other streaming and digital platforms. Theres also a Spanish-language feed airing on Univision. As with last months debate, the Republican National Committee has partnered with Rumble a video-sharing platform popular with some conservatives to livestream this one, in lieu of the networks YouTube channel. RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel said earlier this year this was a decision aimed toward getting away from Big Tech. Where is it? The setting for the second GOP debate is Ronald Reagans presidential library in Simi Valley, California. Many of the Republican hopefuls have made recent trips to the library for its A Time for Choosing speaking series, named for Reagans pivotal 1964 speech on behalf of GOP presidential candidate Barry Goldwater. Some in the field also make references on the stump to the 40th president, who for decades has loomed large over Republican politics. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has framed himself as a possible Reagan-esque figure, aiming to oust what he characterized as a weak and unpopular Democratic incumbent in President Joe Biden. Former Vice President Mike Pence often talks of how he joined the Reagan revolution and never looked back, and took his oath with his hand on the Reagan family Bible. In the first debate, biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy called himself the only candidate in this race, young or old, black or white, to bring all of those voters along to deliver a Reagan 1980 Revolution. Who will be there? The RNC confirmed seven candidates will be on the Simi Valley debate stage. The party set a number of markers that candidates needed to meet to qualify, including achieving benchmarks in polling and donor numbers, as well as signing a pledge to support the eventual Republican nominee. Those who qualified for the debate are DeSantis, Ramaswamy, Pence, Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum. Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, who took part in last months debate, missed making the cut. Trump will miss his second debate in a row, deciding there is little upside in joining his lower-polling rivals on stage given his commanding early lead in polls. Instead, he will meet with current and former union workers in Michigan, where thousands of autoworkers have been on strike as part of a labor dispute involving Detroits Big Three and the United Auto Workers union. In lieu of last months debate, Trump participated in an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, a pre-taped sit-down that aired on social media just as eight of his rivals took the stage in Wisconsin. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition NANNING, China, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In recent days, construction of T3 and support facilities at Nanning Wuxu International Airport is progressing steadily ahead in full steam. To overcome problems encountered during the airport expansion process, head of the National Nanning Economic & Technological Development Area's "leadership group for expediting solutions of corporate needs" arrived at the front line on September 9 to study and determine solutions for rerouting of roadways, repairs of water channels and other construction issues. Companies have lauded the high quality and high efficiency of the Nanning Economic & Technological Development Area. With a total investment of 19.8 billion yuan, the Nanning Wuxu International Airport T3 and support facilities construction project aims to build a brand-new terminal 432,000 square meters in area, along with relevant facilities designed to handle an annual passenger throughput of 34 million person/times. The Nanning Wuxu International Airport T3 and support facilities construction project will play a significantly role in Guangxi's establishment of the new western land-sea corridor, integration into the joint development of the Belt and Road, economic cooperation with RCEP nations in a high-quality manner, contribution to the formation of a China-ASEAN community of common destiny, and endeavor in serving and incorporating into the new development pattern. Yang Jun, head of the Command Department of the Nanning Airport Group, indicates: "Since this year, staff from the Nanning Economic & Technological Development Area have provided numerous assistance in coordinating the resolution of issues in the airport expansion project. Their help has been instrumental in ensuring steady progress of the airport expansion project, and we truly appreciate their passionate and highly efficient services." It has been known that 4.383 billion yuan in investment for airport expansion has been completed since project commencement. SOURCE National Nanning Economic & Technological Development Area Management Committee WASHINGTON, Sept. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Following is a statement from Eileen O'Reilly, president of the National Press Club, and Gil Klein, president of the National Press Club Journalism Institute, on the decision by China to delay a verdict in sentencing well-known Chinese journalist, Yuyu Dong for alleged acts of espionage. "China is the world's No. 1 jailer of journalists, so convicting journalists as a form of punishment is nothing new for them. But, delaying the verdict in the espionage case of journalist Yuyu Dong may signal a new and very dangerous era has begun. Mr. Dong is not a spy, so China had no evidence to present at trial. They delayed the verdict until Sept. 27. Now they are delaying again for three months. If they had even a shred of evidence they would have convicted him a year ago. Yet, Mr. Dong is the most senior and most prominent Chinese journalist known to be unjustly imprisoned in China. He is well known to the academic and journalism communities in Japan and the U.S. He is the epitome of the kind of people-to-people exchanges that China has been working so hard to establish and maintain for the past 30 years. That era is now over. In its place is China's new anti-espionage act where any scholar or journalist (even the dean of the Beijing press corps) who is in contact with universities or similar communities overseas is in danger of being jailed for espionage. The trial for this case took place in secret in late July. Mr. Dong's family and friends were not allowed to attend. No press was allowed to attend the trial. There is no published record for the public to read. This is how journalists are sent to prison in China. Mr. Dong was arrested in February 2022. He was held for 18 months without charges or a trial. Now that is being extended another three months. This Sunday is China's National Day. And in November, President Xi is expected to attend the APEC conference in California. China does not want stories about Mr. Dong's unjust detention in the news during those days. Why doesn't China turn this into a positive by letting Mr. Dong go? He has already served 18 months, during which time he has not been allowed to see or talk to his family. On behalf of all National Press Club members and journalists everywhere, we call on China to end this delayed verdict and send Mr. Dong home. " Founded in 1908, the National Press Club is the world's leading professional organization for journalists. With 3,000 members representing nearly every major journalism organization, the Club is a leading voice for press freedom worldwide. The National Press Club Journalism Institute promotes an engaged, global, citizenry, through an independent and free press. The Institute is the non-profit arm of the National Press Club. Contact: Bill McCarren, 202-662-7534 for the National Press Club SOURCE National Press Club DALLAS , Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- After nearly seven years of a "David vs. Goliath" fight against the FTC, Neora, a leading science-based skincare and wellness company, celebrates a historic victory. On Thursday, Sep. 28, the judge overseeing the case, Fed. Trade Comm'n v. Neora LLC, Civil Action 3:20-cv-01979-M (N.D. Tex. Sep. 28, 2023), ruled that the FTC's claims were invalid, handing a monumental victory to Neora. "When we proactively filed suit against the FTC on Nov. 1, 2019, challenging the over-reach of the FTC, we knew we would have a battle on our hands, but we were supremely confident that the facts and data would show the truth," says Jeff Olson, CEO of Neora. "Living out our mission statement of making people better sometimes means taking the road less traveled, making the hard choice to defend what is right at all costs. This isn't just a win for our industry, it's a win for American entrepreneurship." According to Olson, the FTC's overreach poses a real risk for American small business, the backbone of the U.S. economy. These efforts are so egregious, that one of the FTC's own commissioners, Christine Wilson, recently resigned from the agency. In doing so, she cited her concerns over the FTC's leadership and its blatant disregard for the rule of law and due process, as revealed in an April 2021 op-ed in the Wall Street Journal. "We are thrilled with the judge's ruling, which affirms what we have known all along that Neora is an ethical company," explained Deborah Heisz, Co-CEO of Neora. "Our brand partners have worked diligently to build their businesses and this ruling is a testament to their hard work and dedication. We are proud to be part of an industry that empowers entrepreneurs especially women and creates real opportunities for success." The ruling also emphasizes the importance of protecting the rights of legitimate direct selling companies. Neora has always been committed to operating with integrity and transparency, and this ruling validates the company's unwavering dedication to its brand partners, customers and employees. "We have always been focused on providing exceptional products to our customers and unparalleled support to our brand partners, and this win is a testament to our commitment to their success," added Heisz. "We are grateful for the trust our brand partners have placed in us and are excited to continue empowering them on their entrepreneurial journey." Neora has a long-standing track record of creating confidence among its customers, brand partners, employees, media, and business groups. The company's dedication to protecting America's small businesses and promoting mainstream American entrepreneurship is at the heart of its mission. As Neora celebrates this historic victory, they look forward to continuing to lead the way in bringing to market-innovative, clean, performance-based skincare and wellness products that deliver on their promise of creating real results for its customers for decades to come. About Neora: Based in Dallas, TX, Neora is a leader in the holistic beauty and wellness space, bringing to market unique clean performance-driven products based on real science.. Founded in 2011, Neora has experienced impressive growth, with a strong customer base and dedicated Brand Partners throughout North America, Latin America and the Asia-Pacific. Visit http://www.neora.com for more information. Media Contacts: Jeff Cheatham The Power Group [email protected] (972) 961-6171 Amy Power The Power Group [email protected] (214) 693-2146 SOURCE Neora Niloo will leverage her experience leading corporate and product strategies across the cybersecurity industry to support NetSPI's future growth MINNEAPOLIS, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- NetSPI, the global leader in offensive security, today announced the appointment of Niloo Razi Howe to its Board of Directors. Niloo brings an incredible track record of supporting companies equipped for major market disruption and will support NetSPI at a pivotal moment as the company revamps its product strategy. "The attack surface is expanding as new technologies are implemented at a breakneck pace. If you're not continuously validating your security posture, you're leaving your business wide open to evolving threats," shared Niloo. "Having an offensive, adversarial mindset is critical to figuring out how to secure your business and build resiliency. I'm thrilled to support the NetSPI team as they continue to build solutions to these real, table stakes issues and help organizations get proactive with their security." Niloo has been an investor, executive and entrepreneur in the technology industry for the past 25 years, with a focus on cybersecurity for the past 15. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of Pondurance, Tenable, Composecure, Recorded Future, Swimlane, among other notable cybersecurity companies. Prior to these appointments, Niloo was the Chief Strategy Officer for global cybersecurity companies RSA and Endgame where she led corporate strategy, development, and planning. Niloo also serves on several US government advisory boards including the Cybersecurity Infrastructure Security Agency's (CISA) Advisory Council. "Niloo's experience advising and leading high-growth, innovative cybersecurity companies is unmatched," said Aaron Shilts, CEO at NetSPI. "She is exceptional at looking to the future and determining how organizations must adapt and evolve to succeed and we couldn't be more excited to have her join NetSPI during this period of evolution and disruption in offensive security." This appointment follows consecutive years of high growth for NetSPI. In 2022, the offensive security company achieved 58 percent organic revenue growth, driven by continuous adoption of its Penetration Testing as a Service (PTaaS), Attack Surface Management (ASM), and Breach and Attack Simulation (BAS) platforms. Niloo will be instrumental in advising NetSPI's product roadmap and vision. Learn more about NetSPI, its leadership team, and Board of Directors at https://www.netspi.com/about-us/. About NetSPI NetSPI is the global leader in offensive security, delivering the most comprehensive suite of penetration testing, attack surface management, and breach and attack simulation solutions. Through a combination of technology innovation and human ingenuity NetSPI helps organizations discover, prioritize, and remediate security vulnerabilities. Its global cybersecurity experts are committed to securing the world's most prominent organizations, including nine of the top 10 U.S. banks, four of the top five leading cloud providers, four of the five largest healthcare companies, three FAANG companies, seven of the top 10 U.S. retailers & e-commerce companies, and many of the Fortune 500. NetSPI is headquartered in Minneapolis, MN, with offices across the U.S., Canada, the UK, and India. Media Contacts: Tori Norris, NetSPI [email protected] (630) 258-0277 Jessica Bettencourt, Inkhouse for NetSPI [email protected] (774) 451-5142 SOURCE NetSPI BEIJING, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from chinadaily.com.cn: By promoting universal human values and enhancing equal exchanges among different civilizations, countries today have the ability to create a more improved global society and address worldwide issues, officials and scholars emphasized at the ninth Nishan Forum on World Civilizations. The forum, held from Sept 26 to 28 in Qufu, East China's Shandong province, the hometown of ancient Chinese sage Confucius, attracted 330 foreign guests including ambassadors from various countries, representatives from international organizations, friendly provinces and cities, as well as over 1,000 Chinese and foreign experts and scholars, to discuss the integration and mutual learning of civilizations, and to seek solutions to global challenges. Vice-Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress Shohrat Zakir announced the opening of the forum. Addressing the event, he emphasized that equal communication and mutual learning among different civilizations would provide a strong spiritual guidance for humanity to solve problems of the times and achieve common development. He highlighted the importance of respecting the diversity of human civilizations, promoting inclusiveness, and advocating common values of humanity to build a community with a shared future for mankind. In a written message to the forum, Liu Yandong, president of International Confucian Association, underlined the need to harness the power of civilizations, and uphold the principles of solidarity, inclusiveness and mutual learning. She called for promoting the excellent cultural heritage of all ethnic groups throughout the country, nurturing the vigor of global dialogue and cooperation, injecting new impetus into the process of human modernization and the construction of a global community with a shared future. "It is because of the 'common values for mankind' that we gather here. Although we come from different countries and have different cultural backgrounds, we all have one thing in common, which is our love for China and Chinese culture," Ehsan Doostmohammadi said at the Nishan World Forum on Youth, one of the sub-forums. Doostmohammadi, from Iran, developed a strong interest in Chinese medicine after witnessing the effectiveness of acupuncture on a friend's injured hand. He moved to Shanghai in 2009 at age 23 and went to Shandong two years later to study at Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. His understanding of Chinese culture deepened in Shandong, the hometown of philosophers Confucius and Mencius, as he stated: "The province has a profound cultural heritage which provides rich content for the world to learn." Now, he aims to contribute to the cross-cultural exchange among civilizations. Since its establishment in 2010, the Nishan forum has consistently emphasized the dialogue between diverse global cultures. Through its successful sessions, it has emerged as a crucial platform to foster the preservation and growth of traditional Chinese culture, promote universal human values, and enhance international exchange and collaboration in areas of human studies. The previous editions focused on dialogue, exchange, and diversity. Experts and scholars from various cultural backgrounds had intense discussions and agreed that respect, equality, and mutual appreciation are essential for peaceful coexistence and mutual development among different civilizations. Shandong province, by virtue of being the birthplace and family home of Confucius, has made great strides in expanding the international influence of Chinese civilizations and stimulating the vitality of cultural innovation and creativity so as to build a new center for cultural exchange and mutual learning. The Nishan forum has expanded from being focused on academic fields to discussions on culture, education, history, and then to fields such as international politics, economy, ecology, media, art and traditional Chinese medicine. SOURCE chinadaily.com.cn SAN JOSE, Calif., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Open XR Forum announced today that it will host a symposium on October 3 at the European Conference on Optical Communication (ECOC). The symposium, open to all attendees, will be held at the ECOC Exhibition 2023 SEC Product Focus Area, Hall 3 in Glasgow, Scotland, from 10:00 a.m. 11:30 a.m. BST. This symposium will feature the latest transceiver specifications, including thermal mechanical form factor and electro-optical characteristics. The symposium will also highlight multi-vendor use cases, including full-featured host-independent management, multipoint aggregation, and high-speed business services over passive optical network (PON) infrastructures. Open XR Forum symposium member speakers include: Mark Watts , Distinguished Member of Technical Staff, Verizon , Distinguished Member of Technical Staff, Verizon Harald Bock , VP, Network & Technology Strategy, Infinera , VP, Network & Technology Strategy, Infinera Andrea Di Giglio , Systems Specialist at Telecom Italia Lab, TIM , Systems Specialist at Telecom Italia Lab, TIM Kevin Driscoll , VP, Strategic Sales, LightRiver , VP, Strategic Sales, LightRiver Andrew Lord, Sr. Manager, Optical Networks Research, BT Manager, Optical Networks Research, BT David Hillerkuss, Director, Open XR Forum Jose Manuel Rivas-Moscoso , Optical Transport Innovation Technical Lead, Telefonica CTIO , Optical Transport Innovation Technical Lead, Telefonica CTIO Dave Welch , Founder and Chief Innovation Officer, Infinera For more information about the Open XR Forum Symposium at ECOC, please visit www.openxrforum.org. About Open XR Forum Open XR Forum was founded to foster collaboration between its members to facilitate the adoption and accelerate the growth of network architectures leveraging intelligent point-to-point and point-to-multipoint coherent pluggable transceivers. Members will work to ensure the products and services developed align with existing standards and operational models by driving the standardization of network interfaces and electro-mechanical hardware interfaces, demonstrating interoperability, establishing multi-sourcing potential, and developing and publishing new specifications as needed. This will accelerate the wide adoption and deployment of XR optics' innovative technology by a broad spectrum of network operators in a wide variety of applications. Open XR Forum membership is intended for network operators, network equipment vendors, and component suppliers. For more information, visit www.openxrforum.org. Media Contact Engage PR for Open XR Forum Jeannette Bitz [email protected] SOURCE Open XR Forum NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The organic tea market size is expected to grow by USD 552.51 million from 2022 to 2027. In addition, the growth momentum of the market will progress at a CAGR of 8.62% during the forecast period, according to Technavio. Increasing health benefits of organic tea are notably driving the organic tea market. However, factors such as the impact of overconsumption of tea may impede market growth. The market is segmented by Distribution Channel (Offline and Online), Type (Leaf and powder, Teabag, and Liquid), and Geography (APAC, Europe, North America, South America, and Middle East and Africa). We provide a detailed analysis of 20 companies operating in the organic tea market, including Arbor Teas, Big Heart Tea Co., Bigelow Tea, Cup of Te, Davidsons Organics, Divinitea, East West Tea Company LLC, ECOTONE, Halssen and Lyon GmbH, Harney and Sons Fine Teas, Numi Inc., ORGANIC India Pvt. Ltd., PepsiCo Inc., R. Twining and Co. Ltd., The Coca Cola Co., The Hain Celestial Group Inc., The Republic of Tea Inc., Tielka Pty Ltd, Unilever PLC, and Tata Sons Pvt. Ltd.. The report offers an up-to-date analysis of the market, and to know the exact growth variance and the Y-O-Y growth rate, Request a Free Sample Report. Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Organic Tea Market 2023-2027 Organic Tea Market 2023-2027: Company Analysis Arbor Teas: The company offers organic tea, such as organic Japan benifuuki black tea, organic Japan oolong tea, and organic matcha green tea in select ceremonial grades. This report provides a full list of key companies, their strategies, and the latest developments. Buy Now for detailed company information Organic Tea Market 2023-2027: Segmentation Distribution Channel The offline segment is significant during the forecast period. This distribution channel mainly comprises supermarkets and hypermarkets as well as health food stores, and independent retailers, among others. Factors like the growing availability of a wide variety of organic tea products across these supermarkets and hypermarkets drive the segment growth. As of January 2022 , there were more than 63,419 supermarket stores in the US. Retail chains help in increasing the product visibility of these organic tea products, which will increase the sales of these products and thereby fuel the growth of this market. Hence, such factors drive the growth of the offline segment of the organic tea market during the forecast period. Geography APAC will contribute 60% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Factors like the growing consumer awareness of health and wellness are among the top contributors to the growth of the regional market growth. Furthermore, factors like the several advantages and health benefits offered by organic tea due to its natural components and antioxidants are expected to fuel the demand for organic tea in the region. For instance, in India , Darjeeling and Assan are two of the main regions that are the leading producers of organic tea. Hence, such factors fuel the growth of the organic tea market in APAC during the forecast period. , Darjeeling and Assan are two of the main regions that are the leading producers of organic tea. Hence, such factors fuel the growth of the organic tea market in APAC during the forecast period. Other regions include Europe, North America , South America , and Middle East and Africa . Learn about the contribution of each segment summarized in concise infographics and thorough descriptions. View a Free PDF Sample Report Organic Tea Market 2023-2027: Key Highlights Historic Market Size 2017-2021 CAGR of the market during 2023-2027 Detailed information on factors that will assist organic tea market growth during the next five years Estimation of the organic tea market size and its contribution to the parent market Forecasts on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior The growth of the organic tea market Analysis of the competitive landscape and detailed information on companies Comprehensive details of factors that will impede the growth of organic tea market companies Related Reports: The Tea Market size is projected to increase by USD 20.50 billion and the market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.55% between 2022 and 2027. The Ready-To-Drink Coffee market size is projected to increase by USD 11,781.01 million and the market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.73% between 2022 and 2027. Organic Tea Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2022 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 8.62% Market growth 2023-2027 USD 552.51 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 8.44 Regional analysis APAC, Europe, North America, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution APAC at 60% Key countries US, China, India, Germany, and UK Competitive landscape Leading Vendors, Market Positioning of Vendors, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled Arbor Teas, Big Heart Tea Co., Bigelow Tea, Cup of Te, Davidsons Organics, Divinitea, East West Tea Company LLC, ECOTONE, Halssen and Lyon GmbH, Harney and Sons Fine Teas, Numi Inc., ORGANIC India Pvt. Ltd., PepsiCo Inc., R. Twining and Co. Ltd., The Coca Cola Co., The Hain Celestial Group Inc., The Republic of Tea Inc., Tielka Pty Ltd , Unilever PLC, and Tata Sons Pvt. Ltd. Market dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, Market condition analysis for forecast period. Customization purview If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized. ToC: Executive Summary Market Landscape Market Sizing Historic Market Sizes Five Forces Analysis Market Segmentation by Distribution Channel 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 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 Agreement further strengthens presence and capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region COMMERCE, Calif., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- FDH Aero ("FDH"), a global provider of supply chain solutions for the aerospace and defense industry, announced today a new consignment agreement between FDH Aero brand PDQ Airspares and Garuda Maintenance Facility (GMF) AeroAsia, one of the largest aircraft maintenance repair and overhaul companies serving the Asia-Pacific region. A commemoration signing ceremony took place during Aviation Week's annual MRO Asia-Pacific conference in Singapore on Thursday, Sept. 28. Representatives from both PDQ Airspares, an FDH company, and GMF AeroAsia participated in the ceremony. "Today's announcement highlights the continuing investments we're making to simplify the supply chain for our aerospace and defense customers," PDQ Airspares Managing Director Paul Rice said. "Together with GMF, the partnership provides a platform to support our continued growth throughout the Asia-Pacific region, which has the largest aviation market growth potential in the world. It's a win-win." The new deal solidifies PDQ Airspares as a premier provider of maintenance and repair consumables to GMF. Under the consignment agreement, PDQ places an agreed amount of inventory in GMF's warehouse and allows them to consume directly from the stock. Consignment customers then purchase the inventory only after they have consumed it. Consignment benefits include reduced freight costs, reduced costs associated with paying multiple suppliers, and the peace of mind of having stock on hand at all times. "This agreement is a prime example of our commitment to the growth and success of our partners," Rice added. "We've found the consignment model provides real benefits to our customers' business, and we believe it will help ensure GMF continues to be a leading service provider to airlines operating across Asia-Pacific." With a focus on white-glove customer experience and partnership agreements with the industry's trusted component brands, FDH Aero has become a leading supply chain solutions partner. The company delivers a full range of hardware, electrical, chemical and consumable products and value-add services to the world's aerospace and defense customers. Based in Tangerang, Indonesia, GMF AeroAsia employs more than 4,000 people in offices around the world and continues to increase its presence as a key player in the global aviation industry ecosystem. About PDQ Airspares PDQ Airspares is a top-tier distributor of aerospace consumables and provider of supply chain management services to the airline and MRO industry. With more than 30 years' experience, PDQ understands and effectively targets the individual demands of each customer's operational requirements with solutions that generate savings in both time and money. About FDH Aero FDH Aero is a trusted global supply chain partner for aerospace and defense companies. With more than 55 years of experience, it specializes in c-class components that include hardware, electrical, chemical, and consumable products and services for global OEM and aftermarket customers. FDH is headquartered in Commerce, California, and has operations across the Americas, EMEA and APAC. FDH Aero has locations in 14 countries across the globe, with more than 1,200 best-in-industry employees and over 650,000 square feet of inventory space. For more information, please visit the FDH Aero website. Contact Heather Rosenow Vice President, Global Marketing & Communications [email protected] Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2234039/FDH_Aero_logo.jpg SOURCE FDH Aero NEW YORK, Sept. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The pipelay vessel operator market is expected to grow by USD 57.18 million from 2022 to 2027. However, the growth momentum of the market will progress at a CAGR of 3.85% during the forecast period. The market is segmented by application (oil and gas, power, and others), type (J-lay barges, S-lay barges, and reel barges), and geography (APAC, Europe, North America, Middle East and Africa, and South America). The increasing demand for oil and gas drives the market growth during the forecast period. It is expected that there will be an increase in fuel consumption in India by 0.3 million barrels per day between 2023 and 2024. Therefore, it will fuel the demand for petroleum products, mainly in developing countries such as China, India, and Indonesia. In addition, the growing use of natural gas for electricity generation and urban gas distribution around the globe is significantly contributing to the market growth. Hence, it will fuel the investment in the pipe-laying vessel operator market. Furthermore, there is an increase in production output by oil producers, especially OPEC nations and the US by venturing to drill new wells to meet rising fuel demand. Hence, such factors are expected to drive market growth during the forecast period. The report analyses the market size and growth and provides accurate predictions on the growth of the market. View a Free PDF Sample Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Pipelay Vessel Operator Market 2023-2027 Key Highlights: The report recognizes the following as some of the key players in the pipelay vessel operator market: Allseas Group SA, Boskalis, BOURBON Maritime, CIMIC Group Ltd., Hanwha Corp., Havila Shipping ASA, Helix Energy Solutions Group Inc., John Swire and Sons Ltd., McDermott International Ltd., New DOF ASA, Royal IHC, Saipem S.p.A., Siem Offshore Inc., Subsea 7 SA, TechnipFMC plc, Tidewater Holdings Inc., Uppetrom 1 Mai Manufacturing SRL, Van Oord nv, and Hyundai Heavy Industries Group and Sons Ltd., McDermott International Ltd., New DOF ASA, Royal IHC, Saipem S.p.A., Siem Offshore Inc., Subsea 7 SA, TechnipFMC plc, Tidewater Holdings Inc., Uppetrom 1 Mai Manufacturing SRL, nv, and Hyundai Heavy Industries Group The Pipelay Vessel Operator Market is fragmented in nature. Market to observe 3.25% YOY growth in 2023. Market Dynamics: Trend Technological innovations boosting productivity in oilfield services is a primary trend in the pipelay vessel operator during the forecast period. There is an increasing focus on new technological innovations and technical breakthroughs by Pipelay operators in order to boost productivity and profitability. Some of the methods by which Pipelay operators increase productivity include automating piping processes and equipment and investing in powerful tools and systems. Furthermore, there is a rise in investment by companies in high-speed precision drilling capabilities such as laser drilling and automatic drilling. Hence, such factors are positively impacting the market which in turn will drive the market growth during the forecast period. Challenges The high cost associated with the maintenance of pipeline and transportation infrastructure is the challenge that affects the growth of the market. While the long-term benefits of proper maintenance outweigh the costs, end users are reluctant to deploy preventive maintenance solutions due to their high costs. Some of the automation processes also require significant time, causing activities to be on halt, thus resulting in a lack of interest in end-consumers. Because the oil and gas industry is capital-intensive, companies often prefer to deploy new solutions only in the event of a major breakdown, which can lead to significant downtime. Although maintenance of oil and gas pipelines and transportation poses a challenge due to cost and interoperability issues, market growth is also hampered by a lack of effective skillsets needed to handle new and upgraded technologies. These factors reduce the business opportunities for pipelay operators, which impedes the growth of the market during the forecast period. The report also covers information on upcoming trends and challenges. Explore detailed information by purchasing a report Key Segments: The market share growth by the oil and gas segment will be significant during the forecast period. Pipelay vessel operators play an important role in the offshore oil and gas industry, where they are responsible for the installation of underwater pipelines to transport extracted hydrocarbons from offshore production facilities to onshore processing machines on land or transport hubs. The oil and gas segment shows a gradual increase in the market share of USD 153.93 million in 2017 and continue to grow by 2021. These pipelines serve as the lifeline of the energy industry, facilitating the efficient and safe transport of crude oil and natural gas from the seabed to onshore facilities for refining, processing, and distribution. In addition to the installation of new pipelines, these operators are also involved in maintenance and repair operations, inspection, and repair of existing pipelines to ensure continuous and reliable power transmission. As a result, increasing activity in the oil and gas industries globally will drive the growth of the oil and gas segment of the global pipelay vessel operator market during the forecast period. Get a glance at the market contribution of the segments, Request a Free Sample Related Reports: The marine loading arms market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 81.17 million. The naval vessels market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 13.5% between 2022 and 2027 and the size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 82.64 billion. Pipelay Vessel Operator Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2022 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 3.85% Market growth 2023-2027 USD 57.18 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 3.25 Regional analysis Europe, APAC, North America, Middle East and Africa, and South America Performing market contribution APAC at 51% Key countries US, Saudi Arabia, China, India, and UK Competitive landscape Leading Companies, Market Positioning of Companies, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled Allseas Group SA, Boskalis, BOURBON Maritime, CIMIC Group Ltd., Hanwha Corp., Havila Shipping ASA, Helix Energy Solutions Group Inc., John Swire and Sons Ltd., McDermott International Ltd., New DOF ASA, Royal IHC, Saipem S.p.A., Siem Offshore Inc., Subsea 7 SA, TechnipFMC plc, Tidewater Holdings Inc., Uppetrom 1 Mai Manufacturing SRL, Van Oord nv, and Hyundai Heavy Industries Group 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 Application 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 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 Team members dedicated more than 400 volunteer hours to national partner Boys & Girls Clubs of America as well as other non-profits HAMPTON, N.H., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Planet Fitness, one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of fitness centers with more members than any other fitness brand, is continuing to enhance people's lives and create a healthier world by hosting a company-wide 'Flexing for Good' volunteer initiative for its corporate team members. Throughout the month of September, Planet Fitness corporate team members in multiple states volunteered at neighboring nonprofit organizations, dedicating more than 400 hours of service. Benefitting organizations included Planet Fitness' national nonprofit partner, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA), as well as other nonprofits such as the Blue Ocean Society in New Hampshire, Boston Children's Hospital, Lydia's House of Hope in New Hampshire, and Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. Planet Fitness' World Headquarters has offices in New Hampshire and Florida. All Planet Fitness World Headquarters team members are given two paid days annually for volunteer work. Planet Fitness corporate team members volunteering as part of its month long volunteer program 'Flexing for Good' Planet Fitness corporate team members volunteering as part of its month long volunteer program 'Flexing for Good' "Planet Fitness is always looking for ways to expand our impact beyond our four walls and into the communities we serve, and our 'Flexing for Good' volunteer initiative for our corporate team members does just that," said McCall Gosselin, Senior Vice President of Communications & Social Impact at Planet Fitness. "By giving team members opportunities to volunteer during the month of September, we were able to reach even more communities, with a large focus on organizations in the New Hampshire, Boston, and Central Florida areas given the proximity to our offices." As part of this year's 'Flexing for Good' volunteer initiative, Planet Fitness' corporate team members worked hand-in-hand with the following nonprofit partners: American Heart Association Taught team members lifesaving bystander skills including hands-only CPR and operating AED Taught team members lifesaving bystander skills including hands-only CPR and operating AED Boys & Girls Clubs of Dorchester, Mass. Provided 100 kids with a positive fitness experience through "Record Day," where kids won prizes for their high scores, gained confidence and had fun with their peers Provided 100 kids with a positive fitness experience through "Record Day," where kids won prizes for their high scores, gained confidence and had fun with their peers Boys & Girls Clubs of Manchester, N.H. Filled 50 backpacks with supplies for youth members heading back to school and revitalized the organization's summer camp with a freshly stained boathouse, performing arts center and walkways Filled 50 backpacks with supplies for youth members heading back to school and revitalized the organization's summer camp with a freshly stained boathouse, performing arts center and walkways Blue Ocean Society for Marine Conservation Collected 19 pounds of trash on Hampton Beach in New Hampshire Collected 19 pounds of trash on in Boston Children's Hospital Filled 85 activity bags with toys, books, coloring books and other comforting items for children of families staying in the Hale Family Center Filled 85 activity bags with toys, books, coloring books and other comforting items for children of families staying in the Hale Family Center Give Kids the World Served breakfast at Give Kids the World Village in Florida , which provides free, week-long vacations for children who have critical illnesses and their families Served breakfast at Give Kids the World Village in , which provides free, week-long vacations for children who have critical illnesses and their families Lydia's House of Hope Assisted with maintenance projects such as lawn care, plantings, home repairs and painting in addition to donating fitness equipment such as weights, exercise balls, yoga mats and a TV Assisted with maintenance projects such as lawn care, plantings, home repairs and painting in addition to donating fitness equipment such as weights, exercise balls, yoga mats and a TV New Hampshire Food Bank Sorted more than 4,000 pounds of frozen food and assisted with meal preparation Sorted more than 4,000 pounds of frozen food and assisted with meal preparation Ronald McDonald House Charities ( Florida ) Packed kits with necessities for people who stay at the home Packed kits with necessities for people who stay at the home St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Created more than 100 virtual cards for patients Created more than 100 virtual cards for patients Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida Sorted donations for families in need As part of the Company's larger give back efforts, Planet Fitness is proud to partner with Boys & Girls Clubs of America as part of the brand's national philanthropic initiative, the Judgement Free Generation, which aims to prevent bullying and promote kindness. Since 2016, together with its franchisees, members and partners, Planet Fitness has contributed more than $8.4 million to support anti-bullying, pro-kindness initiatives. For more information about Planet Fitness' purpose-driven efforts and the Judgement Free Generation, visit planetfitness.com/pf-purpose. About Planet Fitness Founded in 1992 in Dover, NH, Planet Fitness is one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of fitness centers in the world by number of members and locations. As of June 30, 2023, Planet Fitness had more than 18.4 million members and 2,472 stores in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Canada, Panama, Mexico and Australia. The Company's mission is to enhance people's lives by providing a high-quality fitness experience in a welcoming, non-intimidating environment, which we call the Judgement Free Zone. More than 90% of Planet Fitness stores are owned and operated by independent business men and women. SOURCE Planet Fitness, Inc. As the Senate marches ahead with a bipartisan approach to prevent a government shutdown, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is back to square one asking his hard-right Republicans to do what they have said they would never do: approve their own temporary House measure to keep the government open. The Republican speaker laid out his strategy Wednesday behind closed doors, urging his unruly Republican majority to work together. He set up a test vote Friday, one day before Saturdays shutdown deadline, on a far-right bill. It would slash federal spending by 8% from many agencies and toughen border security but has been rejected by President Joe Biden, Democrats and his own right-flank Republicans. I want to solve the problem, McCarthy told reporters afterward at the Capitol. But pressed on how he would pass a partisan Republican spending plan that even his own right flank doesnt want, McCarthy had few answers. He rejected outright the Senates bipartisan bill, which would fund the government to Nov. 17, adding $6 billion for Ukraine and $6 billion for U.S. disaster relief while talks continue. Instead, he insisted, as he often does, that he would never quit trying. Congress is at a crossroads days before a disruptive federal shutdown that would halt paychecks for millions of federal workers and the military, close down many federal offices, and leave Americans who rely on the government in ways large and small in the lurch. As the Senate pushes ahead in bipartisan fashion, McCarthy is demanding that Biden meet to discuss border security measures. But the beleaguered speaker has little leverage left with the White House without the power of his House majority behind him, and after he walked away from the debt deal he and Biden reached earlier this year that is now law. On the other side of the Capitol, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer opened the chamber, warning of the right-wing extremes that seem to exult in shutting down government. Schumer said: A reckless shutdown will serve no purpose. The Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell was in rare agreement with the Democratic leader, urging his House colleagues to consider the Senates stopgap approach that keeps funding at current levels, along with bolstered money for Ukraine and U.S. disaster relief, and move off the shutdown strategy. We can take the standard approach and fund the government for six weeks at the current rate of operations, or we can shut the government down in exchange for zero meaningful progress on policy, McConnell said. McConnell said he, too, would like to do something about the Democrats reckless spending and boost border security. But these important discussions cannot progress if the functions of government end up being taken hostage. With the Senate expected to spend the rest of this week working to pass its bill over the objections of Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., and others on the right flank who want to halt aid to Ukraine and push for steeper spending cuts, all action in Congress is crushing toward a last minute deadline. The federal government would begin to shut down if funding is not secured by Sunday, Oct. 1, which is the start of the new fiscal year. While the White House has said its up to McCarthy and the House Republicans to fix the problem they have created, Bidens chief rival in the 2024 election, Donald Trump, is urging the right flank to fight for steep spending cuts. If Republicans dont get what they want, Trump the former president says, they should shut it down. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Prompt AI, a startup harnessing the power of large language models to democratize access to computer vision, raised $5 million in seed funding, led by prominent investors AIX Ventures and Abstract Ventures. The funding round also saw participation from several renowned angel investors. Prompt AI is increasing access to computer vision technology by empowering individuals and organizations to harness the potential of large language models. Until now, visual AI has been dominated by researchers at elite universities and large corporations, limiting its accessibility to the general public. Prompt AI seeks to put an end to this disparity and open up the world of visual AI to anyone with a camera and a question to answer. "People are not getting the most out of their photos and videos. We want to bring AI tools out of the university and into the hands of the public. Our vision is to unlock the potential of computer vision for everyone, and this funding will be instrumental in achieving that goal," said Tete Xiao, CEO and Co-Founder of Prompt AI. "Prompt coaxes out deeper meaning from your visual data, helping you get deep, immediate info from the world around you. Prompt will be your new photo whisperer." Prompt AI's platform can empower a broad range of users to gain actionable knowledge from the vast mountains of images and videos they encounter daily. Individuals with home security cameras can easily build a personalized system to receive real-time alerts, such as wildlife appearances, package deliveries or guest arrivals. The platform enables users to ask questions about these occurrences, transforming visual data into valuable insights. For enterprises and governmental organizations with vast amounts of satellite images, Prompt AI's platform allows them to create a searchable database. Natural language queries, such as "What homes were affected by the flood?" or "How many ships are located near the West coast of the United States?" can now be answered swiftly and accurately. Among the company's co-founders are Xiao and Trevor Darrell, who holds the position of President. Xiao holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science from UC Berkeley. His extensive research background spans computer vision, robotics and machine learning, including notable work on the Segment Anything Model in collaboration with Facebook AI Research (FAIR). Darrell serves on the faculty of the Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences Department at UC Berkeley. As the founder and co-leader of Berkeley Artificial Intelligence Research (BAIR) lab, he has contributed significantly to advancing the frontiers of computer vision and is a pioneer in the field of AI research. He has also played an integral role in various AI initiatives in collaboration with industry giants like Facebook, Google, Microsoft, and Amazon. Darrell also played a critical role in the development of the Caffe deep learning library at UC Berkeley, one of the world's first deep-learning frameworks. "Prompt AI's platform will empower individuals and organizations to leverage their photos in new ways that they have never considered. By 2030, it's expected that more than two trillion images will be taken each year. New tools are needed to help make sense of all this data." AIX Ventures Investment Partner Pieter Abbeel said. "An AI revolution is coming for visual data like the one that just occurred for language, and Prompt AI is going to be a key player." About Prompt AI: Prompt AI is a pioneering AI startup that aims to democratize access to computer vision technology. Its platform allows users to turn visual data into a searchable database, empowering them to prototype visual AI solutions and share their workflows with the wider community. The company's mission is to revolutionize the perception of visual data, enabling individuals and organizations to transform it into actionable knowledge. Learn more at promptai.co. SOURCE Prompt AI Trip101 expects an 84% jump in vacation rentals bookings in Asia from 2022 to 2023. Longer stays by travelers in Asia are also confirmed. Average length of stay has grown by 20% since pre-pandemic times. SINGAPORE, Sept. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Global travel media startup Trip101, which curates and recommends the world's best vacation rentals and hotels, reports that its last 4 years' booking numbers suggest the popularity of vacation rentals among travelers visiting Asian countries is predicted to increase in the foreseeable future, with an 84% jump in 2023 from 2022. In line with travelers' preferences, Asia, along with the US, also showcased a growing trend for the average number of nights booked by guests on vacation rentals. The numbers increased 20% by 0.5, from about 2.5 nights to 3. Trip101: Average number of nights booked Source: Trip101 data (vacation rental bookings generated through Trip101 website) Following US and Europe's footsteps, the average booking value in Asia saw a 20% increase as well, from pre- to post-pandemic years. This trend looks promising as it implies people are willing to spend more for longer stays and enhanced experiences. The pandemic catalyzed a significant shift in lifestyle and travel preferences by enabling remote work. People now have the freedom to work from anywhere, empowering them to embrace a more flexible travel style, combining work with leisure and exploring new destinations while maintaining professional commitments, and thus giving rise to new travel trends like workation, leisure travels and digital nomadism. About Trip101 Trip101 is a one-stop guide for the modern-day traveler that has been growing rapidly since its establishment in 2015. Spanning across 7 continents and more than 200 countries, all travel recommendations are based on the authentic experiences of travel experts. Supported by an ever-growing community of travel writers, Trip101 caters to the dynamic needs of young and modern travelers featuring unique and alternative accommodations, local experiences, destination guides, and travel tips. From choosing the best Airbnbs and vacation rentals to booking the lesser-known local tours and activities, Trip101 is relevant for all stages of travel. Be it pre-trip, in-destination, or post-trip, there's something useful for everyone. Trip101 is a part of Venture Republic Group, which also owns TRAVEL.jp , the largest travel metasearch and media in Japan. For more information on Trip101, contact [email protected] Visit us on website: https://trip101.com/ Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @trip101com Media contact: Contact Person: Trip101 PR Phone Number: +65 6871 4101 Email: [email protected] SOURCE Trip101 Pte Ltd SAN RAMON, Calif., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Lumin Digital announced today that Santa Rosa-based Redwood Credit Union (Redwood) has signed a multi-year agreement for Lumin Digital's cloud-native platform for online and mobile digital banking solutions. When Redwood completes the rollout of its new platform in Q4 of 2023, Lumin Digital will support Redwood's more than 455,000 members. Founded in 1950, Redwood Credit Union has been helping people reach their financial goals and dreams for more than seven decades. Based on total assets of more than $8 billion Redwood is one of the 50 largest credit unions in the United States, but it remains focused on providing a personalized experience to each of its members during every meeting and transaction. Staying committed to the credit union industry philosophy of "people helping people," Redwood is focused on providing its members with exemplary service and offering the same financial products and services as banks, but at a much greater value. "Our members are at the core of everything we do, and we're committed to making every aspect of their banking experience simple, convenient, and secure," said Tony Hildesheim, chief operating officer of Redwood Credit Union. "Partnering with Lumin Digital allows us to provide an integrated online experience with personalized tools and robust security features to meet and exceed the needs of our members who place their trust in us every day." Lumin Digital, a cloud-native digital banking platform, elevates credit union member experiences to match larger financial institutions. With a focus on service, user experience, safety, and security through advanced automation, Lumin Digital enhances engagement by offering personalized recommendations in spending insights, financial advice, fraud alerts, and savings goals. Lumin enables credit unions and banks to provide real-time updates and value-added features, supported by a dedicated team of industry experts, designers, and developers. "Redwood is one of the leaders of the credit union movement today," said Jeff Chambers, founder and CEO of Lumin Digital. "As new digital tools become even more critical in today's disruptive financial services sector, we are proud to help Redwood build and deliver a new effortless digital experience that will help them attract and serve a new generation of members and users. We are excited to get started on this new journey together." Lumin Digital continues to drive innovation in the digital banking space, differentiating itself through technology built for human connection. The company's offering provides seamless integration to a wide array of PSCU and other platform tools and capabilities, including card services, rewards management, and data analytics to provide a member-centric experience. For more information, visit lumindigital.com. About Redwood Credit Union Founded in 1950, Redwood Credit Union is a full-service financial institution providing personal and business banking to consumers and businesses in the North Bay and San Francisco. With a mission to passionately serve the best interests of its members, team members, and communities, RCU delivers many ways for its members to save and build money through checking and savings accounts, auto and home loans, credit cards, digital banking, business services, commercial and SBA lending, and more. Wealth management and investment services are available through CUSO Financial Services L.P., and insurance and auto-purchasing services are also offered through RCU Services Group (RCU's wholly owned subsidiary). RCU has more than $8 billion in assets and serves more than 445,000 members with full-service branches from San Francisco to Ukiah. For more information visit redwoodcu.org. About Lumin Digital Lumin Digital is a fintech company specializing in digital banking solutions. Through a fundamentally different approach to technology, service, and people, the company provides financial institutions with a best-in-class, cloud-native platform that drives consumer adoption, engagement, and growth. For more information, visit lumindigital.com. SOURCE Lumin Digital AURORA, Ill., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Revv Aviation, based in Aurora, IL, is pleased to announce the appointment of Jayson Scott Wilson as President, starting October 2nd, 2023. Wilson joins Revv from Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines of Boulder City, Nevada, where he was Chief Operating Officer and Chief Commercial Officer. Revv's distinctive planes are appearing at more and more FBOs as the company expands its reach to smaller towns across the American Heartland. Wilson joins Revv Aviation as President. "It has been an honor and pleasure to help develop Revv Aviation over the past 3 years from a small business at two locations to the current thirteen locations" said Guy Lieser, Revv's founding President. "I am very happy that Jayson is joining the company and will champion our next chapter of growth." Guy Lieser will stay with Revv in the role of VP Business Development and Aircraft Sales. Peter Limberger, Co-Founder and Chairman of CL Enterprises, the parent company of Revv Aviation, explained, "Revv is now almost four years old and has rapidly grown to thirteen locations, with many more on the horizon. As we have grown, so too have our infrastructure needs, and this is the right time to add additional talent to help us manage the next phase of our growth. Guy has done a fantastic job establishing Revv in the market, and we're delighted that he will be staying with the company in this new role. We are fortunate to have someone with Guy's knowledge and experience to focus on identifying and developing new growth opportunities into the future. He will also provide invaluable support to Jayson as he transitions into the role." Revv Aviation aims to deliver the full suite of aviation services in all its locations; charter, pilot training, maintenance, FBO services, and avionics - summed up by its tagline, aviation from the ground up. Now with locations as far afield as Tuscaloosa, AL., Huron, SD., Omaha, NE., and Aurora, IL, the business has grown rapidly in all segments. Hinesh Patel, CEO of CL Enterprises, described how Wilson's experience is a great fit for Revv Aviation. "By its nature, Revv is a complex business with multiple services offered in many geographical locations. We are creating something new in aviation, by combining the skills and experience from a multitude of smaller legacy aviation companies under the Revv brand. As we continue to grow, it will be important to have in place a strong operational foundation so that our customers and our employees continue to see the benefits that Revv provides. Jayson brings robust operational experience from many prior roles, from his recent success as COO at Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines, and Rampart Aviation before that. He's a strong leader and we're confident he will guide Revv through the next chapter of the business." Wilson spoke about what attracted him to the Revv opportunity: "I love the vision that Peter and Inga have for this business, and their belief that aviation can be a force for good in smaller towns across the country. My dad was an aviator and I grew up on an FBO, so I totally share that passion! It's also exciting to have the opportunity to help shape a company that's creating something new and different in the aviation sector. Over the years, in business and with the military, I have had the good fortune to work in almost every aspect of the aviation industry. The opportunity to lead Revv, with its full suite of services, its small-town focus, and its entrepreneurial vision, felt like the perfect opportunity for me to draw on all those different experiences. It's also great to be joining the CLE family, and to know that I have the support of world-class operators like Hinesh to draw on. I am excited to get started!" Revv Aviation is part of CL Enterprises, the parent company for the Carus Limberger family. Based in Peru, IL, CL Enterprises believes in the potential of smaller towns across the Midwest and beyond in the US. CL Enterprises makes strategic long-term investments in agriculture, real estate, manufacturing, hospitality and aviation, all of which help smaller towns become more attractive for people to build their careers and raise families. SOURCE Revv Aviation CEO & CRO Discussed How Tech Innovations are Dramatically Improving Quality, Safety, Transparency, Accuracy, Efficiency, & More SALT LAKE CITY, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- RizePoint, a global leader in quality management software solutions, recently had a significant presence at two prestigious industry events, the North American Executive Supply Chain Summit and North American Food Safety & Quality Conference, where their leadership team discussed the importance of using the latest technologies to improve safety and quality programs. At the North American Executive Supply Chain Summit (NASCES), held September 11-13 in Phoenix, AZ, Paul Damaren, Chief Revenue Officer at RizePoint, chaired and presented at 10 different sessions, including Revolutionizing the Supply Chain: Accelerating the Manufacturing Process Through Development and Innovation, Building a Risk Averse Supply Chain and Sustainability Matters: Strategies and Impact in the Value Chain. He emphasized how tech innovations are significantly elevating quality programs, maximizing safety, boosting compliance, and reducing risks for brands of all sizes and budgets. At the North American Food Safety & Quality Conference (NAFS), held September 25-27 in Chicago, IL, Damaren chaired an important panel and presented on the topic of the "Top 5 Tech Trends in 2023 and Beyond and Their Impact on the Food Industry," alongside Kari Hensien, RizePoint's CEO, the VP of Food Safety and Quality Assurance of The HomeChef/Kroger, the VP of Quality Assurance of The Wendy's Company, and the Senior Director, Quality and Food Safety for Thrive Market. This panel explored how the top tech trends including AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), machine learning, and more are driving dramatic improvements in quality, safety, consistency, compliance, efficiency, transparency, and accuracy, while also improving the customer experience. "Two overarching themes dominated discussions among some of the world's largest organizations at these conferences: the growing importance of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) as an innovative force poised to reshape daily business operations and integrate into supply chain solutions," said Paul Damaren, Chief Revenue Officer of RizePoint. "Secondly, there was a huge, focused commitment on sustainability, specifically ESG. Sustainability is clearly a pressing priority as companies work diligently to chart a path towards greener operations." "It was absolutely a pleasure to present at these important conferences. We were also there to listen and learn from other industry experts and thought leaders at the forefront of the food and quality sector. It's exciting and invigorating to be around the best and brightest minds in the industry, exchanging ideas, discussing trends and emerging technologies, hearing about the issues people are facing, and talking about the most cutting-edge ways to solve these pressing challenges," Damaren explained. "We leave these conferences just buzzing with ideas and thinking of cool new solutions we can develop to cure customers' pain points and make our software even more valuable." About RizePoint For over 25 years, RizePoint has offered quality management software solutions that help companies keep brand promises through their quality, safety, and compliance efforts. Customers gather better data, see necessary actions earlier, and act faster to correct issues before they become costly liabilities. RizePoint works with the most prestigious brands in the world, including Starbucks, McDonald's, and Hard Rock International, supporting them on a variety of safety and compliance activities. Visit rizepoint.com. Contact: Adrienne Walkowiak RizePoint [email protected] 603/659-9345 SOURCE RIZEPOINT SPARTA, Ga., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Sandersville Railroad Company has announced Southern Chips LLC as an additional user of its planned rail spur in Hancock County. Southern Chips will use the spur to transport pulp and paper-quality wood chips to mills throughout the southeastern United States and beyond. The Hanson Spur will allow Southern Chips to ship its product more cost-effectively through access to the CSX Transportation (CSXT) network, providing its locally sourced timber and wood products to more customers in the region. Through using the spur, Southern Chips will have the ability to expand its existing support of loggers and timber companies in middle and southeastern Georgia. "Sandersville Railroad is thrilled to announce this partnership with Southern Chips," says Sandersville Railroad President Ben J. Tarbutton, III. "With access to the CSXT via the Hanson Spur, Southern Chips will be able to reach new markets, increasing their demand for pine and hardwood supplied by Georgia's robust logging supply chain network and locally owned timberland." The 4.5-mile-long spur will connect the CSXT rail line that runs along Ga. Highway 16 in Hancock County to the Heidelberg Materials aggregate quarry in Sparta, Ga. The spur is projected to greatly benefit the Hancock County community, generating over $1.5 million in annual economic benefit and creating jobs for the county. "Using the Hanson Spur is an obvious choice for Southern Chips to expand our market reach," said Jeffrey Custer, Wood Procurement and Fiber Sales Manager at Southern Chips LLC. "We are grateful for our partnership with the Sandersville Railroad Company and look forward to working together for many years to come." The Sandersville Railroad Company has taken numerous steps to ensure the safety and well-being of both the environment and the community with the creation of the Hanson Spur. The route complies with the highest railroad design standards while minimizing any impact on sensitive environmental areas and taking measures to ease any disruption to the everyday lives of local residents. The Hanson Spur will be Sandersville Railroad's first expansion in Hancock County. In addition to the economic growth brought by the spur, Sandersville Railroad anticipates supporting Hancock County's local initiatives. Southern Chips LLC joins Veal Farms Transload LLC, Revive Milling, LLC, Pittman Construction and Heidelberg Materials as confirmed users of the spur line. Sandersville Railroad plans to have the Hanson Spur fully operational by the end of 2024. About Southern Chips, LLC Southern Chips, LLC has been in operation since 2018 and provides quality hardwood and pine wood chips to pulp and paper mills. Our chip mill specializes in rail-delivered chips to any location with rail service in the continental United States. Since the company's founding, we have aggressively upgraded the chip mill through capital expenditures to increase rail payloads, overall mill dependability, pulpwood storage capacity and chip quality. For more information, please visit: https://www.southern-chips.com/#top About the Sandersville Railroad Company The Sandersville Railroad Company is a privately held shortline railroad in Sandersville, Georgia. Established in 1893, the railroad has a long history of providing excellent freight service to Washington County. The 130-year-old company maintains ten miles of mainline track and five miles of branch lines as well as five locomotive engines and more than 400 railcars that service key industries in Middle Georgia. Sandersville Railroad is the single largest kaolin rail originator in the world. For more information, please visit: https://www.sandersvillerailroad.com/ SOURCE Sandersville Railroad The Most Clinically Validated Breast AI Featured in 4 Significant Peer-Reviewed Studies in Past 6 Months, Better Workflow to Increase Screening Capacity for Radiologists and for Women. VALENCIA, Spain, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ScreenPoint Medical is showcasing global momentum for Transpara, the world's leading Breast artificial intelligence (AI) software, here at the European Society of Breast Imaging (EUSOBI) Annual Scientific Meeting, September 28-30, 2023 (Booth M02). The clinical and operational value of Transpara on improving the mammography screening process has been documented in several top-tier peer-reviewed publications in the past few months, including the Lancet Oncology, Journal of Clinical Oncology and European Radiology. Users across Europe trust Transpara, and some are even using it to create capacity as a second reader for lower risk women Headlining the publications are preliminary results from the first randomized controlled trial in Breast AI: the Mammography Screening with AI (MASAI) Study published this summer in Lancet Oncology. This study investigated use of AI in breast cancer screening to triage 90% of cases to single reading and the results were striking - Transpara-assisted workflow boosted cancer detection (20%) while safely reducing reading workload by 44% with no change in recall or arbitration rate. Transpara is already being used in regions of three European countries to safely replace the second reader in low-risk screening mammograms to deliver more timely care for women; ongoing investigation continues to affirm the value of Transpara in these settings. MASAI focused on workflow improvements to address a global radiology capacity shortage. As technological advancements offer more ways for radiology to support diagnosis and treatment selection, the work of radiologists is growing in importance. Research using Transpara to improve workflow is not limited to reading volume. Improved breast care for women includes effective risk stratification; two articles studying Transpara and published this year demonstrated that safe and effective risk evaluation may not require a labor-intensive manual data collection process. Earlier this year, researchers from the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN) and University of California, San Francisco confirmed that pairing artificial intelligence (AI) imaging and volumetric breast density algorithms can assist in predicting long-term risk of breast cancer, in particular invasive disease. The study, " Impact of Artificial Intelligence System and Volumetric Density on Risk Prediction of Interval, Screen-Detected, and Advanced Breast Cancer ," was published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. Results showed that the Transpara score improves long-term risk prediction when combined with clinical risk factors including breast density for overall invasive cancers, screen-detected, advanced, and non advanced cancers. Furthermore, the utility of Transpara in effective and efficient screening-program based risk assessment was evaluated and published as "Assessing Breast Cancer Risk by Combining AI for Lesion Detection and Mammographic Texture ." Lauritzen, et al were able to demonstrate that the combination of Transpara-based detection, volumetric density, and a quantitative texture analysis combined to deliver improved risk prediction relative to traditional labor- and data-intensive risk models. Furthermore, further imaging offered for women with the highest Transpara risk DOUBLED the early detection of cancer (finding interval cancer before subsequent visits) relative to traditional models. One of the strongest drivers of risk for women remains breast density. This fact has driven a global push to better characterize and communicate density. Transpara mitigates some of the detection risk associated with density. To recap: in the first quarter of the year, the study, " Artificial intelligence in BreastScreen Norway: a retrospective analysis of a cancer-enriched sample including 1254 breast cancer cases " published in European Radiology, researchers demonstrated the value of Transpara in supporting earlier detection in women with dense breasts, increasing sensitivity from 63% to 81%. The high proportion of cancers with a Transpara score of 10 indicates the promising performance of Transpara, particularly for women with dense breasts. Results on prior mammograms with a Transpara score of 10 illustrate the potential for earlier detection of breast cancers by using AI in screen-reading. "As we reach nearly 5 million mammograms analyzed, we are very proud that Transpara continues to demonstrate value for breast health care providers and women when evaluated rigorously. These studies have validated Transpara's performance in helping radiologists detect cancer earlier and safely reduce workload," said Mark Koeniguer, ScreenPoint Medical CEO. About ScreenPoint Medical ScreenPoint Medical translates cutting edge machine learning research into technology accessible by radiologists to improve screening workflow, decision confidence and breast cancer risk assessment. Transpara is trusted by radiologists globally because it has been developed by experts in machine learning and image analysis and updated with user feedback from world-renowned breast imagers. See all the proof at: https://screenpoint-medical.com/published-evidence/peer-reviewed-publications Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2222821/ScreenPoint_Medical.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1582198/ScreenPoint_Medical_Logo.jpg SOURCE ScreenPoint Medical TULSA, Okla., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Secure Yeti, a leading global cybersecurity firm, proudly announces the appointment of renowned hacker Jayson E. Street as its first Chief Adversarial Officer. In this pivotal role, Street will bring his unparalleled expertise and passion for cybersecurity education to empower organizations to fortify their defenses. Street is a renowned global speaker and trainer whose expertise in the cybersecurity world has earned him numerous accolades. Media outlets have given him numerous monikers, including "notorious hacker" by FOX25 Boston, a "World Class Hacker" by National Geographic's Breakthrough series, and a "paunchy hacker" by Rolling Stone magazine. However, he prefers to be known simply as a "Hacker, Helper, and Human." As Secure Yeti's Chief Adversarial Officer, Street will be a high-level executive responsible for creating, deploying, and managing offensive security strategies and activities for clients. Those activities are centered around simulating cyber threats from potential adversaries, such as criminals or malicious actors. Casey Bourbonnais, Secure Yeti's Chief Executive Officer, states, "Jayson E. Street's addition to our leadership team is a significant milestone in our commitment to raising the bar in cybersecurity education and defense. His ethos, captured in his motto, 'Education. Not Exploitation,' aligns perfectly with our mission to make the world a more secure and safer place." Street's enthusiasm for his new role is echoed in his statement, "I am honored and humbled to be working with Secure Yeti. I've been a friend of the organization for over 10 years and have watched it successfully grow. I am excited to work for a company that can utilize my skills to educate and empower others to bolster their cybersecurity defenses." Street's contributions to the field of cybersecurity are exemplified through his widely acclaimed book series Dissecting the Hack, which is now required reading at five colleges in three countries. He also serves as the DEF CON Groups Global Ambassador and has delivered compelling talks on information security at prestigious events such as DEF CON, DEF CON China, GrrCON, DerbyCon, and numerous other conferences and colleges worldwide. Notably, Street also served as a guest lecturer at the Beijing Institute of Technology for a decade. If you are interested in utilizing Street's talents to "hack" your systems, contact us today. About Secure Yeti: Secure Yeti, a GSA-certified small business, was founded with one simple goal in mindto make the world a more secure and safer place. Committed to this mission, Secure Yeti provides a comprehensive array of cybersecurity services, spanning from rigorous testing and extensive training to reliable managed services. With a focus on excellence and a dedication to safeguarding digital environments, Secure Yeti stands as a trusted partner in fortifying defenses against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. Media Contact: Beth Mayhew 703-731-8678 [email protected] SOURCE Secure Yeti BEIJING, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from chinadaily.com.cn: To attract more expats to Shanghai and help them better integrate into the city, the Shanghai municipal authorities released an international services handbook, providing local policy and service information to expat residents, on Thursday. The launching ceremony of the International Services Shanghai is held in Shanghai on Sept 28, 2023. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn] The handbook, compiled by the Foreign Affairs Office of the Shanghai municipal government in collaboration with the Shanghai People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, provides comprehensive information for both new arrivals and long-time expat residents with information regarding various aspects of their everyday life in Shanghai. The handbook, which is intended to become a pocket guide and "a second passport" for expat residents, is composed of four parts: Shanghai essentials, living in Shanghai, exploring Shanghai, and service directory. The "Living in Shanghai" part introduces information, including important administrative procedures since arrival, useful mobile phone apps, public transportation, housing, education, health care, emergency hotlines, and public holidays. In the "exploring Shanghai" part, it provides information on cultural venues, international exhibitions and events, shopping, landmarks, and local specialties among others. The handbook, which involves views and suggestions from many expat residents, has around 40 illustrations and contains 36 QR codes, which connect users to detailed service information and instructions. Kong Fu'an, director of the Foreign Affairs Office of the Shanghai municipal government and the executive vice-president of the Shanghai People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, said that expats are valued members of the community and they make significant contributions to the city's development. "Together, we aim to build Shanghai into a global hub of talent where people from every corner of the globe can converge and thrive. We'll continue to introduce services and measures to provide thoughtful services so that expats can enjoy pleasant stays and successful careers here," he said. Natacha Tarascon from France, who has lived in Shanghai, where she feels like home, for a decade, said that life in Shanghai as an expat is easy and safe. High-quality education and medical care are also the reasons that the mother of three children chooses to stay in Shanghai. "My kids, who were all born and raised in Shanghai, have been learning Chinese, French and English since they were born. Learning diverse, mixing cultures will surely open their minds," said Tarascon, who founded Doucea, a children's skincare brand in Shanghai in 2019. "I started the brand in the city because Shanghai has always been a city open to new brands and new things, and the Shanghai government is very supportive of startups. Also, we can easily collaborate with high-end suppliers and innovative factories here," she said. SOURCE chinadaily.com.cn Democratic Senator from New Jersey Bob Menendez arrives to the Manhattan federal court in New York, on September 27, 2023. U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez of New Jersey pleaded not guilty on Wednesday to federal charges accusing him of pocketing bribes of cash and gold bars in exchange for wielding his political influence to secretly advance Egyptian interests and do favors for local businessmen. Menendez made his initial court appearance in Manhattans federal court days after prosecutors unsealed an indictment alleging vast corruption by the Democrat, who was forced to step down as chairman of the powerful Senate Foreign Relations Committee after being indicted. A lawyer entered the not guilty plea on his behalf. Menendez was ordered released on a $100,000 bond, and he must surrender any personal passports but will be allowed to keep an official passport that would allow him to travel outside the U.S. for government business. The judge ordered him not to have any contact with his co-defendants except for his wife. He also cant have contact with Senate staffers who know about the facts of the case outside of the presence of lawyers. A defiant Menendez has said allegations that he abused his power to line his pockets are baseless. He has said he is confident he will be exonerated and has no intention of leaving the Senate. Still, calls for Menendez to resign continued to mount on Wednesday, with Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin, the No. 2 Senate Democrat, saying he should step down. More than half of Senate Democrats have now said that Menendez should resign, including fellow New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker, who said the indictment includes shocking allegations of corruption and specific, disturbing details of wrongdoing. Its the second corruption case in a decade against Menendez, whose last trial involving different allegations ended with jurors failing to reach a verdict in 2017. Authorities say they found nearly $500,000 in cash, much of it hidden in clothing and closets, as well as more than $100,000 in gold bars in a search of the New Jersey home Menendez, 69, shares with his wife. Charged alongside Menendez is his wife, Nadine, who prosecutors say played a key role in collecting hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of bribes from three New Jersey businessmen seeking help from the longtime lawmaker. An attorney for Nadine Menendez entered a not guilty plea for her on Wednesday. Prosecutors allege repeated actions by Menendez to benefit the authoritarian government of Egypt. They say Menendez also tried to interfere in criminal investigations involving associates, in one case pushing to install in New Jersey a federal prosecutor who he believed he could influence to derail a case. Two of the businessmen, Jose Uribe and Fred Daibes, also were arraigned and pleaded not guilty. The third, Wael Hana, pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to charges including conspiracy to commit bribery. Hana was arrested at Kennedy Airport on Tuesday after returning voluntarily from Egypt to face the charges, and he was ordered freed pending trial. Menendez, in his first public remarks after last weeks indictment, said on Monday that the cash found in his home was drawn from his personal savings accounts over the years and that he kept it on hand for emergencies. One of the envelopes full of cash found at his home, however, bore Daibes DNA and was marked with the real estate developers return address, according to prosecutors. Prosecutors said Hana promised to put Menendezs wife on his companys payroll in a low- or no-show job in exchange for Menendez using his influential post to facilitate foreign military sales and financing to Egypt. Prosecutors allege Hana also paid $23,000 toward her home mortgage, wrote $30,000 checks to her consulting company, promised her envelopes of cash, sent her exercise equipment and bought some of the gold bars that were found in the couples home. The indictment alleges repeated actions by Menendez to benefit Egypt, despite U.S. government misgivings over the countrys human rights record that in recent years have prompted Congress to attach restrictions on aid. Prosecutors, who detailed meetings and dinners between Menendez and Egyptian officials, say Menendez gave sensitive U.S. government information to Egyptian officials and ghostwrote a letter to fellow senators encouraging them to lift a hold on $300 million in aid to Egypt, one of the top recipients of U.S. military support. Prosecutors have accused Menendez of pressuring a U.S. agricultural official to stop opposing a lucrative deal that gave Hanas company a monopoly over certifying that imported meat met religious standards. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition MILWAUKEE, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ademi LLP is investigating Chico's (NYSE: CHS) for possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law in its transaction with Sycamore. Click here to learn how to join the action https://www.ademilaw.com/case/chicos-fas-inc or call Guri Ademi toll-free at 866-264-3995. There is no cost or obligation to you. In the transaction, Chico's stockholders are expected to receive only $7.60 per share. The transaction agreement unreasonably limits competing transactions for Chico's by imposing a significant penalty if Chico's accepts a competing bid. Chico's insiders will receive substantial benefits as part of change of control arrangements. We are investigating the conduct of Chico's board of directors, and whether they are fulfilling their fiduciary duties to all shareholders. If you own Chico's common stock and wish to obtain additional information, please contact Guri Ademi either at [email protected] or toll-free: 866-264-3995, or https://www.ademilaw.com/case/chicos-fas-inc. We specialize in shareholder litigation involving buyouts, mergers, and individual shareholder rights throughout the country. For more information, please feel free to call us. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. Contacts Ademi LLP Guri Ademi Toll Free: (866) 264-3995 Fax: (414) 482-8001 SOURCE Ademi LLP STOCKHOLM and ATLANTA, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Cloud communications leader Sinch and one of North America's largest and most trusted membership organizations, AAA, are partnering to expand chat capabilities for individuals requesting roadside assistance. These changes will allow those stranded in remote areas to seamlessly connect with AAA for help. Yearly, millions of Americans are at risk of having need of road assistance while not being nearby a cellular network. On Sept. 12, AAA announced that users of the newly announced iPhone 15 lineup, as well as iPhone 14 users can now get access to Roadside Assistance via satellite utilizing AAA services. 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. Sinch, which has been an official Apple Messaging Service Provider since 2018, will serve as the software provider making it seamless for AAA agents to be in near-live contact with motorists and localize them using satellite connection. This new option to contact AAA will relieve millions of Americans a year from fear of needing to have road assistance while not being nearby a cellular network. "We are thrilled to further partner with AAA to leverage our industry-leading customer communication cloud to bring two-way conversational experiences to people precisely when they need it most," said Sinch CEO Laurinda Pang. "We are able to combine our long experience of multi-channel communications, our investments in Conversational AI and our Sinch Engage engagement suite to deliver this much-valued innovation to AAA and the many motorists they excel in servicing." Sinch and AAA have long worked together in initiatives to drive meaningful member experience through mobile messaging. For instance, Sinch has made the AAA's 800-HELP number text-enabled. When a member texts, the response from AAA includes a web link that allows the user to create a request for roadside assistance without having to speak to a AAA agent. "AAA's top priority is taking care of our members when they need us most," said Marshall Doney, president and CEO, AAA. "Sinch has been an excellent partner in furthering that mission and their innovation has allowed us to take our roadside assistance to the next level." Enabling roadside assistance via satellite builds on Sinch's previous experience in delivering robust communications services that meet the highest possible requirements. Last November, T-Mobile partnered with Sinch to launch another important first: NextGen 911 Real-Time Text (RTT). This first-ever NextGen 911 RTT technology is operating at an Emergency Communications Center (ECC) in Hood County, Texas, allowing T-Mobile customers to communicate with 911 through simultaneous conversational text and voice text messages can be sent and read at the same time without the need for teletype (TTY) technology. This is particularly critical for up to 48 million Americans who are Deaf or hard of hearing, as well as those who have speech-related disabilities or are non-native English speakers. RTT also gives public safety centers the ability to make better-informed dispatch decisions during a crisis and shave crucial time off a response. CONTACT: For further information, please contact: Sinch: Marcel Kay Public Relations Director [email protected] Ola Elmeland Investor Relations Director Mobile: +46 721 43 34 59 E-mail: [email protected] SOURCE Sinch AB Benefiting educational pursuits of military and first responder families SALT LAKE CITY, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sinclair Oil (Sinclair), an HF Sinclair (NYSE:DINO) brand, today announced a second-year initiative supporting Folds of Honor, a nonprofit organization that helps provide educational scholarships to the families of fallen and disabled service members and first responders. This October, participating Sinclair-branded retail locations will donate a portion of the proceeds from every gallon of fuel sold. Additionally, Sinclair will donate $3 for every new DINOPAY app account for the first 35,000 users. All DINOPAY users will be given the opportunity to donate their 10 cents per gallon DINOPAY fuel discount to Folds of Honor during the October campaign. After raising more than $900,000 last year, Sinclair Oil aims to raise $1 million dollars over 31 days, with the support of participating Sinclair-branded retail partners and customers. "With each fill-up at participating Sinclair-branded retail locations, you can help provide life-changing scholarship opportunities," said Fergie Theriault, vice president of branded marketing for HF Sinclair. "Through this campaign, we continue to show gratitude by the gallons to the families of service members and first responders." According to available data, several states in which Sinclair-branded retail locations or customers are present, rank among the top 10 states for veteran populations, including Idaho, Nevada, Montana and Wyoming. Funds raised through Fueling Folds of Honor will support veteran and first responder families in the communities surrounding participating Sinclair locations. Customers may also choose to donate to the initiative through online donations promoted on Sinclair Oil's website. For more information about participating locations visit SinclairFuelingFolds.com. For more information about Sinclair Oil and HF Sinclair visit SinclairOil.com. About HF Sinclair Corporation HF Sinclair Corporation (HF Sinclair), headquartered in Dallas, Texas, is an independent energy company that produces and markets high value light products such as gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel, renewable diesel and other specialty products. HF Sinclair owns and operates refineries located in Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Wyoming, Washington and Utah and markets its refined products primarily in the Southwest U.S., the Rocky Mountains extending into the Pacific Northwest, and in other neighboring Plains states. HF Sinclair supplies high-quality fuels to more than 1,500 Sinclair-branded retail locations and licenses the use of the Sinclair brand at more than 300 additional locations throughout the country. In addition, subsidiaries of HF Sinclair produce and market base oils and other specialized lubricants in the U.S., Canada and the Netherlands and export products to more than 80 countries. Through its subsidiaries, HF Sinclair produces renewable diesel at two of its facilities in Wyoming and also at its facility in Artesia, New Mexico. HF Sinclair also owns a 47% limited partner interest and non-economic general partner interest in Holly Energy Partners, L.P., a master limited partnership that provides petroleum product and crude oil transportation, terminalling, storage and throughput services to the petroleum industry, including HF Sinclair subsidiaries. About Sinclair Oil Sinclair Oil, an HF Sinclair brand, is one of the oldest continuous brands in the energy business. Recognized for its iconic dinosaur, Sinclair has more than 1,500 independent branded and licensed stations, featuring DINOCARE TOP TIER gasoline. DINOPAY is an app-based payment system that allows users to pay for fuel and in-store items with their mobile device, track receipts, utilize fuel discounts, and locate the nearest Sinclair location. About Folds of Honor Folds of Honor is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of military members serving in the United States Armed Forces and to first responders who have fallen or been disabled. Our educational scholarships support private school tuition or tutoring in grades K-12, tuition for college, technical or trade school and post-graduate work, including a master's degree, doctorate, or professional program. Funds for a second bachelor's degree or trade/technical program certification are also available. Since its inception in 2007, Folds of Honor has awarded nearly 44,000 scholarships totaling nearly $200 million in all 50 states to military dependents. Among the students served, 41% are minorities. Academic scholarships for first responders' families were added in 2022. It is rated a four-star charity by Charity Navigator and platinum on GuideStar. It was founded by Lt Col Dan Rooney, the only F-16 fighter pilot (with three combat tours in Iraq) and PGA Professional. For more information or to donate in support of a Folds of Honor scholarship visit FoldsofHonor.org. SOURCE Sinclair Oil SINGAPORE, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The judiciaries of Singapore and India have signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) on 7 September 2023 to promote bilateral judicial cooperation. The two MOUs affirm the common cause of promoting access to justice and collaboration in judicial education and research between Singapore and India. The scope of collaboration covers judicial education and training, leveraging technology to enhance access to justice, as well as promoting multilateral fora for judicial engagement. Singapore and India Solidify Bilateral Ties in Judicial Cooperation The signing of the two MOUs at the Supreme Court of Singapore was witnessed by The Honourable the Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon of Singapore and The Honourable Chief Justice Dhananjaya Yashwant Chandrachud of India. The Indian delegation comprising Chief Justice Chandrachud and judges were on an official visit to Singapore for the inaugural Singapore-India Judicial Roundtable, which will be held annually following the signing of the MOUs. These meetings serve as a platform to exchange knowledge, discuss mutual areas of interest, and advance collaboration and cooperation between the two judiciaries. At the opening of the Roundtable on 9 September 2023, Chief Justice Menon said: "In the dynamic and interconnected world in which our courts operate today, we will be confronted with legal issues that will prove to be increasingly difficult; will increasingly transcend jurisdictional boundaries; and may increasingly be shaped by developments that go on in other countries. As we navigate this changing world, platforms that allow us to learn from one another's rich experiences and insights will take on even greater importance and significance; and this Roundtable is well placed to provide an invaluable forum for members of our judiciaries to engage in in-depth discussions on topics of mutual interest." Chief Justice Chandrachud who also spoke at the opening of the Roundtable said: "Beyond the social, economic, and diplomatic ties that bind us, our shared commitment to the rule of law and justice forms the foundation of a strong partnership. In an era of increasing interconnectedness, our judiciaries face evolving challenges. The rapid advancement of technology and the far-reaching influence of the internet have ushered in a new era of complexity that demands our collective attention. It is heartening to see our judiciaries rising to the occasion, not just providing legal direction as we enter a new technological paradigm, but embracing technology to enhance accessibility, transparency, and efficiency within our legal systems." For more information, visit: www.judiciary.gov.sg/news-and-resources/news/news-details/joint-media-release-singapore-and-india-solidify-bilateral-ties-in-judicial-cooperation SOURCE Supreme Court of Singapore SHENZHEN, China, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Slenergy, a leading innovator in the renewable energy industry, is dedicated to fulfilling its social responsibilities through substantial carbon emission reduction initiatives. The company has diligently implemented diverse measures to establish a zero-carbon industrial park and has obtained certification for its Environmental Management System in accordance with the ISO 14001:2015 standard. Solar Stations in the Zero-Carbon Park of Slenergy In today's worldwide landscape, the escalating severity of climate change necessitates decisive actions to reduce carbon emissions and achieve carbon neutrality. The Paris Agreement, a global call to action, outlines the need to reduce emissions by 45% from 2010 levels by 2030 and attain net-zero emissions by 2050. In this context, Slenergy strives to balance its carbon footprint. This very mission has been embodied in its zero-carbon park design. Under this visionary framework, Slenergy has achieved complete self-sufficiency in electricity generation through its solar stations atop the factories, and 7536.02 tons of carbon emissions are expected to be reduced with these solar stations over the next 25 years. Besides the solar installations, Slenergy has adopted a water-cooling system during the burn-in test. The great amount of excess heat generated in this process is recycled and primarily used to provide hot water for its dormitories and maintain workshop temperatures during the winter months. Furthermore, Slenergy employs advanced systems to actively combat emissions. Harmful gases discharged during the conformal coating process are efficiently captured and removed directly from production lines. Advanced rooftop air purification systems ensure emissions meet stringent environmental standards. As a visionary leader in the new energy industry, Slenergy's core value lies in the introduction of precision manufacturing standards and innovative technologies into its operations. These advancements have been translated into the integration of automatic production lines in its smart factory, boasting a remarkable yield rate exceeding 99%. This efficiency has played a pivotal role in waste reduction, a critical component of carbon emission mitigation. Committed to creating a more sustainable new energy industry, Slenergy has achieved remarkable results in European countries, with a strong focus on Germany. The company is set to take its mission even further by hosting a new product launch event in Milan this October. The event aims to make its iShare-Home one-stop residential energy solution accessible to a broader audience, thereby promoting energy independence and nurturing a sustainable future for all. SOURCE SLENERGY SpeeDee's New Orleans Area Locations are Joining the Fight with a Pink Out During October, Raising Money for Susan G. Komen NEW ORLEANS, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and SpeeDee Oil Change & Auto Service recently announced a new oil change promotion that supports the fight for the cure. The New Orleans metro area SpeeDee Oil Change & Auto Service locations will donate $2 from every oil change to Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation throughout the entire month of October. Locally owned and operated, the first SpeeDee Oil Change location was opened in Metairie, Louisiana, in 1980. Since SpeeDee began in New Orleans, local owners are proud to give back to the local community while donating to a great cause. SpeeDee Breast Cancer Awareness According to the CDC, every year in the United States, about 240,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women and about 2,100 in men, and about 42,000 women and 500 men in the U.S. die each year from breast cancer. SpeeDee turns pink for the first time in honor of those affected by breast cancer and to support the research to help cure the disease. The SpeeDee locations listed below will donate money to Susan G. Komen every time an oil change is completed: 8835 Veterans Blvd, Metairie, LA 3211 Williams Blvd, Kenner, LA 1714 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Metairie, LA 1301 N Morrison Blvd, Hammond, LA 2601 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 4001 Veterans Blvd, Metairie, LA 616 Terry Pkwy, Gretna, LA 3333 S Carrollton Ave, New Orleans, LA "The entire Gulf Coast region has agreed to participate in our support of breast cancer research," said Scott Accardo, Vice President of Operations at SpeeDee Oil Change & Auto Service. "We are expected to raise over $10,000 for the fight in just 30 days. I'm very excited to be part of this effort and am grateful for the SpeeDee team for coming together to support such an important cause." The SpeeDee Gulf Coast region will also participate in the 2023 Komen New Orleans Race for the Cure. The brand has a team of about 10 running in the race and will be outfitted in specially designed SpeeDee Certified pink uniforms and hats. Mr. SpeeDee (Mascot) will also be in attendance, along with a tent housing an inflatable, gift bags, and bounce back coupons. "This is our first year joining in on the fight to cure breast cancer," said Ron Stilwell, President, FullSpeed Automotive. "So many lives are affected by this terrible disease. Our New Orleans area SpeeDee locations are making an impact with their donations to Susan G. Komen, and we couldn't be prouder of them." For other ways to support the team and their efforts, you can donate money on their fundraising page. For more information on FullSpeed Automotive and the company's flagship brands, visit fullspeedautomotive.com or call 800-364-0352. About FullSpeed Automotive FullSpeed Automotive is among the nation's largest franchisors and operators of automotive aftermarket repair facilities and home to flagship brands Grease Monkey, SpeeDee Oil Change & Auto Service, and Kwik Kar. FullSpeed brands offer oil changes, tire sales and rotations, brake services, car washes, and other ancillary services through multiple brand formats that target several desirable segments of the service market. The company's strategic geographic footprint of 900-plus franchised and company-owned locations provide density in high growth markets. In 2023, both Grease Monkey and SpeeDee were included in Entrepreneur's prestigious Franchise 500 ranking. FullSpeed is headquartered in Greenwood Village, CO. For more information, go to www.fullspeedautomotive.com. About SpeeDee Oil Change & Auto Service Founded in 1980, SpeeDee Oil Change & Auto Service is a franchise-based full-service automotive care company headquartered in Greenwood Village, CO. SpeeDee is a subsidiary of FullSpeed Automotive. There are more than 185 SpeeDee auto centers located throughout the United States and Mexico. In 2023, SpeeDee Oil Change & Auto Service was included in Entrepreneur's prestigious Franchise 500 ranking for the fifth consecutive year. SpeeDee is also proud to have received the VetFran 5Star rating demonstrating its extraordinary commitment to "provide access and opportunities in franchising to our Nation's Veterans and their Spouses." For more information, visit www.speedeeoilfranchise.com . Contact: Leah Trice, Fishman PR, 847-945-1300, [email protected] SOURCE SpeeDee Oil Change & Auto Service NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Spinal Trauma Devices Market size is projected to increase by USD 540.72 million, accelerating at a CAGR of 5.77% during the forecast period, according to Technavio Research. The report analyzes the market's competitive landscape and offers information on several market companies, including: Alphatec Holdings Inc., B.Braun SE, ChoiceSpine LLC, Genesys Orthopedic Systems LLC, Globus Medical Inc., GS Solutions Inc., Johnson and Johnson, Medtronic Plc, MicroPort Scientific Corp., Nuvasive Inc., Orthofix Medical Inc., ReWalk Robotics Ltd., RTI Surgical Inc., Smith and Nephew plc, Spinal Technology Inc., Spineart SA, Stryker Corp., Victrex Plc, Xtant Medical Holdings Inc. and ZimVie Inc. This report offers an up-to-date analysis of the current market scenario, the latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. Request free sample report now Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Spinal Trauma Devices Market 2023-2027 Spinal Trauma Devices Market 2023 2027: Company Profile: ZimVie Inc.: The company offers spinal trauma devices such as Biomet OrthoPak non-invasive bone growth stimulator system. To gain access to more company profiles available with Technavio, buy the report Spinal Trauma Devices Market 2023 - 2027: Segmentation Analysis The market is segmented by Product (Internal fixation devices and External fixation devices), End-user (Hospitals, Ambulatory surgery centers, and Clinics), and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia, and Rest of World (ROW)). Learn about the contribution of each segment summarized in concise infographics and thorough descriptions. View Free PDF Sample Report Spinal Trauma Devices Market 2023 - 2027: Regional Analysis North America is estimated to contribute 37% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. The increasing incidence of spinal disorders such as osteoporosis, spondylolisthesis, and scoliosis lesions has increased the demand for spine implants in the region. Furthermore, the rising number of product launches within North America is expected to be a key driver of growth in the spinal injury devices market. Spinal Trauma Devices Market: Drive, Trend & Challenge: Driver - The primary driver behind the market's growth is the escalating prevalence of spinal disorders. With the aging global population, there is a corresponding rise in the demand for spinal surgeries and associated implants. As the world's population continues to age, the incidence of spinal diseases is increasing. It's worth noting that spinal pain contributes more significantly to the global burden of disease, including mortality and disability, compared to a combination of HIV, diabetes, malaria, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, breast and lung cancer, as well as ear cancer, traffic accidents, and lower respiratory tract infections. Trend Technological advancements in spinal trauma devices is the primary trend in the market. Challenge - Risks associated with interventional spine procedures affect the growth of the market. Identify more information on key trends, drivers, and challenges in the market. Download the sample report to gain access to this information FAQS How do the major trends impact the market? How big is the North America market? market? How do the key drivers and challenges impact the market? Related Reports: Implantable Medical Devices Market: The Implantable Medical Devices Market size is estimated to grow by USD 51.1 billion at a CAGR of 8.25% between 2022 and 2027. Ortho Pediatric Devices Market: The global ortho-pediatric devices market size is estimated to grow by USD 1,661.08 million at a CAGR of 7.76% between 2022 and 2027. What are the key data covered in this spinal trauma devices market report? CAGR of the market during the forecast period Detailed information on factors that will drive the growth of the spinal trauma devices market between 2022 and 2027. Precise estimation of the spinal trauma 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 A thorough analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information about vendors Comprehensive analysis of factors that will challenge the growth of spinal trauma devices market vendors. Table of Contents: Executive Summary Market Landscape Market Sizing Historic Market Sizes Five Forces Analysis Market Segmentation by Product Market Segmentation by End-User 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 The partnership will support YouTube's multi-track audio platform and provide creators with resources to dub content into new languages LOS ANGELES, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Spotter, the company fueling the creator economy on YouTube, announces a deeper partnership with YouTube, which further supports creators' efforts to reach a global audience. The joint initiative is dedicated to YouTube's multi-language audio (MLA) platform and provides creators access to the resources needed to dub content into new languages. Together, Spotter and YouTube are making language dubbing accessible to creators who previously lacked the necessary resources and capital to do so and are empowering them to utilize MLA to expand their reach across international audiences. Spotter partnered with MrBeast, the most-subscribed individual creator with over 185 million subscribers on YouTube, by helping fund the translation of his videos into 13 global languages. They just worked together to add a 14th language, expanding MrBeast's reach to a larger German audience. "When we saw the impact that foreign language dubbing had on MrBeast's channel, we knew we needed to find a way to bring that possibility to more creators," said Aaron DeBevoise, CEO and Founder of Spotter. "The largest hurdle for these creators in building a multi-audio model is often capital, which is why we're thrilled to be working with YouTube in making these growth opportunities available to a broader group within our Spotter creator community." Spotter has also previously supported YouTube creator Airrack in converting part of his library content to Spanish and Portuguese. About Spotter Spotter empowers top YouTube creators to accelerate their business and unleash their full creative potential by giving them access to the capital, knowledge, and community they need to succeed at scale. As the top provider of creator-friendly growth capital, Spotter tailors investments to meet the unique needs of each creator the company partners with, giving them the freedom to create without compromise. Creators are then free to reinvest those funds however they choose, from hiring a team, to building their own production studios, and everything in between, all while maintaining total control over their catalogs, their channels, and their future earnings. In addition to funding, Spotter provides creators with in-depth data insights into the performance of their existing content, enabling them to leverage the full value of their library, as well as the value of future uploads and how they can improve performance in the future. Spotter has already deployed over $790 million to YouTube creators to reinvest in themselves and accelerate their growth, with plans to reach $1 billion in investment in 2023. With a premium catalog that spans over 725,000 videos, Spotter generates more than 88 billion monthly watch-time minutes, delivering a unique scaled media solution to Advertisers and Ad Agencies that is transparent, efficient, and 100% brand safe. For more information about Spotter, please visit https://www.spotter.la/ . SOURCE Spotter PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Kaskela Law LLC announces that it is investigating the fairness of the proposed buyout of American Equity Investment Life Holding Company (NYSE: AEL) ("AEL") by Brookfield Reinsurance ("Brookfield"). On July 5, 2023, AEL announced that it had agreed to be acquired by Brookfield at a price of $55.00 per AEL share (consisting of $38.85 in cash and 0.49707 of a Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. share). Following the closing of the proposed transaction, AEL investors will be cashed out of their investment position and the company's shares will no longer be publicly traded. The investigation seeks to determine the fairness of the proposed transaction to AEL's investors, including whether AEL shareholders will be receiving sufficient consideration for their shares, and whether AEL's directors breached their fiduciary duties or violated the securities laws in agreeing to sell the company to Brookfield at $55.00 per share. AEL shareholders are encouraged to contact Kaskela Law LLC (D. Seamus Kaskela, Esq. or Adrienne Bell, Esq.) at (484) 229 0750, or by email ([email protected] / [email protected]) or online at https://kaskelalaw.com/cases/american-equity-investment-life-holding-company/, for additional information about this investigation and their legal rights and options. Kaskela Law LLC represents investors in securities fraud, corporate governance, and merger & acquisition litigation on a contingent basis. For additional information about Kaskela Law LLC please visit www.kaskelalaw.com. This notice may constitute attorney advertising in certain jurisdictions. CONTACT: KASKELA LAW LLC D. Seamus Kaskela, Esq. Adrienne Bell, Esq. 18 Campus Blvd., Suite 100 Newtown Square, PA 19073 (888) 715 1740 (484) 229 0750 www.kaskelalaw.com SOURCE Kaskela Law LLC StoreDot signs a strategic collaboration agreement with Volvo Cars Teams from both companies will work together on XFC B-samples for Volvo Cars' future electric vehicles First results of new collaboration set to be delivered next year StoreDot's '100in5' cells deliver 100 miles of range in just 5 minutes of charging HERZLIYA, Israel, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- StoreDot, the pioneer of extreme fast charging (XFC) battery technology for electric vehicles, has signed a landmark multi-year agreement with Volvo Cars to develop an optimized battery for next generation Volvo cars. This collaboration, with experts from Volvo Cars and StoreDot working together, will lead to the development of XFC cells which will be optimized and tailored for Volvo's future electric vehicle architectures. It's expected that the first samples will be delivered for testing next year. Javier Varela Chief Operating Officer & Deputy CEO of Volvo (left) and Doron Myersdorf, StoreDot CEO (right) Dr Doron Myersdorf, StoreDot CEO "This is a highly significant agreement for both StoreDot and Volvo Cars. Our teams are now working together at pace, developing B-sample cells for Volvo Cars' next generation fully electric architectures. There is a huge amount of work to do, optimizing all aspects of the system to meet Volvo's exacting requirements. But we are confident that we will be delivering our fast-charging technology for real world testing as early as next year with the goal to enable Volvo Cars customers to benefit from our game changing XFC battery which enables 100 miles of range in just five minutes." Javier Varela Chief Operating Officer & Deputy CEO of Volvo "Volvo Cars is already a strategic investor in StoreDot, but this newly agreed collaboration takes our relationship a step further. We are delighted to be working together to develop advanced sample cells for our future EVs. There is a lot of work to be done but the opportunities to develop exciting new charging technologies together are huge. We can't wait to see the fruits of our work being tested in the real world." Recently StoreDot reported performance feedback for the evaluation and integration A-Samples testing phase of its XFC electric vehicle battery cells. The comprehensive testing programs took place earlier this year by 15 leading global automotive brand manufacturers from Europe, Asia, and the US, as well as several of StoreDot's strategic ecosystem partners. About StoreDot: StoreDot is the pioneer and leader of extreme fast charging (XFC) electric vehicle batteries that overcome the critical barriers to mainstream EV adoption range and charging anxiety. The company has revolutionized the conventional Li-ion battery by innovating and synthesizing proprietary organic and inorganic compounds, optimized by Artificial Intelligence algorithms, enabling to charge an EV in under 10 minutes the same experience as refuelling a conventional combustion engine car. Through its '100inX' product roadmap, StoreDot's battery technology is delivering 'Range on DemandTM': 100 miles charged in 5 minutes in 2024, 100 miles charged in 3 minutes by 2028, and extreme energy density solution enabling 100 miles charged in 2 minutes by 2032. StoreDot's strategic investors and partners include BP, Daimler, VinFast, Volvo Cars, Polestar, Ola Electric, Samsung, TDK, and its manufacturing partner EVE Energy. In 2022, the company achieved a world first by demonstrating a live extreme fast charging of an EV battery cell in 10 minutes. StoreDot is on target for mass production readiness of 100in5 technology by 2025. StoreDot's media kit can be found at this link. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2234259/Javier_Varela_Doron_Myersdorf.jpg SOURCE StoreDot The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Kevin McCarthy, in his appearance at the Capitol to announce the investigation against Joe Biden for a possible impeachment trial. On September 27, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy ordered a formal impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. The House of Representatives has only ever impeached three U.S. presidents in history. All three were acquitted by the Senate. Republicans, at least those in the partys hard-right faction, want Biden to be the fourth. But it remains to be seen whether that will happen. Other impeachment inquiries have not led to an impeachment. Republicans have wanted to impeach Biden since the first day of his term. The day after he took office, on January 21, 2021, Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene filed articles of impeachment against Biden, but the move failed as the House of Representatives was controlled by the Democrats. In January this year, following the midterm elections, which handed back control of the House to the GOP, and the tortuous election of McCarthy as House Speaker, Republicans were back at it again. Lawmaker Lauren Boebert used a procedural shortcut, known as a privileged resolution, to introduce articles of impeachment against Biden for his alleged unconstitutional dereliction of duty at the southern border. But the measure caused a rift within the party, and the Republicans abandoned the idea. Now, the investigation ordered by McCarthy is linked to the business dealings of the presidents son, Hunter Biden, which he argues reflect an alleged culture of corruption and abuse of power. Hunter Biden was an advisor to Burisma, a Ukrainian natural gas company whose owner was involved in corruption cases. What is Biden accused of? When McCarthy announced the opening of the inquiry on September 27, he mentioned allegations that are far from being proven or that have only been presented partially. The Republican argued: Through our investigations, we have found that President Biden did lie to the American people about his own knowledge of his familys foreign business dealings. In the 2020 presidential campaign, Biden claimed that his son had not done business in China, which turned out not to be true, but Republicans have failed to prove that Biden was aware of Hunters business dealings or that as president he lied about them. McCarthy also claimed that Bidens interactions with his sons associates and clients resulted in cars and millions of dollars, but it has not been proven that these meetings went beyond greetings and a dinner. Nor has it been proven that the then-vice president was involved in any of his sons business affairs. McCarthy said that members of the Biden family (his son, Hunter, and the presidents brother, Jimmy Biden) and their associates received $20 million through shell companies and that 150 banking transactions were classified as suspicious. In reality, they were not shell companies, but limited liability companies, and the money did not belong just to the Biden family. Whats more, there is no proof that the business dealings were illegal, even if they were somewhat shady. Banks preliminarily flag high-value cash operations and international transfers as suspicious if their justification is not clear. For the time being, however, none have led to a criminal investigation. McCarthy also spoke of an alleged bribe to the Bidens that was reported to the FBI. But this was an unverified tip and has been denied by other testimonies. There is also no evidence that, as the Republican maintains, the Biden family has received favorable treatment from the government. The prosecutor investigating Hunter Biden is a Trump appointee and the Justice Department has elevated him to the rank of special counsel, which strengthens his independence. What is an impeachment? Articles 1 and 2 of the U.S. Constitution regulate the impeachment of public officials. In the case of federal public officials, it is the House of Representatives that presents the articles of impeachment, while the trial takes place in the Senate. Article 2, Section 4 states: The president, the vice president, and all civil officers of the United States shall be removed from office upon impeachment for and conviction of treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors. There are also state impeachment trials, such as the one that took place in Texas against its attorney general, Ken Paxton (he was later acquitted). What is an impeachment inquiry? McCarthy has ordered an impeachment inquiry to be opened against Joe Biden, alleging that there is culture of corruption around the Biden family, namely Hunter Bidens overseas business affairs. The House Speaker ordered the chairmen of three House committees to launch the formal investigation, which will bring with it subpoenas and summonses. It is a pre-impeachment investigation, to try to elucidate whether there is enough material to go forward with the proceeding. A formal investigation of this type is not required before an impeachment, but it is common practice. Can the investigation be opened without a vote? As House Speaker, McCarthy has the power to open an inquiry, but until very recently he stated that he would not do so without the vote of the full House of Representatives. When his predecessor, Nancy Pelosi, ordered the first impeachment inquiry into former president Donald Trump in September 2019, McCarthy wrote a letter to the then-speaker, saying that her decision to open an inquiry without a floor vote made it completely devoid of any merit or legitimacy. Up until less than two weeks ago, he had maintained the same position, telling Breitbart News that if the House moved forward on an impeachment probe, it would occur through a vote on the floor of the Peoples House and not through a declaration by one person. What are the next steps? The chairmen of three committees Oversight, Judiciary, and Ways and Means are in charge of launching the formal investigation. The three, who are all Republican, can issue summonses, requests and carry out other types of actions. Some lawmakers have indicated that they will carry out an in-depth investigation, since they have until the 2024 elections. The Republicans want to politically torture Biden and believe that an inquiry of this type can help counterbalance the legal woes facing Donald Trump ahead of the November 5 presidential elections next year, in which the entire House of Representatives and a third of the Senate are also up for grabs. After the inquiry is completed, the usual next step is for a commission to specify the articles of impeachment the criminal equivalent of the charges or accusations and to submit them to a House vote. If they are formulated and approved by the House, it would be the Senate that would carry out the impeachment trial. Does this mean Biden will be impeached? No. There are precedents for opening formal investigations after which no charges were filed. In 1860, president James Buchanan was investigated for alleged bribery and other accusations, but after working for a year the special commission in charge of the case concluded that there was no incriminating material. In 1867, the Judiciary Committee recommended the impeachment of Andrew Johnson, but the House voted against it (although Johnson would be impeached the following year in another case). There is a third example from 1974. In this case, the Judiciary Committee had approved three articles of impeachment against Richard Nixon for obstruction of justice, abuse of power and contempt of Congress for his role in the Watergate scandal. But Nixon resigned before the House could vote. What is the role of the House of Representatives and the Senate? Under Article 1 of the Constitution, the House of Representatives shall have the sole power of impeachment. Once an impeachment inquiry is complete, the House has traditionally tasked the Judiciary Committee the panel authorized to introduce articles of impeachment to hold hearings and draft impeachment charges. If those articles are voted out of committee by a simple majority, it would come to the House floor where a majority vote would be required to impeach Biden. In that case, Biden would become the fourth U.S. president to be impeached, joining Andrew Johnson, Bill Clinton and Donald Trump. The impeachment trial would then begin in the Senate. Chief Justice John Roberts would preside over the trial, lawmakers appointed by the House of Representatives would act as prosecutors, while senators would serve as jurors. According to the Constitution, no person shall be convicted without the Concurrence of two-thirds of the members [of the Senate] present. In other words, 67 votes would be needed if all 100 senators were present. Democrats have a majority of 51 to 49 in the Senate. What sentence can be imposed? Article 1, Section 3 of the Constitution states: Judgment in cases of impeachment shall not extend further than to removal from office, and disqualification to hold and enjoy any office of honor, trust or profit under the United States: but the party convicted shall nevertheless be liable and subject to indictment, trial, judgment and punishment, according to Law. An impeachment does not exempt a president from a criminal trial. In the hypothetical case that a president is removed, they are replaced by the vice president. Which presidents have been impeached? Only three presidents throughout history (Andrew Johnson, in 1868; Bill Clinton, in 1998, and Donald Trump, in 2019 and 2021) have been impeached by the Senate at the request of the House of Representatives. All three were acquitted. Who will testify as witnesses? The three Republican witnesses are Bruce Dubinsky, a forensic accountant; Eileen OConnor, a former Assistant Attorney General, United States Department of Justice Tax Division; and Jonathan Turley, a professor of law at George Washington University and a Fox News contributor. Democrats called Michael Gerhardt, a constitutional law professor at the University of North Carolina, to testify. Gerhardt served as special counsel to the presiding officer of former President Donald Trumps second impeachment trial. The Johnson case The impeachment trial of Andrew Johnson originated in a struggle between Democrats and Republicans at a time of growing tension after the end of the American Civil War. Congress controlled by a radical wing of the Republican Party approved a law that prevented the Democratic president from dismissing, without the support of the Senate, public officials appointed by the upper house. Ignoring this law, Johnson dismissed his secretary of war, an ally of the Republicans, which led to the impeachment. In two votes in May 1868, the Senate fell just one vote short of those needed to remove the president. The Clinton case The impeachment trial against Bill Clinton accused him of perjury and obstruction of justice for concealing his 1997 affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky. At dispute was whether Clinton lied under oath when he denied having had a sexual relationship with Lewinsky (with whom he had oral sex) and whether he hindered investigations by encouraging her to deny the relationship. On the charge of perjury, 45 senators considered him guilty and 55, not guilty. On the charge of obstruction, there was a 50-50 tie. He was acquitted. The Trump cases Trumps first impeachment trial is related to the current inqury against Biden. It was born from Trumps attempts to seek Ukraines help to smear Biden, who was then the favorite to win the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination. Trump wanted to hurt Bidens chances by using his sons business dealings against him. In December 2019, the House of Representatives accused him of abuse of power for pressuring Ukraine to investigate his political rival and of obstruction of Congress for ordering officials to refuse to testify. He was acquitted of both charges by a 48-52 and 47-53 vote, respectively. The second impeachment of Trump was unusual in that it was against a president who was no longer in office. Trump was charged for his role in the January 6, 2021 storming of the Capitol with incitement of insurrection. Of the 100 senators in the upper house, 57 including seven from his own party, an unprecedented occurrence found him guilty. But this was short of the two-thirds majority needed for a conviction. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Registered Nurses of UNAC/UHCP and hospital support staff of SEIU-UHW have delivered notice of a strike that will immobilize the hospital LOS ANGELES, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Most of the essential medical personnel at St. Francis Medical Center in Lynwood, California, will go on strike from Monday, October 9 through Friday, October 13. The unions representing 600 registered nurses (UNAC/UHCP) and nearly all the medical support staffnursing assistants, medical techs, and more (SEIU-UHW)presented the legally required 10-day notice yesterday informing hospital management and Prime Healthcare, the hospital's owner, of the looming strike. St. Francis Medical Center is one of the busiest hospitals in Los Angeles County, with the only Level II trauma, stroke, and STEMI (heart attack response) center for many miles around. Hospital management will feel the effect of almost all essential medical personnel at St. Francis walking out, with ripple effects spreading to other LA County trauma centers, from Harbor UCLA to St. Mary's in Long Beach, from County USC to UCLA and Cedars-Sinai. "They make short staffing a standard of care here, and it's just really sad for the community." Post this "It doesn't matter where you live. If you're driving down the 105 or 605 and you're in an accident, this is your hospital. This is where you will be coming," said Scott Byington, RN, president of the UNAC/UHCP affiliate at St. Francis. "Sometimes our whole ER has to function with only five nurses. And our ER is always packed with patients waiting to be triaged." Byington is a mobile critical care nurse at St. Francis, which means he's part of a crew that responds to trauma emergencies throughout the hospital. Prime Healthcare bought St. Francis Medical Center through bankruptcy in 2020, terminated 20% of the experienced RNs, cut RN pay by 12%, and instituted a three-year wage freezeduring the pandemic, even as RNs risked their lives every day with inadequate personal protective equipment. Now the hospital is dangerously understaffed nearly every day on every shift. RN turnover since Prime took control has been more than 50%. The RNs at St. Francis have filed more than 6,000 staffing objection forms with California's Department of Public Health (CDPH) just since June of this year. Each of those objections represents an instance when a unit and shift were short staffed in violation of California's Title XXII safe nurse-to-patient ratio regulations. "They make short staffing a standard of care here, and it's just really sad for the community," said Byington. "Many times, California Department of Public Health has been here. They acknowledge our complaint, they say yes, you're right, and they haven't done anything. "Why would any hospital want to violate the law? It's not about the contract language; it's about me dealing with people's lives every single day," Byington said. The St. Francis RNs represented by UNAC/UHCP and the ancillary and technical staff represented by SEIU-UHW are in separate negotiations with Prime right now for new contracts at St. Francis. The RNs' contract prior to the bankruptcy set standards for patient care and wages among nurse union contracts in the region and the country. In 2020, bankruptcy forced a substandard contract on the RNs, which Prime in negotiations seems determined to maintain. "The short staffing is severe and it's only getting worse," said Mayra Castaneda, an ultrasound tech at St. Francis, and leader within SEIU-UHW. "The patients are hurting, the nurses, the techs, the entire hospital. Just recently we had to divert patients and ambulances to other hospitals because we didn't have the staffing in the emergency room, we didn't have the staffing in ICU." Prime has rejected every proposal nurses have made for safer patient care, including: commitments to following Title XXII's nurse-to-patient ratios training for new nurses before they're assigned to critical care units like ICU and ER, rather than after they've been thrown into these challenging assignmentsPrime's current practice rules for nurses to float (take a temporary assignment) only to units for which they have been trained RN turnover at St. Francis was 24.01% in 2017-2019before Prime took over in 2020. From 2020 to 2022, RN turnover more than doubled to 50.42%. That's also more than double the national average for RN turnover in 2022 of 22.5%. On August 29, hundreds of St. Francis registered nurses and support staff joined an informational picket in front of the hospital to protest the chronically unsafe staffing and other unsafe patient care practices. Prime has acknowledged at the bargaining table that their pay for nurses is among the lowest in the surrounding area. In addition, Prime management has committed unfair labor practices (ULP) during contract negotiations with both unions, leading to charges filed by the unions with the National Labor Relations Board. This means the strikes by the two unions will be ULP strikes, which lends extra legal protection to the striking workers. "We are not going to back down," said Charmaine S. Morales, RN, UNAC/UHCP President, who addressed the crowd during the informational picket. "We said enough is enough and we mean it. Enough is enough. For the sake of patients and the community, we need safe staffing. We are depended on. It is unacceptable what is happening in this hospital. Shame on Prime." United Nurses Associations of California/Union of Health Care Professionals (UNAC/UHCP) represents more than 35,000 registered nurses and health care professionals in California and Hawaii, including optometrists; pharmacists; physical, occupational and speech therapists; case managers; nurse midwives; social workers; clinical lab scientists; physician assistants and nurse practitioners; hospital support and technical staff. UNAC/UHCP is affiliated with the National Union of Hospital and Health Care Employees and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, AFL-CIO. Jeff Rogers | [email protected] | 909-263-7230 Anjetta Thackeray | [email protected] | 909-455-5146 SOURCE United Nurses Associations of California / Union of Health Care Professionals Faster, Hyper-Accurate Commissioning and Beam Scanning Solution Now Available in Countries Requiring CE Marking MELBOURNE, Fla., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sun Nuclear, a Mirion Medical company (NYSE: MIR), today announced achievement of the CE mark per EU Medical Device Regulation for the SunSCAN 3D cylindrical water scanning system. The SunSCAN 3D system supports linear accelerator (linac) commissioning, beam scanning and annual Quality Assurance (QA) in Radiation Therapy. Since its release in May 2022, the SunSCAN 3D system has found widespread clinical adoption in countries outside of those requiring the CE mark for its efficiency and hyper-accuracy. Through a rigorous regulatory review and approval process, the SunSCAN 3D system is now available for sale in countries that require CE marking. Building on the Sun Nuclear pioneering cylindrical water tank, the SunSCAN 3D system offers faster, easier workflows. The cylindrical tank design eliminates the need for tank shifts and keeps detector orientation consistent. Users can be ready to scan in just 15 minutes, by simply rolling the tank in place, starting the filling process, and running the faster and more precise, automatic AutoSetup routine. To meet the increased prevalence and demands of stereotactic treatment deliveries, the SunSCAN 3D system offers enhanced accuracy of 0.1 mm throughout the 3D volume. The unique Virtual Reference Detector leverages pulse normalization that enables single detector scanning for increased efficiency of small field measurements. Intuitive SunDOSE software completes the SunSCAN 3D system for streamlined commissioning and annual QA workflows, with enhanced multi-tasking across the software program, easily optimizable scanning queues, and more. "As treatment delivery systems and delivery techniques continue to become more sophisticated, dosimetry solutions need to deliver enhanced features while keeping workflows simple," said Luis Rivera, Sun Nuclear Radiation Therapy QA President. "Particularly for departments doing stereotactic QA, SunSCAN 3D is a must-have for accurately characterizing their accelerators to meet the stringent needs of these deliveries." The SunSCAN 3D system is on display, and available for demonstrations, in the Sun Nuclear booth during the 2023 DGMP Meeting, being held in Magdeburg, Germany from September 27 30. The system will also be at the ASTRO (American Society for Radiation Oncology) 2023 Annual Meeting, happening October 1 - 4 in San Diego, California (U.S.). Learn more about the SunSCAN 3D system here. About Sun Nuclear Sun Nuclear and CIRS are part of Mirion Medical, a group of healthcare-focused brands within Mirion (NYSE: MIR). We provide innovative solutions for Radiation Therapy and Diagnostic Imaging centers. More than 5,000 cancer centers worldwide rely on us for independent, integrated Quality Management. With a focus on ongoing support, Sun Nuclear aims to ease technology adoption, enhance workflows and improve outcomes so that healthcare providers can achieve real results for Patient Safety. Visit us: sunnuclear.com. Follow us: @sunnuclear. Contacts For investor inquiries: Jerry Estes [email protected] For media inquiries: Erin Schesny [email protected] Sun Nuclear, SunSCAN 3D, SunDOSE, and Virtual Reference Detector are trademarks or registered trademarks of Mirion Technologies, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the United States and/or other countries. SOURCE Sun Nuclear Technology, Energy and Logistics Leaders Gathered for GROUNDBREAKERS 2023 SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Prologis, Inc. (NYSE: PLD), the global leader in logistics real estate, today hosted its annual GROUNDBREAKERS thought leadership forum featuring leaders in technology, global commerce, energy and supply chain transformation at the company's global headquarters in San Francisco. Prologis Co-founder, Chairman and CEO Hamid R. Moghadam and The Home Depot Chair, President and CEO Ted Decker kicked off the day with a conversation focused how AI is impacting industry, particularly the global supply chain. "I think AI is a big, fast-moving train. You better get on it or you're going to get run over by it," said Moghadam. "But before you can engage with AI and get value out of it, you have to have data and you have to have data digitized." Decker agreed, saying: "Every company has to be a technology company, a data company and increasingly a data science company." The Home Depot CEO reflected on how AI is helping their company adjust their consumer strategy: "We've always been an anonymous mass retailer. What we are increasingly being known for is that we will be mass personalization." Data Impacts HR Strategy The need for innovation and ways to develop and upskill talent for sustainable career paths has never been greater and data is a difference maker. That was the shared perspective of Alison Caplan, chief people officer for CBRE; Aaron Demerson, commissioner, Texas Workforce Commission; Christina Hall, Instacart's CHRO and Scott Marshall, Prologis' chief customer officer, in a discussion about the expectations employers are facing in a post-pandemic labor market. "We've done a lot of work around understanding the employee experience. Where do our employees value what we do? How do we pull those levers and give them more of those own experiences? Where are the experiences that we need to improve?" asked Caplan. "By really shoring up that employee experience, you're going to ultimately have higher engagement, lower turnover." The Shift Toward Clean Energy A panel of experts explored how quickly companies are evolving their mobility strategies and the challenges they are facing. In a conversation moderated by FreightWaves Founder and CEO Craig Fuller, Stella Li, EVP at BYD Company Ltd. and CEO, BYD Americas; Dave Merrill, co-founder and CEO, Elroy Aviation; and Laura Renger, executive director at California Electric Transportation Coalition, discussed where change is happening and how quickly. Li said, "We think the first area is last mile logistics; all the light-duty and even heavy-duty trucks that operate at a port can be electrified very quickly in next maybe three to five years." Prologis' Chief Energy and Sustainability Officer Susan Uthayakumar spoke with Martin Adams, general manager and chief engineer at Los Angeles Department of Water and Power; Alice Jackson, senior vice president of System Strategy and chief planning officer at Xcel Energy; and Carla Peterman, executive vice president, corporate affairs and chief sustainability officer at PG&E about how their organizations are pivoting to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions and sources. "Power has to match demand. When you have variable inputs coming in, it's a challenge," said Adams. "We're making our grid a lot smarter than it used to be, and we're investing in the smart grid to use better intelligence and invest in a smarter system." "Will ChatGPT take my job?" Brad Stone, author and senior executive editor Bloomberg Technology, explored how AI is impacting all aspects of the global economy with Azita Martin, vice president and general manager of AI for Retail, CPG and QSR, NVIDIA and Warren Packard, operating partner at AI Fund. "I think the best way I would describe AI is that AI is your assistant. In fact, someone asked the question, 'Will ChatGPT take my job?' No, but someone using ChatGPT will take your job," said Martin. "That's really important because AI can crunch a lot of data and give you a lot of information that would take several people and weeks to put together." Packard commented on how sector expertise will matter: "Supply chain is one of these verticals where it requires subject matter expertise. It's not going to be OpenAI, it's not going to be Anthropic, it's not going to be Microsoft or Amazon who come out and innovate in those spaces. They're going to helpbut it's going to be the entrepreneurs who understand those verticals that are able to create these really game-changing companies in these different verticals." Early-Stage Innovation Prologis' Chief Technology Officer Sineesh Keshav interviewed several Prologis Ventures partners: Kyle Bernhardt, chief product officer, TestFit; Gina Chung, vice president, Corporate Development, Locus Robotics; Layla Shaikley, Wise Systems co-founder and head of product; and Evan Smith, Altana Technologies co-founder and CEO. Each of these companies has an innovative solution that is actively impacting the logistics industry. "In our largest installations, we have over 700 robots operating, picking orders every single day, every single minute. We wouldn't be able to do that without AI," said Chung of her company's robots. "The biggest benefit that we provide to our customers is this lift in productivity." Hundreds gathered in-person, and thousands virtually, for the forum, which included additional LinkedIn Live half-time and post-show commentary. The keynote and panel discussions for GROUNDBREAKERS 2023 can be viewed on demand here. GROUNDBREAKERS 2024 will be held on October 2, 2024 in London. About Prologis As of June 30, 2023, the company owned or had investments in, on a wholly owned basis or through co-investment ventures, properties and development projects expected to total approximately 1.2 billion square feet (114 million square meters) in 19 countries. Prologis leases modern logistics facilities to a diverse base of approximately 6,700 customers principally across two major categories: business-to-business and retail/online fulfillment. SOURCE Prologis, Inc. New survey reveals AI perceptions, utilization in corporate legal departments NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As the popularity and proliferation of generative artificial intelligence (AI) continues to grow, a new report from law firm Lowenstein Sandler and the Association of Corporate Counsel - New Jersey shows that the legal community remains cautious about its integration into the internal operations of corporate law departments. The report, "Aware But Wary: In-House Counsel On The Power Of Generative Artificial Intelligence," surveyed in-house counsel at companies across sectors on their perceptions, awareness, and utilization of generative AI tools. The results illustrate the range of current attitudes toward AI across various in-house counsel roles and gauge how it is being used in legal and business operations now and in the future. "As improved data around the use of generative AI is released, firms and businesses will be more inclined to leverage these programs for their operations in the coming years," said Mary J. Hildebrand, CIPP/US/E, founder and Chair of the Privacy & Cybersecurity practice at Lowenstein Sandler. "With prudent policies and thorough training on the use of the evolving tools, it could prove to be the deciding factor for entities able to successfully engage with AI and revolutionize decision-making processes." While the survey's key findings found that most in-house counsel have not yet integrated AI into their department, many (62 percent) do see the potential for increased productivity with its use. However, the survey revealed some potential hurdles toward reaching that potential, with 43 percent of respondents expressing little to no confidence in their understanding of the technology, only 25 percent saying they've received training, and half of the respondents saying they had no plans for formal training or education. "AI is here to stay, but it is important for attorneys to understand its current limitations and be aware of potential risks, so they don't outweigh rewards. Professionals who understand its benefits and can manage its applications efficiently will be the ones to reap its benefits and create a road map for navigating pitfalls," said Bert Kaminski, Director, Legal - Google Cloud. Additional survey findings include: A noteworthy awareness of AI capabilities: 78 percent of respondents reported a moderate to high awareness of generative AI tools. Only 12 percent stated they have limited or no awareness. Lack of AI usage among in-house counsel: 64 percent of respondents said they have yet to use AI for legal tasks. Awareness around AI usage among companies: 46 percent of respondents said they were unaware of any instances where the technology was used in their legal department. Those who were aware noted at least some use in marketing, R&D, IT, sales, and operations departments, but were unaware of any generative AI usage in other departments within their companies. Questions by department: Many respondents reported that they have started fielding questions about the use of AI, with IT/Security (16 percent), R&D (16 percent), and executives/board members (13 percent) as the most frequent sources for queries. The questions most frequently involved legal risks (67 percent), ethical concerns (57 percent), restrictions on use (52 percent), and company policies (52 percent). Confidence in AI knowledge: 57 percent of respondents said they were moderately, very, or extremely confident about their understanding of AI, and 43 percent expressed either no confidence or only slight confidence. AI adaptation practices: Among respondents who have begun using AI technology, 33 percent reported using it for general research, 32 percent for document generation, and 11 percent for summarization tasks. Increased productivity: 43 percent of respondents cited increased productivity as the most prevalent benefit when leveraging AI in legal workflow. Another 39 percent cited work speed, 23 percent cited content and idea generation, and 12 percent cited the streamlining of repetitive tasks. Lack of policy creation: 21 percent of respondents said that their companies did not have any AI-related policies, while 15 percent stated that their employers were in the process of creating them. Only 8 percent said that they already have existing guidelines. Conducted between July 11 through August 31, 2023, the report surveyed 165 in-house legal professionals in roles including general counsel (26 percent), VP Legal (13 percent), senior corporate counsel (12 percent), and associate counsel (15 percent). Those who provided responses work at companies in a wide range of industries, including finance and insurance (18 percent); professional, scientific, and technical services (15 percent); manufacturing (11 percent); and healthcare and social assistance (13 percent). 42 percent of respondents came from organizations with more than 1,000 employees, while another 20 percent came from companies with 201-500 employees, and 14 percent from companies with 501-1,000 employees. Click here for the full report. About Lowenstein Sandler LLP Lowenstein Sandler is a national law firm with over 350 lawyers based in New York, Palo Alto, New Jersey, Utah, and Washington, D.C. The firm represents leaders in virtually every sector of the global economy, with particular emphasis on investment funds, life sciences, and technology. Recognized for its entrepreneurial spirit and high standard of client service, the firm is committed to the interests of its clients, colleagues and communities. SOURCE Lowenstein Sandler LLP DUBLIN, Sept. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Blinds and Shades - Global Strategic Business Report" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global market for Blinds and Shades was estimated at approximately US$9.9 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach around US$13.7 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% during the forecast period from 2022 to 2030. Blinds and shades are window coverings used for various purposes, including privacy, light control, and interior decoration. Segmentation by Product Type Roman Shades/Blinds : This segment is projected to record a CAGR of 3.8% during the forecast period, reaching a market size of US$4.3 billion by 2030. Roman shades and blinds are known for their elegant and classic appearance, making them a popular choice for interior design. : This segment is projected to record a CAGR of 3.8% during the forecast period, reaching a market size of by 2030. Roman shades and blinds are known for their elegant and classic appearance, making them a popular choice for interior design. Venetian Blinds: The Venetian blinds segment is estimated to grow at a higher CAGR of 5% over the next eight years. Venetian blinds consist of horizontal slats that can be adjusted to control the amount of light and privacy in a room. Regional Market Insights United States : The Blinds and Shades market in the United States was estimated at US$3.5 billion in 2022. The U.S. market is expected to continue growing, driven by the demand for window coverings in residential and commercial spaces. : The Blinds and Shades market in was estimated at in 2022. The U.S. market is expected to continue growing, driven by the demand for window coverings in residential and commercial spaces. China : China is forecasted to experience significant growth in the Blinds and Shades market, with a projected market size of US$1.7 billion by 2030. This growth is supported by urbanization, increasing disposable income, and a focus on interior design. : is forecasted to experience significant growth in the Blinds and Shades market, with a projected market size of by 2030. This growth is supported by urbanization, increasing disposable income, and a focus on interior design. Japan : Japan is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.4% during the forecast period. Japanese consumers value privacy and aesthetics, contributing to the demand for blinds and shades. : is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.4% during the forecast period. Japanese consumers value privacy and aesthetics, contributing to the demand for blinds and shades. Canada : Canada's market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1%, reflecting the country's housing construction activities and the need for window coverings. : market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1%, reflecting the country's housing construction activities and the need for window coverings. Germany : In Europe, Germany is anticipated to grow at approximately 1.5% CAGR. The German market benefits from energy-efficient window coverings and smart home integration. Key Market Players Some of the key players in the global Blinds and Shades market include: Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited Benjamin Moore & Co., Inc. & Co., Inc. Classic Home Improvement Products, Inc. Ciman S.R.L. BRIGHTSPARCS Belcor Interiors S.r.l. 3Form LLC Blinds 2 Go Limited Babel Bark, Inc. Carrier and Company Interiors Limited Cipolat Costruzioni Metalliche S.r.l. Conclusion The global Blinds and Shades market is expected to grow steadily, driven by factors such as urbanization, interior design trends, and the need for privacy and light control. Roman shades and Venetian blinds are popular choices due to their aesthetic appeal and functionality. The United States, China, Japan, Canada, and Germany are key markets contributing to this growth. In addition, there is a growing trend toward energy-efficient and smart window coverings, offering opportunities for innovation in the industry. This market presents opportunities for both established and emerging players to meet the evolving needs of consumers and businesses. What`s New? Special discussions on the global economic climate and market sentiment Coverage on global competitiveness and key competitor percentage market shares Market presence analysis across multiple geographies - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial Online interactive peer-to-peer collaborative bespoke updates Access to digital archives and trademarked research platform Complimentary updates for one year Access to curated YouTube video transcripts of market sentiments shared by CEOs, domain experts and market influencers via interviews, podcasts, press statements and event keynotes Key Topics Covered: I. METHODOLOGY II. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1. MARKET OVERVIEW 2. FOCUS ON SELECT PLAYERS 3. MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS Demand for Trendy, Innovative, Fashion-Forward, and Energy Saving Window Treatments to Support Market Growth Newer Features, Fabric, Styles, and Designs in Blinds and Shades What's 'In' and What's 'Out' in Blinds Luxurious Fabrics Honeycomb Blinds Organic/Eco-Friendly Materials and Nature Inspired Looks Repurposed Window Treatments Simplicity Neutral Colors and Steel Rods Architectural Features Metallic Sheer Curtains Space Enhancing Designs Floor to Ceiling Curtains Cellular Shades White Plantation Shutters Two-In-One Blinds Broader Drapes Roman Blinds Layering Other Shade Trends Summarized Technology Advancements Drive Myriad Trends in Window Treatments Space Growing Prominence of Smart Homes Drive Strong Demand for Smart and Automated Blinds and Shades A Prelude into Smart Shades Evolution Manufacturers Focus on Offering Automated Blinds and Shades Popularity of Home Automation Solutions: Opportunity for Automated Window Treatments Global Home Automation Market Size (in US$ Billion) for the Years 2019, 2022 and 2025 Electric Shades Add New Dimensions to Window Treatments Latest Trends in Smart Motorized Window Treatments Popularity of Energy Efficient Insulating Products Augurs Well for Cellular Blinds Trend towards Green/LEED Buildings Drives Demand for Sustainable Blinds and Shades Global Green Building Materials Market Size (in US$ Billion) for the Years 2019, 2022 and 2025 Natural Products Make Way into Window Blinds Eco-Friendly Bamboo Gains Traction Enhanced Workplace Sustainability by Incorporating Flexibility in Building Structures Low Maintenance Needs Present Shutters and Blinds as a Preferred Window Treatment Option Myriad Benefits Offered by Multi-Layered Windows and Motorized Window Blinds Drive Market Demand Advantages and Disadvantages New Direct-to-Customer Approach for DIY Window Treatments Addressing Cord-Related Child Safety Issues: Need of the Hour The 'Best of Kids' Program: A Step in the Right Direction Demographic & Economic Trends Impact Market Prospects Exponential Increase in Urbanization World Urban Population in Thousands: 1950-2050P Degree of Urbanization Worldwide: Urban Population as a % of Total Population by Geographic Region for the Years 1950, 1970, 1990, 2018, 2030 and 2050 Percentage of Urban Population in Select Countries for 2018, 2020, 2030, 2040 and 2050 Ballooning Global Population World Population (in Thousands) by Geographic Region for the Years 2018, 2025, 2040, 2050 Burgeoning Middle Class Population Global Middle Class Population (In Million) by Region for the Years 2020, 2025 and 2030 Global Middle Class Spending (US$ Trillion) by Region for the Years 2020, 2025, 2030 Innovations and Advancements Smart Blinds and Shades A Glance at Select Innovative Smart Blinds IoT-based Gadgets for Controlling Window Blinds Windows with In-built Blinds Top Down-Bottom Up Shades Cordless Treatments for Child Safety Horizontal Blinds Window Films Sliding Panels Roller Shades: Offering a Cross between Blinds and Shades 4. GLOBAL MARKET PERSPECTIVE III. MARKET ANALYSIS IV. COMPETITION For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/7w2t1w About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg SOURCE Research and Markets SAN DIEGO and IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- TAE Life Sciences , a pioneer in advancing Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) for cancer treatment, is thrilled to announce it is bringing BNCT to this year's annual meeting of the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) in San Diego. The company is set to revolutionize the way attendees perceive BNCT with an immersive Augmented Reality (AR) experience that offers an in-depth look at the future of cancer treatments, informative talks about the state of BNCT, and a variety of captivating exhibits. TAE Life Sciences Brings BNCT to ASTRO The AR experience at the TAE Life Sciences booth will offer visitors a captivating journey into the world of BNCT, featuring: A virtual tour of the Alphabeam system, showcasing the clinical workflow of BNCT and illustrating the inner workings of this revolutionary technology. Insights into the setup of a BNCT system, including details on building requirements, layout, and the treatment process. "We're on the verge of redefining how the world treats cancer and ASTRO is the perfect venue to showcase the capabilities of our Alphabeam BNCT system. We're not just showing a glimpse of our technology at the show; we're sharing a vision for a future where cancer is treated with unprecedented precision. We hope that the immersive experience we're bringing to the show ignites a spark of hope in the hearts of attendees, and together, we can work towards a brighter future for cancer patients," said Rob Hill, CEO at TAE Life Sciences. TAE Life Sciences will host a presentation, titled "Reimagining BNCT for Biologically Targeted Radiation Therapy," at its booth stage on October 1 at 11:00 AM. Featuring talks from Rob Hill, CEO of TAE Life Sciences, Minesh Mehta, MD, from Miami Cancer Institute, and Sandro Rossi, General Manager and Technical Director at CNAO, this presentation will include updates on the global progress of BNCT, pre-clinical and clinical results, and insight into the treatment's profound significance in shaping the future of cancer treatment. Presentation Details: Who: Robert Hill, CEO at TAE Life Sciences; Minesh Mehta, Chief of Radiation Oncology at Miami Cancer Institute; Sandro Rossi, General Manager at CNAO What: Presentation: Reimagining BNCT for Biologically Targeted Radiation Therapy When: October 1, 2023 at 11:00 AM Where: San Diego Convention Center, Booth 3732 Sandro Rossi from CNAO shared his enthusiasm, stating, "Our collaboration with TAE Life Sciences marks a significant step forward in BNCT and brings an exciting addition to Europe's first Hadrontherapy center. By incorporating BNCT into our comprehensive treatment offerings, we are expanding the horizons of radiation therapy to treat metastatic cancers. This groundbreaking approach has the potential to redefine how we combat cancer, making treatments more effective and tailored to each patient's unique needs. Together with TAE Life Sciences, we are not just advancing technology; we are advancing the future of cancer care in Europe and beyond." At ASTRO, TAE Life Sciences will have several exciting exhibits on display in its booth, including: BNCT treatment planning demonstration featuring TAE Life Sciences' proprietary dose engine running on the Raysearch treatment planning engine. Details about TAE Life Sciences' innovative BNCT drug development program, showcasing the latest advancements in its antibody boron conjugate (ABC) drugs as well as pre-clinical data. A compelling poster comparing treatment planning outcomes with TAE Life Sciences' Boronotyrosine (BTS) drug versus Boronophenylalanine (BPA), shedding light on the significant advantages of BTS in boron delivery for BNCT interventions. Minesh Mehta, representing Miami Cancer Institute, passionately emphasized the importance of accelerating BNCT research in the United States, stating, "Collaborations like the one between TAE Life Sciences and CNAO are essential to advancing cancer care. The opportunity for BNCT is burgeoning, especially with the increasing availability of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). Currently, there are a dozen or more ADCs that can be harnessed for boron conjugation. Fast-tracking BNCT research in the USA is not just a priority; it's an urgent necessity. We must seize this moment to bring BNCT to the forefront of modern cancer treatment and offer new hope to patients across the nation and beyond." For more information about TAE Life Sciences, Alphabeam, and the company's proprietary boronated BNCT drugs, please visit www.taelifesciences.com . About TAE Life Sciences TAE Life Sciences is a privately held biotechnology company committed to developing a new biologically targeted radiation therapy based on Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT). TAE Life Sciences is the only company developing the next-generation targeted boron drugs and low-energy accelerator-based neutron system optimized for an in-hospital BNCT program that delivers cancer-killing radiation with cellular-level precision to treat patients with aggressive and refractory cancers. TAE Life Sciences' Alphabeam neutron system and targeted boron drugs are currently in development and have not been approved for sale. More information about TAE Life Sciences is available at www.taelifesciences.com . Press Contact: Michael Farino New Era Communications 949-346-1984 TAE@newerapr.com SOURCE TAE Life Sciences Contracts Raise the Bar for Multi-State Operators in Illinois Cannabis Industry CHICAGO, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Workers at five Sunnyside Dispensaries a subsidiary of multi-state cannabis operator Cresco have reached tentative agreements for first union contracts with Teamsters Local 777. "Two years ago, we didn't have any cannabis workers under a collective bargaining agreement. Including these agreements, we have more than 15 contracts throughout the industry. The Teamsters are protecting and raising standards for workers in the cannabis industry," said Jim Glimco, Local 777 President. "I attribute this incredible success to the dedication, bravery and brilliance of the workers in this craft." The contracts at the dispensaries in Elmwood Park, South Beloit, Schaumburg, Rockford, and Buffalo Grove, Ill., contain significant improvements, including an end to at-will employment and the right to representation during disciplinary matters, scheduling based on seniority, a successorship clause in the event that the dispensary is sold, paid meal and rest breaks, paid time off, paid holidays, and 15 percent wage increases over the lifetime of the agreement. "At this rate it won't be long before nearly every cannabis retailer throughout Illinois is covered under a Teamsters contract, and we don't plan on stopping there," said Peter Finn, Teamsters Western Region International Vice President and Director of the Teamsters Food Processing Division. "We're fighting across the country to do something for this industry that should've been done a long time ago take cannabis out of the black market and make it an industry full of good, middle-class union jobs." Ratification votes will be completed for all five locations by the end of next week. Founded in 1937, Teamsters Local 777 represents workers in a wide variety of industries throughout the Chicago area. For more information, go to Teamsters777.org/. Contact: Matt McQuaid, (202) 624-6877 [email protected] SOURCE Teamsters Local 777 Deal further expands Teneo's Financial Advisory capabilities across Europe Significant expansion of the firm's presence in Germany FRANKFURT, Germany and LONDON and NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Teneo, the global CEO advisory firm, today announced a significant addition to the firm's global Financial Advisory business with the acquisition of Herter & Co., a leading independent debt advisory and financial restructuring firm based in Germany. Herter & Co. advises a wide range of corporate and private equity clients in Western Europe on debt raising, refinancing and restructuring. The high-caliber team of professionals offers independent specialist advice on all aspects of debt, with extensive expertise across the universe of loan products, capital markets instruments and ancillary facilities. The Herter & Co. team is renowned in the market for senior-driven execution capability across large and mid-cap transactions. The Herter & Co. team will join Teneo's fast-growing global Financial Advisory business reporting to Daniel Butters, CEO of Teneo's Financial Advisory business. Founder Marcel Herter will continue to lead the business, working with the wider global Teneo team. He will also work in partnership with Felix Schonauer, who leads Teneo's Strategy & Communications business in Germany, to continue to grow the firm's operations in this important market. Daniel Butters said: "We are extremely excited to welcome the Herter team to our business as we continue to expand our Capital Advisory offering and geographic footprint across Europe. Marcel and the senior leadership team at Herter & Co. have advised on some of the most high-profile cases in the market and have a unique independent proposition, which perfectly matches with our strategy and offering. As a testament to this, our teams are already involved on a number of the same situations. Together with our existing team, we will now provide a full suite of Capital Advisory services in Western Europe, with extensive access to the London and New York capital markets." Marcel Herter, Founding Partner of Herter & Co., said: "We are pleased to join the Teneo family. After significant growth and having advised on the largest transactions in the German market, it is time to take the next step and expand our international footprint. I have known the Teneo team for many years and look forward to contributing to the development of the business in the years to come." Felix Schonauer, Teneo Germany CEO, said: "We extend a very warm welcome to Marcel and his colleagues. Teneo Germany is very excited to expand our practice in size and breadth, to work together with our new colleagues and to further develop our integrated offer. As we have grown our business in continental Europe expanding significantly in Brussels, Dublin, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam and Berlin we now provide a broad range of global capabilities in Germany with the addition of Herter & Co." Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, Hengeler Mueller and William Fry served as legal advisors to Teneo on the transaction. Herter was advised by Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP. ABOUT TENEO Teneo is the global CEO advisory firm. We partner with our clients globally to do great things for a better future. Our full range of advisory services includes strategic communications, investor relations, financial transactions and restructuring, management consulting, physical and cyber risk, organizational design, board and executive search, geopolitics and government affairs, corporate governance, ESG and DE&I. For more information about Teneo, please visit teneo.com. SOURCE Teneo Annual award recognizes advances in biomedical research and clinical medicine HOUSTON, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Texas Children's Hospital is pleased to announce that the Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development team has been awarded the 2023 David and Beatrix Hamburg Award for their development of a recombinant protein-based COVID-19 vaccine technology, created in Houston, which has benefited millions of people around the world. "Developing and testing safe, effective and affordable vaccines represents the product or deliverable of true team science, and I'm personally thrilled to see this type of appreciation and endorsement by one of our nation's most important biomedical academies," said Peter Hotez, M.D., Ph.D., co-director of the Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development and dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. The Hamburg Award is awarded by the National Academy of Medicine in recognition of an exceptional biomedical research discovery that has fundamentally enriched our understanding of human biology and disease, leading to a significant reduction of disease burden and improvement in human health. "Our group of scientists works together across disciplines to develop and advance vaccines for tropical and emerging infectious diseases that disproportionately affect the poorest and most vulnerable individuals around the world," said Maria Elena Bottazzi, Ph.D., co-director of the Center for Vaccine Development at Texas Children's Hospital and senior associate dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. "This recognition reinforces the importance of fostering exceptional, creative and interdisciplinary scientific teams to advance biomedical sciences that benefit humanity." In addition to Drs. Hotez and Bottazzi, several other team members from the Texas Children's Hospital's Center for Vaccine Development were recognized including: Wen-Hsiang Chen , Ph.D., assay development and quality control unit leader, assistant professor in pediatric tropical medicine at Baylor College of Medicine assay development and quality control unit leader, assistant professor in pediatric tropical medicine at Baylor College of Medicine Jason Kimata, Ph.D., genetic engineering unit leader, associate professor of molecular virology and microbiology at Baylor College of Medicine genetic engineering unit leader, associate professor of molecular virology and microbiology at Baylor College of Medicine Jungsoon Lee , Ph.D., process development unit leader, tropical medicine research director at Baylor College of Medicine process development unit leader, tropical medicine research director at Zhuyun Liu, M.S., process development unit leader, tropical medicine research director at Baylor College of Medicine process development unit leader, tropical medicine research director at Baylor College of Medicine Jeroen Pollet , Ph.D., formulation and delivery unit leader, assistant professor in the Pediatric Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine formulation and delivery unit leader, assistant professor in the Pediatric Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine Bin Zhan, M.D., molecular biology unit leader, associate professor in Pediatric Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine The Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, in partnership with BCM Ventures, Baylor College of Medicine's integrated commercialization team, enabled the technology transfer of the COVID-19 vaccine technology to developing countries' vaccine manufactures to produce and advance the vaccine. In India, the vaccine is produced under the name Corbevax by Biological E. Limited. Botswana has also approved Corbevax and the Texas Children's team is further assisting with vaccine development capacity in Africa through a training program for scientists. In Indonesia, the vaccine is produced by manufacturer Bio Farma under the name IndoVac. ABOUT TEXAS CHILDREN'S Texas Children's, a nonprofit health care organization, is committed to creating a healthier future for children and women throughout the global community by leading in patient care, education and research. Consistently ranked as the best children's hospital in Texas and among the top in the nation, Texas Children's has garnered widespread recognition for its expertise and breakthroughs in pediatric and women's health. The system includes the Texas Children's Duncan NRI; the Feigin Tower for pediatric research; Texas Children's Pavilion for Women, a comprehensive obstetrics/gynecology facility focusing on high-risk births; Texas Children's Hospital West Campus, a community hospital in suburban West Houston; and Texas Children's Hospital The Woodlands, the first hospital devoted to children's care for communities north of Houston. The organization also created Texas Children's Health Plan, the nation's first HMO for children; Texas Children's Pediatrics, the largest pediatric primary care network in the country; Texas Children's Urgent Care clinics that specialize in after-hours care tailored specifically for children; and a global health program that s channeling care to children and women all over the world. Texas Children's Hospital is affiliated with Baylor College of Medicine. For more information, visit www.texaschildrens.org. ABOUT TEXAS CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL CENTER FOR VACCINE DEVELOPMENT Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development is one of the leading vaccine development centers in the world. Established in Washington DC as the Sabin Vaccine Institute Product Development Partnership (PDP) in the year 2000 and after relocating to the Texas Medical Center in 2011, it rebranded as Texas Children's Center for Vaccine Development. For the past two decades it has acquired an international reputation as a non-profit PDP, advancing vaccines for poverty-related neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and emerging infectious diseases of pandemic importance. In addition, it builds and strengthens capacity for vaccine development locally and with foreign nations and leads global efforts to guide and influence vaccine policy and advocacy through "vaccine diplomacy" as an international bridge for peace and vaccine development capacity. SOURCE Texas Children's Hospital Previously a TFG intern, Ann brings substantial research experience at the state, local, and federal levels. MOBILE, Ala., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- TFG is pleased to welcome Ann Durand as an Associate. Ann was hired full-time after her stellar performance as a 2023 Summer Intern at the firm. As an Associate, Ann will conduct research and provide support for clients' federal legislative and advocacy efforts. "We're so excited to bring Ann on to work with us full time! Ann's dedication to advancing public policy at all levels of government aligns perfectly with TFG's mission. With her impressive track record of collaborating with organizations like the National League of Cities and her scholarly achievements, Ann is an excellent addition to our team," said Jennifer Imo, Managing Partner of Client Services. "I've enjoyed my time at TFG so far and am excited to pursue my passion for researching and implementing impactful public policy full time! I look forward to contributing to the firm's goals to build stronger, more vibrant communities," said Ann. Ann has extensive experience conducting and analyzing research. Throughout her educational and professional career, her research has focused on developing and implementing public policy at the state and local government levels. For example, she has experience tracking and compiling COVID-19 data with organizations such as the National League of Cities to further the understanding of the interactions between levels of government in the legislative process. Before joining TFG, Ann worked as a professor at The University of Alabama while obtaining her Master's in Public Policy and Administration. Since 2017, Ann has served on the Board of Directors for a community bank in Georgia, where she oversees day-to-day business operations and strategic direction of the institution. In 2023, she was elected to the position of Board Secretary, tasked with keeping corporate records and ensuring regulatory compliance. For more information about TFG, please visit our website at www.thefergusongroup.com. Contact: Alexandra Yiannoutsos TFG 1901 Connecticut Ave. NW Suite 700 Washington, D.C. 20006 Phone: (202) 717-5755 [email protected] SOURCE The Ferguson Group, LLC Donald Trump at his purest. Demagogic, foul-mouthed, a climate denier and a liar, the former president held a rally in Clinton Township (Michigan) to counter-program the second debate between the Republican candidates for the primaries for the presidential elections of 2024. He used his speech to lash out at his likely rival in that election, President Joe Biden, for joining a picket of the United Auto Workers (UAW) union the day before in that same state, one of the key swing states for next year. Trump has had a few lapses lately (such as saying Biden was on his way to causing World War II), but he devoted much of his speech to trying to ridicule Biden, portraying him as mentally incompetent. You notice he spoke for a few seconds, and he had absolutely no idea what he was saying. He didnt know where he was. He didnt know what he was saying. Where am I? Oh, youre in Michigan, he parodied, despite the fact that the presidents speech on Tuesday was clear with a direct message. Trump also attacked policies supporting electric vehicles (EV). Among the concerns of the autoworkers is that many of the new EV plants have non-union workers with lower wages than the current ones in the sector. They fear a wage devaluation, which is why job security is among their demands. Trump took advantage of this and lashed out against electric cars: They dont go far enough, and they are too expensive. Hundreds of thousands of American jobs, your jobs, will be gone forever because crooked Joe Biden is selling out, but I dont think its him. I dont think he actually knows what the hell hes doing. I dont blame him. But hes surrounded with radical left Marxist and crazy people, fascists, bad people. Hes selling you out to China. Hes selling you out to the environmental extremists on the radical left. People have no idea how bad this is going to be also for the environment. You know, those batteries when they get rid of them [...] lots of bad things happen [...] Digging it out of the ground to make those batteries can be very bad for the environment, he said in his speech. The Biden administration has managed to attract heavy investment from battery plants and electric cars with tax incentives that have caused concern in Europe, but has left vehicles with Chinese components out of the subsidies. Even so, Trumps thesis is that Joe Bidens administration is going to destroy the U.S. auto industry and hand it over to China. The future of the automotive industry with Biden, he has said, will be Made in China and with him, Made in USA. White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre said just the opposite the day before: that Biden is fighting to ensure that the cars of the future are made in the United States by American workers unionized in good paying jobs, rather than made in China. During Bidens nearly three years in office, industrial employment has grown strongly, compared to a decline under Trumps tenure. Despite the corporate and high income tax cuts passed during his presidency, Trump presented himself in Michigan as the defender of the working class. Trump knows that to win the elections, he needs to attract votes from the working class that supported him in 2016 against Hillary Clinton. Back then, he presented himself then as a nationalist in search of the support of those disenchanted with globalization and seduced them with his populist discourse, which he is now repeating. He stole from the Democrats the traditional support of a good part of the industrial workers of the U.S. Rust Belt, where heavy industry is concentrated. He beat Hillary Clinton in 2016 in Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania, among other states where blue-collar workers have an important weight, and thanks to that, he won the presidency. Biden regained in 2020 the three states that, along with Arizona, Nevada, and Georgia, may again be decisive next year. Two weeks ago, the former president planned to counter-program the Republican candidates debate with a rally in Michigan. Then, Biden beat him to it, at the invitation of Shawn Fain, president of the UAW union. When Trumps plans came to light, Fain posted a hostile message against the former president: Every fiber of our union is being poured into fighting the billionaire class and an economy that enriches people like Donald Trump at the expense of workers. We cant keep electing billionaires and millionaires that dont have any understanding of what it is like to live paycheck to paycheck and struggle to get by and expecting them to solve the problems of the working class. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition AMARILLO, Texas, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As Congress works to avoid government shutdowns, and appropriate funding to the Rural Development budget which includes SNAP, WIC, EBT and Agricultural related agencies that serve an integral role in the U.S. food chain, the USDA is discussing a herd-share ban that would limit consumer access to nutrient-dense locally grown meatharming family-owned farms. The Beef Initiative As a result, the Beef Initiative, representing small to mid-sized family-owned cattle ranches across the country, is calling upon members of Congress today to support an amendment to H.R 4368 brought forward by KY Rep. Thomas Massie. "Herd-share is the last legal means for consumers to buy locally raised grass-fed beef, directly from their nearest farm," Beef Initiative Founder Texas Slim said. "This is the last line of defense for decentralized cattle, farm-to-table, and we have the science to prove the closer our food is grown to our kitchen tables, the healthier it is for our bodies and our environment." "A USDA ban would not only jeopardize our supply chain, but it would also signal the end of rural America and the beginning of a centralized meat industry similar to the monopolistic circumstances prompting the Packers and Stockyard Act of 1921." "We fully support Congressman Massie's amendment, preemptively securing America's farm-to-table supply chain, and we urgently call upon members of Congress to do the same," Slim said. The Beef Initiative is a collaborative co-op, uniting savvy consumers with environmentally conscious farmers to complete the farm-to-table cycle, and keep rural communities thriving. To learn more visit https://beefinitiative.com Media Contact: Breeauna Sagdal Media Relations 503.960.8180 SOURCE The Beef Initiative PALM SPRINGS, Calif., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Caravanserai Project, launched the first Inland Empire Hispanic Small Business Directory, highlighting over 150 for-profit and nonprofit businesses, supported and funded by the organization. The goal of the Directory, which is available in print and online, is to promote Hispanic-owned and led small businesses, highlight the hardworking and innovative entrepreneurs that make a positive impact in our region, and connect them to the Inland Empire business ecosystem. The Directory will be updated regularly with new Hispanic-owned small businesses as they join Caravanserai Project's network of entrepreneurs. The First Hispanic Small Business Directory for the Inland Empire, launched by Palm Springs based nonprofit Caravanserai Project Those selected for the Directory graduated from Caravanserai Project's Spanish-language Biz Readiness Training Program and received total funding of $1.5 million in micro-grants (up to $7,500 each). The small businesses included in the Directory span various industries and niches from brick-and-mortar retail shops, food trucks, farms, and childcare businesses, to innovative startups pushing the boundaries of technology, each entry reflects the dreams and aspirations of individuals who dared to transform their ideas into reality and are now creating jobs and providing goods and services that are growing the local economy and supporting the community. The 2023 Inland Empire Hispanic Small Business Directory is the result of Caravanserai Project's work as part of the SEED 2.0 initiative funded by the California Employment Training Panel. The Initiative launched in 2022 to support individuals who face significant employment barriers, with entrepreneurial training, technical assistance, and micro-grants to start or advance small businesses in California that address a social challenge or meet a community need. The program focuses on entrepreneurs with limited English proficiency, regardless of immigration or citizenship status. The beneficiaries may be US citizens, individuals who have been granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals or Temporary Protected Status or may not be lawfully present in the United States. Caravanserai Project was awarded $2M to train and fund more than 200 Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs. The 2023 Inland Empire Hispanic Small Business Directory launched as part of a marketplace event during which over 20 businesses included in the Directory showcased their work. The event was hosted by Visit Greater Palm Springs and Caravanserai Project at the Palm Springs Art Museum, as part of a partnership focused on advancing local small businesses active in the hospitality and tourism sector. The launch also coincided with a proclamation presented by Palm Springs Mayor Grace Garner, declaring September 27, 2023 as Palm Springs Hispanic Small Business Day. Caravanserai Project CEO Mihai Patru said, "Working with Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs over the last 16 months and developing this Directory has yielded deep learnings for us as an organization and the way we approach entrepreneurship, while providing a powerful opportunity to celebrate and share these individuals and their initiatives with the communities they serve. It is our hope that the Directory will help residents and visitors discover a new favorite spot or service in the region and inspire others to take action toward launching their own venture. Whether you're a local resident looking to support your community or an enthusiast of innovation and craftsmanship, the 2023 Inland Empire Hispanic Small Business Directory is a gateway to the vibrant tapestry of small businesses that make our region so unique". To learn about the program visit: caravanseraiproject.org/2023-hispanic-biz-directory/ About Caravanserai Project Caravanserai Project is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Palm Springs, California. Founded in 2016, Caravanserai Project's programs empower individuals from historically marginalized, under-resourced communities to launch for profit and nonprofit organizations that generate financial security, economic mobility, and systemic change. The organization has developed a rigorously structured process that provides entrepreneurs who face discrimination and barriers racial, ethnic, gender, sexual orientation, economic, cultural, and/or linguistic with access to culturally respectful mentorship, needed resources, and a supportive, creative network of peers. For more information: caravanseraiproject.org . Media Contact (240) 838 6570 366116@email4pr.com SOURCE Caravanserai Project Bank Foundation Celebrates Successful Fundraising Event Benefiting Entrepreneurs of Color in Northern Virginia FAIRFAX, Va., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Freedom Bank of Virginia announces the Freedom Bank Foundation's second annual Campaign Celebration event raised over $100,000 to support the NOVA Freedom Fund. The NOVA Freedom Fund, which is administered by the Community Business Partnership (CBP), provides financing and technical assistance to minorities and entrepreneurs of color in the DC Region. Since 2021, the Foundation has provided capital and assistance to seven local entrepreneurs. Today the Foundation has raised over $250,000 and looks forward to using the funding to assist the more than 100 businesses currently in the NOVA Freedom Fund's pipeline. Attendees at the 2023 Freedom Bank Foundation Campaign Celebration including NOVA Freedom Fund loan recipients Corey Boone, Just Math Tutoring Company; Noel Williams, A Touch of Serenity LLC; Quiana Gainey, SecureTech360 LLC; Sonja Caison, Caison Janitorial Inc; and Malissa Crenshaw and Ursula Moore, Advance Design & Manufacturing Corp. "We are grateful for the overwhelming success of our second annual Campaign Celebration event. We are exceptionally grateful for the support of our board of directors, employees, clients, vendor partners, and personal friends who stand behind the Foundation's mission of economic inclusion. Their generous donations enable the NOVA Freedom Fund to assist these deserving business owners and entrepreneurs, five of whom joined us at the event. The loan recipients are finding innovative ways to put these funds to use to grow and strengthen their businesses which are the backbone of our communities. We appreciate the hard work of the team at the Community Business Partnership who is administering the Fund on the Foundation's behalf. We look forward to using these funds to continue to make a meaningful difference for entrepreneurs and business owners of color in our area," said Joe Thomas, President and CEO. The Freedom Bank Foundation is a nonprofit, tax exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Businesses or individuals who are interested in learning more about the Foundation or the NOVA Freedom Fund are asked to contact [email protected] or visit freedom.bank/foundation. About Freedom Bank Freedom Bank is a next-generation community bank, headquartered in Fairfax, Virginia, offering commercial banking, personal banking, and mortgage banking solutions using banker expertise and innovative technology to build lead relationships with clients. Focusing on businesses, real estate owners, and professionals, Freedom Bank concentrates on key industry verticals to deliver unique, sector-specific solutions to help clients meet their goals and realize their dreams. Freedom Bank has sales office locations in Fairfax, Vienna, Reston, Manassas, and Chantilly, VA. The Freedom Bank Mortgage Division is headquartered in Chantilly, VA and the Freedom Bank Small Business Lending Division is headquartered in Harrison, NY. For information about Freedom Bank, visit our website at www.freedom.bank. Contact: Joseph J. Thomas President & Chief Executive Officer Phone: 703-667-4161 Email: [email protected] SOURCE The Freedom Bank of Virginia MILTON, Mass., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Friends of the Blue Hills, a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and preservation of the Blue Hills Reservation, today announced that Judy Lehrer Jacobs, their esteemed Executive Director, will move on after an incredible 19 years of dedicated service. Judy will continue to devote her professional pursuits to the stewardship of the natural world. Under Judy's visionary leadership, the Friends of the Blue Hills has experienced unprecedented growth, evolving from a grassroots movement with a handful of members to a thriving community of nearly 2,000 dedicated supporters and volunteers. Beyond the remarkable numerical achievements, Judy has instilled a culture of integrity, trust, stewardship, and community that stands as a beacon of excellence for non-profit organizations throughout the Commonwealth. Reflecting on her tenure, Judy Lehrer Jacobs expressed her gratitude, saying, "It has been an incredible privilege to lead the Friends of the Blue Hills for nearly two decades. I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together, and I have no doubt that the organization will continue to flourish under new leadership." Board President Matt Panucci also shared his sentiments, stating, "Judy's passion and dedication have been instrumental in the growth and success of our organization. Her vision has laid a strong foundation, and we are committed to building upon it as we move forward." To ensure a smooth transition, the Board of Directors has initiated a Leadership Transition Plan. Melissa Nelson, Manager of Stewardship and Special Events, will serve as Interim Executive Director during this period, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to the role. The Friends of the Blue Hills is actively seeking a new Executive Director to lead the organization into the future. LJN Advisory, a search firm that specializes in partnering with small nonprofits through leadership transitions, has been engaged in this pursuit. The search will commence and the Position Profile will be posted on the organization's website in early October. Requests for information and updates about the position can be directed to [email protected]. In closing, Matt emphasized, "The Friends of the Blue Hills remains stronger than ever, with solid financials, a growing membership, impactful programs, a dedicated staff, and a world-class Board. We are excited about the future and invite all our supporters to join us in celebrating Judy's extraordinary journey and the exciting path that lies ahead." The Friends of the Blue Hills will host an Annual Celebration on October 19th. The event will serve as an opportunity for the community to come together and recognize Judy's remarkable legacy. For more information about the Friends of the Blue Hills and their Annual Celebration, please visit friendsofthebluehills.org. **About Friends of the Blue Hills:** The Friends of the Blue Hills is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and protection of the Blue Hills Reservation, a natural gem located just south of Boston, Massachusetts. With a focus on conservation, education, and community engagement, the Friends of the Blue Hills works tirelessly to ensure the long-term vitality of this beautiful and ecologically significant area. To learn more, visit friendsofthebluehills.org. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Media: Morgan Pearson [email protected] SOURCE Friends of the Blue Hills PARIS, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Luxury Collection, part of Marriott Bonvoy's global portfolio of 31 extraordinary hotel brands, announces a new collaboration with Global Explorer Laila Gohar creating a transformative cake experience at Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Paris. Known for her avant-garde culinary installations, the chef and artist has lent her Surrealist touch to a 10-foot-tall cake installation in the hotel, on display from September 28-October 10, just in time for Paris Fashion Week. A matching, edible version of Laila's confection will also be available for purchase at the hotel's Bar 19.20 through December for guests and locals to enjoy. Global Explorer Laila Gohar at Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel "I am delighted to pay homage to French patisserie with this whimsical and imaginative project," said Laila Gohar, Global Explorer, The Luxury Collection. "Paris is a city that continuously inspires me, and it's been an absolute pleasure getting to collaborate with The Luxury Collection, at Prince de Galles. The property has become my home away from home in one of my favorite cities." Inspired by Gohar's frequent visits to Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Paris and the art of French pastry, her mesmerizing installation soars above the hotel's courtyard featuring a color palette of soft pink and green pastels and a design of intricately and expertly 'piped' adornments complete with a cherry on top. Thoughtfully created, all non-edible portions of the sculptures are made from repurposed and recycled materials. For those who want to have their cake and eat it too, Gohar has also translated the statement-making installation into an edible petite confection featuring coconut with raspberry compote and pistachio buttercream, in collaboration with the hotel's pastry team. These custom cakes are available for purchase at Bar 19.20 with a glass of champagne until the end of 2023. Additionally, Gohar has designed a matching gateau-inspired candle, retailed through Gohar World, designed exclusively for The Luxury Collection by Gohar. "We are thrilled to collaborate with Laila Gohar as she brings her unique and artistic eye to The Luxury Collection and to celebrate the distinctive craft of French patisserie with us in Paris," said Philipp Weghmann, Vice President & Global Brand Leader, The Luxury Collection. "We look forward to further cultivating our partnership with Laila by transporting elevated and unexpected, epicurean experiences to our guests around the world." The Luxury Collection's Global Explorer program celebrates the vibrancy of the world's most enchanting destinations through the eyes of leading cultural voices. Representing a broad selection of creative endeavors, these personalities are united by a deep understanding of world cultures, while identifying travel experiences in their own personal way. Born in Egypt, Laila Gohar has traveled the globe as an internationally recognized artist working with food as her creative medium. In her role as a brand ambassador, Gohar has previously collaborated with The Luxury Collection to create a globally inspired barware collection with complementing cocktail recipes drawing from her travels with the brand. Bar 19.20 at Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel is located at 33 Avenue George V, 75008 Paris, France, and the limited run Laila Gohar cake is available for purchase with a glass of champagne for 35. Laila Gohar x The Luxury Collection candle is available for purchase at the hotel and on gohar.world for $68 and able to be shipped globally. About The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts The Luxury Collection is comprised of world-renowned hotels and resorts offering unique, authentic experiences that evoke lasting, treasured memories. For the global explorer, The Luxury Collection offers a gateway to the world's most exciting and desirable destinations. Each hotel and resort is a unique and cherished expression of its location; a portal to the destination's charms and treasures. Originated in 1906 under the CIGA brand as a collection of Europe's most celebrated and iconic properties, today The Luxury Collection brand is a glittering ensemble of nearly 120 of the world's finest hotels and resorts in more than 35 countries and territories. All of these hotels, many of them centuries old, are internationally recognized as being among the world's finest. For more information and new openings, visit theluxurycollection.com or follow Instagram and Facebook. The Luxury Collection is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com. About Marriott Bonvoy Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International's award-winning travel program and marketplace, gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of 31 extraordinary brands offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok. SOURCE Marriott International Inc. The largest and fastest-growing Asian restaurant company in the world, Jollibee's cage-free egg commitment will positively impact millions of hens worldwide NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the Open Wing Alliance (OWA), an international coalition working to end the abuse of chickens worldwide, announces a victory in their worldwide campaign to persuade Jollibee to publish a global cage-free egg commitment. After months of campaigning globally by the coalition, Jollibee pledges to transition to 100% cage-free eggs in the US by 2025 and 100% cage-free eggs by 2035 globally. This decision will positively impact millions of hens worldwide, as Jollibee Foods Corporation's cage-free egg commitment will set a new standard in animal welfare and encourage other global food companies to follow suit. The Open Wing Alliance "We are thrilled to see Jollibee's commitment to animal welfare and cage-free eggs. This decision is an essential step towards creating a more humane food system and improving the lives of millions of hens," said Caitlin Campbell, Global Campaigns Coordinator at the Open Wing Alliance. "The Open Wing Alliance recognizes Jollibee's pledge and hopes that this decision will encourage Zensho Holdings to prioritize animal welfare in its supply chain." To date, over 2,500 major food corporations including 146 of the largest multinational corporations like KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, Papa John's, Burger King, Popeye's, Krispy Kreme, Nestle, Aldi, and Kraft Heinzhave announced 100% cage-free egg commitments. Caged systems promote stress, reproductive disease, and poor bone health in egg-laying hens. For more information about The Open Wing Alliance, visit OpenWingAlliance.org . Follow along with the cage-free movement on Twitter @GlobalCageFree . About the Open Wing Alliance (OWA) The Open Wing Alliance is a global coalition of animal protection organizations trailblazing farm animal welfare in nearly every major market in the world. Through shared knowledge, resources, and person power, the OWA is united around their goal to end the abuse of chickens worldwide. The alliance was founded in 2016 by The Humane League and has grown into a global force with 100 member organizations in 72 countries, changing how the world's biggest companies treat animals and setting a new standard for corporate animal welfare policies, locally and globally. Contact Katie Wagner Interim Director, Public Relations [email protected] 1 (513) 260-2700 www.openwingalliance.org SOURCE The Open Wing Alliance JERUSALEM, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hebrew University of Jerusalem today announces an unprecedented donation from the Paulson Family Foundation for the construction of a new building to be named the "Paulson-Barel" building, within the Rachel and Selim Benin School of Computer Science and Engineering, located on the Edmond J. Safra Campus in Givat Ram. The donation will improve and enrich the experience of Hebrew University's students and researchers, who are in high demand in the Israeli and international hi-tech industry. The Hebrew University's School of Computer Science and Engineering has been the birthplace of some of the world's leading hi-tech companies, including Mobileye and Lightricks. This gift from the U.S.-based Paulson Family Foundation will enable the construction of the fourth building in the computer science complex, thus expanding and upgrading the School's learning spaces and research laboratories. The new building will feature state-of-the-art education facilities including 7,000 sq. meters (75,300 sq ft.) of special laboratories, teaching rooms, office space, and computer stations in the labs and open areas. Prof. Asher Cohen, President of the Hebrew University: "Over the last decade, we have increased threefold the number of students at the School of Computer Science and Engineering. Thus, the current complex, which comprises three buildings, will be at full capacity by the end of 2024. The construction of this fourth building will enable us to meet the huge demand for the outstanding hi-tech personnel that the University produces. The Paulson Family Foundation's generous donation will allow us to continue supporting the Israeli hi-tech industry in the best possible way." The Paulson Family Foundation was founded in 2009 by John Paulson, President of Paulson & Co., a global investment company. The Foundation invests in education, science, health, culture, and the arts. John Paulson, Founder and Chairman of the Foundation: "Israel's quality higher education is largely responsible for the country's technology boom and rapid economic development. This gift will ensure that the Hebrew University has the resources to meet the growing demand for computer science and engineering education." Prof. Sara Cohen, Dean of the School of Computer Science and Engineering: "We are immensely grateful to the Paulson Family Foundation for this generous donation, which will significantly improve the learning and research experience of our students and researchers, who are influencing the future of our field on a daily basis. The new building will provide these sharpest of minds, who are present on campus around the clock, with modern learning and research spaces to the highest international standards, and will also be the home of an AI research center that we are in the process of establishing". Joshua Rednik, Chief Executive Officer, American Friends of the Hebrew University: "This is a truly transformational gift from one of America's most successful investors. His contribution to developing the next generation of computer scientists is a worthy endeavor that will advance the industry at a global level and especially within the State of Israel." About the Hebrew University of Jerusalem The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is Israel's leading academic and research institution. Serving some 24,000 students from 80 countries, it produces a third of Israel's civilian research and is ranked 12th worldwide in biotechnology patent filings and commercial development. Faculty and alumni of the Hebrew University have won eight Nobel Prizes and a Fields Medal. For more information about the Hebrew University, please visit http://new.huji.ac.il/en. About American Friends of the Hebrew University American Friends of the Hebrew University (AFHU) is a national, not-for-profit organization based in the United States. AFHU is headquartered in New York and has seven regional offices working in close partnership with the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. AFHU provides supporters, Hebrew University alumni, and the public with stimulating programs and events, and organizes missions to Israel. The organization's activities support scholarly and scientific achievement at HU, create scholarships, fund new facilities, and assist the university's efforts to recruit outstanding new faculty. For more information, please visit http://www.afhu.org. Follow us on: Facebook | Linkedin | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube Media Contacts Paulson Family Foundation Steve Bruce / Morgan Davis ASC Advisors 203-992-1230 [email protected] / [email protected] SOURCE The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Participating companies represent the agricultural, food, specialized industry, and service sectors. The event is taking place on September 27th and 28th at the Costa Rica Convention Center. SAN JOSE, Costa Rica, Sept. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- With the aim of promoting exports from Costa Rica's agricultural, food, specialized industry, and service sectors, involving more than 600 micro, small, medium, and large companies, the 25th edition of the Buyers Trade Mission (BTM), the most important business event in the Central American region, organized by the Foreign Trade Promotion Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER), began this morning. The inauguration of BTM was attended by the President of the Republic, Rodrigo Chaves; the Minister of Foreign Trade and President of the Board of Directors of PROCOMER, Manuel Tovar; the General Manager of PROCOMER, Pedro Beirute; as well as officials from other ministries, CEOs, representatives from business chambers, and special guests. This year's BTM gathers more than 300 international buyers from 47 countries, with the largest delegations arriving from the United States, India, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama, Mexico, Peru, El Salvador, China, and Ecuador. Furthermore, over 600 Costa Rican exporters are participating, showcasing a diverse array of over 2,000 products and services. "Costa Rica is a country open to trade, as evidenced by the 17 free trade agreements that currently cover nearly 80% of the country's international trade. This robust trade platform, combined with Costa Rica's compelling value proposition, has facilitated the global entry of Costa Rican products. Today, we celebrate another edition of BTM, a pivotal tool for domestic enterprises, particularly SMEs, to gain exposure and secure new business opportunities," stated Manuel Tovar, Minister of Foreign Trade and President of the Board of Directors of PROCOMER. Pedro Beirute, General Manager of PROCOMER, added, "The foreign trade sector is Costa Rica's economic engine, representing 41% of the GDP and generating over 600,000 jobs in the country. BTM is a vital instrument for Costa Rica's export sector, especially for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. Through BTM, we bring the world to Costa Rica, enabling these enterprises to create more and better business opportunities, leading to increased economic development and prosperity for all." Out of the 600 participating export companies at BTM 2023, 31% belong to the food sector, 21% to services, 20% to the specialized industry, 13% are agricultural, and 15% are multisectoral, meaning they operate in more than one of the mentioned sectors. Moreover, approximately 200 companies originate from various regions outside the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM), with the Huetar Norte, Pococi, and Brunca regions having the highest participation rates at 25%, 24%, and 16%, respectively. In 2023, BTM expands its scope beyond offering opportunities solely for Costa Rica's export sector; it also attracts potential foreign investors. Fifteen buying companies have come to the country with a dual purpose, including an interest in analyzing investments in Costa Rica. These companies belong to sectors such as agriculture, agri-food industry, agri-tech, ICT, advanced manufacturing, distribution centers, light manufacturing, among others, and originate from countries such as Spain, the United States, the Netherlands, Germany, Guatemala, the United Kingdom, Belgium, and Mexico. Monica Umana, Investment Manager at PROCOMER, affirmed, "Just as BTM has been a global showcase par excellence for the export sector, it now serves as a positioning tool for the country in attracting investments. Thanks to the prestige of this business event, we have managed to capture the interest of around 15 buying companies with the potential to invest and grow in Costa Rica." The recruitment of these potential investing buying companies was undertaken by PROCOMER's Commercial Promotion and Investment Offices (OPCs) abroad. In total, there are approximately 100 business meetings that the Investment Management and Export Development Management of the Institution will attend to. A New Tool for Conducting Business One of the innovations of BTM 2023 is "Buy From Costa Rica," a new digital platform that facilitates connections between hundreds of Costa Rican exporters and buyers from around the world, thereby promoting business growth. "Buy From Costa Rica," a tool provided by PROCOMER to the export sector free of charge, empowers companies to expedite revenue generation and simplifies consumers' product search. Additionally, domestic suppliers can tailor their product catalogs to match buyer interests, establish direct connections with both current and potential clients, and manage quotation requests efficiently and conveniently. The platform allows exporting companies to add their corporate information, certifications, country brand licenses (such as Essential Costa Rica), sector, subsector, product categories, photographs, and contact details. Upon meeting the requirements* and registering on the platform, companies will automatically be integrated into PROCOMER's database and will enjoy supplementary benefits. These include the ability to verify potential customer information, receive various invitations to trade promotion programs, training, and events. Furthermore, buyers will benefit from streamlined commercial contacts, supplier meeting coordination, supplier operation verification, information regarding available exportable offerings, logistical information concerning trade with Costa Rica, and insights into investment opportunities in Costa Rica for business expansion. SOURCE PROCOMER The veteran home service industry advisor and mentor will help the Tampa, Florida-based background verification company scale its growth TAMPA, Fla., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Seal Company, a background verification company helping service companies provide a security promise to their customers since 2008, has hired veteran home service industry advisor and operations manager Lisa White as its new vice president of business development. White comes to The Seal with more than 25 years of experience in the trades. Not only did she work in business development for Nexstar Network for more than 21 years, she grew up in the industry as the daughter of a plumber. She wants to help service companies simplify their business. Lisa White, a veteran service industry advisor and mentor, will help The Seal Company scale its growth in her new role as vice president of business development. "My purpose in joining The Seal is to find easy solutions for contractors to get things done and lessen their work and stress load," she said. "One of my missions is to help contractors provide home and business owners with an easy-to-use verification system that verifies that the service tech they are letting into their home has passed a thorough background check. Homeowners want to know if their families will be safe, and The Seal of Security and Confidence helps home service companies provide them with that information." White said she came to The Seal because she firmly believes in its philosophy. The company's solution helps service businesses develop their reputation management program by giving customers a chance to confirm the credentials of their service technician, and it provides them with a quick option to leave a review after the service is complete. "I truly believe in the saying, 'trust but verify,' and this product helps consumers do that," she said. "Our platform is easy to use and works to benefit service companies in building their reputation management program. The Seal's platform will gather more reviews for your company. Period." The Seal founder and CEO Ed Marchiselli said White's experience in the trades will be instrumental to the growth of the company. "Lisa has played a pivotable role in her previous positions offering support and acting as an advisor and mentor to contractors who are trying to scale their businesses and foster sustainable growth," Marchiselli said. "Her deep expertise and hands-on experience will help The Seal expand our business development. We expect her to help us retain and develop valuable customer relationships that will last for years to come." Cool Today President Jaime DiDomenico, who worked with White when he presided over the Nexstar board of directors during her tenure there, is not only a fan of hers, but he is also a Seal Company customer. "With Lisa's experience and proficient network, I have no doubt that she will prove to be crucial to The Seal's continued growth," DiDomenico said. "The Seal has been integral to the expansion of Cool Today's reputation management program. The company will no doubt see its fortunes rise with Lisa on board." For more information about The Seal Company, visit https://theseal.com/. About The Seal The Seal provides verifiable criminal background checks for the employees of participating service companies. Through a process of third-party verification of the licensing, insurance and national criminal background and sex offender checks of employees, The Seal is able to provide The Seal of Security & Confidence. While many reputation management systems help manage reviews after a service call, The Seal helps you make a 5-star impression before the call and inspire more 5-star reviews and referrals from satisfied customers. Unlike other background check services, The Seal leverages your investment in your company's and customers' security to generate more business at better margins. For more information or to learn how to build your reputation equity, visit https://theseal.com/. MEDIA CONTACT: Heather Ripley Ripley PR 865-977-1973 [email protected] SOURCE The Seal Company EL PASO, Texas, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tecma, through its subsidiary Tecma Customs Solutions, announced today the purchase and merger of NCH Customs Brokers, a leading provider of US Customs Brokerage services along the US and Mexico Border. Nelson Calzadilla, The NCH founder, and President said, "This is a significant step for NCH, as the global realignment is bringing increased opportunities to our border region. Tecma brings the support and scale NCH has needed to respond and compete in this ever-changing environment." "Tecma brings the support and scale NCH has needed to respond and compete in this ever-changing environment." Post this Becoming part of the Tecma Family is a great acknowledgement for NCH. We have become an industry leader in US Customs Services and the Tecma name will give us greater standing in the cross-border manufacturing sector. "We could not be more pleased to bring Nelson and his NCH team on board as part of our Customs Group. Nelson has built a reputation of excellence in the complex world of US Customs compliance where other customs brokers have come to rely on" said Alan Russell, CEO of The Tecma Group. "We are honored to have reached an agreement with NCH and for Nelson to become part of the TECMA family. Combined with Tecma's current Customs operations we will scale with improved technology, improved service to our clients, and seek new business opportunities." Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. About Nelson and NCH Customs Brokers NCH Customs Brokers was founded in September 2009. What started as a one customer and one employee small enterprise has now grown into an operation that serves customers from the Fortune 500 list in diverse industries such as medical devices, automotive parts, and wind energy. The founder, Nelson Calzadilla has been a Licensed Customs Broker since 1995 and worked as a compliance officer and operations director for different international manufacturing companies. About Tecma The Tecma Group of Companies was co-founded over three decades ago by current company CEO, Alan Russell. Tecma has become an international enterprise that occupies over 8 million square feet of production, warehouse, and distribution space on both sides of the international border at El Paso, Texas and Ciudad Juarez, San Diego, and Tijuana with additional operations throughout Mexico. Tecma's divisions of US Customs Solutions, Cross Border Trucking, Warehousing and Logistics allows Tecma to be a total solution for its Mexico manufacturing clients. Read more at tecma.com. SOURCE Tecma KYODO NEWS - Sep 28, 2023 - 17:52 | World, All, Japan Cambodian investigative sources said Thursday that mobile phones seized by local authorities after they raided an apartment in Phnom Penh used as a base by over 20 Japanese nationals for alleged fraud were destroyed before the raid. The group's members, who have been detained by Cambodian authorities, are suspected of committing multiple cases of fraud in Japan from the location. Investigators from Japan have been sent to Cambodia and the suspects will likely be deported, according to the Japanese police. Cambodian authorities raided the apartment on Sept. 11 and confiscated dozens of mobile phones, as well as computers and documents that appear to be manuals for committing fraud, the sources said. About 20 of the phones have been broken, they said. The suspects said that they had been instructed to destroy the phones and documents if people other than the group's members sought to enter the apartment. There has been a series of cases involving Japanese scam groups using locations in Southeast Asian countries as hideouts. In April, Cambodian authorities deported 19 Japanese nationals over their alleged involvement in phone scams, who were arrested once they were returned to Japan. Related coverage: Cambodia deports 19 suspects to Japan over phone scams NORTH CANTON, Ohio, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Timken Company (NYSE: TKR; www.timken.com), a global leader in engineered bearings and industrial motion products, today issued its annual corporate social responsibility (CSR) report, which features an update on progress towards its 2030 environmental emissions target. The report also details Timken's efforts to improve the lives of individuals and communities and build a more efficient and resilient world. "As we advance our corporate social responsibility programs, it is increasingly evident how interconnected they are," said Richard G. Kyle, Timken president and CEO. "From our global operations to the communities where we live and work, we are pursuing a sustainable CSR strategy with long-term impact. At Timken, we continually focus on improving our operations. And, with our customers, we are continuously innovating to deliver more efficient and sustainable products including for the renewable energy industry, our largest end-market sector." Announced in 2022 and measured against a 2018 baseline, Timken's environmental emissions target is to reduce aggregate Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 50 percent by 2030i. This includes direct emissions intensity from its operations, and indirect emissions intensity from purchased energy. As of the end of 2022, the company had achieved a decrease of nearly 25 percent from its 2018 baseline. Helping to drive down emissions intensity, Timken used 10x more energy from renewable sources in its global operations last year than it did in 2018. Through the use of on-site solar arrays and purchase power agreements, the company expects to double its renewable energy use over the next three to five years. Meanwhile, Timken's Sustainable Engineering Process guides how the company creates and evaluates product sustainability across its portfolio and how it innovates with customers to advance everyone's CSR objectives. The process also helps the company identify opportunities to target additional improvements and progress across its portfolio. In addition, Timken is investing in strategic partnerships and STEM education, increasing the impact the company makes in developing the next generation of diverse engineering talent. Timken is focused on strengthening the skills and broadening the perspectives of its current and future workforce and next-generation leaders. The company provides employees with the necessary support to thrive and become leaders who understand the needs and desires of the global workforce of today and tomorrow. Reflective of its unwavering commitment to ethics, integrity and good corporate governance, Timken has been honored 12 times, including this year, by Ethisphere as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies. For the last three years, Newsweek has named Timken one of America's Most Responsible Companies. About The Timken Company The Timken Company (NYSE: TKR; www.timken.com) designs a growing portfolio of engineered bearings and industrial motion products. With more than a century of knowledge and innovation, we continuously improve the reliability and efficiency of global machinery and equipment to move the world forward. Timken posted $4.5 billion in sales in 2022 and employs more than 19,000 people globally, operating from 46 countries. Timken has been recognized among America's Most Responsible Companies by Newsweek, the World's Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere, America's Most Innovative Companies by Fortune and America's Best Large Employers, Best Employers for New Graduates and Best Employers for Women by Forbes. Safe Harbor Certain statements in this release (including statements regarding the company's beliefs, estimates, and expectations) that are not historical in nature are "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In particular, the statements related to Timken's environmental sustainability plans, developments, targets, goals and, expectations are forward-looking. Timken cautions that actual results may differ materially from those projected or implied in forward-looking statements due to a variety of important factors, including those discussed in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K. Except as required by the federal securities laws, the company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Media Relations: Scott Schroeder 234.262.6420 [email protected] i See the 2022 CSR report for additional details on the 2030 environmental emissions target SOURCE The Timken Company The car battery chargers market is undergoing a detailed analysis, with a distinction between manual charging and automatic charging methods. Car battery chargers are increasingly moving towards automation, and FMI provides in-depth insights into this trend and its implications. NEWARK, Del., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- According to forecasts, the car battery chargers market is expected to be US$ 22.09 billion in 2023 and US$ 43.47 billion by 2033. Download PDF Sample Report to Get an Overview of the Market: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-1844 Smart charging for electric vehicles to optimize energy usage based on energy cost, grid constraints, and renewable energy availability will assist battery charger market expansion. Energy technology advances due to the Internet of Things (IoT) being used to gather much data from distributed nodes. The smart farm in the agricultural sector collects information from several nodes dispersed around the farmed field on weather, soil moisture content, evaporation, and other factors. These nodes run on batteries and rely on intelligent solar-powered battery charging devices. The market for battery chargers is anticipated to develop due to the adoption of smart charging for electric vehicles to optimize energy use depending on energy pricing, grid constraints, and the availability of renewable energy. Due to internal enthalpy changes, electrochemical polarization, and resistive heating, the batteries' reduced performance is impeding the market's growth. Nikhil Kaitwade (Associate Vice President at Future Market Insights, Inc.) emphasizes that car battery chargers are indispensable tools in the automotive industry. These devices play a crucial role in maintaining and rejuvenating vehicle batteries, ensuring reliable performance, and reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns. Key Takeaways from the Car Battery Chargers Market Study By 2033, the car battery chargers market in the United Kingdom will likely expand, with a CAGR of 7.2%. will likely expand, with a CAGR of 7.2%. In 2023, the United States is expected to develop the car battery chargers business with a share of 14.7%. is expected to develop the car battery chargers business with a share of 14.7%. The car battery chargers market grew considerably to US$ 20.73 billion in 2022. in 2022. The car battery chargers sector expanded at a CAGR of 6.6% from 2018 to 2022. By 2033, China's car battery chargers market is projected to develop with a CAGR of 7.9%. car battery chargers market is projected to develop with a CAGR of 7.9%. By 2033, India's car battery chargers industry is projected to expand with a CAGR of 7.4%. car battery chargers industry is projected to expand with a CAGR of 7.4%. Japan's car battery chargers industry will likely grow significantly, with a 7.1% share in 2023. car battery chargers industry will likely grow significantly, with a 7.1% share in 2023. Australia's car battery chargers are expected to develop with a share of 1.2 in 2023. car battery chargers are expected to develop with a share of 1.2 in 2023. Germany's car battery chargers business is expected to grow, with a share of 5.5% in 2023. car battery chargers business is expected to grow, with a share of 5.5% in 2023. In 2023, based on the charging type, the automatic chargers segment is expected to dominate the market, with a share of 31.2%. In 2023, a car battery charger segment is expected to dominate the market, with a share of 35.4%, based on product type. Country-wise Insights: Car Battery Charges Market 2023: Country Market Share (2023) United States 14.70 % Germany 5.50 % Japan 7.10 % Australia 1.20 % To be a leader or player, take calculated risks. To strengthen your strategies, buy the report. https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/checkout/1844 Strategies for Winning Against Competitors in the Manufacture of Car Battery Chargers Models for vehicles such as cars, motorcycles, ATVs, delivery trucks, and snowmobiles are among the new car battery chargers. Electric vehicles are expected to be utilized regularly for commercial and private transportation in this new era of mobility. Also, technical cooperation has significantly impacted the entire car battery charger sector expansion. Recent Development: A bi-directional onboard battery charger from Bel Power Solutions with an efficiency of over 94% and the ability to connect up to four charging units in parallel was made available in January 2021 . According to Bel Power, this charger charges EV batteries directly from the grid or a charging station. . According to Bel Power, this charger charges EV batteries directly from the grid or a charging station. At CES 2023, the premier technology event in the world, ABB E-mobility unveiled its ground-breaking Terra Home charging system. By the middle of 2023, it should be available for purchase. Terra Home's distinctive design enables consumers to maximize their use of renewable energy, thus lowering their carbon footprint. More Insights into the Global Car Battery Chargers Market Report In its new report, Future Market Insights (FMI) offers an unbiased analysis of the global car battery charges industry, analyzing historical demand from 2018 to 2022 and forecast statistics for 2023 to 2033. The study reveals growth projections for the global car battery chargers industry based on charging type (manual and automatic charging), charger type (Smart/Intelligent Charger, Float Charger, Trickle Charger), by portability (plugin and portable charger), by battery capacity (Up to 12V, 12V-48V, Above 48V), product type (Car Battery Charger, Electric Car Battery Charger), by applications (garage, personal use), and region. Get the detailed research methodology of the report, access it here! About the Author: Nikhil Kaitwade (Associate Vice President at Future Market Insights, Inc.) has over a decade of experience in market research and business consulting. He has successfully delivered 1500+ client assignments, predominantly in Automotive, Chemicals, Industrial Equipment, Oil and gas, and Service industries. His core competency circles around developing research methodology, creating a unique analysis framework, statistical data models for pricing analysis, competition mapping, and market feasibility analysis. His expertise also extends wide and beyond analysis, advising clients on identifying growth potential in established and niche market segments, investment/divestment decisions, and market entry decision-making. Nikhil holds an MBA degree in Marketing and IT and a Graduate in Mechanical Engineering. Nikhil has authored several publications and quoted in journals like EMS Now, EPR Magazine, and EE Times. Explore FMI's Extensive Coverage in Automotive Domain: The global automotive turbocharger market size, as reported by Future Market Insights (FMI), reached US$ 12.5 billion in 2018. Demand for automotive turbochargers registered an 8.7% year-on-year growth in 2022, indicating that it would reach US$ 16.6 billion in 2023. size, as reported by Future Market Insights (FMI), reached in 2018. Demand for automotive turbochargers registered an 8.7% year-on-year growth in 2022, indicating that it would reach in 2023. The Gasoline Turbochargers Market is anticipated to be worth US$ 12.05 billion in terms of revenue. The market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 7.6% to reach a market size of US$ 25.07 billion by 2032. is anticipated to be worth US$ billion in terms of revenue. The market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 7.6% to reach a market size of US$ billion by 2032. EV chargers market is projected to register an impressive CAGR of 26.6%. The market valuation of EV chargers is anticipated to grow from US$ 6,520.9 million in 2023 to about US$ 68,967.2 million by 2033. is projected to register an impressive CAGR of 26.6%. The market valuation of EV chargers is anticipated to grow from in 2023 to about by 2033. The global Clutch Friction Plate market is expected to witness a market value of US$ 11.0 Billion in 2023 and is expected to accumulate a market value of US$ 17.2 Billion by registering a CAGR of 4.5% in the forecast period 2023 to 2033. is expected to witness a market value of in 2023 and is expected to accumulate a market value of by registering a CAGR of 4.5% in the forecast period 2023 to 2033. Global Bumper Beam market is expected to witness a market value of US$ 1.8 Billion in 2023 and is expected to accumulate a market value of US$ 2.7 Billion by registering a CAGR of 4.0% in the forecast period 2023 to 2033. 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: [email protected] Website: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com LinkedIn| Twitter| Blogs | YouTube Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1197648/3531122/FMI_Logo.jpg SOURCE Future Market Insights HOUSTON, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- TritenIAG, a sustainable project development and management company, is proud to announce they are supporting World Energy GH2 on a FEED (front-end engineering design) study for Canada's first large-scale commercial green hydrogen and ammonia project powered through onshore wind projects. With the recent completion of significant development milestones, Project Nujio'qonik is emerging as a world leader in wind-to-green-hydrogen and ammonia projects. Recent milestones include a USD $50 million investment by SK ecoplant, completion of pre-FEED, submission of a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), and the successful approval of World Energy GH2's Crown land application. TritenIAG supporting Canada's first large-scale commercial green hydrogen and ammonia project Post this Project Nujio'qonik, a homegrown facility in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, is a cornerstone of Canada's agreement with Germany to stimulate hydrogen production by 2025, and to enhance German energy security with a supply of clean, emission-free energy. About TritenIAG TritenIAG has spent over 75 years entrenched in business-critical projects, establishing the project experience and nurturing the industry connections that we share with our clients. From project development through commissioning and startup, TritenIAG has the specialized expertise and proven methodologies to design and execute the most strategic solutions throughout a project's lifecycle. We provide the intelligent foundation on which successful projects are built. Triteniag.com World Energy World Energy is a low-carbon solutions provider focused on helping the world's leading companies make their carbon net-zero commitments real. The company is delivering ever-better solutions at an ever-greater scale to efficiently cut, accurately account, and transparently report carbon emissions reductions in operations based in air and on water, rail, and road. Founded on Earth Day in Boston in 1998, the company has been commercializing, producing, and distributing low-carbon fuels for more than two decades. To connect and learn more about the project visit worldenergygh2.com, facebook.com/WorldEnergyGH2, and linkedin.com/company/world-energy-gh2 SOURCE TritenIAG SAN DIEGO, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, during the company's annual customer conference that hosts nearly 300 of the world's largest shippers, Uber Freight announced the most comprehensive evolution of its logistics technologies designed to power the global movement of goods. Lior Ron unveils the company's next generation product roadmap during Uber Freight's annual customer conference The news comes nearly two years after the $2.25B acquisition of the market's largest transportation management company Transplace, which partners directly with shippers to manage their logistics networks. Now, with $18B freight under management, the company is releasing for the first time a next generation of products that infuse Uber's advanced technology development capabilities, including AI-powered software. The strategic expansion of the business enabled Uber Freight to build a new kind of logistics company, one uniquely able to offer the kinds of comprehensive, end-to-end enterprise applications and services for the industry in an increasingly complex logistics landscape. "The past couple of years have been transformative for our business, driving significant amounts of resources into delivering the next generation of technologies designed to power the global movement of goods," said Lior Ron, Founder and CEO of Uber Freight. "The focus on developing new enterprise solutions underpins our commitment to our strategic customer base and the industry at large as we drive to be the most comprehensive partner to advance logistics networks." Uber Freight has made a deep investment in technology, with $120M invested since the acquisition that is focused heavily on scaling enterprise applications that span logistics software solutions, generative AI and data-enabled insights tools, as well as innovative capacity and mode expansions. Reimagining logistics management with advanced software Uber Freight is rolling out the most comprehensive update of the widely-used Uber Freight TMS since it was first launched by Transplace in 2005. The Uber Freight TMS is the all-in-one solution for planning, executing, and monitoring complex logistics operations across modes and regions, bringing shippers the time-tested expertise, Uber-grade technology, and high-quality service they need to drive their intelligent logistics forward. Initial upgrades focus on delivering a new standard of visibility, foresight, and control, "Uberizing" modules to promote ease of use and actionable dataall while expanding global, end-to-end shipment visibility across modes including rail, ocean, and air. "When you have a supply chain that's expansive and complex as ours, cutting-edge technology isn't a nice-to-haveit's essential," said Randy Cooper, Director of Transportation at Del Monte Foods. "Our partnership with Uber Freight's managed transportation and innovative technology has become our secret sauce as we serve our customers." Uber Freight is deepening its investment in software solutions with the launch of Uber Freight Exchange, a powerful new tool designed to meet the evolving needs of shippers and carriers by expediting freight procurement cycles and powering rapid shipment execution. Uber Freight Exchange is a neutral platform open to all shippers and carriersa shipper can utilize Uber Freight Exchange to run auctions with their own carriers, in addition to Uber Freight's network of 100,000 carriers across the US. With integrated communication, simple bid functionality, and historical performance reporting, it enhances operational efficiency, fosters partnerships, and safeguards lane coverage risks in any market conditions. Bringing the power of generative AI and machine learning to enterprise shippers Uber Freight is unveiling Insights AI, a powerful generative-AI-powered insights tool that will transform decision making in logistics and support transportation teams from granular, tactical views to more complex, strategic analyses. Insights AI will leverage LLMs to generate and surface insights from Uber Freight's vast store of transportation data for customers. Uber Freight is also leading the industry in the creation and application of AI and machine learning to drive network optimization and service improvements at scale with several new models rolled out recently, including a sophisticated ETA model, which, when combined with Uber Freight's Probability of Late Arrival (PLA) model, helps to drive automated 'self-healing' workflows to improve shipper service. Expanding dynamic capacity and freight modes, across regions Uber Freight has strategically grown the footprint of the Powerloop program to meet surging client demand for drop and hook and dedicated capacity solutions. The program has expanded operational scope from localized freight within Texas , California and Georgia , to regional and over the road freight stretching across several new states including Arizona , Utah , New Jersey , New York , Arkansas , Minnesota , Wisconsin , Illinois , Indiana , Ohio , Tennessee , Pennsylvania , Virginia , North Carolina , South Carolina , Florida , and Kentucky . , and , to regional and over the road freight stretching across several new states including , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , and . Uber Freight continues to gain ground as the most extensive autonomous freight network in North America with active partnerships with the leading developers and dozens of shippers moving autonomous loads on the network daily. In September, the company achieved a milestone of 100k autonomous miles driven with AV carriers on the network. with active partnerships with the leading developers and dozens of shippers moving autonomous loads on the network daily. In September, the company achieved a milestone of autonomous miles driven with AV carriers on the network. Uber Freight has expanded support across the North American cross-border supply chain. To meet a 20% increase in production from across the customer base, the company now has six cross-border locations between US and Mexico and over 1,000 team members throughout the region to support this tailwind. Uber Freight also shared the extensive progress the business has made since the acquisition, including expanding its connected network of shippers and carriers to one of the largest in the world with 2 million drivers registered since the founding of the company, and dramatically advancing its sustainability impact, with an estimated 2.4 million empty miles eliminated from its network in the past year alone. To learn more about Uber Freight's end-to-end suite of enterprise solutions and services, visit www.uberfreight.com ABOUT UBER FREIGHT Uber Freight is a market-leading enterprise technology company powering intelligent logistics. With a suite of end-to-end logistics applications, managed services and an expansive carrier network, Uber Freight advances supply chains and moves the world's goods. Today, the company manages over $18 billion of freight and has the largest network of carriers. It is backed by best-in-class investors including Greenbriar Equity Group and partnered with 1 in 3 Fortune 500 companies, including Del Monte Foods, Nestle, Anheuser-Busch InBev and more. For more, visit www.uberfreight.com SOURCE Uber Freight HANAHAN, S.C., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- UEC Advanced Electronics is excited to announce that we are standing up a Gen 3 6T Li-ion battery manufacturing line in Hanahan, SC. (Q4 2023) in support of the Army ground vehicle transition to hybrid vehicles. UEC Advanced Electronics will be manufacturing Gen 36T Li-ion batteries in Hanahan, SC made in the USA in 2024. Gen 3 6T Li-Ion UEC Advanced Electronics Post this UEC is currently going through qualification testing to MIL-PRF-32565 and compliance testing to NAVY S9310 with third-party test facilities, forecasting completion in 2024. UEC Gen3 6T Li-ion Battery advantages: - NATO 6T Gen 3 Li- ion Battery 24 Volt - Nuclear hardened option - Capacity (typical) 135Ah - 4 times the energy of Lead Acid 6T batteries - 1,200 charging cycles and 5-year operational life - Smart BMS with self-charging - CAN Bus communications (SAE) 1939 + MIL-PRF-3265C) Matt Bakker, President UEC. "Lithium-Ion battery technology is an exciting step forward for our UEC Advanced Electronics business in South Carolina. We look forward to contributing to electrification and 6T lead-acid replacement initiatives within the US defense community." About UEC Advanced Electronics UEC Advanced Electronics (https://uec-corp.com/) specializes in the design and manufacturing of reliable power systems (military and industrial) which include vehicle power systems, clean energy power systems, power distribution, mobile power management products and intelligent battery systems. In addition to design and development we are a full-service contract manufacturer of electronics, electromechanical assembly, intelligent battery systems and complex wire & cable assemblies. For more information about UEC Advanced Electronics visit https://uec-corp.com/ or contact Jim Murray, [email protected]. SOURCE United Electronics Company UEC DUBLIN, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Burger Restaurants in the US - Industry Market Research Report" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Industry revenue recovered in 2021 as the government eased COVID-19 restrictions. Consequently, industry revenue is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 4.9% to $176.8 billion over the past five years, including an expected 0.1% decline in 2023 alone. This report covers the scope, size, disposition and growth of the industry including the key sensitivities and success factors. Also included are five year industry forecasts, growth rates and an analysis of the industry's key players and their market shares. The Burger Restaurants sector, a dominant player in the foodservice market, has seen commendable growth over recent years. With rising disposable income, more consumers are dining out, further propelling this industry. Despite its standing in the food market, it hasn't been immune to challenges, notably from the expansive foodservice market and the setbacks of the COVID-19 pandemic. But even during lockdowns, the burger's status as a favored takeout option remained undeterred. Within this industry, from fast food joints to upscale eateries, the range of establishments varies, encompassing chains, independents, and franchises. Dive into this comprehensive report to understand industry forecasts, key players, and growth metrics for the next five years. MAJOR COMPANIES McDonald's Corporation Burger King Corp Key Topics Covered: ABOUT THIS INDUSTRY Industry Definition Main Activities Similar Industries Additional Resources INDUSTRY AT A GLANCE INDUSTRY PERFORMANCE Executive Summary Key External Drivers Current Performance Industry Outlook Industry Life Cycle PRODUCTS & MARKETS Supply Chain Products & Services Demand Determinants Major Markets International Trade Business Locations COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE Market Share Concentration Key Success Factors Cost Structure Benchmarks Basis of Competition Barriers to Entry Industry Globalization OPERATING CONDITIONS Capital Intensity Technology & Systems Revenue Volatility Regulation & Policy Industry Assistance KEY STATISTICS Industry Data Annual Change Key Ratios JARGON & GLOSSARY For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/jyfhim About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg SOURCE Research and Markets DUBLIN, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "US Data Center Colocation Market - Industry Outlook & Forecast 2023-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The U.S. data center colocation market is estimated to reach a value of $11.54 billion by 2028 from $7.82 billion in 2022, growing with a CAGR of 6.70% In the United States, the rapid expansion of 5G coverage and its widespread deployment have created a thriving environment for edge data center investments. This nationwide trend is driven by the increasing demand for data processing capabilities closer to end-users. Additionally, the deployment of submarine cables like SEALink and Bifrost, expected to become operational in the coming years, is poised to enhance the country's global connectivity, further stimulating data center investments. To attract more data center investments, the U.S. government has initiated various schemes and incentives. Notably, Arizona is planning to extend its data center tax breaks until 2033. Under this program, data center operators can qualify for tax breaks by investing a minimum of USD 25 million in locations with populations of 800,000 or less or USD 50 million in areas with populations exceeding 800,000. Across the U.S. data center colocation market, sustainability is a key priority for all colocation companies. A notable example is CyrusOne, which, in April 2022, collaborated with Gexa Energy, a subsidiary of NextEra Energy, to procure 30 MW of solar and 10 MW of wind energy for its North Texas data centers. This move toward renewable energy sources aligns with the industry's commitment to environmental responsibility. In the Southeastern region, especially Virginia, data center operators are showing keen interest and making significant investments to expand their presence and market share. The Western U.S. region, encompassing states like Oregon, Idaho, Utah, and California, has already established itself as a mature colocation market. These states house numerous data center facilities that offer colocation services to businesses and organizations in the region. The Midwestern U.S. is emerging as a major hotspot for data center growth, with operators strategically establishing facilities in prime locations such as Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, and Ohio. Additionally, the edge data center market is expected to experience substantial growth in northeastern states like New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut, significantly enhancing connectivity in the region. Key locations for data center expansion include Phoenix, Arizona, and Northern Virginia, where substantial investments and attention from colocation providers are driving the growth of data center infrastructure. Prominent operators in the U.S. data center colocation market include CyrusOne, DataBank, Digital Realty, Equinix, NTT Global Data Centers, Aligned, American Tower, CloudHQ, Cologix, Compass Datacenters, COPT Data Center Solutions, CoreSite, Cyxtera Technologies, DartPoints, DC BLOX, EdgeConneX, Prime Data Centers, and others. Both wholesale and retail colocation vendors are poised to thrive in response to the increased demand across various sectors, including BFSI, IT/telecom, and cloud, further boosting the U.S. data center colocation market. Edge Data Center Investments in Upcoming 6G Era Boosted by Next-generation Connectivity The U.S. is one of the fastest-growing countries regarding technological development and innovations. The upcoming sixth-generation (6G) networks are anticipated to bring advanced networking technologies to make implementing the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) easier. These improved networks will offer enhanced connectivity and capabilities, simplifying the integration of IIoT into different industries and making IT more accessible for businesses to utilize its benefits. Sustainability Initiatives by Colocation Operators Colocation companies nationwide focus on using renewable energy as their main power source. Operators plan to reduce harm to the environment by using clean energy solutions. This change is part of a larger trend in the market to adopt renewable sources, such as solar and wind power, to run data centers and other infrastructure. Colocation Demand Revolutionized by AI & VR Artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) drive the demand for colocation services in the U.S. data center colocation market. There is a need for dependable and scalable data center infrastructure As AI and VR gain traction across different industries. Colocation providers experience a significant increase in demand as businesses look for reliable hosting solutions to accommodate their AI and VR applications, ensuring top-notch performance and seamless connectivity. KEY QUESTIONS ANSWERED: How big is the U.S. data center colocation market? What is the growth rate of the U.S. data center colocation market? What is the estimated market size in terms of area in the U.S. data center colocation market by 2028? What are the key trends in the U.S. data center colocation market? How many MW of power capacity is expected to reach the U.S. data center colocation market by 2028? MARKET DYNAMICS Market Opportunities & Trends Edge Data Center Investments In Upcoming 6G Era Boosted By Next-Generation Connectivity Sustainability Initiatives By Colocation Operators Colocation Demand Revolutionized By AI & VR Adoption Of Advanced It Infrastructure In Data Centers Market Growth Enablers Tax & Sales Incentives That Fuel Data Center Development Continuous Investments By Colocation Operators Rise In M&As & JVs In Data Center Industry Expansion Of Submarine Cables For Enhanced Connectivity Data Center Market Driven By Growth Of Big Data & IoT Market Restraints Supply Chain Disruptions Concerns Over Carbon Emissions From Data Centers Workforce Challenges & Discrimination Data Center Growth Impacted By Security Challenges VENDOR LANDSCAPE Prominent Data Center Investors CyrusOne DataBank Digital Realty Equinix NTT Global Data Centers Other Data Center Investors Aligned American Tower CloudHQ Cologix Compass Datacenters COPT Data Center Solutions CoreSite Cyxtera Technologies DartPoints DC BLOX EdgeCore Internet Real Estate EdgeConneX EdgePresence Element Critical Evoque Flexential fifteenfortyseven Critical Systems Realty (1547) GIGA Data Centers H5 Data Centers HostDime Iron Mountain Netrality Data Centers Novva Data Centers Prime Data Centers QTS Realty Trust Sabey Data Centers Skybox Datacenters Stream Data Centers STACK Infrastructure Switch T5 Data Centers TierPoint Vantage Data Centers Vapor IO New Entrants AUBix Corscale Data Centers Edge Centres iMCritical PowerHouse Data Centers Quantum Loophole Yondr MARKET LANDSCAPE Market Overview Investment: Market Size & Forecast Area: Market Size & Forecast Power Capacity: Market Size & Forecast Colocation Revenue: Market Size & Forecast Segmentation by Colocation Service Type Retail Colocation Wholesale Colocation Segmentation by Infrastructure Electrical Infrastructure Mechanical Infrastructure General Construction Segmentation by Electrical Infrastructure Ups Systems Generators Transfer Switches & Switchgear Power Distribution Units Other Electrical Infrastructure Segmentation by Mechanical Infrastructure Cooling Systems Racks Other Mechanical Infrastructure Segmentation by Cooling Systems CRAC & CRAH Units Chiller Units Cooling Towers, Condensers & Dry Coolers Economizers & Evaporative Coolers Other Cooling Units Segmentation by Cooling Technique Air-based Cooling Technique Liquid-based Cooling Technique Segmentation by General Construction Core & Shell Development Installation & Commissioning Services Engineering & Building Design Fire Detection & Suppression Physical Security DCIM/BMS Solutions Segmentation by Tier Standards Tier I & Tier II Tier III Tier IV Segmentation by Region Southeastern US Midwestern US Southwestern US Western US Northeastern US For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/7v1pmr About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg SOURCE Research and Markets WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA recently awarded Dr. Janani Iyer, a scientist at Universities Space Research Association (USRA), a three-year flight grant to investigate the effects of deep space on Drosophila melanogaster (fruit flies) spanning multiple generations. This comprehensive study will utilize fruit flies as a model organism to assess the impact of various stressors on the brain, heart and muscle of fruit flies, given their biological similarity to the human system. Unlike the relatively protected environment of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) environment, deep space (beyond Earth's magnetosphere) subjects astronauts to significantly higher rates of ionizing radiationapproximately ten times greater. Understanding how chronic radiation interacts with others pace stressors is of paramount importance. Replicating deep space radiation in Earth-based analog facilities or on the International Space Station is challenging since it cannot be accurately replicated. However, the upcoming Artemis II mission provides a unique opportunity to study biological responses associated with the deep space environment. Dr. Iyer's fruit fly study represents a groundbreaking effort to explore the interplay between increased dep-space radiation, microgravity, and other stressors on various organ systems. Additionally, by comparing the findings from this mission with data gathered during previous LEO -based missions, researchers hope to identify distinctive signatures specific to both LEO and deep space environments. This knowledge will contribute significantly to our understanding of how humans can adapt and thrive in deep space. In the grand scheme of space exploration, this biological research is pivotal. It not only advances our understanding of our capabilities and knowledge but paves the way for humanity's future among the stars. Additional Resources: https://science.nasa.gov/science-news/biological-physical/nasa-selects-two-space-biology-research-studies-that-will-lead-to-a-better-understanding-of-what-it-takes-to-enable-organisms-to-thrive-in-deep-space-beyond-low-earth-orbit Disclaimer from NASA "While it is the program's intention that this selected project will fly as a payload on the Orion Space Capsule, NASA is still in the process of making an official determination of what science experiments can be accommodated on the Artemis II mission for the Space Biology Program. In the event that this study cannot be flown on the Orion Spacecraft, it will instead be manifested to fly on the International Space Station." About USRA Founded in 1969, under the auspices of the National Academy of Sciences at the request of the U.S. Government, the Universities Space Research Association (USRA) is a nonprofit corporation chartered to advance space-related science, technology and engineering. USRA operates scientific institutes and facilities, and conducts other major research and educational programs. USRA engages the university community and employs in-house scientific leadership, innovative research and development, and project management expertise. More information about USRA is available at www.usra.edu. 2023 Universities Space Research Association 425 3rd Street SW, Suite 950, Washington DC, 20024 PR Contact: Suraiya Farukhi [email protected] 443-812-6945 SOURCE Universities Space Research Association Providing sophisticated in-app ad verification tools to combat invalid traffic, support quality and improve performance for mobile and CTV publishers and advertisers TORONTO, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sabio Holdings Inc. (TSXV: SBIO; OTCQX: SABOF) (the "Company" or "Sabio"), a leading provider of connected TV ("CTV")/over-the-top ("OTT") advertising platforms validated by performance, is pleased to advise that through its wholly-owned US operating subsidiary, Sabio Inc., it has re-engaged DoubleVerify ("DV"), a leading software platform for digital media measurement, data, and analytics. Sabio Inc. engaged DV for the benefit of its subsidiary Vidillion Corp ("Vidillion"), a U.S. based streaming TV supply-side platform (SSP) and technology provider for content creators, and is utilizing DV Marketplace Suite Quality Insights. First initiated on June 09, 2022, Sabio Inc.'s engagement with DV is through an annual renewable agreement in which DV provides its measurement and reporting capabilities. This is a renewal of the agreement. With global CTV advertising spend continuing to see double digit growth1, publishers and advertisers need confidence in their media investments. Through this engagement, DV provides fraud detection and viewability reporting for CTV and mobile campaigns, including DV's Fully On-Screen measurement solution, ensuring quality and taking steps to protect advertisers against fraudulent and invalid web traffic. The engagement also enables Vidillion to segment and optimize inventory across their network, maximizing performance and value for advertisers. "The engagement with DV further solidifies our commitment to an effective, safe and transparent CTV ecosystem for both advertisers and publishers. It's not enough to identify invalid traffic, it's important that we make optimizations to minimize transactions on fraudulent impressions across our network," said Jon Stimmel, Chief Growth Officer of Sabio. With the growth of CTV as an increasingly vital component of media strategies, the industry faces challenges with measuring quality. DV has a comprehensive set of solutions tailored to CTV environments and is a leader in detection and prevention of new fraud schemes across all inventory types and devices. Last year, Vidillion announced it received TAG's Certified Against Fraud Seal , a cross-industry accountability program intended to create trust within the digital ad and content recommendation industries, and remains dedicated to combating fraud. Vidillion is enhancing its own supply side offerings with DV's capabilities. Vidillion is laser focused on making sure all traffic entering its ecosystem is held to a high standard and works with publishers to tackle any issues as they arise. Leveraging DV's measurement around viewability and fraud adds another tool towards the mission of fostering a high quality and secure advertising environment. Vidillion's technology stack includes proprietary tools for ad break optimization, server-side ad insertion ("SSAI"), content recognition, and dynamic ad insertion ("DAI") with demand-side partner integrations. These tools enable publishers to quickly and easily find new ways to monetize their Streaming TV inventory by allowing advertisers to precisely target viewers based on content, context, usage, and geography. About Sabio Sabio Holdings Inc. (TSXV: SBIO) (OTCQX: SABOF) is one of the fastest-growing CTV/OTT technology and service providers in the high-growth ad-supported video-on-demand ("VOD") and streaming space. Its cloud-based CTV/OTT technologies provide publishers with distribution, monetization, and analytics while delivering ROI validation for brands and agencies. The Sabio Holdings portfolio is comprised of: Sabio our trusted and transparent content monetization DSP; App Science our cutting edge, non-panel based, real-time measurement and attribution SAAS platform; and Vidillion our cloud-based ad-insertion, and content distribution and management platform. For more information, visit: sabioholding.com About DoubleVerify DoubleVerify is a leading software platform for digital media measurement and analytics. Our mission is to make the digital advertising ecosystem stronger, safer and more secure, thereby preserving the fair value exchange between buyers and sellers of digital media. Hundreds of Fortune 500 advertisers employ our unbiased data and analytics to drive campaign quality and effectiveness, and to maximize return on their digital advertising investments globally. Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain certain forward-looking information and statements ("forward-looking information") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, including but not limited to the growth expectations for the CTV market and future performance under the Company's relationship with DoubleVerify, that are not based on historical fact, including without limitation statements containing the words "believes", "anticipates", "plans", "intends", "will", "should", "expects", "continue", "estimate", "forecasts" and other similar expressions. Readers are cautioned to not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third-parties in respect of the Company, its securities, or financial or operating results (as applicable). Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking information in this press release are reasonable, such forward-looking information has been based on expectations, factors and assumptions concerning future events that may prove to be inaccurate and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the Company's control, including the risk factors disclosed in the Company's filing statement and management's discussion and analysis (MD&A), which are publicly available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com .. The Company has assumed that the material factors referred to herein will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement and is made as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intention and has no obligation or responsibility, except as required by law, to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. For further information: Jon Stimmel, Chief Growth Officer [email protected] 1-844-974-2662 Simon Wong, Executive Vice President [email protected] Sam Wang, Investor Relations [email protected] Hollis Guerra, DBC Brand Communications [email protected] 805-403-0705 1 https://www.spglobal.com/marketintelligence/en/news-insights/latest-news-headlines/connected-tv-ad-spending-to-jump-39-to-21-2b-this-year-iab-says-70105625 SOURCE Sabio Holdings Inc By integrating with SAP Fieldglass solution, enterprise organizations can leverage on-demand capabilities to fill last-minute shifts ALPHARETTA, Ga., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- WorkLLama, technology provider of an AI-driven, talent marketing, relationship management, and direct sourcing suite today announced that its Automated, On-Demand Shift Management Suite is now available on SAP Store, the online marketplace for SAP and partner offerings. This solution integrates with SAP Fieldglass and delivers candidates for shifts in real-time, allowing hiring managers to check availability, see which shifts are unfilled or underfilled, and respond quickly to find additional talent. "WorkLLama already integrates with SAP Fieldglass with our Talent Pool and Direct Sourcing and SAP SuccessFactors with our Talent Acquisition and Relationship Management Suite for customers seeking improved access to talent across all types of work arrangements including full-time, part-time, contract, freelance, and more," said Kevin Poll, SVP of Strategy at WorkLLama. "With the integration with SAP Fieldglass for shift management, WorkLLama further extends the value to SAP users and drives greater retention, productivity, and timely engagement with top talent for shift-based roles." WorkLLama's on-demand shift management transforms the way organizations manage shifts. Now, you can simplify and optimize shift management, recruitment, and increase retention in a single platform. Minimize time-consuming and often frustrating administrative tasks with a dashboard that enables clear workforce visualization, automated shift filling, and self-service features. When an open shift is detected, WorkLLama automatically sends out offers to an organization's pre-vetted, background-checked, and virtual bench to cover the shift before it begins. SAP Store, found at store.sap.com, delivers a simplified and connected digital customer experience for finding, trying, buying and renewing more than 2,300 solutions from SAP and its partners. There, customers can find the SAP solutions and SAP-validated solutions they need to grow their business. And for each purchase made through SAP Store, SAP will plant a tree. WorkLLama is a partner in the SAP PartnerEdge program. The SAP PartnerEdge program provides the enablement tools, benefits and support to facilitate building high-quality, disruptive applications focused on specific business needsquickly and cost-effectively. About WorkLLama WorkLLama is a total talent management and engagement suite. We create communities of highly engaged talent with a single, modern, AI-driven talent marketing, relationship management, and direct sourcing platform. Visit us at www.workllama.com. Follow us on LinkedIn. SAP and other SAP products and services mentioned herein as well as their respective logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of SAP SE in Germany and other countries. Please see https://www.sap.com/copyright for additional trademark information and notices. All other product and service names mentioned are the trademarks of their respective companies. SOURCE WorkLLama KYODO NEWS - Sep 28, 2023 - 10:30 | All, Japan The initial hearing for the retrial of a man whose death sentence was finalized for a 1966 quadruple murder in central Japan will be held on Oct. 27, his defense team said Wednesday. The date was decided at the sixth meeting between the court, prosecutors and the defense team for Iwao Hakamata, 87, who spent nearly half a century behind bars before new evidence led to his release in 2014. During the meeting at the Shizuoka District Court, prosecutors indicated their intention to request the examination of five new witnesses, including forensic experts, during the retrial. Mitsuhiro Hazama, a defense team lawyer, expressed "strong doubts" over the necessity of such a move. The three parties largely agreed to schedule five dates, including the initial hearing, within the year to examine evidence investigated in the final trial and retrial request proceedings, with witnesses to be questioned early next year. The defense team has requested that Hakamata, whose mental state has reportedly deteriorated, be exempted from appearing in court. If the request is granted, Hakamata's older sister, Hideko, 90, will attend the arraignment at the start of the retrial in his stead. Hideko expressed relief after Wednesday's meeting, saying, "I believe the retrial will find (my brother) absolutely innocent." In March, the Tokyo High Court, which was ordered by the Supreme Court in 2020 to re-examine its 2018 decision not to reopen the case, reversed course and ordered the retrial, citing the unreliability of the main evidence used. The decision became final after prosecutors decided they would not appeal the high court order. In July, however, they indicated they would argue for the conviction of Hakamata in his retrial by submitting new evidence, including a joint expert assessment of bloodstains on five pieces of clothing allegedly worn by the defendant during the incident. Hakamata was a live-in employee at a miso maker when he was arrested for allegedly killing the firm's senior managing director, his wife and two of their children. They were found stabbed to death at their home in Shizuoka Prefecture, which had been burned down. The former professional boxer confessed to the killings during intense interrogation but pleaded not guilty at trial. His death sentence was finalized by the Supreme Court in 1980. Related coverage: Prosecutors plan to prove guilt at 1966 Japan murder retrial Prosecutors to seek conviction at retrial of 1966 Japan murder Japan high court denies retrial of 95-yr-old woman over 1979 murder BARCELONA, Spain, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 33rd International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists (IFSCC) Congress (IFSCC Congress), known as the "Nobel Prize for Cosmetics," was held in Barcelona, Spain, from September 4 to 7. Yatsen with its high-end technological skincare brand, Galenic, made a grand debut at the event and became China's first emerging beauty group to be certified as a Gold-Level Benefactor of the IFSCC. Galenics proprietary rheolique peptide Yatsen entered a strategic cooperation with Lubrizol At the IFSCC Congress, Galenic released a paper on its proprietary rheolique peptide, competing with many cosmetic peers around the world. During the event, Yatsen announced that it entered into a strategic cooperation with Lubrizol, a global peptide giant. The two parties will further collaborate to research new ingredients, delve into cutting-edge anti-aging skincare sciences, and continue to expand the Yatsen Open Lab's R&D boundaries. Yatsen becomes a Gold-Level Benefactor at its second appearance at the IFSCC Congress In this year's IFSCC Congress, Yatsen announced that it was invited to be a Gold-Level Benefactor of the IFSCC. Dr. Carmina Casas, the 33rd Congress president, attended the awarding ceremony as the official representative, and Dr. Vania Leite, the 34th Congress president, witnessed the ceremony on site. At the award ceremony, Dr. Carmina Casas said, "We are delighted and proud to have Yatsen as the 33rd IFSCC Congress Gold-Level Benefactor. In just a few years, Yatsen has presented amazing changes to the global cosmetics industry. The IFSCC looks forward to maintaining a closer relationship with Yatsen and contributing to the R&D and innovation of the cosmetics industry together." According to the host, the IFSCC has strict criteria for selecting partners. Juergen Lademann, the IFSCC's global president, stated that a Benefactor brand must meet two conditions: "the strength that leads the market and the ability to contribute to the promotion and progress of cosmetic technology." Becoming a Gold-Level Benefactor of the IFSCC marks that Yatsen's sci-tech "hard power" and brand innovation and R&D have been recognized in the international arena, which is the result of the group's great efforts in R&D. This is the second appearance of Yatsen at the IFSCC Congress. At the 32nd IFSCC Congress in London last year, two of the company's scientific and technological achievements, the "investigation of salicylic acid nano-emulsion with slow-release and controlled-release efficacy and its efficacy in acne elimination" and the "study on the ability of grapevine flower cell extracts to counteract different environmental stresses based on 3D whole-layer human skin modeling," stood out from global cosmetic studies and were invited to be presented on posters at the IFSCC Congress. They were recognized by international cosmetic industry authorities as being novel, original, and scientific. Paper on proprietary rheolique peptide presented on site and cooperation reached with Lubrizol At the congress, Galenic presented a paper on its proprietary rheolique peptide on a poster on site, proving another significant breakthrough in cutting-edge scientific and technological R&D by Galenic. The paper, included by the 33rd IFSCC Congress, showed that Galenic's proprietary rheolique peptide makes a breakthrough by activating the longevity gene Klotho three times, thus slowing down cellular aging signals. Yatsen's Chief Scientific Officer Cheng Jing explained that rheolique peptide stimulates the regeneration of longevity proteins, protects the skin's collagen in every aspect, activates cellular autophagy, and inhibits stimulant factors of aging, thus achieving global anti-aging. This cutting-edge idea brings more breakthroughs in anti-aging. Currently, this proprietary achievement has been applied in Galenic Couture Secret D'Excellence the Active Cream. The proprietary rheolique peptide has been tested and proven to penetrate the skin's underlying layers, effectively slowing down the aging process. To further enhance the brand's comprehensive competitiveness in cutting-edge scientific anti-aging, Yatsen announced at the congress that it entered a strategic cooperation with Lubrizol, a global peptide giant, to launch a proprietary rheolique peptide ingredient. In the upstream raw materials, Lubrizol is known as the "House of Peptides," with notable strength in the R&D and application of argireline. It is renowned around the world by its continuous R&D and innovation capabilities and product iteration speed. Galenic and Lubrizol will delve into scientific skincare, aiming to create more scientifically effective skincare products for the everlasting beauty of consumers around the world. SOURCE Yatsen Global ZingHR, a leading global HR tech venture, will provide its all-in-one Cloud HCM solution to streamline and digitize HR Processes for Maldives Airport Company Ltd. (MACL). BANGALORE, India, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Maldives Airport Company Ltd. (MACL), which operates the primary international airport in the Maldives, Velana International Airport, and two domestic airports, has chosen ZingHR's comprehensive Cloud HCM solution to modernize and integrate their HR functions. This strategic move comes as MACL aims to consolidate the HR operations of its 4000+ employees spread across three airports. ZingHR, a Gartner recognized, global HR tech venture accelerated at Microsoft and backed by Tata Capital Growth Fund, is renowned for its innovative, cloud-based HCM suite and unwavering commitment to customer success. The partnership will see ZingHR deploy its full Hire to Rehire solution for MACL, encompassing Core HR, Payroll, Leave Management, Recruitment, Performance Management, Zing Social, Pulse Surveys, and ESG capabilities. This integration will automate the entire employee lifecycle, from hiring to rehiring, ensuring optimal business outcomes. ZingHR has carved a niche for itself in the aviation industry, partnering with renowned brands like Air India SATS, Frankfinn - Institute of Air Hostess Training, Travel Food Services (TFS), Kannur International Airport, Air Works and Saudi Ground Services. Their commitment to innovation is revolutionizing the HR landscape in the aviation sector, driving companies towards strategic growth. Guraisha Ismail, Deputy CHRO at Maldives Airport Company Ltd., expressed her satisfaction with the ZingHR platform, stating, "We found the ZingHR platform very user-friendly. They have been instrumental in transforming our people processes with new age practices. The platform is not only progressive, but the team behind it is also very hands-on and participative. They have encouraged us to rethink our existing processes, and by adapting them, we anticipate better business outcomes." Prasad Rajappan, CEO & Founder of ZingHR, commented on this significant collaboration, "Our primary focus is on achieving business outcomes through our targeted solutions. Our value proposition is enabling organizations to realize tangible success, from ESG goals to employee engagement and productivity." About ZingHR: Headquartered in Mumbai, ZingHR has more than 1000+ customers and 2 million+ active users worldwide. ZingHR offers a completely cloud-based, Hire to Rehire HCM solution delivered using future-ready technologies including Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, Machine and Deep Learning Algorithms. For information please visit www.zinghr.com SOURCE ZingHR KYODO NEWS - Sep 28, 2023 - 22:46 | All, Japan, 3/11 Fukushima The release of the second batch of treated radioactive water from the wrecked Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the ocean will commence on Oct. 5, the facility's operator said Thursday, in a move likely to draw further ire from China. Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc. plans to release approximately 7,800 tons of treated radioactive water, the same amount as the first discharge, into the sea over a period of around 17 days. Preparations will begin next Tuesday to check tritium levels when the treated water is diluted with sea water before release. Release of the first batch of treated water began on Aug. 24 amid concerns among local fishermen and strong opposition from China, but was completed on Sept. 11. Despite the water having a tritium concentration level below that of global safety standards, China has imposed a blanket ban on Japanese seafood imports. The government has been urging Beijing to lift the ban and engage in scientific evidence-based discussions with experts from both countries while seeking to assist the domestic fishery industry in broadening its export destinations beyond China. No abnormal tritium levels have been detected in seawater or fish samples collected from around the nuclear power plant so far. TEPCO and the government maintain that disposing of the treated water is a crucial step toward decommissioning the nuclear plant, which was severely damaged in the wake of a catastrophic earthquake and tsunami in 2011. As the volume of processed water, which had been used to cool melted nuclear fuel and has mixed with rain and groundwater, approached the plant's storage capacity limit, TEPCO decided to release approximately 31,200 tons in four rounds during the current fiscal year through March. Tritium contained in the discharged water is expected to total approximately 5 trillion becquerels, less than a quarter of the annual upper limit of 22 trillion becquerels, according to TEPCO. Related coverage: North Korea slams Japan over water discharge from Fukushima plant No tritium found in fish 1 month after Fukushima water release Pilibhit, Sep 28 : A 55-year-old farmer was mauled to death by an adult male tiger when he had entered the core forest area of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve (PTR) along with two others to collect wild mushrooms, a forest official said. The man's half-eaten body was found inside the jungle by a field forest team. PTR Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Naveen Khandelwal, said, "The incident happened in Puraini Deepnagar area under Madhotanda limits. The spot is almost two km inside the forest from the PTR boundary. Victim Totaram, a marginal farmer, went to the forest with Shri Krishna and Ram Bahadur. When Totaram disappeared, the other two fled." "Totaram's body was found with his right leg missing. He had deep bite marks on his face, neck and chest. The body has been sent for post-mortem. Pug marks later found at the spot indicate that an adult tiger may have attacked him," Khandelwal added. This is the third such attack -- all within a three-km radius area -- in about a month where 70 per cent of the victim's body was found eaten and the limbs were severed, the forest officer said. DFO Khandelwal added, "We are trying to trace the tiger and find out whether the same animal is involved in the recent attacks. We will tranquilise the animal to relocate it elsewhere. In the latest case, the victim may not get compensation as the death occurred inside the core forest. The two survivors will be booked under sections of the Wildlife Protection Act for trespassing into a protected area despite a ban on human entry." Local villagers claimed Totaram was harvesting paddy near the junction point of Mala and Mahof forest ranges of PTR, and the tiger might have dragged. "Another attack may happen if this male tiger is not traced soon," said a local villager. Baghdad, Sep 28 : More than 50 people were poisoned at a wedding in Iraq's northern province of Kirkuk due to spoiled food, media reported. The official Iraqi News Agency (INA) quoted the provincial health chief Ziyad Khalaf as saying on Wednesday that the incident occurred in the town of Hawija, west of Kirkuk, the capital city of the cognominal province, as quoted by Xinhua news agency report. Khalaf said the cases of poisoning ranged from mild to moderate, and all the patients received the necessary medical treatment in the hospital, according to the INA. The incident came a day after a deadly fire ripped through a wedding hall in a predominantly Christian town in Iraq's northern province of Nineveh, killing 114 people and injuring more than 200. Former Deputy Prime Minister of Georgia, Member of Board of Trustees of Nizami Ganjavi International Center Eka Tkeshelashvili has sent a letter of congratulation to President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. The letter reads: His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Your Excellency, Dear Mr. President, I take this opportunity to congratulate you on the historic achievement of reuniting your beautiful country. Azerbaijan suffered for far too long from illegal occupation, for far too long hundreds of thousands of citizens of Azerbaijan could not return to their homes. Reunification of Azerbaijan restores historic justice. It is remarkable that at a time of global unrest, due to your strategic leadership and commitment, Azerbaijan managed to set the precedent that sovereignty and territorial integrity can be defended, and that occupations and conflicts can be resolved bringing back trust in security and prosperity to communities that were deprived of their fundamental rights. It is particularly important to highlight that throughout all the years of hardship inflicted upon Azerbaijan due to occupation, you have always found it possible to extend assistance and stand by strategic partners and brotherly nations like Georgia and Ukraine at a time of crisis when your assistance was needed the most. It is an honor to observe how your vision of united Azerbaijan, ensuring security and economic prosperity to all its citizens, setting an example of successful multicultural and multiethnic society, and contributing to regional and global security is being with such success. I wish you success in all your endeavors, please accept assurances of highest respect and consideration, Eka Tkeshelashvili Deputy Prime Minister of Georgia (2010-2012) Member of Board of Trustees of the Nizami Ganjavi International Center KYODO NEWS - Sep 28, 2023 - 09:59 | All, Japan A Japanese district court on Wednesday ordered the state and others to pay a total of 350 million yen ($2.3 million) in damages to 128 unrecognized sufferers of the Minamata mercury-poisoning disease, making it the first such ruling among similar lawsuits filed nationwide over the country's redress measure. The Osaka District Court recognized that all of the plaintiffs in the lawsuit, who were not eligible for relief payments under a special law that went into force in 2009, were victims of Minamata disease, with their lawyers welcoming the judgment as a "complete victory." The disease, formally acknowledged by local health authorities in 1956, has been traced to mercury-tainted water dumped into the sea by a Chisso Corp. chemical plant in Minamata in Kumamoto Prefecture, southwestern Japan. Relief efforts have continued since the illness, which paralyzes the central nervous system and causes birth defects, was confirmed, but legal battles have continued for sufferers who have been left out of the measures. In the lawsuit filed with the Osaka District Court, the plaintiffs sought a total of 576 million yen in damages against the state, Kumamoto Prefecture and Chisso, asserting that judging the eligibility of the redress measures based on an individual's residential areas and age was unjust. In the ruling, Presiding Judge Yuki Tatsuno said that Minamata disease was the only plausible explanation for the symptoms experienced by the plaintiffs. The ruling also said it is possible to develop the disease even in areas and age groups not covered under the 2009 special measures law if individuals ingest methylmercury by heavily consuming polluted fishery products. The plaintiffs are aged 51 to 87 and hail from Osaka and 12 other prefectures. The lawsuit was originally filed in September 2014. Each plaintiff was seeking 4.5 million yen in compensation, claiming their symptoms, including limb numbness, were caused by eating seafood contaminated with the methylmercury wastewater from the Chisso plant when they were children. The defendants had argued that the plaintiffs did not meet the government's criteria for patient certification and had not received mercury exposure significant enough to cause Minamata disease. The court, which recognized the possibility of delayed onset of symptoms, ruled that the 20-year statute of limitations for compensation claims did not apply in this case as 20 years had not elapsed since the victims were diagnosed with the disease. The Osaka plaintiffs' legal team issued a statement saying that the ruling "harshly condemned the defendants for abandoning the patients." Environment Minister Shintaro Ito told reporters that the central government has not yet confirmed the details of the ruling but added that it will consider its response with other stakeholders. He stopped short of pledging to revise the special measures law, only saying that the government will "respond after examining" the matter. Similar lawsuits are under way in Tokyo, Niigata, and Kumamoto district courts. More than 1,700 plaintiffs are involved in the four lawsuits, but pundits say there could be more victims. The 2009 special measures law was created in the hope of bringing a final settlement in the dispute over relief measures to unrecognized patients struggling with certain symptoms. About 38,000 people each received 2.1 million yen in lump-sum payments under the law. But there have still been individuals who failed to meet the requirements, which included being born no later than November 1969. It was not until 1968 that the Japanese government recognized Minamata disease as caused by industrial pollution and stopped the water discharge. Registration for the relief measures also closed in July 2012, sparking criticism that many lost the chance to apply. One of the plaintiffs, Kazuyo Kurata, an 80-year-old who lives in the city of Osaka, said she felt vindicated for her efforts after hearing at the court the ruling, which awarded each plaintiff 2.75 million. Her application for relief was rejected in 2014 because the area where she used to live in Kumamoto Prefecture was not covered under the special law. She may have been able to receive compensation if she could prove that she had eaten a lot of fish, but she believes such a thing is "impossible unless you have kept receipts." "I am happy -- this sums up everything," she said about the ruling. Related coverage: Minamata disease patients oppose release of Fukushima water into sea "Please drink" treated Fukushima water: China asks Japan's minister Washington, Sep 28 : US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has said the Senate's proposed stopgap funding measure is unlikely to advance in the House, as a federal government shutdown looks increasingly likely. "I don't see the support in the House" for the Senate bill, McCarthy told reporters on Wednesday, referring to a short-term funding bill unveiled by the Senate on Tuesday afternoon. The Senate-proposed bill is expected to fund the government until November 17, the week before Thanksgiving, with the funding levels continuing at the same levels as before. It includes $6.1 billion of aid for Ukraine and nearly $6 billion in disaster relief funding, Xinhua news agency reported. A group of conservative Republicans in the House have opposed to aid for Ukraine, arguing that this needs to be among the deep spending cuts. House Republicans have also indicated they want a measure that includes border security provisions. "If they want to put focus on Ukraine and not focus on the southern border, I think their priorities are backwards," McCarthy said on Tuesday about the Senate measure. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on Wednesday lashed out at McCarthy for "constantly adhering to what the hard right wants," saying that the House Republicans have been pushing partisan bills. "Every path they've pursued to date will inevitably lead to a shutdown," Schumer said in the House. Schumer described the "continuing resolution" as a "bridge" to buy negotiators more time to reach an agreement on a longer-term funding bill. The Senate voted 77-19 to advance the bill, demonstrating rare bipartisanship at a time when Congress has become increasingly polarised. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and the White House have both endorsed the measure. Traditionally, the House moves first on spending and revenue bills but Senators feel the urgency to make the first move to keep the government funded, after McCarthy failed to gain support from his own party on a stopgap bill that would cut the budgets of most federal agencies by about eight per cent and tighten immigration restrictions. In an attempt to appease hard-line Republicans, who oppose any short-term funding extension and want Congress to negotiate all 12 annual spending bills individually, the House on Tuesday voted to advance four bills that would fund the departments of defense, homeland security, state and agriculture for another fiscal year. But such efforts won't be able to prevent a government shutdown. McCarthy has said he plans to have the House take up a stopgap funding bill on Friday, right ahead of the Saturday deadline, when government funding for fiscal year 2023 is set to expire. His measure would drop aid for Ukraine and include border security provisions. With lawmakers still in disagreement on how to fund the government, government shutdown odds grow. A shutdown usually temporarily stop all non-essential operations, and all but the government's most essential workers will be furloughed. While a short-term shutdown would have limited impact on the economy, its impact could be more significant if the stalemate continued for longer. Furloughed federal workers could reduce spending during the shutdown, dragging down consumption growth, while the government would also temporarily cut back on purchases of goods and services. Hamas to request municipal elections in Gaza for 1st time in 18 years. Image Source: IANS News Gaza, Sep 28 : The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) is planning to send an official request to the Palestinian Authority to hold municipal elections in Gaza for the first time in 18 years, a Palestinian official said. Hazem Qassem, a Hamas spokesman, said on Wednesday in a press statement that the group had agreed with all other Palestinian factions to send a message to the government in Ramallah demanding to hold municipal elections in Gaza. Qassem's remarks came after a meeting between Palestinian factions, including Hamas, and a delegation from the Ramallah-based Palestinian Central Elections Commission (CEC) to discuss the possibility of holding elections in Gaza, Xinhua news agency reported. "We agreed with all other factions that we have reached the appropriate level to hold local elections to allow our people to choose their legislative representatives," the spokesman said. Hisham Khalil, executive director of the CEC, told journalists that the commission had been informed of the full agreement of the Palestinian factions to hold local elections in Gaza as soon as possible. He said the delegation would convey the "positive attitude" to the Palestinian government in Ramallah to set a date soon for holding local elections in Gaza. In August, Hamas announced for the first time its efforts to hold municipal elections in Gaza, receiving no comment from the Palestinian government. Meanwhile, Munther al-Hayek, Fatah spokesman in Gaza, said in a statement that his party was ready to hold municipal elections in Gaza, just as those held in the West Bank. The last local elections in the Gaza Strip, home to more than 2.3 million people, were held in 2005. LISBON, Feb. 20, 2018 (Xinhua) -- United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres speaks during a press conference at Lisbon University in Lisbon, capital of Portugal, Feb. 19, 2018. Antonio Guterres, the Secretary General of the United Nations (UN. Image Source: IANS News United Nations, Sep 28 : UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has linked the devastating floods last year in Pakistan to "climate chaos" spurred by greenhouse gas emissions to make his case for aid to Islamabad. Speaking on Wednesday at a General Assembly briefing on floor relief for Islamabad, the UN chief said: "Pakistan needs and deserves massive support from the international community. I call on donors (and) on international financial institutions to make good on their commitments, and put the money they have promised the 4RF -- Resilience, Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction Framework for Pakistan -- on the table as soon as possible." He said that only 69 per cent of the $816 million pledged to the Floods Response Plan launched by the UN and Islamabad has been received. "Pakistan is still waiting for much of the funding, and delays are undermining people's efforts to rebuild their lives." Trying to link Pakistan's floods to climate change, he said: "The country is responsible for less than 1 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions but its people are 15 times more likely to die from climate-related impacts than people elsewhere." The UN chief went on to say that "climate chaos" is "beating that door down, from Libya to the Horn of Africa, China, Canada and beyond" which have been hit by floods recently "and Pakistan is a chronicle of climate chaos foretold". "Developed countries must deliver the $100 billion" to the Green Climate Fund for developing countries to deal with climate change "and double (climate) finance for adaptation and resilience". General Assembly President Dennis Francis referred to the floods in Morocco and Libya and said: "Both tragic events serve as a sobering reminder that climate change knows no bounds, and our promises to countries and communities affected by it must remain steadfast. "Considering climate-related disasters have almost doubled in the past two decades, we must make a determined effort to diminish disaster risk by focusing on prevention and preparedness." Pakistan's floods are "a stark reminder of the catastrophic consequences of unchecked climate change", he said. Francis added: "I call upon Member States and the UN system to maintain their unwavering support for Pakistan's recovery and reconstruction endeavours." (Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @arulouis) Meerut, Sep 28 : The Uttar Pradesh Police have filed a charge sheet against former BSP Minister Yaqub Qureshi, 17 years after he offered a Rs 51 crore for the "beheading" of a cartoonist from a Danish newspaper who had made caricatures of Prophet Muhammad in September 2005. In 2006, Meerut-based Sunil Bharala, then local district president of BJP, had filed a complaint which led to police filing the chargesheet following government approval. Qureshi, a meat baron and Minister in the Mayawati-led government, had recently been released on bail after orders from the high court. He was previously charged under Gangsters Act for running an illegal slaughterhouse in Meerut and carried a reward of Rs 25,000 on his head. Circle Officer (Kotwali) Amit Kumar Rai, said: "Qureshi was charged under IPC sections 153A (enmity between different groups), 153B (imputations, assertions prejudicial to national integration), 505 (public mischief), 108A (abetment in Indian of offences outside India), 116 (abetment of offence punishable with imprisonment), 120B (criminal conspiracy) and section 7 of the Religious Institutions Act, for the announcement he made." About the late chargesheet, Meerut SSP, Rohit Singh Sajwan, said: "A case diary was sent to the government for its clearance to file a chargesheet. Later, the case diary could not be traced." US soldier who crossed into N.Korea expressed wish to seek refuge: Pyongyang. Image Source: IANS News Washington/Seoul, Sep 28 : Pvt. Travis King, an American soldier who crossed the inter-Korean border into North Korea in July, is in US custody after his release by the reclusive nation, capping an intense diplomatic operation facilitated by Sweden and China, senior administration officials in Washington have confirmed. Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, the officials said Pvt. King has been transferred out of North Korea across the border with China, and that he appears to be "in good health and good spirits" ahead of his return home, reports Yonhap News Agency. The announcement on his release came shortly after the North's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Pyongyang decided to "expel" him following a probe, during which the outlet said he confessed to having "illegally intruded" into the North's territory. King crossed the military demarcation line separating Korea during a tour to the Joint Security Area in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) on July 18 -- a rare unauthorized trip that led to his detention in the North. "We are very pleased to announce this morning... the US government has successfully facilitated Pvt. Travis King's departure from the DPRK," a senior official said. DPRK stands for the North's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. "We are grateful to the Swedish government for its diplomatic role in serving as the protecting power for the US in the DPRK and to the government of the People's Republic of China for its assistance in facilitating the safe transit of Pvt. King," the official added. Having left the North, King arrived in the Chinese border city of Dandong and flew to another Chinese city, Shenyang, and then to Osan Air Base in South Korea, where he was transferred to the Department of Defense, before departing for the US, according to the Department of State. Hours earlier, KCNA said North Korean authorities conducted an investigation, where he said he had "ill feelings" about the US military and society. "Travis King confessed that he illegally intruded into the territory of the DPRK as he harbored ill feeling against inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination within the US army and was disillusioned about the unequal US society," KCNA said in its report. "The relevant organ of the DPRK decided to expel Travis King." Earlier this month, the US learned via Sweden that the North wanted to release King, another administration official said, calling Sweden as the "primary interlocutor" that helped King in being released. China helped facilitate King's safe transit across the border and played a "very constructive role", but not a mediating role, according to the officials. Asked whether there were any concessions to the North in return for King's release, the first official said: "None." "Our focus right now is on Pvt. King's health and ensuring that he receives all appropriate support before reuniting with his family," the official said. Pyongyang's decision to set King free "without concessions" raised cautious hopes for the resumption of diplomacy as nuclear talks between Washington and Pyongyang have been stalled since 2019 following the no-deal summit in Hanoi in February that year. The officials reiterated Washington's willingness to reengage with Pyongyang. "The US government remains very open to the possibility of diplomacy with the DPRK...This incident to our minds demonstrate that keeping lines of communication open even when ties are strained is a really important thing to do and can deliver results," the official said. "We again stand by a ready for any further diplomacy that might be possible." Asked to explain the next procedures facing King, a third official highlighted the government's priority on the soldiers' "reintegration". "Our focus right now is caring for him and his family and we'll work through all those administrative status questions following completion of his reintegration," the official said. Later in the day, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan issued a statement extending his appreciation to Sweden and China for their diplomatic efforts. Pentagon press secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder also released a similar statement on King's release. The North first confirmed King's detention on August 16 and claimed the US soldier expressed willingness to seek refuge in the North or a third country. Shortly after the North's first confirmation of King's detention, the US Department of Defense said the alleged comments by King could not be verified. King faced legal trouble during his service in South Korea. He was sentenced to labor in a South Korean prison workshop from May 24 to July 10 after failing to pay a fine for damaging a police patrol car last year. King had been set to return to the US on July 17, where he would have faced additional disciplinary action, however, he managed to evade boarding his flight at Incheon International Airport and was able to join a JSA tour the next day which provided him with the opportunity to cross the DMZ. Lucknow, Sep 28 : Residents of Lucknow that records an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 140 and more, are passively smoking 7-8 cigarettes a day. Lucknow, at least during the peak winter period, is one of the nine such cities in Uttar Pradesh. These were a few of the disturbing facts that came to the fore during a daylong workshop on air pollution and climate change organised by the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) and the Lung Care Foundation (LCF) on Wednesday. Titled Solutions for Health, Air Pollution, and Environment in Uttar Pradesh (SHAPE-UP), the workshop urged people to change their lifestyle and spoke of collective efforts to mitigate the challenges of climate change. "Of all the patients suffering from lung infection that I used to treat in the 1980s, about 85 per cent were smokers. But now, over 50 per cent of my patients are non-smokers but have lungs resembling that of a smoker who smokes 7-8 cigarettes a day," said LCF founder and trustee Dr Arvind Kumar. Minister of state (independent), environment and climate change, Arun Kumar Saxena, suggested that reliance on solar energy and LPG gas for cooking instead of wood or stubble can bring a significant change. Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), environment, forest and climate change Manoj Singh said climate change was an issue of inter-generational justice. "While physics and chemistry exist across our solar system, biological life is only on Earth. It is our collective responsibility to see what we are leaving behind for the next generation," Singh said. Another issue that came to the fore was emissions from the industries and the need to make manufacturing among the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) greener. "Don't penalise entrepreneurs. Help them with technological support by promoting biodiesel or other technology. Ensure that we do not rely on diesel generators by providing seamless power supply," said IIA president Neeraj Singhal. Dr Suryakant, professor and head of the department, respiratory medicine, King George's Medical University (KGMU), said, "Only 30 per cent of the smoke goes into the body of a smoker while 70 per cent of the smoke goes into the passive smoker or into the environment." "UP is facing an air pollution challenge primarily due to seven root causes, including traffic, construction, smoking, biomass fuel, factories, which are causing diseases like asthma bronchitis, lung cancer among others," the doctor said, adding that children are most affected by it because of their height, as dust remained suspended at a lower level the most. The event called upon people to adopt simple measures like quitting smoking, burning wood for cooking or other purposes and planting samplings. "Civil society plays a pivotal role in bringing long term behavioural change. Thus, their role becomes imperative in taking this message to the people and stress upon lifestyle changes that they can incorporate to mitigate challenges of climate change," said former director general at CRPF and patron at LCF A.P. Maheshwari. Lucknow, Sep 28 : A government primary school teacher in Lucknow has been suspended after a Class I girl student was left locked inside her classroom after regular school hours. The incident happenedon Wednesday at the school in the Sisandi area of Mohanlalganj block in Lucknow. Basic Shiksha Adhikari (BSA) Arun Kumar said the teacher Pramila Awasthi has been suspended with immediate effect for not discharging her duties, negligence in the safety of children in the school and not keeping a count of students before leaving the school. He said an inquiry has also been ordered and the officer in-charge has been directed to provide the investigation report to the BSA within 15 days. He said during her suspension period she will remain attached to the office of Divisional Education Officer, Mohanlalganj, Lucknow while a charge sheet will be issued separately. Her conduct was completely contrary to the dignity of teachers and this incident has tarnished the image of the Basic Education Department, he added. Mahak, a Class 1 student, was sleeping in her class when school got over. Teachers and para teachers did not notice her and locked the school gate and went home. She woke up to the beating of drums when locals were taking out procession for the immersion of Ganesh idol. The girl ran towards the window and cried for help. Passersby heard the child crying and reached the school and called the para teacher to open the gate. "Locals spotted the girl and informed the shiksha mitra (para teacher) who came and opened the lock after which the girl reached home. She remained inside for at least 15 minutes and reached home by 2.30 p.m. The school got over at 2 p.m," said Manish Kumar Singh, Block education officer of Mohanlalganj area. This is not the first time that an incident like this has happened in a government school. In July 2022, ten teachers, including a headmaster of a government primary school in Hathras district were suspended as they left for home leaving a Class 2 student, who was sleeping, locked inside the classroom after the school got over. Taipei, Sep 28 : In an effort to bolster its defences against a possible Chinese attack, Taiwan on Thursday unveiled ts first domestically-made submarine which will be delivered to the navy by the end of 2024. The $1.54 billion diesel-electric powered submarine named 'Haikun' -- a mythical massive fish that can also fly which appears in classic Chinese literature -- was launched during a ceremony presided over by President Tsai Ing-wen in the port city of Kaohsiung, reports the BBC. According to military officials, the submarine will now undergo several tests, while another one is currently in production. The Haikun uses a combat system by American defence company Lockheed Martin and will carry US-made missiles. Taiwan aims to eventually operate a fleet of 10 submarines -- including two older Dutch-made boats -- and equip them with missiles, the BBC reported. Admiral Huang Shu-kuang, head of Taiwan's domestic submarine programme, told reporters last week that the goal of designing and building its own submarine was to fend off any attempt from China to encircle Taiwan for an invasion or impose a naval blockade. He also said that it would also buy time until US and Japan forces arrive to aid Taiwan's defence. Adm Huang further said that he had personally approached military contacts in the US, Japan, South Korea and India for help but did not specify which country eventually agreed. The submarine's launch came a day after China confirmed it had been conducting military drills this month to "resolutely combat the arrogance of Taiwan independence separatist forces". In recent weeks, China has ramped up its warship presence in the Taiwan Strait and military jet incursions into airspace around the island, the BBC reported. US military and intelligence officials have given varying timelines for a possible Chinese invasion. Chennai, Sep 28 : PMK president and Rajya Sabha MP Anbumani Ramadoss has called for the member states of United Nations Human Rights Commission (UNHRC) to implement the high commissioners' call for justice against the Sri Lankan government for the mass atrocity crimes against the Tamil population. The former Union minister was in Geneva on Wednesday at the 54thsession of the UNHRC. He stressed on the importance of bringing Sri Lanka before the International Criminal Courts,the International Court of Justice and other international mechanisms through the General Assembly. Anbumani Ramadoss in his speech said, "Tens of thousands have died and many continue to be oppressed. We urge member states to implement the High Commissioners' call for justice for the first mass atrocity crimes of the 21stcentury, committed by the Sri Lankan government against the Tamil population." He said that the evidence compiled by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner (OHCHR) Sri Lanka Accountability Project (SLAP) should be used and pursued in bringing justice for the Tamils massacred during the civil war in the island nation. The PMK leader also called upon the UNHCR member states to prevent the demographic changes in areas of historic Tamil inhabitation through Sinhalisation as also destruction of Hindu temples. It may be noted that PMK is a political party of the powerful Vanniyar community which has immense clout in several pockets of Tamil Nadu and had a vote share of 3.69 per cent in the 2021 Assembly elections. New York, Sep 28 : Two Indian-American Cisco engineers, who were sued for caste discrimination in California, have joined a lawsuit filed by a Hindu advocacy group, alleging that the state's Civil Rights Department (CRD) violated several constitutional rights of Hindus and Indian-Americans. After years of litigation, the caste discrimination case against Sundar Iyer and Ramana Kompella was voluntarily dismissed by the CRD in April this year. According to an amended complaint filed by the Hindu American Foundation (HAF), CRD violated constitutional rights of several Hindus and Indian Americans due to the manner in which it pursued its case alleging caste discrimination at Cisco Systems. It accuses CRD of wrongly asserting that caste system and caste-based discrimination are integral to Hindu teachings and practices. In addition to Kompella and Iyer, long-time California resident and interfaith leader, Dilip Amin, three Indian-origin Hindu tech workers, and others have also joined the suit, claiming direct harm by the CRD's unconstitutional and inaccurate statements about Hinduism and Indians. The updated complaint was filed in federal court last week after the judge granted HAF 21 days to amend its complaint to avoid dismissal. "The court asked for a level of specificity not normally required in a preliminary complaint," Samir Kalra, HAF's Managing Director, said in a statement. "But we're happy to have had the chance to incorporate that specificity as well as add a number of individual plaintiffs who had stepped forward with shared concerns with the CRD's overreach since the time of our original filing." The amended complaint states that "California defames Hinduism by doing what the US Constitution says it cannot, assert a government right to resolve questions of religious doctrine". It says that preventing the government from establishing religious doctrines or interfering in religious practices is as old a principle as the Republic itself. "California law and regulations provide no definition or workable method to determine anyone's caste other than its assumption that Hindus of South Asian, in particular Indian, descent must all necessarily identify as part of a specific caste and must engage in discrimination based on caste as an inherent or mandated part of their religious beliefs and practices," the complaint notes further. Meanwhile, several Hindu-Americans in California have been urging Governor Gavin Newsom to veto an anti-caste discrimination bill, recently passed by the State Assembly. They say that the SB 403 bill -- introduced by Senator Aisha Wahab in March -- is discriminatory and targets Hindus. If signed into law by Newsom, California will become the first state in the US and the first jurisdiction outside India to outlaw discrimination based on caste. --IANS mi/ksk KYODO NEWS - Sep 28, 2023 - 21:14 | World, All An American soldier who crossed the heavily armed border into North Korea from South Korea in July arrived back in the United States on Thursday after being expelled by Pyongyang, CNN reported. A U.S. military flight carrying Travis King, a private second class in the Army, landed at a base in Texas in the early hours of Thursday, the report said, quoting a Defense Department official. The United States secured the return of King on Wednesday. North Korea announced the same day it had expelled the soldier after he admitted to "illegally" entering its territory. He was transferred to Osan Air Base in South Korea through China with the help of Sweden, which has long served as the protecting power for the United States in North Korea. Washington and Pyongyang do not have diplomatic relations. U.S. President Joe Biden's top national security aide Jake Sullivan issued a statement thanking China for its assistance in facilitating the transit of King and Sweden for its diplomatic role. On Thursday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a press conference in Beijing that China provided "necessary assistance in a humanitarian spirit" to meet requests by North Korea and the United States. King had been convicted of assault in South Korea and was due to face disciplinary action by the U.S. military. On July 18, he dashed across the border into North Korea without authorization after joining a civilian tour to the Joint Security Area in the Demilitarized Zone dividing the two Koreas. Related coverage: U.S. secures return of soldier who dashed into North Korea in mid-July North Korea says U.S. soldier who crossed border is seeking refuge U.S. soldier crosses inter-Korean border into N. Korea Chitradurga : , Sep 28 (IANS) The Chitradurga district administration is mulling action against villagers of N. Devarahalli for socially boycotting a deaf and dumb couple, along with their month-old baby, over inter-caste marriage, sources said here on Thursday. As per the sources, the woman and her baby have been taken to the Womenas Rehabilitation centre. The authorities are contemplating action against the accused. Savithramma, a resident of N.Devarahalli and Manikatha, from Andhra Pradesh, both deaf and mute fell in love and got married three years ago. She had come to her house for delivery and gave birth to a child a month ago. However, the leaders of the village took severe objection to it and boycotted her from the village for marrying a person belonging to a different caste. Manikantha belongs to the Reddy community while Savithramma hailed from Granda Jogi caste. Both worked at private companies in Bengaluru and developed a liking for each other and got married in 2021. When the newly wedded couple came to the village, the leaders from the Savithrammaas community raised objections to inter-caste marriage. They had imposed a fine of Rs 30,000 on the girl's parents and sent out the couple from the village. The couple had returned to Bengaluru. The community leaders again picked up a fight with the parents of the Savithramma for letting her inside the house for delivery. They had threatened that if Savithramma and husband were not sent out of their house with their one-month-old baby, they would face permanent boycott by the community. The couple had informed about the development to the staff of Deaf and Dumb school in Challakere. They had taken the couple to the Women Rehabilitation Centre and informed Tehsildar about the incident. The matter was also brought to the notice of the Women and Child Welfare department. Tehsildar Rahan Pasha rushed to the rehabilitation centre and assured the couple of all the support from the government. The social activists have demanded action against the community leaders. Sources said that the administration is contemplating lodge a police complaint and take up an awareness campaign in the village over the incident. Patna, Sep 28 : Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was allegedy angered by a display board at a school library in Banka district because it was written in English. The incident occurred on Wednesday while the Chief Minister was visiting the district to inaugurate state government projects. When he saw the board of the digital library at the RMK High School written in English, he allegedly got angry at the officers. "When we were in engineering, we used to study in English and also give examinations in English. I always say use Hindi. When I was a Union Minister, I started signing in Hindi. Please understand and change the board immediately," Kumar said while directing the officers. He also ordered the person who wrote the display board to be brought up to him. "You have written the board in English and inaugurated it for me. This is absolutely wrong. The British are not ruling here," Nitish Kumar added. HP, Google join hands to manufacture Chromebooks in India from Oct 2. Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, Sep 28 : In a fillip to the 'Make in India' initiative, PC and printer major HP on Thursday announced a collaboration with Google to manufacture its Chromebooks in India. The Chromebook devices will be manufactured at the Flex Facility near Chennai, where HP has been producing a range of laptops and desktops since August 2020. The production of HP Chromebooks is starting from October 2, and will cater to the demand for affordable PCs in India mainly from the education sector, the company said in a statement. "Manufacturing Chromebook laptops in India will allow Indian students to get easy access to affordable PCs. By further expanding our manufacturing operations, we continue to support the 'Make in India' initiative of the government," said Vickram Bedi, Senior Director-Personal Systems, HP India. Chromebooks are leading devices in K-12 education, helping over 50 million students and teachers across the world. Equipped with ChromeOS, these devices have built-in accessibility and security features to deepen classroom connections and keep user information safe. "The local production of Chromebooks with HP marks an important step in our efforts to continue supporting the digital transformation of education in India," said Bani Dhawan, Head of Education-South Asia, Google. From December 2021, HP started manufacturing a wide range of laptops in India, including HP EliteBooks, HP ProBooks, and HP G8 series notebooks. HP also expanded its portfolio of locally manufactured commercial desktops by adding various models of desktop mini towers (MT), mini desktops (DM), small form factor (SFF) desktops, and a range of All-in-One PCs. These products include both Intel and AMD processor options and cater to a wide range of customer segments. Washington, Sep 28 : At the second Republican presidential debate, Indian-origin candidates Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy did not mince words when it came to attacking each other, with the former South Carolina Governor telling the tech entrepreneur that "every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber". The debate on Wednesday night took place at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, and was hosted by the Fox Business Network and Univision. Besides Haley and Ramaswamy, the other participating candidates were Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, former Vice President Mike Pence, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum. While former President Donald Trump skipped the debate this time as well, former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, who appeared in the first Republican presidential primary debate on August 23, did not meet the heightened polling and fundraising standards for Wednesday's event. The 38-year-old Ramaswamy irked Haley, 51, by defending his collaboration on Chinese short-video-making app TikTok with influencer Jake Paul, reports The New York Post. "There's exactly one person in the Republican Party which talks a big game about reaching young people, and that's me," the 38-year-old Indian-origin boasted. When it was her turn, Haley fired back and said: "TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media assets that we could have... Honestly, every time I hear you I feel a little bit dumber." She also touched on the national security concerns surrounding TikTok and referenced its historical ties to the Chinese Community Party. In his reply, Ramaswamy said: "We will be better served as a Republican Party if we're not sitting here hurling personal insults and actually have a legitimate debate about policy." Even during the first Republican presidential primary debate on August 23, Haley had criticised Ramaswamy taking aim at his foreign policy views. Meanwhile, some of the other participating candidates also took aim at the tech entreprenuer, who is the youngest among them all, reports The New York Post. Senator Scott said: "Vivek just said we were all good people, and I appreciate that. Because last debate, he said we were all bought and paid for. I thought about that for a little while. "I can't imagine how you could say that, knowing that you are just in business with the Chinese Communist Party and the same people that funded Hunter Biden millions of dollars was a partner of yours as well." Former Vice President Pence also slammed Ramaswamy's resistance to military aid to war-torn Ukraine. Ramaswamy is currently polling in fourth place in the latest RealClearPolitics aggregate of the 2024 Republican pack. Kolkata, Sep 28 : Around 150 students from a residential school at Jharia in Jharkhand's Pakur district, which is in close proximity to the Bengal-Bihar borders, were admitted to a local hospital in West Bengal's Birbhum district. The students were admitted on Wednesday night as they reportedly complained about feeling uneasy after having the dinner. All the school kids, who were rushed to the Rampurhat Government Medical College & Hospital at Rampurhat in Birbhum district of West Bengal, were reportedly completely out of danger. The hospital authorities feel that the sickness was more of panic rather than actually food poisoning. In fact the school authorities have communicated to the hospital authorities that a couple of students complained of stomach uneasiness and vomiting tendency after having the dinner. Then one of the students claimed to have spotted a lizard limb in one of the dinner dishes and following that claim some other students made the similar complaint of stomach uneasiness and vomiting tendency. Considering that lizard limbs are highly poisonous and can result in major hazards, the school authorities did not want to take a risk. They immediately contacted the authorities Rampurhat Government Medical College & Hospital,as it is closest to the residential school and arranged the admission of all 150 students to the emergency ward of the hospital. However, the students who mainly complained about stomach uneasiness and vomiting tendency after dinner, have been kept under watch till Thursday morning. New Delhi, Sep 28 : Vodafone Idea needs a sizable fund-raising at the earliest to increase capex to restrict the loss of more subscribers, says a report by Emkay Global Financial Services. VILas subscriber base declined for the 28th month in a row, down by 1.3 million. Subscriber losses persisted in Jul-23, with the telco losing another 1.3mn subscribers. The VLR base declined by 0.4mn (moderation from 2.5 mn dip in Jun-23), as the VLR proportion improved to 88.6 per cent in Jul-23 from 88.3 per cent in Jul-23. This is the 16th consecutive month of the VLR subscriber-base decline. VIL lost VLR subscribers in 14 of the 22 circles MoM in July. The dip in VLR base was led by UP (E) and Bihar, whereas Maharashtra reported the highest increase in the VLR base, the report said. VILas mobile broadband (MBB) subs declined by 0.6 mn in Jula23 - declining for the third time in the last 6 months, says a report by JM Financial Institutional Securities. VILas MBB subs declined by 0.6mn in Jula23, declining for the third time in the last 6 months (with this, Jana22-Jula23 cumulatively witnessed only 2.1mn rise in MBB subs). Further, its active subs base declined by 0.4mn in Jula23, continuing the declining trend over the past many months due to churn in the lower ARPU segments given the entry level prepaid tariffs undertaken in Jula21 and Nova21 and recently as well. Notwithstanding the moratoriums, VIL needs to close the fund-raise exercise quickly for a meaningful increase in capex to boost upgrade of customers to MBB, the report said. (Sanjeev Sharma can be reached at Sanjeev.s@ians.in) Seoul, Sep 28 : North Korea has stipulated the policy of strengthening its nuclear force in the constitution at a key parliamentary meeting, as leader Kim Jong-un said trilateral security cooperation between South Korea, the US, and Japan poses "the worst actual threat", state media reported on Thursday. The decision was made at the ninth session of the 14th Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) held on Tuesday and Wednesday, with Kim's attendance, according to the North's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). At the session, the North unanimously decided to "supplement Article 58 of Chapter 4 of the Socialist Constitution" to ensure the country's right to existence and development, deter war and protect regional and global peace by rapidly developing nuclear weapons to a higher level, Kim said. At an SPA meeting in September last year, North Korea enacted a new nuclear law authorizing the preemptive use of nuclear arms, calling its status of a nuclear state "irreversible", reports Yonhap News Agency. Kim also stressed the need to "exponentially" bolster the country's nuclear arsenal and diversify its nuclear strike capability as well as deployment with different branches and units of the armed forces. He also vowed to strengthen solidarity with countries standing against the US. His message came as North Korea has been seeking to bolster its ties with China and Russia vis-a-vis the strengthening of security cooperation among Seoul, Washington and Tokyo. Earlier this month, Kim also traveled to Russia on his armored train for talks with Vladimir Putin amid concerns about a possible arms deal between the two nations. Kochi, Sep 28 : The Kerala High Court quashed proceedings against a man accused of having committed offences under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 on the ground that the victim and accused were now married. aThey are now living together as husband and wife. Therefore, no useful purpose will be served by continuing with the prosecution against the petitioner," read the High Courtas order. The petitioner in the case a" the accused, was alleged to have sexually assaulted the minor while she was studying in Plus Two class, by picking her up from her school in his car and touching her inappropriately. Apart from that, the allegation was that subsequently, on the girl becoming a major, the petitioner had raped her. However, the counsel for the petitioner pointed out to the court that the petitioner (accused) and the victim got married in June 2023, and were now living together as husband and wife. The court was thus of the considered opinion that this was a fit case wherein under its jurisdiction it can quash the proceedings against the petitioner, since no useful purpose would be served by continuing with it and thus quashed the proceedings. Jaipur, Sep 28 : Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat made a scathing attack on Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot after he questioned frequent visits of Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankar to Rajasthan. If things were in Ashok Gehlotas control, he would have banned the visit of Union ministers, he added. On Wednesday, when Chief Minister Gehlot raised questions on the Vice-President's frequent visits to Rajasthan, Shekhawat said that Ashok Gehlot ji is scared of defeat. He is also upset by the arrival of the Vice-President in the state. He has severed almost all relations with the Centre. Had it been in his control, he would have banned the visit of Union Ministers to the state. Raising questions over frequent visits of Vice-President Dhankhar to Rajasthan, Gehlot had said, "First the Prime Minister came and now the Vice-President is doing up-downs. Today, the Vice-President will visit five places." "Be it the Governor or the Vice-President, we respect them. What will people think if you come repeatedly? These are constitutional institutions. They should be respected irrespective of the government in power. This time the Prime Minister made it known that no one will come in the protocol, neither officers, nor ministers. "When Shekhawat Saheb became the Vice-President, he had said that Rajasthan is my home. No one will come here in protocol," he said. Chief Minister Gehlot was addressing the public dialogue programme for Mission 2030 at Birla Auditorium in Jaipur on Wednesday. He said, "Ministers are coming one after the other. Anyway, the ministers have no work. These people created a new system. The ministers are not working and an RSS person has been made to sit and he rules everything. The public will give a befitting reply to them in the upcoming polls." Lawyers ask Indians seeking asylum in UK to pretend as 'tortured' Khalistanis, gays: Report. Image Source: IANS News Rome, Sep 28 : Italy's Council of Ministers has approved a new policy to strengthen its immigration regulation, potentially removing special age-related protections for young asylum seekers. The move is the latest in a series of reforms aimed at curbing the increasing influx of migrants arriving in Europe -- most of them to Italy's shores, reports Xinhua news agency. Under the new policy, authorities will be allowed to assess the age of unaccompanied new arrivals. If these individuals are calculated over the age of 16, they may be placed in adult detention centers that are already filled beyond capacity. Prior to this change, children arriving in Italy without a guardian were afforded special protections under a European Union (EU) policy enacted six years ago. Additionally, this initiative empowers authorities to deport foreigners deemed to pose a risk to public order or national security. Last week, the government granted border officials the authority to detain individuals in detention centers for up to 18 months. According to data from the International Organization for Migration, nearly 200,000 migrants arrived in the EU by land and sea so far this year. Of these arrivals, around two-thirds have landed in Italy. KYODO NEWS - Sep 28, 2023 - 14:38 | All, World, Japan Japan's transport safety authority concluded Thursday a cargo ship ran aground and spilled oil off Mauritius in 2020 because it altered its planned route and approached the coast in order to pick up mobile phone signals. The Japan Transport Safety Board also said that COVID-19 travel restrictions and border closures may have slowed containment efforts and increased the damage caused by the massive oil spill. The bulk carrier Wakashio, chartered by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd. and owned by Nagashiki Shipping Co. in Okayama Prefecture, western Japan, spilled about 1,000 tons of fuel oil into a pristine marine environment in the Indian Ocean. The ship with 20 people aboard was heading to a Brazilian port. No one died in the accident off the southeastern coast of Mauritius. The board's three-year investigation also found that safety awareness among crew members was low as the freighter had repeatedly approached close to coastlines to connect to mobile phone networks in the past as well. According to the report, the captain of the 101,932-ton vessel ordered it to divert from its planned route and approach the coast without obtaining marine charts of the area, leading to the grounding of the ship on the evening of July 25, 2020. Marine charts would have alerted the ship to crucial information such as that the water depth along the coastline in the area was shallower than 20 meters. The route was changed two days before the grounding incident, with the distance from the coast of Mauritius altered from 22 nautical miles to 5 nautical miles. On the day of the accident, the ship tried to further reduce the distance from the coast from 5 nautical miles to 2 nautical miles, according to the report. The Indian captain and his first officer, a Sri Lankan national, were focused on signal receptions for their smartphones, the safety board's report said. The captain also had two glasses of whisky and water at the birthday party of a crew member before the accident. Removal of the wreck of the Wakashio, which broke into two, by a salvage team was delayed due to weather conditions and travel restrictions associated with COVID-19. The Japanese government sent disaster relief teams to help with the removal of the oil and assess the environmental damage. Related coverage: Captain of Japan-owned ship that leaked oil off Mauritius sentenced Japan extends 30 bil. yen in loans to Mauritius after oil spill Removal of spilled oil along Mauritius coastline mostly completed Nanded, Sep 28 : The sleepy pilgrim town of Nanded in Maharashtra witnessed some thrills when a notorious absconder criminal was shot and caught by the police after a Bollywood-style case, officials said here on Thursday. The incident happened around 5 p.m. on Wednesday near the crowded Canal Road area, a bustling mall and also a school. The Nanded Police got a tip-off that a fugitive history-sheeter, Avej alias Abu Shooter and some accomplices were likely to visit the mall. A police team was rustled up and lay in wait for Avej and Deepak Bhokre who arrived there soon afterwards. Sensing something amiss, the duo attempted to sneak out of there but were accosted by a cop and Avej whipped out a dagger and attacked him before running again. Avej ran and entered the school premises where he attempted to hijack a scooter parked there, but the security guard tried to overpower him and the desperado again took off. Seeing this, Crime Branch Sub-Inspector Pandurang Mane took a careful aim and shot Avej on his thigh and he fell. As other cops rushed and the gunshot created chaos in the area, Bhokare took advantage and fled from there. Despite the bullet injury, Avej made attempts to run off but was caught by the cops and they called for an ambulance. He was rushed to the SB Chavan Hospital in Vishnupuri for treatment, said a police spokesperson. After the operation, Nanded Superintendent of Police Shrikrushna Kokate told the local media that Avej was wanted for several years and had at least five serious offences registered against him in different police stations in the district. The offences include threats, extortion, attempts to murder, etc, and he was also arrested earlier under the MCOCA, but was enlarged on bail and was absconding for over two years. Besides, at least one police official and a staffer were also injured in Avejas dagger attack and they have been hospitalised, and their condition was described as astablea by Kokate. The situation in the district, renowned for the Takhat Sachkhand Shri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib Gurudwara -- one of the Five Sikh Takhats, and a major pilgrimage centre -- is now normal after the incident. Jaipur, Sep 28 : The BJP will contest the Assembly polls in Rajasthan on Lotus and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's face, sources said on Thursday. The decision was taken in a meeting called in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP National President JP Nadda and party National General Secretary (Organisation) BL Santosh on Wednesday night which continued till 2 a.m. In the meeting, Shah and Nadda expressed disappointment over various issues in the party's Rajasthan unit, reports of factionalism and poor crowd in BJP Parivartan Yatras. They discussed why the crowd did not gather in the Parivartan Yatras at many places and questioned if the factionalism of the leaders was the reason behind it. Those present in the meeting included Union Ministers Arjun Ram Meghwal, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Kailash Chaudhary, former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, state president CP Joshi, Leader of Opposition Rajendra Rathore, State Election in-charge Pralhad Joshi, election in-charge Arun Singh, state co-election In-charge Vijaya Rahatkar, Kuldeep Bishnoi, Deputy Leader of Opposition Satish Poonia and MP Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore. Rathore was the first to leave the meeting followed by Deputy Leader of Opposition Satish Poonia, but both the leaders did not talk to the media. The meeting continued till late even after these leaders left the meeting. When asked whether MPs would contest elections, Shekhawat said, it is for the party leadership to decide. BJP state president Joshi said that the upcoming programmes of the party were discussed. "The Central Election Committee will decide whether the formula for making MPs contest elections is applicable in Rajasthan or not," CP Joshi said. He said that no senior leader of the party is being ignored, everyone is moving together. BJP's election in-charge Pralhad Joshi said, "We have discussed many topics. The basis of selection of candidates has been discussed. The programmes have been fixed till the announcement of elections. The decision of MPs contesting elections will be considered further." Sources said that Raje had plans to organise a few major programmes. The Rajput community has called a mega gathering in the first week of October where Raje is the chief guest. Also in Hadoti, a few other programmes have been organised. The veterans in the party held discussions on how the party should go out with a united face without showing signs of factions, said the sources. Lucknow, Sep 28 : As many as 22,209 private CCTV cameras in Lucknow have been linked with the control room of Lucknow Police under 'Operation Trinetra'. The next time a crime is committed in Lucknow, cops will not waste time in finding which CCTVs are active because they can rely on private CCTV cameras too. Deputy commissioner of police, central zone, Aparna Rajat Kaushik, said that "Operation Trinetra aims to cover the entire city with cameras to increase security. "As of now, we have covered as many as 9,459 locations, she said, adding that "In addition to 238 CCTV cameras under the Integrated Traffic Management System (ITMS) in the city, as many as 22,209 cameras installed by business persons or private individuals in their shops and homes have also been linked with the Lucknow Police surveillance set up." The DCP further said that the entire city was mapped out and the existing cameras were reoriented by facing them towards the public space. The latitude and longitude of these cameras were also entered into the database, so that if an incident occurs, these cameras may be accessed promptly and prove useful in the inquiry. "Apart from the urban areas, 5,370 cameras were also mapped in rural areas of the city. The entry and the exit point of the villages were taken into it," she added. In the past, police have been successful in solving many cases of loot and murder with the help of cameras. "We aim to bring all important crossings of the city under the Trinetra," she said. Jaipur, Sep 28 : The scheduled meeting of Union Minister Amit Shah and BJP National President JP Nadda with Sangh officials scheduled on Thursday was cancelled. Sources said that the meeting and other programmes scheduled for both the leaders with Sangh officials were cancelled suddenly. Both the leaders were leaving for Delhi at the time of filing of this report. Sources said that there is talk that senior Sangh campaigner Prakash Chand may be given a bigger responsibility for the forthcoming elections. There was a possibility of both the leaders talking to the local union officials regarding this, but the program has been cancelled. There was no reason given for the cancellation of the meeting at the last minute. Party workers said that Prakash and Vasundhara Raje have been at odds for the last many months. Prakash was also annoyed when former BJP president Satish Poonia was removed from his position and replaced by CP Joshi. Many senior leaders had camped in Jaipur during midnight meeting at that time and Poonia was later given the position of Deputy Leader of Opposition. New Delhi, Sep 28 : The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a supplementary charge sheet against four accused, including a "designated terrorist", in the Thane fake currency case. The four have been identified as Javed Patel alias Javed Chikna (the designated terrorist), Riyaz Shikilkar, Fayaaz Shikilkar and Nasir Chaudhari, all residents of Mumbai. Fayaaz Shikilkar has also been charged under the Arms Act. In April last yeat, the Thane police had chargesheeted three other accused in the which was originally registered following the seizure of 149 counterfeit notes of Rs. 2,000 from Riyaz Shikilkar. Subsequently, the NIA took over the case and, after investigations, arrested Fayaaz Shikilkar in May this year for possession of illegal arms. Investigations also revealed that he was in contact with Javed Patel through WhatsApp, and had conspired to carry out unlawful activities in India. He had also received funds sent by Javed Patel through his associate aBhaia. Javed Patel, a wanted accused, had committed acts of terror through his associates by possessing and circulating fake Indian currency notes (FICNs) with the aim of damaging the monetary stability of India, according to the NIA charge sheet. NIA is continuing its investigations in the case. New Delhi, Sep 28 : The Delhi High Court has dismissed an Indian entity's attempt to justify the use of the "VBM" mark, alleged to infringe a German medical equipment company's mark, by referring to the holy Trinity of Hindu gods - Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. The German company, VBM Medizintechnik GmbH, has filed a suit for trademark infringement and passing off against an Indian company that used the "VBM" mark. The Indian company argued that "VBM" stood for "Vishnu Brahma Mahesh . Justice C. Hari Shankar stated that the explanation that "Vishnu Brahma Mahesh" was the basis for the "VBM" acronym was unsupported by any corroborative documentary evidence and was too facile to pass legal muster. The court found that there was no documentary evidence supporting this claim and that the Indian company had failed to pass off its usage as a bona fide adoption of the mark. The court granted an interim injunction against the Indian company, restraining the use of the "VBM" mark during the pendency of the suit. The German company has been using the "VBM" mark in India since 1992 for medical equipment, and the court found that the intent to copy it was apparent. The court noted that the two marks were virtually indistinguishable, and the defendant had exposed itself to "divine retribution" for invoking the holy Trinity for "unholy ends" . It concluded that a prima facie case of passing off was made out. --IANS spr/ksk New Delhi, Sep 28 : Congress on Thursday condoled the death of eminent agricultural scientist and father of India's "Green Revolution", M.S. Swaminathan, who passed away earlier in the day and recalled his contribution in making India self-sufficient in rice and wheat by the mid-70s. In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh said, "Dr M.S.Swaminathan, the key scientific architect of the Green Revolution, that made India self-sufficient in rice and wheat by the mid-70s has just passed away. He was a great institution builder, an inspiring teacher, a motivational leader, but above all, a man of the greatest humility and sobriety who allowed his achievements both in India and other parts of Asia to speak for themselves." Recalling the works of Swaminathan, Ramesh, who is also a Rajya Sabha MP said, "It was because of him that Indira Gandhi created the Department of Agricultural Research and Education in April 1972. Keeping in view the imperatives for ecological sustainability, he was the first to call for the Green Revolution to become what he called an EverGreen Revolution." Ramesh said that Swaminathan spent the last three decades especially propagating this cause, both in government and through the research foundation he established in Chennai. "He will remain an iconic figure. I was in regular touch with him and every interaction was a source of great education for me," the Congress leader added. Even Congress General Secretary (Organisation) K.C. Venugopal in a post on X, said, "I am deeply saddened to hear about the tragic demise of Dr. MS Swaminathan, the Father of the Green Revolution. His contribution to Indian agriculture transformed the lives of millions. We are committed to take his vision forward every opportunity we get. Om Shanti." Swaminathan breathed his last on Thursday at 11.15 a.m. at the age of 98 in Chennai. Born on August 7, 1925 in Tamil Nadu's Thanjavur district, he was an agronomist, agricultural scientist, plant geneticist, administrator, and humanitarian who played a crucial role in developing high-yielding varieties of paddy that helped ensure India's low-income farmers produce more yield. New Delhi, Sep 28 : Education Minister Atishi on Thursday expressed her disappointment at the poor hygiene and deplorable state of the MCD school in Nizamuddin where she made a surprise inspection this morning. The poor condition of the MCD schools is the result of the BJP's 15 years of "maladministration" in the MCD, the Minister said. The deplorable condition of the schools makes it clear that for so many years, the MCD played with the future of children and never paid attention to education. According to sources, not only were the walls and floors of the school covered in dust, but also the classrooms were sans teachers. Pointing out negligence and dirt in the school's maintenance, she issued an ultimatum to the school principal, giving her a week's time to address the issues or be prepared for suspension. The Education Minister stated that poor sanitation and cleanliness in the school premises reflect the insensitive attitude of the school administration towards the future of the students. This is not tolerable in the Kejriwal Government, she added. During the inspection, the Minister found heaps of dirt in every corner of the school, with garbage scattered all around. Due to a prolonged lack of cleanliness, dust had accumulated on the floors and walls besides cobwebs. Also, there were piles of broken desks and insufficient provision of drinking water for the children. Upon seeing the deplorable condition of the school, she said it is the principal's duty to ensure that all children receive quality education in a clean and safe environment. However, the condition of the school suggests that the school administration is insensitive to the future of the children studying here. She said that the indifferent attitude towards the education of the children studying here is the reason for the school's current state. In this regard, she directed the officials to immediately issue a show-cause notice to the school inspector to provide reasons for the situation. Minister Atishi stressed that the school administration and officials should take this matter seriously and work towards ensuring that all children in MCD schools receive the education they deserve. The Education Minister further stated that the poor condition of MCD schools is the result of the BJP's 15 years of maladministration in the MCD. The BJP has only worked to deteriorate schools during its entire tenure in the MCD. The deplorable condition of the schools makes it clear that for so many years, the MCD played with the future of children and never paid attention to education. But now, under the leadership of CM Arvind Kejriwal, MCD schools will be improved, and every child will get access to quality education, she added. New Delhi, Sep 28 : The Delhi High Court has upheld a decision by prison authorities to restrict inmates booked under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) to meeting only their family members and no one else. The decision came in response to a PIL filed by various undertrial prisoners charged with offences punishable under MCOCA, challenging the prison authorities' decision to restrict their visits. The prison authorities argued that they are authorised to separate high-risk prisoners or prisoners perceived as security threats and lodge them in high-security wards. They stated that such inmates are permitted to meet their family members in accordance with the law. The court noted that all prisoners, including high-risk prisoners, are allowed to meet their family members, and provisions for legal aid have been made. The court upheld the decision and disposed of the petition. The restriction on prison visits for high-risk inmates is in compliance with Rule 1410 of the Delhi Prison Rules, which permits only blood relations, spouses, and authorised lawyers to conduct interviews with high-risk offenders. In this case, 250 prisoners have been incarcerated in such wards. 'Gaza's only power plant will run out of fuel'. Image Source: IANS News Jerusalem, Sep 28 : Israel on Thursday reopened its main crossing point with the Gaza Strip after closing it for two weeks amid protests. The sole pedestrian Erez Crossing between Gaza and Israel, has been reopened for Palestinian workers to enter Israel, the Office of the Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), an Israeli Defence Ministry unit that coordinates with the Palestinians, announced in a joint statement. The crossing will remain open "depending on the assessment of the situation and the security stability", Xinhua news agency quoted the statement as saying. Israel closed the crossing for the Jewish new year holiday on September 15, citing security concerns. Approximately 18,000 Gazans hold permits from Israeli authorities to work in Israel, bringing much-needed funds into the economy of the Palestinian enclave, which has been under an Israeli-Egyptian blockade since 2007. KYODO NEWS - Sep 29, 2023 - 13:50 | World, All Senior U.S. and Chinese diplomats had "in-depth" talks in Washington this week, covering issues such as North Korea, Myanmar and maritime security, the State Department said Thursday, as the two countries explore a possible summit between their presidents in November. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller revealed that Daniel Kritenbrink, assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs, met with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong on Wednesday. They held a "candid, in-depth and constructive consultation on regional issues as part of ongoing efforts to maintain open lines of communication," Miller said during a press briefing. During the meeting, Kritenbrink underscored "the importance of a free and open, connected, prosperous, resilient, and secure Indo-Pacific region and upholding the rules-based international order," according to the department. It said he also told Sun that maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is significant. The Chinese Foreign Ministry said Friday that Sun and Kritenbrink had frank, deep and constructive exchanges of views over the China-U.S. relationship during the meeting. Despite disputes over a number of issues, the United States and China holding such diplomatic talks suggests they are stepping up preparations for a one-on-one meeting between President Joe Biden and President Xi Jinping in November, possibly on the sidelines of a multilateral meeting in San Francisco. Last week, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken agreed with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng in New York to maintain open lines of communication and to hold "senior engagements in the coming weeks." The Wall Street Journal reported Thursday that China's top diplomat Wang Yi is planning to visit Washington in October. Citing people familiar with the situation, the paper also said the two countries are discussing a trip to the U.S. capital by Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, Xi's top economic adviser. If the trip eventuates, he would be the highest-ranking Chinese official to visit the United States since Biden took office in 2021. Biden, who will chair this year's leaders' meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in the major West Coast city, and Xi most recently held face-to-face talks in November last year in Indonesia ahead of a Group of 20 summit. The United States and China have significant disagreements on nearly every issue, with Miller also confirming Thursday that a Chinese hacking group is believed to have stolen about 60,000 emails from State Department officials earlier this year. The spokesman said the emails were unclassified and confirmed classified systems were not hacked, referring to the theft of U.S. government emails disclosed in July by Microsoft, which blamed Chinese hackers. He said the State Department has not verified who was behind the hack but there is "no reason to doubt" Microsoft's findings. On Thursday, the department also released a special report on China's "information manipulation," saying the country uses a range of "deceptive and coercive methods" and spends billions of dollars each year on propaganda, censorship and disinformation to that end. The report, which the department says is the first of its kind, details how the Chinese government and the Communist Party seek to reshape the global information environment to their advantage. Related coverage: U.S. establishes diplomatic ties with Cook Islands, Niue U.S. eyes setting up space force unit in Japan amid China's rise U.S., China agree on senior-level talks in "coming weeks" Chennai, Sep 28 : Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Thursday expressed condolences on the passing away of eminent agricultural scientist Dr M.S. Swaminathan. Taking to social media, he said, "Deeply saddened to hear the passing away of eminent agro scientist, Thiru M.S. Swaminathan. His pioneering work in the field of sustainable food security has had a profound impact world wide. I will always cherish the moments I spent with him. My thoughts are with his family and the global science community during this difficult time." Padmabushan Dr M.S. Swaminathan passed away at his Chennai residence this morning at 11.20 am. He was a renowned agricultural scientist credited with pioneering works in sustainable food security. Dr Swaminathan was one of the architects of Green Revolution - a programme that paved the way for a huge growth in the production of rice and wheat through the adaptation of Chemical a"Biological technology. He was a nominated member of the Rajya Sabha from 2007 till 2013 and had flagged several issues concerning agriculture and farming in India. The Supreme Court of India in New Delhi on Sept 1, 2014. The government Monday told the Supreme Court that they stood by its verdict holding allocation of coal blocks since 1993 as illegal, and was ready to auction these blocks if they are cancelled . Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, Sep 27 : The Supreme Court has refused to entertain a PIL seeking a reduction or setting up of a cap in air travel fares to the Gulf countries. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud and Justices J.B. Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, disposed off the plea on Wednesday, saying that it would be appropriate for the petitioners -- Kerala Pravasi Association and others -- to take recourse before the High Court under Article 226 of the Constitution of India. The petition said airline companies are penalising Indian travelers by increasing fares when the right to travel abroad is an integral part of the right to dignity and personal liberty as enshrined in Article 21 of the Constitution. The plea, filed through advocates Kuriakose Varghese and V. Shyamohan of Kmnp Law, challenged Rule-135 of the Indian Aviation Act empowering airlines to fix ticket prices. It said that the airlines have been given unfettered power to fix the tariff since there are no guidelines or clarity on tariff fixation. The Association had also moved a similar petition in the Delhi High Court against the action of the airline companies. However, the High Court dismissed the plea as withdrawn giving liberty to file a detailed and exhaustive representation to the Director General of Civil Aviation. In 2022, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism, and Culture recommended that a balance must be maintained between the commercial interests of the airlines and the interest of the passengers, adding that the Ministry of Civil Aviation should maintain a close watch on the fare pricing by the airlines to ensure that it is not exorbitant. --IANS pds/ksk Kolkata, Sep 28 : Expelled Trinamool Congress leader and prime accused in the cash-for-school job case in West Bengal Kuntal Ghosh approached the Calcutta High Court challenging stay on a joint probe by central and state agencies for probe into his letters. In the letters, Ghosh accused central agencies of pressuring him to name Trinamool Congressas national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee in the school job case. A single-judge bench of Justice Amrita Sinha of the same court had stayed a joint probe by central and state agencies in the matter. The order for joint probe by Central Bureau of India (CBI) and Kolkata Police in the matter was originally given by a special court of CBI in Kolkata. However, on September 14 Justice Sinhaas bench stayed the order on grounds that since the matter was being investigated by central agencies following an order from the Calcutta High Court, a lower court cannot intervene in the order by ordering a joint probe by CBI and Kolkata Police in the same matter. The judge of the special CBI court has also been transferred. However, on Thursday, Ghosh approached Calcutta high- courtas single- judge bench of Justice Soumen Sen against the stay on joint investigation. In his petition Ghosh has argued that the joint probe was stayed by Justice Sinhaas bench without hearing his part of the argument in the matter. On Wednesday, Justice Abhiit Gangopadhyay also questioned the order for joint probe by the special court and also directed that the transfer process of the judge concerned should be completed by October. Following his summon, the state law minister Malay Ghatak personally appeared at Justice Gangopadhyayas bench and assured the clearance of the file relating to the transfer at the earliest. The same day, Justice Gangopadhyay also observed that the state police agencies have no business to intervene in an investigation by the central agency, which is being conducted following a high court order. "The members of the SIT of CBI should not be touched at all. There should be no compromise on the issue of corruption," Justice Gangopadhyay observed. Bhopal, Sep 28 : The 12-year-old mentally challenged girl, who was raped in Ujjain and begged people for help, has been identified and her family traced in Satna district, said police on Thursday, adding that four more people have been detained. The police claimed that the girl hails from Madhya Pradesh's Satna district and a missing complaint had been registered by her family. Briefing the media on Thursday, Ujjain Superintendent of Police (SP) Sachin Sharma said the girl travelled from Satna to Ujjain on September 25. However, it was yet to be ascertained whether she travelled to Ujjain by train or bus. "A missing complaint of the girl was registered at a police station in Satna on September 24," Sharma added. Sharma said that four more suspects -- those who came in contact with the girl from Satna to Ujjain -- have been detained for interrogation. "There is a gap of five-six hours after the girl reached Ujjain and the brutal crime took place against her. When we compiled the chain of evidence collected through our different teams of police, we found that four-five people came in her contact from Satna to Ujjain. And they all have been detained," Sharma added. The SP further said a special team of 28 police personnel has been formed to investigate the case. Teams have been assigned different tasks. "Our teams inspected bus and railway stations, auto stands and some other places. CCTV footage and some other technical evidence was collected, subsequently, when this evidence was examined, it suggested that the girl had reached Ujjain from Satna," Sharma added. He said further investigation will proceed on the basis of interrogation of the suspects detained in connection with the case. "We are very close to solving this case, but the investigation is still underway," the SP said. Speaking about the victim's health condition, Sharma said that she has recovered and her condition was much better than previous days. Notably, the victim's private part was brutalised and she was referred to Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Medical College (MGMC) Indore where surgery was conducted. "As per the doctors' latest update, the victim has recovered and is better. As surgery was conducted successfully, she is still under observation of the doctors," he added. On Wednesday police had detained an auto-driver. Kolkata, Sep 28 : The income of an earning wife cannot be treated on a par with that of other earning members considering the diverse responsibilities that she carries besides earning, the Calcutta High Court held on Thursday. A single-judge bench of Justice Ajay Kumar Gupta was hearing a petition of one Pratima Sahu challenging an earlier order by the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) dismissing her petition for compensation for serious injuries received by her in a road accident. MACTas contention was that since the compensation can be granted only if the victim's monthly income is within Rs 3,000, the same cannot be granted to Sahu she earned Rs 4,000. Later she challenged MACTas decision at the Calcutta High Court. On Thursday, while hearing the matter Justice Gupta observed that it is unjustified to treat an earning wife's income with that of the other earning members of the family. "Even asking for her income proof in such matters is also unexpected. We all must remember that an earning wife's responsibility is not just limited to earning money. She has the responsibility of the entire family, including cooking, cleaning of home and taking care of others. She earns after handling so many responsibilities. So her income is not comparable to that of anyone else," the Justice stated. New Delhi, Sep 28 : Senior police officer Rakesh Balwal, who was part of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) team probing the 2019 Pulwama terror attack case, has been deployed by the Centre in Manipur after tensions flared up again in the violence-hit state. Balwal, a 2012-batch IPS officer of Manipur cadre, had taken over as the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) in Srinagar in late 2021 A source said that an order been issued by the Union Home Ministry for his new deployment. Balwal had previously served on deputation to the NIA as Superintendent of Police (SP) for three and a half years, where he was part of the team that investigated the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. The decision to send him to Imphal came after fresh violence erupted in Manipur over the brutal killing of two students, with people taking to the streets in large numbers to protest the murders. As a result, the Manipur government once again suspended Internet services on Tuesday until October 1, just days after it was restored. At least 100 students, including girls, have been injured during the agitations over the past two days after they clashed with the security forces, who prevented them from marching towards the Chief Minister's bungalow. The security forces used tear gas shells and smoke bombs to disperse the agitating students. Since the ethnic violence broke out in Manipur on May 3, hundreds of people have been killed while thousands others were forced out of their homes. Hubballi : , Sep 28 (IANS) Former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai has said that the BJP will support the agitation for Cauvery water as long as the row existed. Talking to reporters here on Thursday, he said the orders have been issued to release 3,000 cusecs to Tamil Nadu. "This situation would not have come to this had the state government effectively argued in the Supreme Court when the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) directed Karnataka to release 10,000 cusecs daily. At last, wisdom seems to have prevailed in the state government," he said. He said already, much water had already flowed into Tamil Nadu which has totally violated the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal's orders. "There was a hue and cry for drinking water on which the government must focus. Most of the areas in North Karnataka are reeling under drought and the farmers are worried about losing the kharif crops due to the failure of rain," he said. "So far, the government has not distributed the compensation for them. The previous BJP government had given the solatium double the norms but it was not done by the incumbent government. The state government must not only protect the interest of farmers dependent on the Cauvery but also the Krishna water. The BJP had been clear in this regard," Bommai said. "The Congress government has lost its charisma in the state. Therefore, Congress is ready for the operation again, this is the weakness of Congress. Some who didn't get tickets go to Congress. There is no benefit in the Congress. It is natural that those who did not get tickets will go, so we don't worry too much about it. There would be no benefit politically from the operation hast of Congress to it," Bommai opined. Hyderabad, Sep 28 : Leading Tollywood actor Ram Charan's fans have come together to celebrate his 16 years journey in the industry. They hailed it as a significant milestone in his career. They believe that this journey has been nothing short of spectacular, filled with awe-inspiring performances and even an Oscar win for the blockbuster aRRRa. The fans believe that from his debut in 2007 to becoming a aglobal stara, Ram Charan's career trajectory has been a testament to his dedication and innate talent. His journey began with aChiruthaa, and since then, he has been unstoppable. With each film, he has showcased his versatility, conquering a wide range of roles and genres. Ram Charan's movies, including aRRRa, aMagadheeraa, aOrangea, aDhruvaa, and aNaayaka, have consistently been blockbuster hits, with him as the standout performer. His fans are not just admirers; they are devoted enthusiasts who celebrate his every success. In a special fan tribute, his blockbuster 'Rangasthalam' co-starring Samantha Ruth Prabhu, was re-released in theatres at various locations in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The screening was held at select theaters in Srikakulam, Vijayanagaram, Vizag, Rajahmundry, Nellore, Anantapur and Hyderabad. Theaters were adorned with confetti, and fans cheered passionately for their beloved star. Patna, Sep 28 : Amid a major row over an alleged anti-Thakur poem read by RJD Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha in Parliament, the National President of the JD(U), Lalan Singh, came out in support of him and said that the RJD leader had not given a statement on any caste and a section of the media twisted Jha's statement. While interacting with media persons in Patna on Thursday, Lalan Singh said, "People need to watch the proceedings of the Rajya Sabha where Manoj Jha mentioned the poetry. He said that suppose he was a Thakur. He did not have any intention to hurt the sentiments of any caste or community and the controversy started seven days after his statement. "The BJP is responsible for it. It is a party which creates confusion and a certain section of the media deliberately runs the news to spread confusion. Such media organisations are controlled by the Union Home Minister and the producers and directors sitting in their offices are specially deployed there only to spread confusion." Lalan Singh said this while terming BJP as a "Kanfuska party" in Hindi. The Thakur row started when Manoj Jha, while making his point on the Women's Reservation Bill during the special session of Parliament on September 22, mentioned a poem on the floor of the House which talked about dictatorship of the past. Following Manoj Jha's poem, RJD MLA Chetan Anand has opened a front against Jha and slammed him for his remarks against the Rajput (Thakur) caste. He said that Manoj Jha was indulging in duplicity in the name of socialist values. In a Facebook post, Chetan Anand said: "We are Thakurs and we believe in taking every community forward. We have made the most sacrifices in history. Targeting one caste in the name of socialist values is nothing but duplicity. "When we cannot hear unsavoury remarks against others, how can we tolerate abusive poems against Thakurs. We strongly object to Manoj Jha's statement." His father, Anand Mohan Singh, also attacked Manoj Jha and compared him with 'fitkari (Alum)'. "One 'fitkiri' Jha (Manoj Jha) is here who does not want the Rajput community to get united. Hence he is making statements like this," Singh said. "Fitkiri has a dual character. One is to work as an antiseptic and another is to split milk. If you take one drum of milk and if you put a small piece of fitkiri into it, the milk will split. That man 'fitkiri' Jha is doing the latter work. He is an agent of the BJP. Once the RJD gets weak in Bihar, he would be the first to join the BJP. "I know his uncle as well. He won the election on the ticket of the Samajwadi Party but when he saw the Congress forming the government at the Centre, he went there. Right now, the RJD top leadership does not understand my point, but 'fitkiri' Jha will do the same," Anand Mohan said. Bhubaneswar, Sep 28 : Unknown assailants shot dead a prime accused in the sensational murder case of Kamakhyanagar block Samiti member in Dhenkanal district, police said on Thursday. Nirakar Sahu (38) was a resident of Tumusigha area of Dhenkanal district. Police recovered his body lying in a pool of blood at Alatuma village under Kamakhyanagar police limits this morning. The man was earlier arrested on the charges of murdering Deepak Mahant, a Samiti member of Baruan (K) Panchayat in Kamakhyanagar block over business rivalry in September 2021. He was recently released from jail after the court granted him bail in the case around four months ago. "It seems that the miscreants intercepted his vehicle at around 10 p.m. Wednesday night. Later, he was shot dead by the miscreants who also decamped with his car. We have started investigation into the matter, registering a case (447/23) on the basis of a complaint lodged by Nirakaras wife. We suspect past enmity as the possible cause behind the murder," told a senior police official. The victimas relatives claimed that Nirakar received several death threats from the miscreants in the last couple of days. Meanwhile, Police claimed to have identified some suspects who will be arrested soon. KYODO NEWS - Sep 28, 2023 - 19:11 | World, All Taiwan unveiled its first indigenous defense submarine, "Narwhal," on Thursday in the southern port city of Kaohsiung, in what the island's leader Tsai Ing-wen described as a milestone in "defense independence" amid cross-strait tensions. Speaking at a ceremony, Tsai said in front of the naval vessel that the day will forever be remembered for the launch of the submarine designed and built by Taiwanese people. It will undergo testing at sea starting in October and is expected to be delivered to the navy by late 2024, according to local media reports. Tsai said submarines are vital for the island's navy in terms of strategy and tactics to develop "asymmetric combat power," referring to the capability of a small power to focus on the weakest point of a bigger enemy, namely mainland China. In addition to procuring weapons from overseas, Taiwan must also implement defense independence so that the island's combat capabilities can be continuously updated and its defense capabilities more resilient, Tsai said. Since Tsai took office in May 2016, she has been pushing a "design and build at home" policy for military airplanes, vessels and submarines. The indigenous submarine project was launched in 2017 and made a major breakthrough in 2018 when the U.S. State Department allowed American manufacturers to sell submarine technology to Taiwan. The Narwhal submarine, manufactured by Taiwan shipbuilder CSBC Corp., is about 70 meters long and in the class of 2,500-3,000 tons. The budget of NT$49.3 billion ($1.53 billion) has been allocated for the first sub. Taiwan aims to domestically build another submarine by 2027, according to local media. It means the island will have a total of three combat-ready submarines by 2025 and four by 2027, including the two existing Chien Lung-class subs bought from the Netherlands in the 1980s. Huang Shu-kuang, who is responsible for the building of subs, told Taiwan media the two new submarines to be built by 2027 will be deployed to defend the waters around Taiwan and the area from Suao in Yilan in Taiwan's northeast to Yonaguni Island in southern Japan's Okinawa Prefecture. China the same day slammed Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party for squandering the island taxpayers' money to buy weapons. "Creating cross-strait antagonism and confrontation will only undermine peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said. Communist-ruled China views the self-ruled democratic island as a renegade province to be united with the mainland, by force if necessary. Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Wu Qian also said the submarine project suggests Taiwan is trying to do something beyond its ability. "No matter how many weapons the DPP authorities build or purchase, they cannot stop the reunification of the motherland, nor can they shake the People's Liberation Army's strong determination, firm will, and robust ability to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity," Wu said. New Delhi, Sep 28 : Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, Chairman, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) said on Thursday that as India is rising as a global force in international trade and interconnectedness have transcended geographical boundaries, the challenge of illicit trade looms larger than ever before. Addressing the inaugural of the two-day 9th edition of 'MASCRADE 2023', organised by FICCI CASCADE, Agarwal said: "Illicit trade undermines national security, risks legitimate manufacturing, leaks government revenue, jeopardises public health and safety, and erodes the trust of consumers and investors alike. "Tackling this issue is fundamental for safeguarding India's economic stability, ensuring fair competition, and fostering an environment conducive to sustainable growth and ease of doing business. CBIC plays a crucial role in the fight against illicit trade in its entirety." Speaking on the rising figures of GST revenue, Agarwal said that month after month the GST revenue has crossed the mark of Rs 1.6 lakh crores. "The GST revenue collection was Rs 1.87 lakh crores in April this year, the highest ever. The buoyancy of revenue collection is 1.43 of nominal GDP growth, meaning thereby that growth in revenue collection is not only by GDP growth, but a major contribution is made by increased compliance levels." He said that the government is taking all steps to encourage self-compliance. "An environment is being created so that the fraudsters are not allowed to enter in the ecosystem and pollute it. The recent decisions taken in successive GST Council meetings, to make the suitable changes in return filing are in that direction only, so that menace of fake ITC is curbed," he said. To enhance the compliance, Agarwal said that the department has taken steps from soft approach of nudging the taxpayers for timely and accurate filing of returns, to selecting for return scrutiny or Audit. Speaking on the Customs, Agarwal said that the department is fully committed in the country's efforts to bring down the logistics cost from level of 13-14 per cent of GDP to the level of 8 per cent in line with such levels in developed world. "For success of 'Gati Shakti' program, each and every component in logistics chain is important and need to be closely monitored. Customs is leaving no stone unturned," he said. On anti-smuggling front, Agarwal said that whether it is a case of outright smuggling or by concealment in trade consignments, customs officers are keeping a vigilant eye over the perpetrators and syndicates involved in such illegal activities. "CBIC is also actively exploring to harness cutting-edge technologies to enhance its operations, including Big Data Analytics, AI, Image Analytics, Natural Language Understanding, Network Analytics, and Open-Source Intelligence in the realm of Customs and GST. Such initiatives are leveraging innovative technology to manage risks and ensure compliance," he added. Dr. Kunio Mikuriya, Secretary General, World Customs Organisation said that to combat these threats and smuggling risks, customs administrations need to prioritise risk management and profiling based on timely and accurate information, intelligence exchange and analysis, including advance cargo and passenger information. "Customs agencies must strengthen their cooperation with e-commerce platforms and intermediaries to ensure responsible and compliant trade practices, thereby preventing adverse effects on governments, consumer protection, and conventional consumer retailers," he said. Anil Rajput, Chairman, FICCI CASCADE said: "In recent time, PM Modi has been emphasising on the need to eliminate the streams of terror funding in order to protect our communities and economies. In line with this thought, the theme of MASCRADE this year has been inspired in the context of our war against terror financing. It is indeed heartening to see that the government has accorded top priority to this. "Purposeful interventions such as establishing the world's first National Forensic Science University; developing national and global databases on crimes such as terrorism, narcotics, and economic offenses; creation of the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Center among others have been made. "Clearly, the fight against terror funding and illicit trade are beyond any country, region or industry. A collective partnership of all compliant nations with the aim of promoting legal industry across the world, punishing the illicit traders and choking the flow of finance for terror funding is imperative. "Additionally, internal security is a critical pivot for the nation's prosperity. After all, when a country can ensure the safety and wellbeing of its citizens, it paves the way for economic growth, development and an improved quality of life," he added. Anil Sinha, Former Director, CBI and Think Tank Member, FICCI CASCADE said that we need to collectively strategise against the activities of illicit trade. "This is the time of action and we must move in this direction," he added. During the event, FICCI CASCADE-TARI report 'Illicit Markets: 'Hidden Stream: Linkages between illicit markets, financial flows, organised crime and terrorism' was released. The first-of-a-kind report examines intricacies in various forms of illicit operations and highlights the intricate nexus between the illegal economy, terror and organised crime. India is one of the fastest growing nations in the world and the nation is also displaying good progress in addressing security concerns, as evidenced by its improved scores in the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) and crime index. The report notes that India has a GTI score of 7.43 and a crime index score of 44.7, reflecting positive developments in these areas compared to the levels observed in 2016. This is evident through the decrease in both terror incidents and fatalities from 2016 to 2020, as well as the recent reduction in crime cases. The Global Organised Crime Index (2021) shows a low prevalence of organised crime actors in India at 4.3 on a scale of 110, compared to the average benchmark of 5.2 for 122 countries. India also does not have a high propensity to export counterfeited products, according to the Global Counterfeiting Index. The 6 Cs approach will help India safeguard itself against the ill-effects of illicit financial flows and remove barriers to economic growth. The Indian economy crossed the $3 trillion economy mark in 2021 with the total amount of money laundering in India as per UNODC estimates pegged at $159 billion, showing the magnitude of the problem driven by the rise of illicit markets and non-market actors. As India strives to transform its economy into a $5 trillion powerhouse in the coming years, the current trade composition at 30 percent would make the trade value at $1.5 trillion. The report recommends adopting 6 Cs as a policy playbook to negate the threats. Cognisance of Terrorism and Organised Crime under regulatory framework; continuous and critical evaluation of illicit financial flows; central nodal agency for greater coordination; creating awareness and changing consumer preferences; combatting trade based money laundering; and cooperation and coordination at international level. The report also investigates the hidden linkages in 122 countries and decodes the relationship between organised crime actors and the illegal economy, including trade-based money laundering, counterfeiting, arms and drug trafficking and terrorism and crime. It is a first-of-a-kind report that sheds light on the intricate nexus between the illegal economy, terror and organised crime. The report also provides linkages and empirical relationships based on data gathered. The report relies on secondary data sources and indicators from international and other agencies on terror and crime, such as the Global Terror Index (GTI), Crime Index and Global Organised Crime Index (GOCI) to understand the subject across 122 countries. Organisation of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) indicators on counterfeiting, Global Financial Integrity (GFI) indicators on Illicit Financial Flows and other governance indicators provided by the World Bank were used to establish linkages and relationships. In 2021, the economic impact of violence was estimated at $1.17 trillion, which accounts for approximately 6 percent of the country's GDP in terms of purchasing power parity (PPP) and violence per capita impact is estimated at $ 841 at PPP. It is estimated that nearly 80 percent of such containment costs relate to security and as the economy grows (along with it the illegal economy), India's cost of addressing terror and crime will be significant. The report highlights the role played by criminal networks in a number of illicit activities, including drug and human trafficking, smuggling of cigarettes, alcohol and illegal trade of wildlife products. The United Nations estimates that the global amount of money laundered in a year is estimated to range from 2 to 5 percent of the global GDP. New Delhi, Sep 28 : In a fillip to India's semiconductor journey, Continental Device India Private Limited (CDIL) on Thursday became the first Indian company to start production of Silicon Carbide devices for electric vehicles (EVs). With the new surface mount semiconductor packaging line, CDIL's total capacity at the facility will increase to 600 million units annually. Union Minister of State for Electronics and IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, virtually inaugurated the new Surface Mount Semiconductor Packaging Line at CDIL's plant in Mohali, Punjab. The company said it has already initiated pilot production with 50 million units and delivered its inaugural batch to customers in both the domestic and international markets. This will help CDIL address the impending surge in electric vehicles, power management devices and solar panels. CDIL also signed an MoU with the Semi-Conductor Laboratory (SCL), a research institute in Mohali under the IT Ministry, to make Mohali the end-to end semiconductor hub in the country. They will aim to establish a comprehensive framework wherein SCL's specialised knowledge and wafer fabrication facilities are utilised to produce indigenized wafers for CDIL's semiconductor devices, using CDIL's proprietary manufacturing processes. "India's semiconductor mission is a key focus for both the union and the state governments, and there have been many developments in the sector. Yet, India still has much to catch up, with a projected surge in demand to approximately $110 billion by 2030," said Amitesh Kumar Sinha, Joint Secretary, MeitY. "It's heartening to see CDIL taking the lead in packaging of discrete semiconductor devices. CDIL has capability for R&D, design, and packaging. Earlier, they also had a fabrication facility. I hope CDIL will also consider setting up a discrete fab in the country by availing financial support under the 'Semicon India' programme in future," he added. CDIL has identified and laid focus on Silicon Carbide (SiC) products. SiC is an emerging technology that allows for much-improved efficiencies and power-handling capabilities, especially in high-power charging applications and battery management systems. CDIL spent R&D efforts pursuing discrete SiC technology so as to build proficiency and assist in the world's switch to EVs. CDIL has also established an advanced testing and reliability laboratory at the Mohali plant. "Even though SiC devices are hard to manufacture at scale, we have spent effort and investment to master them. CDIL has been able to innovate on the brittleness and complexity around the production of SiC devices and has earned the resounding approval of large multinational customers in export markets," said Prithvideep Singh, General Manager, CDIL. Chennai, Sep 28 : The Adi Dravidar Welfare Department of Tamil Nadu is planning a survey of the Puthirai Vannar community in the state. The community, which has Scheduled Caste (SC) status, has been engaged in washing of clothes, conducting funeral rites, practicing traditional medicine as also running hairdressing services of other SC community members. The survey is being conducted to understand their socio-economic status and demographic position. According to the 2011 census, the Puthirai Vannar community accounted for 28,000 members. However, a recent internal assessment conducted by the Adi Dravidar Welfare Department found that the community has grown and their number now exceeds 60,000. Now, the department is planning a baseline survey of 15,000 Puthirai Vannar households and if required, extend it to 5,000 more households. KM Velusamy, an activist of the Puthirai Vannar community from Virudhunagar while speaking to IANS said, "We are a totally marginalised community and revenue officials are not providing us with our caste certificate citing several reasons. "The officials even ask whether we belong to the community and hesitate to give us our certificate stating that there are other communities who are engaged in this work." However, he said that the move of the Adi Dravidar Welfare department to study the Puthirai Vannar community was a welcome decision. New Delhi, Sep 28 : airpay, India's first integrated omnichannel financial services platform has launched a Zero-Interest Brand EMI (Equated Monthly Instalments) solution to empower its merchants to make credit available to their customers. To achieve this objective, the company assists merchants in offering flexible payment options and Zero-Interest Brand EMI solutions to the buyers, thereby expanding revenue options. With this, airpay becomes an early entrant in providing the Zero-Interest Brand EMI solution for traditional brands with higher ticket sizes to enhance cross-sell and up-sell while increasing consumer loyalty through affordable payment options, easing the consumeras budget concerns. "This move will offer our network of merchants the best of both worlds -- improve the end-consumer experience by offering affordability through flexible payment options and the opportunity to enhance revenue growth," said Kunal Jhunjhunwala, Founder & MD of airpay. As per reports, India is expected to become the largest digital EMI market in the world. The digital EMI user base is expected to reach 100 million by 2026 in the country. Reports suggested that the industry will see a quantum leap to $45-$50 billion in gross merchandise value by 2026. Digital merchant payments are expected to shoot up by over eight times and cross $1 trillion by 2026 from the current $285 billion. "This offer will help the merchants reach a larger consumer base and contribute to their digital journey. Through our Brand EMI offering, we aim to give a boost to high-value purchases and enable the merchants to increase their sales through these value-added services," said Sulabh Tandon, Chief Business Officer, airpay. "airpay has envisioned to activate 200+ merchants across the Zero-Interest Brand EMI offering this year," he added. Founded by Jhunjhunwala, the company collaborates with over 200 financial institutions and more than 1,000 business partners worldwide. Over the years, airpay has established itself as a preferred partner and advisor for providing financial services technology and last-mile enablement. New Delhi: A view of the Supreme Court in New Delhi on Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023. (Photo: Wasim Sarvar/IANS). Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, Sep 28 : The Supreme Court has directed its registry to initiate criminal action into a case involving fabrication of an order of the apex court. A bench of Justices Abhay S. Oka and Pankaj Mithal ordered that criminal law must be set in motion by lodging a formal complaint with police after the Registrar (Judicial) found in an inquiry that an order of the top court was fabricated. The bench specifically directed the investigating agency to examine the role allegedly played by the lawyer associated with the case, who chose not to appear before the court despite being called through a notice. "Though notice was issued to Ms.Prity Mishra, advocate, for examining her role, she has chosen not to appear before this Court today. It is for the investigating agency to examine the role allegedly played by her," it said. The Supreme Court ordered that the Officer in-charge of the police station concerned will submit a report about the investigation within a period of two months. After the main case was dismissed in July last year, one of the petitioners brought to the notice of the court that two conflicting orders, first order of dismissal and second order allowing the special leave petition (SLP), were purportedly passed by the same bench. The Supreme Court took suo moto cognizance of the complaint and issued notice to advocate Mishra returnable in four weeks. As per the details available on the official website of the apex court, the court had dismissed the SLPs saying that there were "no grounds to interfere with the impugned judgment and order of the High Court in exercise of jurisdiction under Article 136 of the Constitution of India". In its order passed on Tuesday, the Supreme Court noted that "it is obvious from the report that the document purporting to be a copy of the order of this Court which is marked by Annexure-III in the report is a fabricated document". The matter will be taken up on December 1 for consideration of the police report. Nagpur, Sep 28 : Vidarbha Jan Andolan Samiti President Kishore Tiwari said that Maharashtra was always dear to the heart of renowned agricultural scientist Dr. M. S. Swaminathan - who passed away on Thursday - and "he was a friend indeed of the farmers in need". "Dr. Swaminathan was like nothing seen in centuries by humanitya A visionary, scientific giant who single-handedly changed the image of Indian agriculture forever on the face of Earth and continues to inspire agro-economies all over the world," he said. His passing will be an "immense loss" to the farmers of the country, especially eastern Maharashtraas Vidarbha region, which was fond to his heart, said Tiwari, who is the farmer face of Shiv Sena-UBT. All India Kisan Sabha President Dr Ashok Dhawale said that "accepting Dr. Swaminathanas C2+50 formula for Minimum Support Price is the path to the combat the deep agrarian crisis and farmersa suicides in India". "In the aM. S. Swaminathan Committee Reporta of 2006, the good scientist had made some equally revolutionary recommendations to boost farm incomes, but unfortunately his suggestions were never fully implemented," rued Tiwari, who worked with him closely since 1999. He said that if the present Bharatiya Janata Party government at the Centre had implemented Dr. Swaminathanas recommendations on credit-supply policy, "it could have arrested the ongoing 'genocide' of farmers all over India, especially Maharashtra", he said. The result is that India has witnessed over 200,000 farmersa suicides since 2014, and till the end of its tenure (by early-2024), the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveniently side-stepped the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission. "I had met Dr. Swaminathan three years ago to discuss Maharashtra and Vidarbha farmers problems when he said that the cost of cultivation plus 50 per cent profit is calculated as per the MSP formula, without taking into account other expenses including the labour of the farmer and his family," recalled Tiwari. However, the scientist felt the MPS was falling far short of the cost of cultivation, and had expressed "serious concerns" over the government policies on subsidised crop loan policy for cultivation of food-crops, increasing the area of pulses and oilseeds and the emerging policy of using global technology and research, said Tiwari. During his several visits to Maharashtra, the VJAS had felicitated Dr. Swaminathan and his wife Mina with the aVidarbha Mitra Awarda (2005) in Yavatmal, and accorded a public reception by the then Mayor Anil Tiwari. "Dr. Swaminathan was deeply perturbed about farmersa suicides and the plight of their widows and orphansa At one time, he interacted closely with several such widows in Pandharkavada. He had later brought forth many schemes for women farmers of Wardhan, Yavatmal and other districts that became notorious for farmland suicides," said Tiwari. "Later, he took up the cause of women farmers formally as a MP (2007-2013) by introducing the private aWomen Farmers Rights Billa which presented a complete, integrated programme for the welfare of farmland widows and the orphans in the country. Sadly the government did not even bother to allow a simple discussion on it in the Parliament till now," said Tiwari. With Maharashtra dear to his heart, he had selected Wardha as the state base for his aMS Swaminathan Research Foundationa (2005), but it shut down in 2015 after the Centre starved it of funds, said Tiwari. Tiwari said that implementing the Dr. Swaminathan Commission Report fully "will be a true and lasting tribute" to the great son of India and will save lakhs of farmersa lives in the coming years as the world prepares to grapple with the vagaries of global warming and climate change. (Quaid Najmi can be contacted at q.najmi@ians.in) New Delhi, Sep 28 : Former Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, who surprised the porters at the Anand Vihar Railway Terminal station recently, on Thursday dropped in at a furniture market in the national capital and interacted with the carpenters. In a post on X, Rahul Gandhi said, "Today I went to Asia's largest furniture market located in Kirtinagar, Delhi and met the carpenter brothers. Apart from being hard workers, they are also amazing artists a" experts at carving strength and beauty! We talked a lot, got to know a little about his skills and tried to learn a little." According to party leaders, during his visit to Kirti Nagar furniture market, Gandhi interacted with the workers and the carpenters of the area. The photographs of the Congress leader visiting the market was shared by Indian Youth Congress chief Srinivas B.V. on his official X handle. In his post, Srinivas said, "When mass leader Rahul Gandhi reached Asia's largest furniture market located in Kirtinagar, Delhi.. During this time he met hard working carpenter brothers. Bharat Jodo journey continues." On September 21, Rahul Gandhi visited porters at Anand Vihar Railway station to understand their issues. During his visit, he interacted with them, donned the red shirt and carried luggage on his head. The Congress leader, in the last few months, has surprised everybody with his visits among people. Rahul Gandhi had visited Bengali Market, Jama Masjid area to have food and then visited Mukherjee Nagar area to interact with the UPSC aspirants. He had also visited Delhi University's PG men's hostel and shared a meal with the students and then took a truck ride from Haryana's Murthal to Ambala to understand their pain. The Congress leader had also visited the farm lands during the paddy sowing season and interacted with farmers in Haryana's Sonepat, visited bike mechanic shops in Delhi's Karol Bagh area, and Azadpur Mandi amid skyrocketing prices of vegetables. He had also invited the farmers of Sonepat and a vegetable vendor Rameshwar separately over for lunch at his residence here. Recently he also undertook motorcycle rides in Ladakh, Leh and Kargil region to interact with the people. Nagpur, Sep 28 : Vidarbha Jan Andolan Samiti President Kishore Tiwari said that Maharashtra was always dear to the heart of renowned agricultural scientist Dr. M.S. Swaminathan -- who passed away on Thursday. Tiwari said"he was a friend indeed of the farmers in need". "Dr. Swaminathan was like nothing seen in centuries by humanity. A visionary, scientific giant who single-handedly changed the image of Indian agriculture forever on the face of Earth and continues to inspire agro-economies all over the world," said Tiwari. His passing away will be an 'immense loss' to the farmers of the country, especially eastern Maharashtra's Vidarbha region, which was fond to his heart, said Tiwari, who is the farmer face of Shiv Sena (UBT). All India Kisan Sabha President Ashok Dhawale said that "accepting Swaminathan's C2+50 formula for Minimum Support Price is the path to the combat the deep agrarian crisis and farmersa suicides in India". "In the 'M.S. Swaminathan Committee Report' of 2006, the good scientist had made some equally revolutionary recommendations to boost farm incomes, but unfortunately his suggestions were never fully implemented," rued Tiwari, who worked with him closely since 1999. He said that if the present Bharatiya Janata Party government at the Centre had implemented Dr. Swaminathan's recommendations on credit-supply policy, "it could have arrested the ongoing 'genocide' of farmers all over India, especially Maharashtra," said Tiwari. He said the result is that India has witnessed over 200,000 farmers' suicides since 2014, and till the end of its tenure (by early-2024), the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveniently side-stepped the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission. "I had met Dr. Swaminathan three years ago to discuss Maharashtra and Vidarbha farmers' problems when he said that the cost of cultivation plus 50 per cent profit is calculated as per the MSP formula, without taking into account other expenses including the labour of the farmer and his family," recalled Tiwari. However, MS felt the MPS was falling far short of the cost of cultivation, and had expressed "serious concerns" over the government policies on subsidised crop loan policy for cultivation of food-crops, increasing the area of pulses and oilseeds and the emerging policy of using global technology and research, said Tiwari. During his several visits to Maharashtra, the VJAS had felicitated Dr. Swaminathan and his wife Mina with the 'Vidarbha Mitra Award' (2005) in Yavatmal, and accorded a public reception by the then Mayor Anil Tiwari. "Dr. Swaminathan was deeply perturbed about farmers' suicides and the plight of their widows and orphans. At one time, he interacted closely with several such widows in Pandharkavada. He had later brought forth many schemes for women farmers of Wardhan, Yavatmal and other districts that became notorious for farmland suicides," said Tiwari. "Later, he took up the cause of women farmers formally as a MP (2007-2013) by introducing the private 'Women Farmers Rights Bill' which presented a complete, integrated programme for the welfare of farmland widows and the orphans in the country. Sadly the government did not even bother to allow a simple discussion on it in the Parliament till now," said Tiwari. With Maharashtra dear to his heart, he had selected Wardha as the state base for his 'MS Swaminathan Research Foundation' (2005), but it shut down in 2015 after the Centre starved it of funds, said Tiwari. Tiwari said that implementing the Swaminathan Commission Report fully "will be a true and lasting tribute" to the great son of India and will save lakhs of farmers' lives in the coming years as the world prepares to grapple with the vagaries of global warming and climate change. (Quaid Najmi can be contacted at: q.najmi@ians.in) Kolkata, Sep 28 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee at its office in CGO complex, Salt Lake, here for questioning in connection with the multi-crore cash-for-school job case in West Bengal on October 3. Incidentally, on that day Abhishek Banerjee is supposed to be in New Delhi to lead Trinamool Congress's protest demonstration at Jantar Mantar against the Union government's "reluctance" to release funds to the West Bengal government. Banerjee has been summoned as the chief executive officer of a corporate entity whose name has surfaced in connection with the probe in the school job case. The information about the ED summon was given by Banerjee himself through a message posted on his X (formerly Twitter), where he has accused the central agency of summoning him again on a crucial day of his political assignment just as they did on September 13 when he was supposed to attend the INDIA bloc coordination meeting as a member. "Earlier this month, the ED summoned me on a day coinciding with an important coordinating meeting of #INDIA in Delhi. I dutifully appeared and complied with the served summons. Now, today yet again they have served me another summons to appear before them on a day when the protest agitation for West Bengal's rightful dues is scheduled in Delhi on 3rd Oct. This stark revelation unequivocally exposes those who are truly perturbED, rattlED and scarED!" Banerjee's post read. However, till the time the report was filed it was not clear whether Banerjee will be honouring the summon this time. To recall, on September 22, the Calcutta High Court's single- judge bench of Justice Tirthankar Ghosh rejected Banerjee's plea for dismissal of the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) filed against him by ED in the case. However, the bench granted him an interim protection against any coercive action by the ED just on the basis of the ECIR. The Justice observed that since the preliminary findings in ECIR are just based on some statements of another accused in the case Sujay Krisha Bhadra, so on the basis of that ECIR no coercive action can be taken against him for the time being. Again on September 24, the ED sleuths faced the ire of the Calcutta High Court's single- judge bench of Justice Amrita Sinha for submitting incomplete details on the assets and properties of Banerjee. New Delhi, Sep 28 : Microsoft has started to roll out a new update to its Paint app called Paint Cocreator, a new AI-powered experience powered by DALL-E which will help you create artwork in Paint by describing in a few words what you want to create. The company rolled out the update to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels. The users will need to optionally select an art style and then click Create. Paint Cocreator will generate three variations of artwork for them to choose from. Select any of them to add to the canvas to start creating. "We will be rolling out access slowly at first, so when you get the update, you must first join the waitlist by signing in with your Microsoft account and clicking on the new Cocreator button in the toolbar. You will get an email notification when you are in the preview, and we will give you 50 credits to get started. Each credit lets you generate a new set of images," Microsoft said in a blogpost. Paint Cocreator is available in preview to users in English in the following regions, which include the US, France, the UK, Australia, Canada, Italy, and Germany. Earlier this month, Microsoft rolled out a new "background removal" tool in its Paint app on Windows 11 Insider builds. With this tool, users will be able to remove the background from any picture with the click of a button. To use the new tool, users will need to paste or import content onto the canvas and then, in the toolbar, click the new remove background button to remove the background from your entire image. --IANS shs/dan KYODO NEWS - Sep 28, 2023 - 12:40 | World, All North Korea adopted a constitutional amendment to incorporate its policy of "rapidly developing nuclear weapons to a higher level" during a key parliamentary session earlier this week, with leader Kim Jong Un stressing the need to deter U.S. military "provocations," state-run media said Thursday. At the two-day session of the Supreme People's Assembly through Wednesday, Kim said, "We must neither change nor concede the present position of our country as a nuclear weapons state, but, on the contrary, continue to further strengthen the nuclear force," the official Korean Central News Agency reported. The incorporation of the policy to bolster its nuclear force in the supreme law was "the most just and reasonable crucial step," Kim added, referring to the importance of accelerating the modernization of the country's nuclear weapons to "hold the definite edge of strategic deterrence" against the United States, KCNA said. Kim said the establishment of "the triangular military alliance" involving the United States, South Korea and Japan had finally resulted in the emergence of an "Asian-version NATO," which he described as "the worst actual threat." He also criticized Washington for having "maximized its nuclear war threats" to North Korea by conducting large-scale military drills and deploying its strategic nuclear assets near the Korean Peninsula on a permanent basis, the report said. The constitutional amendment came about a year after Pyongyang authorized the pre-emptive use of nuclear weapons in a new law at a parliamentary session and stated that the country's status as a nuclear weapons state has become "irreversible." In a constitutional change in April 2012, North Korea proclaimed its status as a nuclear power. Related coverage: South Korea's Yoon says use of nukes would spell end of North Korean regime Quad ministers urge U.N. members not to trade weapons with North Korea South Korea proposes summit with Japan, China in December: sources New Delhi, Sep 28 : Delhi Police has arrested two men for allegedly extorting over Rs 10 lakh from a woman after threatening to upload her "indecent photographs" on social media. The accused have been identified as Sourav (27), a resident of Bhalswa Dairy, who works as a cash collection agent and Maneesh (22), a manager of a hotel, said an officer on Thursday. According to police, the woman filed a complaint on the Cyber Portal regarding extortion by the two men. "She alleged that around two to three years ago, she had accepted a friend request from an Instagram ID. After gaining her trust the accused allegedly got the victim to share revealing photographs. Thereafter, he started blackmailing and threatened to post her photographs on social media and extorted Rs 10.5 lakh from her," said Deputy Commissioner of Police (Rohini), Guriqbal Singh Sidhu. During the investigation it was learnt that the two men were operating from Badli and Bhalswa area of Delhi. "On the basis of technical analysis, they were identified as Sourav and Maneesh. A raid was conducted and the accused were apprehended from their residences," said the DCP. On sustained questioning, Sourav disclosed that he had made a fake Instagram ID and used to send friend requests to the girls on Instagram. "After gaining the trust of the girls, he used to get their indecent photographs and then blackmail them. He would threaten to publicise their photos on social media. In the present case also he did the same and extorted Rs 10.5 lakh from the complainant," said the DCP. "He received the extorted money in his bank account as well as in his associate's bank account. On the instance of the accused, one mobile phone and one ATM card were seized from their possession. On analysis of the mobile phone, it came to light that he has hundreds of such photographs in his mobile phone. Apart from such photographs, the IDs of several girls were also found in his mobile phone," the DCP added. Ahmedabad, Sep 28 : A man has been booked here on Thursday for allegedly causing harm to a woman and sexually harassing her, an official said. In the video of the incident that has gone viral, it can be seen that a man is assaulting a woman near a salon in an upscale Ahmedabad locality. The man has been identified as Moshin. In a video statement, the victim spoke about the incident that took place on Monday. "We had incurred a financial loss of about Rs 4,000-Rs 5,000. Consequently, I reprimanded a female staff member. Mohsin, filled with anger, questioned my decision to scold her. I inquired if he had a personal relationship with the staff member, prompting his defence. "Subsequently, he launched a vicious assault. I implored him to cease the violence and engage in a rational conversation, but my pleas fell on deaf ears. I attempted to contact the police using the 100 helpline but he forcibly took away my phone. My phone's battery was draining and the device eventually powered off. Fearing for my safety, I began running, eventually escaping from his grasp." The victim also detailed that Mohsin later issued an apology, leading her to initially withhold filing a formal complaint. She recounted: "He expressed remorse, and I forgave him, refraining from pursuing legal action. Initially, I hesitated to lodge a formal complaint, reluctant to witness him face legal consequences. Nevertheless, with support from the police, I decided to file a complaint." After the video emerged, the police reached out to the victim -- who hails from the northeast, and initiated legal proceedings based on her statement. The woman told the police that she and Mohsin were business partners, and were operating a women's salon in Sindhubhavan, Ahmedabad. The confrontation escalates as the man advances towards the woman, while another individual seen in the video attempts to intervene and halt Mohsin's aggression. All these efforts prove futile, as Mohsin proceeds to drag the woman by her hand and brutally assault her, even pulling her hair. Khatkar Kalan : , Sep 28 (IANS) Pledging to make Punjab a frontrunner in the country, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday vowed to realise dream of Shaheed Bhagat Singh by ensuring holistic development of state. At the very outset, the Chief Minister felicitated family members of Shaheed Bhagat Singh. Addressing the gathering during the state-level function to mark the birth anniversary of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, he said the government will realise the dreams of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and ensure that no one from the state migrate abroad. He said the necessary steps are already being taken by the state and no stone will be further left unturned for it. Mann said the government has already put the wheels in motion to start reverse migration in the state. The Chief Minister announced to make relevant changes in the school curriculum for keeping the younger generations abreast about the lives, philosophy and teachings of great Sikh Gurus, seers, saints, prophets and martyrs. He said the youth should take inspiration from these noble souls for which necessary changes in syllabus of schools will be made. This will help perpetuating the glorious legacy of the state amongst our coming generations. The Chief Minister said today is not a normal function but a celebration of birthday of the greatest legend in the world. He said at the age when youth demands gifts from their parents, Shaheed Bhagat Singh sought freedom for his motherland from the British. He said this is the biggest day in the life of every Indian adding that this day has special significance in his life. The Chief Minister said Shaheed Bhagat Singh was a well-read leader who was always worried about the welfare of people. He said the iconic martyr had played a great role in emancipating the country from clutches of British imperialism. Mann reminded the people that when the great national heroes and martyrs were waging war against the atrocious British regime some traitors were siding with the imperialist forces, adding that no one remembers such people now. Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 28 : Kerala Finance Minister K. N. Balagopal on Thursday said considering the immense scope of Kerala's tourism industry to contribute more revenue to the state, the stakeholders in the sector should focus more on developing infrastructure and coming up with innovative products to tap the global trends. Balagopal said this while inaugurating the GTM Expo 2023, the first edition of South India's prestigious travel expo, being held as part of Global Travel Market (GTM 2023). "Tourism has already become an important sector wherein the scope of private investment is very high. It is also a sector where investors can earn handsome returns. So, it is vital to apply innovative marketing strategies to promote Kerala Tourism globally," said Balagopal. Promising total support of the government to the tourism industry initiatives, Balagopal noted the expos and travel markets like GTM should facilitate the exchange of experience and networking among the participants and visitors. More than 1,000 trade visitors, 600 plus domestic and 100 international tour operators and 100 plus corporate buyers are attending the four day summit which ends on Saturday. New Delhi, Sep 28: On September 19, Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau accused the Indian Government of having potential links over the killing of a Canadian national Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India has called the accusations absurd and has called Canada a safe-haven for terrorists. Both countries are in a diplomatic spat with each other and relations are at an all-time low with no side budging. India has stopped issuing Visas for Canadians and has asked Canada to bring parity in its Diplomatic staff similar to that of India while Canada is seen coordinating with FVEY (intelligence alliance of Anglo-Saxon countries) to put pressure on India to come forward and cooperate in the investigation. While it is important for every country which pursues Rule of Law to investigate every crime on its land, it often happens that some are given more importance than others while some are just brushed under the carpet. On June 18, Nijjar was shot dead outside Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey, Canada and the Nijjar case continues to be investigated. On the other hand, Karima Baloch wasnat so lucky. She died under mysterious circumstances and nobody took up her case. Karima Baloch was a freedom activist from the Balochistan region of Pakistan and had to flee and take asylum in Canada in 2016 as she was being threatened by the Pakistan Authorities. While living in Canada, she continued her activism despite continuous threats on her life. This was confirmedby her husband Hammal Haider, who is himself an activist living in exile. On August 20, 2020, she left for a walk but didnat return, two days later her body was found near Lake Ontario. Toronto Police confirmed that her death is being investigated as a non-criminal death and no foul play is suspected. Threat to Karimaas life has remained perpetual and it travelled with her to Canada too. During her asylum case, her uncle was killed to give her a message. In Canada she was being watched daily. Karimaas brother Sameer recalls an episode when a caller described her daily routine and how she was enjoying with her three-year-old nephew in the park and continuously intimidated her to stop activism. With so many threats looming over her head, it is strange that Canadian Police and Government Officials didnatlook into the homicide angle, while her relatives and friends continued to press for an investigation. But the Canadian police were adamant about closing the case, a fact that says a lot about Canadaas rule of law. Karimaas sister Mahaganj states how Pakistan created trouble during Karimaas burial in her hometown Tump, Balochistan. Firstly, Pakistani Forces mocked her as she landed in Karachi with Karimaas body and told her that she had now seen Pakistanas power. The forces even warned that if they didnat follow their instructions, they would bury Karimaas body themselves where her grave would never be found again. Pakistan Forces hated her so much that they snatched the Quran from the family and threw it away while the family were reciting passages for her last rites. It is not the first time that Canada has been faced with such duplicity. The infamous case of Canadian citizen Maher Arar Extraordinary Rendition, where the Canadian agencies knew Arar was not a terrorist but still complied with the request by the American agencies for a rendition of Arar to Syria, where he was tortured but ultimately was declared innocent. While Canadians are keen to investigate the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar and want to bring accountability and justice for Nijjaras killing, it would also be pertinent if Canada reopens an investigation into Karima Balochas death as there are credible reasons to believe that Pakistan has killed Karima Baloch. The rule of law cannot be partial in any country, especially in a free democratic one. (The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative --IANS New Delhi, Sep 28 : Even as the crucial assembly elections are inching closer in Rajasthan, the Congress is mulling the idea of dropping several of the ministers and sitting MLAs in the polls, sources said. Party source said that the Congress in its internal report has found anti-incumbency against many of the Ministers and the sitting MLAs. The source said that the reporter prepared by the team of party strategist Sunil Kanugolu has found a number of issues and thus highlighted it to the party leadership. The source said that the team of Kanugolu has identified at least 50 seats where the sitting MLAs and ministers have strong anti-incumbency against them and they would not be able to win the elections. Following the startling revelation in its internal report, the party is mulling to drop many of its ministers as well as the MLAs in the coming elections. However, the source further said that the final decision will be taken by the partyas central election committee (CEC) which will sit on deciding the candidates for Rajasthan. The party had earlier said that it plans to release the list of candidates for Rajasthan in the month of September. Rajasthanas Screening Committee chairman Gaurav Gogoi had earlier also indicated that the candidates will be decided on the basis of the winnability. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot had also launched several pro-people schemes ahead of the assembly election in the desert state. Meanwhile several senior leaders, including party Chief Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi had been visiting the state for campaigning. Even the BJP, which was voted out of power in the 2018 assembly elections is eyeing to make a comeback in the desert state and is leaving no stones unturned for the victory. Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP President Nadda on Wednesday night held meetings with the senior party leaders in the state to chalk out strategy for the assembly elections. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also been visiting the state to campaign for the party. Mumbai, Sep 28 : Actors Shabir Ahluwalia and Neeharika Roy have expressed gratitude to their fans as their show 'Pyaar Ka Pehla Naam Radha Mohan' has completed 500 episodes. A show that started as a romantic drama based in modern-day Vrindavan, has emerged as an audience favourite since its launch. With an engaging storyline and strong characters such as Mohan (Shabir) Radha (Neeharika), and Damini (Sambhabana Mohanty), the show has kept the viewers on the edge of their seats. In recent episodes, viewers witnessed how after Daminias plan of getting Radha killed fails, and in retaliation she cleverly gets Mohanas mother to sign property papers of Trivedi Bhawan on her name. Using this to her advantage, she asks the family members an option to leave the house or stay back without Radha. Having entertained the audience for almost one and a half years now, the cast and crew are very grateful to the fans who have made the show reach the significant milestone of 500 successful episodes. In fact, they even celebrated the momentous occasion with a small celebration on the sets of the show. Talking about the same, Shabir said, "This is a great feeling for all of us. It doesnat feel like weave completed 500 episodes already. Weave been working on the show for almost one and a half years now and the love we have received for our hard work is unparalleled, we are grateful to each viewer of the show." "The credit goes to every cast and crew member who have worked tirelessly every day since we have started shooting. I would love to thank all my fans and the showas fans, for joining us in this remarkable journey. Waiting for many more such celebrations in the future," he added. Neeharika commented: "I am incredibly grateful and humbled as our show has crossed a milestone of 500 episodes. It showcases that the hard work, dedication, and passion of every member of our amazing cast and crew, has been worth it. This show is my first show as the lead, and the journey has been amazing." "Playing the role of Radha has been a roller coaster ride for me, I have learned a lot. We have achieved this milestone just because of our fans, I just hope they continue to shower their love on us like they have done," she added. In the upcoming episodes, it will be interesting for the viewers to witness what will Radha and Mohan do when they face the obstacles created by Damini? The show airs on Zee TV. Kolkata, Sep 28 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED), which is probing the multi-crore cash for school job case in West Bengal, has now summoned Lata Banerjee and Amit Banerjee, the parents of Trinamool Congress's national General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee, for questioning in the matter next week. The information surfaced just an hour after Abhishek Banerjee informed on X that he has been summoned on October 3 at EDas Salt Lake office for interrogation in the matter. Sources said that his parents have been summoned as the directors of a company where Abhishek Banerjee is the CEO. The name of the corporate entity surfaced in the course of the central agency probe in the school job case. Sources said that both Lata Banerjee and Amit Banerjee have been asked by the ED official to be present at the said office of ED next week with relevant papers and documents relating to their association of said corporate entity as its directors. Both have also been asked to come with documents detailing their assets and investments, source said. Recently, the Calcutta High Courtas single-judge bench of Justice Amrita Sinha has also directed ED to submit the asset details of Lata Banerjee. The next hearing in the matter is scheduled on Friday. Meanwhile, political slugfest has surfaced over the entire development. Trinamool Congressas Rajya Sabha member Dr Santanu Sen said from the development, it is evident that since BJP is suffering from the phobia of Abhishek Banerjee as the central agencies have been unleashed against him in such a manner. BJPas state spokesman Samik Bhattacharya said that since the court has not given any direction about not going ahead with the investigation, the central agency has the right to issue notice for interrogation. "The doors of the court are open for him to challenge EDas summon," he said. New Delhi, Sep 28 : Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday asked the Prime Minister Narendra Modi that if nothing is found against him in the fresh inquiry initiated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the alleged corruption related to fraudulent renovation involving his residence, will he resign. He made the remarks a day after the CBI initiated a preliminary enquiry (PE) in connection with the alleged corruption related to alleged fraudulent renovation involving crores of rupees in Kejriwal's residence. Speaking to the media here, a defiant Kejriwal hit back at the BJP government and said: "This is not for the first time. This shows that the Prime Minister is in panic mode. This is not first inquiry. They have got 50 inquiries done. They have alleged me in liquor scam, bus scam, school scam and road scam. They had filed 33 cases against me." He said that they had inquired everything against me in the last eight years and they did not get anything. "In the new inquiry too again they will find nothing. So what do you expect from the fourth pass king," he said in an apparent jibe at the Prime Minister. Attacking the government, he said that they keep on playing inquiry game round the clock. "They don't work. They want to break me and should bow before them. This is not going to happen. Kejriwal will not bow down. No matter how many false cases they file, I will not bow down," Kejriwal said. "I want to challenge the fourth pass king that if in this inquiry again nothing is found against me then will he resign?" the Chief Minister asked. Earlier in the day, the BJP hit back at the AAP government and Delhi Chief Minister said that the CBI inquiry will find out the truth. The renovation of Kejriwal's residence, which took place during the Covid-19 pandemic and involved a significant sum of money, faced allegations of flouting rules and alleged corruption. Bengaluru: People stage a protest during a 'bandh' called by farmers and Kannada organisations over the Cauvery water dispute issue. Image Source: IANS News Bengaluru, Sep 28 : The Karnataka bandh call given by Kannada organisations over release of water to Tamil Nadu is likely to affect normal life in Bengaluru on Friday. The Congress government has warned that there is no room for observing a bandh and the permission has only been given for a peaceful protest. However, Kannada activist Vatal Nagaraj has claimed that the bandh is going to be a success and it does not matter whether prohibitory orders are clamped in the state or not. "CM Siddaramaiah should support the bandh and protest march. This is about the River Cauvery. The protestors should not be troubled by the police. We are taking out a peaceful protest march and not indulging in violence. I appeal to the president of Advocates' Association to boycott the legal proceedings and support the bandh. "Employees of the state transport corporations should also support the bandh," he said. The state government had given oral directions for the staff of the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) and the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) to attend duties on Friday without fail. Ola-Uber Cab Drivers' Association president Tanveer Pasha stated that the cab aggregators will take part in the Karnataka bandh. Between 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. the service of cabs and autos would be stopped. 1.25 lakh autos and 50,000 cabs would not ply on Friday till evening 6 p.m. Kuruburu Shantakumar, state president of Sugarcane Growers' Association and Convenor of Jala Samrakshana Samithi had stated that the organisations under their umbrella would stage road blocks between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on state and national highways across Karnataka. "We will lay siege to the residence of CM Siddaramaiah," he explained. However, he maintained that the samithi would not support the Karnataka bandh call. Organisers of the Karnataka bandh had not given support to the Bengaluru bandh observed successfully on September 26. The IT industry and corporates have decided to go online without taking any chances. Most of the employees are in a holiday mood and are leaving Bengaluru either for their native places or for holiday destinations. Bengaluru City University, Tumakuru University, Rani Channamma University in Belagavi, Visvesvaraya Technological University, Davanagere University and the Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) have postponed exams scheduled to be held on Friday due to the Karnataka bandh. KYODO NEWS - Sep 28, 2023 - 13:29 | All, Japan Mitsubishi Motors Corp. is considering pulling out of car production in China, sources familiar with the matter said Thursday, as the Japanese automaker's sales slump amid a rapid shift to electric vehicles in the country. Mitsubishi Motors, which halted output in China in March due to falling sales and the rise of local brands, now plans to focus its resources on the Southeast Asian market, the sources said. In China, the Japanese company had been making mainly gasoline-powered cars at a factory in Hunan Province under a joint venture with Guangzhou Automobile Group. The factory is the only Mitsubishi Motors plant in the country. As part of efforts to reverse its sluggish sales, the Japanese automaker launched a new hybrid version of its flagship Outlander sport utility vehicle for the Chinese market in December. But that proved insufficient amid the faster-than-expected shift to all-electric cars and the expanding market share of local brands in China, now the biggest EV market in the world, the sources said. Mitsubishi is holding talks with its local production partner but no formal decision has been made on the matter, a company official said. The automaker is not the only Japanese company struggling with sluggish sales in China. Nissan Motor Co. has lowered its sales outlook for China in fiscal 2023 to 800,000 vehicles from an earlier estimate of 1.13 million, while truck maker Hino Motors Ltd. plans to compile measures to revamp its sales in the country this fall. Mazda Motor Corp. said last month its sales in China in the three months ended June fell 17 percent from a year earlier but added it is not considering pulling out of the market. Related coverage: Nissan to make all new cars sold in Europe fully electric by 2030 Honda to adopt Tesla's charging port for EVs sold in North America Toyota unveils SUV-type Century to attract more wealthy customers Mumbai, Sep 28 : A major political row was triggered in Mumbai after a Marathi woman alleged that she was stopped from buying an office in a Gujarati-dominated building society in suburban Mulund recently. As a video of the fracas between the woman and the society members emerged, the Mulund Police have lodged a complaint and are probing the matter. The video of Wednesday shows the woman, Tripti Devrukhkar, who had gone to examine a premise for an office in the Shiv Sadan building in Mulund in the city's north-eastern suburbs. In the emotional video clip, the woman is bursting into tears and narrating the experience when some Gujarati members, led by an elderly man of the society, blocked her bid, saying that "Marathis are not allowed in this society, as per rules". When she demanded to be shown the rules, they refused, snatched her phone while she was recording the fracas and roughed her up, even as two others rushed there to help the elderly man. "They openly threatened me, dared me to do anything, get anyone but they would not budge The shocking thing is that not a single Maharashtrian there came to my help," said a shaken Devrukhkar. Later, as the video of the arguments went viral on the social media, top Maharashtra Opposition leaders attacked the state government and asked "whether action will be taken against the society people" for insulting a Marathi woman in such a manner. "This is horrible Such a thing is happening to a Marathi in Mumbai and Maharashtra and nobody speaks up for us If we can't take an office here then should we go to Gujarat?" Devrukhkar added in a choked voice. Late on Wednesday, based on Devrukhkar's complaint, the Mulund police lodged a complaint against the society members, and the elderly man, identified as Praveen Thakkar and his son Nilesh Thakkar, who were summoned for questioning. Congress state President Nana Patole, Shiv Sena-UBT leaders Aditya Thackeray, Sushma Andhare, Nationalist Congress Party's General Secretary Dr. Jitendra Awhad, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena spokesperson Sandeep Deshpande and others reacted strongly over the episode. Thackeray termed the incident as "irritating" and Andhare questioned whether Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis will do anything in the matter. "Marathas were caned, even women Will they take action against this building Will they send the Police and BMC tomorrow, or will they remain silent not to offend the Delhi leaders and 'speed up the work on the Bullet Train' project," said Thackeray Jr. in a sarcastic post. Dr. Awhad said that in Marwari-Jain-Gujarati societies, Marathis, Dalits, and Muslims are not allowed to buy properties as they are considered "lowly meat-eaters" and the Muslims also because of their religion. "Everyone in Mumbai knows all thisAfter this incident, there is a clamour on social media that Gujaratis should be thrown out," he said. Patole demanded whether there is "no place for Marathis" in Mumbai anymore, and other Congress leaders asked whether the Shinde regime will take action against the society in the matter. Deshpande said that this incident reflected on the Marathi pride and warned that "the MNS would teach a lesson to such people". Incidentally, soon after the incident, Mulund MNS activists had landed at the society premises and compelled the Thakkars to tender an oral apology to Devrukhkar. The aggrieved woman, meanwhile, vented her ire on all state political parties and even the Marathi community for not bothering to protect the interests of their own ilk in their own state against such attitude. "From where are they (the Gujaratis) getting so much confidence to indulge in this kind of behaviour What are the parties and our own Marathis doing, except making lavish decorations during Ganeshotsav and calling themselves soldiers of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj," said Devrukhkar. Meanwhile, the video and the incident evoked sharp reactions on social media and some even pointed out how several prominent Muslims and celebrities in the past were also subjected to such discriminatory treatment in so-called 'vegetarian' societies. (Quaid Najmi can be contacted at: q.najmi@ians.in) Patna, Sep 28 : JD-U President Lalan Singh on Thursday sharply reacted to the rumours regarding, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar joining back NDA, said that 'he would not even spit at BJP'. The statement of Lalan Singh came at a time when Nitish Kumar recently met with the PM Narendra Modi during G 20 dinner party at the president house and he also visited the statue of Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay in Patna. When asked about Nitish Kumar recent moves, Lalan Singh said: "Forget about looking at BJP, Nitish Kumar will not even spit at BJP. BJP is not a party which can be looked at. What is the existence of BJP?" He said that BJP had promised many things but not fulfilled even a single promise. "Modi failed to provide two crore jobs. He has no control over price rise. This government has even failed to give Rs 15 lakh which they had promised. BJP only creates confusion in the society. The producers and directors sitting in the media organisations are spreading confusion and they are being controlled by Amit Shah," Singh alleged. He said that there are some leaders in the JD-U who are acting like agents of BJP. "One of them was Professor Ranvir Nandan. We have thrown him out of the party. He was trying to become the adviser of the Chief Minister but he always decides the strategy and policy," Singh said. Following the statement of Lalan Singh, Samrat Chaudhary, the state president of BJP sharply reacted, saying: "The political birth of Nitish Kumar happened due to BJP. He became Bihar's Chief Minister five times with the help of BJP." "Who is inviting Nitish Kumar to come to the NDA. BJP has already declared him as Paltu Kumar. Lalu Prasad called him Paltu Kumar and he will remain Paltu Kumar," Chaudhary said. "RJD has a vote bank but Nitish Kumar does not have any vote bank. He is zero now," Chaudhary said. --IANS ajk/dan New Delhi : PM Modi interacts with ground level functionaries of G20 Summit at Bharat Mandapam. Image Source: IANS News Jaipur, Sep 28 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the Shri Sanwaliya Seth Temple in Chittorgarh city of Rajasthan on October 2. BJP sources said that he will lay the foundation stone and inaugurate many development works as well and will also address the general meeting. Earlier, Modi had addressed the Parivartan Sankalp Mahasabha in Jaipur on 25 September. This will be the Modi second visit to Rajasthan in less than seven days. After the finalisation of Modi visit, State President C.P Joshi and Leader of Opposition Rajendra Rathore have gone going to Shri Sanwaliya Seth Temple for preparation of Modi visit. The two BJP will also likely hold an organisational meeting regarding the PM's meeting here. Many officials including Chittorgarh District President will be present in the meeting. Chittorgarh is also the Lok Sabha constituency of State President Joshi. Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 28 : The week-long confusion over whether Malayalam actor-politician Suresh Gopi, who was nominated as the new Chairman of the famed Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFT) in Kolkata, will take the post, blew over on Thursday as he said he will take up the new assignment. Gopi, in a Facebook post, noted: "Thank you Prime Minister of India, Home Minister of India and my friend Mr Anurag Singh Thakur, Minister for Information & Broadcasting. "Had the first call for the invitation and confirmation on the Chairmanship of the Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute, Kolkata. I'm taking over charge with the assurance of the Minister that it is 100 per cent not an office of profit and not at all a salaried job and that I will still continue to carry all the liberties of a politician that I am in every front. So I will take charge as the Chairman as per instructions on the date and time suggested by the Central Information & Broadcasting Ministry. Wish me all the best, pray for me so that I add glitter to the name of the world-renowned Shakespeare of Indian films in the creative aspect." The Kolkata-based institute provides higher and professional education and technical expertise in the art and technique of film-making and television production. Gopi last year completed a term as a nominated member in the Rajya Sabha. He started moving close to the BJP ever since he was invited by Prime Minister Modi for his swearing-in ceremony in 2014. New Delhi, Sep 28 : Days after several Opposition MPs wrote to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla over the unparliamentary remarks made by BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri against BSP MP Kunwar Danish Ali, he has referred the complaints to the Privileges Committee. According to sources, Speaker Birla has referred the complaint against Bidhuri, who is a Lok Sabha MP from South Delhi parliamentary constituency to the Privileges Committee. The Privileges Committee is headed by BJP MP Sunil Kumar Singh. BJP MP Nishikant Dubey thanked Birla for referring the matter to the Privileges Committee and said, "Gratitude to the Speaker of the Lok Sabha Om Birla, he entrusted the responsibility of the investigation in Danish Alias case to the committee of Lok Sabha. aToday this was possible because the BJP has majority in the Lok Sabha. Otherwise in the first Lok Sabha in 2006, the RJD-JD(U)-Congress' fight involving shoes and microphones; Sonia Gandhi's assault in 2012; commotion at the time of formation of Telangana in 2014 when several MPs were injured, neither were committees formed nor was anyone punished." Bidhuri stoked controversy after he used derogatory and abusive words against Ali during the Parliament Special Session. Following Bidhurias remarks, Ali wrote to Speaker Birla to refer his case to the Privileges Committee and also urged him to order an inquiry into the matter. Even the BJP issued a show cause notice to party MP Bidhuri for using unparliamentary words against the BSP MP in Lok Sabha. Bidhuri's remark sparked outrage, with the Opposition leaders calling for strict action against him. Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and many other Opposition party MPs including DMKas Kanimozhi, NCPas Supriya Sule demanded Bidhuri's suspension from Parliament, saying that the language used by him "should not be used inside or outside Parliament". Even Speaker Birla took "serious note" of the objectionable comments made by Bidhuri in the House and warned him of "strict action" if such behaviour was repeated in the future. Meanwhile, many BJP MPs including Nishikant Dubey, Ravi Kishan and Harnath Singh Yadav also wrote to the Speaker alleging provocation by Ali. A total of 11 MPs had written to the Speaker. Chandigarh, Sep 28 : The "political warfare" between Punjab's ruling AAP and the Congress reached its crescendo when the state police arrested the latter's firebrand legislator Sukhpal Singh Khera, a rebel AAP's leader of opposition, in a 2015 drugs case. Khaira was constantly exposing AAP Member of Parliament Raghav Chadha's marriage expensive diamond ring. "Will @raghav_chadha have the decency to clarify how he managed to gift a 4 Carat very expensive diamond ring to his newly wedded wife @ParineetiChopra (more than 10 times his declared income) while his income according to 2020-21 ITR is merely 2.44 Lacs? While she being a celebrity gifted him with a ring of lesser value? What is the truth? Punjab BADLAV wants to know?-Khaira @INCIndia @INCPunjab," Khaira questioned Chadha on X, formerly Twitter, just hours before his arrest on Thursday morning. Reacting sharply over colleague's arrest, Leader of Opposition Pratap Bajwa said the arrest of Senior Congress Leader and Bolath MLA Khaira is extremely deplorable. "The @AAPPunjab govt has stooped to an all-time low and resorted to vendetta politics. Sukhpal Singh Khaira has been outspoken and raised his voice against the wrongdoings and irregularities committed by the CM @BhagwantMann's govt. The Punjab Congress under the ambit of law will leave no stone unturned to get him released," Congress leader Bajwa, who is on slugfast with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, wrote on X. In the morning, a Punjab Police team led by Superintendent of Police Manjeet Singh raided the Chandigarh residence of Khaira around 6am. The MLA's son went live on Facebook showing that a team of Punjab Police reached their residence to apprehend Khaira. In the video, Khaira could be seen arguing with the police team and asking them to show him the arrest warrant. The Bholath legislator could also be seen asking for the identity of the police officers who were part of the raiding team. He was told by the police officials that he was being arrested in the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act case. When Khaira asked the team where he was being taken, a police official told him that he was being taken to Jalalabad in Fazilka. Khaira said the Supreme Court had already quashed the NDPS case Khaira's advocate son Mehtab Singh Khaira said in a statement: "This is to inform you that my father Sukhpal Singh Khaira has been arrested by Punjab police on direct orders of CM Punjab in an eight-year old drugs case. This is the same case which was quashed by the Supreme Court of India. The police have bypassed all procedures and even an order of the Supreme Court to gag the voice of a strong and vociferous leader. "My father has told me to inform everyone that he is not scared of any false implication and will fight for Punjab till the very end. Truth will prevail." Later in the day, Fazlika's Jalalabad court sent Khaira to police custody till September 30. --IANS vg/dan New Delhi, Sep 28 : Air India on Thursday announced its partnership with celebrated fashion designer Manish Malhotra to design new uniforms for over 10,000 airline employees, including cabin crew, cockpit crew, ground and security staff. Meanwhile, Malhotra and his team have begun meeting Air India's staff, conducting discussions and fitting sessions with them to better understand their specialised needs. "Air India is delighted to be collaborating with Manish Malhotra to realise our shared ambition of representing the very best of a vibrant, bold and progressive India on the world stage," said Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD, Air India. "We are working closely with Manish and his team to combine elements of our brand, our heritage and our culture, together with the unique requirements of the airline environment, for what we hope will be a fresh and exciting new look that supports and represents the new Air India," said Wilson. "It's an absolute honour to collaborate with Air India, our national flying ambassadors. Reimagining their uniforms is the onset of a journey of joy and collaboration, and I am excited to embark on it. Our shared ideology is simple yet profound: To evolve without erasing, to modernise without forgetting. Together, we aim to intertwine tradition with the future, crafting uniforms where comfort meets authenticity, wrapped in timeless elegance," said Manish Malhotra. Jaipur, Sep 28 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP national President J.P. Nadda's sudden visit to Jaipur with General Secretary, Organisation, B.L. Santhosh has triggered speculation in Rajasthan and raised questions over the future role of former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje. If sources are to be believed, Raje has been asking for a bigger role while trying to position herself as the CM face. However, the party high command has reiterated many times that the Assembly polls will be contested on the face of PM Narendra Modi and the BJP symbol. Modi, during his Jaipur visit, asked all party workers to ensure that the lotus blooms in the state. In fact, he neither spoke of the former governmentas achievements nor of Raje. Surprisingly, Raje also did not address the meeting. Even on Wednesday, when Shah and Nadda were in the state capital, speculation was rife about her role. However, the two leaders stayed silent on the CM face and said that the elections will be fought on the PM's face. Sources said that Raje has been invited as chief guest to Barmer where the Rajput community members in large numbers will be present. This will put direct pressure on the BJP leaders from the most dominant community in the state to announce her as the CM face. Further some more events of Raje are lined up to show her strength. Reading between the lines, Shah and Nadda were in Jaipur in damage control mode. "Raje and her followers will be pacified as they will get a good chunk of tickets, a source said. The sources added that further announcements will be made post the party's parliamentary board meeting scheduled in the first week of October which will discuss the poll preparations in Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan. Mumbai, Sep 28 : A 16-year-old boy drowned off the Juhu Beach during the immersions of Lord Ganesha idols here on Thursday evening, the BMC Disaster Control said The incident occurred around 4.15 p.m. when the body of the boy a" later identified as Hasan Y. Shaikh a" was removed from the Arabian Sea waters by a member of Drishti Lifeguards. He was rushed to the R. N. Cooper Hospital nearby and pronounced dead on admission by AMO Dr. Devidas Walke. The Mumbai Police are probing the incident and further details are awaited on the tragedy. Meanwhile, thousands of gigantic, big, medium and small idols of Lord Ganesha started in the morning for the immersion ceremonies on Anant Chaturdashi, marking the end of the 10-day long Ganeshotsav. The immersions are being carried out in the Arabian Sea, creeks, beaches, artificial ponds, lakes, wells and other water bodies in Mumbai and all over the state. Hyderabad, Sep 28 : The Kitex Group on Thursday began work on its second integrated fibre-to-apparel manufacturing cluster in Telangana. More than four months after commencing the work on its first project at Kakatiya Mega Textile Park (KMTP) in Warangal, it laid the foundation stone for the second cluster at Seetharampur in Rangareddy district near Hyderabad. Kitex, which is the second-largest manufacturer of infant wear in the world, is setting up this cluster with a capacity of seven lakh garments per day. The company thus intends to create a Guinness record. The plant will come up on 250 acres with an investment of Rs 1,200 crore. It will employ more than 11,000 people directly, more than 80 per cent of which will be women employees. The entire investment will be operational by December 2024. Minister for industries KT Rama Rao along with his ministerial colleagues P Sabitha Indra Reddy and P Mahender Reddy participated in the ground-breaking ceremony. Kitexas first investment project in Telangana is coming up at Kakatiya Mega Textile Park, Warangal where construction of a similar sized integrated fibre-to-apparel manufacturing cluster is ongoing in full swing and expected to commence operations by December 2023. The company is investing Rs.1,600 crore in the Warangal plant. The cluster, spread over 200 acres, will employ more than 15,000 people directly, more than 80 per cent of which will be women employees. Kerala-based Kitex signed MoU with Telangana government in 2021 to invest Rs.2,406 crore in the state. --IANS ms/rad KYODO NEWS - Sep 28, 2023 - 20:26 | World, All Indonesia's Central Sulawesi Province on Thursday marked five years since a massive earthquake and tsunami hit the province, killing more than 4,300 people, with thousands of survivors still awaiting permanent relocation. Local residents laid flowers at Talise beach in Palu, the capital of the province in the country's central Sulawesi Island that was hit hardest by the magnitude 7.4 quake and tsunami. Due to soil liquefaction caused by the temblor, thousands of houses sank into the ground, and many of the victims were killed by a mudflow. Prayers were offered at the Poboya mass grave in the neighboring Sigi regency, where hundreds of bodies, including some unidentified, were buried following the disaster. Arie Setiadi, head of the Central Sulawesi Disaster Management Task Force, has said at least 4,000 households are still in temporary shelters, rented rooms or houses, or relatives' homes, as construction of housing by the provincial government has been delayed due to land issues and other reasons. There are also many others who have returned to their homes in areas designated as hazardous due to the limited housing in safe areas, according to local authorities. While some government offices and infrastructure facilities damaged in the disaster have been rebuilt, restoration efforts are still under way, with many half-collapsed buildings seen in Palu. The Japan International Cooperation Agency said it has provided grant aid for the reconstruction of a bridge in Palu, the elevation of coastal roads and the construction of roads connecting housing complexes built for people who used to live in the areas hit by liquefaction and tsunami. In the Petobo district of Palu, many residents who evacuated after the disaster returned to their homes damaged by mudslides triggered by liquefaction. Lodewick Pangalila, one of the residents, said the area was designated as a red zone by the provincial government for a possible recurrence of liquefaction. He added that he received financial support from the government right after the disaster but was not entitled to a house in a new permanent settlement. The 61-year-old explained, "I have no other choice but to return to my house in Petobo as I cannot afford to buy one in another area." He also said he was worried about future disasters. Bhopal, Sep 28 : The Madhya Pradesh Police on Thursday claimed to have arrested the main accused in the Ujjain minor girl rape case. The arrested individual has been identified as Bharat Soni, a resident of Ujjain. Earlier on Thursday, Ujjain SP Sachin Sharma said that a total of five suspects were detained for questioning. One of them was detained on Wednesday, while four were detained on Thursday. Sharma said that the victim hails from Satna district. Meanwhile, the main accused who had been apprehended, tried to escape from police custody and collided with a cemented wall following which he was admitted to a government hospital, police Inspector Ajay Kumar said. Interacting with the press, the police officer said when the accused was taken to the crime spot, he tried to escape. "He (accused) ran away from the spot. However, the police personnel chased him. In the mean time, he collided with a cemented wall and got injured," Kumar said. He further said one of the cops chasing the accused also got injuries but eventually, the accused was overpowered. When asked if the accused sustained injury due to police firing, Kumar denied, saying: "He collided with a cemented wall." "Victim's family has lodged a missing complaint on September 24. The girl has traveled from Satna to Ujjain," SP Sharma said. The incident has sparked a political controversy in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh. The opposition Congress has questioned the law and order situation under the BJP government in the state. AICC general secretary Priyanka Gandhi, who is leading the Congress' campaign in the poll-bound state of MP, slammed the BJP government for the incident. Bhopal, September 28 : Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday challenged Madhya Pradesh's ruling BJP to give one third of the total tickets to women in the upcoming Assembly elections. Visiting the poll-bound Madhya Pradesh to kick-start his party's campaign,the former UP Chief Minister, on the second day of his visit, reached Chhatarpur district of Bundelkhand region, closely connected with Uttar Pradesh. He held a meeting with party workers and reviewed the poll preparations. During a press conference in Chhatarpur, he targetted the BJP over the recently-passed Women Reservation Bill and challenged the BJP to give 33 per cent tickets to women in Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections. "If the BJP really wants to give reservation to the women, it should give 33 per cent tickets to in Madhya Pradesh and if not do so, then it will be clear that BJP has passed this Bill for its political agenda only and it be considered that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has cheated the people this country," Akhilesh Yadav said. Meanwhile, he also said that his party will contest the Assembly elections in MP with the concept "PDA - (Pichde (backward class), Dalits, and Alpsankhyak (minorities)". He added that his PDA alliance will try to give 20 per cent tickets to the women in Madhya Pradesh. Asked about the INDIA bloc, Akhilesh Yadav said alliance's aim is to defeat the BJP in Lok Sabha elections. Asked if the SP will support the Congress in the state, he said: "Congress was short of majority in 2018 and SP was first to support. But, SP will contest elections on its own." Akhilesh Yadav also said that people of Madhya Pradesh have decided to change the government and this time, the SP will win more seats than previous elections in Madhya Pradesh. Later, Akhilesh along with other party leaders had 'pattal bhoj' at a Dalit's home in Chhatarpur. On Wednesday, he addressed a poll rally in Sirmour Assembly constituency of Rewa district, bordering Uttar Pradesh, and hit out at the ruling BJP over crimes against Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe (SC/ST) and Other Backward Class (OBC) people in Madhya Pradesh. SP has fielded former BJP MLA Laxman Tiwari from Sirmour. The SP has so far declared its six candidates in two lists and third list of candidates is likely to be released soon, according to a SP leader in Rewa. CDILs new packaging line in Mohali another push to Indias chip journey: MoS IT. Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, Sep 28 : Union Minister of State for Electronics and IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, on Thursday said that Mohali in Punjab is on its way to become another semiconductor hub in the country as the country begins its chip journey. Congratulating Continental Device India Private Limited (CDIL) for becoming the first Indian company to start production of Silicon Carbide devices for electric vehicles (EVs) while launching the new surface mount semiconductor packaging line, the minister said it is a shining example of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to expand India's electronics manufacturing share in the global electronics supply chain. "Inaugurated and witnessed the growth plan of CDIL at their new cutting-edge surface mount semiconductor packaging line and high-reliability testing lab setup through support of the IT Ministry's SPECS scheme," he posted on X. "Congratulations to CDIL for adding new capacity of 50 million units, making its total annual production capacity of over 550 million units," Chandrasekhar added. The minister virtually inaugurated the new Surface Mount Semiconductor Packaging Line at CDIL's plant in Mohali. CDIL is already producing a wide range of electronic components, including transistors, diodes, rectifiers, MOSFETs, voltage regulators, and other discrete semiconductor devices, the minister informed. CDIL also signed an MoU with the Semi-Conductor Laboratory (SCL), a research institute in Mohali under the IT Ministry, to make Mohali the end-to end semiconductor hub in the country. In just 15 months' time, India has seen the construction of its first-ever semiconductor plant in Sanand, Gujarat, received more manufacturing proposals along with 8 chip designing startups now operational in the country. The first India-made chip from the Rs 22,500 crore Micron plant in Sanand is likely to arrive in December 2024. The Assembly, Test, Marking and Packaging (ATMP) of the company is being set up on 93 acres in Sanand GIDC-II industrial estate and is expected to be commissioned within 18 months. Hyderabad, Sep 28 : The mammoth Ganesh procession passed off peacefully in Hyderabad while immersion of idols was underway on Thursday amid tight security. No untoward incident was reported during the procession which began in the morning while the immersion of idols was continuing in Hussain Sagar lake in the heart of the city and dozens of other lakes and ponds in and around the city. Despite heavy rains lashing parts of the city in the evening, devotees thronged the lakes for the immersions. Hundreds of trucks carrying the idols were lined up around Hussain Sagar lake, the hub of festivities and the immersions is likely to continue till Friday morning. Police have extended traffic restrictions in some parts of the city for the second day. The main procession, which started from Balapur on the southern fringes of the city, reached Hussain Sagar in the afternoon after covering a distance of about 20 km. More than 40,000 policemen were deployed in the Telangana capital for immersion including the main procession which passed through communally sensitive old city. Police top brass kept a tight vigil at historic Mecca Masjid near Charminar to prevent any untoward incident. Several tributary processions joined the main procession, claimed to be the biggest gathering for immersion after Mumbai. A total of 20,600 CCTV cameras were installed and five drone teams were deployed as part of the massive security arrangements for the immersion procession. As the Ganesh immersion coincided with Milad-un-Nabi, police had made elaborate security arrangements, especially in the old city. In a gesture to promote peace and harmony, Muslim organisations postponed Milad procession to Sunday. Scenes of communal harmony were witnessed during festivities as Muslim youth distributed food and water packets among devotees near Charminar. Over 40,000 policemen were deployed in the limits of three police commissionerates a" Hyderabad, Cyberabad and Rachakonda. In addition to the city police, personnel from various districts were drawn. As many as 125 platoons of additional forces, Rapid Action Force (RAF) and paramilitary forces were also kept on standby. Director General of Police Anjani Kumar, Hyderabad Police Commissioner C. V. Anand and other officials monitored the procession from the recently inaugurated war room at the Integrated Police Command Control Centre. Home Minister Mohammed Mehmood Ali, Animal Husbandry Minister T. Srinivas Yadav, the DGP made an aerial survey of the procession in a chopper. Authorities estimate that 70,000 idols will be immersed in Hussain Sagar and other lakes. About four lakh devotees participated in the celebrations. Yadav said that 47 health camps and 15 hospitals were kept on standby for emergency medical services. As many as 34 lakh drinking water packets were kept ready for devotees at 122 stalls. A total of 369 cranes, including 244 mobile cranes, were arranged for immersion of bigger idols. Khairatabad Ganesh, the tallest idol in the city at 63 feet, was immersed in Hussain Sagar around noon. Authorities made special arrangements with heavy cranes for the transport and immersion of the idol, which was made of clay for the second year in a row. Additional security measures were in place due to row over orders prohibiting immersion of Plaster of Paris (PoP) idols in Hussain Sagar and other lakes. For a third consecutive year, immersion of PoP idols was prohibited. The High Court had directed the state government on Monday to ensure that no idols made of PoP are immersed in either Hussain Sagar or any other water bodies in Hyderabad. The authorities were directed to ensure that the idols made of PoP were immersed only in the baby ponds created by the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC). The municipal authorities created 74 baby ponds to facilitate immersion of PoP idols. For immersion in Hussain Sagar, authorities deployed 36 cranes. Three boats and 100 swimmers were also kept ready to deal with any eventuality. About 3,000 sanitation workers were deployed. The mammoth procession brought the entire city to a halt as police had imposed traffic restrictions. Liquor shops and bars remained closed in the limits of all three police commissionerates. New Delhi, Sep 28 : 78th train, carrying 789 pilgrims, departed from Delhi for Ayodhya on Thursday under Delhi government's Mukhyamantri Teerth Yatra scheme. A 'bhajan sandhya' (devotional evening) was organised for pilgrims at Thyagraj Stadium, in the presence of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The Chief Minister lit the ceremonial lamp to start the bhajan sandhya program. Female pilgrims welcomed the Chief Minister and presented him a shawl with the name of Lord Shri Ram on it. The Chief Minister met the pilgrims, inquired about their well-being, and wished them a successful journey. He said that this 78th train is going to Ayodhya carrying the elderly of Delhi for the 'darshan' of Lord Ram. "So far, more than 75,000 elderly residents from Delhi have undertaken pilgrimage journeys, while 4,000 pilgrims have already visited Ram Lalla for darshan from Delhi," the Chief Minister said. "Mukhyamantri Teerth Yatra Scheme has been running for the past few years. Some people have never had the opportunity to go on a pilgrimage as they did not have the means. Some have the means but are entangled in worldly affairs that they never find the time for pilgrimage. Some also have the means but lack a companion for the journey. Everyone has their challenges. This scheme provides an opportunity for everyone to go on a pilgrimage," he said. Delhi's Revenue Minister Atishi also addressed the pilgrims. Aizawl, Sep 28 : A combined team of law enforcing agencies seized heroin and foreign-origin cigarettes valued at Rs Rs 5.67 crore and apprehended five smugglers from different places of Mizoram on Thursday, an official said. Officials said that combined teams of Assam Rifles, Customs Preventive Force, Excise and Narcotics department officials and special narcotics police station (CID-Crime) of Mizoram police in separate operations seized the drugs and the foreign-origin cigarettes from Aizawl and Champhai districts. Five apprehended smugglers have been handed over to the Customs Preventive Force and Excise and Narcotics department for further legal proceedings. Officials said that the heroin and foreign-origin cigarettes were smuggled from neighbouring Myanmar. Ongoing smuggling of contraband items is a major cause of concern for the state of Mizoram and India, an Assam Rifles statement said. It said that the Assam Rifles, rightly christened as the 'Sentinels of Northeast', have continued their efforts against illegal smuggling and has also doubled its efforts to nab the kingpins of the smuggling of contraband items in Mizoram. Hyderabad, Sep 28 : Some policemen deployed for Ganesh immersion procession in Hyderabad on Thursday joined the devotees in celebrations by dancing to some popular numbers. Putting behind the stress of long duty hours and work pressure, some cops had fun with a few steps amid the drumbeats adding luster to the festivities. Videos of the policemen displaying their hidden dancing skills were widely shared on social media. Deployed as part of the massive security for the annual procession, the police personnel could not stop themselves from joining the devotees in the dance. The action of the policemen drew loud cheers from the devotees. Many were surprised to see the other side of the cops. Some felt that the gesture by the cops not only helped them to overcome their stress but also eased the situation by adding fun. Over 40,000 policemen were deployed as part of the massive security arrangements for the Ganesh immersion under three police commissionerates in Greater Hyderabad. Imphal, Sep 28 : The protests against the killings of the two young students in Manipur took a serious turn on Thursday night as the protestors attempted to attack Chief Minister N. Biren Singh's private residence at Heingang in Imphal East district. However, the Chief Minister resides in his heavily guarded official bungalow in Imphal. The protesters also targeted the residences of the state BJP President Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi, and BJP MLA Soraisam Kebi in Imphal East district. The security forces immediately intervened, and fired tear gas shells and smoke bombs to disperse the mobs in all the places. There were some confrontations between the security forces and the protestors, comprising men and women. A huge contingent of Central and state security forces led by top police officials mobilised in both Imphal East and Imphal West districts, where a heavy tense situation prevailed till late Thursday night. One of the protesters alleged that the Chief Minister, other ministers, MLAs and BJP leaders are not doing anything to restore normalcy in Manipur and they have also remained silent against the violent activities of the Kuki militants and their supporters. The protest over the killing of two young students continued for the third day in Manipur on Thursday with mobs burning down a BJP office and vandalising another office of the ruling party in Thoubal district. Protestors also torched two vehicles inside the Deputy Commissioneras office in Imphal and another civilian vehicle, parked nearby the DC office, was set on fire. CRPF personnel brought the situation under control, police said. Though the studentsa protests were more or less peaceful on Thursday, but the mobs, comprising both men and women, turned violent in different places of Manipur since Wednesday night. They burnt down a three-story building, which housed the BJP office at Khongjam and vandalised another at Wangjing in Thoubal district. On Wednesday night, the protesters, defying curfew, clashed with security personnel in Uripok, Yaiskul, Sagolband and Tera areas, prompting the security forces to fire several rounds of tear gas shells to tackle the situation, officials said. The protesters, including women, blocked roads with burning tyres, boulders and iron pipes to prevent the movement of security forces from entering residential areas. Huge contingent of central and state security forces were deployed in various districts while the total curfew was re-imposed in the two districts -- Imphal East and Imphal West. The Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights, meanwhile, urged the security forces not to use baton charge, tear gas shells and rubber bullets "arbitrarily and abruptly" against teenagers. Meanwhile, BJP MLA Rajkumar Imo Singh, in a statement, strongly condemned the actions of the security forces to deal with the agitations in Manipur. "Such acts of barbarism by the Armed Forces cannot be tolerated. Can't they use water cannons and other forms to stop such agitation ? The Armed Forces should be instructed to be more humane in dealing with such kinds of delicate situations. Those involved should be given punishment as per law. I also urge my Manipuri brothers and sisters to not indulge in any form of violence," said Singh, who is the son-in-law of the Biren Singh. "Let us ensure justice is given to the murdered students at the earliest. Most Legislators present in Delhi have already asked the Central government to deliver justice at the earliest. Let us ensure justice is given in the next few days by arresting the culprits involved. And if CBI isn't able to deliver justice within the next few days, let us sit down here in Delhi along with our people to take a new course of action. But let us also ensure that our common cause to save Indigenous people is not diverted, our common cause to ensure that illegal migrants are all detected, action against Insurgent Groups breaking ground rules are taken up, border fencing is completed." At least 100 students, including girls, have been injured during the agitations on Tuesday and Wednesday after they clashed with the security forces, who prevented them from marching towards the Chief Minister's bungalow. The security forces used tear gas shells and smoke bombs to disperse the agitating students. Manipur Police, CRPF and Rapid Action Force personnel have been deployed in large numbers throughout the Imphal Valley in anticipation of possible violence. Seventeen-year-old girl student Hijam Linthoingambi and 20-year-old Phijam Hemjit had gone missing on July 6 during the height of ethnic violence in Manipur and their photographs were circulated in various social media on Monday. Their families suspected that they had been killed by armed assailants. Both the deceased students hailed from Bishnupur district. In view of the studentsa agitations, the state government shut all schools in the state till September 29. The state government on Tuesday also re-imposed the ban on mobile internet services till 7.45 p.m. of October 1 to prevent the spread of misinformation and rumours. On September 23, the internet ban was lifted after more than four months of imposition on May 3 when the ethnic riots began. Bengaluru, Sep 28 : The Cauvery water crisis has once again surfaced in Karnataka with the water tribunals ordering the state to release 3,000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu till October 16. The government is facing a challenge of handling a series of bandhs and protests across the state. The government is also challenged with handling the water crisis in the state. With the release of water to Tamil Nadu, it is almost certain that the standing crops which require 79 TMC of water will not get it. The fulfillment of drinking water needs of Bengaluru city throughout the summer is also going to be another challenge. The requirement of the state for drinking water up to June 2024 is about 33 TMC. Tamil Nadu had demanded for the release of 12,500 cusecs of water. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said that the rains received in August and September were the lowest in 125 years. With BJP and JD (S) joining hands and supporting the bandh, protest and stirs in the state, the Congress government which had dream run till date will also have to ensure law, order and peace in the state, especially in capital city of Bengaluru. In his letter to PM Modi, former prime minister H.D. Deve Gowda had stated that Karnataka state requires 112 TMC of water. "Tamil Nadu's demand for more than 40 TMC of water is gross injustice. The demands are against humanity and natural justice," he said. The Supreme Court had given the final verdict on the Cauvery dispute on June 16, 2018. It earmarked 284.57 TMC for Karnataka, 404 TMC for Tamil Nadu, 10 TMC for Puducherry, and 10 TMC for Kerala. KPCC Spokesperson K.P. Laxman said that it was estimated that a total of 740 TMC of water is generated in the Cauvery basin. It is decided that Karnataka should release 177 TMC of water however there is no rule regarding the distress period. "During droughts, blind decisions are made," he said. He said that according to the Irrigation Act 6 (a), the central government should have discussed the matter in the Lok Sabha and it should have talked about the distribution of water but this was not done. However, as the crisis deepens with the passage of time, the Cauvery crisis is only expected to get worse. The issue has come as a spoiler for the Congress government in Karnataka, which was having a dream run following the implementation of guarantee schemes. Patna, Sep 28 : Four minors drowned to death in Bihar's Nawada district on Thursday as they sought to have a bath in a newly-built pond in their village, police said. The victims were identified as Aayush Kumar, 10, Samir Kumar, 10, Sarwan Kumar, 9, and Ritik Kumar, 8. The accident took place in Gambhirpur village under Warisaliganj police station in the district. The victims jumped in a newly built pond to take bath without realizing its depth. When they started drowning, some local villagers tried to rescue them but failed. The pond was built with government funds to provide facilities to the devotees on Chatth Puja. KYODO NEWS - Sep 28, 2023 - 13:23 | Japan, All Japanese police said Thursday they will introduce artificial intelligence technology to identify social media posts in which people are recruited to commit crimes like robbery and fraud. Starting Friday, the National Police Agency will use AI to look for posts promising large payments for "yami baito," an expression implying shadowy illegal work, coupled with wordings that solicit people to conduct other more specific criminal acts such as transporting or receiving money obtained via fraudulent means. The concept of yami baito grabbed headlines in Japan recently after a group of Japanese men, arrested earlier this year for running scams from the Philippines, was alleged to have recruited individuals via social media to carry out a series of robberies across Japan, with at least one resulting in a murder. The cyber patrol center, an organization unaffiliated with police, is entrusted to conduct the online surveillance work by the agency. Using natural language processing technology, the AI will not only look for specific keywords but also identify posts suspected to contain harmful information based on context, the agency said. For the time being, X, formerly called Twitter, and introduction posts and comments on YouTube videos will be targeted for enhanced surveillance, it said. The center will report the data it collects to another outside organization, the Internet Hotline Center, which can request website operators and internet service providers delete posts it determines to be illegal or harmful. In February, the agency expanded the scope of posts it can request surveillance and deletion following the fatal shooting of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in July 2022. Abe's alleged killer used information found online to build a homemade gun, leading authorities to attempt to remove such content, as well as addressing the rise of crimes carried out by people recruited online. The targets of such requests were previously limited to those linked to drug trafficking, child pornography and inducement of suicide, but the seven newly added categories are associated with crimes that could result in a death. According to the agency, it has requested the deletion of 148 posts between February and June after judging they contain harmful information. Of those, 77 had been deleted by the end of July, with most linked to attempts to recruit people to commit murder and robbery, the agency said. Related coverage: "Luffy" crime ring members charged again for robbery, murder charges Japan crime rises in first half of 2023 as COVID restrictions ease 4 unacquainted teens investigated over Tokyo Rolex store robbery Colombo, Sep 28 : Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Thursday stressed the need to have a comprehensive dialogue between the West and China, the United States and China and the European Union and China as a robust international plan to address the global challenges anticipated in 2024. He complained that the great power rivalries and geopolitics have been an emerging threat to developing countries for open access to trade, investment, capital and etc. "China's Belt and Road Initiative has been labelled as a cohesive program, and the participating countries like Sri Lanka have been looked upon with suspicion. This will further hurt economic prospects in the Global South, and the polarisation will become more evident," the Sri Lankan President said while delivering the opening speech on the first day of the 'Berlin Global' Dialogue in Berlin, Germany. He said that for a country like Sri Lanka, it has learned to live with pressure from America, India, and China. "That's nothing new for us anymore. The United States is witnessing an acrimonious run-up to the 2024 election year, which will detract from its ability to lead in this instance," he said. He said that it is creating a vacuum because if the US wants a new order the US must lead. "We know from now onwards, till end of next year, that leadership will gradually reduce as they start focusing more and more on their 2024 elections. So then what happens to the rest of us? On the other hand, you are finding a challenge to G7 and QUAD, which is the expansion of the BRICS, what you call the BRICS Plus," President Wickremesinghe said adding that the Global South is now looking for alternative leadership and the G20 has been downgraded. Sri Lanka President suggested that in the absence of the United States leadership 2024, EU, together with G20 BRICS, and some selected other Asian and African could bring in the big financial institutions, sit down and find urgent solutions to the financial issues faced by the developing countries. In the backdrop that many developing countries are burdened with substantial debt, President warned that that without immediate corrective measures, the world could be on the brink of another crisis. "The confluences of factors face serious risk for many developing countries. In the global south, we are facing rising import costs, food, energy, insecurity, and the problems of our exports. The resulting balance of payment stress translates into a weaker economy for all of us," President Wickremesinghe said drawing a parallel between the developed countries and those developing. "The difference between the advanced economies and the developing nations is that you all have all the buffers and reserves to deal with these shocks. We haven't. And it's from here that the sovereign debt crisis started." "In this context, I think the world may be on another crisis if corrective measures are not taken immediately. Many developing countries find themselves with large debt burdens," He shared Sri Lanka's experience when declaring bankruptcy, which led to a halt in foreign funding and triggered a political crisis. "For example, IMF has no mechanism to face this new situation. When Sri Lanka declared bankruptcy, all foreign funding ceased and that started the political crisis. It's so bad and there's no way in which you can help any country which declares bankruptcy," President Wickremesinghe said. However, President Wickremesinghe expressed gratitude for the support received from India and Bangladesh in addressing Sri Lanka's recent economic challenges. Bhopal, Sep 28 : The BJP government in Madhya Pradesh, led by Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has already been facing questions over growing crime against women in the state and the latest brutal rape of minor in Ujjain is likely to cause the party more trouble in the run up to the Assembly elections. The horrific incident, in which the minor girl was not only raped but her private part were brutalised and she had to wander from door to door for help for hours, has not just raised questions over law and order situation but also left people angry. More importantly, state Home Minister Narottam Mishra, who leaves no opportunity to attack the opposition when such incident occurred in non-BJP ruled states, is also likely to face resentment of the people due to this incident. The heinous incident occurred in Ujjain, where the visibility of police is expected to be more, compared to other cities, as a large number of people visit to the city everyday to offer their prayer at Mahakaleshwar temple. The Congress, led by state chief Kamal Nath, has been strategically targeting the Chouhan-led MP government majorly on two issues a" corruption in governance and atrocities against SCs/STs along with crime against women. The opposition party now attempting to create an impression that BJP government launched "Ladli Behna Yojana" to hide its failure in protection of women of the state and to win public sympathy for the upcoming Assembly elections. The collapse of six idols of Saptarishis in newly-constructed aMahakal Loka in Ujjain has already come as a major embarrassment for the ruling BJP and now the rape of minor girl in the same city occurred when the elections are just months away. More importantly, the victim hails from Satna in the Vindhya region of the state where the BJP is already facing resentment of the people due to various incidents, including urinating on tribalas face in adjoining Sidhi in July this year. Kamal Nath would hardly miss raising these two issues a" corruption and women's security in Madhya Pradesh. Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who is leading the party poll campaign in Madhya Pradesh, had condemned the Ujjainas incident as "soul-shattering". "This is Madhya Pradeshas law and order and womenas safety? Girls, women, tribals and Dalits are not safe in the 20 years of BJP's misgovernance. What is the use of making election announcements in the name of beloved sister if girls cannot even get protection and help?" she posted on social media According to the NCRBas report, Madhya Pradesh reported most incidents of rapes in the country in 2021 (6,462). Out of them, more than 50 per cent were crimes against minors. The state also topped in crime rate against people belonging to Scheduled Caste (SC). Congress leader and former Chairperson of state women commission Sobha Oza, who along with other party workers staged a protest against the minor girlas rape in Ujjain, said that "the data presented in the Lok Sabha by the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development, from January 1, 2018 to June 30, 2023 (which is in the last five years), 61,102 children went missing in the state, out of which 49,024 are girls and 12,078 are boys." Three days after brutal incident, Ujjain district police on Thursday evening claimed to have arrested the main accused, who has been identified as Bhart Soni, an auto driver. Police said the accused was taken to the crime spot, and tried to escape but got injured after colliding with a concrete wall and has been admitted at government hospital in Ujjain. Responding to the arrest of the accused, CM Chouhan said: "We will leave no stone unturned to give the harshest punishment to accused. Such criminals do not deserve to live in society. He has injured the soul of Madhya Pradesh." Patna, Sep 28 : RJD MLA Manoj Yadav and his supporters were involved in clash with the workers of their own party during a event in Motihari city in Bihar's East Champaran district on Thursday. The entire incident took place in front of the party's national General Secretary Shyam Rajak and three ministers of Bihar government. The event for the Extremely Backward Class (EBC) people was organised under the direction of Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav. The incident was triggered after former Lok Sabha incharge Vinod Srivastava reached the venue with his supporters and was given a seat on the second row on the stage. This led to objections by his supporters and the party leaders accommodated him on the front row. However, his supporters were protesting and paid no heed to Rajak's appeals to maintain peace. At this, Yadav, the MLA from Kalyanpur and district president of the party, lost his cool, jumped down from the dais and attacked former media incharge of the district Sanoj Yadav. Soon, his security man and supporters also beat Sanoj Yadav and other supporters of Srivastava and the two sides were involved in a free for all, kicking and punching each other. Bengaluru, Sep 28 : Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara on Thursday said that the critical Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) education programme will be included in all the police training academies of the state. Addressing the gathering after launching SOS QR code and CPR education programme of the Manipal Hospitals in Bengaluru -- on the occasion of the World Heart Day, which will be celebrated on September 29, he said that he will also take the initiative up with the government to teach students about CPR. "I will take this up with the government. As Home Minister I promise, we will initiate this with all the training schools for the police in the state. We teach law, weaponry, how to handle crowds, how to face challenges. The state has more than 12 Police Training Academies. I will initiate this in all of them to train police about CPR. We will include this as part of the training programme," he said. He said that large number of deaths, at least 30 per cent, occur due to cardiac arrest. "That's the statistics I read. You can imagine what is happening with the health sector and also our living. The living style in the Indian way in the Indian context is definitely different from others," he said. He said that we need to look at these issues from an Indian perspective not from a western perspective. "We eat differently and different things. We live differently. The people, especially working class, executives, politicians, we live in a different atmosphere. We always have stress. We always live with challenges and go through it unknowingly," he said. Minister for Health Dinesh Gundu Rao who also attended the programme said that that the government has initiated to teach the CPR to the students and it's going to be part of the new curriculum. "Young people should become more aware of it and should know how to perform the. Every life is important," he said. Manipal Hospitals has proposed to the Government of Karnataka to make CPR education mandatory at all education institutions and civic bodies. Besides 37 traffic signals, the QR code will be placed near institution gates, corporate buildings, school buses, and yellow construction helmets for easy accessibility to medical help. Sudarshan Ballal, Chairman of Manipal Hospitals, said: "At Manipal Hospitals, our mission has always been to provide world-class healthcare services. The introduction of the SOS QR code and CPR education initiative aligns with our commitment to transforming Bengaluru into a Heart Smart City. We believe that by enhancing cardiac care, we can make a significant difference in the lives of our patients." Jaipur, Sep 28 : A day after Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP President J.P. Nadda held a party meeting in Jaipur, Vasundhara Raje faction leader Devi Singh Bhati returned to the party on Thursday. Bhati rejoined the BJP in the presence of state party President C.P. Joshi, Leader of Opposition Rajendra Rathore and in-charge Arun Singh. "I have returned to BJP after 5 years. The party has embraced me. Due to certain circumstances I was separated at some point. I had discussions with senior officials. Whatever grievances there were have gone away. I have also spoken to Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal. We both are satisfied. Together we will form the BJP government in 2023," he said. Bhati had left the party after being unhappy with Meghwal being made the candidate from Bikaner in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. He had openly campaigned against Meghwal. Meanwhile, since last many months, there was talk of his returning to the party and on Thursday, he came back. Bhati was elected MLA for the first time from Kolayat assembly constituency in 1980. Since then, he had been continuously elected as MLA from this seat till 2008. He lost the election in 2013. In 2018, BJP had given ticket to his daughter-in-law Poonam Kanwar, but she too lost the election to Congress candidate Bhanwar Singh Bhati. Bhopal, Sep 28 : Sitting BJP MLA Akash Vijayvargiya, the son of party's national General Secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya, staged a protest at party headquarters here on Thursday, demanding he also be fielded in the coming Assembly polls, along with the father. Around 100 supporters of Akash Vijayvargiya came to Bhopal in three buses from Indore and barged into the BJP headquarters chanting slogans in his support, demanding that he should be given ticket for the upcoming Assembly election. Sources told IANS that a group of supporters met Union Minister and state election in-charge Bhupendra Yadav and said Akash Vijayvargiya has served the people of Indore and he should be given ticket again. Akash Vijayvargiya is sitting MLA from Indore-3 Assembly seat. The party has fielded his father from Indore-1. Since the day, the BJP released its first list, which included the name of Kailash Vijayvargiya and three Union Ministers - Narendra Singh Tomar, Faggan Singh Kulaste, and Prahlad Patel, resentment has started among Akash Vijayvargiya's supporters. Even Kailash Vijayvargiya has openly said that he wasn't planed to contest the Assembly election. As the party has given ticket to senior Vijayvargiya, there is possibility that his son would not get the ticket. The BJP has so far fielded 79 candidates for total 230 Assembly seats in Madhya Pradesh, while the Congress yet to relase its list. Amsterdam, Sep 28 : At least two persons have been killed in twin shooting incidents in Rotterdam in the Netherlands, the media reported on Thursday, citing authorities. A gunman first opened fire at a house and then at a university medical centre, the BBC reported. Two individuals -- a 39-year-old woman, and a 42-year-old teacher, were killed in the two locations. A police officer told the media that the 14-year-old daughter of the woman was also shot and is seriously injured, the BBC reported. According to reports, a 32-year-old man has been arrested, following which he was taken into custody. Armed forces gathered around the Erasmus University Medical Centre, while medical staff and patients left the buildings. In some visuals, the staff at the university were seen fleeing the medical facility as the police personnel conducted a raid. An official said the accused's motive behind the shooting is yet to be known, the BBC reported. The police said that the suspect was a student at the Erasmus University Medical Centre, where the shooting took place. Sangrur, Sep 28 : Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday said that life and philosophy of Shaheed Bhagat Singh will ever inspire youth to serve the country selflessly. The Chief Minister, while addressing the gathering during Ek Sham Shaheedan de Naam here, said that numerous sacrifices were made for emancipating the country from the foreign imperialism. He said, "We have done nothing for the country as compared to these legends". Mann said that Britishers didn't loot India as much as the Indian rulers did in post freedom period. The Chief Minister said that now the things are being streamlined and efforts are being made to make the state a front runner one in the country. He said that 18 months since he has assumed the charge of office his government is making strenuous efforts for putting the state back on track of growth. Mann said that all of us should exercise our franchise wisely as the onus of building the country lies on our shoulders." The Chief Minister said Shaheed Bhagat Singh sacrificed his life at the altar of motherland in a very young age. He said that supreme sacrifice made by him has inspired millions of youth to lay down their lives for the sake of freedom of the country. Mann said that youth must take inspiration from the great martyr to do selfless service of the nation. The Chief Minister called upon youth to follow the footsteps of the great national heroes to serve the country. He said that such functions must be held across the nook and corner of the state to perpetuate the legacy of martyrs. Mann said that his country is making every effort for realising the dream of the martyrs, who laid their life for sake of motherland. New Delhi, Sep 28 : Some filmmakers do get carried away with adulation from a section of movie-watchers who are out and out rabid supporters of an ideology. For obvious reasons, their captive audience is charged up and won't listen to any contrarian opinion from another group of followers. I am all for political affiliation, but when it comes to the arts, such loyalties should not interfere with the body of your work to the extent that it degenerates into propaganda. Vivek Agnihotri, who is hellbent upon proving his loyalty to the present ruling dispensation, has been making movies with a single-point agenda: to flag as biased an opinion that is contrary to the one he professes and rewrite history to suit his extreme right-wing beliefs. Two of his earlier films, The Kashmir Files and The Tashkent Files, tried to create the myth that he believes is nothing but the truth. Really? For obvious reasons, he has scant regard for some of our most illustrious historians. And he propagates his own prejudiced one-sided viewpoint with ludicrous justifications. His latest, 'The Vaccine War', has an interesting premise: to project India as the saviour of the world during the Covid-19 pandemic that killed thousands of people globally. Also hailed are India's unsung heroes, primarily all the doctors, nurses and support staff, and the unacknowledged scientistsm who were mostly women. We all know that these warriors struggled, fought and spent sleepless nights and endeavoured to develop vaccines indigenously. So far so good. The film is based on former ICMR director-general Dr Balram Bhargava's book, 'Going Viral: Making Covaxin', that digs deep into the lives of the scientific community. It deteriorates into the vortex of propaganda and underscores Agnihotrias personal single-point agenda of broadcasting and proliferating baseless right-wing entitlements and assertions. What the film does is malign those journalists who rightly questioned the ruling party's grand claims of being capable of producing the vaccine. So naturally, they are the antagonists. Picture this. A high-profile television scribe who's the science reporter Rohini Dhulia (Raima Sen) is dubbed "enemy" only because she does her job, questions the establishment and follows the tenets of journalism. She seems to be the only one raising uncomfortable questions about the claims of the vaccine's efficacy. She represents the independent media, but as was to be expected, she is proven wrong when she questions Dr Bhargava (played by Nana Patekar) about the secrecy that surrounded the business of the making and distributing the vaccine. Towards the end of this 160-minute film, Dr Bhargava humiliates her publicly and calls her a "terrorist", which is the message that Agnihotri sends across about journalists who still believe in the principles of journalism. The probing journalist is shown as someone who is against the policy of self-reliance ('atma nirbharta') and makes every possible effort to prevent the honourable task of manufacturing the vaccine in India. Priya Abraham (Pallavi Joshi) is the head of the Pune-based National Institute of Virology and, like Bhargava, is forever at war with the media, and brands all the stories coming out in the press as an "information war". If Rohini is seen as the chief villain, the eccentric Dr Bhargava has a dedicated team of women scientists: Priya Abraham (Pallavi Joshi), Pragya Yadav (Nivedita Bhattacharya) and Nivedita Gupta (Girija Oak), all holding responsible positions as scientists and working tirelessly day and night to achieve their desired goal. Together, they all look convincing and focus on what is described as India's first film on "bio-science war". The film's focuses, of course, on the disastrous effects of Covid-19. It also tries to educate us about how India managed to make the vaccine in just seven months, a fact that was questioned by even the World Health Organisation (WHO) before it mysteriously changed it opinion. Even as he underlines the film's "honest and truthful" tone, Agnihotri only succeeds in stoking nationalist sentiments and maligning journalists. The screenplay replaces the pursuit of the truth with a penchant for melodrama. What got my goat is the unsubstantiated declaration that it was for the first time that India made a vaccine independently, whereas the NIV has been around since 1952 (till 1978 as the Virus Research Centre). Lensman Udaysingh Mohite ensures all labs are made to look first rate. One has just seen 'Oppenheimer', another science-based film. It is far more impactful with the characters looking as stoic as they get. That's Hollywood for you. Closer home, our actors need to have the emotional connect for viewers to feel charged up. And so, tight close-ups prove that the scientists and frontline workers are having a tough time, neglecting their families and being devoted to a job that's in the national interest. Mercifully, music is restricted to the background score and a song that also plays in the background. Who's going to tell Agnihotri that vaccines have been produced in India for over a century. The Serum Institute of India, maker of Covishield, has developed at least four indigenous vaccines -- anti-tetanus, anti-snake venom, anti-diphtheria and MMP (measles, mumps and rubella). India developed the smallpox vaccine in 1965, oral polio vaccine in 1970 and the H1N1 vaccine in 2009. In any case, Covaxin wouldn't have happened without systems and capacities being built over 70 years. India has been a world leader in generics and biosimilars for decades before Agnihotri started making films! So what is he tom-tomming about? Many feature films or period cinema are treated as chronicles of the world. I am afraid 'The Vaccine War' is nothing but slanted, distorted and propagandist torture all the way. Film: The Vaccine War Duration: 160 minutes Director: Vivek Agnihotri Cast: Nana Patekar, Pallavi Joshi and Nivedita Bhattacharya Cinematography: Udaysingh Mohite Music: Rohit Sharma, Vanraj Bhatia, Swapnil Bandodkar and Shreya Kaul IANS Rating: *1/2 Washington, Sep 29 : External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a wide range of discussions on the India-US relationship in a string of meetings with top US officials on Thursday, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan. "We thank the US for all the support to the G20 summit," Jaishankar said to reporters before the meeting with Blinken. "And I actually look forward to seeing you (Blinken) in Delhi." Blinken and Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin will travel to New Delhi for the annual 2+2 ministerial meeting, which is being hosted this year by India. "We've had very good discussions over the last weeks, of course at the G20, in New York and the General Assembly," Blinken said at the press availability. Jaishankar is in Washington for the second leg of his US tour, which started in New York where he led the Indian delegation at the annual UN General Assembly meetings. Jaishankar started his meeting with National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan at the White House during which the two officials "recognized the tremendous progress in our bilateral relationship this year and discussed taking it forward", as the External Affairs Minister posted on X. Next, he met the US Trade Representative Katherine Tai. They discussed "expanding trade and economic relationship and its broader significance". US readouts of these meetings were expected later in the day. The diplomatic row triggered by Canada has dogged the Indian Foreign Minister's visit, especially because the US played a role in it. Reportedly, one of the member countries of the 'Five Eyes' intelligence sharing agreement between the US, the UK, Canada, New Zealand and Australia provided key intelligence that was used by Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to accuse New Delhi of involvement in the killing of a Khalistani terrorist in Canada in June. And that member country was the US reportedly. India has dismissed the allegation as "absurd". The US has supported the Canadian investigation and urged India to cooperate. By Takuya Karube, KYODO NEWS - Sep 28, 2023 - 09:31 | World, All The United States on Wednesday secured the return of an Army soldier who crossed the heavily armed border into North Korea from South Korea more than two months ago, senior White House officials said. The confirmation came hours after North Korea announced it had expelled the soldier, Travis King, based on the country's law after he admitted to "illegally" entering its territory. U.S. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said King has already departed from Osan Air Base in South Korea to return home after being transferred through China with the help of Sweden, which has long served as the protecting power for the United States in North Korea. A senior U.S. official said King "appears to be in good health and good spirits." Miller told a press briefing that the 23-year-old soldier was received by the U.S. ambassador to China, Nicholas Burns, at Dandong, a Chinese city on the border with North Korea, and was flown to the air base via Shenyang. The soldier, a private second class in the U.S. Army, dashed into North Korea without authorization on July 18 after he was on a civilian tour to the Joint Security Area in the Demilitarized Zone dividing the two Koreas. U.S. President Joe Biden's top national security aide Jake Sullivan issued a statement thanking China for its assistance in facilitating the transit of King and Sweden for its diplomatic role. The senior officials said they heard earlier this month from Sweden that North Korea wanted to release King. Since then, the officials said, multiple government agencies have been working intensely to secure his safe return home. They said the Biden administration will first focus on King's health after his return, leaving questions about his administrative status, including whether he will be punished, to be handled later. The North's official Korean Central News Agency said King confessed that he had "illegally intruded" into its territory as he "harbored ill feeling against inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination" within the army. KCNA said King, who is black, was also "disillusioned about the unequal U.S. society," citing North Korea's concluded probe into his case. The expulsion came amid long-running tensions between the United States and North Korea, which do not have diplomatic relations, and no signs of resuming talks over Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs. North Korea has a track record of detaining foreigners to use as bargaining chips in disputes with the United States and other countries. Compared with past cases, North Korea's decision to release King -- who became the first U.S. national known to be detained in the reclusive country in about five years -- came relatively quickly. One of the senior officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, stressed that no concessions were given by the United States to North Korea to secure his release, adding that Washington "remains very open to the possibility of diplomacy" with Pyongyang. A day before crossing the border, King, who was convicted of assault in South Korea, was supposed to board a commercial flight to Texas after being released from a detention facility and was due to face disciplinary action by the U.S. military. He was escorted by the military to Incheon International Airport near Seoul on July 17 but later left the facility by himself and joined the tour of the inter-Korean truce village of Panmunjeom. Related coverage: North Korea says U.S. soldier who crossed border is seeking refuge U.S. soldier crosses inter-Korean border into N. Korea Sambhal, Sep 29 : A school teacher was arrested in Uttar Pradesh's Sambhal district on Thursday for inciting communal hatred after she allegedly ordered a Muslim student to slap a Hindu classmate for not answering a question. The incident took place at a private school on Tuesday in Dugawar village under the Asmoli police station limits of the district. A complaint was filed by the Hindu boy's father after which the teacher, Shaista, was booked under IPC sections 153A (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, etc) and 323 (voluntarily causing hurt). Additional SP Shrish Chandra said that the accused teacher has been arrested. The boy's father alleged that his son is a student of Class 5 in the school where his class teacher got him slapped by a Muslim student after he could not answer a question asked by her. In his complaint, the father said that this hurt his son's religious feelings. A probe is on in the matter, Additional SP Chandra said. In a similar incident at Khubbapur village in Muzaffarnagar last month, a teacher of a private school had got a Muslim child slapped in a class by his classmates for not doing homework. A case was registered against the accused teacher, Tripta Tyagi, under IPC sections 323 (voluntary causing hurt) and 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace). The Supreme Court on September 25 said that there cannot be any quality education if a student is sought to be penalised on the ground that he belongs to a particular community and it pulled up the Uttar Pradesh government for a shoddy probe in the Muzaffarnagar case. The top court directed the state government to appoint a senior IPS officer within a week to probe the incident. Washington, Sep 29 : US House Republicans have opened the first impeachment inquiry hearing against President Joe Biden, weeks after Speaker Kevin McCarthy made the call. Republicans have accused Biden of trading on the power of his office when he was Vice President to help his son Hunter Biden secure lucrative foreign business deals, and of benefiting personally from the "corruption". McCarthy on September 12 requested to open an impeachment inquiry into the President. At the hearing led by the US House of Representatives Oversight Committee on Thursday, James Comer, the committee chair, said that Biden has "lied about family members' business dealings", Xinhua news agency reported. "The American people demand accountability for this culture of corruption," Comer said. Democrats said there was no evidence that Biden had received any of those payments, or had been involved in his son's business ventures. Democrat Representative Jamie Raskin slammed that his Republican colleagues presented 12,000 pages of bank records which didn't include a "single dime" going to the President. One of the panel's expert witnesses, law professor Jonathan Turley, also acknowledged that the evidence Republicans had gathered so far doesn't prove their case. The White House has repeatedly rejected the House GOP's assertion that Biden abused the power of his office to enrich his family. On the eve of Thursday's hearing, the White House released a 15-page memo refuting GOP allegations. Ian Sams, the White House spokesperson for oversight and investigations, said in a statement Tuesday that Republicans were simply trying to distract from the looming government shutdown that could begin this weekend if Congress failed to pass a spending bill. Aitape Airport, Aitape, Papua New Guinea [ ATP / ] If you are planning to travel to Aitape or any other city in Papua New Guinea, this airport locator will be a very useful tool. This page gives complete information about the Aitape Airport along with the airport location map, Time Zone, lattitude and longitude, Current time and date, hotels near the airport etc... Aitape Airport Map showing the location of this airport in Papua New Guinea. Aitape Airport IATA Code, ICAO Code, exchange rate etc... is also provided. Aitape Airport Info: Aitape Airport IATA Code: ATP Aitape Airport ICAO Code: Latitude : -3.13333 Longitude : 142.35 City : Aitape Country : Papua New Guinea World Area Code : 804 Airport Type : Small Aitape Airport Address / Contact Details : Aitape (ATP), Papua New Guinea Timezone : Pacific/Port_Moresby Aitape Airport Timezone : GMT +10:00 hours Current time and date at Aitape Airport is 11:48:28 AM (+10) on Thursday, Nov 2, 2023 Looking for information on Aitape Airport, Aitape, Papua New Guinea? Know about Aitape Airport in detail. Find out the location of Aitape Airport on Papua New Guinea map and also find out airports near to Aitape. This airport locator is a very useful tool for travelers to know where is Aitape Airport located and also provide information like hotels near Aitape Airport, airlines operating to Aitape Airport etc... IATA Code and ICAO Code of all airports in Papua New Guinea. Scroll down to know more about Aitape Airport or Aitape Airport, Papua New Guinea. Aitape Airport Map - Location of Aitape Airport Load Map Papua New Guinea - General Information Country Formal Name Independent State of Papua New Guinea Country Code PG Capital Port Moresby Currency Kina (PGK) 1 PGK = 0.269 USD 1 USD = 3.714 PGK 1 PGK = 0.254 EUR 1 EUR = 3.932 PGK More PGK convertion rates Tel Code +675 Top Level Domain .pg This page provides all the information you need to know about Aitape Airport, Papua New Guinea. This page is created with the aim of helping travelers and tourists visiting Papua New Guinea or traveling to Aitape Airport. Details about Aitape Airport given here include Aitape Airport Code - IATA Code (3 letter airport codes) and ICAO Code (4 letter airport codes) Coordinates of Aitape Airport - Latitude and Longitude (Lat and Long) of Aitape Airport Location of Aitape Airport - City Name, Country, Country Codes etc... Aitape Airport Time Zone and Current time at Aitape Airport Address and contact details of Aitape Airport along with website address of the airport Clickable Location Map of Aitape Airport on Google Map. General information about Papua New Guinea where Aitape Airport is located in the city of Aitape. General information include capital of Papua New Guinea, currency and conversion rate of Papua New Guinea currency, Telephone Country code, exchange rate against US Dollar and Euro in case of major world currencies etc... ATP - Aitape Airport IATA Code Arrow Capital Partners has promoted Malgorzata de la Torre to Head of Spain. In this role, de la Torre will be responsible for managing all aspects of the investment and development programme in Spain. She joined Arrow in 2020 as Head of Acquisitions and since then has overseen more than 200 milli... [] "Before traveling overseas with a dog, pet parents should ask their for the leptospirosis vaccine," said Woolf. Vaccination protects dogs for 12 months." --Walter M. Woolf, VMD, Air Animal founder and veterinarian Post this Before leaving, pet parents must make sure their pets meet the requirements of the destination country and the United States if returning. if returning. Failure to meet the requirements may cause the pet to be refused entry. Health certificates must be legible, accurate, and complete. Taking a pet bird or exotic animal out of the United States may involve multiple agencies. You must meet ALL requirements for each agency before traveling or returning with a pet bird or exotic animal. Airlines establish their own policies for transporting pets. Check with your airline or shipping representative to determine their requirements. For example, many countries only accept appropriately vaccinated, treated and certified dogs and cats. Many don't accept rabbits from the United States because of Rabbit Hemorrhagic Virus. 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Media Contact Karen Frashier, Air Animal Pet Movers, 8133752663, [email protected], airanimal.com Twitter Facebook SOURCE Air Animal Pet Movers The delegation headed by Prosecutor General of Azerbaijan Kamran Aliyev was on a business trip to London to participate in the 28th annual conference and general meeting of the International Association of Prosecutors, Azernews reports, citing the prosecutor's office. Speaking at the solemn flag ceremony of the Association, the Prosecutor General officially accepted the flag of the organization and invited the participants of the event to the 29th Conference of World Prosecutors to be held in Baku in September 2024. Afterward, a video showing national-cultural and historical monuments of Azerbaijan, including Baku, was presented to the participants of the event, and brochures and information booklets were distributed. During the visit, the Prosecutor General met with Max Hill, Head of the Royal Prosecutor's Office of Great Britain. The necessity to expand ties between Azerbaijani law enforcement bodies, and cooperation in combating organized crime, especially illegal migration, human trafficking, and drug trafficking was discussed. Kamran Aliyev expressed gratitude for the prosecution and conviction of members of the radical religious group that attacked the administrative building of the Azerbaijani Embassy in London on 4 August last year, as well as for close cooperation with the Azerbaijani Prosecutor's Office in this matter. At the meeting of the Prosecutor General with the head of the extradition department of the Ministry of Interior of the Kingdom Harj Dersi, the issue of transfer of persons accused of committing a crime and put on the international wanted list was discussed, and an agreement was reached on joint actions and close cooperation in this field. In addition, at the meeting with Singapore Prosecutor General Lucien Wong, Kamran Aliyev gave detailed information to his counterpart about the work done in the direction of a systematic fight against corruption in Azerbaijan as a result of large-scale reforms implemented by the Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. Lucien Wong expressed gratitude for successful mutual cooperation and inquired about the preparation of the Conference of World Prosecutors to be held in Azerbaijan in 2024. The Prosecutor General also held meetings with his colleagues from the USA, Brazil, Austria, United Arab Emirates, Ukraine, Mongolia, and other countries and informed them about the local anti-terrorist activities carried out in the Garabagh economic region of Azerbaijan. A regular meeting of the special group of the Association's Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Network chaired by Azerbaijan was held within the framework of the conference. During the event, which was attended by leading officials and other representatives of prosecutor's offices of a number of countries as international experts, international cooperation in the field of combating corruption offenses, parallel financial investigations, and asset recovery was held. The meeting was chaired by Isfandiyar Hajiyev, Head of the Anti-Corruption Department of the Prosecutor General's Office, and was honored with the Association's Award of Merit. During the visit, members of the Azerbaijan team held business meetings with colleagues from a number of countries and exchanged ideas on prospects for cooperation. The working trip of the delegation of the General Prosecutor's Office to London was completed. ISTANBUL, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Two people were killed and four others injured on Thursday in an explosion in Turkiye's largest city Istanbul, according to the Istanbul Governor's Office. In a written statement, the office said the explosion took place in a building in Bahcelievler District on the European side of the city and was caused by natural gas compression. One of the injured is in critical condition, the office added. Meanwhile, firefighters and healthcare units were dispatched to the scene while police cordoned off the street. According to Turkish broadcaster NTV, firefighters took measures to stop the fire caused by the explosion from spreading to nearby buildings and evacuated some of these buildings as a precaution. The explosion also caused the building's debris to fall onto automobiles, the NTV reported, adding that an investigation into the incident has been launched. RIYADH, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- The official celebrations of World Tourism Day 2023, co-hosted by Saudi Arabia and the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), kicked off on Wednesday in Riyadh, the kingdom's capital. The events, with the theme of "Tourism and Green Investments," have brought together more than 500 government officials, tourism leaders, and experts representing 120 countries, according to the official Saudi Press Agency. During the opening ceremony, Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed al-Khateeb said this year's celebrations are the largest in the 43-year history of World Tourism Day. The minister also highlighted tourism as one of the world's most vital economic sectors and called for international cooperation to foster balanced and equitable growth in the sector. Al-Khateeb stressed that the Saudi government has welcomed foreign investments in tourism and assisted private companies in accessing global capital to "build facilities that visitors expect and need in Saudi Arabia." Also at the ceremony, UNWTO Secretary General Zurab Pololikashvili said that "on this World Tourism Day, we celebrate tourism's ability to drive growth while also highlighting the vital need for investments to ensure such growth is inclusive and sustainable." The first World Tourism Day was held in 1980. The date of Sept. 27 marks the day the Statutes of the Organization that became the UNWTO were signed. The California Independent Booksellers Alliance commenced its Fall Fest on September 27 in South San Francisco, a centrally located site that hosted booksellers prior to the merger between the Northern and Southern California Independent Bookseller Associations. According to CALIBA coexecutive director Ann Seaton, 230 booksellers preregistered for 2023s gatheringabout 100 more preregistrants than 2022s meeting in Sacramento. (Numbers for day-of-show registrants were still being tallied at press time.) Its been a year to finally get back, exclaimed CALIBA board president Melinda Powers (Bookshop Santa Cruz) at the membership meeting. CALIBA treasurer Mimi Hannan (La Playa Books, Point Loma, Calif.) proclaimed the organization financially healthy and noted that the board had voted to create a rainy-day fund in case of leaner times. Were keeping a close eye on our budget and especially creating programs that are most helpful to our bookstore members and our vendors, Hannan said. Linda McLoughlin Figel, owner of Pages: A Bookstore (Manhattan Beach, Calif.), noted that with attendance up and CALIBA back in South San Francisco, the gathering brought together represented the full merger of the Northern and Southern California IBAs. CALIBAs next Fall Fest will take place Sept. 1718 in Pasadena. Education and Exhibits On the first of two days at CALIBA, booksellers got tips for using Edelweiss analytics and participated in roundtables on handselling and building better book clubs. They learned about Ingrams integration of the Geek+ warehouse automation system in LaVergne, Tenn., the move of its print-on-demand facility from Allentown to Chambersburg, Pa., and updates to its ipage system. LaVergne is going to be in a state of flux for eight to ten months while the autonomous system is installed, and Ingram is working to take some volume away from LaVergne by warehousing books at Fort Wayne, Ind., said Ingram director of sales Ron Smithson. More than 40 exhibitors were on hand to meet booksellers. CALIBAs exhibit hall opened in the afternoon, giving everyone a chance to browse ARCs and finished copies and to catch up with vendors, authors, and friends. Nathan Halter, program manager at Batch for Books, reported that more bookstores have signed on with the Batch payment and data administration system. The system has grown from about 100 users in May 2022 to approximately 250 currently. Audiobook company Libro.fm has been expanding its reach too. Publicity director Albee Romero said Libro.fm now has members in 65 countries and bookstore affiliates in 50 countries, and is running promotions in conjunction with independent bookshop days in Australia, New Zealand, and the U.K. At Bookshop.orgs table, senior partnerships manager Sarah High and partnerships assistant Justin Walls were slinging print copies of Lydia Daviss Our Strangers (out Oct. 3), the first and so far only book published by the etail service. Preorders have been strong enough that Bookshop has ordered a second printing. Meanwhile, work continues apace on Bookshops planned ebook app. According to High, the company is in the process of hiring to build the ebook platform right now and aiming for a March release. Publishers and distributors had a wealth of fall picks to share. IPG is banking on two books from Chicago Review PressThe Final Witness, by former John F. Kennedy secret service agent Paul Landis (Chicago Review Press, Oct.), and Jack Ruby, by Danny Fingeroth (Nov.)timed to coincide with the 60th anniversary of JFKs assassination this year. They also want to raise the profile of Dont Let Them Bury My Story, cowritten by Viola Ford Fletcher and her grandson Ike Howard and published by Mocha Media; Fletcher, who is 109, is the oldest living survivor of the murderous 1921 event known as the Tulsa Race Massacre. Blackstone Publishing, known for high-octane thrillers, detective fiction, and sci-fi, is touting an idiosyncratic forthcoming title as well: Robert Downey Jr. and Thomas Kostigens Cool Food: Erasing Your Carbon Footprint One Bite at a Time (Jan. 2024). If Iron Man fans didnt know that Downey believes in environmentally sustainable eating habits and has the recipes to prove it, they will now. Purdue University has been named one of the Worlds Most Innovative Companies for its advances in the vital field of semiconductors, the tiny electronics that power almost everything with an on switch from NASAs telescopes to Disneys animatronic princesses. Ranked by Fast Company, Purdue comes in at No. 16 overall and No. 1 in education. (Purdue University photo/Kelsey Lefever) Only university ranked, Purdue recognized for strides in building the semiconductor workforce and research of the future WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. Purdue University, for the first time, has been named one of the Worlds Most Innovative Companies coming in at No. 16 overall and No. 1 in education for its advances in the vital field of semiconductors and microelectronics. The only university among Fast Company magazines prestigious Top 50 Most Innovative Companies, No. 16 Purdue follows OpenAI (at No. 1, developer of ChatGPT and Dall-E) and leads NASA (No. 17) and The Walt Disney Company (No. 25) as organizations paving the way for the innovations of tomorrow and setting the standard with some of the greatest accomplishments of the modern world. Overall, the list acknowledges 540 organizations across 54 categories and regions around the world. Fast Company cited Purdue as a renowned and globally recognized leader in developing a robust and comprehensive program addressing semiconductors through their life cycle from research to training to fabrication to the workforce. The tiny electronics that power almost everything with an on switch and the workforce that keeps them functioning are vital to almost every industry and product on Fast Companys list, from NASAs telescopes to Disneys animatronic princesses. Without chips today, it would be like living in the 1940s, said Mark Lundstrom, senior advisor to the Purdue president and the universitys chief semiconductor officer. Chips are the most sophisticated technology that human beings produce, and it takes a highly educated workforce to manufacture them. Purdue is responding with innovation and initiative to prepare the industrys next generation. By 2027 the nation will need a minimum of 50,000 trained semiconductor engineers to meet an accelerating demand for the tiny electronic devices that put the smart into our smartphones, cars and medical devices not to mention our nations military and defense technologies. Purdue answered the call by launching the Semiconductor Degrees Program, a suite of degrees and credentials to enable a quick ramp-up of in-demand skilled talent and create the next generation of semiconductor experts and personnel to reassert American preeminence in this critical industry. The graduates from these programs from PhDs to associate degree-holders will be at the forefront of innovation as we revitalize American manufacturing, said Gina M. Raimondo, U.S. Secretary of Commerce, during a 2022 tour of campus research facilities. Purdue innovation is helping lead the way in addressing this world issue. Not only is Purdues Semiconductor Degrees Program the only large-scale, interdisciplinary semiconductor degree program available in the United States, but it also touts a number of features not found in any other educational program. This includes a host of collaborative opportunities, such as the Department of Defenses microelectronics workforce development initiative, SCALE (Scalable Asymmetric Lifecycle Engagement). SCALE, headed by Purdues College of Engineering, brings together faculty from 16 other universities and experts from 34 additional industry partners including the Department of Defense, NASA and the Department of Energys National Nuclear Security Administration to give students access to internships, careers and cutting-edge research opportunities in semiconductors. The federally funded $30 million SCALE program will increase potential enrollment from 200 to 1,000 students, increasing access and allowing development of a K-12 learning model. Purdue has also partnered with Ivy Tech Community College, the nations largest singly accredited statewide community college system, to develop industry-driven credentials and experience programs. The collaboration brings Purdues resources to populations that may not have had access to this type of program while upskilling a motivated workforce. Investments in the future of the workforce have also drawn innovative neighbors to Purdue. U.S.-owned semiconductor manufacturer SkyWater Technology and Taiwans MediaTek Inc., the worlds fourth-largest chip designer by revenue, have each announced partnerships with Purdue in the last year. SkyWater plans to open a $1.8 billion state-of-the-art semiconductor manufacturing facility in Discovery Park District at Purdue, a 400-acre, mixed-use development adjacent to campus. This will provide investing companies access to both Purdue University faculty experts and highly sought-after graduates prepared to work in the industry. Building the companys first semiconductor chip design center in the Midwest, and the first to be housed directly on a university campus, MediaTek Inc. will provide an opportunity for students to complete their engineering education and contribute directly to product design and solutions for a global team. Purdue has been named a Fast Company Brand That Matters for two years in a row the only university on the list both years. The annual designation honors organizations for communicating their brands mission and ideals with intention and authenticity. Purdue also has enjoyed five consecutive years as a top 10 Most Innovative university as designated by U.S. News & World Report. In addition to the now-iconic tuition freeze, which is entering its 12th consecutive year, Purdue was named the countrys No. 4 most trusted public university by Morning Consult and is recognized as a top 10 public university by The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education. It boasts 34 academic programs ranked in the top 10 by U.S. News & World Report, including No. 1 graduate programs in agricultural and biological engineering, and analytical chemistry, and No. 1 online masters programs in electrical engineering, industrial engineering, mechanical engineering and engineering management. It is exciting for Purdue to be recognized in such a public channel for excellence at scale: generating talent, jobs and knowledge together, and for the benefit of Indiana and America, said Purdue President Mung Chiang. "We strive to be the most consequential public university in creating, disseminating and deploying knowledge in areas making the most significant difference in society. In particular, we will keep pushing the frontiers of semiconductors learning, research and industry partnership. The March/April issue of Fast Company magazine, including the complete list of the Worlds 50 Most Innovative Companies, is available online now and will be on newsstands beginning March 14. Additional coverage of Purdue, including an interview with President Chiang, will appear in the May/June Fast Company print issue, which will be on newsstands beginning May 9. About Purdue University Purdue University is a top public research institution developing practical solutions to todays toughest challenges. Ranked in each of the last five years as one of the 10 Most Innovative universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, Purdue delivers world-changing research and out-of-this-world discovery. Committed to hands-on and online, real-world learning, Purdue offers a transformative education to all. Committed to affordability and accessibility, Purdue has frozen tuition and most fees at 2012-13 levels, enabling more students than ever to graduate debt-free. See how Purdue never stops in the persistent pursuit of the next giant leap at https://purdue.edu/. About Fast Company Fast Company is the only media brand fully dedicated to the vital intersection of business, innovation, and design, engaging the most influential leaders, companies, and thinkers on the future of business. Headquartered in New York City, Fast Company is published by Mansueto Ventures LLC, along with our sister publication Inc., and can be found online at https://www.fastcompany.com/. Writer/Media contact: Christy McCarter, mccarter@purdue.edu, @ChristyMcCarter Sources: Mung Chiang @PurduePresident; Mark Lundstrom, lundstro@purdue.edu Keith Cherkauer monitors an experiment utilizing groundwater for irrigational use at Purdues Agronomy Center for Research and Education. A professor in Purdues Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, Cherkauer is also director of the Indiana Water Resources Research Center. (Purdue Agricultural Communications photo/Tom Campbell) WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. Purdue Universitys Agricultural and Biological Engineering (ABE) undergraduate program is ranked No. 1 in its category in the 2024 U.S. News & World Report undergraduate program rankings, released Monday (Sept. 18). The ranking marks the 13th consecutive year the program has earned a spot in the top two. ABE has consistently achieved this ranking because the faculty and staff focus on making a global impact in key areas of research and preparing our students to take that impact to the next level, said Glenn W. Sample Dean of Agriculture Bernie Engel, who is also an ABE professor and former department head. I am grateful to ABEs department head, Nate Mosier, for his skilled leadership and to all the faculty and staff members for their commitment. Our students have numerous positive experiences during their time in ABE, from exceptional mentorship and research opportunities to multiple student organizations. Additional Information: Arvind Raman, the John A. Edwardson Dean of the College of Engineering, said, ABEs No. 1 ranking with one of the nations largest numbers of enrolled agricultural and biological engineering majors is emblematic of Purdues signature excellence at scale. I am grateful to the faculty and staff for their exceptional effort to deliver top-notch educational programs to students. Mosier, who as the Indiana Soybean Alliance Soybean Utilized Endowed Chair focuses his research on bioprocessing and the conversion of renewable resources to fuels, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, praises the departments research diversity. I believe our department earned this honor for many reasons, he said. But when I look at our distinguished team of faculty, staff and students and consider all the areas in which my colleagues excel, I take pride knowing that depth translates into preparing our students to make a major difference across industries. Its no surprise to me that our students become incredibly successful alumni. ABEs key areas of research align with the departments degree programs: agricultural systems management; biological and bioprocess engineering; data science and digital applications; environmental and natural resource engineering; and machine systems engineering. Last year the 32 members of ABEs faculty garnered 82 awards for research, totaling $15.4 million. ABEs 378 undergraduate students represent 64 counties in Indiana, 29 states and 11 countries. Over 95% of last years graduates either accepted a full-time position or are continuing their education after graduation. Writer and media contact: Maureen Manier, mmanier@purdue.edu Source: Nate Mosier, mosiern@purdue.edu Agricultural Communications: 765-494-8415; Maureen Manier, Department Head, mmanier@purdue.edu Agriculture News Page Purdue students from the first group of Lilly Scholars convene at a welcome event earlier this semester. (Photo provided by Lilly Scholars at Purdue program) Scholarships from the Purdue and Eli Lilly and Company collaboration provide tuition, internships and interaction with company leaders for dozens of undergraduates WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. Purdue Universitys Lilly Scholars are hitting the ground running in their training to become the next generation of pharmaceutical manufacturing talent. Thanks to a $42.5 million collaboration between Purdue and Eli Lilly and Company, students earned pharmaceutical manufacturing scholarships and unique learning opportunities with one of the worlds most innovative pharmaceutical companies. The dynamic new program, which was originally announced last October, annually offers 50-100 talented students full tuition with a guaranteed internship at Lilly and a promise of coordinated interaction with company leaders. Participating students will then be provided opportunities to compete for a role at the company following graduation. The incredibly innovative Lilly Scholars at Purdue program is one that will have a profound impact on the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry, said Kimberly Graham, Pharma co-op and Lilly Scholars program manager. The partnership between Purdue University and Eli Lilly and Company is one that prioritizes building a diverse pipeline of talent right here in Indiana, developing interest in pharmaceutical manufacturing, and inspiring academic and industry excellence. Additional Information Just two months into their college careers at Purdue, the inaugural Lilly Scholars are already engaging with industry professionals, developing friendships with colleagues, planning for their guaranteed internships at Lilly, and participating in exciting experiential learning opportunities that span both the curricular and social spaces. The Lilly Scholars program provides me with endless networking and professional development opportunities that I couldnt receive otherwise, said Maria Molina, a data science major. I was originally unsure of my college destination, but after being accepted, my college decision seemed like a no-brainer, and being a Lilly Scholar is the reason I became a Boilermaker. Pharmaceutical companies like Lilly have recognized the need for heavy investments in economical methods of manufacturing drugs, instead of just drug discovery, and leveraged the unique position of Purdue and the state of Indiana to strengthen pharmaceutical manufacturing in the Midwest. Over the last five years, Lilly has committed over $6 billion in pharmaceutical manufacturing globally. Purdue has strengthened its commitment to pharmaceutical manufacturing as well, launching the William D. and Sherry L. Young Advanced Manufacturing of Pharmaceuticals Institute last year, thanks to a generous donation from pharmaceutical and biotechnology pioneer William D. Young. The institute offers opportunities for workforce development, with the potential to train future Indiana workers in the basics of the pharmaceutical industry, and serves as a workforce training resource for Midwestern pharmaceutical companies. In fall 2023, the Young Institute in collaboration with Purdues Office of Professional Practice has launched a new undergraduate certificate in pharmaceutical manufacturing. The unique experiential learning certificate provides core curriculum for pharmaceutical careers and is open to students from various majors like the Lilly Scholars cohort. Professor Elizabeth Topp, director of the Young Institute, gave a kickoff lecture to the Lilly Scholars in one of their fall classes. It was great to meet such an engaged group of students, so keen to learn about the pharmaceutical industry, Topp said. Its exciting to imagine how theyll transform the industry in the years to come, following in the footsteps of amazing Purdue alumni like Bill Young. The Lilly Scholars program encourages applicants who are from under-resourced urban and rural populations, who have overcome socioeconomic or educational disadvantages, or who are among the first generation in their family to attend college, and applicants with a commitment to reducing barriers to education. Students applying to majors that relate to the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry can apply for these awards. Incoming Purdue undergraduates wishing to apply for the 2024 Lilly Scholars program will have to do so by Nov. 1. 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: Derek Schultz, dcschultz@purdue.edu Source: Kimberly Graham LUANDA, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese embassy hosted a reception in the Angolan capital of Luanda Tuesday to mark the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC), which falls on Oct. 1. The event saw the participation of about 600 attendees, including high-ranking Angolan government officials, foreign diplomats, and representatives of the Chinese community. Chen Feng, the charge d'affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Angola, highlighted that in the past 74 years, the Communist Party of China has led the Chinese people to achieve two remarkable accomplishments -- rapid economic development and long-term social stability, resulting in significant improvements in people's lives. She noted that this year marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Angola. The two countries have witnessed the deepening of political mutual trust and the strengthening of traditional friendship. Miguel Dialamicua, director of the Asia and Oceania Department of the Angolan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said in recent years, China has achieved remarkable successes in its economic and social development, and its development experience is a valuable reference for other countries. Dialamicua said Angola is willing to work with China to strengthen friendship ties and expand mutually beneficial cooperation for the benefit of both countries and their peoples. The guests at the reception also extended their wishes for China's National Day, praised China's development achievements, and recognized its significant role in maintaining world peace and stability, as well as promoting economic recovery. On Sept. 25, the Athens-Clarke County Board of Elections held a special called meeting to discuss final approval of changes to polling precincts and Election Day polling locations. These precinct and polling location changes will be effective by March 2024, ahead of the upcoming 2024 Presidential Preference Primary Election. Scenes from the UGA HEROs Greek Cookout Event held on the New Campus Lawn on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. The Greek Cookout Event brought together teams from across the pantheon of the University of Georgias Greek Life to grill food such as hotdogs and compete for the biggest turnout. (Photo/Felix Scheyer; @felixscheyer) Being transgender right now feels like being a canary in a coal mine. Ill die before I let anyone force me to be something Im not. My life is my own, and my body is my own. I have the right to live authentically and be happy. Im prepared to go down singing. If they silence me, who will take up my song? Will you? Ahead of the 2024 Republican presidential primaries in January, sentiments surrounding the candidates are continuing to shift and solidify among University of Georgia students. The Red & Black gathered Republican students thoughts on the partys current primary candidates, including who they plan on voting for, who they wish would drop out of the running and what policies are most important to them. People receive China-donated assistance in Nimroz province, Afghanistan, Sept. 27, 2023. Afghan authorities distributed China-donated assistance to 450 needy families in west Afghanistan's Nimroz province on Wednesday, provincial director for Natural Disaster Management Authority Mohammad Qasim Mohammad said Thursday. Each family received a bag of 50 kg of rice, the official said, adding that humanitarian aid would be distributed to more than 1,000 needy families in the coming days. (Photo by Mashal/Xinhua) ZARANJ, Afghanistan, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Afghan authorities distributed China-donated assistance to 450 needy families in west Afghanistan's Nimroz province on Wednesday, provincial director for Natural Disaster Management Authority Mohammad Qasim Mohammad said Thursday. Each family received a bag of 50 kg of rice, the official said, adding that humanitarian aid would be distributed to more than 1,000 needy families in the coming days. China has contributed humanitarian assistance including winter clothes, blankets, tents, anti-COVID-19 vaccines, and foodstuff to the war-ravaged country over the past two years. People receive China-donated assistance in Nimroz province, Afghanistan, Sept. 27, 2023. Afghan authorities distributed China-donated assistance to 450 needy families in west Afghanistan's Nimroz province on Wednesday, provincial director for Natural Disaster Management Authority Mohammad Qasim Mohammad said Thursday. Each family received a bag of 50 kg of rice, the official said, adding that humanitarian aid would be distributed to more than 1,000 needy families in the coming days. (Photo by Mashal/Xinhua) People receive China-donated assistance in Nimroz province, Afghanistan, Sept. 27, 2023. Afghan authorities distributed China-donated assistance to 450 needy families in west Afghanistan's Nimroz province on Wednesday, provincial director for Natural Disaster Management Authority Mohammad Qasim Mohammad said Thursday. Each family received a bag of 50 kg of rice, the official said, adding that humanitarian aid would be distributed to more than 1,000 needy families in the coming days. (Photo by Mashal/Xinhua) People receive China-donated assistance in Nimroz province, Afghanistan, Sept. 27, 2023. Afghan authorities distributed China-donated assistance to 450 needy families in west Afghanistan's Nimroz province on Wednesday, provincial director for Natural Disaster Management Authority Mohammad Qasim Mohammad said Thursday. Each family received a bag of 50 kg of rice, the official said, adding that humanitarian aid would be distributed to more than 1,000 needy families in the coming days. (Photo by Mashal/Xinhua) The first leg of Micron's semiconductor play in Sanand is crucial for the company to sprint towards India's goal of joining the chip race. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra D Modi with Sanjay Mehrotra, President-CEO, Micron Technology, centre, at the White House, June 22, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo It is easy to miss the freshly painted two-storey building with large glass windows in Sanand Industrial Estate, a smooth 45-minute drive from Ahmedabad, in Gujarat, hidden as it is behind tall neem and Ashok trees. A blue board says you are on the premises of Micron Technology. The United States-based memory chip company is the world's fifth-largest in semiconductors. A few months ago, it acquired 10 acres of land, building and factory from a troubled auto components maker here in Sanand. The facility is being converted into a pilot assembly, testing, marking and packaging (ATMP) plant. The ATMP plant is where wafers made from silicon are converted into memory chips. It always includes a 'cleanroom', which has near-zero dust and vibrations, and where wafers go through 30 to 40 processes, including etching. The completed chips are sent to a back-end assembly and test facility before they are packaged and sold. This existing factory, converted into a cleanroom, will roll out the first chip by a global behemoth in India some time between December this year and March next. In this phase, all processes will be done except testing, which needs a large facility and will be done abroad. This is the first leg of Micron's semiconductor play in Sanand and is crucial for the company to sprint towards India's goal of joining the chip race, seen by the government as critical to a future of technology-led growth. In the second leg, even the testing will be done here and only the wafer will be imported. This will be at the mega greenfield plant, starting December 2024. "The government expects the first made-in-India chip to roll out on December 24," Ashwini Vaishnaw, minister for railways, communications and electronics and information technology, told Business Standard. The second leg is just a kilometre away from the first. This is where Micron has acquired a substantial 93 acres from the government. It will have a greenfield ATMP plant that will take 18 months and cost $2 billion. The Gujarat government has given a 50 per cent subsidy on the land's price. Once ready, it will transform Sanand, the industrial belt synonymous with the automotive industry, into a high-tech semiconductor hub. It is the first mega project cleared under the central government's $10 billion incentive plan to woo global chip makers. Sahasra Electronics, with an outsourced semiconductor assembly and test facility in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, may become the first to roll out a chip, but Micron in Sanand claims many firsts. At the heart of Micron's twin facilities in Sanand will be the cleanroom, totalling 1 million square feet, among the largest for an ATMP plant in the world. It has to be free of dust, or the wafers will be rejected by the machines. The requirement is 1,000 small particles per square metre -- a 10th of the norm for an operation theatre. It will also be one of the most automated plants in the world for an ATMP facility, says Fremont-based Hem Takiar, corporate vice-president, packaging, development and engineering, with Micron. A 40-year veteran of the industry, Takiar says if the same plant was to be built 13 years ago, it would have required 20,000 to 30,000 technicians, making it unviable. Automation now makes it viable. Despite the automation, it will still generate substantial employment: 5,000 direct jobs and 15,000 to 20,000 indirect ones, comparable with a passenger car factory. The two-phase approach worked for Micron in Malaysia. It drastically reduces the time taken to roll out the first chips, which the government is keen to showcase to the world. If the project had only the greenfield mega plant, it could not have rolled out the first chips before December 2024. Some of the expensive machines will come from Micron's facility in Penang and be installed in the first leg. New machines for the mega plant, supplied by only a few global vendors, have a waiting period of more than nine months. Critics say the project is hyped, as Micron will be merely importing its wafers and doing low-value ATMP processing. However, Takiar says the value addition could range from 10 per cent to as high as 40 per cent, depending on the product. The India plant will make flip chips, which is the new technology requiring lithography machines, generally used in a fab plant, as well as the traditional wire-bonded chips. Experts say making these high-tech chips will infuse India with the expertise to make a fab plant. Videh Khare, a 2018-batch IAS officer and the mission director for the Gujarat Electronics Mission, says Micron will get 60 MVA of power, with enough redundancy to ensure uninterrupted supply. The ATMP plant will also require a lot of water, so the state government has assured the company of more than 20 million litres per day of high-quality potable water to process, clean and wash the wafers. This water will come from the Narmada canal and get processed by the state government. Khare says the water supply can be scaled up to 90 million litres a day, so there is no reason to worry as the Micron factory picks up pace. Micron plans to recycle 80 to 85 per cent of the water. This is possible because, unlike in the manufacture of wafers, there is limited use of chemicals in the ATMP, except some surfactants and silicon dust that can easily be separated. Khare says the company has a list of potential vendors that could set shop around the unit. The plan is to get in four or five of Micron's global vendors globally and some of the machine suppliers to set up service and maintenance facilities nearby. Talks are in the final stages with a global substrate maker, an existing supplier to Micron. The state government is also match-making Micron with automation firms, such as with a company in Gujarat that makes robotics for cutting rough diamonds and with those supplying robots to auto companies. The question remains where the memory chips from Sanand will be sold. Takiar says for the next two years they will be exported, but later be sold in India to global and Indian companies such as Apple Inc and other technology companies. But more work remains to be done. Micron needs a bonded warehouse in the factory premises for the expensive machines. The electronic mission is working with the communications and electronics and information technology ministry and has roped in the customs department to put in place a plan. Takiar says transportation of the machines from Ahmedabad airport to Sanand on specialised trucks requires a high-quality road with no bumps. Khare says there are many routes through which the machines can reach Sanand. That journey is bound to be slow. Micron, meanwhile, is sprinting. Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff.com Pratinav Anil is able to foresee some agency and assertion on the part of India's Muslims. His hope emanates from the citizenship rights movement of Muslims in 2019-2020, notes Mohammad Sajjad. Photograph: Anushree Fadnavis/Reuters Pratinav Anil's latest book, Another India: The Making of the World's Largest Muslim Minority, 1947-77, is an intensively well-researched, yet, a polemical and provocative book. On the Muslim question in the Indian Republic, Anil is harshly critical against Nehruvian policies and programmes. He characterises this era of Nehru-Congress hegemony as Islamophobic. One of the targets of his polemics is Mushirul Hasan's 1997 book, Legacy of a Divided Nation: India's Muslims since Independence, which, according to Anil, is 'an inventory of elite political maneuverings in which Muslims are little more than spectators'. He puts other scholars such as Rafiq Zakaria, Moin Shakir and Omar Khalidi, in almost the same league. In his own words, Anil's 'primary aim is to recover Muslim agency'. Admittedly, he is 'repurposing the minority question to reflect on the majoritarian character of Indian democracy'. Thus, the tallest of the Congress Muslims are subjects of Anil's bitterest ire. Maulana Azad, Zakir Husain, Rafi Kidwai, Humayun Kabir, Syed Mahmud, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmad, all are left un-spared. To this extent of 'Muslim agency', Gyan Prakash is more candid in his book, Emergency Chronicle. 'Minorities received equal rights in the Indian Constitution as a result of the nationalist struggle against the British, not due to a specific struggle for minority civil rights.' Though, Anil, deriving from Paul Brass and Theodore P Wright Jr, says, 'The quintessential dilemma of Muslim politics [is this]: 'communal' appeals asked for trouble whereas 'secular' mobilisation cut no ice.' Was it because of the politics of guilt and circumspection? Anil's answer seems to be in the affirmative. Anil has worked harder to dig out archives and find out expressions such as, Lord Wavell, the then viceroy of India, used the expression, 'cheap butter of insincere compliments' for Shafaat Ahmad Khan; Hasrat Mohani, in the Constituent Assembly Debates, dated January 4, 1949, calling the nationalist Muslims as 'slaves of the Congress'; Syed Mahmud, the Nehru's friend, was 'Just like a Dog' of Nehru; even a south Indian Muslim leader like Muhamamd Ismail (1896-1972) is described as 'a snake without fangs'.... As a student of Modern Indian history, I have always been intrigued about the roles of Maulana Azad in the politics of the Shariat Act, 1937 and his roles in the Constituent Assembly Debates (1946-1949). Anil delves into the latter question rather deeply, wherein Azad cuts a sorry figure in the tales of Anil. Rizwan Qaiser's 2011 book Resisting Colonialism & Communal Politics: Maulana Azad & the Making of the Indian Nation had demonstrated Azad's loneliness and helplessness within the Congress, notwithstanding the fact that he was the Congress president between 1940 and 1946. In conformity with the Cambridge School, Anil won't put even a share of blame of India's Partition on the British. He would say that the Partition 'plan was accepted across the board-reluctantly by Jinnah, nonchalantly by Gandhi, and with both hands by Nehru'. He thus ends up appreciating communal separatism: 'The League aspired to economic and political [empowerment of the Muslims], nationalist Muslims to cultural and legal, sovereignty'. This, I think is strange, for, the Shariat Act 1937 was the handiwork of Jinnah. Nonetheless, Anil does admit, at least this much, that, 'at least in the realm of discourse and high politics, the Congress represented some kind of secular ideal'. IMAGE: From left to right, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, then president of the Indian National Congress; Asaf Ali, then member of the Congress working committee, and Jawaharlal Nehru. Photograph: Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty Images from the Rediff Archives Tirade against Maulana Azad Anil's tirade against Azad is worth noting, culled by him from across the primary and secondary sources: Throughout the 1950s, 'the maulana seldom participated in debates in Parliament'. His lawmaking colleagues accused him of prolonged truancy. Whenever his presence was needed, Azad would send in a stand-in. In 1955, the Times reported that he had absented himself from Parliament for a year now. He never answered questions, more because of his dipsomania and less because of his arrogance. Azad's counsel to his Qaum to 'live as loyal citizens', attracts this comment from Anil: 'Loyalty, of course, is not a sign of agency, nor so much a programme, but a demonstration of submission'. Similarly, in the wake of the 'police action' in Hyderabad [September 1948], Azad tried to explain away the killing of 40,000 Muslims on Delhi's watch before a Muslim audience: it 'was an inevitable consequence of the minority community's misdeeds and excesses. The laws of nature were immutable and every action had its reaction'. Better than 'crying over spilt milk', he recommended Muslims to steer clear of government and work towards the 'rehabilitation and uplift of their fallen brothers and sisters' themselves. For 'in a large measure' this burden 'rested with the community' itself, not with the state (Times of India, September 30, 1952). The choice of words, it hardly needs telling, hinted at reduced agency, says Anil. 'To Azad, then, there existed a neat separation between the political and cultural. The former needed to be relinquished, the latter defended. 'For nation-building depended on unity, and while there could be unity in cultural diversity, political differences could be fatally divisive. This was the lesson of Partition. 'Better then to take up the cudgels for the Congress, circumscribe demands, and concentrate energies on cultural concerns -- as we have seen, the holy trinity of nationalist Muslim thinking. 'Early postcolonial Muslim politics was immeasurably shaped by this worldview... its upshots were most forcefully felt in the Constituent Assembly [Debates], where nationalist Muslims exchanged political for cultural safeguards.' IMAGE: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, third from left, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, second from left, and other dignitaries pay tribute to Maulana Abul Kalam Azad on his birth anniversary at the Central Hall of Parliament, New Delhi, November 11, 2022. Photograph: ANI Photo 'The goodwill earned by the nationalist Muslims in the summer of 1947 by consenting to the scrapping of separate electorates, then, had by early 1949 become a wasting asset...,' Anil adds. Four months later, on May 11, 1949, Patel's supporters mounted an attack on the qaum's sole remaining safeguard: Reservations. Azad had defended parliamentary quotas in July 1947. Now, in the Constitutional endgame, the maulana made a stunning volte face. Whether this was elicited under duress we will never know. But what we do know from the [K M] Munshi Papers is that when the question cropped up in the committee, 'the representatives of the nationalist Muslims sat silent' 'Azad, apparently, 'had instructed them not to press for reservation'. 'Here, again, silence was submission by proxy.... At first blush, Azad's silence is surprising in view of his position in four of the eight major assembly committees, not to mention his distinction as the party's longest-serving president. 'All the same, figures like the maulana may have been important men, but they also tended to be self-effacing, and, appropriately enough, they were often effaced. 'Therein lies the rub for the historian: To write about the nationalist Muslim is to be repeatedly confronted with the silence of one's subject, the uncovering of their agency a journey through so many cul-de-sacs'. Even while debating due process of law on preventive detention, Azad is said to have remained silent. It was Sadullah who argued that this was invoked mostly against Muslims. According to Anil, his silence was to please Nehru and Patel. Though, B N Rau was of the opinion that it was undemocratic. Anil also reveals that the Congress used ex-Leaguers Begum Qudsia Aizaz Rasul (1909-2001), 'the poster-girl of secular Muslims', and Tajammul Husain (Shia landlord from Bihar) to silence the likes of Azad on the issue of political safeguards. Humaira Chowdhury's essay (2021) reveals even more on that. 'Her [Aizaz Rasul's] vehement opposition to separate electorates and reservations for Muslims and women speaks of an ambivalence regarding what it meant to be a religious minority in the post-colonial context, which in turn mirrored the ambiguities surrounding the meaning of secularism in independent India'. On the language question too, 'Azad resigned from the language committee over the impasse. 'I would like to tell you that by accommodating Urdu the heavens will not come down', he tearfully lamented in the assembly.' IMAGE: Mahatma Gandhi leaves Muhammad Ali Jinnah's home, en route to the viceregal lodge in Delhi, November 24, 1939. Photograph: Topical Press Agency/Getty Images from the Rediff Archives Anil explains to us why and how did the Muslim politicians of all hues kept the Shariat politics ('juridical ghetto') at the centre of priority and a resultant depoliticisation of the power-obsessed Qaum. In this regard, Anil is particularly critical of the UP Muslim elites not only in late-colonial era but also in the post-Independence era. 'Indeed, what they achieved through their spirited defence of the Sharia was unique in world-historical perspective. 'At a time when Islamic laws were being torn up, or radically rewritten at the very least, across the Muslim world-Pakistan, Morocco, Libya, Lebanon, Tunisia, United Arab-in India, Muslim Personal law remained untouched'. Anil's diagnosis about the competitive communalisation of India's socio-political landscape in the 1980s is persuasive. 'If the Hindu leadership disregarded the material interests of Muslims, so, too, did the community's ashraf leadership. 'After Ayodhya, more bile was directed at the Ahl-i-Hadith ulama, whose 1993 fatwa declared triple talaq un-Islamic, than at Hindu nationalists. 'To the delight of the JUH and AIMPLB, the schism was short-lived. Orthodoxy prevailed. Taqlid trumped ijtihad -- purblind conformity trumped creative interpretation'. This, Anil says, went on to 'furnishing Muslim men with a private fiefdom to do as they pleased was poor recompense for their despondent public existence in an Islamophobic society'. In this vein, it is unsurprising and quite predictable about Anil's take on Syed Shahabuddin (1935-2017), the diplomat turned politician, who, along with the Muslim Personal Law Board, was one of the main actors to have nationalised the hitherto localised issue of Ayodhya. Does Anil prescribe against the politics of victimhood when he talks of recovering Muslim agency? Did the prescriptions of Muslim modernisers such as M C Chagla and Hamid Dalwai help? What about the India's Islamists and clerics, against whom K M Ashraf (1903-1962) and Mushirul Haq (1933-1990), besides M Shafi Agwani (1928-2018), have written rather more frankly? Anil's comprehensive and penetrative take on capitulations and strategic transformations of the Jamaat-e-Islami-e Hind is interesting. As it is throughout the book, he 'blames' the Nehruvian phenomenon, for having tamed the JIH to become 'Almost Liberals', who 'remained firmly grounded in anti-political thinking', in pursuit of 'theodemocracy'. For other brands of post-independence Muslim politics too, Anil 'points to a peculiarity of the Muslim political classes. They have always excelled at counting heads and securing sinecures. Equally, they have always failed at directing policy. Spectacularly so'; and, that their 'style of politics' was 'premised on pledges and charters, rather than parties and cadres'. Yet, Anil ends the book on an optimist note. He is able to foresee some agency and assertion on the part of India's Muslims. His hope emanates from the citizenship rights movement of Muslims in 2019-2020. Notwithstanding some limitations, Anil's book is an important intervention; too many of French language expressions and use of uncommon, at times inapt, English vocabularies make the read little cumbersome. Being provocative and polemical it will attract a wide cross section of readership. Mohammad Sajjad teaches Modern and Contemporary History at Aligarh Muslim University and is the author of Muslim Politics in Bihar: Changing Contours (Routledge 2014/2018 reprint). Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com The migration of domestically developed intellectual property to foreign corporations within India reflects an anomaly in the demand pattern of the country's job market, points out Kanika Datta. Arvind Krishna, chairman and CEO of IBM, recently said he was bullish about the innovations coming out of the conglomerate's India R&D centre. This is the point at which we pat ourselves on the back for our indigenous tech prowess. Indeed, the staggering range and quality of artificial intelligence and semiconductor research being done in India by multinationals is a largely unacknowledged aspect of the global high-tech boom. This is one element of the new brain drain. Unlike the earlier version, which saw qualified engineers and management students, many educated at government cost at top-notch institutions, head out to the West for job opportunities that would absorb their skills and offer dynamic career advancement, Brain Drain 2.0 is taking place right here in India. A blue-blooded US company such as IBM is, in effect, extracting value from India's intellectual capabilities in India. But the commercial applications accruing from those innovations will benefit the bottom-line of a company headquartered and listed in New York. The migration of domestically developed intellectual property to foreign corporations within India reflects a standard anomaly in the demand pattern of the country's executive job market. In order of preference, foreign companies, preferably in tech, engineering or consumer goods, top the totem pole. The Indian private sector follows, but the universe of aspiration is extremely narrow to maybe the Tata group, Reliance, Bajaj, Mahindra and the homegrown tech giants such as Infosys, HCL and so on. Government jobs tend to figure low on the scale if you are ambitious. Earlier, the public sector was considered a safe harbour for those interested in cruising through their careers; now, the increasing contractualisation of even executive level jobs in the public sector is changing that. The preference for employment in a Western/multinational company is understandable since such corporations offer higher salaries, the prospect of travelling (and maybe emigrating) to some First World haven and prospects for meaningful professional advancement. India Inc has an inherent disadvantage in this competition for talent because of its innate domestic focus and family-controlled culture. That is a result of the long years of autarkic economic policy and the easy advantages that companies with lobbying power derived in staving off global competition. But the striking fact is that even three decades after liberalisation India Inc retains the lightest of global footprints. Defenders might argue that this is principally because the Indian corporate sector is relatively youthful compared with the age and experience of the US giants. This argument may hold for 112-year-old Big Blue or 131-year-old GE. But consider the FAANGs, whose institutions dominate India like colossi. All but one of them have entered middle age. That's Apple at 47 years, positively elderly compared with Amazon, 29, Netflix, 26, Google (on which I am checking this information), 25, and Facebook at just 19. Compared with this the biggies in terms of Indian stock market capitalisation are aged. Reliance, at 50 years, stolidly remains a powerful domestic giant. TCS and Infosys, which have extensive global operations by virtue of their business model, are 55 and 42 years old, respectively. Bharti Airtel will qualify as an international giant by virtue of its African operations but the continent is not yet an aspirational destination for outward-oriented executives. Sixty-eight-year-old State-owned State Bank of India has overseas branches but it cannot be considered a major player in international finance or a go-to bank for finance professionals. If India's best and brightest still prefer employment with foreign corporations, whether in India or abroad, to maximise their highly prized skills honed in the very best of Indian institutions, India's wealthiest are also increasingly cashing in their chips. In June this year, the Henley Private Wealth Migration report predicted that 6,500 Indian millionaires are expected to leave the country in 2023. This is slightly lower than the 7,500 who left last year. Why are they leaving? A senior Henley partner elliptically put it down to "recent and persistent turmoil". Significantly, he added, more investors are considering relocating their families for safety and security, education and healthcare and climate change resilience. In other words, not only are rich Indians uneasy about India and exiting with their resources, the country's future talent -- their children -- are leaving too, and are unlikely to return with the fruits of their foreign education. Henley seems unworried by this trend, suggesting that India was producing plenty of millionaires every year. But given the accelerating rate at which Indians are giving up their citizenship over the past decade, the double brain drain could seriously impair India's human capital at a time when public investment in education is sub-par. That's a reality that surely must be addressed with as much intensity as India's status as a world power. Feature Presentation: Rajesh Alva/Rediff.com India is increasingly a willing participant in the evolving US' Indo-Pacific strategy. While these developments are related to the perception of a growing Chinese security challenge, their implications for India's much-vaunted strategic autonomy should be a matter of deeper and closer reflection, asserts former foreign secretary Shyam Saran. IMAGE: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh along with Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, right, and Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande, left, at the Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs Conference, co-hosted by the Indian Army in collaboration with the US Army, in New Delhi, September 26, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo On the concluding day of the New Delhi G20 summit on September 10, US President Joe Biden headed to Hanoi for a State visit. The United States and Vietnam upgraded their Comprehensive Partnership, concluded in 2013, to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. From the press briefings during and after the visit, it was clear that the US is willing to provide military hardware, justifying it in terms of helping Vietnam diversify away from its current reliance on Russian supplies. Vietnam, like India, shares a vulnerable land border with China and contests Chinese maritime claims in the South China Sea. This latest development is part of a determined effort by the US to shore up its alliances and partnerships in the Indo-Pacific to confront China's assertive and often aggressive behaviour. However, in the joint statement, Vietnam has been careful not to include language that may be provocative to China. There is, for example, no reference to Taiwan, nor to the 2016 UN arbitral award in favour of the Philippines, rejecting Chinese claims in the South China Sea. This may be contrasted with a recent change in India's position on the award, from merely 'noting'it earlier to explicitly endorsing it in the India-Philippines joint statement of June this year. The relevant para reads, 'They (the ministers) underlined the need for a peaceful settlement of disputes and for adherence to international law, especially to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 2016 arbitral award on the South China Sea in this regard.' Vietnam remains cautious, but the upgrading of relations with the US is clearly directed against China and will be perceived as such. Under the new administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr of the Philippines, there has been a significant upgrade in the country's military alliance with the US, which dates back to 1951. Not only has the US regained access to its key bases in the Philippines after a hiatus of several years, but has recently also been given access to four additional bases in the country. In May 2023, new guidelines were issued for the 1951 treaty, containing more specific US commitments to deal with security threats to Philippines' security, including its exclusive economic zones (EEZ). There is now a provision for joint US-Philippines patrols in the EEZ. This may lead to direct confrontation between US and Chinese military and coast guard vessels. IMAGE: Rajnath Singh addresses the Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs Conference. Photograph: ANI Photo The most important development in terms of American Indo-Pacific strategy is the successful forging of a trilateral security framework among the US and its two key military allies, Japan and South Korea. There has been a long-standing American effort to bring its two allies together in a truly trilateral and coordinated alliance, but this always ran up against the deep-rooted hostility between the two countries spawned by a bitter history of Japanese colonial rule over Korea from 1910 to 1945. These negative sentiments will linger on, but the growing security threat from China and now from a nuclear-armed North Korea, have muted their mutual antagonism. The just concluded visit of the North Korean leader, Kim Jong Un, to Russia and the prospect of a deepening military alliance between the two countries, will only exacerbate fears in Seoul and Tokyo. Under US sponsorship, the leaders of the US, Japan and South Korea, met at Camp David in the US in June and adopted the Camp David Principles, which provide for annual trilateral summits, a hotline among leaders, intelligence sharing, and annual military exercises. It is worth noting that all three countries consider the situation in the Taiwan Strait as impacting regional peace and security. President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea has described the Taiwan issue as a 'global issue' just as the North Korean issue is. This is an important shift in South Korea's hitherto more cautious position on Taiwan. The US is building a multi-tiered security architecture in the Indo-Pacific. At the lowest level are partnerships such as with Vietnam and some Asean countries like Singapore and Thailand. At the next level is the Quad, which groups together India, the US, Japan, and Australia. India has a unique position in the Quad as it is not an ally but has strategic partnerships with each of the other members. These have not yet been fully multi-lateralised, except in the ongoing annual Malabar naval exercises. At the next level, one may cite the now trilateral US, Japan, South Korea military alliance. And at the apex, one may put AUKUS, which is an upgraded military alliance among the US, UK, and Australia, whose distinguishing feature is the commitment to enable Australia to emerge as a nuclear submarine power, working in tandem with the US and UK's naval power in the Indo-Pacific. IMAGE: Rajnath Singh, General Anil Chauhan, General Manoj Pande and army chiefs and delegates from 35 countries during the Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs Conference. Photograph: ANI Photo The ASEAN countries may be seen as a weak link in this emerging US-led security architecture in the region. There are individual countries like Laos and Cambodia that are fully aligned with China. The others are wary of provoking China, which is the most important economic partner for them. However, there are some straws in the wind. The ASEAN countries are holding their first-ever naval exercises this month off the Natuna islands, which falls within Indonesia's EEZ but is overlapped by China's infamous nine-dash line that covers the whole of the South China Sea. Perhaps this is the first sign of a push-back by ASEAN against China's exaggerated territorial claims in the region. India is increasingly a willing participant in the evolving US Indo-Pacific strategy. It has already concluded the three foundational agreements that provide a high degree of inter-operability between the armed forces of the two countries. There are now two master ship repair agreements, one between the US navy and the Larsen and Toubro shipyard at Kattupalli near Chennai, and a more recent one concluded with the Mazagaon Docks in August. American naval vessels have already been docking in these ports for repair and refitment. It would be comparatively easy to extend these facilities to the other Quad members. While these developments are related to the perception of a growing Chinese security challenge, their implications for India's much-vaunted strategic autonomy should be a matter of deeper and closer reflection. The prospect of another Trump presidency may throw every current assumption into a vortex of uncertainty. Has that possibility been factored into our security calculus? Shyam Saran is a former foreign secretary and an honorary fellow at the Centre for Policy Research Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Suvendu Adhikari and Congress leader Kaustav Bagchi on Wednesday participated in a protest rally of aspiring candidates for school jobs in West Bengal, triggering accusations from the ruling Trinamool Congress of a 'covert alliance' among the Communist Party of India-Marxist, the Congress, and the saffron camp in the state. IMAGE: West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari with Group D eligible job candidates take part in a rally on marking of their 400 days of sit-in demonstration to protest against recruitment scam, in Kolkata on Wednesday. Photograph: ANI Photo The demonstration was held by the protesting school job aspirants at Camac Street in South Kolkata, where TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee's office is located. "The school job aspirants, who are suffering due to the corruption of the TMC government, have organised a protest rally and have invited me to participate in it as the leader of the opposition in the assembly. What is the harm if Kaustav Bagchi also joins the protest?" Adhikari told reporters. He also said that anyone who wants to fight against TMC's 'misrule and corruption' is welcome to join such a demonstration. Regarding his participation in the programme, Bagchi said, "He has no problem taking part in any rally or programme against the corrupt TMC. I have no qualms in walking with Suvendu Adhikari against the TMC government." Along with posters against the TMC, placards of the INDIA alliance were also seen at the rally. "We have kept the placards of INDIA alliance as we want the members of INDIA opposition alliance to know about the corruption happening in Bengal," a protester said. The TMC, the Congress and the CPI-M are part of the INDIA alliance to fight against the BJP at the national level. Reacting to the development, TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh said BJP and Congress leaders' jointly participating in a rally only reflects the tacit understanding among them. "If Suvendu Adhikari and Kaustav Bagchi participate in a rally together, it will not yield any result. Both are losers as politicians in Bengal. But it is for the Congress to answer whether they support the BJP in Bengal or not," he said. State Congress president Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury declined to attach much importance and said, "Kaustav Bagchi must have gone there in personal capacity and not as Congress leader." "The TMC doesn't need to lecture us on how to fight the BJP. But fighting against the saffron camp doesn't mean that we will turn a blind eye to the corruption of the TMC in Bengal," he said. Senior TMC leader and former state education minister Partha Chatterjee, who was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for alleged involvement in the school jobs scam in July last year, is in CBI custody in the same case. M S Swaminathan, renowned agricultural scientist and a lifelong crusader against hunger who bet on sustainable farming passed away in Chennai on Thursday. He was 98 and is survived by three daughters including Dr Soumya Swaminathan, the former chief scientist of the World Health Organisation. Madhura Swaminathan and Nitya Rao are his other two daughters and his wife Mina Swaminathan predeceased him. Soumya Swaminathan told reporters here that her father had always been keen on helping women farmers and he was instrumental in establishing women farmers producers organisation. A staunch advocate of food and nutrition security, it was his path-breaking work that warded off famine during the 1960s. A Padma Vibushan awardee, he is also the recipient of the first World Food Prize for his leadership in India's green revolution and numerous other national and international awards including the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay award. The celebrated agriculture icon passed away today at his residence here. His cremation will take place here on September 30 amid honours by the Tamil Nadu police. Condolences poured in with President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailing Swaminathan's yeoman service to the nation. Murmu said Swaminathan left behind a rich legacy which would serve as a "guiding light to steer the world towards a safer and hunger-free future for humanity. Modi said his groundbreaking work transformed the lives of millions, ensured India's food security. Indian Agricultural Research Institute director AK Singh said an era of agricultural research, education and extension marked by disruptive innovations has come to an end with the death of Swaminathan. Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, Chief Minister M K Stalin, leaders of farmers' bodies including P R Pandian condoled Swaminathan's death. The Congress party described him as the key scientific architect of the Green Revolution and hailed his contribution to the agriculture sector. Modi said on X: "Deeply saddened by the demise of Dr MS Swaminathan Ji. At a very critical period in our nation's history, his groundbreaking work in agriculture transformed the lives of millions and ensured food security for our nation." Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi said Swaminathan's steadfast commitment to revolutionising India's agriculture turned it into a food surplus country. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and farmer leader Rakesh Tikait were among a host of leaders who condoled Swaminathan's death. Swaminathan was a part of every key initiative connected to food security and agriculture and his stellar contributions are pioneering including the focus on millets for nutrition security as well. Fondly addressed as MS by his friends and colleagues, Monkombu Sambasivan Swaminathan, in his long career demonstrated what he advocated-- developing new varieties for food security-- and ensured bumper crops by working side by side with farmers. Born in Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu on August 7, 1925 to Dr M K Sambasivan and Parvati Thangammai, Swaminathan played a significant role in changing the trajectory of the agriculture sector when farmers were dependent on archaic farming techniques. He began his research career with cytogenetic studies in potato in 1949 at the Agricultural University, Wageningen, the Netherlands, and later at Cambridge University, where he obtained his Ph D in Genetics in 1952, according to an article in Current Science (Living legends in Indian science). "Impressed with his brilliance and highly noteworthy contributions to the cytogenetics and breeding of potato, MS was appointed in the Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI-Cuttack) and assigned to work in the indicajaponica rice hybridisation programme. The idea was to develop fertilizer-responsive varieties of rice suitable for the rice growing tracts in India. In later years, he would reminisce that the indica-japonica hybridisation programme at CRRI was indeed the early harbinger of the Green Revolution movement in India. The work resulted in varieties like ADT27, RASI, cultivated in Tamil Nadu." Further, the article said: "The question was how to increase agricultural productivity and production especially of our staple foodgrains (wheat and rice)." MS had written that the seeds of green revolution were first sown in the fields of CRRI through the indicajaponica rice crosses, and decided that the plant type should be tailored to be functionally responsive to external application of fertilizers. The height of plants should be reduced without reducing the length of grain-bearing panicles. "This is what he strived to achieve by pursuing interspecific hybridization, induced radiation and chemical mutagenesis and use of plant growth regulators." A genius, he is undoubtedly among the most influential scientists of the 20th century. Swaminathan's research that began as a plant geneticist addressed the issue of food insecurity, helped small farmers increase their income by enhancing productivity Eventually, a nation that once depended on American wheat to feed its people in the 1960s was transformed into a foodgrain surplus nation. In 1988, he founded the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) a not-for-profit trust with proceeds from the first World Food Prize he received in 1987. It is dedicated to "accelerate use of modern science for sustainable agricultural and rural development." He handled many official roles including that of the chairman of the National Commission on Farmers, and President of the Pugwash Conferences on Science and World Affairs. He had held a string of positions including that of Director of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (1961-72) and Director General of Indian Council of Agricultural Research and Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Agricultural Research and Education (1972-79). He was awarded the World Food Prize for developing and spearheading the introduction of high-yielding wheat and rice varieties in India during the 1960s when that country faced the prospect of widespread famine. According to the World Food Prize Foundation, wheat production doubled in just a few years, making the country self-sufficient and saving millions from extreme food deprivation. He has received 84 honorary doctorate degrees from universities around the world. He is a Fellow of many of the leading scientific academies including the Royal Society of London and the U S National Academy of Sciences. He was a former Rajya Sabha member (2007-13). After completing a double bachelors, masters, and Ph.D in Cytogenetics, he spent two decades in research and administrative positions at agriculture institutes. Read Dr M S Swaminathan's interviews to Rediff.com over the years: 'We are in an economic crisis' Interview/Dr M S Swaminathan 'What we need is Evergreen Revolution' 'Mangroves reduce tidal waves' The Money Interview / Dr M S Swaminathan The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday summoned senior Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee again on October 3 for questioning in connection with the school jobs scam in Kolkata, which the party described as an attempt by the Bharatiya Janata Party to disrupt its planned rally in New Delhi on the same day. IMAGE: TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee at the Parliament during the special session, in New Delhi, September 20, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo It also exposed the fear in the saffron camp, claimed Banerjee who is set to lead the protest rally in the national capital against the Centre's decision to withhold the state's dues under MGNREGA. The TMC general secretary, considered number two in the party, shared the letter sent to him by the central agency on X, formerly Twitter. "Earlier this month, the ED summoned me on a day coinciding with an important coordinating meeting of #INDIA in Delhi. I dutifully appeared and complied with the served summons," he said. "Now, today yet again, they have served me another summons to appear before them on a day when the protest agitation for West Bengal's rightful dues is scheduled in Delhi on 3rd Oct. This stark revelation unequivocally exposes those who are truly perturbED, rattlED and scarED!" he posted on the micro-blogging site. Reacting to the allegations, the BJP said the central agencies do not need to consult the TMC before summoning anyone. Banerjee, along with other party MPs, MLAs and leaders will pay their respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat in the national capital on October 2 on his birth anniversary. A TMC delegation will meet Union Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Giriraj Singh on October 3 and place before him the issue of "non-release of dues" under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act. The ruling party of West Bengal claimed that the BJP is afraid of the TMC's programme in New Delhi and is trying to scuttle the people's voice. "@BJP4India , how low will you stoop? First, you withhold the rightful dues of Bengal's people and let them suffer. And now, you're trying to silence the voice of our people by summoning National GS Shri @abhishekaitc through your caged parrot @dir_ed on October 3rd, the day when a protest agitation is to take place in Delhi," the TMC posted on X. The Supreme Court in 2013 had described the Central Bureau of Investigation, another central probe agency, as a 'caged parrot' while citing evidence of interference in its investigation into the alleged irregularities in the allocation of coalfield licences. At that time, the Congress-led UPA was in power at the Centre. The TMC post said, "There's nothing more shameful than witnessing how one of the largest democracies in the world has been reduced to ashes in PM @narendramodi's regime. But like always, we will fight back!" The BJP rejected the allegations of the TMC. "If Abhishek Banerjee and the TMC are not afraid of anyone, why are they apprehensive of appearing before the ED? The central agency is right in asking Abhishek Banerjee to appear before it," senior BJP leader Rahul Sinha said. Banerjee, who was questioned by ED for nearly nine hours in the teacher recruitment scam earlier on September 13, had then claimed that the interrogation was an effort to prevent him from participating in the coordination committee meeting of opposition bloc INDIA. Earlier, the two-time TMC MP from Diamond Harbour was questioned by the ED twice in the coal pilferage case in the agency's office in Delhi in 2021 and in Kolkata in 2022. In May this year, he was questioned by the CBI for nine hours in the school jobs scam. The Delhi high court has granted parole to a foreign national for three weeks to enable him to appeal in the Supreme Court, observing every individual has the right to effectively pursue legal recourse in the country's ultimate court of justice which is their "final glimmer of hope". Photograph: / Rediff.com IMAGE: The Supreme Court of India. Justice Rajnish Bhatnagar said this "invaluable entitlement" cannot be denied on grounds of severity of the offence or availability of free legal assistance even if a special leave petition can be filed before the top court from jail itself. In his petition, the convict, who was awarded life sentence, sought parole for eight weeks on the ground that he wanted to appeal before the Supreme Court and that he was suffering from certain medical issues. "This court is of the opinion that every individual possesses the right to effectively pursue their legal recourse in the ultimate court of justice within the nation, accomplished by submitting a special leave petition through a chosen legal representative," said the court in a recent order. "This is an invaluable entitlement that should not be denied solely based on the severity of the offense or the availability of free legal assistance, even if the SLP can be filed from jail itself....The entitlement of an individual to access a lawful solution in the ultimate court of the country, often seen as a final glimmer of hope, cannot be refused for such reasons," it observed. The court noted that the petitioner has remained in jail continuously for over 12 years and ordered his release on parole for a period of three weeks subject to a personal bond of Rs 25,000 with one surety of the like amount. The State opposed the petition and said being a foreign national, the petitioner may abscond if released. His request for parole was earlier declined in view of the gravity of offence, it said. Justice Bhatnagar said the act of utilising the legal recourse available in the highest court of the land is a privilege bestowed upon the petitioner, and the court has no intention of revoking that right. The court directed the petitioner to not leave Delhi without requisite permission, deposit his passport, and provide his mobile phone number to the jail superintendent and the SHO concerned. It also directed the man to mark his presence before the SHO every third day. "The petitioner shall furnish a copy of the SLP filed in the Supreme Court to the Superintendent Jail at the time of surrendering. A copy of the SLP shall also be placed on record before this court before surrendering," the court ordered. "The petitioner shall positively surrender before the concerned Jail Superintendent on the expiry of the period of 03 (three) weeks from the date of his release," it said. Roscosmos Cosmonauts Sergey Prokopyev and Dmitry Petelin and NASA Astronaut Frank Rubio -- crew members on the International Space Station -- landed in a Soyuz MS-23 space capsule in a remote area near Zhezkazgan, Kazakhstan, September 27, 2023. IMAGE: Sergey Prokopyev rests in a chair after landing. Photograph: NASA/Bill Ingalls/Handout/Reuters IMAGE: Specialists render assistance while standing next to the Soyuz MS-23 space capsule. Photograph: Roscosmos/Ivan Timoshenko/Handout/Reuters IMAGE: Specialists help the International Space Station crew members. Photograph: Roscosmos/Ivan Timoshenko/Handout/Reuters IMAGE: Specialists carry an ISS crew member from the Soyuz MS-23 space capsule. Photograph: Roscosmos/Ivan Timoshenko/Handout/Reuters IMAGE: Frank Rubio and Dmitry Petelin are seen inside the capsule. Photograph: NASA/Bill Ingalls/Handout/Reuters IMAGE: Petelin is pulled out of the capsule. Photograph: Roscosmos/Handout/Reuters IMAGE: Petelin is carried out by specialists. Photograph: NASA/Bill Ingalls/Handout/Reuters IMAGE: The team of specialists at the site before the Soyuz MS-23 space capsule landed on earth. Photograph: NASA/Bill Ingalls/Handout/Reuters IMAGE: The Soyuz MS-23 space capsule descends from the skies. Photograph: NASA/Bill Ingalls/Handout/Reuters IMAGE: The Soyuz MS-23 space capsule lands. Photograph: Roscosmos/Ivan Timoshenko/Handout/Reuters IMAGE: The specialists approach the Soyuz MS-23 space capsule. Photograph: Roscosmos/Ivan Timoshenko/Handout/Reuters IMAGE: Sergey Prokopyev, Dmitry Petelin and Frank Rubio rest in chairs after their long voyage home. Photograph: NASA/Bill Ingalls/Handout/Reuters Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff.com Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff.com Some constituents of the alliance have raised concern that the panels, particularly the 14-member coordination committee, are at risk of becoming ineffective, as their decisions have so far not been acted upon. IMAGE: 63 Opposition leaders from 28 different parties pose for a group photograph during INDIA's third meeting in Mumbai, September 1, 2023. Photograph: @kharge/X The Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc, comprising 26 Opposition parties, could soon review the many panels it had announced nearly a month ago. Some constituents of the alliance have raised concern that these panels, particularly the 14-member coordination committee that serves as the top decision-making body, are at risk of becoming ineffective, as their decisions have so far not been acted upon. They have called for a new modus vivendi or arrangement to address this issue. A senior leader from the INDIA bloc told Business Standard that it had become "increasingly clear that decisions were unlikely to be made or honoured, unless top leaders of respective parties were present." According to sources, a leader of a Kashmir-based party questioned the relevance of attending the committee meetings when decisions could be vetoed by leaders who were absent from the forum. The INDIA bloc had announced the formation of the coordination committee along with other panels, which include those responsible for media, social media, and research, during its meeting in Mumbai on September 1. The coordination committee convened its first meeting on September 13. So far, the committee has made two decisions, neither of which has been implemented. First, it agreed to organise a public meeting of INDIA leaders in Bhopal, the capital of election-bound Madhya Pradesh, in early October. However, Kamal Nath, the Congress's chief ministerial candidate in the state, opposed the idea. He argued that the timing was politically and logistically inconvenient, as it would divert attention from the anti-incumbency against Shivraj Singh Chouhan and would require significant resources from the already stretched Congress party. Second, the committee proposed making the demand for a caste census one of its main electoral issues. This proposal, however, was not supported by the All India Trinamool Congress led by Mamata Banerjee. During its meeting on September 13, the coordination committee also endorsed the decision of INDIA's media committee to boycott 14 television news anchors. This decision also lacked unanimous support. Not only Janata Dal-United leader Nitish Kumar, but also certain members of the Congress were not in agreement. Trinamool General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee could not attend due to a summons from the Enforcement Directorate while the Communist Party of India-Marxist has yet to nominate its representative. On September 25, during a public meeting of the Indian National Lok Dal in Haryana, JD-U's K C Tyagi remarked that 'Big tasks could not be accomplished with a small heart' and emphasised the need for unity to defeat the BJP. TMC's Rajya Sabha MP Derek O'Brien also highlighted the need to set aside egos. There is growing dissatisfaction among the INDIA bloc constituents towards the Congress, which they allege is using the various INDIA committees as a platform to promote its second-rung leaders, thereby sidelining equally or more experienced leaders from other parties. Suggestions have been made to organise mass outreach programmes to revitalise the alliance, including public meetings in cities such as Patna, Nagpur, Chennai, Guwahati, and Delhi. BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The false narratives of Western media about the Chinese economy are defamation -- "the weapon of choice to avoid competition," French essayist and entrepreneur Laurent Michelon told Xinhua in a recent interview. There are two contradictory narratives about the Chinese economy in Western media reports, the first of which is "collapse," Michelon said, adding that with each failure of a Chinese company, the Western media seize the opportunity to "announce the collapse of the industry in question, or even the collapse of the entire country's economy." Despite the rather favorable economic data published by China or the IMF, the Western media "still try to portray China as a place where doing business is no longer profitable and as an economy in the process of collapsing," Michelon said. The other narrative is the "China threat," he said. "The official narrative, emanating from Washington for several years, which must be echoed by all Western media, is that China poses an existential threat, a systemic rival to the West." There is a logical contradiction between the two narratives, Michelon pointed out. "If China is collapsing, how can it pose an existential threat to the West?" Moreover, when the media are left with no choice but to report positive information about China, "they must always qualify it by adding 'but at what cost?' at the end of the headline," he said. Living in China for about 25 years, Michelon, along with his contacts and business partners in various fields, has observed a recent resurgence of investments in China by major Western companies, including Tesla, Intel, Audi AG, BNP Paribas Asset Management, among others. "It's quite remarkable for a so-called 'economy in decline' that Western media claims," Michelon said. Such claims are so familiar, Michelon lamented. "In 2013, some Western people and media had already claimed that China's economy was collapsing, but China's GDP doubled from 2013 to 2022." He said certain people in the West are obsessed with badmouthing China's economy, but the reality always slaps them in the face. "They are like repeatedly uttering a spell, hoping repetition would create a self-fulfilling prophecy." Few European journalists would "tell the real China to readers," and even if they do, the report will most likely be blocked by editors, he sighed. "That's why some Western journalists who are willing to tell the truth eventually left the media." The Chinese economy possesses strong resilience and recovering capabilities. The economic and financial media in the West need to "stick to the reality of the Chinese economy," the scholar noted. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is scheduled to meet United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington, DC on Thursday, amid the diplomatic rumpus between India and Canada stirred over the killing of a Khalistani separatist. IMAGE: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar with United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of the G7 Summit, in Hiroshima on May 21, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo Although officials from both sides are tightlipped about the agenda of the meeting, the latest diplomatic crisis between two of America's friends, its traditional ally Canada and India, is expected to come up prominently during the talks. "I don't want to preview the conversations he (Blinken) will have in that meeting (with Jaishankar), but as we've made clear, we've raised this; we have engaged with our Indian counterparts on this and encouraged them to cooperate with the Canadian investigation, and we continue to encourage them to cooperate," State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters. He was responding to questions about the meeting between Jaishankar and Blinken at the Foggy Bottom headquarters of the State Department in Washington, DC on Thursday afternoon (which is about mid-night local India time). The two leaders are expected to pose for pictures ahead of the meeting and are not expected to take any questions from the media. While the meeting between the two top diplomats was scheduled much before the Canadian crisis broke out, the US has been urging India to cooperate in the Canadian investigation into the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia early this year. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has alleged that the Indian government was behind the killing of Nijjar, 45, outside a gurdwara in Surrey in British Columbia on June 18. India had designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020. India has rejected the allegations as 'absurd' and 'motivated' and expelled a senior Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move to Ottawa's expulsion of an Indian official. India has also asked Canada to crack down on terrorists and anti-India elements operating from its soil and suspended visa services for Canadians. Miller said that the issue did not come up for discussion in New York during the Quad ministerial that involved foreign ministers of the US, India, Japan and Australia. "It was a meeting of a number of countries and it did not come up in that meeting. But we have engaged with our Indian counterparts on this issue and urged them to fully cooperate with the Canadian investigation," the State Department spokesperson said. Jaishankar arrived in the American capital from New York after attending the annual General Assembly meetings of the United Nations on Tuesday. In addition to his meeting with Blinken, the external affairs minister is expected to have a series of meetings with senior officials of the Biden administration, review the progress made between the two countries after the historic State Visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June and talk about other regional and global issues. The minister is also expected to engage with the diaspora, think-tank community and interact with leaders from the corporate sector. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has apologised for the Canadian Parliament's recognition of a man who fought for a Nazi unit during World War II, an incident that drew global condemnation and was termed by the Opposition as the 'biggest single diplomatic embarrassment' in the country's history. IMAGE: Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau walks to his office on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario. Photograph: Blair Gable/Reuters Trudeau, already under pressure for jeopardising Canada's relations with India over the killing of a Khalistani separatist in Canada, said the Canadian government has reached out to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who was present during the event last Friday, in the wake of the incident. Russia has painted his enemies in Ukraine as 'neo-Nazis' after the incident although Zelenskyy is Jewish and lost relatives in the Holocaust. Speaker Anthony Rota, who has assumed responsibility for inviting Yaroslav Hunka, 98, resigned on Tuesday. The incident has drawn global condemnation. Hunka, who fought with a Nazi unit in World War Two, got a standing ovation and was praised as a Ukrainian and Canadian 'hero'. He served in the 14th Waffen-SS Grenadier Division, a voluntary unit made up mostly of ethnic Ukrainians under Nazi command. Division members are accused of killing Polish and Jewish civilians, although the unit has not been found guilty of any war crimes by a tribunal. "This was a mistake that has deeply embarrassed Parliament and Canada. All of us who were in this House on Friday regret deeply having stood and clapped even though we did so, unaware of the context," Trudeau told reporters, indicating his plans to personally address the House of Commons about the controversy for the first time since it exploded. He called the incident a 'horrendous violation' of the memory of the millions of people who died in the Holocaust and said it was 'deeply, deeply painful' for Jewish people, as well as members of the Polish, Roma, and LGBTQ2S+ communities who were also 'targeted by the Nazi genocide', CTV News reported. "Every year, there are fewer and fewer Holocaust survivors to share firsthand the horrors of what they experienced. And it is therefore incumbent upon us all to ensure that no one ever forgets what happened," Trudeau added before entering the chamber to offer similar remarks. It was the first time the prime minister personally addressed the House of Commons about the controversy since it exploded. Facing a series of pointed questions about the internationally condemned situation that transpired during Zelenskyy's address last Friday, Trudeau noted the Speaker was 'solely responsible' for Hunka's recognition. Still, Trudeau said Canada is 'deeply sorry' for the position this has put Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian delegation in, calling it 'extremely troubling' that such an egregious error, and the images captured of the moment, are being used as propaganda by Russia and its supporters to amplify false narratives about what Ukraine is fighting for. "Friday's joint session was about what Canada stands for, about our steadfast support of Ukraine's fight against Putin's brutality, lies and violence. It was a moment to celebrate and acknowledge the sacrifices of Ukrainians as they fight for their democracy, their freedom, their language and culture, and for peace. This is the side Canada was on in WW II, and this is the side we are on today," said the prime minister. While Rota's resignation calmed some of the initial acrimony, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh were among those pushing for Trudeau to heed requests from Jewish advocacy groups for a personal apology, noting that it wasn't enough for the Canadians who were feeling the shame the mistake had caused. Poilievre said inviting Hunka to attend Zelenskyy's historic address to Parliament is the 'biggest single diplomatic embarrassment' in the country's history. Poilievre blamed Trudeau for the mishap despite Rota's assertion that he alone was responsible for inviting the incident. In the question period, Singh questioned why it took Trudeau so long to say sorry, while Poilievre said Trudeau's apology on behalf of the country didn't go far enough. The Conservative leader repeatedly called on the prime minister to take personal responsibility for his 'personal failure' to vet all attendees, despite the Speaker's guest list not being shared with the Prime Minister's Office in advance, per parliamentary protocol. For events such as parliamentary addresses, each party in the House is granted a certain allotment of invitations and while a central protocol office compiles those submissions to send the invites, the lists are not shared between parties but are shared with corporate security to facilitate accreditation, according to the Speaker's office. "When foreign heads of state come here they expect that they will be protected, not only against security threats, but against massive global scale embarrassments and shames like the one he allowed to unfold before Canadians. So, will the prime minister commit to personally calling President Zelenskyy?" Poilievre asked. While the prime minister did not directly address this question about calling Zelenskyy, his office told CTV News that apologies were made to the Ukrainians at the 'ministerial level'. At the moment, the prime minister instead clapped back, questioning why Poilievre has not apologised for a trio of his MPs meeting with far-right German politician Christine Anderson earlier this year. "If the leader of the Opposition wants the government to help him vet those his MPs meet with, we'd be more than happy to give him some better advice," Trudeau said. Bilateral relations between India and Canada came under severe strain following Trudeau's allegations of a 'potential' involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia in June. Last week, India rejected the allegations as 'absurd' and 'motivated' and expelled a senior Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move to Ottawa's expulsion of an Indian official over the case. More than 20,000 idols were immersed in Mumbai till 9pm on Thursday on Anant Chaturdashi, the last day of Ganesh festivities, amid massive crowds, civic officials said. By 9pm, 20,195 idols were immersed, comprising 18,772 household ones, 1,019 'sarvajanik' or public idols and 304 of goddess Gauri, a Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation official said. IMAGE: Lalbaugcha Raja idol being taken for immersion in Mumbai. Photograph: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters He said a 16-year-old boy identified as Hasan Yusuf Shaikh was rescued from the sea at Juhu by lifeguards amid the immersions and rushed to nearby Cooper Hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival. There was no report of any other untoward incident during the immersions across the metropolis, the BMC official added. As per civic data, 7,381 of the 20,195 idols were immersed in artificial ponds set up by the civic body. The 7,381 idols comprise 7,084 household idols, 204 'sarvajanik' ones and 93 of goddess Gauri, the official added. Since early in the day, huge crowds gathered at various places in the city to catch a glimpse of their favourite deity, as decked up idols of Lord Ganesh in various forms and sizes were taken out of pandals for their final journey, accompanied by music, dance and prayers. Photograph: Sahil Salvi for Rediff.com IMAGE: Mumbaicha Raja idol being taken for immersion. The festival, which began with 'Ganesh Chaturthi' on September 19, is set to conclude on the 'Anant Chaturdashi' on Thursday with the immersion of idols in the Arabian Sea and other water bodies in Mumbai. IMAGE: A Ganesh idol being taken for immersion. Photograph: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters In Mumbai's Lalbaug area, famous for celebrating the festival with grandeur, the procession of idols of Tejukaya and Ganesh Gully mandals started with chants of 'Ganapati Bappa Morya, Pudhchya Varshi Lavkar Ya' (come soon next year Lord). IMAGE: Lalbaugcha Raja. Photograph: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters The procession of the famous Lalbaugcha Raja idol, that attracts maximum number of devotees during the 10-day festival, started at around 11.30 am. A large number of people were seen waiting on both sides of roads for the final 'darshan' of the idol. Photograph: Sahil Salvi for Rediff.com IMAGE: Lalbaugcha Raja. Thousands of people gathered on the streets of Lalbaug and other major procession routes of Ganesh idols to bid farewell to the deity with heartfelt prayers and witness the vibrant processions being taken out with music, dance and sprinkling of 'gulal' (vermillion powder). There was also a large gathering of people at Lalbaug's Shroff building to witness 'pushpavrusti' (showering of flowers) on the Ganesh idols. IMAGE: Lalbaugcha Raja idol being taken for immersion. Photograph: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters Crowds also assembled on the main road leading to Girgaon in south Mumbai, from where the maximum number of processions pass. These include the processions of Ganesh idols from Fort, Girgaon, Mazgaon, Byculla, Dadar, Matunga, Sion, Chembur and other areas. According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, as many as 1,65,964 idols, including several household idols, 'sarvajanik' (public) ones and idols of Goddess Gauri, were immersed in various water bodies in Mumbai including artificial ponds till the seventh day of the festival. A school teacher was arrested on Thursday for inciting communal hatred after she allegedly ordered a Muslim student to slap a Hindu classmate for not answering a question, the police said. IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: ANI Photo The incident took place at a private school on Tuesday in Dugawar village under the Asmoli police station limits in Sambhal district, they said. On the basis of a complaint filed by the Hindu boy's father, the teacher, Shaista, was booked under IPC sections 153A (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, etc) and 323 (voluntarily causing hurt), Additional SP Shrish Chandra said. The accused teacher has been arrested, the official added. The boy's father alleged that his son is a student of class 5 in the school where his class teacher got him slapped by a Muslim student after he could not answer a question asked by her. In his complaint, the father said that this hurt his son's religious feelings. A probe is on in the matter, Additional SP Chandra said. In a similar incident at Khubbapur village in Muzaffarnagar last month, a teacher of a private school had got a Muslim child slapped in a class by his classmates for not doing homework. A case was registered against the accused teacher, Tripta Tyagi, under IPC sections 323 (voluntary causing hurt) and 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace). The Supreme Court on September 25 said that there cannot be any quality education if a student is sought to be penalised on the ground that he belongs to a particular community as it pulled up the Uttar Pradesh government for shoddy probe in the Muzaffarnagar case. The top court directed the UP government to appoint a senior IPS officer within a week to probe the case. The police on Thursday recovered 80 kg of cocaine, worth nearly Rs 800 crore, dumped on the shore of a creek near the Gandhidham town of Gujarat's Kutch district, an official said. IMAGE: A screengrab from the video on the recovery of 80 kg of cocaine, worth nearly Rs 800 crore from the shore near Gandhidham, Gujarat, September 28, 2023. Photograph: ANI on X The banned drug was found in 80 packets, each weighing a kilo, the police said. It was perhaps left behind by smugglers to avoid getting caught as the police were already active in the region, said Sagar Bagmar, superintendent of police, Kutch-East division. The packets containing cocaine, a powerful central nervous system stimulant drug, were found abandoned on the shore of a creek passing from Mithi Rohar village near Gandhidham town, said Bagmar. Based on a tip-off about the delivery of a drug consignment, we were already active in this region. During our combing operation, we recovered 80 packets of cocaine, each weighing one kilogram, and worth Rs 800 crore, from the shore of the creek. It is possible that the smugglers might have dumped the contraband here out of fear of getting caught, said the SP. The Border Security Force and other agencies have been recovering packets containing heroin and cocaine at regular intervals from the coast near Jakhau, which is close to Pakistan, for the last two years. Investigations had established in the past that such packets washed ashore after they were dumped in the sea by smugglers to avoid getting caught. According to Bagmar, the packets recovered on Thursday from the creek near Gandhidham were not related to those found earlier. These packets are relatively fresh. They appear to be recently packed. We firmly believe that they are part of a consignment that we had been tracking after getting a tip-off recently, said Bagmar. The police in the Netherlands said two people were killed in two shootings at a house and university medical centre in Rotterdam city of Netherlands on Thursday. IMAGE: Police officers secure the area after Dutch police arrested a suspect after a shooting in Rotterdam, Netherlands, September 28, 2023. Photograph: Piroschka van de Wouw/Reuters In a statement shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, the Rotterdam police said that they had arrested a 32-year-old suspect and were carrying out investigation whether he was linked to the shootings. He was detained on the helipad of the university, The New York Times reported citing local media reports. The authorities said they had received an initial report of gunfire at 2:25 pm (local time) on Thursday. The shootings took place at an apartment and a Erasmus Medical Center, a prominent university medical school, in Rotterdam, according to the police. The police said they have identified a suspect in his mid-20s and warned that he had been seen wearing combat clothes, carrying a backpack and headphones and using a handgun, The New York Times reported. The police said, he may be on his way on a motorcycle." Erasmus Medical Center also advised people not to go to the facility because of various incidents," The New York Times reported. Gun violence is rare in the Netherlands. However in 2021, a Dutch crime reporter Peter R de Vries was shot in the head in Amsterdam. In 2019, Netherlands witnessed deadly shooting on a tram in Utrecht that killed at least three people and injured seven others. The police in Madhya Pradesh's Ujjain city on Thursday arrested an auto rickshaw driver for allegedly raping and brutalising a girl, aged about 12, who had been found wandering on the city streets in injured condition three days ago. Image only for representation. Photograph: PTI Photo The condition of the girl, admitted to an Indore hospital, was improving slowly, said a member of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) who visited the hospital. Accused Bharat Soni, detained during the probe, tried to escape when the police took him to the crime spot for recreating crime scene and collect evidence like torn clothes, said Mahakal police station in-charge Ajay Verma. He was chased by the policemen and caught when he fell on the cemented road after getting trapped around a corner, Verma told reporters. The incident took place near Jeevan Khedi locality and two policemen also sustained injured in the scuffle, he said. Soni, the only accused in the case, is a resident of Nanakheda area of the city, the official added. The police had detained him on the basis of CCTV footage earlier and claimed to have found blood stains on the passenger seat of his auto rickshaw. The condition of the girl, who underwent a major surgery at an Indore hospital on Wednesday, was improving, but she will take a long time to recover from the mental trauma, said a member of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) who visited the hospital. Why no one came to her aid when the girl was wandering on the Ujjain streets for more than two hours seeking help, asked NCPCR member Dr Divya Gupta. A counsellor interacted with her and found that she belongs to Satna district of Madhya Pradesh. Whether she was the same girl about whom a missing person's report had been filed will be confirmed after the missing girl's family identifies her, the police said. The girl was found bleeding on a road in Mahakal police station limits in Ujjain on Monday. She was taken to a hospital where medical examination found that she had been raped. She was operated upon by a team of specialist doctors at the Government Maharaja Tukojirao Holkar Women's Hospital in Indore on Wednesday. "The police have taken an auto rickshaw driver into custody on the basis of video footage. We also found blood stains on the passenger seat of his rickshaw," Ujjain Superintendent of Police Sachin Sharma said. "Five others are also being questioned," he said. The girl's identity was yet to be established as she could not tell her name, age and address properly, but a counsellor interacted with her and found that she belongs to Satna district, he said. A missing girl report had been filed at Jaitwara police station in Satna on September 25, Sharma added. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) of police is conducting further probe, the SP said. Satna's Additional Superintendent of Police Shivesh Singh Baghel said the missing person's report about a girl, aged around 13 years and wearing a school uniform, was filed at Jaitwara police station. This girl was a little cognitively-challenged as per the report filed by her family members, he said. "After seeing the images of the victim in school uniform (found in Ujjain), the police suspected that she is the same missing girl. A police team along with the missing girl's family members has been sent to Ujjain for identification," he said. Dr Divya Gupta, member (child health, care and welfare) of the NCPCR, visited the Holkar Women's Hospital in Indore during the day and met the doctors treating the girl. "The girl has lost a lot of blood and has undergone a major surgery. She has been given two bottles of blood so far. But with the treatment, her condition is gradually improving, Gupta, a gynaecologist herself, told PTI. "We have given strict instructions to the administration that no outsider should be allowed to meet the girl as she gets upset whenever she sees any stranger. She gestures that the person leave the room immediately, Gupta said. The girl belongs to a tribal area and hence she has directed the doctors to also test her for sickle cell anaemia, the NCPCR member added. "We are ensuring that the girl recovers physically as soon as possible, but it will take a lot of time for her to recover mentally. We can't even imagine what has happened to her. A female psychologist has also been appointed for the girl, Gupta said. The incident shows a mirror to society, she said. "After the rape, the girl wandered on the streets of Ujjain for two-and-half hours, seeking help....someone should have come forward to help this child. But no one came, she said. Gupta, who is associated with the ruling BJP, however, also said it was shameful that the case was being politicised in view of the coming assembly elections and the Congress was trying to settle political scores with the BJP. The Soggy Po' Boys bring the swinging music of New Orleans to Little City Cider on Oct. 7. TEHRAN, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Iran and Qatar on Wednesday agreed to start banking operations to enable Iran to use its recently unfrozen funds transferred to Qatari banks, Iran's official news agency IRNA reported. In a meeting in the Qatari capital of Doha, Governor of the Central Bank of Iran Mohammad Reza Farzin and his Qatari counterpart Bandar bin Mohamed bin Saud al-Thani also discussed ways to expand bilateral financial and banking relations. The two governors pointed to their countries' numerous economic capacities and diverse opportunities for expanding bilateral trade cooperation, highlighting the necessity for promoting financial and banking cooperation with each other, according to IRNA. On Sept. 18, Farzin said the Iranian assets previously frozen in South Korean banks, amounting to around 5.94 billion U.S. dollars, have been transferred to six Iranian accounts in two Qatari banks. The unfreezing of the Iranian assets was part of a Doha-brokered agreement between Tehran and Washington, under which the two sides also swapped 10 prisoners, with each side releasing five. You are the owner of this article. The Vermont Department of Motor Vehicle's satellite office on Route 5 in Dummerston will remain closed through at least January due to staffing issues. Susan Avery, of Brattleboro, holds a chip that is handed out to people who attend Nar-Anon Family Groups. People visit Disasters Expo USA at the Anaheim Convention Center in Orange County, California, the United States, on Sept. 27, 2023. Disasters Expo USA kicked off Wednesday in Southern California, focusing on the leading preparation, management, and recovery solutions for natural disasters. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua) LOS ANGELES, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Disasters Expo USA kicked off Wednesday in Southern California, focusing on the leading preparation, management, and recovery solutions for natural disasters. The two-day expo is held at the Anaheim Convention Center in Orange County of Southern California amid the U.S. National Preparedness Month, which falls on September. The expo draws a variety of leading disaster management and response professionals, showcasing the latest tools, strategies, and insights to enhance protection for communities around the world from natural disasters. Different regions in the United States are susceptible to varied types and frequencies of disasters, with the West Coast specifically suffering from wildfires due to extended periods of drought and high heat. The expo offered opportunities to better prepare for hazards and improve preparedness, response, mitigation, and recovery, said the organizer. September is the U.S. National Preparedness Month set up by the government as a one-of-a-kind campaign to enforce the importance for all citizens to be prepared for disasters and emergencies. Envo masks are seen during Disasters Expo USA at the Anaheim Convention Center in Orange County, California, the United States, on Sept. 27, 2023. Disasters Expo USA kicked off Wednesday in Southern California, focusing on the leading preparation, management, and recovery solutions for natural disasters. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua) Visitors look at a vehicle during Disasters Expo USA at the Anaheim Convention Center in Orange County, California, the United States, on Sept. 27, 2023. Disasters Expo USA kicked off Wednesday in Southern California, focusing on the leading preparation, management, and recovery solutions for natural disasters. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua) People visit Disasters Expo USA at the Anaheim Convention Center in Orange County, California, the United States, on Sept. 27, 2023. Disasters Expo USA kicked off Wednesday in Southern California, focusing on the leading preparation, management, and recovery solutions for natural disasters. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua) People visit Disasters Expo USA at the Anaheim Convention Center in Orange County, California, the United States, on Sept. 27, 2023. Disasters Expo USA kicked off Wednesday in Southern California, focusing on the leading preparation, management, and recovery solutions for natural disasters. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua) A man climbs a vehicle during Disasters Expo USA at the Anaheim Convention Center in Orange County, California, the United States, on Sept. 27, 2023. Disasters Expo USA kicked off Wednesday in Southern California, focusing on the leading preparation, management, and recovery solutions for natural disasters. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua) ROME, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Italy's Council of Ministers on Wednesday approved a new policy to strengthen its immigration regulation, potentially removing special age-related protections for young asylum seekers. The move is the latest in a series of reforms aimed at curbing the increasing influx of migrants arriving in Europe -- most of them to Italy's shores. Under the new policy, authorities will be allowed to assess the age of unaccompanied new arrivals. If these individuals are calculated over the age of 16, they may be placed in adult detention centers that are already filled beyond capacity. Prior to this change, children arriving in Italy without a guardian were afforded special protections under a European Union (EU) policy enacted six years ago. Additionally, this initiative empowers authorities to deport foreigners deemed to pose a risk to public order or national security. Last week, the government granted border officials the authority to detain individuals in detention centers for up to 18 months. According to data from the International Organization for Migration, nearly 200,000 migrants arrived in the EU by land and sea so far this year. Of these arrivals, around two-thirds have landed in Italy. BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese defense spokesperson on Thursday denounced the so-called "cyberspace threat" fabricated by the United States, urging the U.S. side to end its groundless smear against China and stop militarizing cyberspace. Wu Qian, spokesman for the Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks in response to a cyber strategy summary recently released by the U.S. Department of Defense, which claimed China as an "extensive and general threat to cyberspace." Cyberspace is supposed to be a new arena to benefit humanity instead of a new battlefield covered by thick smoke, said Wu, urging the U.S. to work with the international community to maintain cybersecurity. Frozen two months ago after elections neither free nor fair, officials now say the aid will benefit Cambodians. Cambodias Prime Minister Hun Manet meets with Acting Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in this photo posted Sept. 22, 2023. The U.S. State Department wont say why it unfroze US$18 million in aid to Cambodia suspended after the countrys election two months ago, which an official at the time called neither free nor fair. Cambodias new prime minister, Hun Manet, met with acting Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in New York on Friday. He later released a statement applauding the aid resumption, and said Nuland had welcomed the opportunity to enhance cooperation between the two countries. A spokesman for the Cambodian Peoples Party, which won 120 of 125 National Assembly seats the July 23 voter after again banning the opposition from running, then told a local newspaper the resumption means that the U.S. has recognised the national election. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in a briefing on Wednesday that he was unaware of the decision. The departments media relations team declined to answer questions about the aid, and referred them to the U.S. Agency for International Development. USAID told Radio Free Asia that the decision to unfreeze the $18 million after two months had been made after extensive and candid dialogue between American and Cambodian government officials. The programs we are resuming provide direct benefit to the Cambodian people by combatting the climate crisis and improving health outcomes, a USAID spokesperson said in an email. In our engagements with the Government of Cambodia and Cambodian partners, we have underscored that this decision is part of our commitment to helping advance a brighter and healthier future for the people of Cambodia in a more prosperous, democratic, and independent country where all voices are heard, they said. However, the spokesperson did not explain what had changed in two months, or comment on the claim that the reversal means the United States now recognizes the results of Cambodias July 23 election. A serious amount of money On July 24 the day after the election Miller had told reporters the freezing of the $18 million was a big deal that would last beyond this year alone and said that it was being cut in direct challenge to the legitimacy of the elections. We were troubled that the elections themselves were neither free nor fair, Miller said at a briefing. Cambodian authorities engaged in a pattern of threats and harassment against the political opposition throughout the electoral process, denied the Cambodian people a voice and choice in determining their future of the country. The [aid] restrictions will extend into future fiscal years, he said. Its a serious amount of money both this year, and in coming fiscal years. There seemingly remains hope in the State Department that Hun Manet, a 45-year-old West Point graduate, may offer the United States a chance to reset ties with Cambodia, which have been hamstrung by U.S. criticism of Hun Sens violent rule and Chinas rise. The new premier was in New York last week for the U.N. General Assembly, and delivered his address to world leaders exactly a month after his appointment to the role following the resignation of his father, Hun Sen, who had ruled Cambodia for nearly four decades. Hun Manet falsely claimed during the speech that the July 23 election was free and fair, and denied U.S. accusations that Cambodia was allowing China to build a military base on its southern coastline. Reset of ties On Wednesday, Hun Manet met with W. Patrick Murphy, the U.S. ambassador to Cambodia. Murphy released a statement praising Hun Manets productive engagements with U.S. officials in New York and calling on him to pursue an independent and balanced foreign policy. Murphy also noted that the resumption of U.S. aid was critical to the health of the Cambodian people, the statement said, but emphasized the importance of human rights and the protection of fundamental freedoms as integral to our bilateral relationship. Before heading to New York, though, Hun Manet on Sept. 14 made his first official trip overseas as Cambodia to Beijing. Hun Sen also wrote a letter to Chinese Premier Li Qiang after Julys election promising ties between the countries will not be changed with his son in charge. Seng Sary, a Cambodian political analyst granted asylum in Australia after he was ordered arrested in Cambodia, told RFA it was clear realpolitik was at play in the U.S. approach to Hun Manet, with the $18 million in unfrozen aid being the price of the ticket to be at the table. One thing that the United States wants for its political benefit, Sary said, is to not allow Cambodia to fall deeper into Chinese influence. China spends billions of dollars a year to manipulate global information flows, a new US government report says. American officials have been blindsided by the return over the past few decades of authoritarian propaganda and censorship as a force, says James Rubin, the special envoy and coordinator of the Global Engagement Center. China spends billions of dollars each year in efforts to achieve dominance in global information flows, a new U.S. government report says, with the aim of furthering its propaganda so countries subordinate their economic and security interests to Beijings. Released Thursday by the State Departments Global Engagement Center, which is tasked with countering foreign propaganda, the report also accuses Beijing of seeking to censor news around the world that contradicts its desired narratives on Taiwan, its human rights record, the South China Sea and its overseas development loans. The report says Chinese state-run companies have, for instance, purchased stakes in media across the world in order to ensure only positive stories about China are published, while promoting stories about problems in the United States and other democracies. At the same time, it says, Beijing has exported internet censorship technologies to many governments around the world with a particular focus on Africa, Asia, and Latin America before ensuring local officials then censor any information not to Beijings liking. Beijings efforts could result in a future in which technology exported by the PRC, coopted local governments, and fear of Beijings direct retaliation produce a sharp contraction of global freedom of expression, it says, using an acronym for Chinas government. An information war Speaking to reporters at the State Department, James Rubin, the special envoy and coordinator of the Global Engagement Center, said that American officials had been blindsided by the return over the past few decades of authoritarian propaganda and censorship. Were in an undeclared information war for a long time now and it's taken a while for us to appreciate it, Rubin said, calling it an error for the Clinton administration to close the U.S. Information Agency, which had a mission to to understand, inform and influence foreign publics. Rubin said too many American officials and diplomats believed the spread of the Internet would render state propaganda obsolete, and meant the U.S. government no longer had to work to counter it. People thought the internet and social media was going to be a solution, he said. I've talked to people who worked here during the 2000s they thought by spreading Twitter and Facebook, and all of these social media, that this was a way to spread democracy. They didn't think through the dark side of globalization, the dark side of these tools, the envoy added. We're not spending enough money. I think we should spend a lot more. Thats my personal opinion. Reputation laundering Another common form of Chinese disinformation is via laundering, the report says, where state-produced content is made to look organic. It outlines social media influencers being found out as fake personas created by Chinas government to surreptitiously promote views in line with Beijings, and even allegedly fake columnists like Yi Fan, whose commentaries have appeared in media around the world. A common form of Chinese disinformation is via laundering by which state-produced content is made to look organic to promote views in line with Beijings, and allegedly fake columnists are created like Yi Fan whose commentaries have appeared in media around the world. (RFA screenshot) Rubin there were also more traditional methods of laundering. He pointed to Xinhua, a Chinese government wire news service, which he said was largely accurate but reports heavily on every problem in the United States and only wonderful things that happened in China, and was often provided free-of-charge to media around the world. They take that wire service and provide it to third parties newspapers in Africa or Asia but insist that no other wire service gets used, he said, adding that it served to prioritize Beijings views of world events into articles seemingly written by local journalists. Think of how pernicious that is, he said. A Fiji editor is writing for a Fiji audience in a Fiji newspaper, with a Chinese view of the world. They are Chinese food, officials say, not appropriate for a key Korean holiday. North Korea is keeping mooncakes out of the country, saying they are an improper foreign influence during an important holiday. Authorities seized boxes of the dessert pastry with a sweet or savory filling from the luggage of trade officials returning from China for the autumn harvest festival, sources in the region told Radio Free Asia. This morning, I received a call from a trading company official who returned home saying that customs had confiscated the mooncakes he had bought in China, a North Korean trade worker stationed in China told RFA Korean Wednesday on condition of anonymity for security reasons. The reason why they are preventing the inflow of Chinese mooncakes is because they are a traditional Chinese food, not a traditional food of our people, he said. This was the first time such steps have been taken, he said. North Korean trade workers stationed in Chinas Liaoning province began the big rush home on Wednesday to celebrate Chuseok, the autumn harvest festival, and they will spend the next 10 days at home before returning to China, a source working at a trade agency in North Koreas North Pyongan province told RFA on condition of anonymity to speak freely. Many trade workers returning home are officials from trade organizations in Pyongyang and Sinuiju, a North Korean city that lies opposite the Yalu River border from Chinas Dandong, he said Among them are officials who returned home this morning with Chinese mooncakes. Korean Thanksgiving Chuseok is one of the most important holidays on the Korean peninsula and has drawn comparisons to Thanksgiving in the United States. It is the Korean version of the autumn holiday celebrated throughout Asia, falling on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, or Sept. 29 this year. On Chuseok, Koreans travel to meet their extended family and honor their ancestors with a large feast that typically includes a jesa table heaping with meat and fish, neatly stacked piles of fruit, pickled vegetables and handmade rice cakes called songpyon. But in the years that preceded the pandemic, mooncakes from Chinas version of the holiday began making an appearance in lieu of songpyon, as food shortages made the rice cakes impractical, the trade worker stationed in China said. He said that another reason they want to keep the mooncakes might be to try to get the people to buy more locally made snacks and breads. As mooncakes began spreading through North Korea just prior to the pandemic, they became more and more popular, including among families living in Pyongyang, according to the North Pyongan source. Mooncakes therefore began to be seen as a typical Chuseok food there. Demand for mooncakes has increased, so since last week trade workers stationed in China began to ship large amounts of them [across the border] for sale in the Pyongyang markets, he said. The authorities finally began cracking down on it. Translated by Claire Shinyoung Oh Lee. Edited by Eugene Whong and Malcolm Foster. The advocate for the ethnic Karen tribal community went missing at Kaeng Krachan National Park in 2014. Chaiwat Limlikit-aksorn, former chief of Kaeng Krachan National Park, talks to reporters as he arrives at the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases in Bangkok, Sept. 28, 2023. A Thai court on Thursday dismissed a murder charge against a former chief park ranger and his subordinates over the disappearance of an ethnic Karen activist, following nearly a decade of proceedings that have put a spotlight on judicial integrity. The judges said that the testimonies of the accused, Chaiwat Limlikit-aksorn, the former park ranger at Kaeng Krachan National Park, and his three ex-staffers, were dubious, but there wasnt sufficient proof that they had killed. The suspects were indicted on five charges last year in relation to the 2014 disappearance of Porlajee Rakchongcharoen, also known as Billy, who was an advocate for the Karen tribal community. The day Billy went missing, the rangers had detained him for questioning over the alleged illegal possession of honey. On Thursday, however, the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases found Chaiwat guilty only of misconduct, throwing out more serious charges of murder, unlawful detention, concealment of a corpse and intimidation. The three other defendants were acquitted of all charges. The first defendant [Chaiwat] is guilty for arresting Porlajee in possession of illegal honey, but failing to report the case and bring Porlajee to investigators this was misconduct. He is sentenced to three years in jail, while all other charges are dropped, the judges said in their ruling. Though the defendants testimonies were suspicious, there was no adequate evidence to show that they committed a crime, the judges said. The testimony of the prosecutors witnesses also "did not carry weight to prove that the four defendants killed Porlajee premeditatedly," they added. The court specializes in prosecuting state officials and others implicated in offenses related to bribery, intimidation, coercion and other malfeasance. Chaiwat, who is currently director of the governments national park division, was released on bail of 800,000 baht (US$21,700). Thursdays verdict was billed as a test for the Thai judicial system and in particular its commitment to solving enforced disappearances. The outcome, however, was labeled a disappointment by human rights advocates. The system allows government officials to stay in power for nine years, where they could have the opportunity to conceal evidence while the plaintiffs could not seek the truth, said Pornpen Khongkachonkiet, the director of the Cross Cultural Foundation. At a loss for words Billys widow, Pinapa Prueksawan, said after the ruling she was lost for words. I have been fighting all along because I want to know where Billy has gone, she told reporters through tears. Billy, who fought for land rights after Chaiwat allegedly sought to move ethnic people from Kaeng Krachan National Park, went missing on April 17, 2014, after park officers stopped him at a checkpoint while he was traveling to meet Karen villagers. Billys widow, Pinapa Prueksawan, talks to reporters after hearing the verdict in Bangkok, Sept. 28, 2023. Credit: Nontarat Phaicharoen/BenarNews Billy was to testify the next day in a case filed by Karen farmers against Chaiwat, the chief park officer at the time, and others. The locals alleged that the park officials had ransacked and burned their homes and properties in nearby Pongluek-Bangkloy in 2011. Kaeng Krachan, Thailands largest national park, is home to ethnic Bwa GNaw people, also known as Karen, Kariang or Yang, who are members of a hill tribe scattered across Myanmar, Laos and Thailand. Karen communities sometimes practice slash-and-burn farming, which can lead to conflict with forestry officials, especially when certain zones are declared forest reserves or protected national parkland. Family sued Chaiwat Human Rights Watch said Billy was also carrying case files and related documents when he was detained, adding those files were never recovered. Chaiwat was acquitted over insufficient evidence in 2014. Billys family sued Chaiwat for the disappearance, but the case was dismissed after a judge ruled there that there was not enough evidence to prosecute. The park ranger and his aides had told police they released Billy after questioning him for illegally gathering wild honey. Later, with the help of rights advocates, Billys widow lodged a new complaint asking Thailand's Department of Special Investigation, or DSI, to reopen the case. In September 2019, DSI members found bone fragments in an oil tank submerged inside the national park reservoir. After DNA analysis confirmed the missing activists remains, officials issued arrest warrants two months later. The four turned themselves in to authorities in Bangkok. Citing a lack of evidence, a Thai public prosecutor in January 2020 announced that the charges against the four, including murder, were dropped. The case took a new turn in 2022 when the new leader of the DSI assumed office. The Thai Attorney Generals Office later indicted Chaiwat in September of last year. Amnesty International regional researcher Chanatip Tatiyakaroonwong condemned Thursdays ruling. It's disappointing for the family who has been fighting this issue for almost 10 years, he told Agence France-Presse. BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated online news organization. This story contains graphic and disturbing descriptions of killing. Junta troops killed a Peoples Defense Force member and two civilians in Sagaing regions Pale township this week, Pale Peoples Administration Group told Radio Free Asia on Thursday. Residents of Nyaung Kone village fled ahead of a morning raid by around 80 soldiers on Tuesday. When some returned later in the day, troops arrested and killed three of them, according to the administration groups Kyaw Soe Win. [Some locals] were watching to see if the junta troops would leave the village. They entered the village to have a look, he said. When we entered the village on Wednesday morning, we saw some locals and a Peoples Defense Force soldier had been brutally killed. Their hands were cut off and they were beheaded. Kyaw Soe Win said three Peoples Defense Force members managed to escape but were hit and injured by artillery fragments. Pro-junta Telegram messaging channels said three defense force soldiers were killed. The junta spokesperson for Sagaing, Sai Naing Naing Kyaw, told RFA he was not aware of the incident. It's not known if the latest raid was carried out by the juntas notorious Ogre Column although the method of killing was similar to their tactics. In March and April this year, Ogre Column troops raided Sagaing, Ye-U, Khin-U, Myinmu, Taze and Myaung townships in Sagaing region, cutting off limbs and beheading people they captured. More than 800,000 people have been forced to abandon their homes in Sagaing region to escape the fighting, according to the United Nations. Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Mike Firn and Elaine Chan. Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with foreign experts who have received the Chinese Government Friendship Award for outstanding foreign experts in China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 28, 2023. Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang attended the event. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin) BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- China welcomes talents from all over the world and expects foreign experts to continue their in-depth participation in China's development, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said Thursday. Li made the remarks at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing when meeting with foreign experts who had received the Chinese Government Friendship Award for outstanding foreign experts in China. Li thanked foreign experts for their excellent contributions to promoting China's scientific and technological progress, personnel training, and modernization. Noting that the foreign experts have come to China to promote exchanges, strengthen cooperation, and spread friendship with their concrete actions, Li said this is particularly valuable in a world full of changes and chaos. China is comprehensively promoting Chinese modernization with high-quality development, which will release massive development opportunities and provide a broad stage for business, Li said. The premier said the Chinese government will continue to optimize relevant policies, effectively protect the legitimate rights and interests of foreign experts, and strive to create a better working and living environment for them. The foreign experts expressed their gratitude for the award and willingness to continue to contribute to Chinese modernization as well as to promoting exchanges and cooperation between China and other countries. The islands indigenously developed prototype will be delivered to the navy by 2024. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen attends the unveiling ceremony for Taiwans first domestically produced submarine in Kaohsiung, Taiwan on Sept. 28, 2023. President Tsai Ing-wen on Thursday presided over a naming ceremony and launch of Taiwans first domestically assembled submarine amid concerns in expert corners that the effort was too little, too late. Tsai said that with the Hai Kun a mythical Chinese shape-changing sea beast with the power of flight "Taiwan will have three submarines with full combat capabilities" in 2025. One more locally manufactured sub is planned for 2027. According to the Ministry of Defense, the diesel-electric Hai Kun cost US$1.54 billion and will go by the name Narwhal in English. Speaking in a hangar in the southern city of Kaohsiung, where the massive new sub was mounted, draped with the Republic of China flag, Tsai said, "Today will go down in history." Chinas nationalist tabloid Global Times said Taiwan was deceiving itself over the subs defensive capabilities. The island of Taiwan's submarine deployment plan to block the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) from entering the Pacific Ocean is daydreaming, it said. But Taiwans Tsai, nevertheless, delivered a feisty, rousing speech to mark the launch. The submarine project is essential for defending Taiwans maritime borders, said Tsai. The efforts of everyone not only set a new milestone for Taiwan's defense autonomy but have also brought honor and pride to our navy, military and Taiwan. Vexing problem Taiwans submarine fleet has long been a vexing problem for politicians with a proactive defense agenda, given that China has never disavowed annexing Taiwan by force if peaceful unification cannot be achieved. The Taiwanese navy has four veteran submarines two WWII relics provided by the U.S. in the 1970s, used for training, and the other two bought second-hand from the Netherlands, dating back to the 1980s. Taiwan originally planned to add seven domestically assembled submarines to its fleet, but at present there is no formal schedule for further assembly. With the addition of the Narwhal to the Netherlands vessels, Taiwan will have a fleet of three operational submarines in 2025. Wendell Minnick, an American military expert and author of the China in Arms Substack, explained that the Hai Kun, or Narwhal, was a prototype by definition, because the first submarine or ship in any navy is a prototype. The second is a test platform, and the third, maybe, will be the first operational submarine. Minnick added, Whether the timeline for invasion allows them to build enough operational submarines for war is a question mark. I do salute their progress, but too little, too late. Asked whether he agreed with Minnicks assessment, Dr Lin Ying-yu, assistant professor at Tam Kang University, said, Better late than never. Fraught history, uncertain future Taiwans indigenous submarine efforts have long been stymied by wavering support from key allies, the U.S. and European powers, all of which until recently were wary of incurring the wrath of an ascendent China. Much of the expertise and critical components that made the Thursday prototype launch possible is due to Japanese support Japanese experts and submarine design. The U.S. has come to play a role more recently during the Trump and Biden administrations, as relations between China and the U.S. soured and the U.S. turned its attention to financing deterrents to Chinese expansionism in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea. Taiwan Navy officers stand in front of the Hai Kun, Taiwans first domestically produced submarine. Credit: RFA Lin of Tam Kang University justified the home-grown submarine effort, arguing that the PLA Navy was growing its fleet at such pace that Taiwan had to find ways to protect its territorial integrity. Submarines can be used against the entire PLA Navy but especially aircraft carriers like the Shandong, which has been operating near Taiwan, he said. Recently the PLA Navy has been staging a kind of blockade around Taiwan so we should try to deny them access. We need to make the first step and help ourselves before expecting other countries to step in and help us, Lin added. Jyh-Shyang Sheu, assistant research fellow at the Taiwan Institute for National Defense and Security Research said the newly developed submarine and its future iterations would provide Taiwan with much needed advantages due to stealth. Locating enemy submarines and carrying out anti-submarine warfare is a massive time and resource sink for attacking forces, said Sheu, adding that this would provide Taiwan with strategic advantage. He added, With land attack cruise missiles, that could also help Taiwan [achieve] the defeat of the PLAs critical assets from unpredictable places. The catch, the military researcher admitted, is the cost. Taiwan needs to protect itself, he said, But submarines are extremely expensive, so we need to organize that. American military analyst Minnick, who worries that time is running out for Taiwan to build enough operational submarines for war, also worries that Taiwans submarine program may create additional problems if and when war breaks out. The U.S. Navy didnt want Taiwan to build subs, says Minnick. There are already too many subs in the water already to keep track of too much underwater congestion making it too easy for the U.S. Navy to [target] the wrong boat. Says Minnick, China has around 60 types of submarines. Their role is not to attack Taiwan but to sink U.S. ships. The U.S. Navy does not want the burden of trying to tell the difference between Taiwan and Chinese subs in the water, he said. Edited by Mike Firn and Elaine Chan. Rahile Dawut, an internationally recognized expert in Uyghur folklore who disappeared in Chinas northwestern Xinjiang region nearly six years ago was recently confirmed to be serving a life sentence for "endangering state security," according to the U.S.-based human rights group Dui Hua. Prior to her disappearance in December 2017, Dawut had founded and directed a folklore research institute at Xinjiang University, and wrote dozens of journal articles and books, including studies on Islamic sacred sites in Central Asia, and presented her work at conferences around the world. Rahile Dawut was tried and convicted in December 2018 for the crime of splittism by an intermediate peoples court in Xinjiang, and unsuccessfully appealed that sentence. Her daughter Akida Polat, who lives in the U.S., told Radio Free Asia in a recent interview that she was devastated by the news: Akida Polat: My first reaction was that I couldnt believe it, I couldnt believe it at all. I was extremely sad to hear this news, but I was also very angry. I knew that my mother might have been given a very long sentence, but I didn't expect ... life imprisonment. My anger towards the Chinese Communist Party has reached its peak. I have always known about the cruelty of the Chinese Communist Party. But its not just me. There are many Uyghurs around me whose family members are also in prison. Yet, we all hold onto a little bit of hope that we can one day see our family members again. RFA: What is your view of the crime she was imprisoned for? Polat: It's more than unfair. I would describe it very firmly as nonsense. None of my mother's work, nor the way she went about it, nor anything in her personal life had anything to do with "endangering state security." Akida Polat says of her mother, Rahile Dawut [shown]: 'My mothers job has always been to study Uyghur culture, go to different villages to interview residents, and protect the Uyghur culture that is about to disappear.' Credit: X@UHRP_Chinese RFA: What does her work entail? Polat: She is a folklorist. According to my understanding, [that] is about learning and researching a culture, preserving that culture, and showing that culture to the world, all at the same time. That is the nature of it. My mothers job has always been to study Uyghur culture, go to different villages to interview residents, and protect the Uyghur culture that is about to disappear. At the same time, she travels across the country and around the world to showcase this culture. What does this have to do with national security? RFA: So, why did the Chinese government sentence your mother for endangering national security? Polat: In the past few years, we have seen the Chinese Communist Party detain a large number of Uyghurs. This is a form of persecution. At the same time, they imprisoned hundreds of Uyghur intellectuals. Their behavior demonstrates that they want to persecute the Uyghurs and eliminate Uyghur culture. Disappeared from my life RFA: Your mother was arrested by the local government in Xinjiang in December 2017. Have you had any contact with her since then? Polat: I haven't spoken to or seen my mother since December 2017. I really want to see her, even if it's just a phone call to ask how she is doing in prison, whether she is healthy, and to hear her voice, and at least to know that she is still alive. But I haven't had that chance. Instead, my mother has disappeared from my life. Akida Polat [shown]: 'I haven't spoken to or seen my mother since December 2017. I really want to see her, even if it's just a phone call to ask how she is doing in prison, whether she is healthy, and to hear her voice, and at least to know that she is still alive.' Credit: Screenshot from RFA video RFA: It has been almost six years now. Has your family in China gotten in touch with her? Polat: I dont know, because I dont have the WeChat accounts of other family members in China, so I have no way to communicate with them. I can't communicate as freely with my relatives in China as I used to, so I don't know if they have met or been in contact with my mother. I don't know any of this. RFA: Does that mean your contact with other family members in China is censored and restricted? Polat: Except for immediate family members, yes. RFA: Your mother was arrested by the Chinese government at the end of 2017. What was the situation in Xinjiang at that time? Polat: I can describe it with just one word -- fear. Just before my mother was arrested, I began to hear about Uyghurs from abroad who had returned to China and were imprisoned in re-education camps; we also heard about some Uyghurs we knew in China who had been arrested and sentenced. We started hearing about ... the confiscation of Uyghur passports. Those of us who are overseas were also in a state of fear, worrying about why such things were happening. We have to speak out RFA: Regarding the large-scale detention of innocent Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in Xinjiang reported by international media, is this reporting consistent with your own understanding? Polat: I think [the reports are] consistent with what has been going on in Xinjiang in recent years. The Uyghurs around me have family members who have been arrested, and there is no way to contact their families, and we daren't go back because passports are being confiscated from people there, so it's hard for them to go overseas. We have seen all of these things. RFA: Are there any other Uyghur intellectuals that you know of who were also arrested? Polat: We have heard of others, like Tashpolat Tiyip, the former president of Xinjiang University, and some of my relatives who are also intellectuals. They were arrested and sentenced; as we have seen in [international media] reports. Some intellectuals who were household names among the Uyghurs were also arrested. Rahile Dawut, an ethnographer and expert in Uyghur folklore, was tried and convicted by Chinese authorities in December 2018. Credit: Akida Polat/Freemymom.org RFA: Have any of them been released? Polat: I think very few. At least none of the intellectuals among my relatives have been released. For example, my uncle founded a software company and is very famous in the local area and a very talented person. I haven't yet heard any reports that he has been released. RFA: Have you taken part in any of the solidarity activities along with others in exile to put pressure on the Chinese government to release incarcerated Uyghurs? Akida Polat: There have been times when I didnt dare to speak out, but there were also times when I did. We have to speak out because our family members have been locked up despite being innocent. After my mother was sentenced to life imprisonment, I told myself you have to speak out, because I couldn't bear the thought of my mother spending the rest of her life in prison. Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Boarding schools teach mostly in Mandarin, with little or no use of Uyghur or other minority languages. A woman walks past the entrance to the No. 4 High School also known as the Peyzawat Bilingual High School with signs reading Entering School Grounds, Please speak Mandarin' [left] and Parents Waiting Zone in Peyzawat, Chinas western Xinjiang region, Aug. 31, 2018. Experts from the United Nations have expressed grave concern over allegations that Chinese officials in Xinjiang have expanded a government-run boarding school system that forcibly separates Uyghur and other minority Muslim children from their families and communities. The experts were also concerned that the boarding schools teach almost exclusively in Chinas official language of Mandarin with little or no use of Uyghur as medium of instruction, according to a statement released by the U.N.s human rights office on Tuesday. The separation of mainly Uyghur and other minority children from their families could lead to their forced assimilation into the majority Mandarin language and the adoption of Han cultural practices, the U.N. experts said. Scholars as well as previous RFA reporting have found that thousands of Uyghur children whose parents have been detained have been sent to camps, boarding schools and orphanages. Efforts to assimilate Uyghurs at younger ages gathered steam after the Chinese government undertook a mass detention and internment campaign in 2017 that saw up to 1.8 million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities incarcerated in a network of detention camps. The U.N. experts said on Tuesday that they were recently informed of an exponential increase in recent years in the number of boarding schools for other Muslim and minority children in Xinjiang, the statement said. Theyve also learned that local schools where Uyghur and other minority languages were used for instruction have been closed. The Chinese governments actions are a violation of minorities right to education without discrimination, family life and cultural rights, the experts said. The massive scale of the allegations raises extremely serious concerns of violations of basic human rights, they said. Deserves more attention In response to the statement, the Uyghur Human Rights Project called on U.N. member states to vote against Chinas upcoming bid for re-election to the U.N. Human Rights Council. Uyghur children are torn from their parents as state policy, the organizations executive director, Omer Kanat, said. Its past time for U.N. member states to recognize this is a genocide. Also on Tuesday, the United States government said it had determined that genocide and crimes against humanity continued to occur in Chinas Xinjiang region in 2022. That announcement came as Washington blacklisted three more companies located in Xinjiang because of their use of forced Uyghur labor a move that bans American companies from importing their goods. Xinjiang region expert Adrian Zenz, who first reported on the boarding schools in 2019, said he was grateful for the U.N. experts statement. But Im also wondering why it took so long and why did it take the U.N. so long? he told Radio Free Asia. The U.N. should write its own report summarizing existing research on the issue, and the U.N. Human Rights Council could follow up with a resolution condemning China, he said. It just deserves more attention, he said. The international community has really paid no attention to this. The U.N. experts are Fernand de Varennes, a special rapporteur on minority issues, Alexandra Xanthaki, a special rapporteur in the field of cultural rights, and Farida Shaheed, a special rapporteur on education. Edited by Matt Reed. Updated Sept. 28, 2023, 5:35 pm ET. A Vietnamese court sentenced climate activist Hoang Thi Minh Hong to three years in prison for tax evasion on Thursday, a state newswire reported Thursday. The court also fined her the equivalent of US$,4,000 and told her to pay back more than $274,000 in taxes. The charge carries a maximum seven years jail term plus a fine. This conviction is a total sham, nobody should be fooled by it, said Ben Swanton, co-director of The 88 Project. The trial bore all the hallmarks of a show trial. The hearing lasted less than three hours, indicating that the outcome had been rigged in advance. Hongs conviction is yet another example of the Vietnamese government weaponizing the law to punish the countrys climate activists for daring to challenge the communist partys monopoly on policymaking, added Swanton. Hong, 51, was the founder and executive director of CHANGE VN a non-profit organization which aimed to raise environmental awareness in order to protect nature, combat climate change and promote sustainable development. She shut down the organization in October last year following the arrest of several environmental activists. The court was told that CHANGE generated more than US$2.8 million in revenue between 2012 and 2022, the Thanh Nien online news site reported. The indictment stated that Hong told her employees not to issue invoices in order to evade tax to the tune of $274,000. Hong admitted the crime, the newswire said, adding that she tried to get her family to recover some of the money in order to receive leniency from the court. She is the fifth activist in Vietnam to have been arrested on the charge of tax evasion, prompting criticism from international organizations and foreign governments. The Vietnamese authorities are using the vaguely worded tax code as a weapon to punish environmental leaders whom the ruling Communist Party deems a threat to their power, said Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director at Human Rights Watch. The government should stop punishing activists for peacefully advocating action on climate change and for green policies. The Vietnamese government has been jailing environmental activists even after accepting US$15.5 billion to help it cut carbon emissions through the Just Energy Transition Partnership, funded by the U.S., Canada, Japan, U.K, E.U. and some European countries. Having imprisoned the countrys human rights defenders and democracy activists, the Vietnamese government is now targeting those working for a cleaner, more sustainable environment, Robertson said. International donors need to be clear with Vietnams leaders that the Just Energy Transition Partnership cannot move forward so long as environmental activists are under attack. On Thursday, the U.S. Department of State said it was "deeply concerned" by Hong's conviction and sentencing in a statement by spokesperson Matthew Miller. It called on Vietnam to "release all those unjustly detained" and to ensure its tax law is "enforced in a transparent, impartial manner that ensures nongovernmental organizations can operate without fear of undue targeting or prosecution." The previous day, the U.N. Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights said it was concerned about the arrest of green energy expert Ngo Thi To Nhien. The executive director of the Vietnam Initiative for Energy Transition was detained on Sept. 15 by the Hanoi police. Her arrest came just days after a visit to Hanoi by U.S. President Joe Biden, who raised human rights and environmental concerns with Vietnams top leaders. Nhien had worked with the U.N. Development Programme, the World Bank and USAID. In a statement to RFA, the U.N. rights office said it was aware of Nhiens arrest and was following the developments with concern. Translated by RFA Vietnamese. Edited by Mike Firn and Taejun Kang. Updated to add a quote from Ben Swanton and a statement from the U.S. Department of State. Thousands more people poured into Armenia from Nagorno-Karabakh on September 28, prompting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian to accuse Azerbaijan of "ethnic cleansing" and warn that no Armenian will remain in the breakaway region following a lightning military offensive that gave Baku total control over the ethnic-Armenian populated territory. Pashinian's spokeswoman, Nazeli Baghdasarian, said that a total of 76,407 people had entered Armenia from Nagorno-Karabakh as of 8 p.m. local time on September 28, amounting to more than half of the region's estimated 120,000 inhabitants. "This is a direct act of ethnic cleansing that we warned the international community about," Pashinian told a government meeting on September 28, calling for concrete action by the international community. "Statements condemning ethnic cleansing by various international players are important, but if they are not followed by concrete actions, these statements will be seen as creating moral statistics for history, so that in future different countries will have the opportunity to formally dissociate themselves from this crime, saying we have condemned it," said Pashinian. WATCH: The journey out of the crisis-hit region can take days and many arrive exhausted and hungry. Armenian volunteers are doing what they can to provide relief to the tens of thousands of displaced people who have flooded into the country since Azerbaijan launched an attack on Nagorno-Karabakh on September 19. Pashinian added that if the trend continued, no ethnic Armenians will be left in Karabakh in the coming days. Baku has denied accusations of ethnic cleansing and said it wants to "reintegrate" the enclave's ethnic Armenian population into Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry on September 28 urged ethnic Armenians to remain in Nagorno-Karabakh. "We call on Armenian residents not to leave their homes and become part of Azerbaijan's multi-ethnic society," the ministry said in a statement. Russia, which used to be Armenia's main military backer but has been criticized by Yerevan for its peacekeepers' failure to prevent the fall of Nagorno-Karabakh, said fleeing Armenians had nothing to fear. "It's difficult to say who is to blame [for the exodus]. There is no direct reason for such actions," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in an apparent rejection of Armenia's claims of ethnic cleansing. "People are nevertheless expressing a desire to leave.... Those who made such a decision should be provided with normal living conditions," Peskov added. WATCH: Thousands of ethnic Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh have flooded into the border town of Goris after enduring an arduous journey out of the the crisis-hit region. RFE/RL spoke with refugees in Armenia who said they left everything behind and hadn't eaten in days. The exodus began after Azerbaijan opened the only road leading from Karabakh to Armenia four days after a cease-fire agreement that ended the September 19-20 Azerbaijani military operation which gave Baku complete control over the region. Armenia and Azerbaijan have fought two wars in the last three decades over the region, which had been a majority ethnic Armenian enclave within the internationally recognized border of Azerbaijan since the Soviet collapse. The region initially came under the control of ethnic Armenian forces, backed by the Armenian military, in separatist fighting that ended in 1994. During a war in 2020, however, Azerbaijan took back parts of Nagorno-Karabakh along with surrounding territory that Armenian forces had claimed during the earlier conflict. The U.S. ambassador to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) said ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh should be able to remain in their homes with respect for their rights and security, if they choose, and those who leave and return should be allowed safe passage overseen by a neutral, independent third party. "We would expect that those Nagorno-Karabakh residents who depart for Armenia would be able to return freely to their homes once it is safe to do so," Ambassador Michael Carpenter told an OSCE Permanent Council meeting in Vienna. He also said Azerbaijan has a responsibility to protect civilians and to ensure the humane treatment of all, including those it suspects of being combatants. Carpenter reiterated a call for an independent international mission to provide security in the region and called for unhindered access for international humanitarian organizations. As the exodus continued, sparking more fears of a major humanitarian crisis, the de facto leader of Nagorno-Karabakh said the self-styled separatist entity will cease to exist as of January 1. Samvel Shahramanian said the move was prompted by the situation created after Azerbaijan's taking complete control of the region. His decree mentioned a cease-fire agreement reached last week to end the fighting under which Baku pledged to permit the free, voluntary, and unrestrained passage of Nagorno-Karabakh's ethnic Armenian residents, including ''soldiers who have laid down arms." That fighting ended with a Russian-brokered cease-fire and the deployment of Russian peacekeepers. Those peacekeepers did little, however, to prevent the advances by Azerbaijani forces. As concerns over the humanitarian situation in the region grew, U.S. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said Washington would work with allies and partners on an international monitoring mission. With reporting by AP, AFP, and Reuters Over half the estimated population of 120,000 ethnic Armenians living in Nagorno-Karabakh has fled to Armenia, according to Yerevan officials. The journey out of the crisis-hit region can take days and many arrive exhausted and hungry. Armenian volunteers are doing what they can to provide relief to the tens of thousands of displaced people who have flooded into the country since Azerbaijan launched an attack on Nagorno-Karabakh on September 19. Pakistan on November 1 began rounding up undocumented foreigners, the vast majority of them Afghans, hours ahead of the deadline for them to evacuate the country. The country's Interior Ministry said in a statement before the midnight deadline that "a process to arrest the foreigners...for deportation" had begun, but that voluntary return would still be encouraged. The undocumented foreigners were reportedly being transferred to transit centers. Officials in the southwestern port city of Karachi, Pakistan's largest city and capital of Sindh Province, said that up to 40 people without proper documents had been moved to one of the transit centers. WATCH: Pakistani authorities have cracked down on undocumented foreigners, mostly Afghans, ahead of a deadline to leave the country or face deportation. In Karachi, Afghan men and boys on November 1 were put on buses and taken to a temporary detention center. Pakistan announced in early October that it would expel an estimated 1.7 million undocumented immigrants who remained in the country after November 1. As the deadline approached, tens of thousands of Afghans -- some who have been in Pakistan for decades -- made their way back to Afghanistan with their families and belongings. In the northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, which borders Afghanistan, officials said on November 1 that more than 100,000 Afghan nationals had returned to their homeland via the Torkham border crossing in the past two weeks. WATCH: Authorities in Islamabad demolished mud houses belonging to Afghan refugees on October 31, a day ahead of a deadline for them to leave Pakistan. An estimated 1.7 million Afghans living illegally in Pakistan have been told to return to their country or face detention and deportation. An undetermined number of Afghans have returned to Afghanistan by way of the Chaman border crossing in the southwestern Balochistan Province. Overall, more than 140,000 people had voluntarily left Pakistan following the government's October 3 order, according to Pakistan's Interior Ministry. Pakistan's move to remove undocumented foreigners is seen as part of an anti-immigrant crackdown that has been criticized by human rights groups and the United Nations. On October 31, the chair of the nongovernmental Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, Hina Jilani, wrote the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) warning that Islamabad's move to expel Afghans could "trigger a humanitarian crisis." "The decision amounts to forced repatriation, which is not recognized under international customary law, and will invariably affect vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers, which include women, children, the elderly, persons living with disabilities, persons from low-income groups, and Afghans at risk because of their professions -- many of whom fled Afghanistan after the Afghan Taliban took over the government in August 2021," Jilani wrote. Ahmad Afghan, an Afghan national who lives in Islamabad, told RFE/RL's Radio Azadi that he and his family left Afghanistan after the Taliban regained power in Kabul. He said his visa has since expired and he has been unable to extend it as he and his family await documents to move to a third country. "We are very worried. We cannot go back to Afghanistan," Afghan said. "If we go back to Afghanistan, [the Taliban] will kill us -- 100 percent." Pakistan has been a popular refuge for Afghans for decades, beginning during the 1979-89 Soviet occupation. Others fled fighting during the ensuing Afghan civil war and the Taliban's first stint in power from 1996 to 2001. Millions of Afghans returned to their homeland following the U.S.-led invasion that toppled the Taliban from power. Some 3.7 million Afghans fleeing war, poverty, and political upheaval in their homeland currently reside in Pakistan, according to the United Nations, with Islamabad putting the number as high as 4.4 million. Officials in Islamabad have said that about 1.4 million Afghans possess documents allowing them to legally stay in Pakistan and that the order for undocumented immigrants to leave affects 1.7 million people. Afghanistan's ruling Taliban has previously criticized the move to remove undocumented Afghans from Pakistan, saying they are being punished for tensions between Kabul and Islamabad. On November 1, the Taliban called on the Pakistani government to give undocumented Afghans more time to leave as large numbers of evacuees created bottlenecks at the Pakistan-Afghan border. While thanking Pakistan and other countries that have harbored Afghans over years of conflict in Afghanistan, the Taliban asked Islamabad "to not forcibly deport Afghans with little notice, but give them time to prepare." Mohammad Zaman, an Afghan national who spoke to Radio Azadi at the Torkham border crossing on November 1, said the large group his family traveled with struggled to prepare for the evacuation. "More than 30 families came with us. They are people who had left their country due to poverty. They are people who could not find a loaf of bread, so they left the country and came [to Pakistan]," Zaman said. "Instead of supporting us, Pakistan gave us a very short deadline. The deadline was so short that we couldn't even wrap up our businesses." An Afghan national who spoke to Radio Azadi on condition of anonymity following his arrival in Afghanistan's southern Kandahar Province expressed hope that he and his children would be treated fairly by the Taliban. "I swear by God, I have neither a place to live in nor a piece of land," the man said, adding that he and his family had moved to Pakistan in search of work. "I ask the Taliban to provide us with shelter, at least a tent to live in.... Here, we may die of hunger." On November 1, Afghanistan's state news agency, Bakhtar, which is under Taliban control, said the Taliban government had dedicated 2 billion Afghanis (about $27 million) to provide returnees "with basic needs." With reporting by Reuters Radesh Singh Tony survived three assassination attempts in 2018, forcing him and his family to flee their home in Pakistan's northwestern city of Peshawar. Tony, a member of the tiny Sikh religious minority in predominately Muslim Pakistan, had run in the parliamentary elections that year on a platform of tolerance. The threats to the family persisted even when they moved to the eastern city of Lahore, where Tony and his teenage son were brutally beaten by a group of hard-line Islamists in 2019. The incident compelled Tony and his family to escape to neighboring India, where the vast majority of the world's estimated 25 million Sikhs reside. Pakistan's Sikhs have "repeatedly demanded protection in the face of rising security threats," said Tony. "But our complaints and demands have been ignored." Tony and his family are among the thousands of Sikhs who are believed to have fled Pakistan's northwestern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, of which Peshawar is the capital, in the face of deadly militant attacks and growing religious intolerance in recent years. Many Sikhs have relocated to other areas of Pakistan, a South Asian nation of some 240 million. Others have fled abroad. Tony estimates that around 70 percent of the around 30,000 Sikhs who lived in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have left the province in the past decade. Some 30 Sikh politicians, activists, and businessmen have been killed in attacks since 2013, according to Tony. Three members of Pakistan's Sikh minority have been killed so far this year. In June, Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) claimed responsibility for killing a Sikh man who was on his way home in Peshawar. In May, gunmen shot and killed a Sikh man in Lahore. A month earlier, IS-K militants said they shot and killed a Sikh man in Peshawar. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a mountainous province bordering Afghanistan, has been the scene of attacks by the Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and IS-K extremist groups for years. The militants have carried out deadly attacks against religious minorities, including Sikhs, Hindus, Christians, and Shi'ite Muslims. The TTP has intensified its insurgency against Islamabad since the Afghan Taliban, an ideological and organizational ally, seized power in Kabul in 2021. The TTP's growing attacks in Pakistan have fueled insecurity and bolstered other Islamist militant groups. "The conditions in Peshawar are worsening by the day," Sahib Singh, a Sikh elder, told RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal. "That has forced members of our community to move." Singh said many of the Sikhs who have left Khyber Pakhtunkhwa moved to the eastern province of Punjab, of which Lahore is the capital. Punjab, where most of Pakistan's estimated 60,000 Sikhs reside, is home to several sacred religious sites. Singh said Pakistani Sikhs have also fled to India and to the West. "Fear and anxiety have turned members of our community into nomads," Gorpal Singh, a Sikh activist based in Peshawar, told Radio Mashaal. "We are just moving from place to place." "We do not want money or jobs from the government," he added. "We just want an immediate end to the targeted killings of our community members and want the government to compensate us for the demolition of our houses."Pakistani leaders have promised to protect members of religious minorities from militants and Muslim mobs, which have carried out lynchings and destroyed places of worship. But minority communities say the authorities have not done enough. "There is no security for religious minorities in Pakistan," said Tony. Niala Mohammad, a former South Asia analyst at the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, said the rise of Muslim extremism in Pakistan has fueled discrimination against religious minorities. "Violent attacks, including targeted killings, abductions, extortion, forced conversions to Islam, and forced marriages pose major threats to the Sikh community in Pakistan," she said. "The growing intolerance for religious diversity has forced many Sikhs to migrate to other countries in search of safety and freedom to practice their faith without fear," added Mohammad, who is a director at the Muslim Public Affairs Council in Washington. Speaker of Milli Majlis Sahiba Gafarova, who is on a business visit to Ireland, met with the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Irish Parliament Sean Offergail, Azernews reports, citing Milli Majlis. Welcoming the Speaker of Milli Majlis, the Chairman of the House of Representatives of the Irish Parliament expressed satisfaction with the first visit of the Head of the Azerbaijani Parliament to Ireland. Sean Offergail noted that the Irish Parliament was working on establishing a friendship group with the Azerbaijani Parliament, and expressed confidence that it would contribute to further strengthening of inter-parliamentary ties. He noted that his country is interested in investing in foreign countries, and developing relations in the spheres of economy and tourism. He shared his opinion on Azerbaijan's leading role in the region and said that Azerbaijan is a reliable energy partner of Europe. The Irish Speaker emphasized the importance of mutual visits for further development of inter-parliamentary relations between the two countries and in other fields and talked about the existing opportunities in this sphere. Speaker Sahiba Gafarova expressed her gratitude for the hospitality shown to the Azerbaijani parliamentary delegation and noted that there is a good potential for further development of relations between the parliaments in education, culture, and humanitarian spheres. At the meeting, the Chairman of Milli Majlis gave detailed information about the situation in the South Caucasus, including Azerbaijan, especially in the Garabagh region. Sahiba Ghafarova reminded that by liberating its lands from the occupation of Armenia, Azerbaijan ensured the implementation of the UN Security Council resolutions and offered the other side a peace agreement based on 5 principles of international law. He noted with regret that Armenia has not signed that document for almost 3 years. The Milli Majlis Speaker also drew attention to the fact that Armenia continues political blackmail against Azerbaijan internationally with groundless statements such as "blockade" and "humanitarian crisis". According to the speaker, Armenia has not withdrawn its 10,000 soldiers from Karabakh during this period, provided them with financial support, arms, and ammunition, as well as supported the so-called regime in the Garabagh region of Azerbaijan. Sahiba Gafarova also drew attention to the fact that during the past period, Armenia has organized provocations on the border and continues to mine the territories of Azerbaijan. She said that, last week the number of these provocations increased even more. Thus, as a result of the explosion of mines planted by Armenian Armed groups for terrorist purposes, civilians and policemen were killed and wounded. All this forced Azerbaijan to launch the local anti-terrorist activities. Sahiba Gafarova said that the purpose of the activity was to prevent possible military provocations and terrorist acts by illegal Armenian armed formations in Garabagh, as well as to withdraw terrorist groups from the Garabagh economic region of Azerbaijan. The local anti-terrorist activities were also aimed at ensuring the safety of the civilian population, including civilian workers involved in reconstruction works in the area and military personnel, as well as the restoration of the constitutional order of the Republic of Azerbaijan. She emphasized that the civilian population and objects were not targeted during the anti-terrorist activities, and these measures were carried out in full compliance with international law, including international humanitarian law. Speaker Sahiba Ghafarova said that on 20 September, taking into account the request of the representatives of the Armenian residents of Garabagh, an agreement on a complete ceasefire was reached. According to this agreement, the units of the Armenian Armed Forces located in the Garabagh economic region of Azerbaijan should lay down their arms, leave their combat positions and military posts, and be completely disarmed. The Chairman said discussions are being held on the issues of integration of the Armenian population living in Garabagh into Azerbaijani society, and two meetings have already been held with representatives of the Armenian community of Garabagh. Humanitarian aid and foodstuffs were sent to Khankendi. Necessary conditions have been created so that Armenians wishing to go to Armenia could leave the region without obstacles and problems, and people wishing to live in Garabagh could stay there. Speaker Sahiba Ghafarova expressed hope that the peace agreement will finally be signed. Speaker Sahiba Ghafarova then signed the memorial book of the parliament. Afterward, a welcoming ceremony for the Speaker of the Milli Majlis Sahiba Gafarova was held in the halls of the House of Representatives and the Senate of the Republic of Ireland. A charity exhibition is held in Kuwait to raise funds for school-age refugees. The exhibition is organized by the UN refugee agency. In the summer of 2022, Wagner mercenary group head Yevgeny Prigozhin -- who was killed in a suspicious plane crash in August, exactly two months after leading a brief mutiny against Russian military authorities -- began recruiting convicts in Russian prisons to fight in Ukraine. Within weeks, he had sent tens of thousands of them into some of the bloodiest fighting of Moscow's invasion, particularly in the area around the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. Prisoners who survived six months on the front line were promised an amnesty from President Vladimir Putin and the opportunity to return to Russia. Olga Romanova, a journalist and activist who has headed the prisoner rights organization Russia Behind Bars (Rus Sidyashchaya) since 2008, tells RFE/RL that this exploitation of prisoners is a continuation of the "Stalinist mentality" that has continued to dominate the unreformed prison system under Putin. The role of prisons in enabling Moscow's aggression against Ukraine is one of the ways, Romanova argued, that the antiquated system suits Putin's political needs as it is, despite numerous revelations of horrific torture and prisoner abuse in recent years. Russia Behind Bars was designated a "foreign agent" organization by the Russian government in May 2020. Romanova spoke to RFE/RL's North.Realities from exile in Germany. The interview has been edited for length and clarity. RFE/RL: Over the last five years or so, there have been numerous scandals involving allegations of abuse and torture in Russian prisons. Guards and prison officials have even been convicted of abuse of authority. Why hasn't there been any systemic prison reform? Olga Romanova: In 2018 the first big scandal regarding torture broke in the Yaroslavl region. One of our collaborators published videos of torture. There was a scandal. Around that time, Federation Council [Russia's upper parliament chamber] head Valentina Matviyenko took the podium and made a very humane speech. She gave a brief summary of the concept of prison reform we had been advocating. We couldn't believe our ears: It was really starting! But then Putin gave a very, very harsh speech to the effect that our prison system is the best in the world, so don't dare touch it. Hands off! I was really surprised. Why? Wasn't it the right time for reform? It would be cheap and easy. Plus, he would be a hero. Then there were several more scandals. Putin's most recent comments on prisons came around the time that [Federal Penitentiary Service head Aleksandr] Kalashnikov was fired. But once again Putin said that nothing needed to be changed and that everything was perfectly fine. RFE/RL: Why would he oppose reform despite these horrific revelations? Romanova: That was November 2021, just three months before the invasion [of Ukraine]. I couldn't understand why he was clinging to this completely unbearable prison burden that was pulling down the whole country. I just couldn't understand. And then Prigozhin appeared, and I thought: Damn, that is brilliant -- in the bad sense of the word. He was an evil genius who tapped into a bottomless reservoir of mercenaries. Bottomless because Russian prisons are some of the most horrible places on Earth. People are so desperate to get out of there. they are ready to go to war simply to get out of prison. And that is what happened. It also had an enormous psychological effect. As long as Prigozhin was collecting prisoners to fight, they didn't need to touch our "civilian boys." Prigozhin began recruiting prisoners in June [2022] and they didn't implement mobilization until September after they were fully integrated with the Defense Ministry. Putin proceeded precisely along a Stalinist path by utilizing a surplus, unneeded population. [Prison reformers talk about] how to reform prisoners, how to teach them useful professions like painter or plasterer. But why? They can just be destroyed, and we're done with it. No rise in crime rates, just into the meat-grinder. No one cares about them. The 22,000 or 25,000 prisoners who were released by Prigozhin and sent back to Russia were never supposed to come back. They only returned because Wagner withdrew prematurely from Bakhmut. If Prigozhin hadn't quarreled with [Defense Minister Sergei] Shoigu, he would have continued fighting until he'd buried them all. No one anticipated that any of them would return. But the way in which Prigozhin took them from the prisons without any legal justification and the way Putin signed secret decrees on amnesty tells me that they came up with this plan long before they enacted it. Putin knew there was this reservoir that no one cared about; that's why he saw no need for prison reform. They would just be killed. And they would be glad to jump into the fight and get themselves killed rather than being raped by guards with a mop in prison. They don't do that at the front. RFE/RL: Does that mean that Putin was preparing for war from the beginning? After all, no one was preventing him from reforming the prisons during his first term as president. Romanova: That's true. Or during his second term. Or even in 2018. Matviyenko is not some schoolgirl, but an experienced politician and schemer. And she was proposing reforms. RFE/RL: If recruiting from the prisons was such a clear manifestation of disregard for human lives, why did the prisoners themselves accept it? Romanova: I have never once heard anything from a prisoner about wanting money. This is something that interests their families or normal mercenaries. At first, the main motivation for the prisoners was gaining their freedom and the opportunity to start over with a clean slate, amnesty, to take back 10 or 20 years of their lives. In short, to get their lives back. It is a game of Russian roulette with the highest stakes. These guys have never in their lives heard that someone needs them. And they are ready to give their lives to hear it once. But maybe the main motivation -- and I have heard this hundreds of times and there is no response to it -- is: "They need me there." They say something like: "I sit here for two more years and then what? I have no home and won't be able to get one. I have no family. I have no job and won't be able to get one. Within a year, I'll either drink myself to death or overdose on heroin. Or else I'll be back in prison, and I don't want to start that circle over again. No one on the outside needs me." There is no probation. No reintegration program. Russia has never had them. Former prisoners simply have no place. Period. And the recruiters know this. They create a false sense of family, of military fraternity, camaraderie. These guys have never in their lives heard that someone needs them. And they are ready to give their lives to hear it once. RFE/RL: Is the influx of people convicted on politically based charges affecting the situation inside the prisons? Romanova: That is unclear. Very few of them have reached the remote prisons so far, since investigations and trials usually take more than a year. But, in general, the attitude toward political prisoners is changing, I would say, for the better. Before 2014, criminal prisoners viewed political prisoners quite positively and didn't touch them. But in 2014, the so-called Russian Spring stuff started and it reached the prisoners and, more importantly, the guards. As a result, the treatment of Ukrainians and political prisoners got really bad. It was accepted that they were blocking the advent of this cherished "Russian world." When the invasion came, it became clear that this was all nonsense. Prison bosses lost their sources of income as prisoners were taken off to the war. Some bald-headed guy [Prigozhin] would come and take the prisoners without even needing any paperwork signed. Of course, Prigozhin himself was a former prisoner, so he hated prison authorities and was happy to humiliate them. He would take over their offices and insult them in front of the prisoners. So you can see that prison authorities began paying more attention to political prisoners who opposed all that. They had a sudden confluence of interests. There are, of course, special cases, but I would say they are the exceptions. RFE/RL: What do you think the prospects for prison reform in Russia are now? Romanova: Absolutely zero. It is clear prison reform requires political will, and that is not going to happen. The Russian prison system is decrepit. It was last reformed in 1953, when Lavrenty Beria transferred control of the prisons from the NKVD [secret police] to the Justice Ministry. Now, the Federal Penitentiary Service (FSIN) is formally part of the Justice Ministry, but over the last 15 years all the FSIN directors have either been police or Federal Security Service veterans. There hasn't been a professional FSIN director since 2009. The old, Stalinist mentality has been preserved, so the main focus of the prison system is not correctional services -- psychiatrists, doctors, teachers, etc. -- but rather operational tasks like working prisoners over or recruiting them for things like giving false statements or committing perjury in court. Hence, the torture. The system that was created in the 1930shas survived to this day. Translated by RFE/RL's Robert Coalson WARSAW, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Polish utility Polskie Elektrownie Jadrowe (PEJ) on Wednesday signed an agreement with Westinghouse and Bechtel, leaders of the U.S. nuclear power sector, for the design of Poland's first nuclear power plant. Under the 18-month contract, hundreds of reports and studies will be generated, including the design of supply chains and the preparation of documentation required to obtain a building permit for the 3,750 megawatt (MWe) plant. Poland's Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, who attended the signing ceremony, hailed the "historic" deal, which "marks the start of a new energy era" in the country. "By developing nuclear energy, we secure the stability of our energy system and base it on ecological energy sources, reducing our dependence on oil and gas imports," he said. In December 2021, the 100 percent state treasury-owned PEJ designated the site of the plant near Lubiatowo-Kopalino in the coastal province of Pomerania. Construction is planned to start in 2026 and the first reactor is scheduled to be operational in 2033. The estimated cost of the investment is over PLN 100 billion (22.74 billion U.S. dollars). Photo Angry Demonstrators Clash with Security Forces, Leading to Injuries and Arson Amidst Ongoing Unrest IMPHAL: Unrest and violent protests gripped Manipur as aggrieved citizens voiced their outrage over the recent deaths of two students. The agitation escalated on Thursday morning, with a furious mob wreaking havoc by vandalizing the Deputy Commissioner's (DC) office in Imphal West and setting ablaze two vehicles, as confirmed by officials. The protests, initially ignited by the circulation of disturbing images of two missing students from July, have escalated into a volatile situation. Reports from the ground indicated confrontations between the protesters and security forces in various areas, including Uripok, Yaiskul, Sagolband, and Tera, prompting the deployment of tear gas shells to regain control. Demonstrators resorted to road blockades, burning tires to obstruct security forces from entering residential zones. The mob's fury culminated in the vandalization of the Deputy Commissioner's office and the torching of vehicles. Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel intervened to bring the situation under control. Advertisement In response to the escalating unrest, curfew has been reimposed in Imphal East and Imphal West districts to quell the violent protests. Since Tuesday, 65 protesters have sustained injuries during these demonstrations. Meanwhile, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) office was set ablaze in Khongjom, Thoubal district, according to Manipur Police. The mob also targeted a police vehicle, set it ablaze, and assaulted a policeman, seizing his weapon. Authorities have vowed stern action against those involved in such criminal acts and initiated search operations to recover stolen weapons and apprehend the culprits. The Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights has urged security forces to exercise restraint and avoid using excessive force on teenagers during the unrest. Notably, The State has been grappling with caste-based violence, sparked by a tribal unity march on May 3 in the hill districts, opposing the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Tragically, the violence has claimed over 180 lives and left hundreds injured. CM Mann On the 116th birth anniversary of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, CM Mann honors the revolutionary freedom fighter's undying influence NAWANSHAHR: Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann led a commemorative event at Khatkar Kalan, paying homage to the indomitable spirit of Shaheed Bhagat Singh on the occasion of his 116th birth anniversary. Mann highlighted the perpetual impact of the iconic revolutionary and emphasized the enduring resonance of Bhagat Singh's ideals in contemporary society. The Chief Minister vowed to integrate the rich heritage of Punjab's historical figures into the educational curriculum, ensuring that the sacrifices of the nation's forefathers are never forgotten. Expressing admiration for Bhagat Singh's unwavering determination during the freedom struggle, Mann drew a poignant contrast to contemporary aspirations, remarking, "At an age when our youth seek motorcycles, Bhagat Singh sought independence from British rule, underscoring a fundamental shift in ideologies." Advertisement Addressing those who questioned Bhagat Singh's martyrdom, Mann firmly reiterated the immensity of Bhagat Singh's sacrifice and his timeless influence on the nation. He refrained from criticism, choosing instead to focus on the transformative changes his administration has initiated in recent years. The Chief Minister highlighted the government's efforts to provide employment opportunities, subsidize electricity costs, enhance educational institutions, and modernize healthcare facilities, positively impacting the lives of Punjab's citizens. Reaffirming his dedication to the welfare of Punjab and its people, Mann promised an equitable and prosperous future. He pledged, "As the chosen caretaker of a family comprising three and a half million members, I assure that none shall suffer hunger, oppression, or injustice. We are resolute in our pursuit to elevate Punjab to the pinnacle of progress and prosperity." Sukhpal Singh Khaira Arrest Made at Chandigarh Residence, MLA to be Presented in Jalalabad Court Soon JALALABAD: Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira was apprehended from his residence in Chandigarh's Sector 5, marking a significant development as he faces charges under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The arrest was executed by a Punjab Police team, arriving at Khaira's residence at 5 am, amid notable discussions. After a heated exchange, Sukhpal Singh Khaira was taken into custody. A video capturing the event has circulated, and the Punjab Police is set to present Khaira in the court today. Authorities in Jalalabad have cited an old NDPS case against the Congress MLA as the grounds for his arrest. Khaira will soon be produced in the Jalalabad court to face legal proceedings related to this case. Advertisement The Arrest follows an ongoing investigation into an older drug case dating back to 2015, where Sukhpal Khaira has been implicated. The Current arrest is based on a report from the Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by the Deputy Inspector General (DIG), with involvement from two Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs). While Khaira vehemently contests the charges, asserting their falsehood, he has previously obtained relief from the Supreme Court concerning this matter. For Representative Purpose Only Judge denies protection request, deeming it an attempt to conceal an alleged extramarital relationship through legal means CHANDIGARH: In a recent legal development, a 49-year-old divorced woman and a 33-year-old married man sought protection for their lives and property through a joint petition filed in the Punjab and Haryana High Court. Justice Alok Jain, presiding over the case, dismissed the petition, citing an abuse of the legal process to conceal what was believed to be an illicit relationship between the two petitioners. Justice Jain emphasized that the demand for protection could not be entertained in light of the circumstances surrounding the case. He stated that the wife of the male petitioner was, in fact, the victim in this situation, and imposed a fine of Rs. 25,000 upon the petitioners. Additionally, he directed that this fine be deposited into a fixed deposit (FD) in the name of the petitioner's child. Advertisement The Petitioners, residents of Malerkotla, expressed concerns about their safety and claimed that their lives were at risk. The woman, in her plea, asserted that the wife of the male petitioner had visited her residence and leveled false accusations against her. Allegedly, the wife had also issued severe threats. The petitioners urged the court to intervene and ensure their safety and protection of their assets. However, Justice Jain firmly held that the petition was an effort to misuse the legal system to conceal an alleged extramarital relationship. Consequently, the court rejected the protection plea and imposed the specified penalty. TIANJIN, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Airbus on Thursday broke ground on its second final assembly line in China as the European aircraft manufacturer seeks expansion in the Chinese market. The groundbreaking in north China's Tianjin Municipality marks another milestone after Airbus signed an agreement on the project with Tianjin Free Trade Zone Investment Company Ltd. and Aviation Industry Corporation of China, Ltd. in April 2023. The expansion project is planned to enter into service at the end of 2025, Airbus said in a statement. It will be able to manufacture both A320 and A321neo aircraft, the newest single-aisle aircraft of Airbus, to meet surging demand. The second final assembly line (FAL) at Airbus' Tianjin site is part of Airbus' overall production expansion plan for the A320 family. It aims to produce 75 aircraft per month in 2026, facilitated by the operation of ten global FALs, which include two in Tianjin, two in Toulouse, France, two in Mobile, United States, and four in Hamburg, Germany, according to the statement. The expansion project showcases Airbus' long-term commitment to the Chinese aviation industry. This is a powerful vote of confidence in the future of aviation here in China, Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury said via video link, adding that it also underlines Airbus' long, trustful and successful relationship with partners in China. The domestic and international traffic in China, home to some of the world's leading airlines, is set for rapid and long-term growth, Faury added. "This year marks the 15th anniversary of the inauguration of Tianjin FAL, with over 630 single-aisle aircraft assembled and delivered. This means roughly 30 percent of the Airbus planes flying in China have been assembled here," said George Xu, Airbus executive vice president (EVP) and Airbus China CEO. Airbus Final Assembly Line Asia in Tianjin, inaugurated in September 2008, is its first final assembly line located outside Europe. The expansion project demonstrates that Airbus is continuing to invest in its facilities in Tianjin to better serve the Chinese market through its global production system, Xu said. "For 15 years our Final Assembly Line in Tianjin has been key to our global industrial strategy to assemble aircraft close to our customers and to partner with China's aviation sector for a thriving industry," said Julie Kitcher, Airbus EVP Communications and Corporate Affairs. As a major Sino-European strategic cooperation project, the Airbus Tianjin project is setting up an important platform for bilateral pragmatic cooperation, joint development and mutually beneficial outcomes in the aviation sector, said Hao Zhaoping, president of Aviation Industry Corporation of China, Ltd. It will also play an important role in stabilizing the global aviation industrial chain and boosting the recovery of the global aviation market, Hao said. Li Chunlin, deputy head of the National Development and Reform Commission, said the commission will support Airbus in working with Chinese partners to expand cooperation in the future while giving full play to their respective strengths. "The COVID pandemic is now behind us. The future of aviation is bright. And we are writing a new chapter of it here in Tianjin," Faury said. Governor Punjab Governor will interact with local panchayats & engage with communities residing in these regions CHANDIGARH: Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit is set to undertake his fifth visit to the border districts of the state, beginning on October 4. During this three-day visit, he will tour the border villages of Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Ferozepur, and Fazilka, engaging with local panchayats and interacting with residents. Notably, the Governor has chosen not to utilize the Punjab government's helicopter for transportation during this visit. Initially scheduled from September 20 to 22, the visit had to be postponed due to the arrival of Home Minister Amit Shah on September 26 and the Northern Regional Council meeting. The revised itinerary includes interactions in Pathankot and Gurdaspur on the first day, followed by visits to Amritsar and Tarn Taran on the second day, and concluding with engagements in Ferozepur and Fazilka on the third day. Advertisement The decision to abstain from using the state government's helicopter stems from the ongoing discord between Governor Purohit and Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Governor Purohit had previously asked the Chief Minister to account for Rs 50,000 crore, contributing to the strained relations between the two. Chief Minister Mann had criticized the Governor's use of the Punjab government's helicopter in July, prompting Governor Purohit to announce his decision to refrain from utilizing it in the future. American soldier Travis T. King, who was released from North Korean custody after multi-week diplomatic efforts, has arrived back in the United States, U.S. media reported. Media outlets published pictures from video of the US Army Private disembarking from a US military plane at Kelly Field at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, Texas, at around 1:30 a.m. ET, Thursday. North Korean state media KCNA reported on Wednesday that the Kim Jong Un regime had decided "to expel" King, who was arrested after illegally crossing into North Korea from South Korea in July. King, a cavalry scout stationed in South Korea, crossed into North Korean territory on July 18 after joining a tour group of the Joint Security Area at the Demilitarized Zone in Panmunjom. North Korea handed over King to U.S. Ambassador Nicholas Burns and Brigadier General Patrick Teague in China on Wednesday, from where he was flown to the US military base in Texas. Travis King's return home culminates weeks-long effort across multiple U.S. government agencies. "We are grateful to the Swedish government for its diplomatic role in serving as the protecting power for the United States in the DPRK and to the government of the People's Republic of China for its assistance in facilitating the safe transit of Private King," senior administration officials said at a news conference. For the last many weeks, the U.S. government has been reaching out to North Korea through multiple channels to ascertain his welfare and to try to secure his safe return home. That includes outreach at the United Nations and through Washington's United Nations Command. The official said China helped to facilitate the transfer but did not mediate by any means. "The Swedish played an important role. They have been our primary interlocutor in helping us get Private King out," he told reporters. National Security Council officials, who announced King's release as he was being transferred from China to a U.S. base, said, "King appears to be in good and good spirits as he makes his way home". The soldier would receive a full evaluation to address any medical or emotional concerns before being reunited with his family, according to the officials. They made it clear that the U.S. made no concessions to North Korea to secure King's release. The Pentagon said that before crossing the border, King had faced disciplinary action while stationed in South Korea and had served time in a correctional facility. At the time of his crossing, he was scheduled to fly to the U.S. to face additional administrative action by the U.S. Army. Officials said King's administrative status would be addressed following his successful reintegration. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Faculty of Law LLM Candidate, Tafadzwa Mavindidze. Photo cred: Vusumzi Tshekema. By Tanya Sylvia Mugwagwa Rhodes University Faculty of Law LLM Candidate, Tafadzwa Mavindidze, has been announced as the first-place recipient of the prestigious South African Law Reform Legal Essay Competition (SALRC) prize for 2023. She will attend the annual prize-giving ceremony at the Sun Hotel in Pretoria this week. The prestigious SALRC essay competition forms part of the Commissions initiative to engage young legal minds in generating innovative ideas on law reform issues. The competition, which is currently dedicated to the memory of the late Chief Justice Pius Nkonzo Langa, honours a range of legal achievers committed to advancing constitutional democracy in South Africa. I initially heard about the competition through my supervisor, who insisted on me submitting an essay for consideration on three separate occasions. Eventually, despite my hesitation, her encouragement gave me the courage to enter the competition and submit an essay that engaged my current research and illustrated why I felt it was an area of law that required reformation and transformation, said Mavindidze. She further shared that her award-winning essay, titled The Inadequately Married: Developing the Putative Marriage Doctrine to assist vulnerable parties in invalid customary marriages, was inspired by her thesis research. The focus of my research is the protection of traditionally married women, who find themselves in unfavourable circumstances due to non-compliance with certain customary and legislative requirements that render their marriages invalid, she expressed, The goal of my research is the reformation and development of the putative marriage doctrine to extend its protection to these women and their rights to property. In relaying her excitement for her recent accomplishment, Mavindidze shared that winning the competition made her feel reaffirmed and encouraged in relation to the effort and work shes poured into her research. Sometimes the research journey can be quite tiring, and it can be easy to start questioning yourself and your capabilities. However, I feel like this award is just Gods way of reminding me and reaffirming that this is exactly where I am meant to be and that I am meeting my purpose in my writing and the research I am pursuing, she reflected. She further expressed her gratitude to the SALRC stating: I would like to thank the Commission for the recognition, firstly just by looking at my research and secondly by gracing me with the amazing honour of receiving this award. I want to thank my amazing supervisor, Associate Professor Helen Kruuse, for always being so intentional about my development as an academic, always exposing me to various opportunities and just wanting the best for me. I am very grateful for the supervisor I have had and all the work she has put into making the process as amazing as possible. Professor Kruuse congratulated Mavindidze and said: I am thrilled that Tafadzwa's work has been recognised and rewarded by the South African Law Reform Commission. While one may laud her for championing gender equality and the protection of vulnerable parties, the power of her research lies in her ability to find innovative and creative solutions through comparative work. This prize is thoroughly deserved, and I look forward to seeing Tafadzwa's research influence legal reform in South Africa. Chinese policemen and local police officers carry out a joint patrol mission on the street of Belgrade, Serbia, Sept. 28, 2023. Chinese policemen started their second month-long joint patrol mission with local police officers in Serbia's major cities on Thursday. (Photo by Wang Wei/Xinhua) BELGRADE, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Chinese policemen started their second month-long joint patrol mission with local police officers in Serbia's major cities on Thursday. The mission's launch in the center of Belgrade was attended by Zeljko Brkic, state secretary of Serbia's Ministry of Internal Affairs, and Zhang Zhe, charge d'affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Serbia. Nine Chinese policemen will accompany 20 Serbian officers in Belgrade, Novi Sad and Smederevo, cities frequented by Chinese tourists. The joint police patrols are based on a memorandum concluded in 2019, and six Chinese police officers joined their Serbian colleagues in the same three cities in that year. Police officers from China also participate in joint patrols with their colleagues in Croatia, the government's press release said. Zeljko Brkic (L, front), state secretary of Serbia's Ministry of Internal Affairs, salutes to Chinese policemen during the launch ceremony of a joint patrol mission of Chinese policemen and local police officers in Belgrade, Serbia, Sept. 28, 2023. Chinese policemen started their second month-long joint patrol mission with local police officers in Serbia's major cities on Thursday. (Photo by Wang Wei/Xinhua) Zhang Zhe (R, front), charge d'affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Serbia, and Zeljko Brkic (L, front), state secretary of Serbia's Ministry of Internal Affairs, attend the launch ceremony of a joint patrol mission of Chinese policemen and local police officers in Belgrade, Serbia, Sept. 28, 2023. Chinese policemen started their second month-long joint patrol mission with local police officers in Serbia's major cities on Thursday. (Photo by Wang Wei/Xinhua) Zeljko Brkic (L, front), state secretary of Serbia's Ministry of Internal Affairs, shakes hands with a Chinese policewoman during the launch ceremony of a joint patrol mission of Chinese policemen and local police officers in Belgrade, Serbia, Sept. 28, 2023. Chinese policemen started their second month-long joint patrol mission with local police officers in Serbia's major cities on Thursday. (Photo by Wang Wei/Xinhua) SACRAMENTO, the United States, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- From Los Angeles to New York City, public schools in big U.S. cities are reporting declining enrollment, a trend that school districts said is worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic and expected to continue in the coming years. The Los Angeles Unified School District, the second largest in the country, lost about 100,000 students for the 2022-23 school year compared with the 2015-16 school year, a drop of more than 15 percent, according to the LA School Report this month. In New York City, which has the country's largest student population, public schools have lost more than 100,000 students since the pandemic hit. For this school year, more than 320 schools in the city are expected to see at least 5 percent fewer students, according to the city's education department. The sharp decline has forced some school districts to consider downsizing or closing schools. The Fort Worth Independent School District in Texas held a meeting on Tuesday night to discuss the possibility of "rightsizing" the schools' capacity amid enrollment declines. Fort Worth is one of the fastest-growing big cities in the country, but the district's student population has dropped steadily from 87,233 in 2016 to 72,783 this school year, a loss of 14,450 students, according to the district's document. The district listed three factors to explain the decline: demographic trends, a lack of affordable housing for young families, and the increasing number of charter schools that have lured students away. In Oregon, the Salem-Keizer School District told local media KATU early this month that it had 2,300 fewer students than the pre-pandemic level. The district continued to enroll around 400 fewer students per year, including in 2023-24. The declining enrollment reflects a national issue - in nearly every state, public schools are projected to have fewer students by the end of the decade. This fall, the total public-school enrollment in the United States is projected to be 49.7 million, and that number is expected to fall by nearly 2.5 million, or 5 percent, by 2030, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics. Public schools' enrollment took a big hit nationwide during the pandemic. Nearly 1.2 million students left public schools in the 2020-2021 school year, with the biggest declines among kindergarten students, according to data from Return to Learn Tracker. Most public schools offered only remote instruction during the pandemic, which many parents were dissatisfied with and may have had a negative impact on enrollment. Schools offering remote-only instead of in-person instruction had a 42 percent greater decline in enrollment, according to a recent study by Thomas Dee, a professor at Stanford's Graduate School of Education, who has studied enrollment during the pandemic. Research showed that parents' interest in alternatives to public schools, such as home schooling and private schools, had increased. Big-city school districts also blamed the high living costs for the exodus of students. Los Angeles school district and New York City's education department share similar views that the decline was partly due to a drop in students entering school during the pandemic, and a surge in families relocating to more affordable destinations. Big-city districts are worried about major financial consequences, as state funding for school districts is typically tied to enrollment, and fewer students means less money. In the long run, they are afraid of school closures or mergers. To boost enrollment, some school districts have come up with various strategies, such as admitting four-year-olds, launching marketing campaigns, hosting back-to-school fairs, and conducting door-to-door visits. But Dee, in his analysis, reminded of the role of demographic changes in declining enrollment. "The population of school-age children in the United States, those 5 to 17 years old, actually fell by over a quarter million" during the pandemic, he said, suggesting that "some of the enrollment loss during the pandemic simply reflects declining birth and immigration rates rather than an active choice not to attend public schools." Written By Managing Editor she/her | Bridget is the Messengers managing editor. She oversees the newsroom and covers the Maple Run Unified School District and education at large. She also pays attention to recreation, food and the arts and is an avid cyclist and skier. | Food & Drink Incoming: Gillys House of Cocktails The brains behind some of San Diegos top cocktail bars usher in a new era of a North Park institution Read article People visit Disasters Expo USA at the Anaheim Convention Center in Orange County, California, the United States, on Sept. 27, 2023. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua) Different regions in the United States are susceptible to varied types and frequencies of disasters, with the West Coast specifically suffering from wildfires due to extended periods of drought and high heat. LOS ANGELES, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Disasters Expo USA was kicked off Wednesday in Southern California, focusing on the leading preparation, management, and recovery solutions for natural disasters. The two-day expo is held at the Anaheim Convention Center in Orange County of Southern California amid the U.S. National Preparedness Month, which falls on September. People visit Disasters Expo USA at the Anaheim Convention Center in Orange County, California, the United States, on Sept. 27, 2023. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua) The expo draws a variety of leading disaster management and response professionals, showcasing the latest tools, strategies, and insights to enhance protection for communities around the world from natural disasters. Different regions in the United States are susceptible to varied types and frequencies of disasters, with the West Coast specifically suffering from wildfires due to extended periods of drought and high heat. People visit Disasters Expo USA at the Anaheim Convention Center in Orange County, California, the United States, on Sept. 27, 2023. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua) The expo offered opportunities to better prepare for hazards and improve preparedness, response, mitigation, and recovery, said the organizer. September is the U.S. National Preparedness Month set up by the government as a one-of-a-kind campaign to enforce the importance for all citizens to be prepared for disasters and emergencies. KIGALI, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Officials of the East African Community (EAC), a regional bloc, announced Wednesday that they are exploring new strategies to address infectious and non-communicable diseases, as the COVID-19 pandemic has revealed a gap in the health sector within member countries. They were speaking at the opening ceremony of the 9th East African Health and Scientific Conference (EAHSC) themed "Challenges and Strategies to Preparedness and Response to Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases: Lessons Learnt from the COVID-19 Pandemic" in the Rwandan capital of Kigali. "The 9th EAHSC aims to take advantage of lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic in order to come up with strategic interventions to address communicable and non-communicable diseases," said Andrea Aguer Ariik Malueth, EAC deputy secretary general for infrastructure, productive, social and political sectors. He added that research carried out in the EAC region with lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and challenges encountered will be shared during the conference and followed by constructive expert discussions. "It is my hope that the implementation of research findings and recommendations from this conference will go a long way in enhancing the achievement of universal health coverage in the region." Speaking at the event, Sabin Nsanzimana, Rwandan minister of health, urged the EAC partner countries not to focus only on the challenges posed by the pandemic, but also on the opportunities it presents, such as strengthening scientific research capacity through investments in domestic clinical research initiatives. "Lessons learned from the pandemic have taught us that we cannot afford to be complacent. We must be prepared to respond swiftly and effectively to both existing and emerging health threats," he added. The conference, which runs through Friday, will also explore strategies to address the social, economic, and political impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and utilize digital technologies for preparedness and response to communicable and non-communicable diseases. The conference attracted government officials, health experts, members of civil society, and the private sector, among others, from the EAC partner countries and beyond. Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic addresses a signing ceremony between the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CBRC) and Croatian Roads in Split, Croatia, Sept. 27, 2023. A deal to build a 6.85-kilometer section of road was signed here by CBRC and Croatian Roads at a ceremony on Wednesday. The contract to construct the road section, between Vucevica junction on the A1 motorway and a junction on DC8 road in Split, is worth 74.6 million euros (78.37 million U.S. dollars). It also includes a 2.5 kilometer-long tunnel. (Xinhua/Li Xuejun) SPLIT, Croatia, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- A deal to build a 6.85-kilometer section of road was signed here by the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CBRC) and Croatian Roads at a ceremony on Wednesday. The contract to construct the road section, between Vucevica junction on the A1 motorway and a junction on DC8 road in Split, is worth 74.6 million euros (78.37 million U.S. dollars). It also includes a 2.5 kilometer-long tunnel. At the signing ceremony, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic said the road project is "strategically important" for the country's second-largest city. It is also important for Croatian tourism, he added. "Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, CRBC has proved to be great and effective, and I am happy that this trust is again on the table," he said, adding that the road project is an example of quality cooperation between Croatia and China. Meanwhile, Croatia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure Oleg Butkovic said CRBC has already proved itself with the construction of the Peljesac Bridge, inaugurated in July last year. The bridge was also welcomed by the Croatian government as strategically significant. "We are happy that we have got a serious and renowned contractor," Butkovic added. Chinese Ambassador to Croatia Qi Qianjin said the road project should add new impetus to the China-Croatia cooperation. "Today, with the successful signing of the Split road project, I believe it will become a new highlight in China-Croatia and China-EU cooperation," Qi added. CRBC's Central and Eastern Europe General Manager Yang Dong said: "Just like we did in the construction of the Peljesac Bridge, we will also demonstrate our professionalism and responsibility in this project. We are very much looking forward to working with the community in Split and the surrounding areas." The Vucevica road project has a time limit of three years, and construction is expected to start early next year. (1 euro = 1.05 U.S. dollars) Paleontologists have unearthed the fossilized remains of a new species of the mekosuchine crocodilian genus Baru in the Alcoota Scientific Reserve, about 110 km northwest of Alice Springs in the Australias Northern Territory. The newly-described crocodilian species lived during the Miocene epoch, approximately 8 million years ago. The ancient reptile belongs to Baru, a genus that now includes three large crocodilian species from the Oligo-Miocene of Australia. Named Baru iylwenpeny, the new species is the geologically youngest known member of the genus. The unveiling of Baru iylwenpeny marks a milestone in our understanding of Australias prehistoric fauna, said Dr. Adam Yates, senior curator for earth sciences at the Megafauna Central, Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory. The first bones of Baru iylwenpeny surfaced during the inaugural scientific excavations at Alcoota in the early 1960s by Michael Woodburne, providing us with tantalising glimpses of its existence. However, it wasnt until our recent dedicated efforts that we truly grasped its distinctiveness. The moment we found the complete skull was truly exhilarating. It was like uncovering a missing puzzle piece that allowed us to finally understand the entirety of Baru iylwenpenys morphology and significance. Australia was home to a remarkably diverse group of crocodilians called mekosuchines, of which the newly described species Baru iylwenpeny is a part of, added University of Queenslands Dr. Jorgo Ristevski. Although all mekosuchines are now extinct, their fossil remains are a testament to their abundance and importance in Australian ecosystems for tens of millions of years. Some mekosuchines, such as Baru iylwenpeny, were the top predators in their respective environments. Baru iylwenpeny was a formidable creature, boasting a skull length of up to 50 cm and an estimated body length of 4 m, roughly equivalent to a large saltwater crocodile. What sets it apart are its muscular build and thicker bones compared to a crocodile of similar length, making it a weightier specimen. Characterized by deep jaws and sizeable teeth, it likely specialized in hunting megafauna. Species of Baru probably represent some of the most fearsome predators to have inhabited Australia over the last 10 million years, said University of Queenslands Dr. Steve Salisbury. Baru iylwenpeny is the geologically youngest of the three species that are known, the others being Baru darrowi and Baru wickeni. Its also the best-represented, with multiple skulls from juveniles through to fully mature adults having been recovered. We pretty much know exactly what it looked like. Imagine a 4-5-m-long Indo-Pacific crocodile, but with a shorter, deeper snout and very large, backward pointing teeth, and a generally heavier, gnarly-looking head. Thats Baru! Its no wonder theyve become known as cleaver-headed crocodiles. Its terrifying to think that animals such as Baru iylwenpeny once inhabited the water courses of Central Australia. Their disappearance around 8 million years ago heralds the start of a period of global cooling, coinciding with an intense pulse of drying of the Australian interior. Ultimately, this drying led to the disappearance of many of the waterways that these crocodiles once inhabited. A new crocodilian fauna would emerge millions of years later in what is now the Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre basin. A similar turnover of crocodilian diversity is seen in Africa and South America, possibly in response to similar events there. The discovery of Baru iylwenpeny is described in a paper in the journal Papers in Palaeontology. _____ Adam M. Yates et al. 2023. The last Baru (Crocodylia, Mekosuchinae): a new species of cleaver-headed crocodile from central Australia and the turnover of crocodylians during the Late Miocene in Australia. Papers in Palaeontology 9 (5): e1523; doi: 10.1002/spp2.1523 BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- China is ready to continue its work with cooperation partners including the United States to enhance cooperation on the conservation of endangered species, a foreign ministry spokesperson said Thursday. According to reports, the three giant pandas from Washington DC's National Zoo are set to return to China by December. Three other U.S. zoos that have Chinese pandas in Atlanta, San Diego and Memphis have either turned over the pandas or will see them return to China by the end of next year. At a daily press briefing, spokesperson Mao Ning said that the United States is one of China's earliest partners and has more institutions than any other country that participates in the cooperation. A total of four U.S. zoos have participated in the cooperation. "The two sides have formed good cooperative relations, achieved fruitful results, and played a positive role in protecting endangered species," Mao said, noting that with concerted efforts of the two countries, a total of 17 cubs were successfully bred. At present, seven of these giant pandas still live in the United States. They have been creating joy for the American people and bringing hearts closer between the two peoples, said the spokesperson. "We have learned from relevant authorities that the three giant pandas at the National Zoo in Washington -- Mei Xiang, Tian Tian, and Xiao Qi Ji -- will return to China at the end of this year as previously scheduled. The Chinese and U.S. cooperation participants are in consultation over relevant procedures to prepare for their return," she added. Mao stated that giant pandas are not only China's national treasure but also ambassadors of friendship adored by people around the world. "China engages in giant panda conservation and research cooperation with many countries. The purpose is to better protect endangered species and promote global biodiversity conservation," Mao said. "We stand ready to continue our work with cooperation partners including the U.S. side to enhance cooperation on the conservation of endangered species," she added. MEXICO CITY, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Wednesday said the U.S. presidential race has devolved into a contest among candidates trying to outdo each other in "atrocities." During a daily press conference at the National Palace in Mexico City, Lopez Obrador said: "As the elections loom in the United States, there is a kind of contest to see who says the most atrocities, who is the most brazen in threatening Mexico, in blaming Mexico ... that is what is happening in the United States." The president chalked it up to electioneering and called on the Hispanic community to disregard the rhetoric. "So what should we do? Well, not take these statements seriously, they are nonsense," he said. Lopez Obrador urged Mexicans residing in the United States to not vote for candidates who speak ill of migrants or support anti-immigrant policies. More than 40 million Mexicans live in the United States, according to the president. Data from Pew Research Center showed that Mexicans are the largest population of Hispanic origin living in America, accounting for 60 percent of the U.S. Hispanic population in 2021. For Isabelle Alamilla, 25, being involved in student government is a passion that runs deep, one that began in earnest as a high schooler in Utah and continued as an undergrad at Seattle University. Her foray into student government at SU began her freshman year when Alamilla served as a senator. From there she remained active in student politics, ultimately deciding to run for Student Body President. Fast forward to today and Alamilla is ready to embark on her first full year in the role. The reason I got involved in student government is that I love giving back to my community, says Alamilla, who is a double major in business management and business analytics. It teaches me how to deal with complex issues and conflict resolution and is really great for professional development. Its also the people in student government. They push me to give 100%. If I let one student down, Im letting everyone down. Operating under a shared approach to governance as president, Alamilla is ready to tackle several areas that directly impact students. This past year, there have been a lot changes, whether it is the tuition increase, wage disparities for faculty and changes in programs and students felt cut out of the conversation (around these issues.) They felt blindsided, she says. Part of what I want to accomplish is to have more effective feedback and collaboration between students and the administration. If students are experiencing something on the ground level, I want to be the first to hear about it. She encourages students who want their voices to be heard or want to learn more about student governmentincluding running for officeto reach out. I am really excited for this coming year. Read more about Isabelle, including her favorite eateries and hangout spots in Seattle, in the fall edition of Seattle University Magazine out in November. An Affordable Housing Program grant from Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis allowed Dogwood Community Development to complete Shelby Trails apartments. Kittie Tuinstra outside of the new Shelby Trails Apartments. Residents Kevin and Charlie Nickleson with Kittie Tuinstra. Resident Teresa Brant, her dog, Jack, and Kittie Tuinstra catch up in the hallway at Shelby Trails Apartments. A variety of community-oriented services in Michigan FHLBank Indianapolis isnt a bank in the traditional sense. People on the street will never see a single FHLBank branch or ATM. Simply put, it is a bank for banks, credit unions, community development financial institutions, and insurers. In fact, FHLBank Indianapolis has more than 300 member financial institutions. FHLBank Indianapolis isnt a bank in the traditional sense. People on the street will never see a single FHLBank branch or ATM. Simply put, it is a bank for banks, credit unions, community development financial institutions, and insurers. In fact, FHLBank Indianapolis has more than 300 member financial institutions. Although the Bank is headquartered in Indiana, its district includes both Indiana and Michigan. Dont let the name fool you, says Anna Shires, FHLBank Vice President and Community Investment Outreach Partner. We actually have more member financial institutions in Michigan than Indiana. Cities across the region benefit from partnerships between the FHLBank and various community-based financial institutions and philanthropic organizations. Kittie Tuinstra shows off an apartment interior. Another big goal, as seen with the Shelby Trails project, is supporting affordable housing. Each year, FHLBank awards special grants of up to $600,000 through its AHP program to facilitate affordable housing and rental projects. Since 1990, the program has awarded more than $283 million to create or rehabilitate single- and multi-family housing in Indiana and Michigan. Last year alone, FHLBank Indianapolis awarded more than $3 million to seven Michigan affordable housing projects through AHP, including $500,000 to both Walter French Apartments in Lansing and Hartford Terrace Apartments in Muskegon. FHLBank Indianapolis also makes at-cost advances for qualifying economic or community investment purposes. A good example of this would be its Community Investment Program, which offered a special low-interest loan through a member institution to help fund the development of Rivertown Market , a neighborhood-style grocery operated by the Meijer's chain that opened in Detroit in 2021.Another big goal, as seen with the Shelby Trails project, is supporting affordable housing. Each year, FHLBank awards special grants of up to $600,000 through its AHP program to facilitate affordable housing and rental projects. Since 1990, the program has awarded more than $283 million to create or rehabilitate single- and multi-family housing in Indiana and Michigan. Last year alone, FHLBank Indianapolis awarded more than $3 million to seven Michigan affordable housing projects through AHP, including $500,000 to both Walter French Apartments in Lansing and Hartford Terrace Apartments in Muskegon. FHLBank Indianapolis also has a program called the Neighborhood Impact Program which focuses on home repairs. The program is designed to help qualified homeowners pay for deferred maintenance repairs. One of the most common areas homeowners use the grant to pay for is roofs. This program helps low-income households throughout our district access the support they need to reduce financial stress and live more comfortably, says Shires. In the last ten years, FHLBank has invested just over $30 million in critical home repairs across the state of Michigan, assisting just under 4,000 residents. Thats a significant amount of households that no longer have to worry about how they were going to pay for a nasty leak in their roof or repair their HVAC system. Shelby Trails Apartments @DSandsDetroit Sarah Milanowski accompanies a LifeCircles PACE participant. Chris Burnaw. Legal Services of Northern Michigan Emily Miller. Rena Murshud The moment we expected has come! Azerbaijan's efforts were very successful and led to the abolition of the so-called "Nagorno-Karabakh" name on earth. September 28 is considered a historical achievement of Azerbaijan. In the end, all the projects of 200-year-old Armenian separatists were destroyed along with miatsum. Thanks to both the 44-day war and local anti-terrorist measures on July 21, Azerbaijan fully restored its territorial integrity and sovereignty. This is considered a historical achievement of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Supreme Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev, and the entire Azerbaijani people! So, Samvel Shahramanyan, who considers himself the president of the so-called republic, signed a "decree" on the complete abolition of the so-called regime until January 1, 2024 (this is actually the time period given to him by Azerbaijan). The "Decree" comes into force immediately after its publication. Also, Armenians currently living in Garabagh have already started migrating from the legal Azerbaijani lands to Yerevan. With that, the Armenians living in Garabagh are waiting for the reintegration process again. "The reason why the so-called "Nagorno-Karabakh" president made such a decision is the result of the efforts of Azerbaijan's glorious victories. On September 21, as a result of the military, diplomatic, and political efforts of Azerbaijan along with the local anti-terrorist measures, the so-called, and illegitimate status had to be canceled. Yes, Azerbaijan achieved its goal. As a result of these efforts, the other side had to fulfill its obligations. This name-change process will continue until the end of 2023 and will be fully under the control of Azerbaijan." Gungor Yavuzaslan, a Turkish reporter who conducts political and social research on the Turkic world and the Middle East, stated these words in an interview with Azernews. According to him, this decision will contribute to stability, peace, and sustainable development in the South Caucasus. The presence of an illegal terrorist element right in the middle of Garabagh was a threat to the stability of the region. By eliminating this, Azerbaijan proved that it can protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity in the South Caucasus. "As we can see now, a large number of Armenians are migrating from Garabagh to Yerevan. First, most of the immigrants are Armenians who came after 1991, that is, they are not considered Garabagh Armenians. On the other hand, there was great pressure from Armenia on the Armenians living in Garabagh. The reason is that if the Armenians living there live together with the citizens of Azerbaijan, they will be branded as traitors. For this reason, many Armenians are "loyal" to their state and return to avoid being branded as traitors," G. Yavuzaslan added. According to the Turkish correspondent, all property documents and population records of Armenian families who lived in Garabagh before 1991 are in the Baku archive. After the reintegration process, the Armenians remaining in the Garabagh region will live under equal conditions with Azerbaijani citizens. It is possible that a transition period and calendar will be applied on these eves. The situation there will be determined based on this transition calendar. In conclusion, Gungor Yavuzaslan noted that it is possible to talk about New Azerbaijan with its fully liberated territories after January 1. "Azerbaijan is a country that has almost got possession of its lands in the South Caucasus. From January 1, together with Turkiye, the new Azerbaijan will continue to rise, as it has been until now," the Turkish correspondent underlined. Chinese Premier Li Qiang shakes hands with Tefera Derbew Yimam, Ethiopian ambassador to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 28, 2023. Li met with newly appointed diplomatic envoys and representatives stationed in China from 52 countries and international organizations at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Thursday. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei) BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang said Thursday that China will adhere to the basic state policy of opening up, firmly follow the win-win strategy of opening up, work with all parties to practice genuine multilateralism, and achieve common growth through cooperation to deliver more benefits to people of all countries. Li made the remarks when meeting with newly appointed diplomatic envoys and representatives stationed in China from 52 countries and international organizations at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. While extending welcome to the diplomatic envoys and representatives to take up their new posts in China, Li said China attaches great importance to developing friendly cooperation with various countries and international organizations. "The Chinese government will provide support and convenience for envoys and representatives performing duties in China. It is hoped you can act as bridges and bonds facilitating mutual understanding, mutual trust, and cooperation between China and the rest of the world," said Li. The premier said that China always adheres to upholding world peace and promoting common development underlying its foreign policy and is committed to building a community with a shared future for humanity. "We stand ready to work with all parties to inject more certainty, stability, and positive energy into world peace and development." He went on to point out that, at present, China is advancing its modernization drive with high-quality development in an all-round way. "The economy, on the whole, is picking up and enjoying bright prospects for future development. This will surely inject more new impetus into global economic recovery and sustainable development." The diplomatic envoys and representatives expressed warm congratulations on the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, highly appreciated the achievements of Chinese modernization, spoke highly of China's important contribution to the cause of global peace and development, and expressed their willingness to play a positive role in strengthening the friendly cooperation between various countries and international organizations and China. Embattled Chinese property giant Evergrande has suspended share trading on the Hong Kong stock exchange only a month after it resumed trading after a 17-month suspension. Trading in its two other units the property services and electric vehicle groups also stopped at 9am on Thursday, according to notices posted by the stock exchange. Guardian The risk of blackouts in Great Britain will be lower this winter thanks to higher gas storage levels in Europe and more nuclear power imported from France, the company responsible for keeping the lights on has said. National Grids electricity system operator (ESO) said Britain was in a stronger position heading into the coldest months than it was a year ago when Russias invasion of Ukraine had left officials scrambling for backup power. Guardian Too much government borrowing is undermining faith in official economic forecasts, the Institute for Fiscal Studies has warned. The think tank said a raft of unexpected and expensive policies rolled out by recent Chancellors had led to a surge in the size of the state and fuelled Britains deficit, while also making forecasts less accurate. Telegraph A whatever it takes attitude to making money meant PwCs Australian partners overlooked rule-breaking from rainmaker colleagues, a report on the firms leaking of confidential government tax plans has said. The report, released yesterday, criticised a concentration of power at the top, which allowed the chief executive relatively unchecked authority. The Times Ryanairs chief executive has said British air traffic control is by far the worst in Europe, after travellers were hit by more cancellations this week due to staff sickness. Michael OLeary criticised the UKs air traffic control network as by far and away the least productive, most inefficient. The Times CHICAGO, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- There should be a genuine adherence on the U.S. part to the one-China principle before peace and stability can be maintained across the Taiwan Strait, Chinese Consul General in Chicago Zhao Jian said recently. The political confrontation across the Taiwan Strait after 1949 was a continuation of the Chinese civil war, Zhao said in a signed article published in Star Tribune, the largest newspaper in the U.S. state of Minnesota. "But both sides have maintained that there is only one China and Taiwan is a part of China, and remained committed to realizing reunification, though they differed on how to do so," he said. Tension arose because Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party authorities, since coming to power, have openly challenged the one-China principle and kept pushing forward "de-sinicization" and "incremental independence," Zhao said. The U.S. government has continuously obscured and hollowed out the one-China principle, upgraded official contacts with Taiwan and arms sales to Taiwan, only emboldening Taiwan's provocative activities, he added. The one-China principle is the centerpiece of the relevant China-U.S. joint communiques, and forms the bedrock of China-U.S. relations, said Zhao. "If the United States really wants to contribute to the stability across the strait, there should be a genuine adherence to the one-China principle and a true support to the Chinese efforts to promote the peaceful reunification." Just as the U.S. government would never agree to the splitting of the union during the American Civil War, the Chinese will never allow the separatist forces to split China, Zhao stressed. China resolutely safeguards the one-China principle and will do the utmost to pursue peaceful reunification, Zhao reiterated. "The Chinese people won't fight against their compatriots, but will never allow 'Taiwan independence.'" India has retained the 40th rank out of 132 economies in the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2023 rankings published by the World Intellectual Property Organisation. It has been on a rising trajectory over the past several years in the Global Innovation Index (GII), from a rank of 81 in 2015 to 40 in 2023. This year, NITI Aayog, in partnership with industry body CII and the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), is hosting virtually the India Launch of the GII 2023 on September 29, 2023. The launch session will be graced by many senior dignitaries, including vice-chairman NITI Aayog Suman Bery, member V. K. Saraswat, CEO B.V.R. Subrahmanyam, and director general of WIPO Daren Tang, among others. The GII is a reliable tool for governments across the world to assess the innovation-led social and economic changes in their respective countries. Over the years, the GII has established itself as a policy tool for various governments and helped them to reflect upon the existing status quo. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has also been collaborating in India's journey towards an innovation-driven economy, a NITI Aayog statement said. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. A Staten Island man is one of three suspects charged in connection with the death of a 48-year-old found in a burned-out home in Maine nearly six years ago, according to police. Authorities allege that the three men are responsible for the murder of Wayne Foss, whose body was found in 2017 in his charred home in Whitneyville, Maine. Leanza Boney was arrested at his Staten Island home on Wednesday around 5 a.m. on a warrant for murder, felony murder, arson and robbery charges and then transported to the NYPDs 107th Precinct stationhouse in Queens for processing pending extradition, according to a statement from Maine State Police. Members of the Maine State Police Major Crimes Unit North and the U.S. Marshals Service New York/New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task Force were among the authorities involved in his apprehension. Boney, 26, lives on Hill Street in the Stapleton Houses, according to a source with knowledge of the investigation. Maine State Police said that 27-year-old Basilio Liranzo of New York City, who currently is incarcerated in Maine State Prison on unrelated charges, will be facing charges of felony murder, robbery, and arson in the case. Justin Matthews, 33, was arrested on Sept. 21 in Saco, Maine. Matthews, formerly of Pembroke in that state, was transported to Washington County Jail in Machias, Maine, where he is being held without bail on a warrant on murder, felony murder, arson and robbery charges. DISCOVERY In the early hours of the morning on Oct. 28, 2017, investigators with the Maine State Fire Marshals Office responded to a structural fire in Whitneyville and soon found a body in the burned-out home. The Maine State Police Major Crimes Unit North and the Evidence Response Team were among authorities who responded to the scene. The victim was identified as Foss after his remains were transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Augusta, Maine. An autopsy was performed and the 48-year-old mans death was ruled a homicide, police said. Like all unsolved homicide cases, it remained an active investigation and detectives vigorously pursued every lead in the case over the next six years, the Maine State Police statement said. Last week that diligence culminated with three people being indicted by a Washington County Grand Jury. OTHER STATEN ISLAND NEWS: >> NYPD: Raid nets drugs at Staten Island home of felon previously convicted in narcotics ring >> NYPD touts gun arrest at fight involving teens on Staten Island >> New drug treatment touts dramatic reduction in overdoses on Staten Island >> NYPD: Man, 21, arrested in fatal shooting of store owner during attempted robbery on Staten Island >> NYPD detective arrested in domestic dispute on Staten Island STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. A Staten Island man accused of fatally stabbing his 81-year-old neighbor and wounding two others works in the pizza business on Staten Island, according to sources with knowledge of the investigation. Ramazan Ramusevic, 57, was arraigned during a virtual meeting from his hospital bed Wednesday in state Supreme Court, St. George, on charges that include second-degree murder, first-degree assault and criminal possession of a weapon. He stands accused in the Sept. 22 murder of Francesco (Frank) Pompilii inside a home on Sunnyside Terrace in Sunnyside. Assistant District Attorney Jason Cohen said Wednesday that prosecutors are in the process of reviewing a voluminous amount of evidence recovered at the scene. The two other men found stabbed by emergency responders were identified by sources as Pompiliis friend, Redzep Cobaj, 78, and Cobajs son, Skender Cobaj, 51. The men reportedly all knew each other, sources said. Ramusevic, who was handcuffed to a hospital bed during the virtual appearance, is undergoing examination for mental health issues, a source noted this week. His face was like a madman, neighbor Kelly Doyle said of the suspect when police took him into custody, according to the New York Post. He looked deranged when he came out. At his arraignment this week, the defendant wiry in stature with a messy, gray head of hair and facial stubble listened intently to Justice Lisa Grey, who presided over the hearing. He frequently rubbed his face and at one point shook his head from side to side as if in disbelief. His attorney, Craig Newman, told the court that he was awaiting discovery from prosecutors before arguing for bail. He declined to comment following the hearing. Grey ordered the defendant be remanded at the behest of prosecutors, before adjourning the case to Nov. 2. A Husband, father, and seamster According to Advance/SILive.com archives, Pompilii was born in Abruzze, Italy, and arrived in America at the age of 17. He attended Curtis High School and the Fashion Institute of Technology, where he became certified as a fashion clothing cutter supervisor. He worked as a supervisor for making and cutting band uniforms at the former Uniforms By Ostwald in New Brighton for 22 years. He later worked for 10 years at Albilt Uniforms in the Bronx as a supervisor in the clothing cutting department before retiring. He and his wife, Doreen, had been married for more than 50 years, and had two children and six grandchildren. A woman who lives nearby described Pompilii as a staple on the street, and said: Its a great loss for everyone. OTHER STATEN ISLAND NEWS: >>Child porn video on ex-civilian NYPD employees phone ends in guilty plea, sentencing on Staten Island >> NYPD: Neighbor arrested in fatal stabbing of man, 81, on Staten Island >> Judge orders migrants to vacate St. John Villa shelter, but appeal likely >> P.A.I.N Station shuttered after Port Richmond drug raid. Rossville owners respond in court docs. >> Staten Island man who abused huskies on deplorable property takes plea. D.A. rails against cruelty laws. A 34-year-old woman was allegedly stabbed to death by her brother in her Brooklyn apartment Wednesday, according to police. Darnell Farmer, 31, confessed to police in a 911 call Wednesday morning that he had stabbed his older sister, Latoya Farmer, the New York Post reported. Officers found Latoya Farmer dead from multiple stab wounds to the neck and torso inside the apartment on Pennsylvania Avenue, near New Lots Avenue, according to the report. A source told the outlet that the attack appeared to be unprovoked, adding that the man had mental health issues. Darnell Farmer was taken into custody and has been charged with murder and criminal possession of a weapon, police said. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. A non-profit organizations claim it would work to sell a former Midland Beach senior residence never came to fruition, and now that the site has become a migrant shelter, local officials are questioning whether those claims were nothing but lies. Homes for the Homeless, the organization that owns the former Island Shores Senior Residence at 1111 Father Capodanno Boulevard, has repeatedly declined to comment on its arrangement with City Hall turning the location into a shelter, but local elected officials said Monday that theyd gotten the same treatment for months. The organization announced to residents of the senior home last September that it planned to close its doors by March 2023, but that it would seek to sell the property to an organization that could keep the site as it was. [Homes for the Homeless is] considering selling Island Shores to focus on its core mission of serving homeless families, the organization wrote in a letter at the time. Our preferred buyer of the building would be another senior operator; however, we cannot be sure of that, or when or if a sale will be completed. Councilman David Carr (R-Mid-Island) said he and Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-Staten Island/South Brooklyn) approached Homes for the Homeless with multiple interested parties hoping to learn more about the sale, but were met with dead silence. Eventually, Homes for the Homeless told Carr that they were no longer interested in selling the property, and a few months later, the organization is now providing migrant shelter services at the location, the councilman said at a Monday press conference highlighting a senior booted from Island Shores. What happened over the course of the previous eight to 10 months that made this institution go from wanting to sell...to now, a shelter? Carr said. Clearly, someone at Homes for the Homeless saw an opportunity. An opportunity for them to get another profitable contract, and do what they do in other places. Councilman David Carr (R-Mid-Island) expresses his opposition to a deal cut by the city with the non-profit Homes for the Homeless that eventually turned the Island Shores Senior Residence into a migrant shelter at a press conference on Monday, Sept. 25, 2023. (Staten Island Advance/Jason Paderon). Homes for the Homeless is headquartered in Manhattan, and operates several shelters around New York. It drew similar criticism in 2019, when it kicked 31 seniors from a separate senior residence it operated in Manhattan, as reported by non-profit news outlet, THE CITY. The organizations president and CEO, Ralph Nunez, brought home a compensation package worth nearly $650,000 in 2020, according to the most recently-available federal tax forms. Island Shores opened in the 1970s as Midland Manor a senior living facility under different ownership but transitioned to a shelter after Homes for the Homeless purchased the site in 1987. Homes for the Homeless returned the site to senior housing in 1999 after the city, under former Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, declined to award a 5-year contract worth $15 million for the organization to continue the shelter. At the time, members of the Midland Beach community celebrated the shelters closure as it had become a source of quality of life issues for residents and business in the area. Debi Vadola, curent head of the Midland Beach Civic Association, criticized the new shelter Monday and the citys decision to effectively block off part of the neighborhood as an apparent safety measure. It was just nothing but problems for the stores along Midland Avenue, and then they finally shut it down, she said. Then they announced it would be a [senior residence] and that was the greatest thing. A spokesperson for the city Department of Social Services, which oversees homeless shelters, said Sept. 19 that the city would open a shelter at Island Shores for up to 113 families with Homes for the Homeless providing services at the site. Now, Malliotakis is seeking information via a Freedom of Information Law request about the contract between the city and Homes for the Homeless, when conversations between the two entities started, and what happened to the seniors who lived there. [Homes for the Homeless] is supposed to be doing whats in the interest of the community. Not signing lucrative deals that are not in the benefit of our community, she said. MORE LOCAL NEWS Judge orders migrants to vacate St. John Villa shelter, but appeal likely Former resident, a 95-year-old veteran, slams Island Shores after conversion into NYC migrant shelter East Shore Seawall finally set to get underway after years of delays NYPD locks down Midland Beach thoroughfare in latest migrant security move All NYC businesses will have to follow these new trash rules as part of Mayor Adams anti-rat battle STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Tuesday that more than 48,000 New York state military families will now be eligible to receive child care fee assistance covering 15,000 state-licensed child care providers. The assistance will relieve the cost of child care not covered by the parent fee as calculated by their total family income up to a maximum child care rate of $1,800 per month per child. New York state is the first state in the nation approved to qualify licensed/registered child care providers for participation in this federal military fee assistance program. Child care providers who are licensed by the state Office of Children and Family Services are eligible to participate in the program and receive fee assistance on behalf of a military family under the U.S. Department of Defenses Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS program. While the costs of child care continue to rise beyond what many families can afford, providing high-quality, accessible, and low-cost care choices for New York families is vital. That commitment extends to our military families, Hochul said. Created more than 15 years ago, the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS program offers financial aid to reduce the personal cost for military families using community child care providers. However, under the program, the child care providers are required to be nationally accredited, and this can leave families with limited options. The military fee assistance will offset the cost not covered by the parent fee as calculated by total family income up to a maximum child care rate of $1,800 per month per child. From Fort Drum to West Point, access to affordable child care is essential for military families across New York State, said U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer. That is why Im proud to help deliver this vital federal assistance to our over 48,000 military families, making New York the first state in the nation to participate in this expanded assistance program. Our military families sacrifice an enormous amount for our country and it is vital that they receive the child care assistance they deserve, U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand said. Military families can find an approved child care provider through the U.S. Department of Defenses request-for-care website MilitaryChildCare.com. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Heavy rain rolling into New York City may cause flooding Friday, the National Weather Service warned. Between 2 inches and 4 inches of rain, with possible localized amounts topping 5 inches, could accumulate between Friday and Saturday morning, the agency said in a flood watch extended to all five boroughs, Long Island and a large swath of the tri-state area. The flood watch is in effect from 2 a.m. on Friday to 10 a.m. on Saturday, the National Weather Service said. [Flood Watch]: Heavy rainfall is expected with potential of scattered to numerous flash flooding late tonight into Friday night for portions of the area. 2 to 4 inches of rain are forecast with localized higher amounts in excess of 5 inches possible. pic.twitter.com/gC6oxMnE63 NWS New York NY (@NWSNewYorkNY) September 28, 2023 Rainfall rates in excess of 1 inch-per hour could occur during the storms, potentially inundating vulnerable areas. Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations, the National Weather Service said. Extensive street flooding and flooding of creeks and rivers are possible. People who live in basement dwelling are urged to move to a higher floor during periods of heavy rain, and individuals should avoid walking or driving through areas of unknown water depth. If power is lost and immediate assistance is needed, dial 911, NotifyNYC said in an alert. by Raheela Nazir ISLAMABAD, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Adhering to the visionary concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind, China has been playing an exemplary role in promoting fairer, more just and inclusive global human rights governance, a Pakistani expert has said. China's major global initiatives including the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative are particularly relevant to the improvement of global human rights governance, Farhat Asif, president of an Islamabad-based think-tank, said in a recent interview with Xinhua. "The emphasis on promoting human rights through development aligns with the idea that sustainable development is a key driver of improved human rights conditions," the president of the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies said, highlighting that economic growth, access to education, healthcare, and basic amenities are central to the realization of human rights. Asif underlined that China's policy of non-interference in the internal affairs of sovereign nations remained crucial in safeguarding the sovereignty and dignity of all nations. "Unlike some Western nations, China does not impose its values, culture or political systems on others, which resonates with many developing countries seeking to chart their own paths to development and self-determination, an approach that is often appreciated by many countries in the developing world," she added. Talking about the active participation of China in international forums in upholding global human rights governance, the expert said that the country has engaged constructively with the Human Rights Council and other United Nations human rights mechanisms, reflecting its willingness to be a part of the global dialogue on human rights. Also, China's promotion of exchanges and cooperation with other countries in the field of human rights fosters a culture of mutual learning and understanding, she said, adding that by sharing experiences and best practices, China has contributed to the development of a more just and inclusive global human rights system. Noting that the challenges of unbalanced, unsustainable development and the politicization of human rights remained significant impediments to the advancement of human society, Asif called for a cooperative and inclusive approach to addressing global challenges. "China's approach encourages countries to work together in a spirit of cooperation rather than confrontation, which can help reduce the politicization of human rights issues and create a more conducive environment for dialogue," she added. Focusing on the interconnectedness of nations and the shared future of humanity, China's ideas and initiatives in the realm of global human rights governance offer a promising path toward further progress in the global human rights cause. 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! Almost 38 per cent of Sky News digital audience (YouTube, Facebook and Twitter) comes from the US compared with 26 per cent in Australia, according to data from media monitoring company Meltwater, commissioned by this masthead. It is young, too, with an average age of 30. Sky, which shares revenue from advertisements shown before and during its videos, signed content deals with YouTube and Facebook in 2019. Data shows an average of 28,400 views per video, and more than 100 individual videos are posted each day, providing a lucrative income stream from YouTubes creator program. An analysis of recent content posted to Sky News YouTube channel across a seven-day period (September 18 to 25) shows content critical of Biden rating best among subscribers by some margin, with local content barely featuring. The internal grumbling at Sky News has been spurred on by a stringent push from the digital heads for all traffic to be directed through Skys official channels to better scoop up all available revenue. A recent email sent to staff by head of programs Mark Calvert instructed that all references to personal social media accounts be removed by all local broadcast presenters and commentators. On-air promotion of the personal social media accounts of Sky News staff, hosts, contributors is not permitted, the email, seen by this masthead, said. Another email in August told staff not to make any requests from Houghton and Love, and should talent want a particular on-air angle pushed, to write an opinion piece for skynews.com.au instead. Under Whittaker, Sky News has been more successful in monetising its content digitally than its competitors, with broadcast ratings viewed with diminishing importance. The Sky YouTube channel pulls in 100 million views a month through chopped-up clips from its 24-hour news coverage. It also posts an average of 1700 videos a month to its 1.4 million Facebook followers. The ABC, by comparison, posted 155 videos to its YouTube channel over the past seven days to its audience of 1.88 million subscribers. Nine News posted 160 videos to its 1.23 million subscribers. Nine is the owner of this masthead. Sky has profited from moving its content further to the right, as opposed to the more mainstream News Corp titles, including The Australian and The Daily Telegraph, which continue to embark on sustained rounds of redundancies and cost-cutting. The ascent of Whittaker, a former editor-in-chief of both aforementioned mastheads, culminated in his appointment as chair of a new editorial board at The Australian, overseeing Michelle Gunn, its first female editor-in-chief. The move is viewed as a further formalisation of the connection between the papers and Sky News, according to a senior executive at News Corp, who spoke anonymously in order to speak freely, with on-air content pushed via news on the mastheads website and several of its high-profile commentators regularly publishing columns as well. Media companies, including Nine and the ABC, have similar arrangements. Sky News Australia was purchased wholly by News Corp in 2016, previously an entity in shared ownership by BSkyB, Seven Network and Nine Network, the transition coming while under the stewardship of Angelos Frangopoulos, the man credited with building the network, which he led for almost two decades. First joining Sky News Arabia in 2018, since 2021 Frangopoulos has been running the new British channel GB News, described recently by former Sun editor David Yelland as a poundland Fox News, drawing on his experience catering to the quiet Australians via the Australian channel. GB News has been marred with controversy since its launch, its high-profile chair, former Murdoch lieutenant Andrew Neil, departing three months after its launch, with calls for its broadcasting licence to be pulled this week after two prominent presenters were suspended over comments made on air regarding a female journalist. Sky News sealed deals with WIN and Southern Cross Austereo in 2021 to launch Sky News Regional, increasing the networks top commentators reach across parts of NSW, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia on free-to-air television. However, Sky News online market share, thanks to cross-promotion of content in News Corp titles, contrasts with its comparatively marginal overnight linear broadcast audiences. Ratings for Chris Kenny, the broadcasters only prominent presenter to advocate for the Yes vote, remain an outlier in its After Dark schedule: audiences are switching off for his show, sandwiched between Andrew Bolt and Paul Murray, according to data from measurement agency OzTAM. Whittaker was not available for interview, while a Sky News Australia spokesperson said: Sky News Australia has a highly successful digital publishing strategy with our content resonating both here in Australia and around the world. Like other media organisations we have policies for sensible management of social media, which are respected by our staff. Prominent surgeon Munjed Al Muderis has told the Federal Court he considered operating on a morbidly obese man with vascular dementia, uncontrolled diabetes and ulcers that would not heal, against the advice of two fellow medical professionals. Al Muderis is a specialist in osseointegration surgery, which involves inserting titanium pins into the residual bone of an amputee, allowing prosthetic limbs to be connected. Surgeon Munjed Al Muderis outside court in Sydney this week. Credit: Dion Georgopoulos A clinical professor at Macquarie University, he is suing The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald and 60 Minutes over reports published and aired in September 2022. He alleges the reports convey a range of defamatory meanings, including that he negligently performed osseointegration surgery and provided inadequate aftercare. Nine, owner of the media outlets, is seeking to rely on a range of defences including a new public interest defence, truth and honest opinion. Two alleged members of a Romanian organised crime gang flew to Sydney in an attempt to steal up to $3.75 million from the bank accounts of hundreds of vulnerable people, police claim. Alexandru Dida, 40, and Dinu Lonut Dinca, 43, will face Sutherland Local Court on Thursday over their alleged involvement in an elaborate transnational card-skimming scheme that involved cloning local debit cards. The cards had the potential to hold approximately $3,712,500 worth of funds skimmed from ATMs. Credit: NSW Police Police arrested the two men and conducted a search warrant at Wolli Creek in Sydneys south about 4.45pm Wednesday, where they say they found an active skimming device, allegedly in the process of embedding details onto nearly 1500 blank credit cards. Police said the cards had the potential to hold approximately $3,712,500 worth of funds skimmed from ATMs. Carved through paddocks, a $2 billion motorway linking Western Sydney Airport to major arterial routes is more than one-third complete and groundwork under way on 14 of the 17 bridges needed for the project. While wet weather hampered the project in its early stages, Roads Minister John Graham said the toll-free M12 motorway was on track to be completed before the opening of the new airport at Badgerys Creek in late 2026. The 16-kilometre M12 motorway will link the M7 to both the new airport and the Northern Road. Credit: Rhett Wyman This is an absolutely crucial project. Its on budget and on time ready for when the Western Sydney Airport opens, he said. Combined with the new airport and an $11 billion metro rail link, construction of the 16-kilometre M12 motorway, which will be two lanes in either direction, underscores the sheer scale of the infrastructure under way in the area once dominated by rolling countryside. Once upon a time, I went to Randwick Girls High. It was a superbly imperfect, boy-free experience made up of inspiring teachers and friendships. Fast-forward to 2023, and Im the proud mother of two sons going to Randwick Boys. And since the announcement to merge the girls and boys schools five days ago, Ive been gobsmacked by the myopic and profoundly prejudiced approach the girls school community has taken against the boys. Phillis Foundis with her sons, Dean and Max Foundis-Borrett, who she says must not be stereotyped as emotionally and intellectually inferior to students at Randwick Girls. I dont care about the statistics both for and against the merger. I care that an entire school of young men are being negatively stereotyped in the name of protecting the perceived sanctity of single-sex education. The Randwick Girls community has set up an online petition and been interviewed by this masthead. Its flawed argument has generated an online chatter largely informed by disturbing and often libellous generalisations. The controversy seems to be predicated on the fantasy that Randwick girls are paragons of virtue and Randwick boys are emotionally and intellectually inferior and prone to predatory behaviour, discrimination and disrespect. CHICAGO, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- The United Auto Workers (UAW) plans to add strike targets against the Big Three U.S. automakers Friday if there is no major progress in their contract negotiation, The Detroit News quoted a UAW source as saying Wednesday. The list of potential strike targets in the next stage involves engine and transmission facilities, as well as large pickup trucks and SUV factories. Like last week, the new locations for strike would be announced at 10 a.m. local time (1400 GMT) on a Facebook livestream hosted by the union, and the strike will begin at noon on Friday. The UAW's unprecedented strike against the Big Three is now on its 13th day. The UAW went on strike on Sept. 15 at three select facilities of Ford, GM and Stellantis, and expanded the strike to 38 General Motors (GM) and Stellantis facilities on Sept. 22. Nationwide, 18,300 UAW autoworkers at 41 Ford Motor Co, GM and Stellantis NV facilities in 20 states are on strike, asking for higher wages, pensions for all workers and elimination of the tiered wage systems. U.S. President Joe Biden visited a picket line outside a GM parts distribution center in the U.S. state of Michigan Tuesday, voicing his support to auto workers. Former U.S. President Donald Trump's visit here came a day after Biden's appearance, where he attacked Biden's policies for transforming the auto industry and showed his support for auto workers. In an interview Tuesday, UAW President Shawn Fain says he sees "no point" in meeting with Trump, "I don't think the man has any bit of care about what our workers stand for, what the working class stands for. He serves a billionaire class." "Our focus right now is 100 percent on getting a great agreement for our members," Fain said. "Today was really about our workers." The automakers are "all for taking all of our tax dollars, helping finance this transition (to EVs). But when it comes to taking care of the workers, the companies keep trying to take us backward and it's unacceptable." The UAW has not endorsed Biden for his 2024 presidential run yet. The union is seeking more support from the president and lawmakers for a "just" transition to EVs, The Detroit News said. According to a Cox Automotive forecast released Tuesday, even with a strike and uncertainties of what's to come between the Big Three and the UAW, the U.S. auto industry's sales through the end of September showed a continued "robust" recovery. Analysts at Edmunds, an American online resource for automotive inventory and information, said Wednesday that the effects of the strike are unlikely to show up in third-quarter sales results for the industry. But if the strike lingers, they expect an impact on auto inventory in the near future. A joint investigation between this masthead and 60 Minutes exposed the stories of workers battling the debilitating symptoms of silicosis while state-based regulators failed to effectively police workplaces to guard against the dangers associated with ingesting dust from engineered stone. Loading Many workers at risk of silicosis are still not being properly protected in their workplaces. The Lung Foundation Australia is launching on Friday an awareness campaign called Another One Fights the Dust aimed at tradies, many of whom they say are uninformed about silica dust. They hope the campaign will increase pressure on employers to provide safe workplaces. It will include a quiz workers can take about lung health hazards in the workplace. The federal government continues to sit on a report from Safe Work Australia, completed last month, investigating a ban on engineered stone. A spokesperson for Workplace Relations Minister Tony Burke said the relevant federal, state and territory ministers would meet in October to discuss the reports recommendations and decide on the next steps. The Lung Foundation is calling for a ban on the importation of some or all engineered stone products by July 2024, if there are no acceptable improvements in safety compliance in the sector. Artificial stone contains up to 95 per cent silica, compared to less than 40 per cent silica in natural stone. The foundations senior manager of occupational lung disease, Elizabeth Early, said there had been no signs of improvement. Most of the data we have indicates that the prevalence of silicosis is increasing in all states and territories, Early said. In NSW, 64 cases of silicosis and 10 deaths from the disease were recorded in 2021 and 2022. The year before there were 57 cases detected and seven deaths. Most of the new cases in NSW were diagnosed among clay, concrete, glass and stone-processing-machine operators, but there were also cases among bricklayers, stonemasons, earthmoving plant operators and other construction and mining labourers. Professor Deborah Yates is horrified Australian workers continue to be unprotected from silica dust, developing an entirely preventable disease that she says should have been left behind in the 20th century. The respiratory physician at St Vincents Hospital in Sydney said workers could be protected from silica by using water to suppress dust, proper ventilation and other methods but this wasnt always happening. The obligation is on the employer to ensure that the workplace is safe There are laws that have been in place for many years, but essentially, they just havent been followed. Loading Many workers were also still unaware they were being exposed to a health hazard, she said. She estimated that fewer than 10 per cent of her patients with silicosis had heard of the condition before their diagnosis. Yates said that when she first saw silicosis in England early in her career, it was in patients who had been exposed to silica before World War II. At the time, she thought she would never see bad cases of the disease again. We should not be seeing even a single case nowadays. Its distressing We know how this can be prevented and to see people dying of it is just terrible. McNeill had just returned from maternity leave when she was diagnosed with silicosis after a lung biopsy. Loading It has changed her entire life. Her marriage broke down and she is now extremely vulnerable to infections, leaving her unable to work and regularly in hospital. It brings constant anxiety about picking up bugs. Her daughters Matilda, 7, and Charlee, 5 worry about her too. Its not going to stop, McNeill said. Its something that is going to be constantly progressing Whether pneumonia gets me and thats what kills me, because I cant fight any more because my immunity is down, or its something else thats going to attack my lungs, theres nothing good about it. Young Victorians are committing more violent and serious crimes than previously recorded, and the trend is being driven by offenders aged 14 to 17, state crime statistics released on Thursday reveal. Among that age group, there was a more than 26 per cent increase in the 12 months to June. This included 3758 assaults, more than 1300 robberies and 1495 car thefts. Shoplifting committed by offenders of all age groups represented the biggest increase in offences. There was also a 16 per cent spike in crime overall among that age group year-on-year, which included more than 944 burglaries up from 279 pre-pandemic. Police also expressed concern for the 10 to 13-year-old age group where there was a 38 per cent jump in serious crimes on pre-pandemic levels. The new data shows they committed 3187 serious offences, which included 346 burglaries. Powerful reporting in war-torn Ukraine by The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age has been recognised with a prestigious award that celebrates Australias best coverage of global affairs. Photojournalist Kate Geraghty and former national security correspondent Anthony Galloway took home the 2023 Lowy Institute Media Award on Thursday night for their reporting on Russias brutal invasion of Ukraine. Ukrainian soldiers on a Pion self-propelled artillery system in the Donetsk Oblast in Ukraine, in November 2022. Credit: Kate Geraghty ABC broadcaster Fran Kelly, a member of the judging panel, said Geraghty and Galloway used photojournalism and the written word to deliver first-hand, powerful accounts that brought the biggest story in the world of the past two years to our homes and our hearts. In the end the judges credited these two journalists with not just navigating a war zone and operating at a high level within that but also for the fact that their coverage of such a well reported global story found new people to speak to and uncovered new evidence of Russian war crimes, Kelly said. The disability royal commission has split over the future of special schools, with some commissioners to recommend they be phased out completely over the long term. On Friday, the government is expected to release the final report of the $599 million royal commission, which was asked to investigate conditions for people with disabilities in schools, workplaces, jails, group homes, hospitals, and day programs. Disability royal commission chair Ronald Sackville (right) and commissioners (l-r) John Ryan, Dr Alastair McEwin, Andrea Mason, Dr Rhonda Galbally, Barbara Bennett hand their final report to Governor-General David Hurley (second from right) on Thursday. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Over 4 years, the commission heard of widespread exclusion of children with disabilities in the school system, sickening abuses in group homes, and people with disabilities working in Australian Disability Enterprises (formerly known as sheltered workshops) paid as little as $2.37 a day. All six commissioners want more inclusion of disabled children in schools, according to multiple sources close to the royal commission. London: Former prime minister Julia Gillard has urged a large contingent of expat Australians to make their vote count at next months referendum, saying an Indigenous Voice to Parliament enshrined in the constitution would ensure future generations listen to those who have suffered from a century of policies imposed on them. Gillard, who made a point of mentioning her 62nd birthday this week, told a crowd of around 150 Australians gathered for the Yes23 campaign launch in London, that an Aboriginal woman born in 1961 had been largely failed by governments of all stripes and had likely suffered generational trauma. Former prime minister Julia Gillard at the launch of the Yes campaign in London. The UK-based Gillard joined youth advocate Yasmin Poole, Irish social rights campaigner Tiernan Brady and a drag queen called Karla Bear, who sang John Farnhams anthemic hit Youre The Voice in Camden ahead of early voting in the UK capital beginning next week. More than 15,000 people both Australian citizens living in the UK and holidaymakers are expected to vote at the High Commission in London, making the booth the largest run by the Australian Electoral Commission anywhere in the world. The tech sector has cautioned the government over plans to give citizens the right to learn how artificial intelligence systems make decisions, such as to deny a bank loan or set insurance premiums, while AI experts say an in-principle agreement to allow individuals to be forgotten online could be unworkable for systems like ChatGPT. Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus on Wednesday released the Albanese governments response to a major review of privacy laws, which called for wholesale privacy protections. The government plans to give citizens the right to learn how AI systems make decisions, like denying a loan, but the tech sector says that could be difficult. Credit: Bloomberg Independents David Pocock, Kate Chaney and Zali Steggall criticised Labor for rejecting a suggestion to force political parties which often send mass texts to voters to comply with privacy laws. However, its agreement to remove an exemption for small businesses from the Privacy Act received backing from small business ombudsman and former Coalition minister Bruce Billson after lobby groups cautioned on the potential cost. The governments response committed to empowering Australians as they confront a society increasingly ruled by judgments of automated tools instead of humans. In regards to Lee Tullochs recent column on saving money in Europe (Traveller, September 16), travellers need to beware of the local culture in different regions of Italy, especially regarding the hanging of washing on balconies and eating in the street when not at a cafe. I had no problems when doing both these things on a recent trip, but that was not the case when I was travelling with my Italian language group in 2017, in Alba, northern Italy. One morning when we had boarded our bus, people who had hung their washing out on their balconies were asked to disembark and remove the offending eyesore before we could leave for the day. Another day, in the suburbs of Turin, we happened to be very hungry and someone wanted to share a pizza. We were all tucking in when our bus driver, in stern Italian, told us to stop eating and not to bring the offending pizza onto his bus la bella figura is still so important to many Italians. Susan Digby, Geelong, Vic Wild things I can endorse Mark Daffeys article (Traveller, September 16) on the attractions of travelling in remote outback Australia, especially on an Outback Spirit tour. Their four-wheel-drive bus minimises the discomfort of the corrugated roads while their lodges in the bush maximise your comfort in the evening. Seeing our native animals in the wild is a great experience. However, I looked in vain for some recognition in the article that the animals he was seeing in such numbers are feral, and doing great damage to the native environment and animals. Herds of buffalo, pigs and brumbies are not to be celebrated. Helene Juliff, Ashburton, Vic Lest we forget The extract from Penny Watsons book Wilderness (Traveller, September 16) celebrates the worlds wildest natural places that have endured despite humanity. But the romantic western notion of wilderness overlooks the fact that many iconic landscapes are actually the product of long-term management and maintenance by Indigenous peoples. In the central deserts of Australia, for example, areas mapped as wilderness are the ancestral homes of many Aboriginal peoples who actively managed the land for tens of thousands of years. And there are approximately 1000 known Aboriginal heritage sites within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Lets be careful how we use the term wilderness, lest we unintentionally perpetuate a modern version of Terra Nullius. Ray Peck, Hawthorn, Vic Drum on the Rum Im just back from a fabulous trip to Jordan where the disappointment was Wadi Rum (Traveller, September 16). I almost felt guilty for imposing my presence on the once pristine surroundings where there now are 280 campsites, light-polluted skies and plastic debris all around. Well away from the tourist trail may be the only way now to feel the magic there. Lyn Langtry, East Ryde, NSW Grave mistake Highgate Marx the spot. Credit: Alamy I would like to point out that, contrary to your readers letter, the grave of Karl Marx is found in Highgate Cemetery in London, not Hampstead Cemetery. Marx must be turning in his grave. Joanne Webster, Canberra, ACT EDITORS NOTE: The online version of the readers letter in question has been corrected. Stop the slot rot Instead of the arguments favouring an increase in landing slots for Qatar, why isnt there an outcry that we allow so many international aircraft to access Australian airports, yet, with the exception of slots for QF1 and QF2 through Singapores Changi Airport, no other nation allows Qantas to access their airports as a stopover point to Europe, the Americas or elsewhere without relying on code sharing? Qantas has no through access from Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur or even Auckland. We should restrict foreign airline slots unless reciprocal access is available to Qantas to their airports. This is a dreadful geographical disadvantage for our national carrier which demands consideration. Mark Berg, Caringbah South, NSW Tip of the week: Kilt trip Scotland is a great place to visit, but hotels are more expensive than they used to be. Credit: Alamy Scotland is an absolutely fantastic place to visit: highlands, lowlands, kilts, bagpipes, and haggis. Its really got the lot. But beware when booking your accommodation. Not that long ago I thought I was splashing out a bit when booking hotel rooms if I went as far as $150 to $200 a night. Now, most rooms, whether youre booking a B&B, guesthouse or hotel, will set you back at least $250, and thats the absolute bottom of the poor value barrel small, pokey, no bar fridge, shabby (and not of the shabby chic variety) and with no lift. Maybe we should blame the pandemic and the weak Australian dollar but prices are through the roof. Book carefully. Margot Pope, Lewisham, NSW Trunk calls Beware Qatar Airways if your suitcase is smashed, as occurred to mine on a flight with the airline in June. I filled out the required lengthy paperwork online, with documentation and photos, and forwarded it to the listed baggage services. Follow up emails and phone messages over the last three months have gone unanswered and I am left with only a receipt for my claim with no recourse. At least I got my luggage contents back. Jill Hicks, Burwood, Vic Dutch treat If possible, always book the national carrier when departing for another country within Europe. I am in Amsterdam and flying to Hamburg Germany. I have a ticket booked with the Netherlands national airline KLM and my boss has a ticket booked with another airline, Eurowings, and we both have paid almost the same price. We both reached the airport about four hours early to return the rental car but the check-in counters dont open until two hours before departure. Except, that is, for KLM, meaning unlike my boss, Im able to check-in my luggage, move freely around the airport and pass through security. Rakesh Sahore, Lindfield, NSW Not appy During a recent extended visit to Europe, my NSW drivers licence expired, so I renewed it online and could show my current digital licence using the Service NSW app. On presentation of this licence at a Europcar desk at an airport, I was advised that only a current valid physical licence was accepted and that digital licences from NSW Australia were specifically not accepted. I was thus refused permission to hire the car. Apart from the obvious problems of being stranded at the airport with no simple means of undertaking the long driving tour that was planned, it also meant I had to argue the case for a refund via Expedia, which initially refused, citing the refusal of Europcar to make the refund to them. I asked my travel agent to check if Europcar accepted NSW digital licences within Australia and the response was that they did not. David Gibson, Crescent Head, NSW Fine times Menton, France: book your train ticket online. Credit: Alamy On a recent train trip from Nice to Menton, we purchased a ticket from an antiquated machine on the platform. It was the wrong choice and we were fined 50 each. In true French fashion, no explanation was acceptable. My advice is buy tickets online no matter how short the journey. Merridy ODonnell, Birchgrove, NSW Mental over rental Singapore: Malaysia is attempting to repatriate two alleged accomplices to the 2002 Bali bombings in a deal that would expose the uncertainty of authorities about what to do with Hambali, the so-called bin Laden of South-East Asia. Mohammed Farik bin Amin and Mohammed Nazir bin Lep are among about 30 prisoners remaining at Guantanamo Bay, the US militarys detention camp in Cuba established two decades ago to detain terror suspects which is slated to close. Accused Bali bombing accomplices and Malaysian nationals Mohammed Farik bin Amin and Mohammed Nazir bin Lep. Alongside Indonesian-born alleged plotter Hambali, they were charged in 2021 as accessories to the nightclub bombings in Bali, which killed 202 people including 88 Australians, and an explosion at the JW Marriott hotel in 2003 which left 12 dead. However, with the accused militants still to be brought to trial before a US military commission amid interminable delays, the Malaysian government is bidding to bring its two citizens home. WILLEMSTAD:--- The navy patrol ship in the Dutch Caribbean Region, Zr.Ms. Groningen, last week rendered a visit to Cartagena in Columbia. This harbor visit was in the light of preparing joint maritime exercises and thus strengthening cooperation in the field of security in the Caribbean Region. The Dutch Navy ship Zr.Ms. Groningen and the Columbian Navy ship ARC Victoria together sailed out of the harbor of Cartagena on Thursday, September 21. The two ships conducted maritime exercises on the open sea, such as testing basic communication skills and maneuvering exercises. It is the first time in a long time that a Dutch and a Columbian Marine ship operated together with such intensity. The Commander of the Navy in the Caribbean Region, Commander Walter Hansen, previous to the exercises, organized a reception on board of the patrol ship. The guests formed a diverse group from the Columbian Marine as well as from the local authorities and companies, and also from representatives from the Dutch business community, and the Dutch community in Cartagena as well. Besides that, Commander Hansen could get acquainted with the crew of the patrol ship. Columbia is an important safety partner of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Caribbean Region. Cross-border crime, including drug smuggling, has a highly destabilizing and undermining effect on countries in the Caribbean Region. Intensive collaboration between Columbia and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, contributes to the promotion of international security and stability in the region, which is one of the three main tasks of Defense. Local residents consult Chinese doctors at a temporary clinic in Yangon, Myanmar, Sept. 28, 2023. A team of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners from China on Thursday provided free medical services to people in Myanmar's largest city Yangon. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe) YANGON, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- A team of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners from China on Thursday provided free medical services to people in Myanmar's largest city Yangon. With the support of the Fujian General Chamber of Commerce in Myanmar, the Returned Overseas Chinese Federation of Fujian Province set up a temporary clinic in Yangon. The team of five TCM doctors aided by medical staff provided diagnosis and treatment to about 300 local residents during their clinic's operation. "Our purpose is to take care of overseas Chinese people and to promote the essence of traditional Chinese medicine," Zhang Yao, a member of the federation, told Xinhua. The federation annually assembles TCM professionals and dispatches them to foreign countries for charity clinics, she said. Myanmar is the third country that they visited in this program, following their previous endeavors in Laos and Sri Lanka. Liu Guoguang, a Yangon resident who came to see TCM doctor for his gastrointestinal disease at the temporary clinic, said, "This program is very good. I am grateful to China and hope to have many medical activities like this in the future." Chen Jie, chief physician of the Rehabilitation Department of Fujian Provincial Hospital and a member of the Chinese TCM team, said that this was his second visit to Myanmar for a charity clinic. He also noted a significant increase in the number of patients seeking TCM services this time, mostly with back pain. A patient receives acupuncture treatment at a temporary clinic in Yangon, Myanmar, Sept. 28, 2023. A team of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners from China on Thursday provided free medical services to people in Myanmar's largest city Yangon. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe) A patient receives acupuncture treatment at a temporary clinic in Yangon, Myanmar, Sept. 28, 2023. A team of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners from China on Thursday provided free medical services to people in Myanmar's largest city Yangon. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe) A patient receives acupuncture treatment at a temporary clinic in Yangon, Myanmar, Sept. 28, 2023. A team of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners from China on Thursday provided free medical services to people in Myanmar's largest city Yangon. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe) PHILIPSBURG:--- Eighty locally produced articles and resources on child protection are now available on Growing Up Safe St. Maarten (online) Magazine. The website has recently been revamped, and users can now easily search articles by topics of interest and download resources: www.gus.sx / www.growingupsafe-sxm.com Growing Up Safe Sint Maarten is geared primarily towards informing and connecting professionals working in the field of child protection. The magazine also contains interesting information for the wider community, including interviews with childcare professionals, parenting tips, child development advice, and more. In addition, several persons share their personal stories about situations and challenges related to child protection to help inspire change and encourage others who might have faced similar challenges. Young people have also contributed columns and advice pieces to give their youth perspective on topics such as parenting and 21st-century learning. The Magazine is the initiative of the interim Child Protection Working Group (CPWG) with support from UNICEF in the Netherlands. The Child Protection Working Group is an inter-ministerial group, with representatives from the Ministries of Justice, Education, Culture, Youth and Sport (ECYS) and Public Health, Social Development and Labour (VSA). Our professionals, such as teachers, doctors, police, among others, play a key role in ensuring that our kids grow up in a safe environment and reach their full potential. We supported the development of this magazine because we want to help empower and connect these professionals to strengthen the work that they do. explains the CPWG Members. The latest issues, 7 & 8, feature articles related to family dynamics and utilizing play to help children process trauma. We want to thank all of the professionals, parents, young people, and other individuals who have contributed their experience and knowledge to the creation of this magazine, shares the magazines team. Keeping our children safe can only be achieved through community involvement and collaboration. We encourage everyone to read the magazine: www.gus.sx / www.growingupsafe-sxm.com. Every year, a compilation print version of the magazine is also distributed to offices and departments that work in child protection or frequented by families. If persons have suggestions for articles, they can reach out to Laura Bijnsdorp, Communications Specialist for UNICEF the Netherlands, via email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. This activity is part of the Child Resilience and Protection Project (CRPP) executed by UNICEF the Netherlands in collaboration with the Government of Sint Maarten, financed by the Government of the Netherlands, through the Sint Maarten Trust Fund, administered by the World Bank. ~ Doctor mocked patient at SMMC. No agreement in place between the Dominican Republic and St. Maarten.~ PHILIPSBURG/ Dominican Republic:--- The St. Maarten resident Egbert Hector Richardson who is currently a patient at CEDIMAT Dominican Republic went overseas on his own to seek further medical treatment after having surgery at the St. Maarten Medical Center. Edison Adamus the Director and Pastor of Key to Freedom said that Richardson is a resident at Key to Freedom since he is in rehabilitation for substance abuse. He explained that Richardson had a hernia and he was operated upon at the St. Maarten Medical Center. Adamus said after the surgery Richardson ended up with swelling around the area he had the hernia. It is understood that when Richardson went back to the St. Maarten Medical Center, to see the surgeon who operated on him the surgeon decided to make fun of Richardson which in turn bruised his ego as a male. Adamus said because of the statements made by the specialist and surgeon at the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) Richardson opted to travel to the Dominican Republic to seek further medical attention. His intention along with that of his relatives was to shoulder the expenses for his medical treatment while in the Dominican Republic. However, while there Richardson fell very ill and had to be rushed to the emergency care at CEDIMAT. Adamus said that when he reached the hospital the doctors there told him that he was in luck because Richardson could have lost his life because he had an ulcer in his stomach that he was unaware of, and the ulcer had ruptured causing the internal bleeding. Adamus explained that Richardson did not go to the Dominican Republic for the ulcer and that the funds he went there with have since run out and they are unable to pay for a much-needed surgery and further hospitalization. He explained that the only reason the relatives of Richardson went public was because CEDIMAT wanted to discharge the critically ill patient. Minister of Health Omar Ottley said in a video that patients seeking treatment overseas must obtain a referral letter in order for USZV to cover all expenses. In an invited comment the Minister of Health said that when the video surfaced today Thursday only then USZV and the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) became aware that the patient had left the island and was in the Dominican Republic. The Minister further explained that he tried to obtain the patient's medical file from the SMMC but was unable to get the file since the patients medical information is confidential. Ottley: even though I am the Minister of Health, SMMC and USZV do not release patients medical information to me. Its the relatives of the patients that have to request the file and if they so desire, they can then share it with the cabinet. I did my own research and I also listened to Richardson in the videos and he himself said that he was taken in a tunnel for testing. Indeed, after Richardson went back to SMMC with swelling post-surgery, it was discovered he had a lot of liquid in the area and it was drained, Richardson was suffering from severe pain in his back, spine, and other areas, and because of this he was sent for an MRI, however, the result for the MRI takes two weeks before the results are made available. From all indications I get that Richardson did not want to wait that long, so he took off to the Dominican Republic and he did not inform anyone. Ottley also explained that St. Maarten no longer sends patients to the Dominican Republic and there is no current agreement in place between the country St. Maarten and hospitals in the Dominican Republic including CEDIMAT. He said the last patient was sent to the Dominican Republic in 2020 and since then no other agreements have been signed. BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese defense spokesman on Thursday urged the United States to take real action to create conditions to bring relations between the two countries' militaries back on the right track. Wu Qian, the spokesman of the Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks at a press conference when asked to comment on a recent statement of U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs Ely Ratner, who said that the executive levels of the two militaries lack clear and consistent communication channels. Wu said the Chinese and U.S. militaries have maintained candid and effective communication through diplomatic channels. "What the United States does not have is not the communication channels, but the courage and action to face realities squarely and correct its mistakes," Wu said. Kids walk out of their classroom for outdoor activities at a kindergarten in Qumarleb County of Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Sept. 14, 2023. Qumarleb County is located in the source region of the Yellow River, with an average altitude of over 4,500 meters. Children here lead a nomadic life with their families on expansive grasslands far from county seats and towns. Through years of efforts by local government, free preschool education has been extended to pasturing areas. Just around their home, children have chance to be taught by kindergarten teachers from town seats. Since 2022, 15 kindergartens with heating and illumination equipment powered by photovoltaic systems have been built in Qumarleb County by CHN Energy. Up to now, more than 700 children in distant pasturing areas have been recruited to these kindergartens near their living places. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Ngodrup Norwo (3rd L) and other kids sing songs outside their classroom of a kindergarten in Qumarleb County of Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Sept. 14, 2023. Qumarleb County is located in the source region of the Yellow River, with an average altitude of over 4,500 meters. Children here lead a nomadic life with their families on expansive grasslands far from county seats and towns. Through years of efforts by local government, free preschool education has been extended to pasturing areas. Just around their home, children have chance to be taught by kindergarten teachers from town seats. Since 2022, 15 kindergartens with heating and illumination equipment powered by photovoltaic systems have been built in Qumarleb County by CHN Energy. Up to now, more than 700 children in distant pasturing areas have been recruited to these kindergartens near their living places. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pusum Dongdrup walks to his classroom at a kindergarten in Qumarleb County of Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Sept. 14, 2023. Qumarleb County is located in the source region of the Yellow River, with an average altitude of over 4,500 meters. Children here lead a nomadic life with their families on expansive grasslands far from county seats and towns. Through years of efforts by local government, free preschool education has been extended to pasturing areas. Just around their home, children have chance to be taught by kindergarten teachers from town seats. Since 2022, 15 kindergartens with heating and illumination equipment powered by photovoltaic systems have been built in Qumarleb County by CHN Energy. Up to now, more than 700 children in distant pasturing areas have been recruited to these kindergartens near their living places. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Tsering Dradul (2nd R), the deputy principal of a kindergarten, interacts with a boy at the kindergarten in Qumarleb County of Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Sept. 14, 2023. Qumarleb County is located in the source region of the Yellow River, with an average altitude of over 4,500 meters. Children here lead a nomadic life with their families on expansive grasslands far from county seats and towns. Through years of efforts by local government, free preschool education has been extended to pasturing areas. Just around their home, children have chance to be taught by kindergarten teachers from town seats. Since 2022, 15 kindergartens with heating and illumination equipment powered by photovoltaic systems have been built in Qumarleb County by CHN Energy. Up to now, more than 700 children in distant pasturing areas have been recruited to these kindergartens near their living places. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Tsering Dradul (3rd L), the deputy principal of a kindergarten, prepares lunch for children at a kindergarten in Qumarleb County of Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Sept. 14, 2023. Qumarleb County is located in the source region of the Yellow River, with an average altitude of over 4,500 meters. Children here lead a nomadic life with their families on expansive grasslands far from county seats and towns. Through years of efforts by local government, free preschool education has been extended to pasturing areas. Just around their home, children have chance to be taught by kindergarten teachers from town seats. Since 2022, 15 kindergartens with heating and illumination equipment powered by photovoltaic systems have been built in Qumarleb County by CHN Energy. Up to now, more than 700 children in distant pasturing areas have been recruited to these kindergartens near their living places. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Tsering Dradul, the deputy principal of a kindergarten, instructs children in class at the kindergarten in Qumarleb County of Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Sept. 14, 2023. Qumarleb County is located in the source region of the Yellow River, with an average altitude of over 4,500 meters. Children here lead a nomadic life with their families on expansive grasslands far from county seats and towns. Through years of efforts by local government, free preschool education has been extended to pasturing areas. Just around their home, children have chance to be taught by kindergarten teachers from town seats. Since 2022, 15 kindergartens with heating and illumination equipment powered by photovoltaic systems have been built in Qumarleb County by CHN Energy. Up to now, more than 700 children in distant pasturing areas have been recruited to these kindergartens near their living places. (Xinhua/Han Fangfang) A girl says goodbye to her teacher after school at a kindergarten in Qumarleb County of Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Sept. 14, 2023. Qumarleb County is located in the source region of the Yellow River, with an average altitude of over 4,500 meters. Children here lead a nomadic life with their families on expansive grasslands far from county seats and towns. Through years of efforts by local government, free preschool education has been extended to pasturing areas. Just around their home, children have chance to be taught by kindergarten teachers from town seats. Since 2022, 15 kindergartens with heating and illumination equipment powered by photovoltaic systems have been built in Qumarleb County by CHN Energy. Up to now, more than 700 children in distant pasturing areas have been recruited to these kindergartens near their living places. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Tenzin Pasang (1st R) prepares to have lunch at a kindergarten in Qumarleb County of Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Sept. 14, 2023. Qumarleb County is located in the source region of the Yellow River, with an average altitude of over 4,500 meters. Children here lead a nomadic life with their families on expansive grasslands far from county seats and towns. Through years of efforts by local government, free preschool education has been extended to pasturing areas. Just around their home, children have chance to be taught by kindergarten teachers from town seats. Since 2022, 15 kindergartens with heating and illumination equipment powered by photovoltaic systems have been built in Qumarleb County by CHN Energy. Up to now, more than 700 children in distant pasturing areas have been recruited to these kindergartens near their living places. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Sonam Drolma (R) is in class at a kindergarten in Qumarleb County of Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Sept. 14, 2023. Qumarleb County is located in the source region of the Yellow River, with an average altitude of over 4,500 meters. Children here lead a nomadic life with their families on expansive grasslands far from county seats and towns. Through years of efforts by local government, free preschool education has been extended to pasturing areas. Just around their home, children have chance to be taught by kindergarten teachers from town seats. Since 2022, 15 kindergartens with heating and illumination equipment powered by photovoltaic systems have been built in Qumarleb County by CHN Energy. Up to now, more than 700 children in distant pasturing areas have been recruited to these kindergartens near their living places. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pusum Dongdrup (2nd L) plays with other kids in a classroom at a kindergarten in Qumarleb County of Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Sept. 14, 2023. Qumarleb County is located in the source region of the Yellow River, with an average altitude of over 4,500 meters. Children here lead a nomadic life with their families on expansive grasslands far from county seats and towns. Through years of efforts by local government, free preschool education has been extended to pasturing areas. Just around their home, children have chance to be taught by kindergarten teachers from town seats. Since 2022, 15 kindergartens with heating and illumination equipment powered by photovoltaic systems have been built in Qumarleb County by CHN Energy. Up to now, more than 700 children in distant pasturing areas have been recruited to these kindergartens near their living places. (Xinhua/Han Fangfang) Tenzin Pasang (L) plays with other kids in a classroom at a kindergarten in Qumarleb County of Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Sept. 14, 2023. Qumarleb County is located in the source region of the Yellow River, with an average altitude of over 4,500 meters. Children here lead a nomadic life with their families on expansive grasslands far from county seats and towns. Through years of efforts by local government, free preschool education has been extended to pasturing areas. Just around their home, children have chance to be taught by kindergarten teachers from town seats. Since 2022, 15 kindergartens with heating and illumination equipment powered by photovoltaic systems have been built in Qumarleb County by CHN Energy. Up to now, more than 700 children in distant pasturing areas have been recruited to these kindergartens near their living places. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) This aerial photo taken on Sept. 14, 2023 shows a kindergarten in Qumarleb County of Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province. Qumarleb County is located in the source region of the Yellow River, with an average altitude of over 4,500 meters. Children here lead a nomadic life with their families on expansive grasslands far from county seats and towns. Through years of efforts by local government, free preschool education has been extended to pasturing areas. Just around their home, children have chance to be taught by kindergarten teachers from town seats. Since 2022, 15 kindergartens with heating and illumination equipment powered by photovoltaic systems have been built in Qumarleb County by CHN Energy. Up to now, more than 700 children in distant pasturing areas have been recruited to these kindergartens near their living places. (Xinhua/Han Fangfang) Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, meets with Dinh Tien Dung, a member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of Vietnam and secretary of the Hanoi Municipal Communist Party of Vietnam Committee, in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Yan Yan) BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- China's top political advisor Wang Huning met with Dinh Tien Dung, a member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of Vietnam and secretary of the Hanoi Municipal Communist Party of Vietnam Committee in Beijing on Thursday. Wang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, said China-Vietnam relations have maintained a healthy and stable development momentum under strategic guidance of the leaders of the two parties. China is willing to strengthen strategic communication with Vietnam, enhance exchanges between the two parties, jointly pursue modernization with distinct national features, and join hands to build a community with a shared future for humanity, Wang noted. Dung said that developing relations between the two parties and the two countries has always been a top priority of Vietnam, and Vietnam stands ready to work with China to implement the important consensus reached by the two leaders and enhance political mutual trust and strategic cooperation. Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, meets with Dinh Tien Dung, a member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of Vietnam and secretary of the Hanoi Municipal Communist Party of Vietnam Committee, in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Yan Yan) Security guards are seen next to the Royal Palace in Stockholm, capital of Sweden, Aug. 17, 2023. (Photo by Wei Xuechao/Xinhua) Although most of the 42 people shot to death so far this year were members of criminal gangs, citizens are becoming increasingly worried as at least seven of those killed in the last year are believed to have become collateral victims, SVT reported. STOCKHOLM, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- A woman who died in an explosion in Uppsala, west of Stockholm, in the early hours of Thursday became the 12th victim of gang violence fatality in Sweden since the beginning of September, making it the country's deadliest month in four years. The woman, who was in her mid-20s, was killed by an explosive device believed to have been intended to harm or intimidate a known gang member living in the same neighborhood of Uppsala, Swedish Television (SVT) reported. "The violence is inhumane, incomprehensible and limitless," SVT quoted Catarina Bowall, commanding officer at the Uppsala police, as saying at a press conference. Late on Wednesday, two young men were killed in separate shootings in two suburbs of Stockholm. The police believe that both incidents are linked to criminal gangs. Although most of the 42 people shot to death so far this year were members of criminal gangs, citizens are becoming increasingly worried as at least seven of those killed in the last year are believed to have become collateral victims, SVT reported. A man walks past a hotel in Stockholm, capital of Sweden, July 26, 2023. (Photo by Wei Xuechao/Xinhua) Since last October, a further 11 people with no known or suspected ties to criminal gangs have been injured in shootings, SVT reported. "It's bad enough that the gangs shoot and kill each other, but when completely innocent people end up in the line of fire, it's absolutely horrific," said Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson at a press conference following a shooting at a pub on Sept. 21. Ordinary citizens are also getting fed up with the increasingly indiscriminate violence. "I've lived here for 20 years, but in recent years it has become messy," a witness to the pub shooting in Sandviken, some 190 kilometers northwest of Stockholm, told Dagens Nyheter newspaper. Following another recent fatal shooting in a suburb of Stockholm, a witness told Aftonbladet newspaper that she was living in fear. People wait to cross a road in Stockholm, capital of Sweden, July 26, 2023. (Photo by Wei Xuechao/Xinhua) "This is awful. There have been so many reports of shootings in the area and I'm now afraid to walk my dog," she said. In recent decades, Sweden has witnessed an increase in gun violence. In a study of 23 European countries released in 2021, the Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention found that Sweden had moved from the lowest number of shootings to the highest during the years 2000 to 2019. The trend has since continued and ahead of last year's election, a poll of 25,000 individuals revealed that Swedish people ranked crime as the most important issue. This sentiment had not been seen since the late 1970s, SVT reported. There have been more than 130 bombings in Sweden since January and in the first six months this year alone, there were more bombings than last year's total of 90. On Wednesday, Sweden's government held its second crisis meeting in nine days about the gang violence, which the national police commissioner has described as "unprecedented." "The situation is very serious. Bombings are extraordinarily bad as many innocent people are affected," Minister for Justice Gunnar Strommer told SVT following the meeting. A police car is seen among pedestrians in central Stockholm, capital of Sweden, Aug. 17, 2023. (Photo by Wei Xuechao/Xinhua) Among the measures, funding for the judicial system is being increased considerably and a new national explosives registry will be established. Harder penalties and harsher sentences for gun crimes and the illegal possession of explosives will soon apply, and police and social services would be able to exchange information more easily. Criminal gangs are, however, a headache not just for Sweden's judicial system, as they are also expanding their activities abroad, such as Costa del Sol in southern Spain, where nearly a thousand Swedish criminals have relocated, a police spokesperson told SVT in July. Authorities in Sweden's western neighbor Norway, where only four gun killings occurred last year, are getting increasingly worried after noticing that Swedish criminal gangs are expanding their operations there. The Nationwide figure could be a rogue blip, it is after all just a single months data. But if the trend is confirmed by other house price indices over the coming months, it is going to lead to rapid reworking of some of the more alarming forecasts of house price slumps this year. The UK market is now down only 3.3% on a year ago in cash terms, though much more when inflation and earnings growth are taken into account. It has its challenges being listed in London, Raza said. We could have chosen to list elsewhere but at the time we werent really at the right scale. Its a situation well continue to monitor and well see what indexes are appropriate for us. But Quin told the Standard: As part of people reporting into someone else, I wanted to make sure they understood the importance of sanctions regimes and compliance and risk matters but it was in the course of my duties as a director to report that. The reality is that the situation since last year has worsened, not only in terms of the number of customers who are indebted, but also in terms of debt per customer. Thats why we believe we need to take action to help the customers who are most in need. But Julian is Australian, not American. He is a publisher working in the UK, not a US source. He is in London, not Washington DC. What WikiLeaks published is of undeniable public interest, but there is no public interest defence under the US Espionage Act. US prosecutors argue that because Julian was publishing from Britain, and is not an American, constitutional free speech protections do not apply to him. They claim US law applies to people in Britain but US rights do not. As she fought Russia to a standstill in Bakhmut, Ukraine simultaneously prepared a new army for a counter-offensive to regain lost land. That much-vaunted offensive hasnt developed at the speed that many armchair generals in the West hoped. As an ex-soldier myself, I think the expectations placed upon Ukraine were unreasonable. Military capability is often spoken of as the orchestra of war. In this instance, the orchestra consisted of people who had never previously played an instrument individually, let alone as an ensemble and, indeed, without much of the usual percussion. Johnson was just 23 when she made these works and their energy and distinctiveness is remarkable. And I Have My Business is dense, rich in colour and pattern, the surface almost damaged by the intensity of her application of the pastel and gouache. I Came to Dance is sparer, the womans abstracted outline captured in a few lines, with just a hip and thigh and part of her face defined in more detail. Bold zigzagging lines cut through both pictures. SHENZHEN, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese market has shown a growing preference for Turkish home appliances in recent years. "Turkish products such as electric coffee pots, ovens, stoves and grills are gaining significant popularity among Chinese consumers, especially in recent years when the trade in home appliances has grown rapidly," said Aytac Soylu, a Turkish businessman. Soylu first arrived in China in 2006, bringing with him not only Turkish coffee but also the tradition of handmade copperware that has been cherished for centuries. However, he soon noticed a growing demand for convenient electric coffee pots among Chinese customers. As a result, he decided to join hands with his Chinese friend Li Linsheng in 2012 to establish an online store of Turkish specialty small appliances on China's leading e-commerce platform Taobao. The store dominated the Turkish specialty products category, achieving 80 percent year-on-year sales growth in 2022. "Turkiye was one of the first countries to support the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China and Turkiye have been connected since the ancient Silk Road, and now they are closely linked again with the BRI," Soylu said. Soylu's business success reflects the broader collaboration between China and Turkiye in the home appliance industry. According to Chinese customs data, China imported 52.06 million U.S. dollars worth of white goods from Turkiye in 2022. Among these imports, refrigerators and freezers were the primary products. Industry insiders believe that Turkish home appliance companies see significant potential for industrial research and development as well as market collaboration between the two countries, and they aspire to further expand their cooperation with China. Beko, which is a subsidiary of the Turkish company Koc Holding, has established its own flagship stores on Chinese e-commerce platforms, such as Suning.com, Tmall and JD.com, selling refrigerators, washing machines and dryers. As of September 2023, it has opened 946 offline stores in Chinese cities including Shanghai, Beijing, Kunming and Zhuhai. Leading Turkish white goods firm Vestel has also established subsidiaries in Shanghai and Shenzhen. Meanwhile, Chinese home appliance companies are also ramping up their investments in Turkiye. Haier Smart Home Co., Ltd. has established clothes dryer and dishwasher factories in Turkiye, with a total investment exceeding 85 million euros, and is poised to attain an annual production capacity of over 2.5 million units. There are issues with the show jumping backwards in time to fill in Sys backstory, as the scenes in the past tend to drag. But also the novelty and excitment from when it first emerged has worn off it may still have va va voom but has lost a little of its oh la la and has begun to feel more like a procedural show: like White Collar with a French accent. We did receive a really lovely email from them, after theyve watched the show to say that happy is not the right word, Halfpenny added. But they were they felt very pleased that theyve been listened to and honored and represented in the way that they would have liked. So that was that that meant a lot to us. Unsurprisingly, it is on childhood that he shines the brightest. The trauma that we experience as children stays with us all the way through life. Parents need to hold their children, he tells me, as mammals impart their paternal love through touch. Its a far cry from what were used to here in Britain. We Brits are cold as fish and thats how we like it, said one column in this paper recently. A mother rat licks her infants as soon as they are born, and the way she licks them impacts how their baby rat brains develop, Mate says. Im all in favour of office working, preferring to maintain a clear distinction between my home and professional life and certain that this paper is all the better for the ad hoc collaboration, overheard ideas and pub bonding sessions facilitated by our shared workspace. We were in a small place on the coast, we worked from a cafe watching the ocean, it was great weather and we could go surfing before work and take our scooter and go exploring afterwards. For dinner we would buy this really fresh, really cheap, just-caught fish from a stall and cook it for ourselves. With over 50,000 followers, her posts include the quotes, I like to imagine strangers falling in love with me over a watercolour painting, as well as My fathers failings are not my own, over a cat contemplatively looking at a bra. Despite not previously considering herself a yearning poster, she believes that the rise of this type of content is because, Some of us dont want the thing itself. We want to enjoy and be swallowed by longing. Its a break from despair, and a connection to hope. If I wish to do this (or for this), there is a chance that it exists, and if it exists, then I have an opportunity to have it. Its strange to be categorised into something I dont consider myself to be. Like yes, I yearn - but more than that, I am fascinated by my life. On Thursday, she said: My findings in volume one alone show clearly that, however well-intentioned some of those who advocated for child migration may have been, the policy of child migration and the systems under which it operated were deeply flawed. The second volume of findings reinforces this view. Detective Chief Inspector Laura Semple from the Mets Specialist Crime Command said: Our investigation has already made good progress in piecing together the events that led to the attack on Max and we are now in a position to ask the public for their help in identifying these two males. Police said they have arrested four people in connection with the fatal knifing around 11pm on Sunday night at Olympic Way, the walkway leading up to the famous stadium. 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 15% of all orders with The Perfume Shop birthday discount - VIP Rewards Members 20% off everything with The Body Shop discount code Azerbaijan strongly condemns and rejects the statement of Nikol Pashinyan, Prime Minister of Armenia, dated September 28, 2023, on the alleged ethnic cleansing of Armenian residents from the Garabagh region of Azerbaijan, Azernews reports, citing the statement of the Foreign Ministry. Prime Minister of Armenia not only backtracks from his statement of September 21 that there is no threat to local Armenians from Azerbaijan, but also, with this alarming narrative, aims at disrupting Azerbaijans efforts in humanitarian assistance and reintegration process, and undermines possible prospects of peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Armenias leadership fails to notice how the central Government institutions of Azerbaijan have expeditiously started to implement necessary humanitarian support measures and to address the immediate needs of the Armenian residents of the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan. It is well-known to the Prime Minister of Pashinyan that the current departure of Armenian residents of the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan is their personal and individual decision, and it has nothing to do with forced relocation. If some segments of Armenian residents do not want to live and obey Azerbaijans legislation and rule, we cannot force them to do so. On the contrary, we call on Armenians not to leave their places of residence and be part of multiethnic Azerbaijan. In order to establish peace and security in the region Armenia must stop the obstacles vis-a-vis the reintegration process of local Armenians, and focus on the successful conclusion of the negotiation process on the peace treaty based on territorial integrity and sovereignty of both countries. WARSAW Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Poland is considering imposing border controls with other countries including Germany, a spokesman for the Polish ruling party said on Wednesday. "I know that this type of analysis is underway because Germany is very often the destination for illegal migrants," Rafal Bochenek, spokesman for the Law and Justice party, told the country's TVP television. He added that Poland is also concerned about migrants coming to Poland from Germany. "We want to ensure the safety of Poles. This is a priority for us," he said. Last year, Germany accepted around 100,000 illegal migrants, and almost 70,000 this year, according to Bochenek. His remarks came after Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki told an election rally on Monday that he has ordered checks on vehicles at the Polish-Slovak border, to stop migrants from crossing Poland on their way to Germany via the so-called Balkan route. Although these countries are part of the border-free Schengen area, German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said on Tuesday Germany will enforce stronger border controls with Poland and the Czech Republic to help fight human trafficking. She said: There was a chap got there two minutes before we did from Northumberland National Park, and he was the first one to see it. And he was obviously straight on the phone saying no, this is sabotage. So somebodys come up there, with a chainsaw, at night. Dr Woznitza told the Standard: The quicker we pick up on any potential anomalies on a chest X-ray, the better. We review X-ray results as quickly as possible, but if this technology can help us prioritise who would most benefit from a rapid review of their X-rays, this would help improve outcomes for our patients. Diseases such as measles, mumps and rubella can make children seriously ill, but they are preventable, and millions of vaccination doses are given every year to offer the best protection so please check your child is up to date with their vaccines and contact your GP surgery to catch up with any missed doses as soon as possible. Dripping and crumbling ceilings and walls in robing rooms, court corridors and court rooms along with the health hazards of ripped carpets and chairs and broken and dirty washrooms sends an unwelcome signal to both criminal barristers, judges and all those caught up in the justice system that their working lives are not valued. I am confident our little boy wasnt doing anything he shouldnt have been on the escalator, we were right next to him, and it was such a frightening experience to see him suddenly trapped like that. Beard has long been an advocate for getting all kinds of people into Classics, but thinks that people like Boris Johnson, who is known to slip into Ancient Greek in his speeches, dont help the image of Classics as a public school boys club. When kids who feel that theyre not privileged, and they hear that very kind of posh, conservative view of the classics, mouthed by the Tory PM, it kind of puts them off the subject a bit, she said. Half of the comments are very lovely and supportive and the other side are very threatening, that somehow Im part of this global agenda that is trying to bring down men and I hate all men, and I need to watch my back and be very careful because there are certain people who are threatening to come after me, Ms Evans said. They breached the third layer of the Russian defences around Verbove in the Zaporizhzhia province, according to some military experts, but it was not clear if they had succeeded in holding their positions. Russia carried out more air strikes early today, targeting the regions of Mykolaiv and Odesa in the south and Kirovohrad. When we import gas from somewhere else around the world, it comes here with three or four times the emission that you would get from getting it here at home so yes I do think its the right thing to do Rishi Sunak Criminal barristers have specialist training to prosecute and defend the most serious and sensitive cases in court and want to work with government to maintain and improve the quality of justice delivered, so in return government must do its part in getting the resources to where they are needed. BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- China's Supreme People's Procuratorate (SPP) has ordered the arrest of Zheng Hong, former vice chairman of the Standing Committee of the Chongqing Municipal People's Congress, for suspected bribe-taking, the SPP said Thursday. Zheng was also former chairman of the Chongqing Municipal Federation of Trade Unions. Zheng'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. The term was coined by a woman named Alana in the late 1990s, who started an online forum for others like her who were experiencing loneliness and unable to find romantic or sexual partners. It was intended to be a supportive environment for people to share their experiences. This is ridiculous, we live here, Ms Williams can be heard to say, adding: Go and have a look, this is ridiculous. You were already following us, as soon as we made that turn We havent gone through a red light. But the overall cost of the railway should never have been as much as it was, as I say because it was designed to operate at a speed which is not appropriate for this country. Photographs showed the tree, which is in an isolated spot almost a mile from the nearest road, on its side with its trunk resting on the wall and surrounded by blue and white police tape. Spray paint could be seen just below the cut in the trunk. We are setting our sights to other countries with better wages and more welcoming rules for migrant workers. Many other colleagues of ours share the same sentiment and have started the process of taking examinations and applying for jobs overseas. She also received a public apology from Wootton, who said: Having looked at the footage, I can see how inappropriate my reaction to his totally unacceptable remarks appears to be and want to be clear that I was in no way amused by the comments I should have intervened immediately to challenge offensive and misogynistic remarks. Prior to the festival, people create altars to commemorate the deceased. Intricate cloths are placed on the altar, which are then usually decorated with candles, flowers, fruits, and snacks such as tamales, as well as water to quench the thirst of the souls. Three people, including a fourteen-year-old girl, have been killed by a gunman who opened fire in a flat and then a medical centre classroom in the Dutch port city of Rotterdam, police said. We can confirm Pvt King is very happy to be on his way home, and he is very much looking forward to reuniting with his family, the official said. This photo shows a view of Hongyadong scenic area, southwest China's Chongqing, Aug. 3, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Chan) There are two narratives about the Chinese economy in Western media reports. One is "collapse," the other is the "China threat." There is a logical contradiction between the two, Laurent Michelon pointed out. "If China is collapsing, how can it pose an existential threat to the West?" BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The false narratives of Western media about the Chinese economy are defamation -- "the weapon of choice to avoid competition," French essayist and entrepreneur Laurent Michelon told Xinhua in a recent interview. There are two contradictory narratives about the Chinese economy in Western media reports, the first of which is "collapse," Michelon said, adding that with each failure of a Chinese company, the Western media seize the opportunity to "announce the collapse of the industry in question, or even the collapse of the entire country's economy." Despite the rather favorable economic data published by China or the IMF, the Western media "still try to portray China as a place where doing business is no longer profitable and as an economy in the process of collapsing," Michelon said. Tourists visit the Fuzi (Confucius) Temple scenic area in Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province, Aug. 18, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Bo) The other narrative is the "China threat," he said. "The official narrative, emanating from Washington for several years, which must be echoed by all Western media, is that China poses an existential threat, a systemic rival to the West." There is a logical contradiction between the two narratives, Michelon pointed out. "If China is collapsing, how can it pose an existential threat to the West?" Moreover, when the media are left with no choice but to report positive information about China, "they must always qualify it by adding 'but at what cost?' at the end of the headline," he said. Living in China for about 25 years, Michelon, along with his contacts and business partners in various fields, has observed a recent resurgence of investments in China by major Western companies, including Tesla, Intel, Audi AG, BNP Paribas Asset Management, among others. "It's quite remarkable for a so-called 'economy in decline' that Western media claims," Michelon said. Such claims are so familiar, Michelon lamented. "In 2013, some Western people and media had already claimed that China's economy was collapsing, but China's GDP doubled from 2013 to 2022." He said certain people in the West are obsessed with badmouthing China's economy, but the reality always slaps them in the face. "They are like repeatedly uttering a spell, hoping repetition would create a self-fulfilling prophecy." Few European journalists would "tell the real China to readers," and even if they do, the report will most likely be blocked by editors, he sighed. "That's why some Western journalists who are willing to tell the truth eventually left the media." The Chinese economy possesses strong resilience and recovering capabilities. The economic and financial media in the West need to "stick to the reality of the Chinese economy," the scholar noted. The women - four of whom were Vietnamese and two from Iraq - hid for hours in an HGV loaded with boxes of bananas in northern France, in a bid to reach the UK or Ireland. In response, the British rocker said that he had no plans of selling it, and said should it eventually be sold he would rather the profits go to charity. It read: The last couple of days I foolishly and thoughtlessly let a trip down Suits memory lane distract me from the very real and ongoing fight everyone in @sagaftra continues to wage in our membership realistic 21st century compensation and protections, he wrote. The course description explains: This module suggests that the lyrics of Taylor Swift can and should be read as literature. In doing so, we will pay close attention to formal elements such as rhyme and word choice. We will also analyze her songs with the help of key texts in critical theory and discuss the political, national, and historical contexts of her work. British scientists are planning to build the worlds most powerful laser, which they claim would be able to produce a beam many millions of billions of times more powerful than the suns rays. According to Flashpoint, Ramsomed.vc emerged in August 2023 and has so far demanded sums between 50,000 and 200,000 Euro from its victims. The site suggests the threats involve proof of companies breaking of GDPR rules, which could lead to fines even greater than the ransom demands. AI is all over our products today its behind the Fall Detection on the (Apple) Watch, its behind Crash Detection, its behind Afib (atrial fibrillation) detection, its behind the ECG, its predictive typing on iPhone its literally everywhere on our products and of course were also researching generative AI as well, so yes we have a lot going on. BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping on Thursday called on the nation to firm up confidence and strive in unity in the relentless endeavor toward building a strong China and realizing national rejuvenation. "Our strength comes from unity and confidence is more valuable than gold," said Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, at a grand reception held in Beijing to celebrate the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. Xi said the future is bright and the nation should continue to surmount difficulties and march forward. Li Qiang presided over the reception. Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi and Han Zheng attended the event together with around 800 Chinese and foreign guests. TRIPOLI, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) on Wednesday highlighted the humanitarian needs in eastern Libya hit by recent deadly floods. "Humanitarian needs remain critical. UN agencies found that half of the 78 health facilities assessed in Derna and parts of Al-Jabar Al-Akhdar are either partially or totally non-functioning. Rushing floodwaters also destroyed water networks and sewage pipes," UNSMIL said in a statement. Many families displaced by the floods are sheltering in schools as local authorities work hard to find solutions for their housing needs, the statement said, stressing the need to urgently address the situation of displaced people staying in schools before the start of the school year. "UN agencies and partners, who were on the ground in the affected areas within hours of the floods, are providing safe drinking water, medical supplies, hygiene kits, school supplies, blankets, food items and psychosocial first-aid services to people, as well as supporting the establishment of six field hospitals," it said. During a visit to the city of Derna, which suffered more destruction in the floods than any other city in the area, Georgette Gagnon, the UN resident and humanitarian coordinator in Libya, highlighted progress in ongoing efforts to remove debris, rehabilitate roads and deliver humanitarian assistance to affected people. In meetings with local authorities, Gagnon called for full access by humanitarian workers and stronger coordination among relevant stakeholders. He also stressed the need to accelerate early recovery efforts to advance longer-term reconstruction. "What people in Derna and surrounding areas have experienced is tragic beyond words. All the displaced families I met said they have one wish: For their lives to go back to normal. The outpouring of unity, solidarity and support shown by Libyans from all over the country gives me hope this will happen soon," Gagnon said. On Sept. 10, Mediterranean storm Daniel triggered the worst floods in decades. Thousands of people were killed or went missing, while the region's infrastructure was severely damaged. United Nations agencies have appealed for 71.4 million U.S. dollars to meet the immediate needs of 250,000 affected people in the next three months. Ciuca, at EARC: A solidly built national and collective resistance is vital to our efforts to protect people A "solidly built" collective national resistance is vital for efforts to protect people and ensure an effective policy of deterrence and defence in the context of the challenges posed by the Russian aggression in Ukraine, Senate President Nicolae Ciuca said in a video message to participants at the Euro-Atlantic Resilience Forum on Thursday. "Increasing our resilience has never been a more important issue, given the challenges faced in the context of the Russian aggression in Ukraine. It is clear that a solidly built national and collective resistance is vital to our efforts to protect our people and ensure an effective policy of deterrence and defence. For more than 15 years now, starting with Russia's invasion of Georgia in 2008, the illegal annexation of Crimea and culminating in the war against Ukraine in February 2022, Russia has proven to be the most dangerous threat not only to Romania's security, but to the security of NATO as a whole," Ciuca said at the opening of the event, held in the Senate plenary hall. According to the President of the Senate, the Euro-Atlantic Resilience Centre is a "strong and successful" Romanian initiative, which has proven in a short time that it can contribute significantly and substantially to strengthening the resilience of the EU and NATO, as well as its member states and partners. "The Euro-Atlantic Resilience Centre makes a significant contribution to building the resilience of NATO, the European Union and their member states. I welcome the invitation extended to the Centre by NATO ACT (Allied Command Transformation) to present its Euro-Atlantic vision of societal resilience at the NATO seminar in Riga in April 2023. I am proud to announce that Romania, through the Euro-Atlantic Resilience Centre (E-ARC), will host the first NATO Resilience Civilian Expert Course in Bucharest this year. I know that the Centre is already working with NATO on resilience assessment and support missions in different states in the Black Sea region," Ciuca said. He added that the EARC is also an important pillar in supporting Romania's foreign policy efforts and the EU's objectives of strengthening the resilience of the states in the region. "The Centre contributes to the work of the EU Civilian Support Mission to Moldova, whose mission is to strengthen the resilience of the security sector in the area of crisis management and to counter hybrid threats. Top Romanian experts will be in Kyiv this autumn to provide training programmes for the European Union Advisory Mission to Ukraine. At the same time, Ukrainian experts are already involved in the Centre's activities as associate experts," said Ciuca. The Euro-Atlantic Resilience Forum, the 2nd edition, is an event organised by the Euro-Atlantic Resilience Centre, having as guests President of the Romanian Senate Nicolae Ciuca (video message), Minister of Development, Public Works and Administration Adrian Vestea, Minister of Environment Mircea Fechet, Secretary General of the Government Mircea Abrudean, Head of NATO's Enablement and Resilience Defence Policy and Planning Division Hasit Thankey. Ciuca, at EARC: It is vital to obtain political decision to open EU accession negotiations for Moldova and Ukraine Senate President Nicolae Ciuca told participants at the Euro-Atlantic Resilience Forum on Thursday that Romania will continue to actively support the Republic of Moldova, including its "irreversible" European course, saying that it is "vital" to obtain as soon as possible the political decision to open accession negotiations with Moldova and Ukraine. "Our country will continue to actively support the Republic of Moldova, including its irreversible European course. It is vital to obtain as soon as possible the political decision to open negotiations on the accession of the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine to the European Union. It is very clear: a safer Ukraine, a safer Republic of Moldova bring more security to Romania," said Ciuca. He added that an important component of resilience is the ability to resist disinformation activities. "An important component of resilience is the ability to resist disinformation activities. The massive wave of disinformation, driven by the propaganda that came with Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine and which has allowed the rebirth of nationalism, is a growing danger to Romanian society. A joint effort of national and international institutions, but also of citizens, is needed to counteract the increasingly harmful effects of disinformation, which endangers even the security of states. In conclusion, it is clear that resilience is essential for states and international institutions. Only by working together can we overcome these complicated times and protect our citizens," concluded Ciuca. Copy of Cantemir's music book presented to Romanian gov't A rare copy of "Cartea stiintei muzicii dupa felul literelor" (The book of the science of music according to the letters), written by Dimitrie Cantemir, whose original version is in Turkey, was presented to the Romanian government at a ceremony on Wednesday evening at the Romanian Athenaeum in Bucharest, told Agerpres. Turkish ambassador to Romania Ozgur Kivanc Altan, who mentioned the centennial of the Turkish Republic, 145 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties between Turkey and Romania and, at the same time, the 350th birth anniversary of Cantemir, said that Cantemir's life represents "the personification of our common history." "Polymath, historian, geographer, musicologist, architect and consummate politician, he went down in the memory of both Turkey and Romania," said the Turkish diplomat. He praised the personality of Cantemir, "the polyglot specialising in Ottoman Turkish and Arabic languages and literatures," "a brilliant composer of Ottoman classical music," who "contributed significantly to the preservation of Turkish music by devising an original system of notation, with which he wrote the 'Book of the Science of Music,' as well as the one who was "one of the first historians of the Ottoman Empire, the author of the book 'The history of the growth and decay of the Othman empire.'" "Today, a copy of the book will be handed over to her Excellency Mrs Raluca Turcan, the minister of culture, on the occasion of the 'Dimitrie Cantemir Cultural Year' 2023. (...) As you can see, the ties between Turkey and Romania have never been limited to the political and economic spheres only. Our ties have always included numerous fields and at the highest level," said the Turkish ambassador. In her turn, Culture Minister Raluca Turcan highlighted the importance of the event, which highlights a masterpiece of cultural heritage, a valuable historical resource for all those interested in the study and history of music. She added that the Romanian-Turkish cultural ties have experienced a wide development through a series of events in the field of music, literature and arts, organised in both countries, recalling Romania's annual presence at the Istanbul International Book Fair, which marks another point of reference for the development of ties between the two countries. Turcanu voiced her conviction that the deep ties between the two countries will develop even more in the future. The ceremony, organised by the Ministry of Culture, the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey in Bucharest and the Yunus Emre Turkish Cultural Institute, was followed by a piano concert by Evren Kutlay performing "From the Sultan to the Queen," created in 1876 and given to Queen Elisabeta of Romania by Sultan Abdulhamid II. The event was organised to mark the centennial of the Republic of Turkey and the Dimitrie Cantemir Cultural Year. The original of Cantemir's book is with the Turkish State Archives in Istanbul. According to historian Theodor E. Ulieriu-Rostas, the book is part of the Ottoman tradition, but it also proposes several innovations, including a musical notation system based on the Arabic alphabet. The treatise is accompanied by a collection of 355 instrumental pieces notated in Cantemir's system, which represents the "capital source" of knowledge of the music of the Ottoman masters from the 17th century. Nine of these are the author's own compositions. ForMin Odobescu: Resilience at sea has a major civilian component Resilience at sea has a major civilian component, Romania's Foreign Minister Luminita Odobescu told the opening of the 2nd edition of the Euro-Atlantic Resilience Forum on Thursday in Bucharest. "We will use every opportunity to firmly condemn, in the strongest possible terms, the attack on Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and our position on Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine will not change," said the head of the Romanian diplomacy. She added that "the war revealed Russia's strategic goal of having the Black Sea region in its sphere of influence, not only as a gateway to other regions, but also as a means to maintain a world power status." "This is the reason why, more than ever, resilience at sea is of utmost importance and it has undeniable consequences on land. Resilience at sea is not only about military campaigns; it also has a major civilian component, as the Black Sea is a critical supply and transit hub for a wide array of goods. One of the most cynical hybrid tactics used by Russia is weaponising food. It is breaking the basic principle of freedom of navigation. We are not talking about impeding the transport of luxury goods, but of basic agricultural products. Romania acts coherently, in close coordination with its neighbours and strategic partners," added Odobescu. Minister of Justice, Alina Gorghiu, urges parents to talk with their children, after reading several essays sent by young people in the contest "Laws also apply on the Internet" which revealed the traumas that they go through following cyberbullying. "Parents, please talk to your children! We can help them! There are things that I discovered with great sadness reading the essays sent to the Ministry of Justice by high school students, as part of the 'Laws also apply on the Internet' contest. The way cyberbullying affects them, the traumas they go through or the fact that their identity is stolen online... heartbreaking. They are just children... who need our help! I want every child in Romania to know that they are not alon,." Gorghiu wrote on Thursday on Facebook, agerpres reports. She quoted from several essays received from high school students in the country: "The question of Luca, 10th grade from Suceava: 'Is everything allowed online that the law does not prohibit?' opens a debate about limits. Camelia, twelfth grader from Bucharest, goes even further and sounds the alarm: 'Cyberbullying takes bullying to a superlative level, following the victim even when he/she leaves the context in which the psychological violence occurs, for example school'. The courage that Francesca-Denisa, a 10th grader from Focsani has - to say what happened, because she knows that 'there are many cases of this kind that teenagers face' - is exceptional. Matei, a 10th grader from Bucharest, also emphasizes that "bullying on the Internet is dangerous. It is dangerous because it can make you feel alone and without self-esteem..." Maria, 10th grader from Constanta, talks about the harsh rules of the internet: "Eat or you will be eaten. The Internet is not a toy'". Medic: Avem paciente care nasc si la varsta de 12 ani, si la 16, si la 17 ani / 45 la suta din nasterile in randul fetelor sub 15 ani din UE sunt din Romania Nearly 88,000 people enter Romania on Wednesday, including over 11,000 Ukrainians As many as 88,067 people entered Romania on Wednesday through the border crossing points, including 11,154 Ukrainian citizens, the General Border Police Inspectorate (IGPF) informs in a press release sent to AGERPRES. Through the border crossing points throughout the country, approximately 176,000 people, Romanian and foreign citizens, and over 48,160 means of transport were checked at the border points nationwide (on both the inbound and the outbound). As of 10 February 2022 (pre-conflict period), 6,198,286 Ukrainian citizens entered Romania. The border police found 86 illegal acts (52 offences and 34 contraventions) committed by both Romanian and foreign citizens. Fines worth 15,480 RON were issued and the value of the seized undeclared goods amounts to approximately 426,000 RON. As many as 22 foreign citizens who did not meet the legal requirements were denied entry to the country, and 11 Romanian citizens were also not allowed to leave the country for various legal reasons. Romania will become the largest gas producer in Europe, with the exploitation of gas from the Black Sea, and all these investments must be protected and there should be a predictable climate for investors, the Minister of Energy, Sebastian Burduja, declared in a video message at the Euro-Atlantic Forum for Resilience, on Thursday. "All these investments must be protected, they must be safe, and there should also be a predictable climate for investors. At the moment, we are working on the final draft of the offshore wind law, which will be presented to the Government for approval in the next two weeks and we hope that, by December, the Parliament will adopt this very important legislation that will give us the opportunity to start exploiting the colossal potential that Romania has in the field of offshore wind. The World Bank told us that we have about 75 gigawatts in wind potential offshore. At least some of this quantity we should try to exploit and use by 2030. Needless to say, for all this to happen, for all this investment to run its course, we have to make sure that the Black Sea on the Romanian side is safe. The Ministry of Energy will continue to be actively involved in these issues related to the protection of current and future investments, giving investors again this predictability, this confidence that they can invest in the Black Sea in a way to guarantee them the return of their investment," Burduja pointed out, agerpres reports. The Romanian official said that the Black Sea region is important not only because of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, but also because of its energy potential. The Euro-Atlantic Center for Resilience is organizing, on Thursday and Friday, at the Palace of the Parliament, the second edition of the "Euro-Atlantic Resilience Forum", in which Romanian officials, as well as foreign experts from excellence and expertise structures, of the European Union (EU) and NATO, are expected to participate. BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Cyberspace Administration of China on Thursday issued a document containing draft protocols for the regulation and boosting of cross-border flows of internet data, aiming to solicit public opinion. All providers would be asked to submit relevant security appraisals if the personal information data they offer overseas exceeds 1 million individuals, according to the document. Cross-border flows of data generated from activities such as international trade, academic cooperation, multinational manufacturing and marketing would be exempted from relevant security appraisals, individual information-flow contracts and information protection certificates, so long as the data does not include personal or important information, according to the draft protocols. The document also specifies other exemption scenarios, including the provision of personal information overseas as necessitated by an individual's cross-border shopping, flight booking or hotel reservation contracts, or the provision of personal information overseas that is essential to the protection of an individual's life, health or property during an emergency. Shalva Papuashvili: Georgia, almost only active supporter of Ukraine without economic and security guarantees Georgia is almost the only country in the alliance that supports Ukraine without security and economic guarantees from NATO and the EU, while having two regions occupied by Russia and Russian troops stationed 30 km from the capital Tbilisi, Georgian Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili told an interview with AGERPRES on Tuesday in Bucharest. Without the security and protection guarantees that most countries supporting Ukraine enjoy, escalation with Russia would be unwise, would contradict the policy we have been pursuing for over a decade and, most importantly, would have no effect on Russia. Georgia represents 0.3 percent of Russia's economy and Russia has often used the economic embargo against Georgia - closing the border with Georgia, etc. - because they do not care about the impact of Georgia's economy on Russia, it is marginal, explained the Georgian Parliament Speaker. A victim of Russian aggression in 2008, Georgia has not adopted sanctions against Russia under a policy of so-called "strategic patience", but is trying to ensure that its territory is not used to circumvent international sanctions. Everyone understands that without giving security guarantees to a country, without giving economic guarantees to a country, one cannot expect it to risk its security and the economic situation of its people, the Georgian official explained. The Speaker of the Georgian Parliament, Shalva Papuashvili, visited Romania on Monday and Tuesday, where he discussed with Romanian officials including his country's aspirations for Euro-Atlantic integration. Authorities in Tbilisi hope to receive the status of candidate country for EU membership this year, after Brussels decided last year that Georgia must carry out further reforms to take this step. A judge from the Bucharest Tribunal decided on Thursday that the brothers Andrew and Tristan Tate, tried for human trafficking and rape, can leave the Capital city and the Ilfov County, being free to move around Romania. In August, the Tate brothers escaped house arrest, being placed under judicial control, with several prohibitions, including not to exceed the territorial limit of Ilfov County and the Municipality of Bucharest, except with the prior approval of the preliminary chamber judge or of the court, agerpres reports. The two brothers asked the court on Thursday for permission to leave Romania, with the obligation not to leave the territorial limits of Europe. A magistrate from the court rejected their request, but gave them permission to move throughout Romania.During the investigation, the Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) prosecutors seized several assets owned by the Tate brothers in Romania: 15 plots of land and buildings located within the counties of Ilfov, Prahova and Brasov; 15 luxury cars; 14 luxury watches; 2 ingots and a medal, stocks in four companies; sums of money and cryptocurrencies. He was Ground Zero. Tom Papa Ray was a founding member of community radio station KDHX (88.1 FM) and had a show on the air almost since the switch was first turned on in 1987. When he was fired in February, it set off a chain of events that has left the station reeling and in turmoil. Twelve members of the all-volunteer force of DJs have been fired. Three others have resigned in sympathy. Four more including Al Swacker on Thursday have gone on what they term a strike, refusing to return to the station until the show hosts who have been let go or left are allowed back on the air. Nearly one-quarter of the 80-member on-air staff that was there one month ago is gone. Ray, at the eye of the storm, says he is humbled by all of the support. But he is also angry. Shortly after he was released, the station announced that he had been let go because of a long history of bullying, aggression and harassment toward certain members of the KDHX staff and even some board members. That made him mad. I question how one can bully and harass via email. One can certainly be blunt, one can certainly point out failures and inept management, says Ray, who also owns the Vintage Vinyl record store in the Delmar Loop. But in 43 years of operating my store, I have never had a single employee accuse me of that. Quite the contrary, in fact. They have very warm memories about working at Vintage Vinyl and the benign nature of management. After 10 DJs were fired Sept. 22, the stations president of the board of directors, Gary Pierson, implied that they were dismissed because they exhibited racism and sexism. Later, he said they were let go for being vocal and disruptive in their support of Ray and two other DJs, Drea Stein and Andy Coco. Pierson has said Stein and Coco were fired for telling listeners to defund the station in support of Ray, which Stein and Coco deny. The racism and sexism charges, Pierson said, were actually directed at Ray. And that made him madder. Im about as racist and sexist as Gary Pierson is a 90-pound ballerina or the worlds greatest astrophysicist. He is neither, Ray says. And he was just getting started. Ray, who is white, said his show, The Soul Selector, was one of the very few shows on the station that attracted an adult Black audience. He said the sales manager of a local urban radio station introduced him to an out-of-town guest as the owner of our heritage store. As someone who has located his store at that rare thing in St. Louis, a racial neutral zone, I take deep offense at (Piersons) slander and defamation, Ray says. Ray was let go from the station after butting heads for years with executive director Kelly Wells. She uses what I call politically correct human-resource rhetorical mumble (expletive), he said. She uses phrases like, We are initializing our commitments. Wells declined to comment for this story, other than to reiterate that Ray was dismissed due to a long history of bullying, aggression and harassment. The conflict between Ray and Wells came to a head in February. John McHenry, another of the stations founders, a member of the St. Louis Radio Hall of Fame and a KDHX DJ for three decades until his retirement, died in August 2022. Under Wells management, the station made little or no public mention of his death. Ray thought a tribute of some sort should be made. They went back and forth on email he claims he hasnt seen her in person in four years, since he says he first started pointing out her failures and eventually she suggested they meet with a neutral facilitator. Ray bristled at that idea, and shortly after that he was fired. The reaction from the listeners and much of the staff to his and the other firings shows that the actions have alienated the community, he says. KDHX is right now what I would call the equivalent of stage 4 cancer, he says. He suggests one cure: It can only start with the removal of Kelly Wells, some of her paid lackey yes-men who are earning the most money theyve ever earned and the current board, including Mr. Pierson. Meanwhile, the station is on the ropes and bleeding. The implosion has come just as the listener-supported station is holding one of its fund drives. It is arguable that at one time St. Louis had the finest single community station in the United States, a 42,000-watt signal devoted to providing a noncommercial alternative, whose mission statement was to support nonprofit arts groups and to promote and champion St. Louis musical legacy and ongoing musical scene, Ray says. That is no longer the case. NASHVILLE, Tenn. For months, Carlton Clemons endured crippling pain from a rotting wisdom tooth. He couldn't sleep, barely ate and relied on painkillers to get by. The 67-year-old from Nashville, Tennessee, could not afford to see a dentist on the $1,300-a-month his family gets in Social Security and disability payments. So he waited for the state to roll out a program this year that offers dental care to the more than 650,000 Medicaid recipients like him who are 21 and older. Tennessee is spending about $75 million annually on the program. "Man, I thought I had made it to heaven because the pain was over," he said after the tooth was pulled in July at the Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry. "When they did pull it out, I was so happy. I was so glad. Everything just changed after that." His wife, Cindy, who also is on Medicaid, has had her teeth pulled at the clinic. Medicaid, the federal and state health insurance program for the poor, requires states to provide dental coverage for children but not adults. But with a growing recognition of the economic and health costs of poor dental health and an influx of federal pandemic dollars, six states began or expanded their Medicaid programs this year to provide coverage for adults. Access remains difficult in many of those states with some dentists refusing to treat Medicaid patients. Even those who want to expand their practice are finding themselves caught up in red tape. Dr. Victor Wu, the chief medical officer for Tennessee's Medicaid program, said he was pleased with the rollout of Medicaid dental benefits that started in January, but he acknowledges the state needs to build out its network and increase the participation rate among dentists. While dental care often is seen as routine, the poor often go without any care for years or even decades. Doing so has significant costs, both to taxpayers and to those who cannot afford treatment. One study from Texas A&M University found that treatment for preventable dental conditions represents up to 2.5% of emergency room visits, at a cost of $2 billion a year. An additional $45 billion is lost year in productivity in the United States annually from untreated oral disease, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "You put off care and you get sicker and then it becomes a crisis where you're missing work or you end up going to the emergency department where you get a big bill and you don't get the tooth actually taken care of," said Dr. Rhonda Switzer-Nadasdi, the chief executive officer of Interfaith Dental Clinic which has offices in Nashville and Murfreesboro, Tennessee. "You need good teeth to have good employment," Switzer-Nadasdi said. All states provide some Medicaid dental benefits for adults, but some limit it to only specific segments of the population, like pregnant women or those who have intellectual disabilities, or cover only emergency care, according to CareQuest Institute for Oral Health, a nonprofit that advocates for expanded dental care. Hawaii, Tennessee, Kentucky, Michigan, Maryland and New Hampshire were the latest to begin or expand their dental coverage; they did so this year. In New Hampshire, the state is spending $33.4 million over 12 months to provide dental care to its 88,000 Medicaid recipients. "There is an increasing understanding that oral health is inseparable from health care," said New Hampshire Democratic Rep. Joe Schapiro, who was the prime sponsor of the expanded dental benefits bill. "The amount of money spent on other health care problems that are related to oral health and the amount of money spent on emergency care when people can't get any kind of preventive or restorative care is not only unfortunate for those people's health but cost a tremendous amount of money." In Kentucky, Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear pressed ahead with emergency regulations ensuring that about 900,000 Kentuckians would continue having access to dental care after the Republican-led legislature rejected his proposal. "We are focused on removing roadblocks that prevent people from getting back into the workforce, and this program does just that," he said. Virginia expanded its Medicaid program in 2021, budgeting $282 million for the 2022 and 2023 fiscal years to cover dental procedures for more than a million recipients. Last year, Kansas gave dental access to nearly 137,000 Medicaid recipients at a cost of $3.5 million in 2022 and $1.2 million in 2023. While advocates are welcoming these changes, Texas, Alabama, Mississippi, Utah and Louisiana still only offer limited benefits. Even as states add dental coverage, millions of beneficiaries are being culled from the Medicaid program nationwide as part of a review of eligibility, something states were prohibited from doing during the pandemic. There are also plenty of hiccups in states that have expanded care. Among the biggest is that too few dentists, especially in rural areas, are taking Medicaid patients, resulting in long waiting times and hourslong drives in search of care. Only about 15% of dentist take Medicaid in New Hampshire, 24% in Tennessee and 27% in Virginia. KANSAS CITY On the night of Oct. 4, 1953, Carl Austin Hall drove his rented Ford along a wooded stretch of U.S. Highway 40 east of Kansas City. He turned down a quiet county road toward a bridge but didn't see the duffel bag he expected. When a Cadillac drove by, Hall was stricken by guilty panic. He had intended to put stolen plates on the Ford, but forgot. The duffel drop was to have been by Cadillac. Had the two men who drove by seen his plates? Hall waited, braced himself and headed back to the bridge. He saw the bag and grabbed it. Hall picked up his girlfriend, Bonnie Brown Heady, and drove east. In the duffel was $600,000 in tens and twenties, the ransom for the life of Robert C. Greenlease Jr., 6-year-old son of one of Kansas City's richest men. The case had been national news since Sept. 28, when Heady, posing as the boy's aunt, managed to lure Bobby from his grade school. On the day of the ransom drop, Hall had sworn yet again to the Greenlease family that the boy was alive. It was a cruel lie. Hall had shot the boy shortly after the kidnapping, then buried him in Heady's backyard in St. Joseph, Mo. Early on Oct. 5, Hall and Heady slipped into St. Louis, rented a flat at 4504 Arsenal Street, indulged their taste for heavy drinking and fought. While Heady slept off her bender, Hall hailed a cab, procured a call girl and took her to the Coral Court, the old no-tell motel on Watson Road in Marlborough. His free spending attracted notice. The cabbie tipped off his boss, mobster Joe Costello, who called Lt. Louis Shoulders, a crooked St. Louis cop. Shoulders and his driver, patrolman Elmer Dolan, arrested Hall on Oct. 6. Sometime that evening, half of the ransom disappeared. Shoulders had figured Hall as an embezzler, an easy mark for a shakedown. At the police station, Hall suddenly confessed he was the Greenlease kidnapper but blamed the murder on a mystery man. Six days later, he and Heady confessed to everything. Who got the Greenlease ransom? True crime review Half of the cash was never recovered in a celebrated 1953 case that ended here. They were executed in Missouri's gas chamber on Dec. 18. Shoulders insisted that he confiscated all the money Hall had with him, but investigators didn't buy it. He and Dolan were convicted of perjury. Dolan eventually told FBI agents he had lied to protect his family and that Shoulders had taken the missing half of the ransom to Costello's house. Dolan won a presidential pardon. Shoulders never fessed up. Only a little of the missing money ever surfaced. The tale of evil, stupidity and corruption endures as Missouri's crime of the 20th century. A look back at the Bobby Greenlease kidnapping UNITED NATIONS Togos foreign minister wasnt having any of it. He talked of an accelerating African awakening, of a resolve to fight our own battles, of a refusal to be banished to the childrens table while the musclebound great powers of the 20th century moved chess pieces around the board. Nobody is at the center of the world, Robert Dussey said in French, his voice emphatic. We dont want to be relegated to the background as the world develops. Africa was Dusseys subject. But he might have been one of any number of leaders speaking at the United Nations over the last week the voices of smaller nations that typically command less attention. They come, they air grievances and concerns, and then the oxygen is gobbled up by others often the five permanent members of the U.N. Security Council. This year, though, Volodymyr Zelenskyys high-profile presence notwithstanding, things felt different. Top leaders of four of the five permanent member nations didnt attend. Climate change helped amplify the concerns of smaller nations not coincidentally, those most affected by it. And speech by speech, speaker by speaker, it became clear: On the international stage, other voices are beginning to rise and to be heard. The voice of the Global South is growing louder, said Terrance Michael Drew, prime minister of the Caribbean island nation of Saint Kitts and Nevis. The voices and experiences of the Pacific matter, said Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong. Our appetite for transformative change has never been higher, said Xavier Espot, prime minister of the small European country of Andorra. The General Assembly is always the biggest platform for countries that dont get a spotlight, says Anjali Dayal, an associate professor of international politics at Fordham University and an expert on the United Nations and other international organizations. But I think this year, we saw that more leaders were paying attention to the biggest constituency of U.N. countries countries that are not big powers but that suffer the biggest consequences and very seldom get to cast the decisive vote, she said. Where is the momentum coming from? As with so many matters of import these days, theres no single answer. This year, one development helped clear space for some of the voices: the shallow attendance of major nations leaders. Of the U.N. Security Councils five permanent members, only the United States, in the personage of President Joe Biden, spoke. The others Russia, China, France and Britain chose to send underlings, as did India and Canada. U.N. Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed called that disappointing. But it meant that smaller nations and coalitions had more oxygen. They used some of it to advocate for a broader-based permanent membership of Security Council, the only U.N. body with the power to take military action and impose sanctions. Only its permanent members can veto resolutions, and frustration about that runs long and deep. The global governance architecture has not delivered the equity and inclusion that is required, said Tandi Dorji, foreign minister of the Asian nation of Bhutan. He insisted representation on the council which lacks a permanent member from Africa or Latin America be broadened. The increasing fragmentation, polarization, and growing inequity we witness in the world today only serve as an urgent cry for strengthening multilateralism. The structure of the United Nations, most countries agree, doesnt fit the current global configuration. An organization built in the postwar mid-20th century to, in essence, prevent the nations who could destroy the world from doing so is not equipped to tackle the fragmentation afoot as the mid-21st century steams toward us with a rapidly evolving global power structure, speaker after speaker said. Other factors, too, are helping softer voices grow louder. Exhibit A: climate change, which has hit the worlds poorest countries hardest in particular, island nations whose very existence is threatened by rising waters. When the president of the island nation of Kirabati, Taneti Maamau, says his country is experiencing intensifying severe drought and coastal inundation, its not a secondhand account and people are starting to listen. The pandemic and the gradual recognition finally of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres yearslong insistence that a multilateral planet is the only way forward also are helping matters. Coalitions are strengthening beyond usual suspects like the G20 and the European Union. There is the Global South in general, with its malleable membership but its commitment to developing countries with unique common needs. There is SIDS, or small island developing states, which tell firsthand stories about climate change. And Africas voice is stronger than ever as it pushes for equity, buoyed by a new permanent G20 seat for the African Union. Then theres sheer population. Africas alone is expected to double from its current 1.3 billion by 2050 and make up a quarter of the planets people. This year, India surpassed China to become the worlds most populous nation; its leader, Narendra Modi, may have skipped the U.N. meeting, but he hosted the G20 two weeks ago and used it as a forum to trumpet Indias suitability as a leader of the Global South. China, too, used the General Assembly last week to cast itself as a member of the Global South and the community of developing nations. While thats a matter of some debate China also wants to be perceived as a key global power its oomph carries along other less-heard nations priorities in its wake, while bigger nations are distracted with other things. It seems that the Global North, under the U.S leadership, is busy resisting Chinas growing power and weakening Putins Russia, Zhiqun Zhu, a professor of political science and international relations at Bucknell University, said in an email. No wonder China is seeking support in the developing world. JEFFERSON CITY The parents of a Missouri prison inmate who died last year are suing Gov. Mike Parsons administration for failing to comply with a request for records about the circumstances of the death. Vonretta Perry and Robert Love, who are the parents of the late LaMarco Love, are asking a Cole County judge to require the Missouri Department of Corrections to turn over video or audio recordings of the cell in which Love was housed on June 8, 2022, the day he died. The two also want records or logs of cell checks, emails written or sent by Love and other reports that may shed light on his death. The lawsuit, filed this week, alleges that the agency is attempting to shield itself from legal scrutiny. MDOC has a conscious intent to prevent families of those who die while in its custody and under its care from investigating civil claims in order to insulate itself and its employees from liability, the lawsuit said. Love, 26, of St. Louis County, was pronounced dead at Texas County Memorial Hospital in Houston, Missouri, after suffering seizures in his cell at the South Central Correctional Center in Licking. He was serving a 10-year sentence for two counts of second-degree assault and two counts of armed criminal action in connection with the 2013 shooting of a Vashon High School student two blocks from the school. Inmate deaths have been in the spotlight in recent years. In 2022, they were up by an estimated 25% and exceeded the number of prisoners who died in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The department has eliminated physical mail and books from outside individuals from reaching prisoners in an attempt to stop deadly drugs from entering prisons. According to the lawsuit, the parents believe that video recordings will show that their son was in obvious need of medical attention and left unattended in his cell. They also said a report on an autopsy performed on Love does not contain information regarding the identity of prison staff responsible for monitoring their sons condition. The autopsy report also does not include any other information concerning the circumstances of LaMarcos death except that he was found unresponsive and had been in the infirmary for 12 to 24 hours for seizure-like activity. Department spokeswoman Karen Pojmann said the agency does not comment on pending legal matters. Under a department policy regarding unexpected deaths, a prison supervisor is required to ensure that 24 hours of video footage is secured and transferred to a storage location. Officials also are required to submit a serious incident report that includes any known circumstances regarding the death. The lawsuit comes as Missouri officials have been criticized for the slow pace of complying with requests for public records under the states 50-year-old Sunshine Law, which was designed to ensure public access to government records. Attorney General Andrew Baileys office, for example, which will defend the state in the Love lawsuit, said in June that a unrelated records request by the Post-Dispatch would take at least six months to process because there were 560 open requests filed before the newspaper made its inquiry. ST. LOUIS A prominent homeless encampment outside City Hall here is growing. Late last week, there were 14 tents in the grass near the Market Street doors. But on Thursday morning, there were at least 25. And by lunchtime, Christopher Perry, 42, and Milton Turner, 58, were standing up another one for the next person in need. Perry said he didnt know why more people were coming or how long they would stay. And he didnt much care. Some people, he said, would eventually get help. Others would leave. This is just another step toward me and people achieving some type of stability, he said. Nevertheless, the growth of the encampment, part of which sits under Mayor Tishaura O. Jones window, has drawn new attention to the citys struggle to find shelter for the homeless here. And it has created another eyesore in a downtown already struggling with big empty buildings and crime concerns: Trash litters the grounds. Some areas stink of urine. Some people use drugs and sit slumped over in stupors all outside the seat of city government. On Wednesday, TV cameras showed up and twisted the knife, getting a tourist to ask why the city didnt move the people into some downtowns vacant buildings. And, on Thursday, paramedics were called to attend to a man who had slid off a step and was unresponsive. Nick Dunne, a spokesman for the mayor, said the city still has no immediate plans to move anyone, at least not by force. City case managers are continuing to reach out to the campers to try and get them help one by one. He acknowledged the effort has been an uphill battle: The city got five people into housing last week, only to see more people come to take their place. Dunne reiterated his bosss concerns that the city is sheltering more than its fair share of the regions homeless. Some people are coming here from outside the city, and outside the state. That puts a strain on resources allocated for people who are from here, he said. He also expressed concern about the Rev. Larry Rice, the prominent homeless advocate, directing people to City Hall. One of Rices longtime lieutenants said last week that he told an Arizona couple about the City Hall encampment after police told the couple they couldnt camp on the riverfront. Campers say Rice has donated many of the tents at the encampment. When more tents are introduced overnight, that makes it more difficult to help people who are already there, Dunne said. Rice, for his part, said he has donated tents to people in need. But he said the camp is a problem of the citys own creation: Officials forced him to close his shelter on Locust Street in 2017 after neighbors said it was a nuisance, taking hundreds of shelter beds offline. And the citys zoning rules make it nearly impossible for others to open up. Homeless people are rising up to protest the lack of adequate shelter and resources, Rice said. Whats been in the dark is coming into the light, he said. Some at the Board of Aldermen may be taking action. Aldermanic President Megan Green has been pushing plans to make it easier to open shelters in the city and direct the city to set up controlled encampments where it would provide showers, toilets, access to social services and 24-hour security. Legislation could be introduced at the Board of Aldermen as soon as Friday morning. JEFFERSON CITY With two days to go in the current fundraising quarter, one of the states most prolific political donors wrote a check Thursday in support of Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, worth $250,000. Rex Sinquefield, a retired investor from St. Louis, previously gave Kehoes political action committee $500,000 as the Republican attempts to win the 2024 primary race against Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft and state Sen. Bill Eigel, R-Weldon Spring. The move marks the latest bid by Sinquefield to be a kingmaker in Missouri politics, after he doled out more than $40 million in campaign contributions over the past decade. The two dont see eye to eye on every issue. While Kehoe has endorsed the state taking control over the St. Louis police, Sinquefield has lobbied against the idea. The money comes as Kehoe, Ashcroft and Eigel are vying to replace Republican Gov. Mike Parson, who is term-limited. They are set to report their fundraising hauls through Sept. 30 in about two weeks. The money they hold in their campaign war chests could paint a picture of who holds an advantage early in the race. Kehoe, a former car dealer and member of the Missouri Senate, has amassed money and backing from a number of lobby groups, including police, fire and agriculture organizations. While contributions to candidate committees are capped at $2,825, donors may give unlimited amounts to political action committees allied with candidates. In the past month, the candidates have been netting some large contributions. Kehoes American Dream PAC received a $50,000 check from a law enforcement group and $25,000 from August Busch, of Budweiser fame. Ashcrofts Committee for Liberty received a $94,350 check from Texas attorney Mark Lanier. And, Eigels BILL PAC took in a total of $100,000 on Sept. 20 from four law firms. In July, the Post-Dispatch reported that Kehoe had amassed $4.1 million in the previous three months. Ashcroft finished the quarter ending in June with a combined $1.9 million on hand, while Eigels balance stood close to $1.1 million. Eigels fundraising practices have come under scrutiny as he targets small donors through a vendor asking them to Stand With Trump as they make a donation. The money, however, goes to Eigels campaign, not the former president. On the Democratic side, House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, D-Springfield, is the only announced candidate. Missouri Ethics Commission records show Quade had $99,227 on hand and available for her bid heading into July. BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The General Office of the State Council, China's cabinet, recently revised the guidelines for a trial program allowing lawyers from the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions to obtain licenses and practice in nine cities in south China's Guangdong Province. The trial program will be extended to Oct. 4, 2026, according to the revised guidelines made public on Thursday. A lawyer from Hong Kong or Macao with at least three years of professional experience will be able to engage in legal work on the mainland, within a certain scope, if he or she passes a practice examination for lawyers in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and obtains a practicing certificate. The revised guidelines will take effect on Oct. 5. CLAYTON The St. Louis County Council is reconsidering a proposal to give senior homeowners a property tax break. Republican Councilman Dennis Hancock pitched a revised bill to the council on Thursday evening at a special committee meeting. In it, the tax break would expire after five years unless the council renewed it. It also more clearly defines who would be eligible and how they would apply for the break. Hancock even said he might be willing to add a cap to exclude some of the countys wealthiest homeowners one of the biggest demands from Democrats who opposed the proposal before. Weve made some progress toward getting this bill to where it can be more palatable to some councilmembers, Hancock said. A similar bill failed in July in part over concerns about wealthy homeowners getting a tax break. Democratic Council Chair Shalonda Webb of unincorporated North County said she needs the plan to have a cap on home values in order to support it. If those things are challenged in court and theyre not legal, the whole bill should be able to come back to the council for a decision, Webb said. Hancock said Jackson County, which includes Kansas City, put a cap in its senior property tax break bill. I think until someone tells us we cant do it, we can do it, Hancock said. In early July, Gov. Mike Parson signed Senate Bill 190, which allows counties to freeze property tax increases for seniors who are eligible for Social Security, own a home and are required to make tax payments on that home. Counties have the option to enact the bill locally. Putting a sunset provision into the proposal would allow St. Louis County to reconsider after two tax assessment cycles if things dont go well, Hancock said. But Democrats want the provision to sunset after three years instead of five. Hancock said he was open to that idea. His new bill makes it clear anyone who is of retirement age according to federal law as young as 62 would be eligible for the benefit as long as they meet the other qualifications. Eligible residents would have to apply by submitting a form to the county collectors office annually. The collector would have to create a reporting system to monitor the program, but the bill leaves it up to the collector to decide how to run it. When St. Louis Countys bill first came to a vote, four of the seven councilmembers voted against it. Webb, Rita Heard Days of Bel-Nor, Lisa Clancy of Maplewood and Kelli Dunaway of Chesterfield opposed the bill over concerns about wealthy homeowners getting a tax break, how it would be enacted, and its financial impact on taxing districts such as schools. Hancock needs to convince at least one of them to change their minds. St. Louis County, which collects revenue and distributes it to taxing bodies such as schools, estimated its taxing districts would have missed out on nearly $34 million in revenue over the past four years if the plan had been in place. The county faces a $47 million budget deficit this year, and losing any revenue could worsen that problem. Advocates argued seniors desperately need tax relief, and say that number is inflated. And even if the council rejects the idea again, county voters could enact the plan through a ballot measure, said Dennis Ganahl, managing director of advocacy group Missouri Tax Relief Now. The bill is too popular across the state for county governments to stop it, said Ganahl, whose group has lobbied for the plan at the state and local level. St. Charles County passed its version of the freeze earlier this month, which will apply to residents 62 and older and could take effect as early as next year. Four other counties have also passed it: Camden, Greene, Laclede and Jackson, according to Missouri Tax Relief Now. St. Louis County Council members could consider the new measure as soon as Oct. 10. SEOUL, South Korea Maybe it never made sense for North Korea to hold on to Pvt. Travis King. Just over two months after he sprinted into North Korea across the heavily fortified inter-Korean border, King was put on a plane back to America after the North released him into U.S. custody. Several recent American detainees had been held for over a year 17 months in the case of Otto Warmbier, an American college student who was arrested during a group tour. Warmbier was in a coma when he was deported, and later died. King's case was unique, not least because he was one of the 28,500 American troops stationed in South Korea to deter potential aggression from the nuclear-armed North. There was speculation that North Korea would try to maximize the propaganda value of an active duty U.S. soldier who voluntarily crossed into its territory, reportedly because he was disillusioned with racism in the military and American society. The North has often been accused of using American detainees as bargaining chips, but Biden administration officials said they made no concessions to secure King's release. Pyongyang did not provide a detailed explanation when it announced the expulsion. In a brief report, the official Korean Central News Agency said King confessed to illegally entering the North because he harbored "ill feeling against inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination" within the U.S. Army and was "disillusioned about the unequal U.S. society." Some previous foreign detainees have said after their releases that declarations of guilt while in North Korean custody were made under coercion. The North may have simply decided that King was more trouble than he was worth. Analysts say the 23-year-old's legal troubles could have limited his propaganda value. At the time he crossed the border in July, King was supposed to be heading to Fort Bliss, Texas, following his release from prison in South Korea on an assault conviction. As a low-ranking serviceman, King was clearly not a meaningful source of U.S. military information. The North would have been unable to justify the costs of providing him food, accommodation, security guards and translators, especially when it was uncertain what it would get from the United States amid stalled diplomacy. "North Korea is actually good at doing the math on these things," said Moon Seong Mook, a retired South Korean brigadier general who participated in past military talks with the North. "They concluded that the longer he stays, the more of a burden he becomes." Pyongyang probably also didn't want to wait out a protracted negotiation with the U.S. Considering their prolonged diplomatic freeze, any gain was unlikely to be worth the trouble of dragging out his detention. North Korea likely spent much of King's 71 days in custody weighing his potential as a propaganda asset. In the end, KCNA's brief description of King's supposed frustrations with American society and the U.S. military was all the North was going to get out of him, said Hong Min, an analyst at Seoul's Korea Institute for National Unification. Unauthorized crossings across the Demilitarized Zone separating the Koreas are extremely unusual, and King was the first American soldier to do it in decades. Previous soldier defectors, like Charles Jenkins or James Dresnok in the 1960s, were treated by Pyongyang as propaganda assets, showcased in leaflets and films attacking the U.S. and praising the North's regime. Other Americans were detained, publicly condemned and handed harsh penalties based on confessions of anti-state activities they later said were coerced. Freeing them often required lengthy backdoor negotiations and high-profile U.S. officials flying into Pyongyang to secure their release. King's case was different in many ways. King's legal troubles and the intense media coverage surrounding his dash across the border zone likely made it difficult for Pyongyang's propaganda writers to craft a story about a disillusioned U.S. soldier escaping evil imperialists, Hong said. "Everyone knew why it happened and everyone saw how it happened," he said. Hong said King's swift release also reflects North Korean efforts to present itself as a responsible government that abides by international norms and laws, and may be meant to answer criticism about its human rights record as it seeks to build a more assertive diplomatic profile. During a session of North Korea's rubber-stamp parliament this week, leader Kim Jong Un called for the country to take a larger role in a coalition of nations confronting the United States in a "new Cold War," KCNA said Thursday. "I think the only reason they would have considered keeping (King), was the discrimination angle, to be able to put a face to counter-criticisms of America's human rights situation," said Jenny Town, a senior fellow at the Stimson Center in Washington and director of the North Korea-focused 38 North website. "But that doesn't seem to have been compelling enough for them to let him stay." Seven Republican presidential hopefuls gathered at the Reagan Library in California on Wednesday for the second of the partys primary debates. The contest's dominant front-runner former President Donald Trump skipped the event again. With less than four months until the Iowa caucuses officially jumpstart the GOP nomination process, the pressure is building on Trump's rivals to show they can emerge as a genuine alternative. Here are some early takeaways from the debate: DeSantis hits Trump Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis had an aggressive start, using his first answer to criticize Trump for skipping the debate and for adding to the national debt while serving as president. Donald Trump is missing in action. He should be here on this stage tonight. He owes it to you to defend his record, DeSantis said. The Florida governor has been slow to attack Trump for most of the campaign, but as hes struggled to maintain his position as a distant second, hes started slowly sharpening his critiques of the man whose endorsement he once embraced. With his position in the race at risk of stalling, DeSantis faced pressure to have a standout and aggressive performance Wednesday. DeSantis seemed eager to jump in on a question after Trump was criticized by former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who has made hammering Trump a focus of his campaign. DeSantis began speaking at the same time as another candidate and when finally given the floor, he used his answer to hit President Joe Biden and Trump in the same swipe, accusing them of lacking leadership. The other candidates ignored Trump as they answered their first question about the autoworkers strike in Michigan where Trump was visiting instead of debating. GOPs shift from Reagan The debate at the Reagan Library highlighted the way the GOP has drifted from some of the former presidents core values. One of them was highlighted right away immigration. A clip of the 40th president calling for amnesty for people in the country illegally preceded a question about immigration policy. Christie, who once represented a Democratic state and backed a similar proposal a decade ago, distanced himself from that, saying it was effectively ancient history. Were no longer in a position to do that anymore, Christie said, calling for enforcing the law. Nikki Haley, the daughter of Indian immigrants and a former South Carolina governor, went a step further, calling for an end to foreign aid to Latin America until the border is secured. Only when we fix the immigration system, only when we make the border secure should we ever put more money into this, the former United Nations representative said. The rightward shift on migration was percolating even before Trumps presidential run began in 2015, but his victory the following year accelerated it. Even Ramaswamy, also the son of Indian immigrants, jumped in to highlight his proposal to revoke U.S. citizenship for children born in the country to parents who are here illegally. Thatd require a constitutional amendment and has also been embraced by Trump, but it shows how far the modern GOP has drifted from Reagan. A new tone from Ramaswamy? Ramaswamy was the bad boy of the first debate, declaring that everyone on this stage is corrupt except him because he was a political outsider, a biotech entrepreneur who wrote a book entitled Woke, Inc. and decided to run for president. It got him attention, but also seemed to have gotten under the skins of not only his rivals, but GOP primary voters. Ramaswamy tried a kinder, gentler approach this time. These are good people on this stage, he declared at the start of the debate. Later Ramaswamy repeatedly cited Reagans so-called 11th commandment to never criticize another Republican. He even tried a little humble pie. Im the new guy here so I know I have to earn your trust, he told the crowd, saying he may seem a bit of a know-it-all but hed be eager to listen to more experienced hands in the Oval Office. He certainly didnt defuse the tension onstage Ramaswamy ended up at the bottom of a political dogpile again as candidates lined up to criticize him. A more assertive Scott After delivering a somewhat underwhelming performance during the first debate, South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott sought to more forcefully assert himself on Wednesday. The only Black person on stage, Scott jumped on a question to DeSantis about revisions to Florida's school curriculum that required teachers to instruct middle-school students that enslaved people developed skills which, in some instances, could be applied for their personal benefit." After DeSantis defended the standards, Scott responded that "there is not a redeeming quality in slavery. The senator then tried to criticize both DeSantis and Vice President Kamala Harris, who is Black and of South Asian descent. Scott then gave a long answer defending Americas evolution and raised his voice in a crescendo, declaring, America is not a racist country, which drew applause. Read more: Students are back in the classroom this month, but many are not getting the education they deserve. As many parents already know, the difference in educational quality between schools can be stark. Even districts that are geographically close can often be very unequal. Unfortunately, Missouri children are legally bound to the school district in which they live, even if another nearby school better meets their needs. Back in May, lawmakers proposed a solution: Allow families to enroll in the public school of their choice. Rather than force students to attend the public school in their district, under the K-12 Open Enrollment Act, parents would be able to transfer their children to a different public school free of charge. For parents who cant otherwise afford to pack up and move to another district, this bill could be life-changing. Missouri is hardly the first state to consider open enrollment. In fact, the vast majority of states 43 as of last year have some type of open enrollment program. Most are highly restrictive, but the few that give parents more choice have been very successful. In Arizona, the first state to implement it way back in 1994, all school districts are required to allow out-of-district students to enroll without charging tuition. Parents have been taking full advantage. As education policy expert Garion Frankel reports, Scottsdale, a wealthy suburb of Phoenix, accepted more than 4,000 out-of-district transfers (or more than 18 percent of the districts total enrollment) in 2014 alone. As of the 20212022 school year, this trend has continued, with out-of-district transfers now constituting 21 percent of Scottsdales student population. But wait! Wouldnt open enrollment drain struggling schools if students were allowed to transfer out? Thats true, but ultimately, its a good thing. Parents transfer their kids for a reason usually because that school isnt doing something as well as another one might, whether thats teaching math, creating a welcoming environment, or providing robust social services. Open enrollment isnt just beneficial for students that decide to transfer out though. It can also help students who choose to stay. By forcing them to compete for students, open enrollment incentivizes schools to improve. According to a study published in 2000 by Caroline M. Hoxby in the American Economic Review, competition makes schools more productive that is, it improves academic achievement and makes districts more financially efficient. A 2017 study published in the Journal of Education Policy looked at Arkansas schools and found that the ones that saw more students leave also showed the most significant improvements in math, reading, and language test scores. Arkansas example demonstrates that competition is a powerful engine for augmenting school performance. For families with the misfortune of living in underachieving districts, open enrollment could offer a convenient way out. Lets look at a couple of districts just outside of St. Louis. According to a ranking produced by the Show-Me Institute, the University City district is 488th out of 552, while nearby Maplewood Heights is ranked 88th. The drive distance between them is 10-15 minutes. If a school in the Maplewood Heights district has classroom seats available, it would be tragic to legally prohibit children who live just a few miles away from filling them and instead force them to attend a failing school. That doesnt mean underperforming schools dont have some great teachers who are trying to make a difference. Many certainly do. But even the best teachers can only do so much if the district is failing to provide the right support. In that situation, parents should have better options. Some might ask why a family wouldnt simply vote with their feet and relocate to a better district. This is easier said than done, especially now that housing is more expensive than it has been in decades. The average mortgage payment in Missouri has almost doubled since 2020. Families shouldnt have to break the bank in order to find a good public school for their children. Public schools were originally created to give every child an equal opportunity to get a quality education. Fencing them in by their zip code is antithetical to that goal. Open enrollment can free Missouri students from artificial barriers that prevent them from reaching their full potential. Tyler Curtis is a contributor at Young Voices and works as a loan officer at a Missouri bank. Next to the phrase bad faith in the dictionary should be the official portrait of Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft. Having been slapped down in court this week for his deliberately improper handling of a pending abortion-rights referendum, he now vows to appeal, even though he never had a case. The obvious goal is and always has been to tie up the question in court long enough to potentially cause activists to miss deadlines for gathering signatures to get abortion rights on the Missouri ballot next year. Ashcroft apparently cares nothing about the fact that he is transparently misusing his official powers for his own political gain. He clearly thinks voters in next years gubernatorial race wont hold him accountable for this crass and cynical abuse of authority. They should. At issue is Missouris new abortion ban, enacted minutes after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade last year. It bans abortion from the moment of conception in all cases, even rape and incest, with the sole exception of medical emergencies. Doctors who violate the ban can face up to 15 years in prison. No state in America has a more draconian abortion law. And Ashcroft and his fellow right-wing Republicans have apparently come to understand that even in conservative Missouri, it may not survive a statewide referendum. After all, of the seven states that have considered abortion-related issues on a statewide ballot since Roe fell, every single one even the red states of Kansas and Kentucky has come down strongly on the side of protecting reasonable abortion rights. So Ashcroft, determined not to let Missouri voters have a clear up-or-down vote on the issue if he can help it, has been using his state-funded office to sabotage the current effort to get an abortion-rights referendum on the ballot. As secretary of state, Ashcroft is responsible for crafting ballot language to describe the proposed referendum. Under state law, that language is required to be neither intentionally argumentative nor likely to create prejudice either for or against the proposed measure. Abortion-rights activists are proposing several different versions of the referendum, which contain various levels of detail as to when abortion might or might not be regulated by the state. But none is accurately described by the ballot language Ashcroft is trying to foist on the voters. His proposed language which, again, is required by law to be free of biased wording would tell voters that the referendum allows for dangerous, unregulated and unrestricted abortions from conception to live birth. Thats not unbiased ballot language, its a right-wing campaign screed designed to appeal to the Republican base that Ashcroft is wooing in next years increasingly competitive GOP primary for governor. Cole County Circuit Judge Jon Beetem saw right through it. In a ruling Monday, Beetem correctly found that Ashcrofts language was argumentative and does not fairly describe the purposes or probable effect of the proposed ballot measures. Which is putting it mildly. Beetem rewrote the language to offer voters a sober description of the proposals, including their protections for contraception and reproductive health care generally, which Ashcrofts language ignored. Each of six ballot summaries that Beetem re-wrote for the differently worded measures begins by telling voters the proposals would establish a right to make decisions about reproductive health care, including abortion and contraceptives, with any government interference of that right presumed invalid. That accurately describes the intent of the proposals, free of rhetorical hysteria. So Ashcroft is doubling down on the hysteria. His vowed appeal of Beetems ruling will almost certainly end up at the same place, but it will further stall the referendum effort. Missouri taxpayers are funding this gross abuse of state powers and resources to thwart a fair vote on the issue. Voters shouldnt forget that the next time Ashcrofts name is on the ballot. I was born a week before Hitler's army invaded Poland in 1939. When I was old enough to understand, my mother told me how worried she had been about a Nazi takeover of our country. She told me about turning off all the lights in the house when the warning sirens howled and obeying the orders of the block captain. Four of my uncles served in that war. All of them came home scarred physically, mentally and emotionally. I was too young to understand back then, but I'm older now and studied enough history to recognize the importance of American support for Ukraine against a dictator and an army every bit as brutal as the Germans were in the 1940s. The Ukrainians are the bulwark protecting the free and independent countries of eastern Europe from a malevolent dictator who dreams of recreating the Russian Empire. As Hitler's war machine occupied more and more territory, a vocal group of Americans lobbied against any American involvement in that war. President Franklin Roosevelt, who had been secretary of the Navy, recognized the desperate situation in Europe but could do nothing more than to lend Britain some battleships. It took the attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese to bring America fully into that war. No one can predict what will happen in Ukraine if the United States and other countries withdraw their support. But, as Mark Twain once said, "History never repeats itself, but it does often rhyme." Susan Cunningham Pacific The countdown to a federal government shutdown is nearing zero with no solution in sight. House Republicans are too busy infighting, spewing conspiracy theories and doing the political bidding of former President Donald Trump to find a solution to avoid a shutdown. The House Judiciary Committees grilling of Attorney General Merrick Garland last week is the latest example of this dysfunction. The Republican representatives went on a daylong fishing expedition in desperate search of a hook to snag President Biden with the possible misdeeds of his son. They caught nothing. But to them, as the saying goes, A bad day of fishing is better than a good day at work. Republicans obsession with Hunter Biden not only distracts from important issues, but drips with hypocrisy. One of the Republican inquisitors demanded to know why Garland had not initiated an investigation of the sale of the younger Bidens paintings because, according to that congressman, it could only be influence peddling to curry favor with his father. Currying favor with presidential offspring is neither new nor by itself a crime. Remember that the Chinese government fast-tracked Ivanka Trumps trademark for her dress company and that her husband has secured billions from Saudi Arabia deals due to the contacts he made as his father-in-laws diplomat without credentials. Let Special Counsel David C. Weiss do his investigation and prosecute the younger Biden if there is evidence of crimes. Meanwhile, Republicans, try to do the peoples real business. Sally Barker St. Louis Cloud DX can now deliver digital Remote Patient Monitoring (dRPM) solutions to clients via Hospitals and via the Central Zone Primary Care Network in Alberta. News in Summary Cloud DX is the winner of a competitive Request For Proposal (RFP) to provide digital Remote Patient Monitoring (dRPM) hardware and services to Alberta Health Services (AHS). AHS is Canada's first and largest provincewide, integrated health system, responsible for delivering to health services to more than 4.4 million people. Cloud DX works with AHS to enable remote monitoring of patients at various sites for use cases that include chronic disease management, post-surgical recovery at home, and general medical virtual hospital care. This new contract has a duration of 2 years with a 1-year renewal option. It is Cloud DX's 21st contract or contract extension to be announced in 2023, vs 28 in all of 2022. KITCHENER, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Cloud DX (TSXV:CDX)(OTCQB: CDXFF), a leading North American provider of Remote Patient Monitoring services as part of the Cloud DX Connected HealthTM Virtual Care Platform is pleased to announce that it has been selected through a competitive RFP process as a provider of digital Remote Patient Monitoring (dRPM) products and services to Alberta Health Services (AHS). AHS has deployed the Cloud DX Connected HealthTMplatform since May 2020, under a series of contracts signed during and after the COVID pandemic. Now, Cloud DX has won the competitive RFP to continue as a provider of dRPM devices and services to the provincial health authority. Digital Remote Patient Monitoring is used generally to support outcomes for patients with complex chronic conditions that include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure (CHF) and comorbidities including hypertension, obesity, and diabetes. Connected Health by Cloud DX includes our award-winning, patient facing mobile application, easy-to-use Health Canada licensed medical devices, smart software that gathers data from and connects to each patient at home, and comprehensive clinical workflows that improve both the efficiency of care delivery and healthcare outcomes for patients. Clients across North America now deploy Cloud DX Connected Health for chronic disease management, post-surgical monitoring, pulmonary and cardiac rehabilitation, diabetes, and palliative care use cases. dRPM using Cloud DX Connected Health has been shown, most recently in the peer-reviewed PCV-RAM-1 study, to dramatically reduce post-surgical medication errors, severe pain scores, ER visits and hospital readmissions. According to official stats from the Canadian Institute for Health Information (www.cihi.ca) Patient Cost Estimator, exacerbation of chronic conditions resulted in over 11,000 hospital admissions in Alberta in 2021 averaging approx. 7 days each. Recent research, including a series of studies at Hamilton Health Sciences in Hamilton ON, has shown that dRPM using Cloud DX Connected Health can reduce the average length of a hospital admission by 1.9 days on average. Cloud DX is SOC 2 compliant and meets or exceeds Alberta Health Information Act (HIA) privacy and security regulations protecting personal health information. This is the 21st contract or extension announced so far in 2023 by Cloud DX vs 28 contracts / extensions announced in all of 2022. Robert Kaul, Founder and CEO of Cloud DX stated. "Cloud DX is very pleased to have been awarded this competitive dRPM contract with Alberta Health Services. Combined with the recently announced contract awards from Alberta Central Zone Primary Care Network and the Mohawk Medbuy shared services organization, Connected Health by Cloud DX is now, more than ever, the preferred dRPM solution for hospitals, physicians, community paramedics and provincial health authorities across Canada. With this announcement, our mission to make healthcare better for everyone in Canada takes another giant stride forward." About Cloud DX Accelerating digital healthcare, Cloud DX is on a mission to make healthcare better for everyone. Our Connected Health" remote patient monitoring platform is used by healthcare enterprises and care teams across North America to virtually manage chronic disease, enable aging in place, and deliver hospital-quality post-surgical care in the home. Our partners achieve better healthcare and patient outcomes, reduce the need for hospitalization or re-admission, and reduce healthcare delivery costs through more efficient use of resources. Cloud DX is the co-winner of the Qualcomm Tricorder XPRIZE, winner of "2022 Top Innovator" from Canadian Business, a 2021 "Edison Award" winner, a Fast Company "World Changing Idea" finalist, and one of "Canada's Ten Most Prominent Telehealth Providers." Cloud DX is an exclusive partner to Medtronic Canada, Teladoc Health Canada, and leading hospital procurement agent Mohawk Medbuy. *Post-discharge after surgery Virtual Care with Remote Automated Monitoring-1 (PVC-RAM-1) technology versus standard care: randomized controlled trial. BMJ 2021:374:n2209 Sept 2021. https://www.bmj.com/content/374/bmj.n2209 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. # # # Cloud DX Investor Site https://ir.clouddx.com/overview/default.aspx Social Links Twitter https://twitter.com/CloudDX Facebook https://www.facebook.com/clouddxinc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/cloud-dx/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cloud.dx/ For media inquiries please contact: Marketing Enquiries Phone 888-543-0944 [email protected] For investor inquiries please contact: Jay Bedard Cloud DX Investor Relations Phone 647-881-8418 [email protected] Officer responsible for this Press Release: Robert Kaul Chief Executive Officer Phone 888-543-0944 [email protected] Forward Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "estimates", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release. In particular, this news release includes certain forward-looking statements concerning the terms of the contract extension, the expected proceeds therefrom, as well as management's objectives, strategies, beliefs and intentions. 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. In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, the Company's the ability of the Company to fulfill the terms of and derive the benefits from the contract extension. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. propos de Cloud DX Accelerant les soins de sante virtuels, Cloud DX a pour mission d'ameliorer les soins de sante pour tous. Notre plateforme de surveillance a distance des patients Connected HealthMC est utilisee par des entreprises de soins de sante et des equipes de soins partout en Amerique du Nord pour gerer virtuellement les maladies chroniques, permettre aux gens de vieillir chez eux et fournir des soins post-chirurgicaux de qualite hospitaliere a domicile. Nos partenaires obtiennent de meilleurs resultats pour les soins de sante et les patients, reduisent le besoin d'hospitalisation ou de readmission, et reduisent les couts de prestation des soins de sante grace a une utilisation plus efficace des ressources. Cloud DX est co-laureate du prix Qualcomm Tricorder XPRIZE, laureate du prix Edison 2021, finaliste du concours World Changing Idea de Fast Company et un des dix plus importants fournisseurs de telesante au Canada. Site des relations avec les investisseurs de Cloud DX https://ir.clouddx.com/overview/default.aspx La Bourse de croissance TSX et son fournisseur de services de reglementation (tel que ce terme est defini dans les politiques de la Bourse de croissance TSX) n'assument aucune responsabilite quant a la pertinence ou a l'exactitude du present communique. Tous les enonces prospectifs sont assujettis a des risques et a des incertitudes, tels que ceux decrits dans les rapports periodiques de Medtronic deposes aupres de la Securities and Exchange Commission. Les resultats reels peuvent sensiblement differer des resultats anticipes. SOURCE: Cloud DX Inc. View source version on accesswire.com: CAIRO, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian Minister of International Cooperation Rania Al-Mashat has met with Swiss State Secretary for Economic Affairs Helene Budliger Artieda in Egypt's resort of Sharm El-Sheikh to discuss ways to boost bilateral economic cooperation. The talks were held on the sidelines of the eighth annual meeting of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), in which both countries are non-regional members, the Egyptian Ministry of International Cooperation said in a statement on Wednesday. "The two sides discussed efforts to enhance cooperation in the area of climate action and transition to a green economy," said the statement. Al-Mashat emphasized the depth of development cooperation between the two sides that has extended to about 40 years, adding that Egypt aspires to elevate relations with Switzerland "to broader horizons." The Egyptian minister also highlighted his country's efforts to mobilize green investments for mitigating and adapting to climate change. For her part, Artieda underscored the importance of economic cooperation with Egypt and emphasized "Switzerland's keenness to further promote trade and investment with Egypt." The two-day annual meeting of the AIIB kicked off on Monday in Egypt's Sharm El-Sheikh under the theme of "Sustainable Growth in a Challenging World." Winners demonstrated excellence in sustainability, safety and community service CHARLOTTE, NC / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Duke Energy has chosen eight organizations to receive its 2023 Power Partner Award. The annual program founded in 1992 honors businesses and other organizations that have demonstrated excellence in sustainability, safety, service, and problem solving. "We value our large commercial, industrial and government customers and encourage them to strive for organizational excellence," said Chris Edge, Duke Energy vice president of large business customers. "All the winners awarded this year have innovated in ways that benefit their employees, stakeholders and greater community." The 2023 Power Partner award-winning organizations are: Alamance-Burlington School System Burlington, N.C. Category: Sustainability Excellence The Alamance-Burlington School System (ABSS) is a school district covering Alamance County and the city of Burlington, N.C., with an enrollment of approximately 23,000 students. The school system is committed to participation in Duke Energy's Energy Efficiency (EE) Design Assistance programs for new facilities and has enrolled facilities in extensive retrofitting projects resulting in valuable energy savings. Milliken & Company Spartanburg, S.C. Category: Sustainability Excellence Milliken & Company, an industrial manufacturer of textiles, floor coverings and chemicals, works closely with Duke Energy to develop economically viable solutions to meet their desired 2025 sustainability goals. Milliken's Magnolia/Allen plant in Blacksburg, S.C., opted into Duke Energy's EE programs, using its custom performance incentives to eliminate coal as an on-site fuel source and to significantly reduce air pollutant emissions. Also, as part of Duke Energy's net metering program, Milliken installed two solar arrays at their Roger Milliken Center (RMC) Global Headquarters. Evonik Tippecanoe, Ind. Category: Safety Partnership Evonik, a German based chemical company, partnered with Duke Energy to strengthen the safety culture at its Tippecanoe Laboratory site. Through this partnership, Evonik and the Duke Energy Lafayette Distribution Operations Team performed "Safety Days," a series of live-line demonstrations designed to communicate everyday best safety practices to Evonik employees. Evonik also worked with Duke Energy to install warning signage underneath on-site high voltage lines and sought consultation on safe vegetation clearing practices. Catawba College Salisbury, N.C. Category: Sustainability Excellence Catawba College, a longtime customer of Duke Energy, was recently recognized for becoming the first campus in North Carolina and the Southeast to achieve carbon neutrality. Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions (DESS) assisted Catawba College with the development of a sustainability plan that got them to this goal. In addition, the college used DESS resources to upgrade their campus electric system and implement a campus-wide metering system to track their energy usage. Working together with Duke Energy, the college was able to achieve their 2030 goal of carbon neutrality seven years ahead of schedule. Duke University Durham, N.C. Category: Sustainability Excellence Duke University has established the Duke Climate Commitment, a university-wide initiative to address climate change. To advance this initiative, the university is a participant in Duke Energy's Green Source Advantage (GSA) Program, which enabled the construction of three solar arrays totaling 100.9 MW of renewable generation. In addition, the university has installed net-metered solar arrays, totaling approximately 876 kW of clean energy. Purdue Research Foundation West Lafayette, Ind. Category: Service Excellence Purdue Research Foundation (PRF) has two major development sites within Duke Energy Indiana's service territory, Purdue Research Park and Discovery Park District. Both sites are creating jobs and bringing capital investment to the West Lafayette, IN community. Three projects have broken ground at these sites in 2023: the Rolls-Royce High Altitude Test Facility, Rolls-Royce Hybrid Electric Test Facility, and Ascension St. Vincent Hospital campus. Duke Energy Indiana and PRF have partnered closely to develop a long-term planning strategy to accommodate future growth at these facilities. FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotech USA Holly Springs, N.C. Category: Solution Innovation In March 2021, FujiFilm Diosynth announced that Holly Springs, N.C. had been selected for their new cell production site. By 2025, FujiFilm will invest $2 billion into the site and surrounding community, creating 725 skilled jobs that pay an average of $100,000. Duke Energy will serve the 16 MW campus, which will be the largest culture bio-pharmaceutical contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) in North America. The facility will enable FujiFilm to produce transformative medicine to meet market demand. FujiFilm has also partnered with Duke Energy to provide backup generation to the site through a 15-year Premier Power agreement. Further, the design and construction of the campus will align with Fujifilm's Sustainable Value Plan. Toray Resin Company Shelbyville, Ind. Category: Sustainability Excellence Toray Resin Company, an international plastics manufacturer, partnered with Duke Energy to construct a solar energy facility capable of producing up to 900 kilowatts of power at its campus in Shelbyville, Ind. Toray Resin Company signed up to be the first participant in Duke Energy Indiana's solar services pilot program, which aims to make it easier for businesses, schools and nonprofits to incorporate clean, renewable energy sources into their energy mix. Under the program, Duke Energy owns, operates and maintains the Blue River Solar Facility on Toray Resin's campus for a monthly service fee. The program provides Toray Resin with the advantages of clean energy while minimizing upfront costs and maintenance obligations. Construction on the 8-acre, ground-mounted solar project began in October 2021, and it was brought into service in 2023. Duke Energy Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. Its electric utilities serve 8.2 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 50,000 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas unit serves 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. The company employs 27,600 people. Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy transition to achieve its goals of net-zero methane emissions from its natural gas business by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2050. The company has interim carbon emission targets of at least 50% reduction from electric generation by 2030, 50% for Scope 2 and certain Scope 3 upstream and downstream emissions by 2035, and 80% from electric generation by 2040. In addition, the company is investing in major electric grid enhancements and energy storage, and exploring zero-emission power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear. Duke Energy was named to Fortune's 2023 "World's Most Admired Companies" list and Forbes' "World's Best Employers" list. More information is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos and videos. Duke Energy's illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook. 24-Hour media line: 800.559.3853 View original content here. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Duke Energy on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Duke Energy Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/duke-energy Email: [email protected] SOURCE: Duke Energy View source version on accesswire.com: COQUITLAM, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Grid Battery Metals Inc. (the "Company" or "Grid Battery") (TSXV:CELL)(OTCQB: EVKRF)(FRA:NMK2) is pleased to announce that the Company has entered into an Arrangement Agreement with its wholly owned subsidiary 1427652 B.C. Ltd. ("SpinCo"). In accordance with the terms of the Arrangement Agreement, Grid will transfer to SpinCo ownership of its interests in its nickel properties in British Columbia, which consists of five claim blocks in three groups (Nickel West, Nickel Central, Nickel South) in the area surrounding Mount Sidney Williams, in close proximity to the Decar Project and the Baptiste deposit of FPX Nickel Corp (TSXV:FPX). (collectively, the "Transferred Assets") in exchange for 9,339,040 common shares of SpinCo (the "Consideration Shares"). Grid will spin out the Consideration Shares (the "Spin-Out Shares") to Grid shareholders. It is proposed that the transaction will be carried out by way of statutory plan of arrangement (the "Spin-Out") pursuant to the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia). Under the terms of the Spin-Out, shareholders of Grid would exchange their existing common shares of Grid for the same number of new common shares of Grid (having the identical terms of the existing Grid common shares) and Spin-Out Shares of SpinCo. There will be no change in shareholders' holdings in Grid as a result of the Spin-Out. It is anticipated that each Grid shareholder will receive 1/20 of a Spin-Out Share for each Grid common share held as at the record date for the arrangement. Grid will continue to hold its interest in its Nevada-based Lithium Projects (Texas Springs, Volt Canyon and Clayton Valley Lithium Projects). The Spin-Out Transaction requires the approval of the Grid shareholders and approval of the British Columbia Supreme Court in order to proceed. Full details on the Spin-Out Transaction will be contained in the Management Information Circular to be prepared for the Grid shareholder meeting. Grid shareholders are urged to read the Management Information Circular carefully and in its entirety. The intention is to seek a listing of the SpinCo common shares on the Canadian Securities Exchange but no assurance can be provided that such a listing will be obtained. Any such listing will be subject to SpinCo fulfilling all of the applicable regulatory and listing requirements. Tim Fernback, Grid President & CEO comments "In order to continue to create additional shareholder value, we are separating our Nevada-based lithium properties from our British Columbia-based nickel properties, and plan on separately financing and taking the BC nickel properties public on the CSE. Each Grid shareholder will receive a share dividend and have a proportionate share of this new entity. We believe this is a win for our shareholders, giving each shareholder an equity interest in a new public company at no additional cost to them." About the Canadian Securities Exchange The Canadian Securities Exchange, or CSE, is operated by CNSX Markets Inc. Recognized as a stock exchange in 2004, the CSE began operations in 2003 to provide a modern and efficient alternative for companies looking to access the Canadian public capital markets. About Grid Battery Metals Inc. Grid Battery Metals Inc. is a Canadian based exploration company whose primary listing is on the TSX Venture Exchange. The Company's maintains a focus on exploration for high value battery metals required for the electric vehicle (EV) market. www.gridbatterymetals.com. About Texas Springs Property The Company owns a 100% interest in the Texas Spring Property which consists of mineral lode claims located in Elko County, Nevada. The Property is in the Granite Range southeast of Jackpot, Nevada, about 73 km north-northeast of Wells, Nevada. The target is a lithium clay deposit in volcanic tuff and tuffaceous sediments of the Humbolt Formation. The Texas Spring property adjoins the southern border of the Nevada North Lithium Project - owned by Surge Battery Metals Inc. ("Surge") (TSXV:NILI), (OTC:NILIF) and comprised of 303 mineral claims. Surge's first round of drilling identified strongly mineralized lithium bearing clays. The average lithium content within all near surface clay zones intersected in the 2022 drilling program, applying a 1000 ppm cut-off, was 3254 ppm. (Press release March 29, 2023). More recent results have shown higher grade lithium up to 8070 ppm on this property after initial drilling (Press release September 12, 2023). About Clayton Valley Lithium Project The Company owns a 100% interest in 113 lithium lode and placer claims covering over 640 hectares in Clayton Valley. Clayton Valley is a down-dropped closed basin formed by the Miocene age Great Basin extension and is still active due to movement along the Walker Lane structural zone. As a result, the basin has preserved multiple layers of lithium bearing volcanic ash, resulting from multiple eruptive events over the past 6 million years including eruptions from the 700,000-year-old Long Valley Caldera system and related events. These ash layers are thought to contribute to the lithium brines extracted by Albemarle and are also likely involved in the formation of the exposed lithium rich clay deposits on the east side of Clayton Valley. Volt Canyon Lithium Property The Company owns a 100% interest in 80 placer claims covering approximately 635 hectares of alluvial sediments and clays located 122 km northeast of Tonopah, Nevada. About the British Columbia, Nickel Projects The Mount Sidney Williams Group consists of three claim blocks with a total area of 10,569 hectares in the area surrounding Mount Sidney Williams, both adjoining and near the Decar project of FPX Nickel Corp., located 100 kilometres northwest of Fort St. James, B.C., in the Omineca mining division. Metallic mineralization includes nickel, cobalt, and chromium. At least some of the nickel mineralization occurs as awaruite. The Mitchell Range Group area claim consists of one claim block covering 8,659 hectares with demonstrated metallic mineralization including nickel, cobalt, and chromium. Nickel cobalt mineralization has not been well explored, but the presence of awaruite has been documented. On Behalf of the Board of Directors "Tim Fernback" Tim Fernback, President & CEO Contact Information: Email: [email protected] Phone: 604-428-5690 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 may contain forward-looking statements which include, but are not limited to, comments that involve future events and conditions, which are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Except for statements of historical facts, comments that address resource potential, upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt and security of mineral property titles, availability of funds, and others are forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may vary materially from those statements. General business conditions are factors that could cause actual results to vary materially from forward-looking statements. SOURCE: Grid Battery Metals Inc. View source version on accesswire.com: EVEXIAS Health Solutions founder's first-of-its-kind book debunks the myths and misconceptions surrounding hormones in women and men SOUTHLAKE, TX / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / Over the past 15 years, Terri DeNeui, DNP, APRN, ACNP-BC, a board-certified nurse practitioner and founder of EVEXIAS Health Solutions, has been educating both her patients and fellow healthcare professionals about the new, cutting-edge medical advancements in hormone health while also dispelling common misconceptions surrounding the various treatment options. Now, Dr. DeNeui is set to empower readers to take control of their hormones with the release of her new book, "Hormone Havoc." The Kindle version of the book is now available for purchase on Amazon and a hard-cover version will be available in October. Hormone Havoc "Hormone Havoc" stems from Dr. DeNeui's deep-rooted passion for helping her patients by advancing the field of hormone health. She recognizes that hormones play a fundamental role in long-term health, the risk of chronic disease, as well as emotional and mental well-being. The book offers real-world tips to achieve and sustain hormone optimization at any age while debunking common myths such as "one-size-fits-all" treatment plans, the belief that hormone therapy is exclusive to women, concerns about increased cancer risks and more. "When I first started my career as an emergency room nurse, far too often I would see patients come in and out of the ER, suffering from highly preventable conditions and leaving with only prescribed drugs to band-aid the symptoms," expressed Dr. DeNeui. "As someone who has spent the last decade studying and treating patients with these symptoms, I've learned that we need to transform our healthcare model to prioritize disease prevention rather than disease management. This starts with creating a hub that patients and fellow healthcare professionals can reference to uncover the truths about hormone health and treatment options, which is exactly what this book is." "Hormone Havoc" is not just a book; it's an invitation to embrace the power of hormonal balance and understand the power of hormone therapy. Key highlights include: Realizing and normalizing the fact that individuals don't have to live with sleeplessness, low energy, diminished libido or mood swings. Revealing practical methods to shield individuals from chronic illnesses. Discovering actionable strategies that empower patients to proactively safeguard their health, effectively reducing the risk of chronic diseases and ensuring a healthier, happier life. Understanding that aging doesn't have to be unbearable. Learning how to maintain youthful vitality, cognitive sharpness and overall wellness as individuals navigate the journey of aging. "In the course of my own journey, I have worked with various practitioners, each contributing their unique expertise. However, it is Terri who has left an indelible mark on my life," said Actor, Philanthropist and Women's Health Advocate Kelly LeBrock. "Through her EVEXIAS Medical Centers and the EVEXIAS Healthcare Solutions providers she has trained, Terri has fostered places where individuals can find solace and healing, allowing them to transcend the chaos of hormone havoc' and discover what I call 'hormone harmony'." What initially began as a memoir of Dr. DeNeui's life, touching on her bootstrap journey to success, "Hormone Havoc" evolved into a powerful resource that not only reflects her personal experiences but also serves as a roadmap for others to embark on their own journeys to better hormone health. From first-hand patient encounters to her creation of the EvexiPEL Method, the only patented hormone replacement therapy pellet developed in an FDA-registered facility and formulated with triamcinolone, the book is expected to be nationally appreciated and to serve as a guide for hormone health initiatives within the medical community. "Hormone Havoc", published by Holland Robinson Agency, is now available for purchase on Kindle through Amazon. The official book launch celebration will take place on November 2 in Southlake, Texas, which will be an exciting opportunity for readers and healthcare enthusiasts to engage with Dr. DeNeui, gain valuable insights into hormone health, and celebrate this significant milestone in the field of healthcare and wellness. For more details about the official book launch celebration and to stay updated on Dr. DeNeui's upcoming events, please visit HormoneHavoc.com. About Terri DeNeui, DNP, APRN, ACNP-BC Dr. Terri DeNeui is the Founder of EVEXIAS Health Solutions, creator of the EvexiPEL Method, owner of EVEXIAS Medical Centers, and a board-certified nurse practitioner, nationally renowned speaker, author, and entrepreneur. Her new book, "Hormone Havoc," is the essential guide for patients and practitioners seeking to understand hormone health and achieve true hormone optimization and truly know why ignoring our hormones has been a detriment to health and quality of life. Dr. DeNeui holds advanced certifications in Hormone Replacement Therapy, Preventive Wellness Medicine, and Functional Medicine. Dr. DeNeui earned her bachelor's degree in nursing from Texas Women's University in Denton, Texas, and achieved both her master's and doctorate degrees in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington in Arlington, Texas. Contact Information: Sarah Caro O'Connell & Goldberg PR [email protected] 954.964.9098 SOURCE: EVEXIAS Health Solutions View source version on accesswire.com: With the addition of the concierge retainer package, the Boston-based IT consulting company ensures businesses have on-demand access to complete desktop management support BOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / M&H Consulting, located in Boston, Massachusetts, is proud to announce the development of a new support plan for small- and mid-sized businesses in need of skilled IT support and development. The Concierge Retainer Package (CRP) provides businesses with access to a comprehensive suite of standard on-site and off-site desktop management services, with proactive discounts that help keep costs down and systems up and running. The CRP is available to cover multiple devices, including physical computing and networking technology, with a 10% quantity discount added for 10+ devices, 20% for 20+ devices, and 25% for 50+ devices. Services include (but are not limited to): Tech support and problem resolution Remote system monitoring via Pulseway Anti-virus subscriptions On-site support for issues that cannot be resolved remotely Free hardware replacements for hardware under manufacturer warranty Businesses enrolled in the concierge plan pay a flat monthly consulting fee, with no-cost travel for on-site support. Additional services such as Managed Detection Response (MDR) can be added on as needed for a per-workstation fee, with automatic discounts for specialty support services like Tech For a Day. M&H Consulting IT services help meet the urgent need that today's small and mid-sized businesses have for reliable technology support, with specialized services that keep hardware and software updated and healthy while also supporting scalability for long-term system growth. Clients who participate in the concierge plan get a number of additional perks as well, such as on-demand access to professional and highly trained desktop management specialists. All-at-once maintenance, regular critical security updates, and increased workforce productivity further improve operational peace of mind and keep businesses on track to meet their goals. In order to qualify for support under the concierge plan, devices must be no older than five years old and must still be under manufacturer support. All operating systems must also be supported by OS. New hardware installations are not included but are available on request for an additional fee. CRP clients are able to keep their IT budgets in check with a single flat monthly fee for service and proactive maintenance discounts. Currently, M&H Consulting is offering one to three-year contracts for businesses, with price differences based on the specifics of the plan selected. Some services, including support on weekends or holidays or support outside of M&H Consulting's business hours of Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., are charged separately. Interested readers are encouraged to contact M&H Consulting to learn more about the new concierge package. Services are available for businesses throughout the U.S. and include dedicated support from M&H Consulting's team of qualified IT consultants. Please contact M&H Consulting today for additional information on CRP pricing, services, and system requirements. About M&H Consulting M&H Consulting, founded in 2001, is a full-service IT consulting company based out of Boston, Massachusetts, and serving towns and cities throughout the Greater Boston area and New England. With an experienced team of IT professionals, M&H Consulting provides small and mid-sized businesses with on- and off-site IT support, with services that include desktop and network management, IT project management, fully managed computer support, and more. For more information, please visit www.massachusettsitservices.com. Contact: M&H Consulting (866) 964-8324 Send a direct message Contact Information Gavin Mish Partner (866) 964-8324 SOURCE: M&H Consulting View source version on accesswire.com: HALIFAX, NS / ACCESSWIRE / September 27, 2023 / Today, MedMira Inc. (MedMira) (TSXV:MIR) provides an update on its progress to achieve regulatory approval in Canada and the USA for its infectious disease rapid tests. Currently the Company has two submissions filed with Health Canada and one submission with the US FDA. In addition, the Company is in the process to complete its clinical trials and subsequently gather all necessary data for the final submission of its Reveal TP (Syphilis) antibody test and its Reveal G4 rapid HIV antibody test. Further updates will follow in the course of the next weeks. Canada Regulatory Progress MedMira has taken important steps by submitting two product applications toward gaining Health Canada approvals. The company's primary goal is to combat the increasing prevalence of infectious diseases in Canada and meet the rising demand for such solutions in the country. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the urgent need for rapid testing, resulting in a significant surge in public demand for quick and affordable testing methods. These cost-effective and rapid testing options are vital to alleviate the strain on our healthcare system. In the month of September, MedMira received the first communication with regard to the submission made in June 2023. The agency has provided valuable feedback, and MedMira's regulatory and compliance team promptly responded with comprehensive answers within the required ten business days. USA Regulatory Progress MedMira continued its US FDA clinical work for to achieve the CLIA waiver for its already US FDA PMA approved HIV rapid test. The designation of a CLIA Waiver will allow the Company to significantly extend the sales of its already existing product to screening programs supported by various State funded agencies, non-CLIA waived laboratories and other health care providers. This new designation will significantly amplify the potential market, elevating it from the current USD$2 million to a substantial USD$350 million per annum. The primary purpose of obtaining FDA clearance for the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) Waiver is to make simple and easy-to-use diagnostic tests more readily available in various healthcare settings, such as physician's offices, clinics, and pharmacies. This allows for quicker and more convenient testing for patients and can be particularly important for point-of-care testing and rapid diagnostics. At this stage, the Company has submitted the first label claim through the 510(k) process for its HIV-2 component which is an integral part to achieve the CLIA waiver. MedMira has completed its clinical trial study in the Ivory Coast with a sensitivity of 100% for HIV-1 and an outstanding 98.18% for HIV-2. In addition, MedMira's Reveal G4 rapid HIV antibody test achieved a flawless 100% specificity and was reactive in early HIV-1 infections and seroconverts. "We are enthusiastic about the prospect of our continued collaboration with Health Canada, and the FDA. While the high sensitivity and specificity of our tests has been confirmed over the years from the different sources, it is always an accomplishment to have the high quality of our products independently re-confirmed." said Hermes Chan, CEO of MedMira Inc. "While the Company cannot guarantee the timeline for the review of our product submissions from the regulatory agencies, our team is dedicated to respond to any inquiry within the shortest possible time to achieve the approvals." About MedMira MedMira is a leading developer and manufacturer of Rapid Vertical Flow Technology diagnostics. The Company's tests provide hospitals, labs, clinics and individuals with instant disease diagnosis, such as HIV, syphilis, hepatitis and SARS-CoV-2, in just three easy steps. The Company's tests are sold globally under the Reveal, REVEALCOVID-19, Multiplo and Miriad brands. Based on its patented Rapid Vertical Flow Technology, MedMira's rapid HIV test is the only one in the world to achieve regulatory approvals in Canada, the United States, China and the European Union. MedMira's corporate offices and manufacturing facilities are located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. For more information visit www.medmira.com and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn . This news release contains forwardalooking statements, which involve risk and uncertainties and reflect the Company's current expectation regarding future events, including statements regarding possible regulatory approval, product launch, future growth, and new business opportunities. Actual events could materially differ from those projected herein and depend on a number of factors including, but not limited to, changing market conditions, successful and timely completion of clinical studies, uncertainties related to the regulatory approval process, establishment of corporate alliances and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company quarterly filings. 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. Media Contacts: MedMira, Inc. Markus Meile Chief Financial Officer [email protected] SOURCE: MedMira, Inc. View source version on accesswire.com: The Toledo Clinic uses cloud-based RCM solution to reduce days in accounts receivable (A/R) by more than 21% WESTBOROUGH, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- eClinicalWorks, the largest ambulatory cloud EHR, today announced that The Toledo Clinic a private multi-specialty physician group in Toledo, OH has successfully leveraged eClinicalWorks Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) Optimization Services. With RCM, the clinic has substantially reduced its days in accounts receivable (A/R). This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928103961/en/ The Toledo Clinic Optimizes Revenue with eClinicalWorks EHR and RCM Optimization Services (Photo: Business Wire) The Toledo Clinic offers patients personalized care thanks to the expertise of approximately 280 physicians and associated healthcare professionals across more than 40 different specialties. This unique collaboration has allowed the clinic to provide state-of-the-art healthcare. The eClinicalWorks RCM Optimization Services offers practices, in-depth analyses, guidance, and recommendations to improve and optimize RCM operations. These services help practices like The Toledo Clinic to better monitor staff productivity, improve days in A/R, and increase efficiency. System evaluation: eClinicalWorks specialists work with practices to review their billing system setup, front and back-office workflows, and use of automation tools. eClinicalWorks specialists work with practices to review their billing system setup, front and back-office workflows, and use of automation tools. Workflow implementation: eClinicalWorks develops training materials and engages directly with the end users to ensure RCM goals are met. eClinicalWorks develops training materials and engages directly with the end users to ensure RCM goals are met. Workflow assessment: eClinicalWorks analyzes and evaluates workflow gaps to establish best practices and propose operational changes. With over 280 providers, we wanted to streamline the statement and collection process, said Robin Horani, director of revenue cycle management of The Toledo Clinic. With the eClinicalWorks EHR and the additional features it provides, everything is streamlined in one place. We kept going back to the Optimization Team because this process was hands down better than anything else weve used. They allowed us to ask questions and review processes to find the most efficient manner to use them within eClinicalWorks. We have reduced our days in A/R compared to last year by 21%. With eClinicalWorks, The Toledo Clinic has access to Robotic Process Automation (RPA) features, or bots, to improve efficiency and reduce human errors to keep up with industry standards amid nationwide staffing challenges. RPA streamlines routine tasks in RCM workflows. Learn more about the eClinicalWorks suite of health IT solutions at www.eclinicalworks.com. About The Toledo Clinic The Toledo Clinic promotes healthcare and provides integrated, high-quality primary and specialty care to Toledo and surrounding communities. It is the clinic's goal for community members to receive personalized care from their doctor in their own neighborhood office but also with each visit, we deliver the expertise of approximately 280 physicians and associated healthcare professionals across more than 40 different specialties. For more information, visit www.toledoclinic.com. About eClinicalWorks eClinicalWorks was founded in 1999 to help digitize paper charts for ambulatory practices. Today, eClinicalWorks leads the nation in innovation with cloud-based solutions for Electronic Health Records and Practice Management. In addition, we help ambulatory practices, specialists, health centers, urgent care facilities, and hospital systems manage their revenue cycle, patient relationships, and Population Health initiatives. More than 150,000 providers and nearly 1 million medical professionals rely upon the power and scalability of the eCW Cloud for flexible clinical documentation, better front-office workflows, and more efficient billing driven by Robotic Process Automation. We combine innovation, leading-edge technology, and a commitment to patient safety to enable practices to grow and thrive amid the challenges of 21st-century healthcare. For more information, visit www.eclinicalworks.com, follow us on Facebook and Twitter, or call (866) 888-6929. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928103961/en/ eClinicalWorks Bhakti Shah 508-330-6935 [email protected] Source: eClinicalWorks SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Clemson University, one of the nations most active research institutions, has selected the YuJa Panorama Digital Accessibility Platform to enhance the accessibility of digital media and course content and to drive inclusivity campuswide. Located in Clemson, South Carolina, the university serves over 26,000 undergraduate and graduate students across over 80 major and 90 minor degree programs. The institution, which was using a combination of several alternative tools, was seeking a more robust accessibility solution that integrates directly with Canvas, the schools learning management system (LMS). After a rigorous review of other technology and tools, the institution selected YuJa Panorama. Key drivers in their decision were that YuJa Panorama encourages and verifies the accessibility of files loaded into Canvas as well as provides institutional and departmental analytics that can be used to guide training and support efforts. In addition, providing students with the ability to download content in alternate formats was critical. YuJa Panorama automatically generates accessible versions of all uploaded documents and provides users with customized website accessibility profiles that can be applied to any webpage. We are excited to partner with Clemson University as they expand their commitment to accessibility, said Nathan Arora, Chief Business Officer at YuJa, Inc. Integrating accessibility throughout your institution isn't only about compliance; it's a commitment to creating an inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive. ABOUT CLEMSON UNIVERSITY For over 130 years, Clemson University has shown unwavering dedication to the people of South Carolina. The University was founded with a land-grant mission and innovative vision to increase the material resources of the State as a high seminary of learning. Since then, the University has grown in esteem and impact, earning the R1 classification as one of the nations most active research institutions, developing international leaders and instilling our core values of honesty, integrity and respect in more than 160,000 graduates. ABOUT YUJA, INC. YuJa is a leader in ed-tech solutions. Our platforms provide organizations of all sizes with the tools to educate, engage, inspire and collaborate. We serve learning enterprises within all sectors, including higher-ed, K-12, government, healthcare, non-profit and corporate. We have legal headquarters in Delaware with primary U.S. offices in Silicon Valley, California, and Canadian offices in Toronto. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928991798/en/ Hannah Johnson 1-888-257-2278 Source: YuJa, Inc. CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Equity Commonwealth (NYSE: EQC) announced today that the company will release its third quarter 2023 operating results on Monday, October 30, 2023, after the close of trading. A conference call to discuss those results will be held on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, at 9:00 am Central Time. The conference call will be available via live audio webcast on the Investor Relations section of the companys website (www.eqcre.com). A replay of the audio webcast will also be available following the call. About Equity Commonwealth Equity Commonwealth (NYSE: EQC) is a Chicago based, internally managed and self-advised real estate investment trust (REIT) with commercial office properties in the United States. EQCs portfolio is comprised of 4 properties totaling 1.5 million square feet. Regulation FD Disclosures We use any of the following to comply with our disclosure obligations under Regulation FD: press releases, SEC filings, public conference calls, or our website. We routinely post important information on our website at www.eqcre.com, including information that may be deemed to be material. We encourage investors and others interested in the company to monitor these distribution channels for material disclosures. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928997480/en/ Investor Contact Bill Griffiths, (312) 646-2801 Source: Equity Commonwealth LUXEMBOURG--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Sisvel International S.A. (Sisvel) today announced that Huawei patents will now be available through its Cellular IoT technology patent pool after the company signed up to the programme as a licensor. The agreement means that more world class IP has been added to a pool which already includes patents from around 25 renowned innovators. At the same time, Sisvel has revealed new royalty rates for the Cellular IoT patent pool, including for devices with a lower selling price. The firm has also expanded its offering to new product verticals. Please see link for more details. The Sisvel Cellular IoT patent pool offers device manufacturers licences - on fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory terms and conditions - to participants patent portfolios essential to the LTE-M and NB-IoT standards. We are excited to welcome Huawei, a major contributor to the development of cellular IoT, as a member, says Sisvels Cellular IoT programme manager, Sven Torringer. LTE-M and NB-IoT technologies are great solutions for anyone who wishes to connect products and services in the IoT arena, and Huaweis presence further strengthens the pools licence offering as a one-stop shop for this market. I am proud to welcome Huawei to this important pool, which is poised to bring unparalleled efficiencies to both implementers and innovators in IoT markets, says Sisvel president Mattia Fogliacco. This is more proof of the work we are doing with cutting-edge companies to power innovation and a further sign of Huaweis confidence in us, after they became a founding member of our Wi-Fi 6 pool. Further information about the terms and conditions of this licence offer is available on Sisvels website https://www.sisvel.com/licensing-programmes/iot/cellular-iot/. For more details, contact Sisvel at: [email protected]. About Huawei Founded in 1987, Huawei is a leading global provider of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure and smart devices. We have 207,000 employees and we operate in more than 170 countries and regions, serving more than three billion people around the world. Our vision and mission is to bring digital to every person, home and organization for a fully connected, intelligent world. To this end, we will work towards ubiquitous connectivity and inclusive network access, laying the foundation for an intelligent world; provide diversified computing power where you need it, when you need it, to bring cloud and intelligence to all four corners of the earth; build digital platforms to help all industries and organizations become more agile, efficient, and dynamic; and redefine user experience with AI, making it smarter and more personalized for people in all aspects of their life, whether they're at home, on the go, in the office, having fun, or working out. For more information, please visit Huawei online at www.huawei.com or follow us on: http://www.linkedin.com/company/Huawei http://www.twitter.com/Huawei http://www.facebook.com/Huawei http://www.youtube.com/Huawei About Sisvel Sisvel is driven by a belief in the importance of collaboration, ingenuity and efficiency to bridge the needs of patent owners and those who wish to access their technologies. In a complex and constantly evolving marketplace, our guiding principle is to create a level playing field with the development and implementation of flexible, accessible, commercialisation solutions. We Power Innovation www.sisvel.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/sisvel-group https://twitter.com/sisvelgroup View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230927917883/en/ Sisvel Media Contact Giulia Dini Communications Manager Tel: +34 93 131 5570 [email protected] Source: Sisvel International S.A. HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- On Tuesday, September 19, the City Council of Pasadena, Texas appointed Mr. Alan A. Robb as Port Commissioner of the Port of Houston Authority to serve on behalf of the city beginning October 1, 2023. Current commissioner Roy D. Mease will be stepping down at month end. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928898811/en/ Alan A. Robb has been appointed to serve on the Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority, effective October 1. The President of the ILA, South Atlantic and Gulf Coast District, AFL-CIO, will serve on the Port Commission through February 1, 2025. (Photo: Business Wire) A respected labor union leader, Mr. Robb is a 47-year International Longshoremens Association (ILA) veteran. Mr. Robb currently serves as President of the ILA, South Atlantic and Gulf Coast District, AFL-CIO. The district represents ILA members on the Atlantic Coast from North Carolina to Florida and along the Gulf Coast from Florida to Texas. Mr. Robb has also served as Assistant General Organizer of the ILA since 2015, was named ILA National Educational Director in 2013, and for the past eleven years has served on the board of the ILAs Civil Rights Committee. A native of Houston, Mr. Robb began as an ILA longshoreman in 1976, and is a past board member of Houstons East End Chamber of Commerce, the Houston Maritime Museum, Matrix Energy, and the Maritime Workers Emergency Relief Fund. We sincerely appreciate the service of outgoing Port Commissioner Roy Mease, and we look forward to having Alan Robb join us as a new Port Commissioner, said Chairman Ric Campo. We are confident that Alans representation of Pasadena, and the dedicated men and women who help move cargo and goods through the Houston Ship Channel, the nations busiest waterway, will contribute an invaluable perspective to the Commission, as we work to shape and guide the future of Port Houston and the Houston Ship Channel. I am deeply honored to have been bestowed this privilege to represent the best interests of the Houston Ship Channel on behalf of Pasadena, labor, industry, and the communities we serve, said Mr. Robb. I extend my sincerest appreciation to Pasadena Mayor Jeff Wagner and members of the City Council for this appointment, and I look forward to working with Chairman Ric Campo and the other Port Commissioners as we work together for the greater good. Port Commissioners serve two-year terms as unpaid volunteers. Mr. Robbs tenure as a Port Commissioner is effective October 1 through February 1, 2025. About Port Houston For more than 100 years, Port Houston has owned and operated the public wharves and terminals along the Houston Ship Channel, including the areas largest breakbulk facility and two of the most efficient container terminals in the country. Port Houston is the advocate and a strategic leader for the Channel. The Houston Ship Channel complex and its more than 200 private and eight public terminals is the nations largest port for waterborne tonnage and an essential economic engine for the Houston region, the state of Texas and the U.S. The Port of Houston supports the creation of nearly 1.5 million jobs in Texas and 3.37 million jobs nationwide, and economic activity totaling $439 billion in Texas and $906 billion in economic impact across the nation. For more information, visit the website at PortHouston.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928898811/en/ Lisa Ashley-Daniels, Director, Public Relations, Office: 713-670-2644; Mobile: 832-247-8179; E-mail: [email protected] Source: Port Houston NAIROBI, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Scientists from China and African countries on Wednesday pledged greater cooperation to attain some of the objectives of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) including food security and ecosystem health. The scientists in their resolutions adopted at the end of a symposium held in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi stressed that collaboration in key areas like research, technology transfer and skills upgrade will be key to transforming economies and revitalizing habitat conservation. Nearly 100 Chinese and African scientists attended the Sept. 25-27 symposium, titled "South-South Cooperation: China-Africa Science and Technology Cooperation and Innovation for Social and Economic Benefits." The three-day conference was organized by the African Union Development Agency, the New Partnership for Africa's Development (AUDA-NEPAD), the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), and the Mission of China to the African Union. Some of the symposium participants from governments, Pan African and Chinese research entities discussed enhanced collaboration in three key areas including food systems transformation, biodiversity conservation and water management. The scientists who reiterated their commitment to cooperation under the BRI pledged to establish a platform to foster research, innovation and knowledge sharing to attain the broader sustainability agenda. "We propose to hold an international forum every three years, being held in China and African countries, to exchange scientific and technological innovation achievements including the evaluation of the effectiveness of technology applications, and adjust development priorities accordingly," the scientists said in a communique. In addition, the scientists promised to launch the "Africa Food-Water-Environment Protection and Scientific Development Action," with the aim of promoting food security, prudent use of water resources, and enhanced protection of habitats. Some of the priority areas for Sino-African scientific collaboration to spur green growth covering 2024-2027 include technical support and training of farmers, application of new irrigation and post-harvest storage technologies, research on new water and biodiversity conservation techniques, read the communique. LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Manufacturers Bank, a subsidiary of SMBC Americas Holdings, Inc., a member of SMBC Group, announced that it will be changing its name to SMBC MANUBANK as it expands into new markets and industries, and highlighting its decades-long affiliation with Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, a global leader in finance and innovation. Earlier this year, the bank launched Jenius Bank, a digital division catering to U.S. consumers nationwide that offers personal loans with plans to provide savings accounts and a mobile app in the coming months. Manufacturers Bank has been a long-term contributor to the community, and the launch of its new consumer digital division, Jenius Bank, is one more way that we seek to add value for our customers," said Hiro Otsuka, CEO of SMBC Group in the Americas. The rebranding of Manufacturers Bank demonstrates our commitment to building strong client and community relationships across SMBC Group. Were proud to be part of SMBCs rich history and legacy of trust, strength, and stability spanning more than 400 years, said Manufacturers Bank Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Kazuhisa Miyagawa. Becoming SMBC MANUBANK will deepen that relationship and elevate our brand recognition among current and prospective clients including those in the Japanese business community. The SMBC MANUBANK branding will reflect the visual identity of SMBC Group companies around the world, at the same time maintaining unique qualities such as concierge service and access to local decision makers that differentiate the commercial bank from its competitors. While the name will change, ownership, management, and operations of the bank will remain unchanged. Our focus heading into the banks new era as SMBC MANUBANK is to be the Gateway to Growth for our clients, communities, and colleagues, said Sander Pruijs, Manufacturers Bank President. We are and will always be client-first. Other exciting aspects of this transformation will see us streamlining our Commercial Banking processes, investing in digital technologies, and growing our product offerings to continuously enhance the client experience. ABOUT MANUFACTURERS BANK Founded in 1962, Manufacturers Bank is a California state-chartered commercial bank based in Los Angeles and is a wholly owned subsidiary of SMBC Americas Holdings, Inc., a member of SMBC Group. Manufacturers Bank serves the specialized needs of middle-market businesses, manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, importers, exporters, and service companies. For more information, please visit www.manufacturersbank.com. ABOUT SMBC GROUP SMBC Group is a top-tier global financial group. Headquartered in Tokyo and with a 400-year history, SMBC Group offers a diverse range of financial services, including banking, leasing, securities, credit cards, and consumer finance. The Group has more than 150 offices and 86,000 employees worldwide in nearly 40 countries. Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc. (SMFG) is the holding company of SMBC Group, which is one of the three largest banking groups in Japan. SMFGs shares trade on the Tokyo, Nagoya, and ADRs on the New York (NYSE: SMFG) stock exchanges. In the Americas, SMBC Group has a presence in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Peru. Backed by the capital strength of SMBC Group and the value of its relationships in Asia, the Group offers a range of commercial and investment banking services to its corporate, institutional, and municipal clients. It connects a diverse client base to local markets and the organizations extensive global network. The Groups operating companies in the Americas include Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp. (SMBC), SMBC Nikko Securities America, Inc., SMBC Nikko Securities Canada, Ltd., SMBC Capital Markets, Inc., SMBC Rail Services LLC, Manufacturers Bank, JRI America, Inc., SMBC Leasing and Finance, Inc., Banco Sumitomo Mitsui Brasileiro S.A., and Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing Co., Ltd. For more information, please visit www.smbcgroup.com. ABOUT JENIUS BANK Now open to customers, Jenius Bank has a mission to help people build a richer life through actionable insights and innovative tools powered by best-in-class technology. The bank currently offers personal loans, with a savings product and mobile app launching in the coming months. Jenius Bank is the digital division of Manufacturers Bank, a California state chartered commercial bank that is a wholly owned subsidiary of SMBC Americas Holdings, Inc., a member of SMBC Group. The Jenius Bank team works remotely across 39 states but also maintains offices for team collaboration in Phoenix, Arizona; Los Angeles, California; New York, New York; and Charlotte, North Carolina. To learn more information about Jenius Bank and to join its waitlist for checking and savings products, visit www.jeniusbank.com. Member FDIC Equal Opportunity Lender Equal Housing Lender View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928063564/en/ Dean Bui Executive Director Marketing & Product Development Manager 213-489-6286 Source: Manufacturers Bank WALTHAM, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Naveris, Inc. , the leader in precision oncology diagnostics for viral-induced cancers, today announced that the company will be attending The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNSF) 2023 Annual Meeting in Nashville, Tenn., from September 30-October 4 and The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) 2023 Annual Meeting in San Diego, Calif., from October 1-4. Naveris will be exhibiting at both meetings, providing the latest information on NavDx, Naveris proprietary flagship blood test for tumor tissue modified viral (TTMV)-HPV DNA. NavDx is the first and only clinically validated circulating tumor HPV DNA blood test that provides a non-invasive and precise method for detecting molecular residual disease (MRD) before there is clinical or radiographical evidence of cancer recurrence. The company will also highlight its TTMV-DNA platform in abstracts selected for oral presentation at both meetings. There is growing enthusiasm for the use of NavDx in daily practice across the continuum of HPV-driven OPSCC care, especially in the surveillance setting, said Barry M. Berger, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Naveris. We look forward to this new data at the upcoming AAO-HNSF and ASTRO conferences, adding to the accumulation of compelling evidence that is driving clinical adoption of NavDx. Following are details of the abstract that has been accepted for an oral presentation at AAO-HNSF 2023: Detecting HPV-Driven Oropharyngeal Carcinoma Recurrence Using Circulating Tumor HPV DNA Authors: Thakkar, P. G., et al. Presenting Author: Shakhtour, L. Scientific Session: Scientific Oral Presentations 3 Head and Neck Surgery Session Date/Time: October 2, 2023 | 8:00AM - 9:00AM CST Following are details of the abstract that has been accepted for an oral presentation at ASTRO 2023: A phase II trial evaluating rapid mid-treatment nodal shrinkage to select for adaptive deescalation in p16+ oropharyngeal cancer patients undergoing definitive chemoradiation Authors: Kim, J., et al. Presenter: Kim, J. Scientific Session: SS 23, H&N 2: Virus-Associated Head & Neck Cancers: From Screening to Treatment Session Date/Time: October 3, 2023 | 2:30PM - 3:30PM PST This second abstract was also selected for inclusion in the Head & Neck Cancer Science Highlights session, taking place Tuesday, October 3, 2023 from 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM at the San Diego Convention Center, Room 1, as part of Session SH 03: Science Highlights 3 Head & Neck Cancer. Naveris and NavDx will be on exhibit at AAO-HNSF 2023 at Booth #608 and at ASTRO 2023 at Booth #3325. About Naveris Naveris is a privately held, commercial stage, precision oncology diagnostics company with facilities in Massachusetts and North Carolina. Since its founding in 2017, Naveris has been committed to improving outcomes for the millions of people at risk of developing viral-induced cancers with novel molecular diagnostics that enable earlier cancer detection. The company operates high-complexity testing clinical laboratories that are accredited by the College of American Pathologists and the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center, and are certified under CLIA. For more information on Naveris and the clinical impact of NavDx, please visit www.naveris.com and www.NavDx.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928347753/en/ Megan Kernan ICR Westwicke Healthcare PR Tel: 646.677.1870 [email protected] Source: Naveris, Inc. BERKELEY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Novel Farms, Inc., a food technology startup based in Berkeley, California, has been awarded the highly competitive Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II grant by the National Science Foundation (NSF). The $999,967 two-year grant is a testament to Novel Farms' groundbreaking work in the field of cultivated meat production and will provide critical funding to support the scale-up of their proprietary scaffolding platform. This innovative platform leverages a novel microbial fermentation approach and tissue engineering techniques to significantly reduce the costs associated with cultivated meat. At the core of this project lies the ambition to address the profound sustainability and public health challenges posed by conventional industrial animal agriculture. By developing more efficient and economical ways to produce real meat directly from animal cells i.e., cultivated meat, Novel Farms aims to disrupt the current damaging meat production paradigm. The primary challenge faced by the cultivated meat industry is the cost of cell culture media, which must be competitive with conventional meat production to establish cultivated meat as a viable alternative. To confront this challenge head-on, Novel Farms' Phase II project is geared towards further lowering media costs by eliminating costly components through the continued refinement of their proprietary scaffolding technology. This crucial funding injection will empower the company to expand its scientific team and transition its processes from bench scale to bioreactor scalea pivotal step towards establishing an efficient and scalable cultivated meat production system. Dr. Michelle Lu, Co-Founder and CSO of Novel Farms, commented, "During our Phase I efforts, we demonstrated the feasibility and capabilities of our innovative structuring platform, exemplified by the development of a marbled and structured cultivated pork prototype. This progress, coupled with our unwavering commitment to scientific rigor, has laid a solid foundation that has garnered recognition through this competitive award." "We are proud to be rooted in fundamental research and are grateful for NSF's recognition of the disruptive potential of our scaffolding platform," said Dr. Nieves Martinez Marshall, CEO of Novel Farms. About Novel Farms. Novel Farms is on a mission to redefine the future of food with a dedicated focus on crafting whole cuts of cultivated meat. Their vision encompasses both culinary excellence and sustainability, aiming to cater to the diverse palates of meat enthusiasts while also meeting the expectations of environmentally-conscious consumers. About Americas Seed Fund. Americas Seed Fund powered by the National Science Foundation (NSF) awards $200 million annually to startups and small businesses, transforming scientific discovery into products and services with commercial and societal impact. Startups working across almost all areas of science and technology can receive up to $2 million in non-dilutive funds to support research and development (R&D), helping de-risk technology for commercial success. Americas Seed Fund is congressionally mandated through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. For more information, visit seedfund.nsf.gov. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928621624/en/ Media & Investors Contact. For more information about Novel Farms, please contact: [email protected] Source: Novel Farms, Inc. Enjoy Specials on Bold, Tex-Mex Tacos, Ice-Cold Beer and Catering on October 4 DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina, the worlds largest Mexican casual dining brand, is celebrating National Taco Day on Wednesday, October 4, by offering guests specials on tacos and beer. With deals starting at $2, there is an option for every taste and budget. Guests can pair $2 classic or $4 premium tacos with $3 ice-cold bottled beer on October 4 at participating locations. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928210934/en/ On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina, the worlds largest Mexican casual dining brand, is celebrating National Taco Day on Wednesday, October 4. The bold Tex-Mex restaurant brand is offering guests specials on tacos and beer starting at $2. Pictured here are Seasoned Ground Beef Tacos that guests can enjoy for only $2 each. Other specials include $4 premium tacos and $3 ice-cold bottled beer. These offers are good only on October 4 at participating On The Border locations. (Photo: Business Wire) Were excited to celebrate National Taco Day with our guests by offering specials on tacos and beer, says Tim Ward, CEO at On The Border. Whether youre craving brisket, chicken, or even something a little more classic, we have affordable and delicious tacos for you! $2, $3, $4 Taco and Beer Deals $2 Classic Taco Chicken Tinga, Seasoned Ground Beef and Veggie Chicken Tinga, Seasoned Ground Beef and Veggie $3 Bottled Beer $4 Southwest Chicken Taco Mesquite-grilled chicken, cheddar cheese, creamy red chile sauce and fried onion strings in warm, hand-pressed flour tortillas. Mesquite-grilled chicken, cheddar cheese, creamy red chile sauce and fried onion strings in warm, hand-pressed flour tortillas. $4 Brisket Taco Shredded beef brisket, Jack cheese, fried onion strings and jalapeno-BBQ sauce in warm, hand-pressed flour tortillas. Our menu always delivers an authentic Mexican food experience with vibrant flavors, and our National Taco Day specials are no exception, adds Ward. While visiting any one of our more than 130 restaurant locations, you can expect Mesquite-grilled, bold flavors, quality service and a fun, friendly environment. Catering Discount for National Taco Day On The Border has been catering since 1994. Guests can enjoy taco bars, fajita buffets, customizable party platters, and more for 15% off orders of $150 or more when booked between Oct. 2-8, 2023, with code NTD23. Catering orders can be placed for pick-up, delivery, or full-service with banquet equipment, tablecloths and decor, plus On The Border team members who set-up, serve, and breakdown the event. For more, visit www.ontheborder.com/catering/. About On The Border Founded in 1982, On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina is the world's largest Mexican casual dining brand. Known for its award-winning margaritas, house-made salsa, and sizzling mesquite-grilled fajitas, On The Border is a fan-favorite destination for authentic, contemporary Mexican food and vibrant good times. With 134 restaurants in the U.S. and internationally, theres always a fiesta waiting at On The Border. For more information, visit ontheborder.com and follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928210934/en/ Renee Cossman, [email protected]. Source: On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina Seventh Annual Report Found 94% of Employees Are Open to Going to the Office, Even if Theyre Only Spending a Few Hours Coffee Badging BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Owl Labs, the first company to build AI-powered, 360-degree video conferencing solutions for hybrid organizations, today released its seventh annual State of Hybrid Work Report, previously known as the State of Remote Work. Owl Labs surveyed 2,000 full-time workers in the United States to uncover the latest trends and perspectives around remote and hybrid work, from polyworking to coffee badging. This year's report reveals the current return to office divide, with employers putting their energy into calling people back, but missing the mark on what their employees really need from the in-office or hybrid experience. The annual return to office power struggle that happens each fall has arrived yet again, as were seeing companies beg, entice and force their employees to show their faces around the watercooler even if its against their will, said Frank Weishaupt, CEO of Owl Labs. People dont want to spend time and money on frequent office pilgrimages if theyre just going to be sitting on the same video calls theyd be doing in the comfort of their own homes or on tasks that they feel less productive doing from the office. The data shows that many companies have more work to do to provide an attractive, productive and stress-free office environment that makes employees want to gather. Workers Are Finding Creative Ways Around Return to Office Mandates to Save Time and Money Employers forcing their workers back to the office have been met with all manner of pushback, from open letters and strikes to quiet quitting and actual quitting. More than 2 in 3 workers (69%) believe their employers are requiring them to work from the office because of traditional work expectations, especially when 60% of hybrid workers think theyre more productive when they work from home (30% say they are at the same level of productivity working from home). As employees are being called back to the office yet again, many are subtly protesting by complying for as little time as possible. More than half (58%) of hybrid workers are coffee badging showing up to the office for enough time to have a cup of coffee and earn an imaginary badge for it, then going home to do their work. Another 8% said they haven't been coffee badging but would like to try it. One reason theyre not staying the full day is because it's expensive for them to do so. Workers spend an average of $51 per day when they go to the office, which is $408 for hybrid workers (8 days/month) and $1,020 for full-time office workers per month. Meaning in-office, full-time employees spend 3x as much as full-time remote workers. This includes a daily average of $16 on lunch, $14 on the commute, $13 on breakfast and coffee, and $8 on parking. Those with pets also spend an average of $20 per day on pet care. Commuting time is also likely affecting this trend. With 61% of workers spending 30 minutes to 1.5 hours commuting each day, and 20% spending 1.5 to 2 hours, the office experience needs to make the trip worthwhile. Allowing for flexible hours arriving after morning rush hour and leaving before the evening one could make a significant impact on total daily time spent in transit. Nearly All Employees Could Be Convinced to Go to the Office for the Right Perks Despite their hesitations, 94% of workers are willing to return to the office. But the traditional perks that once worked for luring people there are no longer sufficient. Employees ultimately want what really matters: saving money. More than 1/3 of hybrid workers (38%) would be more likely to go to the office if their companies paid for their commuting costs, while 28% could be swayed by daycare or eldercare subsidies or on-site alternatives, a likely result of the caregiver shortage. Another 28% think there is such a thing as a free lunch, admitting they could be lured by free or subsidized food and beverages. More than 1/3 (34%) said more privacy in the office, likely for individual calls and video meetings, would help draw them back in. Killing the Dress Code Is a Free and Easy Way to Get People To Show Up As companies are cutting costs due to economic uncertainty, those who dont have a budget for these kinds of benefits might consider loosening up their dress codes or killing them altogether. Nearly 3 in 4 employees (72%) said a flexible or non-existent dress code is important to them. About a quarter of all workers (24%) would be enticed to go to the office if they could wear any clothing or styles they choose, with another quarter (25%) saying they would even take a 15% pay cut for the privilege. More Than Half of Business Trips Could Have Been a Video Call Some of the resistance to the office stems from the advancement of videoconferencing technology and increased familiarity with it. Many people believe that in-person meetings often don't offer significantly more value than remote or hybrid alternatives. Only about half (54%) of workers say business trips at their organizations have returned to pre-pandemic levels, with employees of larger companies (250+ people) being 20% more likely to say this compared to their counterparts at smaller businesses. While the average number of business trips per person in 2023 is 4.5, workers say over half of those trips (2.4) could have been held virtually instead. More than 1/3 of companies (38%) have cut back on business trips because video calls work just as well as in-person meetings for many needs. Worker Stress Increased Since Last Year, Taking a Toll on Employees Mental Health While they may be saving time and aggravation at the airport, employees are more stressed than ever, with 56% saying their stress has increased and 35% saying it stayed the same since last year. Full-time office workers are 23 percentage points more likely than remote workers to say their stress levels have gone up in the last year. About 30% say their workload has increased and they cant keep up, and 19% dont feel fairly compensated. Other top reasons for worker stress include recession fears (56%), not having the flexibility they want (55%), being forced to be in the office full-time (52%), and not feeling seen and heard in meetings as a remote participant (51%). Stress can have serious consequences, including disengagement. More than half of workers (52%) say they feel disengaged at work, with 1/3 (31%) citing a decrease in their mental health over the past year as the top reason. Some are choosing to permanently disengage, as almost 1/3 of workers who are currently seeking a new job (30%) are doing it specifically to find a less stressful role. A Quarter of Workers Are Worried AI Will Steal Their Jobs But Half of Them Still Want Their Employers to Use It Another source of stress is the rise of AI and how it may affect job security. About 1/3 of employees (31%) think AI will compete with their jobs, and one in four (23%) are concerned it will steal their jobs altogether. Another third (32%) believe AI will cause ethical issues in their workplaces. More than half of workers (52%) said their employers have already adopted AI technology to replace or augment employees roles. When it comes to technologies that employees want their companies to adopt in the next two years, AI or an AI assistant is at the top of the list, with 48% of workers wanting it. About 44% of employees believe AI will help them do their jobs faster and more effectively, and 35% think it will create new jobs and team growth. Augmented or mixed reality devices are next on the wishlist at 44%, while 38% said they would like to use holograms or avatars in the workplace. Many People Are Juggling Multiple Jobs, With Office Workers and Millennials Most Likely to Polywork In todays economic climate, having multiple jobs or side hustles, also known as polyworking, is becoming more common, especially among millennials. Almost half (46%) of workers are currently polyworking, while another third (36%) plan on doing so in the future. About 74% of millennials have at least one additional job, which is more than any other generation in comparison, 13% of Gen Z, 11% of Gen X, and 2% of Boomers are polyworking. Full-time office employees are more than twice as likely (68%) to have one additional job than remote (5%) and hybrid workers (27%). Of those with an additional job, 39% say they need the additional income to cover expenses, while 33% say their additional job is their true passion, but they need to polywork for financial reasons. To review the full report and detailed findings, please visit owllabs.com/state-of-hybrid-work/2023. To learn more about Owl Labs and its ecosystem of video conferencing solutions for hybrid organizations, visit www.owllabs.com. About Owl Labs: Owl Labs is the first company to build AI-powered, 360-degree video conferencing solutions for hybrid organizations. Its suite of products makes meetings more inclusive and collaborative by leveling the playing field between remote and in-room participants. The companys flagship product, the Meeting Owl 3, is the first WiFi-enabled, 360-degree camera, microphone and speaker that automatically zooms in on whoevers speaking. Owl Labs has raised $47 million in funding and is based in Boston, with remote and hybrid employees all over the world. To learn more, visit OwlLabs.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230927681297/en/ Katharine Riggs Moxie Communications Group [email protected] Source: Owl Labs HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- On Tuesday, September 26, the Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority convened its regular monthly meeting after an August break. During his opening comments, Port Commission Chairman Ric Campo applauded Commissioner Roy Mease, who is stepping down at month end as Port Commissioner representing the City of Pasadena, Texas. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928511032/en/ Congressman Wesley Hunt attends the Port Houston Commission meeting to personally express sincere appreciation for Port Houston and the Houston Ship Channel. He underscored that he and local members of Congress work together for the benefit of the community and the greater good of the Houston region. (Photo: Business Wire) Chairman Campo commended Commissioner Meases years of service and dedication to Port Houston, and added that the Pasadena City Council had appointed International Longshoremen Association Union leader Alan A. Robb to succeed Commissioner Mease, effective October 1. In attendance at the public meeting were community members, non-profit groups, and representatives from industry and maritime partners including the Houston Pilots and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers but a meeting highlight was the appearance of Congressman Wesley Hunt. Congressman Hunt shared that he was there to personally express his sincere appreciation and support for Port Houston and the Houston Ship Channel, underscoring that he and the members of the local Congress delegation all work together doing things for the benefit of our community and the greater good of the Houston region. Chairman Campo thanked Congressman Hunt for his leadership of recent bipartisan efforts to provide for $24 million Community Funded Project funding, to support the ongoing work of the Houston Ship Channel expansion Project 11. In his staff report that followed, Executive Director Roger Guenther remarked that Project 11 continues to move forward: work on the Bayport Channel will be finished later this year, and the 27 miles of ship channel improvements through Galveston Bay should be fully completed by the end of 2024. This project is vital for commerce, jobs, and overall for the future of our region, Guenther stressed. Chairman Campo emphasized Port Houstons mission to create jobs and economic prosperity, remarking that The most important job is that one job a person gets to support his or her family. During his staff report, Guenther updated progress on the community outreach work supporting Project 11. As first noted earlier to the Port Commission, Port Houston staff was looking forward to meeting with scientists and engineers representing the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the Army Corps of Engineers, and community members, with the shared goal of alignment on the facts of dredged material handling and the other work done in the Channel. Guenther said, The Port Houston team has been working with our Federal partners, is ready for that meeting, and welcomes the opportunity to have continued dialogue. Other highlights of Guenthers report included a review of Port Houstons recent business success, and its progress on landside and waterside investments, that continue to keep up with the growth in container and multi-purpose cargo calling the region. Port Houstons latest cargo business report can be found here. The next Port Commission meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 24, at 9:00 a.m. CT. About Port Houston For more than 100 years, Port Houston has owned and operated the public wharves and terminals along the Houston Ship Channel, including the areas largest breakbulk facility and two of the most efficient container terminals in the country. Port Houston is the advocate and a strategic leader for the Channel. The Houston Ship Channel complex and its more than 200 private and eight public terminals is the nations largest port for waterborne tonnage and an essential economic engine for the Houston region, the state of Texas and the U.S. The Port of Houston supports the creation of nearly 1.5 million jobs in Texas and 3.37 million jobs nationwide, and economic activity totaling $439 billion in Texas and $906 billion in economic impact across the nation. For more information, visit the website at PortHouston.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928511032/en/ Lisa Ashley-Daniels, Director, Public Relations, Office: 713-670-2644; Mobile: 832-247-8179; E-mail: [email protected] Source: Port Houston NEWCASTLE & HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- TechnipFMC (NYSE: FTI) has been awarded a significant(1) contract to supply flexible pipes to Petrobras for the pre-salt fields offshore Brazil. The Company will design, engineer, and manufacture 14 kilometers of gas injection riser pipes. TechnipFMC will also supply associated services including packing and storage. Jonathan Landes, President, Subsea at TechnipFMC commented: We have an established team in place who have earned the trust of Petrobras over many years of collaboration. We are delighted to once again work with a valued client to help them ensure success on their projects. (1) For TechnipFMC, a significant contract is between $75 million and $250 million. Important Information for Investors and Securityholders Forward-Looking Statement This release contains "forward-looking statements" as defined in Section 27A of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The words expect, believe, estimated, and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, which are generally not historical in nature. Such forward-looking statements involve significant risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from our historical experience and our present expectations or projections. For information regarding known material factors that could cause actual results to differ from projected results, please see our risk factors set forth in our filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, which include our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports on Form 8-K. We caution you not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any of our forward-looking statements after the date they are made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by law. About TechnipFMC TechnipFMC is a leading technology provider to the traditional and new energy industries, delivering fully integrated projects, products, and services. With our proprietary technologies and comprehensive solutions, we are transforming our clients project economics, helping them unlock new possibilities to develop energy resources while reducing carbon intensity and supporting their energy transition ambitions. Organized in two business segments Subsea and Surface Technologies we will continue to advance the industry with our pioneering integrated ecosystems (such as iEPCI, iFEED and iComplete), technology leadership and digital innovation. Each of our approximately 20,000 employees is driven by a commitment to our clients success, and a culture of strong execution, purposeful innovation, and challenging industry conventions. TechnipFMC uses its website as a channel of distribution of material company information. To learn more about how we are driving change in the industry, go to www.TechnipFMC.com and follow us on X (formerly Twitter) @TechnipFMC. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928658886/en/ Investor relations Matt Seinsheimer Senior Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Development Tel: +1 281 260 3665 Email: Matt Seinsheimer James Davis Director, Investor Relations Tel: +1 281 260 3665 Email: James Davis Media relations Catie Tuley Director, Public Relations Tel: +1 713 876 7296 Email: Catie Tuley David Willis Senior Manager, Public Relations Tel: +44 7841 492988 Email: David Willis Source: TechnipFMC plc TELUS International one of only six CX providers recognized as a Leader in the Americas TELUS International featured on Everest Groups inaugural 2023 Global PEAK Matrix VANCOUVER, British Columbia--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- TELUS International (NYSE and TSX: TIXT), a leading digital customer experience innovator that designs, builds and delivers next-generation solutions, including artificial intelligence (AI) and content moderation, for global and disruptive brands, has been named a Leader in the Americas for a fifth consecutive year by global research and advisory firm, Everest Group, in its Customer Experience Management (CXM) Services PEAK Matrix Assessment 2023. Additionally, TELUS International was recognized as a global provider in Everest Groups inaugural 2023 Global PEAK Matrix assessment. Amidst a backdrop of significant and ongoing evolution in the CX industry over the years, including the introduction of new technologies like GenAI, the growth in popularity of digitally-mediated experiences and environments such as apps, social media and voice-activated devices, and the increased use of automation, it is an honor to be consistently recognized as a Leader for the past five years by Everest Group, said Jeff Puritt, President and CEO, TELUS International. This recurrent recognition is a true testament to the ingenuity and dedication of our global team to continually grow, adapt and enhance our end-to-end capabilities to support the evolving customer journey. It also acknowledges our companys entry and strengthening presence in new geographies, languages, and verticals that further enable us to effectively serve our clients and cater to their diverse requirements. In its 2023 report, Everest Group highlighted the growth in TELUS Internationals digital CX portfolio service capabilities in UI/UX design, growth marketing, full stack app development, data science, and engineering, as well as in its advisory services, including digital strategy, CX process consulting and customer analytics to further enable the digital CX transformation journey for its clients. Everest Group also noted TELUS Internationals integrated suite of proprietary solutions such as its intelligent TELUS International Assistant, Intelligent Insights and Visual IVR, which enable the company to offer personalized, AI-driven experiences for customers. TELUS International offers robust digital CX capabilities, a versatile suite of proprietary solutions, and strategic partnerships with technology providers to drive digital transformation to enhance digital CXM, said Sharang Sharma, Vice President, Everest Group. It also utilizes a balanced shoring strategy, supported by a network of delivery centers located in onshore, nearshore, and offshore locations, enabling it to effectively serve its clients in the North American region. These factors have contributed to TELUS International being designated as a Leader in Everest Group's Customer Experience Management (CXM) Americas PEAK Matrix Assessment 2023. Everest Group evaluated and ranked 54 CXM providers for this years CXM PEAK Matrix Assessment based upon market success, vision and capabilities. Each provider offered a comprehensive look at its service focus, key IP/solutions, domain investments and case studies for the research process as well as provided buyers for reference interviews. Everest Group's PEAK Matrix assessments provide comparative evaluations of providers, locations, and products and solutions within various market segments. Leading organizations around the globe trust these comparative assessments because of their unbiased evaluation of factors such as vision, capabilities/functionality, talent availability, market success/impact, and cost. To learn more about TELUS Internationals leading digital CX solutions in the Americas and globally, please visit: www.telusinternational.com. About TELUS International TELUS International (NYSE & TSX: TIXT) designs, builds and delivers next-generation digital solutions to enhance the customer experience (CX) for global and disruptive brands. The companys services support the full lifecycle of its clients digital transformation journeys, enabling them to more quickly embrace next-generation digital technologies to deliver better business outcomes. TELUS Internationals integrated solutions span digital strategy, innovation, consulting and design, IT lifecycle including managed solutions, intelligent automation and end-to-end AI data solutions including computer vision capabilities, as well as omnichannel CX and trust and safety solutions including content moderation. Fueling all stages of company growth, TELUS International partners with brands across strategic industry verticals, including tech and games, communications and media, ecommerce and fintech, banking, financial services and insurance, healthcare, and others. TELUS Internationals unique caring culture promotes diversity and inclusivity through its policies, team member resource groups and workshops, and equal employment opportunity hiring practices across the regions where it operates. Since 2007, the company has positively impacted the lives of more than 1.2 million citizens around the world, building stronger communities and helping those in need through large-scale volunteer events and charitable giving. Five TELUS International Community Boards have provided $5.3 million in funding to grassroots charitable organizations since 2011. Learn more at: telusinternational.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928937291/en/ TELUS International Investor Relations Jason Mayr (604) 695-3455 [email protected] TELUS International Media Relations Ali Wilson (604) 328-7093 [email protected] Source: TELUS International FHLB Dallas Partnership Grant Program Provides 3:1 Match of Members Donations DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Four Arkansas community-based organizations received $46,000 from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (FHLB Dallas) and three member institutions. A total of $557,250 was awarded to community organizations through its annual Partnership Grant Program (PGP). View the award recipients. With its matching funds, our Partnership Grant Program gives our members added leverage to support local nonprofits, said Greg Hettrick, senior vice president and director of Community Investment at FHLB Dallas. Our members are very supportive of local community organizations, and we are proud to provide funds that help with their endeavors. Under the program, FHLB Dallas member institutions contribute $500 to $4,000 to a nonprofit, which FHLB Dallas matches at a 3:1 ratio to provide up to $12,000 to the organization per member. The awards help promote and strengthen relationships between community-based nonprofits and FHLB Dallas members. The following community-based organizations were supported in Arkansas: Arkansas Valley Habitat for Humanity (Fort Smith, Arkansas) - $16,000 Member: Cadence Bank Jonesboro Urban Renewal and Housing Development Organization (Jonesboro, Arkansas) - $4,000 Member: Cadence Bank (Jonesboro, Arkansas) - $4,000 University District Development Corp. (Little Rock, Arkansas) - $10,000 Member: Simmons Bank Home Again Pine Bluff (Pine Bluff, Arkansas) - $16,000 Member: FBT Bank & Mortgage These organizations make such a huge difference in small towns, said Daniel Pledger, assistant vice president at FBT Bank & Trust. We are proud to help build up our community and keep it going strong. The PGP may be used for: Organizational capacity building Assistance with applying for grants and other funding sources Research and studies Contractual services General operating expenses View this PGP video to see a complete list of the 2023 PGP grant recipients. For more information about the 2023 PGP grants and other FHLB Dallas community investment products and programs, please visit fhlb.com/pgp. About the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas is one of 11 district banks in the FHLBank System created by Congress in 1932. FHLB Dallas, with total assets of $174 billion as of June 30, 2023, is a member-owned cooperative that supports housing and community development by providing competitively priced loans and other credit products to approximately 800 members and associated institutions in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico and Texas. For more information, visit our website at fhlb.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928721860/en/ Corporate Communications Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas fhlb.com (214) 441-8445 Source: Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas FHLB Dallas Partnership Grant Program Provides 3:1 Match of Members Donations DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Mississippi community-based organizations received $166,500 from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (FHLB Dallas) and seven member institutions. A total of $557,250 was awarded to community organizations through its annual Partnership Grant Program (PGP). View the award recipients. With its matching funds, our Partnership Grant Program gives our members added leverage to support local nonprofits, said Greg Hettrick, senior vice president and director of Community Investment at FHLB Dallas. Our members are very supportive of local community organizations, and we are proud to provide funds that help with their endeavors. Under the program, FHLB Dallas member institutions contribute $500 to $4,000 to a nonprofit, which FHLB Dallas matches at a 3:1 ratio to provide up to $12,000 to the organization per member. The awards help promote and strengthen relationships between community-based nonprofits and FHLB Dallas members. The following community-based organizations were supported in Mississippi: AHA Development (Aberdeen, Mississippi) - $10,000 Member: Cadence Bank Madison Countians Allied Against Poverty (Canton, Mississippi) - $16,000 Member: BankPlus North Madison County Economic Development Council (Canton, Mississippi) - $4,000 Member: Community Bank of Mississippi Greenwood-Leflore LEAP Foundation (Greenwood, Mississippi) - $8,000 Member: Bank of Commerce Christmas In April (Grenada, Mississippi) - $8,000 Member: Cadence Bank Fuller Center for Housing of Houston, MS (Houston, Mississippi) - $16,000 Member: Cadence Bank Housing Education and Economic Development (Jackson, Mississippi) - $32,500 Member: BankPlus, Cadence Bank, Community Bank of Mississippi, Origin Bank, Trustmark National Bank Mississippi Faith Based Coalition for Community Renewal (Jackson, Mississippi) - $12,000 Member: Community Bank of Mississippi Friends of Lexington Preservation (Lexington, Mississippi) - $16,000 Member: BankPlus Home With Heroes Foundation (Natchez, Mississippi) - $12,000 Member: Home Bank Natchez-Adams County Habitat for Humanity (Natchez, Mississippi) - $12,000 Member: Home Bank Sacred Heart Southern Mission (Walls, Mississippi) - $4,000 Member: Community Bank of Mississippi Dream Center Golden Triangle (West Point, Mississippi) - $16,000 Member: Bank of Commerce Through this program, we were able to support four local organizations and help them continue to contribute to their community. Its extremely rewarding, said William Lehr, executive vice president and chief investment officer at Community Bank of Mississippi, which received PGP grants for 13 community-based organizations. The PGP may be used for: Organizational capacity building Assistance with applying for grants and other funding sources Research and studies Contractual services General operating expenses View this PGP video to see a complete list of the 2023 PGP grant recipients. For more information about the 2023 PGP grants and other FHLB Dallas community investment products and programs, please visit fhlb.com/pgp. About the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas is one of 11 district banks in the FHLBank System created by Congress in 1932. FHLB Dallas, with total assets of $174 billion as of June 30, 2023, is a member-owned cooperative that supports housing and community development by providing competitively priced loans and other credit products to approximately 800 members and associated institutions in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico and Texas. For more information, visit our website at fhlb.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928322386/en/ Corporate Communications Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas fhlb.com (214) 441-8445 Source: Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas KAMPALA, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- As the world commemorated World Tourism Day (WTD) Wednesday, Uganda announced that the tourism sector in the country is on a path to recovery, although it has not yet returned to pre-COVID-19 data. During an event held by the Ugandan government in the country's western district of Hoima under the theme "Tourism and Green Investments," Vice President Jessica Alupo said that the theme was chosen to represent the country's dreams, aspirations, and intentions as "we invest in sustainable projects that coexist alongside the ecosystem." "In Uganda today, we deeply recognize the power and potential of tourism in advancing prosperity, especially within the tourism communities that drive sustainable development," Alupo added. Uganda is home to 10 National Parks and 12 Game Reserves, along with unique cultural sites, food, traditions, the warmth of the Ugandan people, and stories to share at almost every turn, the vice president noted. Tourism is one of Uganda's major foreign exchange earners, contributing approximately 5 percent to the country's gross domestic product (GDP), according to data from the Ministry of Finance. The growth of the tourism industry, however, was significantly affected by the pandemic. "The Financial Year 2022/23 was a recovery year for our tourism industry, which was greatly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The full reopening of the economy provided an opportunity for Uganda to reposition itself as a global tourism destination," said Tom Butime, minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, ahead of World Tourism Day. Uganda is well-known for its rich flora and fauna, with the endangered mountain gorillas being the country's flagship tourism product. Uganda hosts more than half of the world's mountain gorillas. According to the Tourism Development Program Annual Performance Report for the 2022/2023 period, the outlook for Uganda's tourism sector in 2023 appears optimistic due to the full reopening of key tourism source markets. China, India, and the United States are among the top 12 source markets. Total Experts Customer Intelligence, automated Journeys, and built-in digital content library are helping credit unions deliver enhanced member experiences at scale MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Total Expert, the customer engagement platform purpose-built for modern financial institutions, announced it is a sponsor and featured speaker at the American Credit Union Mortgage Association (ACUMA) conference in National Harbor, Maryland, on October 1- 4, 2023. Total Experts Banking GM James White will present with Coastal Credit Union on Tuesday, October 3 at 3:30 PM ET for a session titled, 3 Ways to Ignite Member Loyalty and Drive Growth. Attendees will learn how credit unions can grow their member and deposit base with automated marketing and member engagement features. Total Expert allows us to leverage data insights on our members that our loan officers can efficiently act upon, something that was incredibly daunting for our Marketing team before, said Eric Burgoon, SVP of Mortgage Lending at LMCU. Now, our teams have access to rich campaign data so that we can understand how our members are responding to messaging in real time. These insights have allowed us to build even stronger member Journeys to drive retention and loyalty. As both credit unions and consumers adapt to an uncertain economic landscape, the value of personal relationships and engagement has remained a priority. Not only do financial consumers want digital, simple products and experiences, but they require a trusted financial partner to help them meet their unique financial goals. Total Expert is helping credit unions double down on their commitment to member service and understand member needs, deliver personalized messaging, and drive the next best action throughout their financial journey, all efficiently managed within one technology platform. Credit unions have been actively striving to re-engage with members who have shifted their preferences toward digital channels by employing timely and personalized messaging, said White. Creating strong, genuine relationships with members begins with understanding them. And to do that, credit unions benefit when they can access, analyze, and act on good member data. Were helping credit unions tap into their data to provide the human-plus-digital experience that creates members for life. As a regional credit union with over 300K members, prioritizing each members needs has never been more of a priority as we compete with other digital-first options, said Andy Watson, SVP of Mortgage at Canvas Credit Union. To learn more and see Total Expert in action, credit union professionals attending ACUMA can visit us at kiosk #1. The company was recently recognized for its innovative credit union technology and was named a finalist for the Credit Union Times Luminaries awards. About Total Expert Total Expert is the purpose-built customer engagement platform trusted by more than 200 financial enterprises. The platform unifies data, marketing, sales, and compliance solutions to deliver the perfect customer journey across every financial milestone, in any market. Total Expert turns customer insights into actions to increase loyalty and drive growth for banks, lenders, credit unions, and insurance companies, and is now available to purchase through the AWS Marketplace and Salesforce AppExchange. For conversations between modern banks and lenders on leadership and innovation, listen to the Expert Insights podcast hosted by Founder and CEO Joe Welu. For more information, visit totalexpert.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230927024486/en/ Marissa Matchey Padilla [email protected] 612-817-9753 Source: Total Expert IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), an industry leader in quantum computing, today announced an expanded relationship with the Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) to deploy two barium-based trapped ion quantum computing systems for quantum networking research and application development. The deal comes one year after IonQ announced an agreement with AFRL to provide access to the companys trapped ion systems, and will further enhance AFRLs research mission. As part of the contract, IonQ will deliver and set up systems at AFRLs location in Rome, N.Y. AFRL is seeing incredible achievements on trapped ion quantum systems to enable and grow US quantum technology, the innovation occurring on the frontlines by industry will bring revolutionary technologies to our warfighters, said Michael Hayduk, Deputy Director, Air Force Research Laboratory, Information Directorate. This announcement follows an upswing of activity by the U.S. federal government supporting development of quantum technology, including Congress 2018 creation of the National Quantum Initiative (NQI), a broad, interagency program which secured funding for quantum research and development. I applaud the Air Force for its work to advance quantum technology and its applications as they relate to our national security. Quantum computing is sure to be a game-changing field that will yield critically important technologies, said Rep. C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-Md.). We cannot afford to find ourselves behind China when it comes to the research and development efforts to enhance military capabilities on the battlefield. This partnership will leverage the Air Forces resources and brightest minds to ensure the United States continues to make great strides in quantum technology and I was proud to help secure the necessary funding. Quantum computing is sure to play a key role in the future of our economy, our global competitiveness, our national security, and so much more. Thats why I was glad to support federal participation in this public-private partnership between the Air Force and Maryland-based IonQ to facilitate their work in building quantum systems that will help safeguard our nation against emerging security threats. I will keep working to bring investments to Maryland that position our state and our nation to be at the forefront of advanced technologies, said Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.). As IonQs systems approach 64 algorithmic qubits (#AQ 64) and usher in the era of enterprise-grade quantum computing, we are committed to supporting the nations security interests. This partnership will significantly help advance U.S. defense technologies as quantum computers increasingly become a prevalent centerpiece of national computing stacks, said IonQ CEO Peter Chapman. This agreement with AFRL will advance quantum communications, networking, and computing, while continuing our progress from basic research to directly supporting agency missions. In the second quarter of 2023, IonQ achieved a record-setting $28 million in bookings. The deal also comes on the heels of a contract IonQ signed with Switzerland-based QuantumBasel to establish a European quantum data center. To learn more about how you can get started on an IonQ system today, please contact us at: https://ionq.com/get-access. Reuters reports Thursday morning, citing unnamed sources, that Chinese electric automaker, Nio (NYSE: NIO) has held exploratory talks with Mercedes-Benz for a potential agreement that would see the German luxury carmaker invest in Nio in exchange for technology. According to the sources, Nio CEO, William Li, spoke earlier this year with Mercedes CEO, Ola Kaellenius, exploring the possibility of a collaboration. In these talks, Nio proposed that Mercedes make an investment in exchange for access to Nio's research and development expertise. One of the insiders revealed that Nio initiated the talks with Mercedes. However, there is apparently internal resistance within the German company, which has been deliberating the proposal in recent weeks. It is increasingly likely that the collaboration will not move forward. Nio has denied the talks, calling it "untrue", without elaborating. Mercedes has also denied the rumors, saying that there were no collaboration plans with Nio. Shares of NIO are up 0.89% in pre-market trading Thursday morning. By Michael Elkins | [email protected] DENVER, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via CannabisNewsWire -- CannabisNewsWire (CNW), a specialized communications platform for the cannabis sector and one of the 60+ brands within IBN (InvestorBrandNetwork), is delighted to announce its renewed engagement as a media sponsor and official newswire for 420 Expo. This event holds the distinction of being New Jerseys first-ever BYOC (bring your own cannabis) consumer expo and is sponsored by Wakit Grinders. The expo will take place at the New Jersey Convention & Exposition Center, 97 Sunfield Avenue, Edison, New Jersey, from Sept. 29 to Oct. 1, 2023. As the largest BYOC consumer convention in the Northeast, 420 Expo is open to all cannabis connoisseurs, budding entrepreneurs and passionate enthusiasts. Attendees can expect to learn more about cannabis and CBD, engage with industry veterans or simply enjoy a fun weekend centered around all things related to cannabis. Benefiting from a supportive legal and policy framework, this three-day canna-fest celebrates the legal marijuana lifestyle, broadens public exposure to the cannabis community, promotes greater tolerance for cannabis consumption and encourages meaningful conversations while reducing the stigma associated with responsible consumption. This year, 420 Expo has added free expungement clinics to help battle social injustice as well. As one of the leading interactive cannabis events in the United States, 420 Expo anticipates an attendance of nearly 20,000 fans, marking a significant increase over last years 17,000+ participants. This years event will be guest hosted by legendary actor, cannabis activist and art collector, Cheech Marin. Cheech leads an impressive lineup of cannabis-friendly celebrities available for photos, autographs, Smoking Sessions and other VIP experiences. Notable personalities making appearances at the convention include: David Faustino (Married with Children) Jason Gann (Wilfred) Jason London (Dazed and Confused) Jeremy London (Mallrats, 7th Heaven) Nicholas Turturro (NYPD Blue, The Longest Yard, I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry) Rachel True (Half Baked, The Craft) Shawna Waldron (Little Giants, The American President, Ladies Man) Keith Coogan (Dont Tell Mom the Babysitters Dead, Toy Soldiers, Adventures in Babysitting) Professional wrestling legends, The Sandman and Blue Meanie Activist and champion race car driver, Randy Lanier Troma Films characters The Toxic Avenger and Sgt. Kabukiman 420 Expo promises mesmerizing stage shows, including musical acts, dancers, comics and interactive games. Attendees can soak in the unique and energetic atmosphere while mingling with cannabis-friendly celebrity guests, participating in 20+ insightful workshops and seminars, and enjoying the after-parties. Throughout the three days, attendees can groove to live DJs and partake in activities like glass blowing, axe throwing, rolling contests, gaming areas and more. Iconic cars from well-known movies will also be showcased. The convention floor, spanning nearly 100,000 square feet, offers the perfect platform to interact with over 100 vendors showcasing including those showcasing cutting-edge technology in cannabis products and associated services across the entire value chain. This years eye-opening seminars cover a range of cannabis lifestyle themes, including: Bud & Breakfast: Cannabis Tourism Cannabis 101: Newbies & Doobies Smoking Sex: Using Cannabis to Enhance Your Love Life High Nightlife: Social Consumption & Events Removing the Stigma: Bringing Cannabis to the Mainstream A dedicated smoking section provides a space to enjoy the aroma of freedom, enjoy awesome food trucks, and connect with like-minded people. 420 Expo is offering 1-day and 3-day tickets, including VIP options for both. Additionally, there are VIP Meet & Greets as well as limited VIP Smoking Sessions available with celebrities including Cheech Marin. IBN and CannabisNewsWire are joining forces to leverage their extensive corporate communications solutions to enhance visibility for conference participants seeking to connect with investors, journalists, consumers and the broader public. CannabisNewsWire, with expertise in amplifying cannabis-related content across 5,000+ syndication outlets, will also feature conference updates on its website. Last year, we were delighted to be part of 420 Expos inaugural event and are pleased to contribute towards the success of the event series once again, said Jonathan Keim, Director of Communications for CannabisNewsWire. This celebration offers the perfect platform to learn from pioneers and the best minds across the sector and to forge lasting partnerships in a rapidly expanding market. 420 Expos incredible success has positioned the event at the front and center of the cannabis event space. In addition to CannabisNewsWires widespread dissemination of articles and press releases, IBN will provide curated social media coverage of the event. Among its 60+ investor-oriented brands that include CannabisNewsWatch, CBDWire, and 420 with CNW, IBN reaches an audience of more than 2 million across various platforms such as Facebook, X and LinkedIn. IBN and CNW represent a key part of our marketing strategy, brand recognition and social media presence. We were amazed by the attendance as well as the online interest generated for last years event, said Dan Davis, Co-Founder of 420 Expo. We are thrilled to be working with them for this years event, which promises to be even more impactful and far-reaching. While the conference will not permit cannabis sales (including plants, seeds, concentrates, and vapes) on-site, attendees are encouraged to BYOC within New Jerseys legal limits while practicing responsible consumption in the designated outdoor smoking section. Attendees must be 21 years of age or older. Interested parties can purchase General Admission and VIP tickets at the following link: https://www.420expo.com/tickets/ For additional information about the 420 Expo, visit https://420expo.com/ About IBN IBN consists of financial brands introduced to the investment public over the course of 17+ years. With IBN, we have amassed a collective audience of millions of social media followers. These distinctive investor brands aim to fulfill the unique needs of a growing base of client-partners. IBN will continue to expand our branded network of highly influential properties, leveraging the knowledge and energy of specialized teams of experts to serve our increasingly diversified list of clients. Through our Dynamic Brand Portfolio (DBP), IBN provides: (1) access to a network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to reach all target markets, industries and demographics in the most effective manner possible; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ news outlets; (3) Press Release Enhancement to ensure maximum impact; (4) full-scale distribution to a growing social media audience; (5) a full array of corporate communications solutions; and (6) total news coverage solutions. For more information, please visit https://www.InvestorBrandNetwork.com Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the InvestorBrandNetwork website applicable to all content provided by IBN, wherever published or re-published: http://IBN.fm/Disclaimer Corporate CommunicationsIBNLos Angeles, Californiawww.InvestorBrandNetwork.com310.299.1717 Office[email protected] Source: InvestorBrandNetwork (IBN) Company invites individual and institutional investors, as well as advisors and analysts, to attend in person or online at VirtualInvestorConferences.com HALIFAX, Nova Scotia, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GoGold Resources Inc. (OTCQX:GLGDF), based in Mexico, focused on the Los Ricos Project, today announced that Brad Langille, President and CEO, will present live at the Metals and Mining Virtual Investor Conference, hosted by VirtualInvestorConferences.com, on October 4th , 2023. DATE: October 4th, 2023 TIME: 11:00 AM ET LINK: https://bit.ly/44FOnTd Available for 1x1 meetings: October 3rd & 4th This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the company questions in real-time. If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event. It is recommended that online investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates. Learn more about the event at www.virtualinvestorconferences.com . Recent Company Highlights GoGold Announces Updated Mineral Resources and PEA with NPV US$458M at Los Ricos South GoGold Announces NPV of US$413M for Los Ricos North Initial PEA GoGold Drills Highest Grade Hole to Date at Los Ricos - 55.0m of 2,738 g/t AgEq, including 7.0m of 20,715 g/t AgEq About GoGold Resources GoGold Resources (TSX: GGD) is a Canadian-based silver and gold producer focused on operating, developing, exploring and acquiring high quality projects in Mexico. The Company operates the Parral Tailings mine in the state of Chihuahua and has the Los Ricos South and Los Ricos North exploration projects in the state of Jalisco. Headquartered in Halifax, NS, GoGold is building a portfolio of low cost, high margin projects. For more information visit gogoldresources.com. About Virtual Investor Conferences Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors. Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access. Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors. CONTACTS: GoGold Resources Steven Low Corporate Development 416 855 0435 [email protected] Virtual Investor Conferences John M. Viglotti SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access OTC Markets Group (212) 220-2221 [email protected] Premium income (IFRS4) of 11.1 billion, up +5.3% Strong growth in property and casualty insurance (+9.6%), driven by the good performance of international subsidiaries Development in health & protection (+8.3%) Decrease in savings & pensions (-13.7%) Insurance revenues (IFRS17/9) of 7.3 billion Net income of 447 million Economic operating income of 612 million, with a very moderate weight of weather-related claims after an exceptional year in 2022 Non-life combined ratio of 91.6%, including a discounting effect in accordance with IFRS17 Solvency ratio without transitional measure of 222% A solvency ratio of 287% with transitional measure on technical reserves Groups IFRS equity of 9.6 billion Contractual services margin of 3.8 billion, up +2.2% Paris, 28 September 2023 The Groups combined financial statements for the first half of 2023 were approved by the Board of Directors of Groupama Assurances Mutuelles at the meeting chaired by Francois Schmitt on 28 September 2023. The half-year financial statements underwent a limited review by the statutory auditors. Business (GWP & Other Revenues) As at 30 June 2023, Groupamas combined premium income stood at 11.1 billion, an increase of +5.3% from 30 June 2022. Business was up significantly in property and casualty insurance (+9.6%) with premium income reaching 6.2 billion as at 30 June 2023. In life and health insurance, the Group generated 4.8 billion in premium income, up +0.5% from 30 June 2022. Groupamas premium income at 30 June 2023 million 30/06/2023 Like-for-like change Property & casualty 6,167 +9.6 % Life & health 4,794 +0.5% Health & protection 3,339 +8.3% Savings & pensions 1,455 -13.7% Financial business 103 -6.7% TOTAL GROUP 11,064 +5.3% In France Insurance premium income in France amounted to 9.5 billion as at 30 June 2023, up +4.3% compared with 30 June 2022. In property and casualty insurance, premium income reached 5.1billion as at 30 June 2023, up +8.7% compared with 30 June 2022. Individual and professional insurance rose +7.9% to 2.8 billion, driven by growth in home insurance (+11.3%) and motor insurance (+4.6%). Insurance for businesses and local authorities increased significantly (+8.7%) as well as the agricultural segment (+11.9%). The business in health insurance and protection continued to grow (+8.2%) to 3.2 billion euros at 30 June 2023, driven by the health sectors (+5.8%) and collective acceptances (+51.5%). In savings and pensions, premium income was down (-17.6%) to 1.2 billion at 30 June 2023, in a sluggish market. The rate of Unit-Linked policies in net life insurance inflows remains close to 50%, in line with that of last year. International Over the first half of 2023, premium income reached 1.5 billion, up +13.3% from 30 June 2022 on a like-for-like basis and with constant exchange rates, benefiting from the strong growth in activity in Romania (+27.8%) and in Hungary (+24.1%). Property and casualty insurance premium income reached 1.1 billion as at 30 June 2023, up +13.9% from the previous period. This strong growth is driven by motor insurance (+14.6%) which is growing in most countries where the group operates, as well as the good performance of the business and local authority segments (+11.0%), particularly in Hungary, Italy and Romania. The activity in health and protection increased significantly (+10.1%), benefiting from the growth of the group health (+32.2%) and individual protection (+6.2%) branches. Premium income in retirement savings grew strongly (+12.4%), particularly in individual retirement savings (+10.0%), supported by strong growth in unit linked (+25.6%), mitigated by the decline in euros products (-4.5%). This increase was driven by Hungary. Group pensions also increased (+29.5%), mainly in Greece (+36.1%). Financial businesses The Groups premium income was 103 million, including 99 million from Groupama Asset Management and 4 million from Groupama Epargne Salariale. Results The Groups economic operating income was 612 million as at 30 June 2023. It comes from property and casualty insurance for 378 million euros at 30 June 2023, and benefits from very moderate climate claims, while the first half of 2022 was marked by an exceptionally high level of climate events. The groups non-life combined ratio was 91.6% at 30 June 2023, including the benefit of the current years provisions discount, as required by IFRS 17, and 97.8% excluding this discount benefit. In life and health insurance, operating income was 239 million as at 30 June 2023, which comes mainly from business in France. The economic operating income from financial activities amounted to +15 million, and the Groups holding business posted an economic operating loss of 19 million as at 30 June 2023. The reconciliation of economic operating income to net income includes non-recurring items, in particular the foreign exchange loss related to the sale of the groups Turkish activities, which was already deducted from equity. The Groups overall net income was +447 million as at 30 June 2023, a strong increase compared to proforma net income at 30 June 2022 of -96 million euros (232 million euros in IFRS 4 standards at 30 June 2022). Balance sheet Groups IFRS equity amounted to 9.6 billion as at 30 June 2023 compared with 8.8 billion proforma as at 31 December 2022. This rise is linked half to the net income contribution and half to the market environment (exchange rate and revaluation reserve). The groups contractual services margin, which represents the deferred future profits of current contracts, calculated on a discounted basis, amounted to 3.8 billion euros at 30 June 2023 and increased by +2.2% compared to 31 December 2022. At 30 June 2023, the Solvency 2 ratio, without transitional measure on underwriting reserves, was 222%. The increase of +15 points in this ratio compared with the end of 2022 is primarily due to changes in financial market conditions and the net income over the period. The ratio with the transitional measure on underwriting reserves authorised by the ACPR (French insurance and banking regulator), was 287%. The Group's financial strength was highlighted by Fitch Ratings, which affirmed Groupama's rating to 'A+' with a 'Stable' outlook on 30 May 2023. Group Communications Department Media contact : Analysts and investors contact: Safia Bouda + 33 (0)6 02 04 48 63 [email protected] Valerie Buffard +33 (0)6 70 04 12 38 [email protected] For the financial statements at 30 June 2023, Groupama Group's financial information consists of: this press release, which is available on the website groupama.com; Groupama Groups half-year report, which will be filed with the AMF and posted online at www.groupama.com on 29 September 2023. About Groupama Group For more than 100 years, Groupama Group has based its actions on timeless, humanist values to enable as many people as possible to build their lives with confidence. It relies on humane, caring, optimistic and responsible communities. The Groupama Group, one of the leading mutual insurers in France, carries out its insurance and service business activities in 10 countries. The Group has 12 million members and customers and 31,000 employees throughout the world, with annual premium income of 15.9 billion. Find all the latest news about Groupama Group on its website (www.groupama.com). Appendix: key figures for Groupama / Premium income million 30/06/2023 proforma* 3/06/2023 Change ** as % > France 9,113 9,506 +4.3% Property and casualty insurance 4,693 5,101 +8.7% Savings and pensions 1,468 1,210 -17.6% Health and protection 2,953 3,195 +8.2% > International & Overseas 1,285 1,455 +13.3% Property and casualty insurance 936 1,066 +13.9% Savings and pensions 218 245 +12.4% Health and protection 131 144 +10.1% TOTAL INSURANCE 10,398 10,961 +5.4% Financial businesses 111 103 -6.7% Total Groupama Group 10,509 11,064 +5.3% * Based on comparable data **Change at like-for-like exchange rate and consolidation basis / Net income million 30/06/2023 Insurance - France Insurance - International 546 71 Financial businesses 15 Holding companies -19 Economic operating income 612 Non-recurring financial margin -69 Others -96 Net income 447 / Balance sheet million 31/12/2022 30/06/2023 Groups IFRS equity 8,780 9,650 Subordinated debts 3,006 3,008 - classified in Groups IFRS equity 871 871 - classified as financing debt 2,135 2,137 Contractual services margin (CSM) 3,712 3,792 Total balance sheet 86,263 89,156 / Main ratios 30/06/2023 Non-life combined ratio 91.6% 31/12/2022 30/06/2023 Solvency 2 ratio (with transitional measure*) 282% 287% Solvency 2 ratio (without transitional measure*) 207% 222% * transitional measure on technical reserves / Financial strength rating Fitch Ratings Rating * Outlook Groupama Assurances Mutuelles and its subsidiaries A+ Stable * Insurer Financial Strength (IFS) Attachment NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Guggenheim Securities, the investment banking and capital markets division of Guggenheim Partners, announced today that Dan Donner, Ronnie Habibian, Jonathan Lee, Ben Roberts, and Subbu Nambi have joined the firm to expand its Equities franchise. Messrs. Habibian and Lee are based in the firms New York office, Mr. Roberts is based in the firms San Francisco office, and Ms. Nambi is based in the firms Boston office. Mr. Donner will commence work at Guggenheim in November and will be based in the firms San Francisco office. Mr. Donner joins Guggenheim as a Senior Managing Director and Health Care Sales Specialist in the Equities Sales Group. He worked more than 20 years at Leerink Partners, most recently serving as a Managing Director and, previous to Leerink, worked in GE Capitals financial management and internal audit departments. Mr. Donner holds a B.S. in accounting from Northeastern University. Mr. Habibian joins Guggenheim as a Managing Director and Senior Derivatives Salesperson in the Equity Derivatives Sales Group. He arrives at the firm after seven years at Jefferies, most recently as a Senior Vice President - Equity Derivatives Sales Trader. Mr. Habibian holds a degree in economics from New York University. Mr. Lee joins Guggenheim as a Managing Director in the Equity Research Department, covering IT services. He arrives at the firm after five years at Morgan Stanley, most recently serving as Executive Director, Equity Research, where he covered IT services and payments & processors. Mr. Lee holds a B.S. in finance and international business from New York University. Mr. Roberts joins Guggenheim as a Managing Director in the Equities Sales Group. He brings more than 20 years of equities sales and trading experience to the firm, most recently serving as Director - Institutional Equity Sales and Trading at Wells Fargo. Prior to Wells Fargo, he served as Director - Sales Trader at Cowen. Mr. Roberts holds a bachelors degree in economics from the University of Vermont. Ms. Nambi joins Guggenheim, from General Atlantic, as a Director in the Equity Research Department, covering diagnostics and life sciences tools. Prior to General Atlantic, Ms. Nambi served as Vice President Healthcare Equity Research at Cowen. Ms. Nambi holds a Ph.D. from the Indian Institute of Sciences. The additions of Dan, Ronnie, Jonathan, Ben, and Subbu to Guggenheim expands our equities capabilities, expertise, and overall platform, said Stefano Natella, Head of Equities at Guggenheim Securities. We look forward to their success at Guggenheim. About Guggenheim Securities Guggenheim Securities is the investment banking and capital markets business of Guggenheim Partners, a global investment and advisory firm. Guggenheim Securities offers services that fall into four broad categories: Advisory, Financing, Sales and Trading, and Research. Guggenheim Securities is headquartered in New York, with additional offices in Chicago, Boston, Atlanta, San Francisco, and Houston. For more information, please visit GuggenheimSecurities.com, follow us on LinkedIn, or contact us at [email protected] or 212.518.9200. About Guggenheim Partners Guggenheim Partners is a diversified financial services firm that delivers value to its clients through two primary businesses: Guggenheim Investments, a premier global asset manager and investment advisor, and Guggenheim Securities, a leading investment banking and capital markets business. Guggenheims professionals are based in offices around the world, and our commitment is to deliver long-term results with excellence and integrity while advancing the strategic interests of our clients. Learn more at GuggenheimPartners.com, and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter @GuggenheimPtnrs. Media Contact Steven LeeGuggenheim Securities212.293.2811[email protected] Source: Guggenheim Securities WILMINGTON, Mass., Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Heilind Electronics, a leading global distributor of electronic components, will be on hand at IBEX 2023 to share its catalog of interconnects, lighting, identification products, and more for the marine market. Featured manufacturers from Heilinds comprehensive line card include American Bright, Harting, Molex, Omron, Panduit, and TE Connectivity. Our Heilind teams are looking forward to returning to IBEX this year, said Alan Clapp, SVP at Heilind Electronics. We welcome visitors to stop by booth 3-1932 to learn how Heilind can help overcome supply chain hurdles and provide trusted products for their marine designs. IBEX 2023 takes place in Tampa, Florida at the Tampa Convention Center from October 3-5. Meet Heilinds electronics distribution experts at booth 3-1932 for the duration of the show. Register to attend here. About Heilind Electronics Heilind Electronics, Inc. (www.heilind.com) is one of the worlds leading distributors of connectors, relays, sensors, switches, thermal management and circuit protection products, terminal blocks, wire and cable, wiring accessories, and insulation and identification products. Founded in 1974, Heilind has locations throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, Singapore, Hong Kong, and China. Attachment David P. Warren Heilind Electronics 972-489-4752 [email protected] Source: Heilind Electronics Toronto, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Investment Funds Institute of Canada (IFIC) has made a submission to the Government of Manitoba. The submission is in response to the governments proposal (Financial Planner Title Protection in Manitoba) to adopt title-protection legislation that would prohibit people from using the title financial advisor or financial planner without having any qualifications to provide such advice. IFIC strongly supports the appropriate use of titles that do not confuse investors and that reflect competencies of those using the title financial advisor. However, IFIC believes that people using the title who are already regulated by the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) should be exempt from any additional regulation relating to the use of the title. CIRO oversees proficiency requirements and enforcement mechanisms that are comprehensive, consistent, and applicable nationally, said Andy Mitchell, President and CEO, IFIC. Any further regulation of the financial advisor title for those regulated by CIRO would impose an unnecessary regulatory burden. Further, IFIC recommends that the governments consultation should focus on coordinating and harmonizing regulation of the use of the financial advisor title in Manitoba with existing standards. About IFICThe Investment Funds Institute of Canada is the voice of Canadas investment funds industry. IFIC brings together approximately 150 organizations, including fund managers, dealers, professional and back-office service providers, to strengthen the integrity of the investment funds industry, foster public confidence in investment funds, and enable investors to achieve good outcomes. By connecting savers to Canadas economy, our industry contributes significantly to Canadian economic growth and job creation. Christine Harminc Senior Manager, Communications and Public Affairs 416-309-2313 [email protected] Source: The Investment Funds Institute of Canada (IFIC) HOUSTON, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kirby Corporation ("Kirby") (NYSE: KEX) will announce its 2023 third quarter results at 6:00 a.m. Central Daylight Time (CDT) on Thursday, October 26, 2023. This announcement will be followed by an earnings conference call webcast at 7:30 a.m. CDT. For listeners who wish to participate in the question and answer session via telephone, please pre-register at Kirby Earnings Call Registration. All registrants will receive dial-in information and a PIN allowing them to access the live call. To listen to the webcast, please visit the Investor Relations section of Kirbys website at www.kirbycorp.com. A replay of the webcast will be available for a period of one year by visiting the Investor Relations section of Kirbys website. The financial and other information to be discussed in the conference call will be available in the 2023 third quarter press release and in a Form 8-K to be posted prior to the call on Kirbys website at www.kirbycorp.com. Kirby Corporation, based in Houston, Texas, is the nations largest domestic tank barge operator transporting bulk liquid products throughout the Mississippi River System, on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, and coastwise along all three United States coasts. Kirby transports petrochemicals, black oil, refined petroleum products and agricultural chemicals by tank barge. In addition, Kirby participates in the transportation of dry-bulk commodities in United States coastwise trade. Through the distribution and services segment, Kirby provides after-market service and genuine replacement parts for engines, transmissions, reduction gears, electric motors, drives, and controls, specialized electrical distribution and control systems, energy storage battery systems, and related equipment used in oilfield services, marine, power generation, on-highway, and other industrial applications. Kirby also rents equipment including generators, industrial compressors, high capacity lift trucks, and refrigeration trailers for use in a variety of industrial markets. For the oil and gas market, Kirby manufactures and remanufactures oilfield service equipment, including pressure pumping units, and manufactures electric power generation equipment, specialized electrical distribution and control equipment, and high capacity energy storage/battery systems for oilfield customers. Contact: Kurt Niemietz 713-435-1077 Rena Murshud Bilal Erdogan is on a visit to Azerbaijan, Azernews reports with reference to the Turkish Embassy. Chairman of the Foundation for the Propagation of Science and the World Confederation of Ethnosports Bilal Erdogan visited the Baku Turkish Lyceum of the Religious Foundation of Turkiye and the Azerbaijan Institute of Theology. First, the guest visited the Baku Turkish Lyceum of the Religious Foundation. An event was organized in the conference hall of the lyceum on the occasion of September 27 - Remembrance Day, and a meeting with the guest of honor took place. At the event, a minute of silence was held to honor the memory of the martyrs who died for the freedom of Azerbaijan. The national anthems of Azerbaijan and Turkiye were played and then, on the occasion of September 27 - Remembrance Day, representatives of the Religious Foundation of Turkiye Fatih Okumush read the verses of the Holy Quran for the repose of the souls of martyrs. Ihsan Ac?k, Counselor for Religious Affairs of the Turkish Embassy, who gave a speech at the event, thanked the school staff for organizing the event and expressed gratitude to the guests for taking the time to meet with the students. Later Bilal Erdogan answered questions. Emphasizing the importance of education in human life, Bilal Erdogan noted that the greatest weapon of the modern world is a strong education. When asked what his favorite sport is, the guest answered that it was archery and spoke about the history of this sport. At the same time, he noted the importance of national identity. At the event, lyceum students recited poems dedicated to the martyrs. Then Bilal Erdogan visited the Azerbaijan Institute of Theology. The rector of the institute, Agil Shirinov, provided the guest with extensive information about the activities of the university and the opportunities created for students. Then a meeting with students and teaching staff took place in the conference hall of the institute. Agil Shirinov spoke about the successful activities of the Institute of Theology, noting that they will always contribute to the development of relations between the two countries. Answering questions, Bilal Erdogan shared his experience with the students, talking about his childhood and student years at the most prestigious universities in the world. He advised students to be good in their fields and work hard. Emphasizing the observed integration of science from Europe to the East, Bilal Erdogan noted that the most striking examples of this process are the successes of Aziz Sanjar and Seljuk Bayraktar. Experts from the Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences (CATAS) and local students pose for a group photo at the China-Aid Agriculture Technology Demonstration Center in Brazzaville, capital of the Republic of the Congo, Nov. 19, 2019. While experts from the Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences (CATAS) teach their Congolese colleagues to operate equipment in Haikou, capital of China's Hainan Province, a CATAS team is sharing agricultural expertise with local students in fields near Brazzaville, capital of the Republic of Congo.(CATAS/Handout via Xinhua) HAIKOU/BRAZZAVILLE, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- While experts from the Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences (CATAS) teach their Congolese colleagues to operate equipment in Haikou, capital of China's Hainan Province, a CATAS team is sharing agricultural expertise with local students in fields near Brazzaville, capital of the Republic of Congo. From Haikou to Brazzaville, Chinese experts sow seeds of hope in local communities by sharing their expertise in tropical agriculture, writing a new chapter in China-Africa cooperation. LONG-LASTING EXPERTISE AND SKILLS The Republic of Congo, which boasts vast arable land and abundant solar resources, has long been grappling with technical shortage. That is where CATAS comes in. As a national-level comprehensive research institution dedicated to tropical agricultural science studies in China, CATAS has sent more than 20 experts to the China-Aid Agriculture Technology Demonstration Center (ATDC) since 2007. These experts tested and selected tropical crop varieties suitable for local cultivation, demonstrated agricultural and poultry farming skills, and offered local people extensive and intensive teaching and training. "Talents and technologies are our greatest assets. We can leverage such resources to aid in developing tropical agriculture in the Republic of Congo," said Zhou Quanfa, former director of the ATDC. To facilitate progress for local people, Zhou and other CATAS experts have compiled the Collection of Pamphlets for Practical Farming Techniques for Tropical Agriculture "Going Global" in Chinese, English, and French, covering a wide range of cultivation techniques for cassava, maize, watermelon and other vegetables and fruits. Such measures have benefited many Congolese people, including Diakabana Ngoma Andre, who received hands-on training in watermelon, cassava, vegetable cultivation, and poultry farming for an extended period. By utilizing the skills he acquired, Andre cultivated a watermelon field and reaped his first earnings. "I used that income to buy my first TV set. It's a cherished memory," he said. Over the past five years, CATAS experts in Brazzaville have conducted 29 training sessions with 2,205 participants, bringing advanced technologies to local farmers and officials for the sustainable agricultural development in the country. Paul Valentin Ngobo, Congolese minister of agriculture, livestock and fisheries, expressed heartfelt thanks to the ATDC, saying: "Equipment will eventually go broken, but the knowledge stays." FRUITS OF TECHNOLOGICAL COLLABORATION Many Chinese vegetable varieties have entered the Republic of Congo's local markets. Among them, some crops that are previously rare in the country such as soybeans have gained prominence. "Trainees not only saw and grew soybeans for the first time, but also tasted soybean products from China," said Huang Xiaoming, a CATAS expert. Technological breakthroughs have also released the potential of local agriculture. Notably, the introduction of high-yield and disease-resistant cassava varieties from China has doubled local cassava output across 5,280 acres of cultivated land. Meanwhile, the ATDC and the Congolese Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries have jointly implemented the aid project "China-Congo (Brazzaville) High-Quality Cassava Flour Industrial Technology Demonstration and Promotion," and established a cassava flour production line, to benefit local farmers. PROMISING COOPERATION Agricultural training and technological advancements have increasingly benefited local populations, highlighting the ATDC's crucial role in promoting tropical agricultural cooperation between China and the Republic of Congo since its official launch in 2012. "We have always viewed the ATDC as a 'bridge' and a 'window' through which we can closely connect with Africa," said Zhou. In November, the second China-Africa Agricultural Cooperation Forum will be held in China's Hainan province, opening a broader space for deepening China-Africa agricultural, investment and trade cooperation. According to Huang Sanwen, president of CATAS, in future the academy will continue to help upgrade Congo's agricultural industries and further promote the development of tropical agriculture in Africa, offering "China wisdom" and "China strength" for the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. Li Keming (L), an expert from the Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences (CATAS) and his Congolese colleague inspect the growth of crop on a plantation at the China-Aid Agriculture Technology Demonstration Center in Brazzaville, capital of the Republic of the Congo, July 12, 2023. While experts from the Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences (CATAS) teach their Congolese colleagues to operate equipment in Haikou, capital of China's Hainan Province, a CATAS team is sharing agricultural expertise with local students in fields near Brazzaville, capital of the Republic of Congo.Photo by Guy-Gervais Kitina/Xinhua) NORWOOD, Mass., Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Leading multi-state cannabis operator MariMed Inc. (MariMed) (CSE: MRMD) (OTCQX: MRMD) and media and data technology platform Benzinga unveiled the Bob Fireman Entrepreneur of the Year Award for the first time at a ceremony held September 27th during the 2023 Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago. MariMed CEO and President Jon Levine and Benzinga VP/Events & Head of Cannabis Elliot Lane presented the award to Shanel Lindsay, Founder and President of Ardent Life Inc, for her work that bridges cannabis science and policymaking. The Bob Fireman Entrepreneur of the Year Award honors the legacy of MariMeds co-founder and CEO, who passed away in December 2022. Fireman was a pioneer and visionary of the legal cannabis industry. He entered the industry in 2008 with Levine through an investment in a California cannabis business. The award is presented to a cannabis industry executive who embodies Firemans entrepreneurial spirit and success, as well as his staunch advocacy for medical cannabis patients rights. Lindsay is an attorney, entrepreneur, and longtime force in the Massachusetts cannabis industry. She invented the NOVA, a laboratory-grade precision decarboxylator for medical cannabis patients. She went on to create Ardent Life Inc., a company known for innovation in cannabis biotech and medical devices. The multi-million dollar global brand develops CPG products and infusion accessories. Additionally, she is a two-time appointee to the Massachusetts Cannabis Advisory Board, which makes regulation and taxation recommendations to the Cannabis Control Commission. Bob always worked hard as a business leader, attorney, and advocate for our industry. He guided MariMed to deliver on our mission to improve peoples lives through cannabis, said Levine. Shanel is likewise has set a positive course for Massachusetts cannabis consumers. She is a deserving recipient of this award because she puts her cannabis science expertise to use to improve the lives of others. We know Bob would be pleased and Im extremely proud to honor his legacy with the establishment of this award. Bobs passing left a void, but not before laying a roadmap for what integrity and ingenuity should look like in the cannabis industry, said Lane. We are thrilled to partner with MariMed to create the Bob Fireman Entrepreneur of the Year Award and equally excited to honor Shanel as its first recipient. A serial entrepreneur and a practicing attorney for over 30 years, Firemans legal acumen and entrepreneurial experience in diverse industries served as tremendous assets in navigating MariMed through the complex, emerging cannabis industry. Together, he and Levine built MariMed to become one of the most financially sound companies in cannabis. As an advocate for medical cannabis patient rights, he put a heavy emphasize on education and worked tirelessly to help gain access to legal cannabis for everyone who needs it. Under Firemans leadership as Chairman of the Board of Directors, CEO and President, the MariMed team applied forand was awardedcannabis business licenses in multiple states and developed many state-of-the-art cultivation, production and retail facilities. About MariMed:MariMed Inc., a multi-state cannabis operator, is dedicated to improving lives every day through its high-quality products, its actions, and its values. The Company develops, owns, and manages seed to sale state-licensed cannabis facilities, which are models of excellence in horticultural principles, cannabis cultivation, cannabis-infused products, and dispensary operations. MariMed has an experienced management team that has produced consistent growth and success for the Company and its managed business units. Proprietary formulations created by the Companys technicians are embedded in its top-selling and award-winning products and brands, including Betty's Eddies, Natures Heritage, InHouse, Bubbys Baked, K Fusion, Kalm Fusion, and Vibations: High + Energy. For additional information, visit www.marimedinc.com. Company Contact:Howard SchacterChief Communications OfficerEmail: [email protected]Phone: (781) 277-0007 Investor Relations Contact:Steve WestVice President, Investor RelationsEmail: [email protected]Phone: (781) 277-0007 Source: MariMed Inc. BURLINGTON, Ontario, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bunzl Canada announced today the recent launch of its new, environmentally preferable cleaning product line under the REGARD brand banner. Utilizing smart, innovative packaging is just one way the new line effectively reduces the environmental impact associated with procurement and delivery. Consistent with Bunzls commitment to offering more sustainable solutions to customers in all its business segments, REGARD Eco-Friendlier Cleaning Solutions is a new line of ECOLOGO and Green Seal-certified, environmentally responsible cleaning products. The line is formulated to be non-caustic, hypoallergenic and provide a safer and healthier cleaning alternative. Most importantly, the high-performance products deliver exceptional cleaning results. More than ever, theres a greater awareness of the importance of more sustainable cleaning practices, said Jay Creek, Bunzl Cleaning & Hygienes Director of National Accounts. Expectations have increased to ensure both the cleanliness and overall health of the building, its occupants, and its cleaning staff. The eco-friendlier aspects of these new products extend to both packaging and formulations. From disinfectants to washroom cleaners, each product is designed to minimize waste and resource consumption. REGARD Eco-Friendlier Cleaning Solutions packaging is made with 100% post-consumer recycled content, which exceeds the ECOLOGO standard. The exclusion of virgin plastics is critical in reducing the amount of crude oil, gas and emissions required to for new plastic production. This initiative further supports the circular economy and the secondary market for recycled plastic. REGARD Eco-Friendlier Cleaning Solutions are packaged to ensure every shipping pallet contains more units than pallets carrying products with traditional packaging to achieve a lower overall ecological footprint. Although many traditional cleaning chemicals come in circular bottles that provide stability and good pouring flow, they also leave a lot of unused space inside boxes when packaged and are not efficient in shipping. REGARD Eco-Friendlier Cleaning Solutions bottles have been purposefully designed in a unique ellipses shape that results in more product per box and less warehousing and transportation resource waste. The concentrated formulas in the new REGARD line also help reduce environmental impact by providing more end-use cleaning solution delivered in fewer shipments. A single 3.78L bottle of highly concentrated REGARD Eco-Friendlier Glass and Multi-Surface Cleaner can produce more than 245 litres of diluted solution, equivalent to 64 containers of 3.8 litre pre-mixed glass cleanera significant environmental and cost savings. REGARD Eco-Friendlier Cleaning Solutions are world-class products with world-class performance - at a price that's competitive and more sustainable, said Creek. According to Brock Tully, Vice President, Bunzl Cleaning and Hygiene, the companys customers increasingly seek more sustainable cleaning product alternatives with the required efficacy for a wide range of commercial cleaning applications. Our customers count on us to lead the way with innovation that helps them achieve their sustainability objectives while maintaining the highest standards of cleaning quality, said Brock Tully, Vice President, Bunzl Cleaning and Hygiene. Our new REGARD Eco-Friendlier Cleaning Solutions offers a complete line of products designed to do exactly that. For more information on REGARD Eco-Friendlier Cleaning Solutions and the full line of products, visit bunzlch.ca/products/regard-eco-line/ About Bunzl Canada Bunzl Canada Inc. (bunzlcanada.ca) provides the cleaning and hygiene products and equipment, food and retail packaging, safety products and industrial supplies which keep over 45,000 Canadian businesses running optimally, every day. The company brings its customers the advantage of global sourcing, product innovation and national scale combined with responsive local service and deep category expertise. Bunzl Canada Inc. is a division of Bunzl Distribution USA, LLC. About Bunzl Distribution Bunzl Distribution USA, LLC (bunzldistribution.com), headquartered in St. Louis, Mo., is the largest division of London-based Bunzl plc, an international distribution and outsourcing group. With more than 100 distribution centre throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, Bunzl supplies a wide range of products to food processors, supermarkets, retailers, convenience stores and other users. Media Inquiries Margo HunnisettVice President, Marketing & CommunicationsBunzl Canada Inc.[email protected](905) 630-3749 Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ed11ed07-0e3c-4c29-944f-7171219b3b69 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2c7a2845-33b9-4c71-9125-4fcedb0315c3 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2a8f7697-8cf0-4450-a673-55b7b5809f8e https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/11644a8e-2d3f-462f-8fd9-b7f552e4d3ad https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b6d191c5-ecb8-4a40-8e47-c0ac8eb483e2 Regard Eco Glass & Multi-Surface Cleaner Comparison Infographic - Full An in-depth comparison between Regard Eco-Friendlier Cleaning Solutions' Glass & Multi-Surface Cleaner and a generic brand glass cleaner. Regard Eco-Friendlier Cleaning Solutions Family of Products Regard Eco-Friendlier Cleaning Solutions Family of Products Regard Eco-Friendlier Cleaning Solutions Family of Products on Lobby Floor Regard Eco-Friendlier Cleaning Solutions Family of Products on Lobby Floor Regard Eco-Friendlier Cleaning Solutions Family of Products Promotional Image A selection of Regard Eco-Friendlier Cleaning Solutions' family of products Regard Eco Glass & Multi-Surface Cleaner Comparison Infographic - English The English version of a simplified comparison between Regard Eco-Friendlier Cleaning Solutions' Glass & Multi-Surface Cleaner and a generic brand glass cleaner. Source: Bunzl Canada Inc HENDERSON, Nev., Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Solar Integrated Roofing Corp. (OTC: SIRC) (SIRC or the Company), an integrated, single-source solutions provider of solar power, roofing and EV charging systems, provided a corporate and operational update. Our plan to consolidate operations while growing revenue and improving margins remains on course, said Brad Rinehart, Chief Executive Officer of SIRC. We just launched our new, consolidated facility in San Diego for our McKay and Milholland subsidiaries and we are finalizing the tenant improvements for the property this week. We continue to have a dialog with Tribeca Energy on the Letter of Commitment we have with them. We are working towards consummating that arrangement when both Tribeca Energy and SIRC are prepared to do so and at a valuation that will enable shareholders to benefit from the transaction. Our revenue remains strong across our roofing, solar, and EV Charging infrastructure businesses. We have continued to reduce headcount where appropriate to focus our payroll on construction projects and eliminate administrative costs where we can. We are going to start posting our current construction projects more frequently on our various social media platforms so shareholders can see the quality work and progress we are making on our installations across all divisions. Finally, our strategy to continue to reduce debt and improve our balance sheet also remains on course. We continue to use a third-party company to sell shares and retire debt. We are also continuing to aggressively pursue positive outcomes for previously announced pending litigation. These two initiatives were undertaken to contribute to long-term shareholder value in anticipation of the Tribeca Energy transaction which remains on track, concluded Rinehart. October 2023 Investor Update Podcast SIRC will host an investor update podcast with the Company's Chief Executive Officer, Brad Rinehart in early October. The podcast will be available on the official SIRC YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@SIRC_Official. About Solar Integrated Roofing Corp. Solar Integrated Roofing Corp. (OTC: SIRC) is an integrated, single-source solutions provider of solar power, roofing and EV charging systems, specializing in commercial and residential properties throughout North America. The Company serves communities by delivering the best experience through constant innovation & legacy-focused leadership. For more information, please visit the Company's Investor Relations website at www.solarintegratedroofing.com , Corporate website at https://www.sirc.com/ or join us on Twitter , LinkedIn or Facebook. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as: anticipate, intend, plan, goal, seek, believe, project, estimate, expect, strategy, future, likely, may, should, will and similar references to future periods. Examples of forward-looking statements in this press include, among others, statements about our renegotiated settlement agreement. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: our limited operating history; our dependence on third parties for many aspects of our business; general market and economic conditions; technical factors; the availability of outside capital; our receipt of revenues; legislative developments; changes in our expenditures and other uses of cash; our ability to find, recruit and retain personnel in sufficient numbers to support our growth; our ability to manage growth; and general market, economic and business conditions. Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by our forward-looking statements are under the captions Risk Factors and Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our most recent Registration Statement on Form 10 or Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this press release is based only on information currently available to us and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. SAN DIEGO and TORONTO, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- StateHouse Holdings Inc. ("StateHouse" or the "Company") (CSE: STHZ) (OTCQX: STHZF), a California-focused, vertically integrated cannabis enterprise, today announced the appointment of Zed Schlott to the role of Vice President of Retail. Schlott is a cannabis industry innovator with more than a decade of experience in retail operations, management and sales. He joins the California-focused enterprise after spending more than six years at LivFree Wellness, LLC and its parent company, Ayr Wellness Inc., a leading vertically integrated U.S. multi-state cannabis operator. In his most recent role as the Vice President of the West Region, Schlott helped integrate 800 employees across Nevada and Arizona with 200,000 square feet of cultivation, 4 manufacturing facilities and 9 retail operations. We look forward to having Zed join our team as we begin the next chapter of our journey, said Ed Schmults, CEO of StateHouse. StateHouse has successfully merged the shared history of the four companies through cannabis production, activism and advocacy in a unique manner. This would not be possible without the commitment and talent of our invaluable team members. Zeds vast experience and insight will bring an added dimension that is helpful as we take our company to the next level. I am thrilled to begin my journey with a forward-thinking company like StateHouse that is committed to excellence, said Zed Schlott, Vice President of Retail at StateHouse. I began my journey within the cannabis industry as a budtender. Throughout my career, I have remained connected to those on the ground level of retail and sales as a way to understand every level of the retail experience. Using this philosophy, I aim to embrace every member of the StateHouse family and build a unified collective of cannabis professionals who are committed to elevating the cannabis industry one sale at a time. Schlott joins StateHouse in their mission to innovate every aspect of the emerging and dynamic cannabis sector. In Q2 of 2023 the Company secured additional capital from Pelorus Capital Group (Pelorus) to execute its long-term growth plan, restructured its marketing department to enhance digital and granular marketing efforts, resulting in the Companys Dime Bag brand growing by 41%, and saw improved the quality and quantity of its flower grown at its Salinas, California facility through strategic cultivation advancements lead by Vice President of Cultivation, Travis Higginbotham. In addition, the Company recently entered into a managed service agreement with Pelorus to manage the operations at Willow Creek located in Humboldt County, California for an initial 18-month term. For more information on StateHouses cultivation endeavors, product offerings, retail locations and patient resources, please visit https://www.statehouseholdings.com. About StateHouse Holdings Inc.StateHouse, a vertically integrated enterprise with cannabis licenses covering retail, major brands, distribution, cultivation, nursery, and manufacturing, is one of the oldest and most respected cannabis companies in California. Founded in 2006, its predecessor company Harborside was awarded one of the first six medical cannabis licenses granted in the United States. Today, the Company operates 13 dispensaries covering Northern and Southern California and one in Oregon, an integrated cultivation facility in Salinas and manufacturing in Greenfield, California. StateHouse is a leading brand house in California by market share, with a diversified product across multiple brands, form factors, and price points. StateHouse sells its six popular house brands to over 600 retailers across California including Kingpen, Dime Bag, Loudpack and Smokiez line of products. StateHouse is a publicly listed company, currently trading on the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") under the ticker symbol "STHZ" and the OTCQB under the ticker symbol "STHZF". The Company continues to play an instrumental role in making cannabis safe and accessible to a broad and diverse community of California and Oregon consumers. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking InformationThis news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements'' (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation. To the extent any forward-looking information in this news release constitutes "financial outlooks" or "future-oriented financial information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on such information. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates, and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects'', or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. In this news release, forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements relating to cultivation and harvest yields, the introduction of Dime Bag DVPs, the introduction of new strains and new products, loyalty program discounts, reduction of expenses and costs of goods, and the potential benefits of these changes to StateHouse. These forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of the Company at the time such statements were made. Actual future results may differ materially as forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to materially differ from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors, among other things, include: implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Company's operations; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; expectations regarding the size of the cannabis markets where the Company operates; changing consumer habits; the ability of the Company to successfully achieve its business objectives; plans for expansion and acquisitions; political and social uncertainties; inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; employee relations; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on cultivation, production, distribution, and sale of cannabis and cannabis-related products in the markets where the Company operates; and the risk factors set out in the Company's management's discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2022 and the Company's listing statement dated May 30, 2019, which are available under the Company's profile on www.sedar.com. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. The Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law. The Company, through several of its subsidiaries, is directly involved in the manufacture, possession, use, sale, and distribution of cannabis in the recreational and medicinal cannabis marketplace in the United States. Local state laws where the Company operates permit such activities however, investors should note that there are significant legal restrictions and regulations that govern the cannabis industry in the United States. Cannabis remains a Schedule I drug under the United States Controlled Substances Act, making it illegal under federal law in the United States to, among other things, cultivate, distribute or possess cannabis in the United States. Financial transactions involving proceeds generated by, or intended to promote, cannabis-related business activities in the United States may form the basis for prosecution under applicable United States federal money laundering legislation. While the approach to enforcement of such laws by the federal government in the United States has trended toward non-enforcement against individuals and businesses that comply with recreational and medicinal cannabis programs in states where such programs are legal, strict compliance with state laws with respect to cannabis will neither absolve the Company of liability under United States federal law, nor will it provide a defense to any federal proceeding which may be brought against the Company. The enforcement of federal laws in the United States is a significant risk to the business of the Company and any proceedings brought against the Company thereunder may adversely affect the Company's operations and financial performance. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities in the United States. The Company's securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Neither the CSE nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. For the latest news, activities, and media coverage, please visit https://www.statehouseholdings.com, https://shopharborside.com and https://urbnleaf.com and connect with us on LinkedIn and Twitter. For further information:MATTIO Communications[email protected] Source: StateHouse Holdings Inc. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Three Sixty Solar Ltd. (NEO: VSOL) (OTC: VSOLF) (Three Sixty, Three Sixty Solar, or the Company), an innovative alternative energy design, manufacture, and sales organization focused on solar equipment supply to the global marketplace, is pleased to announce that company CEO Brian Roth has been recognized by Delta Management Group as one of 50 individuals who have done the most to advance the cause of sustainability and clean capitalism in Canada over the past two years. Delta Management Group CEO Gavin Pitchford says, Deltas criteria in determining Honourees is to carefully consider actual measurable accomplishments, demonstrated innovation, collaboration with other organizations, and the power of the Honourees contribution to inspire other Canadians to take similar action. Brian Roth was chosen after rigorous screening and research by Delta Management, with advice from internal researchers and external advisors, and was among Honourees selected from an initial pool of well over 1,000 well qualified nominees. The Clean50 honourees come from such a broad array of backgrounds, such that only a few individuals are able to be recognized within any given category. To receive a Clean50 award is truly indicative of nation-wide and personal leadership in the Renewable Energy category. Brian Roth will be amongst approximately 130 past and incoming Clean50 Honourees meeting on Thursday September 28th at the Clean50 Summit 13.0 in Toronto, Ontario, to spend a day amongst peers and colleagues, tackling critical sustainability challenges facing Canada. Three Sixty Solar CEO Brian Roth adds, Im proud to have been selected by Delta Management Group to the 2024 Clean50 list of honourees. I cant wait to attend the Clean50 Summit to meet this years other nominees as well as past winners. The opportunity to meet with such a strong collection of leaders and to add them to my network will be invaluable. To learn more about Canadas Clean50 Award, the Clean50 Summit, and this years Honourees, please visit their website. On Behalf of the Board of Directors, --Scott McLeod-- Scott McLeod,DirectorThree Sixty Solar Ltd.www.threesixtysolar.com About Three Sixty Solar Ltd. (NEO: VSOL) (OTC: VSOLF) Three Sixty Solar Ltd. is an all-Canadian enterprise which focuses on solar equipment supply to the global market. The companys premier product line is the patent pending SVS series commercial solar tower. According to Statistics MRC, the solar farm sector is set to grow to around $296 billion by 2028. Three Sixty Solars unique tower concept is a high density, clean energy solution that uses up to 90% less land space than conventional solar farms and can co-locate adjacent to homes, retail, agriculture, and industry, thus minimizing line loss and maximizing energy delivery in places where renewables have been difficult to install until now. In multi-tower applications, developers can utilize the spaces between towers to better leverage land assets through additional revenue generating activities. Designed to withstand major instances of extreme weather, Three Sixty Solar offers a clean energy solution with minimal environmental and habitat impact. To find our more, visit: www.threesixtysolar.com and please watch our video. To stay informed, please sign up to receive news alerts. About Delta Management Group / Canadas Clean50 Leading ESG, sustainability and clean tech search firm Delta Management Group founded, and remains the steward of the Canadas Clean50 Awards, created in 2011 to annually identify, recognize and connect 50 sustainability leaders from every sector of Canadian endeavor, in order to facilitate understanding, collaboration and innovation in the fight to keep climate change impacts below 1.5 degrees C. Ancillary awards also recognize 20 Emerging Leaders and the 24 Top Sustainability Projects of the year, as well as bestow Lifetime Achievement designations. Media Contact: Gavin Pitchford 416-925-2005 / [email protected] Forward Looking Information Disclaimer This letter contains statements and information that, to the extent that they are not historical fact, may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking information may include financial and other projections, as well as statements regarding future plans, objectives, or economic performance, or the assumption underlying any of the foregoing. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terms such as may, would, could, will, likely, except, anticipate, believe, intend, plan, forecast, project, estimate, outlook, or the negative thereof or other similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. Examples of such statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to Brian Roths expected attendance at the Clean50 Summit 13.0 in Toronto. Forward-looking information 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 believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made, but which may prove to be incorrect. The material factors and assumptions used to develop the forward-looking information contained in this news release include, but are not limited to, key personnel and qualified employees continuing their involvement with the Company; the Companys ability to secure additional financing on reasonable terms; the competitive conditions of the sector in which the Company operates; and laws and any amendments thereto applicable to the Company. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information, including, without limitation, risks relating to the future business plans of the Company; risks that the Company will not be able to retain its key personnel; risks that the Company will not be able to secure financing on reasonable terms or at all, as well as all of the other risks as described under the heading Risks Factors in the Companys annual information form dated December 29, 2022 filed under the Companys profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking information. Further, any forward-looking information speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Companys management to predict all such factors and to assess in advance the impact of each such factor on the Companys business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking information to reflect information or events after the date on which it is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law, including securities laws.. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking information. Further, any forward-looking information speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Companys management to predict all such factors and to assess in advance the impact of each such factor on the Companys business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking information to reflect information or events after the date on which it is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law, including securities laws. Neither the Neo Exchange Inc. nor any securities regulatory authority has approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release. CONTACT INFORMATION Three Sixty Solar Ltd.Investor RelationsEmail: [email protected] Telephone: +1 (778) 383-6743 Sales & InquiriesEmail: [email protected] Telephone: +1 (877) 684-1972 Source: Three Sixty Solar Ltd. WHITE HAVEN, Pa., Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TILT Holdings Inc. (TILT or the Company) (NEO: TILT) (OTC: TLLTF), a global provider of cannabis business solutions that include inhalation technologies, cultivation, manufacturing, processing, brand development and retail, and its subsidiary Standard Farms (Standard Farms) today announced a fundraising partnership with the PA Breast Cancer Coalition (PBCC or Coalition) during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. During the month of October, Standard Farms will donate $5 to PBCC for every Jupiter Pink Ceramic Mouth Tip vape cartridge sold in medical dispensaries statewide. Grassroots partners like Standard Farms and its customers are the foundation for the PA Breast Cancer Coalitions advocacy and impact, said PBCC President and Founder Pat Halpin-Murphy. Thanks to Standard Farms, the Coalition will now be able to reach even more women and families facing a breast cancer diagnosis, letting them know they are not alone. We are so grateful for this unique and creative partnership which brings us closer to our ultimate goal of finding a cure for breast cancer now so our daughters dont have to. Patient-centered care is paramount at Standard Farms, said Tim Conder, CEO of TILT. We know so many medical cannabis patients bravely battling this disease with the support of their families, friends and communities, and we are proud to be part of a larger support network in the state by helping to raise money for PA Breast Cancer Coalition. Every day, 38 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in Pennsylvania. More than 140,000 women are living with the disease in our state. The PA Breast Cancer Coalition provides programs and services for those women including free Friends Like Me care packages full of resources and small gifts to help them navigate their diagnosis. The Coalition has awarded over $5 million in grants to outstanding breast cancer researchers and offers educational programming including a statewide Conference each October in Harrisburg with workshops from the brightest minds in breast cancer. Proceeds from the campaign will be based on October sales of pink-tipped Jupiter vape cartridges. To find a participating dispensary near you, visit https://www.standard-farms.com. About TILT Holdings TILT helps cannabis businesses build brands. Through a portfolio of companies providing technology, hardware, cultivation and production, TILT services brands and cannabis retailers across 39 states in the U.S., as well as Canada, Israel, South America and the European Union. TILTs core businesses include Jupiter Research LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary and leader in the vaporization segment focused on hardware design, research, development and manufacturing; and cannabis operations, Commonwealth Alternative Care, Inc. in Massachusetts, Standard Farms LLC in Pennsylvania, and Standard Farms Ohio, LLC in Ohio. TILT is headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. For more information, visit www.tiltholdings.com. BRADENTON, Fla., Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Token Communities, Ltd. (Symbol: TKCM, the Company), today announced that the Companys subsidiary Elements of Health and Wellness Inc. established a new regional center in Kunming, Yunnan. This strategic expansion is aimed at better serving the healthcare needs of the southern China region. In a commitment to enhancing accessibility, Elements of Health and Wellness has joined with ten regional and private clinics throughout China to provide comprehensive support and care to individuals dealing with Type 2 diabetes and high blood sugar levels. By working together, we aim to ensure that patients receive the best possible care and treatment options. Elements of Health and Wellness is also excited to announce the upcoming launch of its new promotion campaign - "Free Trial" in China. This initiative is intended to provide individuals with the opportunity to experience our services and products firsthand. We believe in the transformative potential of our supplements and want to make them more accessible to everyone. Elements of Health and Wellness is proud to unveil the latest addition to our product line: Detox Enhancer. This revolutionary supplement is now available in the US market which we believe may offer a wide range of benefits. We formulated our Detox Enhancer with the goal to rebuild damaged liver tissues, restore the liver's blood sugar regulation function, reverse endocrine disorders related to insulin resistance, regulate the metabolic function of beneficial probiotic microbiota in the body, and improve normal cellular functions within the human body. We believe it represents a groundbreaking approach to managing Type 2 diabetes and achieving overall wellness. We shipped our first paid order to Canada this week, and we hope to receive follow-up orders from our Canadian Distributor. About the Company We are actively engaged in the Health and Wellness Sector developing holistic and naturopathic products, including plant stem cell, natural supplements, cosmetic facial masks and more. We are developing an eCommerce platform to commence sales of all products. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this news release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of Rule 175 under the Securities Act of 1933 and Rule 3b-6 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and are subject to the safe harbor created by those rules. All statements, other than statements of fact, included in this release, including, without limitation, statements using the words hope, believe, anticipate, may and statements regarding the effects of the supplements referred to herein, and future plans and objectives of the Company, are "forward-looking statements" (as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995) that involve significant risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Actual results could differ materially from current projections or implied results. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Technical complications, which may arise, could prevent the prompt implementation of any strategically significant plan(s) outlined above. The Company cautions that statements and assumptions made in this news release constitute forward-looking statements and make no guarantee of future performance. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and opinions of management at the time statements are made. The information set forth herein speaks only as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no duty to revise or update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this release. Food and Drug Administration Disclosure The products featured in this release are not for use by or sale to persons under the age of 12. These products should be used only as directed on the label. Consult with a physician before use if you have a serious medical condition or use prescription medications. A doctors advice should be sought before using these and any supplemental product. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Investor Contact: David Chen, Chairman, CEO: [email protected] Source: Token Communities Ltd KAMLOOPS, British Columbia, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, UFCW 1518 filed an Unfair Labour Practice (ULP) with the BC Labour Relations Board against Sephora in Kamloops, the first unionized store in Canada. UFCW 1518 has been negotiating with Sephora for over a year to make significant wage improvements not only for union members but all Sephora workers in BC. The union has received reports that Sephora workers were feeling threatened by management and were at risk of losing wages and benefits. The Kamloops store became the first unionized Sephora in Canada in the summer of 2022 when workers organized to seek greater respect, equity and wage fairness in their workplace. After forming their union, the workers successfully fought for compensation for time spent waiting for bag checks, which sometimes forced workers to wait up to 30 minutes without pay after their shifts. The paid bag check time became company policy at all Sephora stores in Canada following the union's advocacy. "We are extremely disappointed to hear from our members that Sephora is using these tactics," said UFCW 1518 President Kim Novak. "We expect better from this company. That means Sephora coming to the bargaining table with an offer we can bring back to our members that includes significant wage increases, better flexibility and respect for the work they do. We are ready and willing to work with Sephorabut we need to see respect for our members in the process. The union is fighting for significant wage increases, assurance of health benefits, retention of store bonuses, and more at the bargaining table. Once negotiations are complete, all workers at the Kamloops Sephora store will have the opportunity to vote on the tentative contract. From there, the Sephora Kamloops union can fight for further wage and workplace improvements in their next collective agreement. If you are a Sephora worker and would like to know more about the benefits of joining a union, you can reach out at [email protected] or go to ufcw1518.com/join. UFCW Local 1518 represents more than 26,000 members working in the community health, hospitality, retail, grocery, industrial, and professional sectors across British Columbia. CONTACT INFORMATIONEva Prkachin, Press Secretary [email protected] 604.612.1464UFCW 1518 Source: UFCW Canada BRISBANE, Australia, Sept. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Allkem Limited (ASX: AKE, Allkem or the Company) provides an update in relation to the proposed merger of equals between Allkem and Livent Corporation (Livent) announced to ASX on 10 May 2023 (Transaction). Transaction update Allkem is pleased to provide the following update on the progress of the Transaction: Further to Allkems announcement on 24 July 2023, Allkem Livent plc1 ( New TopCo ) has today filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ( SEC ) Amendment No. 1 and Amendment No. 2 to the preliminary registration statement on Form S-4 that contains a proxy statement/prospectus (together the Revised Preliminary Form S-4 ) ) has today filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ( ) Amendment No. 1 and Amendment No. 2 to the preliminary registration statement on Form S-4 that contains a proxy statement/prospectus (together the ) All competition and foreign investment approvals are expected to be received prior to the proposed closing of the Transaction Subject to receipt of all necessary regulatory, shareholder and Australian Court approvals, and the satisfaction or waiver of other closing conditions, Allkem and Livent are targeting completion of the Transaction around the end of CY2023 Allkem expects to dispatch a notice of meeting and explanatory statement (Scheme Booklet) to shareholders in November 2023. The Scheme Booklet will contain information about the Transaction, including the basis for the Allkem Boards recommendation, as well as the Independent Experts Report. Allkem Shareholders are encouraged to consider the Scheme Booklet in full, once it is available, and to have regard to the disclosures included in the Scheme Booklet when making any decision to vote for or against the scheme proposal. Allkem will continue to update shareholders about any material developments in relation to the Transaction. No reliance on Revised Preliminary Form S-4 by Allkem Shareholders The Revised Preliminary Form S-4 should not be relied on by Allkem shareholders in deciding whether to vote for or against the Scheme (or by any other person in deciding to make an investment decision with respect to Allkem securities). Allkem refers to the statements concerning non-reliance on the Form S-4 in its announcement dated 24 July 2023 in relation to the initial filing of the Preliminary Form S-4, which apply equally to the Revised Preliminary Form S-4. In addition, the Revised Preliminary Form S-4 includes resource and reserve estimates for Allkems material mining properties presented in accordance with Subpart 1300 of Regulation S-K under the United States Securities Act of 1933 (as amended) (the Estimates). Allkem shareholders are cautioned that the Estimates have not been prepared in accordance with, and do not purport to comply with, the ASX Listing Rules or the JORC Code. Allkem shareholders are instead encouraged to have regard to Allkems recent ASX announcements providing updates on each of its key assets which have been prepared in accordance with the ASX Listing Rules and the JORC Code2. For completeness only, the Revised Preliminary Form S-4 is accessible on the SECs EDGAR platform in two parts at the following links: https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1977303/000114036123045320/ny20009544x2_s4a.htm https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1977303/000114036123045414/ny20009544x7_s4a.htm This release was authorised by the Board of Directors of Allkem Limited. Allkem LimitedABN 31 112 589 910 Level 35, 71 Eagle StBrisbane, QLD 4000 Investor Relations & Media EnquiriesAndrew Barber M: +61 418 783 701 E: [email protected] Phoebe LeeP: +61 7 3064 3600 E: [email protected] Connect [email protected] +61 7 3064 3600www.allkem.co IMPORTANT NOTICES This investor ASX/TSX release (Release) has been prepared by Allkem Limited (ACN 112 589 910) (the Company or Allkem). It contains general information about the Company as at the date of this Release. The information in this Release should not be considered to be comprehensive or to comprise all of the material which a shareholder or potential investor in the Company may require in order to determine whether to deal in Shares of Allkem. The information in this Release is of a general nature only and does not purport to be complete. It should be read in conjunction with the Companys periodic and continuous disclosure announcements which are available at allkem.co and with the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) announcements, which are available at www.asx.com.au. This Release does not take into account the financial situation, investment objectives, tax situation or particular needs of any person and nothing contained in this Release constitutes investment, legal, tax, accounting or other advice, nor does it contain all the information which would be required in a disclosure document or prospectus prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (Corporations Act). Readers or recipients of this Release should, before making any decisions in relation to their investment or potential investment in the Company, consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to their own individual investment objectives and financial situation and seek their own professional investment, legal, taxation and accounting advice appropriate to their particular circumstances. This Release does not constitute or form part of any offer, invitation, solicitation or recommendation to acquire, purchase, subscribe for, sell or otherwise dispose of, or issue, any Shares or any other financial product. Further, this Release does not constitute financial product, investment advice (nor tax, accounting or legal advice) or recommendation, nor shall it or any part of it or the fact of its distribution form the basis of, or be relied on in connection with, any contract or investment decision. The distribution of this Release in other jurisdictions outside Australia may also be restricted by law and any restrictions should be observed. Any failure to comply with such restrictions may constitute a violation of applicable securities laws. Past performance information given in this Release is given for illustrative purposes only and should not be relied upon as (and is not) an indication of future performance. Forward Looking Statements Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and beliefs and, by their nature, are subject to a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results, performances and achievements to differ materially from any expected future results, performances or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to, the risk of further changes in government regulations, policies or legislation; the risks associated with the continued implementation of the merger between the Company and Galaxy Resources Ltd, risks that further funding may be required, but unavailable, for the ongoing development of the Companys projects; fluctuations or decreases in commodity prices; uncertainty in the estimation, economic viability, recoverability and processing of mineral resources; risks associated with development of the Company Projects; unexpected capital or operating cost increases; uncertainty of meeting anticipated program milestones at the Companys Projects; risks associated with investment in publicly listed companies, such as the Company; and risks associated with general economic conditions. Subject to any continuing obligation under applicable law or relevant listing rules of the ASX, the Company disclaims any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements in this Release to reflect any change in expectations in relation to any forward-looking statements or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements are based. Nothing in this Release shall under any circumstances (including by reason of this Release remaining available and not being superseded or replaced by any other Release or publication with respect to the subject matter of this Release), create an implication that there has been no change in the affairs of the Company since the date of this Release. Not for release or distribution in the United States This announcement has been prepared for publication in Australia and may not be released to U.S. wire services or distributed in the United States. This announcement does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction, and neither this announcement or anything attached to this announcement shall form the basis of any contract or commitment. Any securities to be issued to Allkems shareholders described in this announcement have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States except in transactions with registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 or exempt from, or not subject to, the registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 and applicable U.S. state securities laws. ___________________________________________1 Allkem Livent plc is the temporary name of the proposed holding company of the merged group, which is not currently controlled by or related to Allkem. 2 See the following ASX releases dated 25 September 2023: Allkem confirms material growth profile underpinned by 40Mt resource; Olaroz Mineral Resource Update, and Stage 1 & 2 Operations Update; Cauchari Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve Update and Project Update; Sal de Vida Update Delivers Improved Economics, Resource and Reserve; and James Bay Lithium Project Update Confirms Strong Project Economics, which are each available to view on www.allkem.co and www.asx.com.au Source: Allkem Limited The Blockchain Economy Summit, recognized as the worlds largest blockchain conference network, is gathering for the eighth edition of the event in Dubai. Scheduled for Oct. 45, 2023, the premier summit brings together key players and experts from the worlds top crypto companies along with blockchain entrepreneurs and AI innovators. The Dubai summit serves as the regions premier gathering, representing the world of blockchain, cryptocurrency and AI. The event agenda will focus on the future of financial technologies while also providing participants from more than 85 countries with extensive networking opportunities. Speakers at the event include key experts from the industry, such as Martin Hanzl, head of new technologies at EY Law; Lennix Lai, global chief commercial officer at OKX; Phillip Liu, general manager of Tencent Cloud International in the MENA Region; and Sam Blatteis, CEO of the MENA Catalysts, just to name a few. Topics covered include Investment and Trading Strategies: The Future Landscape; Decentralized Finance (DeFi): New Frontiers; Transitioning from Web2 to Web3: A Roadmap; Regulatory Frameworks for Cryptocurrency Usage; Seamless Payment Applications in Blockchain; the Intersection of AI and Web3: A Harmonious Convergence, among many others. We are thrilled to be back in Dubai, a city at the forefront of embracing blockchain technology, Blockchain Economy Summit general manager Servi Aman in the press release. Dubais strategic vision and commitment to innovation perfectly align with our mission to shape the future of finance. This event will spark collaboration and exploration of groundbreaking ideas, driving the crypto industry forward. To view the full press release, visit https://ccw.fm/4J6xV About Blockchain Economy Summit Blockchain Economy Summit is the worlds largest blockchain conference network bringing together the key players of crypto industry and experts to redefine the future of finance. The eighth edition of the Blockchain Economy Summit will take place during two days in Dubai on Oct. 45, 2023. with the worlds top crypto companies, blockchain entrepreneurs and AI innovators. Today, UAE, specifically Dubai, is gearing up to become a global crypto hub, also embracing the AI technologies to boost efficiency and implementation across public services. Thus, Blockchain Economy Dubai Summit will be the main gathering in the region on behalf of the world of blockchain, cryptocurrency and AI technologies, with a wide range of topics focused on the revolutionary technologies of the future, extensive networking opportunities and participation from more than 85 countries. For more information about the company, please visit www.BEconomydubai.com. About CryptoCurrencyWire CryptoCurrencyWire (CCW) is a specialized communications platform with a focus on blockchain and the cryptocurrency sector. It is one of 60+ brands within the Dynamic Brand Portfolio @ IBN that delivers: (1) access to a vast network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to efficiently and effectively reach a myriad of target markets, demographics and diverse industries; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ outlets; (3) enhanced press release enhancement to ensure maximum impact; (4) social media distribution via IBN to millions of social media followers; and (5) a full array of tailored corporate communications solutions. With broad reach and a seasoned team of contributing journalists and writers, CCW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that want to reach a wide audience of investors, influencers, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in todays market, CCW brings its clients unparalleled recognition and brand awareness. CCW is where breaking news, insightful content and actionable information converge. To receive SMS alerts from CryptoCurrencyWire, text CRYPTO to 77948 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only) For more information, please visit https://www.CryptoCurrencyWire.com Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CryptoCurrencyWire website applicable to all content provided by CCW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CryptoCurrencyWire.com/Disclaimer CryptoCurrencyWire New York, NY www.CryptoCurrencyWire.com 212.994.9818 Office [email protected] CryptoCurrencyWire is powered by IBN Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet (R) shakes hands with his visiting Thai counterpart Srettha Thavisin in Phnom Penh, Cambodia on Sept. 28, 2023. Hun Manet and Srettha Thavisin held a meeting here on Thursday, discussing ways to further promote bilateral ties and cooperation. (Photo by Ly Lay/Xinhua) PHNOM PENH, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and his visiting Thai counterpart Srettha Thavisin held a meeting here on Thursday, discussing ways to further promote bilateral ties and cooperation. According to a news release after the meeting, the two prime ministers held talks in a cordial and friendly atmosphere, where they had in-depth exchange of views on bilateral cooperation. "The talks were focused on key areas ranging from trade, investment, tourism, education, vocational training, diplomacy, business relations, people-to-people contacts, and connectivity between the two countries by air, rail and road, digital economy and green economy, immigration-related work to cross-border security and online security," the news release said. "The two leaders strongly believed that Cambodian-Thai cooperation would be even stronger and closer in the future," it said. The two leaders also advised relevant ministries and institutions of the two countries to continue to discuss and work together closely for mutual benefit, it added. Srettha arrived in Phnom Penh on Thursday morning for a one-day official visit. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet (2nd L) and his visiting Thai counterpart Srettha Thavisin (3rd L) inspect the guard of honor in Phnom Penh, Cambodia on Sept. 28, 2023. Hun Manet and Srettha Thavisin held a meeting here on Thursday, discussing ways to further promote bilateral ties and cooperation. (Photo by Ly Lay/Xinhua) Perth, Western Australia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - Besra Gold Inc (ASX: BEZ) (ARBN 141 335 686) (Besra or the Company) is very pleased to advise of the appointment of Quantum Metal Recovery Inc's (Quantum) nominees, Dato' Lim Khong Soon as Executive Chair (on a non-fulltime basis) and Mr Chang Loong Lee as a Non-Executive Director of the Company, effective immediately. Dato' Lim Khong Soon A Malaysian citizen, Dato' Lim is the founder and chairman of Quantum. He has an extensive background spanning more than 20 years in the precious metals industry, particularly its downstream uses in precision moulding, electronic components, scrap refining, jewellery, and gold-plating industries. Dato' Lim has also played a pivotal role in co-developing a gold recovery system from electronic waste with Inochem in South Africa. This expertise has enabled him to form long standing dealings with Australian bullion bankers. Under his leadership, Quantum has evolved into a leading precious metals business, specialising in providing advanced technology solutions for financial management and leveraging bullion products. Dato' Lim was instrumental in developing an integrated system enabling precious metal suppliers to transact gold trading with banks and innovative services such as Gold Leverage and Gold Advance facilities in order to create not only a sustainable way for people to preserve and enhance their assets but also contributing to the social economy. Mr. Chang Loong Lee With a background in capital markets, fintech, corporate advisory and blockchain-enabled businesses, Mr Lee has over 10 years of experience in the Australian business and financial landscape, assisting several international businesses to establish their Australian foundations. As the co-founder and Managing Partner of Neo Legal, a law firm headquartered in Melbourne, specialising in blockchain consultancy, corporate law, commercial law and immigration, Mr Lee's portfolio includes multiple high net worth clients and client family offices situated both locally and overseas. Previously, Mr Lee co-founded and served as the Chief Executive Officer at STAX, a platform that facilitated Australia's first IPO to take USDT cryptocurrency as investment subscription funds. Notably, STAX allowed both retail and wholesale investors to participate in capital raises, which uniquely accepted both fiat currency and cryptocurrency investments. Mr Paul Ingram To make way for the appointment of Dato Lim and Mr Lee, Mr Paul Ingram has agreed to step aside as a director, effective immediately. The Board of Besra sincerely thanks Mr Ingram for his contribution to the Company during his tenure as a Director, including his technical insights, which have been instrumental in moulding the resource delineation strategy of the Company. Re-structured Board Following these changes, the Board of Besra comprises: Dato Lim Executive Chair Mr John Seton Executive Director Mr Chang Lee Non-Executive Director Mr Jon Morda Non-Executive Director However, the Board intends to commence a process to appoint a Canadian-domiciled, technically qualified Independent Director to the Board later this year, bringing the total number of Directors to five, including three Non-Executive Directors. Offtake Facility Further to the Company's announcement dated 20 September 2023, Besra advises that Quantum have re-affirmed that US$10,000,000 is being deposited into Besra's drawdown account by no later than the first week of October 2023. This tranche brings the total amount advanced by Quantum to Besra to US$15,000,000. This announcement was authorised for release by the Board of Besra Gold Inc. Michael Higginson Company Secretary Besra Gold Inc. North America Investor Relations Besra Gold Inc. M: 416-471-4494 E: [email protected] To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/182292 Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 27, 2023) - Big Ridge Gold Corp. (TSXV: BRAU) ("Big Ridge" or the "Company") announced today a clarification with respect to the expiry date of 3,100,000 replacement stock options issued in connection with the Company's acquisition of the outstanding securities of Gold Island Inc. ("Gold Island") and announced previously by way of a press release dated August 17, 2023. On August 11, 2023 the Company completed its acquisition of Gold Island and, as part of the purchase consideration for this acquisition, issued 3,100,000 stock options of the Company to replace a total of 3,875,000 options held by officers, directors and consultants of Gold Island. In its press release dated August 17, 2023, the Company reported that these replacement options had been issued with an expiry date of August 11, 2028. The correct expiry date of these options is June 30, 2028. In addition, one-third of the replacement options vested on August 10, 2023 with the remaining options vesting one-third on June 30, 2024 and one-third on June 30, 2025. About Big Ridge Gold Corp. Big Ridge Gold Corp. is an exploration and development company managed by a disciplined and experienced team of officers and directors. The Company is committed to the development of advanced stage mining projects using industry best practices combined with strong social license from our local communities. Big Ridge owns a 100% interest in the highly prospective Oxford Gold Project located in Manitoba and the Destiny Gold Project in Quebec. Big Ridge is the operator of the Hope Brook Gold Project located in Newfoundland and Labrador. The company currently owns 51% of the Hope Brook Gold Project and has an option to earn up to 80% by June 2026. Hope Brook Gold Project, Newfoundland The Hope Brook Gold Project is an advanced stage, high-grade gold project that produced 752,162 ounces of gold from 1987 - 1995. Initial production consisted of an open pit before moving to underground mining. Hope Brook operated using both heap leach (1987 - 1990) and conventional cyanidation milling methods (1989 - 1997) with a later inclusion of flotation concentration to recover copper (1991). Gold recoveries for full years of operation between 1988 and 1995 averaged 84%. Copper flotation during the second period of operation beginning in 1992 produced 7,000 to 10,000 tons of concentrate annually at approximately 22% Cu and 1 oz/t Au. The preceding information is obtained from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Department of Industry, Energy and Technology via the Mineral Occurrence Database System. The Company considers this information to be historic in nature. Hope Brook hosts an indicated gold resource totalling 16,190,000 tonnes grading 2.32 grams per tonne gold for 1.2 million ounces and inferred resources totalling 2,215,000 tonnes grading 3.25 grams per tonne gold for 231,000 ounces based on 0.4 and 2.0 gram per tonne cut-off grade for open pit and underground resources respectively using a long-term gold price of US$1,750. The deposit also hosts a total of 47 M lbs of copper mineralization in the inferred category, defined within the gold resource model. These mineral resources are detailed in the "Technical Report on the Mineral Resource Estimate Update for the Hope Brook Gold Project, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada" dated April 6, 2023 as filed on SEDAR and the Company's webpage. The Hope Brook gold deposit is a high-sulfidation epithermal gold deposit hosted in the Proterozoic aged Whittle Hill Sandstone and is intruded by a Late Proterozoic quartz-feldspar porphyry sill-dike complex of the Roti Intrusive Suite. The deposit is located adjacent to and within an extensive advanced argillic alteration envelope which includes pyrophyllite, kaolinite, andalusite, and alunite. The principal gold mineralization occurs in a buff-colored massive, vuggy silicic alteration with an associated, less developed grey silicic alteration with pyrite, chalcopyrite and lesser bornite accessory minerals. Gold mineralization is also found with pyrite in units of advanced argillic alteration adjacent to or near silicic alteration horizons. The altered and mineralized zone is cut by mafic dykes whose contacts are often mineralized. All the altered and mineralized sequences and the intruded dykes have been folded. Hope Brook is located 85 kilometers east of Port aux Basques, Newfoundland. The project has well maintained infrastructure on site, including an operational 28-person camp, an 1,100-meter airstrip, ice-free docking facility and importantly, connection to the provincial electrical power grid via an on-site substation. Significant exploration potential remains on the 24,000-hectare concession providing a great opportunity to expand the mine area as well as surface showings throughout the concessions. Destiny Gold Project, Quebec The 100% owned Destiny Project is in Despinassy Township, Quebec in the Abitibi greenstone belt of Quebec. The Destiny project hosts the DAC and Darla Zones where drilling has intersected gold mineralization. At the DAC Zone a Mineral Resource Estimate has reported 10.8 million tonnes of mineralization with average grade of 1.05 g/t Au in the indicated category calculated at a 0.5 g/t gold cut-off grade. The mineral resource was prepared for Alto Ventures (now Big Ridge) and reported in the Technical Report and Resource Estimate of the DAC Deposit, Destiny Property, Quebec (Effective Date: March 1, 2011), available on the Company's SEDAR profile. Drilling by Big Ridge after completion of the Resource Estimate in the in the 1 km long Gap Zone between the Darla and the DAC zones in 2012 confirmed the presence of gold within wide envelopes of anomalous mineralization. Drilling in 2021 provided additional positive gold results; Drill hole DES-21-173 (8.90 g/t Au over 0.4 m), DES-21-177 (5.17 g/t Au over 5.8 m including 43.1 g/t Au over 0.6 m), Drill hole DES-21-179 (3.78 g/t Au over 16.3 m including 8.85 g/t Au over 6.7 m and 42.6 g/t Au over 1.0 m). Oxford Gold Project, Manitoba The 100% owned Oxford Lake Property is in central Manitoba, approximately 150 km southeast of the city of Thompson in the Oxford-Knee Lake greenstone belt. In October 13, 2020, Big Ridge and the Bunibonibee Cree Nation signed a Long-Term Exploration Agreement related to future exploration in the First Nation's traditional lands at Oxford Lake. The Oxford Lake property hosts the Rusty Gold Deposit, with Historical Resource of 800,000 tonnes averaging 6 g/t gold and containing approximately 154,000 ounces of gold hosted in banded iron formation ("BIF"). A Qualified Person (QP), as defined by NI43-101, has not done sufficient work to classify this historical estimate as current mineral resources. Several other gold occurrences are also located on the property. BIF deposits such as the Musselwhite Mine in Ontario have the potential to host significant gold resources. The Rusty Gold Deposit and other potential BIF and orogenic type gold targets including the Blue Jay Zone lie along the Carrot River-Rusty-Blue Jay Trend, that was traced for 30 km by Big Ridge's 2011 VTEM and aeromagnetic surveys. For more details regarding the Company's projects, please visit Big Ridge's website at www.bigridgegold.com. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD, Mike Bandrowski, President & CEO For Further Information Contact: Mike Bandrowski, President & CEO BIG RIDGE GOLD CORP. 18 King St. East, Suite 1400 Toronto, ON, M5C 1C4 Tel: 416-540-5480 Email: [email protected] Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "plans", "projects", "intends", "estimates", "envisages", "potential", "possible", "strategy", "goals", "objectives", or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements in this news release relate to future events or future performance and reflect current estimates, predictions, expectations or beliefs regarding future events, including the expected timing of closing of the Amalgamation. All forward-looking statements are based on Big Ridge's and its employees' current beliefs as well as various assumptions made by them and information currently available to them. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the respective parties, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and the parties have made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. When relying on our forward-looking statements to make decisions with respect to Big Ridge, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Big Ridge does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by the Company or on our behalf, except as required by law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/182145 Brighsun EV Group and 2U Chat have embarked on the mass production of one of the world's first 1,000-kilometer range electric vehicles. Lysterfield South, Australia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 27, 2023) - Brighsun EV Group and 2U Chat have embarked on the mass production of one of the world's first 1,000-kilometer range electric vehicles. Exterior and Interior view To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/182037_4eeb3143a4b39bab_001full.jpg On September 8, 2023, this revolutionary electric vehicle underwent rigorous testing by veteran SGS engineers, successfully accomplishing a remarkable range of 1,058 kilometers on a single charge - a technological marvel marking the introduction of the world's first mass-produced electric vehicle capable of traveling over 1,000 kilometers. Brighsun EV Group's relentless dedication to enhancing energy density and battery safety, coupled with their ongoing R&D ventures into all-solid-state batteries, signals a nascent shift from quantitative to qualitative change for electric vehicles to become a realistic alternative to ICE vehicles. The 2U Chat Electric Car, boasting a total mass of 1937kg and an impressive battery capacity of 146 kW, offers an array of premium features and is available in five aesthetically pleasing exterior colors, and the body specifications: 4675*1910*1660 (mm). With a total battery weight of 417 kg, it introduces a personalized new-age driving experience through its voice recognition control system, 12.3-inch central control color screen, and a conveniently remote start function. Embracing a global online sales strategy, production planning commences once preorders from any given country reach 200 units with expected delivery anticipated within 9-12 months. The company's aspirational goal is to launch the initial batch of 200,000 electric vehicles by December 2023. Discover more about the 2U Chat Electric Car and embrace the ethos of 2U Chat's ecological sustainable development by visiting the pre-booking website at suv.brighsun.com and be part of our mission in preserving the planet's health. Contact Info: Name: Nicholas Lee Email: [email protected] Organization: Brighsun Ev Group Pty Ltd Address: 319 Hallam North Road Lysterfield South VIC Australia Phone: +60 11-3998 6946 Website: https://www.brighsun.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/182037 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - Cabral Gold Inc. (TSXV: CBR) (OTC: CBGZF)("Cabral" or the "Company")is pleased to announce that all resolutions were passed at its annual general meeting of shareholders (the "AGM") held in Vancouver on September 26, 2023. All of the nominees for election as directors of the Company listed in the Company's information circular dated August 18, 2023, were re-elected for the ensuing year and the number of directors was fixed at six (6). Alan Carter, Mark Smith, Sami Arap, Jonathan Gilligan, Ian Gendall and Lawrence Lepard were all re-elected as directors of the Company. DeVisser Gray were re-appointed as auditors for the Company for the ensuing year. The Company's omnibus equity compensation plan (the "Omnibus Plan") was also approved at the AGM. The Omnibus Plan includes the ability to issue stock options ("Options"), restricted share units ("RSUs"), performance share units ("PSUs"), and deferred share units ("DSUs", and together with Options, RSUs, PSUs, the "Awards"). The maximum number of common shares which may be issued in respect of Awards (including Awards granted pursuant to the RSU Plan, as defined below) will not exceed 10% of the total number of issued common shares at the time an Award is granted. The Omnibus Plan has a "rolling" limit, as the number of common shares reserved for issuance pursuant to the grant of Awards will automatically increase as the Company's issued and outstanding share capital increases. Once approved by the TSX Venture Exchange, the Omnibus Plan will replace the Company's existing stock option plan. Any Options currently issued and outstanding pursuant to the Company's existing stock option plan will continue to be exercisable but will be governed by the Omnibus Plan. Any RSUs currently issued and outstanding pursuant to the Company's existing 2019 RSU plan (the "RSU Plan") will continue to be governed by the RSU Plan, however the RSU Plan will be closed to any new grants and any new RSU grants will be governed by the Omnibus Plan. A copy of the Omnibus Plan and further details are included in the Company's management information circular prepared for the Meeting and filed under the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. The Company notes that Karen Mate, an investor relations service provider through Capital Markets Advisory CA, holds an aggregate of 600,000 stock options of the Company (200,000 options exercisable at $0.27 until July 21, 2025; 150,000 exercisable at $0.60 until November 12, 2025; and 250,000 options exercisable at $0.51 until August 30, 2026). For further information regarding the Company's investor relations services agreement with Capital Markets Advisory CA please see the Company's news release dated August 15, 2023. About Cabral Gold Inc. The Company is a junior resource company engaged in the identification, exploration and development of mineral properties, with a primary focus on gold properties located in Brazil. The Company has a 100% interest in the Cui Cuiu gold district located in the Tapajos Region, within the state of Para in northern Brazil. Two main gold deposits have so far been defined at the Cuiu Cuiu project which contains National Instrument 43-101 compliant Indicated resources of 21.6Mt @ 0.87 g/t gold (604,000 oz) and Inferred resources of 19.8Mt @ 0.84 g/t gold (534,500 oz). The Tapajos Gold Province is the site of the largest gold rush in Brazil's history producing an estimated 30 to 50 million ounces of placer gold between 1978 and 1995. Cuiu Cuiu was the largest area of placer workings in the Tapajos and produced an estimated 2Moz of placer gold historically. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: "Alan Carter" President and Chief Executive Officer Cabral Gold Inc. Tel: 604.676.5660 Guillermo Hughes, MAusIMM and FAIG., a consultant to the Company as well as a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, supervised the preparation of the technical information in this news release. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as such term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-looking Statements This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities legislation (collectively "forward-looking statements"). The use of the words "will", "expected" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements should not be unduly relied upon. The Company believes the expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/182194 Cranbrook, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - DLP Resources Inc.(TSXV: DLP) (OTCQB: DLPRF)(the "Company")is pleased to announce that it has closed the first tranche (the "First Tranche") of its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement"), whereby the Company has completed the issuance of 4,000,250 units (each, a "Unit") at a price of $0.50 per Unit for gross proceeds of $2,000,125. Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (a "Share") and one common share purchase warrant of the Company (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one common share in the capital of the Company (a "Warrant Share") for a period of twenty-four (24) months from the date of issue at an exercise price of $0.80 per Warrant Share, subject to an acceleration clause in the event the trading price of the Shares equals or exceeds $1.10 for a period of 20 consecutive days. In connection with the First Tranche, the Company issued 88,778 finder's warrants (the "Finder's Warrants") and paid commissions of $44,389. Each Finder's Warrant will entitle the holder, on exercise thereof, to acquire one Share at a price of $0.50 per Share for a period of two (2) years from the date of issuance. The securities offered in the First Tranche are subject to a four month and a day transfer restriction from the date of issuance expiring on January 29, 2023, in addition to such other restrictions as may apply under applicable securities laws of jurisdictions outside Canada. The Company intends to use the proceeds of the First Tranche for funding the Company's Peru projects and general office and administration requirements. Mr. Gendall, President and CEO commented: "With the closing of the first tranche of the private placement we can continue drilling on the Aurora porphyry molybdenum-copper project with another 3000m planned to December 2023. Encouraging results received from the first 10 holes have extended mineralization over a length of 900m and a width of at least 700m. Currently we are drilling A23-012 to a depth of 1000m and results for drillhole A23-011, drilled 249m SW of drillhole A23-010, are expected to be released in early October." Extension of the Private Placement The Company is also pleased to announce that, further to the Company's news release dated August 22, 2023, the TSXV Venture Exchange has granted the Company an extension for the closing of the Private Placement until October 20, 2023. Not for distribution to U.S. news wire services or dissemination in the United States. About DLP Resources Inc. DLP Resources Inc. is a mineral exploration company operating in Southern Peru and Southeastern British Columbia, exploring for Copper, Base Metals and Cobalt. DLP is listed on the TSX-V, trading symbol DLP and on the OTCQB, trading symbol DLPRF. Please refer to our web site www.dlpresourcesinc.com for additional information. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: DLP Resources Inc. Ian Gendall, Chief Executive Officer and President Jim Stypula, Executive Chairman Robin Sudo, Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary Maxwell Reinhart, Investor Relations Telephone: 250-426-7808 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forwardlooking statements", are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements regarding discussions of future plans, estimates and forecasts and statements as to management's expectations and intentions with respect to, among other things: the use of the proceeds raised under the First Tranche and the completion of the Company's drilling program. These forwardlooking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things: market uncertainty, that the Company will not use the proceeds of the First Tranche as currently anticipated and that the Company's drilling program will not complete as currently anticipated. In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, that: the Company will use the proceeds of the First Tranche as currently anticipated and that the Company will complete its drilling program as currently anticipated. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. We seek safe harbor. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/182258 Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - The Tao Calligraphy Transformative Art Exhibition, held on September 21st, 2023, in Toronto, Ontario, marked an intimate art gala that captivated art enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper connection with Tao Calligraphy. Hosted by Dr. & Master Sha, the event showcased artwork that transcends traditional artistry, offering a unique channel for personal transformation. Dr. & Master Sha, Tao Grandmaster, Medical Doctor, Teacher, and Author To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10007/181828_9685f5df147a38ec_001full.jpg Tao Calligraphy is an extraordinary art form that merges the precision of Chinese calligraphy with wisdom spanning millennia. It distinguishes itself through the concept of "oneness writing," where the brush maintains contact with the parchment, transmitting the energy and wisdom from Taothe source of all life. As Master Sha often emphasizes, Tao Calligraphy provides a unique opportunity for individuals to harmonize their soul, heart, mind, and body. Owning a piece of Tao Calligraphy becomes a transformative journey, offering guidance on how to interact with the art, leading to profound transformation and rejuvenation across various aspects of life. At the gala event, two Tao Calligraphies, Tao Ye Chang Sheng and Da Ai Tao Calligraphy, stood out, deeply resonating with attendees. Tao Ye Chang Sheng symbolizes blessings for flourishing careers and businesses by radiating love, light, and positivity. Da Ai Tao Calligraphy represents unconditional love, a force at the core of removing obstacles in various aspects of life. Dr. & Master Sha Working on a Piece of Tao Calligraphy To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10007/181828_9685f5df147a38ec_002full.jpg The Tao Calligraphy Transformative Art Exhibition was not only a celebration of art but also a remarkable success in terms of sales. The exhibition generated an impressive revenue of C$3.9 million, with one artwork selling for a remarkable $500,000. This overwhelming response underscores the profound appreciation that people have for Master Shas artwork and the transformative potential it holds. Collectors and enthusiasts alike were drawn to the depth, energy, and beauty that each piece embodied. The significant sales from this event will contribute to the promotion and advancement of Tao wisdom and practices, ensuring that more people worldwide can benefit from their transformative properties. Media Contact Name: Dr. and Master Zhi Gang Sha Email: [email protected] Phone: 888 339 6815 Website: https://drsha.com/ To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/181828 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - Pacific Ridge Exploration Ltd. (TSXV: PEX) (OTCQB: PEXZF) ("Pacific Ridge" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed its oversubscribed non-brokered private placement (the "Offering") by issuing 3,672,667 units at a price of $0.18 per unit for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of $661,080.06. Each unit consists of one common share of the Company and one common share purchase warrant, with each warrant entitling the holder to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of $0.27 at any time on or before September 28, 2025. The securities are subject to a hold period ending on January 29, 2024. Proceeds from the sale of units will be used for general working capital. In connection with the Offering, Pacific Ridge paid finder's fees totaling $16,864.79. The Offering and payment of finder's fees is subject to TSX Ven ture Exchange acceptance. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. About Pacific Ridge Our goal is to become British Columbia's leading copper-gold exploration company. Pacific Ridge's flagship asset is its 100% owned Kliyul copper-gold project, located in the Quesnel Terrane close to existing infrastructure. In addition to Kliyul, the Company's project portfolio includes the RDP copper-gold project (optioned to Antofagasta Minerals S.A.), the Chuchi copper-gold project, the Onjo copper-gold project, and the Redton copper-gold project, all located in British Columbia. Pacific Ridge would like to acknowledge that its B.C. projects are located in the traditional, ancestral and unceded territories of the Gitxsan Nation, McLeod Lake Indian Band, Nak'azdli Whut'en, Takla Nation, and Tsay Keh Dene Nation. On behalf of the Board of Directors, "Blaine Monaghan" Blaine Monaghan President & CEO Pacific Ridge Exploration Ltd. Corporate Contact: Blaine Monaghan President & CEO Tel: (604) 687-4951 www.pacificridgeexploration.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-ridge-exploration-ltd-pex-/ https://twitter.com/PacRidge_PEX Investor Contact: G2 Consultants Corp. Telephone: +1 778-678-9050 Email: [email protected] Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Information: This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, which address exploration drilling and other activities and events or developments that Pacific Ridge Exploration Ltd. ("Pacific Ridge") expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Although Pacific Ridge believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include market prices, exploration successes, and continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. These statements are based on a number of assumptions including, among other things, assumptions regarding general business and economic conditions, that one of the options will be exercised, the ability of Pacific Ridge and other parties to satisfy stock exchange and other regulatory requirements in a timely manner, the availability of financing for Pacific Ridge's proposed programs on reasonable terms, and the ability of third party service providers to deliver services in a timely manner. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Pacific Ridge does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/182287 Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - Psyched Wellness Ltd. (CSE: PSYC) (OTCQB: PSYCF) (FSE: 5U9) (the "Company" or "Psyched"), a life sciences company focused on the production and distribution of health and wellness products derived from the Amanita Muscaria mushroom, is excited to announce they will be sponsoring, attending, and activating at the Wonderland Conference in Miami FL. The conference takes place November 9th to 11th. Psyched has aligned on both direct and indirect sampling initiatives with conference organizers. They will also have a booth on the conference floor to engage with consumers while speaking to their existing and expanding product line. Jeff Stevens, Psyched Wellness Chief Executive Officer, commented, "We are thrilled to be back in Miami at the Wonderland Conference. It provides us with the perfect venue to meet our existing customers and to introduce Calm to the over 1500 people expected to attend. As the only company with AME-1, a proprietary extract of the Amanita Muscaria mushroom that has obtained self-Gras status (an FDA path to market for food supplements), Calm is the obvious safe, standardized, and legal choice for consumers looking for Amanita Muscaria products in the USA." The company invites all conference attendees to visit their booth and introduce Calm into their lives. The Psyched Wellness community can save 20% on Wonderland tickets with the code PSYCHED20 at https://wonderlandconference.com/tickets. If you are interested in distributing/listing Calm please reach out to [email protected]. Visit https://shop.psyched-wellness.com/ for more information about ordering the product directly. For further information, please contact: Jeffrey Stevens Chief Executive Officer Psyched Wellness Ltd. Tel: 647-400-8494 Email: [email protected] Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider have reviewed or accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. About Psyched Wellness Ltd.: Psyched Wellness Ltd. is a Canadian-based health supplements company dedicated to the distribution of mushroom-derived products and associated consumer packaged goods. The Company's objective is to create premium mushroom-derived products that have the potential to become a leading North American brand in the emerging functional food category. The Company is in the process of developing a line of Amanita muscaria-derived water-based extracts, teas and capsules designed to help with three health objectives: promote stress relief, relaxation and assist with restful sleeping. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Information This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. The forward-looking information and forward- looking statements contained herein include, but are not limited to, statements regarding: the ability of the Company to develop Amanita Muscaria-derived products; the safety of Amanita Muscaria consumption and the safety and purity of any extracts thereof; and (ii) the uses and potential benefits of Amanita Muscaria. Forward-looking information in this news release are based on certain assumptions and expected future events, namely: the Company's ability to continue as a going concern; the Company's ability to continue to develop its mushroom-derived products and associated consumer packaged goods; continued approval of the Company's activities by the relevant governmental and/or regulatory authorities; and the continued growth of the Company. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements, including but not limited to: the potential inability of the Company to continue as a going concern; risks associated with potential governmental and/or regulatory action with respect to the Company's operations; competition within the psychedelics market; risks with respect to the safety of Amanita Muscaria consumption and the safety and purity of any extracts thereof; and the risk that there is no potential benefit of Amanita Muscaria consumption. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement and reflect the Company's expectations as of the date hereof and are subject to change thereafter. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, estimates or opinions, future events or results or otherwise or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking information, except as required by applicable law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/182212 Washington, D.C.--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - The Securities and Exchange Commission today charged Exelon Corporation, electric utility company Commonwealth Edison Company (ComEd), which is Exelons subsidiary, and former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore with fraud in connection with a multi-year scheme to corruptly influence and reward then-Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives Michael Madigan. Exelon and ComEd agreed to settle the charges, with Exelon paying a civil penalty of $46.2 million. The charges against Pramaggiore will be litigated. According to the SECs order against Exelon and ComEd, from 2011 through 2019, ComEd arranged for various associates of Madigan to obtain jobs, subcontracts, and monetary payments, all with the intent to influence Madigan regarding legislation favorable to ComEd. The order finds that ComEd arranged payments to Madigans associates through third-party vendors to conceal the size of the payments and to assist ComEd in denying responsibility for oversight of Madigans associates, who in some instances did little to none of the work for which they were hired. The order finds that ComEd made indirect payments totaling more than $1.3 million to Madigans associates. In a deferred prosecution agreement entered into with criminal authorities, ComEd acknowledged that Madigans support of legislation favoring ComEd resulted in reasonably foreseeable anticipated benefits to ComEd of more than $150 million. The SECs complaint against Pramaggiore alleges that she participated in, and in some instances directed, the bribery scheme. The complaint alleges that Pramaggiore did not disclose the bribery scheme and instead misled investors when she characterized ComEds lobbying activities as legitimate. The complaint also alleges that, as part of the scheme, Pramaggiore lied to Exelons auditors and filed false certifications. As alleged in our complaint, Pramaggiores remarks to investors about ComEds lobbying efforts hid the reality of the long-running political corruption scheme in which they were engaged, said LeeAnn G. Gaunt, Chief of the SEC Enforcement Divisions Public Finance Abuse Unit. When corporate executives speak to investors, they must not mislead by omission. Exelon and ComEd consented to the SECs cease-and-desist order finding that they violated antifraud and books and records and internal accounting controls provisions of the federal securities laws. Exelon agreed to pay a $46.2 million civil penalty. The SECs complaint alleges that Pramaggiore violated antifraud and books and records and internal accounting controls provisions of the federal securities laws and that she aided and abetted Exelons and ComEds violations of books and records and internal accounting controls provisions. The SEC seeks permanent injunctive relief, disgorgement plus prejudgment interest, a civil penalty, and an officer and director bar against her. The SECs investigation was conducted by Natalie Garner, Sally Hewitt, and Kristal Olson of the Public Finance Abuse Unit and Will Saylor of the SECs Chicago Regional Office. The investigation was supervised by Brian Fagel. The SECs litigation will be conducted by Jonathan Polish. The SEC appreciates the assistance of the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Northern District of Illinois. Tbilisi, Georgia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2023) - Tsinandali Estate and Silk Road Group proudly announce the inaugural Tsinandali Wine Symposium on November 3-4, a collaboration with the renowned Swiss association, Grand Jury Du Vin. Founded in Switzerland in 1996, Grand Jury Du Vin has been at the forefront of the wine industry, having organized many prestigious events like the wine symposiums at Italy's Villa d'Este on Lake Como. Tsinandali Estate andSilk Road Groupannounce the inaugural Tsinandali Wine Symposium on November 3-4 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8721/182243_tws-cover.jpg Wine experts, sommeliers, journalists, and enthusiasts from around the world will attend the wine symposium at Tsinandali Estate. They'll get to taste top "Bordeaux Grand Cru" wines and the best wines from Georgia. At the symposium, representatives of the Grand Jury Du Vin will also offer professional tastings of selected Georgian and international wines. The wine symposium's program also features a cultural segment where guests can immerse themselves in Georgian culture and gastronomy. Attendees will enjoy classical and jazz music concerts, a Georgian folklore evening featuring the Sukhishvili National Ballet, and a gala dinner crafted jointly by a 3-star Michelin chef, Jan Hartwig and the brand chef of Silk Hospitality, Irakli Asatiani. The Tsinandali Wine Symposium is an initiative of the Silk Road Group with official support from the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, the Bank of Georgia, and the National Tourism Administration. Mr. Levan Davitashvili, Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, and Mrs. Mariam Kvrivishvili, Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, serve as esteemed hosts alongside the Silk Road Group and Grand Jury Du Vin. The symposium's executive team features Laurent Vialette, the president of Grand Jury Du Vin, and Giorgi Kharabadze, the CEO of the Tsinandali Estate. George Ramishvili, the founder and chairman of Silk Road Group - "The Tsinandali Wine Symposium marks a significant milestone in the history of the estate and promotes the growth of wine tourism in Georgia. We're bringing together the world's most influential winemakers, experts, sommeliers, journalists, and critics all in one spot at the Tsinandali Estate. A highlight will be a tasting of 2010 Bordeaux Grand Cru wines, a significant chapter in our wine heritage that's unparalleled in the region. I'm grateful for the support of the Government of Georgia and the Bank of Georgia, reinforcing our commitment to elevate the symposium's standards and spotlight Georgia as a prime destination for wine aficionados. It's a matter of pride for us that this symposium will be inaugurated in Tsinandali, the birthplace of modern Georgian winemaking, where Alexander Chavchavadze first bottled Georgian wine using European techniques." Press Contact: Akaki Akhalaia [email protected] To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/182243 This photo taken on July 29, 2023 shows the Pakistan Monument with a special illumination to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the launch of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in Islamabad, capital of Pakistan. (Str/Xinhua) Talking about the active participation of China in international forums in upholding global human rights governance, the expert said that the country has engaged constructively with the Human Rights Council and other United Nations human rights mechanisms, reflecting its willingness to be a part of the global dialogue on human rights. by Raheela Nazir ISLAMABAD, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Adhering to the visionary concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind, China has been playing an exemplary role in promoting fairer, more just and inclusive global human rights governance, a Pakistani expert has said. China's major global initiatives including the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative are particularly relevant to the improvement of global human rights governance, Farhat Asif, president of an Islamabad-based think-tank, said in a recent interview with Xinhua. "The emphasis on promoting human rights through development aligns with the idea that sustainable development is a key driver of improved human rights conditions," the president of the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies said, highlighting that economic growth, access to education, healthcare, and basic amenities are central to the realization of human rights. Asif underlined that China's policy of non-interference in the internal affairs of sovereign nations remained crucial in safeguarding the sovereignty and dignity of all nations. "Unlike some Western nations, China does not impose its values, culture or political systems on others, which resonates with many developing countries seeking to chart their own paths to development and self-determination, an approach that is often appreciated by many countries in the developing world," she added. Talking about the active participation of China in international forums in upholding global human rights governance, the expert said that the country has engaged constructively with the Human Rights Council and other United Nations human rights mechanisms, reflecting its willingness to be a part of the global dialogue on human rights. This photo taken on Sept. 20, 2023 shows the 54th Human Rights Council, in Geneva, Switzerland. China and like-minded countries highlighted the importance of promoting inclusive societies to benefit women with disabilities and to contribute to their equal life and development. (Xinhua/Lian Yi) Also, China's promotion of exchanges and cooperation with other countries in the field of human rights fosters a culture of mutual learning and understanding, she said, adding that by sharing experiences and best practices, China has contributed to the development of a more just and inclusive global human rights system. Noting that the challenges of unbalanced, unsustainable development and the politicization of human rights remained significant impediments to the advancement of human society, Asif called for a cooperative and inclusive approach to addressing global challenges. "China's approach encourages countries to work together in a spirit of cooperation rather than confrontation, which can help reduce the politicization of human rights issues and create a more conducive environment for dialogue," she added. Focusing on the interconnectedness of nations and the shared future of humanity, China's ideas and initiatives in the realm of global human rights governance offer a promising path toward further progress in the global human rights cause. Beacon Al Manal LLC is a specialized agency for overseas business owners looking to establish or grow their presence in the United Arab Emirates. The United Arab Emirates has emerged as a popular destination for setting up a business or expanding in the Middle East market, thanks to its robust regime, skilled workforce, and tax-free environment. UAE's most populated city, Dubai, offers modern infrastructure, transportation, dedicated trade zones, and a global talent pool, making it one of the most favorable business environments for entrepreneurs, corporations, and startups in the Middle East. However, starting a business in Dubai or anywhere else in UAE will require knowledge about various regulatory regimes, registration with respective government departments, and licenses to operate successfully. So consulting a reputed agency like Beacon Al Manal LLC can be beneficial for business owners to understand the requirements and follow the procedures before starting a company in Dubai, UAE. Like other countries, UAE also has a set of regulations and procedures a business must follow before opening a business in Dubai. That means understanding the legal structures, company registration, legal framework, differences between trade zones, banking, and obtaining licenses. Moreover, businesses must conduct market research to identify the demand, consumer trends, and viability of setting up an office in Dubai. Those new to the UAE business environment can feel overwhelmed navigating this landscape and making sound decisions after weighing the pros and cons of establishing a shop in the UAE. Although searching online to get a general idea about how to start a business in UAE provides some insights, the scattered information may not offer a clear-cut path. Another option is searching online for a "business set-up company Dubai," which can streamline their process. For example, Beacon Al Manal LLC is an agency specializing in establishing tax-free companies in the United Arab Emirates. "Beacon LLC is most probably the best group to help you create your company in Dubai, take care of your visa, bank, and all the services you would need! And their prices are very competitive, we now live in Dubai and are all set and they keep helping us whenever we need or have any questions. I recommend it 100%." - Cyrielle Goupil, Client Testimonials. An expert can provide guidance and support to streamline the entire process for business owners. These professionals usually start with understanding the client's specific business goals, the type of industry they aim for, budget, and other requirements. Then, they educate their clients about the company registration process, including compliance and regulatory framework, and preparation of necessary documents. This includes choosing an appropriate company name and legal structure, acquiring the required licenses and permits, and completing the registration process. Overseas investors should also know about different jurisdictions in the UAE. There are mainly three: Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore. The investor or entrepreneur must evaluate these distinctions and choose the jurisdiction that aligns with their business goals. Investors looking to sell a product or service inside UAE and offshore will benefit from establishing a company on the Mainland. The freedom to trade onshore and offshore is the defining feature of a corporation based on the UAE Mainland. Investment in a UAE Mainland company grants that company permission to trade within and outside the UAE. However, a Mainland company must have a physical office in the country. On the other hand, companies operating in Free Zone can operate within and outside the country but not outside the jurisdiction. Companies can be formed in a Free Zone without a physical office. All corporations established within a given free zone are subject to the laws and regulations of that zone. Those looking to establish a business in Dubai Free Zones, such as DMCC, JAFZA, and others, can choose a suitable zone depending on the nature of their business. For example, the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) is a dedicated zone for commodity trading. Similarly, tech entrepreneurs and software businesses can take advantage of full ownership, tax exemptions, and superior infrastructure available at Dubai Internet City (DIC). These are only a few of the UAE's many trade zones; each offers its unique combination of tax breaks, regulatory leniency, and industrial emphasis. Learning about and comparing the various zones' criteria, permissible activities, ownership limitations, and incentives is crucial for selecting the free zone that is the best fit for a company's needs. Investors should note that forming a Mainland company requires a local sponsor and sponsor agreement. In addition, business owners have to take care of compliance, visa processing, and bank accounts before establishing a company in Dubai. That's why many overseas businesses hire expert agencies to streamline their business set-up process. For example, local consultancy services like Beacon Al Manal LLC provide a hassle-free experience by providing valuable guidance and support, including market study, visa processing, bank account opening, regulatory compliance, and licensing. Depending on the client's needs and budget, they can also help locate an appropriate commercial property in Dubai, such as an office building or a warehouse. They may assist with lease negotiations and offer advice on how to set up the essential facilities for operations. In addition, they stick with their clients even after the formalities of setting up a company have been accomplished, providing them with continuing support and advice. Every business aspect is covered, from day-to-day operations to human resources and hiring to business growth and overcoming obstacles. About Us: Since 2014, Beacon Al Manal LLC has established itself as a reliable partner for foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and business owners in setting up a company in the UAE. Business owners, entrepreneurs, and corporations can benefit from Beacon Al Manal LLC's expertise, local knowledge, and established networks to streamline setting up a company in Dubai, UAE. They provide a comprehensive solution that simplifies the complexities of company establishment and ensures a smooth entry into the Dubai business landscape. Contact Info: Name: Kinga Szabo Email: Send Email Organization: Al Manal Beacon LLC Address: Floor 19, Al Ghaith Tower - Hamdan Bin Mohammed St - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates Phone: +971 4 598 0888 Website: https://dubaicompanyexpert.com/ Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beaconllc.hun Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beacon_uae Youtube: https://youtube.com/@Dubaicompany Video URL: https://youtu.be/GyOjXxO0Xlw?feature=shared Release ID: 89108191 In case of identifying any problems, concerns, or inaccuracies in the content shared in this press release, or if a press release needs to be taken down, we urge you to notify us immediately by contacting [email protected]. Our dedicated team will be readily accessible to address your concerns and take swift action within 8 hours to rectify any issues identified or assist with the removal process. We are committed to delivering high-quality content and ensuring accuracy for our valued readers. TOKYO, Sept 28, 2023 - (JCN Newswire) - - JCB International Co., Ltd., the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co., Ltd., Japan's only international payment brand, announces the launch of "The heart of HOKKAIDO" program, which provides special offers on shopping and experiences at merchants in Hokkaido, a popular tourist destination, to JCB cardmembers issued outside Japan. This promotion will run from October 1, 2023 to March 31, 2024. During this period, JCB cardmembers will find great discounts and gift offers at selected merchants in Hokkaido. For more information about "The heart of HOKKAIDO", please visit here. https://www.specialoffers.jcb/en/hokkaido_lp/ By offering privileges at a variety of the merchants in Hokkaido with JCB Cards, this program aims to encourage not only shopping but also spending on unique experiences in Hokkaido, which is attracting an increasing number of visitors to Japan. In addition, JCB hopes to contribute to local communities by stimulating visitors' consumption as well as enriching the travel experience of JCB cardmembers. JCB and partner merchants have agreed to launch this program together because of our shared desire to contribute to the development of local communities and to provide visitors to Japan with a uniquely Japanese experience. This program is also in collaboration with JTB Corp. and Fun Japan Communications Co., Ltd., which operates "FUN! JAPAN", the social media platform that provides information on Japanese culture, food, fashion, technology, and business. JCB cardmembers can also enjoy special offers via the special website of "FUN! JAPAN". "The FUN! JAPAN Furusato Membership Program" website is designed to continuously increase the number of fans of Hokkaido, including members who are long lasting repeat visitors to the region and who purchase Hokkaido specialties from overseas via e-commerce. The Campaign Website at "FUN! JAPAN" https://collection.fun-japan.jp/ Role of Each Partner - JCB International Co., Ltd. organizes "The heart of HOKKAIDO" program which provides special offers and discounts at shops and restaurants located in the hub of tourism in Hokkaido and promotes the program via the own media and advertisements, as well as the JTB's program to invite more JCB cardmembers to Hokkaido. - JTB Corp. HOKKAIDO Branch gathers partnered facilities, cooperated with local travel & tourism groups and associations. - JTB Corp. Area Solution Business Division promotes registration of products which make tourists enjoy unique experiences in the region. - Fun Japan Communications Co., Ltd. establishes the campaign website and the community "The FUN! JAPAN Furusato Membership Program". As a Japanese brand with a spirit of hospitality, JCB offers services to enrich the travel experience of JCB cardmembers. Visit "JCB Global", the official YouTube channel, and the "JCB Special Offers" website (*) for information on beneficial promotions and convenient services in multiple languages. *The website is available in English, Korean, Thai, Indonesian, Vietnamese, Simplified Chinese and Traditional Chinese only. For more information about "JCB Global", please visit here. https://www.youtube.com/@jcbglobal7405 For more information about "JCB Special Offers", please visit here. https://www.specialoffers.jcb/en/?r=0 About JCB JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 43million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are now issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 154 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, please visit: www.global.jcb/en/ Contact Ayaka Nakajima Corporate Communications Tel: +81-3-5778-8353 Email: [email protected] Copyright 2023 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved. WASHINGTON , Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Forgings Fair Trade Coalition whose members include Finkl Steel ( Chicago, IL ) and Ellwood Group ( Ellwood City, PA ) has commissioned an expert study to examine whether imports of forged steel fluid end blocks (FEBs) from France , South Korea , and Mexico are being illegally subsidized or dumped into the U.S. market. The leading FEB producers in those countries are Industeel Chateauneuf ( France ), SeAH Changwon ( South Korea ), and Frisa ( Mexico ). Carl Moyer , the Coalition economist who is leading the study, explained: "This work follows a unanimous U.S. Government ruling in early-2021 that FEB imports from China , India , Germany , and Italy were unfairly traded and injured American producers and workers. The Coalition will now examine whether imports from France , South Korea , and Mexico are similarly in violation of U.S. trade laws." The Coalition expects to report the results to its constituent members later this year. For further information, contact: Carl P. Moyer Rock Creek Trade LLP (202) 839-4112 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/american-forging-coalition-eyes-new-trade-case-against-feb-imports-into-us-301942309.html SOURCE American Forgings Fair Trade Coalition SHANGHAI and HONG KONG , Sept. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Antengene Corporation Limited ("Antengene" SEHK: 6996.HK), a leading innovative, commercial-stage global biopharmaceutical company dedicated to discovering, developing and commercializing first-in-class and/or best-in-class medicines for cancer, today announced that it will present five programs at the 2023 Society of Immunology in Cancer Annual Meeting (SITC 2023) to be held in San Diego from November 1-5, 2023 . As the world's largest and most anticipated gathering in the field of immuno-oncology, the SITC Annual Meeting is designed to promote scientific exchanges and cooperation for improving treatment outcomes for cancer patients. The presentations feature five Antengene's clinical and preclinical programs, including two clinical programs, the anti-CD24 monoclonal antibody ATG-031 and the PD-L1/4-1BB bispecific antibody ATG-101; two preclinical programs, the LILRB4 antagonist antibody ATG-034 and the GPRC5D/CD3 T-cell engager ATG-021; as well as the proprietary novel AnTenGager platform. Details of those poster presentations ATG-031(anti-CD24 monoclonal antibody) Title: The preclinical characterization and translational research of ATG-031, a first-in-class humanized anti-CD24 antibody, for the treatment of solid tumors and hematological malignancies Abstract: 1337 Date: November 3, 2023 Time: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Pacific Time; 0:00 AM 10:00 AM Beijing Time , November 4, 2023 ATG-101(PD-L1/4-1BB bispecific antibody) Title: Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals the positive feedback activation loop between T and dendritic cells induced by PD-L1x4-1BB bispecific antibody Abstract: 1112 Date: November 4, 2023 Time: 9:00 AM - 8:30 PM Pacific Time; 0:00 AM 11:30 AM Beijing Time , November 5, 2023 ATG-034 (LILRB4 antagonist antibody) Title: Antibody targeting a specific epitope of LILRB4 induces potent ADCC/ADCP effect against leukemia cells Abstract: 1391 Date: November 3, 2023 Time: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Pacific Time; 0:00 AM 10:00 AM Beijing Time , November 4, 2023 ATG-021 (GPRC5D/CD3 T-cell engager) Title: ATG-021, a novel 2+1 CD3-based T-cell engager (TCE) targeting GPRC5D, demonstrates potent in vivo anti-tumor efficacy with low cytokine release Abstract: 1191 Date: November 3, 2023 Time: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Pacific Time; 0:00 AM 10:00 AM Beijing Time , November 4, 2023 AnTenGager Platform Title: A novel "2+1" bispecific T cell engager platform, enables enhanced anti-tumor activity with reduced risk of CRS Abstract: 1190 Date: November 4, 2023 Time: 9:00 AM - 8:30 PM Pacific Time; 0:00 AM 11:30 AM Beijing Time , November 5, 2023 About Antengene Antengene Corporation Limited ("Antengene", SEHK: 6996.HK) is a leading commercial-stage R&D-driven global biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development, manufacturing and commercialization of innovative first-in-class/best-in-class therapeutics for the treatment of hematologic malignancies and solid tumors, in realizing its vision of "Treating Patients Beyond Borders". Since 2017, Antengene has built a pipeline of 9 oncology assets at various stages going from clinical to commercial, including 6 with global rights, and 3 with rights for the APAC region. To date, Antengene has obtained 29 investigational new drug (IND) approvals in the U.S. and Asia , and submitted 10 new drug applications (NDAs) in multiple Asia Pacific markets, with the NDA for XPOVIO (selinexor) already approved in Mainland of China, Taiwan China , Hong Kong China, South Korea , Singapore and Australia . Forward-looking statements The forward-looking statements made in this article relate only to the events or information as of the date on which the statements are made in this article. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. You should read this article completely and with the understanding that our actual future results or performance may be materially different from what we expect. In this article, statements of, or references to, our intentions or those of any of our Directors or our Company are made as of the date of this article. Any of these intentions may alter in light of future development. For a further discussion of these and other factors that could cause future results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement, please see the other risks and uncertainties described in the Company's Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2022 , and the documents subsequently submitted to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. For more information, please contact: Investor Contacts: Donald Lung E-mail: [email protected] Mobile: +86 18420672158 PR Contacts: Peter Qian E-mail: [email protected] Mobile: +86 13062747000 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/antengene-to-present-results-from-five-studies-at-2023-sitc-annual-meeting-301940227.html SOURCE Antengene Corporation Limited Landmark gathering on sustainable energy will be held in the Caribbean for the first time and will aim to spark action on a just and equitable energy transition VIENNA , Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2024 Sustainable Energy for All Global Forum will be held in Bridgetown, Barbados from 4-6 June, co-hosted by Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) and the Government of Barbados, led by Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley . The SEforALL Global Forum has become the landmark global gathering to drive faster, broader progress towards universal access to sustainable energy as laid out in UN Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7). It is a platform for government, business and finance leaders, entrepreneurs, and youth and community representatives from around the world to come together to broker new partnerships, spur new investment and address emerging challenges. The 2024 event will give particular focus to the imperative for a just and equitable energy transition that delivers climate progress while forging development opportunities for low- and middle-income countries by improving energy access. It will build on the Bridgetown Initiative, started by Prime Minister Mottley, to review how we can reform development finance to mobilize sufficient funds, on the right terms, for equitable and sustainable development. This will be the sixth Global Forum convened by SEforALL, an international organization dedicated to ending energy poverty and fighting climate change. In 2022 the event was held in Rwanda and convened more than 1,300 delegates in person from 116 countries, with more than 3,000 participants online. Prominent speakers at the 2022 edition included H.E. Paul Kagame , President of the Republic of Rwanda ; Michael R. Bloomberg , UN Special Envoy for Climate Ambition and Solutions, and Founder, Bloomberg LP & Bloomberg Philanthropies; and Hon. Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations. More information on the SEforALL Global Forum is available here. Supporting Quotes " Barbados is committed to a sustainable energy transition within our borders and beyond. That is why we are proud to partner with Sustainable Energy for All on this Global Forum, which will be a pivotal moment in the fight for climate justice and ensuring developing countries are supported with their energy transition efforts." "Our goal is to raise ambitions and to continue to signal to the world that the fight against climate change also presents a sustainable development opportunity. We look forward to showcasing these opportunities and more at the SEforALL Global Forum." - Senator the Honourable Lisa Cummins, Minister of Energy and Business Development, Barbados "Under Prime Minister Mottley's leadership, Barbados has become a trailblazer for a just and equitable energy transition. I cannot think of a more fitting place to hold the 2024 SEforALL Global Forum, which will generate bold ideas, commitments and collaborations aimed at ending energy poverty and climate change. - Damilola Ogunbiyi , CEO and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Sustainable Energy for All, and Co-Chair of UN-Energy About Sustainable Energy for All Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) is an international organization that works in partnership with the United Nations and leaders in government, the private sector, financial institutions, civil society and philanthropies to drive faster action towards the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all by 2030 in line with the Paris Agreement on climate. We work to ensure a clean energy transition that leaves no one behind and brings new opportunities for everyone to fulfil their potential. Find out more at www.seforall.org Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2223536/Sustainable_Energy_for_All_Forum.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2223332/SEFA_Forum_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/barbados-to-host-next-sustainable-energy-for-all-global-forum-in-june-2024-301941466.html SOURCE Sustainable Energy for All ATLANTA , Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Cousins Properties (NYSE: CUZ) announced today that it will release its third quarter 2023 earnings after the market closes on Thursday, October 26, 2023 . Cousins will hold its third quarter 2023 earnings conference call on Friday, October 27, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. (Eastern Time). The number for this call is (877) 247-1056. The live webcast of this call can be accessed on the Company's website, www.cousins.com, through the "Cousins Properties Third Quarter Conference Call" link on the Investor Relations page. A playback will be available shortly after the call on Friday, October 27, 2023 and run through Friday, November 3, 2023 . The number for the playback is (877) 344-7529, passcode 9075029. The playback can also be accessed on the Company's website through the "Cousins Properties Third Quarter Conference Call" link on the Investor Relations page. Financial information will be placed on the Company's website promptly after the earnings release announcement. This information will be available in the "Featured Reports" section on the Investor Relations page. This information will also be available through the "SEC Filings" and "Supplemental Information" links on the Investor Relations page. About Cousins Properties Cousins Properties is a fully integrated, self-administered and self-managed real estate investment trust (REIT). The Company, based in Atlanta, GA and acting through its operating partnership, Cousins Properties LP, primarily invests in Class A office buildings located in high-growth Sun Belt markets. Founded in 1958, Cousins creates shareholder value through its extensive expertise in the development, acquisition, leasing and management of high-quality real estate assets. The Company has a comprehensive strategy in place based on a simple platform, trophy assets and opportunistic investments. For more information, please visit www.cousins.com. CONTACT: Roni Imbeaux Vice President, Finance and Investor Relations 404-407-1104 [email protected] View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cousins-properties-announces-dates-for-third-quarter-2023-earnings-release-and-conference-call-301942292.html SOURCE Cousins Properties Orange County Register Readers Choose CU SoCal ANAHEIM HILLS, Calif. , Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Credit Union of Southern California (CU SoCal) has been named the best credit union in Orange County , according to Orange County Register readers. Orange County Register readers submitted CU SoCal for consideration for "Best of Orange County 2023." Voting took place April 24 to May 26 and featured CU SoCal and other credit unions submitted by the publication's readership. Three winners are named in each category, with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prize winners. When the last vote was tallied, CU SoCal took 1st place in the "Best of Orange County 2023: Financial: Best Credit Union" category. "Thank you to our valued Members and the Orange County Register for this incredible honor," said CU SoCal President and CEO Dave Gunderson . "It's long been our goal to provide exceptional experiences, every time. Receiving this honor is evidence we are on the right path." Copies of the "Best of Orange County 2023" magazine were distributed September 24 , and a digital version of the magazine can be found online, here. About Credit Union of Southern California (CU SoCal) Founded in 1954 as Whittier Area Schools Federal Credit Union, CU SoCal is a credit union open to those who live, work, worship, or attend school in Los Angeles , Orange , Riverside and San Bernardino counties. CU SoCal has a superior five-star financial rating from BauerFinancial, holds more than $2.9 billion in assets, and serves more than 154,000 Members. For more information, visit CUSoCal.org. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/credit-union-of-southern-california-named-best-credit-union-in-orange-county-301942332.html SOURCE Credit Union of Southern California BEIJING , Sept. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Chinese government released a white paper on Tuesday to introduce the theoretical base, practice and development of a global community of shared future, as by presenting China's vision of the course of human development, it counters the hegemonic thinking of certain countries that seek supremacy. Ten years ago, Chinese President Xi Jinping put forward the idea of building a global community of shared future. "His proposal lights the path forward as the world fumbles for solutions, and represents China's contribution to global efforts to protect the shared home and create a better future of prosperity for all," according to the white paper, titled "A Global Community of Shared Future: China's Proposals and Actions." The timing of releasing such a document is crucial, as apart from marking the 10th anniversary of the proposal of a significant idea, the world is in severe turbulence and experiencing profound changes which have not been seen in the past century, so the international community has been calling for solutions, and China , as a responsible major power which is much more powerful than it was 10 years ago, has responsibility to contribute its wisdoms and actions to meet the demand of this era, said Chinese analysts. China's proposals and actions are not for China's own benefit or self-interest, but for the common good of humanity, experts said. The white paper said "To build a global community of shared future is to pursue openness, inclusiveness, mutual benefit, equity and justice." The goal is not to replace one system or civilization with another. Instead, it is about countries with different social systems, ideologies, histories, shared rights, and shared responsibilities in global affairs, the document read. The concept of a global community of shared future has deep roots in China's profound cultural heritage and its unique experience of modernization. It carries forward the diplomatic traditions of China and draws on the outstanding achievements of all other civilizations, the white paper said. It also manifests China's time-honored historical traditions, distinct characteristics of the times, and a wealth of humanistic values. The white paper also pointed out the direction and plan to build a global community of shared future including pressing ahead with a new type of economic globalization in which countries need to pursue a policy of openness and explicitly oppose protectionism, the erection of fences and barriers, unilateral sanctions, and maximum-pressure tactics, so as to connect economies and jointly build an open world economy. Wirun Phichaiwongphakdee, director of the Thailand-China Research Center of the Belt and Road Initiative, exemplified by a number of BRI projects in Southeast Asia including the China-Thailand Railway being built, which he said demonstrates how China and the ASEAN are working together to build a community of shared future. China is not just providing proposals, but also actively implements its own ideas by actions, and has provided the world with extensive achievements. Over the past decade, China has contributed its strength to building a global community of shared future with firm conviction and solid actions. For instance, by July 2023 , more than three-quarters of countries in the world and over 30 international organizations had signed agreements on Belt and Road cooperation with China . The BRI originated in China but the opportunities and achievements it creates belong to the whole world. It's an initiative for economic cooperation, not for geopolitical or military alliances, and it's an open and inclusive process that neither targets nor excludes any party, the white paper said. Among several BRI projects, for example, the China-Laos Railway began operation on December 3, 2021 , with 167 tunnels and 301 bridges built in 11 years along its total length of 1,035 kilometers. The railway construction created more than 110,000 local jobs, and helped build about 2,000 kilometers of roads and canals for villages along the railway, benefiting local people. Also, through the mediation of China , Saudi Arabia and Iran achieved historic reconciliation earlier this year, setting a fine example for countries in the region to resolve disputes and differences and achieve good neighborly relations through dialogue and consultation, and catalyzing a wave of reconciliation in the Middle East . China has also proposed a range of regional and bilateral initiatives on building communities of shared future and working with stakeholders to build consensus and expand cooperation, thereby playing a constructive role in promoting regional peace and development. It also boosts international cooperation in fields including fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing disorder in cyberspace governance and dealing with the global climate challenge. Over the past decade, the vision of a global community of shared future has gained broader support. More countries and people have come to the understanding that this vision serves the common interests of humanity, represents popular calls for peace, justice and progress, and can create the greatest synergy among all nations for building a better world, the white paper said. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-times-china-releases-a-white-paper-on-its-proposals-actions-on-building-a-global-community-of-shared-future-301941104.html SOURCE Global Times RICE LAKE, Wis. , Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Henry Repeating Arms, one of the country's leading firearms manufacturers and a world leader in the lever action category, is proud to announce its latest Guns for Great Causes campaign with the donation of fifty limited-edition "Team Kaia" rifles. The rifles are available online, and all proceeds will be presented to the family of 8-year-old Kaia Lauro to provide direct financial relief for mounting medical expenses. Kaia was diagnosed with Stage 4 Neuroblastoma in 2019, a rare childhood cancer that formed in her adrenal gland and later spread to her bone and bone marrow. Treatment started immediately following her diagnosis with a grueling 8-hour surgery. Since diagnosis, Kaia has undergone countless chemotherapy treatments, painful immunotherapy sessions, Metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) radiation, focused radiation, stem cell infusions, and blood transfusions. Mariann Tepedino , a friend of the Lauro family and advocate for Kaia, brought the child's story to the attention of Anthony Imperato , Founder & CEO of Henry Repeating Arms, who immediately got the campaign in motion. "Time and time again, I find myself humbled by the unwavering generosity and support from the firearms community for a total stranger whenever we unveil a new Guns for Great Causes campaign, and I am confident that this will be no exception," said Imperato. "More humbling though is the tenacity and courage with which Kaia forges on with her friends and family at her back and a smile on her face." The Henry "Team Kaia" rifle features a unique brushed metal finish on the receiver cover and barrel band, genuine American walnut stocks, a large loop lever, a 17" blued steel octagon barrel, fully adjustable sights, and a magazine tube with capacity for 12 rounds of .22 LR or 16 rounds of .22 Short. Exclusive to this rifle is the highly detailed, whimsical design on the buttstock, which is laser engraved and painted by hand in full color. The design features the pony that Kaia frequents for rides at a local farm, a tiara of flowers as a nod to her love of fictional princesses, and a gold awareness ribbon, symbolizing hope for pediatric cancer. The words "Never Ever Give Up" are engraved along the flowers. Baron Engraving of Trumbull, Connecticut , donated the artwork, engraving, and hand-painted embellishments. To purchase the "Team Kaia" rifle, visit henryusa.com/teamkaia. The first and last rifles in the series are up for auction to enhance fundraising efforts. The auctions close on October 11th at 9:00 PM Eastern. All firearm purchases must ship to a federally licensed firearms dealer. To learn more about Henry Repeating Arms and its products, visit henryusa.com. About Henry Repeating Arms: Henry Repeating Arms is one of the leading firearm manufacturers in the United States and a world leader in the lever action category. The company's motto is "Made in America, or not made at all," and its firearms come with a lifetime guarantee backed by award-winning customer service. The company is also known for its Guns for Great Causes charitable program, which focuses on assisting the families of sick children, children's hospitals, military veteran organizations, law enforcement and first responder groups, Second Amendment advocacy groups, and wildlife conservation organizations. Henry Repeating Arms employs over 600 people and has over 350,000sf of manufacturing space in its Wisconsin and New Jersey facilities. The company is named in honor of Benjamin Tyler Henry , who invented and patented the Henry lever action rifle in 1860 the first practical repeating rifle and America's unique contribution to the international stage of firearms design. Visit Henry Repeating Arms online at henryusa.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/HenryRepeating, and @henry_rifles on Instagram. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/henry-repeating-arms-donates-50-engraved-and-hand-painted-rifles-for-8-year-old-girls-cancer-treatments-301941748.html SOURCE Henry Repeating Arms BOGOTA, Colombia , Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ecopetrol S.A. (BVC: ECOPETROL; NYSE: EC) ("Ecopetrol") reports that Moody's Investors Service ("Moody's") affirmed Ecopetrol's global credit rating at Baa3 with negative outlook and maintained its individual credit rating (BCA1) at ba3. Ecopetrol's ratings continue to reflect the company's status as Colombia's leading oil and gas producer, as well as the significance of its large power transmission business in Colombia and other countries in Latin America. The rating agency highlighted Ecopetrol's reserve replacement strategy in recent years, the support from the Government of Colombia and the access to global and Colombian capital markets, that will enable the company to meet its financial obligations. Moody's also highlighted the solid and stable cash flow from Ecopetrol's subsidiaries Interconexion Electrica S.A. E.S.P. and Cenit S.A.S. Ecopetrol is the largest company in Colombia and one of the main integrated energy companies in the American continent, with more than 18,000 employees. In Colombia , it is responsible for more than 60% of the hydrocarbon production of most transportation, logistics, and hydrocarbon refining systems, and it holds leading positions in the petrochemicals and gas distribution segments. With the acquisition of 51.4% of ISA's shares, the company participates in energy transmission, the management of real-time systems (XM), and the Barranquilla - Cartagena coastal highway concession. At the international level, Ecopetrol has a stake in strategic basins in the American continent, with Drilling and Exploration operations in the United States (Permian basin and the Gulf of Mexico ), Brazil , and Mexico , and, through ISA and its subsidiaries, Ecopetrol holds leading positions in the power transmission business in Brazil , Chile , Peru , and Bolivia, road concessions in Chile , and the telecommunications sector. This press release contains business prospect statements, operating and financial result estimates, and statements related to Ecopetrol's growth prospects. These are all projections and, as such, they are based solely on the expectations of the managers regarding the future of the company and their continued access to capital to finance the company's business plan. The realization of said estimates in the future depends on the behavior of market conditions, regulations, competition, and the performance of the Colombian economy and the industry, among other factors, and are consequently subject to change without prior notice. This release contains statements that may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All forward-looking statements, whether made in this release or in future filings or press releases, or orally, address matters that involve risks and uncertainties, including in respect of the Company's prospects for growth and its ongoing access to capital to fund the Company's business plan, among others. Consequently, changes in the following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from those included in the forward-looking statements: market prices of oil & gas, our exploration, and production activities, market conditions, applicable regulations, the exchange rate, the Company's competitiveness and the performance of Colombia's economy and industry, to mention a few. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements. For more information, please contact: Head of Capital Markets Carolina Tovar Aragon Email: [email protected] Head of Corporate Communications Marcela Ulloa Email: [email protected] 1 Baseline Credit Assessment View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/moodys-investors-service-affirmed-ecopetrol-sas-investment-grade-rating-at-baa3-301942375.html SOURCE Ecopetrol S.A. YANGON, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar authorities have seized 435 kilograms of crystal meth in the country's central region of Mandalay, according to a statement from the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control (CCDAC) late Wednesday. Acting on a tipoff, anti-narcotics police searched a motorcycle and a vehicle in Yamethin Township in the region on Sept. 24 and confiscated the narcotic drugs, the statement said. The seized narcotics are worth approximately 8.7 billion kyats (over 4.14 million U.S. dollars), and two suspects were arrested in the case, the CCDAC said. Investigation showed that the narcotic drugs came from Shan state, it said. The suspects were charged under the country's Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law, and further investigations were underway, it said. EMERYVILLE, Calif. , Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Adventure enthusiasts and travelers seeking unparalleled experiences are in for a treat as Mountain Travel Sobek The Adventure Company unveils its much-anticipated top new adventures for 2024. Renowned for creating extraordinary journeys that blend active exploration with cultural immersion, the adventure travel pioneer continues to set new standards in the industry. With over five decades of expertise, Mountain Travel Sobek continues to redefine adventure travel. Luxury Patagonia Hiking: This luxurious new once-in-a-lifetime trip offers exclusive accommodations, gourmet dining, and breathtaking treks through the iconic landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park in Chile and Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina . A must-do for the hiking enthusiast who is looking for indulgent comfort and cuisine at the end of each day! El Camino Portugues: For pilgrims and history buffs alike, the Camino Portugues route promises an unforgettable hiking journey from Lisbon (Portugal) to Santiago de Compostela ( Spain ). Walk through picturesque Portuguese landscapes, uncovering centuries of heritage and spirituality along the way. Luxury Galapagos & Ecuadorian Cloud Forest : Delve into the unique ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador's Andean cloud forest in comfort and refinement on this luxury small-group adventure. Snorkel with marine life, hike volcanic terrain, and gain insights from expert naturalist guides. Norway Mountains & Fjords : Discover the wonders of Norway on foot, by kayak and by train, on this awe-inspiring adventure. Follow the Old King's Road and bask in the breathtaking beauty of UNESCO -listed Geirangerfjord as you tap into your inner Viking. West Africa Ghana, Togo & Benin : Feel the soulful spirit of West Africa on this immersive multi-country adventure brimming with ancient festivals, colorful masks, traditional art forms, and Voodoo. Experience a diversity of cultures and history in one multi-country adventure. Texas Big Bend National Park : Explore rugged canyons of the Rio Grande in Big Bend National Parka true gem of the American Southwestand summit Emory Peak in the Chisos Mountains . Stargaze at night and end your trip in vibrant Marfa , Texas. "We are thrilled to introduce these meticulously crafted journeys, designed to inspire a deeper connection with the world around us," says Massimo Prioreschi , CEO of Mountain Travel Sobek. "These new adventures provide unforgettable experiences that blend adventure, cultural immersion, and luxury." With over five decades of expertise, Mountain Travel Sobek continues to redefine adventure travel. For more information and booking details, please visit www.mtsobek.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mountain-travel-sobek-announces-top-6-new-adventures-for-2024-301940896.html SOURCE Mountain Travel Sobek WASHINGTON , Sept. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Following is a statement from Eileen O'Reilly , president of the National Press Club, and Gil Klein , president of the National Press Club Journalism Institute, on the decision by China to delay a verdict in sentencing well-known Chinese journalist, Yuyu Dong for alleged acts of espionage. " China is the world's No. 1 jailer of journalists, so convicting journalists as a form of punishment is nothing new for them. But, delaying the verdict in the espionage case of journalist Yuyu Dong may signal a new and very dangerous era has begun. Mr. Dong is not a spy, so China had no evidence to present at trial. They delayed the verdict until Sept. 27 . Now they are delaying again for three months. If they had even a shred of evidence they would have convicted him a year ago. Yet, Mr. Dong is the most senior and most prominent Chinese journalist known to be unjustly imprisoned in China . He is well known to the academic and journalism communities in Japan and the U.S. He is the epitome of the kind of people-to-people exchanges that China has been working so hard to establish and maintain for the past 30 years. That era is now over. In its place is China's new anti-espionage act where any scholar or journalist (even the dean of the Beijing press corps) who is in contact with universities or similar communities overseas is in danger of being jailed for espionage. The trial for this case took place in secret in late July. Mr. Dong's family and friends were not allowed to attend. No press was allowed to attend the trial. There is no published record for the public to read. This is how journalists are sent to prison in China . Mr. Dong was arrested in February 2022 . He was held for 18 months without charges or a trial. Now that is being extended another three months. This Sunday is China's National Day. And in November, President Xi is expected to attend the APEC conference in California . China does not want stories about Mr. Dong's unjust detention in the news during those days. Why doesn't China turn this into a positive by letting Mr. Dong go? He has already served 18 months, during which time he has not been allowed to see or talk to his family. On behalf of all National Press Club members and journalists everywhere, we call on China to end this delayed verdict and send Mr. Dong home. " Founded in 1908, the National Press Club is the world's leading professional organization for journalists. With 3,000 members representing nearly every major journalism organization, the Club is a leading voice for press freedom worldwide. The National Press Club Journalism Institute promotes an engaged, global, citizenry, through an independent and free press. The Institute is the non-profit arm of the National Press Club. Contact: Bill McCarren , 202-662-7534 for the National Press Club View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/national-press-club-statement-on-chinas-delay-of-verdict-in-yuyu-dong-case-301941069.html SOURCE National Press Club FILR PHOTO: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) logo is seen at the International Tourism Trade Fair ITB in Berlin, Germany, March 7, 2018. REUTERS/Fabrizio Bensch/File Photo By Kylie Madry MEXICO CITY (Reuters) -Mexican authorities should postpone planned flight cuts out of the capital airport until the summer 2024 season, which begins in March, an international group that represents major airlines said on Thursday. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) said in a statement to Reuters that it opposed the cuts, but stipulated that if they must happen, they should begin in March, not in January as currently scheduled, to "allow airlines time to adjust schedules." The government announced the flight cuts at the end of August, sparking an outcry from the aviation sector. The measure would limit flights per hour to 43, from 52 at the Mexico City International Airport to reduce airspace saturation and divert more traffic to the newer, state-run Felipe Angeles International Airport (AIFA). The cuts were originally set for November, but were postponed to January after protests from airlines. "The airlines already had tickets sold (for the holiday season)," President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said in a press conference this month. IATA stressed airlines' need to plan ahead. "If a reduction is forced on the industry, this needs to be done in consultation and with sufficient lead time," it said. Lopez Obrador has criticized operations at the busy Mexico City International Airport and said there is "no pretext" for carriers to not move flights to AIFA, which is farther from the capital and provides fewer ground transportation options. Since the cuts were announced, airlines Aeromexico and Viva Aerobus have said they will boost flights out of AIFA. (Reporting by Kylie Madry; Editing by David Alire Garcia, Sarah Morland and Josie Kao) NIAMEY (Reuters) -At least a dozen Niger soldiers were killed following an attack by hundreds of armed insurgents on motorbikes in the country's southwest on Thursday morning, the West African nation's defence ministry said in a statement. Seven soldiers were killed in combat while five others died in an accident while driving to reinforce the unit that had come under attack, the statement said. The attack took place about 190 km (118 miles) from the capital Niamey in Kandadji, near the tri-border zone of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger that has been the epicenter of Islamist insurgencies in the Sahel region in the last few years. Earlier on Thursday, three sources including a senior military officer, who requested anonymity because they are not authorized to speak to the media, told Reuters that at least ten soldiers were killed. Neither the sources nor the defence ministry say which group was responsible. Local affiliates of al Qaeda and Islamic State are active in the region and wage frequent attacks on soldiers and civilians. The defence ministry statement said around a hundred insurgents were killed and their motorbikes and arms were destroyed. It gave no further details. Two security sources said the army responded to the attack with ground troops as well as helicopters, one of which was hit but was able to return to its base. Niger is run by a military junta that seized power in a coup in July, partly out of discontent at the worsening security situation. Neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso have each had two coups in the last three years. However, security analysts say attacks had been falling in Niger under ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, who had tried to engage with Islamists and the rural communities where they are rooted. At least 17 soldiers were killed in another attack in southwestern Niger in mid-August. France said on Sunday it would withdraw its 1,500 troops from Niger before the end of the year, after weeks of pressure from the junta and popular demonstrations against the former colonial ruler, which had forces there to fight the insurgents. On Thursday, several hundred pro-junta supporters gathered again in front of the French military base in Niamey to demand that the troops leave. (Reporting by Moussa Aksar and Boureima Balima; Writing by Nellie Peyton and Bate FelixEditing by Daniel Wallis and Matthew Lewis) (Reuters) -Baltimore police have arrested a suspect in the killing of Pava LaPere, a 26-year-old tech executive, ending a two-day manhunt after investigators tracked him down using evidence from a previous crime, authorities said. Jason Billingsley, 32, of Baltimore, was taken into custody at a train station in Bowie, Maryland, about 30 miles (48 km) south of downtown Baltimore, late on Wednesday, Baltimore acting Police Commissioner Richard Worley said at a news conference on Thursday. "We were able to capture this violent criminal without incident," Worley said. Local and federal authorities began searching for a suspect early on Monday when LaPere was found dead of blunt force trauma in an apartment complex in Baltimore. On Tuesday, police issued an arrest warrant for Billingsley. "We do know that there was no forced entry into her apartment building," Worley said. "We don't know if there are any connections previously to LaPere or Billingsley." Investigators identified Billingsley as a suspect by using evidence from a previous attempted murder, arson and rape incident on Sept. 19. Billingsley was a suspect in that incident after he was identified by witnesses and video surveillance, Worley said. Investigators were able to track Billingsley's whereabouts and home in on him by using his cell phone and financial records, Worley said. The arrest came hours after EcoMap Technologies, the company that LaPere cofounded, held a vigil in her honor at Baltimore's Washington Monument. "Pava's visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity, amplifying ecosystems, and fortifying Baltimore's tech community set her apart as an exceptional leader," EcoMap said in a statement. LaPere was celebrated on social media and in local news reports for her entrepreneurial success, which landed her a spot on the 2023 Forbes' 30 Under 30 list, and for promoting racial diversity and an inclusive workplace culture at EcoMap Technologies, where she served as CEO. (Reporting by Brendan O'Brien in Chicago; Editing by Nick Zieminski and Leslie Adler) FILE PHOTO: A Boeing logo is seen at the 54th International Paris Airshow at Le Bourget Airport near Paris, France, June 18, 2023. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier/File Photo By Kanishka Singh and Valerie Insinna WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Boeing has agreed to pay $8.1 million to resolve allegations it violated U.S. law by failing to comply with contractual obligations in its production of V-22 Osprey aircraft, the U.S. Justice Department said Thursday. The settlement related to allegations Boeing violated the False Claims Act from about 2007 through 2018 because of its failure to meet certain specifications for fabricating composite components for the tiltroter aircraft at its facility in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, the Justice Department said. The Osprey is a military aircraft that takes off like a helicopter and then rotates its propellers to fly like a plane. The government contended Boeing failed to perform monthly testing on autoclaves used to cure composite parts required under the terms of its contract with the U.S. Navy and was not in compliance with additional requirements related to the testing, the department said in a statement. The settlement agreement, which was signed by legal representation for Boeing and the Justice Department, noted that Boeing denied the allegations it was not meeting requirements. A Boeing spokesperson said the company "entered a settlement agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Navy to resolve certain False Claims Act allegations, without admission of liability." (Reporting by Kanishka Singh and Valerie Insinna in Washington; Editing by Chris Reese, Matthew Lewis and Jamie Freed) New President of Supreme Court, Roberto Barroso, gestures after a ceremony, where he was sworn in for the office, in Brasilia, Brazil September 28, 2023. REUTERS/Ueslei Marcelino BRASILIA (Reuters) - Luis Roberto Barroso, a liberal who has favored legalizing abortion and criminalizing homophobia in his 10 years on Brazil's Supreme Court, became chief justice on Thursday as the court's relations chilled with Congress over allegations of judicial overreach. Barroso, 65, an outspoken jurist known for his progressive views, is expected to face backlash from a conservative-led Congress where lawmakers vow to curb the top court's influence on hot-button social issues and human rights debates. Barroso said the Supreme Court will defend human rights, including gay marriage, and the rights of Brazil's Indigenous people to preserve their cultures and parts of their land. But he denied the court was overly active and promised Congressional leaders attending his swearing-in to maintain a dialogue and "live in harmony" with the legislature. Thorny issues that may deepen the rift with Congress during his two-year term as chief justice include decriminalization of abortion up to the 12th week of pregnancy, decriminalization of marijuana possession and holding the "big techs" responsible for content posted on their platforms. Lawmakers say those issues should be decided by elected representatives in Congress rather than the 11-member court, which they accuse of "usurping" their legislative powers. They have proposed changing Brazil's constitution to blunt the court's influence. "Members of the legislature are clearly irritated by the idea that they do not have the last word," said Creomar de Souza, at Dharma Political Risk consultancy in Brasilia. "Their planned constitutional amendments are a clear threat to a judiciary whose profile is now ideologically at odds with that of Congress." Barroso drew criticism recently by stating at an event: "We defeated Bolsonarismo" referring to the court's response to former right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro's attacks on Brazil's democratic institutions and voting system. His remark led conservative lawmakers to file a request to impeach Barroso. As chief justice, Barroso will oversee the trials of hundreds of Bolsonaro supporters who were arrested for taking part in the storming of government buildings on Jan. 8 in an attempt to overturn his electoral defeat. Democratic institutions are under threat worldwide from authoritarian populism, but they had prevailed in Brazil, Barroso said in his speech. "Here democracy was victorious ... the armed forces did not succumb to coup-mongering," he said. (Reporting by Anthony Boadle; Editing by David Gregorio) California Governor Gavin Newsom talks with reporters in the debate "spin room" after the second Republican candidates' debate of the 2024 U.S. presidential campaign at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, U.S. September 27, (Reuters) -Fast-food workers in California will earn a minimum of $20 an hour and have a greater say in setting workplace standards under a new bill signed into law on Thursday by Governor Gavin Newsom. "The future happens here first," Newsom said at an event in Los Angeles, with labor officials and fast-food workers flanking him. The legislation emerged as part of a broader compromise in which fast-food companies agreed to remove a 2024 ballot referendum asking voters to repeal a law aimed at improving wages and working conditions for employees. Labor unions, meanwhile, dropped their push to hold fast-food corporations liable for violations committed by their franchisees. The median fast-food worker in the U.S. earned $13.43 an hour in 2022, while those in California made an average of $16.60 an hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The new minimum, which takes effect in April, equates to an annual salary of $41,600. There are more than 550,000 fast-food workers at 30,000 locations statewide, Newsom said. The majority are the primary providers for their families - contrary to the perception that fast-food workers are teenagers in their first jobs - while 80% are minorities and two-thirds are women, he added. "We're not just about growth," he said. "This state is about inclusion." In addition to the higher wages, the law also establishes a "Fast Food Council" including representatives for both workers and employers that can approve further pay increases and set standards for working conditions, in what labor leaders hailed as a historic move. The overall minimum wage in California is $15.50 an hour, among the highest of any state. The federal minimum wage, which has remained unchanged since 2009, is $7.25 an hour, or $15,080 a year for an employee working 40 hours a week. (Reporting by Joseph Ax; Editing by Josie Kao and Rami Ayyub) FILE PHOTO: A bullet train speeds during its debut near a railway station in Shanghai January 28, 2007. REUTERS/Aly Song (CHINA)/File Photo BEIJING (Reuters) - China launched its first high-speed rail line that will travel across several bays and skim along the coast of the southeastern province of Fujian near the Taiwan Strait, state media reported on Thursday. A bullet train departed from Fuzhou, the capital of east China's Fujian province Thursday morning, setting up the opening of the 277-km (172-mile) Fuzhou-Xiamen-Zhangzhou railway, Xinhua reported. It is China's first cross-sea, rapid line with bullet trains that will travel over bridges across three coastal bays and hit top speeds of 350 km per hour (218 mph), state media said, citing China State Railway Group Co Ltd, the country's railway operator. Travel time between Fuzhou and Xiamen, an economic hub and popular tourist destination, will be under an hour. China Railway Siyuan Survey and Design Group Co Ltd designed the railway project. By 2022, China had 42,000 km of operational high-speed railway, and the length of high-speed rail regularly operating at 350 km per hour neared 3,200 km as of June 2022. China recently announced details of its plan to turn Fujian into a zone for integrated development with Taiwan, which sits opposite the province. China is hoping the link will enhance investment opportunities and make travel easier. A Chinese government official said an integrated multidimensional transportation network has been built in Fujian that "will make it technically possible to construct a high-speed transport passage linking the province with Taiwan," according to state media. Taiwan has dismissed previous Chinese plans to link the island to the rail network, which would require construction of the world's longest undersea tunnel beneath the Taiwan Strait. Asked about the comments, Taiwan's China-policy making Mainland Affairs Council said such infrastructure projects could not be "unilaterally decided", adding that even China's overseas Belt and Road investments needed to be discussed with host countries. China cut off a formal talks mechanism with Taiwan's government in 2016. Separately, earlier this week China unveiled its first commercial suspended monorail line in Wuhan, the capital of Hubei province. The monorail, covering 10.5 km (6.5 miles), is fully automated and only requires human operation in an emergency, China Daily reported. (Reporting by Bernard Orr and Beijing newsroom; Additional reporting by Jeanny Kao and Ben Blanchard in Taipei; Editing by Christian Schmollinger and Miral Fahmy) Ambulances are seen after Dutch police arrested a suspect after a shooting in Rotterdam, Netherlands, September 28, 2023. REUTERS/Piroschka van de Wouw By Piroschka van de Wouw ROTTERDAM (Reuters) -A gunman killed three people in the Dutch city of Rotterdam on Thursday, shooting a local woman and her daughter in their home then storming into a classroom of Rotterdam's university hospital and opening fire on a male teacher. The 32-year-old suspect, a university student, shot dead a 39-year-old woman who lived in his neighbourhood, and shot her 14-year-old daughter. The girl died later in hospital, police said. After setting the woman's house on fire, the gunman went to the Rotterdam Medical Centre university hospital, where he entered a classroom and shot dead a 43-year-old teacher. The man was arrested near the hospital, where he also started a fire. His motive was unknown. "We have been shocked by a horrible incident. Shots were fired in two different places in the city. Many people witnessed it," Rotterdam Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb said. "Emotions in the city are very high. My condolences go out to the victims." Rotterdam's chief prosecutor Hugo Hillenaar said: "The suspect was known to law enforcement and in 2021 he was prosecuted and convicted for animal abuse." Videos posted online showed police instructing students, some wearing white medical gowns, to run outside as heavily armed arrest teams arrived at the scene. One video showed a man in handcuffs wearing what appeared to be combat trousers. Police said there were no indications of a second shooter. (Reporting by Bart Meijer, Charlotte Van Campenhout, Toby Sterling, Anthony Deutsch; Editing by Peter Graff, Hugh Lawson, Alexandra Hudson) YANGON, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Two people were dead and seven others injured in a car crash in eastern Myanmar's Shan state, officer from a local fire brigade team U Kyaw Myo Oo told Xinhua on Thursday. The crash occurred at around 6:00 a.m. local time in Heho town, Shan state, said the officer. A vehicle lost control and rammed into a six-wheeler truck parked on the side of the road, causing the casualties, he said. The driver, who was trapped in the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene, and another victim, a woman, was also pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital, said rescue organization official U Moe Kyaw Thu. By Jan Strupczewski BRUSSELS (Reuters) -European Union governments discussed on Thursday how to revamp EU decision-making and finances to be ready for new members as the Commission said it would propose cash and EU market access for candidates to speed up their membership preparations. The talks among EU affairs ministers of the 27 current member states in the Spanish town of Murcia were to lay the groundwork for an EU summit on Oct 5-6. "Enlargement is one of the major challenges that the Union is facing," Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares, whose country holds the EU's rotating presidency, told a news conference after the meeting. "We have to be prepared for enlargement." Eight countries currently have official EU candidate status - Turkey, Ukraine, Moldova, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia - while two, Georgia and Kosovo, are potential candidate countries. EU Enlargement Commissioner Oliver Varhelyi told the news conference the EU would make internal reforms in parallel with preparations made by candidate countries to meet complex EU entry criteria. To help the candidates reform faster, the European Commission would present in the next two weeks a package of measures that would offer the candidates gradual EU market access as well as additional cash, Varhelyi said. Guiding the talks on the EU's internal preparations is a paper prepared by French and German scholars which calls for a radical overhaul of the EU's decision-making and funding before it can accept more countries by a tentative deadline of 2030. DECISION-MAKING AND MONEY Decision-making is key because the EU now requires unanimity on foreign and security policy, taxes, EU finances, some areas of justice and home affairs and social security and protection. This has already been criticised by some governments and experts as either substantially slowing or even blocking the EU's development, as all decisions in these areas have to be reduced to the lowest common denominator. Varhelyi said after the meeting that despite such challenges the Commission believed accepting new members would not require changes to the EU treaties - a potentially long and complex process that itself requires unanimity. The EU would also have to change its agriculture policy and regional policy and the European budget, if new members were to join, the Franco-German paper said. EU agriculture policy would need to be revamped because the admission of agriculture powerhouse Ukraine would dramatically change current EU direct payments to farmers. A similarly major change would happen to the EU's regional policy, under which poorer EU members receive money to raise their standard of living. The agriculture and regional funds make up two thirds of the EU budget, which totals roughly 1% of the bloc's gross national income a year. The Franco-German paper said the budget, worth around a trillion euros in 2021-27, should be bigger -- a highly contested idea in the EU. The paper, which polarised EU governments when first discussed on Sept. 19, said some countries in the EU should be allowed to form closer cooperation than others, forming four tiers of European integration. The deepest integration would be in the inner circle similar to the euro zone using the single currency and the passport-free Schengen travel zone, with the second tier the EU itself. The third, larger circle would be made up of Associate Members who would participate in the EU's single market for goods and services and adhere to the EU's common principles - along the lines of the proposal pre-announced by Varhelyi. The fourth would be the European Political Community, an outer tier for political cooperation without having to be bound to EU law. (Reporting by Jan StrupczewskiEditing by Ros Russell) Security stands guard at the headquarters of the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 10, 2021. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly By Jonathan Stempel NEW YORK (Reuters) -U.S. prosecutors on Thursday announced criminal insider trading charges against a former Goldman Sachs and Blackstone analyst and two friends over an alleged scheme to trade on nonpublic information about planned mergers and strategic partnerships. Authorities said former analyst Anthony Viggiano, 26, of Baldwin, New York, passed tips on at least eight transactions between 2021 and 2023 to Christopher Salamone, 35, a construction sales representative he has known for two decades and who grew up on the same block. Viggiano also allegedly tipped his college friend Stephen Forlano, 27, who tipped others including his college friend Nathan Bleckley, 26, a U.S. Army captain. Subsequent trades generated more than $580,000 of illegal profit, including $322,000 for Salamone, according to court papers. The Department of Justice said that Salamone, of Long Beach, New York, pleaded guilty to three counts of securities fraud and one count of conspiracy, and is cooperating with its probe. Viggiano faces nine securities fraud and conspiracy charges, while Forlano, of Tampa, Florida, faces four. All four men also face related civil charges from the Securities and Exchange Commission. Bleckley lives in Altus, Oklahoma. The eight transactions included American International Group's sale of part of its life and retirement unit to Blackstone, and private equity firm Advent International's agreement to buy satellite operator Maxar Technologies for about $6.4 billion including debt. Goldman advised Advent. According to the SEC, Viggiano and Salamone invested in four other defense companies as a "smokescreen" when they bought Maxar securities, so they could say they were buying defense stocks "in anticipation of a possible World War III." Viggiano "betrayed the trust of his employers," U.S. Attorney Damian Williams in Manhattan said in a statement. Steven Brill, a lawyer for Viggiano, declined to comment. Forlano's lawyer Michael Bachner said his client denied wrongdoing and would contest the charges vigorously. Bleckley's lawyer Todd Spodek said his client, "a dedicated member of the armed forces, places a high priority on doing what's right. We eagerly anticipate closing this chapter of his life." Salamone's lawyer was not immediately available for comment. Viggiano worked at Blackstone for about seven months, and at Goldman for more than a year before terminating him. In separate statements, Blackstone and Goldman said they were cooperating with authorities and had "zero tolerance" for the alleged misconduct, saying it violated their business standards. Blackstone added that Viggiano had a "non-investment" role at the firm. (Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York; editing by Rami Ayyub and Leslie Adler) Protesters are reflected on a window as they stand next to a concrete platform where authorities had planned to reinstall a statue of Spanish conquistador Juan de Onate but postponed the event after demonstrators occupied the platform, at the Rio Arriba C By Andrew Hay (Reuters) -A man was shot on Thursday in New Mexico on the site where authorities planned to reinstall a statue of a Spanish conquistador who brutally colonized the U.S. state, a witness and police reported, adding a suspect was in custody. The shooting took place around noon outside a civic building in Espanola after a scuffle between protesters and a counter protester wearing a "Make America Great Again" hat, said Mateo Peixinho, an organizer at the rally celebrating a decision by authorities to postpone installation of the statue. New Mexico resident Ryan Martinez, 23, was taken into custody as the suspected shooter, said Rio Arriba County sheriff's office Major Lorenzo Aguilar. A Hopi Native American man from Seattle, Washington, was shot, according to Peixinho. The victim was in stable condition after being airlifted to University of New Mexico hospital, Albuquerque where he was in surgery to have a bullet removed from his chest, said Christina Castro, another organizer at the rally. A similar shooting took place in 2020 when a man demonstrating against the statue of conquistador Juan de Onate in Albuquerque, New Mexico, was shot by a counter protester. Rio Arriba county halted a Thursday ceremony to reinstall a statue of the 16th-century Spanish colonial ruler after protests over the return of the bronze figure removed three years ago during nationwide anti-racism demonstrations. Peixinho said he spoke to Martinez, the alleged shooter, before the incident and he said the man was unhappy authorities had not gone ahead with the reinstallation. Onate is known for the 1599 massacre of a Pueblo tribe, leading a group of Spanish settlers into what is now New Mexico. He is celebrated by some locals for bringing Spanish culture and traditions to a county where most residents today have both Hispanic and indigenous roots. "I don't think anybody should stop us from doing what we're doing," Rio Arriba County Commission Chairman Alex Naranjo, who spearheaded the return of the statue, said after the shooting. The wounded man was in New Mexico for a climate conference and traveled to Espanola to take part in the rally organized by the Red Nation Native rights group, Peixinho said. Video of the incident showed a man pushing past protesters in front of the concrete pedestal where the statue was to be installed before brandishing a handgun, firing a single shot and running away. (Reporting By Andrew Hay; Editing by Josie Kao and Lincoln Feast.) By Rich McKay (Reuters) - Police in Peru have arrested a man suspected of perpetrating a wave of bomb threats against U.S. schools, synagogues, hospitals and airports, triggering evacuations, flight delays and other disruptions in five states this month, authorities said on Thursday. Eddie Manuel Nunez Santos, 33, of Lima, Peru, is accused of making 150 bomb threats in all, some directed at Jewish institutions on the Rosh Hashanah holiday, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York said in a press release. All the threats proved to be hoaxes, it said. A Department of Justice spokesperson said his motive in some cases was to get youths to send him sexually explicit photos, or he would set off bombs. It was not immediately known whether Nunez Santos, who faced extradition to the United States under a federal indictment in New York City, had yet obtained legal representation. The alleged threats, conveyed by email, were directed at supposed targets in New York City as well as in Alaska, Pennsylvania, Connecticut and Arizona, officials said in the press statement. One threat cited as an example by prosecutors read: "I placed multiple bombs in all of the schools from your School Districts. The bombs will blow up in a few hours. I'll gladly smile when your families are crying because of your deaths." That message prompted the evacuation of 1,100 students from 20 schools in Pennsylvania, authorities said. The alleged threats "caused an immediate mobilization by federal and state authorities, diverting critical law enforcement and public safety resources, and caused fear in hundreds of communities across this country," U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said in the statement. The eight-page indictment charges Nunez Santos with two felony counts related to messages he is accused of sending to multiple recipients in New York - making threatening interstate communications and perpetrating a hoax. Each carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison. He also was charged with attempted sexual exploitation of a child, attempted coercion and enticement of a minor and attempted receipt of child pornography. Those charges, for which he could face up to 30 years in prison if convicted, stem from his alleged attempt at persuading a 15-year-old girl in Westchester, New York, to send him sexually explicit photos. The investigation was led by the FBI's New York Joint Terrorism Task Force. Authorities tracked Nunez Santos through his internet and telephone communications, according to the press statement. (Reporting by Rich McKay in Atlanta; Editing by Steve Gorman) FILE PHOTO: Jim Kenney (C) delivers a victory speech after winning the Democratic primary for Mayor of Philadelphia during his election night party at Vie in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on May 19, 2015. REUTERS/Mark Makela/File Photo (Reuters) - Roving groups of young people broke into retail stores in Philadelphia and grabbed merchandise in the early hours on Thursday, as a beefed-up police presence failed to bring a halt to a looting spree that began the previous night. The two-night rampage, which resulted in dozens of arrests on Tuesday and Wednesday, targeted an auto dealership, an Apple electronics store, liquor stores and other retailers. The break-ins prompted all state-run liquor stores in the city to close indefinitely on Wednesday, according to local news reports. The thefts continued on a smaller scale early on Thursday morning, with only six people arrested for eight new incidents of looting, according to the Philadelphia police department. Philadelphia's looting spree comes amid a nationwide surge in organized retail crime, compounding the financial losses that big box U.S. retailers are experiencing as a result of weakening consumer demand, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF) trade group. Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney called the looting "a sickening display of opportunistic criminal activity" in a post on X, formerly Twitter, on Wednesday. The city's interim Police Commissioner John Stanford said in a post on X on Wednesday afternoon that 52 people had been arrested the first night, and two guns recovered. One of the individuals arrested on Tuesday night, Dayjia Blackwell, was "live and broadcasting on social media what stores and what locations to loot," according to the police record of her arrest. Blackwell carried on until two officers caught her at a gas station and brought her in to be charged with causing or risking a catastrophe, criminal mischief, and rioting, among other charges, the record said. Posts circulating on social media appeared to show some of the looters trying to destroy the Apple merchandise they stole after it began emitting alarms, a standard form of anti-theft protection. In the past week, Target (TGT.N) said it would close nine stores in New York City, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco and Oakland, effective Oct. 21, citing rising theft and threats to the security of its employees and customers. (Reporting by Julia Harte; Editing by Bill Berkrot) FILE PHOTO: Former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump reacts as he holds a campaign rally in Erie, Pennsylvania, U.S., July 29, 2023. REUTERS/Lindsay DeDario/File Photo By Jack Queen (Reuters) -Donald Trump will not seek to move a criminal case alleging he conspired to reverse his 2020 presidential election loss in Georgia from state to federal court, his lawyers said on Thursday, a development that could simplify the former U.S. president's path to trial. Trump, the frontrunner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, and 18 others are charged with pressuring Georgia election officials to overturn his 2020 loss in the state to current President Joe Biden, a Democrat. Trump has denied wrongdoing and said the case is part of a political witch hunt. He and his co-defendants have pleaded not guilty. Thursdays filing is significant because Trump was expected to join several co-defendants in seeking to move his case from state to federal court, where he might face a friendlier jury than in Fulton County, Georgia, the Democratic stronghold where the case was filed. Seeking to move the case could have also mired it in hearings and appeals. Prosecutors are pushing to try all 19 defendants together as soon as Oct. 23, though a judge has said he is skeptical that timeline is feasible. Trump had initially indicated he would follow the lead of his onetime chief of staff Mark Meadows, who quickly sought to move his case to federal court but was rebuffed this month when a judge ruled against him. Meadows is appealing that ruling. Trump, Meadows and 17 others were charged in a sprawling indictment in August. Trump has said the criminal case and three others he faces are part of a political plot aimed at preventing him from retaking the White House in next year's election. Trump faces criminal charges in four cases. He is also under indictment in Florida for his handling of classified documents after leaving office, in Washington for his efforts to overturn the 2020 election and in New York over hush money paid to a porn star before the 2016 election. Trump has denied wrongdoing and pleaded not guilty in those cases as well. Trump also faces a civil lawsuit by New York's attorney general alleging he and his family business overstated the value of their assets by billions of dollars to secure better loan and insurance terms. A trial in that case is set to begin on Monday. On Tuesday, a judge ruled that Trump had committed fraud and moved to strip him of control of several marquee properties in his business portfolio. The trial will largely concern how much Trump, his businesses and two adult sons must pay in penalties. The case involves no criminal charges. (Reporting by Jack Queen and Kanishka Singh; Editing by Eric Beech and David Gregorio) By Kanishka Singh WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday announced visa restrictions for individuals who he said were "undermining democracy" in Liberia ahead of the country's elections in October. THE TAKE Blinken in a statement released by the U.S. State Department did not specify how many people were affected or identify them. The move restricts their ability to travel to the U.S. The policy is not aimed at the Liberian people or government, Blinken said. KEY QUOTE The U.S. visa restrictions target people believed to be responsible for "undermining democracy in Liberia, including through manipulation or rigging of the electoral process; use of violence ....; or engagement in any other activity designed to improperly influence the outcome of an election," Blinken said. CONTEXT * The U.S. last year imposed sanctions on three Liberian officials for alleged corruption and misappropriation of state assets. The people included Liberia President George Weah's chief of staff, Nathaniel McGill. Weah fired the officials, who deny wrongdoing. * October elections in Liberia will test the popularity of ex-football star Weah after a chaotic first term. Weah came to power on a wave of hope that he could improve things, despite his lack of political experience. But a series of scandals have set him back. * Opposition leader Joseph Boakai launched his campaign earlier this month. Boakai, 78, came second to Weah in 2017 elections. * Liberia, founded in 1822 as an outpost for returning freed slaves from the Americas, is still recovering from a military coup in 1980 and a 14-year civil war that ended in 2003. * The European Union said last month it will send an observation mission to Liberia ahead of the country's general election in October. (Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by Tom Hogue and Cynthia Osterman) An election official hands a ballot to a voter at a polling station in Ridgeland, Mississippi, U.S., November 27, 2018. REUTERS/Jonathan Bachman/File Photo By Brendan Pierson (Reuters) - A federal appeals court on Thursday agreed to reconsider a ruling by three of its judges that struck down part of Mississippi's state constitution that strips the right to vote from thousands of convicts after they complete their sentences. The decision by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to hold a so-called en banc rehearing of the case before all 16 of its active judges automatically voids, for now, last month's 2-1 panel ruling finding the provision was a "cruel and unusual punishment" that disproportionately affected Black people. "We look forward to re-briefing the issues and arguing before the full Fifth Circuit in January," Jonathan Youngwood, a lawyer for plaintiffs in the class action lawsuit said in an email. "Voting is the cornerstone of our democratic society." "We are pleased for the opportunity to present the case to the full court," a spokesperson for Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch said in an email. The disputed part of the state constitution mandates lifetime disenfranchisement for people convicted of a set of crimes including murder, rape and theft. A group of convicts sued the state in 2018 to regain their right to vote. U.S. Circuit Judge James Dennis wrote for the majority last month that the provision, which he said was adopted in 1890 after the U.S. Civil War to "ensure the political supremacy of the white race," violated the U.S. Constitution's Eighth Amendment, which bars cruel and unusual punishments. The provision, whose list of disqualifying crimes had been amended twice, remained effective in achieving its "racially discriminatory aim," Dennis said. Of the nearly 29,000 Mississippians convicted of disenfranchising offenses who had completed their sentences from 1994 to 2017, 58% were Black, he said. According to the 2020 census, just under 38% of Mississippi residents are Black. Dennis was joined by U.S. Circuit Judge Carolyn Dineen King in reversing a lower-court judge's ruling. Both are appointees of Democratic presidents on the conservative-leaning court. U.S. Circuit Judge Edith Jones, an appointee of former Republican President Ronald Reagan, was also on the panel and had dissented. Twelve of the 16 currently active judges on the court were appointed by Republicans. (Reporting By Brendan Pierson in New York, Editing by Alexia Garamfalvi) FILE PHOTO: A representation of cryptocurrency Ethereum is placed on a PC motherboard in this illustration taken June 16, 2023. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo By Suzanne McGee (Reuters) - Investment manager Valkyrie Funds LLC has begun adding ethereum futures to its existing Bitcoin futures exchange-traded fund, after getting the green light from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the company said on Thursday. The renamed Valkyrie Bitcoin and Ether Strategy ETF will launch on Monday, Valkyrie's chief investment officer Steven McClurg told Reuters. It would be the first time futures based on Ethereum or "ether" contracts would be available to investors via an exchange-traded fund, in a boost for the crypto market. The SEC did not respond to calls seeking comment. Rival asset managers VanEck and ProShares are looking to offer pure ether futures ETFs, in contrast to Valkyrie's hybrid ETF. McClurg said the SEC has told VanEck and ProShares that they can also launch on Monday. VanEck said in a statement on Thursday that the launch of its fund is "upcoming" and declined to comment further. A ProShares spokesman told Reuters that "no one is in a position to launch ahead of us, but did not provide specific details on timing. The SEC's decision to drop long-held objections to ether futures ETFs is a boost for the crypto industry, which has been pushing the agency to expand the types of crypto ETFs they can offer. Several companies have applied to launch spot bitcoin ETFs. Media reports that the SEC was poised to approve ether futures ETFs appears to have been boosting the token's price. Ethereum prices, little changed over the last month, have rallied nearly 6% this week alone, including a 3.3% jump on Thursday. Steve Sosnick, chief strategist at Interactive Brokers, however, said it is unclear whether the run-up was due to early buying in ether futures by Valkyrie, or other traders buying in anticipation of future trading. "Either is possible," said Sosnick. (Reporting by Suzanne McGee; editing by Michelle Price) FILE PHOTO: 'X' logo is seen on the top of the headquarters of the messaging platform X, formerly known as Twitter, in downtown San Francisco, California, U.S., July 30, 2023. REUTERS/Carlos Barria/File Photo By Sheila Dang and Dawn Chmielewski (Reuters) - Social media platform X could turn a profit in early 2024, Chief Executive Officer Linda Yaccarino said on Wednesday, during a wide-ranging interview in which she defended the company's progress under billionaire owner Elon Musk. The appearance at Vox Media's Code conference comes as Yaccarino marked 100 days as CEO of the platform formerly known as Twitter. She has faced questions over her autonomy in the role and the company's ability to court advertisers who have been wary of the rapid changes on the platform and Musk's controversial persona. "The velocity of change and the scope of ambition at X really does not exist anywhere else," Yaccarino said. When asked about third-party estimates that showed X's active app users have fallen to 25th place behind Samsung's clock app, Yaccarino said key metrics around time spent on X were "trending very, very positively," without providing specifics. Yaccarino added that about 1,500 advertisers have returned to the platform in the last 12 weeks, and that 90% of the company's top 100 advertisers have returned. While Yaccarino said the company could be profitable next year, X is also facing a number of lawsuits that allege it has failed to pay rent on its offices and millions of dollars in severance to thousands of employees who were laid off. Since Musk acquired the social media company in October, X has struggled to retain advertisers who feared appearing next to unsuitable content, as researchers and activist groups have reported an increase in hateful posts. Antisemitic content on X has been a focus in recent weeks. Earlier this month, Musk threatened a lawsuit against the Anti-Defamation League, accusing the nonprofit that works to fight antisemitism of primarily causing a 60% decrease in U.S. ad revenue at X. Musk's comments came just days after Yaccarino met with the ADL. Asked on Wednesday about Musk's ADL fight, Yaccarino said it was "disappointing" that the organization did not acknowledge the progress that X has made on safety. Earlier in the interview, she said X introduced new content moderation tools and features to prevent ads from appearing next to certain content, which hadn't existed before the acquisition. Yaccarino also defended Musk's right to speak out on the platform. "Freedom of speech is only successful if someone you disagree with says something you disagree with." (Reporting by Dawn Chmielewski and Sheila Dang; Editing by Kim Coghill and Christian Schmollinger) TOKYO, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Japan's Osaka District Court has ordered the central government and other parties to pay compensation to more than 120 plaintiffs. A total of 128 plaintiffs, previously rejected from a special Minamata disease relief program as sufferers of the disease, were all recognized as Minamata disease patients by the court. The court on Wednesday ruled that 2.75 million yen (18,400 U.S. dollars) must be paid to each of the plaintiffs by the central government, the prefectural government of Kumamoto, and chemical manufacturer Chisso, which caused the pollution. For a twenty-year period starting around 1955, the plaintiffs lived in the southwestern prefectures of Kumamoto and Kagoshima, where the mercury poisoning occurred due to polluted industrial wastewater from a Chisso factory. The plaintiffs, now living in 13 prefectures mainly in the Kinki region in western Japan, had demanded 4.5 million yen (30,000 U.S. dollars) per person, claiming that they were unfairly excluded from the special program. The Japanese daily Mainichi Shimbun in an editorial on Thursday applauded the court's dismissal of the government's claim that the 20-year ruling had expired by saying there were cases in which symptoms developed long afterward. "This is an appropriate decision based on the actual state of damage," the editorial said. The paper added that "the government should move immediately to expand relief for sufferers rather than just wait for all judicial decisions to be delivered." The result is the first for a series of similar lawsuits filed with Tokyo, Niigata and Kumamoto district courts, as well as the Osaka court, and is likely to influence the rulings to be issued later, according to local media. Japan's Ministry of the Environment, in a booklet concerning Minamata disease, said it was "unprecedented in human history in terms of health damage," which left behind "adverse effects across the local communities that lasted for a protracted period of time." "The entire incident constituted a bitter lesson for the government," it noted. ITEM 7.01 Regulation FD Disclosure. As previously disclosed, on September 15, 2008, Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. (LBHI) filed a voluntary petition for relief under Chapter 11 of the United States Code in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York (the Bankruptcy Court). Together with the Chapter 11 cases thereafter filed by certain subsidiaries (collectively with LBHI, the Debtors), the cases are being jointly administered under the case caption In re Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc., et. al., Case Number 08-13555 (the Chapter 11 Proceeding) pursuant to Rule 1015(b) of the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure. On March 6, 2012, the Modified Third Amended Joint Chapter 11 Plan of Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. and its Affiliated Debtors (the Plan) became effective. As contemplated under the Plan, on September 28, 2023, LBHI, the Plan Administrator, filed the Quarterly Financial Report as of June 30, 2023, which includes Balance Sheets, and Cash Flow Estimates (collectively, the Quarterly Financial Report) of LBHI and Debtor-Controlled Entities (collectively, the Company) with the Bankruptcy Court. A copy of the court filing is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1 to this Current Report on Form 8-K. Limitation on Incorporation by Reference In accordance with General Instruction B.2 of Form 8-K, the information in this Item 7.01 shall not be deemed filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act), or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that section, nor shall such information be deemed incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference in such a filing. Cautionary Statements Regarding Financial and Operating Data The Company cautions the reader not to place undue reliance upon the information contained in the Quarterly Financial Report, as it is not prepared for the purpose of providing the basis for an investment decision directly or indirectly relating to the Company or any of its securities. The Quarterly Financial Report is not prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, is not audited or reviewed by independent accountants, will not be subject to audit or review by external auditors at any time in the future, is in a format consistent with applicable bankruptcy laws, and is subject to future adjustments and reconciliations. There can be no assurances that the Quarterly Financial Report is accurate or complete. The Quarterly Financial Report contains a further description of limitations on the information contained therein. The Quarterly Financial Report also contains information which might not be indicative of the Companys financial condition. Results set forth in the Quarterly Financial Report should not be viewed as indicative of future results. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This Current Report on Form 8-K and Exhibit 99.1 hereto may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 with respect to the Companys financial condition, results of operations, and business that is not historical information. Forward-looking statements reflect the Companys current views with respect to future events as well as various estimates, assumptions and comparisons based on available information up to the date of this report, many of which are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including all statements regarding information regarding the intent, belief or current expectation of the Company and members of its management. The words believe, expect, plan, intend, estimate, or anticipate and similar Capt. Eugene T. Williams, U.S. Air Force assistant German Youth Activities officer, throws candy out of the Bon Bon Bomber. (Stars and Stripes) This article first appeared in the Stars and Stripes Europe edition, Oct. 20, 1949. It is republished unedited in its original form. WIESBADEN AIR BASE Children get treat of chocolates, lemon drops; Little Vittles bids kids goodbye from B17 Children reached up and pulled in tiny white parachutes. Attached to the parachutes were chocolate bars, boxes of lemon drops and other delicious things. It was Operation Little Vittles way of saying goodbye. The B17 Bon Bon Bomber from this base passed over displaced persons camps at Ludwigsburg, Heilbronn, Schwabisch-Gmund and the orphanage at Bad Aibling Tuesday [Oct. 18, 1949]. Frankfurt and Darmstadt also were sweetened. The open bomb bay of the "Bon Bon Bomber," shows the German landscape below. It was the last time that chocolate bars, boxes of lemon drops and other delicious things attached to tiny white parachutes were dropped from the sky as "Operation Little Vittles" ended. (Stars and Stripes) First Flight Postponed In all, about 80,000 candy items were dripped. There were also some shmoos containing exactly 30 ounces of candy. There were no kigmies but the shmoos were especially nice. The candy in them was good. Weather postponed the first phaseout flight Monday, so the children at DP camps waited and watched the sky. Tuesday, when the missions could be accomplished, International Refugee Organization officials reported happiness nonpareil. Sirens wailed at Bad Aibling. Police at Heilbronn climbed the roofs and trees to rescue the cargo. The 1,400 Polish children there waved little flags and sang their national anthem. The children waited in the camp compounds. As the first parachutes began to plummet out of the B17, they began to run, jumping fences, leaping streams. Ground winds drove many of the chutes a mile away from the drop area. They went after them. The schokoladen flieger who organized the phase-out of Operation Little Vittles is Capt. Eugene T. Williams, assistant German Youth Activities officer, USAFE. He succeeded 1st Lt. Gale Halvorsen as entrepreneur of the parachute lollipop kingdom. Halvorsen originally founded Little Vittles for the children of Berlin. Valuable Shmoos Williams stood above the open bomb bay of the Bon Bon Bomber and dumped out the candy cargo as successive passes were made over the camps and cities. Last night while I was busy tying chutes, he said, my house was broken into. They took my radio, but left a carton of schmoos. Shmoos are quite valuable, too. Over Frankfurt, 8th Air Force veteran 1st Lt. Garner E. Brown, 60th Tp Carier Sq. pilot of the Bon Bon Bomber, recalled other experiences with B17s. We were almost shot down here, he said. As it turned out we were forced to land in Belgium. This time it is more pleasant. The little white silk chutes performed well. They were made by Wiesbaden airmens wives, Camp Lindsey officers wives, Erbenheim GYA girls, Wiesbaden American and German Girl Scouts, and Wiesbaden GYA girls. New Prague, Minn., sponsored the drops on the DP camps, and Long Beach, Calif., sent Darmstadt its good wishes. Portland, Ore., brought cheer to Frankfurt. This week, weather permitting, Little Vittles will make drops at Kassel, sponsored by Milwaukee; at Bremen, sponsored by Wichita; Hanover, sponsored by Cleveland, and Hamburg by the Hillside, N.J., Little Vittles Club. Looking for Stars and Stripes historic coverage? Subscribe to Stars and Stripes historic newspaper archive! We have digitized our 1948-1999 European and Pacific editions, as well as several of our WWII editions and made them available online through https://starsandstripes.newspaperarchive.com/ (Stars and stripes) Help us name the crew of the last Bon Bon Bomber flight! No identifying information survived and we would love to be able to attach a name to each of the faces. We have tentatively identified Capt. Eugene T. Williams, U.S. Air Force assistant German Youth Activities officer, to be third from left. We have no idea who the others are but assume that they all participated in some form in the last so-called Candy Bomber flight on Oct. 18, 1949, flying out of Wiesbaden Air Base. 8th Air Force veteran 1st Lt. Garner E. Brown, of the 60th Troop Carrier Squadron and named in the article as the pilot is likely pictured. Do you know him? Can you identify any of the others? Let Stars and Stripes archive staff know at information@stripes.com The exhibit Dachshund and the Nobility describes the relationship the German dog breed has shared with royal families throughout the years. Visitors to the museum in Regensburg, Germany, will want to have a phone handy for translations, as displays are in German. (Michael Slavin/Stars and Stripes) I have been blessed in my travels to see some of the most significant places in the world, such as the Egyptian pyramids and the Acropolis in Athens. But there are other astounding pyramids and citadels. The Dackelmuseum, or dachshund museum, in the southeastern German city of Regensburg, is truly one of a kind. Sure, its not an ancient wonder or a place of breathtaking beauty. But there is a sense of awe that comes from realizing that if a person devoted the next 50 years of their life solely to putting together a collection of dachshund memorabilia, they still wouldnt even scratch the surface of this museums collection. The dachshund's history and relationship with Germany and Bavaria are shown across several displays at the Dackelmuseum, or dachshund museum. in the southeastern German city of Regensburg. (Michael Slavin/Stars and Stripes) Nor can I fathom what would possess someone to do such a thing. However, much to my benefit, someone did. Two someones, actually: Seppi Kueblbeck and Oliver Storz. The museum is touted as the only one of its kind in the world. And much like the mighty dachshund, it comes in a fun-sized package. It isnt much bigger than the average Regensburg restaurant, but its packed to the brim with all things dachshund. Kueblbeck and Storz spent 30-plus years curating this collection of more than 30,000 pieces of memorabilia related to one beloved breed of pooch. The dachshund museum in Regensburg, Germany, contains more than 30,000 pieces of memorabilia related to the beloved dog breed. (Michael Slavin/Stars and Stripes) Regensburg is actually not the original home of the museum, though. It was founded in Passau, a Danube River town bordering Austria. But Kueblbeck and Storz moved their dog-and-no-pony show out of Passau about six months ago because of a bone to pick with the city in a classic case of bureaucrats running amok. Since 2018, the dachshund museum there had outdoor seating that included an umbrella, which ran afoul of a local ordinance. The stink raised by the city administration with its umbrella ban drove Kueblbeck to pack up and leave, he told the Sueddeutsche Zeitung newspaper. Displays in the dachshund museum are set up in a figure-eight pattern. It is operated by two dachshund enthusiasts who moved the museum from Passau, Germany, to Regensburg six months ago. (Michael Slavin/Stars and Stripes) He saw the citys actions as a snub of an attraction that had garnered a lot of attention for Passau, he told the paper. Being sent off was the worst pain of my life, he said. The new building has a figure-eight layout with 23 exhibits, one of which shows pictures of celebrities with dachshunds. Never would I have pegged Marlon Brando for a wiener dog guy, but there he was. The dachshund museum display titled Like in Heaven showcases several porcelain figures of the German dog breed. A gift shop at the front of the museum offers a huge assortment of dachshund paraphernalia for sale. (Michael Slavin/Stars and Stripes) The gift shop is almost as packed as the museum. The owners spared no expense putting together a selection that would please even the most discerning dachshund lover. Having walked through the museum in less than 15 minutes, I would venture to say it might not merit a trip to Regensburg in and of itself. But for people already there, its whimsy makes it worth checking out. Its a slice of Germanys history and culture that traditional museums, no matter how worthwhile, have overlooked. In addition, it is near many of the citys other attractions, like the Historische Wuerstkuchl, one of the worlds oldest continuously open restaurants, or the House of Bavarian History just downriver. Dackelmuseum Address: Weisse-Hahnen-Gasse 3-5, Regensburg, Germany Prices: Adults, 6 euros; students, 4 euros; children up to 12, free Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. except on Christmas Eve and New Years Eve Information: +49 941 307717 73, www.dackelmuseum.de China Eastern Airlines Corp. aircraft at the Hongqiao International Airport in Shanghai, China, on Monday, Sept. 5, 2022. (Qilai Shen/Bloomberg) China Eastern Airlines Corp. ordered 100 C919 single-aisle planes from Commercial Aircraft Corp of China Ltd., dealing a potential blow to Boeing Co., which hasnt had a large order from Chinese carriers in years. The order is worth $9.9 billion at list prices, but a significant discount has been applied, Shanghai-based China Eastern said in a statement Thursday. Airlines typically get reductions from the listed prices when making bulk orders. The planes will be delivered from 2024 to 2031. Commercial Aircraft Corp of China, or Comac, produces the C919, seen as a possible rival to best-selling jets from Airbus SE and Boeing. Thursdays deal elevates the Chinese-made aircraft in terms of competitiveness, given it only made its first commercial flight in May, also operated by China Eastern. China Eastern already operates two C919s, part of a previous order for five of the planes. Comac, which also makes the smaller regional ARJ21 jet, has received more than 1,000 orders in total for the C919, primarily from China. The order was determined according to the needs of the company in respect of fleet structure, development strategy and route network, as well as the supply capacity of Comac, China Eastern said. The carrier will finance the purchase with its own funds, bank loans and proceeds from bond issues and other financing, it said. Five C919 aircraft will be delivered in 2024 and then 10 a year from 2025 to 2027, rising to 15 in the next three years and 20 in 2031, China Eastern said. The airline operates 782 aircraft and last year ordered 100 Airbus short-haul jets in a deal it said was worth $12.8 billion, prior to discounts. That was part of a wider $37 billion deal from Chinese airlines for almost 300 Airbus planes. Meanwhile, Boeings orders have dried up in China, its most important export market, partly due to simmering tensions between Washington and Beijing. China also took longer than other places to lift a ban on the U.S. manufacturers 737 Max, which was grounded in the wake of crashes in 2018 and 2019. While China declared the Max airworthy again in December 2021, it took more than a year for the countrys airlines to start using the model. China Southern Airlines Co. operated the first passenger flight in about four years in January. In its latest commercial market outlook, Boeing said China will account for a fifth of the worlds new aircraft deliveries over the next 20 years, amounting to 8,560 planes. Of those, 6,470 will be narrowbodies, such as the Max, it said. Marine Sgt. Stephen Barbour, a radio operator with the 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, speaks to fellow enlisted leaders about suicide prevention at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes) CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa About 100 hand-picked sergeants and staff sergeants from across the III Marine Expeditionary Force gathered Wednesday on this Marine Corps base to talk suicide prevention. The III MEF Professional Leaders Seminar the first of its kind on Okinawa brought junior enlisted leaders together for guest speakers, case studies, resiliency training and panel discussions. The Marine Corps Association, which sponsored the event, has organized similar conferences at other bases. The purpose is to keep the conversation going and to get Marine leaders to look at the problem from a different perspective, Marta Sullivan, association director of engagement and outreach, said during the event. Suicide is a major concern in the U.S. military, where 332 active-duty service members took their own lives in 2022, up from 328 the previous year, according to the Defense Suicide Prevention Office. Of the 63 Marines who died by suicide in 2022, seven were from III MEF, its senior enlisted leader, Sgt. Maj. Joy Kitashima, said during the conference. The 94 active-duty suicides between January and April of this year are the most in the first quarter since 92 in 2019, according to the prevention office. The first quarter of 2022 saw 75 military suicides. Enlisted leaders from across the III Marine Expeditionary Force discuss ways to prevent suicide during a seminar at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes) After breakfast speeches from Kitashima and retired Lt. Gen. Charles Chiarotti a former deputy commandant and association president and CEO, Marines in small groups heard the story of a high-performing gunnery sergeant from the perspective of his leadership, peers, friends and family. The Marines were asked to identify red flags after they learned the gunnery sergeant had been found dead. Hes finding every reason to dive himself into his own work, so he doesnt see the problems in his own life, said Sgt. Stephen Barbour, a radio operator with the 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company. That is an extremely unhealthy habit. Staff Sgt. Kate Mazzone, a communications technician with Marine Air Control Squadron 4, said a Marine in crisis came to her recently, afraid to seek counseling or therapy out of fear of being labeled. She found success by being both approachable and empathetic. Its important for these conversations to be had and that we address the root of the problem, said Mazzone, who hoped the conference would contribute to eroding the stigma of reporting or asking for help. Just before lunch, the Marines learned how to avoid common thinking traps that can trigger a mental health crisis, like jumping to conclusions about a partner or spouse if they are unavailable by phone or assuming a distracted child is angry during a video chat. Their leaders hope the Marines go back to their units and support their commands by advising or speaking on the topic, Kitashima said. We want them to ask, how can I get this individual, who may or may not be struggling, to see that whatever theyre going through, it will get better? she said. A person receives a COVID-19 booster shot at Ramstein Air Base in Germany in 2022. Updated vaccines against the illness are expected to arrive at U.S. military bases in Europe sometime next month. (Jared Lovett/U.S. Air Force) KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany U.S. bases overseas are due to receive the new COVID-19 vaccine sometime next month, military health officials said. The vaccine is already available at Tricare network retail pharmacies in the United States. Shipment of the vaccine to U.S. military medical clinics and hospitals from the Defense Departments vendor is expected to begin at the end of this week, said Peter Graves, a spokesman for the Defense Health Agency. Vaccines will go out to installations based on when orders were received, he said. No shortages are anticipated, Graves said. In Europe, the new vaccine will be made available to all those eligible who want it, said Kirk Frady, spokesman for Medical Readiness Command, Europe. In general, only one dose of the reformulated vaccine is needed, whether as a booster or a first-time jab. For most people 5 and up, this is all thats required to be up-to-date with your COVID vaccine, Graves said. The one-dose recommendation comes from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which issued guidelines following the Food and Drug Administrations approval earlier this month of the latest mRNA vaccines developed by Pfizer and Moderna. Its a monovalent vaccine, meaning its designed to protect against only one strain of coronavirus, in this case XBB.1.5, a subvariant of the omicron strain. None of the variants circulating now are exact matches to the vaccine, but theyre all closely related to XBB.1.5, according to Andy Pekosz, a professor of molecular microbiology and immunology at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland. Studies so far show the new vaccine is effective against the variants currently causing the majority of COVID-19 cases in the United States, he wrote in a Q&A on the universitys website. Last years bivalent vaccine, which is no longer available in the United States, targeted the original COVID-19 virus and two omicron variants. The FDA also no longer calls the shot a booster for those already vaccinated, Pekosz said. The change in wording reflects that weve begun treating COVID like we treat influenza, with annual vaccination, he said. Besides boosting existing immunity from previous shots, the vaccine builds a new immune response to variants that are circulating, he said. More than 40,000 locations in the United States and U.S. territories are in the Tricare network, including national and grocery chains and independent pharmacies. Health officials at Ramstein Air Base said this week that the vaccine has been ordered and that the arrival time will depend on the shipping schedule and availability. The public will be notified when its available, a base spokeswoman said this week. Though one dose is recommended for most people, unvaccinated children ages 6 months to 4 years should receive two or three doses, depending on the manufacturer, according to CDC guidelines. Those with compromised immune systems may receive more than one dose of the updated shot whether they were previously vaccinated or not. Experts recommend that everyone who is eligible get the updated vaccine by mid-October, ahead of cooler weather and more indoor gatherings, Pekosz said. Those at higher risk of severe illness should get vaccinated as soon as possible, he said. Photo taken on Sept. 21, 2023 shows police patrol in central Stockholm, Sweden. A woman who died in an explosion in Uppsala, west of Stockholm, in the early hours of Thursday became the 12th victim of gang violence fatality in Sweden since the beginning of September, making it the country's deadliest month in four years. (Xinhua/He Miao) STOCKHOLM, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- A woman who died in an explosion in Uppsala, west of Stockholm, in the early hours of Thursday became the 12th victim of gang violence fatality in Sweden since the beginning of September, making it the country's deadliest month in four years. The woman, who was in her mid-20s, was killed by an explosive device believed to have been intended to harm or intimidate a known gang member living in the same neighborhood of Uppsala, Swedish Television (SVT) reported. "The violence is inhumane, incomprehensible and limitless," SVT quoted Catarina Bowall, commanding officer at the Uppsala police, as saying at a press conference. Late on Wednesday, two young men were killed in separate shootings in two suburbs of Stockholm. The police believe that both incidents are linked to criminal gangs. Although most of the 42 people shot to death so far this year were members of criminal gangs, citizens are becoming increasingly worried as at least seven of those killed in the last year are believed to have become collateral victims, SVT reported. Since last October, a further 11 people with no known or suspected ties to criminal gangs have been injured in shootings, SVT reported. "It's bad enough that the gangs shoot and kill each other, but when completely innocent people end up in the line of fire, it's absolutely horrific," said Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson at a press conference following a shooting at a pub on Sept. 21. Ordinary citizens are also getting fed up with the increasingly indiscriminate violence. "I've lived here for 20 years, but in recent years it has become messy," a witness to the pub shooting in Sandviken, some 190 kilometers northwest of Stockholm, told Dagens Nyheter newspaper. Following another recent fatal shooting in a suburb of Stockholm, a witness told Aftonbladet newspaper that she was living in fear. "This is awful. There have been so many reports of shootings in the area and I'm now afraid to walk my dog," she said. In recent decades, Sweden has witnessed an increase in gun violence. In a study of 23 European countries released in 2021, the Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention found that Sweden had moved from the lowest number of shootings to the highest during the years 2000 to 2019. The trend has since continued and ahead of last year's election, a poll of 25,000 individuals revealed that Swedish people ranked crime as the most important issue. This sentiment had not been seen since the late 1970s, SVT reported. There have been more than 130 bombings in Sweden since January and in the first six months this year alone, there were more bombings than last year's total of 90. On Wednesday, Sweden's government held its second crisis meeting in nine days about the gang violence, which the national police commissioner has described as "unprecedented." "The situation is very serious. Bombings are extraordinarily bad as many innocent people are affected," Minister for Justice Gunnar Strommer told SVT following the meeting. Among the measures, funding for the judicial system is being increased considerably and a new national explosives registry will be established. Harder penalties and harsher sentences for gun crimes and the illegal possession of explosives will soon apply, and police and social services would be able to exchange information more easily. Criminal gangs are, however, a headache not just for Sweden's judicial system, as they are also expanding their activities abroad, such as Costa del Sol in southern Spain, where nearly a thousand Swedish criminals have relocated, a police spokesperson told SVT in July. Authorities in Sweden's western neighbor Norway, where only four gun killings occurred last year, are getting increasingly worried after noticing that Swedish criminal gangs are expanding their operations there. Photo taken on Sept. 24, 2023 shows police patrol in central Stockholm, Sweden. A woman who died in an explosion in Uppsala, west of Stockholm, in the early hours of Thursday became the 12th victim of gang violence fatality in Sweden since the beginning of September, making it the country's deadliest month in four years. (Xinhua/He Miao) Photo taken on Sept. 24, 2023 shows police patrol in central Stockholm, Sweden. A woman who died in an explosion in Uppsala, west of Stockholm, in the early hours of Thursday became the 12th victim of gang violence fatality in Sweden since the beginning of September, making it the country's deadliest month in four years. (Xinhua/He Miao) President Joe Biden speaks about his administrations economic agenda at Prince Georges Community College, Center for the Performing Arts, Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, in Largo, Md. (Alex Brandon/AP) WASHINGTON House Republicans plan to have three witnesses testify Thursday at their first hearing on the impeachment investigation of President Joe Biden, which conservative lawmakers say will be used to outline the basis for their high-profile probe. The House Committee on Oversight and Accountability announcement said the hearing would examine the value of an impeachment inquiry and outline information regarding Biden. Democrats dismiss the inquiry as baseless. Committee Chairman James R. Comer, R-Ky., said in an interview Tuesday that the committee will go over all the evidence theyve accumulated so far. That discussion will include information he released that the committee says shows the presidents son, Hunter Biden, receiving payments that originated from Chinese nationals information Speaker Kevin McCarthy mentioned at a press conference Tuesday. Comer, in announcing the hearing, said the panel will hear from experts about crimes the Bidens may have committed. The committee announced that witnesses will be Bruce Dubinsky, a forensic accountant; Eileen OConnor, a former assistant attorney general at the Justice Departments Tax Division; and Jonathan Turley, a legal scholar who has testified in previous impeachment inquiries. Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland, who is the top Democrat on the panel, says Republicans, despite all their investigating, have turned up zero evidence of wrongdoing against President Biden. They havent laid a glove on him. So if they go forward with this ridiculous impeachment, we will make them demonstrate what are the factual building blocks of it, Raskin said in an MSNBC interview this month. I think a lot of them, including Marjorie Taylor Greene and Matt Gaetz, would love to rush this thing to the floor so they can all make a bunch of phony speeches. But theres no evidence there, Raskin said. Comer also said hes planning to hold another hearing in the middle of October. Some Republican messaging about the impeachment inquiry has included misleading statements and currently unproven allegations about President Biden. For example, a Republican memorandum states that President Bidens family is the vehicle to receive bribery payments. No definitive evidence has been made public yet that President Biden took a bribe. House Republicans have also pointed to an unclassified FBI record that they say describes an alleged scheme involving then-Vice President Biden and a foreign national relating to the exchange of money for policy decisions. But the FBI has said that the type of form contains raw, unverified information from confidential human sources. Those records merely document whats been told to the FBI and do not reflect the conclusion of investigators, the agency has said. But the impeachment probe provides Republicans with a vehicle to further investigate allegations and potentially find new information, along with giving a platform to air accusations. GOP lawmakers have been pulling threads on Hunter Bidens past business dealings and probing whether the activities compromised U.S. national security or influenced President Bidens impartiality. Other accusations form the basis for the Republican-led probe, including arguments that the presidents son received lenient treatment from the Justice Department. House Ways and Means Chairman Jason Smith, R-Mo., said at a press conference on Wednesday that he has serious concerns about whether President Biden may be compromised by his sons foreign business dealings. He said the committee voted in a closed-door meeting to release additional materials provided to the panel by two IRS investigators who worked on a criminal investigation of Hunter Biden and told lawmakers that the probe was handled in a way that benefited Hunter Biden. I also have serious concerns about whether the president may be using his administration to protect himself and his family from scrutiny, Smith said. The American people, they have a right to know their elected representatives are not abusing public office to enrich themselves or their families. Democrats have cast the accusations against the Biden administration as an attempt to provide political cover for Donald Trump, the twice-impeached former president who is facing four different criminal cases but remains the front-runner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. The White House called the hearing a distraction from the turmoil roiling the House GOP over a potential government shutdown. Ian Sams, White House spokesman for oversight and investigations, issued a statement last week that said proposed cuts from House Republicans were hurtling the nation toward a government shutdown. Staging a political stunt hearing in the waning days before they may shut down the government reveals their true priorities: to them, baseless personal attacks on President Biden are more important than preventing a government shutdown and the pain it would inflict on American families, Sams said. Comer, in an interview Tuesday, indicated that staff members working on the Biden investigation would continue to work even if the government shuts down. Theyve done a great job. They want to keep working. They said theyre going to keep working, Im going to keep working. Im going to keep reading people send us tips and stuff all the time, Comer said. And were not going to stop. The committee members are not going to stop, the staffs not going to stop. Were going to keep going. 2023 CQ-Roll Call, Inc., All Rights Reserved. Visit cqrollcall.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Witnesses appearing Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, before the House Armed Services Committee testifying on the strategic basing process for the U.S. Space Command are from left: Space Forces Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman; Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall III; and Space Command Commander Gen. James Dickinson. (Carlos Bongioanni/Stars and Stripes) Military leaders on Thursday defended President Joe Bidens decision to nix U.S. Space Commands planned move from Colorado to Alabama as a necessary and nonpolitical decision to avoid operational problems. Army Gen. James Dickinson, who has led Space Command since August 2020, told members of the House Armed Services Committee that moving the Pentagons newest combatant command from Peterson Space Force Base, Colo., risked losing hundreds of its critical civilian workers. But lawmakers primarily Republicans from Alabama argued Bidens July 31 decision to cancel the commands planned move to Redstone Arsenal, Ala., was an unprecedented political maneuver by a Democratic president who is campaigning for a second term. The Biden administration has chosen to play politics with our national security after a long and competitive national process [in which] Huntsville, Alabama was selected as the best location to host the United States Space Command, said Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Ala., chairman of the committee. The Biden administration has attempted to circumvent the results and place SPACECOMs permanent headquarters in Colorado Springs in the name of readiness. Let me be clear, this is not and has never been about readiness. House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers, R-Ala., addresses witnesses testifying regarding the irregularity in the strategic basing process for the U.S. Space Command on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. (Carlos Bongioanni/Stars and Stripes) Rogers called for the hearing in the summer after Bidens announcement that he had personally chosen to maintain SPACECOM at Peterson SFB, taking the decision away from Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall, who had spent some two years examining the issue. Former President Donald Trump in July 2021 announced Space Command, which Trump had reestablished as a combatant command in 2019 after it had been folded into another command for two decades would be permanently headquartered at Redstone following a review of several potential headquarters locations, including Peterson. Lawmakers from Colorado, which has long been the home of the bulk of the militarys space operations, balked at Trumps decision, accusing him of awarding Alabama for supporting him in the 2020 election, which he lost. Now Biden faces similar allegations of political gamesmanship over his decision. Alabama lawmakers accused him of seeking 2024 election votes in Colorado or punishing Alabama over its near-total abortion ban and the blocking of procedural votes to confirm top military officers imposed by Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala. Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall III testifies Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, before the House Armed Services Committee regarding the irregularity in the strategic basing process for the U.S. Space Command. (Carlos Bongioanni/Stars and Stripes) Kendall, who testified Thursday alongside Dickinson and Space Force Gen. Chance Saltzman, the chief of space operations, told lawmakers Alabamas abortion policy was never discussed in myriad conversations about the decision. Kendall said he had endorsed moving Space Command from Colorado to Redstone Arsenal, but he was overruled by Biden. Any basing decision involves a balancing of different and often competing factors, he said. In my judgment, the two most important factors in this basing action ultimately proved to be, one, the cost to the taxpayer of constructing and operating a new permanent headquarters facility and, two, the operational risks associated with any transition from the provisional headquarters in Colorado to another location. President Biden exercised his authority as commander in chief and chief executive to make the final decision to locate the permanent headquarters of U.S. Space Command in Colorado. I fully support the presidents decision. Kendall told committee members that he believed cost savings tilted the scales toward his Redstone recommendation, outweighing readiness concerns a move could cause. The military would save an estimated $426 million by building a new, state-of-the-art 464,000 square foot facility to house SPACECOMs 1,450-person workforce at Redstone over Peterson. The cost of living in the Huntsville region is also cheaper than in Colorado Springs, he said. Space Command Commander Gen. James Dickinson testifies Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, before the House Armed Services Committee regarding the irregularity in the strategic basing process for the U.S. Space Command. (Carlos Bongioanni/Stars and Stripes) Dickinson, however, said internal studies showed some 88% of his civilian workforce would not leave Colorado Springs for Alabama. The general warned the loss of that group of experts could prove problematic in an increasingly hostile space operations theater, where the United States is competing with China and Russia. We have seen a rapid growth in capability and capacity in particular by China, Dickinson said. In terms of the workforce, I cant emphasize enough how important it is that we have a trained and ready workforce and moving that would create that operational risk that we are talking about today, in that you would take a trained and ready force, and then have to move them to another geographic location, which would create risk. Rep. Doug Lamborn, R-Colo., labeled Bidens decision as an inevitable conclusion to keep Space Command in Colorado. Colorado Springs takes a backseat to no one, he said. There is not some conspiracy to overturn this merit-based approach. Lamborn, who represents the Colorado Springs area, was among the states delegation who objected to Trumps 2021 decision on his way out of the White House. Rep. Doug Lamborn, R-Colo., addresses witnesses during a House Armed Services Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, regarding the irregularity in the strategic basing process for the U.S. Space Command () The Colorado delegation asked the Government Accountability Agency and Defense Department inspector general to probe Alabamas Space Command victory. However, the watchdogs found Redstone scored higher than Peterson in criteria outlined by the Air Force and Pentagon in its search for a permanent base. Rogers said he will initiate watchdog reviews of Bidens basing decision. The committee chairman said he will ask the DOD IG to probe the decision to leave Space Command in Colorado. He also warned he would work to block funding for a permanent Space Command headquarters building in Colorado, and he would work to ensure funding for construction of a new headquarters at Redstone was included in future appropriations bills. The one thing that Gen. Dickinson had indicated in his concerns is that some of the civilians may not want to move, Rogers said. As we have made clear here, he can use contractors to fill that void. Theres not going to be impact to operational readiness. Whether decisions were made for political reasons, lawmakers appeared to agree the process for selecting a permanent home for Space Command was faulty. Rep. Adam Smith of Washington, the top Democrat on the committee, said he didnt believe politics was a factor in either Trumps or Bidens decision on the headquarters. But he described the back-and-forth decision process as a bollixed up and terrible procedure. Rep. Adam Scott, R-Ga., said he did not know if politics were at play, but the process certainly appeared political to Americans. He worried the Space Command decisions could set a precedent where Republican and Democrat presidents in the future routinely make headquartering decisions for political reasons. If we go down that path, and thats the way that the decisions are going to be made, then when you have a Republican president, the missions are going to be put in red states and when you have a Democratic president the missions are going to be put in blue states, Scott warned. A political agenda is going to end up destroying the effectiveness of our DOD and our national security. Workers set up surveillance equipment outside the U.S. Capitol in 2021. (Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post) A key government privacy panel is urging strict new limits on a controversial surveillance tool due to expire later this year though in a sign of how contentious the issue has become, the panel split 3-2 on the issue, with the two dissenting members of the group calling the recommendations deeply flawed. The 19 recommendations urged by a majority of the panel, as well as the internal disagreement, only underscore the difficulties the FBI and other supporters of the Section 702 program are facing in getting the law reauthorized. Critics call Section 702 a Constitution-violating, privacy-invading overreaction to the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Supporters call the program a lifesaving and essential part of the governments electronic security blanket against terrorism and espionage. Section 702 was last reauthorized in 2018 and is due to expire at the end of the year. The law allows the government to target the digital communications typically emails and phone calls of people who are neither U.S. citizens nor living legally in the United States. It is supposed to protect the country by looking for spies, terrorists, hackers and evidence of crimes. Officials say that the program does not target Americans but does collect incidental information about them, and that the government agencies who keep that data are not capable of measuring how much information is gathered about citizens and legal residents of this country. In the past year, the FBI has come under intensifying criticism for misuses of the data, in part because it can be searched without a court order. While intelligence officials insist Section 702 is not a bulk data collection program, court rulings declassified earlier this year show the FBI misused the system more than 278,000 times just in 2020 and early 2021. Those errors included searches for information about crime victims, people arrested at Black Lives Matters protests and, in one case, 19,000 donors to a congressional candidate. FBI officials say new procedures have been put in place to prevent similar abuses. But a report Thursday by three out of the five members of the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, or PCLOB, calls for additional changes. It says that a renewal of the program should require FBI agents to get approval from the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court to review Section 702 data about U.S. citizens and legal residents. A judge from the court would have to agree such a search is reasonably likely to retrieve foreign intelligence or evidence of a crime. Intelligence officials have argued that such a condition, often referred to as a warrant requirement, would be so onerous and time-consuming as to make the program much less effective. The White House National Security Council issued a statement that said the proposal was operationally unworkable and would blind us to information already in our holdings that, often, must be acted upon in time-sensitive ways in order to prevent lethal plotting on U.S. soil, the recruitment of spies by hostile actors, the hacking of U.S. companies, and more. If enacted, that recommendation would cause detrimental effects to U.S. national security, the statement said. Current and former intelligence officials often refer to Section 702 as a crown jewel in the gathering of signals intelligence, critical to tracking spying by foreign governments and hackers activities in cyberspace, and to seeing how American people and companies are targeted by such groups. U.S. officials say the programs usefulness has grown over the years, and it now accounts for nearly 60 percent of the items in the presidents daily intelligence briefing. A different advisory group, the Presidents Intelligence Advisory Board, recommended earlier this year that Congress tighten the rules on Section 702 but not impose a warrant requirement, which that panel viewed as too onerous. The new report by three members of the privacy board said the court approval requirement is necessary to keep the program alive. Section 702 remains highly valuable to protect national security, the report says, but it also creates serious privacy and civil liberties risks. The report calls for individualized and particularized judicial review for any searches using query terms related to U.S. citizens and lawful residents. At the same time, however, the recommendation said there should be two exceptions to that requirement one for fast-moving emergencies, and another for instances in which the government is seeking data about a potential American victim and has the victims consent to conduct such a search. The politics of Section 702 and surveillance in general are not clear-cut. Moderates in each party often support such programs, while the far left and the far right often oppose them. In the House, a number of members of Congress closely aligned with former president Donald Trump have vowed to end or significantly scale back Section 702; they have urged more-liberal Democrats to join them in those efforts. The three members of the PCLOB who urge court approval for searches of U.S. citizens and lawful residents are Democrats, while the two who oppose that recommendation are Republicans. The three-member majority of the panel also made 18 other recommendations to alter Section 702, but the call for court approval of searches is the most significant. In a separate statement, the two dissenting members said the failure to reauthorize the program would cause grave damage to the security of our country, and quite likely, lead to the loss of American lives. Instead of creating a warrant requirement, they argued, the government should reform the structure and culture of the FBI. With more advocates and political figures weighing in with suggested alterations to the program, it appears increasingly likely that if Section 702 is reauthorized, it will be with significant changes. But in an era of often paralyzing brinkmanship on Capitol Hill, its unclear how far-reaching any changes to the law might be, or if there is enough consensus among the moderate wings of each party to muster support to pass anything. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., speaks at a security forum hosted by the Center for European Policy Analysis on Sept. 27, 2023. McConnell said that in supporting Ukraine, the U.S. is reinvigorating its industrial base and preventing Russia from moving into NATO territory. (Twitter/Center for European Policy Analysis ) Former President Donald Trump is to blame for growing Republican opposition to arming Ukraine, according to the top Senate Republican, who also said Americans are being misled about the nature of Russias war. Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the Senate minority leader, said Wednesday that in supporting Ukraine, the U.S. is lining up against all its chief adversaries, reinvigorating its industrial base and preventing an expansionist Russia from moving into NATO territory. I think its an easy call (to support Ukraine), McConnell said during a forum hosted by the Center for European Policy Analysis. But as the war in Ukraine drags on, an influential segment of the Republican Party has become increasingly vocal about ending American aid to Kyiv. The reason Republican support is declining is the opposition of the former president, McConnell said. Thats the bad news. ... I think the American people are being to some extent misled. I dont think they understand the facts. Pallets of ammunition destined for Ukraine are loaded onto an 86th Airlift Wing C-130J Super Hercules at Ramstein Air Base in Germany in August 2022. Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said Sept. 27, 2023, that arming Ukraine in its war against Russia is an "easy call." (Emma Quirk/U.S. Air Force) Still, McConnell said the good news is that leadership in key congressional panels, such as the armed services and foreign relations committees, remains staunchly behind Ukraine. While critics of U.S. policy toward Ukraine have characterized American aid as something of a blank check, McConnell said the support adds up to a fraction of American gross domestic product. Since the start of the war on Feb. 24, 2022, the U.S. has given about $44 billion in military assistance to Ukraine, about 5% of the Defense Departments annual budget. Meanwhile, Russia has suffered as many as 120,000 casualties, U.S. officials have said. And were not losing any American military personnel, McConnell said. U.S. M1A1 Abrams tanks used for training Ukrainian troops await transport to Grafenwoehr, Germany, in May 2023. Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said Sept. 27, 2023, that former President Donald Trump is largely at fault for the decline in GOP enthusiasm for supplying Ukraine with weapons. (Christian Carrillo/U.S. Army) Still, the war has raised concerns about the rapid depletion of U.S. weapon stockpiles, which could cause complications if the U.S. needs to lend support in the Pacific should China make a move on Taiwan. McConnell offered a counterargument, though, saying the war in Ukraine is forcing an overdue expansion of the U.S. industrial base, providing employment for large numbers of Americans. We rebuild those (munitions) in many instances with more modern, cutting-edge equipment, he said. And we need to be rebuilding our industrial base anyway, wholly aside from the Ukraine war, because of the rising competition from Russia, and China. Whether that expansion and replenishment of weaponry is happening fast enough remains an open question. But beyond economics, backing Ukraine is about securing Europe, McConnell said. If Putin is to win this, some NATO country will be next, he said. Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa Thursday expressed annoyance after multiple petitioners seeking a review of the Supreme Courts 2019 verdict against the Faizabad sit-in decided to withdraw their pleas. "Why everyone is so scared?," the chief justice remarked, as a three-member bench comprising Athar Minallah and Justice Aminuddin Khan heard the review pleas. Multiple pleas were filed challenging the verdict on the Faizabad sit-in staged by the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) in 2017 against the then Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government. CJP Isa, who was a member of the three-member bench that issued the 2019 verdict, also expressed annoyance over the non-implementation of the years-old order. The chief justice told the parties seeking to withdraw their pleas the federal government, Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority, the Election Commission of Pakistan, and others to submit their responses in writing and explain the reasons behind their decision. "I am surprised over the petitioners request to call back their petitions," the CJP remarked, noting that he wanted to give time to the petitioners as he adjourned the hearing till November 1. Briefly, before adjourning the hearing, the CJP told the parties that their decision to withdraw their pleas meant that they had accepted the SC's order to be true. "Now is your chance to stand with the truth." The Attorney General of Pakistan (AGP) Mansoor Awan also read out the SC decision on Faizabad sit-in in the courtroom. After this [Faizabad] sit-in, many other similar incidents came to light, the CJP said adding that had the courts verdict been implemented back then other incidents would not have taken place. We will move in the right direction by implementing the 17 directions highlighted in the judgment, the AGP assured. The attorney general requested the court to adjourn the hearing for two months. To this, CJP said that "two months is a very long time". AGP Awan then said, "give a month to let you know about the progress". Petitioners seek withdrawal Presenting his arguments to the court, AGP Awan said that the federal government does not want to pursue this case. "Why do you want to withdraw this case now?" CJP inquired from the AGP. "It was said that the previous verdict had flaws in it. Now provide a reason for withdrawing this case," he added. AGP Awan said that the ruling party was different when the review petition was filed. "Why did you not file a written plea?" CJP Isa asked the attorney general. To which, the latter replied that he was giving his statement. Likewise, Pemra's counsel Hafiz Ahsan sought withdrawal of the plea saying the media regulatory body did not want to pursue the case. At this, CJP Isa asked on whose instructions is the plea being withdrawn. Similarly, the apex court allowed Awami Muslim League (AML) chief Sheikh Rasheed to hire new counsel after the court was told that his lawyer was appointed as provincial minister. PTI lawyer Ali Zafar also told the court that the party did not want to pursue the matter. "Do you have the authority to take back the petition?" CJP Isa asked. "If you want to become a respondent, the court will allow you. To this, advocate Zafar replied, "No, we do not want to become a respondent in this case." The court further directed petitioner Ejazul Haq to submit an affidavit that he has reservations over the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) report on the Faizabad report. "I was termed as an irresponsible politician in the judgment. I did not speak in favour of the sit-in," Haq told the court. CJP Isa observed: "Your name was mentioned in the ISI report. We did not write anyone's name as an irresponsible political leader." "You should submit your affidavit," the court directed Haq's lawyer. Earlier today, the federal government filed an application in the Supreme Court to withdraw its plea against the verdict. AGP Awan told private news channel that the federal government, which had filed the plea through the Ministry of Defence, has decided to withdraw its petition. Earlier this week, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) and Intelligence Bureau (IB) also filed similar applications, seeking the withdrawal of their petitions. Last week, the apex court in response to a series of review petitions submitted against its previous ruling said that it would revisit the Faizabad sit-in case on September 28 (today). The review petitions were filed by the Ministry of Defence, the IB, the PTI, the Pemra, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), Awami Muslim League chief Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed and Ejazul Haq. Rasheeds lawyer had also sought adjournment of todays hearing saying his client was not in custody and could not be contacted. Faizabad sit-in legal saga This legal saga began on April 15, 2019, when the then-federal government, along with entities like the Defence Ministry, Intelligence Bureau, PTI government, AML chief Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, MQM-P, and the Pemra, among others, filed review pleas contesting the apex court's judgement delivered by the incumbent Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa regarding the Faizabad sit-in case. Earlier on February 6, 2019, a two-member bench of the apex court comprising the now-CJP Isa and Justice Mushir Alam recommended that persons, issuing an edict or fatwa to harm another person or put another person in the harms way must be dealt with iron hand and prosecuted under relevant laws. It also ruled that the intelligence agencies must not exceed their respective mandates. Later, the bench disposed of a suo moto case regarding the 2017 Faizabad sit-in staged by the TLP. The 43-page verdict issued by the two-judge bench and published on the apex court's website read: "Every citizen and political party has the right to assemble and protest provided such assembly and protest is peaceful and complies with the law imposing reasonable restrictions in the interest of public order. The right to assemble and protest is circumscribed only to the extent that it infringes on the fundamental rights of others, including their right to free movement and to hold and enjoy property." In November 2017, the top court took suo motu notice of the three-week-long sit-in, which was held against a change in the finality-of-Prophethood oath, termed by the government as a clerical error, when the government passed the Elections Act 2017. The sit-in was called off after the protesters reached an agreement with the government. ATHENS, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Two people were missing after a privately chartered helicopter crashed on Thursday off Greece's Evia island. The area was in the grip of a storm, the Greek national news agency AMNA reported. The Agusta A109 helicopter took off from the mainland for the city of Volos but the weather forced it to make a brief landing in the village of Mantoudi in the northern part of the island Evia. The crash occurred after the helicopter left Mantoudi. A rescue operation was underway on Thursday. Eyewitnesses saw the helicopter suddenly losing altitude. Fanis Spanos, governor of the Region of Central Greece, was among the first arriving at the site. The wider region of Evia has been battered by Storm Elias since Wednesday. Several settlements suffered severe flood damage, power cuts and water supply problems. Homes have been flooded, roads had to be closed due to landslides, and more than a dozen communities were evacuated. Late on Wednesday, 257 people were evacuated to safety in Volos, Greece's Civil Protection and Climate Crisis Minister Vassilis Kikilias said on Thursday during his visit to the area, according to an e-mailed press release. "Climate change is here," the minister said. The region was struck by another storm two weeks ago which had also caused extensive flooding, damages and 17 deaths. The Eritrean national says the organ was surgically removed while drugged and being kept at a house in Sudan An African woman who claims her kidney was forcibly harvested before she fled to Ireland has launched a legal challenge to being denied status as a victim of human trafficking. The Eritrean national says the organ was surgically removed while drugged and being kept at a house in Sudan. She is seeking to judicially review a determination reached by the Home Office following her escape and onward journey to Belfast earlier this year. Lawyers for the woman, who is in her twenties but cannot be identified, contend that the decision unlawfully violated her right to be protected from trafficking and slavery. A High Court judge today listed the case for hearing next month. Papers lodged as part of the challenge state that the woman left Eritrea after her father was killed because of his opposition to its government. She moved to Ethiopia and worked as a maid for a family until a member of that household allegedly beat and tried to rape her. Assisted by an agent, she escaped and was brought to Sudan, where she was kept for seven months. During her stay in a packed, dirty house run by traffickers one of her kidneys was forcibly harvested, it is claimed. In her affidavit the woman recalled how she discovered what happened to her after medicine had been mixed into her food. The next thing I remember is waking up (on a mattress on the floor) and feeling discomfort in my abdomen, she stated. After about one week I was able to remove the plaster. I saw the wound and the stitches. I talked to some other prisoners within the house, and they told me there were others who had suffered the same thing. She claimed she was forced back to work once she was able to move again, but eventually allowed to leave when the agents feared being detected by the authorities. The woman escaped to Turkey under a fake passport, according to her account, before travelling to Belfast via Greece and Dublin in order to seek asylum. At a screening interview she was referred on as a potential victim of human trafficking or modern slavery. But earlier this month the Home Office decided there were not reasonable grounds to conclude that she should be granted that status. Despite accepting her credibility and that she raised concerns about exploitation at the earliest stage, it was concluded she had not provided enough detail to support her claim. The womans legal team have mounted a number of grounds of challenge to the decision, including allegations of irrationality and breach of Article 4 of the European Convention of Human Rights, which prohibits slavery and forced labour. Speaking outside court, her solicitor, Karl McKenna of Brentnall law firm, said: "This case is a depressing and shocking example of the most vulnerable people in our society being badly let down by the current system. We hope that the Home Office will now properly review this decision as a matter of urgency and that our client can receive the important support that victims require. The accused man (51) had denied the attack, claiming the victim had spat in his face, and that he only put his hand out to fend him off. An enraged dog owner grabbed a 12-year-old boy by the throat and began to choke him, following a clash between their dogs while walking in a south Dublin park. The boy said he thought he was going to die as the man throttled him after the confrontation between their dogs. The accused man (51) had denied the attack, claiming the victim had spat in his face, and that he only put his hand out to fend him off. Finding him guilty, Judge John Hughes adjourned the case for a victim-impact statement. Dublin District Court heard the man and boy encountered each other in a park in south Dublin in June 2021. The boys dog was off the leash when it met the accuseds smaller dog around a corner, and the court heard all hell broke loose. The boy said the man screamed at him as he put the leash back on his dog. He said he repeatedly told the accused he was only 12. He said: I dont give a f**k if youre 12 or not, get your brother, get your dad, Ill kill them all, said the boy. After he left, the boy saw him again nearby. He ran over... he picked me up and started choking me, he said. I was crying, I was really scared, I thought I was going to die. I thought this fella was going to choke me to death. He said the accused pushed his throat in for around five seconds, it felt very sore and he couldnt breathe. The accused then threw him onto the ground and ran off, the boy added. Cross-examined by defence barrister Lydia Daly, the boy accepted he should have had his dog on a leash. He recalled calling the man a rapist and a paedophile, but said this was in the second encounter when he was attacked. The boys mother told the court when she saw the accused on the street later and took a photo of him, he started shouting at her. Garda Ashley Hynes was passing and intervened when she saw the accused acting hyper and using an aggressive tone to the victims mother. The accused said in evidence after the dogs met, he only told the boy his dog should be on a lead and muzzled. After, he said the boy shouted: Big f**king man, picking on a kid. He said the boy shouted f**k you and when he walked back over to him, the victim went to run off and fell over the lead. He claimed the boy bounced up and down with his fists up, called him a prick and a rapist and spat in his face. I just put my hand out to protect myself from further attack... I didnt grab his neck or any part of him, the accused said. In cross-examination, he accepted he was annoyed, that he went to reprimand the boy and it perhaps wasnt the best decision but denied screaming at him or assaulting him. Judge Hughes said there was a conflict of evidence but found the prosecution proved its case. Suspended sentence for thief who bagged up beauty creams One of the puppies seized from Mongan One of the puppies seized from Thomas Mongan who was convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to 16 pups A cruel puppy smuggler has been back in court for what a judge described as thievery on an industrial scale. Craigavon Magistrates Court was told that along with three associates, Tom Mongan went into Sainsburys in Rushmere shopping centre in November 2021 and they each filled bags with regenerative beauty creams. While the total amount stolen was just over 700, a prosecutor told the court the 28-year-old was responsible for stealing four Olay branded creams worth 120. Mongan, from Alton Avenue in Dunmurry, Co Antrim was identified from CCTV footage and later entered a guilty plea to a single count of theft. The Public Prosecution Service (PPS) lawyer began to open a further alleged incident the same day where the same gang allegedly stole over 1,000 worth of Olay and Nivea creams from a shop in Cookstown but he stopped after defence counsel argued that offence was not on the indictment. One of the puppies seized from Thomas Mongan who was convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to 16 pups District Judge Francis Rafferty told the court he had a pre-sentence report about Mongan showing thievery on an industrial scale and revealed that among the convictions is one in England for something similar 2,500 of cosmetics from Marks and Spencers. Notwithstanding all of that, probation say he is a low likelihood of reoffending, said the judge as he imposed a four-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months. Two weeks ago Mongan stood before Glasgow Sheriffs Court where he and three relatives admitted inflicting what a judge described as unspeakable cruelty towards a number of dogs between December 2020 and February 2021. According to court papers, Mongan was responsible for three dogs at rented properties in Glasgows Shawlands and Tollcross. The charge outlines how the dogs were not kept in a clean condition or suitable environment, that two of the dogs, Bella and Albi, were not vaccinated and they were exposed to suffering, injury and disease. One of the puppies seized from Mongan Bella and Albi, who have since passed away, were found to have worm burden, underweight body condition, parasitic infestation, diarrhoea and parvovirus symptoms. Mongan and his co-accused are to be sentenced for those offences in November but the Scottish case is not the first time that Mongan has stood in a dock accused of shocking cruelty. Last May at Belfast Magistrates Court, Mongan was ordered to complete 100 hours of community service after he tried to transport 16 puppies to England by squeezing them into the boot of his car. He was also banned from keeping dogs for 10 years after admitting causing unnecessary suffering to the assorted breeds who were confined in small and filthy dog crates without food or water. Belfast Harbour Police uncovered the pups as Mongan tried to board a ferry to Liverpool in October 2020. The 16 puppies, including chihuahuas, spaniels and beagles, had been squeezed into two crates that were too small, lying on top of each other, a prosecution lawyer told the court. Veterinary examinations established that at least some of the dogs were less than six weeks old and showing signs of disease. One of the animals who appeared particularly weak was diagnosed with water on the brain and later had to be put to sleep. On top of the community service and 10-year animal ban, Mongan was ordered to pay 680 towards legal and veterinary costs. The judge fined Niedra 700, disqualified him from driving for five years and imposed a three-month sentence. The motorist was reported to gardai after he removed a clamp from his vehicle. Stock image A drunken car owner removed a clamp from his vehicle and then squared up to a garda when he spoke to him, calling the officer a f**king b*llocks, a court heard. Janis Niedra (45) was sitting in the front seat of his car and drinking alcohol when gardai were called to an apartment complex in west Dublin. Judge David McHugh said father-of-two Niedras behaviour was absolutely appalling. The judge said that if Niedra had driven in the state he was in, who knows what might have happened, both to him and other road users. The judge fined Niedra 700, disqualified him from driving for five years and imposed a three-month sentence. The defendant, with an address at Charter House, Maynooth, Co Kildare, admitted to driving without insurance, being drunk in charge of a vehicle and threatening and abusive behaviour at Juliet Square, St Edmunds Park, Lucan, on May 5, 2022. Garda Eoin Kelly told Blanchardstown District Court that gardai were called to the scene at around 9.30pm following reports that a man was trying to remove a clamp from his car. Gda Kelly said Niedra was sitting in the front seat of his vehicle and drinking from a can. He had removed the clamp from the car. Gda Kelly said he spoke to Niedra, who squared up to him and resisted arrest. Niedra also called the garda a f**king b*llocks, the court heard. Gda Kelly said Niedra was arrested and taken to Ronanstown Garda Station, where he provided a specimen to gardai. It gave a reading of 27mgs of alcohol per 100mls of urine. The court heard that Niedra had a number of previous convictions, including four previous for uninsured driving. He received a disqualification for uninsured driving earlier this year. Defence solicitor Valerie Buckley said Niedra was originally from Latvia but had lived in Ireland for over 20 years. The solicitor said that Niedra had two children and was holding down a good job in the construction sector. Ms Buckley accepted the defendant had a bad history, but she asked the judge to be lenient, saying Niedra was now free of alcohol, and he was focused on keeping his job and supporting his family. Ms Buckley said Niedra realised his behaviour was unacceptable, but this incident happened over a year ago, and Niedra was no longer drinking, and was off the road and had no intention of getting behind the wheel of a car in the near future. He is further charged with damaging the alleged victims prescription glasses Ross Fitzsimons has been sent forward for trial. Photo: Irishphotodesk.ie A Dublin man accused of seriously assaulting a man and woman and damaging the males glasses has been sent forward for trial. Ross Fitzsimons (29) was served with the book of evidence when he appeared on bail before Blanchardstown District Court. The accused, with an address at Walnut Close, Kingswood in Tallaght, is charged with seriously assaulting a man at Newlands Cross in Clondalkin on January 3 last. He is further charged with damaging the alleged victims prescription glasses and the drivers side wing mirror of his 151-registered car at the same time and place. Mr Fitzsimons is also charged with seriously assaulting a female during the same incident. A state solicitor said that the book of evidence was ready and had been served on the accused, who goes forward to the next sittings of Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Judge David McHugh gave Mr Fitzsimons the formal alibi caution, warning him he had 14 days to provide to the State details of anyone he proposed calling in his defence. The judge also assigned defence solicitor Wayne Kenny and one junior counsel on free legal aid. Judge McHugh ordered that a video-copy of an interview which gardai conducted with the accused be furnished to his legal team. Mr Fitzsimons has not yet indicated how he intends to plead to the charges. The accused was remanded on the same bail to appear before a court in the Criminal Courts of Justice on a date in November. Chinese Ambassador to Slovenia Wang Shunqing speaks during a reception by the Chinese Embassy in Slovenia celebrating the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC) and the traditional Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival, in Ljubljana, Slovenia, Sept. 27, 2023. (Photo by Zeljko Stevanic/Xinhua) LJUBLJANA, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Approximately 300 people attended a reception held here on Wednesday by the Chinese Embassy in Slovenia, celebrating the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC) and the traditional Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival. The event was hosted by Chinese Ambassador to Slovenia Wang Shunqing, who greeted overseas Chinese in the country as well as a large number of Slovenian officials, businessmen and academics. Over the past 74 years, China has achieved remarkable development, Wang said in his speech, adding that as a major powerhouse of global economy growth, China will continue to uphold multilateralism and work with countries around the world to jointly address global challenges. Former Slovenian President Danilo Turk told Xinhua that China "is an extremely important partner of Europe," adding that "We need to maintain as deep and intensive relations with China as possible." His return has really upset people because of his criminal past and after what he is accused of doing Noel Johnston, who fell to his death trying to escape from Bradshaws fourth-floor flat Mark Bradshaw is accused of kidnap and attempted murder alongside four others This is career criminal Mark Bradshaw whos accused of kidnapping and attempted murder alongside former UDA boss Dee Coleman. Bradshaw, Coleman and three other men are accused of kidnapping and attempting to murder a man who was brutally beaten and left almost naked in a field to die two years ago. In that provided statement the victim claimed that Coleman had produced a knife, heating it on a gas hob, stabbing the injured party in the chest, close to his heart before slicing his face to the bone. Pictured for the first time here 53-year-old Bradshaw was controversially granted bail on medical grounds last week having spent 22 months in Maghaberry Prison on remand. A prosecutor objecting to bail at Belfast Crown Court described Bradshaw as a "career criminal" with a "significant and relevant record. Mark Bradshaw is accused of kidnap and attempted murder alongside four others But the Sunday World can reveal it was Bradshaws fourth floor flat that notorious drug baron Noel Johnston jumped from after police raided the block of flats in Ballymena. Johnston thought criminals had come to kill him and the 61-year-old father of two jumped on to a fourth window ledge at Bradshaws flat from where he hoped to escape by easing himself down a steel sewer pipe. But it is believed that as the burly-built crime king began his descent, he lost his grip, smashing his skull on the tarmac of the car park below. Residents of the apartment block in High Street in the bible-belt town are believed to be dismayed at his return to say the least. As revealed in this paper in May the apartment block has become a beacon for drug dealers and people injecting heroin and smoking crack cocaine in full view of kids who live there. The apartments are full of vulnerable people several of who suffer from serious mental health conditions who complained before about the anti-social behaviour being committed by some residents. Last night a family member of one such resident who lives there said she was concerned for her loved-one after Bradshaw returned. Noel Johnston, who fell to his death trying to escape from Bradshaws fourth-floor flat His return has really upset people because of his criminal past and after what he is accused of doing, said the concerned relative. The apartments themselves are brilliant but people like Bradshaw have caused nothing but anxiety, worry and stress. It seems the housing association left his apartment for him for the full 22 months he was on remand. Now hes back and people are worried because they have read about him being a career criminal and theyve read about the attempted murder case which is extremely upsetting. It was his flat that your man Johnston jumped from which adds to the anxiety if thats the kind of people he was mixing with. The five accused of attempted murder and kidnap are: Dee Coleman (37), from Fountain Place in Ballymena; Mark Bradshaw (53), from High Street in Ballymena; David Philip Cherry (40), from Waveney Park in Belfast; Sean Davies (40), from Queens Park in Saintfield; and Glen Sheridan (46), from Florence Walk in Belfast. Coleman, Bradshaw and Davies are also charged with arson by setting fire to the alleged victims Volvo jeep. Last week Bradshaws barrister Jonathan O'Connor said his medical issues including needing a CAT scan and were not being addressed within the prison setting. Objecting to Bradshaw's release, Crown barrister Michael Chambers said: "Even though the courts see terrible cases come before it all the time, the brutality and severity of the injuries in this case really do stand out." He said that two of Bradshaw's co-accused "encouraged" the injured party to attend an address in Ballymena on October 11, 2021. Upon his arrival at the property, which previous hearings have been told was ex Shankill terror boss Colemans flat, it's the Crown's case the two co-accused "interrogated" the injured party then attacked him over a minor drugs matter. Mr Chambers said two other men then arrived, a knife was heated on a cooker and the injured party was stabbed in the chest then had the knife put into the inside of his mouth, which was also slashed. The court heard that as the wounded man started "begging for his life", the other men present were "all laughing while he was bleeding on the floor". The prosecutor said the injured party was then made to clean up the blood "while he was kicked about the room" - and at this point one of the attackers called Bradshaw and asked him 'where do I get rid of somebody?'. Mr Chambers said: "Mr Bradshaw dutifully arrived and they marched the injured party out to a car. He was ordered to get into another car and the car was driven off with him inside. "They stopped at a field outside Ballymena and essentially dumped the injured party in that field and, the prosecution would say, left him to die." Ex-UDA boss Dee Coleman Saying the vehicle used was burned out, Mr Chambers said that after he was dumped, the wounded man "quickly lost consciousness" and was discovered by binmen the following morning. He was airlifted to hospital and treated for an array of serious injuries, with Mr Chambers telling Judge Peter Irvine "he is permanently disfigured by this incident." The prosecutor added that Bradshaw's release was being objected to due to police concerns including interfering with the injured party. Branding Bradshaw as a "career criminal" with a "significant and relevant record", Mr Chambers pointed out previous bids Bradshaw has made for bail have been refused. The prosecutor also addressed Bradshaw's medical issues and told Judge Irvine: "The prison have a statutory obligation to ensure that he is properly provided with healthcare ... and there has not been enough evidence placed before the court to persuade you that is not being done." Defence barrister Jonathan O'Connor reacted by saying a wealth of medical evidence had been submitted which indicated concerns expressed about Bradshaw's "genuine health concerns." This, Mr O'Connor said, included medical notes which raised concerns over a potential blockage in a stent as well as the need for a CAT scan. The barrister also spoke of mobility issues, said Bradshaw can "just about walk 100 yards" and sometimes uses a wheelchair within Maghaberry. Concerning the charges faced by his client, Bradshaw's barrister said that whilst the attack on the injured man was "barbaric", it's the Crown's case he wasn't present when the assault took place. He added the case against Bradshaw is that "he was called after ... a tail-end charlie who comes in at the end and is asked to be given advice as to where to get rid of a body. "It's denied he was there at all." Bail was granted and Bradshaw was ordered to reside at his flat at High Street in Ballymena, observe a 10pm to 8am curfew and sign with police three times a week. He was also banned from leaving Ballymena - except to attend court and medical appointments - and was banned from consuming alcohol, entering licenced premises and taking any non-prescribed drugs. Crew members tried to burn the haul hidden in a lifeboat, which might have a street value as high as half-a-billion euro, as the Army Ranger Wing boarded the MV Matthew. Gerry Harrahill of Customs (left) and Commander Tony Geraghty, fleet operations commander of the navy (right), at a press conference. Photo: PA The seized MV Matthew cargo vessel moored at Marino Point in Cork after a significant quantity of drugs was found onboard. Photo: Niall Carson/PA Wire Gerry Harrahill of Customs (left) and Commander Tony Geraghty, fleet operations commander of the navy (right), at a press conference. Photo: PA The seized MV Matthew cargo vessel moored at Marino Point in Cork after a significant quantity of drugs was found onboard. Photo: Niall Carson/PA Wire Detectives believe the Kinahan cartel invested in a part of the cocaine haul seized off the south coast Gardai believe the Kinahan cartel had a significant investment in the cocaine shipment recovered from a cargo vessel off the Cork coast. Crew members tried to burn the haul hidden in a lifeboat, which might have a street value as high as half-a-billion euro, as the Army Ranger Wing boarded the MV Matthew. Detectives are also investigating a possible link between the drug seizure and bales of cocaine that washed up on the Donegal shoreline in July. There are also serious concerns the major drugs bust will lead to bloodshed following the disruption to the operations of several crime gangs involved. Six men including a UK national, a Russian man, the Iranian captain of the vessel and three others were in garda custody last night after being arrested under organised crime legislation. Detectives are continuing to interview the other 25 crew members, with further arrests expected as part of the wider investigation. The multi-agency operation involving garda, customs and defence forces personnel had been in place for over a month, with the Irish Naval Service tracking the vessel since last week. A trawler ran aground on Sunday night and its two crewmen were arrested while efforts were made to stop the cargo vessel, described as the mother ship that would have supplied drugs to the smaller boat. Largest seizure in country's history wouldn't have happened without Irish gang, Gardai say When the cargo vessel failed to stop, it was stormed by Army Rangers, who fired a warning shot before boarding. The massive haul had been stored on a lifeboat on the starboard side of the mother ship. Sources said attempts were made to set fire to bales of cocaine with an accelerant as the Rangers boarded. However, fire extinguishers were used to put out the blaze and it is understood the majority of the drugs were not damaged. The ship was later brought to Cork where members of the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau carried out a search. More than 2.25 tonnes of high-purity cocaine was recovered, valued at around 157m. However, the drugs would have been cut down, increasing the value three-fold, with some sources estimating the street value at up to 500m. Assistant Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly, from the Organised and Serious Crime Unit, described it as the biggest drug seizure in the history of the State. He said it originated from a murderous South American gang and Irish crime groups would have worked with other criminals. At this stage, investigators are satisfied a significant quantity of the shipment was fronted by the Kinahan organised crime gang. Detectives believe the Kinahan cartel invested in a part of the haul with other European crime gangs with some, but not all, of the cocaine destined for the Irish market. Gardai have intelligence that the Kinahan group are not involved in day-to-day drug dealing in Ireland any more, but facilitate wholesale shipments into the country through their networks. The main person in charge of this has previously been Sean McGovern, a close confidant of Daniel Kinahan, who is wanted in Ireland to face charges of murder and organised crime offences. It is understood the MV Matthew had Poland as its official destination, but gardai are dubious about this. Detectives investigating the links to the Donegal drugs seizure in July are aware of reports of attempts made to buy an old trawler in Killybegs by two foreign nationals. The proposed sale fell through when the owner apparently became suspicious of the pair and feared he might not be paid. The two men match the description of the two who bought an old trawler in Castletownbere that then ran it on a sandbank off Wexford on Sunday. One source said: This is a significant drugs network that has been operating for some time. It is being actively investigated if this cargo ship was connected to the cocaine discovered in Donegal recently. There will unfortunately be ramifications for this, and that means murders. This may not particularly be on Irish streets because European crime groups were also involved, but this will lead to bloodshed. Samples of the drugs have been sent to the State Laboratory to try to determine their precise origin. Commander Tony Geraghty, fleet operations officer of the Irish Naval Service, said: There was an extremely complex joint operation involving the Naval Service, the Air Corps, the Army Ranger Wing and Defence Forces headquarters. And then it was even more complex by environments that we had no control over. The weather was extremely poor. Also, we were trying to predict the actions of the number of crime gangs and how that would impact on us. It was very successful from a Defence Forces point of view. Commander Geraghty said warning shots were fired at the cargo vessel before the boarding operation. The merchant ship refused to follow the instructions of our own ship, so this was prior to the insertion of the Army Ranger Wing, he said. There was an escalated use of force to compel the vessel to follow the instructions of the ships captain. Asked whether they believed any cocaine had left the ship before the interception, Assistant Commissioner Kelly said he was not able to comment on that because three people were in custody. It is believed the Panamanian-registered bulk cargo vessel left waters off Venezuela on August 18 and was last reported at Willemstad, the capital of Curacao. It crossed the Atlantic and then spent more than a week in waters near the Canary Islands. It then skirted Spain and France before heading towards Ireland and the UK, finally entering Irish waters off the Cork coast. The ship issued an emergency alert to Irish authorities, indicating its captain had been injured in a fall on board and required medical attention. In the following 48 hours it signalled it was also having engine trouble and needed maintenance work. However, it then abruptly headed towards international waters on Monday before it was intercepted. Its alleged church leaders at the time knew about Chesneys IRA links. Fr James Chesney was not quizzed on the Claudy atrocity The Catholic Church could be in court next year over what it knew about the alleged IRA activities of a priest. Father James Chesney is suspected of having been involved in IRA attacks during the early years of the Troubles - including the 1972 Claudy atrocity which killed nine people. Its alleged church leaders at the time knew about Chesneys IRA links. According to a 2010 Police Ombudsmans report, a police investigation into Chesney was stopped after senior officers conspired with the government and Catholic Church to protect him. Instead of being questioned about the Claudy attack, Chesney was transferred to a parish in County Donegal following secret talks between the then secretary of state William Whitelaw and the head of the Catholic Church in Ireland, Cardinal William Conway. Chesney died in 1980 at the age of 46 without ever being quizzed about the Claudy massacre. No one has ever been charged in connection with the attack on August 31, 1972, when three car bombs devastated the County Derry village. It was blamed on the Provisional IRA - but the terror group has never admitted being responsible. At the time of the attack, Chesney is believed to have been a senior figure within the south Derry brigade of the IRA. While not believed to have been involved directly with the placing of the bombs in Claudy, he was suspected of helping to plan the attack. In 2013, relatives of three of the victims William Watson Temple, 16, David Miller, 60, and James McClelland, 64 launched legal action against the PSNI, the Northern Ireland Office (NIO) and the Catholic Church over the events surrounding the Claudy attack. Two years ago, the PSNI and Northern Ireland Office agreed confidential settlements without an admission of liability. The relatives are continuing with a civil case against the Catholic Church. The relatives solicitor Barry ODonnell, from KRW Law, said his clients had always made it very clear they hold the IRA responsible for the deaths of their loved ones. However, he said the civil case against the Catholic Church was proceeding. The actions were taken against three defendants, the Catholic Diocese of Derry, the Chief Constable of the PSNI and the NIO, said Mr ODonnell. The actions against the PSNI and the NIO were settled in mediation. The court case against the Catholic Diocese of Derry continues and it would be inappropriate to comment on the action whilst court proceedings continue. Mr ODonnell urged anyone with information about the Claudy even now 51 years later to come forward. The families would appeal to anyone that has information on who carried out the bombings to contact the police or the families solicitor at KRW Law. When contacted by the Sunday World, a spokesperson for the Catholic Church declined to comment on the legal action. There are live proceedings currently before the court and having taken legal advice it would not be appropriate to make any comment or answer any questions relating to those proceedings until they have been concluded. However, it is understood if a settlement is not reached, the case will come before a court next year. The Claudy atrocity Claudy is often described as one of the forgotten atrocities of the Troubles. The attack took place on the same day as Operation Motorman - when 12,000 British soldiers entered republican no-go areas in Belfast and Derry in a bid to regain control. The first bomb exploded without warning outside McElhinney's shop and bar on Main Street in Claudy. Minutes after the first bomb went off, killing three and fatally wounding three others, police officers discovered a second device in a van beside the village post office. Officers evacuated people towards the Beaufort Hotel - but a third bomb had been concealed in another van outside the hotel. Soon after the second bomb detonated, the third exploded, killing three more. Police believe the bombers attempted to telephone a warning from nearby Dungiven but the lines were down as the result of past bomb damage to the phone exchange. They then told Dungiven shop owners three bombs were planted in the village, but the proprietors were also unable to contact the authorities due to the line problems. One shop owner rushed to Dungiven police station with the warning - but it was too late. Father Chesney had long been suspected by police of being a member of the IRA. In his 2010 report, Northern Ireland Police Ombudsman Al Hutchinson revealed the part played by the RUC in the high-level cover-up around the priest. Mr Hutchinson's officers examined diaries belonging to Cardinal Conway which confirmed contact with him and Mr Whitelaw over Chesney and correspondence between the RUC, which was led by chief constable Sir Graham Shillington, and the government. Mr Whitelaw, a minister in Edward Heath's Conservative government, died in 1999, Cardinal Conway in 1977 and Sir Graham in 2001. Findings in Mr Hutchinson's report included: Police believed Chesney was the IRA's director of operations in south Derry and was a prime suspect in the Claudy attack and other terrorist incidents. A detective's request to arrest the cleric was refused by an assistant chief constable of RUC Special Branch who instead said, "matters are in hand". The same senior officer wrote to the government about what action could be taken to "render harmless a dangerous priest" and asked if the matter could be raised with the church's hierarchy. In December 1972, Mr Whitelaw met Cardinal Conway to discuss the issue. According to a NIO official, "the cardinal said he knew the priest was a very bad man and would see what could be done". The church leader mentioned "the possibility of transferring him to Donegal..." In response to this memo, RUC chief constable Sir Graham noted: "I would prefer a transfer to Tipperary." An entry in Cardinal Conway's diary on December 5, 1972, confirmed a meeting with Mr Whitelaw took place and stated there had been "a rather disturbing tetea-tete at the end about C". In another diary entry two months later, the cardinal noted that he had discussed the issue with Chesney's superior and that "the superior however had given him orders to stay where he was on sick leave until further notice". Chesney was transferred across the border to Malin Head parish in County Donegal in late 1973 and never ministered again in Northern Ireland. According to church records, he denied involvement in the IRA when questioned by his superiors. In his 2010 report, Mr Hutchinson said there was no evidence the police had information that could have prevented the Claudy attack. However, he said the RUC's decision to ask the government to resolve the matter with the church, and then accept the outcome, was wrong. "The decision failed those who were murdered, injured and bereaved in the bombing," he said. "The police officers who were working on the investigation were also undermined." Mr Hutchinson said the decisions made must be considered in the context of the time. "I accept that 1972 was one of the worst years of the Troubles and that the arrest of a priest might well have aggravated the security situation," he said. "Equally, I consider that the police failure to investigate someone they suspected of involvement in acts of terrorism could, in itself, have had serious consequences." As regards the role of church and State officials, Mr Hutchinson said his investigation found no evidence of criminal intent on the part of any government minister or official or any official of the Catholic Church. However, he added: "The morality or 'rightness' of the decision taken by the government and the Catholic Church in agreeing to the RUC request is another matter entirely. We know how many people can be seriously injured, losing fingers, losing limbs and losing other parts of themselves every year Gardai have made a cracking good seizure of fireworks in Co Tipperary as a new campaign was launched to warn of the dangers ahead of the Halloween season. Posting a picture of the seized fireworks on X, gardai revealed that officers with Roscrea and Nenagh with assistance from the Southern Region Dog Unit searched a property in Roscrea and seized these illegal fireworks. The new awareness campaign launched yesterday by Minister of State James Browne with members of the ISPCA and the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind revealed how there have been 38 fireworks incidents recorded by gardai so this year. This years campaign focusses on the significant distress that fireworks can cause vulnerable people in our communities. Fireworks can also cause great harm and stress to family pets, guide dogs and assistance dogs. As of 17 September, 38 fireworks incidents have been recorded by An Garda Siochana this year. In total last year, 158 such incidents were recorded. As we head into the run-up to Halloween, I would like to urge everyone to refrain from purchasing or using illegal fireworks, Browne said. When misused, they are a nuisance to our communities, but they can also have a detrimental impact on the wellbeing of some more vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly and people with sensory challenges, he said. Speaking at the Dublin Fire Brigade Training Centre in Marino this afternoon, Browne said: We know how many people can be seriously injured, losing fingers, losing limbs and losing other parts of themselves every year. Browne noted that the use of fireworks is a very serious criminal offence and that people can face up to five years imprisonment and heavy fines. Were asking people once again, please dont use these fireworks. They are dangerous. The Minister added: These are explosives, they can do real damage. Tim OMahoney, chief executive of the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, said in a statement that every year his team is faced with the heartbreak of seeing guide dogs and assistance dogs traumatised from the impact of fireworks. Whilst our dogs are highly trained to cope with many situations, if a dog has an experience that goes beyond a normal level of stress, such as a firework exploding close to them, this can overly sensitise the dogs, similar to PTSD in humans, he said. A major search has been ongoing for the past three days of the seas around Wexford to determine if any cargo is floating on the surface The seizure is believed to be the largest in the history of the State A seventh man has been arrested by gardai investigating what has been described as the largest drug bust in the history of the State. Gardai investigating the detention of the Panamanian registered bulk cargo vessel, MV Matthew, and associated events arrested the man for alleged organised crime offences contrary to the Criminal Justice Act 2006. This brings the total number of people in Garda custody to seven. All seven men have been detained under section 50 Criminal Justice Act 2007, as part of the same investigation, at Garda stations in the Southern Region, gardai said. Meanwhile, a major salvage operation is underway to recover a trawler which ran aground off Wexford just hours before a drugs 'mother ship' carrying 2.2 tonnes of cocaine was detained in a dramatic operation by the Naval Service off the Cork coast. The old trawler Castlemore - which had been purchased just the previous week in west Cork having been for sale for several months - ran aground on a sandbank off Blackwater, Wexford, on Sunday evening triggering a major rescue operation. The seizure is believed to be the largest in the history of the State Gardai are now investigating whether the vessel had been scheduled to rendezvous with the bulk carrier MV Matthew which was detained in an armed mission by the Naval Service, Army Ranger Wing and Gardai and is now impounded in Cork harbour. A tug, supported by the Irish Lights Vessel Granuaile, arrived at the sandbank off Blackwater just before 2pm on Thursday to try to recover the old trawler. ILV Granuaile sailed from Dun Laoghaire on Thursday morning to offer support if required. The specialised Irish Lights vessel is described as a multi-functional vessel which can operate in difficult sea conditions. Its primary function is to service offshore buoys, however it also serves as a helicopter platform and is available to assist state agencies with search and rescue and emergency towing. The Coast Guard Rescue 117 helicopter has also returned to the scene of the stricken trawler this morning and circled the sandbank off the Wexford coast. Divers are also set to be deployed both to examine the hull of the trawler and to inspect the area of seabed around the vessel. This is to determine if any cargo was dumped from the trawler in the hours before rescue services arrived at the scene. A major search has been ongoing for the past three days of the seas around Wexford to determine if any cargo is floating on the surface - with the search effort hampered by Storm Agnes. If the trawler's hull is intact and in good condition it is expected that the vessel will be brought to Cork harbour where it will be berthed near Haulbowline Naval Base. However, if there are concerns about the trawler's hull it will instead be taken to the nearest port in Wexford or Waterford. The trawler will then be subjected to a detailed forensic and technical examination. It was purchased in Castletownbere by two individuals, one with a UK address and the other an eastern European national who claimed not to speak English, who said it was for fishing operations from Brixham in Devon. However, it ran aground on a sandbank less than 48 hours after it departed Castletownbere on Friday - and its route off Wexford was not a charted course for Brixham. Gardai are now liaising with police in the United Arab Emirates, China, the UK, Spain and the Caribbean over the 22-year-old Panamanian-registered bulk carrier that operated as the 'mother ship' for cocaine shipments from South America into Europe. The MV Matthew being escorted into Cork The 28,000 tonne MV Matthew - which was previously known as the MV Honmon - is now being examined by forensic and technical experts at anchor at Marino Point in Cork harbour after it was interdicted by the Naval Service in a dramatic operation off the south coast on Tuesday. A whopping 2.2 tonnes of cocaine was discovered in the cargo hold of the freighter. An initial value of 157m has been placed on the drugs seized but, if the purity of the cocaine is as high as Gardai fear, it could prove multiple times that value. Gardai have already described it as the largest haul in the history of the State. The cocaine was transported under armed guard on Wednesday evening to a secure storage facility in Dublin. Garda sources warned the search of the vessel will likely take several days and may involve interior bulkheads being dismantled to ensure any potential hidden compartments are located. The freighter - which is valued at 9.5m - is anchored at Marino Point, an isolated and secure anchorage in Cork Harbour. Technical and forensic experts will painstakingly examine the vessel from bow to stern including its bilge and fuel tanks. A Naval Service vessel had to fire across the bow of the freighter as it steamed towards international waters and away from the Cork coast on Tuesday. The ship was then detained at gunpoint after a unit of the elite Army Ranger Wing abseiled from an Air Corps helicopter onto the ship's deck and directed its crew to follow Naval Service instructions. An estimated 157m worth of cocaine was recovered from the ship which Gardai suspect was being used by a South American-based drugs cartel to supply the European market. Detectives believe that, such is the scale of the 2.2 tonne drugs haul, that the shipment was destined for the Irish and UK markets as well as potentially Continental European markets. Samples of the drugs have now been sent to the State Laboratory to try to determine their precise origin with Garda sources said they expect the drugs to have been sourced from the Medellin area of Columbia. That indicates that the purity of the cocaine is expected to prove extremely high - potentially making the street value of the seizure multiple times greater than the current estimate. It marks yet another major drug seizure off Ireland's south coast following previous major operations including Dunlough Bay (440m - 2007), Dances With Waves (400m - 2008) and Makayabella (2014 - 350m). The street value of the Makayabella haul was increased from an initial 80m to almost 350m when it emerged that the cocaine was close to maximum possible purity. Gardai and Naval Service officials are now coordinating with Interpol and Europol amid fears the freighter was also making drug shipments to other European countries. The bulk carrier is owned via a shelf company in China linked to the Marshall Islands and is managed by a marine operations firm based in the United Arab Emirates. One source noted that it is the only vessel operated by that firm. It is registered in Panama but has spent a portion of recent months operating off South America and the Caribbean. Maritime officials are now trying to pinpoint the precise movements of the freighter in the Caribbean - and why it apparently loitered for almost two weeks off the Canary Islands. Officials are also curious over why the name of the vessel was changed. One source confirmed that the ship left waters off Venezuela on August 18. "That is significant because the seas around Venezuela are usually where the Colombian cartels load up their 'mother ships'. Three of the previous four major Irish drug shipments had connections to those waters," he said. On August 18, the ship left waters off Venezuela and was last reported at Willemstad in Curacao in the Caribbean. The freighter crossed the Atlantic and then spent over a week in waters near the Canary Islands in early September. Maritime officials are curious at this because the vessel apparently loitered in the waters off the African coast for almost two weeks. It then skirted Spain and France before heading towards Ireland and the UK, finally entering Irish waters off the Cork coast. The freighter issued an emergency alert to the Irish authorities indicating that its captain had been injured in a serious fall on board and required medical attention. A successful airlift brought the injured sailor to an Irish hospital where he is being treated for non-life threatening injuries. Bizarrely, in the 48 hours before it was detained, the freighter also signalled that it was having engine trouble and required maintenance work in Cork Port. However, the bulk carrier then abruptly headed towards international waters at high speed on Monday evening. This is believed to have occurred after it was realised a trawler which the freighter was expected to rendezvous with had run aground on a sandbank off the Wexford coast, prompting a major rescue operation on Sunday night and into the early hours of Monday morning. The freighter was then intercepted by the Naval Service and detained by armed members of the Army Ranger Wing. Initial directions to the freighter to slow and allow the vessel to be boarded were ignored and the Naval Service vessel had to fire warning shots across the bow of the 28,000 tonne ship. The freighter is expected to remain impounded in Cork until next year. Gardai are remaining tight-lipped in relation to the ongoing operation to retrieve smaller vessel and have said that no further comment is available at this time. At a joint task force press conference on Wednesday, Assistant Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly confirmed that, due to difficult weather conditions, nobody had yet been able to board and search the trawler. He also refused to be drawn on whether a handover of drugs had taken place between the cargo ship and the trawler off the Wexford coast, or whether drugs had been dumped overboard, saying these are matters that are being put to the men in custody. A number of men dressed as workers knocked on the door before forcing their way into the house. Gardai have arrested three men as part of a probe into a violent home invasion during which a grandfather was beaten with an iron bar. The terrifying aggravated burglary happened in the Carrickbrennan Lawn area of Monkstown, Dublin, at around 8.15am on Monday, August 21. A number of men dressed as workers knocked on the door before forcing their way into the house. The four occupants, including a couple in their 70s, their daughter and their grandchild who is aged under 10 were then held against their will. The grandfather was beaten with an iron bar as the raiders searched the house for valuables. It is understood that a number of items were taken during the burglary, including cash. The raiders then tried to flee the scene in a BMW Estate, but the vehicle failed to start. The gang abandoned the car and fled on foot in the direction of Monkstown Village. Emergency services were alerted and the injured pensioner was rushed to St Vincents University Hospital in south Dublin, where he was treated for non-life threatening injuries. Investigators from the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) Detective Unit, Emergency Response Unit, and Armed Support Unit carried out a number of searches today, September 28, with assistance from uniformed gardai. Three men, aged in their 20s and 40s, were subsequently arrested and are currently detained at garda stations in south Dublin under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984. A garda spokesperson said: Gardai have arrested three men in relation to the investigation into an aggravated burglary and false imprisonment that occurred at a residence in Monkstown, Co. Dublin on Monday, 21st August 2023. A man (aged in his 70s) was seriously assaulted during the incident. Three men (aged in their 20s and 40s) were arrested this morning and are currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984, at garda stations in South Dublin. Investigations are ongoing. Shortly after 9pm, it was reported that a man in his 20s had been shot three times in the legs Police at the scene of a shooting incident in the Upper Movilla Street area of Newtownards on September 27th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Police at the scene of a shooting incident in the Divismore Crescent area of west Belfast on September 27th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Two men were shot in separate incidents in Belfast and Down on Wednesday evening. The first shooting took place in the Divismore Crescent area of west Belfast. Shortly after 9pm, it was reported that a man in his 20s had been shot three times in the legs. He has been taken to hospital for treatment. A cordon was in place as the investigation is underway. Meanwhile, police also attended the scene of a separate shooting incident at Upper Movilla Street, Newtownards. Shortly after 9.30pm it was reported that a man in his 30s had been shot in one leg. He has been taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries. The pressure group Stop Attacks has condemned the brutal act. Another human rights abuse carried out last night in Ards, it posted on social media. "Another brutal act that will have life-changing consequences for the victim. "These actions don't protect communities they are rooted in the power and control criminal gangs want over neighbourhoods. "This must end. Anyone with any information on either shooting which could assist with police enquiries is asked to contact officers on 101. I haven't really slept properly, because I still have that image of her lying there A forensic investigator puts flowers into a container at the scene near the Whitgift shopping centre (Lucy North/PA) The scene near the Whitgift shopping centre in Croydon (PA) The 15-year-old schoolgirl who was stabbed to death with a zombie knife on her way to school in South London has been named locally as Eliyanna Andam. A pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift, a private girls school in Croydon, she had been travelling to school when a row broke out on a bus during the Wednesday morning rush hour in Croydon. The argument is said to have spilt out of the number 60 bus and on to the pavement outside a shopping centre, where the girl was attacked by a young man at around 8.30am. One girl was seen being held back, screaming: Thats my best friend, as she tried to push past the crowds to reach the wounded teenager. The attacker is said to have pulled out a foot-long, serrated zombie knife and stabbed the victim when she went to her friends defence. The scene near the Whitgift shopping centre in Croydon (PA) One mother who had just dropped her children at school witnessed the moments after the girl was stabbed to death in Croydon described the scene. The mother, who only gave her name as Iman, told the PA news agency: "I was driving past when I noticed that somebody was lying down on the floor. "I drove round, parked up and tried to get as close as I could. Two young girls were saying it was a young lady and she had been stabbed in the neck. "I haven't really slept properly, because I still have that image of her lying there." The mother, from Streatham in south London, said she saw police officers at the scene take aside a bus driver who "looked like he was almost holding" the 15-year-old victim. A teenage boy remains in custody being questioned by detectives after the "much-loved" youngster, named locally as Eliyanna, died after the stabbing. More than 40 bunches of flowers had been left at the scene on Thursday, with touching messages to the teenager. Among the floral tributes, cards and candles, one message read: "Rest in peace little princess so sad your life is taken away at your prime. You have touched my soul." A 17-year-old boy, who knew the victim, was arrested just over an hour after the attack which took place on busy Wellesley Road at around 8.30am. A steady flow of well-wishers left flowers and cards near the scene on Wednesday evening, and the girl's school paid tribute to its "valued friend and pupil". Anthony King, chairman of My Ends - a project helping combat youth violence in Croydon, was with the girl's family after the incident and said they were "heartbroken". He added: "She had a bright future ahead of her. She was in her GCSE year." Mr King described the girl as an "absolutely incredible young lady" and told of how others said she was "jovial, very comedic".. A forensic investigator puts flowers into a container at the scene near the Whitgift shopping centre (Lucy North/PA) One of the cards left near to where the attack took place read: "Sorry we live in this crazy world this makes no sense. "Fly high up there my mummy will look after you. RIP beautiful, forever young, taken too soon. "Thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends, God bless." Another said: "Rest in peace little princess. So sad your life is taken away at your prime you have touched my soul." Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley visited the scene and said: "The senseless murder of a 15-year-old girl on her way to school is impossible to comprehend. "It was moving and humbling to meet many members of the exceptional Croydon community who have come together in support of a family now dealing with the most unimaginable grief." The girl was a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift School, a private girls' school in Croydon. The school said in a statement: "We are deeply shocked by the senseless and tragic death of our much-loved and valued friend and pupil. "Above all, we send our love and deepest sympathies to the girl's family at this unimaginably distressing time." Security worker Victor Asare told PA that blood ran "like water" and members of the public rushed to help after the girl was attacked. He said: "The blood was coming like water. A lot of people came, everyone came off the bus. "(The suspect) ran away. Everybody was crying and screaming. The girl was on the floor. "We tried to catch him and a lot of people tried to save the girl. I was so shocked, I was shaken. It's somebody's daughter. "I finished work but couldn't sleep, so came back, I wanted to see if the girl was OK." Mr Asare said the girl, who was wearing a green school blazer, looked as if she "didn't want the boy to come closer" before she was stabbed in the neck with a knife that was "black, thin and about a foot long". Emergency services were called to Wellesley Road at around 8.30am but the girl was pronounced dead at the scene 50 minutes later. A bus driver and a passer-by were seen desperately trying to save the girl before emergency services arrived, with police at the scene within two minutes. A mother of two, who wanted to be named only as Bridget, said: "I was on the bus before and came off and walked back down, I saw them resuscitating her. "The driver was holding her, and a lady. The emergency services were already here when I walked back." She said two other schoolgirls, believed to be the victim's friends, were trying to get through the police cordon but were held back. Met Police Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain told reporters at the scene: "This is every parent's worst nightmare, and I know the officers who responded this morning, along with our emergency service colleagues, are devastated at the victim's death. Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said he was "absolutely heartbroken" at the news of the girl's death. Little Pyg Terrace, the third venue of the Pygmalion Group, will open in the city centre on Friday. The Italian meat and cheese platter at Little Pyg Terrace. Photo: Rob Kenny PR A Dublin restaurant is serving free food and drink tomorrow to celebrate its grand opening. Little Pyg Terrace, the third venue of the Pygmalion Group, will open for the first time on Friday in the corner of the Powerscourt Townhouse centre, opposite the Westbury Mall. To mark the occasion, owner Paul McGlade Jnr has announced an 'eat and drink for free' offer to christen the brand-new Italian tapas and cocktail bar. The offer is valid from 4pm until 6pm Friday, September 29, with one free dish and one free drink available per person. The Italian meat and cheese platter at Little Pyg Terrace. Photo: Rob Kenny PR Celebrations will continue all weekend too as Little Pyg Terrace is slashing food and drink prices up to 50pc to celebrate the launch, excluding top shelf brands. The European-style joint will bring a unique indoor and outdoor dining experience to Dublin, allowing customers to seamlessly transition from a cosy and stylish indoor bar to an al fresco banquet. Renowned mixologist Andrea Grechi will bring the exciting new Pygtail menu to life at Little Pyg Terrace, from signature cocktails to expertly made classics. If cocktails arent your thing, the venue also boasts an extensive wine list, primarily focusing on some of the finest imports from Italy, ensuring a perfect pairing for every plate. And the restaurant promises to source the finest ingredients to be prepared by Head Chef Frederico Rapali, who has been poached all the way from Italy. Food will be primarily Italian small plates to share as well as award-winning pizzas. Some of the Italian tapas on the menu will include the Selection Board, a chef's selection of meats and cheese from Italy; Montanarine Fritte, which are traditional Neapolitan small fried pizzas with authentic toppings; and the burrata plate - all made to share. Speaking about the exciting new venue, owner Paul McGlade Jnr said: We are looking to create a vibrant atmosphere where people can enjoy a drink and share some top-quality Italian food. We are proud to have secured a custom-built Void sound system which will make Little Pyg Terrace the perfect environment for listening to and playing vinyl. No doubt everyone will be up dancing late into the night! Little Pyg Terrace opens its doors to the public tomorrow, September 29, from 4pm 1am. Open every day from 1pm - 1am, bookings can be made via littlepyg.com. In posts to her social media accounts, Kelly said she is doing well and undergoing chemotherapy. Irish author Cathy Kelly has shared news of her diagnosis with breast cancer. In posts to her social media accounts, Kelly said she is doing well and undergoing chemotherapy. Hello, this is a very different post to my usual posts but I wanted to let you all know that Ive been diagnosed with breast cancer. Ive started treatment and am currently undergoing chemotherapy, she said. Sharing photos of her pets, she wrote: Thanks to love and support and a brilliant medical team, Im doing well and youll be hearing more from me soon. Having lots of cuddles with my gorgeous Scamp and Juno. Also coming soon: chemo hats - the patterns. For now, much love, Cathy xx. Kellys followers and other members of the Irish literary community offered supportive responses to the news. Fellow author Edel Coffey wrote on Instagram: So sorry to hear this Cathy. I hope you make a full and fast recovery. Sending all the love and good thoughts. Scottish writer Jenny Colgan said: Oh Cathy, I am so sorry to hear that. Wishing you strength and fortitude and sending lots and lots of love. An author of more than 20 books, her first novel Woman to Woman became an international bestseller following its release in 1997. A former journalist, Kelly previously wrote an advice column for the Sunday World, before leaving journalism in 2001. In an emotional victim impact statement Mr Boggs mother told the court: "We are broken forever". A CAVAN man working in Australia has been jailed for eight years after a drunk driving crash in which his 18-year Irish passenger was killed. Mark Doughty had pleaded guilty in August to dangerous driving following the tragic incident that claimed the life of 18-year-old Derry student Max Boggs in June last year. Yesterday at Warrnambool County Court, the 26-year-old was sentenced to eight years and two months in prison for the south-west Victorian crash, as reported by ABC news. In an emotional victim impact statement Mr Boggs mother told the court: "We are broken forever". It emerged Doughty had already been banned from driving after a drink driving incident in Western Australia in February 2022 and didnt have a valid driver's license at the time of the crash. Doughty pleaded guilty at a hearing in August to culpable driving causing death, negligent driving causing serious injury, and driving under the influence of alcohol. Just hours before he had been due to catch a flight back to Ireland Doughty had failed to stop at a stop sign on a country road in Cobden on June 5, 2022. He smashed into a car driven by a local bartender who had served him alcohol earlier that night. His work mate, Max Boggs was in the passenger seat and died at the scene. Another young Irish farm worker in the car driven by Doughty, and the bartender driving the other vehicle, were also injured. The trial judge told Doughty his actions had caused the death of Mr Boggs, a much-loved young man with a bright future. Other people were deeply affected by the crash including Mr Boggs' family, first responders, and the injured bartender, he added. He said Doughty developed a drinking problem while in Australia and he should not drink in the future, but that he has good prospects of rehabilitation. At an earlier court hearing on September 27, the court heard Doughty, and the two young farm workers had been drinking at a bar on the night of the crash. Doughty had a flight booked back to Ireland the next morning and at midnight he drove the two other men back to his home so he could pack his bags and watch TV. But following complaints about noise from Doughty's housemate, Doughty drove back to Cobden with the two younger men. In dark and wet conditions he failed to stop at a stop sign at an intersection resulting in the collision. Tests showed Doughty's blood alcohol level well above the legal blood alcohol concentration and none of the men in the vehicle were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. Read more Farm worker pleads guilty to causing crash death of Irish teenager in Australia Family of Derry teen Max Boggs killed in Australia crash 'totally broken' Mr Boggs was thrown from the vehicle and died at the scene, while the other Irish worker suffered a broken jaw, pelvis, and six ribs. Doughty said he had very little memory of the crash or the aftermath, and at the time he said he did not know who was driving the vehicle. In her victim impact statement the bartender said her enjoyment of life had been reduced drastically due to injuries sustained during the crash. Mx Boggs mother, Rhonda Connell, said in her victim impact statement her son's death had a lasting impact on her. "Our only son Max was taken from us by an act of complete recklessness. She said her son, who had only been in Australia for five weeks, wanted to go to Australia to explore and do what he loved. She said words could not describe the despair she felt hearing her son had been killed in a car accident on the other side of the world, and the image of him in his coffin was burned into his family's minds. "We are broken forever". Heartfelt tributes appeared on-line last year when news of the tragedy broke. Max's father, Ryan, wrote : "Max, you weren't just my son, you were my right arm, my best friend and my first born. "You made me proud every day. [You were the] best big brother ever. Love you, son. Sleep well." The City of Derry Young Farmers' Club said it was "deeply saddened" to hear of the death. "Max was a popular young man in our rural community and will be sorely missed by all," they stated at the time. Eglinton Primary School, which Max attended as a boy, expressed "great sadness" after learning of the death of the former pupil. A spokesperson for the school said: "We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to his entire family, and in particular his siblings and family members in school." The City of Derry Rugby Club also passed on its condolences to Max's grieving parents. The club said: "Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time." Reading the case in the paper it just felt very close to what happened with us, Andrew says ANDREW McGinley, who was left devastated after his three children were killed by their mother in January 2020, says his heart goes out to Darren Coleman, whose only child died in similar circumstances. The Dublin District Coroners Court heard this week that Mr Colemans wife, Nicola Keane (34), who also took her own life as well as the life of their seven-month-old baby son in October 2020, had told doctors at Childrens Health Ireland in Crumlin just three months before that she was worried she might "do something. This week, a jury of six females and one male returned a majority 6-1 verdict of medical misadventure in relation to Ms Keanes death. The jury separately returned a unanimous narrative verdict in relation to baby Henry who they said had died from ingesting drugs which he had not been prescribed. The jurors recommended that a post-natal depression programme should be built into ante-natal courses for both parents. They also recommended the provision of mother and baby in-patient units in hospitals, if they were not already available. Nicola Keane and her husband Darren Coleman. Photo: Colin Keegan/Collins Dublin. Reading the case in the paper it just felt very close to what happened with us. I dont personally know Darren, but my thoughts are with him and whatever support I can give to him, Id be happy to do so, Andrew tells the Sunday World. The body of Mr Colemans wife, Nicola Keane a 34-year-old paediatric nurse from Ballina, Co Mayo, was found off the M50 Westlink bridge in the early hours of October 22, 2020. When Mr Coleman was woken a short time later by gardai who called to the couples home at Shackleton Way, Lucan, Co Dublin, he discovered their seven-month-old son, Henry, in an unresponsive state in a spare bedroom. The baby boy was pronounced dead shortly after being brought to Childrens Health Ireland at Crumlin. Mr Keane told the inquest he had never been contacted by any medical staff who treated his wife for her mental health issues. He said it would scare me if he had known his wife had told doctors that she might harm their son. He said he would never have considered returning to his teaching job if he had known she had said something like that. Darren Coleman also told the court that he had endured a three-year wait as the only member of my family alive to speak to voice his concerns about the care his wife had received for post-natal depression and the lack of information he was given by her doctors about her condition. Andrew McGinley and wife Deirdre with children Conor, Darragh and Carla McGinley Speaking today, Andrew McGinley says: The details of this tragic case are scarily familiarhearing that he wasnt informed about his wifes mental state, just like in my case, you are just left with no opportunity to protect your kids. In May 2021, Andrew McGinleys wife Deirdre Morley was found not guilty of the murder of their children Conor (9), Darragh (7) and Carla (3) at the family home in Newcastle, Co Dublin, by reason of insanity. The courageous dad is currently fighting for change in mental health policies to ensure that a co-parent is informed of mental health concerns involving the other parent. At the moment, information is not shared because of patient confidentiality. This all has to change, especially where there are co-parents involved, he says. Once there is a co-parent, there cant be anything other than full disclosure. There is Children First legislation and children arent being put first at the moment. Ive always said had I known what a lot of the clinicians knew, when they knew it, then Conor, Darragh and Carla would be alive today. The Children First legislation dictates that the care and protection of children, the best interest of a child, should be paramount and supersedes everything else, and I believe that includes patient confidentiality. What Im doing now is hopefully trying to give the children of the future a better chance of survival and for the other parent that is left behind to be given the opportunity to maintain their primary responsibility to care for their children. In one way, I believe mental health treatment in Ireland has only moved one step forward from performing lobotomies. Theres no treatment consideration other than medication in the vast majority of cases, and thats not right. For me being left uninformed I was put at ease rather than put on guard. In Children First legislation, parents and guardians have the primary responsibility for the care and protection of their children, so if the clinicians are aware that one parent or one guardian cannot maintain that primary responsibility then they have to be informing, helping and supporting the other parent. Andrew adds that this issue should be treated with the same urgency and importance as road deaths. I have huge sympathy for anybody who has lost a loved one in a road accident and has to deal with the suddenness, the brutalness (sic) of such a horrendous tragedy in their lives, he says. Because of the large number of road deaths there is action being takenthey are reducing speed limits, introducing more speed checks. And yet statistics tell us that three children will probably die this year at the hands of their parents, where that parent is in treatment for their mental health. Yet nothing is being done about this. Leo Varadkar said recently in a report that he wanted to make Ireland the best country in Europe to be a child. Well, giving them an opportunity to actually survive would be a good start. If you are affected by any issue in this article, please contact Pieta House on 1800-247247 or the Samaritans can be contacted 24/7 on freephone 116 123 or e-mail jo@samaritans.ie The television is smashed, phones, everything is smashed A Dublin mum has pleaded for help for her uncontrollable autistic son. Sue McAuley, from Inchicore, described how one of her twin sons, Frankie, is effectively housebound and cannot go to school due to his disorder. He hasnt been to school in a year, Sue said. He just cant manage it, as he has become too aggressive for that. And its war zone here too, to be honest with you. My child doesnt even get to go outside the door. The child does not get washed, he does not get dressed, he has no access to school. Sue explained that Frankies problems have become so volatile that the family needs immediate help. Sue explained. Only for a behavioural psychologist who comes to the house once a week, thats the only service I have. I need a psychiatrist to assess him, and he needs OT (occupational therapist) in speech and language. He needs multi-disciplinary help, basically. Ive been accepted (for assessment) by CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service) but I dont receive any assistance from them. Ive even had Tusla (the Child and Family Agency) out to the house but I havent heard back from them since. I need help, she added, this is a crisis. I dont know what to do, basically. I get punched and kicked 100 times a day. And the television is smashed, phones, everything is smashed. So, I really need someone to step in and help here. I just think that he needs some medication to balance it out. For a six-year-old he has no life, and he doesnt deserve it. But the world is just too tough for him to handle at the minute. Im at the end of my tether, not with him, but Im at the end of my tether because I dont know what else to do. Sues plight was highlighted by a friend in an Instagram post that reads in part: This is our friend Sue and her twin boys Frankie and Bowie. She is absolutely desperate for help for Frankie. Unfortunately the regular routes that families take when their children need help havent worked so far and our friend is broken trying to help her child. If anyone has any contacts in the HSE, Cahms, TDs, journos - ANYTHING AT ALL that could help - please share for Sue. Sue said that if she could get a private psychiatrist tomorrow, I wouldnt need CAMHS or anyone else. If I could go private, if someone rang me today about that post (on Instagram) and offered me private help, Id jump at it. Thats what that was post is really aimed at, to get us help. Ive already spent thousands and thousands of euro and up to just a few months ago I was spending 300 euro a week on speech and therapy. But I need CAMHS to step up here and help. Although not believed to be life threatening, the injuries received in this barbaric act will have a significant impact on the victim and he will undoubtedly live with the trauma of what has happened to him A man shot in Belfast has been left with significant injuries, the Sunday World has learned. Police are appealing for information after a report that a man was shot three times in the legs in the Divismore Crescent area shortly after 9pm on Wednesday, September 27. Neighbourhood Inspector Roisin Brown said: Officers attended the scene along with our colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service. The victim aged in his 20s, was taken to hospital for treatment. Although not believed to be life-threatening, the injuries received in this barbaric act will have a significant impact on the victim and he will undoubtedly live with the trauma of what has happened to him. Everyone has the right to live their life free from the threat of violence and this brutal attack by people who violate the human rights of others must be universally condemned. We live in a democratic society where there is no justification for this. Those responsible brutalise their own communities and others through intimidation and violence. Police enquiries are ongoing and we should appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time and saw anything, or who may be in possession of CCTV, dashcam or other footage, to contact us on 101 quoting reference 1902 of 27/9/23. Reports can be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form here. Sunday World enquiries last night revealed the injured man was believed to be from the Bawnmore area of Newtownabbey, where he is well known. Footage circulating on social media show the victim was shot on spare ground adjacent to a republican monument honouring IRA members from the Ballymurphy area who died in the conflict. Paramedics opened a large black umbrella to provide a degree of privacy for the injured man while he was being treated prior to removing him from the scene. On September 29 each year New Zealand Police commemorates Police Remembrance Day, when we honour and remember colleagues now lost to us. This date is the feast day of the Archangel Michael, patron saint of police. Each year a national service is held to honour our police colleagues in New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific, who have been killed by criminal acts while performing their official duties or died as a result of their duties. We also acknowledge serving, retired and former New Zealand Police staff who have passed away in the preceding 12 months. Commissioner Andrew Coster will attend the service today along with the Governor-General Her Excellency the Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro and the Minister of Police the Hon Ginny Andersen. Police officers killed by criminal acts while performing their official duties will be remembered in the New Zealand Police Roll of Honour read out as part of the commemoration as we remember and acknowledge their ultimate sacrifice. The national Remembrance Day service held at the Royal New Zealand Police College (RNZPC) will be livestreamed on the Police website, the New Zealand Police Facebook page and shared on the New Zealand Police Museum Facebook page from 11am on Friday September 29. The livestreaming will be recorded and will remain on the Facebook pages and website to watch after the service. On Police Remembrance Day and the week leading up to it, Police staff throughout New Zealand wear the huia pin which was developed by the Police Association and New Zealand Police. The tail plumage of the huia bird now lost to us is something rare and special and to wear it is considered by Maori to be a great honour. By incorporating the Police chevron into the huia tail feather, the design of the pin symbolises the honouring of someone special, now lost to police. School students are getting a jump on the rest of the country and heading to the polls with a mock election. About 115,000 children, at 775 schools are voting for the same parties standing in the general election, plus the candidates from their local electorates. The Electoral Commission has given schools ballot boxes, voting booths and voting papers to make the experience as realistic as possible. At Remuera Intermediate School, Sameer was in charge of keeping the kids lined up as they came to take part. "You go in, get your voting paper then you go vote. Put your vote in the ballot box." Norah is on the publicity team and asked them whether teenagers should be allowed to vote. "They think teenagers don't have rights to vote in the future because they don't have a full mind of what's going on when voting and some people say 'yes teenagers should vote'." Maelee says she was looking forward to exercising her democratic right when she turned 18. "I think more youth when they get to that age, as well as Maori and Pasifika, should vote more because there is a big percentage that is not voting." Teacher Julie Miller says 21 students from years 7 and 8 took six weeks to plan out their 'election day'. "We know that the earlier we teach kids about anything the more involved they'll be. Running it like this, where they can actually be a part of planning it, be a part of practising voting in a mock election means they're a lot more prepared and engaged in the future," she says. Electoral Commission deputy chief executive operations Anusha Guler says there was generally a low uptake of youth in the elections. "The earlier you start with creating an awareness of elections and the power of the vote, it gets them more involved in the process." The students says they would not have been as engaged in the election without the Kids Voting programme. Riaan, Lila and Jiu says they had learned how Parliament worked, how a government was chosen and that the public was free to vote for anyone standing. Deciding the leader of the country was really important, Luka says, and is "something most people should do". Sawyer says he liked learning about what views and morals they shared with the parties and who the local candidates were. As to who they're voting for, Sameer and William were not giving anything away. "I think all the candidates are good. Everyone is good," says Sameer. "I'm considering options," replied William. The results of the student's voting will not be released until after the election. - Emma Stanford/RNZ. Tauranga is rapidly moving and grooving to the warm, sensual, expressive and tropical rhythms of dance styles like Kizomba, Bachata, Sala and Zouk. And the city is getting a reputation for being one of the best places in New Zealand to learn and enjoy these genres of exotic partner dancing. Take for example the four day Bay Salsa Festival happening in the middle of next month October. Salsa is a Latin dance, a mixture of Cuban dances like the mambo, pachanga and rumba as well as American dances like swing and tap. We expect to have around 300 people participating in classes each day and enjoying performances every night, says festival coordinator, Karen Saunders. That will make it the second biggest festival of its kind in New Zealand. All Tauranga is invited to learn something new or improve their styles, says Karen. But the most important thing is to have fun with friends and whanau while supporting our dance community. Photo: Juan Cortes. Kizomba is often referred to as the African Tango, it originates from Angola, but has captured the hearts of dance enthusiasts worldwide, including those right here in Tauranga. Theres a three day Kizomba Summer Fest happening at Otumoetai College from January 19, next year. New Zealand and Tauranga came under the gaze of the international dance community when we participated in the international Ginga Flashmob 2023 contest organized for the World Kizomba Project. It wasnt just the love of dance, says Becky Wilde who led the Tauranga group to Ginga Flash Mob. It was aimed at encouraging girls and women to express themselves and to empower them. Also to help communities through the dance, according Becky who is founder and director of Te Whare Kanikani (The House of Dance Tauranga). Festivals like Bays Salsa, and the Kizomba Summer Fest have all attracted dance teachers and passionate dancers from around New Zealand and even overseas. The Bay Salsa Festival will feature Salsa, Bachata Kizomba and Zouk workshops, parties and performances. And its rapidly growing in popularity. What started out as a one off event in 2006 has turned into one of New Zealands favorite salsa events of the year, says Karen Saunders. The first Bay Salsa Festival was run as a way of financially supporting the New Zealand Youth Salsa Team with their travels. This quickly turned into an annual fundraising event. For more info about the Bay salsa Festival visit https://www.baysalsafestival.co.nz/. The colours and cultures of India will be on show this weekend as thousands attend the Te Puke Sikh Parade on Saturday, September 30. "The street parade is held by the Bay of Plenty Sikh Society and is part of their annual celebrations of the first Sikh Guru," says an event spokesperson. "In its fourth year, the parade is expected to retain its unofficial title as one of the towns most spectacular events. "The expected 3000 attendees will be led by Sewadars, sweepers of the parade, who walk in front to ensure the path is clean for the principal scripture of Sikhism, Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The parade will go through the streets of Te Puke before heading to Gurudwara Temple at Centennial Park to continue celebrations, including free food and drinks for all attendees. It is expected that Sikhs from around the Bay of Plenty and further afield will travel to participate in the event." Lehmber Singh, Secretary of the Bay of Plenty Sikh Society says, The Sikh community has put in hours of work to organise the parade and a Diwali Festival later this year. Were excited to host others to share our culture with them. We are proud to showcase the Gurudwara as a space and invite the community to experience some of our culture, says Lehmber, There will be opportunities to see and have a go at Kalarippayattu, one of the oldest and most scientific martial arts in the world and enjoy some traditional foods and drinks. "After 2018s great response from local communities, the Bay of Plenty Sikh Society has continued to host their cultural events each year. The benefits of bringing local communities together to experience the Sikh Parade and Diwali Festival have allowed other communities to understand Sikh culture better," says the event spokesperson. "The Tauranga Western Bay Community Event Fund supported this event and the Diwali Festival, which will take place later this year on 12th November 2023. The fund aims to support inclusion as well as enrich the lives of our communities. The $30,000 granted to event organisers is helping ensure the events can be organised to a high level. "Diwali is the Hindu Festival of Lights. Sikhs celebrate this festival and call it Bandi Shod Diwas, which is celebrated by lighting up the homes and Sikh temples. The Te Puke Diwali Festival will involve a fireworks display for the wider community come Summer and attendees will be invited back to Gurudwara to experience traditions and enjoy the festival celebrations which are free and open to everyone." These events are great displays of colour and culture, showing the diversity of our region and the significance of traditions, says Alastair Rhodes, Chief Executive of BayTrust. Tauranga and the Western Bay are multicultural societies, and we are proud to support events that showcase different cultures to the wider community to make everyone feel at home within the Western Bay, says Alastair. Irene Quirante Malaga Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram An Irish pub was burned to the ground after being gutted by a huge blaze in Mijas in the early hours of this Thursday morning, 28 September. The Harp Bar, located on Avenida de Espana in Calahonda , was destroyed by the flames, which startled residents in the area at around 5.20am. After the alarm was raised, the 112 Andalucia emergency services control room quickly mobilised the fire brigade, as well as the Local Police and Guardia Civil. Explosions were heard and a huge plume of smoke rose from the fire as emergency services rushed to the scene to try to put out the blaze. Harp Bar owner Zoltan Eisenberger reported to the Guardia Civil on Thursday that a private security camera had recorded images of a hooded individual approaching the premises between 5 and 5.30am that morning. In the crime report, seen by SUR in English, the owner stated that the individual was carrying a can that apparently contained fuel. The footage then shows a flash and the individual running from the scene, according to the statement. The images are now in the hands of the Guardia Civil. The management of the bar posted a message on social media following the "terrible incident" and promising "we will rebuild our wonderful little bar and make it even better than before." The message, in full, read... "It is with heavy hearts that we share some devastating news. Our beloved Harp Bar has recently experienced a terrible incident, resulting in its destruction by fire. We are truly heartbroken by this unfortunate event, as the Harp Bar held a special place in our hearts and in the community. "However, we want to assure you that we are not giving up. We are determined to come together as a team and rebuild our wonderful little bar, making it even better than before. Your ongoing support and encouragement mean the world to us, and we are grateful for the outpouring of love we have already received. "During this challenging time, we will be working tirelessly to assess the damage, plan the rebuilding process, and navigate the necessary steps to bring back the Harp Bar. We promise to keep you updated on our progress and any future developments. "We want to express our deepest gratitude to all of you who have been a part of our Harp Bar family. Your loyalty and friendship have been invaluable, and we are confident that with your continued support, we will rise from the ashes and create new memories together. "Please stay tuned for further updates through our social media page. We appreciate your understanding, patience, and unwavering support during this difficult period. "Thank you from the bottom of our hearts." President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has today laid a foundation stone for the 4th residential complex in the city of Zangilan. The head of state was informed about the complex. The residential complex has a total area of 2 hectares. In accordance with the approved Master plan, it is planned to build 3-storey, 4-storey and 5-storey buildings comprised of 131 apartments in the residential complex. President Ilham Aliyev laid the foundation stone for the fourth residential complex. PRAGUE, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- The Czech government has approved a plan to purchase 24 U.S. F-35 fighter jets, it was announced on Wednesday. The country's Ministry of Defense said the state will pay a total of 150 billion Czech crowns (6.48 billion U.S. dollars) for the jets. This makes it one of the most expensive purchases in the history of the Czech Republic. Currently, the country is renting 14 Gripen jets from Sweden, but this lease should expire by 2027, according to local media. The first F-35 aircraft from the new order should be available to the Czech Republic in 2029, and the last in 2035. While some opposition political parties view this purchase as an excessive expenditure at a time when the state budget needs stabilizing, army representatives say it is necessary. Meanwhile, Defense Minister Jana Cernochova said, "I can guarantee that other modernization projects of the Army of the Czech Republic are not threatened by this project, on the contrary, they complement each other with regard to the capabilities being built." The move will have positive effects on domestic industry, the minister added. Up to 14 projects related to the purchase are planned, and these should involve Czech companies. Also on Wednesday, the Czech government approved a draft state budget for next year, with a deficit of 252 billion Czech crowns. The country's defense spending, totaling nearly 160 billion Czech crowns, will exceed 2 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) for the first time in 2024, according to the ministry. (1 U.S. dollar = 23.16 Czech crowns) Current Print Subscribers will be prompted to either login to their current site user account or to create a new one. A confirmation email will be sent when a new user account is created, which must be confirmed within three days in order to provide uninterrupted online access through your Print Subscription. Once the email address is confirmed please provide your Account Number to activate your Print Subscription Service. Laundry challenges, it seems, come in every size, shape, and intensity. Rather than thinking there is no solution for that stain, shrunken item or another laundry disaster, consider the ways you can recover and renew situations gone bad. SHRUNKEN Dont be too quick to toss out that favorite sweater that just got shrunk in the hot wash or went through the dryer accidentally set to hot. Chances are good you can unshrink it if you move quickly: In a large container, make a solution with 1 gallon lukewarm water and 2 tablespoons baby shampoo. Soak the shrunken garment in the solution for about 10 minutes until totally saturated. Now, the important part: Dont rinse! Simply blot out all the excess water with a dry towel and very gently lay it flat on a fresh towel. Reshape slowly and carefully as you stretch it back to its original size. Dry away from direct sunlight or heat. This technique will work provided the fibers have not become permanently damaged, or felted. READ MORE: Everyday Cheapskate: Are credit and debit cards making us fat? SUPER STAINS Youve washed and dried that item dozens of times and still the ugly grease or other annoying stain hangs on. Before you toss it out, try one more thing, Lestoil. Its been around like forever, but so few people know about it. Lestoil, an all-purpose, heavy-duty oil and grease remover, has been manufactured right here in the USA for decades. Lestoil can be used full-strength on stains, especially really difficult stains -- the kind of stains you just give up on like ink, toner, grease, oil, scuff marks, blood, lipstick, nail polish, paint, grass stains, coffee stains, crayon and marker stains on every surface you can imagine. Even the sticky stuff left behind by stickers and labels. While not only for laundry, Lestoil is a laundry rooms best friend and has removed every old stain Id given up on as well as every new stain Ive acquired since the two of us met -- especially on clothing. MELTED-ON CRAYON STAINS With so many restaurants giving the kids crayons to keep them occupied while waiting for the meal to arrive, its handy to know how to remove crayon stains from clothes that have inadvertently made their way through both the washer and dryer. With so many restaurants giving the kids crayons to keep them occupied while waiting for the meal to arrive, we have had to learn how to remove crayons from clothes that have inadvertently made their way through both the washer and dryer. Melted-on crayon can be removed by first applying WD-40 to the area, working it into the stain with your fingers. Once the WD-40 has begun to break down the petroleum base of the crayon, apply concentrated detergent to remove both the stain and the WD-40. Put back into the washer and launder as usual. It works like a charm. YELLOW ARMPIT STAINS Armpit stains on white T-shirts are caused by the reaction between antiperspirant ingredients and the salts in human sweat. Most antiperspirants contain aluminum compounds to reduce wetness. It is the aluminum that causes the buildup and yellowing on fabrics. The stains dont appear overnight, but without proper washing of shirts after each wearing, the stains will start to show, and the show will be yellow on white shirts. In a small jar or bowl, make a mixture of 1 part Dawn and 2 parts hydrogen peroxide. Then sprinkle baking soda over the stain, and with an old toothbrush or bristle brush, scrub the areas well. Allow to sit for at least an hour, then launder as usual. SMELLY TOWELS If your bath linens have become dingy gray, stiff, scratchy and super smelly, chances are very good its the result of the buildup of detergents and fabric softeners that have not been rinsed out properly. That together with damp, moist conditions can produce a breeding ground for bacteria. No wonder youve got a big, gross, smelly laundry problem. You are going to use white vinegar and baking soda to fix this skanky problem once and for all. But not together. This will be a two-step process. Vinegar contains acetic acid that breaks down mineral deposits and dissolves the buildup of detergent and fabric softeners. Baking soda is alkaline and breaks down dirt and grease, and neutralizes odors. Used together, they counteract each other. For this process, we want them to do their work independently. This will strip the residue, leaving them fresh and able to absorb more water again. WASH NO. 1 Load towels into the washer loosely. Set it for a long wash cycle and fill with the hottest water you can manage. Turn the water heater up to 140 F for this event. Or boil water on the stovetop, then carefully transport it to the washer. The point is that the water must be very hot to kill the bacteria. Add 2 cups of white vinegar to the load. Allow it to run the entire cycle, then leave the towels in the washer. WASH NO. 2 Fill the machine once more with the hottest water possible. This time, add 1 cup baking soda. Run the entire cycle. Whether you hang the towels outdoors or put them in the dryer, make sure they are completely and thoroughly dry. Now smell them. If they do not smell fabulously clean, repeat Wash No. 1 and Wash No. 2 as necessary until the smell is completely gone. The investment youve made in these towels makes them worth the effort. Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at Ask Mary. This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book Debt-Proof Living. COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS.COM Oswego, N.Y. Jordan Brooks mom, Lisa Waldron, was sentenced to 20 years in state prison today for the death of her 17-year-old disabled son. Jordan died from sepsis and malnutrition in May 2021. He weighed only 55 pounds when he died, an average weight for a kid half his age. Investigations revealed Jordan had many open, bleeding sores. According to a state report, his tailbone was exposed and his hip implant was visible through his skin. Waldron, 43, and her husband, Anthony Waldron, 46, of Palermo, were charged in July 2022 with second-degree murder and first-degree assault. Judge Armen J. Nazarian Thursday morning sentenced Lisa Waldron to 20 years in prison. She had pleaded guilty to second-degree manslaughter and first-degree assault. She did not speak during the court proceeding. Courtney Venditte, senior assistant district attorney, said in court that no one was there to speak on behalf of Jordan. The people that should have been providing him with the love he deserves are the people charged with his murder, she said, noting the case had been pretty horrific. He should not have had to endure that, she said. When Lisa Waldron pleaded guilty, Venditte said she thought the mother had remorse. The prosecutor said she no longer believes that. Pseudo acceptance of responsibility couched by excuses couched by blaming other people, Venditte described her behavior. She noted Lisa Waldron behaved as if she was the victim. Outside the courtroom, Venditte said that Lisa Waldron blamed many people, including the school and the county Department of Social Services. The prosecutor said she wished she knew Jordan, that everyone spoke highly of him. We cant bring Jordan back, she said. Theres nothing thats going to be enough. Lisa Waldron has already been sentenced to two years in federal prison for stealing the teens disability checks. As a representative, Lisa Waldron was legally required to use the money from the benefits for Jordans care. She instead used the money for unrelated expenses. After Jordans death, she used the checks to pay for fast food purchases and a trip to Myrtle Beach, federal prosecutors said. She will serve the state prison time after the federal prison sentence. Anthony Waldron was in court today to watch his wifes sentencing. He was wearing a green shirt that said Lucky. His case is set to go to trial in October. Anthony Waldron walks to court for the sentencing of his wife, Lisa, in the Oswego County Courthouse on Thursday Sept. 28, 2023. (N.Scott Trimble | strimble@syracuse.com) Before Jordans death teachers and school staff in the Mexico school district reached out to Oswego County Child Protective Services multiple times, begging for help for the teen. The teen told teachers his parents would leave him in his chair at the front door in his winter coat, to just roll him to the bus the next day. School staff left marks on his diaper to see if it was changed while he was at home. It wasnt. School staff would go above and beyond for Jordan, washing his clothes, brushing his teeth and covering his filthy wheelchair cushion with garbage bags to keep it dry. They ate lunch with him to make sure he could swallow. Tim Thelen was Jordans special education teacher for sixth grade in the Liverpool school district. Jordan was in the district from 2012 to 2017. Thelen said the teachers there were afraid to send Jordan home for winter and spring breaks. We would have the bedsores on the mend and then February break, hed come back and they were right back where they were, he said. He said Jordans wheelchair would be soaked with urine. Once, they saw what appeared to be a hand mark on his face. Another time, his glasses were broken. Sometimes he would cry when they lifted him out of his wheelchair because it irritated his bed sores. Despite it all Jordan - who never got an obituary - was a happy kid, Thelen said. He was just cheery and smiley and just wonderful and now Im thinking, that poor kid was in agony probably, suffering terribly, he said. Lisa Waldron was arraigned on charges of second-degree murder and first-degree assault in the death of her son Jordan Brooks on Monday, July 25, 2022. (Courtesy Oswego County Sheriff's Office) More Syracuse.com | The Post-Standard coverage: 15 1 / 15 The life and death of Jordan Brooks Oswego County couple charged in death of 17-year-old son with cerebral palsy, deputies say Oswego County couple jailed on charges they killed teen son who has cerebral palsy Child abuse complaints made before Oswego teen died of neglect, sheriff says Teachers kept warning about the failing health of Jordan Brooks until the day he died Parents accused of killing son with cerebral palsy released on bail, deputies say Central NY teachers, aides who tried to save Jordan Brooks life to gather for vigil State: Oswego County social services failed Jordan Brooks, who police say died of neglect and malnutrition Days before Jordan Brooks died, Oswego County criticized for mishandling case of baby girl who died Oswego DSS head: We are doing all we can to assure a death like Jordan Brooks never happens again Jordan Brooks case: Neglect complaints in 2 states, 3 counties in 11 years, but danger remained 100 gather for vigil for Jordan Brooks: His smile could light up this town Oswego County considers independent probe of DSS after Jordan Brooks death Oswego County hires outside firm to investigate DSS, child fatalities after death of Jordan Brooks Mom charged with killing Jordan Brooks accused of stealing his disability checks after his death Jordan Brooks mom sentenced to federal prison for stealing dead teens disability benefits Staff writer Rylee Kirk covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, story idea, photo, question or comment? Reach her at 315-396-5961, on Twitter @kirk_rylee, or rkirk@syracuse.com. BERLIN, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- China is ready to work with Germany to further strengthen law enforcement and security dialogue and exchanges to enrich and consolidate the China-Germany all-round strategic partnership, Chen Wenqing, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, has said. Chen, also head of the Commission for Political and Legal Affairs of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks while addressing the opening of the 4th China-Germany high-level security dialogue held here on Tuesday. China has always attached great importance to and actively supported law enforcement and security cooperation between the two countries, Chen said, adding that the China-Germany high-level security dialogue mechanism has contributed to safeguarding the common security interests of both countries. Acting on the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, China stands ready to work with Germany to further strengthen law enforcement and security dialogue and exchanges to enrich and consolidate the China-Germany all-round strategic partnership, and make positive contributions to building a community of universal security. Chen expressed the hope that China and Germany will join hands to give full play to the strategic guidance role of the high-level security dialogue and effectively implement the cooperation consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries in security fields. Calling for strengthening top-level design, highlighting strategic coordination and improving cooperation mechanisms, Chen said both sides should focus on real threats, pay attention to potential risks and promote cooperation and innovative development. He also called for promoting mutual trust, dispelling doubts, and striving to inject stability and certainty into the development of bilateral relations. Wolfgang Schmidt, head of Germany's Federal Chancellery, also attended the opening and delivered a speech. After the opening ceremony, professional exchanges were conducted. Relevant authorities from both countries engaged in candid and in-depth talks on such topics as counter-terrorism, cyberspace and economy, and combating organized crimes, and resulted in consensus and achievements. CNY Arts is now accepting applications for the 2024 Grants for Regional Arts and Culture Engagement (GRACE) program, formerly known as the Decentralization Program. $510,000 in grant funding is available for 2024 arts, culture, and heritage projects through a competitive, peer-reviewed panel process. GRACE offers resources to individual artists and not-for-profit organizations to support the arts, culture, and heritage sector in Central New York. Funding for the 2024 program is made possible by a special State Senate Initiative and administered through the New York State Council on the Arts. Artists and not-for-profit organizations located in Cortland, Madison, Herkimer, Oneida, Onondaga, and Oswego counties are encouraged to apply. Its an honor to regrant these vital funds to our artists and cultural institutions through a vetted, local decision-making process, said Stephen Butler, executive director of CNY Arts. We are deeply grateful to our representatives in the New York State Legislature for securing and increasing grant funding for the second consecutive year. The GRACE program offers support to individual artists, teaching artists, nonprofit arts, culture, and heritage organizations, collectives, and select human service programs in Central New York, including eligible counties in the Adirondack and Mohawk Valley regions. Grant tiers range from $1,000, $5,000, and $10,000 depending on category and qualifications. Awards may be used for artist fees, equipment rentals and purchases, project materials, marketing, or capacity-building initiatives. This years program prioritizes inclusivity, emphasizing demographic and geographic diversity, and support for projects that employ artists and engage audiences from historically marginalized communities. GRACE funding is competitive, and all submissions will be reviewed by a regional panel of creative peers, community leaders, arts administrators, educators, and artists representing a variety of disciplines. The application deadline for the GRACE program is Wednesday, Nov. 15 at noon. Awards will be announced on or before Dec. 22. Funding may be used to implement proposed projects throughout 2024. For more information about these grant opportunities, including eligibility guidelines, visit the CNY Arts website at www.cnyarts.org/grants, or contact the CNY Arts regrant programs team at 315-435-2162. Its no secret that New Yorks legal cannabis rollout has taken far longer than most expected. Its no secret that licensees especially growers have put millions of dollars into businesses that they are currently unable to fully operate. And its barely a secret that some licensees who are struggling to generate revenue amid a court-ordered shutdown of new dispensaries are operating in the unlicensed market in New York and other states. Theres been a lot of talk about stuff going out the back door, or people having separate hustles, said Brittany Carbone, co-founder of Adult-Use Conditional Cultivator Tricolla Farms, and a board member of the Cannabis Association of New York. Nearly two years after New Yorks Cannabis Control Board held its first meeting, the states efforts to design and launch a legal marijuana market have been, more or less, disastrous. Licensed growers are sitting on thousands of pounds of unsold weed they grew in anticipation of a robust retail market. Thats partly because only 23 CAURD dispensaries are operational roughly 170 fewer than Gov. Kathy Hochul pledged New Yorkers would see by now while hundreds of others are blocked from opening by a court injunction. To top it off, legal dispensaries are currently selling products containing extremely high levels of bacteria and mold. According to weed industry stakeholders interviewed by NY Cannabis Insider, the cascading problems are creating space and in many cases necessity for illegal activity that could largely undermine state efforts to create a regulated industry, as the cannabis community loses faith in the Office of Cannabis Management. Theyre painting things as, everythings OK and this is part of a plan, said Joshua Waterman, president of the Legacy Growers Association. None of us are going to put faith in the OCM unless we see accountability come from them. Sign up for the NY Cannabis Insider Newsletter Enter your email address to get exclusive reporting on NY's cannabis market delivered to your inbox: Some of the alleged illegal sales are flowing downstream from OCM programs, Waterman said. For example, the OCM launched a Compliance Training & Mentorship program earlier this year for legacy growers looking to go legal. Part of this program aimed to partner legacy growers with AUCC companies, so that the former could learn about compliance from the latter. But the program which some participants complained seemed geared toward dissuading them from applying for a license had an unintended effect in some cases, Waterman said. The partnerships resulted in at least some legacy growers helping some AUCC farmers set up illegal operations, said Waterman, who said he hasnt participated in such setups and declined to name people who are. Ironically, the intentions of the program have played out to be successful on the opposite side of the industry, Waterman said. I know people who were in the mentorship program who are helping out these farmers right now, and its a beneficial relationship for both of them but none of thats getting taxed. Additionally, some AUCC farmers already spent much of their money growing a harvest last year that they couldnt sell, and are now selling out-of-state weed rather than growing it, Waterman said. Because they cant grow and have a guarantee that theyre going to be able to sell that product its better to buy a smaller amount from a different state, and sell it but almost to order than it is to bet your whole bill-fold, Waterman said. I dont blame them for thinking that way, thats whats proved to happen last time, Waterman said. Additionally, the Cannabis Growers Showcase events which many in the industry consider a rare bright spot are selling weed grown by in-state legacy operators and out-of-state brands, Waterman said. Its a joke, said Waterman, who added that hes been approached by people trying to organize CGS events who were seeking legacy market products to sell at the showcases. Youre essentially letting people legally sell weed without any kind of structure. Carbone of Tricolla Farms said she doesnt know any specific licensees involved in selling out-of-state or legacy market weed, but that the dynamic has become a poorly kept secret, and that the line between legacy and legal is getting blurry in some cases. There definitely are certain licenses that also have people involved that have grows in other states that are notorious for oversupply and the influx of that oversupply into New Yorks unregulated stores, Carbone said. Some of the blurred lines could create confusion among customers, Carbone said. Some California brands are being sold legally in New York-licensed dispensaries via white labeling agreements with AUCCs and/or Adult-Use Conditional Processors, and also illegally in unlicensed smoke shops. Regulators should monitor this issue more closely, Carbone said, since it promotes the idea that unlicensed shops are legal and regulated like Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensaries. Look at these brands that are being sold all over the place, and then limit their ability to enter the legal market if theyre going to be operating like that, Carbone said. Its not clear whether BioTrack the seed-to-sale tracking system New York cannabis businesses must use by Nov. 1 will do much to change these dynamics, Carbone said. Especially considering that California uses a tracking system and products from legal companies in that state are currently flooding the New York market. The way OCM is rolling out the BioTrack system doesnt inspire much confidence, either, said Joann Kudrewicz, CEO of cultivation company Ravens View Genetics and chair of CANYs Cultivation Committee. Kudrewicz company started using BioTrack about a year ago, in preparation for when theyd be required to use it. Ravens View uses a general version of the software that doesnt allow the company to input all the information regulators want reported, Kudrewicz said. They have to create a template first before they roll it out, which it doesnt seem as though theyve done, said Kudrewicz, who said shes not aware of any backdoor selling among AUCCs. Here we go, another debacle, which is not going to help if there is this backdoor stuff happening. Theres also apparently at least one example of alleged imposters selling illegal products via social media that are posing as legal dispensaries. NY Cannabis Insider found a Telegram channel called Smacked World 420, which claims to be CAURD dispensary Smacked Village, that advertises sales for psilocybin mushrooms and California weed brands. Smacked Village owner and CEO Roland Conner did not respond to multiple calls, texts and emails from NY Cannabis Insider inquiring about the Telegram account. After NY Cannabis Insider reached out to OCM which declined to comment Conner posted on LinkedIn that an imposter was posing as Smacked Village on social media. There is an account pretending to be us, Conner wrote. They are mirroring our posts and using it to sell unlicensed products, while pretending to be Smacked Village. Carbone said shes seen an Instagram account that she suspects is an imposter posing as a licensed CAURD, but declined to say which one. The Instagram page included in its bio the CAURDs business name and license number, and sold products like Trips Ahoy, which violates both copyright laws and New York rules that prohibit marketing to children. They cant really be this careless, Carbone said. I wouldnt be surprised to find out thats an imposter account. Ultimately, Waterman said, the current situation doesnt leave much room for optimism regarding New Yorks legal market. A lot of licensees who wanted to participate in the legal weed industry are being pushed into illegal activity to make ends meet, leading to a loss of confidence in the regulated market, and a boon for the unregulated market. Theyve put the farmers in a corner where they have to sell on the traditional market to survive, Waterman said. Update: As of Friday afternoon, the woman was awake and speaking. Below is the original story from Thursday: Syracuse, N.Y. -- The woman who spent a night in her familys car days after being evicted from their North Side apartment is in very, very critical condition, according to Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick. The woman, Delilah Rodriguez, spent Tuesday night in a running car with her boyfriend, Joshua Rolon, and their daughter, Dlyla Rolon. The girl, who was almost 2, died. Rodriguez and her boyfriend were rushed to hospitals after the three were found unresponsive in the car Wednesday morning in a parking lot at the Grant Village apartment complex. Police suspect the family was sickened by carbon monoxide fumes leaking into the car as it ran to keep the family warm on the cold, early fall night. Temperatures that night dipped to 42 degrees. Fitzpatrick today told syracuse.com | The Post-Standard that carbon monoxide poisoning is still the theory, though hes waiting for autopsy results. Fitzpatrick also said there was no indication of drug use. Rolon is conscious but not very communicative, Fitzpatrick said. Providers are checking his cognitive abilities, the DA said. Rolon is at St. Josephs Hospital Health Center. Police said Thursday his condition is improving. Rodriguez is at Upstate University Hospital. Its heartbreaking, Fitzpatrick said. Joshua RolonProvided photo Rolon, Rodriguez and their child were evicted from their Elm Street apartment days earlier after not paying rent for months, according to their landlord and court papers. Rolon had told the landlord they were going to a shelter. But on Tuesday night, the three slept in a 19-year-old gray Honda Accord. Police found the family huddled together in the front seat of the car Wednesday morning, said Rolons half-brother Hector Santos, who spoke to Syracuse.com from his brothers hospital room. The court papers show that Rolon owed $1,450, his rent for April, May and June. The landlord, Serafina Pascarella, said the total was much more, but she didnt want to demand back rent from Rolon and his family. That old Honda was not safe, said Andrew Gleason, the tow truck driver who brought the car to the Syracuse Police Crime Lab. He said he noticed the car was broken at the catalytic converter when he unloaded it. There were straight engine fumes going into the car, Gleason said. Elizabeth Doran covers education, suburban government and development, breaking news and more. Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact her anytime 315-470-3012 or email edoran@syracuse.com By Brendan J. Lyons | Times Union, Albany Albany, N.Y. The state ethics commission conducted its first meeting on Wednesday following a state Supreme Court justices decision earlier this month that found the agency was created in violation of the state constitution and must suspend its work pending the outcome of any appeal. On Friday, the appellate division of state Supreme Court in Albany granted a temporary stay on the decision that was issued by state Supreme Court Justice Thomas Marcelle. The stay was issued after the attorney generals office had filed a notice of appeal and an emergency application for an order allowing the commission to continue functioning while the appeal is litigated. A permanent stay of the decision has not been granted. We regret any inconvenience this matter has caused to our regulated communities and appreciate their patience as the appeal proceeds, Frederick A. Davie, the commissions chairman, and Sanford A. Berland, the executive director, said in a statement. But there was no discussion of the court case in the public session of the committees meeting this week. The ruling by Marcelle was issued in a long-running court battle in which former Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo has fought against the ethics commissions efforts to investigate a $5 million deal that he received for writing a book about his administrations handling of the pandemic. The investigation has centered on allegations that Cuomo improperly used on-duty government staffers to help him research and write the book, which he denies. In his effort to head off that investigation, Cuomos attorneys have argued that the creation of the new ethics commission was flawed and the judge agreed although the decision is expected to eventually be reviewed by the Court of Appeals, New Yorks highest court. Marcelle determined that the commission was formed and assigned enforcement powers in violation of the constitution, in part, because it was not done through a constitutional amendment that would have required a vote of the people. He noted 11 commissioners although there are currently only nine are selected by an independent panel of law school deans who have sworn no oath to public office and pick the nominees through a secretive process. Our constitution, which so carefully allocates power among the three branches, will not permit those powers to be transferred to (an) independent commission amounting to an unsanctioned fourth branch of government, Marcelle wrote. Here, the Legislature has done by statute what was required to be done by constitutional amendment. The ethics commission was established by the Legislature and Hochul. Other independent state commissions, including the Independent Redistricting Commission and the Commission on Judicial Nomination, were authorized through constitutional amendments that allowed voters to decide on their creation, Marcelle noted. Over the next month, the attorney generals office and Cuomos attorneys are expected to file additional arguments on whether any duties the commission performs outside the scope of executive authority, including processing filings or issuing reports, should remain in place. Those arguments will proceed while the appellate case moves forward. The appellate division also is expected to rule on whether a permanent stay of Marcelles decision should be granted while the appeal is pending if the attorney generals office files a motion requesting a court order on that issue. Earlier this year, another state Supreme Court justice in Onondaga County ruled that the commission was created in line with the state constitution and that it was not improper for the final appointments to be made by a Independent Review Commission made up of the law school deans. That ruling came in a case in which Gary Lavine, an attorney and member of the states former ethics commission, had challenged a decision in which his nomination to the new commission by Senate Minority Leader Robert Ortt had been rejected by the review panel. Lavine, like Cuomo, had also argued that only the Senate has the power to execute advise and consent on appointments by the executive branch. Cuomos attorneys went a step further and argued that since most of the appointees to the new commission were nominated by the Legislature, comptroller and attorney general, it violates the separation of powers doctrine and makes it not truly an executive branch commission. Cuomos battle with the ethics commission stretches back more than a year. In August 2022, a state Supreme Court justice ruled against the former state ethics commission in an earlier court battle in which that commission sought to force the former governor to repay the $5.1 million he received for writing the book about his handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Acting state Supreme Court Justice Denise A. Hartmans 17-page ruling scuttled the actions of the former Joint Commission on Public Ethics which was disbanded a month before she issued the decision and also found the commission had violated due process when it sought to undo an earlier approval of the book deal by a staff attorney. ___ (c)2023 the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.) Visit the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.) at www.timesunion.com By Brendan J. Lyons | Times Union, Albany Albany, N.Y. Gun store owners in New York said there have been glitches in the states processing of background checks for ammunition purchases under a law that went into effect this month one of many new firearms statutes enacted last year that are being challenged in litigation that will be the subject of a conference Oct. 6 by the U.S. Supreme Court. The laws were enacted by the Democrat-controlled state Legislature a year ago in response to a ruling by the Supreme Court that threw out New Yorks century-old rules governing the ability of someone to carry a concealed firearm. The Legislatures action was part of a response to that ruling in an effort to increase scrutiny and heighten the requirements for someone purchasing or carrying a gun or buying ammunition. Critics have said the new laws were enacted as an attempt to make an end-run around the Supreme Courts earlier ruling. A gun store owner who asked not to be identified on Wednesday said in one instance this month a background check for a retired high-ranking State Police official who sought to purchase ammunition was denied. In another case, a top official with the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association was declined. A spokeswoman for the State Police issued a statement saying the National Instant Criminal Background Check System processes transactions immediately. However, some responses will take longer than others depending on the amount of research required. She said there is also an appeal process for someone whose background check does not get approved. In the case of the retired State Police member, the system listed miss click as the reason for the denial. The New York State Police will continue to update the NYS NICS system in order to provide an accurate and timely response, said Deanna Cohen, a spokeswoman for the State Police. Again, while some transactions are processed immediately, others require more research. Republican lawmakers have hailed the decision by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas to conference the case with the full court. The case involves a constitutional challenge of the state laws that were rushed through a year ago and included requirements for not only more comprehensive background checks but also mandatory firearm safety and live-fire training for individuals seeking to obtain concealed carry permits. The measures also prohibit gun owners with those permits from carrying a concealed weapon into locations such as schools, hospitals and government buildings. Earlier this month, additional measures went into effect under the 2022 legislation that includes requiring background checks for those purchasing ammunition or antique firearms in New York. The law also assesses fees for those transactions $2.50 for each ammunition background check and $9 for gun background checks. The money is supposed to be used to fund the system that processes the background checks. As governor, I took swift action to keep people safe following the Supreme Courts decision in Bruen to strike down our states century-old concealed carry law, Hochul said in a statement earlier this month. One year later, we are continuing to lead the nation in the fight against gun violence and saving lives. State Sen. Dan Stec, a Queensbury Republican, is among numerous Republican lawmakers who have supported the Supreme Courts decision to move forward in reviewing a challenge of the states ammunition background check and database law. I voted against this bill because it undermines our Second Amendment right and harms small businesses, Stec said. Since coming into effect, those concerns have sadly been validated and new privacy issues have arisen. ... We need to take public safety seriously if were going to take on violent crime and illegal gun possession, not take rights away from gun owners who are following the law. U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik has also weighed in on the Supreme Courts review of the law. Governor Hochuls state-run background check system and tax on constitutional rights are causing serious delays and false denials, Stefanik said. I have heard from constituents, including former law enforcement officials, who have successfully purchased a firearm only to be denied the ability to purchase ammunition. The delays are also causing community firearm retailers to lose customers who say they arent going to wait and instead go to neighboring states for ammunition to avoid the state registration and extra taxes. ___ (c)2023 the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.) Visit the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.) at www.timesunion.com New York For more than a year, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has been busing migrants from the southern U.S. border to places like New York, Washington and Chicago, prompting angry complaints from Democratic officials in those cities. The local authorities have said the influx of homeless, jobless newcomers is unsustainable. Speaking in New York Wednesday, the Republican Abbott agreed it was unsustainable, but said hes not the person most to blame. The lead importer of migrants to New York is not Texas, its Joe Biden, he said at a breakfast event held by the Manhattan Institute, a conservative think tank. Abbot said he began the busing program in response to the plight of the small border towns in his state who do not have the resources to deal with border crossers. Its a crisis. Its chaotic and it must stop, he said, urging the president to enforce laws he said gives the White House authority to repel migrants at the border. Until that time comes, Abbott said, Texas is going to continue to use every tool that we can to secure the border the best that we can. Those steps have included placing buoys a floating border wall in the Rio Grande to make it even harder to cross the turbulent river, where many migrants, including children, have drowned. Razor wire has also been uncoiled along the border. And the state has paid for many buses to transport migrants to New York and other big cities run by Democrats. By Abbotts count, Texas has given bus tickets to about 42,000 to start new lives elsewhere with 15,800 sent to New York City since the spring of 2022. Many thousands more people, though, have gone to the northeast U.S. on their own, or been sent by social service organizations or municipalities. New York City Mayor Eric Adams, a Democrat, has also been critical of the federal government, saying it hasnt done enough to help with the cost of absorbing the wave of nearly 120,000 and counting that have arrived in the city. But his spokesperson on Wednesday also blamed Abbott. New Yorkers deserve better than being trapped between a vicious game of political hot potato, said Kayla Mamelak. So lets stick to the facts: When thousands of asylum seekers arrived at Governor Abbotts doorstep in pursuit of the American Dream, he chose to use them as political pawns. Abbott said unlike New York, which sometimes has advance notice of bus arrivals, his state gets no such warning. What is going on in New York is calm and organized compared to the real chaos of what we see on the border, he said, adding that New York is seeing only a fraction of the multitudes Texas has had to deal with over the years. Last week, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre again accused Abbott of turning the border crisis into a political stunt. She said the White House has given the city $140 million in aid though the city wants more. Last week, Bidens administration gave hundreds of thousands of asylum seekers ffrom Venezuela temporary protected status, which would expedite their ability to legally work in the United States. Other U.S. cities have also dealt with an influx of migrants trying to escape poverty, violence or oppression in their home nations. In San Diego, the countys board of supervisors declared border crossings by asylum seekers an urgent humanitarian crisis and pleaded with the White House for more aid. Since Sept. 13, U.S. authorities have been dropping off migrants at transit centers in San Diego and the suburbs of El Cajon and Oceanside. Migrants are being released across the county with little direction and few resources, the county statement said, calling on the federal government to limit releases or provide more financial support. San Diego, like other border cities, is generally only a temporary home for asylum-seekers, who fan out across the country to join other migrants, family and friends. On Wednesday, the International Organization for Migration appealed to Mexico and Central America to help address the unprecedented numbers of vulnerable migrants transit through the region, adding that long-term solutions are needed to solve the underlying problems that drive people from their own countries. Washington Rep. Brandon Williams today asked for his salary to be withheld during a government shutdown, reversing his comments only hours earlier when he told a national television audience that he would continue to accept his $174,000 annual salary. Williams, a first-term Republican from Central New York, made the fast reversal after facing backlash from his Democratic opponents and others on social media. The controversy began shortly after 8 a.m. when Williams appeared as a guest on C-SPANs Washington Journal to talk about the possibility of the GOP-led House forcing a government shutdown Sunday. A caller from Kentucky asked Williams if he would work without pay like thousands of furloughed federal workers until after the shutdown is over. Williams at first said he didnt know if members of Congress would be paid during a shutdown. But C-SPAN host Greta Brawner pressed for an answer and told Williams that Republican leaders reiterated this week that members would be paid during a shutdown. Thats when Williams said he would accept his pay and offered a justification. Our job does not end in a shutdown, Williams said. We dont get to stay home. We stay there and make it work. He added, I dont know why that rule is in place. I am not independently wealthy. And we are like any other family. We want to stay focused on the job and not be manipulated by our own financial circumstance to do whats right for America. I assume that why thats in place. Later in the show, a caller criticized Williams for saying he would take a salary while federal employees and contractors would suffer. The pain suffered by federal workers is real and is nothing to dismiss, Williams said, adding he agreed with the caller and said he wants to avoid a government shutdown. He said those workers wont find much sympathy from those who work in the private sector and have been furloughed or lost pensions. Youre not going to find a huge amount of sympathy out there, Williams said. Im afraid thats just the reality. I dont think a shutdown is a win for anybody. Williams comment sparked a firestorm among his Democratic opponents. State Sen. John Mannion of Geddes, who is seeking to challenge the congressman in next years 22nd Congressional District election, seized on Williams comments. Mannion blasted Williams in a public statement at 11 a.m. and noted that Williams is a multi-millionaire. During the shutdown, servicemembers will work without pay, small businesses will lose access to critical loans and grants they need to stay afloat and grow, and hundreds of thousands of employees will be furloughed, Mannion said. Yet Williams has the nerve to declare that he has no sympathy for workers being furloughed or fired. Watch full C-SPAN interview with Brandon Williams (Williams response about his pay starts at the 19:41 mark.) Williams, a former Wall Street executive and Silicon Valley investor, filed a financial disclosure report with the House listing a net worth of at least $3.1 million, syracuse.com | The Post-Standard reported in August 2022. Since the House allows assets to be listed in wide ranges, Williams could have a net worth of more than $8 million, according to the disclosure report. Williams is the son of J. McDonald Don Williams, the retired CEO and chairman of Trammell Crow Company in Dallas. In 2009, his parents built a mansion in Dallas that they later put up for sale in 2013 for $9.75 million. Facing criticism over his comment Thursday, Brandon Williams reversed course and posted a note on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, at 11:13 a.m. I have directed that the House suspend my pay to share the burden of a potential government shutdown; meanwhile, I am engaged in the fight to avert one, Williams wrote above a copy of his letter to the chief administrative officer of the House. At 11:35 a.m., Williams tried to make light of his apparent political gaffe. Yeah, I shouldnt do interviews before having my coffee in the morning, he said in a statement posted on X. RELATED Rep. Brandon Williams moves toward far right with new staff rooted in Trumps MAGA campaign Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact Mark Weiner anytime by: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 571-970-3751 New York state banned the use of facial recognition technology in schools Wednesday, following a report that concluded the risks to student privacy and civil rights outweigh potential security benefits. Education Commissioner Betty Rosas order leaves decisions on digital fingerprinting and other biometric technology up to local districts. The state has had a moratorium on facial recognition since parents filed a court challenge to its adoption by an upstate district. The Lockport Central School District activated its system in January 2020 after meeting conditions set by state education officials at the time, including that no students be entered into the database of potential threats. The district stopped using the $1.4 million system later that year. The western New York district was among the first in the country to incorporate the technology in the aftermath of deadly mass school shootings that have led administrators nationwide to adopt security measures ranging from bulletproof glass to armed guards. Lockport officials said the idea was to enable security officers to quickly respond to the appearance of disgruntled employees, sex offenders or certain weapons the system was programmed to detect. But an analysis by the Office of Information Technology Services issued last month acknowledges that the risks of the use of (facial recognition technology) in an educational setting may outweigh the benefits. The report, sought by the Legislature, noted the potentially higher rate of false positives for people of color, non-binary and transgender people, women, the elderly, and children. It also cited research from the nonprofit Violence Project that found that 70% of school shooters from 1980 to 2019 were current students. The technology, the report said, may only offer the appearance of safer schools. Biotechnology would not stop a student from entering a school unless an administrator or staff member first noticed that the student was in crisis, had made some sort of threat, or indicated in some other way that they could be a threat to school security, the report said. The ban was praised by the New York Civil Liberties Union, which sued the state Education Department on behalf of two Lockport parents in 2020. Schools should be safe places to learn and grow, not spaces where they are constantly scanned and monitored, with their most sensitive information at risk, said Stefanie Coyle, deputy director of the NYCLUs Education Policy Center. The state report found that the use of digital fingerprinting was less risky and could be beneficial for school lunch payments and accessing electronic tablets and other devices. Schools may use that technology after seeking parental input, Rosa said. The American soldier who sprinted into North Korea across the heavily fortified border between the Koreas more than two months ago arrived back in the U.S. early Thursday, video appeared to show. North Korea abruptly announced Wednesday that it would expel Pvt. Travis King. His return was organized with the help of ally Sweden and rival China, according to the White House. While officials have said King, 23, is in good health and the immediate focus will be on caring for him and reintegrating him into U.S. society, his troubles are likely far from over. King, who had served in South Korea, ran into the North while on a civilian tour of a border village on July 18, becoming the first American confirmed to be detained in the isolated nation in nearly five years. At the time, he was supposed to be heading to Fort Bliss, Texas, following his release from prison in South Korea on an assault conviction. He has been declared AWOL from the Army. In many cases, someone who is AWOL for more than a month can automatically be considered a deserter. Punishment for going AWOL or desertion can vary, and it depends in part on whether the service member voluntarily returned or was apprehended. Kings handover by the North Koreans makes that more complicated. Video aired Thursday by a Texas news station appeared to show King walking off a plane in San Antonio. Dressed in a dark top and pants, he could be seen speaking briefly with people waiting on the tarmac. He shook hands with one before being led into a building. Officials earlier said he would be taken to Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston in Texas. King is expected to undergo psychological assessments and debriefings. He will also get a chance to meet with family. He will be in military custody throughout the process since his legal situation is complicated. On Wednesday, Swedish officials took King to the Chinese border, where he was met by U.S. Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns, the Swedish ambassador to China, and at least one U.S. Defense Department official. He was then flown to a U.S. military base in South Korea before being returned to the U.S. It was not clear why the North which has tense relations with Washington over Pyongyangs nuclear program, support for Russias war in Ukraine and other issues agreed to turn him over or why the soldier fled in the first place. Several recent American detainees had been held for over a year 17 months in the case of Otto Warmbier, a college student who was arrested during a group tour. Warmbier was in a coma when he was deported, and later died. North Korea has often been accused of using American detainees as bargaining chips, and there had also been speculation that the North would try to maximize the propaganda value of a U.S. soldier. But analysts say Kings legal troubles could have limited his propaganda value, and Biden administration officials insisted they provided no concessions to North Korea to secure his release. WASHINGTON (AP) A government shutdown appeared all but inevitable as House Speaker Kevin McCarthy dug in Thursday, vowing he will not take up Senate legislation designed to keep the federal government fully running despite House Republicans struggle to unite around an alternative. Congress is at an impasse just days before a disruptive federal shutdown that would halt paychecks for many of the federal governments roughly 2 million employees, as well as 2 million active-duty military troops and reservists, furlough many of those workers and curtail government services. Rep. Brandon Williams flip flops within hours about taking pay during government shutdown But the House and Senate are pursuing different paths to avert those consequences even though time is running out before government funding expires after midnight on Saturday. The Senate is working toward passage of a bipartisan measure that would fund the government until Nov. 17 as longer-term negotiations continue, while also providing $6 billion for Ukraine and $6 billion for U.S. disaster relief. The House, meanwhile, has teed up votes on four of the dozen annual spending bills that fund various agencies in hopes that would cajole enough Republicans to support a House-crafted continuing resolution that temporarily funds the government and boosts security at the U.S. border with Mexico. Its a longshot, but McCarthy predicted a deal. Put your money on me; were going to get this done, he said in a CNBC interview. I think we can work through the weekend. I think we can figure this out. Lawmakers were already weary from days of late-night negotiating. The strain was evident at McCarthys closed-door meeting with Republicans Thursday morning, which was marked by a tense exchange between the speaker and Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., according to those in the room. Gaetz, who has taunted McCarthy for weeks with threats to oust him from his post, confronted the speaker about conservative online influencers being paid to post negative things about him. McCarthy shot back that he wouldnt waste his time on something like that, Gaetz told reporters as he exited the meeting. McCarthys allies left the meeting fuming about Gaetzs tactics. With his majority splintering, McCarthy is scrambling to come up with a plan for preventing a shutdown and win Republican support. The speaker told Republicans he would reveal a Republican stopgap plan, known as a continuing resolution or CR, on Friday, according to those in the room, while also trying to force Senate Democrats into giving some concessions. But with time running out, many GOP lawmakers were either withholding support for a temporary measure until they had a chance to see it. Others are considering joining Democrats, without McCarthys support, to bring forward a bill that would prevent a shutdown. With his ability to align his conference in doubt, McCarthy has little standing to negotiate with Senate Democrats. He has also attempted to draw President Joe Biden into negotiations, but Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said Congress and the White House had already worked out top-line spending levels for next year with an agreement this summer that allowed the government to continue borrowing to pay its bills. But McCarthy was deviating from that deal and courting a shutdown by catering to Republicans who say it didnt do enough to cut spending, he said. By focusing on the views of the radical few instead of the many, Speaker McCarthy has made a shutdown far more likely, Schumer said. McCarthy reiterated to CNBC that the House will have its say. Will I accept and surrender to what the Senate decides? The answer is no, were our own body. He acknowledged divisions within his own conference, saying members have made it difficult to pass appropriations bills. But he added that he still is working with the Republicans who wont support short-term funding legislation. Well, if you wont do any of that, its hard to govern, McCarthy said, before adding, I dont give up on any single one of them, and I try to find a place that we can bring it all together. President Joe Biden also sought to apply more pressure on McCarthy, urging him to compromise with Democrats even though that could threaten his job. I think that the speaker is making a choice between his speakership and American interests, Biden said. The White House, as well as the Department of Homeland Security, notified staff on Thursday to prepare for a shutdown, according to emails obtained by The Associated Press. Employees who are furloughed would have four hours on Monday to prepare their offices for the shutdown. The White House plans to keep on all commissioned officers. That includes chief of staff Jeff Zients, press secretary Karine Jean Pierre, national security adviser Jake Sullivan and other senior-level personnel, by declaring them excepted during a shutdown, according to the White House email. Military troops and federal workers, including law enforcement officers, air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration officers, will also report to work because they are essential to protecting life and property. They would miss paychecks if the shutdown lasts beyond Oct. 13, the next scheduled payday, though they are slated to receive backpay once any shutdown ends. Many Republicans have voiced fears they would be blamed for a shutdown including in the Senate, where many GOP members are aligned with Democrats on a temporary bill. Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell said he agrees with many of the goals of the House Republicans, but warned a shutdown will not achieve any of them. Instead of producing any meaningful policy outcomes, it would actually take the important progress being made on a number of key issues and drag it backward, McConnell said. But McCarthys House allies were hoping the threat of a shutdown could help conservatives with their push to limit federal spending and combat illegal immigration at the U.S-Mexico border. Anytime you have a stopgap situation like this, you have an opportunity to leverage, said Rep. Garret Graves, R-La. This is another opportunity. America does not want an open Southern border. The polls are crystal clear. Its having a profound impact on us. Students are dismissed from the first day of school at Public School 133 in the Brooklyn borough of New York, the United States, on Sept. 13, 2021. (Photo by Michael Nagle/Xinhua) To boost enrollment, some school districts have come up with various strategies, such as admitting four-year-olds, launching marketing campaigns, hosting back-to-school fairs, and conducting door-to-door visits. SACRAMENTO, the United States, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- From Los Angeles to New York City, public schools in big U.S. cities are reporting declining enrollment, a trend that school districts said is worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic and expected to continue in the coming years. The Los Angeles Unified School District, the second largest in the country, lost about 100,000 students for the 2022-23 school year compared with the 2015-16 school year, a drop of more than 15 percent, according to the LA School Report this month. In New York City, which has the country's largest student population, public schools have lost more than 100,000 students since the pandemic hit. For this school year, more than 320 schools in the city are expected to see at least 5 percent fewer students, according to the city's education department. The sharp decline has forced some school districts to consider downsizing or closing schools. The Fort Worth Independent School District in Texas held a meeting on Tuesday night to discuss the possibility of "rightsizing" the schools' capacity amid enrollment declines. Fort Worth is one of the fastest-growing big cities in the country, but the district's student population has dropped steadily from 87,233 in 2016 to 72,783 this school year, a loss of 14,450 students, according to the district's document. The district listed three factors to explain the decline: demographic trends, a lack of affordable housing for young families, and the increasing number of charter schools that have lured students away. A family arrives for the first day of full attendance at Philip Rogers Elementary School in Chicago, on Aug. 30, 2021. (Photo by Joel Lerner/Xinhua) In Oregon, the Salem-Keizer School District told local media KATU early this month that it had 2,300 fewer students than the pre-pandemic level. The district continued to enroll around 400 fewer students per year, including in 2023-24. The declining enrollment reflects a national issue - in nearly every state, public schools are projected to have fewer students by the end of the decade. This fall, the total public-school enrollment in the United States is projected to be 49.7 million, and that number is expected to fall by nearly 2.5 million, or 5 percent, by 2030, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics. Public schools' enrollment took a big hit nationwide during the pandemic. Nearly 1.2 million students left public schools in the 2020-2021 school year, with the biggest declines among kindergarten students, according to data from Return to Learn Tracker. Most public schools offered only remote instruction during the pandemic, which many parents were dissatisfied with and may have had a negative impact on enrollment. Schools offering remote-only instead of in-person instruction had a 42 percent greater decline in enrollment, according to a recent study by Thomas Dee, a professor at Stanford's Graduate School of Education, who has studied enrollment during the pandemic. Students line up for their snacks at Montrara Ave. Elementary School in Los Angeles, California, the United States, on Aug. 16, 2021. (Xinhua) Research showed that parents' interest in alternatives to public schools, such as home schooling and private schools, had increased. Big-city school districts also blamed the high living costs for the exodus of students. Los Angeles school district and New York City's education department share similar views that the decline was partly due to a drop in students entering school during the pandemic, and a surge in families relocating to more affordable destinations. Big-city districts are worried about major financial consequences, as state funding for school districts is typically tied to enrollment, and fewer students means less money. In the long run, they are afraid of school closures or mergers. To boost enrollment, some school districts have come up with various strategies, such as admitting four-year-olds, launching marketing campaigns, hosting back-to-school fairs, and conducting door-to-door visits. But Dee, in his analysis, reminded of the role of demographic changes in declining enrollment. "The population of school-age children in the United States, those 5 to 17 years old, actually fell by over a quarter million" during the pandemic, he said, suggesting that "some of the enrollment loss during the pandemic simply reflects declining birth and immigration rates rather than an active choice not to attend public schools." The Taos News delivered to your Taos County address every week for a full year! We offer our lowest mail rates to zip codes in the county. Click Here to See if you Qualify. Plan includes unlimited website access and e-edition print replica online. Your auto pay plan will be conveniently renewed at the end of the subscription period. You may cancel at anytime. CHICAGO, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- The United Auto Workers (UAW) plans to add strike targets against the Big Three U.S. automakers Friday if there is no major progress in their contract negotiation, The Detroit News quoted a UAW source as saying Wednesday. The list of potential strike targets in the next stage involves engine and transmission facilities, as well as large pickup trucks and SUV factories. Like last week, the new locations for strike would be announced at 10 a.m. local time (1400 GMT) on a Facebook livestream hosted by the union, and the strike will begin at noon on Friday. The UAW's unprecedented strike against the Big Three is now on its 13th day. The UAW went on strike on Sept. 15 at three select facilities of Ford, GM and Stellantis, and expanded the strike to 38 General Motors (GM) and Stellantis facilities on Sept. 22. Nationwide, 18,300 UAW autoworkers at 41 Ford Motor Co, GM and Stellantis NV facilities in 20 states are on strike, asking for higher wages, pensions for all workers and elimination of the tiered wage systems. U.S. President Joe Biden visited a picket line outside a GM parts distribution center in the U.S. state of Michigan Tuesday, voicing his support to auto workers. Former U.S. President Donald Trump's visit here came a day after Biden's appearance, where he attacked Biden's policies for transforming the auto industry and showed his support for auto workers. In an interview Tuesday, UAW President Shawn Fain says he sees "no point" in meeting with Trump, "I don't think the man has any bit of care about what our workers stand for, what the working class stands for. He serves a billionaire class." "Our focus right now is 100 percent on getting a great agreement for our members," Fain said. "Today was really about our workers." The automakers are "all for taking all of our tax dollars, helping finance this transition (to EVs). But when it comes to taking care of the workers, the companies keep trying to take us backward and it's unacceptable." Following Netflixs lead, Disney+ is gearing up to keep its subscribers from sharing their accounts with others, starting with new password-sharing rules in Canada. Those rules come in a revised user agreement that puts its account-sharing policy in black and white; namely, that you may not share your subscription outside of your household, and that household means the collection of devices associated with your primary personal residence that are used by the individuals who reside therein, as The Streamable reports. Disney has since confirmed its intention to clarify its password-sharing rules, telling The Streamable that the revised rules will also be heading for several other territories, including the U.S. later this year. The revised subscriber agreement, which goes into effect on November 1, goes on to state that Disney may analyze the use of your account and, if we determine that you have violated this Agreement, we may limit or terminate access to the Service, according to MobileSyrup. Disneys revamped user agreement shouldnt come as a surprise, given that Disney CEO Bob Iger telegraphed the move last month. Later this year, we will begin to update our subscriber agreements with additional terms and our sharing policies, Iger said during an August investor, adding that we will roll out tactics to drive monetization sometime in 2024. Disneys baby steps toward a password-sharing crackdown follow those of Netflix, which took years to deploy its account-sharing policies. Back in May, Netflix finally made its password-sharing crackdown official in the US, setting a $7.99-per-month charge for each extra member on a primary Netflix account. And while the clamp down on account sharing isnt a big hit with users, its apparently working, with Netflix announcing that it had gained an eye-popping 5.6 million subscribers in the second quarter. Updated shortly after publication with more details about Disneys updated user agreement for Canada. In brief: Despite Alphabet's objections, the judge presiding over the US Justice Department's antitrust lawsuit against Google ruled that the DoJ can publish trial documents online. However, the ruling is not without exception, and both parties are to resolve objections to sensitive materials by the next business day. The side fighting started over a week ago when the DoJ posted dozens of emails and other Google documents used in the trial to its website. Google filed an injunction claiming that the document dump revealed trade secrets and promoted "clickbait" headlines. Bloomberg notes that the Justice Department removed the documents last week while the two litigants argued in front of the judge before coming to an arrangement. Under the ruling, the DoJ can publish trial exhibits "as soon as it is reasonable to do so." However, Google and any other parties mentioned in the documents have until 9:00 p.m. each day after the hearing to make objections. The litigants must resolve these disputes through redaction or other means by the beginning of the next day, at which point the DoJ is free to publish the full or redacted exhibits. The case is the Justice Department's first antitrust action to make it to trial in decades, according to NPR. The lawsuit argues that Google has erected a monopoly that puts it illegally at the center of everyone's attention whenever they conduct a search on their phones or browsers. One of the DoJ's more prominent points revolves around a deal between Alphabet and Apple to make Google the default search engine on the iPhone and other devices. Today, Apple's former senior VP of services, Eddy Cue, testified that the two companies entered a revenue-sharing agreement in 2002. Under the contract, Apple would get a portion of Google's advertising revenue if it kept the search engine as the default on Apple devices and Safari. In 2016, Apple renegotiated the contract, asking for a bigger slice of the pie for searches conducted on Apple hardware. Google CEO Sundar Pichai was reluctant and wanted to keep the deal unchanged. Eventually, the two tech giants worked out a continuing agreement for an undisclosed amount. The DoJ estimates the price tag at about $19 billion per year. Cue also said the contract had a clause that bound both companies to support and defend the deal if it came under regulatory scrutiny. Cue claims that Apple had no choice but to broker the deal with Google since there were no "valid alternatives" other than search engines its customers were unfamiliar with or were not as trusted. What just happened? Just when it looked as if Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard was about to be completed, the FTC has revived its attempt to block the $69 billion deal. The agency said it will resume its in-house trial against the takeover after pausing the process over the summer. In an order issued on Wednesday, the FTC said public interest warrants that the Commission move forward with its adjudicative process related to the deal. This allows a party to settle or contest the charges. If they contest the case, it is heard before an administrative law judge in a trial-type proceeding. It was back in December last year when the FTC filed administrative action to stop Microsoft from acquiring Activision Blizzard. On June 12, the organization filed an injunction in a federal court to prevent the deal from being finalized. The request was denied by the US District Court for the Northern District of California in July; the judge said the FTC had not shown evidence that the takeover would harm competition in the gaming market. The FTC requested that the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals review the decision, but the watchdog later withdrew its complaint, which it has now reinstated. In its latest move, the agency has ordered a new evidentiary hearing to commence 21 days after the Ninth Circuit gives its opinion on the appeal. "The FTC continues to believe this deal is a threat to competition," said FTC spokesperson Victoria Graham. She added that the FTC is placing the issue on the Commission's calendar, but that "our current focus is on the federal appeal process." The timing of the decision will likely come as an annoyance to Microsoft. It was only last week that the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), which had previously blocked the deal, gave its provisional approval. Microsoft had assuaged the regulator's concerns by transferring the cloud streaming rights for all current and new Activision Blizzard PC and console games released over the next 15 years to Ubisoft. As reported by Bloomberg, Microsoft might not be overly concerned about the move scuppering its purchase. While the FTC can technically continue to challenge the deal after it closes, it's unlikely to prevent the acquisition from going through by the October 18 deadline. What just happened? The automotive industry is seemingly plagued by dangerous IT practices and precarious computer infrastructures. The biggest automakers in the world often have to deal with sudden, repeated IT issues that can bring data security or production lines down. After Toyota's recent blunder with its undersized database backup servers, another serious IT "fault" is now affecting Volkswagen's European network. The German carmaker has confirmed the outage, stating that the issue is still being analyzed while assembly lines located in Germany have been essentially shut down. Volkswagen said it detected the unspecified "IT malfunction of network components" on Wednesday, and the issue has been present since 12:30 pm. The source was located at the company's Wolfsburg headquarters, before starting what seems to be an uncontrolled propagation throughout the carmaker's entire network of manufacturing plants. The incident is having "implications" for German assembly lines making new cars, the company confirmed. The affected sites include Emden, Osnabrueck, Hanover, Dresden, and Zwickau, plus component factories located in Braunschweig, Kassel, Chemnitz, and Salzgitter. Volkswagen owns some of the most popular automotive brands in the world, and the issue is seemingly affecting Porsche AG and Audi productions as well. Because of the incident, computer systems and email networks in some Volkswagen offices have been put offline. The company states that, according to the ongoing analysis, an external attack against its internal network is unlikely. The cause of this widespread "system malfunction" is still unknown, while efforts to fix the issue and bring the company's activity back on track are of the "highest priority and well underway." Volkswagen was already battling with lower-than-expected production at its all-electric Zwickau plant, and the new IT incident will likely be felt in the carmaker's quarterly results. In the past few years, Volkswagen had to deal with stolen customers' contract information, and leaks of confidential information about factory robots designed for automakers. The company was recently slammed by Mozilla (together with Audi and other 25 brands) for being a "data privacy nightmare on wheels." Even if the German manufacturer is excluding an external attack, The Register suggests that the incident could be part of Russia's effort to affect countries supporting Ukraine. Russian "hacktivists," or even Kremlin-sponsored cyber-crackers, have been targeting German organizations and infrastructures with DDoS attacks. In a nutshell: Spotify reports that the number of people listening to podcasts has surpassed 100 million and continues to grow. The streaming service is now exploring new methods to broaden access to its podcast service for an even larger audience of creators and languages. It aims to achieve this by leveraging the capabilities of AI algorithms to automatically translate content from some prominent figures in the industry. Spotify has unveiled Voice Translation for podcasts, a new pilot service that utilizes AI to translate audio shows into various languages. Through the application of machine learning techniques, podcasts can maintain the original podcaster's voice, resulting in a more natural sound. Voice Translation is built upon a tool developed by Spotify and incorporates cutting-edge advancements in AI audio technology, including OpenAI's contributions. OpenAI, headquartered in San Francisco, has developed a versatile speech recognition model called "Whisper," which has undergone training on a substantial dataset of diverse audio. This training enables it to perform tasks such as multilingual speech recognition, speech translation, and language identification. Thanks to Whisper and its AI model, Spotify claims that translated podcasts sound more natural than conventional dubbing. According to the streaming service, a podcast recorded in English can now be offered in other languages while preserving the speaker's "distinctive speech characteristics." The initial collection of AI-translated podcasts, compiled on a dedicated Voice Translations Hub, features episodes from well-known podcasters such as Dax Shepard, Monica Padman, Lex Fridman, Bill Simmons, and Steven Bartlett. At this stage, only a limited number of catalog episodes and upcoming releases will undergo translation. Spotify has committed to providing translations in Spanish, French, German, and other unspecified languages. The company is also collaborating with other podcasters to include their shows in the translation service. According to Ziad Sultan, Spotify's VP of personalization, offering translated podcasts that retain the creator's original voice enables listeners worldwide to discover and be inspired by new podcasters in a more authentic manner. Spotify is taking a thoughtful approach to AI to foster a deeper connection between listeners and creators, which appears to be a key element of the company's mission to unlock the potential of human creativity. Voice-translated episodes will be accessible worldwide for both premium and free subscribers. Initially, translations will be available in Spanish, with French and German versions set to be introduced in the coming days and weeks. In brief: For all of the advancements generative AI has made this year, many people rarely or never use the likes of ChatGPT. But maker OpenAI is reportedly looking to create its first consumer device that offers a more natural and intuitive way of interacting with the technology, and it is working with former Apple designer Sir Jony Ive, along with SoftBank's Masayoshi Son, to launch this "iPhone of artificial intelligence." According to The Financial Times, which cites three people familiar with the talks, OpenAI boss Sam Altman has been in discussions with Ive about the device. The pair are looking to take inspiration from the way the original iPhone, which Ive helped create, and its touchscreen technology was a catalyst that led to today's mobile internet. The pair are said to be brainstorming what the design or device might be. An actual phone seems unlikely, despite the "iPhone of AI" quote. One X user suggests it could be a modern reimagining of Google Glass. Also involved in the project is Masayoshi Son, the CEO of Japanese investment company SoftBank. He's already invested $140 billion into AI startups and is reportedly ready to hand $1 billion of funding to OpenAI and LoveFrom, the company Ive founded when he departed Apple in 2019. SoftBank famously holds a 90% stake in British chip designer Arm, so it shouldn't be a surprise to learn that Son is pitching a major role for Arm in the device's creation. Ive has previously spoken out against the compulsive nature of smartphones. In 2108, he said that Apple had a "moral responsibility" to mitigate the addictiveness of technologies such as apps. Ive reportedly believes the OpenAI project presents an opportunity to create a way of interacting with computers that is less reliant on screens. The Verge notes that Altman is no stranger to this concept thanks to his investment in hardware and software startup Humane, which is developing a screenless wearable AI device designed to replace smartphones. The details of what the trio have planned are obviously minimal, and there might not even be an end product after all of these discussions, but the talks are said to be "serious." With the smartphone market having just experienced its worst quarterly performance in over a decade, could now be the perfect time to introduce a new device? Center image: TechCrunch CHICAGO, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- The United Auto Workers (UAW) plans to add strike targets against the Big Three U.S. automakers Friday if there is no major progress in their contract negotiation, The Detroit News quoted a UAW source as saying Wednesday. The list of potential strike targets in the next stage involves engine and transmission facilities, as well as large pickup trucks and SUV factories. Like last week, the new locations for strike would be announced at 10 a.m. local time (1400 GMT) on a Facebook livestream hosted by the union, and the strike will begin at noon on Friday. The UAW's unprecedented strike against the Big Three is now on its 13th day. The UAW went on strike on Sept. 15 at three select facilities of Ford, GM and Stellantis, and expanded the strike to 38 General Motors (GM) and Stellantis facilities on Sept. 22. Nationwide, 18,300 UAW autoworkers at 41 Ford Motor Co, GM and Stellantis NV facilities in 20 states are on strike, asking for higher wages, pensions for all workers and elimination of the tiered wage systems. In a nutshell: Epic Games has confirmed plans to lay off around 830 employees, or roughly 16 percent of the company's workforce. In an e-mail sent to employees that was also shared online, Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeny said they've been spending more money than they earn for a while now. He hoped they'd be able to weather the storm by implementing measures like net zero hiring and reducing their marketing budget. In retrospect, Sweeny said, this hope was unrealistic. Most of the job cuts about two-thirds impact teams outside of core development units. In fact, Epic is not cutting any core businesses. The labor reduction could impact some product shipment schedules, but it is a trade-off they can accept if it means Epic will still be able to eventually achieve its goals of getting to the other side of profitability and becoming a leading metaverse company. Epic is also divesting Bandcamp, the audio distribution it acquired in March 2022. Bandcamp will be joining music marketplace Songtradr, we are told. Furthermore, Epic Games will be spinning off most of SuperAwesome, which it picked up in 2020. Around 250 of the job cuts involve Bandcamp and SuperAwesome staffers. Sweeny said that having to say goodbye to folks that helped build Epic is terrible, but was thankful they are in a position to support laid off employees. Epic Games is offering a severance package that includes six months of base pay plus six months of paid healthcare for those in the US, Canada, and Brazil. The company will also accelerate stock option vesting schedules through the end of 2024, and will provide two additional years from today to exercise the options. Career transition services and visa support will also be available where applicable. Epic confirmed that no additional layoffs are in the works, and that the announced changes will financially stabilize their business. Hiring for critical roles will continue, but Epic plans to mostly stick with its new size structure for a while. Recap: A long-running beta for a web-based Photoshop client with a freemium trial for Canadian users raised hopes that Adobe might lower the iconic image editor's barrier to entry. Photoshop's full launch on the web brings the application to a broader range of hardware, but its prohibitive cost remains. All Adobe Photoshop subscribers gained access to a web browser client this week. While the new option doesn't include the full suite of editing features, it offers easy access to Adobe's recently released Firefly generative AI library. The company primarily designed Photoshop on the web for newcomers, streamlining the interface to speed up workflows and make the software easier to understand. Tools are reorganized based on how often they're used together for specific jobs like retouching pictures or cutting objects. Users unfamiliar with Adobe's glyphs can optionally display tool names. Web Photoshop also includes the recently introduced Contextual Task Bar, which automatically recommends the next tool to help users perform the most common tasks. Although the web client lacks many of the traditional desktop version's features, it includes the majority of the most popular tools. Users will be able to employ the pen, patch, polygonal lasso, smart objects, and more soon. In the meantime, users needing to access missing tools can quickly shift a project between the web and desktop clients with a single click. A central feature of the web version is Adobe's new Firefly AI suite, enabling the Generative Fill and Expand tools. Through clicks or text prompts in over 100 languages, subscribers can add and remove elements from pictures or create new content beyond an image's original borders, all while maintaining perspective-correct lighting. Adobe made Firefly commercially available across multiple applications earlier this month, including a standalone web app, Express, and Illustrator. While the company has tested a free version of the web client in Canada, Adobe told The Verge that it isn't planning to launch a free tier worldwide. The news will likely disappoint those hoping for a more accessible entry point to Photoshop, but the paid web version still introduces advantages. Subscribers can now access some functions on Chromebooks or other platforms that don't natively support the desktop software. It also allows users to quickly begin editing on a new system without downloading and installing the desktop version. Additionally, web users can invite non-subscribers to collaborate by viewing and commenting on files. A California judge has denied Apple's request to dismiss a class action lawsuit over Apple Pay. The suit alleged that Apple violated antitrust laws with excessive processing fees and restricted access to NFC scanning hardware. (Photo : Michael Short/Getty Images) CUPERTINO, CA - MARCH 25: Jennifer Bailey, vice president of Apple Pay, speaks during an Apple product launch event at the Steve Jobs Theater at Apple Park on March 25, 2019 in Cupertino, California. Denying Dismissal Request of Apple Apple's attempt to dismiss a proposed federal class action lawsuit regarding Apple Pay was denied by California Northern District Judge Jeffrey White on Wednesday. The case was filed by three credit unions claiming that Apple violated the Sherman Antitrust Act. The Verge reported that the credit unions argued that Apple's processing fees are excessive and that the company's refusal to grant access to its NFC-scanning hardware to other digital wallets is exclusionary. The judge sided with the credit unions, acknowledging their argument that QR code payment apps like Venmo do not provide the same convenience and functionality as Apple Pay. Furthermore, the high switching costs to move to Android create a distinct market for iOS tap-to-pay. Lawyers contended that Apple effectively monopolizes this specific market, with the NFC reader detail being the sole barrier to potential competition. According to the complaint, Apple's actions compel more than 4,000 banks and credit unions utilizing Apple Pay to incur a minimum of $1 billion in excess fees. Additionally, this conduct negatively impacts consumers by diminishing the motivation to enhance the safety and user-friendliness of Apple Pay. White noted that the plaintiffs have credibly asserted that Apple should permit alternatives to Apple Pay. It could foster greater competition, encouraging innovation and reducing prices. In its bid for dismissal, Apple maintained that it levied only "nominal" fees, even for smaller card issuers. The company also emphasized that the plaintiffs overlooked the "competitive reality" wherein consumers still had the option to make payments through cash, credit and debit cards, and various other methods. The judge also sided with Apple's argument that the claim fell flat since Apple Pay is free and Apple does not force the public to use it. However, overall, White noted that the claim that the company has a monopoly was "plausible." White concurred that Apple imposed "unjustifiably high and inflated fees" for payment processing and expressed concern about the lack of competition in the iOS digital payments sector, which he viewed as detrimental to consumers. He also deemed Apple denying NFC access to third-party apps anticompetitive. It echoed the European Union's preliminary ruling in 2022, which labeled Apple Pay as anticompetitive due to its exclusionary utilization of the iPhone's NFC reader. Read Also: Apple Card Savings Account: $1 Billion Deposits in First 4 Days and Growing The Credit Unions vs. Apple Reuters reported that the credit unions' attorneys also alleged that Apple Pay is inappropriately linked to Apple devices like phones, tablets, and watches. Steve Berman, a lawyer for the plaintiffs, conveyed his contentment with the court's decision in an email, emphasizing, "We are happy with this ruling." He added that "there are billions at stake, so getting by the motion (to dismiss) largely intact was huge for the class." Illinois' Consumers Co-op Credit Union, Iowa's Affinity Credit Union, and GreenState Credit Union are at the forefront of the proposed class action. They asserted that Apple compelled individuals using its smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches to use its wallet for tap-and-pay transactions exclusively. That stands in contrast to Android-based device manufacturers that allow users to utilize wallets like Google Pay and Samsung Pay. Apple and the plaintiffs will meet again in court on December 1. Related Article: Apple Pay is Not Coming to Walmart, Despite Kroger Support; What Happened? 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Meta continues its strides toward implementing generative AI throughout its product lineup, with recent developments showcased at the Connect event. In particular, Instagram users can soon expect cutting-edge AI-driven features geared toward image enhancement and sticker creation. (Photo : -/AFP via Getty Images) A photo taken on March 14, 2022, shows the US social network Instagram logo on a smartphone screen in Moscow. - Instagram was inaccessible in Russia on March 14 after Moscow accused its parent company Meta of allowing calls for violence against Russians, including the military, on its platforms. Meta Introduces Generative AI on Instagram Meta is taking significant steps towards fulfilling its commitment to integrate generative AI across its product spectrum. According to Engadget, the company introduced innovative AI-based features for Instagram, focusing on image editing and sticker design. One notable addition is the "restyle" tool, akin to a highly advanced generative AI filter. This tool empowers users to transform their current photos into diverse visual styles. To achieve this, users can provide descriptions such as "watercolor" or more intricate prompts like "collage made from torn edges of magazines and newspapers" to articulate the specific look and ambiance they desire for their images, as elaborated by the company. Meta also offered a sneak peek at another innovative tool named "backdrop," which leverages the power of generative AI to function as a virtual green screen. By entering prompts such as "place me against a stunning aurora borealis backdrop," users can instantly transform their images with the desired background. While Meta has not provided a specific release date for "restyle" and "backdrop" on Instagram, they assured users that these exciting tools would be introduced in the near future. Read Also: Meta Seamless M4T: Multilingual AI Translator is Now Available to Access with 100 Languages Meta Utilizing Backdrop and Restyle Tools Additionally, the company mentioned that content generated using both "backdrop" and "restyle" tools would be clearly labeled to prevent any confusion with human-generated content. While Meta did not provide specifics about the appearance of these labels, it is worth noting that previous instances on Instagram have featured information screens stating "image generated by Meta AI." This transparency aims to ensure that users can easily distinguish AI-created content from human-made posts. The Verge reported that Meta unveiled a fresh set of AI-generated stickers during the Connect event. These stickers will find their way into popular platforms like Instagram, WhatsApp, Messenger, and Facebook Stories. Users can craft personalized stickers swiftly by employing text prompts. Meta is planning to introduce these stickers to "select English-language users" across its apps in the coming month. These new features are part of Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg's ongoing commitment to introduce generative AI capabilities to all Meta-owned applications. In line with this vision, the company unveiled a lineup of over 25 generative AI chatbots, some designed to mimic the personalities of well-known celebrities and content creators. It marks a significant step in Meta's endeavor to enhance user experiences across its various platforms. During the company's Meta Connect event on Wednesday, TechCrunch reported that Zuckerberg emphasized the significance of stickers in everyday chats. He highlighted how people send hundreds of millions of stickers daily to convey their feelings, but the options can sometimes be limited. With the introduction of Emu, a generative AI feature, users now have the freedom to type in exactly what they want to express, allowing for a more personalized and nuanced communication experience. "Every chat is a little bit different and you want to express subtly different emotions. But today we only have a fixed number - but with Emu now you have the ability to just type in what you want," Zuckerberg noted. Related Article: Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg Reveals Plans to Incorporate Generative AI into Every Product 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. NASA astronaut Frank Rubio and his crew completed an extraordinary 371-day space mission, surpassing NASA's previous record for the longest time a US astronaut has spent in space. They safely returned to Earth using a replacement Soyuz capsule launched in February due to concerns about space debris damaging the original capsule. (Photo : Bill Ingalls/NASA) Expedition 69 NASA astronaut Frank Rubio is helped out of the Soyuz MS-23 spacecraft just minutes after he Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergey Prokopyev and Dmitri Petelin, landed in a remote area near the town of Zhezkazgan, Kazakhstan on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. NASA Astronaut Frank Rubio Successfully Returned to Earth According to NASA, Frank Rubio and his fellow crew members successfully returned to Earth on Wednesday after an extraordinary 371-day mission in space. With a sense of relief and accomplishment, Rubio expressed his elation after being safely extracted from the capsule: "It's good to be home." The trio, which included Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergey Prokopyev and Dmitri Petelin, departed from the International Space Station (ISS) at 3:54 a.m. EDT and safely touched down at 7:17 a.m. southeast of the remote town of Dzhezkazgan, Kazakhstan, with the assistance of parachutes. The return of Rubio and his fellow cosmonauts was facilitated by a Soyuz capsule, a replacement launched in February. The original capsule faced a potential threat from space debris, suspected of piercing its radiator during a mission that should have lasted six months. To prevent overheating of the capsule's electronics and ensure the safety of any occupants, the craft returned empty. Read Also: NASA OSIRIS-REx Capsule Safely Returns with Asteroid Sample Breaking Records What was initially planned as a 180-day mission extended into a remarkable 371-day journey in space for Frank Rubio. CNN reported that this prolonged stay surpassed NASA's previous record for a single spaceflight, held by Mark Vande Hei. Late Russian cosmonaut Valeri Polyakov holds the world record for the longest continuous stay in space. He spent an impressive 437 days aboard Russia's Mir space station, maintaining his orbit from January 1994 to March 1995. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson hailed Rubio's historic achievement, emphasizing its significance in advancing our knowledge of extended space missions. Nelson acknowledged the immense sacrifices made by astronauts like Rubio, who spend extended periods away from their homes and families to push the boundaries of discovery. Nelson expressed NASA's profound gratitude for Rubio's unwavering dedication to the nation's space exploration endeavors. He also highlighted Rubio's invaluable scientific contributions during his time on the ISS. Associated Press reported that Rubio, aged 47, an Army doctor and helicopter pilot, revealed in a recent press conference that he would not have agreed to a full year in space had it been proposed initially. The mission led to him missing significant family events, such as his eldest child's first year at the U.S. Naval Academy and another child's departure for West Point. Rubio found the psychological challenges of such an extended space journey more demanding than anticipated. It is worth noting that NASA currently has no plans for additional yearlong missions. This mission marked the debut spaceflight for both Rubio and his fellow astronaut, engineer Dmitri Petelin, 40. On the other hand, Sergey Prokopyev, 48, an engineer and pilot, has now completed two extended stays aboard the ISS. Related Article: NASA, US Air Force Receive First Electric Air Taxi From Joby Aviation L&T Construction, India's construction company giant, has introduced the nation's first 3D-printed post office, an impressive feat accomplished in just 43 days. Employing COBOD's BOD2 3D construction printer, this achievement highlights the substantial potential of 3D printing technology in reshaping the construction sector. India's First 3D Printed Post Office India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, took to his social media platform to share this milestone, expressing pride in India's first 3D-printed post office at Cambridge Layout, Bengaluru. He lauded it as a testament to the nation's innovation and progress, reflecting the spirit of a self-reliant India. "Every Indian would be proud to see India's first 3D printed Post Office at Cambridge Layout, Bengaluru. A testament to our nation's innovation and progress, it also embodies the spirit of a self-reliant India. Compliments to those who have worked hard in ensuring the Post Office's completion," the Prime Minister said in a statement. Union Railways & Communication Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw initially drew attention to the project in April through social media, adding to its already notable profile. The inauguration of the post office last week by Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw further highlighted the Indian government's commitment to using cutting-edge technologies for national development. Vaishnaw said that Bengaluru continually presents a fresh perspective of India. He noted that the newly unveiled 3D-printed post office symbolizes India's current spirit and exemplifies the nation's progress. Read Also: Creality Initiates Sale of K1 Max 3D Printer with Better Price and Exciting Features as well as Amazon Prime Day Offers How the 3D-Printed Office Came to Be The post office occupies a floor area of 1,021 square feet (94.9 m), and according to L&T, it is estimated to have incurred costs of 2.6 million rupees (approximately US$31,200), a figure roughly 40% lower than what conventional construction methods would have entailed. Additionally, L&T, known for 3D printing India's first two-story building, created this project in record time. George Abraham, Head of Operations (South and East) at L&T, emphasized the rapid execution in his inaugural speech, attributing it to the integration of robotics and pre-embedded designs. This approach enabled the completion of the entire construction process in a mere 43 days, a stark contrast to the approximately eight months typically required using conventional methods. "It is because of the robotic intervention that involves pre-embedded designs, that we were able to complete the entire construction activity in a period of 43 days as compared to about 8 months taken by the conventional method," Abraham said in a statement. Simon Klint Bergh, COBOD's Co-Founder and Head of APAC, commended L&T's achievement, noting how they've effectively harnessed the capabilities of 3D construction printing. He expressed anticipation for more groundbreaking projects from Larsen & Toubro in the near future, underlining their role as innovators actively shaping the future of construction technology. Related Article: Lockheed Martin Partners With 3D Printing Company for Research Expansion of Metal Additive Parts 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Microsoft executive Mikhail Parakhin testified during Wednesday's antitrust trial against Google in the US District Court in Washington that Apple's consideration of replacing Google with Microsoft's Bing as the default search engine on Macs and iPhones was not a genuine endeavor but rather a negotiating tactic to secure larger payments from Google. According to the Associated Press, Parakhin claimed that Apple benefits more financially from Bing's existence than Bing itself. Google's Antitrust Trial Apple is believed to receive an annual sum ranging from $15 to $20 billion through revenue-sharing arrangements with Google. According to the report, this exchange allows Google's search engine to maintain its coveted default status on Apple devices, with revenue stemming from user interactions on search result advertisements. The Department of Justice (DOJ) asserted that Google employs comparable contracts to exclude competing search engines such as Bing and Yahoo, impeding competition and innovation. The trial, which started on September 12, is projected to extend through November. Alexander Austin, the founder of startup Branch Metrics, provided testimony asserting that Google's exclusive agreements with phone manufacturers and companies posed significant obstacles to his company's pursuit of promoting a search engine for smartphone apps. These agreements compelled Branch Metrics to curtail the functionalities of its product to avoid conflicts with Google's arrangements with entities like Samsung and Verizon. Consequently, this reportedly limited Branch Metrics' capacity to monetize its app search engine effectively. Read Also: Google Voice Spam Protection Features Expand to SMS for Android and iOS: Extended Feature Highlights Suspected Spam Google's Defense Google's defense contends that advancements in artificial intelligence negate the need for extensive user data to enhance search results. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella's comments on AI's transformative potential were introduced as part of Google's argument. However, Parakhin likened the current state of AI to driverless cars, asserting that while it holds promise, it has not yet reached its full potential. US District Judge Amit Mehta is not expected to deliver a ruling in the antitrust case until early next year. If Google is found to have violated antitrust laws, a subsequent trial will determine the measures needed to limit its market influence. One potential option is to prohibit Google from compensating Apple and other entities to maintain its status as the default search engine. During the trial, Apple's Senior Vice President of Services, Eddy Cue, defended the decision to designate Google as the default search engine, emphasizing that no alternative matches Google's proficiency in the realm of internet searches. The Department of Justice argued that Google's dominance has been fortified through financial agreements, while Google maintained that users have the freedom to easily switch to alternative search engines. Related Article: Microsoft Teams Mobile Gets Upgrade in the Form of Faster Meeting Processes, Better Presentation, and Easier Account Switching 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Google has acted swiftly to address the fifth zero-day vulnerability in Chrome that has been exploited in attacks since the beginning of this year. In an emergency security update released recently, the company released a patch for the security flaw on Chrome 117.0.5938.132. Fifth Zero-Day on Google Chrome Gets Patched In a report by Bleeping Computer, Google fixed the most recent zero-day exploit in the system dubbed "CVE-2023-5217." In a security release that Google wrote on Wednesday, Sept. 27, the vulnerability was described as existing "in the wild." If the company did act immediately to solve the issue, cybercriminals would take advantage of its weakness. Global Rollout of Security Patch in Chrome 117.0.5938.132 Google says that the patch has been launched worldwide for users with Google Chrome version 17.0.5938.132. It's available not just on Windows but also on other OS such as Linux and Mac via the Stable Desktop channel. There's no assurance that all users will receive the patched version of Chrome within a single day. While the update won't reach other users, they can always check if there are changes in the announcement. Automated Updates for Enhanced Security As part of its security measures, Google's web browser regularly checks for new updates and, in most cases, will automatically install them upon the next browser launch. This automated approach ensures that users benefit from the latest security enhancements without any significant effort. .@_clem1 discovered another ITW 0-day in use by a commercial surveillance vendor: CVE-2023-5217. Thank you to Chrome for releasing a patch in TWO day!! https://t.co/QhzJonwLXi Maddie Stone (@maddiestone) September 27, 2023 Related Article: Chrome Zero-Day Vulnerability: North Korean Hackers Bring Threats to US Targets, Same One in Past Years Understanding the Severity of CVE-2023-5217 The zero-day vulnerability, CVE-2023-5217, is categorized as high-severity. It stems from a heap buffer overflow weakness found in the VP8 encoding of the open-source libvpx video codec library. This type of vulnerability can have a wide-ranging impact, from causing application crashes to enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. According to Hacker News, here are the four zero-day vulnerabilities that were fixed previously. CVE-2023-2033 (CVSS score: 8.8) - Type confusion in V8 CVE-2023-2136 (CVSS score: 9.6) - Integer overflow in Skia CVE-2023-3079 (CVSS score: 8.8) - Type confusion in V8 CVE-2023-4863 (CVSS score: 8.8) - Heap buffer overflow in WebP The zero-day vulnerability was originally identified by Clement Lecigne, a security researcher with Google Threat Analysis Group (TAG). The security community respects TAG researchers for their role in discovering and reporting zero-days, often exploited in targeted attacks by government-sponsored threat actors. The seriousness of this zero-day is highlighted by the fact that it has already been exploited in the wild to install spyware on targeted systems. However, Google has not yet shared detailed information about the specific incidents or the extent of this exploitation. Proactive Measures for User Safety By releasing an emergency patch, Google has taken a proactive approach to protect Chrome users from potential attacks, leveraging this zero-day. This approach can be crucial in minimizing the risk of threat actors developing and using their own exploits in real-world scenarios, especially as more technical details of the vulnerability become available. Read Also: Adobe ColdFusion Experiences Zero-Day Bug Exploit Per CISA Warning 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. This photo taken on Sept. 28, 2023 shows the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., the United States. The U.S. government started notifying federal workers on Thursday that a shutdown seems to be imminent, as the Congress remains deadlocked over how to fund the government just three days before funding for this fiscal year is set to expire. (Xinhua/Liu Jie) WASHINGTON, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. government started notifying federal workers on Thursday that a shutdown seems to be imminent, as the Congress remains deadlocked over how to fund the government just three days before funding for this fiscal year is set to expire. "During this time, some of you will be temporarily furloughed while others who perform excepted functions will continue to execute your assigned duties," according to one of the notices sent to employees at the Homeland Security Department, reported by The Washington Post. The messages acknowledged the growing likelihood of a government shutdown amid funding fight in the Congress, which means millions of federal government employees might not be able to receive paychecks starting from October unless lawmakers can reach a last-minute deal to extend government funding. During what could be the 22nd government shutdown in history, all non-essential operations will be suspended, and all but the government's most essential workers will be furloughed. Essential departments such as the military, border defense, and public security are not affected. An "unscientific" poll of budget experts released Tuesday by the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, an independent budget watcher, showed that the probability of a government shutdown has soared to 87 percent, up from 58 percent at the end of August. A Senate-proposed stopgap funding measure, unveiled Tuesday, has a slim chance to advance in the House in its current form amid Republican infighting, which has complicated the already intense fight between the two parties. Traditionally, the House of Representatives moves first on spending and revenue bills but House Speaker Kevin McCarthy failed to gain enough support from his own party on a stopgap funding bill, forcing senators to make the first move in the last week ahead of a shutdown "deadline." The Senate-proposed bill is expected to fund the government until Nov. 17, the week before Thanksgiving, with the funding levels continuing at the same levels as before. It includes roughly 6 billion U.S. dollars of aid for Ukraine and about 6 billion dollars in disaster relief funding. However, it remains uncertain whether the House will advance the plan in time to avert a shutdown. "I don't see the support in the House" for the Senate bill, McCarthy told reporters Wednesday. One point of contention is the aid to Ukraine. Conservative Republicans in the House oppose providing more aid to Ukraine, arguing that the Biden administration should make deep spending cuts and the aid to Ukraine should be part of it. The second point of contention is that House Republicans want to pass a bill that includes border security provisions, which revealed the partisan divide over immigration policy. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on Wednesday lashed out at McCarthy for "constantly adhering to what the hard right wants," saying that this approach will inevitably lead to a shutdown. Referring to Donald Trump's "Make America Great Again" slogan, Schumer said "Speaker McCarthy needs to stop letting the MAGA radicals drive his decisions." But McCarthy's difficult situation in the House leaves him little choice. After last year's midterm elections, the Republican Party retook control the House, with a narrow majority of 221 seats, just 9 more than the Democratic Party's seats, meaning that even five "rebels" are enough to defeat a Republican legislative agenda. McCarthy previously proposed a short-term funding bill that would cut spending for most federal agencies by 8 percent and tighten immigration restrictions, but the bill is opposed by conservatives within the Republican Party and is unlikely to win support from Democrats. Republican conservatives oppose any "patchwork" funding package and wants Congress to negotiate all 12 annual spending bills individually. In an attempt to appease hard-line Republicans, the House on Tuesday voted to advance four bills that would fund the Departments of Defense, Homeland Security, State and Agriculture for another fiscal year. But such efforts won't be able to prevent a government shutdown. At a press conference in the U.S. Capitol, Republican Senator Joni Ernst said "Congress is not working." Moody's Investors Service warned earlier this week that a government shutdown could hurt America's top credit rating, as it would underscore the weakness of U.S. institutional and governance strength relative to other AAA-rated sovereigns. Although a short-term shutdown would have limited impacts on the economy, the effects could become more significant if the stalemate persists. Furloughed federal workers could reduce spending during the shutdown, dragging down consumption growth, while the government would also temporarily cut back on purchases of goods and services. If the stalemate continues for a long time, the negative impact on the economy will go up. JPMorgan estimates that each week of government shutdown reduces GDP growth by 0.1 percentage point. 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" Moments that epitomise humanity's resiliency and unbreakable spirit can be found in the annals of history. The 1990 invasion of Kuwait by Saddam Hussein marked one such extraordinary event: the exodus of Indians from Kuwait. The gripping Bollywood movie "Airlift" is set against this remarkable example of human perseverance and global cooperation. The film, which was directed by Raja Krishna Menon and came out in 2016, tells the tale of how one of history's largest civilian evacuationsmore than 170,000 Indianswere saved from the midst of a war. The world was on the verge of a serious geopolitical crisis in 1990. The Gulf War began on August 2nd after Saddam Hussein, the president of Iraq at the time, gave the order to invade Kuwait. Numerous Indians who lived and worked in Kuwait saw their lives destroyed as the flames of war engulfed the country. They were stranded in a war-torn nation after the invasion and had no way to leave. In the movie "Airlift," Akshay Kumar plays the part of wealthy Indian businessman Ranjit Katyal, who has settled in Kuwait. As he assumes the responsibility of leading the evacuation mission, Katyal's character, who was initially portrayed as a self-centered opportunist, changes. The true story of Mathunny Mathews, an Indian immigrant and businessman who was instrumental in orchestrating the evacuation, served as the model for this fictionalised portrayal. 'Toyota Sunny' or Mathunny Mathews was a beloved character who was an unsung hero of this massive evacuation effort. At the time, Mathews was a middle-aged Indian businessman who excelled in leadership and resourcefulness. He used his contacts, local knowledge, and business savvy to organise and facilitate the safe exit of thousands of Indians from Kuwait. Brilliantly capturing the logistical nightmare of the evacuation process is the movie "Airlift." Given the limited resources available to the Indian government, Mathews and the Indian Embassy in Kuwait had to be quick on their feet and come up with creative solutions. The majority of the evacuation involved flying the stranded Indians to safety using military and commercial aircraft that were chartered. Air India was a key player in this operation, flying a string of flights under the code name "Airlift." The evacuation operation encountered a number of difficulties, both anticipated and unanticipated. First off, it was incredibly difficult to plan and coordinate the movement of over 170,000 people. Second, they had to travel through a hostile environment where there was a constant risk of violence and bombings. The tension and danger experienced by those involved in the operation are beautifully captured in the movie. The emphasis on the humanitarian aspect of the evacuation in "Airlift" makes it unique. The movie illuminates the individual accounts of fear, hope, and resiliency of the Indians caught in the crossfire as the world watched the Gulf War play out. Families were split up, people had to deal with the harsh realities of war, and the evacuees suffered a tremendous emotional toll. The international cooperation that went into the Kuwait evacuation was one of its most inspiring features. Numerous other countries contributed in addition to the tireless work of the Indian government and its embassy in Kuwait. With the help of nations like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Jordan, Indian flights were permitted to use their airports and airspace for transit and refuelling. In a time of crisis, this cooperative attitude exemplified the best aspects of humanity. The entire world kept a close eye on the evacuation as it went on. Would all of the Indians trapped in Kuwait survive? Despite the fact that the outcome is historical fact, "Airlift" expertly creates tension. The evacuation was a complete success in the end, and the Indians who were returned home were greeted with heroism. Mathunny Mathews, who had largely gone unnoticed for years, finally got credit for his contributions. In 2005, the Indian government gave him the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman. His tale, along with that of the Kuwait evacuation, has served as the basis for numerous books, documentaries, and articles that continue to illuminate this remarkable period of history. The movie "Airlift" honours the real-life heroes who made the Kuwait evacuation possible with a stirring cinematic ode. It captures the resilience of common people in extraordinary situations, the power of international cooperation, and the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. As we reflect on this historic evacuation, we are reminded of the enduring power of hope and the unwavering spirit that propels us to triumph in even the most trying circumstances. "Airlift" immortalises the story of the Kuwaiti evacuation on the silver screen for future generations, serving as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The Extraordinary Life of Mathunny Mathews, the Real Ranjit Katyal Aftab Shivdasani's Iconic Start in Bollywood When Ram Gopal Varma's College Crush Became Cinematic Inspiration With its potent ability to take viewers to various eras and locations, cinema is a very effective medium. An outstanding illustration of this is the movie "Airlift," which expertly re-created the atmosphere of Kuwait in the 1990s on sets located in Ras Al-Khaimah, United Arab Emirates (UAE). This article will go into detail about the meticulous set design and construction process that turned Ras Al-Khaimah into a convincing recreation of a war-torn Kuwait during the Gulf War. This article will examine the "Airlift's" cinematic magic, from historical accuracy to the difficulties encountered during filming. Understanding the historical setting of the movie is crucial before delving into the specifics of the set design in Ras Al-Khaimah. Based on the actual evacuation of Indian expatriates from Kuwait during the Gulf War in 1990, "Airlift" depicts the event. In order to ensure the safe return of thousands of Indians who were stranded in Kuwait, Akshay Kumar's character Ranjit Katyal, played in the movie, made heroic efforts. The Gulf War, which broke out when Iraq invaded Kuwait in August 1990, had a significant effect on the area and the entire world. The evacuation of civilians turned into a significant humanitarian undertaking as a result of the war's widespread destruction and chaos in Kuwait. It was extremely difficult for the filmmakers to accurately recreate this turbulent time. Filmmakers frequently have to decide between shooting on location and building elaborate sets in controlled environments. In the case of "Airlift," the directors chose the latter, choosing Ras Al-Khaimah, one of the seven emirates of the UAE, as the setting for their ambitious project. Ras Al-Khaimah provided the filmmakers with a number of benefits. It was a good canvas for portraying the war-torn nation because of its arid desert landscapes, which resembled Kuwaiti terrain. Additionally, it was a great choice because of the supportive environment and robust film industry in the United Arab Emirates. The filmmakers undertook a thorough research journey to recreate Kuwait in the 1990s. This required looking at images, videos, and eyewitness accounts from that time period. The objective was to accurately portray the essence of Kuwaiti architecture, culture, and social customs. The architecture of Kuwait, from its historic structures to its contemporary skyscrapers, was meticulously studied by the set designers and art directors. To ensure that the sets accurately depicted the urban environment of Kuwait, they paid close attention to every last detail. The outcome was a stunning recreation of Kuwait City in the 1990s complete with well-known landmarks and street scenes. The team behind "Airlift" faced many difficulties during the planning and construction phases because creating a film set that accurately represents a particular period and location is a difficult task. They faced the following major obstacles: Scale and Range: It's no small task to recreate an entire cityscape. Streets, buildings, and public areas had to be constructed over a sizable area by the set designers. In order to make the city feel genuine, careful attention to detail was essential. The crew had to contend with hot temperatures and direct sunlight because Ras Al-Khaimah has a climate very different from Kuwait's. To make sure that the lighting would be ideal for filming, careful scheduling and planning were required. Logistics: It was difficult to plan the transportation of tools, supplies, and crew to Ras Al-Khaimah because of its remote location. However, these problems were somewhat reduced by the UAE's advanced infrastructure. Cultural Sensitivity: The filmmakers had to portray Kuwaiti society with cultural sensitivity and respect. To ensure that the portrayal in the movie was accurate and respectful, this required consultations with specialists and local advisors. Authentic Props and Costumes: Every element of the set, from the costumes to the props, had to accurately depict the era. The movie sourced and used vintage automobiles, outfits, and everyday objects from the 1990s. Despite these difficulties, the hardworking group of directors, set designers, and art directors was able to realise their artistic vision. The Ras Al-Khaimah sets transported spectators back in time to the terrifying Gulf War era. Both critics and viewers praised the film's realism, which gave the gripping story an additional layer of realism. "Airlift" is a testament to the ability of film to reenact history and take viewers to various eras and locations. Ras Al-Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, was successfully transformed into a convincing recreation of Kuwait in the 1990s thanks to meticulous research, a commitment to historical accuracy, and the artistry of the set designers and art directors. The difficulties encountered during production and filming only serve to increase admiration for the film's accomplishment. The makers of "Airlift" were able to honour the human spirit's tenacity during a trying time in history in addition to telling a gripping story through their efforts. Aftab Shivdasani's Iconic Start in Bollywood When Ram Gopal Varma's College Crush Became Cinematic Inspiration Manoj Bajpayee's Man Singh Chronicles 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 }} Baltimore police have pushed against criticism over their handling of the investigation into tech CEO Pava LaPeres murder after revealing that her alleged killer had already been identified as a suspect in another attack several days before her body was found. US Marshalls and local and state police arrested Jason Dean Billingsley, 32, without incident on Wednesday night for the murder of LaPere. Authorities said during a press conference on Thursday that Billingsley was surrounded by a SWAT team at a train station in Bowie, Prince Georges County. It was revealed that LaPere was likely murdered on 22 September, but her body was not found until three days later. Sources previously told The Baltimore Banner that she had been found with evident signs of blunt force trauma on the roof of her apartment building. Police also said that a warrant for Billingsleys arrest had been issued on 20 September, a day after he allegedly carried out a sexual assault and arson attack that left two adults and a child injured. The incident took place at a building where Billingsley worked, located just a 15-minute walk from LaPeres residence. Answering questions from reporters on why a public safety advisory had not been sent to the community of a potential threat with Billingsley on the loose, Baltimore Acting Police Commissioner Richard Worley said that his department didnt think he would strike again because the first attack appeared to be targeted. We pretty much know why he went into that house [on 19 September]. He was familiar with the building. He knew the victims, he said. We didnt think at that point that he was committing random acts because we know he had been out since October 2022 and he wasnt linked to any violent incidents. Commissioner Worley went on to say that Billingsley was expected to check in with probation officials on the same day that LaPeres body was found. A detective who had investigated the incident on Edmondson Avenue and then responded to the crime scene at LaPeres building immediately realised there was a link between the attacks. Law enforcement expected Billingsley to report to them on that day because he had been compliant in the past, Commissioner Worley said. The incident on Edmonson Avenue was not a random act, Commissioner Worley said. Had it been a random act, we would have put out flyers right away saying this individual was on the loose committing random acts. Jason Billingsley in a new mugshot provided by the Baltimore Police Department (BPD) Why the first incident being targeted made a difference in alerting the public remains unclear. Court records document Billignsleys lengthy criminal history and repeated sex offences, which landed him in jail with a 30-year sentence in 2015. In 2009, he pleaded guilty to first-degree assault and was given two years of supervised probation. He violated the terms of his parole and was convicted of second-degree assault in 2011. Billingsley served two years over the 2011 conviction and just months after being released in 2013, he was arrested again on attempted rape charges. In 2015, Billingsley was sentenced to three decades in prison, with 16 years suspended and five years of supervised probation, after he pleaded guilty to a first-degree sex offence. The sentence, which was struck under the previous administration, was below guideline standards, Baltimore District Attorney Ivan Bates said on Thursday. Mr Bates said that Billingsley was set to serve 14 years but then went on to earn diminution credits, per Maryland sentencing guidelines. Frank LaPere, Nico LaPere Y Caroline Frank at a vigil for slain tech CEO Pava LaPere (AP) Billingsley was released in October 2022, something that should have never have happened, Mayor Brandon Scott said at the press conference. Authorities are still trying to determine whether LaPere and Billingsley knew each other before her murder. The DA said his office intends to seek a life sentence without the possibility of parole for Billingsley. My wish is that we can give the family and community a sense of closure, Commissioner Worley said. Were going to put this violent repeat criminal offender in jail, where he belongs, Acting Police Commissioner Richard Worley said. Lets work together and make sure he stays there. LaPeres family thanked law enforcement for their tireless efforts in capturing Billingsley. Were relieved to know he can no longer hurt other innocent victims, the family said in a statement. While this doesnt change that Baltimore lost one of its most passionate, influential fans, our efforts remain focused on remembering and celebrating Pava Marie her life, successes, and legacy. The power of film lies not just in its capacity to amuse, but also in its ability to illuminate real-life tales that have the potential to move, inspire, and educate audiences. Such a cinematic masterpiece is best exemplified by the 2016 release of the Bollywood film "Airlift," which was directed by Raja Krishna Menon. The main character of the movie, Ranjit Katyal, is a fictional creation, but he was inspired by a real-life hero, Kuwaiti businessman Toyota Sunny, also known as Mr. Mathunny Mathews. During the Gulf War in 19901991 Mathews was instrumental in helping thousands of Indians who were stranded get evacuated. This article examines Mathunny Mathews' remarkable life story as well as the way his character was portrayed on screen in the movie "Airlift." We must first examine the Gulf War in order to fully grasp the setting in which Mathunny Mathews rose to fame. The brutal occupation of Kuwait began when Iraq, under the command of Saddam Hussein, invaded the country in August 1990. Indian expatriates in Kuwait, who at the time numbered over 170,000, suffered greatly as a result of the invasion. These people from India, along with people from other nations, were stranded in a chaotic and war-torn area. Due to his connections to the auto industry, Mathunny Mathews, also known as Toyota Sunny, was a well-known and respected business figure in Kuwait. He had established himself as a prosperous businessman during his several years of residence in the countryside. When the Gulf War started, Mathews was presented with a choice that would ultimately determine his future. He had the chance to leave Kuwait and make sure his family was safe, but he took a different course. Mathews made the decision to remain in Kuwait rather than leave for safety in order to aid his fellow countrymen who were stranded and in desperate need of help. There were dangers in his brave choice. Even though Mathews was well aware of the risks involved in remaining in a conflict area, his sense of responsibility and concern for his fellow Indians drove him to take action. The Herculean task of planning an evacuation operation to save thousands of Indians who were stranded was taken on by Mathunny Mathews and other Indian expatriates. This operation required coordinating with Indian and international authorities, aiding those in need with shelter, food, and medical care, and navigating Kuwait's chaos due to the ongoing war. To ensure the safe passage of Indian nationals, Mathews played a crucial role in negotiations with a number of parties, including the Iraqi government. His unceasing efforts and diplomatic abilities were crucial in facilitating the evacuation. Mathews remained unwavering in his resolve to rescue his countrymen despite numerous challenges and unknowns. Mathunny Mathews is a fictional character in the film "Airlift," played by Akshay Kumar as Ranjit Katyal. Although the character is not an exact replica of Mathews, the movie heavily references Mathews' heroic actions and real-life experiences. Like Mathews, Ranjit Katyal is a successful businessman who gets caught up in a crisis when the Gulf War breaks out. He went from being a self-centered person to becoming a compassionate leader, mirroring Mathews' own development throughout the evacuation. Ranjit Katyal struggles with the duty of saving thousands of lives, and the movie deftly captures his emotional turmoil and moral dilemmas. The character of Katyal is portrayed with depth and authenticity by Akshay Kumar, elevating Mathews' brave deeds to the fore of the cinematic experience. The audience's ability to feel strongly after watching "Airlift" is one of its most alluring qualities. Viewers can relate to the stranded Indians' plight because the movie depicts their hope, fear, and desperation. The audience is moved by Ranjit Katyal's unflinching commitment to supporting his fellow countrymen in the face of overwhelming obstacles. A testament to Mathunny Mathews' true-life bravery is the film's emotional impact. His dedication to the welfare of his fellow Native Americans and willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice for them serve as a stirring example of the human spirit's resilience in the face of hardship. During the Gulf War, Mathunny Mathews performed many brave acts that were well-received. Numerous Indians who were saved as a result of his unwavering dedication to the evacuation effort respected and thanked him. For his contribution to the rescue effort, he was recognised with a number of awards and accolades, including the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman, the country's highest civilian honour for non-resident Indians. As a representation of bravery, compassion, and selflessness, Mathews' legacy endures. His story serves as motivation for both individuals and nations, reminding us of the value of speaking out for the welfare of our fellow humans during difficult circumstances. While "Airlift" is a work of fiction, Mathunny Mathews, a remarkable person who stayed behind in Kuwait during the Gulf War to lead the evacuation of stranded Indians, is deeply rooted in real-life heroism, which served as the inspiration for the film's portrayal of Ranjit Katyal. Mathews' bravery, tenacity, and selflessness have inspired and continue to inspire generations in India and around the world. The movie "Airlift" honours Mathews' heroic deeds while also serving as a moving reminder of the strength of kindness and compassion in the face of hardship. The person who created the character, Mathunny Mathews, will always be regarded as a real hero who stood unwaveringly in the defence of his fellow citizens during their time of need. Raghav Chadha's Rajasthan Wedding Draws Punjab Police, Sparks Controversy Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal's Real-Life Fairy Tale Bindiya Goswami's Stardom Journey Cheif Murphy Paul stands behind Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome as she reads a statement on the BRPD and the launching of an investigation into the BRPDs Street Crimes Unity following controversy surrounding what has been called the Brave Cave on Thursday, August 31, 2023 at City Hall in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Baton Rouge Police Dept. Deputy Chief Troy Lawrence, Sr. speaks at a press conference on Monday, Nov. 23, 2020, in which he and other law enforcement and city-parish officials addressed the recent violence that included five shooting fatalities last Friday in four separate shootings, all coming during robberies or home invasions. East Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome is at left, and Jonny Dunnam, executive director of Greater Baton Rouge Crime Stoppers, is at right. It is creeping up the river like a rising thermometer. Pumping in fresh water via pipeline from above what is known as the "Kenner hump" in the Mississippi River could help solve the problem. EBR district attorney Hillar Moore is joined by sheriffs and district attorneys from across the state Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at the 19th JDC after Moore filed a petition Tuesday to halt a push for clemency by Louisiana prisoners awaiting the death penalty, escalating an attack by prosecutors on the historic effort that would all but empty the state's death row. With him are members of Kimen Lee, Betty Smothers and Stephanie Guzzardos family. You would think that retail billionaire and former member of the Reserve Bank board Solomon Lew and the majority of Australians have little in common. But they are in violent agreement on one thing the Reserve Bank shouldnt lift interest rates next week. Bizarrely, Lew and the average battered and bruised punter have quite a bit in common. They are his customers and when they are squeezed in a cost of living crisis, it hurts Lews retail business, Premier. And profit is personal for Lew. Solomon Lew says interest rates dont need to rise again. Credit: Eamon Gallagher While Premier Investments 2023 profit held up better than most discretionary retailers, not even Lews well-oiled business can escape the reality of the current economic backdrop. Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size This story is part of the Sydney Opera House 50th Anniversary Magazine. See all 9 stories . When Jrn Utzon resigned in 1966 and packed his bags for Europe, never again to set eyes on the Sydney Opera House, it was left to a bright young Australian architect, Peter Hall, to finish the job. Hall was brought on by the NSW Government Architect when the Opera House was a half-finished structure, principally a series of concrete shells missing their glorious interiors. It proved both an opportunity and a poisoned chalice. Over the next seven years Hall walked a tightrope, balancing Utzons vision with a Liberal state government determined to rein in overruns and delays. At the same time he was juggling a brief that was changing to accommodate the wishes of the arts companies for whom this grand cathedral would be home. It would take a huge toll. Hall was ostracised by his colleagues and vilified for the inevitable compromises it took to realise Utzons daring vision for Bennelong Point. Retired Sydney architect Andrew Andersons recalls a party he hosted shortly before the Opera House opened in October 1973 to which Hall, regarded as something of a strikebreaker, had been invited. Some people saw Peter at the other end of the room and walked out and left. Can you imagine that? Andersons recalls. People had this idea that Peter was somehow a traitor by taking on the job. And, yet, I was actually at Yale University when Peter passed through on his way to Denmark in 1966 to try to persuade Utzon to come back. Peter Hall and the engineers who finished the Opera House Those judging Hall misunderstood the immense technical and political complexities he and his team confronted when they took over, says Anne Watson, who believes a reappraisal of Halls reputation is long overdue. Its possible to embrace Utzons great vision, acknowledge the construction hurdles and myriad complexities, and acknowledge Halls hard-fought endeavours to complete the building, says Watson, a former Powerhouse Museum curator and author of the 2017 book The Poisoned Chalice: Peter Hall and the Sydney Opera House. Without both men, there would be no Sydney Opera House as we know it. He felt, out of all the people in the field, he could do it. Peter Halls son, Willy Peter Hall was 34 years old and new to private practice when first approached by NSW Government Architect Ted Farmer to take over from Utzon, who quit over a dispute with the Askin government over payments. Halls prodigious talent had been telegraphed two years earlier when hed been awarded Australias prestigious Sulman Medal for the Goldstein Hall residential college at the University of NSW. Initially, Hall rejected Farmers offer, having signed the petition and joined the public protests calling for Utzons reinstatement. Approached a second time, he phoned Utzon, whom hed once visited in Denmark, who confirmed he would not be back: Its better I go, Utzon had told Hall. Advertisement Halls son, Willy, who as a child would play in the demountable offices on the Opera House site, recalls his mother telling him his father had paced their North Sydney home for two weeks when the job was offered. He kept saying over and over again, If someone doesnt do it, the whole thing will not be finished, recalls Willy, now aged 60 and a builder. He felt, out of all the people in the field, he could do it. Was that a little arrogant? Probably, but given his ability as a scholar and aesthete, I think he did realise he could take it on. But it was a terrible dilemma, and a lot of pressure on him at a young age, with two young children underfoot. Ove Arup (at left) with Jrn Utzon after Utzons arrival in Sydney from Denmark. Credit: Max Dupain Reading Halls personal papers and diaries for the first time in 2007, Anne Watson found a highly committed, ambitious and capable architect, respectful of Utzons vision yet unaware in early 1966 of the challenge that lay in wait. Hall and his partners Lionel Todd and David Littlemore, who formed the consortium Hall, Todd and Littlemore were fortunate to retain the expertise of Ove Arup, the English-born consulting structural engineer selected by Utzon to build his vision. The seminal roles played by Arup and Jack Zunz, his senior partner at the London-based Ove Arup & Partners, have been largely overshadowed by the legend of Utzons genius. Arup had written to Utzon the day after Utzon won the international design competition in 1957, offering his expertise in concrete design. Utzon and the Danish-educated engineer found in each other a like-minded creative collaborator, with Arup spellbound by Utzons architectural audacity and personality. I think it was a meeting of minds that was meant to be, says Peter Bailey, an Arup principal who worked on the Opera Houses 1988 Bicentennial Forecourt upgrades. Ove found in Utzon a soul mate who was imaginative, spatially creative and wanted to push boundaries. He was in his early 60s at the time and someone with a huge reputation himself. It was just a dream job, a dream commission. But like all dreams, it had its challenges. Foremost of these was to turn Utzons free-form shells into a modular, buildable structure. A gigantic computer was harnessed to experiment with complex geometric shapes of ellipsoids and paraboloids for the roof structure, before Utzon famously settled on the curved triangular segments of a sphere. That breakthrough was to unlock a whole construction approach, with the ribs of the main sails fabricated onsite by Hornibrook in segments before being glued and stressed together with steel tendons in a method now commonplace in modern bridge building. Advertisement Loading It took seven years and 350,000 man-hours to make the shells stand. It was stretching architecture to the limit, it was stretching complex geometric design and fabrication to the limit, Bailey says. Everything was right on the edge, needing cutting-edge technology, and thats why I think amazing things happened. But there were tensions between Utzon and Arups Sydney office over delays to the troubled design of the north-facing glass walls and the theatre ceiling, to the point that Arup complained that Utzon had shut down all communications with the engineering team. By then 71, and nearing retirement, Arup flew to Sydney to convince Utzon to stay on but not remain solely in charge. The engineer complained hed come under fire from friends and colleagues for sticking with the project. It is a personal disaster for me, Arup told The Bulletin in 1966 in defence of the companys decision to stay loyal to the project and the NSW government, a client that had treated the company fairly, after Utzons departure. Why should I resign to force Utzons return on his terms if I think that would be wrong? It is the Opera House that is important, not people. According to Bailey, Ove was deeply affected when Utzon left the job deeply, deeply affected. He was shattered. Everybody looks back on that project with fondness but there were scars for everybody along the way. Everyone ran out of time because the government wanted the building. Peter Hall in a 1987 interview In design principles drawn up by Utzon after his 1999 re-engagement, Utzon remarked that it was lucky Ove Arup had stayed on, otherwise the project would not have been finished, and that the team of Hall, Todd and Littlemore had made the building function so well. While theres been debate over the extent to which Utzons interior designs had been resolved by the time of his departure, in May 1966 Arup and Hall found much of the work still to be finalised: the foyers, the performance halls, back-of-house facilities and offices, and the glazing of the northern foyer windows that had precipitated the split between Utzon and the Askin government. Ove Arup, Jack Zunz and Michael Lewis on site in October 1964. Credit: Max Dupain Advertisement Hall said hed been persuaded fairly reluctantly to take up the role, thinking all the design work was done, and that it was a question of being built. As it turned out, Hall had few of Utzons drawings and documents with which to work. The project brief was changed radically. And then, of course, everyone ran out of time because the government wanted the building, Hall recounted in a 1987 radio interview that features in the Opera Houses oral history. It was a political embarrassment if there wasnt progress and so the job turned into a construction management contract in which the design really didnt stop until the last screw was screwed tight. By the time of Halls arrival, the concept of a multipurpose hall fit for orchestral concerts, opera and ballet, central to the competition design specifications, had been proven unworkable in North America. Subsequent radical auditorium design changes recommended by Hall and supported by government triggered a political storm, not least because the art form so central to the title of the Opera House itself was to take up residence in the smaller of the two halls, the larger one being reserved for the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, then run by the ABC. What was finally built in 1973 bore in broad terms a resemblance to the 1957 competition entry but in many details was different, and I think in a lot of ways better, Hall said in 1987. For Peter Hall, the Opera House cast a shadow that also affected his personal life and his health. Anne Watson Andersons, who as Assistant Government Architect engaged Hall on the 1988 Opera House Forecourt project, regards the building as a classic meeting of two minds: the inexperienced, single-minded visionary that was Utzon; and Hall, the delegator and pragmatic adherent to functional modernism. The Opera House was great because of Utzon but I also believe the final outcome owes an enormous amount to Peter Hall, who was reviled for most of his life, which contributed to his alcoholism and early death. Its a real tragedy. Architecture is about design and its about function and in the process compromises have to be made, and thats possibly what Utzon was reluctant to do. Returning to private practice in 1972, Hall designed many well-regarded projects, including Sydney Universitys swimming pool and recreation centre, and the award-winning Blue Circle Southern Cement Plant at Berrima, in the NSW Southern Highlands. He was not offered the prime contracts he might have expected though, Watson says, and in any event, no other project would ever remotely approach the challenge of the Opera House. It was a shadow that also affected his personal life and his health, Watson says. Ultimately, financial problems, a stagnating career and the depredations of alcohol contributed to his death from a stroke on May 19, 1995, at the age of 64. Advertisement The best venues to see and be seen at this October. See all stories . Sydney restaurateur Opel Khan is in the midst of the most dramatic week of his career. Last Sunday, he closed the doors at his chef-hatted Potts Point French fine-diner, Metisse. This week, he opened Khanaa, a high-wire Bangladeshi restaurant, in the original site of Billy Kwong in Crown Street, Surry Hills. It isnt the end for four-year-old Metisse, however. Khan says it will reopen in early 2024 in Barangaroo, where he hopes to find a stronger lunchtime market. Metisses sprawling Roslyn Street digs wont go unused, either. In October, Khan will move his artisan pasta venue, Acqua E Farina, there from Macleay Street. We currently have to turn away hundreds of customers a week [due to its size], he says. Potato bhaji with goats curd and shiraz caviar. Petrina Tinslay But its the food of his youth in Dhaka that currently has the chefs undivided attention. Bangladeshi cuisine was his first culinary love, before he immersed himself in European cuisine and technique. He also believes the food of his homeland is overdue for some recognition. With 60 seats indoors and 40 outside, Khanaas dining room which Khan designed himself is a clean mix of white walls, dark chairs and a wall sculpture titled Mermaid thats made from hand-woven silk. 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. Share Cafes are living rooms where we play out our days, from that morning caffeine hit to meeting with friends, or just hunkering down with something easy and delicious. Stretching from Burwood to Burraneer, the modern Sydney cafe takes many forms, from bakery counter to pancake shop, from salad bar to neighbourhood hub. Liberated from being just for coffee and cake, they now offer toasties filled with beef rendang, cappuccinos of creamy green matcha, and porridge spiked with wattleseed. Old or new, inside or out, theyre just great places to be. A.P Bakerys rooftop cafe. Steven Siewert A.P House, Surry Hills When the sun is shining, theres no better spot in the world than A.P Bakerys magical rooftop bakery/kiosk/cafe (which has since expanded to Newtown and the CBD as well). Queue and order coffee with a side of double-baked ham and gruyere croissants, a bacon butty or crisp, fluffy pastries, their laminated ramparts crusty with caramelisation. And if the sun dont shine? You cant go wrong with the Paramount cafe on the ground floor. Advertisement Advertisement BTB, Kirribilli Aboriginal-owned social enterprise Bush to Bowl supplies native produce to creative head chef Daniel Backhouse (ex-Berowra Waters Inn) at this bright neighbourhood gem. The results are outstanding, with highlights such as wattleseed and buckwheat porridge (with myrtle-poached apples, muntries and apple skin bark) and hearty kangaroo ramen (with bunya nut broth and warrigal greens), each served with smiles and speedy efficiency. For the full brekkie experience, order a creamy Coffee Supreme latte and a Davidson plum brownie to finish. 2 Ennis Road, Kirribilli, btbkirribilli.com.au Comeco, Newtown Incredible care goes into the creation of plant-based and gluten-free food at Comeco, a tiny Japanese eatery run by husband and wife team Masa Haga and Yu Ozone. The popular sourdough and sweet potato doughnuts are made fresh to order, with fillings like hojicha (roasted green tea) and yuzu custard. But its well worth coming for a full lunch of vegie-packed katsu curry and (on weekends) beautiful big rolls of sushi, alongside a creamy matcha or sesame latte. This is delicious, healthy food, made accessible for all. 524A King Street, Newtown, comecofoods.com.au If you cant find a seat at Cornersmith, borrow a rug for an impromptu picnic. Joshua Morris Advertisement Cornersmith, Annandale Community is at the heart of Cornersmith, where neighbours trade homegrown fruit and vegetables for jars of pickles, marmalades and relish. Their produce, in turn, makes it onto a (very reasonably priced) vegetarian menu of cheese toasties, hearty salad bowls and ploughmans plates. If tables are full at the cosy, light-filled cafe, you can borrow a rug, order your batch-brewed cup of locally roasted Sample Coffee to go, and have an impromptu picnic at the leafy park across the road. 88 View Street, Annandale, cornersmith.com.au Eksentrik, Maroubra From the chocolate brownie on your teaspoon to the big greeting from Joseph Kalitzakis (even if you have never been before), Eksentrik is the benchmark neighbourhood cafe. The shakshuka is generous, the butter is Pepe Saya, and the big breakfast is just that big. Theres everything from cold brew and prana chai to puppycino, and a Campos Superior blend caffe latte is rich and especially chocolatey. Eksentrik has grown into one of Campos biggest customers, and no wonder. 765A Anzac Parade, Maroubra, 02 8540 2936 The deli sandwich at Good Ways Deli in Redfern. Janie Barrett Advertisement Good Ways Deli, Redfern Sydney diners are no strangers to a gourmet sausage roll, but a filling of katsu curry kangaroo (cut with pork fat and Vegemite) might be a first. Its a sweet, tangy highlight on a strong menu of Australian schoolyard nostalgia, featuring salad sandwiches on thick slices of house-baked ciabatta, lamingtons with apple and raspberry jam, and amber bottles of iced Milo mocha. Everything is available to take away or served canteen-style on branded butcher paper to the retro-green outdoor tables. Shop 1, 20 Cooper Street, Redfern, goodwaysdeli.com.au Review Lunchtime lads corner the market at Good Ways Deli review Happyfields Happiest Meal comprises two hash browns, a McLovin Muffin with egg, cheese and chicken sausage, and three pancakes. Jennifer Soo Happyfield, Haberfield Its all good vibes at Happyfields, where the pancakes are stacked high, the hip-hop is blaring and the smell of freshly brewed Single O coffee is in the air. This popular yellow diner is pumping out nostalgia-tinged North American classics like drippy eggs with sourdough toast soldiers, McLovin breakfast muffins and Torontian head chef Jesse Orleans specialty: fluffy, buttery pancakes topped with fried eggs, crispy bacon and maple syrup. In more good news, table reservations are now available. For $US2499 ($3910), Prenuvo will try to predict your future. The company, said to be launching in Australia in 2024, offers a roughly hour-long session of magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, that scans your entire body, searching for early signs of cancer, aneurysms, liver diseases and even multiple sclerosis. In recent months, images of celebrities and influencers posing in branded scrubs in front of a glossy, cylindrical MRI machine have begun to pop up on social media with notable frequency. Kim Kardashian wore slippers in the post she shared with her 364 million followers last month, writing in the caption that Prenuvo has really saved some of my friends lives. In May, television host Maria Menounos said that a Prenuvo scan had alerted her to a mass that turned out to be Stage 2 pancreatic cancer. A Prenuvo MRI machine. Prenuvo does not pay anyone to promote its products, according to the companys founder and cheif executive, Andrew Lacy, but it does offer free scans to influencers and prominent figures in the wellness industry in exchange for an honest review if they feel like it, he said. Some people also receive discount codes they can share on social media, offering their followers hundreds of dollars off the cost of a scan. The company has sought a glamorous crowd. During New York Fashion Week in early September, it coordinated with the fashion public relations agency Lucien Pages to set up appointments for a few influential people in the fashion world, according to the agency. They included French fashion editor Olivier Zahm, who wrote on Instagram that he went to get his scan between runway shows. Designer Zac Posen, model Lily Aldridge and Vogue editor Gabriella Karefa-Johnson have also posted about the scans. Disgraced SAS soldier Ben Roberts-Smith and Zachary Rolfe, a Northern Territory police officer who shot dead an Indigenous teenager, have been photographed relaxing in a Bali pool an account appearing to bear Rolfes name joking about the downtime of cops/murderers and war criminals. The men at the centre of two major national scandals have been fast friends for years, since connecting over their military careers. An Instagram post appeared to show Zachary Rolfe (left) and Ben Roberts-Smith at a Bali beach club. Credit: Instagram/Guardian Australia This week a screenshot emerged that showed a Queensland police officer pictured in a post on Instagram with Roberts-Smith and Rolfe smiling poolside at Finns Beach Club in Bali, Indonesia. Hanging out with the boyz, the Queensland officer, who served alongside Rolfe in the NT, wrote. A corrective services officer who sexually assaulted female inmates at a facility in Sydneys west behaved in a brazen manner including touching women publicly, and one woman became so terrified she asked to be locked in a cupboard to hide from him, an inquiry has been told. Wayne Gregory Astill was jailed in March for a maximum of 23 years after he was convicted of 34 offences committed against 13 women at Dillwynia Correctional Centre near Windsor between 2014 and 2019. Former prison guard Wayne Astill pictured outside court in August 2022. Credit: AAP Astill would offer the women one of whom was pregnant favours such as phone calls to their loved ones or longer visits with their family, before telling them they owed him a favour and demanding they perform sex acts. One woman accepted an offer to use Astills phone to call her partner, before he pushed her onto his office desk and sexually assaulted her. When the woman told him he would pay for what he had done, he said he was a former police officer and was affiliated with a motorcycle gang. Azerbaijan is expanding the cultural ties with Qatar. Welcoming the Azerbaijani delegation, Qatari Culture Minister Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad bin Jassim bin Hamad Al-Thani stressed the importance of further development of the cultural ties. He underlined that there are many opportunities for developing ties in the field of culture and information, Azernews reports via the Culture Ministry. The Qatari minister touched upon the holding of the Culture Days in both countries, as well as the exchange of experience in the museum field. The Azerbaijani minister Adil Karimli expressed gratitude for the hospitality and attention shown to the Azerbaijani delegation. He hailed the friendly relations between the heads of the two states, which lays the basis for further cooperation in different areas, including in the field of culture. Adil Karimli invited the Qatari minister to the International Book Exhibition, scheduled for November 2023 in Baku, and to the World Forum of Intercultural Dialogue 2024. The ministers exchanged views on holding the Azerbaijani Culture Days in Qatar this year. Note that the Azerbaijani delegation visited Qatar to participate in the 12th Conference of the Culture Ministers of the Islamic World. By unanimous decision, Azerbaijan's Shusha city has been declared the Cultural Capital of the Islamic World for 2024. If were not having a European summer this year, then were allowed to spend $75 on two oysters, a bowl of chips and a couple of Palomas at Raes. Wincing our way through the price list of one of Byron Bays bougier beachfront venues, a friend and I were using any means necessary to justify a Sunday-afternoon blowout. Think hard enough and youre drinking Palomas on the Amalfi Coast or Puerto Escondido. Credit: Kate Nutt Could we afford it? No. Was it crucial for our mental wellbeing? Absolutely. In years gone by, our barometer for a year well spent was determined by whether or not we left the country. It made the monotonous slog of casual jobs and strings of sabbaticals feel worthwhile. Allan comes to the role with a diminished authority, and that could present a stumbling block to her leadership, but the upshot could be a more consultative cabinet. Having spent nine years working alongside Andrews, her factional ally and friend, some Labor MPs fear Allan may continue in his footsteps. After all, as one factional foe in Labors Right said, thats all she knows and what shes been taught. Jacinta Allan had been seen as Andrews heir apparent long before this weeks resignation. Credit: Luis Ascui Veteran Labor campaigners believe the Bendigo East MPs country girl charm will play well in the regions. But they fear her blind spot in suburban Melbourne presents an opportunity for the opposition to claw back some support. As the MP for Mulgrave, in Melbournes south-east, Andrews lived a more authentic suburban life. His time spent working in Labors head office also honed his skills talking to Labors working-class heartland on Melbournes fringes, which have begun abandoning the party in recent elections. Culturally she just doesnt have the same understanding or experience in these areas, one Labor official said. At last years election, two-party preferred swings of between 10 and 15 per cent in the suburban seats of Yan Yean, Greenvale, Thomastown and St Albans were rare bright spots for the Liberals. While Pesutto an urbane Hawthorn lawyer also lacks the lived experiences of suburban life, campaigners believe Allans rise could even the playing field for the opposition in these key seats. But Andrews departure has also given Labor the chance to rebrand a tired-looking third term government. Jacinta Allan isnt a new figure on Spring Street, having been elected in 1999, three years before Andrews. But to the public, she stands in contrast to Andrews, who one Labor powerbroker said was showing all nine years of leadership in his complexion. Loading Recognition isnt always a good thing, though. After all, its state politics; there is no need to be a rock star. Party campaigners from both sides believe Allans position as the second female to lead the state will make it difficult for the Coalition to win back support from professional women voters who have abandoned them in recent years. When word of Andrews resignation filtered through to Pesutto, the opposition leader was quick to warn his colleagues he had no doubt that Allan would be granted a honeymoon period in her new role. But Liberal MPs are convinced Andrews departure will give them the best opportunity the Coalition has had in a long time. Much has been made about Labors emphatic victory at last years election, and the states shifting demographics continue to favour Labor. But if 200,000 to 300,000 voters in the right seats shift their vote next election, its anyones to win. One of the key errors former federal Labor leader Bill Shorten made in opposition was not to change course when given a new opponent. In 2018, when Scott Morrison replaced Malcolm Turnbull as prime minister, Labor struggled to find attack lines that worked on Morrison. The elitist rhetoric hurled at Turnbull didnt stick to Morrison, who was busy cultivating the suburban daggy dad image. Labor campaigners believe that mistake cost them the 2019 election. Loading The early strategy from the Coalition is to obsess less about Allans personality and focus more on policy outcomes, particularly the states mounting debt, but it will require discipline from the Coalition team. Ben Carrolls decision to initially contest Allan for the leadership potentially triggering a month-long contest coming to an arrangement, may have been a play to land the role of deputy leader, but it exposed bitter factional tension which had been kept at bay under Andrews reign. Dingo hunting will continue to be legal in Victoria for at least 12 months despite a push from scientists and Indigenous groups for the threatened species to be protected. The Victorian government on Thursday said it would extend a so-called un-protection order which allows dingoes to be shot or baited within three kilometres of private land beyond its October 1 expiry date, while further assessments of the animals conservation status were undertaken. In Victoria, the dingo is listed as a threatened species under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988. Credit: Jason South A government spokesperson said the extended period would allow for a comprehensive assessment of the dingo population across Victoria to inform appropriate protections in the future. We will continue to work with traditional owners, farmers and private landholders to appropriately balance the protection of livestock and dingo conservation, the spokesperson said. The news Two-thirds of Queenslanders would support the introduction of daylight saving, whats described as the first comprehensive national survey on the issue has found. Nationwide support sits at 80 per cent, and is highest in the ACT and southern states where it is observed where clocks will get their annual hour wind-ahead from 2am on Sunday. Early detail from new national daylight saving research suggests strong support in the Sunshine State even with two timezones. Political will is a different story. Credit: Getty In Queensland, the survey suggests 66 per cent of residents would support doing the same. Fellow daylight saving-free state Western Australia had the lowest support at 64 per cent. Victorias troubled building regulator has been charged over the suicide of one of its senior inspectors for allegedly failing to provide a safe workplace free from health risks, such as stress and other mental health issues. Rob Karkut, 55, took his own life in May last year after 16 years as an inspector at the Victorian Building Authority (VBA), where he came under intense pressure to meet ambitious targets. Andrea Holden, partner of the late Rob Karkut. Credit: Scott McNaughton His death exposed the VBA, which has also been scrutinised for gaps in its regulation of the construction industry, as an unsafe workplace with toxic culture. WorkSafe on Thursday announced it had charged the VBA with two breaches of the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Yerevan, Armenia: The self-proclaimed state of Nagorno-Karabakhs long and bloody dream of independence will end at the end of the year after its leader announced the ethnic Armenian breakaway state in Azerbaijan will cease to exist. The moves came after Azerbaijan carried out a lightning offensive last week to reclaim full control over the region and demanded that Armenian troops in the region disarm and the separatist government dissolve itself. Analysts believe Azerbaijan, which is backed by Turkey, may have received a green light from Russia which previously backed Armenia. An ethnic Armenian from Nagorno-Karabakh sits in an old Soviet style car as she flees in Armenias Goris in Syunik region. Credit: AP A decree signed by the regions separatist President Samvel Shakhramanyan cited an agreement reached on September 20 to end the fighting under which Azerbaijan will allow the free, voluntary and unhindered movement of Nagorno-Karabakh residents to Armenia. That touched off the mass exodus of ethnic Armenians from the mountainous region inside Azerbaijan on Sunday. By Thursday morning, more than 66,000 people more than half of Nagorno-Karabakhs population of 120,000 had fled to Armenia, and the influx continued with unabating intensity, according to Armenian officials. Plug-in Vehicles: Honda and Acura Make Agreements with EVgo and Electrify America Networks TORRANCE, Calif. September 28, 2023 New agreements add single-app access to EVgo and Electrify America charging networks, plus roaming partners, through the HondaLink and Acura EV apps Honda and Acura customers will have access to Tesla Supercharger stations nationwide Joint venture with seven leading automakers, including Honda, will create a new high-powered fast charging network American Honda Motor Co., Inc. today announced that it has reached agreements with EVgo and Electrify America, plus roaming network partners, giving Honda and Acura EV customers access to more of the largest charging networks in North America. These latest agreements are in addition to the recent announcement that Honda will adopt the NACS charging standard with Honda and Acura EVs gaining access to the Tesla Supercharger network. Combined with the recent joint venture that Honda established with six other major automakers to create a leading high powered charging network, US Honda and Acura EV customers will be able to utilize the majority of public American DC fast chargers starting in 2024 and can anticipate having around 100,000 DC charge points available to them by 2030. Honda aims to provide our customers with easy access to the most fast-charging options of any automaker, said Jay Joseph, vice president, Sustainability & Business Development at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. With access to a broad range of fast-charging networks: Teslas Supercharger network; EVgo; Electrify America; and roaming partner networks, Honda and Acura EV drivers will enjoy stress-free, convenient charging away from home. New Charging Agreements The new agreements with EVgo and Electrify America, among the nations largest public fast charging networks for EVs, will provide Honda and Acura EV owners single-app access at thousands of fast chargers across the United States. Without leaving the HondaLink and Acura EV smartphone apps, Honda and Acura EV owners can find available stations, pay for charging, redeem credits, enroll in subscription plans and access other features at the EVgo and Electrify America stations and those of their roaming partners. Upon the purchase or lease of a new Honda or Acura EV, customers can select one of three charging packages included in the MSRP. Both Honda and Acura offer a combination of public charging credits, charging equipment and installation credit to fit each buyers lifestyle, whether theyre a homeowner or renter, a new EV driver or those trading up for a newer EV. Charging credits with EVgo and its partner roaming networks will be included with each optional charging package, providing even more convenient options for EV owners. These credits will range from $750 for owners aiming to maximize public charging to $100 for owners who select a Level 2 Home Charging Station and $500 installation credit, with a middle option including a $300 public charging credit paired with a Level 1/Level 2 Portable Charging Kit and a $250 installation credit. Customers redeem the installation credit through the Honda Home Electrification (HHE) or Acura Home Electrification (AHE) marketplaces where they can access a network of experienced local installers, as well as dedicated support from expert Energy Advisors available to answer questions on installation, rebates & incentives, and other home electrification products. Electrify America will offer all first-time Honda and Acura EV owners 60kWh of complimentary public charging, included with each of the available charging packages. With these offers, Honda is the first automaker to offer its customers credits across multiple networks in the United States. Full details will be made available closer to the launches of the all-new Honda Prologue and Acura ZDX in early 2024. Honda and Acura Charging Packages Option A Option B Option C Charging Equipment Home Charging Station (Level 2) Portable Charging Kit (Level 1 and 2) - HHE or AHE Installation Credit $500 $250 - EVgo Charging Credit $100 $300 $750 Electrify America Introductory Charging 60kWh 60kWh 60kWh Tesla Supercharger Network Access As recently announced, Honda and Acura customers will have access to Tesla Supercharger stations with the adoption of the North American Charging Standard (NACS). The 2024 Honda Prologue and Acura ZDX will be equipped with a Combined Charging System (CCS) port, but both all-electric SUVs are planned to be compatible with NACS through the use of a charging adaptor. Honda is planning to launch a new EV model in North America equipped with a NACS port in 2025. From that point forward, Honda will continue adopting NACS standards for its models. Joint Venture EV Charging Network American Honda also recently announced that it has agreed to establish a joint venture among seven of the world's leading automakers BMW Group, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz Group, Stellantis NV to create a high-powered charging network for EVs with the aim of building a reliable charging infrastructure to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles in North America, by making EV charging more convenient, accessible and reliable. Expected to be established this year, the joint venture aims to become the leading network of reliable high-powered charging stations in North America. Each site will be equipped with multiple high-powered DC chargers, making long-distance journeys easier for customers. In line with the sustainability strategies of all seven automakers, the joint venture intends to power the charging network solely by renewable energy. The new charging stations will be accessible to all battery-powered electric vehicles from any automaker using CCS or NACS and are expected to meet or exceed the spirit and requirements of the U.S. National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program. More Honda and Acura Electrification Information Honda Home Electrification (HHE) and Acura Home Electrification (AHE) are online marketplaces designed to make it simple and convenient for Honda and Acura EV drivers to set up the home charging option that best suits their lifestyle. Customers may also choose to install additional home electrification products, including rooftop solar, home batteries, smart home energy management, and heat pump water heaters. These products enable clients to minimize energy costs and improve the environmental impact of driving their vehicle. Announcements about Honda and Acura electrification and charging initiatives can be found here. Specific information on Acura charging solutions will be available soon on a new dedicated site here. The Honda brand will launch a similar site closer to the launch of the all-new Honda Prologue in early 2024. About Hondas Commitment to the Environment Honda is working toward its global goal of zero environmental impact by 2050 through its Triple Action to Zero approach, including achieving carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities, 100% utilization of renewable energy, and resource circulation, utilizing 100% sustainable materials by reprocessing products back to raw materials and reusing those materials in the creation of new products. Toward this goal, Honda will strive to make battery-electric and fuel cell electric vehicles represent 100% of auto sales in the U.S. and globally by 2040. To reduce the environmental impact of its business operations, Honda also is offsetting CO2 emissions from its North American manufacturing operations through long-term virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs) for renewable wind and solar power that seek to cover more than 60% of the electricity Honda uses in North America. Honda also promotes environmentally responsible business practices with its suppliers and retail dealer partners across North America. Learn more at https://csr.honda.com/environment/na-environmental-report/. About Electrify America Electrify America LLC, the largest open DC fast charging network in the U.S., is investing more than $2 billion in Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) infrastructure, and access. The investment will enable millions of Americans to discover the benefits of electric driving and support the build-out of a nationwide network of ultra-fast community and highway chargers that are convenient and reliable. Electrify America currently operates in 46 states and the District of Columbia, supporting increased ZEV adoption with a network that is comprehensive, technologically advanced and customer friendly. Electrify America earned the 2020 and 2021 EV Charging Infrastructure Best-in-Test award from umlaut, an infrastructure and benchmarking specialist, now part of Accenture, as published in Charged Electric Vehicles Magazine. Electrify Americas Electrify Home offers home charging solutions for consumers with flexible installation options. Electrify Commercial provides expert solutions for businesses looking to develop electric vehicle charging programs. For more information, visit media.electrifyamerica.com. About EVgo EVgo is a leader in charging solutions, building and operating the infrastructure and tools needed to expedite the mass adoption of electric vehicles for individual drivers, rideshare and commercial fleets, and businesses. Since 2019, EVgo has purchased renewable energy certificates to match the electricity that powers its network. As one of the nations largest public fast charging networks, EVgos owned and operated charging network includes around 900 fast charging locations, 60 metropolitan areas and 30 states. EVgo continues to add more DC fast charging locations across the U.S., including stations built through EVgo eXtend, its white label service offering. EVgo is accelerating transportation electrification through partnerships with automakers, fleet and rideshare operators, retail hosts such as grocery stores, shopping centers, and gas stations, policy leaders, and other organizations. With a rapidly growing network, robust software products and unique service offerings for drivers and partners including EVgo Optima, EVgo Inside, EVgo Rewards, and Autocharge+, EVgo enables a world-class charging experience where drivers live, work, travel and play. Description Registration is required for this free, virtual event: https://hubble.eventbrite.com Hamptons Observatory, and co-host Suffolk County Community College, are pleased to present a free, virtual lecture by Dr. Christopher T. Britt. The largest program in Hubbles history, the Ultraviolet Legacy Library of Young Stars as Essential Standards (ULLYSES), is laying the groundwork to understand the impact that young stars have on their environments, from the early universe to potentially habitable worlds. Understanding ultraviolet (UV) emission of high and low mass young stars is critical in order to make full use of the data coming in from the James Webb Space Telescope and other ground- and space-based observatories. The overarching goal is to provide a definitive data set on the first 10 million years of stellar evolution. Hubble will build a data set by gathering spectra, which spread light into its component wavelengths and reveal details about each stars size, temperature, speed, distance and composition. The Hubble Space Telescope provides our primary window into the UV and the ULLYSES program will leave a legacy that will support the exploration of a range of research topics for decades to come. Dr. Christopher T. Britt is the Education and Outreach Scientist at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI). He works on NASAs Universe of Learning and outreach for the Hubble and James Webb Space Telescopes, tying together science themes across multiple missions for the public that allows learners of all ages to directly engage with astrophysics. Prior to joining STScI, Dr. Britt was a post-doctoral researcher at Michigan State University and Texas Tech University, where his primary research focus was on compact binaries, where a compact object such as a white dwarf, neutron star, or black hole accretes material from a companion star through an accretion disk. Dr. Britt used multi-wavelength surveys of crowded regions to identify new compact object binaries in both the galactic field and in globular clusters. His research interests also include supernovae and supernova remnants. While this lecture is free, donations to support our programs are needed and deeply appreciated. To make a tax-deductible donation to support our mission, please visit www.HamptonsObservatory.org and click on Support Us. Thanks! Description The Good Feet Store, market-leading manufacturer and retailer of premium, personally fitted arch supports for every foot and lifestyle, is now open in Plainview! Local consumers looking to further invest in their health or those who experience foot, knee, hip, or back pain are invited to receive a FREE, ONE-ON-ONE IN-STORE FITTING and test walk with a trained specialist. The Good Feet Store offers a 3-step system of arch supports designed and engineered to ease not only foot pain, but pain in the back, knees, and hips as well. Perfect for anyone who spends time on their feet from the runner and walker, to healthcare worker and waiter these new storefronts will be a must-visit for anyone looking to prioritize their foot health and optimize their body alignment. In this article, we will be analyzing what ideal weather is. We will also be looking at the impact of this weather in the long term while covering the 15 countries that have the best weather in the world. If you wish to skip our detailed analysis, you can move directly to the 5 Countries That Have the Best Weather in the World. What Makes Weather Ideal? An ideal weather is a combination of various weather conditions. Ideal weather is usually characterized by a comfortable temperature which is neither very hot nor very cold, moderate rainfall throughout the year, high sunshine, consistent humidity, and moderate wind. If we stretch these conditions to a longer period of time, ideal weather would contribute to a stable climate that is more predictable and rarely offers extreme weather conditions. Impact of Climate Change on Weather Patterns Over the years, there have been less snow packed winters and longer lasting summers. These extreme weather patterns are a product of global warming. On September 14, NASA reported that the summer of 2023 was the hottest ever since 1880. June, July and August in 2023 were 0.23 degrees warmer than all previous summers recorded by NASA. While some parts of the world such as Greece, Italy and Central Europe experienced harsh rainfalls, Canada and Hawaii became subjected to wildfires. Some background research to uncover the true cause of the extreme weather suggests that it is a major result of greenhouse gas emissions and also partly driven by El-Nino, a warmer than normal sea surface temperature in the Central and Eastern Pacific Ocean, leading to droughts in countries such as Indonesia and Australia and cooler weather in the South West of the US. The HVAC Market and Major Players According to a report by Research and Markets, the global HVAC industry was valued at $225.5 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow to $309.62 billion by 2028, at a compound annual growth rate of 5.4% over the forecast period. Region wise, Asia Pacific dominates the market due to rising demand from residential and industrial customers. Another rapidly growing market for HVAC equipment is Europe since France and Germany are experiencing rapid urbanization and industrial development. Story continues Some of the dominant players in the global HVAC market include Johnsons Control International plc (NYSE:JCI), Lennox International Inc. (NYSE:LII) and Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE:CARR). Let's discuss them. Johnsons Control International plc (NYSE:JCI) contributes to weather resilient buildings by manufacturing HVAC equipment for them. The companys HVAC manufacturing facilities operate in different parts of the world to produce air conditioners, furnaces, and heat pumps for commercial use. On August 2, the company reported its earnings for the fiscal third quarter of 2023. The company reported earnings per share of $1.03, in line with the EPS estimates. The companys revenue for the quarter amounted to $7.1 billion, up 8% year over year. Lennox International Inc. (NYSE:LII) is another leading provider of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration equipment targeted at both residential and commercial customers. On September 21, the company reported that it has decided to focus on its North American operations by entering into an agreement to sell its European HVAC and refrigeration business to Syntagma Capital. The transaction is expected to be completed in the fiscal fourth quarter of 2023. Based in Florida, Carrier Global Corporation is a popular producer and distributor of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. The company continues to maintain its brand quality in the HVAC market. On September 15, the company reported that it has launched a 6,000-square-foot training center in Indianapolis. An annual additional capacity of 30,000 hours of training at the new center will enable the network of carrier distributors and factory-authorized dealers to install home HVAC systems in a proper and efficient manner thereby contributing to customer satisfaction. Now that we have discussed weather patterns and the HVAC industry, let's take a look at the 15 countries that have the best weather in the world. 15 Countries That Have the Best Weather in the World Pixabay/Public Domain Methodology In order to compile a list of the 15 countries that have the best weather in the world, we considered certain metrics that could help quantify pleasant weather in the most appropriate way. An ideal or best weather is the one which is typically moderate and safe from extreme temperatures, thereby tolerable and preferred by all body types. Since the research topic was broad and subjective, we hypothesized that pleasant weather is mainly characterized by wind which tends to lower the impact of humidity present in the atmosphere, making the temperature mild. Thus, our primary metric is the wind speed which should ideally be between 3 and 9 meters per second, according to experts. Thus, we screened countries with wind speeds in this range thereby depicting moderate weather conditions. The average wind speed, expressed in meters per second, was sourced from the World Wind Atlas, a product of the World Bank. Our secondary metric is the average annual surface air temperature measured in degrees Celsius. The annual average surface air temperature has been taken from the World Bank. This temperature is calculated by taking measurements of the average temperature of surface air in a country over one year. Thus, if this metric lies in a moderate range which is less than 25 degrees but not close to an absolute zero on the Celsius scale, the weather is typically considered moderate. The most recent data for average annual surface air temperatures was available from 2022. The 15 countries with the best weather in the world have been ranked in order of their wind speeds and annual average surface air temperature, on a priority basis. 15 Countries That Have the Best Weather in the World 15. Ecuador Average Wind Speed: 7.33 Meters Per Second Annual Average Surface Air Temperature: 21.07 Degrees Celsius The weather in Ecuador is ideal as it is consistent throughout the year. Since the country is at the equator, the sunshine is also steady and hence, these conditions make the country one of the places with the best weather in the world. 14. Nepal Average Wind Speed: 7.36 Meters Per Second Annual Average Surface Air Temperature: 14.39 Degrees Celsius There are different weather patterns across Nepal. In the south, there is a sub-tropical climate with a rainy season while the climate is temperate in low mountains. These patterns are pleasant to experience making the country one of the 15 countries with the best weather across the globe. 13. Portugal Average Wind Speed: 7.62 Meters Per Second Annual Average Surface Air Temperature: 16.9 Degrees Celsius Portugal is another country with pleasant weather. Summers are long yet winters are mild and most of the days are sunny making the country a top tourist destination in the world. 12. Jordan Average Wind Speed: 7.7 Meters Per Second Annual Average Surface Air Temperature: 19.77 Degrees Celsius The weather in Jordan is especially mild and pleasant from March to May and September to November. The skies are clear and most of the days have sunshine to offer, making the country an ideal place in terms of weather conditions. 11. Spain Average Wind Speed: 7.73 Meters Per Second Annual Average Surface Air Temperature: 15.3 Degrees Celsius Spain is one of the 15 countries that have the best weather in the world. This is evident from the fact that many expats in the country enjoy the overall experience due to the pleasant weather. Some of the top companies leading the global HVAC industry include Johnsons Control International plc (NYSE:JCI), Lennox International Inc. (NYSE:LII) and Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE:CARR). 10. Belgium Average Wind Speed: 7.99 Meters Per Second Annual Average Surface Air Temperature: 11.98 Degrees Celsius The winters are gentle while the summers are rather cool in Belgium. Thus, Belgium is another country with the most pleasant weather as there are fewer temperature variations and more moderate weather conditions. 9. Australia Average Wind Speed: 8.01 Meters Per Second Annual Average Surface Air Temperature: 21.96 Degrees Celsius Australia also qualifies for our list of the top 15 countries with the best weather in the world. This is because the weather conditions are favorable and not extreme throughout the year. 8. Switzerland Average Wind Speed: 8.07 Meters Per Second Annual Average Surface Air Temperature: 8.08 Degrees Celsius Switzerland has pleasant weather to offer as there is no excess of cold, heat, or humidity. Wind from the Atlantic results in a relatively milder climate in the country making it one of the places with the best weather in the world. 7. Croatia Average Wind Speed: 8.13 Meters Per Second Annual Average Surface Air Temperature: 13.16 Degrees Celsius Croatia is another country with good climatic conditions. Winters come with milder temperatures while summers are sunny and warm. There are no extreme temperatures in the country which attracts tourists from around the world. 6. Uruguay Average Wind Speed: 8.16 Meters Per Second Annual Average Surface Air Temperature: 17.73 Degrees Celsius As indicated by the moderate annual surface air temperature and a reasonable wind speed, Uruguay has pleasant weather which is fairly consistent throughout the year. Even the rainfall tends to be uniform throughout the year thereby making Uruguay one of the 15 countries with good weather in the world. For investors looking to increase their exposure to the global HVAC market, some stocks to consider include Johnsons Control International plc (NYSE:JCI), Lennox International Inc. (NYSE:LII) and Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE:CARR). Click to continue reading and see 5 Countries That Have the Best Weather in the World. Suggested articles: Disclosure: None. 15 Countries That Have the Best Weather in the World is originally published on Insider Monkey. Glenfiddich partners with trailblazing British designer Glenfiddich has announced an exclusive collaboration with fashion brand Ahluwalia to create a limited-edition jacket for bartenders. The luxury garment has been borne from Glenfiddichs close relationship with the UKs bartending community, with 150 jackets designed as a token of recognition and gratitude. For any fashion and whisky enthusiasts, Glenfiddich are also hosting a ballot on their website for five winners to own one of the jackets themselves. The gender-neutral jackets were designed by Ahluwalia, utilising vintage, recycled and sustainable fabrics and garments. It features the brands iconic wave pattern along with the original map of the Glenfiddich distillery in Dufftown, Scotland. The map is printed on satin and sits on both the front and back of the jacket. Commenting on the collaboration, Glenfiddich brand ambassador Mark Thomson commented: Glenfiddich is always looking for ways to push the limits of whats expected from a whisky brand. Similarly, Priya has been breaking boundaries in the fashion industry so partnering with her and the Ahluwalia brand for this first-of-its-kind fashion partnership for Glenfiddich UK made perfect sense. We want to use this partnership and the stunning jacket she has designed to say thank you to the bartending community as we head into what will be the busiest quarter of the year for the ontrade; a garment that not only looks great but perfectly embraces Glenfiddichs rich history. Founder and creative director Priya Ahluwalia added: Being able to immerse myself in the history and character of Glenfiddich whilst up at the distillery was an integral part of the creative process. I wanted to create something that was true to the Ahluwalia world aesthetic, whilst incorporating Glenfiddichs history, but most importantly championed its drive to innovate and look forward. Weve used the original distillery map as the base design as the centrepiece of the jacket then combined traditional and contemporary materials to represent the brands modern values. 28 September 2023 - Bradley Weir Bank-wise strikes from December 4: AIBEA Business Reporter Bank employees have threatened that they would be going on strike from December 4 to 11, 2023 if their demands are not met by the Government. The bank employees are demanding adequate recruitments and opposing outsourcing of regular jobs by the Government. This was revealed by C H Venkatachalam, General Secretary, All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA) in a press release issued here. Apart from this, there would be 2 days continuous All India strikes from January 2 to 6, 2024. In the recent years, the number of customers of the banks has increased manifold while the total volume of business has gone up enormously resulting unbearable workload on bank employees. Under such circumstance, there is no adequate recruitment in banks. The vacancies arising out of retirements, promotions, deaths, etc., are not being filled up. Additional staff is not being provided in branches to cope up with the increase in business, said C H Venkatachalam. In the name of financial inclusion, more than 50 crore Jan Dhan Yojana accounts have been opened by public sector banks (PSBs). All the Government schemes also adds to the workload on the employees in the branches. This acute shortage of staff in the branches is adversely affecting the satisfactory customer services and due to lack of adequate staff, employees are unable to extend proper service to the customers, he said. Similarly, there is an attempt to outsource the regular and permanent jobs in the banks on contractual basis with a view to avoid the payment of wages as per the Bipartite Settlement. Hence, AIBEA has given the call for agitational programme which include following strike actions: On December 4, All India strike in PNB, Punjab & Sind Bank and SBI; December 5, All India Strike in Bank of Baroda and Bank of India; December 6, All India strike in Canara Bank and Central Bank of India, December 7, All India strike in Indian Bank and UCO Bank; December 8, All India strike in Union Bank of India and Bank of Maharashtra; December 11, All India strike in all private banks. Similarly, AIBEA has given a strike call on January 2, 2024 by all employees of all banks in Tamilnadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Puducherry, Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshwadeep; January 3, strike by all employees of all banks in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Dadar, Daman, Diu; January 4, strike by all employees of all banks in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh; January 5, strike by all employees of all banks in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, J&K, Ladak, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh; January 6, West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, Assam, Tripura, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim.Also on January 19 and 20, 2024 a two days continuous All India strike in all banks. Hence, we appeal to the people at large and banking public to extend their support to our demand and agitation, said C H Venkatachalam. Big Role To Play By Dr Arun Mitra THE declaration on health at the G20 summit has highlighted several objectives. These include Food security; pandemic preparedness; equitable access to vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics, and other medical countermeasures. Concern was shown for growing Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), Mental health problems and the impact of climate change on health. The declaration also gives importance to the potential role of evidence-based Traditional and Complementary Medicine. The summit took up serious debate over the increasing use of narcotics around the world. Against this background the declaration emphasised that to achieve better health of the citizens, the global health architecture is to be strengthened. Since nutrition is the basic requirement for health, it is important to gauge the status of nutrition around the world and in our country. As many as 828 million people were undernourished in 2021 globally. Poverty, inequality, inadequate governance, poor infrastructure, and low agricultural productivity contribute to chronic hunger and vulnerability. South of the Sahara in Africa and South Asia are the regions with the highest hunger levels and are most vulnerable to future shocks and crises. According to Bhavani R V, the UN Food and Agriculture Organisations (FAO) report on Food Security and nutrition in the world puts the number of people undernourished in India in 2019-21 at 224.3 million i.e., 16% of 1.4 billion population. India is 107 among 121 countries in the Global Hunger Index (GHI). The countries which fall below this are Sierra Leone, Uganda, Djibouti, Congo Rep., Sudan, Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, Timor-leste, Haiti, Liberia, Zambia, Madagascar, Chad, Yemen Rep. and Central African Republic. The countries of the global south need food security for their citizens, but under the neoliberal economic policies and the diktats of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), many countries had to dismantle programmes for food security. This has adversely affected nutritional status of the people. Situation is so pathetic that in India 800 million people were provided with 5 Kg of grain and one Kilo of cereals. This may fill their stomach but lacks the micro nutrients essential for physical and mental growth. Equity in the supply of medicines, vaccines and other countermeasures has been a big challenge. The big vaccine producing companies exploited the situation during COVID Pandemic. They even forced the small counties to mortgage properties of their embassies as a guarantee for the supply of vaccines. These vaccine making companies made huge profits at the cost of human needs. Pfizer made nearly $37 bn (27 bn) in sales from its COVID-19 vaccine in 2021 making it one of the most lucrative products in history. The US drug makers overall revenues in 2021 doubled to $81.3 bn says Julia Kollewe in the article published in The Guardian on 8th February 2022. The Indian Governments free-market approach to vaccine distribution too has ensured profit to the companies over lives of the people. Aparna Gopalan in an article in The Intercept published on 19th June 2021 has pointed out that for each dose sold to private hospitals, Serum made profits of up to 2,000 % and Bharat Biotech up to 4,000 per cent, what might be considered as super profits. In India, 38 new billionaires were minted in the first year of the pandemic, while the combined wealth of the countrys 140 billionaires went up by 90.4 %. In the G20 there is ample opportunity for India to highlight the health problems facing the developing world in general and India in particular. This is also time to set the direction for global equity in health care. As per the WHO there were 6,943,390 deaths globally till 14th June 2023. Unofficial figures could be even higher! During the pandemic, the problem of unavailability of drugs, equipment and vaccines has been very acute. With Africa inducted into the G20 there is a good chance to develop communication between India, Africa nations, Argentina and Brazil to forcefully take up the matter of bringing changes in the TRIPS. The developing countries should exchange the technical knowhow to check mate the pressures from the developed world. The clause of compulsory licencing in the WTO should be used more frequently. Finance allocation to health in our country has to be increased substantially. It has been hovering around 1.2% of the GDP as against the minimum required of 6%. Allocation to R&D in health has to be increased. There is need to revive the manufacture of drugs, vaccines and medical equipment in the public sector so as to produce them at lower cost with quality control. Health education of the people on scientific grounds is important so that they do not fall prey to the unscientific, non-evidence based treatment modalities. To ensure equitable health services it is important to take bold initiatives. State should own the responsibility of healthcare to its citizens. Insurance based healthcare benefits only the insurance companies. Senior citizens are worst effected in such cases as they are unable to pay hefty premiums. India can play a big role if our approach is not limited to mere electoral gimmickry. Time only will tell whether the Indian Government stands up to its commitment. The civil society however should continue to put pressure. (IPA) Chhattisgarh Government withdraws plea from SC challenging EDs action in money laundering case NEW DELHI, THE Chhattisgarh Government on Wednesday withdrew from the Supreme Court its plea challenging on the ground of jurisdiction the Enforcement Directorates action against state Government officials in a money laundering case. The money laundering case lodged in 2022 stems from an FIR registered on a complaint by the Income Tax department over allegations of illegal collection of levy on coal as well as attempts to influence public servants through corrupt means in Chhattisgarh. The federal anti-money laundering agency claimed a massive scam took place between 2019 and 2021 in coal transportation in Chhattisgarh as part of which a cartel of politicians, officers and others was allegedly running a parallel system of extorting illegal levy. In its plea, the Chhattisgarh Government claimed the ED, on the basis of the FIR lodged in Bengaluru, registered an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) in Raipur on September 29, 2022 and started an investigation against state Government officials. Chhattisgarh standing counsel Sumeer Sodhi told a bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and SVN Bhatti on Wednesday he has instructions to withdraw the plea. The bench allowed the state Government to withdraw the petition and recorded Sodhis submission. The petition prayed the court to declare the EDs action illegal, without jurisdiction and unconstitutional. The Chhattisgarh Government, apart from seeking quashing of the ECIR, also urged the apex court to declare all subsequent actions by the ED with regard to the probe arbitrary and unconstitutional as they interfered with the functions of the state police. The Chhattisgarh Government alleged the investigation by the ED resulted in indiscriminate surveys and raids at various departments and offices of the state Government, and arrest of state officials. The state Government had earlier this year filed a suit challenging the constitutional validity of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) alleging that central investigating agencies are being misused to intimidate, harass and disturb the normal functioning of the non-BJP state Government. The Bhupesh Baghel-led Congress Government filed the original suit challenging the law under Article 131 of the Constitution which empowers a state to move the Supreme Court directly in matters of dispute with the Centre or any other state. Chhattisgarh became the first state to challenge the money laundering act. Earlier, private individuals and parties challenged the law on various grounds but its validity was upheld by a three-judge bench of the apex court last year. City police on toes as Eid,Anant Chaturdashi coincide Staff Reporter The city police force is on a high alert to ensure peaceful festivities as Anant Chaturdashi and Eid-e-Miladunnabi align on Thursday. The cops have launched stringent security measures to ensure a safe and peaceful celebrations in the city for both the occasions. Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) have been entrusted with the responsibility of separate areas for peaceful celebrations. The police personnel would be on the streets for almost 48 hours for bandobast for Ganpati Visarjan and Eid processions. Originally planned for Friday, the Eid procession will now take place on Thursday. The main Eid procession would pass from Seva Sadan to Mominpura along with smaller processions originating from various areas and culminate in the main procession. DCP level officers will lead to oversee all processions upto the main procession to ensure safety. DCP Detection Mummaka Sudarshan and DCP Zone III Gorakh Bhamre will oversee the main procession while other DCPs will handle different processions. After the Eid procession, the police will quickly engage in bandobast for Ganpati Visarjan. DMIHER to hold National Conclave for Medical Educators today Business Reporter DATTA Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research (DMIHER), Deemed to be University, Wardha will be hosting a National Conclave for Medical Educators and launch of the Association of Medical Educators of India on September 28, 2023. India, home to over 700 medical schools with an annual intake exceeding 1,02,000 for undergraduate MBBS and over 65,000 for postgraduate speciality courses, stands as the worlds largest producer of trained health professionals. India, despite its substantial capacity and expertise, has yet to make a tangible mark globally in medical education. This observation comes from international programmes across continents, notably the Indian Medical Science Education programme within the International Chair in Bioethics, UNESCO Chairs Department of Education. Each medical school/college in India is earnestly invited to participate through its Dean or their nominee. The conclave will provide a platform to discuss and shape the proposed Association of Medical Educators of India. The conclave will be held in a hybrid mode and will feature distinguished luminaries, including Prof Ricardo Leon-Borquez, President, World President of Medical Education; Prof Ronald Harden, Editor In Chief, Medical Teacher, AMEE; Dr William Pinsky, President ECFMG, FAIMER; Professor Dr Vedprakash Mishra, Pro-Chancellor DMIHER, and Dr Russell DSouza, Head & Chair, Asia Pacific Division; Director, International Department of Education, International Chair in Bioethics, Melbourne, Australia. First foreign aircraft reaches MIHAN-SEZ for maintenance Business Reporter M/s Air India Engineering Services Limited (AIESL), MIHAN-SEZ, has recently entered into a contract with Kuwait Airways for the repair and maintenance of a total of four aircraft. This marks another milestone for MIHAN as Nagpur proudly welcomed its first aircraft of Kuwait Airways on September 15, 2023. The first of these Kuwait Airways Boeing 777 aircraft is currently undergoing advanced-level maintenance procedures at MIHAN-SEZ. Upon completion of the maintenance process, the aircraft is scheduled to depart on October 1. The same day, two more aircraft are expected to arrive, one in the morning and another in the afternoon, by ferry flight. The remaining aircraft are anticipated to arrive within a span of 15-20 days. The Air India MRO has received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval. With this approval, the C-check procedure of the aircraft will be carried out. While talking to The Hitavada with the Development Commissioner, MIHAN-SEZ, Dr V Sraman said, This is another feather in the cap for MIHAN. With this significant development, it is expected that these aircraft will be first of many foreign aircraft to choose MIHAN-SEZ as their destination for maintenance and repair. Dr V Sraman also said, This achievement signifies not only the growth of our SEZ but also the trust that global aviation players are placing in our capabilities. We are committed to providing world-class services and facilities. We look forward to welcoming more international partners in the future. MIHAN-SEZ is poised to become a hub for aviation maintenance and repair in the region. Fresh clash along Assam-Meghalaya interstate border, one injured SHILLONG/DIPHU, ONE person was injured in a clash at a disputed area along the Assam-Meghalaya interstate border as locals from both sides used bows and arrows and catapults to attack each other, officials said on Wednesday. The incident occurred on Tuesday in the disputed place along the boundary between the Lapangap village in Meghalayas West Jaintia Hills district and the Tapat area under the Hamren subdivision of West Karbi Anglong district of Assam. A person from Karbi Anglong district was injured, while no one from the Meghalaya side was seriously hurt in the incident, officials said. The situation was brought under control after police teams from both states visited the spot and placated the locals. The situation remained calm but tense on Wednesday morning as a fresh clash between the villagers from both sides was reported, an official from Meghalaya said. Some huts belonging to Khasi farmers in Lapangap were also burnt down, escalating tension in the area, a senior official of West Jaintia Hills district told PTI. Police forces from both states prevented villagers from congregating at the spot where the clashes occurred, he said. We are coordinating with our counterparts in Assams West Karbi Anglong district to keep the situation under control, the official said. Lapangap village elder (Waheh Shnong) Deimonmi Lyngdoh claimed that farmers tending to their paddy fields were attacked with catapults, bows and arrows by people from Assam who were hiding near the fields. Learning about the attack, around 250-300 people from our village went to the spot and retaliated with bows and arrows and catapults, with the tension lasting the entire day yesterday, he said. The Lapangap village elder urged the district administration to provide protection to them. Justice should be easy, accessible and fast: President Legal Correspondent President Droupadi Murmu said that justice in the country should be easy, accessible and fast. President Murmu said that justice should not become so expensive that it goes out of reach of the common man. For this, there is a need to strengthen institutional efforts. With this belief, if the Nyay Bhavan is ready, it will give new energy to the judges, lawyers and employees to perform their duties together. President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday laid the foundation stone for the new sprawling High Court building in IIITDM campus. The President said I have had earlier said that the people of the judiciary and the police should think and find a solution for those who are in jail for minor crimes. This is the country of Panch Parmeshwar. I believe that the dispute resolution system should be further strengthened. This will also reduce the burden on the judiciary. Murmu said that todays foundation stone laying is an important step. For this I congratulate the CM of Madhya Pradesh and the officials of the High Court. Today, there are pending cases and under trial cases before the judiciary. According to an estimate, 4.5 crore cases are pending in the lower courts of the country. Many of these are pending for 20 to 30 years. I have been told that a special campaign has been started in Madhya Pradesh to settle the pending cases. In her address, President Murmu said that I am very happy to be in Jabalpur situated on the holy banks of Narmada. Murmu said that this building is the need of the hour. I am told that the new building will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, it is proposed to have court rooms for judges and chief justices, conference rooms, a separate room for lawyers and also for women advocates. Women empowerment is important for India. Judiciary is also a part of the society, that is why I feel that there should be proper participation of women here also. A woman has a nursing sense of justice. That is why it is said that a mother does not discriminate between her children. The process of giving justice is not according to any mathematical formula. Therefore, participation of women in the judicial system will also be beneficial in the judiciary. Murmu also mentioned a case of Jabalpur court, which is remembered even today. Governor Mangubhai Patel said that the countrymen are proud of the judiciary. We all respect the integrity of the judiciary. In this article, we will take a look at the 16 countries where population will fall by 2030. To skip our detailed analysis, go directly to 5 Countries Where Population Will Fall by 2030. The World Population Outlook by 2050 A report by the United Nations highlights that Earth will be home to 9.7 billion people by 2050. Countries like India and Sub-Saharan Africa are expected to experience magnificent growth in their population. In fact, India is expected to take over the number one spot with the largest population in the world by 2027. The report also highlights the 9 countries expected to experience the largest growth in their population in the next 30 years. These include India, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Indonesia, Egypt, and the United States of America. However, the global birth rate is expected to slow down with every passing decade. The average number of births per woman dropped to 2.5 in 2019 from 3.2 in 1990. Additionally, the birth rate per woman is expected to decrease to 2.2 births per woman by 2050. The report suggests that a fertility level of at least 2.1 births per woman must prevail to maintain the current population level. Twenty-seven countries have already experienced a decline in their population due to falling fertility rates. By 2050, the United Nations expects 55 countries to experience a decline in their population; for some, the drop may be as large as 10%. Ukraine: A Case on The Implications of a Declining Population Declining birth rates are not the only reason for this phenomenon. Factors such as increasing immigration from a country, natural disasters, and wars tend to produce similar outcomes. For instance, the recent Ukraine-Russia conflict has immensely shaped the population demographic of Ukraine. On August 1, BBC reported that the war had led to a 28% decline in the birth rate in Ukraine. Additionally, 6 million people have fled from the country to reside in other countries in the Eurozone. Story continues The implications of a declining population may have a range of consequences for economies like Ukraine. On July 7, Reuters reported how the war has left people with new challenges. These include having to rebuild the country from scratch while maintaining a certain standard of living. With millions of people fleeing from the country, bringing back or maintaining the pre-war standard of living is even more challenging; or close to impossible. The report discusses a living example of a woman, Natalka Korzh, a TV director, who had her life figured out in her newly built house before the war broke out. She had to escape to protect herself and her family from the war. She shifted to Portugal and does not plan to return to Ukraine even after the guns settle. According to the report, only one out of 10 people intend to return to Ukraine after the war subsides. The significant loss of the working population in Ukraine is detrimental to the country's economic recovery. Additionally, a major cause of concern for economists and businesspersons alike is the possible shortage of skilled labor in the long run. Volodymyr Kostiuk, CEO of Farmak, one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the country, suggested that the company needed more skilled laboratory workers to make enough revenue. He indicated that efforts to bring people back must be made to prevent business loss as it may harm the economy once the war subsides. Moreover, a poll conducted by a Ukrainian think-tank, the Institute for Economic Research and Political Studies suggested that of 500 businesses, one-third saw labor shortages as a key challenge post-war. Maintaining a certain level of population growth is important for the economic progress of a country. Without enough young and skilled labor, it is close to impossible for a country to grow and establish itself as a strong unit. Countries and their respective cities showing promising signs of population growth are also among the cities with the fastest growing economies. How Does a Growing Population Benefit Africa? On the other end of the spectrum, Africa shows promising signs of population growth in the coming years. In fact, according to the report by the United Nations, the population of Sub-Saharan Africa is expected to double by 2050. Check out countries with the highest rates of population growth. The African region has one of the world's most human and natural resources. Its young population is only expected to grow and accelerate in the next few decades, showing promising signs for the African economy. A report by McKinsey Global Institute, published on June 5, discusses the opportunities for the African economy. According to the report, the region experienced poor economic growth between 2010 to 2019. The COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine-Russia conflict only worsened matters for the African economy. However, certain countries and cities within the region have shown promising signs due to investment in innovation. These include Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, to name a few. The report also highlights that African countries are rapidly adapting to develop a large tertiary or service industry. The report suggests that employment in the services industry increased from 30% to 39% in 2019. Moreover, the services sector contributed to 49% of the region's economic output in 2019, followed by 50% in 2020. The report builds on the narrative that to boost the African economy to new heights, African economies must exploit opportunities within this sector. With that, let's see major companies driving the African economy. These include Naspers Limited (OTC:NPSNY), MTN Group Limited (OTC:MTNOY), and Vodacom Group Limited (OTC:VDMCY). Naspers Limited (OTC:NPSNY) is a technology, internet, and multimedia multinational in South Africa. Naspers Limited (OTC:NPSNY) owns the famous global investment group Prosus N.V. (OTC:PROSY). On September 12, Naspers Limited (OTC:NPSNY) announced the launch of the company's new generative AI tool by Prosus N.V. (OTC:PROSY). PlusOne is a generative tool used by the company internally. The tool integrates with existing systems used by the company, such as Slack, to enhance efficiency and communication. MTN Group Limited (OTC:MTNOY) is a multinational mobile telecommunications industry in South Africa. The company is not only a harbor of growth for the African economy; in fact, MTN Group Limited (OTC:MTNOY) is also big on corporate social responsibility. Incorporating CSR gives the company a big name in the international market. On September 20, the company announced that the Africa-America Institute awarded MTN Group Limited (OTC:MTNOY) the 2023 corporate social responsibility award. To shed light on the growing need for companies to invest in technology while also maintaining their responsibility to society, the CEO and MTN Group President, Ralph Mupita, stated: "These people are still not digitally connected and could well end up as a digital underclass. We must ensure that as technologies such as AI develop, we also get large language models trained in African languages. Initiatives such as conversational payments that are taking root in places like India must come rapidly to Africa." To add to the importance of sustainability, MTN Group's Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer Nompilo Morafo stated: "Our business has always been about more than connectivity; it's about empowering communities, driving inclusion, championing diversity, and ensuring that our operations leave a positive, lasting impact." Vodacom Group Limited (OTC:VDMCY) is a mobile communications company based in South Africa. The company is continuously striving to enhance mobile usage and connectivity in Africa. On September 21, the company reported that Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal invested over ZAR 1 billion to enhance user network connectivity. Of this budget, almost ZAR 700 million will be directed towards projects related to radio access networks and network capacity upgrades. Moreover, ZAR 173 million will be allocated to enhancing the core mobile network infrastructure. To shed light on the investment by Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal, Imran Khan, managing executive at Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal, stated: "In pursuing our aim of creating an inclusive digital society, we are making a significant investment into the region's network. By expanding access to reliable, quality connectivity by deploying more sites and network upgrades, we aim to provide an exceptional network experience to our customers. With this effort, we hope to bring the benefits of digitalization to all communities we serve." Countries with a growing population immensely benefit in economic terms. A larger population indicates that the country is home to a large but young working population. However, with limited resources left to support future generations, countries must be able to maintain a balanced population. Let's discuss the 16 countries where population will fall by 2030. 16 Countries Where Population Will Fall by 2030 Copyright: rawpixel / 123RF Stock Photo Our Methodology We sourced data from the UN population data portal for our article, 16 countries where the population will fall by 2030. The UN data portal has information for all countries, territories, and Islands. The database incorporates a range of metrics surrounding gender, age, use of contraceptives, and birth rates, among others. For our methodology, we acquired the population level in 1990, followed by the forecasted population in 2030. Using these two figures, we calculated the population growth rate between 1990 and 2030. It is to be noted that all the values are estimates extracted from the UN data portal. For countries with the same rate of population decline, we ranked them in alphabetical order. All countries with a negative growth rate were included in the list below. The list is in ascending order of the countries' respective population drops. 16 Countries Where Population Will Fall by 2030 16. Japan Population in 1990: 124 Million Expected Population in 2030: 119 Million Population Drop: 4.03% Japan is expected to experience one of the largest declines in population by 2030. A higher death rate compared to a birth rate along with a large aging population are primary reasons for the decline. While Japan is expected to experience a drop in population, Africa's population is expected to surge. Some of the top companies leading the African economy include Naspers Limited (OTC:NPSNY), MTN Group Limited (OTC:MTNOY), and Vodacom Group Limited (OTC:VDMCY). 15. Russia Population in 1990: 148 Million Expected Population in 2030: 141 Million Population Drop: 4.73% A large number of abortions coupled with a high death rate and a declining life expectancy rate are all factors contributing to the possible decline in population in the Russian Federation. 14. Belarus Population in 1990: 10 Million Expected Population in 2030: 9 Million Population Drop: 10% Belarus is among the countries that are expected to experience the largest decline in population by 2030. Primary reasons for this decline include low birth rates, high mortality rates, high outflow of migrants, and a declining fertility rate. Moreover, the country has been dealing with a huge child mortality crisis since the Chernobyl accident in 1986. 13. Serbia Population in 1990: 8 Million Expected Population in 2030: 7 Million Population Drop: 12.5% Serbia is among the countries that are expected to experience the largest decline in population by 2030. Primary reasons for this decline include low birth rates, high mortality rates, high outflow of migrants, and a declining fertility rate. The population of Serbia could further drop to 5.8 million by 2050. 12. Romania Population in 1990: 23 Million Expected Population in 2030: 19 Million Population Drop: 17.39% Romania is currently dealing with a huge population issue. Declining birth rates coupled with a high mortality rate and an aging population are among the primary reasons for the expected population drop by 2030. 11. Georgia Population in 1990: 5 Million Expected Population in 2030: 4 Million Population Drop: 20% Georgia is among the countries that are expected to experience the largest decline in population by 2030. Primary reasons for this decline include low birth rates, high mortality rates, high outflow of migrants, and a declining fertility rate. 10. Croatia Population in 1990: 5 Million Expected Population in 2030: 4 Million Population Drop: 20% Wartime human losses combined with a declining birth rate are the primary reasons for the current decline in the population of Croatia. The country is expected to experience a 20% drop in population by 2030 as compared to 1990. 9. Puerto Rico Population in 1990: 4 Million Expected Population in 2030: 3 Million Population Drop: 25% Puerto Rico is expected to experience one of the largest declines in population by 2030. A higher death rate compared to a birth rate along with a large number of emigrants are primary reasons for the decline. 8. Republic of Moldova Population in 1990: 4 Million Expected Population in 2030: 3 Million Population Drop: 25% High levels of emigration have long been a primary concern for the Republic of Moldova. The country is expected to experience a 25% drop in population by 2030 as compared to 1990. 7. Lithuania Population in 1990: 4 Million Expected Population in 2030: 3 Million Population Drop: 25% Lithuania is expected to experience the largest decline in population by 2030. A higher death rate compared to a birth rate along with a large number of emigrants are primary reasons for the decline. 6. Bosnia and Herzegovina Population in 1990: 4 Million Expected Population in 2030: 3 Million Population Drop: 25% A declining birth rate combined with an aging population has contributed to the rank of Bosnia and Herzegovina among the countries expected to experience a major drop in population by 2030. While some countries are expected to experience a huge drop in their populations, Africa is expected to undergo healthy population growth. For investors looking to increase their exposure to the African market, some stocks they can look up include Naspers Limited (OTC:NPSNY), MTN Group Limited (OTC:MTNOY), and Vodacom Group Limited (OTC:VDMCY). Click to continue reading and see 5 Countries Where Population Will Fall by 2030. Suggested Articles: Disclosure. None. 16 Countries Where Population Will Fall by 2030 is originally published on Insider Monkey. Pro-Khalistanis in Canada luring gullible Sikh youth by sponsoring visas NEW DELHI, PRO-KHALISTAN elements based in Canada have been luring gullible Sikh youth to the North American country by sponsoring their visa with the sole objective of using them to carry out their agenda on Canadian soil, sources said. The sources said Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, whose killing has led to a row between India and Canada, and other individuals like Moninder Singh Bual, Parminder Pangli, Bhagat Singh Brar have been using the lured Sikh youth to carry out their pro-Khalistan agenda from Canadian soil. However, they faced shortage of foot soldiers due to lack of support in the diaspora. This demand and supply matrix was exploited by pro-Khalistan extremists in Canada who came out with a novel idea of sponsoring gullible Sikh youth from Punjab for medium-skilled jobs like plumber, truck drivers or religious work like Sewadars and Pathis and Ragis in gurudwaras controlled by them. These pro-Khalistan extremists sponsor visas of such Punjabi youth and visits to Canada in lieu of exploiting them for doing pro-Khalistan activities in Canada like participating in anti-India protests and programmes and conducting radical-religious congregations, sources said. Illegal immigrants in Canada and students, who have completed their studies in Canada but have not been able to find suitable jobs, are the most susceptible. Pro-Khalistan extremists offer them shelter and low scale jobs for sustenance using gurudwara resources, they said. These indebted youth join the Khalistan brigade in Canada willingly or unwillingly. When ISI backed Khalistani group Sikhs For Justice was finding difficult to get support for its anti-India campaign Punjab Independence Referendum, Nijjar and his friends used these foot soldiers to give an impression that their campaign was successful. It is easier for these pro-Khalistan extremists to now get more and more such people as they control over 30 gurudwaras in Brampton. STRAIGHT TALK THE straight talk by Minister of External Affairs Dr. S. Jaishankar at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is probably the best moment of Indian diplomacy after the stupendous success of the recent G20 Leaders Summit in New Delhi. Considered against the background of the current tensions between India and Canada due to immature leadership of Prime Minister Mr. Justin Trudeau, Dr. Jaishankars speech comes as a great symbolism of Indian position on various global issues. It highlights the manner in which India has been asserting itself in global discourse and is being heard with much attention by the whole world. Dr. Jaishankars insistence upon every nation respecting other nations territorial integrity and sovereign interests is a good reflection of the stand India has often taken without any wavering for decades on end. There is no doubt that the diplomat-turned-politician Dr. Jaishankar made his and Indias point very effectively. But more important in Dr. Jaishankars speech than the Canadian mishandling of the Khalistan issue was the issue of making the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) a more inclusive platform. He made it clear that if the UNSC were to assume a greater importance as the nucleus of global transformation, then it was imperative for the world body to usher appropriate reforms in its mandate and method as well as in its core. Dr. Jaishankar cited the example G20 under Indian presidency when the African Union with 55 members of its own was invited to join the grouping. The UN must take that leaf out of G20 book spearheaded by India and learn right lessons, Dr. Jaishankar insisted. That was one point that the United Nations can hardly afford to miss in the forward trajectory. The success of the Indian presidency of G20 can be judged from the fact that the proposal could win the favour of all other member-States. Each member-State agreed with the Indian stance of greater inclusiveness. This aspect of Dr. Jaishankars speech was appreciated at the UNGA meeting simply because of its thoughtfulness. There was no bragging or overstating the fact of Indias success. Yet, Dr. Jaishankar could communicate to the UNGA the simple fact that the world was looking forward to such an inclusiveness. The theme that UNs member-nations should give up politics of convenience as regards support or opposition to terrorism, has been an old one. Yet, Dr. Jaishankars felicity of language could make the point very effectively once more for the country. The world is far too complex in its current condition of conflicts and erosion of mutual trust. In such a world, what is needed is a conscious effort to respect every countrys interests without having to undermine ones own. India has been insisting upon this for years. So, when Dr. Jaishankar made his point, he was actually only highlighting what India has been saying all along. Yet, manner in which Dr. Jaishankar delivered that straight talk won a universal appreciation at the UNGA meeting. Dr. Jaishankars speech, thus, underlined an important aspect of the current global situation in which an effort is needed to be made by all to create an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust. This has been Indias stand all along. Since he took over national leadership, Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, too, has been making extra-special efforts to highlight this stand over and over again -- with remarkable success. As the longest serving leader of a democratic polity in the world, Mr. Modis word has assumed a great importance. In tune with that position, Dr. S. Jaishankar made Indias stance clear to the world in a very well-delivered speech at the UNGA. By any definition, that speech will go down as a tremendously purposeful statement. HM Payson & Co. cut its holdings in shares of The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG Free Report) by 1.0% during the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 246,005 shares of the companys stock after selling 2,385 shares during the quarter. HM Payson & Co.s holdings in Procter & Gamble were worth $37,329,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Silicon Valley Capital Partners acquired a new position in Procter & Gamble in the 4th quarter valued at $28,000. GW&K Investment Management LLC acquired a new position in Procter & Gamble in the 1st quarter valued at $28,000. IAG Wealth Partners LLC grew its holdings in shares of Procter & Gamble by 58.8% during the 1st quarter. IAG Wealth Partners LLC now owns 243 shares of the companys stock worth $36,000 after purchasing an additional 90 shares in the last quarter. Kepos Capital LP acquired a new stake in shares of Procter & Gamble during the 4th quarter worth $38,000. Finally, Ten Capital Wealth Advisors LLC grew its holdings in shares of Procter & Gamble by 325.8% during the 1st quarter. Ten Capital Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 264 shares of the companys stock worth $39,000 after purchasing an additional 202 shares in the last quarter. 63.43% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Procter & Gamble alerts: Insider Transactions at Procter & Gamble In other news, CAO Matthew W. Janzaruk sold 33,022 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, August 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $156.26, for a total transaction of $5,160,017.72. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief accounting officer now directly owns 888 shares in the company, valued at $138,758.88. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. In related news, CAO Matthew W. Janzaruk sold 33,022 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, August 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $156.26, for a total transaction of $5,160,017.72. Following the completion of the sale, the chief accounting officer now owns 888 shares of the companys stock, valued at $138,758.88. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, insider Susan Street Whaley sold 884 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, August 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $154.49, for a total value of $136,569.16. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 8,073 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,247,197.77. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 106,607 shares of company stock worth $16,523,793 over the last ninety days. 0.17% of the stock is owned by insiders. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several research firms have recently issued reports on PG. Wells Fargo & Company increased their target price on Procter & Gamble from $165.00 to $170.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Monday, July 31st. Stifel Nicolaus increased their target price on Procter & Gamble from $155.00 to $161.00 in a report on Monday, July 31st. Bank of America increased their target price on Procter & Gamble from $170.00 to $175.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, August 1st. Royal Bank of Canada increased their target price on Procter & Gamble from $165.00 to $167.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a report on Monday, July 31st. Finally, StockNews.com downgraded Procter & Gamble from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, September 16th. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and thirteen have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $165.61. Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Procter & Gamble Procter & Gamble Price Performance Procter & Gamble stock opened at $147.33 on Thursday. The company has a current ratio of 0.63, a quick ratio of 0.44 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.53. The company has a market capitalization of $347.30 billion, a PE ratio of 24.97, a P/E/G ratio of 3.40 and a beta of 0.42. The Procter & Gamble Company has a 12 month low of $122.18 and a 12 month high of $158.38. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $153.73 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $151.01. Procter & Gamble (NYSE:PG Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Friday, July 28th. The company reported $1.37 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.32 by $0.05. Procter & Gamble had a return on equity of 32.88% and a net margin of 17.87%. The firm had revenue of $20.60 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $20.01 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $1.21 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 5.6% on a year-over-year basis. Analysts expect that The Procter & Gamble Company will post 6.38 EPS for the current year. Procter & Gamble Dividend Announcement The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, August 15th. Stockholders of record on Friday, July 21st were given a dividend of $0.9407 per share. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, July 20th. This represents a $3.76 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.55%. Procter & Gambles dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 63.73%. About Procter & Gamble (Free Report) The Procter & Gamble Company provides branded consumer packaged goods worldwide. It operates through five segments: Beauty; Grooming; Health Care; Fabric & Home Care; and Baby, Feminine & Family Care. The Beauty segment offers conditioners, shampoos, styling aids, and treatments under the Head & Shoulders, Herbal Essences, Pantene, and Rejoice brands; and antiperspirants and deodorants, personal cleansing, and skin care products under the Olay, Old Spice, Safeguard, Secret, and SK-II brands. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Procter & Gamble Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Procter & Gamble and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Home Federal Bank of Tennessee lessened its holdings in Chevron Co. (NYSE:CVX Free Report) by 2.1% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 13,035 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after selling 280 shares during the quarter. Chevron makes up 0.7% of Home Federal Bank of Tennessees holdings, making the stock its 22nd largest holding. Home Federal Bank of Tennessees holdings in Chevron were worth $2,051,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Morgan Stanley grew its position in shares of Chevron by 12.7% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 32,906,060 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $5,906,309,000 after buying an additional 3,711,923 shares in the last quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC grew its position in shares of Chevron by 104,997.3% during the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 24,490,824 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $4,395,858,000 after buying an additional 24,467,521 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. grew its position in shares of Chevron by 76.5% during the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 23,667,484 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $3,839,241,000 after buying an additional 10,257,980 shares in the last quarter. Norges Bank bought a new position in shares of Chevron during the 4th quarter worth $3,058,235,000. Finally, Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD grew its position in shares of Chevron by 6.8% during the 1st quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 14,844,054 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $2,421,958,000 after buying an additional 948,045 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 68.87% of the companys stock. Get Chevron alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In other Chevron news, VP Jeff B. Gustavson sold 3,750 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $160.88, for a total transaction of $603,300.00. Following the transaction, the vice president now owns 1,718 shares of the companys stock, valued at $276,391.84. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. In other Chevron news, CFO Pierre R. Breber sold 25,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, August 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $164.00, for a total transaction of $4,100,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 6,021 shares of the companys stock, valued at $987,444. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, VP Jeff B. Gustavson sold 3,750 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $160.88, for a total value of $603,300.00. Following the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 1,718 shares in the company, valued at approximately $276,391.84. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.18% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of research firms have recently issued reports on CVX. Bank of America increased their price target on Chevron from $185.00 to $190.00 in a research report on Wednesday. HSBC upped their price objective on Chevron from $180.00 to $184.00 in a research note on Wednesday, August 9th. Citigroup decreased their price objective on Chevron from $180.00 to $170.00 in a research note on Tuesday, July 11th. Truist Financial upped their price objective on Chevron from $163.00 to $165.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Monday, July 31st. Finally, Mizuho upped their price objective on Chevron from $209.00 to $215.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Monday, September 18th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $190.56. View Our Latest Report on CVX Chevron Trading Up 2.0 % Chevron stock opened at $171.08 on Thursday. The company has a market capitalization of $319.45 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.85, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.89 and a beta of 1.18. Chevron Co. has a 52 week low of $141.40 and a 52 week high of $189.68. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $162.69 and a 200 day moving average price of $160.43. The company has a quick ratio of 1.13, a current ratio of 1.43 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.13. Chevron (NYSE:CVX Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, July 28th. The oil and gas company reported $3.08 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.95 by $0.13. The business had revenue of $48.90 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $48 billion. Chevron had a return on equity of 19.48% and a net margin of 13.54%. The businesss revenue was down 28.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $5.82 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Chevron Co. will post 13.23 EPS for the current year. Chevron Announces Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, September 11th. Investors of record on Friday, August 18th were given a dividend of $1.51 per share. This represents a $6.04 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.53%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, August 17th. Chevrons payout ratio is 38.30%. Chevron Profile (Free Report) Chevron Corporation, through its subsidiaries, engages in the integrated energy and chemicals operations in the United States and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Upstream and Downstream. The Upstream segment is involved in the exploration, development, production, and transportation of crude oil and natural gas; liquefaction, transportation, and regasification associated with liquefied natural gas; transportation of crude oil through pipelines; and processing, transportation, storage, and marketing of natural gas, as well as a gas-to-liquids plant. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CVX? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Chevron Co. (NYSE:CVX Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Chevron Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Chevron and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. RPT Realty (NYSE:RPT Get Free Report) has been given a consensus rating of Hold by the four brokerages that are presently covering the company, Marketbeat.com reports. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating. The average 1-year price objective among brokers that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $11.38. A number of equities research analysts recently issued reports on RPT shares. StockNews.com started coverage on RPT Realty in a research note on Saturday, September 23rd. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Raymond James lowered RPT Realty from an outperform rating to a market perform rating in a research note on Monday, August 28th. Finally, Mizuho increased their price target on RPT Realty from $9.50 to $11.50 in a research note on Thursday, July 20th. Get RPT Realty alerts: Get Our Latest Analysis on RPT RPT Realty Price Performance RPT Realty Dividend Announcement RPT stock opened at $10.49 on Friday. RPT Realty has a 1 year low of $7.28 and a 1 year high of $11.67. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.98, a quick ratio of 0.39 and a current ratio of 0.39. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $10.72 and its 200 day moving average price is $10.00. The firm has a market cap of $909.76 million, a P/E ratio of 14.36, a PEG ratio of 2.71 and a beta of 1.63. The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, October 2nd. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, September 20th will be paid a dividend of $0.14 per share. This represents a $0.56 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.34%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, September 19th. RPT Realtys dividend payout ratio is presently 76.71%. Institutional Trading of RPT Realty A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Virginia Retirement Systems ET AL acquired a new stake in shares of RPT Realty during the 2nd quarter worth $959,000. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky increased its holdings in shares of RPT Realty by 6.0% during the 2nd quarter. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky now owns 26,304 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $275,000 after buying an additional 1,496 shares during the last quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. increased its holdings in shares of RPT Realty by 38.0% during the 2nd quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 140,464 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,468,000 after buying an additional 38,679 shares during the last quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN increased its holdings in shares of RPT Realty by 40.9% during the 2nd quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN now owns 42,992 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $449,000 after buying an additional 12,469 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio increased its holdings in shares of RPT Realty by 1.0% during the 2nd quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio now owns 117,052 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,223,000 after buying an additional 1,133 shares during the last quarter. 93.91% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. About RPT Realty (Get Free Report RPT Realty owns and operates a national portfolio of open-air shopping destinations principally located in top U.S. markets. The Company's shopping centers offer diverse, locally-curated consumer experiences that reflect the lifestyles of their surrounding communities and meet the modern expectations of the Company's retail partners. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for RPT Realty Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for RPT Realty and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. One Plus One Wealth Management LLC lowered its position in shares of The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG Free Report) by 8.0% in the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 2,137 shares of the companys stock after selling 185 shares during the period. One Plus One Wealth Management LLCs holdings in Procter & Gamble were worth $324,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in PG. Axiom Financial Strategies LLC increased its holdings in shares of Procter & Gamble by 7.0% during the 1st quarter. Axiom Financial Strategies LLC now owns 1,728 shares of the companys stock worth $276,000 after buying an additional 113 shares during the last quarter. AMI Investment Management Inc. boosted its position in shares of Procter & Gamble by 7.2% during the 1st quarter. AMI Investment Management Inc. now owns 3,461 shares of the companys stock worth $529,000 after purchasing an additional 233 shares during the period. LSV Asset Management boosted its position in shares of Procter & Gamble by 5.7% during the 1st quarter. LSV Asset Management now owns 18,600 shares of the companys stock worth $2,842,000 after purchasing an additional 1,000 shares during the period. Ergoteles LLC purchased a new position in shares of Procter & Gamble during the 1st quarter worth approximately $3,073,000. Finally, Wsfs Capital Management LLC boosted its position in shares of Procter & Gamble by 12.0% during the 1st quarter. Wsfs Capital Management LLC now owns 4,256 shares of the companys stock worth $650,000 after purchasing an additional 455 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 63.43% of the companys stock. Get Procter & Gamble alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In related news, CAO Matthew W. Janzaruk sold 33,022 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, August 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $156.26, for a total transaction of $5,160,017.72. Following the sale, the chief accounting officer now owns 888 shares of the companys stock, valued at $138,758.88. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. In other Procter & Gamble news, CAO Matthew W. Janzaruk sold 33,022 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, August 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $156.26, for a total value of $5,160,017.72. Following the sale, the chief accounting officer now owns 888 shares of the companys stock, valued at $138,758.88. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, insider Balaji Purushothaman sold 12,629 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, August 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $157.19, for a total transaction of $1,985,152.51. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 13,051 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,051,486.69. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last 90 days, insiders have sold 106,607 shares of company stock valued at $16,523,793. Corporate insiders own 0.17% of the companys stock. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades PG has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. Royal Bank of Canada increased their price objective on shares of Procter & Gamble from $165.00 to $167.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research report on Monday, July 31st. Stifel Nicolaus raised their price target on shares of Procter & Gamble from $155.00 to $161.00 in a research report on Monday, July 31st. StockNews.com cut shares of Procter & Gamble from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, September 16th. Morgan Stanley reissued an overweight rating and issued a $174.00 price target on shares of Procter & Gamble in a research report on Tuesday, August 1st. Finally, Barclays raised their price target on shares of Procter & Gamble from $160.00 to $166.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 1st. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and thirteen have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $165.61. Read Our Latest Research Report on PG Procter & Gamble Stock Down 1.3 % Shares of NYSE:PG opened at $147.33 on Thursday. The company has a market cap of $347.30 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.97, a PEG ratio of 3.40 and a beta of 0.42. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $153.73 and its 200-day simple moving average is $151.01. The company has a quick ratio of 0.44, a current ratio of 0.63 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.53. The Procter & Gamble Company has a fifty-two week low of $122.18 and a fifty-two week high of $158.38. Procter & Gamble (NYSE:PG Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Friday, July 28th. The company reported $1.37 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.32 by $0.05. The business had revenue of $20.60 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $20.01 billion. Procter & Gamble had a net margin of 17.87% and a return on equity of 32.88%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 5.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $1.21 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts predict that The Procter & Gamble Company will post 6.38 earnings per share for the current year. Procter & Gamble Dividend Announcement The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, August 15th. Investors of record on Friday, July 21st were issued a dividend of $0.9407 per share. This represents a $3.76 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.55%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, July 20th. Procter & Gambles dividend payout ratio is currently 63.73%. About Procter & Gamble (Free Report) The Procter & Gamble Company provides branded consumer packaged goods worldwide. It operates through five segments: Beauty; Grooming; Health Care; Fabric & Home Care; and Baby, Feminine & Family Care. The Beauty segment offers conditioners, shampoos, styling aids, and treatments under the Head & Shoulders, Herbal Essences, Pantene, and Rejoice brands; and antiperspirants and deodorants, personal cleansing, and skin care products under the Olay, Old Spice, Safeguard, Secret, and SK-II brands. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Procter & Gamble Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Procter & Gamble and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Even after some choppy weeks, the S&P 500 Index is still up more than 11% for 2023. But not all the stocks in the index have participated in this rally. Some are down a double-digit percentage year-to-date. Sometimes the selloff in a stock is overdone, bringing high quality names to levels that should start to pique the interest of value investors. This is especially true if the stock in question has excellent fundamentals and the potential for significant returns. The one positive of a declining share price is that the dividend yield can start to look appealing. The combination of potentially high returns and generous yield can make for very attractive total returns. Criteria for Stock Selection This article will explore three stocks that meet the following criteria: Share price is down at least 10% since the start of 2023. Have a GF Score of at least 90 out of 100. Rated as undervalued by GuruFocus. Have a dividend yield of at least 3%. Have increased the dividend for at least 10 years. Just 14 stocks meet the above criteria, including Extra Space Storage Inc (NYSE:EXR) and Pfizer Inc (NYSE:PFE). Extra Space Storage Inc (NYSE:EXR) First up is Extra Space Storage Inc (NYSE:EXR), a real estate investment trust that operates in the self-storage industry. The trust has a market capitalization of $25.5 billion and has generated revenue of more than $2 billion over the last year. The stock is lower by 16.5% so far this year. Extra Space Storage Inc (NYSE:EXR)s primary competitive advantage is the sheer size of its business. Already the number two largest operator of self-storage stores in the U.S., Extra Space Storage expanded the reach of its business following its recent purchase of Life Storage for approximately $47 billion in an all-stock deal. EXR's Expansion and Dividend Yield This acquisition added 1,200 new locations to the trusts already sizeable footprint, making it the largest player in its industry. The trust now owns, operates, and develops self-storage locations in more than 40 U.S. states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. In total, Extra Space Storage Inc (NYSE:EXR)s self-storage locations number more than 3,500. Story continues Extra Space Storage Inc (NYSE:EXR)s third-quarter dividend payment was split over two distributions due to the terms of the transaction involving Life Storage. The dividend is expected to remain intact going forward, so Extra Space Storages dividend growth streak of 14 years continues. Shares yield 5.3% presently, which is considerably higher than the average yield of 1.6% for the S&P 500 Index. EXR's Performance Metrics and Valuation The share price may have declined for the year, but Extra Space Storage Inc (NYSE:EXR) performs well on most metrics. The trust has a GF Score of 90 out of 100, implying good outperformance potential. Extra Space Storage receives perfect scores for value and growth and near-perfect marks for profitability. That said, financial strength and momentum are weak. 2 Undervalued High-Yield Names for High Total Returns The GF Value Line implies that Extra Space Storage Inc (NYSE:EXR) is significantly undervalued at the moment. With a GF Value of $191.55, investors could see a 59% return if the stock were to reach its GF Value. 2 Undervalued High-Yield Names for High Total Returns Pfizer Inc (NYSE:PFE) The second name for consideration is Pfizer Inc (NYSE:PFE), a leading global pharmaceutical company. The company is valued at $181 billion and has generated more than $181 billion of revenue over the last year. Shares are down almost 38% so far this year. Few pharma companies can match the size and scale of Pfizer Inc (NYSE:PFE), as it truly is a global leader. The company has some of the most successful pharmaceutical and vaccines in the world. PFE's Business Strategy and Dividend Yield It was one of the first companies to bring a Covid-19 vaccine to market, which has greatly aided results in the past few years. However, the demand for vaccines and the anti-viral drug Paxlovid has fallen as the pandemic has eased and usage has dropped, leading to declines on the top- and bottom-lines in recent quarters. That said, Pfizer Inc (NYSE:PFE) used the success of its Covid-19-related business to acquire other companies that can help bolster its pipeline. This includes the 2022 acquisition of GBT for its sickle cell treatments and the 2021 purchase of Trillium for its cancer therapeutics. Even with the roll off of revenue from its Covid-19 treatments, Pfizer Inc (NYSE:PFE) still expects revenue and earnings per share for 2023 to be above pre-covid levels as the core business remains healthy. There are some therapeutics that will lose patent protection, such as Eliquis and Ibrance, that will be a headwind in the years ahead, but the Pfizers acquisition spree and its pipeline should help to offset these losses. The steep decline in share price has caused the yield to reach 5.1%. This is one of the highest yields for the stock in more than a decade. Since 2013, Pfizer Inc (NYSE:PFE)s average yield is 3.6%. Pfizer has also raised its dividend for 14 consecutive years, so the companys dividend growth track record is solid. PFE's Performance Metrics and Valuation Pfizer Inc (NYSE:PFE)s GF Score is 90 out of 100, suggesting that the stock could see outperformance. This rating is backed by perfect or near-perfect showings for value, growth, and profitability. Financial strength and momentum receive average scores. 2 Undervalued High-Yield Names for High Total Returns The GF Value Line shows the stock is significantly undervalued. Shareholders could see a 60% return if the stock were to reach its GF Value of $51.01. 2 Undervalued High-Yield Names for High Total Returns Final Thoughts Extra Space Storage Inc (NYSE:EXR) and Pfizer Inc (NYSE:PFE) are two examples of companies that have suffered a steep decline even as the market as a whole has rallied this year. Both stocks are down a double-digit percentage, but each company has a sound business model and industry-leading fundamentals. Each stock is also trading well off its intrinsic value, which could mean strong rates of return. At the same time, both stocks offer a 5%+ dividend yield, effectively paying investors to wait for the market to reprice shares. Investors looking for deep value and high yields should consider adding Extra Space Storage Inc (NYSE:EXR) and Pfizer Inc (NYSE:PFE) to their portfolio. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. The African Centre for Media and Information Literacy (AFRICMIL) has called on Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State to stop further persecution of Adewale Adedayo, chairman of Ijebu East Local Government Area of Ogun State who was impeached and is now being prosecuted in court for accusing the governor of withholding statutory federal allocation to local governments in the state in the last two years. Adedayo had last month written a letter, which went viral, to former governor of the state, Chief Segun Osoba, urging him to use his influence to correct the persistent zero allocation of federal funds which local governments in the state was facing under the administration of Governor Abiodun. The state government has since denied the allegation. However, in a press statement, Dr, Chido Onumah, Coordinator of AFRICMIL, said it was unbecoming for the governor to go to the extent of making Adedayo to face retaliation for demanding transparency and accountability in administration of local government funds. According to Dr. Onumah, Adedayo doesnt deserve the punishment he is currently facing because he has done nothing wrong other than exercising his right of freedom of expression. In fact, instead of being punished, he should be rewarded for exhibiting behaviour that would be of benefit to society rather than himself. AFRICMIL, which is in the forefront of promoting whistleblowing as a vital tool for addressing corrupt practices and other forms of wrongdoing, described Adedayos action as legitimate whistleblowing which Nigeria sorely needs at this time. The organization observed that it was immoral and unlawful for the governor to deploy a strategy of intimidation to stop the whistleblower from speaking out against wrongdoing at the top level of governance. Following the furore that trailed the whistleblowers disclosure, he was first suspended for three months as chairman of Ijebu East Local Government Area, and then impeached even when the suspension had barely kicked off. Days after vowing that Adedayo would pay for making false allegations against him, the governor made good his threat by getting the police to arraign the whistleblower. We are not unmindful of the fact that all of this is part of the intimidation to completely silence the whistleblower, AFRICMIL stated. The organization said Adedayos continued victimization was unacceptable. We therefore call on the governor to immediately halt further retaliation against the whistleblower. We call for his immediate reinstatement as the chairman of Ijebu East Local Government Area, and withdrawal of the court case instituted against him. AFRICMIL called on anti-corruption agencies, particularly the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), where Adedayo sent a petition, to investigate the allegations contained in the whistleblowers petition to unravel the truth. The organisation reiterated its commitment to demand justice for all whistleblowers facing adverse actions for exposing wrongdoing in the country, adding that whistleblowing is freedom of expression that must be protected. Godwin Onyeacholem Programme Manager +2348037039415 Nigeria's Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima, has assured Nigerians that their sacrifices will not be in vain, saying the promises made by the Tinubu administration will be fulfilled. Sen. Shettima made the remarks on Thursday at a public lecture to commemorate Nigeria's 63rd Independence anniversary at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja. He said President Bola Tinubu's administration is committed to building a country where the economic independence of each citizen is guaranteed, and where none of them has to depend on unspecified handouts to earn a living. Today, we gather to honour Nigeria's journey to redefine its destiny. Today, we stand on the precipice of history to reflect upon a nation that has defied the predictions of doomsayers, a nation that has become the metaphor of resilience. "Over the past 63 years, we have not only survived but thrived because of our collective resolve, our commitment to progress, and the enduring spirit of unity that binds us together from Aba, down through Ogbomosho to Zaria, despite the conspiracies of minor vested interests, the Vice President said. According to him, while this anniversary offers Nigeria another opportunity to acknowledge the cross-regional bonds that have kept the country standing as Africas most populous nation and largest economy, we are here to remind ourselves that the future we promised Nigerians isnt an empty performance for electoral favours. The Vice President noted that the future of a great nation is not determined by the occurrence of a socio-economic challenge, but by the intention, sincerity, and innovative ideas of its leaders, and their commitment to implementing them. He said: "We cannot renew the hope of the nation unless we deliver on our promise to drive food security and eradicate poverty. We cannot foster economic growth and nurture job creation unless we facilitate access to capital, enhance national security, and optimize the business environment for our enterprises. "We are going to uphold the rule of law and fight corruption to design the Nigeria of our dream. We can't achieve any of these unless each citizen remains a strategic partner in pursuit of our ultimate national interests." Reflecting on the recent COVID-19 pandemic, Vice President Shettima pointed out that "the tragedy reminded us that viruses do not discriminate based on ethnicity or religion, and that our strength as a nation is driven by our collective faith in the ideals that define us and in the moral character of our leaders." The VP then emphasized the crucial role of leadership in shaping a nation's destiny, stating that "the future of a great nation rests on the intention, sincerity, and innovative ideas of its leaders and their commitment to implementing them." The Vice President also recognized the sacrifices made by Nigerians over the years, noting that such solidarity has inspired the government to focus on diverse sectors, from agriculture to digital technology, from healthcare to education. He said: "We knew from the starting point of this race to serve the people that the track would not be without its holes and thorns. We knew that challenges would arise, and obstacles would test our resolve. But, as our history has shown, Nigerians are too ambitious to be broken by a temporary setback. We are going to emerge from this phase of our reforms stronger, each of us with renewed hope." With unwavering determination, Sen. Shettima asserted, "at 63, we recognize that what has sustained us and propelled us forward is our collective belief that overcoming the challenges we've inherited necessitates sacrifices." He reiterated that these sacrifices are investments in a brighter future, one that will secure the well-being of current and future generations. VP Shettima reminded the nation: "As we work together towards a future where opportunity knows no bounds, let's remember that our most potent weapon is the overriding resolve of the majority to choose unity over chaos and democracy over anarchy." Earlier in his address, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, called on the Federal Government to consider increasing the salary of workers to mitigate the current economic situation in the country. He advised the administration to build on the existing synergy among the different arms of government to provide the much needed democracy dividends to Nigerians. Also speaking on Tinubu administrations 'Renewed Hope' agenda in a lecture themed, "Actualizig the vision of Renewed Hope for socio-economic development through effective leadership", the guest speaker, Dr Goke Adegoroye, commended President Tinubu for the steps taken so far in repositioning governance and resetting the economy. He however urged the administration to prioritise key aspects of the 'Renewed Hope' agenda with a view to ensuring that the impact is felt across different sectors of the economy. Present at the event were Secretary to Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume; Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Dr Folashade Esan; Ministers of Information, Mr Mohammed Idris; Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev; FCT, Mr Nyesom Wike; Budget and Economic Planning, Alh. Atiku Bagudu; Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar; Solid Minerals Development, Mr Dele Alake; Police Affairs, Alh Ibrahim Gaidam; Steel Development, Mr Shuaibu Audu, and Transportation, Sa'idu Alkali, among others. Heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies, as well as some members of the diplomatic community also attended the event. *Stanley Nkwocha* *Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications* *(Office of the Vice President)* *28th September, 2023* WSI adds rolling stock to its logistics portfolio. (Photo: Jim Allen/FreightWaves) Third-party logistics provider Warehouse Services Inc. (WSI) announced Thursday it has acquired dry van truckload carrier Sky Transportation Services. El Paso, Texas-based Sky Transportation is a Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism-certified regional carrier. It operates in the Southwest U.S. specializing in cross-border shipments. Sky has 200 power units registered, according to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration data. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed but the acquisition is expected to add more than $60 million to WSIs top line. The company provides greater density for us in key markets and very importantly it provides a meaningful expansion of capabilities across the border, which will enable us to better meet the needs of our customers, said Barry Cox, WSI president. The acquisition also adds depth to our management bench. Based in Piedmont, South Carolina, WSI is a privately held provider of 3PL and warehousing services primarily in the Eastern U.S. It also has locations along the U.S. West Coast and Eastern Canada. The 37-year-old company has more than 4,000 employees operating out of facilities totaling more than 20 million square feet of space. WSI and Sky have very similar cultures where safety and customer satisfaction are pivotal to our value proposition, said Albert Luna, founder and CEO of Sky. The enhanced set of services and scale that WSI provides will rapidly accelerate our strategic objectives. Luna will retain a leadership position, the news release said. Wofford Advisors LLC served as strategic adviser to WSI on the transaction and FV Advisory Group was the financial adviser to Sky. More FreightWaves articles by Todd Maiden The post 3PL, warehousing provider WSI acquires El Paso carrier appeared first on FreightWaves. CEO Governors are back PHUKET: Phuket officials have been instructed to prepare for a return to the CEO Governor system first introduced under Thaksin Shinawatra administration more than 20 years ago. politicseconomics By The Phuket News Thursday 28 September 2023 05:39 PM Phuket Vice Governor Amnuay Pinsuwan chaired a meeting at Phuket Provincial Hall yesterday (Sept 27) to ensure local administrations got the message. The Ministry of Interior (MoI) and the Office of the Public Sector Development Commission held a meeting on Tuesday to discuss administration in the form of integrated provincial governors (CEO Governors), reported the Phuket office of the Public Relations Department (PR Phuket). Ministry of Interior Permanent Secretary Suthiphong Chulcharoen chaired the meeting and gave orders to all provinces, the report said. The aim is to return to an administration in the form of integrated provincial governors (Governor CEO) by which the Ministry of Interior and the Office of the Public Sector Development Commission are informed so that relevant action can be taken, the report noted. Senior officials were seeking suggestions and opinions on operational guidelines and problems and obstacles in current public administration, the report added. Of note, when the same system was implemented under the Thaksin administration, the main point promoted was that CEO Governors had more latitude in dealing with problems specific to the province they were designated to govern. In reality, the result was the end of any real effectiveness of provincial administrations that operate under the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA). In Phuket, that organisation is the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation (PPAO, or OrBorJor). Other than the three Members of Parliament that represent Phuket (all three from the Move Forward Party), the highest elected official on the island is the President of the PPAO, a position currently held by Rewat Areerob. The Governor of Phuket, like all provincial governors, are selected and appointed by officials in Bangkok. Current Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew is to retire from public service this Saturday (Sept 30). Sophon Suwannarat, currently serving as Governor of Chaiyaphum Province, is to take up the post of Governor of Phuket from this Sunday (Oct 1). The CEO Governor system arose from the policy of reforming the civil service system by applying the management concepts of private businesses, explained the PR Phuket report. The system was first tested in five provinces Sisaket, Chainat, Lampang, Phuket and Narathiwat for one year, from Oct 1, 2001 to September 30 2002. The system was rolled out nationwide on Oct 1, 2003. Under the system, the governors main goal as CEO is to push the national agenda, by creating area-level agendas, solving problems and developing areas, and reducing the governments burden in solving problems at the area level, the PR Phuket report continued. In this regard, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior requests that all provinces join together to drive government policy and the mission of the Ministry of Interior to be quickly successful, to develop the quality of life of the people to be rich and happy, with people happier and having a sustainable quality of life, the report said. The report noted that the CEO Governor system to be reimplemented is an integration of cooperation, budget, resources from various sectors, focusing on measurable results. So-called provincial teams are to ensure they cater to peoples needs and keep up to date. According to the policy of the new Minister of Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, "up-to-date" means understanding the world situation and being able to adapt, the report said. "Up-to-date means understanding the changing context, to use technology to the maximum benefit and be timely, meaning being able to make decisions quickly and in time with the situation, the report concluded. Meanwhile, PR Phuket earlier yesterday reported a provincial budget-funded project to install 43 solar-power street lights in one moo baan (neighbourhood) in Kamala alone, Moo 6, at a total cost of B2.967 million meaning the solar-powered street lamps and posts are to cost B69,209 each. The provincial budget funds are to be disbursed via the Kathu District Office, which is to forward the funds to the Kamala Tambon Administration Organisation (OrBorTor). Kamala Koalas bowled out in Pattaya BOWLS: The second annual Pattaya versus Phuket lawn bowls tournament was held on Sept 15 with the hosts ultimately emerging victorious from an absorbing contest. Bowls By The Phuket News Thursday 28 September 2023 01:11 PM The Kamala Koalas team in Pattaya. Photo: Carl Mesham The Kamala Koalas, a strong a talented nine-man team, made the journey north to represent Kamala Lawn Bowls Club at the Retreat Bowls Club in Pattaya. Competing as three separate three-man teams, the Koalas performed admirably away from home and, halfway through the final end, looked to be set for a famous victory. However, their valiant efforts were to ultimately prove fruitless as the experienced Pattaya team took advantage of home comforts to run out 16-6 winners. The bowls green in Pattaya is much longer and faster than what we are used to at home in Phuket, explained Carl Mesham, the youngest member of the Koalas team. Not using this as an excuse but it means it literally takes twice as long and curls in a lot more to ultimately get to the jack than we are used to, he added. However, for everyone of our players on the tour to be involved in winning at least one game was a fantastic effort. We will be back next year to win it, a confident Carl concluded. Kamala Lawn Bowls Club is open six days a week. All equipment is provided and large parties can be gladly catered for. For further information please contact the club on 094 898 7476 or 099 130 7255. Small hotels still unable to register, but only in Phuket PHUKET: A delegation representing small hotel owners in Phuket has appealed to the Senate for help in allowing small and boutique hotels on the island to legally register as hotels a task they still cannot complete despite new regulations brought into effect this year specifically allowing them to do so. tourismeconomics By The Phuket News Thursday 28 September 2023 03:59 PM The formal request for help was submitted by the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) to Senator Gen Akanit Mueansawat, Chairman of the Senate Public Administration Commission. Gen Akanit in turn tasked Senator Gen Buntham Oris, who served as chairman of the working group to consider studying solutions to the problems of operating a daily accommodation rental business in 2021, to oversee a Senate investigation into the issue. Present and joining the joint problem-solving committee was Manosit Jangjob, head of the TCTs small hotel subcommittee, said a report by the Phuket office of the Public Relations Department. The Ministerial Regulation Specifying the Characteristics of Other Types of Buildings used for Hotel Business (No. 4) B.E. 2023 was signed into effect on June 7 this year by Gen Anupong Paochinda, who was Minister of Interior at the time. The new ministerial regulation, finally allowing small hotels to register to be legally recognised as hotels, came into effect with its promulgation in the Government Gazette on June 20. However, despite the ministerial regulation, operators still cannot register their businesses as small hotels due to another ministerial regulation, this one issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, said the PR Phuket report. The MNRE regulation specifically regards area demarcation and environmental protection measures in Phuket province, the report noted. However, exactly which environmental measures in effect in Phuket prevented small hotels from registering was not explained. However, when small hotels last year made yet another plea to be able to legally register, one of their requests was to waive the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment regulation requiring that 30% of the plot area be left undeveloped (the green areas rule that requires buildings footprint to cover no more than 70% of the total square area of the plot). The Ministerial Regulation Specifying the Characteristics of Other Types of Buildings used for Hotel Business (No. 4) B.E. 2023 does make it clear that small hotels applying to be legally registered as hotels must comply with all environment protection measures. The MNRE regulation preventing small hotels in Phuket from registering only became apparent when small hotels tried to register, the delegation said. The issue affects only small hotels in Phuket trying to became legally registered, the delegation added. The Boutique Accommodation Consortium - Phuket (BAC Phuket) raised the issue with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin during his visit to Phuket on Aug 25. PM Srettha has been confirmed to visit Phuket tomorrow (Sept 29). When raising the issue with PM Srettha last month, BAC Phuket also submitted a formal request for help to the Tourism Council of Thailand. TCT President Chamnan Srisawat responded, leading to the Senates involvement yesterday. Of note, TCT President Chamnan was in Phuket in June to head a two-day SME Restart event, promoting the fact that small hotels could be finally register as legally recognised hotels. Wirintra Paphakityotphat, head of the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) Region 11 branch, which represents Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi, was also present in Bangkok yesterday. Ms Wirintra explained, The TCT brought the matter to the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Administration to help follow up and expedite agencies related to the [respective] laws to help solve the hotels licensing problem urgently in order to increase [guest accommodation] supply this coming tourist season. This is because a hotel license is necessary [for small hotel operators] to obtain a loan from a bank for use in improving buildings used for hotel business. Hotels that are still closed can be improved and opened in time for this tourism high season, and provide more accommodation for tourists. It will stimulate the economy, and increase employment, peoples incomes and generate revenue during the last quarter of the year, she said. Srettha visit confirmed PHUKET: Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin will visit Phuket and Phang Nga tomorrow (Sept 29) to follow up on development of transportation infrastructure and construction of the Andaman International Airport to be built in Khok Kloi in Phang Nga, officials have confirmed. tourismeconomicstransport By The Phuket News Thursday 28 September 2023 09:00 AM Image: PR Phuket PM Srettha will first attend a meeting at Phuket International Airport at 12:10pm to hear an overview of the development of transportation infrastructure on the island, the Phuket office of the Public Relations Department (PR Phuket), reported through a notice posted online late yesterday (Sept 27). At 1:30pm, he will travel to the planned construction site of the Kathu-Patong Expressway Project, commonly called the Patong Tunnel project, to meet with representatives from government agencies and local citizens to listen to opinions on solving traffic problems and expanding routes to accommodate tourists, From there, the prime minister will travel to the planned site of the Andaman International Airport in Khok Kloi, Phang Nga, where at 3pm he will hear a summary of the construction project for the new airport, which is hoped to be operating by 2027. Following his visit to Khok Kloi, PM Srettha will return to Bangkok. Leading Phuket officials and key business figures met last week to agree on an extensive list of critical issues facing residents on the island, and the islands tourism industry, which are to be presented to Prime Minister Srettha during his visit. Among the issues to be presented are delays with major government projects, the Andaman airport to be built in Phang Nga, water resource issues and the state of the islands taxi services. PM Srettha was last in Phuket on Aug 25, less than 48 hours after he was royally endorsed as the 30th Prime Minister of Thailand. During that visit, he was also presented with many critical issues negatively affecting Phuktes development as a tourism destination. Thai AirAsia calls for action to cut travel costs BANGKOK: The government should help reduce travel costs for tourists, which have been rising since the coronavirus pandemic, in addition to its visa-free scheme for the Chinese, according to Thai AirAsia. tourismCOVID-19Chineseimmigration By Bangkok Post Thursday 28 September 2023 02:29 PM Photo: Bangkok Post / file Santisuk Klongchaiya, chief executive of Thai AirAsia, said a subsidy scheme or measures to help absorb costs for tourists are necessary as both international and domestic travel demand in the past year has resumed faster than the supply side, especially airlines capacity, reports the Bangkok Post. For instance, Thai AirAsia previously served China routes with 148 flights per week, but now only flies 104 flights per week. Average airfare in the first quarter surged by 100-200% from the same period in 2019, with the average load factor exceeding 80%. Airfares for Chinese routes decreased during the low season as the average load factor dropped to 60-70%, based on seasonality and slow purchasing power, said the airline. Local travel demand has been growing consistently since the COVID-19 pandemic with an average load factor of more than 90% for domestic flights, which pushed up the average airfare of local airlines. Mr Santisuk said the governments visa-free policy, which started on Sept 25, is expected to increase the number of Chinese arrivals, though it may take until November to see an uptick as many travellers prefer to wait for feedback from other visa-free visitors to Thailand in September and October before making a decision. The Chinese market is also challenged by slow economic growth, making it difficult to stimulate demand, he said. Travel demand was robust in the past year after the lifting of all pandemic controls, but with stagnant economic growth, were concerned that pent-up demand will not be sustained over the long run, especially when travel costs keep surging, said Mr Santisuk. As rising fuel costs and a weak baht continue to pressure airlines operational costs, he said airlines will not be able to lower airfares in the near future unless they can streamline other expenses at airports, such as navigation fees and the excise tax on jet fuel. Mr Santisuk said the government should consider lowering fees for aviation-related services at airports, which could indirectly help airlines reduce costs and airfares for passengers. Torsak named new police chief BANGKOK: The Police Commission approved the appointment of deputy national police chief Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol as the new national police chief yesterday (Sept 27). police By Bangkok Post Thursday 28 September 2023 08:37 AM Deputy police chief Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol has been named the countrys 14th national police chief, succeeding Pol Gen Damrongsak Kittiprapas, who retires on Sept 30. Photo: Pool via Bangkok Post Pol Gen Torsak will succeed Pol Gen Damrongsak Kittiprapas, who retires on Sept 30, reports the Bangkok Post. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin arrived at the Royal Thai Police (RTP) headquarters to chair the meeting of the commission to select the 14th police chief yesterday. Mr Srettha reviewed an honour guard in the rain before entering the building. The prime minister is the ex-officio chairman of the Police Commission under the Royal Thai Police Act. Mr Srettha nominated Pol Gen Torsak for the top police job at the meeting and attendees selected Pol Gen Torsak by a vote of 10 to 1. During the meeting, Pol Gen Torsak and Pol Gen Kitrat Phanphet, another contender for the police chief post, were asked to leave the meeting room temporarily so members of the Police Commission could consider their qualifications before the vote, sources said. Previously, it was speculated the appointment might be withdrawn from the meeting agenda and deferred until October, along with the appointment of deputy national police chiefs and commanders. It was thought some members of the Police Commission were to propose that a problem involving a deputy national police chief, one of the four contenders, should be cleared up first. This followed the search of houses occupied by deputy police chief Pol Gen Surachate Big Joke Hakparn, as part of a police probe into online gambling websites. The raid on Pol Gen Surachates rented houses in Bangkok on Monday morning was part of an operation codenamed Big Cleaning Day, which targeted 30 houses in Bangkok and five provinces - Phetchaburi, Samut Prakan, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani and Saraburi. As the deputy national police chief in charge of crime suppression, Pol Gen Torsak will retire next year. Pol Gen Surachate did not show up to welcome Mr Srettha at the RTP headquarters, according to sources. The sources said Pol Gen Surachate previously applied for leave and reasoned that he could not attend the meeting because he was a stakeholder. Pol Gen Torsak was fourth in seniority among the four job contenders. The other candidates were Pol Gen Roy Ingkapairote, the most senior, Pol Gen Surachate, the second-most senior, and Pol Gen Kitrat, the third. Pol Gen Torsak is a high-profile officer who rose to fame in the Crime Suppression Division (CSD). Born in Phetchaburi in 1964, he obtained a bachelors degree in political science from Thammasat University and started his career as an employee at Caltex Oil Thailand Co. He then enrolled for a training course in law, political science and public administration, which entitled him to be appointed as a police officer. He began his police career in 1997 as a deputy inspector at a radio patrol unit under the Patrol and Special Operations Division, known as the 191 Police. He was later transferred to the CSD and then the Tourist Police Bureau before returning to the CSD. He served as commander of the Police Royal Guards 904 Division before becoming a deputy chief and then chief of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB). Zero Food Waste event promotes sustainability PHUKET: A special culinary event was staged in Phuket yesterday (Sept 27) to promote sustainable tourism by focusing on zero food waste. environmentculturetourism By The Phuket News Thursday 28 September 2023 02:11 PM The Chef Table luxury dinner was hosted at Tin Baron restaurant in Phuket Town and saw two Michelin-starred chefs demonstrating how discarded food can be used to create delicious and appetizing dishes. Chef Korn from Five Olives and Chef Kwang Sinpradit from Marni, who have won numerous awards in addition to their Michelin star recognition, were joined by Chef Chatchawan Varahajirakul, Chef Bank, Chef Ice, and mixologist Wyn to create an exciting food and drinks menu. Each dish was specially created by the respective chefs with a story to accompany each one, describing how they had increased the value of discarded food to create modern, appetizing dishes. The food used was from a range of hotels, buffet lines and supermarkets, where there is significant food wastage witnessed on a daily basis, 30% of which can easily be recycled into fresh and appetizing offerings. Establishments supporting yesterdays initiative included Proud Phuket Hotel at Nai Yang Beach, The Nap Hotel at Patong Beach, Peach Group Hotel at Karon Beach, Katathani Hotel at Kata Beach and The Vijit Resort Hotel, Phuket in Rawai. The event was organised by the Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation with support by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Phuket Tourism Business Association, the Phuket Chamber of Commerce, the Southern Thai Hotel Association and the Phuket Hotel Association. Phumkit Raktaengam, the chairman of the Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation, hosted the occasion and was joined by Rewat Areerob, President of the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO) and a variety of selected guests. In addition to the food and beverages on offer there were a series of decorations at the event that were also created using recycled materials that guests were permitted to take home with them as souvenirs and to further promote sustainability and the prudent use of resources. Organisers said it was hoped the event could motivate the tourism industry in Phuket and Thailand as a whole to enhance its commitment to sustainability. As part of the drive the 1st Andaman Sustainable Tourism Forum seminar is being held today at the Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Chao Fah Hotel in Wichit from 9am to 5pm where further best practice approaches to sustainable tourism will be discussed. The UAE has invited leading French businessmen and startup owners to take advantage of the promising opportunities offered by the UAE economy to expand their operations to Mena and GCC markets. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, met with the executives, investors and CEOs of major French companies ahead of his visit to France to explore means to enhance economic cooperation between Abu Dhabi and Paris at the private sector level. The meeting was aimed at capitalising on more available opportunities that support the sustainable growth of their economies, especially in the new economy sectors. Frederic Sanchez, President of the Movement of the Enterprises of France (MEDEF), also attended the meeting. Main driver Al Marri said: Economic and trade cooperation is the main driver for strengthening the partnership between the two countries and ensuring the prosperity and well-being of our people. Over the past years, we have worked alongside our partners in the French government to provide the private sector with all the tools and capabilities necessary for the prosperity and expansion of their operations. This has reflected positively on the number of companies operating in the markets of the two countries. The Minister of Economy added: The economic policies approved by the UAE over the last three years, in implementation of our wise leaderships vision, have established a solid, fertile environment for the growth of major French companies, enabling their access to new markets. The UAE offers them various incentives and advantages, including advanced infrastructure and flexible legislation that ensure fair competition, in addition to a digital services system through which businesses can be easily set up. These factors have made the UAE home to more than 600 French companies that employ more than 30,000 people. They operate in various sectors including renewable energy, transportation, logistics, hotels, aviation, space, banking, and insurance, among others. The UAE is the second largest GCC investor in France and has more than 50 of its companies operating in France, in various sectors. We will continue to work with our French partners to increase the number of companies operating in the markets of the two countries, contributing to the creation of thousands of job opportunities, he added. Bilateral relations He highlighted that the bilateral relations between the UAE and France have developed significantly in various fields of cooperation under the leaderships of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE; and Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic. The meetings saw Al Marri elaborate on the pillars of the We the UAE 2031 vision, which aims to make the UAE a global hub for the new economy, and the steps taken by the UAE government to achieve this goal. For instance, the country is continuously developing its economic legislation and launching innovative initiatives and programs that support the economic climate and attract FDI, especially in the new economy sectors. In addition, he highlighted the issuance of legislation to protect intellectual property and the launch of an ambitious strategy to attract talent and minds to enhance the UAEs position as a permanent hub for creativity and innovation. MEDEF is a leading network that includes 173,000 companies and has great economic significance both inside and outside of France. It supports entrepreneurs and SMEs, which represent about 95% of the total companies joining its network and provides innovative solutions, initiatives and programmes to enable them to achieve sustainable growth. The Minister of Economy is leading a UAE delegation to France to discuss the strengthening of the economic cooperation in a wide range of vital sectors, most notably renewable energy, tourism, aviation, entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence, space, intellectual property, and the circular economy. --TradeArabia News Service Accenture PLC (NYSE:ACN) has recently been in the spotlight, drawing interest from investors and financial analysts due to its robust financial stance. With shares currently priced at $296.54, Accenture PLC has witnessed a daily loss of 5.67%, marked against a three-month change of -0.9%. A thorough analysis, underlined by the GF Score, suggests that Accenture PLC is well-positioned for substantial growth in the near future. Accenture PLC (ACN): 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. Accenture PLC'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 financial strength, profitability, and growth, and decent ranks in GF value and momentum, GuruFocus assigned Accenture PLC the GF Score of 96 out of 100, which signals the highest outperformance potential. Accenture PLC Business Overview Accenture PLC, with a market cap of $187.06 billion and sales of $63.55 billion, is a leading global IT-services firm that provides consulting, strategy, and technology and operational services. These services run the gamut from aiding enterprises with digital transformation to procurement services to software system integration. The company provides its IT offerings to a variety of sectors, including communications, media and technology, financial services, health and public services, consumer products, and resources. Accenture employs just under 500,000 people throughout 200 cities in 51 countries. Story continues Accenture PLC (ACN): A Deep Dive into Financial Metrics and Competitive Strengths Financial Strength Analysis According to the Financial Strength rating, Accenture PLC's robust balance sheet exhibits resilience against financial volatility, reflecting prudent management of capital structure. The Interest Coverage ratio for Accenture PLC stands impressively at 213.18, 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 7.45, Accenture PLC exhibits a strong defense against financial distress, highlighting its robust financial stability. With a favorable Debt-to-Revenue ratio of 0.05, Accenture PLC's strategic handling of debt solidifies its financial health. Profitability Rank Breakdown The Profitability Rank shows Accenture PLC's impressive standing among its peers in generating profit. Accenture PLC Operating Margin has increased (1.37%) over the past five years, as shown by the following data: 2019: 14.59; 2020: 14.70; 2021: 15.08; 2022: 15.21; 2023: 14.59; . Accenture PLC'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, Accenture PLC demonstrates a strong commitment to expanding its business. The company's 3-Year Revenue Growth Rate is 13%, which outperforms better than 61.52% of 2414 companies in the Software industry Moreover, Accenture PLC 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 16.9, and the rate over the past five years is 15.8. This trend accentuates the company's continued capability to drive growth. Accenture PLC (ACN): A Deep Dive into Financial Metrics and Competitive Strengths Conclusion Accenture PLC's strong financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics highlight the firm's unparalleled position for potential outperformance. The GF Score of 96 out of 100 further underscores this potential, making Accenture PLC a compelling consideration 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. Thunder Bay, Ont. Business is on a roll along Highway 61 with entrepreneurs opening their doors to the public. One of these operations, called 876 Tastebuds Restaurant and Juice Bar, has opened in the Country Plaza next to the Bean and Olive Restaurant. Stacy Ann McFarlane says her restaurant is a nod to her Jamaican culture. The number 876 is the area code for Jamaica, so I just gave it a little nod by putting it in my business name, said McFarlane, who owns the restaurant and is a trained personal support worker. It has always been in the back of my mind to own and operate a restaurant. During Christmas last year, McFarlane began cooking for her medical colleagues. Many immigrants are moving into the city of Thunder Bay and when it comes to the holiday time, lots of people have to work, she said. It just came upon me to cook some dishes for them. In December of 2022, McFarlane organized a major cookout and sold most of those dishes to her colleagues. They told me I was in the wrong field and that prompted me to come back into the atmosphere, the kitchen, my dynasty that I love, which pushed me to open up my restaurant here, she said. As a Jamaican restaurant, McFarlanes menu is predominantly Jamaican dishes. Our mainstays are jerk pork, jerk chicken, rice and peas and I also have a little more expansion to that menu, she said. I also have a seafood section and a section for vegetarians, because we cater for everybody. McFarlanes signature dish is a competition between jerk chicken and jerk pork. They are always neck and neck and those are my mainstays and my most popular dishes . . . and yes, its spicy . . . if you want it to be, she noted. A lot of people tend to think that Jamaican food must be spicy. Its not. For the spice lovers and the pepper lovers, absolutely. I will add that pepper aspect for you. But Im catering to the general public and not every palate can afford peppers. And because of that, I make all my dishes flavourful. You will taste a lot of spice but its not hot spice. But for those who want the hot spice, its readily available for them to have. McFarlane says like most business startups, she has faced her own challenges. Starting any business, especially as a sole proprietor, there will be challenges. There will be physical, emotional and financial challenges. It takes a lot to start up a business, she said. For anyone who is thinking about it, make sure that you guide yourself and give yourself enough space and room to make formidable decisions. Ensure that you have that allotted time of freeing yourself so that you can just take two steps back and reassess your situation before moving forward. McFarlane says the challenges will be there and no industry is challenge-free. Youve got to take it one step at a time and face the challenge head-on, she pointed out. Thats what Ive been doing so far. Youve got to make sure that when the challenges come, you hit them head-on, and you keep moving forward with a positive mindset. McFarlane called Highway 61 traffic enormous and said her restaurant is in a good spot. Away from the hustle and bustle in the city, she says she loves the openness and calmness of the area and noticed the community is large. Ahead, she wants to dig into the Thunder Bay market a little bit more. We have lots of restaurants in the city, we have lots of choices for people to make. Ive created a niche because I only specifically cater to Jamaican dishes, she said. Calcutta High Courts Bench of Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay, on Wednesday, ordered the transfer of a special CBI court judge for intervening in a High Court order. In a related development law minister Moloy Ghatak today appeared in Calcutta High Court over summons issued by Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay allegedly in connection with the delay in effecting the transfer order issued against the special CBI court Judge. Justice Gangopadhyay has taken exception to an earlier order of the special CBI court judge, Arpan Chattopadhyay for involving Kolkata Police in the central agency investiga- tion on the allegation by expelled youth Trinamul Congress leader Kuntal Ghosh accusing the central agencies of putting pressure on him to name Trinamul Congress national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee in the multi-crore cash-for-school job case. Justice Gangopadhyay observed that when the central agency probe in the matter was being conducted following an order of the High Court, the judge of the special CBI court had no author- ity to intervene in that matter. Advertisement Justice Gangopadhyay also directed the authorities concerned to complete the process of transfer of the judge of the special CBI court in Kolkata by 4 October. OnWednesday, the chief of CBIs special investigation team probing the school job case, Ashwini Senvi appeared in front of Justice Gangopadhyays Bench and accused the local police administration of harassing the central agency sleuths and thus creating hindrances in the process of smooth investigation. Reacting to Senvis complaints, Justice Gangopadhyay observed that the task of Kolkata Police and West Bengal Police are to maintain law and order situation in the state and under no circumstances they can intervene in a central agency probe which has been ordered by the Calcutta High Court. Justice Gangopadhyay through the ruling presented a legal cushion to the officers of the CBI-SIT and barred police and any state investi- gation agency from taking any action and meting out any harassment to the head of CBI- SIT and any other officers of the central agency without taking any permission from Calcutta High Court. With regards to the trans- fer of the special CBI court judge, Justice Gangopadhyay also summoned the state law minister Malay Ghatak within the next 30 minutes. With the dengue mosquitoes attacking more and more people in the city and districts, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation decided to open a helpline number for citizens to find out information on availability of beds in various hospitals. The decision was made following a high-level meeting chaired by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation mayor, Firhad Hakim and deputy mayor Atin Ghosh with the senior officials of the civic body today. The meeting was held with the health officers of all the 16 boroughs of the KMC along with the officials of the solid waste management and other wings of the civic body today. According to the deputy mayor, KMC is to provide information on both state-run and private hospitals to the citizens. The health officers of the 16 boroughs under KMC have been asked to be in touch with private hospitals in their respective areas and keep information on the avail ability of beds through a Whatsapp group. After gathering the required information, the KMC would open a helpline number providing information to the citizens on the availability of beds in the next seven to 10 days. Advertisement The civic body would also provide 100 additional beds in the urban community health centre and hospital near Kidderpore Tram Depot that presently has a provision for 40 beds. The additional beds are to be used particularly as part of the dengue fever clinic. Apart from this, 200 beds have been reserved at Islamia Hospital so that those can be used for providing initial level of treatment for dengue. Following the high-level meeting, the KMC has also decided to crack the whip on people throwing garbage on vacant lands and ponds.According to the deputy mayor, there are many vacant plots that were cleared by the KMC last year but were littered again and the civic body had to redo the exercise. To prevent such a scenario, the KMC would now issue notices to the residents living around the vacant lands and throwing waste into it. It has been decided that the residents around the vacant land and pond throwing garbage into those, would be issued a notice for violating the municipal rules. If required they would also be fined. A case would also be filed against those residents who would be proved of throwing garbage into vacant lands or ponds after a local enquiry, informed Mr Ghosh. Not only vacant lands or ponds, following the dengue scare, the civic body has also declared to go stern on under construction structures. If vulnerable spots of larvae breeding are found in an under-construction area, a notice is to be issued to the building owners for taking measures to clear the space and follow the steps. If the instructions are not complied with, in seven days, the building department would have to take action to stop the construction activities, added the deputy mayor. If the building department officials do not take steps for strict compliance of stopping the construction, they would be issued a show cause notice and action would be taken against them. Meanwhile, the civic body has started the repairing of roads under it after getting a list of vulnerable stretches from the city police. The Kolkata Police is said to have sent a list of more than 300 stretches of roads that need repair. Edtech major Byjus has rolled out a new social media policy for its employees, prohibiting them from communicating with any media outlet else face appropriate disciplinary and legal action, as it gears up for a massive business restructuring exercise. According to reports, the company has sent the new social media policy, fearing that some people who didnt have full information about what is going on within the company would leak it out to the media, harming its reputation. You are not allowed to speak directly with any media house or provide the companys information, including pictures, videos and screenshots, among others, read the new social media policy. Advertisement Any violation of this will be taken up by the company seriously and may result in appropriate disciplinary and legal action against you, according to the policy. The new social media policy is a part of the companys strategy for a major business restructuring, being undertaken by Arjun Mohan, who was recently elevated as CEO of its India business, replacing Mrinal Mohit. Byjus is also planning to rebrand its coding platform WhiteHat Jr as Byjus Future School with an expanded offline presence, according to reports. The new developments come as the edtech major Byjus is going to lay off 4,000-5,000 employees in a business restructuring exercise in the coming weeks. We are in the final stages of a business restructuring exercise to simplify operating structures, reduce the cost base and better cash flow management, a company spokesperson said in a statement. Byjus new India CEO, Arjun Mohan, will be completing this process in the next few weeks and will steer a revamped and sustainable operation ahead, the spokesperson added. The rejig at the top level came as Byjus is mulling to sell at least two of its subsidiaries, Epic and Great Learning, to raise between $800 million and $1 billion, amid reports that the company has formulated a proposal to repay its outstanding $1.2 billion Term Loan B (TLB). Long-established in the Utilities - Independent Power Producers industry, Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp (NYSE:AQN) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. However, it has recently witnessed a daily loss of 3.74%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of -24.38%. Fresh insights from the GF Score 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 Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp (AQN): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Metrics 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 Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp the GF Score of 62 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential. Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp: A Snapshot Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp, a parent company of Liberty, is a diversified international generation, transmission, and distribution utility with over $16 billion of total assets. Through its two business groups, the Regulated Services Group and the Renewable Energy Group, AQN is committed to providing safe, secure, reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable energy and water solutions through its portfolio of electric generation, transmission, and distribution utility investments to over one million customer connections, largely in the United States and Canada. AQN provides renewable energy through its portfolio of long-term contracted wind, solar, and hydroelectric generating facilities. Story continues Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp (AQN): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Metrics Financial Strength Analysis Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp's financial strength indicators present some concerning insights about the company's balance sheet health. The company's interest coverage ratio of 1.42 positions it worse than 75.63% of 316 companies in the Utilities - Independent Power Producers 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 0.29, 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 0.01 indicates a struggle in handling existing debt levels. Furthermore, the company's debt-to-Ebitda ratio is 18.69, which is above Joel Tillinghast's warning level of 4 and is worse than 90.79% of 315 companies in the Utilities - Independent Power Producers 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 Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp seems to falter, as evidenced by the company's low Growth rank. Over the past five years, Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp has witnessed a decline in its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA). The three-year growth rate is recorded at -34.1, while the five-year growth rate is at -12.3. These figures underscore potential challenges in the company's profitability. Lastly, Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp predictability rank is just one star out of five, adding to investor uncertainty regarding revenue and earnings consistency. Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp (AQN): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Metrics Conclusion Given the company's financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GF Score highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential underperformance. While Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp has a rich history and a diverse portfolio, its current financial and growth indicators suggest that it may struggle to maintain its past 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. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested Sajeevan Kollapallil in connection with an ongoing investigation in a money laundering case for fraud in connection with the Pulpally Service Cooperative Bank, an official said. The accused was produced before the PMLA Special Court in Kozhikode which sent him to EDs custody till September 30. The ED initiated a PMLA investigation based on an FIR registered by the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau in Wayanad, Kerala, against the governing body members and bank officials of the Pulpally Service Cooperative Bank, Wayanad. Advertisement The ED investigation revealed that the bank officials and its governing body members sanctioned enhanced loans without the consent and knowledge of the loan applicants by overvaluing the properties offered as collateral and the over and above amount of the loans were given to a private individual named Sajeevan Kollapallil. The loans were not repaid by the applicants and thus caused a total loss of Rs 5.62 crore to the Pulpally Service Cooperative Bank. The proceeds of crime in form of overvalued loan were credited in the bank account of Sajeevan Kollappallil, maintained with Pulpally Service Cooperative Bank, Pulpally. By acquiring, possessing and siphoning of the proceeds of crime, Sajeevan Kollappallil has committed the offence of money laundering as defined under Section 3 of the PMLA, 2002, punishable under Section 4, the ED said. Patanjali has become a trusted name in almost every Indian household. But the story of leaps and bounds it faced to become a trusted brand in the ecosystem is less known. How was the journey of the desi company to outcast the dominating foreign brands in the Indian market is something to be shared with the masses. If we go around two decades back, then it was Baba Ramdev who revamped the Yoga culture in India a country which is the birthplace of this ancient wellbeing exercise. Ramdevs mass yoga camps gained popularity and were telecasted on televisions that led every households to begin their day with Yoga itself. After yoga, it was the Patanjali a private limited company, that gained popularity as it was aimed at providing natural and organic products to Indian households and throw out the foreign companies that sell products having harmful ingredients. Advertisement Patanjali has a wide range of quality products ranging from Natural Food Products, Natural Health Care, Natural Personal Care, Ayurvedic Medicines, Herbal Home Care & Patanjali Publication. It was in 1995 that the Patanjali Yogpeeth was set up in Haridwar, the first such initiative under the name of Patanjali. Later in 1997, Patanjali started as a small pharmacy in Haridwar selling ayurvedic products. Initially, Patanjali distributed the medicines for free. From buying the raw materials to grinding and mixing, everything was done by themselves as they cannot employ staff because of the lack of money. After a few years, in 2006, Patanjali was established as a private limited company, and was converted into a public limited (un-listed) company the very next year. The purpose of the company was to bring the Ayurved in the form of the various product range, particularly in healthcare, hair care, dental care, toiletries, food and more at breathtaking speed. Patanjaliayurved.net domain was owned by Patanjali Ayurved Limited incorporated under Companies Act, 1956. Acharya Balkrishna: Patanjalis torch-bearer Acharya Balkrishna, CEO of Patanjali, and the torch-bearer of Patanjalis swadeshi movement, is ranked seventh on the Hurun India Rich List for 2017. Balkrishna and Baba Ramdev are the two pillars of the company. While Ramdev does not hold a stake in Patanjali Ayurved, he is the face of the firm and endorses its products to his followers across his yoga camps and television programs. Balkrishna owns 94% of the company and serves as its managing director. Educated in the Guru-Shishya Prampara at the Gurukul at Kalwa (Jind, Haryana) under the guidance of Late Acharya Shri Baldevji, he is a great visionary, highly ascetic, energetic, diligent, simple, easy-going and a versatile personality with multi- dimensional skills, constantly engaged in the service of mankind from the core of his heart. Patanjalis rocketing journey in Indian FMCG market In 2010, Patanjali opened the worlds largest food park, situated 20 km from the holy city of Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India. Later, it initiated marketing and promotion of its products through yoga camps with a swadeshi positioning that Patanjali products are purely ayurvedic and herbal. This attracted the Indian masses at large and a lot of its products became the part of Indian households. It was leading from its competitors riding on the trust factor. Later in 2012, Patanjali hit revenue of Rs 450 crore and opened 450 exclusive Patanjali stores in the country. While in 2015, Patanjali hit revenue of Rs 2000 crore and opened 4000 exclusive stores. In the same year, Patanjali signed a deal with Future Group to develop, market and distribute Patanjali products exclusively in the modern trade. Year 2017 was another milestone year for the company as Patanjali jumped from 173rd to 15th in the Brand Trust Report 2017. It also hit revenue of Rs 10,561 crores and announced plans to introduce its clothing range. Patanjali Group achieved a turnover of around Rs 30,000 crore in the Financial Year 2020-21, helped by a revenue boost of Rs 16,318 crore from Ruchi Soya. It is to be noted that in 2019, Patanjali group had acquired Ruchi Soya Industries Limited for Rs 4,350 crore through an insolvency process. During the COVID-19 pandemic too, Patanjali played a very crucial role. It launched the Coronil and Swasari kit, which claimed to contain the cure for the viral disease. Factors that propelled Patanjalis growth Baba Ramdev also stated that the motivation behind Patanjali is Upkar and not Vyapar. Moderate estimating of Patanjali items is one reason for its solid infiltration into the Indian market. It aims to give great quality items at low costs. The company has upheld the banner of Make in India and it wont be incorrect to say that it is the sole organization to do so in the current market. Patanjali Ayurved Ltd. built its one-of-a-kind retail organization. It began selling products through its own channels of super distributors, distributors, Chikitsalayas (franchise dispensaries), and Arogya Kendras. Patanjali is propelling over an authentic advertising strategy with trust remaining a key factor. Baba Ramdev himself promotes the product in his yog shivir, youtube channels and other media platforms that developes a sense of trust over his followers. In the latest Times World Rankings for 2024, a total of 91 Indian universities have made their mark, showcasing a significant increase from last years count of 75. These rankings, announced by the esteemed Times Higher Education (THE) magazine, underline Indias growing presence on the global academic stage. Leading the pack is the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore, claiming the top spot, a position it hadnt held since 2017. Noteworthy Indian institutions within the 501-600 band include Anna University, Jamia Millia Islamia, Mahatma Gandhi University, and Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences. The steady rise in the number of Indian universities securing global recognition speaks to the nations commitment to higher education. However, its important to note that the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) have abstained from participating in these rankings for the fourth consecutive year, adhering to their stance. Advertisement India, in the context of global representation, has surged forward, now standing as the fourth most well-represented nation in the 2024 rankings. This leap is a testament to the growing quality and influence of Indian universities in the global academic landscape. Other top universities in the list: The coveted top position in the rankings remains firmly held by the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom, an impressive eighth consecutive year at the summit. The top 10 institutions continue to feature universities from the United States, underlining their enduring academic excellence. Yet, an in-depth analysis by THE magazine reveals a changing global academic landscape, where the prominence of the UK and US is gradually diminishing in comparison to other international educational systems. In summary, Indias academic prowess is on the rise, with a record number of universities making their mark on the global stage. While established leaders like IISc Bangalore shine brightly, its clear that the landscape of higher education is evolving, and India is asserting its presence more prominently than ever before. Cambodia recorded some 3.5 million international tourists in the first eight months of 2023, a year-on-year increase of 250.8 per cent, Prime Minister Hun Manet said on Wednesday. He released the figures in a message to mark the World Tourism Day 2023 under the theme Tourism and Green Investments, reports Xinhua news agency. With our Visit Cambodia Year 2023 campaign, Cambodia is projected to receive approximately 5 million foreign tourists in 2023, an expected rise of 120 per cent (from 2.27 million in 2022), Hun Manet said. Advertisement According to the Ministry of Tourism, the number of international visitors to the Southeast Asian country is predicted to reach 7 million in 2025, surpassing the pre-Covid pandemic level of 6.6 million in 2019. Tourism is one of the four pillars supporting Cambodias economy, in addition to garment, footwear and travel goods export, agriculture, and construction and real estate. The country has four world heritage sites, namely the Angkor Archaeological Park in the northwestern Siem Reap province, the Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Site in the central Kampong Thom province, and the Preah Vihear Temple and the Koh Ker Archaeological Site, both in the northwestern Preah Vihear province. Besides, Cambodia boasts a 450-km pristine coastline stretching across four southwestern provinces of Sihanoukville, Kampot, Kep and Koh Kong. Sukhpal Singh Khaira, the Congress legislator, whose arrest in a drug case has put the two Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) partners, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the main Opposition Congress on a confrontation course, is a bitter critic of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and top AAP leadership. A three-time member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Bholath, Khaira, who was earlier with the AAP and led a group of six dissident MLAs to form a splinter group in 2018 before joining the Congress, has been targeting the AAP Government and its leadership on daily basis. In his last post on X, Khaira asked AAP leader Raghav Chadha to explain how he managed to gift a four-carat diamond ring to his newly-wed wife Parineeti Chopra as its price was 10 times more than his declared income. Advertisement Prior to this, he had shared a video of Chadhas wedding and questioned the dazzling cavalcades of todays brand of Aam Aadmi like Arvind Kejriwal, Raghav Chadha, Bhagwant Mann & Co who once vowed not to take government accommodation, car, etc. and to end VIP culture, now not only have broken their vows but have become new VVIPs of India! In another post, Khaira recently described top AAP leaders as farzi inqlaabi (fake revolutionaries) because theyre biggest hypocrites in Indian politics. Known to spew venom against his rivals, Khaira had earlier attacked party supremo Arvind Kejriwal, alleging that his dictatorial attitude shattered the dreams of Indians and the Punjabis of a clean alternative to the decayed and rotten system. The CM, Mann, had recently said Khaira was one of three-four people in Punjab who hurled abuse at him early in the morning every day. Their blood has turned black in the process and their complexion is also getting black), he had said. Without naming anyone, Khaira earlier submitted highly objectionable video clips of gross misconduct by an AAP minister to Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit. Khaira, who had joined the AAP in 2015 after quitting the Congress, was Leader of Opposition (LoP) for about a year in 2018 but was removed by the party after he pressed the demand for an overhaul of the entire structure of the AAP in Punjab. Khaira, 58, was first elected to the Assembly in 2007 on a Congress ticket. In 2017, he was again elected to the Assembly on AAP ticket. In 2022, he got re-elected on a Congress ticket. Khaira was on Thursday arrested in connection with a 2015 drug case and sent to two-day remand by a court in Jalalabad. The case was registered in March 2015 at Jalalabad in Fazilka. Nine people were booked in the case and later convicted under the NDPS Act. Police had recovered two kilograms of heroin, 24 gold biscuits, one country-made pistol, a .315-bore pistol and two Pakistani SIM cards from them. Khairas name cropped up later during the police probe. However, in 2017, the Supreme Court stayed the trial court proceedings against Khaira, who was summoned as an additional accused in the matter. He was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in 2021 on charges of money laundering linked to the 2015 drug case. He was granted bail in 2022. In February 2023, the Apex court quashed the summoning order against Khaira in the 2015 drug case. The primary accusations against Khaira include supporting an international gang of smugglers, sheltering them and receiving financial benefits from drug traffickers. According to the investigation agencys charge sheet, the funds received were allegedly used to purchase properties. Khaira reportedly spent over Rs 6.5 Crore on himself and family members between 2014 and 2020, with expenses exceeding his declared income. Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar was in close contact with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) and held weekly meetings with them in the months before he was killed by masked gunmen in British Columbia. The details of his secret meetings with the Canadian intelligence agency were divulged by his son in a media interview recently. Hardeep Singh Nijjar was killed by two masked gunmen in the parking lot of a Gurudwara in Surrey, British Columbia on June 18. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has blamed India for carrying out Nijjars extrajudicial killing, a charge New Delhi rejects as absurd and politically motivated. On June 17, a day before his death, Nijjar met some officials from CSIS. Another meeting was scheduled for two days after his death, a CTV News report citing the Khalistani terrorists son Balraj Singh Nijjar said. Advertisement India has claimed that they provided a detailed dossier on Nijjar to the Canadian government and from there information was passed to the countrys intelligence. However, despite the fact that Nijjar was a New Delhi-designated terrorist, CSIS was in close contact with him. According to Indian intelligence sources, Nijjar was planning anti-India activities and was also in touch with Pakistani intelligence agency ISI. Canada considered Nijjar a Sikh activist and overlooked his extremist and anti-India activities. A request to comment on the secret meetings sent to CSIS through its media inquiries form has not yet been answered, and the article will be updated if/when CSIS responds. Meanwhile, a media report citing sources claimed that even after more than three months, the CSIS and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have no clue about the killers of Nijjar. Moreover, the Five Eyes intelligence that prompted Trudeaus allegations has not helped the CSIS either, as the agency has not been able to establish a connection between Nijjars murder and any Indian agent. A burnt car and CCTV footage of the incident is all that the agencies have in Nijjars case. As CSIS awaits a significant breakthrough in the case, the masked gunmen who carried out the attack continue to remain out of radar. A report has also claimed that Nijjars killing has something to do with an internal disagreement between members of a Gurudwara committee. A remand report filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the court in the Karuvannur Cooperative Bank scam points to the involvement of many prominent personalities in it. Terming the Karuvannur bank scam as an organised crime, the ED said the undue influence of political parties and certain individuals in the banks administration led to the scam. The accused organized themselves to commit the offence that pushed ordinary people into financial crisis and suicide, the report says. The ED had informed the court that Aravindakshan has a fixed deposit of 50 lakhs in Karuvannur Bank. Apart from this, Aravindakshans 90-year-old mother, whose monthly income is a pension of Rs. 1600 only, has a fixed deposit of Rs 63 lakh in Peringandur Bank. Advertisement The ED alleged that the fraud took place in Karuvannur Bank with the knowledge of high-profile figures in politics and the police. However, the EDs remand report does not name any high-profile figures. It was P R Aravindakshan, a local CPI-M leader and councillor of the Vadakkanchery municipality, who plotted the scheme to swindle money from the cooperative bank. Aravindakshan even issued death threats to those who discovered the fraud and also to those who offered information to the ED. The ED also says that Satheesh Kumar, the prime accused in the case and Aravindakshan travelled abroad together. Aravindakshan has also travelled abroad with a person named Chacko. The ED is also probing the sale of property in the name of Aravindakshans wife for Rs 85 lakh. Meanwhile, VB Sajilin, a Vadanappally native, on Thursday alleged that CPI-M leader and vice-president of Kerala Bank MK Kannan received a commission of Rs 3.5 lakh for helping him to avail a loan from Thrissur District Cooperative Bank. Senior Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Assembly VD Satheesan, on Thursday, reiterated the allegation that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan was protecting the culprits behind the Karuvannur bank scam. Speaking to media persons here, Satheesan said that the chief minister is defending and protecting those who looted over Rs 500 crore from cooperative banks in Thrissur alone. He further said that the CM Pinarayi Vijayan, who is holding an umbrella for looters, is denting the credibility of the cooperative sector in the back. Advertisement Pinarayi Vijayan had said on Wednesday that if one bad grain was found in a bowl of rice, the entire bowl cannot be thrown away. Responding to his statement, Satheesan said he needs to realise that the entire bowl was full of bad grains. Why does the chief minister, who defends the robbers, cant see the tears of the investors who lost their entire savings, Satheesan asked. The ethenic violence in Manipur between the Meitei and Kuki-Zomi communities reached near Chief Minister N Biren Singhs residence after a mob tried to target his ancestral home in Heingang in Imphal East on Thursday night. Around 500-600 people, some of them armed with sticks, marched towards CMs house but met with retaliatory action by security personnel who fired shots in the air to disperse the mob. The chief minister was not there since he and his family members live in a separate and well guarded home in the middle of Imphal city. Advertisement This appeared a coordinated attack on CMs house as two groups came from different directions, according to media reports. There has been a serious breakdown of law and order in Manipur since May this year when the violence between the two warring tribes first erupted. So far, more than 170 people have lost there lives while thousands stranded homeless. Untill last week, it appeared the state was slowly heading towards normalcy and internet services were resumed. However, the killing of two Meitei students who went missing in July reignited the violence. Earlier this week, disturbing pictures of bodies of the missing students went viral on social media. This triggered massive protests from student unions and Meitei tribe members. The protesters clashes with security personnel in Imphal, following which curfew was imposed in two districts Imphal East and West. Mobile internet services have also been snapped to stop the spread of fake news and misinformation. Meanwhile, the Opposition Congress has demanded immediate removal of Chief Minister Singh. Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge also criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not visiting the violence-hit. The situation in the state is not showing signs of improvement. In light of this, the BJP-led state government should be dismissed promptly. It is evident that PM Modis priorities lie elsewhere, and he seems more focused on his image and election campaigns, Congress said in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Days after Punjab Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwas claim that 32 Aam Aadmi Party or AAP MLAs are in touch with him, the police on Thursday morning arrested Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira from his Chandigarh residence in connection with a 2015 case registered against him under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. A team of Punjab Police raided Khairas residence in the morning and later detained him. The Congress party has termed his arrest vendetta politics of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party. On Tuesday, Bajwa claimed that 32 MLAs belonging to the Aam Aadmi Party are in touch with him and asserted that his party will be able to overthrow the Bhagwant Mann-led AAP government with their help. Advertisement The arrest also comes in the backdrop of brewing troubles between Congress and AAP both members of Oppositions INIDA alliance bloc over distribution of seats in Delhi and Punjab. While AAP is adamant of contesting all seven parliamentary seats in Delhi, the Congress has announced to contest all 13 Lok Sabha seats in the 2024 general elections. This contradicted the INDIA blocs resolution of contesting 2024 Lok Sabha elections together as far as possible. The arrest of Congress MLA Khaira is likely to create more difference among INDIA bloc partners. Wont tolerate injustice, says Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge Reacting to the arrest, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge said that his party will not tolerate any injustice. I am seeking details on itIf somebody does injustice, they dont stay for long. If they do injustice with us then we wont tolerate it, Kharge said. The BJP has also slammed AAP over the delay in action against Khaira and claimed that the decision to detain him was taken after Congress announcement to contest all seats in Punjab. The case is of 2015. AAP govt came into power in March 2022. Today we are in September 2023What was taking AAP and its police and government so long to take action? the BJP leader questioned while speaking to news agency ANI. It seems that this development comes after Congress said they will fight all seats in PunjabAfter the Congress and AAP have been fighting over the seven seats in Delhi, Poonwalla added. Bhagwant Mann has become thirsty for blood Meanwhile, the authorities produced Sukhpal Singh Khaira before the court in Fazilka. Speaking outside the court complex, the Congress MLA said that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has turned thirsty for blood. He also claimed that CM Mann could even get him killed. They used to say that we are doing Badlaav ki Rajneeti but they are doing Badla ki Rajneeti. Bhagwant Mann has become thirsty for blood, Khaira added. LONDON, September 28, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of B+ (Good) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of "bbb-" (Good) of Compagnie Centrale de Reassurance (CCR) (Algeria). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable. The ratings reflect CCRs balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its strong operating performance, neutral business profile and marginal enterprise risk management. CCRs balance sheet strength assessment reflects the companys strongest level of risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Bests Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), supported by relatively low underwriting leverage and good internal capital generation. The balance sheet was also strengthened by a DZD 5 billion (USD 36.6 million) share capital increase in 2022. The company benefits from a state guarantee in the form of an interest-free loan facility, covering potential losses arising from Algerias compulsory natural catastrophe scheme written by CCR, net of retrocession. A partially offsetting rating factor is CCRs moderate dependence on retrocession, which is used to protect peak exposures, notably domestically in Algeria. Reinsurance credit risk is managed through the use of a panel of financially sound retrocession partners. The balance sheet strength assessment also considers CCRs significant exposure to the elevated levels of economic, political and financial system risk associated with Algeria, where the company is domiciled, holds approximately 95% of its invested assets, and derives the majority of its business. CCR has a long-term track record of strong operating performance, with a five-year (2018-2022) weighted average return-on-equity of 13.9% (as calculated by AM Best). Operating results have been underpinned by strong and stable technical results, highlighted by a five-year (2018-2022) weighted average combined ratio of 82.0% (as calculated by AM Best). The companys underwriting profitability is driven by highly profitable domestic business, which compensates for the relatively weaker performance of its international portfolio. Results are supplemented by good investment returns, with a five-year average investment yield (including gains) of 5.1%. AM Best expects CCRs prospective underwriting profitability to remain robust, supported by relatively low net risk retention, a conservative underwriting approach and favorable domestic market conditions. Story continues CCRs neutral business profile reflects its dominant position in Algerias reinsurance market, where it benefits from compulsory reinsurance cessions and had an estimated market share of 65% in 2022, as measured by ceded premiums. The companys strong domestic market position, however, also creates a concentration within and reliance on the Algerian market, which remains a partially offsetting factor. In 2022, CCR wrote DZD 40 billion (USD 297 million) of gross written premium (GWP), of which 83% was generated in Algeria. The balance of GWP was represented by international business, the share of which has been gradually increasing in recent years. CCRs risk management framework is considered to be at an early stage of development, although this has been an area of focus and development for the company in recent years. AM Best expects risk management capabilities to continue to develop with the continued integration and further development of an internal capital model to assist the companys strategic decision-making process. This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Bests website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Bests Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Bests Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Bests Credit Ratings, Bests Performance Assessments, Bests Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Bests Ratings & Assessments. AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com. Copyright 2023 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928068629/en/ Contacts Katharine Campkin, ACA Financial Analyst +44 20 7397 4383 katharine.campkin@ambest.com Michael Dunckley, CFA Associate Director, Analytics +44 20 7397 0312 michael.dunckley@ambest.com Christopher Sharkey Associate Director, Public Relations +1 908 4882 2310 christopher.sharkey@ambest.com Al Slavin Senior Public Relations Specialist +1 908 882 2318 al.slavin@ambest.com Days after fresh violence erupted in Manipur, the Union Home Ministry on Thursday repatriated Srinagar Police Chief Rakesh Balwal to the northeastern state. Manipur has been witnessing ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki-Zomi communities since May this year. However, things began to return to normal until the pictures of two killed Meitei students went viral last week. The students went missing in July this year. As the news of their brutal killing spread, large scale protests from students and Meitei tribe members broke out across Manipur. The protesters clashed with police officials even as Chief Minister Biren Singh assured strict action against the perpetrators. Advertisement By bringing in Balwal, the Centre wants to contain the situation in the northeastern state. A 2012 batch IPS officer of Manipur cadre, Balwal was assigned to the Jammu and Kashmir police since 2021. He was posted in Srinagar as Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP). Prior to that, he was posted in the National Investigation Agency (NIA), which also probed the Pulwama attack in 2019. Mobile internet services suspended Disturbing images of the Manipur students had gone viral on social media on Tuesday. One image depicted the missing students seated in a grassy area with two armed individuals standing behind them, while another image showed their lifeless bodies. In response to the incident, mobile internet services have been temporarily suspended in Manipur, and Chief Minister Singh has assured that strict action will be taken against the perpetrators. The Opposition Congress, however, has demanded Singhs removal as Manipur CM. The grand-old-party also targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his decision to not visit the state. The situation in the state is not showing signs of improvement. In light of this, the BJP-led state government should be dismissed promptly. It is evident that PM Modis priorities lie elsewhere, and he seems more focused on his image and election campaigns, Congress stated in a tweet on X (formerly Twitter). Ahead of the bilateral meeting between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller Thursday said that Washington has already made its stand on Canada issue clear to New Delhi. Addressing a press briefing at White House, Millar refused to comment on the specific issues that will be taken up during the meeting between Jaishankar and Blinken, which is scheduled for later today. I dont want to preview the conversations he (Blinken) will have in that meeting, but as we have made clear, we have raised this; we have engaged with our Indian counterparts on this and encouraged them to cooperate with the Canadian investigation, and we continue to encourage them to cooperate, Mr Miller said. Advertisement The meeting comes in the backdrop of a serious diplomatic row between India and Canada after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus allegations of New Delhis role in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June this year. Nijjar, a Canadian citizen, was shot by two masked gunmen in the parking lot of a Gurudwara in Surrey, British Columbia on June 18. Last week, Trudeau told the Canadian Parliament that agencies were investigating credible allegations of Indias role in the killing of Nijjar. India termed his Trudeaus claims absurd and politically driven and asked Ottawa to provide specific evidence to back his claims. The allegations resulted in a massive diplomatic row, with both countries announcing a slew of measures against each other. India expelled a Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat action and suspended visa services for Canadian citizens. Earlier on Wednesday, Jaishankar said that it was not Government of Indias policy to carry out extra judicial killings in another country and demanded specific information, if any, to back Trudeaus claims. The US has, so far, taken a neutral stand and refrained from putting any blame on India. Blinken, however, said that US was deeply concerned about the Canadas allegations and that Washington would like to see accountability for the incident. The prominent Hindu festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi or Vinayaka Chavithi, is held in honour of the elephant-headed god Ganesha. It takes place on the fourth day of Bhadrapada, a Hindu month that often occurs in August or September. This years festival started on September 19. The celebration typically lasts 10 days, coming to an end on Anant Chaturdashi, the fourteenth day of the fortnight. Mumbai Advertisement Since Lord Ganesh is revered as Maharashtras patron god, more than 6000 idols are created in Mumbai each year. Although it is celebrated all throughout India, Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra experience the most splendor. One of the top destinations included in Maharashtra tour packages is Mumbai. The famous Maratha emperor Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj encouraged the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, which liberation fighter Lokmanya Tilak had revived. Pune One of Indias top Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations takes place in Pune, Maharashtra. The Peshwas, who revered Ganesha as their patron deity, are credited with spreading Ganesh worship throughout this region. It is currently the most happy occasion in Punes religious, cultural, and social life. The celebration lasts ten days. Hyderabad Hyderabad is one of the well-known locations in India to watch the lavish Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, along with Mumbai and Pune. In Hyderabad, the Ganapathi Navaratri utsavams begin on Vinayaka Chavithi (Ganesh Chaturthi) and conclude with Ganesh Immersion on Anantha Chaturdashi day. There are more than 75,000 Ganesh pandals in Hyderabad. Khairatabad, Balapur, Kamalanagar Chaitanyapuri, Durgam Cheruvu, Old City (Gowlipura), and New Nagole are renowned locations where Ganesha statues are built and fascinatingly ornamented. Goa Goans have a particular place in their hearts for the Ganesh festival. It offers a chance for enjoyment and merriment and also makes it easier for family and friends to get together. Different clubs and commercial associations decorate and install deity idols in tastefully designed pandals in varied sizes and shapes. The event is particularly significant in Mapusa, which is home to the well-known Ganeshpuri and Khandola temples. Marcela, which contains a number of Hindu temples, is one of the villages where it is most widely observed. Ganpatipule On the Konkan coast of Maharashtra, in the Ratnagiri district, is the little town of Ganpatipule. It includes a number of beaches and lookouts with breathtaking ocean views. The main appeal for hundreds of tourists visiting Ganapatipule each year is the 400-year-old Swayambhu Ganpati Temple on the beach itself. The distinctive Ganapati statue constructed on pule (white sand) is a feature of the Swayambhu Ganapati Temple of Ganapatipule. It is thought to have come into existence all by itself (swayambhu). Paschim Dwar Dewata is the name of one of Indias Ashta Ganapati temples. Chennai Chennai also celebrates Ganesha Chaturthi with zest and fervor, despite being less extravagant than the festivities in Mumbai. Many religious and cultural organizations participate in the practice by erecting idols of the god throughout the city. The idols frequently reflect particular ideas. For instance, one might have Ganesha as a fisherman and be based on the fishing community. Other materials used to create idols include bamboo and panchamritham, a substance produced from ghee, liquid jaggery, milk, honey, and yogurt. President Joe Bidens 2-year-old German Shepherd, Commander, was involved in another biting incident at the White House on Monday evening. This marks the 11th known biting episode linked to the young purebred German Shepherd. The victim in this instance was a female officer from the Uniformed Division, who received medical treatment from the White House medical office. Commanders history of biting incidents includes occurrences both at the White House and in Delaware. The recent incident highlights an ongoing issue. The conservative group Judicial Watch revealed in July that Commander had an involvement in nearly a dozen biting incidents. These records come through a Freedom of Information lawsuit. One email from the disclosed records detailed an incident in November 2022 where a Secret Service officer had to seek medical attention after Commander reportedly bit the officers arm and thighs. In another incident from October 2022, Commander charged at a Secret Service staffer, and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden reportedly struggled to regain control of the dog. Advertisement Joe Biden announced Commanders arrival through a Twitter post on December 2021. Welcome to the White House, Commander. pic.twitter.com/SUudQnPv29 President Biden (@POTUS) December 20, 2021 Commander joined the Biden family at the White House in December 2021, following the passing of their previous German Shepherd, Champ, in June 2021. Commander is the third dog to reside at the White House during President Bidens term, alongside Major. In addition to their dogs, the Bidens also have a cat named Willow. Elizabeth Alexander, the communications director for First Lady Jill Biden, acknowledged that the White House environment can be stressful for family pets. She expressed the Bidens gratitude to the Secret Service and executive residence staff for their efforts in maintaining safety for the first family and the nation. At the second Republican presidential debate, Indian-origin candidates Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy did not mince words when it came to attacking each other, with the former South Carolina Governor telling the tech entrepreneur that every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber. The debate on Wednesday night took place at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, and was hosted by the Fox Business Network and Univision. Besides Haley and Ramaswamy, the other participating candidates were Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, former Vice President Mike Pence, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum. Advertisement While former President Donald Trump skipped the debate this time as well, former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, who appeared in the first Republican presidential primary debate on August 23, did not meet the heightened polling and fundraising standards for Wednesdays event. The 38-year-old Ramaswamy irked Haley, 51, by defending his collaboration on Chinese short-video-making app TikTok with influencer Jake Paul, reports The New York Post. Theres exactly one person in the Republican Party which talks a big game about reaching young people, and thats me, the 38-year-old Indian-origin boasted. When it was her turn, Haley fired back and said: TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media assets that we could have Honestly, every time I hear you I feel a little bit dumber. She also touched on the national security concerns surrounding TikTok and referenced its historical ties to the Chinese Community Party. In his reply, Ramaswamy said: We will be better served as a Republican Party if were not sitting here hurling personal insults and actually have a legitimate debate about policy. Even during the first Republican presidential primary debate on August 23, Haley had criticised Ramaswamy taking aim at his foreign policy views. Meanwhile, some of the other participating candidates also took aim at the tech entreprenuer, who is the youngest among them all, reports The New York Post. Senator Scott said: Vivek just said we were all good people, and I appreciate that. Because last debate, he said we were all bought and paid for. I thought about that for a little while. I cant imagine how you could say that, knowing that you are just in business with the Chinese Communist Party and the same people that funded Hunter Biden millions of dollars was a partner of yours as well. Former Vice President Pence also slammed Ramaswamys resistance to military aid to war-torn Ukraine. Ramaswamy is currently polling in fourth place in the latest RealClearPolitics aggregate of the 2024 Republican pack. After a 15-year-old girl was fatally stabbed on her way to school on Wednesday, London police said that they had detained a youngster, igniting new concerns about the severity of knife crime in the UK. Around 8.30 am (0730 GMT), emergency personnel, including an air ambulance, were summoned to the site in Croydon, south London, in response to reports of a stabbing incident. Despite paramedics best efforts, the girl was declared dead at the scene 50 minutes later, according to the cops, who also reported that a 17-year-old boy was later taken into custody. Sadiq Khan, the mayor of London, expressed his heartbreak over the tragic incident and vowed to keep working day and night to end the scourge of knife crime in our city. Advertisement In the year ending in March 2023, 99 persons under the age of 25 were fatally injured in England and Wales by knives or other sharp objects, according to government statistics. 13 of them were minors, under the age of 16. According to data from the Office for National Statistics, there were 50,000 stabbing attacks in the year ending in March 2023, up 5% from the previous year and 75% from ten years prior. Detectives were questioning the suspect who was in custody, according to the police. Our first thoughts are with the family of this young girl, who has just received the most terrible news. The girls family is being supported by our officers, according to Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain of the Metropolitan Police. A boy wearing a school blazer allegedly stabbed the girl in the neck with a knife that was black, thin, and about a foot (30 centimeters) long, according to Victor Azare, a 50-year-old security guard on his way home from a night job. Many others attempted to save the girl as we sought to apprehend him. I was so astonished that I felt unsteady, the guard said. He told British media that it was someones daughter. According to media reports, the girl had just gotten off a bus and appeared to be having a disagreement with a boy when he attacked her. The child attended Old Palace of John Whitgift School, a private girls school in Croydon; her name has not yet been revealed. The school released a statement saying, We are deeply shocked by the senseless and tragic death of our much-loved and valued friend and pupil. The Old Palace neighbourhood will need some time to adjust to this dreadful news. The statement said, Above all, we express our sympathy and our condolences to the girls family at this incredibly trying time. For honouring a Nazi veteran during an event last week, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau apologised on behalf of the Canadian Parliament however, denied to accept the blame personally. The Opposition has come in a towering rage at PM Trudeau over the incident, demanding him to apologise, and calling it a huge embarrassment for the country. On September 22, during Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskyys speech in Canadas Parliament, 98-year-old Ukrainian Yaroslav Hunka, who served in the first Ukrainian division, also known as the SS division Galicia during World War II was honoured by the Speaker of the House of Commons of Canada Anthony Rota. This was a mistake that has deeply embarrassed Parliament and Canada. All of us who were in this House on Friday regret deeply having stood and clapped even though we did so unaware of the context, CBC News quoted Trudeau as saying in a brief statement to reporters. He also said that the Speaker was solely responsible for the invitation and recognition of this man, and he wholly accepted that responsibility and stepped down. It was a horrendous violation of the memory of the millions of people who died in the Holocaust, he said, adding the celebration of ex-soldier Yaroslav Hunka was deeply, deeply painful to Jewish people, Poles, Roma, the LGBT community and other racialized people in particular some of the groups that were targeted by the Nazi regime in the Second World War. Trudeau also said that Canada is deeply sorry for involving Zelenskyy, who was pictured applauding Hunka-an image that has been exploited by Russian propagandists, CBC News reported. Advertisement Canada has sent an apology to Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian commission through diplomatic channels, Trudeau added. Meanwhile, Canadas opposition leader, Pierre Poilevre, has castigate at the Trudeau government, asking if the country has seen a bigger diplomatic embarrassment in history. The success of diplomatic visits is the personal responsibility of the Prime Minister of Canada: Justin Trudeau. Instead, we have an unprecedented global embarrassment for our country under his watch. What a disgrace, he posted on X (formerly Twitter). He had earlier called the incident the greatest diplomatic embarrassment in the countrys history. Has there ever been a greater diplomatic embarrassment in the history of our country? he asked Earlier on Tuesday, Anthony Rota resigned as the Speaker of the Canadian House of Commons on Tuesday amid building pressure over the controversy, Canada-based Global News reported. Rota announced his resignation in the House of Commons Tuesday afternoon. His resignation takes effect at the end of business day Wednesday, he added. I must step down as your Speaker, he said, adding, I reiterate my profound regret. At the second Republican presidential debate, Indian-American aspirant Vivek Ramaswamy said that he favours stripping birthright citizenship for the children of illegal immigrants. Seven Republican candidates clashed at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in California on Wednesday night where Ramaswamy was asked what legal premise he would use to expel undocumented immigrants and their US-born children from the country. I favour ending birthright citizenship for the kids of illegal immigrants in this country, the biotech entrepreneur told Univision host Ilia Calderon. Advertisement Born to immigrant parents from India, the 38-year-old said that the children of undocumented immigrants born in the country are not entitled to US citizenship as their parents broke the law to be in the country. Asserting that he has read the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, Ramaswamy said stating from it that all persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the laws and jurisdiction thereof are citizens. Ramaswamys views corresponded with fellow Republican candidate and former President Donald Trump who vowed to end birthright citizenship for children of unauthorised immigrants if he wins the 2024 election. My policy will choke off a major incentive for continued illegal immigration, deter more migrants from coming and encourage many of the aliens Joe Biden has unlawfully let into our country to go back to their home countries. They must go back, Trump had said in a video message in May this year. He had also brought up the issue while he was in office. In 2018, Trump said he planned to issue an executive order that would end the automatic grant of citizenship to those born in this country to non-citizens. Besides the US, Canada and Mexico also offer birthright citizenship. During the debate, Ramaswamy also termed transgender as a mental health disorder while responding to a question about parental notification about their childrens gender identities. Hosted by the Fox Business Network and Univision, the debate was skipped by Trump and saw participation from Ramaswamy, former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, former Vice President Mike Pence, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum. Have an interesting bit of news youd like to see mentioned in the Along the Way column? Email it to Natasha Connolly at news@thesunchronicle.com. (Bloomberg) -- Ant Group Co.s consumer finance affiliate is raising 4.5 billion yuan ($616 million) from investors to revive growth after regulators wrapped up a multi-year crackdown on the Jack Ma-backed financial technology giant. Most Read from Bloomberg Ant Group will contribute 2.25 billion yuan to the plan while other investors include Sunny Optical Technology Group Co. and Transfar Zhilian Co., according to exchange filings on Thursday. Chongqing Ant Consumer Finance Co. registered capital will increase to 23 billion yuan, pending regulatory approval. Authorities ended an almost three-year long probe into the fintech giant by imposing a nearly $1 billion fine in July. Mas run-in with Beijing has cost his empire including Ant and Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. billions of dollars in lost valuation, including what would have been the largest initial public offering in history. Chongqing Ant combines the groups most lucrative online lending operations, called Huabei (Just Spend) and Jiebei (Just Lend). The division has been crucial in driving growth at Ants digital finance business, which contributed 63% of the firms revenue in the first half of 2020 before the authorities unleashed a barrage of rules. Ant will continue to hold 50% of the consumer finance company. It will have an estimated lending capacity of as much as 620 billion yuan, according to Bloomberg calculations. The fintech company has been trying to beef up its development in AI and its large language model and create new pockets of growth. Ants profit the quarter ended in March rose 17%, the first signs of improvement after the yearslong regulatory crackdown. Story continues (Updates with details lending capacity estimates, business details) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) -- Alphabet Inc.s Google Pixel is eroding the iPhones dominance in Japan as the Apple Inc. device gets pricier, finding success after years of misfires. Most Read from Bloomberg Google phones accounted for a record 12% share in the Asian country in the June quarter, six times what it was a year ago, according to Counterpoint Research data. During the same period, the iPhones market share slumped by almost as much: to 46% from 58% a year earlier. Japan is a key arena for the two Silicon Valley firms, as the worlds third biggest economy and a huge market for mobile software and games. The iPhone has been as dominant there as at home in the US, and its decline this summer was the first time it commanded less than half the Japanese market in two years. The plunging value of the yen pushed Apple to raise iPhone prices in Japan earlier than its recent global price hikes, and the cost of the device is proving a noticeable deterrent, at a time when the latest handsets have not offered must-have new features. Japanese users are becoming more pragmatic, Tom Kang, a Seoul-based analyst for Counterpoint, said in an interview. Theres now more opportunity for alternatives. Weve seen a little bit of growth in Sony and a little bit of growth in some other brands, but the growth of Google was most surprising. The yens weakness has also helped juice the Pixels sales: it makes the phone a bargain for consumers outside of Japan who want to buy the phone. The Pixel is offered in a limited number of countries and the yens slide toward its lowest level in more than three decades has made Japan the cheapest place to purchase the device. Story continues Japan is becoming the trans-shipment hub for Google Pixel devices, said Kang. So the iPhone is suffering from a weak yen and Google is benefiting from it. With the yen playing a decisive role in who gets a bigger share from one of the worlds largest smartphone markets, theres an open question around whether the trend will last. But a growing price sensitivity appears likely to weigh on iPhone sales in Japan for the foreseeable future. The major mobile carriers have cut back subsidies enticing customers to sign up for lengthy contracts, and many have instead turned to buying devices through independent channels. Japan is a huge success story for Google and the Pixel team, said Anshel Sag, principal mobile analyst at Moor Insights & Strategy. It appears that most of these devices are from the budget Pixel 6a and 7a series, which would likely mean that Google has successfully captured the middle of the Japanese smartphone market. The sales drop in Japan highlights the challenges ahead for Apple. The company posted its third straight quarter of declining sales and predicted a similar performance in the current period, hurt by an industrywide slump that has sapped demand for phones. The release of Apples latest iPhone 15 series may give its market share a bump, though the starting price of the iPhone 15 Pro Max was raised by $100 this year after eliminating a smaller storage tier offered in past years. Google is set to launch its latest Pixel device generation at an event on Oct. 4. Price is becoming an important factor, Kang said. Loyalty for Apple and iOS is much higher than Android, Id say. But Android devices always have the price advantage. --With assistance from Takashi Mochizuki. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Job Title: Service Documentation Specialist (Data Jobs) Organisation: Al-Mansour Automotive Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda About US: The conglomerate was first established in 1975 by the late Mr. Loutfy Mansour to enter the automotive market in Egypt. It didnt take long for Mansour to reach its record-breaking sales by becoming the exclusive dealer for General Motors (GM) in the same year and soon became a household name by 1980, franchising popular automotive brands; Opel, Chevrolet, Isuzu, and ACDelco. Fast forward to 2001, Mansour Automotive was given exclusive distribution rights for all General Motors brands and products in Egypt. For an outstanding 4 decades, Mansour Automotive has won the hearts and trust of millions of customers by following their philosophy With Mansour, you are in safe hands. Job Summary: The Service Documentation Specialist will be responsible for entering data accurately into computer systems. May also be responsible for organizing, collecting and managing data and files to be entered into the computer systems Key Duties and Responsibilities: Check the quality of highly standardized work undertaken by teams in accordance with strict quality standards, escalating any issues identified for resolution Create, organize and maintain files containing the correspondence and records of a senior colleague Follow a range of mandatory procedures to ensure that work is carried out to the required quality standards and/or to ensure adherence to external regulatory codes and internal codes of conduct Help manage internal client relationships by supporting others to build effective working relations Perform basic data reporting tasks to support others by using established procedures Produce accurate reports for others by collecting data from a variety of standard sources and inputting it into standard formats. Support others by carrying out basic data management tasks. Qualifications, Skills and Experience: The applicant must hold a Diploma in Relevant field of study preferred Two to three years of experience in financial service activity Computer skills Planning and Organizing Data Collection and Analysis Verbal Communication Numerical Skills Financial background Communication skills How to Apply: All candidates who wish to join Al-Mansour Automotive in this capacity should apply online at the link below. Click Here Deadline: 1st November 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 Job Title: Surveillance Detection Coordinator (High School Jobs) Organisation: United States US Embassy, US Mission in Uganda Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda Position Number: Kampala-2023-079 Salary: UGX 50,500,012 /Per Year About US Embassy: The United States Embassy in Kampala, Uganda has enjoyed diplomatic relations with Uganda for over 30 years. Ambassador Natalie E. Brown currently heads the U.S Mission to Uganda. The Mission is composed of several offices and organizations all working under the auspices of the Embassy and at the direction of the Ambassador. Among the offices operating under the U.S Mission to Uganda are: United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Peace Corps Job Summary: The Surveillance Detection Coordinator (SDC) reports directly to the Regional Security Officer (RSO) and provides daily oversight of the Surveillance Detection (SD) Program. The SDC provides the RSO with timely analysis of notable events and receives daily reports, which she/he is responsible for analyzing, translating, and inputting daily data into the Diplomatic Security Information Reporting (myDSIR) database. The SDC provides the direct supervision of SD Technician (if applicable) and two (2) SD Supervisor(s) and indirect supervision of six (6) SD Monitors. The area of responsibility and supervision encompasses the Embassy/Consulate/Consulate General/Embassy Branch Office and/or other U.S. Government (USG) facilities, or specific USG event venues, per direction of the RSO. Qualifications, Skills and Experience: NOTE: All applicants must address each selection criterion detailed below with specific and comprehensive information supporting each item. The applicants for the United States US Embassy Surveillance Detection Coordinator job opportunity should have completed high school. Required At least two (2) years of military, police, or private experience in the field of security which include six (6) months of investigative experience is required. In addition one (1) year of supervisory experience is required. General knowledge of surveillance techniques. Familiarities with normal traffic patterns, pedestrian behavior, facilities, and travel routes. Knowledge of local law enforcement capabilities is required. Must possess a driver license with classes B, CM, DL. Ability to manage the work of others in a team environment is required. This may be tested. Language: English level III (Good working knowledge) Reading/Writing/Speaking is required. Host country language level III (Good working knowledge). Reading/Writing/Speaking is required. This may be tested. How to Apply: All those interested in working with the United States Embassy, US Mission in Kampala should send their applications online at the link below. Click Here Deadline: 7th 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 Emmy-award winning comedian Trevor Noah cancelled both his shows in Bengaluru. The comedian was supposed to perform at Manpho Conventional Centre in Manyata Tech Park at 7.30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 27, and Thursday, September 28. Noah came on stage and realised the audience couldn't hear him, after which he cancelled the show. "Dear Bengaluru India, I was so looking forward to performing in your amazing city but due to technical issues weve been forced to cancel both shows," Trevor Noah wrote on the social media platform X. "We tried everything but because the audience cant hear the comedians on stage theres literally no way to do a show," he wrote. Several fans battled massive traffic jams to reach the venue, while several others gave away their tickets on social media as they were unable to reach the venue. The cancellation became fodder for several jokes, with many saying that Noah got to see the real Bengaluru where traffic jams are commonplace. Bengaluru wanted to experience Trevor Noah, but Trevor Noah ended up experiencing Bengaluru. Ramanujam (@nimmajji) September 27, 2023 Bengaluru wanted to experience Trevor Noah, but Trevor Noah ended up experiencing Bengaluru., one user wrote on X. People selling tickets for the #TrevorNoah show because they are stuck in traffic and can't make it to the show, is this week's #PeakBangalore moment, wrote another user. People selling tickets for the #TrevorNoah show because they are stuck in traffic and cant make it to the show, is this week's #PeakBangalore moment. Chatura Padaki (@chaturap) September 27, 2023 Another X user wrote, "This has to be the shortest performance I have ever paid and braved through Bangalore traffic to watch! Beyond disappointed about @Trevornoah's show getting canned in Bengaluru!! I only have @bookmyshow to blame for their absolutely shoddy job of organising the most basic things". Another user posted, Trevor Noah got stuck in Bengaluru Traffic & reached his own show late. People stuck in ORR traffic for 2-3 hours unable to move, sold their tickets on IG/X. Some reached & Trevor cancelled the show cause of bad acoustics. He's probably already writing jokes on BLR's traffic." Trevor Noah got stuck in Bengaluru Traffic & reached his own show late. People stuck in ORR traffic for 2-3 hours unable to move, sold their tickets on IG/X. Some reached & Trevor cancelled the show cause of bad acoustics. He's probably already writing jokes on BLR's traffic. pic.twitter.com/ZmM9L2xySu Waseem (@WazBLR) September 27, 2023 Apart from waterlogging in several parts of the city due to heavy rains, there was heavy traffic congestion on the Outer Ring Road (ORR), and there were vehicle breakdowns too. Noah started his India tour in Delhi. He performed at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium on September 22, 23 and 24. He is scheduled to perform at NSCI Dome, Mumbai, on September 30 and October 1. BookMyShow apologised for the cancellation of the show too. Bengaluru, we are extremely sorry for the inconvenience caused at Trevor Noahs Off The Record show at Manpho Convention Centre on September 27th. The Bengaluru leg of the India Tour for both September 27th & 28th stands cancelled. All customers who purchased tickets for both shows will get a complete refund within 8-10 working days. We deeply regret this experience that our valuable customers faced and hope to be able to bring Trevor back to this amazing city at the earliest, they wrote. A large group of people protesting against the killing of two Meitei students in Manipur tried to attack Chief Minister N. Biren Singhs private residence at Heingang locality of Imphal on Thursday night, despite a security clampdown in the district. Security forces managed to stop the mob around 100-150 metres away from the house, police said. There was nobody in the house at the time of the incident. Singh lives in a separate, well-guarded official bungalow in the centre of the state's capital. A police officer told news agency PTI that two groups of people came from different directions and approached the CM's ancestral residence but they were stopped. Several rounds of tear gas shells were fired by RAF and state police personnel to disperse the mob. The protesters also targeted the residences of state BJP president Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi and BJP MLA Soraisam Kebi in Imphal East district. Manipur has been witnessing a fresh wave of agitation over the past three days since photos of two missing studentsHijam Linthoingambi, 17, and Phijam Hemjit, 20who were killed by militants, started circulating on social media. On Wednesday, protesting students tried to hold a march towards the CM Bungalow and Raj Bhavan, alleging that the chief minister and other ministers remained silent against the violent activities of the Kuki militants and their supporters. The protesters also torched two vehicles inside the Deputy Commissioners office in Imphal and another civilian vehicle parked nearby the DC office. Authorities have re-imposed curfew in Imphal East and West as the two districts witnessed violent protests since Tuesday, injuring 65 people. Meanwhile, the state government on Thursday constituted a committee to verify complaints of alleged use of excessive force on protesters, mainly students, by security forces. The committee will be headed by IGP (Administration) K Jayanta, the order said, adding that it will "submit the report at the earliest." The Tamil Nadu police have warned of stern action against those spreading fake news on the ongoing Cauvery water-sharing dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Reportedly, the police have registered against two persons in different parts of the state for spreading fake news on the issue. The Tamil Nadu DGP office, in a statement issued on Wednesday, said amid protests by certain organisations in Karnataka against the release of Cauvery water from Kabini dam to Tamil Nadu, a person in Madurai and another Tirunelveli has spread images of an attack on a lorry driver, which happened years ago, as a recent incident on social media. According to reports, the individuals spread images of the incident which happened a few years ago on Facebook. Madurai and Tirunelveli police have registered a case against the individuals for trying to law and order issue. The accused are at large and police are on the lookout for the accused. 'Kannada Okkuta', an umbrella organisation for Kannada organisations, on Wednesday claimed that the dawn to dusk bandh called by them on September 29, to protest against the release of Cauvery river water to neighbouring Tamil Nadu, will be successful, and warned the state government against measures to curtail it. As part of the bandh from 6am to 6pm on Friday, there will be a massive protest procession from Town Hall to Freedom Park in the city, in which people from all walks of life are likely to participate, the organisers said. They have said that the bandh is for the entire Karnataka and that they will try to shut highways, toll gates, rail services, and also airports. The Bengaluru bandh called by 'Karnataka Jala Samrakshana Samiti', an umbrella outfit of farmers and Kannada organisations, and backed by the BJP and JD(S) on Tuesday in protest against the release of Cauvery river water to Tamil Nadu evoked a partial response. (With PTI inputs.) Reacting to the arrest of Punjab MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday said his party would not tolerate injustice. Kharge, however, said that he doesn't have more details of the matter as he was in Bengaluru and came to Chhattisgarh to attend a pre-planned state government event. Khaira was arrested by Punjab police from his Chandigarh residence earlier in the day for his alleged involvement in smuggling of drugs and money laundering. "I will take its details...But whatever may be the case, if someone does injustice, they don't survive for long. If anyone does injustice to us, then we are not the ones who will tolerate it," Kharge said while speaking to reporters in Chhattisgarhs Sumabhata after attending the 'Krishak-sah-Shramik Sammelan'. Khaira was arrested in connection with a case registered in Jalalabad in 2015 under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Nine people, including Gurdev Singha close aide of Khairahas already been convicted in the case. Police had recovered two kg of heroin, 24 gold biscuits, one country-made pistol, a .315-bore pistol and two Pakistani SIM cards from them. Khaira's name cropped up later during the police probe. The charges against Khaira include supporting an international gang of smugglers, having sheltered them and receiving financial benefits from drug traffickers, and enjoying the proceeds of crime. His arrest has sparked off a war of words between the Congress and the ruling AAP. The Congress has accused the Bhagwant Mann government of targeting its leaders by slapping false cases on them. The BJP, too, has criticised the arrest of Khaira, saying the AAP government in the state was misusing the police. The arrest of Punjab Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira by the state police comes as a blow to seat sharing efforts within the INDIA alliance and is also expected to damage the image of unity which the leaders of the parties that are part of the bloc have attempted to project in recent months. Khaira, MLA from Bholath and the chairman of the All India Kisan Congress, was arrested on Thursday by Punjab Police for alleged involvement in smuggling of drugs and money laundering. The development, coming in the midst of efforts within the INDIA alliance to sew tie-ups at the state level for the Lok Sabha polls, is expected to have a major political repercussion. A war of words between the state units of the Congress and the AAP in Punjab was already on. Punjab Congress leaders have accused the ruling AAP of targeting its leaders by slapping false cases on them. Congress Legislature Party leader Partap Singh Bajwa has claimed that 32 AAP MLAs were in touch with him and they would cross over to the Congress after the Lok Sabha elections. Majority of the Punjab Congress leaders have opposed an alliance with the AAP for the coming LS elections. They have conveyed their views in this regard to the party high command, pointing out that going in for a seat-sharing arrangement with the AAP would go against the Congress' role as the main opposition party in the state. They have also pointed out that the ruling AAP has gone after the state Congress leaders and that made the idea of having an alliance with the AAP all the more insupportable. The Punjab Congress has been looking at the LS elections as an opportunity to stage a political comeback and assesses that it has a good chance of winning on most of the 13 parliamentary constituencies on offer in the state. On the other hand, the AAP, after making some noises initially about getting into a seat-sharing arrangement in the state, is also talking about fighting all the 13 seats on its own. Another dimension to the development is the bitter history that Khaira has with the AAP. He was leader of opposition, as an AAP MLA, in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha from July 2017 to July 2018. He had quit the AAP in January 2019. The Congress has described Khaira's arrest as an act of political vendetta. Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring said Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge called him in the morning and asked the state unit to fight for Khaira. The BJP has criticised the arrest of Khaira, saying the AAP government in the state was misusing the police. It also, however, has used the development to talk about divisions in the INDIA alliance. In a dramatic turn to the Ujjain minor rape case, an accused arrested by the police got injured, apparently in a bid to escape from police custody on Thursday. The Ujjain police have denied reports that there was an encounter with the accused and he received bullet injuries. The accused, Bharat Soni, is an auto rickshaw driver and was the only one to rape the girl, Ajay Verma, in-charge of Mahakal police station in Ujjain, told media persons. Earlier, police had said that five auto rickshaw drivers with whom the girl was seen in CCTV footage had been detained for questioning. There had been apprehension of gang rape/multiple rape given the serious nature of injuries to the survivor. However, police have now confirmed rape by only Soni. The injured accused was brought to the district hospital. Verma said that Soni had been taken to the spot of crime in Jeevankhedi to collect evidence, but tried to escape. The accused fell down in the bid and got injured. Two cops including a head constable and a sub-inspector -were also injured in the chase, Verma said. In the videos available, quite serious injuries with bleeding is seen in his left leg. To the pointed question whether the accused was hit by bullet, Verma said that there was no firing and there were no actions that would violate human rights of the accused. Superintendent of Police (SP), Ujjain, Sachin Sharma had told media persons that bloodstains were found on the seat of vehicle of one of the suspects. Meanwhile, the survivor has been identified as a tribal girl, 13, belonging to a village in Jaitwara of Satna district of Madhya Pradesh, about 740kms from Ujjain, the spot of crime. The girl, said to be slightly intellectually disabled, was reported missing by her grandfather to the Jaitwara police on Monday, the same day as she was seen in a dishevelled, blood-soaked condition on Ujjain streets. According to the FIR registered in Jaitwara police station, the girl went missing on Sunday. The grandfather told the police that she was at home at around 10 am when he went out to graze goats, but was missing when he returned at around 6 pm. They searched for her overnight in vain. The girls mother is said to have left the home when the survivor was just a year old and her father is also said to be mentally unstable. The grandfather takes care of the family. Additional superintendent of police, Satna, Shivesh Singh Baghel said that the FIR mentioned that the girl had been wearing a school uniform (blue salwar, jacket and white kurta) when she was last seen at home. The fact that the Ujjain survivors description in newspaper reports mentioned a school uniform, made us look at the incident and we thought it was the same missing girl. A team of senior officers have been sent to Ujjain along with the relatives of the girl and further legal action will be taken based on the inquiry and developments in Ujjain, he said. Sources said that the grandfather of the girl recognised her from the CCTV grabs shown to him. The Ujjain SP also confirmed that the survivor was from Satna and said that the technical evidence suggested that she had travelled to Ujjain alone. Sources said that she might have come by train as there is connectivity between Jaitwara and Ujjain. Earlier, there were speculations that the girl might be from Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh, based on the dialect she was speaking. However, Jaitwara is close to the UP border and the dialect used is similar. The incident has caused shockwaves across the country, especially as the girl kept roaming around residential colonies and busy streets for about two-and-half hours in half-naked and blood-soaked condition, but no one helped her or reported the matter to police. Finally, a priest Rahul Sharma at Dandi Ashram covered her up, fed her and called the police and medical assistance. While the Congress has been in an attacking mode with leaders from state to national level including ex-president Rahul Gandhi condemning the incident and demanding action, the response of the government has been quite lukewarm. Home minister Narottam Mishra had said on Wednesday evening that a SIT had been constituted, a suspect had been detained and on the basis of interrogation, stringent action will be taken. However, CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan was seen dodging the media's questions on the incident in Bhopal earlier in the day. CRY decries community insensitivity, seeks punishment Commenting on the incident of child rape in Ujjain, Soha Moitra, the Regional Director (North) of NGO Child Rights and You (CRY) said, It is heart-wrenching to see how helplessly the child went door to door seeking help for more than two hours but no one bothered to step out and help. Whats more, some of them actually shooed her, as reported by the media. This manifests the prevailing social mind-set where there is a clear lack of humanity and people dont even bother to come to support a girl child in distress. On one hand, it indicates the nonchalance of the people at large, and also the social perception and stigma, which, in a way, is one of the inherent causes behind the increase of sexual offences against children. Also, a clear reluctance to report such cases to the police is manifested, which comes from a sheer lack of awareness and misinformation about the existing legal provisions mentioned in the POCSO Act, Moitra said. She also mentioned that the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 clearly states that any person (including the child), with an apprehension that an offence under POCSO Act is likely to be committed or has knowledge that such an offence has been committed, is bound to report to the Special Juvenile Police Unit of the local police. The Act also states that any person, who fails to report the commission of an offence or who fails to record such offence shall be punished with imprisonment up to six months or with fine or with both, she added. In this case those who shunned away the child, knowingly or unknowingly committed the crime by not reporting the case. Thus, they must also be brought to punishment under the POCSO Act, Moitra said. Highlighting CRYs policy of zero-tolerance towards sexual offences committed against children, she said, CRY has always believed that child protection in our country cannot be ensured with just having legislations and numerous guidelines in place. We as a country need to commit to cultivate a culture of zero tolerance for violence against children. We should be vigilant and cognizant of the fact that children are at risk with gaps in infrastructure, processes and systems as well as public awareness. It is non-negotiable for the state and other duty bearers to equip themselves in recognizing these risks and put forth robust systems and processes to assess and eliminate the risks. Considering the rising graph of crime against children in the country any child can fall prey to such heinous crime. Therefore, we not only demand stringent action against the accused, but also urge the community to be more aware about their responsibilities as citizens, she added. Eminent agricultural scientist M.S. Swaminthan passed passed away in Chennai on Thursday. He was 98. Hailed as the father of Green Revolution in India, Swaminathan is credited with developing high-yield varieties of paddy and wheat that helped farmers improve the produce. Swaminathan, who started his career in 1949, researching the genetics of crops like potato, wheat and rice, joined hands with agriculture ministers C. Subramaniam and Jagjivan Ram in the 1960s to spearhead the Green Revolution that paved way for a leap in productivity of these food crops with the use of chemical-biological technology. Swaminathan worked with American farm scientist and Nobel Laureate Norman Borlaug to develop the high-yielding varieties. Swaminathan, recipient of the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and the Padma Vibhushan, was also conferred the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1971. He was awarded the first World Food Prize in 1987 following which he set up the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) in Taramani, Chennai. Wheat production doubled in just a few years, making the country self-sufficient and saving millions from extreme food deprivation, the World Food Prize Foundation stated on its website in a note about Swaminathan's works. Swaminathan learned of Borlaugs newly developed Mexican dwarf wheat variety and invited him to India. The two scientists worked side by side to develop wheat varieties that would yield higher levels of grain as well as develop stalk structures strong enough to support the increased biomass, it further stated. Swaminathan has also held several administrative positions like Director of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute and chair of the National Commission of Farmers. He also became chair of numerous prestigious international conferences, including the 1974 United Nations World Food Congress in Rome. He is survived by three daughters Soumya Swaminathan, Madhura Swaminathan, and Nitya Swaminathan. Punjab Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira was arrested by the Punjab Police on Thursday in connection with a 2015 drug case. Dramatic scenes unfolded during the arrest after a family member of Khaira went live on Facebook during the raids. Khaira, an MLA from Bholath in Kapurtala, is also the chairman of All India Kissan Congress. The drugs case was registered in March 2015 at Jalalabad in Fazilka and nine people were booked in the case and later convicted under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. However, the Supreme Court stayed the trial court proceedings against Khaira who was summoned as an additional accused in the matter in 2017. In the video, Khaira could be seen arguing with the police team and asking them to show him the arrest warrant. The Bholath legislator could also be seen asking for the identity of the police officers who were part of the raiding team. The MLA then asks the official about the case. The official is heard telling him that it is the NDPS case to which Khaira said that the case had already been quashed by the Supreme Court. When Khaira asked the team where he was being taken, a police official told him that he was being taken to Jalalabad in Fazilka. Khaira also seen claimed that he was being apprehended in a fake case and that a "jungle raj" was prevailing in the state. Khaira also protested against the police for entering his bedroom in the morning. Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring took to Twitter to protest against the arrest. "The recent arrest of @INCPunjab MLA @SukhpalKhaira ji smacks of Political Vendetta, it is an attempt to intimidate the opposition and is a ploy of the @AAPPunjab govt to distract from core issues. We stand strongly with Sukhpal Khaira and will take this fight to its logical conclusion," he posted on X. The incident is likely to widen the rift between AAP and Congress in Punjab despite both parties being part of the INDIA bloc alliance. The rivalry worsened after AAP announced that it would contest all 13 seats in the Lok Sabha elections. Congress too declared that it would contest all the seats in Punjab. Fresh violence rocked Manipur following the death of two students, leading to protests by students and youth in the state. Amidst ongoing protests, the Centre has transferred back senior IPS officer Rakesh Balwal back to Manipur cadre. Fresh violence broke out in the state following the death of two youths - Phijam Hemajit and Hijam Linthoingambi, who reportedly went missing on July 6 this year. A CBI team, led by the special director of the agency has reached Imphal to investigate the deaths. Briefing the media on Tuesday, Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh he has informed Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the case and added the case is being taken seriously. Biren Singh said the State Government has been taking all steps to restore peace under the supervision of the Prime Minister and Union Home Minister. Following violence, a curfew was imposed in Imphal and according to reports, curfew relaxation has been cancelled in Imphal East and West districts from 4pm on Wednesday till further orders. The Centre has rushed senior IPS officer Rakesh Balwal from Jammu and Kashmir to Manipur amid fresh violence in the northeastern state. Balwal, a 2012 batch IPS officer serving as Srinagar senior superintendent of police (SSP), has been transferred to his parent cadre Manipur where the situation has been tense for the past few months. He took charge as Srinagar SSP in late 2021. "The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the proposal of the Ministry of Home Affairs for premature repatriation of Rakesh Balwal, IPS, from AGMUT cadre to Manipur cadre," an official order said. Before taking charge as Srinagar SSP, Balwal was on deputation with the NIA for three-and-half years as superintendent of police and was a member of the team that investigated the 2019 Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives. More than 180 people have been killed and several hundred injured since ethnic violence broke out in Manipur on May 3, when a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts to protest against the majority Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status. A fresh bout of violence, this time led by students, broke out in the state capital on Tuesday after photos of the bodies of two youths who went missing in July went viral on social media. Violent protests continued till the early hours of Thursday with a mob vandalising the deputy commissioner's office in Imphal West and torching two four-wheelers, officials said. The chief minister said security forces have been advised to exercise maximum restraint against protesters. Action would be initiated if security personnel use excessive action against the public, especially the students in controlling their agitation, Singh said. Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal valley, while tribals, including Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40 per cent and reside mostly in the hill districts. However, Manipur police claimed forces were attacked with stones and they used minimum force to repel them. There were several protests and rallies in connection with the viral photos of the dead bodies of two missing students. Miscreants in crowd used iron pieces and stones (marbles) against security forces. In retaliation security forces used minimum force to disperse the congregation and fired some tear gas shells in which some people got injured, Manipur police tweeted. (With PTI inputs.) Newcomer Ramaswamy was targeted by his GOP rivals in the second debate as they wanted to avoid a repeat of the first debate, wherein the Indian-origin tech entrepreneur stood out amid a no-show from former President Donald Trump. GOP hopeful Nikki Haley lashed out at fellow Indian-origin candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, saying she feels dumber the more she listens to him. Ramaswamy defended himself for opening a TikTok account after he was persuaded by YouTuber Jake Paul, saying if Republicans needed to win the 2024 polls, they need to reach out to the next generation of young Americans where they are. He was responding to moderator Stuart Varney who asked him if it was presidential to be easily persuaded by an influencer. Haley grabbed the chance and pounced upon Ramaswamy, saying this is infuriating because TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media apps... Everytime I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber. Haley alleged that China is using the data of TikTok's American users. "What they're doing is 150 million people are on TikTok," Fox News quoted Haley as saying. "That means they [China] can get your contacts, can get your financial information, they can get your emails, they can get your text messages. China knows exactly what they are doing and what we've seen is you've gone and helped China make medicines, in China not America, and you're now wanting kids to go get on this social media that dangerous for all of us." Ramaswamy, accepting that he is a newcomer, told the audience, Let me level with all of you, I'm the new guy here and so I know I have to earn your trust. What do you see? You see a young man who's in a bit of a hurry, maybe a little ambitious, bit of a know-it-all it seems at times. I'm here to tell you I don't know it all. Grabbing another opportunity to target Ramaswamy over his Chinese business, We can't trust you, we can't trust you. Later, Ramaswamy said if he wins the polls, he will surround himself with the "best and brightest" people and will always listen to what others have to say because he is not a "know it all." "It's a shame that Nikki Haley feels she has to resort to personal attacks in lieu of an actual vision for the country," Ramaswamy spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin told Fox News Digital in a statement. "I'm sure she didn't launch personal attacks in the boardroom at Boeing, and the American people expect the same as part of the electoral process." South Carolina Senator Tim Scott went after Ramaswamy, pointing out his business ties to the Chinese Communist Party. Talking about his Chinese business connection, Ramaswamy said, When every other CEO expanded into the Chinese market you know what I did with my first company? We opened a subsidiary in China. But you know what I did that was different than every other company, we got the hell out of there. Haley took over and said, Right before you ran for president! Ramaswamy maintained that it was earlier than that and that he made a commitment we would never do business in China, according to Daily Mail. Former VP Mike Pence too piled on Ramaswamy, saying, Well first let me say I'm glad Vivek pulled out of his business deal in 2018 in China. That must have been about the time he decided to start voting in presidential elections. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will meet US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday amid the diplomatic crisis between India and Canada over the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The duo had met last week on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) meeting. Though the US stated that the Canada issue did not crop up during last week's meeting, the officials from both sides haven't revealed the agenda of Thursday's meeting. However, the issue is likely to come up during the talks. "I don't want to preview the conversations he (Blinken) will have in that meeting (with Jaishankar) , but as we've made clear, we've raised this; we have engaged with our Indian counterparts on this and encouraged them to cooperate with the Canadian investigation, and we continue to encourage them to cooperate," State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters. Te meeting was reportedly scheduled much before the Canadian crisis broke out. Meanwhile, the US State Department clarified that the India-Canada diplomatic standoff didn't come up during last week's meeting between Jaishankar and Blinken. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa were also present at the Quad meeting. "It was a meeting of a number of countries and it did not come up in that meeting. But we have engaged with our Indian counterparts on this issue and urged them to fully cooperate with the Canadian investigation," the State Department spokesperson said. Besides Blinken, the external affairs minister is expected to have a series of meetings with senior officials of the Biden administration, review the progress made between the two countries after the historic State Visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June and talk about other regional and global issues. The minister is also expected to engage with the diaspora, think-tank community and interact with leaders from the corporate sector. (With inputs from PTI) On September 25, 2023, Aristotle Balogh, the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Airbnb Inc (NASDAQ:ABNB), sold 2,750 shares of the company. This move is part of a broader trend of insider selling at Airbnb Inc, which we will explore in this article. Aristotle Balogh is a seasoned technology executive with a wealth of experience in the tech industry. As the CTO of Airbnb Inc, he is responsible for overseeing the company's technological strategy and ensuring its digital platforms and systems are robust, secure, and innovative. His role is crucial in a company like Airbnb Inc, which relies heavily on its digital platform to connect hosts and guests worldwide. Airbnb Inc is a global online marketplace that connects people who want to rent out their homes with people who are looking for accommodations in that locale. It currently covers more than 100,000 cities and 220+ countries worldwide. The company's platform is accessible via its websites and mobile apps. Over the past year, the insider has sold a total of 149,750 shares and purchased 0 shares. This recent sale of 2,750 shares is part of this larger trend. The insider transaction history for Airbnb Inc shows that there have been 0 insider buys in total over the past year, while there have been 86 insider sells over the same timeframe. Aristotle Balogh, Airbnb Inc's CTO, Sells 2,750 Shares The trend of insider selling could be a signal to investors about the insider's perspective on the company's future prospects. However, it's important to note that insider selling can occur for a variety of reasons, and it doesn't necessarily indicate a negative outlook for the company. On the day of the insider's recent sale, shares of Airbnb Inc were trading for $130.8 apiece, giving the stock a market cap of $85.52 billion. The price-earnings ratio is 39.08, which is higher than the industry median of 19.09 and lower than the companys historical median price-earnings ratio. Story continues Despite the insider selling, Airbnb Inc appears to be significantly undervalued based on its GF Value. With a price of $130.8 and a GuruFocus Value of $232.20, Airbnb Inc has a price-to-GF-Value ratio of 0.56. Aristotle Balogh, Airbnb Inc's CTO, Sells 2,750 Shares The GF Value is an intrinsic value estimate developed by GuruFocus. It is calculated based on historical multiples that the stock has traded at, a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on the companys past returns and growth, and future estimates of business performance from Morningstar analysts. In conclusion, while the insider's recent sale of shares may raise some eyebrows, the company's valuation metrics suggest that Airbnb Inc's stock is significantly undervalued. As always, investors should conduct their own research and consider multiple factors before making investment decisions. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Not one incident, but two: Media reports quoted police as saying that two shootings at a university hospital and a home in the Dutch port city of Rotterdam claimed multiple lives on Thursday. Location: The medical facility was identified as Rotterdam's Erasmus Medical Centre. A fire was also reported at both places (the hospital and the nearby apartment) following the violent crime. The shooter reportedly opened fire inside a classroom at the hospital, initial reports said. Casualties: The details of the victims are withheld as the Rotterdam Police Department is in the process of informing their families. Details of the dead will be made public after the process is completed, the department said on X (formerly Twitter) Suspected attacker held: A suspect, 32-year-old male, has been arrested after the shootings, media reports confirmed. He was picked up from the helipad of Erasmus Medical Centre, a report said. The man donned military clothing and opened fire using a handgun, the Associated Press said in a report. No info on the motive behind the attack was released by the investigation team. Further details were not immediately available. Taiwanese billionaire Pierre Chen, who owns more wine than could be drunk in a lifetime, is auctioning off 25,000 bottles. Some rare bottles are expected to fetch as much as $190,000 each. According to Sotheby's the collection is expected to sell for about $50 million and the bottles are from the largest and most expensive wine collection ever to be offered at auction, CNN reported. George Lacey, head of Sotheby's Wine for Asia says, Chens wine knowledge puts him in a league of his own. Lacey described the collection as staggering both in volume and range. There is currently more wine in his cellars than any one individual could ever hope to drink in a lifetime, but wine is for drinking, he added. The bottles that will be put up for auction represent just 'a fraction' of his collection. Chen is currently ranked as Taiwan's 10th richest person by Forbes and the world's 515th richest person, with an estimated fortune of $5.5 billion. The billionaire started collecting wines from Bordeaux in the 1970s and later expanded to the then much-less-fashionable wines from the Burgundy winemaking region. There are rare vintages from the storied La Tache vineyard. Then there's a rare six-litre bottle of 1982 Chateau Petrus, a Bourdeaux red, which could fetch up to $ 65,000. There are also white burgundies and Champagnes by Dom Perignon and Krug. Taiwan's president launched the island's first domestically made submarine for testing Thursday at a port in Kaohsiung. The submarine, if successful in its tests, will be a major breakthrough for Taiwan in shipbuilding and design. In the past, a domestically made submarine was considered impossible, but today a submarine designed and built by our countrymen is in front of you, said President Tsai Ing-wen at the launch ceremony. It is the concrete realization of our resolution to protect" Taiwan. The process was torturous, said Cheng Wen-lon, head of Taiwan's CSBC Corporation, which led the construction of the submarine. However, its completion marks an important milestone in Taiwan's strategy of adopting asymmetric warfare. Although we have worked quietly the past several years, it doesn't mean the process was very smooth," he said at the ceremony held in CSBC's shipyard. After years of construction and design, the prototype will begin a test in the harbour before being tested in the ocean. The submarine, named Hai Kun, or literally Sea Kun, is named for a type of fish found in Chinese literature called Kun, of legendary proportions. It took seven years of design and construction. It will only be handed over to the military after passing both its harbour and ocean-faring tests. Taiwan plans to build another submarine if successful, with both to be deployed by 2027, according to the semi-official Central News Agency. Taiwan began the expensive and time-consuming task of building its own submarines after Beijing successfully prevented it from purchasing such craft from abroad through the use of economic and diplomatic threats. In recent years, China has stepped up its military exercises aimed at the island, sending fighter jets and navy vessels to patrol and hold drills in the waters and skies near Taiwan. In attendance at the ceremony, was the head of the US's de facto embassy Sandra Oudkirk, as well as the Japanese and Korean trade delegations based in Taiwan. Trudeau apologises after Nazi unit war veteran honoured in Canadian Parliament Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has apologised for the Canadian Parliament's recognition of a man who fought for a Nazi unit during World War II, an incident that drew global condemnation and was termed by the Opposition as the "biggest single diplomatic embarrassment" in the country's history. Trudeau, already under pressure for jeopardising Canada's relations with India over the killing of a Khalistani separatist in Canada, said the Canadian government has reached out to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who was present during the event last Friday, in the wake of the incident. Russia has painted his enemies in Ukraine as neo-Nazis" after the incident although Zelenskyy is Jewish and lost relatives in the Holocaust. Speaker Anthony Rota, who has assumed responsibility for inviting Yaroslav Hunka, 98, resigned on Tuesday. The incident has drawn global condemnation. Hunka, who fought with a Nazi unit in World War Two, got a standing ovation and was praised as a Ukrainian and Canadian "hero". He served in the 14th Waffen-SS Grenadier Division, a voluntary unit made up mostly of ethnic Ukrainians under Nazi command. Division members are accused of killing Polish and Jewish civilians, although the unit has not been found guilty of any war crimes by a tribunal. "This was a mistake that has deeply embarrassed Parliament and Canada. All of us who were in this House on Friday regret deeply having stood and clapped even though we did so, unaware of the context," Trudeau told reporters, indicating his plans to personally address the House of Commons about the controversy for the first time since it exploded. He called the incident a "horrendous violation" of the memory of the millions of people who died in the Holocaust and said it was "deeply, deeply painful" for Jewish people, as well as members of the Polish, Roma, and LGBTQ2S+ communities who were also "targeted by the Nazi genocide", CTV News reported. "Every year, there are fewer and fewer Holocaust survivors to share firsthand the horrors of what they experienced. And it is therefore incumbent upon us all to ensure that no one ever forgets what happened," Trudeau added before entering the chamber to offer similar remarks. It was the first time the prime minister personally addressed the House of Commons about the controversy since it exploded. Facing a series of pointed questions about the internationally condemned situation that transpired during Zelenskyy's address last Friday, Trudeau noted the Speaker was "solely responsible" for Hunka's recognition. Still, Trudeau said Canada is "deeply sorry" for the position this has put Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian delegation in, calling it "extremely troubling" that such an egregious error, and the images captured of the moment, are being used as propaganda by Russia and its supporters to amplify false narratives about what Ukraine is fighting for. "Friday's joint session was about what Canada stands for, about our steadfast support of Ukraine's fight against Putin's brutality, lies and violence. It was a moment to celebrate and acknowledge the sacrifices of Ukrainians as they fight for their democracy, their freedom, their language and culture, and for peace. This is the side Canada was on in WW II, and this is the side we are on today," said the prime minister. While Rota's resignation calmed some of the initial acrimony, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh were among those pushing for Trudeau to heed requests from Jewish advocacy groups for a personal apology, noting that it wasn't enough for the Canadians who were feeling the shame the mistake had caused. Poilievre said inviting Hunka to attend Zelenskyy's historic address to Parliament is the "biggest single diplomatic embarrassment" in the country's history. Poilievre blamed Trudeau for the mishap despite Rota's assertion that he alone was responsible for inviting the incident. In the question period, Singh questioned why it took Trudeau so long to say sorry, while Poilievre said Trudeau's apology on behalf of the country didn't go far enough. The Conservative leader repeatedly called on the prime minister to take personal responsibility for his "personal failure" to vet all attendees, despite the Speaker's guest list not being shared with the Prime Minister's Office in advance, per parliamentary protocol. For events such as parliamentary addresses, each party in the House is granted a certain allotment of invitations and while a central protocol office compiles those submissions to send the invites, the lists are not shared between parties but are shared with corporate security to facilitate accreditation, according to the Speaker's office. "When foreign heads of state come here they expect that they will be protected, not only against security threats, but against massive global scale embarrassments and shames like the one he allowed to unfold before Canadians. So, will the prime minister commit to personally calling President Zelenskyy?" Poilievre asked. While the prime minister did not directly address this question about calling Zelenskyy, his office told CTV News that apologies were made to the Ukrainians at the "ministerial level." At the moment, the prime minister instead clapped back, questioning why Poilievre has not apologised for a trio of his MPs meeting with far-right German politician Christine Anderson earlier this year. "If the leader of the Opposition wants the government to help him vet those his MPs meet with, we'd be more than happy to give him some better advice," Trudeau said. Bilateral relations between India and Canada came under severe strain following Trudeau's allegations of a "potential" involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia in June. Last week, India rejected the allegations as "absurd" and "motivated" and expelled a senior Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move to Ottawa's expulsion of an Indian official over the case. Months after Khalistani terrorist and Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar was shot dead in British Columbia, another Sikh separatist leader was allegedly warned by police about threats to his life, said an unverified report. Gurmeet Singh Toor belongs to the same gurdwara as Nijjar and was reportedly the first one to find Nijjar's lifeless body. Toor told Toronto-based CBC News that Surrey RCMP and the Integrated National Security Enforcement Team (INSET) came to his home and issued the warning at around 11:30 p.m. on Aug. 24. The document was titled "duty to warn" and was addressed to Gurmeet Singh Toor. He made it public via the Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) group. "Police have determined by way of one or more investigative avenues that your life may be in peril," the document reads. "At this time we are unable to provide you with specific details of the threat," it added. The threat came amid Toor's active campaign for the Khalistan referendum. He added that the Surrey RCMP asked about his activities but did not provide him with the details of the alleged threat. Toor told CBC News that he had since been worried for his safety, and has remained hyper-vigilant of his surroundings. Weeks after issuing this document, Trudeau alleged India of orchestrating Nijjar's death in the House of Commons, a charge which New Delhi called "absurd" and "motivated." Meanwhile, the World Sikh Organization (WSO) of Canada, a group that represents Khalistani interests, said Nijjar spoke of "threats to his life" before his alleged murder, and claimed he was being targeted by India's intelligence agencies. The WSO said "several other Canadian Sikhs are also understood to be under threat" and are on Indian "hit lists. There are also reports that Nijjar was in regular touch with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) and had met senior officials six days before he was killed in June this year. A report by CNN-News18 quoting Nijjar's 21-year-old son Balraj Singh said the slain Khalistani leader was also scheduled to meet them two days after he was killed. As Slovakia is gearing up for elections to elect its fifth prime minister, the West is keenly watching as it would have a crucial impact on Ukraine. Slovakia has been one of Kyivs staunchest allies since the Russian invasion. However, with Kremlin sympathizer Robert Fico's opposition party leading the polls, Ukraine would have to fight the battle against Russia without its help. During the invasion, Slovakia was the first country to send air defences to Ukraine. Slovakia shares border with the two countries and it has openly welcomed thousands of refugees from the war-hit Ukraine. If former Prime Minister Fico comes to power, it would definitely affect Slovakia's stance on Ukraine as he had openly stated his disapproval of helping Kyiv in its fight. The Parliamentary election is set to be held on Saturday. Fico has called on the Slovakian government to stop supplying weapons to Kyiv and he had clearly stated if he is elected to power, the country would "not send another round of ammunition." Fico had served as Slovakia's prime minister for more than a decade, first between 2006 and 2010 and then again from 2012 to 2018. After mass protests erupted following the killing of a journalist and his fiancee, questions were raised over his involvement and later he was forced to resign. Investigative journalist Jan Kuciak had reported on corruption among countrys elite, including those directly connected to Fico and his party SMER. In 2020, Fico's SMER party lost to center-right Ordinary People and Independent Personalities (OLaNO) party. However, OLaNO's leader Igor Matovic ended up disappointing people. Matovic, a self-made millionaire won the election on an anti-corruption campaign with the mission wipe out corruption in Slovakia. Later, Matovic suffered blows. He had to admit to plagiarizing his masters thesis and infighting was growing within the party. After a year of coming to power, he was forced to step down. During the Covid times, buying Russian vaccines had sparked a rebellion in his coalition government. It later paved way for the collapse of the government in December. Finance Minister Eduard Heger in Matovic's government was the caretaker prime minister but he too quit in May and was replaced by Ludovit Odor, a technocrat. With the infighting, failure of the government to take action against corruption and rebellion, SMER partys chance in the upcoming elections grew strong. Reportedly, SMER still enjoys support from its core voters. Slovakia has a complicated electoral system and fragmented political scene, with as many as 10 political groupings potentially capable of reaching the 5% threshold needed to enter the parliament, reported CNN. Even if Figo comes to power, he will need at least one coalition partner. He has still not ruled out working with Republika, an extremist far-right party which claims that the war in Ukraine is a consequence of NATOs expansion policy. It is said that the current Slovakias helping hand towards Ukraine is not agreed by many Slovaks giving an opportunity for SMER and Republika in the elections. Ukraine was delivered armoured vehicles, helicopters, howitzers and other equipment as well. Kolkata, Sep 28 (PTI) Eight chambers of Indo-Pacific countries on Thursday agreed to work together under a common platform to boost trade and commerce in the region which accounts for nearly USD 47 trillion in economic activities annually. The Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) said that a proposal for creating such an association was tabled and received a tremendous response at the Indo-Pacific Economic Conclave, as such a platform would benefit the development of regional trade and commerce. "India is taking a lead on several fronts in global economic affairs which is evident from the G20 presidency. We mooted a proposal for a common platform called the Association of Indo-Pacific Chambers of Commerce (AIPCC), and we received a proactive response," said BCCI director-general Subhodip Ghosh. Ghosh said that the AIPCC will be a non-political, non-governmental body. It will also be a forum that connects chambers across borders, creating a better environment for businesses and MSMEs, and driving prosperity and opportunity for all common stakeholders, the chamber stated. ASEAN-India Business Council, Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Nepal-India Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Thailand-India Business Council, The Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Indian Business Chamber in Vietnam, Indo-Australian Chamber of Commerce, and Japan External Trade Organisation were among the trade-related bodies present at the meeting, attended by officials from 11 countries. Meanwhile, BCCI president Subir Chakraborty said that the region accounts for more than 60 per cent of global GDP and almost 50 per cent of global merchandise trade. Speaking about the position paper released at the event, Ambarish Dasgupta of Intueri Consulting said that the Indo-Pacific region is one of the most vibrant and dynamic areas in the world, accounting for 50 per cent of global maritime trade and generating a staggering USD 47.93 trillion in economic activity. Shimla, Sep 28 (PTI) Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Thursday invited the Himachali diaspora in the UAE to invest in the state's green sector, tourism, green hydrogen, food processing, information and technology, and solar power. During a virtual interaction with Himachalis residing in the UAE, the Chief Minister emphasised on the crucial role that the diaspora plays in the state's progress and assured them of government support for their investment in these sectors, a statement issued here on Thursday said. Terming the Himachali community in the UAE as "ambassadors of the state's rich culture", he said Himachal Pradesh is their home and they can always reach out for help if they encounter any difficulty. "Development of the tourism sector is among the priority of the government, with Kangra district set to be developed as tourism capital of the state and for this purpose, infrastructure upgrades are already underway, including expansion of Kangra Airport, establishment of heliports in every district and improving road connectivity," he said. Sukhu said the state government is committed to making Himachal self-reliant in the next four years and one of the country's most prosperous states in the next 10 years. He said education and healthcare sectors are also undergoing transformation, with the introduction of robotic surgery in medical colleges and opening of Rajiv Gandhi Day-Boarding Schools in each of 68 assembly segments in a phased manner. Additionally, the government is providing a 50 per cent subsidy for setting up solar power projects and for the purchase of e-buses, e-trucks and e-taxis to create employment opportunities for the youth, the statement said. The Himachali community in the UAE, in collaboration with Team Ek Prayas, presented a cheque of Rs 11 lakh to the Chief Minister towards Aapada Rahat Kosh-2023. Sukhu also accepted an invitation from Himachalis in the UAE to visit Dubai in the near future. JAIPUR, India, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Amity University Rajasthan, a premier institute of higher education in India, is proud to announce that it has been granted accreditation by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) with an impressive score of 3.31 and the coveted A+ grade. This accreditation is a testament to the university's unwavering commitment to academic excellence, research, and innovation. The NAAC accreditation process is a rigorous and comprehensive assessment of an institution's overall quality and performance. Achieving an A+ grade underscores Amity University Rajasthan's dedication to providing best-in-class education and fostering an environment of continuous improvement. The accreditation process evaluates various aspects of an institution, including teaching and learning processes, infrastructure, research capabilities, faculty qualifications, student outcomes, innovation & research, placement, and much more. Amity University Rajasthan's success in achieving such a high score reflects its exceptional performance in these critical areas. Prof. (Dr.) Amit Jain, Hon'ble Vice-Chancellor, of Amity University Rajasthan, expressed immense pride and gratitude as the university has shown remarkable progress in the last 5 years to achieve this much-deserved A+ Grade, from NAAC. Prof. Jain stated "We are extremely glad to have received NAAC accreditation with an A+ grade. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to delivering high-quality education and upholding the highest standards of academic excellence. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the exceptional quality of our faculty, staff, students, teaching methodology, research labs, proactive industry integration, and societal connect as we strive for excellence in all we do." Amity University Rajasthan has been a frontrunner in providing a diverse range of programs across various disciplines, including engineering, management, law, liberal arts, and more. The university's state-of-the-art infrastructure, world-class faculty, and emphasis on research and innovation have contributed significantly to its outstanding performance in the accreditation process. The A+ grade and the notable score from NAAC boost the university's reputation and inspire confidence among students and parents seeking quality education. Amity University Rajasthan remains committed to its mission of nurturing talent, fostering creativity, and preparing students for a successful future. NAAC Accreditation signifies that the university stands among the best in the nation, delivering top-notch education, research, and holistic development opportunities to our students. About Amity University Rajasthan: Amity University, Rajasthan, is a clean green 152-acre picturesque campus amidst the oldest mountain ranges of the Aravali, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. courses across various disciplines. The university is a fully residential and hi-tech institution with air-conditioned Amphitheatre-style classrooms. The university has consistently been recognized and awarded by India Today, ASSOCHAM, Hindustan Times, Zee TV, etc. for its academics, placement, and industry interface. The university has recently been featured among the top universities in the world in THE IMPACT Rankings 2023. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2188318/4226086/AmityUniversityRajasthan_Logo.jpg (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PRNewswire and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR PWR New Delhi, Sep 28 (PTI) The Delhi government has decided to extend its existing excise policy by six months due to the time needed for coming up with a new liquor trade regime, officials said on Thursday. The policy has been extended till March 31, 2024 following the requisite approvals from the Delhi government and the lieutenant governor, a senior officer said. A proposal of the excise department to extend the policy, implemented on September 1 last year, was sent for the LG's nod after it was cleared by the government. The file was sent back to the government from the LG's office, marked as "seen", the officer added. A notification for the extension of the policy will be issued by the excise department on Friday. After the notification, the existing excise licences will be renewed for six months on payment of fees on a pro-rata basis, he said. The current excise policy was going to lapse on September 30, requiring either its extension or replacement with a new policy for regulatory necessities to operate retail and wholesale liquor trade in the national capital. Now that the policy has been extended, the entry of private players into retail liquor trade will remain blocked at least till the start of the next financial year (2024-25). By then, a new excise regime will possibly be announced, the officials said. A draft of a new policy for 2023-24 was prepared by the excise department, but it is yet to be vetted by the government, they added. The current policy was meant to be a stop-gap measure to prevent a regulatory vacuum due to the sudden scrapping of the new excise policy for 2021-22 by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government after LG V K Saxena recommended a CBI enquiry into alleged irregularities in its implementation. The new policy (2021-22), aimed at reforming the liquor trade in Delhi, was implemented on November 17, 2021 and it came to an end on August 31, 2022. Under the policy, the Delhi government quit retail liquor sale, allowing private parties to run liquor stores across the city under a liberal excise regime. Experts in the liquor trade said Delhi needs regulatory stability for a smooth liquor business and better consumer experience. The current excise policy was earlier extended by six months by the government after March 31. "The existing policy is being extended repeatedly just to keep the business going. It is not a planned excise policy design to work for all stakeholders. What the industry needs more than anything else is regulatory stability," said Vinod Giri, director general of the Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverages Companies. In the absence of a long-term excise policy, companies cannot make long-term plans. They need clarity on the policy front over the next year or two at least in order to invest and execute in the state, Giri said. "In recent times, we have seen frequent major changes in the excise policy, which have had an unsettling effect. Since Delhi's operating margins anyway are not great, companies with pan-India footprint have the option of prioritising other markets for supplies if faced with such an uncertain regulatory framework," he added. Giri said he expects a proper excise policy announcement by the government in the next fiscal. Delhi is far too important a market to be left to the twists and turns of an uncertain short-term excise regulation, he added. If you're looking for a multi-bagger, there's a few things to keep an eye out for. Ideally, a business will show two trends; firstly a growing return on capital employed (ROCE) and secondly, an increasing amount of capital employed. If you see this, it typically means it's a company with a great business model and plenty of profitable reinvestment opportunities. So when we looked at Armstrong World Industries (NYSE:AWI) and its trend of ROCE, we really liked what we saw. Return On Capital Employed (ROCE): What Is It? If you haven't worked with ROCE before, it measures the 'return' (pre-tax profit) a company generates from capital employed in its business. The formula for this calculation on Armstrong World Industries is: Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) (Total Assets - Current Liabilities) 0.15 = US$234m (US$1.7b - US$177m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to June 2023). Therefore, Armstrong World Industries has an ROCE of 15%. By itself that's a normal return on capital and it's in line with the industry's average returns of 15%. See our latest analysis for Armstrong World Industries roce Above you can see how the current ROCE for Armstrong World Industries compares to its prior returns on capital, but there's only so much you can tell from the past. If you'd like, you can check out the forecasts from the analysts covering Armstrong World Industries here for free. How Are Returns Trending? Armstrong World Industries' ROCE growth is quite impressive. The figures show that over the last five years, ROCE has grown 27% whilst employing roughly the same amount of capital. So our take on this is that the business has increased efficiencies to generate these higher returns, all the while not needing to make any additional investments. It's worth looking deeper into this though because while it's great that the business is more efficient, it might also mean that going forward the areas to invest internally for the organic growth are lacking. Story continues What We Can Learn From Armstrong World Industries' ROCE To sum it up, Armstrong World Industries is collecting higher returns from the same amount of capital, and that's impressive. Considering the stock has delivered 7.4% to its stockholders over the last five years, it may be fair to think that investors aren't fully aware of the promising trends yet. So exploring more about this stock could uncover a good opportunity, if the valuation and other metrics stack up. One more thing to note, we've identified 1 warning sign with Armstrong World Industries and understanding this should be part of your investment process. While Armstrong World Industries 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. Colombo, Sep 28 (PTI) With the IMF saying that Sri Lanka's full economic recovery is not yet assured, the government on Thursday said it will focus on the recommendations of the global lender and will continue discussions with it to reach a staff-level agreement for the second tranche of the bailout package. In March this year, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved a 48-month, USD 2.9 billion extended arrangement under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) to support Sri Lankas economic policies and reforms. We have to take note of points made on tax administration, granting of tax relief and eliminating tax evasion, said State Minister of Finance, Ranjith Siyambalapitiya. We are working with a contracted economy and a population hit by economic hardships," Siyambalapitiya said. Sri Lanka was hit by its worst economic crisis in history when its foreign exchange reserves fell to a critical low and the public came out on the streets to protest the shortage of fuel, fertilisers and essential commodities. On Wednesday, it emerged that Lanka's second tranche of the bailout package will likely be delayed given the inconclusive nature of the cash-strapped nation's external debt restructuring. The debt-ridden nation was banking on the release of the second tranche of around USD 330 million at the end of the review as stated by Siyambalapitiya last week. However, the IMF in the review said more discussions were needed to reach the next staff-level agreement on the external debt restructuring. The Washington-based global lender, while noting Sri Lankas commendable progress in implementing difficult reforms, said "the full recovery of the economy was not yet assured." It stressed the need to strengthen tax administration, remove tax exemptions, and actively eliminate tax evasion. The IMF had originally set a September deadline for Sri Lanka to restructure its external debt. The completion of negotiations with external creditors was to culminate with the first review. The government in June introduced its plan for domestic debt restructuring after which it faced objections from the political and trade unions over its impact on the pension funds. Domestic debt restructuring (DDR) is a key condition in the IMF programme, through which a bailout package was approved for Sri Lanka. Dehradun, Sep 28 (PTI) Agreements for investments worth Rs 3,000 crore in Uttarakhand were signed on Thursday, the third day of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's current tour of the UK to invite investors. An MoU for investment worth Rs 2,000 crore was signed with Aager Technology and another for investment worth Rs 1,000 crore with Fira Barcelona, an official release here said. Aager Technology will invest in Lithium battery plants in the state. Fira Barcelona is an European group engaged in event management with expertise in organising world-class business fairs. Two MoUs were also signed with Ease My Trip to promote Uttarakhand internationally as a tourist destination. The chief minister also met around 250 entrepreneurs in Birmingham and extended an invitation to them to participate in the forthcoming Global Investors Summit to be held in Uttarakhand in December. Shimla, Sep 28 (PTI) The Centre should immediately release Rs 1,500-2,000 crore as relief as per the norms to speed up relief and restoration work in disaster-hit Himachal Pradesh, chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said here on Thursday. Talking to the media persons here, he said that this is the legitimate claim of the state which suffered losses of Rs 12,000 crore and added that the issue was raised with the Home Minister during the recent Regional Interstate Council meet at Amritsar. However, the state government is committed to giving special packages to disaster-hit people on its own in spite of the financial crunch, he said and indicated a cut in the budget allocation to manage resources. Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha on Wednesday (September 20) adopted a resolution by voice vote, urging the union government to declare the recent calamity in the state as a national disaster and declaration of special relief package of Rs 12,000 crore for the state. The issue regarding the problem of infiltration of people of Jammu and Kashmir from Churah in Chamba district and people of Leh from Sarchu, who are grabbing lands in Himachal for past many years, was also raised with Lt Governors of twin Union Territories, who agreed for mapping by Survey of India and resolving the issue, he said. Issues relating to handing over of Shanan power project in Jogindernagar (Mandi) to Himachal after the expiry of lease in March 2024 were also raised with Union Home Minister and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Maan, he said. Demand for payment of arrears worth Rs 4,000 crore on account of 7.19 per cent share in Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) and permanent representative of Himachal in BBMB on the analogy of Punjab and Haryana was also raised. Lahore, Sep 28 (PTI) Bhagat Singh's 116th birth anniversary was celebrated on Thursday by a non-profit foundation here, which demanded Pakistan's highest gallantry award for the pre-partition era revolutionary leader. The Bhagat Singh Memorial Foundation observed the freedom fighter's birth anniversary on the premises of the Lahore High Court (LHC), and a cake-cutting event was held on the court's lawn. The foundation's members and other lawyers participated in the ceremony. Speaking on the occasion, Bhagat Singh Memorial Foundation Pakistan Head, Advocate Imtiaz Rashid Qureshi, paid rich tributes to the independence hero who was hanged along with his comrades Raj Guru and Sukh Dev by the British in 1931. The foundation demanded the country's highest gallantry award for Singh. It also demanded an apology from British King Charles III for the judicial murder of the three freedom fighters and compensation to their families. It also demanded the Pakistani government to name Lahore's Shadman Chowk after Bhagat Singh, as the trio was executed there. The foundation said that the three revolutionaries and their act of chivalry should also be made part of the school syllabus. Bhagat Singh was executed by the British in 1931 at the age of 23. His courage and spirit of sacrifice in the face of likely death and his idealism made him one of the most popular icons of the freedom movement. Seoul, Sep 28 (AP) Video appears to show American solider who crossed into North Korea arriving back in the US. The American soldier who sprinted into North Korea across the heavily fortified border between the Koreas two months ago arrived back in the US early Thursday, local affiliate video appeared to show. Pvt. Travis King's release was secured with the help of ally Sweden and rival China, the White House said Wednesday. North Korea said it would expel King earlier the same day. King appeared to walk off a plane in San Antonio, Texas. Dressed in what seemed to be civilian clothes, he spoke briefly with people waiting on the tarmac and shook hands with one before being led into a building. (AP) FZH Lahore, Sep 28 (PTI) Pakistan's anti-graft body is reopening at least four corruption cases against former prime minister Nawaz Sharif as he is scheduled to return to the country next month, ending four years of self-exile in the United Kingdom, an official said Thursday. The 73-year-old Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo is scheduled to return to Pakistan from London on October 21 to lead the party's election campaign. Nawaz left the country in November 2019 on medical grounds after the Lahore High Court granted him bail for four weeks. He was serving a seven-year imprisonment in the Al-Azizia Mills corruption case at Kot Lakhpat Jail Lahore. On arrival in Lahore, his party says he will address a rally at Minar-i-Pakistan where he will give a road map to steer the country out of the economic crisis, governance problems and other issues the country is facing today. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in the light of a Supreme Court ruling which struck down amendments made to the accountability laws by the previous Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government led by Nawaz's younger brother Shehbaz Sharif, is reopening the four pending probes against Nawaz. The cases are related to illegal plots and land allotment, dubious transfer of shares of his sugar mills and Toshakhana (national treasury gifts). "Nawaz Sharif being chief minister of Punjab province in 1986 had allotted plots in Lahore to several people by misusing his authority. He is accused of illegal construction of several kilometres of road to his house in Jati Umra Raiwind, Lahore, in 1998 when he was prime minister in violation of rules. "The third case is related to the transfer of shares in illegal manners in the Chaudhry Sugar Mills case which is owned by Nawaz Sharif and his family members. In this case, his daughter Maryam Nawaz is also accused of being a major beneficiary," an official privy to the development told PTI on Thursday. The fourth is related to the Toshakhana case in which he is accused of taking luxurious vehicles from the national treasury in violation of rules, he said. Besides these cases, Nawaz will have to face the case related to his conviction. Meanwhile, Nawaz's close aide and senior PML-N leader Mian Javed Latif said the party has stopped demanding accountability of former army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa and former ISI head Gen Faiz Hameed" for conspiring against Nawaz to topple his government in 2017. The PML-N doesn't want accountability of Gen Bajwa and Gen Hameed but only those characters and facilitators involved in May 9 events and mutiny against the head (Army Chief Gen Asim Munir) of the institution, he said. Latif was referring to attacks on military installations following the arrest of Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan in May. On September 18, Nawaz demanded "strict accountability" of Gen Bajwa, Gen Hameed and chief justices Asif Khosa and Saqib Nisar while addressing the partys ticket holders in Lahore via video link from London. He had hinted at trying them under treason charges if his party returned to power in the upcoming elections, scheduled early next year. Nawaz's demand for strict accountability left many in the party in a precarious position as the leaders became wary of a possible backlash from the military establishment if he continued with such statements. Sources told PTI that Nawaz backtracked from demanding accountability of army generals after a "strong message" was conveyed to him through his younger brother Shehbaz Sharif. London, Sep 28 (PTI) British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's wife Akshata Murty has decided to liquidate her investment company Catamaran Ventures UK Ltd, according to official company filings with the UK's Companies House this week. The 43-year-old businesswoman had incorporated the venture in 2013 with her husband as one of the directors, before he resigned in 2015. According to the latest financial statement for the year ended December 2022 available for the company on Wednesday, Murty as the only director of the firm has now decided to wind down her firm as a going concern. "During the year, the directors have decided to liquidate the Company, notes the Companies House filing statement. "Accordingly, the financial statements have been prepared on a basis other than going concern and no adjustments were necessary in these financial statements to reduce assets to their realisable values or to provide for liabilities arising from that decision, it reads. The value of the company's investments for the period was stated at just over GBP 3.8 million, up from just over GBP 3.5 million in 2021 and the funds becoming due to Murty amounted to just over GBP 4.6 million. Catamaran Ventures UK Ltd has been operating as an investment vehicle for funds from her shares in Infosys, the Indian software giant co-founded by her father N.R. Narayana Murthy. However, the ventures it has invested in have not had the best run. According to an analysis by The Times newspaper, education start-up Mrs Wordsmith backed by Catamaran closed less than six months after receiving GBP 650,000 from the UK government's pandemic support scheme called Future Fund. The New Craftsmen, a Catamaran-backed furniture company which closed in November 2022, also benefited from the fund. And, Digme Fitness, a boutique London fitness chain of which Murty was a director, failed in 2021. Study Hall, an education technology business in which Catamaran has a stake, was given a government grant of GBP 349,976 via state body Innovate UK last year, prompting questions from the Opposition Labour Party benches. Murty's investments outside Catamaran also came under the spotlight this year when it emerged she had shares in Koru Kids one of six childminder agencies in England that stood to benefit from a new Budget scheme announced by the Sunak-led government. It led to a declaration of interest inquiry by the UK parliamentary watchdog, which concluded last month that Sunaks failure to reference his wifes shares in Koru Kids arose out of confusion and was accordingly inadvertent. "I apologise for these inadvertent errors and confirm acceptance of your proposal for rectification, Sunak wrote in a letter to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards, Daniel Greenberg. Beijing, Sep 28 (PTI) China's defence ministry on Thursday dismissed arch-rival Taiwan launching its first homegrown submarine, saying it is nothing but "a broom attempting to hold back the tide of national reunification." China's defence ministry spokesman Senior Colonel Wu Qian made the remarks at a news conference in response to the launch of Taiwan's submarine as the self-ruled island bolsters its defences against a possible Chinese attack. China regards Taiwan as a renegade province that must be reunified with the mainland, even by force. Beijing has warned against Taiwan formally declaring independence and any foreign support. China has increasingly sought to put pressure on the island with its provocative military drills in the Taiwan Strait, including several conducted this month around the island. Earlier on Thursday, Taiwan unveiled its what it called first homegrown submarine. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen, who initiated the programme when she took office in 2016, launched the first of eight new submarines on Thursday a breakthrough for diplomatically isolated Taipei. But China's defence ministry spokesman Wu said that, no matter how many weapons Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party authorities build or buy, they will not be able to stop the general trend of national reunification or shake the staunch determination, strong will and strong capabilities of People's Liberation Army to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity. It is nothing but "a broom attempting to hold back the tide of national reunification," Wu was quoted as saying by state-run China Military News. Mao Ning, China's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, also responded to the newly launched submarine. "Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinese territory, and the reunification of the two sides of the Taiwan Strait is bound to be realised," she asserted. The Taipei Times, a leading English-language newspaper in Taiwan, in an editorial, described the launch of the homegrown submarine as a "major breakthrough in upgrading the nations self-defence capabilities, and would make it more difficult for China to blockade Taiwan." Facing Beijings escalating military threats and ambitions of expanding across the Taiwan Strait, a domestically developed submarine was first proposed in the 1990s under then-president Lee Teng-hui. The Indigenous Defence Submarine programme was formally initiated in 2016 with the aim of creating a fleet of eight domestically developed submarines. "The vessels are to complement two Dutch-made submarines Taiwan acquired in the 1980s. They are mainly to thwart the Chinese Peoples Liberation Armys (PLA) efforts to encircle Taiwan during an invasion or blockade, the convener of the IDS programme, Admiral Huang Shu-kuang has said. "If China posted ships in the Pacific before attacking, the submarines would be Taiwans "lifeline," keeping ports along the east coast open for supplies and international aid," the editorial said. Washington, Sep 28 (PTI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Antony Blinken here on Thursday, amid the diplomatic rumpus between India and Canada stirred over the killing of a Khalistani separatist. Although officials from both sides are tightlipped about the agenda of the meeting, the latest diplomatic crisis between two of Americas friends, its traditional ally Canada and India, is expected to come up prominently during the talks. I dont want to preview the conversations he (Blinken) will have in that meeting (with Jaishankar) , but as weve made clear, weve raised this; we have engaged with our Indian counterparts on this and encouraged them to cooperate with the Canadian investigation, and we continue to encourage them to cooperate, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters. He was responding to questions about the meeting between Jaishankar and Blinken at the Foggy Bottom headquarters of the State Department here on Thursday afternoon (which is about mid-night local India time). The two leaders are expected to pose for pictures ahead of the meeting and are not expected to take any questions from the media. While the meeting between the two top diplomats was scheduled much before the Canadian crisis broke out, the US has been urging India to cooperate in the Canadian investigation into the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia early this year. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has alleged that the Indian government was behind the killing of Nijjar, 45, outside a gurdwara in Surrey in British Columbia on June 18. India had designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020. India has rejected the allegations as "absurd" and "motivated" and expelled a senior Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move to Ottawa's expulsion of an Indian official. India has also asked Canada to crack down on terrorists and anti-India elements operating from its soil and suspended visa services for Canadians. Miller said that the issue did not come up for discussion in New York during the Quad ministerial that involved foreign ministers of the US, India, Japan and Australia. It was a meeting of a number of countries and it did not come up in that meeting. But we have engaged with our Indian counterparts on this issue and urged them to fully cooperate with the Canadian investigation, the State Department spokesperson said. Jaishankar arrived in the American capital from New York after attending the annual General Assembly meetings of the United Nations on Tuesday. In addition to his meeting with Blinken, the external affairs minister is expected to have a series of meetings with senior officials of the Biden administration, review the progress made between the two countries after the historic State Visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June and talk about other regional and global issues. The minister is also expected to engage with the diaspora, think-tank community and interact with leaders from the corporate sector. (This story has not been edited by THE WEEK and is auto-generated from PTI) Australian Vanadium (ASX:AVL) Full Year 2023 Results Key Financial Results Net loss: AU$7.24m (loss widened by 44% from FY 2022). AU$0.002 loss per share (further deteriorated from AU$0.001 loss in FY 2022). All figures shown in the chart above are for the trailing 12 month (TTM) period Australian Vanadium shares are up 3.7% from a week ago. Risk Analysis What about risks? Every company has them, and we've spotted 5 warning signs for Australian Vanadium (of which 3 are potentially serious!) you should know about. 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. Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Sep 28 (PTI) The annual convention of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) will be held here in Maharashtra from Friday during which there will be a discussion on the 'Inbound Tourism and Emerging Sustainable Trends', the organisers said. On the second day of the event, there will be a discussion on the inbound tourism and synergy between hotels and tour operators, IATO Chairman Rajiv Mehra said at a press conference here on Wednesday. On the third day, there will be a session on 'Exploring Maharashtra - new dimensions and opportunities', he added. District guardian minister Sandipan Bhumre, who was present at the press conference, expressed the need for better air connectivity of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar with different cities to increase tourist footfall here. Leader of Opposition in the state legislative council Ambadas Danve said, "We have taken an initiative to bring this event to a two-tier city like Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. This will help in boosting the economy of our city as tour operators will get a first hand experience of the beauty of monuments here." Kolkata, Sep 28 (PTI) Thousands of MGNREGA job card holders from West Bengal arrived here on Thursday on their way to New Delhi to participate in TMC's scheduled protest programme next week against the alleged withholding of funds by the Centre. According to the TMC, around 4,000 MGNREGA workers will leave for New Delhi on a special train on September 30 booked by the party. "The MGNREGA beneficiaries have come from different districts - via road and train. The party has arranged their stay at the Netaji Indoor Stadium in Kolkata. Around 4,000 of them will travel to New Delhi on a special train on September 30 booked by the party. We have also made arrangements for their stay in Delhi," a party leader said. Abhishek Banerjee, the party's national general secretary, TMC MPs, MLAs and leaders from the districts will pay their respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat in the national capital on October 2 on his birth anniversary. Chief Minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, who was supposed to attend the programme in New Delhi, might not go there as she was advised ten days of rest by doctors after she suffered an injury on her left knee during a recent trip to Spain and Dubai. A TMC delegation will meet Union Rural Development Minister Giriraj Singh on October 3 and place before him the issue of "non-release of dues" under the MGNREGA. Reacting to MGNREGA beneficiaries arriving in Kolkata before they visit New Delhi, BJP state spokesperson Samik Bhattacharya, said the TMC is trying to gain political mileage by misleading poor people. "The 'funds' have been halted as the state has stopped submitting utilisation certificates. Once they submit the previous certificates; the state will again start getting 'funds'. The TMC is involved in corruption with MGNREGA funds, which is why they are misleading poor people to divert attention," he said. The Trinamool Congress claims to have sent more than 50 lakh letters from people denied MGNREGA benefits in West Bengal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of the party's protests in New Delhi next month, party officials said. The party has accused the BJP-led NDA government of withholding Rs 15,000 crore of dues to Bengal under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and Gramin Awas Yojana. New Delhi, Sep 28 (PTI) The US Mission to India on Thursday surpassed its goal to process one million non-immigrant visa applications this year with Ambassador Eric Garcetti personally handing over the one millionth visa to a couple, who will be heading to the United States to attend their son's graduation at MIT. Dr Ranju Singh, senior consultant, Lady Hardinge College was elated at receiving an email from the US Embassy about hers being the one millionth visa this year. Her husband Puneet Dargan, was granted the next visa. The couple will be travelling to the US in May, 2024. Greeting the couple as "Mr and Mrs One million", Ambassador Garcetti enquired about their travel plans to the US and made suggestions about what not to miss in the country as a tourist. "I couldn't be happier today, happy for India, Indians and the United States. Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi and President (Joe) Biden had said lets do a better job in moving faster on the visas and so the Ministry of External Affairs here approved more bodies in places like Hyderabad...more people who can work on these visas, we changed our systems, we worked harder and smarter and we hit a million visa applications processed this year," the ambassador said. "Our partnership with India is one of the United States' most important bilateral relationships, and in fact one of the most important relationships in the world. The ties between our people are stronger than ever, and we will continue our record-setting volume of visa work in the coming months to give as many Indian applicants as possible the opportunity to travel to the United States and experience the US-India friendship firsthand," he added. The Mission has already surpassed the total number of cases processed in 2022 and is processing almost 20 per cent more applications than in pre-pandemic 2019. "We got an email after we had finished our visa interviews that we are supposed to collect our visas, we were told that we were the one millionth...the Ambassador meeting us in person was a great moment for us. We are looking forward to going to the US, we will be there at MIT to celebrate our son's proud day and then explore the country as tourists," Dr Singh told PTI. Dargan informed that their son is currently pursuing his Masters in Financial Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). "This will be our first trip to the US. We are really looking forward to it," he said. Last year over 1.2 million Indians visited the United States. Indians now represent over 10 per cent of all visa applicants worldwide, including 20 per cent of all student visa applicants and 65 per cent of all H&L-category (employment) visa applicants. According to a statement by the US Embassy here, recognising the continued high demand for US visas, the United States continues to invest heavily in our operations in India. "In the past year, the Mission has expanded its staffing to facilitate more visa processing than ever before. The Mission has made significant capital improvements to existing facilities, such as the US Consulate in Chennai, and has inaugurated a new Consulate building in Hyderabad. "The Mission has also implemented strategies to increase efficiency, extending interview waiver eligibility to new visa categories and utilising remote work to allow staff around the world to contribute to Indian visa processing. Early next year, the Mission plans to implement a pilot program that would allow domestic visa renewal for qualified H&L-category employment visa applicants," it said. Jaipur, Sep 28 (PTI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP president J P Nadda held night-long discussions with the party's Rajasthan leadership here on a range of issues about the upcoming assembly elections. The meeting began at a hotel late on Wednesday evening and continued till 2 am, party sources said. The discussions were held amid a buzz that two central ministers might be asked to contest the upcoming polls. The speculation follows the BJP's decision to name three Union ministers and four MPs in its second list of candidates for poll-bound Madhya Pradesh. Shah and Nadda arrived in Jaipur on a special plane on Wednesday evening and headed to a hotel near the airport where the core committee meeting started. Party sources said that Shah and Nadda first held a meeting with former chief minister Vasundhara Raje that lasted for around 15 minutes. It was followed by a meeting with senior leaders in which constituencies and the party's election strategy were discussed. Feedback on the four 'Parivartan Yatras' that the BJP held recently was also discussed. Union minister and the party's election in-charge for Rajasthan Pralhad Joshi, co-in-charge Nitin Patel, BJP's in-charge for Rajasthan Arun Singh, state unit president C P Joshi, Union Ministers Gajendra Singh, Arjun Meghwal, Kailash Chaudhary, leader of opposition in Assembly Rajendra Rathore, deputy leader of opposition Satish Poonia and other leaders were present at the meeting, the sources said. The meeting continued for around three hours. Poonia and MP Rajyavardhan Rathore were the first to leave the venue after the first round. Nadda and Shah held the next round of meeting with the BJP's national general secretary (organisation) B L Santosh, Union minister Pralhad Joshi, Nitin Patel, Arun Singh, Kuldeep Vishnoi and Vijaya Rahatkar, among others, the party sources said. "The leaders held discussions on the assembly constituencies and brainstormed on ways to win the maximum number of seats in Mewar, Vagad, Shekhawati, Hadauti and Marwar regions and in eastern Rajasthan in the assembly and Lok Sabha elections," a source said. "In the meeting, a clear message was sent out that the party organisation is supreme and all have to work together to ensure victory of the party in the elections." Some leaders said that ticket distribution and other poll-related issues were discussed in the meeting. Sources in the BJP's Rajasthan unit said Union Jal Shakti minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal may be fielded in the assembly polls, along with some other MPs. However, the party leaders who came out of the hotel refrained from sharing details of the meeting with the media. Convener of the election management committee Narayan Panchariya said the party's authorised person will share details of the meeting with the media. Nadda and Shah will meet local RSS leaders on Thursday morning, party sources said. There is speculation that senior RSS pracharak Prakash Chand may be given certain responsibilities in the upcoming Assembly election. New Delhi, Sep 28 (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid tributes to singing legend Lata Mangeshkar on her 94th birth anniversary. "Remembering Lata Didi on her birth anniversary. Her contribution to Indian music spans decades, creating an everlasting impact. Her soulful renditions evoked deep emotions and will forever hold a special place in our culture," Modi posted on X. Mangeshkar, revered and adulated by fans and connoisseurs alike for her talent and contribution, ruled Hindi film music for close to six decades since her rise in the late 1940s. New Delhi, Sep 28 (PTI) The Congress on Thursday hit out at the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab over the arrest of its MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira in connection with a 2015 drugs case, saying this was proof of "politics of revenge" and an attempt to suppress the voice of the opposition by the state dispensation. The Congress and the AAP are part of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) but have been at loggerheads with each other over various issues in Delhi and Punjab where the Arvind Kejriwal-led party is in power. Khaira was arrested by the Punjab Police in connection with a 2015 drugs case on Thursday morning, official sources said. A team led by Superintendent of Police Manjeet Singh raided the Chandigarh residence of Khaira around 6 am. The MLA's son went live on Facebook showing that a team of Punjab Police has reached their residence to apprehend Khaira. In the video, Khaira could be seen arguing with the police team and asking them to show him the arrest warrant. In a post on X, Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate said, "Kisan Congress President Sukhpal Khaira ji's arrest is proof of the politics of revenge of the Punjab government. This step of the Aam Aadmi Party government is an attempt to suppress the voice of the opposition. This is completely wrong." "We are all with Sukhpal ji," she said. In a post in Hindi on X, the Congress said, "All India Kisan Congress chairman Sukhpal Khaira Ji's arrest is a proof of abuse of power and retaliation. The entire Congress family stands with him against this petty conspiracy to suppress his loud voice against injustice." "We are not ready to bow down, not ready to stop. We will fight and win," the party said. The Punjab Congress also hit out at the AAP government, accusing it of indulging in political vendetta. Congress state unit chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring and Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa strongly condemned the arrest of Khaira. The ruling Aam Aadmi Party, however, rejected the allegation and asserted that the action against the Bholath MLA was taken as per law. Warring visited the residence of Khaira after his arrest and met his son Mehtab Khaira and other family members. He said they stand by the Bholath MLA. The Punjab Congress chief questioned the police action, asking what kind of probe was conducted by the Punjab Police which led to Khaira's arrest after eight years. "It shows that 'jungle raj' is prevailing in the state," Warring said and questioned the absence of Chandigarh Police during the Punjab Police action. In a post on X, Warring said, "The recent arrest of MLA Sukhpal Khaira ji smacks of political vendetta. It is an attempt to intimidate the opposition and is a ploy of the AAP government in Punjab to distract (people) from core issues. We stand strongly with Sukhpal Khaira and will take this fight to its logical conclusion." Bajwa said, "The arrest of senior Congress leader Sukhpal Khaira is extremely deplorable. The AAP government in Punjab has stooped to an all-time low and resorted to vendetta politics. Sukhpal Singh Khaira has been outspoken and raised his voice against the wrongdoings and irregularities committed by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's government." "The Punjab Congress under the ambit of law will leave no stone unturned to get him released," he added. New Delhi, Sep 28 (PTI) More than 20 MLAs of Manipur, currently camping in Delhi, have urged the Centre to take action against those behind the kidnapping and killing of two youths in the restive state. The legislators have also urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to ensure that the CBI probe is expedited. "Most Legislators present in Delhi have already asked central government to deliver justice at the earliest. Let us ensure justice is given in the next few days by arresting the culprits involved," one of the MLAs Rajkumar Imo Singh wrote on X. He urged people in Manipur not to indulge in violence and said all forms of agitation should be done peacefully. "Let us ensure justice is given to the murdered students at the earliest," he said. Singh said if the CBI is not able to deliver justice within the next few days, "let us sit down here in Delhi along with our people to take a new course of action". "But let us also ensure that our common cause to save indigenous people is not diverted, our common cause to ensure that illegal migrants are all detected, action against insurgent groups breaking ground rules are taken up, border fencing is completed," he said. The BJP MLA said everyone should stand united in one voice. "If we are disjointed at this point of time, people seeking new pastures will be smiling and laughing at us making us all come up against each other. Let us all Stand Together for Manipur," he appealed. Singh also strongly condemned the alleged "act of barbarism by the armed forces" and asked why they can't use water cannons and other forms to stop such agitation. "Armed Forces should be instructed to be more humane in dealing with such kinds of delicate situation. Those involved should be given punishment as per law," he said. Violent protests rocked Manipur's capital for two days since Tuesday as thousands of students protested the kidnapping and killing of two youths, pictures of whose bodies had gone viral. On Tuesday night, a clash occurred between RAF personnel and locals over the murder of the duo, prompting the law enforcers to lob tear gas shells and fire rubber bullets at the agitators and baton-charge them, leaving 45 of the protesters, mostly students, injured. On Wednesday, around 20 protesters were injured in similar clashes with security forces. More than 180 people have been killed and several hundred injured since ethnic violence broke out in Manipur on May 3, when a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts to protest against the majority Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status. Srinagar, Sep 28 (PTI) National Conference leader Omar Abdullah on Thursday said Canada should share the evidence about killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar with India to prove its allegations and enable New Delhi to take "corrective measures", if needed. Canada is alleging that India did some incident in that country. They should share the evidence with India, Abdullah told reporters here. He said Minister for External Affairs S Jaishankar has said India will take action if Ottawa shares its evidence with New Delhi. India has said the same thing at the UN as well. The foreign minister said if there is any evidence, share it. If there is a need for taking any corrective measures after that, India will do it. Only verbal claims would not work, the evidence should be shared with India, Abdullah, who was Minister of State for External Affairs in the Vajpayee-led government, said. On the friction in relations between India and Canada, the former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir said, "It was unfortunate". The two countries had good relations, be it in terms of trade or people to people contact. Our students would go there to study, he added. The ties between India and Canada came under severe strain following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's allegations of a "potential" involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Nijjar in June. India has rejected the allegations as "absurd" and "motivated" and expelled a senior Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move to Ottawa's expulsion of an Indian official over the case. New Delhi, Sep 28 (PTI) Two men were arrested here for allegedly extorting over Rs 10 lakh from a woman by threatening to upload her obscene photographs on social media, police said on Thursday. The accused were identified as Sourav (27), who works as a cash collection agent, and Maneesh (22), a hotel manager. The duo created a fake Instagram profile and befriended the girl. After gaining her trust, they got access to her obscene pictures. They then threatened to post those pictures on social media if she did not give them Rs 10.5 lakh, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Rohini district), Guriqbal Singh Sidhu said. "The accused received the money in his and his associate's bank accounts. An analysis of his phone revealed that he had hundreds of photographs in his mobile phone," the DCP said. The complainant said she had accepted a friend request from the duo's Instagram account around three years ago. Police said the accused had targeted other women too using the same technique. "Following the complaint, an FIR was registered under relevant sections of the IPC and Information Technology Act," said the DCP. Chennai, Sep 28 (PTI) The BJP, which was initially dazed over the AIADMKs decision to break up ties with it in Tamil Nadu, will discuss the issue and the other political developments at the partys core committee and executive committee meeting soon, a senior leader said on Thursday. Terming the Dravidian majors announcement to part ways with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance as "unfortunate", BJP national co-incharge of Tamil Nadu Dr Ponguleti Sudhakar Reddy said the matter will be discussed at the partys state core committee and executive committee meeting soon. "I cant officially comment on the alliance. The Central leadership is watching the development in Tamil Nadu and they will take a call," Reddy told PTI. He however, remained tight slipped when asked if the party leadership has sought a "status report" on the AIADMK parting ways with the BJP, from Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Another senior leader in the BJP indicated that only those senior leaders already in touch with the AIADMK may be asked for a report on ground reality and added that the decision on alliance will be made known only by the high command. "At present we are involved in observing the Seva Pakhwada fortnight from September 17 to October 2 (coinciding with the 73rd birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The meeting of the respective committees will be convened after October 2," Reddy, a former MLC, said. The AIADMK called off its ties with the BJP, and announced on Monday that it will lead a separate alliance for the 2024 Lok Sabha poll. The prestigious 13th Saudi Green Building Forum (SGBF) will take place in Riyadh from October 9-10, 2023, bringing together experts, investors, and innovators who are dedicated to driving sustainable development in Saudi Arabian cities. To be held under the patronage of Majed bin Abdullah Al Hogail, Minister of Municipal, Rural Affairs, and Housing, the leading initiative is hosted by the Ministry of Municipal, Rural Affairs, and Housing. Centred around the theme, "Localising Sustainable Development Goals, the forum aims at accelerating the construction industry's journey towards carbon neutrality while promoting sustainable practices in energy and water usage. During the two-day event, the SGBF will shed light on crucial sectors such as energy, water, green cities, partnerships, and technology. Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Saudi Vision 2030, the SGBF underscores the nation's commitment to sustainability and a diversified non-oil economy by integrating its objectives with the Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative both set to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, said a statement. Faisal Al-Fadhl, Secretary-General of the Saudi Green Building Forum, emphasised the importance of a comprehensive strategy tailored to Saudi Arabia's unique geographical landscape and rich Arab heritage. He advocated for synergistic collaborations between various sectors and municipalities in order to localize the Sustainable Development Goals, mitigate environmental risks, and foster sustainable growth, with green building practices at the centre of this vision. The forum's 13th edition will encourage key players in the construction industry to embrace gold-standard building approaches that prioritise human and environmental well-being. Additionally, it will utilise technology to enhance the connection between individuals and their surroundings, whether in buildings, communities, or cities. It serves as an unparalleled platform for industry leaders to share insights, discuss challenges and successes, and shape a unified vision for sustainable development in a post-Covid-19 world. Managed by Great Minds Event Management LLC, the 13th edition of the forum promises to be a landmark event. It will act as an integral gathering point for sustainability trailblazers in the region, including policymakers, construction thought leaders, and influential change agents in Saudi Arabia. TradeArabia News Service Melbourne, Victoria --News Direct-- Australian Vanadium Ltd Australian Vanadium Ltd (ASX:AVL, OTCQB:ATVVF) CEO Graham Arvidson speaks with Proactive soon after the company and Technology Metals Australia Ltd (ASX:TMT) struck a deal to merge, in an agreement valued at $217 million which will see AVL acquire 100% of the TMT shares on issue. The companies see the merger as a logical consolidation of two adjoining projects across the Gabanintha orebody. As a result, the merged entity will become the leading Australian vanadium developer with a world-class asset of scale in Western Australia, a tier-one mining jurisdiction. Arvidson said: We are pleased with the strong support shown by RCF and other investors for the placement. Following the announced merger with TMT earlier this week, receiving this support is a positive endorsement of AVLs strategy and team but also highlights the growing investor interest in the vanadium thematic which continues to benefit from the clean energy transition and ongoing electrification of energy supplies requiring storage solutions. The placement ensures that the combined group will be well-funded to progress its integration strategy between AVL and TMT as well as the go-forward development strategy, and we are excited by the future opportunities. Contact Details Proactive Investors Jonathan Jackson +61 413 713 744 jonathan@proactiveinvestors.com View source version on newsdirect.com: https://newsdirect.com/news/australian-vanadium-says-tmt-merger-unlocks-scale-and-funding-662816041 The CIA and associated US intelligence agencies are set to launch a new AI chatbot, modeled after systems like ChatGPT, to streamline their data analysis efforts. According to a report from Bloomberg on Tuesday, the chatbot will be trained on public datasets and provide sourced answers for verification. Randy Nixon, the Director of Open Source Enterprise at the CIA, expressed the challenges faced by the intelligence community. Weve transitioned from traditional media outlets to an expansive digital realm. Finding critical information is akin to finding needles in a needle field, said Nixon. The new AI tool aims to simplify this process, and it will soon be distributed among the US intelligence agencies. The AI tools features are expected to include data lookup, interactive queries, and efficient summarization of vast data troves. Our data collection capacities have vastly expanded. The tool will ensure the right information reaches the agents while also enabling functionalities like auto-summarization, Nixon explained. However, while the CIA remains tight-lipped about the foundational AI used for its chatbot, concerns arise about what constitutes public data and the potential privacy implications. Once operational, the chatbot will be available to the entire 18-agency US intelligence community, excluding lawmakers and the general public. Nixon has assured that the tool will adhere to US privacy regulations, but questions remain about the systems security and potential misuse of technically public data. Notably, past incidents have seen federal entities acquiring large data sets, such as mobile locations, through commercial avenues bypassing legal protocols. Chinas ambition to dominate the AI realm by 2030 might have influenced the USs decision to expedite the tools development. As a response to Chinas growing AI influence and considering the potential risks of AI, the Biden administration introduced the Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights, establishing core values. Moreover, the administration has earmarked $140 million for new AI research institutes and has been actively engaging with AI industry leaders to ensure ethical product development. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) In startling comments, Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russias security council and former Russian president, stated that Russia might be pushed into a direct conflict with NATO, hinting at the possibility of a third world war. It appears Russia is cornered with diminishing alternatives other than to engage in a ground confrontation with NATO, Medvedev said in a public statement. He further compared the 74-year-old NATO alliance to Hitlers Axis, calling it an overtly fascist bloc but with a more extensive reach. Drawing attention to a recent incident in the Canadian Parliament, Medvedev criticized the applauding of Yaroslav Hunka, 98, a former member of the Waffen-SS Galicia Division during World War II. Hunka had been introduced and praised during Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskys visit last Friday. In his speech to Canadas House of Commons, Speaker Anthony Rota had introduced Hunka as a World War II veteran who fought for Ukrainian independence against the Russians and labeled him a hero. Following a public outcry, Rota expressed regret for his actions and resigned. No one, including my fellow parliamentarians or the Ukrainian delegation, was privy to my plans or my speech, Rota mentioned in a formal statement. Drawing parallels between past wars and the present situation, Medvedev, who served as the Russian president from 2008 to 2012 and was also its longest-serving prime minister, underscored the dire ramifications of such a conflict, hinting that it could surpass the devastation of World War II. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Iran claimed on Wednesday that it successfully launched an imaging satellite into space, a move that could further ratchet up tensions with Western nations that fear its space technology could be used to develop nuclear weapons. Irans Communication Minister Isa Zarepour said the Noor-3 satellite had been put in an orbit 450 kilometers (280 miles) above the Earths surface, the state-run IRNA news agency reported. It was not clear when exactly the launch took place. There was no immediate acknowledgment from Western officials of the launch or of the satellite being put into orbit. The U.S. military did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Iran has had a series of failed launches in recent years. The most recent launch was carried out by Irans paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, which has had more success. Gen. Hossein Salami, the top commander of the Guard, told state TV that the launch had been a victory and that the satellite will collect data and images. Authorities released footage of a rocket taking off from a mobile launcher without saying where the launch occurred. Details in the video corresponded with a Guard base near Shahroud, some 330 kilometers (205 miles) northeast of the capital, Tehran. The base is in Semnan province, which hosts the Imam Khomeini Spaceport from which Irans civilian space program operates. The Guard operates its own space program and military infrastructure parallel to Irans regular armed forces and answers only to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. It launched its first satellite into space in April 2020. But the head of the U.S. Space Command later dismissed it as a tumbling webcam in space that would not provide vital intelligence. Western sanctions bar Iran from importing advanced spying technology. The United States has alleged that Irans satellite launches defy a U.N. Security Council resolution and has called on Tehran to undertake no activity related to ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear weapons. The U.S. intelligence communitys 2022 threat assessment claims the development of satellite launch vehicles shortens the timeline for Iran to develop an intercontinental ballistic missile because it uses similar technology. Iran has always denied seeking nuclear weapons, and says its space program, like its nuclear activities, is for purely civilian purposes. U.S. intelligence agencies and the International Atomic Energy Agency say Iran abandoned an organized military nuclear program in 2003. Over the past decade, Iran has sent several short-lived satellites into orbit and in 2013 launched a monkey into space. The program has seen recent troubles, however. There have been five failed launches in a row for the Simorgh program, another satellite-carrying rocket. A fire at the Imam Khomeini Spaceport in February 2019 killed three researchers, authorities said at the time. A launchpad rocket explosion later that year drew the attention of then-President Donald Trump, who taunted Iran with a tweet showing what appeared to be a U.S. surveillance photo of the site. Tensions are already high with Western nations over Irans nuclear program, which has steadily advanced since Trump five years ago withdrew the U.S. from the 2015 nuclear agreement with world powers and restored crippling sanctions on Iran. Efforts to revive the agreement reached an impasse more than a year ago. Since then, the IAEA has said Iran has enough uranium enriched to near-weapons grade levels to build several nuclear weapons if it chooses to do so. Iran is also building a new underground nuclear facility that would likely be impervious to U.S. or Israeli airstrikes. Both countries have said they would take military action if necessary to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. Iran has expressed willingness to return to the 2015 nuclear deal, but says the U.S. should first ease the sanctions. (AP) While former President Donald Trump remains the frontrunner in the Republican presidential primary, recent polling suggests his hold on early states could be weakening. A CBS News/YouGov survey conducted between September 15-24 in Iowa and New Hampshire indicates a shift in voter sentiment. In Iowa, only 20% of Republican voters are solely considering Trump, with a significant 48% deliberating between him and other contenders. Notably, 31% state outright that they wouldnt consider voting for Trump. This means an overwhelming 79% of respondents are either undecided or leaning towards non-Trump candidates. The pattern is echoed in New Hampshire: 23% are committed to Trump, 43% are weighing their options, and 34% are solely considering alternative candidates. However, Trumps overall popularity remains evident. If the primaries were held today, 51% of Iowan Republicans would back him. His closest competitors, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, garnered 21% and 8% respectively. In New Hampshire, Trump maintains a more substantial lead with 50% support, DeSantis at 13%, and Haley at 11%. Underdogs Vivek Ramaswamy and Chris Christie each secured 8%. Interestingly, Trump, who bypassed the initial Republican primary debate, has also opted out of the forthcoming forum in California. This move is contrary to the preferences of many Republicans, Fox News viewers, and Trump supporters, who believe he should attend. The CBS/YouGov poll highlighted that 62% of Iowas and 53% of New Hampshires GOP voters view debates as a crucial element in deciding their preferred candidate. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Commonwealth of The Bahamas and the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), on Wednesday signed a $70 million loan agreement on very favourable terms as part of the strategic plan to develop a portfolio of Family Island Airports, in line with the Family Island Airport Renaissance Project. Left to right - Hon. I. Chester Cooper, H.E. Ahmed Al Khateeb and Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad The loan agreement signed on September 27 will facilitate the redevelopment of the Exuma Airport infrastructure, as a part of Phase I of the comprehensive plan. The Government of The Bahamas and the Saudi Fund for Development are also continuing talks on additional funding to include North Eleuthera's airport infrastructure in the next tranche. This is subject to airport inspections by SFD due to take place in early October. According to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation the Honourable I. Chester Cooper, "Today's signing marks a significant milestone in advancing the phased development of targeted airports as part of the Government's Family Islands Airport Renaissance Project, and further solidifies our relationship with The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia." According to CEO of The Saudi Fund for Development Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, "SFDs latest development loan agreement with The Bahamas will play a major role in enhancing the capabilities and renaissance of the nation's Family Island airports. We look forward to working closely with the country's government to ensure timely delivery. We believe that once completed, the project will benefit the economy and bring about prosperity for all the friendly people of The Bahamas." The Bahamas government has outlined its priorities in the Family Island Airport Renaissance Project as Exuma, Grand Bahama, North Eleuthera, Cat Island, Long Island and Black Point, with additional airports to be completed in the next tranche. With over 700 islands and cays, and 16 unique island destinations, The Bahamas lies just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, offering an easy flyaway escape that transports travellers away from their everyday. The Islands of The Bahamas have world-class fishing, diving, boating and thousands of miles of the earth's most spectacular water and beaches waiting for families, couples and adventurers. Explore all the islands have to offer at www.bahamas.com or on Facebook, YouTube or Instagram to see why It's Better in The Bahamas. Story continues PRESS INQUIRIES Dr. Kenneth Romer Director of Aviation Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation kromer@bahamas.com (PRNewsfoto/Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & A) Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bahamas-and-kingdom-of-saudi-arabia-execute-loan-agreement-for-family-island-airport-development-301942288.html SOURCE The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation Concerns over government transparency have surged after the FBI denied a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request by Just the News. The request sought details concerning the investigation into GBI Strategies and allegations of voter registration fraud in the 2020 presidential election. Initial investigations were launched by Michigan city and state authorities focusing on GBI Strategies activities. However, the FBI swiftly took over the investigation, maintaining contact with local law enforcement through 2022. In their bid to reveal more about this investigation, Just the News submitted a FOIA request. They aimed to obtain all reports, documents, and records about GBI Strategies, especially communications with Michigan officials and law enforcement agencies. Last week, the FBI declined the request, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. Their response to Just the News claimed that releasing this information could interfere with ongoing enforcement proceedings. In the meantime, the Michigan attorney generals office has acknowledged a state investigation into possible fraudulent voter registrations, which was eventually passed on to the FBI. Danny Wimmer, press secretary for the state attorney general, disclosed that approximately 8,000 to 10,000 voter registration forms were presented to the Muskegon clerk before the 2020 election. Some of these were suspected to be fraudulent. Wimmer stressed, however, that the fraudulent material did not affect any part of the electoral process, stating, This attempted fraud was detected because the system worked. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) In April 2021, then-Interior Minister Aryeh Deri initiated a program in which valuable coupons for food and other goods in supermarkets were distributed to underprivileged residents of Israel. Any resident receiving a discount on arnona (property tax) was automatically eligible for this program. At the time, Chaim VChessed reported that non-citizens who were residents of Israel and met the programs criteria; i.e. they received arnona discounts were originally prohibited from receiving these coupons, despite seemingly being eligible. Chaim VChessed interfaced extensively at the time with Interior Ministry officials. When these pleas fell upon deaf ears, the organization was forced to engage a top-flight law firm who sent a strongly-worded missive to the Interior Ministry, accusing the program of being in violation of Israeli law. As a result of these efforts, the Interior Ministry caved and began granting these coupons to non-citizen residents as well. History repeats itself. In August, current Interior Minister Moshe Arbel reinstated the food coupon program. Once again, all who are eligible for discounts on their arnona bills are eligible to receive the coupons. Shortly thereafter, various municipalities began advertising the program. Lo and behold, announcements stated clearly that passport holders (i.e. non-citizen residents) are not eligible. Within days, Chaim VChessed was contacted by dozens of residents who had attempted to obtain these valuable coupons and had been rejected. Chaim VChessed immediately contacted Ministry officials, and Knesset members as well. MK Yitzchak Pindrus especially has taken a great interest in resolving this issue. Despite the combined efforts, the Interior Ministry has not budged. In light of this, Chaim VChessed once again engaged Arnon and Co. to investigate the eligibility rules. The prestigious firm discovered that, according to regulations, it is clear that all toshavim (residents) ought to be eligible for this sizable grant. Last week, the legal team, headed by attorney Nir Rosner, sent a sharp letter to the Interior Ministry demanding an immediate rectification of this situation. It is our hope that the Interior Ministry will resolve this matter in a fair and timely fashion. To better lobby for a change, Chaim VChessed is collecting the details of non-citizen residents who should be eligible for this program. If this applies to you, please click here to submit your details. All information will remain confidential. Republican Kari Lake, a Donald Trump ally who has refused to acknowledge her loss in last years race for Arizona governor, will soon launch her campaign for the U.S. Senate seat held by independent Kyrsten Sinema, a senior adviser said Thursday. Lakes entrance in one of next years top Senate contests likely complicates Republican efforts to nominate candidates with a broader appeal after a disappointing showing for the party in last years midterms. She will enter the race as the front-runner for the GOP nomination. Caroline Wren, a senior adviser to Lake, confirmed that she will open her campaign with an Oct. 10 rally. The Wall Street Journal first reported the news. A charismatic former television anchor who is well known in the Phoenix market, Lake built an enthusiastic following among Republicans with her unflinching support for Trump and her steadfast promotion of false claims of election fraud. Lakes star power stretches far beyond Arizona. Lake is seen as a potential running mate for Trump, who is leading polls for the Republican presidential nomination. The Arizona race is a top target for Republicans looking to regain the Senate, where Democrats hold a 51-49 edge that includes Sinema, who left the Democratic Party in 2022 but still receives her committees assignments from Democrats. The 2024 Senate map heavily favors the GOP, with Democratic-held seats up for grabs in three states that Trump won in 2020. Courts have repeatedly rejected Lakes lawsuits challenging last years election results. The litigation has juiced Lakes fundraising but not advanced her false claim to be the duly elected governor Arizona, rather than Democrat Katie Hobbs. Lake joins Pinal County Sheriff Mark Lamb in the Republican Senate primary. Several other Republicans have considered running but have stayed out of the race while Lake considered her plans. They include Blake Masters, Jim Lamon and Karrin Taylor Robson, all businesspeople who lost 2022 races for Senate or governor. U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego, an Iraq War veteran and one of the most prominent Latino officials in Arizona, is the only major Democrat in the race. Sinema is raising money for a potential reelection campaign and is stepping up her public appearances in Arizona, but she has said shes in no hurry to decide whether to seek a second term in the Senate. Her party switch came after she had infuriated many Democrats who saw her as too close to business interests and an impediment to progressive change. Lakes presence in the race could help Sinema if she chooses to mount an independent campaign for reelection. Lake alienated many establishment Republicans during her campaign for governor, even telling McCain Republicans to get the hell out of a campaign event, describing the late and beloved Arizona Sen. John McCain a loser. To win, Sinema will need to win over a sizable chunk of Republicans and Democrats along with a majority of independents. Until Trumps presidency, Arizona had been a reliably Republican state since World War II. Republicans still maintain a registration edge over Democrats, but the GOP lost three consecutive Senate races and last year watched Democrats win the top state offices over a slate of Trump-endorsed election deniers, including Lake. The state is emblematic of the partys struggles to win over suburban voters turned off by Trump. In Lakes loss last year, 11% of voters who identified as Republicans backed Hobbs, including 25% of Republicans who identified as moderate or liberal, according to AP VoteCast, an expansive survey of more than 3,200 voters in Arizona. Democrats posted surprising success in last years Senate races despite a tough economic picture and an unpopular Democratic president after voters rejected Trump-backed Republican nominees in battleground states, including Arizona. Republicans in Washington have pledged to take a more active posture in primaries next year, hoping to ensure the party nominates candidates who can win in November. GOP officials in Washington have taken a wait-and-see approach to the Arizona race, viewing Lake as the odds-on favorite to win the primary but fearing the serious baggage she would carry into a general election. (AP) North Korean leader Kim Jong Un called for an exponential increase in production of nuclear weapons and for his country to play a larger role in a coalition of nations confronting the United States in a new Cold War, state media said Thursday. The Korean Central News Agency said Kim made the comments during a two-day session of the countrys rubber-stamp parliament which amended the constitution to include his policy of expanding the countrys nuclear weapons program. The Supreme Peoples Assemblys session on Tuesday and Wednesday came after Kim traveled to Russias Far East this month to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin and visit military and technology sites. The trip sparked Western concerns about a possible arms alliance in which North Korea would supply Putin with badly needed munitions to fuel his war on Ukraine in exchange for economic aid and advanced Russian technologies to enhance North Koreas nuclear and missile systems. As North Korea slowly ends its pandemic lockdown, Kim has been actively boosting his partnerships with Moscow and Beijing as he attempts to break out of diplomatic isolation and join a united front against Washington. He has described the world as entering a new Cold War and that North Korea should advance its nuclear capabilities in response. KCNAs reports on Kims comments came a day after North Korea c onfirmed the release of U.S. Army Pvt. Travis King, who is now being flown back to America, two months after he sprinted across the heavily fortified border into the North. Kings relatively swift expulsion defied speculation that North Korea might drag out his detention to squeeze concessions from the United States, and possibly reflected the Norths disinterest in diplomacy with Washington. KCNA said members of the assembly gave unanimous approval to a new clause in the constitution to ensure the countrys right to existence and development, deter war and protect regional and global peace by rapidly developing nuclear weapons to a higher level. North Koreas nuclear force-building policy has been made permanent as the basic law of the state, which no one is allowed to flout with anything, Kim said in a speech at the assembly. He stressed the need to push ahead with the work for exponentially boosting the production of nuclear weapons and diversifying the nuclear strike means, KCNA said. Kim pointed to what he described as a growing threat posed by a hostile United States and its expanding military cooperation with South Korea and Japan, accusing them of creating the Asian version of NATO, the root cause of war and aggression. This is just the worst actual threat, not threatening rhetoric or an imaginary entity, he said. Kim urged his diplomats to further promote solidarity with the nations standing against the U.S. and the Wests strategy for hegemony. South Koreas Unification Ministry, which handles relations with North Korea, said the North Korean constitutional amendment confirms Kims unwillingness to relinquish his nuclear weapons program and his unwavering commitment to advancing that arsenal. It said in a statement that South Korea will continue to expand its military cooperation with the U.S. and Japan and work closer with other international partners to increase pressure on North Korea to abandon its nuclear ambitions. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are at their highest level in years as North Korea has test-fired more than 100 missiles since the start of 2022 and the U.S. has expanded its military exercises with its Asian allies, in tit-for-tat responses. Last year, the assembly passed a new nuclear doctrine into law which authorizes pre-emptive nuclear strikes if North Koreas leadership is perceived as under threat. (AP) Delta Air Lines is rethinking changes it already announced to its loyalty program, with the airlines CEO saying it went too far trying to address a surge in the ranks of elite frequent flyers. Delta said two weeks ago that starting in early 2025 it would base elite status purely on spending, instead of also counting flights, and limit airport club access for holders of Delta credit cards. No question we probably went too far in doing that, CEO Ed Bastian told the Atlanta Rotary Club. I think we moved too fast, and we are looking at it now. Bastian promised modifications that the airline will announce sometime over the next few weeks. He didnt give details. Bastian made the comments Monday, and a recording was released Wednesday. The changes were roundly criticized on social media, with some Delta frequent flyers vowing to take their business elsewhere. Alaska Airlines and JetBlue Airways jumped in, pitching offers to woo unhappy Delta customers by matching their loyalty status in those carriers programs. We have received a lot of feedback, Bastian acknowledged. After the CEO said Delta would reconsider some of the changes, the Rotary crowd burst into applause. The number of Delta customers with top-tier Diamond status has doubled since the pandemic began, Bastian said. That has led to a crush of demand for premium seats, upgrades, and access to its airport Sky Clubs and complaints that the clubs have gotten too crowded. Bastian said the Atlanta-based airline needs to be sure it can provide top-tier frequent flyers with the service they expect. (AP) A former aide in Donald Trumps White House says chief of staff Mark Meadows burned papers so often after the 2020 election that it left his office smoky and even prompted his wife to complain that his suits smelled like a bonfire. Cassidy Hutchinson, who was a prominent congressional witness against former President Trump before the House Jan. 6 committee, described the burning papers in a new book set to be released Tuesday. The Associated Press obtained a copy of the book, Enough. Hutchinson was a White House staffer in her 20s who worked for Meadows and testified for two hours on national television about the White Houses inner workings leading up to and including the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. Trump and Meadows tried to challenge the former presidents election loss in several states. Both are under indictment in Georgia for what prosecutors have called an illegal conspiracy to overturn the results. In her book, Hutchinson writes that starting in mid-December, Meadows wanted a fire burning in his office every morning. She says that when she would enter his office to take him lunch or a package, she would sometimes find him leaning over the fire, feeding papers into it, watching to make sure they burned. Hutchinson had previously testified to the House Jan. 6 committee that she had seen Meadows burning documents in his office about a dozen times. Hutchinson said she did not know what papers he was burning but said it raised alarms because federal law regarding presidential records requires staff to keep original documents and send them to the National Archives. She said one day when Republican Rep. Devin Nunes of California went to meet with Meadows, the congressman asked Hutchinson to open the windows in Meadows office because it was smoky. She said she warned Meadows he would set off a smoke alarm. Later, in the days after the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, when the Republican presidents staffers began packing to move out of the White House, Hutchinson said Meadows wife arrived to help and asked the aide to stop lighting the fireplace for Meadows because all of his suits smell like a bonfire and she could not keep up with the dry cleaning. A message seeking comment from Meadows attorney was not returned Monday. (AP) An unbelievable neis occurred on Motzei Yom Kippur outside Wolfson Yeshivah in Bayit Vegan when a bus without a driver rolled down the street, crushing three cars in its path and knocking down an electrical pole while bochurim on the street fled for their lives. BChasdei Hashem and in an open neis, no one was seriously injured in the incident, unlike the tragic outcome from a similar incident that occurred a little over a year ago. In one of the cars that was crushed was Kobi Weiner of Beit Chilkiya and his three children, Itamar, Michoel and Rivka. In an interview with Channel 12 News, as transcribed by Chareidim10, Kobi described what he experienced that night: I had driven to Yerushalayim to bring home my son from yeshivah. When I arrived, I met my son who told me that he needed more time. I waited with my children in the car. Suddenly we saw bochurim running. From the car mirror, I saw bochurim jumping from the doors of the bus. I couldnt grasp what was happening everything happened in two seconds. I braced for the impact because I saw the bus rolling toward me. Channel 12 host: What did you do in those seconds? Kobi: I managed to scream something like Watch out! Michoel was sitting behind me and Rivka was next to him. Itamar was sitting in the front. Channel 12 host: Itamar, what went through your head when you felt the boom? Itamar: I heard bochurim screaming Terror attack! terror attack! Right after the boom, I ran from the car. Channel 12 host: Kobi, when did you realize that it wasnt a terror attack? Kobi: I thought it was a terror attack because I saw bochurim jumping from the bus it was an odd sight. At first, I didnt understand what was going on. Afterward, they told us that the driver wasnt on the bus. We had run away I didnt want to be too close to the car. The bus knocked down an electrical pole that was close to my car. I didnt want to take any risks and I moved away with my children. Channel 12 host: You experienced a neis. Kobi: Baruch Hashem. In the yeshivah where my son learns, there are 1,000-1,500 bochurim who sat and davened the entire day, from morning until evening. I attribute what happened to their zechus it was mamash nissim. The Egged bus company responded to an inquiry about the incident by stating: The safety of Egged passengers is our top priority. As the incident is under police investigation, we cannot comment. It was apparently a human error. We are cooperating with the police and awaiting the results of the investigation. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu recently warned that if Israel doesnt close off its eastern border, it will not remain a Jewish state, Kan News reported. According to the report, Netanyahu said in a recent closed Cabinet meeting that Israel is one of the few countries in the world that has almost complete control over its borders. However, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel has one border that is not properly secured and that is its eastern border [with Jordan]. If we dont close the eastern border, there wont be a Jewish state, Netanyahu said. The current refugee flow from Africa and Islamic countries is affecting all countries. He cited Cyprus as an example, where 6-7% of the population is now Muslim. We could have been in a similar situation to them if we hadnt decided to close our southern border against all infiltrators as well as our northern border. Since Israel has all the elements to be a country that is attractive to infiltrators, and it is close and accessible, and the eastern border is very long and less secure, it may become the next entry point for infiltrators who have no choice because the situation in Africa is deteriorating, hunger is worsening, wars are intensifying, and people will be forced to move, Netanyahu warned. In addition to the issue of illegal infiltrators, Israel has thwarted several arms smuggling operations across the Jordanian border in recent months, and the Israeli-Jordanian border is in general a hotbed of arms and drugs smuggling attempts. In August, the IDF thwarted an attempt to smuggle Iranian-manufactured explosives into Israel across the Jordanian border. Netanyahu has spoken about the idea of building a fence along Israels border with Jordan multiple times in recent months and years and emphasized it after the violent clashes between groups of Eritrean migrants in Tel Aviv earlier this month. On September 3rd, Netanyahu wrote on Twitter: We erected a barrier along our southern border (with Egypt) and successfully prevented infiltration into Israel. This barrier has stopped over a million infiltrators from Africa, which would have destroyed our country. Now we will build a fence on our eastern border (Jordan) and ensure that there will be no infiltration from there either. We will protect our borders we will protect our country! (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) The Supreme Court on Thursday held a second hearing on petitions against the Incapacitation Law, passed as an amendment to a Basic Law in March. Israels Basic Laws have never been struck down by the court and the majority of legal scholars believe the Supreme Court does not have the authority to do so. The Supreme Court held a first hearing on the law in August and then issued a temporary injunction against the implementation of the law. Justice Minister Yariv Levin on Thursday slammed the fact that such a hearing is even taking. The hearing that is taking place today in court is in actuality a hearing on the revocation of the election results. The meaning of delaying the implementation of the Incapacitation Law is that unelected officials can take authority for themselves which was never given to them and discuss the delusional possibility in itself of ordering a prime minister to incapacitate himself, in complete opposition to the election results. The petitioners are actually seeking to impeach Prime Minister Netanyahu, in order to put an end to right-wing rule. They failed at the ballot box, and now they want to revoke the election results. The result of this is that Israel will no longer have democracy, but the rule of people who put themselves above the people, above the voters decision at the ballot box. The chairman of the Knessets Constitution Committee Simcha Rothman said: The very existence of such a discussion in a democratic state is a very extreme act. Its like the government holding a discussion on revoking the elections. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) New Jersey Sen. Robert Menendez remained defiant in the face of federal bribery charges on Thursday, telling a room full of his Senate Democratic colleagues that he has no plans to resign. Speaking behind closed doors at the Capitol, Menendez echoed his previous public statements in response to last weeks indictment, according to a person who attended the private luncheon and requested anonymity to discuss it. Menendez has repeatedly denied wrongdoing and pledged that he will beat the charges that he worked to secretly advance Egyptian interests and pressured prosecutors to help his friends. More than half of Democratic senators have said Menendez should step down. But none of them asked questions after he spoke and vowed to remain in office, according to several senators leaving the meeting. But Menendezs remarks also appeared to win him no new allies, further isolating the New Jersey senator as his colleagues and Democratic leaders have wrestled over how to respond to the indictment alleging that he traded off his Senate position to enrich himself with cash, gold bars and a luxury car. My mind is not changed, said Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., who has called on Menendez to step down. He declined to give any additional details about the meeting. I dont think theres anything happy about his situation, said Rhode Island Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse. He was pretty clear that hes not resigning, said Maryland Sen. Ben Cardin, who is taking over for Menendez as chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Menendez was forced to step down after he was indicted due to caucus rules. Menendez, who pleaded not guilty to the charges on Wednesday, did not tell his colleagues whether he will run for re-election next year. At least one Democrat, New Jersey Rep. Andy Kim, has already jumped into the primary, and the head of Senate Democrats campaign arm, Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, has called on Menendez to resign signaling that he may not receive campaign assistance traditionally available to incumbents. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., hinted at the uncertainty of Menendezs political future when he announced on Wednesday that Menendez would speak at Thursdays meeting. Well see what happens after that, Schumer said. But Schumer, who has not called on Menendez to resign, would not comment as he left the meeting. Menendez also declined to elaborate. They heard my message, he said of his colleagues. He reiterated he will not step aside. The New Jersey senator is accused along with his wife, Nadine, in an indictment released Friday of using his position to aid the authoritarian government of Egypt and to pressure federal prosecutors to drop a case against a friend, among other allegations of corruption. The three-count indictment says they were paid gold bars, a luxury car and cash by three New Jersey businessmen as bribes in exchange for multiple corrupt acts. Menendez, who was released on a $100,000 bond Wednesday, has said the cash found in his home was drawn from his personal savings accounts over the years and that he kept it on hand for emergencies. One of the envelopes full of cash found at his home, however, bore the DNA of one of the businessmen who are charged as his co-conspirators, the indictment said. It was also marked with the real estate developers return address, according to prosecutors. The indictment alleges repeated actions by Menendez to benefit Egypt, despite U.S. government misgivings over the countrys human rights record that in recent years have prompted Congress to attach restrictions on aid. Prosecutors, who detailed meetings and dinners between Menendez and Egyptian officials, say Menendez gave sensitive U.S. government information to Egyptian officials and ghostwrote a letter to fellow senators encouraging them to lift a hold on $300 million in aid to Egypt, one of the top recipients of U.S. military support. Its the second corruption case in a decade against Menendez, whose last trial involving different allegations ended with jurors failing to reach a verdict in 2017. Menendez was similarly defiant as he fought those charges. But that time most of his colleagues stood by him including fellow New Jersey Democratic Sen. Cory Booker, who was a character witness in his trial. On Tuesday, Booker called for his longtime colleague to step down, saying the new indictment includes shocking allegations of corruption and specific, disturbing details of wrongdoing. Booker would not comment on Menendezs remarks after Thursdays caucus lunch. West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin was one of the few senators who did comment after the meeting, telling reporters that he would still give Menendez the benefit of the doubt. The rule of law is for all of us, Manchin said. He is going to vigorously defend himself. (AP) Highlights Advancements in genetic and genomic technologies allow for more customized health care called 'precision health'. For precision health technologies to be effective, health care providers and educators need to know how to use them. A Genome BC-funded pilot project integrating precision health concepts and genomics education into the Master of Nursing Nurse Practitioner program at Thompson Rivers University is the first initiative in Canada to make this training available to nurses. VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 28, 2023 /CNW/ - The way we deliver and receive health care is changing rapidly. Advancements in genetic and genomic technologies have opened the door to health care that is tailored to a person's genetic makeup a practice called 'precision health'. Precision health has gone from being a service offered at specialized clinics to an essential component of everyday health care. However, this integration is hindered when there is limited genomic knowledge among health care providers and educators. This is the first initiative in Canada to integrate precision health concepts and genomics education into nurse practitioner training for both students and faculty. (CNW Group/Genome British Columbia) To bridge this gap, Genome British Columbia (Genome BC) is funding a pilot project to integrate genomics education into the new Master of Nursing - Nurse Practitioner program at Thompson Rivers University (TRU). The project is a collaboration with the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) with additional expertise from the University of British Columbia (UBC). This is the first initiative in Canada to integrate precision health concepts and genomics education into nurse practitioner training for both students and faculty. "The main aim of this program is to make sure that everyone in BC who needs clinical genomic services can access them. We believe that providing health care providers with the right education is the starting point for achieving equitable access to genomics and precision health care for all," says Sally Greenwood, Vice President of Communications and Societal Engagement at Genome BC. Story continues Genome BC's Genomic Education for Health Professionals (GEHP) program is the first initiative designed to strengthen the skills of health care workers in genomics. It was developed after a lack of resources to educate health professionals was identified as a major obstacle to using genomics in clinical care. According to project co-lead, Dr. Sarah Dewell, Assistant Professor of Nursing at TRU, "Existing nurse practitioner programs teach very little genetic or genomic content, yet it is now a crucial part of many primary care clinical interactions regarding prevention, diagnosis and treatment of common diseases. We will introduce genomic literacy at TRU in a way that ensures it is immediately relevant and relatable." Through this project, nurse practitioner graduates and faculty will acquire the knowledge and skills to support the appropriate use of genetics and genomics in any community in the province. A crucial aspect of this project is extending the benefits of genomics to regions in British Columbia often neglected due to social and geographical reasons. Members of the Department of Medical Genetics and the Faculty of Education at UBC will collaborate on the development of online learning materials with contributions by the faculty and students from UNBC's Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner Program. Dr. Catharine Schiller, Chair of UNBC's School of Nursing, says, "Our nurse practitioner faculty and students are looking forward to participating in this novel pilot project and contributing to improved health equity in BC." This pilot project is a big step forward in using genomics and precision health in Canadian nursing care. Dr. Rani Srivastava, Dean of Nursing at TRU, states, "This pilot project resonates with TRU's innovative and collaborative approach to nursing education. Our faculty eagerly anticipates integrating genomic content into our new nurse practitioner program and strengthening connections with UNBC and UBC." About Genome British Columbia: Genome BC is a not-for-profit organization supporting world-class genomics research and innovation to grow globally competitive life sciences sectors and deliver sustainable benefits for British Columbia, Canada and beyond. The organization's initiatives are improving the lives of British Columbians by advancing health care as well as addressing environmental and natural resource challenges. In addition to scientific programming, Genome BC works to integrate genomics into society by supporting responsible research and innovation and foster an understanding and appreciation of the life sciences among educators, students and the public. genomebc.ca About Nurse Practitioners: Nurse Practitioners (NPs) play a crucial role as licensed primary health care providers, equipped with nursing degrees and experience as registered nurses, followed by graduate education at the master's level. NPs provide longitudinal, comprehensive primary care by diagnosing and treating people with a range of acute and chronic conditions across the lifespan. NPs order and interpret routine and specialized tests, prescribe medication and seamlessly initiate referrals to specialists. As such, NPs form an integral part of the overall strategy to enhance access to team-based primary care in British Columbia. bccmn.ca The Genome BC Logo (CNW Group/Genome British Columbia) SOURCE Genome British Columbia Cision View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/September2023/28/c1438.html Five family members were killed in a mass shooting Wednesday in an Arab town in northern Israel, police and advocates said, the latest victims of a recent surge of gun violence within the countrys Arab communities. Another Arab citizen of Israel was killed in a separate shooting earlier Wednesday. Israeli police said that three men and two women were shot and killed at a house in the northern Bedouin town of Basmat Tabun. They said they were treating the incident as criminal and hunting down suspected assailants. Israeli medics said that a sixth man was shot and wounded in the rampage. The Abraham Initiatives, a Jewish-Arab advocacy and monitoring group in Israel, identified the victims as an Arab couple and their three children. The police declined to provide further details on the shooting or the victims due to the ongoing investigation, which they said involved several national units diligently pursuing all leads using advanced technological resources. Previous such shootings have involved disputes between organized crime families. Five family members were killed in a mass shooting Wednesday in an Arab town in northern Israel, police and advocates said, the latest victims of a recent surge of gun violence within the countrys Arab communities. Another Arab citizen of Israel was killed in a separate shooting earlier Wednesday. Israeli police said that three men and two women were shot and killed at a house in the northern Bedouin town of Basmat Tabun. They said they were treating the incident as criminal and hunting down suspected assailants. Israeli medics said that a sixth man was shot and wounded in the rampage. The Abraham Initiatives, a Jewish-Arab advocacy and monitoring group in Israel, identified the victims as an Arab couple and their three children. The police declined to provide further details on the shooting or the victims due to the ongoing investigation, which they said involved several national units diligently pursuing all leads using advanced technological resources. Previous such shootings have involved disputes between organized crime families. Violence in Israels Arab sector has intensified, with 188 people killed this year, according to the Abraham Initiatives more than double the number of such homicides for similar periods in recent years. Israels Palestinian Arab minority makes up roughly a fifth of Israels population. (AP) Airline says it now only expects to receive 14 new Boeing aircrafts Ryanair has cut its winter flight schedule due to delays in the delivery of new Boeing 737 planes. The budget airline will reduce the number of aircraft it planned to base at several airports across Europe, including East Midlands Airport and Dublin Airport. It said on Thursday it was due to receive 27 new Boeing aircraft between September and December, but expects the figure to be just 14. The airline said it was due to receive 27 new Boeing aircraft between September and December, but expects the figure to be just 14 This is due to production delays at the Spirit fuselage factory in Wichita, Kansas, combined with Boeing hold-ups in repairs and deliveries in Seattle, Washington. We apologise sincerely to passengers for any inconvenience caused Michael O'Leary, Ryanair Ryanair Group CEO Michael O'Leary said: 'We are working closely with Boeing and their supplier, Spirit, to minimise these delivery delays. 'It is deeply regrettable that production problems in Wichita and in Seattle have yet again delayed Boeing's contracted deliveries to Ryanair this winter. 'We are in regular dialogue with Boeing, and our primary objective is to ensure we get delivery of all 57 contracted B737 aircraft before the end of May 2024, so that Ryanair's fleet can grow to over 600 aircraft for what will be our largest ever summer flight programme.' Earlier this month, Ryanair revealed that it had flown record passenger numbers for the fourth straight month despite hundreds of flight cancellations caused by the recent air traffic control meltdown. Europe's largest airline carried over 18.9million customers in August, an 11 per cent increase on the same month last year and more than a quarter up on 2019 volumes. This was also around 200,000 higher than the previous record of 18.7million who travelled with the Dublin-based group in July. O'Leary added: 'These flight cancellations will take effect from the end of October, and will be communicated to all affected passengers by email over the coming days. 'Passengers will be offered re-accommodation on alternative flights or full refunds as they so wish. We apologise sincerely to passengers for any inconvenience caused by these delivery delays this winter. 'At this early date, we do not expect these delivery delays will materially affect our full-year traffic target of 183.5 million, but if the delays worsen or extend further into the January to March 2024 period, we may have to revisit this figure and possibly adjust it slightly downward.' A 'dishonest' financial adviser at the heart of the British Steel pension scandal was yesterday fined and banned from working in the industry. Darren Reynolds was fined 2.2m by the Financial Conduct Authority after he 'duped' savers into leaving gold-plated retirement schemes and placing their money in 'high-risk investments'. The regulator said he 'dishonestly' advised more than 670 people including 150 in the British Steel Pension Scheme with 511 losing 42.3m while he picked up more than 1m in fees. Announcing the fine and ban, the FCA said Reynolds 'had a clear disregard for customers' interests in favour of his own personal gain'. Therese Chambers, joint executive director for enforcement and market oversight at the FCA, said: 'This is one of the worst cases we have seen.' Target: Port Talbot steelworks where the scandal dates to 2017 Campaigners for steelworkers who lost out in what has been described as 'the biggest pension scandal in a generation' welcomed the ruling but warned it was 'a pyrrhic victory' given Reynolds who has appealed leaves 'many ruined lives in his wake'. The scandal dates to 2017 when members of the British Steel Pension Scheme including many workers at Port Talbot were given the choice of leaving their savings in the old scheme or joining a new, less generous one. With the old scheme likely to fall into the Pension Protection Fund, resulting in a 10 per cent 'haircut' for savers, and the new offer also leaving members with less, many workers were encouraged to take their money out completely and move it into a private retirement pot. A total of 8,000 steelworkers were convinced to transfer out a combined 2.8billion some by financial advisers such as Reynolds and his firm Active Wealth. Reynolds, 53, was not the only financial adviser involved in the scandal and did not just target steelworkers. Another, Andrew Deeney, 57, was also banned by the FCA yesterday and fined 397,400 having scooped 200,000 in commission payments offering dodgy advice. The FCA said Reynolds 'dishonestly established, maintained and concealed a business model which incentivised recommending products which produced the highest commission for the adviser rather than the best outcome for the customer'. The FCA said 19.8m has been paid out to 511 former Active Wealth customers by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. But at least 270 lost more than the compensation limit of 50,000. Chambers said: 'Mr Reynolds, who allowed evidence to be destroyed and who has consistently sought to evade accountability, and Mr Deeney, lied and lied again. First, to dupe people into leaving safe pension schemes and placing money meant for their retirement in unsuitable, high-risk investments. 'Then to try and hide their misconduct from us. Such people have no place in our industry.' Financial adviser Al Rush, who has helped British Steel pension holders recover their finances, said: 'For these steelworkers and their families, his [Reynolds's] actions can never be atoned for.' China Pharma Holdings, Inc. develops, manufactures, and markets generic and branded pharmaceutical, and biochemical products primarily to hospitals and private retailers in the People's Republic of China. The company offers products in the form of dry powder injectables, liquid injectables, tablets, capsules, and cephalosporin oral solutions. Its products include Cerebroprotein Hydroloysate injection to treat memory decline and attention deficit; Gastrodin injection for tiredness, loss of concentration, poor sleep, and traumatic syndromes of the brain; Propylgallate injection to treat cerebral thrombosis, coronary heart disease, and after surgery complications; Ozagrel Sodium to treat acute thrombotic cerebral infarction and dyskinesia; Alginic Sodium Diester injection for ischemic heart, cerebrovascular, and high lipoprotein blood diseases; Bumetanide injection to treat edema diseases; and Candesartan for hypertension. The company also provides Roxithromycin dispersible tablets for pharyngitis and tonsillitis; Cefaclor dispersible tablets for tympanitis, lower respiratory tract infection, urinary tract infections, and skin/skin tissue infection; Cefalexin capsules for acute tonsillitis; Andrographolide for sore throat caused by upper respiratory tract infection; Clarithromycin granules and capsules; and Naproxen Sodium and PseudophedrineHydrochlorida sustained release tablets. It offers Hepatocyte growth-promoting factor, Tiopronin, Compound Ammonium Glycyrrhetate S, and Omeparzole for the treatment of digestive diseases. The company provides Vitamin B6 injection; Granisetron Hydrochloride injection to treat nausea and vomiting caused by radiotherapy and chemotherapy during the treatment of malignant tumors; Noni Enzyme, a food supplement; sanitizers; and masks. It offers its products through distributors, its network of sales offices, and sales representatives. The company is based in Haikou, the People's Republic of China. Klepierre is the European leader in shopping malls, combining property development and asset management skills. The Company's portfolio is valued at 19.4 billion at June 30, 2023, and comprises large shopping centers in more than 10 countries in Continental Europe which together host hundreds of millions of visitors per year. Klepierre holds a controlling stake in Steen & Strm (56.1%), Scandinavia's number one shopping center owner and manager. Klepierre is a French REIT (SIIC) listed on Euronext Paris and is included in the CAC Next 20 and EPRA Euro Zone Indexes. It is also included in ethical indexes, such as Euronext CAC 40 ESG, CAC SBT 1.5, MSCI Europe ESG Leaders, FTSE4Good, Euronext Vigeo Europe 120, and features in CDP's "A-list". These distinctions underscore the Group's commitment to a proactive sustainable development policy and its global leadership in the fight against climate change. Curtiss-Wright Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides engineered products, solutions, and services to the aerospace, defense, general industrial, and power generation markets worldwide. It operates through three segments: Aerospace & Industrial, Defense Electronics, and Naval & Power. The Aerospace & Industrial segment offers industrial and specialty vehicle products, such as electronic throttle control devices, joysticks, and transmission shifters; sensors, controls and electro-mechanical actuation components used in commercial and military aircraft; and surface technology services, including shot peening, laser peening, and coatings. The Defense Electronics segment provides commercial off-the-shelf embedded computing board-level modules, data acquisition and flight test instrumentation equipment, integrated subsystems, instrumentation and control systems, and tactical communications solutions; turret aiming and stabilization products, and weapons handling systems; avionics and electronics; flight test equipment; and aircraft data management solutions. The Naval & Power segment offers hardware, pumps, pump seals, control rod drive mechanisms, valves, fastening systems, specialized containment doors, airlock hatches, spent fuel management products, and fluid sealing products for nuclear power plants and nuclear equipment manufacturers; and naval propulsion and auxiliary equipment, including coolant pumps, power-dense compact motors, generators, steam turbines, valves, and secondary propulsion systems, as well as ship repair and maintenance services primarily to the U.S. navy. Curtiss-Wright Corporation was founded in 1929 and is headquartered in Davidson, North Carolina. Kosmos Energy Ltd. engages in the exploration and production of oil and gas properties along the Atlantic Margins in the United States. The company's primary assets include production projects located in offshore Ghana, Equatorial Guinea, and the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, as well as a gas projects located in offshore Mauritania and Senegal. It also undertakes a proven basin exploration program in Equatorial Guinea and the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. Kosmos Energy Ltd. was founded in 2003 and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas. 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. Occidental Petroleum Corporation is an international oil and gas giant founded in 1920 to explore for oil in California. The company made its name in the early 1960safter discovering the Lathrop Gas Field in Lathrop, California. The company expanded into chemicals manufacturing in 1968 and then in 1972 it became a pioneer in the quest to extract oil from shale. In 1993, the company made a historic move by exiting its coal operations, and then it did so again when it embraced a lower carbon future. The company worked to realign its goals with a carbon-free future in 2021. After extensive review, new carbon emission targets were laid out along with a plan that the Transition Pathway Initiative recognized as being 1 of 3 coming from major oil companies that could realistically result in net-zero emissions by 2050. Since then the company has laid interim goals that include net zero from operations and energy by 2040 and no routine flaring by 2030. Today, Occidental Petroleum is an integrated energy company with operations in the US, the Middle East, Africa, and Columbia along with some other smaller operations. The company operates a network of best-in-class production, delivery, and storage facilities with operations centered in the US. On a net basis, the companys US operations accounted for more than 75% of the total in 2022 with 19% from Middle East operations and the remainder from Columbia and elsewhere. The company engages in the oil & gas business as an explorer, producer, and mid-stream infrastructure operator. The company operates through three segments that include Oil and Gas, Chemicals, and Midstream & Marketing. The oil and gas segment explores for oil, develops new fields, and produces hydrocarbon liquids, gasses, and condensates. The chemicals segment manufactures a range of chemicals including chlorine, potassium chemicals, and vinyl. The midstream segment transports, stores, and markets hydrocarbons. It is the 6th largest oil and gas producer in the US by market cap. The company attained the position after its acquisition of Anadarko Petroleum in 2019, the 4th largest oil and gas acquisition at the time. Berkshire Hathaway became Occidental Petroleums largest shareholder in mid-2022. The firm had purchased more than 26% of the shares as of 10/14/2022 and had regulatory approval to purchase up to 50% of the company in total. Kayne Anderson MLP Investment Company is a closed ended equity mutual fund launched and managed by KA Fund Advisors, LLC. It is co-managed by Kayne Anderson Capital Advisors, L.P. The fund invests in the public equity markets of the United States. It invests in stocks of companies operating in the energy sector. The fund primarily invests in energy-related master limited partnerships. Kayne Anderson MLP Investment Company was formed on June 4, 2004 and is domiciled in the United States. TORONTO, Sept. 28, 2023 /CNW/ - BDO Canada released its annual environmental, social, and governance (ESG) report, placing a spotlight on how the firm is applying a sustainability lens and implementing ESG principles across its operations. The report sheds light on the firm's strategy and sets the priorities and direction that will be enhanced on an annual basis. BDO Canada LLC (CNW Group/BDO Canada LLC) "The Annual ESG Report is an important milestone for BDO Canada," said Bruno Suppa, Chief Executive Officer of BDO Canada. "It conveys our unwavering commitment to our people, clients, firm, and planet. We have initiated a strategic direction for our firm that puts sustainability at the forefront of every facet of our operations." The firm has been committed to various ESG initiatives throughout its 100-plus years of business in Canada and continues its journey to enhance and integrate evolving ESG risks and opportunities into its business strategy and operations. The report details these initiatives and progress towards future goals. As BDO Canada continues to evolve its efforts, integrating sustainable practices into the firm's operations and strategies, the firm has committed to: Attaining net-zero emissions by 2050 or sooner. Achieving 50% gender parity and 30% representation from combined diversity pillars in senior roles. Building strong ethical behaviour practices through the firm's Whistleblower Policy and firm-wide training. "We defined our priorities through a comprehensive stakeholder engagement process and put an emphasis on documenting our progress toward these goals," said Pierre Taillefer, National Sustainability and ESG Leader at BDO Canada. "This report puts us on the path to continue to gain invaluable experience and expertise in ESG and allow us to share our knowledge to guide other companies in their journeys." BDO Canada has exemplified their commitment to people and the planet through: Becoming a signatory to the Net Zero Financial Service Providers Alliance. Becoming a member of the Canadian coalition of partners that support the new International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB). Achieving stronger diversity at the leadership level with 44% of executive leadership team roles held by women and 37.5% by other equity-deserving groups. Participating in the FCC Drive Away Hunger campaign for the 15th year in a row, raising $252,320. Enhancing BDO's Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) program. Story continues "We are on a path toward unlocking the full potential of ESG," said Kerri Plexman, Managing Partner, Talent and Culture at BDO Canada. "Through our approach that focuses on diversity, equity, and inclusion; social commitment; environmental action; governance structure; and client support, we have formalized a strategy in which we believe we can make the greatest impact." View the full report here. About BDO Canada BDO Canada LLP is a leading provider of professional services to clients across a variety of sectors and segments. For over 100 years, our team has served communities across Canada through a comprehensive range of assurance, tax, and consulting services, complemented by deep industry knowledge. With over 5,000 people across 100 offices in Canada, and more than 1,800 offices in 164 countries, BDO is well-positioned to assist clients with both domestic and global needs. BDO Canada LLP, a Canadian limited liability partnership, is a member of BDO International Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, and forms part of the international BDO network of independent member firms. BDO is the brand name for the BDO network and for each of the BDO member Firms. For more information, visit: www.bdo.ca SOURCE BDO Canada LLC Cision View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/September2023/28/c5842.html Best Buy Co., Inc. engages in the retail of technology products in the United States and Canada. The company operates in two segments, Domestic and International. Its stores provide computing and mobile phone products, such as desktops, notebooks, and peripherals; mobile phones comprising related mobile network carrier commissions; networking products; tablets covering e-readers; smartwatches; and consumer electronics consisting of digital imaging, health and fitness products, home theater, portable audio comprising headphones and portable speakers, and smart home products. The company's stores also offer appliances, such as dishwashers, laundry, ovens, refrigerators, blenders, coffee makers, and vacuums; entertainment products consisting of drones, peripherals, movies, music, and toys, as well as gaming hardware and software, and virtual reality and other software products; and other products, such as baby, food and beverage, luggage, outdoor living, and sporting goods. In addition, it provides consultation, delivery, design, installation, memberships, repair, set-up, technical support, health-related, and warranty-related services. The company offers its products through stores and websites under the Best Buy, Best Buy Ads, Best Buy Business, Best Buy Health, Buy Mobile, CST, Current Health, Geek Squad, Lively, Magnolia, Pacific Kitchen, Home, TechLiquidators, and Yardbird brands, as well as domain names comprising bestbuy.com, currenthealth.com, lively.com, techliquidators.com, yardbird.com, and bestbuy.ca. The company was formerly known as Sound of Music, Inc. Best Buy Co., Inc. was incorporated in 1966 and is headquartered in Richfield, Minnesota. The iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF (USMV) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI USA Minimum Volatility (USD) index. The fund tracks an index of US-listed firms selected and weighted to create a low-volatility portfolio subject to various constraints. USMV was launched on Oct 18, 2011 and is managed by BlackRock. 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. ETFMG Prime Cyber Security ETF's stock was trading at $44.05 at the start of the year. Since then, HACK shares have increased by 16.1% and is now trading at $51.16. View the best growth stocks for 2023 here. Boston Scientific Corporation develops, manufactures, and markets medical devices for use in various interventional medical specialties worldwide. It operates through MedSurg and Cardiovascular segments. The company offers devices to diagnose and treat gastrointestinal and pulmonary conditions; devices to treat various urological and pelvic conditions; implantable cardioverter and implantable cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillators; pacemakers and implantable cardiac resynchronization therapy pacemakers; and remote patient management systems. It also provides medical technologies to diagnose and treat rate and rhythm disorders of the heart comprising 3-D cardiac mapping and navigation solutions, ablation catheters, diagnostic catheters, mapping catheters, intracardiac ultrasound catheters, delivery sheaths, and other accessories; spinal cord stimulator systems for the management of chronic pain; indirect decompression systems; and deep brain stimulation systems. In addition, the company offers interventional cardiology products, that uses in the treatment of coronary artery disease and aortic valve conditions. Further, it provides stents, balloon catheters, guidewires, atherectomy, and thrombectomy systems to treat arterial and venous diseases; and peripheral embolization devices, radioactive microspheres, cryotherapy ablation systems, and micro and drainage catheters to treat cancer. The company was incorporated in 1979 and is headquartered in Marlborough, Massachusetts. The following companies are subsidiares of Illinois Tool Works: A V Co 1 Limited, A V Co 2 Limited, A V Co 3 Limited, ACCU-LUBE Manufacturing GmbH - Schmiermittel und -gerate -, AIP/BI Holdings Inc., Accessories Marketing Holding Corp., Advanced Molding Company Inc., Allen France SAS, Alpine Engineered Products, Alpine Systems Corporation, Anaerobicos S.r.l., AppliChem GmbH, Avery Berkel France, Avery India Limited, Avery Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Avery Weigh Tronix, Avery Weigh-Tronix Finance Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix International Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix LLC, Avery Weigh-Tronix Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix Properties Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix Suzhou Weighing Technology Co. Ltd., Azon Limited, B.C. Immo, Beijing Miller Electric Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Berkel Ireland Limited, Berrington UK, Brapenta Eletronica Ltda., Brooks Instrument B.V., Brooks Instrument GmbH, Brooks Instrument KFT, Brooks Instrument Korea Ltd., Brooks Instrument LLC, Brooks Instrument Shanghai Co. Ltd, Buell Industries Inc., CCI Realty Company, CFC Europe GmbH, CS Australia Pty Limited, CS Mexico Holding Company S DE RL DE CV, Calvia Spolka z Ograniczona Odpowiedzialnosci, Capital Ventures Australasia S.a r.l, Capmax Logistica S.A. de C.V., Celeste Industries Corporation, Coeur, Coeur Asia Limited, Coeur Holding Company, Coeur Inc., Coeur Shanghai Medical Appliance Trading Co. Ltd, Compagnie Hobart, Compagnie de Materiel et d'Equipements Techniques-Comet, Constructions Isothermiques Bontami C.I.B., Crane Carrier Company, Denison Mayes Group Limited, Despatch Industries, Diagraph Corporation Sdn. Bhd, Diagraph ITW Mexico S. de R.L. De C.V., Diagraph Mexico S.A. DE C.V., Dongguan Ark-Les Electric Components Co. Ltd., Dongguan CK Branding Co. Ltd., Duo Fast de Espana S.A.U., Duo-Fast Korea Co. Ltd., Duo-Fast LLC, E.C.S. d.o.o., E2M Production B.V.., E2M Technologies B.V.., E2M Technologies Inc.., ECS Cable Protection Sp. Zoo, ELRO Grosskuchen GmbH, ELRO Holding AG, ELRO-WERKE AG, Elro Group, Eltex-Elektrostatik-Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Envases Multipac S.A. de C.V., Eurotec Srl, Exhibit 21, FEG Investments L.L.C., Filtertek De Mexico Holding Inc., Filtertek De Mexico S.A. de C.V., Filtertek SAS, GC Financement SA, Gamko B.V., Gun Hwa Platech Taicang Co. Ltd., HOBART Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Hartness International, Hobart Andina S.A.S., Hobart Belgium B.V., Hobart Brothers International Chile Limitada, Hobart Brothers LLC, Hobart Dayton Mexicana S. de R.L. de C.V., Hobart Food Equipment Co. Ltd., Hobart International Singapore Pte. Ltd., Hobart Japan K.K., Hobart Korea LLC, Hobart LLC, Hobart Nederland B.V., Hobart Sales & Service Inc., Hobart Scandinavia ApS, Hobart Techniek B.V., Horis, ILC Investments Holdings Inc., ITW AEP LLC, ITW AOC LLC, ITW Aircraft Investments Inc., ITW Ampang Industries Philippines Inc., ITW Appliance Components EOOD, ITW Appliance Components S.A. de C.V., ITW Appliance Components S.r.l.a, ITW Appliance Components d.o.o., ITW Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, ITW Australia Property Holdings Pty Ltd., ITW Australia Pty Ltd, ITW Automotive Components Chongqing Co. Ltd., ITW Automotive Components Langfang Co. Ltd., ITW Automotive Japan K.K., ITW Automotive Korea LLC, ITW Automotive Parts Shanghai Co. Ltd, ITW Automotive Products GmbH, ITW Automotive Products Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Bailly Comte, ITW Befestigungssysteme GmbH, ITW Belgium B.V., ITW Brazilian Nominee L.L.C., ITW Building Components Group Inc., ITW CER, ITW CP Distribution Center Holland BV, ITW CS UK Ltd., ITW Canada Inc., ITW Celeste Inc., ITW Chemical Products Ltda, ITW Chemical Products Scandinavia ApS, ITW China Investment Company Limited, ITW Colombia S.A.S., ITW Construction Products AB, ITW Construction Products AS, ITW Construction Products ApS, ITW Construction Products CZ s.r.o., ITW Construction Products Italy Srl, ITW Construction Products OU, ITW Construction Products OY, ITW Construction Products Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW Construction Products Singapore Pte. Ltd., ITW Construction Services Manila Inc., ITW Contamination Control B.V., ITW Contamination Control Wujiang Co. Ltd., ITW Covid Security Group Inc., ITW DS Investments Inc., ITW DelFast do Brasil Ltda., ITW Denmark ApS, ITW Deutschland GmbH, ITW Diagraph GmbH, ITW Dynatec, ITW Dynatec Adhesive Equipment Suzhou Co. Ltd., ITW Dynatec GmbH, ITW Dynatec Kabushiki Kaisha, ITW EAE B.V., ITW EAE Mexico S de RL de CV, ITW EF&C France SAS, ITW EF&C Selb GmbH, ITW EU Holdings Ltd., ITW Electronic Business Asia Co. Limited, ITW Electronic Components/Products Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW Electronics Suzhou Co. Ltd., ITW Epsilon Sarl, ITW Espana S.L., ITW European Finance Co. Ltd., ITW European Finance II Co. Ltd., ITW European Finance III Co. Ltd., ITW FEG Hong Kong Limited, ITW FEG do Brasil Industria e Comercio Ltda., ITW Fastener Products GmbH, ITW Fluids and Hygiene Solutions Ltda., ITW Food Equipment Group LLC, ITW GH LLC, ITW GSE ApS, ITW GSE Inc., ITW Gamma Sarl, ITW German Management LLC, ITW Global Investments Holdings LLC, ITW Global Investments Holdings Y Compania Sociedad en Comandita por Acciones, ITW Global Investments Inc., ITW Global Tire Repair Europe GmbH, ITW Global Tire Repair Inc., ITW Global Tire Repair Japan K.K., ITW Graphics Asia Limited, ITW Graphics Thailand Ltd., ITW Great Britain Investment & Licensing Holding Company, ITW Group France Luxembourg S.ar.l., ITW HLP Thailand Co. Ltd., ITW Holding Quimica B.C. S.L. Sole Shareholder Company, ITW Holdings Australia L.P., ITW Holdings I Limited, ITW Holdings II Limited, ITW Holdings III Limited, ITW Holdings IV Limited, ITW Holdings IX Limited, ITW Holdings Inc., ITW Holdings V Limited, ITW Holdings VI Limited, ITW Holdings VII Limited, ITW Holdings VIII Limited, ITW Holdings X Limited, ITW Holdings XI Limited, ITW ILC Holdings I Inc., ITW IPG Investments LLC, ITW Imaden Industria e Comercio Ltda., ITW India Private Limited, ITW International Holdings LLC, ITW Invest Holding GmbH, ITW Ireland Holdings Unlimited Company, ITW Ireland Unlimited Company, ITW Italy Holding Srl, ITW Japan Ltd., ITW Korea LLC, ITW LLC & Co. KG, ITW Limited, ITW Lys Fusion S.r.l., ITW Materials Technology Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW Meritex Sdn. Bhd., ITW Metal Fasteners S.L., ITW Mexico Holding Company S. De R.L. de C.V., ITW Mexico Holdings LLC, ITW Morlock GmbH, ITW Mortgage Investments II Inc., ITW Mortgage Investments III Inc., ITW Mortgage Investments IV Inc., ITW Netherlands Administration BV, ITW Netherlands Beta B.V., ITW Netherlands Finance Alpha BV, ITW New Universal LLC, ITW New Zealand, ITW Ningbo Components & Fastenings Systems Co. Ltd., ITW Novadan Sp. Z.o.o., ITW PPF Brasil Adesivos Ltda., ITW Packaging Technology China Co. Ltd., ITW Participations S.a r.l., ITW Pension Funds Trustee Company, ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids Japan Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids Korea Limited, ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids OOO, ITW Performance Polymers ApS, ITW Performance Polymers Wujiang Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers and Fluids Group FZE, ITW Peru S.A.C., ITW Poly Mex S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Polymers Sealants North America Inc., ITW Pronovia s.r.o., ITW Pte. Ltd., ITW Qufu Automotive Cooling Systems Co. Ltd., ITW Real Estate Germany GmbH, ITW Residuals III L.L.C., ITW Residuals IV L.L.C., ITW Rivex, ITW SMPI, ITW SPG Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Simco-Ion Shenzhen Co. Ltd., ITW Slovakia s.r.o., ITW Spain Holdings S.L., ITW Specialty Film LLC, ITW Specialty Films France, ITW Specialty Materials Suzhou Co. Ltd., ITW Sverige AB, ITW Sweden Holding AB, ITW Test & Measurement Equipment Shanghai Co. Ltd, ITW Test & Measurement GmbH, ITW Test and Measurement Italia Srl, ITW Test and Measurement Services Industry and Trade Ltd., ITW Texwipe Philippines Inc., ITW Thermal Films Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW UK, ITW UK Finance Beta Limited, ITW UK Finance Delta Limited, ITW UK Finance Gamma Limited, ITW UK Finance Limited, ITW UK Finance Zeta Ltd., ITW UK II Limited, ITW Universal II LLC, ITW Welding, ITW Welding AB, ITW Welding GmbH, ITW Welding Products B.V., ITW Welding Products Group FZE, ITW Welding Products Group S. DE R.L. De C.V., ITW Welding Products Italy Srl, ITW Welding Products Limited Liability Company, ITW Welding Produtos Para Solgdagem Ltda., ITW Welding Singapore Pte. Ltd., ITW de France, ITW do Brasil Industrial e Comercial Ltda., Illinois Tool Works Chile Limitada, Illinois Tool Works ITW Nederland B.V., Illinois Tool Works Inc., Impar Comercio E Representacoes Ltda., Industrie Plastic Elsasser GmbH, Inmobiliaria Cit. S.A. de C.F., Innova Temperlite Servicios S.A. de C.V., Innovacion y Transformacion Automotriz S.A. de C.V., Instron Brasil Equipamentos Cientificos Ltda., Instron Foreign Sales Corp. Limited, Instron France S.A.S., Instron GmbH, Instron Japan Company Ltd., Instron Korea LLC, Instron Shanghai Ltd., Instron Thailand Limited, International Leasing Company LLC, Isolenge - ITW Sistemas de Isolamento Termico Ltda., Itw Spraytec, KCPL Mauritius Holdings, Kester, Kleinmann GmbH, Krafft S.L., Loma Systems, Loma Systems BV, Loma Systems Canada Inc., Loma Systems sro, Lombard Pressings Limited, Lumex Inc., Lys Fusion Poland Sp. z.o.o., M&C Specialties Co., MAGNAFLUX GmbH, MEHB Holdings Limited, MGHG Property LLC, MTS 2 LLC., MTS 3 LLC., MTS China Holdings LLC, MTS Europe Holdings LLC, MTS Holdings France S.a.r.l., MTS Japan Ltd.., MTS Korea Inc.., MTS Systems China Co. Ltd., MTS Systems Corporation, MTS Systems Danmark ApS., MTS Systems Europe B.V., MTS Systems Finance C.V.., MTS Systems Germany GmbH, MTS Systems Holding B.V.., MTS Systems Hong Kong Incorporated, MTS Systems Limited, MTS Systems Norden Aktiebolag, MTS Systems S.r.l, MTS Systems., MTS Systems.., MTS Sytems Do Brazil, MTS Testing Solutions India Private Limited., MTS Testing Systems Canada Ltd., Manufacturing Avancee S.A., Meritex Technology Suzhou Co. Ltd., Meurer Verpackungssysteme GmbH, Miller Electric Mfg. LLC, Miller Insurance Ltd., NDT Holding LLC, NOVADAN APS, North Star Imaging Inc., Nova Chimica S.r.l., Orbitalum Tools GmbH, PENTA-91 OOO, PR. A. I. Srl, PT ITW Construction Products Indonesia, Pacific Concept Industries Limited Enping, Panreac Quimica S.L., Paslode Fasteners Shanghai Co. Ltd., Peerless Machinery Corp., Polyrey, Premark FEG L.L.C., Premark HII Holdings LLC, Premark International, Premark International LLC, Prolex Sociedad Anonima, QSA Global Inc., Quimica Industrial Mediterranea S.L., R&D Engineering A/S., R&D Prague s.r.o., R&D Steel ApS., R&D Test Systems A/S., R&D Tools and Structures A/S., RDGDK Engineering Private Limited, Ramset Fasteners Hong Kong Ltd., Rapid Cook LLC, Refrigeration France, S.E.E. Sistemas Industria E Comercio Ltda., ST Mexico Holdings LLC, Sealant Systems International Inc., Sentinel Asia Yuhan Hoesa, Shanghai ITW Plastic & Metal Co. Ltd, Simco Japan Inc., Simco Nederland B.V., Societe de Prospection et dInventions Techniques SPIT, Speedline Holdings I Inc., Speedline Holdings I LLC, Speedline Technologies GmbH, Speedline Technologies Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Speedline Technologies Mexico Services S. de R.L. de C.V., Stokvis Celix Portugal Unipessoal LDA, Stokvis Danmark ApS, Stokvis Holdings S.A.R.L., Stokvis Promi s.r.o, Stokvis Prostick Tapes Private Limited, Stokvis Tapes B.V., Stokvis Tapes Benelux B.V., Stokvis Tapes Deutschland GmbH, Stokvis Tapes France, Stokvis Tapes Hong Kong Co. Limited, Stokvis Tapes Italia s.r.l., Stokvis Tapes Limited, Stokvis Tapes Limited Liability Company, Stokvis Tapes Norge AS, Stokvis Tapes Oy, Stokvis Tapes Polska Sp Z.O.O., Stokvis Tapes Shanghai Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes Sverige AB, Stokvis Tapes Taiwan Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes Tianjin Co. Ltd., Stolvis Holdings II S.A.R.L., Subsidiaries, Technopack Industria Comercio Consultoria e Representacoes Ltda., Teknek China Limited, Teknek Japan Limited, Teksaleco Ltd., The Miller Group Ltd, Thirode Grandes Cuisines Poligny, Tien Tai Electrode Co. Ltd., Tien Tai Electrode Kunshan Co. Ltd., Unichemicals Industria e Comercio Ltda., VR-Leasing Sarita GmbH & Co. Immobilien KG, VS European Holdco BV, Valeron Strength Films B.V., Veneta Decalcogomme S.r.l., Versachem Chile S.A., Vesta, Vesta Global Limited, Vesta Guangzhou Catering Equipment Co. Ltd, Viltronics Soltec, Vitronics Soltec B.V., Wachs Canada Ltd., Wachs Subsea LLC, Weigh-Tronix Canada ULC, Weigh-Tronix UK Limited, Wilsonart International Holdings LLC, Wynn Oil South Africa Pty Ltd., Wynn's Automotive France, Wynn's Belgium BVBA, Wynn's Italia Srl, Wynn's Mekuba India Pvt Ltd, and Zip-Pak International B.V.. Read More TD SYNNEX Corporation operates as a distributor and solutions aggregator for the information technology (IT) ecosystem. The company offers personal computing devices and peripherals, mobile phones and accessories, printers, supplies, and endpoint technology software; and data center technologies, such as hybrid cloud, security, storage, networking, servers, technology software, and converged and hyper-converged infrastructure, as well as computing components. It also provides systems design and rack integration, build-to-order, and configure-to-order assembly; and thermal testing, power-draw testing, burn-in, and quality and logistics support. In addition, the company offers outsourced fulfilment, virtual distribution, and direct ship to end-users; shipping documents generation, multi-level serial number tracking, and configured products and online order and shipment tracking, as well as turn-key logistics solutions. Further, it provides public cloud solutions in productivity and collaboration, IaaS, or Infrastructure as a Service, PaaS, or Platform as a Service, SaaS, or Software as a Service, security, mobility, IoT, and other hybrid solutions. Additionally, the company offers online services; provides net terms, third party leasing, floor plan financing, and letters-of-credit backed financing and arrangement; and leases products and provides device-as-a-service, as well as offers direct mail, external media advertising, reseller product training, targeted telemarketing campaigns, national and regional trade shows, trade groups, database analysis, print on demand services, and web-based marketing. It serves value-added resellers, corporate resellers, government resellers, system integrators, direct marketers, retailers, and managed service providers. The company was formerly known as SYNNEX Corporation and changed its name to TD SYNNEX Corporation in September 2021. TD SYNNEX Corporation was incorporated in 1980 and is headquartered in Fremont, California. The following companies are subsidiares of Zoetis: Abaxis, Abaxis Asia Limited, Abaxis Europe GmbH, Abaxis Inc., Abaxis South East Europe d. o.o., Abaxis UK Limited, Alpharma Animal Health Company, Alpharma Animal Health Hong Kong Co. Limited, Alpharma Bermuda LLC, Alpharma Euro Holdings LLC, Alpharma Holdings Barbados SRL, Alpharma LLC, Alpharma Luxembourg S.A.R.L. y Compania Limitada, Alpharma do Brasil Ltda., Bovigen, Catapult Genetics Pty Ltd, Continental Farmaceutica SPRL, Cross Vetpharm Group Limited, Embrex LLC, Ethos Diagnostic Science, Fish Vet Group, Fish Vet Group Limited, Jilin Zoetis Guoyuan Animal Health Co. Ltd., Jorox Pty, King Animal Health, Microtek International Inc, Mikjan Corporation, Nexvet, Nexvet Australia Pty Ltd, PAH 7V6 Holding Limited, PAH CHHK Holding B.V., PAH India Holdco LLC, PAH India Holding 1 B.V., PAH Netherlands 2 B.V., PAH Oceania B.V., PAH Spain S.L., PHARMAQ, PT Zoetis Animalhealth Indonesia, Performance Livestock Analytics, Performance Livestock Analytics Inc., Pharmaq AS Chile Limitada, Pharmaq AS Service SpA, Pharmaq AS., Pharmaq Analytiq AS, Pharmaq Analytiq Limited, Pharmaq Analytiq SpA, Pharmaq Fishteq AS, Pharmaq Fishteq SpA, Pharmaq Ltd, Pharmaq Spain Aqua SL, Pharmaq Veterinar Ecza Deposu ve su Urunleri Ticaret Ltd Ski, Pharmaq Vietnam Company Limited, Phoenix Central Laboratory for Veterinarians Inc., Phoenix Lab, Platinum Performance, Platinum Performance Inc., Pumpkin Holdings Inc., Pumpkin Insurance Services Inc., Scandinavian Micro Biodevices, Smartbow GmbH, Smartbow RUS OOO, Synbiotics Corporation, Synbiotics LLC, Vetnex Animal Health Ltd, Virtual Recall, Virtual Recall Limited, Virtual Recall Pty Ltd, ZNLabs, ZNLabs LLC, ZOETISECUADOR Cia. Ltda., Zoetis Animal Health ApS, Zoetis Argentina S.R.L., Zoetis Australia Pty Ltd, Zoetis Australia Research & Manufacturing Pty Ltd, Zoetis B.V., Zoetis Belgium S.A., Zoetis Biopharmaceutical Co. Ltd, Zoetis Broomhill IP Limited, Zoetis Broomhill Property Limited, Zoetis C.A., Zoetis Canada Inc., Zoetis Colombia S.A.S., Zoetis Costa Rica S.R.L., Zoetis Denmark ApS, Zoetis Deutschland GmbH, Zoetis Egypt LLC, Zoetis Egypt Pharmaceuticals LLC, Zoetis Egypt Trading LLC, Zoetis Enterprise Management Shanghai Co. Ltd., Zoetis Finland Oy, Zoetis France, Zoetis Hayvan Sagligi Ltd. Sti., Zoetis Hellas S.A., Zoetis Holdings LLC, Zoetis Hungary Kft., Zoetis Import Egypt LLC, Zoetis India Limited, Zoetis Industria de Produtos Veterinarios Ltda., Zoetis International Holdings B.V., Zoetis Israel Holding B.V., Zoetis Italia S.r.l., Zoetis Japan K.K., Zoetis Korea Ltd., Zoetis LLC, Zoetis Luxembourg Holding S.a r.l., Zoetis Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Zoetis Manufacturing & Research Spain S.L., Zoetis Manufacturing Italia S.R.L., Zoetis Medolla Manufacturing S.R.L., Zoetis Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Zoetis Netherlands 1 B.V., Zoetis Netherlands 3 B.V., Zoetis Netherlands 4 B.V., Zoetis Netherlands 5 B.V., Zoetis New Zealand Limited, Zoetis OOO, Zoetis Overseas Holding B.V., Zoetis Overseas Services Inc., Zoetis Panama S. de R.L., Zoetis Pharmaceutical Research Private Limited, Zoetis Philippines Inc., Zoetis Polska sp. z o.o, Zoetis Portugal Lda., Zoetis Products Inc., Zoetis Reference Laboratories China Co. Ltd., Zoetis Reference Labs LLC, Zoetis Romania SRL, Zoetis S.R.L., Zoetis Salud Animal de Bolivia S.A., Zoetis Schweiz GmbH, Zoetis Services LLC, Zoetis Singapore Pte. Ltd., Zoetis South Africa Pty Ltd., Zoetis Spain S.L., Zoetis Subsidiary Holdings Inc., Zoetis Suzhou Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Zoetis Sweden AB, Zoetis Taiwan Limited, Zoetis Thailand Limited, Zoetis Treasury Center BV, Zoetis UK Limited, Zoetis US LLC, Zoetis Ukraine LLC, Zoetis Vietnam Limited Liability Company, Zoetis WLC LLC, Zoetis Weesp B.V., Zoetis Yantai Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Zoetis de Chile S.A., Zoetis de Uruguay S.R.L., Zoetis Osterreich GmbH, and Zoetis Ceska republika s.r.o.. Read More Constellation Brands (NYSE:STZ) pays an annual dividend of $3.56 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 1.52%. 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 43.36%. This payout ratio is at a healthy, sustainable level, below 75%. Based on earnings estimates, STZ will have a dividend payout ratio of 26.69% next year. This indicates that the company will be able to sustain or increase its dividend. Read our dividend analysis for STZ. Bill Ford, great-grandson of the founder of Ford Motor Co., asked his hourly and salaried workers this week to stay calm during this uncertain time, the Detroit Free Press has learned. Fewer than 72 hours after UAW President Shawn Fain expanded the union's strike to General Motors and Stellantis, excluding Ford from the latest punishing strike targets at parts warehouses, Bill Ford, executive chair of the company, hosted a town hall for some 30,000 employees globally. Employees included salaried and hourly workers for the first time since the contract expired Sept. 14. "I'm very grateful to all our employees for everything they've done and continue to do for our company," Ford said Monday, according to a transcript of the town hall obtained by the Free Press. "What does anger me is the behavior of the politicians. Honestly, it's a circus we don't need because it doesn't help our employees and it doesn't help our company." More UAW coverage: Strike expands to more Ford, GM plants, impacting 7,000 additional workers Ford Motor Co. Executive Chairman Bill Ford Jr. in the Michigan Central Station in Detroit's Corktown neighborhood. Ford purchased the long-vacant train station with plans to renovate and make it a hub of a campus for advanced automotive technology. In the early days, politicians including Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist, U.S. Sens. Gary Peters and Bernie Sanders, as well as U.S. Reps. Rashida Tlaib, Elissa Slotkin and Debbie Dingell showed up publicly to support the striking UAW. Ford's criticism about politicians came prior to President Joe Biden walking the picket line at General Motors Willow Run Redistribution Center in Van Buren Township on Tuesday and former President Donald Trump visiting a nonunion automotive parts supplier in Clinton Township on Wednesday. Ford employs approximately 57,000 UAW members. A new contract will cover an estimated 150,000 Detroit Three factory workers. "Look, we're trying to build a great company for the next 100 years, and they're only worried about their next election," Ford told employees. "If politicians really wanted to help, they would quietly try and bring us together. Please try and tune out all this, the noise both in the past week and in the coming weeks, because what's important is we keep our eye on building a great company for our future." Story continues Ford has hosted both Biden and Trump at its factories within the past two years. "You know, I'm only the fourth member of my family to be in my position at the company in over 120 years," Ford said. "And I've always taken the long view. I'm trying to build a great company for my children and my grandchildren. But it's not just my children and grandchildren. It's all of yours as well. We have so many multigenerational families here at Ford who depend on us to do the right thing for the future, and we will." He continued: "We'll get through this like we have every other difficult time that we've had in 120 years. And we'll do it by focusing on the best interests of all our employees." United Auto Workers members strike at the Ford Michigan Assembly Plant on Sept. 16, 2023, in Wayne, Michigan. This is the first time in history that the UAW is striking all three of the Detroit Three automakers, Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis, at the same time. Bill Ford, who has been at the negotiating table for every UAW contract talk since 1982, the company confirmed, has provided calming reassurance in troubled times, most recently during the COVID-19 pandemic. He tamped down the idea that the automaker would hold a grudge after the contentious talks eventually conclude. "We'll get through this. And no, I don't think it'll hurt our relationship with our employees in the long run. In fact, maybe it'll bring us all together when we come out on the other side. And that's what I'm hopeful for," Ford said. "We're different than the other companies. Our employees love Ford Motor Company. They love what we stand for. And they're proud to work for Ford. And that's the way I feel." Ford CEO Jim Farley, the grandson of a Ford autoworker, feels the same way, Ford said. "And that's the way our employees in our plant feel," he said. "I'm not sure that's always true at other companies." Leonard Green, 43, of Belleville, strikes for better wages outside the Michigan Assembly Plant on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023. "I love Ford," he said. "We just want to be able to live." Bill Ford and Farley have been monitoring negotiations and hoping to avoid additional strikes at company properties. The two executives have been in regular contact with the White House and the office of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer about the strike, a source with firsthand knowledge but not authorized to speak publicly on the issue told the Free Press on Thursday. Ford, which employs the most hourly autoworkers in the U.S. and builds all its bestselling full-size trucks stateside, was the first submit to submit an offer and counteroffers. Automakers and Wall Street have expressed concern about potential damage to the overall economy if the strike continues much longer. Analysts have speculated that foreign automakers including Toyota could add customers if production at the Detroit Three, and dealer repair shops serving them, are disrupted for any period of time. The UAW has said it is using an aggressive strategy that forces automakers to bring strong offers to the bargaining table. Delay creates chaos and uncertainty, the UAW has warned. On Sept. 22, Fain announced on Facebook Live the second round of strike targets. No one knows whether he'll do the same Friday. More: Experts: Shawn Fain's biting style is creating a moment, just like another UAW labor icon More: Ford's police cars will create unique headache for automaker if strike happens Contact Phoebe Wall Howard: 313-618-1034 or phoward@freepress.com. Follow her on X (formerly known as Twitter) @phoebesaid. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Bill Ford gets angry at politicians during UAW strike: 'It's a circus' 15 hours ago The digital face of Real Estate, your best bets this year Traditional businesses typically become stagnant or outright 'boring' due to a combination of positive and negative factors. On the positive side, stagnation and stability come from the 'if it's not broken, don't fix it' attitude of doing things the same as before just because they've been working. However, on the negative side, not adopting technological advances places a tight cap on the potential growth of the space. Today, real estate can be argued to have fallen into this category since it is a business that has been done virtually Read Article Wells Fargo & Company is a multinational financial services company that has established itself as a prominent player in the global financial industry. Founded in 1852 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, Wells Fargo operates in 35 countries and serves over 70 million customers worldwide. Its rich history and successful mergers and acquisitions have contributed to its significant global presence. As a comprehensive financial services provider, Wells Fargo offers a wide range of banking, investment, mortgage, and consumer financial services. The company's mission is to satisfy its customers' financial needs and help them succeed financially. Wells Fargo aims to achieve this by providing exceptional service, acting with integrity, fostering diversity and inclusion, and contributing positively to the communities it serves. Wells Fargo's extensive product and service portfolio caters to various market segments. The company serves individual consumers, small businesses, corporations, and institutional investors. Its key customers encompass a broad spectrum, ranging from everyday banking customers to high-net-worth individuals and large corporations. Wells Fargo aims to meet the diverse financial needs of its customers through personalized solutions and innovative offerings. The company has achieved several notable milestones and received recognition for its contributions to the financial industry. Wells Fargo has been ranked as one of the "Big Four Banks" in the United States, alongside JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, and Citigroup. It is also recognized as one of the largest banks in the country by total assets, deposits, and market capitalization. Wells Fargo's commitment to delivering quality financial services has earned it a position among the most valuable bank brands. Wells Fargo is led by an experienced and capable management team that guides the company's operations and strategic direction. The leadership team consists of individuals with diverse backgrounds and extensive finance, banking, technology, risk management, and customer service expertise. The Chief Executive Officer and President of Wells Fargo is Charles W. Scharf, who brings a wealth of experience in the financial industry. The management team also includes key executives such as Michael J. Santomassimo as the Chief Financial Officer and Scott Powell as the Chief Operating Officer. Each management team member contributes their professional background, accomplishments, and expertise to ensure the company's success. Wells Fargo has demonstrated consistent financial performance over the years, driven by its diverse business segments and strategic initiatives. The company has reported steady revenue growth, reflecting its ability to attract and retain a large customer base. Wells Fargo's revenue metrics indicate its success in generating income through its various financial services and product offerings. Earnings metrics illustrate the company's profitability and stability. Wells Fargo's focus on prudent risk management practices and diversified revenue streams contributes to its ability to generate sustainable earnings. Profit margin metrics showcase the efficiency of Wells Fargo's operations. The company's ability to manage costs effectively while generating revenue is key to maintaining healthy profit margins. Debt levels play a significant role in evaluating the company's financial position. Wells Fargo's management strives to maintain a conservative approach to managing debt, ensuring a strong balance sheet and financial stability. Wells Fargo's valuation metrics are influenced by a range of factors, including its market position, financial performance, growth prospects, risk profile, and investor sentiment. Factors driving Wells Fargo's valuation include its brand recognition, customer base, diversified business segments, and ability to generate consistent earnings. Changes in investor sentiment, market conditions, and regulatory developments can also impact the company's valuation over time. Investors closely monitor Wells Fargo's stock performance, assessing its ability to deliver value over the long term. The stock has had issues in the past due to news or events that have affected the company's share price, such as regulatory actions, the global pandemic, and strategic initiatives. These factors should be considered in analyzing its market performance. Wells Fargo operates in the highly competitive financial services industry, which is subject to evolving regulatory frameworks and technological advancements. Understanding the broader industry in which the company operates is crucial to assessing its competitive positioning. Wells Fargo competes with other major banks and financial institutions domestically and internationally. The company leverages its brand recognition, extensive product and service offerings, customer relationships, and technological capabilities to gain a competitive advantage. However, it also faces challenges such as regulatory compliance, changing customer preferences, and disruptive market forces. Wells Fargo has identified several growth opportunities within its diverse business segments. The company aims to deepen relationships with existing customers, attract new customers and expand its presence in key markets. In consumer banking, Wells Fargo focuses on enhancing digital capabilities, improving customer experience, and providing innovative solutions to meet evolving customer needs. The company seeks to leverage its strong brand and customer base to drive growth and increase customer loyalty. In wealth and investment management, Wells Fargo aims to capitalize on the growing demand for comprehensive financial planning and advisory services. The company's expertise in wealth management positions it well to capture opportunities in an increasingly complex investment landscape. As with any financial institution, Wells Fargo faces various risks and challenges. It is important to comprehensively analyze potential risks and challenges to understand their potential impact on the company's performance. Factors such as regulatory changes, cybersecurity threats, economic downturns, and reputational risks pose challenges to Wells Fargo's operations. The company has implemented robust risk management strategies, invested in technology and security measures, and enhanced compliance frameworks to mitigate these risks. Ongoing efforts to prioritize ethical conduct, transparency, and stakeholder trust are integral to managing risks effectively. Jacobs Solutions Inc. provides consulting, technical, scientific, and project delivery services for the government and private sectors in the United States, Europe, Canada, India, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, South America, Mexico, the Middle East, and Africa. It operates through three segments: Critical Mission Solutions, People & Places Solutions, and PA Consulting. The company offers cybersecurity, data analytics, systems and software application integration and consulting, enterprise and mission IT, engineering and design, nuclear, enterprise level operations and maintenance services; software development, testing, mission integration, program management, research, development, test, evaluation services, training, and environmental remediation services; and other technical consulting solutions, as well as construction management services. It also provides consulting services for consumer and manufacturing, defense and security, energy and utilities, financial services, government, health and life sciences, and transport industries. The company was founded in 1947 and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas. The Boeing Company is the worlds largest manufacturer of airplanes and commands more than 50% of the market in some channels and categories. The company and its family of subsidiaries design, develops, manufacture, sell, service, and supports commercial jetliners, military aircraft, satellites, missile defense, human space flight, and related services worldwide. The company operates through four segments including Commercial Airplanes; Defense, Space & Security; Global Services; and Boeing Capital providing products and services to end-users in 150 countries. Boeing got its start in 1910 when William E. Boeing developed a love for aircraft. Soon after he takes his first plane ride which leads him to build a hangar and begin construction of his first plane. The onset of WWI helped spur the companys growth but business was cut drastically in its wake. The start of WWII was another milestone for the company and one that led to its current position of dominance. The company was incorporated in 1916 and is based in Chicago, Illinois. Boeing employs over 140,000 people in 65 countries making it one of the most diverse employers on the planet. The Commercial Airplanes segment is built around the iconic 7-series which includes the 737, 747, and 787. The segment provides commercial jet aircraft for passenger and cargo requirements, as well as fleet support services for regional, national, and international air carriers and logistics and freight companies. In terms of global volume, the company estimates about 90% of all air freight is carried aboard one of its jets. This segment also includes the Dreamliner family of planes. The Dreamliner is a game-changing airplane for many carriers as it opens up the potential for new one-stop destinations because of its capacity and range. The Defense, Space & Security segment develops and manufactures a range of systems including manned and unmanned aircraft, missiles, missile defense systems, satellites, communications equipment, and intelligence systems for governments. Among the many iconic brands within this segment are the AH-64 Apache, Air Force One, B-52, C-17 Globemaster, Chinook, F/A-18, and the V-22 Osprey VTOL aircraft used by the Marines. The Global Services segment offers a range of products and services that include supply chain and logistics management, engineering, maintenance, upgrades, conversions, spare parts, pilot and maintenance training, technical and maintenance documents, and data analytics to its commercial and defense customers. Boeing is also a leader in innovation, leveraging its many decades and avenues of experience to further aerospace and defense technology. Among the many innovations is the MQ-25 Stingray which will be the worlds first autonomous aircraft. The Stingray is only one of many areas of research that also include drones and undersea vehicles. 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. 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. IShares are index funds that are bought and sold like common stocks on national securities exchanges as well as certain foreign exchanges. iShares are attractive because of their relatively low cost, tax efficiency and trading flexibility. Investors can purchase and sell shares through any brokerage firm, financial advisor, or online broker, and hold the funds in any type of brokerage account. The following companies are subsidiares of Becton, Dickinson and Company: Accuri Cytometers, Accuri Cytometers Inc., Alverix Inc, Alverix Inc., Atto Bioscience Inc, BD Holding S. de R.L. de C.V., BD Infection Prevention BV, BD Kiestra BV, BD Kiestra Total Lab Automation, BD Rapid Diagnostic (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., BD San Luis Potosi S.A. de C.V., BD Switzerland Sarl, BD Ventures LLC, BD West Africa Limited, BDX INO LLC, Bard (Thailand) Limited, Bard ASDI Inc., Bard Access Systems Inc., Bard Acquisition Sub Inc., Bard Australia Pty. 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Read More 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. Bitcoin was trading above US$26,300 Thursday morning in Asia after briefly breaching US$26,800 Wednesday evening. Ether also made up some ground, rising above the US$1,600 resistance level before falling back to just below it. Other top 10 non-stablecoin cryptocurrencies traded mixed, with the Open Networks (TON) Toncoin leading the winners. U.S. stock futures were up after Wall Street closed mixed on Wednesday. Investors are digesting a 16-year high in U.S. 10-year treasury yields as well as a potential debt-driven government shutdown in October. SEC delays another spot Bitcoin ETF decision Bitcoin gained 0.56% to US$26,354.64 in the 24 hours to 07:40 a.m. in Hong Kong but still held a weekly loss of 2.87%, according to CoinMarketCap data. The worlds largest cryptocurrency on Wednesday night briefly rose above US$26,800 for the first time in the past seven days, but soon retreated to around US$26,300. The U.S. dollar index (DXY), which measures the greenback against a basket of other major fiat currencies, reached a ten-month high of 106.84 on Thursday. A high DXY has been a bearish signal for cryptos and the S&P 500 alike, blockchain intelligence firm Santiment said Thursday on X (previously Twitter). However, Bitcoin has held up well despite the rise in the U.S. dollar. That may indicate a breakout could come once the DXY settles down, Santiment added. The #Dollar has crept up to its highest level since last November. Particularly since 2021, this has been a #bearish signal for #crypto and the #SP500. However, $BTC has held up well, which may indicate a breakout could come once the $DXY settles down. https://t.co/zplpYJjSkf pic.twitter.com/iTyof07MNm Santiment (@santimentfeed) September 27, 2023 Along with Bitcoin, Ether edged up 0.31% to US$1,597.56 over the past 24 hours but is trading 1.55% lower for the week. The token also hit a seven-day high of US$1,631.91 on Wednesday evening. Story continues The price moves in the crypto market yesterday were driven by macro markets, said Justin dAnethan, head of Asia-Pacific business development at Belgium-based crypto market maker Keyrock. Overnight Asia time, American investors started the day full of optimism, attempting to reverse this weeks pullback only to turn risk-off again in the second half of the day and close in the red, dAnethan said. While traditional markets suffered, crypto actually outperformed, rising and then pulling back but only to return to a neutral position. BTC and ETH are essentially flat or timidly up on the session, dAnethan added. Other top 10 non-stablecoin cryptocurrencies traded mixed for the past 24 hours. Toncoin, the native token of TON, led the winners with a 2.21% increase to US$2.17, but was still down 9.96% for the week. Polkadots DOT token led the losers, edging 0.56% lower to US$3.99 for a 3.63% weekly loss. On the regulatory front, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Tuesday delayed a decision on the spot Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) application made by Cathie Woods Ark Investment Management and Swiss digital asset brokerage 21Shares. The SEC was scheduled to make a decision by November 11 but it has now pushed that date back to January 10. The agency has delayed its decision multiple times on ETF applications from not only Ark and 21Shares, but also BlackRock, WisdomTree and Invesco Galaxy. The delay was made after four Congress members urged the SEC to approve pending spot Bitcoin ETF applications. At a Wednesday Congress hearing, SEC Chair Gary Gensler was questioned by multiple Congress members about his agencys aggressive stance on crypto assets. But he stuck to the claim that most cryptos other than Bitcoin should be classified as securities and regulated by the SEC. Despite the pressure from Congress, Markus Thielen, head of research and strategy at digital asset service platform Matrixport, wrote in an emailed comment that Gensler refused to release any details where the SEC stands in the (spot Bitcoin ETF) application process and rather criticised industry practices. This caused Bitcoin prices to retrace their rally attempt (yesterday). On the subject of Genslers speech, Keyrocks dAnethan said it feels like American regulators are pushed more and more to take some action and I choose to see that as bullish: its a question of when theyll give in, not if. The total crypto market capitalization edged up 0.35% in the past 24 hours to US$1.05 trillion, while trading volume rose 20.25% to US$27.26 billion. Wall Street facing possible government shutdown Image: Getty Images U.S. stock futures were higher as of 09:50 a.m. in Hong Kong. The Nasdaq futures index led the gains with a 0.21% increase. Wall Street closed mixed Wednesday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average logged losses, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite edged higher. Major Asian stock indexes were mixed on Tuesday morning. Chinas Shanghai Composite and South Koreas Kospi booked gains, while Hong Kongs Hang Seng and Japans Nikkei 225 dipped. The U.S. government could partially shut down as early as Sunday as Congress struggles to pass a funding bill to support the operations through Nov. 17. If Congress fails to pass the bill by the end of September, a lapse in government funding could impact non-essential government functions and payment to government employees. The U.S. government has had three partial shutdowns due to funding lapses in the past decade. More likely than not, we are going to see a government shutdown, Emerson Sprick, senior economic analyst at U.S.-based think tank the Bipartisan Policy Center, told CNBC on Wednesday. The question is for how long How long it lasts has a real impact on American households, to a greater extent than just if it happens or not. About 1.3 million active-duty military and 2 million civilian federal employees would go without pay for the duration of any shutdown, Bloomberg reported Wednesday. The more a shutdown lasts, the more it goes beyond federal employees, Goldman Sachs analyst Alec Phillips told Bloomberg. The longer it goes on, the indirect impact becomes larger. Beyond government shutdown concerns, the U.S. stock market is also feeling the pressure of rising oil prices and U.S. treasury yields. The global oil price benchmark Brent crude finished at US$96.55 on Wednesday, its highest close since November 2022. The U.S. 10-year treasury yields settled at 4.625%, the highest close since October 2007. On the inflation front, Minneapolis Federal Reserve President Neel Kashkari told CNBC on Wednesday he was unsure if the current U.S. interest rate of between 5.25% and 5.50% is sufficiently restrictive to bring the annual inflation rate below the Feds long-term goal of 2%. Kashkari said further hikes cannot be ruled out given the dynamics of the reopening of the economy. The Fed meets on Nov. 1 to make its next decision on interest rates. The CME FedWatch Tool predicts a 77.6% chance of no interest rate hike in November, down from 82.5% on Wednesday. It also gives a 57.8% chance of another pause in December, down from 65.8% on Wednesday. Investors now await the U.S. second-quarter personal consumption expenditure price index (PCE) on Thursday, which will provide further insights into inflation. Several Federal Reserve officials including Fed Chair Jerome Powell will also give speeches on Thursday. (Updates with equity section.) If imitation is flattery, BlackRock Inc.s latest equity income launch is a tribute to competing asset management giant JPMorgan Chase & Co.s wildly successful options-writing exchange-traded fund. The BlackRock Advantage Large Cap Income ETF (BALI), launched Sept. 28, tracks dividend paying companies and offers investors exposure to income from call options on the S&P 500, according to a press release. The fund also takes a page from the options writing playbook of the JPMorgan Equity premium Income ETF (JEPI), which was the reigning bond fund last year. JPMorgan's blockbuster product has now attracted nearly $30 billion in assets since May 2020, and brought in over $16 billion in the past year alone. JEPI is the envy of the industry because of how successful its been, said Todd Sohn, ETF analyst at Strategas Securities. BlackRock isnt the only firm looking to JEPIs success as inspiration. Goldman Sachs announced plans to launch two option writing fixed-income strategies in Junethe Goldman Sachs U.S. Equity Premium Income ETF and the Goldman Sachs U.S. Tech Index Equity Premium Income ETFwhich have yet to launch. BlackRocks BALI also takes a cue from JEPI on fees, both charging 0.35%. Most investors who want this type of strategy are going to gravitate towards the more established fundfor now, said etf.com analyst Sumit Roy. That said, longer-term, BALI could differentiate itself. The fund is managed by the Raffaele Savi, the Global Head of BlackRock Systematic, according to the release. BALI Eyes JEPIs Reign Over Income To be sure, there are differences in the two funds. BlackRocks BALI is investing in U.S. dividend paying stocks, while JEPIs biggest holding, Amazon, does not pay investors dividends. Differences in strategy, as well as portfolio management decisions, could also cause a divergence in performance. If the BlackRock ETF can outperform, investors will likely take notice, Roy said. Story continues BALI is also structured to be able to hold futures contracts on a large cap equity index to offset the potential cap on gains from the ETFs covered call positions, according to analyst Aniket Ullal of CFRA Research. JEPI is also focused on low volatility stocks compared to BlackRocks latest launch, he said. Even though this category has grown a lot, there is probably still room for both players, said Ullal. I don't think it's a case of one is just going to take market share from the otherthe whole category could grow. Contact Lucy Brewster at lucy.brewster@etf.com. Permalink | Copyright 2023 etf.com. All rights reserved Today we're going to take a look at the well-established Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F). The company's stock received a lot of attention from a substantial price movement on the NYSE over the last few months, increasing to US$15.35 at one point, and dropping to the lows of US$11.75. Some share price movements can give investors a better opportunity to enter into the stock, and potentially buy at a lower price. A question to answer is whether Ford Motor's current trading price of US$12.39 reflective of the actual value of the large-cap? Or is it currently undervalued, providing us with the opportunity to buy? Lets take a look at Ford Motors outlook and value based on the most recent financial data to see if there are any catalysts for a price change. Check out our latest analysis for Ford Motor Is Ford Motor Still Cheap? The stock is currently trading at US$12.39 on the share market, which means it is overvalued by 22% compared to my intrinsic value of $10.15. This means that the opportunity to buy Ford Motor at a good price has disappeared! If you like the stock, you may want to keep an eye out for a potential price decline in the future. Since Ford Motors share price is quite volatile, this could mean it can sink lower (or rise even further) in the future, giving us another chance to invest. This is based on its high beta, which is a good indicator for how much the stock moves relative to the rest of the market. What does the future of Ford Motor look like? Future outlook is an important aspect when youre looking at buying a stock, especially if you are an investor looking for growth in your portfolio. Buying a great company with a robust outlook at a cheap price is always a good investment, so lets also take a look at the company's future expectations. Ford Motor's earnings over the next few years are expected to increase by 79%, indicating a highly optimistic future ahead. This should lead to more robust cash flows, feeding into a higher share value. Story continues What This Means For You Are you a shareholder? It seems like the market has well and truly priced in Fs positive outlook, with shares trading above its fair value. However, this brings up another question is now the right time to sell? If you believe F should trade below its current price, selling high and buying it back up again when its price falls towards its real value can be profitable. But before you make this decision, take a look at whether its fundamentals have changed. Are you a potential investor? If youve been keeping tabs on F for some time, now may not be the best time to enter into the stock. The price has surpassed its true value, which means theres no upside from mispricing. However, the optimistic prospect is encouraging for F, which means its worth diving deeper into other factors in order to take advantage of the next price drop. If you'd like to know more about Ford Motor as a business, it's important to be aware of any risks it's facing. Every company has risks, and we've spotted 3 warning signs for Ford Motor (of which 1 is significant!) you should know about. If you are no longer interested in Ford Motor, you can use our free platform to see our list of over 50 other stocks with a high growth potential. 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. A body representing rank-and-file garda has urged the Government to intervene to avert industrial action amid a deepening row over rosters. Gardai have threatened to withdraw their labour if the standoff with Garda Commissioner Drew Harris over the reimplementation of a pre-Covid roster system is not resolved. Members of the Garda Representative Association (GRA) are planning to decline to work voluntary overtime on the five Tuesdays in October, dates that include Halloween and Budget day. They have also vowed to continue to operate the current roster system of four days on and four days off when the old system is due to come back into effect on November 6. If there is no resolution, GRA members have said they will fully withdraw their labour on November 10. Mr Harris is trying to move from a roster based on gardai working four days on and four days off to six days on, with shorter shift times, and four days off. The move has been strongly resisted by the GRA. A meeting with Mr Harris, the GRA and three other associations that represent different Garda ranks is due to take place later on Thursday. GRA president Brendan OConnor urged the Government to intervene as he called for common sense to prevail. He said many members felt withdrawing labour was the only option left to them. Unfortunately we have found ourselves in a situation where the disaffection and discontent among our members is so great, you see members who are very much committed to the organisation that are so despondent that they feel they have no other course of action, so its very unfortunate, he told RTE Radio One. Mr OConnor added: Common sense has to prevail. We would be asking for the Government to intervene or someone else in the department and the organisation. Justice Minister Helen McEntee said the decisions on industrial action taken the a special delegates conference of the GRA on Wednesday were regrettable. Speaking in Brussels, the minister said: I think the facts are very clear here. Theres nobody and that means the Garda Commissioner nor the Garda associations who believes that either the current roster or the previous and incumbent roster is the right roster moving forward. We all want to negotiate a new roster that is suitable for the needs of the public today and that, of course, works for members of An Garda Siochana. The only way that that can be found is through negotiation. Talks are still ongoing. There will be a meeting today between the commissioner of An Garda Siochana with the four associations and its absolutely imperative that all four associations including the GRA are around the table for that discussion. The latest developments come after almost 99% of gardai who voted in a ballot organised by the GRA expressed no confidence in the commissioner two weeks ago. A meeting between the commissioner and GRA representatives on Tuesday ended without resolution. [September 27, 2023] Navigating the Future: Yodaplus's DocuTrade at the Forefront of the Trade Finance Evolution Tweet With DocuTrade, Yodaplus is seamlessly blending the rich legacy of trade finance with the boundless potential of the digital age MUMBAI, India, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The global trade finance sector, pivotal to international commerce, has long been anchored by traditional paper-based practices. From bills of lading to promissory notes, the tangible nature of these documents has been both a symbol of trust and at the same time, a source of inefficiency. In a world increasingly dictated by speed, efficiency, and environmental concerns, these age-old paper-bound practices have been a growing concern. In an era where global trade remains tethered to traditional paper-based practices, the need for digitization has never been more pressing. The United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) took a transformative step with the introduction of the Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR) in 2017. Designed to be a beacon for the digital evolution of trade documentation, MLETR offers a structured approach to transition from paper-based negotiable instruments to electronic formats, without compromising their legal sanctity or international credibility. Stepping into this evolving landscape, Yodaplus recently introduced DocuTrade a documentation solution optimized for today's digital age, yet deeply respectful of the legacy and intricacies of trade fnance. Aligned with UNCITRAL- MLETR's principles, DocuTrade not only streamlines trade operations but also champions the major tenets of MLETR: technology neutrality, functional equivalency, and cross-border recognition. DocuTrade simplifies the intricate process of trade documentation and also ensures that digital documents maintain the same legal standing as their paper equivalents. The result is a secure and efficient trade environment, empowering businesses to concentrate on growth. Nilesh Pathak, the BU Head of Blockchain at Yodaplus , sheds light on the solution's core objectives, "With DocuTrade, we aim to bridge the historical with the futuristic. The global trade finance industry stands at a crossroads, and we're dedicated to ensuring that the path to digital transformation is seamless, secure, and aligned with international standards." While MLETR sets forth a robust framework, its global adoption is on an upward trajectory. Leading jurisdictions like Bahrain, Singapore, and the Abu Dhabi Global Market have already embraced its guidelines. Now, economic powerhouses such as the UK, Germany, and France are making strides towards its implementation. The aftermath of the COVID pandemic has only accelerated the push towards digital solutions in trade finance. Amidst this sea change, platforms like DocuTrade are poised to be at the forefront, leading the digital transformation journey. About Yodaplus DocuTrade Yodaplus DocuTrade is a beacon of innovation in the global trade finance sector. By offering a meticulous digital solution that resonates with the UNCITRAL MLETR framework, DocuTrade aspires to redefine trade finance for the modern era. It embodies a commitment to innovation, security, and efficiency, making it an indispensable asset for businesses, banks, and trade finance stakeholders across the globe. Dive deeper into the future of trade finance at https://docutrade.yodaplus.com/ About Yodaplus Headquartered in Mumbai, Yodaplus is an esteemed IT service firm renowned for its excellence in digital transformation, blockchain technology, trade finance digitization, AI, and IoT. Led by Vishrut Srivastava, the company consistently delivers pioneering tech solutions that serve a global clientele, touching every corner from the US and UK to the UAE and Singapore. Visit: https://yodaplus.com/ to know more about Yodaplus. Press Contact Amit Pareek Senior Marketing Manager amitp@yodaplus.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/navigating-the-future-yodapluss-docutrade-at-the-forefront-of-the-trade-finance-evolution-301937634.html SOURCE Yodaplus Technologies [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 27, 2023] SCALE AI's AI for Healthcare Initiative : $21 million in investments supporting 9 AI projects for better healthcare in Canada Tweet MONTREAL, Sept. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - Today, SCALE AI took the stage at Canada's ALL IN event to announce investments of $21 million for nine artificial intelligence (AI) projects selected by SCALE AI as part of its AI for Healthcare Initiative to support hospital projects pioneering the deployment of AI solutions. This latest SCALE AI initiative promotes collaboration between hospitals and AI product and solutions providers across the country to innovate further and accelerate the deployment of AI in the Canadian healthcare network to improve operations, logistics and resource allocation. With this announcement, SCALE AI underlines the critical role of AI in transforming our Canadian healthcare network to offer better care for all Canadians. These projects are supported by funding provided to SCALE AI as part of the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy, through which the Government of Canada is investing in efforts to drive the adoption of artificial intelligence across Canada's economy and society. Led by and deployed into Canadian hospitals, the projects announced today including optimizing and forecasting for resource and workflow operations, patient care management and virtual triaging and queue management will help resolve complex challenges in Canadian healthcare. These technological advances will have tangible, measurable effects on hospital activities, notably by helping to improve the patient's journey and experience by streamlining the logistics, determining daily resource management, or reducing waiting times. The Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, Canada's Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, says: "AI for healthcare offers powerful new solutions to improve the daily lives of Canadian patients. Through the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy, SCALE AI is working with local AI experts to develop these solutions in partnership with local healthcare institutions and hospitals to ensure better data protection and a solid ethical framework for analyzing and processing information about patients and our healthcare system." Julien Billot, CEO, SCALE AI, explains: "SCALE AI is working with many partners to accelerate the rapid adoption and integration of AI in key sectors like healthcare. Through this initiative, AI ecosystem players and hospitals are mobilizing to meet today's public health challenges and to have a profound effect on healthcare in Canada." Helene Desmarais, Co-Chair of the Board of Directors, SCALE AI, adds: "In partnership with the entire ecosystem, SCALE AI continues to help develop AI in Canada, accelerate its integration into Canadian businesses and support the management and delivery of healthcare through AI. These projects are helping to find efficiencies and optimize limited resources to improve patient well-being." AI for Healthcare: 9 projects representing investments of $20.9 million To learn more about the projects, click here. ? AI-Driven Demand Forecasting for CIUSSS West-Central Logistics Optimization Partners: CIUSSS West-Central Montreal (CIUSSS-CCOMTL), IVADO Labs SCALE AI investment: $1.5 million Total investment: $2.3 million ? Developing the First Patient-Centric Care Management System for Oncology Partners: The Ottawa Hospital, The Princess Margaret Cancer Center, The Centre Hospitalier de l'Universite de Montreal, Gray Oncology Solutions, The Jewish General Hospital, The Programme Quebecois de Cancerologie, The Centre Integre de Sante et de Services Sociaux de Laval, The McGill University Health Centre (MUHC), The CIUSSS de l'Estrie - Sherbrooke, The Southlake Regional Health Centre, The Canadian Cancer Society SCALE AI investment: $1.9 million Total investment: $2.9 million ? Optimizing Emergency Department Resources with AI Decision Support Tool Partners: Unity Health Toronto (St. Joseph's Health Center, St. Michael's Hospital), Signal 1, Trillium Healthcare Partners, Grand River Hospital SCALE AI investment: $1.5 million Total investment: $3 million ? Emergency Dept AI-Enabled Virtual Triaging and Queue Management Application Partners: Humber River Health, Deloitte, MEDITECH Collaborative, Mackenzie Health SCALE AI investment: $1.5 million Total investment: $2.4 million ? AInceptionOptimizing Emergency Planning Partners: Centre hospitalier de l'Universite de Montreal (CHUM), Moov AI, CIUSSS Estrie - CHU Sherbrooke Scale AI investment: $1.5 million Total investment: $2.3 million ? AI-Based Decision Tool to Forecast, Optimize and Allocate Paramedic Resources Partners: Urgences-sante, Alberta Health Services Emergency Medical Services, Emergency Medical Care Incorporated, Airudi, McGill Clinical and Health Informatics SCALE AI investment: $1.5 million Total investment: $2.3 million ? AI-Driven Physician Scheduling Solution and Workflow Optimization Partners: Fraser Health Authority, Deloitte SCALE AI investment: $1.5 million Total investment: $2.2 million ? Resource Optimization Chart for Pediatric Intensive Care Partners: Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal Children's Hospital, IVADO Labs SCALE AI investment: $1.5 million Total investment: $1.8 million ? Improvement of Radiation Therapy Through Staff Scheduling Optimization Partners: UHN Princess Margaret Cancer Center, IVADO Labs, Southlake Regional Health Center, eSummit SCALE AI investment: $1.5 million Total investment: $1.7 million About Scale AI ( scaleai.ca ) As Canada's AI Global Innovation Cluster, Scale AI acts as an investment and innovation hub that accelerates the rapid adoption and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and contributes to developing a world-class Canadian AI ecosystem. Based in Montreal and funded by the federal government and the Quebec government, Scale AI works with more than 500 industry partners, research institutes, and other players in the field of AI. The organization develops programs to support investments in companies that implement real-world applications of AI and encourage the emergence of future Canadian flagships in the sector, all while facilitating the development of a highly skilled workforce. SOURCE Scale AI [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 27, 2023] Taboola's Skimlinks Partners with Yahoo Singapore for Exclusive Affiliate Opportunity at Yahoo Choice Awards 2023 Tweet Elevating Commerce Content and Recognizing Beloved Brands in Singapore SINGAPORE, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Skimlinks , a Taboola Company, has partnered with Yahoo Singapore as the exclusive affiliate partner for their first annual online event, Yahoo Choice Awards, this year. The event will honor brands cherished by Yahoo's readers as well as editors, solidifying Yahoo's position as a key commerce content player in the Southeast Asian region. The partnership presents an exceptional opportunity for merchants to spotlight their brands and captivate prospective customers in Singapore and across South-East Asia, positioning themselves prominently, ahead of the award announcement on October 24th. Partnering with one of the world's best guides to the Internet, merchants can boost their brand presence with customizable packages from Yahoo and Skimlinks. These include placement on the Yahoo Choice Awards topic page, social media integrations, and tailored brand content. Quote from RetaLee, Head of Commerce at Yahoo Southeast Asia at Yahoo "Yahoo's shopping content has grown tremendously since its launch in 2019 - now the leading commerce publisher in Southeast Asia. This year, we are excited to share the debut of Yahoo Choice Awards 2023 which grants a spotlight opportunity for brands and retailers who have been with us from the start. The focus will be to award the best and most loved brands, while helping our readers find the best deals and most trusted retailers for all their shopping needs." Quote from Jade McDade, Director APAC, Skimlinks Publisher Account Management "For over 3 years, Yahoo has been a steadfast global partner for Skimlinks. After our success in APAC with Yahoo Hong Kong's 666 shopping event in June, we're expanding our ecommerce partnership to Yahoo Singapore, offering an innovative platform for retail partners. The Yahoo Choice Awards provide an opportunity for regional retailers to align with a premium publisher in a high purchase intent audience environment." Over the last three years, Yahoo Singapore has demonstrated remarkable year-over-year growth from 2021 to 2023 in the Skimlinks Network, with a 489.7% boost in sales, and a 137% rise in traffic. The Yahoo Choice Awards began on September 12, featuring a wide range of merchants, exclusive discounts, and promotions. Voting runs from September 19 to October 13, winner revealed on October 24, 2023. Official event website About Yahoo Yahoo serves as a trusted guide for hundreds of millions of people globally, helping them achieve their goals online through our portfolio of iconic products. For advertisers, Yahoo Advertising offers omnichannel solutions and powerful data to engage with our brands and deliver results. To learn more about Yahoo, please visit yahooinc.com . About Skimlinks Skimlinks is the world's largest commerce content monetisation platform. Its technology enables publishers to earn a share of sales they drive through product links in commerce-related content, reducing their dependence on advertising and empowering publishers with new sustainable revenue sources. Skimlinks connects 60,000 publishers to 48,500 merchants worldwide, generating $2.5m of sales per day. With over a decade of industry experience, Skimlinks is a trusted partner of many top publishers, including Conde Nast, Hearst, and Yahoo!. The platform operates globally, with a strong presence in the US, UK, Europe, and APAC. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/taboolas-skimlinks-partners-with-yahoo-singapore-for-exclusive-affiliate-opportunity-at-yahoo-choice-awards-2023-301940083.html SOURCE Skimlinks [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 27, 2023] Wondershare Presentory: Pioneering a Video Presentation Transformation with AI-Powered Innovation Tweet VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Wondershare, a trusted name in software innovation, is thrilled to unveil Presentory, a cutting-edge AI-powered video presentation software set to redefine the way we communicate and captivate audiences. Presentory is a groundbreaking video presentation software designed with innovation and user-friendliness at its core. It empowers users to effortlessly create, live stream, and record captivating virtual presentations that seize the audience's attention every time. This tool is a game-changer, particularly for educators and influencers looking to showcase their expertise with impact and engagement. Key Features of Presentory: 1. AI-Generated Presentation: Presentory leverages advanced AI capabilities to assist users in producing high-quality content effortlessly. From generating visuals to suggesting content improvements, it revolutionizes the content creation process. 2. Teleprompter: Maintain eye contact with your audience while delivering scripted speeches or presentations seamlessly, enhancing professionalism and engagement. 3. Screen Recording: Create informative tutorial videos, software demonstrations, or any content that requires showcasing computer screen actions with just one click, complete with audio. 4. Virtual Camera: Transform your presentations with real-time live streaming, enabling dynamic interaction with your audience, ideal for webinars, online classes, and live events. 5. Presentation Templates: Access a diverse range of professionally designed presentation templates that not only save time but also ensure a consistent and visually appealing style. Iris Liu, the Head of Brand at Wondershare, articulates the company's overarching vision, stating, "At Wondershare Presentory, our corporate mission is to pioneer a transformative era in video presentations through a simple, user-centric approach, driven by the capabilities of artificial intelligence. We are committed to democratizing the creation of captivating content, ensuring that it's accessible to individuals from all walks of life. Presentory, powered by AI, stands as our corporate commitment to providing an affordable and efficient solution for crafting compelling video presentations within minutes." Compatibility and Price: Wondershare Presentory is compatible with Windows, and pricing starts at $4 per month. For a 14-day free trial and to download the software, please visit our website. Additionally, Presentory offers an online version, which can be accessed by visiting this website. Stay updated with the latest news and information about Presentory by following us on YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. About Wondershare? Wondershare is globally recognized as a software company that is committed to delivering innovative solutions for personal and professional use. As a leader in creativity and productivity products, Wondershare has received prestigious awards from organizations such as The Shorty Awards, G2, and GetApp. At Wondershare, the mission is to empower individuals to pursue their passions and build a more creative world. With over 100 million users across 150 countries, users can access a wide range of software solutions for video editing, PDF editing, data recovery, diagram and graphics, and more. Together, Wondershare strives to provide high-quality, user-friendly software that enables individuals and businesses to bring their creative ideas to life.? View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/wondershare-presentory-pioneering-a-video-presentation-transformation-with-ai-powered-innovation-301941112.html SOURCE Wondershare [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 27, 2023] Kaohsiung City's "Smart Agrinfo" App Wins Special Award at WeGO Seoul Smart City Awards KAOHSIUNG, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Kaohsiung City Government's pioneering smart city service, "Smart Agrinfo," has been honored with a Special Award at the Seoul Smart City Awards, hosted by the World Smart Sustainable Cities Organization (WeGO). This innovative agricultural application, lauded for its potential to address global food security challenges, leverages social media, and a popular messaging platform, to provide farmers with real-time information on pest control, production, and distribution. Among 240 international entries, "Smart Agrinfo" stood out and earned the recognition of the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), which is committed to fostering robust, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth in developing countries and emerging economies. GGGI Executive Director Frank Rijsberman, lauded "Smart Agrinfo" as a global game-changer. He emphasized its significant assistance to farmers in the face of ongoing climate change, offering invaluable support in climate and production forecasting, pest control, and sustainable food production. Lin Chin-Rong, Deputy Mayor of Kaohsiung City Government, noted that this recognition underscores the export potential of "Smart Agrinfo" a potential exportable solution to the food scarcity issues brought about by climatechange. It also brings global attention to the city of Kaohsiung. The Kaohsiung City Government proudly highlighted that "Smart Agrinfo" has consistently garnered international accolades since its launch, such as the 2022 Smart City Innovation Application Award, an Honorable Mention at the World Congress on Information Technology (WCIT) Outstanding Digital Opportunity Inclusion Award, and recognition as a finalist in the 2022 Gartner Digital Government Service Innovation Awards. These achievements underscore the continuous growth of "Smart Agrinfo" within the success of Kaohsiung's smart city development, further bolstered by domestic and international user appreciation and global attention. On the 26th, the Kaohsiung City Government delegation also met with Kim Eui Seung, the First Vice Mayor of Seoul City, and Jeong-Kee Kim, the Executive Director of CityNet. The discussions encompassed the dissemination of Kaohsiung's achievements in smart city initiatives, the promotion of call for solutions hosted by Kaohsiung City Government, and the exchange of insights into urban digitization and the dual-axis transformation towards sustainability, underlining Kaohsiung's vision for a digital, net-zero future. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/kaohsiung-citys-smart-agrinfo-app-wins-special-award-at-wego-seoul-smart-city-awards-301941187.html SOURCE Institute for Information Industry [September 28, 2023] ScolioLife Scoliosis & Spine Correction Clinic: A Beacon of Hope for Patients Tweet ~ ScolioLife Pioneers a Comprehensive and Holistic Approach to Scoliosis Management ~ SINGAPORE, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Dr Kevin Lau, renowned scoliosis specialist and founder of ScolioLife, has introduced an innovative and holistic approach to non-invasive scoliosis treatment. With over two decades of practice, Dr Lau firmly believes that merely alleviating the physical symptoms of scoliosis falls short of providing a complete solution. His conviction is that the right treatment, together with innovation and technology, should empower individuals to take charge of their health, offering hope and transformation. ScolioLife's believes in achieving consistent results in reducing scoliosis through non-invasive methods, which has attracted patients from around the world who either travel to Singapore or book teleconsultations with Dr Lau. This surge in demand has led to the recent expansion of the clinic, now spanning a spacious 2200 square feet from its initial 800 square feet. Dr Lau's dedication to helping scoliosis patients was ignited by a deeply personal experience of witnessing his brother's struggle with the condition. This profound encounter sparked his passion for treating scoliosis and propelled him on a journey of research, collaboration, and learning alongside leading scoliosis professionals worldwide. After more than two decades of practice, Dr Lau's expertise in non-surgical treatments culminated in the development of he ScolioLife System, an all-encompassing and holistic approach to scoliosis management. This system combines chiropractic techniques, Clear Methods, The Schroth Method, Yoga, bracing, and various other globally recognized methods. Today, with scoliosis affecting 3% of the global population, ScolioLife is dedicated to offering patients an alternative to surgical approach. The clinic's pioneering invention, the ScolioAlign brace, a 3D printed brace designed to aid in spinal alignment correction, has solidified its position as a leader in the field of scoliosis bracing. Combined with other exercises and treatment methods unique to the ScolioLife System, patients benefit from innovative apps like the Scoliometer and ScolioTrack, which empower them to personally monitor their progress. Dr Lau is an Australian and American-educated practitioner of natural and preventive healthcare, and has authored 5 books and written a number of journals on scoliosis. He strongly advocates early detection of idiopathic, congenital and neuromuscular scoliosis in children and adolescents, and adults to go for regular check-ups to detect degenerative scoliosis. ScolioLife Clinic, under the leadership of Dr Kevin Lau, remains dedicated to pioneering non-invasive solutions for scoliosis patients worldwide. Dr Lau's commitment to staying at the forefront of scoliosis care is evident through his rigorous research efforts, active participation in specialized scoliosis conferences, and keen interest in technological advancements in the treatment of scoliosis. For more information, please contact 6635 2550 or visit their official website at www.scoliolife.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/scoliolife-scoliosis--spine-correction-clinic-a-beacon-of-hope-for-patients-301941235.html SOURCE ScolioLife Pte Ltd [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] ACES wins Mumbai's First and Longest Underground Metro Line serving over 600 Million Annual Passengers Tweet MUMBAI, India, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRC) awarded 9 years contract to ACES India Private Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Advanced Communications and Electronics Systems Company (ACES) Saudi Arabia for providing Mobile Infrastructure Services including 4G and 5G services. ACES will equip India's longest underground metro line with State of Art mobile telecom infrastructure with 4G and 5G technologies and will cover the entire stretch of 33.5 Kilometers line, which includes 27 stations, platforms, concours, and tunnels. Thus, providing Metro's 1.6 million passengers per day with seamless coverage and enhance mobile data speeds. Dr. Akram Aburas, CEO of ACES expressed his pride association with this prestigious project and explained ACES future vision as International Neutral Digital Infrastructure Company. He also confirmed that the contract aims to create a modern and intelligent environment for Metro's passengers, travelers and its employees a seamless highspeed mobile service experience. MMRC Management expressed happiness in partnering with ACES, which aims to equip its longest underground Metro Line-3 with a state of art 4G and 5G Mobile Infrastructure for an exclusive period of 9 years and will neutrally cater 600 million Passengers annually. The award process was led by Ms. Ashwini Bhide - Managing Director, Mr. R. Ramana - Director (Planning & Real-estate dev./ NFBR), Mr. Swetal D. Kanwalu - Deputy General Manager (Twn Planning) and Ms. Farha Irani - Assistant General Manager (Town Planning) and others from MMRC. Mr. R. Ramana - Director (Planning & Real-estate dev./ NFBR) expressed happiness for the annual premium offered by ACES being the highest in the country. This endeavor will strongly support Metro Line-3 operations and enhance user experience. The LoA was received on 26-September-2023 by Dr. Akram Aburas - CEO of ACES, Mr. Mohammed N. Mazher - Managing Director of ACES India Pvt. Ltd., along with other management team members from ACES. ACES India Private Limited based in India is a wholly owned subsidiary of Saudi Company ACES. ACES is one of the leading International Digital Infrastructure company in Middle East, South East Asia and Europe. Several important projects have already been implemented, most notably the expansion of the Holy-Mosque in Makkah, Riyadh Metro, Jeddah Airport, Riyadh Airport, MASAR and international projects like Bangalore Airport, Surat Diamond Bourse, Taj Hotel and others. https://www.aces-co.com/ Mumbai Metro Line - 3 (MML - 3) is one of such key projects to improve the transportation scenario in the financial capital of India i.e. Mumbai. MML-3 project - a 33.5 km. long corridor running along Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ, envisages to decongest the traffic situation in Greater Mumbai. Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRC) is the nodal agency responsible for the implementation of Mumbai Metro Line3 (MML-3) project. It has been constituted as a JV of the Govt. of India (GoI) and the Government of Maharashtra (GoM) on 50:50 sharing basis. https://mmrcl.com/ Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2223194/Director_and_CEO_of_ACES.jpg Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2223196/LoA_Ceremony_held_at_MMRC_office.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/aces-wins-mumbais-first-and-longest-underground-metro-line-serving-over-600-million-annual-passengers-301940748.html [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Basilea announces New England Journal of Medicine publication of phase 3 data on ceftobiprole for the treatment of Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia Tweet Allschwil, Switzerland, September 28, 2023 Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd, Allschwil (SIX: BSLN), a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company committed to meeting the needs of patients with severe bacterial and fungal infections, announced today that data from the successful phase 3 study ERADICATE were published in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM), one of the world's leading peer-reviewed medical journals.1 In the study, Basileas ceftobiprole, a beta-lactam antibiotic, was evaluated for the treatment of bacterial bloodstream infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus in adult patients, also known as Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (SAB). ERADICATE is the largest registrational study for SAB conducted to date and ceftobiprole showed similar clinical benefit compared to daptomycin, which is a standard of care antibiotic in the treatment of SAB. ERADICATE was a double-blind, non-inferiority study, which included 390 adult patients with complicated SAB, including right-sided infective endocarditis, at 60 sites in 17 countries.2 Patients were randomized to receive infusions of ceftobiprole or daptomycin (plus optional aztreonam) for up to 42 days. The primary outcome of the study was overall treatment success at 70 days after randomization defined by survival, bacteremia clearance, symptom improvement, no new SAB-related complications, and no receipt of other potentially effective antibiotics. Using a pre-defined non-inferiority margin of 15%, treatment with ceftobiprole was non-inferior to daptomycin with overall treatment success achieved in 69.8% of patients in the ceftobiprole group compared to 68.7% in the daptomycin group. The results for the primary study outcome were consistent in key subgroups, including patients with either methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). Clearance of MRSA bacteria from the bloodstream was achieved in 93.3% of patients in the ceftobiprole group compared with 87.8% in the daptomycin group after a median of 5 days of treatment, and clearance of MSSA bacteria from the bloodstream was achieved in 94.3% of patients in the ceftobiprole group after a median of 3 days of treatment compared with 95.2% in the daptomycin group after a median of 4 days of treatment. Ceftobiprole was generally well tolerated and showed a safety profile consistent with previous phase 3 studies and the post-marketing experience. The overall percentage of patients reporting adverse events was similar between the two treatment groups with more patients reporting gastrointestinal adverse events in the ceftobiprole group, typical for the beta-lactam class of antibiotics. There were no reports of Clostridioides difficile infections in either group. Thomas Holland, M.D., Associate Professor in the department of Medicine at Duke University School of Medicine and chair of the data review committee of the study, said: This is an area with a high need to provide new treatments to patients and there has not been a new antibiotic approved for the treatment of Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia for over 15 years. Vance G. Fowler, Jr., M.D., Professor in the departments of Medicine and Molecular Genetics & Microbiology at Duke University School of Medicine and academic ead investigator, added: Complicated Staphylococcus aureus infections have a high mortality rate and are associated with substantial morbidity and we need more options for treating these infections, especially if MRSA is involved. Dr. Marc Engelhardt, Chief Medical Officer of Basilea, stated: The data from the ERADICATE study published in the NEJM support the potent activity of ceftobiprole for treating serious bacterial infections. Based on ERADICATE and additional randomized controlled phase 3 studies, we have recently submitted a New Drug Application to the US Food and Drug Administration, seeking approval of ceftobiprole for treating patients in three indications: Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia, including right-sided infective endocarditis, acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia. Basileas ceftobiprole phase 3 program is funded in part with federal funds from the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR); Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), under contract number HHSO100201600002C. Basilea has been awarded approximately USD 112 million, or approximately 75 percent of the costs related to the phase 3 studies in SAB and acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSI), regulatory activities and non-clinical work. About ceftobiprole Ceftobiprole, the active moiety of the prodrug ceftobiprole medocaril, is an advanced generation cephalosporin antibiotic for intravenous administration, with rapid bactericidal activity against a wide range of Gram-positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant strains (MRSA), and Gram-negative bacteria.3 The brand is currently approved and marketed as Zevtera and Mabelio in several countries in Europe and beyond for the treatment of adult patients with hospital-acquired bacterial pneumonia (HABP), excluding ventilator-associated bacterial pneumonia (VABP), and for the treatment of community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP). Basilea has entered into license and distribution agreements covering more than 80 countries. Ceftobiprole is currently not approved or partnered in the US. Ceftobiprole was designated a Qualified Infectious Disease Product (QIDP) by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for SAB, ABSSSI and CABP. Therefore, if approved, ceftobiprole would be eligible to receive ten years of market exclusivity in the US from the date of approval. About Basilea Basilea is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company founded in 2000 and headquartered in Switzerland. We are committed to discovering, developing and commercializing innovative drugs to meet the needs of patients with severe bacterial or fungal infections. We have successfully launched two hospital brands, Cresemba for the treatment of invasive fungal infections and Zevtera for the treatment of bacterial infections. In addition, we have preclinical anti-infective assets in our portfolio. Basilea is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (SIX: BSLN). Please visit basilea.com. Disclaimer This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements, such as "believe", "assume", "expect", "forecast", "project", "may", "could", "might", "will" or similar expressions concerning Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd, Allschwil and its business, including with respect to the progress, timing and completion of research, development and clinical studies for product candidates. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd, Allschwil to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd, Allschwil is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. For further information, please contact: Peer Nils Schroder, PhD Head of Corporate Communications & Investor Relations Basilea Pharmaceutica International Ltd, Allschwil Hegenheimermattweg 167b 4123 Allschwil Switzerland Phone +41 61 606 1102 E-mail [email protected] [email protected] This press release can be downloaded from www.basilea.com. References T. L. Holland, S. E. Cosgrove, S. B. Doernberg et al. Ceftobiprole for treatment of complicated Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. New England Journal of Medicine 2023 Sep 27; DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2300220. Epub ahead of print. ERADICATE: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT03138733 Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) Zevtera: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/9164/smpc [Accessed September 27, 2023] Attachment Press release (PDF) [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] The Affordable Care Act, commonly known as Obamacare, provides health insurance each year to millions of Americans who otherwise would have been uninsured. It also offers an alternative for people and families who have access to health insurance from an employer, if the coverage is deemed unaffordable. As the 2024 open enrollment season approaches, now is a good time to discuss whether buying health insurance through Pennie Pennsylvania's health insurance marketplace is a good idea for those who have high-cost, employer-provided insurance. David Bruce writes Here to Help, a consumer column that runs regularly on GoErie.com and in the Erie Times-News. Who can buy health insurance through Pennie? Pennsylvanians can apply for health insurance through Pennie even if they have an offer of job-provided insurance. The key is that they are not enrolled in the coverage, Devon Trolley, Pennie's executive director, said in an email. The applicant would have to pay full price, however, unless the job-provided coverage fails to meet certain thresholds. Then they might qualify for tax credits and cost-sharing reductions. "They can be eligible for financial help to reduce the cost of coverage if their offer of employer coverage does not meet the minimum value standards (60% actuarial value) or their premium exceeds a certain amount (8.39% of household income for plan year 2024)," Trolley said. A health plan's actuarial value is a measure of the percentage of estimated health-care costs a health plan would cover. Most plans meet this threshold, Trolley said. How has the cost of Pennie plans for family members changed? Until plan year 2023, a family's eligibility for financial help with a Pennie plan if a person was employed was based on the premium cost of a self-only policy and not a family policy. The average annual premium for employer-sponsored family health insurance in 2022 was $22,463, compared to $7.911 for self-only coverage, according to Kaiser Family Foundation. A family earning $100,000 would have qualified for financial help based on the family policy but not if it was based on the self-only policy. Story continues The issue was especially difficult for families where the employer paid the entire premium for the worker but contributed nothing for their family members. How can I shop for a plan through Pennie? Open enrollment for plan year 2024 runs Nov. 1 through Jan. 15, though you must enroll by Dec. 15 for coverage starting Jan. 1. Applications are also accepted throughout the year for life-changing events, such as the loss of health insurance, marriage or divorce, or the birth of a baby. You can apply for coverage through Pennie by visiting enroll.pennie.com. If you are apllying for coverage, you will need to know your annual household income, and have your Social Security number, photo ID, last four weeks of pay stubs and most recent tax return. If your employer offers health insurance, you will also need the premium information for their lowest-priced coverage (either self or family, whichever you are seeking). Have a consumer question you'd like us to help you with? Leave a message with David Bruce at 814-870-1736, send an email to david.bruce@timesnews.com or send mail to 205 W. 12th St., Erie, PA 16534. This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Affordable Care Act plans available even if job offers health insurance [September 28, 2023] Spexis announces the appointment of Goncalo Bernardes, Ph.D., as acting Head of Chemical Biology Tweet ALLSCHWIL, Switzerland, Sept. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Spexis AG (SIX: SPEX), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on rare diseases and oncology, today announced that the company has appointed Goncalo Bernardes, PhD, as acting Head of Chemical Biology. Dr. Bernardes is a leader in the fields of chemistry and oncology and currently a Full Professor at the University of Cambridge. He also leads a satellite lab at the Insituto Medicina Molecular in Lisbon. Multiple discoveries made in his lab have been translated into leading biopharmaceutical companies. We are thrilled to welcome Goncalo to Spexis, where we look forward to leveraging his expertise in chemical biology to advance the development of our novel macrocycle pipeline, said Jeff Wager, M.D., Chairman & CEO of Spexis. Spexis remains committed to strengthening our leading position in macrocycle-based therapeutics with our two distinct and well characterized libraries, PEMFinder and MACROFinder. Dr. Bernardes will be instrumental in driving value out of our macrocycle platform to produce novel therapeutics for the treatment of cancer and rare diseases. In the coming weeks and months, we will reveal what some of these initiatives are, which are already underway. Dr. Bernardes is a Full Professor of Chemical Biology and a Fellow of Trinity Hall College, Cambridge. He has co-founded companies using technology developed in his lab and has been awarded three European Research Council grants, as well as awards from the Royal Society of Chemistry, International Chemical Biology Society, European Federation of Medicinal Chemistry and The Blavatnik Family Foundation. Dr. Bernardes also serves as a Senior Fellow at Flagship Pioneering, the largest global venture incubator. He completed his Ph.D. at the Univesity of Oxford, U.K., and his postdoctoral work at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) in Zurich. I am excited to join Spexis and their mission to combat diseases that require innovative thinking supported by strong chemical and biological principles, said Goncalo Bernardes, Ph.D. I believe my background in research and entrepreneurship will complement the pioneering work being done at the company, and I am eager to work closely with the team to further develop novel macrocycle-based therapeutics through the clinic and to patients in need. Spexis innovation and dedication to its platform reflects the growing potential of macrocycles to target unique molecular structures and their compatibility with a variety of other technologies. Spexis possesses two distinct, highly diverse, and well characterized macrocycle libraries including PEMFinder, comprised of peptidomimetic macrocycles, and MACROFinder, comprised of small molecule macrocycles. Both of these libraries were developed over the course of more than 20 years of discovery and drug development efforts both at Spexis and via Spexis predecessor, Polyphor, Ltd. Macrocycles occupy a unique chemical space, with a molecular weight between small molecules and biologics. Spexis continues to leverage its macrocycle platform into new therapeutic modalities and the company expects to provide further details on their progress later this year. About Spexis Spexis (SIX: SPEX) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Allschwil, Switzerland, focused on macrocycle therapeutics for rare diseases and oncology. For further information please visit: www.spexisbio.com. For further information please contact: For Investors: Hernan Levett Chief Financial Officer Spexis AG. +41 61 567 16 00 [email protected] Disclaimer This press release contains forward-looking statements which are based on current assumptions and forecasts of Spexis management. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors could lead to material differences between the forward-looking statements made here and the actual development, in particular Spexis results, financial situation, and performance. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only of the date of this communication. Spexis disclaims any intention or obligation to update and revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Humanetics Unveils TrackBase Connect to Elevate Your Proving Ground Efficiency Tweet Humanetics announced the launch of its new active safety proving grounds management tool, TrackBase Connect, to its customers gathered at the Humanetics Safety Summit in Germany. Following a successful first demonstration at the Digitrans proving ground in Linz, Austria, TrackBase Connect is now being rolled out to select customers in Europe, Asia and the U.S. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230927339383/en/ TrackBase Connect Mobile Interface (Photo: Business Wire) Humanetics, a global supplier of advanced safety testing solutions for the automotive industry, has a comprehensive portfolio of active safety hardware products to support crash prevention technologies like Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Its products include several UFO (ultra-flat over-runable) target carriers to represent different road users in test scenarios; as well as Driving Robots that control the speed and steering of the test vehicle. As proving ground test scenarios become more complex, using a combination of road-users - like pedestrians, bicycles, motorbikes and other vehicles - coordinating the different test assets becomes harder and more time consuming. TrackBase Connect addresses these challenges by providing a user-friendly interface that abstracts the underlying complexity. The software allows test sites to be utilized to their fullest potential. It integrates test equipment such as target carriers and vehicles, as well as proving-ground specific inrastructure, including traffic lights, gates, mesh networks, weather stations and rain plants. The software is designed for seamless operation on various devices, making it accessible and efficient for on-site testing. Mark Westen, President of Humanetics Safety, said, "In an era of rapid technological advancements and increasing complexity in ADAS tests and features, the demand for efficient and holistic software solutions has never been greater. Our approach optimizes time and area usage on the test track without compromising safety." By providing an overview of all activities, including to everyone on site, TrackBase Connect improves coordination and therefore increases efficiency for multiple teams using the same space. "We envision TrackBase Connect as a transformative force in the ADAS testing arena," added Karsten Newbury, President of Humanetics Digital. "Our software seamlessly complements our comprehensive active safety hardware product suite as well as third-party integration via the ISO 22133 standard. This synergy empowers our customers with a holistic approach to testing, boosting both efficiency and reliability." To mark the launch of TrackBase Connect, Humanetics hosted an exclusive event at the Digitrans proving ground on September 12th. The event provided a platform for industry experts, customers, and partners to witness firsthand the capabilities of this groundbreaking software. Christoph Feichtinger of Digitrans stated, "TrackBase Connect by Humanetics has added revolutionary value to our Proving Ground. The seamless localization and control of all test participants enable the efficient execution of even the most complex traffic and mobility scenarios. The integration of Digitrans-specific operational design elements such as the outdoor rain plant promises further optimization of the testing process. This innovative system has exceeded our expectations and is a crucial step towards the future of mobility testing." With the introduction of TrackBase Connect, Humanetics reaffirms its commitment to driving innovation and safety in the realm of active safety testing. The company's forward-looking approach continues to shape the industry's trajectory, as it transforms the landscape of how ADAS testing is conducted on proving grounds. For more information about TrackBase Connect, please visit our website. About Humanetics (Website: https://www.humaneticsgroup.com/) Humanetics is an Industrial technology company, and a leading provider of active safety systems, crash test dummies (ATDs), simulation software, CAE models, precision sensors, fiber optics and cutting-edge laser material engineering solutions. The group has over 950 employees across 26 facilities strategically located around the world with the global corporate headquarters located in Farmington Hills, Michigan, USA. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230927339383/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] E.SUN Held ESG Initiative for the Third Time and Committed to Presenting "A Better Taiwan to the World" Tweet E.SUN Bank's "E.SUN ESG Initiative Event" was convened for the third consecutive year in Taipei, Taiwan. President Tsai Ing-wen, Secretary-General Lin Chia-lung, Deputy Minister Yeh Chun-hung of the Ministry of the Environment, and Vice Chairman Chiu Shu-chen of the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) attended to support. More than one hundred excellent companies enrolled the initiative to advocate for the implementation of net-zero target. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230927909980/en/ President Tsai Ing-wen (front middle) attended "E.SUN ESG Initiative Event", more than one hundred excellent companies enroled the initiative to advocate for the implementation of net-zero target. (Photo: Business Wire) The "E.SUN Sustainability Initiative Event" was launched in 2021 with 32 participating corporations, in 2022, the initiative garnered significant response, with a total of 101 influential companies accounted for an impressive NT$5.08 trillion in total revenue, they represented over 23% of Taiwan's GDP in 2021. This year, the number of participating companies has increased to 157, including top performers in global market share, key component suppliers, and Taiwanese enterprises running in the USA, Australia, and ASEAN countries. Experienced consulting firms specializing in sustainability and net-zero also joined the initiative. They are committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through concrete energy-saving and carbon reduction actions to mitigate environmental impact. President Tsai Ing-wen wrote down her blessing message "A better Taiwan to the World", demonstrating her determination to accelerate the transition to net-zero. She appreciated that more companies are joining the ESG advocacy, and she expresses strong confidence in Taiwan's bright future. President Tsai noted that the more companies start taking actions, the closer we can reach the target. President Tsai expects more companies to take action and to engage stakeholders in zero-carbon transformation, turning challenges into new opportunities, enabling Taiwan's industries with strong competitiveness to face the global trend of sustainable development and the requirements of green supply chains. E.SUN specially invited Helen Clarkson, CEO of The Climate Group, and Sam Kimmins, Chairman of RE100, to share their expectations and encouragement for Taiwan's sustainable development through video. Chairman of E.SUN Joseph Huang emphasized that sustainability and climate action have become a new global language. Through the collective strength of the financial sector, E.SUN aims to amplify its positive influence and expand global perspective alongside its advocacy partners, and strengthening Taiwan's sustainable competitiveness! View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230927909980/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] ZAP Surgical Deals Two More Blows to Elekta in IP Suit, Removing Barriers to Mass Adoption of the ZAP-X Radiosurgery Platform Tweet ZAP Surgical Systems, Inc., a leading innovator in the field of surgical robotics, has achieved significant legal victories in its ongoing patent litigation against its much larger competitor, Elekta, solidifying the continued availability of the groundbreaking ZAP-X Gyroscopic Radiosurgery platform in global markets. In April 2019, Elekta alleged that the ZAP-X infringed upon its patent 7,296,648, which described a theoretical design for a radiosurgery device that was never brought to market. Elekta's lawsuit against ZAP Surgical sought monetary damages with a three-fold enhancement for willful infringement, as well as an injunction prohibiting the importation, manufacture, use and sales of the ZAP-X. The pivotal moment in this legal dispute occurred in April 2021 when the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) ruled that Elekta's original patent claims were invalid, casting doubt on the basis of Elekta's initial allegations. On September 21, 2023, the U.S. Federal Court of Appeals delivered a final judgment on Elekta's appeal, reaffirming the USPTO's 2021 decision and affirming that the claims made in patent 7,296,648 are unpatentable due to "obviousness." The judicial panel meticulously reviewed Elekta's arguments and found them "unpersuasive", thus settling the matter conclusively in favor of ZAP Surgical. Additionally, ZAP Surgical celebrated another significant victory on September 14, 2023, when the German Federal Patent Court in Munich declared Elekta's European patent 1 680 023, which pertains to the same technology, as invalid. This German decision echoes the sentiments expressed by the U.S. courts, further strengthening ZAP Surgical's position in this protracted legal battle. In response to the recent legal victories, Dr. John R. Adler, Jr., Stanford Professor of Neurosurgery, and Founder & Chief Executive Officer of ZAP Surgical Systems commened, "We are pleased with the outcome of these legal proceedings, which reaffirm the integrity and innovation behind the ZAP-X platform." "True innovation is difficult and fraught with failure. Not surprisingly, our legal system is overburdened with frivolous patent lawsuits by companies who have forgotten how to innovate, where the objective may not be to prevail, but to simply outspend, distract and forestall much smaller more thinly capitalized competitors," added Adler. "Who suffers most? Global healthcare systems, and more importantly, patients. No matter, ZAP Surgical remains undeterred in its mission to improve the lives of patients through innovative and cost saving medical technologies, redoubling efforts to provide the ZAP-X platform to medical professionals worldwide." Initiating its first patient treatments in just 2019, the ZAP-X platform has seen remarkable success with more than 55 system installations and orders. Using a modern linear accelerator to generate radiation, ZAP-X stands out as a pioneer with the sole dedicated cranial radiosurgery system that eliminates the need for Cobalt-60 radioactive sources. This groundbreaking feature not only eliminates substantial expenses related to hosting, securing, and regularly replacing volatile radioactive isotopes, but also aligns with the International Atomic Energy Association's (IAEA) stance, which strongly discourages the use of radioactive materials in medicine due to various global security and environmental concerns. ZAP-X is also renowned for being the first and only self-shielded radiation delivery system, thereby eliminating significant expense to build costly shielded radiation treatment rooms. About ZAP Surgical Systems, Inc. ZAP Surgical Systems, Inc. designs and manufactures the ZAP-X Gyroscopic Radiosurgery platform. ZAP was founded in 2014 by Dr. John R. Adler. In addition to being CEO of ZAP, Dr. Adler is Emeritus Dorothy & TK Chan Professor of Neurosurgery and Radiation Oncology at Stanford University. Dr. Adler is also renowned as the inventor of the CyberKnife system and founder of Accuray, Inc. The ZAP-X platform incorporates a unique vault-free design that typically eliminates the need for costly shielded treatment rooms. ZAP-X also utilizes a modern linear accelerator to eliminate legacy use of Cobalt-60. Learn more at ZAP Surgical and follow us on LinkedIn. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230927146119/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] NorthX Biologics AB Announces Inauguration of Innovation Hub at Matfors Facility Tweet MATFORS, Sweden, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NorthX Biologics AB (NorthX) is proud to announce the official inauguration of its state-of-the-art Innovation Hub at the Matfors facility. This significant milestone marks a major step forward in NorthX's commitment to the field of advanced therapies in Sweden. The Innovation Hub, co-funded by the Swedish Government, is poised to enhance the country's infrastructure for cutting-edge therapies and accelerate innovation in the biopharmaceutical sector. The Innovation Hub represents NorthX's dedication to pushing the boundaries of biotechnology by fostering collaboration, research, and development in advanced therapies. With a focus on manufacturing of advanced biologics including Vaccine, Cell and Gene therapies, the Innovation Hub is set to become a catalyst for breakthroughs in medical science. This facility supplements NorthX's existing expertise in Plasmid and Protein manufacturing by adding mRNA services, reinforcing the company's position as a comprehensive solution provider in the biopharmaceutical industry. NorthX has experienced rapid growth, expanding its portfolio to encompass a wide range of services that cater to the evolving needs of the industry. The additon of the Matfors Innovation Hub, combined with the recent acquisition of a site in Stockholm, with state-of-the-art facilities and expertise for GMP biomanufacturing through mammalian cell culture processes, further solidifies NorthX's commitment to advancing life-changing therapies. "We are thrilled to unveil the Innovation Hub at our Matfors facility and it represents our dedication to driving innovation and progress in the field of biopharmaceuticals," said Janet Hoogstraate, CEO of NorthX Biologics AB. "This hub stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of NorthX and the Swedish Government, as well as our ongoing commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions to our partners and clients for bringing new therapies to patients." NorthX Biologics AB extends its gratitude to all stakeholders, partners, and employees who have contributed to the realization of the Innovation Hub. The facility represents a shared vision of advancing science and medicine to improve the lives of patients worldwide. For more information, please contact: Janet Hoogstraate, CEO [email protected] About NorthX Biologics AB: NorthX Biologics, a leading Nordic Development and Manufacturing Organization, has expertise in producing cell and gene therapies, proteins, vaccines, other advanced biologics. With two sites in Sweden and headquartered in Matfors, the team has been manufacturing biologics to GMP standards since 1992. In 2021 NorthX was designated a national innovation hub for advanced therapies and vaccines and has the ambition to become a leading cell and gene therapy manufacturer and partner for innovative drug development companies. For more information see www.nxbio.com. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] US Employee Well-being on the Rise, but Perception Gap Remains Between HR and Employees, Reveals Leapsome Study Tweet Leapsome, the all-in-one intelligent people enablement platform, today unveils a new study, Beyond the Cubicle: Leapsome's Workforce Trends Report, conducted with YouGov. Findings include a reassuring boost in US employee mental health, a notable lack of employee engagement tracking by HR, and a general call for more feedback and fewer meetings. The Perception Gap: HR Leaders vs. Employees The study reveals a significant perception gap between HR leaders and employees on engagement, alignment, and performance. While half of HR leaders believe their employees are "completely engaged," only one in three employees feel this way. This overestimation could be due to a lack of measurement - given only one-third of HR leaders track engagement, attrition, and turnover. This perception gap extends to views on internal alignment - 85% of employees feel they understand the company's direction and their role in it. Still, HR leaders estimate only 61% have this understanding. Similarly, 80% of employees see themselves as top performers, defined by consistently going above and beyond what their role requires, whereas HR estimates only 65% of employees do so. Jenny Podewils, co-CEO and co-founder of Leapsome remarked, "Understanding the nuances between HR leaders' perceptions and employees' experiences is crucial for any organization striving for excellence. Our research aims to highlight these disparities to help businesses align better and foster a more inclusive, effective workplace." Key Findings: Employee well-being sees a boost due to better work-life balance: An encouraging 88% of US employees rate their mental health positively, and almost half saw an improvement over the past 12 months. Reassuringly, 83% of employees feel their managers genuinely care for their mental well-being. For those who don't describe their mental health positively, three in five say this is due to job responsibilities and workload. A strong predictor for mental health, 87% of US employees describe their work-life balance positively. 86% say good work-life balance is important for overall job satisfaction, but only 77% say company leadership enables good work-life balance. An encouraging 88% of US employees rate their mental health positively, and almost half saw an improvement over the past 12 months. Reassuringly, 83% of employees feel their managers genuinely care for their mental well-being. For those who don't describe their mental health positively, three in five say this is due to job responsibilities and workload. A strong predictor for mental health, 87% of US employees describe their work-life balance positively. 86% say good work-life balance is important for overall job satisfaction, but only 77% say company leadership enables good work-life balance. Less job-hopping mainly due to flexibility : 31% of US empoyees plan to change jobs within the next year, compared to 80% last year. Four in five employees who plan to change jobs are disengaged in their current roles. Those with no plans to change jobs say their primary reasons for staying are workplace flexibility with a hybrid or remote set-up (38%), good workplace culture and morale (36%), and a manageable workload that allows for good work-life balance (35%). : 31% of US empoyees plan to change jobs within the next year, compared to 80% last year. Four in five employees who plan to change jobs are disengaged in their current roles. Those with no plans to change jobs say their primary reasons for staying are workplace flexibility with a hybrid or remote set-up (38%), good workplace culture and morale (36%), and a manageable workload that allows for good work-life balance (35%). Feedback culture is strong, but more is wanted : While both HR leaders (97%) and employees (85%) believe their companies have a good feedback culture, three in four (73%) employees crave more constructive feedback and recognition from their managers. Most (71%) employees have a performance review at least twice a year. Only two-thirds are satisfied with the review process in their company, and half say reviews should happen more often. : While both HR leaders (97%) and employees (85%) believe their companies have a good feedback culture, three in four (73%) employees crave more constructive feedback and recognition from their managers. Most (71%) employees have a performance review at least twice a year. Only two-thirds are satisfied with the review process in their company, and half say reviews should happen more often. Employee productivity is boosted by AI but hampered by meetings: One in four ( 24%) US employees use AI for work daily. Most (83%) workers using AI for work say it has improved their productivity. On the other side of the productivity spectrum, most consider half their weekly meetings a waste of time. One in four 24%) US employees use AI for work daily. Most (83%) workers using AI for work say it has improved their productivity. On the other side of the productivity spectrum, most consider half their weekly meetings a waste of time. A strong sense of economic preparedness: Both employees (85%) and HR leaders (93%) feel their companies are prepared for economic challenges. However, three in four (76%) HR leaders believe better people enablement would further improve organizational resilience. The message for HR and business leaders is clear: continuous dialogue and insight into employee perceptions are critical for organizational success. Only 35% of US HR leaders track essential metrics like turnover and engagement rates; of those tracking engagement, only 31% use dedicated surveys. This lack of internal insights risks widening the perception gap between HR leaders and employees. Recommended Actions Close the Perception Gap : HR needs to invest in better understanding employee sentiment, which may involve more frequent and actionable performance reviews, more regular feedback mechanisms, and dedicated engagement surveys. : HR needs to invest in better understanding employee sentiment, which may involve more frequent and actionable performance reviews, more regular feedback mechanisms, and dedicated engagement surveys. Foster an Open Feedback Culture : Encourage a feedback-rich culture with regular recognition and opportunities to share ideas and concerns. Employees not only appreciate it but also become more productive. : Encourage a feedback-rich culture with regular recognition and opportunities to share ideas and concerns. Employees not only appreciate it but also become more productive. Track and Measure: Only one-third of HR leaders track crucial metrics like turnover, engagement, or promotion rates. Addressing this gap is essential for future planning and long-term success. "It's encouraging to see employee well-being and work-life balance rise - likely due to companies investing more into people processes. Still, the disparities between HR and employee perspectives point to the ongoing importance of an open dialogue to align these two groups on engagement, performance, and organizational direction," explains Podewils. - About the research Leapsome and YouGov surveyed 2,500 full-time professionals across the tech and consulting sectors in the United States, Germany, France, and the UK, including 500 US HR leaders. The surveys took place in August 2023. About Leapsome Leapsome is the all-in-one, intelligent people enablement platform trusted by CEOs and HR teams at more than 1,500 forward-thinking companies, such as Spotify, monday.com, and Unity, to drive employee development, productivity, and engagement. The platform offers an integrated suite of tools for Goal Setting & OKRs, Performance Reviews and 360s, Competency Frameworks, Learning & Onboarding, Engagement Surveys, Feedback & Praise, Compensation & Promotions, and Meeting Management. Leapsome was founded in 2016 by Kajetan Armansperg and Jenny Podewils. Visit www.leapsome.com to learn more. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928916534/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Unified Endpoint Management Market to grow by USD 2.57 billion between 2022 to 2027 | 42Gears Mobility Systems Pvt. Ltd., BlackBerry Ltd., Broadcom Inc., and more among key companies - Technavio Tweet NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The unified endpoint management market size is expected to grow by USD 2.57 billion from 2022 to 2027. In addition, the growth momentum of the market will progress at a CAGR of 36.96% during the forecast period, according to Technavio. The need for integrated UEM solutions to manage traditional and non-traditional endpoints is notably driving the unified endpoint management market. However, factors such as the availability of open-source UEM solutions may impede market growth. The market is segmented by Component (Solutions and Services), Deployment (Cloud, On-premises, and Hybrid), and Geography (North America, APAC, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa). We provide a detailed analysis of 20 companies operating in the unified endpoint management market including 42Gears Mobility Systems Pvt. Ltd., BlackBerry Ltd., Broadcom Inc., Cisco Systems Inc., Cloud Software Group Inc., International Business Machines Corp., Ivanti Software Inc., JAMF HOLDING CORP., Matrix42 GmbH, Micro Focus International Plc, Microsoft Corp., Mitsogo Inc., ProMobi Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Snow Software, Sophos Ltd., SOTI Inc., Syxsense Inc., VMware Inc., Zoho Corp. Pvt. Ltd., and Dell Technologies Inc. The report offers an up-to-date analysis of the market, and to know the exact growth variance and the Y-O-Y growth rate, Request a Free Sample Report. Unified Endpoint Management Market 2023-2027: Company Analysis 42Gears Mobility Systems Pvt. Ltd. - The company offers unified end-point management such as SureMDM. This report provides a full list of key companies, their strategies, and the latest developments. Buy Now for detailed company information Unified Endpoint Management Market 2023-2027: Segmentation Component The solutions segment will be significant during the forecast period. UEM solutions have a broad range of functionality and features. They help simplify the management of endpoint devices, provide greater security as well, and make IT more efficient. Furthermore, they provide a range of security features to protect endpoints and data, such as data encryption, access controls, antivirus management, and patch management. They also allow IT administrators to ensure the consistent enforcement of security policies across all managed endpoints. Hence, such factors drive the growth of the solutions segment of the UEM market during the forecast period. Geography North America will contribute 35% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. This region is an early adopter of the UEM market. Enterprises are increasingly using connected devices and they need to be managed, which is a main factor for the increasing need for UEM solutions in the region. For instance, JetRight Aerospace Holdings (JetRight), a provider of on-demand charter and managed services in the US. This company was facing a challenge in managing its mobile devices and fleets. This resulted in the company using JAMF Software LLC (JAMF) Now to manage the devices, control them, and share devices and fleets in numerous countries. Hence, such factors drive the growth of the UEM solutions market in the North American region during the forecast period. Learn about the contribution of each segment summarized in concise infographics and thorough descriptions. View a Free PDF Sample Report Unified Endpoint Management Market 2023-2027: Key Highlights Historic Market Size 2017-2021 CAGR of the market during 2023-2027 Detailed information on factors that will assist unified endpoint management market growth during the next five years Estimation of the unified endpoint management market size and its contribution to the parent market Forecasts on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior The growth of the unified endpoint management market Analysis of the competitive landscape and detailed information on companies Comprehensive details of factors that will impede the growth of unified endpoint management market companies Related Reports: The personal identity management market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 12.74% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 10,453.59 million. The risk management software market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 15.32% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 7,372.29 million. Unified Endpoint Management Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2022 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 36.96% Market growth 2023-2027 USD 2.57 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 36.72 Regional analysis North America, APAC, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution North America at 35% Key countries US, Canada, China, Germany, and UK Competitive landscape Leading Vendors, Market Positioning of Vendors, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled 42Gears Mobility Systems Pvt. Ltd., BlackBerry Ltd., Broadcom Inc., Cisco Systems Inc., Cloud Software Group Inc., International Business Machines Corp., Ivanti Software Inc., JAMF HOLDING CORP., Matrix42 GmbH, Micro Focus International Plc, Microsoft Corp., Mitsogo Inc., ProMobi Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Snow Software, Sophos Ltd., SOTI Inc., Syxsense Inc., VMware Inc., Zoho Corp. Pvt. Ltd., and Dell Technologies Inc. Market dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, Market condition analysis for the forecast period. Customization purview If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized. ToC: Executive Summary Market Landscape Market Sizing Historic Market Sizes Five Forces Analysis Market Segmentation by Component 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 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 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/unified-endpoint-management-market-to-grow-by-usd-2-57-billion-between-2022-to-2027--42gears-mobility-systems-pvt-ltd-blackberry-ltd-broadcom-inc-and-more-among-key-companies---technavio-301940847.html SOURCE Technavio [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Battery Ventures Creates Latest Lab-Automation Technologies Platform with Investments in Skalar Analytical, PromoChrom and LCTech Tweet Battery Ventures, a global, technology-focused investment firm, today announced the creation of a new laboratory-automation platform following recent acquisitions of three complementary companies: Skalar Analytical, PromoChrom Technologies and LCTech. Skalar Analytical, based in Breda, the Netherlands, manufactures a range of chemistry analyzers and laboratory-automation solutions for environmental and agricultural applications. Skalar serves as the foundation for the new platform, while PromoChrom-which is based in Richmond, British Columbia and has a significant North American presence-adds a business focused on automated solid-phase extraction (SPE) sample-preparation solutions. PromoChrom is focused on the rapidly growing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) testing market. LCTech, based in Obertaufkirchen, Germany, offers a broad range of SPE consumables and advanced automation and robotics capabilities, while also providing a strong entry point into food and feed testing with its dioxin-analysis product line. All three companies sell products to major, multi-national commercial testing laboratories and industrial customers across environmental, agricultural, and food-and-beverage end markets, enabling these customers to automate previously manual workflows. The selling shareholder group from Skalar Analytical, led by Rene van der Wagt and Sjaak Furrer, were pleased to partner with Battery to help take Skalar to the next level. "Having developed a relationship with Battery over the past decade, we are excited to see Skalar Analytical flourish under Battery's ownership," said Rene van der Wagt. Sjaak Furrer added: "We had the benefit of watching the Battery team execute their M&A strategy with numerous European companies over the years and are thrilled to see Skalar Analytical as the starting point of a new Battery platform." Battery's goal with the transactions is to create a large, innovative global laboratory automation player; the firm expects to continue pursuing a highly acquisitive growth strategy. As part of this initiative, Battery appointed Amod Kher as Group CEO to drive organic growth and continued M&A, as well as to oversee integration efforts. Kher joins the Skalar Group from Gardner Denver Medical, a segment of Ingersoll Rand, Inc. (NYSE: IR), where he was vice president and general manager. Kher has previous leadership experience across a number of business units within Danaher (NYSE: DHR). The investments come as the market for laboratory-automation continues to grow amid increased labor shortages and higher labor costs; stricter and more complex regulations drive the adoption of more advanced testing methods; and technological advancements make automated laboratory instruments more accessible and easier to use. In addition, environmental testing is increasing overall, partly because of the rising profile of widespread environmental contaminants such as PFAS-known commonly as "forever chemicals" because they are extremely persistent, lasting thousands of years before breaking down-and the convergence of regulatory standards across developed and emerging countries. "Since we started as a family business, every step in navigating the PFAS extraction landscape has been a learning process for us. We are grateful for the successes along the way and proud to be recognized by Battery Ventures as a leader in our field," said Haibin Wan, PromoChrom founder and CEO. "Today, we embark on an exciting new chapter as we join forces with like-minded individuals at Skalar and Battery. This partnership allows us to harness their resources and experience to bring our automation solutions to all corners of the globe while our values towards customer satisfaction and passion for driving efficiency will continue to transcend this collaboration." "We are thrilled to partner with Amod and the respective leaders at Skalar Analytical, PromoChrom, and LCTech to create this new platform," said Zack Smotherman, a Battery general partner. "Having previous experience with lab-automation company SPT Labtech*, we saw firsthand the trend towards automation within the drug-discovery and life-sciences markets and are enthusiastic about creating a new company addressing the same challenges within environmental, agricultural and food applications." Added Battery Principal Justin Rosner: "We see these three companies as established players with entrenched customer networks and distribution channels from Skalar Analytical and LCTech and considerable accelerated growth potential with innovative products from PromoChrom. As a platform, the Skalar Group is poised to capitalize on the opportunity to address emerging contaminants of concern while also improving the efficiency and accuracy of testing at global scale." "I am excited to join forces with Battery, a seasoned industrial-technology investor with extensive experience creating platforms through global M&A," said Kher, the Skalar Group CEO. "I look forward to our partnership as we work together to shape this new venture, guiding the Skalar Group into the next phase of its growth trajectory." *Denotes a Battery portfolio company. For a full list of all Battery investments and exits, click here. About Skalar Analytical Skalar Analytical B.V. is a manufacturer of automated laboratory instrumentation for customers across environmental, agricultural, and food & beverage end markets. Established in 1965, Skalar Analytical has grown into a multinational organization with its own subsidiaries across Europe, North America, and India and with over eighty representatives throughout the world. With nearly 60 years of experience automating wet chemistry analysis procedures, the Skalar Analytical ISO 9001 certified organization has built up a wealth of knowledge and has generated a vast library of information and techniques which support proven applications. Learn more at https://www.skalar.com/. About PromoChrom PromoChrom Technologies Ltd. was founded in 2007 with specialization in liquid handling solutions. With sample preparation being the most challenging and labor-intensive task in trace analysis, PromoChrom's automated SPE instruments help improve the efficiency and data quality in chemical analysis and relieve laboratory staff of labor-intensive routines. Their most notable applications include PFAS extraction and protein purification. Learn more at https://www.promochrom.com/. About LCTech LCTech GmbH has been developing innovative methods for sample preparation for the analysis of environmental, food and feed samples since its founding in 1998. From sample preparation automation to consumables for analysis and training, LCTech offers everything a professional laboratory needs with customers including a long list of renowned institutions across governmental and private laboratories in Food & Feed and Environmental sectors. Learn more at https://www.lctech.de/en. About Battery Battery partners with exceptional founders and management teams developing category-defining businesses in markets including software and services, enterprise infrastructure, consumer tech, healthcare IT and industrial technology and life-science tools. Founded in 1983, the firm backs companies at all stages, ranging from seed and early to growth and buyout, and invests globally from offices in Boston, San Francisco, Menlo Park, New York, London, and Tel Aviv. Follow the firm on X @BatteryVentures, visit our website at www.battery.com and find a full list of Battery's portfolio companies here. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928740238/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Orange Grove Bio Subsidiary Awarded $2.05 Million SBIR Phase II Grant to Advance Development of Novel Platelet Preservation Technology Tweet CINCINNATI, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Orange Grove Bio (OGB), a drug investment and development firm, today announced that Preservation Bio, one of the firms majority-owned subsidiaries, has been awarded a $2.05 million Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) direct-to-Phase II grant by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, one of 27 institutes under the National Institutes of Health (NIH) umbrella. The funding will be used to advance Preservation Bios novel approach to preserving platelets, which is designed to allow donated platelets to survive at refrigeration temperatures for up to 14 days, more than doubling their shelf life. By significantly extending the amount of time that donated platelets remain viable for use in life-saving transfusions, Preservation Bio aims to address the healthcare industrys growing platelet shortage, a major bottleneck in transfusion needs. Unlike red blood and other products, platelets are stored at room temperature because they do not tolerate refrigeration. This results in a short shelf life of five-to-seven days before expiration and up to 15% of all collected platelets are discarded. Preservation Bio seeks to transform blood banking for donated platelets with an ex vivo additive that protects platelets from the damage normally caused by refrigeration. The company is developing a small molecule, reversible RhoA inhibitor (G04) that can be added to platelet storage solution to prevent the cold stress response of irreversible protein clusters (Gplb) which typically renders refrigerated platelets non-viable in vivo. As a result, G04 has the potential to enable more than 14-day functional storage of platelets in the refrigerator, doubling the storage time of current room temperature-limited platelets and decreasing the risk of bacterial contamination in one single inventory for blood centers. The SBIR grant will help fund Preservation Bios continued advancement of G04 through preclinical development and toward the clinic. We are excited to receive this grant from the NIH, along with the important validation of the award. With more than eight million platelet units donated yearly, the global platelet market is estimated to be at least $4 billion. Despite its size, this market is severely impacted by inefficiencies related to shelf life, storage, and shipping - all of which contribute to financial loss while creating challenges for health care delivery, said Rich Ganz, chief executive officer of Preservation Bio. We believe that by enabling safe refrigeration of donated platelets, G04 has the potential to transform the way these blood products are stored and used, offering enhanced patient care while addressing a significant and untapped commercial market. We look forward to leveraging this NIH grant funding to accelerate our ongoing development efforts for G04 as we work to move the program toward the clinic. Orange Grove Bio Senior Advisory Board Appointments In additional corporate news, Orange Grove Bio announced the appointments of Abul Abbas, MBBS, Thomas F Bumol, Ph.D., and James Wooldridge, M.D., to its board of senior advisors. These appointments further strengthen Orange Groves expanding team of advisors and support the companys mission of developing new therapeutics for patients by harnessing the significant research potential in universities and academic medical centers across the United States. Dr. Abbas is a renowned researcher in the field of immunology, with a specific focus on the control of immune response and causes of autoimmunity. His laboratory is credited with using experimental models to analyze the generation and maintenance of regulatory T cells. Dr. Abbas has taught immunology at Harvard University and the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), the latter at which he served as professor and chairman of the department of pathology for nearly 20 years. He has received a number of prestigious honors and awards, including being elected to the National Academy of Medicine and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and is credited with publishing more than two hundred peer-reviewed papers and invited reviews. Dr. Bumol, a pioneer in deep longitudinal immune profiling of the human immune system, was formerly the founding director and executive vice president of the Allen Institute for Immunology in Seattle. Before that he was the senior vice president of Eli Lillys biotechnology division and the immunology therapeutic area, as well as site head and president of the companys biotechnology center in San Diego. During his more than 35 years with Lilly, his teams and collaborators discovered and engineered/optimized over one hundred clinical candidates, resulting thus far in eight commercialized therapeutics including Trulicity , Mounjaro , Emgality and Taltz . , Mounjaro , Emgality and Taltz . Dr. Wooldridge is an experienced medical oncologist, drug-developer, and biotech executive, with almost 25 years in academia, large pharma, and biotech, including public and private companies. He most recently served as chief medical officer of Checkmate Pharmaceuticals, where he assisted in taking the company public and led the development of vidutolimod in registration-directed and expanded proof-of-concept studies until Regeneron acquired the company in May 2022. Earlier in his career, Dr. Wooldridge spent more than a decade at Eli Lilly, where he led the early phase development of several cancer compounds, was head of oncology U.S. medical affairs, and served as chief scientific officer for immuno-oncology clinical development. Opening of New Headquarters Orange Grove Bio has also announced the formal opening of its new corporate headquarters in the PNC Center, a 27-floor office tower located within Cincinnatis business district. To celebrate its opening, the company hosted an open house yesterday, September 27. 2023 has been a very active time for Orange Grove Bio as we continue to build the firms presence in the U.S. and abroad, strengthen relationships with our growing stable of academic collaborators, and support our majority owned subsidiaries. Preservation Bio is the latest example of an Orange Grove Bio company that has achieved a key milestone in its quest to develop impactful therapeutics for patients in need and we are pleased to see the financial support provided by the NIH SBIR grant, said Marc Appel, Orange Grove Bios chief executive officer. At the same time, we are continuing to build a large and talented team of advisors with expertise that spans all aspects of the drug discovery and development business. The additions of Abul, Tom and Jim to our senior advisory board highlight the momentum we are achieving in this area and provide impressive experience that will help continue to guide the firms mission and activities. Ryan Fox, Orange Grove Bios chief operating officer and head of the firms Cincinnati office added, We are thrilled to formally move our headquarters into the prestigious PNC Center in the heart of Cincinnatis business center. This location helps to solidify our connection and commitment to this important emerging hub of biotechnology excellence. Orange Grove Bios mission is to develop new therapeutic options for patients by harnessing the significant research potential found in universities and academic medical centers across the United States and internationally. Orange Grove Bio fosters strong relationships with technology transfer offices outside of the traditional medical technology hubs of Boston and San Francisco. Collectively, Orange Grove Bios team possesses decades of drug development and company creation experience, allowing it to build and finance innovative programs from the research and development stage to clinical trials. About Orange Grove Bio Orange Grove Bio (OGB) is a capital allocation and asset development biotech company. OGB partners with universities, academic medical centers, and entrepreneurs to develop innovative treatments for important diseases, particularly cancer and immune disorders. Learn more at: www.orangegrovebio.com Trulicity, Mounjaro, Emgality and Taltz are registered trademarks owned or licensed by Eli Lilly and Company, its subsidiaries, or affiliates. Contacts: Orange Grove Bio Taylor Negrete [email protected] (513) 448-2499 Vida Strategic Partners (on behalf of Orange Grove Bio) Tim Brons (Media) [email protected] (415) 674-7402 [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Deluxe and Aliaswire Partner to Modernize Digital Bill Pay for Banks and Businesses Tweet MINNEAPOLIS, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Deluxe (NYSE:DLX), a Trusted Payments and Data company, and fintech Aliaswire, Inc. have announced a new partnership that will introduce Aliaswire's DirectBiller bill payment technology across the extensive Deluxe network of banks, partners, and direct clients. This collaboration highlights the significant opportunity to digitize more business payments. "Our goal is to facilitate our clients' transition to digital payment offerings," explained Michael Reed, Division President of B2B Payments at Deluxe. "Deluxe has been providing digital payment solutions to our customers for some time, and now, in partnership with Aliaswire, we aim to extend our reach. This expansion provides Deluxe with a strategic advantage, as the capabilities are seamlessly embedded in our Merchant Services Platform, First American, offering a comprehensive online payment processing experience for our clients." Recognizing the unique payment preferences of each client, this partnership seeks to enhance digital processing solutions, enabling businesses to send bills, accept payments, and access funds in accordance with their preferences. The integration of DirectBiller into the Deluxe platform amplifies its capabilities, broadens Deluxes outreach, and fortifies its ability to serve a more diverse range of clients. Deluxe is one of the most trusted and respected providers in the anking industry with thousands of financial institution clients, said Jed Rice, CEO of Aliaswire. They are a perfect fit for DirectBiller, the only independent biller direct platform delivered primarily through channel partners. Were excited to partner with Deluxe as more banks look to actively incorporate online bill pay into their integrated receivables offerings to generate reliable revenue and build stickier client relationships in an unstable environment. DirectBiller is a highly adaptable platform employed by leading banks and their commercial clients, spanning small and mid-sized companies to Fortune 500 enterprises. It manages the entire process from invoicing through payment reconciliation, seamlessly integrating with banks' treasury management systems and their clients' ERP systems. Businesses can effortlessly transmit digital bills, accept digital payments, and receive funds on the following business day. Payers can conveniently view bills and make payments via web, mobile, IVR, kiosk, Text2Pay, and digital wallets. About Deluxe Deluxe, a Trusted Payments and Data company, champions business so communities thrive. Our solutions help businesses pay, get paid, and grow. For more than 100 years, Deluxe customers have relied on our solutions and platforms at all stages of their lifecycle, from start-up to maturity. Our powerful scale supports millions of small businesses, thousands of vital financial institutions and hundreds of the worlds largest consumer brands, while processing approximately $3 trillion in annual payment volume. Our reach, scale and distribution channels position Deluxe to be our customers most trusted business partner. To learn how we can help your business, visit us at www.deluxe.com. About Aliaswire, Inc. Aliaswire is a fintech company based in Boston with a history of innovation in payments. The company supports leading financial institutions and their close to 1,000 clients with modern B2C and B2C bill pay capabilities through its DirectBiller platform. Citi, Bank United, BMO, East West Bank, Pacific Premier Bank and MUFG are just some of the institutions serving their commercial customers payment needs with DirectBiller. For more information, visit https://www.aliaswire.com. Press Contacts: Tim Walsh 617.512.1641 [email protected] Keith Negrin, VP, Communications 612-669-1459 [email protected] [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Key Insights The projected fair value for Diaceutics is UK0.89 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity With UK1.05 share price, Diaceutics appears to be trading close to its estimated fair value Analyst price target for DXRX is UK1.72, which is 93% above our fair value estimate In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of Diaceutics PLC (LON:DXRX) by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. Our analysis will employ the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Before you think you won't be able to understand it, just read on! It's actually much less complex than you'd imagine. Remember though, that there are many ways to estimate a company's value, and a DCF is just one method. Anyone interested in learning a bit more about intrinsic value should have a read of the Simply Wall St analysis model. View our latest analysis for Diaceutics 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. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, so we need to discount the sum of these future cash flows to arrive at a present value estimate: 10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (, Millions) -UK3.04m UK1.38m UK2.06m UK2.79m UK3.48m UK4.11m UK4.64m UK5.08m UK5.44m UK5.73m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x3 Analyst x3 Est @ 49.67% Est @ 35.18% Est @ 25.04% Est @ 17.94% Est @ 12.97% Est @ 9.50% Est @ 7.06% Est @ 5.36% Present Value (, Millions) Discounted @ 6.8% -UK2.9 UK1.2 UK1.7 UK2.1 UK2.5 UK2.8 UK2.9 UK3.0 UK3.0 UK3.0 ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = UK19m 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 1.4%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 6.8%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033 (1 + g) (r g) = UK5.7m (1 + 1.4%) (6.8% 1.4%) = UK107m Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= UK107m ( 1 + 6.8%)10= UK56m The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is UK75m. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of UK1.1, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. The assumptions in any calculation have a big impact on the valuation, so it is better to view this as a rough estimate, not precise down to the last cent. dcf The Assumptions Now the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate, and of course, the actual cash flows. You don't have to agree with these inputs, I recommend redoing the calculations yourself and playing with them. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Diaceutics as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 6.8%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.916. 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 Diaceutics Strength Currently debt free. Weakness Earnings declined over the past year. Opportunity Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the British market. Good value based on P/S ratio compared to estimated Fair P/S ratio. Threat Revenue is forecast to grow slower than 20% per year. Moving On: Valuation is only one side of the coin in terms of building your investment thesis, and it shouldn't be the only metric you look at when researching a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. For Diaceutics, we've put together three further elements you should further examine: Risks: Every company has them, and we've spotted 1 warning sign for Diaceutics you should know about. Management:Have insiders been ramping up their shares to take advantage of the market's sentiment for DXRX's future outlook? Check out our management and board analysis with insights on CEO compensation and governance factors. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered! PS. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the AIM 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. [September 28, 2023] Lewis Latimer Fellowship Program Hosts Memorial Event Celebrating Namesake Tweet Historic event commemorates the life and achievements of Innovator Lewis Howard Latimer, headstone unveiled to adorn renowned inventor's resting place FALL RIVER, Mass, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Lewis Latimer Fellowship Program , an organization dedicated to providing special access and mentorship to a select group of exceptional Black innovators, hosted the Lewis Howard Latimer Memorial Program on September 23rd, 2023. The commemorative occasion celebrated the life and legacy of renowned inventor Lewis Latimer, whose vast scientific contributions to modern society were largely unrecognized during his lifetime. The event culminated in an unveiling and placement of the innovator's headstone, created by sculptor and artist Stan Mullins . "This is the culmination of three years of hard work," said Jonathan Cropper, co-Founder at the Latimer Fellowship Program. "When we created the Lewis Latimer Fellowship Program, we felt it was critically important to create and elevate new 'superheroes' that young Black kids can look up to and aspire to be. And when we learned about Latimer and that he was laid to rest here without a tombstone, we simply had to right that wrong." Latimer's carefully crafted headstone offers long-overdue acknowledgment of his life's work and achievements. The memorial ceremony was attended b Latimer Fellows past and present, the executive director of the Lewis Latimer House Museum in New York, as well as Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan and members of the Latimer Family. Founded in April of 2021 by Frank Bonafilia, Dr. Carmichael Roberts, and Jonathan Cropper, the Lewis Latimer Fellowship Program is an extension of The Edison Awards, a globally recognized annual competition that has served as a leader in recognizing, honoring, and fostering innovation for more than 30 years. For more information about the Latimer Fellowship Program, visit http://www.latimerfellows.com . Applications for the next round of innovative Latimer Fellows will open soon. About The Lewis Latimer Fellowship Program The Lewis Latimer Fellowship Program is an organization dedicated to providing special access and mentorship to a select group of exceptional Black innovators. Founded in April 2021, the organization centers around the tenets of technological, behavioral, futuristic, systematic, and design-oriented thinking to transform innovation and combine ideas across cultures. The Lewis Latimer Fellowship Program employs a one-year, hybrid learning experience designed to help participants unlock the potential of exponentially advancing technologies and provide them the resources to build societally beneficial and profitable new ideas. About The Edison Awards Established in 1987, The Edison Awards mission is to be a leader in globally recognizing, honoring and fostering innovation and innovators to create a positive impact in the world among the most prestigious accolades honoring excellence in new product and service development, marketing, human centered design and innovation. Our vision is continually guided by the legacy and vision of Thomas Edison and his Menlo Park team that successfully brought an unprecedented number of innovations to the market. Contact: Johann Hamilton Account Supervisor Relevance International [email protected] +1.212.257.1500 Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2234035/The_Lewis_Latimer_Fellowship_Program.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2234036/The_Lewis_Latimer_Fellowship_Program_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lewis-latimer-fellowship-program-hosts-memorial-event-celebrating-namesake-301941428.html SOURCE The Lewis Latimer Fellowship Program [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] iLamp Oregon Sells Sublicense Territory of Multnomah County, Paving the Way for Smart Street Lamp Innovation MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- iLamp Oregon is thrilled to announce the sale of the sublicense territory of Multnomah County, in partnership with entrepreneur and investor Ron Wilkinson. This milestone marks the beginning of a transformative era for green-powered smart street lamps in Multnomah County and sets the stage for a brighter, more sustainable future for clean energy. Revolutionizing Green-Powered Smart Street Lamps iLamp Oregon is at the forefront of innovation with its cutting-edge autonomous powered street lights, designed to harness clean energy while simultaneously generating revenue for developers, utilities, universities, and businesses throughout towns and cities across Oregon. Patrice Tsague, CEO of iLamp Oregon, emphasized the signiicance of this partnership, stating, "This collaboration is a pivotal step in our broader strategy aimed at introducing iLamp to all 36 counties in the State of Oregon." A Native's Dedication to Green Energy Born and raised as a native of Multnomah County, Ron Wilkinson, Owner of iLamp Multnomah County, is deeply committed to supporting Oregon's green energy initiatives. He eagerly anticipates the opportunity to introduce iLamp's Smart City Street lights to Multnomah County, contributing to the county's green energy goals. About iLamp Oregon iLamp Oregon is a leading autonomous green technology company dedicated to developing and implementing smart LED streetlight systems that generate their own power. Our vision is rooted in unwavering integrity, environmental stewardship, continuous research, and the deployment of emerging green technologies. We are dedicated to providing reliable, safe, and affordable renewable energy solutions to our customers and partners. Contact Information For more information, please visit our website at https://oregon.ilamp.com or contact: Patrice Tsague CEO, iLamp Oregon Phone: 240-494-6638 Email: [email protected] Media Inquiries Phone: 240-494-6638 Email: [email protected] Address 2808 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Suite G Oregon, 97212 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ilamp-oregon-sells-sublicense-territory-of-multnomah-county-paving-the-way-for-smart-street-lamp-innovation-301941048.html SOURCE Oregon iLamp [September 28, 2023] At-Bay Appoints Kristie Felton as Head of Insurance Tweet At-Bay, the insurance provider for the digital age, announced today the recent appointment of Kristie Felton as Head of Insurance. A highly accomplished industry veteran with more than two decades of experience in insurance, Felton was previously Head of Partnerships at At-Bay, having joined the company in 2020, before she transitioned to Interim Head of Insurance in March 2023. Felton's long-tenured history cultivating specialty insurance growth through traditional and alternative distribution channels is what led leadership to recognize her as the best candidate to fill the Head of Insurance position long-term. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928617905/en/ Kristie Felton appointed to At-Bay Head of Insurance (Photo: Business Wire) "Kristie is a phenomenal leader and has been doing an incredible job leading our underwriting organization. We're very excited to see our team continue to flourish under her leadership," said Rotem Iram, CEO and Co-Founder of At-Bay. "I am personally excited for the opportunity to work more closely with Kristie and benefit from her leadership and experience in the executive team." As At-Bay's head of insurance, Felton is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction and execution of all At-Bay's underwriting, partnerships and field operations, including its world-class underwriting team and underwriting technicians. Ensuring At-Bay's continued market leadership in underwriting profitability and customer service excellence, Felton will continue to grow At-Bay's position as a leading E&S provider. "I am honored to join At-Bay's executive leadership team and take on this position on a permanent basis," said Felton, At-Bay's new Head of Insurance. "At-Bay is a company that always delivers exceptional results for its valued partners, people, and customers. I'm excited to have the opportunity to continue to lead the underwriting organization into its next phase of growth." About At-Bay At-Bay is the InsurSec provider for the digital age. By combining world-class cybersecurity technology with industry-leading insurance expertise, At-Bay was designed from the ground up to empower businesses to thrive in the digital world by providing end-to-end prevention and protection. A full-stack insurance company, At-Bay offers Cyber, Tech E&O and Miscellaneous Professional Liability (MPL) policies. At-Bay is backed by Acrew Capital, Glilot Capital, the HSB fund of Munich Re Ventures, Icon Ventures, ION Crossover Partners, Khosla Ventures, Lightspeed Venture Partners, M12, entrepreneur Shlomo Kramer, and Qumra Capital. www.at-bay.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928617905/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Represented by The Campos Firm, Roberto Antonio Garay Saravia, a Former U.S.-Trained Salvadoran Special Forces Colonel, Has Been Exonerated Tweet The Campos Firm, with a focus on Immigration law and Federal Criminal Defense, today announced that it has secured a legal victory for its client, Robert Antonio Garay Saravia. Arrested in April 2023 in New Jersey, Garay Saravia was accused by The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) of assisting or otherwise participating in extrajudicial killings for his alleged role in El Mozote, a tragic event that occurred in El Salvador in December 1981 during the country's civil war that resulted in the death of many civilians. Additionally, Garay Saravia was accused of willful misrepresentation on his application to enter the United States as a Permanent Resident. In the landmark decision, the U.S. Department of Justice has cleared Garay Saravia of all three charges following his arrest by ICE's Enforcement and Removal Operations officers and Homeland Security Investigations agents. The judgement officially exonerates Garay Saravia and, as a result, permits him to reside in the United States rather than face deportation. "Today, we are pleased to announce that Roberto Antonio Garay Saravia has been vindicated of all charges brought against him by the United States Government," stated Jose Campos, Esq., Managing Attorney, The Campos Firm. "While we acknowledge that tragic events, including the loss of lives, take place during civil wars and the Salvadoran civil war is no exception, our client simply is not the man the U.S. government accused him of being. Following a thorough and impartial judicial process, it has been determined that th accusations against Mr. Garay Saravia are unfounded. We are grateful that this is behind him, and that he may now move on with his life." This exoneration marks a significant turning point in the life of Roberto Antonio Garay Saravia, who has long maintained his innocence in this matter. It is a testament to the principles of justice and due process upheld by the United States legal system. "Mr. Garay Saravia wants the world to know that this verdict, and the commitment of our firm, have given him a chance to reclaim his life," stated Jose Campos, Esq., The Campos Firm. "Our firm has always believed in Mr. Garay Saravia, and we worked vigorously to advocate for him. He expressed that he is truly grateful and looks forward to moving past this challenging time." In a press release issued by DHS addressing Mr. Garay Saravia's arrest, former DHS Deputy Secretary John K. Tien stated, "Individuals who have committed atrocities overseas will not find safe haven in the United States." While this statement underscores the commitment of the United States to uphold justice, it also underscores the importance of a fair and thorough examination of each case, ensuring that innocent people are not wrongly accused. In this case, the exoneration of Roberto Antonio Garay Saravia demonstrates the commitment to justice and fairness that underpins the values of the United States. The link for the case decision can be found here. About The Campos Law Firm Founded in 2008, The Campos Firm is a leading national law firm serving clients across the United States. The firm provides counsel in various arenas including federal criminal defense, complex immigration defense, and appellate advocacy. The firm is dedicated to providing the highest level of legal services and is built on the belief that the firm only succeeds when its clients do. Founder Jose C. Campos has received multiple recognitions for excellence year over year. The firm has offices in Pennsylvania, California, and New York City. For more visit jccamposlaw.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928615485/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Lithium Energi Exploration Commences Strategic Review Tweet Lithium Energi Exploration Inc. (TSXV: LEXI) ("LEXI" or the "Company"), a green energy company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of lithium brine assets in Argentina, announced today that it will form a special committee (the "Special Committee") of independent directors to initiate with the CEO a review process to explore, review and evaluate a broad range of strategic alternatives that may be available to the Company to unlock shareholder value. The Special Committee's strategic review process will encompass an evaluation of a full range of alternatives, including equity market transactions, disposition of certain assets, or a potential sale or merger, including an assessment of preliminary non-binding discussions with certain parties regarding an acquisition of all or substantially all of the Company's assets or equity. From 2018 through May 2023, approximately $10.9 billion were invested in lithium assets in Argentina, making it one of the fastest growing markets in the Lithium Triangle, a region that contains approximately 56% of global lithium resources. As international interest in the acquisition, exploration, and development of lithium brine increases, LEXI believes this is the ideal time to evaluate and consider the full range of alternatives available to the Company to deliver value for its shareholders while strengthening scale to ensure its promising assets in Argentina can be quickly, fully, and optimally developed and utilized to the benefit of all stakeholders. "LEXI has consolidated a world-class property portfolio consisting of approximately 72,000 hectares in the Lithium Triangle, one of the largest producing markets in the world. Our success implementing the new management team's strategy, particularly the operational aptitude demonstrated by the quick rollout of our drilling program has successfully garnered the attention and interest of several parties on a potential sale," said Ali Rahman, Chief Executive Officer and Director of LEXI. "We recognize that the interest in our success and well-located assets warrants a comprehensive strategic review to examine the full range of available alternatives. As we consider the future of the Company, we are committed to expanding the potential outcome of LEXI's assets and realizing value for all our stakeholders." While the strategic review process is ongoing, the Company intends to continue to pursue its core strategic objectives so as to maintain and enhance the value of its current exploration assets in Argentina. "Arena is supportive of LEXI's contemplation of different strategic alternatives, as well as its continued ongoing efforts in drilling and exploring its vast property portfolio. We have repeatedly invested in LEXI, and believe the time is right to unlock value in the Lithium Triangle and from LEXI's assets," stated Vincent DeVito, Managing Director of Arena Investors, LP, LEXI's largest shareholder. To maximize the value of LEXI's portfolio of lithum brine assets, the Special Committee will retain a qualified investment bank as a financial advisor to assist in conducting the strategic review. There can be no assurance that the strategic review and the preliminary non-binding discussions will result in any binding offer or any other transaction, or of the pricing of any such possible transaction. LEXI will release further information at an appropriate time. About Lithium Energi Exploration Inc. Lithium Energi Exploration Inc. is an exploration company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of lithium brine assets in Argentina. Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, with offices in Catamarca, Argentina, the Company's shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV: LEXI), the Frankfurt Exchange (FSE: L09), and the U.S. over-the-counter market (OTC: LXENF). LEXI's portfolio of prospective lithium brine concessions in the Argentina Province of Catamarca (heart of the lithium triangle) includes approximately 57,000 hectares and a 20% interest in Triangle Lithium Argentina, S.A., which owns an additional 15,000 hectares - all located in and around the Antofalla Salar, one of the largest basins in the region, which is over 130 km long and up to 20 km across. LEXI is committed to innovation, sustainability, and quality, striving to differentiate itself from other players in the industry to maximize its potential for success. For more information, please visit our website at lithiumenergi.com. About Arena Investors, LP Arena Investors, LP is an institutional asset manager founded in partnership with The Westaim Corporation (TSXV: WED). With approximately $3.5 billion of assets under management as of December 31, 2022, and a team of over 100 employees in offices globally, Arena provides creative solutions for those seeking capital in special situations. The firm brings individuals with decades of experience, a track record of comfort with complexity, the ability to deliver within time constraints, and the flexibility to engage in transactions that cannot be addressed by banks and other conventional financial institutions. See www.arenaco.com for more information. The TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV") has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. 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 release. Forward-Looking Information Certain information regarding LEXI and its business presented in this news release may constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information generally can be identified by the use of terms and phrases such as "anticipate", "believe", "could", "estimate", "expect", "feel", "intend", "may", "plan", "predict", "project", "subject to", "will", "would", and similar terms and phrases. Forward-looking information is based on a number of key expectations and assumptions made by management of LEXI, including, without limitation: the considerations and outcome of the strategic review and preliminary non-binding discussions with certain parties; no change to laws or regulations that negatively affect LEXI's business; no unanticipated expenses, costs or detrimental consequences of the strategic review process will arise, and the continuation of the Company's core strategic objectives, so as to preserve and enhance the value of the Company's current assets. Forward-looking information is provided for the purpose of presenting information about management's current expectations and plans relating to the future and readers are cautioned that such statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking information inherently entails known and unknown risks and uncertainties about the future and actual results and involves significant risks and uncertainties and should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results as actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking information. Although LEXI has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information presented, there may be other factors that cause results, performance or achievements to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements as no forward-looking information can be guaranteed. Except as required by applicable securities laws, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and LEXI does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928600629/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] UnifabriX announces the expansion of its MAX memory and storage machine Early Access Program to include leading AI players Tweet Following successful showcases at the HPC User Forum and Intel Innovation, UnifabriX is expanding its Early Access Program (EAP) for its MAX memory and storage machine. The strong interest and positive feedback from the AI community at these events have underscored the demand and accelerated the decision to include leading AI players in the EAP. HAIFA, Israel, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- UnifabriX, the company redefining memory composability with its innovative MAX memory and storage machine, today announces the expansion of its Early Access Program (EAP). MAX is a comprehensive, easy-to-deploy memory and storage solution crafted for rigorous High-Performance Computing (HPC) and AI workloads. MAX is powered by advanced software and hardware-based Memory Pooling, Sharing, Tiering, and Acceleration mechanisms. These features ensure enhanced memory bandwidth and capacity, guarantee peak performance, eliminate memory stranding, and improve the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Adhering to the latest CXL specification and industry RAS standards affirms MAX as a reliable and future-proof solution. The power of MAX has been demonstrated at recent exhibitions such as the HPC User Forum and Intel Innovation whre UnifabriX showcased a performance boost of up to 10sX across five different industry benchmarks, some known for being the most notorious ones with respect to memory requirements. As the rise of GenAI demands heightened computational resources and grapples with data explosion, many have posited that the solution lies in adding more GPUs. Yet, experts increasingly spotlight the frequently neglected bottleneck of memory bandwidth. This concern was accentuated at recent events where UnifabrIX MAX was showcased, emphasizing the paramount importance of advanced memory solutions. Based on recent industry revelations and the feedback gathered, UnifabriX is broadening its Early Access Program (EAP). After already signing agreements with leading High-Performance Computing (HPC) entities for the validation of its MAX, the company is now expanding its EAP to also include companies enhancing their on-prem/cloud data centers to handle AI workloads. Enroll Now: To join the program, please contact UnifabriX at: [email protected] About UnifabriX: UnifabriX is a visionary company committed to redefining memory composability with its innovative MAX memory and storage machine, ensuring organizations are fully equipped to meet the challenges of HPC and AI workloads. Founded in 2020, UnifabriX are pioneers in CXL and a major contributor to the standard. For more information, visit: https://www.unifabrix.com Contact: Email: [email protected] View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/unifabrix-announces-the-expansion-of-its-max-memory-and-storage-machine-early-access-program-to-include-leading-ai-players-301941626.html SOURCE UnifabriX [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Accredible Secures Series B Funding Led by Frontier Growth Tweet Accredible, the world's leading digital credentialing platform, today announced the closing of its Series B financing led by Frontier Growth with participation by new and existing investors, including The Stephens Group, PivotNorth, and Uncork Capital. The latest investment will continue accelerating Accredible's growth and product innovation to meet the global demand for its platform from universities, associations, and technology companies looking to create and grow their digital credential programs. Since its founding in 2013, Accredible has helped leading organizations streamline creating, issuing, managing, and verifying digital certificates and badges with its digital credentialing platform. Over 2,000 customers such as Skillsoft, Slack, IEEE, Cengage, and MIT rely on Accredible to issue and verify over 75 million career-advancing credentials on their behalf. "With the explosion of skills-based hiring and the global demand for workers to upskill and reskill, 2023 has been a true watershed moment for the digital credential industry," said Danny King, CEO and co-founder of Accredible. "We're hearing from education, training, and association leaders that digital credentials have evolved to become the primary credentialing format for high-stakes credentials and are now a 'need to have' to keep pace with the future of work and education. The momentum we're seeing validates our belief that while achieving certifications should be tough, managing and growing programs shouldn't be." "We are delighted to partner with Accredible in their journey to accelerate the immutable trend of digitalization of the credential market," said Andrew Lindner, Founding Partner of Frontier Capital, who will join the Accredible Board of Directors. "Accredible has emerged as the leading platform for third-party issuers of digital credentials with a particular focus on driving more revenue and better retention for their clients. This growth equity investment will enable the company to continue enhancing its line of credential products, offering even more value to their customers while providing an exceptional customer experience for the recipients of credentials." "We are excited to partner with the Accredible team as they continue to execute on their vision to bring credentialing into the digital world," said Ryan Morrow, Principal at the Stephens Group. "Through our ed tech vertical, we identified the need for more efficient management of credentials as they have become an increasingly critical component of the modern educational jorney. Students now earn numerous credentials throughout their careers, and Accredible's solution enables the efficient management of these credentials, both for the issuer and student." The investment comes on the heels of Accredible being named to the 2023 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies and Best SaaS Product for Learning Management or Training by the 2023 SaaS Awards. Accredible was also recently named as one of Inc.'s Best Workplaces for 2023 and No. 25 on the 2023 WorkLife 50 list. To learn more about Accredible's open positions or to apply, visit https://careers.accredible.com. About Accredible Accredible is the industry-leading digital credentialing platform that securely issues, manages, tracks, and verifies over 75 million career-advancing credentials globally. Accredible integrates with learning software, including Canvas, D2L Brightspace, Kajabi, Kryterion Webassessor, Moodle, Thinkific, and more. Over 2,000 leading universities, associations, and technology companies such as Google, Skillsoft, Slack, Chartered Banker Institute, University of Cambridge, AMPP, Hootsuite, IEEE, Cengage, MIT, Rutgers, UC Berkeley, AMBA, and The Digital Marketing Institute rely on Accredible to create, deliver, and manage digital certificates and open badges. To learn more, visit accredible.com. About Frontier Growth Frontier Growth supports the growth of software companies in the lower middle market by deploying both investment capital and operational expertise. The firm was founded with a culture that puts People Before Numbers because it's people that lead to real growth. With over 20 years of experience, Frontier respects that each of its companies represents someone's life's work. It's why the firm's explicit focus is to help them grow without stifling the innovation that's made them successful. Please visit www.frontiergrowth.com for more information. About The Stephens Group, LLC The Stephens Group, LLC is a private investment firm that partners with talented management teams to help build valuable businesses. Backed by the resources of the Witt Stephens, Jr. and Elizabeth Campbell families, the firm combines the operational expertise of a private equity firm with the flexibility provided by long-term capital. With nearly $2 billion of private equity assets under management, the firm has a long history of providing informed, sophisticated expertise and working with owners and managers to help them successfully achieve their strategic visions and build long-term value. Since 2006, The Stephens Group has invested in over 50 companies, targeting investments in industries across the U.S., including industrial and commercial products and services, specialty distribution, technology infrastructure, and vertical software. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928067831/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Wealth.com Adds Brian Hamburger as Strategic Advisor to Elevate Estate Planning Solutions Tweet Wealth.com, the industry's leading estate planning platform, today announced Brian Hamburger, JD, CRCP, as a strategic advisor. Hamburger is the founder, president and chief executive officer of MarketCounsel, the leading business and regulatory compliance consulting firm to the country's preeminent entrepreneurial independent investment advisers. With an unmatched expertise in the compliance and regulatory space, Hamburger's insightful perspective on advisors' needs, combined with the trust he has earned within the advisory community, stands to significantly advance the Wealth.com vision. This vision emphasizes equipping advisors to better serve their clients with best-in-class technology and human expertise. With a unique understanding of the wealth management industry, Hamburger is also set to play an active role in educating advisors on the advantages of tech-enabled estate planning. As the "advisors' advisor," Hamburger has, over the past two decades, consistently championed solutions that address the challenges advisors face in a fast-growing and highly regulated industry. "Our work leaves us well-positioned to understand the challenges advisors face in working with their clients and identify elegant solutions that help address them," said Hamburger. "Estate planning has long been an area that offers great potential for advisors to provide incredible value but advisors have lacked an appropriate toolset to capitalize on that oppotunity. I've been enamored by Wealth.com and its commitment to help advisors fill that void. As a strategic advisor to the company, I'm eager to articulate advisors' needs and ensure that they remain at the forefront of Wealth.com's growth priorities." In 2020, Investment Advisor Magazine honored Hamburger with a spot on The IA25, its annual list of the industry's most influential figures. He was also named to the InvestmentNews' class of Icons & Innovators in 2020, which recognizes visionaries who have shaped and transformed the financial advice profession. Now, as a leading consultant and advocate for independent advisors, Hamburger will focus on narrowing the knowledge gap between advisors and clients when it comes to estate planning. Hamburger is admitted to the bars of New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and the District of Columbia, as well as the U.S. Supreme Court. He has worked with the Certified Financial Planner Board and various industry boards to shape industry standards. A member of the FINRA Dispute Resolution Board, Hamburger has also arbitrated for the New York Stock Exchange. He graduated from Quinnipiac College with a dual major in economics and financial management and earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Miami School of Law. "Brian Hamburger's name is synonymous with confidence and steadfastness," added Tim White, chief partnership officer at Wealth.com. "The input that Brian has brought to the industry over the last two decades has been consistently reliable and insightful. Our goal is to harness the trust he has cultivated, coupled with his legal acumen, to foster confidence in estate planning and transform the advisor experience." Last month, Wealth.com announced its inaugural strategic advisor, fellow luminary Tyrone Ross. Together, Ross and Hamburger join to advance Wealth.com's mission of modernizing estate planning through innovative technology. Wealth.com is the only tech-led end-to-end estate planning solution built specifically for financial advisors. Whether it is frictionless onboarding, intuitive plan creation, clean visualizations or proactive insights, Wealth.com addresses every step of the estate planning journey while providing full coverage across all U.S. jurisdictions. To learn more, please email [email protected]. About Wealth.com Wealth.com is the industry's leading estate planning platform. It empowers financial advisors to provide a modern, comprehensive and sophisticated estate planning solution to their clients. Wealth.com's in-house trust and estate attorneys designed and maintain the platform daily to deliver the legal rigor and quality that is expected from top firms. All easily accessed by both advisor and client in a collaborative digital ecosystem. Wealth.com is optimized for, and available in, all 50 U.S. states and D.C. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928548422/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] VeeamON Resiliency Summit Showcases How Organizations Can Confront, Contain and Conquer Ransomware Tweet Veeam Software, the leader in Data Protection and Ransomware Recovery, today announced the VeeamON Resiliency Summit taking place online Tuesday, Oct. 24. More than 450,000 enterprises around the world rely on Veeam - the #1 provider worldwide in the Data Replication & Protection software marketi - to ensure cyber resilience and rapid recovery from ransomware and cyber-attacks. The Veeam Ransomware Trends Report 2023 shows that today it's not about if your organization will be the target of a cyber-attack, but how often. This free online half-day event will help all organizations prepare and plan for security incidents, as well as confront, contain and conquer ransomware by uniting IT, security and technology. "At Veeam, our mission is to help every company in the world not only bounce back from an outage or data loss, but to bounce forward," said Anand Eswaran, CEO at Veeam. "We call this idea radical resilience - it's what we care about and what our customers do after they recover. By providing the shortest gap between incidents and recovery, our customers can keep their business running, growing and moving ahead." During the online event, Veeam will unveil new Veeam Data Platform updates for 23H2, which include new security and ransomware protection functionality for Veeam Backup & Replication, Veeam ONE and Veeam Recovery Orchestrator. This new release of the Veeam Data Platform delivers more advanced data security, malware detection, automated recovery, and hybrid cloud capabilities across the entire IT environment - Multi-Cloud, Virtual, Hybrid, Physical, SaaS (Microsoft 365, Salesforce) and Kubernetes. Veeam Backup & Replication, the foundation of the Veeam Data Platform, provides best-in-class secure backup and fast reliable recovery from every cyber treat including ransomware, to keep business resilient and running. Through this platform approach, every environment however complex, can be secured and recovered rapidly when it counts most, defeating ransomware attacks and ensuring maximum efficiency and reliability. Veeam Data Platform Premium pairs the expansive backup and recovery features of Veeam Backup & Replication with powerful monitoring, analytics and compliance capabilities of Veeam ONE and the compliance testing and orchestration benefits of Veeam Recovery Orchestrator to provide users with the best security posture for radical resilience. Joining Veeam CEO Anand Eswaran and Veeam CTO Danny Allan for keynote sessions will be Bryan Seely, a cyber security expert, ethical hacker, author and former U.S. Marine. Seely will share a hacker's perspective on the realities of designing data resilience for the next cyber threat. Susan M. Gordon, former Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence of the United States of America and a 30-year veteran of the intelligence community, will also join Eswaran for a session to discuss the evolving cyber security landscape. Veeam will introduce a new security program during the event which includes a certification to ensure users have the utmost confidence in the event of a security incident that they are able to restore from clean, reliable backups. Additionally, Veeam will announce the latest security alliance partnerships for a more complete security ecosystem. The event will point attendees to key deep dive sessions across the Veeam portfolio, which will have bonus content on new and existing offerings that focus on key cyber resilience preparedness. A partner-focused track will include key updates, architectural blueprints for customer certifications and peace of mind, and how to bring robust cyber-resilient solutions to market. Free registration is now open for VeeamON Resiliency Summit: https://www.veeam.com/veeamon-resiliency-summit. The global event will kick off for various regions at the following times: AMER: 10 a.m. ET EMEA: 4 p.m. CEST APJ: 11 a.m. SGT (Oct. 25) For additional info on Veeam, visit https://www.veeam.com. About Veeam Software Veeam, ,#1 global provider of Data Protection and Ransomware Recovery, provides organizations with resiliency through data security, data recovery and data freedom for their hybrid cloud. The Veeam Data Platform delivers a single solution for Cloud, Virtual, Physical, SaaS and Kubernetes environments that give businesses peace of mind their apps and data are protected and always available so that they can keep their businesses running. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, with offices in more than 30 countries, Veeam protects over 450,000 customers worldwide, including 82% of the Fortune 500 and 73% of the Global 2,000. Veeam's global ecosystem includes 35,000+ technology partners, resellers, service providers, and alliance partners. To learn more, visit www.veeam.com or follow Veeam on LinkedIn @veeam-software and Twitter @veeam. ______________________________ iIDC's Worldwide Semiannual Software Tracker, 2022H2 for Data Replication & Protection software View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928222272/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] IEE Exhibiting Lineup of Rugged Displays at AUSA Annual Meeting and Expo 2023 Tweet Industrial Electronic Engineers, IEE, manufacturer of field-proven military displays will be exhibiting their product line at the 2023 AUSA Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington, D.C., October 9th-11th. IEE is answering the need for high-resolution displays that can serve as a key component in a Counter-UAS security strategy of detection, identification, tracking, and defeat. Advanced sensors, radars and other detection technologies enable the early warning and accurate identification of potential drone threats. "High-resolution displays in conjunction with AI algorithms can be used to analyze data from sensors, cameras and other sources to accurately differentiate between an actual threat and other flying objects," commented Steve Motter, V.P. of Business Development for IEE. "This allows the operator to quickly and more accurately detect the presence of an actual threat and act accordingly." IEE features a selection of operator console displays with resolutions of Full-HD, Ultra-HD and 4K that match the latest high-resolution sensors and cameras, while still being able to operate in harsh outdoor fielded environments. These include the 13.3-inch FHD, the 10.1-inch MFD and a soon to be released 11.6-inch MFD. 13.3-inch FHD Operator Display Panel Developed for use in both airborne and military ground vehicle operations, this 13.3-inch monitor features full-HD resolution that is able to directly render the latest camera and sensor data. Its narrow bezel is optimized for side-by-side mounting of multiple displays, creating a panoramic operator workstation. Touch screen options available. Enhanced, High-Bright 13.3" LCD Display Full-HD (1920x1080) LCD bonded with high-strength cover glass including EMI shield, heater and anti-reflective/glare treatments LED backlight with high-bright day (sunlight readable) and night (NVIS compatible) modes 8 backlit soft key bezel layout 2x Composite NTSC/PAL; 1x 3G-SDI Serial communication bus 10.1-inch WUXGA Multi-Function Display (MFD) The 10.1" MFD utilizes a high performance, heavy-duty, full color, very high-bright WUXGA AMLCD. Designed for fixed and rotary wing airborne applications, this very wide viewing angle display features a selectable dual-mode LED backlight for sunlight readable daytime operation and NVIS-compatible operation for night. A programmable 8-way joystick and encoder knobs complement the bezel keys to provide a full-featured operator interface supporting the control of a wide range of applications. Product Features: 10.1" WUXGA, (1920x1200) color TFT LCD display Brightness: 1,100 cd/m2 typical Contrast Ratio: 800:1 Video Interface: 2 x DVI-D, 2 x HD-SDI (loop-through) Communication Interface: RS-422 13 programmable bezel push-buttons, with tactile feedback and NVIS filtered backlight Replaceable Bezel On-screen display (OSD) functions controlled using Bezel Keys 3-way rotary switch for OFF/NIGHT/DAY, one brightness encoder, two programmable dual-concentric encoders and one 8-way joystick IEE is exhibiting in booth #1167 at the AUSA Annual Meeting and Exposition, October 9th-11th. Stop by or make an appointment with Steve Motter by calling 1-800-422-0867, ext. 327, or [email protected]. About IEE: For over 75 years, IEE has been a trusted provider of enhanced displays for military and industrial applications. From rapid prototyping of custom designs to full-scale production runs, IEE's factory in Van Nuys, CA produces innovative displays with advanced features like low-latency video processing, high-bright and NVIS backlighting, and lightweight, ruggedized enclosures. IEE's direct control of critical process steps reduces costs, decreases production lead times and improves lifecycle management. IEE display products are distributed worldwide. IEE is ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D certified. For more information: visit ieeinc.com Get our updates: http://www.linkedin.com/company/industrial-electronic-engineers Follow us at: http://twitter.com/IEEdisplays Become a fan: https://www.facebook.com/IEEdisplays View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928497173/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Hilton, in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) West Asia, Winnow, and nema, the National Food Loss and Waste initiative, has launched a first-of-its-kind Green Breakfast initiative that aims to significantly reduce food waste across breakfast operations in 13 UAE-based hotels. The launch follows the success of Hiltons Green Ramadan campaign, which saw a 61 per cent reduction in post-consumer food waste across the brands properties in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. Hiltons Green Breakfast initiative effectively provides a blueprint for food waste management across the local hospitality industry. The pilot project kicked off in August with the installation of production and plate waste systems across participating hotels, where baseline data was recorded and will be updated through November 2023. Hilton, nema, and Winnow are working on the ground to develop best practices for the entire industry to follow. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and UNEP studies have revealed that one third of food produced for human consumption is lost or wasted globally, accounting for eight to 10 per cent of global carbon emissions and totalling a one trillion-dollar problem. The groups breakfast campaign aims to tackle these challenges in line with the United Nations Sustainability Goal 12.3, which commits to halving food waste at the consumer level by 2030. The activity falls under the Recipe of Change initiative led by UNEP West Asia with the support of the GO4SDGs initiative, and nema The National Food Loss and Waste initiative which is a collaboration of The Presidential Court, Emirates Foundation, and Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. By proactively tracking and measuring food waste, as well as implementing interventions or nudges that direct consumer choices, Hilton will be contributing to the global food index via UNEP and will also be supporting food waste reduction targets in the UAE through collaboration with nema. Hilton continues to prioritise food waste reduction as part of its ongoing ESG Travel with Purpose initiatives, which bring responsible tourism to the forefront of the groups hotel operations. Breakfast provides a unique opportunity to address food waste concerns, as it is the one unifying F&B experience in all hotels that also contributes the most to food waste around the world. With Hilton serving an estimated one billion breakfasts per year and the 13 UAE-based properties serving 1.8 million in the same period the first meal of the day allows for the most guest interaction and education. Emma Banks, Vice President, F&B Strategy & Development, Hilton, EMEA, said: Hilton Green Breakfast is the latest pioneering initiative launched by the group, which will see the foundations laid for effective food waste management across local and regional hotel F&B operations. The campaign also serves to support Hiltons ongoing commitment to creating a global food waste reduction programme, with the market-leading pilot initiative driving closed-loop operations ahead of Hiltons participation in COP28. Khuloud Hasan Al Nuwais, Chief Sustainability Officer of Emirates Foundation and nema National Steering Committee Secretary General, commented: To ensure a sustainable future, we must confront the issue of food waste head-on, which is why bold initiatives such as Hiltons Green Breakfast are so crucial, and we are proud to play our part by helping to implement these kinds of innovative solutions that foster awareness. Marc Zornes, CEO, Winnow added: "Through our collaboration with Hilton on the Green Breakfast initiative, we're taking tangible steps towards addressing the global food waste challenge. The results from Hilton's Green Ramadan were commendable, and we're optimistic about making an even greater impact as gear up for COP28. Together, we're setting standards for the hospitality industry to drive meaningful change." Participating hotels include Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre, Conrad Dubai, Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton, Canopy by Hilton Dubai Al Seef, Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island, Hampton by Hilton Dubai Al Seef, and DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai - Business Bay. TradeArabia News Service GPMC Canada KITCHENER, Ontario, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Canadian Safety Achievement Awards (CS2A), hosted by the General Presidents Maintenance Committee for Canada and the National Maintenance Council for Canada (GPMC | NMC), is proud to announce Milwaukee Tool as a corporate sponsor of the 2023 Canadian Safety Achievements Awards. The awards banquet will be held at the Studio Bell National Music Centre in Calgary, Alberta on October 24, 2023. We are proud to welcome Milwaukee Tool as a sponsor of the Canadian Safety Achievement Awards. Milwaukee Tool is not only a world leader in tools, but also a company with a focus on end-user success and commitment to safety that sets them apart, said Brett McKenzie, Executive Director of the GPMC | NMC. The CS2A provides an avenue to showcase stakeholders achievements and celebrate success with industry partners in industrial maintenance. Each year, the CS2A program culminates with a banquet where top performers will receive awards in several health and safety categories. This initiative creates a quantifiable benchmark that maintenance industry stakeholders can strive to achieve each year and aims to strengthen the tripartite relationship in the industry to continue the promotion of health and safety as a top priority in the unionized maintenance sector. About General Presidents Maintenance Committee for Canada and the National Maintenance Council for Canada (GPMC | NMC) The General Presidents Maintenance Committee for Canada and the National Maintenance Council for Canada (GPMC | NMC) is an alliance of International Building Trades Unions that has negotiated and administered labour agreements for maintenance work at industrial plants across Canada since 1952. The agreements make it possible for industry to employ up to 13 different construction trades under a single set of terms and conditions. The GPMC | NMC, in cooperation with contractors and project owners provides stable, long-term agreements for routine industrial maintenance and short-term agreements for plant shutdowns and intermittent maintenance. Story continues The GPMC | NMC administers collective agreements in eight out of the ten Canadian provinces and in key industrial sectors including oil sands extraction, oil refining, petrochemicals, mining, electricity generation, pulp and paper, natural gas processing, steel production, and consumer product production. CONTACT: For more information: Nicole Sendey, APR Communications Manager General Presidents Maintenance Committee for Canada and the National Maintenance Council for Canada (GPMC | NMC) nsendey@gpmccanada.com 250-802-2858 gpmccanada.com [September 28, 2023] Smart Communications Named to the Elite 2023 IDC FinTech Rankings Enterprise Top 100 Tweet LONDON and NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Smart Communications , a leading technology company focused on helping businesses engage in more meaningful customer conversations, today announced it was categorized as a 2023 IDC FinTech Rankings Top 100 solution provider. The prestigious list features the enterprises from around the globe serving multiple industries that generate significant revenues from banking, insurance, and other financial services industries. The Fortune 500-style ranking categorizes and lists the top global technology providers based on calendar year revenue from financial institutions for hardware, software and/or services. These providers supply the technological backbone of the financial services industry, an industry in which IDC forecasts worldwide spending on IT across the globe to be over $800 billion (USD) by 2026. With market volatility and increasing competition for wallet share, its never been more important for financial services institutions to deliver a hyper-personalized, digital-first customer experience. Our inclusion on the 2023 IDC FinTech Rankings reinforces our continued commitment to this sector and to the client experience, said Leigh Segall, President of Smart Communications. By driving ongoing innovation and technology excellence, our customers can differentiate on experience, improve efficiency and reduce compliance risks associated with account opening, onboarding, and client servicing lifecycles. Were particularly proud of the growth weve had across our partner network with other leading financial services technology vendors including Salesforce, Guidewire, Pega, Broadridge, CGI, Avaloq, OneSpan and Duck Creek. Enterprises must enhance the customer experience to effectively meet customer needs in real time, on demand, and across every channel if they are to succeed in a highly competitive market. As the only SaaS-based platform to deliver a complete customer conversation solution within the customer communications management (CCM) industry, Smart Communications Conversation Cloud platform enables hundreds of the worlds largest banks, insurers and other financial services institutions to digitally transform the way they engage with customers, advisors and trading partners. Client results include growth in revenue, reduced friction, improved efficiency, and mitigating compliance risks. This innovation redefines CCM and digital forms processes and uniquely empowers companies to operate more efficiently at scale connecting into existing technologies. Smart Communications has the scale to provide financial institutions with the digital solutions necessary to remain competitive in a rapidly changing and competitive marketplace, as exemplified by their placement on the IDC FinTech Rankings list in 2023, said Marc DeCastro, research director at IDC Financial Insights. To view the list in the entirety, please visit: http://www.idc-fi.com Visit Smart Communications website to learn more about the companys industry and technology expertise in financial services and insurance. About Smart Communications Smart Communications provides the platform that leading organizations trust to deliver personalized, consistent and compliant conversations across all touchpoints and channels. The Conversation Cloud consists of SmartCOMM for enterprise-scale customer communications, SmartIQ for digital forms transformation, and SmartDX for trade documentation. Over 650 enterprise organizations across the globe rely on Smart Communications to simplify and automate complex processes and deliver highly secure, frictionless experiences across the customer lifecycle. To learn more, visit smartcommunications.com. Media Relations Contact: Roberta Patterson Analyst and Public Relations Manager [email protected] 919-450-7736 [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Star Mountain Capital Adds Chris Calabrese, Former Co-Founder of LBC Credit Partners, as Strategic Portfolio Partner Tweet Star Mountain Capital, LLC ("Star Mountain"), a specialized investment manager with approximately $3.5 billion in assets under management (committed capital including debt facilities as of 8/31/2023) focused on investing in established, private small and medium-sized businesses in the North American lower middle-market, is pleased to announce that Chris Calabrese has increased his involvement with Star Mountain from an Operating Partner to a full-time role of Strategic Portfolio Partner. Star Mountain Senior Advisors / Operating Partners are aligned with Star Mountain's full-time team and investors by investing their personal capital and sharing in the firm's carried interest. "We are excited to expand Chris into this full-time role providing additional value for our investors, portfolio companies and team," said Brett Hickey, Star Mountain Capital Founder & CEO. "His 30+ years of lower middle-market private credit, risk and portfolio management, as well as overall investment experience will be a great addition to our team." "Over the past dozen years, Star Mountain has built an impressive team and investment process tailored to the large and fragmented lower middle-market," said Chris Calabrese. "I am pleased to be leveraging my experience to further improve best practices across all areas of the firm and particularly within portfolio management." Mr. Calabrese will be based in the firm's Philadelphia office, which is one of Star Mountain's 11 offices nationwide. In 2005 Mr. Calabrese co-founded LBC Credit Partners, a lower middle-market private credit investment firm that was acquired by CIFC Asset Management LLC in December 2021. At LBC, he served as a Senior Partner facilitating a team which invested over $5.5 billion in more than 200 lower middle-market companies through 2019. During that time, Chris was an investment committee member and had oversight of the credit, portfolio management and capital markets efforts including a unit that directly managed all active portfolio accounts where he was also involved in complex restructurings and divestitures. Prior to LBC Credit Partners, Mr. Calabrese was a Managing Director at Wachovia (now part of ~$2 trillion Wells Fargo) where he was Head of Business Development and Underwriting as well as Member of Senior Credit Committee. Earlier in his career, Mr. Calabrese was a Senior Vice President at First Union Bank (now part of ~$2 trillion Wells Fargo) where he led a team of commercial loan originators, underwriters and portfolio managers for leveraged loan products including asset-based lending. Prior to First Union Bank he was a Vice President at Meridian Bank. Mr. Calabrese obtained formal credit training in banking and corporate finance at Mellon Bank where he started his career in 1986. Mr. Calabrese holds a Master of Business Administration from Drexel University and a Bachelor of Science in Management with a minor in Accounting (magna cum laude) from Widener University. About Star Mountain With approximately $3.5 billion in assets under management (committed capital including debt facilities as of 8/31/2023), Star Mountain takes a data-driven approach to investing into the North American lower middle-market through two complementary investment strategies: (i) direct debt and equity investing and (ii) secondaries (acquiring LP interests and direct assets and making primary LP commitments) and NAV loans to funds. Star Mountain believes these complementary strategies provide data-enhanced, scalable, diversified, and customizable access for its institutional and high-net-worth investors to established businesses that generally have at least $15 million in annual revenues and under $50 million in EBITDA. Its investors include public pensions, private pensions, insurance companies, commercial banks, endowments, foundations, family offices and high-net-worth individuals. Star Mountain is 100% employee-ownd and shares its profits with 100% of its U.S. full-time employees as part of its focus on maximizing value for its stakeholders and investors through alignment of interests. Since 2010 through August 2023, Star Mountain has made over 200 direct investments in businesses and over 40 secondary / fund investments within its Collaborative Ecosystem, focused on the North American lower middle-market. One of Star Mountain's specialties is seeking current cash income for investors that is materially above the typical yields found in the public markets, often accompanied with potential long-term capital gains equity returns and low correlation to public markets through its distinctive origination, underwriting and value-added investment capabilities. Star Mountain was recently named one of the Inc. 5000 fastest-growing private companies in America. For the fourth straight year, Star Mountain was again named one of the 2022 Best Places to Work by Crain's New York Business as well as once again one of the 2022 Best Places to Work by Pensions & Investments. Star Mountain believes its focus and dedication has been productive for job creation and economic development including in underserved areas and communities. Star Mountain is dedicated to this large market of underserved businesses purpose-built to address the challenges and opportunities of these companies. As part of its commitment, Star Mountain has trademarked Investing in the Growth Engine of America . Star Mountain's Charitable Foundation, a not-for-profit 501(c)3 focuses on improving lives through economic development, including job creation, health & wellness and cancer research. Notable missions include helping match veterans and women with high quality small and medium-sized business career opportunities across the country, including within Star Mountain's portfolio. Note: This does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase interests in any investment product. Awards and recognitions by unaffiliated rating services, companies and/or publications should not be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he / she / it will experience a certain level of results if Star Mountain is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services; nor should they be construed as a current or past endorsement, testimonial endorsement, recommendation or referral of Star Mountain or its representatives by any of its clients or any other third party. Rankings published by magazines and others are generally based exclusively on information prepared and / or submitted by the recognized advisor. Moreover, with regard to all performance information contained herein, directly or indirectly, if any, readers should note that past results are not indicative of future results. The description and the selection methodologies of each award and recognition are subjective and will vary. Awards and recognitions by unaffiliated rating services, companies, and/or publications should not be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she/it will experience a certain level of results if SMFM is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services; nor should they be construed as a current or past endorsement, testimonial endorsement, recommendation or referral of SMFM or its representatives by any of its clients or any other third party. Rankings published by magazines and others are generally based exclusively on information prepared and/or submitted by the recognized advisor. Crain's two-part survey process consisted of evaluating each nominated company's workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics. The second part involved an employee survey to measure the employee experience. The combined scores determined the top companies and the final ranking. Star Mountain must pay a fee to Crain's only for survey collection purposes. Detailed eligibility criteria can be found here: https://bestcompaniesgroup.com/best-companies-to-work-for-in-new-york/eligibility/ To be named to P&I's Best Places list, all firms met Best Companies' high threshold for inclusion and were evaluated against others of similar size. Individual firm profiles, which were compiled based on survey results, reflect U.S. employment numbers and were confirmed by Best Companies in the summer. Company and employee comments were edited for space, style and clarity. Assets under management or advisement are as of June 30, unless otherwise noted. To participate, companies had to have at least 20 employees in the U.S., at least $100 million of discretionary assets under management or advisement and be in business for at least one year. An anonymous employee survey, which aimed to evaluate employee engagement and satisfaction, accounted for 75% of a firm's score; an employer survey, which evaluated workplace policies, practices, benefits and demographics, made up 25%. https://bestcompaniesgroup.com/best-places-to-work-in-money-management/eligibility/ Companies on the 2023 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2019 to 2022. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2019. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent--not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies--as of December 31, 2022. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2019 is $100,000; the minimum for 2022 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Growth rates used to determine rankings were calculated to four decimal places. https://www.inc.com/inc5000 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928992920/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Timothy Elder Joins Benetech Board of Directors Tweet PALO ALTO, Calif., Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Benetech, a global nonprofit focused on providing equitable opportunities for all learners, today, on International Day for Universal Access to Information , announced the appointment of Timothy Elder to its Board of Directors. Elder is the Founder and Principal Attorney of the TRE Legal Practice, a boutique civil rights law firm focusing on the rights of the blind and other disabled people to benefit from accessible technology. The Benetech board, a diverse and highly experienced group of professionals, leverages collective expertise and leadership from a broad spectrum of sectors including technology, business, philanthropy, and education to advance the organizations mission of driving equity in education. Benetech believes that education is a human right, so today is a fitting moment to acknowledge someone with Tims level of civic involvement, officially joining our board, said Ayan Kishore, CEO, Benetech. Timdeeply understands the importance of access to information including online and digital spaces where so much educational content is published and posted. His expertise in and commitment to disability rights will help Benetech and the communities we work with, to better serve students with learning differences and disabilities. As an avid non-visual reader and longstanding leader within the blindness community, I have always appreciated Benetechs significant contributions to literacy for minority groups. Im excited to now help carry Benetechs mission for social good into the next frontier of technological innovation. said Timothy Elder, Benetechs newest Board member. Ive seen first-hand how technology can either enhance or impede education and access to information. I look forward to working with Benetech to address the increasing high stakes of accessible digital information for disadvantaged groups. Background on Timothy Elder Founder and Principal Attorney of the TRE Legal Practice, a boutique civil rights law firm focusing on the rights of the blind and other disabled people to benefit from accessible technology. Previously associated at Brown, Goldstein & Levy as a Disability Rights Fellow During law school, he externed with the Hon. Marilyn Hall Patel of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. He also clerked for the Legal Aid Society Employment Law Center in San Francisco Graduated magna cum laude from the University of California Law San Francisco; Holds Bachelor of Arts in Music from San Francisco State University Held leadership positions in the American Bar Association and the National Association of Blind Lawyers Awarded the TenBroek Fellowship for commitment to disability rights (2008) Recipient of The Daily Records VIP by 40 Award, which recognizes younger professionals in Maryland for their professional accomplishments, civic involvement, and impact of achievement (2010) View all Benetech board member profiles at: https://benetech.org/about/leadership/board/ ? ?About Benetech ? Benetech believes that equitable access to education is a human right. Our technology and services break down systemic barriers and empower all learners regardless of ability. Around the world, we partner with local communities to expand inclusive and equitable education opportunities. To date we have delivered more than 20 million accessible books helping over 1.5 million students, jobseekers, and adults to read, learn, and pursue their dreams. Visit?www.benetech.org.?? [email protected] [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] PsiQuantum Partners With U.S. Department of Energy's SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory to Access State-of-the-Art, High-Powered Cryogenic Cooling Capabilities for Large-Scale Quantum Computing Tweet PsiQuantum announced that it is beginning work with the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory to leverage the existing infrastructure and cryogenic engineering expertise at SLAC to prove the viability of existing cryogenic cooling solutions to support building a large-scale, error-corrected quantum computer. This effort takes place under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement with Stanford University, which operates SLAC for the DOE. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928695134/en/ SLAC NATIONAL ACCELERATOR LABORATORY, MENLO PARK, CALIFORNIA (Photo: Business Wire) Quantum computing promises to be a profound, transformational technology, capable of driving here-to-unimaginable advances across all science and industry. The quantum computers in service today are designated as Noisy, Intermediate-Scale Quantum (NISQ) systems with at most a few hundred physical qubits. Not unexpectedly, when these NISQ systems try to run useful quantum algorithms, they are quickly overrun by errors and noise, leading to unreliable or unusable results. To realize the full potential of quantum computing, error correction is required to suppress the "noise" in the computation and to limit the number of errors in algorithm output. It is increasingly acknowledged that commercially valuable use cases will require large-scale, error-corrected systems. All quantum computing efforts face similar scaling challenges for manufacturability, connectivity, control electronics, and cooling power. From its inception, PsiQuantum has singularly focused on finding a fast path to a large-scale, fault tolerant system. While all mainstream quantum computing efforts require cryogenic cooling, in PsiQuantum's approach, these cooling requirements are relaxed relative to other prevailing technologies. Under the photonic approach, the qubit itself does not feel heat - it is only the extremely sensitive single-photon detectors, which are used to read the state of the qubit, which require cryogenic cooling. These single-photon detectors operate at temperatures a few degrees above absolute zero. While extremely cold, this operating temperature is - relatively-speaking - hundreds of times warmer than the milli-Kelvin temperatures required by superconducting qubit-based quantum computing approaches. Photonic quantum computing architectures therefore do not require dilution refrigerators - the "chandelier" often associated with quantum computing. Dilution refrigerator cryostats operating at the 10's of mK temperatures needed for superconducting qubit technologies, typically achieve less than one thousandth of a Watt of cooling power. The SLAC cryoplant can provide more than 30,000 Watts of cooling power at 4.5 Kelvin. As a result of this higher operating temperature, PsiQuantum can utilize existing high-power cryogenic infrastructure, with a path to increased cooling capacity as the company progresses from R&D to prototype to utility-scale production systems. SLAC, alongside STFC's Daresbury Laboratory, provide existing cryogenic infrastructure that allows for progressive levels of scaling and could help shorten the time needed to develop a large-scale quantum computer. Integration at SLAC provides the capabilities for sub-system and core module deveopment and validation. Implemented to support upgrades to its x-ray free electron laser (XFEL) facility, SLAC has two cryoplants (C1 and C2) that can each supply an equivalent power of 18kW @4.5 K, overseen by a team of 25 cryogenic engineers and operations staff. The first phase of the collaboration will focus on high-capacity cryostat development while operating parasitically from the C1 plant. The second phase will focus on cryogenic cooling, distribution, and controls for a large array of networked modules connected to the C2 plant. By 2024, the collaboration will provide PsiQuantum with over 100 watts of cooling capacity at 2 Kelvin. This is ~100X larger than PsiQuantum's initial cryocooler-based systems in its Palo Alto HQ development lab. This partnership also deepens PsiQuantum's existing collaborations with the U.S. Government, including its ongoing work with DARPA (read more), the Air Force (read more) and a recently completed project with Los Alamos National Laboratory. That collaboration resulted in a world-beating quantum linear solver algorithm, combining groundbreaking ideas from adiabatic quantum computing and quantum signal processing filtering techniques (read more). Fariba Danesh, Chief Operating Officer at PsiQuantum, said: "We are extremely excited to be entering this partnership with DOE's SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. For more than 60 years, SLAC has been home to a talent pool of the smartest scientists and engineers that have constantly been at the forefront of scientific innovation. We are looking forward to continuing this tradition as we leverage its state-of-the-art cryogenic infrastructure to accelerate PsiQuantum's mission to deliver a large-scale, error corrected quantum computer." Prof. Mike Dunne, Associate Laboratory Director of SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, said: "Development of quantum computing is a grand challenge that will transform many areas of science if it can be successfully harnessed - with examples ranging from drug discovery to advanced materials, weather forecasting and cybersecurity. As such, we are pleased to partner with PsiQuantum as part of its community-wide research in this area. By reutilizing capabilities that were deployed for our LCLS facility [read more], we are building on the DOE's investments at our laboratory to keep our nation at the forefront of this exciting field.'' About PsiQuantum PsiQuantum's mission is to build and deploy the world's first useful quantum computer. The company was founded on the premise that commercially valuable quantum computing systems will require fault tolerance and error correction, demanding a very large-scale system implementation. The company believes that it has the fastest and most feasible path to a large-scale fault-tolerant system, based largely on existing technologies and infrastructure - including high-volume semiconductor manufacturing, packaging, and high-power cryogenic systems. Society today - and by extension a large fraction of global industry - is built on a foundation of chemistry, physics, and information. Quantum computing has the potential to categorically advance our mastery of the physical world and of information, with widespread impact across science and technology. We are engaged with customers and partners to evaluate and revolutionize applications spanning climate, healthcare, finance, energy, agriculture, transportation, communications, and beyond. PsiQuantum's founders had a combined sixty years of experience in academia prior to the inception of the company in 2015. The company has assembled a world-class team of quantum physicists, semiconductor, electrical and mechanical engineers all supported by a group of notable investors and advisors. Our work spans semiconductor process development, integrated photonic device and systems design, superconducting device manufacturing, high-throughput wafer, chip and sub-assembly test, optoelectronic packaging, cryogenic CMOS control electronics, high-power cryogenic cooling, quantum optics, quantum error correcting codes, fault-tolerant quantum algorithm compilation, and domain-specific quantum algorithm development. Currently, the company utilizes the capacity and expertise of a tier-1 semiconductor foundry to build thousands of wafers and millions of quantum chips. For more information, go to: psiquantum.com/about Follow PsiQuantum: LinkedIn 2023 PsiQuantum. PsiQuantum and the PsiQuantum logo are registered or pending registration trademarks of PsiQuantum, Corp., in the United States and other countries. About SLAC SLAC is a multiprogram laboratory that explores how the universe works at the biggest, smallest and fastest scales. SLAC is operated by Stanford University for the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science. https://www6.slac.stanford.edu/ View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928695134/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Alfred Mann Foundation Rebrands as huMannity Medtec, Unveiling a Bold, Future-Focused Identity Tweet SANTA CLARITA, Calif. , Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Alfred E. Mann Foundation for Scientific Research (AMF), a leading nonprofit medical research organization with a nearly 40-year history of innovation, is proud to announce its rebranding to huMannity Medtec, effective today. This transition includes a vibrant new visual identity, reflecting the organization's progressive vision for the future of medical technology. This rebranding culminates a year-long effort to articulate huMannity Medtec's unique expertise and ethos, honoring the legacy of the organization's founder, med tech pioneer Alfred E. Mann. The new branding emphasizes a future-focused mission, aimed at elevating global healthcare standards. Robert Greenberg MD, PhD, CEO and Chairman of huMannity Medtec, conveys his excitement. "We are thrilled to introduce huMannity Medtec, a name that encapsulates our unwavering commitment to pioneering novel medical technologies to help shape the future of healthcare. Our new brand signifies a reinvigorated dedication to solving the most pressing patient problems." The rebranding includes a new logo and branding system, designed to celebrate the passion and optimism underlying the company's medical research and product development efforts, and a continued focus on people and patients. These elements are featured on the organization's revamped website, humannitymedtec.org. During its nearly four decades as the Alfred Mann Foundation, the organization has pioneered many groundbreaking medical technologies, including multi-channel cochlear implants, innovative retinal prosthetics, implantable glucose sensors, and peripheral nerve stimulators. Companies built around AMF technologies have successfully delivered these impactful products to patients and have collectively achieved nearly $8B in market value. While the name and visual identity have evolved, the organization's commitment to positive patient impact remains firm. As huMannity Medtec, the team continues to press forward with groundbreaking research and development to create transformative medical technologies that address undermet healthcare needs worldwide. Says Greenberg, "While we continue our journey as huMannity Medtec, we look forward to even greater achievements, and even more transformative technologies. Together, with our new name and renewed energy, we're poised to redefine what's possible in healthcare and help individuals around the world lead healthier, more fulfilling lives." Explore huMannity Medtec's new website, and follow the organization on social media to see the team in action: LinkedIn Facebook Twitter About huMannity Medtec huMannity Medtec (formerly The Alfred E. Mann Foundation for Scientific Research) is a non-profit medical research organization that aims to enable humankind to reach its full potential by pioneering life-enhancing technologies for undermet healthcare needs. Founded in 1985 by legendary healthcare entrepreneur Alfred E. Mann, huMannity Medtec has developed myriad successful medical devices which have changed lives across the globe. huMannity Medtec has unique expertise in the fields of implantable devices, drug delivery, and neuromodulation, and the organization's spinoff companies have achieved a market value of approximately $8B. huMannity Medtec's campus is located in Santa Clarita, California. Learn more at humannitymedtec.org. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/alfred-mann-foundation-rebrands-as-humannity-medtec-unveiling-a-bold-future-focused-identity-301941875.html SOURCE huMannity Medtec [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Bitly Expands Leadership Team With New Hire Ayub Mohammed as Senior Vice President of Global Sales and Customer Success Tweet Joins recent marketing leadership appointments, Sam Oh and Katherine Ryan, for a combined focus on enhancing customer experiences, driving revenue and scaling Connections Platform global footprint. NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bitly Inc., the world's leading Connections Platform, today announced the expansion of its leadership team with the hiring of Ayub Mohammed as Senior Vice President of Global Sales and Customer Success. Mohammed brings over a decade of experience in driving high-growth SaaS sales models and developing strategic customer experience initiatives that increase retention and market share. Bitly has a record of success having recently surpassed $100M in annual recurring revenue (ARR) with more than 500,000 global paying customers and millions of active users on its Connections Platform every month. This strategic hire will further the company's ability to capitalize on its massive customer base and continue to accelerate growth. "At Bitly, we're focused on helping businesses of all sizes create meaningful customer connections. Ayub brings extensive experience in leading and empowering product-led sales teams and driving exceptional customer experiences that align with this mission," said Toby Gabrier, CEO of Bitly. "I'm looking forward to the impact he will have at Bitly by bringing value to our current and future customers." In this role, Ayub will be joining existing and impressive sales and customer success teams and will be responsible for overseeing all global sales operations, developing product-led sales strategies across industry verticals, and enhancing customer satisfaction from SMBs to enterprise-level clients. "As the market has become more saturated than ever before with different technologies, businesses and brands across all segments are increasingly challenged in their ability to connect with their audiences," said Ayub Mohammed, Senior Vice President of Global Sales and Customer Success, Bitly. "I am excited to join the Bitly team and to bring new strategies to show our audiences how our platform can make it simple to make meaningful connections, while also helping them tell the right stories to their customers." Mohammed joins Bitly from Nextiva where he served as Vice President of Global Sales and led company-wide go-to-market (GTM) strategies to drive revenue growth. Prior to Nextiva, Mohammed acted as Global Vice President of Worldwide SDR, SMB, and Mid-Market Sales at RingCentral. During that period, he managed a team of 400 across 8 countries and played a key role in helping to lead the company to a successful IPO. Throughout his career, he has scaled teams across global offices, instituted strategies to drive double-digit company growth, and has developed successful internal partnership programs to improve customer experiences. Over the last several months Bitly has also invested in key marketing areas including the appointment of Sam Oh as Vice President of Acquisition and Katherine Ryan as Vice President of Brand. Oh serves a team that is responsible for driving revenue through user growth, upgrades to paid plans, and supporting retention efforts by reinforcing the value of the Bitly Connections Platform. Ryan oversees the company's overall brand strategy, positioning, and media efforts to strengthen Bitly's market position and achieve its business goals. Together, Mohammed, Oh and Ryan will work closely alongside Bitly's go-to-market teams to identify sales strategies and marketing efforts to continue scaling Bitly's business and its Connections Platform for the company's growing customer base. About Bitly Bitly is the world's leading Connections Platform, providing a way for brands and businesses to build more meaningful connections with their audiences both online and offline. As a leading global SaaS company, Bitly empowers millions of monthly active users and hundreds of thousands of customers globally to use branded links, custom QR Codes, and link-in-bio solutions as a trusted way to engage their audience and deliver critical notifications, information, and experiences. Bitly is proud to be named as one of Inc. Magazine's Best Workplaces in 2023, a globally respected publication that awards American companies this honor as the result of a comprehensive measurement of those who have excelled in creating exceptional workplaces and company culture. For more on Bitly, visit https://bitly.com/. Contact: Katherine Ryan [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bitly-expands-leadership-team-with-new-hire-ayub-mohammed-as-senior-vice-president-of-global-sales-and-customer-success-301941891.html SOURCE Bitly Inc. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Uber Freight doubles down on enterprise technology, unveils next generation product roadmap with AI-powered logistics Tweet SAN DIEGO, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, during the company's annual customer conference that hosts nearly 300 of the world's largest shippers, Uber Freight announced the most comprehensive evolution of its logistics technologies designed to power the global movement of goods. The news comes nearly two years after the $2.25B acquisition of the market's largest transportation management company Transplace, which partners directly with shippers to manage their logistics networks. Now, with $18B freight under management, the company is releasing for the first time a next generation of products that infuse Uber's advanced technology development capabilities, including AI-powered software. The strategic expansion of the business enabled Uber Freight to build a new kind of logistics company, one uniquely able to offer the kinds of comprehensive, end-to-end enterprise applications and services for the industry in an increasingly complex logistics landscape. "The past couple of years have been transformative for our business, driving significant amounts of resources into delivering the next generation of technologies designed to power the global movement of goods," said Lior Ron, Founder and CEO of Uber Freight. "The focus on developing new enterprise solutions underpins our commitment to our strategic customer base and the industry at large as we drive to be the most comprehensive partner to advance logistics networks." Uber Freight has made a deep investment in technology, with $120M invested since the acquisition that is focused heavily on scaling enterprise applications that span logistics software solutions, generative AI and data-enabled insights tools, as well as innovative capacity and mode expansions. Reimagining logistics management with advanced software Uber Freight is rolling out the most comprehensive update of the widely-used Uber Freight TMS since it was first launched by Transplace in 2005. The Uber Freight TMS is the all-in-one solution for planning, executing, and monitoring complex logistics operations across modes and regions, bringing shippers the time-tested expertise, Uber-grade technology, and high-quality service they need to drive their intelligent logistics forward. Initial upgrades focus on delivering a new standard of visibility, foresight, and control, "Uberizing" modules to promote ease of use and actionable dataall while exanding global, end-to-end shipment visibility across modes including rail, ocean, and air. Randy Cooper , Director of Transportation at Del Monte Foods. "Our partnership with Uber Freight's managed transportation and innovative technology has become our secret sauce as we serve our customers." Uber Freight is deepening its investment in software solutions with the launch of Uber Freight Exchange, a powerful new tool designed to meet the evolving needs of shippers and carriers by expediting freight procurement cycles and powering rapid shipment execution. Uber Freight Exchange is a neutral platform open to all shippers and carriersa shipper can utilize Uber Freight Exchange to run auctions with their own carriers, in addition to Uber Freight's network of 100,000 carriers across the US. With integrated communication, simple bid functionality, and historical performance reporting, it enhances operational efficiency, fosters partnerships, and safeguards lane coverage risks in any market conditions. Bringing the power of generative AI and machine learning to enterprise shippers Uber Freight is unveiling Insights AI, a powerful generative-AI-powered insights tool that will transform decision making in logistics and support transportation teams from granular, tactical views to more complex, strategic analyses. Insights AI will leverage LLMs to generate and surface insights from Uber Freight's vast store of transportation data for customers. Uber Freight is also leading the industry in the creation and application of AI and machine learning to drive network optimization and service improvements at scale with several new models rolled out recently, including a sophisticated ETA model, which, when combined with Uber Freight's Probability of Late Arrival (PLA) model, helps to drive automated 'self-healing' workflows to improve shipper service. Expanding dynamic capacity and freight modes, across regions Uber Freight has strategically grown the footprint of the Powerloop program to meet surging client demand for drop and hook and dedicated capacity solutions. The program has expanded operational scope from localized freight within Texas , California and Georgia , to regional and over the road freight stretching across several new states including Arizona , Utah , New Jersey , New York , Arkansas , Minnesota , Wisconsin , Illinois , Indiana , Ohio , Tennessee , Pennsylvania , Virginia , North Carolina , South Carolina , Florida , and Kentucky . , and , to regional and over the road freight stretching across several new states including , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , and . Uber Freight continues to gain ground as the most extensive autonomous freight network in North America with active partnerships with the leading developers and dozens of shippers moving autonomous loads on the network daily. In September, the company achieved a milestone of 100k autonomous miles driven with AV carriers on the network. with active partnerships with the leading developers and dozens of shippers moving autonomous loads on the network daily. In September, the company achieved a milestone of autonomous miles driven with AV carriers on the network. Uber Freight has expanded support across the North American cross-border supply chain. To meet a 20% increase in production from across the customer base, the company now has six cross-border locations between US and Mexico and over 1,000 team members throughout the region to support this tailwind. Uber Freight also shared the extensive progress the business has made since the acquisition, including expanding its connected network of shippers and carriers to one of the largest in the world with 2 million drivers registered since the founding of the company, and dramatically advancing its sustainability impact, with an estimated 2.4 million empty miles eliminated from its network in the past year alone. To learn more about Uber Freight's end-to-end suite of enterprise solutions and services, visit www.uberfreight.com ABOUT UBER FREIGHT Uber Freight is a market-leading enterprise technology company powering intelligent logistics. With a suite of end-to-end logistics applications, managed services and an expansive carrier network, Uber Freight advances supply chains and moves the world's goods. Today, the company manages over $18 billion of freight and has the largest network of carriers. It is backed by best-in-class investors including Greenbriar Equity Group and partnered with 1 in 3 Fortune 500 companies, including Del Monte Foods, Nestle, Anheuser-Busch InBev and more. For more, visit www.uberfreight.com View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/uber-freight-doubles-down-on-enterprise-technology-unveils-next-generation-product-roadmap-with-ai-powered-logistics-301941585.html SOURCE Uber Freight [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Nord Security asserts its leading position in the cybersecurity market with a $100M investment Nord Security is a parent company for globally renowned digital privacy and security tools, such as NordVPN, NordPass, and NordLayer Together with a consumer cybersecurity company Surfshark, Nord Security forms a group that now has more than 2,000 employees and serves millions of users worldwide The funding round is a testament of the companys stellar performance, particularly in the current macroeconomic and investment climate VILNIUS, Lithuania, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nord Security , a global leader in internet privacy and security solutions, announced a $100M financing round from Warburg Pincus , a leading global growth investor. Existing investors participating in the round include Novator Ventures and Burda Principal Investments . The investment will be used to expand Nord Security's product offering and accelerate growth through strategic mergers and acquisitions, allowing the company to enhance both consumer and business customers security even more. In April 2022, Nord Security raised $100M in its first-ever external investment round at a $1.6B valuation. In just over a year, by focusing on continuous growth and raising new funding, Nord Security doubled its valuation to $3B. Nord Security has revolutionized the way consumers perceive and interact with digital security. By developing an all-encompassing tool that guards users' online traffic, offers breach alerts, combats malware downloads, and aids in removal from data broker lists, Nord Security has undeniably elevated industry standards. It is estimated that the global cybersecurity market size will grow to 538.3B U.S. dollars by 2030 . In a world where cyber threats grow in both complexity and frequency, sustainable growth and preemptive security measures are paramount. Nord Security, whose product suite includes the biggest and most popular VPN service in the world NordVPN , password manager NordPass , network access security software for businesses NordLayer , and encrypted cloud storage NordLocker >, had been bootstrapped for more than a decade before raising its first outside investment. It was able to leverage a sustainable business model to build a diversified revenue stream with a global user base and develop resilience to turbulence in the financial and venture capital markets currently felt by startup ecosystems all over the globe. In 2022, Nord Security formed a group of companies with another popular consumer cybersecurity company Surfshark. Surfshark's product suite includes a consumer VPN, Antivirus, online data leak detection system Alert, online identity protection tool Alternative ID , a private search tool Search, and automated personal data removal system Incogni. The team behind Surfshark is highly focused on new products and innovations in the consumer privacy and security sector. Nord Security was founded in Lithuania in 2012 by co-founders and co-CEOs Tom Okman and Eimantas Sabaliauskas. Their mission was to create internet security and privacy tools that are easily accessible to everyone. Today, Nord Security's suite of products is trusted by millions of consumers worldwide and a range of businesses. Nord Security operates in more than 20 markets and employs around 2,000 professionals globally. Warburg Pincus has invested more than $22B in technology companies since inception and is one of the most active growth investors in enterprise technology and cloud-based platforms. Notable technology investments include Avalara, Infoblox, NEOGOV, and Salsify. One of the firm's core areas of focus is in backing growing cybersecurity companies, including investments in Aura, Bitsight, Contrast Security, Crowdstrike, eSentire, and Zimperium. Tom Okman, co-CEO and co-founder at Nord Security, said: Our users' trust allowed us to remain on a sustainable and profitable journey for more than decade. In a saturated cybersecurity market, it is not enough to offer next-gen privacy and security solutions. They also have to be intuitive for both professional and casual internet users. We are grateful that Warburg Pincus shares that trust and our vision for the future of the internet. We will continue to address the needs of our users by bringing market-leading innovative features, informative marketing, and a holistic approach towards consumer and businesses cybersecurity needs. The new financing round, together with our investors' experience and know-how, allow us to be in an even stronger position to make the Nord name synonymous with online privacy and security. Eimantas Sabaliauskas, co-CEO and co-founder at Nord Security, said: Modern cybersecurity requires cutting-edge innovations, and that's where our talented professionals make Nord Security stand out. Over the years we focused on fostering a community where driven experts are welcomed and enabled to make radically better internet. The Nord community, made up of individuals from all corners of the globe, work together to make sure that our users can be safer online, every day. And we believe there are many who share our cause and our mission. Chandler Reedy, Managing Director, Head of Strategic Investments, and Co-Head of Business Services, who also joins Nord Securitys board, added: Nord Security is a market leader with a comprehensive track record of combatting cybercrime and data protection issues. With an attractive long-term outlook supported by state-of the-art cybersecurity tools, Nord Securitys business model and strategy align well with our extensive experience in the cybersecurity sector. Leveraging the expertise of Warburg Pincus Capital Solutions team and its Capital Solutions Founders Fund, Nord Security is well positioned to gain further momentum in this complex market environment. The investment is being made out of the Capital Solutions Founders Fund. We look forward to working with Tom, Eimantas and their talented team to provide consumers peace of mind when navigating the internet. About Nord Security Established in 2012, Nord Security is home to advanced security solutions that share Nord values, including the world's most advanced VPN service NordVPN, next-generation password manager NordPass, encrypted cloud storage NordLocker, and advanced network access security solution NordLayer. Together with a consumer cybersecurity company Surfshark, Nord Security forms a group that now has more than 2,000 employees and serves millions of users worldwide. More information: nordsecurity.com . About Warburg Pincus Warburg Pincus LLC is a leading global growth investor. The firm has more than $83B in assets under management. The firms active portfolio of more than 250 companies is highly diversified by stage, sector, and geography. Warburg Pincus is an experienced partner to management teams seeking to build durable companies with sustainable value. Founded in 1966, Warburg Pincus has raised 21 private equity and 2 real estate funds, which have invested more than $112B in over 1,000 companies in more than 40 countries. The firm is headquartered in New York with offices in Amsterdam, Beijing, Berlin, Hong Kong, Houston, London, Luxembourg, Mumbai, Mauritius, San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Shanghai, and Singapore. For more information please visit www.warburgpincus.com . Follow us on LinkedIn . About Novator Ventures Novator Ventures is an international growth equity fund. It seeks to identify disruptive trends driven by digitisation or technological innovation and then pick high-quality disruptor businesses that are driving these secular changes in their given industries. Novator Ventures offers founder and/or management teams an opportunity to capitalize on the back of an engaged, knowledgeable, and supportive investor. Amongst others, Novator Ventures previous investments include Zwift, Monzo, Tier, and AppLovin. For more information please visit: www.novator.co.uk. About Burda Principal Investments Burda Principal Investments (BPI) provides long term growth equity for fast growing consumer digital and technology companies. BPI is a division of Hubert Burda Media which is one of Europes largest media and technology conglomerates with a strong investment track record in internet-centric businesses since 1998. At BPI, we have been partners of visionary entrepreneurs, leveraging Burdas capital, brands and sector expertise, particularly in the areas of business expansion, internationalization, and localization. BPI is invested in a portfolio of highly successful and fast-growing digital and tech companies in Europe, the US, and Asia including Vinted, Bloom & Wild, Carsome, Moneybox, Zapp, Billease, and many more. Contact: Patricija Cerniauskaite [email protected] [September 28, 2023] Nividous To Sponsor And Exhibit At The APP2P Fall Conference & Expo 2023 In Las Vegas Tweet The conference is scheduled from November 13th to 15th at the Mirage in Las Vegas. Meet the Nividous team at booth #1101. MOORESTOWN, N.J., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Nividous, a leading provider of intelligent automation solutions, is thrilled to announce its sponsorship at the upcoming Accounts Payable and Procure-to-Pay Conference & Expo 2023, scheduled from November 13th to 15th, at The Mirage in Las Vegas, USA. Meet the Nividous team at booth #1101 and uncover innovative and recent advancements in intelligent automation for accounts payable. Click here to book your meeting with Nividous or reach us at [email protected]. The APP2P Fall Conference & Expo is a worldwide premier gathering of experienced practitioners and innovative strategists in the accounts payable and procure-to-pay space. This three-day event offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into proven best practices and automation solutions to today's toughest challenges in accounting and finance. In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, intelligent automation enables businesses to operate with higher efficiency, improved productivity, enhanced compliance, and an ability to innovate as human capital is freed up to perform more valuable tasks. With an all-encompassing accounts payable solution powered by the Nividous Intelligent Automation Platform, we have helped numerous businesses operate at their peak efficiency and achieve a competitive edge. We are excted to network with industry leaders, learn about their needs, discuss our expertise, and share the importance of embracing a holistic approach toward their automation journeys. Meet us to explore how: The Nividous AP solution can seamlessly automate your end-to-end operations from processing purchase orders, intelligently scanning invoices, and accurately extracting data for verification to posting the data into an ERP system. The native capabilities of robotic process automation (RPA), artificial intelligence (AI), and business process management (BPM) embedded within our platform can deliver significantly higher ROI with the lowest total cost of ownership . . A unique quick start offer guarantees a deployment of our RPA Bot into production within 3-4 weeks. "In an era where businesses seek innovative ways to optimize their financial operations, Nividous AP automation solution is a game-changer. We look forward to engaging with industry professionals and demonstrating how Nividous can drive tangible benefits for their organizations," said Alan Hester, President at Nividous. Meet the Nividous experts at booth #1101 and discover how our intelligent automation solutions can transform your accounts payable operations, resulting in improved accuracy, reduced processing times, and enhanced supplier relationships. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore real-world success stories from organizations that harness Nividous automation's power. We invite all attendees to connect with our team, explore our offerings, and embark on a journey towards more intelligent and efficient accounts payable processes. For additional information about Nividous and our participation in the event, reach us directly at [email protected] or +1 (442) 444 2767. We would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. About Nividous Nividous, a global intelligent automation company, is passionate about enabling organizations to work at their peak efficiency. The Nividous leadership team has decades of experience delivering hundreds of digital process automation solutions to companies and organizations of various sizes worldwide. Leveraging its tremendous domain expertise, the Nividous team offers vertical solutions that are RPA and AI-enabled and built on configurable process automation capabilities to empower businesses to operate with flexibility and agility. Nividous also provides end-to-end professional services that include process discovery, implementation, support, and building Centers of Excellence (CoE). Contact Erik Galardi Director of Channel Partnerships Nividous Software Solutions Call: 442.444.2767 Email: [email protected] Book a meeting: https://calendly.com/erik-galardi View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nividous-to-sponsor-and-exhibit-at-the-app2p-fall-conference--expo-2023-in-las-vegas-301941755.html SOURCE Nividous [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] The Paulson Family Foundation Donates $27m for a New Building at Hebrew University's School of Computer Science and Engineering Tweet JERUSALEM, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hebrew University of Jerusalem today announces an unprecedented donation from the Paulson Family Foundation for the construction of a new building to be named the "Paulson-Barel" building, within the Rachel and Selim Benin School of Computer Science and Engineering, located on the Edmond J. Safra Campus in Givat Ram. The donation will improve and enrich the experience of Hebrew University's students and researchers, who are in high demand in the Israeli and international hi-tech industry. The Hebrew University's School of Computer Science and Engineering has been the birthplace of some of the world's leading hi-tech companies, including Mobileye and Lightricks. This gift from the U.S.-based Paulson Family Foundation will enable the construction of the fourth building in the computer science complex, thus expanding and upgrading the School's learning spaces and research laboratories. The new building will feature state-of-the-art education facilities including 7,000 sq. meters (75,300 sq ft.) of special laboratories, teaching rooms, office space, and computer stations in the labs and open areas. Prof. Asher Cohen, President of the Hebrew University: "Over the last decade, we have increased threefold the number of students at the School of Computer Science and Engineering. Thus, the current complex, which comprises three buildings, will be at full capacity by the end of 2024. The construction of this fourth building will enable us to meet the huge demand for the outstanding hi-tech personnel that the University produces. The Paulson Family Foundation's generous donation will allow us to continue supporting the Israeli hi-tech industry in the best possible way." The Paulson Family Foundation was founded in 2009 by John Paulson, President of Paulson & Co., a global investment company. The Foundation invests in education, science, health, culture, and the arts. John Paulson, Founder and Chairman of the Foundation: "Israel's quality higher education is largely responsible for the country's technology boom and rapid economic developmen. This gift will ensure that the Hebrew University has the resources to meet the growing demand for computer science and engineering education." Prof. Sara Cohen, Dean of the School of Computer Science and Engineering: "We are immensely grateful to the Paulson Family Foundation for this generous donation, which will significantly improve the learning and research experience of our students and researchers, who are influencing the future of our field on a daily basis. The new building will provide these sharpest of minds, who are present on campus around the clock, with modern learning and research spaces to the highest international standards, and will also be the home of an AI research center that we are in the process of establishing". Joshua Rednik, Chief Executive Officer, American Friends of the Hebrew University: "This is a truly transformational gift from one of America's most successful investors. His contribution to developing the next generation of computer scientists is a worthy endeavor that will advance the industry at a global level and especially within the State of Israel." About the Hebrew University of Jerusalem The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is Israel's leading academic and research institution. Serving some 24,000 students from 80 countries, it produces a third of Israel's civilian research and is ranked 12th worldwide in biotechnology patent filings and commercial development. Faculty and alumni of the Hebrew University have won eight Nobel Prizes and a Fields Medal. For more information about the Hebrew University, please visit http://new.huji.ac.il/en. About American Friends of the Hebrew University American Friends of the Hebrew University (AFHU) is a national, not-for-profit organization based in the United States. AFHU is headquartered in New York and has seven regional offices working in close partnership with the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. AFHU provides supporters, Hebrew University alumni, and the public with stimulating programs and events, and organizes missions to Israel. The organization's activities support scholarly and scientific achievement at HU, create scholarships, fund new facilities, and assist the university's efforts to recruit outstanding new faculty. For more information, please visit http://www.afhu.org. Follow us on: Facebook | Linkedin | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube Media Contacts Paulson Family Foundation Steve Bruce / Morgan Davis ASC Advisors 203-992-1230 [email protected] / [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-paulson-family-foundation-donates-27m-for-a-new-building-at-hebrew-universitys-school-of-computer-science-and-engineering-301941938.html SOURCE The Hebrew University of Jerusalem [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] CELL-EASY Gisele Deblandre, Cell-Easy's Chief Scientific Officer We're thrilled to welcome Gisele Deblandre as our new Chief Scientific Officer! TOULOUSE, France, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cell-Easy, a specialized contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) in cell therapy, proudly announces the appointment of Mrs. Gisele Deblandre as the Chief Scientific Officer. Over the years, Cell-Easy has recognized the challenges faced by biotechs in bridging the gap between early-stage projects and clinical development. While leading CDMOs emphasize their capacities, Cell-Easy identified that biotechs were seeking capabilities. As such, biotechs need a CDMO that understands their scientific vision and possesses the skills and resources to efficiently scale up processes while considering costs and timelines. To meet this demand, Cell-Easy made substantial investments in internalizing analytical resources and assembling a top-tier scientific team. With extensive expertise in developing manufacturing processes and analytical methods for cell-based therapies, Gisele Deblandre will play a pivotal role in advancing Cell-Easy's scientific initiatives and accelerating client projects. Gisele Deblandre Photo Gisele Deblandre brings a distinctive background in GMP-grade cell-based product development within the field of immuno-oncology, encompassing various cell types, including iPSCs. She played a vital role in MaSTherCell's growth, transforming it from a startup into a renowned CDMO. Previously, she served as CSO at CELLBOX and held the position of Head of Science and Technology at CATALENT Cell Therapy. She holds a Ph.D. in Molecular Cell Biology from the University of Brussels in Belgium. Guillaume Costecalde, Co-Founder and President of Cell-Easy, expressed his excitement, stating, "We are delighted to have Mrs. Gisele Deblandre on board as part of our leadership team. Cell-Easy's goal is to become the top choice as a CDMO partner for biotech and pharma firms seeking a streamlined transition from proof of concept to clinical success. Our firm focus on scientific excellence in cell development and GMP production is essential for achieving a swift transition to 'first in human' trials while maintaining cost-efficiency and adherence to timelines. Gisele's expertise in immuno-oncology further strengthens our commitment to delivering on this promise to all our partners." Story continues Gisele Deblandre shared, "I'm enthusiastic about joining Cell-Easy, as our shared vision extends beyond mere service provision; we aim to be genuine partners to early-stage biotechs and larger companies that need to scale their production. My focus is on enhancing Cell-Easy's service portfolio and reinforcing our customer-centric approach. Offering scientific guidance to biotechs, efficiently scaling their processes while respecting their timelines, budgets, and procedures undoubtedly paves the way for mutual success." This appointment marks a significant milestone for Cell-Easy, underscoring its commitment to excellence and innovation in cell-based therapies. The company eagerly anticipates continued collaboration and achievements in the future. About Cell-Easy Cell-Easy is a rapidly growing Contract Development and Manufacturing Services organization (CDMO) with a dedicated focus on Advanced Cell Therapies. Established in 2017, Cell-Easy's commitment extends beyond development and manufacturing; it also places a strong emphasis on regulatory and analytical aspects. Cell-Easy offers a comprehensive suite of services, including process development, process scale-up, cGMP manufacturing, and analytical support for immune cells (engineered CAR, -T cells, -NK cells, and non-engineered cells), as well as adult stem cells (MSCs, iPSCs, and Exosomes). Cell-Easy has achieved significant milestones, such as advancing programs to Phase 2 and partnering with top 30 international pharmaceutical companies, while also transitioning processes from autologous to allogenic. With tailored CDMO solutions, Cell-Easy is dedicated to efficiently bridging the gap between R&D projects and clinical development, saving both time and costs. Explore our full range of services at www.cell-easy.com. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1f704e14-1f84-41f5-9b5b-fde2831334c0 CONTACT: For further inquiries, please don't hesitate to contact us at info@cell-easy.com [September 28, 2023] Bob Funk, Sam Sacco to be Inducted Into the American Staffing Association Leadership Hall of Fame Tweet ALEXANDRIA, Va., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Express Employment Professionals' Bob Funk and R.A. Cohen Consulting's Sam Sacco are the 2023 inductees to the American Staffing Association Leadership Hall of Fame, the association announced today. Created in 1985, the ASA Leadership Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding individual contributions made through dedicated service to ASA and the staffing and recruiting industry. This year's ASA Leadership Hall of Fame program is sponsored by Nixer Comp. Funk and Sacco will be recognized during Staffing World 2023, the ASA annual convention and expo, taking place Oct. 35 at the Charlotte Convention Center in Charlotte, NC. Bob Funk Funk has dedicated his life to growing the staffing industry and providing hope through employment. As co-founder, president, and executive chairman of the board for Express Employment Professionals, Funk and the Express team reached record sales of $4.46 billion and employed 579,000 people in 2022. Since inception, Express has put more than 10 million people to work worldwide, with a long-term goal to put a million people to work annually. Funk is a true entrepreneur and owns 48 Express offices in Arkansas, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, and stays active with Express-affiliated companiesExpress Ranches, Express Clydesdales, Express Sports, Funk Companies, and Express UU Bar Ranches. Having a pulse on the national economy, Funk served as chairman of the Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank, serving the 10th district, from 2006 to 2007, and in 2007 went on to serve as the chairman of the Conference of Chairmen of the Federal Reseve Bank System. Funk is actively involved in the community and gives back in a big way. He is a former ASA board member and former chairman of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce. He currently serves as the chairman of the Oklahoma Youth Expo, awarding more than $8 million in scholarships to future leaders pursuing some form of higher education. "Bob Funk's lifelong dedication to the staffing industry and his unwavering commitment to providing hope through employment have left an indelible mark on our field," said Richard Wahlquist, chief executive officer at ASA. "Bob Funk's leadership, vision dedication to our industry, community, and global workforce is truly exceptional." Sam Sacco Sacco's journey in the staffing world began in 1982 when he joined the National Association of Temporary Services (NATS), known today as ASA, as their director of public relations. In 1984, Sacco's leadership skills paved the way for him to assume the position of chief executive officer and executive vice president of NATS. During his impressive tenure, Sacco orchestrated a rapid rise in the association's growth; membership soared from nearly 300 companies to 1,600. Sacco's impact extends far beyond the confines of ASA. He has authored more than 100 industry-related articles; addressed countless national, state, and local industry platforms as a speaker; and represented the staffing industry on numerous TV and radio broadcasts. After accepting the role of chairman of Work International Corp, he orchestrated the assembly of 16 companies across various sectors, displaying his acumen in valuing, assessing, and integrating businesses. Sacco continues to utilize his lifetime of industry knowledge and experience in his current role as the owner of R. A. Cohen Consulting, a leading mergers and acquisitions firm that focuses solely on the staffing business. Sacco has advised and facilitated the growth of hundreds of staffing firms across all industry sectors. He is one of the staffing industry's most ardent supporters and advocates. "Sam Sacco's enduring impact on the staffing industry is a testament to his forward-looking leadership, unwavering dedication, and passion. As CEO, he elevated the association to new levels of professionalism, and provided the foundation upon which ASA's growth and influence continues to this day." Wahlquist said. "We are proud to honor Sam's dedication and achievements on behalf of our industry." About the American Staffing Association? The American Staffing Association is the voice of the U.S. staffing, recruiting, and workforce solutions industry. ASA and its state affiliates advance the interests of the industry across all sectors through advocacy, research, education, and the promotion of high standards of legal, ethical, and professional practices. For more information about ASA, visit americanstaffing.net . Contact Megan Sweeney? American Staffing Association? 703-253-1151? [email protected] ? View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bob-funk-sam-sacco-to-be-inducted-into-the-american-staffing-association-leadership-hall-of-fame-301941954.html SOURCE American Staffing Association [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Ken George Joins Bright Pattern as Official US Director of Business Development & Channel Sales Tweet Bright Pattern, an industry-leading and global provider of omnichannel contact center software, is proud to welcome Ken George as US Director of Business Development & Channel Sales. SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 28, 2023 /CNW/ -- Bright Pattern is excited to announce the addition of Ken George to the Bright Pattern team. With a wealth of knowledge and countless years of experience, Ken will be spearheading efforts across the United States to maximize business development and channel sales, create new and long-lasting partnerships with future clients, and act as a leading beacon to expand Bright Pattern as the go-to omnichannel contact center platform provider in the U.S. market. Ken George joins Bright Pattern, cloud contact center provider, as US Director of Business Development & Channel Sales Ken has been working in the contact center industry for over 20 years and now brings his passion, insight, and innovative ideas to Bright Pattern. He has worked for a collection of some of the biggest and most successful companies in the industry, including: Cisco Systems Inc., Inter-Tel Technologies, and Avaya. He has led and managed solutions teams, developed fresh deas to generate company-leading revenue metrics, and been an integral part of every organization he has been a part of. "I have worked in the contact center industry for many, many years and I am incredibly excited to start with Bright Pattern," said Ken. "In terms of U.S. growth, Bright Pattern is one of the fastest rising companies in this industry and I cannot wait to apply my experience to help them to further accelerate their business in the U.S. market." Michael McCloskey, CEO of Bright Pattern stated, "We are incredibly happy that Ken has joined the Bright Pattern Team. Ken brings so much knowledge and experience of the contact center industry to Bright Pattern and we are all excited to see him lead our continued expansion of the U.S. market." Bright Pattern is recognized as one of the most innovative companies in the contact center industry with award-winning products and industry accolades. Ken will be joining Bright Pattern to assist in the expansion of the U.S. market, while the company will continue its international expansion across Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East. About Bright Pattern Bright Pattern provides a simple yet powerful omnichannel contact center software that is the fastest to deploy with the lowest total cost of ownership in the industry. Bright Pattern offers the most advanced omnichannel cloud platform across channels like voice, text, chat, email, video, messengers, AI and bots. Bright Pattern provides native Omnichannel quality management allowing companies to measure every interaction on every channel. Bright Pattern also offers a mobile app allowing any employee in your company to communicate with your customers. With over 500 customers in 26 countries, Bright Pattern is the highest-rated omnichannel contact center solution based on analysts and customer reviews . View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ken-george-joins-bright-pattern-as-official-us-director-of-business-development--channel-sales-301941272.html SOURCE Bright Pattern [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Eastwall and AOG Partner to Accelerate Clinical AI Strategies through Microsoft Azure Tweet DENVER, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Eastwall, a Microsoft Solution Partner specializing in Azure consulting and cloud engineering in healthcare, and Asher Orion Group (AOG), a thought leader in regulated medical device technology and AI/ML innovation, are thrilled to announce a new partnership. The alliance seeks to further healthcare technology services by creating a seamless bridge between AOG's specialized clinical AI strategies and Eastwall's comprehensive Microsoft Azure solutions. This collaboration between Eastwall and Asher Orion Group brings clinical and technical healthcare design together, offering solutions where AI is seamlessly integrated into the clinical environment, all supported by the robustness and scalability of Microsoft Azure. "Pairing our scientific, engineering, and clinical insights with Eastwall's exceptional proficiency in Azure will create a valuable and innovative AI solutions for healthcare use-cases that are also secure, scalable, and compliant to requisite standards and laws," states John F Kalafut, Ph.D., Co-Founder and CEO of AOG. "We recognize that in the rapidly evolving field of healthcare and life sciences, leveraging a well architected framework and cloud adoption model is not a luxury; it's a necessity for modern technology enablement. Our partnership with AOG is a testament to this understanding. We are beyond excited to put Azure's AI capabilities to work for healthcare providers and their patients," says Glenn Mate, Co-Founder and CEO of Eastwall. AI-Enabled Healthcare through Azure: The Cornerstone of the Partnership Advanced Diagnostic Imaging Through Azure AI AOG's proven track record in developing clinical imaging workflows finds an ideal technical partner in Eastwall. Utilizing Azure's platform and AI services, the partnership promises not just rapid creation and testing of approaches that can result in more confident and precise diagnoses and pathway decisions. Azure's robust computing power allows for real-time processing of complex imaging algorithms, thus expediting the clinical decision-making process. Predictive Analytics for Clinical Pathways AOG's expertise and abilityto optimize clinical pathways, combined with Azure's unparalleled data analytics and AI solutions, will assist healthcare organizations in creating predictive, personalized treatment plans. These AI tools can sift through petabytes of data to identify trends, probabilities, and outcomes, which can then be presented to healthcare providers in an easily digestible format through Azure-based dashboards and point-of-care applications. AI Regulatory Compliance Navigating the complex landscape of healthcare compliance is a constant challenge. With Eastwall's expertise in customizing Azure's native compliance capabilities, healthcare organizations can better integrate with, and deploy, AOG's advanced AI and machine learning strategies while maintaining rigorous regulatory standards. This specialized alignment is essential for healthcare apps deployed in the cloud, especially those dealing with sensitive patient data, as it safeguards both compliance and data security. Customized Patient Experiences The Azure AI platform, when utilized with AOG's clinical insights, can elevate personalized patient experiences. Whether it's through targeted care plans, automated reminders, or predictive health monitoring, Azure can offer the computational, automation, and security features needed to make these AI applications efficient and safe. Seamless Data Integration and Interoperability Both companies acknowledge that for AI to be truly impactful, it needs to work seamlessly with existing healthcare information systems, databases, and clinical applications. Azure's extensive capabilities in data integration make it the perfect platform to implement AOG's AI-driven healthcare solutions. This ensures that patient records, clinical databases, and other forms of healthcare data are fully interoperable and accessible. Scalability and Futureproofing One of the significant advantages of this partnership will be the inherent scalability provided by Azure's cloud infrastructure. AOG's solutions can easily be deployed at a scale which is vital for healthcare systems looking to expand or contract based on demand. Additionally, Azure's continued focus on innovation ensures that future advancements in AI can quickly be incorporated into AOG's offerings. "Eastwall's collaboration with AOG is a transformative fusion that empowers the healthcare sector to harness the full potential of clinical AI via Microsoft's Azure platform," says Chuck Martin, Co-Founder & Vice President of Business Development and Partnerships at Eastwall. "We are positioned to fill critical gaps in the healthcare sector, from cloud adoption to advanced AI applications, all while keeping compliance and data security at the forefront." About Asher Orion Group Asher Orion Group (AOG) is a global, independent, strategic product management firm for digital health and medical AI solutions. AOG is a pioneer in healthcare technology, providing cutting-edge solutions and consulting services that incorporate AI, clinical pathway optimization, regulatory strategy, and more. To learn more, visit www.asheroriongroup.com. About Eastwall Eastwall is a leading Microsoft services partner focused 100% on the Azure platform helping clients build, migrate, modernize, and manage their applications, infrastructure, data, and analytics in the cloud. Dedicated to driving meaningful impact, Eastwall has continually exhibited a commitment to aligning its services with healthcare organizations' strategic objectives through all phases of cloud adoption to deliver an exceptional Azure experience. To learn more, visit, www.eastwall.com Contact Chuck Martin Co-Founder, Vice President of Business Development & Partnerships Eastwall, LLC 636.312.3672 [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/eastwall-and-aog-partner-to-accelerate-clinical-ai-strategies-through-microsoft-azure-301939790.html SOURCE Eastwall [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Hong Kong to Attract Thousands of AI & Web3 Companies as CoinW Prepares for Hong Kong Branch Launch Tweet Dubai, UAE, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The world's largest AI & Web3 investment summit, EDGE, took place in Hong Kong on September 26-27, 2023. CoinW, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange platform, joined thousands of entrepreneurs, investors, scholars, and prominent project leaders from around the world at this prestigious event. Additionally, CoinW's Chief Communications Officer, Carmen Tan, was invited to discuss "How to emerge Alpha in crypto market" with industry investors during a panel discussion. Hong Kong Recognizes AI & Web3 as Key Economic Growth Drivers The EDGE Summit is renowned as the pinnacle event in the fields of artificial intelligence and Web3. While the inaugural event was held in Hong Kong, subsequent summits have been hosted in Dubai, London, and Silicon Valley. This time, it returned to Hong Kong, garnering support from key departments within the Hong Kong government. During the opening ceremony, David Chung, former under-secretary for the Innovation, Technology, and Industry Bureau of Hong Kong, emphasized Hong Kong's proactive embrace of tansformative technology of Hong Kong. The city sees AI & Web3 as crucial drivers of economic growth and is fostering collaboration across sectors from a governmental perspective. Furthermore, Mr. Ng shared Hong Kong's two-year plan for the AI & Web3 development. Since the beginning of this year, Hong Kong has been actively introducing top-tier projects in these fields. By May, approximately 84,000 related project applications had been submitted for operation in Hong Kong, with approvals granted for around 49,000. This marks a significant step in attracting global talent to Hong Kong. The city plans to attract at least 1,100 multinational companies to establish branches in Hong Kong between 2023 and 2025. CoinW's Hong Kong Branch on the Horizon In addition to setting up a booth at the summit, CoinW's newly appointed Chief Communications Officer, Carmen Tan, was invited to participate in a roundtable discussion on the topic, "Foresight: How to Emerge Alpha in Crypto Market." Carmen noted that the global crypto market is currently in a bear market, with several countries imposing stricter policies on digital assets. In response, CoinW has taken two key steps. First, they have proactively applied for operating licenses in the jurisdictions where they provide services, maintaining a commitment to security and compliance. Second, they've delved into education. Earlier this year, CoinW launched products like the CoinW Academy to cater to investors at different levels. Carmen believes that regardless of market fluctuations, investment decisions should be grounded in thorough research and comprehensive information. Simultaneously, CoinW is set to launch a new branch, CoinWHK, in Hong Kong. This branch aims to provide localized products and services to Hong Kong investors. Furthermore, CoinW has engaged local lawyers in Hong Kong to initiate the application process for the Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license. On June 1, 2023, the Hong Kong government officially implemented a new license regime for digital assets, opening up cryptocurrency investment and trading to retail investors. Ultimately, these recent developments position Hong Kong as a crucial player in the burgeoning Web3 landscape, with the impending CoinWHK launch further underscoring the commitment. Skylar Wu skylar_wu-at-legend.tech [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] CoinW Hosts Offline Meet-up in Vietnam,Signs Collaboration Agreements with Six Local KOLs Tweet Dubai, UAE, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam On the evening of September 25th, the 'Discovering the Crypto World' offline meet-up, hosted by CoinW, was held at the Le Meridien Saigon Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Notable local Vietnamese partners, institutions, and KOLs, including Coin98 and HC Capital attended. CoinW also signed collaboration agreements with six local Vietnamese communities and KOLs, aiming to drive growth in the Vietnamese market. The head of CoinW's Vietnam region highlighted CoinW's ecosystem, business advantages, competitive agent system, and benefits. He pointed out that since the launch of CoinW's copy trading feature in August 2022, its user-friendly platform and stable returns have made it the first choice for many novice users entering the cryptocurrency market. Additionally, CoinW traders can enjoy up to a 70% commission rebate on futures trading fees, settled automatically in USDT daily. This has attracted the most experienced cryptocurrency investors and traditional financial analysts worldwide, turning them into competent traders. According to publicly available data, CoinW's top traders have achieved an impressive ROI of up to 134%. CoinW has been deeply involved in the local Vietnamese market, signing collaboration agreements with six of the most influential local communities and KOLs, including TradeCoinVN and Ki?n Th?c Crypto9x. This collaboration will involve outstanding local Vietnamese traders joining CoinW as competent traders and hosting live streams, among other activities. CoinW entered the Vietnamese market in early 2022 and established a localized operation center in Vietnam. Over the past two years, CoinW has teamed up with an increasing number of well-known Vietnamese KOLs to provide convenient and secure localized digital asset trading services to Vietnamese users. In October 2022, CoinW made its debut at Vietnam Blockchain Week, and by the end of November, it hosted its inaugural offline meet-up in Vietnam. The head of CoinW's Vietnam region emphasized, Through offline interactions with the local community and KOLs in Vietnam, we hope to further deepen our presence in the Vietnamese market, making Vietnam a key stop in CoinW's global expansion. In the future, we will hold ongoing meetups in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, establish training centers, organize uni tours, host trading competitions, and expand the local market through excellent partners. Skylar Wu skylar_wu-at-legend.tech [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Royer Cooper Cohen Braunfeld LLC Proudly Welcomes Distinguished New Partners Tweet Royer Cooper Cohen Braunfeld LLC (RCCB), a law firm offering a distinctive combination of practical business acumen, legal expertise and entrepreneurial passion, today announced the addition of two new partners. David Fineman will contribute his expertise to the firm's Litigation Group, and Gary Krimstock will enhance the firm's Real Estate Group and Corporate & Business Group. Additionally, Rachel Rempel has joined RCCB as an Associate and will be part of the Litigation Group. RCCB looks forward to their arrival on October 2, 2023. Mr. Fineman is a seasoned litigator with experience working in the government, corporate and private sectors. He has devoted his career to counseling business owners' and elected officials on commercial litigation, business disputes, public finance, real estate and tax issues. He is well-respected for his civic accomplishments, having served on both mayoral and governor transition teams and holding several appointed positions, including Commissioner of the Pennsylvania Independent Regulatory Review Commission, a role he has held since 2009. "We are truly honored to have these fine attorneys join our ranks," said RCCB Managing Partner, John E. Royer, Jr. "Attracting attorneys with David's and Gary's well-earned reputations and invaluable perspectives will accelerate RCCB's growth and bolster the exceptional team of business-minded attorneys at the firm." Prior to joining RCCB, Mr. Fineman spent 35 years at his namesake firm, Fineman Krekstein & Harris. Throughout his career, he has served as special counsel to various federal, state and local municipal candidates and elected officials. Mr. Fineman frequently advises clients on how to navigate the court systems, political landscpe and the fundamentals of working with the government. He often serves as local coordinating counsel on cases where an understanding of the Philadelphia rules and systems are necessary. "In my earliest meetings with RCCB, I felt a level of comfort and trust and knew this is where I wanted to continue practicing law," said Mr. Fineman. "The RCCB team is interested in seeing everyone around them succeed, and that's very important to me. I believe my experience and connections in the business and civic community will support the culture they have established and help fuel the firm's impressive growth. Alternatively, I will be able to support my clients in new ways by working closely with this team of talented attorneys." Mr. Krimstock, also formerly a partner at Fineman Krekstein & Harris, concentrates his legal practice on real estate and business transactions, and litigation, with a focus on community association law, tax assessment appeals, zoning, business disputes, and administrative regulatory issues. He is respected for decades of experience representing real estate owners, developers, tenants, businesses and community associations in transactions and disputes, and has practiced before various administrative agencies, as well as state and federal courts throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. "It is a pleasure to welcome Gary to RCCB," said Royer. "His deep understanding of niche and complex real estate issues greatly expands the level of sophisticated counsel we can offer our Real Estate clients." Mr. Krimstock holds the distinguished title of Fellow at the CAI National College of Community Association Lawyers. He has served as legal counsel to the Greater Philadelphia Condominium Managers Association, and has previously held the position of President of the Community Associations Institute, Keystone Chapter. Mr. Krimstock is also a frequent speaker on real estate matters. "I am thrilled to join RCCB," said Mr. Krimstock. "Being part of a growing firm that is working on sophisticated legal matters is exciting to me. I'm eager to build relationships with talented attorneys who can benefit from my specialized knowledge and who can support my clients' broader legal needs." Rachel Rempel joins RCCB as an Associate. Prior to RCCB, Ms. Rempel served as an Associate for Fineman Krekstein & Harris in the firm's Litigation and Real Estate practice groups. She earned her law degree, cum laude, from Drexel University's Thomas R. Kline School of Law, where she was a Staff Editor for the Drexel Law Review. About Royer Cooper Cohen Braunfeld LLC RCCB empowers your ambition. We are attorneys who think and act like entrepreneurs and business people. We combine sophisticated, cost-effective legal counseling with the type of sound practical judgment that comes from hands-on business experience. We encourage entrepreneurial approaches and creative thinking, while maintaining the utmost in integrity and responsiveness. RCCB understands and delivers the advice that companies, business executives and investors, as well as individuals and their families, need to realize their hopes and goals. From offices in the Greater Philadelphia area and New York, RCCB serves clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond. Additional information about Royer Cooper Cohen Braunfeld is available at rccblaw.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928538985/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Desjardins named Best House, Capital Protection Americas at the Structured Retail Products Americas Awards Tweet Desjardins wins a record six awards for its range of structured products in 2023. MONTREAL, Sept. 28, 2023 /CNW/ - For the 12th year in a row, Desjardins made its mark at the SRP Americas Awards. The UK-based firm Structured Retail Products (SRP) held the 2023 edition on September 27 in Chicago, where it honoured Desjardins with the Best House, Capital Protection Americas. The winner was chosen based on total sales and external client satisfaction for its principal-protected structured products. "The awards we've won recently are a testament to the quality of the structured products we offer to our members and clients. It proves that Desjardins structured products are meeting a need, and it inspires us to develop even more innovative and better performing investment solutions," said Benoit Belanger, Manager, Guaranteed Product Development and Financial Modelling, at Desjardins Investments. "Desjardins has earned many international awards over the past 25 years. We'll continue to work hard to remain a leader and to develop and grow across Canada," added Belanger. In addition to this prestigious title, Desjardins also won the following SRP Americas 2023 Awards: Best House, Canada for the fourth year in a row. Desjardins had the best overall sales and external client satisfaction for its range of structured products. for the fourth year in a row. Desjardins had the best overall sales and external client satisfaction for its range of structured products. Best Capital Protected Distributor, Americas. This award is presented to the financial institution with the highest sales and overall performance for its capital-protected structured products across the whole Americas. This award is presented to the financial institution with the highest sales and overall performance for its capital-protected structured products across the whole Americas. Deal of the Year, Canada . Desjardins earned top honours for its Responsible Option Aggressive Guaranteed Portfolio, which offers exposure to companies that have been carefully selected for their environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitments. Desjardins earned top honours for its Responsible Option Aggressive Guaranteed Portfolio, which offers exposure to companies that have been carefully selected for their environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitments. Best Educational Initiative. Desjardins earned top honours for the quality of its online experience for market-linked guaranteed investments (MLGIs). In addition, at the second annual SPi Canada Awards for Excellence, held on September 20, 2023, Desjardins took home the award for Canada's Best GIC Issuer. This award recognizes the Canadian issuer of market-linked guaranteed investments, also known as market-linked guaranteed investment certificates (GICs), that scored highest in innovation, sales, product diversity and performance. About the research firms Structured Retail Products Ltd. (SRP) is a British research company providing highly detailed data, collected over more than 20 years, on all structured products sold in over 54 countries, representing over 30 million products. Te SRP Americas Awards are highly coveted in the industry. They recognize world leaders in structured products. Structured Products Intelligence (SPi), part of WSD, is a company based in London, England, that provides market intelligence, reference data and life cycle information for the structured product industry. The SPi Canada 2023 Awards Conference celebrates Canadian financial institutions that offer structured products. About structured products Structured products can be broken down into two categories: market-linked guaranteed investments (MLGIs), also called market-linked GICs in the banking world, and structured notes. An MLGI is a term deposit, as defined by the Deposit Insurance Act, which guarantees the initial investment and the minimum return, if any, at maturity. The variable portion of the return is linked to market performance. That means this type of guaranteed investment has a higher level of risk than traditional fixed-rate investments. At maturity, depending on how the markets perform, the variable return could be zero. However, any guaranteed interest will still be paid out. There's no way to be sure what the return based on market performance will be until the maturity date. Guaranteed investments are not a direct investment in the securities that make up the variable return portion. This means investors are not entitled to the same rights and benefits as shareholders, including the right to receive distributions or dividends, or the right to vote or attend shareholder meetings. Principal protected notes: This is a debt instrument issued by a recognized financial institution (Desjardins) with the initial investment guaranteed at maturity. The return potential is higher than for traditional fixed-income securities, due to the market exposure provided by a diversified reference portfolio, such as abasket of securities, or exchange-traded fund (ETF). Notes can also be redeemed at any time under certain conditions. Non-principal protected notes: This is a debt instrument issued by a recognized financial institution (Desjardins). The invested capital is not guaranteed. The client benefits from exposure to stock markets via a varied reference portfolio, and from different levels of protection at maturity. The potential return is generally higher than market-linked principal protected notes, to compensate for the risk of capital loss if the reference portfolio performs below a certain level. It is also possible to redeem the notes at any time under certain conditions. About Desjardins Group Desjardins Group is the largest cooperative financial group in North America and the fifth largest in the world, with assets of $409.6 billion as at June 30, 2023. It was named one of the World's Top Female-Friendly Companies by Forbes magazine. To meet the diverse needs of its members and clients, Desjardins offers a full range of products and services to individuals and businesses through its extensive distribution network, its online platforms, and its subsidiaries across Canada. Ranked among the world's strongest banks according to The Banker magazine, Desjardins has one of the highest capital ratios and one of the highest credit ratings in the industry. The variable return of market-linked guaranteed investments (MLGIs) may be nil at maturity. However, the initial investment and the annual guaranteed return, if any, are always guaranteed at maturity. Please read the investment agreement before investing. Principal protected notes may not be suitable for all investors. Important information is contained in the information statement and oral disclosure document for each principal protected note. These documents are provided on the summary page for each issue. Before purchasing investments, investors should read these documents carefully and discuss the investment's suitability with their investment advisor or dealer representative. The notes can only be purchased in the Canadian jurisdictions where they are legally distributed, and only from people who are registered and authorized to sell them. Investments in these notes carry certain risks. Returns on notes are determined by the change in value of the underlying assets over the course of the term. There may be no return payable to the investor. Returns cannot be determined before maturity and past performance is not indicative of future returns. Some notes may be subject to caps, participation rates or other limits affecting returns. For principal protected notes, the full principal amount is only repaid at maturity. Non-principal protected notes may not be suitable for all investors. Important information is contained in the base shelf prospectus, prospectus supplement and pricing supplement for each non-principal protected note. Before purchasing investments, investors should read these documents carefully and discuss the investment's suitability with their investment advisor or dealer representative. The notes can only be purchased in the Canadian jurisdictions where they are legally distributed, and only from people who are registered and authorized to sell them. Investments in these notes carry certain risks. Repayment of the full principal amount is not guaranteed and depends on the performance of the reference portfolio. You could lose part or virtually all of your initial investment. Returns on notes are determined by the change in value of the underlying assets over the course of the term. There may be no return payable to the investor. Returns cannot be determined before maturity and past performance is not indicative of future returns. Some notes may be subject to caps, thresholds, participation rates or other features affecting returns. Neither principal protected notes nor non-principal protected notes are considered insured deposits under Quebec's Deposit Institutions and Deposit Protection Act, the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation Act, or any other deposit insurance plan. SOURCE Desjardins Group [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Breakthrough Institute Highlights Critical Minerals' Role in Clean Transportation to Congress and Media Tweet WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Breakthrough Institute briefed congressional staff and members of the press on the findings of its latest report, Green Energy, Critical Minerals, and the Future of U.S. Public Policy at a briefing held on September 28, 2023, at the U.S. Capitol Building. The briefing highlighted some of the emerging challenges related to the United States shift toward clean energy and an increased adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). Specifically, the emphasis was on the significant role of critical minerals and their broader implications for U.S. public policy. Ashley Nunes, Director for Federal Policy, Climate and Energy at the Breakthrough Institute, commented on the gravity of the reports discoveries, stating Despite strict CAFE standards for non-EVs that aim to boost EV adoption, our data indicates that even with CAFE, mineral constraints could affect the pace of EV adoption." Nunes' remarks highlight the looming challenges in achieving set EV adoption goals, underscoring the pertinence of the institute's report. The research unveiled deep insights into the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)'s new proposed rules, targeting an increase in nationwide EV sales. Concurrently, there's a drive to shift the mineral sourcing aradigm for EV batteries to diminish reliance on dominant Chinese suppliers, known for their complex socio-environmental dynamics. This combined initiative prompts questions about the U.S.'s capability to meet both objectives with its current mineral resource availability. Elaborating on potential strategies and the Breakthrough Institute's recommendations, Seaver Wang, Co-Director for Climate and Energy, observed, Our mineral demand estimates emphasize the need for dedicated policy initiatives that focus on expanding the production of battery raw materials, especially graphite and cobalt. The report's analysis revealed that the EPA's regulations set a benchmark for the sale of at least 10.2 million EVs between 2027 and 2032. A broader projection indicates potential sales nearing 28.1 million EVs if following a middle-of-the-road scenario. Yet, the existing mineral output from the U.S. and its allies might only cover the production of approximately 5.1 million EVs during this period. This scenario would drastically fall short of both the minimum and the middle-of-the-road targets. Moreover, if the U.S. restricts its EV deployment to just half of the necessary 10.2 million EVs, the consequences might include the addition of nearly 60 million tons of CO2 between 2027 and 2032. Tackling this disparity, in alignment with EPA's vision, would require a significant expansion in the annual production of battery graphite and cobalt, potentially growing by up to 880% and 42%, respectively. To read the full report and its analysis, click here. For media inquiries, please contact: Ashley Nunes Director for Federal Policy, Climate and Energy (470) 301-6285 [email protected] [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Keystone Adds Ascent Insurance Group to its Oklahoma Network Tweet Recently, Keystone, the third largest participant-owned insurance agency network in the nation, added Ascent Insurance Group (formerly LBV Insurance) based in Edmond, OK to its growing network of agencies. "We are ecstatic to have Ascent Insurance Group join the Keystone family! The addition of Craig Linsenmeyer, Aaron Bogie, Shay Varnell and their forward-thinking team further elevates our presence in Oklahoma and builds on our standard of excellence," said Texas State Vice President Meghan Pizzolato. "The synergy between our organizations is incredible, nd the partners bring a lot of passion and tenacity to everything they do. The agency is in significant growth mode, adding services and additional physical locations, and we're here to support them all along the way." "As Ascent Insurance Group looks ahead to the future, our commitment to innovation, client-centric values, and unwavering dedication remains stronger than ever," commented principal Craig Linsenmeyer. "With this in mind, we are proud to announce this transformative partnership with Keystone! This strategic collaboration is poised to further propel our agency's expansion and innovation, solidifying our position as a leading provider of comprehensive insurance solutions." About Ascent Insurance Group - Ascent Insurance Group, a leading name in the insurance industry, proudly commemorates its 17th anniversary as a trusted provider of comprehensive insurance solutions. The company was established in 2006 by entrepreneur Craig Linsenmeyer as a one-man operation with a philosophy of placing client needs at the forefront. In 2008, the company added Aaron Bogie as a partner, fortifying and expanding its expertise and capabilities. The subsequent partnership with Shay Varnell in 2010 further solidified the company's dedication to excellence and customer satisfaction. Today, Ascent Insurance Group remains steadfast in its mission, with a team of 29 dedicated professionals who share a passion for exceptional service. Whether you live in Edmond, Oklahoma City, Yukon, Mustang, Norman, or any of the surrounding areas, we can become your insurance crusader. About Keystone Insurers Group (Keystone) - Keystone started in 1983 when four independent insurance agencies teamed up to pool their experience and expertise. This small group believed that agencies could be stronger and more successful if they linked arms. As we celebrate our 40th Ruby Anniversary, this passion and spirit continues. Growing to over 300 independent agency partners in 19 states, we provide our agents with a community of like-minded agencies, industry expertise and access to specialized products for their clients. Keystone is ranked number three on Insurance Journal's 2023 list of Top 20 Property/Casualty Agency Partnerships. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928930008/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Highland Electric Fleets Scales School Bus Electrification as EPA Announces Third Round of Clean School Bus Program Funding Highland welcomes the third round of funding and looks forward to working with additional school districts to deploy electric fleets BEVERLY, Mass., Sept. 28, 2023 /CNW/ -- Highland Electric Fleets, the leading provider of school bus fleet electrification-as-a-service, celebrates the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)'s third round of its Clean School Bus Program announced yesterday. Similar to Round 1, the EPA Clean School Bus Program's Round 3 will offer $500M in rebate funding using a lottery process. "All the districts we are working with who were awarded EPA Round 1 funds have projects successfully in development," said Matt Stanberry, VP of Market Develoment at Highland Electric Fleets. "With that success, and our extensive experience deploying electric fleets around the country, Highland is well positioned and excited to partner with school districts and the EPA to bring cleaner, healthier transportation to communities." For more information about the EPA Clean School Bus Program and details of the funding rounds, districts, parents or local advocates should review the information on EPA's Clean School Bus Program website and the Highland Electric Fleets website . About Highland Electric Fleets Highland Electric Fleets is the leading provider of electrification-as-a-service for school districts, governments, and fleet operators in North America. Founded in 2019, Highland offers a unique suite of products that make it simple and affordable to upgrade to electric fleets today. Active in 30 states and Canada, Highland is responsible for the first use of electric school buses in a commercial vehicle-to-grid (V2G) program and the largest electric school bus project in the United States to date. To learn more, visit https://highlandfleets.com Media contacts Mission Control Communications for Highland [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/highland-electric-fleets-scales-school-bus-electrification-as-epa-announces-third-round-of-clean-school-bus-program-funding-301942128.html SOURCE Highland Electric Fleets By Sophie Yu and Brenda Goh BEIJING (Reuters) -China Eastern Airlines said on Thursday it will buy another 100 C919 airplanes in a deal worth $10 billion at list prices, in what would be the largest ever order for the jet made by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC). The state-owned carrier said it had received a "substantial discount" for the deal and that the planes will be delivered in batches from 2024 to 2031. The list price for the C919 is $99 million but aircraft can be sold at discounts of up to 50%, especially for new models. The deal comes five months after the Chinese passenger plane, developed by state-owned COMAC to rival Airbus SE's A320neo and Boeing Co's 737 MAX single-aisle jet families, took its first flight in May with China Eastern. The Shanghai-headquartered, state-owned carrier is the first user of the C919 and has bought five of the jets, of which three have been delivered. The other two are expected to be delivered later this year. Boeing is still waiting to resume deliveries of its bestselling 737 MAX to Chinese airlines more than four years after they were halted following two deadly crashes. The company has been all but shut out of new orders from Chinese carriers since 2017 amid rising political and trade tensions between Beijing and Washington. Li Hanming, an independent aviation industry analyst, said the deal stemmed from a previous order of intent. "It is announced at the one year anniversary of C919's receiving its type certificate," Li said. "COMAC has made a good start in the delivery of C919 so far. Next, the plane manufacturer will cooperate with China Eastern more closely, to show other potential users the reliability and performance of C919." China Eastern said that the additional planes would add to its fleet at a time when air travel is seeing a strong recovery following three years of COVID curbs, and as the airline needs to retire a large number of its narrow-body aircraft due to their age. Story continues The airline said it would pay for the purchase in installments via its own funds, bank loans and bond issuance. China Eastern will get delivery of five aircraft in 2024, while ten are to be delivered each year from 2025 to 2027. From 2028 to 2030, 15 C919s will be delivered each year, and the last 20 jets will be delivered in 2031. Last week, GallopAir, a new Brunei-based airline, said it had signed a letter of intent to purchase 30 aircraft from China, worth $2 billion in total. The deal includes 15 orders of COMAC's ARJ21 aircraft and 15 of the C919. ($1 = 7.3035 Chinese yuan renminbi) (Reporting by Sophie Yu, Brenda GohEditing by Neil Fullick and Peter Graff and Miral Fahmy) [September 28, 2023] MyPebble (mPhase Technologies) Announces Annual Meeting Results Tweet Jacksonville, FL, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- mPhase Technologies, Inc. (OTC Pink: XDSL) (mPhase or the Company) currently rebranding as MyPebble, announced the results of its annual meeting of stockholders, held on September 20, 2023 at Company headquarters in Jacksonville, Florida. At the meeting: The four directors named in the proxy statement were elected to serve until the next annual meeting of shareholders or until their respective successors are elected and ratified; The voting results for all other proposals have not yet been ratified, pending additional review. For more detailed descriptions of these proposals, please consult the mPhase Notice of Annual Meeting of Stockholders document dated September 5, 2023. When complete voting results are available, the company will communicate the full proxy outcome as soon as possible. About mPhase Technologies (MyPebble) mPhase is a climate technology company rebranding as MyPebble to offer a suite of cloud-based mobility and consumer engagement services that incentivize consumers for purchases and lifestyle choices that promote sustainability goals. The MyPebble platform combines patented Wi-Fi anonymous-onboarding technology, proprietary AI, location-awareness, tokenization, game mechanics, EV-charger geofencing, a sustainable marketplace, and an expanding networkof applications to make personal sustainability easier and more rewarding. The MyPebble experience is unique in that it is tailored to each individuals tastes and needs, creating highly customizable sales opportunities for retailers, along with a scalable platform to benefit from the evolution of EV-centric travel and commerce. For more information about MyPebble and its suite of services, please visit https://business.mypebble.io/ and https://mypebble.io/. Or download our app here: iOS or Android. Investor Contact: [email protected] Media Contact: [email protected] Safe Harbor Statement This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements generally relate to future events or mPhases future financial or operating performance. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as "may," "will," "should," "expects," "plans," "anticipates, going to, "could," "intends," "target," "projects," "contemplates," "believes," "estimates," "predicts," "potential," or "continue," or the negative of these words or other similar terms or expressions that concern mPhases expectations, strategy, priorities, plans, or intentions. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those more fully described in previously disseminated corporate disclosures, such as quarterly and annual reports. mPhase disclaims any obligation to update information contained in any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] Revature Awarded for Innovative Talent Enablement Programs and Industry Leadership RESTON, Va., Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Revature , a leading tech talent enablement firm, today announced that it has received recognition from key industry award programs for its innovative talent enablement programs and industry leadership. Our team is devoted to transforming the way tech talent works, and our efforts empower our customers to build sustainable, more diverse talent pipelines while simultaneously creating career opportunities in technology for candidates from all different backgrounds, said Ashwin Bharath, CEO and co-founder of Revature. It is very rewarding to have these prestigious organizations recognize the innovation and impact our team continues to achieve. Revature Industry Award Recognitions The TITAN Human Resources (HR) Awards honors world class HR teams and individuals for their work executed across their organization. In the 2023 TITAN Human Resources Awards, Revature was recognized as a winner in the Best Learning & Development Strategy category. The American Business Awards honor and generate public recognition of the achievements and positive contributions of organizations and working professionals across the United States. Revature was recognized as a bronze winner in the Achievement in Diversity & Inclusion category. The Bulldog PR Awards recognizes the most outstanding PR and communications campaigns and extraordinary individual and agency contributions from 2023. Revature was recognized as a silver winner in the Best Newsjacking Campaign category for its joit campaign with REQ, a digital marketing and public relations agency, to educate the market on the opportunity gap in tech and how emerging tech talent can kick start their careers in the industry. Revature Executive Award Recognitions Bharath was named one of the Washington, D.C. areas top entrepreneurs and founders in Washingtonians 2023 Tech Titans . Published annually, the Washingtonian list recognizes the 225 most innovative and important people in the districts tech scene right now. Bharath was also named a bronze winner in the Best Entrepreneur in Business Services category by the American Business Awards . These awards honor the achievements and positive contributions of organizations and working professionals across the United States. The DCA Live Awards honor the most dynamic professionals in the Washington, D.C. region's legal, association & nonprofit, entrepreneur, federal tech, real estate, and corporate communities. Revature VP & Head of Human Resources Carol Baxter was named a winner in the 2023 DCA Live HR Leadership Awards . The ORBIE Awards is the premier technology executive recognition program in the country, honoring chief information officers and chief information security officers who demonstrated excellence in technology leadership. In the 2023 ORBIE Awards, Revature SVP of Technology Sean Regunath was named a finalist in the Capital CIO of the year category. Diversity Journals Women Worth Watching in Leadership Award honors the dynamic women who are using their talents and influence to enhance the workplace and change the world. Revature SVP of Customer Success & Delivery Vidya Shankaran was named a winner in the 2023 Women Worth Watching in Leadership awards. To learn more about Revature and its award-winning talent enablement programs, click here . About Revature Revature is a leading talent enablement organization and the talent development partner of choice for Fortune 500 companies, government organizations and top systems integrators. Since its founding, Revature has trained over 12,000 software engineers in the United States & Canada in 55 technical disciplines, recruited talent from 700 universities, and deployed them to blue chip companies throughout these regions. Those who complete the Revature program work on innovative, challenging, and rewarding software development projects with Revatures clients before being able to convert permanently and continue their rewarding technology career. To learn more, visit https://revature.com/ . Contact: Emily Brown REQ on behalf of Revature [email protected] [September 28, 2023] Merging Forces: Inszone Insurance Acquires Citizen Choice for Enhanced Service Reach Tweet Inszone Insurance Services, a rapidly growing national provider of commercial, personal, and benefits insurance, is thrilled to announce the acquisition of Citizen Choice Insurance & Investments marking a significant step in expanding its service offerings in Nevada. Citizen Choice Insurance & Investments is well-known for its dedication to personalized service and finding the right insurance for each person's needs. The agency doesn't just sell policies; it helps clients understand all the insurance choices out there. This helpful approach has made them a go-to choice for many people, families, and business owners who need reliable insurance and financial planning. "We are thrilled to welcome Citizen Choice Insurance into the Inszone Insurance family," said Chris Walters, CEO of Inszone Insurance Services. "This strategic acquisition not only represents a significant milestone for us but also reinforces our commitment to expanding our presence and enhancing our service offerings in Nevada. We look forward to building on the strong foundation that Citizen Choice has established and ontinuing to provide exceptional insurance solutions and personalized service to the local community." As a result of the merger, Citizen Choice Insurance & Investments will continue to operate from its existing Las Vegas office location and clients can look forward to a seamless integration, uninterrupted service, and access to an even broader selection of insurance options. With a shared commitment to excellence and a history of fostering strong client relationships, the partnership between Inszone Insurance and Citizen Choice Insurance & Investments is poised to create unparalleled value in the insurance industry. The acquisition also offers the opportunity for clients to explore an even wider range of insurance options, all backed by the expertise and resources of the merged companies. Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Sacramento, California, Inszone is a full-service insurance brokerage firm that provides a broad array of property & casualty insurance, along with employee benefits solutions. With a strong, experienced management team, Inszone continues to grow organically, as well as through acquisitions. With 41 locations across California, Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, and Utah, the company is looking to further expand throughout the United States. For more information about Inszone, please visit www.inszoneinsurance.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928025998/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] CrossWinds Counseling & Wellness Selects Leading CCBHC Technology Provider Netsmart Tweet CrossWinds Counseling & Wellness, a non-profit community mental health center, expands their partnership with Netsmart to bring Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) interoperability, care coordination and integrated data analytics by adopting the CareFabric platform, including the myEvolv electronic health record (EHR). Through this enhanced collaboration, Netsmart will equip CrossWinds with the technology and tools designed to deliver integrated, person-centered care as well as support their transition to a CCBHC. "Having started working with the Netsmart team utilizing CT|One, we look forward to the new capabilities and functionalities that our expansion with the CareFabric platform will bring to our organization," said CrossWinds CEO Amanda Cunningham. "Since first partnering with Netsmart, we have been fortunate to receive grant funding that will support our efforts to improve service delivery for the individuals we serve and provide better support to our staff by investing in technology that allows us to truly move with our community." CrossWinds will soon leverage myEvolv, an ONC-certified EHR specifically designed for organizations serving children and families, intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), autism services and behavioral health. The integrated platform offers a suite of solutions leveraging real-time analytics and clinical decision support to enable value-based care. Through this collaboration, CrossWinds will use technology to enhance coordination of care, interoperability and streamline key performance metrics (KPIs). These metrics are aligned with CCBHC quality standards and evidence-based practices that assist with meeting the program's federal and state-level requirements. "Having an advanced platform is so important to our team because it will equip them with the right data at the right time to make decisions when it comes to care," said CrossWinds Development Manager Lucas Moody. "We've seen a positive shft in the way people recognize mental health and how it impacts their physical health. As we continue to grow and evolve our services, we aim to further support underserved populations, enhance same-day services and equip our organization to meet the CCBHC requirements and readily adapt to potential expansions within the state." CrossWinds serves seven counties in eastern Kansas and provides counseling for all ages, medication support, crisis intervention, evaluations, testing and peer groups. Specialized offerings include a unique therapeutic, social-emotional preschool, a 24-hour care home, a criminal justice-mental health team and a dedicated Spanish-speaking clinic, El Centro Hispano de CrossWinds. The organization partners with local healthcare, law enforcement, courts, education institutions and serves 19 school districts and 57 schools, while providing resources directly to students in six schools. "CrossWinds and Netsmart share a deep cultural connection to our home state of Kansas and a passion for the health and wellbeing of the communities we serve," said Netsmart COO Tom Herzog. "The parity of individuals' mental health and physical health is so important, which is why here at Netsmart, we are dedicated to advocating for CCBHC funding for human services providers. We are thrilled to take our relationship with CrossWinds to the next level, as they continue on their CCBHC journey to improve access to care and further enhance the future of quality mental health services in their community." About CrossWinds Counseling & Wellness CrossWinds Counseling & Wellness is a non-profit organization, serving the residents of East Central Kansas since 1960. We are the area's only comprehensive mental health agency that helps people of all ages achieve wellness. CrossWinds is licensed by the State of Kansas as a community mental health center (CMHC) and as a certified substance abuse safety action program. Our mission is to provide dynamic, culturally sensitive, high-quality behavioral health care to residents of Chase, Coffey, Greenwood, Lyon, Morris, Osage and Wabaunsee counties in the most effective, caring and efficient manner. CrossWinds currently employs 190 people including psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, psychologists, professional counselors, case managers, attendant care workers and peer support specialists who focus on child, adolescent, adult and geriatric behavioral healthcare. Visit http://www.crosswindsks.org/ to learn more. About Netsmart Netsmart, a leading provider of Software as a Service (SaaS) technology and services solutions, designs, builds and delivers electronic health records (EHRs), health information exchanges (HIEs), analytics and telehealth solutions and services that are powerful, intuitive and easy-to-use. Our platform provides accurate, up-to-date information that is easily accessible to care team members in the human services and post-acute care and payer markets. We make the complex simple and personalized so our clients can concentrate on what they do best: provide services and treatment that support whole-person care. By leveraging the powerful Netsmart network, care providers can seamlessly and securely integrate information across communities, collaborate on the most effective treatments and improve outcomes for those in their care. Our streamlined systems and personalized workflows put relevant information at the fingertips of users when and where they need it. For more than 50 years, Netsmart has been committed to providing a common platform to integrate care. SIMPLE. PERSONAL. POWERFUL. Our more than 2,500 associates work hand-in-hand with our 754,000+ users at our clients across the U.S. to develop and deploy technology that automates and coordinates everything from clinical to financial to administrative. Learn more about how Netsmart is changing the face of healthcare today. Visit www.ntst.com, call 1-800-472-5509, follow us on our CareThreads Blog, LinkedIn and Twitter, like us on Facebook or visit us on YouTube. Netsmart is pleased to support the EveryDayMatters Foundation, which was established for behavioral health, care at home, senior living, and social services organizations to learn from each other and share their causes and stories. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928442977/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] 'Love Beijing' Short-video Contest Launched Tweet BEIJING , Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The fourth edition of the highly anticipated "100 Reasons to Love Beijing" short-video contest was launched on Wednesday, with creative talents from around the world expected to share their perspectives and stories about the vibrant capital. The launch ceremony was held in the Summer Palace on Wednesday evening with bright moon- light bathing the event, which was held two days before this year's Mid-Autumn Festival. Foreign experts, students and Chinese guests attended the launch ceremony, sharing their experiences of and attachment to the modern city and its long history. Xu Hejian, director of the Beijing Municipal Information Office, said in just three years the competition had become a remarkable success, with a staggering number of participants. The contest has garnered nearly 6,000 short-video submissions, and inspired the creative minds of more than 3,000 international contesants, he said. Liu Weiling, deputy editor-in-chief of China Daily, emphasized the power of the short videos and illustrations in showcasing Beijing's special allure. "Through the collection of these media formats, we hope to provide more foreign friends with an opportunity to personally experience the splendor of Beijing, while also sharing its unique charm with an even broader audience both domestically and internationally," Liu said. China Daily featured its well- known video show Potside Chats at the launch, with three foreign hosts sharing their experiences and views of Beijing while tasting traditional Chinese food including roast duck, sugarcoated haws and noodles with soybean paste. Stephanie Stone, Erik Nilsson and Jennifer Holstein named key words to express their feelings about Beijing, such as "convenience", "safety", "community" and "choices". "Community has been, by far, the most gratifying thing about living in Beijing," said Stone. "There are good people everywhere and creative people everywhere. All these amazing creatives from around the world have somehow found their way to Beijing and connected." Nilsson said he loved raising his children in Beijing, while Holstein expressed how great it was to be able to return home at midnight without worrying about her own safety. The theme of this year's contest is "In Beijing", allowing contestants to delve into the multifaceted essence of the city and depict their personal encounters and discoveries. To participate, individuals can submit their video entries at the web address, http://bj100.spotlightbeijing.com, as well as via China Daily's new media platform. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/love-beijing-short-video-contest-launched-301942179.html SOURCE China Daily [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Great American Insurance Group Announces the Promotion of Joseph R. Kowaleski to Senior Vice President & Chief Information Officer Great American Insurance Group is pleased to announce the promotion of Joseph (Joe) R. Kowaleski to Senior Vice President & Chief Information Officer. Mr. Kowaleski will assume this role effective October 2, 2023. He succeeds James (Jim) R. Niehaus, who will retire in January 2024, after more than 16 years of distinguished service with the company. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928166774/en/ Joe Kowaleski (Photo: Business Wire) Mr. Kowaleski joined the company in 2017 and most recently served as Divisional Senior Vice President overseeing IT infrastructure and corporate applications. In his new role, he will lead IT strategic direction for the company. Prior to joining Great American, Mr. Kowalski held various IT leadership roles at an American multi-national information technology company. Mr. Kowaleski earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Michigan and a Master of Business Administration from Wayne State University. About Great American Insurance Group Great American Insurance Group's roots go back to 1872 with the founding of its flagship company, Great American Insurance Company. Based in Cincinnati, Ohio, the operations of Great American Insurance Group are engaged primarily in property and casualty insurance, focusing on specialized commercial products for businesses. Great American Insurance Company has received an "A" (Excellent) or higher rating from the A.M. Best Company for 115 years and is currently rated "A+" (Superior). The members of Great American Insurance Group are subsidiaries of American Financial Group, Inc. (AFG), also based in Cincinnati, Ohio. AFG's common stock is listed and traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol AFG. Websites: www.GAIG.com www.AFGinc.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928166774/en/ [September 28, 2023] Fairview Microwave Unveils Engineering-Grade Adapters Tweet New Adapters Combine Durability with Optimal RF Performance IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fairview Microwave, an Infinite Electronics brand and a leading provider of on-demand RF, microwave and millimeter-wave components, has announced a new line of engineering-grade adapters. It includes both in-series and between-series RF and microwave adapters that cater to the myriad demands of the ever-evolving tech industry. Fairview's new engineering-grade adapters boast a wide range of connectors optimized for high-frequency and low VSWR performance, ensuring efficient transmission and minimal loss in various applications. Constructed from stainless steel, these adapters embody durability, making them suitable for diverse applications and environments. Their resilience and outstanding performance set them apart in the saturated market. One of the standout features of these adapters is their low VSWR, which ensures that power transfer between components is as efficient as possible, reducing signal reflections and enhancing overall system performance. Moreover, with the inclusion of popula connector options, these adapters demonstrate versatility, making them compatible with a broad spectrum of devices and systems. What truly sets Fairview Microwave's engineering-grade adapters apart is the harmonious blend of quality and affordability. While the adapters are meticulously crafted for optimum performance, they are competitively priced, providing customers unparalleled value for their investment. "We continue our legacy of delivering top-tier products that don't compromise on quality, durability or performance," said Product Line Manager Kevin Hietpas. "For those looking for reliable and high-performing adapters that don't break the bank, these are the ideal choice." Fairview Microwave's new engineering-grade adapters are in stock and available for same-day shipping. For inquiries, please call +1 (949) 261-1920. About Fairview Microwave: A leading supplier of on-demand RF and microwave products since 1992, Fairview offers immediate delivery of RF components including attenuators, adapters, coaxial cable assemblies, connectors, terminations and much more. All products are shipped same-day from the company's ISO 9001:2015-certified production facilities in Lewisville, Texas. Fairview Microwave is an Infinite Electronics brand. About Infinite Electronics: Based in Irvine, Calif., Infinite Electronics offers a broad range of components, assemblies and wired/wireless connectivity solutions to the aerospace/defense, industrial, government, consumer electronics, instrumentation, medical and telecommunications markets. Its brands include Pasternack, Fairview Microwave, L-com, MilesTek, ShowMeCables, NavePoint, INC Installs, Integra Optics, PolyPhaser, Transtector, KP Performance Antennas, RadioWaves and Aiconics. Infinite serves its customers with deep technical expertise and support. Its broad inventory is available for immediate shipment, fulfilling unplanned demand for engineers and technical buyers. Infinite is a Warburg Pincus portfolio company. Press Contact: Peter McNeil Fairview Microwave 17792 Fitch Irvine, Calif. 92614 +1 (978) 682-6936 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fairview-microwave-unveils-engineering-grade-adapters-301936913.html SOURCE Fairview Microwave Inc. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] SCALE AI is announcing investments of more than $20 million in 5 AI projects for intelligent supply chains Tweet MONTREAL, Sept. 28, 2023 /CNW/ - SCALE AI announced today, during Canada's ALL IN event, investments totalling more than $20 million for five AI projects across key economic sectors. By strengthening the supply chains with AI-powered technologies, these solutions enable companies of all sizes to increase their productivity and efficiency. Led by ALDO Group, EllisDon, ATS, Visual Defence, and Cleo, these collaborative projects show that Canadian AI technology provides a global competitive advantage for businesses. By supporting these five projects, SCALE AI pursues its role of building a stronger AI ecosystem with investments that accelerate the demand for AI by Canada-based companies. The Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, Canada's Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, says: "When applied by human intelligence and vision, AI has the potential to positively impact the entire supply chain. Since its creation, SCALE AI has invested in concrete artificial intelligence applications to encourage the growth of leading Canadian companies in many sectors. This announcement shows a continued dedication to this growth, with each project announced today helping to build a more resilient and efficient supply chain in Canada." Julien Billot, CEO, SCALE AI, explains: "SCALE AI investments generate benefits by helping Canadian companies create more innovative and efficient supply chains. Through the funding announced today, SCALE AI contributes to further advancing AI commercialization for Canada's small and medium enterprises." Helene Desmarais, Co-Chair of the Board of Directors, SCALE AI, adds: "SCALE AI continues to accelerate the integration of AI, reshaping business models, enhancing decision-making models, and elevating workforce performance so that organizations, big or small, can reach their full potential." 5 new projects representing total investments of $20 .3 million To learn more about the projects, click here . ? Revenue Management for Retail & Supply Chain Through Artificial Intelligence Partners: ALDO Group, IVADO Labs, Retailogists, ITL Group SCALE AI investment: $3.6 million Total investment: $9.3 million ? AI-Driven Subcontractor, Labour and Equipment Management Partners: EllisDon Inc., Yeji Data Lab, Guild Electric Limited, Stephenson Rental Services, VR Mechanical Services SCALE AI investment: $1.8 million Total investment: $4.6 million ? Autonomous Procurement Pricing System Partners: ATS, Demtool Inc., Waterloo Analytics, University of Waterloo (Vision Image Processing Lab), OERP Canada SCALE AI investment: $0.9 million Total investment: $2.5 million ? Resilient Supply Chains Through Well-Maintained Transportation Systems Partners: Visual Defence Inc., The Regional Municipality of York, City of Windsor, Prof. Michel Gendreau (Polytechnique Montreal), Keenline Innovation Technology & Training Inc. SCALE AI investment: $0.9 million Total investment: $2.3 million ? Predicting Usage Cycles for Electric Vehicles Partners: Cleo, IVADO Labs, Autobus Seguin, Transco SCALE AI investment: $0.4 million Total investment: $1.6 million About Scale AI ( scaleai.ca ) As Canada's AI Global Innovation Cluster, Scale AI acts as an investment and innovation hub that accelerates the rapid adoption and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and contributes to developing a world-class Canadian AI ecosystem. Based in Montreal and funded by the federal government and the Quebec government, Scale AI works with more than 500 industry partners, research institutes, and other players in the field of AI. The organization develops programs to support investments in companies that implement real-world applications of AI and encourage the emergence of future Canadian flagships in the sector, all while facilitating the development of a highly skilled workforce. SOURCE Scale AI [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] TEGNA Station WWL in New Orleans Receives News Emmy Award Tweet TEGNA Inc. (NYSE: TGNA) today announced that WWL, its CBS affiliate in New Orleans, received a News Emmy for Outstanding Regional News Story: Investigative Report for "The Man Behind the Warehouse." Awards were given out last night by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS). "The Man Behind the Warehouse" is a three-part investigation that takes a deep dive into how more than 800 nursing home residents ended up in squalor in a Tangipahoa Parish warehouse after Hurricane Ida. WWL's anchor/investigative reporter Katie Moore's series laid out a timeline of how the situation unfolded, exposing how the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH), which regulates nursing homes and nursing home evacuations, signed off on the facility in the days prior. Moore and WL's reporting contributed to changing of laws regarding nursing homes' evacuation plans that have to be filed with the LDH. "Congratulations to WWL and Katie Moore on being recognized for this outstanding and important work," said Lynn Beall, EVP and COO of media operations, TEGNA. "This honor recognizes the impact of local journalism in making positive change in our communities." "Katie's work gave a voice to those whose voices may have otherwise gone unheard," said Tod Smith, president and general manager, WWL. "This series reflects Katie's commitment to making Southeast Louisiana a better place to live and our entire team is humbled by this recognition." About TEGNA TEGNA Inc. (NYSE: TGNA) is an innovative media company that serves the greater good of our communities. Across platforms, TEGNA tells empowering stories, conducts impactful investigations and delivers innovative marketing solutions. With 64 television stations in 51 U.S. markets, TEGNA is the largest owner of top 4 network affiliates in the top 25 markets among independent station groups, reaching approximately 39 percent of all television households nationwide. TEGNA also owns leading multicast networks True Crime Network, Twist and Quest. TEGNA offers innovative solutions to help businesses reach consumers across television, digital and over-the-top (OTT) platforms, including Premion, TEGNA's OTT advertising service. For more information, visit www.TEGNA.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928373969/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] 16 Spanish startups explore the American market with Mobile World Capital Barcelona Tweet With this recent delegation there are now more than one hundred Spanish companies that together with MWCapital, are exploring the opportunities presented by the American market MWCapital organised this initiative together with the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Digital Transformation, through Red.es, the Generalitat of Catalonia with ACCIO, and the Barcelona City Council with International Economic Promotion and Barcelona Activa. BARCELONA, Spain, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The sixth edition of the initiative organised by Mobile World Capital Barcelona in the North American country together with the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Digital Transformation - through Red.es -, the Government of Catalonia - with ACCIO - and Barcelona City Council - International Economic Promotion and Barcelona Activa - has come to an end. With the current delegation that has been selected to participate in MWC Las Vegas 2023, more than one hundred startups from Spain have been able to explore the opportunities offered by the American market. During the three days of MWC Las Vegas, 16 startups presented projects about Blockchain's capacity to provide solutions for data security and integrity, as well as on Virtual or Augmented Reality and its ability to offer virtual spaces for training, remote work, meetings, virtual events and even showrooms or devices for the diagnosis of health parameters such as coronary or degenerative pathologies. "We are very proud to promote an initiative that entrepreneurs take advantage of to showcase innovations and digital-based companies seeking to address social problems and generate a real impact within society and the economy," concludes Francesc Fajula,CEO of Mobile World Capital Barcelona. Activities and opportunities offered to Spanish startups During the week they've been able to participate in pitching sessions with different institutions to present their companies, conduct one-to-one meetings and networking sessions amongst other activities to project their proposal to the American market. Furthermore, the delegation chosen by MWCapital to participate in the technological congress has been able to participate in different activities such as Level UP, a dynamic pitching session allowing founders to present their companies and receive immediate feedback from a panel of venture capitalists. This dynamic has allowed delegation companies to create ties with panellists and audiences. Tech4Girls is another of the activities that the startups had the opportunity to be part of. The initiative promoted by GSMA aims to break the traditional gender gaps present in the technological sector, to empower young women, and facilitate their access to the telecommunications industry. Through this global programme, the delegation met with 50 of the women in a session allowing them to exchange experiences. In addition, Francesc Fajula, CEO of Mobile World Capital Barcelona, participated in the Keynote "Invest in Digital Economy: Where Is the Next Unicorn" to talk about the current digital economy and the importance of emerging companies. The session was also attended by Tatiana Zander, Director of Disruptive Technologies of Ericsson, Sandro Tavares, Director at Dell Technologies and Heather Brown, President and Co-Founder of StartUP Vegas. Mobile World Capital Barcelona Mobile World Capital Barcelona is an initiative that promotes the digital development of society and helps improve people's lives globally. With public and private support, MWCapital focuses its activity on four areas: the acceleration of innovation through digital entrepreneurship; the transformation of industry through digital technology; the growth of digital talent among new generations and professionals; and reflection on the impact of technology on our society. Together, the programmes are positively transforming the economy, education and society. MWCapital hosts MWC in Barcelona and is the founder of 4 Years From Now (4YFN), the business platform for the startup community present at all MWC events around the world. For more information: Estel Estopinan [email protected] +34 656 25 83 94 Emily Henley [email protected] +34 673 004 102 Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2234566/Mobile_World_Capital_Barcelona_MWC_Las_Vegas.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2234565/Mobile_World_Capital_Barcelona_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/16-spanish-startups-explore-the-american-market-with-mobile-world-capital-barcelona-301941941.html SOURCE Mobile World Capital Barcelona [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] (Bloomberg) -- As Europes top trade chief headed to Beijing this month shortly after announcing a probe into Chinas electric vehicle subsidies, some in the bloc braced for fiery criticism and any hint of retaliation. Most Read from Bloomberg Instead, the Europeans found President Xi Jinpings government ready to talk, make promises and avoid aggressive rhetoric that could inflame an economic relationship worth $900 billion. While Vice Premier He Lifeng expressed concern and dissatisfaction over the probe, he agreed to set up several working groups including on financial services and trade curbs. Beijings careful managing of its ties with a top trading partner comes amid a broader push to stabilize geopolitical relationships, as an economic slowdown at home deflates expectations it will ever overtake the US as No. 1. China has hosted four cabinet-level White House officials in Beijing in recent months, and reestablished working groups with the US ahead of a potential Xi meeting with President Joe Biden in November. The Chinese leader Tuesday pledged to promote stable relations with Italy, even as the nation plans to exit his signature Belt and Road Initiative. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on his Hungarian counterpart, Peter Szijjarto, to push the EU to adopt a more open China policy, in a phone call Wednesday. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, meanwhile, is likely to come to China soon, in a clear sign ties have improved from a nadir in 2020. At that time, both sides were highly critical of each other and China was tariffing and blocking Australian exports. Beijing is aware that its in desperate need of repairing its ties with the EU, said Alicja Bachulska, policy fellow at European Council on Foreign Relations Asia Programme, citing the Asian nations increasingly protectionist and security-focused economic policies. That is why its rhetoric was relatively mild. Story continues Naked Protectionism When Europe announced the probe into subsidies for electric vehicles earlier this month, Beijing initially blasted that move a naked act of protectionism. That sparked concerns in Europe that China had over-reacted and could trigger a trade war, according to European officials who asked not to be named. China didnt publicly repeat that criticism during Valdis Dombrovskis four-day trip to the country. Instead, the European official was the one who delivered the strongest language blasting Chinas stance on the war in Ukraine as a liability for its image as a good investment destination, and threatening to be more assertive about rectifying a yawning trade imbalance. Dombrovskis had reason to feel confident. Xi has struggled for years to find a response to US sanctions, tariffs and export controls that makes his nation look tough without scaring off foreign companies. Beijing responded to then-US President Donald Trumps trade curbs with its own unreliable entities list, but only used the tool for the first time in February this year on two US defense firms with limited business in China. In July, Beijing imposed export restrictions on two niche metals, gallium and germanium, that are critical for electric cars and chips, in its most meaningful retaliation to US and European trade curbs. That sparked concerns about short-term disruptions to supply chains, and fears that a more serious trade war with Beijing could undermine the EUs green ambitions. The Chinese Commerce Ministry in Beijing, however, this month said it had already approved some companies to ship those products overseas. That came after reports Chinas exports of the metals had plunged, at a moment when the economy is being hurt by slowing demand for its overseas shipments. Charm Offensive Any retaliation to Europe could undermine the Communist Partys charm offensive to woo foreign investors exiting the nation. Cross-border flows of direct investment into and out of China have slipped to the worst deficit in seven years. In August, a major EU business group warned that foreign firms in China are suffering from promise fatigue. While Xis government has pledged in the past year to step up help for private firms and treat them on par with state-owned ones, overseas companies are waiting for tangible progress on much-desired reforms, according to the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China. China needs foreign capital and knowledge for its own modernization program, said Peter Hefele, policy director focused on China at the Wilfred Martens Centre for European Studies. Next to the US, Europe is the only region to acquire those critical factors. Europes value to China was laid bare last year when the blocs trade deficit with Beijing for goods reached more than $400 billion. Dombrovskis said the huge spike in that number in recent years had prompted cause for scrutiny. Those comments came after the EU unveiled a new economic security strategy earlier this year, seeking oversight of critical technology exports to China, a signal the bloc is edging closer to Washingtons approach toward Beijing. The US has imposed a slew of trade curbs on China to hold back Beijings military development as tensions flare over Xis territorial ambitions toward the self-ruled island of Taiwan. Theres no doubt the EU is being more assertive, said Andre Sapir, senior fellow at Bruegel and former economic adviser to former EU President Romano Prodi, pointing to the announcement of the EV probe as a symbol of that. Its partly to send a message to the Chinese that we are toughening up. --With assistance from Alberto Nardelli. (Updates with Chinese Foreign Minister comments in the fourth paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. [September 28, 2023] rsted Completes 200 MW Wind Farm in Kansas Tweet Sunflower Wind will be rsted's 13th operational wind farm in the United States with capacity to power more than 70,000 homes MARION COUNTY, Kan., Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- rsted, a leading U.S. renewable energy company, today announced the start of operations for Sunflower Wind, a wind farm located in Marion County, Kansas. To celebrate this achievement in clean energy development, as well the economic benefits it stands to bring to the local community and the greater state of Kansas, rsted hosted a gathering attended by partners, landowners, community members, and local and state elected officials. "Sunflower Wind not only adds to the historic string of mega business investments in Kansas by?creating new jobs and driving more private investment into our State, but it will be the first project operating in Kansas to install light mitigating technology that will help preserve our night skies," said Governor Laura Kelly. "Further, Sunflower Wind has announced a great local partnership to?ensure 3,000 acres of native, intact grass will remain protected as we continue to tout the ecological treasure we have in the scenic Kansas Flint Hills."? In addition to providing affordable, clean energy, Sunflower Wind will provide economic benefits to its host community and state economies. The wind farm is projected to inject tens of millions of dollars in property tax revenue over the next thirty years, which will help fund local infrastructure, shools, and emergency services with no added burden to local taxpayers. The project will also utilize a new Aircraft Detection Lighting System so that the nighttime lights on the turbines blink only when aircraft are detected to reduce light pollution for residents. "We're thrilled to celebrate this achievement and our first clean energy project in Kansas with the community, legislators, and our participating landowners," said David Hardy, Group EVP and CEO Americas at rsted. "With Sunflower Wind, we now have 13 operational wind farms in the U.S., generating 832 MW in the Southwest Power Pool." rsted pioneered a landmark supply chain decarbonization effort to deliver renewable energy access and bundled renewable energy credits from Sunflower Wind to nine companies. Working with Schneider Electric, rsted entered into Power Purchase Agreements with Amcor, PepsiCo, Stryker, Citizens, and Walmart's Project Gigaton Cohort, which includes Amy's Kitchen, Great Lakes Cheese, The J.M. Smucker Co., Levi Strauss & Co., and Valvoline Global Operations. rsted is committed to building its renewable energy projects sustainably with a goal of ensuring that all its projects have a net-positive biodiversity impact starting in 2030. Working with The Conservation Fund, rsted is supporting voluntary land conservation efforts for up to 3,000 acres located within the Flint Hills in central Kansas. In addition, rsted is partnering with The Kansas Chapter of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) to restore additional land under conservation easements. Throughout development and construction of the project, rsted prioritized supporting businesses in Kansas and Marion County. rsted added $13 million to the local economy by buying equipment, materials, and supplies from local businesses. In addition, rsted has invested $3 million into permanent infrastructure improvements for Marion County, including public road upgrades, for the surrounding area during the project's development. rsted currently has nearly 6 GW of onshore renewable energy capacity in operation or under construction and aims to reach 17.5 GW of global onshore renewable energy capacity by the end of the decade. About rsted A global clean energy leader, rsted develops, constructs, and operates offshore and land-based wind farms, solar farms, energy storage facilities, and bioenergy plants. rsted is the first energy company in the world with a science-based net-zero emissions target as validated by the Science Based Targets initiative.? In the United States, the company has approximately 700 employees and a growing portfolio of clean energy assets and partnerships that includes offshore wind energy, land-based wind energy, solar, storage technologies and e-fuels. A leader across the renewable energy sector in the United States, rsted holds the top position in offshore wind energy with approximately 5 gigawatts in development and operates America's first offshore wind farm, located off the coast of Block Island. rsted has a total U.S. land-based capacity of 5 gigawatts across wind, solar, storage technologies and e-fuels. To learn more about the rsted U.S. business, visit us.rsted.com or follow the company on?Facebook,?Instagram, and?Twitter?(@rstedUS).? View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/orsted-completes-200-mw-wind-farm-in-kansas-301942359.html SOURCE rsted [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 28, 2023] VR360 Leads The Trend With Virtual Reality Technology Tweet DA NANG, Vietnam, Sept. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Established in 2019, Digital Transformation Solution Joint Stock Company (VR360) is an organization operating in the field of creating and applying the latest technology in digital transformation such as VR, AR, 3D, 360, Metaverse, Digital Twin. VR360 believes in the value of innovation, constantly improving products and services such as VR360 Virtual Tour, Matterport 3D Scanning, and 3D model of objects - AR, providing unique and fascinating experiences for customers in many fields such as tourism, real estate, education, retail, factories, industrial parks, and banking. In the age of Industry 4.0, when technology plays a crucial role in the development of each country, many businesses need to apply digital transformation solutions to their business projects. However, on the market at this time there are still not many units providing services and products related to digital transformation, especially virtual reality (VR) technology. Seizing potential new opportunities, VR360 brings practical products and services, meeting all the needs of businesses in digital transformation using VR, creating 360-degree virtual tours is full of usefulness. Furthermore, VR360 also provides services such as 360 photography, and 360-degree website design, to meet all the demands of customers on the voyage closer to digital transformation. "Using virtual reality technology for a business's activities such as Marketing, Adertisement, and Sales is a process that requires support from businesses with specialized, and experience. VR360 is proud to be one of the pioneering businesses providing digital transformation solutions in this field," Mr. Trinh Cong Quang - CEO and Founder of VR360 - shared. After 5 years of operation, with more than 500 projects done, VR360 has built a solid brand reputation by providing high-quality virtual reality solutions to counterparts such as Vietceramic, Dong Tam, National Economics University, Anh Hong Factory, Mik Group. In particular, VR360 has the opportunity to collaborate with departments to construct virtual reality tours in Da Nang City, Hoi An Ancient Town, and My Son Sanctuary - Quang Nam, not only helps spread images and tourist destinations to domestic tourists but also easily introduces them to international friends, opening up opportunities for exchange and cooperation at home and abroad. In the journey of bringing digital transformation solutions to businesses, VR360 is honored to win noble awards: Top 2 Viet Solutions 2022, and Top 2 World Metaverse Show 2022. Recently, vrMall - A virtual reality shopping center was first built and developed by the VR360 team and was honored to receive the Top Startup award from Tuoi Tre newspaper in 2023. This is also the result of the tireless efforts of the VR360 team. VR360 is increasing gradually proving its position in the industry meanwhile continuing its mission to accelerate the pace of digital transformation in Vietnam. To learn more about VR360 as well as services and projects, please feel free to contact us at: Digital Transformation Solutions Joint Stock Company (VR360) Email: [email protected] Website: https://vr360.com.vn Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vr360vnvirtualtour/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAWWcfIpwvB8Y9Bgu9pRy8w Linkedin: https://vn.linkedin.com/company/vr360dtsgroup Twitter: https://twitter.com/VR360_DTSGROUP Established in 2019, VR360 always believes in the value of innovation, constantly improving products and services such as VR360 Virtual Tour, Matterport 3D Scanning, 3D Object Modeling - AR, providing unique and fascinating experiences for customers. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/vr360-leads-the-trend-with-virtual-reality-technology-301941543.html SOURCE VR360 [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] This story spoke to us because it inspired protest against police in the middle of red state Missouri and in a mostly white community that decried the needless loss. The deputy left this Sheriff's office and in 2021 a special prosecutor shared the opinion that the case was avoidable but justifiable. Here's what might be the final note in a painful saga which reminds us that tragedy can happen anywhere: Hannah Fizer's father filed the lawsuit in 2021 after her death in June 2020. Former Pettis County Deputy Jordan Schutte shot Fizer during a traffic stop, saying the 25-year-old threatened to shoot him. She was not armed. Court records don't disclose the settlement amount, which a judge approved earlier this month. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . If you guessed that this cynical publicity stunt at the expense of the working poor, the war in Urkaine, the UAW strike, the Republican debate & the plight of the Uyghurs was complete . . . Not. Even. Close. Bud. Take a peek . . . "Superstar recording artist Taylor Swift is expected to attend the game in New York City, according to reports by Front Office Sports and NFL Insider Jordan Schultz." Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . Reports: Taylor Swift expected to attend Kansas City Chiefs-New York Jets game on Sunday night The newest member of Chiefs Kingdom will reportedly be present at this Sunday's game between the Chiefs and the New York Jets. Update and sign that the worst is yet to come . . . Taylor Swift Wraps Arm Around Travis Kelce's Neck in New After-Party Photo Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are clearly two people comfortable with each other ... as Taylor draped her arm around the NFL stud's neck following his big team win Sunday. Developing . . . This note stands out and we thought readers might appreciate the perspective in the midst of Mayor Q's contradictory advocacy alleged in this note . . . TKC Reader: Hypocrisy The Kansas City Mayor is asking the Missouri Supreme Court to throw out the voters decision on increasing funding for the KCPD. The Mayor believes his view on the funding amendment should trump the will of the voters and the Court should step in to vacate the democratic election where voters rendered a resounding decision. The Mayor urges the Missouri Court of Appeals to reject Detective Eric DeValkanaeres appeal of his conviction saying to vacate the conviction would be destructive to the integrity of the criminal justice system and the ruling of a single judge. Justice, the Mayor tells us, demands the conviction be upheld, not overturned. Justice and democracy suffer immeasurably in Jackson County. ############ You decide . . . Former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo delivered a keynote speech at the 1st American Mediterranean Investment Forum organized by the Joseph Sassoon Group at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation in the Athens area, ANA reports. In his address, Pompeo spoke of the important relations between the United States and Greece, and the Mediterranean, and emphasized security and economic issues, while referring to common prosperity. RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations, Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report Children and adults can build fairy houses and express themselves through other art forms, from chalk to photography, at a free outdoor event this weekend. Organizers are calling on residents of Scarborough Junction, Clairlea and Warden Woods to artivate St. Clair Ravine Park on Saturday, Sept. 30. Neighbourhood groups hope activities from 2 to 4 p.m. will help children and adults have fun in a natural setting and call for the return of a vanished bridge over Taylor Massey Creek. Fairy houses will be built from natural materials found in the ravine, which is between Warden Avenue and Birchmount Road at 3390 St. Clair Ave. E. Fairies look after the forest when we cant be there and like everyone else in Toronto, are experiencing a housing crisis, explains a release from Scarborough Junction Community. Made possible by a grant from Torontos non-profit Park People, the afternoons activities include a photo contest, chalk drawings led by the Scarbrite Collective and a sketching workshop by Monica Guittierez, a local artist. Scarborough Junction Community said a walking bridge over the creek, a Don River tributary, was not replaced after sewer and water main work in the park. People want the bridge to be rebuilt soon to connect our communities to the park and nearby neighbourhoods, the group said. Firefighters rescued one person trapped on the balcony of a Scarborough apartment that was engulfed in flames early Thursday. Fire crews were called to a highrise at 400 McLevin Ave. near Neilson Road and Finch Avenue at 1:33 a.m. for a report of a dryer fire in a ninth-floor unit. "There was heavy, heavy smoke in many of the hallways and the stairwell, so crews had some difficulty finding the unit," said Toronto Fire Services Capt. Bill Papakonstantinou, adding that the fire was "spread throughout the unit" and that "during the course of that fire, the occupant of that unit escaped to the balcony and was trapped there." Papakonstantinou said firefighters rescued the trapped person with the use of an aerial truck. Toronto Paramedic Services deputy Commander Stewart Morris said paramedics assessed two people on scene. "One person refused transport to hospital. The second person was transported to hospital with minor to moderate injuries." Papakonstantinou said fire crews extinguished the fire and eventually cleared the smoke. "We're there now doing fire watch," he said at about 8 a.m., adding "whoever was living (in the unit) is displaced." More than two dozen fire trucks were dispatched to the three-alarm blaze. Ontarios public high school teachers have voted in favour of binding arbitration if negotiations with the province dont lead to a deal by the end of October meaning no labour disruption for the next three years. In a month-long vote that ended Wednesday night, 78.4 per cent of members of the Ontario Secondary School Teachers Federation approved the plan that last month was overwhelmingly supported and recommended by the unions local leaders and chief negotiators. For over 14 months, we have tried to engage the Ford government in good faith bargaining but we havent had a partner at the table that cares about safeguarding our public education system, said Karen Littlewood, president of the 60,000-member OSSTF. Now we have the opportunity to bypass traditional bargaining pathways to secure a fair collective agreement for both teachers and education workers represented by the union. Littlewood said the agreement also paves the way for teachers and school staff to be compensated for lost wages under provincial legislation that capped raises but has since been ruled unconstitutional by the courts. Education Minister Stephen Lecce said via social media that he was pleased with the result of the vote, calling it a significant step forward in providing stability for high school students. In August, the Ontario Secondary School Teachers Federation (OSSTF), the province and school boards proposed negotiating until Oct. 27 and to then send any outstanding issues to arbitration. The unions members teachers, as well as early childhood educators and school support staff have now given that plan the go-ahead. Lecce continues to urge the three other teacher unions to also accept binding arbitration, though none have to date though the approval of OSSTF members will up the pressure on them to accept. At least two OSSTF union locals had said they were unhappy with the proposal, with those in the Windsor-area and Toronto expressing concerns around giving up the right to strike. Meanwhile, talks continue between all teacher unions, the province and school boards associations. They have been without contracts since August 2022, and the agreement between the high school teachers union and the province was the first real breakthrough after little progress was made at the bargaining table. The other teacher unions representing public elementary, Catholic and French-language teachers have said they would prefer to bargain a deal. Education bargaining is twofold, with provincial talks hammering out big-ticket items such as salary, as well as talks between union locals and individual boards on more administrative matters. Under the deal, OSSTF and the province will head to binding arbitration on all outstanding issues after Oct. 27. Local bargaining will continue until March 28, after which binding arbitration will be used. That rules out the possibility of any strikes, provincial or local, during the life of the contract. Meanwhile, the Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario recently reached a tentative agreement with the province for its 3,500 education workers mainly early childhood educators and a ratification vote is scheduled to be held between Oct. 18 and 23. Kristin Rushowy is a Toronto-based reporter covering Ontario politics for the Star. Follow her on Twitter: @krushowy National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is on Sept. 30, but will be observed this year on Monday, Oct. 2. This day examines the legacy of residential schools, missing children, the families left behind and the survivors of these institutions. While being officially recognized by the Canadian government in 2021, Sept. 30 was originally known as Orange Shirt Day. Being first observed in 2013, Orange Shirt Day was created as part of an effort to promote awareness and education of the impact of colonialism on Indigenous cultures and communities. In honour of this important day, we've put together a list of five books we recommend you read, celebrating Indigenous culture and helping pave the road to reconciliation. 1. "Seven Fallen Feathers: Racism, Death, and Hard Truths in a Northern City" by Tanya Talaga From 2000 to 2011, seven Indigenous high school students died in Thunder Bay, Ont. They lived hundreds of kilometres away from their families, forced to leave home because there was no adequate schooling on the reserve. Award-winning journalist Tanya Talaga delves into the history of this northern city that has come to manifest Canada's long struggle with human rights violations in Indigenous communities. 2. "Five Little Indians" by Michelle Good Taken from their families when they are very small and sent to a remote, church-run residential school, Kenny, Lucy, Clara, Howie and Maisie are barely out of childhood when they are finally released after years of detention. With compassion and insight, "Five Little Indians" chronicles the desperate quest of these residential school survivors to come to terms with their past and, ultimately, find a way forward. 3. "In My Own Moccasins: A Memoir of Resilience" by Helen Knott Helen Knott seems to have it all. But in her memoir, she offers a different perspective. "In My Own Moccasins" is an unflinching account of addiction, intergenerational trauma, and the wounds brought on by sexual violence. It is also the story of sisterhood, the power of ceremony, the love of family, and the possibility of redemption. 4. "Blanket Toss Under Midnight Sun" by Paul Seesequasis In 2015, writer and journalist Paul Seesequasis found himself grappling with the devastating findings of Canada's Truth and Reconciliation Commission report on the residential school system. He embarked on a social media project to collect archival photos capturing everyday life in First Nations, Metis and Inuit communities from the 1920s through the 1970s. As such, Blanket Toss is not only an invaluable historical record, it is a meaningful act of reclamation, showing the ongoing resilience of Indigenous communities, past, present and future. 5. "In This Together: Fifteen Stories of Truth and Reconciliation" edited by Danielle Metcalfe-Chenail What is real reconciliation? This collection of essays from both Indigenous and non-Indigenous contributors from across Canada welcomes readers into a timely, healing conversation one we've longed for but, before now, have had a hard time approaching. Without flinching, they look deeply and honestly at their own experiences and assumptions about race and racial divides in Canada in hopes that the rest of the country will do the same. All five books are available at your local public library. If you would like to read them on an electronic device, head over to the Ontario Library Service Download Centre and find them there. China's top envoy to Washington issued a broad call for better bilateral relations, asking for more "concrete, small steps" such as faster visa processing, but stopped short of signalling whether President Xi Jinping would meet his American counterpart Joe Biden at a coming Asia-Pacific leaders summit. Addressing a crowd of dignitaries, academics, government officials and others in the US-China orbit at his embassy on Wednesday - including Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel Kritenbrink - ambassador Xie Feng also acknowledged China's current economic difficulties and said Beijing had "no intention" of displacing other countries. "While a lot has changed in China-US relations, the fact that we are interdependent has not changed," Xie said at the start of a National Day programme that included a Julliard School recital. "Our people's enthusiasm about greater exchanges and cooperation has not changed. Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team. "Our focus is to be a better self," he added. "We have no intention to challenge, out-compete or displace anyone else." US President Joe Biden greets Ambassador Xie in the Oval Office of the White House on June 30. Photo: Xinhua alt=US President Joe Biden greets Ambassador Xie in the Oval Office of the White House on June 30. Photo: Xinhua> Xie made his comments as speculation rises over whether Xi will attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) leaders summit in San Francisco less than two months away. A meeting is increasingly seen as the most important step in halting the steady deterioration in bilateral relations in recent years on nearly every front. While Biden has sent several top administration officials to Beijing in recent months and the two sides have established two working groups, which Xie lauded in his speech, it remains to be seen whether Xi and Biden will meet to solidify the bilateral engagement. Story continues Sticking points include the apparent refusal by Washington to invite Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu to Apec. Lee is one of several officials the US sanctioned in 2020 for "undermining Hong Kong's autonomy". In his first public remarks about Xi's potential attendance at Apec, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Tuesday that Beijing was "communicating with all parties" concerning the forum. China will "announce formally in due course", Wang said. Xi has absented himself from three significant international summits in recent weeks: in August, he skipped a business forum of the Brics economic group in South Africa, and this month he passed on the Group of 20 leaders summit in New Delhi and the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee has not been invited to the Apec leaders summit in San Francisco in November. Photo: AP alt=Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee has not been invited to the Apec leaders summit in San Francisco in November. Photo: AP> Concerning Apec, Wang said China was willing to meet "international expectations to play a constructive role in the success of Apec this year", but that Beijing expected Washington to "realise the responsibility of a host". Wang's language was similar to that used in June by foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin when he called on Washington to invite Lee. "Host economies have the responsibility to ensure the smooth participation of the representatives of all members in the meetings," the spokesman said then. "We believe the US will deliver on its commitments and make sure that representatives of all Apec members, including Hong Kong, China, will participate smoothly in the Apec events." Chinese President Xi Jinping appears at the opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou on Saturday. Photo: Xinhua alt=Chinese President Xi Jinping appears at the opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou on Saturday. Photo: Xinhua> While avoiding any commitment on Xi's presence at Apec, Xie suggested US and Chinese officials set a timetable for a doubling the number of direct flights between the two countries. He pointed out that Beijing had recently shortened the processing time for American visa applications to four days, and called for reciprocity. He also called on Washington to renew the US-China Science and Technology Agreement, which came into effect in 1979, that expired against a backdrop of opposition to the pact from US lawmakers. Some Democrat and Republican members of Congress have warned the State Department not to renew the agreement owing to fears of intellectual property theft and unintended benefits to the Chinese military. Turning to his country's economy, which has been dragged down by a moribund real estate market, Xie asserted that "every country has its own problems to tackle". "While facing some difficulties and challenges, the Chinese economy has been on an upward trajectory generally", he said, pointing to an 11 per cent year-on-year increase in domestic tech sector investment in the first half of 2023 and the fact that "over 500 million Chinese went to the movies this summer". US-China Business Council president Craig Allen, one of two Americans speaking after Xie's address on Wednesday, pulled the issue directly into the evening's discourse. The other American speaker was Stephen Orlins, president of the National Committee on US-China Relations. "It is imperative that both countries cooperate on many issues: arms control, regional stability, global food security, public health, narcotics control and many other areas of global public good," Allen said. "It is for this reason, on this auspicious day that we look forward to continued and sustained government-to-government dialogue," he added. "We thank the two governments for their fulsome preparation for the Apec summit ... and we would very much like to welcome a robust Chinese delegation led by His Excellency Xi Jinping." This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright 2023 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. Copyright (c) 2023. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. The personality of New York City shines out of every page of Roaming, the new book by Jillian and Mariko Tamaki. From folding a slice of pizza in half to taking the subway to Coney Island, this is as New York as it gets. But its creators Canadian cousins who make beautiful graphic novels together insist you dont need to look too deeply to find Canadian identity in this story of three girls on a spring break trip to the big city. Its a book about Canadians who are Canadian in so many ways no matter where they go, explained Mariko Tamaki, co-writer of Roaming, which has just been published to resounding acclaim. We are inescapable to ourselves. And the comment came in reaction to one from Jillian, artist and co-writer, who noted: Sometimes you feel your identity most strongly when youre removed from your original or usual context. The Tamakis have a strong understanding of identity, returning to a story of queer romance in this, their third graphic novel together. Roaming, as might be expected from creators with armfuls of awards, is a remarkable book. Reading it means experiencing a satisfying slab of swirling, two-colour art, and a story that will resonate with anybody whos seen a friendship suddenly become complicated. And, following Skim in 2010 and This One Summer in 2014, it continues themes around girls growing up, sexuality, forming relationships and more but especially how we develop our sense of self. This new graphic novel, as the cousins first departure from YA literature, benefits accordingly from added depth and a maturity in its content, and from having characters in their late teens. The first kernels of the books were, I suppose, reflecting on being in first year university, said now Toronto-based Jillian, who was born in Ottawa but grew up in Calgary. I went to Queens and it truly felt like I had landed on the moon. I couldnt believe frosh week was legal. That semester I met a lot of different people unlike anyone I had met or been friends with at home. It was a time of a lot of expansion and fun, and I wanted to explore that. Roaming shows us that joy and excitement in exploring new places for the first time, and how travelling together can change a relationship and help to develop a sense of self. Jillian also pointed out this book was created during COVID restrictions, when its creators were unsure when or if they could travel again. Somewhere in its makeup is an emotional need to roam, to be a curious Canadian abroad. And, inescapably, any conversation with these creators leads to the unusual family relationship behind the books, even leading Mariko to suggest very Tamaki as an identity in itself. The creative cousins have noticed they are more often being asked about their long-term collaboration and how it works. It makes sense, was Jillians take on that line of questioning, saying she hoped people can see patterns and, hopefully, evolution in the three books. The cousins dads are brothers, but Jillian and Mariko didnt spend much time together until they were adults. Interestingly, they come from a family of mostly tax and law people, according to Jillian. Our extended family is loud as hell when we get together. We get dirty looks in restaurants. As to how being part of the same family affects their writing process, Mariko, a Torontonian in California, offered: I suppose there arent a ton of families working in comics together, so it is unique! I think there is a very familial, familiar vibe to the way we are with each other and how we work. Were definitely very Tamaki, whatever else it is that we are in addition to that. I would say were lucky that were both interested in the same things and also invested in the act of working with each other, which is key to collaboration: the desire to make something with someone else, to see what shape that would take, to be able to be as invested in that as you would be in something that has only your name on it, which we both also get to experience as artists who also work solo. Im also incredibly grateful to have a connection with Jillian and to be able to work on these books together. I feel very lucky that our way of working has worked even as it evolves. And of course they share values that show through passionately in their storytelling, all of which can be seen as diverse stories told in meaningful ways. Its here and in their other work, from Jillians compelling collection Boundless (2017) to Marikos work on superhero books, such as DC Comicss 2021 YA book I Am Not Starfire, in which a superheros daughter struggles to fit in. Identity is there throughout, with plenty for the reader to ponder. Asked what they want people to take away when they finish reading Roaming, Mariko summed it up well. I hope it haunts them in a good way, she said, knowing the power of a good book to get people thinking. Jillian added another layer of fun, saying, Damn, being 19 is weird. Both responses seemed very Tamaki. Correction - October 3, 2023: This article was edited from a previous version that mistakenly said Jillian Tamaki grew up in Ottawa. In fact, Tamaki was born in Ottawa but grew up in Calgary. Mike Donachie writes about graphic novels for the Star from London, Ontario Toronto writer Jessica Westheads great theme is anxiety. Not for nothing was her second novel titled Worry; Westhead excels in characters whose defining features tend to be their fear of something, be it disease, some undefinable harm to their children or the state of the world. Or bears. In Pioneers, one of the 14 stories in Westheads barbed new collection, the first-person narrator goes on a camping vacation with her husband and their daughter because cottages are off limits due to COVID-19 restrictions. The womans husband, Carl, is enthusiastic about the prospect of the family roughing it like a kind of romanticized troupe of settlers Itll be fun! We can pretend were pioneers! while she becomes intensely concerned upon learning that there might be a bear in the area. As the narrators anxiety begins to overtake her, she drinks beer to lull herself to sleep, only to wind herself up into fits of agitation when she finds she must exit her tent in the night to urinate. The fun Westhead is having with her character here is infectious (as perhaps is appropriate for a story with the pandemic in the background), but the surface playfulness belies a deeper seriousness. When the woman goes to light a fire, she becomes agitated because her husband tells her to roll the newspaper into logs, despite the fact that she is the one who routinely lights the fires in the cottages the couple rent in non-COVID years. The woman, who as a girl engaged in what would today be considered cultural appropriation by sleeping in a plastic teepee and dressing in Indigenous garb at Halloween, prefers to arrange her kindling in a log cabin formation rather than a teepee formation; Westhead subtly insinuates the white familys association with settlers pioneers who have appropriated Indigenous land and participated in structural inequities that have kept Indigenous people down for centuries. (The womans fear of nature is another subtle jab at white shortcomings.) This is typical of the stories in Avalanche, which feature a clutch of white characters, all of them soft liberals, who cant seem to manifest their stated social justice beliefs in their actual lives. The library patron in Moments With Mustafa thinks she is being open-minded by questioning the Muslim security guard about his background and experiences in Afghanistan, when in reality she is utterly oblivious to the discomfort her incessant hectoring instils in him. In a moment of sublime comedy, she becomes irate at a fellow patron who has the temerity to ask Mustafa when the library is closing. Similarly, the anonymous email writer in Gary How Does a Contact Form Work Do I Just Type in Here and Then Hit Send? The woman is reaching out to an online blogger to thank her for her chickpea curry recipe; her message is replete with uncomfortable racist undertones and a blatant attempt to exoticize the online writer, whose name, Aliyah, is unique and difficult to spell. Aliyahs recipe, the woman suggests, is a much-needed dose of tropical sunshine and the photo online is helpful in convincing readers the food is authentic. This kind of clueless attitude makes her husbands accusation Your colonialist roots are showing that much more pungent. The central characters in the collection are united by their absolute lack of self-awareness. The father in Mister Elephant, who recognizes an old schoolmate as the local zoos elephant trainer, takes his young daughter to see her in the expectation that the grown woman will have fond memories of him, not realizing that she found him creepy and unsettling as a child. Likewise the protagonist of the title story, a woman who plans to take her young daughter to the Womens March to demonstrate how independent women can be, seems utterly unaware of the irony behind the fact that she has acquiesced to her husbands demand that she leave work to take care of their child full-time. The woman fashions a placard for her young daughter that reads, I am a snowflake. Together we are an avalanche. Its a blatant cliche and one that the woman isnt capable of understanding even in her own life. Steven W. Beattie is a writer in Stratford, Ont., and runs the blog That Shakespearean Rag. SYDNEY, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Australia's flagship deep tech incubator Cicada Innovations has appointed Dr Katherine Woodthorpe AO FTSE FAICD as its new Chair, resulting in one of Australia's flagship and longest-standing deep tech institutions now being helmed by two women for the first time in 23 years. Dr Katherine Woodthorpe & Sally-Ann Williams Dr Woodthorpe will replace outgoing Chair, Andrew Rothery , who occupied the role for almost 8 years alongside CEO Sally-Ann Williams. Mr Rothery will now dedicate his valuable skills and experience to his extensive portfolio of board and committee roles. Dr. Woodthorpe brings 30+ years' experience commercialising technologies across a broad range of critical industries, including environmental and climate science, renewable energy, and healthcare. She is a serial Chair, non-executive director (NED), CEO, director, and President, and recently became the first woman elected as President of the Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering (ATSE). Notable former board roles include the Antarctic Climate and Ecosystems CRC, Sirtex Ltd, Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), the Antarctic Science Foundation, the Commonwealth Government's National Climate Science Advisory Committee which developed the "Climate Science for Australia's Future" report, Natural Hazards Research Australia, and Fishburners. She still retains NED roles at the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, RACE for 2030 CRC, AnteoTec Ltd, and Bioplatforms Australia. Dr Woodthorpe played a key advisory role in creating the home of Cicada Innovations, formerly named the Australian Technology Park or "ATP", and now known as the South Eveleigh precinct. She was also on the advisory board of Cicada Innovations even before it was named ATP Innovations . Her appointment demonstrates the strength, capabilities, and critical role women can and must play in deep tech and STEM which, according to Cicada Innovations, will be critical to Australia achieving its full potential in commercialising the critical technologies that will create the industries of tomorrow. Story continues Sally-Ann Williams, CEO of Cicada Innovations, said: "Having a female trailblazer join Cicada's board with the sheer breadth and depth of experience Katherine brings is a strong signal to everyone that there is a critical role for women to play in leadership in this crucial sector. "Katherine understands the architecture, leadership and advocacy needed at a national level to facilitate growth in complex economies founded on science and engineering businesses. I believe she will help to elevate Cicada Innovation's role not just nationally but also internationally. "We need more women and people from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM and deep tech, because their skills, capabilities, experience, and different ways of thinking drive better decision-making and outcomes. Creating visibility around this also helps to remove the stereotypes and artificial barriers that tell the world there isn't a place or role for women in STEM. This is patently untrue. Everyone is welcome, and everyone is needed." Dr. Katherine Woodthorpe, incoming Chair of Cicada Innovations, said: "Australia is still struggling to find enough scientists and engineers to ensure we hold our place in an increasingly tech-orientated future. If we don't encourage half the population to view STEM as a fulfilling career - and then create an environment where this is actually the case - then we are wasting half of our nation's brain power. "As the adage goes, you can't be what you don't see. In this context, the more normalised and uncontroversial we make it for women to occupy senior roles in STEM, the more girls and young women will see that there are genuine career opportunities awaiting them too. "I look forward to the day when no one actually notices that there are two women at the helm of deep tech because it has become commonplace, a fact of life. As we strive towards this, I look forward to working with Sally-Ann to enable more deep tech entrepreneurs to achieve their full potential, while cementing Cicada Innovations as the leading deep tech incubator in the region." Andrew Rothery, outgoing Chair of Cicada Innovations, said: "Women have been under-represented in so many areas of business and public life, and we are all the poorer for it. We have to remedy this, if we are to achieve our full potential as a nation. "I wholeheartedly welcome Dr Woodthorpe to Cicada Innovations. She brings significant experience and skills to the board table. I am confident that she will help elevate Cicada Innovations to another level of impact in the deep tech commercialistion space. "In my time here, I have had the privilege of working with two exceptional CEOs, Petra Andren and Sally-Ann Williams. Both of these extraordinary women have excelled in their role of advancing the interests of deep tech commercialisation in Australia. It's difficult to speak about deep tech commercialisation in Australia without referring to Cicada Innovations in the same sentence. If there is a place for women to be championed and encouraged into deep tech and STEM more generally, it's undoubtedly in this organisation." According to The state of STEM gender equity in 2023 report , women make up only 37 percent of enrolments in university STEM courses, hold just 15 percent of STEM-qualified jobs, and earn 17 percent less than men in STEM fields overall. Women also occupy just 23 percent of senior management roles in STEM, however this figure drops to a concerning 8 percent in the C-suite. Cicada Innovations ( www.cicadainnovations.com ) is the home of deep tech in Australia. Founded in Sydney, Cicada Innovations has a 23-year track record of developing deep tech ventures that tackle some of the world's most pressing problems. Cicada's national incubators, commercialisation training, and community brings together the entrepreneurs, scientists, business leaders, and policymakers to solve complex challenges with deep tech like the future of human health, food security and the climate crisis. Since its inception more than two decades ago, Cicada has seen an unprecedented $1.3 billion in exits from six deep tech ventures, and has helped over 300 companies raise more than $1.8 billion in funding. It has twice been named the 'Top Incubator in the World' by the International Business Innovation Association and has delivered commercialisation training to thousands working in the science and technology sectors. Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/cicada-innovations-appoints-dr-katherine-woodthorpe-as-chair-progressing-diversity-in-stem-and-deep-tech-301940432.html SOURCE Cicada Innovations Citizens Insurance policyholders can expect to see higher premiums when they receive their next renewal letter after the Citizens Board of Governors approved a double-digit rate hike on Wednesday. The historic average 11.5% increase for homeowners with the most common type of policies comes after regulators ordered the company to revise its previous request to increase rates by an average of 13.3%. The revised hike averages out to 12.3% when averaging personal lines. Commercial lines will see an average 10.2% increase. The personal lines rate increases will take effect Dec. 16, while the commercial increases will take effect Nov. 20. Citizens depopulation letter: Citizens Insurance policyholders face higher rates if they don't respond to delayed letter Meanwhile, nearly 300,000 Citizens Insurance policyholders are facing a rapidly approaching deadline after the company sent out a wave of depopulation letters alerting them that the company will be switching their policy to a different company unless they reply to the letter. Policyholders normally have 30 days to respond to take-out policy letters like these, but a delay led to many with less time to respond. Citizens provided a five-day extension moving the deadline to Oct. 5. Depopulation letters are part of Citizens plan to reduce its number of policies. Citizens was created as an insurer of last resort, but its number of policies has exploded during the past three years as private carriers have dropped customers and sought large rate increases because of financial problems. Citizens had 511,055 policies on Sept. 30, 2020; 708,919 policies on Sept. 30, 2021; and 1,071,850 policies on Sept. 30, 2022, according to data on its website. Many state leaders have long sought to move customers out of Citizens into the private market, at least in part because of the risk that policyholders across the state including people who do not have Citizens policies could be forced to help pay claims after a major hurricane or multiple hurricanes. Story continues But officials say Citizens often charges lower premiums than private insurers, reducing the incentive for customers to leave Citizens. How to save on home insurance: Florida homeowners insurance rates are rising. How can you protect your home and save? Private companies in recent months have received state approval to make hundreds of thousands of takeout offers to Citizens customers. That included regulators in July approving proposals by five carriers to assume up to 184,000 policies from Citizens in October. Also, on Sept. 1, regulators approved proposals by seven carriers to assume up to 202,000 policies in November. Not all of those policies will leave Citizens, as offers might include premiums that are far higher than what Citizens charges beyond the new 20 percent premium threshold. But Citizens officials expressed concerns Wednesday about making sure customers targeted by the private companies see the offers and make informed decisions. One of the concerns stems from companies making offers to large numbers of customers that would lead to premium increases higher than 20 percent. If offers are higher than the 20 percent threshold, policyholders have to notify Citizens that they want to keep Citizens coverage. The concern, at least in part, is that some customers will not read the notices and will be shifted into the private market at much-higher rates. This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Citizens Insurance gets OK for historic double-digit rate hike Who was responsible for the procurement of twenty wooden ladders for the Fire Service? It's By Jeff Murphy, September 28, 2023 WARRENSBURG, MO The University of Central Missouri Office of Human Resources announces the 2023 Employee Benefits Fair and annual flu shot event 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 10, in Elliott Student Union, Rooms 237 A-B. Part of the universitys ongoing efforts to offer services to help meet faculty and staff needs, the Employee Benefits Fair is an opportunity to learn more about UCM benefits, according to Cory Wicker, Ph.D., associate vice president of human resources. Those who attend can stop at a variety of tables where they can meet with individuals representing Blue KC, The Standard, Delta Dental, and others who can discuss health benefits, supplemental retirement solutions, and more. This is s an opportunity for employees to get answers to their questions, Wicker said. With flu season approaching, employees can take steps to help fight influenza by getting a vaccination. Skilled nurses will be available to administer the shots to interested employees. To help ensure efficiency, faculty and staff are encouraged to dress accordingly and bring a copy of their insurance card and the signed consent form, which they can obtain online. They can avoid the wait by using the online scheduler by clicking here. Additional information about flu shots was included in an email Wicker sent to faculty and staff on Sept. 27. This included instructions for scheduling a vaccination, and a Flu and You flyer with information about how individuals can help prevent the spread of the flu, symptoms, and more. To learn more about the UCM benefits, including this upcoming event, contact Human Resources at 660-543-4255 or visit the offices website. By Janice Phelan, September 28, 2023 Thanks to a public school district-higher education partnership, the main hallway of the Missouri Innovation Campus in Lee's Summit will be traveled, beginning next summer, by students enrolled in the new Bachelor of Science in Data Science program. Beginning next year, the Missouri Innovation Campus (MIC) program will launch a highly sought-after bachelors degree combining artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and data science. The Bachelor of Science in Data Science will start in summer 2024, said Stan Elliott, MIC program director, and is offered through the MIC programs partners the University of Central Missouri, Lees Summit R-7 School District and Metropolitan Community College. In January 2023, Elliott said he began hearing requests for the new degree from the MIC programs business partners. The business partners were asking if UCM had an AI program and, if so, when would interns be available for the Kansas City regions workforce as the AI push was growing at a fast pace, Elliott said. With the Data Science BS degree program starting in June 2024, interns in the MIC program would be available in June 2025 when they begin their paid, three-year, year-round internship with one of our over 70 MIC business partners. The new MIC program will be chaired by Dr. Belinda Copus, UCM assistant professor and chair for the UCM Department of Computer Science and Cybersecurity. The BS Data Science degree was created to address the regions needs to make vast streams and stores of data sensible and actionable across many domains, public and private, Copus said. We will provide the workforce with graduates who have both the theoretical knowledge and the practical skills to better inform decisions, make new discoveries and increase datas value. I can think of no better partner than the MIC program to enable accelerated delivery of formal classroom instruction coupled with hands-on, real-world learning opportunities. We look forward to bringing this innovative delivery of our program to fruition. Since the Missouri Innovation Campus program began in 2012, the goal of this one-of-a-kind initiative has been to keep information technology and engineering talent within the Kansas City area, decrease the cost of a college degree, reduce the time it takes to earn a bachelors degree, eliminate the skills gap and provide a real-world learning experience through three-year, paid internships. Currently, 90 percent of the MIC program graduates go to work for the company they interned with, keeping workforce talent in the region, Elliott said. The first MIC program cohort that can take advantage of the new Data Science degree program will be the 2024-28 cohort that will start after their sophomore year in high school and will graduate in May 2028 from UCM only two years after graduating from high school, he added. And since they receive their first two years of college tuition free, our students graduate with little to no debt. Students enter the MIC program the summer before their junior year in high school when they begin attending Lees Summit R-7s Summit Technology Academy. The students take college-level classes from UCM and Metropolitan Community College alongside their high-school courses. This places the MIC students on an accelerated pathway to complete their UCM bachelors degree just two years after high-school graduation. The program has received national recognition for reshaping the path to a college degree. In addition to the Bachelor of Science in Data Science, the Missouri Innovation Campus program includes pathways to BS degrees in Drafting and Design Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, Business Administration in Big Data/Business Analytics and Business Administration in Computer Science Information Systems. For more information, visit the MIC program webpage. By Jeff Murphy, September 28, 2023 WARRENSBURG, MO - Becoming a fall tradition at the University of Central Missouri, the Missouri Court of Appeals, Western District, will convene court at UCM on Oct. 11. The oral arguments will be held in the ballroom of the Elliott Student Union on campus beginning at 9 a.m. A three-judge panel consisting of Judge Janet Sutton, Judge Alok Ahuja, and Judge Mark Pfeiffer will hear oral arguments in four cases. After the oral arguments, the judges will take time to discuss the court system and take general questions from the audience. Judge Sutton will preside over the proceedings in Warrensburg. Judge Sutton was appointed to the Western District in 2021. Prior to that, she served as a municipal judge for the City of Excelsior Springs and as an associate circuit judge and a circuit judge in the 7th Judicial Circuit (Clay County). Judge Ahuja joined the Western District in 2007. Previously, he practiced law in Washington, D.C. and Kansas City. Judge Pfeiffer was appointed to the Western District in 2009. Before his appointment to the judiciary, he practiced law in Springfield and Columbia. The court regularly convenes court in Kansas City. For more than 25 years, however, the court has held dockets in several of the 45 counties in the courts jurisdiction, which includes all of northwest Missouri and most of central Missouri. The court hears oral arguments outside of Kansas City to give individuals an opportunity to observe a part of the judicial system they normally do not see and to familiarize those attending with the court's role in the judicial system. DOVER, Del., September 28, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As part of a strategic initiative to improve building, planning, code enforcement and inspections operations, the City of Plano, Texas, has selected Claritis Community Development Platform to replace its current solution. Implementation services will be provided by Unisys, a trusted Clariti partner. The largest city in Collin County and the fourth largest city in the Dallas Fort-Worth Region, Plano is home to nearly 300,000 residents and growing. Currently, the citys legacy permitting software TRAKiT doesnt offer the functionality needed to meet its efficiency and productivity goals, which prompted their search for a new system. With the project, the city aims to use the trusted Clariti platform to improve the customer experience and existing business processes performed by the departments responsible for Community Development. "The City of Plano has their entire organization behind this project to improve Development services. Were excited to partner with Unisys to bring best practices and a modern, configurable platform to the government agency," says Clariti Co-CEO, Cyrus Symoom. Specific goals for the project include: Providing 24/7 self-service via an online portal Reducing customer service turnaround time Providing mobile access for city staff and the public Simplifying communications between staff, the public, and different departments Eliminating disparate systems, workarounds, manual processes, and data re-entry Tracking and completing plan review steps electronically, with one integrated system Improving data sharing and analytics with real-time reports and dashboards Once live, all departments responsible for permitting, planning, plan review, code compliance, inspections, and licensing will use Clariti. About Clariti Claritis government software helps North Americas largest and fastest-growing communities deliver exceptional community development, permitting, and licensing experiences online. Story continues Founded in 2008, Clariti is built as an alternative to code-heavy, non-configurable systems that create technology barriers for governments to meet their communitys evolving needs. Our software is trusted by government agencies that serve over 150 million people across North America. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928814924/en/ Contacts Jeremy Bosch VP, Marketing Clariti jeremy.bosch@claritisoftware.com The University of Houstons Conrad N. Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership, recognized as a worldwide leader in hospitality education, is expanding its global footprint through a new partnership with the elite Ferrieres Hospitality and Luxury Management School in France. Hilton Colleges Ki-Joon Back (seated left), along with Willem van Rossen (standing left) and Jean-Luc Frusetta (standing right) of Ecole Ferrieres, watches as Pierre Frangieh, Ferrieres general manager, signs the MOU. Together with Ferrieres, we are shaping the future of global hospitality, said Dennis Reynolds, dean of Hilton College. This collaboration is the beginning of a remarkable journey of excellence and innovation across the industry. At a ceremony in Paris last week, the two schools signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlining their commitment to a reciprocal exchange program, summer internship opportunities for students and a micro-credentialing program for industry executives in France and Spain. Ki-Joon Back, Ph.D., associate dean for research and graduate studies at Hilton College and the Eric Hilton Distinguished Chair, was instrumental in starting the conversation between the two schools and forging the partnership and represented Hilton College at the signing ceremony. Ecole Ferrieres is in the developing stage with innovative ideas with great support from the industry, Back said. With their ambition and our needs, this collaboration makes perfect sense. Ferrieres joins nearly a dozen other renowned hospitality institutions around the world in partnering with Hilton College on collaboration, innovation and student exchanges. Each semester, Hilton students have the opportunity to study abroad at famed programs including Sejong University in Seoul, South Korea and IULM University in Milan, Italy. This is much more than just an academic partnership, Back said. Its a major step for building a powerful relationship that will allow both schools to prepare the hospitality leaders of tomorrow in exciting ways. Hilton College is the only hospitality program in the world where students work and take classes in an internationally branded, full-service hotel. The college has graduated nearly 10,000 students who work in hospitality leadership positions in more than 50 countries around the world. The college also offers an exclusive, first-of-its-kind Master of Science in Global Hospitality Business in partnership with Ecole hoteliere de Lausanne in Switzerland and Hong Kong Polytechnic University, the top-ranked hospitality programs in Europe and Asia, respectively. Right now, our students can get educational and professional experiences across three continents, Reynolds said. We are truly preparing them to one day lead the hospitality industry on the world stage. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated during his visit to Tallinn that Ukraine must win the war, while the definition of victory depends only on Ukraine, so this cannot be the basis of Germany's national defense strategy. The minister spoke with Estonias broadcaster ERR, Ukrinform reports. "The purpose of the national defense strategy is not to say who should win the (Russo-Ukrainian, - ed.) war. I stated absolutely clearly that Ukraine must win the war. How to define victory depends only on Ukraine, not on us. It has nothing to do with our national defense strategy," Pistorius said. At the security conference held in Tallinn, the head of the Federal Ministry of Defense also confirmed the stability of support to Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. "We will support them (Ukrainians, - ed.) for as long as it takes," Pistorius said. At the conference, he also confirmed plans to transfer a Bundeswehr brigade to Lithuania as soon as the relevant infrastructure is ready. The details should be clarified by the end of the year, in particular, the "road map" for infrastructure preparation should be finalized by the end of November. According to these plans, 4,000 Bundeswehr soldiers, including their families and children, will be permanently stationed in Lithuania. Pistorius emphasized that this is the first time that Bundeswehr troops will be permanently deployed on foreign soil. The Canadians are developing similar plans with their so-called "framework country" (within partnership relations in NATO) Latvia. Accordingly, Great Britain plays a leading role in supporting the Estonian Armed Forces. As reported by Ukrinform, on Tuesday, the Minister of Defense of Germany visited Riga. At a meeting with him, Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics thanked the German Armed Forces "for their presence in the Baltic states and plans to increase their numbers." Romania reacted to the grain crisis differently from Poland in order not to send a wrong signal to the democratic world that Bucharest is allegedly unwilling to help Ukraine. This was announced on Wednesday by Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, who spoke with Digi24, Ukrinform reports. He noted that instead, Romania implemented an export-import licensing system agreed with the Ukrainian government to protect Romanian farmers. According to the prime minister, Ukraine needs to help until the end of the war, and that is why he found, after consultations with President Klaus Iohannis, an option to license export-import of Ukrainian grain. "But we did not go for the ban because it would be a signal that we would send to the democratic world that we do not want to help Ukraine. And this is not true and very wrong. This is not a war between the Russian Federation and Ukraine. This is not a war between Putin and Zelensky. This is a war between a dictator and the democratic world," Ciolacu emphasized. No facts of Iran selling ballistic missiles to the Russians has been recorded as of now while the relevant Ukrainian agencies are in contact with partners monitoring the situation. Thats according to President Volodymyr Zelensky, who spoke at a joint press conference in Kyiv with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. "As of today, the reports from our relevant authorities and partners is that theres been no sale of Iranian missiles to the Russian Federation yet. Our agencies in contact with partners are dealing with the issue," the president said. As reported, the U.S.-based think tank, Institute for the Study of War (ISW) says Iranian and Russian officials may conclude an agreement on the sale of drones and missiles after the relevant restrictions provided for by the UN resolution expire on October 18. On September 28, the German Federal Cartel Office approved the creation of a German-Ukrainian joint venture to produce military equipment. This is said in a press release issued by the Federal Cartel Office, Ukrinform reports. "Today, the Federal Cartel Office has approved the creation of a joint venture between Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH, Unterlu and SE Ukrainian Defense Industry in Ukraine," the press release says. "Given the geopolitical situation, the defense industry is undergoing changes. The joint venture between Rheinmetall and the Ukrainian enterprise ... is designed to build and maintain military equipment in Ukraine. This project will not lead to any competitive overlaps in Germany. We quickly gave our approval," said Andreas Mundt, President of the Federal Cartel Office. The joint venture is to be based in Kyiv and engage in service and maintenance as well as the assembly, production and development of military vehicles. It will initially operate exclusively in Ukraine. Read also: Rheinmetall transfers mobile field hospital to Ukraine The approval process lasted for one month. Rheinmetall is a manufacturer of various (armored) military equipment (including the Leopard main battle tank, the Puma infantry fighting vehicle and the Fuchs armored vehicle). Ukrainian Defense Industry is a state-owned company in the defense sector with about 67,000 employees and is subordinate to the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine. The state-owned enterprise actively cooperates with various enterprises of the defense industry (weapons and military equipment production). As reported, Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger announced plans to open an armored vehicle plant in Ukraine in July this year. Russian politicians reacted immediately, saying the plant would be a target for attacks. Photo: dpa Poland has no intention of lifting the ban on exported Ukrainian agricultural products, even if Ukraine withdraws its complaint from the World Trade Organization (WTO). This was stated on ZET Radio by Polish government spokesman Piotr Muller, who responding to a statement by Deputy Economy Minister Taras Kachka of Ukraine that Ukraine will pull its complaint from the WTO if Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary guarantee non-application of unilateral steps to limit the import of Ukrainian agricultural products to these countries markets, reports Ukrinform. "The embargo will be remain in place until we come to the conclusion that it (Ukrainian grain - ed.) will have no negative impact on our agricultural market, which is unlikely to happen in the near future," Muller said. He noted that Poland is ready to negotiate with Ukraine, but "at the moment, the situation is such that the embargo remains." At the same time, he emphasized that Ukraine withdrawing its claim from the WTO "would be a good gesture showing that Ukraine seeks partnership negotiations, not procedural talks." When asked whether Poland will not accept the offer of the Ukrainian side, Muller said that it is "unacceptable" for Warsaw. "Actually, Ukraine wants these goods to be imported on the basis of licenses, but without defining clear limits. This could destabilize our market again," stated the spokesperson of the government of the Republic of Poland. As reported earlier, Polish Minister of Agriculture Robert Telus called on his Ukrainian colleague Mykola Solskyi to withdraw the complaint from the World Trade Organization regarding the export of Ukrainian grain, which he said would create a favorable climate for further negotiations on resolving the crisis. Telus noted that Warsaw will consider Kyiv's proposal to license Ukrainian agricultural products that will enter the Polish market, where Warsaw will have the final say. He noted that this proposal is "good", adding that it is necessary to develop appropriate regulations in Poland. As reported, the so-called grain crisis is simmering in relations between Ukraine and Poland. Since September 16, Poland unilaterally, contrary to the position of the European Commission, indefinitely blocked the import of Ukrainian grain (wheat, corn, sunflower, and rapeseed) to the domestic market, while maintaining the transit of these crops through the country's territory. In response, Ukraine filed a complaint with the WTO against Poland, as well as Hungary, which had acted in a similar manner. Photo: depositphotos Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Ruslan Stefanchuk met in Ireland with Speaker of the Knesset of the State of Israel Amir Ohana. The parties discussed the global consequences of Russian aggression. "A very frank and substantive conversation. First of all, we talked about the crimes that the Russian Federation commits on Ukrainian soil every day, the global consequences of Russian aggression and the value of supporting Ukraine. I noted that today the struggle for what the world would be like in the next 100 years continued," Stefanchuk posted on Facebook. According to him, "a terrible duel between dictatorship and democracy" is ongoing. "It is very important that democracy wins. And this will prove that democracy has power," Stefanchuk emphasized. The interlocutors also paid attention to the Peace Formula of President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky. Stefanchuk called on Israels parliament to join the implementation of this initiative. "Finally, I thanked the Israeli side for providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine and the intention to continue doing so in the future," Stefanchuk stressed. As reported, Stefanchuk is on a working visit to Ireland where, in particular, he is participating in the European Conference of Presidents of Parliament. Photo: Facebook, Ruslan Stefanchuk MISSOULA The University of Montana once again topped a national list ranking 1,487 four-year colleges and universities on their overall contribution to the public good. For the second year in a row, Washington Monthly, a magazine of U.S. politics and government based in Washington, D.C., placed UM at the top of their public service ranking. (On the right-hand column, hover and click the arrow next to Service rank for rankings). In the service category, UM ranked above many of the nations prestigious private and public institutions, including the University of Notre Dame, George Washington University, Duke University, the University of Chicago and many more. The periodicals 2023 College Rankings List evaluate four-year institutions across three categories: social mobility, research and promoting public service. Since 2005, Washington Monthly has developed a methodology and evaluation of American university performance that provides an alternative to Forbes and U.S. World News and Report. UM President Seth Bodnar said the Washington Monthly ranking again formally identifies UMs cornerstone culture. Traditional rankings often fail to dive into the big idea of what a college or university is supposed to do, Bodnar said, which is to provide and deliver on inclusive prosperity, social mobility and producing leaders who positively impact our collective communities. I join UM students, our staff and faculty in celebrating this humbling accolade, because it means were doing something right. Bodnar added that the Washington Monthly ranking is uniquely important, because it evaluates national data on colleges performance across a range of measures, including affordability, access, social mobility and volunteerism. He said many rankings only promote an idea of prestige, instead of recognizing institutions that make significant contributions through research, social mobility and service. The Washington Monthly ranking stands alone in that it reflects an evaluation of American higher education that should be grounded in an ethos, Bodnar said. At UM, we are deeply tied to our place, community and one another, and those are the qualities our students take with them into their careers and lives. The Washington Monthly ranking determined the service score by measuring each colleges performance across a range of measures, including AmeriCorps and Peace Corps, military service and federal work-study grant funding spent on community service projects. The ranking methodology also included data related to student voter registration; voter activity; the number of degrees awarded in health, education and social work; and a colleges rate of producing leaders in socially valuable fields. Grizzlies serve the wider public in innumerable ways many of which are embedded within academic programs that include service learning, volunteer hours or a community project. Additionally, UM students are actively involved in UMs Peace Corps Prep Program, in UMs Military and Veterans Services and within UMs dedicated programs in global service and volunteerism like the W.A. Franke Global Leadership Initiative. Since its earliest days, UM has reflected a deep commitment to public service and has developed academic, career and co-curricular programs that infuse a UM education with volunteer and civic opportunities. UM students work and study diverse areas that mirror Montanas greatest public needs. These include youth-in-crisis, public education, food insecurity, addiction studies, mental health counseling, natural resource nonprofit work, racial equity and legal services. For many students, their first interaction as a Grizzly includes an experience within the community. UMs New Student Orientation includes the Big Sky Experience, where students work alongside community partners, including the Missoula Food Bank and Community Center, Free Cycles Missoula, and Backcountry Hunters and Anglers. The point of the Big Sky Experience is to showcase to new students that a UM education is woven into the community, said Devin Carpenter, UM director of New Student Success. The takeaway for students is an awakening and understanding of what we do here and why it matters. ### Contact: Dave Kuntz, UM strategic communications director, 406-243-5659, dave.kuntz@umontana.edu. MISSOULA The University of Montanas enrollment ascent continues, driven by a 3.7% increase in total student headcount the largest annual growth rate in 14 years. In total, 10,327 students are enrolled at UM this fall, which is 372 students higher than 2022. With the largest single year of percentage gain in enrollment since 2009, the University of Montana is firmly ingrained in a period of growth, said UM President Seth Bodnar. By combining a record student retention rate with three consecutive years of growing incoming classes, our Universitys growth trajectory is on a clear and upward path. This growth in enrollment is powered by 1,373 new first-year students, which is the largest incoming class at UM in seven years. Among the first-year students on campus, 799 are Montana residents, representing a 12.5% increase of Montana first-year students compared to last fall. Since fall 2021, UMs Montana new, first-year, resident student enrollment has increased by over 20%. We have invested significant time and labor to prioritize serving Montana students, said Mary Kreta, UM vice president for enrollment management and strategic initiatives. As a result, UM has enrolled hundreds of additional Montana-resident students over the past two years, and we have no plans to take our foot off the gas pedal. The growth in first-year Montana-resident students underscores the success of UMs Grizzly Promise initiative. Launched in December 2022, Grizzly Promise provides resident Montana students whose families earn less than $50,000 annually the opportunity to attend UM tuition free. Overall, 66.5% of UM students are Montana residents. UMs student retention rate rose 2% to 76% this fall, which is an all-time high. This figure measures the rate that students persist between their first and second year at UM. Since taking over as president in 2018, Bodnar has helped raise the student retention rate by 8%. The growth at UM isnt just on the main campus. Missoula College, UMs two-year college, enrolled 1,436 total students this fall. This is an 18.2% increase over last year including 393 Missoula-area high school dually enrolled students a 104.7% jump over 2022. The growth in recent years at UM has also bolstered the Universitys finances. This fall, tuition revenue for the University is $43.6 million, which is 11.7% higher than the same period in 2022. This strong census report reflects UMs growing fiscal strength, said Paul Lasiter, UM vice president for operations and finance. These additional resources will allow us to continue making the kinds of investments needed to ensure our students succeed. Additionally, UMs AccelerateMT enrolled 827 students in non-degree, short-term workforce development programs over the past year. These courses are taught in conjunction with local businesses to meet growing labor demands. UM also has made strong progress in recent years to tear down barriers to education for numerous student populations. In fall 2023, Native American student enrollment is up 5.2%, with 750 Native students enrolled. Since 2018, the number of Native Americans enrolled at UM has increased by 30%. The 2,066 first-generation students enrolled at UM represent a 5.6% increase over 2022. Currently, 23.2% of UM students are the first in their family to attend college and the number of veteran students on campus is up to 335, which is a 20% increase over the previous year. UMs mission is to achieve inclusive prosperity, Bodnar said. Our ability to adapt and innovate to accomplish this mission is illustrated by the numerous ways we are meeting the needs of our state. With Montanas largest graduate school, dual-enrollment population and workforce development programs, we are ensuring every Montanan has a pathway to access the education and training needed to secure a higher-paying job. Other data points found in the fall 2023 enrollment census include: 1,833 graduate students, making UM the largest graduate and professional student population in the state. 261 law school students, a 4.4% increase over 2022. 2,123 students on federal PELL grants, an 8.7% increase over 2022. a 9.2% increase in number of students served with disabilities. UMs fall 2023 census report is available online. ### Jeff Bezos is the founder and executive chairman of Amazon, which is in the FTC's crosshairs. (Associated Press) Few Amazon customers or sellers could be surprised by most of the allegations in the massive lawsuit filed against the company Tuesday by the Federal Trade Commission and 17 states. The lawsuit accuses Amazon of a host of anti-competitive practices, all aimed at exploiting its enormous footprint in the online retail market. These include price manipulation and punitive and coercive behavior against sellers with the temerity to use competing retail platforms or to set their own prices or engage in non-Amazon methods to serve their own customers. The harms here...have basically created a really distorted and competitive landscape....That may require significant relief. FTC Chair Lina Khan, contemplating an Amazon breakup Then there's the degradation of the Amazon shopping experience by the infusion of "sponsored" that is, favored products that may be inferior or more expensive than those a buyer may be seeking. The company's public response to the lawsuit is that it would result in "fewer products to choose from, higher prices, slower deliveries for consumers, and reduced options for small businesses," its general counsel, David Zapolsky, said in a prepared statement, adding that the agency is "wrong on the facts and the law." But most of the FTC's allegations are familiar enough. Consumers know how hard it is to determine whether Amazon's prices are the lowest available. They know that when they're searching for an item on Amazon.com, the varieties pushed at them most assiduously are those from Amazon's commercial partners or marketed by Amazon itself. Read more: Amazon sued by FTC and 17 states over allegations it inflates online prices and overcharges sellers They feel the pressure to sign up for Amazon's Prime service, now $139 a year, necessary to receive one- or two-day, or even overnight, delivery, in addition to the company's video and music streaming services. Story continues Sellers who have marketed their merchandise on Amazon are certainly aware of the cost a share of as much as 50% taken by the company. They know the consequences of flouting its rules or trying to discount its products from Amazon's price, which include banishment from the website's one-click "buy box" or the burying of discounting sellers "so far down in Amazon's search results that they become effectively invisible," to quote the lawsuit. The question is what to do about it. Read more: Column: Barnes & Noble saved itself by putting books first. Imagine that That's the question implicit in every one of the FTC complaint's 174 pages. It's the same question raised anytime the government tries to rein in a big, powerful corporation, but it's especially important in this case, because there are so very few corporations that dominate their markets so powerfully. The FTC points to Amazon's ability to leverage its various businesses, which include its "fulfillment" services the warehousing, packing and shipping of sellers' merchandise and Prime eligibility, which gives sellers' products preferential placement on the website and by eliminating shipping charges lowers the cost of their products for buyers. That suggests that one answer would be to break up Amazon, say by forcing it to divest its fulfillment operation. FTC Chair Lina Khan dodged that issue in her statements about the lawsuit, possibly because she knows that the remedy to Amazon's misdeeds, assuming it's found guilty, would be in the hands of a federal judge. At this stage, the focus is more on liability, she told reporters in a briefing session Tuesday. On Wednesday, during an appearance at a Washington, D.C., conference sponsored by Politico, she noted that in the lawsuit, "we don't specify any one type of remedy." She also observed, however, that "the harms here are really mutually reinforcing, and have basically created a really distorted and competitive landscape ... that may require significant relief." The lawsuit isn't entirely silent on possible remedies, mentioning, among other options, "structural relief." That could only mean a breakup. Some disclosures are proper here. I, like many other customers, am a willing prisoner of the Amazon ecosystem, or perhaps more accurately, an addict. The books I read for pleasure are almost invariably ebooks, which means they're Amazon ebooks; I blindly buy the latest version of the company's Kindle e-reader (up to and including its new large-format Kindle Scribe). If I'm interested in a book that doesn't come in a Kindle version, I'll wait until it does. I can't remember the last time I bought an ebook not on Amazon. All but two of the books I've written come in Kindle versions, for which I'm thankful. Read more: Column: Here's why you can't 'own' your ebooks Outside of food and gasoline, I probably do 70% to 80% of my shopping online, and the vast majority of purchases are on Amazon. I'll make a purchase on Amazon even if the product is available at a store less than a mile away, and especially if it will be delivered the next day or even (increasingly) overnight. That doesn't mean that I'm an uncritical fan. I've had to train myself to look past the "sponsored" products Amazon thrusts at me when I'm searching for an item. I've avoided its Echo/Alexa devices, because I know they exist to push favored products my way, and who wants a device in the home with the capability of listening in to private conversations? I'm not happy that I can't own an ebook purchased on Amazon, but only purchase a license giving me the right to read it (but not give it away, like a physical book). Nor that this arrangement gives Amazon rights over my ebook library that I may not even know about, as when it stealthily deleted from customers' Kindles versions of George Orwell's "Animal Farm" and "1984" after copyright issues arose with those versions. An Amazon ebook generally can be read only on an Amazon Kindle or an Amazon app another pair of mutually reinforcing near-monopolies. Quite obviously, Amazon could never get away with such restrictive rules if it had genuine competition in the ebook or e-reader markets. Amazon and its mouthpieces in Congress have made much of the fact that Khan has had Amazon's number for years. Exhibit A is her 2017 article in the Yale Law Review titled "Amazon's Antitrust Paradox." Amazon and Meta (then Facebook) tried to use it to force Khan to recuse herself from FTC proceedings against them. Wisely and properly, she turned them down. The article delved deeply into Amazon's anti-competitive strategies, which consisted chiefly of undercutting competitors' prices and consequently taking losses; the company's expectation that this would drive rivals out of its markets and leave the field clear for it to turn to extracting profits from consumers by exploiting its near-monopoly bore fruit in the long term. Khan homed in on, among other tools, Amazon's fulfillment services. But she noticed how Amazon leveraged its Prime membership by bundling "other deals and perks" into it, turning Prime into its "biggest driver of growth." Read more: Column: Amazon's acquisition of a medical firm may not disrupt healthcare, but could disrupt your life The discussions in the FTC lawsuit of Prime and fulfillment as anti-competitive tools replicate Khan's 2017 analysis with astonishing fidelity, showing that Khan understood Amazon's business strategy very well indeed. The remedies Khan offered in 2017 wouldn't be adequate to rein in the Amazon of today. She recommended applying especially close scrutiny to merger deals reached by companies that already dominated their markets but that might not work with a company such as Amazon, which has the ability to expand its market dominance without having to acquire other companies. What most people overlook is that the 2017 article was a critique not so much of Amazon, but of the failure of antitrust regulators to recognize that the new online retail market was fundamentally different from bricks-and-mortar retailing, and that Amazon had been able to exploit that failure. The best example, Khan pointed out, involved the efforts by major book publishers to counteract Amazon's policy, rolled out in 2007, of pricing bestseller ebooks at $9.99, undercutting the publishers' hardcover and ebook prices. Within two years, Amazon's share of the ebook market was 90%. The publishers struck a deal with Apple allowing them to set their own ebook prices for sale on Apple's iBooks app. Amazingly, the Justice Department sued Apple and the publishers for colluding to fix prices. As Khan noted, the DOJ found "persuasive evidence lacking" that Amazon had engaged in predatory pricing. Apple eventually settled the lawsuit for $450 million, the three largest publishers Hachette Book Group, Simon & Schuster, and HarperCollins settled for a combined $69 million, and the last two, Macmillan and Penguin, settled by agreeing not to set ebook prices. Apple never became a significant player in the ebook market. As Khan perceived, old-school antitrust regulators failed to understand how the retail market had evolved and Amazon was poised to take advantage: "How steep discounting on a platform ... creates a higher risk that the firm will generate monopoly power" than discounting in physical stores, and how Amazon's business had become so big and varied that it could undercut rivals' prices, take a temporary loss, and recoup its red ink in multiple ways. The lawsuit that her FTC filed against Amazon sends a clear signal: She doesn't intend to make the same mistake. Get the latest from Michael Hiltzik Commentary on economics and more from a Pulitzer Prize winner. Sign me up. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Community Management Corporation Partners With More Than 30 Communities For National Night Out Firefighters from the Woodlawn Fire Department joined Associa Community Management Corporation to help Olde Mill Condominiums stage their first-ever National Night Out community safety event. CHANTILLY, Va., Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Virginia branch of Associa Community Management Corporation (CMC), a leading provider of community management services throughout the greater Virginia, Maryland, and D.C. areas, recently partnered with more than 30 community partners to host a series of community-wide safety events in conjunction with the 2023 National Night Out (NNO). CMC worked with association board members to organize the events, which are held to promote neighborhood solidarity, resident safety, and police-community partnerships. Three of the branchs communities experienced substantial turnout. More than 100 residents and visitors in Woodlawn, Virginias Olde Mill Condominiums attended their first-ever NNO event. It featured free BBQ, drinks, a bounce house, DJ, and community safety presentations. The Woodlawn Fire Department helped sponsor the event and dispatched two fire trucks that kids and adults of all ages had a blast exploring. Officers from the Woodlawn Police Department also attended and enjoyed dinner with the residents. The community is already planning to make next years NNO event even bigger and better. At Belmont Bay Homeowners Association in Woodbridge, Virginia approximately 85 residents and guests staged their 2023 NNO community event. The highlight of the event was a motorcade of fire and police vehicles from Prince William County. First responders then chatted with residents to answer questions and provide community safety tips. Attendees were treated to a food truck, drinks, live music, and games. The evening concluded with a spectacular fireworks display. The Snowden Bridge Homeowners Association welcomed residents and homeowners to their annual community safety event. Attendees were treated to music, games, and delicious food and treats from two food trucks. In addition to a number of vendors, first responders from state and local EMS, fire and law enforcement departments attended to provide information and answer questions related to community safety and awareness. Story continues "National Night Out 2023 was a phenomenal experience for more than 30 communities throughout Prince George County and Southern Maryland, said Associa Select Community Services Vice President Darrin Cassidy, CMCA, AMS, PCAM. It was a wonderful opportunity for friends, family, and neighbors to spend a pleasant evening outside interacting with one another and the first responders who serve the communities in which they live and work. As the community management industrys sole national sponsor of NNO, Associa works closely with its respective community partners through Associa Supports Kids (ASK), a community outreach program, to educate parents and children on the importance of neighborhood safety. Tens of thousands of ASK giveaway items are provided annually to NNO event attendees who attend both Associa-managed and non-Associa managed community safety events. NNO traditionally takes place on the first Tuesday in August throughout all 50 U.S. states, territories, and on military bases worldwide. Texas and other selected regions celebrate the first Tuesday in October for heat-related reasons. Associa sponsored a total of 104 events in August and looks forward to working with many more communities on Tuesday, October 3, as part of Texas NNO. The goal of all the programs is to promote neighborhood camaraderie and inclusiveness and to help make communities safer, more caring places to live. About Associa With more than 275 branch offices across North America, Associa is building the future of community for more than 6.5 million residents worldwide. Our 14,000+ team members lead the industry with unrivaled education, expertise, and trailblazing innovation. For more than 44 years, Associa has brought positive impact and meaningful value to communities. To learn more, visit www.associaonline.com. Stay Connected Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/associa Subscribe to the Blog: https://hub.associaonline.com/ Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/associa Join us on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/associa Attachment CONTACT: Tom Womack Associa 214.272.4107 tom.womack@associaonline.com Canadian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Leslie Scanlon along with Commercial Counselor Michael Lazaruk and Trade Commissioner Athar Abbashere on Thursday paid a visit to Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) KARACHI, (UrduPoint/Pakistan Point Mews-Sept 28th, 2023) :Canadian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Leslie Scanlon along with Commercial Counselor Michael Lazaruk and Trade Commissioner Athar Abbashere on Thursday paid a visit to pakistan stock exchange (PSX). The Managing Director and CEO psx Farrukh H. Khan, along with PSX board member, Nadeem Naqvi and the PSX management team held a meeting with visiting Canadian diplomats and discussed matters of mutual interest pertaining to the economy as a whole and the capital markets in particular. The trade and economic team from the High Commission of Canada was also present in the meeting which enabled a discussion on further development of trade between Canada and Pakistan. The distinguished guests were given a tour of the Exchange, in particular the Trading Hall of the Stock Exchange. They also ceremoniously struck the gong to mark their visit to Pakistan Stock Exchange. , (@Abdulla99267510) The Challenge, introduced by UNICEF, UNDP, and UNFPA in collaboration with the implementing partner School of Leadership Foundation, embodies a dynamic public-private-youth partnership framework. ISLAMABAD: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-Sept 28th, 2023) A pioneering initiative, the Generation Unlimited Policy Research Challenge (PRC, aimed at empowering and inspiring young activists throughout Pakistan has been officially launched today. Operating under the GenU framework, this visionary project opens doors for individuals aged 12 to 28 to actively engage in research, champion innovative solutions, and play an instrumental role in shaping a more equitable and promising future for society, with a special focus on addressing the challenges of climate change and adaptation. The Challenge, introduced by UNICEF, UNDP, and UNFPA in collaboration with the implementing partner school of Leadership Foundation, embodies a dynamic public-private-youth partnership framework. It is designed to serve as a platform for innovative thinking and research, enabling participants to understand and propose research areas that could help Pakistan better adapt to climate change. In this exciting challenge, participants are categorized into three age groups: 12-14 years, 15-18 years, and 19-28 years. The first two age categories will be part of Challenge 1 and are expected to focus their research on climate adaptations in areas such as water, health (with a specific focus on mental health), sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), education, and livelihoods. For Challenge 1, a residential boot camp will be conducted in Karachi to equip participants from Sindh and Balochistan with the knowledge and skills needed to conduct in-depth research on climate-related issues. Participants in the third age category will be part of Challenge 2, addressing climate issues related to water, health (with emphasis on mental health and SRHR), education, livelihoods, agriculture, resilient communities (with a special focus on marginalized communities), and infrastructure. To kickstart their journey, Challenge 2 participants will engage in a comprehensive four-day residential boot camp in Islamabad, representing all provinces of Pakistan. The boot camp will focus on refining their research and advocacy abilities. The winners of Challenge 1 and 2 will have a chance to win up to PKR 150,000 whereas the winners of Challenge 3 can win up to PKR 500,000. They will receive mentorship from climate experts during the incubation period and the best proposals among them will be presented at a prestigious roundtable conference with policy makers and climate stakeholders. This initiative empowers youth to drive impactful change, contributing to Pakistan's efforts to combat climate change and adaptation. Moreover, the deadline for this challenge is set for 11th October 2023, providing young activists with ample time to engage in meaningful research and advocacy efforts. By participating in this initiative, young activists will have the opportunity to drive positive change, influence policies, and contribute to a brighter future for all. Together, we can forge innovative pathways to ensure comprehensive development for every young individual, regardless of gender, and make learning and work opportunities accessible by 2030. To apply, please visit the following links: Application for Adolescents: Application Link for Adolescents Application for Youth: Application Link for Youth Vietnam jailed a leading climate activist for three years for tax evasion Thursday, a sentence her family condemned as "unfair", as the communist state ramps up a crackdown on environmentalists Hanoi, (UrduPoint/Pakistan Point Mews-Sept 28th, 2023) :Vietnam jailed a leading climate activist for three years for tax evasion Thursday, a sentence her family condemned as "unfair", as the communist state ramps up a crackdown on environmentalists. Hoang Thi Minh Hong was sentenced by a court in Ho Chi Minh City for dodging $275,000 in taxes related to her environmental campaign group CHANGE. The 50-year-old is at least the fifth green campaigner to be jailed on tax evasion charges in the last two years -- even as Vietnam's authoritarian government seeks to amplify its attempts to cut emissions. Her lawyer Nguyen Van Tu told AFP that in addition to the prison sentence, the court also imposed a 100 million dong ($4,000) fine. Hong's husband Hoang Vinh Nam told AFP he was "disappointed" at the verdict. "The sentence given to Hong today was too heavy," he said. "I think it was unfair to Hong. The defence lawyer did his best but his arguments were not considered properly." State media quoted the indictment as saying the charges related to revenue generated by CHANGE from 2012 to 2022. Hong admitted the charges and along with her family paid the state 3.5 billion dong ($145,000) in return for leniency, state media said. Hong founded CHANGE to mobilise Vietnamese, particularly young people, to take action on pressing environmental issues, including climate change, the illegal wildlife trade and pollution. But she abruptly shut down the group last year after four environmental and human rights activists were jailed for tax evasion. Flu shots for University of Wyoming students will be available in the Wyoming Union East Ballroom from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5. There is no charge if participants have student medical insurance through UW. If an individual does not have student insurance, UW Student Health Service will bill a students account $29. Students can obtain a copy of a statement at the time of service to submit to their own insurance company for reimbursement. Free cookies and juice will be provided at the flu clinic. The flu vaccine is updated each season to protect against the most common influenza viruses, and the best protection against influenza is to obtain a flu vaccine each year, according to Student Health Service. For more information, call UW Student Health Service at 766-2130, email studenthealth@uwyo.edu or visit the website at www.uwyo.edu/shser/. Alcazar Energy, a leading renewable energy investor in growth markets, announces its acquisition of rights to a 118 MW wind farm project in Montenegro - a milestone in its strategy to build the largest renewable energy platform in the Western Balkans. Alcazar Energy is entering into a partnership with Simes Inzenjering and Sistem MNE who were the original greenfield developers of the project. This project will be built at a cost of c. $200 million, becoming one of the largest wind farms in the Western Balkans and doubling Montenegros installed wind capacity. Financial close is expected in Q1 2025, with construction commencing in early 2025. The Bijela project forms part of the governments 2040 national development strategy - which considers it a major economic investment for Montenegro and a significant contribution towards reducing the countrys greenhouse gas emissions. The project is estimated to create over 800 construction jobs and once in operation, produce enough clean energy to power over 20,700 households annually, while avoiding the release of over 260,000 tons of CO2e per year. Several prominent development institutions and commercial banks have indicated their interest in partnering with Alcazar Energy to finance the project. The project has also captured the attention of other key stakeholders such as leading wind turbine manufacturers, as well as international and local construction companies. The acquisition of the Bijela project represents the first milestone of Alcazar Energys strategy to create the regions largest renewable energy platform, with an estimated total project investment in the region of $600m. This project is meaningful for Europe more widely, as it will provide clean and affordable electricity - at a time when the continent is seeking to reduce its dependence on gas. Alcazar Energy is in discussions with several European off-takers interested in purchasing the projects clean electricity. Dritan Abazovic, Prime Minister of Montenegro, stated: "We are looking forward to the realisation of such a project in our country, especially given that it concerns the neglected northern part. Montenegro is in its Constitution declared as an ecological country, making it a unique entity. We are committed to green energy because it represents the future of our sustainable development. I invite foreign investors to continue investing in Montenegro, and the government will be their open and serious partner without any hindrances." Daniel Calderon, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Alcazar Energy, said: We are thrilled to complete the acquisition of rights for this significant wind farm project. For Montenegro and the Western Balkans region, it will bring much-needed clean and also affordable electricity - and create long-term local jobs. We look forward to working closely with the government and local stakeholders further - as we develop Montenegros largest wind farm - doubling the countrys installed wind capacity. Alcazar Energy builds sustainable infrastructure where it is needed most - in growth markets - while generating infrastructure returns to investors. We have an outstanding track record in developing and building renewable energy projects, expertise in emerging and growth markets and a commitment to ESG best practices. Slaven Milic, Founder of Simes Inzenjering, commented: We are excited to announce our new partnership with Alcazar Energy to complete the development of Bijela and bring it to construction and operation. This collaboration combines the vision and experience of Simes Inzenjering and Sistem MNE in developing various complex projects in Montenegro with Alcazar Energys expertise in catalysing early vintage renewable energy projects in emerging countries, bringing foreign direct investment, project finance as well as industrial and technical prowess. We warmly welcome Alcazar Energy to the region. Their ability to bring in international lenders for this $200 million investment will help us deliver on the immense promise of this project, notably for the budding green energy sector in Montenegro. We look forward to working together on its construction from 2025. Furthermore, we would like to extend our gratitude to our financial and legal advisors, KPMG and Karanovic&Partners, whose support has been instrumental in making this transaction a reality.--OGN/ TradeArabia News Service Long-established in the Consumer Packaged Goods industry, Conagra Brands Inc (NYSE:CAG) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. However, it has recently witnessed a daily loss of 0.58%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of -16.01%. Fresh insights from the GF Score 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 Conagra Brands Inc. Conagra Brands Inc (CAG): 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 Conagra Brands Inc the GF Score of 69 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential. Company Snapshot: Conagra Brands Inc Conagra Brands Inc, with a market cap of $13.08 billion, is a packaged food company that operates predominantly in the United States, accounting for over 90% of its revenue and profits. It has a significant presence in the freezer aisle, with brands such as Marie Callender's, Healthy Choice, Banquet, and Birds Eye. Other popular brands include Duncan Hines, Hunt's, Slim Jim, Vlasic, Orville Redenbacher's, Reddi-wip, Wish-Bone, and Chef Boyardee. While the majority of revenue is sold into the U.S. retail channel, 9% of fiscal 2022 sales came from the food-service channel, down from 11% in fiscal 2019 due to the pandemic. The company reported sales of $12.28 billion and an operating margin of 8.76%. Story continues Conagra Brands Inc (CAG): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential Financial Strength Analysis Conagra Brands Inc's financial strength indicators present some concerning insights about the company's balance sheet health. The company has an interest coverage ratio of 2.6, which positions it worse than 76.88% of 1367 companies in the Consumer Packaged Goods 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 1.69, 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 0.01 indicates a struggle in handling existing debt levels. Furthermore, the company's debt-to-Ebitda ratio is 6.4, which is above Joel Tillinghast's warning level of 4 and is worse than 81.07% of 1368 companies in the Consumer Packaged Goods 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. Conclusion Given the company's financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GF Score highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential underperformance. While Conagra Brands Inc has a rich history and a strong presence in the Consumer Packaged Goods 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. When close to half the companies in the Metals and Mining industry in Singapore have price-to-sales ratios (or "P/S") below 1.8x, you may consider Southern Alliance Mining Ltd. (Catalist:QNS) as a stock to avoid entirely with its 9.3x P/S ratio. However, the P/S might be quite high for a reason and it requires further investigation to determine if it's justified. View our latest analysis for Southern Alliance Mining What Does Southern Alliance Mining's Recent Performance Look Like? For example, consider that Southern Alliance Mining's financial performance has been poor lately as its revenue has been in decline. One possibility is that the P/S is high because investors think the company will still do enough to outperform the broader industry in the near future. If not, then existing shareholders may be quite nervous about the viability of the share price. We don't have analyst forecasts, but you can see how recent trends are setting up the company for the future by checking out our free report on Southern Alliance Mining's earnings, revenue and cash flow. What Are Revenue Growth Metrics Telling Us About The High P/S? The only time you'd be truly comfortable seeing a P/S as steep as Southern Alliance Mining's is when the company's growth is on track to outshine the industry decidedly. In reviewing the last year of financials, we were disheartened to see the company's revenues fell to the tune of 31%. As a result, revenue from three years ago have also fallen 51% overall. So unfortunately, we have to acknowledge that the company has not done a great job of growing revenue over that time. In contrast to the company, the rest of the industry is expected to grow by 8.9% over the next year, which really puts the company's recent medium-term revenue decline into perspective. In light of this, it's alarming that Southern Alliance Mining's P/S sits above the majority of other companies. Apparently many investors in the company are way more bullish than recent times would indicate and aren't willing to let go of their stock at any price. There's a very good chance existing shareholders are setting themselves up for future disappointment if the P/S falls to levels more in line with the recent negative growth rates. Story continues What We Can Learn From Southern Alliance Mining's P/S? It's argued the price-to-sales ratio is an inferior measure of value within certain industries, but it can be a powerful business sentiment indicator. We've established that Southern Alliance Mining currently trades on a much higher than expected P/S since its recent revenues have been in decline over the medium-term. When we see revenue heading backwards and underperforming the industry forecasts, we feel the possibility of the share price declining is very real, bringing the P/S back into the realm of reasonability. Should recent medium-term revenue trends persist, it would pose a significant risk to existing shareholders' investments and prospective investors will have a hard time accepting the current value of the stock. Having said that, be aware Southern Alliance Mining is showing 1 warning sign in our investment analysis, you should know about. If these risks are making you reconsider your opinion on Southern Alliance Mining, explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there. 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. Members of Luang Namtha provinces emergency rescue team on Wednesday hold a first aid course at the provinces Youth Union offices, to explain what treatment can be provided before people are taken to hospital. The course was attended by members of the Lao Volunteer Foundation and the provincial hospital. --Photo Pasaxon Officials from Khammuan provinces Education and Sports Department on Tuesday meet to discuss the primary school lunch project, in collaboration with Worlds Link. The meeting was attended by the Deputy Governor of Khammuan province, Mr Keo-oudone Boutsingkhone, and representatives of Worlds Link. The project will take place in Thakhaek and Nongbok districts from now until August 2028 at a cost of US$80,000, funded by the Urakami Foundation. --Photo Vientiane Mai 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. Although overall U.S. mortgage delinquencies crept up from June to July, they are still near an all-time low of 2.7%. The U.S. foreclosure rate held steady in July for the 17 th consecutive month, at 0.3%. The U.S. serious delinquency rate (90 days or more late) was at a 23-year low in July. Idaho was the only state to see a small annual uptick in overall mortgage delinquency rates (0.1 percentage points) in July. The states with the largest year-over-year delinquency declines were Alaska (0.9 percentage points); and New York, Oklahoma and West Virginia (all 0.7 percentage points). IRVINE, Calif., September 28, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CoreLogic, a leading global property information, analytics and data-enabled solutions provider, today released its monthly Loan Performance Insights Report for July 2023. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928383949/en/ Figure 1: National Overview of Loan Performance (Graphic: Business Wire) For the month of July, 2.7% of all mortgages in the U.S. were in some stage of delinquency (30 days or more past due, including those in foreclosure), representing a 0.3 percentage point decrease compared with 3% in July 2022 and a 0.1% increase from June 2023. To gain a complete view of the mortgage market and loan performance health, CoreLogic examines all stages of delinquency. In July 2023, the U.S. delinquency and transition rates and their year-over-year changes, were as follows: Early-Stage Delinquencies (30 to 59 days past due): 1.3%, unchanged from July 2022. Adverse Delinquency (60 to 89 days past due): 0.4%, unchanged from July 2022. Serious Delinquency (90 days or more past due, including loans in foreclosure): 1%, down from 1.3% in July 2022 and a high of 4.3% in August 2020. Foreclosure Inventory Rate (the share of mortgages in some stage of the foreclosure process): 0.3%, unchanged from July 2022. Transition Rate (the share of mortgages that transitioned from current to 30 days past due): 0.7%, unchanged from July 2022. Story continues U.S. mortgage performance held strong in July, with both overall delinquency and foreclosure rates still hovering near record lows. Only Idaho saw overall delinquencies rise year over year, but rates in that state remain very low. Meanwhile 16 metro areas posted slight annual delinquency upticks, a drop from the previous month, when 31 metros posted increases. With hurricane season in full swing in the late summer and early fall, some areas of the U.S. could see typical seasonal delinquencies rise later this year and into 2024. "Overall U.S. mortgage delinquencies remained near a record low in July, with the share of homes entering that status or progressing to later stages either unchanged or lower," said Molly Boesel, principal economist for CoreLogic. "Since most borrowers have substantial amounts of home equity, those who have locked in low mortgage rates that do enter later stages of delinquency will most likely not experience foreclosures." "And while home equity gains have slowed from their former rapid pace," Boesel continued, "CoreLogic projects that home price growth will pick up over the next year. Borrowers should continue to build equity over the coming months, even if at a more moderate rate." State and Metro Takeaways: Of U.S. states, only Idaho posted a small annual increase (up by 0.1 percentage points) in overall mortgage delinquency rates in July. Overall delinquency rates were unchanged year over year in Arizona and Utah. The remaining states annual delinquency rates declined between 0.9 and 0.1 percentage points. In July, 16 U.S. metro areas posted an increase in overall year-over-year delinquency rates. The metros with the largest increases were Elkhart-Goshen, Indiana and Punta Gorda, Florida (both up by 0.5 percentage points) and Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida (up by 0.3 percentage points). In July, two U.S. metro areas posted an increase in serious delinquency rates (defined as 90 days or more late on a mortgage payment), while changes in other metros ranged from -1.5 percentage points to 0.0 percentage points. The metros that posted annual serious delinquency increases were Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida and Punta Gorda, Florida (both up by 0.4 percentage points). The next CoreLogic Loan Performance Insights Report will be released on October 26, 2023, featuring data for August 2023. For ongoing housing trends and data, visit the CoreLogic Intelligence Blog: www.corelogic.com/intelligence. Methodology The data in The CoreLogic LPI report represents foreclosure and delinquency activity reported through July 2023. The data in this report accounts for only first liens against a property and does not include secondary liens. The delinquency, transition and foreclosure rates are measured only against homes that have an outstanding mortgage. Homes without mortgage liens are not subject to foreclosure and are, therefore, excluded from the analysis. CoreLogic has approximately 75% coverage of U.S. foreclosure data. Source: CoreLogic The data provided is for use only by the primary recipient or the primary recipient's publication or broadcast. This data may not be re-sold, republished or licensed to any other source, including publications and sources owned by the primary recipient's parent company without prior written permission from CoreLogic. Any CoreLogic data used for publication or broadcast, in whole or in part, must be sourced as coming from CoreLogic, a data and analytics company. For use with broadcast or web content, the citation must directly accompany first reference of the data. If the data is illustrated with maps, charts, graphs or other visual elements, the CoreLogic logo must be included on screen or website. For questions, analysis or interpretation of the data, contact Robin Wachner at newsmedia@corelogic.com. For sales inquiries, please visit https://www.corelogic.com/support/sales-contact/. Data provided may not be modified without the prior written permission of CoreLogic. Do not use the data in any unlawful manner. This data is compiled from public records, contributory databases and proprietary analytics, and its accuracy is dependent upon these sources. About CoreLogic CoreLogic is a leading global property information, analytics and data-enabled solutions provider. The company's combined data from public, contributory and proprietary sources includes over 4.5 billion records spanning more than 50 years, providing detailed coverage of property, mortgages and other encumbrances, consumer credit, tenancy, location, hazard risk and related performance information. The markets CoreLogic serves include real estate and mortgage finance, insurance, capital markets, and the public sector. CoreLogic delivers value to clients through unique data, analytics, workflow technology, advisory and managed services. Clients rely on CoreLogic to help identify and manage growth opportunities, improve performance and mitigate risk. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., CoreLogic operates in North America, Western Europe and Asia Pacific. For more information, please visit www.corelogic.com. CORELOGIC and the CoreLogic logo are trademarks of CoreLogic, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928383949/en/ Contacts Media Contact: Robin Wachner CoreLogic newsmedia@corelogic.com Sales Contact: https://www.corelogic.com/support/sales-contact/ Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin returns to the United States Thursday after wrapping up his first tour across the African continent as Pentagon chief. Austin started his tour in Djibouti, home to the primary U.S. military base on the African continent. There he met with Djiboutian leaders and Somalias president, whose forces, Austin said, had made more progress against the al-Shabab terror group in the past year than the previous five years combined. Austin then turned to Kenya, visiting a base in Manda Bay near the Somali border where a terrorist attack in 2020 killed three Americans. Message here being very clear that the war on terror still remains top on the agenda of the American government, said Vincent Kimosop, a policy analyst with Sovereign Insight. The American and Kenyan defense secretaries signed a five-year security agreement to support working together against their common terror threat. Austin also pledged $100 million in support of Kenyan security deployments, as Kenya prepares to lead a multinational peacekeeping mission to Haiti to combat gang violence. Kenya is ready, Kenya is willing to lead that multinational peacekeeping force that will go to Haiti, said Kenyan Cabinet Secretary of Defense Aden Duale. Austin ended his trip on Africas western coast, becoming the first U.S. defense secretary to ever visit Angola. Officials of both nations are hopeful that Angola can dump Russia as its arms supplier and opt for American-made weapons. Africa deserves better than outsiders trying to tighten their grip on this continent, Austin said. Africa deserves better than autocrats selling cheap guns, pushing mercenary forces like the Wagner Group or depriving grain from hungry people all around the world. Austin called out African military juntas without naming Burkina Faso, Gabon, Mali or Niger. It was his most forceful rhetoric since the military removed Nigers elected president from power in July. When generals overturn the will of the people and put their own ambitions above the rule of law, security suffers -- and democracy dies, Austin said. Militaries exist to defend their people, not to defy them. And Africa needs militaries that serve their citizens and not the other way around. France decided this week to withdraw its military forces from Niger by the end of the year, and analysts say the U.S. could follow suit should the Nigerien military not return the elected government to power. Niger has become the key hub, the key center of counterterrorism operations for the U.S. and France in the region, said Bill Roggio of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. And if this is, if its cut back, or if its reduced, or if its ended, there is no other assets in the region that the U.S. can use. The U.S. has so far kept its forces in Niger, but the Pentagon has declined to conduct counterterror operations with Nigers military. An American soldier who illegally crossed into North Korea in July arrived back in the United States early Thursday, according to a U.S. defense official. The official said Travis King landed in San Antonio, Texas. A senior Biden administration official told reporters Wednesday that King was transferred out of the DPRK and crossed the border to China with the help of the government of Sweden. The official said the U.S. received him in China and transferred him home. DPRK is an acronym for North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. "We thank the government of Sweden for its diplomatic role serving as the protecting power for the United States in the DPRK and the government of the Peoples Republic of China for its assistance in facilitating the transit of Private King," National security adviser Jake Sullivan said in a statement Wednesday. Pentagon Press Secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder praised the "the hard work of personnel in the Army, United States Forces Korea, and across the Department of Defense to bring Private King home." There were no concessions given to North Korea for this exchange, a senior administration official told VOA during a briefing to reporters Wednesday. "We're going to focus for the next several weeks for as long as it takes to get private King on good - on solid footing. And then we'll address any administrative actions that may follow after the reintegration process," the official said. A statement Wednesday from a representative of Claudine Gates, Kings mother, said, "Ms. Gates will be forever grateful to the United States Army and all its interagency partners for a job well done." Earlier Wednesday, North Korea said it was expelling King after wrapping up its final investigation of him. He was taken by North Korean soldiers in July after dashing through the Koreas heavily militarized border. King was facing pending administrative separation from the U.S. Army when he returned to his base in Fort Bliss, Texas, after spending time in a South Korean jail on assault charges. He was about to board a plane to the United States on July 17 when he snuck out of the airport and made it onto a civilian tour of the border complex between North and South Korea one day later. King was taken by North Korean soldiers on duty at the Joint Security Area, KCNA reported, when the plain-clothed soldier "deliberately intruded into the area of the DPRK side between the room for the DPRK-U.S. military contacts and the restroom of security officers along the Military Demarcation Line." The Norths official news agency, KCNA, said Wednesday that King had harbored ill feelings over inhumane treatment and racial discrimination within the U.S. army. It added that North Korea's interim findings were that King wanted refuge in North Korea or elsewhere because of that same reason. The Military Demarcation Line is the official border separating the two Koreas, put in place by an armistice that paused the 1950-53 Korean War, which remains without a formal end and peace treaty. VOA White House Bureau Chief Patsy Widakuswara and Eunice Kim in Seoul contributed to this report. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin returns to the U.S. Thursday after wrapping up his first tour across the African continent as defense secretary. VOA Pentagon correspondent Carla Babb is traveling with Austin and has details from his trip. Seven Australian lawmakers have toured a refugee camp in Armenia, as thousands of ethnic Armenians flee their homes in Nagorno-Karabakh. Forces from Azerbaijan took control of the contested region last week. A delegation of seven Australian lawmakers is visiting Armenia this week and toured a camp for those fleeing the unrest. The lawmakers have described a shortage of humanitarian relief and a sense of fear among those who have been displaced. They are urging Australia and other countries to send more aid and medical supplies and have called on the United Nations to send observers to monitor the situation. Nagorno-Karabakh is recognized internationally as part of Azerbaijan, but the mountainous enclave in the South Caucasus has been under the control of ethnic Armenians for three decades with support from Armenia and its ally, Russia, which has had a peacekeeping mission there for three years. Last week, Azerbaijani forces seized control, prompting thousands of ethnic Armenians to flee to Armenia. Ethnic Armenian fighters in the region were forced to disarm. Mark Coure is the New South Wales state shadow minister for multiculturalism and is part of the delegation. He spoke to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation from the town of Goris in Armenia about the flood of refugees. We are seeing firsthand, I think, an international crisis unfold. We are seeing hundreds of cars and buses and open-top trucks snaking their way through Armenia. What we are seeing here is just truly an extraordinary event unfold. The main square in Goris is crowded, which is where I am standing at the moment. Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong said Australia encouraged dialogue and a commitment by all sides to talks that deliver a just and lasting peace in Nagorno-Karabakh. Authorities have said more than 28,000 refugees had crossed into Armenia. The countrys prime minister, Nikol Pashinyan, told local media that ethnic cleansing was underway in the region. Azerbaijan has insisted that it wants to reintegrate the ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh as "equal citizens. Representatives from Azerbaijan and Armenia have met in Brussels for talks brokered by the European Union. Azerbaijan mounted an effective blockade of a vital route into the enclave in December. Burkina Faso's military government said Wednesday it had foiled a coup attempt the previous day, almost a year after the country's leader came to power in a coup himself. In a statement read out on state television, it said "a proven coup attempt was foiled on September 26, 2023, by Burkina Faso's intelligence and security services. "At present, officers and other alleged participants in this destabilization attempt have been arrested and others are being actively sought," the statement said. It said the alleged perpetrators "had the sinister intention of attacking the institutions of the Republic and plunging the country into chaos." Junta leader Captain Ibrahim Traore seized power on September 30, 2022, the landlocked country's second coup in eight months. The two takeovers were each triggered in part by discontent at failures to stem a raging jihadist insurgency which swept in from neighboring Mali in 2015. Late on Tuesday thousands of people took to the streets of the capital, Ouagadougou, following a call from Traore supporters to defend him amid rumors of a coup on social media. The military government said it would seek to shed "all possible light on this plot." It said it "regrets that officers whose oath is to defend their homeland have strayed into an undertaking of this nature, which aims to hinder the Burkinabe people's march for sovereignty and total liberation from the terrorist hordes trying to enslave them." Earlier this month, the country's military prosecutor said three soldiers had been arrested and charged with plotting against the ruling junta. Investigators had received a tipoff about "soldiers and former soldiers working in intelligence" who were scouting out the homes and other locations used by key figures in the junta, including Traore. Their goal was to "destabilize ... the transition," it said, referring to a term used to describe interim military rule before promised elections. Shortly after Traore's takeover, military prosecutors in December 2022 also said there had been an attempt to "destabilize state institutions." Those behind it, they said, were civilians and a lieutenant-colonel named Emmanuel Zoungrana. More than 17,000 civilians and troops have died in jihadi attacks in Burkina Faso, according to a count by an NGO monitor called the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project. More than 2 million people have also been uprooted, making it one of the worst internal displacement crises in Africa. Anger within the Burkinabe armed forces led to a coup in January 2022, toppling elected president Roch Marc Christian Kabore. On September 30, Kabore's nemesis, Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, was himself overthrown. Last week the government claimed nearly 192,000 internally displaced people had returned to their homes after various regions were retaken by government forces. Jihadist attacks continue unabated despite government claims to have wrested back territory. A bold move by the Philippine coast guard this week to publicly cut loose a floating barrier installed by China near a disputed South China Sea lagoon highlights how Beijing's actions are fueling forceful responses, analysts say. It also could help rally other countries in the region to stand up to Beijing. "The current [Philippine] government understands the need to foster collective deterrence of denial and punishment with willing partners as an appropriate strategy to impose a red line for China," said Joshua Espena, a resident fellow at the International Development and Security Cooperation, a Philippine-based think tank. China says it floated the 300-meter barrier near the entrance of Scarborough Shoal to keep Philippine fishing vessels away. The fertile fishing area and disputed reef lies within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone a 200-mile area off any country's shore but has been under effective Chinese control since 2012. The barriers were installed late last week but by Tuesday, the Philippines announced they had been removed. Shortly after that, the Philippine coast guard released a video on X, formerly known as Twitter, that showed a diver using a knife to cut the floating barriers loose. Rallying support It is not the first time the Philippines released video to highlight what experts call China's gray zone operations in the South China Sea. In August the Philippine coast guard shared footage of a Chinese coast guard ship firing water cannons at a Philippine vessel conducting resupply missions to a World War II-era warship, the Sierra Madre, which Manila intentionally grounded at the Second Thomas Shoal as a military outpost to safeguard its territorial claim. Gray zone operations refer to the use of military and non-military offensive tactics to intimidate or coerce, and Manila's decision to publicize China's actions could help rally support from the Philippine public and international allies, some analysts say. "In order to push back against China," Ray Powell, director of SeaLight at the Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation at Stanford University, told VOA by phone, Manila "needs their own people behind them and they have to build a base of international support." Manila's efforts to defend its economic zone also include using larger naval vessels for resupply missions around Second Thomas Shoal and conducting regular military exercises or maritime patrols with like-minded countries including the U.S. and Australia. Some observers say these measures will force Beijing to review its coercive tactics against the Philippines. "There is an obvious uptick in engaging friendly powers to build collective strength," said Collin Koh, a defense scholar at Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, in a phone interview. "It seems to have an effect of forcing the Chinese to recalculate and recalibrate their moves going forward." Espena, though, said he believes the rising tension between Beijing and Manila will not stop until one side capitulates. "I don't think China is meek enough to set a red line on itself," he told VOA, adding that he expects Beijing to keep using economic, diplomatic, informational and military tools to deter its Philippine counterparts. During a daily press briefing Wednesday, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said Beijing would continue to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests over the disputed reef that the Chinese called "Huangyan Dao." On the same day, the Guangdong Maritime Safety Administration issued a warning about planned military exercises in parts of the South China Sea scheduled on September 28. In a statement, the administration said the drills would take place in the morning and evening. No details were released about the location of the exercises. To counter Beijing's pledge to defend its territorial interests around the disputed reef, the Philippine coast guard urged fishermen to keep operating in the area. "We're going to increase patrols in Bajo de Masinloc and other areas where Filipino fishermen are," Philippine coast guard spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela told a local radio station on Wednesday, according to Reuters. Ripple effect? As territorial disputes between China and the Philippines are likely to continue, other South China Sea claimant states in the region have also lodged complaints about Beijing's continuous expansion. Bloomberg reported on Wednesday that Vietnam's Foreign Affairs Ministry protested Beijing's installation of two automatic vessel identification stations in the Paracel Islands, a disputed South China Sea island chain claimed by Vietnam and Taiwan but long occupied by China. Even though several other Southeast Asian states have territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea, Koh in Singapore said countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia are unwilling to assertively confront China as Manila has been doing. "They don't appear keen to rock the boat with China," he told VOA. If the Philippines successfully pushes back against China's gray zone operations, other South China Sea claimant states in Southeast Asia may emulate Manila's tactics in the future. "If the Chinese are unsuccessful in trying to shape the Philippines' behavior, there might be a domino effect in Southeast Asia," Koh said. "Other Southeast Asian countries could get inspired by what Manila is doing and they may do the same thing against China in the South China Sea. That would become very problematic for Beijing." Environmental experts are ringing alarm bells, saying decades-long climate and environmental changes in Sudan have exacerbated social and political instability, fueling the monthslong conflict in the country centered around access to land, water and other vital resources. The current conflict in Sudan, rooted in global geopolitics and the historical legacy of the previous leadership of now-deposed authoritarian leader Omar al-Bashir, is increasingly being attributed to climate change. In a May report, Practical Action, a Britain-based international development organization, highlighted the impact of climate change in Sudan, which includes the encroachment of the desert southward and a stark reduction in rainfall. Akinyi Walender, Practical Action Africa director, underscored the consequences of climate change in Sudan, including heightened drought, extreme rainfall variability, depletion of water sources and desertification spanning millions of hectares of land. Speaking to VOA via WhatsApp, Walender said the conversion of migratory routes and pastureland into farmland has significantly disrupted the natural balance and accelerated desertification. The United Nations says desertification is the persistent degradation of dryland ecosystems by climate change and mainly human activities unsustainable farming, mining, overgrazing and clear-cutting of land. The U.N. Convention to Combat Desertification says approximately 65% of Sudans land is affected by desertification. Walender said climate change and conflict in Sudan are caught in a destructive cycle, potentially worsening the situation in the East African nation. The effects of war, such as the destruction of infrastructure, displacement of communities, and the use of airstrikes and heavy artillery, intensify the environmental damage in Sudan, she said. The International Organization for Migration, the U.N.s migration agency, says nearly 7.1 million people are internally displaced within Sudan, 3.8 million being newly displaced due to the countrys monthslong conflict between the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Force. Awadalla Hamid, an environmental conservation manager at Practical Action in Sudans North Darfur State, said human activities have taken a toll on natural resources and ecosystems, intensifying environmental degradation. Hamid said the displacement of communities in Sudan has led to further environmental damage. As people are forced to flee their homes, they often settle in temporary camps or new areas, leading to uncontrolled land-use changes, overexploitation of resources and increased pressure on fragile environments, Hamid said. The influx of displaced populations can also result in deforestation, soil erosion and pollution. The U.N. Environment Program says environmental destruction during conflicts has a direct impact on public health due to air and water pollution. The use of airstrikes and heavy artillery, while causing immediate destruction, also results in long-term environmental consequences, the U.N says. Walender said addressing the environmental consequences of conflict requires a holistic approach peacebuilding, conflict resolution and sustainable environmental practices. Swar Adam, who fled violence in South Darfur and currently resides in Kosti, White Nile State, Sudan, told VOA his displacement has left him unable to tend to his livestock, which is his livelihood. It is very difficult at the moment to go and identify your cattle in such a situation, Adam said. I am not sure if they are now being fed on good grazing land or not. This is the situation I am in now. This story originated in VOA English to Africas South Sudan In Focus Program. During his recent four-day visit to China, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad was greeted by jubilant music, rows of performers and a promise to help Syria rebuild. As National Public Radio correspondent Aya Batrawy put it on September 23, Assads welcome in China marked the rehabilitation of a man who had been a global pariah since crushing a popular uprising against his government with bombs and the full force of his military and security apparatus. That war, she said, killed hundreds of thousands of people, and millions of Syrians remain displaced. Assads visit also marked the emergence of a strategic partnership between the two countries, sending a message to the West about Chinas growing influence in the Middle East. But for that partnership to fully bloom, Beijing needs the West to ease the diplomatic and economic sanctions that were imposed against the Syrian regime after it was accused of war crimes. Thus, in expressing support for Syria during his meeting with Assad, Chinese President Xi Jinping directly addressed the issue, claiming that Western sanctions are illegal. China urges relevant countries to immediately lift all illegal unilateral sanctions against Syria. That is misleading. United Nations sanctions are internationally recognized and binding, while sanctions imposed by an individual country are unilateral. Sanctions imposed by an individual country are legal according to that countrys laws but not legally binding for others. Thus, the sanctions imposed by the United States, European Union, Australia and Switzerland against Assad and his regime are unilateral, meaning other nations can choose whether to abide by them. Some nations, including Iran, Russia and China, continued to do business in Syria despite the sanctions. Xi used that loophole in terminology to mislead on the legality of the sanctions against Syria. He also ignored the Syrian governments crimes and failed to say why sanctions were imposed against the Assad regime in the first place. Pro-democracy protests erupted across Syria in March 2011, with citizens demanding an end to the Assad regimes authoritarian practices. The protests quickly turned into a civil war between the Syrian regime, backed by Russia and Iran, and anti-government rebel groups backed by the United States, its global allies and regional countries, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates. By August 2012, U.N. investigators accused all sides in Syrias civil war of war crimes but said a greater number and bigger variety of the war crimes had been committed from the government side. These included unlawful killing, torture, arbitrary arrest and detention, sexual violence, indiscriminate attack, pillaging and destruction of property, U.N. investigators said. They said Syrian government forces and the pro-government Shabiha militia had raped men, women and children in acts that could be prosecuted as crimes against humanity. The Syrian regime has been accused of using chemical weapons hundreds of times over the course of the conflict, and it was internationally condemned for that in 2013, 2017 and 2018. A study by the Berlin-based Global Public Policy Institute concluded that as of 2019, 98% of the chemical attacks in Syrias civil war were carried out by Assads regime. These included dropping chlorine gas, sarin and sulfur mustard gas on Syrian civilians. In March 2017, the U.N. Security Council drafted a resolution to impose sanctions on Syria over the use of chemical weapons. Russia and China vetoed it. Moreover, a decade of civil war also turned the war-torn country into a narco-state. A New York Times investigation published in December 2021 concluded that the drug trade had become a multibillion-dollar operation with alleged ties to the Syrian military and relatives of Assad. The United States, European Union, Canada, Australia and Switzerland have imposed economic sanctions on the Assad regime since the start of Syrias civil war, aimed at preventing the regime from using violence against Syrian citizens. In 2019, the United States passed the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act, which involves secondary sanctions targeting any global entities conducting business with the Syrian government, its military and intelligence agencies. The act was named after an anonymous Syrian military photographer who had defected with 53,000 pictures of victims of torture taken inside government prisons. The Rand Corporation, a global policy think tank, wrote in 2021: Despite its limited application, the Caesar Act has had significant influence on the Syrian debacle and Assad's ability to claim complete victory for two reasons the ability of the United States to target entities globally and the fact that the sanctions are mandated by law. The U.S. sanctions exempt humanitarian aid, medical assistance and supplies, food and daily necessities. Yet the sanctions came into question in February after a 7.8-magnitude earthquake rocked southeast Turkey near the Syrian border and the last Syrian opposition stronghold, exacerbating the ongoing wars effects. On February 10, the U.S. announced a 180-day exemption to its sanctions on Syria for all transactions related to earthquake relief efforts. The Assad regime, however, insisted that all aid had to go through his government before being distributed to affected regions. On September 22, following an address by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to a joint session of the Canadian Parliament, Anthony Rota, speaker of the House of Commons, identified one of the attendees, 98-year-old Yaroslav Hunka, as a Ukrainian veteran of World War II. Rota called him a hero, and Hunka received a standing ovation. Two days later, Ukrainian journalist Lev Golinkin revealed in the U.S.-based Jewish news outlet The Forward that Hunka had served in the 14th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS, the military wing of the Nazi Party. Russian Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov used the incident to justify Russias war in Ukraine. Rewriting the history of World War II is unacceptable. The Brown Plague must be stopped. This is exactly what the Russian Armed Forces are doing in Ukraine under the special military operation. That is false. Contrary to rewriting World War II history, Canadas leadership expressed embarrassment and apologized for the incident. Immediately after The Forwards article was published, Rota took responsibility for inviting Hunka and apologized, saying that neither the Canadian leadership nor Zelenskyy knew about his intention to invite Hunka, let alone Hunkas true identity. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the incident "deeply embarrassing to the parliament of Canada and by extension to all Canadians." Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said Rotas actions were absolutely unacceptable and called on him to resign. Rota resigned on September 26. Two Canadian Jewish organizations the Friends of the Simon Wiesenthal Center and the Center for Jewish and Israeli Affairs said they were " deeply disturbed" by the Canadian Parliament's honoring of a veteran of an SS division that participated in the Holocaust. Antonov also accused U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller of having had a vague reaction to the Nazi scandal in Canada. During his September 25 press briefing, Miller appeared to not know about the scandal. Asked about it again during his briefing the following day, Miller said: I saw that today. The Canadian government said they were not aware of that individuals past and expressed regret for it, and that seems like the appropriate step. Antonovs claim that Russia's intervention in Ukraine is a special military operation to stop the Brown Plague meaning fascism is false. Yet while Hunkas appearance in the Canadian Parliament has sent ripples across the globe, Russia has "gone into overdrive to launch an anti-Ukraine disinformation campaign about the incident, one involving Russian state officials, lawmakers, diplomats and state-controlled news outlets, the Toronto Star reported on September 26. The Russian Embassy in the United Kingdom falsely stated on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, that the Ukrainian postal service was selling stamps with Hunkas face on them, claiming this shows the true nature of the Canadian and Ukrainian regimes. The Russian Embassy in Canada posted a statement on social media: Citizens of this country must once again think about who their leaders glorify and what kind of junta they support in Ukraine. Russias RIA Novosti state news agency published 10 articles about the scandal on September 25 and 26. RT, the Russian state-controlled international news television network, published 15 articles from September 24 to 27, denouncing Canada and Ukraine for allegedly supporting Nazism. On February 24, 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a special military operation to demilitarize and denazify Ukraine. It was, in fact, a Russian invasion designed to subjugate a democratic and peaceful country whose president and parliament were elected in free and democratic elections. Statements by Putin and in Russian state propaganda about the need to denazify Ukraine are part of a disinformation campaign that began in 2014, when Viktor Yanukovych, Ukraines then pro-Russian president, was overthrown in a popular uprising. As for the Russian ambassadors outrage over rewriting World War II history, his government has been notorious for doing that. Indeed, historic revisionism and exploitation of World War II-era patriotic sentiment has been a key part of the Kremlins propaganda strategy. In August 2023, Russia introduced new Russian history textbooks for high school students in the areas of Ukraine it has occupied. These textbooks misrepresent the Soviet Unions role in World War II and justify Russia full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which they call an ultranationalist state. Costco members willing to pay cash can get discount pricing on some outpatient services, including virtual primary care for $29 and virtual mental health therapy for $79. Costco is offering outpatient healthcare services to members for as low as $29 through a new partnership with Sesame , a healthcare marketplace that connects healthcare providers with consumers. The new service does not accept health insurance . Sesame said in a statement that this allows it to offer low prices. Costco members can receive discount pricing on a range of healthcare services nationwide, virtually or in-person with a provider, Sesame said. These include: Virtual primary care for $29 Health check-ups that include a standard lab panel and a virtual follow-up consultation with a provider for $72 Virtual mental health therapy for $79 10% off of all other Sesame services including in-person appointments Providers in the Sesame marketplace include primary care doctors and nurses, more than 40 health specialties, as well as labs and imaging centers. Quality, great value and low price are what the Costco brand is known for, said David Goldhill , Sesames co-founder and CEO, and an author on healthcare reform. When it comes to health care, Sesame also delivers high quality and great value and a low price that will be appreciated by Costco Members when it comes to their own care. To get started For Costco members looking to tap into the new service, you should create an account with Sesame and verify your Costco membership. Costco is following a similar path to many other retailers as well as health insurers aiming to cut healthcare costs.These include Walgreens, which recently expanded further into value-based healthcare by announcing a partnership with Pearl Health . Pearl Health is a startup technology firm focused on primary care physicians transitioning away from fee-for-service compensation to value-based payments with the aim of reducing the total cost of care. Story continues Select Health and its pharmacy benefits manager Scripius recently announced a partnership with the Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs Company to give members access to more than 1,000 prescription products at potentially lower prices than traditional pharmacies. The collaboration encompasses medications for many common conditions including high blood pressure, certain cancers, dementia, asthma and diabetes. Gabon's prime minister says international sanctions and pressure for a return to constitutional order could be devastating to the countrys economy. He also says the military junta needs time to carry out reforms and a national dialogue before a projected return to civilian rule. Speaking to reporters Wednesday, Gabon's prime minister, Raymond Ndong Sima, said he wants to remind the world that by seizing power, the military saved the central African state from a civil war. He said Gabon's political opposition was ready to take up arms and defend its victory after ousted president Ali Bongo Ondimba orchestrated alarming fraud and declared himself thewinner of the August 26 presidential election. Sima said the international community and friendly countries should be compassionate and stop all sanctions they have already imposed or are planning to impose to press for a return to constitutional order in Gabon. The prime minister said Gabon will have challenges developing its economy and fighting poverty if foreign pressure and sanctions are not rapidly removed. Contested results indicate 69-year-old Albert Ondo Ossa, leader of Gabon's main opposition group Alternance 2023, won the August 26 election. But soldiers announced on national television on August 30 that they had seized power. The designation of General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, head of the Republican Guard, as president, sparked an international outcry for a return to constitutional order. This week, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the suspension of what he called certain foreign assistance programs to Gabon, pending a review of the circumstances that led to the ouster of President Bongo, who had ruled Gabon since 2009, when he succeeded his late father, Omar Bongo. The State Department said the suspension would not affect U.S. government operations in the oil-producing central African nation but did not elaborate on what U.S.-funded programs would be affected or how much money would be placed on hold. Sima, speaking in Gabons capital, Libreville, said the country's military junta should be allowed to undertake initiatives to restore stability, carry out institutional and legislative reforms, fight corruption, ensure sustainable economic development, and conduct a national dialogue before organizing elections. Sima did not say how much time the military junta needs to carry out the reforms and return power to civilians. Telesphore Ondo is a public law lecturer at Omar Bongo University in Libreville. Ondo tells Gabon state TV that the central African states military leader needs time and resources to carry out consultations and organize a national dialogue that will reconcile civilians who are angry over the Bongo family's close-to-60-year rule that did not develop the oil producing nation. He says during the consultation and dialogue the military junta should make it known if it needs one, two or three years to return to civilian rule. France, China, Russia, the United Kingdom and Canada are among nations, along with the U.S., that have expressed concerns about the military junta taking over in Gabon and are asking for a return to normalcy. Similar requests have come from the United Nations, two central African regional blocs and the African Union. Israel arrested five Palestinians in a plot allegedly hatched in Iran to target and spy on senior Israeli politicians, including Israel's far-right national security minister, the country's internal security agency said Wednesday. The Shin Bet security service alleged that an Iranian security official living in neighboring Jordan had recruited three Palestinian men in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and another two Palestinian citizens of Israel to gather intelligence about several high-profile Israeli politicians. The targets included National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir a firebrand Israeli settler leader who oversees the country's police force in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's ultranationalist government as well as Yehuda Glick, an American-born far-right Israeli activist and former member of parliament. The plan was foiled by Israeli intelligence officials, the Shin Bet said, without offering evidence. Iran's mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the allegations. Ben-Gvir, who draws inspiration from a racist rabbi, has provoked outrage across the wider Middle East for his particularly hard-line policies against the Palestinians, anti-Arab rhetoric and stunts and frequent public visits to the holiest and most contested site in the Holy Land. The hilltop compound in Jerusalem, revered by Jews as the Temple Mount and by Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary, is at the emotional center of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Glick is a leader in a campaign that pushes for increased Jewish access and prayer rights at the sacred Jerusalem compound, the holiest site in Judaism home to ancient biblical Temples. Today, the compound houses the Al Aqsa Mosque, the third-holiest site in Islam. Since Israel captured the site in 1967, Jews have been allowed to visit but not pray there. Glick survived a 2014 Palestinian assassination attempt. The Shin Bet did not elaborate on the identity of the Iranian official in Jordan who allegedly orchestrated the plot. He is not in custody and apparently remains at large. But the Shin Bet accused three Palestinian men in the West Bank identified as 47-year old Murad Kamamaja, 34-year-old Hassan Mujarimah and 45-year-old Ziad Shanti of gathering intelligence and smuggling weapons into Israel. The security service also said that it charged two Palestinian citizens of Israel over their involvement in the plot. It did not specify how the men planned to target Ben-Gvir and the other politicians. Israel has considered Iran to be its greatest enemy since it became a Shiite theocracy during the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Iran is a main patron of Lebanon's Hezbollah militant group, which Israel considers the most potent military threat on its borders, and also backs Palestinian Islamist militant groups in the Gaza Strip. Israel finalized a $3.5 billion deal on Thursday to sell its cutting-edge Arrow 3 missile defense system to Germany as the nation seeks to protect itself from the types of air assaults that have ravaged Ukraine. We see from the daily Russian attacks on Ukraine how important air defense is in general, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius told reporters. Air defense is essential, and particularly for us here in the center of Europe. Pistorius hailed the Arrow 3 as one of the best systems, if not the best. Berlin plans to implement the anti-missile technology in late 2025 and integrate it into broader NATO air defense programs. Last year, Berlin also spearheaded the European Sky Shield Initiative, a sprawling air defense campaign that now covers 19 nations. The United States helped Israel build Arrow and in August green-lighted the German-Israeli deal. Yoav Gallant, Pistorius Israeli counterpart, said that with two simple signatures today, we made history. Gallant promised Berlin a timely and effective delivery. Gallant also reflected on how far Germany has come since the Holocaust, pointing out German contributions to Israels national security and sovereignty. He called the deal a moving event for every Jew. Israel and Germany join hands today in building a safer future for both nations, Gallant said. Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press. Malian political groups expressed outrage Wednesday at the junta's decision to postpone indefinitely the presidential election that was supposed to bring back civilian rule. The ruling junta on Monday announced a delay to a presidential election scheduled for February in the jihadi-hit West African nation. New dates for the voting "will be communicated later," a government spokesperson had said. The reasons given for the postponement included issues linked to the adoption this year of a new constitution and a review of the electoral lists. The spokesperson also cited a dispute with French company Idemia, which the junta says is involved in the census process. The M5-RFP opposition coalition denounced the decision to delay the two rounds of voting initially set for Feb. 4 and 18, 2024 saying the junta needs "to respect its commitments." Since Monday, other parties have spoken out against the postponement, which is a further challenge to the West African bloc ECOWAS. ECOWAS has not reacted officially to the latest announcement but has been putting pressure on the junta since 2020 to return civilians to power. The 15-member organization, which proclaims a principle of "zero tolerance" for coups d'etat, has been faced with a succession of coups since the first putsch in Bamako, in Mali's neighbors Burkina Faso and Niger, as well as in Guinea. The Mali junta's announcement is yet another delay to the schedule for handing back power to elected civilians. The soldiers, who carried out back-to-back coups in 2020 and 2021, had earlier promised legislative elections for February 2022. The head of the self-declared separatist state in Nagorno-Karabakh said Thursday the entity will dissolve itself and cease to exist by the end of the year, as thousands more ethnic Armenians flee the region to Armenia. The decree from separatist leader Samvel Shakhramanyan follows last weeks operation by Azerbaijani forces to retake control of the area. Armenian authorities said more than half of the 120,000 ethnic Armenians who were living in Nagorno-Karabakh had crossed into Armenia by Thursday morning. The exodus that began Sunday and clogged the road to Armenia with cars came amid fears of reprisals, despite pledges from Azerbaijan to respect the rights of ethnic Armenians in the region. Authorities in Azerbaijan on Thursday charged former Nagorno-Karabakh separatist leader Ruben Vardanyan with financing terrorism and illegal border crossing. The charges came a day after Azerbaijans State Border Service arrested Vardanyan and brought him to Baku. Vardanyan made his fortune in Russia as the owner of a major investment bank. He moved to Nagorno-Karabakh in 2022 and served as the region's head of government until he stepped down earlier this year. Nagorno-Karabakh is entirely within Azerbaijan but had been under ethnic Armenian control since 1994, until parts of it were reclaimed by Azerbaijan during a war in 2020. Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press and Reuters. The White House says a new advisory council composed of prominent Americans of African heritage aims at "enhancing dialogue between U.S. officials and the African diaspora" a key focus of President Joe Biden's partnership-focused revamped Africa strategy. The initiative coincides with a steady, two-decade rise in immigration from the continent that will have a significant demographic impact in coming decades. The 12 members of the volunteer council called the Presidents Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement in the United States were chosen from more than 100 "exceptional" applications and recommendations, said Johnnie Carson, a longtime Africa diplomat who serves as Biden's special representative to oversee the implementation of the 2022 U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit. The council, whose quarterly meetings will be open to the public, is packed with business leaders but also includes artistic figures and a WNBA player. Carson said it will advise the White House and State Department on how to "deepen the connections that exist between the U.S. and Africa in the business world, in the financial world, in the sporting world, in the creative world, and to stress and bring to the attention of American policymakers issues of concern to the diaspora community." Group includes clergy, artists, writers The council members come from eight U.S. states and the capital, and have ties spanning the African continent. Some members are U.S.-born, including council leader the Rev. Silvester Beaman, a bishop at the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and decorated artist, actress, producer and author Viola Davis. Others were born on the continent, like Eritrea-born Almaz Negash, founder of the African Diaspora Network, and Congo-born Patrick Gaspard, the former U.S. ambassador to South Africa. Gaspard, who now leads the Center for American Progress think tank, told VOA that his priorities on the council will be promoting two key programs soon up for congressional renewal: the trade-related African Growth and Opportunity Act and the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Both programs, started under President George W. Bush, have been credited with boosting trade and saving lives. Other members, he said, bring different perspectives. He anticipates they will cover "everything from cultural ties, to economic ties to what we do together to solve for the big challenges. ... We have the chance to turn that into opportunities." One in 10 Black Americans is a recent immigrant, according to the Pew Research Center, which projects that the nation's Black immigrant population will account for roughly a third of the U.S. Black population's growth through 2060. And, said Cameroon-born analyst and writer Yaya Moussa, the large size of the African diaspora in the U.S. offers a "potential powerful role in the soft power competition." "These connections simply do not exist in China and Russia, America's biggest strategic rivals in Africa," writes Moussa. "African-Americans have been instrumental in shaping U.S. foreign policy toward Africa, and the U.S. government has begun to recognize the latent strength of its diaspora communities." 'There may be opportunities' Oye Owolewa is among a small group of Africa-born immigrants who has risen within the American system: in 2020, the Nigeria-born pharmacist was elected as Washington, D.C.'s shadow representative in the House of Representatives. That position does not make him a voting member of Congress. Owolewa, who is not on the diaspora council, offered his take: "If it isn't just a one-off, then I believe that there may be opportunities for people outside of the White House to also have their own collective impact and continue what we're doing," he told VOA. His office has taken a particular interest in an issue that he believes uplifts residents of his constituency, of whom 13% are foreign-born and 45% are Black: That is teaching women- and minority-owned businesses how to apply for often-lucrative U.S. government contracts. VOA pointed out that there are set-asides in government contracting regulations for those very kinds of businesses. "That's true," he said. "But no one teaches these businesses how to get contracts. So our office has been doing that. Because if you roll out the money, but don't teach those that fall between the cracks how to retrieve it, it's the same few getting more opportunities." And that, Gaspard said, is what the council broadly aims to do, but on a larger scale. "There really is a need to strengthen those ties, the umbilical cord that stretches from the continent to its diaspora," he said. "The diaspora is growing leaps and bounds in places like Detroit, certainly my hometown of New York, and you can't go into a public institution in Washington, D.C. without encountering the African diaspora," he said. "It's now more important than ever for us to kind of more broadly socialize awareness of the disparate cultures, but that leads to real opportunities for partnership." As the Biden administration presses to advance a potentially historic Israel-Saudi Arabia normalization deal, observers see problems if the U.S. promises too much to make the deal happen. The Biden administration is working with Saudi Arabia and Israel on a package of agreements and concessions that could enable the historic foes to normalize relations. Washington says there is still much to discuss for such an agreement to be reached. But analyst David Ottaway of the Wilson Center in Washington is already raising questions about the prospective deal. Writing in the Wilson Centers Viewpoint Series, the senior Wilson scholar said that Saudi Arabia wants a formal security guarantee from the United States in return for normalizing diplomatic ties with Israel. Washington has already provided $140 billion in military aid and has been Saudi Arabias main security partner, so Ottaway wonders why the Saudis want such an agreement now. The U.S. only has two such agreements with countries outside NATO, with Japan and South Korea, he writes. He says if President Joe Biden commits to a security guarantee, he will face serious questions about when American intervention may become necessary. Nor is it clear what such an agreement would cover in terms of triggering a U.S. military response to what the Saudis themselves declare a foreign attack. Analysts like Trita Parsi, the executive vice president at the Washington-based Quincy Institute, point out that the Saudis not only want a security guarantee, but help on a nuclear program from the U.S. Could this spark an arms race in the Middle East, he asks the institutes online forum. If normalization happens without these concessions, it would be a different story," said Parsi. "But when we are adding these concessions in order to get that normalization, not only does this raise questions about how this advances U.S. interests. It also raises the question why this is needed if normalization is actually good for Saudi Arabia and Israel. Why is it needed for the U.S. to offer this level of concessions? Ellen Laipson, who directs international security at George Mason University in Virginia, points out that Biden has made diplomacy central to his presidency, but neither Israel nor Saudi Arabia appears to want strings attached to a deal. Israel and Saudi Arabia would be perfectly happy to get new commitments from the United States and it wouldnt affect their policies towards Russia and China very much. They would insist on their freedom of action, Laipson said. Observers say that if the United States helped Saudi Arabia on a nuclear program, it would draw the United States deeper into Middle East politics and heighten concerns that both Saudi Arabia and its foe Iran could acquire nuclear weapons. Pakistan's caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani confirmed Thursday that his government has decided to force out all Afghans and other foreign nationals living unlawfully in the country. The move will likely affect about 1 million Afghans, including those who took refuge in the country after the hard-line Taliban swept back to power in neighboring Afghanistan two years ago. The United Nations is alarmed by the plan because it could affect Afghans in need of international protection. Their lives or freedom would be in danger if they were forcefully repatriated, a U.N. official cautioned in background discussions with VOA. "The new policy approved by the cabinet does not pertain only to Afghans; it is about all those people from different countries who are illegally residing in Pakistan," Jilani told a news conference in Islamabad. He explained that officially registered Afghan refugees and those living lawfully would not be asked to leave Pakistan. "But those who have come here illegally, whether Afghans or nationals of any country, will have to go back to their respective countries. We will strictly implement the policy." The spokesperson for the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees in Islamabad told VOA that his agency was "seeking clarity" from Pakistani counterparts about the new policy. Qaiser Khan Afridi noted that Pakistan's role as a "generous refugee host for decades" has been acknowledged globally, but more needs to be done to match this generosity. "Any refugee return must be voluntary, without any pressure to ensure protection for those seeking safety," he said. "UNHCR stands ready to support Pakistan in developing a mechanism to manage and register people in need of international protection on its territory and respond to particular vulnerabilities," Afridi added. Until the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, Pakistan officially hosted nearly 2.7 million Afghans. That included 1.3 million registered refugees and 880,000 officially documented economic migrants; the rest were declared unlawful migrants. The Taliban takeover of Kabul triggered a fresh influx of refugees, bringing more than 700,000 Afghans to Pakistan. An estimated 200,000 have since flown to the United States and European countries under special resettlement programs for their services to U.S.-led international coalition forces, which all chaotically withdrew two years ago after almost two decades of presence in Afghanistan. Most of the remaining Afghans have either crossed the border into Pakistan unlawfully, or their visas have expired, according to Pakistani officials. The Taliban have imposed their strict interpretation of Islamic law in Afghanistan since regaining power, placing sweeping restrictions on women. Girls are not allowed to receive a secondary school or university education. Most female government employees have been ordered to stay home, and female aid workers are forbidden from joining humanitarian groups. Women cannot visit public places, such as parks, gyms and bathhouses, and undertaking long road trips requires the presence of a male guardian. The restrictions on women are a primary deterrent for Afghans sheltering in Pakistan particularly women and girls from returning to their homeland, according to displaced family members. On the sidelines of the 78th United Nations General Assembly in New York last week, Taiwan's Minister of Digital Affairs Audrey Tang delivered a speech at the Concordia Annual Summit on digital democracy and artificial intelligence. VOA spoke with Tang about how AI might help break through China's censorship and the challenges and opportunities the technology brings to global democracy. This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity. VOA: You mentioned the concept of AI governance in your speech. In addition to being applied to democratic countries, can this concept also be applied to totalitarian countries? Taiwan Minister of Digital Affairs Audrey Tang: From 2010 to 2012 and 2013, consultative democracy was also studied in some places in the CCP [Chinese Communist Party], but not at the central level. Later, including freedom of the press, assembly, association and expression, all aspects were restricted. If you look at the papers, there have been very few studies promoting consultative democracy through the internet in recent years. Conceptually and theoretically, if we look at the situation in 2000, it seemed possible. But if we look at the situation in recent years, there seems to be no research on this. Maybe the premise is freedom of the press, and people must fully understand what the truth is. Regardless of consultation or deliberation, this foundation is needed. If freedom of the press is deprived, it will not be easy to develop further. VOA: What do you think of the potential and limitations of artificial intelligence in China? Tang: Artificial intelligence technology can turn public information on the entire Internet into material. After the [open-source] model is successfully created, it can actually be saved on a USB flash drive. Anyone can run this model on a laptop or personal computer, which greatly challenges censorship. In the past, as long as a comprehensive totalitarian government guarded access to Google, Wikipedia or other websites, it would make it difficult for their people to get the truth. But now, as long as netizens can get the [open-source] language models on a flash drive ... they will no longer need an internet connection, and they can always find out what happened and when exactly did it happen. VOA: Former White House deputy national security adviser Matt Pottinger has proposed punching holes in China's Great Firewall. Is that possible? Tang: If the holes are temporary, they will be repaired once people find them. The language models I just mentioned dont mean that there needs to be holes continuously, but that if there is a certain way to send information in, there is no need to connect to the outside anymore. The bad use is that if a Trojan horse is sent in, there is no need to control the computer anymore, and it can conduct network attacks by itself. This is a bad use. But there is another use, which is to send in the truth, and after that, it can even tell the users in the interactive Q&A format, including showing contemporaneous photos and videos from the time. VOA: Does your upbringing and way of thinking help you with your current work? Tang: I am nonbinary not only in terms of gender but also in terms of ideology. Many people have to make choices, such as the left and the right [politically]. For me, they all coexist. I don't particularly feel I'm very close to or very far from half of the people because they are rightists or leftists. I don't think that way. Everyone is at the same distance. If I can't understand the ideas of a certain side, I will feel I'm not plural enough, and I should be in touch with them more. In the run-up to Taiwans highly competitive presidential and legislative elections in January 2024, China is exploiting doubts voters may have about the United States and its intentions toward Taiwan, according to political experts in the self-governing island that Beijing considers its territory. A report by the Information Operations Research Group, or IORG, that was updated Sunday found 84 examples of China promoting suspicion of the U.S. and its intentions in Taiwan over the past three years. The group believes the Chinese government and its state media are promoting the ideas, such as the U.S. is a fake friend to Taiwan, Washington will abandon Taiwan, and the elite of the two nations are colluding to exploit Taiwan. The IORG report, published Aug. 8, also says that Chinas narrative positions Beijing as the keeper of world order in the face of chaos sown by the U.S. The group is a civil society organization that, according to its website, "uses science and education to reduce information manipulation, advance understanding of the Mandarin information environment, facilitate reasonable public discourse, and strengthen Taiwans democratic resilience." The Jan. 13 vote comes as tensions escalate between the island of 24 million people and its neighboring superpower, China. Taiwan said that this month it has observed dozens of fighters, drones, bombers and other aircraft, as well as warships and the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong, operating nearby, according to Reuters. Zhu Fenglian, the spokeswoman of China's Taiwan Affairs Office, acknowledged the drills by the People's Liberation Army, saying at a regular briefing in Beijing on Wednesday, "The purpose is to resolutely combat the arrogance of Taiwan independence separatist forces and their actions to seek independence." Some in Taiwan have told VOA that these recent military incursions have increased their negative perception of the Chinese government. And U.S. President Joe Biden made clear last year that he would be willing to intervene to defend Taiwan if China were to invade. Chihhao Yu, co-director of the IORG, said in a seminar on Sept. 21, "We believe that the suspicion theories echo the Chinese Communist Partys [CCPs] other propaganda, and the combination of the two creates a world view for Chinese-speaking audiences that is in line with China's interests. For example, that the United States is a fake friend and will abandon Taiwan. Other CCP propaganda is meant to promote the good side of China. For example, that China is Taiwan's family and relative." Jaw-Nian Huang, assistant professor at the Graduate Institute of Development Studies at National Chengchi University, said the narratives against the U.S. often promote the perception that "the U.S. is an evil imperialist hegemony," in contrast with the illusion of China being "peaceful and non-hegemonic." Huang told VOA Mandarin, "The goal is to create opposition against the U.S. and to gain an advantage over the U.S. in the battlefield of Taiwans public opinion." Huang said that suspicion of the U.S. and trust in the U.S. coexist for many people in Taiwan, and the CCP may manipulate that contradiction to influence their votes. He said that voters in Taiwan who support the ruling Democratic Progressive Party tend to believe that the U.S. will send troops to help defend Taiwan and oppose the statement that deepening U.S.-Taiwan relations is dangerous to Taiwan. Huang added that voters aligned with the pro-Chinese Nationalist Party hold the opposite position and are softer on China. So, in theory, Huang said if Chinas manipulations can move voters into the pro-Beijing CNP camp, prospects for the DPP will dim. Analysts say that promoting suspicion of the U.S. is part of China's cognitive warfare in Taiwan. People in Taiwan are aware of how Beijing has quashed democracy in Hong Kong under the "one country, two systems" that is has promoted for the island, and even President Tsai Ing-wen has rejected it. Kuan-chen Lee, assistant research fellow in the Division of Chinese Politics, Military and Warfighting Concepts at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research, said that "peaceful reunification" is one of China's strategies with its cognitive warfare. China has promoted the notions that "unification is beneficial," "Taiwan's independence is a dead end," and "outsiders are unreliable." Creating suspicion of outsiders is designed to make people in Taiwan reject support from the U.S. and other international allies, according to Lee. He told VOA Mandarin, "The CCP wants to intervene in the elections, so they will use this opportunity to hype up the concept of war [forceful reunification] and peace [peaceful resolution]. In fact, the CCP has been using this binary concept to confuse the Taiwanese people: If you are afraid of war, then accept the peace [by surrender] that is humiliating to you." But mainstream public opinion in Taiwan isnt accepting the anti-U.S. messaging from Beijing. A Taiwan National Defense and Security poll released in August by the Institute for National Defense and Security Research found that about 57% of the respondents don't think U.S. military aid would push Taiwan into war. Republican presidential hopefuls take to the debate stage on Wednesday night in California. VOA is on the ground in Armenia. In what appears to be an international effort, an American soldier is freed from North Korea. Plus Women in Indian-Administered Kashmir are finding their voice. About 500 Wagner mercenaries who fought alongside Russian troops in Ukraine before fleeing to Belarus after a short-lived mutiny in June have now returned to the front lines to again fight Kyivs forces, a Ukrainian Army spokesman said Wednesday. Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin was killed in a plane crash in Russia last month, raising questions about the future of his forces. Some, possibly as many as 6,000, have been in Belarus for three months, while others had been deployed to Africa, where Wagner also has had ongoing operations. Now, about 500 of the Wagner troops have resumed fighting for Russia in Ukraine, Ilya Yevlash, the spokesman for Ukraines Eastern Grouping of Forces, told Ukrainian broadcaster RBC-Ukraine. He said the Russian Defense Ministry had renegotiated contracts with the returning mercenaries. These individuals are indeed among the most well-trained in the Russian army, but they will not become a game-changer, Yevlash said. Most of the Wagner forces that had previously fought in Ukraine had taken part in the brief mutiny but moved to Belarus under a deal the Belarusian leader, Alexander Lukashenko, negotiated with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Yevlash said the camps in Belarus are now being disbanded. The cause of the plane crash that killed Prigozhin and other Wagner leaders has not been determined but many Western officials believe it was Putins retribution for the uprising Prigozhin led, a troop movement toward Moscow that he abruptly called off. In the weeks that followed, Prigozhin met with Putin at the Kremlin and traveled freely in Russia before the plane crash. Russian accusations against US, Britain Russia Wednesday accused the United States and Britain of helping Ukraine carry out an attack last week against the headquarters Russian Black Sea fleet in Russia-occupied Crimea. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said at a briefing that the attack was planned in advance using Western intelligence means, NATO satellite assets, and reconnaissance planes. Zakharova also said U.S. and British intelligence helped coordinate the missile strike. While the U.S. and other Western partners have provided military equipment and training to Ukraine, U.S. officials have previously denied playing a direct role in Ukraines defense against the Russian invasion. When Russia accused the United States of being involved in a May drone attack on the Kremlin, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby called the claim ludicrous. A television channel run by Russias Defense Ministry broadcast undated video Wednesday showing Adm. Viktor Sokolov, the leader of Russias Black Sea fleet, saying the fleet was performing successfully. It was the second consecutive day in which video of Sokolov appeared on Russian television, following a Ukrainian claim that he was killed in the Crimea missile strike. Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. The many ways in which money is exchanged for access to people with political power in Washington will be in focus beginning Thursday, when the Republican-led House of Representatives is set to begin an investigation into President Joe Biden. The investigation, meant to seek evidence the president committed acts that might warrant impeaching him and removing him from office, will look closely at the activities of the presidents son, Hunter Biden. The younger Biden has a long history of entering into lucrative business deals with foreign companies, appearing in a number of instances to have traded on his familys name and his access to his father while earning millions of dollars in fees. Hunter Bidens business activities shine a light on a practice, common in Washington, of trading money for access. The capital is full of a small army of lobbyists and consultants who are often hired, at least in part, for their ability to get key figures in government to answer a phone call, take a meeting or appear at an event. While viewed as unseemly by many, the money-for-access trade has long been a feature of political life in Washington and is legally distinct from, for example, the crime of bribery. All too prevalent "Unfortunately, paying for access is a phenomenon that has long been too prevalent in Washington and has become even more so in recent years as laws have loosened, Noah Bookbinder, president of Washington-based Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, or CREW, told VOA in an email. Lobbying is based around access, and recent Supreme Court decisions have provided other legal avenues for paying for access," he said. "The court's campaign finance decisions starting with Citizens United have allowed for vast amounts of undisclosed money to flow into politics, often with a heightened version of the expectation of access that traditionally accompanies large campaign contributions. The Supreme Court has set the bar high for convicting a politician of accepting bribes. In 2014, former Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell was indicted and convicted on federal corruption charges. Prosecutors demonstrated that he and his wife had accepted $135,000 in gifts from businessman Jonnie Williams. They then showed that McDonnell subsequently set up meetings for Williams with state employees and arranged for him to meet with other government officials important to his companys prospects. The conviction was upheld by an appeals court. But in 2016, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously overturned it, ruling that McDonnells actions did not rise to the level of official acts. Writing for the court, Chief Justice John Roberts said, There is no doubt that this case is distasteful; it may be worse than that. But our concern is not with tawdry tales of Ferraris, Rolexes and ball gowns. It is instead with the broader legal implications of the government's boundless interpretation of the federal bribery statute. In the ruling, Roberts argued that if arranging meetings and doing other services for supporters and donors counts as bribery, officials might wonder whether they could respond to even the most commonplace requests for assistance. The court's decision in the McDonnell case essentially allowed cash and gifts in exchange for access to officials, which is a particularly distressing development, said Bookbinder. Impeachment investigation In the impeachment inquiry, House investigators, led by Representative James Comer, will be looking for evidence that President Biden, while serving as vice president from 2009 to 2017, took actions that benefited his sons business associates in a way that violated the public trust. Republicans, formally and informally, have been investigating Hunter Bidens activities for years, dating to at least 2019, when his father announced his candidacy for the Democratic presidential nomination the following year. Those investigations picked up speed when the Republicans took control of the House in 2022. To date, the inquiries have uncovered extensive foreign business dealings worth tens of millions of dollars by Hunter Biden and other members of the presidents family and their associates. They have also documented several occasions on which Hunter Biden was able to get clients into the same room with his father, or on phone calls with him. They have presented no evidence, though, that as vice president, Joe Biden took any official actions intended to benefit those clients, or that he personally received any of the money his relatives were paid. Article II, Section 4 of the U.S. Constitution holds that federal officials, including presidents, shall be removed from office on impeachment for, and conviction of, treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors. To the extent that the House Republicans have managed to articulate any theory of why they think President Biden might be impeachable it appears to be in the area of bribery, Frank O. Bowman III, professor emeritus at the University of Missouri School of Law, told VOA. However, while he said Hunter Bidens behavior has been disgraceful and somewhat shameless, it doesnt appear to rise to the level of bribery. Bowman, author of the book High Crimes and Misdemeanors: A History of Impeachment for the Age of Trump, said that while it is clear that a politician who takes official actions in exchange for payments to a member of his family can be charged with bribery, there is so far no evidence that this is what happened in the case at hand. A bribe, he said, first needs to include the demand for or promise of some sort of payment. Then, critically, you have to establish that the person who either got it or demanded it did something or offered to do something in his or her official capacity in return for the receipt. And at this point, of course, the Republicans have gotten none of that. Political proceeding It is important to note that impeachment hearings are not criminal trials, and the House of Representatives is not required to find that an official committed an actual crime to impeach that person. The phrase in the Constitutions impeachment clause, high crimes and misdemeanors, has long been understood to encompass violations of the public trust that are not specifically criminal in nature. It's quite clear that the Constitutions authors designed it to cover executive actions that, on their face, may be the use of an authorized executive power, but are done for illicit purposes, said Gary Schmitt, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. Schmitt told VOA, however, that past presidential impeachment investigations have historically been predicated on evidence that an impeachable act has been committed. In this case, he said, the investigation appears to be not in response to evidence of wrongdoing by President Biden, but rather a means of looking for such evidence in the first place. I can't remember an impeachment where [the House] began an impeachment inquiry without there being more direct evidence of potential wrongdoing, Schmitt said. Seoul should be ready to deal with threats beyond North Korea as Beijings belligerence toward Taiwan and Pyongyangs threats to South Korea keep growing, analysts said. South Koreas military readiness has long been directed to the north, as was displayed in a parade of its modern military hardware through Seoul on Tuesday to mark the 75th Armed Forces Day commemorating the founding of the countrys armed forces. The route marched through the main commercial and business district and ended at the Gwanghwamun area, which is the gate into the heart of Seoul. North Korea conducts military parades several times a year, but it was Seoul's first since 2013. Speaking at Seoul Air Base in Seongnam before the parade, President Yoon Suk Yeol said South Korea would bolster the countrys defense industry and warned North Korea its regime would be brought to an end by an overwhelming response if it used nuclear weapons. South Korea manufactures arms, such as the tanks, drones and ballistic missiles featured in the parade, to defend against its main adversary, North Korea. North Korea has been conducting a series of missile launches this year, including several intercontinental ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and satellites that failed to take off. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said at a key parliamentary meeting that the regime's "nuclear force-building policy has been made permanent as the basic law of the state," according to the country's state-run KCNA on Thursday. Kim also blamed the "triangular military alliance" among the U.S., South Korea and Japan for elevating threats by forming an "Asian-version NATO." Analysts say that while South Korea is taking a stronger military posture against North Korea, its defense strategies must also deal with threats from China, especially as a possibility exists for a two-front conflict initiated by the two autocratic states. South Korea absolutely should prepare to deal with threats beyond North Korea, said Markus Garlauskas, former national intelligence officer for North Korea on the National Intelligence Council at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. He's now director of the Indo-Pacific Initiative of the Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security at the Atlantic Council. Its clear from South Koreas defense white papers and its defense acquisitions that Seoul has already begun to prepare to deal with threats beyond North Korea, Garlauskas said. But Seoul has been understandably reluctant to be too explicit about what countries it finds threatening. However, this reluctance is slowly fading. China poses an increasingly clear threat to the security interests of South Korea, and I do expect that, over time, Seoul will be more willing to directly acknowledge and confront this threat." Garlauskas wrote in a paper published in August about the possibility of a two-front nuclear war breaking out in East Asia one initiated by a Chinese invasion of Taiwan and the other by a North Korean attack on the South. The U.S. and its allies can no longer think about conflicts with the PRC and North Korea in isolation from each other but must take urgent action to prepare for the possibility of facing limited nuclear attacks in an East Asia conflict scenario, he said in the paper. South Koreas defense white paper issued under the Yoon government in February described North Korea as its enemy for the first time in six years. It mentioned China in the context of its rivalry with the U.S. but did not specify Beijing as posing a direct threat. At the same time, however, Seoul said it aims to integrate defense forces and align its capabilities with countries that share its values to respond to complex security threats as the security environment is increasingly redefined by simultaneous and complex threats. In a joint statement that South Korea, the U.S. and Japan issued at the trilateral summit at Camp David in August, the three countries expressed concern about Chinas dangerous and aggressive moves to support its maritime claims and opposed any unilateral attempts to change the status quo in the Indo-Pacific. In a separate document, the three countries committed to consult in coordinating their responses to what they consider threats affecting our collective interests and security, without defining the limits of threats. Leaving open the kinds of threats in the commitment-to-consult pledge South Korea made with the U.S. and Japan broadened the boundaries of threats beyond North Korea to which Seoul could respond upon consultations, analysts said. The commitment-to-consult pledge acknowledges that Japan and Korea face common threats, especially but not exclusively from North Korea, said Ralph Cossa, president emeritus and WSD-Handa chair in peace studies at the Pacific Forum. James Przystup, senior fellow at Hudson Institutes Japan Chair focusing on alliance management in the Indo-Pacific, said, The commitment to consult with respect to threats affecting our collective interest and security does broaden potential actions on the part of the ROK but does not require any action beyond consultations. He continued, The Camp David statement represents the continuing evolution of ROKs strategic thinking with respect to China and alignment with the U.S. and Japan. Some analysts said a possible invasion of Taiwan by China would be likely to change South Koreas defense against North Korea because military assets of U.S. Forces Korea could be redirected to defend the island. Taiwan has been governed independently of China since 1949. Beijing views the self-governing island as its own territory. Tensions between Taipei and Beijing are increasing, and Taiwan said China has sent dozens of fighter jets, bombers and warships near its waters and airspace in recent weeks that are getting out of hand. As soon as the U.S. diverts some of its resources that would otherwise go to South Korea in defense of the North, South Korean defense is weakened regardless of whether any South Korean forces go, said Bruce Bennett, a senior defense analyst at the Rand Corporation. He said that if the U.S. begins to deploy its forces to defend Taiwan, China is likely to attack U.S. military bases, especially the ones in southern Japan, like the Kadena Air Base. Bennett added, The very first attack on those bases could cause the mutual defense treaty of South Korea and the U.S. to be invoked, because the mutual defense treaty says that if the either side is attacked, the other side will take actions necessary to support its ally once the ally decides to act. Cossa, a member of the ASEAN Regional Forum Experts and Eminent Persons Group, said, One major concern the U.S. should have in the event of a Taiwan conflict is North Korea opening up a second front and the reverse is also true if in the event of a Korea conflict. As a result," he said, "a strong defensive posture would need to be maintained on the peninsula, perhaps augmented by others who are part of the U.N. Command. In August, as Yoon met with key U.N. Command officials, he said North Korea considers the UNC "the biggest barrier" to unifying the Korean Peninsula under its communist rule. At least six people were killed and more than 10 injured in a car bombing Thursday in the central Hirshabelle state in Somalia, according to officials. The perpetrator targeted a busy meat market in Bulobarde town, some 220 kilometers north of Mogadishu. Saadaam Cabdi Iidow, the towns mayor, said the suicide bomber came under fire from security forces before reaching his goal but detonated explosives near a police checkpoint. About six people were killed and more than 10 others injured, including children and members of the security forces. The blast destroyed an entire business area and some residential buildings, Iidow said. The checkpoint is near a meat market. Meanwhile, security forces prevented double suicide car bomb attacks targeting Dhusamareb, a town some 280 kilometers to the north, killing the drivers of two vehicles loaded with explosives, officials said. Dhusamareb District Commissioner Abdirahman Ali Ahmed told VOA that the security forces had been tipped off about the vehicles carrying explosives and were ready to fend them off. The security forces were waiting when the first car tried to enter the town around 5:30 a.m. local time. They forcibly stopped it with heavy machine guns and then it went off. The terrorist driver died on the spot. The second car bomb tried to enter the town 10 minutes after the first one, and our forces foiled it, killing the driver, Ahmed said. Both Bulobarde and Dhusamareb are important and strategic towns that have been the focal point of efforts to mobilize the local population against al-Shabab amid an ongoing Somali military campaign to defeat militants who followed Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamuds declaration of a total war against the al-Qaida-linked militants shortly after being elected last year. Thursdays blast comes days after an explosives-laden vehicle detonated at a security checkpoint in the central Somalia city of Beledweyne, killing at least 18. Al-Shabab has threatened violence against clans mobilizing against them in the past. Abdiaziz Barrow and Abdiwahid Isaq contributed to this report. In cities and villages across Afghanistan, men with no formal legal training but with membership in the Taliban and a rudimentary grasp of 8th-century Islamic jurisprudence wield unprecedented power over the fate of defendants and the resolution of civil disputes. Under this summary judicial system, most cases are resolved swiftly, often receiving a verdict on the very first appearance before a tribunal. Plaintiffs and defendants make brief presentations, and a judgment is rendered. Even in the most serious criminal cases, the absence of prosecutors investigating and presenting the facts to a jury or court means that thorough judgments are a rarity. The Taliban dismantled Afghanistan's attorney-general office in 2021, deeming it an unnecessary bureaucratic appendage that fostered corruption and inefficiency. Under the new system, every aspect from assigning cases to charging and sentencing must be carried out in the presence of a judge without the involvement of public prosecutors, according to Abdul Malik Haqqani, the Taliban's deputy chief justice. "A judge cannot base his decision on a prosecutor's investigations. This is our Sharia principles," Haqqani told a local television channel this week. Farid Hamidi, Afghanistan's former attorney-general who now lives in the United States, described the dissolution of the attorney-general's office as a mortal blow to justice in the country. "A prosecutor's only job is to help judges have all the facts before issuing a verdict on a case," Hamidi told VOA. "This is a widely accept principle all over the world, which aims to ensure only justice is served." When the Taliban seized power in 2021, they not only dismantled the attorney-general's office but persecuted former prosecutors who had previously built criminal cases against thousands of Taliban insurgents. Thousands of prisoners the Taliban set free from jails across Afghanistan in 2021 have sought to carry out reprisals against prosecutors and judges resulting in the killings of more than a dozen former prosecutors, the U.N. human rights body reported in January. Speed What sets the Taliban's justice system apart is its speed. Unburdened by bureaucratic red tape, Taliban judges have resolved more than 200,000 cases in the past two years, including thousands that had been backlogged in the previous government's judiciary. However, critics argue that expeditious verdicts should not come at the cost of true justice. "They are sacrificing justice for speed," said Hamidi. Afghans, who often complained about the sluggishness and bureaucracy of the former government's courts, have praised the Taliban's swift justice. "Sometimes justice delayed is justice denied and sometimes it is most important to move incrementally and achieve a result based on better information," Neal Davins, a professor of law at William & Mary Law School, told VOA. The United Nations and human rights bodies have denounced the Taliban's criminal justice system as brutally harsh. While the Taliban defend public displays of corporal punishment as consistent with Islamic law, the U.N. deems them inhumane and violations of international conventions against torture. The Taliban also claim effective enforcement of court orders, contrasting it with the reported shortcomings of the former Afghan government in implementing justice over powerful individuals. In a bizarre event in November 2015, Khalilullah Ferozi, a banker sentenced to jail for financial crimes, walked out of his cell to sign a multi-million-dollar real estate contract with the Ministry of Urban Development. In another widely reported incident in November 2016, a former vice president who was accused of detaining and sexually assaulting a tribal rival in Kabul brazenly bore no legal or penal responsibility. Absolute monarchy The Taliban have suspended Afghanistan's constitution guaranteeing the political and administrative independence of the judiciary. There is also no written document stipulating the appointment of judges, their authorities and judicial accountability. "We are only accountable to our leadermatters related to authorities of Sultan and King are referred to our leader," said Haqqani, the deputy chief justice. There is no limit to powers of the mysterious Taliban leader. That the judiciary is accountable only to the Sultan, according to Haqqani, is a testament to its independence from both internal and external interventions. For decades, the Taliban fought the previous Afghan government, accusing it of being a puppet regime serving foreign interests. While they claim total independence in the way they now govern Afghanistan, the Taliban have widely been reported as a proxy of the Pakistani military accusations both Pakistan and the Taliban reject. "The powers and limits of every public institution must be enshrined in a public document or a constitution. Without that the independence of judiciary has no actual meaning," contended Hamidi. The absence of written laws has left judicial verdicts open to varying interpretations of broad Islamic rules. That legal ambiguity has led to serious human rights violations, such as the indefinite detention and torture of individuals without specified charges or the right to a court hearing. The Taliban's intelligence agency, for instance, has indefinitely detained and tortured individuals on charges not specified in any law without giving detainees a right to a court hearing, according to independent human rights organizations. Matiullah Weesa, an activist for girls' education, has been languishing in Taliban detention for about six months without charges. Backed by the United States, the former Afghan government had a progressive constitution, which, although symbolic and marred by allegations of violations, sought to distribute power democratically with equal rights for all citizens, regardless of gender. "A constitution is only as good as the people who interpret/enforce it. It typically serves a useful purpose in constraining government and protecting individual rights but only if it is treated with respect," said Davins. Like other parts of the Taliban's government, women are excluded from work at the judiciary and there are not any female judges to address disputes among female plaintiffs and defendants. Called the world's only gender-apartheid regime, the Taliban definitely claim they have given Afghanistan a better justice system than the one built with large international support. A Thai court Thursday found four national park officers not guilty of abducting and murdering an Indigenous rights activist who disappeared nine years ago while aiding a lawsuit against park officials. Porlajee "Billy" Rakchongcharoen was detained by then-Kaeng Krachan National Park chief Chaiwat Limlikit-aksorn on April 17, 2014, allegedly for illegally harvesting wild honey. Chaiwat and three subordinates are the last people known to have seen Porlajee alive. All four say the activist was released the same day and deny any wrongdoing. At the time, Porlajee was assisting a group of ethnic minority Karen villagers with a lawsuit against Chaiwat and other officials for their alleged roles in burning down the homes of over 20 families living inside the park in 2011. Porlajee, a fellow Karen, had been helping coordinate their legal challenge, interpreting between Karen and Thai, and preparing to petition the king on the villagers' behalf. Rights groups say he may also have been carrying documents related to the lawsuit when he was detained. In Thursday's verdict, the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct said there was not enough evidence to convict the accused of Porlajee's abduction or murder, or to even prove that he was dead, questioning the DNA evidence from collected bone shards. But the court did convict Chaiwat of malfeasance and for not reporting Porlajee's detention to police. He was sentenced to three years in jail. The other officers Bunthaen Butsarakham, Thanaset Chaemthet and Kritsanaphong Chitthet were acquitted on all counts. Porlajee's wife, Pinnapa Prueksapan, said the verdict left her feeling confused and drained. "I did not get the justice that I deserve. I've been fighting this case for nine years, almost 10, and now I feel empty. And I think the courts in Thailand are not very fair," Pinnapa said. "I don't want revenge. I just want them to be held responsible for what they did," she said. "I just want to know how Billy was killed." Pinnapa said she had not yet decided whether to pursue an appeal. Rights groups said the verdict dashed hopes of bringing closure to the long-running saga. "Even after nine years, there's still no justice for the victim. And [in] today's verdict ... the court didn't even confirm they're the remains of Billy. So, it's almost like we're back to square one," Sanhawan Srisod, a legal adviser for the International Commission of Jurists in Thailand, told VOA. "It constitutes another failure to hold accountable [the] perpetrators for a serious human rights crime like ... murder," she added. The case had taken a tortured route on its way to Thursday's verdict. The accused were first charged with murder in 2019, five years after Porlajee disappeared, when police divers found bone shards inside an oil drum at the bottom of a flooded reservoir in the park. After matching samples from the fragments with the DNA of Porlajee's mother, the Justice Ministry's Department of Special Investigations concluded that the bones were likely those of the missing activist. Within months, though, public prosecutors dropped the charges, citing a lack of evidence from the DNA tests. The DSI appealed to the Office of the Attorney General, which reconsidered the evidence in 2022 and decided to indict the men again on five counts, including murder and abduction. The four accused remained free on bail throughout. Chaiwat was at first fired for his alleged role in razing the villagers' homes but was later reinstated and promoted to head of Thailand's Office of National Parks. Thursday's verdict was not only "disappointing," said Chanatip Tatiyakaroonwong, Thailand researcher for Amnesty International, but "sends a message that there is still impunity for officials who commit this kind of crime." A United Nations working group on enforced and involuntary disappearance has logged nearly 900 outstanding cases across Southeast Asia since 1980, most of them in the Philippines and Indonesia, followed by Thailand. Rights groups say they believe the true number is much higher, as friends and families of victims often keep quiet out of fear. Trials of suspected authorities, meanwhile, are as rare as cases are common, said Pornpen Khongkachonkiet, director of the Cross Cultural Foundation, the Thai rights group representing Porlajee's family in court. Of the more than 90 cases recorded by the United Nations working group in Thailand, Pornpen said she knew of only one other case involving officials that went to trial. In that case in 2004, five police officers initially convicted of the robbery and coercion of human rights lawyer Somchai Neelapaijit were acquitted on appeal. Getting cases like theirs to trial has been "almost impossible," she told VOA. "Thai law has only [been] taking murder cases as a serious crime. Then they start investigating. So, when we report [someone] missing, they did not register the case easily," she said, especially when authorities are accused of being involved. Rights groups are hoping for more success now that Thailand, as of this year, has a law to prosecute cases of torture and enforced disappearances, specifically. "This type of heinous crime [will] continue to happen around the region and go unpunished unless we have stronger regional collaboration to investigate cases of abductions and enforced disappearances, and hold perpetrators to account in line with international law," Chanatip said. Lawmakers in Thailands Move Forward Party say they will be a serious parliamentary opposition force despite being blocked from leading the government and losing their party leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, to a legal charge. And they insist that the long-term tug of war for greater democracy is theirs to be won. The party earned 14 million votes in a May election in a country fed up with the army-backed conservatives who ran politics and the economy since a 2014 coup. Despite emerging as the largest party in parliament, the MFP was forced to become the opposition after the Senate, appointed by the army under a military-written constitution, blocked Pita from becoming prime minister. Pita was suspended from parliament after being accused of breaching laws for political office holders because he owned shares in a long defunct media company. He resigned as party leader earlier this month, joining several party figureheads on the sidelines because a court bans them from engaging in politics or other legal activity. Pita says he will return to frontline politics if he beats the case against him - but if he is convicted he could face a jail sentence and a long ban from politics. Party strategist Chaitawat Tulathon will be caretaker leader until Pitas legal fate is clear. At a party meeting September 24 to regroup and launch Chaitawats leadership, MFP lawmakers said their task as the opposition was to vigorously represent the millions who voted for them. On the one hand we have a democratic system thats becoming less and less democratic, Parit Wacharasindhu, a Move Forward Party spokesperson, told VOA. On the other we have a society that is becoming increasingly progressive, increasingly aware [and] demanding of democracy. So in a sense it is a tug-of-war between a regressive system and a progressive society. From the opposition, the party can challenge the government to rewrite the constitution which allowed the appointed senators to block the election-winning party from power, he added. Thailands current prime minister is former real estate tycoon Srettha Thavisin, of the Pheu Thai Party, which campaigned on an anti-army platform. But it suffered its worst ever poll performance and has jumped into government with a coalition that includes politicians from the last military-aligned government. Speaking on September 22 to the U.N. General Assembly in New York, he insisted he had the mandate of the people to strengthen democracy, institutions and values in Thailand. On the same day the Senate voted to make Srettha prime minster, the partys billionaire patron, Thaksin Shinawatra, returned to Thailand from a long self-exile. He quickly had an 8-year jail sentence commuted by the king to just one year, in what experts say was a deal by the establishment to allow Thaksin back to preserve the status quo in a conservative-leaning government. Srettha is banking on populist economic policies including debt relief to farmers and a $275 handout to everyone over 16 years old to refresh the partys fortunes and establish his own agenda. But Pheu Thais pivot to a conservative alliance has handed leadership of Thailands pro-democracy agenda to Move Forward. Im dreaming of the day that we are all equal and I think MFP can take us there, said Nannapas Chanthasit, a 19-year-old student who has just taken up party membership. Ive constantly fooled myself that maybe next year it will be our time but the conservatives just keep clinging onto power. MFP wants to see the military out from power for good, a restructuring of an economy dominated by monopoly businesses and the amendment of the royal defamation law which carries jail terms for insulting the monarchy. Arnon Nampha, a leader of pro-democracy demonstrations which have rattled the establishment in recent years, was sentenced this week to four years in jail under that law, the latest of dozens of convicted activists. Move Forward also faces the threat of court dissolution for breaching a constitutional guarantee to defend the monarchy. Dissolution could spark protests, which could distract Srettha from his focus on the economy, experts say. But we can never be certain what the establishment's plan is for MFP, said Khemthong Tonsakulrungruang, a political scientist at Bangkoks Chulalongkorn University. So far it's Pita and the party but other members may face different charges later. Attempts to substantially amend the constitution may also fall flat, he added, especially if Pheu Thai drags its feet to appease its conservative allies. Move Forward can, however, boost its popularity gradually if they perform as an opposition by scrutinizing the government, he said. Three people are confirmed dead after a gunman shot into a classroom at a university hospital campus and a nearby house Thursday in the Dutch port city of Rotterdam. The suspect, a 32-year-old university student, killed a 39-year-old woman who lived in his neighborhood and seriously injured her 14-year-old daughter. The girl later died in the hospital, according to Dutch police. The suspect then set a fire to their house before going to the Erasmus University Medical Center, where he fatally shot a 46-year-old teacher inside a classroom. He also set a fire at the hospital after the fatal shooting. Police haven't released the names of the victims and the suspect. Police instructed students, staff and patients to run out of the hospital building. Those who were unable to leave barricaded themselves in their rooms and posted notes on their windows showing their locations. The suspect, who reportedly was a student at Erasmus and had been known to Dutch law enforcement, was arrested outside the hospital. "In 2021, he was prosecuted and convicted for animal abuse," said Hugo Hillenaar, Rotterdam's chief prosecutor. The motive for the shooting was not yet known, though the suspect was reportedly cooperating with police. Several explosions have been reported around Rotterdam and have been tied to rival drug gangs. There was currently no evidence linking the fatal shootings to the explosions. Some information for this report came from The Associated Press and Reuters. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said Thursday that Ukrainian forces are gradually gaining ground in the face of fierce fighting and that he is constantly urging allies to provide more aid, boost defense production and speed up arms deliveries to Ukraine. The stronger Ukraine becomes, the closer we come to ending Russias aggression, Stoltenberg told reporters in Kyiv. Speaking alongside President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Stoltenberg said NATO has framework contracts in place for $2.5 billion in key ammunition for Ukraine. Stoltenberg said it is in NATOs security interest to provide Ukraine with what it needs to win the war. In the United States, as the federal government prepares for a possible shutdown, the country's aid in the Ukrainian war effort could falter, according to Pentagon deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh. Those affected by the shutdown would include Pentagon civilians involved in English-language training for Ukraine's F-16 pilots, so if there is a government shutdown, "there could be impacts to training," Singh said. "At this point right now, I just don't have more specific details to offer." France has pledged its continued support of Ukraine, and the two countries have been in talks to maintain the continuous securing of arms for Kyiv. "Dozens of projects have either been launched or are under discussion, aimed at organizing joint production of new weapons or maintenance of weapons already with us," Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov told a news conference alongside his French counterpart, Sebastien Lecornu. "[France will] continue to help Ukraine as much as is necessary," Lecornu said. No specific details were given on the arms Paris intends to send to Kyiv. Ukraines military said Thursday that its air defenses had downed 34 of 44 Shahed drones that Russia used to attack the country overnight. The areas targeted in the attack included Mykolaiv, Odesa and Kirovohrad. Oleh Kiper, the regional governor of Odesa, said on Telegram there were no casualties there. He said there was no destruction, only a few small grass fires from falling debris. Zelenskyy said in his nightly address Wednesday that his countrys fighters need more means of destroying Russian missiles, Shaheds and other combat drones, as well as Russian aircraft. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to everyone in the world who is already helping and is willing to ramp up assistance to our country with the means that can provide more protection against Russian terror. Wagner fighters About 500 Wagner mercenaries who fought alongside Russian troops in Ukraine before fleeing to Belarus after a short-lived mutiny in June have now returned to the front lines to again fight Kyivs forces, a Ukrainian Army spokesman said Wednesday. Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin was killed in a plane crash in Russia last month, raising questions about the future of his forces. Some, possibly as many as 6,000, have been in Belarus for three months, while others had been deployed to Africa, where Wagner also has had ongoing operations. Now, about 500 of the Wagner troops have resumed fighting for Russia in Ukraine, Ilya Yevlash, the spokesman for Ukraines Eastern Grouping of Forces, told Ukrainian broadcaster RBC-Ukraine. He said the Russian Defense Ministry had renegotiated contracts with the returning mercenaries. These individuals are indeed among the most well-trained in the Russian army, but they will not become a game-changer, Yevlash said. Most of the Wagner forces that had previously fought in Ukraine had taken part in the brief mutiny but moved to Belarus under a deal the Belarusian leader, Alexander Lukashenko, negotiated with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Yevlash said the camps in Belarus are now being disbanded. The cause of the plane crash that killed Prigozhin and other Wagner leaders has not been determined but many Western officials believe it was Putins retribution for the uprising Prigozhin led, a troop movement toward Moscow that he abruptly called off. In the weeks that followed, Prigozhin met with Putin at the Kremlin and traveled freely in Russia before the plane crash. Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. TORONTO, September 28, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, Breast Cancer Canada (BCC), a national charity dedicated to saving lives through breast cancer research, released new data that highlights Canadian perspectives on breast cancer screening and the need for diverse, lived experiences in research. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928740701/en/ Parminder Punia with her 21-year-old daughter Anjali. (Photo: Breast Cancer Canada) The survey, conducted among members of the Angus Reid Forum, found that there is a significant national demand for earlier routine breast cancer screening. Also identified is a need for more race-based data and a willingness among Canadians to share their experiences to improve patient outcomes. Key Findings Lowering the age for routine breast cancer screening 89 per cent of Canadians believe routine breast cancer screening should begin before the age of 50. Gathering Race-Based Data Canada does not routinely track race-based data around breast cancer screening rates, however studies in the U.S. have found black people have clear, poorer outcomes when it comes to breast cancer, especially young black women. 1 BCCs study found that 79 per cent of Canadians believe that Canada should prioritize gathering race-based data on cancer screening rates to address a lack of information on racial disparities. Canadians Desire to Help Future Patients Four-in-five Canadians (80 per cent) wish their experiences with health challenges could inform research on improving health outcomes for others. The Patient Impact of Earlier Routine Screening Parminder Punia of Brampton has heard the words "you have breast cancer," and knows what it's like to have her life changed forever. In August 2021, at the age of 46, Parminder felt a lump in her right breast. After weeks of exploration and tests, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Story continues If routine screening was accessible to Parminder beginning at age 40, her breast cancer could have been caught earlier, before the disease had the opportunity to advance. Parminder is passionate about advocating for better breast cancer screening for women in Canada, especially those with a family history of the disease, like her daughter. "Unfortunately my cancer was more developed and had spread to my lymph nodes. It was a diagnosis that I never expected. It turned my world upside down, said Parminder Punia. I cant stress the importance of routine mammograms enough. Screening detects breast cancer in its very early stages, ahead of a lump or any other symptoms present." 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.2 Treatments for breast cancer are more effective and are better tolerated when started early.3 PROgress Tracker Breast Cancer Registry Amidst this new report highlighting the need for more patient data, BCC announced the launch of PROgress Tracker Breast Cancer Registry (PROgress Tracker), a national, first-of-its-kind knowledge registry that will collect experiences over the next 10 years from people with breast cancer. The intention is to use the data to inform policy and future breast cancer management. BCC is now accepting participants who have or have had any stage of breast cancer, at any time during their journey, to register in PROgress Tracker and share their experiences by completing surveys that will provide missing data needed to advance progress in breast cancer management. PROgress Tracker empowers people with breast cancer to self-report diagnosis, treatment and long-term impacts. This information is segmented based on their breast cancer type, age, ethnicity and geographic location. By tracking those diagnosed with breast cancer before the standard screening age, the data will show the complexity of treatment and long-term effects as a result of later diagnosis. Researchers can then use this data to identify gaps with the goal of improving breast cancer care. "Canadians are asking for more breast cancer data, and there is a clear need to address the lack of information available. Through a patient-centered approach, PROgress Tracker will guide the development of new interventions that will directly impact breast cancer care, whether it is starting routine mammograms at an earlier age or potentially shortening the number of radiation treatments in ones journey," said Kimberly Carson, Breast Cancer Canada CEO. "Through our mission to Know More, Breast Cancer Canada is proud to introduce Canada's largest cancer PROs research initiative, and we are excited to have Canadians participate from any postal code." PROgress Tracker aims to uncover the breast cancer experience directly from the best source - the patient. Nationally and locally, PROgress Tracker can alert researchers and cancer programs to lived-experienced insights in an accessible way. Groups such as researchers, oncologists, cancer programs and corporations will be able to request anonymous data from the registry for analysis of clinical symptoms and side effects over time. This registry will be active for 20 years and data will live in perpetuity with real-time analysis and updates to advance timely research and care. Dr. Omar Khan, a Medical Oncologist specializing in breast cancer at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre in Calgary, Alberta, is one of the principal investigators of PROgress Tracker. His research focuses on using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve outcomes for patients with cancer, and he has helped develop the PROgress Tracker registry to help elevate the patient voice. "To truly understand how to drive change in health systems to improve the lives of patients, we must also listen to their voices," stated Dr. Khan. "Having a robust data registry allowing us to follow the lived experiences of patients throughout all aspects of their breast cancer journey, and combining this with evolving technologies and AI is key to unlocking the full potential of precision medicine. Thanks to Breast Cancer Canada's leadership, we will be able to better put our patients first when exploring new ways of collecting and analyzing data." To learn more and participate in PROgress Tracker, please visit progresstracker.ca. These are the findings of a survey conducted by Breast Cancer Canada from August 4th to August 8th, 2023 among a representative sample of 1,510 online Canadians who are members of the Angus Reid Forum. The survey was conducted in English and French. For comparison purposes only, a probability sample of this size would carry a margin of error of +/-2.5 percentage points, 19 times out of 20. ABOUT BREAST CANCER CANADA Breast Cancer Canada is a national charity dedicated to saving lives through breast cancer research. With a focus on precision oncology (personalized care), it is the only national breast cancer organization in Canada that has a clear mandate to raise money for research. The organization receives no government funding, meaning all research is funded through the generosity of donors. For more information visit, breastcancerprogress.ca. ABOUT ANGUS REID Angus Reid Group is Canadas most well-known and respected name in opinion polling and market research data. Offering a variety of research solutions to businesses, brands, governments, not-for-profit organizations, and more, the Angus Reid Group team connects technologies and people to derive powerful insights that inform your decisions. 1 "Ensuring equitable access to cancer care for Black patients in Canada," Canadian Medical Association Journal, October 24, 2022. 2 "Breast cancer in Canada." Government of Canada, March 17, 2021. 3 "Breast Cancer," World Health Organization, July 12, 2023. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928740701/en/ Contacts MEDIA Lindsay Silverberg Senior Account Manager lindsay@talkshopmedia.com The United States on Thursday imposed sanctions on an ousted Sudanese politician and two companies, one of which is based in Russia, accusing them of intensifying instability and opposing democracy in the North African country. These are the latest attempts by Washington to hold Islamist militants accountable for the war that broke out last April after Sudans army tried unsuccessfully to disband the Rapid Support Forces, or RSF, in a democratic transition of power. RSF is a paramilitary organization beholden to Omar al-Bashir, the long-reigning despot who was brought down in a popular revolt four years ago. In Thursdays announcement, U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken singled out Ali Karti, a one-time foreign minister who after al-Bashir fell from power rose in the ranks to Secretary General of the Sudanese Islamic Movement, an extremist outfit battling against the nations new democracy. Karti is a key player among those who were in Bashirs inner party. After a military coup in 2021 involving RSF, Kartis Islamist party has reestablished some of its power. Blinken also aimed sanctions at the Sudan-based GSK Advance Company and Aviatrade, a Russian weapons supplier. U.S. intelligence says Aviatrade has helped GSK provide military drones and training to RSF. We will continue to target actors perpetuating this conflict for personal gain, Brian Nelson, the Treasury Departments undersecretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, said in a statement. Some information for this report was provided by Reuters. A Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives investigative committee on Thursday opened an impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden, with the panels chairman saying Americans deserve to know whether the president personally benefited from $20 million his son Hunter was paid in overseas business deals. In opening remarks, House Oversight Committee chairman James Comer alleged that nine Biden family members got cash from Hunter Bidens deals in Ukraine and China from 2014 to 2019. What were the Bidens selling? Comer asked. Americans demand accountability for this culture of corruption. But Comer did not directly accuse President Biden of wrongdoing, and the president has said that he was not connected to his sons overseas deals and did not profit from them. Weeks ago, Biden laughed off the suggestion that his bank account was boosted by funds from his son, saying, Wheres the money? But evidence has emerged that the 53-year-old presidential offspring often called his father from restaurants while he was dining with business associates, perhaps to impress them of his familys political power in Washington. However, Devon Archer, a Hunter Biden associate, testified that the Biden-to-Biden long-distance chats centered on the weather or the geography of far-flung locales where he and his business partners were eating, not business transactions. Representative Jamie Raskin, the lead Democrat on the investigative panel, said at the outset of the Republican probe, Theres not a shred of evidence against President Biden. Ahead of the hearing, Comer said the investigative panel would present evidence uncovered to date and hear from legal and financial experts about crimes the Bidens may have committed. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters earlier this month that the Republican impeachment push is a baseless inquiry that the House Republicans cant even really defend themselves. The evidence does not exist, and this is a political stunt, Jean-Pierre said. Some Democrats have said the inquiry is payback for two House impeachments against former President Donald Trump, although the Senate then twice acquitted him. Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy launched the impeachment inquiry this month with a focus on the foreign business dealings of Hunter Biden. McCarthy unilaterally ordered the inquiry, but lacking the votes for approval, did not seek a vote from the full House of Representatives to open the probe. A U.S. government shutdown is looking inevitable for Sunday as the Senate and House of Representatives remain at odds over the size of its budget for the next 12 months, continued aid for Ukraine to fight Russia, immigration controls at the U.S.-Mexican border and social welfare programs to help impoverished Americans. The Democratic-controlled Senate is working on a seven-week funding plan that would keep the government fully open through mid-November to give lawmakers more time to set spending levels through September 2024. However, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, with a narrow Republican majority in his chamber, has already rejected putting the Senate plan to a House vote. Instead, the House voted late Thursday on amendments to yearlong appropriations bills for four government agencies. The bills have little chance of Senate approval and, in any event, would not prevent a Saturday midnight shutdown of nonessential government operations. Government agencies on Thursday morning began notifying their workers that a shutdown could be in the offing. Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell warned lawmakers about the dire effects of shutting down part of the government, especially difficulties in controlling the influx of migrants at the countrys southern border with Mexico. Shutting down the government is not like pressing pause, McConnell said. Its not an interlude that lets us pick up where we left off. Its an actively harmful proposition. And instead of producing any meaningful policy outcomes, it would actually take the important progress being made on a number of key issues and drag it backward. If a short-term funding deal cannot be reached, more than 4 million U.S. military service personnel and government workers would not be paid, although essential services, such as air traffic control outlets and official border entry points would still be staffed. Pensioners might not get their monthly government payments on time to pay bills and buy groceries, and national parks could be closed. Such shutdowns have occurred four times in the last decade in the U.S., but often have lasted just a day or two until lawmakers reach a compromise to fully restart government operations. But one shutdown that occurred during the administration of former President Donald Trump lasted 35 days as he unsuccessfully sought funding to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexican border. As thousands of migrants are again walking daily across the southwestern U.S. border, immigration controls remain as one of the sticking points in setting the U.S. government spending levels and policies for the fiscal year that begins Sunday. McCarthy reached a deal in May with President Joe Biden, a Democrat, on spending levels for fiscal 2024, but a small faction of far-right House Republicans rejected the deal and now is demanding further spending cuts. The McCarthy-Biden deal called for $1.59 trillion in discretionary spending in fiscal 2024, but some of the right-wing members of the House Freedom Caucus are demanding another $120 billion in cuts and further border controls. The cuts would be a relatively small portion of the overall $6.4 trillion U.S. budget and would not affect pension payments or government-provided health insurance for older Americans. Some of the most conservative lawmakers also want to sharply pare or end U.S. aid to Ukraine, even as more mainstream Republican lawmakers still staunchly support the Ukraine fight against Russias invasion as essential to U.S. national security and protection of NATO countries in Europe. The Senates short-term spending plan through mid-November could possibly win passage in the House, but only with a mix of Republican and Democratic votes. In politically contentious Washington, the hardline Republican lawmakers intent on cutting spending have threatened to try to oust McCarthy from his speakership if he tries to pass a spending bill with any Democratic votes. The Washington Post reported Thursday that, according to anonymous sources, a group of far-right House Republicans is scheming to remove McCarthy as House speaker as soon as next week and replacing him with one of his allies, Rep. Tom Emmer of Minnesota. The Post said it is not clear whether the group will actually go forward with their plan or if the politicians will instead just use their plan to express their displeasure with McCarthy. Either way, such a move would undoubtedly add even more confusion to the talks on Capitol Hill amid the possibility of a government shutdown. Biden told a group of donors at a fundraiser in San Francisco on Wednesday, I think that the speaker is making a choice between [retaining] the speakership and American interests." McCarthy suggested Tuesday that a shutdown could be avoided if Biden would negotiate on border issues. "Call us up, let's sit down and get this done before the end of the day," McCarthy said. But Trump, the leading 2024 Republican presidential candidate to run against Biden as he seeks reelection, has taken to social media to push his congressional allies toward a shutdown. The United States and Iran are denying reports that the two sides are engaged in secret negotiations following a prisoner exchange deal earlier this month that included the unlocking of billions of dollars of frozen Iranian funds. There are no direct or indirect talks scheduled, including any involving Brett McGurk, White House coordinator for the Middle East and North Africa, a U.S. official told VOA on Wednesday. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss national security matters. The Iranian Foreign Ministry on Tuesday dismissed a report by a U.K.-based media outlet that authorities in Tehran had granted its negotiators permission to enter direct talks with Washington to ease sanctions in return for Iran slowing down its uranium enrichment program. "This type of news sensationalism and media games, which is often used to create a political atmosphere, lacks credibility," the ministry said, as reported by Iranian state media. However, Washington appears to be leaving open its door to negotiations. "We have always said that we are open to diplomacy with Iran. I dont want to get into what any such talks might or might not look like, but diplomacy, we believe, is the best path to preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon," State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in response to VOAs question on whether the U.S. would be willing to engage in direct talks with Iran. There are a number of de-escalatory steps the U.S. wants Iran to take before talks, Miller added, including cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency. Meanwhile, Senator Ted Cruz, a Republican member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, is demanding disciplinary action on current administration officials, including those linked to Robert Malley, President Joe Bidens former special envoy to Iran. "The Biden administration should immediately cease its secret diplomacy with Iran and its dismantling of sanctions, and any officials linked to these emails should immediately have their security clearances pulled until these allegations are fully resolved and accountability is imposed," Cruz said in a statement Tuesday. Cruz released his statement in reference to media reports that the U.S. officials developed ties with a network of Iranian academics and researchers aiming to influence U.S. policy on Iran a decade ago. Cruzs office did not respond to VOAs request for evidence to back his claims of the administrations "secret diplomacy." Malley has been on leave since June while his security clearance is under review amid an investigation into his handling of classified material. Diplomatic breakthrough In a major diplomatic breakthrough earlier this month, U.S. and Iranian officials concluded a deal in which five Americans who had been imprisoned in Iran were freed in exchange for five Iranians accused of violating U.S. sanctions, and the unfreezing of $6 billion in Iranian oil revenue. U.S. officials insist that negotiations on the swap were unrelated to efforts to revive the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the 2015 deal to curb Irans nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. Then-President Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from the deal in 2018. A year later, Iran began ignoring limitations on its nuclear program while still maintaining that its nuclear program is for civilian, not military, purposes. Many had hoped the prisoner exchange would pave the way to discussions on more substantive issues, and some observers believe that they have. There are ongoing talks to de-escalate tensions, said Sina Azodi, a researcher of U.S.-Iran ties and a lecturer at the Elliott School of International Affairs at The George Washington University, quoting sources. For the United States, Azodi told VOA, a key goal in these talks is to scale down Irans pace of uranium enrichment. Tehran announced in 2021 it was enriching uranium to 60%, which would shorten its so-called breakout time to build a nuclear weapon, which requires uranium that is enriched above 90%. Low-level talks Such talks could be happening indirectly at a lower-stakes level, not involving McGurk and his Iranian counterpart, Ali Bagheri-Kani, said Alex Vatanka, director of the Iran Program at the Middle East Institute. "The fact that the authorities from Qatar and Oman are saying this and are talking about putting forward suggestions to push forward with nuclear talks, to me suggests that's real," Vatanka told VOA, referring to the two countries who acted as interlocutors in the prisoner swap deal. Earlier this month, Reuters reported that Qatar held separate bilateral meetings with Washington and Tehran that touched on Iran's nuclear program and U.S. concerns about Iranian drone transfers to Russia that are used to attack Ukraine. Those concerns and others, including preventing Iranian attacks on Americans in the Middle East, have been transmitted, said Barbara Slavin, a distinguished fellow at the Stimson Center. But apart from conversations earlier this year between Malley and Saeed Iravani, Irans ambassador to the United Nations, communications have been indirect. "I don't see any interest on the part of Brett McGurk to meet with the Iranians right now," Slavin told VOA. Geopolitically, conditions are not conducive to a JCPOA revival. The deal was negotiated with the P5+1 countries of the U.N. Security Council China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States. On Wednesday, the Biden administration announced sanctions on a network of entities and individuals it said was facilitating shipments and financial transactions in support of Tehrans procurement of a critical component used in Iran's Shahed-136 drones the U.S. says are being used by Russia in Ukraine. Farhad Pouladi, Guita Mirsaeedi and Katherine Gypson contributed to this report. The U.S. Department of Justice and FBI are helping Ukrainian prosecutors investigate alleged Russian war crimes committed during the invasion of Ukraine. The U.S. investigators are gathering evidence of illegal deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia, atrocities against civilians, and alleged crimes against humanity. They also are creating new practices in prosecuting crimes against the environment, cyberattacks, and illicit trafficking of cultural heritage as war crimes. After Prosecutor General of Ukraine Andriy Kostin participated in U.N. General Assembly events and meetings at the U.S. State Department, FBI, Justice Department and Congress, he sat for an interview with VOA's Ukrainian Service and discussed his team's cooperation with the U.S. Kostin said there is no international mechanism to help bring home children illegally deported to Russia. He argues that restoring justice for Ukrainian children can help children whose rights were violated in other wars and conflicts. He added that the international community should put more pressure on Russia to demand their return. In May, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin for alleged responsibility for the unlawful deportation of children from occupied areas of Ukraine to the Russian Federation, but the Kremlin has denied responsibility for war crimes. The following interview has been edited for brevity and clarity. VOA: This is one of your multiple trips to the U.S. in the last year. Whom did you meet this time and what are the main results of these meetings? Andriy Kostin, prosecutor general of Ukraine: My meetings with Attorney General Merrick Garland and his team once again we have substantial support now from not only [the] war crimes accountability team of [the] Department of Justice, but also from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. We shared some cases with these two teams some of them are world-known as a matter of Russian atrocities and we are looking forward to [receiving] results from this cooperation. So our work with the DOJ is very wide, substantial in not only for prosecuting war crimes, with our top priority cases like forced deportation of Ukrainian children, but also helping us to create practice in spheres which had never been prosecuted before in history. We are now prosecuting crimes against [the] environment as war crimes, we're approaching prosecuting cyberattacks as war crimes. And just now we have a very good meeting with a special team from [the] FBI about prosecuting cases on attacks on cultural heritage and illicit trafficking of cultural heritage as war crimes. So we are approaching new ... dimensions of crimes committed by Russia in Ukraine and against Ukrainians. [The] Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and all state authorities are assisting us. Not only from the point of view of cooperation in specific cases, but also capacity building, also training of our prosecutors and investigators. Because we [are] approaching new avenues, we have no right to make a mistake. Creating new practice, we need to be sure that the results of our investigations would be credible on the international level and will be accepted by the international community as true, fair justice. VOA: The Ukrainian Helsinki Human Rights Union has issued this report that prosecutors and policemen, different law enforcement people, including in your office, are sometimes lacking skills or time, they have too much pressure on them, so there are some problems with the course of those investigations. How are those things addressed? Kostin: First of all, it's an unprecedented amount of war crimes. We have registered [more than 108,000 registered incidents of possible war crimes by publication of the article] and many war crimes are underreported because they are still being committed on the occupied territories. I always tell my prosecutors and all law enforcement authorities that we need to ensure that the quality of your investigation and prosecution should be of a high standard. For us, it's a standard of the International Criminal Court. It is difficult to investigate, practically impossible to investigate, these number of crimes simultaneously. That's why our main approach is, first of all, to make it a matter of strategic solutions. And one of the elements of the strategy is combining cases. So, when we understand, for instance, that several missile and drone attacks were committed, for instance, by one unit of [the] Russian army, we can then try to combine these cases into a big one because in this case it will be easier for us to establish a chain of command. One of the new directions of our efforts is civilian detainees. We all know the criminal cases on deportation of Ukrainian children where their parents are awaiting their children who are kidnapped to Russia. Civilian detainees are the same crime, but it's their children who are awaiting their parents who are illegally detained in Russia. And one of our messages during this visit and United Nations General Assembly side events and other events was to raise awareness of the international community. Because we are talking about thousands of people who are illegally detained. We need to return them home. ... We have a lack of international mechanisms. We have some set of international legislation to protect Ukrainian children, but it's not enough to return them back home at the moment. As I mentioned at one side event of [the U.N. General Assembly], if the United Nations is so active in feeding children of other countries [with] Ukrainian grain, the United Nations should play, could play, a leading role in bringing Ukrainian children home from Russia using all the elements of communication and pressure over Russian authorities to bring our children back home. And this is important not only for Ukrainian children, it's important for many other children in many other countries of the world where their rights are violated. VOA: Do you feel that you are being heard on an international level and especially in the United States? What is being done right now? Kostin: As I mentioned, we've been at this side event on deportation of Ukrainian children together with [Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court] Karim Khan. And I spoke after him, and I said we will do our job with Karim. We will deliver more results. But this is not enough to make [Russia] accountable for deportation. For Ukrainian children, it doesn't mean automatically that our children will be returned home. There is no mechanism which automatically returns children to Ukraine from Russia just because more and more criminal cases will be investigated and prosecuted against those who commit this crime. Of course, we also will expand sanctions [on] those who are involved in Russia for this illegal activity. What is important for me is that all United States authorities are not only ready to support, they are really helping us, and this is important. I would be really glad to give more details, but when we see results, of course, we will speak about it. This interview originated in VOA's Ukrainian Service. With congressional leaders gridlocked over the nations budget and the deadline to pass spending bills fast approaching, the federal government could shut down on October 1. And that can affect some immigration services and visa programs. If the federal government closes, only essential personnel will be working. All other federal workers will not be allowed to work. So how will that affect immigration in the U.S.? The main difference between the following agencies is that some are fee-funded and the others rely on congressional appropriations for funding. In addition to where the budget for these different agencies comes from, we also need to look at the plans that each agency has published for just this kind of scenario, said Cesar Cuauhtemoc Garcia Hernandez, a professor at the Moritz College of Law at Ohio State University and an expert on migration studies. USCIS U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, part of the Homeland Security Department, helps manage the country's naturalization and immigration system. USCIS is mostly fee-funded and will continue to operate as usual because it does not depend on Congress to fund its services. However, some exceptions exist - for example, the E-Verify program and the EB5 investor program, which coordinate the departments of Labor and State. That said, while USCIS will keep looking, some [labor] applications cannot be filed unless they're accompanied by a statement from the Department of Labor that there are not enough workers in the United States who fill certain jobs, Garcia Hernandez said on social media. Operations at the Labor Department in the Office of Foreign Labor Certification will close. So those waiting for decisions on their work permit applications will be affected by a shutdown. This aspect of the Labor Department's work will likely close down in the event of a shutdown, and so that will affect the visa application and [other] things, even if slightly indirectly, because those [work] visa applications cannot be processed without that Labor Department certification, he said. CBP At the U.S. borders with Mexico or Canada, ports of entry monitored by U.S. Customs and Border Protection will be open, and processing of passengers will continue. The processing of some applications filed at the border, however, may be affected. At the border, most CBP operations should run normally since most CBP employees will continue working, albeit without pay. That said, I would not be surprised if CBP shuts down or slows down the processing of some visas at border ports of entry - for example, a small number of visas for professionals that require in-person processing by CBP at ports of entry. To be clear, this is a small fraction of what CBP does at any port of entry, Garcia Hernandez told VOA by email. State Department Visa and passport operations are fee-funded and usually not affected in a shutdown. Processing of nonessential visas, though, such as those that are recreational in nature, may slow or be suspended at U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide, which could result in visa interview backlogs. ICE During a shutdown, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers will still remove undocumented immigrants. But theyll focus on those who are being held in immigration detention and have removal orders. It will be possible for [ICE] to remove people even during a shutdown, but there will likely be fewer removals because the immigration courts will be slowed down a lot. If judges dont issue as many removal orders as they normally would, due to the fact that most immigration court staff isnt working, then there will be fewer removal orders for [ICE] to execute, Garcia Hernandez told VOA. Immigration courts Officials from the Executive Office for Immigration Review, a subagency within the Justice Department tasked with adjudicating immigration claims, also known as immigration courts, will work only on the cases of those in immigration detention. The American Immigration Council reports that during previous shutdowns, courts have not accepted new filings, and "it remains to be seen whether EOIR will continue to accept filings through its electronic system, or ECAS, which did not exist during the previous shutdown." Immigration courts will postpone hearings on cases for those who are not detained. They will try to keep moving forward on cases involving people who are imprisoned by ICE. Meanwhile, those people whose cases will get canceled or these hearings will be canceled then rescheduled are likely to have to wait a very long time to get another court date, Garcia Hernandez said on social media. According to the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse, immigration courts across the country already are facing large backlogs. The wait time for a hearing on an immigrant's asylum claim is about five years or longer. While the Executive Office for Immigration Review has ramped up recruiting efforts to add new immigration judges, decades of underfunding have meant that it has been unable to make a dent in the backlog, which continues to climb. It has reached 2,620,591 at the end of August, according to the TRAC website. So, the longer the shutdown lasts, the more we can expect it to affect the government's duties, Garcia Hernandez said. Some Republicans in the House Freedom Caucus said they wont support any spending bill without certain measures, including border wall construction, prolonged detention of asylum-seekers, and deportation of unaccompanied minors. And that is unlikely to win support in the Democratic-majority Senate. Government funding is set to end on September 30 unless Congress acts. Gang-plagued Haiti is sinking further into bloodshed and lawlessness, the United Nations chief warned in a report Wednesday, urging the international community to provide security and financial aid to the troubled Caribbean nation. Brutal gangs are tightening their grip on Haiti, with snipers shooting indiscriminately from rooftops and people burned alive, which prompts vigilante groups to respond with more violence. "Gang-related violence has continued to increase in intensity and brutality, with gangs expanding their control within and beyond Port-au-Prince," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a report published Wednesday. "Sexual violence, including collective rape, continue to be used by gangs to terrorize populations under the control of rival gangs," he added. The report comes as members of the UN Security Council debate the mandate of an international security mission, requested by Haitian authorities, to support the underfunded and understaffed police force, which will be led by Kenya. Nearly 2,800 murders were recorded between October 2022 and June 2023, including nearly 80 targeting minors, according to the report. Kidnappings for ransom are also on the rise, with nearly 1,500 people abducted over the past year, including 55 minors, the report said, adding that the true number could be even higher as families don't always report such crimes to the authorities, preferring to negotiate directly with kidnappers. Despite the adoption of a sanctions regime and a targeted arms embargo against Haiti, "experts assess that the illicit trafficking of weapons and ammunition has continued unabated," the report said. As a result, police are outnumbered and outgunned, while prosecutors and judges are afraid to go after gang members. "Stabilizing the security situation in Haiti will require significant international support, not only to the national police to restore security, but also in the areas of corrections, the justice system, custom control and border management," Guterres said. He urged world leaders to show "significant political will and commitment to securing adequate, predictable and sustained financing to preserve institutional gains in the long term." Haiti, the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, has been hit by a stream of economic, political, health and other crises in recent years. abd/dax/md/caw Polish Education Minister Przemyslaw Czarnek announced that his country aims to request Canada to extradite SS Yaroslav Hunk, who was applauded by the House of Commons. By applauding Yaroslav Hunk, President Volodymyr Zelensky reopened the wound of the 120,000 Poles massacred by integral nationalists during World War II. Former Prime Minister Beata Szydo tweeted: The applause for former SS Galicia in the Canadian Parliament is part of a larger problem. Canadian politicians may not have known who they were applauding. But didnt the Ukrainian president guess what the 98-year-old Ukrainian hero must have been doing during the Second World War? Perhaps President Zelensky did not notice the problem, just as he did not pay much attention to the cult of the WWII Ukrainian formations, which collaborated with Nazi Germany, a phenomenon which is gaining increasing traction in Ukraine. In recent months, Ukrainians have fought bravely against Russia and it seems they have new heroes. I hope that Ukrainian identity will not be shaped on the basis of the red and black tradition. Ukrainian integral nationalists massacred mainly Jews, Ukrainians and Poles. Unlike their Russian counterparts, the Polish authorities avoid mentioning President Zelenskys Jewishness DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, September 28, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--DBE Holding, which operates in the renewable energy sector and has subsidiaries specializing in renewable energy production and management technologies, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Siemens in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. With the signed MoU, DBE Global (DBEG) and Siemens will explore areas of joint collaboration related to engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) works for potential sustainability projects in the Middle East. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928807347/en/ Mehmet Taha Pnar, CEO of DBE Holding and Franco Atassi, CEO of Siemens Smart Infrastructure, Middle East (Photo: Business Wire) DBE Holdings subsidiary, DBE Global (DBEG) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Siemens in Dubai. DBE Holding Chairman Mehmet Taha Pnar stated that the agreement encompasses collaboration for DBEG to potentially support Siemens projects in the Middle East with engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) works. He also mentioned that the two companies plan to collaborate on the development of energy efficiency and energy performance contracting projects that can compliment DBEGs existing projects in the Middle East. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928807347/en/ Contacts Seda KESKINER seda@5n1pr.com.tr In the early 1920s, Willard Ayers Eliot hired a well-known natural history artist, R. Bruce Horsfall, to paint 56 works to illustrate Eliot's book "Birds of the Pacific Coast." Published in 1923, this popular and enduring bird identification book saw at least five editions. Eliot was deeply involved with the Oregon Audubon Society (OAS, now Portland Audubon), and in 1941, he donated the Horsfall paintings to OAS. Portland Audubon donated 55 of Horsfall's vibrant illustrations to the Oregon Historical Society in 2019, keeping a single illustration for themselves-the Rufous Hummingbird. Now, 100 years after the original printing of "Birds of the Pacific Coast," OHS will display all 55 Horsfall illustrations preserved in its museum collection, as well as the Rufous Hummingbird, on loan from Portland Audubon, alongside information about many of the birds depicted in the paintings. Megan Lallier-Baron, curator of the exhibition, says that what interests her most about the paintings is that together they illustrate "the perfect combination of how art can be aesthetically pleasing and informative." Visitors will also learn more about how to start birding in their own parks and neighborhoods so they can enjoy the very creatures that Horsfall preserved on paper. "We wanted the exhibit to inspire individuals who don't bird at all," said Lallier-Baron. She hopes the paintings "give that spark-whether it be in their backyard or the environment." The exhibition, titled "Birds of the Pacific Coast: The Illustrations of R. Bruce Horsfall," is on view now at the Oregon Historical Society's museum in downtown Portland through May 21, 2024. R. Bruce Horsfall was born in 1869, in Clinton, Iowa. As a child he took an interest in art and was especially captivated in his family's pets and wildlife around his home. As a teenager and young adult, Horsfall studied art, first in Cincinnati, Ohio, and later abroad in Germany. During his artistic career, Horsfall would become internationally known by having his work featured in magazines and books and through his work with museums. Between 1914 to 1924, Horsfall, along with his wife, Carra, and son, Robert Bruce Horsfall, Jr., lived in Oregon. He became involved with the Oregon Audubon Society, a connection that lasted even after moving away from Oregon. Alongside William Finley and others, Horsfall participated in a survey of wildlife in and around Klamath Lake. His artwork also featured in OAS publications, including "Birds of the Pacific Coast" and "Bluebirds Seven," published in 1978. For those unable to visit the exhibition in person, all 55 illustrations can be found online through the OHS Museum Collection portal. The Oregon Historical Society's museum is open seven days a week, MondaySaturday 10 a.m.5 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m.5 p.m. Admission is $10, with discounts for students, seniors, teachers, and youth. Admission is free every day for OHS members and Multnomah County residents. Learn more and plan your visit at ohs.org/visit. With its stock down 12% over the past week, it is easy to disregard Harmony Gold Mining (JSE:HAR). But if you pay close attention, you might find that its key financial indicators look quite decent, which could mean that the stock could potentially rise in the long-term given how markets usually reward more resilient long-term fundamentals. In this article, we decided to focus on Harmony Gold Mining's ROE. Return on equity or ROE is an important factor to be considered by a shareholder because it tells them how effectively their capital is being reinvested. Simply put, it is used to assess the profitability of a company in relation to its equity capital. See our latest analysis for Harmony Gold Mining How Is ROE Calculated? The formula for return on equity is: Return on Equity = Net Profit (from continuing operations) Shareholders' Equity So, based on the above formula, the ROE for Harmony Gold Mining is: 14% = R4.9b R35b (Based on the trailing twelve months to June 2023). The 'return' is the yearly profit. One way to conceptualize this is that for each ZAR1 of shareholders' capital it has, the company made ZAR0.14 in profit. Why Is ROE Important For Earnings Growth? Thus far, we have learned that ROE measures how efficiently a company is generating its profits. We now need to evaluate how much profit the company reinvests or "retains" for future growth which then gives us an idea about the growth potential of the company. Assuming all else is equal, companies that have both a higher return on equity and higher profit retention are usually the ones that have a higher growth rate when compared to companies that don't have the same features. Harmony Gold Mining's Earnings Growth And 14% ROE At first glance, Harmony Gold Mining's ROE doesn't look very promising. Yet, a closer study shows that the company's ROE is similar to the industry average of 14%. Looking at Harmony Gold Mining's exceptional 65% five-year net income growth in particular, we are definitely impressed. Considering the moderately low ROE, it is quite possible that there might be some other aspects that are positively influencing the company's earnings growth. For example, it is possible that the company's management has made some good strategic decisions, or that the company has a low payout ratio. Story continues We then compared Harmony Gold Mining's net income growth with the industry and we're pleased to see that the company's growth figure is higher when compared with the industry which has a growth rate of 37% in the same 5-year period. Earnings growth is an important metric to consider when valuing a stock. The investor should try to establish if the expected growth or decline in earnings, whichever the case may be, is priced in. This then helps them determine if the stock is placed for a bright or bleak future. Is Harmony Gold Mining fairly valued compared to other companies? These 3 valuation measures might help you decide. Is Harmony Gold Mining Efficiently Re-investing Its Profits? Harmony Gold Mining has a really low three-year median payout ratio of 19%, meaning that it has the remaining 81% left over to reinvest into its business. So it looks like Harmony Gold Mining is reinvesting profits heavily to grow its business, which shows in its earnings growth. Besides, Harmony Gold Mining has been paying dividends for at least ten years or more. This shows that the company is committed to sharing profits with its shareholders. Our latest analyst data shows that the future payout ratio of the company is expected to drop to 2.9% over the next three years. However, Harmony Gold Mining's future ROE is expected to decline to 7.6% despite the expected decline in its payout ratio. We infer that there could be other factors that could be steering the foreseen decline in the company's ROE. Conclusion On the whole, we do feel that Harmony Gold Mining has some positive attributes. Despite its low rate of return, the fact that the company reinvests a very high portion of its profits into its business, no doubt contributed to its high earnings growth. That being so, a study of the latest analyst forecasts show that the company is expected to see a slowdown in its future earnings growth. Are these analysts expectations based on the broad expectations for the industry, or on the company's fundamentals? Click here to be taken to our analyst's forecasts page for the company. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Strike reduced from 24 hours to four hours. Air travellers in Italy face disruption on Friday 29 September due to a nationwide strike by airport ground staff and baggage handlers from 13.00 to 17.00. The industrial dispute, initially scheduled to be 24 hours, was reduced to four hours after Italy's transport minister Matteo Salvini issued an injunction to limit the dispute. The industrial action had been due to take place the same day as a 24-hour strike affecting local public transport services across Italy however this was postponed to 9 October following a government order. AGGIORNAMENTO L'agitazione proclamata dal comparto aereo e dalle societa di Handling per venerdi 29/09 e stata ridotta da 24 a 4 ore, dalle 13 alle 17. La lista dei voli coinvolti e disponibile a questo link: https://t.co/hOIJsvByI4 https://t.co/rrSKGAmXO2 ITA Airways Risponde (@ITAAirways) September 28, 2023 The reasons for Friday's airport workers' strike - called for by the Filt-Cgil, Fit-Cisl, Uiltrasporti and Ugl Trasporto aereo trade unions - include demands for greater job security and the renewal of a national collective labour contract that expired six years ago. Rome's Fiumicino airport posted a notice of the strike on social media, warning travellers to check their flight status with their airline in advance. A seguito di uno sciopero nazionale del trasporto aereo di 4 ore indetto per il 29 settembre 2023, alcuni voli potrebbero subire ritardi o cancellazioni. Si invitano pertanto i passeggeri a verificare lo stato del proprio volo con la compagnia aerea di riferimento. pic.twitter.com/6SSboRf3yx Aeroporti di Roma (@AeroportidiRoma) September 28, 2023 The Italian civil aviation authority ENAC reminds air travellers that during strikes in Italy flights are guaranteed from 07.00-10.00 and 18.00-21.00. The ENAC website also contains a list of international and domestic flights that are guaranteed to take off on Friday. For official information about upcoming strikes in Italy see the transport ministry website. Delta CEO Ed Bastian said the company probably went too far in its controversial changes to the SkyMiles loyalty program and said there are plans for modifications. We need to make certain that we can serve our higher tiers with the level of premium experience that you deserve and you expect, Bastian said at the Rotary Club of Atlanta earlier this week. No question we probably went too far. Bastian did not confirm what changes are coming. Delta confirmed Bastians comments. Were still assessing what we do but there will be modifications that we will make and youll hear about it sometime over the next few weeks, Bastian said. Bastian said a jump in the number of elite status holders turned into too much demand for Deltas premium services, such as airport lounge access. It got to the point, he said, that the company couldnt effectively serve those elite status holders, including upgrade certificates and agents on special phone lines. During Covid, the number of diamond-level members almost doubled, he said, after the company allowed status and miles to roll over while customers werent traveling. Our team wanted to kind of rip the Band-Aid off and didnt want us to keep going through this every year with changes in nickel and diming and whatnot. So I think we moved too fast, Bastian said. When the moderator asked Bastian about the rewards program changes, the audience at the Atlanta Rotary Club booed. In September, the company implemented changes that would make it more difficult for American Express cardholders to access Delta Sky Clubs and earn Medallion elite status, taking effect in 2025. Those with premium American Express cards would have lounge access cut from unlimited to as few as six visits per year. For frequent fliers, the airline will also change how it awards Medallion elite status starting in 2024. There will only be one metric Medallion Qualifying Dollars (MQD) and requirements are higher than what they are today. Its also getting rid of the MQD waiver that popular Delta credit cards offered. Story continues Rewards programs are an important tool for companies to acquire customers, learn more about their preferences, and promote brand loyalty. But while rewards members may love freebies and other perks, theyre equally quick to criticize companies for any tweaks. Brands from Best Buy to Dunkin Donuts and Starbucks faced quick backlash when they implemented changes to their loyalty programs. CNNs Andrew Kunesh and Nathaniel Meyersohn contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Share Comment on this story Comment Add to your saved stories Save It took Senator Bob Menendez of New Jersey less than a New York minute to pull the Latino card after he was charged with taking gold, cash and a Mercedes-Benz in return for political favors. The Democrat cast himself as a first-generation Latino American from humble beginnings whose only crime was having the audacity to rise to the heights of a powerful US senator. In an attempt to bolster his defense during a press conference on Monday, Menendez showed little compunction about using the memory of his late mother and the specter of Fidel Castro to portray himself as the prodigal son of Cuban refugees. My advocacy has always been grounded in what I learned growing up as the son of Cuban refugees, especially my mom, my hero, Evangelina Menendez, he said. As a Latina, I rolled my eyes in disbelief that Menendez had the gall to go there. Advertisement With his immense political power as the chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee (he has temporarily stepped down) and the fact that he is White-passing (Latinos with darker skin suffer racism more than those who are lighter), Menendez is far from a humble Latino discriminated against by forces behind the scenes, as he put it. So, for one of the most influential Latinos in the US government to suggest that he is being targeted because of his ethnicity is not only ludicrous but hubris and an insult to Latinos who genuinely suffer institutional discrimination. The migrants being bused across the country in a political tit-for-tat and left in limbo is just one example, and the persistence of the Latino threat narrative is another. We are also in a political climate where the far right, using the Supreme Courts decision to ban affirmative action in college admissions as fuel, is trying to torch every diversity, equity and inclusion measure in corporate America. Menendezs use of race disparages the legitimate claims of people of color who have been given limited opportunities to succeed and have now been made unfair targets when they do. Advertisement He and his wife, Nadine, stand accused of using his political clout to help the Egyptian government and three New Jersey businessmen in exchange for bribes. They have both pleaded not guilty. The pictures distributed by the federal agents who raided Menendezs home in June 2022 showed bricks of cash stuffed in a jacket emblazoned with the senators name and the logo of the Hispanic Congressional Caucus (whose leaders have not said a word about the indictment), the gold bars, and the Mercedes parked outside. To explain why he seemingly used his home as a bank vault, Menendez saved the best excuse for last: For 30 years, I have withdrawn thousands of dollars in cash from my personal savings account, which I have kept for emergencies and because of the emergency of my family facing confiscation in Cuba. Advertisement But his family left Cuba in 1953, when the dictator Fulgencio Batista still ruled, and Castro was five years away from coming to power. So what the senator, born in New York City, meant by his family facing confiscation in Cuba remains to be clarified. What is most confusing is that Menendez accuses the system of going after him because he is Latino when, for three decades, he has been an integral part of this very system. There is little doubt that he has profited significantly from the power and prestige that comes with being part of Congress. Perhaps he hopes his words will evoke some sort of solidarity among the 31% of Hispanics in the US who say they have experienced discrimination or mistreatment by a non-Hispanic. Other Latinos, including myself, doubt that is the case for Menendez right now. Advertisement His identity-politics defense calls to mind the high-tech lynching Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas used to describe his confirmation hearings. Share this article Share So far, the tactic hasnt worked for the NJ senator. More than half of the 48 Democratic senators, including fellow NJ Senator Cory Booker, a close ally of Menendez, have called on him to resign. And Representative Pete Aguilar of California, the House Democratic Caucus chairman and highest-ranking Latino in the lower chamber, recently joined the chorus. Menendez, up for reelection in 2024, also made history last week as the first sitting US senator to be indicted twice, having stood trial in federal court in 2017, charged with taking bribes from a rich doctor in exchange for political favors. A judge declared a mistrial in that case. At the time, many powerful Latinos came to his defense. Today, there is radio silence. Advertisement It fell to Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York to best explain why Latinos are hesitant to come to Menendezs defense this time. As a Latina, there are absolutely ways in which there is systemic bias. But I think what is here in this indictment is quite clear, she told CBS News. And I believe [resignation] is in the best interest to maintain the integrity of the seat. Menendez has the right to defend himself against the charges brought against him, but he has no right to use his Latinidad as a politically expedient tool to get him out of his mess. More From Bloomberg Opinion Biden Needs a Strategist, Not a Token: Susanne Ramirez de Arellano Democrats Should Cheer Up About Biden: Jonathan Bernstein Joe Biden Should Worry About More Dead Migrants: Eduardo Porter This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners. Susanne Ramirez de Arellano is a freelance writer and journalist. She is a grantee of the International Womans Media Foundation and the former news director of Channel 11-Univision in Puerto Rico. She has worked for ABC News, APTN and CNN International. 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 A year ago today, Hurricane Ian slammed into Fort Myers, Florida, with 150-mph winds and a huge storm surge. It killed 149 people and inflicted $115 billion worth of damage, making it the costliest storm in Floridas history and the third costliest in US history. Climate change got most of the blame for those staggering numbers, but the real culprit was us. If the storm had happened in 1975, it would have been far less costly but thats only partly because the atmosphere has become hotter in the decades since, giving hurricanes more wrecking power. According to a report on Ian this week by the reinsurance giant Swiss Re, the bigger problem was the many millions of people who rushed into the path of such increasingly destructive hurricanes, building (often expensive) houses that might as well have had giant bulls-eyes on their roofs. Fort Myers had grown 124% in the 30 years before Ian made landfall, by one measure, making it the countrys seventh-fastest-growing city. More shockingly, just weeks after the storm, as residents were still picking through the wreckage, buyers rushed in to pick up waterlogged property on the cheap. Its pretty much business as usual, one busy real estate agent told the Wall Street Journal. Advertisement What a quote. Most of us worry about climate change, most Floridians included. But it seems fewer of us are actually making significant lifestyle decisions based on that worry. The lure of Fort Myers and other recent Sun Belt meccas is easy to understand: They are beautiful, snow free and, most important, often cheaper than cities in the Northeast. And the occasional flying palm tree has always been an acceptable risk of living in a paradise like Florida. But a heating planet is making swaths of these places miserable, if not uninhabitable. Maricopa County, Arizona, home to Phoenix, has been Americas fastest-growing region since 2010. This summer, it smashed a record for consecutive days above 110F. The city is taking heroic measures to protect its new residents, but at what point do those people realize they would have an easier time living somewhere cooler, and with more water? Advertisement As for hurricane risk, modern building standards are saving lives and dollars in Florida, Texas and other storm-prone coasts, ostensibly making these places more suitable for human life. Hurricane-proofed housing has shaved 140% to 150% from expected storm damages in the Fort Myers area since 1975, according to Swiss Re. But this effect has been more than swamped by the sheer volume of housing built during that period: That has raised losses by 340% to 350%, according to Swiss Re. Big, scary climate change has boosted storm losses by a mere 20% to 25% in comparison. Share this article Share Hurricane-proofing houses is also expensive. Often the only people who can afford it are wealthy vacation-home owners, who are also better positioned to deal with insurance premiums that have soared as losses mount. Some homeowners are skipping insurance altogether and hoping for the best. At the same time, as my Bloomberg Opinion colleague Jonathan Levin has written, state and federal governments are still subsidizing the wealthy with federal flood insurance and state-backed property insurance. And in some risky places, such as fire-prone parts of California, premiums arent high enough to dissuade people from living there. Its not a sustainable situation, for either the insurance industry or the people living in these areas. Governments at every level need to work harder to reduce the carbon emissions warming the planet while also better preparing communities for the ravages of climate change. Advertisement At some point, that preparation will inevitably include moving the people out. We can do that in an orderly and fair way, by making insurance premiums actually reflect risks, paying homeowners to move and providing affordable alternatives. Or we can just wait for ever-bigger tragedies to make these choices for us. More From Bloomberg Opinion: Coastal Real Estate Still Misprices Climate Risk: Jonathan Levin Hurricanes Are a Perfect Storm for Insurers: David Fickling Maine Is the New Florida for Climate Migrants: Conor Sen This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners. Mark Gongloff is a Bloomberg Opinion editor and columnist covering climate change. He previously worked for Fortune.com, the Huffington Post and the Wall Street Journal. 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 Former President Donald Trumps latest run for the White House is being complicated by a legal onslaught, the latest blow being a ruling by a New York State Supreme Court judge that he was liable for fraud for exaggerating his net worth by billions of dollars a year on financial records. Earlier, he was charged in four separate cases with trying to undo his 2020 election defeat in Georgia, working to overturn the overall election result, mishandling classified documents and falsifying business records. A jury found him liable for sexually abusing a woman decades ago, and hes facing other civil lawsuits. In addition, his family business was found guilty of engaging in tax fraud. 1. Whats the fraud ruling about? In what is perhaps the biggest threat to the former presidents wealth, as well as his image as a successful businessman, New York Attorney General Letitia James filed a civil suit against Trump and his two adult sons in September, 2022. She accused them and their real estate company of fraudulently manipulating the value of assets for years to deceive banks and insurers. James is seeking the return of $250 million in allegedly ill-gotten gains and a permanent ban on the family members from doing business in New York. In a pre-trial ruling Sept. 26 that resolved the states biggest claim against the ex-President and narrowed the scope of the trial, Justice Arthur Engoron ruled that Trump had committed fraud by inflating the value of many of his assets. The judge authorized James to cancel certificates for companies that hold those assets. Advertisement 2. What are the charges in Georgia? The central allegation in the Aug. 14 indictment of Trump is racketeering essentially, working with a network of co-defendants in committing a web of crimes to support a common objective. Under the Georgia version of the law, racketeering carries a minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum of 20 years. Trump and 18 other defendants, including former New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, are charged with conspiring to unlawfully change the outcome of the presidential election in Georgia in Trumps favor. Trumps lawyers called the indictment flawed and unconstitutional. 3. What were the previous election-related charges? In an indictment filed in federal court in Washington Aug. 1, Trump was charged with three criminal conspiracies to subvert the 2020 election. Hes accused of trying to undermine the counting of votes and the certification of the results; with obstructing a congressional investigation into attacks on the US Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021 as Congress was making that certification; and with conspiring against peoples right to vote and to have their votes counted. The charges from the office of Special Counsel John L. Jack Smith carry penalties of as much as 20 years in prison. The Democrat-led House of Representatives committee that investigated the Capitol riot had recommended that the Justice Department charge Trump with insurrection. Such criminal referrals from Congress carry no legal weight on their own, and the charge is not part of the indictment. Advertisement 4. What has Trump said about Jan. 6? Trump has defended his actions surrounding the 2020 election by repeatedly making the debunked claim that it was rigged against him and that his successor Joe Biden benefited from millions of illegal votes. He argues that the Jan. 6 insurrection wasnt his fault he blames then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other Democrats for alleged security failures and that his rally before the attack was peaceful even though he urged his followers to fight like hell. Trump has also suggested that if he were reelected, hed pardon potentially hundreds of individuals who were charged with crimes over the attack, which resulted in injuries to more than 140 police officers and millions of dollars in damage. 5. Can Trump still run for president? The US Constitution, which sets the qualifications for president, says nothing that would bar Trump from running or even taking office while facing charges or serving a sentence for the crimes hes currently charged with. Of course, an active prosecution or prison sentence would present all manner of practical and political difficulties. The 14th Amendment to the Constitution, enacted in the aftermath of the Civil War, includes a provision that no one can hold a seat in Congress, or any office, civil or military, if they engaged in insurrection or rebellion. Two conservative legal scholars argue in an academic paper that the provision applies to Trump because of his role in the Jan. 6 rebellion. Activists have filed lawsuits in Colorado, Minnesota and Virginia seeking to apply the prohibition to Trump to disqualify him from ballots in those states. Advertisement 6. Who is special counsel Jack Smith? Smith, the former head of the Justice Departments public integrity section, is the man who was named special counsel to oversee probes into Trumps alleged mishandling of classified documents as well as into any role the former president and those around him may have had in the insurrection at the Capitol. Smith has spent three decades prosecuting official corruption, police brutality and violent crimes. Smith has also headed up genocide and war crimes prosecutions at the International Criminal Court. 7. What are the charges against Trump related to classified information? Share this article Share The case stems from Trumps decision to move scores of boxes of White House documents to his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida after he left office, many of which contained highly classified government records. A federal indictment filed in US District Court in Miami accuses Trump of failing to comply with a subpoena for the return of all classified documents in his possession and then conspiring with others to hide his obstinacy. The full indictment, after revisions, includes 42 counts, including willful retention of national defense information, conspiracy to obstruct justice, and making false statements. If convicted of obstructing justice, Trump could face as long as 20 years in prison. Trump claimed innocence in a post on his Truth Social platform. His presidential campaign called the indictment an act of open legal warfare. Advertisement 8. What are the charges related to business records? Trump also faces 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in a case brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Braggs office. He stands accused of concealing payments on the eve of the 2016 election to pornographic film actress Stormy Daniels, intended to keep her from going public with her allegations of a sexual encounter with Trump. Trump denies he had an affair with Daniels and pleaded not guilty on April 4. 9. What was the case involving Trumps family business? On Dec. 6, two units of his family business, the Trump Organization, were found guilty of engaging in a 13-year tax-evasion scheme. A Manhattan jury found the two units guilty of all 17 counts including scheme to defraud, conspiracy, criminal tax fraud and falsifying business records. Trump himself wasnt charged. The two companies were assessed a $1.6 million fine. With a felony on its record, the Trump Organization could be barred from further contracts with government agencies and could have trouble doing business with banks. Lawyers for both units said they would appeal. Advertisement 10. Where do the other civil cases stand? In a case brought by New York advice columnist E. Jean Carroll, who said Trump raped her in a department store dressing room in the 1990s, a jury on May 9 found Trump liable for sexual abuse. The jury also sided with Carrolls claim that Trump had defamed her when, in 2022, he said on social media that she was not his type and that she made up the claim to boost sales of her book. The jury awarded Carroll a total of $5 million in damages. Carrolls earlier, 2019 defamation suit against Trump for calling her a liar is set for trial in January. A judge ruled Sept. 6 that Trump is liable for defaming Carroll, meaning at the trial a jury will only need to decide what damages he must pay. Trump, his company and his three oldest children are facing a class-action lawsuit filed in 2018 by four investors who claimed that they were duped by Trumps promotions into paying thousands of dollars to become independent sellers with ACN Opportunity LLC, which sold a doomed videophone device that Trump touted as the next big thing. The devices were made obsolete by smartphones. A trial is scheduled for Jan. 29. Advertisement Trump was sued by 12 Democratic lawmakers accusing him of sparking the Jan. 6 riot. Multiple Capitol police officers also sued Trump for physical injuries and racist abuse suffered during that day. Through appeals, Trump is trying to get the cases dismissed. Mary Trump, the former presidents niece, sued her uncle, his late brother and older sister for allegedly cheating her out of her share of the family fortune. Donald Trump won dismissal of the lawsuit on Nov. 14. Mary Trump is seeking to have it reinstated. A group of Michigan voters sued Trump and his reelection campaign in 2020 for mass voter suppression, particularly among Black voters. Trumps attempt to dismiss the case was partially granted; the Michigan group sought more time to file a second complaint. 11. Do these cases hurt him politically? Advertisement The slew of cases could bring further distractions and unflattering revelations not to mention the risk of prison time. Trump is no normal politician, though, and the legal scrutiny could feed his preferred narrative that hes being unfairly targeted by a deep state bureaucracy and the Democratic administration of Biden, his likely opponent in the 2024 general election. Hes called the lawsuits against him and investigations into his conduct hoaxes and witch hunts and told his supporters, Im being indicted for you. He has remained the Republican front-runner for the nomination and has even received bumps in fundraising and in the polls after being indicted. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Christopher A. Wray, who has been increasingly under attack from congressional Republicans, said the people accusing the law enforcement agency of bias are themselves trying to gain a political advantage at the FBIs expense. Car insurance protects you against financial loss in the case of an accident or theft. Here's a look at the different types of coverage you can choose. Its a question all drivers should know the answer to: What does car insurance cover? While auto insurance policies can vary in terms of premiums , deductibles, and coverage limits, basic car insurance typically provides these types of coverage. Liability Liability coverage, required by law in most states, is the foundation of car insurance policies. Its designed to protect you financially if youre found at fault in an accident and cause injury or property damage to others. Liability coverage encompasses two components: bodily injury liability coverage and property damage liability coverage. Bodily injury (BI) liability covers injuries that you cause to someone else. Generally, it pays for the other persons medical bills, recovery costs, and lost wages. Property damage (PD) liability covers the cost of repairing or replacing another persons property that you damaged. Typically, this covers damage to another drivers vehicle, but it can also cover damage to fences, lamp posts, telephone poles, buildings, or other structures your car hits. Collision If your car is damaged in a collision with another vehicle or a stationary object, such as a streetlight or a tree, collision coverage pays to fix or replace it. If youre leasing or financing your vehicle, your lender may require you to purchase collision coverage. Comprehensive Comprehensive coverage provides damage protection for your vehicle in situations other than collisions, such as damage caused by theft, vandalism, natural disasters, falling objects, and other incidents specified by your insurance policy. Medical payments If you or your passengers are injured in an accident, medical payments (MedPay) coverage helps pay for healthcare costs associated with injuries, such as hospital visits, surgery, X-rays, and more. MedPay coverage is required in some states. Story continues Personal injury protection Personal injury protection (PIP) coverage not available in all states helps pay for you and your passengers medical expenses resulting from an accident, regardless of who is at fault, meaning you dont have to wait for your insurance company to determine blame to be compensated. It also typically covers rehabilitation, lost wages, and funeral costs. PIP coverage is required in 18 no-fault insurance states, including Arkansas, Delaware, Minnesota, New York, Texas, and others. Uninsured/underinsured motorist In cases where youre involved in a car accident with a driver who doesnt have car insurance or has insufficient coverage, uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UI) coverage steps in to cover your medical expenses and property damage. Additional car insurance coverage options Most car insurance providers offer supplemental types of coverage. Here are some common additional options: Accident forgiveness. With this type of coverage, your insurance company will forgive you if you cause an accident, meaning it wont raise your premiums. Typically, you can qualify for one forgiven accident for a set time frame, such as every three years. Gap insurance. If youre leasing or financing your car, gap insurance covers the difference between the current market value of your vehicle and the amount you owe on your lease or loan in the event of a total loss. Gap insurance could be a good option in the early years of a vehicle's ownership, when the amount of your loan may exceed the market value of the car. Gap insurance coverage only adds about $20, on average, to a car insurance policys annual premium, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III). Rental car reimbursement. This coverage pays for a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired or replaced following an accident. Towing and roadside assistance. Many insurance providers offer this type of insurance, which provides roadside in the case of a breakdown or covers the cost of towing your vehicle. Custom parts and modifications. If you added aftermarket accessories or made modifications to your vehicle, this type of coverage can help protect the custom parts and equipment you installed. Classic car. If you drive an antique or classic car, you may want to consider getting classic car insurance also known as collector car insurance or antique car insurance to help protect it. According to the III, a vehicle is considered a classic car when its at least 25- to 30-years old. Ready to shop around for a new car insurance policy? Check out Kiplinger Readers Choice Awards of the best auto insurance companies . Understanding most fashion trends is easy, even for those clueless about clothes. Barbiecore, gothcore, cottagecore; all the cores are self-explanatory. Other trends benefit from visual demonstrations, such as the whale tail, where the straps of a G-string appear above a low-slung skirt. Seriously, this elevated approach to the wedgie, which had its first outing in the early 2000s, has returned. A model at the Dolce & Gabbana X Mytheresa presentation in May in Portofino, Italy. Credit: Getty Images Getting to the core of the Tomato Girl Summer trend, which ripened in the heatwave that swept Europe recently, defies all demonstrations. The fruity style took root on social media platform TikTok with a hashtag thats attracted more than 18 million views. It then spread like a virus to Instagram, which has endured an unofficial Italian takeover by Australian influencers escaping the winter chill at home. Cue countless posts featuring models (and those filtered to resemble them) ambling along cobblestone streets and pebble beaches. Loading Entry-level observance includes outfits with tomatoes on them, such as those from Italian fashion brand Dolce & Gabbana. Even prints of tinned tomatoes, channelling Andy Warhol, qualify, but fresh is definitely best. The trend deepens, like a nonnas passata, into anything in a vibrant shade of red before spilling over into a range of holiday outfits suitable for sipping a Campari and soda by a hotel pool. Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size Suspended Home Affairs chief Michael Pezzullo provided a big tobacco company access to one of his departments highest-ranking officials after a request from a lobbying company owned by Pezzullos close friend, Labor stalwart Chris Fry. Correspondence seen by this masthead and briefings from several sources with direct knowledge of events also reveal Pezzullo separately sought to influence Coalition and Labor politicians on the parliamentary committee overseeing Australias national security agencies and laws, and took steps to keep some of these interactions secret. Among those he sought to privately cultivate was now opposition defence spokesman Andrew Hastie, who Pezzullo invited to his house for a discreet dinner. An ongoing investigation by this masthead has also obtained written evidence that, after an approach from a lobbyist, Pezzullo had a private discussion with the head of controversial consulting firm PwC about its plans to privatise the quarantine system during the pandemic. Pezzullo declined multiple requests for interviews about the contents of the investigation and referred inquiries to the Home Affairs Department. Integrity expert Clancy Moore of Transparency International called on the Australian Public Service Commissioner to expand its investigation into the suspended Home Affairs secretary in light of the new revelations. Suspended Home Affairs secretary Michael Pezzullo. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen These fresh incidents involving Pezzullo further cloud his reign as the secretary of Home Affairs and challenge the values of independence and being politically neutral that underpin the public service, Moore said. Advertisement The commissioners inquiry is already probing dozens of other messages Pezzullo sent to Liberal Party powerbroker Scott Briggs over five years in an attempt to wield backroom influence over Coalition prime ministers Malcolm Turnbull and Scott Morrison. The publication of those messages by The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald and 60 Minutes forced the Albanese government to stand down Pezzullo and task the public service commissioner with investigating him. Pezzullos private dealings with political figures are detailed in records, including phone communications and documents released under freedom of information, as well as via briefings from confidential sources. The records provide a rare glimpse into the Home Affairs chiefs personal and professional relationships and how they sometimes appeared at odds with the Australian Public Service Code of Conduct. Mates get department access The communications, some of which have been leaked to this masthead, show Pezzullo was often at pains to recuse himself from his duties as departmental secretary when friends and political confidants stood to benefit from departmental decisions. For instance, Pezzullo issued formal internal disclosures of his friendships with Briggs and former Labor minister Stephen Conroy when a company directed by the pair, Australian Visa Processing, began bidding for a $1 billion visa processing system contract. Australian Visa Processing never secured the contract after a plan to outsource visa services was unexpectedly scrapped by the Morrison government in March 2020. Advertisement But Pezzullo failed to disclose to his departments probity team his repeated covert efforts to use Briggs connections to prime ministers Turnbull and Morrison to influence political decisions. Leaked correspondence obtained by this masthead also reveals that on at least two occasions, Pezzullo agreed to requests from friends who were politically aligned lobbyists. While there is no suggestion that a senior official agreeing to a request from a lobbyist mate is unlawful, it creates a potential for a conflict of interest if not properly managed. There is no suggestion Pezzullo profited financially from the interaction. In November 2021, the messages show Pezzullo requested that a high-ranking departmental subordinate responsible for overseeing Australias customs system engage with British American Tobacco. At the time, the federal lobbying register recorded the tobacco giants lobbyist as Chris Fry a former Labor staffer who has a close, decades-long friendship with Pezzullo. The company was seeking access to Home Affairs to encourage it to further crack down on the illegal tobacco industry, which strips revenue from cigarette manufacturers. Confidential correspondence obtained by this masthead also shows Pezzullo directly fielded the request for British American Tobacco access to Home Affairs from Frys now defunct lobbying company, Public Policy Solutions, and then requested his top customs officer speak to the firm. Fry didnt respond to a message left by this masthead. The department declined to comment because the public service commissioner was investigating. Advertisement The confidential messages reveal that in August 2021, Pezzullo agreed to have a meeting with PwC chief executive Tom Seymour after a direct approach from a lobbyist who was both friends with Pezzullo and working with PwC. The conversation was to validate the importance of the firms proposal to privatise parts of the nations COVID quarantine services. At the time, PwC was part of a business consortium seeking to charge people to use a quarantine facility. The proposal never eventuated because of the opening of borders. Seymour resigned from the firm this year as a result of the PwC tax information scandal. PwCs bid to privatise quarantine facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic never got off the ground because borders reopened. Winning friends and influencing people Confidential communication records and multiple sources commenting on the condition of anonymity reveal that, in addition to his dealings with businesspeople, Pezzullo frequently messaged Conroy and other influential Labor and Liberal figures who were considered national security hawks to advance his national security agenda and influence the parliamentary joint committee on intelligence and security. The committee provides rigorous oversight of the national security regime that Pezzullo helped to lead until he was stood down on Monday. On at least two separate occasions in 2018 and 2019, Pezzullo attempted to influence Liberal MP Andrew Hastie, who was the then chair of the committee. This masthead is not suggesting these exchanges are corrupt or illegal, only that they were inappropriate for a senior public servant. Advertisement Someone needs to engage with Hastie as Chair of [the security committee] encouraging them not to wander off into unrealistic grounds, Pezzullo messaged a confidant in 2019. Loading After Hastie sensationally used parliamentary privilege in May 2018 to expose influence activities directed by Beijing, Pezzullo made a concerted effort to shape Hasties public stance on national security. At the time, Hastie was under attack for being too publicly hawkish on China. Pezzullos messages show he claimed he could influence Hastie because the pair were friends. Pezzullo intended to host Hastie for dinner at his Canberra house as part of what the departmental chief viewed as his special role in assisting members on both sides of the aisle to realise their potential in the national security space. Opposition defence spokesman Andrew Hastie. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen No one else should know we are having dinner, Pezzullo texted to a contact before dining with Hastie. I have a good relationship with Hastie and I dont want to compromise it. Pezzullo is considered a hawk on China, but in 2018 appears to have been cognisant of the need to manage public statements that risked angering Beijing or Australias allies. Advertisement Key opponents of the Indigenous Voice have switched sides in the final weeks of the referendum to back the Yes case after rising fears that a No victory would align them with Opposition Leader Peter Dutton or One Nation leader Pauline Hanson. The moves reveal the concerns among progressive No activists who initially rejected the Voice in favour of stronger action such as a treaty first but have moved away from the hardline stance taken by Indigenous senator Lidia Thorpe. Lidia Thorpe said the Blak Sovereignty movement had grown on social media and she was not changing her position on the Voice Credit: Alex Ellinghausen But Thorpe said the Blak Sovereignty movement, which she leads, was growing exponentially and would continue to oppose the Voice, saying she would not switch sides despite calls from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for her support. With early voting opening on Monday, the Yes campaign is trying to win back voters who have been swayed by conservative critics who say the Voice goes too far and progressive No leaders such as Thorpe who see the Voice as a retreat on sovereignty and treaty. Aramco, one of the worlds leading integrated energy and chemicals companies, has signed definitive agreements to acquire a strategic minority stake in MidOcean Energy for $500 million. MidOcean Energy is a liquefied natural gas (LNG) company formed and managed by EIG, a leading institutional investor in the global energy and infrastructure sectors. MidOcean Energy is currently in the process of acquiring interests in four Australian LNG projects, with a growth strategy to create a diversified global LNG business. The strategic partnership with MidOcean Energy marks Aramcos first international investment in LNG. The agreement builds on the relationship between Aramco and EIG, which was part of a consortium that acquired a 49 per cent stake in Aramco Oil Pipelines Company, a subsidiary of Aramco, in 2021. Completion of the transaction is subject to closing conditions which include regulatory approvals. Aramco also has the option to increase its shareholding and associated rights in MidOcean Energy in the future. Amin Nasser, Aramco President & CEO, said: We are pleased to be strengthening our strategic partnership with EIG through this acquisition, which marks Aramcos first international investment in LNG. We anticipate strong demand-led growth for LNG as the world continues on its energy transition journey, with gas being a vital fuel and feedstock in various industries. We believe that gas will be important in meeting the worlds rising need for secure, accessible and more sustainable energy. Nasir Al-Naimi, Aramco Upstream President, said: This is an important step in Aramcos strategy to become a leading global LNG player. We see significant opportunities in this market, which is positioned for structural, long-term growth. MidOcean Energy is well-equipped to capitalise on rising LNG demand, and this strategic partnership reflects our willingness to work with leading international players to identify and unlock new opportunities at a global level. Blair Thomas, EIG Chairman and CEO, said: Energy transition informs every investment decision we make, and we believe LNG has a key role to play in enabling an orderly transition that balances societys twin goals of decarbonisation and energy security. Concurrent with that, we believe the LNG industry is ripe for change and there is a role for a nimble, pure-play company like MidOcean Energy. While our initial focus is on the announced transactions in Australia, we believe the opportunity set is global. We are excited to expand our existing partnership with Aramco to include this important initiative. De la Rey Venter, MidOcean Energy CEO, said: It is an honor for MidOcean Energy to have Aramco as a key shareholder and strategic partner. We share the conviction that LNG is an integral enabler of the global energy transition, and we believe that the global LNG industry has strong fundamentals for many decades to come. Synergistic partnerships are core to how MidOcean Energy will do business, grow and thrive. In Aramco, we have a partner that has long-term thinking in its DNA and an unwavering commitment to enduring collaborations. We look forward to pursuing many new opportunities together.--OGN/ TradeArabia News Service TAIPEI,Taiwan, September 28, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--E.SUN Banks "E.SUN ESG Initiative Event" was convened for the third consecutive year in Taipei, Taiwan. President Tsai Ing-wen, Secretary-General Lin Chia-lung, Deputy Minister Yeh Chun-hung of the Ministry of the Environment, and Vice Chairman Chiu Shu-chen of the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) attended to support. More than one hundred excellent companies enrolled the initiative to advocate for the implementation of net-zero target. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230927909980/en/ President Tsai Ing-wen (front middle) attended "E.SUN ESG Initiative Event", more than one hundred excellent companies enrolled the initiative to advocate for the implementation of net-zero target. (Photo: Business Wire) The "E.SUN Sustainability Initiative Event" was launched in 2021 with 32 participating corporations, in 2022, the initiative garnered significant response, with a total of 101 influential companies accounted for an impressive NT$5.08 trillion in total revenue, they represented over 23% of Taiwan's GDP in 2021. This year, the number of participating companies has increased to 157, including top performers in global market share, key component suppliers, and Taiwanese enterprises running in the USA, Australia, and ASEAN countries. Experienced consulting firms specializing in sustainability and net-zero also joined the initiative. They are committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through concrete energy-saving and carbon reduction actions to mitigate environmental impact. President Tsai Ing-wen wrote down her blessing message "A better Taiwan to the World", demonstrating her determination to accelerate the transition to net-zero. She appreciated that more companies are joining the ESG advocacy, and she expresses strong confidence in Taiwan's bright future. President Tsai noted that the more companies start taking actions, the closer we can reach the target. President Tsai expects more companies to take action and to engage stakeholders in zero-carbon transformation, turning challenges into new opportunities, enabling Taiwan's industries with strong competitiveness to face the global trend of sustainable development and the requirements of green supply chains. Story continues E.SUN specially invited Helen Clarkson, CEO of The Climate Group, and Sam Kimmins, Chairman of RE100, to share their expectations and encouragement for Taiwan's sustainable development through video. Chairman of E.SUN Joseph Huang emphasized that sustainability and climate action have become a new global language. Through the collective strength of the financial sector, E.SUN aims to amplify its positive influence and expand global perspective alongside its advocacy partners, and strengthening Taiwan's sustainable competitiveness! View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230927909980/en/ Contacts Public Relations, E.SUN FHC Virginia Lin pr@esunfhc.com (+8862)2175-1335 Understanding EIX's Dividend History, Yield, Growth and Sustainability Edison International (NYSE:EIX) recently announced a dividend of $0.74 per share, payable on 2023-10-31, with the ex-dividend date set for 2023-09-28. 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 Edison International's dividend performance and assess its sustainability. Overview of Edison International Edison International is the parent company of Southern California Edison, an electric utility that supplies power to 5 million customers in a 50,000-square-mile area of Southern California, excluding Los Angeles. Edison Energy owns interests in nonutility businesses that deal in energy-related products and services. In 2014, Edison International sold its wholesale generation subsidiary Edison Mission Energy out of bankruptcy to NRG Energy. Edison International's Dividend Analysis: A Deep Dive into Performance and Sustainability Edison International's Dividend History Edison International has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 2004. Dividends are currently distributed on a quarterly basis. Edison International has increased its dividend each year since 2003. 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 20 years. Edison International's Dividend Analysis: A Deep Dive into Performance and Sustainability Edison International's Dividend Yield and Growth As of today, Edison International currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 4.46% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 4.51%. This suggests an expectation of increase dividend payments over the next 12 months. Over the past three years, Edison International's annual dividend growth rate was 4.70%. Extended to a five-year horizon, this rate decreased to 4.50% per year. And over the past decade, Edison International's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at 8.70%. Story continues Based on Edison International's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of Edison International stock as of today is approximately 5.56%. Edison International's Dividend Analysis: A Deep Dive into Performance and Sustainability Is Edison International's Dividend Sustainable? 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, Edison International's dividend payout ratio is 1.17, suggesting that the company's dividend may not be sustainable. Edison International's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks Edison International's profitability 7 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. Edison International's Growth Metrics To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. Edison International's growth rank of 7 out of 10 suggests that the company's growth trajectory is good relative to its competitors. Revenue is the lifeblood of any company, and Edison International's revenue per share, combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate, indicates a strong revenue model. Edison International's revenue has increased by approximately 7.50% per year on average, a rate that underperforms than approximately 51.23% 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, Edison International's earnings increased by approximately -24.90% per year on average, a rate that underperforms than approximately 88.78% of global competitors. Concluding Thoughts Edison International's consistent dividend payment history and its growth rate are commendable. However, the high payout ratio and the underperformance in EPS growth rate compared to global competitors raise concerns about the sustainability of its dividends. While the company's profitability rank and growth rank suggest good prospects, investors should 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. Limited Edition Bone Bottle Haunts the Shelves Just in Time for Halloween TORONTO, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Crystal Head Vodka, an ultra-premium vodka brand, announced today the return of its limited-edition Bone bottle in celebration of Halloween. Showcasing a bone-replicated design created with an eerie yet elegant decorative finish, Crystal Head Vodka continues to celebrate the creative spirit just in time for the spooky season. Crystal Head Vodka's Limited Edition Bone Bottle Known for its signature skull-shaped bottle, harboring the purest, smoothest vodka with one-of-a-kind packaging and imaginative thinking, Crystal Head's Bone bottle's artistic and skeletal design offers a distinctive consumer experience: a smooth and delicious vodka ideally fit for Halloween-themed cocktails and the perfect spooky season bar cart addition. Initially launched in 2019, the 2023 release will offer a super-limited run of 4,500 cases total of Bone bottles globally. The 2023 Bone bottle displays a chalky white ceramic coating that mimics the look of bone to artistically house Crystal Head's original Canadian corn-based vodka, crafted from Canadian peaches and cream corn that offers neutral grain aromas with a delicate touch of citrus. Silky smooth with a hint of sweetness and vanilla that ends with a sweet, creamy finish, the award-winning spirit is sugar-free, gluten-free, and seven times filtered through Herkimer diamonds to ensure a premium drinking experience. "We're bringing the Bone bottle back just in time for Halloween, celebrating the fusion of Crystal Head's craftsmanship and creative mystique," said Dan Aykroyd, Crystal Head Vodka founder, actor and musician. "Our 2023 launch is bigger and better, as we've expanded the Bone bottle's availability globally in response to its success in 2019 and consumer demand. This one-of-a-kind bottle design represents our brand's quintessential commitment to merging artistic expression and fun, allowing consumers to celebrate the Halloween season with our smooth, decadent vodka and utilize the Bone bottle as epic decor." Story continues Launched in limited quantity, Crystal Head Vodka's "Bone" bottle is 750 ml and available in select markets for a limited time. Must be 21 or older to purchase. For more information about Crystal Head Vodka, visit crystalheadvodka.com or on social media @crystalheadvodka. About Crystal Head Vodka Multi-award-winning, ultra-premium Crystal Head Vodka was created by actor Dan Aykroyd and renowned artist John Alexander, who designed the iconic skull bottle to symbolize life, reflecting power and enlightenment. Creativity is at the heart of Crystal Head Vodka, with the desire to inspire those who think differently and encourage their creative pursuits. Crystal Head Vodka uses only the highest-quality ingredients and pristine water from Newfoundland, Canada, to create unique, additive-free, ultra-premium vodka expressions. As a distinctive finishing touch, Crystal Head Vodka is filtered through layers of Herkimer Diamonds. Crystal Head Vodka produces three expressions of vodka: original, made from locally sourced Canadian corn, Aurora, crafted from English wheat, and Onyx, crafted with Blue Weber Agave sourced from a single farm in Mexico. Crystal Head Vodka is now sold in over 75 countries around the world. For more information, visit crystalheadvodka.com. Crystal Head Vodka Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/eerie-yet-elegant-crystal-head-vodka-launches-specialty-bone-bottle-301939557.html SOURCE Crystal Head Vodka Here's something you don't hear often: Your utility bill could actually go down next year. Economists at the Energy Information Administration predict on average, US residential electricity prices in the US will decline by 1%. The main driver for the dip is the pullback in fuel prices used to generate electricity. Natural gas futures (NG=F) are down about 34% year to date, hovering just below $3 per million British thermal units (MMBtu). "There's usually a lag between when costs are incurred and when they ultimately get passed on to retail customers," said Tyler Hodge, senior economist at the EIA. The delay can be 12 months or longer. Understandably, a 1% drop in electricity costs for households may not feel like a lot, especially given the more than 60% decline in natural gas prices from their 2022 peak of $9.29 MMBtu. Linemen work on electricity poles Aug. 13, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii, following a deadly wildfire that caused heavy damage days earlier. (Rick Bowmer/AP Photo, File) "Electric utilities have to cover their cost of providing electricity to retail customers. So there's a lot of different costs built into those retail rates," said Hodge, adding that they include expenditures in delivering through transmission lines and investments in renewable technologies. "That's one of the reasons we're not seeing larger declines in residential prices, because of those infrastructure factors," added Hodge. Not everyone agrees with the EIA forecast. Ed Hirs, economist and energy fellow at the University of Houston, doubts residents will get to see a fall in prices. I am not optimistic about that. I expect utility bills to increase primarily because of the aging infrastructure of coal and natural gas fired power plants, Hirs told Yahoo Finance. He highlights that investors are reluctant to invest in new plants in order to backstop rising electricity prices. "There's no return on capital," said Hirs."Nobody wants to invest without getting paid." Residential electricity prices generally tend to rise from year to year. Story continues In fact the last time households saw an average decline in their utility costs was in 2016. The time before that was in 2002. Even during the Great Recession, the average price of electricity in the US didn't fall. This year, residents in the US are expected to see an average increase of 4% in their utility bills, with some regions experiencing more of an impact than others. Likewise, not all areas of the US are expected to feel cost relief next year, according to EIA data. Residential utility prices are expected to increase 4% in Oregon, Washington, and California. Meanwhile, New England could see a 2% decline in the average price for electricity. Keep in mind that comes after a 16% increase this year. The eastern north central part of the US such as Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan, along with south Atlantic states such as Maryland, North Carolina, and South Carolina, are also expected to see prices fall by 2.5% and 3.7% respectively. The spread among all areas is between a decline of 3% and an increase of 4%, for an average of -1%. Ines Ferre is a senior business reporter for Yahoo Finance. Follow her on Twitter at @ines_ferre. Click here for the latest economic news and indicators to help inform your investing decisions. Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) A new law in California will raise the minimum wage for fast food workers to $20 per hour next year, an acknowledgment from the state's Democratic leaders that most of the often overlooked workforce are the primary earners for their low-income households. When it takes effect on April 1, fast food workers in California will have the highest guaranteed base salary in the industry. The states minimum wage for all other workers $15.50 per hour is already among the highest in the United States. Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the law Thursday amid a throng of cheering workers and labor leaders at an event in Los Angeles. Newsom dismissed the popular view that fast food jobs are meant for teenagers to have their first experience in the workforce. That's a romanticized version of a world that doesn't exist, Newsom said. We have the opportunity to reward that contribution, reward that sacrifice and stabilize an industry. Newsoms signature reflects the power and influence of labor unions in the nations most populous state, which have worked to organize fast food workers in an attempt to improve their wages and working conditions. It also settles for now, at least a fight between labor and business groups over how to regulate the industry. In exchange for higher pay, labor unions have dropped their attempt to make fast food corporations liable for the misdeeds of their independent franchise operators in California, an action that could have upended the business model on which the industry is based. The industry, meanwhile, has agreed to pull a referendum related to worker wages off the 2024 ballot. That was a tectonic plate that had to be moved, Newsom said, referring to what he said were the more than 100 hours of negotiations it took to reach an agreement on the bills in the final weeks of the state legislative session. Mary Kay Henry, president of the Service Employees International Union International, said the law capped 10 years of work including 450 strikes across the state in the past two years. The moment was almost too much for Anneisha Williams, who held back tears as she spoke during a news conference just before Newsom signed the bill. Williams, a mother of six seven if you count her beloved dog works at a Jack in the Box restaurant in Inglewood. Theyve been with me on the picket line, and theyve been marching with me as well, Williams said of her children. This is for them. Newsom signing the law could win back some favor with organized labor, who sharply criticized him last week for vetoing a separate bill aimed at protecting the jobs of truck drivers amid the rise of self-driving technology. Unions have played a big part in Newsom's political rise in California, offering a reliable source of campaign cash. Newsoms appearance in Los Angeles comes a day after Republican presidential candidates but not Donald Trump appeared at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley for their second televised debate. Newsom, while denying any interest in a White House run, has positioned himself as a foil to GOP contenders and has traveled the country to criticize conservative positions on abortion and gun rights. His actions on hundreds of bills before him may be viewed through the lens of his future political ambitions. The new minimum wage for fast food workers will apply to restaurants with at least 60 locations nationwide, with an exception for restaurants that make and sell their own bread, like Panera Bread. Right now, Californias fast food workers earn an average of $16.60 per hour, or just over $34,000 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Thats below the California Poverty Measure for a family of four, a statistic calculated by the Public Policy Institute of California and the Stanford Center on Poverty and Equality that accounts for housing costs and publicly-funded benefits. The new $20 minimum wage is just a starting point. The law creates a Fast Food Council that has the power to increase that wage each year through 2029 by 3.5% or the change in averages for the U.S. Consumer Price Index for urban wage earners and clerical workers, whichever is lower. Now, the focus will shift to another group of low-wage California workers waiting for their own minimum wage increase. Lawmakers passed a separate bill earlier this month that would gradually raise the minimum wage for health care workers to $25 per hour over the next decade. That raise wouldnt apply to doctors and nurses, but to most everyone else who works at hospitals, dialysis clinics or other health care facilities. But unlike the fast food wage increase which Newsom helped negotiate the governor has not said if he would sign the raise for health care workers. The issue is complicated by the states Medicaid program, which is the main source of revenue for many hospitals. The Newsom administration has estimated the wage increase would cost the state billions of dollars in increased payments to health care providers. Labor unions that support the wage increase point to a study from the University of California-Berkeley Labor Center that said the states costs would be offset by a reduction in the number of people relying on publicly funded assistance programs. Associated Press reporter Michael R. Blood contributed from Los Angeles. "Every day, I walk in this place I have confidence. You know why? Because we're America," Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy told reporters Wednesday. "We will solve the problems before us and everyday will be better than the day before. Some days you stumble and some days you get better." McCarthy is hopeful a deal will be made by the Oct. 1 deadline. If not, the country faces a government shutdown that could mean a lot of people without paychecks. "Most of the people who will lose their jobs or at least be on furlough will be those at discretionary sites, that's sites that don't actually have to be open, so jobs that might be considered extra will also be shut down for at least sometime," said Tim Blessing, professor of history at Alvernia University. That means any non-essential government job and Blessing said that's more than one might think. The U.S. government is the largest employer in the country. "I would say about 20% of the money that flows into the economy directly from the government is not going to be there within four or five weeks," Blessing said. He said the government would have only a couple weeks to continue services like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), housing assistance and even school lunches before the money would run dry. It would also cause the shutdown of government-run sites like Hopewell Furnace in Berks County. "They might be able to go a week or two on the money they have already, but it won't be much more than that," said Blessing. A government shutdown would also have an effect on travel as the Transportation Security Administration would have to cut back on employees. However, one thing Blessing says won't be cut back is social security checks. "Social security payments are automatic," he said. "They cost very, very little to actually make." Still, Blessing says if a shutdown does happen, the economic effects could last for a long time. SHOEMAKERSVILLE, Pa. - A Berks County woman is accused of stealing money over the course of several years from the Perry Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). "We had on September 11th, some officers from the Perry Elementary Parent Teacher Organization came to Hamburg to report, to discuss unauthorized transactions on their account," said Trooper David Beohm of the Pennsylvania State Police. The Pennsylvania State Police said through a self audit of bank records, officers with the Perry Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization discovered a significant amount of unauthorized transactions made by former officer 39-year-old Alison Haines. According to court documents, the transactions total more than $51,000. "Through the investigation, it was learned that one of the former officers had a debit card assigned to her and she then made multiple purchases from 2019 up until now," said Trooper Beohm. According to court documents, she withdrew money from ATMs and shopped at stores. "Some of them were for, was at the Walmart in Hamburg and the Aldi and Amazon," said Trooper Beohm. According to court documents, Haines admitted to using the debit card for personal reasons. The Parent Teacher Organization tells us it has no comment. Haines is free on $7,500 unsecured bail. She has a preliminary hearing scheduled for October 30. DERRY TWP., Pa - It's tech that helped track a convicted murderer. "That's when we got the ground units in, we say 'Hey, there's something here go take a look at it,' said Cpl. James Erme, a pilot with the Pennsylvania State Police. State Police at the academy are giving an inside look at one of the helicopters from the Reading Regional Airport launch pad that helped in the Danelo Cavalcante manhunt. My unit was the first one to get called to the Chester County manhunt search, said Sgt. Brian Kunes, a State Police helicopter pilot. When we got the call, we were there in about 25 minutes." One of the state police pilots talked to us about the convenience of flying out of the Reading Regional Airport location and that's exactly where this helicopter is headed back to. "The Reading area, we determined over the past several years, is a great location to service a lot of where our calls have ultimately come in, Kunes explained. When it comes to searches, timing is everything, and trained Berks police both on the ground and the air played a big role in this manhunt. "We're looking for a short response time, Kunes said. Primarily, a number of our calls come in the Bucks County area, or Reading, Berks County for instance, then it will be a short response time by basing a unit at Reading airport." The helicopter is loaded with gear like Forward Looking Infrared cams, a spotlight and a speaker, that police say was used to broadcast a message from Cavalcante's mother in Portuguese. "We gather the good and the bad and we meet afterwards to ultimately say what was good and what was bad and what can we improve, Kunes said. You all heard about these elements of the story when it was happening, now you're seeing them up close. And police say they're ready for the next one. U. MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. - Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin said a man who was convicted in a deadly 2021 crash in Upper Macungie Township has learned his sentence. Jonathan A. Richards, 41, was sentenced to serve 6 to 15 years in prison, according to a news release from the Lehigh County District Attorney's Office. Richards, of Shillington, Pennsylvania, was convicted on Aug. 3, 2023 after a jury trial before Honorable Anna-Kristie M. Marks, the DA said. Richards was convicted of all counts, including homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence, a third-degree felony, and involuntary manslaughter, a first-degree misdemeanor, according to the DA's office. Around 4:41 a.m. Jan. 17, 2021, Upper Macungie Township Police were called to a two-vehicle crash on Hamilton Boulevard at Farmington Road. The victim, Wadnor Jean Louis, was found dead inside his vehicle and the second driver, identified as Richards, was seriously injured and taken to Lehigh Valley Hospital, the DA's office said. The DA's office says Louis died from multiple blunt force injuries and his death was ruled accidental by the Lehigh County Coroner. Video surveillance showed that Richards Jeep was traveling northbound in the southbound lanes when it struck Louis vehicle nearly head on, according to the DA's office. According to the DA's office, Richards blood-alcohol level was 0.24 percent at the time of the crash. EASTON, Pa. - Easton Police Department is looking for five officers to add to the force. That will account for retirements, plus three new roles focused on community patrol. "This is our computer-automated dispatch," said Easton Police Officer Chris Webb. "When someone calls 911, the call will be put up on the screen." Webb says he enjoys handling the variety of calls he answers in Easton. "There's a little bit of everything here," said Webb. "We're a larger department for the area but small on a national scale," said Easton Police Lt. Joe Alonzo. Like departments across the country, EPD is looking for more manpower. "Last year, we tested and for us to test within the next year, that has never happened before. Usually, we have a long list of applicants, very qualified applicants and we had blown through the list fairly quickly," said Alonzo. "When communities advertise for police officers, we're about 25% of applicants now compared to what we were just a few years ago," said Gregory Bean, the testing coordinator at the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association. A recent survey by the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association shows two in three police chiefs have intensified recruitment efforts. Some are making changes to application requirements or pairing recruits with officers. Others are focused on highlighting the positives of a profession that's been under scrutiny. "It's a daily event where I get an email or a call saying, 'how do we advertise?" Bean said. "We advertised for 225 last year, and that was four times more than we saw just a few years before that." Bean says candidates with families in policing or who always knew they wanted to pursue the profession are applying, but the candidates scanning a whole bunch of jobs are applying less. "It's important for our communities to know that the position that jobs are still, it's a very fulfilling and honorable position," said Bean. "It's a great profession. Here, what we offer is a great work-life balance, the way we run our schedules, how much time you have off, the ability to go to college and get paid to do that," said Alonzo. Alonzo says there are lots of opportunities for training. Easton has a simulator at its station that puts officers through real-life scenarios. Departments throughout the area use it. It also has an indoor shooting range. "A lot of those trainings that on the national level they've been trying to implicate, we've been doing for years, if not decades," said Alonzo. "We're always looking to the future and trying to adapt." Easton's applications are due Oct. 6. Testing is Oct. 13. "We need people that do have that high moral character, that are going to do the right thing," said Alonzo. "They could apply through the city of Easton website, and you go on the jobs tab." "They say if you find something you love to do, you never work a day in your life. I really don't feel like I work a day in my life," said Webb. ALLENTOWN, Pa. The Lehigh County Board of Commissioners Wednesday was again called to action by parents, residents and victims of alleged "medical kidnapping" by Lehigh Valley Health Network. "Stop passing the buck and pushing the paperwork along, and do something, really do something," a resident said. Lehigh County Controller Mark Pinsley also urged action. He recently released a report that claims a "systemic overdiagnosis" of medical child abuse in the Lehigh Valley. While the report does not name specific facilities complicit in the overdiagnosis, LVHN's John Van Brakle Child Advocacy Center located at 1627 W. Chew St. in Allentown is the only facility in the area that manages such child abuse cases. Specifically, the report references child abuse by parents or adults suffering from Munchausen syndrome by proxy, or MSBP. MSBP is an extremely rare mental condition in which parents or adults falsely convince children they suffer serious illnesses. Pinsley said he was at Wednesday's board meeting to remind the board that it could engage an independent third party to investigate the allegations. "You already know you can do this," Pinsley said. During his comment, he also balked at prior statements that he had been delaying the release of the information and was waiting for an opportune time. Instead, he said, he wanted to move forward to remedy a problem that has affected many. "I'm hoping we can actually work in a bipartisan way to do something," Pinsley said. While not directly addressing Pinsley, Commissioner Ron Beitler lauded the board for its bipartisan approach to working relationships. "(Partisanship) has decidedly not been my experience on this board," Beitler said. Following Pinsley's comments, a host of residents, children and parents testified on their experiences with alleged "medical kidnapping." "I had a normal life before this happened," an audience member told the governing body. "I will never be the same. I wish I could go back to my childhood before any of this happened to me." The speaker alleged that he was refused medicine and was accused of making false allegations of illness. Willow Feeney, who alleges that she was a medical kidnapping victim, called upon the commissioners to act, too. "What we need is a leader to step forward and say that this won't happen in Lehigh County," she said. Another resident talked about bringing his baby to LVHN's emergency room because he and his wife saw a cluster of worrying bruises on the child. He said the baby was X-rayed 25 times to find evidence of abuse, but none was found. "(We) did not receive care and compassion," the parent said. "Instead, we were left with allegations of abuse." Later, it was determined that the charges were unfounded, he said, and he called on the commissioners to take action and reform the system where he says children can be taken from their parents with no evidence. "Lehigh County has the opportunity to lead the charge," he said. Comments Wednesday echoed those of an Aug. 23 Lehigh County Board of Commissioners meeting, during which dozens of families spoke out against Lehigh Valley Health Network and the hospital's treatment of children. As with the August meeting, many families accused LVHN pediatrician Dr. Debra Esernio-Jenssen and her associates of intentionally perpetrating false MSBP diagnoses when they took their children to the emergency room. Such a misdiagnosis was used to turn sick children against their parents during extended, unsupervised hospital stays and/or frame said parents as child abusers, according to the families. After this, the families said the hospital would get Pennsylvania Child & Youth Services involved to remove custody of their children. "In a month, [Jenssen] tore our family apart," said one mother. "I cannot begin to explain the agony and trauma we experienced as a family." Following public comment, Commissioner Geoff Brace told the audience that he had been taking notes and that those notes would be incorporated into conversations with colleagues and the county department of law. At the board's Sept. 14 meeting, Brace said he had inquired about the board's ability to "create policies independent of state and federal law." Wednesday, the board discussed how they might pay for a third-party investigator and said they would pursue grants to fund the action. 69 News reached out to LVHN for comment ahead of families protesting the health network last Sunday. At that time, LVHN said it stands behind its recent statements. One of those statements said, in part: "The Lehigh County Controller has no jurisdiction over the John Van Brakle Child Advocacy Center, nor the clinical credentials to conduct a review of a clinician or the services rendered by a clinician and we disagree wholeheartedly with the controller's conclusions being shared with the media." The statement also said Jenssen did not initiate child abuse cases and that cases of suspected abuse are referred to the advocacy center through the state reporting system. LVHN said Jenssen and her medical team collaborated with the child's medical team, and the vast majority of the time, they do not find evidence of child abuse. Other news In other news, the board voted to reappoint Sean D. Pressman to the Lehigh County General Purpose Authority. His term will expire May 31, 2028. The board also named Scott Clark as the county's risk manager. "I look forward to the opportunity to jump inprotecting everyone from top to bottom," he said. Additionally, the board accepted a donation by Valley Mountain Bikers of three years of maintenance services for the Jack O'Diamonds bike trail at Trexler Nature Preserve. The donation allows for maintenance services for an initial period of three years, with the first maintenance to occur in fall of 2023 and the final maintenance to occur in spring of 2026. WASHINGTON - A man from the Lehigh Valley convicted of assaulting law enforcement during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol learned his sentence Tuesday. Craig Michael Bingert, 32, of Allentown, was sentenced to eight years in prison, 36 months of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution, according to a news release from the Department of Justice. Isaac Steve Sturgeon, 34, of Dillon, Montana, was also sentenced Tuesday for his actions on Jan. 6. He was sentenced to 72 months in prison, 36 months of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution, the DOJ said. The DOJ says their actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election. U.S. District Court Judge Royce C. Lamberth sentenced both Bingert and Sturgeon. Judge Lamberth convicted the pair following a bench trial on May 24, 2023, of seven charges, including obstruction of an official proceeding; assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers; civil disorder, all felonies; entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds; disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds; engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds; and engaging in an act of physical violence in the grounds or any of the Capitol buildings. According to evidence presented at trial and court documents, Bingert and Sturgeon traveled separately from their respective hometowns to Washington, D.C., to attend the Stop the Steal rally on Jan. 6, 2021, and later marched toward the U.S. Capitol building, according to the news release. Acting independently, the two made their way onto the restricted grounds of the Capitol and joined the mob on the West Front at the base of the inaugural stage, the DOJ said. Soon, the mob reached its full strength, violently breaking down the police line and forcing the officers to retreat, according to the DOJ. After the officers were forced up the southwest stairs under the scaffolding, the DOJ says Bingert and Sturgeon followed only minutes later. The DOJ says the duo then climbed through the inaugural stage scaffolding, up the southwest stairs, and made their way to the front of the mob at the top of the stairs, where police had formed a line behind a row of bike racks being used as a barricade to defend the Capitol. At approximately 2:45 p.m., Bingert and Sturgeon stood side-by-side directly in front of the bike racks and police at the top of the southwest stairs, the DOJ said. According to the DOJ, the pair and others grabbed the metal bike rack in front of them and pushed it hard against the police, resulting in injury to at least one officer. Both men remained on the Upper West Terrace for at least two hours after this assault, watching the brutal attacks on the police occurring on the Lower West Terrace below them, according to the DOJ. The DOJ says they both remained on restricted grounds until police forcibly removed them. In the 32 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,100 people have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 396 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony, the DOJ said. The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov. EASTON, Pa. The South Third Street Intermodal Garage will have new parking equipment after receiving Easton City Council approval Wednesday night at City Hall. "This will give us a ticket in and a ticket out," Mayor Sal Panto said prior to the vote. "You will no longer have the license plate having to be parked forward...It will still be easy to use the credit card...In my view, it is money well spent." The deal, with Flash Parking, is worth $189,756.50. Easton mayor gives update on hydropower lease for Hugh Moore Park Green energy shouldn't cost any extra green for Easton residents, Mayor Sal Panto said during Easton City Council's meeting Wednesday night. In other news, council approved a lease agreement with New England Hydropower Co. The deal involves the construction and operation of a small, low-impact emission-free hydroelectric generation project for Hugh Moore Park. In other business, the legislative body created a load and unload zone on the west side of the 100 block of South 11th Street. The zone would be last from 9 a.m. through 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Finally, Panto noted during his report the city has received complaints from residents about parking on Wood Avenue. "We resolved that today with the contractors," Panto said. "The medians that will be on Wood Avenue will not eliminate as many parking spaces because they will be cut in half. They will be cut down from 15 to 20 feet instead of 35 to 40 feet." The city began a nearly $1.8 million rehabilitation project on the avenue on Sept. 5. Company Logo European Recombinant Protein Manufacturing Services Market European Recombinant Protein Manufacturing Services Market Dublin, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Europe Recombinant Protein Manufacturing Services Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Service Type (Pre-clinical & Clinical), By Host Cell (Mammalian, Bacterial), By End-use, By Country, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 - 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Europe recombinant protein manufacturing services market size is expected to reach USD 3.26 billion in 2030, growing at 14.88% CAGR from 2023 to 2030 Recombinant proteins have many applications in the field of biotechnology research and medicine. Furthermore, recombinant protein manufacturing is one of the effective procedures utilized in the life sciences sector, which significantly impacts advanced healthcare. Proteins are altered using specific procedures to produce recombinant proteins. These recombinant proteins are then encoded by genes to produce massive amounts of protein, which are then utilized to manufacture therapeutic products. Increased government initiatives and investment in the field of life sciences are likely to drive Europe recombinant protein manufacturing services industry expansion. In addition, the growing demand and complexity of manufacturing laws & regulations and the rising maintenance cost of GMP certification at sites are driving the adoption of outsourced manufacturing & packaging models. Outsourcing is also enabling companies to release capital and cut overhead costs. Furthermore, the biotech companies in the UK are outperforming their European peers in terms of securing early-stage funding. From 2018 to 2020, biotech start-ups in the country raised USD 3.6 billion, a 20% increase from the amount raised from 2015 to 2017. As a result, the R&D services landscape in the country is expected to witness significant growth in the coming decade. In Europe, several leading companies offer recombinant protein production services, including Lonza; GenScript; Merck KGaA; Kaneka Eurogentec S. A.; ExcellGene SA., and others, creating growth prospects for outsourcing activities. Key players in the region are expanding their manufacturing capabilities to cater to the growing outsourcing demand in Europe. For instance, in October 2022, Merck KGaA opened a new commercial facility for its Millipore CTDMO Services in Martillac, France. The new 2,700 sq. m. facility was built for producing drug substances, including monoclonal antibodies and other recombinant proteins. Similarly, in August 2019, Fujifilm acquired Biogen's Denmark-based biologics manufacturing site for around USD 890 million. Such initiatives are expected to create lucrative growth opportunities in the recombinant protein manufacturing services industry over the coming decade. Although the presence of strong regulations helps safeguard patient health and safety, it may lead to delayed approvals, high manufacturing costs, and challenges in compliance, which may hamper the development of recombinant protein-based products, limiting the growth of manufacturing services. Europe Recombinant Protein Manufacturing Services Market Report Highlights Story continues By service type, the commercial production services segment accounted for the largest share of 58.82% in 2022. This attributed to the growing accessibility of high-yield expression systems By host cell, the mammalian segment accounted for the largest share of 54.70% in 2022. The market is expanding due to growing demand for mammalian cells from pharmaceutical and biotech companies By end-use, the pharmaceutical & biotechnology companies segment accounted for the largest share of 78.79% in 2022. Recombinant proteins have gained immense traction in the biotechnology & pharmaceutical industries, wherein they can be utilized to create vaccines and treatments for various illnesses and protein manufacturing services Germany held a large share of total revenues in 2022. This is mostly due to the presence of major market participants, increased research spending, and the availability of well-established healthcare infrastructure, which is driving market growth across the region Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 98 Forecast Period 2022 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 $1.06 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $3.26 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 14.8% Regions Covered Europe Key Topics Covered: Chapter 1. Methodology and Scope 1.1. Market Segmentation and Scope 1.2. Market Definitions 1.3. Research Assumptions 1.4. Information Procurement Chapter 2. Executive Summary 2.1. Market Snapshot 2.2. Segment Snapshot 2.3. Competitive Landscape Snapshot Chapter 3. Market Variables, Trends, & Scope 3.1. Market Lineage Outlook 3.1.1. Parent Market Outlook 3.1.2. Related/Ancillary Market Outlook 3.2. Market Trends and Outlook 3.3. Market Dynamics 3.3.1. Increasing adoption of outsourcing models for recombinant protein manufacturing 3.3.2. The increasing scope of applications for recombinant protein-based products 3.3.3. Increasing the use of recombinant proteins in research-use activities 3.4. Market Restraint Analysis 3.4.1. Stringent regulations associated with recombinant protein-based biopharmaceuticals 3.5. Business Environment Analysis 3.5.1. SWOT Analysis; By Factor (Political & Legal, Economic And Technological) 3.5.2. Porter's Five Forces Analysis 3.6. COVID-19 Impact Analysis Chapter 4. Service Type Business Analysis 4.1. Europe Recombinant Protein Manufacturing Services Market: Service Type Movement Analysis 4.2. Pre-clinical & Clinical Services 4.3. Commercial Production Services Chapter 5. Host Cell Business Analysis 5.1. Europe Recombinant Protein Manufacturing Services Market: Host Cell Movement Analysis 5.2. Mammalian Cells 5.3. Bacterial Cells 5.4. Insect Cells 5.5. Yeast & Fungi Chapter 6. End-use Business Analysis 6.1. Europe Recombinant Protein Manufacturing Services Market: End-use Movement Analysis 6.2. Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies 6.3. Academic & Research Institutes Chapter 7. Country Business Analysis 7.1. Europe Recombinant Protein Manufacturing Services Market Share By Country, 2022 & 2030 7.2. Europe 7.2.1. Europe Recombinant Protein Manufacturing Services Market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million) Chapter 8. Competitive Landscape 8.1. Company Categorization 8.2. Strategy Mapping 8.3. Company Profiles/Listing 8.3.1. Lonza 8.3.1.1. Overview 8.3.1.2. Financial Performance (Net Revenue/Sales/EBITDA/Gross Profit) 8.3.1.3. Product Benchmarking 8.3.1.4. Strategic Initiatives 8.3.2. Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH 8.3.3. FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies 8.3.4. Merck KGaA 8.3.5. Bruker (InVivo BioTech Services GmbH) 8.3.6. Sino Biological, Inc. 8.3.7. GenScript 8.3.8. Kaneka corporation (Kaneka Eurogentec S.A) 8.3.9. Polyplus Transfection (Xpress Biologics) 8.3.10. Boster Biological Technology 8.3.11. Trenzyme GmbH For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/n2ygqx 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 ALLENTOWN, Pa. - Students at William Allen High School said they were shaken up Wednesday afternoon, after police said a student had a loaded gun inside the school on Monday. "Very unsafe," Jiala Williams, a senior at the school, said. "Like, I don't want to go to school." Some students tell 69 News they had already heard about the incident. Others were just learning of it for the first time. "If a student was found with a firearm," Mya, another student, said. "Don't bring guns to school. Amen." Security personnel on Monday found a loaded handgun in a 15-year-old student's possession inside the school, police said on Wednesday. According to the Allentown Police Department, several students were caught smoking in a school bathroom during school hours around 9 a.m. on Monday. One 15-year-old male student was found to have a loaded handgun as well as some marijuana, police said. "Horrible," Silvana Viojo, a parent of two Allen High students, said. "You think that your kids are safe at school. And they are not." "I'm just so worried about that," Ernesto Lopez, another Allen High School parent, said. That 15-year-old boy was arrested and charged with one felony - carrying a firearm without a license - as well as four misdemeanors, including possession of a weapon on school property and possession of a small amount of marijuana. "Do I feel safe? Yeah. I mean, there's a lot of security police officers here," Bryce, another student, said. "There's some stuff that they could work on, but overall, sometimes I do feel safe," Williams said. Students gave 69 News mixed reviews about how safe they feel in the school. "It's mainly just like just security with the people leaving in and out in the buildings," Williams said. "Because if people want, they can come back in. And actually, I don't think that's safe at all." The District's superintendent, Dr. Carol D. Birks, in a statement, commended the school's administration, safety officers and School Resource Officer for their vigilance, quick response and following safety protocol. "We continue to strengthen safety measures," Birks said, adding the district met with the mayor and Allentown police chief to outline future steps together. Birks also said the district, along with police and City of Allentown, will be looking for feedback from the community as they consider installing metal detectors. Parents speaking with 69 News say they like the idea of metal detectors. "I feel like, yeah, they need to invest in metal detectors, because it can happen," Silvana Viojo said. Viojo says her New Jersey high school had metal detectors back in 2005 when she went to school. And she believes they work. "Because they were able to catch like, students with the knife, with the guns, all of that, yeah," she said. "I think it's going to help a lot," parent Ernesto Lopez said. "We're going to have a plan." This comes almost exactly one year after another loaded gun incident at the same school. On September 15, 2022, Allentown Police responded to the West Park area at Linden Street for a report of "shots fired" and a person with a weapon, according to the Lehigh County District Attorney's Office. Nearly a week later, authorities said the person with the weapon was actually a student at William Allen High School and had entered the school with the loaded weapon that same day. Parents tell 69 News they appreciated quicker transparency this time around. "They have to like, notify people like right away," Viojo said. "Because you send your kids to school, your think that they're safe, but they're not." Wawa's expansion into the Midwest now totals 160 stores across Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio. The Pennsylvania-based convenience-store chain said in December that those three states were part of its long-term plans. The privately held company has been on a swing through the states this week, announcing plans for 40 stores in Kentucky on Tuesday, 60 in Ohio on Wednesday and 60 in Indiana on Thursday. That adds up to a lot of hoagies and coffee given away as Wawa introduces itself to new markets. On Thursday, Wawa's giveaway was held at the NCAA headquarters and museum in Indianapolis as it announced the new stores. Director of Store Operations Joe Collins said ground will be broken on stores next year with openings planned in 2025. Wawa has several sites under contract already and is looking for more in the Hoosier State. Its goal is to open 10 stores there in 2025, 10 in 2026, and five annually through the eight- to ten-year expansion. The chain also plans to open its first Ohio and Kentucky stores in 2025. The convenience-store chain's Lehigh Valley expansion continues, including stores in the works in Bethlehem, Bethlehem Township, Hanover Township and Allen Township. Wawa's headquarters is in Delaware County. The company started in 1803 as an iron foundry, and became a dairy business. The first Wawa Food Market opened in 1964. There are now more than 1,000 across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Florida and Washington, D.C. PHILADELPHIA - Looters in Philadelphia were breaking into stores and swiping merchandise Tuesday hours after a judge dropped charges against a police officer who shot and killed a Philadelphia man. A peaceful protest followed. "This had nothing to do with the protest, but we had tonight was a bunch of criminal opportunists take advantage of the situation and make an attempt to destroy our city," said Interim Philadelphia Police Chief John Stanford shortly after the incident. Police say it was a coordinated effort, and that around 100 people participated in the looting, many capturing the frenzy on their cell phones and posting it on social media. Police say that was helpful in arresting 52 people believed to be involved. The looting is now a hot topic with Lehigh Valley security experts. Omega Protective Services in Bethlehem has several clients in the area of Philadelphia where the looting happened. President and CEO Greg Kuhn says large-scale retail thefts like this and other incidents including recent Ulta grab and dash thefts in Lehigh County are becoming a frightening trend. "The key is providing a visual deterrent, being a good witness, being a good record keeper, if something does occur," said Kuhn. The day after the looting in Philadelphia, store workers were left with a huge mess to clean up. Police continue to investigate who was involved. BELVIDERE, N.J. - U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez of New Jersey told fellow Democrats Thursday he will not resign from office. Federal prosecutors indicted Menendez and his wife on bribery and other charges last week. Menendez met with other senators at the U.S. Capitol Thursday afternoon. They tell reporters Menendez was adamant he would not step down. After the meeting, Menendez said, "I will continue to cast votes on behalf of the people of New Jersey as I have for 18 years, and I'm sure when they need those votes, they'll be looking for it, for me to cast those votes." Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania was one of the first Democrats to call on Menendez to resign. He renewed that call Thursday. "It's so stark," said Fetterman. "He's got to go, and that arrogance where now he's saying 'I'm not going anywhere.' It's like, my dude, you are going somewhere, and it's going to be an election or it's going to be a conviction. You had the opportunity for an honorable exit." Fetterman said he wasn't interested in hearing Menendez's excuses for gold bars stuffed in a mattress, so he didn't go to that caucus meeting. Meanwhile, many Republicans are hopeful the Menendez charges will help them win back the majority in the Senate. More than half of Senate Democrats have called on Menendez to resign. The U.S. House Minority Leader is among the latest in Washington to weigh in. "It's hard for me to see how the Senator can effectively, at this moment, represent the people he's ably served for decades," said U.S. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of New York. In New Jersey, state Sen. Doug Steinhardt said, "it's appalling. I mean, that kind of conduct has no business in government. Quite frankly, it has no business in business. He has a long history. I find it hard to believe. His excuses just don't ring true to me." Steinhardt believes the charges against who he calls a corrupt senator are going to energize Republicans in the upcoming election. "The situation right now, just nationally, has more and more people paying attention," said Steinhardt. "So, the fact that we have the spotlight now shining on Senator Menendez and his conduct is wanting to force more people to get out to the polls." Assembly Republican Leader John DiMaio, who also represents District 23, is proposing a process to force Menendez out. DiMaio says when the legislature reconvenes, he plans to introduce a constitutional amendment that would suspend any indicted elected official until they're acquitted or convicted. He said, "Accusations of bribery, fraud and extortion would result in at least a suspension without pay in any other profession, but there is not a mechanism currently in place to hold elected officials to the same standard, despite the need to protect the integrity of the office or the interests of the people of New Jersey." 69 News reached out to Menendez's Office and the New Jersey Democrats and are waiting to hear back. PHILLIPSBURG, N.J. - A major renovation at a Warren County, New Jersey, social services organization has given officials the ability to serve many more hungry people - about 800,000 to be specific. Northwest New Jersey Community Action Inc. has been working on the upgrades for nearly the past year. The fruits of their labor were unveiled Wednesday. A so-called game changing renovation at Norwescap is going to help the agency feed many more hungry people. "There are over 700,000 food insecure individuals in New Jersey, and there are 7% of the residents in Hunterdon, Sussex and Warren County are food insecure, and the need is growing," explained Lisa Weber, senior director of food insecurity and health equity. She says everything from the facility's plumbing to its electrical have been upgraded. There's also a new loading dock, so even more food can be received and distributed with ease. And, perhaps most significantly, the storage capacity for nonperishables and frozen foods has more than doubled. It comes at a good time, because Weber says there's a 20% increase in need compared to this time last year. "We serve 1.6 million meals per year, and with this renovation, we expect to increase that by 40%," she added. With the improvements, she expects more than 2.2 million meals will be served, and Weber says the quality of food is also improving - more fresh produce and frozen protein. "The expensive items that we buy for ourselves in the grocery stores is what we want to be able to deliver to those in the community who are in need," said Weber. A grant from the New Jersey Department of Agriculture helped make the renovation possible. WAUKESHA, Wi. - A Wisconsin woman has beaten her own Guinness world record for having the largest collection of Winnie the Pooh memorabilia. Deb Hoffman's home in Waukesha, Wisconsin is filled with what she says is a million dollars worth of Winnie the Pooh collectables. The Guinness World Record holder has been collecting Pooh stuffed animals, keychains, even a faucet for over 20 years: "And so people say 'when are you going to stop?' I don't know that I'll ever stop because I don't want to stop having fun." says Deb Hoffman, Collector. In February Hoffman says she broke her own world record: "My last record was 20,000 in 2020 and this year in February was 23,623." Hoffman's collection has grown tremendously since she her first world record set in 2008 when she had over 3,000 Pooh items. Winnie the Pooh's name was actually inspired by a real bear named Winnie who lived at the London Zoo. "Christopher Robin Milne and A.A Milne went to the zoo and they fell in-love with the bear," explained Hoffman. Hoffman hopes to inspire others to follow their passions and hobbies says Hoffman. "If you have a passion, follow it. You don't know what tomorrow is going to bring, so if there's something that you like to do." WASHINGTON (AP) House Republicans launched a formal impeachment hearing Thursday against President Joe Biden, promising to provide accountability as they probe the family finances and lucrative business dealings of his son Hunter and make their case to the public, colleagues and a skeptical Senate. The chairmen of the Oversight, Judiciary, and Ways and Means committees used the opening hearing to review the constitutional and legal questions involved with impeachment. They are trying to show what they say are links to Biden's son Hunters overseas businesses, though key witnesses said they do not yet see hard evidence of impeachable offenses. Rep. James Comer, R-Ky, the Oversight chairman, said the lawmakers have a mountain of evidence that will show that the elder Biden abused his public office for his family's financial gain. Hours after the hearing wrapped, Comer issued subpoenas for additional banking records from the personal and business accounts of Hunter Biden and the president's brother, James Biden. He said the panel will continue to follow the money and the evidence to provide accountability. Its a high-stakes opening act for Republicans, taking place just before a potential federal government shutdown, as they begin a process that can lead to the ultimate penalty for a president, dismissal from office for what the Constitution describes as high crimes and misdemeanors. The White House pushed back with statements throughout the hearing saying nothing can distract from the Republicans inability to govern as the shutdown loomed. Spokesperson Sharon Yang called the hearing a baseless stunt and said, President Biden will always stay focused on the priorities of the American people not these political games. The more than six-hour hearing came as House Republicans face scattered resistance to an impeachment inquiry from their own ranks and deep reluctance in the Senate from Republicans who worry about political ramifications and say Bidens conviction and removal from office are unlikely. As the hearing began, Democrats displayed a screen showing the days, hours and minutes left until the government shuts down as Congress struggles to fund the government before Saturdays deadline. Were 62 hours away from shutting down the government of the United States of America and Republicans are launching an impeachment drive, based on a long debunked and discredited lie, said Rep. Jamie Raskin, the top Democrat on the Oversight panel. Raskin questioned the legitimacy of the hearing since the House has not voted to formally launch the impeachment inquiry. He said Republicans are rehashing five-year-old allegations raised by Donald Trump, who is Bidens chief rival in 2024, during the former president's 2019 impeachment over Ukraine. They dont have a shred of evidence against President Biden for an impeachable offense, he said. The hearing Thursday did not feature witnesses with information about the Bidens or Hunter Biden's business. Instead, the panel heard from outside experts in tax law, criminal investigations and constitutional legal theory. A top Republican-called witness, Jonathan Turley, a George Washington University law professor who is an expert in impeachment issues, said he believed the House had passed the threshold for an inquiry but the current evidence was not enough for charges. I do not believe that the current evidence would support articles of impeachment, Turley said. Democrats, who decry the investigation as a political ploy aimed at hurting Biden and helping Trump as he runs again for president, brought in Michael Gerhardt, a law professor who has also appeared as an expert in previous impeachment proceedings. In detailing the reasons Republicans say they have to impeach Biden, Gerhardt concluded: If thats what exists, as a basis for this inquiry, it is not sufficient. I say that with all respect. Still, questions remain as Republicans dig into the Biden family finances and the overseas business dealings of Hunter Biden, who has acknowledged being a drug user during much of the time under scrutiny. The president's brother, James, was also involved in some work with Hunter. Republicans have been investigating Hunter Biden for years, since his father was vice president. And while there have been questions raised about the ethics around the familys international business, none of the evidence so far has proven that the president, in his current or previous office, abused his role, accepted bribes or both. One former business partner of Hunter Biden has told House investigators the son was selling the illusion of access to his father. Turley told the lawmakers the question remains, Was the president involved? In the run-up to the hearing, Republicans unveiled a tranche of new documents and bank records that detail wire transfers from a Chinese businessman to Hunter Biden in 2019. Hunter Biden had listed his fathers address on the wire transfer form, which Republicans say provided a clear link to the president. Abbe Lowell, an attorney for Hunter Biden, said the address on the wire transfer, which he says was a loan, was listed to the president's Delaware home because it was the address on Hunter Biden's driver's license and "his only permanent address at the time. Once again Rep. Comer peddles lies to support a premise some wrongdoing by Hunter Biden or his family that evaporates in thin air the moment facts come out, Lowell said in a statement. House Republicans are also looking into the Justice Department investigation into Hunter Biden's taxes and gun use that began in 2018. Two IRS whistleblowers came forward to Congress in the spring with claims that department officials thwarted their efforts to fully investigate Hunter Biden and that they faced retaliation when they pushed back. The claims have since been disputed by the Department of Justice, the IRS and FBI agents who worked on the case. The Biden Justice Department protected the Biden family brand. said Rep. Jason Smith, a Missouri Republican and Ways and Means chairman. What Smith did not mention was that the discussions occurred during the Trump Justice Department and were likely in keeping with the agencys practice of avoiding overt investigative steps concerning political candidates in the immediate run-up to an election. But Republicans have pointed to a failed plea deal over the summer as proof that Hunter Biden received preferential treatment because of who his father was. They tried to put together this sweetheart deal, said Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, the Judiciary chairman. The impeachment inquiry hearing is taking place as the federal government is days away from what is likely to be a damaging government shutdown that would halt paychecks for millions of federal workers and the military and disrupt services for millions of Americans. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced the impeachment inquiry this month, egged on by Trump and with mounting pressure from his right flank to take action against Biden or risk being ousted from his leadership job. Trump is the only president to be twice impeached, first over accusations he pressured Ukraine to dig up dirt on Biden and later over accusations that he incited the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the Capitol. He was acquitted in both cases by the Senate. The hearing Thursday is expected to be the first of many as House Republicans explore whether or not they will pursue articles of impeachment against the president. It's unclear if McCarthy has support from his slim Republican majority to impeach Biden. If Biden was impeached, the charges would then be sent to the Senate for a trial. ESPANOLA, N.M. (AP) Chaos erupted Thursday as a gunshot rang out during a protest in northern New Mexico where officials had planned to install a statue of Spanish conquistador Juan de Onate, an event that county officials had already postponed anticipating that tempers would flare. One man was struck by the gunfire and rushed to the hospital as Rio Arriba County sheriffs officials took the suspected shooter, 23-year-old Ryan Martinez, into custody. Authorities said they were not currently seeking any other suspects in connection with the shooting. Onate has been a controversial figure in New Mexico's history for generations, with activists targeting the statue and other likenesses of the Spaniard for his oppressive and sometimes brutal treatment of Native Americans during his country's conquest of what is now the Southwestern United States. Some Hispanics have pointed to the statue as a symbol of their heritage. Although the county had postponed the installation of the statue the previous day because of public safety concerns, people still turned out. Protesters arrived Tuesday and pitched tents. They placed offerings on and around the empty pedestal to Onate: pottery, corn stalks, votive candles, a basket of vegetables. Banners read, not today Onate, and celebrate resistance not conquistadores. The man who would later draw and fire a gun used profanity in arguments with protesters and was told by law enforcement officers to leave. Video captured by onlookers showed the man jumping a short wall and heading toward the crowd as others grabbed him. One person yelled, Hey, hey, hey. Let him go! as he broke free and jumped back over the wall. That's when he pulled a gun from his waistband and fired a single shot before running off. Screaming ensued. One person could be heard saying, Help me! Help me! and I cant breathe. The shooting occurred just outside the doors of county offices, which include sheriff offices. More than 20 law enforcement vehicles responded, crowding an Espanola city roadway that overlooks the Upper Rio Grande Valley. The wounded man, whose name was not immediately released by authorities, was shot in the upper torso and was being treated at a local hospital, authorities said. Authorities said a motive for the shooting was unclear. Once again, the saddest part about this is we have another incident of gun violence, county Sheriff Billy Merrifield said at a brief news conference. Merrifield said he expressed concerns about safety issues to county commissioners about reinstalling the statue in Espanola outside the county building. He said he was grateful to commissioners who decided against putting up the statue. He declined to take any questions, saying New Mexico State Police were handling the crime scene and the investigation. State police didn't immediately respond to emails or phone calls Thursday night from The Associated Press seeking any information about the condition of the victim or any charges that had been filed or were pending in connection with the shooting. A dispatcher who wasn't authorized to release any information said additional details were expected to be released later Thursday night or Friday. Jennifer Marley, of San Ildefonso Pueblo, an organizer for the Native American rights group The Red Nation, said the shooting took place within view of the county sheriffs department building but without any officers on site to intervene. It was awful. This was a peaceful call to action. We were there to celebrate the fact that the statue was not going up, she said. She described Onates legacy as one of genocidal violence. Its really ironic, I was basically saying that this violence is ongoing ... even when we are being peaceful and prayerful. The shooting began while I was speaking. The shooting happened on the day the New Mexico Department of Health released a report on gunshot victims treated at New Mexicos hospitals. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham commissioned the report earlier this month, alongside issuing a public health order that temporarily suspended gun rights in the Albuquerque area over recent gun violence. A federal judge blocked aspects of it while a flurry of lawsuits alleging violations of constitutional rights played out. According to the report, there was a 16% increase in patients admitted to intensive care units for firearm injuries between 2019 and 2022. Gunshot victims transferred from emergency departments to operating rooms increased by 61% over the same time frame. The report also noted that deaths from firearm injuries between 2017 and 2021 increased among Hispanics, non-Hispanic Native Americans and non-Hispanic Black populations. Tony Ortega, a 78-year-old retired technician who worked at Los Alamos National Laboratory, said he was glad to hear the county planned to put the Onate statue back on public display as a symbol of local Hispanic pride. But he said he knew it would cause trouble. I knew this was going to be a problem. Native Americans dont want it, Ortega said. They think Onate was a bad person more or less. Onate, who arrived in present-day New Mexico in 1598, is celebrated as a cultural father figure in communities along the Upper Rio Grande that trace their ancestry to Spanish settlers. But he is also reviled for his brutality. To Native Americans, Onate is known for having ordered the right feet cut off of 24 captive tribal warriors after his soldiers stormed the Acoma Pueblos mesa-top sky city. That attack was precipitated by the killing of Onates nephew. In 1998, someone sawed the right foot off the statue of Onate near Espanola, where it had been on display until it was taken down in 2020 amid a national movement for racial justice that sought to topple countless monuments. A likeness of Onate among a caravan of Spanish colonists set in bronze outside an Albuquerque city museum also drew protests in 2020 that resulted in it being taken down. Rio Arriba County Commission Chairman Alex Naranjo, a Democratic former magistrate judge and school board member, said he is still committed to returning the statue to public display. He said the bronze likeness and companion cultural center in the nearby community of Alcalde was commissioned at a cost of more than $1 million in county, state and federal funding, in a project championed by his uncle Emilio Naranjo as a state senator and public figures including former Gov. Bill Richardson. He blamed Thursday's confrontations on disrespectful protesters from beyond the Espanola Valley, though many protesters Thursday cited local Native American ties. To me its a matter of principle, said Naranjo, who traces his ancestry to Spanish settlers who arrived in the late-1500s. I dont question anybody who disagrees with me as long as they do it in a respectful, cordial way. Associated Press writers Terry Tang and Walter Berry in Phoenix and Christopher L. Keller and Susan Montoya Bryan in Albuquerque contributed to this story. Key Insights Given the large stake in the stock by institutions, Exxon Mobil's stock price might be vulnerable to their trading decisions A total of 25 investors have a majority stake in the company with 42% ownership Insiders have been selling lately To get a sense of who is truly in control of Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM), it is important to understand the ownership structure of the business. The group holding the most number of shares in the company, around 60% to be precise, is institutions. In other words, the group stands to gain the most (or lose the most) from their investment into the company. And things are looking up for institutional investors after the company gained US$15b in market cap last week. The gains from last week would have further boosted the one-year return to shareholders which currently stand at 40%. Let's delve deeper into each type of owner of Exxon Mobil, beginning with the chart below. See our latest analysis for Exxon Mobil What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Exxon Mobil? 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 Exxon Mobil. 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 Exxon Mobil, (below). Of course, keep in mind that there are other factors to consider, too. Investors should note that institutions actually own more than half the company, so they can collectively wield significant power. Hedge funds don't have many shares in Exxon Mobil. The Vanguard Group, Inc. is currently the largest shareholder, with 9.7% of shares outstanding. BlackRock, Inc. is the second largest shareholder owning 6.8% of common stock, and State Street Global Advisors, Inc. holds about 5.1% of the company stock. Story continues 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. While studying institutional ownership for a company can add value to your research, it is also a good practice to research analyst recommendations to get a deeper understand of a stock's expected performance. Quite a few analysts cover the stock, so you could look into forecast growth quite easily. Insider Ownership Of Exxon Mobil The definition of an insider can differ slightly between different countries, but members of the board of directors always count. Company management run the business, but the CEO will answer to the board, even if he or she is a member of it. Insider ownership is positive when it signals leadership are thinking like the true owners of the company. However, high insider ownership can also give immense power to a small group within the company. This can be negative in some circumstances. Our most recent data indicates that insiders own less than 1% of Exxon Mobil Corporation. As it is a large company, we'd only expect insiders to own a small percentage of it. But it's worth noting that they own US$485m worth of shares. It is always good to see at least some insider ownership, but it might be worth checking if those insiders have been selling. General Public Ownership The general public-- including retail investors -- own 39% stake in the company, and hence can't easily be ignored. While this group can't necessarily call the shots, it can certainly have a real influence on how the company is run. Next Steps: It's always worth thinking about the different groups who own shares in a company. But to understand Exxon Mobil better, we need to consider many other factors. Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 1 warning sign with Exxon Mobil , and understanding them should be part of your investment process. But ultimately it is the future, not the past, that will determine how well the owners of this business will do. Therefore we think it advisable to take a look at this free report showing whether analysts are predicting a brighter future. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (AP) As his Republican rivals sparred onstage in California at their second primary debate, Donald Trump was in battleground Michigan Wednesday night working to win over blue-collar voters by lambasting President Joe Biden and his push for electric cars in the midst of an autoworkers strike. I will not allow under any circumstances the American automobile industry to die, Trump said at Drake Enterprises, a non-unionized auto parts supplier in Clinton Township, about a half-hour outside Detroit. The Republican front-runner's trip came a day after Biden became the first sitting president in U.S. history to walk a picket line as he joined United Auto Workers in Detroit. The dueling appearances had the feel of the opening salvo of the 2024 general election, which increasingly looks like a rematch between Trump and Biden, even though primary voting wont begin until next year. Trumps decision to skip another debate comes as he maintains a commanding lead in the GOP primary, even as he faces four separate criminal indictments in four different states. Trump, in his speech, tried to cast Biden as hostile to the auto industry and workers, using extreme rhetoric to claim the industry was being assassinated. He insisted Bidens embrace of electric vehicles a key component of his clean-energy agenda would ultimately lead to lost jobs, amplifying the concerns of some autoworkers who worry that electric cars require fewer people to manufacture and that there is no guarantee factories that produce them will be unionized. Hes selling you out to China, hes selling you out to the environmental extremists and the radical left, Trump told his crowd, flanked by American flags and pallets of auto parts. He also downplayed the strike as the UAW pushes for higher wages, shorter work weeks and assurances from the countrys top automakers that new electric vehicle jobs will be unionized. While Trump said he supported the workers and hoped they would get a good deal, he also said no deal would matter if proposed pollution limits take effect. Youre all on the picket lines and everything, but it doesnt make a damn bit of difference what you get, because in two years youre all going to be out of business, he said. While Trump has cast himself as pro-worker, he has clashed repeatedly with union leadership and tried to turn union members against their leaders. In a recent campaign video, Trump urged autoworkers not to pay union dues and claimed their leaders have got some deals going for themselves. Just hours before Trumps visit, the UAW posted a video on its Facebook page protesting factory closures by Detroits automakers that included 2017 footage of Trump telling a northern Ohio crowd that auto jobs would be coming back. Two years later, General Motors closed a huge assembly plant in Lordstown, Ohio, costing thousands of jobs. Still, Trump repeatedly urged the union to endorse him, at one point directly appealing to UAW President Shawn Fain. While the union has withheld its support for Biden after endorsing him in 2020, Fain appeared at Bidens side during his visit Tuesday and has repeatedly criticized Trump. I dont think he cares about working-class people. I think he cares about the billionaire class, he cares about the corporate interests. I think hes just trying to pander to people and say what they want to hear, and its a shame, Fain said this week. Biden's re-election campaign, in a statement, called Trump's speech a pathetic, recycled attempt to feign support for working Americans. Drake Enterprises, where Trump spoke, makes automotive and heavy-duty truck components, including gear shift levers for semi-trucks, said its president Nathan Stemple. He said a shift to electric cars would cripple his business. While Trump aides had said the audience would include several hundred current and former UAW members, as well as members of plumbers and pipefitters unions, it also included many non-union workers who support the former president. Some said they had been invited by people who did business with Drake; others said they had simply arrived at the factory Wednesday afternoon and been allowed to attend. Tony Duronio, 64, a longtime Trump supporter and real estate broker who lives in Clinton Township, said he received an invitation from a group called Autoworkers for Trump. Duronio praised the economy during Trump's time in office and echoed the former president's criticism of electric vehicles: Nobody wants em," he said and applauded Trumps decision to skip the debate. Hes the frontrunner. He doesnt have any competition," he said. Look, if it aint him, I may stay home cause the rest are no different than Biden. Trump briefly mentioned the debate happening 2,000 miles away at the Ronald Reagan presidential library, calling his GOP rivals job candidates. Theyll do anything, he said. Secretary of something. They even say VP, does anybody see any VP in the group? I dont think so. The former president has tried to use the strike to drive a wedge between Biden and union workers, a constituency that helped pave the way for his surprise 2016 victory. Trump in that election won over voters in Democratic strongholds like Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania, fundamentally reshaping voting alliances as he railed against global trade deals and vowed to resurrect dying manufacturing towns. But Biden won those states back in 2020 as he emphasized his working-class roots and commitment to organized labor. He often calls himself the most pro-union president in U.S. history and argues the investments his administration is making in green energy and electric vehicle manufacturing will ensure the future of the industry unfolds in the U.S. Theres disagreement in the auto industry over whether the shift to EVs will cost union jobs. Some executives say that because electric vehicles require fewer moving parts, companies will need 30% to 40% fewer workers to assemble them. But others say EVs will require comparable labor. The Trump campaign has vigorously defended his record as pro-worker, but union leaders say his first term was far from worker-friendly citing unfavorable rulings from the nations top labor board and the U.S. Supreme Court, as well as unfulfilled promises of automotive jobs and the closure of the Ohio GM plant. Along the picket line, workers have been split. Adrian Mitchell, who works at the GM parts warehouse that Biden visited, said he believes Biden would be better for the middle class than a second Trump term. Still, Mitchell said workers are worried the transition to electric cars may cost them jobs. It was a different scene at Trump's event, filled with MAGA hats and pro-Trump signs. Lets put it this way: Theres nothing I dont like about Trump," said Johnny Pentowski, who was a member of the Teamsters Union before he retired as a truck driver earlier this year. Pentowski, 72, who lives in Eastpointe Michigan, accused union leaders of failing to listen to their members and shared Trumps skepticism of EVs. You take away fossil fuels from a country, youre taking away its lifeblood," he said. "Windmills and solars dont do it. The UAWs targeted strikes against the Big Three automakers General Motors, Stellantis and Ford began at midnight Sept. 14 and have since expanded to 38 parts distribution centers in 20 states. The union is asking for 36% raises in general pay over four years and has also demanded a 32-hour week with 40 hours of pay and a return of cost-of-living pay raises, among other benefits. It also wants to be allowed to represent workers at 10 electric vehicle battery factories, most of which are being built by joint ventures between automakers and South Korean battery makers. While Biden has not implemented an electric vehicle mandate, he has set a goal that half of all new vehicle sales be electric by 2030. His administration has also proposed stiff new automobile pollution limits that would require up to two-thirds of new vehicles sold in the U.S. to be electric by 2032, a nearly tenfold increase over current electric vehicle sales. That proposal is not final. FDCTech, Inc. The Company plans to acquire 100% of Alchemy Markets DMCC (UAE), 100% of Alchemy Prime Ltd. (UK), and the remaining 49.90% of Alchemy Markets Ltd. (Malta). Post-merger, FDCTech shall provide global institutional liquidity and multi-asset trading solutions backed by its proprietary, regulatory-grade technology. Irvine, CA, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FDCTech, Inc. ("FDC" or the "Company," OTCQB: FDCT ), a fintech-driven company specializing in buying and integrating small to mid-size legacy financial services companies, today announced the legally binding agreement with Alchemy Group where the Company will acquire 100% of Alchemy Markets DMCC (Alchemy UAE), 100% of Alchemy Prime Ltd. (Alchemy UK), and the remaining 49.90% of Alchemy Markets Ltd. (Alchemy Malta), collectively known as Alchemy Group. The Company will issue 1,700,000 shares of its Series B Preferred stock, or such other number of shares that the parties agree upon to shareholder(s) of Alchemy Group, for the acquisition. Upon finalizing the merger, the existing management team and board of directors will continue to oversee and manage the Company's operations. This transaction is the result of extensive negotiations commencing in September 2022. The Company aims to establish a premier online trading and investment platform, targeting the European, Asian, and Australian markets. This multi-faceted acquisition strategy marks a pivotal milestone in the Company's operational history. The Company is firmly convinced that this acquisition serves the best interests of its shareholders as described below: Diversification of Services: Alchemy Markets DMCC: Primarily trades for proprietary accounts on regulated exchanges as an OTC market participant and liquidity provider for small to medium-sized online brokers in certain situations. Alchemy Prime (UK): Financial services to brokers, hedge funds, and other institutional clients in an efficient, low-cost environment regulated by the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Alchemy (Malta): Retail online brokerage services regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA). Story continues Positive Cash Flow: Alchemy Group's impressive financial performance, with over $22 million in audited revenues and a net income surpassing $12 million for fiscal 2022, should bolster the Company's financial standing and profitability. Solid Financial Position: Alchemy Group's robust balance sheet, with over $20 million in net financial assets, ensures the Company has financial stability and high creditworthiness. Geographical Expansion: Alchemy Group's diverse locations, spanning Europe, the Middle East, and other Asian regions, allow the Company to expand its global footprint, catering to a wider and more diverse clientele. Synergy and Integration: The combined expertise of FDCTech and the Alchemy Group can lead to operational efficiencies, cost savings, and the potential for innovative product and service offerings. The combined team members have financial services experience from 1978 and have successfully built nimble trading infrastructures on all major financial markets from Asia to North America. Competitive Edge: The acquisition would position the Company's regulatory grade technology and liquidity solutions as a key player for small to medium-sized brokers often overlooked by large financial institutions, giving it a competitive edge over other industry players. The Company is conducting the transaction with its in-house team, with Barnett and Linn serving as the legal adviser to the Company. The Company expects to close the transaction in the next thirty days. Please visit our SEC filings or the Company's website for more information on the full results, management's plan, and the binding letter of intent. Alchemy Markets DMCC Alchemy Markets DMCC is registered in the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, Dubai -United Arab Emirates (License no. DMCC-344359), as a Free Zone Company under the UAE Federal Commercial Company Law on September 28, 2017. Alchemy Markets DMCC primarily trades for proprietary accounts on regulated exchanges as an OTC market participant and liquidity provider for small to medium-sized online brokers in certain situations. Alchemy Markets Ltd. (previously known as NSFX Ltd.) Alchemy Markets (the "Company") is a limited liability company registered under the Companies Act, Cap 386 of the Laws of Malta, with registration number C 56519. The Malta Financial Services Authority regulates Alchemy Markets with a License Number IS/56519. Alchemy Markets is authorized to deal on its account as a Category 3 licensed entity by the MFSA, receive and transmit orders for retail and professional clients, and hold and control clients' money and assets. Alchemy Markets offers trading platform services in English, French, German, Italian, and Arabic, allowing customers to trade currencies, commodities, equities, and other derivatives in real time. Alchemy Prime Limited Alchemy Prime Limited is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, reference number 612233, in the UK. As an award-winning broker, Alchemy Prime has spent years building a deep liquidity network and investing in its pricing technology. Alchemy Prime's experience and vast network of counterparties position it to deliver customized services to brokers, hedge funds, and other institutional clients in an efficient, low-cost environment. Alchemy Prime offers strong liquidity pools, global reach, exceptionally competitive commission rates, and leverage terms. The trading and registered address is Unit 1, 74 Back Church Lane, London E1 1LX, a company registered in England and Wales with Companies House, reference number 08698974. AD Advisory Services Pty Ltd. AD Advisory Services Pty Ltd. AFSL No. 237058, an independent specialist dealer group, provides licensing solutions for select education and compliance-focused financial advisors & accountants. ADS' dedicated management team are qualified financial planners that service metro and regional practices around Australia. FDCTech, Inc. FDCTech, Inc. ("FDC") is a US-based leading developer of regulatory-grade financial technology infrastructure designed to serve the financial markets of the future. Our clients include regulated and OTC brokerages and prop and algo trading firms of all sizes in forex, stocks, CFDs, commodities, indices, ETFs, precious metals, and other asset classes. Our growth strategy involves acquiring and integrating small to mid-size legacy financial services companies, leveraging our proprietary trading technology and liquidity solutions to deliver exceptional value to our clients. Press Release Disclaimer This press release's statements may be forward-looking statements or future expectations based on currently available information. Such statements are naturally subject to risks and uncertainties. Factors such as the development of general economic conditions, future market conditions, unusual catastrophic loss events, changes in the capital markets, and other circumstances may cause the actual events or results to be materially different from those anticipated by such statements. The Company does not make any representation or warranty, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, or updated status of such forward-looking statements or information provided by the third party. Therefore, in no case will the Company and its affiliate companies be liable to anyone for any decision made or action taken in conjunction with the information and/or statements in this press release or any related damages. Contact Media Relations FDCTech, Inc. info@fdctech.com www.fdctech.com +1 877-445-6047 200 Spectrum Center Drive, Suite 300, Irvine, CA, 92618 Shares of Occidental Petroleum Co. (NYSE:OXY Get Free Report) have been assigned a consensus rating of Hold from the nineteen research firms that are covering the firm, MarketBeat Ratings reports. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell recommendation, eight have issued a hold recommendation, eight have issued a buy recommendation and one has issued a strong buy recommendation on the company. The average twelve-month price objective among analysts that have covered the stock in the last year is $70.00. OXY has been the subject of several research analyst reports. Piper Sandler boosted their target price on Occidental Petroleum from $61.00 to $62.00 in a research note on Tuesday, June 13th. Stephens reaffirmed an overweight rating and issued a $69.00 price objective on shares of Occidental Petroleum in a research note on Wednesday, August 16th. Truist Financial reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $80.00 price objective on shares of Occidental Petroleum in a research note on Wednesday, August 16th. Susquehanna lowered their price objective on Occidental Petroleum from $75.00 to $72.00 and set a positive rating for the company in a research note on Friday, July 21st. Finally, Citigroup upped their price objective on Occidental Petroleum from $62.00 to $66.00 in a research note on Wednesday, September 20th. Get Occidental Petroleum alerts: Check Out Our Latest Report on OXY Occidental Petroleum Stock Up 3.9 % Shares of NYSE OXY opened at $65.61 on Thursday. The company has a current ratio of 1.00, a quick ratio of 0.73 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.96. The company has a market cap of $58.04 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.14, a PEG ratio of 0.76 and a beta of 1.77. Occidental Petroleum has a 12 month low of $55.51 and a 12 month high of $76.11. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $63.65 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $61.21. Occidental Petroleum (NYSE:OXY Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, August 2nd. The oil and gas producer reported $0.68 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.70 by ($0.02). The business had revenue of $6.73 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $6.92 billion. Occidental Petroleum had a return on equity of 31.59% and a net margin of 21.36%. The firms revenue was down 37.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $3.16 EPS. As a group, analysts forecast that Occidental Petroleum will post 3.8 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Occidental Petroleum Announces Dividend The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, October 13th. Shareholders of record on Friday, September 8th will be issued a dividend of $0.18 per share. This represents a $0.72 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.10%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, September 7th. Occidental Petroleums payout ratio is 12.22%. Insiders Place Their Bets In other Occidental Petroleum news, major shareholder Petroleum Corp /De/ Occidental sold 5,100,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $25.00, for a total transaction of $127,500,000.00. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 185,181,578 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,629,539,450. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Company insiders own 0.35% of the companys stock. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Occidental Petroleum Large investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. Steward Financial Group LLC bought a new position in shares of Occidental Petroleum in the 2nd quarter worth $25,000. Wolff Wiese Magana LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Occidental Petroleum by 5,000.0% in the 1st quarter. Wolff Wiese Magana LLC now owns 510 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $32,000 after purchasing an additional 500 shares in the last quarter. Cyrus J. Lawrence LLC bought a new position in shares of Occidental Petroleum in the 1st quarter worth $33,000. Strengthening Families & Communities LLC purchased a new stake in Occidental Petroleum in the 1st quarter valued at $35,000. Finally, Resurgent Financial Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in Occidental Petroleum in the 4th quarter valued at $35,000. 77.54% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. About Occidental Petroleum (Get Free Report Occidental Petroleum Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of oil and gas properties in the United States, the Middle East, North Africa, and Latin America. It operates through three segments: Oil and Gas, Chemical, and Midstream and Marketing. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Occidental Petroleum Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Occidental Petroleum and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Teacher Retirement System of Texas cut its position in AutoZone, Inc. (NYSE:AZO Free Report) by 25.8% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 7,871 shares of the companys stock after selling 2,734 shares during the period. Teacher Retirement System of Texas holdings in AutoZone were worth $19,625,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Summit Global Investments raised its stake in AutoZone by 41.9% in the second quarter. Summit Global Investments now owns 183 shares of the companys stock valued at $456,000 after buying an additional 54 shares in the last quarter. Allworth Financial LP increased its stake in AutoZone by 900.0% in the second quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 390 shares of the companys stock valued at $972,000 after purchasing an additional 351 shares during the last quarter. Zhang Financial LLC acquired a new stake in AutoZone during the second quarter worth approximately $316,000. Diversified Trust Co lifted its position in shares of AutoZone by 0.4% during the 2nd quarter. Diversified Trust Co now owns 5,761 shares of the companys stock worth $14,364,000 after buying an additional 23 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Stratos Wealth Partners LTD. grew its position in shares of AutoZone by 16.6% in the 2nd quarter. Stratos Wealth Partners LTD. now owns 239 shares of the companys stock valued at $596,000 after buying an additional 34 shares during the last quarter. 90.34% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get AutoZone alerts: Insider Transactions at AutoZone In related news, VP Albert Saltiel sold 2,245 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, June 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $2,500.00, for a total value of $5,612,500.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 535 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,337,500. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other news, VP Charles Pleas III sold 4,200 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, July 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $2,546.55, for a total transaction of $10,695,510.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 3,425 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $8,721,933.75. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, VP Albert Saltiel sold 2,245 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, June 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $2,500.00, for a total value of $5,612,500.00. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now directly owns 535 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,337,500. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 6,565 shares of company stock valued at $16,613,774 in the last quarter. 2.59% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several research firms have issued reports on AZO. Wedbush restated an outperform rating and issued a $2,750.00 price objective on shares of AutoZone in a research note on Wednesday, September 20th. StockNews.com began coverage on AutoZone in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. They set a buy rating on the stock. 92 Resources reissued a reiterates rating on shares of AutoZone in a report on Tuesday, June 27th. Evercore ISI lifted their target price on shares of AutoZone from $2,740.00 to $2,750.00 in a report on Wednesday, September 20th. Finally, Bank of America upgraded shares of AutoZone from an underperform rating to a neutral rating and upped their price target for the company from $2,120.00 to $2,465.00 in a research report on Thursday, June 1st. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and fifteen have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $2,803.12. View Our Latest Research Report on AutoZone AutoZone Stock Performance AutoZone stock opened at $2,546.27 on Thursday. The company has a market cap of $46.24 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.19, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.40 and a beta of 0.66. AutoZone, Inc. has a one year low of $2,107.66 and a one year high of $2,750.00. The business has a fifty day moving average of $2,506.19 and a two-hundred day moving average of $2,514.16. AutoZone (NYSE:AZO Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, September 19th. The company reported $46.46 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $44.51 by $1.95. AutoZone had a net margin of 14.48% and a negative return on equity of 60.66%. The firm had revenue of $5.69 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.62 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $40.51 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 6.4% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts predict that AutoZone, Inc. will post 146.42 EPS for the current year. About AutoZone (Free Report) AutoZone, Inc retails and distributes automotive replacement parts and accessories. The company offers various products for cars, sport utility vehicles, vans, and light trucks, including new and remanufactured automotive hard parts, maintenance items, accessories, and non-automotive products. Its products include A/C compressors, batteries and accessories, bearings, belts and hoses, calipers, chassis, clutches, CV axles, engines, fuel pumps, fuses, ignition and lighting products, mufflers, radiators, starters and alternators, thermostats, and water pumps, as well as tire repairs. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AZO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for AutoZone, Inc. (NYSE:AZO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for AutoZone Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AutoZone and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Invafresh positioned for accelerated customer growth across the global grocery industry TORONTO, September 28, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Invafresh, the grocery industry's leading fresh retail platform, today announced the addition of Will Hansmann to the Invafresh Executive Team as Chief Technology Officer. Will is an accomplished enterprise software executive with a focus on business-oriented technology. He possesses a wealth of experience leading global multimillion-dollar, high-growth technology and product engineering initiatives with a proven track record of delivering customer-centric solutions. He joins Invafresh from project44, a global leader in supply chain visibility. As Chief Technology Officer at project44, he led engineering in close partnership with product management and go-to-market teams to build their supply chain visibility platform. During his five-year tenure with project44, Will scaled the engineering organization across the US, Europe, China, and India, contributing to the organizations rapid growth. Prior to project44, Will held CTO and other senior technology leadership roles at Citadel, Uptake Technologies, Channel IQ and Aurora Investment Management. Will holds a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical/Astronautical Engineering from the University of Illinois and a Chartered Financial Analyst designation. "Im excited to be part of the Invafresh team to deliver a world class experience to our customers through world class advanced engineering leveraging AI and other emerging technologies to address the challenges they are facing," said Hansmann. "This is a time of great innovation in the fresh food and grocery industry as our customers increasingly look to technology to deliver a better customer experience and advance their business. My focus will be to ensure we continually advance our Fresh Retail Platform to exceed our customers expectations." "I look forward to working with Will as he focuses on expanding the capabilities of our Fresh Retail Platform," said Tim Spencer, Chief Executive Officer at Invafresh. "His depth of experience and proven track record of engineering success positions us well for the future as we continue to grow our business and address the evolving technology needs of our customers." Story continues This appointment comes at a time of continued global growth and market momentum for Invafresh. The company continues to expand its AI/ML and analytics capabilities to deliver an industry leading fresh retail platform and is poised for expansion into 2024. About Invafresh With a combined 500+ years of Freshology experience, the heritage of Invafresh has enabled fresh food retailers to create extraordinary store operations performance and differentiated customer experiences. As the leader of Freshology, Invafresh is deployed in over 300 grocery retailers spanning a global reach of 18 countries with more than $100 million of Fresh revenue being transacted daily, to provide AI/ML demand forecasting, merchandising, replenishment, and sustainability and compliance solutions. Learn more at invafresh.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928407482/en/ Contacts Media Contact Ron Margulis RAM Communications 1.908.337.0020 ron@rampr.com Nelson Van Denburg & Campbell Wealth Management Group LLC trimmed its position in shares of Bank of America Co. (NYSE:BAC Free Report) by 29.2% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 89,917 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 37,164 shares during the period. Nelson Van Denburg & Campbell Wealth Management Group LLCs holdings in Bank of America were worth $2,580,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other large investors have also made changes to their positions in BAC. Roundview Capital LLC boosted its position in Bank of America by 1.5% during the 1st quarter. Roundview Capital LLC now owns 135,764 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $5,596,000 after purchasing an additional 2,013 shares during the period. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P boosted its position in shares of Bank of America by 150.3% in the first quarter. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P now owns 1,985 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $82,000 after buying an additional 1,192 shares during the period. NewEdge Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of Bank of America by 4.2% in the first quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 405,098 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $16,698,000 after buying an additional 16,319 shares in the last quarter. First Western Trust Bank purchased a new stake in shares of Bank of America during the 1st quarter valued at about $586,000. Finally, Pearl River Capital LLC acquired a new position in Bank of America during the 1st quarter worth approximately $534,000. 68.06% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Bank of America alerts: Bank of America Stock Up 0.4 % BAC stock opened at $27.28 on Thursday. The firm has a market cap of $216.78 billion, a PE ratio of 7.84, a P/E/G ratio of 1.14 and a beta of 1.37. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.12, a current ratio of 0.83 and a quick ratio of 0.83. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $29.71 and a 200 day simple moving average of $28.98. Bank of America Co. has a 12 month low of $26.32 and a 12 month high of $38.60. Bank of America Increases Dividend Bank of America ( NYSE:BAC Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, July 18th. The financial services provider reported $0.88 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.84 by $0.04. The firm had revenue of $25.20 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $24.98 billion. Bank of America had a net margin of 19.97% and a return on equity of 12.01%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 11.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $0.73 EPS. Equities research analysts forecast that Bank of America Co. will post 3.4 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, September 29th. Stockholders of record on Friday, September 1st will be given a $0.24 dividend. This represents a $0.96 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.52%. This is a positive change from Bank of Americas previous quarterly dividend of $0.22. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, August 31st. Bank of Americas dividend payout ratio is 27.59%. Insider Activity at Bank of America In other Bank of America news, insider James P. Demare sold 75,000 shares of Bank of America stock in a transaction on Tuesday, August 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $31.53, for a total transaction of $2,364,750.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 185,108 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,836,455.24. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. In related news, insider Dean C. Athanasia sold 77,806 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, July 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of $31.48, for a total value of $2,449,332.88. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 353,971 shares in the company, valued at $11,143,007.08. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, insider James P. Demare sold 75,000 shares of Bank of America stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, August 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $31.53, for a total transaction of $2,364,750.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 185,108 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,836,455.24. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.27% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several analysts have issued reports on the stock. Royal Bank of Canada reaffirmed an outperform rating and issued a $35.00 price objective on shares of Bank of America in a research report on Tuesday, September 12th. Morgan Stanley boosted their price objective on shares of Bank of America from $32.00 to $33.00 in a report on Friday, July 7th. StockNews.com began coverage on shares of Bank of America in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Oppenheimer dropped their target price on Bank of America from $49.00 to $48.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday. Finally, BMO Capital Markets lowered their price objective on Bank of America from $41.00 to $40.00 in a research note on Wednesday, July 19th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have issued a hold rating and nine have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Bank of America presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $35.92. Read Our Latest Report on Bank of America About Bank of America (Free Report) Bank of America Corporation, through its subsidiaries, provides banking and financial products and services for individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses, institutional investors, large corporations, and governments worldwide. Its Consumer Banking segment offers traditional and money market savings accounts, certificates of deposit and IRAs, noninterest-and interest-bearing checking accounts, and investment accounts and products; and credit and debit cards, residential mortgages, and home equity loans, as well as direct and indirect loans, such as automotive, recreational vehicle, and consumer personal loans. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Bank of America Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of America and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Brady Family Wealth LLC increased its holdings in shares of Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:BR Free Report) by 0.9% in the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund owned 30,146 shares of the business services providers stock after acquiring an additional 265 shares during the period. Broadridge Financial Solutions comprises 1.9% of Brady Family Wealth LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 13th biggest position. Brady Family Wealth LLCs holdings in Broadridge Financial Solutions were worth $4,993,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the business. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Broadridge Financial Solutions by 0.8% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 13,714,442 shares of the business services providers stock worth $2,135,476,000 after acquiring an additional 108,223 shares during the last quarter. Morgan Stanley raised its position in Broadridge Financial Solutions by 41.0% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 7,043,656 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $944,766,000 after purchasing an additional 2,048,184 shares in the last quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD raised its position in Broadridge Financial Solutions by 2.8% during the 1st quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 3,488,037 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $511,243,000 after purchasing an additional 96,566 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC raised its position in Broadridge Financial Solutions by 1.5% during the 1st quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 2,519,784 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $368,593,000 after purchasing an additional 37,989 shares in the last quarter. Finally, T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. raised its position in Broadridge Financial Solutions by 85.1% during the 4th quarter. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. now owns 2,230,810 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $299,219,000 after purchasing an additional 1,025,907 shares in the last quarter. 89.36% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Broadridge Financial Solutions alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of equities research analysts have weighed in on the company. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their target price on Broadridge Financial Solutions from $169.00 to $190.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 9th. DA Davidson lifted their price target on Broadridge Financial Solutions from $160.00 to $164.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, August 9th. StockNews.com downgraded Broadridge Financial Solutions from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Sunday. Morgan Stanley lifted their price target on Broadridge Financial Solutions from $165.00 to $175.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Wednesday, August 9th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price target on Broadridge Financial Solutions from $178.00 to $192.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, August 22nd. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Broadridge Financial Solutions presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $173.67. Broadridge Financial Solutions Stock Up 0.0 % BR stock traded up $0.08 on Thursday, hitting $181.30. 55,709 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 544,948. Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. has a 12-month low of $131.35 and a 12-month high of $189.69. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $179.86 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $161.33. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.00, a quick ratio of 0.58 and a current ratio of 0.58. The stock has a market cap of $21.42 billion, a P/E ratio of 34.26 and a beta of 0.98. Broadridge Financial Solutions (NYSE:BR Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, August 8th. The business services provider reported $3.21 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $3.10 by $0.11. Broadridge Financial Solutions had a return on equity of 42.09% and a net margin of 10.40%. The firm had revenue of $1.84 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.87 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $2.65 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 6.7% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. will post 7.63 EPS for the current fiscal year. Broadridge Financial Solutions Increases Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, October 5th. Shareholders of record on Friday, September 15th will be paid a dividend of $0.80 per share. This represents a $3.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.77%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, September 14th. This is an increase from Broadridge Financial Solutionss previous quarterly dividend of $0.73. Broadridge Financial Solutionss payout ratio is presently 60.49%. Insider Buying and Selling at Broadridge Financial Solutions In other Broadridge Financial Solutions news, VP Thomas P. Carey sold 2,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, August 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $178.40, for a total transaction of $446,000.00. Following the sale, the vice president now owns 11,322 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,019,844.80. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other Broadridge Financial Solutions news, Chairman Richard J. Daly sold 31,565 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, August 18th. The stock was sold at an average price of $178.82, for a total transaction of $5,644,453.30. Following the sale, the chairman now owns 111,761 shares in the company, valued at approximately $19,985,102.02. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, VP Thomas P. Carey sold 2,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, August 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $178.40, for a total value of $446,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 11,322 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,019,844.80. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 191,035 shares of company stock worth $34,423,247. 1.60% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Broadridge Financial Solutions Profile (Free Report) 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. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Broadridge Financial Solutions Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Broadridge Financial Solutions and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. CHICAGO TRUST Co NA increased its position in shares of Deere & Company (NYSE:DE Free Report) by 140.7% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 2,056 shares of the industrial products companys stock after purchasing an additional 1,202 shares during the period. CHICAGO TRUST Co NAs holdings in Deere & Company were worth $833,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Providence Capital Advisors LLC raised its stake in shares of Deere & Company by 41,880.9% during the 1st quarter. Providence Capital Advisors LLC now owns 5,703,524 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $13,814,000 after buying an additional 5,689,938 shares in the last quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC boosted its position in shares of Deere & Company by 104,373.8% during the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 3,219,883 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,380,557,000 after purchasing an additional 3,216,801 shares in the last quarter. Norges Bank acquired a new position in shares of Deere & Company during the 4th quarter worth $1,326,177,000. Morgan Stanley increased its holdings in shares of Deere & Company by 13.8% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 4,576,183 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $1,962,085,000 after purchasing an additional 554,133 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Envestnet Asset Management Inc. boosted its holdings in Deere & Company by 295.2% during the first quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 695,791 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $78,113,000 after buying an additional 519,711 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 66.27% of the companys stock. Get Deere & Company alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of brokerages have issued reports on DE. Citigroup increased their target price on shares of Deere & Company from $460.00 to $475.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, July 18th. StockNews.com began coverage on Deere & Company in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. They set a hold rating on the stock. BMO Capital Markets dropped their price target on Deere & Company from $450.00 to $425.00 in a research report on Monday, June 5th. Canaccord Genuity Group reiterated a hold rating and issued a $400.00 price objective (down from $530.00) on shares of Deere & Company in a research report on Friday, September 22nd. Finally, Canaccord Genuity Group downgraded shares of Deere & Company from a buy rating to a hold rating and dropped their target price for the company from $530.00 to $400.00 in a report on Friday, September 22nd. Eight investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $450.86. Deere & Company Stock Performance Shares of DE opened at $384.36 on Thursday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.65, a quick ratio of 1.74 and a current ratio of 1.98. Deere & Company has a 1 year low of $333.66 and a 1 year high of $450.00. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $413.57 and a 200-day moving average of $397.42. The company has a market cap of $110.70 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.36, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.86 and a beta of 1.07. Deere & Company (NYSE:DE Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Friday, August 18th. The industrial products company reported $10.20 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $8.22 by $1.98. The company had revenue of $14.28 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $14.14 billion. Deere & Company had a return on equity of 46.15% and a net margin of 16.36%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 9.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $6.16 earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Deere & Company will post 33.91 earnings per share for the current year. Deere & Company Increases Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 8th. Stockholders of record on Friday, September 29th will be issued a $1.35 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, September 28th. This is a boost from Deere & Companys previous quarterly dividend of $1.25. This represents a $5.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.40%. Deere & Companys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 14.78%. Insider Activity at Deere & Company In other Deere & Company news, insider Cory J. Reed sold 4,680 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, July 25th. The stock was sold at an average price of $449.75, for a total value of $2,104,830.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 36,563 shares in the company, valued at $16,444,209.25. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Company insiders own 0.26% of the companys stock. Deere & Company Company Profile (Free Report) Deere & Company manufactures and distributes various equipment worldwide. The company operates through four segments: Production and Precision Agriculture, Small Agriculture and Turf, Construction and Forestry, and Financial Services. The Production and Precision Agriculture segment provides mid-size tractors, combines, cotton pickers and strippers, sugarcane harvesters, harvesting front-end equipment, sugarcane loaders, pull-behind scrapers, and tillage and seeding equipment, as well as application equipment, including sprayers and nutrient management, and soil preparation machinery for grain growers. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DE? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Deere & Company (NYSE:DE Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Deere & Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Deere & Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Daymark Wealth Partners LLC grew its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Free Report) by 66.8% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 9,899 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 3,965 shares during the quarter. Daymark Wealth Partners LLCs holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $4,642,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Silicon Valley Capital Partners purchased a new stake in Eli Lilly and Company in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $25,000. Bogart Wealth LLC grew its holdings in Eli Lilly and Company by 193.3% during the first quarter. Bogart Wealth LLC now owns 88 shares of the companys stock worth $30,000 after acquiring an additional 58 shares during the period. Laffer Tengler Investments purchased a new position in Eli Lilly and Company in the first quarter worth $33,000. Raleigh Capital Management Inc. boosted its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 156.4% during the 1st quarter. Raleigh Capital Management Inc. now owns 100 shares of the companys stock worth $34,000 after purchasing an additional 61 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Tanglewood Legacy Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company during the 4th quarter worth $37,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 81.38% of the companys stock. Get Eli Lilly and Company alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes A number of analysts recently commented on the stock. Argus boosted their price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $470.00 to $620.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, September 5th. Berenberg Bank upped their price target on Eli Lilly and Company from $375.00 to $500.00 in a report on Tuesday, June 20th. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their price objective on Eli Lilly and Company from $490.00 to $580.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, August 8th. Jefferies Financial Group raised Eli Lilly and Company from a hold rating to a buy rating and upped their target price for the company from $408.00 to $615.00 in a report on Tuesday, August 8th. Finally, Credit Suisse Group boosted their price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $490.00 to $580.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 9th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, one has assigned a hold rating and twenty have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $532.78. Insider Transactions at Eli Lilly and Company In related news, major shareholder Lilly Endowment Inc sold 164,125 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, June 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $467.60, for a total value of $76,744,850.00. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 101,028,810 shares in the company, valued at $47,241,071,556. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. In related news, CAO Donald A. Zakrowski sold 600 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, August 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $546.51, for a total transaction of $327,906.00. Following the sale, the chief accounting officer now directly owns 5,378 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,939,130.78. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, major shareholder Lilly Endowment Inc sold 164,125 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, June 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $467.60, for a total value of $76,744,850.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 101,028,810 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $47,241,071,556. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders sold 857,371 shares of company stock worth $21,025,565,827. 0.13% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Eli Lilly and Company Stock Performance Shares of LLY stock opened at $549.76 on Thursday. The firm has a market capitalization of $521.88 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 76.46, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.27 and a beta of 0.32. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $530.54 and a 200 day moving average price of $452.02. Eli Lilly and Company has a one year low of $309.20 and a one year high of $601.84. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.63, a quick ratio of 0.87 and a current ratio of 1.13. Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, August 8th. The company reported $2.11 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.98 by $0.13. Eli Lilly and Company had a return on equity of 65.00% and a net margin of 22.01%. The business had revenue of $8.31 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $7.58 billion. During the same period last year, the company posted $1.25 EPS. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 28.1% on a year-over-year basis. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Eli Lilly and Company will post 9.84 EPS for the current year. Eli Lilly and Company Company Profile (Free Report) Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. It offers Basaglar, Humalog, Humalog Mix 75/25, Humalog U-100, Humalog U-200, Humalog Mix 50/50, insulin lispro, insulin lispro protamine, insulin lispro mix 75/25, Humulin, Humulin 70/30, Humulin N, Humulin R, and Humulin U-500 for diabetes; and Jardiance, Trajenta, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Eli Lilly and Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Eli Lilly and Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Entrepreneur Universe Bright Group (OTCMKTS:EUBG Get Free Report)s share price hit a new 52-week high on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as $0.40 and last traded at $0.40, with a volume of 12500 shares. The stock had previously closed at $0.39. Entrepreneur Universe Bright Group Trading Down 4.3 % The firms fifty day moving average price is $0.34 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $0.26. Entrepreneur Universe Bright Group Company Profile (Get Free Report) Entrepreneur Universe Bright Group, through its subsidiaries, provides digital marketing consultation services in the Hong Kong and People's Republic of China. It offers consulting, sourcing, and marketing services. The company was formerly known as REE International, Inc and changed its name to Entrepreneur Universe Bright Group in April 2020. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Entrepreneur Universe Bright Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Entrepreneur Universe Bright Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Golden State Equity Partners raised its stake in Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY Free Report) by 35.1% during the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 8,821 shares of the technology retailers stock after buying an additional 2,294 shares during the period. Golden State Equity Partners holdings in Best Buy were worth $723,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Several other large investors also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Diversified Trust Co bought a new position in Best Buy in the 2nd quarter valued at about $270,000. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC lifted its holdings in Best Buy by 95.6% during the 2nd quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 62,954 shares of the technology retailers stock worth $5,159,000 after purchasing an additional 30,776 shares during the last quarter. New Mexico Educational Retirement Board lifted its holdings in Best Buy by 3.2% during the 2nd quarter. New Mexico Educational Retirement Board now owns 9,571 shares of the technology retailers stock worth $784,000 after purchasing an additional 300 shares during the last quarter. Bowman & Co S.C. increased its position in Best Buy by 5.4% during the 2nd quarter. Bowman & Co S.C. now owns 10,287 shares of the technology retailers stock worth $844,000 after buying an additional 523 shares during the period. Finally, Impact Partnership Wealth LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Best Buy during the second quarter worth $959,000. 76.10% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Best Buy alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of analysts have issued reports on the stock. Truist Financial boosted their price objective on shares of Best Buy from $77.00 to $80.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, August 30th. StockNews.com cut shares of Best Buy from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 16th. Wells Fargo & Company raised their target price on shares of Best Buy from $75.00 to $80.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, August 30th. Wedbush upped their price target on shares of Best Buy from $72.00 to $82.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, August 30th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their price objective on shares of Best Buy from $77.00 to $79.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, August 29th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have given a hold rating and eleven have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $80.67. Best Buy Trading Up 0.5 % Shares of NYSE BBY opened at $68.37 on Thursday. The stock has a market cap of $14.88 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.77, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.78 and a beta of 1.54. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $76.57 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $76.12. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.40, a quick ratio of 0.31 and a current ratio of 0.98. Best Buy Co., Inc. has a 52-week low of $60.78 and a 52-week high of $93.32. Best Buy (NYSE:BBY Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, August 29th. The technology retailer reported $1.22 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.06 by $0.16. Best Buy had a return on equity of 49.40% and a net margin of 2.91%. The company had revenue of $9.58 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $9.52 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $1.54 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 7.2% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Best Buy Co., Inc. will post 6.22 EPS for the current year. Best Buy Dividend Announcement The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, October 10th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, September 19th will be paid a $0.92 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, September 18th. This represents a $3.68 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.38%. Best Buys dividend payout ratio is currently 63.34%. Insider Buying and Selling In related news, insider Todd G. Hartman sold 7,948 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, September 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $69.38, for a total value of $551,432.24. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 13,337 shares in the company, valued at approximately $925,321.06. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. In related news, insider Todd G. Hartman sold 7,948 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, September 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $69.38, for a total value of $551,432.24. Following the sale, the insider now owns 13,337 shares in the company, valued at approximately $925,321.06. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, EVP Kathleen Scarlett sold 34,191 shares of Best Buy stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, July 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $81.30, for a total value of $2,779,728.30. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 65,039 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,287,670.70. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 147,139 shares of company stock valued at $12,211,061 over the last ninety days. 0.56% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Best Buy Profile (Free Report) Best Buy Co, Inc engages in the retail of technology products in the United States and Canada. The company operates in two segments, Domestic and International. Its stores provide computing and mobile phone products, such as desktops, notebooks, and peripherals; mobile phones comprising related mobile network carrier commissions; networking products; tablets covering e-readers; smartwatches; and consumer electronics consisting of digital imaging, health and fitness products, home theater, portable audio comprising headphones and portable speakers, and smart home products. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BBY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Best Buy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Best Buy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Golden State Equity Partners purchased a new stake in shares of BondBloxx Bloomberg One Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF (NYSEARCA:XONE Free Report) during the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm purchased 13,814 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $686,000. Golden State Equity Partners owned 0.46% of BondBloxx Bloomberg One Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF as of its most recent SEC filing. Other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Municipal Employees Retirement System of Michigan raised its stake in BondBloxx Bloomberg One Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF by 74.5% during the 1st quarter. Municipal Employees Retirement System of Michigan now owns 1,222,422 shares of the companys stock valued at $61,174,000 after purchasing an additional 521,774 shares during the period. Peak Financial Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of BondBloxx Bloomberg One Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF in the first quarter worth $22,395,000. HighTower Advisors LLC bought a new position in shares of BondBloxx Bloomberg One Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF during the first quarter worth $11,414,000. Flow Traders U.S. LLC purchased a new position in BondBloxx Bloomberg One Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF during the first quarter valued at $9,618,000. Finally, Avantax Advisory Services Inc. bought a new stake in BondBloxx Bloomberg One Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF in the 1st quarter valued at $7,982,000. Get BondBloxx Bloomberg One Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF alerts: BondBloxx Bloomberg One Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF Stock Performance Shares of XONE stock opened at $49.69 on Thursday. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $49.68 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $49.76. BondBloxx Bloomberg One Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF has a 52 week low of $49.39 and a 52 week high of $50.18. BondBloxx Bloomberg One Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF Dividend Announcement BondBloxx Bloomberg One Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF Company Profile The company also recently declared a dividend, which was paid on Monday, July 10th. Investors of record on Wednesday, July 5th were paid a dividend of $0.1509 per share. The ex-dividend date was Monday, July 3rd. (Free Report) The Bondbloxx Bloomberg One Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF (XONE) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in investment grade fixed income. The fund is passively managed to invest in a portfolio of US Treasury securities with a target duration of one year. XONE was launched on Sep 13, 2022 and is managed by BondBloxx. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding XONE? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for BondBloxx Bloomberg One Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF (NYSEARCA:XONE Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for BondBloxx Bloomberg One Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for BondBloxx Bloomberg One Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Hartford Investment Management Co. cut its holdings in Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO Free Report) by 16.5% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 127,560 shares of the companys stock after selling 25,189 shares during the quarter. Hartford Investment Management Co.s holdings in Altria Group were worth $5,778,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other large investors have also modified their holdings of MO. Sei Investments Co. grew its position in shares of Altria Group by 1.6% in the first quarter. Sei Investments Co. now owns 404,894 shares of the companys stock valued at $21,248,000 after purchasing an additional 6,324 shares during the last quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC grew its position in shares of Altria Group by 5.2% in the first quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC now owns 18,647 shares of the companys stock valued at $974,000 after purchasing an additional 929 shares during the last quarter. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P acquired a new stake in shares of Altria Group in the first quarter valued at approximately $25,000. Mackenzie Financial Corp grew its position in shares of Altria Group by 3.4% in the first quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 2,711,773 shares of the companys stock valued at $141,690,000 after purchasing an additional 89,334 shares during the last quarter. Finally, First Western Trust Bank acquired a new stake in shares of Altria Group in the first quarter valued at approximately $498,000. 58.94% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Altria Group alerts: Altria Group Trading Up 0.0 % Shares of MO traded up $0.01 during mid-day trading on Thursday, reaching $41.92. The company had a trading volume of 576,906 shares, compared to its average volume of 7,765,142. The stock has a market cap of $74.39 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.00, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.24 and a beta of 0.59. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $43.92 and a 200-day simple moving average of $44.82. Altria Group, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $40.35 and a fifty-two week high of $51.57. Altria Group Increases Dividend Altria Group ( NYSE:MO Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, August 1st. The company reported $1.31 earnings per share for the quarter, meeting analysts consensus estimates of $1.31. The company had revenue of $5.44 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.43 billion. Altria Group had a net margin of 27.40% and a negative return on equity of 225.61%. Altria Groups revenue for the quarter was up 1.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $1.26 EPS. As a group, equities analysts predict that Altria Group, Inc. will post 5 EPS for the current fiscal year. The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, October 10th. Stockholders of record on Friday, September 15th will be paid a $0.98 dividend. This represents a $3.92 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 9.35%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, September 14th. This is an increase from Altria Groups previous quarterly dividend of $0.94. Altria Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 102.89%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In MO has been the topic of a number of analyst reports. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Altria Group in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Jefferies Financial Group decreased their target price on shares of Altria Group from $56.00 to $55.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, August 22nd. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have issued a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $47.50. Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on MO Altria Group Company Profile (Free Report) Altria Group, Inc, through its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells smokeable and oral tobacco products in the United States. The company provides cigarettes primarily under the Marlboro brand; cigars and pipe tobacco principally under the Black & Mild brand; moist smokeless tobacco products and snus products under the Copenhagen, Skoal, Red Seal, and Husky brands; and on! oral nicotine pouches. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Altria Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Altria Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. HubSpot, Inc. (NYSE:HUBS Get Free Report) has been assigned a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy from the twenty-five ratings firms that are covering the firm, MarketBeat.com reports. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty-two have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. The average 1 year price objective among brokers that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $539.76. A number of research analysts have issued reports on HUBS shares. UBS Group upped their target price on shares of HubSpot from $550.00 to $600.00 in a report on Thursday, September 7th. The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their target price on shares of HubSpot from $536.00 to $596.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, July 20th. Argus increased their price target on HubSpot from $550.00 to $604.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 16th. Oppenheimer reaffirmed an outperform rating and issued a $620.00 price objective on shares of HubSpot in a research report on Thursday, August 3rd. Finally, Mizuho upped their target price on HubSpot from $550.00 to $600.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, September 7th. Get HubSpot alerts: Check Out Our Latest Report on HubSpot HubSpot Stock Up 3.2 % HUBS stock opened at $483.37 on Thursday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.42, a current ratio of 2.25 and a quick ratio of 2.25. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $521.63 and its 200-day simple moving average is $485.91. HubSpot has a 12 month low of $245.03 and a 12 month high of $581.40. The firm has a market capitalization of $24.17 billion, a PE ratio of -116.14 and a beta of 1.58. HubSpot (NYSE:HUBS Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, August 2nd. The software maker reported ($1.17) EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.90) by ($0.27). The company had revenue of $529.14 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $504.45 million. HubSpot had a negative net margin of 10.51% and a negative return on equity of 11.28%. Equities analysts expect that HubSpot will post -1.42 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Insider Buying and Selling at HubSpot In other news, CFO Kathryn Bueker sold 300 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, July 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $550.00, for a total value of $165,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 38,024 shares in the company, valued at $20,913,200. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. In related news, CEO Yamini Rangan sold 3,136 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, July 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $519.62, for a total value of $1,629,528.32. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 57,519 shares in the company, valued at $29,888,022.78. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, CFO Kathryn Bueker sold 300 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, July 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $550.00, for a total value of $165,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 38,024 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $20,913,200. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 51,402 shares of company stock valued at $26,570,878 over the last 90 days. 4.90% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Hedge Funds Weigh In On HubSpot Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC raised its stake in shares of HubSpot by 4.8% in the 2nd quarter. GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC now owns 439 shares of the software makers stock valued at $234,000 after purchasing an additional 20 shares in the last quarter. Penserra Capital Management LLC grew its position in shares of HubSpot by 1.8% in the 2nd quarter. Penserra Capital Management LLC now owns 1,210 shares of the software makers stock worth $643,000 after acquiring an additional 21 shares in the last quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. increased its holdings in shares of HubSpot by 1.9% in the 2nd quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 1,155 shares of the software makers stock valued at $615,000 after acquiring an additional 22 shares during the last quarter. Catalyst Financial Partners LLC raised its position in shares of HubSpot by 4.9% during the 2nd quarter. Catalyst Financial Partners LLC now owns 494 shares of the software makers stock valued at $263,000 after acquiring an additional 23 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Smithfield Trust Co lifted its stake in HubSpot by 60.5% during the second quarter. Smithfield Trust Co now owns 61 shares of the software makers stock worth $33,000 after purchasing an additional 23 shares during the last quarter. 87.06% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. HubSpot Company Profile (Get Free Report HubSpot, Inc provides a cloud-based customer relationship management (CRM) platform for businesses in the Americas, Europe, and the Asia Pacific. The company's CRM platform includes marketing, sales, service, and content management systems, as well as integrated applications, such as search engine optimization, blogging, website content management, messaging, chatbots, social media, marketing automation, email, predictive lead scoring, sales productivity, knowledge base, commerce, conversation routing, video hosting, ticketing and helpdesk tools, customer NPS surveys, analytics, and reporting. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for HubSpot Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for HubSpot and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. TFB Advisors LLC raised its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF (BATS:USMV Free Report) by 24.2% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 3,816 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 743 shares during the quarter. TFB Advisors LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF were worth $284,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in USMV. Eagle Bay Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF in the 2nd quarter valued at about $28,000. Stonebridge Capital Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 180.4% in the 4th quarter. Stonebridge Capital Advisors LLC now owns 401 shares of the companys stock valued at $29,000 after purchasing an additional 258 shares during the last quarter. Impact Partnership Wealth LLC purchased a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF in the 2nd quarter valued at about $30,000. Oak Harbor Wealth Partners LLC purchased a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF in the 1st quarter valued at about $33,000. Finally, BNP Paribas Arbitrage SNC purchased a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF in the 3rd quarter valued at about $31,000. Get iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF alerts: iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF Stock Down 0.3 % USMV opened at $72.67 on Thursday. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $74.74 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $73.51. The company has a market cap of $27.88 billion, a PE ratio of 20.17 and a beta of 0.75. iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF has a 52 week low of $47.44 and a 52 week high of $55.45. iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF Company Profile The iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF (USMV) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI USA Minimum Volatility (USD) index. The fund tracks an index of US-listed firms selected and weighted to create a low-volatility portfolio subject to various constraints. USMV was launched on Oct 18, 2011 and is managed by BlackRock. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding USMV? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF (BATS:USMV Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. With several successful implementations now facilitating seamless travel and border crossing, Entrust is now a global leader in implementing Digital Travel Credentials to transform the travel experience MINNEAPOLIS, September 28, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Entrust, a global leader in trusted identities, payments, and data, today announced its pioneering role in the evolution of digital travel experiences. With Entrust solutions helping to power the Eurostar SmartCheck system, UK Home Office digitized immigration application process, the new UK Electronic Travel Authorization, and more, Entrust is leading implementation of Digital Travel Credentials that are transforming the travel experience. "Entrust's participation in the launch of the Eurostar SmartCheck program marks a significant milestone in the journey to realizing more secure and efficient international rail journeys," said Julia Simpson, World Travel & Tourism Councils (WTTC) President and CEO. "The implementation of a biometric walkthrough experience, with the very latest technology to digitize the passport, brings to life WTTCs digital borders. It is a model that can be applied to many modes of international travel and I hope it will inspire others to adopt innovative solutions to take the hassle out of travel while making it more secure." In a rapidly evolving travel industry where travelers demand simpler, faster, and more secure solutions, Entrust has taken the lead in transforming pre-boarding check-in processes and seamless border experiences. Leveraging its innovative Identity Verification platform, Entrust has derived Digital Travel Credentials (DTC), which are a digital representation of a travelers identity. With the recent launch of the Eurostar SmartCheck program, Entrust has solidified its position as a global leader in DTC implementation worldwide. Another notable example of Entrust solutions in use today is the UK Home Office's expansion of its digitized immigration application process, with the launch of the new UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Eurostar launched its SmartCheck biometric service, in full production since July 2023, and has undergone rigorous testing, demonstrating its efficacy through several thousand trips. Entrust, in collaboration with SmartCheck lead partner iProov, and using Inverids ReadID, has nurtured this program from its pilot stage in 2022 to its full-scale launch initially for Business Premier and Carte Blanche travelers. Story continues "We are honored to be advancing the realization of this digital transformation in travel and borders," said Gordon Wilson, Vice President and Global Lead of Seamless Travel at Entrust. "Entrusts cutting-edge Identity Verification platform and seamless travel solution approach redefines the travel experience. With consent-based one-to-one facial matching, your face becomes your check-in ticket, boarding pass, and passport for border exit or entry, this is the future of the traveler experience." Entrust first demonstrated its Seamless Travel solution during the Canadian Chain of Trust pilot program, and in collaboration with the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA), and the Greater Toronto Airport Authority (GTAA). The solution derives the DTC to support the transformation of travel in line with the desired seamless traveler journey defined by the WTTC and aligns with the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO -TRIP) and the One ID Program goals of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The travel industry now can operationalize seamless travel with pilots and plan full production rollouts. Visit our website to discover how the Entrust Identity Verification Solution and the Digital Travel Credential can transform your passenger journey: Entrust Seamless Travel Solutions. About Entrust Entrust keeps the world moving safely by enabling trusted identities, payments, and data. We offer an unmatched breadth of solutions that are critical to enabling trust for multi-cloud deployments, mobile identities, hybrid work, machine identity, electronic signatures, encryption, and more. With more than 2,800 colleagues, a network of global partners, and customers in over 150 countries, it's no wonder the world's most entrusted organizations trust us. For more information, visit www.entrust.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230927980535/en/ Contacts Ken Kadet, VP, Public Relations 952-937-1154 | ken.kadet@entrust.com AHL Investment Management Inc. lessened its holdings in shares of iShares Russell 3000 ETF (NYSEARCA:IWV Free Report) by 5.8% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 1,038 shares of the companys stock after selling 64 shares during the quarter. AHL Investment Management Inc.s holdings in iShares Russell 3000 ETF were worth $264,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Rhumbline Advisers increased its position in shares of iShares Russell 3000 ETF by 423.5% in the 1st quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 26,771 shares of the companys stock worth $7,024,000 after purchasing an additional 21,657 shares during the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. grew its stake in iShares Russell 3000 ETF by 1.1% in the first quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 684,744 shares of the companys stock worth $179,656,000 after purchasing an additional 7,332 shares in the last quarter. Raymond James Trust N.A. grew its stake in iShares Russell 3000 ETF by 80.6% in the first quarter. Raymond James Trust N.A. now owns 1,409 shares of the companys stock worth $370,000 after purchasing an additional 629 shares in the last quarter. Dakota Wealth Management bought a new stake in iShares Russell 3000 ETF in the first quarter valued at about $310,000. Finally, Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in iShares Russell 3000 ETF during the first quarter valued at approximately $219,000. Get iShares Russell 3000 ETF alerts: iShares Russell 3000 ETF Trading Down 0.1 % Shares of IWV opened at $244.13 on Thursday. iShares Russell 3000 ETF has a 52 week low of $201.82 and a 52 week high of $264.27. The firm has a market cap of $11.01 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.53 and a beta of 1.02. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $255.75 and a 200-day moving average of $245.96. iShares Russell 3000 ETF Company Profile iShares Russell 3000 ETF, formerly iShares Russell 3000 Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of the United States equity market, as represented by the Russell 3000 Index (the Index). Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IWV? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Russell 3000 ETF (NYSEARCA:IWV Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares Russell 3000 ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Russell 3000 ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Manchester & London (LON:MNL Get Free Report) declared a dividend on Tuesday, September 26th, Upcoming.Co.Uk reports. Investors of record on Thursday, October 5th will be given a dividend of GBX 7 ($0.09) per share by the investment trust on Wednesday, November 8th. This represents a yield of 1.65%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, October 5th. The official announcement can be seen at this link. Manchester & London Price Performance Shares of MNL opened at GBX 421 ($5.14) on Thursday. Manchester & London has a 1 year low of GBX 318 ($3.88) and a 1 year high of GBX 493.45 ($6.03). The company has a 50 day simple moving average of GBX 438.56 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of GBX 420.09. The firm has a market cap of 169.20 million, a P/E ratio of -254.68 and a beta of 0.43. Get Manchester & London alerts: Manchester & London Company Profile (Get Free Report) See Also Manchester & London Investment Trust plc is a close-ended fund launched and managed by M&L Capital Management Limited. The fund primarily invests in the public equity markets of the United Kingdom. It makes its investments across diversified sectors. The fund primarily invests in growth stocks of companies by employing a fundamental analysis. Receive News & Ratings for Manchester & London Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Manchester & London and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Marks Group Wealth Management Inc raised its position in iShares MSCI EAFE Value ETF (BATS:EFV Free Report) by 4.4% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 128,737 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 5,406 shares during the period. Marks Group Wealth Management Incs holdings in iShares MSCI EAFE Value ETF were worth $6,300,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Other large investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. Kovack Advisors Inc. raised its holdings in iShares MSCI EAFE Value ETF by 2.5% in the 1st quarter. Kovack Advisors Inc. now owns 8,867 shares of the companys stock valued at $430,000 after acquiring an additional 218 shares in the last quarter. Tompkins Financial Corp lifted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE Value ETF by 66.1% during the 1st quarter. Tompkins Financial Corp now owns 553 shares of the companys stock worth $27,000 after acquiring an additional 220 shares during the period. Zhang Financial LLC lifted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE Value ETF by 0.3% during the 2nd quarter. Zhang Financial LLC now owns 88,339 shares of the companys stock worth $4,322,000 after acquiring an additional 236 shares during the period. Stephens Inc. AR lifted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE Value ETF by 1.9% during the 1st quarter. Stephens Inc. AR now owns 13,430 shares of the companys stock worth $652,000 after acquiring an additional 249 shares during the period. Finally, Marino Stram & Associates LLC lifted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE Value ETF by 5.3% during the 1st quarter. Marino Stram & Associates LLC now owns 5,215 shares of the companys stock worth $253,000 after acquiring an additional 262 shares during the period. Get iShares MSCI EAFE Value ETF alerts: iShares MSCI EAFE Value ETF Price Performance BATS:EFV traded down $0.10 during trading hours on Thursday, hitting $48.83. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1,277,022 shares. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $49.61 and a 200-day simple moving average of $49.13. The company has a market capitalization of $16.41 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.51 and a beta of 0.84. iShares MSCI EAFE Value ETF has a twelve month low of $49.15 and a twelve month high of $59.57. iShares MSCI EAFE Value ETF Profile iShares MSCI EAFE Value ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares MSCI EAFE Value Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of the MSCI EAFE Value Index. The Index is a subset of the MSCI EAFE Index and constituents of the Index include securities from Europe, Australasia (Australia and Asia), and the Far East. See Also Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI EAFE Value ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI EAFE Value ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Marks Group Wealth Management Inc trimmed its stake in Dell Technologies Inc. (NYSE:DELL Free Report) by 1.3% during the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 93,170 shares of the technology companys stock after selling 1,243 shares during the quarter. Marks Group Wealth Management Incs holdings in Dell Technologies were worth $5,041,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Dell Technologies by 1.8% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 17,498,328 shares of the technology companys stock worth $878,241,000 after acquiring an additional 301,756 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp boosted its position in Dell Technologies by 2.0% during the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 7,107,031 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $356,702,000 after buying an additional 138,821 shares during the period. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. grew its holdings in Dell Technologies by 80.7% in the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 4,976,265 shares of the technology companys stock worth $249,759,000 after acquiring an additional 2,222,995 shares during the last quarter. FMR LLC increased its position in shares of Dell Technologies by 68.4% in the first quarter. FMR LLC now owns 4,722,119 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $189,876,000 after acquiring an additional 1,917,286 shares during the period. Finally, Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership increased its position in shares of Dell Technologies by 10.0% in the first quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 4,693,844 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $235,584,000 after acquiring an additional 427,038 shares during the period. 38.10% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Dell Technologies alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades DELL has been the topic of a number of analyst reports. Evercore ISI boosted their price objective on shares of Dell Technologies from $70.00 to $80.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, September 11th. Credit Suisse Group upped their target price on Dell Technologies from $62.00 to $74.00 in a report on Friday, September 1st. Daiwa Capital Markets upgraded Dell Technologies from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and upped their target price for the company from $50.00 to $80.00 in a report on Monday, September 18th. Raymond James upped their target price on Dell Technologies from $50.00 to $68.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, September 1st. Finally, UBS Group raised their price objective on shares of Dell Technologies from $57.00 to $69.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, September 1st. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have issued a hold rating and eleven have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Dell Technologies has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $67.25. Dell Technologies Price Performance Dell Technologies stock traded up $0.96 during midday trading on Thursday, reaching $68.91. 226,489 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 4,394,424. The firm has a market capitalization of $49.85 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.42, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.08 and a beta of 1.04. The business has a 50 day moving average of $60.58 and a two-hundred day moving average of $51.07. Dell Technologies Inc. has a 12 month low of $32.90 and a 12 month high of $72.82. Dell Technologies (NYSE:DELL Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, August 31st. The technology company reported $1.44 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.88 by $0.56. The company had revenue of $22.93 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $20.78 billion. Dell Technologies had a net margin of 2.03% and a negative return on equity of 149.91%. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Dell Technologies Inc. will post 5.34 EPS for the current year. Insiders Place Their Bets In other news, COO Anthony Charles Whitten sold 107,803 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $55.14, for a total transaction of $5,944,257.42. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer now owns 650,198 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $35,851,917.72. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. In other news, COO Anthony Charles Whitten sold 107,803 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $55.14, for a total value of $5,944,257.42. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer now directly owns 650,198 shares of the companys stock, valued at $35,851,917.72. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, Director Iv (Gp) L.L.C. Slta sold 3,529,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, July 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $55.36, for a total value of $195,365,440.00. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 135,124 shares in the company, valued at $7,480,464.64. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 3,995,850 shares of company stock valued at $221,526,369. Insiders own 48.60% of the companys stock. About Dell Technologies (Free Report) Dell Technologies Inc designs, develops, manufactures, markets, sells, and supports various comprehensive and integrated solutions, products, and services in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Infrastructure Solutions Group (ISG) and Client Solutions Group (CSG). See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DELL? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Dell Technologies Inc. (NYSE:DELL Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Dell Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Dell Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Teacher Retirement System of Texas reduced its position in shares of Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS Free Report) by 16.9% in the second quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm owned 245,584 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 49,773 shares during the period. Teacher Retirement System of Texas holdings in Morgan Stanley were worth $20,973,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Impact Partnership Wealth LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Morgan Stanley during the second quarter worth $25,000. Chelsea Counsel Co. acquired a new stake in shares of Morgan Stanley during the 4th quarter valued at about $26,000. Arlington Partners LLC grew its position in Morgan Stanley by 1,611.8% in the first quarter. Arlington Partners LLC now owns 291 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $26,000 after acquiring an additional 274 shares in the last quarter. Horizon Bancorp Inc. IN bought a new stake in Morgan Stanley in the first quarter worth $26,000. Finally, Sittner & Nelson LLC increased its holdings in shares of Morgan Stanley by 208.3% during the 1st quarter. Sittner & Nelson LLC now owns 333 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 225 shares during the last quarter. 83.09% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Morgan Stanley alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In MS has been the topic of a number of research reports. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Morgan Stanley in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Atlantic Securities raised their target price on Morgan Stanley from $85.00 to $90.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 1st. HSBC started coverage on shares of Morgan Stanley in a research report on Thursday, September 7th. They issued a buy rating and a $99.00 price target on the stock. Oppenheimer dropped their price objective on shares of Morgan Stanley from $105.00 to $100.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Tuesday. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their price objective on Morgan Stanley from $97.00 to $91.00 in a research note on Friday, July 7th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have issued a hold rating, ten have issued a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $96.50. Morgan Stanley Stock Down 0.6 % Shares of NYSE MS opened at $81.65 on Thursday. Morgan Stanley has a 1 year low of $74.67 and a 1 year high of $100.99. The firms 50-day moving average is $87.11 and its 200-day moving average is $86.24. The company has a current ratio of 0.78, a quick ratio of 0.78 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.68. The firm has a market capitalization of $135.29 billion, a PE ratio of 14.40, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.25 and a beta of 1.35. Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, July 18th. The financial services provider reported $1.24 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.20 by $0.04. Morgan Stanley had a net margin of 12.19% and a return on equity of 10.99%. The firm had revenue of $13.46 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $13.02 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned $1.44 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 2.3% on a year-over-year basis. Equities analysts expect that Morgan Stanley will post 5.83 EPS for the current year. Morgan Stanley Increases Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, August 15th. Shareholders of record on Monday, July 31st were issued a dividend of $0.85 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, July 28th. This represents a $3.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.16%. This is a boost from Morgan Stanleys previous quarterly dividend of $0.78. Morgan Stanleys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 59.96%. Morgan Stanley declared that its Board of Directors has authorized a share buyback program on Friday, June 30th that authorizes the company to repurchase $20.00 billion in shares. This repurchase authorization authorizes the financial services provider to purchase up to 12.7% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares repurchase programs are often an indication that the companys management believes its shares are undervalued. Insider Transactions at Morgan Stanley In related news, CEO James P. Gorman sold 125,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, July 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $95.19, for a total transaction of $11,898,750.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 1,011,345 shares in the company, valued at $96,269,930.55. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In related news, insider Charles Aubrey Smith III sold 5,600 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, July 19th. The stock was sold at an average price of $92.41, for a total value of $517,496.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 136,513 shares in the company, valued at approximately $12,615,166.33. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, CEO James P. Gorman sold 125,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, July 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $95.19, for a total transaction of $11,898,750.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 1,011,345 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $96,269,930.55. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders sold 369,100 shares of company stock worth $34,634,996. 0.26% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Morgan Stanley Company Profile (Free Report) Morgan Stanley, a financial holding company, provides various financial products and services to corporations, governments, financial institutions, and individuals in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. It operates through Institutional Securities, Wealth Management, and Investment Management segments. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Morgan Stanley Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Morgan Stanley and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO Get Free Report) has earned a consensus rating of Moderate Buy from the four analysts that are covering the firm, MarketBeat.com reports. One research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the company. The average twelve-month target price among brokerages that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $36.25. A number of equities analysts recently weighed in on the stock. DNB Markets downgraded shares of Novo Nordisk A/S from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, August 11th. HSBC assumed coverage on Novo Nordisk A/S in a research note on Friday, July 14th. They set a buy rating for the company. Finally, StockNews.com upgraded Novo Nordisk A/S from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Friday, September 22nd. Get Novo Nordisk A/S alerts: View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Novo Nordisk A/S Institutional Trading of Novo Nordisk A/S Novo Nordisk A/S Stock Down 0.1 % Several hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Ritter Daniher Financial Advisory LLC DE acquired a new position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S during the first quarter valued at about $28,000. Stone House Investment Management LLC boosted its stake in Novo Nordisk A/S by 55.3% during the 2nd quarter. Stone House Investment Management LLC now owns 177 shares of the companys stock valued at $29,000 after purchasing an additional 63 shares during the last quarter. Cornerstone Planning Group LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in the second quarter worth approximately $29,000. Sageworth Trust Co bought a new position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in the first quarter valued at approximately $31,000. Finally, Strengthening Families & Communities LLC purchased a new position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S during the first quarter valued at approximately $32,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 6.41% of the companys stock. Shares of NVO opened at $91.72 on Thursday. The company has a market capitalization of $411.60 billion, a PE ratio of 43.47, a PEG ratio of 1.76 and a beta of 0.44. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $49.70 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $43.42. The company has a current ratio of 0.88, a quick ratio of 0.70 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21. Novo Nordisk A/S has a 12 month low of $48.58 and a 12 month high of $100.88. Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, August 10th. The company reported $0.32 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.34 by ($0.02). Novo Nordisk A/S had a net margin of 33.49% and a return on equity of 81.09%. The company had revenue of $7.93 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $8.44 billion. On average, analysts anticipate that Novo Nordisk A/S will post 2.12 EPS for the current year. Novo Nordisk A/S Cuts Dividend The company also recently announced a semi-annual dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, August 29th. Stockholders of record on Monday, August 21st were given a dividend of $0.2209 per share. This represents a dividend yield of 0.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, August 18th. Novo Nordisk A/Ss payout ratio is 29.38%. Novo Nordisk A/S Company Profile (Get Free Report Novo Nordisk A/S, a healthcare company, engages in the research, development, manufacture, and marketing of pharmaceutical products worldwide. It operates in two segments, Diabetes and Obesity care, and Rare Disease. The Diabetes and Obesity care segment provides products in the areas of insulins, GLP-1 and related delivery systems, oral antidiabetic products, obesity, glucagon, needles, and other chronic diseases. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Novo Nordisk A/S Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Novo Nordisk A/S and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. ShoreHaven Wealth Partners LLC boosted its stake in iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF (BATS:USMV Free Report) by 30.9% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 48,467 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 11,440 shares during the quarter. iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF comprises 2.4% of ShoreHaven Wealth Partners LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 15th biggest position. ShoreHaven Wealth Partners LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF were worth $3,603,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. A number of other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Bank of Montreal Can boosted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 7.8% in the 1st quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 8,253 shares of the companys stock valued at $646,000 after purchasing an additional 594 shares in the last quarter. Blair William & Co. IL increased its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 1.7% during the first quarter. Blair William & Co. IL now owns 95,612 shares of the companys stock worth $7,417,000 after buying an additional 1,612 shares in the last quarter. AJ Wealth Strategies LLC lifted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 4.4% in the 1st quarter. AJ Wealth Strategies LLC now owns 1,348,690 shares of the companys stock valued at $104,618,000 after acquiring an additional 57,434 shares during the last quarter. Founders Financial Securities LLC boosted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 27.0% during the 1st quarter. Founders Financial Securities LLC now owns 88,779 shares of the companys stock valued at $6,887,000 after acquiring an additional 18,853 shares in the last quarter. Finally, West Michigan Advisors LLC grew its position in iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 6.1% during the 1st quarter. West Michigan Advisors LLC now owns 12,575 shares of the companys stock worth $975,000 after acquiring an additional 719 shares during the last quarter. Get iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF alerts: iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF Trading Down 0.3 % USMV traded down $0.24 on Thursday, reaching $72.67. The stock had a trading volume of 2,809,433 shares. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $74.74 and a 200-day moving average of $73.51. iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF has a fifty-two week low of $47.44 and a fifty-two week high of $55.45. The company has a market capitalization of $27.88 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.17 and a beta of 0.75. iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF Company Profile The iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF (USMV) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI USA Minimum Volatility (USD) index. The fund tracks an index of US-listed firms selected and weighted to create a low-volatility portfolio subject to various constraints. USMV was launched on Oct 18, 2011 and is managed by BlackRock. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. TD SYNNEX Co. (NYSE:SNX Get Free Report) has been assigned an average rating of Moderate Buy from the nine ratings firms that are covering the firm, MarketBeat reports. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation, four have given a buy recommendation and one has given a strong buy recommendation to the company. The average 12-month price target among analysts that have covered the stock in the last year is $110.00. Several analysts have weighed in on SNX shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. dropped their price objective on shares of TD SYNNEX from $118.00 to $112.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday. Stifel Nicolaus lifted their price objective on shares of TD SYNNEX from $110.00 to $120.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, September 19th. Bank of America dropped their price objective on shares of TD SYNNEX from $120.00 to $115.00 in a research note on Wednesday, June 28th. Credit Suisse Group dropped their target price on shares of TD SYNNEX from $106.00 to $90.00 in a research report on Wednesday, June 28th. Finally, Barclays boosted their target price on shares of TD SYNNEX from $98.00 to $99.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Wednesday. Get TD SYNNEX alerts: View Our Latest Research Report on SNX Insider Activity at TD SYNNEX Institutional Investors Weigh In On TD SYNNEX In related news, major shareholder Apollo Management Holdings Gp, sold 2,300,000 shares of TD SYNNEX stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, July 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $94.50, for a total transaction of $217,350,000.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 35,499,882 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,354,738,849. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website . In related news, major shareholder Apollo Management Holdings Gp, sold 2,300,000 shares of TD SYNNEX stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, July 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $94.50, for a total transaction of $217,350,000.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 35,499,882 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,354,738,849. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website . Also, insider Dennis Polk sold 8,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, July 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $92.60, for a total transaction of $740,800.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 132,402 shares in the company, valued at $12,260,425.20. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . In the last three months, insiders have sold 2,355,766 shares of company stock valued at $222,785,736. 1.70% of the stock is owned by insiders. A number of institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in SNX. American Century Companies Inc. grew its holdings in TD SYNNEX by 31.5% during the 1st quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 20,197 shares of the business services providers stock worth $2,085,000 after acquiring an additional 4,841 shares during the last quarter. US Bancorp DE boosted its stake in shares of TD SYNNEX by 11.6% in the 1st quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 7,213 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $745,000 after purchasing an additional 747 shares during the last quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. boosted its stake in shares of TD SYNNEX by 7.6% in the 1st quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 9,614 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $992,000 after purchasing an additional 677 shares during the last quarter. Bank of Montreal Can boosted its stake in shares of TD SYNNEX by 202.3% in the 1st quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 53,183 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $5,569,000 after purchasing an additional 35,593 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund bought a new stake in shares of TD SYNNEX in the 1st quarter valued at $1,065,000. 84.00% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. TD SYNNEX Stock Performance NYSE SNX opened at $99.44 on Thursday. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $99.56 and a 200-day moving average of $94.94. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.46, a quick ratio of 0.76 and a current ratio of 1.30. The stock has a market cap of $9.32 billion, a PE ratio of 14.17, a P/E/G ratio of 1.16 and a beta of 1.61. TD SYNNEX has a 52-week low of $78.86 and a 52-week high of $111.57. TD SYNNEX (NYSE:SNX Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, September 26th. The business services provider reported $2.78 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.47 by $0.31. TD SYNNEX had a net margin of 1.10% and a return on equity of 13.25%. The business had revenue of $13.96 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $14.11 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $2.69 EPS. The businesss revenue was down 9.1% on a year-over-year basis. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that TD SYNNEX will post 10.46 EPS for the current year. TD SYNNEX Announces Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, October 27th. Investors of record on Friday, October 13th will be issued a dividend of $0.35 per share. This represents a $1.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.41%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, October 12th. TD SYNNEXs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 19.94%. About TD SYNNEX (Get Free Report TD SYNNEX Corporation operates as a distributor and solutions aggregator for the information technology (IT) ecosystem. The company offers personal computing devices and peripherals, mobile phones and accessories, printers, supplies, and endpoint technology software; and data center technologies, such as hybrid cloud, security, storage, networking, servers, technology software, and converged and hyper-converged infrastructure, as well as computing components. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for TD SYNNEX Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for TD SYNNEX and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Teacher Retirement System of Texas increased its position in shares of Boston Scientific Co. (NYSE:BSX Free Report) by 33.9% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 455,433 shares of the medical equipment providers stock after purchasing an additional 115,327 shares during the period. Teacher Retirement System of Texas holdings in Boston Scientific were worth $24,634,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Fiduciary Alliance LLC bought a new stake in Boston Scientific in the 2nd quarter valued at $25,000. Householder Group Estate & Retirement Specialist LLC purchased a new position in shares of Boston Scientific in the 1st quarter worth $26,000. Asset Dedication LLC boosted its stake in shares of Boston Scientific by 109.5% during the 1st quarter. Asset Dedication LLC now owns 551 shares of the medical equipment providers stock worth $27,000 after purchasing an additional 288 shares during the period. Sunbelt Securities Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Boston Scientific during the 1st quarter worth about $32,000. Finally, BerganKDV Wealth Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of Boston Scientific by 44.3% during the 1st quarter. BerganKDV Wealth Management LLC now owns 658 shares of the medical equipment providers stock worth $33,000 after purchasing an additional 202 shares during the period. 89.11% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Boston Scientific alerts: Boston Scientific Stock Performance Shares of NYSE:BSX opened at $52.10 on Thursday. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $52.37 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $51.93. Boston Scientific Co. has a fifty-two week low of $38.22 and a fifty-two week high of $55.38. The stock has a market capitalization of $76.29 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 86.83, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.07 and a beta of 0.78. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.46, a current ratio of 1.29 and a quick ratio of 0.80. Insiders Place Their Bets Boston Scientific ( NYSE:BSX Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 27th. The medical equipment provider reported $0.53 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.49 by $0.04. Boston Scientific had a return on equity of 15.16% and a net margin of 6.81%. The firm had revenue of $3.60 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.50 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $0.44 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was up 10.9% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, analysts predict that Boston Scientific Co. will post 1.99 EPS for the current fiscal year. In other Boston Scientific news, SVP Vance R. Brown sold 15,750 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, August 25th. The stock was sold at an average price of $50.52, for a total value of $795,690.00. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 28,578 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,443,760.56. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. In other Boston Scientific news, SVP Vance R. Brown sold 15,750 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, August 25th. The stock was sold at an average price of $50.52, for a total value of $795,690.00. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 28,578 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,443,760.56. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, EVP Joseph Michael Fitzgerald sold 15,867 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, September 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of $55.00, for a total value of $872,685.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 197,992 shares in the company, valued at approximately $10,889,560. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders have sold 217,635 shares of company stock valued at $11,566,176. 0.71% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several research firms have recently commented on BSX. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their price target on shares of Boston Scientific from $58.00 to $60.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, September 21st. Citigroup reiterated a buy rating and issued a $63.00 price objective on shares of Boston Scientific in a research note on Thursday, September 21st. StockNews.com lowered shares of Boston Scientific from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, September 2nd. Evercore ISI reissued an outperform rating and issued a $60.00 price target on shares of Boston Scientific in a research note on Tuesday, September 19th. Finally, Raymond James lifted their price target on shares of Boston Scientific from $60.00 to $61.00 in a research report on Friday, July 28th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, fifteen have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $60.10. Read Our Latest Analysis on Boston Scientific About Boston Scientific (Free Report) Boston Scientific Corporation develops, manufactures, and markets medical devices for use in various interventional medical specialties worldwide. It operates through MedSurg and Cardiovascular segments. The company offers devices to diagnose and treat gastrointestinal and pulmonary conditions; devices to treat various urological and pelvic conditions; implantable cardioverter and implantable cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillators; pacemakers and implantable cardiac resynchronization therapy pacemakers; and remote patient management systems. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BSX? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Boston Scientific Co. (NYSE:BSX Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Boston Scientific Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Boston Scientific and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. TFB Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of iShares Morningstar U.S. Equity ETF (NYSEARCA:ILCB Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm acquired 4,985 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $304,000. Several other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the company. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of iShares Morningstar U.S. Equity ETF by 1.5% during the 1st quarter. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. now owns 149,696 shares of the companys stock valued at $8,444,000 after acquiring an additional 2,212 shares in the last quarter. CI Private Wealth LLC bought a new position in iShares Morningstar U.S. Equity ETF during the 4th quarter worth $63,000. Merit Financial Group LLC raised its position in iShares Morningstar U.S. Equity ETF by 0.3% during the 1st quarter. Merit Financial Group LLC now owns 70,590 shares of the companys stock worth $3,982,000 after purchasing an additional 241 shares during the last quarter. Royal Bank of Canada raised its position in iShares Morningstar U.S. Equity ETF by 5.4% during the 1st quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 70,226 shares of the companys stock worth $4,414,000 after purchasing an additional 3,604 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company MN raised its position in iShares Morningstar U.S. Equity ETF by 3.4% during the 2nd quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN now owns 61,018 shares of the companys stock worth $3,170,000 after purchasing an additional 2,012 shares during the last quarter. Get iShares Morningstar U.S. Equity ETF alerts: iShares Morningstar U.S. Equity ETF Stock Up 0.0 % Shares of NYSEARCA:ILCB opened at $58.69 on Thursday. The firm has a market cap of $754.19 million, a P/E ratio of 22.25 and a beta of 1.01. iShares Morningstar U.S. Equity ETF has a 12-month low of $48.13 and a 12-month high of $63.36. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $61.43 and a 200 day simple moving average of $59.03. iShares Morningstar U.S. Equity ETF Profile The iShares Morningstar U.S. Equity ETF (ILCB) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the Morningstar US Large-Mid Cap index. The fund tracks a market cap-weighted index consists of both growth and value stocks, selected from the top 90% of the US market-cap spectrum. ILCB was launched on Jun 28, 2004 and is managed by BlackRock. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ILCB? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Morningstar U.S. Equity ETF (NYSEARCA:ILCB Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares Morningstar U.S. Equity ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Morningstar U.S. Equity ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wallington Asset Management LLC increased its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS Free Report) by 1.3% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 32,956 shares of the investment management companys stock after purchasing an additional 436 shares during the quarter. The Goldman Sachs Group accounts for 1.9% of Wallington Asset Management LLCs holdings, making the stock its 22nd largest holding. Wallington Asset Management LLCs holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group were worth $10,630,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Tower View Investment Management & Research LLC acquired a new position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group during the 4th quarter worth about $27,000. Pacific Center for Financial Services acquired a new position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group during the 1st quarter worth about $33,000. Worth Asset Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group during the 1st quarter worth about $33,000. NewSquare Capital LLC boosted its position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 3,433.3% during the 1st quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 106 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $35,000 after acquiring an additional 103 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Boulder Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group during the 4th quarter worth about $39,000. 69.06% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get The Goldman Sachs Group alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth GS has been the subject of several analyst reports. Citigroup lowered their price objective on The Goldman Sachs Group from $400.00 to $380.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, September 21st. StockNews.com began coverage on The Goldman Sachs Group in a report on Thursday, August 17th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Credit Suisse Group reissued an outperform rating and issued a $410.00 target price on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a report on Thursday, July 20th. Oppenheimer reduced their target price on The Goldman Sachs Group from $461.00 to $450.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Tuesday. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their target price on The Goldman Sachs Group from $415.00 to $398.00 in a report on Friday, July 7th. Seven research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have given a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $394.32. The Goldman Sachs Group Stock Performance Shares of GS stock opened at $321.98 on Thursday. The company has a market cap of $106.15 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.74, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.27 and a beta of 1.40. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $336.59 and a 200-day simple moving average of $329.88. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a 12-month low of $287.75 and a 12-month high of $389.58. The company has a current ratio of 0.81, a quick ratio of 0.81 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.18. The Goldman Sachs Group (NYSE:GS Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, July 19th. The investment management company reported $3.08 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $3.25 by ($0.17). The business had revenue of $10.90 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $10.61 billion. The Goldman Sachs Group had a return on equity of 8.27% and a net margin of 9.74%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 8.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the company posted $7.73 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts forecast that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 25.55 EPS for the current year. The Goldman Sachs Group Increases Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, September 28th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, August 31st will be paid a dividend of $2.75 per share. This represents a $11.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.42%. This is an increase from The Goldman Sachs Groups previous quarterly dividend of $2.50. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, August 30th. The Goldman Sachs Groups dividend payout ratio is 46.93%. Insider Transactions at The Goldman Sachs Group In other news, major shareholder Goldman Sachs Group Inc sold 1,145,486 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, June 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $11.73, for a total transaction of $13,436,550.78. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 50,099,392 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $587,665,868.16. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. In related news, CEO David M. Solomon sold 4,200 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, August 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $356.28, for a total value of $1,496,376.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 124,782 shares in the company, valued at approximately $44,457,330.96. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, major shareholder Goldman Sachs Group Inc sold 1,145,486 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, June 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $11.73, for a total value of $13,436,550.78. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 50,099,392 shares in the company, valued at approximately $587,665,868.16. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last three months, insiders sold 1,159,686 shares of company stock valued at $18,390,027. Corporate insiders own 0.54% of the companys stock. The Goldman Sachs Group Company Profile (Free Report) The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc, a financial institution, provides a range of financial services for corporations, financial institutions, governments, and individuals worldwide. It operates through Global Banking & Markets, Asset & Wealth Management, and Platform Solutions segments. The Global Banking & Markets segment provides financial advisory services, including strategic advisory assignments related to mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, corporate defense activities, restructurings, and spin-offs; and relationship lending, and acquisition financing, as well as secured lending, through structured credit and asset-backed lending and involved in resale agreements. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Weaver Consulting Group purchased a new position in shares of Stantec Inc. (NYSE:STN Free Report) (TSE:STN) during the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor purchased 3,408 shares of the business services providers stock, valued at approximately $222,000. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Stantec during the 4th quarter worth $26,000. US Bancorp DE grew its stake in shares of Stantec by 144.4% during the 1st quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 765 shares of the business services providers stock worth $38,000 after purchasing an additional 452 shares during the period. SJS Investment Consulting Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Stantec during the 2nd quarter worth $82,000. Exchange Traded Concepts LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Stantec in the 1st quarter worth about $158,000. Finally, Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ purchased a new stake in shares of Stantec in the 1st quarter worth about $219,000. 58.17% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Stantec alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets Several equities research analysts recently commented on the stock. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their price objective on shares of Stantec from $98.00 to $105.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 12th. Canaccord Genuity Group lowered shares of Stantec from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, August 10th. Finally, StockNews.com lowered shares of Stantec from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 16th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $82.20. Stantec Price Performance NYSE:STN opened at $65.12 on Thursday. The firm has a market cap of $7.23 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 32.89 and a beta of 0.93. The company has a current ratio of 1.47, a quick ratio of 1.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.60. The companys 50-day moving average is $66.51 and its two-hundred day moving average is $62.67. Stantec Inc. has a 12-month low of $43.04 and a 12-month high of $69.02. Stantec (NYSE:STN Get Free Report) (TSE:STN) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, August 9th. The business services provider reported $0.74 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.70 by $0.04. The company had revenue of $952.03 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $915.79 million. Stantec had a net margin of 4.78% and a return on equity of 16.29%. Research analysts expect that Stantec Inc. will post 2.62 EPS for the current year. Stantec Increases Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, October 16th. Stockholders of record on Friday, September 29th will be issued a dividend of $0.147 per share. This is a positive change from Stantecs previous quarterly dividend of $0.14. This represents a $0.59 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.90%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, September 28th. Stantecs dividend payout ratio is presently 28.79%. Stantec Profile (Free Report) Stantec Inc provides e professional services in the areas of infrastructure and facilities to the public and private sectors clients in Canada, the United States, and internationally. The company provides consulting services in engineering, architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, surveying, environmental sciences, project management, and project economics. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Stantec Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Stantec and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. The All-China Women's Federation (ACWF) and the People's Government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region co-hosted the 2023 China-ASEAN Women's Forum in Liuzhou, a city in South China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, on September 15. The forum's theme was "Innovation in Science and Technology for Women's Development." Huang Xiaowei, Vice-President and First Member of the Secretariat of the ACWF, and Vice-Chairperson of the National Working Committee on Children and Women under the State Council, attended the forum. She delivered the keynote speech. Huang said China and ASEAN are linked by mountains and waters, as well as hearts and aspirations. With the strategic guidance and personal commitment of Chinese President Xi Jinping and leaders of ASEAN countries, China and ASEAN have moved forward hand-in-hand, and have embarked together on a path of long-term good neighborliness and friendship and of common development and prosperity. Women have witnessed and made contributions to the friendly communications and mutually beneficial cooperation between China and ASEAN; sisters from all countries have learned good practices from each other, deepened affections, and contributed women's strength as holding up "half the sky" to building a peaceful, safe and secure, prosperous, beautiful and amicable home for a closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future, Huang added. The Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), with Comrade Xi at its core, applies a people-centered development philosophy, remains committed to the fundamental national policy of gender equality, advances women's causes in accordance with economic and social development, and leads Chinese women's undertakings to reach historic progress, Huang noted. China attaches importance to women's roles in innovation in science and technology, and the country has undertaken a series of measures to strengthen support for women scientific and technological workers and help them progress and show their potential. The 20th CPC National Congress (held in 2022) lifted the significance of science, technology, talent resource and innovation to a new level and built a wider stage for women to participate in the innovation of science and technology. China is willing to work with sisters from ASEAN countries to advance and share innovation in science and technology, and to play a greater role in bringing common benefits to humankind. Distinguished speakers included: Ing Kantha Phavi, Minister of Women's Affairs of Cambodia; Bintang Puspayoga, Minister for Women's Empowerment and Child Protection of Indonesia; Nancy Shukri, Minister of Women, Family and Community Development of Malaysia; Lavan Southisan, Vice-President of Lao Women's Union; Thet Thet Zin, President of Myanmar Women's Affairs Federation; Sun Xueling, Minister of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Social and Family Development of Singapore; and, Ceu Brites, Vice-Minister of Social Solidarity and Inclusion of Timor-Leste. The guests spoke of China's development and achievements, expressed gratitude for the exchange platform built by China, and expressed their willingness to enhance global cooperation on women's causes, promote the benefits brought by science and technology to people of all countries, and make new contributions to advance the China-ASEAN comprehensive strategic partnership and build the Belt and Road. Liao Pinhu, Vice-Governor of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Director of Guangxi Working Committee on Children and Women, Wang Hongyang, Academician with the Chinese Academy of Engineering and President of Chinese Women Scientists Association, Wu Wei, Secretary of the CPC Liuzhou Municipal Committee, and Xu Jing, Counselor with the Department of Asian Affairs from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, also delivered speeches. Lin Yi, Vice-President and Member of the Secretariat of the ACWF, presided over the forum. More than 200 participants attended the forum, including women representatives from the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Liuzhou City, several provincial women's federations, the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macao, overseas Chinese, as well as heads of women's institutions and organizations of ASEAN countries, experts and scholars, women entrepreneurs and women international students in China. The participants exchanged views during panel discussions on "Empowering Women Entrepreneurs and Innovators through Digital Economy" and "Cultivation of Female S&T Talents." The 2023 China-ASEAN Women's Forum Initiative was adopted. Huang met several distinguished guests during the forum. The 2023 China-ASEAN Women's Forum was an important side event of the 20th China-ASEAN Expo. Attendees to the women's forum also had field visits in Liuzhou and Nanning, both in Guangxi. (Source: Liaison Department of the All-China Women's Federation) Emirates has announced that its highly sought-after Premium Economy offering will be introduced to two more points in its network, Sao Paolo from November 19 and Tokyo Narita from December 20. Sao Paolo will become the airlines fifth point in its North and South American network where flights will operate with the new cabin class, while Tokyo Narita will become the second gateway in Emirates Far East network which offers its latest cabin product, featuring extra legroom, premium features and amenities. As the airlines retrofit programme picks up pace and the product extends to more routes on its network, Sao Paolo will become the 13th city where Emirates will operate its newly retrofitted flagship A380 aircraft, while the number of points offering Premium Economy will grow to 14 with the addition of Tokyo Narita. Besides featuring the new Premium Economy seats, the enhanced aircraft that will operate on the routes also boast refreshed interiors that provide an elevated experience throughout the other cabins, with a new look and feel. From November 19, travellers flying between Dubai and Sao Paolo can book Emirates Premium Economy seats on EK261/262, which will initially be available three times weekly, scaling up to daily flights in December. Premium Economy on flights EK318/319, to and from Tokyo Narita, will launch as a daily offering from December 20. The aircraft to be deployed on the routes in a four-class configuration, feature 56 seats in Premium Economy, located at the front of the main deck and laid out in a 2-4-2 configuration, in addition to 338 seats in Economy Class, 76 in Business Class and 14 First Class suites. Sao Paolo is one of the latest destinations that will be operated by the enhanced A380 aircraft in a four-class configuration and marks the entry of Premium Economy in Emirates Latin American network. Tokyo Narita is the airlines first gateway in Japan where Premium Economy will be available and follows the debut of the product in Singapore in July. Since Premium Economy was introduced to Emirates offering one year ago, more than 160,000 customers have traded up from Economy Class, choosing to try the elevated experience it provides. Emirates currently flies its A380s with Premium Economy seats to global destinations including London Heathrow, Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, Christchurch, Singapore, Los Angeles, New York JFK, Houston and San Francisco. Premium Economy will also debut on Emirates flights to Mumbai and Bengaluru from 29 October. On the retrofitted aircraft, the refreshed interiors sport Emirates signature ghaf tree motif as well as other aesthetic enhancements, beautiful designs and new colour palettes, evident throughout the aircraft. Emirates currently operates daily flights between Sao Paulo and Dubai, connecting passengers to more than 130 destinations in its worldwide network. Emirates Brazilian operations also includes a Boeing 777 service between Dubai and Rio de Janeiro, which connects travellers to Buenos Aires. Emirates also serves its customers in Japan through its three gateways, with daily flights to Tokyo Narita, Tokyo Haneda and Osaka Kansai. TradeArabia News Service Mr Cohen's investment in GameStop helped trigger a share price run of the companys stock - News Scan The billionaire who fuelled GameStops dumb money stock surge two years ago has been named as the US retailers new chief executive. Ryan Cohen, who was already the companys executive chairman and biggest shareholder, will take the reins at the US video game retailer as he attempts to turnaround the chain. Mr Cohens investment in GameStop in late 2020 helped trigger a share price run of the companys stock in January 2021, as part of a surge in demand for meme stocks during lockdown. The investor and entrepreneur had taken roughly a 12pc stake in the business before being appointed to its board. Amateur investors who coordinated on the Reddit forum Wall Street Bets and supported Mr Cohen began buying up shares in the struggling retail chain, which had been targeted by short sellers. GameStops stock skyrocketed 1,500pc in two weeks, costing hedge funds that had bet against the companys stock billions of dollars. After surging as high as $81 per share, GameStop shares subsequently crashed back down to earth and currently trade at around $17 each. Trading apps put restrictions on buying shares in the company during the saga, while one US regulator said the surge had no basis in reality. The episode was chronicled in the recently released Hollywood film, Dumb Money. Shares in GameStop jumped 10pc on Mr Cohens appointment. He will serve as president, chief executive and chairman of GameStop, and will not receive a salary. In June, GameStop fired former chief executive Matthew Furlong, who was previously an Amazon executive and was brought in to revitalise the bricks and mortar retailer. Mr Cohen previously founded Chewy, an online pet food store, which was sold for $3.3bn in 2017. The entrepreneur has been hailed by speculators as the meme King for his investment in the otherwise unloved GameStop. Dumb Money stars Paul Dano as Keith Gill, an investor and YouTuber, who bought around $50,000 worth of GameStop shares, disclosing his bet to other speculators online. Story continues The investor, who posted online under the name Deep F****** Value, at one stage saw his position in the company surge to $50m. US regulators investigated the incident but ultimately found no evidence of market manipulation during the surge in GameStops shares. Recommended GameStop blockbuster Dumb Money to come with stock market hysteria warnings Read more 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 Chinese hackers who breached multiple US government agencies in May stole some 60,000 emails from senior State Department officials, including information on officials travel itineraries, a Senate staffer briefed on the matter told CNN. Judge Tanya Chutkan has rejected Donald Trumps demand that she recuse herself from Trump's federal 2020 election subversion case. Boris Pistorius, Federal Minister of Defense, right, meets his Israeli counterpart, Joav Galant in Berlin, Thursday Sept. 28, 2023. Israel and Germany have signed an agreement on the purchase of the Israeli Arrow 3 missile defense system by Berlin. (Britta Pedersen/dpa via AP) BERLIN (AP) Germany and Israel on Thursday signed an agreement for Berlin to buy the sophisticated Arrow 3 missile defense system, designed to intercept long-range ballistic missiles. The development is the latest step in Berlin's bid to strengthen its air defenses following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Germany aims to integrate the system into wider NATO air defense efforts. Last year, Berlin launched the European Sky Shield Initiative, which now includes 19 countries. Israel secured U.S. approval in August for the $3.5 billion deal, which was needed because the system was jointly developed with the United States. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant signed a memorandum of understanding in Berlin on Thursday for the purchase of Arrow 3. It is, without exaggerating, a historic day for both our countries, Pistorius told reporters, describing Arrow as one of the best systems, if not the best. We see from the daily Russian attacks on Ukraine how important air defense is in general, he added. Air defense is essential, and particularly for us here in the center of Europe. Germany plans to start using Arrow in late 2025, with the system then being built up step by step. Gallant said that with two simple signatures today, we made history" and that Israel is committed to a timely and effective delivery. This is a moving event for every Jew, he added, pointing to Israel's partnership with Germany decades after the Holocaust and to German contributions to Israel's security. Only 80 years since the end of the second world war, yet Israel and Germany join hands today in building a safer future for both nations, Gallant said. Bryan Kohberger enters the courtroom for a hearing at the Latah County Courthouse in Moscow, Idaho, on June 27. BERLIN (Reuters) - German Chancellor Olaf Scholz told business weekly Wirtschaftswoche that he was not convinced about the need to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EV). The European Commission is investigating whether it should impose punitive tariffs to protect European Union automakers from cheaper Chinese EV imports it says are benefiting from state subsidies. "I am not very convinced of this, to put it politely," Scholz told Wirtschaftswoche in an interview published on Thursday. "Our economic model should not be based or rely on protectionism - but on the attractiveness of our products." He noted that there had been similar concerns when Japanese automakers entered the German market in the 1980s and also in the 1990s when South Korean companies came. "And yet we held our ground," he said. (Reporting by Maria Martinez; Editing by Kirsten Donovan) Provide testimony to the Rank-and-File Investigation into the UPS Contract by emailing upsrankandfilecommittee@gmail.com. No identifying information will be published without your explicit consent. A UPS driver puts his seat belt on before driving following a rally in downtown Los Angeles on Wednesday, July 19, 2023. [AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes] Conditions are worsening for former air UPS drivers in the Washington, DC area, a month after some told the World Socialist Web Site that UPS had cut their pay in half before the ratification of a new national contract. These workers had formerly worked as air drivers before being transferred by the company to other lower-tier positions. While these positions normally pay far less, management had assured them that they would keep their former wage levels. But shortly before the new five year contract was ratified, under suspicious circumstances, last month, management reneged on this promise, nearly halving their pay overnight. Since the new contract has gone into effect, the workers have been bumped up to $21.50 an hour, with an insulting 50 cents additional pay due to seniority. This is far less than the new top rate for air drivers, which is $36.69. Nationwide, the company has been steadily eliminating air driver positions, a part time job which topped out at over $30 in past contracts. This has led workers to describe the position, which involves the pick up and delivery of air packages too difficult for regular package delivery drivers to reach, as an endangered species at the company. To protect them from retaliation, workers interviewed for this article will be referred to by their initials, rather than their real names. We are working harder [now] than ever before, said J, a former Air Driver at the Dulles UPS hub in Northern Virginia. Its so scorching hot in here they said, referring to the loading docks where they had been transferred to from the air driver position. In the first week of September, the unofficial beginning of fall, temperatures reached nearly 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). According to the Washington Post, the Labor Day weekend was one of our hottest on record in the D.C. area. They want us to do a five-hour job in 2.5 hours while working at half the pay they previously received stated Z., another worker at the facility. Its like a sweatshop or a jail here. After the pay reduction, these workers are near poverty-levels. Between the time when his pay was cut and when the contracts new wages took effect, J said his pay had been reduced to $18.75. I made $18.75 an hour in 2016, said J, meaning that the pay cut had eliminated nearly 7 years worth of wage progression. About a year ago I was reclassified as car wash, a position which receives less pay, said J. I was told at the time that I would keep my pay rate. My heart is not in this job anymore, said Z. Its like theyre trying to get rid of us. Its so hot in here. Youre sweaty. People are so aggressive here. I could work at Walmart as a greeter and receive the same pay I currently receive. Asked if the Teamsters union were helping them to recover their pay, the workers were told keep filing grievances, with no further directions given. Ive got to ask the questions, J said. Nobody else knows anything. Z also described managers avoiding us like the plague whenever confronted about lost pay. In an interview earlier this month, UPS CEO Carol Tome revealed the real beneficiaries of the contract. Its not a $30 billion deal, she said, stating that the cost of the wage increases only will make a direct impact during the first year, raising costs by 46 percent, then it steps back down. Imagine what the last four years of the contract are, she said, mentioning the declining wage pay. Tome said the deal was good for us, meaning the shareholders and investors, not the workers. Online, workers have criticized the bureaucracys proclamations of supposedly historic gains for senior workers. One commented, Im so sick of seeing the average pay is 49 an hour, first off thats 5 years away, and second its not everyone. Another said, 5 years or 4 years it's all a wage concession. Used to be 90 days to top pay. The pay cuts came immediately before the contract representing 340,000 UPS Teamsters was declared to have passed under suspicious circumstances. The UPS national contract was the result of a conspiracy between UPS, the Teamsters and the Democratic administration of President Joe Biden to prevent a national strike. UPS workers voted overwhelmingly with 97 percent in favor of striking if a contract wasnt ratified when the previous one expired in July. They demanded $25 starting pay for part timers, safety and the elimination of the hated hybrid 22.4 warehouse-driver position. The contract was ratified under dubious circumstances, following a campaign of lies and intimidation by the Teamsters bureaucracy, including a fake strike ready campaign designed to frame the sellout as the product of a credible strike threat. To organize opposition to the sellout, workers formed the UPS Workers Rank-and-File Committee. In the aftermath of the contracts ratification, the Committee has launched a rank-and-file investigation into the contract, in order to comprehensively review every element of this process, as well as the contract itself. We will use the testimony of our coworkers, who are being silenced by the union bureaucracy and the company, to show how they violated the will of the rank-and-file as well as our democratic rights. We urge all UPS workers to write to the Committee to provide testimony about the violation of their rights up to and following the contract ratification by by emailing upsrankandfilecommittee@gmail.com. No identifying information will be published without your explicit consent. The WSWS Autoworker Newsletter encourages all workers with evidence of irregularities during the ratification to share them anonymously here. Sign up for text message updates on the auto contract fight by texting AUTO to (866) 847-1086. Join the next online meeting of the Autoworkers Rank-and-File Committee Network to discuss uniting workers in the US and Canada for an all-out strike across the auto industry. Register here to attend. Unifor President Lana Payne released a statement Tuesday night with the aim of steamrollering growing opposition to the sellout agreement that the union declared ratified last Sunday and the anti-democratic methods it used to secure a narrow 54 percent Yes vote. Unifor president Lana Payne [Photo: Unifor] The three-year agreementwhich Unifor now intends to make the pattern for similar sellouts at GM Canada and Stellantisprovides a meager 15 percent wage increase over three years, perpetuates the hated multi-tier wage system and provides no job security, under conditions where the automakers intend to use the transition to electric vehicle production to slash jobs wholesale. Paynes message was addressed to skilled trades workers at Ford, who have deluged Unifor officials with angry complaints after learning that the union declared the contract ratified in violation of an at least 35-year-old commitment to skilled trade workers at the Detroit Three that no contract would be adopted without their majority support. The World Socialist Web Site Autoworker Newsletter has publicized the skilled trades vote against the contract and the unions breaking of its own ratification rules, and provided a voice to the rank and file, who have been shut out of the negotiating process throughout. In her letter, Payne desperately sought to justify the unions arbitrary and anti-democratic actions. But she had to admitas workers have insistedto the existence of a 1988 Canadian Auto Workers (CAW) letter which blocks the ratification of a tentative agreement if it is rejected by skilled trades. Payne declared that the 1988 letter does not align with Ontarios labour code or the Unifor constitution and will be amended at the next meeting of the National Executive Board. In other words, the union tops have declared it null and void behind the backs of the workers, and will themselves only actually approve this anti-democratic maneuver retroactively. Responding to the union presidents dismissal of the long-established rights of skilled trades workers, a Ford Oakville worker told the WSWS Autoworker Newsletter, Their position is skilled trades dont matter. They dont have a voice. Union meetings with skilled trades workers in Oakville Monday and another planned for Thursday in Windsor are being held to allow workers to vent steam, but the union leadership has made clear that they will not change anything about the contract. Meetings could be heat[ed] but it gives them the opportunity to view their concerns, thats ok, John DAgnolo, the Unifor Local 200 president and chair of its Ford Master Bargaining Committee told AM800 Wednesday. Its not the first time weve had these types of meetings. Underscoring the Unifor top brass determination to ignore and suppress all opposition to the pattern settlement, DAgnolo added, If they have a local issue that might be outstanding that they want us to listen to them about, we will obviously see if we can resolve it with the company and see what we can do for them. Paynes Message to Unifor Skilled Trades members at Ford Motor Company leaves no avenue for workers to challenge the ratification of the agreement through union channels. Collective bargaining with Ford, she insists, is complete with new collective agreements in place. Payne goes on to argue that a majority of Unifor members covered by the agreement voted in favour of the sellout, and it would be undemocratic if the skilled trades, who comprise a minority within the workforce, were able to block the deal. This argument is entirely fraudulent. First, no one outside of the Unifor apparatus knows the vote totals. Only after workers raised a ruckus on social media did the union announce the 54 percent Yes vote. But it has refused to release any breakdown of total turnout, how many workers could not vote or abstained, or even a breakdown of the vote by union local. Given the slim figure announced by Unifor, it is certain that a majority of Ford workers did not vote in favour of the ratified sellout contract. That is, they either voted No, couldnt vote because of the deliberately cumbersome online voting process, or abstained. Second, and even more fundamentally, the Yes vote was a manipulated result. Throughout the current bargaining round with Ford, GM and Stellantis, Unifor has sought to sabotage the will of the membership at every turn. With 5,600 Ford autoworkers ready to strike, the union waited for two hours after the contract expired September 18 to announce a 24-hour extension, which was followed some 20 hours later by the announcement of a tentative agreement. Unifor then kept Ford workers completely in the dark on the details of their sellout until the day of ratification meetings, which were held online via Zoom. Workers were given less than 24 hours to consider self-serving highlights by the bureaucracy before having to vote by email. Workers have reported severe problems with the voting system, including some former and retired members being given access to vote. And in a clear indication of vote manipulation by the union officials who backed the tentative agreement, temporary part-time (TPT) workers were encouraged to register and vote after the ratification meetings, despite an earlier deadline set by Unifor. A worker has informed the WSWS Autoworker Newsletter that the stepdaughter of Unifor Local 200 President John DAgnolo sent out an email to more than 40 TPT workers on the day of the vote encouraging them to register, with financial secretary Darby McCloskey dangling the $4,000 signing bonus as an incentive to vote Yes. I firmly believe Unifor knew how votes were coming in and found themselves in a 50/50 situation, and not knowing if this ratification was going to pass or not, so they interfered, the worker told the WSWS. What happened to the democratic policy Unifor always pledges or does that only apply when it is convenient for them? Unifor is now moving quickly to use the sham deal at Ford to set the pattern for an agreement with GM, with the opening of negotiations Tuesday. Significantly, the union has thus far refused to set a strike deadline. Workers will not be able to countermand the Unifor bureaucracys criminality on the basis simply or primarily of a legal or procedural challenge. It is a political question and requires that they take the struggle into their own hands and fight to escalate the class struggle. In a statement published yesterday, the WSWS Autoworker Newsletter called on all Ford Canada workers, production and skilled trades, to fight for emergency meetings of Local 707 and Local 200 in Oakville and Windsor to pass resolutions demanding the removal of the bargaining committee for organizing this anti-democratic farce, the publication of the results in full to reveal Unifors skullduggery in its entirety, and the holding of a revote under the supervision of trusted rank-and-file workers. Ford workers should call for support from fellow autoworkers and all of Unifors 300,000 members, because they all confront the same anti-democratic bureaucracy. Autoworkers at the Detroit Three must form rank-and-file committees at every plant in coordination with the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC), putting power back in the hands of workers on the shop floor and uniting autoworkers in Canada, the US and Mexico in a North America-wide struggle against the auto bosses. Another mass grave has been discovered at Kokkuthodduwai in the Mullaitivu district of Sri Lankas Northern Province where the racialist war carried out by successive Colombo governments against the separatist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) ended in May 2009. Part of skeleton in mass grave site at Kokkuthodduwai, Mullaitivu district, Sri Lanka. [Photo: Facebook Virakesari] The site was accidentally found on June 29 by National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) workers while digging on a water-related project. The workers told the police, who informed the Mullaitivu Magistrate Court which ordered excavation of the suspected mass grave on July 6. The excavation team was led by Senior Archaeologist Professor Raj Somadeva working under the supervision of Mullaitivu Magistrate Tharmalingam Piradeepan. Former Jaffna University Professor Pusparatnam and students, Mullaitivu judicial medical officer Kanakasabapathy Vasudeva and Jaffna judicial medical officer S. Piranavan were also involved. While the exhumation stopped on September 18, the government-run Daily News, reported 17 females and one male have so far been found. The media has suggested that the human remains could be of former LTTE members who surrendered to the Sri Lankan military during the war. Recovered uniforms, which are similar to those worn by the LTTE, strongly back this suspicion. Various other objects, such as pieces of plastic and wire, were also found. Indicating that the mass grave could be the result of war crimes, an excavation official told the media that the skeletons were haphazardly placed in the pit and not in an orderly manner. According to the local press, the area was the site of many army camps between 1984 and the end of the war in 2009. M.A. Sumanthiran, a lawyer and a parliamentarian from the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), the main Tamil bourgeois party, publicly accused the excavation team of failing to follow any technical procedures, stating that the excavation and the recovery of human remains seems very haphazard. The state, he told the media, is not interested in finding out the entire truth around this particular site. We could even say that the state intends to cover up any truths that may emerge from investigating this mass grave site. The government of President Ranil Wickremesinghe and the capitalist state want to cover up the truth about this mass grave and other war crimes committed by the military during the protracted communal war. Wickremesinghes United National Party (UNP) initiated the conflict in July 1983 and continued it ruthlessly, along with successive Colombo governments. Tens of thousands of Tamil civilians were killed. Sumanthirans mild criticism of the governments excavations of the mass grave is aimed at deflecting attention from the TNAs collaboration with the UNP, past and present. At the same time his remarks are an attempt to exploit the deep-going anger of the Tamil masses over the war crimes committed during the conflict. The government initially tried to block any excavation of the burial grounds, claiming that the Mullaitivu District Secretariat did not have the funds. I know nothing about this burial ground, Public Security Ministry Secretary Liani Gunathilaka told the Daily Morning on July 12, in an attempt to wash the governments hands of any responsibility. Arrangements were only made to excavate after protests by Tamil people in the area. On July 12, families of the disappeared in Mullaitivu demanded international oversight of the ongoing excavation. These demands were ignored by government. Journalists for Democracy in Sri Lanka (JDS) reported on July 20, that a high-level meeting of government authorities ruled out any international involvement in the investigation. On July 29, a massive hartal (total closure of businesses and offices) was observed in the North and East, demanding Justice for the Kokkuthodduwai burial ground. The governments arbitrary decision not to allow to any international investigation of the mass grave is another indication of its acute nervousness over any exposure of war crimes. As the UN Human Rights Commission and other international organisations have documented, the Sri Lankan military operated with complete impunity during the war killing tens of thousands of Tamil civilians and injuring many more. Despite the existence of powerful evidence, only a handful of minor playerslower rank soldiershave been made scapegoats. None of the real war criminals has been prosecuted. Kokkuthodduwai is not the first mass grave discovered since the end of the war. A report issued in June by the JDS and other international organisations entitled Mass graves and failed exhumations in Sri Lanka establishes that around 20 mass graves have been discovered and partially exhumed to date. It states: None of Sri Lankas numerous Commissions of Inquiry were mandated to look into mass graves. Instead, efforts to uncover the truth have been stymied. Magistrates and forensic experts have been transferred abruptly. Police have delayed carrying out judicial orders, families lawyers have been denied access to sites, no efforts have been made to find living witnesses, no ante mortem data was collected and in the very rare cases where someone was convicted, they were then pardoned. An annex to report titled Mass Grave Information provides detailed descriptions of the 20 mass graves so far discovered, the majority in the war-torn North and East. A mass grave found near Mannar in the Northern Province in 2018, contained the skeletal remains of 136 individuals. Local residents said that it could date back to 1990 when the government re-escalated the war, following a brief truce with the LTTE. Another mass grave was found in 2013 in Matale, in the Central Highlands and about 150 kilometres from Colombo. It contained hundreds of bodies at what was believed to be a burial site for some of the tens of thousands of rural youth massacred under the UNP government of President R. Premadasa between 1988 and 1990. Sri Lankan Forensic and police officer working in January 2013 at a mass grave found in a hospital construction site in Matale, north east of Colombo, Sri Lanka. [AP Photo/Eranga Jayawardena] These sites were only excavated after political pressure was exerted on the respective Colombo governments. The investigations have been limited in order to protect the ruling elite and those sections of the Sri Lankan state apparatus responsible. According to the UN, 40,000 Tamils were killed during the final months of the war against the LTTE. While thousands of Tamils, including LTTE fighters, surrendered to the Sri Lankan army in front of their relatives and civilians. Their relatives are still protesting to demand information about what happened to their loved ones. While Sinhala racists and capitalist political parties in Sri Lankas South have kept their mouths shut about these mass graves, their Tamil counterparts respond by demanding intervention by the international communityi.e., the US and other imperialist powers. The communalist war carried out by successive Colombo governments was fully supported by US and other imperialists. It was only after its bloody end in 2009, that these imperialist powers began talking about war crimes, as a means of exerting pressure on Colombo to integrate it into their military-strategic offensive against China. In appealing to these powers, the Tamil bourgeois parties are offering their support for the US war drive against China, in order to secure international backing for a power-sharing arrangement with Colombo and guarantee privileges for the Tamil elite. While it is 14 years since the end of war, the relatives of those whose loved ones were disappeared in the North and East of Sri Lanka have engaged in constant protests to demand the whereabouts of their relatives. Justice must be delivered for these people who need to know the truth of what happened to their children, husbands and relatives. No Sri Lankan capitalist political partySinhala or Tamilis interested in uncovering the truth because they all have blood on their hands. The following lecture was delivered by Christoph Vandreier, the national secretary of the Sozialistische Gleichheitspartei (Socialist Equality Party) of Germany to the SEP (US) International Summer School, held between July 30 and August 4, 2023. All lectures to the school are available here. When one reads Healys Studies, they seem abstruse at first glance, given the eclectic formulations, incoherent presentation and arbitrary transitions. In the midst of massive political upheavals, Gerry Healy focuses on individual cognitive processes, which he mystifies with Hegelian phrases and completely detaches from the analysis of objective developments. Yet therein lies the very essence of his writings and speeches on dialectics. In his attempt to justify the opportunistic practice of the WRP (Workers Revolutionary Party), Healy was more and more drawing on all the idealist ideologies floating around the universities. Answering these concepts was essential to defending Marxism against these positions and grounding our movement in the historical experiences of the Trotskyist movement. David Norths critique, however, was also significant precisely because Healy was attempting to misuse a great legacy of the Marxist movement: the defense of the Marxist method, dialectical materialism, to elaborate the independent line of the working class in historical development. The defense of dialectical materialism and the fight against opportunism in the Trotskyist movement The question of philosophy and the attention the WRP gave to this was not initially of a negative character. It was itself based on a really critical tradition. David North discusses this at length in Leon Trotsky and the Development of Marxism,[ 1 ] which was written parallel to the critique of Healys Studies and lays out the basis of historical and dialectical materialism in a positive form. These two documents are very closely interlinked and must be read in their common context. The fundamental changes in the epoch of imperialism as a whole and especially in the phase after the October Revolution posed great challenges to Marxists in understanding the changes and directing revolutionary work towards them. Therefore, already for Lenin the examination of the Marxist method and philosophy was essential. In his work, Materialism and Empirio-criticism [ 2 ] and in his Philosophical Notebooks,[ 3 ] Lenin discussed in detail the questions of dialectical materialism, as well as historical materialism. Leon Trotsky Trotsky, too, based his struggle against the Stalinist bureaucracy on an accurate, dialectical understanding of world development and the first workers state, showing the close connection between the rejection of dialectics and an opportunist political line. He addressed himself to dialectics in a whole series of essays on science in the 1920s and he mastered the dialectical method in all his writings. In Leon Trotsky and the Development of Marxism, North writes: In this objective exposition of the real historical development, Trotsky demonstrated the bankruptcy of the metaphysical mode of thinking, which, proceeding from formal logic, rigidly counterposed the democratic revolution to the socialist revolution. Proceeding from a concrete analysis of the nature of the epoch, the relation of class forces on a world scale and the specific features of Chinese society and the development of its revolution, Trotsky demonstrated how, in accordance with objective social laws, the opposites of the democratic-national revolution and social revolution became identical and were transformed into one another. [ 4 ] Trotskys dialectical method can be studied in all of his writings. In his Critique of the Draft Program of the Communist International, Trotsky wrote: The international program must proceed directly from an analysis of the conditions and tendencies of the world economy and of the world political system taken as a whole in all its connections and contradictions, that is, with the mutually antagonistic interdependence of its separate parts. In the present epoch, to a much greater extent than in the past, the national orientation of the proletariat must and can flow only from a world orientation and not vice versa. [ 5 ] In Germany: What Next? Trotsky wrote: The gist of this Stalinist philosophy is quite plain: from the Marxist denial of the absolute contradiction [between fascism and Social Democracy] it deduces the general negation of the contradiction, even of the relative contradiction. This error is typical of vulgar radicalism. For if there is no contradiction whatsoever between democracy and fascismeven in the sphere of the form of the rule of the bourgeoisiethen these two regimes obviously enough must be equivalent. Whence the conclusion: Social Democracy equals fascism. [ 6 ] This is dialectical materialism in action! In his disputes with Sidney Hook and Max Eastman, and later with Burnham and Shachtman, Trotsky deliberately fought for the defense and development of the Marxist method against any pragmatic, empiricist or agnostic position. He understood very well the close connection between the repudiation of revolutionary politics and the abandonment of dialectical materialism. As Johannes and Clara, and also Joe, already discussed in more detail, Burnham and Shachtman maintained that the Soviet Union was no longer a workers state and that the bureaucracy had emerged as the new ruling class in what they referred to as state capitalism. Trotsky understood that this position expressed the skepticism of petty-bourgeois strata toward the working class, and already in The USSR in War sharpened the question very clearly. Behind the dispute over the sociological determination of the Soviet Union lay a completely different class axis, hostile to Marxism. Shachtmans agnostic position toward dialectical materialism resulted from his rejection of the working class as a revolutionary force, which was deeply grounded in petty-bourgeois thought in the United States. In A Petty-Bourgeois Opposition in the Socialist Workers Party, Trotsky stated: It was absolutely necessary to explain why the American radical intellectuals accept Marxism without the dialectic (a clock without a spring). The secret is simple. In no other country has there been such rejection of the class struggle as in the land of unlimited opportunity. The denial of social contradictions as the moving force of development led to the denial of the dialectic as the logic of contradictions in the domain of theoretical thought. Just as in the sphere of politics it was thought possible everybody could be convinced of the correctness of a just program by means of clever syllogisms and society could be reconstructed through rational measures. So in the sphere of theory it was accepted as proved that Aristotelian logic, lowered to the level of common sense, was sufficient for the solution of all questions. [ 7 ] In his struggle against the petty-bourgeois opposition in the SWP, Trotsky therefore devoted considerable attention to defending the Marxist method as the theoretical basis for the independent perspective of the working class. The ABC of Materialist Dialectics remains one of the clearest explanations of dialectical materialism, and therefore it is a very good basis to discuss the further development of these questions and the retreat of the WRP from these traditions. Trotsky explained: We call our dialectic materialist, since its roots are neither in heaven nor in the depths of our free will, but in objective reality, in nature. Consciousness grew out of the unconscious, psychology out of physiology, the organic world out of the inorganic, the solar system out of nebulae. On all the rungs of this ladder of development, the quantitative changes were transformed into qualitative. Our thought, including dialectical thought, is only one of the forms of the expression of changing matter. There is place within this system for neither God, nor Devil, nor immortal soul, nor eternal norms of laws and morals. The dialectic of thinking, having grown out of the dialectic of nature, possesses consequently a thoroughly materialist character.[ 8 ] This is, of course, the very foundation of Marxism, and most attacks on Marxism are aimed precisely at its materialist foundation, introducing in one way or another idealist concepts that give primacy to thought over being. As with Healy, this often works through the mystification of dialectics, which is why a clear understanding of materialist dialectics is significant for our discussion. Trotsky writes in this regard: Dialectical thinking is related to vulgar thinking in the same way that a motion picture is related to a still photograph. The motion picture does not outlaw the still photograph, but combines a series of them according to the laws of motion. Dialectics does not deny the syllogism, but teaches us to combine syllogisms in such a way as to bring our understanding closer to the eternally changing reality. Hegel in his Logic established a series of laws: change of quantity into quality, development through contradictions, conflict of content and form, interruption of continuity, change of possibility into inevitability, etc., which are just as important for theoretical thought as is the simple syllogism for more elementary tasks.[ 9 ] Trotsky elaborates this and explains some of these laws without the slightest mysticism. Dialectical thinking is necessary to understand things in their constant development from the lower to the higher. This is especially true of human society and its historical development through the class struggle. This is precisely why the rejection of the working class as a revolutionary force goes hand in hand with the rejection of dialectics and historical materialism. As discussed by Tomas, in 1962, the issues of 1939/40 reemerged in the conflict between the SWP and the SLL on the characterization of Cuba. Again, the political opportunism of the SWP was connected with an abandonment of dialectical materialism in the name of the facts. The SLL extended the struggle against Pabloite revisionism to the level of its underlying idealist methodology, and by doing so defended and developed the Marxist method, as David North explains in The Heritage We Defend. Cliff Slaughter In fact, the SLLs contribution to this struggle was considerable. As with Trotsky and Lenin, it was directly linked to the struggle against the opportunism of the SWP. In Opportunism and Empiricism, written mainly by Slaughter, it was said: When we attack empiricism we attack that method of approach which says all statements, to be meaningful, must refer to observable or measurable data in their immediately given form. This method insists that any abstract concepts, reflecting the general and historical implications of these facts, are meaningless. It neglects entirely that our general concepts reflect the laws of development and interconnection of the process which these facts help to constitute. Indeed, the so-called hard facts of concrete experience are themselves abstractions from this process. They are the result of the first approximation of our brains to the essential interrelations, laws of motion, contradictions of the eternally changing and complex world of matter of which they form part. Only higher abstractions, in advanced theory, can guide us to the meaning of these facts. What Lenin called the concrete analysis of concrete conditions is the opposite of a descent into empiricism.[ 10 ] If one restricts oneself to mere facts as they present themselves in the given moment, one actually tears them out of their real context, as if one takes a photo out of the video, as Trotsky describes. In fact, in the interpretation of these immediate facts, categories themselves come into play, which are not conscious. But the development of correct categories is itself part of knowledge and part of scientific work. And the central category of Marxism is class struggle. Slaughter explained this very well, and by this outlined the close connection between dialectical and historical materialism, that is, between epistemology and social theory. In order to be concrete, the analysis must begin with a class evaluation of every event, every phenomenon. The empiricist, who pretends to restrict himself to the bedrock of the facts alone, in fact imposes on the facts an unstated series of connections whose foundations are unstated. With Hansen and the Pabloites, their new reality is actually a list of abstractions like the colonial revolution, the process of de-Stalinization, irreversible trends, leftward-moving forces, mass pressure, etc. Like all statements about social phenomena, these are meaningless unless they are demonstrated to have specific class content, for the class struggle and exploitation are the content of all social phenomena. This discovery of Marx is the theoretical cornerstone which Hansen has lost, with all his talk about the facts.[ 11 ] Another important SLL work was Slaughters Introduction to Lenins Philosophical Notebooks. The Notebooks had first been published in English in 1961 and had provoked much debate. Lenins intense preoccupation with Hegel was interpreted as a turning away from materialism, and the new volume was contrasted with Lenins earlier writing on Empirio-criticism. Slaughter responded to these slurs and pointed out that Lenin always distinguished between the idealism of Hegel, which Lenin furiously rejected, and the actual advances made by Hegel in his critique of Kant and development of dialectical logic. He showed that the rigid demarcation which is now so often made between the pre-Hegelian and post-Hegelian phases of his political life are quite wrong, and that rather, there is a really dialectical development in Lenins own work. Slaughter also underscored that Lenins notebooks have to be studied in direct connection with his major works at this time, such as Imperialism, The Collapse of the Second International and Socialism and War, in which he applied the method of dialectical and historical materialism against the revisionists. V. I. Lenin As David North put it: Slaughters work, published originally in 1962, was a major contribution to the struggle for dialectical materialism within the Trotskyist movement, and it remains, to this day, perhaps the best exposition of the general features of the dialectical method. There is not any attempt to obscure the role of dialectics through recourse to pretentious and mystical language. The central points are clear: Man thinks with the aid of concepts, but these concepts are not fixed, but reflect constantly changing reality. The development of our revolutionary concepts is a reflection of the changes in the material world, the essence of which is penetrated by the Party in the course of its struggle to prepare and lead the socialist revolution. At each stage of its revolutionary activity within a capitalist world that is constantly changing, the Marxist party seeks to discover the inner laws of the world crisis. The dialectical movement has to be extracted from the world itself and expressed in concepts that are arrived at only as a result of protracted scientific work.[ 12 ] Slaughter directed this materialist concept directly against the empiricism of the SWP. He wrote: The essence of the history of the proletarian revolutionary movement is the conscious effort to develop scientific theory and a strategy conforming to that science. All talk about natural developments toward Marxism are an attack on the necessity to carry on this process. The empiricist believes that he can study the various parts of the social process as they present themselves from day to day. Adding these together will then give a realistic or objective total picture and international perspective. To assume that the dialectical method is a short cut which makes all this hard work [of economic, social and political analysis] unnecessary is the mistake of those who talk glibly about applying dialectics.[ 13 ] These quotes could be read as a direct answer to Healys Studies in Dialectics. Slaughters text was actually an important basis for the development of Norths critique, as he outlines in the political biography of Slaughter. As we discussed at this school, the American Committee for the Fourth International (ACFI) and the Workers League were founded on the basis of the struggle against the SWP and based themselves very much on the writings of the Socialist Labour League (SLL). After the split with Wohlforth, they worked again carefully through this heritage. When Wohlforth rejoined the Pabloites, he also joined them in their attack on dialectical materialism. As Evan discussed yesterday, even given certain weaknesses, the chapter on philosophy in The Fourth International and the Renegade Wohlforth explained the pragmatist outlook of Wohlforth very well and showed the significance of the struggle against pragmatism and for dialectical materialism in the building of the revolutionary movement. But really, the document as a whole is a powerful statement against pragmatism. Based on the appropriation of the historical heritage of the Trotskyist movement, the Workers League developed a clear understanding of the dialectical method that is unique. In the perspectives document of the WL from 1978, this is expressed in all clarity and sharpness. Even though it was already quoted by Tom, I will quote it again, since it is absolutely crucial for this discussion: There can be no real turn to the working class outside of the conscious struggle to preserve the lines of historical continuity between the present struggles of the working class and the revolutionary party as a unity of opposites and the whole content of the objective historical experiences of the class and the development of Bolshevism. It is only from the standpoint of the struggle to base the whole work of the Party on the historical gains of the struggle against revisionism and the immense political and theoretical capital that is the heritage left behind by Trotsky to the Fourth International that the fight against pragmatism within the ranks of the Party and, therefore, in the working class itself can be seriously mounted. As soon as the struggle against pragmatism is detached from the fight to maintain the direct historical connections between the daily practice of the cadres and the whole body of historical experiences through which the Trotskyist movement has passed, it degenerates into the most impotent forms of verbal jousting. Or, to put it even more accurately, it becomes simply another variety of pragmatism itself.[ 14 ] This extremely powerful conception of the Marxist method and the building of the party is directed against the objectivism and empiricism of the SWP, against the reconstruction theory of the Organisation Communiste Internationaliste (OCI)that is, the diminishing of the significance of the history of Trotskyismand, of course, against the growing opportunist tendency within the WRP. The degeneration of the WRP and the retreat from the struggle for Marxism The WRP moved in exactly the opposite direction. To the extent that it abandoned the struggle against Pabloism and developed an increasingly opportunistic practice, which we will discuss in more detail in further lectures, it detached the philosophical questions precisely from this concrete historical context. The issue of dialectics and emphasis on philosophical questions acquired a completely different character. The invocation of dialectics in and of itself, unrelated to its verification in the clarification of program and political analysis, turned the question of dialectics in another direction. Even in its split with the OCI, the SLL avoided the central political questions and instead centered on the Marxist method in and of itself. In a statement of the ICFI on the split with the OCI, which comrade North already quoted in the discussion, Slaughter stated: The split is not the result of organizational questions or misunderstandings. And it is not about tactical aspects of how to build the Fourth International. It is a political split, going to the foundations of the Fourth InternationalMarxist theory. Delegates from the SLL showed from the experience of building the revolutionary party in Britain that a thoroughgoing and difficult struggle against idealist ways of thinking was necessary which went much deeper than questions of agreement on programme and policy.[ 15 ] This is powerfully answered in How the WRP Betrayed Trotskyism, which states that the issue of dialectical materialism neither exhausted nor superseded the fundamental political and programmatic questions that remained to be addressed. Peter previously presented the full quote and discussed it. These questions became even clearer in the split with Alan Thornett. The WRP now very deliberately bypassed the political questions, because these would inevitably have led to a discussion of its own fragile basis in the campaign against the Heath government. Instead, it focused almost exclusively on the philosophical questions, increasingly detaching them from the assimilation of the history of the Trotskyist movement. In Whither Thornett?, Michael Banda even attacks Thornett for making a fetish of the program. The party does not have to start from the program, but from the present economic and social crisis and posit this on the program. The decisive question is not agreement on the program, but the nature and methods of the party itself, Banda states. The program is subordinate to the conflict of the partys practice and its theory.[ 16 ] The character of the WRP program, he seemed to be admitting, would ultimately be decided by the outcome of the deepening conflict between the partys opportunist practice and its formal adherence to revolutionary theory![ 17 ] David North wrote, answering Banda, in Gerry Healy and his Place in the History of the Fourth International. The mystification of dialectics and its separation from the struggle for the program of the revolutionary party took on more and more overt forms as the WRPs class axis shifted and its maneuvers became more opportunistic. University professors Cliff Slaughter, Geoff Pilling, Tom Kemp and Cyril Smith played an increasingly important role in the partys orientation. North wrote: Indeed, the more the theoretical work of the party became separated from and then directed against the struggle for Trotskyism, the more it became the special province of a middle class think tank composed of the four professors and Healy. The status of these men in the party, based on their academic training, was out of all proportion to their actual involvement in political work.[ 18 ] In September 1975, the College of Marxist Education was founded in Derbyshire, which was to become the center of the attack on Marxism. Education was increasingly directed toward learning unconscious dialectics, while Trotsky and the history of the Trotskyist movement no longer played a role. David North vividly summarizes Healys approach: Healys method of lecturing consisted of extended introductory remarks, which generally dealt with problems which had arisen in the work of the WRP. Up to this point, the audience followed Healy with lively interest. Then, he invariably turned to the blackboard and began drawing diagrams which supposedly represented stages in the cognitive process as manifested in the categories of the Hegelian dialectic. It was not long before the entire audience was utterly bewildered, having lost track of where semblance ended and appearance began, or at what stage finite became infinite and something turned into its other. Matters were not made any easier by the fact that Healy never drew the same diagram twice and it could never be predicted with certainty whether actuality would show up before existence or the other way around. Indeed, attempts by students to memorize Healys dialectic through all its adventures inevitably failed; because it never followed the same path on successive days.[ 19 ] Gerry Healy In June 1980, under the cover of introducing a new and eccentric branch agenda, Healy sought to establish a constitutional foundation for pragmatic impressionism in the day-to-day political work of the WRP. This was clearly outlined in a letter to all branch secretaries, written on June 14, 1980, by Healy. The purpose of this letter was, according to Healy, to train comrades in what is best described as the unconscious use of the dialectical method, just as one performs many skills and activities without necessarily being conscious that one is doing so. Consciousness of theoretical abstractions comes later when we begin to think and analyze what we have been doing, he wrote. In How the WRP Betrayed Trotskyism, this is answered in the following way: In other words, Healy had discovered that one could act as a Marxist without being conscious of itsome 20 years after the great American pragmatist Joseph Hansen had proclaimed this discovery to the world. How would this discovery assist a Party member obliged to analyze a complex development in the political situationsuch as the declaration of self-determination by Turks on the island of Cyprus, the permissibility or impermissibility of providing critical support to bourgeois nationalists, or, to provide an example from contemporary events, the signing of the Anglo-Irish deal. For such developments, do we need consciousness of theoretical abstractions before or after we complete our analysis and decide what we should do? The answer to this question was given by Engels long ago when he wrote that the art of working with concepts is not inborn and also is not given with ordinary everyday consciousness, but requires real thought, and that this thought similarly has a long empirical history. (Anti-Duhring)[ 20 ] Healy no longer wrote about political developments or the revolutionary perspective. He concentrated solely on dialectics. One article, Hegel Marx Lenin, is a good example. He completely left out Lenins political fight, his analysis of the state, of imperialism, and turned dialecticial materialism into a tool for individual cognition. Again and again he repeated his mantra that the greatest crime would be to impose abstract thoughts upon the external world: Great care has to be taken not to impose any abstract thought interpretations upon the external world. Its independent properties must be allowed to build up in the mind and not have some premature abstract thought imposed on these, as yet, concealed and unknown properties. Training and using our senses properly means to avoid imposing thought images upon the external world...[ 21 ] This was totally directed against the connection of the partys practice with the heritage of the Trotskyist movement. North answered this method in his biography of Healy: These abstract thought interpretations and thought images against which Healy inveighed were, in fact, the theoretical and political conceptions of Leon Trotsky. At lectures given by Healy, students who cited the works of Trotsky and other great Marxists and sought to relate their teachings to contemporary events were generally denounced for using empty word forms and imposing dead abstractions upon living reality. Party members who spoke of applying the dialectical method to the study of objective reality could expect to be sharply rebuked. Marxism could not be applied, Healy insisted; it could only be abstracted from nature.[ 22 ] David North describes the political line of all this sophistry very well: All attempts to analyze political events, or, still worse, to foresee their probable lines of development were angrily dismissed as idealist speculation and propagandist image-making. It was, Healy insisted, an unpardonable error to predetermine the movement of the external world. Such outbursts were intended to justify the WRPs blossoming alliances with all sorts of political scoundrels. The new friends of the WRP like Ken Livingstone, Ted Knight, Bill Sirs, Arthur Scargill and others were no longer to be exposed as the representatives of definite political tendencies who served clearly definable class interests. Instead, their political evasions and outright betrayals were to be rationalized as moments of a contradictory development or as manifestations of the conflict of the old form (opportunist treachery) with the emerging content (revolutionary movement of the working class as it reflects itself inside the trade union and Labour Party leadership). No conclusions were to be drawn as to the objective logic of their politics. Rather, they were to be seen dialectically as individuals whose concealed and unknown properties might evolve in a manner which could not be theoretically anticipated. Healys supply of cynical sophistries to excuse the opportunism of the WRP was inexhaustible![ 23 ] How this was concretely used to suppress any discussion and attack revolutionary principles is shown in the famous Slaughter quote from a letter to David North of December 1983: Your own heavy emphasis on the political independence of the working class, backed by a quotation from In Defence of Marxism, will become a weapon in the hands of all those who retain the mark of pragmatism, because it will be treasured by them as something more concrete than the explicit struggle to develop and comprehend the categories of dialectics as the method for that life-and-death matter of grasping the rapid and all-sided developments thrown up by the world crisis. We must be absolutely explicit and firm against all enemies, about where we stand on Trotskys conclusion about the struggle and the American party.[ 24 ] Compare this to Slaughters earlier writings! Now, the Marxist method is put into opposition to the political independence of the working class and is no longer the tool to actually establish the independence of the working class! The political line of this method couldnt be put more clearly. David North at the Workers League's Long Island City, NY printing facility, 1980 The Studies in Dialectical Materialsm were the culmination of Healys theoretical efforts. After David Norths devastating critique, Healy published virtually nothing more. But, of course, the Studies and their concepts continued to be the lubricating oil for the WRPs opportunism and covert factional struggles. In How the WRP Betrayed Trotskyism, the Studies are characterized as follows: In reality, Healys method was a gross distortion of scientific dialectics which betrayed a complete lack of understanding of either the philosophical work of Hegel or Marx. The actual content of Healys theory of knowledgewhich claimed to trace the dialectical transition from individual sense perception to abstract thought and practiceamounted to nothing more than a glorification of the individual process through which he translated his own pragmatic intuition into various party activities. An auto-didact in the worst sense of the word, Healy came to believe that the memorization of a few Hegelian categories in proper sequence provided a master-key to universal knowledge. A serious study of Trotskyism, political economy, the history of the workers movement and, last but not least, the historical origin and development of philosophical concepts could be replaced with a few juggled phrases.[ 25 ] Norths critique of Healys Studies The foregoing has shown how important it was to answer Healys Studies. They were a central mechanism for suppressing the political questions and justifying opportunist practice. At the same time, they represented a complete distortion and defilement of the rich theoretical heritage of the Trotskyist movement, which needed to be defended against this attack. As we have shown, already with Lenin the struggle against revisionism was linked to the struggle for dialectical and historical materialism. Likewise with Trotsky and with the early SLL. This struggle was now continued and developed by the Workers League and David North, and it had to be directed against the idealist conceptions elaborated by Healy. Norths critique was not simply about Healy, but about defending Marxism against all the conceptions of the Frankfurt School, existentialism and postmodernism that dominated the universities and which Healy unconsciously used. As David North noted: While the mystical presentation often rendered Healys lectures unintelligible, it would be wrong to assert that his lectures were simply nonsensical. Rather, Healys theoretical conceptions were an eclectic mixture of various trends in bourgeois subjective-idealist philosophy of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. As Healy departed from Marxism and its study of the development of social consciousness as a historical process, his fixation with an individuals cognitive activity came to resemble different trends in contemporary bourgeois phenomenology. This resemblance was that of a caricature: in the course of his lectures unintegrated elements of the conceptions of bourgeois thinkers as varied as William James, Edmund Husserl, Alexius Mienong, and even Maurice Merleau-Ponty would unexpectedly announce themselves. Healy was, it goes without saying, entirely unaware of this. Those who are in the process of descending into revisionism are rarely conscious of the bourgeois intellectual trends which are the agents of their theoretical degeneration.[ 26 ] Norths critique was based on a deep understanding of Marxism developed in the Workers League through the assimilation of the central struggles of our movement. It was based on a thorough working through of most of the texts we have discussed so far, especially Trotskys In Defense of Marxism and Slaughters articles on Lenins Philosophical Notebooks (Volume 38 of his Collected Works). At the same time, the detailed critique of Healys Studies formed the basis for a tremendous development of the theoretical work of the ICFI. At the heart of Norths critique is Healys attempt to justify his idealitstic conceptions by drawing on Hegel and ignoring Marxs development of materialist dialectics. David North writes: 10. Cde. Healys Studies in Dialectical Materialism suffer from one decisive defect: they essentially ignore the achievements of both Marx and Lenin in the materialist reworking of the Hegelian dialectic. Thus, Hegel is approached uncritically, essentially in the manner of the Left Hegelians against whom Marx struggled. 11. In approaching Hegel in this manner, the distinction between materialism and idealism is not only effaced; Comrade Healy explicitly passes over to idealism in expounding Hegel as a Left Hegelian.[ 27 ] North has undertaken an intensive analysis of the Studies which demonstrates this point of view in detail by means of dozens of passages. Some examples are: Hegel is put on the same historical line as Marx, Engels and Leninas a founder of Marxism in whose spirit revolutionary cadres are trained. The principle of objectivity is proclaimed to be the basic difference between materialism and abstract idealism, rather than the primacy of matter over thought. The thinking body is substituted for social man. The theoretical Notion is presented as the external world itself. In all these examples, the core issue is that Healy detaches cognition from the social, historically developing practice of human beings and thus adopts an idealist position. But this was precisely the great achievement of Marx and Engels and is the whole basis of Marxism. Hegels philosophy was unquestionably an enormous advance. Compared to Kant, he understood that man can cognize the objective world and that this cognition takes place in a continuous development from the lower to the higher. He provided a monumental historical analysis of this development and set forth the very dialectical laws through which it takes place. But Hegel remained an idealist. For him the objective world and historical development were only the manifestations of the world spirit, which is then again realized by the knowledge of men. The only practice he knew was the practice of cognition. Therefore, the connections he drew were those of abstract logic. As North writes: 18. In Marxs Critique of Hegels Philosophy of Law, he explained the fundamental weakness of his idealist dialectics: in every area of concrete study to which Hegel turns his attention, we always have before us the Logic. Thus, the movement always proceeded from thought and therefore the connections are those of the abstract logic. As he explained in relation to Hegels treatment of the State: The transition is thus derived, not from the particular nature of the family, etc., and from the particular nature of the state, but from the general relationship of necessity and freedom. It is exactly the same transition as is effected in logic from the sphere of essence to the sphere of the concept. The same transition is made in the philosophy of nature from inorganic nature to life. It is always the same categories which provide the soul, now for this, now for that sphere. It is only a matter of spotting for the separate concrete attributes the corresponding abstract attributes. (Marx-Engels, Vol. 3, p. 10, emphasis added)[ 28 ] Marx and Engels overcame this mysticism and peeled the rational core out of Hegels logic. The objective world was not a manifestation of the world spirit, but the spirit, or social consciousness, was the product of mans social practice, which itself moved from the lower to the higher. The laws of this movement could not be deduced from abstract logic, but only from the historical analysis of these objective processes themselves. With the development of dialectical materialism, Marx and Engels did not simply change Hegels idealistic sign into a materialistic one, but carried on an intensive scientific work which is most closely connected with the development of historical materialism, the social theory of Marxism. Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels Healy systematically downplayed this enormous work because, in returning to Hegel, he threw overboard the very historical development of the class struggle and the legacy of the Trotskyist movement. How deliberately Healy turned away from the materialistic understanding of the world is shown in his treatment of one of the best summaries of the Marxist method written by Lenin. Lenin writes in Materialism and Empiriocriticism: The most important thing is that ... the objective logic of these changes and of their historical development has in its chief and basic features been disclosedobjective, not in the sense that a society of conscious beings, of people, could exist and develop independently of the existence of conscious beings (and it is only such trifles that Bogdanov stresses by his theory), but in the sense that social being is independent of the social consciousness of people. The fact that you live and conduct your business, beget children, produce products and exchange them, gives rise to an objectively necessary chain of events, a chain of development, which is independent of your social consciousness, and is never grasped by the latter completely. The highest task of humanity is to comprehend this objective logic of economic evolution (the evolution of social life) in its general and fundamental features, so that it may be possible to adapt to it ones social consciousness and the consciousness of the advanced classes of all capitalist countries in as definite, clear and critical a fashion as possible.[ 29 ] This is an excellent summary of Marxist method and the tasks of the party. Healy, however, erases from this section what is essential. Rather than the objective logic of economic evolution, we havethe objective logic. This objective logic is defined by Healy as its relations as a stage of knowledge in relation to other categories. North comments on this: It is clear from these passages and the selective quotation that Cde. Healy views the logical categories and their inter-relations as the essential content into which historical movement is distilled. Once the logical thought content of each material event or fact has been discovered, we can then reveal their essence as a stage of knowledge in relation to other categories such as necessity, probability, possibility. Here we have the entire logical mysticism of Hegel uncritically reproduced, and this, in fact, is the essence of Cde. Healys entire approach to dialectics in these most recent articles. Everything becomes a matter of following the sequence of the categories of Hegels Logic. The material content is to be developed out of the Logic, rather than, as Marx insisted, the logic out of the content.[ 30 ] On the basis of this concrete analysis of all the idealistic conceptions Healy is developing in his Studies, North presents a very clear understanding of Healys main theoretical conceptions, which are repeating the greatest errors of the Young Hegelians: 19. It is this very idealist procedure which Cde. Healy employs in effecting the transition from sensation to consciousness. Being, Not Being, Becoming, Cause, Effect, and inner movement of negation in general are employed to explain the transition from sensation to conscious thought (as well as the movement of the value form). After Absolute essence (Negative Semblance) confronts our theory of knowledge which becomes Positive Semblance as they face each other in antithesis, Cde. Healy declares: we have ended the sensuous stage of the Cognitive process. All this has been accomplished simply through reference to categories of the Hegelian Logic; in other words, we have a mystical process presented as the real process.[ 31 ] Thus Healy not only turns against Marx, but also falls behind Hegel. For one of Hegels great achievements was precisely to emphasize the connection between historical development and knowledge. Only he did it in a twisted way, by understanding the historical process as an expression of the idea, and thus mystifying it in an idealistic way. But Healys recourse to Hegel just eliminates everything that was progressive about Hegel and actually goes directly to subjective idealism. In The Heritage We Defend North sums up Healys position very well: According to Healy, logical categories are the distilled essence of all material phenomena, including historical processes. Therefore, in the analysis of contemporary events, a great deal of time can be saved if, rather than tediously examining the historical processes and social forces out of which they developed, one simply dismisses these events as a secondary manifestation of the essential categories. In other words, rather than examine the specific import of a particular concrete development of the class struggle, one simply pronounces it to be the manifestation of movement of quantity into quality, or one asserts, with a knowing air, that it is the mere appearance of an essence, or the outer form of a more fundamental content.[ 32 ] Healys rejection of historical materialism, which comes out of this approach, is quite explicit. He writes: Historical Materialism is a method for the building of the Revolutionary Party, based upon the Cognition of its object, which is society consisting of conscious human beings with the will to go on changing the world independently of each other as individuals.[ 33 ] North shows how in this one sentence all historical materialism is thrown overboard. He answers: The philosophical foundation of historical materialism is that social being exists independently of social consciousness. The reference to conscious human beings muddles everything, and is directly opposed to the very conceptions advanced by Lenin in Volume 14, which Cde. Healy praises but does not understand. Lenin wrote: In all social formations of any complexityand in the capitalist social formation in particularpeople in their intercourse are not conscious of what kinds of social relations are being formed, in accordance with what law, they develop. (Vol. 14, p. 323) The reference to will is also a complete departure from historical materialism; history cannot be explained from either the will or intentions of men. The historical will of social men can only be understood as arising out of definite material conditions. As for changing the world independently of each other as individuals, it would appear that Cde. G. has just abolished social man. Instead of history developing through the collective social practice of man independent of consciousness, we have a history arising out of willful and conscious human beings who change the world independently of each other as individuals![ 34 ] This sums up Healys perspective. He attacks historical materialism and dissolves dialectics into pure logic in order to detach the practice of the WRP from the legacy of the Trotskyist movement and to justify his daily opportunism. David North, in Leon Trotsky and the Development of Marxism, counters this with the actual relationship between dialectical and historical materialism: This method is the opposite of Marxism, which studies the historical evolution of all categories and concepts, not as products of the brain nor as emanations of an absolute spirit, but as the reflections in the minds of social men of objective properties and relations existing within nature and society. These reflections arise not in the course of passive contemplation, but, as Marx proved, as a result of objective social practice, in the historically-determined interaction of man and nature. By placing social practice at the center of its theory of knowledge, having extracted the rational core of the Hegelian dialectic from its idealist form, Marx was able, for the first time in the history of philosophy, to establish scientifically the relation between matter and thought, object and subject, and practice and theory. Man cognizes the world in the social process of changing it. The forms of his thinking are produced and conditioned by the growth of the productive forces and the social relations which arise therefrom. Mans cognition of the laws of nature and society, understood scientifically, as an historically developing social process, cannot be reduced to the one-sided (from object to subject), passive, and mirror-like reflection of nature in human thought. Cognition and practice constitute a unity of opposites, each influencing and shaping the other, in accordance with the dialectical laws governing the social process of production, which gives rise to the whole vast superstructure of ideology and politics.[ 35 ] This basic understanding of Marxism is opposed to both subjective idealism and mechanical materialism, which did not take into account social practice in the knowledge of the world. Or as North put it, it shows the essential relation between cognition and revolutionary practice, without which scientific knowledge of the objective world of the class struggle is impossible. And this revolutionary practice is the history of the Trotskyist movement, which is why it is impossible to separate the fight for dialectical materialism from the fight for the assimilation of the whole history of the Trotskyist movement. Gerry Healy Therefore, Healys efforts to replace Marxism with pseudo-Hegelian phrases to justify his opportunist practice were absolutely incompatible with a study of Trotskys writings. By 1978 at the latest, they had completely disappeared from the curricula of the College of Marxist Education. In his Studies, Healy already quite deliberately devalued the role of Trotsky. He wrote: When it came to the dialectical materialist method and reading Hegel materialistically, Trotsky was a staunch Leninist. He walked in the footsteps not only of Lenin but of Marx and Engels as well.[ 36 ] This is, as North points out, a distortion of the relationship between Trotsky and Lenin that diminishes Trotsky. Trotsky was a dialectical materialist before he became a member of the Bolshevik Party. He didnt walk in the footsteps of Lenin, but made his own independent contribution to the development of Marxism, above all, the theory of Permanent Revolution. North answers this diminishing of Trotsky in Leon Trotsky and the Development of Marxism: The speeches and articles prepared by Leon Trotsky during the first four Comintern congresses are masterpieces of the political literature of Marxism. As examples of the historical materialist method in action, they rank with Marxs own historical address of May 1871 on the Civil War in France. Such works are evergreen. But it must be emphasized that Trotsky is of our epoch; and his writings remain irreplaceable and indispensable, not only as the theoretical and political foundation of a Marxist strategy for the World Socialist Revolution; but even for an intelligent understanding of the daily events of modern political life.[ 37 ] North ends his critique with its political significance and points out how the idealist conceptions were being used to justify the more and more opportunist practice of the WRP. He makes clear that the Studies brought into the open a crisis that had been developing for years within the IC and marked a turn away from the struggle for Marxism. North then pointed to the different opportunist maneuvers of the WRP in the Middle East and other regions, which we will discuss in detail in the upcoming lectures. I would like to conclude the presentation of the critique of Healys Studies by referring once again to Leon Trotsky and the Development of Marxism, because in it North presents the perspective that positively results from the critique with unique clarity: The history of Trotskyism cannot be comprehended as a series of disconnected episodes. Its theoretical development has been abstracted by its cadre from the continuous unfolding of the world capitalist crisis and the struggles of the international proletariat. Its unbroken continuity of political analyses of all the fundamental experiences of the class struggle, over an entire historical epoch, constitutes the enormous richness of Trotskyism as the sole development of Marxism after the death of Lenin in 1924. A leadership which does not strive collectively to assimilate the whole of this history cannot adequately fulfill its revolutionary responsibilities to the working class. Without a real knowledge of the historical development of the Trotskyist movement, references to dialectical materialism are not merely hollow; such empty references pave the way for a real distortion of the dialectical method. The source of theory lies not in thought but in the objective world. Thus the development of Trotskyism proceeds from the fresh experiences of the class struggle, which are posited on the entire historically-derived knowledge of our movement. Thus cognition rolls forward from content to content it raises to each next stage of determination the whole mass of its antecedent content, and by its dialectical progress not only loses nothing and leaves nothing behind, but carries with it all that it has acquired, enriching and concentrating itself upon itself Quoting this passage from Hegels Science of Logic, Lenin, in his Philosophical Notebooks, wrote: This extract is not at all bad as a kind of summing up of dialectics. (Collected Works, Vol. 38, p.230) Nor is this extract bad as a kind of summing up of the constant dialectical development of Trotskyist theory.[ 38 ] This is a powerful outline of the basic concept of dialectical materialism as it was developed in the Workers League against Healys falsification of Marxism. It is also very much the basis of our school. The significance of the struggle against the idealist distortion of Marxism This basic conception of Marxist method, developed in the Workers League and supported by the rich heritage of the Trotskyist movement, laid the foundation for a tremendous development of the International Committee in the years since the split. As David North notes in Plekhanov and the Tragedy of the Second International: The dialectical materialist theory of knowledge holds that the concepts through which man cognizes the objective world are, themselves, subject to change, in accordance with the underlying movement of objective reality. Thus, the categories and concepts of historical materialism must not be treated as finished formulae, but must be critically adapted to, and enriched by, the changing content of human society and the development of natural science as it discovers new properties of matter.... During the past eighteen years, the International Committee has produced an extraordinary range of political and theoretical work. We have subjected to analysis the most difficult political issuesamong them, the breakup of the Soviet Union, the decay of the trade unions, and the contemporary significance of bourgeois nationalism. In each case we have not simply reasserted orthodox positions, but creatively developed and adapted the Marxist program to the new historical conditions. Moreover, each day the theoretical vitality, programmatic clarity, and political astuteness of the International Committee is attested to by the publication of the World Socialist Web Site.[ 39 ] We have discussed these developments at length in the 2019 Summer School; they are themselves an expression of the enormous theoretical strength of the Inernational Committee. And one could add many more questions: our defense of historical truth against the post-Soviet falsification of history, the attacks on the American revolutions, and the rehabilitation of Hitler in Germany. We could only understand the significance of these questions and answer them in this sharp way because we understand the importance of an understanding of history to the emancipation of the working class. David North sums this up in Postmodernisms Twentieth Century: Political Demoralization and the Flight from Historical Truth: The burden of decades of historical falsification could not be overcome in time for the Soviet working class to orient itself politically, uphold its independent social interests, and oppose the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the restoration of capitalism. There is a lesson in this historical tragedy. Without a thorough knowledge of the historical experiences through which it has passed, the working class cannot defend even its most elementary social interests, let alone conduct a politically conscious struggle against the capitalist system.[ 40 ] The International Committee has therefore also constantly defended and developed the methodological bases themselves. Just a few examples: The discussion of objectivism, empiricism and the role of the subjective factor in Reform and Revolution in the Epoch of Imperialism. The elaboration of the dialectical understanding of social form and content in Why are Trade Unions Hostile to Socialism? The discussion of the unity of opposites of the class and the party in The Origins of Bolshevism and What Is To Be Done? The problem of abstract identity in The Myth of Ordinary Germans: A Review of Daniel Goldhagens Hitlers Willing Executioners Norths polemic against Alex Steiner and Frank Brenner is undoubtedly particularly important. North, in his engagement with Steiner and Brenner, developed further the very conception we discussed during the last hour. The book is a Marxist attack on all the various schools of subjective idealism such as postmodernism, the Frankfurt School, and existentialism. It is a powerful defense of materialism. As David North writes: The real issue is that you do not agree with the International Committees insistence that the fight for socialism requires the development, within the working class, of both a profound knowledge of historyparticularly that of the socialist movement itselfand the most precise and concrete understanding possible (by means of ever more exact conceptual approximations) of the objective movement of the world capitalist system in all its complex, contradictory and interconnected forms. What you refer to falsely as objectivism, is the Marxist striving to accurately reflect in subjective thought the law-governed movement of the objective world, of which social man is a part, and to make this knowledge and understanding the basis of revolutionary practice. For all your talk about dialectics and the fight against pragmatism, everything you write demonstrates indifference to the requirements of developing a working class movement whose practice is informed by Marxist theory.[ 41 ] It is remarkable how in Steiner and Brenner the conceptions of Healy, their theoretical mentor, merge with all the anti-Marxist theories floating around in the universities. This itself underlines once again the importance of the struggle against Healys conceptions and shows how important it was to continue this struggle. Their rejection of the Enlightenment and therefore of reason, their insistence on utopia and a breaking up of the family, etc., are all animated by the same spirit: to detach Marxism from science, from the close study of the class struggle and its history, and to transform it into a beautiful idea that fits the life of petty-bourgeois existence. Marxism is not supposed to solve the crisis of revolutionary leadership, but the sexual problems of Frank Brenner. That this is not about individuals but about fundamental tendencies of bourgeois ideology was also made clear by David North in his essay It Was All Engels Fault: A Review of Tom Rockmores Marx After Marxism. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, dozens, if not hundreds, of professors and academics rediscovered Hegel, turned him against Marx, and developed political theories based on himan endeavor that North correctly diagnosed as a major step backward, theoretically and intellectually, which can only serve reactionary political ends. With regard to Rockmore, North proved beyond doubt that his interpretation of Marx as an idealist, who had been materialistically twisted by Engels, had no scientific substance at all and served clear political ends: What Rockmore advocatesa Marx without historical materialism, without Engels, without Marxismproves, in the end, to be a Marx without socialist revolution, a Marx that is not simply stood on his head, but also handcuffed and gagged.[ 42 ] The International Committee, on the contrary, has developed Marxism as the science of socialist revolution. In the Fifth Phase of the development of the Trotskyist movement, in which a new revolutionary upsurge of the international working class is intersecting with the political activity of the International Committee, this theoretical foundation becomes absolutely crucial. It requires the conscious struggle to preserve the lines of historical continuity between the present struggles of the working class and the revolutionary party as a unity of opposites and the whole content of the objective historical experiences of the class and the development of Bolshevism. This is the essence of the discussion on dialectics and this is the essence of this school, which must be just the starting point of an intensive study of this rich history. At least 28,000 Armenians have fled the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region since September 20, when Azeri forces attacked Armenian forces and Russian peacekeepers in the enclave and forced Armenian troops to surrender. A considerable portion of Nagorno-Karabakhs 120,000 population has been turned into refugees. Coming amid NATOs war with Russia in Ukraine, the fratricidal war between the two former Soviet republics of Armenia and Azerbaijan is yet another disastrous consequence of the nationalist Stalinist bureaucracys dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. A first Azeri-Armenian war over Nagorno-Karabakh began in 1988 and lasted until 1994, resulting in an Armenian conquest of the region. Amid the NATO-Russia war in nearby Ukraine, this war is re-erupting again. Already in 2020, Azeri forces armed with drones and backed by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan dealt a defeat to Armenian forces who controlled the Nagorno-Karabakh. Since June, Azeri President Ilham Aliyev blockaded Nagorno-Karabakh, closing off its land transport routes and cutting off its access to food and medicine imports. Last week, Azeri forces rapidly struck Armenian forces and, after one day of fighting, compelled a rapid surrender. Tens of thousands of Armenian civilians are fleeing Nagorno-Karabakh, amid unconfirmed reports that Azeri troops are bombarding villages and control part of the capital, Stepanakert (Khankendi in Azeri). On Monday, in a further tragedy, a fuel depot in Stepanakert exploded, surrounded by civilian cars trying to get fuel to flee to Armenia. At least 68 people were killed and 290 injured in the blast, many of them with serious burns, which cannot be treated in the blockaded enclave. Azeri officials have denied that they are attacking civilian areas, but civilians fleeing to Armenia told international media they faced horrific conditions. Petya Grigoryan, a 69-year-old driver who has fled to Armenia, told Reuters that Azeri forces bombarded his village, Kochogot, and that there were truckloads lying dead in the street. There was nowhere to bury them, Grigoryan said. We took what we could and left. We dont know where were going. We have nowhere to go. Nairy, a builder, fled the village of Shosh with his family after it was shelled by Azeri troops. The kids were injured. We sat in the basements until the peacekeepers came in and took the people out, he told Reuters. He and his family fled to the Stepanakert airport, where thousands were sleeping outside. We are extremely grateful to the lads for sharing their rations with the kids, he said. The Russian peacekeepers went hungry to give the kids their rations. Narine Shakaryan said she and her family had fled in her son-in-laws car, taking 24 hours to make the a 77-kilometer (48-mile) drive to Armenia, without food. The whole way, the children were crying, they were hungry, she said. We left so we would stay alive. Azeri troops also fired on Russian forces who were stationed in Nagorno-Karabakh as peacekeepers after the 2020 war. According to Russian military sources, five men, including Captain First Rank Ivan Kovgan of the Russian North Fleet, were killed. Azeri officials have stated that this was a mistake, and have pledged a joint investigation of the killings with Russian prosecutors. The disaster unfolding in Nagorno-Karabakh is inseparable from the broader plunge of the former Soviet Union into fratricidal war like the current war between Russia and Ukraine. It is the poisoned product of both the nationalism of the Soviet bureaucracy and its false, Stalinist theory of building socialism in one country, and the imperialist powers decades-long waging of wars in the Middle East and Central Asia in the post-Soviet era. The major capitalist governments are focused not on preventing massacres or keeping civilians from being expelled from their homes, but on using the crisis to improve their strategic position in the war. This begins first of all with US imperialism, which aims to detach Armenia, under pro-NATO President Nikol Pashinyan, from its traditionally close ties to Russia and Iran. Pashinyan has responded to the Armenian military debacle by denouncing Russia. As a result of the events in Ukraine, the capabilities of Russia have changed, he said, adding, All of this was supposed to be in the sphere of responsibility of Russian peacekeepers and as far as these issues exist, the Russian peacekeepers have failed in their mission. On Tuesday, Pashinyan greeted US Agency for International Development (USAID) chief Samantha Power in the Armenian capital, Yerevan, where she issued an appeal to the conscience of Azeri President Ilham Aliyev. She called on Aliyev to maintain the ceasefire and take concrete steps to protect the rights of civilians in Nagorno-Karabakh. She also proposed an international monitoring mission to the region. Powers cynical rhetoric is not aimed at helping civilians or swaying Aliyev, whose regime aims to conquer Nagorno-Karabakh and boasts that Aliyev is building an iron fist to control it. Rather, Power aims to establish a broader NATO influence on Russias borders, near key war theaters in Ukraine. Indeed, the Caucasus is not only rich in valuable natural resources, but also strategically located near the areas of Russia bordering Crimea and Ukraine. A NATO strategic and military presence in the Caucasus would strengthen NATO in preparation for launching a war directly with Russia. On Monday, Erdogan traveled to meet Aliyev in Nakhchivan, an autonomous land-locked enclave of Azerbaijan bordering Turkey, Armenia and Iran. Erdogan hailed the victory of Azeri troops in Nagorno-Karabakh, in what Aliyev claimed was an anti-terrorist operation. Erdogan cynically declared: Its a matter of pride that the operation was successfully completed in a short period of time, with utmost sensitivity to the rights of civilians. Erdogan and Aliyev also signed a deal for a joint gas pipeline to bring Azeri gas to Turkey through the areas contested by Armenia and Azerbaijan. In the weeks preceding Azerbaijans latest offensive, the Turkish and Azeri governments had raised the opening of the Zanzegur corridor. This is a plan, opposed by Armenia, to connect Azerbaijan to Nakhchivan and Turkey by taking control of a road passing through Armenian territory. Erdogan said, We will do our best to open this corridor as soon as possible. The realization of this corridor, which is very important for Turkey and Azerbaijan, is a strategic issue and must be completed. Also on Monday, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller echoed Pashinyans remarks, stating that the war shows Russia is too weak to defend Armenia. I do think that Russia has shown that it is not a security partner that can be relied on, Miller said, calling for an international mission to the Caucasus. Russian Ambassador to the US Anatoly Antonov replied by accusing Miller of aiming to inflict strategic damage on Russia and push us out of the region. The influential Center for Strategic and International Studies think-tank in Washington D.C. declares that the Armenian-Azeri conflict gives NATO the chance to replace Russia as the strongest military power in the Caucasus. It writes: Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has weakened its ability to effectively control and interfere in the decades-long conflict This has created opportunities for other external actorsincluding Turkey, Israel, and Iranto promote their own interests and agendas in the region. The renewed Azerbaijani offensive against Karabakh Armenians reflects these changing power dynamics, providing Western policymakers with an opportunity to step up as potential guarantors of longer-term peace and stability in the Caucasusa title famously claimed by Russia. Halting the war spiral requires unifying the working class in the ex-Soviet Union and internationally in a Trotskyist struggle for socialist revolution against imperialism and Stalinism. NATOs escalating war on Russia precludes any peaceful resolution of the bloody ethnic conflicts that emerged from the dissolution of the Soviet Union. This requires building an international, socialist movement in the working class against imperialisn, war and the corrupt capitalist regimes that emerged from the Stalinist restoration of capitalism in the Soviet Union. At a lunchtime press conference on Tuesday, Daniel Andrews announced that he was resigning as premier of Victoria, Australias second-most populous state. There had been speculation for months that Andrews may have been preparing to quit, but his exit was nevertheless abrupt. He gave little over 24 hours notice, declaring that he would vacate the premiers office and parliament by 5 p.m. Wednesday. Victorian Labor Premier Dan Andrews announces resignation in Melbourne. [Photo: ABC TV screen grab] Andrews resigned under conditions where Labor had won a substantial victory in the November 2022 state election, providing him with a third four-year term as premier. The Liberal Party opposition, heavily associated with an extreme right-wing anti-lockdown and anti-vaccine fringe, has been decimated. Labor now holds government at the federal level and in all states and territories bar Tasmania. Despite the favourable parliamentary arithmetic, however, there are growing signs that the Labor administrations confront a deepening crisis, together with the entire political establishment. There were parallels between Andrews departure and the sudden resignation of Western Australian Labor Premier Mark McGowan in June. He too had years left in office, and confronted a Liberal opposition that had been reduced to a rump. There is also persistent speculation that Annastacia Palaszczuks days as Queensland Labor premier are numbered. The Australian resignations recall New Zealand Labour Prime Minister Jacinda Arderns equally sudden decision to quit in January. That move occurred after Ardern had overturned New Zealands successful zero-COVID policy, allowing the virus to rip and had begun implementing significant austerity measures, amid the worst cost-of-living crisis in decades. The media hype, presenting her as a saintly figure, who would advance a humane agenda within the bounds of capitalist politics, had largely warn off. A similar process is underway in Australia. While Andrews, like McGowan before him, suddenly discovered the need to spend more time with his family, the resignation is clearly politically motivated. It occurs amid a shift from the period of business oriented stimulus measures during the initial years of the pandemic, to harsh budget cuts. The crisis of the Liberal Party means that carrying through this unpopular agenda falls almost entirely upon Labor and its affiliated trade union apparatus. McGowan and Andrews, both experienced political figures, undoubtedly recognised that Labor is going to confront major struggles by the working class. At the federal level, there are growing warnings in the business press that the honeymoon period of Anthony Albaneses Labor government is over. Polling indicates Labors federal primary vote is back near the 33 percent it received in the May 2022 federal election, its lowest result since the early 1930s. The October 14 referendum to enshrine an indigenous advisory body into the Constitution is in a shambles. The measure had been intended to put a progressive gloss on a government committed to escalating Australian involvement in the US plans for war with China and implementing associated budget austerity. All polling, however, indicates that the Voice policy, a reactionary promotion of racialism and the Constitution, is headed for defeat. The polling also indicates that the primary issue of concern for the vast mass of the population is the cost-of-living crisis, which is being inflicted on working people above all by the Labor administrations. This broader context has largely been ignored in the media coverage of Andrews resignation. It has been dominated by claims from Labor-aligned sources that Andrews was a major, even historic political figure, and angry denunciations from the right-wing press of Dictator Dan and his left-wing government, recapitulating their hostility to the COVID mitigation measures enacted by his administration in an earlier period. Both presentations are completely false. Andrews, like the other state and federal Labor leaders, was a run-of-the-mill careerist politician whose record and persona underscored the fact that Labor no longer has any, even tenuous connection with the working class. Andrews has been in Labor politics literally his entire working life, having entered its apparatus immediately after graduating from university. He became premier in December 2014 and seamlessly continued the pro-business policies of the preceding Liberal Party government. Andrews effectively privatised much of the public housing that remained and sold off the Port of Melbourne, VicRoads and the Land Titles Office. The Andrews government maintained extensive ties with the property developers that play a central role in state politics across the country. Andrews himself was closely associated with trucking magnate Lindsay Fox, one of the wealthiest individuals in Victoria. The Andrews government, like all others across the country, collaborated closely with businesses and the trade unions, to suppress wage growth, eliminate jobs and enforce the ever-greater casualisation of the workforce. The unfolding of the pandemic in Victoria can only be understood in the context of Andrews pro-business record. His government, had along with previous administrations, maintained and deepened the cuts to public healthcare spearheaded by the Liberal Kennett government in the 1990s, which had closed seventeen public hospitals. As a consequence, Victoria entered the COVID crisis with 2.3 public hospital beds available for every 1000 people, significantly less than the national average. A later report by the state Productivity Commission found that Victorias public hospitals received $2687 per person in recurrent funding in 201920, compared with a national average of $2971 per person. This was part of a broader gutting of public health. In March 2020, the Victorian public health department responsible for tracking communicable diseases had just 14 staff members, only six of whom were fully qualified physicians, in a state with 6.7 million people. The development of the pandemic threatened the collapse of the healthcare system across the country, but the danger was particularly acute in Victoria. That state, a centre of the working class, also saw significant anger among teachers, healthcare workers and others over the prospect of policies that would allow the virus to spread. The Andrews administration thus, in line with governments across the country, adopted a mitigation program. In Victoria, the scene of the worst outbreaks nationally in the first two years of the pandemic, this entailed extended lockdowns and other sharp restrictions. The lockdowns included various pro-business exemptons. They also involved punitive attacks on sections of workers and the poor, such as the police lockdown of two inner-city public housing towers in July 2020. The lockdowns, however, succeeded in quashing outbreaks. Despite the fact that the Andrews government and all other Australian administrations rejected a scientifically grounded zero-COVID program, the measures did repeatedly eliminate the virus, demonstrating in practice an alternative to the homicidal let it rip policies. The Murdoch media and the right-wing press denounced the measures hysterically, helping to cultivate a fascistic anti-lockdown movement. The irony of the various monickers of Dictator Dan and his autocratic government, is that the lockdowns were overwhelmingly popular and were one of the only official policies of recent decades implemented as a result of pressure from below. As in the 2021 Western Australian election, the overwhelming reelection of Labor last year was bound up with a sense that it had helped to protect the health and lives of the population. The other irony is that the media is silent on Andrews real crime: dispensing with the successful COVID measures and facilitating mass infection. In the latter stages of 2021, he partnered with then Coalition Prime Minister Scott Morrison and NSW Liberal-National Premier Dominic Perrottet to spearhead the lifting of all safety measures nationally. Andrews credentials as a figure identified with the defence of public health were decisive. Morrison was widely despised, Perrottet was a far-right figure who had opposed all safety measures. Daniel Andrews and Dominic Perrottet [Photo: @DanielAndrewsMP, CEBIT Australia] The reopening and ensuing COVID tsunami created a disaster. Whereas fewer than 2,300 people died of COVID across the country in the first two years of the pandemic, as many as 25,000 perished last year when excess deaths are factored in. More generally, there is now a new normal of continuing mass infection, illness and death. The healthcare system in Victoria is in no better state now than it was in 2019. Hospitals are repeatedly sounding alarms signalling that capacity is exceeding demand. In late 2021, a study found that Victoria and most other states actually had fewer staffed intensive care beds than when the pandemic began. Andrews had turned to the policy of post-pandemic restraint and austerity, including through a brutal enterprise agreement imposed on the states teachers with the assistance of the Australian Education Union last year. It entrenched intolerable conditions, and limited wage growth to less than 2 percent a year, one of the most punitive wage caps in the country. His May budget axed up to 4,000 public servants positions. One of Andrews last acts as a premier was to implement a new housing policy. It centres on the demolition of inner-city public housing towers, which will be replaced with a mix of social housing and private dwellings, in another boon to the property developers. But with the states gross debt above $200 billion, much more is being demanded. Under those conditions, Andrews, like McGowan and Ardern, has decided to move on. Amid warnings that his resignation could trigger a massive conflict within the government, the factional leaders stitched up a deal to install Jacinta Allan as premier unopposed. The speed is an indicator of fears over Labors developing crisis, and a signal to big business that the new administration is going to proceed rapidly with the austerity demands. Sen. Bob Menendez leaves federal court, Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, in New York. [AP Photo/Seth Wenig] Democratic Senator Robert Menendez pleaded not guilty Wednesday morning, along with his wife Nadine Menendez, on charges of bribery conspiracy linked to the military dictatorship in Egypt. Meanwhile, calls mounted within his own party for Menendez, chairman of the powerful Senate Foreign Relations Committee, to resign from the Senate. On Tuesday, the co-defendants of the Menendezes, three New Jersey businessmen with ties to the Egyptian regime, pleaded not guilty on the same charges. One of the three, Wael Hana, 40, was taken into custody at JFK Airport in New York City, where he was returning from Egypt, voluntarily, according to his lawyer. Hana was then arraigned on the felony charges of conspiracy to commit bribery and conspiracy to commit honest services fraud. He was released on $5 million personal bond. He surrendered his travel documents and submitted to GPS location monitoring and an 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. home curfew. All of Hanas shares in his company were also posted as collateral. His attorney said he would continue to operate the business, which holds a monopoly from the Egyptian government in certifying halal meat for import into that country. Hana hired Nadine Menendez for what the indictment called a low or no-show job, as a payoff to the senator for his aid in obtaining US military assistance and financing for the Egyptian government. The other two businessmen, Jose Uribe, 56, of Clifton, New Jersey, and 66-year-old Fred Daibes, face the same charges as Hana. If convicted as charged, the three could face a maximum sentence of five years in prison for the bribery count, and 20 years in prison for the fraud count. Both men are convicted fraudsters. Uribe lost his license to sell insurance in 2011 after he was convicted of stealing premiums paid to him by customers and not forwarding the money to the insurance companies. He later paid Nadine Menendez $15,000 in return for her assistance in getting the senator to intervene with the state attorney general in the prosecution of one of Uribes associates. She used the money to make a down payment on a new Mercedes convertible. Daibes was a wealthy property developer in Bergen County, New Jersey, building much of the upscale community of Edgewater, where Wael Hanna lived. He pleaded guilty last year to engineering a self-dealing loan of $1.8 million from Mariners Bank, of which he was the principal owner. Remarkably, he was sentenced only to probation, although the penalty could have gone as high as 30 years. Thirteen other charges were dropped in return for the guilty plea. Gold bars seized in a search of the Menendez residence last year. [Photo: US Department of Justice] There is little doubt that his political connections with Menendez played a role here. Significantly, when federal agents raided Daibes home last year, they discovered what they called the fruits of a corrupt bribery agreement, including gold bars worth $100,000. The indictment handed down last week alleges that similar gold bars were found in the home of Robert and Nadine Menendez, along with $480,000 in cash. But it is Hannas connection with Menendez that has triggered the most ferocious reaction within the US national-security apparatus, since he allegedly put Menendez in contact with the Egyptian intelligence services, and Menendez passed on sensitive information to the Egyptian government about American policies towards Egypt and American personnel sent to staff the embassy in Cairo. After a weekend in which only one Senate Democrat, John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, responded to the initial indictment by calling on Menendez to resign, Tuesday saw more than half of the Democratic caucus do so, including the Senate majority whip, Richard Durbin, the second-ranking leader of the party. Much of the pressure for Menendez to resign was applied by Democrats whose seats are considered vulnerable in the 2024 election. They reportedly pushed behind the scenes but waited to speak publicly until after Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey issued a statement calling on the other New Jersey senator to step down. Booker did so with characteristic pomposity, saying that whether Menendez was innocent or guilty would be decided by a jury. He continued, There is, however, another higher standard for public officials, one not of criminal law but of common ideals. As senators, we operate in the public trust. That trust is essential to our ability to do our work and perform our duties for our constituents. To describe this assembly of millionaires, representatives of big business and war criminals in such terms is par for the course for American bourgeois politics, but it bears no relation to reality. What has been revealed in the Menendez case is the sordid reality of the Democratic Party and of the entire capitalist two-party system, in which paid representatives of the financial oligarchy do what is required to defend the interests of American imperialism, no matter how reactionary the policies or how bloody the crimes. At his weekly press conference Wednesday, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized Menendezs alleged conduct, claiming, I was just deeply disappointed, disturbed, when I read the indictment. He said he would wait until Thursdays Democratic caucus, when all 51 senators meet at the Capitol, before making a decision on whether to call for Menendez to step down. Menendez is expected to address the caucus at that time. The former commanders of the three branches of the Brazilian Armed Forces and the fascistic ex-president Jair Bolsonaro discussed a draft decree at the beginning of last November that would have resulted in a military intervention and the calling of new elections. The meeting occurred shortly after Bolsonaros loss of the October 31 election victory to Workers Party (PT) candidate and current president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro and commanders of the Armed Forces, Admiral Almir Garnier Santos, Army General Paulo Sergio Nogueira and Air Brigadier Lieutenant Carlos de Almeida Baptista Junior. [Photo: Marcos Correa/PR] The meeting was first reported last Thursday following a plea bargain by Lt. Col. Mauro Cid, Jair Bolsonaros former personal assistant, with the Federal Police. Cid was arrested in May for falsifying Bolsonaros COVID-19 vaccination card. According to Cid, the draft decree was handed to Bolsonaro by his then-international advisor, Filipe Martins, a fascistic figure linked to white supremacist movements in the United States. A copy of the document, that became known in the press as the coup draft, was found in possession of Bolsonaros former justice minister, Anderson Torres, arrested in connection with the January 8 coup attempt in Brasilia. At the time, Torres was secretary of public security for the Federal District. The coup draft found with Torres included the order to implement a State of Defense at the headquarters of the Superior Electoral Court (STF), with the possible arrest of STF Minister Moraes, who at the time was president of the TSE, Brazils electoral high court, and the investigation of alleged irregularities in the electoral process through an Electoral Regularity Commission. Of the 17 representatives of that commission, eight would be appointed by the Ministry of Defense, which, at the end of last year, actively participated in the challenge to the electronic voting system initiated by Bolsonaro. Of the three military commanders present at the meeting, Cid said that only the then-commander of the Navy, Adm. Almir Garnier, favored the coup plan and promised that his troops would be ready to adhere to a call from the then president. According to Valor Economico, Cid has declared that, in contrast, the then-Army commander, Gen. Marco Antonio Freire Gomes, threatened Bolsonaro by saying: If you go ahead with this, Ill have to arrest you. The scene of General Freire Gomes standing up and crying to the President, Stop in the name of the law!, seems borrowed from a Hollywood movie. It plays directly into the hands of the narrative promoted by the top brass of the military and by Lulas government itself, with both claiming that, while bad apples should be punished, the Armed Forces were the responsible for preventing a coup in Brazil. The occurrence of such a meeting between Bolsonaro and the generals to discuss a coup detat, as well as the Navy commanders willingness to go ahead at any cost, has been confirmed by different sources, including US officials, as the Financial Times reported. The murky narrative about the Army saving Brazilian democracy, on the other hand, is contradicted by every piece of evidence, most damningly by the public actions of the former military commanders themselves in the aftermath of last years election. While Bolsonaro refused to concede his defeat to Lula, and his fascistic supporters blocked roads and gathered in front of Army barracks across the country to incite a military coup, the Armed Forces command gave them repeated signs of support. Eleven days after the meeting with Bolsonaro, on November 11, the three military commanders issued a joint statement entitled To the institutions and the Brazilian people. The statement defended the fascistic movement to overthrow the elections as popular demonstrations, and asserted that the Armed Forces, always present and acting as moderators in the most critical moments of our history, had an unrestrained and unwavering commitment to the people. Two days before this note was published, on November 9, the Ministry of Defense, headed by Army Gen. Paulo Sergio de Oliveira, published its report on the fairness of the elections. Its main conclusion was that the military technicians identified electoral procedures that posed a relevant risk to the security of the process, adding that it is not possible to affirm that the electronic voting system is free from the influence of a possible malicious code that could alter its operation. On the very eve of Lulas inauguration, General Freire Gomes resisted an order to remove the encampment of Bolsonaros supporters from the gates of the Army Headquarters in Brasilia, where the mob that invaded the governments headquarters on January 8 was mobilized. Faced with the latest revelations by Cid, Lulas Defense Minister Jose Mucio was forced to acknowledge that, The way things are going when you talk about the Armed Forces, it seems that everyone is a suspect. But, in the same statement, he redoubled the governments efforts to promote the military as saviors of democracy. Mucio claimed: There is only one thing Im crystal clear about: the coup was never in the interest of the Armed Forces; these are isolated attitudes of components of the forces. He concluded: We owe it to the Army, Navy and Air Force to maintain our democracy. The involvement of active and reserve military personnel in the coup plot that led to January 8 can also be revealed in the numerous investigations by the Attorney Generals Office. On September 15, the Superior Federal Court convicted the first three defendants for the January 8 fascist attack on Brasilias Three Branches of Government. They were sentenced to between 12 and 17 years for having committed the crimes of criminal association, coup detat, abolition of the democratic rule of law, qualified damage to federal property and deterioration of listed property. These crimes were considered multitudinous, in which it is not necessary to individualize the defendants conduct. In his vote, the minister reporting on the case, Alexandre de Moraes, stated, The idea was that, from this destruction [of the headquarters of the Three Branches], there would be a need for a GLO (Guarantee of Law and Order) and, with that ... obtain a military intervention, achieve the coup detat and overthrow the democratically elected government. In addition to these convicted defendants, there are almost 1,400 other people already indicted by the Federal Attorneys Office as the executors of the coup who will be tried in the coming months by the STF. The investigation by the Federal Attorneys Office also includes, in addition to the executors, the financiers of the coup plot, the participants by instigation, the intellectual authors and executors, and the state authorities responsible for failing to prevent it. Bolsonaro is being investigated as one of the intellectual authors. That Bolsonaro spent his presidential term plotting and building his fascist movement that led to the January 8 coup is undeniable. It is hard to predict if and when Bolsonaro will be arrested. That would risk exposing the entire rotten Brazilian capitalist system that gave rise to Bolsonaro and his coup threat, as well as the Lula government that is now covering up the role of the Armed Forces on January 8. What can be said with certainty is that the eventual arrest of the ex-president will not end the threat of a new military-backed coup attempt in Brazil. The origin of this threat lies in the enormous crisis that is engulfing the world capitalist system, with explosive consequences in Brazil, one of the most unequal countries in the world. Furthermore, all the power that a section of the Brazilian ruling elite invests in a reactionary figure like Minister Alexandre de Moraes in pursuit of Bolsonaro will only turn Brazilian bourgeois rule even further to the right. The legal precedents being set, such as the anti-democratic sentencing in July of Bolsonaro to eight years of ineligibility as a candidate, will be used with full force against the social protests and struggles of workers and youth that are to come. The working class cannot rely on the methods of the bourgeoisie even against a fascistic figure like Bolsonaro, who will pose as a victim of political persecution in order to strengthen himself and his reactionary supporters. Its response must be based on the development of an independent and international struggle against the source of the threat of dictatorship in Brazil and internationally, the capitalist system. Canadas parliament applauds Yaroslav Hunka, a former member of the Waffen-SS. Canadas Chief of Defence Staff General Wayne Eyre is on the far left. The standing ovation Friday by the entire Canadian parliament for a member of Adolf Hitlers Waffen-SS has exposed before the whole world the nature of the US-NATO war against Russia in Ukraine. The scene of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and all MPs, without exception, rising to their feet to acclaim Yaroslav Hunka, a member of the Waffen-SS Galicia Division, demonstrates that the United States and NATO are waging war on Russia in alliance with the most reactionary political forces in the world. The fact that this war criminal, drenched in the blood of tens of millions of victims of Nazi Germany, was welcomed as the symbol of NATOs war against Russia is entirely in keeping with the wars predatory aims. This is a war which the imperialist powers, Canada included, are pursuing in collaboration with the political descendants of war criminals like Hunka, and the Nazi regime for which he fought, to subordinate Russia to the status of a semi-colony. Canadas ruling elite, supported by the media at home and abroad, is in full damage control mode as it tries to cover up this reality. The resignation of Speaker Anthony Rota Tuesday became the occasion for a doubling down on the absurd narrative that he alone decided to feature Hunka prominently during Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelenskys high-profile state visit to Canada, without having full knowledge of his political past. Speaking to the New York Times, Professor Lori Turnbull asserted that it would have been inappropriate and unusual for Rota to inform the government about who he was inviting to parliament due to the independence of the Speaker. This is preposterous. Fridays event was not a routine parliamentary session, but a visit by the head of the Ukrainian state, which Ottawa has backed to the hilt with over $9 billion in military and financial assistance in the war against Russia. Each stage of the proceedings would have been carefully planned and scripted in advance. To suggest otherwise is to take ones readers for fools. In introducing Hunka, Rota stated: We have in the chamber today a Ukrainian war veteran from the Second World War who fought for Ukrainian independence against the Russians and continues to support the troops today, even at his age of 98. His name is Yaroslav Hunka but I am very proud to say he is from North Bay and from my riding of Nipissing-Timiskaming. He is a Ukrainian hero, a Canadian hero, and we thank him for all his service. Even without any forewarning, these remarks should have made clear to all but the politically illiterate that Hunka was a Nazi. This is especially true in Canada, where it is a well documented fact that tens of thousands of Ukrainian fascists and up to 2,000 members of the Waffen-SS were welcomed into the country after World War II. Yet all MPs without one single exception, the head of the Canadian military Gen. Wayne Eyre, Trudeau and Zelensky rose to their feet and applauded. Behind the prime minister and Ukrainian president stood Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, whose maternal grandfather Mykhailo Tschomiak was the publisher of the Ukrainian-language fascist newspaper Krakivski visti, which celebrated the creation of the Galicia Division and incited antisemitism throughout World War II. Karina Gould, the governments House Leader, met personally with Hunka. She later claimed to the Times that she would have never in a million years stood and applauded someone who aided the Nazis. But the fact of the matter is that she did. Pleading ignorance, as the saying goes, does not excuse a crime. Even the Globe and Mail, the voice of the Canadian bourgeoisie, admitted in a Wednesday editorial that precisely how Hunka was invited to take a bow during Zelenskys visit in parliament remains yet unexplained. The Globe is nervous because the propaganda mask of a war for Ukrainian democracy has well and truly been torn off. The ovation for Hunka follows a series of events in Canada and the United States in which fascists of the Azov Battalion have been prominently featured, such as in a June 29 event at Stanford University. The desperate attempts to deny the obviousthat the celebration of Hunka was a deliberate political provocation which backfired spectacularlyare driven by the fact that the standing ovation given to a Nazi war criminal explodes the propaganda used to sell the US-led war on Russia in Ukraine. Politicians, media outlets and academics have contrived a thoroughly ahistorical narrative to justify the war based on a denial of everything that happened prior to February 24, 2022. This is summed up in the incessant talk of Putins war of aggression, against which Ukraines sovereignty and democracy must be defended. This cynical operation involved not simply overlooking the eight years of war in eastern Ukraine that followed the 2014 Western-backed coup in Kiev that was spearheaded by fascist forces. It also entailed blacking out the 30 years of uninterrupted war waged by US imperialism since the Stalinist bureaucracys dissolution of the Soviet Union, including the millions who died as a result. Drunk on their own war propaganda, the ruling elites would now like everyone to forget the most horrific events of the 20th century, above all the Nazis war of annihilation against the Soviet Union and extermination of six million Jews in the Holocaust. As Trudeau told MPs from his Liberal caucus Wednesday, according to a CBC report, (T)hey should avoid speaking to the press about Hunkas invitation and the subsequent fallout, and that the media frenzy would die down if they stay tight-lipped. Trudeau did not even bother to apologize to Russia, whose citizens made up the bulk of the close to 40 million people killed as a result of the war of annihilation against the Soviet Union that was carried out by the Nazi regime for which Hunka fought. Instead, he directed his public apology Wednesday to Zelensky. In fact, Zelensky, who knew perfectly well who Hunka was, applauded him in the Canadian parliament because, not in spite of, the fact that he is a Nazi war criminal. Zelenskys actions have completely exposed all of those who have used the Ukrainian presidents Jewish background to deny his connections to fascist forces. The accidental invitation to and standing ovation for Hunka are rooted in the historical necessity of the war. Fridays events could only have taken place in the context of the dramatic escalation by the imperialist powers of the war against Russia in alliance with fascists. Hunka, for his part, is a genuine representative of Ukrainian nationalism, which has been steeped in fascism and antisemitism since the early 20th century. During the 1930s and 1940s, the Ukrainian nationalists aligned themselves with German fascism and fought with the Nazis as they launched their drive to the east in World War II after the June 1941 invasion of the Soviet Union. Today, they support American, German, and Canadian imperialism in a conflict aimed at toppling the Putin regime, breaking up Russia and seizing control of its natural resources. This strategy finds unanimous support within Canadas political establishment, which is why they all applauded Hunka. The blatant exposure of their fascist allies provided by the standing ovation for Hunka in Canadas parliament could not have come at a worse time for the imperialists. Zelenskys trip to Canada, coming after his visit to Washington for talks with US President Biden, was aimed at laying the groundwork for a drastic escalation of the war following Ukraines disastrous spring/summer offensive. This has been underlined by strikes on the Russian Black Sea Fleet headquarters and other targets in Crimea using long-range precision missiles provided by Britain, and the sending by the US of the ATACMS long-range missile capable of striking targets hundreds of miles inside Russia. The response of the media in the US and Europe to Fridays standing ovation for a Nazi is to downplay it with perfunctory reports. The same publications that celebrate the tearing down of statues of revolutionary leaders of the 18th and 19th centuries due to their supposed lack of zeal in abolishing slavery have virtually nothing to say when a Nazi involved in the extermination of European Jewry is lauded in the parliament of a major Western power. The sickening sight of a veteran of one of the most vile and despicable organizations in human historythe Waffen-SSreceiving unanimous acclaim in the parliament of one of the major democracies has been made possible by corrupt and cynical layers of the affluent upper-middle class, who have swallowed the imperialists war propaganda hook, line and sinker. The vast majority of academics, including even those involved in Holocaust research, have maintained a scandalous and shameful silence on the gross falsifications of history that have accompanied the US/NATO war on Russia. These include the cover-up of the fascist traditions of Ukrainian nationalism and the relativization of the worst crimes in human history perpetrated by the Nazis. Lacking any commitment to historical truth, the pro-war academics have exchanged serious scholarship for blather about human rights and democratic values, which always correspond to the geostrategic and economic interests of imperialism. It is high time for those within the academic fraternity who retain any shred of political principle to reconsider their position and speak out forcefully against pro-Nazi war propaganda of the kind displayed in Canadas parliament. The working class, however, cannot wait for them. The standing ovation by an entire democratic government for a Nazi war criminal is a warning to working people all over the world. The social forces responsible for the greatest crimes in human history are being rehabilitated alongside the escalation of a war whose potential death toll is incalculable. The US-NATO war against Russia, and its accompanying promotion of openly fascist forces, must be stopped! NEW YORK Cops seized three 3D-printed guns and a 3D printer from an East Harlem day care as part of a sting operation that nabbed three people suspected of manufacturing ghost guns, NYPD officials announced Wednesday. The arrests came after the execution on Tuesday of three search warrants targeting the suspects, two of whom are minors. The arrests and gun seizures come just days after a Bronx toddler died due to a suspected overdose from fentanyl at a Bronx daycare that police and prosecutors say doubled as a stash house for large quantities of the dangerous drug. This is a heartbreaking scenario, thinking that youre dropping your child off to a place of safe haven just to find out that it was a dangerous environment, Mayor Eric Adams said of the ghost guns bust. NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism Rebecca Weiner said the investigation resulting in the three arrests is ongoing. That probe is being spearheaded by the NYPD and investigators from Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Braggs office. The guns allegedly manufactured by the suspects were made from a combination of parts procured online and through the use of parts produced by a 3D printer, according to police officials. NYPD sources identified the 18-year-old arrested in the apartment on East 117th Street near Park Avenue as Karon Coley. Hes being charged with weapons possession, manufacture of a machine gun and acting in a manner injurious to a child, among other charges. The probe began, according to Weiner, when investigators discovered a group of people that included minors buying ghost gun parts and 3D printing materials from online retailers. Those purchases were made through fraudulent means including identity theft, which led investigators to execute two search warrants, she said. Those searches pointed investigators to Coley and led to the execution of a third search warrant at Coleys familys apartment, where cops found evidence showing he was involved in using 3D printers to create illegal guns, Weiner added. Story continues Its important for us to underline that this private residence located in the 25th Precinct is also a licensed day care operated by the subjects mother, she said. Inside, cops seized a printer, two completed firearms and one partially-completed automatic assault pistol in the final stages of assembly, Weiner added. Two sources who live in the same building as the day care confirmed to the New York Daily News on Wednesday that the woman who runs it out of her two-bedroom apartment is April Coley. One of those neighbors, who asked to remain anonymous, said April Coley was questioned by the NYPD and that her son Karon Jamal Coley and a younger male were also arrested Tuesday. Contacted by phone, April Coley told the Daily News that she hadnt been charged and declined further comment. According to Weiner, cops also found an obviously maltreated and neglected dog, which the NYPDs animal cruelty unit removed for evaluation. The day care that shares an address with Coleys residence is Alays Daycare. Calls and emails to Alays were not immediately returned. Hours after the arrests were announced at NYPD headquarters, reporters and camera crews flooded the apartment building where Alays operates. Investigators from the Administration for Childrens Services also showed up trying to track down the day cares proprietors. One tenant, who lives down the hall and also asked to remain anonymous to avoid trouble with his neighbors, said that a woman and her son ran the day care, where parents typically picked their kids up in the afternoon just hours before the search warrant was executed around 7 p.m. on Tuesday. I cant believe it. I just cant believe it, the man said. Thats crazy. Ghost gun seizures in the city have been trending upward over the last three years and have increasingly become a priority for the NYPD and prosecutors. In June 2022, Adams and New York State Attorney General Letitia James announced that they filed two lawsuits against gun distributors selling gun parts in an effort to skirt the law. Weiner noted Wednesday that in 2021, the NYPD seized 263 so-called privately manufactured firearms, and that the number recovered in 2022 nearly doubled, climbing to 436. So far this year, the NYPD has seized 290 of the guns three times as many as were recovered by the same time last year, she said. Since 2020, our office has brought prosecutions, based on this collaboration, that involve seizures of 93 ghost gun parts, 66 ghost guns and firearms, 428 high-capacity magazines and 47 silencers, Bragg said. Those are prosecutions that made New York and Manhattan safer. _____ In this video, Cheryl Crisp, national secretary of the Socialist Equality Party (Australia), outlines the partys call for an active boycott of Labors Voice referendum. The campaign, as Crisp explains, is directed at charting an independent political path for all workers and young people, in opposition to the pro-business racialism espoused by the Yes and No camps. For an active boycott of Australian Labors Voice referendum! We encourage readers to share the video, which is also available on YouTube and Facebook, as widely as possible through social media and email, as well as to coworkers, friends and family. The video appeals to viewers to attend the SEPs upcoming public meeting on the active boycott campaign, which will be held at 2 p.m. (AEDT) on Sunday, October 1, in Community Room 2, Bryan Brown Theatre, 80 Rickard Rd, Bankstown, Sydney. The meeting will also be livestreamed. Register now to attend in person or online. 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 CALGARY, AB, Sept. 28, 2023 /CNW/ - Good Earth Cafes Ltd. (Good Earth Coffeehouse), a Canadian coffee and sustainable community-focused brand, is delighted to announce a strategic partnership with Marcus & Millichap, a leading commercial real estate brokerage firm, to further strengthen and expand the Good Earth Coffeehouse brand in Canada. Good Earth Coffeehouse, Calgary AB (CNW Group/Good Earth Coffeehouse) Good Earth Coffeehouse has engaged Marcus & Millichap as its national real estate representative to spearhead the search for prime locations to expand Good Earth Coffeehouse operations, spanning from Vancouver Island to Ontario. The company is actively in pursuit of spaces, typically around 1,500 square feet in size, to establish new coffeehouses. Additionally, Good Earth is open to exploring smaller sites, including opportunities for kiosks, in diverse settings such as street front locations, multi-use buildings, and shopping centers. Ryan McLaughlin, based in Marcus & Millichap's Toronto office, has been appointed as the lead for this exciting venture, bringing his expertise in the Canadian real estate market to facilitate Good Earth Coffeehouse's strategic expansion plans. "We are pleased to be selected for this assignment and look forward to working with Good Earth Coffeehouse in Canada to expand their brand through our firm's specialization, market knowledge and access to the industry's largest inventory of commercial real estate," said Mark Paterson, first vice president, broker of record in Marcus & Millichap's Toronto office. Michael Going, CEO & Founder of Good Earth Coffeehouse, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, "This partnership with Marcus & Millichap is a significant step towards realizing our vision of bringing the Good Earth Coffeehouse experience to even more Canadians. With our shared commitment to excellence, sustainability, and community, we are confident in our ability to find ideal locations for our coffeehouses and further enhance our brand presence nationwide." Story continues Good Earth Coffeehouse currently operates a thriving network with by the end of this year over 60 coffeehouses and growing, spanning from the picturesque Victoria, BC to the vibrant city of Toronto, ON. Recent expansions have witnessed the brand making significant inroads out east, captivating new communities with its exceptional coffee, welcoming ambiance, and unwavering commitment to sustainability. As Good Earth Coffeehouse embarks on this exciting journey of growth and expansion with Marcus & Millichap, it continues to uphold its core values as a community-focused coffeehouse, serving exceptional coffee and fresh, wholesome food. For more information about Good Earth Coffeehouse and its partnership with Marcus & Millichap, please visit goodearthcoffeehouse.com and marcusmillichap.com/canada. About Good Earth Coffeehouse: Good Earth is a network of authentic coffeehouses by the end of this year over 60 coffeehouses throughout Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario. The first Good Earth Coffeehouse opened in Calgary in 1991. Founders Nan Eskenazi and Michael Going began with a desire to serve exceptional coffee and wholesome food, with a down-to-earth attitude. Good Earth has focused on creating a unique experience for customers through the combination of a distinctive coffeehouse environment with social and environmental responsibility. The company has grown through franchising and remains true to the original mission... to be a coffeehouse with good food. About Marcus & Millichap, Inc. (NYSE: MMI) Marcus & Millichap, Inc. is a leading brokerage firm specializing in commercial real estate investment sales, leasing, financing, research and advisory services with offices throughout the United States and Canada. As of December 31, 2022, the company had 1,904 investment sales and financing professionals in 81 offices who provide investment, leasing and financing services to sellers and buyers of commercial real estate. The company also offers market research, consulting and advisory services to clients. Marcus & Millichap closed 12,272 transactions in 2022, with a sales volume of approximately $116.4 billion (CAD). For additional information, please visit www.MarcusMillichap.ca. SOURCE Good Earth Coffeehouse Cision View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/September2023/28/c3054.html (Bloomberg) -- An alumnus of Googles artificial intelligence research unit DeepMind has a new venture fund, Mythos Ventures, that will bankroll young AI startups. Most Read from Bloomberg Vishal Maini, a former DeepMind researcher, founded Mythos earlier this year and has raised $14 million from more than four dozen investors, according to a filing this month. Maini is one of dozens of former employees from Alphabet Inc.s Google now equipped with money, expertise and the desire to shape AI technology as an entrepreneur, an investor, or both. I was thinking about space exploration, climate change, longevity and health care and I keep coming back to AI; Its the transformational technology for all of this, Maini said in his first interview about the fund. Its the sci-fi future weve always dreamed about, but humans are still in the drivers seat. Venture investors and public companies have plowed billions into AI startups during the past year, supercharging the nascent industry and increasing concerns that the technology is developing without adequate oversight. Maini said safe and ethical development of AI, a focus of his while at DeepMind, will continue to be his priority as an investor. Mythos will back seed-stage AI startups building what Maini described as pro-social technologies. He will also look for startups that have the promise to transform old economies and have long-term plans for the future of AI. Maini said San Francisco-based Mythos aims to write checks between $100,000 and $1 million. So far, the firm has backed one stealth company and three other startups: the robotic stone carving factory Monumental Labs Inc., real estate valuation company ValueBase and research assistant Elicit. Story continues Elicit, which spun out of nonprofit research lab Ought into a public benefit corporation, said Monday it raised $9 million, led by VC firm Fifty Years with participation from Mythos, Google Chief Scientist Jeff Dean and others. Despite his experience and the markets broad enthusiasm for all things AI, raising a fund for the first time was rough, Maini said. Its a very difficult time to be fundraising, he said. Investors in Mythos first fund include later-stage AI venture firm Metaplanet Holdings along with Delphi Ventures, the Operating Group and several individuals who are focused on AI, Maini said. --With assistance from Mark Bergen. (Company corrects name of investor in the last paragraph of story from Sept. 26. It is the Operating Group, not the related entity the Coin Operated Group.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. BELLEVILLE, ON, Sept. 28, 2023 /CNW/ - Members of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative (Cities Initiative) were delighted to join the Hon. Steven Guilbeault, Canada's Minister of Environment and Climate Change, as he announced federal funding to safeguard the country's most important freshwater resource, the Great Lakes. Today's announcement included a reaffirmation of the federal government's unprecedented $420-million commitment for Great Lakes protection and restoration. The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative (CNW Group/The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative) "Since its creation twenty years ago, the Cities Initiative has championed the protection and revitalization of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River Basin, in partnership with government leaders, environmental advocates and community stakeholders," said Gino Moretti, Mayor Saint-Anicet, QC and Chair of the Cities Initiative. "This major investment sets up Canada to protect an essential freshwater resource where more than 90 percent of Ontario residents live, work and play. We applaud the Government of Canada for working with local governments and making this historic investment." Minister Guilbeault indicated that the $420 million announced earlier this year by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for Great Lakes funding will go towards addressing Areas of Concern, as well as meeting Canada's phosphorous loading targets for Lake Erie and obligations under the binational Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement. "As mayor of a waterfront community, I am pleased to see the Government of Canada finally make a significant commitment to accelerate the protection of the Great Lakes and reverse the legacy of pollution in our basin," said Lucas Cleveland, Mayor of Cobourg, ON. "Through local action by municipalities, Indigenous communities, and conservation groups, we can improve water quality and build up a prosperous blue economy that leverages our vital freshwater resource in a sustainable manner and avoids the mistakes of the past." Story continues "It's great to see the results of advocacy by mayors, local leaders and the Great Lakes community, including the Cities Initiative, to address freshwater quality in our region," said Steve Ferguson, Mayor of Prince Edward County, ON. "The Government of Canada's focus on completing the clean-up of the Bay of Quinte Area of Concern as part of its $420-million investment is truly welcomed by The County and our residents." About the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative is a binational coalition led by mayors and local elected leaders working collaboratively to promote the environmental and socioeconomic health of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River Basin for the benefit of current and future generations. With more than 250-member municipalities, the Cities Initiative is the largest municipally-driven organization in the basin. SOURCE The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative Cision View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/September2023/28/c5761.html Bobby Greenlease, 6, was abducted on Sept. 28, 1953 from his school by a woman posing as his aunt AP Photo Bobby Greenlease Its been 70 years since the abduction of 6-year-old Bobby Greenlease sent shockwaves through Missouri and beyond. On Sept. 28, 1953, the young boy was abducted from his school by a woman posing as his aunt. Shortly after the kidnapping, his family including his father Robert Cosgrove Greenlease, Sr., who was a wealthy Cadillac dealer in Kansas City, Mo., at the time began to receive a slew of ransom demands. According to the FBI, the first letter demanded $600,000, which the captors wanted in $20 and $10 bills. (This amount of money is equivalent to nearly $7 million in 2023.) The Greenlease family received numerous ransom notes regarding their son and more than a dozen phone calls between September 28 and October 5. On October 5, the kidnappers later identified as Carl Hall and Bonnie Heady confirmed that they received the entire $600,000 and told the Greenlease family that Bobby was safe and would be returned home. Sadly, only part of this message was true. Hall and Heady did in fact receive the massive ransom, but unfortunately, the Greenleases would never see their son alive again. One day later on October 6, Hall, 34, was arrested at a hotel in St. Louis, Mo., and Heady, 41, was arrested later that evening at an apartment nearby. During questioning, Hall cracked and told authorities about the kidnapping scheme and confirmed what everyone feared most: Bobby was dead. His remains were found on Oct. 7 in Headys yard in St. Joseph, Mo., after Hall told authorities the location, according to the FBI. Hall initially refused to take responsibility for the young boy's death, but eventually after days of interrogation he admitted to fatally shooting Bobby shortly after he was taken from his school by Heady. Although Hall came from a well-to-do family, he blew through his inheritance after the death of his parents and viewed the kidnapping plan as a get-rich-quick scheme after he dedicated himself to a life of crime. Hall met Heady who also came from a well-off family after he was released from prison for robbery, TIME reported in 1953. While the kidnapping was the deadly duo's original plan, Hall admitted that the murder of the young boy was planned too: Bobbys grave was dug before Heady arrived at his school on that fateful day in September of 1953, per TIME. At a hearing on Oct. 30, 1953, Hall and Heady both pleaded guilty to the kidnapping and killing of Bobby and were quickly sentenced to death. AP Photo Bonnie Heady and Carl Hall I think the verdict fits the evidence, Judge Albert L. Reeves, who was overseeing the case, said, according to the FBI. It is the most coldblooded, brutal murder I have ever tried. The murderous couple were executed together in a gas chamber in Jefferson City, Mo., on Dec. 18, 1953, dying only 20 seconds apart and less than three months after killing Bobby. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. Although the horrifying case was closed rather quickly, one question still remains: Where is the ransom money? Only half of the money has been recovered. Two St. Louis officers, Lieutenant Louis Ira Shoulders and Patrolman Elmer Dolan, were charged in connection with lying about the money during testimony, according to the FBI. Charged and convicted of perjury, Shoulders was sentenced to three years in prison and Dolan was sentenced to two years. After their prison releases, they both returned to St. Louis. However, in 1965 after Shoulders passed away, President Lyndon B. Johnson pardoned Dolan after he admitted to perjuring himself out of fear of Shoulders, according to St. Louis True Crime Report. But still, to this day, the $300,000 (equal to nearly $3.5 million dollars in 2023) has never been found. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Washington, D.C. police has issued a lookout for three people in a gray SUV that was seen fleeing from the scene of the crime DC Police Department/X Washington, D.C. Acting Police Chief Pamela A. Smith At least two men were killed and three others were injured in a shooting in a Washington, D.C. neighborhood, according to authorities. Washington, D.C. Acting Police Chief Pamela A. Smith said in a press conference that on Wednesday night at around 9.50 p.m. officers had responded to the sounds of gunshots near the intersection of 14th Street and Saratoga Avenue, Northeast in the Brentwood area. She said when the officers arrived on the scene, they immediately found three people with gunshot wounds. Two men were pronounced dead at the scene and another was transported to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Smith said two more men suffering from gunshot wounds which a preliminary investigation determined was likely from the same shooting incident brought themselves to a nearby hospital. One of them was listed in critical condition, while the other had non-life-threatening injuries. Acting Chief Pamela A. Smith provides an update to the homicide that occurred near the intersection of 14th Street and Saratoga Avenue, Northeast. pic.twitter.com/a4djkROUyH DC Police Department (@DCPoliceDept) September 28, 2023 Related: More Than 50 Arrested as Mobs of Masked Young People Ransack Stores in Philadelphia's Center City "Right now we have a lookout for three people in a gray SUV that was seen fleeing the scene," Smith added, before urging members of the public with any information on the incident to come forward to police. We know someone out in the community has information about what happened tonight, she continued. Smith did not provide any other details on the incident or suspects involved. However, she later responded to a reporter asking whether an exchange of gunfire occurred between the people injured and noted that investigators were still in the very preliminary stages of the investigation. 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 acting police chief also addressed a query from a reporter about increased crime in the area. [Youre] having these crew on crew senseless arguments with firearms being introduced when folks have disputes as opposed to being able to resolve them the way we would typically resolve a dispute, she said. "What I will say is that our officers were present in this area, as they always are on an ongoing basis." Related: 3 S.C. Teens Are Fatally Shot in Tragic Culmination of Years-Long 'Beef' with Other Group The shooting comes after a teenage boy was found in the northern part of the city with gunshot wounds on Tuesday, per Fox 5 DC. The outlet reported that the boy had been part of a dispute and was later pronounced dead Another man was found with gunshot wounds and also pronounced dead an hour later in the southern part of the city. FOX 5 DC also noted that the number of homicides in 2023 has now reached 200, Police are asking anyone who has any information about the incident on Wednesday to contact them at 202-727-9099 or to text them at 50411. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Karon Jamal Coley, 18, was arrested on Tuesday after police say he printed firearms in his home which is also a daycare center Getty Stock photo of police tape. Several arrests were made in New York City on Tuesday following the recovery of privately made firearms inside a daycare facility in Manhattan. Three people, including two minors, were arrested after the discovery and recovery of multiple 3D printed firearms, Rebecca Weiner, Deputy Commissioner of the New York Police Departments intelligence and counterterrorism bureau, said during a press conference on Wednesday. The arrests came from a previously ongoing investigation that began with a group of individuals, including some minors, who were purchasing ghost gun parts from online retailers, as well as materials and filaments required to print 3D firearm components, Weiner said. That investigation led NYPD to execute two search warrants on Tuesday, and ultimately led them to 18-year-old Karon Jamal Coley, whose mother owns and operates a licensed daycare center out of their home in the citys 25th precinct. According to Christina Chang, Executive Deputy Commissioner and Chief Program Officer with the NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene, the daycare was last inspected in February. A few violations were found regarding feeding schedules and some parental preferences, but all the issues were addressed. Inside this daycare facility, investigators recovered a 3D printer, 3D printing tools and plastic filament, two completed 3D printed firearms, one 3D printed assault pistol in the final stages of assembly and one additional 3D printed lower receiver, Weiner said. She added, Mr. Coley was arrested. Related: 2 Charged After Death of 1-Year-Old in N.Y.C. Daycare Incident Involving Opioid Exposure Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said during the press conference that Coley was arraigned Wednesday on charges including possession of illegal firearms, manufacturing of an assault weapon and reckless endangerment. Weiner called Tuesdays arrests part of a larger trend into whats become a global problem, namely the manufacture and sale of privately made firearms, or PMFs, which include ghost guns and 3D printed firearms. She added, When made well, ghost guns and 3D printed firearms operate just like commercial firearms. In the hands of teenagers, they can inflict just as much violence. Its a growing problem in the city as the number of PMFs has continued to grow year-over-year since 2021. NYPD News/X Police Commissioner Edward A. Caban joins Mayor Eric Adams for a public safety related announcement. Related: Trapdoor with Narcotics Found at New York City Daycare Where Boy, 1, Died from Fentanyl Exposure During the press conference, New York City Mayor Eric Adams expressed his frustration at the growing issue. Who would have thought that we must add to our list of inspections, Do we have 3D printers that can print guns? Making a comparison to the news earlier this month that several children were exposed to fentanyl and a one-year-old boy died as a result at a daycare in the Bronx, Mayor Adams said, Now were finding in addition to fentanyl that in a similar setting, we saw the presence of ghost guns and devices that appear to make those guns. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), New York City Police Commissioner Edward Caban expressed his gratitude to the groups working to reduce the threat of PMFs in the city. The emergence of polymer guns or ghost guns triggered the creation of a specialized task force that has been effective in ridding the illegal firearms from our streets," he posted. "Those same Intelligence Division investigators are now at the forefront of a new threat the 3-D gun. My thanks to them all for taking this newest type in illegal gun off of our streets. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Errol Musk told Insider he isn't happy with what he's heard about the new biography on his son. Elon Musk's father said he doesn't plan to read the book, but he's seen excerpts from it. Errol Musk is a central figure in the book, but said he resents being cast as the villain. Errol Musk isn't happy with Walter Isaacson's recent biography about his son, Elon Musk. Elon Musk's father, an engineer from South Africa who was at one point involved in the emerald business, is a central and controversial figure in the book. Isaacson's biography on Elon Musk is filled with accounts of incidents where the Tesla CEO and other family members claim Errol Musk bullied and demeaned Elon. In the past, Errol Musk has repeatedly denied the accounts. In the book, Isaacson claims Elon's negative relationship with his father helped shape his personality and outlook on life characterizing Errol as a sort of Darth Vader to Elon's Luke Skywalker and Errol's impact on Elon's psyche as "a danger that needed to be constantly battled." Errol's name appears more than 120 times in the over 600-page book. But Errol said that he doesn't plan to read the full book, aside from some excerpts that he said journalists and friends have sent him. "Why would I want to read someone's poor interpretation of the story? I was there," Errol Musk told Insider in a phone interview. "And then of course there's stuff about Elon and his wives and children and all that which is not my business. I don't want to read about stuff that's not my business," he added. Errol Musk's name appears over 120 times in Walter Isaacson's new biography on Elon Musk. Denver Post Photo by Cyrus McCrimmon The 77-year-old said he doesn't feel Isaacson was able to get an accurate picture of his life or his character based on the one conversation he said they had over the phone. In his book, Isaacson wrote that he spoke to Errol for about three hours and exchanged a series of follow-up calls and emails with him over the course of two years. Errol said he felt he'd been cast as the villain Ultimately, Errol Musk said he feels the book is an over-dramatization of his son's life and one that inaccurately casts him as the villain in his son's story. "He writes things people want to hear," Errol said of Isaacson. "They want to read about poor little Pip and poor little Oliver Twist," Errol Musk said, referencing Charles Dickens' novels "Great Expectations" and "Oliver Twist." "Those are my sons and I'm as they said 'Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,' which is not true. It makes for good reading, but it's not necessarily accurate." In the biography, Isaacson wrote that Errol has a "Jekyll-and-Hyde nature." "There were times when Errol would be jovial and fun, but occasionally he would become dark, verbally abusive, and possessed by fantasies and conspiracies," Isaacson wrote of Musk's time living with his father during his adolescence in a portion of the book he titled "Jekyll and Hyde." Elon Musk has made similar comments in the past. In 2017, he told Rolling Stone that his father was "a terrible human being." "My dad will have a carefully thought-out plan of evil," he told the publication. "He will plan evil." Errol Musk has also faced scrutiny for a romantic relationship with his former stepdaughter Jana Bezuidenhout, whom he fathered two children with after divorcing her mother. In the biography on Elon Musk, Isaacson wrote that the billionaire was worried his father was "uncomfortably attentive" to the stepdaughter when she was 15 years old. Errol denied the claims, saying he was equally attentive to all of his children. "It's nothing like what the press say that 'I made my stepdaughter pregnant,''" Errol Musk said, adding that his former stepdaughter was in her 30s when she had a child with him. "That's laughable. That's an absolute joke. I mean women don't get 'made pregnant,' women make decisions." Insider has previously attempted to contact Bezuidenhout for comment on the book and her relationship with Errol, but has not heard back. After Isaacson's book was published earlier this month, Errol Musk said the author called him to get his reaction to the biography. "I told him he'd gone for sensationalism and he laughed," Errol Musk said, adding that the author told him that he hoped Errol would eventually be able to repair his relationship with his children. 'I'm their dad. I'm not their pal.' In the book, Isaacson wrote that Elon Musk and his brother Kimbal Musk have cut off communication with their father an assertion Errol Musk denies. "Kimbal two days ago because of his birthday I sent him a happy birthday greeting. To which he sent me a 'Thanks Dad,'" Errol said. (Kimbal's birthday took place on September 20, two days before Insider spoke with Errol.) Errol Musk added that he'd also communicated with Elon Musk's office just hours before we'd spoke regarding funding for a trip he plans to take to Florida in November to speak on a panel. Elon Musk (left) and Kimbal Musk (right) have cut off communication with their father, according to Isaacson. Joel Saget/AFP and Chris Saucedo/Getty Images "I have the same relationship with my sons as my father had with me," Errol said. "In other words, we are men, we don't hang out with each other. They're my children. I'm their dad. I'm not their pal." Isaacson, Elon Musk, and Kimbal Musk did not respond to a request for comment ahead of publication. Though Errol Musk claims to have not read the book, he pointed out a few instances from the biography where he felt Isaacson's account didn't match his understanding of his son, including an incident where Elon Musk got into an argument with Bill Gates after he learned the Microsoft cofounder had shorted Tesla's stock. "I was quite surprised because I know Elon wouldn't do that. He's very stoic," Errol Musk said, adding he'd not previously heard of the argument. "To get Elon to say two words by the way is very difficult. He's a one-word person." Read the original article on Business Insider The 15th annual Atlantic Festival kicks off Thursday, Sept. 28, for two days of events with headline-making speakers from the world of politics as well as renowned authors, actors, filmmakers, and business and tech leaders. CBS News is the broadcast media partner for The Atlantic Festival, and CBS News journalists will moderate a number of conversations on the event's stages in Washington, D.C. Hillary Clinton will sit down in conversation with The Atlantic's editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg , Friday morning to discuss existential threats to democracy. Goldberg will also interview Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra and the secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, Lonnie G. Bunch III, will also take the stage for live conversations, as will Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro; Utah Governor Spencer Cox; Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-Texas); former congressman and 2024 Republican presidential candidate Will Hurd; and former Representative Gabby Giffords. The promise and risks of artificial intelligence will be probed in a conversation with Mira Murati, chief technology officer of OpenAI. Actor, producer and activist Kerry Washington and award-winning author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie are also slated to appear. The evening of Sept. 28 will feature the debut of Netflix's forthcoming docuseries "Big Vape: The Rise and Fall of Juul," followed by a conversation featuring the series's director, the famed documentarian R. J. Cutler. Sept. 29 will feature a night of live storytelling with the filmmaker Spike Lee, in conversation with The Atlantic's contributing writer Jemele Hill. Read more about The Atlantic Festival here. You can watch a live video stream from the festival's Ideas Stage in the video player below starting at 9:30 a.m. ET: North Korea says it will expel Travis King, U.S. soldier who ran across border Arrest warrent issued for suspect in killing of 26-year-old Baltimore tech CEO Newest car theft threat: carhackers Some attendees at Donald Trumps speech about the autoworkers strike Wednesday apparently were shills carrying signs falsely identifying them as union members, the Detroit News reported. One person held a sign that said union members for Trump, but admitted to the newspaper she was not a union member. Another carried a placard with the words auto workers for Trump and confessed he was not an auto worker when the outlet requested an interview. Neither identified themselves. Trump visited Michigan to show solidarity with striking United Auto Workers members, but instead stoked fear about electric cars to the crowd at a nonunion auto parts supplier. He warned workers that they would be out of a job in a few years, even if they secured sought-after salary increases. Your current negotiations dont mean as much as you think, he said. Donald Trump was in Michigan to court blue-collar workers but there were questions about the rally attendees. Donald Trump was in Michigan to court blue-collar workers but there were questions about the rally attendees. The affiliations of the guests receiving his message came into question. The business, Drake Enterprises in suburban Detroit, employs about 150 people who are not represented by the UAW, the newspaper noted. And there were an estimated 400 to 500 in attendance. Former President Donald Trump spoke about the autoworkers' strike in Clinton Township, Michigan, but who was he speaking to? Former President Donald Trump spoke about the autoworkers' strike in Clinton Township, Michigan, but who was he speaking to? The Guardian cast doubt on the composition of the crowd, writing Trumps pitch for autoworker votes in car heartland is short on autoworkers in its headline. United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain called Trumps rally at a nonunion shop a pathetic irony, The Daily Beast reported. Trump has faced crowd-related controversy before. His inflated boasts about attendance at his 2017 inauguration got his presidency off to a falsehood-marred start. The four-times-indicted 2024 Republican front-runner made his pitch to Michigan voters while avoiding another GOP debate. Related... It looks like Bam Margera is picking up a new tattoo, and this time, he is dedicating it to Britney Spears. The 44-year-old former stunt performer visited First Hand Tattoo in Pennsylvania, which posted photos of his new ink on Instagram. Bam Margera Gets New Ink To Pay Homage To Britney Spears! Instagram | Nikki Sobeck Trending: Britney Spears Has Reportedly Discussed Her Memoir With Her Two Sons Al Pacinos Friends Worried About His Emotional State Amid Custody Troubles Fans Call Britney Spears Ex Sam Asghari A Good Guy Amid Charity Event Appearance Tupacs Brother Mopreme Speaks Out, Says Keefe Ds Arrest Is Bittersweet Chers Close Friend Reveals New Details About Alleged Kidnapping Of Her Son On Tuesday, tattoo artist Nicki Sobeck of First Hand Tattoo took to Instagram to share a photo of Bam Margera getting some new ink. Already covered in tattoos, he decided to get a new tattoo to pay homage to Britney Spears amid his own struggles. The tattoo says Britney Spears along with a little heart. Underneath it, it reads, Oops they did it to ME too! along with a small smiley face. Instagram | Nikki Sobeck In the caption of a video unveiling the new tattoo, Nicki wrote, Got to tattoo @bam__margera today what a wild ride thanks man for being just genuine and cool! In the comments, fans were quick to praise the TV personality. He was just in the store I work at a few weeks ago! He was very nice and seemed super genuine. I hope he stays on the up and up, one fan commented. Super nice to all of us. He was rad, Nikki replied. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nikki Sobeck (@nikkiink215) Yooooo this is awesome!! He was at Costco, another follower shared. Second person I know this week who met him haha, a third fan chimed in. I really hope he's doing well nowadays, he looks a bit better, another follower shared. Bam is cool when hes sober. Hope he stays like that, another fan agreed. According to TMZ, the meaning behind the tattoo is in reference to the Florida Shuffle, which is a term that describes substance users with good health insurance in Florida. They have frequently shuffled around to various rehab centers that charge their insurance for their stay. Bam Margera Compares His Rehab Situation To Britney's Conservatorship MEGA Although Bam has not been placed under a conservatorship like Britney Spears was, Bam alleges that their situations are similar. Britney was placed under a conservatorship from February 2008 to November 2021, when it was struck down by a judge after approximately 13 years. Bam, meanwhile, claims that his interventionalist is actually profiting by keeping him in rehab, as per the outlet. According to them, Bam claims that he has done "the Guinness Book of World Records of longest Florida shuffle of nearly 2 years" and claimed that 10 back-to-back stays in rehab have cost over $660,000. MEGA Earlier this year, Bam also compared himself to the Princess of Pop, calling himself the Britney Spears of Jack--- while working on a stand-up comedy routine with Steve-O earlier this year. He has been celebrating being one month sober after getting out of rehab and has been spending time with his girlfriend, Dannii, on a farm outside Philadelphia. He has been focusing on skateboarding and has been losing weight amid his sobriety. Its been reported that his friends have been nothing but supportive of him and are hoping for the best. Nicole Boyd And Bam Margera Have Gone Their Separate Ways Instagram In March 2023, Bams wife Nicole Boyd filed for legal separation, alleging that his drinking problems were the primary reason for the split. In the court filing, she stated that she was concerned about how his intoxication could be harmful to their child, Phoenix. At the time, Nicole noted that it was a hard choice to end their 10-year-long marriage, but felt that it was necessary to protect herself and her son. Although he has been in and out of rehab facilities since 2018, Nicole waited until 2021 to seek full custody of their five-year-old son after Bam relapsed several times. Instagram In August 2023, Bam was arrested for public intoxication and improper behavior after law enforcement officials found him arguing loudly with a woman outside of a hotel at 4:30 in the morning. Officers who arrived on the scene noted in their report that he was off balance, had slurred speech, and smelled of alcohol. Although he was arrested, Bam was bailed out by a close friend after it was clear that he had not injured the woman he was arguing with in any way. However, after the incident, a court did award Nicole Boyd temporary custody of their child, Phoenix. The former couple is expected to be back in court in a few months. The Blue Eye Samurai Season 1 Netflix release date is right around the corner, and viewers are wondering when they can start streaming the TV series. Set in 17th-century Edo-period Japan, Amber Noizumi and Michael Green have co-created Blue Eye Samurai. It is a classic Japanese tale of revenge and follows Mizu, a mixed-race master of the sword, living in disguise to seek vengeance. Heres when the show is coming out on Netflix. When is the Blue Eye Samurai Netflix release date? The Blue Eye Samurai Netflix release date is Friday, November 3, 2023. This animated series follows Mizu, who seeks out four white men who were in Japan when she was born and plans to kill them. One of these men might be her father and Mizu seeks revenge on him for making her a creature of shame. In her journey, Mizu will face many challenges as she is up against the misogynistic society of samurais. This highly-anticipated anime series is a collaboration between Netflix Animation and French studio Blue Spirit. Jane Wu, known for her work in Guardians of the Galaxy and Mulan, serves as the supervising director and producer of the film. The Blue Eye Samurais cast has some of the most notable names. These include Maya Erskine, George Takei, Masi Oka, Randall Park, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Brenda Song, Darren Barnet, Stephanie Hsu, Ming-Na Wen, Harry Shum Jr., and Mark Dacascos, among others. When is Blue Eye Samurai coming out via streaming? Blue Eye Samurai will be available to watch via streaming on Netflix on November 3, 2023. Viewers will be able to stream it at this time. Current Netflix subscribers will be able to watch the series when it airs. Blue Eye Samurais official synopsis reads: A mixed-race master of the sword ives a life in disguise while seeking revenge in Edo-period Japan. The Japanese sci-fi drama Alice in Borderland is returning for a third season on Netflix. Per The Hollywood Reporter, Netflix TV Noah Dominguez 3 hours ago Were lucky to live in an era where we can see a new film from Hayao Miyazaki. The 82-year-old Japanese Movies Jonathan Sim 14 hours ago Night of the Hunted Trailer Previews New Shudder Horror Movie The first official Night of the Hunted trailer is out, previewing the upcoming Shudder Original Film starring Camille Rowe. Who Movies Anthony Nash 14 hours ago Dianne Wiest Won't Be Reprising Role in Mayor of Kingstown Season 3 Following the renewal announcement of Mayor of Kingstown, Deadline brings word that Emmy-winning actress Dianne Wiest will exit her regular TV Maggie Dela Paz 14 hours ago The post Blue Eye Samurai Season 1 Streaming Release Date: When Is It Coming Out on Netflix? appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More. Mark Debarr, 66, was found approximately 120 feet below the Waipoo Falls and was pronounced dead at the scene Facebook; Jon G. Fuller/VW Pics/Universal Images Group via Getty Images Mark DeBarr; Waipo'o Falls in Kokee State Park A California man has died after falling near a waterfall while vacationing in Hawaii just days after celebrating his wedding anniversary. The man, identified by authorities as 66-year-old Mark Debarr of California, fell off the trail Friday while hiking near Waipoo Falls in Kokee, according to a news release from the Kauai Police Department. Crews eventually located the victim approximately 120 feet below the Waipoo Falls. He was pronounced dead at the scene. "Personnel with the Kauai Police Department, Kauai Fire Department, including firefighters with the Waimea fire station, Air 1, Rescue 3, and the on-duty Battalion Chief, assisted in recovering the victim," police said. Authorities do not believe Mr. DeBarrs death is the result of foul play. "Volunteers with Lifes Bridges, a grief counseling service, and (VASK), a nonprofit that provides emergency needs for visitors, are assisting the victims family," they added. Related: Woman Dies After Falling 150 Feet Off Cliff in North Carolina: 'My Heart Is Broken,' Husband Says DeBarr was an accounting professional and father of two, The New York Post reported. He and his wife Maureen celebrated their anniversary on Sept. 18, according to a post on his Facebook page. DeBarr was on vacation with his family when the tragic accident occurred in Hawaii, according to a tribute shared on Facebook by Doug Brooker, who said he and DeBarr were best friends for 48 years. 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. Facebook Mark Debarr This will leave a huge hole in the lives of all who knew Mark, Brooker wrote, noting that his late friend was an amazing guy and loved by so many. Rest well Mark, the friend added. You were one of a kind and will be so missed. Related: British Family Works to Bring Body of 74-Year-Old Father Home After He Died During Trip to Hawaii Multiple California residents have died in Hawaii this year, including at least three people in June, according to SFGATE. Among them is a 77-year-old woman who drowned while snorkeling in a lagoon at Poipu Beach. Related: 'Incredible' Okla. Firefighter and Dad Who Survived Stage 4 Cancer Dies in Rock Climbing Accident A 49-year-old San Jose man also died in June following an incident while snorkeling. He was reportedly on his honeymoon at the time, per SFGATE. That same month, a 37-year-old Sonoma resident was found unresponsive while swimming at Tunnels Beach during a family trip. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Advanced Drainage Systems plans to build a new headquarters in Hilliard's new TruePointe development. Advanced Drainage Systems will move its headquarters into the new TruePointe development in Hilliard, part of a larger expansion for the stormwater management and equipment company. ADS plans to relocate 250 workers from its two current corporate offices, the main one across Trueman Boulevard from TruePointe, and a smaller office in Mill Run in Hilliard. The company's 75,000-square-foot lease in a new building at TruePointe is one of central Ohio's largest new office leases in recent years. Our new headquarters will facilitate ADS growth, as well as the development of products designed to capture, convey, store and treat our most precious resource: water, said ADS President and CEO Scott Barbour in a news release announcing the move. The announcement comes as ADS continues construction of its 110,000-square-foot Engineering and Technology Center on a 17-acre site at Lyman Drive. The center, which the company bills as the most advanced stormwater engineering center in the world, is expected to open the middle of next year. In consolidating our corporate headquarters at TruePointe, and with the ADS Engineering and Technology Center nearby, our commitment to the City of Hilliard and Ohio continues," Barbour said in the news release. Work has begun on TruePointe mixed-use development on Interstate 270 south of Davidson Road in Hilliard. ADS's headquarters will help anchor TruePointe, a $200-million development on 26 acres along Interstate 270 in Hilliard launched early this year by the Hilliard-based developer Equity. ADS's lease is the fourth lease for new office space in central Ohio over 70,000 square feet in the past two years, said Matt Gregory, a managing director with NAI Ohio Equities commercial real estate firm. Each year, about 10 new office leases over 30,000 square feet are signed in central Ohio, he said. When completed, TruePointe is expected to include 15 buildings including 300,000 square feet of offices, 359 apartments, a 108-room hotel, 42,000 square feet of restaurants and shops and two parking garages. The campus will also feature walking trails, a six-acre lake and a dog park. Story continues We are thrilled that ADS, a staple in Hilliard for so long, will become the first anchor tenant in this transformative new space, said Equity CEO Steve Wathen in a news release. ADS expects to move into TruePointe in 2025, when the first buildings are completed. jweiker@dispatch.com @JimWeiker This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: TruePointe development in Hilliard signs major anchor tenant In more news emerging from Spains San Sebastian Festival, Clara Larrains Clara Films has boarded Lucia Lalors docu-fiction hybrid Mam from Argentinas Gale Cine. Described as a thought-provoking autobiographical hybrid documentary that explores how it is to grow up with a ghost mother, it follows a millennial in her thirties and her fantasies about her dead mother. More from Variety Said Larrain, whose company is taking a minority stake in the project: Lucia Lalors storytelling is both powerful and profound, and we are proud to support her vision of portraying not only her own journey, but the imagery of a generation, adding: This partnership underscores our commitment to fostering diversity and originality in cinema. We are honored to collaborate with Clara Films on Mam, said Luis Bustamante, CEO at Gale Cine. Lucia Lalor is a remarkable talent and her project resonates deeply with our mission to bring impactful stories to the forefront of cinema, he added. With the film currently in a financing phase, the companies are aiming to start principal photography by the first semester of 2024. More info on casting and release dates are forthcoming. Lucia Lalor: I am thrilled to have Clara Films and Gale Cine on board as co-producers for this project. Their dedication to storytelling aligns perfectly with the themes and vision of Mam. Together, we are working to create a film that will defy genre boundaries between found footage, animation and traditional narratives. Among Gale Cines most recent productions are short films Soy tan feliz and Presente imperfecto (both of them selected at Cannes short films competition), Refugiado (which played at the 46th Cannes Directors Fortnight) and Camila saldra esta noche, screen at the 69th San Sebastian International Film Festival. Clara Films credits include: White is for Virgins, available on HBO Max, Atacama and HomoNova. Aullido de invierno by Matias Rojas premieres this year. Its also behind What Was Left Unsaid by Ricardo Valenzuela (FFA Production 2021); The Ivy (La Hiedra) by Ecuadors Ana Cristina Barragan (backed by Ikusmira Berriak, Cinemart, Ibermedia); You Tell Me by Jacqueline Pepall and Detras del mar by Paula Romani (FFA Production 2023). Last June, Clara Films and Barcelona-based VFX studio Unbound Hub forged a strategic development pact for the upcoming dystopian TV series, Numana, which participated at Conecta Fictions High End Pitch session, held in Toledo, Spain. 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. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie took time during the second GOP primary debate on Wednesday to directly address Donald Trump in absentia, eviscerating him with the nickname Donald Duck for continuing to pass on debate participation. The second Republican presidential debate took place at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, on Wednesday night, hosted by Fox Business Network. Former president and current GOP frontrunner Donald Trump was not present, sticking with his trend of snubbing debate programming while running with a comfortable lead against his competitors in the polls. Christie was speaking on bringing law and order back to this country, when he pivoted to addressing Trump via debate camera. Donald Trump should be here to answer for that. But hes not, Christie, said. The former New Jersey governor said, I want to look at that camera right now. Tell you, Donald, I know youre watching. You cant help yourself. I know youre watching Youre not here tonight, not because of polls and not because of your indictments. Youre not here tonight because youre afraid of being on the stage and defending your record. Youre ducking these things. Let me tell you whats going to happen. You keep doing that. No one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore. Were going to call you Donald Duck, Christie concluded to a mixed response from the live audience. The post Chris Christie Eviscerates Trump as Donald Duck for Skipping Debates: I Know Youre Watching appeared first on TheWrap. Costco is the wholesale retail store known for selling just about anything, from rotisserie chickens to brand new electronics, at a bargain price. Now, the wholesaler has added an unexpected item to its inventory: gold bars. Yes, the bargain brand is currently selling one-ounce gold PAMP Suisse Lady Fortuna Veriscan bars for nearly $2,000. On 26 September, Costco chief financial officer Richard Galanti announced in a quarterly earnings call that the gold bars are selling fast too. Ive gotten a couple of calls that people have seen online that weve been selling one-ounce gold bars, he said, according to CNBC. Yes, but when we load them on the site, theyre typically gone within a few hours and we limit two per member. The 24-karat gold bars can indeed be purchased online but theyre only reserved for customers with a Costco membership, which can cost from $60 to $120 a year. The retailer is also limiting the number of gold bars to two per membership, and the item is non-refundable. According to the Costco website, the one-ounce bars from South Africas Rand Refinery are selling for the whopping price of $1,949.99, while the gold bars from Swiss supplier PAMP Suisse cost $1,979.99. Costco has long held the well-deserved reputation as bargain shoppers favourite store, mainly for its affordable prices and free samples. Plus, the company recently raised its minimum wage to $16 for workers in the US. In 2021, an employee named Natalie went viral on TikTok when she revealed just how much she makes per hour while working at Costco. When you make $29.50 just to draw smiley faces on receipts, said Natalie in the video. Some TikTok users said that Natalies pay was more than that of many other jobs, including healthcare workers. Maam I am a nurse and you make more than I did at my staff job, one person commented. Costco is one of the few places one can earn a living wage. This should be the rule, not the exception, another user wrote. Not only did Natalie reveal that she makes much higher than the federal minimum wage in the US, which is $7.25 per hour, but she also reminded people about the joy of receiving a smiley face stamp from a Costco employee when checking a shoppers receipt. Earlier this year, another employee went viral on TikTok when she explained how her life has improved after quitting her teaching job to work at Costco. Everything is better, she said in the viral TikTok. I cant believe that I ever felt so limited, that I ever thought I couldnt do something else. I am better now than I have been in my livable memory. The Costco employee also emphasised how much her professional life has improved, despite the fact that she doesnt have winter or summer breaks like she did as a teacher. This is my first year not having a winter break. I do not miss it at all, she wrote in the TikTok caption. My pace of my work life now is so much better, I am not sick or exhausted like I used to be when I was a teacher. Danny Masterson and estranged wife Bijou Phillips arrive for closing arguments in his second rape trial on May 16, 2023, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello) Danny Masterson is behind bars, but his legal woes are far from over. As the That '70s Show star, 47, sits in a California prison for raping two women, there's been a new ruling in a civil case against him and Scientology. Plus, a probation officer's report prior to sentencing has been published that sheds new light into Masterson's income. And there's also new information about why wife Bijou Phillips filed for divorce soon after his sentencing. Here's the latest. Date set for Masterson, Scientology harassment trial All three women involved in the criminal case are also involved in a civil lawsuit. In 2019, they sued Masterson and the Church of Scientology, claiming they were repeatedly harassed and threatened. One woman alleged her dog was poisoned as an intimidation tactic. Both Masterson and the church deny the allegations. That case had been paused while Masterson faced a criminal trial. In a 10-minute hearing on Wednesday in Los Angeles, a judge lifted the long stay on the harassment case now that Masterson has been sentenced to 30 years to life. (That means, the civil case can go forward.) As of now, trial is set for Sept. 22, 2025. Deadline reports court backlogs and an expected flood of discovery filings are a few reasons why the trial is two years out. Masterson and the church made repeated, unsuccessful attempts to get the case dismissed. Bijou Phillips reportedly ended marriage to Masterson over financial concerns Legal experts have speculated that Phillips, who very publicly supported the actor in court during both his trials, filed for divorce to protect her assets. Us Weekly, citing anonymous sources, is now reporting as much, saying Phillips was financially motivated to end the nearly 12-year marriage. "This experience has been devastating and humiliating for Bijou," one unnamed insider told the publication. "She's focused on being a mom and preserving her future no matter what." Phillips filed for divorce last week. Despite what her legal paperwork suggested, the actress's lawyer confirmed she and Masterson had been living together, not apart for five years, prior to his conviction. Masterson's primary source of income is from "grapes and wine" farm Before Masterson was sentenced to decades behind bars, his interim probation officer prepared a document that recommended state prison. The Underground Bunker, a blog run by noted Scientology critic Tony Ortega, obtained the full report that contained many interesting tidbits as the officer met with Masterson on Aug. 31 at the Los Angeles County men's jail. Masterson said he stopped working as an actor in 2018, which is one year after the LAPD confirmed they were investigating the star for multiple sexual assaults. He and Phillips moved to Santa Ynez, Calif., where he started a farm that "produces grapes and wine." His income was listed as "stable," with the "farm" as the primary source. "Acting residuals" was a secondary income source, but his total assets were "undetermined." (This is something Masterson's victims likely want to know given possible restitution and civil damages.) "[Masterson] related he earns income from his farm and he receives residuals from his time working as an actor," the officer wrote. "He was unable to provide exact figures regarding his major assets and liability. He reported his financial status is stable, and he continues to provide financial support for his family." Masterson's "statement" The actor declined to testify in his own defense at either trial. He didn't speak during sentencing. Although he's maintained his innocence via his lawyers, the probation report includes the "defendant's statement," which gives some insight into his frame of mind in the weeks leading up to sentencing. "The defendant related his primary concern is the impact the current matter has had upon his family. He noted his wife [redacted] and he desires to be with her to help raise their child," the officer wrote. Here is the probation officer's full evaluation: The defendant is a 47-year-old male with no known prior criminal record. In the current matter, he has been convicted of raping two female victims. According to statements by victim Jane Doe #1, the defendant used force and violence upon her and choked her until she became unconscious. It should also be noted both victims believe they were drugged by the defendant and became unconscious prior to being raped. The allegations made by the victims are troubling and warrant concern for public safety. It appears the defendant violated the victims' trust and likely caused them to suffer severe emotional damage. The defendant must be held accountable for his actions, and sanctions should be ordered to protect the community. To the defendants credit, he has no prior record of criminal conduct, strong community ties, and a stable lifestyle. In addition, he provided numerous reference letters regarding his good character. Nevertheless, as charged, the defendant is ineligible for probation. Furthermore, the defendant is viewed as unsuitable for probation based upon the severity of the current offense, the vulnerability of the victims, and the potential threat to the public safety. The officer recommended Masterson be sentenced to state prison and that "the court order the defendant pay a restitution fine." Masterson was ultimately sentenced to 30-years-to-life in prison. Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin tore into the House GOPs priorities at the first hearing on Thursday, reminding them that were 62 hours away from shutting down the government of the United States Drew Angerer/Getty Chairman of the House Oversight Committee Rep. James Comer (R-KY) (R) looks on as Ranking Member Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) delivers remarks during a Committee hearing titled "The Basis for an Impeachment Inquiry of President Joseph R. Biden, Jr." On the first day of the Republican-led inquiry into a potential impeachment of President Joe Biden, one of the party's own witnesses said that as it stands now, there isn't enough evidence to impeach. In the Thursday hearing, led by the House Oversight Committee, Republicans called George Washington University law professor Jonathan Turley to serve as a witness, who said in an opening statement that he doesn't believe impeachment articles against Biden are warranted based on current evidence. "I want to emphasize what it is that we're here today for," Turley said, as reported by ABC News. "This is a question of an impeachment inquiry. It is not a vote on articles of impeachment. In fact, I do not believe that the current evidence would support articles of impeachment. That is something that inquiry has to establish." Related: House Speaker Kevin McCarthy Announces Impeachment Inquiry into President Joe Biden University of North Carolina law professor Michael Gerhardt, a witness called by Democrats, echoed those concerns, saying, "There is not, at least not that I've yet heard, such credible evidence." "Let me give you an example of what I fear is similar to the current proceedings: Hunter Biden is arrested for speeding in a car owned by his father, and the police go after the father," Gerhardt said. "I don't think that's how the law should work. I don't think that's how impeachment should work." Anna Moneymaker/Getty House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced the launch of an impeachment inquiry into President Biden on Sept. 12, 2023 Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced on Sept. 12 that his party would be launching an impeachment inquiry into Biden, accusing the president of using "his official office to coordinate with" his son Hunter Biden's various business dealings. Hunter is already under federal investigation for alleged tax crimes related to his foreign business interests, though his father has not been implicated. The move comes despite that the Republican Party has not unveiled any evidence of corruption by Biden himself, and also comes at a crucial time for the party, which has not been able to come to a consensus on averting a government shutdown. Related: Senate Republicans Slam House GOPs Impeachment Inquiry into Biden: It Cant Become Routine Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin, the ranking member of the House Oversight Committee, tore into the House GOPs priorities at Thursday's impeachment hearing, reminding them that were 62 hours away from shutting down the government of the United States of America." Raskin added that the inquiry is occurring both when the focus should be on the shutdown and as Republicans "dont have a shred of evidence against President Biden." "Do you think Im being harsh? Heres what some Republicans had to say over the last week about the actions of the Republicans, Raskin said, then displaying a collection of quotes from various Republicans who have openly admitted that they've been unable to find any evidence of corruption by Biden. "If Republicans had a smoking gun or even a dripping water pistol, they would be presenting it today. Theyve got nothing on President Joe Biden," Raskin added. Related: Sen. Bob Menendez, Wife Charged with Bribery After Allegedly Accepting 'Cash, Gold, a Luxury Vehicle' and More Chip Somodevilla / Staff/Getty Images President Joe Biden, who is the subject of an impeachment inquiry led by House Republicans Polls suggest that a majority of American voters oppose an impeachment inquiry into Biden. An NBC News poll published this week shows that 56% of registered voters say Congress should not hold impeachment hearings against Biden, while 39% say it should. While some House Republicans say that a special impeachment inquiry would allow them to obtain evidence of criminal behavior by Biden and his family, the Republican-controlled House Oversight Committee was already unsuccessful in doing so, even after reviewing 12,000 pages of subpoenaed bank records as well as interviews with two of Hunter Bidens business partners. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer. If impeached, Biden would almost certainly be acquitted by the Senate, which is controlled by Democrats. The move toward impeachment is seen largely as ceremonial (and, some critics say, retaliatory for Donald Trump's impeachments). For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Speaking with PEOPLE, the Boston newlyweds relive their intense mission and reveal their wedding photos The Fashion Wedding by Daniela Rettore Magda Mazri and Donato Frattaroli (left) made it to their Italian wedding despite dog Chickie (right) eating the groom's passport A Boston couple's destination wedding in Italy almost didn't happen after their dog chewed up the groom's passport but thanks to their quick thinking, the celebration took place as planned! The crisis began with Donato Frattaroli and Magda Mazri's beloved golden retriever Chickie chowing down on the groom's passport at their Massachusetts home mere days before their Aug. 31 wedding in Lake Garda, Italy. Its hard to describe," Donato, 36, says of his mindset when he first saw the shredded, wet passport. "Its not like all the joy left me, but it was definitely panic. Typically, Im pretty organized and keep my stuff locked up. Im not one of those who loses or misplaces things. And the one time I didnt..." Bride Magda, 25, laughs and says the roles were switched in that moment, because Donato is generally the calm, methodical one in the relationship. It's the quality that drew her to the restaurateur in the first place. Related: She Stole Her Sisters Date as a Teen. Now Couple Is Celebrating Their 70th Wedding Anniversary After college, she began bartending at his Victory Point restaurant when some mutual friends recommended her for the job. Although that was five years ago, the duo didn't start dating until after she left to start another job three years ago. The first thing that stands out about him is his composure and ability to command a room, Magda says. So when this happened I thought, What would Donato do in this situation? We discovered we were a good team. The Fashion Wedding by Daniela Rettore Magda Mazri and Donato Frattaroli at their wedding in Lake Garda, Italy, on Aug. 31 Still, It was a very stressful week," Magda says of the rush to replace her then-fiance's passport. The couple quickly checked the U.S. State Department's passport website, which states that you can get a same-day passport if you have proof of travel within 14 days. The hitch? It's contingent upon securing an appointment and there were no appointments available. So yes, we had proof of travel, but getting an actual appointment in Boston was pretty much impossible, Magda says. The closest we could find was in Atlanta, and that was going to be on the Thursday before we left for Italy, so that wasnt really an option. Related: Couple Whips Up Wedding in a Week After Groom's Mom Received Stage 4 Cancer Diagnosis (Exclusive) The earliest appointment was in El Paso, Texas, and Donato was willing to make the trip. There was Plan A, with Plan B being Plan A and Plan C being Plan A, which was Im getting myself to Italy one way or another, Donato says. Do you have a sweet story the world needs to know? Send the details to love@people.com for a chance to be featured in Real-Life Love, People.com's series dedicated to sharing extraordinary connections and heartfelt gestures. A resourceful bride on a mission, Magda reached out to local officials, who put her in contact with U.S. Sen. Edward Markey and Rep. Stephen Lynch of Massachusetts. They were able to get an appointment in Boston a week later. The Fashion Wedding by Daniela Rettore Magda Mazri and Donato Frattaroli after saying "I do" at their wedding in Lake Garda, Italy, on Aug. 31 It made Donatos life very easy because he was willing to go almost anywhere in the country to get a passport, Magda says. I know people who waited six months to get an expedited passport. The couple had always planned on having a destination wedding. Donato still has family in Italy, while Magda is half-Italian and has family in Morocco. Plans had been in the works for 18 months, with trips back and forth to secure the perfect venue at Lake Garda and plan the details. Related: Inside the Special Report That Led to News Anchors Surprise On-Camera Proposal: 'Speechless' Then the pooch who turns 2 in November almost derailed it all. She just didnt want us to leave. Shes very attached to her parents, Magda says. We wanted to bring her, but it was too much for her. So we had to leave her and she wasnt happy about it. A few years ago, Magda had a 13-year-old dog that passed away, but just prior to that, Chickie came into their lives. She and Donatos brother had joked about getting him a dog for Valentines Day but didnt do it. Later, they thought they should surprise him with a dog. We went out looking for dogs and ended up bringing her home to Donato and naming her Chicken Cutlet, Magda says of the dog's original name. The reason behind that is my favorite thing Magda makes is chicken cutlets and [the dog] was golden, adds Donato. The Fashion Wedding by Daniela Rettore Dog Chickie had a prominent place on the wedding cake Unbeknownst to Chickie, she was always going to be part of the Italian ceremony, even if it was just in spirit. I had ordered a little miniature Chickie to be put on the cake because shes always a part of our lives, Magda says. Related: Woman Spent Husbands Final Months Creating Wonderful Memories. His Last Words Were I Love You (Exclusive) Looking back on Chickie's passport ordeal, the couple says it gave them perspective during a complicated trip home after their honeymoon in France. The Fashion Wedding by Daniela Rettore Magda Mazri and Donato Frattaroli at their wedding in Lake Garda, Italy, on Aug. 31. They missed their connecting flight from New York to Boston, then found out the flight from New York to Boston was canceled due to weather. When they arrived in New York, there were no flights and no cars to rent. So they took Amtrak from Penn Station to Boston. The first test for us was how to get to the wedding and the second was how do we get back? says Magda. We have learned to pivot. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SheKnows may receive an affiliate commission. Now that New York Supreme Court Judge Arthur Engoron sided with state Attorney General Letitia James that Donald Trump and the Trump Organization committed decades of business fraud, the former president might be facing the end of his Manhattan real estate empire. The business mogul boasted for years about having his name emblazoned on the sides of major properties in the Big Apple, and its something The View host, and former White House Director of Strategic Communications, Alyssa Farah Griffin thinks will affect him tremendously if he loses his prized possessions. More from SheKnows Griffin, who is now an outspoken critic of her former boss, shared her thoughts on how he will react to the quite dire situation. This is how crazy it is. He inflated the value of Mar-A-Lago, his club down in Florida by 2,300 percent. That would be like me saying that my two-bedroom apartment is like a multi for penthouse and then trying to get a line of credit off of it. Its insanity! An average person would be in jail for doing it, she explained on Wednesdays episode of The View. Alyssa Farrah Griffin arriving to the White House Correspondents Dinner held at the Washington Hilton Hotel on April 29, 2023 in Washington D.C. She believes that his ego is going to take a massive hit if hes forced to sell his beloved 5th Avenue building with the iconic Tiffanys store on street level. Heres the thing, like because I do know the man decently well, he thinks that being a loser or being poor or struggling financially, those are the absolute worst things. He never learned that playground lesson we did, that winning isnt everything, she added I honestly think seeing the same Trump Tower taken off of Fifth Avenue would be more devastating to him than sitting in a prison cell because it says unequivocally, he is a loser in the place he always wanted to be. American Castle: One Hundred Years of Mar-a-Lago Click here to read the full article. Price: $29.99 Buy On Amazon Prison doesnt sound like a fun place to be, but Griffin knows how important it is for him to maintain appearances, especially in elite social circles. Engoron hasnt ruled on what Donald Trump needs to do with his assets at this point, but the upcoming trial could result in further fines for him, Donald Jr. and Eric Trump . The price of doing business may get very expensive for the former president. Before you go, click here to see the biggest presidential scandals in US History. Hillary Clinton, Bill Clinton Launch Gallery: Trump's Mugshot Has Been Released & Tons of Merch Is Already Available to Buy Online Best of SheKnows Sign up for SheKnows' Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The Girl Scouts are knocking on a new door. Sun King will offer a Samoa cookie-inspired beer called Scout Badge on Friday, Sept. 29 while supplies last, the Indianapolis-based brewery announced on social media Tuesday. Fountain Square loses an eatery: Three Carrots vegan restaurant to close Sunday, Oct. 1 Scout Badge is a porter brewed with dark malted barley featuring flavors of rich chocolate, gooey caramel and a tropical burst of coconut, according to Sun Kings Facebook post. In the comments section of the post, Sun King says that the batch contains 300 pounds of Samoa cookies. Sun King marketing and promotions director Beth Belange, who was a Girl Scout, said Scout Badge is the first beer officially licensed by the Girl Scouts. The porter has been in development for years and the lead brewer, Kelly Laut, was also a Girl Scout. "With Scout Badge, we can use the power of Sun King to spread the mission of the Girl Scouts and girl empowerment," Belange said. The porter is part of a collaboration between Sun King and the Girl Scouts of Central Indiana. For every four-pack of Scout Badge sold at the downtown location Friday, Sun King said it will donate $1 to the Girl Scouts. Contact dining and drinks reporter Bradley Hohulin at bhohulin@gannett.com. You can also follow him on Twitter @bradleyhohulin. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Sun King partners with Girl Scouts of Central Indiana for cookie beer LOS ANGELES, September 28, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--HRC Fertility Center, one of the largest providers of advanced fertility treatments based in Southern California, today announced the addition of Sasha Hakman, MD and Sahar Wertheimer, MD, to its team of award-winning physicians. Effective immediately, Dr. Hakman and Dr. Wertheimer, both highly sought-after Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility Specialists, have joined the centers West Los Angeles office. Dr. Hakman has a longstanding family and personal history of infertility and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Her experience as both a doctor and a patient who has successfully undergone IVF aligns effortlessly with HRCs mission to provide extraordinary patient care. Dr. Hakman is a subject matter expert for the American Board of OB-GYN, and serves as HRC Fertilitys baby center medical advisor. She is responsible for reviewing all published consumer-facing content about pregnancy and fertility. Dr. Hakman has received numerous research awards across prominent conferences around the U.S. As an outspoken advocate for women, Dr. Wertheimer is highly engaged with the Jewish Orthodox Women in Medicine Association, where she serves as president. She is passionate about increasing access to education in the community and the overall awareness of womens health, fertility and self-advocacy. Her 360-degree holistic approach encompasses several phases, including preconception wellness, fertility and conception support, pregnancy, and postpartum care sometimes even incorporating Eastern medicine, where possible and beneficial. Dr. Wertheimer is the proud recipient of numerous awards, such as the Jewish Orthodox Women in Medicine Associations Excellence in Leadership and The Davidoff Teaching Award (while in residency). As a notable thought leader in the industry, she recently contributed to HRC Fertilitys #Fertility Facts vs. Fiction campaign to debunk the misconceptions that Gen Z and Millennials are hearing about fertility on social media. Story continues "At HRC, our team is composed of smart, out-of-the-box thinkers that are constantly on the hunt to discover new ways to offer the best possible care for our patients," said Tamar Knoller, Executive Director of Patient Experience at HRC Fertility Center. "With Dr. Hakman and Dr. Wertheimer on board, we are confident that we are bringing together an undeniable combination of intelligence, experience, empathy, and passion, which is bound to have great outcomes for our patients." To learn more about HRC Fertility and its payment plans or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hakman, Dr. Wertheimer, or another of the centers award-winning doctors, please visit www.HavingBabies.com. About HRC Fertility Center HRC Fertility is one of the largest providers of advanced fertility treatments in Southern California, boasting 10 locations across Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and San Diego Counties. Welcoming individuals, couples, and families from all walks of life, HRC Fertility is dedicated to helping them expand their families. The company was recently recognized on Newsweek's America's Best Fertility Clinics 2023 list. For detailed information about HRC Fertilitys services, locations, and providers, please visit www.HavingBabies.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928248419/en/ Contacts Caroline Kamerschen PRforHRCFertility@bospar.com Prepare for a rush of sugar, serotonin and Paul Hollywood handshakes. "The Great British Baking Show" is returning for its 11th season with some familiar faces and plenty of new ones, too. "The iconic white tent is ready to welcome the 12 newest amateur bakers as they whip, pipe, and proof their way through the competition," said Netflix in a news release. "So grab your apron and check for any soggy bottoms, because its time to take the newest culinary adventure out of the oven." The show puts the contestants' baking skills to the test in a series of challenges that range from bread and puddings to complex cakes and of course, show-stoppers. One contestant is eliminated each week, and the winner is selected from the top three bakers who reach the finale. Here's everything you need to know about the new season: 'Golden Bachelor' premiere recap: Gerry Turner brings the smooches, unbridled joy and drama Queen Elizabeth II receives a birthday cake from Nadiya Hussain, winner of the Great British Bake Off, during her 90th Birthday Walkabout on April 21, 2016 in Windsor. When does 'The Great British Baking Show' come out? Season 11 premiere date The show is set to premiere on Friday, two days after it aired in the United Kingdom, where it is known as "The Great British Bake Off". How to watch: Click here for information on a Netflix subscription 'The Great British Baking Show' Season 11 episode schedule New episodes will drop every Friday at 3 a.m. ET on Netflix from Sept. 29 to Dec. 1. Best shows to watch this fall: What's new on TV amid dual writers' and actors' strikes 'The Amazing Race' 2023 premiere: Season 35 cast, start date, time, how to watch Where does 'The Great British Baking Show' Season 11 take place? "The Great British Baking Show" tent is pitched in the grounds of Welford Park, a country house and estate in the village of Welford, approximately 70 miles west of London. Who are the hosts of 'The Great British Baking Show'? The Great British Baking Show judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith with hosts Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond. This year's lineup has a new addition. Judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith will be return to the tent along with host and actor Noel Fielding. Joining them for the first time will be Fielding's new co-host, TV personality Alison Hammond. She's taking over co-hosting duties from comedian and actor Matt Lucas. New co-host, new season! Alison Hammond joins Paul, Prue, and Noel on the new season of The Great British Baking Show, premiering September 29 on Netflix in The US, with new episodes following every Friday! pic.twitter.com/V9IF7x0ofE Netflix (@netflix) September 13, 2023 Secret affair: 'Great British Baking Show' judge Prue Leith details 13-year affair with first husband 'The Great British Baking Show' Season 11 contestants Participants of 'The Great British Baking Show' Season 11. Here's the full list of participants of "The Great British Baking Show 11" including ages and occupations, per the show's official website: Abbi, 27, Vegetable grower and delivery driver Amos, 43, Deli and grocery manager Cristy, 33, Mother and PA Dan, 42, Civil engineering resource planner Dana, 25, Database administrator Josh, 27, Post-doctoral research associate Keith, 60, Chartered accountant Matty, 28, PE and science teacher Nicky, 52, Retired cabin crew and volunteer Rowan, 21, Student Saku, 50, Intelligence analyst Tasha, 27, Participation officer Gordon Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares: Where to watch new season Watch the 'The Great British Baking Show' Season 11 trailer The trailer for "The Great British Baking Show" was released on Aug. 30 by Channel 4, where the show airs in the UK. We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesnt influence our coverage. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'The Great British Baking Show': Season 11 release date, how to watch A source told PEOPLE earlier this month that Hugh Jackman and Deborra-lee Jackman are "devastated" in the wake of their breakup BACKGRID Hugh Jackman in New York City on Sept. 28, 2023 Hugh Jackman is out and about in New York City. On Thursday, Jackman, 54, was seen taking a stroll in Manhattan's Tribeca neighborhood, wearing an orange sweater, dark blue jeans and aviator-style sunglasses. Jackman's sighting comes almost two weeks after he and wife Deborra-lee Jackman announced in an exclusive statement with PEOPLE that they decided to amicably end their marriage after 27 years. The X-Men star has been photographed since he and Deborra-lee, 67, broke the news: once on a solo stroll the day after the announcement, and again on Sept. 18 in the company of his friend and Deadpool 3 costar Ryan Reynolds. Related: Hugh Jackman and Deborra-lee Jackman's Love Story: How They Met and Always Made Time for Each Other BACKGRID Hugh Jackman in New York City on Sept. 28, 2023 "We have been blessed to share almost 3 decades together as husband and wife in a wonderful, loving marriage," said Jackman and Deborra-lee who share son Oscar, 23, and daughter Ava, 18 i in their statement. "Our journey now is shifting and we have decided to separate to pursue our individual growth," they wrote in a statement. "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." 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 statement, signed Deb and Hugh Jackman," concluded: "This is the sole statement either of us will make." In the days following their announcement, a source told PEOPLE that the former couple is "devastated" and that the split is "very hard" for them. "It was not a snap decision they took a lot of time and consideration of everything, and they made this decision together," the source said. "They are going on separate journeys, but they will always be a family. Theyll always be co-parents and best friends." Related: Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Jackman's Sweetest Photos Through the Years Cindy Ord/MG23/Getty Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 01, 2023 "This has nothing to do with anything other than the fact that theyre on different journeys right now," the insider added. Jackman is set to costar with Reynolds, 46, in the upcoming third Deadpool movie for Marvel, in which he will reprise his popular X-Men role as Logan / Wolverine. The movie began filming in London in the days before before Hollywood actors went on strike in July. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. The last decade of Brent Roske's life reads like a movie script. He ran for congress in California, governor in Iowa and managed U.S. Rep. John Delaney and Marianne Williamson's respective 2020 presidential campaign operations in the Hawkeye state. Brent Roske, the Iowa, who created "Diana in Love." But this year, Roske is releasing a movie about Princess Diana, an idea 15 years in the making. "After the pandemic, I just realized that it was now or never and this is the kind of movie that I think people will watch," Roske said, who even used his own 1996 green Jaguar XJ6 as Diana's car in the film. The fictional film is based on real-life events of the late royal and is written, directed and produced by Roske. The plot follows the duchess during a weekend trip to California with two friends from grade school. 'It's certainly not the normal Diana movie,' Iowan says A photo of the green Jaguar that Roske put up for sale to promote "Diana in Love." Roske describes the film as a feel-good, intimate movie. It isn't a typical Hollywood movie with proper pacing or fast edits, and it follows Princess Diana through a lens of joy instead of pain. "It's certainly not the normal Diana movie. Again, she doesn't cry in this movie, but she laughs a lot," Roske said. In the film, Diana and her childhood friends visit the massive Malibu mansion that her boyfriend Dodi Fayed purchased prior to their deaths. The movie stars Shanti Fiennes, the niece of Oscar nominee Ralph Fiennes, as Princess Diana. More: This Iowa couple looks just like Prince Harry and Meghan Markle "This is the kind of movie that I think people will watch under the covers in the middle of the night on their phone," he said. Shanti Fiennes as Princess Diana in "Diana in Love." The film is set during the spring before her shocking death that gripped the world. In the summer of 1997, she died during a car crash in Paris as her driver Henri Paul attempted to escape from paparazzi. Princess Diana, Paul and her romantic partner, Fayed, died in the crash. The movie, which has been submitted for Golden Globes, was mainly filmed in Marina de Rey, California, near Los Angeles with additional scenes in Cairo and Rome. The film also shot scenes locally at Salisbury House and Hoyt Sherman Place. "Diana in Love" premieres Sunday, Oct. 1 on the Flamingo Network on Roku, which is Roske's channel. Jay Stahl is an entertainment reporter at The Des Moines Register. Follow him on Instagram or reach out at jstahl@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: 'Diana in Love' from Iowa producer Brent Roske not 'normal' Diana film The Oscar-winning actress attended the event alongside 'Memory' costars Peter Sarsgaard and Merritt Wever Jessica Chastain is looking chic in Spain! The Molly's Game actress, 46, was at the 71st San Sebastian International Film Festival on Wednesday to promote her new movie, Memory, a drama that also stars Peter Sarsgaard and Merritt Wever. The mom-of-two made a show-stopping entrance at the annual festival held at the Victoria Eugenia Theater, located in the picturesque Basque city. Chastain's strapless Gucci gown featured a sweetheart neckline and dazzling layers of blue and white sequins. She teamed her look with gold platform Aquazzura heels and wore her long hair loose as she took selfies with fans. Juan Naharro Gimenez/WireImage Jessica Chastain dazzled on the red carpet at the 71st San Sebastian International Film Festival in Spain, Sept. 27. Related: Jessica Chastain Wows with Platinum Blonde Hair at the 2023 Met Gala Joining Chastain at the event was Memory director Michael Franco. The new drama which Franco also wrote and produced tells the story of Sylvia (Chastain), a social worker who lives a simple life with her daughter until an encounter with a former classmate has far-reaching consequences for both of them, according to the film's official synopsis. Franco and Chastain recently attended the Toronto International Film Festival to promote Memory. At that event, Franco told IndieWire that some Hollywood industry people had hinted that Chastain may be difficult to work with after her 2022 best actress Oscar win for The Eyes of Tammy Faye. Carlos Alvarez/Getty Jessica Chastain was also kind enough to pose with fans and take selfies Related: Jessica Chastain and Jeremy Strong Dance to Madonna in Hotel Room See the Video! The 44-year-old director, who comes from Mexico City, recalled to the outlet how he was told Chastain may "show up and be a nightmare and be a diva," after she won her Academy Award. I told them, you dont know half of it. Shes the opposite. Shes going to show up satisfied, happy, and be productive," he said. But Chastain who shares a son and daughter with husband Gian Luca Passi de Preposulo, 41, told the the film industry website that nothing could be further from the truth. "Im not doing a movie to be pampered. If I want to be pampered, Ill go to a spa. Im doing a film to work and to be creative, and I dont need to sit by myself in a trailer," she said. 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. Juan Naharro Gimenez/WireImage In Memory, Dopesick actor Sarsgaard stars as Saul, the man who sends Chastain's character's ordinary life into a tailspin. Their surprise encounter will profoundly impact both of them as they open the door to the past, the synopsis adds. Following Memory's premiere at the 80th Venice International Film Festival in early September, Sarsgaard was presented with the award for best actor. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. A decade ago, when Ken Loach was shooting his period drama Jimmys Hall in the northwest of Ireland, rumours spread that it would be the last film hed ever make. The left-wing filmmaker behind Kes, Raining Stones and Riff-Raff, movies that defined the British working-class experience with humour and heart, was in his late seventies. Retirement wouldnt be unexpected, and Loach did little to extinguish the notion. Well, I was sinking in an Irish bog at the time, the 87-year-old reflects today, cutting a studious-looking figure in his glasses and navy jacket. Why am I, a man of mature years, losing my shoes in an Irish bog? After Jimmys Hall, though, Loach found his footwear again, so to speak. He followed it up in 2016 with I, Daniel Blake, a blistering look at the cruel and byzantine UK benefits system and the boom in food banks. It won him a second Palme dOr at the Cannes Film Festival (following 2006s The Wind That Shakes the Barley), putting him in a very rarefied group of directors. Then came 2019s Sorry We Missed You, a heart-wrenching swipe at Britains gig economy. Now, with The Old Oak , hes completed an unofficial trilogy of sorts. And this one may actually be his last film. Another hard-hitting study of Britains underclass, like its two predecessors, The Old Oak takes place in the North East, in a part of County Durham left decimated by pit closures and the miners strike in the 1980s. Or monuments to the destruction of communities, as Loach puts it. Like Liverpool, Manchester and Glasgow, working-class cities hes set many a film in, he felt drawn to the region. Id always wanted to work there, he says. Again scripted by his ever-present collaborator Paul Laverty , the film is largely set around its eponymous run-down pub, run by TJ Ballantyne (Dave Turner). Riddled with unemployment and poverty, the area has also seen an influx of Syrian refugees rehomed there by the government. Paul had read the first story of the Syrians arriving in the North East, Loach says, sitting across from me in a conference room in a Kings Cross office. So it began with Paul and then we talked about it and what ideas we would explore through the collision of the two communities. Gradually, through TJ and Syrian photographer Yara (Ebla Mari), there is a coming together. Compared to the likes of Loachs social services drama Ladybird, Ladybird (1994), or 2002s Sweet Sixteen, his Glasgow-set coming-of-age drama that gave Line of Dutys Martin Compston his first major role, The Old Oak is one of the directors more hopeful films, I tell him. He nods. Hope gives you confidence, despair destroys you. And so there is that hope and it goes back to the strength of the miners strike. Eat together, stick together. The Old Oak isnt the only recent film to tackle the refugee crisis. Agnieszka Hollands Green Border and Matteo Garrones Io Capitano which revolve around Syrian and Senegalese refugees, respectively, seeking shelter in Europe both screened to rave reviews at the Venice Film Festival this month. Is there something in the air? I wasnt aware of the films, but I think theres a broad opposition to the hostile environment, he says. Suella Braverman talking about invasion [the country] being invaded by small boats. He also cites Robert Jenrick, the Minister for Immigration, ordering the painting over of Disney cartoons at a reception centre for the children of asylum seekers. Disgusting man. Who would do that in their own right mind? I better not name anyone or Ill be in trouble and itll hang around my neck. I think people can read between the lines. If Jeremy were to stand, I would certainly vote for him or someone with that background, absolutely How does he feel when he hears of such things? Well, you fight back, he says, bluntly. Its something hes done his whole career. After studying law at Oxford, he began working for the BBC in the Sixties; his 1966 homelessness drama Cathy Come Home hit the headlines, as he modestly puts it so much so that it led to a change in the law, meaning homeless fathers could stay with their wives and children in hostels. Three years later, he made the classic Kes, about a boy and his kestrel, but remained largely confined to television over the next decade. In the Thatcher era, he rubbed the establishment the wrong way, making documentaries like A Question of Leadership, about the 1980 steel strike which came under attack by the Independent Broadcasting Authority for being unbalanced. It was only in the 1990s that he returned to film, winning the Jury Prize in Cannes for 1993s Raining Stones, and shortly afterwards meeting Laverty, the writer who has been a near-constant by his side ever since. But the more visible Loach became, the more open he was to criticism. Those critics have included the Labour Party. Loach has had a turbulent relationship with the party, previously turning in his membership in the Nineties in protest over Tony Blair, then rejoining once it was led by Jeremy Corbyn. But under his leadership, Labour was engulfed by an antisemitism row, with a 2020 report by the UKs equalities commission finding that under Corbyns leadership the party did not do enough to prevent antisemitism and, at worst, could be seen to accept it. In 2021, as part of new leader Keir Starmers crackdown on antisemitism, the party expelled Loach for his support of organisations purged by the party. The Corbyn-supporting groups included Labour Against the Witchhunt, which claimed the antisemitism allegations were politically motivated. Ebla Mari and Dave Turner in Ken Loachs The Old Oak (StudioCanal) Whats changed in the last few years was the political climate, Loach says. Because when Jeremy Corbyn became leader of the Labour Party and a lot of people supported him I was known to support him but then the attacks came, and the right wing attacked him. And they also attacked people who were associated with him. And some people ran for cover, and others stuck with him. That Loach also spoke out about Palestinian rights didnt help, he feels. Put the two together, and theyre going to attack you. In July, Labour shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves was challenged by The Guardians Simon Hattenstone on whether Loachs views automatically make him antisemitic. You dont think Ken Loach is antisemitic? she replied. OK. Well, I think we might have to agree to differ. Asked why she believed Loach to be antisemitic, Reeves said: Look, Im not on the bodies that make these decisions, but I think its right we have a zero-tolerance approach [to antisemitism]. Further asked whether its right to make an accusation without supporting it, Reeves repeated: Well, look, Im not on the body who makes these decisions. Loach claims Labours leadership targeted him as a signal to the establishment and voters to the right. I think they reckon that they get points by attacking me like that, he says. Now the people they are looking to for support theyre not looking to people like me for support, or people on the left or traditional Labour voters. Theyre looking to the establishment. So its good for them to be seen to attack me because the establishment will back them up. Its very distressing, he continues. But I think they rely on that. They want to cause as much political and professional damage as they can and personal distress. They want to take you out, basically. (Labour declined to comment on Loachs statements.) Loach appears with then-Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn at the Miners Gala in Durham in 2017 (Getty Images) Does he hold any hope for Keir Starmer leading Labour to an election victory? Ive no hope for Starmer at all, he says. I mean, I think hes a real political vacuum. There is a political vacuum on the left, because hes moved to within a cigarette paper of the Tories. I mean, the whole 2017 program [by Corbyn] has been wiped out of public discourse. You think what it was; it was public ownership, kicking out the privateers from the health service I think he promised to take energy back into public ownership. Social justice, economic justice. Starmer has, he says, torn up everything he said. Predictably. So Ive no hope. I ask how he will vote at the next election. Personally, I cant vote for Labour and Starmer, he says. I would find the least damaging candidate. And I think therell be one or two who will be less damaging. For sure. An independent candidate? I better not name anyone or Ill be in trouble and itll hang around my neck. I think people can read between the lines. If Jeremy were to stand, I would certainly vote for him or someone with that background, absolutely. For years, the Nuneaton-born Loach has lived in Bath with his wife Lesley, mother to his four grown-up children, including filmmaker Jim Loach. Im kind of lucky, he says. I lead a middle-class life, I suppose, given the business Im in. How does he keep in touch with younger generations? Weve got grandchildren who are in their late teens, mid-twenties now. They and their friends are very bright and aware much more aware than an old octogenarian is of things that are going on, and I look to them for a clue on whats going on in that generation. Even approaching 90, Loach is still engaged he is knowledgeable, for example, on the Barbenheimer phenomenon of early summer. I went to see Oppenheimer because I know Cillian [Murphy, its star]. We worked together [on The Wind That Shakes the Barley]. Hes a lovely man and I have great respect for him. A brilliant actor. Very modest and just normal very easy to work with. And just one of the gang. And Barbie did he see it? No. I didnt treat myself to Barbie! he chuckles. Loach directs a young Martin Compston on the set of 2002s Sweet Sixteen (Shutterstock) Judging from the themes of his films, the soft-spoken Loach seems like he carries the weight of the world on his shoulders. I wonder how he unwinds. Does he watch reality TV? He screws up his face. I cant watch reality TV. He likes Have I Got News for You and Antiques Roadshow. I watch that from time to time, though Im disappointed theres far too many trinkets and war memorabilia, he says. I look for a decent old chair now and then if it comes on. He even made an appearance on the show a few years back he took a pewter ashtray to be assessed. I like seeing enthusiasm for old things. Im curious to know if The Old Oak will truly be his final film, or whether he could do a reversal, like on Jimmys Hall? I mean, I cant see it at the minute, he says. The physical and emotional energy and commitment [required] and just keeping everyone buoyant [is a lot]. And anyway, theres lots to keep him active, he says. Films are a joy. But once youre connected to politics, its hard to avoid taking part. The left has such potential, so many good people. To bring it together if you could contribute to that, thatd be really something worth doing. The Old Oak is in cinemas from 29 September American Horror Story: Delicate is taking no prisoners and Olivia Wilde is its latest target. During a new episode of the FX series, which aired on Wednesday, September 27, Kim Kardashian's character, Siobhan, offered her advice as a publicist to Emma Roberts' character, Anna, after she fainted at an awards show. "We are going to pull a Wilde card. As in Olivia Wilde," Siobhan said, seemingly referencing the Don't Worry Darling press tour. "Don't mention what happened and wait until everyone forgets slash low-key gaslight the people that do ask and make them think that they're the problem. Because, you know, sexism." Don't Worry Darling, which was directed by Wilde, 39, was released in theaters in September 2022. Whilehe film originally sparked interest due to its mysterious plot, the offscreen drama caused even more commotion. Reports surfaced before the films debut that lead actress Florence Pugh had issues with Wilde, 39, due to relationship with male lead Harry Styles. (Wilde and Styles, 29, dated from January 2021 to November 2022.) American Horror Story Cast Guide: Whos Been on Which Season? Pugh, 27, initially decided to opt out of doing press at the 2022 Venice Film Festival due to her Dune 2 filming commitments but she showed up in Italy at the last minute. She skipped interviews, later reuniting with her costars on the red carpet. Alessandra Benedetti - Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images Wilde attempted to shut down rumors of a rift, telling reporters at the time, "Florence is a force, and we are so grateful that she's able to make it tonight despite being in production on Dune. I know, as a director, how disruptive it is to lose an actor even for a day, so I'm very grateful to her, to [Dune director] Denis Villeneuve for helping us. And we're really thrilled we'll get to celebrate her work tonight. I can't say enough how honored I am to have her as our lead. She's amazing in the film." Everything Olivia Wilde, Shia LaBeouf, Cast Have Said About Dont Worry Darling Drama A source exclusively told Us Weekly that the duo were keeping their distance amid the promotional tour, adding, "Florence and Olivia have had several disagreements personally and professionally, that's why Florence isn't doing any press for the movie." Earlier this year, Pugh declined to discuss the "media frenzy" surrounding Don't Worry Darling during an interview with Vanity Fair. The Biggest Celeb Feuds of All Time: Drake and Kanye West, Cardi B and Nicki Minaj and More "Ideally I dont really want to be going down the Dont Worry Darling conversation because this whole release for The Wonder has been so positive and Ive been really excited to talk about that," she told the magazine in February. "I dont really feel the need to go into the nitty-gritty details of Dont Worry Darling. So, if its OK, Ill probably just let that one sit." American Horror Story, meanwhile, has been leaning into the drama by poking fun at various pop culture topics since Delicates September 20 debut. During Wednesday's episode, Kardashian's character got a dress previously worn by Madonna for Robert's character to wear at an event. Siobhan reminded Anna "not to rip" the garment, which some viewers believed was a reference to Kardashian, 42, wearing Marilyn Monroe's vintage Bob Mackie gown at the 2022 Met Gala. Lauren Sanchez has expressed her gratitude for the quality time she has with her fiance, Jeff Bezos. The former news anchor, 53, took to Instagram on 27 September to share a snap of her and her partner on a walk, as she had her hand in his back pocket, and he had his arm over her shoulder. In the caption, Sanchez went on to praise some of the moments that she and Bezos get to spend together. Nothing better than when I get to see him for lunch between his meetings, she wrote. In the comments, many famous faces and fans went on to applaud the couple, whove been together since 2019. Cute, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Kyle Richards wrote, along with two red heart emojis. These posts about your love bubble are the cutest and so down to earth! You go girl, another fan wrote, while a third commented: Just two icons walking together casual. In May, it was reported that Sanchez and the billionaire, 59, had gotten engaged after five years of dating. He reportedly popped the question while they were in Cannes, France, for the Cannes Film Festival. The trip was just part of the pairs vacation in Europe over the summer. In June, the couple first arrived in Italy via helicopter, with Sanchez and Bezos then making their way to Koru, Bezos new super yacht which is reportedly worth more than $75m. As they travelled on the boat through Italy, Bezos also became the worlds most overpaid Instagram boyfriend, after he was seen leaning back and taking photos of his fiancee, in an apparent effort to capture her best angles. In August, they reportedly hosted an engagement party with some famous guests, including Bill Gates and his girlfriend, Paula Hurd. People first reported that the celebration took place aboard the Amazon founders yacht on the Amalfi Coast, Italy. Weeks after their reported engagement party, Sanchez and Bezos pledged $100m towards relief efforts in Maui after a series of devastating wildfires. Jeff and I are heartbroken by whats happening in Maui. We are thinking of all the families that have lost so much and a community that has been left devastated, the reporter wrote on Instagram in August. The immediate needs are important, and so is the longer-term rebuilding that will have to happen even after much of the attention has subsided. Jeff and I are creating a Maui Fund and are dedicating $100 million to help Maui get back on its feet now and over the coming years as the continuing needs reveal themselves. Earlier this year, Sanchez also spoke candidly about the challenges shes faced while in a high-profile relationship. Speaking to WSJ Magazine, the reporter said that her relationship with Bezos meant that she has had to change the way she shares her secrets. Its hard. Im a very open person. I talk a lot. I like to tell all my secrets, she said, before adding: I have had to learn that I cant do that. She also said that she was focused on maintaining her privacy and keeping some information to herself, which is something she keeps in mind all the time. I want to tell everyone everything. I want everyone to be my friend! she said. I learned how to not give the location of where Im at. I cant Instagram things that I normally would before. I have to be more private, a little more controlled, and thats fine. Martin Scorsese couldnt be more proud of longtime collaborator Leonardo DiCaprio. The iconic filmmaker said as much before Wednesdays New York City premiere of Killers of the Flower Moon, which reunites the duo for the sixth time. In the movie, based on a nonfiction book of the same name, DiCaprio portrays a potential accomplice in the murders of Osage Nation members. He has range, and he keeps growing, Scorsese told ET. He also has a lot of courage, and I know hell go to places that other people might pull back from. ... Working with him over the years, hes been growing as a person hes maturing from a young kid to a young man. Scorsese continued: And so, as he changes in life, hes changing on film. The iconic director has certainly witnessed DiCaprio mature he first cast him at 27 years old for Gangs of New York in 2002. Theyve since collaborated on The Aviator (2004), The Departed (2006), Shutter Island (2010) and The Wolf Of Wall Street (2013). He saved me, DiCaprio told the Deseret News during an interview to promote Shutter Island in 2010. I was headed down a path of being one kind of actor, and he helped me become another one. The one I wanted to be. That fruitful relationship has drawn parallels to Scorseses alliance with Robert De Niro, which resulted in cinema classics including Taxi Driver (1976), Raging Bull (1980) and Goodfellas (1990) and now continues with Killers of the Flower Moon. The upcoming crime drama, adapted from David Granns 2017 book, centers on real-life FBI investigations into dozens of Osage Nation murders in 1920s Oklahoma. The victims notably owned land overflowing with oil before being killed. Killers of the Flower Moon marks the sixth time DiCaprio (left) was cast in a Scorsese film. Killers of the Flower Moon marks the sixth time DiCaprio (left) was cast in a Scorsese film. De Niro plays William Hale, an unscrupulous political boss of Osage County who tries to manipulate his nephew Ernest Burkhart (DiCaprio) into betraying his own indigenous wife for potential land rights. For Scorsese, half the fun was just hanging around together on the set. And then for him to take on a character like this, there are friends of mine who saw the film and have known Bob for years, he told ET. They told me after seeing the film that for the first half or 40 minutes they didnt realize it was Bob. And they know him! Its hysterical. Scorsese continued: I said, You must be joking. No! They thought it was somebody [else]. Scorseses new film, which is longer than the second Avatar movie, arrives after several interviews in which he decried the ongoing dominance of comic book movies. While some remain angry that the man who made Goodfellas has opinions, many are salivating for his return. Killers of the Flower Moon hits theaters Oct. 20 and lands on Apple TV+ at a later date. Related... Barcelona-born director Sara Gutierrez Galve is following up her 2018 Malaga award-winning debut effort, Yo La Busco, with forthcoming dramedy Mala Gent (Bad People), a wry depiction of the disparate stories of three protagonists living in the town of Girones, who attend the same wedding. Among five projects selected at Madrids 5th ECAM Incubator, the project follows each of its leads 10 days prior to the nuptials as they navigate their inner turmoil, all eventually forced to grin and bear the festivities, their lives intersecting momentarily throughout. More from Variety Guitierrez Galve, a UCLA alum, is teaming once more with co-scribe Nuria Roura on the script thats billed as a collage that speaks of themes such as childhood, loneliness and work. Ines Massa (Farrucas) and Nadine Rothschild (The Permanent Picture), founders at nascent production house Materia Cinema, are producing the project and are currently utilizing their extensive industry ties to build on international co-productions while seeking to offer their expertise to foreign projects aiming to shoot in the region. Apart from ECAM, Mala Gent was selected for the Faberllull residency in 2021 and participated in the 2022-2023 MFI Script 2 Film Workshop and this years DA Lab a Desarrollo. In October, the team heads to Romes MIA Market, with Spanish Screenings on Tour, to cement further financing, co-production and distribution for the title. Massa spoke with Variety about Galves burgeoning talent and the humor implicit in quotidian affairs. What attracted you to producing this project? Ive known Sara since she was filming her debut Yo la Busca. In some way, I closely followed the production process, especially her creative process. Sara was very young and embarking on a big challenge. I was surprised by the way she approached the production, the sensitivity of her gaze. I saw that she was a girl who had to be given space to grow as a creator. Sara represents a promising voice of the new generation of Catalan filmmakers whore committed to sharp humor that shines a light on the shadows in all of us. The tone she uses to address such everyday human issues is extremely interesting. The concept brings together different characters at a wedding. Why is a wedding the ultimate setting for a dramedy? Precisely because it seems like a terrible place to go when youre having a bad day. A wedding is still a great party, a great social event which is often corseted and produced. In these conventional spaces many things can happen that destabilize that composure and in that clash theres incongruity and comedy. Being complicit in the dramas of people, whore in the midst of many others who are apparently having a great time, generates discomfort and tension, which leads to humor. Can you talk a little about the unique aspects of the script? Its a very constructed script, very character-based, where we explore the light and miseries of the most common people. Its a complex structure at the script level. Sara seeks the complexity of human behavior through this seemingly simple, everyday behavior. How important are international co-productions for Materia? All our films have international potential, thats partly why we like to add international partners for each of them. We think about the films we back for international audiences and adding co-producers helps us reach them. Our first film, The Permanent Picture, in co-production with France, is an example of the type of structures we want to continue working on. We currently have a documentary in co-production with France and its working very well for us. In the same way that were co-producing a short film with Serbia. We like to work with other countries for the sake of reaching larger audiences, being able to add energy and resources and to make projects grow creatively with professionals that we trust from other countries who provide unique perspectives. 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. Renee Bach was 19 when she claims to have heard a calling from God telling her to travel to Uganda on a missionary trip to save children from starvation, poverty and deadly diseases. In 2009, she moved to Jinja, Uganda and opened a charity called Serving His Children. There, with a high-school diploma and zero medical education or professional licenses, Bach spearheaded treatments for babies and young children, which included hooking up IV drips, feeding sessions, prescribing medications, giving blood transfusions and handling other procedures. From 2011 to 2015, Serving His Children ran as a non-governmental organization. During this time, a large number of children died under Bachs care, and soon after, Ugandan officials shut SHC down. Bach was run out of the country, and returned to the U.S., where she is currently facing a lawsuit from a Ugandan human rights attorney, based on the testimony of two mothers who lost their children under Bachs care. More from Variety Now, HBOs three-part docuseries Savior Complex which is now streaming on Max takes a look into the problem that is Bach and SHC. While the mortality rate at Bachs facility was high, so was the mortality rate at local, government-operated hospitals in Uganda. The series ponders whether it would have been better for Bach to have done nothing, as opposed to give some care and asks why she never went to medical school nor hired Ugandan doctors to lead her NGO. But it doesnt just put the pressure on Bach. At one point, head nurse Constance Alonyo, whom Bach worked closely with at SHC, says no one involved in this story was doing everything perfectly. Let he who has never sinned pick a stone and throw it at Renee, Alonyo says. Savior Complex takes a look past Bach to delve into a much larger issue. We really wanted to zoom out to understand how the situation could happen at all, Emmy-award winning series director Jackie Jesko tells Variety. In an interview with Variety, Jesko and executive producer Roger Ross Williams break down the shocking twists revealed over the course of the three episodes, while discussing what theyve learned about megachurches, mission trips and white saviors. I really loved one of the first quotes from Episode 1, when someone says, Africa is not your playground. It felt like that was the recurring theme over the course of the series. Jackie Jesko: When we started working on this series, of course you want to do the investigation into understanding this case what happened, and all of that but we really wanted to zoom out to understand how the situation could happen at all. Unpacking that was what led us to such huge, interesting and important topics: the legacy of colonialism and Uganda, harmful white savior narratives that often shaped the mindsets of missionaries and aid workers, and how, when those two worldviews collide, it can be really dangerous. So, I definitely thought that was a really important thing to draw attention to. Obviously, Roger did as well, as he did it in his fantastic film God Loves Uganda . Roger Ross Williams: Ten years ago, I made a film called God Loves Uganda where I followed American missionaries as they went to Uganda to basically write and enforce the anti-homosexuality bill, which was death by hanging for the LGBTQ+ community. That was death by hanging even for recruitment, meaning if you approach someone and talked about being gay, you could be convicted. And 10 years later, that bill got passed. This was the work of decades and decades and decades of American missionaries, who couldnt get this idea through in America, but could in Africa. Uganda was ripe for a takeover. Its the country most devastated by HIV and AIDS, so it has the youngest population and the most orphans in the world. So the American missionaries and evangelicals went there and built schools and hospitals, and basically raised politicians who are now the members of parliament or the judges who sit on courts, all so they could control the country and enforce these harmful policies and ideas that they couldnt in America. So Renee Bach was not the first, but she was the center of this particular story. How did you get her on board to speak on camera for the docuseries? Along with everyone else? Because Im sure it wasnt easy. Jesko: Youre correct. The bookings were difficult. But I think on the Renee side, she agreed to participate because she felt like the story being put out there by social media activists, in particular No White Saviors, was untrue. People will be calling her a serial killer, a genocidal maniac, that kind of stuff. Obviously, she does not agree with that. So I believe she hoped by sharing her version of events that some people would see there was more nuance to the situation. For the rest, ultimately, I think everyone felt like this was an important story and that it should be told. That ended up kind of tipping it over for everybody. Williams: And its really important that we expose these kinds of stories. How are we going to accept that white saviorism is racism if our eyes arent open to stories like this? However painful it is to talk, its really important to expose this. Ive also followed seemingly innocent young, white missionaries from the International House of Prayer in Kansas City a megachurch with a $30 million yearly operating budget to Uganda, where they preached hate. I exposed that, and it got a lot of attention. But, you know, did it make a difference? Maybe, but its 10 years later, and its still happening. When this premieres, do you think its going to help change that? Or what impact are you seeking? Williams: I think that the faith-based community in America is not all bad. You know, there are many people who want to do good with their missionary work, to help empower the people of Uganda. And what should have happened is Renee, and whoever her funders were, should have empowered Ugandan doctors or medical schools to train Ugandan doctors, those who actually are qualified to do this stuff. Uganda is in this situation because of colonialism in the first place, so, we really need to think about how we present aid to a place like Uganda. Its a conversation that is not talked about enough in this country. What were some principles or guides that you followed along the way to deal with conflicting stories, and to keep a streamlined narrative going throughout the film? Jesko: Ive spent my whole career as an investigative journalist, so for me, people telling me conflicting stories is not really new, but there were challenges specific to this story. We were looking for official documentation the issue was the only records available were from Serving His Children. Theres no outside entity tracking admissions or deaths. We also got a lot of slammed doors from Ugandan officials, from the police to the department of health. I understand why, because anything about America and Uganda can be a political hot potato, and nobody really wants to get involved. Also, even locating the moms who brought their children to Serving His Children was very hard, considering the vast area they came from and the fact that a lot of them didnt have documentation or proof for us to corroborate their stories. But Im proud of what we were able to do against those circumstances. It was just putting all the evidence we had out there. Calling it like we saw it, and letting it lie. Thats the most you can do in a story like this, especially when were dealing with someone who has allegations, but theres no criminal convictions, right? So its kind of a complicated and difficult balance. In the third episode, you delve into the story behind No White Saviors kicking out its co-founder Kelsey Nielsen. Was that something that you planned on including? Or did that drama happen during production? Jesko: Almost all of Episode 3 happened while we were filming the show. We didnt know that was gonna happen, but of course, I thought it was an interesting thing to include, considering the mission of No White Saviors. Did you kind of feel like Kelsey and Renee were I dont want to say in the same position, but were kind of representing the same white-centered saviorism? Jesko: I wouldnt call it a one-to-one by any means. I think thatd be really unfair. Kelsey probably shouldnt have been in a position of power at No White Saviors, and so the fact that they kind of came down on her, theres a kind of poetic justice in that. I dont think shes the same as Renee. But do I think theres that dramatic similarity in that? Yeah, for sure. What do you feel is your biggest takeaway from working on this project? And what do you hope comes out of it? Jesko: I guess for the series, what I hope is that it sparks a difficult conversation about how to help without hurting, and that it will provoke people to think more deeply about the intersection of money, religion, race, when it comes to foreign aid, and how that can create harmful imbalances. And its interesting, because Ive actually seen a bunch of Ugandan intellectuals, on Twitter and stuff, talking about this case, and saying this is an example of things that need to change in their own society and governments. And thats cool to see that. But I also think the onus is more on the American side of the equation, because were the ones sending so many young people out. Were the ones funding that. I grew up in the same generation as Renee Bach. And I was exposed to a lot of the same white savior narratives in media, right? Theres always movies about the white person who goes in and saves the day in this foreign country, and no one else could have. So I think its important to talk about it I think that its been a big issue in aid and missionary work. And that this story gave us the chance to really talk about that in a real way. And that was something Roger cares a lot about as well. Williams: I think it does start with the money, you know always follow the money. When you were giving money to missionary work in your church, maybe you want to question exactly what those missionaries are doing exactly where that money is going. And maybe this is a question more for you, Roger. I know some people from big group churches go on these missions, they post about it, theyre really excited about it. What do you think is the best way to reach people who are a little blinded by this savior notion, to get them to realize that what theyre doing might not be as good as they think it is? Is it a documentary like this? Williams: I think they all should watch this film so they can see the damage that often happens because of missionary work like this. Like any great piece of journalism, its about opening your eyes to a situation, an injustice that you may not have been exposed to. And thats the great thing about Jackie and her team. Theyre young, talented journalists who saw a story, wanted to investigate it, and get as wide an audience as possible with HBO. Its a sad story. But it needs to be seen. And as someone who has made many films in Africa, who was on many boards supporting lots of artistic endeavors in Africa, I am passionate about exposing these sorts of narratives and really having a discussion, both here in America and in Africa. This interview has been edited and condensed. 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. LUXEMBOURG, September 28, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sisvel International S.A. ("Sisvel") today announced that Huawei patents will now be available through its Cellular IoT technology patent pool after the company signed up to the programme as a licensor. The agreement means that more world class IP has been added to a pool which already includes patents from around 25 renowned innovators. At the same time, Sisvel has revealed new royalty rates for the Cellular IoT patent pool, including for devices with a lower selling price. The firm has also expanded its offering to new product verticals. Please see link for more details. The Sisvel Cellular IoT patent pool offers device manufacturers licences - on fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory terms and conditions - to participants patent portfolios essential to the LTE-M and NB-IoT standards. "We are excited to welcome Huawei, a major contributor to the development of cellular IoT, as a member," says Sisvels Cellular IoT programme manager, Sven Torringer. "LTE-M and NB-IoT technologies are great solutions for anyone who wishes to connect products and services in the IoT arena, and Huaweis presence further strengthens the pools licence offering as a one-stop shop for this market." "I am proud to welcome Huawei to this important pool, which is poised to bring unparalleled efficiencies to both implementers and innovators in IoT markets," says Sisvel president Mattia Fogliacco. "This is more proof of the work we are doing with cutting-edge companies to power innovation and a further sign of Huaweis confidence in us, after they became a founding member of our Wi-Fi 6 pool." Further information about the terms and conditions of this licence offer is available on Sisvels website https://www.sisvel.com/licensing-programmes/iot/cellular-iot/. For more details, contact Sisvel at: iot@sisvel.com. About Huawei Founded in 1987, Huawei is a leading global provider of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure and smart devices. We have 207,000 employees and we operate in more than 170 countries and regions, serving more than three billion people around the world. Story continues Our vision and mission is to bring digital to every person, home and organization for a fully connected, intelligent world. To this end, we will work towards ubiquitous connectivity and inclusive network access, laying the foundation for an intelligent world; provide diversified computing power where you need it, when you need it, to bring cloud and intelligence to all four corners of the earth; build digital platforms to help all industries and organizations become more agile, efficient, and dynamic; and redefine user experience with AI, making it smarter and more personalized for people in all aspects of their life, whether they're at home, on the go, in the office, having fun, or working out. For more information, please visit Huawei online at www.huawei.com or follow us on: http://www.linkedin.com/company/Huawei http://www.twitter.com/Huawei http://www.facebook.com/Huawei http://www.youtube.com/Huawei About Sisvel Sisvel is driven by a belief in the importance of collaboration, ingenuity and efficiency to bridge the needs of patent owners and those who wish to access their technologies. In a complex and constantly evolving marketplace, our guiding principle is to create a level playing field with the development and implementation of flexible, accessible, commercialisation solutions. We Power Innovation www.sisvel.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/sisvel-group https://twitter.com/sisvelgroup View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230927917883/en/ Contacts Sisvel Media Contact Giulia Dini Communications Manager Tel: +34 93 131 5570 giulia.dini@sisvel.com The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were in Germany attending the Invictus Games, and they made another stop before returning to California Rolf Vennenbernd/picture alliance via Getty Images Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in Germany on Sept. 14, 2023 Meghan Markle and Prince Harry reportedly extended their European vacation with a stop in Portugal. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who were in Germany earlier this month to attend the sixth iteration of the Invictus Games, quietly stopped in Portugal for a vacation before returning home to California, according to Nova Gente. Harry and Meghan likely spent time with the Duke's cousin Princess Eugenie, who lives in Portugal part-time. It was announced last year that Eugenie's husband, Jack Brooksbank, landed a new job that will see the family (the couple are parents to two sons: August, 2, and Ernest, 4 months) splitting their time between the U.K. and Portugal. Despite Prince Harry and Meghan's move to the United States in 2020 after announcing their decision to step back as senior working members of the royal family, the Duke of Sussex remains close to cousins Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. A family insider told PEOPLE earlier this year, "They're still the best of friends and talk constantly." Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Princess Eugenie, Prince Harry and Princess Beatrice at Trooping the Colour 2012 Related: Meghan Markle Wears Carolina Herrera Again! for Surprise Appearance at Kevin Costner's Fundraiser The tensions between Prince Harry and Meghan with the royal family, particularly his father King Charles and brother Prince William, has been "really stressful" for Beatrice and Eugenie, the insider added. "This whole drama between him and Meghan and the rift with the rest of the family has been really stressful for the girls. Its hard to watch because they see both sides of it," the source said, adding that the sisters "understand and live the royal machine." Prince Harry's bond with Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie was recently on display at King Charles' coronation on May 6. Although Meghan stayed in California with their two children, Harry entered Westminster Abbey smiling and chatting with Beatrice, her husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, Eugenie and Jack. Aaron Chown - WPA Pool/Getty Prince Harry at King Charles' coronation on May 6, 2023 In Feb. 2022, Prince Harry was joined by Princess Eugenie at the Super Bowl in California and she was the only member of the royal family to appear in new footage during their Netflix docuseries Harry and Meghan, which aired in December. The video appeared to show Eugenie playing with Harry and Meghan's son, Prince Archie , at the beach. "Eugenie had always been more than just a cousin to Harry. They were also the closest of friends," authors Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand wrote in Finding Freedom: Harry and Meghan and the Making of a Modern Royal Family. "Out of all the Queen's grandchildren, Harry and Eugenie have one of the most natural connections. Like Harry, Eugenie is loyal, honest, and great fun. The two had many nights out together in London," the authors added. "Harry had always confided in his cousin when it came to the women in his life. Not only did he trust her implicitly, but friends say that she gives great advice and has always been 'beyond wise' for her years." Yui Mok - WPA Pool/Getty Queen Elizabeth with Princess Eugenie, Princess Beatrice and Prince Harry in 2019 Related: Sam Ryder Says Singing with Meghan Markle 'Wasnt on' His '2023 Bingo Card' After Invictus Games Performance Meghan also shares a bond with Eugenie. Speaking with Oprah Winfrey in 2021, the Duchess of Sussex revealed that she knew Princess Eugenie prior to dating Harry. "Eugenie and I had known each other before I had known Harry, so that was comfortable," she said. "We're friends with them as a couple." Meghan later told Ellen DeGeneres during an appearance on her talk show that Princess Eugenie and Jack visited her in Toronto when she was dating Prince Harry. Before the news of their relationship broke to the public, the two couples went out to a Halloween party in disguise. "The four of us snuck out in Halloween costumes to just have one fun night on the town before it was out in the world that we were a couple," explained Meghan. Chris Jackson/Getty Images Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attend the Invictus Games on Sept. 15, 2023 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! While Meghan made her first appearance in Germany on Sept. 12, Prince Harry had kicked off his event for service personnel and veterans a few days earlier. The Duke of Sussex also stopped in the U.K. before heading to Germany there, he attended the WellChild Awards and visited his grandmother Queen Elizabeth's burial site at Windsor Castle on the first anniversary of her death. On Friday, the couple made a surprise appearance in Santa Barbara at Kevin Costners oceanside fundraiser for the charity One805. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. The actor died "peacefully" in the hospital following a "bout of pneumonia," his representative confirmed in a statement to PEOPLE Sir Michael Gambon , the Irish-born British actor of the stage and screen known for playing Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films, has died. He was 82 years old. Gambon died "peacefully" in the hospital late Wednesday evening, his representative confirmed in a statement to PEOPLE issued on behalf of his wife Lady Gambon and son Fergus. Mike Marsland/WireImage We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon," the statement shared on Thursday began. "Beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia. Michael was 82." The statement concluded, "We ask that you respect our privacy at this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love." Related: Remembering the Harry Potter Actors We've Lost Through the Years In addition to a celebrated career in theater and on television, Gambon who was born in Cabra in Dublin, Ireland in 1940 had memorable roles in movies like 1992's Toys, 1999's Sleepy Hollow, 2001's Gosford Park and 2010's The King's Speech, in which he played King George V and was among the cast that won the SAG Award for outstanding performance by a cast in a motion picture. He was also twice nominated for Emmy Awards, and he won four BAFTA Awards. In 2012, Gambon received the Richard Harris Award from the British Independent Film Awards, an honor that acknowledges an actor who has, during the course of their career, contributed significantly to British film. In 1998, he received a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth. The actor found his most widely-known role in the Potter franchise, when he took over the part of Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore in 2004's Prisoner of Azkaban after the death of Richard Harris in October 2002. Harris played Dumbledore in the series' first two films. Warner Bros. 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. In 2009, Gambon talked to the Associated Press about not realizing the influence of the fantasy franchise when he agreed to play Dumbledore, and coming to appreciate the Potter legacy. "They rang me up and said, 'Will you do it?' Like any other job I said, 'Sure.' Then you find yourself in the middle of this thing," he said, adding, "I've played quite a lot of crooks and killers, and that's quite interesting. Then Dumbledore is the complete opposite, isn't he? He's a nice old man." "This will stick out as being a happy memory, being with a thing for so long and the worldwide love of it. You never forget that," said Gambon. Related: Paying Tribute to the Celebrities Who Have Died in 2023 Georges De Keerle/Getty Images Speaking with The Guardian in 2014, Gambon opened up about acting, specifically how he brings himself to cry for an emotional scene. "You just do it. That's what acting is," he said at the time. "But I admit I try and summon up a powerful image. The one I often think of is that of a little girl in uniform, taken during the Vietnam War, with her clothes and body on fire because of an aerial bomb. I believe she recovered and is now a doctor, which makes me feel I'm not simply exploiting someone else's tragedy." Gambon is survived by his wife, Lady Gambon and son Fergus, as well as two children, Will and Tom, with Philippa Hart. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley tore into entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy on the second GOP debate stage Wednesday, saying while arguing over safety concerns regarding TikTok that every time he speaks, she feels a little bit dumber. When asked about his decision to join TikTok while its been banned for many federal employees, Ramaswamy responded, The answer is, I have a radical idea for the Republican Party: We need to win elections. And part of how we win elections is reaching the next generation of young Americans. Ramaswamy continued, saying that he has been very clear that children under the age of 16 should not be permitted to use addictive social media. Theres exactly one person in the Republican Party which talks a big game about reaching young people, Ramaswamy said. And thats me. Im the new guy here, and so I know I have to earn your trust, the tech entrepreneur-turned-politician continued. What do you see? You see a young man whos in a bit of a hurry. Maybe a little ambitious, bit of a know it all, it seems at times. Im here to tell you: no, I dont know at all. I will listen. He then threw out a barb directed toward the other presidentail hopefuls on the stage, saying that he would recruit them into his administration. My advisors will be probably many of the people on the stage, Ramaswamy said. Haley interjected saying that this is infuriating because TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media accidents we could have. Honestly every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber for what you say, Haley said. The former South Carolina governor said that TikTok can get your contacts, they can get your financial information, they can get your emails. Youre now wanting kids to go and get on this social media thats dangerous for all of us, Haley said to Ramaswamy directly. We cant trust you. Ramaswamy, given 15 seconds to respond, said I think we would be better served as a Republican Party if were not sitting here hurling personal insults and actually have a legitimate debate about policy. Meanwhile, TikTok is advertising on Fox networks during the debate, which was being hosted Wednesday by Fox Business News. The post Nikki Haley Says She Feels a Little Bit Dumber When Vivek Ramaswamy Speaks Every Time appeared first on TheWrap. The Nun is a horror movie written by Gary Dauberman and directed by Corin Hardy . In 1952, the Vatican sends a priest and a novitiate to Romania to investigate the death of a young nun. This movie was released on September 7, 2018, by Warner Bros. Pictures in the United States. Recently, on September 7, 2023, The Nun II, the sequel of this movie was also released in theatres. Heres how you can watch and stream The Nun via streaming services such as HBO Max. Is The Nun available to watch via streaming? Yes, The Nun is available to watch via streaming on HBO Max. This movie is set in 1952 in Romania. Father Burke and Sister Irene are sent there to investigate the death of a young nun. The duo sets out to uncover the truth while risking their lives in the process. They are helped by Frenchie, a villager who used to transport supplies to the nuns. It is directed by Corin Hardy and produced by Peter Safran and James Wan. The movies cast includes Demian Bichir as Father Burke, Taissa Farmiga as Sister Irene, Jonas Bloquet as Frenchie, Bonnie Aarons as The Nun, Ingrid Bisu as Sister Oana, August Maturo as Daniel, Ingrid Bisu as Sister Oana, Charlotte Hope as Sister Victoria, and more. Watch The Nun streaming via HBO Max The Nun is available to watch on HBO Max. With the ever-growing library, HBO Max has become one of the mainstream streaming services. It also offers users access to its original programs and exclusive content. You can watch via Max, formerly known as HBO Max, by following these steps: Go to HBOMax.com/subscribe Click Sign Up Now Choose your plan: $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year (with ads) $15.99 per month or $149.99 per year (ad-free) $19.99 per month or $199.99 per year (ultimate ad-free) Enter your personal information and password Select Create Account Max With Ads provides the services streaming library at a Full HD resolution, allowing users to stream on up to two supported devices at once. Max Ad-Free removes the services commercials, allows streaming on two devices at once at Full HD, and allows for 30 downloads at a time to allow users to watch content offline. Max Ultimate Ad-Free allows users to stream on four devices at once in a 4K Ultra HD resolution, along with providing Dolby Atmos audio and 100 downloads. The Nun synopsis is as follows: A priest with a haunted past and a novice on the threshold of her final vows are sent by the Vatican to investigate the death of a young nun in Romania and confront a malevolent force in the form of a demonic nun. NOTE: The streaming services listed above are subject to change. The information provided was correct at the time of writing. The Kill Room ComingSoon Editor-in-Chief Tyler Treese spoke with The Kill Room director Nicol Paone about the upcoming dark comedy. Paone discussed the Movies Tyler Treese 43 mins ago Big Mouth Season 7 Trailer Shows the Bridgeton Kids Enter High School Netflix has released the full Big Mouth Season 7 trailer for the upcoming penultimate season of the hit animated sitcom. TV Maggie Dela Paz 1 hour ago Castlevania: Nocturne ComingSoon Editor-in-Chief Tyler Treese spoke with Castlevania: Nocturne co-showrunner Kevin Kolde and directors Sam & Adam Deats about the Netflix TV Tyler Treese 2 hours ago James Cameron The Abyss filming punch James Cameron reveals he had to punch a safety diver in the face in order to escape drowning while filming Movies Brandon Schreur 2 hours ago Read more The post The Nun Streaming: Watch & Stream Online via HBO Max appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More. "I think it was definitely a situation where it was mutually beneficial for a lot of parties if my dad was out of the picture," Madison McGhee tells PEOPLE Trevor Paul Madison McGhee For 10 years, Madison McGhee believed her father died from a heart attack when she was 6 years old. But as a teen, she learned the shocking truth: He was murdered and the killer was never caught. On July 11, 2002, John Cornelius (J.C.) McGhee was fatally shot in the head in the doorway of his home in Belmont County, Ohio, leaving behind Madison, who was raised in West Virginia by her mother. Now Madison, 28, has decided to take the case into her own hands and search for the killer. In May of this year, she launched the podcast Ice Cold Case to dive deeper into the facts of the case with hopes of solving her father's murder. "This is the story of what happened to J.C. McGhee on July 11, 2002 according to police records some of which may not be entirely accurate nor adequate," the description of the first episode of the podcast reads. "Twenty years later, the search for answers begins." Courtesy of Madison McGhee JC and Madison McGhee After J.C.'s death, police came to the conclusion that his murder stemmed from a home invasion gone wrong, but Madison isn't so sure that's the truth. She became even more skeptical after learning her father had been a drug dealer-turned-informant who had helped police arrest a number of people including one of his nephews, who was then sentenced to life in prison, Madison says. "I think it was definitely a situation where it was mutually beneficial for a lot of parties if my dad was out of the picture, for either fear of getting ratted out again or just this revenge plot," says Madison, who adds: "I think a lot of people had stake in this game for different reasons." Madison's nine-episode podcast pores over the evidence of the case and includes interviews with family members and those who knew her father. "It's been this really interesting learning experience about myself, but also who my family is, people that I didn't grow up around because I was raised with my mom," she says. Courtesy of Madison McGhee Madison McGhee recording her podcast "Ice Cold Case" For more on Madison McGhee's quest to find her father's killer, subscribe now to PEOPLE or pick up this week's issue, on newsstands now. Throughout her efforts, she was able to reconnect with her half sister Alyssa, 37, and learn what Alyssa remembered from the day their father was killed. "When my dad died, I never saw my sister again," Madison says. "After the funeral, I never saw my sister in person until I met up with her last year to interview her for this podcast." However, not all of Madison's family members were willing to talk about her father's death. One relative wrote a threatening message on Facebook saying, You should stop, or Ill make you stop. Courtesy of Madison McGhee "Ice Cold Case" billboard But that hasn't deterred Madison from releasing her podcast, narrowing down suspects and continuing her quest for justice. "I want this to get solved," Madison says. "I'm willing to take it as far as I need to." With reporting by Liam Quinn For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Hamilton remains the singular Broadway supernova of the modern era so much so that many of its original stars have naturally moved on to movies and TV. Since winning his Tony for playing Aaron Burr, Leslie Odom Jr. has earned an Oscar nomination for One Night in Miami but more often, movies like Glass Onion ended up feeling like they didn't make the most of Odom's many talents. So it's a welcome development to see the charismatic actor return to Broadway this month for a starring role in the first-ever revival of Purlie Victorious. Originally written and performed in 1961 by playwright/actor Ossie Davis as a star vehicle for him and his wife Ruby Dee , Purlie Victorious is a self-described "romp" through the racial politics of the Deep South. One of the play's first jokes is that the costumes and stage design mislead you about the specific setting: Though it all looks like the era of the Civil War, Purlie Victorious is really set in the 20th century. It's just that in the Deep South, rich white Confederate descendants like Ol' Cap'n Cotchipee (Jay O. Sanders) used burdensome debt and the sharecropping system to recreate slavery in all but name. (L to R) Kara Young, Heather Alicia Simms, Leslie Odom Jr., Vanessa Bell Calloway, Billy Eugene Jones, and Noah Robbins in PURLIE VICTORIOUS Marc J. Franklin Leslie Odom Jr. and the rest of the 'Purlie Victorious' cast. Odom's title character aims to change this state of affairs. As the play begins, he returns to his Georgia hometown with a scheme that might just be harebrained enough to work. Since one of his late cousins had been promised $500 by the old white man, Purlie Victorious Judson has come back with a woman (Kara Young) who he thinks bears a striking resemblance to the cousin. He's hoping they can fool Cotchipee into handing over the money, which Purlie wants to use to buy a local dilapidated barn and transform it into a church and preach the gospel of Black liberation. The way Odom feasts on Davis' rich, whip-smart dialogue, you can't help but think he could've made a passionate preacher himself. Even when he's not singing (though the musical Purlie was adapted from Davis' play, this is just the straight prose) his voice is incredibly melodious. Playing the role originated by Dee, Young is every bit Odom's equal. In addition to being stunningly beautiful, she also has quite a talent for both verbal dexterity and physical comedy. The scene where her character (who hails from the rural backwoods of Alabama) impersonates Purlie's college-graduate cousin, struggling to balance in her high heels while enunciating high-falutin' words, is one of the play's highlights. Purlie Victorious Billy Eugene Jones, Jay O. Sanders, Kara Young, and Leslie Odom Jr, in PURLIE VICTORIOUS Marc J. Franklin Jay O. Sanders, Billy Eugene Jones, Kara Young, and Leslie Odom Jr. in 'Purlie Victorious.' The pleasures of Purlie Victorious aren't just verbal. The high-energy production often has the physicality of a top-notch farce, with characters running back and forth across the stage sometimes to restrain Purlie's more careless impulses, other times to protect each other from white wrath. Somewhere around the halfway point, Purlie's schemes land him in hot water with Cotchipee and the gun-toting sheriff. But before the plot can come too close to the darkest moments of a movie like 12 Years a Slave, things go sideways and the fight becomes farcical in hilarious fashion. Purlie Victorious manages to have fun without shying away from the historical reality of Black oppression. It also speaks to the wide variety of African-American experience and opinion while Purlie preaches revolution, Young's Lutiebell delights in the simple pleasures of corn fritters and cookouts, strapping cotton-picker Gitlow (Billy Eugene Jones) does his best to fly under the white man's radar, and Idella Landy (Vanessa Bell Calloway) teaches Cotchipee's son Charlie (Noah Robbins) to have a greater sense of empathy and justice than his Confederate forebears. Along with the revival of The Sign in Sidney Brustein's Window earlier this year, this second-ever Broadway production of Purlie Victorious makes you wonder how many other vital works by Black playwrights are sitting somewhere, underused and underseen, waiting to be brought up under the bright lights where they belong. Grade: B+ Related content: Hulus Love in Fairhope will make admirers of the romance genre weak in the knees. The unscripted series (now streaming), executive produced by Reese Witherspoon, chronicles the love lives of five women in the quaint town of Fairhope, Alabama, a half-hour's drive from Mobile. Creator Lauren Weber (The Hills: New Beginnings, "Shahs of Sunset"), struck by Cupids arrow for Nancy Meyers and Nora Ephron rom-coms, longed to take all the principles of (that) storytelling and make a real-life version of it, she says. I'm hoping to redefine drama in unscripted (TV), because I think for so long we've seen drama in one way, says Weber. People don't have to be throwing drinks in each others face. Everything doesnt have to be at a 10 to be dramatic. In love there are just so many range of emotions." Weber says she asked the casts, "If you could star in a movie about yourself and if your life could be a movie inspired by your life, what role would you play?" While some reality TV is scripted or influenced by producers, "for the most part you're following people around in their daily life. This is the most heightened version of a blend that we've seen before." (She estimates about 60% of Fairhope is documentary, and the rest scripted.) 'Scandal does not define me' 'Dancing With the Stars' dives into Scandoval with Ariana Madix Weber searched the Southern coast for a setting that rivaled a Nicholas Sparks movie. And just like in any good meet-cute, fate smiled upon her. Right as I was about to head to Mississippi, someone said, Just go have lunch in Fairhope. And it was love at first sight. It's just so magical when you pull in, Weber says. It's Spanish moss, and everybody looks like they're drinking from this fountain of youth. It's a real-life Hallmark movie. Pair that with the intimacy of a town (population 23,859). So we started casting off of small-town movie archetypes, she says. We wanted to find the girl that had just moved back from a big city, and the girl (who) was in love with her best friend. "Love in Fairhope" star Abby Mannich can't resist her former on-and-off-again flame Trevor Chunn. Enter Abby Mannich, whos recently returned to Fairhope after breaking up with her New York City beau. And Mya Jo Williams, who has a complicated relationship with her male best friend, Nick Defilippi. LaShoundra Young is separated from her husband, one of the towns preachers. Claiborne Walsh is a spunky widow looking for companionship in her twilight years, and Olivia Ogletree is exploring a romance with her former classmate. Instead of on-camera interviews with the stars, narration by Heather Graham propels the storyline. The cast has movie-star looks, and the men are often shirtless, showcasing their toned physiques. We wanted to enhance everything to feel a little more heightened, a little bit sexier, a little bit more romanticized, says Weber. So Nick probably wouldn't hop off a tractor that way, but he lives on a farm, and is always on a tractor. Fairhope itself is a bit of a movie version of itself, Weber admits. The beach is an hour away, not down the street. So some of it is fictionalized in a movie sense, but the people themselves are just so wholesome. More dating: 'The Golden Bachelor' Gerry Turner reveals what his late wife would think of reality TV stint Mya Jo Williams enjoys a beach day with Kirk Lipscomb in Hulu's new series "Love in Fairhope." Theres a scene in the finale that feels right out of the movies. One of the main characters dreams of moving to Miami, and leaves for the airport after the towns annual ball (as if there are no other possible flights). As she ascends the escalator, she sees her love interest at the top. It's an intentional nod to the 1999 feature Cruel Intentions starring Witherspoon and her ex-husband Ryan Phillippe, says Weber. The "Fairhope" couple has always been in love with each other, Weber says. And sure, he's stumbled his way to her and said things like I want you, but not in a way that a woman would obviously drop everything and leave for. So I think the reality is his feelings are real but the situation we thought heightened in that way would just be more provocative. Weber crosses her fingers for a second season of Love in Fairhope and says the town might even provide a happily ever after ending of her own. The producer ditched Los Angeles to move to the town and just happens to be single. 'Bachelor in Paradise': Cast, premiere date, trailer, how to watch new episodes This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Hulu's 'Love in Fairhope' marries reality, fantasy to 'redefine' genre Renee Bach is an American missionary who founded the charity Serving His Children in Uganda. She opened a malnourishment center where 105 children died, and has been sued by some of their families. Bach is now the subject of a controversial HBO documentary, "Savior Complex." In 2019, NPR correspondent Nurith Aizenman published a report on American missionary Renee Bach with an immediately cutting headline: "American With No Medical Training Ran Center For Malnourished Ugandan Kids. 105 Died." A decade earlier in 2009, then 19-year-old Bach, a homeschooled white evangelical Christian teen from Virginia, had set up her charity Serving His Children (SHC) in Jinja, Uganda, after returning from a missionary trip to the East African city. At first, the organization, which Bach told NPR had felt like "a calling from God," provided free hot meals to children in the neighborhood. Eventually, the organization's base in Jinja became a feeding center for malnourished children some of whom had medical needs that demanded more intensive care than what Bach and SHC could provide. According to sources interviewed by NPR, Bach at times provided some of that medical care herself, despite not being medically qualified to do so. From 2010 through 2015, Bach told NPR, the center treated 940 malnourished children and, as the report's headline stated, 105 of those children died. Amid accusations that she was responsible for those deaths and the threat of civil lawsuits, Bach moved back home to Bedford, Virginia, in 2019, according to a separate report from The New Yorker in 2020. She now has two daughters: Zuriah, the younger, and Selah, whom Bach adopted in Uganda after she was brought into SHC for treatment. Bach's time in Uganda has made her the face of white saviorism in Africa. She's reportedly been sued twice in Ugandan court by family members of children who died or were injured after receiving treatment at SHC. Bach has never faced charges in the United States, according to Vanity Fair. In interviews with The New Yorker and in affidavits for civil suits against her reported on by ABC News, Bach's detractors say that she lured desperate Ugandan family members away from better-equipped hospitals to seek treatment for their children at SHC instead, passing herself off as a licensed medical professional. However, others like Abner Tagoola, the head of the pediatric hospital in the nearby town of Nalufenya, who worked with Bach disputed that criticism when speaking to The New Yorker in 2020. Tagoola told the New Yorker that he believed Bach acted out of "desperation" to help the sick babies who came to SHC. According to The New Yorker, an independent investigation conducted by the Uganda Medical and Dental Practitioners Council in response to a 2019 suit against Bach found no evidence that Bach had provided medical care. The investigation also stated that it was "unable to support allegations that children died in large numbers due to the services of SHC." Bach and SHC, which has since been dissolved, have maintained that Bach never represented herself as a doctor. The controversy and ongoing legal battles have been the subject of multiple journalistic investigation in various mediums. In addition to the reports by NPR and The New Yorker, an iHeartRadio podcast titled "The Missionary" explored her story in 2020. And now, she's the subject of "Savior Complex," an HBO documentary directed by investigative journalist and documentarian Jackie Jesko, airing now on HBO and available to stream on Max. "I feel like I've taken the hit for every single white person who's ever stepped foot in Uganda," Bach says in an interview for the documentary. Bach and Serving His Children were first called out by the organization No White Saviors in 2018 As The New Yorker reported, No White Saviors was founded by Ugandan social worker Olivia Patience Alaso and white American social worker Kelsey Nielsen, with the goal to "decolonize development" and call out examples of the white savior complex. The group's criticism of Bach, starting as a social-media campaign in 2018, was the first campaign to thrust the group into the spotlight, and The Guardian credited No White Saviors with helping to bring attention to Bach's story. In 2022, The Guardian reported that Nielsen resigned from the organization over accusations of leveraging her white privilege and pushing its Black members to the margins. One employee at the time, Rwothomio Kabandole, told The Guardian that Nielsen presented herself as "the most radical person in the organization for black liberation." Nielsen told the publication in a statement that she had been "resistant" to seeing her own actions as indicative of her white privilege, saying she had been "extremely hypocritical." Following Nielsen's departure, the organization restructured into a Black- and African-led non-governmental organization. On September 15, the organization released a statement on HBO's "Savior Complex" documentary series on X , formerly known as Twitter, saying that it had been led to believe that the documentary would focus on the group's work. Instead, the statement continued, the trailer indicated that the series was "giving a central voice and sympathy to white woman fragility tears." "We have our own story to tell about this and we plan to do so through a Black and African-led media company," NWS wrote . Bach settled a Ugandan civil suit regarding the deaths of two children in 2020 Ugandan civil rights attorney Primah Kwagala brought a civil suit against Bach on behalf of two mothers whose children died in January 2019, according to NPR. The filing included excerpts from the blog Bach maintained about SHC's activities, and photos from her own website as well as from a site run by another volunteer. Those mothers were Gimbo Zubeda, whose son Twalali Kifabi died in Serving His Children's care, and Annet Kakai, whose son Elijah Kabagambe died at home after receiving care from Serving His Children, NPR reported in July 2020. In the lawsuit, the outlet reported, former volunteers and Serving His Children staff alleged that Bach had made medical decisions and performed medical procedures like blood transfusions without medical supervision. Speaking to NPR for its 2019 report, Bach acknowledged that she would perform procedures like IV insertion and running tubing for a transfusion. She maintained, however, that while she was sometimes not directly supervised by a medical professional, those actions were always "under the request and direction of a medical professional." Both mothers, as well as Kifabi's grandmother Ziria Namutamba, who brought Kifabi to Serving His Children for treatment, appeared in court in January 2020, the New Yorker reported. At the time, the publication reported that the magistrate ordered both parties to attempt mediation before the court would take action. In its July 2020 story, NPR reported that Bach had settled the lawsuit, agreeing that she and Serving His Children would jointly pay approximately $9,500 to each mother, without admitting liability. Kwagala told NPR at the time of the 2020 settlement that Bach personally apologized to the mothers, saying that she would not return to Uganda or be involved in any medical practice in the country. Bach's attorney David Gibbs confirmed to NPR that Bach did speak with the mothers, saying that Serving His Children was shutting down due to factors related to the lawsuit, "media pressure," and the COVID-19 pandemic. "There's no amount of money that can bring their kids back to life," Kwagala told NPR in 2020, saying that while trying for her clients, it had brought them some "closure." 4 other Ugandan families later took legal action against Bach and requested criminal charges be brought against her In January 2021, The Guardian reported that four more Ugandan families had filed another lawsuit against Bach. Those families took their children to Serving His Children, the outlet reported, and three of them later died. Documents related to the lawsuit, filed in Ugandan court, said that those children died after receiving treatment, and that the fourth child had health problems after having surgery at the center. One parent, Lukiya Nakaja, said that she was "angry" after learning that Bach wasn't a doctor. Her daughter Eva died in 2013, and per The Guardian, Nakaja alleged in her affidavit that Bach had given her daughter tablets, connected her to oxygen, and put tubes into Eva's nose without explaining what she was doing. "We hope there will be justice for these affected families, and that it will be a deterrent measure for people who abuse development work," Robert Okot, a lawyer representing the four families, told The Guardian. The lawsuit requests compensation for the families, a public apology from Bach, and for the court to "order criminal sanction" against her, per the outlet. NPR reported that No White Saviors, which had connected the mothers in the first lawsuit to Kwagala for representation, was also working with Okot on other cases against Bach. No White Saviors said in a September 2023 post on X that the second case was "still ongoing" and that it was "hopeful that the affected families will one day get justice." But Bach's legal counsel David Gibbs III told Insider that the lawsuit referenced by The Guardian and No White Saviors had "never been served on Renee," and that they had "never seen it." He confirmed to Insider that to his knowledge, the only lawsuit filed against Bach was the one that had been settled in 2020. When reached for comment, No White Saviors and Okot told Insider that the case was still ongoing. Okot told Insider that Bach's legal team was trying to "deliberately avoid being served," and that his team had unsuccessfully attempted to contact Gibbs in the past regarding court summons from Uganda. He said his team is attempting to serve Bach in Virginia. Regarding Okot's comments, Gibbs told Insider that that Bach "is not deliberately avoiding anything," and that he had not been aware the case had been filed nor been in contact with Okot. The Judiciary of The Republic of Uganda did not immediately respond to Insider's request for information on the case. Read the original article on Insider These businesses provide various services to help college students adjust to life away from home, especially if they are living in a new country or state Getty College student hugging mother in dormitory room Students at colleges across the United States can now rent a mom to give them guidance and assistance as they navigate their new lives. These businesses pride themselves on providing various services to college students to help them adjust to life away from home, especially if they are living in a new country or state. In Boston, Concierge Services for Students offers round-the-clock service to its customers which costs $10,000 per academic year, according to The Wall Street Journal. CSS Boston accepts no more than 30 clients per year, and about 75% of their clientele are college students. Founded in 1990, CSS Boston offers dozens of services to students, including personal help such as laundry, grocery shopping, banking; school assistance, from campus acclimation to tutoring to course selection; as well as housing issues such as apartment hunting and moving assistance. (It also offers property management and patient services, according to the company's website.) Related: Mom Protects Son as Black Bear Jumps on Picnic Table and Devours Teen's Birthday Dinner Joan Alfond and Tamara Kumin, who co-founded CSS Boston, came up with the idea for the business after noticing how much time they each spend visiting their children at prep school, "recogniz[ing] the need for these students to have a 'mom away from home.'" CSS Boston did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment. Mindy Horwitz followed a similar path. She created her business, mindyKnows, four years ago after noticing parents looking for information about Washington University in St. Louis and the surrounding area that only locals would know, the WSJ and The Daily Northwestern report. "We started this business in 2019 as a service to parents," a spokesperson for mindyKnows tells PEOPLE, explaining that the company has "experts" who "can help alleviate the stress of navigating a new town." 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. In the years since, Horwitz claims to have helped hundreds of families, with a spokesperson for the company telling PEOPLE, "the reaction we have received has been overwhelming." Her service at Washington University is just $450 per academic year (plus delivery fees) or $1,600 for four years, according to her website. The business has even expanded to three other campuses, including Northwestern University, for $500 per year, as well as Skidmore College and University of Hartford, with each costing $450 per year. Meanwhile, Rachelle Arnold has found success at the University of Tampa with her "rent a mom" business, Daisy Bug Delivery, according to WSJ and FOX affiliate WSVN. She said she and the companys employees take a personal interest in each student they assist. I will come and get you. It's free. I love. I don't judge, Arnold told WSVN. We don't tell the parents unless there's a safety issue involved." Related: Wis. Sisters Are Going to College Alongside Their Mom and Grandma: 'Age Is No Deterrent in Education' Like CSS Boston, Daisy Bug Delivery costs $10,000 per academic year for the full package, WSVN reported. Students can also request individual services, such as pre-scheduled airport transportation, pet sitting, assistance with urgent care and emergency room visits. Some have wondered if the service is truly helpful, or if it enables young people to lean on others to do unfamiliar things for them. But some of those who own these businesses have pushed back against that notion. I dont think were hand-holding, Heather Metz, who runs mindyKnows at the Northwestern campus, told The Daily Northwestern. I mean, Im not ironing sheets. I think some people might have the wrong impression that we are preventing students from becoming independent, Horwitz also told the outlet. Additionally, a spokesperson for her company tells PEOPLE, Our students are independent thinkers and [they] navigate their own college experience. We simply help fill in the holes on the behalf of the parents. Related: College Student Gets Assigned Same Dorm Room Where Her Mom Lived 33 Years Ago: 'We Both Screamed' The services also seemingly help ease the stress of college life on families as a whole. Douglas Feirstein told WSJ that he hired the business to help his daughter Emma unpack and organize her dorm two years ago, when she first arrived at Washington University. We were able to spend more stress-free time with Emma, Feirstein explained. A spokesperson for mindyKnow says, "We have helped families with such a wide range of needs and they are so grateful to have support and local resources." For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. MSC Cruises, a leading cruise brand, announced on Thursday that it will open its first office in Saudi Arabia in November and also launch a brand-new itinerary from Jeddah as a further demonstration of its commitment to support the kingdoms plans for its tourism sector. Details were unveiled in Riyadh by Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of the MSC Group, as he attended the United Nations World Tourism Organizations (UNWTO) World Tourism Day conference. The new office will be based in Jeddah and house the commercial, sales and marketing functions for both MSC Cruises and its sister company, Explora Journeys, a new luxury cruise brand that began operations in July this year. MSC Cruises added that it will start its third season of Red Sea voyages from Jeddah in two months time with a new sailing itinerary for international and Saudi Arabia-based holidaymakers. The 294-metre-long 16 deck MSC Orchestra can accommodate up to 2,550 passengers and will operate from Jeddah for six months and offer 20 separate seven-night sailings to Aqaba in Jordan to visit Petra and three destinations in Egypt - Sharm El-Sheikh, Sokhna Port for Cairo and Safaga for Luxor - before returning to the Saudi port. In 2024, Explora Journeys second ship Explora II will sail in the Middle East in 2024 and visit Jeddah to enable its passengers to visit the city as well as Al Ula and Hegra. Vago said: We are honoured to have played an important role partnering with the key government bodies to stimulate the establishment of the cruise industry in Saudi Arabia. Initially starting with local cruises during the pandemic and then international passengers from 124 different countries. We look forward to our third season of cruises from Saudi Arabia for local and international visitors to support the Saudi Vision 2030 and we are pleased to be able to work together to establish the Kingdom as a popular cruise destination. Thanks to our global distribution, we are able to bring international passengers to Saudi Arabia to experience the richness of the countrys heritage and its ability to preserve its traditions and culture all whilst enjoying the incredible experience on board the cruise ship. He added: MSC has had a presence in the Kingdom since 1996 and our shipping business here has grown exponentially and been an important contributor to the local economy. We are very pleased that on the leisure side of things cruising is growing in popularity in Saudi Arabia and as such is playing an increasingly important role for us. We are seeing more of the Kingdoms citizens and residents attracted to the great proposition that cruising offers and as such it is important for us to have a physical presence within the country. We are very much looking forward to opening the doors of our new office that will be dedicated to selling MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys for our local customers. MSC Cruises has seen its passenger numbers soar by 40 per cent for Saudi Arabia voyages in a 24-month period with visitors from 124 international nationalities experiencing the kingdom when its ships are berthed in the country. The top five oversea visitor nations for cruises in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf were Italy, Germany, Spain, France and the US. The company forecasts it will bring up to 200,000 tourists by sea to Saudi Arabia by the end of 2023, making this is significant part of the Kingdoms Vision 2030 to have more international visitors enjoy the unique culture of the country. MSC Group, the parent company of MSC Cruises, is the leading privately held shipping and logistics conglomerate, and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. It serves the Kingdom and the region from three main offices in Dammam, Jeddah and Riyadh with 175 employees. A range of projects are currently underway to further develop MSCs shipping business in Dammam, King Abdullah Port, Jeddah, Riyadh and Neom. MSC Cruises is the worlds third largest cruise brand as well as the market share leader in Europe, South America, the Middle East and Southern Africa. It is also the fastest growing global cruise brand with a strong presence in the Caribbean, North America and the Far East markets. MSC Cruises has a modern and environmentally advanced fleet of 22 vessels with a 23rd ship due to be delivered in 2025. -TradeArabia News Service The likelihood of a government shutdown continues to loom as Sunday's deadline for Congress to agree on a federal budget draws closer. Facing the possibility of the first shutdown since 2019, millions of Americans are bracing for disruptions in services ranging from TSA and air traffic control to delays in WIC and SNAP benefits. Among those poised to take the hardest hits are employees of the federal government itself, a workforce over four million people. If politicians fail to reach an agreement by 12:01 a.m. on Oct. 1, hundreds of thousands of these employees may either find themselves out of work for an unknown amount of time or may be expected to continue reporting to duty without pay. A sign is displayed on a government building that was closed because of a US government shutdown in Washington, DC, on December 22, 2018. During the last shutdown, roughly 800,000 employees were affected by furloughs of some kind, causing hardship for many. This time around, the ripple effect may extend even further, resulting in an even larger number of furloughed workers. What exactly is a furlough and how does it differ from other forms of leave? Are furloughed workers ever paid? Here's a brief look at what the government shutdown would entail for federal employees. Thursday updates: Live updates: Is a government shutdown going to happen? How does it affect you? What to know What is a furlough? A furlough is a temporary leave of absence imposed by an employer, typically due to economic hardship, company expenses outpacing revenue or a lack of work. Affected employees are required to take time off work on a temporary basis, sometimes without pay. Furloughs can come in the form of reduced hours of work per day, fewer days of work per week or month or no work at all for extended periods of time. Furloughed employees are technically still employed and therefore do not qualify for things like severance pay but may be able to get temporary work elsewhere during their leave, depending on state rules and company policies. How a shutdown impacts you: Updates on the impending government shutdown: How does it affect you? Everything to know. Story continues How are furloughs different from layoffs? A furlough is a form of temporary leave, meaning employees keep their positions and are eventually expected to return to work. Furloughed employees often keep their benefits during the leave period. A layoff refers to the permanent termination of an employee or employees for economic or business reasons. Generally, layoffs happen with groups of workers for reasons such as downsizing, cost cutting or lack of work. Losing work temporarily by a furlough or permanently by layoff both differ from being fired, which entails employee wrongdoing as cause for termination. Furloughs and layoffs occur with no fault of the employees but are instead imposed by employers. What looming shutdown means for travel: What government shutdown would mean for travel. Here's what to know What government workers would be furloughed? Employees working for agencies funded by appropriations determined by Congress will be impacted. Those who have not already had a budget approved when the shutdown occurs are required to close, though some services and workers considered to be essential will continue operating. Agencies that may close or reduce services include: TSA and air traffic control Federal law enforcement and active-duty military National parks and visitor centers Smithsonian museums, zoos and other attractions Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and other government assistance programs such as Head Start and federally funded preschools, though Social Security and Medicare benefits will not be disrupted Federal student loan servicers The last shutdown: When was the last US government shutdown? How long did it last? A brief history of gridlock Do furloughed employees get paid? While some furloughed employees do continue to receive pay depending on state and company policy, federal employees do not receive pay during a government shutdown. During a shutdown, agencies that receive funding from the federal government who have not yet had budgets approved by Congress are required to close, placing employees on shutdown furlough." They are not entitled to use vacation days or other paid time off to supplement the unpaid time. Employees who are considered essential continue to work, though without pay. Likewise, federal contractors, or people not employed full time by the federal government but who make an agreement to do a specific job, will also not be paid. The Government Employee Fair Treatment Act passed in 2019 requires impacted federal employees receive backpay and leave accrued during a shutdown. It also ensures employees who are required to continue working during the shutdown are able to take already scheduled leave without penalty. However, these protections do not extend to contractors. Why shutdowns keep happening: US government shutdowns used to be rare. Thats increasingly no longer the case When was the last government shutdown and how many workers were furloughed then? The last shutdown happened in Late December 2018 and lasted 35 days into January 2019, impacting roughly 800,000 of the 2.1 million workers employed by the federal government at the time. Of the 800,000 affected, 380,000 were furloughed while the rest continued to report for work. When that shutdown occurred, Congress had already appropriated funds for some agencies, which allowed those agencies to continue operating as normal. Do furloughed workers get benefits? Yes, benefits including health insurance remain active for furloughed employees, even during the shutdown. Those who have employee contributions to their health coverage automatically deducted from paychecks will be charged for the unpaid amount accumulated during the shutdown for up to a year. This total is subtracted from their backpay when they are once again receiving paychecks. Retroactive payments also apply to retirement benefits and are also pulled from backpay issued to the employee upon returning to paid status. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What is a furlough? What to know as possible government shutdown looms Admit it, you kinda missed Jigsaw. Sure, Spiral, the most recent entry in the hugely successful Saw horror film franchise, had Chris Rock in the cast. But a copycat killer just doesnt compare to the original, John Kramer, played so indelibly by Tobin Bell in every other film in the series. Fans of these twisted torture porn films (whose names should probably be registered with local authorities) will be happy to hear that Bell is back in the 10th and newest entry, imaginatively titled Saw X, and that he has more screen time than ever before. Thats what not being dead anymore will do for a character. More from The Hollywood Reporter To explain for those unfamiliar with the franchise, Bells character John Kramer, who was nicknamed Jigsaw for grisly reasons which need not be explained here, died at the end of Saw 3. But that didnt keep the films producers from bringing him back in future installments in the form of flashbacks and recordings. Theyve now gone backward in time for this film, which takes place between the events of Saw and Saw II. Hope you got all that, because therell be a test at the end of this review. Anyway, in this film Kramer is still suffering from the terminal cancer that would actually not be the thing to kill him (look it up if you must). This provides the ironic opportunity to see Jigsaw whos put more people than you can count through gruesome tortures that often led to their deaths participating in a support group for cancer sufferers. But hey, every villain has a sensitive side, especially when it comes to their own demise. When he later runs into a fellow group member (Michael Beach) who has made a remarkable recovery, Kramer finds out about a life-saving treatment devised by a Norwegian doctor that naturally hasnt been approved in the U.S. So, after contacting the doctors daughter, Cecilia (Synnove Macody Lund), whos taken over the practice, he heads to Mexico and undergoes the supposedly life-saving surgery at a secret clinic outside Mexico City. It all turns out to be a scam, of course, with the doctors, nurses and even the driver who picked Kramer up from the airport all part of the con. And if theres one person you dont want to con, its John Kramer, who soon turns the tables on all of them by capturing them and subjecting them to his very particular brand of gamesmanship. Aiding him in his efforts is his trusted apprentice Amanda (Shawnee Smith), who was at this point still his trusted ally. (That both Bell and fan favorite Smith are many years older than when they originally played their characters in this time frame is just something youll have to get over.) It takes a little longer than usual, but Saw X eventually gets around to its true raison detre, which is depicting in gory detail the ways in which Jigsaws victims either succeed or fail at extricating themselves from the gruesome, Rube Goldberg-style death traps hes devised for them. It usually involves having to make horrible choices, such as (in this films case) having to saw off your legs to prevent yourself from being decapitated, breaking your arm and foot to stop yourself from being irradiated to death, and cracking open your skull and removing your own brain matter to well, you get the idea. This is the sort of horror film in which a character using someones intestines as a lasso is simply par for the course. You guys are fucking sick, an observer tells Kramer and Amanda, and its hard to disagree with him. (Who needs critics when the characters do the work for you?) Nonetheless, these films are undeniably fiendishly clever in the way they make Kramer somehow sympathetic even while hes doing monstrous things to people. As he frequently likes to point out, he never does any actual killing his victims always have the opportunity to survive if they just have enough guts (sometimes literally). Early in the film, when Cecilia asks him what he does for a living, Kramer tells her, I help people overcome personal obstacles, and you halfway believe him. You wind up cheering him on, both because his victims are so reprehensible and because hes so damn ingenious in his diabolical engineering skills. None of this would work nearly as well without Bell, whose raspy voice and menacing gravitas are so riveting that he makes Jigsaws oft-repeated declaration Id like to play a game scary as hell. Hes made the character truly iconic, much like Robert Englund did with Freddy Krueger. Accept no substitutions. Best of The Hollywood Reporter Click here to read the full article. Charges against Barry Morphew were dropped without prejudice in 2022, meaning they could be filed again suzanne morphew/Facebook Barry Morphew, Suzanne Morphew The husband of Suzanne Morphew, whose remains were found last week three years after her disappearance, has said he is struggling with immense shock and grief along with his daughters, according to a statement from his lawyer, which was obtained by PEOPLE. Suzanne's remains were located on Sep. 22 and positively identified on Wednesday by the El Paso County Coroner in Colorado, PEOPLE reported previously. She went missing in May 2020 after she went on a bike ride and didnt return to her home in Chaffee County, Colo. Barry Morphew's statement, issued by his lawyer, Iris Eytan, said that he and his daughters "had faith that their wife and mom would walk back into their lives again." Barry was charged with first-degree murder a year after his wifes disappearance, along with tampering with physical evidence and attempting to influence a public servant. Barry pleaded not guilty and his trial was set to begin in April 2022, but Assistant District Attorney Linda Stanley dropped the charges without prejudice. This means that charges can be re-filed against Barry at a later time. In the motion, prosecutors said that they believed they were close to finding Suzanne's body and that they have a good faith reason to believe further investigation into this matter is essential to answering the most consequential question presented by this case. Related: Husband of Missing Mom Suzanne Morphew Said Police Botched Case, Are Trying to 'Blame It on Me' At the time, Eytan said even if Suzannes body was found, it's not gonna be linked to Mr. Morphew, PEOPLE reported. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. Suzannes sister said in a local radio show that the missing mother had indicated that she had concerns about her safety before her disappearance. When contacted on Thursday, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, which made the announcement about the identification of Suzannes body, did not comment on whether Barry will face renewed charges now that a body has been found. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. The post How to Get Tickets to Tina Fey and Amy Poehlers Restless Leg Tour appeared first on Consequence. Tina Fey and Amy Poehler have expanded their ongoing Restless Leg Tour, pushing the pairs joint standup comedy circuit into 2024. Find seats here, and read on for more details including pre-sale dates. What Is Tina Fey and Amy Poehlers Next Tour? The Restless Leg Tour kicked off in Spring 2023 as a means to celebrate 30 years of friendship between the two comedy veterans. The performance features individual standup sets, shared conversations and stories, an audience Q&A, and more. The ongoing tour continues in 2023 with multiple shows in Denver, Austin, Las Vegas, and Philadelphia. The duo resume in 2024 with two nights in Portland, Oregon on January 12th and 13th, followed by stops to Atlanta, San Francisco, and Oakland to close out the first month of the year. The trek will conclude with the two SNL alums shouting Live from New York during a four-night residency at New York Citys Beacon Theatre on February 7th, 8th, 9th, and 11th. Who Is Opening for Tina Fey and Amy Poehler on Tour? The Restless Leg Tour will feature support from comedian Zarna Garg on select dates. Also, keep in mind that special guests who have made an appearance thus far include Seth Meyers and Rachel Dratch. How Can I Get Tickets for Tina Fey and Amy Poehlers 2023-2024 Tour? Tickets for the Restless Leg Tour can be claimed via artist pre-sale, which is ongoing (using access code RESTLESS) via Ticketmaster. A Live Nation pre-sale is open as well through Thursday, September 28th (using access code STUDIO). General public on-sale begins on Friday, September 29th at 10:00 a.m. local time via Ticketmaster. Alternatively, check for seats and deals to all of Tina and Amys upcoming live performances via StubHub, where orders are 100% guaranteed through StubHubs FanProtect program. StubHub is a secondary market ticketing platform, and prices may be higher or lower than face value, depending on demand. What Are Tina Fey and Amy Poehlers 2023-2024 Tour Dates? See Tina and Amys full list of tour dates below, and get tickets to all of their future shows here. Tina Fey and Amy Poehler 2023-2024 Tour Dates: 09/30 Denver, CO @ Temple Hoyne Buell Theatre 10/01 Denver, CO @ Bellco Theatre (early show) 10/01 Denver, CO @ Bellco Theatre (late show) 10/12 Austin, TX @ Bass Concert Hall 10/13 Austin, TX @ Bass Concert Hall 10/14 Austin, TX @ Bass Concert Hall (early show) 10/14 Austin, TX @ Bass Concert Hall (late show) 10/15 Austin, TX @ Bass Concert Hall 11/08 Highland, CA @ Yaamava Theater 11/10 Las Vegas, NV @ Resorts World Theatre 11/11 Las Vegas, NV @ Resorts World Theatre 12/14 Philadelphia, PA @ The Met 12/15 Philadelphia, PA @ The Met 12/16 Philadelphia, PA @ The Met (early show) 12/16 Philadelphia, PA @ The Met (late show) 01/12 Portland, OR @ Alaska Airlines Theater of the Clouds 01/13 Portland, OR @ Alaska Airlines Theater of the Clouds (early show) 01/13 Portland, OR @ Alaska Airlines Theater of the Clouds (late show) 01/19 Atlanta, GA @ Fox Theatre 01/26 San Francisco, CA @ The Masonic 01/27 Oakland, CA @ Paramount Theatre 02/07 New York, NY @ Beacon Theatre 02/08 New York, NY @ Beacon Theatre 02/09 New York, NY @ Beacon Theatre 02/11 New York, NY @ Beacon Theatre How to Get Tickets to Tina Fey and Amy Poehlers Restless Leg Tour Bryan Kress Popular Posts Subscribe to Consequences email digest and get the latest breaking news in music, film, and television, tour updates, access to exclusive giveaways, and more straight to your inbox. If Resident Aliens Harry Vanderspeigle (Alan Tudyk) really did crash land in Colorado a few years back, he and his craft might have been recovered by shadowy government agencies and whisked away to a secret facility that doesnt officially exist. At least, thats what might have happened if UFO conspiracy theorists are correct. Over the last several months theres been an uptick in UAP (unidentified anomalous phenomena) reports here in the real world, punctuated by whistleblower David Grusch testifying before congress about an alleged government-run UFO recovery and reverse engineering project. Now, weve got even more UAPs to mull over thanks to a release from Customs and Border Protections. Customs and Border Patrol Releases UAP Documents In early August and with little fanfare, the United States Customs and Border Patrol released 10 videos depicting reported UAPs along with 387 pages of supporting documents including testimony from eyewitnesses. RELATED: We May Have Found and Killed Martian Life 50 Years Ago The videos, some of which leaked a few years back, have added fuel to the already raging fire of public discourse around flying saucers. One video in particular, from 2013, shows an unidentifiable spot flying over an airport. The video is black and white, and the footage is grainy. The object, whatever it is, cruises over the airport at what appears to be a consistent rate, on a path taking it toward the ocean. It doesnt look all that unusual. If youd tell us it was a bird or a small UAV, wed probably believe it. The trouble starts when it gets near the water and appears to change shape. Shortly thereafter, the object seems to disappear, reappear, then vanish for good. Some viewers have interpreted that as the object having dipped beneath the water and emerged again, seemingly without losing any speed. That would be an impressive engineering achievement, but the video is so poor, it could just as easily be a digital artifact. The important thing is what we know, and that is not equivalent to extraterrestrials. Weve filled the space around us with a growing number of cameras and orbiting satellites, and theyre all recording all the time. More than that, we (humans) are creating more technology, some of which isnt public knowledge. It was probably inevitable that we would start to catch things on camera that we cant explain. But theres a pretty big gap between look at that weird thing and I bet it came from across the stars. Still, there is some weird stuff going on in the sky and we should devote some resources to figuring out what it is. Schumer Proposes UAP Transparency Bill With that in mind, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD) introduced an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act which would establish a structure for how and when UAP documents would be released to the public. RELATED: NASA Releases Details of Organization's UFO Investigation For decades, many Americans have been fascinated by objects mysterious and unexplained and its long past time they get some answers. The American public has a right to learn about technologies of unknown origins, non-human intelligence, and unexplainable phenomena. We are not only working to declassify what the government has previously learned about these phenomena but to create a pipeline for future research to be made public. I am honored to carry on the legacy of my mentor and dear friend, Harry Reid and fight for the transparency that the public has long demanded surround these unexplained phenomena, Schumer said, in a statement. The bill requires that government agencies turn over any UAP information they possess within 300 days of the act going into effect. Meanwhile, President Biden has 90 days to form a review board to investigate those documents. Finally, that board will have 180 days to review any information and an additional 14 days to publish their findings. All of which is to say were at least a year and a half out from seeing the extraterrestrial goods, if any goods should exist. In the meantime, catch up on the first two seasons of SYFY's Resident Alien, streaming now on Peacock. At least 75,500 ethnic Armenian refugees have now fled Nagorno-Karabakh, in the last five days, which is more than half the disputed enclave's population, local authorities said Thursday, as the exodus from the region continues to accelerate. It is feared the enclave's whole population will likely flee in the coming days, unwilling to remain under Azerbaijan's rule following its successful military offensive last week that defeated the ethnic Armenian separatist authorities and restored Azerbaijan's control after over three decades. The leader of Nagorno-Karabakh's unrecognized Armenian state, the Republic of Artsakh, on Thursday announced its dissolution, signing a decree that it will "cease to exist" by Jan. 1, 2024. MORE: Over 50,000 Armenians have now fled from enclave, fearing Azerbaijan De facto President Samvel Shahramanyan signed the decree declaring that "all state institutions" will be dissolved. A statement describing the decree said based on the ceasefire agreement last week, Azerbaijan would allow the unhindered travel of all residents, including military personnel who laid down their arms. The local population should make their own decisions about the "possibility of staying (or returning)," the statement said. The decree marks an end to Armenian control over the enclave, which is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan and has been at the center of one of the world's most intractable conflicts for 35 years. PHOTO: Disputed Region for Armenia Refugees (ABC News Illustration) Ethnic Armenians have lived for centuries in Nagorno-Karabakh. The current conflict dates back to the collapse of the Soviet Union, when Armenian separatists declared the republic and tried to break away from Azerbaijan. Armenia and Azerbaijan waged a bloody war over the enclave that saw hundreds of thousands of Azerbaijani civilians driven from the region and ended with the ethnic Armenians in control of most of Nagorno-Karabakh. Azerbaijan reopened the conflict in 2020, defeating Armenia and forcing it to distance itself from the Karabakh Armenians. Russia brokered a peace agreement and deployed peacekeepers, who remain in Nagorno-Karabakh. Last week, after blockading the enclave for nine months, Azerbaijan launched a new offensive that defeated the Karabakh Armenian forces in two days. Since Sunday, tens of thousands of ethnic Armenian civilians have left Nagorno-Karabakh after Azerbaijan opened the road out to Armenia. MORE: Death toll rises in blast that killed dozens of Armenian refugees Those leaving say they fear life under Azerbaijan will be intolerable and that they will face persecution. Shortages of food, medicine and fuel have been reported inside the enclave. Those fleeing describe spending 30 hours in traffic jams to leave. Siranush Sargsyan, a local freelance journalist living in Nagorno-Karabakh, told Reuters it was impossible for ethnic Armenians to remain. "Of course I'm going to leave, because this place is too small for both of us. If they are here, we have to leave. We don't want to leave, but we don't have [any] other choice," she said. PHOTO: Refugees sit on the back of a truck with loaded belongings near Kornidzor, Armenia on Sept. 28, 2023. (Alain Jocard/AFP via Getty Images) Azerbaijan charged a former leader of the Karabakh Armenians with terrorism offenses on Thursday after detaining him a day earlier when he tried to leave the enclave with other refugees. Ruben Vardanyan, a billionaire who made his fortune in Moscow, moved to Nagorno-Karabakh in 2022 and served as the head of its government for several months before stepping down earlier this year. A court in Azerbaijan's capital Baku charged him on Thursday with financing terrorism and creating an illegal armed group, which carries a potential maximum 14-year sentence. The United States and other Western countries have expressed concern for the ethnic Armenian population. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev this week and urged him to provide international access to the enclave. PHOTO: Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh walk along the road from Nagorno-Karabakh to Kornidzor in Syunik region, Armenia, Sept. 26, 2023. (Vasily Krestyaninov/AP) 70,000 Armenians, half of disputed enclave's population, have now fled originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Republican presidential candidates are on the debate stage tonight for the second time ahead of the 2024 primary. Follow along here with the USA TODAY Fact Check Team as we dig into candidates' claims and add context on expected campaign themes, including election fraud, the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, the war in Ukraine and more. More: Republican debate updates: GOP Candidates face off in California The truth, directly in your inbox: Sign up for the Checking the Facts newsletter Here's some background from our archives on topics we expect to see through the campaign and perhaps this evening: Tim Scott claim: Nikki Haley spent $50,000 on curtains as the UN ambassador As the UN ambassador, you literally put $50,000 on curtains. -Scott This is false, and Nikki Haley has a New York Times correction to prove it. The Times published an article in September 2018 suggesting Haley made the decision to purchase customized and mechanized curtains for picture windows in the official residence for the ambassador to the United Nations, a role that she was serving in at the time. The outlet later issued a correction saying the article and headline created an unfair impression about Haleys involvement in the purchase. Its correction said the purchasing decision was made during the Obama administration and that Haley was not involved. Haley said as much in responding to Scott, who asked if she sent the pricey curtains back. Haley responded by saying Scott was scrapping. BrieAnna Frank Mike Pence claim: Trump administration oversaw record-low unemployment for Blacks, Hispanics "We saw literally the lowest unemployment ever recorded for Hispanic Americans, lowest unemployment ever recorded for African Americans." - Pence The unemployment rates for Blacks and Latinos fell to new lows in 2019 specifically, 4% for Hispanics or Latinos in September 2019 and 5.3% for Blacks in August 2019. But this cherry-picked data ignores that these rates have fallen even lower under Trump's democratic successor. In September 2022, the Hispanic or Latino unemployment rate hit a record low of 3.9%, and in April the Black unemployment rate hit a record low of 4.7%, according to Federal Reserve Economic Data. Read more: -Chris Mueller Nikki Haley claim: China is stealing $600 billion in intellectual property Haley is offering a precise figure in an area experts say is difficult to quantify, and her figure is the high extreme of an estimated range. The Commission on the Theft of American Intellectual Property, a bipartisan and independent group, estimated in 2018 that Chinese intellectual property theft costs the U.S. between $225 billion and $600 billion annually. The FBI estimated in 2019 that the annual cost of all counterfeit goods, pirated software and theft of trade secrets is between $225 billion and $600 billion. The report from the FBI states that China is the worlds principal infringer of intellectual property, and it uses its laws and regulations to put foreign companies at a disadvantage and its own companies at an advantage. -Brad Sylvester Mike Pence claim: US became net energy exporter under Trump Under Donald Trump, "We became a net exporter of energy for the first time in 75 years." - Pence This is accurate. The U.S. has been an "annual net total energy exporter" since 2019, when Donald Trump was still president, according to the Energy Information Administration. This was a reversal of the prior seven decades. "Up to the early 1950s, the United States produced most of the energy it consumed," the administration's website says. "U.S. energy consumption was higher than U.S. energy production in every year from 1958 (to) 2018." In 2022, the country's total energy exports were the highest on record, having increased more than 9% from 2021. Read more: -Chris Mueller Vivek Ramaswamy claim: Ukraine banned 11 opposition parties Just because Putins an evil dictator does not mean that Ukraine is good. This is a country that has banned 11 opposition parties. - Ramaswamy This happened, but Ramaswamy left out key details on why. Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskyy announced in March 2022 that Ukraine suspended 11 political parties because of their ties to Russia, as reported by The Guardian. The announcement came one month after Russia launched its invasion of the country. Therefore, the national security and defense council decided, given the full-scale war unleashed by Russia, and the political ties that a number of political structures have with this state, to suspend any activity of a number of political parties for the period of martial law, Zelenskyy said, according to the outlet. Ukraines parliament voted in July to extend the countrys martial law until Nov. 15, Reuters reported. BrieAnna Frank (From left) Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy debate during the FOX Business Republican presidential primary debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. Ron DeSantis claim: Toddler died after fentanyl exposure at Florida AirBNB In Florida we had an infant, 18 months, parents rented an AirBNB. And apparently the people who rented it before were using drugs. The infant was crawling, the toddler was crawling on the carpet and ingested fentanyl residue and died. DeSantis The Florida governor was talking about the death of 19-month-old Enora Lavenir. The girl died in 2021 while she and her family stayed at a rental property in Wellington, Florida, while they visited from France, according to a report from the Palm Beach Post on the wrongful death lawsuit her family filed in March in Palm Beach County. The lawsuit alleges that the home was not properly cleaned after a party was held there in which fentanyl and other drugs were present. But official reports have not yet confirmed that. The county medical examiners office ruled her death accidental and said it was caused by acute fentanyl toxicity. It is not clear how the child ingested the substance, and an incident report from the county sheriffs office did not indicate how the toddler was exposed to the drug, according to the newspaper report. She was napping on the afternoon of Aug. 7, 2021, when her mother found her unresponsive. She was taken to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Joedy McCreary Chris Christie claim: Trump built 52 miles of border wall "(Trump) built 52 miles of wall and said Mexico would pay for it." The length of border wall built by the Trump administration varies based on how it's counted. A count based on U.S. Customs and Border Protection data puts the total at 458 miles, but many of those additions replaced existing barriers. PolitiFact reported in August that a CBP report says former President Donald Trump's administration built "52 miles of new primary wall systems and 33 miles of new secondary wall systems where there were none before." Some experts say Trump's replacement barriers shouldn't be set aside because they replaced inferior barriers. For example, nearly 200 miles of short fencing, around 3 to 4 feet high, that is intended to stop vehicles was replaced with 18- to 30-foot steel barriers, according to a Cato Institute report. Read more: -Chris Mueller Former New Jersey Gov.EChris Christie speaks with Florida Gov.ERon DeSantis during a break in the FOX Business Republican presidential primary debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. Nikki Haley claim: Fentanyl has killed more Americans than the wars in Vietnam, Afghanistan and Iraq Fentanyl has killed more Americans "than the Iraq, Vietnam or Afghanistan wars combined." -Haley The number of U.S. deaths in the Vietnam, Afghanistan and Iraq wars totals about 65,000 people. In 2021 alone, there was a total of 106,000 drug overdose deaths reported in the U.S., including about 70,000 involving synthetic opioids other than methadone, which is primarily fentanyl, according to the National Institutes of Health. That makes Haley's claim true. Read more: -Chris Mueller Doug Burgum claim: 'China controls 85% of the rare earth minerals' This claim is true. China dominates the rare earth market. The country accounts for at least 85% of the worlds capacity to process rare earth minerals, according to the research firm Adamas Intelligence. The research firm reported in September that China upped its mining quotas to 240,000 tons, a 14% increase from last year. Relaxed environmental laws have helped China gain an advantage over other countries in rare mineral production, according to Reuters. Rare earth alloys and magnets are key components in the use of some military equipment, such as missiles, firearms, radars and stealth aircraft, according to Politico. Rare earth materials are also needed for more familiar technologies, including smartphones, electric vehicles and LED lights, according to the Science History Institute. -Brad Sylvester (From left) Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy and South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott spar during the FOX Business Republican presidential primary debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. Tim Scott claim: First bill under Biden had $86 billion for union pensions We should look back at the first bill in Congress under Joe Biden. The first bill had $86 billion for the union pensions, because they continue to overpromise but underdeliver. Scott Scotts numbers were right, but he was a bit off on his timing. He was talking about the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package that included $86 billion in aid for about 185 union pension plans that were near collapse, The New York Times reported at the time. But it wasnt the first bill during that term, according a search of the Congressional website. Dozens of other bills and procedural actions were introduced first. It was first proposed a week before Bidens inauguration in early January 2021, according to CNN. But it wasnt until Feb. 24, 2021, that it was formally introduced in the House by Kentucky Democrat John Yarmuth. Joedy McCreary Tim Scott claim: 6 million illegal border crossings under Biden Data from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection show its agents have had more than 6.2 million encounters at the southwest border since January 2021, when Biden took office. Encounters include both apprehensions, when a person is taken into U.S. custody under Title 8 of the U.S. code, and expulsions, when they are immediately expelled to their home countries or last country of transit without being taken into U.S. custody, according to the Pew Research Center. Illegal border crossings climbed to near-record levels in September, CBS News reported. December 2022 saw more than 250,000 crossings both the highest number during Bidens term and the highest number ever recorded. Nikki Haley referenced the same statistic later in the debate. BrieAnna Frank Chris Christie claim: Donald Trump added $7 trillion to our national debt Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie touted this stat in asserting a lack of fiscal restraint by Republicans, echoing a claim Nikki Haley made in the August Republican debate. Haley said the figure was $8 billion, which is a little closer. Using Treasury Department data, the total public debt, which includes intragovernmental holdings and public debt, increased by approximately $7.8 trillion from the start of Trumps presidency on Jan. 20, 2017, to when he left office on Jan. 19, 2021. Read more: False claim Trump increased debt more than any president | Fact check -Eric Litke Election integrity a key issue for GOP candidates A key issue for the candidates is whether they will trust and abide by the elections that will decide the winners and losers. State-level reviews of the 2022 midterm elections found no indication of systemic problems with voter fraud. Thats significant because allegations from Trump and his allies have penetrated the Republican Party and eroded confidence in the process. Several candidates have championed changes to address election integrity. DeSantis created Floridas Office of Election Crimes and Security. A year ago, his administration accused 20 felons ineligible to vote in 2020 of illegally casting ballots and charged them with third-degree felonies. Haley as governor signed a law in 2011 that requires South Carolina voters to show photo ID. Christie vetoed a bill in 2016 that would automatically register New Jerseyans to vote when they obtain or renew their drivers license, calling it a cocktail of fraud, NJ.com reported. Misinformation has circulated about the integrity of the elections. Here are some that have been debunked: Joedy McCreary US aid to Ukraine divides Republican candidates More than a year and a half after Russia's invasion of Ukraine began, there remain differing views among Republican presidential candidates when it comes to continuing U.S. support for Ukraine's defense. Trump, who isnt on the debate stage, has repeatedly suggested the U.S. is providing too much support to Ukraine. He has also refused to say whether he wants Russia or Ukraine to prevail in the conflict. DeSantis has also been skeptical of U.S. support for Ukraine, saying in a March statement that the war is a "territorial dispute between Ukraine and Russia" and not one of the country's "vital national interests." In a Fox News interview, Ramaswamy said the U.S. has done enough to help Ukraine. Pence, who visited Ukraine in June, has said he supports providing Ukraine with military aid to fight back against Russia. Christie too has said he supports continuing U.S. support for Ukraine, as does Scott. Haley, though, has said U.S. support should not come in the form of cash or troops on the ground, but through collaborating with allies to be sure Ukraine has "the equipment and the ammunition to win." The candidates' varied views seem to reflect public opinion. A poll by the Pew Research Center found 44% of Republicans and Republican-leaning independents say, as of June, that the U.S. is providing too much aid to Ukraine. The war in Ukraine has frequently been the subject of misinformation, including: Chris Mueller Pence makes Jan. 6 a key part of campaign The Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riots loom large during the campaign because two of that days central figures Trump and Pence are in the race. Trump has repeatedly and falsely claimed that Pence had the power to overturn the 2020 election results while he presided over the ceremonial certification process. Pence has made his handling of the days events a central theme of his campaign, saying he chose loyalty to the Constitution over demands from Trump to give him the election. In the worst attack on the Capitol in 200 years, a mob of thousands of Trump supporters overwhelmed police and raided the building on the day lawmakers formalized Bidens victory. Some rioters chanted that they wanted Pence hanged. Other candidates have brought up the attacks, with DeSantis calling it not an insurrection but a protest that ended up devolving, you know, in a way that was unfortunate. Ramaswamy blamed the riots on pervasive censorship and called it unproductive to point the finger at Trump who faces four charges and is accused of organizing a conspiracy to steal the 2020 election from President Joe Biden. Three men involved in the riots are asking the Supreme Court to erase part of their indictment. If the justices hear their appeals, their decisions could affect part of the federal indictment Trump faces. The attacks have been a consistent source of misinformation during the past 2 years. Here are some weve previously debunked: Joedy McCreary Supporters, foes point to DeSantis record in Florida With Ron DeSantis in charge, Florida has been anything but calm. His five-year record as governor shapes up as a focal point of the campaign both for his supporters and his opponents. There is the war on wokeness. The legal feud with Disney that started over the so-called Dont Say Gay law. The law he signed that led districts across the state to purge books from their shelves. And then there were the changes to the states history standards that say enslaved people developed skills they could use for personal benefit. That drew direct criticism from Scott. DeSantis recently added one more debate to his schedule after this one: He will face off against California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, on Nov. 30. Weve previously debunked numerous claims stemming from the Sunshine State: Joedy McCreary Hunter Biden's legal troubles a target for Republicans The ongoing legal case involving Hunter Biden, Joe Biden's son, has already had broad political implications, with many Republican lawmakers looking to tie his business activities to his father. Hunter Biden was indicted Sept. 14 on two federal charges for allegedly lying to a gun dealer and on a federal form when buying a revolver in 2018. The case nearly went away in July, but a federal judge refused to accept a plea deal after prosecutors and defense attorneys couldn't agree on the terms. Hunter Biden had previously agreed to plead guilty to two misdemeanor counts of tax evasion and participate in a pretrial program for a firearm offense. The Republican-led House Oversight Committee has also been investigating Biden in an effort to link actions by then-Vice President Joe Biden to his son's business dealings with the Ukrainian energy firm Burisma. Republicans repeatedly alleged that Joe Biden was involved in influence peddling during his time as vice president. The White House has denied that allegation, calling it baseless innuendo. Hunter Biden recently filed lawsuits against the Internal Revenue Service for allegedly releasing his confidential tax information and Rudy Giuliani for allegedly releasing personal information from his laptop. Here are a few of the Hunter Biden-related claims weve previously addressed: Chris Mueller Trump's absence doesn't stop talk of indictments Trump again won't be on the debate stage tonight, but the former president looms large over the Republican primary in light of both his commanding lead in the polls and his unprecedented legal troubles. Most recently, Trump and several allies were indicted Aug. 14 by a Georgia grand jury that accused them of trying to overturn his 2020 election loss in the state, where Trump lost to President Joe Biden in Georgia by about 12,000 votes. The charges against Trump in Georgia are only the latest in a series of prosecutions against him that began in March, when he was indicted for allegedly falsifying business records related to hush-money payments intended to silence two women before the 2016 election. Trump also faces charges for allegedly mishandling classified documents and allegedly conspiring to steal the 2020 presidential election, including his role in the Jan. 6 insurrection. While recent polls show Trump doesn't seem to have lost support among Republican primary voters as a result of his criminal charges, a general election could be a different story. A poll released Sept. 24 by NBC News found 62% of voters have either major or moderate concerns about Trumps indictments. Trump's legal woes have been the subject of an array of false or misleading claims on social media: Chris Mueller Abortion sparks debate, misinformation after Roe. v. Wade ruling Abortion is expected to be a key issue, having sparked disagreement between parties as well as between the candidates on tonights stage. More than a dozen states across the country have banned, or attempted to ban, abortion since the Supreme Court overturned the landmark Roe v. Wade decision in June 2022. The decision eliminated the constitutional right to have an abortion. Democrats have sought to use the issue to mobilize voters ahead of the 2024 election. Republican presidential candidates have generally been opposed to the procedure, but vary in how they would try to regulate it if elected. Former President Donald Trump, who will not participate in the debate, has suggested he would work with both sides of the abortion issue and has denounced total restrictions on abortions. He criticized Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signing of legislation banning abortion after six weeks in his state. Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and former Vice President Mike Pence clashed on the topic of a federal abortion ban at the first GOP presidential debate in August. Haley, the only woman on stage, called for finding consensus among people across the political spectrum on the issue while Pence responded by saying consensus is the opposite of leadership. Businessman Vivek Ramaswamy has said he does not support a federal ban on abortion and believes the matter is a state issue, though he does support state bans of the procedure around the six-week mark of gestation. Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina has advocated for a federal ban on abortion after 15 weeks, while former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie has called for leaving the matter up to individual states. Abortion has sparked a flurry of misinformation online: -BrieAnna Frank This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: GOP debate fact check: What Ramaswamy, Haley got right (and wrong) Trump drops bid to move Georgia election case to federal court; remaining 4 bids are denied Attorneys for Donald Trump notified a Fulton County court Thursday that the former president will not seek to have his Georgia election interference case removed to federal court. A day later, a federal judge on Friday rejected the efforts of all the remaining defendants who had sought removal. Judge Steve Jones ruled that former Department of Justice official Jeffrey Clark and so-called "alternate electors" David Shafer, Cathy Latham and Shawn Still did not meet the requirements to have their cases moved from Georgia state court into federal court. MORE: Prosecutors push back on efforts by 3 Trump 'fake electors' to have their Georgia cases moved to federal court Each of them had sought to have their cases moved to federal court on the grounds that their election-related actions were performed "under color" of their office as federal officials. "The Court first determines that presidential electors are not federal officers," Judge Jones wrote in one of his rulings on the alternate electors, who had sought to prevent Joe Biden from receiving 270 electoral votes during the certification of the 2020 presidential election. "Even though electors are engaging in functions when they meet and cast their ballots, that is insufficient to make someone a federal officer." The three alternate electors had also argued that they qualified for removal because they were acting under the direction of a federal officer. But Jones found that Trump's "private litigation is 'unofficial conduct,'" and that "any directives from the attorneys in this private litigation to engage in activities that would benefit the litigation are not related to any federal officer duties of the President." Clark had also sought to have his case moved to federal court on the basis that the election-related actions he took -- drafting a letter to send to Georgia officials claiming there was evidence of voter fraud that could have affected the outcome of the election in Georgia -- were done in his capacity as a federal officer. PHOTO: Former President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks during a 2024 presidential campaign rally in Dubuque, Iowa, Sept. 20, 2023. (Scott Morgan/Reuters, FILE) However in his ruling Friday, Judge Jones said he found "no evidence" that Clark's efforts were "within the scope of his role as Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Division," as required by the federal removal statute. The move comes three weeks after a judge denied a similar bid by co-defendant Mark Meadows, Trump's former chief of staff, to have his case moved. That ruling is under appeal. Trump and 18 others have pleaded not guilty to all charges in a sweeping racketeering indictment for alleged efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election in the state of Georgia. The former president says his actions were not illegal and that the investigation is politically motivated. Trump's filing on Thursday said his decision is based on his "well-founded confidence that this Honorable Court intends to fully and completely protect his constitutional right to a fair trial and guarantee him due process of law throughout the prosecution of his case in the Superior Court of Fulton County, Georgia." Trump last month notified the court that he may file to remove, which the new filing says was done "in an abundance of caution." "President Trump now notifies the Court that he will NOT be seeking to remove his case to federal court," Thursday's filing stated. Trump drops bid to move Georgia election case to federal court; remaining 4 bids are denied originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Never pass up a good dupe! Trader Joe's There are so many (perhaps too many) reasons to love shopping at Trader Joes. Most loyalists love to peruse the aisles and Fearless Flyer for new, unique products, like Ube ice cream or Caramel Apple Mochi, but the truth is, TJs has a knack for creating dupes of our favorite classics. And while you may be a brand-name loyalists, were encouraging you to take a shot and try some of these alternative options. In addition to being more affordable, many of these Trader Joe's snacks and products are just as good (if not better) than the original. Related: 10 Lazy Trader Joe's Meals You Can Make in 15 Minutes or Less Daily Facial Sunscreen Buying sunscreen is one of the less thrilling items to shop for, mainly because its so expensive. In recent years, consumers have been more mindful of sunscreen brands, since many of them are made with toxic ingredients such as oxybenzone and parabens. But Trader Joes has come to our rescue with a product that is very similar to Supergoops popular Unseen Sunscreen, except it costs 75 percent less than the brand name. For just $9.99, you can protect your skin with the Daily Facial Sunscreen thats SPF 40, water- and sweat-resistant, and free of fragrances and oils. Make your dermatologist proud by stocking up on this lightweight sunscreen to wear all year round. Chile Lime Tortilla Chips Some crunchy corn chips are better than others, and Takis is just one of those snacks that gained some serious fanfare from the moment they were introduced in 1999. Leave it to Trader Joe's to come out with their own rendition of TakisChile & Lime Flavored Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips. These rolled, zesty snacks are simply irresistible, and are the perfect vessel for scooping up salsa, guacamole, or your favorite dip. Theyre also equally tasty when enjoyed all on their own. Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups Over the years, there have been countless chocolate peanut butter cup dupes, but none have come close to holding a candle next to the classic Reesesuntil Trader Joes. Whether youre a dark chocolate fiend or prefer silky milk chocolate, TJs offers a 16-ounce container of the most scrumptious peanut butter cups for less than $5. So, grab one of each variety and enjoy them throughout the day when you need a pick-me-up, or as an after-dinner sweet treat! Chocolate Vanilla Creme Joe-Joes Joe-Joes have been around for quite some time, but did you know they recently got a bit of a facelift? While these sandwich cookies resemble classic Oreos, they certainly have their own original taste. The thin, crunchy chocolate cookies are made with rich cocoa powder and flaky sea salt, and then theyre filled with a decadent, whipped creme that has the perfect amount of sweetness. Related: 4 Things Youll Never See at Trader Joes, According to the CEO Joes-Os Whether youre two or 52, Joes Os is a delicious and nutritious breakfast option with 33 grams of whole grains and 4 grams fiber per 1 cup serving. Theyre also chock-full of vitamins and minerals, with 25 percent of your daily value of zinc, 45 percent DV iron, and 60 percent DV thiamin (vitamin B1). The only real difference between this and the popular name-brand (it rhymes with shmeerios), is that you can get a 15-ounce box of Joes Os for under $2, which is about a dollar cheaper. And if you want something a tad sweeter for your first meal of the day, grab a box of Honey Os. Crispy Rice Cereal Heres another prime example proving that you dont always have to buy name-brand cereal. If you love kicking off the morning with a little snap, crackle, pop, might we suggest trying TJs Crispy Rice Cereal? Pour yourself a nice, big bowl with freshly sliced berries and bananas, or use them to make homemade crispy rice marshmallow squares. Its always a good idea to have a box of these on hand. All-Butter Puff Pastry Sheets The key to making delicious homemade dishes is to find a tad of convenience whenever possible. Thats why youre going to want to pick up a box of two of these frozen puff pastry sheets. Just like the Pillsbury brand, these pre-made pastry sheets make it beyond easy to whip up anything from tarts to galettes. The only difference you may notice from TJs and other brands is that these pastry sheets have a strong, buttery taste, which if you ask me, is not a real problem. Sublime Ice Cream Sandwiches The Original Chipwich is so nostalgic that you can pretty much hear the ice cream truck driving down the street with each bite. And while there are many knockoffs out there, none are as delicious as TJs iterationSublime Ice Cream Sandwiches. The trick is to make sure the chocolate chip cookies are soft and a bit chewy, and the vanilla ice cream should be firm, but smooth enough to sink your teeth into. Scandinavian Swimmers If you only indulge in one type of TJs candy, make it their famous Scandinavian Swimmers. They might resemble Swedish Fish, but if were being honest, theyre far better than those little red candies. Aside from the adorable ocean-inspired shapes, the vibrant colors and unique flavors make these sweet treats one of TJs most coveted items. From berry and huckleberry to peach-mango and tart orange, youll never be able to choose your favorite. Related: A 1-Pound Chocolate Bar and 12 More Trader Joe's Items Chocolate Fans Will Love Buttermilk Protein Pancake Mix Picture this: its Sunday morning and your whole family wakes up to the irresistible scent of freshly made pancakes. Little do they know theres at least 10 grams of protein in their perfectly fluffy stack. There are countless types of protein pancake or waffle mixes but TJs version is made with whole ingredients and is competitively priced. For more Real Simple news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on Real Simple. On September 28, the 61st annual New York Film Festival begins, and brings with it some of the most anticipated movies of the awards season. Cinephiles can take in new projects from Steve McQueen, Sofia Coppola, Yorgos Lanthimos , Hayao Miyazaki, Todd Haynes, and Annie Baker among many othersbut with all of the programming, which lasts through October 15, how will you know what to see? Use this T&C cheat sheet to enhance your viewing pleasure. All of Us Strangers Adapted from a novel by Taichi Yamada, this filmwritten and directed by Andrew Haighfollows a lonely screenwriter named Adam (Andrew Scott) who lives in a practically deserted London high rise; hes cut off from the rest of the world both figuratively and literally, that is until his one neighbor, Harry (Paul Mescal), knocks on his door. The relationship between the two develops as Adam habitually sneaks away to visit his childhood home, where he finds his late parents (Jamie Bell and Claire Foy) living as though they havent been dead for decades. So, sure, its a ghost story in a way but also a tender, touching meditation on loss and finding what we need in both the present and the past with knockout performances from all of its players. Courtesy Searchlight Pictures Anatomy of a Fall Did she or didnt see? In director Justine Triets sharp, compelling Palme dOr winner, a remarkable Sandra Huller plays Sandra Voyter, a novelist whose husband is discovered dead outside of their home in the French Alpsand whose role in his death is the central question of the film. Anatomy is at once an edge-of-your seat courtroom drama, a portrait of a family in turmoil, and a meditation on guilt, envy, and forgiveness. Also worth noting: the films other big moment comes care of a border collie named Messi, who won Canness Palm Dog award for his role as the familys pooch, Snoop. Courtesy NEON Bleat Poor Things isnt the only Yorgos Lanthimos-Emma Stone project at the festival. This short, silent, black-and-white film (presented by NEON and the Greek National Opera) follows Stones young widow as she goes through a very unexpected journey; the audience will get one of their own, as the NYFF screening is accompanied by a choir and musicians performing works by J.S. Bach, Knut Nystedt, and Toshio Hosokawa. Courtesy of Film at Lincoln Center The Boy and the Heron Any new film by Hayao Miyazakithe Oscar-winning director of animated classics including Spirited Away and Princess Mononokeis rightly considered an event, and this latest release from the 82-year-old legend is no different. The movie uses a 1937 novel by Genzaburo Yoshino as its jumping off point but goes on to tell an original story about a young boy, an abandoned tower, and a magical friendship that changes him forever. The film was a hit when it was released in Japan and has been earning raves on the international festival circuit, likely in part because it's said to be the directors final release, but also for delivering what he so often does, an animated world that somehow shows us surprising and inspiring things about our own. 2023 Studio Ghibli Ferrari One could say that this latest drama from director Michael Mann is a racecar movie, but that would only be part of the story. Instead, his film is about the high-stakes game that Enzo Ferrari, the namesake founder of the Italian auto brand, finds himself play when faced with the very real possibility of losing his companynot to mention his very complicated marriage. Taking place over three months of 1957, the filmwhich stars Adam Driver, Penelope Cruz, and Shailene Woodley, among othersdepicts not only one of the worlds most famous races but also the behind-the-scenes story of how one of the worlds most famous names almost sputtered out. Lorenzo Sisti; Courtesy of NEON Foe Saoirse Ronan and Paul Mescal star in this sci-fi drama set 40 years in the future as a couple living in a desolate farmhouse who receive an unexpected visitor with an offer that could change their livesand perhaps even the fate of the world. The film is written and directed by Garth Davis (Lion) and adapted from the novel by Iain Reid, and asks big questions about the state of the world and the ways we can change itif we havent already gone past the point of no return. Courtesy Amazon Studios Going to Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project This documentary from directors Joe Brewster and Michele Stephenson won the Grand Jury Prize in the U.S. Documentary Competition at the Sundance Film Festival this year, and its sure to pick up more accolades along its journey. The film digs deep into the life and work of the poet Nikki Giovanni, and explores not only her long and storied career, but also the singular way she views the world around her and the way her writing helps make sense of it. Courtesy of Michele Stephenson & Joe Brewster Hit Man Gary Johnson isnt really a criminal; he just pretends to be oneusually. In this new dark comedy from director and co-writer Richard Linklater, Glen Powell plays Johnson, a philosophy professor who works with the New Orleans police posting as a professional killer to help catch real lawbreakers. When he falls for Madison (Adria Arjona), a woman trying to leave an abusive relationship, however, the line between his real life and the one he pretends to live blurs, and this (kind of) true story becomes as bizarre as it is thrilling. And not just for audiences; Netflix recently spent $20 million on the film after its rapturous reception at the Toronto International Film Festival. Courtesy of Film at Lincoln Center Janet Planet Theatergoers in New York City have recently been flocking to Annie Bakers new play Infinite Life, which is playing at the Atlantic Theater Company before it moves to London. Cinephiles shouldnt feel left out; the Pulitzer Prize-winning writer is showing her directorial film debut at the festival. Janet Planet is a keenly observed story of a mother and daughter (Julianne Nicholson and Zoe Ziegler) figuring out themselves and one another during a lazy summer in Western Massachusetts. Courtesy A24 La Chimera This latest film from the always-exciting Italian director Alice Rohrwacher (Happy as Lazzaro, The Wonders) stars Josh OConner as a lovelorn British ex-con who finds his way to a small town in the Italian countrysideand reconnects with a group of grave robbers who make use of his unique set of skills. Courtesy NEON Last Summer If anyone should know better, its Anne. Shes a lawyer whose practice focuses on matters of custody and consent, but when her teenage stepson moves into her house, she finds herself entangled in a relationship with him that defies her better judgement. Directed by the reliably provocative Catherine Breillat, the film stars Lea Drucker as Anne, and promises to raise thought-provoking questions about morality, fidelity, and the rules we choose to live byor give ourselves permission to ignore. Courtesy of Sideshow and Janus Films Maestro In his second film as a director, Bradley Cooper tells the story of the legendary composer and conductor Leonard Bernstein in all of its complicated, glamorous, and heart-rending glory. Cooper himself plays Bernstein opposite Carey Mulligan as his formidable wife Felicia and leads an all-star cast chock full of New York theater actors to depict the inner life of a man who seemingly had it all, but nevertheless felt at times unseen. The film follows Bernsteins professional ups and downs as well as those in his personal life, a famously complicated one that involved a seemingly truly loving marriage as well as not-so-secret relationships on the side, to present a careful and caring look at one of our most stories cultural titans and all the ways that he was also merely just one of us. Courtesy Netflix May December Todd Haynes directs this unnerving story about actress Elizabeth Berry (Natalie Portman) who steps outside her real life, and far beyond her comfort zone, to visit Gracie Atherton-Yoo (Julianne Moore), the woman who inspired her next big part. The film within a film is about Yoos affair with (and eventual marriage to) a teenage boy, and while the scandal itself might be in the past, its ramifications are still clear and present in the lives of the players and nearly everyone around them. Its a sly, slippery take on the stories we tell and what it is that actually constitutes the truth, with electric performances from Portman, Moore, and Charles Melton. Courtesy Netflix Occupied City This documentary from Steve McQueen clocks in at more than four hours, but considering the ground it covers, thats fast. The film explores life in Amsterdam during the World War II occupation but eschews archival footage for the newly shot; McQueen filmed in the city over the last three years, including during lockdowns, to draw powerful parallels between the world we see now and the horrors of its not-so-distant past. Courtesy A24 Perfect Days Koji Yakusho stars in this new film from director Wim Wendershe won the Best Actor award in Cannes for his workabout a Tokyo man whose work as a cleaner brings him into contact with a variety of characters whose eccentricities serve to highlight his own calm demeanor. That is until he encounters someone from his own past whose appearance upsets his carefully calibrated existence. Courtesy of Master Mind Ltd. The Pigeon Tunnel Before the novelist John le Carre died in 2020, he sat for interviews with the filmmaker Errol Morris for this documentary that looks behind the mystique of the spy-novel master and examines the life that led him to literary acclaim. More than just an exercise in straight-ahead storytelling, however, this film also depicts a struggle between the director and his subjectforever a student of secrecyover what information should see the light of day and what is best left lurking in the shadows. Courtesy Apple TV+ Poor Things To call this latest picture from Yorgos Lanthimos (The Lobster, The Favourite) a Frankenstein story might make it sound a bit too mundane. Instead, the fantastical film follows Bella Baxter (Emma Stone), a young woman reanimated by a mad scientist (Willem Dafoe) who goes out into the world to discover who it is she wants to be. Her misadventures range from the gruesome to the graphica stint in a Parisian brothel is among the most unforgettable experimentsand the daringly designed world that Lanthimos depicts helps audiences feel as though theyre seeing the world for the first time as well. Its a razor-sharp investigation of gender roles and the true price of freedom that, while sometimes verging on avant-garde, delivers unforgettable punch and unforgettable performances from a cast also including Ramy Youssef, Mark Ruffalo, and Christopher Abbott. Courtesy Searchlight Pictures Priscilla Elvis had his turn, now its hers. In this new film co-written and directed by Sofia Coppola and based on the excellent memoir Elvis and Me, we leave the King in the background and focus instead on Priscillawho he met and married when she was just a teenager. The dazzling Cailee Spaeny plays the title character, with Jacob Elordie as her husband, and takes audiences along on her whirlwind trip from regular girl to the most famous wife in the world, with all of the glamour, heartache, and trouble that comes with it. This isnt the over-the-top Elvis experience of last summers blockbuster, but instead a more subdued (but no less powerful) and cerebral look at the life of someone who follows her heart to unexpected places, and how from them she manages to make her own way. Courtesy A24 Strange Way of Life This latest work from Pedro Almodovar has all of the directors trademark style and wit but fit into a quick 30 minutes. Here, a small-town sheriff played by Ethan Hawke is investigating a murder when an old flame, played by Pedro Pascal, moseys into town and makes things a lot more complicated. Its a quick, smart storywith costumes by YSLs Anthony Vaccarellothat gives the traditional Western an interesting, exciting twist. Courtesy Sony Pictures Classics The Sweet East Talia Ryder, Eyo Edebiri, and Simon Rex star in this debut feature from director Sean Price Williams, which follows Ryders Lillian, a high schooler who splits off from a class trip to Washington, D.C. and ends up learning some unexpected lessons on her adventure. Courtesy UTOPIA The Taste of Things Tran Anh Hung won the Best Director prize at this years Cannes Film Festival for this period romance, starring the once-married actors Juliette Binoche and Benoit Magimel as longtime colleagues in a 19th-century French kitchen who finally acknowledge their feelings for one another. Courtesy IFC Films The Zone of Interest This years submission from the United Kingdom for the Oscarss Best International Feature category, The Zone of Interest tells the story of a seemingly (and eerily) normal German family whose idyllic 1940s existence runs up against that of their neighbors: the people living in Auschwitz, where patriarch Rudolf Hoss works. Directed by Jonathan Glazer and starring Sandra Huller and Christian Friedel, the film (based loosely on a Martin Amis novel) won the Grand Prix prize at Cannes and has buzzed-about chances of taking home more awards as the year rolls on. Courtesy A24 You Might Also Like Alaskas Bering Sea and Aleutian Island groundfish trawl fisheries this year caught 10 killer whales in their massive nets. Nine of them died. NOAA Fisheries is analyzing collected data to determine the cause of injury or death and determine which stocks these whales belong to through a review of genetic information, the agency said in a press release. Killer whales are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act , which requires boat operators to report injuries or death. Each Bering Sea trawler carries two NOAA Fisheries Observers aboard to document bycatch, but when trawlers drag nets in other places off Alaskas coast they lack 100 percent observer coverage. Trawler Troubles in Alaska A pollack catch on the deck of factory trawler. A large number of Alaskas trawlers are homeported in Seattle. They fish for pollock and other fish, which get turned into products like fish sticks and Filet-O-Fish sandwiches. In the early 1990s, a trawler on its way up from Seattle dropped a net to do a practice drag. That one drag caught the entire Southeast Alaska rockfish quota , leading to massive outcry and eventually leading to trawling being banned off Southeast Alaska. In other places in Alaska, trawling is both happening and being labeled sustainable by Marine Stewardship Council, despite the fact that it has been documented to destroy coral and other important habitat essential for the ocean ecosystem. Over the past decade, trawlers in the Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska have bycaught more than a billion pounds of marine life . That bycatch includes king and chum salmon, crab, halibut, and other species. Much of the bycatch is thrown overboard dead. Trawlers are allowed to catch an unlimited number of chum salmon. Meanwhile, king and chum salmon runs in Western Alaska have collapsed in recent years. Salmon is the lifeblood of dozens of Alaska Native villages along the Yukon and Kuskokwim Rivers, and subsistence fishery closures have enormous impacts . While climate change plays a role in the declines, many Alaskans see a clear link to trawl bycatch . Critics also point to the fact that observers can only document bycatch that makes its way to the surfaceand the massive, loaded nets of some trawlers have been documented as dragging the bottom up to 100 percent of the time , potentially pulverizing habitat, crabs, and other bottom-dwelling species. If what they are doing underwater with trawl nets was happening on land where the public could see it, it would be shut down tomorrow, said David Bayes, owner of Homer-based DeepStrike Sportfishing . Higher Than Normal Killer Whale Bycatch Groundfish Forum, a Seattle-based association that operates 19 trawlers responsible for a number of the whale deaths, said that the level of killer whale trawl bycatch documented in 2023 is unusual. Groundfish Forums captains noticed an increase in the number of killer whales present near our vessels, where they appear to be feeding in front of the nets while fishing. The majority of dead whales were found inside nets. We are committed to working with NOAA and shery managers to nd solutions, their statement continued. Hannah Myers, a University of Fairbanks marine biology student who spent a week aboard a groundfish trawler studying killer whale interactions with the vessel, told the Anchorage Daily News shes concerned by whats going on deeper in the ocean. It is likely that killer whales are feeding on fish from the nets entrance, or using the dragging net as a fishing aid, she said. The whales may be following trawlers in part because their normal prey is depleted. About a week ago, Australian Ehrin Coupe was surfing Uluwatu in Bali when he suffered a severe surfing accident, resulting in injuries to his nose and forehead. But what followed was the real tragedy. Due to a miscalculation in his travel insurance policy, in which he and his wife Sarah overlooked, the costs of the medical services an emergency surgery in Bali ($19,091 AUD) and a medical evacuation to Australia ($6079 AUD) are still looming. Photo: GoFundMe/HelpEzz As of Monday, Ehrin is back in Australia and is under the care of a plastic surgeon in Brisbane, reads a GoFundMe account set to help with the bills. This Wednesday he is having his bandages removed and redressed where the surgeon will be able to assess the full extent of his injuries and potential path forward for recovery. The costs of his rehabilitation are unknown at this stage and as Ehrin is unable to work, we are seeking to raise additional funds on top of his medical expenses to support his recovery. At the time of publication, the GoFundMe has raised $20,551 AUD of its $30,000 goal. As an update, Sarah revealed how she accidently missed the details of their travel insurance policy, which led to such a hefty bill. As some of you are aware, Ezz had a horrific surf injury this morning in Uluwatuu, she wrote. Yes, we have comprehensive, top-level cover travel insurance for 12 months. However, I failed [to read] the fine print that each trip must be maximum 60 days only. I believed we were covered for 12 months. Despite the snafu, it looks like friends, family, and the surf community are rallying for Coupes recovery. To support, check out the GoFundMe page here. *** Don't miss another headline from SURFER! Subscribe to our newsletter, follow us on Instagram, and stay connected with the latest happenings in the world of surfing. We're always on the lookout for amusing, interesting and engaging surf-related videos to feature on our channels. Whether you're a professional surfer or just an amateur, we want to see your best footage and help you share it with the world. Submit your video for a chance to be featured on SURFER and our social channels. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch high-quality surf videos. For parents who scrambled for months to secure an adequate supply of infant formula to feed their babies and special needs children, the formula shortage remains vivid, though the supply has largely returned to normal. But some believe another formula shortage could be quietly brewing, spurred in part by production challenges that three formula manufacturers have faced recently that could pinch the formula supply if not adequately and swiftly resolved. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently sent warning letters to ByHeart Inc., Reckitt/Mead Johnson Nutrition, and Perrigo Wisconsin that outline shortfalls in how all three handle potential contamination and gave the formula makers a short timeline to respond. Additionally, one of Reckitts plants also didnt make sure that the equipment and utensils used are of appropriate design and were installed to facilitate their intended function and their cleaning and maintenance. Utahs senior senator, Republican Mike Lee, believes a long-term fix is needed to make it easier to import infant formula from elsewhere if the need arises. He touts his Formula 3.0 Act, cosponsored by a bipartisan group of his colleagues, noting it would boost the formula supply and also reduce the cost. The welfare of our families, especially our infants, is of utmost importance, Lee told the Deseret News on Wednesday. The formula shortage has highlighted the need for long-term solutions that promote accessibility and affordability. With the Formula 3.0 Act, we take a significant step towards permanently eliminating trade barriers and ensuring a stable supply of infant formula for families across the nation. He posted a similar message on X (formerly Twitter) this week as well. Hes not alone in being concerned. On Tuesday, U.S. Sens. Bob Casey, D-Pa., Sherrod Brown , D-Ohio, and Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., sent a letter to FDA Commissioner Robert Califf asking the agency to be proactive in preventing future formula shortages and making certain that domestically produced formula is readily available and store shelves stocked as the manufacturing infrastructure is improved. As Reason.com pointed out, the warning letters from the FDA to the formula manufacturers indicate that another formula crisis should soon be underway. Just four companies including Mead Johnson and Perrigo comprise 90% of the U.S. baby formula market, meaning that if just one factory is forced to stop production due to safety concerns, it could send a massive shock to the U.S. formula supply, creating a repeat of last years baby formula shortage, which the Deseret News covered extensively. Preventing another shortage The Formula 3.0 Act is sponsored by Lee, Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., and Reps. Adrian Smith, R-Neb., and Don Beyer, D-Va. The bill would dump the high tariffs on imported baby formula permanently. It would also help families whose babies use specialty formulas made in Europe. Children with certain medical conditions and allergies have very particular formula needs. Related The fragility of the domestic infant formula market was put into stark relief last year when a problem at just one companys facility led to a drastic supply shortage and massive price increases for parents nationwide, Beyer said in a June press release. ... This bill would permanently eliminate trade barriers to encourage the import of FDA-compliant infant formula, bringing prices down for parents in the near term and staving off a potential future crisis. Lee has said the bill will make the formula supply stable and accessible. The letter from Casey, Brown and Heinrich acknowledged the work the FDA has done to boost manufacturing infrastructure, including increasing inspections and ordering improvements to the factories. The letter also posed questions, including how the FDA will ensure a stable supply of formula, how the administration is monitoring for potential production slowdowns, how its working with formula producers to make sure enough formula is produced to meet demand, and how the FDA would prepare to keep formula available should there be a government shutdown, among other questions. They closed the letter with a request for a swift response. A bit of history Infant formula had begun to disappear from store shelves in February 2022, the shortage spurred by a large formula recall by Abbott Nutrition, supply chain problems and panic buying as parents began to notice blank spots on the shelves. The shortage was exacerbated by the temporary shuttering of Abbotts largest manufacturing plant, located in Sturgis, Michigan, to address safety and contamination worries. In the months that followed, as families searched for elusive formula and recruited others to help them find it especially worrisome because some babies require highly specialized hypoallergenic products the Biden administration loosened restrictions on importing formula from other countries. Lee introduced an earlier formula bill. Tons of formula was airlifted in from overseas. The Defense Production Act was used to divert resources to formula manufacturing. And other measures were taken. Gradually, the supply of formula stabilized. But no one declared it rock solid. The FDA eased its importation rules so that foreign manufacturers can sell their formula in the United States if they meet certain requirements. And Congress temporarily waived the 27% tariff on foreign-made formula, but that was reinstated at the end of the year and imports began to decrease again. Reason.com says store shelves are no longer as well stocked, either, as a result, though the situation is not at this point serious. But critics say Congress hasnt done anything recently to prevent what they see as a potentially looming crisis. While travelers cant physically see the Arctic Circle, the regions within its perimeter are home to stunning natural landscapes. Travelers can experience majestic valleys, towering, snow-capped mountains, and deep fjords across parts of Europe. With so much to see, one of the best ways to travel through the Arctic Circle is to experience it slowly. Travel agency Up Norway has curated the ultimate travel excursion showcasing the beauty of the Arctic Circle by train. Surrounded by peace and tranquility, The Arctic Circle Express Train takes visitors on a 12-day tour of the Norwegian landscape. Guests enjoy a variety of experiences during the getaway. From exploring local towns and villages to riding slowly through the mountainside and staying in some of the finest hotels, this train ride is a must if Norway is your next travel destination. Experience The Beauty Of The Arctic Circle Photo credit: stein egil liland The Arctic Circle Express Train gives travelers the perfect amount of time to experience Norway the right way. The tours take place between May and September, which Up Norway considers the best time to see the Scandinavian countryside. Itineraries for passengers are designed by the agencys trip curators. Each journey begins in Oslo. At the start of a multi-railway adventure, travelers embark on the voyage of a lifetime through the mountains of the Arctic Circle. While passengers enjoy a double room and breakfast onboard, the train ride isnt the highlight of the trip. The tour has a plethora of adventures built into it. You can hike Godoya Island and get a private farm tour, cruise the Nryfjorden Fjord, and ride Europes steepest railway the Flam Railway. Train conductors stop for travelers to explore a few cities including Bergen and Alesund. Returning To Slow Travel Photo credit: Soumith Soman When airplane technology grew in popularity in the 1950s, train travel fell to the back. However, more travelers have been gravitating back to railways. Modern-day travel is very fast-paced. Itineraries are stuffed with excursions, sights to see, and restaurants to try. This can make it difficult to truly enjoy the destination. The Arctic Circle Express Train alleviates the desire to move at the speed of light while visiting Norway. Instead, professionals have optimized the countrys best experiences into a multi-week excursion at a slow pace. Beyond the delightful train ride, travelers will also be able to try some of Norways culinary offerings. The tour includes 7 dinners and 2 lunches while traveling. Guests will have dinner at multiple restaurants along the railways including Restaurant 1877 and Apotekergata 5. Travelers can also extend their journey by adding on a 3-day stint on the Ofoten Railway. The extra days take passengers through Narvik towards Sweden. This provides even more time to experience the natural landscape of the Arctic Circle. Magic is happening in nature and theres no better place to check it out than on the Arctic Circle Express Train. The train voyage cost $4499 USD. Travelers also have the option to have their train adventure tailored to their specific needs. [table-of-contents] stripped Learning how to mail a package isn't complicated, but there are several required steps you have to take, as well as different shipping services to choose from. Whether youre sending someone a holiday gift or care package for the first time or just need a refresher on the different services available, you'll want to know how to plan and package your shipment so it arrives safely and on time. In the U.S., the main shipping services are the United States Postal Service (USPS), United Parcel Service (UPS), and FedEx. Here, were breaking down their offerings to help you learn how to mail a package, so you can send off your shipment with confidence. Make Sure the Item Can Be Shipped No matter which service you use to ship your package, they all have rules about what you can ship. There are some things you cant ship at all, like ivory or explosives, and others that can be shipped under certain conditions or in small quantities. For example, USPS wont ship packages over 70 pounds, so youll have to use UPS or FedEx for heavier items. The rules vary by carrier and shipping destination, so it's worth reviewing the restrictions for each service beforehand. Choose a Shipment Carrier The main determining factors of whether to send your package through USPS, UPS, or FedEx are the size of your shipment, how quickly you need it to reach its destination, and the shipping cost. All three carriers offer similar services, but they have different pricing structures and service levels. For mailing small packages that don't require expedited service, USPS generally has the best rates. This is also your best option for shipping to military addresses and P.O. boxes. For mailing large or heavy packages, UPS and FedEx are usually a better value. They also offer more expedited shipping options, such as next-day and same-day delivery. All three providers offer package tracking, but the information provided by UPS and FedEx tends to be more detailed. Finally, it's a good idea to get an estimate on your shipping cost before deciding on a carrier. Each providers website has a shipping calculator where you can plug in the details of what youre shipping, where its going, and how soon you need it to arrive. Pack It Up When you're ready to pack up your shipment, use the smallest shipping box that will keep the item protected. Using an unnecessarily large or heavy box will lead to higher shipping costs. If youre reusing a box, make sure to remove or cover over labels from past shipments to avoid delays or delivery errors. If you dont have a suitable box on hand, UPS, USPS, and FedEx all offer a variety of free and paid options in stores. After you've placed your item in its shipping box, use lightweight packing materials, such as bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or even popcorn to keep it protected. Then, seal the package with 2-inch nylon strapping tape or plastic packing tape these are much more durable than using masking tape or duct tape. Create a Shipping Label You can get a shipping label at your post office, UPS Store, or FedEx outlet, or you can save time by buying and printing one at home. On each carrier's website, you can enter the shipping address, return address, and any necessary information about the items you're shipping (e.g., if they're fragile or perishable) in order to generate a label. Choose a flat-rate service or supply details about your shipments weight and dimensions. Youll also be asked to provide the value of your shipment for insurance purposes in case the package is lost or damaged. You can also opt to buy additional insurance. After entering all of the relevant information, you can review information about rates and delivery times, then select your preferred service. Once you've paid the shipping cost online, youll be able to print your label at home. A copy will be sent to you by email, along with tracking information. Finally, adhere your printed label to the side of the package with the largest surface area. Drop It Off Once your package is taped up, labeled, and ready to go, you can drop it off at your local post office, UPS Store, or FedEx outlet. If youre shipping by a standard method, it's a good idea to avoid dropping off the package before a weekend or holiday, so it can reach its destination promptly. Unexpected service interruptions or weather events could also impact the timing of your delivery, which is important to keep in mind if you're shipping perishable items. Once your package is on its way, you can track its progress by entering your tracking number on each shippers website. All three carriers also offer the option to receive updates by text or email. You Might Also Like Partnership | By Siobhan McGowan When it comes to color, Little Greene lives large. We put 40 percent more pigment into our paints. Thats why other brands cant match them, says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at the company, pointing out one of the key factors that makes its competitors suitably chartreuse with envy. Our red is the same lightfast, high-quality color used by Ferrari. A reputation for a precisely curated palette of bold hues that have their roots in British design history has gained the independent brand many devotees in the 20-plus years since its founding in 2001. Now, having established its bona fides in England and across the Continentand by popular demand from globe-trotting designers who collect the companys color cards at international trade showsLittle Greene is coming to America. In October, it opens its first stateside showroom in Greenwich, Connecticut, with orders to be processed by its corresponding warehouse in nearby Stamford. Its the right moment, says Mottershead of the move. Baked Cherry, a deep red thats part of Little Greenes debut American palette, adorns a bedroom wall - Photo Credit Courtesy of Little Greene Operating from a formerly industrial area of Manchester not far from the original location of its 18th century namesake, Little Greene Dye Works, Little Greene Paint & Paper has already made a big impact on the industry in its native land. A family affair, the business was built by Mottersheads father, David, a chemist with a penchant for color, in anticipation of mass redundancies at the mainstream U.K. paint company he was working at in the mid-1990s. Starting as a protective coatings company that made tough industrial paints for pools and parking lots, in short order the brand transitioned to toll manufacturing, producing custom palettes for such hallowed home labels as William Morris and Ralph Lauren. It was my mum who had the idea of creating more of a luxury paint and wallpaper brand that offered a premium, sustainable product and patterns with a heritage, recalls Mottershead, who works alongside her brother, Ben, director of operations, while their father remains managing director. Little Greene paints are distinguished by what Mottershead calls the raw materials of its trademark robust formula, as well as its low-waste manufacturing process. While other brands may substitute lesser components that result in inconsistent application, insufficient coverage or prolonged drying time, Little Greene prioritizes quality that lasts. Made from six different bases ranging from high white to extra deep that the company produces at its own facilities and available in nine finishes, Little Greenes low-VOC paints span the spectrum. Whether its the resins or the titanium dioxide for whiteness, its the mixture of all the different ingredients that ensures our colors stay vibrant for a long time, says Mottershead, because we believe that if you are paying a high price for a product, the quality has to be perfect. Marigold Giallo epitomizes the rich pigmentation of Little Greene paints - Photo Credit Courtesy of Little Greene Then theres that varied and intense pigmentation. On a typical tinting machine, you might get, say, four pigments that make up all the different colors. On our tinting machines, you get 15 or 16, she says. There are three different types of red alone. This array results in inimitably nuanced colors like pink with hints of orange or sapphire underscored by black. For its American debut, Little Greene is offering a limited palette of 211 colors, tinted to order on-site at the Stamford warehouse. On first impression, that conservative number might seem to contradict the many options its multi-pigment machinery can create, but theres a method to the edit. In a market sector where designers can find themselves confronted by an incomprehensible quantity of whites, Little Greenes discerning selection makes the choice of not only single shades but complementary combinations so much easier. Weve been very careful in our selection of grays, stones and whites in our Colour Scales assortment of neutrals, making sure we have a range of pastels and off-blacks as well, says Mottershead. The companys color cards group hues according to degree of saturation. China Clay, China Clay Mid, China Clay Deep and China Clay Dark are all made using the same pigment but at different strengths. You could use one on your ceiling, one on your molding and one on your walls, and theyd all work perfectly together. Hicks Blue tips its top hat to the color that famed interior designer David Hicks painted the British Telecom Tower in the 1960s - Photo Credit Courtesy of Little Greene Of particular delight to Anglophiles is the special designation many of the colors getindicated on Little Greene literature by a small red dot featuring a V for Victorian, an R for Regency, and so on. Drawing from the companys partnership with the U.K.s National Trust, which allows it access to 500 historic properties, these shades re-create iconic colors from the past for contemporary homes. Invisible Green is marked with a G for Georgian because its inspired by a color used by the great landscape architect Humphry Repton to camouflage the railings among the foliage in Londons Regents Park, says Mottershead. Hicks Blue, tagged with a 60 for the decade, references the color that famed interior designer David Hicks used to paint the citys British Telecom Tower. Engaging factoids like these can be found on the back of Little Greenes color cards and on its website. The history and sophistication of the British Empire may inform Little Greenes American palette, but fear not a stiff upper lip: Theres plenty of Cool Britannia to be found in its colors too. From Atomic Red to Hidey Hole (a hue once favored by George Bernard Shaw) to Trumpet, even the names are playful. Were quite fun, and quite friendly, and quite fresh in our approach, says Mottershead. Too posh is not our vibe at all. So, classic with a twist, then? Sounds ab fab for Connecticut. Little Greene, the bespoke paint and wallpaper brand based in Manchester, England, is opening its first stateside showroom in Greenwich, Connecticut, this fall - Photo Credit Courtesy of Little Greene This story is a paid promotion and was created in partnership with Little Greene. Want to stay informed? Sign up for our newsletter, which recaps the weeks stories, and get in-depth industry news and analysis each quarter by subscribing to our print magazine. Join BOH Insider for discounts, workshops and access to special events such as the Future of Home conference. I think we moved too fast, and we are looking at it now, Delta CEO Ed Bastian said. Courtesy of Delta Air Lines The head of Delta Air Lines said the carrier is rethinking the changes to its loyalty program for next year, admitting it may have gone too far. No question we probably went too far in doing that, CEO Ed Bastian told the Atlanta Rotary Club, according to the Associated Press. I think we moved too fast, and we are looking at it now. Bastian added the company has received a lot of feedback and said Delta would be making modifications to the program changes. However, he didnt specify what the modifications would be or give an exact date when they would be announced other than promising sometime over the next few weeks. The comments come weeks after Delta made it harder to earn status with the airline in 2024, only counting Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) toward its loyalty program, rather than its previous policy of counting a combination of MQDs, Medallion Qualification Segments (MQS), and Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs). Travelers earn MQDs when they purchase a Delta or Delta-partner flight, book a hotel, a car rental, or a Delta Vacations trip directly through the airline's website. Travelers can earn 1 MQD for every dollar spent. Travelers can also earn MQDs with a Delta credit card, but earn fewer per dollar spent. Delta also raised the spending thresholds to earn status for 2025, requiring travelers to earn 6,000 MQDs, for example, to reach its lowest Silver Medallion status. The airline will also limit access to its Sky Club lounges in 2025 for travelers with a Delta SkyMiles Reserve card, Reserve Business card, or American Express Platinum card. And travelers who access the lounge with an American Express card will no longer be able to do so if they are flying on a Basic Economy ticket. Following the announcement, competitors like Alaska Airlines and JetBlue agreed to match status levels for angry Delta customers. Bastian said the total number of Delta customers with top-tier Diamond status has doubled since the pandemic started, according to the AP, which has led to crowding at Sky Club lounges and a ton of demand for seat upgrades and other top-tier perks. For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on Travel & Leisure. An analysis of the company's dividend history, yield, growth, and future prospects Illinois Tool Works Inc(NYSE:ITW) recently announced a dividend of $1.4 per share, payable on 2023-10-12, with the ex-dividend date set for 2023-09-28. 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 Illinois Tool Works Inc's dividend performance and assess its sustainability. About Illinois Tool Works Inc Illinois Tool Works is a diversified global manufacturer that produces specialized industrial equipment, consumables, and related services. The firm operates 87 global divisions through seven distinct operating segments: automotive OEM, construction products, food equipment, specialty products, test/measurement and electronics, polymers and fluids, and welding. About half of its revenue comes from its operations in North America, with the remainder originating from international markets. ITW takes a bottom-up and decentralized approach to portfolio management, with the exception that each segment must apply its 80/20 operating process modeled on the Pareto principle. Illinois Tool Works Inc (ITW): A Deep Dive into its Dividend Performance and Sustainability Illinois Tool Works Inc's Dividend History Illinois Tool Works Inc has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 1964. Dividends are currently distributed on a quarterly basis. Illinois Tool Works Inc has increased its dividend each year since 1964. The stock is thus listed as a dividend king, an honor that is given to companies that have increased their dividend each year for at least the past 59 years. Illinois Tool Works Inc (ITW): A Deep Dive into its Dividend Performance and Sustainability Illinois Tool Works Inc's Dividend Yield and Growth As of today, Illinois Tool Works Inc currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 2.28% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 2.42%. This suggests an expectation of increased dividend payments over the next 12 months. Story continues Over the past three years, Illinois Tool Works Inc's annual dividend growth rate was 6.90%. Extended to a five-year horizon, this rate increased to 11.40% per year. Over the past decade, Illinois Tool Works Inc's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at an impressive 14.50%. Based on Illinois Tool Works Inc's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of Illinois Tool Works Inc stock as of today is approximately 3.91%. Illinois Tool Works Inc (ITW): A Deep Dive into its Dividend Performance and Sustainability Payout Ratio and Profitability: The Sustainability Question 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, Illinois Tool Works Inc's dividend payout ratio is 0.52. Illinois Tool Works Inc's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks Illinois Tool Works Inc's profitability 9 out of 10 as of 2023-06-30, suggesting good profitability prospects. The company has reported positive net income for each of year over the past decade, further solidifying its high profitability. Growth Metrics: The Future Outlook To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. Illinois Tool Works Inc's growth rank of 9 out of 10 suggests that the company's growth trajectory is good relative to its competitors. Revenue is the lifeblood of any company, and Illinois Tool Works Inc's revenue per share, combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate, indicates a strong revenue model. Illinois Tool Works Inc's revenue has increased by approximately 5.80% per year on average, a rate that underperforms than approximately 52.04% 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, Illinois Tool Works Inc's earnings increased by approximately 8.10% per year on average, a rate that underperforms than approximately 55.47% of global competitors. Lastly, the company's 5-year EBITDA growth rate of 11.10%, which underperforms than approximately 44.95% of global competitors. Conclusion With a solid dividend history, impressive yield and growth rates, and a sustainable payout ratio, Illinois Tool Works Inc presents a compelling case for dividend investors. The company's robust profitability and growth metrics further enhance its appeal. However, investors should closely monitor the company's revenue and earnings growth rates, as they underperform a significant portion of global competitors. Despite this, Illinois Tool Works Inc's overall performance suggests a promising future for its dividend sustainability. GuruFocus Premium users can screen for high-dividend yield stocks using the High Dividend Yield Screener. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. If youve never done parasailing before, add it to your bucket list. Unlike other water activities like surfing and paddle boarding, you dont need any special skills. A sense of adventure is sufficient. Tourists commonly opt for tandem parasailing. Some companies also arrange solo parasailing, high-altitude parasailing, and wakeboard parasailing. The reputable ones prioritize safety, and theyll cancel your flight if the weather isnt optimal. Fly high at these top parasailing destinations. Jamaica When it comes to sandy beaches, Negril has great ones, such as Seven Mile Beach. Parasailing allows you to appreciate them aerially. Theres no shortage of parasailing operators in Jamaica. Fly High Parasail, which is based in Negril, offers a safe and fun experience for adults and children over the age of four. They offer single, tandem and triple rides. Youll wear a life jacket over your bathing suit, and most opt to do it barefoot. If youre in Ocho Rios, Sun Star Watersports has parasailing, while Half Moon Resort in Montego Bay offers it at Sunset Beach. Mexico Enjoy a birds eye view while in Cabo, Cancun or Puerto Vallarta. Take flight courtesy of Cabo Expeditions. Youre only in the air for 10 minutes or so, but thats enough to look at Cabo San Lucas Bay, Lands End and Medano Beach. Parasail Cancun permits cameras, but youre responsible if it falls into the sea. Consider asking a friend or someone you trust to take photos and videos from below. Vallarta Parasiling, which services Puerto Vallarta, allows you to take off from the beach. Some say this takeoff point adds a bit more thrill to the experience. New Zealand There are parasailing operators all over New Zealand, including Taupo, Bay of Plenty, and Queenstown. The Paraflights company is based in Queenstown, and their staff is praised for their knowledge and professionalism. Touch the water with your feet on takeoff and departure if you wish. Flights can be booked on the hour, every hour, in summer and winter, if conditions are right. Other recommended areas for parasailing in New Zealand include Rotorua and the spectacular Lake Wanaka. California Theres plenty of parasailing on offer in Californiaits a huge state after all. For a safe and fun experience, book a solo, tandem or triple ride in Long Beach, Newport Beach, Catalina Island, or Lake Tahoe. Youll be between 600 and 800 feet in the air, and you can choose between wet and dry flights. Frijoles, or beans, are a staple in Hispanic cuisine. Most meals feature beans in some form and Hispanic cooking truly celebrates the versatility and of course, deliciousness, of the tiny legumes. Few people know more about the importance of beans in Hispanic cooking than Chef Zee, a New York-based foodie, content creator, and founder of Chef Zee Cooks. Frijoles are the perfect complement to so many dishes in Hispanic cooking, Chef Zee told She Knows. Theyre also really affordable, super nutritious, and super filling so theyre also very accessible. In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Chef Zee showed us two ways to make frijoles: Cuban-style and Dominican-style. Growing up in a Cuban-Dominican household, Chef Zee learned these delicious recipes from her family and considers them a staple in her meal rotation. More from SheKnows You can pair either of these recipes with rice or any starch you want and theyre both out of this world, Chef Zee says. First up, lets dig into the Cuban-style frijoles. Cuban Style Cuban-style frijoles On the Cuban side of the family, black beans reign supreme, Chef Zee says. You want your beans as dark as possible, which you can achieve by stewing them really slowly and making sure that the water they release is as dark as possible. Unlike some other frijole recipes, Chef Zee explained that this Cuban-style recipe doesnt contain as much tomato paste because the tomato paste can change the color of the beans too much. The most exciting part about black beans is when you take a big spoonful and pour it over your rice and it just turns all of the rice black too, Chef Zee says. Click here to read the full article. To make Chef Zees Cuban-style frijoles, you can get the full recipe from Chef Zee Cooks Dominican Style Dominican-style frijoles While black beans steal the show in Chef Zees Cuban-style frijoles, pinto beans take center stage in her Dominican-style frijoles recipe. Dominican beans are so near and dear to my heart, but they couldnt be more different than black beans, Chef Zee explains. Cuban beans are thicker and darker and the flavor profile is different, whereas Dominican beans are more like a soup. To really make the flavors of these Dominican beans shine, Chef Zee likes to add a secret ingredient to add the perfect amount of sweetness. The thing that kind of sets them apart is that theyre a touch more herbaceous, and theyre a little bit sweeter because one of the things that we like to do is add some type of squash or pumpkin to it, Chef Zee says. You can get the full recipe from Chef Zee Cooks. Before you go, check out our gallery: Best of SheKnows Sign up for SheKnows' Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is moving forward with its plans to block Microsofts $69 billion USD purchase of Activision Blizzard. The independent agency had previously filed a bid to delay the buyout in July, an effort that was denied by a judge. Following preliminary approval from the UKs authority on the matter, the Competition and Markets Authority, the deal is scheduled to take place before October 18 on the condition that Microsoft sells off Activisions cloud gaming rights to Ubisoft. The FTC has returned to challenge the acquisition once again, filing a new complaint against the merger that argues the deal will still harm market competition. The FTC continues to believe this deal is a threat to competition, FTC spokesperson Victoria Graham said, per Bloomberg. The FTCs case will be heard before an administrative law judge 21 days after the US Court of Appeals gives its opinion on the matter, but given the UKs approval, its likely the acquisition will go through as planned. Were focused on working with Microsoft toward closing. How the FTC uses limited taxpayer dollars is its decision, an Activision spokesperson said. We still anticipate that we will close the transaction by October 18, and we have full confidence in our case and the deals benefits to gamers and competition, a Microsoft spokesperson added. In other gaming news, Counter-Strike 2 has officially released. It has been over a year since Keanu Reeves made his major red carpet debut with his girlfriend, Alexandra Grant . Reeves took Grant to the LACMA Art + Film Gala in 2019. They walked the red carpet holding hands, sparking romantic rumors. In 2019, People reported the two were dating for months before their big red carpet moment. Stefanie Keenan - Getty Images In March 2023, Reeves discussed Grant in an interview with People, signaling their romance was still going strong. Here, what to know about Reeves' girlfriend. Reeves and Grant have been friends since at least 2011. Their first project together was published then. Grant illustrated Reeves' book Ode to Happiness. The two's relationship became romantic earlier in 2019, and they're ready to be more public. A source told People in 2019 that Keanu wants to openly share his life with her. He is extremely happy and grateful to have Alex in his life. [They] started dating earlier this year, but have wanted to keep it quiet. Grant is a 49-year-old artist who has worked with Reeves on multiple projects. People notes that Grant illustrated two books that Reeves wrote: his 2011 book Ode to Happiness and his 2016 book Shadows. They also founded a publishing company together, X Artists' Books in 2017. According to the company's site, "XAB is a small publisher of thoughtful, high-quality, artist-centered books that fit within and between genres. Our books are works of art; portals to imagined worlds; treasured companions; the fabric of a community. We love the same things about our books as we do about our friends: generosity, open-heartedness, intelligence, mystery, style. They bring sustenance and shift realities. They may occasionally break your heart." Grant and Reeves have gone to multiple red carpet events. In June 2019, the two attended Saint Laurent's fashion show together, and they held hands(!!): Neilson Barnard - Getty Images In May 2019, they attended the MOCA Benefit: Rachel Luna - Getty Images The two made their event debut as friends in 2016. Reeves and Grant were first photographed together at the UNAIDS Galaat Design Miami/Basel in Switzerland. David M. Benett - Getty Images Reeves and Grant were photographed out on a possible dinner date in October 2019. According to People, the two were photographed at Giorgio Baldi in October 2019. They "arrived together in Reeves Porsche and spent three hours inside the restaurant conversing and sharing a meal." They left together. Grant can officiate weddings. As People pointed out, the artist shared photos of her Instagram showing herself presiding over her friend's ceremony in Brooklyn. Grant is based in Los Angeles but has lived in four different countries. On her artist site's bio, Grant wrote that her living abroad in Mexico, France, and Spain in her childhood and adolescence has strongly inspired her language-based work. Per her bio, "Some of the basic questions that fuel her practice are: How do the languages we speak and the images we see form how we think and exchange ideas? How can artists and writers work to create and influence culture in an increasingly technology-driven world?" She told LA Weekly in May 2019, of why she lives in that city, "I grew up in part in Mexico City, Washington, DC, and Paris, moving between languages and cultures. Los Angeles felt like home from the moment I first arrived in 1995, especially the diversity of people, idioms, foods, and plants (like jacaranda and bougainvillea). Theres an incredible work ethic heremany people are creative and entrepreneurial. Having friends who are working hard practicing their craftswhether its set design, publishing, or actingis very inspiring." Grant opened up about her relationship with Reeves in March 2020. A year ago, Grant spoke with Vogue about her relationship with Reeves. When asked about her and Reeves's debut as a couple, Grant had mixed emotions. "I think every single person I knew called me in the first week of November, and that's fascinating, but the question I've been asking in all of this is: 'What is the opportunity for good," she said. Reeves and Grant enjoyed a rare night out in March 2021. Over a year into quarantine, Grant and Reeves' romance is still going strong. The private twosome were seen dining at Spago in Beverly Hills. Reeves' Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure co-star Alex Winter and his family attended as well. Reeves and Grant were photographed wearing matching black outfits as they left the restaurant. The outing was one of the first public sightings of the couple in the new year. Reeves and Grant enjoyed a date night in NYC in July 2022. Keanu Reeves Alexandra Grant went to see a play in New York City on Friday, July 8. The show is a production of American Buffalo that stars Reeves' Matrix co-star, Laurence Fishburne. The couple went out looking elegant, but comfortable. Reeves was wearing a black t-shirt with a blazer in a dark grey that matched his slacks, paired with brown leather shoes. Grant wore a sleeveless navy blue dress that stopped just above her ankles, showing off her sandals covered in small gold beading. MEGA - Getty Images Reeves spoke about his life with Grant in March 2023. In an interview with People published on March 28, he discussed Grant being the person with whom he spent his last moment of bliss. A couple of days ago with my honey [was my last moment of bliss], he said. We were in bed. We were connected. We were smiling and laughing and giggling. Feeling great. It was just really nice to be together. They shared a little red carpet PDA in April 2023. In April, Reeves and Grant walked the red carpet at the Museum of Contemporary Art Gala in Los Angeles. They paused to share a kiss together in front of photographers. Momodu Mansaray - Getty Images In September 2023, Grant made a rare comment on her relationship. Grant was honored at the Los Angeles Beverly Arts Icon Awards on Friday, September 22, and was asked about Reeves by reporters, specifically what it's like dating someone so famous. The good news about falling in love as an adult is that I had built my own career by the time that my relationship had begun, she told People. I feel very confident in the relationship on the red carpet. I feel confident on it alone. She also shared a story about working on her art and sharing frustrations with her boyfriend. In a moment of frustration in my life, I once said, Sometimes I feel like a Maserati stuck in traffic, that I have this big engine, but, for a variety of reasons, that I couldn't ever go, she explained. And I know a lot of people feel frustrated in their lives, that they're not able to run their engine. I think every creative person feels that way. She continued, What I love about Keanu and our exchange is that we're pushing each other to build new roads. Seeing the other person's problem-solving is inspiring, like, Oh, well, okay, this one, that's a cul-de-sac. How do I try this other thing? Grant also drew a connection to what they both do as artists, even though they work in different mediums. He's such an inspiration to me. He's so creative, he's so kind, she said. He works so hard. To make a film, you require hundreds of people. To be an artist, you don't. You require one. You require a community to get the work into the world, but not to actually make it. I think part of the inspiration is the differences of scale. She also talked about Reeves' other project, his band Dogstar. I'm really proud, she said. I am a huge Dogstar fan. I had the great pleasure of going to their first public show and because I've been listening to the latest album for quite some time, I was one of the only people in the audience who knew all the lyrics. That was really cool. It's fun. It's beyond fun. You Might Also Like Slovak model Lucia Dvorska appeared in the SI Swimsuit Issue in 2009 after traveling to Cappadocia, Turkey, where she posed for photographer Yu Tsai. In addition to her feature in the annual issue, the 35-year-old has worked with a number of other notable brands, and has even been featured on the cover of several publications. Dvorska has modeled for Bangle, walked the runway for Brazilian fashion designer Patricia Viera, and was on the cover of Vogue Brazil two years before her SI Swimsuit debut. I dont have any story that somebody found me on the street, Dvorska admitted while on location of her career trajectory. I just came to an agency, knocked on the door, [asked] Can I be a model? [they responded] Yeah, sure! and then I started to travel and model until now and I love it. While in Turkey, Dvorska modeled a number of bright and colorful swimwear looks, from stringy bikini bottoms to matching patterned two-piece sets. Her photoshoot took place within the cityscape, so it was a bit of a departure from typical SI Swimsuit features that are photographed right on the beach. Regardless, the model nailed each of her looks, and the timeless nature of each picture makes it hard to believe this feature took place 14 years ago. Below are a few of our favorites from Dvorskas SI Swimsuit photoshoot in Turkey. Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated Make sure to follow SI Swimsuit on YouTube! Back in 2021, Manolo Blahnik introduced a virtual archive on its website where you can freely explore the world of the luxury shoemaker, from the eponymous designers first-ever silhouette to his muses and inspiration throughout the decades. And on October 3, the brand will be adding a new roomThe Craft Roomwhich will showcase the incredible craftsmanship that goes into each covetable pair (including the Carrie Bradshaw-beloved Hangisi). Not only does it offer an unparalleled look into the world of fine shoemaking, with eight separate rooms dedicated to specific parts of the shoemaking journeybut its a celebration of all things Manolo, from its custom processes to the signature lace and buckles. edoardo delille To properly unveil the new venture, Manolo Blahnik hosted an exclusive trip to its factory in Vigevano, Italy, bringing to life the journey from sketch to shoe. In Milan, ELLE had the privilege of visiting some of Blahniks favorite places, discovered where he finds inspiration for his collections, and even experienced a day in the factory to watch the full construction process and artisans at work firsthand. Below, the veteran founder discusses why he wanted to bring The Craft Room to life digitally, his muses, and more. What prompted you to put The Craft Room online? What do you want customers to experience when they see it? The whole experience is a big thank you to the artisans that I work with in the factories. I work so incredibly closely with all the wonderful artisans, and have done for almost 35 years. Craftsmanship is in their blood, passed down over generations. The Craft Room celebrates their work, and I hope it showcases that I would be nowhere without their magic hands. Also, the fact that it is online means anyone is able to see it from anywhere in the world. How exciting! Courtesy of Manolo Blahnik When it comes to designing a new shoe, where does the process begin? Are there specific inspirations you draw from, or stories you want to tell? For me, everything starts with a sketch. I need to get it on paper first before anything else happens. I communicate through drawing. The next stage is speaking to the artisans in the factories so they can begin to build the shoe. The team there knows exactly what I am thinking, and strives to bring all my creations to life. Even with the most intricate and embellished designs, they are always pushing boundaries to ensure complete perfection and attention to detail. My inspiration comes from anywhere and everywhere! These days, I spend a lot of time in nature, and find I get a lot of inspiration from my surroundings. OLIVIA BOSSERT The archive takes us through 50 years of design. How has your craftsmanship and process evolved over time, and what about that evolution are you most proud of? My process has not changed at all! The sketch still comes first. I always carry my pens and paper with me so that when inspiration comes, I am always ready. Or else I forget it and the shoe is gone! I have been working with the artisans for so long, its like we have a secret languagethey feel like family. I am so proud that we have been able to put family first in our business. We are a family that makes beautiful things that we hope make people smile. Thats the most important thing for me. Courtesy of Manolo Blahnik How instrumental is fabric selection and color in that process? Where and how exactly does that come into play? It is extremely important. Once we have decided on the shape and how the shoe will be made, we look into fabric and colors. Sometimes, the fabric and colors are so clear in my mind that the shoe must be made exactly how I envision it. Other times, the shoe needs some experimentation, some trial and error. Some fabrics will work, and others will not. When we see the right fabric and the right color for the right shoe, we know immediatelyits a gut feeling. There is a collective gasp with the artisans! You have many muses. How would you define a Manolo muse? Who is the woman you have in mind when you design, and what does she want from her shoes? There is not one type of Manolo muse, so I find it hard to define. Tina Chow was a muse of mine for so long, and I miss her dearly. The same with Anna Piaggi and Isabella Blow. I have so much to thank Diana Vreeland for. All of these women had the most extraordinary style, and that is something all of my muses seem to have in common. I simply love designing for beautiful women who have an enriched life. You recently started using a water-based glue in the assembly process. Are there other sustainability goals you are hoping to achieve in the future? We dont call it sustainability because I feel sustainability is misunderstood. Its binaryyou either are, or you are not. We use the term responsibility because it is a journey. There is a consistent, continuous, growing roadmap that we are on, looking at how we can improve and move forward. Its a more realistic approach. Were on that journey. We have a lot to do, but have had great success so far, and we are constantly striving to be better. This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. You Might Also Like Clare Vivier is coming full circle for her 15th anniversary year, launching a collaboration that brings her Los Angeles-Francais style back to where it all began. On Oct. 25, she will launch a collection with affordable French retail chain Monoprix. Comprised of clothing for women and children, accessories, homewares and tabletop, the range demonstrates how far the L.A. designers accessible fashion brand has come since it started 15 years ago with one simple tote, Le Tropezienne and how much room it still has to grow. More from WWD Vivier is also marking her 15th anniversary with a new Rizzoli book, La Vie de Clare V., which will be feted on Sunday at Paris Ofr bookstore. Clare V. x Monoprix will be available in France at Monoprix stores, and in the U.S. on the designers website and in her NoLIta, San Francisco and West Hollywood stores (the first time Monoprix has ever been sold in the U.S.). Prices range from about $6 for a pair of lip-print childrens socks to $60 for a checkerboard canvas tote to $80 for a green leopard spot khaki bomber. Its her first big push into the international market, and to celebrate, shes opening a pop-up shop in the Marais in Paris on Monday. The boutique will carry Clare V. and Monoprix product, and be open through December. Maybe to some American designers, they wouldnt be so excited about it, but Monoprix and what it means to the French public, I immediately responded, oh my god, yes!' Vivier said in an interview at her studio in L.A.s Frogtown, explaining that the retailer reached out to her via DM on Instagram. When I moved to Paris when I was 24 years old, thats when I discovered Monoprix. And to me it felt like a higher-end Target. Because I would go there all the time for beautiful lingerie. And that was a very big cultural difference. In the U.S., there is not a big emphasis on pretty lingerie and the matching set. It made me feel very much like a lady. And theyre very good quality, but stuff that I could actually afford. So of course, Ive been going back ever since. It was during a stay in Los Angeles that we fell in love with the brand Clare V. Her insolent French touch, tinged with American coolness literally got us on board. It was the ideal collab for us. This is a fresh and offbeat American vision of a French lifestyle with a humorous wink so close to the DNA of Monoprix, said Cecile Coquelet, creative director of Monoprix. Clare V. x Monoprix In 15 years, Vivier has turned her love of French chic and American prep into a made-in-L.A. success story, creating a distinct and colorful, fun-loving brand of bags, small accessories, apparel and jewelry selling at Nordstrom, Anthropologie and Shopbop, as well as her 15 boutiques in the U.S. Theres the French language aspect, and then the French culture aspect in that theres a real classic style to French people, Vivier said of the genesis of her brand, recalling how she borrowed her French sister-in-laws belt bag for a market outing 20 years ago, wore it with a shirtdress, and was later inspired to design Grande Fanny, one of her bestselling handbag styles. Vivier is creative director, chief executive officer, and majority investor in her brand, which doesnt have any private equity or venture capital money behind it, but does have Bedrock Apparel as its largest minority investor. She runs a profitable, debt-free business with more than 110 employees, and a 30 percent growth trajectory over the past three years. Her fan base is so dedicated that the brands annual sample sale, held last weekend, drew 3,800 people who started lining up at The Row in downtown L.A. before 5 a.m. Described as the Super Bowl by fashionable attendees and covered by The New York Times Style section the two-day event has generated more than $1 million in sales. Clare V. x Monoprix Im very grateful. And I still love coming to work every day, the designer said in her sunny showroom, filled with books on everyone from Ed Ruscha to Joan Miro, as well as her fall collection of red lip-print shirtdresses, chocolate-brown cotton fleece snap-front ruffle jackets, black suede-and-napa checkerboard clutches, and colorful T-shirts, sweatshirts and hats emblazoned with words and phrases such as discotheque and liberez les sardines. Viviers obsession with bags started in childhood with her fathers Lands End briefcase. It was a canvas briefcase that zipped all the way around and had his initials on it, my first monogram experience, she says. She grew up in a family of six kids in Minnesota; mom Patty Guerrero was a teacher, and dad Manuel Guerrero a lawyer who did pro bono work on behalf of Mexican American laborers in the Twin Cities, a cause that has inspired Vivier to make products that give profits to social justice causes such as Everytown for Gun Safety and The Center for Reproductive Rights. Clare V. x Monoprix She moved to Paris because she wanted to learn about fashion, and began working at a documentary film production company and waiting tables on the side. After marrying journalist Thierry Vivier, they relocated to L.A. She brought her admiration of French chic with her, and launched a blog, where she would document her wardrobe, including thrift-store finds. When friends and coworkers admired a one-off non-boring commuter bag Vivier made for herself, she started to think bigger. Her brand grew to include minimalist yet warm designs flat leather pouches with bold-stripe details or animal patterns, fold-over clutches, totes and duffels that can be monogrammed, all priced less than $600. Then, two years ago, she launched apparel, followed by jewelry. Color, typefaces and hand-painted signs have been design influences. For example, she was inspired to create a ribbon typeface in her jewelry collection after playing with pieces of torn ribbon and making them into letters. Its no wonder Rizzoli approached her about writing a book. Its a fun way to mark this anniversary, and it was such an amazing exercise of going through all of our imagery for the past 15 years. What I discovered is theres so much about this brand that is perfectly imperfect. Theres gorgeous materials and gorgeous design, but we dont take ourselves too seriously. And there is a hand touched element to it, she said. The books forward was written by Christy Turlington, whom Vivier has partnered with in raising awareness and more than $250,000 for maternal health through nonprofit Every Mother Counts. And the afterward is by Jimmy Kimmel, who discovered the brand in 2010 and has made it his go-to for gifts and accessories, including the tongue-in-cheek Airport Dad Passport Case, which he and Vivier designed together. In the book, the designer includes some of the mirror selfies she posted on her blog and Instagram account over the years, and one can see her clothing also turn up on models and friends in photo shoots, like a sisterhood of Clares closet. If were talking about the history of the brand, thats really how I started with a blog and the whole idea was documenting my life to try to get people to see behind the scenes of how a handbag company is being built. Now with Instagram and TikTok, everyones lives are completely exposed. But if you can think back to 2006 it wasnt like that. But I was reading a daily blog about a young woman who lived in Paris, and I realized if Im curious about her life, someone else is probably curious about my life. I live in Los Angeles. I have a young son, Im married to a French person, Im starting a company. Vivier still loves to play with fashion, including lots of vintage, clothing from other female-led brands such as Isabel Marant, Ulla Johnson and Rachel Comey, as well as a great pair of Celine or Chanel shoes, or even cowboy boots. I dont only wear Clare V. We want people to express themselves, she said. La Vie De Clare V. (Rizzoli) Weve experimented with some stylists in the past and its been fun and a luxury, but we realized that theres kind of nothing better than just having the model wear our own clothes and its mostly my clothes. And what weve figured out is that way the brand feels much more personal, like an extension of the founder. The designer became a French citizen this year. My husband and I bought a house in 2020 in his hometown, Saint-Calais. Now hes an American and French citizen and Im an American and French citizen, she said. Once the house is restored, the dream is to turn it into a showroom for the growing brand, and have a few rooms that would be available for guests to rent. I think we have so much room to grow. I would love to have Clare V. boutiques in all the great cities in this country and then around the world. I would love to get into furniture and home accessories. What keeps her going is creating. I love being able to dream of something and see it into fruition. I love that it brings other people joy.And I love being in fashion in Los Angeles, because were kind of outliers. Best of WWD Click here to read the full article. Revenue of 4.3 million in the first half of 2023, +4% compared with H1 2022 Continued dynamic R&D investment coupled with strict management of operating expenses, down 4% over the period Planned capital increase with preferential subscription rights, guaranteed up to 5.0 million by Sanyou Medical and subject to a General Meeting to be convened BORDEAUX, France & BOSTON, September 28, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Regulatory News: IMPLANET (Euronext Growth: ALIMP, FR0013470168, eligible for PEA-PME plans), a medical technology company specializing in vertebral implants for orthopedic surgery and the distribution of technological medical equipment, today announced its results for the first half of the current financial year, ending June 30, 2023, as approved by the Board of Directors on September 26, 2023. Ludovic Lastennet, IMPLANETs CEO, stated: "In line with previous years, IMPLANET pursued its profound transformation in the first few months of 2023. In addition to the various product launches we achieved through our merger with OSD and our alliance with Sanyou Medical, we succeeded in controlling our operating expenses while maintaining a proactive investment policy. This last point, essential to our strategy, will enable us in the short and medium term to secure the renewal of our CE markings and marketing authorizations across the world. At the same time, our strategic partnership with Sanyou enjoyed its first technological and commercial advances during this period. We are also looking forward to announcing the first training courses for Chinese surgeons and the pre-launch of our JAZZ range in China, as part of the preparation of the CFDA (Chinese Health Authorities) dossier, for which submission is still scheduled for the end of this year. Our alliance with our Chinese partner will thus see further progress in the coming months, notably through a fund-raising operation scheduled for January 2024, which will boost our financial visibility and to which Sanyou intends to make a major contribution." Story continues In thousands - IFRS - Simplified income statement H1 2023 H1 2022 Change % Revenue 4,268 4,112 4% Cost of goods sold -1,805 -1,502 20% Gross margin 2,463 2,611 -6% Gross margin % 57.7% 63.5% -5.8 bp Operating costs -4,583 -4,798 -4% Recurring operating profit/loss -2,119 -2,188 3% Other non-recurring operating income and expenses -89 0 n.a Operating profit/loss -2 209 -2 188 -3% Financial profit/loss -62 -103 -160% Net result -2,270 -2,084 -9% *Unaudited figures Revenue In the first half of 2023, revenue came to 4.27 million, up +4% on the first half of 2022. Sales in the Spine business slowed slightly, by around 4%, from 4.09 million to 3.94 million. Sales in the French and US markets, where the Company operates directly, were stable over the period, at 1.80 million and 0.80 million respectively. Export business, particularly in Europe and Latin America, was down by around 10% compared with the first half of 20221. On the other hand, the Company confirmed the sales momentum of its new SMTP Medical Equipment business over the period and recorded the first positive results of the partnership with Sanyou Medical. Indeed, as announced on June 21, 2023, the Company initiated the launch of a minimally invasive pedicle screw positioning system in Europe and has already booked its first orders. Gross margin and operating income The gross margin was 2.46 million in the first half of 2023 versus 2.61 million for the same period of 2022, a decrease of approximately 6%. This decrease was mainly a result of the product mix, the launch of the SMTP medical equipment ranges and the minimally invasive pedicle screw positioning system leading to a decrease in the gross margin from 63.5% to 57.7% between the first half of 2022 and the first half of 2023. At the same time, over the period the Company continued its policy of investing in quality control and regulatory affairs in order to secure the renewal of its marking and marketing approvals for its implants under the new European Medical Device Regulation (MDR), while successfully reducing its operating expenses by 0.22 million compared with the first half of 2022. This decrease has been the result of tight control over operating spending and a decrease in the commissions paid to sales agents in France and the United States. As a result, the recurring operating loss was reduced by 3%, to -2.12 million in the first half of 2023 compared with -2.19 million in the first half of 2022. Given these elements, non-recurring exceptional expenses of 0.09m and a financial result of -0.06m, the net result was -2.27 million in the first half of 2023 compared with -2.08 million in the first half of 2022. Cash position As of June 30, 2023, Implanet had a cash position of 1.5 million. It stood at 0.3 million on August 31, 2023. The cash position, which is lower than anticipated following a cyclical slowdown in business in the United States in July and August, and the postponement of the launch of the first SMTP medical equipment in France, is not sufficient in view of the Company's current operational development plan to finance business over the next twelve months, and in particular the needs associated with the continued development of the Sanyou Medical project. In this context, IMPLANET needs to find new financing in the short term. The Company is looking into the most appropriate means of financing to enable it to implement its development plan. Accordingly, the Company plans to launch a new fundraising operation with preferential subscription rights (DPS) for an amount of between 5.5 million and 6.4 million in January 2024. To this end, the Company plans to convene its shareholders at a General Meeting in November 2023, in order to obtain the necessary financial authorization required for its eventual implementation. SHANGHAI SANYOU MEDICAL Co. LTD, a 41.03% shareholder in IMPLANET, committed itself, in the event of the implementation of such a transaction, to subscribe to the capital increase in cash, on an irreducible and reducible basis, subject to (i) the approval of Sanyou's Board of Directors, (ii) obtaining prior approval from the Autorite des marches financiers (AMF) for a waiver of the obligation to file a public tender offer (in accordance with provisions 234-8 and 234-9, 2 of the AMF General Regulations) in the event of a post-transaction crossing of the 50% capital threshold, and (iii) control by the relevant Chinese government authorities. Depending on the level of participation of IMPLANET's shareholders, Sanyou Medical could be required to exceed the threshold of 50% of IMPLANET's capital and voting rights, i.e. the threshold constituting the implementation of a mandatory tender offer. As the implementation of such an operation would require several months (time needed to convene a General Meeting, time needed to obtain a waiver from the obligation to file a takeover bid, and time needed to obtain the approval of the relevant Chinese government authorities), the Company is actively seeking bridge financing. Several proposals are currently under consideration for the implementation of a short-term financing of 1.0 million, which could take the form of a loan either in the form of OCAs or dry bonds, although the Company wishes to give preference to the implementation of financing in the latter form. Based on current business assumptions and anticipated commercial developments with Sanyou Medical, the Company estimates that this capital increase, for a minimum amount of 5.0 million, would give it financial visibility of over 12 months once completed. 2023 1st half-year highlights Commercial launch of the ultrasound surgical scalpel from SMTP, a subsidiary of Sanyou Medical, in March 2023; FDA approval for the Squale TM range of anterior cervical cages in the United States; Commercial launch in Europe of the MIS range, a minimally invasive pedicle screw positioning system. Strategy and outlook for the coming 12 months Finalize the registration of existing products within the framework of the European Medical Device Regulation (MDR). Reinvigorate the Companys presence in the United States: strengthen the resources and commercial means made available to the historical team; strengthen the Companys direct approach by expanding our scientific team of thought leaders; successfully register, with the FDA, the Origin TM product range resulting from the OSD acquisition. Strengthen market momentum and the product offering: continue developing our existing strategic partnerships in the United States (SeaSpine) and Germany (ulrich medical ); deploy the commercial and technological partnership with Sanyou Medical to jointly develop an innovative new European range of hybrid posterior fixation; initiate the distribution of the JAZZ platform in China (the worlds largest spine market by volume) with Sanyou Medical; distribute technological medical equipment in Europe such as SMTP Technology Co.s ultrasound surgical scalpel. Upcoming financial press release 2023 third-quarter revenue, October 17, 2023, after market close About IMPLANET Founded in 2007, IMPLANET is a medical technology company that manufactures high-quality implants for orthopedic surgery and distributing medical technology equipment. Its activity revolves around a comprehensive innovative solution for improving the treatment of spinal pathologies (JAZZ) complemented by the product range offered by Orthopaedic & Spine Development (OSD), acquired in May 2021 (thoraco-lumbar screws, cages and cervical plates). Implanets tried-and-tested orthopedic platform is based on the traceability of its products. Protected by four families of international patents, JAZZ has obtained 510(k) regulatory clearance from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States, the CE mark in Europe and ANVISA approval in Brazil. In 2022, IMPLANET entered into a commercial, technological and financial partnership with SANYOU MEDICAL, China's second largest medical device manufacturer. IMPLANET employs 43 staff and recorded a consolidated revenue of 8.0 million in 2022. Based near Bordeaux in France, IMPLANET opened a US subsidiary in Boston in 2013. IMPLANET is listed on the Euronext Growth market in Paris. For further information, please visit www.Implanet.com. Disclaimer This press release contains forward-looking statements about Implanet and its business. Implanet believes that these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions. However, no assurance can be given that the forecasts expressed in these forward-looking statements will materialize, as they are subject to risks, including those described in Implanet's reference document filed with the Autorite des marches financiers (AMF) on April 16, 2018 under number D.18-0337 and in the annual financial report for December 31, 2022, which are available on the Company's website (www.implanet-invest.com), and to changes in economic conditions, financial markets and the markets in which Implanet operates. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to risks that are unknown to Implanet or that Implanet does not currently consider material. The occurrence of some or all of these risks could cause Implanet's actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. This press release is for information purposes only and does not and shall not under any circumstances constitute an offer to sell or subscribe, or the solicitation of an order to buy or subscribe, Implanet securities in any country. 1 See press release published by the Company on July 11, 2023 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230927103167/en/ Contacts IMPLANET Ludovic Lastennet, CEO David Dieumegard, CFO Tel. : +33 (0)5 57 99 55 55 investors@Implanet.com NewCap Investor Relations Mathilde Bohin Nicolas Fossiez Tel.: +33 (0)1 44 71 94 94 Implanet@newcap.eu NewCap Media Relations Arthur Rouille Tel.: +33 (0)1 44 71 94 94 Implanet@newcap.eu What you need to know One UI 6 Beta 5 is rolling out on the Galaxy S23 series in the U.K., India, and Germany. The patch aims to finally rectify a few persistent bugs Samsung has grappled with throughout the One UI 6 test. Samsung recently previewed its Good Lock 6 update, which will arrive shortly after One UI 6 is officially released to all users. Samsung is continuing to swiftly produce new builds for its upcoming major Android OS update. As spotted by Tarun Vats on X, the Korean OEM is rolling out One UI 6 Beta 5 to the Galaxy S23 Ultra and its siblings. Two of the devices will find update version ZWIK, while another will find ZWIE. The build for enrolled Samsung testers arrives with a 750MB download size. It looks like Samsung is more focused on fixing some of the more pertinent bugs that have cropped up throughout the beta testing for One UI 6 (Android 14). In Beta 4, it was mentioned that Motion Photo was appearing unavailable for users. The fixes wrapped in Beta 5 mention a fix for Motion Photo, so users should (hopefully) find the feature working moving forward. Moreover, the aforementioned fix involving Maintenance Mode was another problem Samsung made note of as being a "known issue" during the previous beta. Fixed the problem of not being able to record during a call Fixed no touch at the bottom of the screen or ghost touch issue Fixed the issues of stuck after entering camera, forced termination, and not being able to take pictures Fixed infinite rebooting problem when entering Maintenance Mode Vats noted One UI Beta 5 is making its rounds to the Galaxy S23 series in the U.K. while users in the comments have reported receiving it in Germany and India, as well. Those in the U.S. will likely have to wait a little longer until the beta pops up to download for those who are enrolled. Additionally, countries like Poland and, perhaps, South Korea are still awaiting it. We're all still eagerly awaiting Android 14 and, by extension, One UI 6 from Samsung. There's a possibility that we're approaching the finish line where the software is released officially to all Galaxy S23 owners first before trickling down the line. It has been suggested that Google is withholding the full release of Android 14 so its launch can coincide with its Pixel 8 reveal in October. To hold us over we have Beta 5 and Samsung's recent rundown of what users can expect from its lighter-than-usual Good Lock 6 update. The software will focus more on stability but will include a few notable features, as well once One UI 6 sees its full release later this year. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Samsung's Galaxy S23 Ultra prides itself on remaining on the cutting edge of the universe's technological ability. The device features a 6.8-inch display that immerses your entire vision in whatever you're scrolling, watching, or playing. The S23 Ultra contains a battery with enough power to last for 2 days before needing a little time to recharge. Otrium, the digital off-price fashion outlet, has announced a partnership with The Renewal Workshop (TRW) on a dedicated garment refurbishment and repair service. The deal is in collaboration with Bleckmann, experts in fashion supply chain management, which bought TRW in March of last year. Six-year-old Otrium raised a $120 million Series C two years ago and now counts 4 million registered users. New companies to join the platform include Paige, Diane von Furstenburg, Thakoon and All Saints, alongside flagship brands such as Reiss, Tommy Hilfiger and Asics. More than 400 fashion players use Otrium to manage their excess and end-of-season inventory, bringing a Century 21-style shopping experience into the digital realm where customers get up to 75 percent off premium and designer brands. More from Sourcing Journal The new repair agreement means Otrium can look to Bleckmanns circular fashion team to manage damaged returns and help reduce the fashion industrys growing textile waste problem. Bleckmanns integrated data capabilities were a critical draw for Otrium, which shares the view of the importance of data collection and analysis in successful sustainability plans. Using our advanced stock tracking systems, we determined that 70 percent of the renewed Otrium stock had been sold within seven weeks, said Tamara Zwart, Bleckmanns director of renewal. The agreement between Otrium and Bleckmann came following a three-month pilot program at the Bleckmann facility in Almelo, the Netherlands, to expand the range of repair services and optimize processes through data analysis. During the 90-day trial, TRWs team refurbished more than 3,000 Otrium items that included garments, shoes and accessories. The trial focused on a diverse product range to make sure the system could handle a variety of items. The Renewal Workshop team worked closely with us to develop a streamlined and scalable process that could grow in line with our ambitions, said Otrium head of sustainability, Marlot Kiveron. The pilot program was rooted in the companies mutual conviction that most returned clothing can be restored and resold, as Kevin Carolan, Otrium logistics director, said. Preventing waste is an important part of Otriums DNA. Thanks to our partnership with Bleckmann and their Renewal Workshop team, we can now repair the majority of damaged returns and put them back into circulation, he added. Earlier this year, Otrium partnered with Vaayu, a carbon-tracking startup, on an investigation of the carbon emissions and waste-saving potential of fashion outlet business models. Vaayus study revealed that on average, a refurbished return sold on the fashion outlet platform avoids 2,760 kilograms of carbon emissions and 69 grams of waste. The three companies aim to expand in a major way. By the end of 2023, they expect to repair some 25,000 items. TRW is a significant player in fashion repair. It has worked with Champion, Arcteryx, The North Face, H&Ms Cos division, Tommy Hilfiger, Mara Hoffman, Coyuchi and Adidas. Additional reporting by Jessica Binns. Click here to read the full article. Queen Maxima of the Netherlands looked fabulous in a forest green leather skirt as she stepped out for a royal work day in Amsterdam on Wednesday. Queen Maxima chose a bold leather skirt with an autumnal patterned blouse and a pair of timeless navy stilettos as she stepped out for an official engagement in Amsterdam. The Dutch Queen paid a visit to organisations offering initiatives to battle loneliness in the city as part of the Week Against Loneliness. In other royal news, Kate Middleton's Zara blazer she has in multiple colours is still available to buy and you're going to want one in your wardrobe. Queen Maxima of the Netherlands looked ultra autumnal as she stepped out in Amsterdam for a day of royal work as part of the Week Against Loneliness. The stylish European royal often wows with her sartorial choices when appearing for official engagements and visits and recently impressed as she braved the rain in a cream dress with chestnut accessories and her bold orange dress with matching clutch and heels. Queen Maxima green leather skirt Love & Roses Faux Leather Split Front Midi Skirt, 43 | Next This faux leather leafy green midi skirt from Next is ideal for replicating Queen Maxima's style for autumn. The figure-skimming piece is an ideal addition to a capsule wardrobe as the weather gets chillier and can easily be dressed up or down with the addition of heels and a blouse or a cosy knitted jumper and trainers. It's available in sizes 8 to 22 and comes in petite, too. Cream & Black Splatter Satin Pussybow Blouse, 35|Hawes & Curtis Patterned pussybow blouses are a great wardrobe staple for autumn and winter. We love this satin one from Hawes & Curtis featuring a cream and black splatter pattern, smart cuffed sleeves and feminine tie neck detail. It's also on sale right now with sizes 6 to 22 still available. But this time it was a statement leather skirt in a moss green hue that caught the attention of royal fashion fans, which Maxima, who is married to King Willem-Alexander, styled with a red and green patterned pussy bow shirt. The eye-catching leather skirt was the showstopper of the outfit, with the piece boasting a large buckle belt detail and flattering flared hem. As for accessories, Maxima carried a coordinating leather green clutch with a simple folding closure and chose a style of heel that features heavily in Kate Middleton's very own designer heel collection. Queen Maxima green leather skirt The Gianvito Rossi 105 pumps are an option we often see the Princess of Wales opt for and she owns them in a range of colours. For Maxima, a sleek navy pair of the iconic shoes were the perfect addition to her professional yet chic look. When it came to makeup and hair, Queen Maxima wore her blonde tresses in a loose, tousled style, choosing a classic smokey eye and a peachy pink lip shade. Live out your golden years for less. Living out your golden years in style is what retirement should be all about. And that includes soaking in as much sun and fun as possible, which is why many Americans (more than 60,000 of them, according to statistics by the Social Security Administration) choose to move to Mexico upon retirement. But Mexico is a pretty big nation, so where, exactly, should soon-to-be retirees be looking? GoBankingRates conducted a study of small towns throughout Mexico to find out. Mexico is blessed with sunshine, culture, and food loved the world over, GoBankingRates wrote in its findings. But best of all for retirees, perhaps, is its affordability. Specifically, GoBankingRates wanted to find the 10 best places to retire in Mexico for under $2,500 a month. It analyzed the cost of living in various cities around the nation using the service Numbeo Cost of Living. To qualify for its analysis, the cities had to have every data point available for accurate calculations, including the cost of eating out, groceries, rent, mortgages, transportation, clothing, utilities, and even down to the cost of leisure. The rent price was calculated off the cost of a one-bedroom home or apartment located within a city center and out of the city center and three-bedroom homes or apartments in the same proximity. Jeremy Woodhouse/Getty Images After analyzing the data, it found the city of Aguascalientes, located in central Mexico, to be the most affordable. 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, the findings read. At just $169.81 and $384.31 per month, respectively, Aguascalientes has the lowest costs of any city surveyed in those categories. The analysis showed that the average monthly expenditures for a single person in the city, including rent, is just $861.59, and without rent, it falls to $583. As for where else retirees should look, Ensenada, Veracruz, Puebla, Saltillo, Queretaro, Tijuana, Playa del Carmen, La Paz, and Mazatlan all made the list as well. To see all the findings and available data, visit gobankingrates.com. Related: Here's How Much Money You Actually Need to Retire at 55 For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on Travel & Leisure. This summer 23-year-old Daniel Delph was captaining a charter trip out of the Florida Keys to the Tortugas area near Key West. It was a long, 75-mile run one way, even for DelphFishings well-rigged 41-foot Sea Hunter catamaran. At the Tortugas on July 31, Capt. Daniel and his party of four anglers set up for bottom fishing, and it wasnt long before one of his anglers hooked a heavy fish at about 300 feet. He had just hooked the fish, and sharks got it immediately, right away, Capt. Billy Delph, Daniels father, tells Outdoor Life. (Daniel Delph was running a charter and was not available for an interview.) All that came up was a massive red head. The other half of that beautiful record red snapper fed the ravenous sharks that are impossible to avoid today ... We catch lots of snapper [and] see big ones all the time. Our best guess was that fish whole and intact was about 55 pounds. It likely would have been an IGFA All-Tackle record for the species. The current world-record red snapper on the IGFA books is just over 50 pounds. While the July incident was disheartening for both the angler and the Delphs, Billy says its an example of a much larger issue thats devastating to marine fisheries. More fish mutilated by sharks before they were boated by DelphFishing's clients. Every year [becomes] the worst year weve ever experienced with sharks mutilating and taking our hooked fish, Billy explains. And thats been going on for a decade. Every year [is] worse than the last because sharks are overpopulated and chomp about 80 percent of the fish we hook. DelphFishing is chiefly an offshore, deep-water Key West operation. So the sharks they commonly encounter are deep-water species such as sandbars and duskys in the 200-pound and larger range. Its not uncommon for them to encounter a wide range of species, including great whites. Much the same problem exists with abundant sharks throughout the coastal South from the Carolinas south to Florida, around the Florida peninsula, through Florida Bay and into the Gulf of Mexico to Louisiana and Texas. Louisiana recently increased its commercial shark limits to account for the rising shark numbers. Back in the 1980s and 1990s, we had trouble with sharks taking fish occasionally, says Billy, 43. But today its 200 percent worse than it ever was. Its devastating to our marine fisheries. Its just so frustrating. The Delphs say the shark problem has worsened every year over the last decade. Laws protecting sharks from harvest have been enacted throughout much of their range, especially in U.S. waters where federal and state laws carefully regulate most species. Many anglers believe such strict shark harvest regulations have surpassed their usefulness at conserving sharks and moved from scientific management to protection ideology. So many people think sharks are endangered and thats not the case, Billy continues. We work hard to avoid sharks. We never anchor, and we never fish more than 10 to 15 minutes in one spotwe must move around to avoid sharks. But it doesnt matter where you fish, sharks are everywhere. Read Next: Canadian Angler Hooks a Great White Shark from a Kayak Billy says sharks have even altered his fishing business operation. The biggest threats to our angling and guiding business are the economy, fishery closures by federal agencies , and sharks At times shark depredation on our hooked fish is so consistently devastating that weve quit fishing for snapper or grouper and changed angling areas and tactics for other species like swordfish. It makes no sense to hook snapper or grouper just to feed them to sharks. Bull elk are notoriously ornery this time of year, but it's not often that a testosterone-fueled male unleashes the full force of its antlers on an unsuspecting female. That's exactly what happened, however, in a series of photographs shot by wildlife photographer Joe Subolefsky and recently shared by the Nature is Metal Instagram account. See the shocking photos in the short video clip below. Subolefsky took the pictures in North Carolina's Cattalooche Valley back in 2021. "Photographing elk again this morning," he's heard saying in the video, which he recorded right after the incident took place. "We tell people to get back all the time, and here's the reason." Subolefsky, who's currently photographing elk in Pennsylvania, tells Field & Stream that the bull had been sparring with another male just before it killed the cow. "When he got done with that fight, he walked over towards her, tried to mount her, and she just stumbled," he recalls. "She wasn't expecting it, and she wasn't very receptive. He was so charged up coming out of that fight that, and he just gored her." Subolefsky believes that one of the bull's tines punctured the cow's heart, killing her in short order with minimal suffering. "She went right over here and died," he said, panning his camera over to the collared and tagged cow elk in the grass. "Sad to see. Part of nature. Would have happened wether we were here or not." Read Next: Watch a Rutting Bull Elk Ram a Hyundai in Canada North Carolina's Cattaloochee Valley sits near the eastern edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The National Park Service reintroduced 52 elk to the area in 2001 and 2002 with help from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. Those elk were transplanted from the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area of southwestern Kentucky and northwest Tennessee. Today, the Cataloochee valley herd is more than 200 elk strong. SIMI VALLEY, Calif. No one dominated the stage or owned a singular moment at the second Republican presidential debate Wednesday. But there were plenty of disagreements, scuffles and key points as seven GOP candidates met at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. Former U.N Ambassador Nikki Haley lowered the boom on Vivek Ramaswamy and several others. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis came ready to criticize former President Donald Trump and former Vice President Mike Pence was one of a few who went after DeSantis, too. And ex-New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Pence combined to create one of the most bizarre debate moments of all time. Here are the defining moments of the Republican debate. Haley says she feels 'dumber' for listening to Ramaswamy Every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber for what you say. Thats how Haley responded to a lengthy answer from Ramaswamy after he answered a question about his appearance with Jake Paul in a video on TikTok, a popular video sharing app that most in the GOP field have criticized over its ties to China. Ramaswamy called the app "digital fentanyl" before he became the first GOP candidate to join. It wasn't the only attack Haley leveled in a feisty night, which also saw her grab hold of the spotlight several times and tangle with DeSantis and Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, among others. She criticized Scott for not accomplishing enough in a decade-plus in Washington, and she went after DeSantis over his state policy on fracking in Florida. Her line about Ramaswamy was the most cutting by far on the night. TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media assets that we could have, she added. Ramaswamy tried to de-escalate as Haley continued to go after him, saying the Republican Party would be better served if the seven candidates onstage would not attack one another. He also noted the debates location, pointing to Reagans so-called 11th Commandment: Thou shalt not speak ill of another Republican. Lets have a legitimate disagreement, he said. The answer was a departure from Ramaswamys performance at the first GOP debate in Milwaukee, where he got attention for being the most contentious candidate onstage and levied the most attacks. DeSantis goes after Trump for being MIA at the debate and on abortion DeSantis needed a big moment at his second debate, and it showed in a couple of direct hits on Donald Trump. In his first response of the night, DeSantis took a shot at President Joe Biden his happy place on the presidential campaign trail. But then, without prompting, he went out of his way to open up on Trump. You know who else is missing in action? Donald Trump. He should be on the stage tonight, DeSantis said in a moment that appeared prepared. He owes it to you to defend his record. It was a bold attempt at a breakthrough by DeSantis, who has in the past called on Trump to debate but not from the national debate stage. And DeSantis circled back to the line later in the night, saying Trump should explain his remarks in a Meet the Press interview about abortion policy, including Trumps calling DeSantis move to sign a six-week abortion ban in Florida "a terrible mistake." The former president, hes missing in action tonight. He should be here explaining his comments," DeSantis said. "I want him to look into the eyes and tell people who were fighting this fight for a long time. Even allies said DeSantis needed a big moment in California if he was to keep his bid alive. That's the context in which he joined Christie, a more regular Trump antagonist, in bashing Trump multiple times. Before the debate, a DeSantis bundler said in an interview that donors had all but lost faith in him. Its make or break for the governor. Hes listing. Hes been floundering at best since the last debate, the bundler said. If he struggles, if he has another average or bad performance, I think the narrative becomes hard-wired that hes dead and its irrecoverable. Scott takes aim at Ramaswamy over his past business dealings in China One of the earliest dust-ups Wednesday featured Scott, who made it entirely through the first debate without throwing a single punch and got less speaking time than most of his rivals. But Wednesday, he came ready to engage, attacking Ramaswamy for his past dealings in China. Scott said he appreciated Ramaswamy for playing nice onstage after he had last time suggested that his rivals were all "bought and paid for." "I thought about that for a little while, and said, you know, I cant imagine how you could say that knowing that you are just in business with the Chinese Communist Party and the same people that funded Hunter Biden millions of dollars was a partner of yours, as well," he said. Ramaswamy tried to push back but was quickly cut off. DeSantis chimed in, too, sarcastically calling to return to the issues because "everyone" already knew Ramaswamy had done business in China. The Chinese business dealings involve the expansion of Ramaswamy's company, Roivant Sciences, into the Chinese market in 2018. The company eventually wound down its operations there as the risks became apparent over time, doing so before the former biotech executive's presidential run, his campaign wrote on his website. Vivek understands the threat posed by China more deeply than nearly any other politician in America, it wrote. As for the connection to Biden's son, there are a number of layers between Hunter Biden and Ramaswamy before a connection can be made; a conservative Washington Post columnist wrote out the thread that appears to be the basis for Scott's attack. Pence goes after DeSantis twice DeSantis didn't come in for much criticism at the first debate. But Wednesday, Pence tried to go after his resume as governor implying that he didn't do enough to make sure the shooter who killed 17 students at a high school in Parkland, Florida, got the death penalty and over budgets he has signed increasing state spending. It is unconscionable that the Parkland shooter, Ron, is actually going to spend the rest of his life in bars in Florida, Pence said. Thats not justice. Nikolas Cruz received multiple life terms for the 2018 massacre. He didn't get the death penalty at the time, Florida law required unanimous verdicts for death sentences, and the Cruz jury wasn't unanimous. DeSantis, who get a chance Wednesday to respond directly to Pence, signed legislation in April lowering the death penalty threshold from unanimous to a supermajority, needing eight out of 12 jurors to hand down a death sentence. Once a defendant in a capital case is found guilty by a unanimous jury, one juror should not be able to veto a capital sentence, DeSantis said. On state spending, DeSantis first budget, signed in 2019, was $91.1 billion. His most recent budget, signed in June, was $117 billion, a large increase driven in large part by things like population growth. DeSantis, though, does also own the largest budget veto in Florida history, which he issued when he cut $3.1 billion from the states 2022 budget. Christie and Pence make it weird In the middle of an answer about education, Christie took things in an unusual direction: "When you have the president of the United States sleeping with a member of the teachers union, there is no chance that you could take the stranglehold away from the teachers union every day." The bizarre shot at first lady Jill Biden, a teacher, somehow came back around later in the debate thanks to, of all people, the usually buttoned-up Pence. "By way of full disclosure, Chris," Pence said solemnly, "you mentioned the presidents situation. My wife isnt a member of the teachers union, but Ive got to admit, Ive been sleeping with a teacher for 38 years. Full disclosure." This article was originally published on NBCNews.com A 90-year-old man is accused of sexually assaulting his acupuncture patient in North Carolina. Now, the acupuncturist has been arrested and charged with sex crimes, according to the Asheville Police Department. Officers in a Sept. 26 news release didnt list attorney information for the man, identified as Shi Ying Kuai. The victim reported seeking treatment from Dr. Kuai in August, and during a treatment session, they were sexually assaulted, officials wrote. Police said the patient was sexually assaulted at Kuais clinic in Asheville, a mountain town popular with tourists. Kuai was booked into jail, given a $100,000 bond and charged with second-degree force sex offense and sexual battery. His next court date is scheduled for mid-October, online records show. We encourage anyone who may have been a victim or has information related to a similar incident to contact the APD at (828) 252-1110, police wrote. People also can share information anonymously through the TIP2APD smartphone app or by sending the message TIP2APD to 847411, officials said. If you have experienced sexual assault and need someone to talk to, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline for support at 1-800-656-4673 or visit the hotline's online chatroom. Assistant principal accused of sex crime against student while off campus, NC cops say Delta passenger gropes 15-year-old on flight and is arrested when plane lands, feds say Key Insights Significant control over Singapore Post by individual investors implies that the general public has more power to influence management and governance-related decisions A total of 25 investors have a majority stake in the company with 46% ownership Ownership research, combined with past performance data can help provide a good understanding of opportunities in a stock To get a sense of who is truly in control of Singapore Post Limited (SGX:S08), it is important to understand the ownership structure of the business. With 54% stake, individual investors possess the maximum shares in the company. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn). Meanwhile, public companies make up 37% of the companys shareholders. In the chart below, we zoom in on the different ownership groups of Singapore Post. View our latest analysis for Singapore Post What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Singapore Post? Many institutions measure their performance against an index that approximates the local market. So they usually pay more attention to companies that are included in major indices. We can see that Singapore Post does have institutional investors; and they hold a good portion of the company's stock. This suggests some credibility amongst professional investors. But we can't rely on that fact alone since institutions make bad investments sometimes, just like everyone does. When multiple institutions own a stock, there's always a risk that they are in a 'crowded trade'. When such a trade goes wrong, multiple parties may compete to sell stock fast. This risk is higher in a company without a history of growth. You can see Singapore Post's historic earnings and revenue below, but keep in mind there's always more to the story. Singapore Post is not owned by hedge funds. Our data shows that Singapore Telecommunications Limited is the largest shareholder with 22% of shares outstanding. With 15% and 2.2% of the shares outstanding respectively, Alibaba Group Holding Limited and The Vanguard Group, Inc. are the second and third largest shareholders. Story continues 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. While studying institutional ownership for a company can add value to your research, it is also a good practice to research analyst recommendations to get a deeper understand of a stock's expected performance. While there is some analyst coverage, the company is probably not widely covered. So it could gain more attention, down the track. Insider Ownership Of Singapore Post The definition of an insider can differ slightly between different countries, but members of the board of directors always count. Management ultimately answers to the board. However, it is not uncommon for managers to be executive board members, especially if they are a founder or the CEO. 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 Singapore Post Limited insiders own under 1% of the company. We do note, however, it is possible insiders have an indirect interest through a private company or other corporate structure. It appears that the board holds about S$6.2m worth of stock. This compares to a market capitalization of S$1.1b. Many tend to prefer to see a board with bigger shareholdings. A good next step might be to take a look at this free summary of insider buying and selling. General Public Ownership The general public, who are usually individual investors, hold a substantial 54% stake in Singapore Post, suggesting it is a fairly popular stock. This level of ownership gives investors from the wider public some power to sway key policy decisions such as board composition, executive compensation, and the dividend payout ratio. Public Company Ownership Public companies currently own 37% of Singapore Post stock. 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: It's always worth thinking about the different groups who own shares in a company. But to understand Singapore Post better, we need to consider many other factors. Be aware that Singapore Post is showing 1 warning sign in our investment analysis , you should know about... If you are like me, you may want to think about whether this company will grow or shrink. Luckily, you can check this free report showing analyst forecasts for its future. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott , who for months has been sparring with New York City Mayor Eric Adams from 1,760 miles away over the busing of migrants from the Rio Grande to the Big Apple, took the feud mayor's own backyard Wednesday and said the two elected leaders are actually at odds with a common adversary. " Joe Biden really is responsible for the majority, the overwhelming majority, of the migrants here in New York City," Abbott said on cable's Fox & Friends in advance of a discussion at a conservative think tank in New York. "And if the people in New York City have a problem with all the migrants they are having to house, they need to blame Joe Biden. "The problem here is not the governor of Texas," Abbott added. "The problem we have going on is the president of the United States." The governor also said he plans to call lawmakers back into session in two weeks and will add additional immigration-related matters to the Legislature's to-do list. To date, lawmakers have allocated nearly $10 billion since 2021 to Abbott's border security initiative called Operation Lone Star. Abbott, a three-term Republican, in April 2022 began offering state-paid bus trips for migrants granted at least temporary permission to remain in the United States to destinations in cities across the nation where Democrats are in charge. According to the latest figures from Abbott's office, nearly 41,500 migrants have agreed to board the buses, and New York City has been the destination for about 15,800 of them. Adams, a Democrat, has said the influx of migrants threatens to overwhelm social services and "destroy" his city. And last week New York Gov. Gov. Kathy Hochul announced new efforts for migrants in her state who are eligible to apply for "Temporary Protected Status" that will allow them to seek work. Immigrants wait in line outside the Roosevelt Hotel, in New York City, in July 2023. The Texas governor has bused thousands of people to NYC after they crossed the Mexican border. More: Buoys aren't going anywhere at least until October, so they remain an advantage to Abbott Work authorization is the way out of the migrant crisis," Hochul said in a news release.Individuals who achieve legal work status will be able to exit the shelter system, find work opportunities and get their shot at the American Dream." The announcement by New York's Democratic governor came after the White House gave the go-ahead for some qualifying migrants from Venezuela who entered the United States by July 31 to seek protected status. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said the decision was made because of "Venezuelas increased instability and lack of safety due to the enduring humanitarian, security, political, and environmental conditions." As Abbott was speaking in New York, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas announced Wednesday that more than $12.2 million in grants will be made through the Shelter and Services Program, which helps offset cost accrued as a result of providing services to migrants. Asylum seekers walk around midtown Manhattan after being located in the Roosevelt hotel on Friday, May 19, 2023, in New York City. In a news release, Homeland Security said the announcement is in addition to the more than $290 million allocated in June and $77 million the federal agency announced in August. During his hourlong appearance before an audience assembled by the Manhattan Institute, Abbott said his bus-trip initiative has provided the rest of the nation just a small glimpse into what Texas must grapple with around the clock along the state's border with Mexico. "What is going on in New York is calm and organized compared to the real chaos of what we see on the border not every day, but every hour of every day," Abbott told the organization whose mission is to foster "entrepreneurship and fiscal responsibility" in U.S. cities. More: Eagle Pass mayor, citing migrant surge, reinstates order allowing trespass arrests at park Abbott said that in each of the past two years, an estimated 2.4 million migrants have been apprehended crossing the border without legal authorization. "Almost 5 million people apprehended coming across the border is unsustainable," Abbott said. The governor's remarks in New York come as some Democrats are expressing frustration with the Biden administration on the immigration front. During a weekend appearance at a political festival in Austin sponsored by the Texas Tribune, U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro and his twin brother, former Mayor and Housing and Urban Development Secretary Julian Castro, lamented with what they see as the administration's lackluster approach bringing about immigration reform. U.S. Border Patrol agents drop off asylum-seekers in September of 2022 at the Val Verde Border Humanitarian Coalition migrant shelter in Del Rio, Texas. Many of the migrants will later take state-funded bus rides to Washington, New York or Chicago. The Biden administration basically doesnt want to touch the issue," Julian Castro said at the event. "A lot of Democrats dont want to touch the issue." In remarks livestreamed Tuesday on Instagram, 2022 Democratic gubernatorial candidate Beto O'Rourke offered a similar observation. "As a Democrat, as somebody who lives on the border, I've been so frustrated with my own party," said O'Rourke, who represented El Paso in Congress from 2013 until 2019. "We don't always get a clear signal from Democrats about what our party stands for and what our leaders are willing to do." In his New York appearances, Abbott also addressed his controversial decision to install a 1,000-foot chain of buoys in the Rio Grande to deter border crossings near the immigration hotspot of Eagle Pass. The decision prompted a lawsuit by the U.S. Department of Justice, which names Abbott and the state of Texas as defendants. "If we win that lawsuit, which we should, we will probably have hundreds of miles of those buoys on the border," Abbott said, adding that Texas is also building barriers similar to the wall project initiated under then-President Donald Trump near the border with the permission of private property owners. The chain of buoys presently deployed measures about one-fifth of a mile and cost about $1 million. That works out to a cost of about $5 million per mile. Abbott said the effort to add "hundreds of miles" would be worth the expense. "Buoys cost one-tenth of the price of the border wall." Abbott said. "We will be able to have far more expansive barriers at one-tenth of the cost, and be more effective in deterring people from coming across the border." John C. Moritz covers Texas government and politics for the USA Today Network in Austin. Contact him at jmoritz@gannett.com and follow him on X, formerly called Twitter, @JohnnieMo. This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: In New York, Abbott says migrant busing plan should be blamed on Biden Ukraine has received its first batch of US-provided M1A1 Abrams tanks. Although an older model, the Abrams has a proven ability to pulverize Soviet-built tanks. Two former US Army officers told Insider the tank boasted strong weaponry but had its challenges. The American-made M1 Abrams tank is at last in Ukraine, and while it has its limitations, it's more than just another piece of Western weaponry. It's heavy-duty, combat-proven armor that was built with a very specific mission in mind: killing Russian tanks. It could be the top tank Ukraine has received so far in the war, two former US Army officers with direct experience on the Abrams said, and it boasts a demonstrated track record for defeating Soviet-made armor while protecting its crew of four. "It can do other things, but it's built to kill tanks," Robert Greenway, a Hudson Institute expert who was assigned to the Abrams for a time in the Army, told Insider. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Monday the tanks had arrived in time to aid Kyiv's counteroffensive, which is entering its fourth month and seeing promising progress against Russian defenses in the south. US officials told The New York Times the delivery was two platoons worth of Abrams and that the remainder of the 31 tanks promised by the Biden administration earlier this year would be provided in the coming months. But even this initial delivery could begin to make a difference, though it remains to be seen if the kind of fighting in Ukraine will allow the Abrams to do what it does best. The M1A1 Abrams saw heavy use in the Gulf War in the early 1990s and proved to be a formidable asset capable of defeating Iraq's Soviet-era tanks T-72s similar in certain respects to those the Russian army uses three decades later. The US Army has the M1A2 now, but that doesn't mean the M1A1 can't get the job done. "It's an infinitely superior system," said Greenway, who, after a few years in armor, became a Special Forces officer. "The A1 may be old in the sense that it's been in our inventory for quite some time, but it's far superior to anything that the Russians have." US Marine Corps M1A1 Abrams tanks with 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, firing during a live-fire range as part of Exercise Arrow 2019 at the Pohjankangas training area near Niinisalo, Finland, in May 2019. US Marine Corps/Lance Cpl. Scott Jenkins Ukraine has been anticipating the arrival of this US main battle tank for some time. President Joe Biden first offered in January to send the Abrams, saying Kyiv needed "to be able to counter Russia's evolving tactics and strategy on the battlefield in the very near term." In March, the White House disclosed the US was expediting the delivery by sending M1A1s instead of the newer A2s. The latter would've taken "over a year or so" to get to Ukraine, Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary, said at the time. The promise to deliver American-made Abrams tanks to Ukraine followed plans from the UK, Germany, and other European partners to provide Ukraine with Challenger and Leopard tanks. 'Not in the same league' Gian Gentile, the associate director of RAND's Arroyo Center, said there were "mostly minimal" but not insignificant differences between the Abrams and the Leopards and Challengers, but the capability gap between the Abrams and Russian tanks was considered substantial. "Even the Russian T90M is inferior to any of these three Western tanks," said Gentile, who is also a retired US Army officer with years of experience on the Abrams. "The Russian tanks are lighter and therefore more vulnerable, and their optics and fire control systems are not in the same league of an Abrams, or Leo or Challenger for that matter." American M1A1 Abrams tanks as they cross the desert during the Gulf War, Iraq, 1991. Allan Tannenbaum/Getty Images The M1 Abrams is a marquee weapon that was designed to give the US the edge over the Soviet Union in land warfare. A 1974 military evaluation of the XM1 program that eventually gave birth to the M1 Abrams said that "military planners both western and Soviet still consider the tank the key weapon in ground combat." "Therefore," it continued, "no matter what the cost, the U.S. must be able to field a tank capable of dominating and defeating the enormous threat inherent in the armor of our potential adversaries." The tank's powerful gas-turbine engine, which is sometimes compared to a jet engine, can get the 60-ton M1A1 up to 45 miles an hour. Its main gun fires accurately on the move. Its heavy armor gives it protection against antitank weapons and tank rounds. And there's an emphasis on crew survivability. Ammunition, for instance, is stored behind the turret and separated from the crew by blast doors in protected ammo racks. Soviet-designed tanks, on the other hand, store exposed ammunition in the turret, leading to a vulnerability known as the "jack-in-the-box" effect: A direct hit can set off the ammunition inside, killing the crew and catapulting the massive gun turret. The American-made tanks are also much more heavily armored than Russian tanks. During the Gulf War, US Army assessments noted multiple examples of enemy fire bouncing off the tanks, which were able to take multiple hits while still dealing damage. The armor, often bolstered by explosive reactive armor, comes at a price. The Abrams is exceptionally heavy compared with a Russian tank that weighs about 48 tons. "But all that weight does give a good deal of protection for the crew," Gentile said. A pair of American soldiers standing in the turret of an M1A1 Abrams tank during the Gulf War as oil wells burn in the distance, in Kuwait, March 1991. Allan Tannenbaum/Getty Images In the Gulf War, the M1A1 Abrams which, again, was designed during the Cold War with Soviet armor in mind quickly earned a reputation for both its defensive and offensive presence on the battlefield, and crews praised the reliability, giving positive reviews of the 120 mm L/44 M256 smoothbore main gun and fire-control system. "The Abrams was built, A1 and A2 alike, knowing we had to kill many more Russian tanks. We were never going to produce as many tanks as the Russians. We were just going to produce one that was able to take out multiple Russian tanks and survive the process," Greenway said. Testimonies from the Gulf War disclosed that by the end of that conflict, only nine M1A1s were lost none the result of enemy action. Two were intentionally sabotaged to prevent enemy capture, and the other seven were damaged by friendly fire, a problem that arose because the tanks could acquire targets at great distances, making it difficult for armor crews adapting to that capability in combat to distinguish between friend and foe. Used properly, though, that extended reach is as critical as the Abrams' other capabilities. "There is nothing on really any other main battle tank, certainly not Russian main battle tanks, that presents a challenge for the Abrams as it is armed," Greenway said. Another former Army armor officer previously told Insider that during the Gulf War, the Abrams quickly evaded enemy action while scanning for and attacking targets. And when it did attack, it devastated, with the bulk of the tank's killing power coming from depleted-uranium rounds, which both the US and UK have said they are sending to Ukraine. Depleted-uranium penetrator rounds are highly effective at piercing enemy armor because the rod sharpens on impact. The metal fragments may also ignite, adding to the potential for a catastrophic kill, especially of a tank with exposed ammunition. US Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Tank Battalion, 1st Marine Division, fire an M1A1 Abrams tank main cannon while conducting live-fire training during exercise Native Fury 20 in the United Arab Emirates, March 19, 2020. US Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Brendan Mullin While the Abrams is an unquestionably tough and powerful main battle tank, it's not unstoppable. It's potentially vulnerable to some of the same threats that have knocked out some of Ukraine's new Leopards and Challengers in recent months, such as antitank mines, missiles, artillery, and drones. 'There are limits' Not all areas of the tank are protected equally, and there's always a possibility that something will get through. Drones equipped with explosives, antitank rocket-propelled grenades, and antitank mines, sometimes stacked on top of one another for greater destructive potential, have been a pervasive and pernicious problem for the Ukrainian counteroffensive. "It's designed to resist those," Greenway said of these particular threats, "but there are limits, and so, like all armored vehicles, mines can be, if not cleared, problematic. And the Abrams is no exception." But he added of the heavy armor on the Abrams that "as tanks go, it is as good a protection as can be provided." US M1A1 Abrams tanks needed for training the Armed Forces of Ukraine arrive by rail at Grafenwoehr, Germany, May 14, 2023. US Air National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Tylon Chapman The biggest challenge for the Ukrainians, though, will probably be the extensive logistics support it needs, particularly maintenance. The Abrams uses a gas-turbine engine, the Honeywell AGT1500, that guzzles much more fuel than a diesel engine and is difficult to maintain. "The real risk is going to be maintaining operational readiness because it's such a complex system that requires significant logistics strain," Greenway said. "It is a challenge for us. It is definitely going to be a challenge for them." In order to keep the Abrams running and in the fight, the US and Ukraine will have to maintain regular cooperation to provide additional parts and support for the tanks. Last week, Douglas R. Bush, the assistant secretary of the Army for acquisition, logistics, and technology, said Ukraine was getting "a lot more spare parts" with the tanks. "I think since we had a little more time for this one, we've built a much more fulsome sustainment structure to hand over to the Ukrainians and been able to do more training on sustaining the vehicle with the Ukrainians. It's a lot of stuff," Bush said, explaining the tank could be maintained by tele-maintenance but that this "is a whole 'nother level of difficulty" compared with US-provided armored vehicles such Bradleys. But even with all of the potential difficulties, the M1 Abrams offers Ukraine a tremendous boost in capability, providing mobility, firepower, and a certain shock factor. "The biggest challenge is going to be maintenance more than anything else. It's a very complicated system like all of our sophisticated weapons platforms, and it is maintenance intensive," Greenway said. "But if you take care of it, it is easily going to make a difference on the battlefield." Read the original article on Business Insider A customer angry about his service from a Florida auto repair shop targeted and fatally shot its owner, then was also fatally shot, police say. Eugene Frank Becker, 78, walked into Stouts Auto in Largo on Sept. 27 and went up to the front desk to ask to speak to the owner, according to a Sept. 28 news release from the Largo Police Department. Behind the desk was Jodie Stout, 52, who told Becker he was the owner, police said. Becker pulled out a firearm and started shooting in Stouts direction, police said, then Stout grabbed his own weapon and began firing back. They both fired multiple rounds and were each hit in the office area of the shop, police said. Both men died from their injuries, according to the release. Becker was identified as a customer of the auto shop in 2021, police said. He went to the shop that year and received service that he thought was inadequate, and he believed he was overcharged for the work, according to the release. Becker did not approach Stout in the two years after the service was completed, police said. Then, on Sept. 18, Becker was in a wreck in Pinellas Park that totaled his vehicle and put him in the hospital, according to the release. In the days that followed, Becker became angrier, frustrated and depressed, a family member told police. He then used a rental car to drive to the auto shop before the targeted attack, according to the release. Based on the totality of the circumstances, it appears as though Becker responded to Stouts Automotive with the intent to shoot the victim in retaliation for the perceived wrong from 2021, police said. Largo is about 20 miles west of Tampa. Grocery store worker sent bomb threat to co-workers, TX cops say. I hope you all die Grocery store employee fatally shot while petting customers dog, Texas cops say DoorDash driver attacks manager in Wingstop kitchen when food wasnt ready, TX cops say Popeyes cashier steals customers credit card and goes shopping, Texas cops say A key arrest was made Wednesday in the case of Crystal Rogers, a 35-year-old Bardstown mother of five whose disappearance has remained unsolved since she vanished in 2015. Rogers is presumed dead, and her boyfriend, Brooks Houck, 41, who has long been named the main suspect in the case was arrested following a Sept. 20 grand jury indictment. The disappearance of Rogers has gained widespread attention, but isnt the only one in Central Kentucky or even in the Bardstown area to remain unsolved years later. Heres a look at a few other cold cases in the region. Other cold cases in Bardstown, KY Rogers disappearance and presumed death is not the only cold case in Nelson County, not even within the last decade. In November of 2016, more than a year after Rogers vanished, her father, 54-year-old Tommy Ballard, was fatally shot in the chest when he was out hunting with his grandson. Tommy Ballard Prior to the killing, Ballard was leading and coordinating the local search for his daughter, creating a community group called Team Crystal. Tommy Ballards father, Till Ballard, believes the two deaths are connected, he recently told the Herald-Leader. Tommy wasnt going to stop searching for his daughter, Till Ballard told the Herald-Leader earlier this month. Somebody had to stop him. Another unsolved case in Bardstown dates to May 2013, when police officer Jason Ellis was killed in what has been described as an ambush. Investigators have said Ellis stopped his vehicle at an exit along the Bluegrass Parkway to remove debris from the roadway when he was fatally shot and killed by an assailant wielding a shotgun. Bardstown police officer Jason Ellis, 33, was shot multiple times in May 2013 when he got out of his cruiser to pick up tree limbs on an exit ramp of the Blue Grass Parkway. Ellis, who was 33, left behind a wife and two children. The FBI still advertises a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the slaying. Almost a year later, on April 21, 2014, Bardstown Elementary School teacher Kathy Netherland, 48, and her 16-year-old daughter Samantha were killed and found at their home the next morning. Samantha and Kathy Netherland Though investigators obtained surveillance footage of a black car believed to be driven by the suspect in the brutal double homicide, the lead has never amounted to an arrest. Kentucky State Police representatives told WLKY in April, on the ninth anniversary of the tragedy, investigators were still working to solve the crime. The Herald-Leader has reached out to the Nelson County Sheriffs Office for comment about the Ellis and Netherland cases and whether theres an update for either of the investigations. Cold cases in Lexington, KY There are several unsolved homicides in the Lexington area, as well. The city of Lexington lists three such cases on its website, including the deaths of Walter Ago, Willie Bishop and Elvin Wilkerson, all of whom have been dead since the 1970s, though their killings remain unsolved. The Herald-Leader has reached out to the Lexington Police Department for more information about these cases. Whats been called Lexingtons most notorious cold case is the killing of Betty Gail Brown. On the morning of Oct. 27, 1961, the 19-year-old Transylvania University student was found strangled with her own bra in the front seat of her car, which was parked in front of the Old Morrison Building on the universitys campus. Betty Gail Brown, then a Lafayette High School student, during initiation of new National Honor Society members in November 1959. Police files say Brown left nearby Forrer Hall at about midnight and was dead just an hour later. Her body was found at 3 a.m. by a campus police officer. Her purse was untouched, though her keys had been slung into the back seat of her car. In 1965, a man named Alex Arnold confessed to the crime, though later recanted his confession when the case went to trial, according to a previous Herald-Leader report. The ultimately ended in a hung jury and was declared a mistrial. Arnold was never tried again, and the case was marked cleared by arrest, but the publics questions about the killing lingered. Explored in a book by Robert Lawson, Browns death remains one of the most famous cold cases in Kentucky. This story may be updated. Do you have a question about crime in Kentucky for our service journalism team? Wed like to hear from you. Fill out our Know Your Kentucky form or email ask@herald-leader.com. A renowned attorney and the parents of a recent slain Black man are calling for federal civil rights charges in the death of Ronald Greene. Greene's family, joined by civil rights attorney Ben Crump and the parents of Tyre Nichols, called for the U.S. Justice Department, on the steps of the Louisiana State Capitol in Baton Rouge, to charge the white officers who fatally assaulted Greene just as they charged the Black officers who fatally injured Nichols in Memphis, Tennessee on Jan. 7, 2023. "We declare that Tyre Nichols' tragic killing and the aftermath should be the blueprint going forward in America," Crump said. "Where you saw in 20 days, those five Black officers who brutally killed Tyre Nichols on video were terminated, charged and arrested for murder because when you have evidence of a crime on video, even Ray Charles can see what happen. It should not take an exhaustive investigation to get some simple justice. Nothing extraordinary just simple justice. However, we know that it was drastically different with Ronald Greene and we're here to ask America, 'Why is that?'." Nichols was driving home in his neighborhood in southeast Memphis on Jan. 7 when he was pulled over for what the police initially said was reckless driving. The stop escalated into a violent confrontation where Nichols was beaten for roughly three minutes and later hospitalized in critical condition. He died three days later. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump called for the U.S. Department of Justice to file federal civil rights charges against the five white officers involved in the killing of Ronald Greene. The five former Memphis officers, all Black, are currently facing four federal counts: one count for depriving Nichols of his right to be "free from the use of unreasonable force by a police officer," one count of deliberate indifference to Nichols' medical needs and a failure to render aide, one count of tampering with evidence in an effort to cover up their crimes, and one count of intentionally omitting material information and providing false and misleading information. "I'm here with Mona [Hardin] today because right now we're in this new fraternity where our sons were brutally beaten by police officers that were supposed to protect and serve," RowVaughn Wells, mother of Nichols, said. "As Ben mentioned, Memphis has set the blueprint for how things should be done. As he said, those five Black officers were charged, terminated and all of this done in 20 days. Now we want to know why... the same thing happened to Ronald Greene and why has those police officers have not been charged. We just don't understand how one case can so be clear and then the other case is the same but nothing is happening. It just don't make sense. What's the difference? They were five Black officers and these were five white officers, so it that the difference?" Mona Hardin, Greene's mother, said she was happy that Nichols' family got justice for his killing. However, after three-and-a-half years, the officers in her son's killing were "weakly" indicted and justice has yet to be served. Alana Wilson, Greene's sister, called for President Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris to implore the Department of Justice to file proper charges the five officers in the killing of her brother. Tamika Mallory, a nationally recognized civil rights activist and community organizer, said since 2019 the last time she stood with Greene's family on the steps of the state capitol to call for accountability his killing the country underwent a pandemic and witnessed the deaths of George Floyd, Amaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor, some of which have seen forms of justice. "It was because of our work, because we didn't back down and we continue to fight for Breonna Taylor that we have those federal charges but still no convictions," Mallory said. "But also since 2019, Tyre Nichols happened. I joined Sister Alana [Wilson] in saying, 'There is a state of emergency in this nation'. In fact, I wrote a book about it. The state of emergency that exists in this nation where Black people are dying and what is happening here in the state of Louisiana and this city, is that they are playing the waiting game. Hoping that we will go away and people will not show up from far to stand with this family. That people will not continue and the family will get too tired and instead, the movement is growing because while they are not doing by Ronald Greene here; unfortunately, other people are dying in other places around this nation. Being killed and so the family continues to grow not because of us. It is growing because of them. Because of the corruption and the fact that they've determined that Black lives do not matter." Follow Ian Robinson on Twitter @_irobinson and on Facebook at https://bit.ly/3vln0w1. Support local journalism by subscribing at https://cm.thenewsstar.com/specialoffer. This article originally appeared on Monroe News-Star: Attorney, parents of Tyre Nichols call for charges in Greene killing Local law enforcement agencies are looking for a man they describe as homeless who is accused of attempted murder and has been on the run for two weeks. Attalla authorities say Marcus Silvey, 31, of Gadsden, shot an acquaintance on the railroad tracks between Cleveland Avenue and Fifth Avenue about 1 a.m. on Sept. 18. The victim was shot in the abdomen and staggered to a nearby parking lot where he collapsed, said Chief Investigator Doug Jordan. Marcus Silvey The 29-year-old Attalla man was taken to the hospital where he had several life-saving surgeries, Jordan said. The victim told police he didnt know why Silvey allegedly harmed him, but that he was very intoxicated when it happened. Police spotted Silvey on Sept. 20 near the area where the shooting took place, but he ran into the woods and they lost him after a foot chase. Jordan said its unclear if Silvey is still armed, but authorities are asking for the publics help in apprehending him. Anyone with any information is asked to call the Attalla Police Department at 256-538-7837. This article originally appeared on The Gadsden Times: Authorities seek suspect in Attalla shooting For the first time in history, President Joe Biden has formally designated a week to honor educational institutions that serve Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander students particularly those from low-income, first-generation and underrepresented backgrounds. Biden issued a proclamation making Sept. 25 through Oct. 1 Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions Week, with members of his administration visiting one of the institutions, Queens College, City University of New York, on Tuesday to kick off the celebratory week. These colleges and universities make up almost half of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander undergraduate enrollment, the proclamation noted. Some of the schools include the University of California, Irvine; the University of San Francisco; and the University of Massachusetts Boston. For so many, higher education is a ticket to a better life, Biden wrote in the proclamation. But while talent, creativity, and determination are found in people all across this country, not everyone has an equal shot at higher education. For more from NBC Asian America, sign up for our weekly newsletter. Schools that are granted the classification receive federal funding. And so far, more than five dozen institutions have received funds as a result, according to New York Universitys MSI Data Project. Though they make up just over 5% of all colleges and universities, they award 40% of the bachelors degrees and half of the associate degrees attained by all Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander college students. Mike Hoa Nguyen, assistant professor of education at New York Universitys Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, explained that the funds are generally used to increase enrollment; expand Asian American studies, research and other academic programs; and further diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. Schools can qualify to be part of the Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions Program if they have an enrollment that is at least 10% Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander. In addition, at least half of their students must receive need-based assistance or have significant numbers of students who receive federal Pell Grants, typically given to undergraduates who display exceptional financial need, among other requirements. In contrast to historically Black colleges and universities, institutions that fall under this designation were not initially created with the purpose of targeting communities of color; rather, they were founded as predominantly white institutions. But shifting demographics and an uptick in Asian American enrollment led many schools to qualify and seek out the program, and they now serve an increasingly diverse population. Legislators, including members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, also spoke out in support of the institutions to commemorate the week. Rep. Judy Chu, chair of CAPAC, called the colleges and universities critical in increasing access to higher education for underrepresented Asian American communities. I know firsthand as a former community college educator how a quality secondary education can unlock the full potential of students, Chu, D-Calif., said. At the same time, however, I also recognize that so many students of color and lower-income students face enormous educational barriers to pursuing their dreams. Nguyen explained that the creation of the school designation in 2007 was the result of work from activists and scholars, who sought to address the fallacy of the model minority myth. Nguyen said that groups, including the nonprofit Southeast Asia Resource Action Center, or SEARAC, helped raise awareness around the reality of the large educational disparities among Asian Americans. Southeast Asian groups, for example, have lower levels of educational attainment, with American Community Survey data from 2006-2008 around when the designation was implemented showing that roughly two-thirds of Cambodian, Laotian and Hmong Americans had not attended college, SEARAC has noted. It is a way for schools to access funds in order to increase college student access. And then once the students are enrolled in those schools, to ensure that theyre successful that means that they graduate from college, Nguyen said. It also means that they have a sense of belonging on campus, they feel that their identities are visible on those college campuses. Since the program has been implemented, Nguyen said that the community has seen tangible improvements in educational attainment and school experiences. And research shows that the program has been associated with a host of other social benefits. We see students have a greater sense of belonging and they feel like they see themselves on campus and in the curriculum because of these grants, Nguyen said. All sorts of measures, quantitative and qualitative, show the benefits are pretty widespread. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Construction has begun at the intersections of 36th Lane and U.S. Highway 50 and 36th Lane and U.S. 50 Business to improve pedestrian and motorist safety at the two east Pueblo intersections. The first phase of construction is taking place on U.S. 50 Business from 33rd Lane to just past 39th Lane, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation. The work will include: Moving the stop line on 36th Lane to the U.S. 50 Business travel lanes, which will reduce the crossing distance for northbound and southbound vehicles turning left. Installing raised islands with a pedestrian refuge area, allowing the stop line to be moved up and improving sight distances when crossing the intersection. Construction crews work at the intersection of U.S. Highway 50 Business and 36th Lane on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. Phase two of the project is around the U.S. 50 and 36th Lane intersection, with construction between Baxter Road and 39th Lane. Safety improvements at that intersection will include: Converting the right through lane of eastbound U.S. 50 into a right-turn-only lane a half-mile west of the 36th Lane intersection. Installing an intersection "conflict warning system" that recognizes approaching traffic and illuminates warning signs, alerting motorists of vehicles approaching the intersection on both Highway 50 and 36th Lane. Moving the stop line on 36th Lane up to the eastbound lane of U.S. 50 so that the right turn lane will not impact the view of motorists attempting to cross the intersection. CDOT says this also will reduce the crossing distance for northbound left-turning vehicles. Installing raised islands, allowing the stop line to be moved up, and improving the sight distance when crossing the intersection. "This type of safety improvement project is critical for semi-rural intersections that experience a high volume of traffic on a daily basis, said CDOT Regional Transportation Director Shane Ferguson in a news release. Our goal is to make the necessary upgrades to improve safety for traffic and pedestrians, especially with the number of schools in the area, while maintaining traffic flow along both highways. The project is scheduled for completion in December. Work hours are between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday to Friday, with nighttime work "when necessary," according to the release. Intermittent lane closures on U.S. 50, U.S. 50 Business, and 36th Lane will occur over the duration of the project, and construction trucks will be entering and exiting the zone. Past coverage of this topic: Family, community remembers children killed in February car crash Pueblo family whose loved ones were killed continues to campaign for stoplight A roadside memorial for Trenton, Ada and Mckenzie Frazier is placed at the intersection of U.S. Highway 50 and 36th Lane in Pueblo. The CDOT project is not without its detractors. At least one local family does not believe the planned safety improvements are sufficient. Chris Roberts, father of Mckenzie Frazier a 6-year-old girl who was killed along with her brother, 13-year-old Trenton Frazier, and great-grandmother, 86-year-old Ada Frazier, in a fatal collision at 36th and U.S. 50 on Feb. 15, 2022 told the Chieftain he was appealing to the governor's office to get a stoplight installed at the intersection. Roberts stated he has also appealed to other politicians, including the local Democratic Party chair, to raise the issue with Colorado Gov. Jared Polis. The Frazier family has been campaigning for a stoplight since the deadly accident. Roberts has repeatedly expressed his belief that CDOT's new safety measures would only make a dangerous intersection more dangerous, especially with many young drivers from three nearby school zones. "With the number of high school teenage drivers around that intersection, they'll either get scared of driving through that intersection or they'll try to beat it," Roberts told the Chieftain Wednesday, referring to the conflict warning system. "There needs to be a stoplight out there," he said. "The solution that they're proposing, it won't make things better it may make them worse." Others are reading: Pueblo City Council votes against mayor, approves settlement with church over RV code Questions, comments, or story tips? Contact Justin at jreutterma@gannett.com. Follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter,@jayreutter1. Support local news, subscribe to The Pueblo Chieftain at subscribe.chieftain.com. This article originally appeared on The Pueblo Chieftain: CDOT begins construction on dangerous U.S. 50 intersections in Pueblo This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle. Here's what you can do as Health Canada reports an increase in COVID-19 cases this fall. (Getty) With fall season in full swing, Health Canada is reporting an increase in COVID-19 cases across the country. In its latest update on Sept. 26, Health Canada said the national percentage of positive cases has been steadily increasing since early July, with current weekly percent positivity at 16.6 per cent. The number of hospitalizations has also increased nationally from Sept. 13 to 19. While the country no longer has testing or masking mandates in place like it used to, Yahoo Canada heard from an infectious diseases specialist there are still protocols Canadians should follow to protect themselves and others from the virus. Read on for everything you need to know. Should people get the new COVID-19 vaccine? On Sept. 12, Health Canada approved an updated vaccine from Moderna that targets a SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariant. The federal agency maintains vaccination is still "one of the most effective ways to protect ourselves against COVID-19." Yahoo Canada reported the new jab was "greenlit for Canadians aged six months and above as the world enters its fourth COVID-19 pandemic autumn, and health officials sound the alarm on the rise of new variants including XBB 1.5, which has become prevalent in 2023." Dr. Donald Vinh, an infectious diseases specialist at McGill University Health Centre, explained the new vaccine formula "produces antibodies that neutralize a lot of variants within the XBB lineage." "But it won't protect people from necessarily getting infected," he added. Health Canada approved an updated vaccine that targets a dominant subvariant. (Getty) However, it might prevent severe illness and hospitalization. "That is what we anticipate will be the utility of the current booster dose," Vinh said. According to him, people who are at increased risk of getting severe illness from COVID-19 should "definitely" get the new shot. This includes the elderly, the immunocompromised and pregnant people. "We also think that people who live in congregate settings like in long-term care homes, foster care homes, homeless people in shelters, or inmates who are incarcerated definitely should get it," said Vinh. Current federal recommendations include a dose of the new formulation of the vaccine for people in the authorized age groups if it's been at least six months since receiving their last dose. Roll-out is expected to begin in October. But, Vinh added the current federal recommendations are broad, and it's very possible that the provinces may tailor the recommendations to suit their needs," said Vinh. Mask or no mask? Masking is one of the key measures recommended by the Public Health Agency of Canada. (Getty) Masking is one of the key measures recommended by the Public Health Agency of Canada, said Vinh. "The mask does two things: it prevents you from inhaling the virus and it prevents you from spreading it," he explained. If someone is in a crowded area, Vinh said they should consider putting on a mask this fall. That's especially true if they know a space is not well ventilated or if they're in an area where there's sick people, like a hospital. The mask does two things: it prevents you from inhaling the virus and it prevents you from spreading it.Dr. Donald Vinh "The other time to wear a mask is also if you've recovered from COVID," the doctor said. He explained even if a person who has COVID recovers in two days, they may still be contagious. "You are contagious until your rapid tests turn negative and therefore you should wear a mask, especially if you're going to be around other people." Is physical distancing still a thing? Social distancing is still a recommended measure to curb the spread of COVID-19 in Canada. (Getty) "Social distancing has always been a thing," according to Vinh. "That's just a general rule because, let's face it, I don't want somebody in my space COVID or not." He said people in Canada don't necessarily live in overcrowded areas like some do it New York or Tokyo, for example, so it can be much easier to maintain a recommended two-metre distance. According to the government, social distancing is "proven to be one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of illness during an outbreak." The government also recommended, along with social distancing, that people wash their hands for at least 20 seconds and avoid touching their face. "Cough or sneeze into the bend of your arm," the website pointed out. "(And) avoid touching surfaces people touch often." Should people self-isolate if they test positive or have symptoms? At-home rapid tests to detect COVID-19 are still around. (Getty) Vinh recommends a person with symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue and headache, should isolate at home. However, it is not mandatory. "Even if you just have symptoms in general that aren't COVID-related, you should be isolating because there's a strong possibility that you're contagious," said Vinh. Isolation is recommended until the symptoms go away, he added. He said it's not realistic for people to isolate themselves for 10 days or more, he recommends to stay home and recuperate for a at least three days. "Most of the time it's somewhere around five to seven days, depending on the individual person, how quickly they recuperate, and of course if they have any underlying medical conditions," Vinh explained. Public Health continues to recommend staying at home when experiencing symptoms of illness, and added at-home rapid tests for COVID-19 are still a good way to "identify quickly" whether it's the virus. In short, all measures that were once mandatory or strongly recommended vaccination, masking, isolation and rapid-testing are still considered to be best practices. Let us know what you think by commenting below and tweeting @YahooStyleCA! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. A survivor of childhood sexual abuse has directly called out Attorney General Daniel Cameron for his historically staunch support of the state abortion bans lack of exceptions for rape and incest. A new ad from the re-election campaign of Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear is the latest in a string of attacks on the GOP nominee for his stances on reproductive health care. The Wednesday ad comes on the heels of Cameron publicly softening his stance on exceptions, Planned Parenthood releasing ads against him and his position on birth control being nationally scrutinized. I was raped by my stepfather after years of sexual abuse, Hadley, a young woman from Owensboro, said directly to the camera in the 30-second ad. I was 12. Anyone who believes there should be no exceptions for rape and incest could never understand what its like to stand in my shoes, Hadley said in the new commercial. This is to you, Daniel Cameron: to tell a 12-year-old girl she must have the baby of her stepfather, who raped her, is unthinkable. Im speaking out because women and girls need to have options. Daniel Cameron would give us none. Hadley has been a vocal critic of Kentuckys abortion ban since the Dobbs decision last year and has previously spoken out about her abuse. Her stepfather is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for multiple sexual offenses, according to the Kentucky Online Offender Lookup. He has two convictions from Henderson County for sodomy and rape, and four from Daviess County for sodomy, sexual abuse and two counts of rape. He is eligible for parole starting in 2032, and according to court records, must register as a sex offender upon release. The ad is the second from Beshear hammering Cameron for his defense of Kentuckys abortion bans and their lack of rape and incest exceptions, both in his capacity as the states highest law enforcement official and on the campaign trail. Cameron publicly back-peddled on that position Monday. On a morning radio show, Cameron said, theres no question that, if elected governor, he would sign a law adding rape and incest exceptions to the current law. His statement on the Tony & Dwight show on NewsRadio 840 WHAS is a veer from his past public position explicitly supporting the states ban as-is and his defense of the current exception to save the life of a pregnant person as being adequate. Cameron, in responding to the ad, said Beshear is the extremist in this race. Andy Beshear is running the most despicable campaign in Kentucky history, Cameron said in a video statement released Wednesday morning. He lectures us on partisanship and unity, then runs disgusting, false attacks. I have said if the legislature were to bring me a bill with exceptions, I would sign it. Democrats, including the Beshear campaign, have descended on Cameron in the last two days to, as they characterize, call his bluff for flip-flopping. The Kentucky Democratic Party posted footage from a primary candidate debate this spring hosted by Spectrum News. Anchor Mario Anderson asks Cameron whether he would support any exceptions to Kentuckys current abortion law, and if so, what are they? Cameron said, Well, I support the current law, and of course, Mario, you know Ive been defending the Human Life Protection Act, and Im proud that, since August of last year, the abortion facilities have been closed in Kentucky. The Human Life Protection Act is Kentuckys trigger law, which bans abortion except in circumstances where its needed to save the life of a pregnant person. The ban does not include exceptions for rape, incest, or fetal abnormalities that are incompatible with life. On Tuesday, the KDP posted more footage of Cameron at a news conference hours after Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022 and Kentuckys abortion bans became enforceable for the first time. Abortion is, for all intents and purposes, over here in the commonwealth, Cameron said. There is no rape and incest exception. Another clip shows Cameron at a different primary candidate forum earlier this year being asked whether he supports those changes to the current law. Cameron said, Im not going to waver in my position on this, and were going to continue to defend the law as is. Cameron also confirmed his past position against rape and incest exceptions in a Kentucky Right to Life questionnaire. It prompts a yes or no answer to the following question: Do you believe that a child conceived as a result of sexual assault should be protected by the same laws protecting the lives of children conceived naturally? Cameron scored 100%, earning him the groups endorsement for being an unwavering defender of Kentuckys abortion laws. Tamarra Wieder, Kentucky state director for Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates, called Cameron a liar for flip-flopping. Either he lied about his position in order to secure a right-wing fringe groups endorsement, or hes lying to voters now, Wieder said. Kentuckys abortion ban, which Cameron unapologetically defended in court, denies sexual assault survivors, like Hadley, the freedom to decide what is best for their bodies. And like Hadley, Kentuckians are fed up. In response to the Beshear campaigns new ad Wednesday morning, former Democratic State Auditor Adam Edelen tweeted, This will be remembered as the knock out punch. Theres always a reckoning for extremism. Something that never happens Though Cameron has remained steady in his defense of the trigger law as-is, up until his course correction two days ago, he shot back at Beshears latest ad by calling the governor an extremist for vetoing a born-alive bill. He supports abortion through the ninth month, Cameron said a reiteration of a common conservative misnomer that Democrats support abortion up to the moment of birth. Even under Roe, elective abortion was never legal up to the moment of birth but viability. Late-term abortions, which are rare and typically take place in the third trimester, are provided largely in cases of severe medical emergencies. In 2020 in Kentucky, for example, only 1 abortion out of 4,104, total, was provided after 22 weeks gestation well under the 40-week mark of a typical pregnancy. Cameron buttressed his characterization of Beshear as an abortion extremist by citing his veto of Senate Bill 9 in 2020, referred to as the born-alive bill. It wouldve codified into law what is already the standard of care agreed on in the medical community: if an abortion doesnt successfully terminate a pregnancy and a fetus is born alive, doctors must provide life-saving care. Supporters of the bill at the time said there were no documented cases of such an event happening in Kentucky. What Cameron doesnt clarify is that Republicans filed near-identical legislation the following year, also Senate Bill 9, and Beshear allowed it to pass into law without his signature. The governor defended his decision not to sign the bill, implying it was a solution in search of a problem because, as he told WFPL at the time, its something that never happens. An issue of safety and health Camerons reversal on Monday is significant, not only because it contradicts what he has said on the campaign trail and in court when defending the constitutionality of Kentuckys abortion ban. But its a split with the General Assembly, whose Republican supermajority has refused more than once to codify into law rape and incest exceptions, including in the year since abortion became illegal. In 2022, Democrats filed two amendments to add rape and incest exceptions to House Bill 3, an omnibus bill that critics said effectively ended abortion access in Kentucky, though Roe hadnt yet been overturned. Both failed. Earlier this year, GOP Whip Jason Nemes, R-Louisville, filed a bill to add rape, incest and fetal abnormality exceptions to the trigger law, but it never received a committee hearing. Soon after abortion was criminalized in Kentucky, the states two remaining outpatient abortion clinics sued the state. They argued the trigger law and six-week ban outlawing abortion after fetal cardiac activity is detected were unconstitutional and caused irreparable harm to women forced to remain pregnant against their will. In Kentuckys case, that included survivors of rape and incest. Cameron pushed back on that assertion in court filings, arguing that neither clinic proved pregnant patients would suffer irreparable harm for being forced to remain pregnant. Plaintiffs have simply not shown that any irreparable harm will befall them without temporary injunctive relief, Cameron said in a June 2022 filing. Rather, irreparable harm would befall lives of unborn children were the court to prevent him from enforcing those laws, his office wrote. Various elected officials have called out the laws lack of rape and incest exceptions as problematic, including Kentucky Supreme Court Justice Michelle Keller during oral arguments in the case last November. This court sees 10- and 11-year-olds who are impregnated by rape and incest, Keller told Solicitor General Matthew Kuhn. Thats not just an issue of preserving life, thats an issue of safety and health. In most cases, its just not safe or healthy for a 10-year-old child to carry a child to term. Kuhn admitted that the law did not offer protections for those survivors. I dont want anything that I say from this podium to take away from the criminality or involuntariness of how terrible that is, he said. But, youre right that the trigger law does not have an exception in those tragic circumstances. Key Insights Institutions' substantial holdings in AMMB Holdings Berhad implies that they have significant influence over the company's share price The top 4 shareholders own 51% of the company Ownership research along with analyst forecasts data help provide a good understanding of opportunities in a stock Every investor in AMMB Holdings Berhad (KLSE:AMBANK) should be aware of the most powerful shareholder groups. The group holding the most number of shares in the company, around 33% to be precise, is institutions. In other words, the group stands to gain the most (or lose the most) from their investment into the company. Given the vast amount of money and research capacities at their disposal, institutional ownership tends to carry a lot of weight, especially with individual investors. Therefore, a good portion of institutional money invested in the company is usually a huge vote of confidence on its future. In the chart below, we zoom in on the different ownership groups of AMMB Holdings Berhad. See our latest analysis for AMMB Holdings Berhad What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About AMMB Holdings Berhad? Many institutions measure their performance against an index that approximates the local market. So they usually pay more attention to companies that are included in major indices. As you can see, institutional investors have a fair amount of stake in AMMB Holdings Berhad. This implies the analysts working for those institutions have looked at the stock and they like it. But just like anyone else, they could be wrong. 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 AMMB Holdings Berhad's historic earnings and revenue below, but keep in mind there's always more to the story. We note that hedge funds don't have a meaningful investment in AMMB Holdings Berhad. ANZ Group Holdings Limited is currently the company's largest shareholder with 22% of shares outstanding. With 12% and 10% of the shares outstanding respectively, Clear Goal Sdn Bhd and Employees Provident Fund of Malaysia are the second and third largest shareholders. Story continues To make our study more interesting, we found that the top 4 shareholders control more than half of the company which implies that this group has considerable sway over the company's decision-making. While it makes sense to study institutional ownership data for a company, it also makes sense to study analyst sentiments to know which way the wind is blowing. Quite a few analysts cover the stock, so you could look into forecast growth quite easily. Insider Ownership Of AMMB Holdings Berhad The definition of an insider can differ slightly between different countries, but members of the board of directors always count. Company management run the business, but the CEO will answer to the board, even if he or she is a member of it. 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. We note our data does not show any board members holding shares, personally. It is unusual not to have at least some personal holdings by board members, so our data might be flawed. A good next step would be to check how much the CEO is paid. General Public Ownership The general public, who are usually individual investors, hold a 24% stake in AMMB Holdings Berhad. This size of ownership, while considerable, may not be enough to change company policy if the decision is not in sync with other large shareholders. Private Company Ownership It seems that Private Companies own 14%, of the AMMB Holdings Berhad stock. It might be worth looking deeper into this. If related parties, such as insiders, have an interest in one of these private companies, that should be disclosed in the annual report. Private companies may also have a strategic interest in the company. Public Company Ownership We can see that public companies hold 22% of the AMMB Holdings Berhad shares on issue. We can't be certain but it is quite possible this is a strategic stake. The businesses may be similar, or work together. Next Steps: It's always worth thinking about the different groups who own shares in a company. But to understand AMMB Holdings Berhad better, we need to consider many other factors. Take risks for example - AMMB Holdings Berhad has 1 warning sign we think you should be aware of. Ultimately the future is most important. You can access this free report on analyst forecasts for the company. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Originally appeared on E! Online Alex Murdaugh's team is speaking out against a court official who appeared in a Netflix series about his murder case. Six months after Murdaugh received two life-in-prison sentences for murdering his wife Maggie and son Paul, his attorney called out Colleton County clerk of court Rebecca Hill over allegations she made in season two of Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal, which dropped on Netflix Sept. 20. "I had a feeling from our time together with the jury out at Moselle that it was not going to take our jury long to make the decision in this case," Hill said in the series. "It's just called that women's intuition." Hillwho released the book Behind the Doors of Justice: The Murdaugh Murders in July based on her experience in the courtroomfurther alleged that she believes Murdaugh, who had been a prominent South Carolina lawyer, received help after killing his wife and son on their Moselle estate in South Carolina in 2021. All the Bombshells From Netflix's Murdaugh Murders More from E! Online "I do think Alex pulled the trigger, and then I think he had help with cleaning up everything that needed cleaning up," Hill, who is an elected official, said onscreen. "And what we had left was the crime scene that took us to the trial." In response to her Netflix interview, Murdaugh's lawyer Jim Griffin told NewsNation Sept. 25 that he's "flabbergasted that she is expressing her personal opinion that he murdered his wife and son and had help." Joshua Boucher/Pool/The State/Tribune News Service via Getty Images Reflecting on her "shocking" comments, Griffin shared, "I am reacting in real time to that. Frankly, that's the first I've heard of that. There's a code of judicial ethics that applies to all court officials that says no judicial officer should give their opinion about someone's guilt or innocence while the case is pending and pending includes while the case is on appeal." E! News has reached out to Murdaugh's lawyer, Hill and the Colleton County court for comment but hasn't heard back. Joshua Boucher/Pool/The State/Tribune News Service via Getty Images Murdaugh's attorney previously accused Hill of jury tampering in court documents filed in the South Carolina Court of Appeals on Sept. 5 and obtained by Today. The documents stated that Hill was "advising them not to believe Murdaugh's testimony" and "pressuring them to reach a quick guilty verdict." Murdaugh's team said they have sworn affidavits from two jurors about Hill's alleged conduct. At a press conference that day, Griffin alleged that Hill told jurors not to be "fooled" by Murdaugh's testimony and to "watch out for his body language." Hill has reportedly denied the allegations and maintained her innocence to The Hampton County Guardian, per local outlets WYFF4 and Greenville Online. Furthermore, her book co-author Neil Gordon said in a statement, "I would ask anyone following these alleged 'jury tampering' allegations to please reserve judgement until all the facts come out and all interviews are conducted by the proper, objective law enforcement authorities," per Greenville Online. Joshua Boucher/The State/Tribune News Service via Getty Images In March 2023, the jury found Murdaugh guilty on two counts of murder and two counts of possession of a weapon in the fatal shootings of Maggie, 52, and Paul, 22, by the dog kennels on their Moselle, S.C. property on June 7, 2021. For his part, Murdaugh has maintained his innocence, saying on the stand that he never shot his wife and son at "any time." (E! and Today are both part of the NBCUniversal family.) For more true crime updates on your need-to-know cases, head to Oxygen.com. The Queen of Jordan shared a never-before-seen photo from Princess Rajwa's henna party Queen Rania Al Abdullah/Instagram Queen Rania posted a photo with her daughters Princess Salma (left) and Princess Iman (right) to celebrate their September birthdays. Queen Rania of Jordan is celebrating double the birthday joy. On Tuesday, the Queen of Jordan, 52, wished her daughters, Princess Iman and Princess Salma, a happy birthday with a thoughtful tribute on Instagram. Salma turned 23 on Tuesday, while Iman will turn 27 on Wednesday. My whole heart! Happy birthday to my sweet daughters, I cherish you more and more every day, Rania captioned the snap, which showed her and her daughters posing closely and smiling at the camera. The previously unseen picture was taken at the henna party Queen Rania threw for her daughter-in-law Rajwa Alseif in May ahead of her June 1 wedding to Crown Prince Hussein. Queen Rania and her husband, King Abdullah of Jordan, are parents to four Crown Prince Hussein, 29, Princess Iman, Princess Salma and Prince Hasheem, 18. As the Kings eldest son, Hussein is heir to the throne of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, making Princess Rajwa the future queen. Queen Rania Al Abdullah/Instagram Queen Rania posted a photo with her daughters Princess Salma (left) and Princess Iman (right) to celebrate their September birthdays Related: Queen Rania Says She Told Daughter-in-Law Princess Rajwa 'Not to Read Comments' Before Royal Engagement The two tied the knot in a dazzling royal wedding at the start of the summer in nuptials that doubled as a royal reunion. Royals from around the world traveled to Amman for the epic celebration, including Prince William and Kate Middleton. The wedding was held nearly a year after Crown Prince Hussein announced his engagement to Rajwa, who received a princess title on their wedding day. Princess Rajwa, 29, has since embraced life in the royal fold and traveled to the United States in July with her husband and in-laws for a trip to Sun Valley, Idaho. She also joined Hussein in Washington, D.C. last week to meet with members of Congress about the strategic relationship between Jordan and the U.S. As Princess Rajwa steps further into the royal spotlight, Queen Rania revealed the advice she gave Rajwa before she and Hussein took their engagement public last summer. Queen Rania shared the tip while appearing on TODAY last Wednesday during her visit to New York City for the United Nations General Assembly. Related: Queen Rania Rings in 53rd Birthday with Family Party and Glam New Portrait See the Shot! "One of the first things, just before my son announced his engagement, I took Rajwa to the side and the first thing I told her was that there's no such thing as 100 percent approval rating," the Queen of Jordan told Hoda Kotb. "You're always going to have people that are against you, and the advice that I want to give you is 'Please try not to read the comments.' "You know, you're just going to have self-doubt, and there's always going to be negativity and it's not about you, it's from the person. They're unhappy in their own lives. So don't carry that unhappiness . . . it'll shake your confidence," she continued. "You just need to develop healthy habits around technology, and that's what you try to teach your kids. Not to stay away necessarily from their phones, but to interact with them in a healthier way and to also establish that balance. 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! A Royal Hashemite Court Queen Rania and Rajwa Alseif at her pre-wedding henna party in May While Princess Rajwa does not maintain a public presence on social media, her husband does. In addition to posting recaps from their recent trip to D.C., the heir to the throne also celebrated his wife with a heartfelt Instagram post the day after they got married. Hussein, who serves as a captain in the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army, shared the message with a formal portrait where he stood beside his bride at Zahran Palace in their wedding finery. God has blessed me with Rajwa, the light of my life and my lifelong companion, Hussein began the caption. May our marriage bring us both peace and warmth. I pray that God continues to bless us. Once again, my deepest thanks to everyone who celebrated with us from our beloved Jordan, as well as our family and loved ones from around the world. I could not be more thankful to God for the countless blessings He has granted me today, and to Rajwa for everything she is to me. Jordan Pix/Getty Images Crown Prince Hussein of Jordan and Rajwa Alseif on their June 1 wedding day For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Suzanne Morphew's remains were found on Sept. 22, more than three years after she vanished during a bike ride near her home on May 10, 2020 Chaffee County Sheriff's Office8BIM Suzanne Morphew Now that investigators have found the body of Suzanne Morphew, a Colorado mother of two who vanished during a bike ride near her home three years ago, charges being refiled in the case is possible. The mystery of the 49-year-olds disappearance began on Mothers Day on May 10, 2020, in Maysville, Colo., where she lived with her husband, Barry Morphew, and their two daughters, PEOPLE previously reported. While her bike and helmet were recovered during searches, her body remained missing until last weeks discovery in Saguache County by authorities who were out investigating an unrelated case. While this is the most significant development in the case, it has hardly remained stagnant throughout the years. About a year after Suzanne disappeared, prosecutors accused Barry of murdering his wife and charged him with first-degree murder, tampering with physical evidence and attempting to influence a public servant, PEOPLE previously reported. Related: Remains of Suzanne Morphew, Colorado Mom Last Seen 3 Years Ago, Found In August 2020, before his arrest, Barry spoke to FOX 21, stating that his wife's disappearance was "the most devastating thing that has ever happened to me." Barry pleaded not guilty and his trial was set to begin in April 2022, but Assistant District Attorney Linda Stanley dropped the charges without prejudice. This means that charges can be re-filed against Barry at a later time. In the motion, prosecutors said that they believed they were close to finding Suzanne's body and that they have a good faith reason to believe further investigation into this matter is essential to answering the most consequential question presented by this case. Related: Preliminary Hearing for Missing Colo. Mom Suzanne Morphew Unveils Extramarital Affair, Arguments About Money Before the charges were dismissed, prosecutors laid out a case against him in an 129-page affidavit, which was previously reviewed by PEOPLE. During one conversation in January 2021, authorities told Barry that his wife had been involved in an affair for nearly two years before she disappeared. In response, Barry allegedly told investigators that "maybe in God's eyes this was his way of resolving something, according to the affidavit. Related: Barry Morphew Pondered Whether Wife Suzanne's Disappearance Was Divine Intervention: Affidavit "I've had a very hard time understanding why God did this," he continued, according to the affidavit. "But if I would have known this from the beginning, I wouldn't had to suffer for nine months, not knowing why God did what he did. I'm not saying he did it to punish Suzanne because of her affair, but it makes more sense than what I knew before you guys came today." In the affidavit, investigators alleged that Barry tried to "hunt and control Suzanne like he had hunted and controlled animals" after she insisted on leaving him. Chaffee County Sheriff's Office Barry Morphew Following the arrest and dropped charges last year, Barry and the couples two daughters spoke out for the first time with ABC News to discuss Suzannes disappearance. Barry explained, "They've [prosecutors] got tunnel vision and they looked at one person and they've got too much pride to say they're wrong and look somewhere else." He added, "I don't have anything to worry about. I've done nothing wrong." "I just hope that Linda [the assistant district attorney] will step up to the plate and do everything she can to find our mom," Mallory said. "Because what they've done is not fair and we're never going to stop looking for our mom." Morphew's attorney, Iris Eytan, told PEOPLE in 2022 before Suzzane's body was found that she doesn't believe prosecutors will refile charges. Related: "What they said in their motion to dismiss was that they need a body; after two years' time, that's what they think they need now, after they put Mr. Morphew through this hell," she said. They might find Suzanne, but I'll tell you what it's not gonna be linked to Mr. Morphew," she added. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. A spokesperson for the Colorado Judicial Department tells PEOPLE that as of Thursday, "the Court does not have any open cases related to this matter." The spokesperson added that if a filing is made and a case is opened, any information on upcoming hearings will be shared on the CJD's social media pages. In a statement obtained by PEOPLE on Wednesday, Eytan said, Barry is with his daughters and they are all struggling with immense shock and grief after learning today that their mother and wife whom they deeply love was found deceased. They had faith that their wife and mom would walk back into their lives again. The news is heartbreaking. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. A Florida man on Monday pleaded guilty to distributing at least $16.7 million worth of counterfeit HIV and other medication to suppliers, pharmacies, and patients. Amando Herrera, 43, of Miami, Florida, pleaded guilty to a single count of conspiracy to introduce adulterated and misbranded drugs into interstate commerce, according to the Department of Justice. He was accused of setting up bogus companies in California, Florida, Massachusetts, and Texas which he used to sell adulterated medication to wholesale pharmaceutical distributors which sold the fake medicine to their established base of pharmacies. The products were ultimately sold to unsuspecting customers. Herrera and his co-conspirators created false documentation to make it appear as though the drugs were acquired legitimately when, in fact, they were not, the DOJ said in a statement on Monday. The pharmaceutical suppliers then sold the drugs to pharmacies, which dispensed the adulterated prescription drugs to unwitting patients. Gilead had been pursuing a civil lawsuit against Herrara and his alleged co-conspirator, Lazaro Roberto Hernandez. In April, Hernandez pleaded guilty to his role in the scheme and in June was sentenced to 180 months in prison. Gileads ongoing investigation revealed that these two kingpins directed the initial sale of the counterfeits through suppliers created solely to sell counterfeit medications, Gilead said in a statement last year. The suppliers sold the counterfeits to pre-existing licensed gray-market distributors with an established pharmacy customer base. The distributors then sold the counterfeit medication to U.S. pharmacies who dispensed the medication. Herrera will be sentenced on December 21. He faces a maximum of five years in prison. Former President Donald Trump is headed to Dallas in November for a fundraiser, according to The Dallas Morning News. The 2024 presidential candidate will be in North Texas for a Nov. 1 event hosted by Kenny and Lisa Troutt, according to an invitation obtained by the newspaper. The invitation does not give a time or place for the event. Troutt is a Dallas businessman who founded Excel Communications. Texas Elected Leadership Team...invite you to an evening with President Donald J. Trump, the invite reads, listing the current and one former elected officials that make up the leadership team. Among them are Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who was recently acquitted in his impeachment trial. Trump held his first campaign rally since launching his reelection bid in Waco in March. Trump isnt the only 2024 presidential working to win over North Texas voters and donors. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis stopped in Fort Worth in June for a fundraiser. Trump will also hold a fundraiser in Houston, the Dallas Morning News reports. Elizabeth Walters is chair of the Ohio Democratic Party and a member of Summit County Council. The only thing stopping a total abortion ban from taking effect in Ohio is your yes vote on Issue 1 on Nov. 7. Mere hours after the U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade came down, out-of-touch politicians at the Ohio Statehouse rushed to federal court to implement a six-week abortion ban that has no exceptions for rape, incest or to protect the life of the woman. This same abortion ban forced a 10-year-old rape victim to travel to Indiana for the critical health care she needed in a time of crisis. It would effectively end safe abortion care in Ohio and put the lives of thousands of women across Ohio at risk. And it would make Ohio one of the most extreme states in the country on abortion, making businesses and families alike hesitant to relocate to our state. More: Everything you need to know about Ohio's abortion issue on the November 7, 2023 ballot For corrupt politicians at the Statehouse, this was the plan all along. From Gov. Mike DeWine telling anti-abortion activists that he wanted to go as far as we can to limit abortion care in Ohio to State Rep. Jean Schmidt saying she would consider a birth control ban. And every Republican running for the U.S. Senate supports dangerous abortion bans, including bans with no exceptions for rape or incest. Now, the only way we can stop this Draconian abortion ban from taking effect and stop politicians from inserting themselves into our private, personal medical decisions is to vote yes on Issue 1 by Nov. 7. Its as simple as that. Frank LaRose is at it again We know the other side is going to try to divide and distract us with lies and misleading ads on TV, making the November election about everything except what its actually about: the right for Ohio women to make health care choices for themselves. Theyre already pulling out all the stops, with Secretary of State Frank LaRose and Republicans on Ohios ballot board sneaking through misleading language for the November ballot to sow confusion among Ohio voters about what the measure actually does. Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose LaRose put himself at the center of an August amendment designed to silence and benefit special interests and lost suffocating his Senate campaign in the process. Now, he is doing the same thing with the November abortion amendment. LaRose is giving the finger to Ohioans. Hes made it clear that he is not working for us and will do whatever it takes to silence and overrule Ohioans to further his own political ambitions. Standing with women and their families Heres the simple truth: Passing Issue 1 would protect our right to reproductive care in the Ohio Constitution so that our freedoms will not be up to the whims of whatever politicians are in power at the moment. Full stop. It will keep these private health care decisions where they belong: with women and their families. Any other talking points from the other side are just scare tactics meant to distract you from their anti-abortion agenda and their extreme total abortion ban. As we saw on Aug. 8, power belongs in the hands of the people, not politicians, and on Nov. 7, were going to once again send a message to the out-of-touch politicians who want to control our bodies and our medical decisions: We wont go back. So this November, join your fellow Ohioans in voting yes on Issue 1, stopping Ohios extreme abortion ban from taking effect and keeping personal, private medical decisions in the hands of Ohio women and families, not politicians. Elizabeth Walters has served as chair of the Ohio Democratic Party since January 2021. She is the first woman to head the Ohio Democratic Party and was unanimously reelected as chair in August 2022 to another four-year term. She also serves on Summit County Council. This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Vote yes on Issue 1 to stop Ohios draconian abortion ban Forty-six alerts come in a single day. They start at 4:56 a.m. They buzz peoples phones and ping laptops until their heads hit the pillow that night. The next jolt comes at 2:57 a.m., and a new day has started. These arent news alerts or friends messages. Theyre people in crisis. Whether they get a response is a matter of life or death for someone struggling with addiction or mental health issues. A male just walked into our office that needs immediate ip (inpatient) treatment. He was just released from (a) hospital with discharge paperwork. Need transportation. Can anyone help? Need housing for a lady and her newborn baby. I called (redacted), too long of a wait, I can't get ahold of anyone. Any help is greatly appreciated. We have a young man in the ER tonight who is unhoused and looking for work. He was just kicked out of his parents house today and is panicking. He said he is willing to do any sort of work. Even wanted to join the military but they wouldnt accept him with a mental health diagnosis. This is On the Front Lines Community Alliance, a multi-state effort that mobilizes volunteers in real time to help people who are suffering from opioid addiction and mental health crises. It started in 2018 as a Facebook group, quickly expanded with a 24-hour chat component and became a nonprofit this summer. When no one else is around to help Cincinnati-area residents who are in need, someone who knows about their situation posts a message on the chat asking for help. Then a peer recovery supporter, treatment professional or harm reduction worker finds a way to get the person what they need. The goal is to have people who are on the front lines and actually, like, in the mud, advocating for the (right) level of care for these people, said Daniel Ritchie, among the original members of the alliance. Cincinnati-area peer supporters in recovery were looking for help Aaron Laine (left), Hannah Schilling and Daniel Ritchie, original members of the grassroots On the Front Lines 24-7 chat. Amy Parker, of Fairfield, now an outreach specialist with Boulder Care treatment, started weekly get-togethers for peer supporters at a PF Changs in Norwood in 2018. A peer supporter herself, she wanted to create a space where they could help each other, because they struggle with being reminded of their own trauma as they try to help others. The six people who met for lunch were the first batch of Ohio-certified peer support specialists in the Cincinnati area. There were no government or charitable agencies running it. Addiction doctors didnt shape it. There was no mandate. I have a client in Akron 27. He just went to the hospital for drinking hand sanitizer. It is my understanding that he has mh (mental health) issues as well. Any ideas? I have a client that wants methadone, is in active use and can't get into (redacted). I need her to get somewhere soon !!! Helpppp thanks Any suggestions for an adolescent needing residential treatment? DOC (drug of choice) meth Caresource insurance? Parker pointed to a 2018 situation where her attempts to help a woman didnt work. The Clermont County woman, no older than 22, Parker recalled, was in recovery from opioid use disorder and had endocarditis, a life-threatening infection of the heart's valves and lining that can happen to people who inject drugs. Amy Parker started the support group for peer recovery supporters in Cincinnati. The group later expanded and evolved into On the Front Lines, a 24-7 chat linking recovery professionals who help each other get help and break down barriers to treatment and assistance for people with substance use disorders. Parker saw a hint of herself in this otherwise vibrant, hopeful woman. But the woman's heart condition worsened. She died, Parker said quietly. That was just hard. It really dawned on me this is hard for the peer support people. Its trauma. She wouldve thrived otherwise," Parker said. "She would have. So the peer supporters started supporting each other. Peer supporters expanded to become On the Front Lines Parker started inviting colleagues from her job at the time at Brightview Health to the luncheons. More and more people came. And they noticed they faced the same challenges that she did at her job. I have 2 males sleeping in vehicle with 4 adult dogs & 5 puppies in Dayton. Any options would be appreciated. I have a homeless vet who needs housed somewhere when their hotel is up on Thursday. Hannah Schilling, of Delhi, an addiction counselor and peer supporter, was on a community quick-response team that helped those whod recently survived an overdose. She said she would get frustrated sometimes because she had to find immediate help for a survivor, and it wasnt always within reach. I think its a misconception that you can pick up a phone and find an answer, Parker said. Ritchie, who has a social media support group Facebook page called Inspiring Recovery with Daniel Ritchie, remembers being in active addiction, desperate to get help, and walking into a hospital. He was turned away with a list of resources. I remember feeling very dehumanized, he said. Anyone know of a sober living that accepts kids with the mother in Cincinnati? 3 girls age 7,5,3. I have a woman with a 3 year old and a 5 month old escaping domestic violence that has been calling around, trying to get into a shelter and has been unsuccessful. She stayed in a tent with her children last night. Hannah Schilling speaks about On the Front Lines, a 24-7 chat that links people with substance use and mental health disorders to help. The peer supporters group had to evolve, Schilling said, to a platform in which they could still help each other, but most importantly, help those still suffering from substance use disorder. Schilling became the architect, taking the lead in creating a chat designed for everyone. The peer supporters had the life experience and trust from people who were in active addiction. The addiction and harm reduction professionals had evidence-based services ready but needed a network to help connect people to the individual care they needed. We wanted to do something that we ourselves would need, said Aaron Laine, known across the country for his podcast From Tragedy To Triumph. Now, they make sure another person doesnt get brushed off. Ritchie will respond to requests in the middle of the night, picking up people who don't have a car or bus fare to get to a treatment provider. Once, he arranged a 281-mile trip to Nashville, Tennessee, for a man who needed a ride to a center. Anyone know of treatment that accepts clients who have liver cancer? This person is not currently doing chemo. Have a grandmother with a 2 1/2 yr old that will be homeless tomorrow living in a motel. Need long term help. Is there anywhere that would help a client with laundry detergent? Daniel Ritchie, a treatment advocate for people with substance use disorder, says On the Front Lines includes peer recovery supporters who suffered from active addiction and now help guide those struggling to the help they need. On the Front Lines reaches Ohio, Northern Kentucky and Indiana The group expanded from the Cincinnati area and Northern Kentucky to nearly all parts of Ohio, more of Kentucky, and parts of Indiana. There are now more than 300 people helping. In June, the group formalized: The IRS approved On the Front Lines Community Alliance as a charitable organization, that can accept accept tax-deductible donations. The group also created a website detailing its mission. Aaron Laine says the opioid crisis has already happened, and On the Front Lines is a collaborative of people who understand what it's like to go through a substance use disorder, trying to save people who continue to struggle with it. "Were only just getting started," Laine said. "We will unlikely solve this crisis, but I dont want to imagine what this looked like if we did nothing. 36 yr old male dual diagnosis treatment DOC (drug of choice) is crack/cocaine or meth. Due to mental health I am having a hard time getting them inpatient treatment. Hi, FL (Front Lines). A male just walked into our office that needs immediate ip (inpatient) treatment. He was just released from Christ Hospital with discharge paperwork. Need transportation? Can anyone help? *** The messages shown in italics in this story were directly gathered with permission from the On the Front Lines group chat. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Peer volunteers in Cincinnati area respond 24/7 to addiction crises A Virginia man was arrested at a church after allegedly being found inside with a loaded semi-automatic pistol with an additional magazine, a folding knife and a folding "credit card"-style knife, according to police. Fairfax County police arrested 35-year-old Rui Jiang after becoming tipped off by a Maryland woman who called police in Ann Arundel County, Maryland, to report that Jiang allegedly made suspicious posts that included "vague threats" on Instagram, according to the police report. Fairfax Police Chief Kevin Davis said, "This was a thwarted diabolical plot to kill churchgoers in Haymarket, Virginia, and local law enforcement stopped it." MORE: 10 dead, 10 wounded in mass shooting in Monterey Park, California, with suspect found dead Anne Arundel police alerted authorities in Fairfax County, Virginia, that Jiang allegedly made threats against the Park Valley Church in Haymarket. "In the postings, vague threats of violence were made, some of which included images of a location later determined to be Park Valley Church," Prince William County police said. PHOTO: Fairfax County Police announced the arrest of 35-year-old Rui Jiang who was found outside of Park Valley Church in Haymarket, Virginia (Prince William County Police Department) Police were able to quickly locate Jiang's assumed residence in Falls Church, Virginia, but found he wasn't home, according to the police report. As the investigation continued, Fairfax County police contacted Prince William County police and an off-duty, uniformed Prince William County police officer who was working an assignment at the Park Valley Church located the car outside, police said. Police at the church identified a suspicious person who they later identified as Jiang. He was detained after entering the building through a separate door. No one was injured during the incident however, Fairfax County police say they later discovered Jiang's "disturbing" "kill manifesto," at his home. However, police did not describe what was found in the alleged document. MORE: 12 shot in Baton Rouge nightclub, police say Jiang was charged with threats of bodily harm and carrying a dangerous weapon in a place of religious worship. Jiang's bond hearing is scheduled for Wednesday morning. It wasn't immediately clear if he had an attorney who could comment. Prince William County police have asked anyone with information leading up to this incident, please call 703-792-7000. Police say they thwarted 'potential active shooter' outside church in Virginia originally appeared on abcnews.go.com LONDON One of the worlds most famous museums has a problem: Some of its treasures are missing, and it needs the public's help to find them. The British Museum in London this week appealed to the public to help recover around 2,000 lost, stolen or damaged items from its vast collection. Details and images were released Wednesday of the missing loot which includes jewelry and gems from the Greek and Roman eras in the hope of generating some leads on where they ended up. If you are concerned that you may be, or have been, in possession of items from the British Museum, or if you have any other information that may help us, please contact us at recovery@britishmuseum.org, the museum said in a statement. It came after the museum admitted last month that there had been a major theft, saying it had fired an unnamed member of the staff and announcing an independent review and recovery operation. The museum said it was acting on the advice of recovery specialists by not sharing the full details of each item or the exact images. The pictures it supplied are of similar objects and officials are hoping they have revealed enough to generate responses from the United Kingdom and beyond. The missing loot includes gems and semiprecious stones set in rings. Some are ancient and some are modern imitations, while some feature classical figures or animals. Also stolen were golden earrings dating to the Late Bronze Age, around the 15th the the 11th century B.C. None of the stolen items were on public display only around 80,000 objects are on display at any time, making up just 1% of the museums sprawling collection of 8 million pieces. A police investigation is underway into the thefts. Londons Metropolitan Police said it interviewed an unnamed man in August in relation to this, but no arrests have been made. British Museum theft (Yui Mok / PA via Getty Images) Christopher A. Marinello, CEO of Art Recovery International, which has recovered more than $600 million of stolen artwork and treasures, told NBC News that the British Museum theft was likely carried out by an insider who had been selling items online, including on eBay, for as many as 30 years. We get reports every single day of thefts from museums, churches, cultural institutions, private individuals, he said Wednesday. But what sets this apart is that its a major museum, such as the British Museum that is so well-funded and secure. It was quite alarming. The investigation centers on the system through which the museum allows staff access to its treasures. Many things in storage are largely of interest to scholars and curators and may only be brought out for study or major exhibitions, affording them less security than things upstairs behind glass panels. But when things are in storage, and many museums have most of their collection below ground in storage there still needs to be very strict security protocols in place, Marinello added. Insider theft at major museums is not unheard of, he said. In fact, 10 years ago, I was involved in a very similar case in Sweden, where a curator was stealing things from various Swedish museums outside of Stockholm, selling the objects to buy cars, to buy suits. And it was years before he was discovered, he said. The British Museum should publish a full, exact list of every stolen item with accurate pictures, Marinello argued, to stop people from buying stolen objects and even offer compensation to people who have already bought some. But its unlikely the museum has photos of everything that was stolen, he said, meaning that some may never be recovered. Other comparable items include a Roman sard intaglio, dating between the 1st-3rd century A.D., and a blue glass intaglio, said to be from Akhmim, Egypt, between the 2nd-3rd century A.D. (British Museum) The scandal comes after the debate over what European museums should do with items taken from colonized nations across Africa and Asia in the 18th and 19th centuries has intensified in recent years. Much of the museums collection was acquired during Britain's colonial expansion during the Victorian era and many countries have requested the return of items. Museums in the Netherlands, Germany and France have agreed to return various artifacts, including human skulls. The British Museums most contentious include the Benin bronzes which were taken during a military conflict in West Africa in 1897. The latest scandal challenges the museums position that it is the safest place to keep the worlds treasures, experts believe. Theyve been saying, These objects are much better preserved in the British Museum. We have much better security. We cant trust that these objects would be safe in your countries, Marinello said. Now that this step has been taken, that argument is gone. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com EKUANITSHIT, QC, HAVRE-SAINT-PIERRE, QC and MONTREAL, Sept. 28, 2023 /CNW/ - The Muteshekau-shipu Alliance is pleased to announce that the Magpie River has been registered as an Indigenous and Community Conserved Area (ICCA), an internationally recognized status for the conservation of Indigenous territory. It is the first territory in Canada to achieve ICCA status, the result of an initiative announced by the Alliance last December. Alliance Muteshekau-shipu (CNW Group/Alliance Muteshekau-shipu) The Muteshekau-shipu Alliance is also calling upon the federal government to include without delay the Magpie River territory in the Canadian Protected and Conserved Areas Database (CPCAD), managed by Environment and Climate Change Canada. Hydro-Quebec surely has no choice but to relinquish all plans for any new hydroelectric dam on the Magpie River, given Quebec and Canada's renewed commitment to protect 30% of the territory by 2030, the regional consensus in favour of its protection, the river's legal personhood and now this recently acquired ICCA status. Criteria for achieving ICCA status include a close and deep connection between the territory and the Indigenous People or local community who act as its custodians, and a system of local governance that positively contributes to its conservation. Granting legal personality to the Magpie River in February 2021, which gave it nine basic rights, was a major step in achieving this status. Even today, the Magpie River is used by the Innus of Ekuanitshit for several activities that contribute to ensuring the continuity of Innu-aitun (the traditional way of life) and Innu-aimun (the Innu language). It should also be noted that the Magpie River is internationally renowned for whitewater sports, such as rafting, kayaking and canoeing and that the Bureau d'audiences publiques sur l'environnement du Quebec (BAPE) has issued multiple reports calling for its protection. Link to the ICCA registry: https://www.iccaregistry.org/en/explore/canada/muteshekau-shipu Story continues Quotes : "Achieving ICCA status adds a new layer of protection for the Magpie River. Let's hope Hydro-Quebec listens to reason and permanently takes this river off the list of options for hydroelectric development." - Pier-Olivier Boudreault, Conservation Director, SNAP Quebec "Thanks once again to our community's leadership, Muteshekau-shipu is shining at the international level with this new Indigenous and Community Conserved Area status, the first of its kind in Canada. We have enhanced the protection of this significant river within our Nitassinan as well as strengthened our Innu vision for its future." -Jean-Charles Pietacho, Innu Chief of Ekuanitshit "Minganie is full of world-renowned natural jewels, such as the Magpie River. Achieving ICCA status once again shows how important it is to protect these gifts of nature to ensure their value as recreation and tourism destinations." - Meggie Richard, Reeve of the Minganie Regional County Municipality SOURCE Alliance Muteshekau-shipu Cision View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/September2023/28/c6312.html Wawa, which launched its convenience-store chain in the Philadelphia-South Jersey region almost 60 years ago, has provided more details on a planned expansion beyond its homeland. The privately held firm on Wednesday said it plans to open about 160 stores in Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio over the next eight to 10 years. The effort would bring 60 stores each to Indiana and Ohio, with about 40 expected in Kentucky. Groundbreakings are to begin next year, with store openings to start in 2025. Each store is expected to cost about $7 million. Wawa expands its menu Hold that hoagie! Wawa introduces late-night pizza The details were released as Wawa held "community partnership" events in the three states from Sept. 26 through Sept. 28. Wawa brings its hoagies and more to Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio Participants could sample Wawa's wares, including hoagies, coffee and smoothies. Wawa said the events were intended "to officially introduce itself to the community and share more details about its first wave of expansion plans into the market." Wawa, known for its hoagies, coffee and other products, opened its first store in suburban Philadelphia in 1964. It came to South Jersey in 1968. opening a Mount Laurel store that still operates at Church Road and Ramblewood Parkway. Wawa, which now combines larger stores with fueling stations, earlier this year celebrated the opening of its 1,000th store in Oaklyn. The company also operates in Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and Florida. In the statement, Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg said Wawa "has a passionate customer base built around its signature hoagies, freshly brewed coffee, and hand-crafted smoothies." Company representatives made stops in Kentucky on Tuesday and in Ohio on Wednesday.They were expected to tour Indiana locations on Thursday. Wawa broke ground in May for its first store in North Carolina and expects to open enter the Tennessee market in 2025. It also plans to add at least 40 stores across the Florida Panhandle and Alabama Gulf Coast markets, as well as 20 more in Georgia. Jim Walsh is a senior reporter with the Courier-Post, Burlington County Times and The Daily Journal. Email him at jwalsh@cpsj.com. This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: Wawa details growth plans for Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio The House Armed Services Committee is expected to grill top Biden administration officials during a Thursday hearing after a planned headquarters shift for U.S. Space Command was scrapped by the Biden administration, which infuriated Alabama Republicans. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Ala.), the chairman of the committee, will lead a full committee hearing at 10 a.m. Thursday on the nixed plan to transfer Space Command headquarters to his state, which he and other Alabama politicians have decried as a politically motivated decision. We will get answers on President Bidens political manipulation of the selection process, Rogers said in a statement announcing the hearings, claiming Biden made the decision in order to improve his political standing for next years re-election. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall and the commander of Space Command, Gen. James Dickinson, will testify at the hearing, along with Gen. Chance Saltzman, the chief of space operations for the U.S. Space Force. Space Command is one of 11 combat command centers under the Pentagon. Former President Trump revived the command center as an independent entity in 2018 to protect American interests in space and temporarily placed its operations in Colorado Springs, Colo., with a plan to relocate it to Alabamas Huntsville. The Biden administration, however, ditched the plan in July and said keeping the base within Colorado would maintain military readiness as the relocation process could take up to the early or mid-2030s, while keeping it in Colorado means full operation in a month. The clash is not surprising. A Space Command headquarters is flush with benefits: about 1,400 jobs for an estimated annual $1 billion economic impact. Heres what to expect as lawmakers are set to press officials on the decision. Abortion laws impacting the decision a leading concern In May, NBC News reported the Biden administration may choose not to relocate Space Command because of a near-total abortion ban in the state. That quickly led to a formal investigation headed by Rogers, who was already frustrated with the long delay of relocating Space Command. The investigation so far has not yielded any discernible public results. Rogers has complained that Biden administration officials have refused to provide documents and information. In August, Rogers announced that a hearing would take place and that the Pentagon would provide the requested documents. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Ala.), who also sits on the House Armed Services Committee, said he had asked for the hearing because the Biden reversal threatens the credibility of the Pentagon and sets a dangerous precent for all future military decisions. I wasnt kidding when I said this is far from over, he said in a statement. Ive certainly got a lot of questions Im ready to ask. Pentagon reports found Huntsville is the best option Alabama lawmakers say Huntsville was selected under a fair process as the best choice for the base. Redstone Arsenal was one of six finalists for the headquarters along with Peterson Air Force Base, but only the Huntsville base finished first in both the Air Forces evaluation and selection phase. Colorado lawmakers have complained that the original decision was politically motivated by Trump, who has said he single-handedly chose Redstone Arsenal. In office, Biden ordered reviews of the decision, questioning if Trump chose Redstone Arsenal in Alabama over Peterson Air Force Base because he enjoys more political support in the Yellowhammer State. But a U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) report and a Pentagon inspector general evaluation found the process under Trump was largely fair. Rogers asked the GAO to launch another inquiry, this time into Bidens selection process for the headquarters. In Thursdays hearing, lawmakers are likely to point to the preferred selection of Redstone Arsenal and the reviews finding no wrongdoing in Trumps decision. Alabama concerned Space Command was built out Alabama is also concerned that Space Commands temporary location was built up prior to the formal decision not to relocate. Before the July decision, House lawmakers offered amendments in the annual defense bill to restrict funding to build out a Space Command site in Colorado before a final selection is made. While those amendments are likely not valid anymore because the final decision was made, the concerns remain. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.) released records claiming that Dickinson purchased a $1.5 million, 20-acre ranch near the Colorado base in April, according to AL.com. This new revelation raises more questions into the legitimacy of an already dubious decision by President Biden, Britt wrote. Alabamas congressional delegation is going to continue fighting to right this wrong. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has demanded a Pentagon inspector general investigation into the process based on Dickinsons apparent purchase. Since taking office, this president has targeted red states for daring to resist his radical progressive agenda, the attorney general said. But when it comes to national security, politics must take a backseat. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) said Thursday that he would absolutely put forward a resolution to expel Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) from the Senate if there was a chance it would work. I would absolutely support that and pursue it, Fetterman told reporters. Whatever kind of procedure that could bring about getting rid of him, Im all for it, he said. You know, honor clearly isnt going to be the option to appeal to at this point. Fetterman didnt give any specifics about whether he is planning to introduce a Senate resolution to expel Menendez. The Pennsylvania senator was standing outside the room where Menendez had just defended himself to Democratic colleagues after he was indicted last Friday on corruption charges. None of the senators trickling out of the lunch meeting would say what Menendez said in there, beyond him reiterating that hes not resigning. Fetterman, who was the first senator to call on Menendez to resign and has been his most vocal critic, didnt attend the meeting. He said he didnt see the point in hearing from Menendez unless he was planning to resign, and that the allegations against Menendez are too egregious to ignore. Im not interested in some kind of explanation on why he has gold bars in his mattress, Fetterman said, referring to the New Jersey Democrat being charged with accepting bribes including $100,000 in gold bars and nearly half a million dollars in cash in return for using his influence as chairman of the Senate foreign relations committee to do favors for the Egyptian government. Menendez stepped down as committee chairman on Friday. But it was because he had to, per Senate Democrats rules. The level of arrogance is just astonishing, Fetterman said. Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) says Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), who is embroiled in a corruption scandal, needs to resign already. Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) says Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), who is embroiled in a corruption scandal, needs to resign already. More than half of the Senate Democratic caucus has called on Menendez to go, including Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (Ill.). But Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (N.Y.) has kept mum. After Thursdays lunch, Schumer marched out of the room, briskly walked through a mob of reporters and headed straight to the Senate floor without saying a word. Fetterman said he hopes Schumer tells Menendez he needs to resign. He also said he would support a Democrat challenging Menendez for his Senate seat. Basically, he seems ready to do anything to force Menendez out. He appears to see Menendez as a liability for the party, especially for Democrats who are up for reelection in 2024 in seats that could flip Republican. You have our colleagues in tough races right now, in my state, or Montana, or Ohio, and the kind of baggage that [Menendez] brings to this already makes it kind of difficult, Fetterman said. Now he puts New Jersey in play too. Its remarkable to even have this conversation, he added. I cant imagine him marching in here, standing in front of people and saying, Hey, yes, let me explain the gold in the mattress and the cash ... Its bizarre. Related... Othal Wallace is returned to a cell, Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, after being convicted of manslaughter in the killing of Daytona Beach police officer Jason Raynor. A defense attorney is seeking a new trial for convicted cop killer Othal Wallace, arguing in a court filing that Wallace did not get a fair trial. Wallace was spared a first-degree murder conviction and a possible death sentence on Sept. 16 when a Clay County jury found him guilty of the lesser offense of manslaughter with a firearm in the killing of Daytona Beach police officer Jason Raynor. "The verdict is contrary to the law or the weight of the evidence," wrote defense attorney Garry Wood in the just over two-page motion filed Monday. If the judge were to grant the motion, Wallace could be retried on the manslaughter with a firearm charge. But he could not be retried on the charge of first-degree murder or second-degree murder since the jury did not convict him of those. Othal Wallace: Here is a look back at important moments in the case Wallace, 31, was charged with first-degree murder in Raynor's shooting June 23, 2021. The 26-year-old Raynor remained hospitalized until his death on Aug. 17, 2021. The request hinges on several objections made by the defense during the trial, including instructions related to "legal issues concerning detentions, arrests and consensual encounters." Wallace's lawyers repeatedly asked during the trial to present to the jury testimony about types of police encounters with citizens. Circuit Judge Raul Zambrano denied the requests. "The court erroneously refused to give a proper instruction requested by defendant and defendant's substantial rights were prejudiced thereby," the motion stated. Criminal Defense Attorney Aaron Delgado, who was not involved in the Wallace case, said motions for a new trial are a standard practice in serious cases. Delgado said its rare that a judge grants such a motion, adding that he has had only one in about 100 cases. They are basically bringing up again the jury questions as evidence that they should have been given a special jury instruction, Delgado said. They are really making it crystal clear when they go to make the appeal. The State Attorney's Office had not yet responded to a request for comment from The News-Journal. Objections to police trainer, picture collage The motion objects to testimony by Roy Bedard, a witness for the prosecution and police trainer, who said it was legal for law enforcement to detain Wallace even if he was not doing anything illegal, and that he could "not walk away from such detention." Defense attorneys objected that Bedard misrepresented the law and asked for the jury to receive a special instruction, which was denied, the motion stated. The defense also objected admitting into evidence a collage of pictures that contained a photo of a machete and Wallace wearing a T-shirt with the New Black Panther Party symbol on it. Other objections included: the admission of Wallace's Instagram posts; evidence regarding the assault rifle and "banana clip" found in a treehouse where Wallace was arrested in Georgia; and the court's denial that the defendant be able to introduce evidence as to Raynor's character and reputation. Wallace's sentencing is planned to take place within two months. This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: New trial sought in Daytona Beach police officer Jason Raynor's death An acting legend. Michael Gambons cause of death was announced by his family on September 28, 2023. He was 82. Michael Gambon started his prolific acting career in the Gate Theatres 1962 production of Othello, playing Second Gentleman. As a theater actor, he won three Laurence Olivier Awards; in 1986, for best comedy performance, for Ayckbourns A Chorus of Disapproval; in 1988, for best actor, for Arthur Millers A View From the Bridge; and in 1990, for comedy performance, for Ayckbourns Man of the Moment. More from StyleCaster Gambon took over the role of Albus Dumbledore in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban after the death of original Dumbledore actor Richard Harris. Gambon admitted that he had never read the Harry Potter series, Id never seen any of the previous films, but working on the series was huge fun and for lots of dosh. Though with over 150 credits on screen, Gambon preferred to be on the stage. He talked about his acting methods throughout his nearly 50 year long career. You just do it, says Gambon to The Guardian. Thats what acting is. But I admit I try and summon up a powerful image. The one I often think of is that of a little girl in uniform, taken during the Vietnam war, with her clothes and body on fire because of an aerial bomb. I believe she recovered and is now a doctor, which makes me feel Im not simply exploiting someone elses tragedy. Click here to read the full article. So how did Michael Gambon die? Read more to find out. Michael Gambon Cause of Death Michael Gambon Cause of Death Michael Gambon died on September 28, 2023. His family issued a statement, Beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia. Michael was 82. In 2015, Gambon retired from stage acting after suffering from memory loss. Its a horrible thing to admit, but I cant do it. It breaks my heart, he told The Sunday Times (via ABC News). Its when the scripts in front of me and it takes me forever to learn it. Its frightening. He recalled how he would recite lines after experiencing the loss. There was a girl in the wings and I had to plug in my ear so she could read me the lines, he said. After about an hour I thought, This cant work. You cant be in theater, free on the stage, shouting and screaming and running around with someone reading to you. He affirmed that the stage was where he wanted to be as an actor. Theaters the only place for me to be. When the curtain goes up, on you come. No ones stopping you. No one can shout cut. Theres a thousand people sitting there and they can see you moving, all over. They watch every part how you walk, how you stand. The way you sit. The way you look at people. He still continued to act in movies adding, Youve got to go to work, havent you? How did the cast of Harry Potter react to Michael Gambons death? When news broke of his death, James Phelps who played Fred Weasley in the Harry Potter films, posted on X (formerly Twitter), Very sorry to hear about the passing of Michael Gambon. He was, on and off the camera, a legend. Just a little memory of Michael. He also posted the screenshot, Whilst shooting HP6 I worked on the AD department for the whole shoot (apart from the days I was acting). And for that reason I spent many hours with Michael during the shoot. He was always very funny and very welcoming to share any knowledge he had. He continued, One day we were shooting Dumbledores final clock tower scene, obviously quite an intense scene. In between set ups Michael asked what I was up to that weekend. As it happened my brother and I were reading Peter and the wolf with the Manchester Halle orchestra. Do you have the script with you? He asked, I did, Ive done that, lets got [sic] through it and if you like I can give some notes. So we spent what should have been his downtime going over my weekend gig. It is a memory Ive always had as one of the highlights of my HP days. Best of StyleCaster A routine approval for an election systems agreement by the Minnehaha County commission turned into a surprise debate Tuesday about the future of voting in Sioux Falls. While the commission approved a three-year agreement with Election Systems & Software to pay for future ballot layouts, ballot printing services and more, Minnehaha County Auditor Leah Anderson floated the idea of possibly hand counting ballots in future elections. Im very much in favor with being a county that does random hand counts at the precinct level along with the tabulators, she said, adding she wants to be more cautious of the technology used in elections going forward. More: Future of voting unrealized: Few SD counties adopt vote centers and e-poll books Anderson also said state statute allows for county commissioners to choose how elections can be run in the county. County auditors typically run elections in their area. But the statute referenced by Anderson allows for the governing body, such as a county commission, to adopt, to experiment with or to abandon any automatic tabulating or electronic ballot marking system approved for use by the State Board of Elections. Thats what happened in 2022 in Tripp County, when Tripp County Commissioners voted to hand count ballots the first time in nearly 20 years, according to South Dakota Searchlight. Counting boards had to recount ballots multiple times on Election night and ultimately, the hand count led to a court order to reopen a precincts ballot box after there was a discrepancy between the number of official completed ballots recorded in the poll books and the number of audited ballots. The discrepancy was because of human error, when the precincts ballots were tallied into another precinct. More: Most South Dakota county auditors disagree with election drop box ban In Tuesdays meeting, commissioners voiced they felt ambushed by the topic of hand counting ballots when the business was to only approve a service agreement. Commissioner Jean Bender defended ES&S saying that the South Dakota Secretary of States office had vetted the business and that Minnehaha County had used it for years. Commissioner Dean Karsky said the commission was receiving mixed messages and the waters had been muddied. Commissioner Joe Kippley said he did not appreciate the way the smuggling in of the topic and that if Anderson had a more concrete recommendation on how future elections should be held, then she should bring it. I just dont really have a lot of patience for the nonsense around the election fraud stuff, he said. I came of age in the 2000 election and there was a sore loser in that election too. That losing side needs to learn how to lose and come back, change, win over the people and win the next election. This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Minnehaha County auditor might want to hand count election ballots U.S. democracy is in crisis. Books are being banned, new voter suppression laws abound, and leading presidential candidates flirt with fascism. As the hot labor summer of 2023 extends into autumn, including a high-profile visit by President Joe Biden to the United Auto Workers picket lines, the slew of national strikes and labor actions seems unrelated to our democracy problem. The unions actions are generally viewed as disputes about wages and benefits. But in fact, there is a close connection: Unions have a crucial and vastly underappreciated role in shoring up our fragile democracy. Historically, fascists have grasped the potential power of labor organizations: Nazis persecuted trade unionists, for example, as did the Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet. They understood that unions empower regular people to join together and have agency in their own lives, an endeavor that is inherently anti-authoritarian. As autoworkers, actors, writers, and others have taken to the picket lines, the resulting images have been of crowds that are nonviolent, militant yet joyful, and multiracial, everyday people lifting their voices together in the service of the pro-social, positive goal of better lives at work. Theres been a lot of commentary on the various strikes: horse-race opinions about the unions strategies and demands, analysis of the economic impact, self-interested questions about when our beloved shows will again begin streaming. Some pundits have raised concerns about the UAW strikes potential impact on the 2024 election: Will a prolonged auto-industry strike harm Bidens chances? Will Michigan voters fall for Donald Trumps baloney visit to a nonunion auto parts plant this week (an insulting ploy to paint himself as pro-worker despite a terrible record on labor)? But theres been little to no discussion about the value of such highly visible union activity to our democracy. Unionsthemselves democratic institutionsare critical for a healthy democracy: Research shows they reduce economic inequality, build cross-racial solidarity, and help people grow their democratic muscle. Consider the current UAW strike. UAW president Shawn Fain, a reformer opposing the unions old guard, was elected by members in the unions first-ever direct election. Bargaining proposals were developed with direct input from members, who submitted thousands of resolutions that were considered by leadership and bargaining committees and some of which were incorporated into fully formed proposals. UAW members overwhelmingly voted to authorize the strike. Fain and the negotiating team are providing transparency on negotiations; theyve refused to bargain secretly on core demands: Theyre updating membership regularly including through social media. Meanwhile, it is union members themselves who are standing up and putting their livelihoods on the line. The same is true of other high-profile strikes and almost strikes of 2023. Union members, including Teamsters, actors, and writers, elected their leaders. The media often lazily refers to union bosses, an inaccurate and smearing term with organized-crime connotations. But union leaders the opposite of bosses: Theyre chosen by and genuinely answerable to their members. For example, they cant alone declare a strike. Members must authorize a strike ahead of time. (Nevadas powerful culinary union authorized a strike just Tuesday.) And union members must vote to approve any agreement thats reached. Writers Guild members will vote on whether to accept the tentative agreement reached this week with the Hollywood studios; similarly, when the Teamsters reached an agreement with UPS, members voted (86 percent) to approve the contract and avert a strike; the contract itself contained terms members had identified as priorities, such as air conditioning in UPS trucks. Given the ongoing participation and engagement that union membersordinary workershave in relation to their work lives, its not surprising that research shows that unions increase democratic participation overall. A little-known fact: Unions increase voter turnout in general, with an even greater impact on people with lower levels of formal education or lower income levels. One study plainly stated, The greater the share of workers represented by unions, the greater is the turnout. Conversely, voter restriction laws are more likely to pass in states with lower union density. Studies show, too, that unions encourage more civic interactions with co-workers. Unions also help promote elected political leadership from people with working- and middle-class jobs. For example, the AFL-CIO runs a union member candidate program to try to foster more political leadership from labor-oriented working people who cant provide their own war chest to a campaign. (Conservatives might argue that unions arent good for democracy per se, but rather are better for the Democratic Party, since unions heavily back Democrats. But higher voter turnout and more representative political leadership are plainly good for democracy. And if unions support Democrats, that stems from the reality that Democrats fight for change that will benefit working people, including not only job-related issues like higher minimum wages and paid leave, but also broader issues like increased education funding and continuation of the child care tax credit.) What exactly is the mechanism by which unions lead to increased civic engagement? One theory is that workers become accustomed to being active and engaged, having agency over their lives, participating in a common endeavor, and having a voice. In this way, unions have been described as helping build democratic muscle. Also, union involvement in the political realm leads to policies that meet working peoples needs; this creates a virtuous cycle in which civic participation seems more worthwhile, as people see that government can tangibly improve their lives. Another benefit: Unions help build cross-racial solidarity. Footage of the UAW strike, for example, shows a multiracial array of strikers and supporters chanting and picketing together. And todays union members are far more diverse than those of yesteryear. Nationwide, around two-thirds of working people covered by a union contract are women and/or people of color. Indeed, union membership has also been shown to reduce racial resentment among white workers and promote interracial solidarity. This makes sense: Unions involve workers joining together in a common cause. In this way, unions offer an alternative to the ugly scapegoating and division too many working stiffcosplaying conservative politicians offer in place of real solutions. The American public increasingly understands the value of unions in our society. In a recent Gallup poll, 67 percent of respondents said they approve of unions. Respondents also overwhelmingly supported the writers union, actors union, and UAW over their corporate employers; theres a visceral positive reaction, it seems, in seeing regular people joining to stand up to corporate powers. In another poll, half of the respondents in nonunion jobs said they would support a union in their workplace. (Despite this popularity, outdated laws and vicious corporate anti-union campaigns have kept union density low in the United States around 10 percent nationally.) Perhaps the public is coming to realize that the labor movement is one of the only national institutions operating at a scale, with a membership base of millions, that can at least sometimes serve as a counterbalance both to emerging fascism and to unbridled corporate interests. Indeed, the widespread public support for the UAW workers likely reflects empathetic solidarity with people who seeking more control over their own lives, despite powerful forces that would deny this. Theres a lot of fretting currently about what to do about U.S. democracy; it feels more fragile than it has in generations. Bolstering and forming unions is an important answer to this urgent problem. Labor unrest can be tumultuous and strikes can feel destabilizing, but unions as a whole help create conditions in which democracy can thrive. In this context, highly visible labor actions, including strikes, can help give hope to the broader population: They model human agency along with the possibility of democratic revival. An airplane carrying two people crashed during a thunderstorm over Kentucky, prompting a massive search effort, police said. An air traffic control tower reported a possible crash near the Kentucky-Indiana border around 11 p.m. on Sept. 27, according to a news release from the Ohio County Sheriffs Office. The two people onboard a pilot and a student pilot were flying from Bowling Green to Owensboro, a 70-mile journey, when the control tower lost contact, police said. At the time of the suspected crash a severe thunderstorm had developed in the area, police said. A multi-agency search including officials from the Kentucky State Police and Ohio County Sheriffs Office soon began. Officials used flight path information, an aviation app and pings from the pilots phone in order to narrow their search, police said. An airplane and several drones were also launched in order to scan the area from the sky. Eventually, the search became focused around New Panther Creek Church, located on a rural road in Whitesville, Kentucky, about 20 miles outside of their destination of Owensboro, police said. We started finding a little bit of debris after a couple hours, Ohio County Sheriff Adam Wright told McClatchy News. First thing we found was a navigational map and some paperwork. The planes wreckage was located several hours after sunrise on Sept. 28, Wright said. It was found about 600 yards from the search teams mobile command post. The aircraft was a single-engine Piper PA-28, according to a statement from the Federal Aviation Administration. Two bodies were recovered at the scene, Wright said. The names of the deceased are being withheld until their next of kin are notified. Whitesville is about 100 miles southwest of Louisville. 90-year-old acupuncturist accused of sexually assaulting patient in North Carolina Man suddenly burst into flames after girlfriend poured liquid on him, PA police say Fighter 16-year-old dies after lightning strike on hunting trip with dad in Florida President Joe Biden made a quick visit to the Phoenix area for a private campaign fundraiser and a public tribute to the legacy of John McCain , who represented Arizona for six terms in the U.S. Senate. Biden, a longtime senator from Delaware, served with McCain for years. Then he and then-presidential candidate Barack Obama campaigned against McCain and his running mate, Sarah Palin, in the 2008 presidential race. Biden's son, Beau, died of brain cancer like McCain, and Biden spoke at McCain's 2018 memorial service in Phoenix. McCain's widow, Cindy, endorsed Biden for president against Donald Trump in 2020 and was appointed as a U.S. ambassador in his administration. Here's a recap of the trip to honor McCain. Presidential visit: Biden praises John McCain, excoriates Trump and 'MAGA extremists' Library honoring McCain to include archives, think tank offices The new McCain National Library announced by President Joe Biden in connection with his visit this week to Arizona will house the late Sen. John McCains archives, Arizona State University officials said. The 80,000-square-foot library will include a visitors center and offices for the McCain Institute, a nonpartisan think tank. It will be located on a piece of land located near Mill Avenue and Curry Road, university officials said, across Tempe Town Lake and north of ASUs Tempe campus. Theres no timeline for the librarys development, officials said, but they plan to work with the McCain family, Gov. Katie Hobbs and community stakeholders in coming months to determine exact design and construction plans. Meanwhile, ASU leaders intend to launch a fundraising campaign to support the project, which also will receive federal funds from a $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package passed early in Bidens presidency. Ultimately, university officials said they envision the space as a solutions center and gathering spot to learn more about leadership, democracy and national security. John McCain is an important symbol of American democracy, and he holds a special place of respect and appreciation in Arizona and with Arizona State University, ASU President Michael Crow said. We will work with others around the country and in the community to take this unique portion of the ASU Tempe campus and create a place that honors his extraordinary life and legacy, serves the principles he devoted his life and career to, and carries that legacy forward for future generations to learn from. Sasha Hupka Handful of protesters demonstrate outside Biden event About seven protestors stood across the street from the Tempe Center for the Arts on Rio Salado Parkway after President Joe Biden finished speaking about his late friend Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., and the threat to democracy posed by "MAGA extremists." The group was decked out in red, white and blue clothing and carried two American flags, a "MAGA" flag and several signs, one of which said "Traitor Joe." Morgan Fischer Biden blasts 'MAGA extremists' for undermining military President Joe Biden condemned Thursday who he called "MAGA extremists" for hurting the U.S. military. Speaking at the Tempe Center for the Arts, Biden zeroed in on former President Donald Trump for recently suggesting that Gen. Mark Milley, the outgoing chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, deserved the death penalty. Rep. Paul Gosar, R-Ariz., echoed Trump by saying Milley should be hanged. "This is the United States of America. And although I don't believe even a majority of Republicans think that, the silence is deafening," Biden said. " ... Hardly any Republican called out such hated statements." Biden also singled out for criticism Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., who has been blocking military promotions in a dispute with the Pentagon over abortion travel policy. "MAGA extremists claim support of our troops but they're harming military readiness, troop morale, freezing pay, freezing military families in limbo," he said. Biden also recalled a report that said Trump referred to servicemembers and those killed and wounded in combat as "suckers and losers." And he referred to Trump's attempts to denigrate the late Sen. John McCain's military record. McCain, R-Ariz., was shot down over North Vietnam in 1967 and spent five and a half years as a prisoner of war. "I'm not making this up. I know we all try not to remember, but that's what he said. He called servicemen suckers and losers," Biden said. "Was John a sucker? Was my son Beau, who lived next to a burn pit for a year, came home and died? Was he a sucker for volunteering to serve his country?" The "MAGA extremists" have made it clear where they stand, so it's up to the rest of Americans to make it clear where they stand, Biden said. Dan Nowicki Biden defends American Democracy, excoriates Trump and his supporters Speaking in Tempe, President Joe Biden mounted a defense of American Democracy and blasted former President Donald Trump and the "MAGA Movement" as an existential threat. "Seizing power. Concentrating power. Attempting to abuse power," Biden said. "Purging and packing key institutions. Spewing conspiracy theories. Spreading lies for profit and power to divide America in every way. Inciting violence against those who risk their lives to keep America safe. Weaponizing against the very soul of who we are as Americans. "This MAGA threat is a threat to the brick and mortar of our democratic institutions, but it's also a threat to the character of our nation, that gives our Constitution life, that binds us together as Americans in common cause," he continued. Dan Nowicki Cindy McCain recalls how Biden introduced her to John McCain Cindy McCain, the widow of Sen. John McCain, recalled Thursday how now-President Joe Biden introduced her to her husband. At the time, McCain, a former POW during the Vietnam War, was the U.S. Navy's liaison to the Senate. He was in Hawaii on his way to Asia with a Senate delegation. Cindy McCain was there on spring break with her parents. They all wound up at the same reception. "During the course of that event, There were two people that came over to me and said you have got to meet this man in this room," McCain said in introducing Biden at the Tempe Center for the Arts. "President Biden and Mrs. Biden introduced me to my husband, and I am so grateful for that." In his remarks, Biden, a former long-serving senator from Delaware, said he remembered that McCain was immediately smitten with Cindy McCain but was hesitant to introduce himself to her. "I take credit," Biden said. Biden said he also was the guy who encouraged McCain to run for Congress in Arizona as a Republican. McCain won his first of two U.S. House terms in 1982 and then won the retiring Sen. Barry Goldwater's Senate seat in 1986. He would go on to win the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 but lost to the Democratic ticket of Barack Obama and Biden. Biden said he told McCain he could do the job on Capitol Hill and was just worried that he would do it too well. Dan Nowicki Biden calls saving American Democracy 'central cause' of his presidency President Joe Biden on Thursday is expected to detail how "the defense, the protection and the preservation of American Democracy" is the "central cause" of his presidency, according to excerpts of his remarks released ahead of his appearance in Tempe. He also will denounce the "MAGA movement," a reference to supporters of former President Donald Trump, the front-runner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. From Gettysburg to my inaugural address, to the anniversary of the January 6th insurrection, to Independence Hall in Philadelphia, and Union Station in Washington, Ive spoken about the danger of election denialism and political violence and the battle for the soul of America," Biden will say according to the White House excerpts. Now today in Phoenix, Arizona, at an institute devoted to the defense of democracy named in honor of a true patriot, Im here to speak about another threat to our democracy that we too often ignore: the threat to our institutions, to our Constitution itself, and the very character of our nation. Biden is in Arizona to salute the service of his late friend and former colleague Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz. The creation of a new McCain Library at Arizona State University was announced earlier Thursday. I have come to honor the McCain Institute and Library because they are home to a proud Republican who put country first. Our commitment should be no less because democracy should unite all Americans regardless of political affiliation," Biden says in the written remarks. But there is something dangerous happening in America. There is an extremist movement that does not share the basic beliefs of our democracy. The MAGA Movement. Not every Republican not even the majority of Republicans adhere to the extremist MAGA ideology. I know because Ive been able to work with Republicans my whole career. But there is no question that todays Republican Party is driven and intimidated by MAGA extremists. Their extreme agenda, if carried out, would fundamentally alter the institutions of American Democracy as we know it. Dan Nowicki Biden to create library in Arizona honoring John McCain As he pays tribute to John McCain on Thursday, President Biden will also announce new federal funds being directed to build the McCain Library, which the White House described as a new multi-purpose facility to provide education, work, and health monitoring programs to underserved communities in the state. The money comes from a massive $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package passed in the early months of Bidens presidency, and the project is in partnership with the with the McCain Institute and Arizona State University. The late senators wife, Cindy McCain, other members of their family, Gov. Katie Hobbs, and the states representatives on Capitol Hill will be at the event commemorating McCain, whose intolerance for the abuse of power and faith in America sets a powerful example to live by, the White House said. A senior White House official, who insisted on anonymity to preview Biden's Thursday remarks, said his Arizona address will highlight the importance of Americas institutions in preserving our democracy and the need for constant loyalty to the U.S. Constitution. Biden's appearance at the center that honors McCain will also tie into the theme, with the president set to urge Americans to never walk away from the sacrifices generations of Americans have made to defend our democracy. Associated Press Biden uses John McCain image in new television campaign ad The late Sen. John McCain appears momentarily in a new campaign ad for President Joe Biden emphasizing bipartisanship and cites several legislative achievements that included Arizona help. The 60-second spot, dubbed The Way, is slated to run on national cable TV and local newscasts in seven swing states. It comes as Biden pays tribute to McCain, R-Ariz., during an event in Tempe. The ad opens with a montage of photos of Biden with former President Ronald Reagan, former Secretaries of State Colin Powell and Condoleezza Rice, and a picture with McCain on the set of Meet the Press. The narrator notes, There was a time in America when we expected leaders to put people over politics, when, instead of shouting, people from different parties talked and listened. It goes on to argue that Biden holds firm to that political style and claims hes signed hundreds of bipartisan laws, though many are low-profile items, such as renaming post offices. But it does single out several high-profile laws that had a strong Arizona nexus. It mentions the national infrastructure law, alludes to the high-tech manufacturing law and to strengthen gun safety. Biden in Arizona: President Biden is honoring John McCain in Arizona. Here's why All were, as the ad notes, bipartisan, and Arizonas senators played significant roles in shaping them. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, I-Ariz., was a Democrat when she and Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, rescued an infrastructure bill that had languished after direct talks between the White House and Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va. Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., had a major hand in an advanced manufacturing law that subsidizes semiconductor chip production in the U.S. Seventeen Republicans wound up supporting the bill, which was led by Sens. Mark Warner, D-Va., and John Cornyn, R-Texas. Sinema helped convene bipartisan talks after a massacre at a Texas elementary school that directly led to an infusion of funding for mental health services and slowed gun purchases for younger adults. Kelly, who has long been a central figure on gun-control issues, was involved in the group that found rare, bipartisan support on firearms. The ad is scheduled to run in Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.Americans expect their elected officials to be their voice in Washington and get big things done to make their lives better, said Kevin Munoz, a spokesman for the Biden campaign. That is exactly what Joe Biden has done throughout his time in public service. President Biden has shown that we can get big things done when we put aside our differences for the American people, and hes running to finish the job and continue being a president for all Americans. Ronald J. Hansen Biden greeted by Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego at airport After departing Air Force One at 8:15 p.m., President Joe Biden was briefly greeted by Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego before entering the presidential motorcade. The presidential motorcade by 8:23 p.m. had completely departed the Lincoln J. Ragsdale Executive Tower tarmac at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Biden is set to appear Thursday at Tempe Center for the Arts in Tempe, Arizona. Morgan Fischer Air Force One lands in Phoenix, with president aboard At 8:05 p.m., President Joe Biden landed in Air Force One at the Lincoln J. Ragsdale executive terminal of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport under light clouds but clear skies. His arrival in Phoenix comes in advance of a speech in memory of the late U.S. Sen. John McCain and democracy Thursday morning at Tempe Center for the Arts. Morgan Fischer Watch out for these downtown Phoenix road, light-rail closures Phoenix residents can expect road and travel closures because of President Joe Biden's expected arrival in Arizona on Wednesday, Sept. 27, ahead of a speech to honor John McCain, according to a news release from Downtown Phoenix. Here's what residents can look out for as they begin their daily commute. Road closures Downtown Phoenix said the following roadways will be impacted now until Thursday, Sept. 28, at 3 p.m. and that business and pedestrian access will be maintained in the area. Northbound Central Avenue closed at Adams Street. Northbound First Street closed just north of Washington Street. Southbound First Street closed at Van Buren Street. Monroe Street closed between Second Street and First Avenue. Light rail closures Phoenix residents using downtown transit should plan delays, according to Valley Metro. Riders should track track light rail vehicles on the Valley Metro app. From Wednesday, Sept. 27, at 12:15 p.m., to Thursday, Sept. 28, at 3 p.m., the light rail service will experience closures. Valley Metro said the following Westbound stations in downtown Phoenix are closed: Third Street/ Washington, Washington/Central Avenue and Van Buren/Central Avenue. Abigail Celaya State Senate President Warren Petersen criticizes Biden over border Ahead of President Joe Bidens stop in Arizona this week, Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen, R-Gilbert, lashed out at the president for not securing the Mexican border. Like with other visits Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have made, the state Republican Party is criticizing the administration for ignoring illegal border crossings while focusing on other issues, in this case, a campaign event. The crisis on Arizonas southern border is out of control, putting our citizens, communities and law enforcement in grave danger, Petersen said in a video posted to social media. August border encounters reached more than 322,000. That's the highest monthly total in U.S. history!! As Joe Biden visits Arizona this week, Senate President @votewarren has a message for him: DO YOUR JOB. WAKE UP. GO VISIT THE BORDER. pic.twitter.com/Dg0Gwy2ovD AZSenateRepublicans (@AZSenateGOP) September 27, 2023 He said the president was out of touch with everyday Americans, and said that federal Border Patrol agents are releasing detainees into communities, something that has even drawn scorn recently as far away as New York City, where Mayor Eric Adams said earlier this month the issue would destroy the city. "Every single week we have human smugglers, murderers, rapists, drug dealers, child sex traffickers and terrorists entering our state from the southern border, Petersen said. Ryan Randazzo Biden's second trip to Arizona in less than two months President Joe Biden was in Arizona just last month to designate about 1,562 square miles near the Grand Canyon as a national monument. State Republicans in Arizona announced a plan to sue the administration over that move. The goal, according to the administration, is to preserve Native American cultural sites and protect the region from new uranium mining. The monument is called Baaj Nwaavjo Itah Kukveni-Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument. Its name comes from the Havasupai words baaj nwaavjo for where Indigenous peoples roam, and the Hopi words itah kukveny for our ancestral footprints. It includes thousands of sites sacred to the Havasupai, Hopi, Hualapai, Paiute, Navajo, Yavapai-Apache, Zuni and Colorado River Indian Tribes. The Biden administration also announced it would spend $44 million to strengthen climate resilience across the national parks system. Arizona's Saguaro National Park will receive money to restore desert habitats by removing buffelgrass, an invasive plant species that displaces native plants and fuels destructive wildfires. Ryan Randazzo What is Joe Biden doing here? President Joe Biden will deliver remarks Thursday saluting the legacy and service of the late Sen. John McCain. McCain, R-Ariz., who was elected to two terms in the U.S. House of Representatives and six in the Senate, twice ran for president and died in 2018 from cancer while still in office. Biden is expected to discuss McCain and "the work we must do together to strengthen our democracy." Also Thursday, Biden will attend a fundraiser hosted by Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and Rep. Greg Stanton, D-Ariz., as he sets his sights on next years presidential election. Tickets for the event start at $3,300, and the location is only disclosed to attendees. Ryan Randazzo This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: President Joe Biden honors John McCain with library at ASU A popular Iraqi TikTok personality was shot dead on Monday in Baghdad, an Iraqi security source told CNN. Known on social media as Noor BM, 23-year-old Noor Alsaffar had over 370,000 followers collectively on Instagram and TikTok. Alsaffar mostly posted short videos showing dresses, hair and makeup styles, often dancing to music. Following news of the shooting, many posted comments lamenting Alsaffars death. Some others cheered it, celebrating the man who fired the shot. The Iraqi security source told CNN that an investigation has been opened, speaking on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to speak to the media. The deceased has been taken to the forensic department. Khaled Almehna, spokesperson for the Iraqi police, described the attack as a criminal incident on Tuesday, adding that he will provide important updates at a later time. The killing comes as Iraq cracks down on LGBTQ expression and moves to criminalize it in law. While being queer is not explicitly banned under current Iraqi legislation, LGBTQ people are often targeted under vague morality clauses in its penal code. Before the shooting, Alsaffar faced online abuse, as well as questions about sexuality and gender. In a 2020 interview on Iraqs Al Walaa channel, Alsaffar said: Im not transgender and Im not gay. I dont have other tendencies, Im only a cross-dresser and a model. Alsaffar identified as male who worked as a model and makeup artist. Alsaffar spoke in videos about facing threats on social media over choices of dressing. In a 2021 YouTube interview with Iraqi blogger Samir Jermani, Alsaffar said: Im cautious but not afraid in response to a question about the TikTokers appearance. The Iraqi LGBTQ rights group, IraQueer, posted about Alsaffars death, adding the hashtags #Transphobia and #MuderOfTransPeople on X, formerly known as Twitter. A new law has been proposed in the Iraqi parliament that explicitly criminalizes gay sex, transgender expression and other forms of LGBTQ conduct. If adopted, it would punish same-sex relations with the death penalty or life in prison, punish promoting homosexuality with a minimum sentence of seven years, and criminalize imitating women with up to a three-year sentence. Violence and discrimination against LGBTQ people in the country has increased noticeably in recent months, rights groups say. The country has seen protests, mostly by supporters of Shiite Muslim factions, burning the rainbow flag in response to recent Quran burnings in Sweden and Denmark. HRW says violence against LGBTQ people in Iraq has routinely been met with impunity. Iraqs media regulator in August banned the term homosexuality across all traditional and social media platforms, demanding that the term sexual deviance be used instead. Rights groups have decried growing crackdowns on LGBTQ communities in the Middle East, including what Human Rights Watch found to be digital targeting based on online activity. Online targeting is often followed by extreme punitive measures, including arbitrary detention and torture, the rights watchdog said in February after examining LGBTQ rights violations in Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Tunisia. CNNs Eyad Kourdi, Mostafa Salem and Celine Alkhaldi contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Health data is becoming a hot commodity for pharmaceutical companies, insurance providers, and healthcare systems looking to make savvier decisions. Bad calls, like a misdiagnosis, lead to hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths every year, according to separate research by Stanford and Johns Hopkins universities. Poor decisions also cost money. According to a 2019 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, up to $935 billion is wasted on overtreatment, administrative costs, and inconsistent pricing every year. A 2021 analysis by The New York Times found huge pricing variances between insurance providers. A colonoscopy, for instance, could run anywhere from $728 to $1,801. The Health Data Market is Growing Health data is plentiful, but not easy to access. Databases such as Athenahealth or Epic Systems are supposed to be interoperable, but that isnt always the case. Instead, human intermediaries relay information between patients, care providers, and insurance companies, often using old-school fax machines. But theres another source of data thats easier to access and analyze: user-generated health stats from smartwatches and mobile health apps. Whats more, advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning are now helping doctors diagnose better, or at least quicker. For instance, Temple Hospital in Philadelphia is using AI to scan and diagnose blood clots. With all these advances, MarketsandMarkets forecasts the health data market to double over the next five years, reaching $900 million by 2028. This boom presents three types of investment opportunities. Opportunity #1: Raw Data Collectors Several companies are creating data markets that empower not only big healthcare companies but individuals who opt to share their statistics. Evidation, for instance, incentivizes users to share anonymized information from wearables and fitness apps that track metrics like step count and sleep quality. Users can also participate in surveys about conditions such as seasonal flu symptoms or heart issues. In exchange, they earn points that can be cashed out or converted into a gift card. Story continues In 2022, fitness-tracking app company Sweatcoin launched its own cryptocurrency. Instead of just earning points for their data, people can now earn digital assets such as its native cryptocurrency, SWEAT, or collectibles in the form of non-fungible tokens (NFTs). JennyCo has gone further by creating a tokenized health data exchange where users can upload more detailed health information, like results from a DNA test kit. In return, they receive personalized AI-generated wellness insights and ownership rights to their data, stored on the blockchain. Users can opt to lease it anonymously to businesses or research institutes, and JennyCo generates revenue by facilitating these exchanges. Users can also mint NFTs to trade on a marketplace like OpenSea. (NFTs arent always pieces of digital art; they can verify ownership of any assets.) We think as data interoperabilitygains adoption this will continue to grow, says Jay Krishnan, a partner at McKinsey & Company. Some key considerations would be ensuring data security through technologies like tokenization, among others. If blockchain becomes more widely used in healthcare, this type of personalized data could be integrated with electronic health records. It could help solve privacy and security concerns by encrypting data, offering interoperability between different systems and end users, and giving people more of a say in how their information is used. Investors, in addition to the users, can trade cryptocurrencies and NFTs tied to health information, enabling individuals to invest in the data itself, not just the startup collecting it. If the model for personalized data ownership takes off, assets tied to that information may become more valuable down the road. Opportunity #2: Proprietary Data-Analysis Tools Collecting raw health data is an important first step. But its only valuable with the right analysis tools. Startups developing proprietary algorithms can unlock this value. We continue to see the primary orientation of new innovative companies as taking data and analytics and combining it with some type of service or offering to drive value, says Neha Patel, partner at McKinsey & Company. Clarify Health, for instance, provides both its own collected datasets and a comprehensive analytics tool. Its Clarify Atlas Program generates AI-powered predictions and clinical insights; and the recently launched generative AI tool Clara works with its datasets to process information quicker and more precisely. Big tech companies like Google and Amazon are also signaling their interest. Google was an early investor in the DNA testing kit company 23andMe and acquired the fitness tracking wearable company Fitbit in 2021. In the same year, it announced the launch of Google Cloud Healthcare Data Engine, a platform that enables enterprise-level analysis from a variety of sources. In 2021 Amazon Web Services launched Amazon HealthLake, a HIPAA-compliant cloud storage and analytics provider. Healthcare Monetization Market Growth Potential, Courtesy of MarketsandMarkets Investors can look for opportunities to partner with startups directly as angel investors or work with venture capital funds that are investing in these companies. For instance, Lux Capital started an ETF in 2022 that focuses on digital health companies. Opportunity #3: Big Healthcare Healthcare powerhouses such as pharmaceutical manufacturers and insurance providers are developing their own in-house data science capabilities. Such mature companies can offer a less-risky complement to investments in startups. Pharma companies, for example, can increase the efficacy of new drugs and get them to market quicker using so-called real-world health data to complement clinical trials and extrapolate results across an entire population. In 2017, AstraZeneca conducted its first real-world evidence study demonstrating the effectiveness of its type-2 diabetes treatments, Farxiga. On the provider side, artificial intelligence used in combination with electronic health records may reduce costs by as much as $360 billion a year, according to a 2023 report by McKinsey and Harvard University. For instance, the report found that employing AI in hospitals could save anywhere from $60 billion to $120 billion over the next five years, with 40% coming from reducing administrative costs. Take Risks into Account While new technologies promise to revolutionize healthcare, they still have a lot of weaknesses. AI can analyze far more data, far more quickly, than humans; but its also known to hallucinate and fabricate results. And Silicon Valley sometimes gets out of its depth. IBMs much-hyped Watson Health failed to provide good recommendations for oncologists because it didnt have enough data. It was sold in 2022 for $1 billionafter IBM spent more than $4 billion acquiring companies with medical training data. Blockchain promises to boost security and privacy while enabling greater interoperability between providers and patients. But blockchain-based solutions have yet to be implemented at scale and may not be as effective as promised. Security and privacy are also minefields. As it grows more valuable, health data becomes a prime target for hacks and breaches. In 2014, criminal hackers broke into Anthems servers, stealing up to 80 million records. This remains the worst health data breach in U.S. history. Health data collectors and handlers stress that personal information is anonymized. But the growing ability to analyze large datasets may undo that. In 2019, scientists in the United Kingdom and Belgium created an algorithm to re-identify individuals from anonymous data, including medical records. Matthew McCoy, assistant professor of medical ethics and health policy at the University of Pennsylvania, says that the average person isnt too keen on companies using their personal data. Those companies should have real processes in place, governance for ethics review, and for social impact assessment of what their products are doing, he says. Before investing in health data startups or even mature companies, perform your due diligence to ensure they have the right teams and policies to mitigate the many risks The post Should You Invest in the Booming Health Data Market? appeared first on Worth. Rep. Burgess Owens, R-Utah, speaks during the Sutherland Institutes 2023 Congressional Series at the University of Utah Hinckley Institute in Salt Lake City on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News Utah Republican Rep. Burgess Owens will serve as a key negotiator in the effort to merge House and Senate versions of the annual defense authorization bill. Owens was one of 25 conferees selected by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy from outside the House Armed Services Committee, which is represented by 20 of its members, to finalize the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2024. The position will give Owens a unique place at the table in coming weeks to influence the programs, projects and policies that will be implemented by the Department of Defense and other defense-related agencies in the coming year. As our nation faces escalating threats from foreign adversaries, our core responsibility in Congress is to deliver a national defense that stands as a global standard of strength, intelligence, and strategic foresight, Owens said in a statement Wednesday. I will work diligently alongside my colleagues to craft a National Defense Authorization Act that provides for the needs of our service members and their families, strengthens homeland defense, and counters the aggression of our adversaries, all while making my constituents in Utahs Fourth District and Americans across the nation proud. How will Owens influence the defense authorization bill? Owens represents Utahs 4th Congressional District, which includes the western portions of Salt Lake and Utah counties, and all of Sanpete County. While the district does not have any military bases, it is home to Camp Williams, a Utah National Guard training site west of Lehi. One of Owens priorities for the FY2024 NDAA will be to secure the passage of the Retain Skilled Veterans Act, an Owens spokesperson said. The legislation, introduced by Rep. Blake Moore, of Utahs 1st Congressional District, aims to increase veteran hiring by permanently waiving the requirement that former servicemen must wait six months after their retirement to apply for certain Department of Defense positions. Moore has said the bill would make it easier for veterans to find employment and would be a boon for Utahs Hill Air Force Base, located near Clearfield within his district. The bill, which Owens co-sponsored, was included in the House version of the defense authorization bill passed in July, along with a number of culture war amendments that are unlikely to survive the House-Senate reconciliation process which Owens will soon be a part of. Related What are the NDAAs culture war amendments? Some of the measures least likely to garner support in the Democratic-led Senate include amendments repealing the Pentagons policy of reimbursing abortion-related travel costs, limiting the militarys insurance coverage of gender-transition treatments, and prohibiting the use of federal funds for military diversity, equity and inclusion activities. Owens has signaled his support for the controversial amendments, criticizing what he sees as a deterioration of military readiness under the Biden administration. In only three years, President (Joe) Biden has managed to tarnish our Armed Forces 248-year legacy of service by prioritizing identity politics and failing to stand up to our adversaries in Beijing, Tehran, and Moscow. This years Department of Defense priorities are clear: Taxpayer-funded abortions, DEI programs, and divisive Critical Race Theory, Owens told the Deseret News in July, shortly before the passage of the House NDAA for FY2024. In the reconciliation process, Owens will also push for the inclusion of an amendment that would reinstate service members who were fired for refusing COVID-19 vaccines. Owens sponsored a bill to the same effect in June. Jeopardizing the might and readiness of our U.S. Military, President Biden and his administration discharged more than 8,400 active-duty servicemen and women for choosing not to get the COVID-19 vaccine, Owens said in a statement about the bill. Despite signing Republicans repeal of the vaccine mandate for members of the U.S. armed forces, there is no plan to repay these men and women who were wrongfully fired. Whats next for the defense authorization bill? The 2,300-page, $870 billion House NDAA passed mostly along party lines in mid-July, with all of Utahs House members voting in favor. It will now enter a bicameral, bipartisan conference in which it and the Senate NDAA, of similar length and cost, must be synthesized into a final product that can pass both chambers before being signed by the president. The Senate bill includes the same 5.2% pay raise for service members and Department of Defense employees, as well as assistance for Ukraine and resources to counter China. However, it passed with more bipartisan support than the House version, as it excludes any culture war amendments. During the bicameral conference, constituents and other stakeholders will have an opportunity to influence additional provisions to be added or blocked from the final bill. Following the reconciliation process, the conference committee will produce a conference report containing the final legislative language, which will receive a final debate in both chambers but cannot receive any additional amendments. LAFAYETTE, Ind. The Indiana Economic Development Corp. released the initial results last week of the LEAP project regarding the first phase of aquifer testing along the Wabash River. The testing was done by INTERA, Inc., and the executive summary showcased that the Indiana Economic Development Corp. could install two collector wells at the site, which could sustainably produce more than 30 million gallons per day. Other model scenarios completed during initial testing suggest that a higher pumping rate could be sustainable, but the Indiana Economic Development Corp. cannot be certain until INTERA conducts more detailed testing to determine the upper bound of what can be pumped. A bald eagle fishes for food along the Wabash River, Friday, Feb. 24, 2023, in West Lafayette, Ind. The summary also notes that this aquifer-river system could potentially be used to manage similar systems across the state to improve regional water availability. The summary does note that results from these initial tests only apply to this specific site, although INTERA expects mapping of other sites will show similar results. The next step that INTERA wants to do is to conduct similar testing at a second site to determine a more thorough yield for the river-aquifer system. Indiana state Reps. Chris Campbell (District 26) and Sheila Klinker (District 27), Democrats whose districts include Lafayette and West Lafayette, stated their opposition to the initial testing conducted by the Indiana Economic Development Corp. Rep. Chris Campbell calls for more testing A finite natural resource, fresh water is vital for individual health, agricultural development and the local environment," said Campbell in the statement. "The Wabash River and its groundwater system is a symbol of our community, and it needs our protection. Yesterday, the IEDC released an executive summary containing its test results on the aquifer. It was commissioned by the IEDC, and the study was performed by INTERA the consulting firm they chose. They released an executive summary, not the official data, tests or results." Even though this is the first phase of the project, there needs to be more testing. The IEDC needs to examine the environmental and long-term impacts of the potential pipeline. The IEDC believes the initial results are promising but they do not predict the future impact. The public deserves public discussion and an independent, third-party study. Currently the Indiana Department of Natural Resources which would be tasked with monitoring a large transfer of water does not have adequate funding to oversee this massive, daily transfer. Without regulations, or an independent study, we don't have a greater understanding of the long-term effects. These initial studies cant predict the consequences of such a large transfer of water to another part of the state. Will Tippecanoe County have to compete with Central Indiana for water usage in our infrastructure, farms and wells in the future? Indianas water needs are complex; there are more questions that still need to be answered. What regulations are needed? An independent study would provide a greater understanding of the future. Should Tippecanoe County take a leap of faith? I want to see more studies and discussion. Sheila Klinker wants third-party study State Rep. Shelia Klinker (D-Lafayette) speaks to Lafayette city council about potentially creating new legislation to address the issues renters have been dealing with in Lafayette, at July's Lafayette City Council meeting, on Monday, July 10, 2023, in Lafayette, Ind. The Wabash River has been a long-standing symbol of the Hoosier spirit. Its featured in our state song, is important in our history and has been a vital part of the Lafayette Community. If the IEDC is going to do something with the river and its aquifers, the people need a deeper understanding of the consequences. After carefully reviewing the executive summary, we need more answers, said Klinker. Multiple local leaders and Purdue scientists have called for an independent, third-party study. An objective, independent study would provide the community with transparency and real results. Caution should always be our first instinct when it comes to natural resources, the well-being of our community and its future. Noe Padilla is a reporter for the Journal & Courier. Email him at Npadilla@jconline.com and follow him on Twitter at 1NoePadilla This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Reps. Chris Campbell and Sheila Klinker comment on LEAP project WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) Congressional Republicans held a remote hearing on crime in the United States Tuesday in Chicago where they placed blame on policies created by Democrats. During the hearing, those in attendance heard from Gianno Caldwell, a Fox News political analyst whose younger brother, Christian, was shot and killed last year in Chicago. Christian will never have the opportunity to go to college, Caldwell said. Shot down in the street by a stranger when a group of men stepped out of a black SUV and fired into a crowd. He alongside former police officers claimed that Democrats policies on crime have only added fuel to the fire. One officer who spoke, Carlos Yanez, retired after he was wounded in a 2021 shooting. Yanez was especially critical of Illinois decision to end cash bail and the city of Chicagos decision to restrict foot chases for law enforcement. Stop coddling criminals and hold them accountable, Yanez said. Among the congressional leaders at the hearing, Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) led the discussions. Innocent people in Chicago are victimized by a justice system that cares more about political correctness than punishing the criminals, he said. No Democrats were present at the hearing but several did make comments on them. Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) said that Republicans have no business being in Chicago as the country heads toward a government shutdown. Illinois Democratic Senator Dick Durbin also accused Republicans of using law enforcement as political pawns on social media. Last week, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said that the city is working with the White House to help tackle the root causes of gun violence. Mental health is a big deal for everyone we also have to make sure that were investing in people and were investing in our economy, Johnson said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. Filtering in a few at a time, residents had filled the James Carius Community Room in the Tazewell County Justice Center to capacity by the time Wednesdays Tazewell County Board meeting began. For the second straight month, the residents were there to convey their concerns about the Mount Simon Hub, a carbon capture and sequestration project that would place CO2 pipelines through sections of the county. More: CO2 pipeline proposal a cause for concern for Pekin area residents, officials Im concerned because I dont know the safety record of this company, said Lisa Linton of Pekin. I live in that area. My grandkids go to Rankin School, and the pipelines supposed to run right behind that school. I dont know how much danger theyre going to be in. Tazewell County residents turned up early and in numbers to express their opposition to a proposed CO2 pipeline at Wednesday's Tazewell County Board meeting. While several residents voiced their opposition to the project during the meetings public comment section, resistance to the pipeline was not unanimous. We have close to 250 members living in Tazewell County and 1,400 members in central Illinois, said Luke Ogan, International Union of Operating Engineers Local 649 business representative. We support this project. Wolf Carbon Solutions has signed a letter of intent saying they will do this project 100 % union, and we are highly trained and highly skilled at installing and maintaining pipelines safely. Wolf Carbon Solutions spokespersons Patrick Brierly and Tracey McDaneld were on hand to give a presentation about the Mount Simon Hub. Crystal Faux of Green Valley protests a proposed CO2 pipeline outside of the Tazewell County Justice Center This article originally appeared on Pekin Daily Times: Residents continue voicing concern over proposed pipleine near Pekin Russia's ongoing war with Ukraine has upended the security situation in Europe. In response, European countries, especially those in Eastern Europe, are buying more weapons. Two of Ukraine's neighbors, Poland and Romania, are spending big on jets, tanks, and artillery. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has upended European security, driving countries there to plan once again for the possibility of a major land war. Those European countries have transferred billions of dollars' worth of military hardware to Ukraine, and now they are seeking to rebuild their own stocks. Poland and Romania both border Ukraine and have been affected by the war. In addition to receiving an influx of Ukrainians fleeing the fighting, both countries have seen errant missiles and drones land in their territory, raising tensions and fears of a wider conflict. Warsaw and Bucharest have also provided Ukraine with valuable weaponry, from artillery to fighter jets, and they are now stepping up their own arms purchases. Spending spree US soldiers fire M142 HIMARS rockets during an exercise in Poland in June 2017. US Army/Markus Rauchenberger Based on disclosed weapon transfers, Poland is Europe's second biggest contributor of military aid to Ukraine, sending Kyiv large quantities of Soviet-era arms. Warsaw is now replacing that hardware with modern Western weapons, expanding its arsenal in the process. In September, Warsaw announced the purchase of 486 HIMARS launchers along with 45 ATACMS missiles and other rockets and warheads for $10 billion. Poland already bought 20 HIMARS systems in 2019, and it will reportedly start receiving the new batch in 2025. HIMARS has been praised from their effectiveness in Ukraine and their ability to fire and quickly relocate to avoid counter-artillery fire. ATACMS have a range of 190 miles and can be fired from HIMARS launchers. Poland also announced in September a $2 billion purchase of several hundred Naval Strike Missiles from Norway. NSMs have a range of about 115 miles and are primarily designed to target ships but can also be used against land targets. Poland will use them to bolster its defenses against Russian warships, mainly from the Baltic Fleet in neighboring Kaliningrad. Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak, center, at a military camp near Poland's border with Belarus on August 12. Attila Husejnow/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images Poland will also buy 48 Patriot missile launchers and 12 Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensors. LTAMDS, which is still in its prototype phase, will be the US Army's next missile-defense radar; Poland is the first international buyer. The US State Department has approved Poland's request to buy 96 US-made AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and a large complement of missiles for $14 billion. The 96 Apaches will make Poland the largest operator of the helicopter after the US. Warsaw is reinforcing its ground forces with 366 Abrams main battle tanks, 250 of which are the advanced M1A2 variant. (Last year, Poland opened an Abrams training academy for crews accustomed to using Soviet-designed tanks.) Poland will receive its first Abrams this year to replace the Soviet-era tanks it has sent to Ukraine. Poland is not only buying arms from NATO countries. In July 2022, it announced a massive $14.5 billion purchase of 1,000 K2 Black Panther tanks, nearly 700 K-9 self-propelled howitzers, and 48 FA-50 combat aircraft from South Korea. The decision to buy South Korean arms was based on the fast delivery times promised by Seoul the first FA-50 aircraft has already joined the Polish Air Force and on Poland's need to diversify its supply chains in case of a conflict, the Polish defense minister said at the time. The Polish Air Force will also be strengthened with 32 F-35A stealth jets that are expected to start arriving in 2024. To facilitate Warsaw's arms purchases, Washington announced this week that it will extend it a $2 billion loan. A Romanian MIG-21 takes off for its last flight on May 15. DANIEL MIHAILESCU/AFP via Getty Images Romania is also making major arms purchases to modernize and improve its ground and air forces. In May, it retired its fleet of MiG-21s, leaving its air force with only 17 F-16 jets. It is now awaiting delivery of 32 F-16s from Norway. The F-16 will be a transition platform for Romania's air force as it awaits F-35 stealth jets. Bucharest plans to purchase 32 F-35s for $6.5 billion in 2024 and will reportedly buy another 16 in the future. Romania also plans to buy 54 US-made M1A2 Abrams tanks for $1.1 billion and is seeking to purchase 150 Swiss-made Piranha 5 armored personnel carriers. Romania shares a border with Ukraine along the Danube River, where Russian attacks on Ukrainian ports have come close to Romanian territory. Bucharest has already purchased Naval Strike Missiles to defend its Black Sea coast, and tensions there may lead it to buy more naval hardware in the future. (In August, it canceled a deal to buy four French corvettes, saying the manufacturers failed to sign the contract on time.) The Romanian government also sees South Korea as a potential supplier. According to local media, Bucharest wants to buy an additional 300 main battle tanks and a number of howitzers and is looking at the K2 Black Panther tank and K-9 howitzer as its main options. Increased demand Romanian tanks in a National Day military parade in Bucharest on December 1, 2022. DANIEL MIHAILESCU/AFP via Getty Images In response to Russia's aggression, defense budgets are going up across Europe, with nearly all NATO members in Eastern Europe increasing their defense spending from last year. Poland has been NATO's biggest spender in 2023 with 3.9% of its GDP going to defense, which is almost double the alliance's 2%-of-GDP target and up from 2.4% in 2022. Romania has also increased its defense spending from slightly below 2% in 2022 to 2.5% this year. Eastern Europe's arms industry has also been strengthened by the new demand. Arms manufacturers in Poland, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic are increasing production capacity, and Romania plans to overhaul its state defense industry to keep up with incoming orders. A large share of that increased production, which includes older models and new designs, will go to Ukraine and to replenish the arsenals of the countries aiding Kyiv. The firms that are ramping up output are also looking for new customers, however. "Taking into account the realities of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the visible attitude of many countries aimed at increased spending in the field of defense budgets, there is a real chance to enter new markets and increase export revenues in the coming years," the CEO of Poland's state-run PGZ, which controls dozens of arms makers, told Reuters late last year. Constantine Atlamazoglou works on transatlantic and European security. He holds a master's degree in security studies and European affairs from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. You can contact him on LinkedIn and follow him on Twitter. Read the original article on Business Insider Cory Booker gave an impassioned defense of Bob Menendez's character during a senators' lunch. "You gotta hate the sin, but love the sinner," said Booker, per two sources familiar with the discussion. Most Senate Democrats, including Booker, have already called for Menendez to resign. Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey gave an impassioned defense of Sen. Bob Menendez's character during a closed-door lunch with other Democratic senators on Wednesday, according to four sources familiar with the meeting. "You gotta hate the sin, but love the sinner," Booker told his colleagues of his newly-indicted home state colleague, according to two of those sources. While Booker remained firm in his position that Menendez should resign, he implored his colleagues to show compassion for the senator during what's certain to be a dark period in his life, according to three sources. Those remarks were met with an awkward silence, according to two of the sources. The vast majority of the Democratic caucus has publicly called for the embattled senator to resign, arguing that despite being innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, he has broken the public trust. Menendez was in New York City on Wednesday, where he pleaded not guilty during the first hearing in his case. He stands accused of accepting bribes in exchange for enriching a trio of New Jersey businessmen and corruptly assisting the government of Egypt. Booker's office declined to comment for this story. In his Tuesday statement calling on Menendez to resign, Booker offered high praise for his colleague. "I've had more professional experiences with him than most others, and I've witnessed his extraordinary work and boundless work ethic," Booker said in the statement. "I've consistently found Senator Menendez to be intellectually gifted, tough, passionate, and deeply empathic. We have developed a working relationship and a friendship that I value and believe has furthered our effectiveness in serving New Jersey." Sen. Cory Booker (@SenBooker) September 26, 2023 And Booker has long been close to Menendez, once proclaiming himself the "the Robin to his Batman." He notably stood by Menendez during his previous corruption scandal, testifying as a character witness for the senator at a trial in 2017. Yet when the one-time 2020 presidential candidate became the 10th senator to call for Menendez to step aside on Tuesday, it opened the floodgates for 20 more Democratic senators to do the same. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who's also known Menendez for decades, has so far declined to call for Menendez to resign. He told reporters following the lunch on Wednesday that he would wait until the New Jersey Democrat had the opportunity to address senators the following day. Read the original article on Business Insider SHEBOYGAN - During the great immigrant wave to Wisconsin in the 1840s, Heinrich Bodenstab moved his family to the United States in 1846 and he would eventually have a connection with cheese in Sheboygan County. The family immigrated initially to Albany, New York, but soon headed west to Wisconsin. Bodenstab, who ran a medical practice in the town of Herman, purchased a large plat of farmland just outside of what today is Howards Grove. Bodenstab, married to Annette (nee Jasper), had five children. Two of his sons, Frederic and a younger son Julius, farmed the property prior to the Civil War. Julius, who was born in 1834, joined the Union Army, serving first in the Wisconsin Infantry, 27th Regiment, Company C, later transferring to Company I. After leaving the Union Army in August 1865, he returned to the family farm, purchasing 160 acres from his father's holdings, according to the Sheboygan County Historical Museum. A cheesemaking vat inside the Julius Bodenstab Cheese Factory building, Tuesday, September 26, 2023, on the Sheboygan County Historical Museum campus, in Sheboygan, Wis. Around 1867, according to tax records, a cheese factory building was likely built on the property, where Julius began to produce cheese. The facility was situated well, as the delivery door was a few feet away from the road. The building was entirely dedicated to cheesemaking, as the house appears to have been located directly next door. Double plaster and lathe walls on the two-story portion and brick-lined walls on the one-story portion helped insulate the building from temperature swings. The exterior of the Julius Bodenstab Cheese Factory as it appears, Tuesday, September 26, 2023, on the campus of the Sheboygan County Historical Museum. He would continue to run the farm and produce cheese until selling the farm and factory to Henry Fischer around 1875. It was reported that Fischer would continue cheese production for a period of time. The property remained a well-regarded farm in the area. Fischer's son would eventually take over the farm, running it until 1946 when Alfred Reinemann bought the farm. Bodenstab continued to live in the area for about 12 years after selling the property and factory. He couldn't resist cheese, it seems, because in 1878, he established yet another cheese factory. The facility, known as the Howards Grove Cheese Factory, was one-half mile east of his original facility. Sheboygan history: Sheboygan storefront, today home to Black Pig restaurant, was once occupied by Montgomery Ward Cheese boxes and cheese cloth on display at the Julius Bodenstab Cheese Factory, Tuesday, September 26, 2023, on the campus of the Sheboygan County Historical Museum, in Sheboygan, Wis. Bodenstab would sell that factory to Jacob Schumacher in 1881. He would remain in the area until he was appointed the Postmaster of Franklin in 1885. By the early 1890s, he would relocate to Milwaukee. Juliuis Bodenstab would die in 1916 at the age of 82. It wasn't uncommon to hear of several cheese factories in a small area. At the turn of the 20th century, hundreds of little cheese factories dotted the Sheboygan County landscape. In the early years of Wisconsin's agriculture, cheesemaking was a sideline for many farmers because crops were deemed more important. Unforeseen circumstances that included weather and pests changed that direction in Wisconsin. More Sheboygan history: Sheboygan's first three mayors, all born in eastern states, led the fledgling city In 1988, the Julius Bodenstab Cheese Factory made its journey from Howards Grove to the Campus of the Sheboygan County Historical Museum where today its role is to educate people about the history of cheesemaking. In 1988, the Bodenstab Cheese Factory was donated to the Sheboygan County Historical Society. The building was moved in its entirety from the original location on the corner of county Highway A, just west of Howards Grove, to the museum facility that year. After it arrived, the foundation was rebuilt and the building was restored. The building was dedicated July 10, 1989. According to Museum Director Travis Gross, the building in recent years has seen repairs and renovations to help bring the building's past to life. Today, the Bodenstab Cheese Factory continues to educate visitors of early cheesemaking in Wisconsin. To see a virtual reality image of the inside of the factory, click here. Gary C. Klein can be reached at 920-453-5149 or gklein@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @leicaman99. This article originally appeared on Sheboygan Press: Sheboygan County cheesemaking shaped by German Bodenstab family Key Insights Abbott Laboratories' estimated fair value is US$130 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity Abbott Laboratories' US$95.53 share price signals that it might be 26% undervalued The US$124 analyst price target for ABT is 4.7% less than our estimate of fair value In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT) by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. We will use the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model on this occasion. Believe it or not, it's not too difficult to follow, as you'll see from our example! We generally believe that a company's value is the present value of all of the cash it will generate in the future. However, a DCF is just one valuation metric among many, and it is not without flaws. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model. Check out our latest analysis for Abbott Laboratories Crunching The Numbers We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. In the first stage we need to estimate the cash flows to the business over the next ten years. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars: Story continues 10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF ($, Millions) US$8.55b US$8.81b US$9.57b US$10.5b US$11.1b US$11.6b US$12.0b US$12.4b US$12.8b US$13.1b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x5 Analyst x4 Analyst x2 Analyst x2 Est @ 5.55% Est @ 4.53% Est @ 3.82% Est @ 3.32% Est @ 2.97% Est @ 2.72% Present Value ($, Millions) Discounted @ 6.8% US$8.0k US$7.7k US$7.9k US$8.1k US$8.0k US$7.8k US$7.6k US$7.3k US$7.1k US$6.8k ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = US$76b After calculating the present value of future cash flows in the initial 10-year period, we need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all future cash flows beyond the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (2.2%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 6.8%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033 (1 + g) (r g) = US$13b (1 + 2.2%) (6.8% 2.2%) = US$288b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= US$288b ( 1 + 6.8%)10= US$149b 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$225b. 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$95.5, the company appears a touch undervalued at a 26% 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 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 Abbott Laboratories as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 6.8%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.931. 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 Abbott Laboratories Strength Debt is not viewed as a risk. Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows. Weakness Earnings declined over the past year. Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Medical Equipment market. Opportunity Annual earnings are forecast to grow for the next 3 years. Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value. Threat Annual earnings are forecast to grow slower than the American market. 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. Rather it should be seen as a guide to "what assumptions need to be true for this stock to be under/overvalued?" For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. Can we work out why the company is trading at a discount to intrinsic value? For Abbott Laboratories, we've compiled three relevant elements you should assess: Risks: Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 3 warning signs with Abbott Laboratories , and understanding these should be part of your investment process. Management:Have insiders been ramping up their shares to take advantage of the market's sentiment for ABT's future outlook? Check out our management and board analysis with insights on CEO compensation and governance factors. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered! PS. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the 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. Ten men, primarily from Cape Cod, who are alleged to have solicited sex from undercover police officers posing as escorts online were arrested Tuesday during a sting operation. Each man faced a charge of one count of paying for sexual conduct, according to a Barnstable Police Department press release. Arrested were Jonathan Cutler, 44, of South Yarmouth; Paul Wickles, 52, of Hyannis; Gary Soares, 40, of New Bedford; Peter Bornstein, 58, of Brewster; Calmore Plummer, 47, of Hyannis; Steven Hamilton, 57, of Chatham; John Blackledge, 44, of East Sandwich; Peter Macleod, 63, of Sandwich; George Wheeler, 61, of East Falmouth; and Jose Reyes, 31, of Marstons Mills. The individuals were to be arraigned in Barnstable District Court on the day of their arrest, Tuesday, or the next day. As part of the sting operation, undercover officers created sex advertisements online, according to a Barnstable police report. Ten individuals responded to the advertisements and held text and phone conversations with undercover police, according to the police report. Each person arrived at an agreed upon location, where they were expecting to pay for a range of sexual services, the police said in the report. At the time of their arrival, they were met by arrest teams and arrested. The operation was a coordinated mission between Barnstable police, Barnstable County Sheriff's Office, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations, and Massachusetts State Police. On Thursday, Robert Galibois, Cape and Islands District Attorney, said he could not comment on the arrests because they are part of an ongoing investigation. Rachael Devaney writes about community and culture. Reach her at rdevaney@capecodonline.com. Follow her on Twitter: @RachaelDevaney. Thanks to our subscribers, who help make this coverage possible. If you are not a subscriber, please consider supporting quality local journalism with a Cape Cod Times subscription. Here are our subscription plans. This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: Sex solicitation sting operation leads to 10 arrests on Cape Cod Donald Trump says he will not try to have his Georgia election interference case moved from state to federal court. Lawyers for the former president notified a Fulton County court that he would not seek to switch the location of the sweeping Rico case in which he and 18 others are charged. The move came three weeks after Mr Trumps former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows had his bid to move his case to federal court denied by a judge. Mr Trump and all of the other defendants, including former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani, have pleaded not guilty to charges that they plotted to overturn the results of the 2020 election in the state. Mr Trump faces 13 felony charges in the Rico case. His filing on Thursday stated that his decision came down to his well-founded confidence that this Honorable Court intends to fully and completely protect his constitutional right to a fair trial and guarantee him due process of law throughout the prosecution of his case in the Superior Court of Fulton County, Georgia. The court filing added: President Trump now notifies the Court that he will NOT be seeking to remove his case to federal court. Mr Trump, who is the first and only former or sitting president to be criminally charged, faces a total of 91 felony counts across his four criminal indictments by state and federal prosecutors. Former President Donald Trump is shown in a police booking mugshot released by the Fulton County Sheriffs Office (via REUTERS) Special Counsel Jack Smith has charged him with four criminal counts over his efforts to stay in power after the 2020 election. These include a conspiracy to violate civil rights, a conspiracy to defraud the government, the corrupt obstruction of an official proceeding and a conspiracy to carry out such obstruction. US District Judge Tanya Chutkan has set a 4 March trial date, the day before the Super Tuesday primaries. Mr Trump also faces 40 federal felony charges with Mr Smith accusing him of illegally hoarding classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida after leaving the White House. That case is expected to go to trial in May 2024. And he has been accused in New York City of falsifying business records in connection with a $130,000 hush money payment to porn actor Stormy Daniels in the run-up to the 2016 election. Mr Trump was indicted in March and is expected to go to trial on 25 March 2024. He has pleaded not guilty to every charge in each case and has accused prosecutors of election interference and an attempt to derail his 2024 run for a second term in the Oval Office. Ukraine's air force shot down 34 Russian drones in an overnight attack, officials said. They were all Iranian-made Shahed drones, which Russia has used successfully in previous strikes. Russia is increasing its supply of one-way attack drones, but Ukraine has also been receiving better air defenses. Russia has been increasing its supply of one-way attack drones, acquiring them from Iran but also making them at home. Ukraine has also been bolstering its air defenses though with the help of Western aid. The drones Russia uses are sometimes called exploding drones because they crash into a target and detonate on impact. They have been used to devastating effect in Ukraine, even if many of the drones are shot down before they reach their target. Russia has used the Shahed-136 drones in a series of destructive attacks on Ukrainian cities in the last year. In one attack, Shahed-136 drones struck two energy facilities in Odesa, leaving 1.5 million people in Ukraine without power for several days. Again, not all drones make it through though. Ukraine's air force said on Thursday that their air defenses shot down 34 of 44 drones all of which were either Shahed-136s or Shahed-131s launched by Russia in an overnight attack on southern and central Ukraine. The attacks resulted in no casualties and no major damage. This defensive win comes almost two months after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said new air defense systems from the United States and Germany were yielding "significant results." Russia is working to produce thousands of cheaper, domestic-made versions of the Shahed-136. One expert previously told Insider that as Russia is trying to grow its fleet of drones, attacks could grow in size and possibly intensity into the winter, potentially straining Ukraine's improved air-defense capability. "Regardless of what we see in terms of tactical changes, the Russians will likely intensify the current level of drone strikes that they're doing against Ukraine in the winter," George Barros, a Russia analyst at the Institute for the Study of War, a Washington-based think tank, said. Read the original article on Business Insider Senator Bob Menendez of New Jersey and his wife, Nadine Arslanian Menendez, were indicted on federal bribery charges last Friday. Since then, numerous Democratic leaders have called for Menendezs resignation. Those urging Menendez to step down include New Jersey governor Phil Murphy , the other New Jersey Senator Cory Booker, and (as of this writing) some 27 other Democratic Senatorsmore than half the caucus. The contrast with the Republican response to Donald Trump s indictments is stark. But theres also a marked contrast with Republican responses to the indictment of Menendez himself. Usually its easy to highlight and condemn the other partys corruption. But the GOP has been strangely hesitant to call for Menendezs resignation. Thats because the GOP is increasingly defined by its belief that those in power should have blanket impunity, and by its opposition to holding elected officials accountable. This is not the first bribery charge Mendendez has faced. In 2015, he was indicted for allegedly receiving bribes from donor Salomon Melgen, a Florida ophthalmologist. The prosecution ended in a mistrial in 2017. While there was grassroots opposition to Menendez, most Democratic leaders continued to support him, and he won his reelection bid in 2018. This time is different in large part because the bribery charges are both clearer and more spectacular. Menendez is accused of using his political influence to help several businesses in exchange for bribes. The indictment also says that Menendez, who is chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, was given bribes in return for promoting the interests of the Egyptian government. When agents searched Menendezs home, they found half a million dollars in cash and literal bars of gold. The accusation that Menendez is taking bribes from foreign nations is extremely serious, and a potential threat to national security. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, the first Senator to call for Menendezs resignation, said, its not a close call and if you were looking for the most incriminating kinds of evidence, nobody could even come up with gold bars in a mattress. Fetterman and an increasing roll of Democrats may see it as a close call. But Republicans have been less forthright. Not a single Republican has called for Menendezs resignation, and several of them have defended him. Florida Senator Marco Rubio, for example, said that Menendez shouldnt resign because in America guilt is decided by a jury, not politicians in fear of their party losing a Senate seat. Senator Tom Cotton of Alabama defended Menendez on the grounds that the Department of Justice has a troubling record of failure and corruption in cases around public figures. Cotton singled out former President Donald Trump as someone who DOJ had unfairly prosecuted. Cottons comparison of Menendez to Donald Trump suggests one obvious reason that the GOP is leery of calling for Menendezs resignation. Trump has, of course, now been indicted four times, and faces 91 criminal charges. Those charges are related to hush money payments to cover up an affair, to improper handling of classified documents; election interference in Georgia, to federal efforts to overthrow the 2024 election. Republicans have responded to these indictments not by condemning Trump, but by claiming without evidence that the Department of Justice and the FBI are corrupt and are targeting Trump as a political ploy. If Republicans said Trumps DOJ indictments were meaningless, while Menendezs DOJ indictments were serious, they would look inconsistent and hypocritical. The thing is, Republicans arent generally that worried about being inconsistent or hypocritical. GOP politicians have cheerfully taken credit for infrastructure projects they voted against, for example. Republicans have gone all in on attacking President Joe Bidens son for influence peddling, though hes never been a government official, while ignoring massive red flags around Trump son-in-law Jared Kushners dealings with the Saudis while he was a White House official. The GOP embraces double standards when its to their partisan advantage. So why not in the case of Menendez? Instead of arguing that Menendez is persecuted like Trump, Cotton and Rubio could say something like, Look at the disgusting things Democrats do! And yet they dare impugn our glorious leader. The shame! The shame! Instead, though, the Republicans seem determined to ignore Menendez, or to actually defend him. Corruption is an assertion of impunity and hierarchy; when you use your office to enrich yourself, youre saying that you are more important than those who voted for you, and that you are entitled to wealth and power without accountability. Thats a message the GOP finds congenial. The Trump GOP increasingly embraces the idea that the powerful should be allowed to do whatever they want, and that questioning them is disqualifying presumption. When Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh was accused of sexual assault, the GOP rallied behind him, though they could easily have found and confirmed another candidate instead. Trump saw the presidency as his by right and framed all voters who cast ballots against him in 2020 as illegitimate. The GOP is increasingly pushing no-fault divorce, in an effort to trap women in marriages and restore male prerogatives. The GOP loves traditional hierarchies and impunity for traditional hierarchs. And nothing says impunity quite like a politician chuckling as he stuffs a bunch of gold bars in a sack. The GOP doesnt want to hold Menendez accountable because their party is the party of refusing to hold the powerful accountable. When a Democrat betrays his constituents, the Republicans can barely restrain themselves from making him an honorary member of the GOP. Clare Runacres faced her then-boyfriend and told him the grim news: Her cancer had returned, and it had spread. "I had an advanced, aggressive cancer, and the chances of survival were low," said Runacres, who lives in London. Subscribe to The Post Most newsletter for the most important and interesting stories from The Washington Post. Mike Ramsden - whom she had been dating for several years - decided to propose. "I just knew I wanted to be with her, no matter the circumstances," Ramsden said. "That's what you do when you're in love with somebody and you're committed." When the couple was on vacation together in Croatia about a month after they got the news, he popped the question. Runacres did not expect it. "I was blown away," recalled Runacres, a journalist at BBC Radio 2. "I also felt very sorry for him that he wanted to tie his life to mine, which I felt might be a very short and painful journey," she added. Runacres was first diagnosed with cancer as a 20-year-old college student. She had surgery to remove a tumor, though her doctors told her there was not a treatment to prevent the cancer from spreading. "Chemo and radiotherapy doesn't work on the cancer," she said. "You just have to hope it doesn't spread, which for most people, it does." Nine years later, when she was 29, the cancer came back. Her doctors told her that the majority of patients with her diagnosis would die within six months. "Basically, I was planning my funeral when I was planning my wedding," she said. Runacres requested that The Washington Post not publicly share the specifics of her diagnosis or type of cancer, saying she believes comparing cancer cases can sometimes cause more harm than good, since each case is unique. "I - like everyone diagnosed - have hunted out advice and looked at all sorts of alternative treatments. Most are a quick way for people to make money off sick people's pain and offer dangerously false hope. I don't want to lead people down any paths," she said. "I'm often asked what I 'did.' I don't have the answer to how I have survived so long with my cancer," she continued. "My diagnosis is intensely personal. I don't want it or the actions I took afterwards or since to be scrutinized. I don't want to be responsible for what actions people with my cancer take." After Runacres and Ramsden got engaged in April 2003, they set a wedding date for September that year. "We didn't think she had long," said Ramsden. "Life sped up." "When you are in an environment of cancer, you think that tomorrow is often out of reach, so you just live with the today," Runacres said. "Mike decided that he just wanted to live with my today, and that was enough." On a sunny September day, they tied the knot in Sussex. While the celebration was joyous for both Ramsden and Runacres, it was punctuated by the pain that they likely wouldn't have much more time together. "The emotions were absolutely raw," said Ramsdem, who works in communications. "I don't quite know how Clare did it. I am in awe of her strength. Clare is a force of nature; a force of life." Runacres said there were a lot of tears that day, along with laughter. "It was a very bittersweet day," she said. "Weddings are all about setting your course for the future and having a family and committing to grow old together. When you enter into that and you don't have those expectations, it's difficult." Before their wedding day, Runacres had a second surgery to remove the new cancerous mass. Although the operation was successful, she worried it would spread again, as it had the first time. "For many years, we didn't plan longer than maybe three months ahead," Runacres said. Then, after a few years went by and Runacres's health remained stable, they began to discuss starting a family - something the couple once thought was unfathomable. "Before I got pregnant, the focus was just on me staying alive," Runacres said. "When you have a child, there's somebody else's future to consider." "Are you sure you want to do this?" Runacres recalled repeatedly asking her husband. He replied: "We have to invest in our future. We have to believe that you're well and not sick." After lengthy consideration, "we agreed that we both wanted children and a family, and it was a risk worth taking," Runacres said. They ended up having two girls, now 13 and 15. "From then on, I measured out my wellness on milestones that my children made," Runacres said. "The milestones I've seen have been magical." On Sept. 13, the couple marked a particularly poignant milestone in their lives: their 20th wedding anniversary. "It's something that on that day 20 years ago, I could only have dreamt would have happened," said Runacres. "It's truly extraordinary." She knows how rare her story is. "I'm aware that other people don't always make it that far, which is sad and difficult," she said. "I still live in the shadow of that cancer. I don't think that once something like that is embedded in your life, you ever leave it behind you." Ramsden said it is woven into their story. "We do this together. We try and we struggle and we work at it," he said. "That's just the way it has to be." Runacres said they have been to some very dark places emotionally, and because of that, it's important to recognize the beauty in their lives as well. With that in mind, she decided to share a small slice of her cancer story on social media, in celebration of their 20th wedding anniversary. "We didn't think I'd make our 1st anniversary. Today is our 20th," she wrote in a tweet, which has been viewed nearly 3 million times. "It was a beautiful day. Full of love and tears. Surrounded by our closest friends and family, we put our fears aside and danced til dawn. Even now I can't look at the photos without feeling that raw emotion. To reach 20 years feels like a miracle." Runacres concluded the thread of tweets with: "Mikey, thank you for taking a chance on me. You're the best person I know. You are my miracle. For those living with cancer - keep hoping, believing, dreaming." The thread, which got attention in the British press, is flooded with comments. "I didn't know you had cancer. I have it too. I am in my first year with no evidence of disease," someone replied. "Yours is an inspiring story. Happy anniversary." Runacres is touched to know her post had an impact. "I was surprised and a little overwhelmed, but also grateful that people wanted to share their experiences with me, and that our experience could help others who are in a difficult place," Ruancres said. The couple celebrated their anniversary with a small soiree at Runacres's mother's house, with their original wedding party in attendance. They had dinner and danced and shared tearful speeches. "We're very, very lucky," Ramsden said. "I'm delighted she is still here, and long may we continue." Related Content Home schooling today is less religious and more diverse, poll finds Brooks Robinson, Hall of Fame Orioles third baseman, dies at 86 The inequality of heat Oklahoma state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters speaks during an Oklahoma State Board of Education meeting. On Tuesday, Walters said his department was launching an investigation into the "unacceptable" appointment of a "drag queen" as a school principal. Oklahoma state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters said Tuesday his department would reopen the accreditation status of the Western Heights school district over concerns about its hiring practices and use of taxpayer money. This comes a month after it was revealed that a principal in the district performs as a drag queen. I have heard from parents in Western Heights and throughout Oklahoma who are deeply concerned about the message being sent by a district who would put a drag queen in charge of one of our schools. It is simply unacceptable," Walters said. The Oklahoma State Department of Education said it would also be reviewing the teaching certificate of the John Glenn Elementary School principal, Shane Murnan. The state board's regular meeting is scheduled for Thursday, but it was not immediately known whether the Western Heights investigation would be on the agenda. Western Heights school district followed regular hiring practices, leaders say In a statement following Walters' announcement, the Western Heights school district in metro Oklahoma City said Murnan had been hired in accordance with its usual screening practices. "For Dr. Murnan, this included a felony criminal background check and a verification of his teaching certificate, which was renewed in April 2023 and signed by State Superintendent Ryan Walters," it said. "We are confident that the District is operating within the realm of the law ... (and we are) committed to working in collaboration with OSDE as they conduct their investigation," the statement added. Walters' office did not respond to a question as to whether any other teachers or administrators were under investigation. More: Controversy over principal, drag shows pulls Oklahoma district into national spotlight Murnan's employment as a school principal generated national attention after the conservative social media account Libs of TikTok made a post identifying him as a drag queen. He performs under the drag name Shantel Mandalay. Murnan was hired by Western Heights in June after working in the Oklahoma City School District since 2015. Walters and some media also cited a 2001 charge of child pornography possession against Murnan, who was a fifth-grade teacher in Stillwater at the time. A judge dismissed the case, and the charge was expunged from his record. Murnan said in an interview with NonDoc published earlier in September that the dismissed charges were related to a bias against gay educators. Western Heights had said it was aware of the previous charges but said Murnan was highly qualified and had an outstanding reputation. "He holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, a Masters of Education in Educational Administration, and a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership and Administration," it added. "We welcome Dr. Murnan to Western Heights, and we are very excited about his vision for John Glenn and the community." This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: State to investigate after Oklahoma drag queen principal controversy Flamingos stand by the water along a Lake Michigan beach on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023, in Port Washington, Wis. The American flamingos spotted Friday at the beach, about 25 miles north of Milwaukee, marked the first sighting of the species in Wisconsin state history, said Mark Korducki, a member of the Wisconsin Society for Ornithology. | Paul A. Smith, Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel via Associated Press Typically native to the Caribbean Islands, five American flamingos were spotted in Port Washington, Wisconsin, over the weekend, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Wildlife biologists attribute the 1,500-mile displacement of these tropical birds to Hurricane Idalia, the article noted. Reported as a Category 3 hurricane, Idalia hit Keaton Beach near Tallahassee on Aug. 30, according to CBS. Not only did the storm cause massive power outages, building damages and flooding, it also displaced flamingos, leaving them in Alabama, North and South Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, Texas, and now Wisconsin, per USA Today. Related Media and beachgoers watch flamingos along a Lake Michigan beach on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023, in Port Washington, Wis. | Paul A. Smith, Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel via Associated Press Bill Pranty, author of Birds of Florida, said that birds can be displaced from their homes by traveling in the eyes of hurricanes, getting caught in a storms outer bands, or attempting to fly around storms. He suspects that as Idalia moved north from the Yucatan, the birds traveled into the U.S. in the storms counter-clockwise rain bands, according to USA Today. Regardless of how the flamingos arrived, crowds of bird-lovers have given these Wisconsin visitors a warm welcome. Related Conservation biologist Ryan Brady said the five birds mainly just slept on the beach of Port Washington after landing, according to the New York Post. Ive only ever seen (flamingos) on our trips to Aruba, said Debbie Gasper of Port Washington, who made the short trip to the lakefront with her husband Mark, to the Post. Im going to have to send photos of this or our relatives in Georgia arent going to believe it. A man who was fatally shot in a Wilmington parking lot Tuesday night has been identified as 27-year-old Devin Thomas, according to Wilmington police. The incident, which remains under investigation, occurred in the 1200 block of E. 13th St., where police were called to the scene just after 10:15 p.m. for reports of a shooting. Thomas was transported to the hospital in critical condition, where he later died. Further information is to be released once it becomes available, police said. Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact Detective Justin Kane at (302) 576-3649. Information can also be provided to Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333 or delawarecrimestoppers.org. MORE TO READ: Woman found dead at Carousel Park ID'ed by police as same woman reported missing Monday This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Wilmington man killed in city shooting Tuesday ID'ed by police Officials in Iran are reportedly looking to use artificial intelligence to issue fatwas to speed up the process of Islamic law rulings. Clerics in the city of Qom Irans main hub of Islamic learning are mulling over the use of AI assistants to help them with religious seminaries, the Financial Times reported. Robots cant replace senior clerics, but they can be a trusted assistant that can help them issue a fatwa faster, Mohammad Ghotbi, who heads a state-linked tech group in Qom, told FT. Iran is home to over 200,000 Shia clergy, of whom nearly half are based in Qom. These officials have been the countrys leading force in protecting its religious values amid growing clashes between tradition and modernity as AI use sees growing interest across the world. Iran particularly sees a growing need to modernise following last years nationwide uprising triggered by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in the custody of the countrys morality police after her arrest for allegedly violating the regimes mandatory Islamic dress code. Violence launched by the regime against the protest movement also sparked condemnation from international rights groups, including the UN. It pains me to see what is happening in the country images of children killed, of women being beaten in the streets, Volker Turk, UN high commissioner for human rights, said last year. The old methods and the fortress mentality of those who wield power simply dont work. In fact, they only aggravate the situation. We are now in a full-fledged human rights crisis, Mr Turk said. Now, the regimes clerical establishment seems to view technology especially the use of AI as an attempt to modernise. While still in infancy, the move to trial the use of AI to issue fatwas is underway in cities like Qom, whose first AI conference was held in 2020, according to FT. The head of the citys seminary reportedly shared his views on how AI could advance Islamic studies of senior clergy and speed up their communication with the public. Interest shown by the clerics also appears to be in line with the views of the countrys supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who said in June that he wants the country to be at least among the top-10 countries in the world in terms of artificial intelligence. Years after a worker fell 50 feet to his death from the roof of a Missouri soybean storage tank, a construction contractor has been ordered to pay $370,000, federal authorities say. The U.S. Department of Labor said Skinner Tank Co. did not require its workers to use fall protection, nor did they provide fall protection training. The construction contractor is now considered liable for the Oct. 14, 2019, death of a worker at a St. Joseph construction site, officials said. The worker, identified in media reports as 56-year-old Tony Wilson, was on the roof of the tank when he fell more than 50 feet to the ground. An inspection by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration revealed Skinner Tank Co. provided inaccurate safety information to its employees by telling them that wearing fall protection actually presented a greater hazard than wearing it. Skinner, based out of Yale, Oklahoma, was issued a $370,680 fine and will avoid federal prosecution. The company could not be reached for comment by McClatchy News. The resolution of this case sends a strong message that OSHA will hold employers accountable for willful violations of federal safety regulations that seriously or fatally injure their workers, OSHA Region Administrator Billie Kizer said. Each year, too many workers lose their lives from falls the leading cause of workplace deaths in the construction industry because employers fail to provide fall protection. Wilson was married and had two children and seven grandchildren, according to an obituary. He was fearless when it came to new adventures and was always fun to be around, the obituary states. Most of all he was an excellent grandfather who loved spending time with his grandchildren and will be dearly missed. Company fined after 19-year-old worker dies in concrete mixer in Florida, OSHA says 18-year-old worker fell from roof and died. Death could have been prevented, feds say Worker burned during fire died days later, NC officials say. Now business faces fines Jasper Kenzo Sundeen's reporting for the Yakima Herald-Republic is possible with support from Report for America and community members through the Yakima Valley Community Fund. For information on republishing, email news@yakimaherald.com. If you're not sure where to start when looking for the next multi-bagger, there are a few key trends you should keep an eye out for. In a perfect world, we'd like to see a company investing more capital into its business and ideally the returns earned from that capital are also increasing. Basically this means that a company has profitable initiatives that it can continue to reinvest in, which is a trait of a compounding machine. Having said that, from a first glance at ISDN Holdings (SGX:I07) we aren't jumping out of our chairs at how returns are trending, but let's have a deeper look. 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 ISDN Holdings: Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) (Total Assets - Current Liabilities) 0.12 = S$33m (S$403m - S$138m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to June 2023). So, ISDN Holdings has an ROCE of 12%. On its own, that's a standard return, however it's much better than the 8.4% generated by the Electrical industry. Check out our latest analysis for ISDN Holdings roce Above you can see how the current ROCE for ISDN Holdings compares to its prior returns on capital, but there's only so much you can tell from the past. If you're interested, you can view the analysts predictions in our free report on analyst forecasts for the company. What Can We Tell From ISDN Holdings' ROCE Trend? On the surface, the trend of ROCE at ISDN Holdings doesn't inspire confidence. Around five years ago the returns on capital were 16%, but since then they've fallen to 12%. And considering revenue has dropped while employing more capital, we'd be cautious. This could mean that the business is losing its competitive advantage or market share, because while more money is being put into ventures, it's actually producing a lower return - "less bang for their buck" per se. Story continues Our Take On ISDN Holdings' ROCE We're a bit apprehensive about ISDN Holdings because despite more capital being deployed in the business, returns on that capital and sales have both fallen. Yet despite these concerning fundamentals, the stock has performed strongly with a 96% return over the last five years, so investors appear very optimistic. In any case, the current underlying trends don't bode well for long term performance so unless they reverse, we'd start looking elsewhere. One more thing, we've spotted 1 warning sign facing ISDN Holdings that you might find interesting. While ISDN Holdings 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. U.S. carrier JetBlue Airways warned on Thursday it expects third-quarter revenue to be at the low end of its prior forecast due to a bigger hit from weather-related disruptions and gaps in air traffic control staffing. The airline also said that close-in leisure bookings during September were lower than expected. Airlines have struggled with adverse weather and shortages of air traffic controllers this year. JetBlue's CEO had earlier this month told Reuters the carrier had to cut flights "because the system can't cope with the number of flights." The twin disruptions are expected to push up costs in the third quarter, JetBlue said on Thursday. The airline also joined peers in bumping up its third-quarter fuel cost forecast to approximately $2.95 per gallon, up from its prior range of $2.75 to $2.90 per gallon due to a significant rise in crude oil prices. (Reporting by Aatreyee Dasgupta in Bengaluru; Editing by Arun Koyyur) Sfarsit teribil pentru un tanar din Galati. Masina in care se afla s-a izbit de un TIR Sfarsit teribil pentru un tanar din Galati, in varsta de doar 24 de ani. Barbatul a murit pe loc, dupa ce a intrat pe contrasens si s-a izbit de un TIR. Evenimentul rutier a avut loc in aceasta seara. Sfarsit teribil [citeste mai departe] Sam Bankman-Fried. Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images A judge approved a request for Sam Bankman-Fried to wear business attire in court. His lawyers said they would provide him with clothes including "appropriate undergarments." Judges often allow jailed inmates to wear suits to avoid possible juror bias if they wore prison uniform. The judge overseeing the trial of Sam Bankman-Fried approved a request on Wednesday for the FTX founder to wear business attire in court. The former billionaire, who typically wore a t-shirt and shorts while in charge of the crypto exchange, no longer has access to his own clothes since US District Judge Lewis Kaplan revoked Bankman-Fried's bail last month. Now behind bars at the Metropolitan Detention Center, his lawyers submitted a proposed order on Tuesday which asked Kaplan to allow Bankman-Fried to wear "business attire clothing." The court document, which Insider has seen, orders the US Marshals Service and MDC to "accept and maintain" that Bankman-Fried's lawyers can provide him with clothes to wear in court. It said they would give Bankman-Fried: four dress shirts, three ties, one belt, four pairs of socks, two pairs of shoes, and "appropriate undergarments" exactly what this means is not clear. Kaplan approved the order on Wednesday. Judges often let jailed inmates wear business attire in court, because wearing a prison uniform could prejudice the jury. Since Bankman-Fried was arrested in the Bahamas and extradited to the US, he has appeared in court wearing a suit and tie, as he was previously kept under house arrest at his parents' home. Although he has at times been pictured outside the Manhattan court with his shirt untucked, collar upturned, or tie loose. Bankman-Fried's business attire has been flawed at times. Fatih Aktas/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images; YUKI IWAMURA/AFP via Getty Images A spokesperson for Bankman-Fried declined to comment. Bankman-Fried's penchant for casual clothing was a marked feature of his rise to fame. Last April, the then-billionaire wore a t-shirt and shorts on stage at a crypto conference alongside the besuited former world leaders Tony Blair and President Bill Clinton. Ex-British Prime Minister Blair joked that he felt "a little overdressed" by comparison, according to Forbes . Story continues The SkyBridge Capital founder Anthony Scaramucci previously told Insider that he bought Bankman-Fried a suit from Bloomingdale's for a fundraising tour in the Middle East last October. "I didn't certainly like elements of the way he was dressed," Scaramucci said. "When you're in Rome, do as the Romans do." Bankman-Fried has pleaded not guilty to seven charges including wire fraud, conspiracy to commit securities fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. He could face over 100 years in prison if convicted of all charges. The trial begins next Tuesday. Read the original article on Business Insider The fresh newsletter for the International Community in Hungary - described by readers as a "Great read each week" - is now available for your interest and use via the link below. Hungarian is a notoriously challenging language for non-native speakers, with complex grammar rules and a vast vocabulary. However, for expats living in Hungary, there are many reasons why it's worth taking the time and effort to learn the language. Here, we suggest five compelling reasons why expats should consider learning more than a few basic Hungarian words and phrases like jo reggelt, ehes vagyok, nem kerek csipost es hagymat, csinos vagy, kerek egy sort and egeszsegere! Whether you want to immerse yourself further into Hungarian culture, better integrate into local society, improve your job prospects, challenge your brain or experience personal growth, learning Hungarian can be a highly rewarding and enriching experience. 1. Personal growth You might not think so at first, but learning Hungarian can be a highly rewarding experience. It is said by experts to be a difficult language to learn, so mastering it can give you a great sense of accomplishment and self-confidence. It can also broaden your horizons and open up new opportunities for travel and exploration. As you progress in your language skills, you may find that you develop a deeper appreciation for Hungarian culture and a greater sense of connection to your adopted country. 2. Cultural immersion Learning Hungarian is a key step towards cultural immersion. Speaking the language allows you to communicate with locals in their native tongue and gain a deeper understanding of Hungarian customs and traditions. Hungarian culture is rich and diverse, with a proud history and a wealth of art, music and literature. By learning the language, you can access these treasures and fully appreciate the countrys unique cultural heritage. 3. Better integration Learning Hungarian can help you integrate more effectively into Hungarian society. While English is widely spoken in Hungary, particularly in Budapest and the main university cities, many locals still prefer to communicate in their native language. By speaking even just some Hungarian, you can build stronger relationships with your Hungarian colleagues and friends. It also makes it easier to navigate daily life, such as reading signs, filling out forms and dealing with bureaucracy. 4. Mental stimulation Learning Hungarian is an excellent mental workout. It challenges your brain to think in new and different ways, improving cognitive function and memory retention. The complex grammar and vocabulary of Hungarian require concentration and focus, which can improve your attention span and problem-solving abilities. Research has also shown that learning a new language can stave off cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia. 5. Job opportunities Finally, knowing Hungarian can give you a significant advantage in the job market. While many multinational companies in Hungary operate in English, there are many sectors where Hungarian language skills are highly valued. By demonstrating your language skills, you show a commitment to the country and culture, which can be an attractive quality to potential employers. 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 Prime Minister Viktor Orban met Marine Le Pen, the parliamentary group leader of the French National Rally party in the National Assembly, in Budapest. Orban, who also heads Hungarys ruling Fidesz party, discussed with Le Pen the strengthening position of European right-wing parties in view of the 2024 European parliamentary elections. Orban and Le Pen agreed that national conservatives must find a joint, determined response to the EUs imperialistic ambitions, failed economic policy and pro-migration initiatives, he said. They also discussed the political representation of families and national and Christian values, a focal point of both parties policies. Earlier this year, I visited our nations southern border. I knew there was a crisis there, but that visit opened my eyes to more instability and hardship than I had previously seen. Along the border wall at midnight, my colleagues and I spoke with dozens of illegal immigrants who had been detained. I was heartbroken to meet a little six-month-old baby sitting by the wall with her mother waiting to go to the processing center. I was told this was not an unusual occurrence. Many of these migrants regardless of age, ability, or family size are forced to interact with coyotes and cartels on their journeys to the border. Despite immense danger, migrants keep rushing to our southern border. And they do it because theyve been invited by this administration to take this treacherous trek to enter our country illegally. President Biden built his administration on promises to make it easier for migrants to get into our country. As a result, our nation has seen a historic spike in illegal immigration. Since President Bidens inauguration, over six million migrants have made it to our southern border. Border Patrol agents have seized over 45,000 pounds of fentanyl the deadliest drug in our country today. Thats not to mention the hundreds of known terrorists who have been identified at the border, or the many illegal immigrants who have slipped past our porous border without being counted. The Biden administration has created a national security and humanitarian crisis at our border. In the Senate, my colleagues and I are pushing back and working to address this massive problem. I recently introduced the Secure the Border Act with Texas Senator Ted Cruz (R). This border security package has already passed the House of Representatives as H.R. 2. The Secure the Border Act includes a collection of critical provisions that would change things at our border. The Biden administration stopped constructing a wall on our southern border, despite the fact that Congress had already provided funds and materials for the wall. Our legislation would pick up where the Trump administration left off and resume construction on the border wall. Our border security package would also implement a range of asylum reforms. It would get rid of the Biden administrations smartphone app appointment scheduling function. Instead of giving migrants concierge services at the click of a button, our Border Patrol agents should be evaluating asylum applications in a thorough and organized manner. The Secure the Border Act would finally close the catch-and-release loophole that the Biden administration refuses to address. It would bring back a policy similar to the Trump-era Remain in Mexico protocols. Rather than letting illegal immigrants into our country while they wait for asylum proceedings, this policy would authorize the removal of illegal immigrants to a third country during that process. These are just some of the reforms included in the Secure the Border Act. The package would get to work fixing the mess President Biden has created at the border. It would address the humanitarian crisis that continues building, and it would ensure rigorous security standards to keep our nation safe. The Biden administration may be ignoring their border disaster, but my colleagues and I are not. Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week. New Delhi: If you are looking to blend a cherished Indian snacks tradition with a contemporary emphasis on health and wellness, there is a good option that you can explore. Puffed Rice or Murmura or Muri, a beloved fast food across urban and rural regions, is something that has the potential to attract even the most health-conscious consumers. Today, the demand for puffed rice has surged, even finding its place in big malls and retail stores with improved packaging. In this context, venturing into the puffed rice production business, tailored to health-conscious consumers, presents a lucrative opportunity. According to the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) Project Profile For Gramodyog Rojgar Yojana, the Murmura Manufacturing Unit will have the following cost Project Cost For Murmura Manufacturing Unit: Land : own Building Shed 1000 Sq.ft : Rs. 2 lakh Equipment Cost: Rs. 1 lakh Total Capital Expenditure Rs. 3 lakh Working Capital Rs. 55000 TOTAL PROJECT COST : Rs 3.55 lakh According to the KVIC project report, if you produce Murmura using 100 percent capacity, the annual Murmura production will be 369 quintals. At the rate of Rs 1,200, there will be an annual production of Rs 443,000. KVIC has broken down the Estimated Cost Analysis into the following in 100%, 60%, 70% and 80% capacity Projected Sales Rs 5.53 lakh, Rs 3.32 lakh, Rs 3.87 lakh and Rs 4.43 lakh as per 100%, 60%, 70% and 80% capacity respectively. Gross Surplus: Rs 1.10 lakh, Rs 66,450, Rs 77,530 and Rs 88,600 as per 100%, 60%, 70% and 80% capacity respectively. Expected Net Surplus: Rs 91,000, Rs 46,000, Rs 58,000 and Rs 69,000 as per 100%, 60%, 70% and 80% capacity respectively.\ (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 as mentioned by KVIC previous estimates. The 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.) New Delhi: The Madhya Pradesh police has detained five suspects including an auto driver in connection with the rape of a 12-year-old girl in Ujjain, Ujjain SP Sachin Sharma said to Zee News. "The interrogation of the suspects is underway. The girl hails from Satna, "he added further. The victim's parents have also been identified. A CCTV footage revealed that the rape survivor teen girl walked for 8 kilometres in search of help. The girl, who was raped and found bleeding on a street in Madhya Pradesh's Ujjain city, was on Wednesday operated upon by a team of specialist doctors and her condition is critical but stable. Amid massive public outrage, Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra said that a special investigation team (SIT) has been formed to probe the shocking crime. Here's all you need to know about the horrific Ujjain rape incident: 01 - The minor was found in an unconscious state in Murlipura area under Mahakal police station limits in the district, according to police. 02 - Seeing her soaked in blood, locals informed police, which reached the spot and took the girl to the hospital where a medical examination confirmed she was raped. 03 - Amid massive public outrage, MP Home Minister Narottam Mishra said that a special investigation team (SIT) has been formed to probe the shocking crime and a suspect has been detained. 04 - The girl is hails from Satna district and police is in contact with her parents. 05 - The girl is admitted in a government hospital in Indore and her condition is stable. Specialist doctors are constantly monitoring her health. 06 - The incident came to light after a video of the bleeding girl walking on a street in Ujjain city went viral on social media 07 - An FIR has been registered at Mahakal police station in connection with the rape of the minor girl and an investigation into the incident is underway 08 - Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath demanded that the victim be given financial assistance of Rs 1 crore and that the accused in the case be given the strictest possible punishment. 09 - The minors rape also prompted opposition leaders, including Congress' Rahul Gandhi, to attack the ruling BJP over law and order in the state. 10 - The Trinamool Congress (TMC) slammed the state government over the minors rape and said although the issue of womens empowerment finds special mention in speeches by BJP leaders, cases of violence against women continue to haunt the country. New Dehi: Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira, who has been arrested by Punjab Police in a 8 year old drugs case, has accused the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann of plotting against him. He said, Bhagwant Mann is bloodthirsty. He might even try to kill me. I feel something very very dangerousBhagwant Mann cannot stand Congress in Punjab. AAP has done this to sideline Congress in PunjabBut the truth will win in the end Khaira was arrested by the Punjab Police in connection with a 2015 drugs case on Thursday morning. A Punjab Police team led by Superintendent of Police Manjeet Singh raided the Chandigarh residence of Khaira around 6 am. The MLA's son went live on Facebook showing that a team of Punjab Police has reached their residence to apprehend Khaira. In the video, Khaira could be seen arguing with the police team and asking them to show him the arrest warrant. #WATCH | Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira who has been detained by Punjab Police in a drugs case says, "Bhagwant Mann has become thirsty for blood. I will not be surprised if he gets me physically eliminated also. I sense something very very dangerous...Bhagwant Mann is not pic.twitter.com/G15b2HmgEB ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2023 The Bholath legislator could also be seen asking for the identity of the police officers who were part of the raiding team. He was told by the police official that he was being arrested in the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act case. When Khaira asked the team where he was being taken, a police official told him that he was being taken to Jalalabad in Fazilka. According to official sources, a special investigation team led by Deputy Inspector General of Police Swapan Sharma was formed in April 2023 and Khaira was arrested based on its investigation into the 2015 case. Slamming the Bhagwant Mann government, the Congress MLA, who has been critical of the AAP government on various issues, claimed that he was being apprehended in a "false" case and that "jungle raj" was prevailing in the state. Congress Punjab Chief Terms Khaira's Arrest 'Political Vendetta' The Congress state unit chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring and Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa strongly condemned the arrest of Khaira. Warring visited the residence of Khaira after his arrest and met his son Mehtab Khaira and other family members. He said they stand by the Bholath MLA. The Punjab Congress chief questioned the police action, asking what kind of probe was conducted by the Punjab police which led to Khaira's arrest after eight years. "It shows that 'jungle raj' is prevailing in the state," Warring said and questioned the absence of Chandigarh Police during the Punjab Police action. In a post on X, Warring said, "The recent arrest of MLA Sukhpal Khaira ji smacks of political vendetta. It is an attempt to intimidate the opposition and is a ploy of the AAP government in Punjab to distract (people) from core issues. We stand strongly with Sukhpal Khaira and will take this fight to its logical conclusion." Bajwa said, "The arrest of senior Congress leader Sukhpal Khaira is extremely deplorable. The AAP government in Punjab has stooped to an all-time low and resorted to vendetta politics. Sukhpal Singh Khaira has been outspoken and raised his voice against the wrongdoings and irregularities committed by CM Bhagwant Mann's government." "The Punjab Congress under the ambit of law will leave no stone unturned to get him released," he added. The drugs case was registered in March 2015 at Jalalabad in Fazilka. Nine people were booked in the case and later convicted under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Police had recovered 2 kg of heroin, 24 gold biscuits, one country-made pistol, a .315-bore pistol and two Pakistani SIM cards from them. Khaira's cropped up later during the police probe. However, in 2017, the Supreme Court stayed the trial court proceedings against Khaira who was summoned as an additional accused in the matter. He was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in 2021 on the charge of money laundering linked to the 2015 drug case. He was granted bail in 2022. In February 2023, the apex court quashed the summoning order against Khaira in the 2015 drugs case AFCAT 2 Result 2023: The Indian Air Force has released the IAF AFCAT 02/2023 Result 2023 today, September 27, 2023. Candidates who took the Air Force Common Admission Test can view and obtain their results at afcat.cdac.in, the official website. Candidates must provide their User ID and password to see the scorecard. The AFCAT 2023 exam was held on August 25, 26, and 27, 2023 at various exam venues across the country. Candidates can now access and download their results through their personal logins. AFCAT 2 Result 2023: Here's how to check 1. Visit the official website-afcat.cdac.in 2. Click on the IAS AFCAT Result link 3. Now, enter the asked Username and password 4. Access the result and download it 5. Take a print out for the future references Candidates who pass the IAF AFCAT 2 Exam will be shortlisted for testing by the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB). Candidates will receive a call letter instructing them to report to any of the Air Force Selection Boards in Dehradun, Varanasi, Gandhinagar, or Mysuru. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is suing Elon Musk's electric vehicle maker Tesla for a pervasive pattern of racial abuse at one of its manufacturing plants and for retaliating against Black employees who complained about the stereotyping, hostility and slurs. According to the lawsuit filed in federal court in Oakland Thursday, Black employees at Teslas Fremont, California facility were routinely subjected to graffiti, swastikas, threats such as kill black people, and nooses on desks and other equipment, in bathroom stalls, in elevators and on new vehicles on the production line since 2015, the EEOC alleged. Black employees described racist imagery as frequent, constant, a regular thing, and occurring too many times to count, the lawsuit alleged. Employees who objected to the racial hostility were terminated, transferred or had their job duties changed, according to the lawsuit. Despite having actual or constructive knowledge of racial harassment and misconduct, Tesla failed and refused to take steps to address the behavior. Tesla failed to investigate complaints of racial misconduct. Tesla failed to adopt policies or practices to ensure that its temporary workforce did not perpetrate racial harassment at the Fremont Factory, the EEOC lawsuit charged. A charging station for Tesla electric cars is pictured at a car park in Berlin, Germany on August 3, 2023. Tesla had reported a jump in second-quarter profits on July 19 as a series of price cuts translated into sharply higher car sales. Elon Musk's electric vehicle company reported profits of USD 2.7 billion, up 20 percent on the year-ago level. Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The EEOC, which is charged with protecting the civil rights of Americans in the workplace, said it investigated Tesla after Chair Charlotte Burrows filed a commissioners charge alleging that Tesla violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by subjecting Black employees to an unlawful hostile work environment and retaliating against employees for opposing harassment. Tesla revealed in April 2022 that it was being investigated by the EEOC. A separate lawsuit brought by Californias civil rights agency also accuses the company of ignoring pervasive racism against Black workers in Fremont and in other facilities. In April, a federal jury in San Francisco ordered Tesla to pay about $3.2 million to a Black former employee after he won a racial harassment lawsuit. The award was far less than the $15 million he rejected when he asked for a new trial last year. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tesla sued for harassment of Black workers at California plant RPSC RAS Admit Card 2023: According to the official announcement, the Rajasthan Public Service Commission, RPSC, will release the Rajasthan State and Subordinate Services Combined Competitive (Pre) Examination, 2023 admit card today, September 28, 2023. When the admit card is available, aspirants can access it via the official website at rpsc.rajasthan.gov.in. Candidates should download their admit card by clicking the Admit Card link on the Commission's website and entering their application number and date of birth. Meanwhile, candidates taking the exam can access the exam city slip through their SSO login. RPSC RAS Admit Card 2023: Steps to download here Visit the official website rpsc.rajasthan.gov.in. On the homepage, click on RPSC RAS Prelims admit card 2023 link. Key in your login details and submit. Check and download the admit card. Take a printout for future reference. Additionally, candidates must present at the test centre with the original Aadhaar card (coloured print) or any other authentic picture identity card, else access will be barred. On the exam day, candidates will be permitted to attend the examination centre only 60 minutes before the exam begins, or until 10 a.m. After 10 a.m., no candidate will be permitted to enter the centre. National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah today hit out at the BJP saying that the saffron party is running away from the elections in Jammu and Kashmir because it's afraid of defeat. Reacting to the possible delay in ULB elections, Abdullah said, If you ask them why elections are deferred, they say we havent announced yet. Those people (BJP) are not in the mood to conduct elections here, and leave Kashmir, they will face defeat in Jammu too because they know people will punish them through votes. BJP aren't in the mood of conducting polls other than Parliamentary elections which they can't evade." On the proposed opposition meeting in Jammu next week, Abdullah said, "Meeting is called to discuss the situation and its good its being held in Jammu as people of this region always have complaints that all things are done in Kashmir." On the statement DGP that they have controlled terrorism in J&K up to a great extent, Abdullah said, "We all want Jammu and Kashmir terror-free, let DGP make it clear what kind of support he wants from us, we will do whatever we can to help them make JK terror-free." He said, after security forces, its his party which has given maximum sacrifice in the fight against terrorism. Taking a jibe at the DGP, he said that how much terror-free J&K is was seen during the Kokernag encounter where high-rank officers lost their lives. "Let them make J&K terror-free and then remove AFSPA we will be first to clap for them," he said. On the issue of Canada, Abdullah said, "Its unfortunate what is happening between the two countries. India and Canada were having good relations and this emerging gap in relation is not good. Canada says that we have done some incidents there on their soil but only statement doesnt work. Let them come with proof, our foreign minister had said the same thing in the UN. If they have proof, let them share it with India and then only India will take action." IMPHAL: A mob tried to attack Chief Minister N Biren Singh's empty ancestral house on Thursday night, despite a security clampdown and curfew in the Imphal valley. Security forces, however, were successful in foiling the attempt after firing in the air. Singh lives in a separate, well-guarded official residence in the centre of the state's capital. There was an attempt to attack the chief minister's ancestral house at Heingang locality in Imphal. Security forces stopped the mob around 100-150 metres away from the house, a police officer said. Nobody stays in the house now though it too is guarded round the clock, the officer said. The police officer said, Two groups of people came from different directions and approached the CM's ancestral residence but they were stopped. Several rounds of tear gas shells were fired by RAF and state police personnel to disperse the mob. STORY | Breaking curfew, mob tries to attack Manipur CM's ancestral house; security forces foil attempt READ: https://t.co/MKsTRRbLiY VIDEO: pic.twitter.com/AKzhf9u09n Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 28, 2023 The authorities switched off the electricity connection in the entire area to help reduce the visibility of the protestors. More barricades were added to the previous ones near the house. The protestors also burnt tyres in the middle of the nearby road. Ambulances were seen advancing near the spot but till now there is no report of injury to any side. The incident occurred amid violent protests by students over the death of two youths in Manipur rocked the state capital on Tuesday and Wednesday. A mob vandalised the deputy commissioner's office in Imphal West district and torched two four-wheelers in the early hours of Thursday. Curfew was re-imposed in the two districts -- Imphal East and West on Wednesday as the security forces combatted the violent protests, which saw 65 demonstrators being injured since Tuesday. A fresh bout of violence broke out in the state capital on Tuesday, a day after photos of the bodies of two youths - a man and a girl - who went missing in July went viral on social media. Earlier, houses of several ministers were attacked in Manipur which has been witnessing ethnic strife for nearly five months. NEW DELHI: A group of Indian hackers has claimed the responsibility for a cyberattack that temporarily disabled the website of the Canadian Armed Forces. The development came in the wake of diplomatic relations between India and Canada nosediving in the last week over the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The group of Indian hackers named Indian Cyber Force shared the screenshot on the social media platform X. The group also shared the screenshot of taking down the Canadian Armed Forces. The group in its post on X claimed responsibility and said: "Canadian Airforce Website has been taken down. Target - forces.ca/en/ Check host - check-host.net/check-report/1 Duration: 2 hour." Besides the Canadian Armed Forces website, the group also claimed the responsibility of bringing down another website. In a post on X, it claimed: "Canada Election Democracy Website has been taken down. Target - electionsanddemocracy.ca Check Host - check-host.net/check-report/1 Attack Duration: 1 Hour." Diplomatic relations between Canada and India have become nosedived in the last few weeks over the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar." Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently announced that Intelligence agencies were investigating "credible" allegations linking Indian agents to the death of Nijjar. Srinagar: As violence continues to rock Manipur, the Centre has deployed senior IPS officer Rakesh Balwal from Jammu and Kashmir to the northeastern state. Balwal, who belongs to the 2012 batch of IPS, was working as the Srinagar SSP since late 2021 and has been transferred back to his home cadre Manipur where the situation has been volatile for the last few months. An official order said that the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the Ministry of Home Affairs proposal for early repatriation of Rakesh Balwal, IPS, from AGMUT cadre to Manipur cadre. Balwal had served as an SP with the NIA for three-and-half years before becoming the Srinagar SSP and was part of the team that probed the 2019 Pulwama terror attack that claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel. The ethnic violence in Manipur erupted on May 3, when a Tribal Solidarity March was held in the hill districts to oppose the demand for Scheduled Tribe status by the majority Meitei community. Since then, more than 180 people have lost their lives and several hundred have been injured. The violence flared up again on Tuesday, when students took to the streets after photos of two youths who had gone missing in July surfaced on social media. The protests turned violent on Wednesday night and continued till Thursday morning, with a mob setting fire to two vehicles and ransacking the deputy commissioners office in Imphal West, officials said. The security forces had to use tear gas shells to disperse the protesters who clashed with them in Uripok, Yaiskul, Sagolband and Tera areas, they said. Karnataka Bandh': Normal life is likely to be crippled in Karnataka, specially in the southern part of the state amid the bandh call by pro-Kannada and farmers' organisations to protest the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu. The 'Kannada Okkuta', a collective representing various Kannada organizations including factions of Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, Kannada Chalavali (Vatal Paksha), and farmers' groups, has called for a statewide shutdown from dawn to dusk (6am to 6pm). * The organizers have planned a significant protest march from Town Hall to Freedom Park in the city, expecting participation from diverse segments of society. Their aim is to disrupt highways, toll booths, rail services, and even airports throughout Karnataka. * The opposition BJP and JD(S) too have extended their support to the bandh, as also hotels, autorickshaws and hail riders associations in Karnataka. * "Autorickshaw Drivers' Union and Ola Uber Drivers and Owners' Association (OUDOA) are supporting the bandh. We will take out a rally from Nayandahalli to the Freedom Park tomorrow," its president Tanveer Pasha told PTI. * An office bearer of the Karnataka State Private Schools' Association told PTI that they were extending moral support' to the bandh. "We have told our association members to use their discretion regarding the bandh. We have communicated to our students that there are chances of schools remaining shut," the office-bearer said. * The Bruhath Bangaluru Hotel Association has extended its 'moral support' to the strike. However, they were holding a meeting to take a final decision on whether to keep the restaurants and eateries shut for the whole day on Friday. * Meanwhile, the State Transport Department has issued directions to the state transport corporations to continue their services as usual. Farmers and traders in the northern part of Karnataka such as Ballari, Kalaburagi, Bidar, Bagalkote, Vijayapura, Yadgir, Hubballi-Dharwad, Gadag, Haveri, Koppal and Davangere have extended their moral support' to the bandh but said they will not shut down their businesses. * The direction of the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee to Karnataka to release water at the rate of 3,000 cubic feet per second (cusecs) to Tamil Nadu from Thursday to October 15 will be challenged before the Supreme Court, the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has said. * Karnataka Home Minister Dr G. Parameshwara said only protest is allowed on September 29 and if anyone tries to force people to observe bandh, legal action will be initiated. Speaking to reporters, Parameshwara stated, "I am warning the organisations which have given a call for bandh. The bandh can't be observed as directed by the court. Legal action will be initiated against those who defy it," he added. * Due to the Bengaluru bandh observed on September 26, there is an approximate loss of Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,000 crore. Amid this, if bandh is observed for one more time it will further make the situation critical in terms of economy, Parameshwara warned. * Alok Mohan, the DGP and IG of Karnataka state warned that there should be no imposition of forceful bandh on Friday. The directions have been given to take action if the public are troubled. All SPs and DCPs are given directions. If protestors try to shut down shops, action will be taken, he explained. (With PTI, ANI inputs) New Delhi: Opposition leaders have slammed the BJP over its Lok Sabha member Ramesh Bidhuri, who is in the eye of a storm for his derogatory comments against BSP MP Danish Ali, getting poll responsibility in Rajasthan's Tonk district. In a post on X, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said, "Sabka saath, sabka vikas, sabka vishwas'yeh sab hai inka bakwaas." TMC MP Mahua Moitra also slammed the BJP and said Bidhuri had been "rewarded" for his remarks against a Muslim MP. "How does a showcaused person be given a new role by BJP? Narendra Modi ji, is this your Sneha Yatra for minorities, your love outreach?" she said on X. With the Gurjar community present in large numbers in the Tonk district, which has four assembly seats, including the one held by senior Congress leader Sachin Pilot, the BJP believes Bidhuri can help it swing the votes as he is also from the same caste. Pilot is also from the Gurjar community. Bidhuri's responsibility will be akin to the BJP's poll in-charge of the district, party sources said. Bidhuri also posted on X that he attended a coordination meeting for the Tonk district held in Jaipur. Rajasthan BJP president C P Joshi chaired the meeting. The BJP MP from South Delhi had been issued a show cause notice by the party after his derogatory words targeting Ali in Lok Sabha last week sparked massive outrage with the opposition demanding his suspension from the House. Bidhuri's remarks targeting Ali during a discussion on the success of the Chandrayaan-3 lunar mission last Thursday sparked a furore, with opposition leaders calling for stringent action against the BJP MP. Opposition parties have rallied around Ali and targeted the BJP on its MP's remarks. Several members of the Congress, TMC and NCP among others have written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla seeking the strictest action against Bidhuri. New Delhi: The renowned Indian scientist and the brain behind the countrys green revolution M.S Swaminathan aka Monkombu Sambasivan Swaminathan passed away on Thursday at the age of 98. He was the instrumental in developing India a self-sufficient country in paddy with high-yield varieties in India which led to increase the average income of farmers. Early Life and Education The prodigy Ms. Swaminathan was born on August 7, 1925, in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India. He pursued Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in agriculture from the University of Madras and went to the United Kingdom to earn a Ph.D. in Plant Genetics and Cytogenetics from the University of Cambridge. The Green Revolution Pioneer Ms. Swaminathan is widely recognized as the "Father of the Green Revolution in India." He played a pivotal role in revolutionizing Indian agriculture during the 1960s and 1970s. Developed High-Yielding Varieties Ms. Swaminathan's groundbreaking work involved developing high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice. His efforts significantly increased food production in India, addressing the pressing issue of food security in the country. Agricultural Advancements: He promoted sustainable agricultural practices and helped farmers adopt modern farming techniques. International Impact Beyond India, Ms. Swaminathan's contributions have had a global impact on agriculture and food security. He has worked with international organizations and governments to improve agricultural practices worldwide. Awards and Recognition Ms. Swaminathan's exceptional contributions have earned him numerous awards, including the World Food Prize and the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award. Legacy His legacy continues through the work of the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, which focuses on agricultural research and development. Conclusion Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan's life and work exemplify a deep commitment to improving agriculture, ensuring food security, and making a lasting impact on the well-being of people in India and around the world. His legacy as a scientist, agricultural leader, and humanitarian is enduring and influential. TORONTO, Sept. 28, 2023 /CNW/ - Lilly Canada is proud to participate in the annual Global Day of Service, a volunteering initiative where Lilly employees around the world invest their time and talent to make life better and impact the communities where we live and work. On September 28th, Lilly employees across Canada will work in partnership with global conservation organization Ocean Wise to clean up shorelines, preventing waste from reaching waterways. Lilly Canada to Clean Up Shorelines and Be Citizen Scientists for Global Day of Service (CNW Group/Eli Lilly Canada Inc.) "Our commitment to improving the lives of people and our communities extends beyond our medicines," says Jill Daley, Vice President Corporate Affairs, Lilly Canada. "It's an honour to partner with Ocean Wise for a second year, where our employees across the country can unite on a common goal and see the tangible impact of cleaning up local shorelines and waterways. Working with organizations like Ocean Wise to advance their efforts allows us to make a meaningful difference." Ocean Wise has been an ocean champion for 50 years. From humble beginnings in Vancouver in 1951, the organization has grown into a global environmental charity that addresses overfishing, ocean pollution and climate change. The Ocean Wise Shoreline Cleanup program has become the largest direct-action environmental project in Canada, engaging over 1 million volunteers to make a positive impact on their shorelines. "Contributing to our communities is at the heart of Lilly's ethos. The Lilly Global Day of Service empowers us to join forces worldwide, generating a collective impact through a range of activities supporting our local communities," says Kenneth Custer, President and General Manager, Lilly Canada. "I am excited about giving back in a unique way alongside our Canadian team. By assuming the role of citizen scientists, we'll gather and track litter in our communities, helping to protect and preserve the environment while fostering positive change in the areas we call home." Story continues During the cross-country volunteer effort, Lilly Canada and Ocean Wise will collect data about the litter, which will be used to create an impact on plastic waste on a larger scale. About Lilly Canada Eli Lilly and Company is a global healthcare leader that unites caring with discovery to make life better for people around the world. We were founded more than a century ago by Colonel Eli Lilly, who was committed to creating high quality medicines that meet people's needs, and today we remain true to that mission in all our work. Lilly employees work to discover and bring life-changing medicines to people who need them, improve the understanding and management of disease, and contribute to our communities through philanthropy and volunteerism. Eli Lilly Canada was established in 1938, the result of a research collaboration with scientists at the University of Toronto which eventually produced the world's first commercially available insulin. Our work focuses on oncology, diabetes, autoimmunity, neurodegeneration, and pain. To learn more about Lilly Canada, please visit us at www.lilly.ca or follow us on LinkedIn. SOURCE Eli Lilly Canada Inc. Cision View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/September2023/28/c1023.html Key Insights Institutions' substantial holdings in Malaysia Building Society Berhad implies that they have significant influence over the company's share price The largest shareholder of the company is Employees Provident Fund of Malaysia with a 66% stake Using data from company's past performance alongside ownership research, one can better assess the future performance of a company Every investor in Malaysia Building Society Berhad (KLSE:MBSB) should be aware of the most powerful shareholder groups. With 72% stake, institutions possess the maximum shares in the company. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn). Since institutional have access to huge amounts of capital, their market moves tend to receive a lot of scrutiny by retail or individual investors. Therefore, a good portion of institutional money invested in the company is usually a huge vote of confidence on its future. In the chart below, we zoom in on the different ownership groups of Malaysia Building Society Berhad. Check out our latest analysis for Malaysia Building Society Berhad What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Malaysia Building Society Berhad? Institutional investors commonly compare their own returns to the returns of a commonly followed index. So they generally do consider buying larger companies that are included in the relevant benchmark index. As you can see, institutional investors have a fair amount of stake in Malaysia Building Society Berhad. This can indicate that the company has a certain degree of credibility in the investment community. However, it is best to be wary of relying on the supposed validation that comes with institutional investors. They too, get it wrong sometimes. When multiple institutions own a stock, there's always a risk that they are in a 'crowded trade'. When such a trade goes wrong, multiple parties may compete to sell stock fast. This risk is higher in a company without a history of growth. You can see Malaysia Building Society Berhad's 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. Hedge funds don't have many shares in Malaysia Building Society Berhad. The company's largest shareholder is Employees Provident Fund of Malaysia, with ownership of 66%. This essentially means that they have extensive influence, if not outright control, over the future of the corporation. In comparison, the second and third largest shareholders hold about 1.8% and 1.3% of the stock. Researching institutional ownership is a good way to gauge and filter a stock's expected performance. The same can be achieved by studying analyst sentiments. There is a little analyst coverage of the stock, but not much. So there is room for it to gain more coverage. Insider Ownership Of Malaysia Building Society Berhad 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. I generally consider insider ownership to be a good thing. However, on some occasions it makes it more difficult for other shareholders to hold the board accountable for decisions. Our most recent data indicates that insiders own some shares in Malaysia Building Society Berhad. The insiders have a meaningful stake worth RM82m. Most would see this as a real positive. Most would say this shows 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 26% ownership, the general public, mostly comprising of individual investors, have some degree of sway over Malaysia Building Society Berhad. This size of ownership, while considerable, may not be enough to change company policy if the decision is not in sync with other large shareholders. Next Steps: I find it very interesting to look at who exactly owns a company. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. For example, we've discovered 1 warning sign for Malaysia Building Society Berhad that you should be aware of before investing here. If you are like me, you may want to think about whether this company will grow or shrink. Luckily, you can check this free report showing analyst forecasts for its future. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. BOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 28, 2023 / In anticipation of Boston Fintech Week 2023, presented by Fintech Sandbox, Mass Fintech Hub has announced plans to host four in-person events that will leverage the expertise and learnings of current members of Mass Fintech Hub to educate, inform and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders. These events will help bolster the collaborative's ongoing mission to advance fintech in the Commonwealth. "With special attention on the exciting innovations that are shaping our future, Mass Fintech Hub's programs during Fintech Week will leverage talent from across the Commonwealth and beyond, to address how fintech can bolster our economy and to engage the next generation of sector leaders," said Carolyn Kirk, executive director of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, a public economic development agency, and member of the Mass Fintech Hub. "Throughout the year, the Mass Fintech Hub hosts engaging events that spotlight a strong cross-section of leading Massachusetts sectors, including asset management, insurance, regional banking and the enabling tech that drives digital innovation. That continues during Boston Fintech Week, when a global audience will interact with our leading private sector companies, top thought leaders and world-class students." 2023 Boston Fintech Week programming will leverage the brilliant minds in the fintech and financial services industries throughout the Commonwealth and beyond to inspire and educate the next generation of leaders," said Carolyn Kirk, executive director of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative. "Even in the current dynamic environment, asset management, insurance, regional banking, and the enabling technologies remain a stronghold in Massachusetts, and we look forward to supporting the collaboration and innovation that this community has fostered across all Mass Fintech Hub programs and especially during this year's week-long event." Story continues Mass Fintech Hub's official lineup of event programming will include: Massachusetts Fintech Ecosystem Highlights Luncheon* Tuesday, October 10 from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Speakers: Mike Fanning of Mass Fintech Hub and formerly MassMutual; Sarah Biller of Fintech Sandbox; Pat Larkin of John Adams Innovation Institute and Massachusetts Technology Collaborative. Three years ago, a Massachusetts fintech ecosystem assessment detailed 16 recommendations to further support the sustainability and growth of the fintech and financial services industries in the Commonwealth. The result? The creation of Mass Fintech Hub to develop a strategic framework to further drive the ecosystem to achieve global leadership. Attendees will hear updates on the Mass Fintech Hub's impact as well as highlights from a forthcoming KPMG study including stakeholder insights from across the ecosystem and areas of strength and opportunity for the Massachusetts fintech ecosystem to continue thriving. The results will help inform the programming and services of the collaborative and its partners in 2024 and beyond. *This event is invite only. On the Brink: Fintech Bootcamp Tuesday, October 10 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Boston Federal Reserve Speakers: Mona Vernon of Fidelity Labs; Carlo Guerriero of Eastern Bank; Bill Gold of Citizens Bank; Claire Verville of M&T Bank; Mohammed Dastigir of MassMutual; Joe Mancini of BankProv; Rob Sarnie of Worcester Polytechnic Institute; Marcel Blais of Worcester Polytechnic Institute; Jason Hoch of the Mass Tech Collaborative - with more to be announced The Mass Fintech Hub will host its fourth bootcamp aimed at developing the fintech talent pipeline in Massachusetts. Developed for an audience of college and university students from Massachusetts and beyond with the goal of accelerating their career goals, the bootcamp will highlight two revolutionary technologies transforming the fintech landscape currently - generative AI and crypto - with insights from industry experts. From Fintech Operator to Angel Investor: Navigating Your Path Friday, October 13 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Boston Federal Reserve Speakers: Diane Hessan of Salient Ventures and Ashley Eknaian of Eastern Bank This fireside chat will feature Diane Hessan, a successful entrepreneur, marketer, author and experienced investor with a portfolio of angel investments. Previously, she was the CEO of Startup Institute, which is dedicated to helping people transform their careers to succeed in the exciting innovation economy, and is currently the Chairman of C Space, a next-generation market research company. Ashley is the Chief Digital Officer of Eastern Bank. She also co-leads the Mass Fintech Hub's Angel Investment programming. Whether you are interested in becoming an Angel Investor or want to understand how they operate so you can perfect your pitch as a Start-up founder, you won't want to miss this session! Fintech Forum: The Future of Insurance Innovation Friday, October 13 from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Boston Federal Reserve Speakers: John Rugel of MassMutual; Kartik Sakthivel of LIMRA and LOMA; Kate Terry of Surround Insurance; Richard Napolitano of Advisor 360 Wrapping up Mass Fintech Hub's programming for the week will be a panel featuring leaders from throughout the Massachusetts insurance industry and their fintech startup partners. Leaders will share their knowledge on what it takes to implement an "innovation agenda," while shedding light on their recommended best practices and pitfalls to enjoy. Networking opportunities will follow the 40-minute panel to encourage attendees to develop relationships with their peers. For more updates and to register for any of Mass Fintech Hub's programming, please visit our events page: https://massfintechhub.com/discover/events/. "Mass Fintech Hub's programming has been developed with the goal of fostering, sustaining and growing the fintech and financial services industries throughout Massachusetts to put ourselves on the map as a global leader," said Mike Fanning, Mass Fintech Hub Co-Chair & Former Head of MassMutual US. "This year's Boston Fintech Week programming is another reflection of that commitment and progression. We look forward to celebrating the successes we've had, while continuing to evolve and meet the needs of our ever-expanding community of students, entrepreneurs and industry leaders as identified by the ecosystem reassessment." As an initiative under Fintech Sandbox, a nonprofit enabling innovation in the financial sector, the Mass Fintech Hub aims to provide strong support and involvement through comprehensive programming for the sixth annual Boston Fintech Week, presented by Fintech Sandbox. The theme of the week will be On the Brink: Building the Infrastructure We Need for a Bold Financial Future, focusing on the revolutionary technologies and financial infrastructure transforming the entire fintech industry. For more details and to register for the overarching Boston Fintech Week 2023, visit BostonFintechWeek.org. Since its official launch in June 2021, the Mass Fintech Hub has welcomed a total of 50 members and hosted programming, including student career fairs, fintech career boot camps, student mentoring, angel investor courses, corporate-startup collaboration events and other panels and networking sessions, for more than 2,000 participants. Although the collaborative is largely focused on Massachusetts-based initiatives, organizations and individuals from outside Massachusetts are encouraged to participate and contribute to the growth and expansion of the evolving fintech ecosystem. About the Mass Fintech Hub The Mass Fintech Hub is a public-private partnership comprising a network of Fintech leaders, financial experts, academics, public sector leaders and venture capitalists who empower Fintech startups to achieve success around the world. The initiative supports the Fintech ecosystem through programs that attract investment, talent, collaboration and encourage regulatory innovation. The Mass Fintech Hub stimulates activity and connections, creates opportunities and aligns key stakeholders for a better entrepreneurial environment that supports Fintech startups in all development stages. Learn more here: www.massfintechhub.com/contact-us/. Contact Information: Emily Mann Caliber Corporate Advisers massfintechhub@calibercorporateadvisers.com SOURCE: FinTech Sandbox View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/788146/mass-fintech-hub-announces-programming-for-boston-fintech-week-2023 Memphis has lots to brag about this year. Memphis restaurants, businesses and more are racking up national "best of" honors from Fortune, Forbes, OpenTable and many others. Here is a look at some of the recent accolades. 2024 College Free Speech Rankings College Pulse and the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression's 2024 College Free Speech rankings included the University of Memphis, which came in at No. 39. Schools were analyzed based on students' First Amendment rights of speech, expression and assembly. U of M was categorized as slightly above average with an overall score of 56.14. You can find out more in this story from Angele Latham. Fortune's 50 Best Places to Live for Families Fortune released its list of the 50 Best Places to Live for Families, and Olive Branch came in at No. 36. Find out more in this story by Jacob Wilt. Inc. 5000's Fastest-Growing Private Companies Fourteen Memphis-area companies landed on the Inc. 5000 list, which ranks the 5,000 fastest-growing private companies nationwide. The Memphis companies are: Very Special Games Alpha Wolf Holdings Ships-a-Lot Meridian Pacific Properties Travel Nurses Neon Canvas Reliant Health Partners Allworld Project Management A3 Freight Payment Patrick Accounting and Tax Services Evolve Bank & Trust Memphis Capital 1Link Technology Clarion Security. You can find out more in this story from Jordan Green. LawnStarter 2023's Best BBQ Cities In August, LawnStarter released its list of best BBQ cities in America. While Memphis made the list, it's No. 4 ranking was well below where Memphians know the city belongs. The top three spots were 1. Kansas City, Missouri; 2. St. Louis; and 3. Kansas City, Kansas. Jennifer Chandler has more in this story. Money's Best Colleges in America 2023 Rhodes College made Money's list of Best Colleges in America for the second year in a row. You can read more in this story from John Klyce. OpenTable's Best Brunch Spots Coastal Fish Company is located on the banks of Hyde Lake in Shelby Farms Park. In May, Coastal Fish Company landed on OpenTable's list of Top 100 Brunch Spots. It was the only Memphis restaurant to make the list. Story continues You can find out more in this story from Jennifer Chandler. OpenTable's Most Popular Restaurants for Outdoor Dining Two months later, Coastal Fish Company landed on another OpenTable list: Most Popular Restaurants for Outdoor Dining. Read more on this ranking in this story by Bob Mehr. Southern Living's 9 Destinations to Visit by Train Aerial view of downtown Memphis on Thursday, April 9, 2020. The city of Memphis was included on Southern Living's list of the nine best places to visit by train in the South. It came in at No. 9 behind New Orleans and in front of Dallas. Southern Living's The South's Most Legendary Steakhouses Two Memphis restaurants made Southern Living's list of the South's Most Legendary Steakhouses. Buckley's Grill came in at No. 7, while Folk's Folly topped the list at No. 1. You can read more in this story from Jordan Green. Southern Living's South's Top 50 Barbecue Joints Manager Bobby Bradley prepares a pulled pork sandwich at Cozy Corner BBQ on Thursday, April 28, 2022. The most recent Southern Living list that included Memphis spots was its top 50 barbecue restaurants in the South. Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous ranked at No. 47, while Cozy Corner came in at No. 25. But the highest-ranking Memphis-area spot was A&R Bar-B-Que, which landed at No. 11. Read more in this story from Jennifer Chandler. USA TODAY's Best Historic Hotels As part of the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, The Peabody landed at No. 2 on the list of best historic hotels in the nation. It was second to the Historic Hotel Bethlehem in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Read more about it in this story from John Beifuss. USA TODAY's Best Hotel Restaurants Beef Tenderloin with Blue Cheese Espuma, Almond Tuille and Buttermilk Crumb at Chez Philippe in The Peabody Memphis hotel. Also as part of the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, Chez Philippe at The Peabody took the top spot on the list of Best Hotel Restaurants. Read more in this story from Jordan Green. USA TODAY's Best Hotel Bars Tiger and Peacock at The Memphian Hotel in Overton Square. Glennys Cowles Bryant at GCD Interiors was the interior designer. And one more honor as part of the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards: Tiger & Peacock at The Memphian in Overton Square took the No. 8 spot on the list of best hotel bars in the nation. You can find out more in this story from Jordan Green. Wine Spectator's 2023 Restaurant Awards Wine Spectator honored nine Memphis-area restaurants as part of its 2023 Restaurant Awards. These nine restaurants made the list: 117 Prime Bari Ristorante e Enoteca Char Restaurant Chez Philippe Coastal Fish Company Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar Porch & Parlor Prime Steakhouse Seasons 52 Capital Grille You can find out more in this story from Jennifer Chandler. Washington Post's Best Pizza by State The Washington Post went a little further than some other lists by ranking the most popular pizza style in each state. They then went through each state to find the best restaurants for each style of pizza in each state. For New York Style, New York Style Pizzeria in Collierville was ranked No. 4. For Chicago Style Pizza, East of Chicago Pizza in Germantown ranked No. 3, and Izzy and Adam's in Memphis ranked No. 1. Read more in this story from Mackensy Lunsford. Yelp's Best Steakhouse in Every State The entrance to Porch and Parlor can be seen in Memphis, Tenn., on Wednesday, June 7, 2023. Yelp created a list of the best steakhouse in every state, and for Tennessee, Porch & Parlor Prime Steakhouse landed at the top spot. Read more in this story from Jennifer Chandler. Jordan Green covers trending business news for The Commercial Appeal. She can be reached via email Jordan.Green@commercialappeal.com or on Twitter @_green_jordan_ This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Memphis restaurants, businesses, schools on national 'best of' lists (Bloomberg) -- Microsoft Corp. weighed investing multiple billions of dollars in a deal with Apple Inc. in 2016 to make its Bing search engine the default on the Safari browser and better compete with Alphabet Inc.s dominant Google, a Microsoft executive testified Thursday in court. Most Read from Bloomberg Microsoft Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella met with Apple CEO Tim Cook as part of the talks, said Jon Tinter, a Microsoft business development vice president who is on the stand during the US Justice Departments antitrust trial in Washington against Alphabet. Microsoft would have taken a multi-billion dollar loss on the terms of the deal, Tinter said, but it would have bolstered Bing, eventually allowing it to gain more market share and revenue. The software giant had secured a deal for Apple to use Bing in Siri and Spotlight, an Apple feature to help find apps on iPhones from 2013 to 2017, but wanted to expand that to Safari. Instead, Google wound up bolstering its own deal with Apple to include the products that had previously used Bing. This kind of search engine deal involves Microsoft or Google sharing with Apple revenue from ads linked to user queries. Because Bing was far smaller than Google, Microsoft would have had to offer Apple a far larger percentage of the revenue than Google and would have lost money on the deal, at least initially, Tinter said. In the short term it would have been highly negative. We told the board that we are thinking about making a multi-billion negative investment to support this, Tinter said. The terms were negative enough that Microsoft executives discussed with the board how to explain it to shareholders, he said. Story continues In 2018, Microsoft and Apple again had serious discussions about teaming up on search outside the US. Microsoft developed a playbook for the investments it would make to improve its search, Tinter said. It was all around trying to make them confident that we could make the switch, he said. Samsung defaults Microsoft also tried to persuade Samsung Electronics Co. to use its Bing search engine as the default on its smartphones, Tinter said. Even if the economics were superior in working with Microsoft, they would not move off Google, Tinter said of Samsung. In a Dec. 15, 2019 email shown in court, Tinter urged Nadella to stop pushing Samsungs then-president, Dong-Jin Koh, known as DJ, to switch the search default. I have gotten some pretty candid feedback from the Samsung team that DJ has clearly heard your desire to do something here, but they dont want to make a big move because of the partnership with Google but DJ is too polite to say no, Tinter wrote. Tinter said that for years, he urged the Samsung executives to at least allow Microsoft to make a bid for the search default on its phones, pointing to the Apple example. Even though we werent winning, we were helping Apple win more money and costing Google more money, Tinter said. But the Samsung executives said Jon, its not even worth it. We dont want to go down this path. (Adds details on Samsung negotiations beginning in seventh paragraph. An earlier version of the story corrected the spelling of Alphabet.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) -- A five-year truce between rivals Alphabet Inc. and Microsoft Corp. came crashing down in 2020 when the tech giants found themselves at odds over their competing web-search businesses, according to testimony at the US governments antitrust trial against Google. Most Read from Bloomberg After a decade of fights, the companies forged a non-aggression pact in 2016, wanting a fresh start to their acrimonious relationship. But three years ago, the situation began to fray, Jonathan Tinter, a Microsoft vice president of business development, testified Thursday in Washington. Alphabet insisted that Microsoft place a Google search widget on the main screen of its Surface Duo touchscreen smartphone device in order to license the Android operating system, rejecting the software companys request to use its own search engine, Bing, said Tinter, who negotiated the deal in the spring and summer of 2020. Google also prohibited Microsoft from instructing users how to switch the default search engine to Bing, he said. Ultimately, for the Duo to be successful we needed the license from Google, he said. We wanted the search entry points to be Bing. They wanted the search entry points to be Google. Tinter is one of several Microsoft executives to testify as part of the Justice Departments antitrust lawsuit against Google. Microsoft Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella is expected to take the stand next week. The government alleges Google has monopolized the online search market through contracts where it paid billions to Apple Inc. and smartphone makers to make its search engine the default on browsers and mobile devices. Google has said consumers like its search engine and its easy to switch. Story continues Microsoft and Google eventually reached a compromise on Duo for both search engines to appear on the device, Tinter said. A search widget, the Chrome browser and the Google Search app would all be on the phone and use Google, while Microsofts Edge, the devices default browser, would use Bing. Microsoft began taking orders for the $1,400 dual-screen folding Duo in August 2020, marking the companys return to the handset market following an ignominious retreat in 2016 after its acquisition of Nokia Oyjs handset unit resulted in a costly writedown. While it had some fans, the Duo fared poorly and within months Microsoft was already offering discounts on the product. Scarcely a year later it was selling for less than half the original sticker price. While the release of the Duo appeared to represent a thaw between the tech rivals, behind the scenes, the relationship was less friendly, Tinter said. Tinter said he personally advocated for strategic cooperation with Google, citing the success of Microsofts Office products on the Android platform. There was a debate about how much we should work with Google or not, he said. The Bing ads team was arguing we should not. The companies agreement on ending hostilities set out a formal, escalating process for handling disputes that might previously have gone directly to regulators. In March 2020, Microsoft formally complained to Google that its Search Ads 360, which lets marketers manage advertising campaigns across multiple search engines, wasnt keeping up with new features and ad types in Bing. The dispute triggered talks between the companies top lawyers Microsofts Brad Smith and Googles Kent Walker. Tinter was also involved, he said, discussing the issues with Googles Don Harrison, president of global partnerships and corporate development. Tinter said that in response to Microsofts escalation, Google officially complained about a problem with the terms of Microsofts cloud program that barred participation of the Google Drive products rival productivity software for word processing, email and spreadsheets. In response to questions by the Justice Department, Tinter said Microsoft had informally agreed to pay for Google to make the changes to SA360. It was half a negotiating strategy, Tinter said. Harrison said, This is too expensive. I said, Great let me pay for it. The two companies eventually negotiated a resolution about cloud, but couldnt resolve the problems with the search advertising tool, he said. As a result, nothing was ever signed on either issue, Tinter said. We ultimately walked away and did not reach an agreement, he said. Microsoft and Google also let their peace deal expire in 2021. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Selangor Dredging Berhad (KLSE:SDRED) stock is about to trade ex-dividend in 3 days. The ex-dividend date occurs one day before the record date which is the day on which shareholders need to be on the company's books in order to receive a dividend. The ex-dividend date is an important date to be aware of as any purchase of the stock made on or after this date might mean a late settlement that doesn't show on the record date. Meaning, you will need to purchase Selangor Dredging Berhad's shares before the 2nd of October to receive the dividend, which will be paid on the 13th of October. The company's next dividend payment will be RM0.025 per share, and in the last 12 months, the company paid a total of RM0.025 per share. Looking at the last 12 months of distributions, Selangor Dredging Berhad has a trailing yield of approximately 4.2% on its current stock price of MYR0.59. Dividends are a major contributor to investment returns for long term holders, but only if the dividend continues to be paid. That's why we should always check whether the dividend payments appear sustainable, and if the company is growing. See our latest analysis for Selangor Dredging Berhad Dividends are usually paid out of company profits, so if a company pays out more than it earned then its dividend is usually at greater risk of being cut. Selangor Dredging Berhad paid out 61% of its earnings to investors last year, a normal payout level for most businesses. Selangor Dredging Berhad paid a dividend despite reporting negative free cash flow last year. That's typically a bad combination and - if this were more than a one-off - not sustainable. Click here to see how much of its profit Selangor Dredging Berhad paid out over the last 12 months. Have Earnings And Dividends Been Growing? Companies with falling earnings are riskier for dividend shareholders. Investors love dividends, so if earnings fall and the dividend is reduced, expect a stock to be sold off heavily at the same time. Readers will understand then, why we're concerned to see Selangor Dredging Berhad's earnings per share have dropped 16% a year over the past five years. Ultimately, when earnings per share decline, the size of the pie from which dividends can be paid, shrinks. Story continues The main way most investors will assess a company's dividend prospects is by checking the historical rate of dividend growth. Selangor Dredging Berhad has seen its dividend decline 1.8% per annum on average over the past 10 years, which is not great to see. The Bottom Line Is Selangor Dredging Berhad an attractive dividend stock, or better left on the shelf? Earnings per share have been declining and the company is paying out more than half its profits to shareholders; not an enticing combination. It might be worth researching if the company is reinvesting in growth projects that could grow earnings and dividends in the future, but for now we're on the fence about its dividend prospects. So if you want to do more digging on Selangor Dredging Berhad, you'll find it worthwhile knowing the risks that this stock faces. Be aware that Selangor Dredging Berhad is showing 4 warning signs in our investment analysis, and 2 of those are potentially serious... A common investing mistake is buying the first interesting stock you see. Here you can find a full list of high-yield dividend stocks. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Copa Holdings (CPA) has been one of the most searched-for stocks on Zacks.com lately. So, you might want to look at some of the facts that could shape the stock's performance in the near term. Shares of this holding company for Panama's national airline have returned -15.7% over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -2.8% change. The Zacks Transportation - Airline industry, to which Copa Holdings belongs, has lost 10% over this period. Now the key question is: Where could the stock be headed in the near term? Although media reports or rumors about a significant change in a company's business prospects usually cause its stock to trend and lead to an immediate price change, there are always certain fundamental factors that ultimately drive the buy-and-hold decision. Revisions to Earnings Estimates Rather than focusing on anything else, we at Zacks prioritize evaluating the change in a company's earnings projection. This is because we believe the fair value for its stock is determined by the present value of its future stream of earnings. Our analysis is essentially based on how sell-side analysts covering the stock are revising their earnings estimates to take the latest business trends into account. When earnings estimates for a company go up, the fair value for its stock goes up as well. And when a stock's fair value is higher than its current market price, investors tend to buy the stock, resulting in its price moving upward. Because of this, empirical studies indicate a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and short-term stock price movements. Copa Holdings is expected to post earnings of $3.52 per share for the current quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +21%. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed -4%. For the current fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $14.38 points to a change of +74.1% from the prior year. Over the last 30 days, this estimate has changed -1%. Story continues For the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $15.33 indicates a change of +6.6% from what Copa Holdings is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has changed -1%. Having a strong externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool, the Zacks Rank, offers a more conclusive picture of a stock's price direction in the near term, since it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions. Due to the size of the recent change in the consensus estimate, along with three other factors related to earnings estimates, Copa Holdings is rated Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). The chart below shows the evolution of the company's forward 12-month consensus EPS estimate: 12 Month EPS Revenue Growth Forecast Even though a company's earnings growth is arguably the best indicator of its financial health, nothing much happens if it cannot raise its revenues. It's almost impossible for a company to grow its earnings without growing its revenue for long periods. Therefore, knowing a company's potential revenue growth is crucial. For Copa Holdings, the consensus sales estimate for the current quarter of $863.91 million indicates a year-over-year change of +6.7%. For the current and next fiscal years, $3.42 billion and $3.59 billion estimates indicate +15.3% and +5% changes, respectively. Last Reported Results and Surprise History Copa Holdings reported revenues of $809.19 million in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +16.7%. EPS of $3.92 for the same period compares with $0.32 a year ago. Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $797.03 million, the reported revenues represent a surprise of +1.53%. The EPS surprise was +20.62%. The company beat consensus EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters. The company topped consensus revenue estimates three times over this period. Valuation No investment decision can be efficient without considering a stock's valuation. Whether a stock's current price rightly reflects the intrinsic value of the underlying business and the company's growth prospects is an essential determinant of its future price performance. While comparing the current values of a company's valuation multiples, such as price-to-earnings (P/E), price-to-sales (P/S) and price-to-cash flow (P/CF), with its own historical values helps determine whether its stock is fairly valued, overvalued, or undervalued, comparing the company relative to its peers on these parameters gives a good sense of the reasonability of the stock's price. As part of the Zacks Style Scores system, the Zacks Value Style Score (which evaluates both traditional and unconventional valuation metrics) organizes stocks into five groups ranging from A to F (A is better than B; B is better than C; and so on), making it helpful in identifying whether a stock is overvalued, rightly valued, or temporarily undervalued. Copa Holdings is graded A on this front, indicating that it is trading at a discount to its peers. Click here to see the values of some of the valuation metrics that have driven this grade. Conclusion The facts discussed here and much other information on Zacks.com might help determine whether or not it's worthwhile paying attention to the market buzz about Copa Holdings. However, its Zacks Rank #3 does suggest that it may perform in line with the broader market in the near term. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Copa Holdings, S.A. (CPA) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research WASHINGTON, Sept. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Following is a statement from Eileen O'Reilly, president of the National Press Club, and Gil Klein, president of the National Press Club Journalism Institute, on the decision by China to delay a verdict in sentencing well-known Chinese journalist, Yuyu Dong for alleged acts of espionage. NATIONAL PRESS CLUB LOGO. (PRNewsFoto/NATIONAL PRESS CLUB) (PRNewsfoto/National Press Club) (PRNewsfoto/National Press Club) "China is the world's No. 1 jailer of journalists, so convicting journalists as a form of punishment is nothing new for them. But, delaying the verdict in the espionage case of journalist Yuyu Dong may signal a new and very dangerous era has begun. Mr. Dong is not a spy, so China had no evidence to present at trial. They delayed the verdict until Sept. 27. Now they are delaying again for three months. If they had even a shred of evidence they would have convicted him a year ago. Yet, Mr. Dong is the most senior and most prominent Chinese journalist known to be unjustly imprisoned in China. He is well known to the academic and journalism communities in Japan and the U.S. He is the epitome of the kind of people-to-people exchanges that China has been working so hard to establish and maintain for the past 30 years. That era is now over. In its place is China's new anti-espionage act where any scholar or journalist (even the dean of the Beijing press corps) who is in contact with universities or similar communities overseas is in danger of being jailed for espionage. The trial for this case took place in secret in late July. Mr. Dong's family and friends were not allowed to attend. No press was allowed to attend the trial. There is no published record for the public to read. This is how journalists are sent to prison in China. Mr. Dong was arrested in February 2022. He was held for 18 months without charges or a trial. Now that is being extended another three months. This Sunday is China's National Day. And in November, President Xi is expected to attend the APEC conference in California. China does not want stories about Mr. Dong's unjust detention in the news during those days. Story continues Why doesn't China turn this into a positive by letting Mr. Dong go? He has already served 18 months, during which time he has not been allowed to see or talk to his family. On behalf of all National Press Club members and journalists everywhere, we call on China to end this delayed verdict and send Mr. Dong home. " Founded in 1908, the National Press Club is the world's leading professional organization for journalists. With 3,000 members representing nearly every major journalism organization, the Club is a leading voice for press freedom worldwide. The National Press Club Journalism Institute promotes an engaged, global, citizenry, through an independent and free press. The Institute is the non-profit arm of the National Press Club. Contact: Bill McCarren, 202-662-7534 for the National Press Club Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/national-press-club-statement-on-chinas-delay-of-verdict-in-yuyu-dong-case-301941069.html SOURCE National Press Club With DocuTrade, Yodaplus is seamlessly blending the rich legacy of trade finance with the boundless potential of the digital age MUMBAI, India, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The global trade finance sector, pivotal to international commerce, has long been anchored by traditional paper-based practices. From bills of lading to promissory notes, the tangible nature of these documents has been both a symbol of trust and at the same time, a source of inefficiency. In a world increasingly dictated by speed, efficiency, and environmental concerns, these age-old paper-bound practices have been a growing concern. Nilesh Pathak, Blockchain Head, Yodaplus (first from right) at the launch of DocuTrade at GTR Asia 2023, Singapore In an era where global trade remains tethered to traditional paper-based practices, the need for digitization has never been more pressing. The United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) took a transformative step with the introduction of the Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR) in 2017. Designed to be a beacon for the digital evolution of trade documentation, MLETR offers a structured approach to transition from paper-based negotiable instruments to electronic formats, without compromising their legal sanctity or international credibility. Stepping into this evolving landscape, Yodaplus recently introduced DocuTrade a documentation solution optimized for today's digital age, yet deeply respectful of the legacy and intricacies of trade finance. Aligned with UNCITRAL- MLETR's principles, DocuTrade not only streamlines trade operations but also champions the major tenets of MLETR: technology neutrality, functional equivalency, and cross-border recognition. DocuTrade simplifies the intricate process of trade documentation and also ensures that digital documents maintain the same legal standing as their paper equivalents. The result is a secure and efficient trade environment, empowering businesses to concentrate on growth. Nilesh Pathak, the BU Head of Blockchain at Yodaplus , sheds light on the solution's core objectives, "With DocuTrade, we aim to bridge the historical with the futuristic. The global trade finance industry stands at a crossroads, and we're dedicated to ensuring that the path to digital transformation is seamless, secure, and aligned with international standards." Story continues While MLETR sets forth a robust framework, its global adoption is on an upward trajectory. Leading jurisdictions like Bahrain, Singapore, and the Abu Dhabi Global Market have already embraced its guidelines. Now, economic powerhouses such as the UK, Germany, and France are making strides towards its implementation. The aftermath of the COVID pandemic has only accelerated the push towards digital solutions in trade finance. Amidst this sea change, platforms like DocuTrade are poised to be at the forefront, leading the digital transformation journey. About Yodaplus DocuTrade Yodaplus DocuTrade is a beacon of innovation in the global trade finance sector. By offering a meticulous digital solution that resonates with the UNCITRAL MLETR framework, DocuTrade aspires to redefine trade finance for the modern era. It embodies a commitment to innovation, security, and efficiency, making it an indispensable asset for businesses, banks, and trade finance stakeholders across the globe. Dive deeper into the future of trade finance at https://docutrade.yodaplus.com/ About Yodaplus Headquartered in Mumbai, Yodaplus is an esteemed IT service firm renowned for its excellence in digital transformation, blockchain technology, trade finance digitization, AI, and IoT. Led by Vishrut Srivastava, the company consistently delivers pioneering tech solutions that serve a global clientele, touching every corner from the US and UK to the UAE and Singapore. Visit: https://yodaplus.com/ to know more about Yodaplus. Press Contact Amit Pareek Senior Marketing Manager amitp@yodaplus.com Yodaplus TechnologiesLogo Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/navigating-the-future-yodapluss-docutrade-at-the-forefront-of-the-trade-finance-evolution-301937634.html SOURCE Yodaplus Technologies SINGAPORE, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- NEC Asia Pacific (NEC APAC), leader in the integration of IT and network technologies, and the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) have partnered to create an innovative and high-tech network infrastructure for SIT's upcoming campus in the Punggol Digital District. An artist's rendering of SIT Punggol Campus. (Image courtesy of the Singapore Institute of Technology) Working closely with trusted technology partners, NEC will lead the design, supply, delivery, and commissioning of a tailor-made wired and wireless network infrastructure, alongside a robust firewall system, customized exclusively for the university's new campus. This partnership will elevate SIT's educational experience and research capabilities with the latest in network solutions. Yeo Jack Ming, Vice President, Enterprise Infrastructure Business Unit, NEC APAC, said, "We are delighted to collaborate with SIT on this transformative project. Our joint efforts, together with support from our partners, will create a technologically advanced campus that enriches the educational experience and empowers the next generation of innovators." Chong Fook Weng, Associate Vice President and Chief IT Officer, Communications & Information Technology, SIT, said, "SIT is excited to embark on this transformative journey with NEC to build a campus infrastructure that will position SIT at the forefront of educational innovation. The robust network infrastructure will transform education and innovation by empowering students and faculty members to learn and collaborate in a secure environment." Key highlights of the new network infrastructure at SIT's upcoming Punggol Campus include: Customized network design - NEC will spearhead the design and deployment of a tailor-made wired and wireless network infrastructure optimized for the new campus. The new network infrastructure will be strategically engineered to enhance connectivity and collaboration between students, faculty and researchers. Industry-leading technology - SIT is able to accelerate digital transformation through automated network management and edge-to-cloud security. The scalable network infrastructure will cater to the growing demands of modern education, enabling seamless online learning, research and data-intensive activities to ensure the newest SIT campus remains at the forefront of innovation. With an extensibility feature to customise and integrate with other frameworks, SIT is able to gain access to Experience Insights and Location-based services. Robust cybersecurity Leveraging superior cybersecurity capabilities, SIT can enjoy a state-of-the-art firewall system that ensures the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data. This safeguard will provide a secure environment for academic and research-related activities, and allow SIT the full visibility of their IoT assets. Story continues This partnership represents NEC's commitment to empowering societies through technology. Together with like-minded technology partners, NEC is committed to fostering an environment where the future generation will be equipped to harness technology for good. About NEC Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd. Singapore-based NEC Asia Pacific (NEC APAC) is the regional headquarters for NEC Corporation (HQ: Japan) in Southeast Asia. As a leading information and communications technology provider, NEC APAC provides innovative solutions and infrastructure to promote safety, security and enhance the quality of life for individuals and the community. NEC APAC's expertise includes solutions for carrier networks, biometric identification, enterprise applications and infrastructure, unified communications, transportation solutions, multimedia displays and smart energy, as well as the provision of managed services and contact centre services. Together with our research laboratories, NEC APAC provides cutting-edge public safety, cybersecurity technologies and enterprise solutions to enable safer cities, with a vision to create a brighter future. For more information, please visit https://sg.nec.com. About the Singapore Institute of Technnology The Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) is Singapore's first University of Applied Learning, offering industry-relevant degree programmes that prepare its graduates to be work- and future-ready professionals. Its mission is to maximise the potential of its learners and to innovate with industry, through an integrated applied learning and research approach, so as to contribute to the economy and society. The University's unique pedagogy integrates work and study, embracing authentic learning in a real-world environment through collaborations with key strategic partners. Its focus on applied research with business impact is aimed at helping industry innovate and grow. Targeted to be ready in 2024, SIT's centralised campus within the larger Punggol Digital District will feature a vibrant learning environment where academia and industry will be tightly integrated with the community. For more information, visit www.SingaporeTech.edu.sg. (PRNewsfoto/NEC APAC Pte Ltd) Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/nec-and-sit-partner-to-deploy-state-of-the-art-network-infrastructure-for-sits-upcoming-campus-in-punggol-digital-district-301941149.html SOURCE NEC APAC Pte Ltd Long-established in the Utilities - Regulated industry, NiSource Inc (NYSE:NI) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. However, it has recently witnessed a daily loss of 1.21%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of -7.08%. Fresh insights from the GF Score 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 NiSource Inc. Is NiSource Inc (NI) Set to Underperform? Analyzing the Factors Limiting Growth What Is 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 NiSource Inc the GF Score of 69 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential. Understanding NiSource Inc Business NiSource is one of the nation's largest natural gas distribution companies with approximately 3.2 million customers in Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. NiSource's electric utility transmits and distributes electricity in northern Indiana to about 500,000 customers. The regulated electric utility also owns more than 3,000 megawatts of generation capacity, most of which is now coal-fired but is being replaced by natural gas and renewable energy. With a market cap of $10.28 billion and sales of $5.85 billion, the company operates with a margin of 20.9%. Story continues Is NiSource Inc (NI) Set to Underperform? Analyzing the Factors Limiting Growth Financial Strength Breakdown NiSource Inc's financial strength indicators present some concerning insights about the company's balance sheet health. The company's interest coverage ratio of 2.97 positions it worse than 62.04% of 432 companies in the Utilities - Regulated 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 0.53, 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 0.01 indicates a struggle in handling existing debt levels. Furthermore, the company's debt-to-Ebitda ratio is 5.97, which is above Joel Tillinghast's warning level of 4 and is worse than 71.56% of 443 companies in the Utilities - Regulated 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 NiSource Inc seems to falter, as evidenced by the company's low Growth rank. The company's revenue has declined by -1.6 per year over the past three years, which underperforms worse than 86.42% of 486 companies in the Utilities - Regulated industry. Stagnating revenues may pose concerns in a fast-evolving market. Lastly, NiSource Inc predictability rank is just one star out of five, adding to investor uncertainty regarding revenue and earnings consistency. Is NiSource Inc (NI) Set to Underperform? Analyzing the Factors Limiting Growth Next Steps Given the company's financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GF Score highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential underperformance. While NiSource Inc has a rich history in the Utilities - Regulated industry, its current financial health and growth prospects 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. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images OpenAI is in talks for a share sale that could value it at $80 billion-$90 billion, the Wall Street Journal reported. Instead of issuing new shares to raise capital, a potential deal would allow employees to sell their existing shares. A $90 billion valuation would make OpenAI one of the most highly valuated global startups. OpenAI is in talks for a share sale that could value the ChatGPT parent at $80 billion-$90 billion, sources told the Wall Street Journal, potentially vaulting it among the world's top startups. Instead of issuing new shares to raise capital, a potential deal would allow employees to sell their existing shares to investors, the report said. The high end of the valuation range would be triple what it worth early this year, when Microsoft poured billions of dollars into the AI company in a deal that valued it at around $30 billion. The tech titan now owns a 49% stake in OpenAI, which the Journal said will not let Microsoft participate in any financing rounds that would increase its stake beyond 50%. In addition, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has said he doesn't see the company going public or putting itself up for sale. But the company still needs to pay for the intensive computing costs required to run the generative AI technology, and the Journal said OpenAI seeks to sell "a few hundred million dollars worth" of existing shares to Silicon Valley investors. OpenAI didn't immediately respond to Insider's request for comment. Should a deal go through, the company would become one of the most highly valued global startups, ranking behind only TikTok parent ByteDance ($225 billion) and Elon Musk's SpaceX ($137 billion), according to CB Insights. For now, OpenAI sees big growth in its future as more and more businesses embrace artificial intelligence. The company currently makes money off of subscriptions for its more-advanced version of ChatGPT, GPT-4, and by licensing the large language models used to develop AI bots to businesses. Story continues OpenAI has told investors that it expects to hit $1 billion in revenue this year, on track to generate billions more in 2024, the Journal reported. But it's not immune from competitors. Ever since OpenAI dropped a bomb on the tech world with the ChatGPT launch late last year, Google, Meta and several other tech companies have been working on rival AI models. And earlier this week, Amazon invested $4 billion in ChatGPT competitor Anthropic. Read the original article on Business Insider JERUSALEM, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hebrew University of Jerusalem today announces an unprecedented donation from the Paulson Family Foundation for the construction of a new building to be named the "Paulson-Barel" building, within the Rachel and Selim Benin School of Computer Science and Engineering, located on the Edmond J. Safra Campus in Givat Ram. The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Logo The donation will improve and enrich the experience of Hebrew University's students and researchers, who are in high demand in the Israeli and international hi-tech industry. The Hebrew University's School of Computer Science and Engineering has been the birthplace of some of the world's leading hi-tech companies, including Mobileye and Lightricks. This gift from the U.S.-based Paulson Family Foundation will enable the construction of the fourth building in the computer science complex, thus expanding and upgrading the School's learning spaces and research laboratories. The new building will feature state-of-the-art education facilities including 7,000 sq. meters (75,300 sq ft.) of special laboratories, teaching rooms, office space, and computer stations in the labs and open areas. Prof. Asher Cohen, President of the Hebrew University: "Over the last decade, we have increased threefold the number of students at the School of Computer Science and Engineering. Thus, the current complex, which comprises three buildings, will be at full capacity by the end of 2024. The construction of this fourth building will enable us to meet the huge demand for the outstanding hi-tech personnel that the University produces. The Paulson Family Foundation's generous donation will allow us to continue supporting the Israeli hi-tech industry in the best possible way." The Paulson Family Foundation was founded in 2009 by John Paulson, President of Paulson & Co., a global investment company. The Foundation invests in education, science, health, culture, and the arts. Story continues John Paulson, Founder and Chairman of the Foundation: "Israel's quality higher education is largely responsible for the country's technology boom and rapid economic development. This gift will ensure that the Hebrew University has the resources to meet the growing demand for computer science and engineering education." Prof. Sara Cohen, Dean of the School of Computer Science and Engineering: "We are immensely grateful to the Paulson Family Foundation for this generous donation, which will significantly improve the learning and research experience of our students and researchers, who are influencing the future of our field on a daily basis. The new building will provide these sharpest of minds, who are present on campus around the clock, with modern learning and research spaces to the highest international standards, and will also be the home of an AI research center that we are in the process of establishing". Joshua Rednik, Chief Executive Officer, American Friends of the Hebrew University: "This is a truly transformational gift from one of America's most successful investors. His contribution to developing the next generation of computer scientists is a worthy endeavor that will advance the industry at a global level and especially within the State of Israel." About the Hebrew University of Jerusalem The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is Israel's leading academic and research institution. Serving some 24,000 students from 80 countries, it produces a third of Israel's civilian research and is ranked 12th worldwide in biotechnology patent filings and commercial development. Faculty and alumni of the Hebrew University have won eight Nobel Prizes and a Fields Medal. For more information about the Hebrew University, please visit http://new.huji.ac.il/en. About American Friends of the Hebrew University American Friends of the Hebrew University (AFHU) is a national, not-for-profit organization based in the United States. AFHU is headquartered in New York and has seven regional offices working in close partnership with the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. AFHU provides supporters, Hebrew University alumni, and the public with stimulating programs and events, and organizes missions to Israel. The organization's activities support scholarly and scientific achievement at HU, create scholarships, fund new facilities, and assist the university's efforts to recruit outstanding new faculty. For more information, please visit http://www.afhu.org. Follow us on: Facebook | Linkedin | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube Media Contacts Paulson Family Foundation Steve Bruce / Morgan Davis ASC Advisors 203-992-1230 sbruce@ascadvisors.com / mdavis@ascadvisors.com Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-paulson-family-foundation-donates-27m-for-a-new-building-at-hebrew-universitys-school-of-computer-science-and-engineering-301941938.html SOURCE The Hebrew University of Jerusalem FIVE YEARS ago Novo Nordisk was a boring Danish drugmaker whose diabetes medications were reliably profitable. The only time the company made headlines was when it was caught up in complaints about the high cost of insulin. Then in 2021 a trial of its diabetes drug, Ozempic (semaglutide), showed that people taking it lost weight. A great deal of weightup to 15% of their body mass. Pens for the Diabetes drug Ozempic are assembled at Novo Nordisk's production site in Hillerod, Denmark. REUTERS/Tom Little Excitement about the drug has kept Novo Nordisk in the headlines. Its market value has nearly quadrupled in the past five years. Earlier this month it reached $444 billion, handbagging LVMH, a purveyor of luxury goods, off its perch as Europes most valuable company. Novo Nordisks main rival, Eli Lilly, which has a similar drug called Mounjaro (tirzepatide), is worth $522 billion, more than four times what it was at the start of 2019. It isnt just investors who are jubilant. Not long ago Morgan Stanley, a bank, estimated that global sales of such weight-management drugs could reach $54 billion annually by 2030. Now it puts the figure at $77 billion. By comparison, last year they raked in just $2.4 billion. The potential bonanza is attracting imitators. These include big pharma (for instance, Amgen, Boehringer Ingelheim and Pfizer), not-so-big pharma (Jiangsu Hengrui, Structure Therapeutics) and biotech startups (Carmot Therapeutics in California, Gmax Biopharm and Sciwind Biosciences in Hangzhou). It is not the first time in pharmaceutical history that a class of drugs has been ignored, only to spur a gold rush when a successful medicine emerges. The arrival of Prozac (fluoxetine) in 1987 spawned many competitors, leading to the broad range of similar antidepressants available today. The weight-management newcomers will be hoping their drugs can, like some of Prozacs rivals, improve on the first-movers. One important improvement would be a drug that can be gulped down rather than injected, as Mounjaro and Ozempics weight-loss version, Wegovy, need to be. Pfizers needle-free option, danuglipron, is in the second phase of clinical trials (out of the necessary three). The company is expected to announce plans for further trials later this year. Story continues A lot of effort is also going into limiting the drugs side effects. The ones currently available make many people feel nauseous. That may lead some patients to stop taking thema problem, given that their fat-suppressing effect wears off as soon as they are no longer administered. Novo Nordisk is experimenting with adding a hormone called amylin, which it hopes might make Wegovy more tolerable. Efforts are under way, too, to make the drugs more effective and longer-acting. Work is going into testing whether they can help patients counteract compulsive behaviour other than overeating, such as alcoholism. And trials are being conducted to see whether they bring broader health benefits. One recent trial showed that Wegovy was able to reduce the risk of death from heart attacks, strokes and other cardiovascular causes by 20%. Just how useful the drugs will prove beyond helping people lose weight remains unclear. Despite Wegovys promising trial, Airfinity, a firm of analysts, recently calculated that 63 people would need to be treated with it over three years at a combined cost of $1.1 million to prevent one cardiovascular death. However, more data on the medical benefits of these drugs could also add to their perceived value. A 0.25 mg injection pen of Novo Nordisk's weight-loss drug Wegovy. REUTERS/Victoria Klesty/Illustration This in turn would make them more palatable to those who foot the bill, such as public health-care systems or private health insurers. Those payers are nervous about the high cost, particularly as the drugs must, in their current iteration, be taken indefinitely. In Europe, prices range from 170 to 357 ($180 to $375) a month. In America, the list price of Wegovy is about $1,350 a month. Health insurers are cautious: so far only 40 million of the 110 million Americans with obesity have access to the drugs through their health insurance. Raymond Stevens, boss of Structure Therapeutics, says that the long-run future of pricing remains hazy. Competition from firms like his could force prices down. On the other hand, innovations in delivery or tolerability could lift them back up. The short term is more predictable. Despite Eli Lillys and Novo Nordisks efforts to ramp up production, demand from an overweight world will continue to outstrip supply. That is a formula for healthy profits. To stay on top of the biggest stories in business and technology, sign up to the Bottom Line, 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 https://www.economist.com/business/2023/09/28/pharmas-big-push-for-a-new-generation-of-obesity-drugs The future of a vacant church in the historic Evergreen neighborhood will remain in limbo at least a little longer. On Wednesday, the Memphis and Shelby County Board of Adjustment (BOA) voted 5-2, denying a pair of proposals for the redevelopment of 1663 Autumn Ave. The proposed renovation plan from developer Laurynas Petrauskas, Kate Haywood of Daily Design Group and restaurateur John Paul Gagliano included repurposing the historic property, which dates back to 1911, into 10 apartments with a cafe and bakery on the ground floor. The property sits on the intersection of Autumn Avenue and Dickerson Street and was originally the Evergreen Presbyterian Church. This isnt a profit-driven project," Petrauskas said. "We just want to see the building restored." The proposed plan was recommended for approval via a BOA staff report. That report included 95 letters of opposition (only five letters in support of the project were submitted), with approximately 30 of the opposing Evergreen residents in attendance at Wednesdays meeting. The attendees were holding up signs that read Vote no and Save Evergreen, throughout the duration of the Board of Adjustment meeting. Evergreen residents hold up "Vote No" signs during the Memphis and Shelby County Board of Adjustment meeting on Sept. 27, 2023. Prior to the meeting, many of the opposing residents shared concerns over the potential increases in vehicular traffic a cafe and bakery would bring, in addition to worries over how trash removal and HVAC would be handled for the mixed-use. We want to save the building, but believe there is a better way to do this, Evergreen resident Caroline Smith said. During the presentation, Haywood shared a second alteration to the plan that scrapped the commercial portion and added two more residential units. She said the number of bedrooms hadnt changed, they had always planned on adding 12 bedrooms to the property, but the number of units was the change. It was the only other alternative they could come up with that was still financially viable for preservation. The change was a result of feedback and opposition to the commercial portion of the property. Story continues During the meeting, the opposition shared concerns over parking and the increased density the number of apartments would bring along with a commercial space. HOTELS IN MEMPHIS: 'Small hotels don't help': Why Memphis' lack of large hotels is an 'Achilles' heel' Board chair Tim Rainey echoed those concerns adding that the existing church takes up so much space he was unsure if there is enough property there to add 12 residential units. The building owner, Frank Smith, explained he acquired the building during a nuisance lawsuit that was previously filed and that many residents had wanted to see the church torn down. Im a preservationist at heart, Smith said. Smith, who aided in the Clayborn Temple restoration project, added that he had reached out for community input since acquiring the property. He contacted Petrauskas and Gagliano, who also reside in the Evergreen neighborhood, to help with the project and come up with a plan for restoration. During the meeting, Petrauskas spoke out against the residents saying they wanted the church preserved. He said over the last nine months, they have not received positive feedback or cooperation with residents and reiterated that the initial nuisance complaint from the opposition group called for demolition. Inside the former church at 1663 Autumn Ave. Local developers wanted to restore the historic property into a mixed-use space with 10 apartment units and a ground floor bakery and cafe area The initial proposal included a cafe and bakery that would be operated by Gagliano. Gagliano also owns and operates the nearby Ecco at Overton Park and Tonica locations along with Libro at Laurelwood in East Memphis. During the meeting, Gagliano said he received complaints regarding the cafe and bakery plans and threats that residents would boycott his existing restaurants if this plan was approved. We have a plan before us and we dont have any others, board member Mary Baker said. I still dont believe it is the right means for this property it is not the right location for that kind of density. MANE STREET MEMPHIS: Big plans for the former Racquet Club in East Memphis. What to expect With the rejection, property owner Frank Smith said it's likely demolition will be the next step. Smith purchased the property in January 2023 for $58,700, according to the Shelby County Register of Deeds. When asked if the neighborhood association would support demolition of the property, Caroline Smith said she doesnt see demolition as the only option and wants to see the entire community involved in any future discussion for the site. We want to have a discussion and find a solution as a community, Smith said. Neil Strebig is a journalist with The Commercial Appeal. He can be reached at neil.strebig@commercialappeal.com, 901-426-0679 or via X/Twitter, @neilStrebig This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Plan to redevelop church in Memphis' Evergreen neighborhood rejected With its stock down 9.1% over the past three months, it is easy to disregard Genting Singapore (SGX:G13). We decided to study the company's financials to determine if the downtrend will continue as the long-term performance of a company usually dictates market outcomes. In this article, we decided to focus on Genting Singapore's ROE. Return on equity or ROE is a key measure used to assess how efficiently a company's management is utilizing the company's capital. In simpler terms, it measures the profitability of a company in relation to shareholder's equity. View our latest analysis for Genting Singapore How Is ROE Calculated? ROE can be calculated by using the formula: Return on Equity = Net Profit (from continuing operations) Shareholders' Equity So, based on the above formula, the ROE for Genting Singapore is: 6.6% = S$532m S$8.0b (Based on the trailing twelve months to June 2023). The 'return' refers to a company's earnings over the last year. So, this means that for every SGD1 of its shareholder's investments, the company generates a profit of SGD0.07. What Has ROE Got To Do With Earnings Growth? We have already established that ROE serves as an efficient profit-generating gauge for a company's future earnings. We now need to evaluate how much profit the company reinvests or "retains" for future growth which then gives us an idea about the growth potential of the company. Assuming all else is equal, companies that have both a higher return on equity and higher profit retention are usually the ones that have a higher growth rate when compared to companies that don't have the same features. Genting Singapore's Earnings Growth And 6.6% ROE When you first look at it, Genting Singapore's ROE doesn't look that attractive. However, given that the company's ROE is similar to the average industry ROE of 6.6%, we may spare it some thought. But Genting Singapore saw a five year net income decline of 24% over the past five years. Remember, the company's ROE is a bit low to begin with. Therefore, the decline in earnings could also be the result of this. Story continues Next, when we compared with the industry, which has shrunk its earnings at a rate of 8.5% in the same 5-year period, we still found Genting Singapore's performance to be quite bleak, because the company has been shrinking its earnings faster than the industry. Earnings growth is an important metric to consider when valuing a stock. What investors need to determine next is if the expected earnings growth, or the lack of it, is already built into the share price. This then helps them determine if the stock is placed for a bright or bleak future. Is Genting Singapore fairly valued compared to other companies? These 3 valuation measures might help you decide. Is Genting Singapore Efficiently Re-investing Its Profits? With a high three-year median payout ratio of 100% (implying that 0.3% of the profits are retained), most of Genting Singapore's profits are being paid to shareholders, which explains the company's shrinking earnings. With only a little being reinvested into the business, earnings growth would obviously be low or non-existent. Additionally, Genting Singapore has paid dividends over a period of at least ten years, which means that the company's management is determined to pay dividends even if it means little to no earnings growth. Existing analyst estimates suggest that the company's future payout ratio is expected to drop to 67% over the next three years. As a result, the expected drop in Genting Singapore's payout ratio explains the anticipated rise in the company's future ROE to 8.1%, over the same period. Summary Overall, we would be extremely cautious before making any decision on Genting Singapore. Particularly, its ROE is a huge disappointment, not to mention its lack of proper reinvestment into the business. As a result its earnings growth has also been quite disappointing. With that said, we studied the latest analyst forecasts and found that while the company has shrunk its earnings in the past, analysts expect its earnings to grow in the future. To know more about the latest analysts predictions for the company, check out this visualization of analyst forecasts for the company. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. PZ Cussons (LON:PZC) Full Year 2023 Results Key Financial Results Revenue: UK656.3m (up 11% from FY 2022). Net income: UK36.4m (down 28% from FY 2022). Profit margin: 5.5% (down from 8.5% in FY 2022). The decrease in margin was driven by higher expenses. EPS: UK0.087 (down from UK0.12 in FY 2022). All figures shown in the chart above are for the trailing 12 month (TTM) period PZ Cussons EPS Misses Expectations Revenue was in line with analyst estimates. Earnings per share (EPS) missed analyst estimates by 11%. The primary driver behind last 12 months revenue was the Africa segment contributing a total revenue of UK256.3m (39% of total revenue). Notably, cost of sales worth UK399.0m amounted to 61% of total revenue thereby underscoring the impact on earnings. The largest operating expense was Sales & Marketing costs, amounting to UK105.3m (48% of total expenses). Explore how PZC's revenue and expenses shape its earnings. Looking ahead, revenue is expected to decline by 1.4% p.a. on average during the next 3 years, while revenues in the Personal Products industry in the United Kingdom are expected to grow by 3.2%. Performance of the British Personal Products industry. The company's shares are down 7.0% from a week ago. Risk Analysis It's still necessary to consider the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 2 warning signs with PZ Cussons, and understanding these should be part of your investment process. 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. Roblox's (RBLX) approach to China is characterized by some optimism and an abundance of caution. The US online gaming company in 2019 announced a strategic partnership with China-based tech giant Tencent (TCEHY), though Roblox paused service in China in 2022. "We're being very, very careful in China," Roblox CEO David Baszucki said in a session at the 2023 Code Conference in Dana Point, Calif. "The dynamics in China right now have gotten to the point where, rather than envisioning a fully connected-type network, you have to imagine an autonomous network. In a sense, we're modernizing our infrastructure to the point where we can literally print a copy of Roblox in China and bring it to market there." Roblox CEO David Baszucki speaks onstage during Vox Media's 2023 Code Conference at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel on Sept. 26, 2023, in Dana Point, Calif. (Jerod Harris/Getty Images for Vox Media) Baszucki's comments track with what survey results suggest is a widespread sentiment that US companies are less optimistic about their prospects in China. A recent study by the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai found that US businesses who are optimistic about their five-year outlook in China fell to 52%, a record low, as the country faces geopolitical tensions, economic hurdles, tariffs, and issues in the real estate market. Still, Baszucki added that the company continues to be very involved in China and is working on the infrastructure to support Tencent there, which he noted "continues to be an amazing partner." Roblox is in the midst of a growth push, and the company's strategy aims to attract older users, which Baszucki touted. "We've actually stopped using the term 'aging up' right now," he said. "We have a very substantial over-17 user base. ... It's surprising, the amount of older people that play [Roblox]." China, as one of the largest markets in the world, is undoubtedly part of that growth strategy. But Baszucki didn't discount that the geopolitical relationship between China and the US could get more complicated. "As you look at any other platform or any other social media company, you could look back at the last three to four years and you'd see ... less and less information going back and forth between the US and China," he said. Story continues If things were to deteriorate further, he added, it could potentially get to a point where "the future will be very hopeless." Allie Garfinkle is a Senior Tech Reporter at Yahoo Finance. Follow her on Twitter at @agarfinks and on LinkedIn. 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 By Conor Humphries and Sergio Goncalves DUBLIN (Reuters) -Ryanair announced cuts to its winter schedule on Thursday due to delays in the delivery of Boeing aircraft, but Europe's largest airline by passenger numbers said its full-year traffic forecast was unaffected "as yet". Ryanair, which is one of Boeing's largest customers, said in a statement that it had expected to receive delivery of 27 aircraft bewteen September and December. However, production delays at the Spirit Fuselage facility in Wichita, Kansas, combined with Boeing repair and delivery delays in Seattle, meant the budget airline now expects to receive only 14 aircraft between October and December. It did not say how many planes were delivered in September The Irish airline said it was working to try to accelerate deliveries from January to May 2024 but that if the delays worsen or extend into early next year, it may have to revise down its traffic forecast. A senior Ryanair executive later told Reuters the delays may last into next summer and that it was "too early to say" if it would receive the full order of 57 jets by May 2024. "We think there may be some delays into next summer, but on a small number of aircraft," Eddie Wilson, the head of Ryanair DAC, the largest airline in the group, said in an interview in Lisbon. Ryanair shares, which are up 28% this year, were 0.4% higher at 1530 GMT, reversing earlier session losses. Asked if it could confirm the delays and when deliveries would be up to date, a spokesperson for Boeing said that the planemaker valued its partnership with Ryanair and was committed to supporting the airline. Ryanair already trimmed its full-year passenger forecast to 183.5 million from 185 million in July, citing potential Boeing delays, as well as the impact of air traffic control strikes. Group Chief Executive Michael O'Leary consistently blasted Boeing throughout last year for delays that impacted deliveries up to its key 2023 summer season, but buried the hatchet in May with a multibillion-dollar deal for as many as 300 Boeing jets. Story continues Ryanair executives had said deliveries had "significantly improved" before Boeing discovered a production flaw last month that has slowed deliveries of its best-selling 737 MAX aircraft. Flight cancellations will take effect from the end of October, and will be communicated to all affected passengers by email over the coming days, Ryanair said. It will cut three aircraft from those based at Charleroi airport in Belgium, two from Dublin and five from Italian airports, including Bergamo, Naples and Pisa. There will also be aircraft reductions at East Midlands airport in the UK, Porto in Portugal and Cologne, Germany, it said. (Reporting by Conor Humphries, additional reporting by Yadarisa Shabong in Bengaluru and Padraic Halpin in Dublin; Editing by Susan Fenton, KIrsten Donovan) Europes largest airline has a fleet of more than 550 aircraft - ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP Ryanair has thrown holiday plans into disarray for up to 1.4m passengers as it cancelled flights across its winter schedule. Europes largest airline blamed delays in new aircraft deliveries from Boeing for the cancellations, which will take effect from the end of October. It is not yet known how many flights will be hit. But Peel Hunt analyst Alex Paterson estimated that it would affect at least 1.4m passengers. The Irish carrier did not comment on the figure but confirmed that a minimum of 10 airliners from its fleet of 550 across Europe will be unavailable for its winter 2023 schedule. The airline said reductions in its flight schedule were unavoidable because it has no spare aircraft due to scheduled maintenance. Mr Paterson said: Ryanair operates a very low-cost carrier model where high utilisation is critical. Michael OLeary, the chief executive, said: At this early date, we do not expect these delivery delays will materially affect our full-year traffic target of 183.5m. But if the delays worsen or extend further into the January to March 2024 period, we may have to revisit this figure and possibly adjust it slightly downward. Jets based at eight airports around Europe including Dublin, Naples, East Midlands and Cologne will be removed from service for vital maintenance work. Extra maintenance groundings are set to be confirmed at another three Ryanair bases. Mr OLeary said at a press conference on Wednesday: As long as Boeing dont delay any more deliveries, we will get to 183.5m passengers. Pre-Covid we did 149m passengers so were operating nearly 30pc more than we did three years ago. The airline said affected passengers who had booked cancelled flights will be notified in the coming weeks and offered alternative flights or refunds. Ryanair had expected to receive 27 aircraft from Boeing over the next three months but production delays mean it only expects to take delivery of 14 new airliners between September and December. Story continues The airline apologised for the cancelled flights, highlighting delays at Boeing subcontractor Spirit Aerosystems fuselage factory in Wichita, Kansas. In summer Spirit acknowledged a quality issue at the factory, saying in mid-August we believe there will not be a material impact to our delivery range for the year related to this issue. Boeing said: We value our partnership with Ryanair and are committed to supporting them. The airliner-maker said issues had also been caused by repair and delivery setbacks at its own plant in Seattle. 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. At least WeWork had flashy buildings to flaunt for the billions of dollars ex-CEO Adam Neumann raised. But what did Sam Bankman-Fried have to show? SBF, as he was often called, is a pathological liar, an alleged fraud and market manipulator and also a really horrible ex-boyfriend whos pinning his entire downfall on his on-and-off girlfriend Caroline Ellison, who headed Alameda Research. But the biggest lie that Bankman-Fried ever told likely has nothing to do with being a supposedly spendthrift billionaire who flew private or the backdoor code said to have been used to raid billions in customer funds from FTX. It was probably the FTX exchange itself. The very product Bankman-Fried paraded around the world to raise his billions and build political connections was error-prone, slow and often lagged during times of market volatility. Customer service was said to be non-existent. An online complaint form was linked to a general email address that seldom replied. There comes a point where this isnt personal, its just the truth For anyone actively trading, ftx is currently the worst of all the big exchanges No other exchange will I have an order sit at the top of the book for minutes without getting even a fraction of the order filled Degen (@kerneltrader) April 26, 2021 FTX positioned itself as built by traders, for traders given SBFs and Ellisons past work experience with Wall Street quant firm Jane Street and quickly found a following in the depths of the previous bear market. It went from processing a few thousand dollars in trading volumes after its 2019 launch to billions of dollars at its 2022 peak. These surging volumes and his companys soaring valuation boosted Bankman-Frieds ego, as he envisioned creating a one-stop exchange to trade anything from bitcoin to orange juice. Story continues An army of venture capitalists, such as Sino Global Capital and Sequoia Capital, hyped the founder and exchange up. Crypto influencers on X (nee Twitter) flashed affiliate links that gave discounts on fees. The unsuspecting retail audience bought into the dreams. When the exchange was new, its technical flaws were more forgivable, especially because Binance's early financial backing and Bankman-Fried's reputation as a skilled arbitrageur gave the startup a sheen of respectability (even if it routinely listed garbage like the Shitcoin Futures Index). Another facet that boosted growth was Bankman-Frieds whole Effective Altruism shenanigans. Loved by mainstream media and investors alike, the young "boy genius" wanted to eventually donate everything he made to charity. FTX would, in its later years, even flaunt a foundation page on its site that claimed to give 1% of revenue to various causes. This made the ultimate casino for users: A gambling addiction probably didnt matter as long as it was helping fuel charitable goods. Except, the product didnt work as well as advertised. Complaints ranged from poor order matching to delayed market orders. FTXs slow execution soon became a popular joke. You are the industry leader with the biggest exchange, how is it even possible to have this bad of UI and have the website crash as soon as volatility shows up? Jesus You are just mocking us at this point 2laxar (@2laxar) September 13, 2022 Popular trader @HsakaTrades once complained about orders taking a long time to fill. Bankman-Fried, in his deflective way, blamed the web browser the trader was using. @HsakaTrades had none of that pointing to the scores of similar issues among FTX users. Such issues were echoed on other social media sites and forums. Yeah, as an exchange FTX was pretty terrible, dcolkitt, a user from the popular technology forum Hacker News, claimed. The matching engine was notorious for being high latency, unreliable, and having all sorts of undocumented issues. See also: Sam Bankman-Fried Blames Everyone but Himself for FTX's Collapse | Opinion Every algo trader there will tell you horror stories about trying to cancel an open order, getting a cancel confirmation, and then getting notified that the order was executed. Sometimes seconds later, dcolkitt added. Occasionally sending out zero balances was another FTX special, said another user, Vgatherps. In hindsight, we now know SBFs hedge fund Alameda was often the entity on the opposite side of every FTX trade, which goes far in explaining the poor fills, the lag experienced by traders, and just about everything that was going wrong at the exchange. The firm, after all, had a front-seat view to all trades on FTX which contributed to the $1 billion in claimed revenues it made in 2020. Today, it's unclear if supposedly sophisticated investors like Singapore's wealth fund Temasek and storied venture financier Tiger Global were sold more on Bankman-Fried's vision or lured in by the speculative frenzy in 2021. All this raises the question: Did anyone even use FTX before investing? MONTREAL, Sept. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - Today, SCALE AI took the stage at Canada's ALL IN event to announce investments of $21 million for nine artificial intelligence (AI) projects selected by SCALE AI as part of its AI for Healthcare Initiative to support hospital projects pioneering the deployment of AI solutions. This latest SCALE AI initiative promotes collaboration between hospitals and AI product and solutions providers across the country to innovate further and accelerate the deployment of AI in the Canadian healthcare network to improve operations, logistics and resource allocation. From left to right : Antoine Cosse (Moov AI), Marc Plamondon (Airudi), Marc Vaucher (Scale AI), Anne Nguyen (CHUM), Julien Billot (Scale AI), Helene Desmarais (IVADO Labs), Aaron Fattori (Deloitte), MaryEve Racine (Airudi), Arslan Idrees (Deloitte Digital), Lisa Bitonti-Bengert (Humber River Health), Peter Bak (Humber River Health) (CNW Group/Scale AI) With this announcement, SCALE AI underlines the critical role of AI in transforming our Canadian healthcare network to offer better care for all Canadians. These projects are supported by funding provided to SCALE AI as part of the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy, through which the Government of Canada is investing in efforts to drive the adoption of artificial intelligence across Canada's economy and society. Led by and deployed into Canadian hospitals, the projects announced today including optimizing and forecasting for resource and workflow operations, patient care management and virtual triaging and queue management will help resolve complex challenges in Canadian healthcare. These technological advances will have tangible, measurable effects on hospital activities, notably by helping to improve the patient's journey and experience by streamlining the logistics, determining daily resource management, or reducing waiting times. The Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, Canada's Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, says: "AI for healthcare offers powerful new solutions to improve the daily lives of Canadian patients. Through the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy, SCALE AI is working with local AI experts to develop these solutions in partnership with local healthcare institutions and hospitals to ensure better data protection and a solid ethical framework for analyzing and processing information about patients and our healthcare system." Story continues Julien Billot, CEO, SCALE AI, explains: "SCALE AI is working with many partners to accelerate the rapid adoption and integration of AI in key sectors like healthcare. Through this initiative, AI ecosystem players and hospitals are mobilizing to meet today's public health challenges and to have a profound effect on healthcare in Canada." Helene Desmarais, Co-Chair of the Board of Directors, SCALE AI, adds: "In partnership with the entire ecosystem, SCALE AI continues to help develop AI in Canada, accelerate its integration into Canadian businesses and support the management and delivery of healthcare through AI. These projects are helping to find efficiencies and optimize limited resources to improve patient well-being." AI for Healthcare: 9 projects representing investments of $20.9 million To learn more about the projects, click here. AI-Driven Demand Forecasting for CIUSSS West-Central Logistics Optimization Partners: CIUSSS West-Central Montreal (CIUSSS-CCOMTL), IVADO Labs SCALE AI investment: $1.5 million Total investment: $2.3 million Developing the First Patient-Centric Care Management System for Oncology Partners: The Ottawa Hospital, The Princess Margaret Cancer Center, The Centre Hospitalier de l'Universite de Montreal, Gray Oncology Solutions, The Jewish General Hospital, The Programme Quebecois de Cancerologie, The Centre Integre de Sante et de Services Sociaux de Laval, The McGill University Health Centre (MUHC), The CIUSSS de l'Estrie - Sherbrooke, The Southlake Regional Health Centre, The Canadian Cancer Society SCALE AI investment: $1.9 million Total investment: $2.9 million Optimizing Emergency Department Resources with AI Decision Support Tool Partners: Unity Health Toronto (St. Joseph's Health Center, St. Michael's Hospital), Signal 1, Trillium Healthcare Partners, Grand River Hospital SCALE AI investment: $1.5 million Total investment: $3 million Emergency Dept AI-Enabled Virtual Triaging and Queue Management Application Partners: Humber River Health, Deloitte, MEDITECH Collaborative, Mackenzie Health SCALE AI investment: $1.5 million Total investment: $2.4 million AInceptionOptimizing Emergency Planning Partners: Centre hospitalier de l'Universite de Montreal (CHUM), Moov AI, CIUSSS Estrie - CHU Sherbrooke Scale AI investment: $1.5 million Total investment: $2.3 million AI-Based Decision Tool to Forecast, Optimize and Allocate Paramedic Resources Partners: Urgences-sante, Alberta Health Services Emergency Medical Services, Emergency Medical Care Incorporated, Airudi, McGill Clinical and Health Informatics SCALE AI investment: $1.5 million Total investment: $2.3 million AI-Driven Physician Scheduling Solution and Workflow Optimization Partners: Fraser Health Authority, Deloitte SCALE AI investment: $1.5 million Total investment: $2.2 million Resource Optimization Chart for Pediatric Intensive Care Partners: Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal Children's Hospital, IVADO Labs SCALE AI investment: $1.5 million Total investment: $1.8 million Improvement of Radiation Therapy Through Staff Scheduling Optimization Partners: UHN Princess Margaret Cancer Center, IVADO Labs, Southlake Regional Health Center, eSummit SCALE AI investment: $1.5 million Total investment: $1.7 million About Scale AI ( scaleai.ca ) As Canada's AI Global Innovation Cluster, Scale AI acts as an investment and innovation hub that accelerates the rapid adoption and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and contributes to developing a world-class Canadian AI ecosystem. Based in Montreal and funded by the federal government and the Quebec government, Scale AI works with more than 500 industry partners, research institutes, and other players in the field of AI. The organization develops programs to support investments in companies that implement real-world applications of AI and encourage the emergence of future Canadian flagships in the sector, all while facilitating the development of a highly skilled workforce. SOURCE Scale AI Cision View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/September2023/27/c6384.html Seacor Holdings subsidiary Seabulk Towings operations in the Gulf of Mexico have been acquired by E.N. Bisso & Son Inc. and Bay-Houston Towing Co. (Photo: Seabulk Towing Holdings Inc.) Marine services provider Seacor Holdings Inc. announced it has sold its U.S. harbor towing operations and assets to E.N. Bisso & Son Inc. and Bay-Houston Towing Co. The E.N. Bisso transaction includes 12 vessels across ports in Florida and Alabama. Bay-Houston is acquiring eight vessels operating in East Texas along the Sabine Neches Navigation District and in the Port of Lake Charles, Louisiana. Seacor Holdings conducted its U.S. towing operations through its subsidiary Seabulk Towing. Seabulk will continue to own and operate a fleet of tugs and barges in support of its Caribbean terminal and bunkering operations. Terms of the sale to E.N. Bisso and Bay-Houston were not disclosed. The transaction also includes an unspecified number of employees working for Seabulks operations in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana and Texas. Officials for Bay-Houston said the acquisition of the eight Seabulk tug vessels allows them to enhance services in Louisiana and Texas. We have admired Seabulk for many years, and Bay-Houston is delighted to expand its operations to two important, high-growth ports, Philip Kuebler, Bay-Houston president and CEO, said in a news release. We look forward to providing our customers with a smooth transition and long-term investment to support their growth in these ports. The acquisition increases Bay-Houstons fleet to 34 tugboats. The Houston-based company was founded in the 1890s and assists ships calling the ports of Houston, Galveston, Texas City, Freeport and Corpus Christi in Texas, as well as Lake Charles. Officials for New Orleans-based E.N. Bisso said the acquisition allows them to develop the companys brand into new markets. The transaction increases E.N. Bissos fleet to 34 vessels. Five of the vessels acquired from Seabulk are advanced rotortugs, according to a news release. We are excited to expand our brand into four new ports, Matt Holzhalb, E.N. Bissos president and CEO, said in a statement. We look forward to growing with the business of these ports and welcome Seabulk Towings highly-skilled professionals to the E.N. Bisso family. Story continues E.N. Bisso, founded in the 1880s, is a provider of harbor tug services for the ports of New Orleans; Gulfport, Mississippi; Port Canaveral, Florida and Palm Beach, Florida. Click for more FreightWaves articles by Noi Mahoney. More articles by Noi Mahoney Port Houston sees falling container traffic in August Flexe conducts 2nd round of layoffs in 14 months Former Texas border agent pleads guilty to hiring undocumented truck drivers The post Seacor Holdings sells harbor towing assets operating in Gulf of Mexico appeared first on FreightWaves. In this issue SEC vs. Bitcoin ETFs: Lawmakers call NFTs: Down but not dead Mixin: US$200 million lost in crypto hack From the Editors Desk Dear Reader, It takes a lot for U.S. Democrats and Republicans to come together these days particularly given the Trump-trance into which the latter have fallen in recent years but congratulations are in order for Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Gary Gensler for having united lawmakers from the two sides. Having distinguished himself for leading a crusade against crypto companies of all shapes and sizes, Mr. Gensler can now add the epithet peace broker to his resume. Unfortunately for him, however, peace is the last thing with which he was rewarded at the House Financial Services Committee hearing on SEC oversight this week. His roasting before the committee came hot on the heels of a strongly worded letter from four of its members two Democrat and two Republican that described the SECs stance on spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds as untenable and accused the regulator of applying inconsistent and discriminatory standards to applications to set up those ETFs. The barbequing the SEC boss received on Wednesday wasnt his first brush with legislators hostility. Just last month, he was the target of a tirade by lawmakers following the SECs court defeat in its case against Grayscales Bitcoin ETF application. Two months before that, one of the signatories of this weeks letter, committee member Tom Emmer, co-sponsored the SEC Stabilization Act, a bill expressly aimed at removing the regulator from his post following what Emmer said were his long series of abuses in the role. So, a rough few months for the SEC chief, then. And a probable win for the crypto industry as the pressure to accommodate the inevitable in this instance a Bitcoin ETF becomes impossible to resist. Mr. Gensler and his colleagues may dig their heels in, but the SEC is ultimately accountable to Congress, whose crypto caucus looks likely to become one of the most powerful blocs in the legislature in the years ahead. Story continues Ranged against such remarkable and staunch bipartisanship, the SECs Canute syndrome just wont cut it. Bring on the tide. Until the next time, Angie Lau, Founder and Editor-in-Chief Forkast.News 1. Lawmakers enter the fray In a potent show of bipartisan unity, four members of the House Financial Services Committee penned a stern letter to SEC Chair Gary Gensler, condemning the regulators ongoing rejection of spot Bitcoin ETF applications, citing inconsistent and discriminatory standards. Image: Canva The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) should stop rejecting Bitcoin exchange-traded fund applications under inconsistent and discriminatory standards, four members of the House Financial Services Committee wrote in a Tuesday letter to SEC Chair Gary Gensler, after the U.S. financial regulator was ordered by a court last month to review Grayscales spot Bitcoin application. The letter was meant to ensure the SEC does not continue to discriminate against spot Bitcoin ETFs, the Tuesday letter said, urging the SEC to approve the multiple pending spot Bitcoin ETF applications immediately. The letter was written by Congress members Tom Emmer, who is the majority whip of the House of Representatives, Mike Flood, Ritchie Torres and Wiley Nickel. The letter cited a court decision on Aug. 29 that required the SEC to review Grayscales spot Bitcoin application it rejected earlier. The courts finding underscores a fundamental point that a spot Bitcoin ETF is indistinguishable from a Bitcoin futures ETF that has already been approved by the SEC, thus the agencys current stance against spot Bitcoin ETFs is untenable moving forward, said the letter. After the letter was sent on Tuesday, SEC delayed its decision on the Ark Investment Management and 21Shares spot Bitcoin ETF application from Nov. 11 to Jan. 10, 2024. The agency had earlier delayed multiple similar applications, including those from BlackRock, WisdomTree and Invesco Galaxy. BlackRock, the worlds largest asset management company, has its next Bitcoin ETF decision deadline on Oct. 17, which could be postponed again by the SEC. At a Wednesday hearing before the House Financial Services Committee, Gensler was questioned about his crusade against the digital asset ecosystem, given the agencys enforcement actions against crypto firms for alleged securities law violations in the past few months. Despite the Congress pressure, Gensler held to his point that most crypto tokens are subject to the securities laws, which makes most crypto intermediaries obliged to comply with securities laws as well. He also added that SEC was still considering what to do with the pending spot Bitcoin ETF applications, which could be further delayed due to a potential U.S. government shutdown in October. Forkast.Insights | What does it mean? The cryptocurrency market, including Bitcoin, has been relatively quiet lately. Prices have been stable, with the worlds largest cryptocurrency maintaining a value between US$25,000 and US$30,000 since early August, creating a somewhat unexciting period for investors used to the assets usually turbulent nature. However, there are significant events on the horizon that have the potential to shake things up. One such event is the anticipated Bitcoin halving in April 2024, which is expected to reduce the number of new Bitcoins entering the market and could affect the price. Another potential game-changer is the possibility of the approval of the first U.S. spot Bitcoin ETF. The exact timing is still unknown, but recent legal developments, like the SEC losing a case against Grayscale, are making people think its more likely to happen than not. While the market seems to be in a holding pattern, some, like software company MicroStrategy, are using this time to increase their holdings, seeing it as a chance to buy before potential increases in value. MicroStrategy, recognized as the largest corporate holder of Bitcoin, purchased around US$150 million more of it between August and September, showcasing its unwavering confidence in the long-term value of Bitcoin. For investors, the current market situation, combined with the potential upcoming events, makes for an interesting landscape. Although things seem calm on the surface, there could be significant opportunities for those willing to look for them. The strategic moves by companies like MicroStrategy to accumulate more assets suggest that there are underlying opportunities in the current market environment. 2. Down but not out The tumultuous NFT market is experiencing a significant downturn, contradicting earlier media narratives heralding the limitless potential of non-fungible tokens. A report came out last week stating that 95% of NFTs are now worthless. While true, the story has been spun into a narrative that NFTs are dead. This couldnt be further from the truth. However, NFTs value is down tremendously. The Forkast 500 NFT Index fell below 2,000 for the first time in the indexs history. The value of the NFT market is down 93.99% since the peak of the market in January 2022. The individual blockchain NFT Composites reflect similar all-time declines in NFT value with Solana NFTs down 94.34%, Polygon 93.53%, Ethereum 93.42% and Cardano NFTs performing the best, down just 74.49%. In the past seven days, the index has lost 5.68%, indicating an increasing decline in value of NFTs across blockchains. Global NFT sales on CryptoSlam declined for the fifth week in a row, with just over US$69 million in total NFT sales in the week ended Sept. 24. Forkast.Insights | What does it mean? There is no disputing that the value of NFTs has declined, but theres a difference between value declining, NFTs being largely worthless, and the adoption of NFTs. Last weeks 95% worthless report claimed that NFTs were just a fad that has finally passed. While data supports that 95% of NFT collections are indeed worthless, this phenomenon has been the case on multiple occasions during the many slow periods in the NFT market. Simply put, NFTs quickly become illiquid and are effectively worthless. There is significance in still-liquid projects like Bored Apes Yacht Club, CryptoPunks, World of Women, and Pudgy Penguins losing roughly 94% of their value. This is the story that the Forkast 500 NFT Index tells, as it reflects the value of the top 500 NFT collections across blockchains, and acts as a proxy for the rest of the NFT market. Whether the plot has been lost or never understood, there is a picture telling the story of what has happened over the past few years in NFTs. In fact, the growth of the industry has been more significant than most realize and if were the only outlet to report the real facts, were proud to do just that. Since 2020, the NFT market has grown exponentially in almost all metrics beyond value. Unique buyers are up 10,100% in 2023 compared to 2020, while global sales are up 31,872%, and transactions are up 52,415% over this time. The picture is now clear, NFTs have become baked into internet culture. With brands continuing to pour into Web3, the technology around NFTs maturing, and a base of collectors that are convinced that the digital economy is the future, were convinced that the value many want so desperately is just a cycle away. 3. Yet another heist The Mixin heist is the biggest crypto heist this year. Image: Canva Hong Kongs crypto sector saw its second major blow in a month with Mixin Network, a cross-chain transaction network for digital assets, suffering a US$200 million exploit on Saturday. The database of Mixin Networks cloud service provider was hacked last Saturday and caused the loss of around US$200 million worth of assets, Mixin announced on X (formerly known as Twitter) on Monday. Mixin said it has temporarily suspended its deposits and withdrawal services until the platforms vulnerabilities are addressed, and has contacted Google and blockchain security firm SlowMist to assist with the investigation, according to the announcement. On Monday, Mixin Founder Feng Xiao-dong said Bitcoin was the main asset lost in the hack, and the platform will pay up to 50% of the customers losses for now. The rest of the losses will be compensated in the form of bonds and tokens, which the company will repurchase in the future, according to Chinese online news media BlockBeats. The hack added to negative sentiment in Hong Kongs crypto industry. On Sept. 12, Hong Kong-headquartered global crypto exchange CoinEx lost approximately US$70 million from a cyberattack. Last week, Hong Kong police arrested multiple persons related to crypto exchange JPEX, which allegedly misled investors through social media promotions and suspended trading last Monday, charging high withdrawal fees. As of Monday, JPEXs case has involved 11 arrests, at least 2,305 victims, and over US$180 million of investments, according to the South China Morning Post. Hong Kong has been implementing a slew of regulatory measures this year amid efforts to be a global hub of crypto trading while preparing guardrails for investors against bad actors. Its new rules, which went into effect on June 1, allowed licensed crypto trading platforms to offer services to retail investors. Forkast.Insights | What does it mean? Hong Kong has garnered much attention in crypto circles since its rollout of rules for crypto trading several months ago. That attention has come largely for the right reasons, but this month its come for all the wrong ones. The Mixin Network heist the biggest crypto hack so far this year shows that, rules or no rules, basic security remains a challenge in the crypto space. The cyberattack on CoinEx, less than a fortnight earlier, serves only to underline the point. Mixin bills itself as an open and transparent decentralized ledger, which is collectively booked and maintained by 35 mainnet nodes. But Mixin says the vulnerability lay in its cloud service, whose database was hacked. That begs the question of just how decentralized Mixin really is when it comes to security; accessing a database isnt the same thing as accessing a supposedly decentralized network. As for CoinEx, the problem was compromised private keys to hot wallets. CoinExs hack may have been smaller and its impact relatively quickly addressed, but theres a whiff of menace around talk that North Korean hackers may have been responsible for it. Indeed, the name of notorious North Korean hacker group Lazarus surfaced with little delay. It shouldnt be lost on anyone that hackers linked to Pyongyang were responsible for half of the crypto stolen in attacks last year. None of this is the fault of Hong Kongs Securities and Futures Commission, whose rules are well-intentioned and a step in the right direction for the citys aim of realizing its crypto ambitions. The SFC is, after all, a finance regulator, not a cybersecurity enforcer. Neither can the JPEX debacle be laid at the SFCs doorstep. Pending proper legal due process, the conduct of the rogue exchange appears to be a textbook case of flouting the rules. The JPEX case appears already to have shaken local investors confidence in crypto, and the two hacks will likewise have done little to foster increased trust. Mores the pity, as Hong Kongs internationally respected finance regulator has taken an encouraging if somewhat cautious step toward bringing crypto back in from the cold following what was arguably its lowest point just 10 months ago. DUBLIN, Sept. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Server Virtualization Software - Global Strategic Business Report" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Research and Markets Logo The global Server Virtualization Software market is experiencing significant growth, with an estimated value of US$8.3 billion in 2022, projected to reach approximately US$13.8 billion by 2030. This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.6% during the forecast period from 2022 to 2030. Server virtualization software is a technology that allows multiple virtual servers to run on a single physical server, optimizing server utilization, reducing hardware costs, and enhancing overall IT efficiency. Segmentation by Virtualization Type Para Virtualization : This segment is expected to record a CAGR of 6.7%, reaching a market size of US$4.4 billion by 2030. Para virtualization offers efficient resource utilization and is particularly useful in environments where full virtualization is not possible. Full Virtualization: The full virtualization segment is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% for the next eight years. Full virtualization provides complete isolation between virtual machines, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Regional Market Insights United States : The U.S. Server Virtualization Software market was estimated at US$2.8 billion in 2022, reflecting the country's advanced IT infrastructure and the adoption of virtualization technologies in various industries. China : China is forecasted to experience robust growth in the Server Virtualization Software market, with a projected market size of US$1.4 billion by 2030. The country's expanding IT sector and digital transformation initiatives contribute to this growth. Japan : Japan is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% during the forecast period, driven by the need for efficient data center management and server consolidation. Canada : Canada's market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.4%, benefiting from the adoption of virtualization solutions in both public and private sectors. Germany: In Europe, Germany is anticipated to grow at approximately 6.3% CAGR, reflecting the country's focus on IT modernization and cloud computing. Story continues Key Market Players Some of the key players in the global Server Virtualization Software market include: Cisco Systems, Inc. Fujitsu Ltd. Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. Google LLC Broadcom Inc. Accenture PLC Citrix Systems, Inc. Capgemini SE Egenera, Inc. Dell Technologies, Inc. Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP (HPE) ConnectIT Networks HVE ConneXions DXC Technology Company Conclusion The global Server Virtualization Software market is witnessing substantial growth as organizations across industries seek to optimize their IT infrastructure and reduce operational costs. Para virtualization and full virtualization technologies offer flexibility and efficiency, driving adoption worldwide. The United States, China, Japan, Canada, and Germany are key markets contributing to this growth. Additionally, the increasing emphasis on cloud computing, data center consolidation, and digital transformation initiatives further accelerates the demand for server virtualization software. Key players in the industry are continuously innovating to meet the evolving needs of businesses, ensuring that they can harness the benefits of virtualization for improved resource utilization and scalability. This dynamic market presents opportunities for both established and emerging players to provide innovative solutions and gain a competitive edge. What`s New? Special discussions on the global economic climate and market sentiment Coverage on global competitiveness and key competitor percentage market shares Market presence analysis across multiple geographies - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial Online interactive peer-to-peer collaborative bespoke updates Access to digital archives and trademarked research platform Complimentary updates for one year Access to curated YouTube video transcripts of market sentiments shared by CEOs, domain experts and market influencers via interviews, podcasts, press statements and event keynotes Key Topics Covered: I. METHODOLOGY II. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1. MARKET OVERVIEW Influencer Market Insights World Market Trajectories Impact of Covid-19 and a Looming Global Recession Virtualization and Virtualization Software: A Review World Virtualization Software Market by Technology (2020 & 2027): Percentage Breakdown of Revenues for Network Function Virtualization, Desktop Virtualization, Software-defined Storage and Server Virtualization Server Virtualization Development of the Server Virtualization Market Rising Uptake and Software Maintenance Revenues Help Server Virtualization Software Market Post Decent Growth Market Drivers & Restraints North America to Retain Commanding Position in Server Virtualization Software Market World Server Virtualization Software Market by Region (2020 & 2027): Percentage Breakdown of Revenues for Developed and Developing Regions World Server Virtualization Software Market - Geographic Regions Ranked by CAGR (Revenues) for 2020-2027 Competitive Scenario Vendor Focus on Sophisticated Features Catalyzes Server Virtualization Software Market Recent Market Activity Server Virtualization Software - Global Key Competitors Percentage Market Share in 2022 (E) Competitive Market Presence - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial for Players Worldwide in 2022 (E) 2. FOCUS ON SELECT PLAYERS 3. MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS Server Virtualization: An Important Cog in the IT Wheel Cost Benefits from Server Consolidation Drive the Business Case for Server Virtualization Server Virtualization: Enabling Green IT Strategy Energy Consumption in Server Rooms: Comparison of Power Consumption (in %) for IT Equipment, Air Conditioning and Distribution Losses Changing ICT Landscape to Influence Server Virtualization Software Market Global Shipments of Smartphones (in Million Units) for the Years 2011 through 2019 Proliferation of Cloud and OS Technologies Drive Server Virtualization Global Public Cloud Computing Market (in US$ Billion) by Segment for the Years 2019 and 2022 Status of Serverless Computing, Containers, and Modern Applications Data Center Virtualization Trends Select Innovations in Server Virtualization Space Challenges Facing the Server Virtualization Software Market Server Virtualization: Technology Overview Virtualization Technology: A Background Study An Introduction to Server Virtualization Software Future of Server Virtualization Software Server Virtualization Approaches Virtual Server Key Steps in Implementation of Server Virtualization Key Benefits Package Disadvantages of Virtualization Backup Issues Data Recovery 4. GLOBAL MARKET PERSPECTIVE III. MARKET ANALYSIS IV. COMPETITION For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/b2rkua About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager 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 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/server-virtualization-software-market-thrives-on-cloud-adoption-and-data-center-modernization-trends-301940771.html SOURCE Research and Markets Melbourne, Victoria --News Direct-- Sovereign Metals Ltd Sovereign Metals Ltd (ASX:SVM, AIM:SVML) MD Julian Stephens speaks with Proactive after announcing the results of a PFS for the companys flagship Kasiya Rutile-Graphite Project in Malawi. He says it is a major critical minerals project with an extremely low carbon footprint underpinned by significant economic returns. Kasiya is the largest natural rutile deposit and second-largest flake graphite deposit in the world. The PFS is modelled on a life-of-mine (LOM) of 25 years, with initial probable ore reserves of 538 million tonnes, representing a conversion of only 30% of the total mineral resource. Kasiya is forecast to become the worlds largest rutile producer at 222,000 tonnes per annum and potentially one of the worlds largest natural graphite producers outside of China at 244,000 tonnes per annum. The release of the Kasiya PFS marks another important step towards unlocking a major source of two critical minerals required to decarbonise global supply chains and to achieve net-zero, Stephens said. The project benefits from existing high-quality infrastructure and inherent ESG advantages. Natural rutile has a far lower carbon footprint compared to other titanium feedstocks used in the pigment industry, and natural graphite is a key component in lithium-ion batteries crucial to de-carbonising the global economy. Contact Details Proactive Investors Jonathan Jackson +61 413 713 744 jonathan@proactiveinvestors.com View source version on newsdirect.com: https://newsdirect.com/news/sovereign-metals-says-kasiya-has-potential-for-industry-leading-returns-546199639 The Stellantis headquarters in Auburn Hills on Wednesday, September 20, 2023. Jeep will have a new global brand leader, effective Nov. 1. Stellantis announced a couple of key leadership changes Thursday, including moving Antonio Filosa, chief operating officer for South America, to the Jeep brand CEO spot held by Christian Meunier. There was no change announced to the leadership of Jeeps important North American region led by Jim Morrison. Meunier will take a long break to focus on personal interests, according to a company news release. More: Stellantis execs sold millions in stock in recent months; automaker cites tax obligations Emanuele Cappellano will replace Filosa, the release said. Cappellano was previously South America chief financial officer for the company from 2017 to 2021, and currently serves as North America CEO and group strategy and corporate development director at Marcolin Group since October 2021. The company also announced that Ashwani Muppasani, the China National Sales Co. head since July 2022, will replace Carl Smiley as chief operating officer for Stellantis India and Asia Pacific. Smiley has decided to prioritize his personal life, the release said. Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares, in the release, notes that the circumstances of life must make us accept the personal decisions of our colleagues, as they illustrate their human qualities, beyond their business acumen. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Stellantis picks Antonio Filosa as leader for global Jeep brand Long-established in the Utilities - Regulated industry, Suburban Propane Partners LP (NYSE:SPH) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. It has recently witnessed a daily gain of 10.19%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of 10.83%. However, fresh insights from the GF Score 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 Suburban Propane Partners LP. Suburban Propane Partners LP (SPH): 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 Suburban Propane Partners LP the GF Score of 68 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential. Snapshot of Suburban Propane Partners LP's Business Suburban Propane Partners LP, with a market cap of $1.03 billion, is a key player in the Utilities - Regulated industry. The company, which generates sales of $1.44 billion, primarily distributes propane, fuel oil, and other refined fuels to customers in the East Coast and West Coast regions of the United States. It also engages in natural gas and electricity marketing in the deregulated New York and Pennsylvania markets. The company's operating margin stands at 11.47%. Story continues Suburban Propane Partners LP (SPH): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential Financial Strength Analysis Suburban Propane Partners LP's financial strength indicators present some concerning insights about the company's balance sheet health. The company's interest coverage ratio of 2.37 positions it worse than 73.61% of 432 companies in the Utilities - Regulated 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 1.15, 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 0.01 indicates a struggle in handling existing debt levels. The company's debt-to-equity ratio is 2.31, which is worse than 89.47% of 456 companies in the Utilities - Regulated industry. A high debt-to-equity ratio suggests over-reliance on borrowing and vulnerability to market fluctuations. Additionally, the company's debt-to-Ebitda ratio is 6.11, which is above Joel Tillinghast's warning level of 4 and is worse than 73.36% of 443 companies in the Utilities - Regulated 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 Suburban Propane Partners LP seems to falter, as evidenced by the company's low Growth rank. Lastly, Suburban Propane Partners LP predictability rank is just one star out of five, adding to investor uncertainty regarding revenue and earnings consistency. Suburban Propane Partners LP (SPH): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential Conclusion Given the company's financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GF Score highlights Suburban Propane Partners LP's unparalleled position for potential underperformance. While the company has a commendable history, its current financial health and growth prospects raise concerns about its ability to outperform in the future. Investors should exercise caution and conduct further research before making investment decisions. GuruFocus Premium members can find more companies with strong GF Scores using the following screener link: GF Score Screen This article first appeared on GuruFocus. In the world of finance and taxation, a narrative has emerged that's caught the attention of many: the story of how some of the richest people, including Amazon.com Inc. Founder Jeff Bezos, Tesla Inc. CEO Elon Musk and Berkshire Hathaway Inc. CEO Warren Buffett, managed to significantly reduce their tax liabilities through the use of loopholes. These titans of industry have amassed immense wealth, and the question of how they navigate the complex tax landscape has become a subject of scrutiny and debate. The ProPublica Revelation The revelations about these billionaires' tax practices came to light through a groundbreaking investigation by ProPublica Inc. in June 2021. Their "Secret IRS Files" exposed a trove of never-before-seen records, shedding light on how the wealthiest Americans, including Bezos, Musk and Buffett, managed to avoid paying substantial income taxes. Trending: The Global Oncology Drugs Market is projected to reach $484.32 billion by 2030. Invest in Starpax Biopharmas revolutionary approach to solid tumor treatment. The Strategy Of Minimizing Taxable Income One of the key tactics employed by these billionaires is to focus on taxing income rather than wealth. Income tax, as a concept, often fails to account for the wealth accumulation of the super rich, who derive much of their value from assets like stocks, real estate and investments. By primarily relying on taxing income, they exploit a system that often allows them to pay significantly lower tax rates than the average American. Bezos: The Child Tax Credit Claim One example highlighted by ProPublica is Bezos, one of the world's wealthiest people. In 2011, Bezos claimed a $4,000 tax credit for his children, which is a benefit available to middle-class families. While this is legal, it raises questions about fairness in the tax system when someone as wealthy as Bezos can use such credits. Dont Miss: For decades, Wall Street has been synonymous with the financial world. This startup is is a disruptive force. Learn how you can take advantage of a new investment opportunity. Musk: Benefiting From Stock Options Musk is another prominent figure who has been scrutinized for his tax practices. Musk's wealth largely stems from the appreciation of his stock holdings in Tesla. By holding on to his stock options, he can defer capital gains taxes indefinitely, allowing his wealth to grow without paying substantial taxes. Story continues Buffett: The Call For Tax Reform Buffett, often hailed as the Oracle of Omaha, has been an advocate for tax reform. Despite his immense wealth, Buffett paid under $24 million in taxes between 2014 and 2018. He has said that his secretary pays a higher tax rate than he does, highlighting the inequities in the tax system. The Need For Tax Reform The revelations about these billionaires' tax practices have sparked a broader conversation about the need for tax reform in the United States. Advocates argue that the tax system should be more equitable, with the wealthiest people paying their fair share. The issue of how billionaires like Bezos, Musk and Buffett exploit tax loopholes is a complex and contentious one. While their actions may be legal under the tax code, the public's reaction suggests a growing demand for changes in tax policy to address income and wealth inequality. In the end, the debate over taxing the titans raises questions about the fairness of the tax system and the responsibilities of the super-rich in contributing to the societal infrastructure from which they have benefitted so greatly. Read Next: The biggest disruption to smartphones in 15 years is here. See how this company is giving users an opportunity to make up to $1,200 per year. Earn 10x more than your average savings account while saving the planet this company is revolutionizing investments. 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 Taxing The Titans: How Bezos, Musk And Buffett Exploited Tax Loopholes originally appeared on Benzinga.com . 2023 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. Tesla's factory in Fremont, Calif. The automaker faces several racial discrimination lawsuits. (Noah Berger / Associated Press) For the record: 10:31 p.m. Sept. 29, 2023: A previous version of this article said the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing filed its racial discrimination lawsuit against Tesla in February. It was filed in February of 2022. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is suing Tesla Inc. for "widespread and ongoing" racial harassment of its Black employees and for retaliating against workers who spoke out about the problem, the federal agency announced Thursday. Since at least 2015, "Black employees at Teslas Fremont, California, manufacturing facilities have routinely endured racial abuse, pervasive stereotyping, and hostility as well as epithets," the commission said in a statement. The EEOC added: "Black employees regularly encountered graffiti, including variations of the N-word, swastikas, threats, and nooses, on desks and other equipment, in bathroom stalls, within elevators, and even on new vehicles rolling off the production line." The lawsuit was brought by the EEOCs San Francisco District Office, which has jurisdiction over Northern California, northern Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Alaska, Idaho and Montana. EEOC officials said the lawsuit is seeking compensatory and punitive damages "and back pay for the affected workers, as well as injunctive relief designed to reform Teslas employment practices to prevent such discrimination in the future." EEOC Chairperson Charlotte A. Burrows said the lawsuit "makes clear that no company is above the law." "The EEOC will vigorously enforce federal civil rights protections to help ensure American workplaces are free from unlawful harassment and retaliation," she said. Attempts to reach officials at Tesla for comment were unsuccessful. Read more: Black Tesla employees describe a culture of racism: 'I was at my breaking point' Tesla, the world's most valuable car company, faces similar action on several other fronts. In February 2022, the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing filed a lawsuit on behalf of more than 4,000 current and former Black Tesla workers the largest racial discrimination suit ever brought by the state based on number of workers affected. Story continues In that suit, three former employees alleged that racist slurs in English and Spanish were often aimed at Black employees by co-workers and supervisors. They said Tesla segregated Black workers into separate areas, gave them the hardest tasks and routinely denied them promotions. And they alleged that when they informed the company about racist treatment, their complaints went ignored or they were fired. Tesla disputed the former employees' accounts, stating that the three workers did not complain to the company about racism and that any discipline they received was the result of their own workplace behavior. "Race plays no role in any of Tesla's work assignments, promotions, pay or discipline," attorneys for the company said in a statement at the time. "Tesla prohibits discrimination, in any form." Thursday's lawsuit puts a different kind of pressure on Tesla, said attorney Clifton W. Albright, founding partner and president of Albright, Yee & Schmit, a labor and employment law firm in downtown Los Angeles. "The EEOC's preference is to resolve issues quietly.... They don't have a dog in this fight," he said, unlike lawsuits filed by private firms or civil rights organizations. "For the EEOC to come out so strongly, they must think there is significant evidence that the employer refuses or fails to recognize or address." This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. BI Deutsche Bank cut its 12-month Tesla's stock price target on Wednesday. The bank's analysts warned that the EV maker faces headwinds to earnings growth in 2024. The bank lowered its estimates for total vehicle deliveries this quarter by 15,000. Deutsche Bank Wednesday downgraded its price target for Tesla stock, warning that the electric vehicle maker's earnings face strong headwinds in 2024. The bank reiterated its buy rating for the stock but trimmed its price target for Tesla stock to $285 a share, representing a 5% decrease from its previous $300 target. That's largely due to the muted outlook for production over the next year. The bank predicted Tesla would report deliveries of 440,000 units in the third quarter, lower than estimates of 455,000 units. That could result in lower quarterly revenue than the bank previously estimated, at $23.3 billion, down from $24.1 billion. Meanwhile, the bank said earnings per share could fall to $0.71, down from Wall Street's estimates of $0.87 a share. "Looking at 2024, however, we see considerable downside risk to earnings expectations, due to much lower volume outlook than the market believes," the analysts wrote. They noted that Tesla suggested in an investor meeting that it was no longer planning to ramp up production in its Austin and Berlin factories next year to 10,000 units per week. The bank trimmed its 2024 production outlook for Tesla to just 2.1 million units next year, down from the consensus expectation of 2.3 million units. On a positive note, Tesla could face less pricing pressure next year, resulting in a modest price dip of 1% for its cars. The bank sees earnings per share of $3.90 in 2024, lower than consensus estimates of $4.76. Deutsche added that the next-generation vehicle platform will the key to unlocking further growth for Tesla, and that investors are closely watching the roll out of next-gen vehicles. "Beyond 2024, all eyes remain on Tesla's next-gen platform," the analysts wrote. "However, keeping the timeline to 2025 is critical, in our view, for investors to look past the soft 2024 and view it as a transitory year." Story continues Tesla has enjoyed a strong run up in its stock price in 2023, with shares rebounding from a dismal slide in 2022 amid Wall Street's optimism for artificial intelligence and renewed enthusiasm for high-flying growth stocks. Tesla stock traded around $235 a share on Wednesday, up 118% since the start of the year. Read the original article on Business Insider TEL AVIV, Israel & PARSIPPANY, N.J., September 28, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (NYSE and TASE: TEVA) today announced changes to its leadership team. Sven Dethlefs, Executive Vice President, North America Commercial, will leave Teva on November 17, 2023, and Christine (Chris) Fox, who most recently served as Global President, Gene Therapies at Novartis will be the new head of Tevas U.S. Commercial Business. "On behalf of the Teva Board of Directors and our executive management team, I want to thank Sven for his many contributions to Teva during his 15 years with the company," said Richard Francis, Tevas President, and Chief Executive Officer, "I am pleased to announce the appointment of Chris Fox to this critical role. Chris is a heralded pharmaceutical executive with extensive experience growing and overseeing complex business units and regional operations throughout the world. I have every confidence that Chris will bring great strength to Teva and be pivotal to our success." Biography: Christine Fox Christine (Chris) Fox comes to Teva as Executive Vice President, U.S. Commercial Business from her role at Novartis Gene Therapies where she started as President in December 2021. Prior to this role, Chris was vice president and general manager for the Bone, Cardiometabolic and Nephrology business for Amgen. She also served as the general manager of the companys United Kingdom and Ireland affiliate. Earlier in her career, she also held leadership positions at Merck, Takeda, and several startups. Chris brings more than 30 years of healthcare industry experience with leadership roles in sales, marketing, and commercial operations, responsible for teams ranging from 2500+ associates to small, nimble consulting teams. She has a deep understanding of issues affecting the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors, as well as expertise across a range of therapy areas. About Teva Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (NYSE and TASE: TEVA) has been developing and producing medicines to improve peoples lives for more than a century. We are a global leader in generic and innovative medicines with a portfolio consisting of over 3,500 products in nearly every therapeutic area. Around 200 million people around the world take a Teva medicine every day and are served by one of the largest and most complex supply chains in the pharmaceutical industry. Along with our established presence in generics, we have significant innovative research and operations supporting our growing portfolio of innovative and biopharmaceutical products. Learn more at www.tevapharm.com. Story continues Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are based on managements current beliefs and expectations and are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties, both known and unknown, that could cause our future results, performance, or achievements to differ significantly from that expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. You can identify these forward-looking statements by the use of words such as "should," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "target," "may," "project," "guidance," "intend," "plan," "believe" and other words and terms of similar meaning and expression in connection with any discussion of future operating or financial performance. Important factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include risks relating to: our business and operations in general, including our ability to attract, hire, integrate and retain highly skilled personnel; our ability to successfully compete in the marketplace; our substantial indebtedness; compliance, regulatory and litigation matters; other financial and economic risks; and other factors discussed in this press release, in our quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the second quarter of 2023, and in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, including in the sections captioned "Risk Factors" and "Forward Looking Statements." Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we assume no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements or other information contained herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. You are cautioned not to put undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928260229/en/ Contacts IR Contacts United States Ran Meir (267) 468-4475 Sanjeev Sharma (93) 524-1908 PR Contacts United States Kelley Dougherty (973) 658-0237 Yonatan Beker (973) 2647378 This TikToker told her followers to 'never date broke men' and got blasted for it. Here's what the numbers say about marriage and money in the US Dubai-based TikToker Sofia Kralows profile is filled with luxury-lifestyle content. Sparkling diamonds, designer clothing and accessories, helicopters, fancy cars and stacks of cash are frequently featured in her videos. She talks a lot about being a millionaire and a rich woman, but a recent video indicates that her lavish lifestyle is made possible, at least to some extent, by her wealthy husband, hedge fund manager and YouTuber Thomas Kralow. 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 In the video, Sofia urges her followers to never date broke men. With a soundtrack featuring a womans voice singing, Thank you to my man, the montage-style footage shows a series of aspirational clips: a designer handbag, a gift-wrapped luxury car and Sofia and her husband dancing in front of a helicopter. The video caused a backlash among commenters, many of whom said the message was antiquated. The controversy highlights the evolving reality of married womens financial position relative to their husbands. Even Sofias own marriage is not as financially one-sided as her video might indicate. Commenters resent 'broke men' message The video has 1.4 million views and over 1500 comments, some of which include women asking where they can find a man like Sofias husband and whether he has any friends. Many more defend love as involving more than money. Other viewers in the comments claim that they dont want a rich man, they want to be the rich man. One comment in particular accused Sofia of creating content that pushes women back 100 years by encouraging them to depend on a man for money. Story continues Great message, the commenter sarcastically stated. 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 Sofia responded to the comments in a second video, posing the question, Where is the connection between never dating a broke man and being dependent on a rich man or any man? She points out that women with wealthy partners can also be rich themselves, alluding to the fact that, while her husband may buy her extravagant and luxurious gifts, she has her own business ventures that contribute to their high-end lifestyle. Who's making the money in modern marriages? No matter your take on Sofias opinion of whom to date, her TikTok video and subsequent comments raise questions about the current financial dynamics between husbands and wives in modern-day America. Are men still the breadwinners or have women caught up? According to a study by the Pew Research Center, men are still the higher earners in the majority of opposite-sex marriages. But the situation has evolved drastically in the last 50 years: modern-day women are three times as likely to be the breadwinners today than they were in the early 1970s. The 2022 study shows 55% of opposite-sex marriages had a man as the breadwinner, where breadwinner is defined as a partner who earns at least 60% of the couples combined earnings. Only 16% of marriages had a breadwinning woman, and the remaining 29% of couples were egalitarian, meaning the husband and wife earn similar amounts of money. That means 45% of women make a similar amount or more than their husbands in modern America. While its encouraging to see women financially contributing more to marriages, research indicates a gender wage gap still exists, and unfortunately it has changed little in the last 20 years. A further study from Pew shows that, as of 2022, women made $0.82 for every $1 made by a man. To compare, in 2002, women made $0.80 for every $1 made by a man. This is in sharp contrast to the progress made in the previous two decades, when in 1982 women earned $0.65 for every $1 made by a man. What to read next Worried about the economy? Here are the best shock-proof assets for your portfolio. (Theyre all outside of the stock market.) Rising prices are throwing off Americans' retirement plans here's how to get your savings back on track Jeff Bezos and Oprah Winfrey invest in this asset to keep their wealth safe you may want to do the same in 2023 This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind. Conard Stitzlein, a pioneer in the fledgling U.S. titanium industry in the 1950s, who founded companies that would evolve into todays Tricor Industrial Inc., is the recipient of the International Titanium Association's (ITA) prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for 2023. Tricor touts itself as a leading international distributor of titanium mill products (plate, sheet, bar, billet, pipe and forgings) according to its website. Tricor also is involved in custom fabrication and builds process equipment in titanium, tantalum, zirconium, high-nickel alloys, duplex and 300-series stainless steel, as well as offering field repair crews. Stitzlein established operations in Wooster and also opened a facility in Conroe, Texas. Conard Stitzlein His extensive resume in the industry also includes being tapped, in 1984, as the first president of the ITA, which evolved from a group of metal industry executives known then as the Titanium Development Association. Stitzlein said one secret to his success is that he was always willing to ask for help, and then he honorably held up his end of the bargain. This is not just my award, he declared, citing his gratitude for being the recipient of the ITAs Lifetime Achievement honor. There were a lot of other people who helped me along the way. I knew where to go to get answers. People were anxious to help me. Im just a farm boy from Ohio. A pioneer in the industry He was a pioneer in developing and then promoting the titanium service center model to the chemical processing industry (CPI). He eventually grew his business into a major player in the fabrication of titanium equipment to chemical plants, as well as being a major source of stocked titanium for other fabricators and end users. He developed a stable of competent engineers that could design titanium into these various process equipment requirements. He created a network of companies that were instrumental in promoting early adoption of titanium into industrial applications. Story continues Stitzlein promoted new welding techniques for titanium in CPI applications. He tested and introduced novel design methods, such as using titanium Grade 2H per Division 2 of ASME to expand the use of titanium in the purified terephthalic acid (PTA) industry by making fabrications lower cost and more competitive with nickel alloys. He pushed the application of titanium for flue gas desulfurization (FGD) scrubbers in the electric power market, and worked on joint technical efforts in the 1980s to get titanium secured as an accepted corrosion resistant material in this market. Michael Stitzlein, Conards son and the current president of Tricor Industrial, offered heartfelt words to honor his dads long career. He instilled in me a strong work ethic and gave me responsibility at an early age and that our mission is to create employment. The most important thing I have learned from my father is to surround yourself with good people. Once titanium gets in your blood, its there to stay and thats why Wooster is one of hubs in the world for titanium. This article originally appeared on The Daily Record: Titanium Association honors Tricor Industrial's Conard Stitzlein In this article, we will be taking a look at the top 10 lithium mining companies in the world. To skip our detailed analysis, you can go directly to see the top 5 lithium mining companies in the world. The importance of lithium has grown exponentially as the world has dramatically increased its focus on electric vehicles (EV) in the past decade, and in 2021, 540,000 metric tons of lithium were produced, with only a few countries and companies dominating the entire industry. Around 74% of total demand for lithium is for the manufacturing of rechargeable batteries for EVs, and is considered to be a critical component in many countries, especially in China and Western countries, as its availability impacts the transition to renewable energy. top 10 lithium mining companies in the world Photo by Kumpan Electric on Unsplash Outlook for the lithium industry The lithium industry is expected to grow significantly within this decade as demand for EVs continue to grow, which is explained further in the countries with the most electric vehicles. While 10 million EVs were produced in 2020, and in Q1 2023, a 25% increase was witnessed quarter on quarter, which is why it should come as no surprise that lithium production is expected to grow by 5 times within the decade and reach 3 million metric tons in 2022. However, despite China being by far the biggest market in the world for EVs, accounting for nearly 60% of the total market, it is surprisingly still not the biggest lithium producer in the world. That accolade goes to Australia, where over half of the global supply of lithium is produced, which is why most of the biggest lithium mining companies in the world maintain operations in Australia, though Bolivia has the greatest lithium reserves in the world. However, the countries that produce the most lithium batteries by a distance are the U.S. and China. Africa is expecting to become another major destination in terms of lithium production, with reserves discovered in several countries in the continent including Namibia, Ghana, Zimbabwe, DRC and Mali. This could also result in these countries becoming an attractive proposition for investors, and could help transform their fortunes, with many African countries being counted among the worst nations in the world to live in. This is especially relevant considering the fact that lithium demand has led to its price skyrocketing in the last couple of years. In fact, the price was 12 times higher in November 2022 as compared to 2021 and countries like Zimbabwe, which has been mining lithium for decades, have taken note of the potential fortune that the nation can earn, though prices have fallen since. Story continues However, the issue for African nations is often the fact that often they don't have the facilities, infrastructure and technology required to mine what they do have, and to find solutions to extract their reserves fully. After all, the International Trade Association believes that if Zimbabwe is able to fully extract resources already available, it could even meet up to 20% of the total global demand, and could become an in-demand country for lithium mining operations for the biggest global lithium companies. Environmental cost of lithium extraction Despite lithium being considered to be the raw material for a movement that is expected to benefit climate change exponentially, concerns are now being raised regarding lithium extraction costs, especially in countries where environmental regulations are lax. For example, in South America, lithium-rich deposits can be found in salt fields in Chile, Argentina and Bolivia, and while lithium extraction is expected to herald a cleaner future, the extraction itself is harmful to the environment. A Friends of the Earth report stated called out this impact stating it's "increasingly affecting communities where this harmful extraction takes place, jeopardizing their access to water, with water diversion impacting communities already affected by water scarcity. Greater compliance with environmental regulations was also mentioned by one of the biggest lithium companies in Albemarle, which mentioned in its Q2 2023 earnings call " Yes. I think, look, we have a lot of effort on R&D development, particularly around process chemistry and extraction around that. But I think the autoclave process is one of the ones we're investigating, and I think the industry is looking at, but it's down the road. So we're focused on not only kind of near term, what we're operating today, because we think there are significant productivity gains that we get out of our existing facilities as we've developed more sophisticated processes around that in the years to come. So the new plants we're bringing up today, we see big productivity opportunities going forward for the next, well, 10 years probably, and probably beyond that as we get better and better at the process chemistry. It's still early technology. It's been operated for quite some time, but at scale, it's still early technology. And then new technologies around that with different leaching agents and different techniques like pressure with an autoclave is something that we're looking at, but it's not something that's going to be in scale production in the next year or two." Is lithium running out? However, perhaps the biggest concern right now for the largest lithium producers in the world is the belief that lithium reserves may be running out, which is also having an impact on prices. The more pessimistic view expects that lithium reserves may even run out as soon as 2025, which would be devastating for the EV industry. On the other hand, many analysts believe that the reserves will last longer but still run out by 2030. BMI's research indicates that lithium will run out by 2025 and China is likely to drive this shortage. We mentioned earlier that it's the biggest market for EVs and BMI estimates that demand will rise by 20.4% year-on-year from 2023 to 2032, though its lithium product will only increase by 6% in the same timeframe, and hence, will be unable to satisfy even a third of total demand in the country. Currently, there are just over 100 lithium mines globally, and though there are dozens of projects established to discover and explore new reserves, the process is incredibly time consuming and expensive, not to mention quite complex and hence, discoveries are unlikely to be able to fully satiate demand within time. The Vice President of Rystad Energy Susan Zou estimated that supply will jump by 30% to 40% year on year in 2023 and 2024, with the increased output resulting in shortages beginning from 2028. In the next couple of years, though the lithium supply may stay adequate at a world-level, regional supply imbalance is still inevitable, Zou said, adding The global battery supply chain may find lithium in shortfall again approaching the end of this decade when the supply growth might not keep pace with that of the demand.". The fact that the process of a fully operating lithium takes 10 years from the discovery of the mine does not bode well for lithium supply in the next several years either. This higher demand has been called out by Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A. (NYSE:SQM) in its Q2 2023 earnings stating "We continue to see strong fundamentals behind lithium demand growth with the global EV sales showing another strong performance during the second quarter, increasing 50% year-over-year. We believe that the total EV sales growth could be close to 30% this year when compared to 2022. And the global lithium demand could increase at least 20% this year compared to the previous year." Methodology To determine the biggest lithium mining companies in the world, we have ranked them based on their latest revenue, obtained from either Yahoo Finance or their own financial information, where available. 10. Lithium Americas Corp. (NYSE:LAC) 2023 Annual Revenue: $o Lithium Americas Corp. (NYSE:LAC) runs operations in not just the U.S. but also in Argentina, where its project recently announced its first production. The company has gone into the divestment route and agreed a split into two different companies, which was approved by shareholders recently. Lithium Americas Corp. (NYSE:LAC) also recently received help from Ford Motor Company, which announced a $650 million investment to develop the Thacker Pass lithium mining project in Nevada. 9. Livent Corporation (NYSE:LTHM) 2023 Annual Revenue: $813 million Livent Corporation (NYSE:LTHM) has announced a merger with Allkem to create a global lithium mining giant. The deal is expected to close by the end of this year and the resulting company will probably be among the top 5 lithium mining giants, with the new company expected to be valued at $10.6 billion. 8. Allkem 2023 Annual Revenue: $1.2 billion Allkem recently entered into an agreement with Livent Corporation in a merger worth $10.6 billion and the new company is going to be much higher in our list of biggest lithium mining companies. 7. Sichuan Yahua Industrial Group Co. Ltd. 2023 Annual Revenue: $1.76 billion Sichuan Yahua recently expanded a sales deal with Core Lithium from Australia, with the former being a major supplier of lithium batteries in China and also has part ownership in a lithium mine in Sichuan. 6. Mineral Resources Limited 2022 Annual Revenue: $3.4 billion The largest Australian lithium mining company, Mineral Resources Limited recently entered into an agreement with Lithium Australia, to use the latter's patented extraction method in order to derive a yield 50% above current industry averages, where Mineral Resources will provide up to A$4.5 million. The announcement resulted in Lithium Australia's share price jumping by over 60%. Please continue to see the top 5 Lithium Mining Companies in the World. Suggested articles: Disclosure: None. Top 10 lithium mining companies in the world is originally published at Insider Monkey. This Topeka business makes one of the coolest products in Kansas. And you get to help decide just how cool it is. The Kansas Manufacturing Council is organizing the "2023 Coolest Thing Made in Kansas People's Choice Tournament." Any product that is made in Kansas using a manufacturing process qualifies for the competition, its website said. Topeka's PlainsCraft Covered Wagons is in the Top 8 of the voting competition. Dennis and Donna Steinman, owners of PlainsCraft, stand on the deck of one of their specialty wagons. The Topeka company that offers the glamping experience has made the final eight of a "Coolest Thing Made in Kansas" contest. PlainsCraft Covered Wagons started as a small business Since January 2020, PlainsCraft owners Dennis and Donna Steinman have built wagons in Topeka that promise a wilder kind of experience. PlainsCraft builds covered, pioneer-style wagons that can be customized to suit the needs of buyers. The wagons are intended for glamping, or glamorous camping, which allows people to feel more connected to their natural surroundings without giving up the amenities they love. Since beginning, the wagon business has grown from three employees to its current 15, Dennis Steinman said. He said they have sold wagons in places as far away as Canada. A small living-room area occupies the front part of a PlainsCraft covered wagon, while a queen bed, tables, dressers and a bathroom in the back complete the fully furnished space. "The glamping market is growing," he told The Capital-Journal. "We're doing well." PlainsCraft wagons are about 225 square feet and start at about $27,000 each. They can fluctuate in price depending on the amenities that buyers request. Along with being in the Coolest Things Made in Kansas competition, the Steinmans are preparing to attend a glamping show in Aurora, Colorado. More: Why a local cancer survivor and her family are so happy for Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift "It's very fulfilling and it's nice to see and participate in a market where there's a lot of growth," Dennis Steinman said. "It's fun to see our people grow and get to do more and more. "Growth is fun and challenging." How does the competition work and how can you vote? The People's Choice contest began with product nominations and the first round of voting, the website said. The top 16 votegetters began a tournament-style bracket. Businesses chosen will go on to compete in head-to-head matchups. Story continues The business product that receives the most votes in each matchup will advance to the next round, moving one step closer to winning this year's title. PlainsCraft Covered Wagons won its first-round matchup vs. Landoll's Traveling Axle Trailer, made in Marysville, and now faces the Conquistador Wheel Corral made by MJE Livestock Equipment in Montezuma. More: Take a walk through antebellum Kansas with this Eagle Scout's tour of Tecumseh In the first round, Mars Wrigley's M&M's Caramel Chocolate Candies, made in Topeka, lost its match against vinyl records made by Quality Record Pressings in Salina. The People's Choice winner will be announced during the Kansas Manufacturing Summit on Oct. 24 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, 400 W. Waterman St. in Wichita. Votes can now be cast for the second round through 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 6. To vote, visit www.kansascool.com. Keishera Lately is the business reporter for the Topeka Capital-Journal. She can be reached at klately@cjonline.com. Follow her on Twitter @Lately_KT. This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Coolest thing made in Kansas could be PlainsCraft covered wagons TransAlta Corp (NYSE:TAC) experienced a daily loss of 4.31% and a 3-month loss of 4.13%, with an Earnings Per Share (EPS) of 0.7. Despite these figures, the question remains: Is the stock modestly undervalued? This article delves into a comprehensive valuation analysis of TransAlta (NYSE:TAC), providing valuable insights for investors. Company Overview TransAlta is a leading independent power producer based in Alberta, Canada. The company operates a diverse fleet of electrical power generation assets across Canada, the United States, and Australia. These assets include hydro, wind, solar, battery storage, gas, and energy transition facilities. The majority of TransAlta's revenues stem from the sale of generation capacity, electricity, thermal energy, environmental attributes, and byproducts of power generation. Currently, TransAlta's stock price stands at $8.87, while its GF Value, an estimate of fair value, is $12.2. This discrepancy suggests that the stock may be modestly undervalued. The company's market cap is $2.30 billion, with sales reaching $2.60 billion. TransAlta (TAC)'s True Worth: Is It Overpriced? An In-Depth Exploration Understanding GF Value The GF Value is a unique measure of a stock's intrinsic value, calculated based on historical trading multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor, and future business performance estimates. The GF Value Line provides an overview of the stock's ideal fair trading value. TransAlta's current GF Value suggests that the stock is modestly undervalued. If a stock price is significantly above the GF Value Line, it indicates overvaluation and potentially poor future returns. Conversely, if it's significantly below the GF Value Line, higher future returns are likely. Given TransAlta's relative undervaluation, the long-term return of its stock is likely to exceed its business growth. TransAlta (TAC)'s True Worth: Is It Overpriced? An In-Depth Exploration Assessing Financial Strength Investing in companies with weak financial strength can lead to permanent capital loss. Therefore, it's crucial to review a company's financial strength before purchasing its shares. TransAlta's cash-to-debt ratio is 0.27, ranking better than 52.88% of companies in the Utilities - Independent Power Producers industry. However, GuruFocus ranks TransAlta's financial strength as 4 out of 10, indicating a poor balance sheet. Story continues TransAlta (TAC)'s True Worth: Is It Overpriced? An In-Depth Exploration Profitability and Growth Investing in profitable companies generally carries less risk. TransAlta has been profitable for 5 years over the past decade. With revenues of $2.60 billion and an Earnings Per Share (EPS) of $0.7 in the past 12 months, the company's operating margin of 23.65% is better than 65.12% of companies in the same industry. Growth is a critical factor in a company's valuation. TransAlta's average annual revenue growth is 9.8%, ranking worse than 51.24% of companies in the Utilities - Independent Power Producers industry. The 3-year average EBITDA growth is 4.4%, ranking worse than 55.72% of companies in the same industry. ROIC vs WACC The comparison between a company's Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) and the Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC) is a key profitability indicator. When the ROIC is higher than the WACC, it suggests the company is creating value for shareholders. TransAlta's ROIC for the past 12 months is 7.57, and its WACC is 6.13. TransAlta (TAC)'s True Worth: Is It Overpriced? An In-Depth Exploration Conclusion In conclusion, TransAlta (NYSE:TAC) appears to be modestly undervalued. Although the company's financial condition is poor, its profitability is fair. However, its growth ranks worse than 55.72% of companies in the Utilities - Independent Power Producers industry. For more information about TransAlta's stock, check out its 30-Year Financials here. For high-quality companies that may deliver above-average returns, consider the GuruFocus High Quality Low Capex Screener. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Triastek, Inc. Nanjing, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Triastek, Inc. ("Triastek") today announced the completion of a USD 20.4 million Pre-C financing round. This milestone marks a significant step in the advancement of Triastek's innovative solutions for drug development and manufacturing. The Pre-C funding round was led by Guoxin Investment ("Guoxin"), with participation from Goldmine Multi-family Office ("Goldmine") and existing investor Mr. Xiaodong Zheng, president of Shanghai Tofflon Science and Technology Co. Ltd. ("Tofflon"), while China Renaissance served as the exclusive financial advisor. Prior to this, Triastek successfully attracted renowned investors including Tasly Holding Group, Morningside Venture Capital, Volcanics Venture, Dalton Venture, Yunqi Partners, Mr. Xiaodong Zheng, Matrix Partners China, CPE, Shanghai Sci-Tech Innovation Center Capital, and Triwise Capital. Triasteks proprietary technology, the Melt Extrusion Deposition (MED) 3D printing process, combined with digital formulation development methods, enables complex drug delivery and programmed release. Triastek is also actively developing new technology processes, including Semi-Solid Extrusion, Micro-Injection Molding, and Micro-Droplet Jetting. The combination of these technologies with MED offers a wide range of solutions for pharmaceutical delivery and development needs, such as oral peptides, gastric retention, and high potency products. Triastek, as a leading provider of digital pharmaceutical process technology, is continuously advancing applications of 3D printing technology to produce novel pharmaceutical products that improve patient outcomes. The company has engaged in extensive business collaborations with global pharmaceutical companies, focusing on novel products and advanced technical solutions. Currently, Triastek has established strategic partnerships with Eli Lilly, Merck KGaA, Boehringer Ingelheim, Siemens, and Sperogenix. Story continues Founded in 2015, Triastek has risen as a global leader in field of 3D printing pharmaceuticals, achieving numerous impressive accomplishments including: The holder of the highest number of patents, accounting for over 20% of patent applications worldwide in the realm of pharmaceutical 3D printing technology The company with the largest number of 3D-printed products, with three of its products gaining IND clearance from US FDA and one gaining IND from NMPA The highest production capacity in 3D-printed drug manufacturing, with self-built 3D printing pharmaceutical continuous production line compliant with GMP standards, current capacity up to 75 million tablets annually. The only Chinese pharmaceutical company selected for the US FDA's Emerging Technology Program (ETP) Dr. Senping Cheng, Founder and CEO of Triastek, shared her vision of the companys future, stating, "As Triastek enters a new phase of development, we will continue to explore the MED process and platform, comprehensively promote the commercialization of our technologies and products, work hand in hand with global partners, and drive the industry towards digital product development and intelligent manufacturing." "As a global leader, Triastek is gaining recognition from regulators and partners. We are excited to be part of this financing round and look forward to Triastek expanding collaborations and achieving technical advancements as a benchmark enterprise in the field of high-end formulations," said Mr. Lu Zhen, CEO of Guoxin. "Supporting groundbreaking companies like Triastek enables our family capital to achieve high-quality inheritance while making valuable contributions to society," said Goldmine. "We are excited to see Triastek advancing such an emerging technology from concept to commercial production. We will work with Triastek to support the development of China's pharmaceutical modernization," said Mr. Xiaodong Zheng, president of Tofflon. "We firmly believe that Triastek's innovative technology has vast application potential. We will continue to walk with the company on its path of development and we look forward to Triastek's innovative technologies helping more and more innovative drug products to be successfully developed and achieve clinical benefits as soon as possible," said Ms. Jiang Jiajia, Managing Director of the Medical and Life Sciences Division at China Renaissance. About Triastek Triastek is a global leader in 3D printing pharmaceuticals, pioneering the next generation of digital pharmaceutical processes. Founded in July 2015, Triastek is dedicated to the mission of "revolutionizing the pharmaceutical industry, unlocking the next generation of medicine and benefitting patients worldwide." We have created the Melt Extrusion Deposition (MED) 3D printing pharmaceutical process, transforming the delivery, development, and production of medication through digital product development and continuous manufacturing. Leveraging our proprietary 3D printing pharmaceutical technology, we design and develop transformative medications for patients. Through collaboration with global pharmaceutical companies, we tackle challenging formulation issues, accelerating the development of new drug products and improving the quality of pharmaceuticals. Our vision is to become the world's most influential intelligent pharmaceutical enterprise. CONTACT: Contact person Danni Gou: dgou@triastek.com Donald Trump arrived in Michigan Wednesday with a lot more support among blue collar union members than a lot of Republican presidential candidates before him. But his record as president is decidedly anti-union. I want a future that protects American labor, not foreign labor, he said at a rally Wednesday in Detroit, where he opened his speech by praising blue collar workers. Former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump addresses auto workers as he skips the second GOP debate, in Clinton Township, Michigan, U.S., September 27, 2023. REUTERS/Rebecca Cook But the National Labor Relations Board, which oversees labor relations at most businesses, and Trumps court appointments, particularly to the Supreme Court, have handed unions major setbacks since he took office in 2017. Hes not supportive of workers right to organize, bargain collectively or strike, said Cathy Creighton, an NLRB attorney during the Clinton administration and a union lawyer who now serves as the head of the Buffalo, New York office of Cornell Universitys school of Industrial and Labor Relations. Other Republican presidents said they were pro-business, or that they think labor has too much power. He tells working Americans hes on their side when everything he did was anti-union. Anti-union decisions During Trumps term, the NLRB members he appointed made it more difficult for unions to win representation at nonunion workplaces, extending the time between when a union files for representation to when an election is held, and thus granting management more time to campaign against the union with its employees. The Biden NLRB has rolled back those rules after they were struck down in court, and it is moving to make it easier for a union to organize. The Trump Supreme Court also issued a devasting ruling against public sector unions, which represent almost as many union members as found at private businesses. The 2018 decision, with Justice Neil Gorsuch, a Trump appointee, providing the deciding fifth vote, makes it easier for government employees nationwide to not pay union dues even if their workplace is unionized. Trump was famous for making promises that he would stop businesses from moving operations out of the country or shutting them down. Among his most vocal promises was that he would stop GM from closing the massive assembly plant in Lordstown, Ohio. Story continues In a 2017 speech in nearby Youngstown, he promised residents that manufacturing jobs would be returning to the region, telling the crowd: Dont move. Dont sell your house. But two years later GM closed the plant, despite Trumps calls to GM CEO Mary Barra and attacks on the companys closure plans. The company that bought the plant with plans to to eventually hire thousands of workers, Lordstown Motors, produced more losses than pickup trucks, and has already filed for bankruptcy and halted operations. Trump promised he would impose steep tariffs on vehicles coming from Mexico, a promise he is making again now on the campaign trail. But his 2020 update of the North American Free Trade Agreement, which has long been deeply unpopular with many blue collar workers, imposed no such tariffs on vehicles coming from Mexico, and has done little to change the flow of vehicles across US borders. While Trump says he created auto jobs and that the Biden administration is destroying them, Michigan lost 1,900 auto manufacturing jobs, or 4% of the total, between February 2017, just after Trump took office in through February 2020, just before the start of the pandemic, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The state gained 1,800 auto jobs from February 2021, Bidens first month in office, through February of this year. Battles with the UAW As Trump travels to Michigan in the midst of a strike by the United Auto Workers union against General Motors, Ford and Stellantis, he does so after taking shots at the union leadership conducting the strike. He is speaking at Drake Enterprises, the non-union auto parts manufacturer in Macomb County, outside of Detroit, which is not involved in the UAW strike. A source with the UAW said it does not consider Trumps visit to that company a sign of support for striking autoworkers, even if there are UAW members in the crowd. Former President Donald Trump tours Drake Enterprises, an automotive supply company, in Clinton Township, Mich., Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. (AP Photo/Mike Mulholland) Trump frequently clashed with unions when he was in business, probably more than any president before his first election. And he and UAW leadership have been taking shots at each other for some time now. On Labor Day, as the industry was hurtling toward the unions first simultaneous strike against all three automakers, Trump attacked both management and the union leadership for not doing more to fight the Biden administrations efforts to promote the switch from gas-powered vehicles to electric vehicles, predicting that if that happened, the US auto industry would be wiped out. If the union bosses and the CEOs refuse to fight back against Crooked Joe Biden, by forcing him to repeal this disastrous electric car scheme, then you will know theyre not pro-worker, theyre not on your side, theyve got some deals going for themselves, he said in a recorded message. And Trump urged UAW members to stop paying their union dues. You should not pay your dues because theyre selling you to hell. Youre going to be going to hell. Youre not going to have any jobs. All those cars are going to be made in China, he said. A man holds up a sign in support of former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, in Clinton Township, Michigan. U.S., September 27, 2023. REUTERS/Rebecca Cook Meanwhile while the UAW has been critical of industry plans to convert to EVs, and has thus far withheld an endorsement for Biden, UAW President Shawn Fain has leveled his sharpest attacks at Trump. He said he has no plans to meet with him when he visits Michigan Wednesday, the day after Fain met with Biden during a visit to a GM picket line. I see no point in meeting with him because I dont think the man has any bit of care about what our workers stand for, what the working class stands for, Fain told CNN Tuesday. He serves the billionaire class and thats whats wrong with our country. Asked if that was an endorsement of Biden, Fain replied, Its not an endorsement for anyone, its just flat-out how I view the former president. Rank-and-file support for Trump Trumps campaign staff said it doesnt believe that the union leadership necessarily speaks for the views of rank-and-file members. The reality is that theres a disconnect between the political leadership of some of the labor unions and the working middle class employees that they purport to represent, Trump senior campaign adviser Jason Miller told CNN. Former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump looks on while his supporters cheer on the day he addresses auto workers as he skips the second GOP debate, in Clinton Township, Michigan, U.S., September 27, 2023. REUTERS/Rebecca Cook And some polls show that about 40% of autoworkers supported Trump in the last election, said Art Wheaton, the director of labor studies at Cornell Universitys ILR school in Buffalo. Wednesday night Trump told his Michigan rally that EVs would destroy the US auto industry. You can be loyal to American labor or loyal to environmental lunatics. You cant be loyal to both, he said. Wheaton and other labor professors say that Trumps rhetoric taking a tough line on imports or his criticism of EVs, seen as a threat to union jobs by many autoworkers, has played well with union members, even if they say his record is basically anti-union. You hear [that support for Trump] on picket lines. Theres quite a few who like his message, Wheaton said. He really did strong comments about outsourcing of jobs and moving factories overseas, said Todd Vachon, a professor of labor studies at Rutgers University. We hadnt heard that from either party before that. And beyond issues of labor law and labor-management relations, many of the rank-and-file like Trump for other, non-labor issues. The people working on the floor blue collar, average guys working hourly for the Big Three supported Donald Trump because they have traditional values. They own guns. They dont want their gun rights taken away or restricted. Theyre predominantly anti-abortion, said Brian Pannebecker, a staunch Trump supporter and president of Auto Workers for Trump. CNNs Kristen Holmes, Alayna Treene and Daniel Strauss contributed to this report For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com On Friday, United Auto Workers union President Shawn Fain announced two more plants and more than 7,000 more workers going on strike, but Spring Hill in Tennessee still is at work. For two weeks the UAW union strike has been going on. More than 18,000 workers across 21 states and 41 General Motors, Ford and Stellantis facilities are on the picket lines striking for a better contract and even more were called to join at noon Friday. Fain called for workers at a Ford assembly plant in Chicago and GM's Lansing Delta Township plant to walk out. On Sept. 22, Fain told members of the UAW in the Spring Hill plant GM's largest plant in North America to wait to join the "Stand up and Strike" strike. But in his Sept. 29 message, he didn't address union members there specifically. Along with the call for more to join the picket lines on Friday, it has been an eventful week in the union strike. Both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump joined not the Detroit Three, but the striking workers on the picket line. The visit may have bolstered union members and broke precedent, but it's probably not enough to get talks rolling as UAW President Shawn Fain is expected to announce the next round of walk-offs at plants in the U.S. on Friday. The question for Tennessee is, will it include Spring Hill? Livestream: Watch the UAW announcement for Friday, Sept. 29 Fain is expected to announce more plant walk-offs on Friday, Sept. 29. Watch the live Youtube feed here. Why is the UAW on strike? The strike occurred after contract talks between the UAW and the Detroit Three automakers fell through. UAW called the strike when the deadline to make a new deal passed at 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 14. Around 13,000 union members in Ohio, Missouri and Michigan walked off the job and picket lines soon began forming. The three plants were a start. If contract negotiations aren't settled more plants could be called to join the "Stand up Strike". Story continues "Instead of striking all plants at once, select locals will be called on to 'Stand up' and walk out on strike," the union said on its website. Why hasn't the Spring Hill plant walked out? Workers at the Spring Hill plant are still at work but are waiting for the call to join their fellow union members on the picket line. On Sept. 22, Fain called for 38 GM and Stellantis parts distribution plants across the country to join the strike, but Spring Hill was not among those. Fain called on all parts distribution facilities to walk out, including one in Memphis that employs about 200 employees. In his Sept. 29 live stream, Fain was around 30 minutes late addressing viewers after more movement happened at the negotiation table. Fain stated that Stellantis had made some headway in negotiations, but GM and now Ford were playing hardball. UAW strike: Spring Hill GM autoworkers awaiting call to join walk outs Only two plants, one in Chicago and another in Lansing, Michigan, were called to walk-out. Leaving Spring Hill waiting for a call. The Tennessee plant near Nashville is the largest in North America at 11 million square feet and employs about 3,700 employees working under an expired contract. Of those employees, more than 3,000 are United Auto Workers members. Has Spring Hill workers been part of a UAW strike? This isn't the first time that Spring Hill workers could potentially be called to strike. In September 2019, the UAW called a strike on GM plants after negotiations between the two fell through. At that time all of the workers at the plant went on strike. What workers say: In Spring Hill, Tennessee, UAW wants better wages, insurance as strike threat remains What cars are manufactured at the Spring Hill General Motors plant? The assembly plant builds three types of Cadillac SUVs and the GMC Acadia. Cars that will be affected if Spring Hill strikes include the following: Cadillac: XT5 , XT6 , and the all-electric LYRIQ GMC: Acadia . What is the UAW asking for? Fain listed these "audacious" goals: elimination of wage tiers substantial wage increases restoration of cost of living allowance increases defined benefit pension for all workers reestablishment of retiree medical benefits the right to strike over plant closures limits on the use of temporary workers more paid time off increased benefits to current retirees Go deeper: What UAW's Shawn Fain hasn't talked about could provide focus for a deal What was so important about Biden, Trump visit to UAW strikers? For the first time in history as far as anyone remembers a sitting Democratic president, Biden, joined striking workers on a Wayne County, Michigan picket line on Tuesday. Then on Wednesday night, a former Republican president, Trump, came to Detroit, not to urge striking UAW members to reach a deal and get back to work but to demand that auto companies and the Biden administration back off a transition to electric vehicles as being too disruptive to workers' lives. What's happening now with the UAW Stand up Strike? The "Stand Up Strike," as union leaders have called it, is set to potentially become one of the largest in the industry's history. So far, around 18,300 workers across 21 states have joined the picket line and more are on the way as a deal has yet to be struck between the union and General Motors, Ford and Stellantis ( Jeep, Ram, Chrysler, Dodge and Fiat brands). The "Stand up Strike" has now been going on for two weeks and it is set to grow once more on Friday. With the addition of more union workers walking out, this has the potential to be one of the largest strikes in U.S. history. To add to the strike, General Motors and Stellantis announced layoffs that the automotive giants blamed on damage from the UAW strike. The layoffs started in Kansas, Ohio and Indiana. Where are UAW union workers on strike? So far, 38 parts distribution plants around the country are on strike. The 38 GM and Stellantis plants are scattered across 21 states. Fain cited headway at the negotiation table with Ford as a reason plants with the company were excluded. Two more plants were added Sept. 29. Plants to go on strike at noon on Friday, Sept. 29 Chicago Assembly, (Ford), 12600 S. Torrence Ave. in Chicago, Illinois Lansing Delta Township Assembly, (GM), 8175 Millett Highway, Lansing, Michigan The following GM sites are on strike: Pontiac Redistribution, 1251 Joslyn in Pontiac, Michigan Willow Run Redistribution, 50000 Ecorse Rd. in Belleville, Michigan Ypsilanti Processing Center, 2625 Tyler Rd. in Ypsilanti, Michigan Davison Rd. Processing Center, 4420 DavisonRd. in Burton, Michigan Flint Processing Center, 6060 W. Bristol Rd. in Swartz Creek, Michigan Lansing Redistribution, 4400 W. Mount Hope Rd. in Lansing, Michigan Cincinnati Parts Distribution, 8752 Jacquemin Dr. in West Chester, Ohio Denver Parts Distribution, 23400 E. Smith Rd. in Aurora, Colorado Hudson Parts Distribution, 2200 Willis Miller Dr. in Hudson, Wisconsin Chicago Parts Distribution, 1355 Remington Blvd. in Bolingbrook, Illinois Reno Parts Distribution Center, 6565 Echo Ave. in Reno, Nevada Rancho Cucamonga Parts Distribution, 9150 Hermosa Ave. in Rancho Cucamonga, California Fort Worth Parts Distribution, 301 Freedom Dr. in Roanoke, Texas Martinsburg Parts Distribution, 608 Caperton Blvd. in Martinsburg, West Virginia Jackson Parts Distribution, 1500 Marquette Road in Brandon, Mississippi Charlotte Parts Distribution, 10815 Quality Dr. in Charlotte, North Carolina Memphis AC Delco Parts Distribution, 5115 Pleasant Hill Road in Memphis, Tennessee Philadelphia Parts Distribution, 200 Cabot Blvd. E. in Lang Horne, Pennsylvania Stellantis locations on strike: Marysville, 840 E. Huron Blvd. in Marysville, Michigan Centerline Packaging, 26311 Lawrence in Center Line, Michigan Centerline Warehouse, 26311 Lawrence in Center Line, Michigan Sherwood, 21555 Sherwood Ave. in Warren, Michigan Warren Parts, 21035 Sherwood in Warren, Michigan QEC, 2021 Executive Hills Blvd. in Auburn Hills, Michigan Romulus, 16950 Pine in Romulus, Michigan Cleveland, 9777 Mopar Dr. in Streetsboro, Ohio Milwaukee, 3280 S. Clement Ave. in Milwaukee, Wisconsin Minneapolis, 13005 Hwy 55 in Plymouth, Minnesota Denver, 10728 Troy St. in Commerce City, Colorado Chicago, 1980 High Grove Lane in Naperville, Illinois Los Angeles, 5141 Santa Ana St. in Ontario, California Portland, 10030 SW Allen Blvd. in Beaverton, Oregon Atlanta, 1149 Citizens Parkway, Morrow, Georgia Winchester, 80 Tyson Dr. Winchester, Virginia Orlando, 10300 Boggy Creek Rd. in Orlando, Florida Dallas, 2205 E. Belt Line Rd. in Carrollton, Texas New York, 108 NY 303 in Tappan, New York Boston, 550 Forbes Blvd. in Mansfield, Massachusetts The original three sites where union members stepped out of production facilities will continue in the strike. The three original plants represent each company and include: Ford Michigan Assembly Plant (Final Assembly and Paint only) in Michigan Stellantis Toledo Assembly Complex in Ohio GM's Wentzville Assembly in Missouri The Detriot Free Press and USA Today contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: UAW strike update: Two more plants, but not Spring Hill, walk out On day 14 of the United Auto Workers strike against the Detroit Three, UAW leaders met with Stellantis, parent company of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram and Fiat, according to two sources. The midmorning meeting with Stellantis followed a late-afternoon meeting Wednesday at General Motors where GM leadership met with UAW President Shawn Fain. GM CEO Mary Barra was not at that meeting, the two people said. The people asked to not be named because they are not permitted to speak publicly about the matter. General Motors Corporation Davison Road Processing Center employee Ladonia Robbs, right, of Flint, stands with co-workers while on strike outside of General Motors Corporation Davison Road Processing Center in Burton on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023. As the Detroit Free Press reported earlier this week, the union and Ford had active talks through last weekend, but there were some key issues remaining. "There's been a lot of activity in the last 24 hours," one of the people familiar with the talks said Thursday. The person characterized it as "active conversations across all three companies." Fain is still scheduled to give a Facebook Live update on the state of negotiations at 10 a.m. Friday when he could name additional strike targets if substantial progress has not been made with the automakers. Currently, there are about 18,300 UAW members across the Detroit Three at 41 facilities in 21 states on strike, and nerves are high at some plants as to whether they will be called next to walk out, some workers said. "People are just ready," said Tommy Wolikow, a worker at GM's Flint Assembly plant, where GM builds its highly profitable heavy-duty pickups. "Were eager to get a contract agreed upon, but at the same time, were ready to react if need be. Were waiting for Shawn Fain to give us the information and give us the word to strike if we have to." Another worker at a different GM plant told the Free Press people are "tense" and have a fear of the unknown. They don't know when they will be called to strike or if there will be a deal. The person, who is not being named to protect their job security, also feels guilty that others are living on $500-a-week strike pay while they are still collecting pay for working. Story continues "We feel (Fain's) doing his best, but we have brothers and sisters out there and its going on two weeks now and were not joining them in solidarity," the worker said. "Theyre taking the brunt of this and were not. Meanwhile, some 3,500 UAW members who work at Mack Trucks plants in Pennsylvania, Florida and Maryland might be joining the other strikes across the nation. Their contract expires Sunday. In a UAW update Thursday posted on X (formerly called Twitter), Fain called the negotiations "painfully slow" and saying Mack rejected job security proposals, 401(k) increases, pensions for all and a cost-of-living adjustment, among other things. The contract covering 3,500 UAW members at Mack in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Florida expires this Sunday, October 1st. These members voted to authorize a strike by 98%. It's time to win a fair contract at Mack.#StandUpUAW pic.twitter.com/vs4XhbwLAG UAW (@UAW) September 28, 2023 In response, Mack posted a bargaining update on www.macktrucks.com disagreeing with Fain's characterization. "The bargaining teams have successfully reached tentative agreements on all 11 local contracts," Mack's update read. "Master Contract-level discussions are ongoing on a variety of economic, non-economic, and benefits issues. While it is true that the parties are currently far apart on the economics, this is not unusual at this point in the negotiations, and we expect progress in the coming days." More: Why UAW strike puts GM most at risk and Toyota in position to win More: Let me be blunt: UAW VP for GM has strong words about Trumps visit to Michigan Contact Jamie L. LaReau: jlareau@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter @jlareauan. Read more on General Motors and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: UAW strike: Contract talks active; jitters felt inside some plants Key Insights The considerable ownership by public companies in Unisem (M) Berhad indicates that they collectively have a greater say in management and business strategy A total of 2 investors have a majority stake in the company with 52% ownership Insider ownership in Unisem (M) Berhad is 13% To get a sense of who is truly in control of Unisem (M) Berhad (KLSE:UNISEM), it is important to understand the ownership structure of the business. With 41% stake, public companies possess the maximum shares in the company. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn). Individual investors, on the other hand, account for 29% of the company's stockholders. In the chart below, we zoom in on the different ownership groups of Unisem (M) Berhad. View our latest analysis for Unisem (M) Berhad What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Unisem (M) Berhad? 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. Unisem (M) Berhad 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. If multiple institutions change their view on a stock at the same time, you could see the share price drop fast. It's therefore worth looking at Unisem (M) Berhad's earnings history below. Of course, the future is what really matters. Hedge funds don't have many shares in Unisem (M) Berhad. Tianshui Huatian Technology Co., Ltd. is currently the company's largest shareholder with 41% of shares outstanding. With 10% and 3.0% of the shares outstanding respectively, Sin Chia and Employees Provident Fund of Malaysia are the second and third largest shareholders. Sin Chia, who is the second-largest shareholder, also happens to hold the title of Chief Executive Officer. Story continues A more detailed study of the shareholder registry showed us that 2 of the top shareholders have a considerable amount of ownership in the company, via their 52% stake. 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 a reasonable number of analysts covering the stock, so it might be useful to find out their aggregate view on the future. Insider Ownership Of Unisem (M) Berhad The definition of an insider can differ slightly between different countries, but members of the board of directors always count. Management ultimately answers to the board. However, it is not uncommon for managers to be executive board members, especially if they are a founder or the CEO. 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 information suggests that insiders maintain a significant holding in Unisem (M) Berhad. It has a market capitalization of just RM5.4b, and insiders have RM724m worth of shares in their own names. That's quite significant. Most would say this shows a good degree of alignment with shareholders, especially in a company of this size. You can click here to see if those insiders have been buying or selling. General Public Ownership The general public, who are usually individual investors, hold a 29% stake in Unisem (M) Berhad. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies. Public Company Ownership Public companies currently own 41% of Unisem (M) Berhad stock. It's hard to say for sure but this suggests they have entwined business interests. This might be a strategic stake, so it's worth watching this space for changes in ownership. Next Steps: I find it very interesting to look at who exactly owns a company. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. Case in point: We've spotted 1 warning sign for Unisem (M) Berhad you should be aware of. But ultimately it is the future, not the past, that will determine how well the owners of this business will do. Therefore we think it advisable to take a look at this free report showing whether analysts are predicting a brighter future. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Long-established in the Consumer Packaged Goods industry, Utz Brands Inc (NYSE:UTZ) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. However, it has recently witnessed a daily loss of 3.78%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of -15.57%. Fresh insights from the GF Score 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 Utz Brands Inc. Unraveling the Challenges Ahead for Utz Brands Inc (UTZ) Deciphering 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 Utz Brands Inc the GF Score of 58 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential. Understanding Utz Brands Inc's Business Utz Brands Inc is a snack food manufacturing company with a market cap of $1.12 billion. It manufactures a diverse portfolio of salty snacks under popular brands including Utz, Zapp's, Golden Flake, Good Health, Boulder Canyon, Hawaiian, TORTIYAHS!, among others. The company's products include potato chips, pretzels, cheese snacks, pork skins, pub/party mixes, and veggie snacks. Its products are distributed nationally and internationally through grocery, mass merchant, club, convenience, drug, and other channels. It operates in the given segment: the manufacturing, distribution, marketing and sale of snack food products. Story continues Unraveling the Challenges Ahead for Utz Brands Inc (UTZ) Financial Strength Breakdown Utz Brands Inc's financial strength indicators present some concerning insights about the company's balance sheet health. The company's interest coverage ratio of 0.48 positions it worse than 96.05% of 1367 companies in the Consumer Packaged Goods 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 0.93, which is below the distress zone of 1.81. This suggests that the company may face financial distress over the next few years. Additionally, the company's low cash-to-debt ratio at 0.07 indicates a struggle in handling existing debt levels. Furthermore, the company's debt-to-Ebitda ratio is 10.51, which is above Joel Tillinghast's warning level of 4 and is worse than 90.42% of 1368 companies in the Consumer Packaged Goods 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. Profitability Breakdown Utz Brands Inc's low Profitability rank can also raise warning signals. Utz Brands Inc's Operating Margin has declined over the past five years ((-83.34%)), as shown by the following data: 2018: 1.98; 2019: 3.32; 2020: 0; 2021: 0.74; 2022: 0.33. Additionally, Utz Brands Inc's Gross Margin has also declined over the past five years, as evidenced by the data: 2018: 34.55; 2019: 33.04; 2020: 0; 2021: 32.52; 2022: 31.88. This trend underscores the company's struggles to convert its revenue into profits. Growth Prospects A lack of significant growth is another area where Utz Brands Inc seems to falter, as evidenced by the company's low Growth rank. Unraveling the Challenges Ahead for Utz Brands Inc (UTZ) Conclusion Given the company's financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GF Score highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential underperformance. While Utz Brands Inc has a rich history and a diverse product portfolio, its current financial indicators suggest that it may struggle to maintain its past 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. An In-depth Analysis of the Company's Dividend Performance and Sustainability Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp (NPPXF) recently announced a dividend of $2.5 per share, payable on an undisclosed date, with the ex-dividend date set for 2023-09-28. As investors eagerly anticipate this upcoming payment, it's crucial to evaluate the company's dividend history, yield, and growth rates. Using the data from GuruFocus, this article delves into Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp's dividend performance and assesses its sustainability. Overview of Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp NTT owns NTT DoCoMo, the largest wireless operator in Japan, with 87.5 million subscribers. It also owns NTT East and NTT West, the two regional incumbent fixed-line operators in Japan, with about 12.1 million traditional fixed-line and 23.5 million broadband lines (around 72% of which are wholesaled). The firm also provides IT and communications systems integration via NTT Communications and 52.4%-owned NTT Data. Unraveling the Dividend Story of Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp (NPPXF) A Look into Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp's Dividend History Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 2004. Dividends are currently distributed on a bi-annually basis. Below is a chart showing annual Dividends Per Share for tracking historical trends. Unraveling the Dividend Story of Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp (NPPXF) Dissecting Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp's Dividend Yield and Growth As of today, Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 2.90% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 3.14%. This suggests an expectation of increased dividend payments over the next 12 months. Over the past three years, Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp's annual dividend growth rate was 8.10%. Extended to a five-year horizon, this rate increased to 9.40% per year. Over the past decade, Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at an impressive 12.90%. Story continues Based on Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp stock as of today is approximately 4.54%. Unraveling the Dividend Story of Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp (NPPXF) 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, Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp's dividend payout ratio is 0.34. Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp's profitability 8 out of 10 as of 2023-06-30, suggesting good profitability prospects. The company has reported positive net income for each year over the past decade, further solidifying its high profitability. Growth Metrics: The Future Outlook To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp'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 Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp's revenue per share, combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate, indicates a strong revenue model. Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp's revenue has increased by approximately 5.40% per year on average, a rate that outperforms than approximately 58.47% 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, Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp's earnings increased by approximately 14.60% per year on average, a rate that outperforms than approximately 63.58% of global competitors. Lastly, the company's 5-year EBITDA growth rate of 10.40%, which outperforms than approximately 58.77% of global competitors. Conclusion With a consistent dividend payment history, a promising growth rate, and robust profitability, Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp presents a compelling case for dividend investors. The company's impressive growth metrics further strengthen its position, making it a potentially lucrative investment opportunity. However, like any investment, it's crucial to conduct thorough research and consider the company's overall financial health before making a decision. GuruFocus Premium users can screen for high-dividend yield stocks using the High Dividend Yield Screener. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Delving into the Dividend Performance, Growth, and Sustainability of Mitsubishi Corp (MSBHF) Mitsubishi Corp(MSBHF) recently announced a dividend of $100 per share, payable on 0000-00-00, with the ex-dividend date set for 2023-09-28. 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 Mitsubishi Corp's dividend performance and assess its sustainability. Understanding Mitsubishi Corp's Business Model Mitsubishi Corp is a conglomerate that operates businesses in various industries. Its operating segments include Natural Gas, Industrial materials, Petroleum & chemicals, Mineral resource, Industrial Infrastructure, Automotive, Food & Consumer Industry, Power Solution, and Urban Development. Unraveling Mitsubishi Corp's Dividend Dynamics: A Comprehensive Analysis Decoding Mitsubishi Corp's Dividend History Mitsubishi Corp has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 2011. Dividends are currently distributed on a bi-annually basis. Below is a chart showing annual Dividends Per Share for tracking historical trends. Unraveling Mitsubishi Corp's Dividend Dynamics: A Comprehensive Analysis Breaking Down Mitsubishi Corp's Dividend Yield and Growth As of today, Mitsubishi Corp currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 2.57% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 3.01%. This suggests an expectation of increased dividend payments over the next 12 months. Over the past three years, Mitsubishi Corp's annual dividend growth rate was 10.90%. Extended to a five-year horizon, this rate decreased to 9.00% per year. And over the past decade, Mitsubishi Corp's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at an impressive 13.50%. Based on Mitsubishi Corp's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of Mitsubishi Corp stock as of today is approximately 3.95%. Story continues Unraveling Mitsubishi Corp's Dividend Dynamics: A Comprehensive Analysis Evaluating 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, Mitsubishi Corp's dividend payout ratio is 0.27. Mitsubishi Corp's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks Mitsubishi Corp's profitability 7 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. Assessing Future Prospects: Growth Metrics To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. Mitsubishi Corp's growth rank of 7 out of 10 suggests that the company's growth trajectory is good relative to its competitors. Revenue is the lifeblood of any company, and Mitsubishi Corp's revenue per share, combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate, indicates a strong revenue model. Mitsubishi Corp's revenue has increased by approximately 15.30% per year on average, a rate that outperforms than approximately 75.54% 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, Mitsubishi Corp's earnings increased by approximately 32.30% per year on average, a rate that outperforms than approximately 67.31% of global competitors. Lastly, the company's 5-year EBITDA growth rate of 14.10%, which outperforms than approximately 61.86% of global competitors. Conclusion In conclusion, Mitsubishi Corp's steady dividend payments, impressive growth rate, and sustainable payout ratio, coupled with its strong profitability and growth metrics, make it a potentially attractive investment for dividend-focused investors. However, as with any investment, it's crucial to conduct your own thorough research and analysis. GuruFocus Premium users can screen for high-dividend yield stocks using the High Dividend Yield Screener. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Assessing the Sustainability and Future of BXP's Dividend Performance Boston Properties Inc(NYSE:BXP) recently announced a dividend of $0.98 per share, payable on 2023-10-31, with the ex-dividend date set for 2023-09-28. 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 Boston Properties Incs dividend performance and assess its sustainability. Understanding Boston Properties Inc's Business Model Boston Properties owns over 190 properties consisting of approximately 54 million rentable square feet of space. The portfolio is dominated by office buildings and is spread across major cities such as New York, Boston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, and the Washington, D.C., region. The real estate investment trust also owns limited retail, hotel, and residential properties. Unveiling Boston Properties Inc's Dividend Prospects: A Deep Dive Analysis Tracing Boston Properties Inc's Dividend History Boston Properties Inc has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 1997. Dividends are currently distributed on a quarterly basis. Boston Properties 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. Below is a chart showing annual Dividends Per Share for tracking historical trends. Unveiling Boston Properties Inc's Dividend Prospects: A Deep Dive Analysis Dissecting Boston Properties Inc's Dividend Yield and Growth As of today, Boston Properties Inc currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 6.67% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 6.67%. This suggests an expectation of same dividend payments over the next 12 months. Story continues Over the past three years, Boston Properties Inc's annual dividend growth rate was 0.80%. Extended to a five-year horizon, this rate increased to 4.70% per year. And over the past decade, Boston Properties Inc's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at 6.20%. Based on Boston Properties Inc's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of Boston Properties Inc stock as of today is approximately 8.39%. Unveiling Boston Properties Inc's Dividend Prospects: A Deep Dive Analysis Evaluating 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, Boston Properties Inc's dividend payout ratio is 0.93. And this may suggest that the company's dividend may not be sustainable. Boston Properties Inc's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks Boston Properties Inc's profitability 8 out of 10 as of 2023-06-30, suggesting good profitability prospects. The company has reported positive net income for each of year over the past decade, further solidifying its high profitability. Forecasting Future Dividends: Growth Metrics To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. Boston Properties 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 Boston Properties Inc's revenue per share, combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate, indicates a strong revenue model. Boston Properties Inc's revenue has increased by approximately 1.20% per year on average, a rate that outperforms than approximately 51.57% 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, Boston Properties Inc's earnings increased by approximately 17.80% per year on average, a rate that outperforms than approximately 68.87% of global competitors. Lastly, the company's 5-year EBITDA growth rate of 9.30%, which outperforms than approximately 64.71% of global competitors. Concluding Thoughts In conclusion, Boston Properties Inc has demonstrated a consistent dividend payment history and a promising growth trajectory. However, the high payout ratio and the potential sustainability of its dividend are areas that investors should monitor closely. Despite these concerns, the company's robust profitability and growth metrics suggest a promising future. As always, investors are advised to conduct their own comprehensive analysis 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. With a daily loss of -2.83% and a 3-month loss of -14.15%, Brown-Forman Corp (NYSE:BF.B) has seen some turbulence in the market. Despite this, the company maintains an Earnings Per Share (EPS) of 1.59. The question that arises then is, is the stock modestly undervalued? This article aims to explore the valuation analysis of Brown-Forman, providing the reader with a comprehensive understanding of its market value. Introducing Brown-Forman Corp (NYSE:BF.B) Based in the U.S., Brown-Forman is a premium distilled spirits manufacturer, generating approximately 70% of its revenues from the whiskey category. The company's portfolio includes renowned brands like Jack Daniel's, Woodford Reserve, and Old Forester. Brown-Forman also manufactures and distributes tequila, vodka, rum, gin, and premium wines. With 47% of sales from its home market, the company has a strong international presence, particularly in Europe, Australia, and Latin America. The Brown family controls over 50% of the economic interests and voting power of the company. When comparing the stock price with the GF Value, an estimation of fair value, Brown-Forman's current price of $56.64 per share seems modestly undervalued. With a market cap of $27.40 billion, the company's value warrants a deeper analysis. Unveiling Brown-Forman (BF.B)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Understanding the GF Value The GF Value is a proprietary measure that represents the current intrinsic value of a stock. It is calculated based on historical multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on the company's past returns and growth, and future estimates of business performance. The GF Value Line on our summary page provides an overview of the fair value that the stock should ideally trade at. If the stock 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, it is undervalued, and its future return will likely be higher. Brown-Forman's stock shows every sign of being modestly undervalued. As a result, the long-term return of its stock is likely to be higher than its business growth. Story continues Unveiling Brown-Forman (BF.B)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Link: These companies may deliver higher future returns at reduced risk. Financial Strength Investing in companies with low financial strength could result in permanent capital loss. Therefore, it's crucial to review a company's financial strength before deciding to buy shares. Brown-Forman has a cash-to-debt ratio of 0.14, ranking worse than 72.91% of 203 companies in the Beverages - Alcoholic industry. Based on this, GuruFocus ranks Brown-Forman's financial strength as 6 out of 10, suggesting a fair balance sheet. Unveiling Brown-Forman (BF.B)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Profitability and Growth Companies that have been consistently profitable over the long term offer less risk for investors. Brown-Forman has been profitable 10 over the past 10 years. Over the past twelve months, the company had a revenue of $4.30 billion and Earnings Per Share (EPS) of $1.59. Its operating margin is 26.09%, ranking better than 87.26% of 212 companies in the Beverages - Alcoholic industry. Overall, the profitability of Brown-Forman is ranked 8 out of 10, indicating strong profitability. Growth is a crucial factor in the valuation of a company. Brown-Forman's 3-year average revenue growth rate is better than 59.18% of 196 companies in the Beverages - Alcoholic industry. However, its 3-year average EBITDA growth rate is 0.6%, ranking worse than 66.48% of 179 companies in the same industry. This growth rate indicates a need for improvement. ROIC vs WACC Another method of determining the profitability of a company is to compare its return on invested capital to the weighted average 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. When the ROIC is higher than the WACC, it implies the company is creating value for shareholders. For the past 12 months, Brown-Forman's return on invested capital is 14.54, and its cost of capital is 7.92. Unveiling Brown-Forman (BF.B)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Conclusion In conclusion, the stock of Brown-Forman (NYSE:BF.B) shows every sign of being modestly undervalued. The company's financial condition is fair and its profitability is strong. Its growth ranks worse than 66.48% of 179 companies in the Beverages - Alcoholic industry. To learn more about Brown-Forman stock, you can check out its 30-Year Financials here. To find out the high quality companies that may deliver above-average returns, please check out the GuruFocus High Quality Low Capex Screener. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Core Laboratories Inc (NYSE:CLB) recently experienced a daily gain of 6.36% and a 3-month gain of 5.19%. With an Earnings Per Share (EPS) of 0.5, it raises the question: is the stock fairly valued? This article aims to answer this question by conducting a thorough valuation analysis of Core Laboratories. We invite you to read on and gain valuable insights into the company's financial status and performance. A Snapshot of Core Laboratories Core Laboratories Inc is recognized as the leading provider of reservoir description and production enhancement services for oil and gas exploration and production. The company offers data and analytics to assist well operators in identifying optimal methods for recovering, processing, and refining hydrocarbons from a well. Additionally, it manufactures the necessary lab equipment for its services. With a stock price of $24.93 and a fair value (GF Value) of $25.99, Core Laboratories commands a market cap of $1.20 billion. Let's delve deeper into the company's value by examining its financial performance and key metrics. Unveiling Core Laboratories' True Worth: Is It Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Understanding the GF Value The GF Value is a unique measure representing the intrinsic value of a stock. It is determined based on historical trading multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor derived from the company's past returns and growth, and future estimates of business performance. Core Laboratories (NYSE:CLB) appears to be fairly valued according to the GuruFocus Value calculation. This estimate of fair value is based on historical multiples at which the stock has traded, past business growth, and future estimates of business performance. 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. With its current price of $24.93 per share and a market cap of $1.20 billion, Core Laboratories seems to be fairly valued. Story continues As Core Laboratories is fairly valued, the long-term return of its stock is likely to be close to the rate of its business growth. Unveiling Core Laboratories' True Worth: Is It Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Link: These companies may deliever higher future returns at reduced risk. Financial Strength of Core Laboratories Investing in companies with low financial strength could result in permanent capital loss. Therefore, it's crucial for investors to carefully review a company's financial strength before deciding to buy shares. Core Laboratories has a cash-to-debt ratio of 0.07, which ranks worse than 83.56% of 1034 companies in the Oil & Gas industry. Based on this, GuruFocus ranks Core Laboratories's financial strength as 5 out of 10, suggesting a fair balance sheet. Unveiling Core Laboratories' True Worth: Is It Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Profitability and Growth of Core Laboratories Companies that have been consistently profitable over the long term offer less risk for investors who may want to purchase shares. Higher profit margins usually dictate a better investment compared to a company with lower profit margins. Core Laboratories has been profitable 9 over the past 10 years. Over the past twelve months, the company had a revenue of $502.80 million and an Earnings Per Share (EPS) of $0.5. Its operating margin is 9.02%, which ranks better than 50.81% of 984 companies in the Oil & Gas industry. Overall, the profitability of Core Laboratories is ranked 8 out of 10, which indicates strong profitability. Growth is probably the most important factor in the valuation of a company. 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 Core Laboratories is -11.3%, which ranks worse than 83.99% of 862 companies in the Oil & Gas industry. The 3-year average EBITDA growth rate is -22.3%, which ranks worse than 87.09% of 829 companies in the Oil & Gas industry. ROIC vs WACC One can also evaluate a company's profitability by comparing its return on invested capital (ROIC) to its weighted average cost of capital (WACC). 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. If the return on invested capital exceeds the weighted average cost of capital, the company is likely creating value for its shareholders. During the past 12 months, Core Laboratories's ROIC is 6.1 while its WACC came in at 13.37. Unveiling Core Laboratories' True Worth: Is It Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Conclusion In conclusion, the stock of Core Laboratories (NYSE:CLB) shows every sign of being fairly valued. The company's financial condition is fair, and its profitability is strong. Its growth ranks worse than 87.09% of 829 companies in the Oil & Gas industry. To learn more about Core Laboratories 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. Today, we delve into the financial landscape of Digital Realty Trust Inc (NYSE:DLR), a company that has experienced a daily loss of 2.48%, a 3-month gain of 8.16%, and an Earnings Per Share (EPS) of 1.3. The question we aim to answer is: Is the stock modestly undervalued? Let's explore the valuation analysis to uncover the answer. Introduction to Digital Realty Trust Digital Realty Trust Inc (NYSE:DLR) is a leading global provider of data center, colocation, and interconnection solutions. With over 300 data centers across five continents, the company offers a range of services from retail co-location to "cold shells" for hyperscale cloud service providers. As of September 27, 2023, Digital Realty Trust (NYSE:DLR) is trading at $116.84 per share, with a market cap of $35.40 billion. According to our GF Value, the fair value of the stock stands at $156.85, suggesting that it may be modestly undervalued. Unveiling Digital Realty Trust (DLR)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Understanding the GF Value The GF Value is a unique measure that estimates the intrinsic value of a stock. It is calculated based on historical trading multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor, and future business performance estimates. Our GF Value suggests that Digital Realty Trust (NYSE:DLR) is modestly undervalued. 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. On the other hand, if it is significantly below the GF Value Line, its future return will likely be higher. Unveiling Digital Realty Trust (DLR)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Link: These companies may deliever higher future returns at reduced risk. Examining Financial Strength Investing in companies with low financial strength can result in permanent capital loss. Therefore, it's essential to review a company's financial strength before deciding to buy shares. Digital Realty Trust's cash-to-debt ratio of 0.01 ranks worse than 86.99% of 730 companies in the REITs industry, suggesting a poor balance sheet. Story continues Unveiling Digital Realty Trust (DLR)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Profitability and Growth Investing in profitable companies, especially those that have demonstrated consistent profitability over the long term, poses less risk. Digital Realty Trust has been profitable 10 over the past 10 years, with an operating margin of 13.39%, which ranks worse than 87.83% of 690 companies in the REITs industry. The average annual revenue growth of Digital Realty Trust is 0.9%, which ranks worse than 50.24% of 637 companies in the REITs industry. The 3-year average EBITDA growth is -8.9%, which ranks worse than 72.39% of 536 companies in the REITs industry. ROIC vs WACC Comparing a company's return on invested capital (ROIC) to its weighted average cost of capital (WACC) can provide insights into its profitability. ROIC measures how well a company generates cash flow relative to the capital it has invested in its business. WACC is the rate that a company is expected to pay on average to all its security holders to finance its assets. If the ROIC exceeds the WACC, the company is likely creating value for its shareholders. Over the past 12 months, Digital Realty Trust's ROIC is 1.53 while its WACC is at 7.63. Unveiling Digital Realty Trust (DLR)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Conclusion In conclusion, Digital Realty Trust (NYSE:DLR) stock appears to be modestly undervalued. However, the company's financial condition is poor, and its growth ranks worse than 72.39% of 536 companies in the REITs industry. To learn more about Digital Realty Trust stock, you can check out its 30-Year Financials here. To find out the high quality companies that may deliever above average returns, please check out GuruFocus High Quality Low Capex Screener. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile SA (NYSE:SQM) experienced a daily gain of 5.09% and a 3-month loss of -17.98%. Its Earnings Per Share (EPS) stands at 12.54. The question arises: Is the stock significantly undervalued? This article aims to answer this question by conducting a thorough valuation analysis. Read on to discover more about Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile SA's intrinsic value. Company Introduction Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile is a Chilean commodities producer with significant operations in lithium, specialty and standard potassium fertilizers, iodine, and solar salts. The company extracts these materials through its high-quality caliche ore and salt brine deposits. SQM is also developing a hard rock lithium project in Australia. The stock price currently stands at $57.63, while the GF Value, an estimation of fair value, is at $231.12. This suggests that the stock could be significantly undervalued. Unveiling Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile SA (SQM)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Understanding GF Value The GF Value represents the current intrinsic value of a stock derived from our exclusive method. This value is based on historical trading multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on the company's past performance and growth, and future estimates of business performance. If the stock 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. As per GuruFocus Value calculation, the stock of Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile SA (NYSE:SQM) is believed to be significantly undervalued. With its current price of $57.63 per share and the market cap of $16.50 billion, the future return of its stock is likely to be much higher than its business growth due to its significant undervaluation. Unveiling Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile SA (SQM)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Link: These companies may deliver higher future returns at reduced risk. Financial Strength Checking the financial strength of a company before buying its stock is crucial. Companies with poor financial strength have a higher risk of permanent loss. The cash-to-debt ratio and interest coverage can provide a great understanding of a company's financial strength. Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile SA has a cash-to-debt ratio of 0.76, which is better than 51% of 1506 companies in the Chemicals industry. The overall financial strength of Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile SA is 8 out of 10, indicating strong financial health. Story continues Unveiling Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile SA (SQM)'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, is less risky. A company with high profit margins is usually a safer investment than those with low profit margins. Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile SA has been profitable 10 over the past 10 years. Over the past twelve months, the company had a revenue of $10.40 billion and Earnings Per Share (EPS) of $12.54. Its operating margin is 48.76%, which ranks better than 99.15% of 1526 companies in the Chemicals industry. Overall, the profitability of Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile SA is ranked 9 out of 10, indicating strong profitability. Growth is probably the most important factor in the valuation of a company. 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 Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile SA is 81.3%, which ranks better than 98.21% of 1449 companies in the Chemicals industry. The 3-year average EBITDA growth rate is 135%, which ranks better than 98.73% of 1340 companies in the Chemicals industry. ROIC vs WACC One can also evaluate a company's profitability by comparing its return on invested capital (ROIC) to its weighted average cost of capital (WACC). 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. If the return on invested capital exceeds the weighted average cost of capital, the company is likely creating value for its shareholders. During the past 12 months, Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile SA's ROIC is 59.04 while its WACC came in at 12.63. Unveiling Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile SA (SQM)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Conclusion In summary, the stock of Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile SA (NYSE:SQM) is believed to be significantly undervalued. The company's financial condition is strong, and its profitability is robust. Its growth ranks better than 98.73% of 1340 companies in the Chemicals industry. To learn more about Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile SA 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. FILE PHOTO: The word "justice" is seen engraved at the headquarters of the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) in Washington, D.C. By Leah Douglas (Reuters) -The U.S. Department of Justice on Thursday filed an antitrust lawsuit against data company Agri Stats, alleging that its weekly reports on meat pricing and sales have enabled anticompetitive practices in the chicken, pork, and turkey industries. Meat companies including Smithfield Foods and Tyson Foods have previously faced lawsuits from restaurants and other food buyers alleging they use reports from Agri Stats to conspire to drive up meat prices. "Agri Stats operates its information exchanges to promote total industry profits at the expense of competition," said the DOJ's complaint. Attorney Justin Bernick of law firm Hogan Lovells, which is representing Agri Stats in the DOJ case, said the company denies the allegations. "Agri Stats provides vital benchmarking services that help keep production costs and prices low for consumers," Bernick said in an email. Meat processors pay millions of dollars for Agri Stats reports that include "loosely anonymized" cost, output, and price information, which the companies then use to align their prices with competitors, the DOJ complaint said. In one example laid out in the complaint, Tyson Foods in January 2010 allegedly told its sales employees to use Agri Stats data to negotiate for higher prices from retail buyers. Tyson did not respond to questions about whether the company uses Agri Stats reports or provide comment on the lawsuit. The companies using Agri Stats reports account for more than 90% of broiler chicken, 80% of pork, and 90% of turkey sales in the U.S., the DOJ said in a press release. (Reporting by Leah Douglas; editing by Barbara Lewis and Leslie Adler) Bradley Fighting Vehicles are loaded aboard the ARC Integrity in Charleston. (Photo: USTRANSCOM) America has committed a massive sum $43.7 billion and rising toward military equipment for Ukraine. Simultaneously, the U.S. and NATO have ramped up their joint exercise, Operation Atlantic Resolve, in the wake of Russias invasion of Ukraine. For heavy military equipment thats being transported across the Atlantic, ocean shipping plays a central role, led by one company in particular: U.S.-flag operator American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier (ARC). According to Chris Heibel, ARCs head of operations, Weve carried the majority of all the cargo going [across the Atlantic] in support of Ukraine and were also participating in cargo going in support of the big NATO exercise, Atlantic Resolve. Between August 2022 and July 2023, we moved approximately 32,000 pieces of equipment thats 5 million square feet of equipment to and from Europe to support these exercises and operations, Heibel said in an interview with FreightWaves. Five ships transporting military equipment to Europe ARC, a subsidiary of Norways Wallenius Wilhelmsen (Oslo: WAWI), is the largest operator of roll-on roll-off (ro-ro) vessels in the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP). Our main customer is the military, said ARC Vice President Charles Diorio. The company currently has five ro-ros moving military cargo to Europe: the Patriot, ARC Defender, ARC Independence and ARC Integrity in liner service, and the Endurance in opportunity service. According to Heibel, the Endurance is the only ship in the MSP thats capable of carrying an entire combat aviation brigade in one lift, so the military really likes to use her for big ugly moves. Weve got her in the Atlantic because thats where the preponderance of these big moves are right now. Ukraine-bound cargoes being carried by ARC include wheeled and tracked vehicles including Bradley Fighting Vehicles (BFVs) as well as missile systems, including mobile HIMARS systems. A news release from the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) showed 60 BFVs being loaded aboard the ARC Integrity in Charleston, South Carolina, in January. Story continues ARC ro-ros do not transport bulk ammunition or missiles. Equipment such as Stinger missiles are transported via container ships or breakbulk ships, said Heibel. Tanks roll off the ARC Endurance in Gdansk. (Photo: ARC) U.S. equipment for Ukraine and Atlantic Resolve is primarily loaded at two ports: Beaumont, Texas, and the TC Dock military terminal in Charleston. Military equipment for Ukraine began shipping in January, a USTRANSCOM spokesperson told FreightWaves. In general, military cargo is being discharged in Europe in Bremerhaven, Germany; Gdansk and Gdynia in Poland; Aarus and Esbjerg, Denmark; Klaipeda, Lithuania; Alexandroupoli, Greece; and more recently, Muuga, Estonia. Military specialists aboard some sailings How do ARC and the military address security concerns given that ARCs sailings schedules are posted on its website and its vessel positions are visible to anyone using a public ship-tracking service? We have regular meetings at the classified and unclassified level with USTRANSCOM, Heibel explained. The Military Sealift Command is present for those meetings and they do a threat assessment. In some cases, we carry specialized, trained Navy personnel on our ships. Those people bring on specialized communications gear and they use that gear to integrate us with the fleet thats operating in the area. Our crew also trains with those military people. Theyre trained on how to follow maneuvers and how to integrate into a fleet package. Asked whether Navy personnel are aboard all ARC ships carrying military equipment to Europe, he said it was only in some cases. In central Europe with our standard liner services, theres a lower threat level than if youre operating in other areas. The bottom line is that they communicate when they want us to have these [military personnel] packages onboard and we gladly accept them and follow all their rules. Equipment moving across multiple transport modes ARC is just one cog in a much broader logistics operation that encompasses multiple shipowners, air cargo operations, trucking and rail. U.S. Transportation Command is inextricably connected with commercial carriers for air, land and sea modes of transportation, said the USTRANSCOM spokesperson. ARC, as well as other U.S.-flag carriers, are routinely contracted to deliver a wide variety of cargo for U.S. troop rotations and in support of allies and partners all over the globe. Trans-Atlantic shipping volumes have increased substantially, not only due to cargo for Ukraine, but also for Atlantic Resolve, which began in response to Russian military action in Ukraine in 2014. Atlantic Resolve has been going on for years as a NATO-U.S. joint exercise, but they changed the size and scope of the exercise after the invasion of Ukraine, said Heibel. Military vehicles transported aboard the ARC Endurance in Alexandroupoli, Greece. (Photo: ARC) Commenting on the different transport modes that military cargo is taking, he explained, A lot of the time-sensitive cargo is prioritized and moved by air. The drawback is that air has a limited capability in terms of the quantity you can carry per frame and its expensive. Then youve also got cargo that is actually being supplied within the theater. There are depots in Europe that have been providing equipment by rail and truck right up to the border [with Ukraine]. And in the U.S., youve got the major rail lines all involved in moving cargo from the forts and depots to the ports of load, and youve got the truckers involved as well. Where we play the biggest part is in large-scale unit moves. Theres really no other option for an armored brigade combat team other than a ro-ro vessel, and the nice thing is that once the cargo is in place, its sealed inside the ship so its not getting battered by the weather en route. While the war has led to a swell in cargo, there is not a shortage of vessel capacity in the Atlantic. In terms of overall capability of commercial capacity and military capacity, there is enough sealift right now to support the requirements of the [NATO] exercise and the cargo to the Ukraine, said Heibel. Specialized vessels for transport of heavy machinery Transporting tanks to Europe is a very different proposition than shipping automobiles. It requires a different breed of vessel and involves different loading and unloading challenges. ARCs fleet currently comprises nine ro-ros, eight of which are U.S.-flag. All of the U.S.-flag ships participate in the MSP and the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement. Our vessels are not pure car and truck carriers [PCTCs], said Diorio. Theyre built for oversize equipment and large machinery. We specifically target ships to bring into our fleet that have high doors and heavy decks that we can use for military cargo. According to Heibel, Six out of our eight U.S.-flag ships have a door height in excess of 6.25 meters [20.5 feet]. The reason we look for ships with that door height is because thats the height you need to carry a CH-47 Chinook [helicopter] and a V-22 Osprey [aircraft] in sealift configuration. The CH-47, in particular, is part of every Army combat aviation brigade or armored cavalry or air cavalry unit. So, you have to have the ability to handle that kind of unit. Additionally, all of our ships have a ramp that has a strength of 230 tons or higher. The reason you need that ramp strength is because todays modern M1 [Abrams tank] weighs 72 tons and you need to have a deck with a ramp strength thats strong enough to carry two M1s, because if you dont have specialized equipment at a terminal, the only thing you can use to recover an M1 when its broken down is another M1, or an M88 [recovery vehicle], which is 60 tons. The bottom line is that you have to have decks with a certain strength thats higher than you need to carry sedans and SUVs and you have to have a deck height thats higher than you need to carry standard construction equipment and sedans and SUVs. So, these are special ships. Loading much more difficult than commercial operations In a typical automobile shipping operation, port workers (stevedores) handle the loading and unloading. Port stevedores are used in military loading as well, but there is a complication with loading specialized military equipment like tanks. There are two ways to support loading of specialized military equipment equipment that requires specialized training to drive which is primarily tracked vehicles like M1s, M2s and M88s. In most cases what happens is that those specialized drivers are from whats called a port support activity, which is a group of soldiers capable of driving this specialized equipment, said Heibel. In addition, in certain ports, such as Bremerhaven, we have a contract with a stevedore [company] that has gone out and gotten a specialized license for a small number of stevedores to unload tanks without the military being present, but thats the exception to the rule. BFVs line up for loading in Charleston. (Photo: TRANSCOM) Overall, he said, a military equipment loading operation is much more difficult than a commercial operation. There is yet another difference: Working for a company that supports military operations is not the same as working for one that handles shipments of Pelotons and flat-screen TVs. ARC employees are playing an integral role in supporting troops at a time when Russia is waging a war in Europe. Weve got a lot of veterans in this company and a lot of experience, said Heibel. Theres a huge sense of pride that were helping service members deploy to areas for exercises and operations. Were taking some of the pressure off so they can focus on what they need to do once theyre in the theater. Click for more articles by Greg Miller Related articles: The post How US military equipment for Ukraine is shipped across Atlantic appeared first on FreightWaves. Long-established in the Oil & Gas industry, USA Compression Partners LP (NYSE:USAC) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. It has recently witnessed a daily gain of 11.53%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of 36.64%. However, fresh insights from the GF Score 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 USA Compression Partners LP. USA Compression Partners LP (USAC): 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 USA Compression Partners LP the GF Score of 67 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential. USA Compression Partners LP: A Snapshot USA Compression Partners LP, with a market cap of $2.48 billion, provides compression services in the United States in terms of total compression fleet horsepower to customers relating to infrastructure applications. These applications include both allowing for the processing and transportation of natural gas through the domestic pipeline system and enhancing crude oil production through artificial lift processes. The company operates in several shale plays throughout the U.S., including the Utica, Marcellus, Permian Basin, Delaware Basin, Eagle Ford, and others. With sales of $773.77 million and an operating margin of 26.8%, the company engineers, designs, operates, services, and repairs its compression units, and maintains related support inventory and equipment. Story continues USA Compression Partners LP (USAC): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential Financial Strength Analysis USA Compression Partners LP's financial strength indicators present some concerning insights about the company's balance sheet health. The company's interest coverage ratio of 1.34 positions it worse than 90.1% of 768 companies in the Oil & Gas 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 1.1, 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 indicates a struggle in handling existing debt levels. The company's debt-to-equity ratio is 8.28, which is worse than 98.07% of 829 companies in the Oil & Gas industry. A high debt-to-equity ratio suggests over-reliance on borrowing and vulnerability to market fluctuations. Additionally, the company's debt-to-Ebitda ratio is 4.98, which is above Joel Tillinghast's warning level of 4 and is worse than 80.79% of 713 companies in the Oil & Gas 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 USA Compression Partners LP seems to falter, as evidenced by the company's low Growth rank. The company's revenue has declined by -0.1 per year over the past three years, which underperforms worse than 70.19% of 862 companies in the Oil & Gas industry. Stagnating revenues may pose concerns in a fast-evolving market. Lastly, USA Compression Partners LP predictability rank is just one star out of five, adding to investor uncertainty regarding revenue and earnings consistency. USA Compression Partners LP (USAC): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential Conclusion Given the company's financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GF Score highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential underperformance. While USA Compression Partners LP has a commendable history in the Oil & Gas industry, its current financial health and growth prospects may not support sustained outperformance. Therefore, investors should exercise caution and conduct thorough research before making investment decisions. GuruFocus Premium members can find more companies with strong GF Scores using the following screener link: GF Score Screen This article first appeared on GuruFocus. What are the early trends we should look for to identify a stock that could multiply in value over the long term? Ideally, a business will show two trends; firstly a growing return on capital employed (ROCE) and secondly, an increasing amount of capital employed. Ultimately, this demonstrates that it's a business that is reinvesting profits at increasing rates of return. Having said that, from a first glance at ARB (ASX:ARB) we aren't jumping out of our chairs at how returns are trending, but let's have a deeper look. Understanding Return On Capital Employed (ROCE) For those who don't know, ROCE is a measure of a company's yearly pre-tax profit (its return), relative to the capital employed in the business. To calculate this metric for ARB, this is the formula: Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) (Total Assets - Current Liabilities) 0.19 = AU$123m (AU$725m - AU$86m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to June 2023). Thus, ARB has an ROCE of 19%. On its own, that's a standard return, however it's much better than the 11% generated by the Auto Components industry. Check out our latest analysis for ARB roce In the above chart we have measured ARB's prior ROCE against its prior performance, but the future is arguably more important. If you'd like to see what analysts are forecasting going forward, you should check out our free report for ARB. What The Trend Of ROCE Can Tell Us In terms of ARB's historical ROCE movements, the trend isn't fantastic. Over the last five years, returns on capital have decreased to 19% from 24% five years ago. On the other hand, the company has been employing more capital without a corresponding improvement in sales in the last year, which could suggest these investments are longer term plays. It's worth keeping an eye on the company's earnings from here on to see if these investments do end up contributing to the bottom line. Story continues The Key Takeaway In summary, ARB is reinvesting funds back into the business for growth but unfortunately it looks like sales haven't increased much just yet. Although the market must be expecting these trends to improve because the stock has gained 84% over the last five years. Ultimately, if the underlying trends persist, we wouldn't hold our breath on it being a multi-bagger going forward. While ARB doesn't shine too bright in this respect, it's still worth seeing if the company is trading at attractive prices. You can find that out with our FREE intrinsic value estimation on our platform. While ARB 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. Washington H. Soul Pattinson (ASX:SOL) Full Year 2023 Results Key Financial Results Revenue: AU$1.21b (down 56% from FY 2022). Net income: AU$699.9m (up from AU$76.9m loss in FY 2022). Profit margin: 58% (up from net loss in FY 2022). The move to profitability was driven by lower expenses. EPS: AU$2.19 (up from AU$0.26 loss in FY 2022). All figures shown in the chart above are for the trailing 12 month (TTM) period Washington H. Soul Pattinson EPS Beats Expectations, Revenues Fall Short Revenue missed analyst estimates by 65%. Earnings per share (EPS) exceeded analyst estimates by 48%. Looking ahead, revenue is expected to fall by 2.1% p.a. on average during the next 3 years compared to a 6.9% decline forecast for the Diversified Financial industry in Australia. Performance of the Australian Diversified Financial industry. The company's shares are down 7.2% from a week ago. Risk Analysis Before we wrap up, we've discovered 1 warning sign for Washington H. Soul Pattinson that you should be aware of. 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. Protesters march while chanting different phrases during a United Auto Workers rally Wednesday at the Stellantis plant in Milwaukee. While the nation has its eyes on United Auto Workers striking in Michigan, about 100 Stellantis workers in Milwaukee are also fighting for their jobs. At a rally on Wednesday, members of UAW Local 75 picketed outside of the Stellantis Mopar plant in Bay View with the support of other unions and elected officials. The workers have been on strike since Friday. Joseph Neu, president of UAW Local 75, said the company wants to relocate the plant to Belvidere, Illinois. The COO wants to make global warehousing. Take this facility and the Chicago facility and put it into one, Neu said. Were fighting that. ... Weve been here over 100 years, we make millions (of dollars) here, a month, for this company. Protesters express their frustrations during a United Auto Workers rally Wednesday at the Stellantis plant in Milwaukee. While the national UAW negotiates with Ford Motor Company, General Motors and Jeep maker Stellantis for wages and benefits, Neu said hes focused on getting more investment for the facility in Milwaukee and job security. My fight now is what are they going to do with this plant, Neu said. When I get back in there for open negotiations, Ill make demands that we get some kind of language to stay here. Neu was appreciative of the elected officials that showed their support at the rally, but he encouraged them to stay engaged in their fight. Dont wait until something goes late when the ink is drying on a closure then step in, Neu said. Its sad what happened to Master Lock. ... You cant wait around. You have to go after them first. In March, Fortune Brands, the parent company of Master Lock, announced it was closing the 103-year-old facility on the northside of Milwaukee laying off more than 300 workers by March 2024. 'We're the ones doing the jobs' Among the union's demands for the next contracts with the automakers are a 40% increase in pay over the course of the contracts and a four-day work week. LaShonda Brown is a parts picker for Stellantis and has worked at the facility in Milwaukee for 15 years. Weve been worrying about it, Brown said of the facility closing. Thinking about uprooting your family, thinking about what are you going to do with your homes and things like that if we have to move. Story continues When Brown first got the job at Stellantis she said it changed her life tremendously. Semitrailers sit empty Wednesday at the Stellantis plant in Milwaukee amid a worker strike. It gave me better health care for my children and myself, extra money to take vacations and do things like that, Brown said. If she had a moment with the bosses, Brown said she would remind them of what exactly the workers do for the company. Were the ones doing the jobs, were the reason why the parts are getting out to the customers, were the reason why the cars are being made, Brown said. Theyre sitting behind a desk all day. Were the ones doing all of the manual work to make sure that the customer is satisfied at the end of the day. On Tuesday in Michigan, President Joe Biden became the first sitting president in the modern era to join with picketers. Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley speaks to the crowd during a United Auto Workers rally Wednesday at the Stellantis plant in Milwaukee. Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley said more elected officials need to show their support to workers who could be impacted by the strike. I think its great that were finally shining a light on what unions have actually done for this country and how we need to continue to support them, Crowley said. Politicians from all around need to be making sure that we are supporting workers on the front lines every single day because theyre the ones doing the work providing for our community. Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson offers his support during a United Auto Workers rally Wednesday at the Stellantis plant in Milwaukee. Mayor Cavalier Johnson encouraged Stellantis officials to meet with their striking workers. They should have conversations with the people that are out here, who are voicing their concerns over pay and other things, Johnson said. I want these jobs to stay here. I want these folks to be paid a decent wage because, again, when that happens it presents an opportunity to have stability in their lives, stability in their familys lives, which creates stability in our neighborhoods and that means a safer city for everybody. Our subscribers make this reporting possible. Please consider supporting local journalism by subscribing to the Journal Sentinel at jsonline.com/deal. DOWNLOAD THE APP: Get the latest news, sports and more This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee UAW workers fight for their jobs, supporting national effort Toledo resident Robert Springer, a 10-year employee at the Stellantis Toledo Assembly Complex, holds up a United Auto Workers sign during the first day of a labor strike against Ford Motor Co., General Motors and Stellantis. Nearly 1,800 Sharonville Ford workers are prepared to strike on Friday if the United Auto Workers union tells them to join more than three dozen picketing plants and facilities owned by Big Three automakers, local union officials said. UAW 863 is ready to strike if called upon, local president Tod Turner told The Enquirer, adding he did not know if they would join the national picket line on Friday which expanded last week to include more than 100 General Motors workers at a West Chester distribution facility. Ford's Sharonville transmission plant makes 6R140 and 10R80 finished transmissions and gears for Ford trucks, SUVs and cars. Officials with Ford did not respond to a request for comment. UAW President Shawn Fain is expected to announce additional facilities that will go on strike on at 10 a.m. Friday on Facebook. Those workers would strike at noon that day if there is not substantial progress in ongoing contract negotiations, sources told The Detroit Free Press. Thats how the strike widened by 38 facilities last week. A worker prepares to move an assembled 6R140 heavy-duty transmission off the line for shipping at Ford Motor Co.'s Sharonville transmission plant. Last week, 123 workers at General Motors Cincinnati Parts Distribution Center in West Chester were among were among 5,500 UAW members that walked off the job at dozens GM and Stellantis distribution sites across the nation. Ford facilities were spared last week as Fain cited progress in contract negotiations with the automaker. Three plants were the first wave of strikes called two weeks ago: Ford Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne; Stellantis Toledo Assembly Complex in Ohio; and General Motors Wentzville Assembly in Missouri. Experts have said a strike would likely cause major disruptions for auto production in the United States and could raise prices for new and used cars due to a lack of inventory. The strike has figured into presidential politics with President Joe Biden joining a Michigan picket line on Tuesday. Former President Donald Trump also visited Detroit amid the labor standoff. Story continues For the latest on Cincinnati business, P&G, Kroger and Fifth Third Bank, follow @alexcoolidge on Twitter. A Ford logo on the tailgate of a F350 Super Duty pick-up truck. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Ford workers in Sharonville 'ready' as UAW strikes set to widen Central Floridas 1-4 dioxane contamination has caught the attention of Yale University researchers. They want to hear concerns from residents who have been drinking water supplied by public utilities in Lake Mary, Sanford and northwest Seminole County. Groundwater in these areas has been contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, an industrial solvent classified as a likely carcinogen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The discussion will take place via a Zoom video chat on Oct. 4 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern time. Those who want to attend can email Barbara.masi@yale.edu to obtain a link. The hope is that public input will shape future projects from the Yale Superfund Research Center, established in 2022 to investigate the little-researched impacts of 1,4-dioxane and devise solutions. The centers work is funded through 2027 with a $7.5 million federal grant from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. If theres significant interest from the community and enough willing participants, Central Florida could potentially become a site for a case study on this chemicals health impacts, said Vasilis Vasiliou, the centers director. Yale is currently in the process of recruiting several hundred people for one such study in Long Island, New York, which at one point had dioxane in 70% of its drinking wells. I want to find out: what are the concerns of the people and what do they want us, as the Department of Environmental Health Sciences, to do to address their concerns? said Vasiliou, who will lead Wednesdays meeting. Like many, Vasiliou became aware of Central Floridas situation when he was interviewed for the Orlando Sentinels "Toxic Secret" series. The four-part investigative series shed light on decades of 1,4-dioxane contamination in the Floridian Aquifer. The dioxane has been linked to a telephone systems factory in Lake Mary that was built in the late 1960s and closed in 2003. Sanford, Lake Mary and Seminole County first detected this industrial solvent in their drinking water in 2013 and 2014, though state investigators found evidence of local groundwater contamination as far back as 2001. Its unknown what 1,4-dioxane concentrations were during the decades before that. Story continues Known peak parts per billion a decade ago were 1.3 in Lake Mary, 0.41 in Sanford and 0.58 in Seminole County, all above the EPAs recommended limit of 0.35 parts per billion. Lake Marys drinking water contained multiple times this advisory level until a new treatment plant was installed in 2021. Sanford and Seminole adjusted flow rates to their groundwater wells eight years ago and data suggests they have kept 1,4-dioxane levels below 0.35 ppb since then. This concentration equates to an estimated 1-in-a-million increased risk of cancer if consumed for a lifetime. Florida has also chosen to issue an advisory level of 0.35 ppb, though the limit is not enforced by the federal or state government. Vasiliou has so far been in contact with about a dozen Central Florida residents about this issue, after his information was publicized at a forum hosted by the Orlando Sentinel at Seminole State Colleges Sanford/Lake Mary campus in August. Following this Zoom meeting, Vasiliou hopes to arrange a formal site visit to the region with his team. Efforts to assist the Seminole County, Lake Mary and Sanford area would be funded by a grant that promotes university-community partnerships from the National Institutes of Health. In order to apply for this grant and conduct a study, Vasiliou said he would need, at minimum, one person to agree to volunteer to represent the communitys concerns and collaborate with him. More information about the potential partnership will be made available at the meeting. Were looking for some of the community leaders to step up and work with us, he said. Sydney Evans, a senior science analyst at the Environmental Working Group, praised Yales engagement efforts. The EWG is a U.S. nonprofit that advocates for stricter regulation of toxic chemicals. The Yale Superfund Research Centers potential undertaking of tap water research in Central Florida indicates a commitment to understanding and mitigating the risks of 1,4-dioxane in drinking water, a contaminant for which protective action is long overdue. Its important to keep the affected communities at the forefront of the research so that the program empowers residents, builds trust, includes appropriate cultural sensitivity, and gives the community some level of ownership over the results, Evans said via email. Dioxane has been linked to liver, kidney, peritoneum, mammary and nasal cavity cancers in animal studies, though there has not been much research done in humans. This dearth of research is part of what inspired Vasiliou to start the effort that brings together researchers from the schools of Public Health, Medicine, Engineering & Applied Science, and the Environment. It is one of 25 university-based centers across the country funded by the federal government in an attempt to address contaminated U.S. land and groundwater, an effort known as the Superfund program. Yale scientists at the center aim to answer questions such as how the chemical triggers the development of cancer, how it may interact with other substances commonly found in the environment, and whether biomarkers can identify whether someone was previously exposed to dioxane. As of now, 1,4-dioxane is only detectable when its in the human body, and it leaves within a matter of days, which makes it difficult to link health issues to past exposures. Its possible that the research done at Yales superfund center may be used down the line to help inform a federal limit for 1,4-dioxane in drinking water, and other regulatory steps. Other goals of Yales center include developing easier and cheaper ways to detect and remove the chemical, which is notoriously difficult to separate from water. At the moment, at-home treatment systems such as reverse osmosis can remove most, but not all of the chemical from drinking water. However, they arent a practical option for many households because of their price several hundred to several thousand dollars for installation, plus the cost of upkeep and filter replacement. In addition, at-home treatment doesnt destroy the chemical, it separates it and sends it down the drain. This means it could potentially end up in the water supply again. One of the most dependable ways to actually destroy 1,4-dioxane is a process called advanced oxidation, which combines hydrogen peroxide with ultraviolet light. This process is highly effective but also prohibitively pricey. Lake Mary installed an advanced oxidation plant in 2021 that reduces the concentration of dioxane to a trace amount. The city estimates it cost about $40 million, though it was paid for by the telephone factorys former owners and the price was never directly disclosed to the city or the Orlando Sentinel. ------- (Martin Comas and Kevin Spear of the Sentinel staff contributed to this report) ------- Drivers in nearly every state are required to obtain minimum car insurance coverage, including those with past violations for driving under the influence (DUI), driving while intoxicated (DWI), or operating under the influence (OUI). But with these charges on your record, car insurance companies will generally view you as a higher risk to insure, which can mean unexpected policy cancellations and increased insurance rates. Despite this, youll still need coverage to meet your states insurance requirements. Heres what to know about car insurance after a DUI, how your rates will change, and tips for lowering your insurance costs. What happens after a DUI? If you're pulled over and arrested on suspicion of drunk driving, the arresting officer will probably confiscate your driver's license. You may receive a temporary license once you're released from custody, which you can use until you're arraigned in court. Whether you want to hire a lawyer for your court hearing depends on your individual preferences and driving history. For instance, it may be wise to hire a lawyer if you have a past DUI or to help you resolve the case on a reduced charge. If youre found guilty of driving under the influence, your license will likely be revoked for at least 90 days, though it could be longer depending on your states rules and if its your first offense. Your DUI conviction will also appear on your driving record, and your auto insurance company might drop your coverage. If not, expect a rate hike. How a DUI impacts your car insurance rates If your insurance company allows you to maintain your policy after a DUI or DWI conviction, you can expect a sharp increase in your auto insurance rates. A 2023 study from auto insurance comparison site QwoteWizard estimates that car insurance premiums increase by an average of $1,495 annually, or $124 monthly, after a DUI. The study is based on data from Quadrant Information Services, which collects rate and pricing data from insurance providers nationwide. But the amount your rate increases can vary by state. According to the QwoteWizard study, drivers in Hawaii, California, and North Carolina saw the biggest increases after a DUI. For instance, California drivers paid an average of $157 per month with a clean record and around $433 monthly after a DUI. If you have other infractions besides a DUI, such as an at-fault accident or speeding ticket, these will also result in higher car insurance costs. Depending on your state and driving history, your DUI may remain on your record for three to 10 years, while other infractions typically remain for up to five years or longer in states like Minnesota and Hawaii. While insurance companies often hike rates for a minimum of three years after a driving infraction, the amount of time your rates will remain high varies based on your insurer, driving record, and infraction youve committed. SR-22 and FR-44 requirements Certain states, such as California and Washington, will require that your insurer files an SR-22 form with the state to prove you consistently meet minimum coverage requirements after a DUI. In Virginia and Florida, youll need to file an FR-44 instead of an SR-22 if you have a DUI conviction. Some states, like New York, dont require you to file an SR-22 or FR-44, though you can still expect higher insurance rates for serious driving violations. Typically, an FR-44 or SR-22 filing will need to be in place for at least three years following a DUI conviction, though requirements vary by state. Once youve met your states requirements, you can request that your insurance company remove the form from your record. How to get coverage after a DUI Maintaining adequate insurance will be fairly simple though expensive if your insurance provider offers policies for drivers with past DUIs. You can request that your insurer file any required forms with your state. But expect your regular monthly car insurance premiums to increase due to the conviction. Things get a little more complicated if your insurer cancels your policy because of a DUI conviction. You'll need to find a provider willing to issue car insurance policies to high-risk drivers and youll need to do so quickly to avoid a lapse in coverage, which could result in even higher rates. It can be helpful to contact your state's department or bureau of motor vehicles for guidance on obtaining DUI car insurance. Remember that most states require at least a minimum amount of car insurance coverage, often including two types of liability insurance. Note that insurance requirements can vary by state. Bodily injury liability : Covers medical costs for individuals in other vehicles if youre at fault in a car accident. Property damage liability: Pays for repairs to damaged property if you're found responsible for an accident. If your car is leased or financed, your lender may require you to obtain more coverage. Here are some other coverage options. Comprehensive coverage : Pays for car repairs if your vehicle is damaged due to a covered event, such as severe weather, a fire, burglary, or another event outside your control. Collision coverage : Pays for car repairs if your vehicle is damaged in an accident with another car. Underinsured/uninsured motorist : Protects you if youre in a crash with another driver who doesnt have adequate car insurance coverage. Personal injury protection: Also called no-fault insurance, personal injury protection (PIP) covers your healthcare expenses if youre injured in an accident, no matter whos responsible. Tips for finding cheap car insurance for high-risk drivers Once you have a list of potential insurers that issue policies to high-risk drivers and you understand your insurance requirements and needs, its time to find coverage. While your cost of car insurance will be higher with a DUI, rates vary across companies. Here are some tips for finding relatively affordable coverage. 1. Use rate comparison tools Online insurance calculators and rate comparison tools let you view quotes from multiple insurance companies in one place. These tools can help save you time as you shop for a new policy as a high-risk driver. 2. Get multiple quotes If you prefer to seek out car insurance quotes on your own, you can also go that route. Many major insurers, including Progressive, State Farm, GEICO, Allstate, USAA, The General and Erie all write high-risk policies. You can start an application online or speak with insurance agents to obtain quotes and compare rates. 3. Seek out discounts Many insurers offer discounts, which may be accessible despite your DUI. For instance, bundling multiple policies like your homeowners and auto insurance with the same provider could help you save on your premiums. Other common ones include safe vehicle, good grades, low-mileage discounts and good driver discounts. How to minimize the long-term impact of a DUI on insurance rates A DUI conviction will generally stay on your driving record for five to 10 years, though the time frame depends on your state. But there are things you can do to reduce the time you must face rate increases. 1. Maintain a clean driving record Maintaining a squeaky-clean driving record is the best thing you can do to help reduce your rates over time. 2. Take a defensive driving course Many insurance companies offer safe driving discounts if you complete a defensive driving course. 3. Improve your credit score Your credit history is sometimes used as a factor in setting individual insurance rates. The lowest rates are often reserved for individuals with excellent credit or good credit because theyre deemed as less risky to insure. Note that some states prohibit the use of credit as a rating factor. 4. Shop around for new coverage If your DUI is a few years in the past, its possible a new insurer may offer you better rates. Shopping around every year is worth it to see if you can get cheaper car insurance. After about an hour of discussion, debate and heated comments from the public, the Fremont City Council on Tuesday, Sept. 26, voted 5-3 to approve a series of changes to the Keene Memorial Library policy manual. Among the most prominent changes was the creation of a new library card system that will Library Director Laura England-Biggs has said in several prior meetings allow parents more control over what content their children can check out. The new library card system will feature three different library cards: one for youth up to age 13; a second young adult card for patrons ages 14 to 18 and an adult card for library members age 19 and older. The card system will be opt-in, meaning parents or guardians would need to actively enroll their children in the different card classifications. Other changes in the fifth draft of the updated policies included removing all references and adherence to philosophies or policy recommendations from the American Library Association; changes to the contested materials and request for reconsideration or removal process and appeal timeline; and assorted tweaks in regard to reviewing, purchasing and displaying of materials by library staff. As has been the case in numerous meetings since city and library officials began to work on the policy tweaks in April, several members of the public who have been active in the book controversy spoke against the policies during Tuesdays meeting. Local father Scott Preston read a sexually explicit passage from the book Looking for Alaska, which he said is in the library. Preston who has supported the age-tiered library card system in past meetings also said the policies up for discussion on Tuesday needed to be halted and revised. It is disgusting and disgraceful and a slap in the face, Preston said. You need to vote no on this and send it back. Book activist Sandra Murray whose complaints at a December 2022 council meeting started the book controversy in the city told the council that in her opinion, the library still allows pornographic materials and that the city and library staff need to go back to the drawing board with the policy revisions. Brenda Ray told the council that Godly decency needed to be a focus of the public library, and also questioned how children were protected from inappropriate content by the new age-tiered library card system. My tax dollars support this library and I dont want to support pornography, Ray said. Fremont City Administrator Jody Sanders tried to ease concerns raised about the policies from members of the public as well as council members who were not happy with the new policies, stating the city is working hard to reach a compromise on the various issues that satisfies all sides. We our trying our very best to both support and respect the values of parents, Sanders said while noting that the city also has a duty to craft legally-vetted policies that help protect the city from potential lawsuits. Council President Mark Jensen continued his staunch support for the library as well as retaining what some in the community view as inappropriate material in the public library. (In a) public library, the content must cast a very wide net, Jensen said. I dont believe our children are not safe in the library. They are safe in our public library beyond safe. It is the exact same eight to 10 people pushing this (controversy). The policy tweaks will now be put into place after the councils approval following more than five months of theorizing and developing of ideas and changes by the library staff as well as the five-member Keene Memorial Library Advisory Board. Council members Paul Von Behren, Glen Ellis and Dev Sookram voted no on the policy revisions. Council members Jensen, Tad Dinkins, Sally Ganem, James Vaughan and Lori Lathrop all voted yes to put the policies into place. Ellis, who has been absent from council meetings for much of the summer due to a family health issue, was at Tuesdays meeting and expressed his desire to put the brakes on the proposed policies and keep tweaking them. This has been going on for 10 months. I am really disappointed in what weve come up with as a city. We need to get the right solution. Whether it takes another three months or a year, we need to get it right for the kids, Ellis said. It is mind-boggling weve gone so far and were still so divided. This has let the people of Fremont down. Von Behren, who has been the most actively involved council member in the policy revisions, said in his belief, the legal counsel review of the fourth draft of the policy proposals that in turn created the fifth draft that the council voted on Tuesday had weakened earlier proposals from August. I understand this is complicated and convoluted. Over the last few months, weve all be shocked by what weve (discovered), Von Behren said while urging the council to delay approving the proposed policy changes. We have community standards for everything we do, he said, referring to city ordinances and laws. The library is that one entity in this city that doesnt have standards set by the community. Ward 3 Council Member James Vaughan spoke on the issue, explaining that he believes the issue of controversial library books is the creation of certain political people. Why is this all the sudden the big hot button issue? There is a nationwide push, Vaughan said while placing the blame for the controversy on a vocal minority. The library has made a good faith effort, Vaughan added. This is a new push from certain political people. Ganem stressed during Tuesdays meeting that the library needed a working set of policies in order to move ahead with changes notably an age-tiered opt-in series of library cards to allow parents more control. On Wednesday she spoke to the Tribune, explaining that the policies OKd on Tuesday are open to future debate, discussion, ideas and possible revisions. This is an emotionally charged issue. Both sides are not satisfied. It is unfortunate that we are so divided as a country, Ganem said during a Wednesday interview with the Tribune. The library gets caught in the middle. And, they cant do the (book) ordering or act on anything like the library cards until the policy was passed. The Nebraska State Patrol and Nebraska National Guard have announced a partnership that will help soldiers completing their military service continue to serve the public as Nebraska State Troopers. On Thursday, Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol, and Brigadier General Craig Strong, Adjutant General of the Nebraska National Guard, signed a memorandum of participation in the U.S. Army PaYS (Partnership for Your Success) program. Service is at the heart of both military service and law enforcement. Were proud to have numerous military veterans serving today as troopers, Bolduc said. This agreement will help us recruit the next generation of troopers as we connect with soldiers looking for a career of making a difference in communities across Nebraska. The PaYS program helps current soldiers of the U.S. Army, including the Army National Guard and Army Reserve, prepare for a career following their military service. This partnership will allow the State Patrol to work alongside U.S. Army recruiters to make connections with soldiers who desire to continue serving the public after they complete their service in the Army. It just seems like a natural fit. Theres always been partnership between the State Patrol and National Guard, but this takes our partnership to a new level, Strong said. Whats great about this program is its giving our service members an opportunity to get interviewed, guaranteeing that an actual human being will review their application and give them a shot. Thursdays signing ceremony featured a joint Color Guard consisting of troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol Honor Guard and cadets from the University of Nebraska Army ROTC Color Guard. Several troopers were also recognized for their simultaneous service as members of the Nebraska National Guard. To connect with a Nebraska State Patrol recruiter, visit NebraskaTroopers.com. To connect with a Nebraska National Guard recruiter, visit NationalGuard.com. A federal judge on Monday granted the request of two Colorado residents to block a new Colorado law generally raising the age limit for purchasing firearms to 21. At the same time, in a separate lawsuit, U.S. District Court Chief Judge Philip A. Brimmer declined to bar enforcement of another recently-enacted law establishing a three-day waiting period for gun purchases. Rocky Mountain Gun Owners challenged the constitutionality of Senate Bill 169, which took effect on Aug. 7 and created a misdemeanor offense for federally licensed firearms dealers to sell guns to people younger than 21. Similarly, it became a misdemeanor for someone under 21 to purchase a gun. The law created exceptions for police officers or those in the military. In addition to the gun-rights group, two Colorado residents who were between the ages of 18 and 21, Tate Mosgrove and Adrian S. Pineda, also joined the litigation. Brimmer agreed the plaintiffs had shown a likelihood that they would prevail on their underlying claims and decided to bar the state from enforcing SB 169 while the case unfolds. "The court agrees with the individual plaintiffs that the Second Amendment includes the right to acquire firearms and, therefore, protects the individual plaintiffs proposed conduct," Brimmer wrote in an order granting the preliminary injunction. Rocky Mountain Gun Owners has regularly sought to strike down gun safety laws following the U.S. Supreme Court's 2022 decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen. The court's conservative majority laid down a new legal framework for analyzing the constitutionality of gun regulations broadly, scrapping the government's ability to illustrate how a limitation on Second Amendment rights would advance a compelling public safety goal. Instead, Bruen requires the government to show a restriction is "consistent with this Nations historical tradition of firearm regulation." Consequently, in contrast with other types of constitutional rights cases, the arguments over the legality of SB 169 unleashed dueling interpretations of history from the Founding Era through Reconstruction. The plaintiffs argued the Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms also encompassed the right to "acquire arms." At the Founding period, men under 21 routinely handled guns in their militia service, so a ban would have been incomprehensible. "George Washingtons Continental Army consisted of thousands of young men under twenty-one and they regularly used firearms," wrote attorney Barry K. Arrington. "Young males were commonly required to possess firearms as part of their militia service." 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. That was only half of the story, the state countered. At the time, 18-to-20-year-olds were still considered "infants" who lacked full legal rights. Colorado produced lengthy statements from multiple academics who attested that there was no unconditional right to firearms for young men, and restrictions did exist. "Rather, access to, and the ability to keep or bear, weapons occurred in supervised situations where minors were under the direction of those who enjoyed legal authority over them: fathers, guardians, constables, justices of the peace, or militia officers," wrote Saul Cornell, a history professor at Fordham University. Contemporary court decisions also revealed a split on the age question. The plaintiffs pointed to a federal judge's recent ruling in Virginia that struck down an age restriction similar to Colorado's on the grounds there was insufficient evidence such policies were part of the country's historical tradition. Colorado responded with a Tennessee Supreme Court ruling from 1878 that endorsed an age restriction for 18-to-20-year-olds as "wise and salutary." And both sides directed Brimmer to the Atlanta-based U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit for opposite reasons. This year, a three-judge panel upheld Florida's 21-year-old age limit on firearm purchases, only to have the entire court vacate the decision last month, pending a rehearing. Brimmer, an appointee of George W. Bush, noted Rocky Mountain Gun Owners itself had not established how it or its members would suffer injury from SB 169. Therefore, only Mosgrove and Pineda could seek an injunction as prospective gun purchasers. Brimmer agreed the Second Amendment covers 18-to-20-year-olds and it protected Mosgrove and Pineda's right to obtain guns for self-defense. Therefore, Colorado had to justify SB 169 with historical tradition. Based on the government's cited regulations, many of which were dissimilar to SB 169 or came long after the Founding, Brimmer concluded Colorado had not met its burden. Colorado "fails to point to any evidence during the founding era that a total prohibition on the sale of firearms to minors was consistent with the right to bear arms," Brimmer wrote. "Since the day this legislation was introduced, we knew it was unconstitutional," said Taylor Rhodes, executive director of Rocky Mountain Gun Owners, in a statement. Brimmer's preliminary injunction bars enforcement of SB 169 until he can render a final decision in the case. Since the Bruen ruling, lawsuits against gun safety laws have produced mixed results. While local bans on "assault weapons" in Boulder County are on hold, judges have also upheld laws criminalizing gun possession in certain circumstances. Separately, Brimmer is handling another lawsuit from Rocky Mountain Gun Owners to strike down House Bill 1219, which established a three-day waiting period for gun purchases from firearm dealers. Also on Aug. 7, he issued an order rejecting a preliminary injunction against the law. Neither Rocky Mountain Gun Owners nor the individual plaintiff, Alicia Garcia, demonstrated an imminent injury from the policy. The case is Rocky Mountain Gun Owners et al. v. Polis. Authorities have arrested a Pueblo West man accused of shooting and wounding a juvenile who was riding an all-terrain vehicle in a field. John Kosovich, 63, is being held on suspicion of second-degree assault and felony menacing at the Pueblo County jail, where he was booked following his arrest on Monday, according to the Pueblo County Sheriff's Office. The victim was shot in the chest on June 18 near Platteville Boulevard and Littleton Drive in Pueblo West and is still recovering after being treated in Denver, according to the Sheriff's Office. As crews continue dismantling the now shuttered Martin Drake Power Plant downtown, Colorado Springs Utilities plans to pay off the multimillion-dollar demolition cost over the next decade and avoid possible short-term rate increases to cover the expense. The Colorado Springs Utilities Board of Directors indicated their support Wednesday of a request to establish a regulatory asset and pay the estimated $17.9 million demolition cost over 10 years, beginning in 2023. The request requires approval from the City Council, whose members also act as the utilities board. The council is expected to consider the request on the consent agenda at its Oct. 24 regular meeting. Items on the consent agenda are considered as a whole and passed by the council with one vote. "This allows us to spread the costs of the decommissioning over a 10-year period, and we can fit it into our budget without any rate increase to us," Natalie Lovell, the utility's accounting manager, told the board Wednesday. If the regulatory asset is not established, the utilities department would have to pay back all the expenses associated with the nearly 100-year-old plant's decommissioning in one year, she said. That would possibly require short-term electric rate increases between 1.5% to 2%, she said. 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. A sample amortization schedule included in meeting documents shows the utility plans to pay about $1.59 million in 2023, including contractor and obsolete inventory costs, and about $1.79 million a year from 2024 through 2032. The final $200,000 will be paid in 2033, the schedule shows. The utility has used regulatory assets in the past to help spread out the cost of other projects, such as the Southern Delivery System in 2009, a water pipeline from Pueblo Reservoir to Colorado Springs. After ending coal-burning operations in August 2021, Drake operated two natural gas generators at times of high demand for electricity in the community. Utilities formally shut down power production at the plant last September. In April, Colorado Springs Utilities announced six new natural gas generating units now stand where coal once piled up near the closed plant, helping fill peak energy demand on the community's hottest and coldest days. The plant was expected to run on coal through 2035, but in June 2020 the Utilities board pushed the date up to shutter the plant by 2023. Now that Suzanne Morphews remains have been located, the three-plus-year-old case takes on a new life and perhaps even starts over with a new team of investigators joining the original group. Previously, investigators from the Chaffee County Sheriffs office, the 11th Judicial District Attorneys office, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation and the FBI have combed the case from the beginning to present. Morphew's remains were found scattered in a dry, high-desert field south of the town of Moffat on Sept. 22. The remains are currently at the El Paso County Coroners Office, where an autopsy is being performed, according to Saguache County Coroner Tom Perrin. The discovery of her remains in Saguache, a bordering county to where she was originally thought to be located, brings in a new law enforcement body namely the Saguache County Sheriff's Office. Morphew went missing on Mother's Day, May 10, 2020. Her husband, Barry Morphew, was the last known person to see her alive, an arrest document stated. Her last known "proof-of-life" photo was a selfie she sent on May 9 at around 2 p.m. to her lover, with whom she was texting. She and Jeff Libler, a high school friend, had reconnected, it was revealed in the preliminary hearing. He lived in Michigan and produced receipts and cellphone evidence from that weekend, which showed investigators that he was not in Colorado when Suzanne disappeared, testimony from the evidentiary hearing showed. It will become a joint effort between every investigative agency, which has any interest in the case, Saguache County Sheriff Dan Warwick told The Denver Gazette Thursday. I dont know that this is starting over, but I can say that we are getting fresh eyes on the case. The lead FBI investigator who wrote the 130-page arrest affidavit has retired and now works for Douglas County Schools as director of safety and security. Jonny Grusing, a cracker-jack detective, has been an integral force in investigating numerous Colorado murder cases. That includes the case of Dylan Redwine, whose bones were also found after years of going missing. Grusing has continued to advise on the case, sources close to the investigation have told The Denver Gazette. Morphew charged and then freed Barry Morphew was charged with first-degree murder almost a year to the day of when his wife went missing, but the prosecution asked the judge to dismiss the case on the eve of trial in April 2022 because they felt they were close to finding her body. "She is in a very difficult spot. We actually have more than just a feeling and the sheriffs office is continuing to look for Mrs. Morphews body, Deputy District Attorney Mark Hurlbert said at the time. Morphew walked out of a Fremont County courthouse a free man, flanked by his two daughters, Mallory and Macy, who stood by him throughout the pre-trial hearings in the case in which he was accused of killing their mother. Sign up for free: Springs AM Update Your morning rundown of the latest news from Colorado Springs and around the country overnight and the stories to follow throughout the day delivered to your inbox each evening. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. The family is in shock, said Morphews attorney, Iris Eytan. She said that as Suzannes next of kin, Barry Morphew was notified by the coroner that his wifes remains had been found and that he was so stunned, he could not recall the conversation. Suzanne's family is also reeling from the finality of the news. In a statement, her nephew Chris Moorman wrote that while his family is "grateful to all those who searched for Auntie Suzanne the past 3 years, there is no possible way to call yesterday's discovery good news." He went on to describe Mrs. Morphew as a warm and loving person and asked for people to "Please pray for her daughters and that justice, however long delayed, comes for the monster who committed this heinous crime. The field where Morphews remains were found was 30 to 40 miles from the Morphew family home, where she was last seen on May 10, 2020. Morphew told police that he drove off that morning for a landscaping job in Broomfield at 5 a.m. and that the last time he saw his wife, she was sleeping soundly, according to the preliminary hearing. New discovery, new questions Investigator must now look at whether Morphew could have had time to kill Suzanne, drive the 40 minutes to a field on the east side of Saguache, bury her in a shallow grave, and retrace his journey on Highway 285 north to Broomfield for his landscaping job. Eytan and other sources close to the investigation confirmed that GPS from Morphews truck and tracking evidence from his cellphone show that he was not in Saguache on May 9 or 10 the weekend Morphew went missing. The discovery of her remains brings up a few key questions: Was Morphew kidnapped? Was she murdered? If so, how did she die? What happened during her final hours? If she was murdered, where was she killed? That location could determine which jurisdiction prosecutes the unsolved case. Was there more than one person involved in her disappearance? Will the old guard, which has been investigating the case for more than three years, be able to put egos aside and play nicely with new agencies, specifically the Saguache County Sheriffs Office, which will now likely be brought in to piece her last hours together? These next days will be filled with meetings between investigators regarding the case, according to Warwick. He admitted that his department, with eight to nine employees, is tremendously smaller than Chaffee County's, which has been in charge of the investigation into Morphews death from the beginning and took it over again when the case was dismissed in April 2022. But that doesnt sway him. I dont give a damn what it takes. Ill make it happen. Whatever it takes well make it work and the commissioners will pay the bill, he said. In the latest wildlife rescue news to come out of Colorado, an elk in the area of Estes Park was rescued after getting some cable wrapped around its antlers. A post made to X, the social media platform formally known as Twitter, by user @SethPowell_ included a video that captured the scene as authorities from Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the Estes Park Police Department untangled the cable from the animal's massive rack. In order to safely do so, the animal was tranquilized first, with the cable untangled while the animal was motionless on the ground. Following the incident, Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminded the public to make sure their yard is free of potential tangle entrapments. This includes netting, anything with ropes attached, or anything that may have a hole that part of an animal could get stuck in. Watch the video of the rescue below: Aurora City Councilwoman Danielle Jurinsky speaks during a news conference in August 2022 about her lawsuits allegations of fraud by Arapahoe Countys child protective services. (Gazette file photo) Sunaina Kumar-Giebel is the director of the VA Rocky Mountain Network (Veterans Integrated Service Network 19). Michael Kilmer is the executive director of the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System. Colorado's second-highest court on Thursday agreed Denver Public Schools board member Auon'tai M. Anderson may pursue defamation claims against two women who posted unsubstantiated allegations online that he committed sexual assault. Anderson, who is vice president of DPS' board of education, originally filed suit against Black Lives Matter 5280 and three individuals who played a role in disseminating unproven allegations of Anderson's misconduct. Specifically, the defendants made a series of inflammatory statements suggesting Anderson sexually assaulted multiple women and victimized more than 60 high school students. An independent investigation DPS commissioned in 2021 found Anderson did appear to make unwelcome or inappropriate sexual comments, but could not substantiate the assault claims. Based in part on the investigation's findings and the statements of the defendants, a three-judge panel for the Court of Appeals concluded Anderson had viable defamation claims against two people who accused him of criminal conduct: Jeeva Senthilnathan and Mary Katherine Brooks-Fleming. Anderson was elected to the board as an at-large member in 2019. He is not seeking reelection this year, and is instead campaigning to succeed term-limited Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver, in the legislature. The defamation claims triggered scrutiny under Colorado's relatively new "anti-SLAPP" law, which stands for "strategic lawsuits against public participation." The same year as Anderson's election, the legislature enacted the law to provide a mechanism to quickly dispose of litigation that implicates a person's First Amendment rights specifically, the rights to free speech and to petition the government. To date, the Court of Appeals has sided with dissatisfied customers sued over their negative online reviews of businesses, a woman who spoke out about domestic violence on social media and a Planned Parenthood executive who criticized a series of misleading videos about fetal tissue donation. Case: Anderson v. Senthilnathan Decided: September 28, 2023 Jurisdiction: Denver Ruling: 3-0 Judges: Katharine E. Lum (author) Jerry N. Jones Steve Bernard Background: Analysis: The investigation on Tay Anderson sexual misconduct allegations In early 2021, Black Lives Matter 5280 posted a statement on its social media pages describing an unnamed woman who came forward alleging Anderson "is the perpetrator of her sexual assault." "Bear in mind that although these allegations have not gone through a formal legal process, BLM 5280 is fiercely committed to protecting, uplifting, and believing Black women, decidedly as it relates to sexual violence," the statement continued. The DPS board quickly hired an independent investigation firm to look at the allegations. Within weeks, however, Brooks-Fleming went before the legislature to testify about a bill to aid survivors of child sexual abuse. Without naming Anderson, Brooks-Fleming alleged 62 students "reported directly to me" about a "sexual predator currently targeting DPS students." She added that she personally spoke with the victims, who had experienced "unwanted touching" and "violent acts of rape" from the alleged perpetrator. Finally, after the release of the investigation's findings, Senthilanthan, a political activist and former candidate for Parker Town Council, posted a statement of her own alleging there are "more victims" of Anderson's and "he has sexually assaulted many women." After Anderson filed suit, the defendants moved to dismiss under the anti-SLAPP law. Denver District Court Judge David H. Goldberg largely sided with them. 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. As for BLM 5280 and one of its board members, Amy Brown, Goldberg found their act of conveying the alleged victim's accusations did not support a defamation claim. He also observed that Brooks-Fleming's statements to the legislature, and a subsequent online post where she doubled down on her allegations, came before the investigation's conclusion. Consequently, Anderson had not shown Brooks-Fleming had grounds to believe she was speaking falsely at the time. Goldberg did, however, find Anderson could proceed against Senthilnathan for her online post. "Senthilnathan acknowledges that the sexual assault allegations against plaintiff were unsubstantiated but she proceeds to state that plaintiff sexually assaulted women," he noted. On appeal, Anderson argued the anti-SLAPP law should not be used as a "how-to-guide on engineering the most fantastical and salacious of claims" without accountability. The defendants regarded Anderson as a "political rival or enemy" and intentionally lied to destroy his name, wrote attorney Issa Israel. The appellate panel endorsed much, but not all, of Goldberg's reasoning. It agreed the BLM 5280 statement was not asserting as a fact that Anderson assaulted his unnamed accuser. "That statement faithfully uses the words 'alleged' or 'allegedly' to describe the reporting party and her allegations," wrote Judge Katharine E. Lum in the Sept. 28 opinion. The panel also agreed Brooks-Fleming could not be held liable for her testimony to the legislature. But her subsequent statement online, in which she doubled down on her allegations, could support a defamation claim. Lum noted the investigation found Brooks-Fleming to not be credible, and there was reason to doubt her allegations at the time of her testimony. In reinstating Anderson's claim against Brooks-Fleming, the panel found Goldberg correctly denied Senthilnathan's motion to dismiss as well. While Senthilnathan stated factually that Anderson had committed assaults, "there isn't any evidence in the record suggesting that she actually received reports of sexual assault or that the assaults in fact took place," Lum noted. An attorney for Brown and BLM 5280 declined to comment. Senthilnathan could not be reached. Anderson's lawyer did not immediately provide a reaction to the appellate ruling. The case is Anderson v. Senthilnathan et al. Denver Gazette reporter Nicole C. Brambila contributed to this story. Crews this summer inched closer in a years-long effort to build a new trail to the top of Pikes Peak. For a fifth season, Colorado Springs nonprofit Rocky Mountain Field Institute (RMFI) led Rocky Mountain Youth Corps cadres in building a Devils Playground trail to replace the existing summiting path, long seen as eroded, unsafe and damaging to the environment. The U.S. Forest Service blueprint calls for a new trail spanning about 4 miles, trending south of the current alignment on the backside of the 14,115-foot mountain. Four years after the project launched, about 2 miles of trail have been cut. Early coordinators envisioned potentially a mile of new trail each year. RMFI's Carl Woody has overseen progress since 2020. "Back when the concept for this project was being put together, I think it was always hard to look into the future and predict exactly what was gonna happen," he said in a previous interview. Certainly unforeseen was a pandemic that would stop and slow work and alter RMFI's staffing expectations. "This year, we started off with a slow pace of getting everybody in the door and trained, and we just kind of kept hiring all year," said RMFI Executive Director Jolie NeSmith. "We're like restaurants and everybody else. Hopefully next year we're kind of closer in that direction of pre-COVID." 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 summer saw about a quarter-mile of new trail carved by hand, she said. The focus, she said, was along a section that saw the addition of several erosion-mitigating structures, including 81 steps of rock and timber and 35 retaining walls. "Increasing the sustainability and durability of that trail in the long run," NeSmith said. "That's huge work and very time-consuming." The task won't get easier in the coming years with about 1 miles of trail left to build. Next summer, crews are expected to start construction above treeline, moving heavy rocks and boulders as needed. "Tedious isn't the right word," NeSmith said. "Back-breaking is the right word." As September ended, she was busy preparing a grant request to Colorado Parks and Wildlife for three years of funding help through the agency's annual Non-motorized Trail Program. While awarded the first three years of building, the Devils Playground project has been without any grant the past two years. That funding is "huge" for the job going forward, NeSmith said. "Part of it is, people know we're working on the trail, so people are starting to use it," she said. "We're at that point where I think we realize we can't just halfway do this project." A landmark marijuana banking bill long championed by former U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter and Colorado Gov. Jared Polis cleared a major hurdle on Wednesday in Washington, when the legislation passed a Senate committee for the first time. Dubbed the SAFER Banking Act, the Secure and Fair Enforcement Regulation Banking Act would let legal cannabis businesses access the federally regulated banking system. The bill won bipartisan approval in the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs and heads to the Senate floor before an expected move to the House, which has passed earlier versions of the legislation with broad, bipartisan support seven times in recent years. Forcing legal businesses to operate in all-cash is dangerous for our communities; its an open invitation to robberies, muggings, money laundering, and organized crime and the only people benefiting from the current system are criminals, said Democratic U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley of Oregon in a statement after the bill passed the committee. Merkley, the bill's lead sponsor along with Republican U.S. Sen. Steve Daines of Montana, added that he is "committed to building bipartisan momentum to finally get a bill signed into law that ends the cannabis cash economy and improves public safety across the nation." Perlmutter, who retired this year after nine terms and was an original sponsor of earlier versions of the bill, told Colorado Politics on Wednesday that the Senate committee's action marks "a major rite of passage for this legislation," which he called "so logical, so necessary." Letting legal marijuana-related businesses use banking and other financial services, he added, "has been a long time coming, because we've had a lot of robberies because there's so much cash." "States all across the country have some level of cannabis use," Perlmutter said. "And this legislation allows banks to give ordinary banking services to companies that are legitimate, that have legal cannabis operations in a particular state, so they can have credit cards, deposit accounts, checking accounts, payroll accounts normal things." Polis applauded the lawmakers who advanced the bill, saying in a statement that it will "provide more certainty to our small businesses and marijuana industry." This bill supports cannabis-related businesses, supports minority, women, and veteran-owned small businesses, will help create jobs, and strengthen public safety in our communities and across the country," he said. "We look forward to seeing a full vote in the Senate and passage in the House again soon. 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. Last year, Polis and other statewide officials called on Congress to pass Perlmutter's bill, known in its earlier incarnations as the SAFE Banking Act. "The bipartisan SAFE Banking Act provides a critical pathway for banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions to offer broad scope banking services to legally operating, state regulated cannabis businesses without fear of punishment by federal regulators, while also enhancing transparency by providing broader access to reliable sources of information for purposes of regulatory oversight, wrote Polis, Lt. Gov. Dianne Primavera, Attorney General Phil Weiser, State Treasurer Dave Young and Colorado Department of Public Safetyin Executive Director Stan Hilkey in a letter to congressional leaders. "We urge Congress to take real stories, such as those in our state of Colorado, to heart and to efficiently prioritize policy approaches that promote safe banking and public safety." Perlmutter's bills won approval year after year in the House but stalled each time in the Senate, with some senators complaining the bill went too far and others unwilling to support it because it didn't do enough. Sponsors this year appear to have struck the right balance, Perlmutter said. "They realized that to be able to move the bill, it's not going to be as much as some people want," he said. "Some think it's too big, some people think it's too small. But there appears to be an agreement among Democrats and Republicans to move it in the Senate to get the 60 votes." Speaking by phone from Chicago, Perlmutter noted that he had just participated in a panel discussion about the legal marijuana industry with former U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner, the Colorado Republican who sponsored earlier versions of the bill in the Senate. Daines, the current bill's lead Republican sponsor, "has really been persevering and getting that bill done," Perlmutter added. "Cory got it started, and Daines is finishing it. I described Cory and myself as sort of starting pitchers, and now we've got some guys that are going to have to be closers." Beginning on Sunday, Coloradans will have to wait at least three days after purchasing a firearm to receive it. The new state law requires gun sellers to wait three days to deliver a gun to a purchaser, or wait for an approved background check if the check takes longer than three days. Colorado legislators passed the law in April. Proponents say delaying access to firearms is meant to prevent impulsive acts of violence, including suicides. Last year, 690 Coloradans committed suicide with firearms, accounting for more than half of all suicides in the state. The year before, Colorado had the sixth-highest suicide rate in the country. I have experienced firsthand how a cooling off period can save someone's life when they are in crisis and trying to purchase a firearm, said Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, who sponsored the waiting period bill. My son is still with us today because his background check was delayed when he went to a local gun store, and I am forever grateful he did not have instant access to a firearm that day. Waiting period laws in other states have resulted in a 7% to 11% reduction in gun suicides, and a 17% reduction in gun homicides, according to a 2017 study. Opponents argue the new law violates the constitutional right to bear arms. Rocky Mountain Gun Owners sued to block enforcement of the three-day waiting period, but a judge declined to bar the law in August. 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. Gun owners rights are being ravaged in the Colorado legislature," said Taylor Rhodes, executive director of Rocky Mountain Gun Owners, when announcing the lawsuit. "When a single mother is being harassed by a violent, abusive former partner, the Democrats at the Capitol think it is fine to make her wait at least three days to defend herself and her baby." A second new law will take effect on Sunday. The measure allows gun violence victims to sue firearm manufacturers and dealers by removing immunity protections. It also repeals a state law that makes gun violence victims pay the companys legal fees in dismissed cases. The law is named after Jessica Redfield Ghawi. Her parents, Sandy and Lonnie Phillips, sued gun dealers for selling ammunition without a background check to the man who murdered 12 people at the Aurora theater shooting in 2012, including Ghawi. The Phillips sold their house and declared bankruptcy after having to pay around $200,000 in legal fees to the dealers. Colorado used to be home to one of the most punitive laws against gun violence survivors in the country, laws that shielded them from accountability and needed to be changed, said Sen. Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, sponsor of the bill. This new law will level the playing field by removing those extra protections and allowing legitimate lawsuits to move forward. A male tarantula crosses Highway 350 south of La Junta, Colo., Tuesday evening, Sept. 26, 2023, during the annual mating ritual where the males roam the prairie of Southeastern Colorado in search of the females to breed. The best time to see the tarantula is after 5:30 p.m. to sunset on the warm days of September into October. La Juntas second Tarantula Festival is this weekend Sept. 29 and 30. The festival will feature a parade, food trucks and everything tarantulas. For more information, visit www.visitlajunta.net. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock) Grab a blanket or a lawn chair, slip on comfortable shoes and clothing, and get ready for a long day of music, dance, food, arts and fashion at this years Summers End Festival, set for Saturday, Sept. 30, at Bruce Starker Arts Park in Corvallis. Organized by South Valley Sound the first for the music production company the festival returns for its third edition with beloved rock bands from around the mid-Willamette Valley. Podcast preview: A Place to Sleep, launching September 26 Do people without housing have a constitutional right to rest? We sent reporters across the state to see what its like to sleep in these sanctioned spaces. The past two editions of the festival, organized by Jugg House Productions, a music production company Henry Hansen started with his roommates, were primarily targeted at and well attended by Beavers. Under South Valley Sound, which he co-founded, Hansen said that theyve rebranded to work with more bars and businesses, as opposed to serving solely the Oregon State University student community. "I think its going to come out more professionally and on a bigger scale," Hansen said on a call about this years event. Five bands will play, including groups from Eugene and Portland and even one from Salt Lake City, currently on tour in the valley. There will be around 40 art and clothing vendors, Hansen said. Bombs Away Cafe will serve alcohol and, according to Hansen, contracts with food trucks are being finalized ahead of the event. "Were trying to create an event that is about the celebration of art and culture in Corvallis more than just the music thats really been the focus for the last two years," Hansen said. Kira Gelbaugh, a member of Eugene-based dance rock band Common Koi, said the band is excited to play again in Corvallis. They are coming with a set of refitted old songs and new material that spans a number of genres, including blues, surf and classic rock. "Part of what makes the energy so special there is that its still relatively small, so the communication between the audience and the band is really strong," Gelbaugh said on a call. For The Macks Ben Windheim, playing at the festival comes with some nostalgia at being back in the town where he went to college. The group headlined the festival in 2021, and members are excited to be returning and playing alongside other artists and bands they've come to know, love and work with in the past, according to Windheim. "The Corvallis community is very special and has a unique vibe to it," Windheim said. "Very supportive, while being small and still staying connected to some bigger stuff going on in Eugene and Portland." Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help Support local news coverage and the people who report it by subscribing to the Corvallis Gazette-Times. With summer drawing to a close and students returning for the start of a new school year, Hansen said the festival is really a back-to-school celebration as much as it is a celebration of music, community and the outgoing summer. Survivors Describe 'Nightmare' Fire At Iraq Assyrian Wedding Iraqi Christians mourn over a coffin for a victim of wedding hall fire, during a mass funeral in Hamdaniya town, northern Iraq. ( EPA) Sameer Noel is still in shock after surviving a devastating fire that broke out at a wedding in Iraq on Tuesday night, killing more than 100 people. He describes the ordeal as a "nightmare". "I managed to get out but saw people with burns and their flesh was peeling off their bodies," Mr Noel, 33, tells The National while standing in front of the burnt building. "It was dark and people didn't know where to go." Hundreds of people were celebrating in the Qaraqosh area of Iraq's Nineveh province when tragedy struck. Also known as Hamdaniyah, Qaraqosh is a mainly Christian town just outside of Mosul, about 335km north-west of Baghdad. Many survivors said the building caught fire at about 10.45pm. Mr Noel says it all happened in seconds. "I was carrying a woman [whose limbs] had melted, she didn't have legs or arms, and another girl who lost her head," he recalls. More than 1,000 people attended the wedding, he adds. Salam Karouni, 38, says bodies were burnt, along with the furniture and other things around them. "Everything melted," he tells The National. It is not known what started the fire but some reports suggest celebratory fireworks set it off. Many of the survivors said the fire started as the bride and groom began their slow dance. The flames raced through plastic decorations, causing parts of the ceiling to catch fire and fall. Revan, the groom, cries next to his father's coffin. ( EPA) Flammable panels fuelled the blaze, officials said. It remains unknown if the bride and groom were among those hurt. Mr Karouni's brother-in-law was killed during the blaze and his nine-year-old son was missing. "We don't know where he is, we have been searching for him in all hospitals," he says, adding that his brother-in-law went back into the hall to try to save people, but died there. People were waiting outside the building in distress, while others searched for the remains of loved ones underneath the rubble. An Iraqi security crew inspects the scene at the wedding hall in Hamdaniya. ( EPA) Hamdaniyah is home to mostly Christian Assyrians, who suffered when much of Iraq was overrun by ISIS between 2014 and 2017. "Half of Hamdaniyah is gone," Mr Karouni says, his voice breaking. Among those injured was a 13-year-old boy, Daniel Wissam, whose arms were severely burnt. His mother and baby sister also suffered severe burns and were being treated in Erbil city in the Kurdistan region. Hameed Boutrous, 44, was sitting at the end of the hall. The wedding couple were dancing when fireworks were set off, causing materials on the ceiling to catch fire and fall, he says. "I managed to run out but came back inside. I couldn't see anything as it was dark, we suffocated, most of the people went into the bathrooms and died from lack of air," Mr Boutrous says. "There was no emergency exit or water sprinklers in the hall. There has to be several exit doors, we don't know who is responsible, we cannot blame anyone. "This is a tragedy, we don't know how many people have died. There are many people who are still missing, I don't know if they are in Mosul or Erbil or lying between the dead bodies." Preliminary investigation showed that the building was made of highly flammable construction materials, contributing to its rapid collapse, state media said. At Mar Youhanna church, where the wedding service took place before the evening party, deacon Hani Al Kasmousa said prayers for the dead would take place at the cemetery because there was not enough room in the church for so many mourners. "Yesterday there was a wedding and happiness. Now we are preparing their burial," he said, new coffins stacked along an alleyway near his church. Interior Ministry spokesman Saad Maan said that the primary forensic report described a "lack of safety and security measures" at the venue. Iraqi security forces arrested nine workers at the venue as part of an investigation, said Gen Abdullah Al Jabouri, a security official who heads the Nineveh Operations Command. The US offered its support following the incident. "We do stand ready to support the government of Iraq and its people at this tragic time," said US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller. Mr Miller described the incident as "horrific" and expressed sent "condolences" to the families of the victims. When Pope Francis visited Qaraqosh in 2021, residents crowded the streets in bright clothes, holding olive branches as Assyrian hymns played on loudspeakers, to celebrate the locals' return after years of militant occupation. Only about 300,000 Christians remain in Iraq after most of the 1.5 million who lived in the country fled during the chaos following the US-led invasion in 2003, an exodus aggravated by ISIS's seizure of towns in the Nineveh plains in 2014. Assyrian Archbishop Speaks of Community's Pain After Wedding Blaze Deaths ( Reuters) Iraq's Assyrians have been plunged into mourning, after a fire at a wedding celebration left more than 100 people dead and 150 injured. The blaze broke out at Al Haitham Hall, on the outskirts of Qaraqosh, in the Nineveh Plains, where the wedding reception of a Syriac Catholic couple was being held on the evening of Tuesday (26th September). Archbishop Bashar Warda of Erbil issued a statement -- a copy of which was sent to Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) -- which said "[W]ords cannot adequately describe the pain of those bringing their loved ones to their final resting places in their ancient land. "What was to be a time of joy has now turned into a whole community in mourning and deep shock". Funerals started yesterday and have continued today. Archbishop Warda said: "Patriarchs, bishops, and priests from all confessions gathered today in Qaraqosh to bury those who had perished". According to Archbishop Warda this tragedy has brought the people of Iraq together across confessional lines. He said: "The Sunnis have cancelled their celebrations of the birth of their prophet Mohammed, and we have statements of condolences and support from the Shi'a community as well. "The Governments of Iraq and Kurdistan also announced three days of mourning." According to civil defence authorities, Al Haitham Hall was built using prefabricated panels which were "highly flammable and contravened safety standards". While the cause of the blaze has not yet been officially confirmed, preliminary reports indicate that the ceiling caught alight after indoor fireworks were let off. The authorities stated: "The fire caused some parts of the ceiling to fall". The blaze spread quickly, trapping many of the 1,000 guests. Nineveh's Deputy Governor Hassan Al Allaq told Reuters that 113 people have been confirmed dead so far. But some people are still unaccounted for, with bodies being hard to identify because of the severity of the burns. Dozens are still receiving treatment in hospital for major burns and toxic-fume inhalation. Christians in Iraq's Nineveh Plains have endured social and economic hardships following the Daesh (ISIS) invasion of the region in August 2014. ACN has supported rebuilding projects in Qaraqosh, helping the Christians that returned there following the defeat of the jihadists. Archbishop Warda concluded: "I ask for your prayers for those souls we have lost and the severely injured. I ask you to pray for the Syriac community and their families within Iraq and the diaspora." The minister of Mines and Energy, Alexandre Silveiraargued this Wednesday (27) that the Petrobras (PETR4) can negotiate and reacquire refineries of oil that went privatized, within market rules. For Silveira, one of Petrobras major focuses at this time should be working so that Brazil can achieve self-sufficiency in petroleum derivatives and no longer depend on imports. Petrobras (PETR4): Refineries repurchased according to market rules We are working on several fronts to achieve this, one is to reinforce our public policy interest in Petrobras being quick to modernize its refining parks and evaluating the possibility, including, my opinion is already published, that Petrobras it must renegotiate, with the refineries that were privatized, so that within market rules it can reacquire these refineries, he stated. In addition to being supplied by Petrobras and some private refineries, the Brazilian market currently imports around 25% of diesel oil and 15% of gasoline, according to market data. CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISING The statements were made after the minister participated in the signing ceremony of the concession contracts arising from the first Transmission Lines Auction of 2023, held in June, alongside President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. An agriculture mogul who has a significant role in a pending carbon dioxide pipeline proposal will not be required to testify during its permit proceedings, the Iowa Utilities Board decided Tuesday. Several people sought a subpoena to compel the under-oath testimony of Bruce Rastetter, a co-founder of Summit Carbon Solutions. Pipeline opponents wanted him to elaborate on the companys ownership and the potential conflicts the company might have with Rastetters other business ventures. The five-state pipeline system would transport captured carbon dioxide from ethanol plants to North Dakota for underground sequestration. Rastetters Summit Agricultural Group developed the concept of the project and is part-owner of Summit Carbon Solutions, one of its executives testified earlier this month. If called to testify, Rastetter might have also faced questions about his interactions with elected officials. Pipeline opponents have speculated that his wealth and political influence have accelerated Summits project toward approval. But in a unanimous decision Tuesday, the IUB said: Mr. Rastetters testimony does not appear relevant. There has been no showing as to why Mr. Rastetter, who is not an employee of Summit Carbon, is the best person to testify in this proceeding regarding the corporate structure of a non-party, the board said. The IUB further noted that the subpoena request did not meet a deadline for such requests and that there was ample opportunity to seek Rastetters testimony earlier in the proceedings. Summits permit process has been ongoing for more than two years. Hearing resumes The approval of Summits pipeline permit in Iowa appears to be a foregone conclusion and, as such, it is futile to resist negotiating with the company, according to a fifth-generation farm owner in Wright County. I feel like its something I have to do, said John Taecker, whose family has owned his farm near Eagle Grove since the late 1800s. I dont really have much other choice. Taecker testified Tuesday at the start of the sixth week of an evidentiary hearing for Summits hazardous liquid pipeline permit request with the IUB. His familys original farm of 670 acres was bought by Taeckers great-great-grandfather in 1893, according to an application with the state to be noted as a Century Farm. The cost of the land at the time was $30 per acre. Summits pipeline route passes through 10 of the familys land parcels, which are the subject of ongoing negotiations for land easements, Taecker said. Because an agreement has not yet been reached, Taecker is among hundreds of landowners who are subject to the companys eminent domain requests. The easements allow Summit to build and operate its pipeline system on land it doesnt own. Taecker asked the board Tuesday to allow his negotiations to continue rather than granting the company eminent domain. He said he opposes hosting the pipeline on his property primarily because of the damage to the land and underground tiling and because of safety concerns but has negotiated with the company due to the threat of eminent domain. He hopes those negotiations will minimize the projects effects. Taecker said the project is likely to gain approval in Iowa because of the political forces at work. Taecker was among 17 landowners subject to eminent domain who were scheduled to testify on Tuesday, but only about half of those did testify. The hearing has seldom held to its schedule, and it appears the hearing will not conclude at the end of this week as the board had wanted. The IUB has yet to say how the hearing might proceed after this week. Attorney allowed to participate A former attorney for the Office of Consumer Advocate can continue to represent the daughter of an affected landowner during Summits permit proceedings, the IUB has decided. Anna Ryon is a former attorney for the Office of Consumer Advocate. The office sought to disqualify attorney Anna Ryon from participating in the process because she was formerly its lead representative for the process. The office argued Ryon was privy to internal information and strategy discussions and could use that knowledge against the offices interests. The office is an advocate for residents in utility proceedings. Ryon has said she left the job because the office became less of an advocate for landowners after a new state attorney general, Brenna Bird, was elected last year and state lawmakers gave Bird greater authority over the office. The IUB, in a split decision, said it is likely there is sufficient evidence to support the disqualification of Ms. Ryon, but that such a move would negatively impact her client. While the board does not appreciate the eleventh-hour maneuvers, the board nonetheless respects the rights of a party to select the counsel of its choosing, board members Josh Byrnes and Sarah Martz concluded. Board chairperson Erik Helland disagreed. He said Ryon failed to get permission from the Office of Consumer Advocate to represent other clients in the pipeline proceedings and that her client, Kerry Hirth, had plenty of time to find a different attorney. At some point there needs to be recognition that the ethical requirements, procedural rules and rules of evidence that apply to these matters are developed and adopted for the very purpose of ensuring transparency and the protection of the rights of participating parties, Helland said in his dissent. Ryon is a frequent participant in the hearing and filed the request to subpoena Rastetter. Iowans long memories will recall the slow, steady decline of elm trees in the 1970s and '80s from Dutch elm disease. Cities around the nation replaced dead elms with sturdy, fast-growing ash trees. Now a scourge is ravaging those replacement trees. The spread of the emerald ash borer has led to the removal of many mature ash trees meant to shade neighborhoods and homes for decades to come. What is emerald ash borer? EAB is an Asian native beetle first discovered in the United States in Michigan in 2002. The USDA estimates the beetle infestation began in the late 1990s due to the size of the affected ash population discovered at the time. It is likely the pest was carried over in wood pallets or packing materials for consumer goods. EAB is known to infest all species of ash. Adult beetles feed on a tree's leaves, and females work their way under the bark to lay their eggs. After the eggs hatch the larvae begin destruction of the tree in earnest. They feed on the inner bark and phloem, a thin layer under the bark made up of soft tubes that carry water and nutrients throughout the tree. The destruction of the phloem means the tree can no longer circulate water and nutrients needed to thrive. Damage to the tree's cambium layer, a reproductive layer that triggers new growth, is also devastating. The larvae overwinter, pupating in spring, and adults emerge from D-shaped exit holes in the bark during June and July, an unmistakable indicator of EAB infestation. How do I know if my tree is infested? An early sign of infestation is what is described as "crown dieback." When larvae feed on the soft phloem layer, they prevent nutrients from traveling throughout the tree's circulatory system, and the top of the tree no longer receives nutrients for growth. This can be a common symptom of other issues, so the USDA recommends using at least two signs to determine if your tree is infested. The loss of circulatory activity will cause the tree to send out new shoots where damage has not yet occurred. These are epicormic sprouts, commonly referred to as water sprouts. The tree is attempting to avoid damaged areas to ensure it's survival. Trees with larval activity, or "feeding galleries," also will form small splits along the bark. These splits form when the tree creates callous growth to heal the injury caused by the larvae. The callous grows quickly under the bark, so quickly it can split the bark, revealing lighter colored wood underneath. The larval feeding galleries attract woodpeckers. Many trees with EAB infestation see increased activity by woodpeckers seeking out the larvae to eat. Heightened woodpecker activity also may be a sign your tree is infested. Can ash trees be treated? Upon its detection in 2002, the USDA set up a monitoring program to track the spread of EAB throughout North America. It was identified in Iowa in 2015. While approximately 6% of Iowa's forest trees are species of ash, that number jumps to nearly 60% in urban areas, according to Iowa State University. Ash trees are from the genus fraxinus. White and green ash are common in Iowa. The white ash is fraxinus americana and green is fraxinus pennsylvanica. In many other areas the fraxinus americana cultivar junginger is grafted to root balls of other ash species. The resulting tree is commonly referred to as a purple ash. These cultivars were planted to replace diseased and dead elm trees in cities across the region. The cultivars do not produce seed and seemed an ideal choice at the time. Joe Bohl is Mason City's street and park supervisor as well as the city forestry supervisor. His crews have removed ash trees from right-of-ways throughout the city. "EAB has been here since 2015. We put out guidance on how to treat and care for trees then. In the meantime, it's spread so far and wide the best case scenario now is to cut them down," said Bohl. He's referring to trees in the city right-of-ways or on other city owned property. Bohl doesn't want property owners to panic thinking that their tree is next to come down. "The city has a permit you can fill out to have your tree assessed. We can determine if the tree can be saved at your expense, but at this point, we're seeing infestation in virtually all ash trees in the city," he said. Jesse Fox, certified arborist with Arbor Master, has been an arborist for over a decade and recently completed his certification. Fox has spent years working with ash trees and EAB. "What we're seeing from anecdotal evidence and some early studies is that purple ash may have some resistance to the effects of EAB," Fox said. "It's not known the extent of this resistance, but what we have seen so far is that the purple ash has a more heavily textured bark, and on branches that bark clings more tightly to the tree. This could be preventing adult beetles from burrowing under the bark to lay their eggs," Fox said. Emamectin benzoate, sold under the brand name Tree-Age, is the pesticide of choice for EAB. The beetles can complete a life cycle in just one year and emamectin benzoate is applied every one or two years through trunk injection. "I've treated trees where after the injection, adult beetles just fell out of the trees. It's like an insect rain," Fox said. "The pesticide is fatal upon ingestion, but please don't worry for the woodpeckers who eat the EAB larvae. They only eat living larvae and this pesticide kills instantly, so woodpeckers will not ingest it." Fox is a firm believer in treatment over cutting, a position the city of Mason City does not share. "The issue is that a lot of municipalities think that treating is just 'prolonging the inevitable,'" said Fox. "Cutting a mature ash could cost upward of $10,000 and treatment is only $12 per inch of tree diameter. If a city were to hire an arborist and use emamectin benzoate, they could cut those costs dramatically through bulk purchase." The city's position is based on guidance from Iowa State University that only strong, healthy trees respond well to the pesticide application, and many trees in right-of-ways have limited root structures and other stressors that prevent the trees from making a recovery. Bohl stresses that the city began a treatment program many years ago that has left a good number of ash trees in excellent condition. "It's best to treat a tree before it's infested, and we were able to do that with a select number around town. Now that the infestation is in full swing, those that haven't been treated are probably too late," Bohl said. Fox is more optimistic. "We've seen good responses from trees that were already showing signs of infestation. There's a study out of Penn State that shows a grove of white and green ash planted in the '70s was mostly wiped out. The key here is mostly. I'm excited to see what prevented the others from meeting the same fate." Property owners interested in the treatment or removal of infested trees are encouraged to use professional services. The city of Mason City offers a webpage of servicers in the area. An eastern Iowa mobile home park demolished some of its homes without testing them for asbestos and did not dispose of them in a way to prevent asbestos exposure of its residents, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. The demolitions at Fawn Creek Court in Anamosa last year spawned two of four fines totaling more than $30,000 that the DNR recently levied for asbestos violations. The other two fines stemmed from demolition of a former school building in Lost Nation. Generally, buildings that are set for demolition or significant renovation are required by federal and state law to be tested for asbestos. It is a fibrous material that can become airborne and inhaled by people, who might develop lung cancer or other ailments as a result. Its unclear whether the Fawn Creek mobile homes contained the substance, said Levi Fisher, who specializes in asbestos compliance for the DNR and investigated the demolitions. No tests of the materials happened before demolition, and the leftover debris was unsuitable for testing, he said. Pro Platinum Construction and Remodeling, which was hired to demolish the homes, claimed they did not contain asbestos, but they did not have inspection reports, according to a recent DNR administrative order. Without the tests, the debris is assumed to contain asbestos. The most common sources of asbestos in the homes are window caulking, window glaze and roof paint, Fisher said. The DNR learned of the demolitions in June 2022 because of a complaint. At the time, Fisher told Kodiak Property Management, which manages the mobile home court, to cease the demolitions. But three months later, Fisher returned to the site and noted eight more mobile homes had been demolished and that debris from the previous demolitions had been removed without taking asbestos precautions. Those precautions commonly include wetting the materials to prevent asbestos from becoming airborne and wrapping them in plastic, Fisher said. Kodiak Property Management disregarded the regulations and DNRs instructions and continued with the removal project without notifications and inspections, the DNR order said. Kodiak Property Management recently agreed to pay an $8,400 fine to settle the issue. Pro Platinum will pay $4,000. The DNR is further requiring the companies to send an employee to an asbestos inspector course and comply with regulations in the future. School renovation also cited In October 2022, DNR received a report that potential asbestos-containing material was being removed from a former school in Lost Nation and buried on site. Two people, James Ziebell and Chanchai Sooksawan, own the eastern Iowa property, which has a three-story building, a gymnasium and other buildings. As part of their renovation of the property, unspecified building materials were removed and buried in a trench, according to a DNR order. DNR tests of the materials showed they contained asbestos. Sooksawan and Ziebell each indicated that the other person was doing the renovation work. Tires were also buried along with the debris. While it is unclear as to which owner conducted the renovation and disposal, it appears that it was done by or with the knowledge of one or both of the owners, the DNR order said. Sooksawan and Ziebell were each fined $10,000 and ordered to hire an asbestos abatement company to properly dispose of the debris. They must also have the site inspected for asbestos before continuing the renovation work. Best counties to raise a family in Iowa Best counties to raise a family in Iowa #30. Hamilton County, Iowa #29. Humboldt County, Iowa #28. Carroll County, Iowa #27. Delaware County, Iowa #26. Buena Vista County, Iowa #25. Clinton County, Iowa #24. Poweshiek County, Iowa #23. O'Brien County, Iowa #22. Wright County, Iowa #21. Mills County, Iowa #20. Crawford County, Iowa #19. Grundy County, Iowa #18. Shelby County, Iowa #17. Winneshiek County, Iowa #16. Calhoun County, Iowa #15. Marion County, Iowa #14. Warren County, Iowa #13. Lyon County, Iowa #12. Marshall County, Iowa #11. Woodbury County, Iowa #10. Plymouth County, Iowa #9. Bremer County, Iowa #8. Linn County, Iowa #7. Sioux County, Iowa #6. Johnson County, Iowa #5. Dubuque County, Iowa #4. Story County, Iowa #3. Scott County, Iowa #2. Polk County, Iowa #1. Dallas County, Iowa The man accused in a May 2022 shooting death at Purdum Woods pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter Tuesday in Danville Circuit Court. Andrew Jovanni Menjivar, 26, was originally charged with second-degree murder but that count was downgraded due to the nature of the act in which 29-year-old Brandon Alexander Gore was fatally shot. He also pleaded guilty to discharge of a firearm in public resulting in injury and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The fact of the case is this is more of a manslaughter case than one of murder, said Danville Commonwealth Attorney Michael Newman. Menjivar faces a maximum of 20 years in prison and is scheduled to be sentenced Oct. 26. The incident occurred during the heat of passion amid a love triangle, according to an account of the crime from Newman. On May 17, 2022, Menjivar had been staying at a womans apartment at Purdum Woods. She had dated both Menjivar and the victim off and on, Newman said. Menjivar was at her apartment on the morning of the incident, he said. He had been staying there, helping the woman pay rent and power bills. Gore comes over that morning and knocks on the door, demanding $100 from the woman for marijuana he had given her, Newman said. Both guys knew each other, but not well, he said. They were jealous of each other. When Menjivar answers the door, both men realize they are involved with the same woman. Brandon wants the $100, Newman said. Andrew says, Were not going to pay it now, and shuts the door in his face. Gore refuses to leave after being told to do so. Hes banging on the door, Newman said. At some point, Menjivar comes back out of the apartment. The neighbors hear a scuffle and multiple gunshots, Newman said. It was during that fight that Menjivar shoots Brandon and he takes off and takes the gun with him, Newman said. Menjivar was arrested in North Carolina a few days later. A group of community leaders from Florida got a glimpse of the work Project Imagine does for Danville this week. Project Imagine hosted leaders from the Roundtable of St. Lucie County, Florida on Monday and Tuesday. The groups leaders requested a visit to Project Imagine after seeing its presentation at the National Gang Crime Research Centers conference in Chicago in late July and early August. Danville was a shining star, Teresa Bishop, CEO of the Roundtable of St. Lucie County, Florida, told the Danville Register & Bee during an interview Tuesday morning at Project Imagines location on Third Avenue off North Main Street. The four-person delegation also visited the Danville Police Department and Danville Public Schools. The Roundtable of St. Lucie County, Florida, includes county and business leaders who address the obstacles that children face. Project Imagine is our peer, Bishop said. Theyre implementing the Comprehensive Gang Model just as we are. We have unique aspects of the work that we do and so do they. So as a peer-to-peer, the Justice Department recommends that we visit each other to see what pieces theyre doing tp see what we can adapt in our community. At the conference in Chicago, Project Imagine staff highlighted how Danville worked collaboratively to implement the Comprehensive Gang Model. The Roundtable of St. Lucie also operates under the Comprehensive Gang Model structure. Project Imagine is a community violence intervention collaborative that works to steer youths away from gang activity. It is based on the evidence-based theory of Cognitive Behavior Therapy in that if the youth can implement new information and standards, then they can change their behavior. The idea is to create a positive image in the mind of a youth so that they can imagine a life without gangs or crime. Since weve been here, weve identified a number of things that Danville is doing very well that we would like to consider as it relates to St. Lucie County, in their approach to work with kids who are disadvantaged and are involved with gangs in the community, Bishop said. Project Imagine does more than work with youth to prevent gang activity. Addressing that issue also entails tackling problems and conditions in the community that can lead to it, said Robert David, violence prevention manager for Project Imagine. It involves working with everyone in the community, not just the Danville Police Department, but business owners, organizations and residents. Its the power of collaboration, David said. Everyone has a role. That can include everything from getting referrals for youths to Project Imagine from the local barber shop or the police department to getting an elderly residents air conditioner repaired, which can have an impact on living conditions, David said. Project Imagine is not a program, but a system, he said. We are a support system you dont have, David said. For the youths it serves, Project Imagine helps provide gear for those participating in sports, provide job-skills training, take them college tours. This is a holistic approach, he said. As for Bishops group in Florida, its mission is to sustain a team of county and business leaders who mobilize resources to improve the education, health, safety, nutrition and care of all children in St. Lucie County, according to its web site. Roundtable of St. Lucie focuses on three areas, Bishop said. We look at gang violence, substance abuse and mental health, she said. Each of those three aspects include a committee that advises the group on those topics. Committees include elected officials, law enforcement and school officials who research those problem areas and identify the best solution, according to the groups web site. The Roundtable of St. Lucie County was established in 1995. St. Lucie Countys population is nearly 350,000. The group is committed to addressing key risk factors that lead to delinquency, crime and other problem behaviors in children, and strengthening assets to implement initiatives that support childrens success, according to its web site. David was excited about the Roundtables visit to the city. This is huge for little old Danville, he said. GREENSBORO N.C. A&T is welcoming a call from two Biden administration cabinet members for North Carolina to provide roughly $2 billion in restitution to make up for a per-student gap in funding with N.C. State over a 30-year timeframe. U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Thomas Vilsack sent letters to 16 governors on Sept. 18, pointing out a combined disparity of over $12 billion between Historically Black Colleges and Universities and their non-HBCU land-grant peers from 1987 to 2020 years supported by data from the National Center for Education Statistics. Land grant refers to property that the federal government gave to states to sell or rent, with the proceeds intended to establish a university. Under a federal law enacted in 1890, states had to either not include race in their admissions criteria for these universities or establish separate land-grant universities for colored students, using a just and equitable division of the fund. North Carolina A&T State University, the 1890 land-grant institution in your state, while producing extraordinary graduates that contribute greatly to the states economy and the fabric of our nation, has not been able to advance in ways that are on par with North Carolina State University at Raleigh, the original Morrill Act of 1862 land-grant institution in your state, in large part due to unbalanced funding, the secretaries wrote. However, the chairman of the N.C. House Universities Committee had a more skeptical take. I think it misses the mark in a lot of ways, said N.C. Rep. Jon Hardister, a Whitsett Republican who suggested the two schools arent fully comparable. For example, A&T has more non-resident students 33.5% vs. 19.7% for N.C. State. And A&T also has a lower proportion of graduate students 12% vs. 27% at N.C. State. Those distinctions have been relevant to how much money each school receives. A&T history professor Jelani Favors said that anyone familiar with the legacy of segregation in the United States will not be shocked that public HBCUs have not received resources on par with their peers. We created an entire system around separate but equal understanding that these systems ... are never equal, he said. The Biden administration is now saying the obvious. Still, Hardister, Favors and other A&T leaders all pointed to significant state funding gains for A&T in recent years and in the new budget, which was passed this month (this paragraph has been updated to correct a name 10/1/23 10:54 a.m.) According to an analysis Hardister requested from legislative staff, A&T saw a 68.9% growth in state funding the highest of any school in the UNC System by a significant margin. Thats comparing the states base budget for 2020-21 and the recently passed 2023-24 conference budget. The 2023-24 figures do not yet include salary, benefit and enrollment adjustments. Among other UNC System HBCUs, Fayetteville State and Elizabeth City State ranked high for state funding growth, but Winston-Salem State and North Carolina Central are at the bottom of the list. That is likely driven by two main factors: (1) Those institutions have seen recent enrollment declines, so they would not have seen positive enrollment adjustments and (2) compared to institutions like N.C. A&T, they have received relative few funding increases to specific programs outside of the legislative salary and benefit changes, said Stephen Bailey, the fiscal analyst for the General Assembly who compiled the analysis, in a response forwarded by Hardister. Oliver Thomas, A&Ts director of external affairs, said five or six years ago university leaders took stock of progress on the schools strategic plan and made it a goal to become a top level or R-1 research university. That led them to look more intently at the funding the school was receiving from the state and to ramp up advocacy for more dollars. In a forthcoming column for his On Point newsletter, A&T Chancellor Harold Martin celebrated key victories for the university in the state budget just passed. One of those was legislators appropriating $10.7 million in recurring funds for agriculture research and extension. Also, Martin pointed to an appropriation of $10 million in annually recurring money plus an additional non-recurring investment of $5 million in the 2023-25 budget for A&Ts project of becoming an R-1 university. N.C. A&T is an integral part of our state and we want to continue to see it grow and flourish, wrote Lauren Horsch, a spokeswoman for Senate leader Phil Berger, a Republican from Rockingham County. Thats why in the latest state budget the General Assembly included the necessary funding for N.C. A&T to pursue a Carnegie R1 classification which would make N.C. A&T the first HBCU with an R1 classification. Martin said the funding progress comes on the heels of other gains, including $30 million in support of the College of Engineering. Our new budget illustrates that the solution-driven collaboration that secretaries Vilsack and Cardona advocate for is indeed possible, Martin wrote. In fact, it is the only way that progress is ultimately made. 'No Reason to Keep Living:' Assyrian Wedding Fire Burns All Hope The destroyed interior of Haytham Hall in Hamdaniya district on September 28, 2023. ( Julian Bechocha/Rudaw) Baghdede, Iraq -- The haunting screams of victims' loved ones, harrowing sights as endless coffins poured into a desolate graveyard, and the undeniable loss of "complete hope" all compound the intense scale of devastation that Hamdaniya's Assyrian Christian community is suffering due to a catastrophic wedding fire on Tuesday. The community is on its knees. Hamdaniya on Thursday resembled a horror zone as its distraught community woke up to a second morning of intense grief. Families, friends, and loved ones of victims headed to church and later made their way to a barren, dilapidated graveyard on the outskirts of town, mourning the loss of over a hundred of their kin and laying them to rest -- a devastating incident easily preventable if endemic corruption in Iraq was not a lingering plague. Tragedy struck the Assyrian Christian town of Hamdaniya in Nineveh province, also known as Qaraqosh or Bakhdida, on Tuesday night during a joyous wedding with scenes of celebration and laughter soon derailed into a hellish nightmare, when fireworks projected from the floor set the banquet hall's plastic, highly-flammable ceiling ablaze during a packed wedding of over a thousand attendees. In just a few hours, over 114 had died and hundreds more were injured, as the hall completely burned down and the roof caved in. Screams, ululates and relentless cries echoed over the courtyard of the Syriac Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception (al-Tahira al-Kubra) in the morning as families and loved ones of victims exited the funeral mass for the victim. Many were beating themselves, unable to control the intense feelings of grief that the tragedy inflicted. "My sweet, sweet wife, my life partner, how am I supposed to continue living? Fifty-six years we were married. You are and will always be my home and my happiness. I have now lost the purpose to keep living. I am eighty years old and hope that Jesus Christ will put me out of my misery soon," Francis Butrus, an elderly Assyrian Christian deacon at the church who lost his wife in the tragedy, told Rudaw English outside the church. "I will now go to bury the forever love of my life. What kind of celebration was that? It is a complete tragedy and my mind still cannot comprehend all the damage," a visibly distraught Butrus said, giving in to his emotions with the weight of the agony too heavy to not break down. "I have no reason to keep living." Scenes from the Hamdaniya graveyard as families and loved ones of victims mourn the dead. ( Bilind T. Abdullah/Rudaw) A mass funeral The town essentially resembled a massive funeral, with fabric tents exclusively for funerals lining its narrow streets and virtually every single family has suffered tremendous losses. Fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, husbands, daughters, grandparents, and grandchildren -- the inferno showed no remorse and did not spare a soul. Entire families perished in the flames. An elderly woman outside the church explicitly held the Iraqi government responsible for "extreme and unforgivable negligence" that led to the tragedy, lamenting the outcome of the easily preventable incident and calling for urgent explanations. "The authorities have blood on their hands. Blood. How will I ever forget this suffering? I am old and my best days are behind me, but so many of our young, innocent youth, will soon be burned underground without a chance at life, without hope, and with a government that has categorically failed them. Curse this wretched government," the woman who declined to be named out of fear of reprisal despite the circumstances told Rudaw English. The bride and groom, named Haneen and Rivan, survived the fire after escaping through the kitchen door, contradicting initial reports that they had died. They were treated at an Erbil hospital before returning to Hamdaniya. Funeral mass for the victims of Tuesday's deadly wedding fire at the Syriac Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception (al-Tahira al-Kubra) in Nineveh province's Hamdaniya district on September 28, 2023. ( Julian Bechocha/Rudaw) While alive, their psychological situation is dire and they have lost many family members. "The bride lost her whole family -- three brothers, all of her uncles and her young cousins. The groom lost his mother," Jamil al-Jamil, a friend of the couple, told AFP news agency. 'Empty promises' It was yet another easily preventable tragedy in Iraq, and another instance of Iraqi government officials reiterating their commitment to do better and prevent such disasters from happening. The people, however, "will not believe a single word from the government" and "have lost all hope in this cursed country," with residents claiming that the hall's owner had received multiple warnings to not host parties but was able to continue operating through bribes and powerful connections. "I would always say that maybe I should give this country one more chance when disasters would occur, but this time I have had enough. This time, the rich and corrupt became even richer and more corrupt at the expense of my innocent daughter. I do not want to breathe this country's air any longer," a wailing mother shouted inside a graveyard on the outskirts of Hamdaniya, as she watched her daughter be put to rest. In 2019, Iraqi authorities uttered similar remarks of promised improvement after a deadly tragedy struck a ferry in Mosul as it capsized in the Tigris River, killing at least 100 people including 12 children. Residents and journalists wait for the arrival of Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani before the Saint Behnam Syriac Catholic Church in Hamdaniya on September 28, 2023. ( Julian Bechocha/Rudaw) "Just as they lied about improvement after the ferry nightmare, they will laugh, eat their meals on a happy stomach, and lie again. We are the only victims," the woman screamed. Kindness yet prevails After the bodies of the victims were buried, the uncontrollable screams and cries of mourners intensified as they began to exit through the graveyard's main gate. Volunteer teams and residents of the scattered houses near the isolated cemetery handed out plastic cups of cold water to the suffering families and other funeral-goers, carrying an ancient tradition of kindness despite reeling from terrible atrocities. "I lost my brother and sister to this tragedy, but what can I do? Life goes on and I can only hope that flowers will bloom from their graves," Behnam Issac, 60, told Rudaw English as he was distributing water near his house. "Christians in this country are driven from one tragedy to the next," he added. Elsewhere near the Saint Behnam Syriac Catholic Church in central Hamdaniya, residents awaited the arrival of Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani amid a heavy security presence. As the prime minister arrived, some locals smirked and commented on his arrival, saying the visit is only to enhance public image. "The people die and the men in suits arrive to condemn the incidents. We have had enough of this," a Hamdaniya local told Rudaw English outside the church as Sudani exited his car in a long, armored convoy. 'Contravened safety standards' The blaze was triggered by fireworks directed at a highly-flammable ceiling built with a plastic material deemed illegal by the Iraqi government. Iraqi civil defense said on Wednesday that the usage of plastic panels for the hall's ceiling was illegal, "highly flammable, and contravened safety standards." Hamdaniya Mayor Issam Bahnam told Rudaw on Wednesday that the owner of the banquet hall ahd previously been alerted that the material used in the building was illegal due to its flammability, and was asked to remove it. The owner, however, argued that the material was yet to be illegalized when the hall was initially built in 2012. In war-scarred Iraq, safety standards are often ignored as sub-standard buildings, such as Hamdaniya's Haytham Hall, lack adequate fire extinguishers and emergency facilities such as evacuation doors. Rudaw English was unable to gain authorization to enter Haytham Hall due to an ongoing Iraqi civil defense and special forces operation to uncover possible corpses of victims inside the hall. A corpse was pulled out by civil defense teams from underneath the charred remains of the rubble on Thursday afternoon. Civil defense teams said at the site that they are expecting further bodies underneath the destruction. The country is known for frequent fires in the summer, whether in government buildings or private facilities, but a recent string of fires at this time of the year raises concerns about the adequacy of the preventative measures that the government pledged to tackle over two years ago, after a series of blazes destroyed major hospitals, leaving dozens dead and injured. On Wednesday, Iraq's interior ministry announced that 14 individuals had been arrested in relation to the tragic Hamdaniya fire. The ministry said that the findings of a previously-launched investigation will be announced in the coming days. Hamdaniya is one of Iraq's only Christian-majority districts, located in the Nineveh Plains near Mosul, a historic Assyrian region. Like many Christian towns in the Nineveh Plains, it was taken over by Islamic State (ISIS) jihadists during their brazen sweep of northern Iraq, where they declared a so-called "caliphate" and inflicted grave atrocities on minority groups, including Christians. The Assyrian Christian towns were retaken by Iraqi and Kurdish security forces in 2017 when ISIS was driven out of the area. Hamdaniya was visited by Pope Francis during his historic visit to Iraq in 2021. Recovery has been slow, with many Christians unwilling to go back to their hometowns which their ancestors have called home for millennia, citing security concerns, the presence of foreign militias in the areas, and the lack of economic opportunities. Fading hope Hamdaniya is one of the towns recovering best from the reign of ISIS, with its churches being gradually rebuilt and its remaining inhabitants in Iraq slowly returning. However, residents now say that the inferno, which struck on a day that should have known little but celebration and joy, has mired them in intense grief and decimated their tightly-packed community. Wardiya Shabo, a middle-aged woman mourning the loss of her father dressed in full black attire, looked out towards the haunting remains of Haytham Hall, a site that used to resemble celebration, happiness, and the coming together of newly-weds as they bonded in endless love, but now is explicitly associated with a deadly tragedy. "May Jesus Christ have mercy on our souls," she sighed. Note: This play is rated PG-13. Content warning: Contains suicidal ideation, drug use. Whats worse than being around an angsty 13-year-old? Being the angsty 13-year-old. Everything SUCKS. At least thats the loudly proclaimed belief of the two teens in "Shiner," a play by Christian Durso, staged by Ravens Feather Productions at the Helena Avenue Theatre through Oct. 1. Shows are 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 28, through Saturday, Sept. 30, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1. Durso describes the play as a grunge rock teen love story within a suicide pact. Set in 1994, two outcasts bond over their love for grunge rock and Nirvana. The death of Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain casts a pall over the pairs plans. While one teen spirals to the dark side, the other begins to pull out of the pact, sees hope and reaches out to help the other. Like most Ravens Feather productions, the play is an opportunity for a community conversation, said Kal Poole, program director for the behavioral health nonprofit Catalyst for Change and the former managing director of Grandstreet Theatre. Its an opportunity to engage the subject of mental health and suicide prevention in our community. Ravens Feather does a good job of curating a conversation. In this case, following each performance, a mental health specialist is on hand to answer questions and share local mental health resources. Its important to have these conversations in our community because its affecting everybody, Poole said, adding that the state leads the nation in suicidality. Its a terrible statistic. Its also important to let the audience know about the new nationwide number, 988, to call. Its for people experiencing suicidal thoughts and for those who are friends and family who are reaching out for help with a loved one. According to producer Ross Peter Nelson, Ravens Feather thought it was important to do a play on this topic. Of all the ones we read, it feels like its drawn from real experience. Its not too moralistic or preachy. While the playwright has called it a love story, Nelson calls it a love of music story. Its the music they connect with, particularly that of Kurt Cobain and Nirvana. Wide-eyed Jake (played by Ryne Sorensen) is swept into a mind-altering state of ecstasy when he claps headphones on and hears grunge music for the first time. But theres more than the love of music. Jake discovers his growing feelings for Margot (Abby Rausch), a fellow outcast and the founder of the Grunge Rock Underground National Great Escape After School Club. Director Errol Koch said hes drawn to stories about kids doing their best just trying to survive, noting that he has previously directed Spring Awakening and Rent, and finds himself drawn to stories about angsty teenagers. The play is about the messy life of a teenager in the 90s. He was struck by the intricacies and demands of the play. It asks two adults to play children. Be 13 again find yourself and advocate for these kids as 13-year-olds in all their messiness and all their mistakes. Its an exercise in empathy. You have to believe them and you have to love them." Koch said the play was as challenging as I imagined it to be." This was a hard process for these two actors. Im really proud of them. They really did a great job, he said. Among those he urges to see the show are parents. Its such a good exploration of what your kids are thinking about and emotionally processing. I think, at its core, it says a lot of pretty honest things about trying to grow up. Its about kids trying to find autonomy more than anything," he said. For Durso, the play was inspired by his first experience as an adolescent listening to Nirvanas music. When I first listened to (Nevermind) the world just opened up for me. I was going through puberty and trying to figure out who I was IN that world, he said. If you think its just about suicide, you miss a lot of the beauty of it, said an audience member after the show. They were laugh-out-loud-funny at times. I saw it as a window into a teenagers mind, which was delightful and quirky. Note: September is Suicide Prevention Month. There will be mental health counselors and professionals at each show, who are there to answer questions and provide accurate information about suicide prevention. Tickets are $20 general admission, $15 students and are available at ravensfeather.org, or at the door, 1319 Helena Ave. Suicide Prevention Resources Montanas Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Crisis Lifeline 988 is available 24/7 and is answered in Montana by three call centers. The Lifeline can assist if you or a friend are suicidal or if you would like information on how to help. Over 70% of the calls are de-escalated on the line. Suicide is one of the most preventable types of death. It is always OK to ask if someone youre worried about is thinking about suicide. You will not make it worse. Instead, youll show them that you care. Want to learn simple steps to help? Attend a free QPR (Question-Persuade-Refer) training at St. Peters Health on Sept. 29 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in SPH's Prickly Pear room. Register at https://events.sphealth.org/events/6331 For more info, https://988lifeline.org Lights of Hope Helena, a local rendition of a nationwide event honoring those affected by cancer, is scheduled for Friday night and will honor the late librarian, Carroll College professor and school board trustee Lois Fitzpatrick. "Fitzpatrick passed away in March in one of her multiple cancer occurrences but left behind a legacy that continues to inspire those who knew and worked with her on many initiatives," a news release from the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network states. The 13th annual national Lights of Hope was held Sept. 19, and the Washington, D.C., iteration featured more than 65,000 paper bag luminaries displayed along the Potomac River. Each state had a pillar at the national event to honor a member of its community who is engaged in the fight against cancer or who died from cancer. Fitzpatrick was featured on Montanas pillar. Lights of Hope Helena will be held at the state Capitol, and the public is invited to to participate beginning at 6:30 p.m. Friday, 1301 E 6th Ave. Fitzpatrick, 70, was a native of New York who eventually settled in Helena. She was a librarian for 33 years and professor emeritus at Carroll College, serving in multiple state roles for the Cancer Action Network for decades. At the time of her death, she was on the Helena Public Schools board of trustees and had made trips to the Capitol to advocate for legislation supporting those with cancer and their families. Keri Yoder, Montana State Lead Ambassador for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, said Fitzpatrick's work affected thousands of Montanans. "She stood up for every underserved and low-income population that often just get left by the wayside," Yoder said. "She worked with ACLU and was a big supporter of the LGBTQ community. A friend of ours called her a 'moral giant,' and I think that is very fitting." The American Cancer Society notes "Fitzpatrick was a key driver in many Montana anti-cancer legislative victories, including the Montana Clean Indoor Air Act and the Tobacco Use Prevention Program. She made Montana a healthier place to live." The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network is accepting donations in honor of Fitzpatrick. Donations can be made by visiting the organization's website, https://bit.ly/3ZwIo2d. For every $10 donation, a Lights of Hope bag will be lit in Fitzpatrick's honor. "In the fight against cancer and the tobacco industry, Lois Fitzpatrick's voice resonated like a clarion call of unwavering determination, ACS CAN Montana Government Relations Director Kristin Page-Nei stated. Her fierce advocacy was a testament to her unyielding spirit, fearlessly taking on challenging fights to champion what was right. As an incredible volunteer and a true friend, her legacy echoes in the hearts of those she touched." Helena College University of Montana is reporting a 6% increase in enrollment this year, its dean and chief executive officer said. Sandra Bauman said the headcount number is 1,479, which is the highest enrollment since 2018. Classes began Aug. 28. Its really, really good, Bauman told members of Hometown Helena, a grassroots civic group, on Thursday. She said all of the college's trade programs are full. Bauman said contractors are in the painting stage of construction to the cosmetology space and classes will officially start in January, adding there is a lot of interest in the program. She said there are 30 people enrolled in related general education classes to help get them in the door. The colleges cosmetology program will be the first public program in the state and the first to offer an associate degree. Classes will begin in January. The program can be completed in four semesters and/or 15 months, college officials say. The program will prepare students for cosmetology licensure exams with the Montana State Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists. Students will complete their practical hours for the program in the Helena College School of Cosmetology salon, a full-service salon. The curriculum will prepare students for employment in all areas of cosmetology, including hair cutting, coloring and styling; makeup application; nails; and esthetics. Students can earn an associate of applied science cosmetology degree. The cosmetology program will be in a space that was the fire bay for the Fire & Emergency Services program. The cost for the new space is about $2 million, a college spokeswoman said in March, with $1.5 million of that for construction. Bauman also said Helena College is fully staffed this year. Enrollment numbers were released earlier this week for some other Montana campuses, with the two largest state schools reporting increases. University of Montana, 10,327 students, showed an increase of 3.7% this year. Montana State University said its 16,978 enrollment is a 2% jump from last fall and is the highest in its 130-year history. Two Yellowstone County residents have been indicted in separate federal court cases with accusations of threatening state and national leaders. Anthony James Cross and Richard Lee Rogers both face charges in U.S. District Court of threatening to kill members the United States Congress. Cross, 29, pleaded not guilty Wednesday to threatening the lives of Sen. Jon Tester and President Joe Biden. Rogers meanwhile is accused of threatening to kill Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Kevin McCarthy and making harassing telephone calls. In early February, according to court documents, Rogers threatened to fatally assault Rep. McCarthy in retaliation for his actions as house speaker. That same day, Rogers, a Shepherd resident, made several harassing phone calls. Court documents do not specify to whom the alleged calls were made. In April, court documents said, Cross made his threats to Tester and Biden. He allegedly threatened to murder Tester and, according to court documents, stated, I will personally kill Joe Biden. Cross fell under federal scrutiny in April when he allegedly threatened a woman at a Billings trailer park with a pellet gun. The woman was walking her dog when Cross brandished a pellet gun designed to look like a Glock handgun, court documents said. After Crosss arrest by Yellowstone County deputies, the FBI allegedly told investigators with the Yellowstone County Sheriffs Office that the bureau had uncovered videos posted online in which Cross threatened politicians and transgender people. Also among the videos was a recording Cross made in which he threatened to kill a man sleeping in a car parked near his home, court documents said. Yellowstone County District Court prosecutors have charged Cross with one count of assault with a weapon in connection to the allegation of him pointing a pellet gun at the woman walking her dog. Cross is slated to go to trial for the Yellowstone County charges in October. Cross pleaded not guilty Wednesday to the federal charges, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorneys Office. If convicted of threatening to kill a U.S. Senator, he could be sentenced up to 10 years in prison. Rogers is scheduled to make his initial appearance in federal court next month. On Tuesday, a Montana man was sentenced to six years in prison for his role in the U.S. Capitol insurrection on Jan. 6, 2021. Isaac Steve Sturgeon, a 34-year-old man from Dillon, was previously convicted in U.S. Court of seven crimes, including obstruction of an official proceeding and civil disorder. Sturgeon was a part of the mob that stormed restricted areas of the Capitol building. He also assisted in taking apart a bike rack and forcing it against law enforcement, court documents said, injuring at least one officer. As political newcomer and Bozeman attorney Ben Alke ramps up his Democratic campaign for Montana attorney general, he said he envisions a less politicized role for the state's top law official. Alke this week formally launched his campaign for the Democratic nomination for the post now held by Republican Austin Knudsen, whose political career includes two stints as speaker of the House before his election to statewide office. Alke is among a slate of new Democratic faces for statewide elected offices, including Ryan Busse for governor and Jesse Mullen, who ran unsuccessfully for state Senate in 2022, for Montana secretary of state. The 44-year-old said in an interview Wednesday he considers himself a centrist in political philosophy, and wants to see a similarly muted Attorney General's Office carry out its work. "The impartial operation of the justice department, the independence of the court system those are the things I care about most," Alke said. "And I want to take on someone that I view as an extremist who is using the office as a platform to try to drive people apart and exceed the proper bounds of that office." Alke was raised in Helena, attended college at Notre Dame and attended law school at Northwestern in Chicago. Currently a partner at Crist, Krogh, Alke & Nord, he said his practice in unfair trade practices, consumer protection and public land access cases has set him up well for the post. Alke identified several episodes that prompted him to run, including the 41 counts of alleged professional misconduct related to Knudsen's office's criticisms of the Montana Supreme Court during a high-voltage separation-of-powers dispute during Knudsen's first term. Another was the 2021 incident at a Helena restaurant in which a customer was charged with felony assault with a weapon and three misdemeanors for flashing a gun at an employee who asked him to leave if he would not wear a mask. Knudsen's office directed local prosecutors to drop the two misdemeanor charges related to concealed carry of a firearm; then-Lewis and Clark County Attorney Leo Gallagher refused, and requested the case be reassigned. The Attorney General's Office eventually took over the prosecution. "That's kind of the moment where I decided this is something I wanted to do," Alke said. "The decision to drop criminal charges against someone for politically motivated reasons is dangerous. That's just the flip side of the coin of bringing criminal charges against someone for political reasons. And there's absolutely zero room for any political considerations in decisions related to the enforcement of the law." Knudsen has not yet officially declared whether he'll seek re-election. Montana Republicans, meanwhile, pre-empted Alke's announcement for the AG contest in August, sending out a press release painting him as a liberal trial attorney, drawing an association to former President Barack Obama because he clerked for Obama-appointed U.S. District Court Judge Brian Morris. The release likewise listed off Knudsen's accomplishments in his first term, like supporting legislation to fund new drug dogs for local law enforcement and adding agents for human trafficking investigations. "As attorney general, Knudsen has been at the forefront of fighting federal government overreach and is part of more than a dozen lawsuits against the Biden Administration," the GOP's August statement reads. Alke said Wednesday he clerked for Morris during his time on the Montana Supreme Court, predating the Obama appointment, but called the GOP's warning of his candidacy "typical, partisan B.S." "It's trying to distract from the message that I'm going to put forward, which is that this is not a political position," he said. "You have to run as one party or the other, but the way that job is done, it doesn't matter whether you're a Republican or Democrat. Do we care more about things about truth and justice, or do we care about labels?" Montana's recent election cycles have shown voters trending further to the right, with Republicans capturing a super-majority in the state Legislature and GOP Congressman Matt Rosendale claiming 57% percent of the vote Montana's eastern congressional district, in which a third-party candidate took second place over a Democrat. "I'm not naive, I know this is going to be challenge," Alke said. "Montana is still a small enough state population-wise that who you are and how you conduct yourself still matters." GREENSBORO In keeping with the states push towards clean energy, a local startup announced Tuesday it plans to launch a school next year that will train a new workforce of battery technicians for the Triad. Gov. Roy Cooper visited Soelects facilities for the announcement of the new school aptly named the Carolina Battery Institute which will partner with area community colleges and admit 600 students every year. The Carolina Battery Institute will offer three courses on quality control, battery testing and battery manufacturing courses, according to June Sunwoo, Soelects senior manager of business development. Sunwoo said that the courses will be held at Soelects facilities at 4355 Federal Drive in Greensboro. The company has an affiliation agreement with Forsyth Tech, and anticipates future agreements with GTCC and Randolph Community College in Asheboro. During the announcement, CEO Jin Cho said that finding the right people has been a challenge for Soelect. Weve faced many challenges to hire the right, skilled workers, Cho said. Especially battery technicians. Dr. Alan Murdock, Forsyth Techs chief economic mobility officer, said that he was excited for the school to be affiliated with such a strong company for battery production. Theyve said theyre having a hard time hiring that workforce, so lets create the solution, Murdock said. Soelects announcement is part of the states Clean Energy Week, which is an effort to highlight North Carolinas progress in transitioning to a future reliant on renewable sources. North Carolina is the epicenter of clean energy, Cooper told those in attendance on Tuesday. When I talk to some in government who are less enthusiastic about it, I dont even talk about climate change, though we have to talk about it. What I talk about is the green. If you talk to any CEO of any car company in the world, they will tell you that they are stumbling all over themselves to get into the market first for affordable vehicles. Cooper commended Soelect and its CEO and founder, Sung Jin-Cho, who conducted major research on solid-state batteries for four years at N.C. A&T before starting his company. Soelect was founded in 2018 and has raised more than $13 million from a pool of investors that include General Motors. In April 2022, Soelect announced a $200 million joint partnership with a foreign company called Lotte Ventures to make advanced battery components for electric vehicles in the U.S. The company also appointed former U.S. Sen. Richard Burr as a senior advisor during the same month in order to use his experience to find both public and private investment sources. During the announcement, Cho referenced the strong demand for battery manufacturing in the Triad because of investments from companies such as Toyota, John Deere and Boom Supersonic. Emily Holland, a corporate communications manager for Toyota who attended the announcement, said that Toyota is reviewing and considering what a possible partnership with the Carolina Battery Institute would look like. In a statement, Piedmont Triad Partnership CEO Mike Fox said that the launch of the Carolina Battery Institute is further evidence that the Carolina Core a 120-plus mile stretch of central North Carolina that includes the Triad has emerged as a global transportation technology hub. With more than $15 billion in recent capital investment pouring into the Carolina Core, he said, the region has diversified from its rich legacy of textiles, tobacco and furniture manufacturing to a future-forward economy catalyzed by research, innovation and business partnerships coming out of local colleges and universities. NEWTON During the summer months, Catawba County youth participated in the annual 4-H presentation contests, leading to the state presentation contest which was held at N.C. State University in Raleigh. Several Catawba County 4-Hers earned top awards at the state presentation contest in July. Gold presentation winners were Lily Bean, Uriah Sigmon, Clayton Livingston and Kaytlin Thompson. Lily Bean was the entomology winner for 8- to 10-year-olds. She is a member of the Catawba 4-H Equestrians Club and a student at Mountain View Elementary School. She was inspired to create a presentation on bot flies based on treating these pests on her horses. Lily was a first-time presenter. Uriah Sigmon was the 11- to 13-year-old electric winner. He is a member of the Electric 4-H Club and created his presentation based on what he is learning with the club. Kaytlin Thompson was the 14- to 18-year-old fisheries and aquatic resources winner with her presentation on growing shrimp. She was inspired to explore the topic based on her love of science and exploring new topics. Clayton Livingston was the 8- to 10-year-old wheels and engines winner. Clayton was a member of the Small Engine 4-H Club and based his presentation on his interest in engines sparked by the 4-H club. Uriah, Kaytlin and Clayton are all home-school students. Silver presentation winners were Samuel Golden, 14- to 18-year-old horticulture sciences; Lupita Ortiz, 14- to 18-year-old health and fitness; and Kylee Carpenter, 14- to 18-year-old arts and communication. Other Catawba County 4-Hers who were district presentation winners and participated in the state presentation contest were Caleb Dean, Mary Doughty, Selah Sigmon and Josiah Florez 4-H presentations are a longtime traditional offering in North Carolina 4-H. Presentations are a five- to 12-minute planned talk with visuals. There are almost 30 different presentation categories. Presentations begin in late spring with youth presenting on the county level and then moving on to a district or regional contest. More than 300 youth ages 8 to 18 participated in the state presentation contests, after being selected as district winners in their respective regions. The district and state presentation winners received cash awards. After participating in the state presentation contest, several of the teens remained in Raleigh, where they represented Catawba County at N.C. 4-H Congress, an annual teen leadership conference. The state presentation contest kicks off N.C. 4-H Congress. After youth join 4-H, they are eligible to participate in a variety of different 4-H activities and contests, such as presentations. For information about joining or starting a 4-H club, contact Donna Mull, Catawba County 4-H agent, at Cooperative Extension at 828-465-8240 or donna_mull@ncsu.edu. 4-H is a volunteer-led youth development program for ages 5 to 18. The woman who shot and killed her coworker at a Hickory furniture plant will spend a minimum of 20 years in prison. Tangela Parker, 52, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the shooting death of 51-year-old Phelifia Michelle Marlow. Parker entered the plea during Catawba County Superior Court on Thursday. Judge Bradley B. Letts handed down a prison sentence of 241 to 300 months following testimony from Marlows family and evidence presented by the prosecution and the defense. The plea hearing lasted nearly four hours. Nine relatives and friends of Marlow addressed the court. They talked about how her murder impacted their lives. Each person asked the judge to grant the maximum sentence for Parker. Michelle Marlows daughter Mak Marlow spoke as her father Justin Marlow stood beside her. Justin Marlow held a canvas photo of Michelle and cried. January 13, 2021, was not only the day that my mother was murdered, but it is the day that my life forever changed, Mak Marlow said. That is the day I lost my best friend, my rock, my support system. My mother was the one constant that I had in life. The person who had been through it all, my mother didnt have a single bad bone in her body. As Mak Marlow spoke, muffled cries could be heard from the courtroom gallery which included a large contingent of the Marlow family. Tangela Parker remained still and kept her gaze focused on the judge. Defense attorney Victoria Jayne read a short letter from Tangela Parker addressed to the family. Tangela Parker wiped away tears as Jayne talked. I ask the Marlow family in front of Jesus Christ and all these witnesses to forgive me, the letter read. Im sorry for the pain Ive caused your family. I pray for your family daily that our Lord will comfort you when you mourn. Tangela Parker declined to speak during the hearing. The shooting of Michelle Marlow On Jan. 13, 2021, Tangela Parker shot Michelle Marlow twice at the TCS Designs factory in Hickory shortly before 2:30 p.m., Assistant District Attorney Timothy Gould said. When Hickory police officers arrived at the scene, Michelle Marlow was still alive. She died in the hospital later that same day, Gould said. One gunshot entered the left side of Michelle Marlows chest and exited through her left arm. The second gunshot entered through the back of her head, Gould said. After she was struck with the first bullet, Michelle turned and tried to run away, Gould said. Tangela Parker wasnt satisfied and shot Michelle in the back of her head as she was trying to run for her life. This caused Michelle to fall to the floor where she laid until EMS arrived and attempted to treat her injuries to no avail. Gould presented photos of the crime scene to Judge Letts. One photo showed the area where Marlow was found lying face down in a pool of blood on the floor. Another photo was of Marlow and the gunshot wound to her head. Tangela Parker used a Smith and Wesson Model 686 .357 Magnum revolver. The gun was exhibited during Goulds presentation. Following the shooting, Tangelas husband Eric Parker approached Tangela, took the gun and walked her to the car, Gould said. Eric Parker was a supervisor at TCS Designs. The couple fled the scene and were on the run for six months. Gould said the Parkers assumed fictitious names and placed a stolen license place on their car. The couple was eventually captured in Phoenix, Arizona. The Parkers were working for cash at a ranch in Arizona when they were located by authorities, Gould said. Jayne said the reason the Parkers were found was because Tangela decided to turn herself in and called her family. Gould said that was not accurate. Jayne called two professionals to the stand to speak about Tangela Parkers state of mind during the murder. These professionals were psychiatrist George Corvin and neuropharmacologist Wilkie Wilson. Jayne said Tangela was taking Xanax at the time of the shooting. Corvin said Tangela told him she took more Xanax than she was prescribed in the weeks leading up to the murder. The defense argued that Tangela was in a dissociative state of mind at the time of the murder due to the Xanax. Since I have represented (Tangela Parker) and had her evaluated by a number of different mental health professionals, she has consistently said that she has no memory of the shooting, Jayne said. (Tangela Parker) has no memory from around lunchtime that day, until around the next day when her husband says that she woke up finally and he told her what happened. Tangelas husband Eric Carroll Parker is charged with felony accessory after the fact, according to court documents. Eric Parkers next court hearing is scheduled for Dec. 4. A woman who shot and killed her coworker at a Hickory furniture plant has pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in Catawba County Superior Court. Tangela Parker, 52, of Taylorsville entered the guilty plea on Thursday in the shooting death of 51-year-old Phelifia Michelle Marlow. Marlow was shot twice at TCS Designs in Hickory on Jan. 13, 2021. She died later that day, according to court documents. Parker and Marlow were coworkers. Parker was originally charged with felony murder. Tangelas husband Eric Carroll Parker is charged with felony accessory after the fact, according to court documents. Following the shooting, the Parkers evaded arrest for six months before being apprehended in Phoenix, Arizona, according to court documents. Parker had not been sentenced as of noon today. HICKORY An HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) College Fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30, at Highland Recreation Center, 1451 Eighth St. Drive, NE, in Hickory. Alexis Hunt, an admissions counselor at Winston-Salem State University, is hosting the free event, which is open to individuals of all ages and ethnic backgrounds. Hunt asks that high school seniors bring multiple copies of their official and/or unofficial transcripts for the universities that will be providing on-site admissions decisions. Registration is not required to attend the college fair. HBCUs registered to participate as of Sept. 22 included: Winston Salem State University North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University Elizabeth City State University Johnson C. Smith University St. Augustine University Delaware State University Morgan State University Virginia State University Jackson State University Edward Waters University Hampton University Claflin University Florida A&M University Voorhees University South Carolina State University Livingstone College The College Foundation of North Carolina will also be in attendance to discuss how to plan for college, how to apply to college, and how to pay for college through the financial aid process. Parents or students who need more information may call Alexis Hunt at 336-750-8815 or 743-649-0379. When Watts Auman, beloved community and political leader in Moore County, died at 84 on Sept. 17, I knew that I would have to write about him. But there is a problem. Whenever I have written about Watts in the past, the column turned out to be more about me than him. There is a reason. My connection with Watts and the lessons I learned from and with him have been important, perhaps life changing. So, I cannot write about Watts without trying to explain how much I learned because of him. When I first arrived at Fort Bragg (now Fort Liberty) in late 1963 and was being taken around to see the important places that airborne troops need to know, I learned that my Davidson College friend Watts Auman was commanding a team of airborne riggers. As paratroopers know, riggers are among the most important people in airborne. They pack the parachutes, new and used, and get them ready for use. A mistake could lead to a tragedy. Watts and the people under his command regularly made airplane jumps using the parachutes that they had prepared. Wattss quiet leadership made him a perfect commander of these riggers. For a short time, Watts and I lived with seven other junior officers in a house at 1805 Bragg Boulevard in Fayetteville. But soon Watts completed his service and returned to the family farm near West End in Moore County. Meanwhile, I was assigned to an intelligence detachment of the Special Forces. One of my first assignments was to participate in the war games in the area known as Swift Strike as an underground spy in Moore County. Watts and his parents let me live with them for several weeks and pretend to be a part of their family. One of the first things I saw in the Auman home was a plug of chewing tobacco encased in plastic and sitting in a prominent place on the coffee table in their living room. What in the world it that? I asked. That was Kerr Scotts favorite chewing tobacco, Wattss mother explained. Terry Sanford, who ran Scotts campaign for the U.S. Senate in 1954, sent tobacco plugs to the key campaign workers like Clyde Auman, Wattss father. He had been Kerr Scotts county chair and was now campaigning for a seat in the North Carolina House. I learned how much struggling farmers appreciated the roads and services that Kerr Scott had pushed through while governor. Watts led me around the farm. Although the Aumans were best known for peaches, they also farmed other crops. He showed me how to string tobacco, take it down, bind it up, and send it to market. I watched as Watts worked with the farm workers. Always quiet and respectful, but he was also demanding. It was clear that Watts had earned their respect. One day, Watts and I took a small crop of field peas to the Farmers Market in Raleigh, selling them for almost enough to cover the cost of the gas it took to get there. Clyde Auman let me follow him around from event to event as he campaigned for the legislature. Like Watts, Clyde Auman was quiet and modest in a winning way. But that modesty made it a challenge to create campaign materials. Even though Moore County was still Democratic, a candidate had to be careful to appeal to traditional Republicans in the northern part of the county and to conservatives in Pinehurst and Southern Pines. But our candidate was slow to brag. In those few weeks in the Auman home, I learned more about farming and politics and the strength of humility than I did about spying. Watts leaves hundreds, maybe thousands, of Auman kin across the state and region, almost all sharing Wattss commitment to community, especially his sisters Nancy Cunningham and Laura Pitts and his brother Bob. Without Bobs suggestions for column topics and his careful reading and correction of drafts, I could not continue writing this column. For Wattss friendship and example and for my connection to his family, I will always be grateful. Episode 109: A competitive race for a seat in the Virginia House of Delegates has been in the spotlight since it was revealed that the Democratic candidate, Susanna Gibson, had streamed sex acts with her husband. As first reported by The Washington Post, the couple appeared on the website Chaturbate, on which they urged viewers to give the couple tips to perform certain crowd-sourced requests. Gibson, whose full-time job is working as a nurse practitioner, said the exposure of the content is an illegal invasion of my privacy and designed to humiliate me and my family. Hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada discuss whether this was a legitimate news story, whether the issue should matter to voters and how whether it showed poor judgment by the candidate. About the hosts: Scott Rada is social media manager with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wis. His forthcoming book, "Finding Your Third Place," will be published by Fulcrum Books. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Dr. James Earhart Honored With Dedication Of Hospital CT Suite Hospital Rededicated to Drs. Grant, Buie... Dr. James Earhart was honored Thursday, September 21, at a ceremony dedicating the new Dr. James M. Earhart CT Suite at Hill Regional Hospital. This updated machine utilizing the latest technology is now being used for diagnostic testing. Dr. Earhart was chosen as the naming physician for his many years of service to the Hill County area through his private practice, his service to Hill Regional Hospital and his many volunteer projects. Dr. Earhart is board certified in family medicine by the American Board of Family Medicine. In addition to his clinic practice, he serves as a hospitalist at Hill Regional Hospital. Throughout his career, he has consistently advocated for local healthcare. Dr. Earhart actively participates in community initiatives, including involvement with his church as a band member and volunteering at the Mission Hillsboro Medical Clinic, which offers free care to residents of Hill County. For the complete story, see the Thursday, September 28, edition of The Reporter Newspaper. Torture wasn't legal in England, but James made a special exception for Fawkes' questioning. Fawkes held up for two days, submitting himself to excruciating pain, before confessing and naming his co-plotters. When he signed the confession, his signature was crudely formed, suggesting that the torture had left him little control over his limbs and digits. Fawkes was sentenced to a traitor's death, meaning that he'd be hanged, drawn and quartered (dragged by a horse to the gallows, hanged almost to the point of death, then taken down to have his testicles, bowels and head removed, his body effectively being cut into four quarters). Fawkes wasn't having it. At the gallows, he leaped to the ground and broke his neck. As for the rest of the crew, they were also executed on Jan. 30 and 31, 1606. Advertisement Nothing really changed for the Catholics. They kept carrying on quietly, and some historians suspect they'd have been worse off if the Gunpowder Plotters had succeeded. Catholic extremists only made their fellow countrymen more suspicious of the religion and its adherents. As for those fellow countrymen, they're still celebrating the king's spared life. Every year on Nov. 5, the date when the Gunpowder Plot was foiled, the British light bonfires and raucously cheer on the health of the nation. The celebration, interchangeably called Guy Fawkes Day, Guy Fawkes Night and Bonfire Night is no longer anti-Catholic. While people used to burn effigies of Fawkes and the pope, it's more common now to burn effigies of celebrities and politicians. Fawkes lives on as a near-mythic figure. He's come to symbolize anti-authority movements and indubitably takes top billing in the Gunpowder Plot story, despite his role as a supporting cast member. Now Thats Interesting While Guy Fawkes didnt spearhead the Gunpowder Plot, hes the most notorious of the crew behind it. Despite a year-and-a-half of careful gunpowder sourcing and strategy, Fawkes was ultimately given up by a member of the faith he was working to restore to power. " " Conspirators in the Gunpowder Plot were sentenced to being hanged, drawn and quartered, though historians say the practice of tying limbs to four horses and spurring them to run in four different directions was never done in England. Instead, bodies were quartered after death. Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images Let's say you're the king of England in the 13th century. You enjoy absolute power and authority, but only if you can keep your grip on the throne, and there are all sorts of plotting pretenders and rebellious radicals keen on toppling your reign and seeing you dead. So, what can you do to scare them off? You can't post a bunch of threatening Tweets (heck, the printing press is still a few centuries away). But maybe, just maybe, you can devise a form of punishment so twisted and sadistic that only a lunatic would even entertain the thought of committing high treason. Advertisement " " William Wallace (immortalized in the movie "Braveheart") is dragged (or "drawn") to his execution at Smithfield where he will be hanged, disemboweled and quartered, in 1305. Culture Club/Getty Images That's how historians believe medieval monarchs came up with the wildly violent execution method known as hanging, drawing and quartering. If you've seen the film "Braveheart," then you've had a (nauseating) taste of just how torturous and cruel the practice was. The Scottish rebel William Wallace was hanged, drawn and quartered in 1305 (accused of being a traitor to King Edward I) and in the movie we see him disemboweled his abdomen cut open and his intestines removed while still very much alive. And that was only one part of the ordeal! From the 13th century all the way until the 19th century, hundreds of Englishmen convicted of high treason were sentenced to die by this very public and grisly display of absolute power, including rebels like Wallace, political terrorists like Guy Fawkes and Catholic martyrs who refused to recognize the authority of the Church of England. Saint James The Greater barbecue Saint James The Greater 69th Parish barbecue will be held Wednesday, Oct. 4, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. People may dine in or take out. To order ahead of time on the day of the event, call 704-720-0600, ext. 24. The church is located at 139 Manor Ave. SW, Concord. Book about Pearl E. Asbury The author of Pearls Kaleidoscope, Reflections of a 95-year-old African American Womans Life will be holding a book signing in Concord. The book signing will be Sunday, Oct. 8, at 3 p.m. at The Allen Small Family Life Center at Price Memorial AME Zion Church, 192 Spring St. SW, Concord. It is a story of an inspiring woman who defied the odds. Pearls son, Calvin L. Asbury, wrote the book about his mothers life from growing up in rural North Carolina. It details her life from the loss of her mother at age 7, a teen pregnancy and across the Civil Rights Movement and the many things that happened during her life. The book is available on Amazon. Community breakfast at Cold Springs A Community Breakfast at Cold Springs Global Methodist Church, and sponsored by Methodist Men at 2550 Cold Springs Road, Concord, is offered on the first Saturday of each month from 7-10 a.m. The next breakfast is Saturday, Oct. 7. Market for Mission benefits Haitian children The Market for Mission from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7, at First Presbyterian Church, 65 Church St., NE, Concord. The biennial market sale to benefit a Haitian children's charity returns with 1,000s lightly used, brand new and vintage items. Included are antiques and collectibles, home and seasonal decor, artwork, furniture, rugs, lamps, toys, sports items, jewelry, handbags, soes, kitchen and glassware, linens and baby equipment. New Global Methodist church in Concord Grace Church Concord, a Global Methodist Community, will be having a Consecration Service of its new worship center on Sunday, Oct. 8, at 10 a.m. Grace Church Concord is at 28-B Branchview Dr NE, Concord. For more information, please visit www.graceconcord.org, email info@graceconcord.org, or find the church on social media, #graceonfire Center UMC's chicken BBQ dinner Center United Methodist Church will hold it's annual Chicken BBQ on Saturday, Oct. 7, from 4 until 7 p.m. The cost is $12.00 per plate, dine in or carry out. Center UMC is located at 1119 Union Street S, Concord, NC Call 704-782-1785 for details. The Bulb Market: Fresh produce and more The Bulb Market at Grace Lutheran Church is open every Friday from 3-4 p.m. with fresh produce for the community. Cabarrus Rowan Community Health Center will be offering primary care and basic health screenings on-site at the church on the second Friday of each month. Grace Lutheran is located at 58 Chestnut Drive, Concord. A summer of fitness Revelation Fitness is at Grace Lutheran Church on Mondays this summer from 6-7 p.m. Led by Revelation Wellness certified instructors Stephanie Flowe and Rebecca Hoover, Revelation Fitness combines tabata, drumstick cardio and circuit work with the word of God to create an atmosphere of acceptance and community, moving our bodies in joy, not perfection. Ages 10 and older, of all fitness levels, are welcome. Bring water, hand weights, drumsticks and a mat (all are available if needed). There is no cost, but donations to Grace Lutheran Church health ministry are accepted. For more information, call Rebecca Hoover, faith community nurse, at 980-721-4321. Grace Lutheran is located at 58 Chestnut Drive, Concord. Griefshare support group If you need help and encouragement after the death of a spouse, child, family member or friend, you are invited to join us for a Griefshare support group at Pitts Baptist Church, 140 Pitts School Road NW, Concord, weekly on Tuesdays through Oct. 31, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. For more information, call Linda Bounds at 704-793-8155. Homecoming and revival Pastor Richie Honeycutt will preach at the Franklin Heights Baptist Church homecoming and revival. The church is at 526 Wright Road, Kannapolis. Homecoming will be held Sunday, Oct. 15, at 10:30 a.m. A meal will follow the worship service. Revival will start with additional meetings Sunday at 6 p.m. and continue Monday, Oct. 16 through Wednesday, Oct. 18, at 7 p.m. A hot dog meal will also be provided on Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. Honeycutt is the pastor at Faith Baptist Church in Iron Station. Barbecue chicken dinner On Saturday, October 21st, New Gilead Reformed Church will have a BBQ Chicken Dinner fundraiser from 11 a.m. until sold out on Saturday, Oct. 21. It will be dine in or carryout. The church is located at 2400 Old Salisbury-Concord Road, Concord. A plate includes: half BBQ Chicken, beans, slaw, roll, chips, drink, and dessert for $11. A whole chicken is $9 and a quart of slaw is $5. With National Breast Cancer Awareness Month right around the corner, NASCAR Cup Series drivers Kurt Busch, Erik Jones and Bubba Wallace joined 60 breast cancer survivors and supporters, as well as officials from Charlotte Motor Speedway and Blue Cross NC in painting the famed race tracks pit wall pink on Tuesday. The event, which was also attended by NASCAR Xfinity Series drivers Daniel Hemric, Carson Hocevar, Kyle Weatherman and Bayley Currey, serves as a prelude to the Oct. 7 running of the Xfinity Series Drive for the Cure 250 presented by Blue Cross NC. Now in its 11th year, Paint Pit Wall Pink has become an annual event to celebrate survivors, provide hope for those battling breast cancer and raise awareness of the importance of early detection. Every woman in North Carolina deserves the opportunity to be healthy. Thats why education on early breast cancer detection is so critical, said Tammy Jones, vice president of Brand and Demand Generation at Blue Cross NC. Blue Cross NC is committed to increasing breast cancer awareness across the state through efforts like Paint the Wall Pink and Drive for the Cure 250. Charlotte Motor Speedway Executive Vice President and General Manager Greg Walter joined the survivors, drivers and volunteers in using 150 paint rollers and brushes and 50 gallons of paint courtesy of Sherwin Williams to cover much of the 4,000-square-foot pit road wall. This is one of the most memorable days of the year for us at Charlotte Motor Speedway because its about so much more than motorsports, said Walter. To see the faces of those who have fought their battles and won, to hear stories of perseverance and encouragement for those currently fighting, and to use our platform to raise awareness to truly a noble cause. Were grateful for a tremendous partnership with Blue Cross NC, and the opportunity to be involved in such a meaningful and impactful event. The event also featured a special unveil of two Toyota pace car designs inspired by the stories of breast cancer survivors Patrice Bidgood and Destiney Medlin for the Drive for the Cure 250 race on Oct. 7. Fans can visit dftc250pacecar.com to vote for their favorite livery. The winning design will be displayed on the car during pace laps before the Drive for the Cure 250. While Busch announced his retirement from Cup Series racing earlier this year, his Window of Hope program will continue on with LEGACY MOTOR CLUB driver Erik Jones and the Erik Jones Foundation leading the charge, the two announced during Tuesdays event. From the very beginning, the NASCAR industry supported us, and I am thankful for their continued support as we enter year three, said Busch. This program has become something I look forward to every year and I am grateful for the opportunity to bring in the Erik Jones Foundation to help continue to give it life for years to come. After learning more about what motivates Eriks foundations cancer efforts, I felt a partnership with him was a natural evolution of the program. I am thrilled about this partnership and confident Eriks personal commitment to cancer detection and care will grow this program and positively impact his cancer efforts. Following the Oct. 8 Bank of America ROVAL 400, participating drivers will sign their window net to be auctioned through The Erik Jones Foundation, which will receive the proceeds to then be donated to multiple beneficiaries to support early cancer detection. The Erik Jones Foundation was established in part to encourage early cancer detection and care, a cause significant to Jones, who has had multiple family members battle cancer. Im glad Kurt reached out and suggested my foundation continue this important effort, said Jones. Fighting cancer is a very personal issue for me and my foundation. Many folks know that my father died of cancer, but most dont know my mother is a breast cancer survivor. Everyone involved in my foundation, including my mom, is excited to add a breast cancer component to our efforts. We look forward to building on the legacy Kurt has laid with this program. For tickets to the races To purchase Drive for the Cure 250 and Bank of America ROVAL 400 race tickets, fans can shop online at www.charlottemotorspeedway.com or call 800-455-FANS (3267). Kids ages 12 and younger get in all weekend for just $10. Tickets also include access to any of three nights of A-list music acts, including concerts by Tim Dugger on Friday, Oct. 6; cover band Alter Ego on Saturday, Oct. 7; and an infield pre-race concert with country superstar Riley Green prior to Sundays Bank of America ROVAL 400. All Peoples Church of Jesus Christ Worship at 11 a.m. Sunday at American Legion Post 172. Pastor: Prophet Roland Jordan. Sermon: Confidence: I Confess My Sins to Jesus Christ. Let the People Know, Praise God, We Are Only Human. Praise God. Scriptures 1 John 1:8-9. Ann Street United Methodist Church 335 Ann St., Concord. Pastor: Rev. Randy L. Wall. In person and Facebook Live worship at 11 a.m. Sermon: Whats Right with the Church: Hypocrites? Scripture: Luke 16:1-13. Bethpage United Methodist Church 109 Fellowship Ave. at West C St., Kannapolis. 704-932-5296. Pastor: Rev. McKenzie Sefa. Christian Education at 9 a.m. Worship at 10 a.m. Bogers Chapel United Methodist Church 1775 Flowes Store Road E., Concord. Pastor: Eric Shaver. 9 a.m. Sunday school. 10 a.m. Worship Service (Outside service). Blessing of the Pets Service. Scripture Reading: Genesis 1. Calvary Lutheran Church 950 Bradley St., Concord. 704-782-6923. Pastor: Rev. Debbie Frye. Outdoor in-person worship at 8:30 a.m. (Outdoor Chapel) and 11 a.m. (Traditional Worship with Childrens Church). Coffee/Cookie Social from 9:30-11 a.m. Sunday School for all ages at 9:45 a.m. Childrens Area and Nursery available at all times. All services livestreamed and available anytime on the Calvary Lutheran Concord Youtube channel easy access through our website http://www.clconcord.org or church app Calvary Lutheran Church NC. All are welcome. Sermon Series: Is Your God Big Enough? Center United Methodist Church 1119 Union St. S., Concord. Pastor: Rev. Brian Crady. Sunday school for In Betweens and young adults at 9 a.m. Worship at 10 a.m. Nursery is provided during the worship service. Website is www.centerumcconcord.org. Look forward to you joining us for our service! Sermon: The Saving Power of The Sacrificed Lambs Blood. Scripture: Exodus 12:1-3, 7-8, 11-14S. Cold Springs Global Methodist Church 2550 Cold Springs Road, Concord. Pastor: Rev. Cliff Wall. Worship at 10 a.m. on Sundays. Visit online at https://youtube.com/@coldspringschurchconcord. Crossroads Church 220 George W. Liles Parkway, Concord. Pastor: Lowell McNaney. Live worship streamed on Facebook, Crossroads Concord Church app or mycrossroads.co website at 9:30 a.m. and 11:11 a.m. Crown Pointe Baptist Church 703 Tennessee St., Kannapolis. Pastor: Rev. Doug Crawley. Sunday school at 9 a.m. Worship at 10 a.m. in the sanctuary, or view online at our Facebook page. Series: Revival: Stronger Than Ever. Sermon: Increasing Gods Power in Your Life (Week Three). Scripture: II Chronicles 14-16 ESV. Eastside Missionary Baptist Church 199 Elgin Drive, Concord. Pastor: Rev. Stephen Burrow. In person services: Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. Worship services at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Recorded worship services and other information at EastsideMissionaryBaptist.org. You will be welcomed. Practice social distancing. Epworth United Methodist Church 1030 Burrage Road NE, Concord. Pastor: Rev. Dennis Marshall. Sunday school at 9 a.m., followed by worship at 10 a.m. We welcome all to join us in person, or you may livestream or watch the recorded service at our website at www.epworthnc.com. Forest Hill United Methodist Church 265 Union St. N., Concord. Senior pastor: Rev. Mandy Jones. Associate pastor: Rev. Wes Judy. We are open for in-person worship. Contemporary worship at 9 a.m. Sunday school/small groups at 10 a.m. Traditional worship at 11 a.m. Both the contemporary and the traditional worship services will also be livestreamed at foresthillumc.org or facebook.com/foresthillumc. Harmony United Methodist Church 101 White St. NW, Concord. Pastor: Rev. Thad Brown. Sunday school is at 10 a.m. followed by our worship service in the sanctuary at 11 a.m. Sermon: We are The Children of The Resurrection. Scripture: I John 3:1; John 1:12-13; Romans 8:14-17; I John 3:1; John 15:18; John 15:21; John 16:3; I John 3:2-3; Matthew 5:8; Matthew 5:10; Luke 20:26. We welcome you to join us in worship! Service of Holy Communion. Service is live on Facebook.com/HarmonyUnitedMethodistChurch. We welcome all who are unable to join us in person to worship with us online. For more information, call the pastor at 704-791-2883 or the church at 704-782-8237. Jackson Park United Methodist Church 715 Mable Ave., Kannapolis. Pastor: Laurie Knoespel. Adult Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. Worship at 10:30 a.m. Nursery will be provided during worship service. Kirkwood Presbyterian Church 900 Klondale Ave., Kannapolis. Pastor: Rev. Dennis B. Craft. Worship at 11 a.m. in church sanctuary on Sundays. No mask restrictions. McGill Baptist Church 5300 Poplar Tent Road, Concord, in-person services. Pastor: Rev. Steve Ayers. McGill will stream a worship service Sunday at 10 a.m. on www.facebook.com/mcgillbaptistchurch/ and on YouTube. The services will be live and also available on recording afterward. Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost. World Communion Sunday. Sermon: On Whose Authority. Scripture: Psalm 78:1-4, 12-16; Philippians 2:1-13; Matthew 21:23-32. Midway United Methodist Church 108 Bethpage Road, Kannapolis. Pastor: Rev. Craig Allen. Come join us on Sunday morning at 9 a.m. for Sunday school and 10:30 a.m. for worship. Our service is also livestreamed on the web at midwayunitedmethodistchurch.org or facebook.com/midwayUMC. Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost. World Communion Sunday. Sermon: With Fear and Trembling. First Reading: Psalm 78:1-4, 12-16. Second Reading: Philippians 2:1-13. Suggested Hymns: TFWS 2088, Lord, I Lift Your Name on High; UMH 536, Precious Name. Mt. Mitchell United Methodist Church 6001 Old Salisbury-Concord Road, Kannapolis. Pastor: Joel Locklear. Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. (Adult and Children classes.) Worship at 11 a.m. in person or Facebook. Holy Communion Sunday (We will serve Holy Communion after the sermon). Sermon: Selfishness. Scripture: Philippians 2:1-13. Multiply Church Concord 150 Warren C. Coleman Blvd. N., Concord. Pastor: Rev. Douglas Witherup. 8:30 a.m. service held at 280 Concord Parkway S., Suite 15, Concord. Services at 150 Warren C. Coleman Blvd. N. are worship and sermon at 9:30 a.m. and worship and sermon at 11:15 a.m. New Gilead Reformed Church, ECO 2400 Old Salisbury-Concord Road. 9:40 a.m. Adult Bible Study. 10 a.m. Sunday school. 11 a.m.Worship in the Sanctuary, also live on Facebook. Oak Grove Baptist Church 200 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg. Pastor: Rev. Franklin D. Watkins. 10 a.m. In-person worship service and Facebook Live and YouTube Live. Second Presbyterian Church 1578 Dale Earnhardt Blvd., Kannapolis. Pastor Sue Black, minister. Rev. Aaron Price, assistant pastor. Sunday school at 10 a.m. Worship at 11 a.m. St. Johns Reformed Church 901 N. Main St., Kannapolis. Pastor: Rev. Chris King. Sunday school for all ages at 9:30 a.m. Worship service at 10:30 a.m. Website: www.ourstjohns.org. Email/phone: ourstjohns@gmail.com / 704-932-3656. Sermon: The Need for Living Water. Scripture: John 7:37-39. Trinity United Church of Christ 38 Church St., Concord. Pastor: Rev. Nathan King. Worship at 11 a.m., in person or Facebook Live. Website: commachurch.com. Youre invited! Toyota Motor plans to build a third car plant in India, expanding production capacity in the country for the first time in over a decade as its partnership withboosts domestic volumes, two sources said. The world's biggest carmaker wants the plant to start with a capacity of 80,000-120,000 vehicles a year, which could grow to around 200,000 over time, said one of the people who has direct knowledge of the plans.The plant's proposed initial capacity would expand Toyota's existing manufacturing capacity in India by as much as 30% from 400,000 units currently. Toyota has also begun development of a new sport utility vehicle (SUV) for the Indian market that would be launched in early 2026 and be an anchor product for the new factory , said the person and a third source briefed on the company's plans.The sources declined to be identified as the automaker has not disclosed the expansion plans. A representative for Toyota's India unit declined to comment. Toyota's India sales have soared due to a global partnership with Suzuki, under which the two Japanese car makers take some vehicles originally developed by their partner, then tweak and sell under their own brands to fill out their product line-up.Cars originally from Maruti Suzuki's stable, such as the Glanza hatchback and Urban Cruiser Hyryder SUV, now account for 40% of Toyota's India sales. About two-thirds of Toyota's current production capacity is used by Maruti Suzuki to build vehicles for both car makers as part of their partnership. Toyota, known for its Fortuner SUV and Camry hybrid in India, told Reuters earlier in September it expects record domestic sales in 2023. The Japanese carmaker is now aiming to have a production capacity of 500,000 vehicles per year before the end of the decade, including the car models it will supply to Suzuki. Two-thirds of the worlds biggest companies with net-zero targets are using carbon offsets to help meet their climate goals, Carbon Brief analysis reveals. (Clicking links with a will display the full glossary term.) The worlds top fossil-fuel producers, carmakers and tech firms have used tens of millions of carbon credits to claim they have cancelled out large chunks of their emissions in recent years, the analysis shows. Carbon Brief finds that just 34 companies have used credits to offset 38m tonnes of carbon dioxide (MtCO2) during 2020-2022, equivalent to the annual emissions of Ethiopia and Kenya combined. The top users of carbon credits units each representing one tonne of CO2 avoided, reduced or removed were Shell (9.9m units), Volkswagen (9.6m) and Chevron (6.0m). In theory, credits represent emissions savings undertaken on behalf of the buyer typically, by supporting renewable energy or forest-protection schemes. In practice, many projects have failed to deliver. Campaigners say the rapidly growing trade is a cheap alternative to real carbon cuts that provides the biggest emitters with a licence to pollute. Carbon Briefs analysis of the worlds top 50 companies with net-zero targets by market capitalisation sheds new light on the often-opaque world of carbon credits. Indeed, the analysis shows there is no public information at all on the users of half the credits bought from the top four voluntary offset registries. Other key findings include: Fossil-fuel companies and car manufacturers were responsible for more than three-quarters of the offsets used by the top 50 companies. Projects in Indonesia (9.2m offset credits), China (6m) and Colombia (5.8m) provided the most offsets. The single-largest provider was the Katingan peatland project in Indonesia, which generated 5.4m offsets for these companies in theory, the equivalent of taking 2m cars off the road. Only 8% of the offsets used were from projects that removed CO2 from the atmosphere predominantly tree-planting. Half of the offsets were from REDD+ forest protection projects. A growing body of evidence suggests these projects often overstate their climate impact. Offset surge Businesses, organisations and even individuals can purchase carbon credits on the voluntary offset market. Each represents one tonne of CO2 that has in theory, at least been reduced or removed from the atmosphere elsewhere, by a project such as a windfarm or a preserved forest. Companies then claim these cuts as their own and use them to offset their emissions as they work towards self-assigned climate targets for example, to become net-zero or carbon-neutral by a fixed date. There has been a surge in voluntary offset purchases in recent years, coinciding with societal and political pressure on corporations to decarbonise. In total, 146m credits were retired meaning they were used from the four largest registries in 2022, more than double the volume just three years earlier. At the same time, concerns have been raised by activists and scientists that offsets are providing a cheap alternative to climate action, while delivering negligible emissions cuts. To understand how major companies are employing offsets, Carbon Brief used Net Zero Tracker to identify the top 50 publicly listed companies, by revenue, that have set themselves net-zero or similar goals. Some 28 have explicitly stated their intention to use offsets, but others use them too, the analysis shows. Carbon Brief then combined data from three sources to investigate how many offsets have been used by these companies between 2020 and 2022. This draws on a methodology developed by Prof Gregory Trencher, an energy policy researcher at Kyoto University, and colleagues, for a study of offsetting behaviour by four oil majors. (See: Methodology.) The analysis relied on these alternative data sources because there are significant gaps in the public information available from the registries that issue carbon credits, after going through a process of verification. (See: Missing data.) Overall, Carbon Brief identified 37.8m carbon offsets that were used by 34 of the top 50 businesses to help meet their climate targets. This equates to approximately 5% of the credits on the voluntary market that were used across this three-year period. Half of the offsets identified in this analysis were used by fossil-fuel companies, primarily Shell and Chevron, and 28% by car companies, particularly Volkswagen. (The true numbers of offsets could be larger as the analysis firm AlliedOffsets one of the data sources Carbon Brief has used notes that it is not able to identify buyers in registry transactions that are completely anonymous for the public. For example, oil major Saudi Aramco which does not appear in this analysis, is aiming to use 16m carbon offsets annually by 2035 and has already been investing in offsets. This is explained further in the Missing data and Methodology sections below.) Sourcing offsets The Sankey diagram below shows how offsets have flowed from projects around the world into the balance sheets of these 34 major companies. Where companies buy offsets from Millions of carbon-offset credits, each equivalent to 1t CO2 No country (0.519m) No country (0.519m) BMW (0.871m) BMW (0.871m) BNP Paribas (0.554m) BNP Paribas (0.554m) Deutsche Telekom AG (0.003m) Deutsche Telekom AG (0.003m) General Motors Company (0.016m) General Motors Company (0.016m) Australia (< 0.001m) Australia (< 0.001m) Microsoft (1.16m) Microsoft (1.16m) Belize (0.04m) Belize (0.04m) AXA (0.927m) AXA (0.927m) Brazil (0.202m) Brazil (0.202m) Allianz (0.542m) Allianz (0.542m) Alphabet (0.181m) Alphabet (0.181m) Amazon (< 0.001m) Amazon (< 0.001m) Peugeot (< 0.001m) Peugeot (< 0.001m) Samsung (0.154m) Samsung (0.154m) Shell (9.88m) Shell (9.88m) TotalEnergies (0.868m) TotalEnergies (0.868m) Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico and Kenya (0.1m) Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico and Kenya (0.1m) Comcast (3.217m) Comcast (3.217m) Bulgaria (0.39m) Bulgaria (0.39m) Cambodia (0.099m) Cambodia (0.099m) Chevron (6.019m) Chevron (6.019m) ITOCHU ENEX CO (< 0.001m) ITOCHU ENEX CO (< 0.001m) Canada (0.216m) Canada (0.216m) JP Morgan Chase (0.254m) JP Morgan Chase (0.254m) Chile (0.019m) Chile (0.019m) BP (0.027m) BP (0.027m) Walmart (0.002m) Walmart (0.002m) China (6.017m) China (6.017m) Apple (0.737m) Apple (0.737m) China State Construction (0.018m) China State Construction (0.018m) Exxon Mobil (< 0.001m) Exxon Mobil (< 0.001m) Hyundai (< 0.001m) Hyundai (< 0.001m) Mitsubishi (0.041m) Mitsubishi (0.041m) PetroChina (1.981m) PetroChina (1.981m) Sinopec Nanjing (0.007m) Sinopec Nanjing (0.007m) Volkswagen (9.607m) Volkswagen (9.607m) Colombia (5.845m) Colombia (5.845m) Cote d'Ivoire (0.074m) Cote d'Ivoire (0.074m) Finland (< 0.001m) Finland (< 0.001m) Germany (0.001m) Germany (0.001m) Ghana (0.026m) Ghana (0.026m) Guatemala (0.667m) Guatemala (0.667m) India (3.476m) India (3.476m) Daimler (0.024m) Daimler (0.024m) Indonesia (9.256m) Indonesia (9.256m) Bank of America (0.67m) Bank of America (0.67m) Japan (0.041m) Japan (0.041m) Kenya (1.175m) Kenya (1.175m) Kenya/Uganda (0.08m) Kenya/Uganda (0.08m) Laos (< 0.001m) Laos (< 0.001m) Mexico (0.004m) Mexico (0.004m) Myanmar (< 0.001m) Myanmar (< 0.001m) Nepal (0.079m) Nepal (0.079m) Nicaragua (0.01m) Nicaragua (0.01m) Norway (< 0.001m) Norway (< 0.001m) Oman (0.139m) Oman (0.139m) Pakistan (0.01m) Pakistan (0.01m) Panama (0.002m) Panama (0.002m) Peru (5.116m) Peru (5.116m) Target (0.016m) Target (0.016m) Toyota (< 0.001m) Toyota (< 0.001m) Philippines (0.002m) Philippines (0.002m) Rwanda (0.001m) Rwanda (0.001m) Rwanda/Nepal (0.741m) Rwanda/Nepal (0.741m) Senegal (0.1m) Senegal (0.1m) Sierra Leone (0.001m) Sierra Leone (0.001m) Sudan (< 0.001m) Sudan (< 0.001m) Taiwan (0.255m) Taiwan (0.255m) Tanzania (0.2m) Tanzania (0.2m) Turkey (0.124m) Turkey (0.124m) Uganda (< 0.001m) Uganda (< 0.001m) UK (0.014m) UK (0.014m) Uruguay (< 0.001m) Uruguay (< 0.001m) Dell (< 0.001m) Dell (< 0.001m) US (1.36m) US (1.36m) Anthem (0.012m) Anthem (0.012m) AT&T (0.002m) AT&T (0.002m) UnitedHealth (0.016m) UnitedHealth (0.016m) Zambia (0.099m) Zambia (0.099m) Zimbabwe (1.307m) Zimbabwe (1.307m) Total volume of carbon offsets retired by the top 50 companies, by revenue, with net-zero targets between 2020 and 2022 (left). The provider countries where the source offsetting projects are based are on the right, with the lines indicating the scale and flow of offsets between these source nations and companies. Sources: AlliedOffsets, CDP, Trencher et al. (2023), Net Zero Tracker. The majority of the companies analysed 41 in total are based in developed countries, with nearly all of the remainder based in China. Yet 35.2m of the 37.8m credits they have used are from projects in developing countries, particularly Indonesia, China and Colombia. (The remainder includes 2m credits from developed countries and around 520,000 where the country of origin could not be identified.) Carbon offsets are often framed as a way to channel private climate finance to the global south by their supporters, including leaders from those countries. However, numerous allegations of harm to local people and global-north companies taking large cuts of the profits have led many to critique offsetting as a damaging and even neo-colonial venture. Some of the biggest offset-generating countries in this analysis have faced considerable problems related to these projects. In Peru, there have been allegations of exaggerated emissions cuts and displaced communities, Indigenous ways of life have been allegedly harmed in Kenya and the government of Zimbabwe has argued that the state is not benefiting from offset projects on its soil. (See: Mapped: The impacts of carbon-offset projects around the world.) Nearly all of the offset use in Colombia is due to the fossil-fuel company Chevron, which has a long history of oil-and-gas exploration in the nation. This analysis shows that the firm retired 5.8m offset credits from Colombian projects between 2020 and 2022. A recent investigation by the NGO Corporate Accountability concluded that at least 93% of credits used by Chevron in 2020-2022 including those from Colombian projects identified in this analysis were likely junk. Chevron rejected this allegation, pointing out that most of the offsets in question were compliance-grade offsets accepted by governments in the regions where we operate. (Some businesses buy credits from the voluntary market that can be used to comply with local regulations.) While some of the projects in developing countries are operated by national NGOs and businesses, others are managed by organisations based as far afield as California, Hong Kong and Guernsey. Of the 2m credits generated in developed countries, two-thirds are from projects in the US. These were nearly all sold to US-based companies, such as Microsoft and JP Morgan Chase. Here, too, accusations of problematic offset projects are rife. A Bloomberg investigation in 2020 accused GreenTrees, a company that provides 16% of the US credits retired in this analysis, of taking credit for other peoples trees. (In response, the company pointed out that independent auditors had repeatedly verified that its forestry project abides by the rules set by the American Carbon Registry.) Big projects As the chart below shows, a selection of just nine offset projects, notably the Katingan and Rimba Raya peatland forest projects in Indonesia, have provided a disproportionate amount of the offsets to the major companies analysed by Carbon Brief 19.3m in total. Nine offset projects account for half of the credits used Millions of carbon-offset credits, each equivalent to 1t CO2 Rimba Raya Biodiversity Reserve Project (3.58m) Rimba Raya Biodiversity Reserve Project (3.58m) Allianz (0.54m) Allianz (0.54m) The Kasigau Corridor REDD Project (0.933m) The Kasigau Corridor REDD Project (0.933m) Kariba REDD+ Project (1.307m) Kariba REDD+ Project (1.307m) Alphabet (Google) (< 0.001m) Alphabet (Google) (< 0.001m) Katingan Peatland Conservation Project (5.353m) Katingan Peatland Conservation Project (5.353m) AXA (0.045m) AXA (0.045m) Cordillera Azul National Park REDD Project (4.192m) Cordillera Azul National Park REDD Project (4.192m) Bank of America (0.535m) Bank of America (0.535m) BMW (< 0.001m) BMW (< 0.001m) BNP Paribas (0.006m) BNP Paribas (0.006m) Chevron (2.226m) Chevron (2.226m) Sogamoso Hydroelectric Project (1.266m) Sogamoso Hydroelectric Project (1.266m) Proyecto Hidroelectrico El Quimbo (0.91m) Proyecto Hidroelectrico El Quimbo (0.91m) PetroChina (1.128m) PetroChina (1.128m) Shell (7.497m) Shell (7.497m) Target (0.006m) Target (0.006m) TotalEnergies (0.089m) TotalEnergies (0.089m) Toyota (< 0.001m) Toyota (< 0.001m) 200MW Wind Power Project in Tamil Nadu, Orange Sironj (0.991m) 200MW Wind Power Project in Tamil Nadu, Orange Sironj (0.991m) Volkswagen (7.275m) Volkswagen (7.275m) SB Energy Private Limited solar projects (0.817m) SB Energy Private Limited solar projects (0.817m) Total volume of carbon offsets retired by the top 50 companies, by revenue, with net-zero targets, 2020-2022, from the nine largest offset projects, by credit retirements. AlliedOffsets, CDP, Trencher et al. (2023), Net Zero Tracker. Chart by Tom Pearson for Carbon Brief. Some of these projects, including Katingan, the Cordillera Azul National Park project in Peru and the Kariba forest conservation project in Zimbabwe, have been accused of overstating their emissions reductions. In each case, the project developer has rejected these allegations, emphasising that the methodologies they use are robust. Removals vs reductions Carbon offsets can be issued from a large variety of projects, including solar farms, new forests and cleaner cookstoves for low-income communities. The diagram below shows the offsetting project types favoured by the companies in this analysis. Offsets from REDD+ forest conservation projects are by far the most popular, with 52% of the total. Other major varieties include hydropower, tree-planting and wind power. Types of offset credit used by companies Millions of carbon-offset credits, each equivalent to 1t CO2 Afforestation/Reforestation (3.09m) Afforestation/Reforestation (3.09m) Alphabet (Google) (0.181m) Alphabet (Google) (0.181m) Apple (0.737m) Apple (0.737m) AT&T (0.002m) AT&T (0.002m) AXA (0.927m) AXA (0.927m) Bank of America (0.67m) Bank of America (0.67m) BMW (0.871m) BMW (0.871m) Chevron (6.019m) Chevron (6.019m) Dell (< 0.001m) Dell (< 0.001m) Microsoft (1.16m) Microsoft (1.16m) PetroChina (1.981m) PetroChina (1.981m) Shell (9.88m) Shell (9.88m) Target (0.016m) Target (0.016m) Volkswagen (9.607m) Volkswagen (9.607m) Walmart (0.002m) Walmart (0.002m) Biochar (0.02m) Biochar (0.02m) JP Morgan Chase (0.254m) JP Morgan Chase (0.254m) Biodigesters (0.857m) Biodigesters (0.857m) BNP Paribas (0.554m) BNP Paribas (0.554m) Hyundai (< 0.001m) Hyundai (< 0.001m) TotalEnergies (0.868m) TotalEnergies (0.868m) Biomass (< 0.001m) Biomass (< 0.001m) Carbon Capture & Enhanced Oil Recovery (0.004m) Carbon Capture & Enhanced Oil Recovery (0.004m) Daimler/Mercedes-Benz Group (0.024m) Daimler/Mercedes-Benz Group (0.024m) Clean Cookstoves (0.081m) Clean Cookstoves (0.081m) Allianz (0.542m) Allianz (0.542m) Deutsche Telekom AG (0.003m) Deutsche Telekom AG (0.003m) Clean Water (< 0.001m) Clean Water (< 0.001m) Amazon (< 0.001m) Amazon (< 0.001m) Community Boreholes (0.001m) Community Boreholes (0.001m) Geothermal (0.217m) Geothermal (0.217m) HFC Refrigerant Reclamation (< 0.001m) HFC Refrigerant Reclamation (< 0.001m) Hydropower (3.216m) Hydropower (3.216m) BP (0.027m) BP (0.027m) Sinopec Nanjing (0.007m) Sinopec Nanjing (0.007m) Improved Forest Management (0.847m) Improved Forest Management (0.847m) China State Construction (0.018m) China State Construction (0.018m) Landfill Methane (0.461m) Landfill Methane (0.461m) Comcast (3.217m) Comcast (3.217m) Ozone Depleting Substances Recovery & Destruction (0.003m) Ozone Depleting Substances Recovery & Destruction (0.003m) Renewable Energy (< 0.001m) Renewable Energy (< 0.001m) REDD+ (19.575m) REDD+ (19.575m) ITOCHU ENEX CO (< 0.001m) ITOCHU ENEX CO (< 0.001m) Peugeot/Stellantis (< 0.001m) Peugeot/Stellantis (< 0.001m) Samsung (0.153m) Samsung (0.153m) Toyota (< 0.001m) Toyota (< 0.001m) Rice Emission Reductions (0.399m) Rice Emission Reductions (0.399m) Solar Power (2.215m) Solar Power (2.215m) Sustainable Agriculture (0.008m) Sustainable Agriculture (0.008m) Unknown (4.249m) Unknown (4.249m) General Motors Company (0.016m) General Motors Company (0.016m) Mitsubishi (0.041m) Mitsubishi (0.041m) UnitedHealth (0.016m) UnitedHealth (0.016m) Wetland Restoration (0.01m) Wetland Restoration (0.01m) Wind Power (2.542m) Wind Power (2.542m) ExxonMobil (< 0.001m) ExxonMobil (< 0.001m) Total volume of carbon offsets retired by the top 50 companies, by revenue, with net-zero targets between 2020 and 2022 (left). The type of carbon offset project supplying these companies is indicated on the right, with the lines indicating the scale and flow of offsets between these source nations and companies. Sources: AlliedOffsets, CDP, Trencher et al. (2023), Net Zero Tracker. Chart by Tom Pearson for Carbon Brief. The REDD+ scheme for curbing forest loss and degradation was initially designed under the United Nations (UN) to channel climate finance to forest communities in developing countries. Yet REDD+ projects issuing credits on the voluntary market have come under fire for years from international NGOs and Indigenous groups, who have accused them of links to forced displacements and fraud. There is also a growing body of research suggesting that these projects overstate the volume of emissions they avoid. There have been extensive efforts among academics to identify which types of offset projects can be most reliably tied to real-world emissions reductions. Emissions-removal projects, where CO2 is physically removed from the atmosphere by planting trees, for example, are broadly understood to produce higher quality offsets. These projects are not without risk, as when trees are planted their CO2 removal can be undone if they die or burn down, as has happened at offset projects in the US and Spain. The main alternative is emissions reduction or avoidance. This might involve building wind turbines and calculating the emissions saved in comparison to a counterfactual scenario where a coal plant was built. Many land-based projects, such as forest conservation, are sometimes classed as mixed because they involve some CO2 removal but also comparison with scenarios in which land is degraded. Trencher tells Carbon Brief that, in reality, these projects can nearly all be considered as emissions avoidance because there is little additional CO2 being removed. As the chart below shows, the vast majority 81% of the offsets purchased by top companies since 2020 come from reduction or mixed projects. Most offsets are based on emission reduction rather than removal Millions of carbon-offset credits, each equivalent to 1t CO2 Mixed (20.44m) Mixed (20.44m) Allianz (0.542m) Allianz (0.542m) Reduction (10.136m) Reduction (10.136m) Removal (3.11m) Removal (3.11m) Alphabet (Google) (0.181m) Alphabet (Google) (0.181m) Amazon (< 0.001m) Amazon (< 0.001m) Apple (0.737m) Apple (0.737m) AT&T (0.002m) AT&T (0.002m) AXA (0.927m) AXA (0.927m) Bank of America (0.67m) Bank of America (0.67m) Unknown (4.11m) Unknown (4.11m) BMW (0.871m) BMW (0.871m) BNP Paribas (0.554m) BNP Paribas (0.554m) BP (0.027m) BP (0.027m) Chevron (6.019m) Chevron (6.019m) China State Construction (0.018m) China State Construction (0.018m) Comcast (3.217m) Comcast (3.217m) Daimler/Mercedes-Benz Group (0.024m) Daimler/Mercedes-Benz Group (0.024m) Dell (< 0.001m) Dell (< 0.001m) Deutsche Telekom AG (0.003m) Deutsche Telekom AG (0.003m) ExxonMobil (< 0.001m) ExxonMobil (< 0.001m) General Motors Company (0.016m) General Motors Company (0.016m) Hyundai (< 0.001m) Hyundai (< 0.001m) ITOCHU ENEX CO (< 0.001m) ITOCHU ENEX CO (< 0.001m) JP Morgan Chase (0.254m) JP Morgan Chase (0.254m) Microsoft (1.16m) Microsoft (1.16m) Mitsubishi (0.041m) Mitsubishi (0.041m) PetroChina (1.981m) PetroChina (1.981m) Peugeot/Stellantis (< 0.001m) Peugeot/Stellantis (< 0.001m) Samsung (0.153m) Samsung (0.153m) Shell (9.88m) Shell (9.88m) Sinopec Nanjing (0.007m) Sinopec Nanjing (0.007m) Target (0.016m) Target (0.016m) TotalEnergies (0.868m) TotalEnergies (0.868m) Toyota (< 0.001m) Toyota (< 0.001m) UnitedHealth (0.016m) UnitedHealth (0.016m) Volkswagen (9.607m) Volkswagen (9.607m) Walmart (0.002m) Walmart (0.002m) Total volume of carbon offsets retired by the top 50 companies, by revenue, with net-zero targets between 2020 and 2022 (left). Whether the carbon offset project reduces emissions compared to an alternative high-emissions scenario (e.g. a renewable power project instead of a fossil-fuel project), removes them from the atmosphere (e.g. a tree-planting project that absorbs CO2) or does a mix of the two (e.g. a forest conservation project that both reduces deforestation and promotes tree growth) is indicated on the right. The lines indicate the scale and flow of offsets between these source nations and companies. Sources: AlliedOffsets, CDP, Trencher et al. (2023), Net Zero Tracker. Analysis by Josh Gabbatiss. Chart by Tom Pearson for Carbon Brief. Only 8% involved the removal of CO2 from the atmosphere. Nearly all of these offsets are from tree-planting projects, with a small number (0.6% of removal-based credits) based on biochar projects. Tech companies including Dell, Microsoft and Apple tended to use higher proportions of removal-based offsets with more than half of the offsets on their rosters coming from such projects. Trencher tells Carbon Brief that tree-planting offset projects also constitute an ethical problem, noting that: The current model relies on securing cheap and massive land reserves in the global south to offset the polluting lifestyles and businesses of the global north. In his view, improving the existing offsetting system requires shifting from the low-quality and cheap credits currently on the market towards credits based on technological carbon methods that remove emissions permanently, such as direct air capture. Several companies Carbon Brief approached, including JP Morgan and Google emphasised plans to move towards such high-durability offsets. Missing data In order to conduct this analysis, Carbon Brief relied on a combination of third-party data, company reports and academic research. This is because registries contain significant gaps that make it difficult to ascertain who is using offsets and in what volumes. Carbon-offsetting cannot function if participants fail to track who is buying and selling credits. Registries such as those run by Verra and Gold Standard are responsible for keeping track of how carbon offsets are proceeding through the system. Their publicly available databases contain information about who has issued carbon credits and who has retired them. (Nearly 70% of credits retired in this analysis were issued by Verra and 12% by Gold Standard. Of the remainder, 12% came from the UNs Clean Development Mechanism and the rest were issued by a variety of smaller organisations.) Carbon Brief has analysed data from the four largest voluntary offset registries American Carbon Registry (ACR), Climate Action Reserve (CAR), Gold Standard and Verra (VCS) as recorded in the Berkeley Carbon Trading Projects Voluntary Registry Offsets Database. This analysis reveals that 23% of the 290,843 retirement transactions listed contain no information at all about which company or other entity is using the offsets in question. These transactions cover roughly half of the 796m retired offset credits listed. The breakdown of how many retired offsets in each registry are missing data can be seen in the charts below. Of the four, only ACR consistently includes details of who has used its offsets. Number of retired offset credits, millions, in the four largest voluntary offset registries. Pink indicates the portion where no data is entered to indicate who has claimed credit for the retirement and green indicates the portion where data has been entered. Even when registry entries do include information, often the company or organisation is not readily identifiable. It might be listed under an alternative name or the name of a specific project or activity. The registries do not require companies to disclose the credits they purchase, Dr Barbara Haya, director of the Berkeley Carbon Trading Project, tells Carbon Brief. As Trencher and colleagues note in their paper, in relation to data gaps for fossil-fuel company retirements: In cases where a major does not list its name in connection to a specific credit retirement, it is unclear whether this is done to escape public scrutiny or because credits were purchased via intermediaries, procured directly from self-developed projects, or provided to customers. Pedro Chaves Venzon, international policy advisor at trade body the International Emissions Trading Association (IETA), acknowledges that tracking offset use is an issue. He tells Carbon Brief: Companies need to register their purchases and retirements. Thats the basis for the registries in the market to work. However, as the voluntary carbon market counts on multiple private standards, each one with their own registries working independently of each other, it is difficult to track such information. A spokesperson from Verra tells Carbon Brief that buyers have to state when they have retired credits and who is counting the retirements towards their targets, but they are not obliged to make that information public. A Gold Standard spokesperson says they do not require buyers to disclose their names and, even if they do, they are not obliged to make it public: We want to be careful not to have a system that enforces disclosure onto individuals or may cause problems for some entities such as government departments who cant necessarily annotate or ascribe on a third-party platform. Carbon Brief also reached out to CAR about its data gaps, but did not receive a response. Methodology Carbon Brief obtained a list of the top 50 companies globally by revenue that have announced net-zero or similar pledges from Net Zero Tracker (including carbon negative, carbon neutral, climate neutral and zero-carbon). The platform also collects data on whether companies have explicitly stated their intention to use carbon offsets to reach their climate goals. Most of the company entries were last updated around the end of 2022 or start of 2023, which roughly aligns with the timespan covered in this analysis. Owing to gaps in available carbon-offset registries that make it difficult to assess which organisations or individuals are responsible for retiring which offsets, Carbon Brief turned to third parties to collect the relevant data. The methodology for this analysis draws from a paper published in the peer-reviewed journal Climatic Change by Trencher et al., which looked exclusively at offsets purchased and retired by four oil majors BP, Shell, Chevron and ExxonMobil. Carbon Brief requested the total retirements, by project, for the period 1 January 2020 to 31 December 2022, from analysis firm AlliedOffsets. This data is extracted from retirement data recorded in 20 voluntary offset registries, which the company matches to buyers. The company matches up registry data on offset retirements with corporate buyers, but it is not able to identify completely anonymous buyers. This data was then supplemented with information extracted manually from company questionnaire responses submitted to the CDP for climate change in 2020-2021. (This corresponds with CDP reports labelled as Climate Change 2021 and Climate Change 2022, which contain the previous years data.) CDP data for 2022 was not available at the time of analysis. If the CDP reported offset retirements that exceeded those in the AlliedOffsets data, Carbon Brief included the difference between the two values in the dataset. In cases where companies have changed their names or merged over the study period, both names are listed. A small number of companies have chosen not to provide data to the CDP and also did not have any data recorded by AlliedOffsets. This could explain why some companies, such as Saudi Aramco, are known to be purchasing carbon offsets, but do not feature in this analysis. In their analysis, Trencher et al. also searched through company documents and retirements recorded in the four main registries in the voluntary carbon market to find additional credits. This was beyond the scope of this analysis, but Carbon Brief included a handful of additional retirements identified by Trencher et al. using this method for BP, Shell, Chevron and ExxonMobil. To obtain additional information beyond project name, number of offset retirements and, in some cases, project ID, Carbon Brief used the Voluntary Registry Offsets Database produced by the Berkeley Carbon Trading Project. This filled in missing information about project type etc. when projects were registered under the four main registries American Carbon Registry (ACR), Climate Action Reserve (CAR), Gold Standard, and Verra (VCS). The UNs Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) registry provided this information for CDM credits. Company responses Carbon Brief contacted the top 50 companies by revenue to give them an opportunity to contest any errors in the offset-retirement data, provide any missing data and comment on how they were using offsets to reach their climate targets. Only 11 responded with information and only Samsung identified credits that had been falsely attributed to it 288 in total. Shell, Amazon, Deutsche Telekom, Samsung and Google said that offsets would only be used on top of efforts to avoid and reduce emissions as much as possible. BP said it intends to reach its 2030 emissions target without offsets, but they may help us to go beyond those aims. ExxonMobil said it may employ high-quality emissions offsets where technology and policy advancements are still needed. Microsoft provided details of projects and credits it has contracted in its carbon removal portfolio during 2020-2022. However, the documentation states that these credits would not all be used towards the year in which they have been reported. Therefore, Carbon Brief has not captured all of them in this analysis, which focuses on offset retirements within this time period. Some companies said their offset purchases were not being counted towards their net-zero targets. Samsung said its purchases were not used to offset its carbon emissions. Similarly, people familiar with the matter explained that only the large retirements from the Oneida Herkimer Landfill project were used for Googles corporate-emission reporting, while small purchases were merely one-off cases. Amazon also does not make any claims about neutralising its emissions with offsets. Of those top-50 companies not included in the analysis, Exor and Saudi Aramco both indicated they had purchased offsets, but did not provide details of the projects in question. Hatcher spent 36 years with the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) in a range of national security roles, including in the National Security Division of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, as capability director for Australias Air Warfare Destroyer program, and most recently as the Australian Defence Force (ADF) deputy chief of joint operations. In his later years and since leaving the Navy, he has focused on cyber security risk and capability and was appointed project lead for the review of the ADFs Contribution to the Defence Cyber Enterprise. He is also part of a consortium providing national cyber security risk advice to the New Zealand government, where his particular responsibility is in national security and defence. Working closely with CSO Groups CEO Michael Simkovic, Hatcher will advise where he believes the business can deliver the greatest security outcomes, identifying gaps in government, commercial and societal cyber security systems, and assessing future cybersecurity needs. Speaking on his appointment, he said the proliferation of knowledge sharing between nation states and non-state threat actors is a major challenge to Australia. Nation states saw the opportunity that cyberspace presented more than 20 years ago, particularly to support espionage activity, Now, however, were seeing a significant increase of state-sponsored or supported actors, some involved in military offensive planning and operations. It is notable that some nation states are increasingly willing to engage these services, and this has expanded to cyber criminals, said Hatcher. This proliferation has led to the industrialisation of cybercrime, where the barrier for entry and cost is now incredibly low, certainly lower than our societys current ability to defend against it. Virtually anyone can leverage AI tools to create malicious software or even buy it cheaply on the dark web. Motivation, not skill, is now the key driver of cybercriminal activity and Australia needs to respond to that reality. Its promising that Australias governments are making cyber security centre stage across the national security landscape. This is an important message for all Australians to understand. Hatcher also believes AI can be a vital part of the toolset to solve the challenge of cyber incidents caused by accidental human error or malicious intent. A recent study highlighted human error was the cause of 64% of data breaches in Australia last year. Organisational and security leaders know people are the gateway to most cyber issues, either by accident or design, but when businesses and government have large or dispersed workforces, including working from home, its harder to zero in, he said. Hatcher and Simkovic are pushing for a more coherent system level approach to cybersecurity, particularly for governments, critical infrastructure providers and their supply chains, given the threat from nation states. Jaimie brings a nation state security view to the industry, which is how our most critical national institutions need to think about security, said Simkovic. We are seeing increasing risk to Australias economy, our government institutions and general way of life. We need to focus on outcomes and culture, not just the transaction of security products and services. We all have a role to play in elevating Australias sovereign security posture. With this opportunity, Hatcher believes he can continue to be a part of protecting the Australian community and contribute to the response to the important and quickly evolving threat Australia is facing. Throughout my former military career, Ive strived to serve and protect Australia and all Australians. I firmly believe malicious cyber activity is one of the most important emerging threats to this country and its economy, and I hope to support CSO Groups approach and proven expertise to make a positive difference. SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. Just click here. A common theme in political news coverage over the past few years has been how "fractious" and "divisive" politics has become in our society. Newspapers, magazines and social media have countless articles and accounts of political disagreements that have torn families apart and destroyed longtime friendships. It seems to many observers that the political divisions in our country (and elsewhere around the world, frankly) are growing larger and more difficult to navigate. This is one of the less-frequently articulated consequences of the expansion of government. When government encroaches upon virtually every aspect of our lives, the people in control of government become more important than they deserve to be. But it isn't merely a debate over the size of government versus the founding principles of America. Half the country cannot understand why the other half is supporting policies that are destroying her or at least, the politicians responsible for those policies. Here are just a few examples: Illegal immigration. The Biden administration has thrown open the borders and lies to the American public about it every day. More than 8 million people have illegally crossed the border in 2 1/2 years without any vetting, screening, health checks, qualifications or demonstrated ability to support themselves. More than 300,000 crossed just in August of this year; 142,000 have already crossed the border in the first two weeks of this month. Many of these migrants are young men of military age, and come not just from countries in Central America but from Africa, the Middle East and China. Some of them are on terrorist watchlists. The number of illegal immigrants now exceeds the populations of 15 states. When Florida and Texas started busing illegal immigrants out of state, Americans across the country began to understand the mayhem, crime and depletion of resources that Biden's open borders policies have created. New York City Mayor Eric Adams recently declared that the influx of tens of thousands of migrants is going to "destroy" the city. Chicago's Black residents are furious about the $51 million the city has earmarked for migrant housing and services, when poor Chicagoans lack adequate resources. Why would anyone vote for the people responsible for this? Crime. By reducing most retail theft to misdemeanors (which are rarely prosecuted), California made it de facto legal. As a result, it has exploded; business owners lost $112 billion to theft in 2022. Illinois and New York have eliminated cash bail, putting criminals back on the streets. Chicago's new Mayor Brandon Johnson insists that teens who riot and burn cars just need better after-school activities. A female Democrat party official in Minneapolis who openly advocated for "defunding the police" in 2020 was violently attacked and beaten during a carjacking earlier this month. Across the country, other cities that decided to reduce funding for their police forces have seen dramatic increases in crime. This week saw riots and looting in downtown Philadelphia. Why would anyone vote for the people responsible for this? Homelessness. As a direct result of policies that permit it, the number of homeless people many if not most of whom are suffering with mental illness, addiction or both has increased in major cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, year after year. Residents and business owners must navigate bodies in the streets, puddles of urine and piles of human feces, not to mention disturbing behavior and crime. Fed-up residents and businesses are fleeing. Why would anyone vote for the people responsible for this? Public health deceit and censorship. Our government has not told us the truth about important public health matters like the origin and risks of COVID-19 and the safety and efficacy of vaccines developed for the virus. Worse (if that's possible), government agents pressured social media companies to censor and silence those including medical experts trying to bring the truth to the public, calling them purveyors of "misinformation." Why would anyone vote for the people responsible for this? Weaponized justice system. Our federal justice system has been weaponized against Americans holding views that until very recently would be thought to be commonsensical. Parents protesting males in female bathrooms and locker rooms, or the inclusion of graphic sexual content that is unquestionably pornographic, have been smeared as "domestic terrorists" a term that means, under the PATRIOT Act, that they could be arrested and deprived of all their constitutional rights. The FBI has also been targeting "traditional Catholics" who attend Latin Masses and pro-lifers protesting at abortion clinics. Why would anyone vote for the people responsible for this? Climate change fraud. The policies being shoved down Americans' throats in the name of "climate change" not only have little basis in scientific fact, they are distinctly inhumane and un-"green," send the cost of living skyrocketing, have crippled industries and agriculture where they have been tried (Sri Lanka is a recent example), and threaten not only our economic prosperity but basic economic stability and by that, I mean providing enough food and other life necessities to meet the needs of 340 million Americans. If economic stability collapses, political stability will follow shortly thereafter. The riots of 2020 gave us a taste of what widespread violent unrest looks like. Imagine what it would be like if we had widespread shortages of food, fuel, electricity, heat and medicine. Why would anyone vote for the people responsible for this? The current political climate is so fraught because the stakes are so high. Americans, regardless of how they identify politically, must realize that the powerful elites are making decisions that will benefit them and destroy the standard of living for everyone else. It isn't about "my guy" being in power; it is about returning the power back to the people, where it belongs. (COMMENT, BELOW) Laura Hollis is an attorney and academic. She resides in Indiana with her husband and their two children. SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. Just click here. To most of the world, the Indian government's response to Canada's charge that it may have sponsored the murder of a Sikh activist in British Columbia must be befuddling. India has strenuously denied the charges, for which Canada has provided no evidence publicly as yet. But the Indian government has also gone further and blasted Canada for supposedly hosting a "nexus of terrorism," serving as a "safe haven" for extremism and organized crime, and much else. Indian investigators have even released a list of what they call "terror-gangster networks" based in Canada. This is all absurdly detached from Canada's popular image as a polite and welcoming multicultural utopia. India's rage is misplaced and hardly serves to endear the country to those appalled by the idea that it may have had a Canadian citizen killed. Still, it does reflect widespread sentiment in India and beyond that many countries in the West have long paid insufficient attention to the overseas activism of the immigrant communities they host. That will no longer be possible. Even small, liberal countries such as Canada, Australia, and Sweden must now contend with the consequences of diaspora politics. Sweden, for example, faced a particularly pernicious dilemma when Turkey blocked its entry into NATO on the grounds that it hosted Kurdish separatists. The Swedish government had to balance Turkey's concerns and its own urgent security needs against its constitutional commitments to free speech and dissent. Of course, peaceful political expression must be defended. And countries with a reputation for taking in refugees and asylum seekers, such as Canada and Sweden, will naturally host many more dissenters than elsewhere. The problem is when, as sometimes happens in communities still focused on the disputes they left behind, dissent slides into extremism. How long can governments ignore political radicals merely because they are confining their activities to their old homes, not their new ones? Canada, in particular, has had a long history of tolerating supporters of militancy abroad. Even after 9/11 built pressure on all Western allies to root out supporters of terrorism, Ottawa resisted calls to clamp down on local financial support for Hezbollah. Canadian communities also provided much of the financing for Sri Lanka's Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam who, famously, invented suicide bombing. A lot of that money was raised, according to human-rights activists, by intimidating Canadian citizens who still had relatives in Sri Lanka. Now tensions have begun to flare domestically as well. Last year, violence between Hindus and Muslims broke out in the post-industrial town of Leicester, while Sikhs and Hindus clashed in the middle of downtown Melbourne in January. Two years earlier, a Hindu man who had been deported from Australia for allegedly attacking Sikhs was given a "hero's welcome" when he returned to India. It's easy to view such clashes as the natural consequence of India's increasingly radicalized and divided politics. But that's only part of the story. In fact, diaspora communities themselves are often more radical than those they have left behind and have exported their fundamentalism back home. The revival of Hindu supremacism in India, for example, owes a great deal to the financing and ideological leadership provided by Indian Americans. For their part, Indian investigators have long worried that a rash of murders of Sikhs for supposed blasphemy are related to fundamentalist views being financed from Canada. As Leicester and Melbourne show, ignoring the political churning within diaspora communities is unwise. Yet politicians have clear political incentives to minimize the danger, especially in countries such as the UK or Canada that pride themselves on their multiculturalism. In 2019, for example, the Canadian government removed a reference to Sikh extremism from an official report on security threats after community complaints. The risk is that the most deeply conservative, and sometimes extremist, members of a diaspora are then treated as their community's legitimate voices. Law enforcement and political parties will reach out to them or the religious institutions they often run for support. This severely disadvantages more liberal figures within the communities themselves. It creates tensions that threaten to spill out onto the streets of the West. And, as we've seen, it can enrage governments you may hope to befriend. Western nations must continue to welcome dissenters and persecuted minorities and should vigorously defend their right to free speech, their property, and their lives. But governments should also try to promote healthier conversations with and within diaspora communities. The West is still struggling to do both. The concerns India is raising would not justify the actions of which it's accused. Nonetheless, Canada and others should examine those concerns for their own sake, not India's. (COMMENT, BELOW) SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. Just click here. AMINA MOHAMMED, a Nigerian politician and diplomat, has been the deputy secretary-general of the United Nations since 2017. Earlier this month she committed a gaffe: She inadvertently told the truth. At a press conference, Mohammed was asked by Jimmy Quinn of National Review about the organization's blatant policy of discriminating against residents of Taiwan. For years, any visitor presenting a Taiwanese passport has been barred from entering UN premises anywhere in the world. Quinn inquired: Doesn't this exclusion of individuals from Taiwan hold back the UN's efforts to achieve its top declared goals, namely peace, prosperity, progress, and sustainability? "I think exclusion of anyone holds back the goals," Mohammed promptly and sensibly replied. "We said leave no one behind, and I think member states have to find a way to make sure that we are not in the position where we're excluding people. Every person matters, whether from Taiwan or otherwise, and I think it's really important for member states to find a solution to that." Hardly had the world body's second-highest official uttered those decent words, however, than the UN bureaucracy rushed to suppress them. When spokesperson Farhan Haq was asked point-blank how, in light of the deputy secretary general's words, the UN could justify "excluding Taiwanese by not letting them into UN headquarters," his tangled, stammered response was to pretend that he had been asked about China. He wouldn't even utter Taiwan's name. "We we don't intend to leave any of the people of China behind, and we support all of the people of China, but but but we stick by the one-China policy as as has been decided by the General Assembly," he spluttered. Except that the General Assembly never decided that Taiwan's 24 million citizens must be regarded as nonpersons. The "one-China policy" dates back to the 1971 resolution that China would henceforth be represented in the United Nations by the Communist government in Beijing, replacing the Taiwanese government in Taipei. Since then, Taiwan has evolved into a modern, liberal democracy, actively engaged in commerce with the world. Its people overwhelmingly consider their nationality Taiwanese, not Chinese. Yet China has the audacity to claim that Taiwan is not a true country but merely a renegade Chinese province. It's a wholly preposterous claim, not least because the Chinese Communist Party has never governed Taiwan. Nevertheless, UN officials go along with Beijing's claim. They deny Taiwan, one of Asia's freest and most advanced nations, a seat on global forums. Even worse, UN personnel treat individual Taiwan citizens as pariahs. Holders of an ordinary Taiwan passport can travel, visa-free, to 145 countries, including the United States, Japan, Israel, and most of Europe. But if they show up at the UN and offer their Taiwan passport as identification, the door is shut in their face. I spoke last week with Lennon Chang, a Taiwanese professor of criminology at Australia's Monash University. He described what it's like to be snubbed in this manner. On one occasion, arriving for a meeting of scholars at the UN Conference Center in Bangkok, he presented his Taiwan passport and was denied entry. Only when he produced an ID that didn't mention his country's name was he permitted to join his colleagues. On another occasion, Chang collaborated with a UN agency on a project underwritten in part by the Australian government. Impressed with his skill, agency officials proposed that he work with them on a follow-up project. But once they learned that he was Taiwanese the matter hadn't previously come up they abruptly pulled the plug. Such biased treatment is routinely meted out to Taiwanese reporters, students, and tourists, who are guilty only of being citizens of a country that the world's most powerful dictatorship claims for itself. It is as if Moscow were to insist that Ukraine is Russian and that Ukrainians must be barred from every UN forum and facility. After Amina Mohammed, the United Nations' deputy secretary-general, urged member states to stop excluding visitors from Taiwan, UN officials quickly contradicted her. It bears repeating: No UN resolution requires Taiwan's exclusion. The very notion is absurd: The UN was created, according to the opening sentence of its charter, to uphold "the dignity and worth of the human person [and] the equal rights ... of nations large and small." China's outrageous demand that Taiwan be treated as an international leper shouldn't be indulged. It should be repudiated forcefully. More than once, Beijing has threatened to go to war to conquer Taiwan. The last thing America and its allies ought to be doing is trying to appease such a menacing bully. Every time China is allowed to muscle the UN into humiliating its small neighbor, war becomes just that much more likely. The blackballing of democratic Taiwan is both wrong and dangerous. Why does the free world tolerate it? Jeff Jacoby is a columnist for The Boston Globe, from which this is reprinted with permission." MATTOON Three area libraries have teamed up to offer the Manhattan Short films to East Central Illinois residents. The libraries in Mattoon, Charleston and Effingham join more than 100,000 film enthusiasts around the world for screenings between Sept. 28 and Oct. 8. Local showings are at 6 p.m. on Sept. 28 and Oct. 8 in the lower basement of the Mattoon Public Library, 1600 Charleston Ave.; at 5 p.m. Oct. 5 at the Effingham Public Library, 200 N. Third St., and at 3 p.m. Oct. 6 at the Charleston Carnegie Public Library, 712 Sixth St. The festival, in its 26th year, selects 10 short film finalists from around the world. The entire program lasts about 2.5 hours including a short intermission. For the 10 finalists, the films are automatically Oscar-qualified. This is the first year the libraries combined to offer the films at multiple regional sites. Those attending a screening may vote for the best film and best actor. By working together we bring a film festival with international reach so that patrons throughout our region have multiple dates and times to conveniently enjoy this outstanding collection of films that they cant see anywhere else, said Carl Walworth, Mattoon Public Library director. Chris Houchens, director at the Charleston Carnegie Public Library, said the festival adds to the librarys lineup of cultural activities. This allows us to provide a program with an international flavor in our market that consistently shows its appreciation for the arts. Amanda McKay, Effingham Public Library director, said the Manhattan Short is another way for the Suzette Brumleve Memorial Library to offer patrons programs that go beyond the traditional library offering. We look for opportunities to enhance our community in multiple ways. This program adds to our efforts to provide quality, diverse programming. The Manhattan Short program is free and open to anyone. No library card is required. The ten Manhattan Short finalists represent the best short films from among 850 submissions from 72 countries received by Manhattan Short for 2023, testimony to the enduring vibrancy and creativity of short films worldwide. The Manhattan Short Final Ten are: "Sunless" (USA), "Voice Activated" (Australia), "Yellow" (Afghanistan), "Tuulikki" (Finland), "The Family Circus" (USA), "Career Day" (USA), "Snail" (Iran), "The Record" (Switzerland), "The Stupid Boy" (UK), and "Soleil De Nuit" (Canada). The 2023 line-up is linked by a common theme: how we face adversity, whether it is imposed by others or arises from personal circumstances. My Town: Clint Walker's memories of Coles County as pulled from the archives Cosmic Blue Comics Mattoon Arcade Icenogle's Cooks Mills Mister Music Sound Source Guitar Throw Vette's FutureGen Several students gathered around the Charleston High School flagpole before classes started Wednesday morning to take part in the annual See You at the Pole global day of prayer. Local churches also helped organize prayer gatherings that morning around flagpoles at Mattoon High School, Mattoon Middle School, and St. John's Lutheran School in Mattoon. SPRINGFIELD Nearly a year after legislative staff in House Speaker Chris Welch's office privately declared their intent to unionize, there finally appears to be a path forward into the unchartered waters. Welch, a Democrat from suburban Hillside, filed legislation earlier this week that would authorize the Illinois Labor Relations Board to oversee an election on the formation of a collective bargaining unit within the legislative branch. The ILRB, as it does with other public sector employers, would also have jurisdiction over collective bargaining matters such as investigating and attempting to resolve unfair labor practice charges and utilizing impasse procedures such as mediation and arbitration to resolve labor disputes. Current law exempts employees that work for the Illinois General Assembly from the labor relations board's framework. Further, the proposal would create a legislative agency to represent the interests of the General Assembly in the collective bargaining process. Welch, in an interview with me Wednesday morning, said he plans to hold a vote on the legislation next month, when lawmakers return to Springfield for their fall veto session. "Our record on labor is strong, it's clear (and) unequivocal," Welch said. "And what we have done here is create a legal pathway for legislative employees in the House and Senate to organize and collectively bargain through their representatives." The House speaker has long been a champion of organized labor, supporting many initiatives over the years to advance worker's rights, most notably an amendment to the state constitution that enshrines the right to unionize. Voters approved the initiative at the ballot last year. But Welch had taken some heat in recent months amid the unionization push within his own House. The Illinois Legislative Staff Association, the group of employees seeking union recognition, said earlier this month that Welch and his staff had refused to engage with them. Welch disputed the notion and denied that the topic was contentious one for him, saying that it simply took time to work through the process. "Did we have to slow it down and be thorough and get it right? Yes, we did," Welch said. "But at no time did we block their efforts. What we wanted to do was make sure that we had a legal pathway. Current Illinois law specifically prohibits what they were asking us to do. And we had to create a legal pathway that would allow us to do what they seek. And that's what this bill does, and that's what other states have done as well." Welch said that his legal counsel and outside attorneys had determined that under current law, it would be unlawful for him to voluntarily recognize the staffers' union. That was the path staffers were hoping for after a petition for certification with the ILRB, necessary to hold an election, was denied earlier this year due to the agency's current lack of jurisdiction over legislative employees. But, even if he voluntarily recognized the union, Welch said there were still no procedures in place to handle matters such as unfair labor practice charges. The remedy? A change in state law. Brady Burden, a staffer and a member of the Illinois Legislative Staff Association's organizing committee, said the group welcomed the legislation. "We are happy to see the Speaker file this bill," Burden said. "We look forward to working together in good faith and coming to an agreement." Welch said his top staffers did "thorough and diligent research" all summer on the topic before making recommendations that he "was very comfortable with." Part of this was looking at what other states were doing, such as Oregon, where legislative aides formed a first-of-its-kind union comprised in 2021. The union just recently reached a tentative agreement on their first contract. Over the past couple of years, legislative staff in states like California, Massachusetts and New York have sought to unionize. Legislators in the Golden State just a few weeks ago passed legislation authorizing legislative staff to unionize. It awaits Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom's signature. Welch said that some language in his bill was pulled from California's. Among the provisions: one that bars workers from striking during months the legislature is scheduled to be in session. Welch said this was inserted to ensure that any kind of labor dispute "does not interrupt the legislative calendar." "There's only a certain period of time that we can conduct business when a simple majority is needed," Welch said. "And we believe that it's important that a strike does not interrupt the budget-making season. A lot is dependent on what happens in Springfield in May across the state. And so we put that into law. Now again, this bill is out there in advance, and we're going to continue to take input from those who have an interest in it." Indeed, several stakeholders will likely get a say in shaping the proposal. It is extremely common for bills to be amended during the legislative process. But with Welch's backing and personal sponsorship of the legislation, it seems all-but-certain that some version of it will pass out of the House. It would then head to the Illinois Senate. The chamber is also controlled by Democrats, but there has been little to no evidence of any widespread desire to unionize among legislative staffers there. This is the first weve seen this proposal. We will review it," said John Patterson, spokesman for Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park. Welch said he gave Harmon "a heads up" that he was filing the legislation. "I fully anticipate he's going to read it and we're going to go through the legislative process," Welch said. Gov. J.B. Pritzker indicated earlier this month that he supported the efforts of legislative workers to unionize if that's what they choose to do. "This is a paradigm shift," Welch said, acknowledging the fairly unprecedented nature of legislative staff unions. "This is a change in how legislatures work." As proposed, the legislation would not take effect until July 1, 2026. Again, this longer ramp-up time mirrors the California proposal. "Part of (the reason for) that is to implement this correctly, properly, it's going to take time, and that's why we put the 2026 effective date in ours as well," he said. "There's no way to do this and create a whole new office by rushing this. And so we want to get it right and that's why we put the effective date a couple of years down the road." I wrote in my column a few weeks ago that this would be a test of whether Welch and House Democrats practiced what they preached when it came to supporting organized labor. Well, Welch is now talking the talk. And in a few weeks, the fall legislative session will give him and Democratic lawmakers more broadly a chance to walk the walk. What the Hollywood strikes tell us about the state of unions in the US What the Hollywood strikes tell us about the state of unions in the US Union support reaches levels last seen when Ronald Reagan led striking Hollywood actors Union drives grow more effective Clashes between workers and employers rising Union membership still below prepandemic levels CHICAGO The invasive spotted lanternfly has been identified in Illinois for the first time, the Illinois Department of Agriculture said Tuesday. Environmentalists across the state have long dreaded the arrival of the nuisance species, notorious for its spotted red and brown wings and the threat it poses to the more than 70 types of fruit trees and other plants it is known to consume. The East Asian insect was first identified in Pennsylvania around eight years ago and has been making its way west with rides hitched on railroad cars, semitrucks and other vehicles. It has worked its way into Indiana, Ohio, Michigan and Iowa. Spotted lanternfly has been inching closer to the Midwest and Illinois for close to a decade, said Agriculture Department Director Jerry Costello II in a news release Tuesday. We have had a multi-agency team working to prepare for this scenario including efforts on readiness, informing and educating the industry and the public, as well as monitoring early detection. Reports of a live spotted lanternfly in Illinois were first received by the state Agriculture Department on Sept. 16. Officials from the federal, state and local governments visited the site and identified a moderately populated area, according to the release. The investigators collected specimens and received results Tuesday that confirmed the species had arrived. There is no reason to believe widespread plant or tree death will result from the insects presence, said Scott Schirmer, the Agriculture Departments nursery and northern field office section manager. This is likely going to be a nuisance pest that interferes with our ability to enjoy outdoor spaces and may have some impact on the agritourism industry, including orchards, pumpkin patches, and vineyards, Schirmer said. The insect moves easily on trains, wood surfaces, products and more, making it hard to contain, the news release said. Prevention and early detection are vital to limiting its ability to move and intrude upon new areas, it continued. We need the publics help to look for and report this pest, and to also strengthen the outreach about it. It will likely impact everyone in Illinois one way or another, so the more awareness we have the better. Authorities encouraged people who see the bug to report sightings to lanternfly@illinois.edu and to crush it. Illinoisans should also check their vehicles and outdoor gear for bugs and eggs and destroy them if found, the release said. The state Agriculture Department is trying to determine how widely the pest has infested the state, it continued. The spotted lanternfly has become the target of kill-on-sight requests in places including New York City, where it swarms outside buildings and lands on pedestrians, all the while secreting a sticky honeydew substance that can cling to outdoor furniture. Its known to feed on plants that grow apples, peaches, cherries, hops and grapes. It also feeds on trees including maple, oak, walnut, sycamore, pine and willow. Its not likely to kill a tree on its own, but if the tree is already weakened by drought stress or disease, an infestation by spotted lanternflies could be the knockout punch, Tricia Bethke, forest pest outreach coordinator at The Morton Arboretum in Lisle, told the Tribune last year. Photos: Illinois State Fair political days through the years 2012 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2015 State Fair 2015 State Fair 2015 State Fair 2007 State Fair 2008 State Fair 2008 State Fair 2009 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2005 State Fair 2004 State Fair 2003 State Fair 2003 State Fair 2006 State Fair 2007 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2018 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2021 State Fair 2021 State Fair Three businesses have come together in a partnership in the Big Winston building on Trade Street downtown. The Big Winston Stockhouse at 740 N. Trade St. brings together owners of Broad Branch Distillery, Fiddlin Fish Brewing Co. and Short Street Kitchens in a business that is part cocktail bar, part culinary club, part market and part event space. The space formerly was Big Winston Lounge, then offices for Sunshine Beverage. When Sunshine Beverage departed, we were all eyeing it for different reasons, said Anna Windham, who took over running Broad Branch with her sister Natalie Spinosa after their father, John Fragakis, retired. In the case of Windham and Spinosa, they wanted to expand Broad Branchs cocktail bar. We were running a cocktail bar once a week out of our little tasting bar and it wasnt made for that, Windham said. It was crowded and logistically tough to set up and take down in a day. We needed more space. The bar area in Big Winston Stockhouse features all of Broad Branchs liquors, but it has other brands, too. We can carry any liquor we want, but were trying to support local N.C. distillers. So, for example, we have Sutlers Gin (also made in Winston-Salem). Windham said the selection is about evenly divided between N.C. and national or international brands. And we focus on signature cocktails, but you can order normal things, like a daiquiri or martini. The bar also currently has four Fiddlin Fish beers on tap. But thats not the reason that Fiddlin Fish owners David Ashe and Stuart Barnhart wanted the space. We have a lot of inquiries for private events at the brewery, Ashe said. But we were limited because we cant provide a private space without shutting the taproom down. And its not really an option in peak times to close the entire taproom. So Fiddlin Fish will be using the side of Big Winston Stockhouse opposite from Broad Branchs bar as an event space. It has a separate beer bar on that side for that purpose. It will be using that overflow bar and extra space on Oct. 7 when it holds its annual Day of the Dead event. This is a Grateful Dead tribute of sorts, including music by funk rock band Dr. Bacon from Asheville and Cosmic Charlie, a Dead tribute band from Athens, Ga. There also will be vendors in the parking lot like a Shakedown Street of vendors at a Dead concert, Ashe said. Fiddlin Fish liked the idea of Big Winston Stockhouse for one other reason: Theres a small kitchen in the space thats big enough to knock out sandwiches, nachos and quesadillas. In other words, Big Winston Stockhouse has become the food provider to Fiddlin Fish customers, precluding the need for a food truck. In recent years, Fiddlin Fish has tended to favor steady sources of food rather than a rotating selection of trucks as many breweries do. If you look around the industry, we are not alone, Ashe said, noting how Foothills Tasting Room now has its own food truck, and Joymongers Barrel Hall recently partnered with That Place in the West End to provide food to its Winston-Salem taproom. What we are seeing is a desire for more consistency, he said. The booking (for food trucks) is difficult and often unreliable. The food quality is up and down. People in our industry are starting to want some control over what we offer our customers. Big Winston Stockhouse Address: 740 N. Trade St., Winston-Salem, N.C. 27101 Phone: 336-306-9170 Bar hours: 4-9 p.m. Thursday, 4-10 p.m. Friday, 1-10 p.m. Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday Market/kitchen hours: 5-9 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thurs and Friday; noon to 9 p.m. Saturday; and 1-6 p.m. Sunday. Website: bigwinstonstockhouse.com Instagram: @bigwinstonstockhouse This is where Short Street Kitchens comes into the picture. Because the space doesnt have a full kitchen, the food service is set up as a culinary club, with a $1 annual membership. Prep work is done at Short Streets licensed commercial kitchen in Kernersville. Then assembly and light cooking is done at Big Winston Stockhouse. The menu is expected to rotate. The current menu has four sandwiches plus nachos and a quesadilla. Prices start at $6.50 for grilled cheese and go up to $11 for such sandwiches as a hot turkey and Gouda. Digital kiosks are set up in Big Winston Stockhouse and in Fiddlin Fish. People also can order through a QR code on menus at Fiddlin Fish or anywhere. Customers get a text when the order is ready. Not only that, but Short Street and the Stockhouse are stocking a variety of other foods, everything from chips and sodas to frozen soups, pies, chili and lasagna. All of these can be ordered through the kiosks and QR codes, too. The idea of including a market has a lot to do with the Artreaux apartments that are being built about a block away. We saw a need for good local take-and-bake options because of the apartments that are going up across the street, said Kylor Rife, a partner in Short Street. Rife said that Short Street currently has about 50 clients, making a wide variety of foods for a wide variety of purposes. Some are food trucks, some are caterers, and some are wholesalers of bottled sauces and other products. Rife and partner Tylere White said that large number of Short Street members gives them a lot of variety to choose from in stocking the market. Our members make all kinds of food, White said. Some of them are just starting their businesses, but as they get established, we can stock them in here. As Rife said, We hope this to be a funnel, another way for our members to get their name out there, to sell food to the public. The other day, the market had frozen soups, chili and pies from Pieson Pies and eggplant Parmigiana and sausage lasagna from Copper Kitchen Catering both Short Street members. But it also had other local products, too, include Carolina Kettle Chips and Chads Carolina Corn. Right now, the selection is small, and leans toward mostly snacks and drinks. But when those apartments fill in, Short Street expects to beef up the market, and to add such basics as bread, milk and eggs. If all of that werent enough, in the very rear of the space an urban microgreens farm, Camel City Greens, in the back run by Olivia Weir. They are mostly sold to chefs and restaurants, but they also are stocked in the Stockhouses refrigerated market case. Sheriff Bobby Kimbrough wasnt wrong. The sheriff, recall, lit into members of the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners during an otherwise routine meeting last Thursday afternoon in a debate its not really a debate if the outcome is preordained over how much to pay jailers. I am just disturbed by the hypocrisy and the mendacity that are taking place, Kimbrough said not long after being invited to the podium. Whoops. Thats probably not the input commissioners were seeking. But its not like they couldnt have seen it coming. Kimbrough is known for a lot of things fabulous dresser, gifted politician, able leader but not for holding his tongue. Its almost as if some commissioners hadnt met him. And so, when asked for his thoughts about pay raises for deputies and detention officers, Kimbrough opened up. Found wanting The issue wasnt whether to give detention officers a raise. Rather, it was a question of how much. Commissioners had pretty much decided to bump pay for county law enforcement before Thursdays meeting started. Its a must-do item in every city, town and county that funds its own police force. Vacancies in law enforcement jobs arent coming down anytime soon. So if residents the taxpayers want someone in a uniform to respond to 911 calls within a half hour, elected officials have to dig deeper. And thats how we arrived at Thursdays debate. For the most part, commissioners were following a script written in the wake of a study by the Piedmont Regional Council that compared the rates of pay for cops and jailers in area communities. To the surprise of no one, Forsyth County was found wanting. The jail had 50 vacancies last fall; as of earlier this month, that number had more than doubled to 109. And thats the concern. Under the plan formulated after the study, deputies those in uniform humping calls and detectives responsible for more in-depth investigations would see starting pay bumped from $44,511 to $51,527. Starting pay for jailers, however, would increase to $49,073 from that same $44,511 base. That didnt sit well with Kimbrough. Sheriffs in North Carolina are in a strange position. Theyre directly elected every four years but have to rely on commissioners to set their budgets. They dont set tax rates probably a good thing so when it comes time to establish their annual spending plans, sheriffs have to ask. Typically they bring stacks of statistics and slide shows for justification. Thursday was different, but only slightly. Instead of the entire $69.6-million sheriffs annual budget, commissioners would vote on pay raises to take effect next month. A mid-year bonus, as it were, to address staffing shortages. To pay for it, commissioners OKd an annual budget increase of $3.8 million. Raising the pay of jailers would have cost an additional $400,000. Money is relevant Not surprisingly since it had just been another topic of discussion, Kimbrough seized upon commissioners approval of some $711,927 over five years in economic incentives to Purple Crow, a local company specializing in Hispanic foods about to expand into Whitaker Park. (Purple Crow, by the way, pays an average annual salary of $72,365. The city of Winston-Salem recently approved $694,281 in incentives to the company.) While the county isnt known for doling out economic incentives as frequently as the city some might call the practice corporate welfare commissioners do follow suit. These folk do twice the work that Purple Crow does, Kimbrough said of detention officers. Some folk who have never been there and understand what they do but yet, try to regulate the pay, and Im just blown away by that. It doesnt make sense to me. Pay is relevant ... in every aspect of life. Money is relevant, is relevant, is relevant. Of course hes right. And he didnt mention the degree of difficulty in the job. Detention officers go to work every day surrounded (and outnumbered) by 900-some inmates. Some are overnighters charged with urinating in parks; others validated gang-bangers awaiting trial for murder. Substance-abuse disorder and mental illness are prevalent, too. Jailers, good ones, walk a fine line between keeping order and treating the inmates with dignity and respect. After I came from the jail, I was disturbed and had anxieties, and I told the sheriff, quite frankly, in all transparency, I couldnt go back any time soon, said Commissioner Shai Woodbury in recounting an official visit. Kimbrough was particularly taken aback by Chairman Don Martin, a former school superintendent who has rarely encountered an issue on which he is not already an expert. Martin cited an employee survey which found low morale among jail staff. It is not even a fair conversation, said Kimbrough while criticizing Martin for not even taking a guided tour of the jail since Kimbrough was elected. It is like telling a surgeon how to perform surgery when you have never been to medical school. And it is upsetting to me. It is. No one can blame him for trying. Deputies and jailers applaud him for speaking out on their behalf. And the public, those who foot the bill, if were really concerned with public safety as polls have indicated, will take notice. Dandy Thursday. Should be a peach. Robert G. thats how his name was listed in the program couldnt have been comfortable. Few would have been. A middle-aged man who has clawed his way up from rock bottom, Robert sat before some 400 potential donors to Samaritan Ministries at the nonprofits Sam & Eggs fundraiser answering questions about some of his darkest days on earth. No wonder he seemed nervous as he was introduced even if his story was ultimately about triumph and redemption. Like me, he was sick and tired of being sick and tired, said Marcus Houston, an assistant director at Samaritan Ministries. Both men came through Samaritans Project Cornerstone, a rehabilitation program that aims to reorient men from a path of self-destruction. And by talking about his journey, even if he appeared slightly unnerved, Roberts intention was to help inspire the folks enjoying the breakfast buffet on the concourse of Truist Ballpark to dig deep to give someone else following his path a chance. So many undesirable things, he said when gently asked about some low points. I started using, abusing, and ended up in jail. A familiar cycle for addicts who frequently turn to theft to support an expensive, destructive habit. The only time I would stay clean was when I was in jail, he said. He decided to give Project Cornerstone a go following the death of his mother, who passed when he was locked up. It wasnt easy. The first step a real desire for change may be the most difficult. But since graduating, Robert said his life took a dramatic turn for the better and put him in a place he could hardly have imagined two years ago. He has a job at Samaritan. His own apartment. And my own car, he said. At the end of every day, the simplest things give him immense satisfaction. Walking to his apartment and turning the key to his home. I look around to make sure nobody has been there, he said. Then I sit in the chair my chair with a sigh of relief and think This is mine. Its a feeling I cannot describe. For Samaritan Ministries, the annual breakfast fundraiser is a key part of a yearly grind in the nonprofit world. Large or small, nonprofits all start the budget years at zero. They search out grants, hit up generous foundations and reach out again and again to donors. Its tough work, but necessary if we are who we think we are in helping those left behind. And it must be nerve-wracking to continually start each fiscal year at the bottom with nothing. But nerves or not, as Robert demonstrated in microcosm, it can be done. Audacious goal GREENSBORO Its an audacious goal - some might call it unattainable or unrealistic - but advocates are pushing to make Greensboro a car-optional city by 2040 through an initiative called GoBORO. The details are not as stark as having car-loving Americans parking their rides permanently in little more than 20 years. Rather, GoBORO is basically trying to cobble together a long-range plan for public transportation in a rapidly growing area. City transit officials are in the first of a multi-phase project to, in their own words, provide a variety of transportation options so that you have a choice to get around without driving a car. Good luck with that. Efficient, reliable public transportation buses with frequent, on-time and convenient stops, for one example is expensive and requires buy-in from many different sectors. Convincing people to leave the comfort of their own cars, probably electric by 2040, behind will not be easy. The first of the phases is public engagement. The city is conducting surveys for ideas and to gauge public sentiment. And Sunday, transit officials are hosting an in-person event called Art in the Arboretum from 2-5 p.m. to build support. Car-optional by 2040 is audacious. But so was landing a man on the moon. Reynolds recognition WINSTON-SALEM Congratulations are in order for students at R.J. Reynolds High School administrators and teachers, too. Reynolds was one of six North Carolina middle or schools to be lauded by the Special Olympics for harboring an atmosphere of inclusivity on campus. Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools, per the organization, are judged on 10 standards of inclusion and must be met year after year for consideration. Bullying and ostracization remain huge problems lets face it, kids can be mean but chipping away at them, in time, definitely helps. Reynolds should be proud to raise their banner. This week, yet another government shutdown appears inevitable because a sizable chunk of the House Freedom Caucus believes, in the words of Otter in Animal House, that this situation absolutely requires a really futile and stupid gesture be done on somebodys part. What situation? Before we get to that, its important to understand that any situation will do when youre determined to deliver a stupid and futile gesture. In America, the term counterculture is so associated with hippies, beatniks, bohemians and the like, it might seem odd to think of self-described conservatives as counterculture types. But the evidence is all over the place from the loopy conspiratorialism and secession talk to the bizarre, albeit selective, defenses of lawlessness and even violence that a lot of right-wingers have shed the pretense of actual conservatism in favor of a permanent pose of performative radicalism. On the fringes of the House Republican conference, you can find this kind of nuttery aplenty. But, collectively, this countercultural impulse manifests itself most relevantly in an almost Freudian compulsion to lose. Which brings us to the situation. Earlier this year, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy managed to work out a modestly successful deal with Democrats that extended the debt ceiling until 2025. Given his incredibly narrow, four-seat majority and the fractious nature of his coalition, this was hailed at the time as a considerable win for McCarthy and the Republicans, allegedly proving the GOP could be a governing party. And that was the problem for the radicals. When youve convinced yourself that the system is irretrievably corrupt or some kind of existential enemy, any form of deal is seen as evidence that youve sold out. The only way to irrefutably demonstrate that you didnt compromise your principles whatever those might be is to lose. Martyrs are pure. Dealmakers are collaborators. So the rabble-rousing core of the Freedom Caucus declared that it got rolled in the debt ceiling fight and vowed to use the budget process to force spending cuts from, well, everyone. They claim McCarthy made them promises he didnt keep which might be true. They insist government borrowing and spending are out of control and must be dealt with which is certainly true. Something has to be done. Fair enough. But what? Their answer is to force a shutdown of the government. The only problem? This is perhaps the most predictable script of the modern political era. To the shock of no one, voters dont like government shutdowns, and, mirabile dictu, the party that forces a shutdown gets blamed for shutting down the government while the other party which in this case happens to control both the Senate and the White House gets to score easy points. And then, eventually, a deal is worked out, but only after enough damage is self-inflicted. Its akin to declaring, Do what I demand or I will repeatedly smash my hand with this hammer until you relent. Or maybe its like 1960s student radicals occupying the Berkeley or Kenyon cafeteria demanding better library hours, more parking and a complete withdrawal of U.S. forces from Vietnam. Or maybe its in the Leninist spirit of the worse, the better. After all, people who make a living from catastrophizing like catastrophes. As McCarthy said Monday, Its almost like they want to walk you into a shutdown and then blame you for the shutdown. That seems to be where their dashboard saint, Donald Trump, is coming from. Over the weekend, he reiterated that the GOP should behave as if it has all the leverage. On social media, he posted, UNLESS YOU GET EVERYTHING, SHUT IT DOWN! Of course, Trump wants to use a government shutdown to defund the federal prosecutions against him and other patriots. Even if you thought this radical asininity were a great idea, the idea that it could make it through a Democratic-controlled Senate and past the presidents veto is a childish fantasy. But even the comparatively more modest demands being made by the holdouts are unlikely to clear those hurdles, which, again, is why its all so futile and stupid. These antics will fail, but not before harming the reelection chances of many Republicans, including 18 from districts Biden won. Indeed, the most committed radicals come from extremely safe seats, which theyre not scared of losing. As for losing control of the House, that would just prove how principled they are. A few feet before the altar inside St. Michael Catholic Church, schoolchildren file past a large glass case, some making the Sign of the Cross, others reverently folding their hands, looking inside the case where a small wooden model of a priest's hand imparting a blessing sits. Within that wooden reliquary is a forearm bone that Catholic tradition says belonged to St. Jude Thaddeus venerated as one of the original Twelve Apostles and a cousin of Jesus which for the first time since it was moved to Rome during the reign of Emperor Constantine has been taken outside Italy. The relic was on display Wednesday at Lincoln's St. Michael, which was one of the stops on a nationwide tour of the major relic of St. Jude, known as the "Apostle of the Impossible" whom Christians turn to in "hopeless and desperate situations" said the Rev. Carlos Martins, the director of Treasures of the Church, which facilitates relic pilgrimages across the world. This particular pilgrimage, which began in Chicago earlier this month, will, by May 2024, have made 100 stops across the U.S., including in Omaha on Thursday and Friday and in Fremont on Saturday. Spirit Catholic Radio, a network of Catholic radio stations in Nebraska, helped bring the pilgrimage to three Nebraska cities, said the Rev. Kenneth Borowiak, the pastor of St. Michael. "It's for most people a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be able to see and venerate a relic, and virtually unheard of to have a relic of one of the original Twelve Apostles," Borowiak said. The first-class relic which, according to Catholic teaching, are body parts of saints preserved for the purpose of veneration dates back to St. Jude's martyrdom in modern-day Beirut, Lebanon, Martins said. According to tradition, St. Jude's body was interred in Beirut for a time before it was moved to Rome during the reign of Constantine and placed in a crypt below the spot where the Vatican's St. Peter's Basilica was eventually built. The arm was later separated from the remains and placed in a wooden reliquary. The display of relics holds a two-fold purpose, Borowiak said: To educate and to increase faith. It's traditional for Catholic churches to have relics in the altar stone as well, Borowiak added. St. Michael, which was dedicated five months ago, is home to eight relics of saints, including contemporary ones like Maximilian Kolbe, Mother Teresa and Pope John Paul II. On Wednesday, students at St. Michael Catholic School and the public got an opportunity to visit the relic of St. Jude, whose name is also now tied in modern times to the children's research hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. The relic will be at St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Omaha on Thursday, St. Leo Catholic Church in Omaha on Friday and St. Patrick Catholic Church in Fremont on Saturday. Public veneration is from 1-10 p.m. with Masses held at the Omaha churches at 6 p.m. and noon in Fremont. A complete schedule of the tour can be found at apostleoftheimpossible.com. Photos: Pope Francis through the years Long before a state caseworker was shot Tuesday as he and a colleague approached a house in Lincoln's North Bottoms to perform a welfare check on children in the home, concerns had been raised about the children's father. There was a harassment protection order signed by a Douglas County judge in September 2022 that barred Brent Lopez from communicating with an Omaha family after they accused Lopez of flashing a gun at their child's birthday party. There was the domestic abuse protection order that Lopez's wife, a 35-year-old woman, sought in January after accusing Lopez of withholding their children from school and medical care though another Douglas County judge dismissed the woman's petition, citing insufficient evidence. And there was the incident that played out Sunday at Lincoln's Air Park Community Center, where Lopez, who was an employee of the center, allegedly punched two teenage girls before retrieving his Taurus 9mm handgun from his car as police responded, authorities said. But on Wednesday a day after Lopez, 38, allegedly shot a 28-year-old Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services employee from his porch near Seventh and Y streets police insisted those prior warnings were not sufficient for officers to seize the Lincoln man's handgun under Nebraska law. "I think it's important to note that, from the incident that happened on Sunday, there were no law violations that would warrant seizure of his weapon," Erika Thomas, a spokeswoman for the Lincoln Police Department, told reporters Wednesday morning. Police could not and did not seize Lopez's firearm until after 3:57 p.m. Tuesday, when officers were dispatched to his address after he allegedly shot the caseworker once in the leg, leaving the 28-year-old hospitalized with injuries that aren't thought to be life threatening, Thomas said. Lopez, who was arrested on suspicion of felony assault of a health care worker and use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony, was taken to the Lancaster County Jail, where he is being held without bond until his initial court appearance Thursday afternoon, prosecutors said. Police collected Lopez's 9mm for evidence reclaiming the gun that officers briefly confiscated from the 38-year-old Sunday afternoon in Air Park, before giving it back to him after they cited him on suspicion of two counts of misdemeanor assault for allegedly punching two teen girls who he said had threatened him and his son. Thomas said Lopez is believed to have retrieved the gun from his car Sunday afternoon after the fistfight at the community center but before police arrived on the scene. Once officers did get there, Thomas said, Lopez followed the provisions laid out in LB77, the newly enacted law governing the permitless concealed carry of weapons in Nebraska that took effect this month, requiring gun carriers to immediately notify law enforcement officers that they're in possession of a concealed firearm upon contact with authorities. The law championed by gun rights advocates and derided by anti-gun violence activists in turn allows police to secure the gun or ask the carrier to safely store the gun for the duration of their contract with authorities, which is exactly how Sunday's interaction between Lopez and police played out, Thomas said. "When he was asked to lock up the gun on Sunday, that happened," she said. "The gun was locked up and he was asked to leave the premises and he did. So there were no violations. "And the handgun wasn't part of the incident at all on Sunday. And people can legally possess firearms." That Lopez carried the gun into the city-owned community center was a violation of the executive order Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird signed this month barring weapons from city buildings, at public libraries and in parks. But the order which took effect the day before LB77 invalidated all prior local ordinances limiting Nebraskans' ability to own, possess, store, transport, sell or transfer firearms makes noncompliance punishable by considering violations of the order as trespassing. The order doesn't allow for police to seize weapons from noncompliant carriers. In a phone interview with the Journal Star hours before Tuesday's shooting, Lopez made multiple references to his gun, but never indicated he planned to use it to harm authorities. He did, though, seem to suggest police had erred in returning it to him. "These officers who gave me my gun back I am afraid of two things right now," he said. "I am afraid of them, in order to cover their behinds I don't want problems with the police, man. I really don't. "But Im afraid that theyre gonna try to get some revenge on me, he continued, before quickly reneging. And I dont have you know, I shouldnt say that, man. I shouldnt say that. But Im just really paranoid right now, is what I should say. I cant trust anybody. Police had knocked on Lopez's door at about 1:20 p.m. Tuesday to perform their own welfare check on his children, but didn't inquire about the gun. "There's a lot of things that aren't great but aren't against the law," Lincoln Police Sgt. Chris Vollmer, another department spokesperson, said Wednesday. "So when we're checking the welfare of a child, you're looking at, 'Are basic needs met? Are they in physical danger?'" If needs are met and danger doesn't seem to be present, officers refer families to other agencies or organizations, Vollmer said, such as DHHS. Even before LB77 purged the city's prior gun-restricting ordinances earlier this month, it's unclear if Lopez's history would have been sufficient grounds for a seizure. City law previously barred the possession of firearms in Lincoln by people convicted of a slew of criminal offenses within the past 10 years, including stalking, violating of a protection order, sex assault, false imprisonment, assault and battery, impersonating a police officer, and carrying a concealed weapon, among more than a dozen other crimes. Those restrictions were in addition to the convictions that would prohibit someone from carrying a weapon under state law. But most of Lopez's criminal history which includes 20 criminal charges dating back to 2003, according to state court records falls outside of the 10-year window or included crimes not listed in the now-void city ordinances. In his only three criminal cases since 2012, Lopez was accused of misdemeanor crimes that included no insurance, improper registration and theft of services under $500, according to court records. The outdated nature of most of Lopez's prior criminal cases also seemingly helped him secure a job with the city, which hired him July 20 as a recreational aide at the community center, where he worked directly with children, including the teens he's accused of physically assaulting Sunday. The city's human resources department performed a background check July 5 that included a check of his statewide criminal history for the past seven years, a multi-court jurisdictional database and a nationwide federal criminal database and the national sex offender registry, among other sources, said Barb McIntyre, the city's HR director. Nothing in these reports disqualified him from employment," McIntyre said in a written statement. Lopez's wife, who filed for divorce earlier this month, in January asked Douglas County Judge W. Russell Bowie to prohibit Lopez from possessing or purchasing a firearm, among other would-be restrictions, in an application for a domestic abuse protection order. The 35-year-old woman accused Lopez of physically and verbally abusing her, taking their children from school without cause resulting in "months" of unexcused absences and intervening in medical care. But Bowie dismissed her petition after a hearing on the matter, citing a lack of evidence to support the accusations, according to court filings. The 35-year-old's petition came four months after another Omaha woman sought a harassment protection order against Lopez in September 2022 after, the woman alleged, Lopez had flashed a gun and hurled threats during a child's birthday party that month. The Omaha woman said she had called the police, who fielded a report and recommended she seek the protection order, which a judge signed, prohibiting Lopez from contacting the family for a year, according to court filings. But unlike those granted in cases of domestic violence, harassment protection orders in Nebraska don't prohibit the subjects of such orders from possessing a gun. Photos: Last day of the 108th Nebraska Legislature Lincoln's fire department will add 18 paramedics and EMTs to its ranks later this year thanks to a $5.9 million federal grant unveiled Thursday that will fund the latest increase to a workforce that has grown by more than 35% since 2017. The influx of new firefighters who will be hired later this year and begin serving city residents next spring will leave Lincoln Fire and Rescue with 356 full-time equivalent employees, including 338 sworn paramedics and EMTs, Chief Dave Engler said at a news conference Thursday. Once they are hired, the city will have added 73 responders to the fire department's ranks since 2017, after adding only eight in the previous 25 years. "This is big," Engler said at the news conference, where city officials announced Lincoln had received the Federal Emergency Management Agency grant. Among the 18 additions, Engler said he hopes to hire 10 to 15 paramedics who are generally harder to recruit than EMTs, a classification that takes about a year less of schooling than it does to become a certified paramedic. Engler said adding the new hires won't lead to an additional paramedic unit or fire engine. Instead, the department will assign six of the incoming responders to each of the department's three shifts to fill vacancies created by sick days and vacation time that previously went unfilled or were staffed by responders working overtime. "Overtime for a while is good, but a lot of it creates some morale issues," Engler said. "So what this will do is it'll help us backfill those positions and keep our rigs at the staffing levels that we desire." The Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response or SAFER grant the city received will pay for three years of salaries and benefits for the 18 new firefighters. The grant also covers uniform allowance, among other "contractual items" it will fund, Engler said. It won't cover more specialized equipment costs, though. Tom Beckius, the chair of Lincoln's City Council, said the city plans to provide the fire department with funding to keep the 18 positions beyond the three-year grant period. "That's something that we're currently thinking about as we think about budgeting for the city of Lincoln on the horizon, but once again, that's a few years out," he said. "But that's a commitment that the City Council has spoken about internally and is willing to make." The new hires will arrive in Lincoln as city and labor officials brace for an expected paramedic shortage and grapple with an increased call volume in the growing city. LFR was called for service 32,440 times in 2022 an increase of 2,500 calls over 2021 and an increase of more than 10,000 calls compared with 2013, when Lincoln had about 30,000 fewer residents, according to department data and a decade's worth of annual reports. Still, the agency has emerged as one of the leading life-saving emergency service providers in the country, saving cardiac arrest patients at a rate that's more than double the national average. Photos: Firefighters in action Photos: Firefighters in Action Photos: Firefighters in Action Photos: Firefighters in Action Photos: Firefighters in Action Photos: Firefighters in Action Photos: Firefighters in Action Photos: Firefighters in Action Photos: Firefighters in Action Photos: Firefighters in Action Photos: Firefighters in Action Photos: Firefighters in Action Photos: Firefighters in Action Photos: Firefighters in Action First Lady Suzanne Pillen sat in a wooden chair at the front of Prescott Elementary School on Wednesday afternoon hoping to instill the importance of agriculture in Lincoln's children. With the book "Right This Very Minute" by Lisl H. Detlefsen in hand, Pillen set out to teach the 35 kindergarten through fifth grade students at Prescott's Community Learning Center how Nebraska farmers feed the world. The children's book tells the story of how farmers are the reason food is put on the table without agriculture, the pancakes, trail mix, salads and cheeseburgers pictured in the book wouldn't exist. "This book is basically a book about food that starts on the farm and how it gets to your table, it's what you eat," she told the students. Pillen plans to continue reading this story to students across the state from the Panhandle to eastern Nebraska through her new initiative, Bushels of Stories. On Monday, Gov. Jim Pillen proclaimed Sept. 25-29 to be Agriculture Literacy Week in Nebraska, marking the start of the initiative with Nebraska Agriculture in the Classroom, a statewide initiative to promote awareness and understanding of agriculture in the classroom. During her time as first lady, Pillen has made it her mission to share books about agriculture with Nebraska's youths in an effort to teach them more about where their food comes from. "I knew literacy was really important to me and our family," she told the Journal Star. "The first place I went, kids had no idea what sound cows make, what sound a pig makes. So, it made me realize that this will be really important." Throughout the week, Pillen has traveled across the state to visit schools in Scottsbluff, Columbus and Lincoln to read agriculture-based stories to students. Before Prescott Elementary, Pillen visited Messiah Lutheran School and St. Peter Catholic School in Lincoln. So far, she has stopped in nine schools with plans to visit as many as she can through the initiative. Pillen partnered with Courtney Shreve, director of outreach education at the Nebraska Farm Bureau, to create the new initiative. Shreve provides the books and helps coordinate with schools. "I just hope that by the First Lady going in and reading books, we can make a difference in helping people understand more about agriculture," Shreve said. At the end of every visit, Pillen donates the signed book to be placed in the school library for even more children to read, enjoy and learn from. Most of all, Pillen hopes students always remember to appreciate the work farmers do. "Make sure in your day, every day, you tell somebody that does something for you that you appreciate them, and tell them thank you." Photos: The business of governing in Nebraska in 2023 KENOSHA The Carthage College Choir, Wind Orchestra and Sesquicentennial Alumni Band are featured in a special Homecoming Concert. The free program is 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30, in A.F. Siebert Chapel on the campus, 2001 Alford Park Drive. This years concert kicks off a yearlong celebration to commemorate the start of the Carthage Band 150 years ago in 1873. Former conductors of the band Kenneth Winkle and Woodrow Hodges will share the podium with Margaret Burk and James Ripley for this event. The concert will open with selections by the Carthage Choir, under the direction of Burk. "Wade in the Water," an African American jubilee song or spiritual, as arranged by Moses Hogan, will begin the concert, followed by Jake Runestads hopeful "Let My Love Be Heard" and the evocative "Dendang Alam Khatulistiwa" by Ken Steven. That piece uses imitations of bird calls and running water in its portrayal of equatorial Indonesia. Music to be performed by the Wind Orchestra during the anniversary year recognizes the history and traditions of the Carthage Band. John Zdechliks "Psalm 46" piece is based on Martin Luthers "A Mighty Fortress is Our God" and honors the colleges historic connection to the Lutheran Church. Born in 1873, W.C. Handys familiar "St. Louis Blues" will be performed in a setting arranged by James Reece Europe for his World War I military band, The Harlem Hellfighters. Alumni Band The Sesquicentennial Alumni Band will begin its portion of the program with Carthage Band Director Ripley conducting Alfred Reeds A Festival Prelude. Reeds compositions are among the most frequently performed by the Carthage Band over the years. As 1873 also marks the anniversary of the birth of Sergei Rachmaninoff, the Alumni Band will play his Italian Polka, conducted by Hodges. Ripley will also lead the band on Jonathan Newmans 1861, based on the hymn tune Lead Me Lord." Closing the bands portion of the concert will be Winkle conducting John Philip Sousas Review march, his first to be published, also dating from 1873. Culminating the event will be the combined Carthage Choir and Bands in a performance of Ralph Vaughan Williams "The Old Hundredth Psalm Tune," originally written for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, 80 years after the start of the band at Carthage. The concert is free and open to the public. No tickets are required. For more information, call the Fine Arts Box Office at 262-551-6661 from noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. There will also be a free livestream available for those who want to watch the performance from home. You can watch the livestream at carthage.edu/news-events/watch-live/. CITY OF BURLINGTON The City of Burlington announced Monday it will end its emergency medical services contract with the Town of Burlington. In 2019, a volunteer EMS service called the Burlington Rescue Squad dissolved after 70 years of service to both the city and the town. The service dissolved because of an increased demand, in part because of the aging demographics of the community, according to a press release from the city. After the Burlington Rescue Squad discontinued, the city and the town entered into an EMS contract. However, the city said the original contract was heavily reliant on their taxpayers, and in December 2021, the city entered into discussions with the town to try to renegotiate the original contract, according to the release. In negotiations, the City of Burlington said it asked the town to pay its proportionate share to run the joint EMS service and recommended the town do due diligence on potential vendors to ensure town residents were getting the best deal possible. On Dec. 27, 2022, the city sent a letter to the town stating that the original contract would expire on Dec. 31, 2023. The city said it expected to have a mutually beneficial agreement in early 2023, according to the release. The release also said the city negotiated with members of the town well into 2023 and offered to meet with the Town Board to explain the calculation of the towns shared costs without avail. The city said they were unsuccessful with negotiations with the town and that the town requested a payment that fell short of its proportionate share. Like many communities today, the town is faced with dramatically increasing costs, Rachel Naber, town administrator for the Town of Burlington, said. In this particular matter, the increase proposed simply was not in the towns best interest, its a complex problem. The EMS contract between the town and the city will end on Dec. 31, and Racine County dispatch will serve the Town of Burlington once the contract expires. Planet or Plastic? on display at the Kenosha Public Museum is designed to shine a spotlight on the fragility of the natural environment due to the global plastic waste crisis, according to exhibit organizers. The exhibition was developed by the National Geographic Society and is made up of 70 photographs and a video, all used to raise awareness of societys dependence on plastic by visually depicting the crisis. As visitors walk through the second-floor gallery space, they will also learn about individuals, and communities, working on solutions to this urgent problem. While plastic waste is a huge problem around the world, plastic has largely changed life for the better, according to experts in the field. This material has eased space travel and revolutionized medicine. It lightens every car and airplane, saving fuel and reducing pollution. Plastic film extends the shelf life of fresh food. Plastic water bottles allow the delivery of clean drinking water to those without it. When used in airbags, incubators and helmets, plastic literally saves lives. So, whats the problem?The trouble comes when all that plastic is tossed out and piles up. Literally, its often stacked in piles. The global population churns out disposable plastic products at breakneck speed and few are disposed of properly. Some 6.3 billion tons of plastic waste has gone unrecycled. Dumped on land or in rivers, lightweight plastic blows or washes away, winding up in the sea. No one knows how much unrecycled plastic is currently floating in Earths oceans, but as much as 14 million tons of plastic makes its way there each year. This waste kills millions of marine animals and has other far-reaching environmental effects. The truly scary part? No one knows how long it will take for the plastic to biodegrade into its constituent molecules. Estimates range from 450 years to never. However, experts in the field are working on ways to continue to use plastic and live in a clean environment, too. That change will come through scientific innovation and policy changes, but first humans have to choose: Planet or plastic? How you can helpLet go of plastic wrap. Instead, cover leftovers with a reusable wax wrap, aluminum foil, or store them in glass containers. Cut out disposable plastic cutlery. Instead, use biodegradable or compostable versions, or better yet, carry your own set of reusables. Pass on plastic bottles. Instead, invest in a refillable water bottle. A handful of cities, including Bundanoon, Australia, and San Francisco, California, have banned or partially banned bottled water. Around the world, nearly a million plastic beverage bottles are sold every minute. Avoid plastic packaging. Some examples: Buy bar soap instead of liquid. Buy in bulk. Avoid produce sheathed in plastic. Recycle what you can. Find local programs and educate yourself about how to do it. Dont litter. Worldwide, 73 percent of beach litter is plastic: cigarette butts, food wrappers, bottles, bags, polystyrene containers, and more. In 2016, the Ocean Conservancy collected 9,200 tons of trash off beaches in 112 countries, but thats a tiny fraction of what enters the ocean each year. Take your own reusable bags to the store. A trillion plastic shopping bags are used worldwide every year, and 100 billion in the United States alone, adding up to almost one per American per day. On Tuesday, September 26th, California Governor Gavin Newsom hosted a signing ceremony in Sacramento where he signed multiple anti-gun bills into law, most notably: an 11% excise tax on all firearms and ammunition; vastly expanded concealed carry restrictions; and a renewed attempt to implement mandatory microstamping in semi-automatic firearms. During the event, Governor Newsom likened the excise tax on firearms to a 'sin tax,' clearly demonstrating his prejudice against the Second Amendment and those who wish to lawfully exercise their rights. The bills signed into law today include: Senate Bill 2, among other things, creates new subjective criteria for the issuance of carry permits to allow authorities to arbitrarily deny applicants, restricts permit holders by allowing them to carry only handguns registered to themselves, increases the requirements to apply for a permit, and increases "gun-free zones" where law-abiding citizens are left defenseless. Senate Bill 452, sets forth the process to prohibit non-microstamped semi-automatic pistols from being sold through licensed dealers if the Department of Justice determines the technology is viable and available by 2028. In addition, it also prohibits replacing a microstamping component on such a handgun, unless it is replaced with another "valid" microstamping component. In recent months, a federal court struck down the microstamping requirement, as well as other required features for handgun models to be placed on the California handgun roster. While the attorney general has appealed the decision, he did not appeal the microstamping requirement. To read more about California's microstamping law, please click here.? Assembly Bill 28 places an excise tax of 11% on the sales price of all firearms, firearm precursor parts, and ammunition. These taxes are to be collected from California retailers and placed in a newly created "gun violence" fund for appropriation by the state legislature. It is unjust to saddle law-abiding gun owners with special taxes. Such a measure makes it more expensive for law-abiding citizens to exercise a constitutional right and discourages them from practicing to be safe and proficient with their firearms for purposes such as self-defense, competition, and hunting. Assembly Bill 1089 expands California's ban on private citizens, and non-professional users, making firearms with CNC milling machines, or possessing CNC milling machines that have the "primary" or "intended" function of manufacturing firearms, to also include 3D printers. This is simply another scheme to harass law-abiding hobbyists by preventing them from using modern manufacturing techniques for otherwise lawful purposes. Assembly Bill 1587 requires that credit card issuers use specified Merchant Category Codes to designate firearm and ammunition retailers. These laws will do nothing to impact criminal elements who operate in California; they will only install more roadblocks and hinderances for law-abiding gun owners across the state. 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 KEARNEY On Monday, Cheryl Huttman, chapter coordinator for the Modern Woodman Foundation of America, will present Kearney Noon Rotary Club with a matching grant check for $2,500 to support the Dolly Parton Imagination Library initiative. Kearney Noon Rotary members held a fund drive called Banks Bolstering Books. Ten local banks and one sorority participated to raise $2,800 for the match to Woodmans funds. Representatives from each bank will attend the Kearney Noon Rotary Club luncheon at the Holiday Inn to be recognized for their contributions. Increasing Literacy is a target goal for Kearney Noon Rotary. The Kearney Noon Rotary Imagination Library project is affiliated with the Dolly Parton Foundation. The foundation provides age-appropriate books and Kearney Rotary pays for postage and processing (approximately $30 per child per year). Fundraising promotes the initiative. The Kearney Noon Rotary library project started in September 2022 and has served 593 children. Kearney Noon Rotary Club has mailed over 5,000 free books to Kearney children from birth to age 5, serving 24% of the eligible children in Kearney. Kearney Noon Rotary received the 2023 Nebraska State Literacy Award for promoting family literacy for young children. Kearney Noon Rotary continues to seek grants and donations for the Imagination Library project. Donations can be sent to the Kearney Area Community Foundation EDITOR'S NOTE: How did "The Empire Strikes Back" land when it was released in 1980? We dug into the archives for the original review. Saturday night, the Sioux City Symphony Orchestra will perform the score while the film runs at the Tyson Events Center. Put down the phasers and fend off the Force. The Star Wars sequel The Empire Strikes Back is finally here, and, yes, its every bit as good as the original. To its credit, the film has another rousing John Williams score, a mouth-watering display of special effects and one of the most impressive debut performances by a naturally inanimate object since R2-D2 first beeped its way into the heart of America. The latter creature, an elfin sort who looks like political historian Theodore White, sounds like Miss Piggy, and acts like Burl Ives, figures into the second installment of George Lucas space epic as Luke Skywalkers spiritual leader. Dubbed Yoda, he lives in a relatively modern swampdominium, teaching the young Jedi how to use the Force. While the instruction antics (which closely resemble Merlins bouts with Wart) may fill a good portion of Leigh Brackett and Lawrence Kasdans script, they certainly dont account for the bulk of the films action. Instead, the classic confrontation between good and evil (begun in the first movie) takes care of that. Naturally, Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher, still as droll as ever) is around to cheer on Luke (Mark Hamill) and Han Solo (Harrison Ford) as they battle the demonic Darth Vader. What distinguishes Empires fight from Star Wars isnt a new planetful of characters to defend, but rather an eye-opening plot twist that should keep everyone panting for part 3. Since its a sequel, Empire doesnt need to waste time introducing characters. Nevertheless, it does bring on some Trojan Horse getups that serve as Storm Trooper land crawlers and an abominable snowman who could figure heavily into later adventures. Like a Wookie who just ate, they work. Billy Dee Williams, as the leader of an Emerald City-type cloud inhabitancy, doesnt. Williams doesnt add a sheen to the show, he just gives it a cheap finish. Star Trek may get by with that kind of kitsch, but Star Wars cant. Its the Rolls Royce of serials and it demands the best. Naturally, Fisher, Hamill and Ford give the second film the same dimension not unlike a hologram that made the first shine brighter than an exploding Death Star. As usual, Carrie and Harrison have the best lines. Just as hes about to be frozen, for example, she turns to him and says I love you. Without a trace of emotion, he counters, I know, and exits. Hamill is still delightfully naive, but R2-D2, the beeping trashcan, and C-3PO, the talking Oscar, begin to grate on the nerves after their fourth fuss. Certainly, C-3POs concern was necessary in Star Wars. Empires concentrated plot, however, reveals it to be what it really is meddling. Still, a Star Wars film without the transistorized two wouldnt be a Star Wars film. The legend succeeded because of them. It shouldnt continue without them. In fact, the only really regrettable part of The Empire Strikes Back is its ending. Unlike Star Wars, it doesnt wrap everything up into a nice droidian package. For some people, another three-year wait may not be long. But for those of us who are hooked, itll seem like a millennium. The sequel is a stunner. The sequels sequel cant help but add the final jewel in what should be regarded as a triple crown of populist moviemaking. The public is invited to a guided prairie walk from 7 to 9 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 7, to gaze at the planets and stars from the hilltop trail at Tunnelville Cliffs nature preserve near La Farge in Vernon County. According to the Mississippi Valley Conservancy press release, the Prairie Stargazing Walk is on a relatively flat trail. The event is part of the conservancys Linked to the Land series of outdoor learning experiences in the Driftless Area. This walk will be led by John Heasley, founder of Driftless Stargazing, a popular online destination for local stargazing fans. Tunnelville Cliffs is a 1,118-acre nature preserve with public access on the Kickapoo River near La Farge. The site includes springs, creeks, over 9,000 feet of frontage on the river, forests, cliffs, prairie, sedge meadow, and open grasslands. The property is surrounded by additional protected lands, providing a vast wildlife refuge of 2,278 contiguous acres. Advanced registration is required by Oct. 3 at www.mississippivalleyconservancy.org/events. Details and directions to the meet-up location will be provided. What to bring, wear Bring curiosity and willingness to explore, a red flashlight (if you dont have one, red film will be provided for use with your regular flashlight), binoculars, and insect repellent. Long pants and closed-toed shoes are recommended. Feel free to bring a folding chair or a blanket to prevent neck strain. ABOUT MISSISSIPPI VALLEY CONSERVANCY Founded in 1997, Mississippi Valley Conservancy is a nationally accredited nonprofit regional land trust that has permanently protected more than 25,000 acres of scenic lands in southwestern Wisconsin by working with landowners, businesses and local communities on voluntary conservation projects. The focus of the Conservancy is to conserve the bluffs, forests, prairies, wetlands, streams and farms that enrich our communities, for the health and well-being of current and future generations. www.mississippivalleyconservancy.org. COON VALLEYCynthia Cindy Ann Manske, age 67, of Coon Valley passed away unexpectedly on Friday, September 22, 2023. She was born on August 30, 1956, to the late George and Evonell (Sagmoen) Wyman. Cindy attended Bloomingdale Elementary School and graduated from Westby High School. After graduating, she received her associate degree as a secretary with academic honors from Western Wisconsin Technical Institute in 1976. On August 16, 1975, Cindy married DuWayne Manske at Westby Coon Prairie Lutheran Church. They lived their whole lives in Coon Valley where they raised their two boys. Cindy worked as a secretary for Trane Co. in La Crosse for 40 years until her retirement. She was involved in many different organizations, including being part of the knitting circle, book club, and playing Bunko at the library, singing in the choir, and reading during church services at Coon Valley Lutheran Church. Cindy enjoyed playing Mexican Train with her good friend, Hannah, and discussing books she would listen to with her son, Tony, and assisting Jamie in the office at Coon Valley Lutheran Church. She was the pie maker of the family, known for having small recipes written down in her kitchen that she wanted to try. Cindy traveled to the east coast many times to visit her son and his family. When Cindy visited her granddaughters, she always made sure they could spend a special day together. She enjoyed travelling to the west coast to visit her sister, Sandy, and to Nebraska for family reunions. Family was the most important thing to Cindy, especially her two sons, Tony and Brian, of which she was immensely proud of. Cindy will be greatly missed for her kind and soft heart and for always having a loving, selfless, and positive attitude towards her family, friends, and life. Her beautiful smile will be remembered by all who were able to experience the kind nature of Cindy. Cindy is survived by her two sons, Tony (Gabrielle) and Brian; two granddaughters, Madison and Davynn; her siblings: David, Dale (Julie), Sandra, Daniel (Pandora), Andrew (Cherice), and Scott (Kim); and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, DuWayne; two nephews, Devon and Ethan; and her father-in-law, Arlin Manske. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 29, 2023, at Coon Valley Lutheran Church. A luncheon will be held at the church after the service. A visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 28, 2023, at Vosseteig Funeral Home in Westby. The family of Cindy would like to invite everyone to wear some sort of purple as it was her favorite color. A private burial will be held at Dell Cemetery. Online condolences may be expressed at www.vossfh.com. A 38-year-old La Crosse man has been bound over for trial after he allegedly battered a woman. Leonard E. Jordan was charged in La Crosse County Circuit Court with felony counts of strangulation/suffocation, intimidating a witness/use of force and substantial battery/intent to cause bodily harm, and misdemeanor counts of battery and disorderly conduct. According to the criminal complaint, police were called Aug. 19 to a La Crosse residence, where a woman said Jordan had struck her during a domestic incident two days earlier. The complaint says the womans eyes were swollen nearly shut and that she had bruising around her eyes and throat. She later drove herself to a hospital and was diagnosed with a nasal fracture. The complaint says the woman was hesitant to discuss what occurred and feared retaliation from Jordan or his friends. She told police Jordan was enraged about reading text messages on her cellphone and backhanded her at least five times. She said the assault ended when she told Jordan she was tired and needed to sleep. The woman said she didnt immediately call police because Jordan told her he would go back to prison if police were involved. She said Jordan had previously threatened to kill her children if she called police. Police made contact with Jordan at his residence later in the day. He reportedly told police the woman sustained the injuries during a traffic crash. Police had observed dents in the womans vehicle while following her to the hospital but determined the damage occurred before Aug. 17. The complaint says Jordan denied hitting or choking the woman. Jordan is free on a $2,000 signature bond with a no-contact provision. He was bound over for trial during a Sept. 26 preliminary hearing. His next court date is an Oct. 13 pre-trial conference. Wisconsin Poet Laureate Nick Gulig will hold a public reading followed by a question-and-answer session with audience members at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5, in the Viterbo University Fine Arts Center Nola Starling Recital Hall. A Thai-American poet from Wisconsin, Gulig has won numerous awards for his work, according to a Viterbo press release. Established in 2000, the Wisconsin Poet Laureate plays a crucial role in keeping the arts accessible and vital to all age groups and acts as a statewide emissary for poetry and creativity. Guligis is a faculty member at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. He earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Montana, a masters degree from the University of Iowa Writers Workshop, and a doctorate from the University of Denver. He was also a Fulbright Scholar to Thailand in 2011. The lecture is a partnership between the Viterbo D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership, English department, and honors program. It is free and open to the public. Wisconsins Family Care program, already confronting a caregiver shortage in serving people with disabilities and the frail elderly on Medicaid, faces more uncertainty as for-profit companies acquire two of four local nonprofits that run the program, advocates said Wednesday. People are concerned about quality. Theyre concerned about access, said Patti Jo Becker, co-chair of the Survival Coalition of Wisconsin Disability Organizations. Louisville, Kentucky-based Humanas purchase of Inclusa, of Stevens Point, has passed state agency reviews. Molina Healthcare, based in Long Beach, California, said this month it completed its acquisition of My Choice Wisconsin, of Wauwatosa, which has a sizable presence in Dane County. Brookfield-based Community Care, one of the two remaining local nonprofits, is talking to potential partners, including national insurance companies, as it tries to stay viable, CEO Kenneth Munson said. The Humana and Molina acquisitions have changed the competitive landscape, Munson said during a Wisconsin Health News panel discussion about Family Care. How do we compete? Meanwhile, a bill requiring long-term care facilities to give residents 90 days of notice, instead of 30 days, for evictions sometimes occurring as providers exit Family Care, claiming rates are too low had a hearing last week in the state Legislature. Family Care, which started in 2000 as an alternative to county-run services, provides home care, transportation, job support and other services to about 58,000 people to keep them out of nursing homes. The program has helped Wisconsin retain a good reputation for long-term care, with the state ranking third nationally on a 2020 scorecard. But a caregiver shortage, fueled by low wages and few benefits, is causing delays and wait lists for care, advocates and providers say. The average hourly wage for such direct-care workers is $13.53, according to a state report, though some get up to $18 to $20 for some types of care through certain programs. With employers such as Kwik Trip often offering higher wages, providers are just not able to compete, said Lisa Davidson, CEO of the Madison-based Disability Service Provider Network. The state budget passed this summer boosted wages for direct-care workers in Family Care by 5%, which advocates said helps but doesnt go far enough. Now, the entrance of Humana and Molina in the market could further alter Family Care, which years ago was run by more than 10 nonprofits around the state. Lakeland Care, the other remaining nonprofit, in Fond du Lac, is also talking to national insurers and other potential partners, CEO Sara Muhlbauer said. Jamie Kuhn, Wisconsins Medicaid director, said the Department of Health Services is working on a minimum fee schedule to make sure Family Care providers get paid enough. But the Legislature needs to approve it, she said. The agency has boosted training and certification for certified nurse assistants to make the job more of a career path, Kuhn said. To address concerns about Humana and Molina, she said DHS has strengthened its contracts with the companies, such as requiring them to maintain at least 50% of their staff in Wisconsin and requiring six months notice, rather than 90 days, to terminate a contract. Eviction notices Some assisted living facilities have evicted residents with short notice after facility operators decided to leave Family Care, sometimes to switch from lower Medicare payments to higher rates from private-pay residents. Cedarhurst of Madison told two dozen residents last October they had to move within 60 days, the Wisconsin State Journal reported at the time. Emerald Bay Retirement Community in Hobart, near Green Bay, gave 15 residents 30 days notice in February that they had to find another place to live. Three weeks after moving to another facility, a 91-year-woman with dementia who had been at Emerald Bay died, with her daughter saying her decline was precipitated by the move, the Washington Post reported. State Rep. Joy Goeben, R-Hobart, and state Sen. Robert Cowles, R-Green Bay, are lead sponsors of the bill requiring 90 days notice of eviction, instead of 30 days. At a hearing before the Senate health committee last week, long-term care associations said theyre opposed to the idea, saying it could make them accept low Medicaid rates longer during negotiations with managed care organizations. Goeben, in written testimony, said residents and families deserve more time. Consider the amount of stress that could be alleviated or prevented if residents and their families were given a reasonable amount of time to make arrangements, she said. Sept. 27, 2023, (EIRNS)Proclaiming that the new era calls for new ideas, the State Council Information Office of the Peoples Republic of China issued a 40-page White Paper on Sept. 26 under the headline: A Global Community of Shared Future: Chinas Proposals and Actions. It is a major policy document geared to address the unprecedented crisis facing mankind with a proposal for an entirely new set of international relations based on fundamental philosophical principles and a universal concept of man. The timing of its release indicates it will be at the center of deliberations of the upcoming October Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing (no firm date has been made public yet). The paper notes: By July 2023, more than three-quarters of countries in the world and over 30 international organizations had signed agreements on Belt and Road cooperation with China.... The BRI originated in China, but the opportunities and achievements it creates belong to the whole world. The document repeatedly stresses the universality of Mankind, as opposed to the Hobbesian war of each against all, as the key to solving to current crisis: In the universe there is only one Earth, the shared home of humanity.... Whether human civilization can survive these has become an existential issue that must be squarely faced.... The vision of a global community of shared future bears in mind the wellbeing of all humanity. It is based on both observation of the present and visionary planning for the future.... This vision serves the common interests of humanity.... Our world is undergoing change on a scale unseen in a century.... Instability, uncertainty, and unpredictability are now the norm.... The shadow of the arms race lingers on, and the threat of nuclear warthe Sword of Damocles that hangs over humanityremains. Our world is at risk of plunging into confrontation and even war.... Some countries hegemonic, abusive, and aggressive actions against others, in the form of swindling, plundering, oppression, and the zero-sum game, are causing great harm.... The new era calls for new ideas.... It is increasingly obvious that the idea that all strong countries will seek hegemony, the obsession with superior strength, and the zero-sum mentality are in conflict with the needs of our times.... The strong preying on the weak is not a way for humans to coexist. If the law of the jungle is imposed on human society, and the idea that might makes right prevails, the principle of sovereign equality will be fundamentally undermined, and world peace and stability will be severely endangered.... Standing at a crossroads, humanity is faced with two opposing options. One is to revert to the Cold War mentality that deepens division and antagonism and stokes confrontation between blocs. The other is to act for the common wellbeing of humanity, strengthen solidarity and cooperation, advocate openness and win-win results, and promote equality and respect. The tug of war between these two options will shape the future of humanity and our planet in a profound way.... Harmony is the core concept of Chinese culture, which values the primacy of harmony and harmony within diversity, pursues the ideal of harmony and solidarity towards common progress, and embraces cultural diversity and global harmony.... incorporating the outstanding achievements of other civilizations.... Ancient Greek philosophers conducted primary research on this concept based on city-states, believing that humanity as one community should act in concert to pursue common interests and thus must live in harmony. Ancient Indian literature records the motto of Under Heavenone family. The African philosophy of Ubuntu holds that I am because we are, emphasizing interdependence of humanity. The concept of a global community of shared future reflects the common interests of all civilizationspeace, development, unity, coexistence, and win-win cooperation.... From the principle of equity and sovereignty established by the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, to international humanitarianism established by the Geneva Conventions in 1864, then to the four purposes and seven principles established by the Charter of the United Nations in 1945, and later to the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence proposed at the Bandung Conference in 1955, these norms of international relations have evolved into widely recognized principles and become the essential foundations of a global community of shared future.... China has pushed for the conclusion of a joint statement among the leaders of the five nuclear-weapon states, reaffirming that a nuclear war cannot be won, and must never be fought.... When all countries unite in pursuing the cause of common good, plan together, and act together day by day towards the right direction of building a global community of shared future, we can build an open, inclusive, clean, and beautiful world of lasting peace, universal security and shared prosperity, and jointly create a better future for all of humanity. EIR LEAD EDITORIAL FOR THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 There Is No Third Option Sept. 27, 2023, (EIRNS)The military quagmire in Ukraine, combined with the onrushing breakdown of the entire trans-Atlantic financial systemwhich now includes the takeover by predatory hedge funds of the $25 trillion market in U.S. Treasurieshas brought the world to a crossroads. In her Sept. 27 weekly Dialogue webcast, Schiller Institute founder Helga Zepp-LaRouche underscored the importance of widely circulating the Aug. 28 proposal by four German experts, Ending the War with a Negotiated Peace. That article, she stressed, argues that very soon NATO will be faced with a decision of recognizing the fact that the military operation in Ukraine failed, and that the counter-offensive by Ukraine also failed, and that leaves only two options. One is immediate negotiations for a diplomatic solution; secondly, an escalation which may quickly bring the world to the level of a nuclear catastrophe. I think that is, indeed, the choice. Those behind the second, deadly option were on lurid display in last weeks in-your-face cavorting by NATO-member Canadas government and Parliament with a self-proclaimed soldier with the Ukrainian 14th Waffen Grenadier Division of Hitlers SS. The Russian government understands what they are dealing with. On Sept. 26, Dmitry Medvedev, former President and current Deputy Chairman of Russias Security Council, warned that NATO has evolved into an openly fascist alliance, resembling Hitlers Axis, albeit on a larger scale. We are prepared, although the outcome may come at a much higher cost to humanity than in 1945. A White Paper issued by the Chinese government on Sept. 26, A Global Community of Shared Future: Chinas Proposals and Actions, likewise warned of the imminent danger of nuclear war, if the current crisis is not resolved. Our world is undergoing change on a scale unseen in a century, the policy paper stated. The shadow of the arms race lingers on, and the threat of nuclear warthe Sword of Damocles that hangs over humanityremains. The lengthy Chinese document did not linger on the danger, but went on to elaborate a global proposal for peace and development, resonant with the policies presented over decades by Lyndon LaRouche and the Schiller Institute, including an emphasis on the 1648 Treaty of Westphalia. Arguing that the new era calls for new ideas, the White Paper repeatedly stressed the universality of Mankind, as opposed to the Hobbesian war of each against all, as the key to solving to current crisis. A new study has warned that warming ocean temperatures could threaten some of the largest fish in the sea. Many scientists believe warming waters are directly linked to the effects of climate change. Research has shown that rising sea temperatures are especially dangerous for larger fish because warmer waters can harm their open-water environments. In one recent study, researchers estimated some larger fish species could lose up to 70 percent of their environment, or habitat, by the year 2100. These habitat losses could largely remove some of the most economically valuable fish species. The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in Massachusetts carried out the study. The warning comes after temperatures around the world reached record highs in July. Some scientists blame the Pacific Ocean current known as El Nino for the recent heat waves. El Nino is a warming of surface water temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific Ocean. The event usually causes hot, dry weather in Asia and Australia. It can also lead to heavier rain in the southern U.S. and southern parts of South America. Large fish such as marlin, skipjack and others live in areas considered among the fastest warming. Camrin Braun is an ocean scientist and the lead writer of the Woods Hole study. He told the Associated Press that temperatures in those environments are expected to rise as much as six degrees Celsius by the end of the century. Such increases would likely start a widespread displacement of the animals, Braun said. For sure, their habitat will change. How they respond to that is an open question, he added. Climate scientists have been studying the heating of the world's oceans for many years. Earlier in 2023, average ocean surface temperatures climbed two-tenths of a degree Celsius in a period of just a few weeks. The jump surprised even scientists who are used to seeing continued rising temperatures. For large species, longer periods of warming can be harmful because of the animals temperature needs, said Janet Duffy-Anderson. She is chief scientific officer at the Gulf of Maine Research Institute in Portland, Maine. Duffy-Anderson said large fish are often highly migratory. Increased warming could result in some species moving to northern or deeper waters in search of normal temperatures, she added. The Gulf of Maine lies off the northeastern US and Canada. It is warming especially quickly. This is expected to cause big population movements, especially for species of marlin and tuna. Large fish are important to healthy oceans because many of them, such as white sharks, are predators serving as critical pieces of the top of the food chain. Some species are also economically important to humans as food. The possible loss of large fish is one of the many results of warming oceans that scientists have warned about this year. One study said the collapse of ocean currents that transport heat northward across the North Atlantic could happen by mid-century. In Florida, federal ocean researchers said some ocean coral were losing their color weeks earlier than normal because of record temperatures. Penny Becker is with the Seattle-based environmental group Island Conservation. She told the AP the threat to large fish is another reason to raise awareness about the different ways climate change is affecting sea life. If you're missing these components of these larger fish species, that's a missing hole in the ecosystem, Becker said. Im Bryan Lynn. The Associated Press reported this story. Bryan Lynn adapted the report for VOA Learning English. ________________________________________ Words in This Story species n. a group of animals or plants that are similar and can produce young animals or plants predator n. an animal that hunts and kills other animals for food food chain n. a series of living things in which each group eats organisms from the group lower than itself in the series component n. one of the parts of a system, process or machine Los Alamos in the Southwestern American state of New Mexico is where the U.S. government set up its secret mission to develop nuclear weapons during World War II. Eighty years later, it is the home to huge government research and development laboratories. Now, Los Alamos National Laboratory is taking part in the nations largest nuclear weapons effort since World War II. The aim is to modernize Americas nuclear weapons. New workers there are producing an important part of nuclear weapons plutonium cores. The government has given jobs to about 3,300 workers in the last two years. The workforce is now over 17,270. Close to half of the workers live in some other part of New Mexico. The population of Los Alamos nearly doubles during the workweek. While new technology has changed the way work is done at Los Alamos, some things remain the same. Secrecy and a sense of duty that came in the 1940s are still part of the community. James Owen is an engineer. He has spent more than 25 years working in the nuclear weapons program. What we do is meaningful. This isnt a job, its a vocation and theres a sense of contribution that comes with that, Owens told The Associated Press. He added, The downside is, we cant tell people about all the cool things we do here. While the main goal of Los Alamos is maintaining Americas nuclear weapons, the research center also works in other areas. These include energy, national security, space exploration, supercomputing, efforts to limit disease, and threats from computer attacks. Employees say their work is necessary because of worldwide political insecurity. Most people in Los Alamos are connected to the laboratories, so opposition is rare. But groups that follow nuclear development, such as activists and nonprofit organizations, question the need for nuclear weapons and the increasing costs. Greg Mello is director of the Los Alamos Study Group. It is an organization that has disagreed with the laboratory over safety, security and cost concerns. He said, For some time, Los Alamosans have seemed numbed out Chistopher Nolans recently released film Oppenheimer brought new attention to the town. The attention increased support for an effort to expand the federal governments radiation compensation program for a group of people in several western states. The group includes people in southern New Mexico where the Trinity Test of the first atomic bomb took place in 1945. In July, the U.S. Senate voted to expand the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, which would pay money to people who might have been affected by nuclear-related activity in the U.S. The activist groups argue that the federal governments modernization effort has already gone above spending predictions. Additionally, they say the effort has taken years longer than planned. Independent government researchers released a report earlier this month that showed the growing costs and delays. Owen said officials feel a sense of urgency because of increasing threats around the world. Whats being asked is that we all need to do better in a faster amount of time, he said. Im Gregory Stachel. Susan Montoya Bryan reported this story for The Associated Press. Gregory Stachel adapted the story for VOA Learning English. ____________________________________________________ Words in This Story core n. a part that has been removed from a material for scientific study vocation n. a strong desire to spend your life doing a certain kind of work (such as religious work) contribute v. to give (something, such as money, goods, or time) to help a person, group, cause, or organization maintain v. to keep (something) in good condition by making repairs or correcting problems numb adj. unable to think, feel, or react normally because of something that shocks or upsets you compensation n. something that is done or given to make up for damage or trouble THURSDAY, Sept. 28, 2023 (HealthDay News) An advisory panel to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday voted resoundingly against recommending a stem cell-based experimental treatment for ALS. Although the FDA isn't bound by the votes of its advisory panels, agency scientists have already penned a scathing review of the drug, called NuOwn. The application from Brainstorm, the company that developed the treatment, was scientifically incomplete and grossly deficient, FDA staff scientists wrote in the review. Meanwhile, the advisory panel voted 17-1 against the drug to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrigs disease. Only a panelist representing patients voted for the medication, while one adviser abstained from voting, the Associated Press reported. Creating false hope can be considered a moral injury and the use of statistical magic or manipulation to provide false hope is problematic, Lisa Lee, a bioethics and research integrity expert from Virginia Tech who voted against the treatment said, the AP reported. ALS is typically fatal within three to five years of a patients first symptoms, as the condition destroys nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, taking away the ability to walk, talk, swallow and breathe. The FDA agreed to convene the advisory panel in response to a 30,000-signature petition from ALS patients and advocates. But a study from Brainstorm involving 200 patients did not show that NurOwn extended life, slowed disease or improved patient mobility, the AP reported. Not only that, but Brainstorms application was missing details on manufacturing and quality control, the AP reported. It really is a disease that needs a safe and effective treatment and there are a lot of other prospects out there that we need to encourage. Approving one like this would get in the way of that, Dr. Kenneth Fischbeck, a distinguished investigator in the Hereditary Neurological Diseases branch of the National Institutes of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, said, the AP reported. ALS patients, family members and physicians spoke during the public comment period. This included several who presented before-and-after videos of ALS patients from Brainstorms study who were seen walking and climbing stairs, the AP reported. When Matt is on Nurown it helps him, when hes off of it, he gets worse, said Mitze Klingenberg, speaking on behalf of her son, Matt Klingenberg, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2018. The FDA has approved two other ALS medications, Qalsody and Reylvrio, this past year following a 20-year drought of new options. More information The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke has more on ALS. SOURCE: Associated Press Riots have broken out on the streets of south London after a woman was shot and seriously injured in a house search. Armed officers raided a house in Brixton early this morning looking for a man in connection with a robbery. Crowds began to gather outside the districts police station when news broke the police had accidentally shot the mans mother, Cherry Groce, in her bed with apparently no warning. Local people had already been very critical of police tactics in Brixton and a mood of tension exploded into violence as night fell. Dozens of officers dressed in riot gear were injured as they were attacked by groups of mainly black youths with bricks and wooden stakes. The rioters also set alight a barricade of cars across the Brixton Road with petrol bombs and some looted shops in nearby streets. The suspected armed robber was not home when the police raided his address and Scotland Yard described the shooting of his mother as a tragic accident. One of Mrs Groces daughters told the BBC everything happened very quickly. It was a loud noise that made me run down the stairs by the time I got down there were three police dogs, police rushing everywhere and one of them had a gun, she said. Mrs Groce is being treated at St Thomas Hospital in central London and her family say the mother-of-six may never walk again. She is just in a state of shock she cannot recall with any great accuracy because it all happened so fast, said her brother Tony Young. A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said it did all it could to prevent mistakes like this, but it had to recognise the increased use of firearms by criminals made errors more likely. Courtesy BBC News In context One person was killed, 50 injured and over 200 arrested during the riots which followed Cherry Groces shooting. Mrs Groce was crippled in the incident and was in hospital for two years. The officer who shot her, Inspector Douglas Lovelock, was cleared of all criminal charges in January 1987 and was reinstated. But a major review of Metropolitan Police gun policy after the incident led to a ban on CID detectives carrying firearms. The new guidelines said only centrally controlled specialist squads like Special Branch would be armed. A raging fire seemingly caused by fireworks set off to celebrate a Christian wedding consumed a hall packed with guests in northern Iraq, killing around 100 people and injuring 150 others as authorities warned yesterday the death toll could still rise. Authorities said that flammable building materials also contributed to the latest disaster to hit Iraqs dwindling Christian minority. In the fires chaotic aftermath, officials offered conflicting death tolls and security officials said they had detained staff at the wedding hall as part of their investigation. The fire happened in the Hamdaniya area of Iraqs Nineveh province, authorities said. Thats a predominantly Christian area just outside of the city of Mosul, some 335 kilometers northwest of Baghdad. There was no official word on the cause of the blaze, but the Kurdish television news channel Rudaw aired footage showing pyrotechnics shooting flames up from the floor of the event and setting a chandelier aflame. Multiple witnesses, including 50-year-old wedding attendee Faten Youssef, said the fire started as the bride and groom began their slow dance. The flames raced through plastic decorations and the ceiling started collapsing, she said. Flames started falling on us, Youssef told The Associated Press. Things were falling down and blocked the way to the exit. She said her family found their way out through a kitchen, after the family struggled through smoke and flames and her son failed to kick through a jammed exit door. It wasnt immediately clear if the bride and groom were among those hurt. Survivors arrived at local hospitals in bandages, receiving oxygen, as their families milled through hallways and outside as workers organized more oxygen cylinders. Some of those burned included children. Ambulance sirens wailed for hours after the fire as paramedics brought out the injured. Extravagant wedding ceremonies are common in Iraq, like many countries in the Middle East. Families often invite hundreds of relatives and members of the broader community, spending heavily on spectacular ceremonies with elaborately decorated halls, music and entertainers, often including pyrotechnics. Casualty figures fluctuated in the hours after the incident, which is common in Iraq. An initial Health Ministry statement, carried by the state-run Iraqi News Agency, said the blaze killed over 100 people and injured 150. Health officials in Nineveh province put the death toll at 114, while Iraqi Interior Minister Abdul Amir al-Shammari later put the death toll at 93. A Health Ministry official, speaking to the AP at midday yesterday on condition of anonymity as he did not have authorization to talk to journalists, said that 30 bodies have been identified by their relatives, but the rest are so badly burned that will require DNA identification. He put the death toll at 94, with around 100 people still receiving medical treatment. The death toll is expected to rise as some are in critical condition, he said. MDT/AP The U.N.s most powerful body must support governments seeking to legally declare the intensifying crackdown by Afghanistans Taliban rulers on women and girls gender apartheid, the head of the U.N. agency promoting gender equality said yesterday [Macau time]. Sima Bahous, executive director of UN Women, told the Security Council that more than 50 increasingly dire Taliban edicts are being enforced with more severity, including by male family members. That is exacerbating mental health issues and suicidal thoughts especially among young women and is shrinking womens decision-making even in their own homes. They tell us that they are prisoners living in darkness, confined to their homes without hope or future, she said. Under international law, apartheid is defined as a system of legalized racial segregation that originated in South Africa. But a growing consensus among international experts, officials and activists says apartheid can also apply to gender in cases like that of Afghanistan, where women and girls face systematic discrimination. We ask you to lend your full support to an intergovernmental process to explicitly codify gender apartheid in international law, Bahous urged the 15-member council, including its five permanent members: the United States, Russia, China, Britain and France. There is no existing international law to respond to mass, state-sponsored gender oppression, Bahous said. But she said the Talibans systemic and planned assault on womens rights must be named, defined and proscribed in our global norms so that we can respond appropriately. The Taliban took power in August 2021 during the final weeks of the U.S. and NATO forces pullout from Afghanistan after 20 years of war. As they did during their previous rule of Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001, the Taliban gradually reimposed their harsh interpretation of Islamic law, or Sharia, barring girls from school beyond the sixth grade and women from almost all jobs, public spaces, gyms and recently closing beauty salons. The Security Council meeting on U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres latest report on Afghanistan took place on the final day of the annual meeting of world leaders at the 193-member U.N. General Assembly. Yesterday, Zabihullah Mujahid, the main spokesman for the Taliban government, slammed the council meeting for focusing on domestic Afghan matters of womens education and their work instead of issues such as security, peace and stability. It was necessary to discuss the end of the blacklist in the United Nations, the removal of sanctions, the release of seized assets, Mujahid said on X, formerly known as Twitter. He said the U.N. gathering should also have discussed the recognition of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan as the Taliban call their government. No country has recognized the Taliban, and the assemblys credentials committee hasnt either, primarily over its effort to relegate women to their homes and failure to form an inclusive government. This has left U.N. recognition with the now-ousted previous government led by Ashraf Ghani. For the third year, its representative did not speak at the high-level gathering. Bahous said that over the past year, UN Women collaborated with the U.N. political mission in Afghanistan known as UNAMA and the U.N. International Office for Migration to interview over 500 Afghan women. The women interviewed said the dramatic shrinking of their influence on decision-making, not just at the national or provincial level but also in their communities and homes, is driven by increased poverty, decreasing financial contribution and the Talibans imposition of hyper-patriarchal gender norms, Bahous said. MDT/AP The number of guests of hotel establishments in August leapt by 234.7% year-on-year to 1.31 million guests. Those from mainland China (968,000), Hong Kong (206,000) and Taiwan (27,000) jumped by 267.3%, 1,200.7% and 1,231.5% respectively. Data from the Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) shows that in the first eight months of 2023, the average occupancy rate of guest rooms of hotel establishments went up by 43.4 percentage points year-on-year to 80.9%. The number of guests soared by 161.2% year-on-year to 8,657,000, while their average length of stay decreased by 0.2 night to 1.7 nights. The total number of available guest rooms grew by 20% to 45,000. The hotel sector is positive that casino resorts in the Cotai area are poised to achieve full occupancy during the upcoming Golden Week. Also, Macau saw 130,000 visitors arriving on package tours in August. In the first eight months of 2023, the number of visitors arriving on package tours totaled 607,000, and that of Macau residents purchasing outbound services through travel agencies rocketed by 1,001.3% year-on-year to 259,000. Visitors totaled 3.22 million in August, a rise of 16.7% month-on-month, as tourists flocked to the region amid summer holidays. Staff Reporter The foreign minister of Belarus, which has a strategic partnership with Russia, says he cannot envision a situation where his country would enter the war in Ukraine alongside Russian forces. Sergei Aleinik said in an interview with The Associated Press that he also cant imagine a situation where Russia would order his country to use the tactical nuclear weapons it recently deployed in Belarus. I dont see such an option because it is an instrument of defense primarily, he said of the missiles. But if Belarus was invaded, I will not exclude any instruments to be used to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our country, he said. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, who has relied on Russian subsidies and political support to rule the ex-Soviet nation with an iron hand for nearly three decades, allowed the Kremlin to use Belarusian territory to send troops into Ukraine in February 2022 at the start of the invasion. But Lukashenko has opposed joining the fighting. Aleinik said the stationing of tactical nuclear missiles in Belarus is a response to the very big militarization along its western border. The Polish military, for example, is planning to double its armed forces and bring more heavy weapons to the border, backed by a growing presence of U.S. and other NATO forces, he said. ARE BELARUS LINKS TO RUSSIA ISOLATING IT? The foreign minister disputed the assertions by some opponents that Belarus ties to Russia were isolating the country. Just the opposite, he said. During his five days in New York for the annual high-level meeting of the U.N. General Assembly, Aleinik said he held 40 meetings with countries, many from the global South, who are interested in building economic and trade relations, especially focused on food security. Belarus is among the top five exporters globally of butter, cheese and powdered milk, he said, and it produces 10% of the worlds tractors, 8% of the harvesting equipment and a range of other agricultural machinery. There is growing demand for Belarus products from African countries, a number of Asian countries, the Middle East and Latin America,, Aleinik said, and the country is increasing its production of food and other agricultural products. Belarus is also building a relationship with China, he said. The foreign minister criticized neighboring Lithuania, which landlocked Belarus used to ship potash fertilizer to the Global South, for blocking transit through the country, saying he raised the issue repeatedly this week including with U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Lithuania simply unilaterally imposed a ban for the transit of our fertilizers to the global South, he said. Lithuania, a Baltic nation, declared its independence from the Soviet Union 33 years ago. It is a democracy that belongs to NATO and the European Union. It has been a strong backer of Ukraine and a place of refuge in recent years for many who have fled Lukashenkos authoritarian crackdown in Belarus and increased repression in Russia. Aleinik said Belarus is now shipping fertilizer from Russian ports and sending its products to China by rail, but these shipments are more costly. Western countries imposed sanctions on Belarus after its crackdown on protests against Lukashenkos claim of victory in the 2020 presidential election which opponents claimed he fraudulently won. Additional sanctions were added over the forced diversion of a commercial jetliner traveling between in May 2021 two EU countries to Belarus capital Minsk, where authorities took a prominent opposition leader who was a passenger into custody. BUILDING COOPERATION IN ALMOST ALL AREAS Aleinik said Belarus union with Moscow covering almost all areas and is building technological cooperation with Moscow to counter Western sanctions and make the country self-sufficient in producing products previously imported from Western nations. In his address to the General Assembly on Saturday, Aleinik briefly addressed the war in Ukraine, saying it was very painful to see how Ukrainians who are so close to Belarusians have been suffering for a year and a half. Unfortunately, Ukraine and its people have become a pawn in the great game of the West to preserve its own global hegemony, he said. Its clear that by increasing weapons deliveries to this country, the West is determined to continue the war down to the last Ukrainian. Could he see a situation where Belarus could support the war in Ukraine alongside Russia? My answer is no, he told AP. The foreign minister said he didnt think Ukrainians want or need this war of attrition, stressing that Belarus has always supported peace in its neighboring country and will continue to do everything in our power to achieve it. In the AP interview, Aleinik said he doesnt think anyone at the United Nations for the high-level meeting knows how long the war will last, but we all understand that there is no alternative to the political and diplomatic solution for this conflict. He recalled that last year Belarus hosted three rounds of negotiations between Russian and Ukrainian delegations and they started to draft some elements of a potential peace accord. Aleinik blamed Ukraine and perhaps others indirectly involved in the conflict for the failure of those negotiations. But he said Belarus will keep pursuing peace efforts. Lukashenkos government has come under sharp criticism for its crackdown and jailing of political opponents and human rights activists. The Viasna Human Rights Center recorded 1,496 political prisoners in Belarus at the end of August, including Nobel Peace Prize winner Ales Bialiatski. Asked about the political prisoners, Aleinik said: We dont have political prisoners. All the people who are detained are detained for criminal charges which have been proved in the courts. And so thats it. EDITH M. LEDERER, UNITED NATIONS, MDT/AP The Chinese government yesterday accused Taiwans ruling party of seeking independence, a day after the self-governing islands president lobbied for Australias support in joining a regional trade pact. Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for Chinas Taiwan Affairs Office, also said the recent Chinese military drills around Taiwan were held to combat the arrogance of Taiwan independence separatist forces. China claims Taiwan, an island about 160 kilometers off its east coast, as its territory.\The two split during the civil war that brought the Communists to power in China in 1949, with the losing Nationalists setting up their own government in Taiwan. Taiwan leader Tsai Ing-wen, meeting with six visiting Australian lawmakers on Tuesday, sought their countrys support for Taiwans bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, an 11-nation free trade agreement. The Australian parliamentary delegation discussed strengthening economic cooperation with Taiwan, particularly in clean energy, and expressed an interest in Taiwans semiconductor industry. Zhu said that any participation by Taiwan in a regional economic grouping should be handled in accordance with the one-China principle, which holds that the Communist Party is the government of China and Taiwan is a part of the country. The Democratic Progressive Partys attempt to seek independence in the name of economy and trade will not succeed, she said, referring to Tsais political party. Zhu signaled that China would not ease up on its military activity around Taiwan. As long as Taiwan independences provocations continue, the Peoples Liberation Armys actions to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity will not stop, she said. MDT/AP The Macau Alcohol Control Alliance was launched yesterday with 33 members, to promote awareness of alcohol control in the SAR. Health Bureau (SSM) director Alvis Lo said in his speech at the launch ceremony that the SAR government has always been concerned about the problem of underage drinking. The results of the latest health behavior survey of Macau secondary school students showed that the proportion of minors who have drank alcohol has risen significantly, and long-term alcohol abuse has caused many kinds of harm. Related The joint police operation of Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau Operation Thunder 2023 has busted 122 people suspected of prostitution, as well as 182 cases involving fraud, with 228 people involved, including 53 cases involving money exchange fraud. In a press conference yesterday, authorities announced that 1,140 people suspected of committing criminal offenses were transferred to the judicial authorities, involving 930 criminal cases. Regarding parallel import smuggling activities, 984 people were administratively prosecuted for smuggling parallel imports, of which 365 were foreign employees. A total of 2,014 non-Macau residents were repatriated during an operation that was conducted from Jun. 12 to Sept. 21. Authorities announced that, during the operation, 2,094 related actions were carried out, and 4,916 inspections were concluded. During the entire operation, the Macao Customs, Public Security Police, and Judiciary Police deployed 23,175 police personnel to investigate 86,005 people. 4,815 people had to be brought back to the police station for further investigation, involving 930 cases. Cases uncovered during the entire operation also included 154 cases involving theft, with 172 people involved, as well as 55 cases involving gambling loan sharks, with 76 people arrested; 23 cases involving drug crimes, with 45 people arrested, 18 of which involved trafficking, with 30 people arrested. Staff Reporter Togos foreign minister wasnt having any of it. He talked of an accelerating African awakening, of a resolve to fight our own battles, of a refusal to be banished to the childrens table while the musclebound great powers of the 20th century moved chess pieces around the board. Nobody is at the center of the world, Robert Dussey said in French, his voice emphatic. We dont want to be relegated to the background as the world develops. Africa was Dusseys subject. But he might have been one of any number of leaders speaking at the United Nations this past week the voices of smaller nations that typically command less attention. They come, they air grievances and concerns, and then the oxygen is gobbled up by others often the five permanent members of the U.N. Security Council. This year, though, Volydymyr Zelenskyys high-profile presence notwithstanding, things felt different. Top leaders of four of the five permanent member nations didnt attend. Climate change helped amplify the concerns of smaller nations not coincidentally, those most affected by it. And speech by speech, speaker by speaker, it became clear: On the international stage, other voices are beginning to rise and to be heard. The voice of the Global South is growing louder, said Terrance Michael Drew, prime minister of the Caribbean island nation of Saint Kitts and Nevis. The voices and experiences of the Pacific matter, said Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong. Our appetite for transformative change has never been higher, said Xavier Espot, prime minister of the small European country of Andorra. The General Assembly is always the biggest platform for countries that dont get a spotlight, says Anjali Dayal, an associate professor of international politics at Fordham University and an expert on the United Nations and other international organizations. But I think this year, we saw that more leaders were paying attention to the biggest constituency of U.N. countries countries that are not big powers but that suffer the biggest consequences and very seldom get to cast the decisive vote, she said. Where is the momentum coming from? As with so many matters of import these days, theres no single answer. This year, one development helped clear space for some of the voices: the shallow attendance of major nations leaders. Of the U.N. Security Councils five permanent members, only the United States, in the personage of President Joe Biden, spoke. The others Russia, China, France and Britain chose to send underlings, as did India and Canada. U.N. Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed called that disappointing. But it did mean that smaller nations and coalitions had more oxygen. They used some of it to advocate for a broader-based permanent membership of Security Council, the only U.N. body with the power to take military action and impose sanctions. Only its permanent members can veto resolutions, and frustration about that runs long and deep. The global governance architecture has not delivered the equity and inclusion that is required, said Tandi Dorji, foreign minister of the Asian nation of Bhutan. He insisted representation on the council which lacks a permanent member from Africa or Latin America be broadened. The increasing fragmentation, polarization, and growing inequity we witness in the world today only serve as an urgent cry for strengthening multilateralism. The structure of the United Nations, most countries agree, doesnt fit the current global configuration. An organization built in the postwar mid-20th century to, in essence, prevent the nations who could destroy the world from doing so is not equipped to tackle the fragmentation afoot as the mid-21st century steams toward us with a rapidly evolving global power structure, speaker after speaker said. Other factors, too, are helping softer voices grow louder. Exhibit A: climate change, which has hit the worlds poorest countries hardest in particular, island nations whose very existence is threatened by rising waters. When the president of the island nation of Kirabati, Taneti Maamau, says his country is experiencing intensifying severe drought and coastal inundation, its not a secondhand account and people are starting to listen. Theyre banding together and saying, We are the front line of worlds biggest problems, and the only way we get attention is if we band together. That has been remarkably effective in terms of voice, Dayal said. Theyre saying, Today its us. Tomorrow its going to be you. The pandemic and the gradual recognition finally of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres yearslong insistence that a multilateral planet is the only way forward also are helping matters. Much like climate change, the vaccine inequity that the pandemic produced is a pressing topic; smaller nations, as the most affected constituencies, have natural roles driving that as well. As we rebuild from the pandemic, we must do so with an unwavering commitment to inclusivity, said Seychelles President Wavel Ramkalawan. And coalitions are strengthening beyond usual suspects like the G20 and the European Union. There is the Global South in general, with its malleable membership but its commitment to developing countries with unique common needs. There is SIDS, or small island developing states, which tell firsthand stories about climate change. And Africas voice is stronger than ever as it pushes for equity, buoyed by a new permanent G20 seat for the African Union. Then theres sheer population. Africas alone is expected to double from its current 1.3 billion by 2050 and make up a quarter of the planets people. This year, India surpassed China to become the worlds most populous nation; its leader, Narendra Modi, may have skipped the U.N. meeting, but he hosted the G20 two weeks ago and used it as a forum to trumpet Indias suitability as a leader of the Global South. China, too, used the General Assembly last week to cast itself as a member of the Global South and the community of developing nations. While thats a matter of some debate China also wants to be perceived as a key global power its oomph carries along other less-heard nations priorities in its wake, while bigger nations are distracted with other things. It seems that the Global North, under the U.S leadership, is busy resisting Chinas growing power and weakening Putins Russia, Zhiqun Zhu, a professor of political science and international relations at Bucknell University, said in an email. No wonder China is seeking support in the developing world. Even Biden focused his U.N. speech not on the big powers whose leaders didnt show, but on leaders in the room. The United States is working across the board to make global institutions more effective and more inclusive, he said, adding that in the 21st century, 21st-century results are badly needed. That, like so many other remarks that followed in coming days, was an acknowledgment of something crucial: Both the community of nations and the U.N. itself need to address a world that might not have been recognizable to the architects of the post-World War II order and the global organization that rose from its ashes. Which brings us back to Togo. Dussey surely voiced the concerns of myriad smaller nations when he said, flatly, that it is time to be heard and listened to individually or as a group, but in a way that befits a 21st-century civilization where some of the most difficult circumstances are visited upon those with the least resources to cope. We are wearied by paternalism, Dussey said. We are weary at your condescension. We are weary of your arrogance. We are weary. We are weary. We are weary. TED ANTHONY, UNITED NATIONS, MDT/AP TYPE OF SPEAKERS Presidents: 85 Prime ministers: 41 Kings: 2 Princes: 2 Emirs: 1 Ministers, of some sort: 47 Vice presidents: 6 Transitional or interim leaders: 2 Permanent representatives: 6 Police authorities are expecting the daily average number of inbound and outbound trips will exceed 500,000 during the seven-day National Day Holiday, describing it as more than the May Day holiday. In a press briefing yesterday, the Public Security Police Force said additional police officers would be deployed to maintain order, and additional inspection counters would be opened to divert crowds. Also, the Macao Customs said the public security police have made full preparations and can open all lanes to clear vehicles if necessary. The lanes of the second phase of the Hengqin Port have also been opened. Bookings for budget hotels for the upcoming Golden Week are between 60% and 70%, while the general occupancy rate of five-star hotels on weekdays has reached 90%. The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) has raised its daily visitor arrival forecast for Octobers Golden Week by more than 10%, forecasting that Macau will see an average of over 100,000 visitors daily. In 2022, the city saw some 182,000 visitors during the holiday period. Gaming operator MGM previously told the Times that it expects the Golden Week holidays, which commence Sunday, are set to break post-pandemic records as it is the first holiday of its kind in four years where customers can attend without restrictions. LV A suspended New York City police officer who had been accused then later cleared of spying for China is fighting to be reinstated, but the department wants him fired for refusing to be interrogated by the bureau of internal affairs exploring possible disciplinary action. The fate of the officer, Baimadajie Angwang, now rests with an NYPD disciplinary judge who is considering arguments made before her yesterday (Macau time). The police department argues Angwang should be fired for insubordination, saying he willfully disobeyed orders to submit himself to questioning in June. That came two months after Angwang filed a lawsuit against the city saying he was wrongfully arrested when he was taken into custody in September 2020 by authorities with guns drawn as he prepared to report for duty at his Queens precinct. The U.S. Attorneys Office announced Jan. 19 that it was dropping all spying charges against the officer, saying prosecutors had uncovered new information warranting their dismissal. That ended a two-year ordeal for Angwang, a naturalized U.S. citizen born in Tibet, who had been accused of spying on expatriate Tibetans in New York on behalf of officials at the Chinese consulate in the city. Despite his long legal ordeal, Angwang said on the stand Tuesday that he still wants to rejoin the force. I still want to be a police officer. I still want to serve, he said. Angwang said he refused to appear at the June 5 questioning because he was advised that the order was unlawful because his new attorneys were denied additional time to confer with him and get up to speed with the case. Police also rejected requests for a witness list and other documents ahead of the hearing, which was to focus on any wrongdoing that warranted discipline because of his interaction with Chinese officials in New York. The lawyer representing the police department, Penny Bluford-Garrett, argued that taking orders was part of the job, and that the departments internal affairs bureau can investigate you for anything. The U.S. attorneys office in Brooklyn had initially claimed that Angwang began working as an agent for China in 2018 and was secretly supplying information on Tibetans pushing for their homelands independence from the communist government. It said he had worked to locate potential intelligence sources and identify potential threats to Chinese interests. Tibet has been an especially sensitive issue for communist China. There was no allegation that Angwang compromised national security or New York Police Department operations. Angwang, 37, was assigned to an NYPD precinct in Queens as a community liaison. Does he deserve to lose his job? The answer to both questions is absolutely not, said his lawyer, Michael Bloch. Instead, he said, the department should say, Thank you for your service, sir, and welcome back. Angwangs lawyers, however, contend that the interrogation was a setup to entrap the officer, despite having his federal case dropped by the Justice Department earlier. An internal affairs lieutenant testified that he had prepared a list of 1,700 questions for Angwang. Angwang was first notified on May 17 to appear five days later for questioning. But his attorney got a postponement until June 5, giving Anwang time to find new attorneys. BOBBY CAINA CALVAN Associated Press, NEW YORK, MDT/AP Many Black residents are being priced out of most Madison neighborhoods as house prices have skyrocketed and their incomes fall far short of other residents, according to maps published in a city housing report. The report looked at the median, or typical, household income by race. It then looked at neighborhoods in which at least half of the homes were affordable to the typical renter and homebuyer. To be affordable, residents would spend less than 30% of their income on rent or mortgage payments. For typical white, Asian and Latino households, there were affordable options in most Madison neighborhoods. But renters at the median income or below for Black households could only afford to rent in three neighborhoods in 2021 the North Side and two areas on the Southeast Side. For Black families who want to buy a home, the picture was even bleaker. To be affordable to the median-income Black household, a home would need to sell for $158,860 or less. The only area in the city where at least half the homes were at that price was a swath on the northeast side of the Isthmus. I think what these maps are showing is that, as housing costs go up in the city of Madison, incomes are not going up universally to keep up with that, said Matt Wachter, city of Madison director for the Department of Planning, Community and Economic Development. Certain groups of people who have lower income just have fewer and fewer housing choices. They are being priced out of areas of the city, so they just have less choice compared to higher incomes. Read more: >> Most new apartment buildings unaffordable to renters >> Epics growth means big changes for Verona In 2010, white households had a median household income of $55,390, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus five-year American Community Survey. For Black residents, it was $32,132; Asian residents, $38,094; and Latino households, $48,488. By 2021, the median income rose for white households ($74,585), Latino households ($59,188) and Asian households ($66,657). But the median income for Black households significantly less, to $37,587. That means that while the typical white household could afford a rent of $1,873 a month in 2021, and Asian households could afford $1,666, the typical Black household could only afford a rent of $940. Because housing opportunities are not equally distributed across the city by price point, disparate home prices from neighborhood to neighborhood can also serve as indirect barriers to where people can live in the city, the report stated. Several factors Some housing advocates say that while income is a main factor, discriminatory factors such as redlining still have an effect on where Black residents can live. Redlining started in the 1930s and persisted for decades in government homeownership programs that identified areas deemed poor financial risks largely Black neighborhoods and denied loans to people in those areas. Thats one of several systematic barriers that have kept Black residents from owning homes and growing wealth, said Tiffany Malone, a real estate consultant for the Alvarado Real Estate Group and co-creator of Own It: Building Black Wealth. Own It helps families and staff at Madisons One City Schools, primarily people of color, own homes by providing down payments and education about owning a house. Malone called the housing report disheartening. The numbers support that what we are doing isnt working, she said. The numbers support that this is not a place for people who are Black or brown, and this is not a message we want to send. Wachter said the city is working with nonprofits and others on job training and, through economic development programs, works with companies to encourage creation of good-paying jobs. All levels of government have a role to play here, Wachter said. Limited tools The city also targets housing funds toward neighborhoods where there is a lack of housing for low-income renters, Wachter said. The city budgeted $10 million for the affordable housing fund in 2023, and Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway has proposed doubling that in her capital budget for 2024. Madison also works with partners to help with down payment assistance and homebuyer education, Wachter said. Providing enough housing to keep up with demand to keep rent and mortgages affordable is key to solving the problem, but advocates say the immediate problem is a housing shortage. The city can also provide educational opportunities in homebuying and help people with down payments, among other things, Wachter said. But city officials largely cant control what private companies or people charge for rent or list as a home price. The tools available to the city are limited, he said. The vast majority of housing thats created is done so in the private market. The city is using the tools it as has it its disposal, which include federal, state and local dollars to address these challenges. UW-Madison urban planning professor Kurt Paulsen said more needs to be done to address both the vast median income disparity and the de facto segregation caused by high housing costs. That includes helping Black households acquire the means and opportunities for homeownership and renting, he said, as well as enforcing fair housing and antidiscrimination ordinances and investments in education, employment and job training to increase Black household incomes. Those are the standard tools in the toolbox, and I think we are doing all of those things, but obviously its nowhere near enough, Paulsen said. If nothing is done? Paulsen almost couldnt answer that question, calling it depressing. If homeownership is the American Dream, what does that say about Madison when you look at this map? Paulsen said. We have a big problem. The owners of a Cambria corn mill that exploded in 2017, killing five workers, have agreed to plead guilty to two federal criminal charges and pay a $1 million fine and $10.25 million in restitution to the estates of the deceased workers, according to a plea agreement filed late Wednesday in federal court in Madison. Didion Milling Inc., along with six of its managers and superintendents, was charged in May 2022 in a nine-count criminal indictment for its alleged role in failing to ensure that work was done to safely handle highly combustible corn dust and in keeping deliberately false records before the May 31, 2017, explosion at the companys Cambria corn mill. According to the agreement for Sun Prairie-based Didion, signed by company CEO Riley Didion, the company agreed with prosecutors to plead guilty to two counts of making false entries in logbooks that were required by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The records are key to maintaining safe dust levels in the plant, which were provided to investigators after the explosion. In addition to the $1 million fine and $10.25 million in restitution, the company agreed to serve five years of organizational probation. The agreement states that while on probation it will allow OSHA to inspect the Cambria mill without a warrant or advance notice and without undue delay or any specified reason. The inspections, however, would occur no more than twice a year. The indictment alleged that the company falsified logbooks used by inspectors to determine whether the plant was handling dust from corn milling in a safe manner and whether the company was complying with rules about cleaning dust, and that there was a conspiracy to falsify the logs. At the Cambria plant, Didion mills corn into flour and similar products that other customers buy for use in their products. Duelle Block, Robert Goodenow, Charly Nunez, Angel Reyes-Sanchez and Pawel Tordoff were killed in the blast or died soon after. The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board is expected to release its final report on the Cambria explosion sometime in the second half of this year. In general, grain dust, when concentrated in the air, can be ignited by a spark. The indictment states the explosion originated in milling equipment in one of the plants mills and spread quickly because of combustible dust accumulations. Trial ahead A trial is scheduled to begin Monday before U.S. District Judge James Peterson for the remaining co-defendants, which include Derrick Clark, who was vice president for operations at Didion; Shawn Mesner, who was food safety superintendent; and James Lenz, who was environmental manager. According to court records, guilty pleas to some of the charges have already been entered for Anthony Hess, who was a day shift superintendent at Didion; Joseph Winch, who was environmental coordinator at Didion; and Joel Niemeyer, who was also a day shift superintendent at Didion. Niemeyer pleaded guilty on Tuesday to conspiracy to conceal environmental and safety violations from auditors and government agencies, and Winch pleaded guilty to the same charge on June 15. Hess pleaded guilty on Sept. 19 to obstruction. All of those charges carry up to five years in prison. Sentencing dates for the three have not been set, and no date has been set for Didion to formally enter its guilty pleas as stated in the agreement. In a statement Thursday, Riley Didion said the company was thankful to have reached the plea deal and was pleased most of the financial settlement will go to the workers estates, calling the explosion heartbreaking. What happened in Cambria in May of 2017 was tragic, and we continue to offer prayers for those who were affected, he said. With this agreement in place, we can devote our full attention to serving our team, community, farmers, and customers with the highest standards of safety and quality. The case is being prosecuted in Madison by the U.S. Department of Justices Environment and Natural Resources Division. False entries According to a statement of facts to which Didion agreed, filed with the plea agreement, dust from corn milling is regulated under the federal Clean Air Act, under permits issued by the state Department of Natural Resources. Those permits require Didion to operate filters, called baghouses, where dusty air is cleaned by filters and released into the environment. They are monitored by pressure drops, which can indicate whether there are malfunctions in baghouses. A high pressure reading, for example, can indicate that the system is clogged. Didions permit required it to monitor and record pressure drops at each of about 14 baghouses every eight hours and enter those readings on an electronic spreadsheet. That log is used by inspectors to determine whether Didion is in compliance with its air quality permits. Monitoring reports also have to be submitted to DNR every six months. From 2015 to May 2017, according to the statement of facts, Didion shift workers and superintendents made false entries on baghouse logs, including filling in pressure drops that appeared to comply with rules when the actual numbers were outside the allowed range. Emails also showed Didion employees discussed backfilling entries for pressure drop readings in baghouse logs. On May 17, 2017, during a DNR inspection, Didions environmental manager showed logs to inspectors knowing they contained false entries. Logs containing false entries for 2015, 2016 and 2017 were also knowingly sent to DNR in August 2017, according to the statement of facts. Combustible dust also must be cleaned up to reduce the possibility of an explosion. Didion set a master sanitation schedule for cleanings, and shift superintendents were to make sure the cleanings were done and then enter the work in a logbook. On May 19, 2017, the statement says, Didion employees falsely indicated in the logbook that required dust cleanings had been performed during the week of May 1-7, 2017, when they had not. The 2017 logbook was given to OSHA in August 2017 during its investigation of the Cambria mill explosion. The Associated Press contributed to this report. The Wisconsin Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected a lawsuit liberals filed earlier this month seeking to prohibit the Legislature from impeaching liberal Justice Janet Protasiewicz. The high courts decision not to hear the case follows Republican legislators threats to impeach Protasiewicz if she presides over two redistricting lawsuits after calling the current legislative maps rigged during her election campaign. The Supreme Court hasnt accepted the two redistricting cases yet, nor has Protasiewicz said whether shell recuse herself from those cases. In a brief order Tuesday, justices rejected a petition by two Protasiewicz voters, Elaine Hanson-Hysell and Deborah Anderson, for the high court to take the case even before its been heard in circuit court. The plaintiffs argued that impeaching Protasiewicz would violate the constitutional rights of the Wisconsinites who voted for her. The justices gave no explanation for rejecting the lawsuit, from which Protasiewicz recused herself soon after the case was filed. Republicans say Protasiewicz must recuse herself from the redistricting cases challenging the current maps because she prejudged them. Democrats say her comments werent illegal and that impeaching her would nullify an election. Republicans havent formally started impeachment proceedings against Protasiewicz. But Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, has convened a secret panel of past Wisconsin Supreme Court justices to advise him on whether the newly minted liberal justices past actions are impeachable. The lawsuit sought an emergency order to prevent any impeachment proceedings against Protasiewicz. It argues the public will be irreparably harmed unless the court acted. The Assembly can impeach an official with a majority vote based on specific reasons: corrupt conduct in office or for the commission of a crime or misdemeanor, according to a Wisconsin Legislative Council memo. But Protasiewiczs statements dont fall into those categories, the lawsuit stated. The conduct of Justice Protasiewicz cannot be in any sense historically deemed as corrupt, the lawsuit states. Justices routinely do not recuse themselves from issues upon which they have expressed clear points of view or in the context of previous donors to their campaigns appearing before them as litigants. Separately, former Wisconsin Supreme Court justices Janine Geske and Louis Butler penned a column last week arguing that Protasiewiczs opinions arent impeachable. UW-Madison law professor Rob Yablon and Derek Clinger, an attorney at UW-Madisons State Democracy Research Initiative, have also said Protasiewicz doesnt have to recuse herself and that impeaching her would be a blow to the principle of judicial independence. Gender-affirming care for youth younger than 18 would be banned in Wisconsin under a Republican bill that is part of a nationwide wave of GOP legislation seeking to reduce access to gender transition services. The bill, which Democratic Gov. Tony Evers would almost certainly veto, comes as similar laws face court challenges across the country, with opponents alleging the bans violate doctors First Amendment rights and patients rights to equal protection under the law. This bill protects children by ensuring that life-altering procedures that could cause permanent damage or sterilization are not performed on anyone under the age of 18, bill authors Rep. Scott Allen, R-Waukesha; Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester; and Sen. Duey Stroebel, R-Saukville, wrote Wednesday in a sponsorship memo to legislators. The Wisconsin bill would ban medical procedures for youth younger than 18 if done for the purpose of changing the minors body to correspond to a sex that is discordant with the minors biological sex, according to a Legislative Reference Bureau analysis. Similar legislation in other states prohibits doctors from performing gender-affirming surgery, providing puberty blockers or giving out gender-affirming hormone treatment for minors. The bill would lay out exceptions for when doctors provide care in accordance with a good faith medical decision of a parent or guardian of a minor born with a medically verifiable genetic disorder of sex development. The proposal prompted immediate backlash from Democrats and LGBTQ+ advocates. Once again, Republicans are interfering with private medical decisions that belong in the hands of patients and their doctors not politicians, stated Wisconsins legislative LGBTQ+ caucus, which includes Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer, D-Racine; Rep. Lee Snodgrass, D-Appleton; Sen. Mark Spreitzer, D-Beloit; and Sen. Tim Carpenter, D-Madison. Gender-affirming care reduces gender dysphoria and helps people live healthy and authentic lives. We must stand up for the privacy, freedom, and bodily autonomy of LGBTQ+ Wisconsinites and keep politicians OUT of our healthcare, the LGBTQ+ advocacy organization Fair Wisconsin posted on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. BREAKING: Republicans in the State Legislature just introduced a statewide ban on trans medical care. We knew this was coming, and now is the time to fight back. #ProtectTransKids pic.twitter.com/MEAt8RzwOl Fair Wisconsin (@Fair_Wisconsin) September 27, 2023 Wisconsin Republicans introduced a similar bill in early 2022, but it never reached a public hearing or vote. The Human Rights Campaign states gender-affirming care is medically necessary for the wellbeing of many transgender and non-binary people who experience symptoms of gender dysphoria, or distress that results from having ones gender identity not match their sex assigned at birth. Groups that opposed last years effort include the Wisconsin Public Health Association, League of Women Voters of Wisconsin, the ACLU of Wisconsin and Fair Wisconsin. Focus on doctors The bill would require state medical boards to investigate any allegations of doctors providing gender-affirming care to youth and remove licenses and certificates from those who violated the ban. About 35% of transgender youth live in states that have passed bans on gender-affirming care, according to the Human Rights Campaign. Medical groups, including the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics, endorse gender treatments for adolescents. But some worry clinics are too hasty to give sometimes-irreversible treatments to children who might later regret them. Psychologist Erica Anderson, a transgender female, resigned from the board of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health last year after voicing concerns about sloppy care given without proper counseling. Court challenges Lawsuits seeking to block laws banning gender-affirming care for youth are playing out in federal courts across the country. In June, federal judges blocked laws banning gender-affirming care for youth in Arkansas and Florida. A federal appeals court in Alabama allowed a similar ban to remain in effect in August after a judge blocked the law in May 2022. On Wednesday, a judge blocked Montana from enforcing a ban on such care. Similar court battles are playing out in Tennessee, Indiana, Kentucky and other states. Growing trans population sparks need for senior housing geared to LGBTQ+ community NORTH KOREA WASHINGTON The U.S. secured the release of a U.S. soldier who sprinted across a heavily fortified border into North Korea more than two months ago, and he is on his way back to America, officials said Wednesday. U.S. ally Sweden and rival China helped with the transfer. Left unanswered were questions of why Pyongyang which has tense relations with Washington over the North's nuclear program, support for Russia's war in Ukraine and other issues agreed to turn him over and why the soldier fled in the first place. North Korea abruptly announced earlier Wednesday that it would expel Pvt. Travis King though some had expected the North to drag out his detention in hopes of squeezing concessions from Washington at a time of high tensions between the two countries. "U.S. officials have secured the return of Private Travis King from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea," White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said in a statement. "We appreciate the dedication of the interagency team that has worked tirelessly out of concern for Private King's well-being." Officials said they did not know why North Korea decided to expel King, but suspected Pyongyang determined that as a low-ranking serviceman he had no real value in terms of either leverage or information. One official, who requested anonymity, said the North Koreans may have decided that King, 23, was more trouble to keep than to simply release him. Swedish officials took King to the Chinese border, where he was met by the U.S. Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns, the Swedish ambassador to China, and at least one U.S. Defense Department official. Biden administration officials insisted they provided no concessions to North Korea to secure the soldier's release. King was flown to a U.S. military base in South Korea before being returned to the U.S. Return to US His expulsion almost certainly does not end his troubles or ensure the sort of celebratory homecoming that has accompanied the releases of other detained Americans. He was declared AWOL from the Army, which can mean military jail, forfeiture of pay or a dishonorable discharge. In the near term, officials said their focus would be on helping King reintegrate into U.S. society, including helping him address mental and emotional concerns, a senior Biden administration official said. The soldier was in "good spirits and good health" upon his release, according to one senior administration official. He was to be taken to Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston in Texas, and was expected to arrive overnight, officials said. King, who served in South Korea, ran into North Korea while on a civilian tour of a border village on July 18, becoming the first American confirmed to be detained in the North in almost five years. At the time he crossed the border, King was supposed to be heading to Fort Bliss, Texas, after his release from prison in South Korea on an assault conviction. After arriving on the Texas military installation, King is expected to undergo psychological assessments and debriefings. He will also get a chance to meet with family. International assistance Sweden was the chief interlocutor with North Korea on the transfer, while China helped facilitate his transfer, administration officials said. Biden administration officials expressed gratitude for China's assistance with the transfer but underscored that Beijing did not play a mediating role in securing King's release. The U.S. first learned through Swedish officials this month that North Korea wanted to expel King. That information accelerated the effort to release King with Sweden acting on the United States' behalf in its talks with the North, an official said. On Wednesday, the North's official Korean Central News Agency reported that authorities finished their questioning of King. It said he confessed to illegally entering the North because he harbored "ill feeling against inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination" within the U.S. Army and was "disillusioned about the unequal U.S. society." It attributed similar comments to King before, and verifying their authenticity is impossible. Some previous foreign detainees have said after their releases that declarations of guilt while in North Korean custody were made under coercion. The White House did not address the North Korean state media reports that King fled because of his dismay about racial discrimination and inequality in the military and U.S. society. Both Koreas ban anyone from crossing their heavily fortified shared border without special permissions. The Americans who crossed into North Korea in the past include soldiers, missionaries, human rights advocates or those simply curious about one of the world's most cloistered societies. During my first year with the City of Jerome, while going though responses to a survey, a comment really stuck out to me. A new resident had expressed that while they enjoyed living in Jerome, they were disappointed the town really didnt celebrate holidays or special occasions like they had been accustomed to in the small town they grew up in. My first reaction was a bit dismissive because, of course, we celebrate in Jerome, right? The more I thought about it, however, I agreed we were quite underwhelming as a community when it came to celebrating special occasions TWIN FALLS CITY: How good are we doing? To be a responsible and innovative government, we survey and ask our residents how we are doing, writes Twin Falls City Manager Travis Rothweiler. That simple comment from a citizen resulted in a great deal of self-reflection in the organization when it came to the importance of providing spaces and opportunities to gather, and also building community and place-making. Those conversations led to the formation of the Jerome Community Spirit Committee, whose mission is to foster community pride. Events such as the Freedom Fest, Main Street Trunk-or-Treat, and multiple service days were born out of this effort and are now dates the community cherishes and looks forward to. Quote We live in communities where public officials and staff are very accessible. Something on your mind? Stop in and see them. Why do I bring this up? Because public involvement in any form is important and good communities rely on it in order to provide the best services and most livable communities possible. As one who has attended hundreds of public meetings, I get it, they are more times than not boring. However, meeting attendance isnt the only way to get involved. Most government agencies have a social media presence which is a great way to get in touch. When opportunities to respond to surveys are offered, take the time to express your opinion. We live in communities where public officials and staff are very accessible. Something on your mind? Stop in and see them. One of the most successful and impactful projects in recent Jerome history were the improvements to the now Idaho Central Credit Union Park. The parks vision originated 100% from a group of citizens who simply asked if they could present an idea. Without that vision and input from the citizens group, improvements and amenities to the park wouldnt exist. Public involvement leads to better decisions, and can be transformative. We look forward to hearing from you. Socialism and socialist are words thrown around the political schoolyard like other imprecise words such as ignorant, power-hungry, lazy, and radical. These can be called shut-down words. They indicate that someone is unworthy of consideration. Robert Owen is not mentioned in most K-12 or even undergraduate history classes. However, he was a Welsh industrialist who founded utopian socialism and the cooperative movement. He and Henri de Saint-Simon, from France, are often credited with the first use of the term socialism. In 1848, the Christian Socialist movement began in England, and its adherents continue to this day. The United States was founded by educated Christian men with traditional beliefs and enlightenment philosophy. They were radicals because they changed government at its roots. Their opposition was other immigrants who hoped to establish at least a landed gentry class who governed the people under them. Some supported the King, but others only supported separation from Great Britain. Few of them envisioned anything like a government for the people. Everyone narrowly defined the people who could vote as male property holders initially. Even the most influential leader of the Jesus movement, the Apostle Paul, concentrates his messages on how we should treat each other because that was Jesus radical message for the Jews. The institution of the Christian church and secular governance have been wrestling with how to govern within the precepts of Jesus teaching for centuries. Quote The institution of the Christian church and secular governance have been wrestling with how to govern within the precepts of Jesus' teaching for centuries. In the U.S. after World War II, many people became obsessed with Communism, especially the USSRs aim to take over the world and its elimination of religious worship. Groups like the John Birch Society formed to counter the influence of a radical movement forcing society to accept government ownership and political control. Communism as a philosophy of government is hypocritical. With its roots in the thinking of Christian Socialists and even earlier by philosophers of the Enlightenment, a hasty examination of its ideology suggests a natural progression. What could be fairer than sharing everything and benefiting everyone? No one is left out. The problem is in the twin Cs of ineffective governance corruption and coercion. The USSR did not do away with a privileged ruling class. They mostly succeeded in providing the basic survival needs of the citizens: food, shelter, and security. However, the ruling class skimmed wealth and status while severely punishing political dissent no one who has something wants to lose it. People in democracies who had already done away with the idea of inherited political power saw no advantage in the system. Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping, and all authoritarian leaders use the same corruption of socialist thought to gain their leadership positions. They always talk about the collective good but reserve the best for themselves and their allies. When the people who are ruled accept a ruler without examining their actions, they might as well reasonably believe in the divine right of kings. I allege that the fundamental truth is a stable government must be for the people and, in practical terms, a majority of the people must decide what that means. The other applicable mandate is that the majority cannot override the human or civil rights of the minority. Two problems interfere with how the promise of our enlightened form of government, intending to be perfected into a closer union, was designed. The first problem concerns our freedom of speech and religious belief. These are essentially freedom of mind. We are given freedom with only practical restrictions to think and say what we want. Only the individual can change moral and intellectual beliefs. The government can curtail the effect but not coerce belief. The second comes from our biological nature to survive, which means I must gain all the resources and social advantage I can. Most of the traditional seven deadly sins derive from that interpretation. I argue that those who see socialism as the ultimate evil fear losing what they have or plan to gain during their lives. They do not focus on the blessings of today or the promise of our system of governance to protect them. After all, we, the people, must govern ourselves into abundance. No one person or group of people will do it for us. Global professional services group Deloitte acquired Philippines-based financial advisory firm Primeiro Partners (Primeiro) to establish and stamp its leadership in the end-to-end mergers and acquisitions (M&A), restructuring and financing space, both in the country and in the wider Southeast Asian region. Deloitte Southeast Asia chief executive Eugene Ho said Primeiro and Stephen Sieh, the man behind the growth and ascent of Primeiro into a leading independent investment bank, would enable Deloitte to have an advantageous position in the aggressively growing Philippine market. The Philippines is a very important market in our plans to scale up our practice across Southeast Asia. I believe that Stephens and his teams expertise in advising clients in their most critical decisions, and their keen understanding of industry dynamics and the macroeconomic environment will enhance our already strong capability and give us an innovative edge to the way we go to market, said Ho. Primeiro founder and managing partner Stephen Sieh, who now heads Deloitte Philippines financial advisory practice, expressed excitement over the partnership. It is clear that Primeiros strengths and expertise complement Deloittes broad range of services, thought leadership, and global presence and network. I look forward to working together to shape a comprehensive and unparalleled approach to the marketplace, anchored by our people focused on providing our clients with the highest levels of execution, ensuring successful outcomes, enhanced reputations and longstanding business relationships, Sieh said. Sieh, who completed his MBA in Columbia University, has spent 25 years in investment banking. The first half of his IB career was in New York working for Lazard and Evercore. Twelve years ago he moved to Asia to launch Primeiro Partners as he saw the potential in the growing Philippine market. Primeiro succeeded in fulfilling his vision to be the leading independent investment bank in the country. Deloitte is optimistic about what their new Philippine partner can bring to the table. Jiak See Ng, Deloitte Asia Pacific financial advisory leader said Primeiros exceptional reputation as an independent advisor will complement and extend our existing practice locally and regionally. There is strong respect in the market for Stephen and the Primeiro team, which has had an impressive record over the years. This high regard will continue with Deloitte and will underpin the next phase of the teams growth, while retaining the agility, vibrancy and esprit de corps for which they are known, Ng said. Speaking on the two business groups mutually benefitting from the prospects facing both the Philippines and the Southeast Asian region, Sieh said: This is the worlds fastest growing economic region and there is an immense amount of opportunity for corporations and investors to create value. With increased demand for expansion and innovation, clients need for a trusted, end-to-end advisor to help explore and execute critical strategic, financial, and operational imperatives are rapidly increasing. This move is hugely driven by our united commitment to help bring transformative advancement and growth to the Philippines and Southeast Asia, Sieh said. Since 2012, Primeiro has a track record of originating and advising on over 40 transactions. Meanwhile, Deloittes Southeast Asia Financial Advisory practice is powered by more than 600 partners and more than 13,000 professionals whose technical expertise and deep industry knowledge deliver consistently high quality services to companies in the region. Founded in 1845, Deloitte is a British multinational professional services network which is considered one of the Big 4 accounting firms in the world. It provides audit, consulting, financial advisory, risk advisory, tax and legal services. In South East Asia, Deloittes regional arm comprises of its practices operating in Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Primeiro Partners is a financial advisory firm founded to provide world-class independent strategic advisory services to leading companies, financial institutions and professional investors in the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific Region. After twelve years of continued operations, it leapt to being a leading independent regional investment bank that advises clients on decisions that impact value creation. The government is on track to achieving its development goals following the speedy approval of the 2024 General Appropriations Bill by the House of Representatives, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said Thursday. The bill received the majority vote, with 296 lawmakers voting in the third and final reading. The House also agreed to delegate a small committee to evaluate the proposed amendments before transmitting it to the Senate. The approval of the bill is a solid indication that we are on track for the timely enactment of the 2024 national budget we are on track to achieving our Agenda for Prosperity para sa Bagong Pilipinas, Pangandaman said in a statement. The proposed P5.768-trillion national budget for 2024 is 9.5 percent higher than this years P5.267 trillion. It represents about 21.7 percent of the Philippines gross domestic product. Once the House and the Senate approved their versions of the 2024 GAB, both houses will form the bicameral conference committee. The harmonized or bicam version of the budget bill will be given to both houses to vote for its ratification. The ratified 2024 GAB will be sent to the President who can veto or place conditions on certain items in the General Appropriations Act (GAA). The budget legislation concludes when the President signs the GAA into law. Before the approval of the 2024 GAB, the legislators duly deliberated and endorsed the budget provision for the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the lump sum funds for the subsequent year. The Department of Energy (DOE) wants to fully develop 145 geothermal areas to unlock their generation capacity and help secure the countrys energy requirements, an official said. According to the recent geothermal inventory efforts of the Department, there are 145 geothermal areas in the country, while only 7 fields are in operation. We want these potential capacities to be developed, DOE Undersecretary Rowena Guevara said. Guevara urged the members of the National Geothermal Association of the Philippines (NGAP) to further explore the potential of geothermal energy during the 4th Philippine International Geothermal Conference this week. She said the Philippines has been developing geothermal power since 1970s and was the second largest producer of geothermal energy in the world until Indonesia outrank the country in 2018. The Philippines now ranks as the third largest producer next to Indonesia and United States of America. Guevara said geothermal development and utilization slowed down since 2007 and only 86 MW was added in the total installed despite the enactment of the Republic Act No. 9513 or Renewable Energy Act of 2008. This year, three geothermal energy projects are under construction and expected to be online by December 2023. These are the 17-megawatt [MW] Tiwi Binary Geothermal Power Plant, 29-MW Palayan Binary Power Plant and 2-MW Biliran geothermal power plant, she said. Guevara said the 5.6-MW Bago Binary geothermal power plant and the 20-MW Tanawon geothermal power Plant would be online by 2024. There is also a total of 381 MW additional capacity from projects that are undergoing pre-feasibility studies, she said. Guevara said geothermal and hydro renewable energy sources continued to dominate the countrys RE mix in 2022 with 9.3 percent and 9 percent share in the total gross power generation, respectively. Despite of the slowdown in the development of geothermal energy based on the Philippine trend, its contribution to the countrys power requirement remains strong as it provides 10,000 gigawatt-hours, she said. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed security issues in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) in a phone call, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said Thursday. During the call, Marcos told Macron that the Philippines is exerting all efforts to maintain the peace, to maintain the stability, [and] keep the shipping lanes and airways open in the WPS, said PCO Secretary Cheloy Garafil. The President also thanked France for its support in terms of upholding the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), for its messages of support, and for even sending ships to patrol the vital waterway. The phone call comes at a time of heightened tension between the Philippines and China because of Chinese ships in Philippine waters. In a forum in Makati City on Wednesday, Western Mindanao Command chief Vice Adm. Alberto Carlos said the military is looking at three lines of efforts to further enhance the Philippines presence in the WPS. Carlos said the initiatives include effective occupation of all islands now occupied by the country in the WPS, establishment of a stronger naval presence and enhancement of maritime domain awareness. Garafil said Marcos invited the French leader to visit the Philippines whenever he heads to Asia. French Ambassador to the Philippines Marie Fontanel on Sept. 20 relayed Macrons invitation for Marcos to embark on a state visit to France. Macron told Marcos that a group of French ministers would visit Manila before the end of the year, as part of the efforts to strengthen the two nations ties and forge more cooperation. Marcos said the visit of the French ministers could pave the way for discussions on the outcome of the 10th Philippine-France Joint Economic Commission (JEC) meeting last June. During the 10th JEC meeting, the Philippines and France committed to boosting bilateral cooperation in areas of infrastructure and transportation, aeronautics, energy, agriculture, electronics, maritime industry and shipbuilding. Meanwhile, lawmakers in the United States will conduct an inquiry early Friday into Chinas aggressive activities in the South China Sea, following various incidents of harassment against Philippine personnel in the disputed waters. The US Embassy in Manila disclosed that the US House of Representatives will hold a hearing on Beijings actions in the South China Sea waters to be titled: Lasers and Water Cannons: Exposing the Chinese Communist Partys Harassment in the South China Sea. The resource persons invited to the hearing include US State Departments Assistant Secretary for Multilateral Affairs Jung Pak; Defense Department Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Southeast Asia Lindsey Ford; and US Coast Guard Pacific Area Commander Vice Admiral Andrew Tiongson. The US has been supporting the Philippines fight for sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea, which is connected to the bigger South China Sea where Chinese aggressions against Filipino personnel and fishermen regularly occur. US President Joe Biden and his officials, including Vice President Kamala Harris, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and State Secretary Antony Blinken, have expressed Washingtons commitment to invoke its Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the Philippine in case of an armed attack against the latters public assets in the waters. The hearing will come several months after Chinese personnel pointed a military-grade laser at the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel in February and conducted a water cannon attack against PCG vessels in August. Both incidents happened in the waters off Ayungin Shoal, which is within the Philippines exclusive economic zone. China defended both its actions, saying its personnel did so because the Philippine side entered into the waters it claimed to be its own. It said the moves were professional and restrained. In other developments: * A bill seeking to revive the countrys Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) program was brought to the Senate plenary on Wednesday night. Senator Jinggoy Estrada, sponsor of the bill, said the measure seeks to ensure adequate defense assets and hardware for the country through domestic production and manufacturing, development of a national defense industry and reducing dependence on foreign and overseas suppliers. Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, who co-sponsored the measure, said while it is vital that the Department of National Defense is given the proper budget for procurement, a self-reliant defense posture must also be built. We do not lack heart and courage. We just need to have the right equipment, Zubiri said in Filipino during his co-sponsorship speech. * Delegates from the Philippines and the European Union have formed the first subcommittee on maritime cooperation that was convened as both expressed concern over Chinas aggressiveness in the South China Sea. Department of Foreign Affairs Maritime and Oceans Affairs Office Assistant Secretary Maria Angela Ponce led the Philippine side, while Paola Pampaloni, acting Managing Director for Asia and the Pacific at the European External Action Service (EEAS) headed the EU delegates. The subcommittee was organized after the Philippines and the 27-member regional bloc agreed in July this year to establish a subcommittee on maritime cooperation as they were concerned about unilateral actions endangering peace in the Indo-Pacific. The next subcommittee meeting will take place in Manila in 2024. Yerevan, Armenia More than 65,000 Armenians have fled Nagorno-Karabakh for Armenia, Yerevan said Thursday, as the exodus continued from the breakaway enclave which Azerbaijan recaptured last week in a lighting offensive. By Thursday morning, 65,036 forcefully displaced persons crossed into Armenia from Nagorno-Karabakh, Armenian government spokeswoman, Nazeli Baghdasaryan, said in a statement. Some 120,000 ethnic Armenians were estimated to be living in the territory before Bakus offensive. The state is providing suitable housing to all those who do not have a predetermined place of residence, she added. On Sunday, Azerbaijan reopened the sole road linking Nagorno-Karabakh with Armenia, the Lachin corridor policed by Russian peacekeepers four days after Armenian separatist forces agreed to lay down arms and disband their army. The return of the Armenian-populated separatist enclave under the control of the central government in Baku has led to a mass exodus of ethnic Armenians. Internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan, Nagorno-Karabakh, which broke away from Baku three decades, was at the centre of two wars between mostly Christian Armenia and predominantly Muslim Azerbaijan. Yerevans attempts to absorb the sea of homeless and hungry ethnic Armenians come with officials still trying to identify the whereabouts of more than 100 people reported missing in a fuel depot blast Monday that claimed 68 lives. AFP Seoul North Korea has enshrined its status as a nuclear power in its Constitution, with leader Kim Jong Un calling for bigger, more modern atomic weapons. The move follows Kims declaration last year that North Korea is an irreversible nuclear power. Here is a look at North Koreas arsenal: Cruise missiles tend to be jet-propelled and fly at a lower altitude than more sophisticated ballistic missiles, making them harder to detect and intercept. North Korea has an array of short, medium and long-range cruise missiles. Unlike their ballistic counterparts, cruise missiles are not banned from testing under current UN sanctions against Pyongyang. In March, two cruise missiles launched from a submarine flew 1,500 kilometers, Pyongyang said, putting South Korea and much of Japan within range. Intermediate-range ballistic missiles (IRBMs), which are rocket-propelled in the first stage of flight, have a range of about 3,000-5,500 km. North Koreas main IRBM, the Hwasong-12, is capable of hitting the US territory of Guam. Pyongyang first successfully tested the Hwasong-12 in May 2017 and has since fired three variants of the missile over Japan and into the Pacific Ocean. North Korea is banned from testing all ballistic missiles under current UN Security Council sanctions. Intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) have a minimum range of 5,500 kilometers and are primarily designed to deliver nuclear warheads. North Korea first claimed to have successfully tested the Hwasong-15 a missile capable of reaching Alaska on July 4, 2017 as a gift for the American bastards on US Independence Day. Three years later, an even bigger and more powerful Hwasong-17 was showcased at a massive military parade. North Korea fired this monster missile in November 2022. Analysts believe that is the first successful full flight test of the Hwasong-17. This year, Kim oversaw the successful test of North Koreas newest ICBM, the solid-fuel Hwasong-18. But all of North Koreas ICBMs have been test-fired on a lofted trajectory up not out, to avoid flying over Japan raising questions about their performance, including surviving reentry into the atmosphere and accuracy over greater ranges. A submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) can be launched from under the ocean making them extremely mobile and harder to detect. Proven SLBM capability would take North Koreas arsenal to a new level, allowing deployment far beyond the Korean peninsula and a second-strike capability in the event of an attack. North Koreas operational SLBM is called the Pukguksong-3, with an estimated range of 1,900 km. In October 2021, it announced a successful test of a new version of the missile. Pyongyangs exact sea-based launch capabilities remain unclear. Previous tests were carried out from older vessels, including from a submerged platform, rather than an actual submarine. North Korea said it fired two strategic cruise missiles from a submarine in March 2023, but analysts said it appeared they had been launched from above water level, thereby removing the stealth benefit of the weapon. North Korea has also conducted what it called simulations with its first tactical nuclear attack submarine. Hypersonic missiles travel at speeds of at least Mach 5 five times the speed of sound and can manoeuvre mid-flight, making them harder to track and intercept. Depending on their design, analysts say these missiles can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads. After three tests one in September 2021, and two in 2022 North Korea said it had completed the final verification of its first hypersonic missile. North Korea conducted its first nuclear test in 2006, and carried out its sixth and most powerful one in September 2017. Estimates of that devices explosive power, or yield, ranged from 100 to 370 kilotons, far exceeding the 15 kilotons of the US bomb that devastated Hiroshima in 1945. A report published this year by the US Congressional Research Service cited external estimates of North Korea possessing enough material for 20 to 60 warheads. North Korea is also pursuing the development of smaller warheads to fit a variety of delivery systems, it said. In March this year, Kim called for expanded production of weapon-grade nuclear materials as North Korea unveiled what appeared to be a new, smaller tactical nuclear warhead. AFP Indoor Venue at the World Trade Center: The shift to an indoor setting enhances the overall ambiance, offering attendees a comfortable and climate-controlled environment to discuss, network, and explore opportunities. Post-Pandemic Reunion: The Mabuhay Germany 2023 is the first run of GPCCIs annual event after the pandemic, aimed at rekindling connections and demonstrating resilience to focus on the way forward in the business world. Business and Trade Focus: This years event emphasizes facilitating business and trade exchanges between the Philippines and Germany. Its an opportunity for attendees to delve into the practical aspects of strengthening ties and doing more business between the two nations. Professional Approach: Attendees can expect thought leadership sessions and forums to stimulate growth, drive innovation, and elevate their industry insights. B2B Connections: A core objective of the event is enhancing the brands and offerings of GPCCI members through meaningful business-to-business connections. Aligned with the theme Unleashing the Potential of Tomorrow, Mabuhay Germany 2023 gives attendees tangible benefits and new, actionable opportunities. GPCCIs Mabuhay Germany 2023 is a unique platform where business leaders, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals come together to explore innovative ideas, foster collaboration, and seize new opportunities. Says GPCCI Executive Director Christopher Zimmer. Furthermore, our grand event this year will not only be a reunion but also a reimagining of our event, where we will witness new experiences from our participants. I encourage our attendees to join us as we unlock tomorrows potential, and harness the power of connection to propel their businesses and professional growth forward, said GPCCI President Stefan Schmitz. Topics That Shape Tomorrow The events agenda includes discussions on the intersection of sustainability, productivity, and profitability. Learn how sustainable manufacturing practices and the circular economy can meet present needs without compromising the future. Discover strategies for achieving business success while reducing business carbon footprint. An Immersive Experience Awaits Mabuhay Germany 2023 offers a wide array of immersive activities, including: Trade Exhibitions Whether youre a seasoned business leader or an aspiring entrepreneur, the Trade Exhibitions offer a wealth of inspiration and business prospects. Industry Forums #MabuhayGermany2023 Industry Forums are your gateway to meaningful discussions led by industry experts. Engage in these forums and gain a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape. Plenary Sessions Listen to keynote speakers and thought leaders who have pioneered innovation and transformation. Partners Night Networking isnt just about collecting business cards; its about forging meaningful connections. Partners Night is your chance to meet like-minded professionals who share your vision and ambition. Business Matching Opportunities are the lifeblood of growth, and our #MabuhayGermany2023s Business Matching sessions are where these opportunities come to life. Find the right connections and discover new horizons for your business. Start-Up Pitching Competition Meet promising innovators and disruptors during the Start-Up Pitching competition. Be inspired by their creativity, vision, and determination as they vie for recognition and support. Dont miss out on this unique opportunity to be part of an event that is shaping the future of business between the Philippines and Germany. Register today for GPCCI Mabuhay Germany 2023 and join us in Unleashing the Potential of Tomorrow. Admission is free. For more information, visit https://philippinen.ahk.de/en/ or call +63(2)-519-8110. For updates and announcements, follow GPCCI on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Cebuana Lhuillier Bank, one of the Philippines most dynamic rural banks, announced its strategic partnership with Temenos, the worlds leading open platform for composable banking, to update its core banking platform in a significant stride toward reshaping the rural banking landscape in the country. Central to this collaboration is Cebuana Lhuillier Banks commitment to financial inclusion. Through Temenos core banking platform, Cebuana Lhuillier Bank, which serves more than seven million Filipinos, can oversee customer accounts with efficiency and introduce accessible lending products such as motorcycle and salary loans, giving clients a more convenient and seamless banking experience. Cebuana Lhuilliers commitment to financial inclusion remains steadfast. In a nation where access to reliable financial services is paramount, this collaboration strengthens our resolve to provide better services, products, and opportunities for Filipinos to create meaningful change, commented Jean Henri Lhuillier, President & CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier and Vice Chairman of Cebuana Lhuillier Bank. This partnership also ensures Cebuana Lhuillier Bank, through the Temenos solution, can adapt seamlessly to evolving market conditions and local regulatory solutions, and effectively meet the dynamic needs of its valued customers. The financial industry is continuously evolving due to rapid technological advancements. Our clients needs are changing, and it is our responsibility to not only meet but exceed those expectations. This alliance marks as a testament to our commitment to embrace innovation and redefine the banking experience for our valued customers, added Dennis Valdes, President of Cebuana Lhuillier Bank. We are delighted to welcome Cebuana Lhuillier Bank as the newest member of our Temenos family in the Philippines. With a robust presence in the country, our partnership with Cebuana Lhuillier Bank reinforces Temenos position as a compelling choice for banks across various sizes and segments, including rural and thrift banks. We are everyones banking platform. We eagerly anticipate supporting Cebuana Lhuillier Banks journey towards greater success, said Ramki Ramakrishnan, Managing Director APAC of Temenos. We are thrilled to embark on Cebuana Lhuillier Banks core modernization program in the Philippines. Our comprehensive offerings around Temenos, coupled with our regional presence in the Philippines, position us well to ensure a successful core banking transformation. This deal strengthens and builds on our core offering along with Temenos and aligns with our strategy to accelerate digital transformation initiatives for our clients, added Anoop Gala, Global Head of Financial Services of Orion Innovation. The Temenos solution will be implemented by its delivery partner Orion Innovation. Orion provides a suite of digital services and technology solutions that help banks modernize and transform their legacy systems and design and develop next-generation products that allow the banks to create new business opportunities. Being a Temenos multi-regional partner, Orion specializes in delivering full-service implementation & integration capabilities in core banking, payments and digital banking solutions to Temenos clients across the globe. This is an American history educational moment of those who made a difference during the Revolutionary War era and how they served our country. On Jan. 1, 1745, Anthony Wayne was born in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania. He attended the Philadelphia Academy, excelling in math. Being talented with calculations, he became a surveyor. Involved with land speculation connected Wayne to Benjamin Franklin, who taught Wayne about the political disagreements between the colonies and Britain. Wayne then served in the Pennsylvania legislature and its regional Committee of Public Safety. As friction intensified against Britain, Wayne entered the military to serve, as had his father and grandfather. In January 1776, Wayne was commissioned a colonel in the Continental Army. Wayne won and lost battles, as is typical in military conflicts. At the Battle of Three Rivers, he saw action in Canada and received minor injuries. Next, he and his troops proceeded to the Battle of Brandywine. The Hessian and British soldiers outnumbered Wayne, causing the patriots to retreat. Wayne requested a court-marital to investigate his leadership, judgment and battle carnage, including the Battle of Paoli. The court acquitted Wayne with the highest honor (actions of a) brave and vigilant officer. Wayne was also defeated at Germantown. Regrouping his militia, he moved west, eventually coming to Valley Forge for the winter. In February 1778, he traveled to New Jersey for vital provisions for his soldiers. On June 28, 1778, at the Battle of Monmouth, Wayne and Gen. Charles Lee engaged the British. Lee retreated, leaving Wayne and his men in a dire situation. With reinforcements that George Washington ordered, Wayne and his troops encircled the British, causing them to flee. The Battle of Stony Point was a minor clash but had a great psychological uplift for the American soldiers. With the British focused elsewhere, Washington and Wayne created a plan to retake Stony Point. Wayne saw this as an opportunity for revenge for earlier battles, especially Paoli. On July 15, 1779, Wayne was victorious by overpowering the British using guerrilla tactics. Wayne remained on duty throughout the Revolution. He testified before Congress about the needs of soldiers and calmed the troops when they were threatening mutiny. He also served in other battles and oversaw the liberation of Charleston, South Carolina. He was promoted to major general because of his loyalty, leadership, and bravery on and off the battlefield. In civilian life, Wayne was not successful as a farmer or politician. He was elected to office and then resigned over disputes concerning the election. He again found his calling when President Washington appointed him as the commanding general of the United States Army (1792 to his death in 1796). While overseeing the Army, Wayne was successful in various battles that led to ending turmoil in the new nation. These included the Battle of Fallen Timbers and the negotiation of the Treaty of Greenville that established borders of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Michigan. During his career, Anthony Wayne was awarded a gold medal for his gallant service and earned the nickname Mad Anthony. This moniker came from his commanding leadership, valiant personality, and battle strategies. On Dec. 15, 1796, this fiery patriot died from gout while returning home from a military detail and was buried in Wayne, Pennsylvania. McDowell County Schools, in partnership with The McDowell News, will be featuring an Alumni Spotlight. This spotlight is an opportunity to showcase the many accomplishments and careers of McDowell County Schools alumni. The first Alumni Spotlight is Hayden Vaughn. He is a 2019 graduate of McDowell High School. He was a Morehead-Cain Scholar who attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Vaughn graduated in May of 2023 with a degree in biology with minors in chemistry and Spanish. While at McDowell, he was Mr. MHS of the 2018-19 school year and has never lost his desire to help others. Currently, Vaughn is on a gap year and is giving back to the school system by substituting for the MHS science department. In November, he plans to travel to Costa Rica then travel to other international locations in the spring. He will return to University of North Carolina School of Medicine in July of 2024 to begin the MD program. I love school and I love learning, which is evident as I am going to dedicate the next decade of my life to learning, Vaughn said. I hope everyone finds and values the power that knowledge has to create positive change in our world. When Watts Auman, beloved community and political leader in Moore County, died at 84 on Sept. 17, I knew that I would have to write about him. But there is a problem. Whenever I have written about Watts in the past, the column turned out to be more about me than him. There is a reason. My connection with Watts and the lessons I learned from and with him have been important, perhaps life changing. So I cannot write about Watts without trying to explain how much I learned because of him. When I first arrived at Fort Bragg (now Fort Liberty) in late 1963 and was being taken around to see the important places that airborne troops need to know, I learned that my Davidson College friend Watts Auman was commanding a team of airborne riggers. As paratroopers know, riggers are among the most important people in airborne. They pack the parachutes, new and used, and get them ready for use. A mistake could lead to a tragedy. Watts and the people under his command regularly made airplane jumps using the parachutes that they had prepared. Wattss quiet leadership made him a perfect commander of these riggers. For a short time Watts and I lived with seven other junior officers in a house at 1805 Bragg Boulevard in Fayetteville. But soon Watts completed his service and returned to the family farm near West End in Moore County. Meanwhile, I was assigned to an intelligence detachment of the Special Forces. One of my first assignments was to participate in the war games in the area known as Swift Strike as an underground spy in Moore County. Watts and his parents let me live with them for several weeks and pretend to be a part of their family. One of the first things I saw in the Auman home was a plug of chewing tobacco encased in plastic and sitting in a prominent place on the coffee table in their living room. What in the world it that? I asked. That was Kerr Scotts favorite chewing tobacco, Wattss mother explained. Terry Sanford, who ran Scotts campaign for the U.S. Senate in 1954, sent tobacco plugs to the key campaign workers like Clyde Auman, Watts father. He had been Kerr Scotts county chair and was now campaigning for a seat in the North Carolina House. I learned how much struggling farmers appreciated the roads and services that Kerr Scott had pushed through while governor. Watts led me around the farm. Although the Aumans were best known for peaches, they also farmed other crops. He showed me how to string tobacco, take it down, bind it up, and send it to market. I watched as Watts worked with the farm workers. Always quiet and respectful, but he was also demanding. It was clear that Watts had earned their respect. One day, Watts and I took a small crop of field peas to the Farmers Market in Raleigh, selling them for almost enough to cover the cost of the gas it took to there. Clyde Auman let me follow him around from event to event as he campaigned for the legislature. Like Watts, Clyde Auman was quiet and modest in a winning way. But that modesty made it a challenge to create campaign materials. Even though Moore County was still Democratic, a candidate had to be careful to appeal to traditional Republicans in the northern part of the country and to conservatives in Pinehurst and Southern Pines. But our candidate was slow to brag. In those few weeks in the Auman home, I learned more about farming and politics and the strength of humility than I did about spying. Watts leaves hundreds, maybe thousands, of Auman kin across the state and region, almost all sharing Wattss commitment to community, especially his sisters Nancy Cunningham and Laura Pitts and his brother Bob. Without Bobs suggestions for column topics and his careful reading and correction of drafts, I could not continue writing this column. For Wattss friendship and example and for my connection to his family, I will always be grateful. The Ghana Airport Company Limited (GACL) has been slapped with 200,000 fine by the Right to Information (RTI) Commission for failing to comply with directives to provide access to information. The fine has been confirmed on Wednesday, September 27. The Commissions decision came in response to a letter from the Managing Director of GACL, Mrs Pamela Djamson-Tettey dated September 7, 2023. The MD had requested a one-week extension to gather and submit information to JoyNews Head of Research, Raymond Acquah, as directed by the Commission. In a letter dated September 20, 2023, with reference number RTIG/RF/voL4/856, the Commission expressed its dissatisfaction with GACLs delay in providing the requested information. The Commission had previously issued directives on February 3, 2023, and February 16, 2023, specifying the format in which the information should be submitted, and emphasized that the information was already available. The Commission, while acknowledging the principle of fairness, granted GACL a one-week extension as requested. However, it firmly rejected GACLs appeal for the waiver of the administrative penalty of 200,000 imposed by the Commission in a letter dated August 23, 2023. The Commission justified its decision by highlighting the lack of cooperation from GACL in complying with their earlier directives. The Commission viewed this as a deliberate attempt to hinder the implementation of the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989), which grants the Commission the authority to impose administrative penalties on entities that fail to comply with their obligations under the Act. The United States will continue to support civilian-led armies in Africa, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in Luanda on Wednesday, September 27, blaming militaries on the continent for subverting the will of the people through coups detat. When generals subvert the will of the people and put their own ambitions above the rule of law, the security situation deteriorates, and democracy dies, said Mr. Austin in a speech on U.S. security partnerships in Africa, delivered in the Angolan capital. The Defense Secretary reiterated the US commitment to support government policies that advance peace, security, and democratic governance together, stressing that these elements are inseparable. Africa needs armies that serve its citizens, not the other way around, he added. Mr. Austins visit to Angola, a first for an American Secretary of Defense, is the third and final stop on his African tour, following Djibouti and Kenya. While in Nairobi on Monday, the Secretary of Defense indicated that the United States was evaluating various options concerning the future of its military presence in Niger, the day after France announced the withdrawal of its troops. The United States has some 1,100 troops stationed in Niger, engaged against jihadist groups active in the region. Niger is one of six African countries where the military has taken power by force in the last three years, along with Gabon, Burkina Faso, Mali, Sudan, and Guinea. 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: Rabies virus is incurable and almost always fatal once it has invaded the central nervous system, with the victim doomed to suffer a horrible death. But researchers now think they've found an effective and simple treatment that can cure even advanced cases of rabies. A monoclonal antibody injected into lab mice successfully protected them from a lethal dose of rabies virus, researchers reported in a World Rabies Day article published online Sept. 28 in EMBO Molecular Medicine. "I would say this is the first practical therapy for rabies," said senior researcher Brian Schaefer, a professor of immunology at Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, Md. The antibody was created using Australian bat lyssavirus, a close cousin of rabies virus. The researchers designed the antibody to block the rabies virus and prevent its spread. "This antibody is specific for the cell surface protein on all those lyssaviruses that enables the lyssavirus to attach to target cells and infect those cells," Schaefer said. Prior efforts to treat advanced rabies have failed because treatments have been unable to pass through the blood-brain barrier, the study authors noted. But this antibody, even though it's too big to slip into the nervous system and treat rabies directly, appears to prime the immune system to effectively fight the virus in the brain and spinal cord, Schaefer said. The researchers were surprised to find that a single dose of the antibody effectively reversed rabies infection even after it had reached the nervous system, preventing death. This antibody appears to spur the immune system to create smaller immune cells that can pass through the blood-brain barrier and into the nervous system, where they effectively target and destroy rabies virus, the findings showed. "It seems like what the antibody is doing is acting in the periphery, acting outside of the brain to change the immune response in such a way that the immune cells that go into the brain are now successfully able to fight the infection," Schaefer said. Low levels of the virus remained in the mice that received the antibody, but those levels didn't increase and signs of rabies did not immediately return, the results showed. The next step would be to create a version of this antibody for humans and to test it in clinical trials, but that's a huge next step, Schaefer said. Rabies virus kills virtually no one in the United States, given Americans' access to immediate therapies that prevent advanced disease, he noted. Rabies does kill about 60,000 people around the world each year, mostly in developing countries, so it's there that clinical trials would have to take place. "Probably the best place for this would be someplace like India where they have a pretty advanced health care system, but they also still have a lot of cases of advanced-stage rabies," Schaefer said. "It would take something like a drug company or maybe a government to put a lot of money behind it to actually do the human testing." Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases and preventive medicine at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn., emphasized that these are "early days" for this potential treatment. "Mouse studies are one thing. Studies in people are something else," Schaffner said. "But nonetheless, if you could see me, I would be jumping up and down in my chair a little bit. Because until now, there's really been no reliable treatment for rabies once that infection has become established. Given its success in mice, it certainly deserves further investigation in other animals." This potential cure for advanced rabies is particularly promising because it could be distributed easily to places that need it, Schaffner said. "Monoclonal antibodies can be produced fairly readily now and could be widely distributed around the world," he said. "We could treat those cases, and they're 100% fatal now. Once this disease gets established, there are only a literal handful of cases that have been treated and have survived rabies." The need for therapy is evident, Schaffner said. "If this pans out, it would clearly advance what it is that we could do to mitigate the impact of this terrible disease," he added. More information: Kate E Mastraccio et al, mAb therapy controls CNSresident lyssavirus infection via a CD4 T celldependent mechanism, EMBO Molecular Medicine (2023). DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202216394 Journal information: EMBO Molecular Medicine Copyright 2023 HealthDay. All rights reserved. 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 venom of the poisonous banana spider has led to the discovery of a molecule which will treat erectile dysfunction. Three decades ago, Brazilian researchers began studying a curious side effect from banana spider bites: the toxin left victims with priapism, a painful and persistent erection. The scientists were inspired to develop a synthetic molecule using some properties of the spider's venom to create a gel to treat erectile dysfunction, which is now undergoing promising clinical trials. Covered in thick brown hair, and with a maximum size of up to 15 centimeters (six inches), the arachnid is one of the most venomous in the world. It is found in several South American countries, and was nicknamed for its common presence in banana plantations, but it is also called the "wandering spider" or "armed spider." In the southeastern Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, it is found in rural areas as well as urban centers. At the Ezequiel Dias Foundation (FUNED), a medical research center in the state's capital Belo Horizonte, a biologist delicately grabs one of the spiders with a pair of tweezers and stimulates its fangs to get a few drops of venom. FUNED then sends the venom to the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) which has been researching which component could be replicated to treat erectile dysfunction, which affects tens of millions of men around the world. Scientist Marcia Helena Borges is on the team working to develop a medicine to treat erectile dysfunction, inspired by spider venom. "The venom is only used to learn the properties of the molecule" which causes the priapism in bite victims, said Maria Elena de Lima, a UFMG researcher. Brazilian biotech company Biozeus has bought the patent for the molecule. The company wants to sell it in an ointment, which would be rubbed on the penis when required, resulting in an erection in a few minutes, said de Lima. The molecule triggers the release of nitric oxide, which is essential for an erection as it increases blood circulation and allows blood vessels to widen. De Lima said the research could be especially useful in the fight against cancer, as men suffering prostate cancer often refuse a procedure to remove the prostate because it can damage nerves and lead to erectile dysfunction. After the first phase of clinical trials was approved by Brazil's Anvisa regulatory agency, the medication has now moved into the second of three phases prior to being approved for sale. De Lima said the discovery of a potential erectile dysfunction treatment was a message "not to destroy animals, even venomous ones, because there is a real library of molecules that are still unknown." 2023 AFP This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain A new editorial paper titled "Reassessing the risks and benefits of COVID-19 precautions in 2023" has been published in Oncotarget. The COVID-19 pandemic has killed over one million Americans, with many dying during the omicron wave. By now most Americans have either had COVID-19 and/or been vaccinated against it. Despite the availability of updated immunizations, only 16.7% of Americans are now up-to-date on bivalent boosters. In their new editorial, researchers Thomas A. Ollila, Rashida Taher and Prashanth Moku from the Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Rhode Island Hospital discuss the current state of COVID-19 treatment. "At our cancer center, we treat many patients with hematologic malignancies, most of whom are older adults," the researchers note. Patients with hematologic malignancies, especially lymphoma, are at increased risk of poor response to vaccination and worse outcomes from COVID-19 infection. The researchers state that most of their patients have been abundantly cautious since the onset of the pandemic and some have avoided ever becoming infected. Patients in their clinic frequently inquire about the safety of being outdoors, spending time with their families during large gatherings (Christmas, Thanksgiving, etc.), and methods to prevent the contraction of COVID-19. Credit: Impact Journals LLC "Despite these precautions, too many patients reached remission from cancer only to then perish from COVID-19 in the first years of the pandemic," the researchers observe. The concerns behind their questions are very real, but understanding how to best answer them is not always easy and their abundance of caution is not without cost. Grandchildren's birthdays went uncelebrated, weddings were forgone, and memorable moments with loved ones were lost. With both aging and malignancy, an acute awareness of the limited days means that there may not be years ahead to make up for all that was missed. "Although COVID-19 continues to pose a serious threat, medical advancements have now allowed for a more in-depth risk-benefit discussion to weigh the risk of infection versus the challenges of social isolation," the research team notes. More information: Thomas A. Ollila et al, Reassessing the risks and benefits of COVID-19 precautions in 2023, Oncotarget (2023). DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.28468 Journal information: Oncotarget Provided by Impact Journals 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: Necroptosis is a form of programmed necrosis that promotes cell death and neuroinflammation, and it is suggested that necroptosis is activated in Alzheimer disease (AD) brains, resulting in neuronal death and cognitive impairment. One of the supplement's articles provides further insight into clinical perspectives and challenges for the future treatment of AD by targeting the necroptosis pathway. Credit: R. Zhang, Y. Song, X. Su, Necroptosis and Alzheimer's Disease: Pathogenic Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities, https://doi.org/10.3233/JAD-220809, Journal of Alzheimer's Disease A special supplement to the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease presents insights and new directions in both basic and clinical research into neurodegenerative diseases. Because by 2050, the number of people suffering from brain disorders is estimated to reach 155 million, now is the time to think innovatively to discover new pathways for future brain studies. Neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases are currently affecting 55 million people worldwide. With no cure in sight, it is of vital importance to understand more of our brain's biology to alleviate the burden of brain disorders. Co-Guest Editor of the supplement, Jagannatha Rao Kosagisharaf, Ph.D., Pro-Chancellor, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation (KLEF) Deemed to be University, Vaddeswaram, Andhra Pradesh, India; and SNI, INDICASAT AIP, Panama, explains, "One of the key issues is the increased incidence of neurodegenerative disorders in the world population, primarily due to an increase in life expectancy." "Despite an enormous upsurge in our understanding of the cellular and molecular pathways associated with cell death, the key molecular determinants to modulate these processes in human diseases are still not revealed, hindering the development of effective treatments and prevention avenues for aging and neurodegeneration. In the near future, many new innovative approaches are needed to understand novel molecular pathways and therapeutics in neurodegenerative diseases." This supplement is a topical collection of curated thematic reviews and research papers on novel molecular pathways and therapeutic challenges in neurodegenerative diseases. It explores the following themes: Novel small molecules with neuroprotection properties Novel therapeutic approaches other than chemical molecules Role of gut microbiota in neurodegeneration therapeutics New and novel metabolic pathways in neuronal cell death including novel biomarkers The supplement encompasses several pioneering approaches to understanding neurodegenerative diseases. "With a series of studies, it explores novel molecular pathways, potential therapeutic targets, non-chemical treatments, and the role of gut microbiota and metabolic pathways in neurodegeneration. Each study makes a unique contribution to our understanding, offering fresh perspectives on neuroprotection properties, disease-modifying strategies, and potential biomarkers in neurodegenerative conditions," says co-Guest Editor Muralidhar L. Hegde, Ph.D., Division of DNA Repair Research, Center for Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute and Weill Cornell Medical College. One of the articles explores the benefits of acupuncture therapy (AT) in improving dementia. Previous studies have shown AT positively improves the cognitive function of dementia patients, but systematic multi-target and multi-mechanism studies of AT on dementia patients remain limited and need further exploration. Lead investigator Yaogang Wang, Ph.D., School of Integrative Medicine, Public Health Science and Engineering College, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, China, notes, "We conducted an integrated analysis of AT in treating Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia to identify shared and mutually independent therapeutic targets and biological mechanisms to provide a comprehensive perspective on the potential therapeutic effects of AT." "We conclude that acupuncture as an effective and safe treatment holds additional and considerable benefits in avoiding or mitigating the possible long-term side effects of pharmacological therapy, assisting the current management strategy, as well as improving the patients' quality of life and relieving the pressure on health systems." Dr. Jagannatha Rao concludes, "This supplement represents the significant progress in the ongoing exploration of neurodegenerative diseases. It delivers a wealth of insights that enhance our comprehension of these conditions, providing hope for a brighter future in neurotherapeutics. The promising developments presented underscore the urgency and potential in neurodegenerative research and illuminate our path towards overcoming these challenging health issues by 2050." "Families of those with Alzheimer's disease are waiting for novel insights that can lead to effective therapeutics and an eventual cure. This issue brings together ideas from some of the brightest minds to move the field forward," adds George Perry, Ph.D., Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, and Semmes Foundation Distinguished University Chair in Neurobiology at The University of Texas at San Antonio. More information: Dun Li et al, Acupuncture Therapy on Dementia: Explained with an Integrated Analysis on Therapeutic Targets and Associated Mechanisms, Journal of Alzheimer's Disease (2023). DOI: 10.3233/JAD-221018 Journal information: Journal of Alzheimer's Disease 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: Researchers mapped the early visual system of a tiny parasitic wasp. Each of the wasp's 29 compound eye facets (top right) sends signals to a part of the brain called the lamina (left). The researchers found that the patterns of how synapses connect the various neurons (colored lines) reveal how different parts of the eye contribute to the wasp's sight. Credit: N.J. Chua et al./Current Biology 2023 Neuroscientists at the Flatiron Institute in New York City and their colleagues have made a big breakthrough using one of the world's smallest brains. Using an ion beam, an electron microscope and a lot of patience, the neuroscientists mapped out the entire early visual systemfrom the eyes that take in light to the neurons processing the informationfor a parasitic wasp smaller than a grain of table salt. The feat marks the first time scientists have fully reconstructed such a system at the synaptic level from a single specimen of any animal species, the neuroscientists report in Current Biology. While the tiny wasp has a minuscule brain (with just 8,600 cells compared to the typical human's 171 billion), the itsy-bitsy insect is still capable of complex behaviors such as flight. "It's incredible that there's still so much complexity in such a small brain," says study lead author Nicholas Chua, a former research analyst at the Flatiron Institute's Center for Computational Neuroscience (CCN) who is now a Columbia University graduate student. The wasp's brain turned out to be "very similar to bigger brains, but simpler and smaller," says study senior author Dmitri Chklovskii, a group leader at the CCN. The researchers are now mapping the wasp's full brain, he says. Credit: Simons Foundation "The thought is that the principles by which the neurons and the neuronal circuits operate are the same between us and other animals," he says, "and so that's why we think that we can take what we learn from insects and apply it to the human brain." Understanding bug brains could also help researchers improve artificial intelligence tools, Chklovskii says. "When artificial neural networks were first created 70 years ago, they were inspired by the knowledge of neurons in the brain," he says. "But our knowledge has progressed significantly since then. Capabilities of the human brain exceed that of artificial intelligence, and we know that it is built by different rules, so there must be some secret sauce that biology has that can help us build better AI." Chklovskii's group at the CCN worked on the project in collaboration with the groups of Harald Hess of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Janelia Research Campus and Alexey Polilov of Moscow State University. Studying the most basic brains in the animal kingdom makes it easier to identify the mechanisms and rules that govern complex behaviors, Chklovskii says. The parasitic wasp Megaphragma viggianii is an ideal subject for such a task. This microscopic wasp is only around 200 micrometers long, but it can fly and seek out the eggs of insects called thrips, in which the wasps lay their own eggs. The species had to shrink drastically to get that small: Some of the wasp's cells even forgo nuclei to save space. Fruit flies, a favorite subject of biologists, are around 3,000 micrometers long and have more than 10 times as many cells in their brains as the wasps. "A fruit fly is like an elephant compared to this," Chklovskii says. "This whole creature fits into a fruit fly's eye." The neuroscientists faced a major challenge when mapping out the entire early visual system from the fruit fly's eyes all the way to the neurons that perform the initial visual processing. Previously, scientists used several different specimens to make such maps. That approach, however, meant that not everything matched up due to variations between the individual specimens. A specimen of Megaphragma viggianii, a parasitic wasp the size of some single-celled organisms such as amoebas. The tiny insect exhibits complex behaviors such as flight despite its small stature and brain, making it a useful tool for understanding how brains work. In a recent study, researchers at the Flatiron Institute and their colleagues mapped out the wasp's full early visual system. Credit: Alexey Polilov Instead, the neuroscientists used just a single wasp. Its cells were too small to image using light, so they shot a beam of electrons at the insect and recorded how the electrons scattered. After each pass, the researchers used an ion beam to shave a thin layer off the insect, revealing a deeper level of the insect's head. Next, the researchers mapped out the wasp's brain cells and the connections between them, called synapses. They had to do this mostly by hand, an incredibly laborious undertaking. (For future studies, they have begun implementing an AI-powered tool that speeds up the process.) Using this method, the neuroscientists gained a greater appreciation for how the wasps see and process visual information. For instance, they discovered how different parts of the wasp's eyes contribute to the creature's vision and found that the wasps can detect the polarization of lightsomething not previously known about the species. The next step for the neuroscientists is to map out the rest of the wasp's brain to reveal the entire interconnected framework that the insect uses for complex behavior. "After that, we want to apply the principles that we will learn from these simpler, bare-bones systems to more complex brains like ours," Chklovskii says. Provided by Simons Foundation 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 Scientists have revealed that the use of an animal rescue systemHawk Data Proproved to be a vital "One Health" surveillance tool as part of a rapid response to a potentially deadly rabies outbreak in Pune city, India. The study, published in the journal CABI One Health to coincide with World Rabies Day (28 September), highlights how systemssuch as Hawk Data Procan be "modified or adapted to other areas" and help eradicate rabies around the world. The paper is titled "A passive One Health surveillance system to track canine rabies in urban India." Dr. Abi Tamim Vanak, lead author of the research from the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE) in India, said robust and widely implementable "One Health" surveillance systems are needed to detect and control the spread of zoonotic infectious diseases including rabies. True burden of rabies According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the true burden of rabies in India is not fully known but it is believed to cause up to 20,000 deaths every year. Dogs are the source of the vast majority of human rabies deaths, contributing up to 99% of all rabies transmissions to humans. Between 30 to 60% of reported cases and deaths in India occur in children under the age of 15. This is because bites that occur in children often go unrecognized and unreported. However, rabies is a vaccine-preventable viral disease which occurs in more than 150 countries and territories. Rapid diagnosis and response Dr. Vanak said, "Using technological tools coupled with a rapid field response and rapid diagnostics can help in the surveillance of deadly diseases such as rabies, even in densely populated urban areas. "We show that the adoption of the Hawk Data Pro system as a passive surveillance tool allowed us to document an ongoing outbreak of rabies in a large metropolis in India. "Such systems can be modified or adapted to other areas as well to meet the surveillance and reporting requirements of the WHO's Zeroby30 strategy to eliminate rabies globally." Sick animals reported The researchers used a webline and helpline that reported injured or sick animals to an animal rescue facility to determine possible rabies cases in street animals in Pune city in western India. Suspected rabid animals were tested using lateral flow assays and this information was used to direct awareness materials on rabies as well as in conducting mass dog vaccinations in areas that reported multiple cases. Over a four-year period, the scientists received nearly 91,000 calls or reports of which 1,162 were for suspected rabies cases in dogs, and six for other animals including cats, goats and cattle. Of these, 749 dogs and four other animals tested positive for rabies. Most of the cases were reported from the densely human populated center Pune region. In response, around 21,000 people were provided with educational materials on post-bite management and in the region of 23,000 dogs were vaccinated. National action plan The Indian Government's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, together with the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, has created a National Action Plan for dog-mediated Rabies Elimination (NAPRE) to be implemented in India by 2030. Co-author Neha Panchamiya said, "Strengthening surveillance systems is integral to address the under-reporting of rabies and to achieve the target of eliminating rabies before the end of the decade. "Helpline and web portal-based notification of animal rabies can serve both human and animal health components. "The approach can be adapted for continuous One Health rabies surveillance and is well aligned with the newly designed objectives of NAPRE, a plan developed with consideration for intersectoral planning, operational research and based on the One Health approach." More information: Abi Tamim Vanak et al, A passive 'One Health' surveillance system to track canine rabies in urban India, CABI One Health (2023). DOI: 10.1079/cabionehealth.2023.0022 Provided by CABI 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: Regression of effect size (d) and selected variables. a, Meta-regression analysis (method of moments) of the trial outcome by placebo response (left) and active response (right). b, Meta-regression analysis (method of moments) of the placebo response (left) and active response (middle) with the publication year, and linear regression analysis of the trial outcome with the publication year (right). For all plots, two-sided P values are denoted by the 95% CI data. q, adjusted P value. A-S(%SR), difference between active TMS %SR and placebo %SR. Credit: Nature Mental Health (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s44220-023-00118-9 A team of medical researchers from Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Central South University and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, all in China, has found evidence suggesting that the placebo effect has grown stronger in trials of transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy for patients treated for depression. In their study, reported in the journal Nature Mental Health, the group analyzed data from prior research efforts focused on testing the effectiveness of transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy. Prior research has shown that the placebo effectwhere a patient is given a "sham" medication or therapy to treat an ailment instead of a real onecan be an effective means of treating some conditions. And while the means by which the placebo effect works is not understood, it has been shown to alleviate symptoms in some people. Prior research has also suggested that the placebo effect might be growing stronger in recent yearstests with placebo pills are now providing even more benefits than those that were used in the past. Why this may be the case is not known, though some in the psychiatry field have suggested it is due to an increase in trust in the psychiatry profession. In this new effort, the researchers wondered if a similar increase might be observed with transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy. In transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy, a device is attached to the head of a patient as a means of applying a magnetic field to desired parts of the brain. This may stimulate neuronal activity, resulting in reduction in depression symptoms. Such therapy is conducted in a repetitive manner over the course of several months. To find out if a placebo effect might be growing stronger with transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy, the research team studied data from two trials that were involved in testing the effectiveness of the therapy technique; one conducted over the years 1999 to 2007, the other from 2018 to 2022. Both involved the traditional therapy and a control, where a device was attached to the patient's head but no magnetic stimulation was applied. Both teams had found during their respective trials that the placebo effect worked almost as well as the real therapy. In comparing the two trials, the research team found that the placebo effect was stronger in the second trial, suggesting it was growing stronger over time. The researchers suggest that the increase was likely due to a stronger belief by patients that the therapy was going to help them. More information: Yangting Xu et al, Growing placebo response in TMS treatment for depression: a meta-analysis of 27-year randomized sham-controlled trials, Nature Mental Health (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s44220-023-00118-9 Journal information: Nature Mental Health 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: Density map of geographical spread of trials. Credit: BMC Cancer (2023). DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11300-8 Results from the largest ever review of clinical trials in cancer screening, prevention, and early detection (SPED) have been published. The review, published in BMC Cancer, found that 61% of all SPED trials focused on just three cancer typescolorectal, breast, and cervical cancer. This compares with 6.4% in lung cancer and 1.8% in liver cancer, which are responsible for 26.3% of global cancer deaths compared with 19.3% for colorectal, breast, and cervical cancer. Researchers identified areas of unmet needs around the world to highlight where more research and funding is needed. A total of 88% of all SPED trials were conducted in North America, Europe, or Asia, with a lack of trials conducted in Africa and South America and a very low number of trials per head of population In Asia. Results also highlighted that significant disparities exist between the proportion of SPED trials for certain cancer types and their global burden of disease. For example, colorectal cancer accounted for 32.9% of all SPED trials and 9.4% of global cancer deaths, while gastric cancers accounted for 1.5% of SPED trials and 7.7% of global cancer deaths. This study, led by researchers at the universities of Nottingham and Manchester, involved researchers from seven different universities across England and Scotland. Dr. Emma O'Dowd, Consultant Respiratory Physician and Associate Professor at the University of Nottingham, says, "Cancer is the most common cause of death and disability in the UK and the second most common cause globally. Global annual cancer incidence is forecast to rise to 27.5 million by 2040, a 62% increase from 2018. For most cancers, prevention and early detection are the most effective ways of reducing mortality. "We looked at all trials published between 2007 and 2020 covering cancer screening, prevention, and early diagnosis to map what research had been done by cancer type, trial focus and geographical area, and to highlight research gaps. "Over 117,000 papers were identified, and 2,888 trials were included. There were disparities in terms of geographical location, type of research conducted and a clear focus on a small number of cancer types. We hope that this important piece of work can be used to guide and prioritize future trial funding." Dr. Elizabeth Roundhill, Research Fellow in the School of Medicine, University of Leeds, comments, "Our research has revealed that even though lung and liver cancers together cause more than a quarter of cancer deaths worldwide, they are less likely to be examined in screening, prevention and early diagnosis (SPED) trials. We also found there was a distinct lack of trials in cancers common in children and young people including sarcomas, blood cancers and brain tumors. "Importantly, only 12% of SPED cancer trials have taken place in the Global South, meaning that the benefits of implementing SPED interventions in some of the world's most populous regions remain unknown. "With almost half of all cancers in the UK having a potentially preventable cause, this work calls for a greater focus on SPED research, including in the UK. We hope that these findings will encourage funders, policy makers and researchers to target resources towards addressing these major health inequalities in the future." More information: Emma L. O'Dowd et al, Clinical trials in cancer screening, prevention and early diagnosis (SPED): a systematic mapping review, BMC Cancer (2023). DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11300-8 Journal information: BMC Cancer 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 Cambridge researchers have found that women who smoke during pregnancy are 2.6 times more likely to give birth prematurely compared to non-smokersmore than double the previous estimate. The study, published today in the International Journal of Epidemiology, also found that smoking meant that the baby was four times more likely to be small for its gestational age, putting it at risk of potentially serious complications including breathing difficulties and infections. But the team found no evidence that caffeine intake was linked to adverse outcomes. Women are currently recommended to stop smoking and limit their caffeine intake during pregnancy because of the risk of complications to the baby. For example, smoking during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of fetal growth restriction, premature birth and low birthweight, though it has also been linked to a reduced risk of preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy). High caffeine intake has also been shown to be associated with lower birthweights and possibly fetal growth restriction. Caffeine is more difficult to avoid than cigarette smoke as is found in coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks, soft drinks, and certain medications. Studies looking at the links between smoking, caffeine and adverse pregnancy outcomes tend to rely on self-reported data to estimate exposure, which is not always reliable. A more objective measure is to look at levels of metabolites in the bloodchemical by-products created when substances such as tobacco and caffeine are processed in the body. Researchers at the University of Cambridge and the Rosie Hospital, part of Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, recruited more than 4,200 women who attended the hospital between 2008 and 2012 as part of the Pregnancy Outcome Prediction (POP) study. The team analyzed blood samples taken from a subset of these women four times during their pregnancies. To assess exposure to cigarette smoke, the team looked at levels of the metabolite cotinine, which can be detected in blood, urine, and saliva. Only two out of three women with detectable levels of cotinine in every blood sample were self-reported smokers, showing that this measure is a more objective way of assessing smoking behavior. In total, 914 women were included in the smoking analysis. Of these, 78.6% were classified as having no exposure to smoking while pregnant, 11.7% as having some exposure and 9.7% as having consistent exposure. Compared to women who were not exposed to smoking while pregnant, those with consistent exposure were 2.6 times more likely to experience spontaneous preterm birthmore than double the previous estimate of 1.27 from a meta-analysis of studiesand 4.1 times as likely to experience fetal growth restriction. Babies born to smokers were found to be on average 387g lighter than babies born to non-smokersthat is, more than 10% smaller than the weight of an average newborn. This increases the risk that the baby will have a low birth weight (2.5kg or less), which in turn is linked to an increased risk of developmental problems as well as poorer health in later life. Unlike in previous studies, however, the team found no evidence that smoking reduced the risk of pre-eclampsia. Professor Gordon Smith, Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of Cambridge, said, "We've known for a long time that smoking during pregnancy is not good for the baby, but our study shows that it's potentially much worse than previously thought. It puts the baby at risk of potentially serious complications from growing too slowly in the womb or from being born too soon. "We hope this knowledge will help encourage pregnant mums and women planning pregnancy to access smoking-cessation services. Pregnancy is a key time when women quit and if they can remain tobacco free after the birth there are lifelong benefits for them and their child." Smoking cessation is offered routinely to all pregnant women and the NHS has local smoking cessation services for anyone, pregnant or not. Further information is available on the NHS website. To assess caffeine intake, they researchers looked for the metabolite paraxanthine, which accounts for 80% of caffeine metabolism and is both less sensitive to recent intake and more stable throughout the day. In total, 915 women were included in the caffeine analysis. Of these women, 12.8% had low levels of paraxanthine throughout pregnancy (suggesting low caffeine intake), 74.0% had moderate levels and 13.2% had high levels. There was little evidence of an association between caffeine intake and any of the adverse outcomes. More information: Roshan Selvaratnam et al, Objective measures of smoking and caffeine intake and the risk of adverse pregnancy outcome, International Journal of Epidemiology (2023). DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyad123 Journal information: International Journal of Epidemiology 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: Anne Spaulding, MD, an associate professor of epidemiology and global health at Emory Universitys Rollins School of Public Health, answers five questions about a new Emory-led study that found a significant number of U.S. state prisons are failing to adequately address a curable disease. Credit: Emory University The World Health Organization has a goal to eliminate hepatitis C as a public health threat by 2030. The blood-borne virus affects more than 2 million people in the United States and killed more than 15,700 people nationwide in 2018, even though more than 95% of people infected with hepatitis C can be cured if they get the pills to treat the disease. But a significant number of U.S. state prisons are failing to adequately address this curable disease, as approximately 55% of people in U.S. state prisons who had been infected are still not cured, according to a new Emory-led studypublished in The Journal of Infectious Diseases. We asked Anne Spaulding, MD, the study's lead author and an associate professor of epidemiology and global health at Emory University's Rollins School of Public Health, to answer five questions about why these findings are significant for both prison populations and society at large. Why is this research important to the general public? We wont achieve the goal of eliminating hepatitis C by 2030 without treating hepatitis C in the incarcerated population. The U.S. has the highest incarceration rates in the world and the prevalence of hepatitis C in prisons is about 10 times higher than it is in the general population. The driver of the hepatitis C epidemic is injection drug use, especially when people share needles. Its how the virus spreads from one person to another. To eliminate a curable infectious disease, you need to know where the hot spots are. Prisons are the hot spots for hepatitis C. Our article revealed the hottest of the hot spots. The opioid epidemic has not hit all states equally, and the legal systems response to drug use differs by state. Some states send many people who inject drugs like heroin to prison, others funnel them to rehab. Why were incarcerated populations a meaningful group to study? The incarcerated population has the highest rate of hepatitis C infection and is lagging the most in accessing care. In this study, we demonstrated that the virus was active in 55% of people in state prisons who had been infected. Everyone should have access to medical care while in prisondeliberate indifference to health needs of people in prison is a violation of the Eighth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Did anything about the study's findings surprise you? This paper examined both exposure to the virus and persistence of infection and showed that the heterogeneity of the epidemic persists. Our previous hepatitis C studies showed that the portion of prison populations that have antibodies differed by states. This new study added details on the measurement of virus levels in the blood. We are now reporting by state, the rates of active infection by these blood measurements (viremia). This greater detail amplifies the differences state by state, as opposed to just antibody prevalence (marker of past/present infection combined). Where is access to treatment most lacking? In which sector of the criminal legal population is there inadequate treatmentthats easy. Jails, short stay facilities for people awaiting trial. Most persons in prison today were previously in jail; most persons in jail dont go to prison. Nearly 10 million Americans go to jail each year, and many have untreated hepatitis C. In what prison system are there the most people who cant get treatment, and in what prison system is it hardest for an infected person to get treatment? These are difficult to answer without better data, and our study showed that how well state prisons know their epidemic varies markedly. Some states, like Mississippi, cannot tell you how many people have ever been exposed. Others, like California, can tell you how many have been exposed, how many were infected when they came in, and how many still need treatment. What did you learn from this study that can help address the problem? Measurement of the prevalence of a disease, a dashboard so to speak, provides direction for where health care planners need to expend their efforts. This was helpful with COVID-19; we need something similar for hepatitis C in incarcerated populations. Hepatitis C can be treated systematically, on a population level, by prison health services. The treatment is costly but coming down in priceso the cure of hepatitis C in prisons is feasible. More information: Anne C Spaulding et al, Estimates of Hepatitis C Seroprevalence and Viremia in State Prison Populations in the United States, The Journal of Infectious Diseases (2023). DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad227 Journal information: Journal of Infectious Diseases 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: Mehul Gupta, left, and Eddie Guo discuss how an AI tool will work to help students develop empathy. Credit: Nada Hassanin, University of Calgary Eddie Guo did a lot of self reflection and realized he needed more practice talking to patients to become an excellent doctor. But how? Medical education includes opportunities for students to practice their communication skills with standardized patients (actors who pretend to have a medical condition); however, Guo felt he needed additional interactions to improve. "It's really hard to practice communication skills with friends," says Guo a second-year medical student at the Cumming School of Medicine (CSM). "It's difficult to replicate what a professional actor can do. Also, when you're in clinic, or shadowing someone, patients don't give feedback on a person's communication skills." Guo wondered if there was a way to use AI (artificial intelligence) to create a platform to practice inquiry-based conversations. As a programmer, Guo knew that large language models, in particular OpenAI's GPT, could provide multiple simulated interactions with patients, feedback, and examples of medical documentation. He just had to build it. "I inputted several scenarios representing the first interaction with a patient in an emergency department or at a doctor's office: typical scenarios that would prompt a person to seek out a doctor, for instance, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing or the need to refill a prescription," says Guo. "To provide accurate feedback, I incorporated the same rubric we are evaluated on in the medical education program." The Calgary-Cambridge guides for interviewing patients were developed by Jonathon Silverman, University of Cambridge; Suzanne Kurtz, University of Calgary; and Julie Draper. The first publication was in 1998. The evidence-based guidelines are still used for medical education throughout the world. Guo created OSCE-GPT, an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) program where the computer is the patient. Users choose whether the patient is male or female and select a specific scenario, or a random scenario where the computer makes the choice. "As a resident, I see what a critical skill communication is," says Dr. Mehul Gupta, MD, collaborator on the project. "How you phrase things and approach situations matters. Communicating effectively requires practice. This system has the promise to really change the way health professionals interact with patients." Gupta adds that the interaction with the computer is surprisingly human-like. The app is available to anyone, for free. Users can speak any language they want, and the app will translate it into English. Within the first month of the app's launch, over 550 health care trainees from Canada and across the world including Europe, India, Saudi Arabia, and the United States signed on. "As someone who has worked in clinical education and virtualization for over a decade, it's inspiring to see the fresh strategies Eddie and Mehul bring to this challenge," says Mike Paget, manager, academic technologies, Undergraduate Medical Education, CSM. "OSCE stations require a room, a preceptor, an actor, and a studentto have any additional practice opportunities at an almost zero cost is remarkable." The clinical scenarios also include diagnostic decision-making and sharing bad news. "Developing empathy is a critical skill for health professionals and the real world can be intimidating," says Guo. "The platform offers a safe environment so someone can practice and fumble and learn from their mistakes so they can be more confident when they do see a real patient." Inspired by the new app's usefulness, Guo created another platform to practice for interviews. He plans to roll out a more refined version to help Canadian medical students prepare for residency matching. More information: OSCE-GPT is available here. 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 Two of the best predictors of life-long health and well-being are early childhood self-control skills and healthy eating habits. A new program that teaches parents how to cook with their 2-year-olds is helping toddlers excel on both fronts. Doing things like stirring ingredients together without spilling and singing a song while something is in the microwave helps toddlers learn multiple important self-control skills, like paying attention, controlling their bodies, waiting patiently, and cooperating with their parents. Toddlers also get excited about being involved in the "grown-up" activity and are more likely to try the new foods they help make. Previous research has shown that self-control in preschool predicts adult outcomes like higher incomes and fewer health problems. Similarly, healthy eating habits in preschool predict how often adults eat their fruits and vegetables. The Recipe 4 Success program was co-developed and rigorously tested by a team of researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and The Pennsylvania State University and staff members of home visiting programs in seven cities, towns, and rural areas across Wisconsin and Pennsylvania. The results of the second randomized controlled trial of Recipe 4 Success have just been published in the journal Child Development. "It's encouraging that parents and toddlers are so excited about cooking healthy foods together. Parents easily learn new strategies that turn daily routines, like making lunch, into a form of quality time with their toddlers that is both educational and fun," said lead author, Robert Nix, professor of human development and family studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. "We were happy to see that parents could use what they learned in the special cooking lessons to support their toddlers' development in other activities, like playing with blocks." Recipe 4 Success was delivered as part of the Early Head Start home visiting program, one of several evidence-based home visiting programs designed for young families living in poverty and funded by the federal government. Home visiting programs partner with parents to promote the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development of infants and toddlers, so they are prepared to succeed in school. "Home visits are such a great way to ensure all children have the opportunity to thrive. My colleagues and I were so proud to collaborate with the dedicated home visitors who work hard every day to best serve the families in their programs. Together, we made home visits even better than they already were," continued Nix. "Parents often participate in home visits because they want their children to be well-behaved and do well in school, which both depend on self-control skills. When Recipe 4 Success lessons were incorporated into home visits, toddlers developed better self-control skills and were willing to eat more nutritious foods, which may reduce common meal-time struggles and help children stay healthy and strong. Our next goal is to give Recipe 4 Success to as many home visiting programs as possible so even more families can benefit," Nix added. Families were recruited through organizations providing Early Head Start home visiting services. To be eligible, families had to be able to complete assessments in English and have a toddler. The study included 242 parents and their toddlers. Thirty-seven percent of families were white, 25% were Black, 19% were Latino, 17% were multiracial, 2% were Asian American, and less than 1% were Native American. Ninety-one percent of caregivers were mothers, 5% were fathers, and 4% were other relatives. Forty-seven percent of parents were single or did not live with a partner. Sixty-five percent had a high school degree or less; 60% did not work outside the home; 20% had a part-time job; and 20% had a full-time job. Sixty-nine percent of families lived below the federal poverty threshold, and an additional 25% of families lived below 200% of that threshold; median family income was $1,555 per month. Fifty-one percent of toddlers were girls and 49% were boys. At the beginning of the study, toddlers were on average 2.5 years old. Participating families were randomly assigned to receive the Recipe 4 Success preventive intervention across 12 weeks, delivered by their regular Early Head Start home visitors during their regularly scheduled home visits, or continue to receive their usual practice Early Head Start home visits. Families who participated in Recipe 4 Success did not receive extra home visits or extra-long home visits. The program included sequenced and highly structured food preparation lessons, which provided countless opportunities for parents to practice sensitive scaffolding of children's self-control skills and learn responsive food parenting practices. The lessons also provided many opportunities for toddlers to practice self-control and be exposed to new healthy foods. Each lesson required about 45 minutes of a typical 90-minute home visit. The goal was to help parents see how routine daily activities they had to do anyway, like cooking, could become a way to spend high-quality special time with their toddlers that also taught critically important new skills. After families completed the cooking lessons, they were tested to see whether they could apply the skills they had learned to other situations, such as building a block tower or completing a puzzle. The research found that parents who participated in the Recipe 4 Success program, compared to parents who continued with regular home visits, were more engaged and responsive and provided better support for their toddlers' learning of new skills, as demonstrated in video-recorded parent-child interaction tasks. They also were more effective in the way they introduced their toddlers to novel healthy foods. Moreover, their toddlers had better self-control skills, greater attention spans, and were more compliant, as demonstrated in waiting tasks, observer ratings, and parent reports. They also were more likely to continue helping to make and eat healthy foods at home, as demonstrated by food and activity diaries, collected over three days. The authors acknowledge some limitations to the study. Although the trial included many Latino families, it had to exclude some Latino families that only spoke Spanish due to important differences in their experiences with the study, such as housing instability among more marginalized communities. Although this study demonstrated important intervention effects of Recipe 4 Success, it could not document exactly what aspects of the program accounted for parent and toddler change. For example, it might have been both the new lessons themselves and having parents be so much more involved in the focal activities that contributed to program effects. The independent contributions of those different components is the topic of another study, currently under review. Recipe 4 Success lessons are a cost-effective way to boost the impact of home visits. This study demonstrates how carefully designed and tested curricula can help maximize the effectiveness of human services. More information: Promoting toddlers' self-regulation and healthy eating habits among families living in poverty: A randomized controlled trial of Recipe 4 Success, Child Development (2023). DOI: 10.1111/cdev.14006 Journal information: Child Development A fading black-and-white photograph shows a woman leaning on a railing, an expanse of water behind her. She holds a stylish coat shut, as though it was cold, but she smiles toward the camera, as if on vacation. Neatly embroidered text, sewn right into the picture, reads: She took as much pride in making the perfect martini as someone might have in painting a beautiful landscape. If you go Jane Waggoner Deschners exhibition, Remember Me, is on view through Oct. 26 at the University of Montana Gallery of Visual Arts, located on the first floor of the Social Sciences Building. It shares a frame with other pictures like it. In another, a man in a three-piece suit, hands in pockets, holds court in a chamber of some kind, in front of other men in suits. The text, meanwhile, turns the formality into a punchline: He was a bottomless wealth of useless information. Jane Waggoner Deschner, a Billings artist, works in a specific and unusual medium thats easy to understand on sight: found photographs, specifically vintage portraits, with quotations stitched on them. Sometimes I find a sentence, and then I look for a face that matches, she said in a phone interview. Or sometimes I just find a great face, and then find a sentence that matches it. So that's my part. I'm in the middle of all this. Her latest work is an ambitious one. In Remember Me, hundreds of the photos populate the walls, in themed groupings, of the Gallery of Visual Arts at the University of Montana. The photographs and the text are unrelated, and Deschner doesnt know anyone in either. Placed together, they form a sketch of a possible person, now gone. You know that each part refers to a real human, but this imaginary one in your mind stirs thoughts of how youll be remembered, or how youd want someone close to you to be recalled after they die. Deschner included a quote from Susan Sontag on the gallery wall that encourages such thoughts: Photographs, which cannot themselves explain anything, are inexhaustible invitations to deduction, speculation and fantasy. The show occupies both exhibition spaces of the GVA in University of Montanas Social Sciences Building, which isnt often reserved for a single solo exhibition. The show originated in the Yellowstone Art Museum last year, following many delays including the pandemic. Its traveling the state through MAGDA, the Montana Art Gallery Directors Association, a nonprofit that helps share costs for art exhibitions and bring them to communities around the state, including small, rural ones. While it would be easy to spend an hour and still not have time to read each photograph, what you see in the GVA is only about 40% of the work that Deschner created in the project. Cathryn Mallory, the director of the GVA and a UM art professor, said the show was selected because of its universal appeal. We all die, we all want to be remembered, we all have loved ones, she said. "Thematically, its something that all viewers, young and old, can relate to." For older audiences, it might speak to their generation. Shes heard from students that it stirs thoughts of their grandparents or great-grandparents. Source materials Deschner began the project in 2015, when the national mood ahead of the presidential election was divisive. Shes worked with found photographs since 2001, when she was in graduate school. Shes been embroidering text on them for years, too, but preferred quotes from well-known figures. This time, she decided to use lines from obituaries for everyday people. I thought this would be a way to show that we're more alike than we are different, she said. She set 2015 as the cutoff year at the projects beginning. Her sources include the Billings Gazette and farther-flung places. She traveled to Georgia for an artist residency and signed up for a funeral homes newsletter. She also went to Legacy.com and set up alerts for keywords, such as bowling or the themes that populate the show: mothers, veterans, regrets. Perhaps the quirkiest is the long rows dedicated to collections stamps, nutcrackers, costumes and wigs, turtles and most quizzically, skunks. These contemporary obituaries are crafted by family members or loved ones. Those are written by people who loved them and cared about them and wanted to present the best side, she said. While the polarization of politics didnt mend during the projects long gestation period, and unforeseen crises emerged, her idea remained relevant. Some are cryptic by design, alluding to a favorite yarn that youll never hear. Take a yellowing portrait of a young man with slicked back hair and a thin mustache. The four lines of text begin in a familiar place and become idiosyncratic as it continues: He would have/loved to own/or be owned/by a wolf. In general, shes not interested in their jobs. Shes hunting for an insight, a little bit, into somebodys character or their quirks, she said. Maybe it makes you like or understand this person in a way, she said. She doesnt alter them in any way, nor does she include any names of people or places. Her sources for photographs have evolved over the years. There are found-photograph collectors and dealers but shes not competing with them, really. They want the ones that are arty or unique or something special about them, and then I want all the rest, the more mundane ones, she said. A dealer in New York would fill a flat-rate box and mail them to her at a bargain price. One section is dedicated to wedding photos, in which shes turned the brides and grooms into black silhouettes. Baby photos also arent hard to come by. One of the more humorous word-picture combos is a picture of an infant, rendered with the soft colors of an older generation of photography. The text reads, He was able to fulfill his dream of owning a microbrewery." She found a connection in Indiana: a couple who purchased a diner. Upstairs was once home to a photographers studio. After he died, his widow left thousands of portraits. He would typically shoot a variety of moods and styles and proof them, and then the customer would buy their favorite. The show includes installations, too: living room-like vignettes with chairs and tables, all painted flat black. Wall clocks, living room settings, an entire corner with globes and photographs collaged into memorial shirts dedicated to veterans. Embroidered doilies, culled from thrift stores, rest on pedestals. Getting sentimental All of these old photographs and memorabilia naturally bring up the notion of nostalgia. That typically bears negative connotations when talking about art or music. It implies that work is retreating to the safety of cliches, or blatantly ignores the present in favor of a simplified version of the past. While Deschners treatment of her subjects, seen and unseen, is sentimental, there are slim odds that these photographs and obituary text have a direct line to your life. The fashions and some of the quotes might evoke a bygone era, but its not necessarily one a viewer will have lived through. The catalog includes an essay by Clay Routledge, a Ph.D. psychologist who specializes in nostalgia. (He has a forthcoming book, Past Forward: How Nostalgia Can Help You Live a More Meaningful Life.) In his essay, Nostalgia: A Redemption Story, Routledge discusses the terms origins with a Swiss psychologist describing soldiers longing for home away at war in 1688. He notes that nostalgia is a form of social memory, involving other people, often triggered by negative psychological states. (N)ostalgic memories tend to follow a redemptive sequence in which feelings such as sadness and loss are overwhelmed by pleasant and even energizing feelings such as happiness, love, gratitude, and hope, he writes. Mallory said the show isnt free of sentiment or nostalgia, but its not at all saccharine or sweet. Seeing objects that dead people collected might stir thoughts of your own. Or how they might end up in thrift stores. It can stir thoughts of mortality as well, as you see the overwhelming number of images. All the things I hold precious, objects as well as memories, where will they end up someday? Mallory said. And will anybody care about them? Liz and Bill Zader meet with the Five Valleys Pachyderm Club, a grassroots Republican group, on Fridays at Jakers Bar and Grill. The couple supports conservative candidates for Missoulas City Council and believes the homelessness problem in Missoula could be solved by requiring service recipients to fulfill work requirements. Chey Engstrom, meanwhile, belongs to the progressive Missoula Tenants Union. He organizes with LGBTQ+ members of the community, with a special focus on supporting his unhoused neighbors. But on one issue, Engstrom and the Zaders agree: The city of Missoula isnt engaging its citizens effectively. What happens? said Liz, who frequently reaches out to the city through public comment. Nothing. You never hear anything back. The city, Engstrom agreed, only wants a certain form of engagement. There seems to be growing unrest in the community over the citys outreach initiatives, as Missoulians of different ages, neighborhoods and political beliefs voice issues with their ability to connect to city officials. Accessibility Jana Richter, for example, works with the Forward Montana advocacy group that put on a well-attended mayoral debate leading up to the Sept. 12 primary. Richter, who uses they/them pronouns, feels particularly passionate about getting young people involved in civic life. They feel the citys current model fails to reach that demographic. Richter said theyd like to see more casual opportunities to connect with city leaders, as well as more incentives to attend city events, like offering a meal and/or child care. They also want discussions to be tailored to a more accessible approach by doing away with complicated jargon and clunky acronyms. There are really accessible ways, they said, to break down these things. Engstrom, too, would like to see the city change some of its practices to better incorporate young people. In his experience, most young people are working eight hours a day, if not more, making it hard to attend meetings and other events during the workday. Theres an inaccessibility there, he said, of like, things arent happening during the times they can go. Engstrom and Richter both agreed the onus should be on the government to reach out to citizens, not the other way around. They think they are (accessible), said Engstrom. But that accessibility only reaches certain segments of Missoula, in his experience. The citizens that need it most On the other end of the spectrum, the Zaders said they feel older people arent being adequately addressed by the citys outreach either. As they door-knock for Republican candidates in Missoula, they said theyve heard from droves of seniors who cant access technology that the city relies on. The Engage Missoula website underlies much of the citys engagement efforts, but the Zaders said its hard to navigate and completely inaccessible to a chunk of older Missoulians. Hybrid meetings, emailed public comments and other technological outreach tools further exacerbate the issue, said Liz. That is a lack of engagement on the citys side, she said, referring to fixed-income earners. Theyre not reaching the citizens that need it most because theyre affected most. She said she thinks communications would improve if the city had a spokesperson who served as a point of entry into city matters. Money for that position could come out of Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion funding, she suggested. In Ward 6, near the location of the Johnson Street Community Center, frustrations around engagement have threatened to boil over for months. Constituents in that area, which includes the lower-income Franklin-to-the-Fort neighborhood, consistently express a feeling of being cut off and taken advantage of by wealthier parts of Missoula. Agnes Sigrist is a homeowner in Ward 6 who said shed consider moving if she werent tied to a mortgage and a job just 1.3 miles from her residence. I shouldnt feel pressure to move, she said. But the lack of response to Ward 6 residents makes her feel disconnected from the city and its decision-making. Sigrist said her ward representative, Libertarian Sandra Vasecka, readily answers her questions and concerns. But Sigrist doesnt feel like her input goes much further. Im paying the taxes, she said, yet she feels as though she doesnt receive adequate representation. Meet them where they are The city, for its part, recognizes a disconnect between the institution and its constituents. Ginny Merriam is a longtime communications professional who represents the city, and she said shes noticed the traditional forms of outreach no longer have the same impact. We think that were so thorough, said Merriam, referencing about 25 different methods the city uses to reach out to various groups. Despite these efforts, she said, communication from the city goes out to the public, but it isnt a two-way street. Since the pandemic, in particular, shes noticed a drop-off in city engagement and meeting attendance. Over the past year, she and her communications team redoubled efforts to connect with citizens by implementing new programs like City Chats in the Parks. The key to this new approach, Merriam said, is meeting residents where they are physically. The whole communications team, she said, is turning to more of an engagement model. Members of the team like Maci MacPherson, who performs communications for the Missoula Redevelopment Agency, are pioneering new ideas to reach Missoulians better. Its been a really fun experiment, she said, for the city. MacPherson had the idea for City Chats in the Parks, which functions by going into neighborhood parks so neighbors dont have to come downtown to get in touch with community leaders. The new initiative came out of contributions from Kalina Pritchard with the Office of Neighborhoods, as well as Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion principles. City Chats took a deliberate approach, with Pritchards help, to reach neighborhoods that didnt feel traditionally represented. Merriam said turnout of about 30 people per event was a good showing for the summer-long series. The program also aimed to be informal, low barrier, friendly and comfortable, to counter the sentiment that official meetings are off-putting to some public commenters. But in spite of new ideas like this one, MacPherson said the city is still working on determining the effectiveness of its new outreach strategy. Each communications professional, she said, keeps an individual spreadsheet of the people theyve talked to and the responses theyve received. In the winter, the team wants to synthesize that information and work on addressing the topics that respondents brought up. I feel, said MacPherson, like Ive learned a lot about needs and interests from going out and talking to folks. Ashley Brittner-Wells is another city communications employee whose job specifically focuses on generating engagement around code reform. She was hired in February 2022, although Vasecka in Ward 6 launched an effort to cut that position during the budget discussion for Fiscal Year 2024. Vasecka ultimately withdrew her amendment targeting Brittner-Wells role. Brittner-Wells said her philosophy centers on outreach that takes place continuously, early and often. Collaborative education, awareness of key issues and shared experiences ground her engagement work, she said. It all boils down to trust and relationship-building. To those ends, she has hosted small group meetings with community members she believes arent typically engaged. The city has also partnered with the nonprofit Common Good, which includes thousands of members with a robust engagement strategy. Brittner-Wells said the efforts so far have reached over 600 people: Were casting as wide a net as we can. But like her colleague MacPherson, she was uncertain about measuring engagement. Its difficult to measure relationships, she said, and building trust with folks. Build trust But some experts have sought to measure exactly that. The Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative offers free resources to cities to improve their engagement models. These include a guide, a workbook, a historical analysis tool and other features freely available to governments around the world. Its suggestions include the use of democratic principles like inclusion, respect and inequality as underpinnings for engagement work. It also advises building trust through promot(ing) conversations internally with staff to discuss the citys history and how city services, programs, or staff may still be perceived (accurately or inaccurately) as hostile or harmful to historically marginalized groups. The Bloomberg Harvard partnership points to successful examples of engagement efforts from across the globe, like Civic Bridge in San Francisco, a public-private partnership that galvanizes volunteers to take up their own city projects in collaboration with staff. Between 2015 and 2022, the guide reported, 861 volunteers from 28 partner organizations had worked more than 52,000 hours on 80 projects across 34 city departments, amounting to an estimated $7.85 million in pro bono work. Another example came from Flint, Michigan, where the city launched an app and website in 2017 aimed at mitigating blight in the area. The collaborative effort involved the county land bank and four local grant-making organizations. It helped incorporate people who hadnt previously been a part of civic engagement. Valuing residents opinions and expertise on conditions and land use in their neighborhoods helped create trust between residents and decision makers, read the guide. Resident-generated information formed the basis for a more equitable and inclusive planning process. Finally, in Jackson, Mississippi, an engagement group from outside the city created avenues to get involved in decision-making. The independent Jackson Peoples Assembly drummed up support from the community and promoted leadership in the city, eventually placing a candidate in a city council seat and then the mayors office. As much as possible, stated the guide, the JPA sought to work with rather than in opposition to city government, but at times Assembly leaders organized civic action to protest policy decisions that did not align with its goals, vision, and priorities. Hollie Russon Gilman, the lead author of the guide, said its suggestions create a framework that can be tailored to each individual municipality. We try to marry engagement goals with democratic principles to reach those desired outcomes, said Russon Gilman. Create a path that really works for you and your community. NASHVILLE, Tenn. For months, Carlton Clemons endured crippling pain from a rotting wisdom tooth. He couldnt sleep, barely ate and relied on painkillers to get by. The 67-year-old from Nashville, Tennessee, could not afford to see a dentist on the $1,300-a-month his family gets in Social Security and disability payments. So he waited for the state to roll out a program this year that offers dental care to the more than 650,000 Medicaid recipients like him who are 21 and older. Tennessee is spending about $75 million annually on the program. Man, I thought I had made it to heaven because the pain was over, he said after the tooth was pulled in July at the Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry. When they did pull it out, I was so happy. I was so glad. Everything just changed after that. His wife, Cindy, who also is on Medicaid, has had her teeth pulled at the clinic. Medicaid, the federal and state health insurance program for the poor, requires states to provide dental coverage for children but not adults. But with a growing recognition of the economic and health costs of poor dental health and an influx of federal pandemic dollars, six states began or expanded their Medicaid programs this year to provide coverage for adults. Access remains difficult in many of those states with some dentists refusing to treat Medicaid patients. Even those who want to expand their practice are finding themselves caught up in red tape. Dr. Victor Wu, the chief medical officer for Tennessees Medicaid program, said he was pleased with the rollout of Medicaid dental benefits that started in January, but he acknowledges the state needs to build out its network and increase the participation rate among dentists. While dental care often is seen as routine, the poor often go without any care for years or even decades. Doing so has significant costs, both to taxpayers and to those who cannot afford treatment. One study from Texas A&M University found that treatment for preventable dental conditions represents up to 2.5% of emergency room visits, at a cost of $2 billion a year. An additional $45 billion is lost year in productivity in the United States annually from untreated oral disease, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. You put off care and you get sicker and then it becomes a crisis where youre missing work or you end up going to the emergency department where you get a big bill and you dont get the tooth actually taken care of, said Dr. Rhonda Switzer-Nadasdi, the chief executive officer of Interfaith Dental Clinic which has offices in Nashville and Murfreesboro, Tennessee. You need good teeth to have good employment, Switzer-Nadasdi said. All states provide some Medicaid dental benefits for adults, but some limit it to only specific segments of the population, like pregnant women or those who have intellectual disabilities, or cover only emergency care, according to CareQuest Institute for Oral Health, a nonprofit that advocates for expanded dental care. Hawaii, Tennessee, Kentucky, Michigan, Maryland and New Hampshire were the latest to begin or expand their dental coverage; they did so this year. In New Hampshire, the state is spending $33.4 million over 12 months to provide dental care to its 88,000 Medicaid recipients. There is an increasing understanding that oral health is inseparable from health care, said New Hampshire Democratic Rep. Joe Schapiro, who was the prime sponsor of the expanded dental benefits bill. The amount of money spent on other health care problems that are related to oral health and the amount of money spent on emergency care when people cant get any kind of preventive or restorative care is not only unfortunate for those peoples health but cost a tremendous amount of money. In Kentucky, Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear pressed ahead with emergency regulations ensuring that about 900,000 Kentuckians would continue having access to dental care after the Republican-led legislature rejected his proposal. We are focused on removing roadblocks that prevent people from getting back into the workforce, and this program does just that, he said. Virginia expanded its Medicaid program in 2021, budgeting $282 million for the 2022 and 2023 fiscal years to cover dental procedures for more than a million recipients. Last year, Kansas gave dental access to nearly 137,000 Medicaid recipients at a cost of $3.5 million in 2022 and $1.2 million in 2023. While advocates are welcoming these changes, Texas, Alabama, Mississippi, Utah and Louisiana still only offer limited benefits. Even as states add dental coverage, millions of beneficiaries are being culled from the Medicaid program nationwide as part of a review of eligibility, something states were prohibited from doing during the pandemic. There are also plenty of hiccups in states that have expanded care. Among the biggest is that too few dentists, especially in rural areas, are taking Medicaid patients, resulting in long waiting times and hours-long drives in search of care. Only about 15% of dentist take Medicaid in New Hampshire, 24% in Tennessee and 27% in Virginia. A 29-year-old man from Greeley, Colorado, is facing felony charges of assault with a weapon, criminal endangerment and tampering with evidence following a fight outside of an Augusta bar. According to charging documents filed Monday, Brendan David Caulder got into a physical altercation with a woman outside of the Buckhorn Bar, 120 Main St. in Augusta. Witnesses and victims told Lewis and Clark County sheriff's deputies the woman confronted Caulder in the parking lot regarding Caulder throwing a drink and cursing at a friend of hers. The woman told deputies Caulder knocked a drink out of her hand, bumped her with his shoulder and tried to strike her with a closed fist, at which point some men came out of the bar to intervene and the woman left to call 911. One man told deputies Caulder began attacking him after he intervened, striking him in the jaw and the abdomen several times. After Caulder fled the scene, the man said he noticed holes in his shirt and blood. He said Caulder stabbed him. The man was later seen at a medical clinic and received 18 stitches to close the wounds, authorities said. Witnesses said after the fight, Caulder got into his vehicle and drove away, almost striking the male victim and striking the female victim, who suffered a fractured right hand, according to court documents. Deputies stated in a sworn affidavit that Caulder was eventually located, "attempting to hide at his residence." Deputies said Caulder told them he "tossed" the knife, but it was later recovered "under a bed without a mattress in an unoccupied separate living residence near where the Defendant resided." The arresting deputy's affidavit states an investigation is ongoing. Caulder was arrested and booked into the Lewis and Clark County Detention Center. He faces single felony charges of assault with a weapon, tampering with physical evidence and criminal endangerment as well as a misdemeanor charge of assault, authorities said. All charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty. The apparently well-intentioned proposal to help the diminishing population of Arctic grayling in the Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge east of Lima stirred controversy from the beginning. Earlier this month, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it was withdrawing a proposal to install a pipeline from Shambow Pond to Upper Red Rock Lake, where grayling spend the winter in a comparatively shallow lake. The controversy focused in large part on objections that the pipeline project, designed to augment dissolved oxygen in the lake, would have required activities incompatible within a federally designated wilderness area. Additional objections to the project as proposed by the Fish and Wildlife Service suggested other conservation methods could help the grayling population survive. The agency might go back to the drawing board to seek ways to boost the grayling population but it wont propose another pipeline as the fix. The Fish and Wildlife Service will focus on alternative conservation methods for Arctic grayling and continued stewardship of the Red Rock Lakes Wilderness under the Wilderness Act in collaboration with interested parties, the service announced. The Fish and Wildlife Service first announced the grayling proposal in spring and after soliciting public comment about varied interventions said in June it would proceed with the pipeline project. A lawsuit that followed on June 26 sought to block the project and a federal judge later granted the injunction sought by the plaintiffs. They included Wilderness Watch, Alliance for the Wild Rockies, Gallatin Wildlife Association and the Yellowstone to Uintas Connection. But some variation of the project also attracted support from individuals and organizations, with the latter including Montana Trout Unlimited, the Montana Wildlife Federation, Ruby Valley Conservation District, the Big Hole River Foundation, the Greater Yellowstone Coalition and the Big Hole Watershed Committee. The consensus seemed to be that the dwindling population of Arctic grayling in the Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge justified intervention even in a wilderness area. Comments from the Big Hole Watershed Committee observed, Given the potential benefits of the project, the designated Wilderness land use of the site should not prevent this restoration project from proceeding. The Upper Red Rock Lake is a shallow and eutrophic lake that is rich in nutrients supporting plant life that decomposes in winter. The lake is covered for months each winter in ice and snow and that combination reduces dissolved oxygen, leaving the Arctic grayling vulnerable to winterkill. The grayling in the Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge are adfluvial, or lake dwelling, as opposed to the river dwelling, or fluvial, grayling that survive in the Big Hole River as the last such population in the Lower 48. The Fish and Wildlife Service has abandoned the Shambow Pond pipeline. It said any other action designed to benefit the grayling will be subject to additional analyses, with the appropriate public review and input. Members of the Col. Alexander Erwin chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution invite the community to honor local Revolutionary War patriots with a special event one could describe as a milestone. The Morganton-based SAR chapter will hold a dedication ceremony at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct 1, on the Morganton greenway near the site of the former Judges Riverside BBQ for a stone monument they placed at the spot where patriot militia crossed the Catawba River on Oct. 1, 1780, on the way to the famous Battle of Kings Mountain. During the battle, American soldiers defeated British forces, turning the tide of the war in Americas favor. The monument has been named The Crossing and features a large bronze plaque that provides information about the historic event. The group had the monument installed last fall, but members were unable to hold a dedication ceremony at that time due to inclement weather. Robert Patton, former Morganton SAR chapter president, described the history of the march and battle in which Morganton played a key role. In the early fall of 1780, British Provincial, Loyalist and Tory forces under the command of Maj. Patrick Ferguson made headway into western North Carolina in an effort to subdue patriot forces, Patton said. On Sept. 10, 1780, while at Gilbert Town (present-day Rutherfordton), Ferguson ordered a proclamation be posted across the backcountry stating his intention to cross the mountains, hang the leaders and lay waste the country with fire and sword. To confront the British invasion and attempt to neutralize the threat Fergusons forces posed, patriot militias from Washington County, Virginia, and Washington and Sullivan Counties in North Carolina (now located in Tennessee) rendezvoused at Sycamore Shoals of the Watauga. They were joined by patriot militias from Burke and Rutherford counties who had retreated across the mountains following the skirmish at Cane Creek along the Burke/Rutherford line Sept. 12, 1780. Together, these militias marched across the mountains and were met Sept. 30, 1780, at Quaker Meadows plantation in Morganton by patriot militias from Wilkes and Surry counties. The following morning, Oct. 1, 1780, approximately 1,390 men crossed the Catawba River at Greenlee Ford and headed south. The patriot militias, gaining strength as they marched, caught up with Patrick Ferguson at Kings Mountain Oct. 7, 1780. During the ensuing battle, Ferguson was killed, and his entire command were either killed or captured. He said the monument project was inspired by a Vietnam veteran from Charlotte named John Allen. Five years ago, John Allen sent a letter to (former Morganton SAR chapter president) William Brown and said, I challenge the Col. Alexander Erwin chapter to erect a memorial to the men that were killed at the Battle of Kings Mountain and were Overmountain Men, Patton said. He said, I will donate $1,000 to the beginning of doing that. They handed that over to me and said, This sounds like a really good and important project, so I called John and we talked a little bit, and I got excited trying to figure out how to do this. Several SAR chapter members made donations and held fundraisers to support the project, according to a previous News Herald article. The chapter also received grants from the state and national SAR organizations to fund the monument. The main 5-ton stone for the monument, as well as several smaller stones, were obtained from Quality Stone in Marion. Patton said the opening of the dedication ceremony will feature a special performance by bagpiper Drew Bradshaw, who has composed an original composition called The Crossing just for the event. Steve McKee of the state SAR color guard will lead a procession of flags, including the American flag, North Carolina flag and several Revolutionary War-era flags. Ed Phillips, CEO of the Burke County Tourism Development Authority, will serve as master of ceremonies and introduce the speakers for the event, including: Robert Patton, former SAR chapter president Morganton Mayor Ronnie Thompson Diana Bramble, superintendent of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail and the Kings Mountain and Cowpens National Military Battlefields William Brown, former SAR chapter president Linda Lindsey, president of the Historic Burke Foundation Pat Wells, regent of the Quaker Meadows chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution Kevin Hancock, current SAR chapter president David Doan, president of the Overmountain Victory Trail Association Doan is the keynote speaker and will share the history of the famous river crossing. Members of the OVTA reenacting the march are expected to attend the event and fire a ceremonial volley with their muskets to end the program. Patton encouraged people to come out to honor the memory of those who fought for Americas freedom, especially those who never made it home. Its just a remarkable event that were able to celebrate the lives these men gave at the Battle of Kings Mountain, Patton said. Following the battle, the militias crossed back over the Catawba River at Greenlee Ford. Of the 1,390 Overmountain Men who crossed over, 33 did not cross back. They were killed or died of their wounds within a day or two. It is those men who gave their lives for the blessings of liberty we enjoy today that are memorialized on The Crossing memorial. Butte was the third of 10 Montana cities on the distribution tour and just before 4 p.m. Tuesday right on time the Producer Partnership semi pulled up to the Butte Emergency Food Bank. Matt Pierson backed the truck to the loading dock, hopped out of the cab, grabbed a pallet jack and unloaded 60 boxes of frozen pork sausage, each with 40 pounds of meat wrapped in 1-pound rolls. Thats 2,400 pounds of free sausage for the needy in Butte. The Producer Partnership was founded in 2020 to help folks during the COVID pandemic, and the simple idea of donating local protein resulted in the first federally inspected, nonprofit owned and operated processing facility in the United States. Pierson, its founder and president, began a three-day trek this week to deliver 42,000 pounds of donated USDA-inspected ground pork, breakfast sausage and ground beef to nine food pantries in Montana. He stopped at Family Service Inc. in Billings and the Gallatin Valley Food Bank in Bozeman on Tuesday before hitting Butte. He was going to Helena, Great Falls, Conrad and Browning on Wednesday and to Kalispell, Missoula and Deer Lodge on Thursday. The quality of what we hand out is actually better most of the time than what you could buy at a grocery store, Pierson said. Everything comes into this process. We dont keep any of the good stuff out. Everything goes in and it makes a really high-quality product. Several folks were on hand to greet the truck and accept the donation, including Butte Food Bank Director Lorriane Hamry and Bill McGladdery with the Town Pump Foundation, which has given millions of dollars to food banks in Montana. Both were grateful for Tuesdays donation. For Butte, this means the food bank is going to be able to reach out to more of our local citizens with sausage and breakfast sausage, and it also allows them to stretch their budget for food purchases, McGladdery said. Were finding, not only here in Butte but all across the state, the needs of the food banks are just really being taxed, he said. Weve got more people coming in their prices are going up just like it is for us who go to the supermarket, so this (donation) is just a great gift to this community. The Producer Partnership works with livestock producers across the state by processing donated livestock into quality protein and distributing it to food banks. We are obviously COVID born, Pierson said. In April 2020, we could really see the effect of what was happening on all the communities around Livingston, where were from, so we decided to do something about it. So we got a few cows together and got them processed and put them into the food bank, he said. The local community foundation heard what we were doing so they gave us some money to pay for it, and neighbors just started dropping cows off and it took off on its own. It is now a 501(c)3 nonprofit operation with a federally inspected processing facility about 12 miles outside of Livingston, and partners with the Montana Food Bank Network to deliver the beef and pork. The network distributes food to 360 partners that include local food banks, pantries, schools, senior centers and shelters. Brent Weisgram, vice president and chief operating officer of the Food Bank Network, said the Producer Partnership has accomplished amazing things in just three years. Producer Partnership has eliminated almost every possible obstacle and simplified the process to allow everyone who wants to get involved in the opportunity to contribute, including ranchers, donors and volunteers, Weisgram said. That explains why they have been able to provide Montana Food Bank Network with over 150,000 pounds of locally donated beef and pork for distribution statewide to help our local seniors, families and children. Hamry, the Butte food bank director, said needs are as pressing as ever so the donation was a blessing. Everyone says our shelves are so empty right now compared to usual, she said. Of course, were in between our two big drives. We dont have our big food drive until December 2nd so we are relying on donations and we are going to different events and have them (people) bring canned goods. For more information on the Producer Partnership and Food Bank Network visit www.producerpartnership.com and mfbn.org. A 52-year-old woman admitted Wednesday that she embezzled $80,141 from Fine Fabric Care in Butte, where she was employed as an office manager before moving to Texas. Diana Michelle Cryer pleaded guilty to felony theft by common scheme, which in this case is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $50,000. District Judge Robert Whelan said he would sentence her at a later date. Cryer made the plea via video Wednesday while her public defender, Kaylee Hafer, appeared in court. Hafer requested the arrangement, saying Crier was indigent in Texas and did not have the resources to travel to Montana for the hearing. Hafer acknowledged that Crier would have to appear in person for sentencing. According to prosecutors, Cryer was employed at Fine Fabric Care, a carpet, furniture and interior cleaning and restoration business, from September 2020 through September 2021, when she moved to Weatherford, Texas. She was the sole office manager part of that time. A new bookkeeper noticed discrepancies, and the owners contacted Butte police. They found checks written to Cryers creditors that had been forged and said she used company credit and debit cards and electronic transfers for personal purposes. A review found many unauthorized withdrawals from the business account, made not only during the time of Cryers employment as office manager, but also after she moved to Texas, a charging affidavit says. It says she forged an owners signature on 65 checks. Police talked to Cryer by phone on Aug. 22, 2022, and she denied any wrongdoing at first. She confessed later in the interview, prosecutors said, but said she didnt realize how much she had taken. She denied having a gambling problem and stated that she was a single grandmother taking care of her grandchild on her own, they said. Weatherford is a city of about 30,000 people located 25 miles west of Fort Worth. By Murray State Public Relations | Sep 28, 2023 MURRAY, Ky. The latest Murray State University Racer Report includes student, faculty, staff and alumni accomplishments, announcements, upcoming campus events and more for the week of September 25- 29. ** Murray State University will welcome students and their families to campus Sept. 29, Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 for Family Weekend 2023, an annual tradition that encourages students to share their college experience with their loved ones. Murray State University will welcome students and their families to campus Sept. 29, Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 for Family Weekend 2023, an annual tradition that encourages students to share their college experience with their loved ones. Throughout the weekend, the University will host a variety of fun events and activities for students and their families, including the Mr. MSU Pageant, Racer 5k, Fall Fanfare and more. New this year is a photo contest and a Racer Journey around campus where families can visit with faculty and staff and see where their students learn and thrive. Please visit murraystate.edu/familyweekend to view a complete Family Weekend itinerary. ** Murray State University has been re-certified by the National Weather Service in Paducah, Kentucky as StormReady in its continued efforts of hazardous weather preparation and response operations to help serve the campus community. The recognition can be renewed once every four years, and Murray State has been certified since 2010. ** On Sept. 19, Murray State Universitys College of Education and Human Services hosted its 10th annual Scholarship Banquet, honoring this years scholarship recipients and the generous donors who made it possible. On Sept. 19, Murray State Universitys College of Education and Human Services hosted its 10th annual Scholarship Banquet, honoring this years scholarship recipients and the generous donors who made it possible. With over 110 student and donor guests in attendance, the event was a great opportunity for both parties to meet in-person, establishing academic relationships and networking. This college tradition began in 2013, and it is one of our highlight activities of the whole year, said Dr. David Whaley, dean of the College of Education and Human Services. The event celebrated and thanked the colleges faculty and staff who organized this special event while sharing the impact of the colleges departments and degree programs on campus. The College of Education and Human Services makes great strides in inspiring future leaders, advocates and practitioners through authentic, engaging, and student-centered academic programs for successful careers that positively impact communities. With an array of degree programs available at all levels, students are sure to find what inspires them most, whether it be in education, communication disorders, criminal justice, or social work. With support from faculty and staff, they are sure to succeed in all walks of life. To learn more about the College of Education and Human Services at Murray State University, please visit murraystate.edu/coehs. ** Boaz Burnett, a Murray State University student and electromechanical engineering and technology major from Murray, Kentucky, was part of the team which won second place as part of the recent Camp 2030 held in New York City. Boaz Burnett, a Murray State University student and electromechanical engineering and technology major from Murray, Kentucky, was part of the team which won second place in the recent Camp 2030 held in New York City. Camp 2030 brings together young leaders from around the world to come up with innovative solutions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which include zero hunger and no poverty. Their team developed a solution that would use fish waste products to produce fertilizer for farmers in Haiti. Burnett received a $5,000 grant from the Kentucky Commercialization Venture to further his senior design project, which is a parking vision system designed to detect if parking spots are available in a given lot, done through the use of cameras and machine learning. Learn more about Camp 2030 at unite2030.com/camp2030. ** Murray State University student Harlan Thomas of Paducah, Kentucky recently won the Bass Pro Shops Big Bass Bash presented by Berkley. Nearly 600 of college fishings top anglers competed on Kentucky Lake in Henry County and Paris, Tennessee. Murray State University student Harlan Thomas of Paducah, Kentucky recently won the Bass Pro Shops Big Bass Bash presented by Berkley. Nearly 600 of college fishings top anglers competed on Kentucky Lake in Henry County and Paris, Tennessee. Thomas, a member of the top 10-ranked Murray State University bass fishing team, won with a bass weighing 6.31 pounds. The Murray State angler also claimed the Association of Collegiate Anglers logo contingency, Garmin Tournament Rewards and a Yamaha Contingency Bonus. While autumn is known for getting cozy and celebrating holidays, the Muscatine Fire Department often sees it as a time to brush up on fire safety. On Sunday, Oct. 8, from noon to 3 p.m., the Muscatine Fire Department will be kicking off Fire Prevention Week with its 2023 Public Safety Open House, which will be hosted at the Public Safety Building, 312 East 5th Street. As always, the Muscatine Police Department, Muscatine Sheriffs Department and Muscatine County Joint Communications (MUSCOM) Center will also be participating, with each of them providing their own hands-on activities and interactive stations for guests to enjoy as they learn about all the factors of public safety. The event will also include two fire department demonstrations a turkey fryer demonstration and an aerial ladder demonstration as well as an EMS demonstration focused on what happens when there is a Code Blue (cardiac arrest). For this years Fire Prevention Week, it was announced by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) that the theme for 2023 was cooking safety and all the important actions that people should take while in the kitchen in order to prevent burns and house fires. According to NFPA, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the US. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of cooking fires and deaths. Often, these cooking-related home fires peaked during Thanksgiving and Christmas, with ranges or cooktops being involved in 61% of reported home cooking fires, 87% of cooking fire deaths and 78% of cooking fire injuries. Additionally, homes that use electric ranges have a higher risk of cooking fires than those using gas ranges. Year after year, cooking remains the leading cause of home fires by far, accounting for half (49%) of all U.S. home fires, Lorraine Carli, vice president of outreach and advocacy at NFPA said in a public safety. These numbers tell us that there is still much work to do when it comes to better educating the public about ways to stay safe when cooking. Muscatine Fire Chief Jerry Ewers also took a moment to acknowledge the need for education, encouraging residents to embrace this years Fire Prevention Week theme. Cooking safety starts with you, Ewers said. A cooking fire can grow quickly. I have seen many homes damaged and people injured by fires that could easily have been prevented. The Muscatine Fire Department has provided several safety tips related to the weeks them. The primary tip was for residents to always keep a close eye on what they are cooking and use timers to help them keep track of what theyre cooking. Residents should also make sure that pot handles are turned towards the back of the stove. In case a small grease fire were to start, its also advised that residents keep a lid nearby when cooking so that they have a way to smother the flames. Finally, they should have a kid/pet-free zone of at least 3 feet around the stove, grill or anywhere else where hot food or drinks are going to be prepared. Doing this can prevent both trip hazards as well as burns. Close Firefighters rescued a dog from a burning house at 1400 Grant Ave., Waterloo, on Monday, March 20, 2023. Firefighters rescued a dog from a burning house at 1400 Grant Ave., Waterloo, on Monday, March 20, 2023. A Waterloo woman is reunited with her dog after firefighters rescued the pet from a burning house at 1400 Grant Ave., Waterloo, on Monday. A Waterloo woman is reunited with her dog after firefighters rescued the pet from a burning house at 1400 Grant Ave., Waterloo, on Monday, March 20, 2023. Firefighters rescued a dog from a burning house at 1400 Grant Ave., Waterloo, on Monday, March 20, 2023. Photos: Dog rescued from house fire, March 20, 2023 Firefighters rescued a dog from a burning house at 1400 Grant Ave., Waterloo, on Monday, March 20, 2023. Firefighters rescued a dog from a burning house at 1400 Grant Ave., Waterloo, on Monday, March 20, 2023. Firefighters rescued a dog from a burning house at 1400 Grant Ave., Waterloo, on Monday, March 20, 2023. A Waterloo woman is reunited with her dog after firefighters rescued the pet from a burning house at 1400 Grant Ave., Waterloo, on Monday. A Waterloo woman is reunited with her dog after firefighters rescued the pet from a burning house at 1400 Grant Ave., Waterloo, on Monday, March 20, 2023. Firefighters rescued a dog from a burning house at 1400 Grant Ave., Waterloo, on Monday, March 20, 2023. WASHINGTON House Republicans launched a formal impeachment hearing Thursday against President Joe Biden, promising to "provide accountability" as they probe the family finances and lucrative business dealings of his son Hunter and make their case to the public, colleagues and a skeptical Senate. The chairmen of the Oversight, Judiciary, and Ways and Means committees used the opening hearing to review the constitutional and legal questions involved with impeachment. They are trying to show what they claim are links to Biden's son Hunter's overseas businesses, though key witnesses said they do not yet see hard evidence of impeachable offenses. Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., the Oversight chairman, said lawmakers have "a mountain of evidence" that will show that the elder Biden "abused his public office for his family's financial gain." Comer announced he will issue subpoenas for additional banking records from Hunter Biden and the president's brother, James Biden. He said the panel will continue to "follow the money and the evidence to provide accountability." It's a high-stakes opening act for Republicans, taking place just before a potential federal government shutdown, as they begin a process that can lead to the ultimate penalty for a president, dismissal from office for what the Constitution describes as "high crimes and misdemeanors." The White House pushed back with statements throughout the hearing saying nothing can distract from the Republicans' inability to govern as the shutdown loomed. Spokesperson Sharon Yang called the hearing a "baseless stunt" and said, "President Biden will always stay focused on the priorities of the American people not these political games." The more than six-hour hearing came as House Republicans face scattered resistance to an impeachment inquiry from their own ranks. Senate Republicans worry about political ramifications and say Biden's conviction and removal from office is unlikely. As the hearing began, Democrats displayed a screen showing the days, hours and minutes left until the government shuts down as Congress struggles to fund the government before Saturday's deadline. "We're 62 hours away from shutting down the government of the United States of America and Republicans are launching an impeachment drive, based on a long debunked and discredited lie," Rep. Jamie Raskin, the top Democrat on the Oversight panel, said as the day began. Raskin questioned the legitimacy of the hearing since the House did not vote to formally launch the impeachment inquiry. He said Republicans are rehashing five-year-old allegations raised by Donald Trump, Biden's chief rival in 2024, during the former president's 2019 impeachment over Ukraine. "They don't have a shred of evidence against President Biden for an impeachable offense," he said. The hearing Thursday did not feature witnesses with information about the Bidens or Hunter Biden's business. Instead, the panel heard from outside experts in tax law, criminal investigations and constitutional legal theory. Jonathan Turley, a George Washington University law professor and expert in impeachment issues, said he believed the House passed the threshold for an inquiry but that the evidence was not enough for charges. "I do not believe that the current evidence would support articles of impeachment," said Turley, a top Republican-called witness. Democrats, who decry the investigation as a political ploy aimed at hurting Biden and helping Trump as he runs again for president, brought in Michael Gerhardt, a law professor who has also appeared as an expert in previous impeachment proceedings. In detailing the reasons Republicans say they have to impeach Biden, Gerhardt concluded: "If that's what exists, as a basis for this inquiry, it is not sufficient. I say that with all respect." Still, questions remain as Republicans dig into the Biden family finances and the overseas business dealings of Hunter Biden, who has acknowledged being a drug user during much of the time under scrutiny. The president's brother, James, was also involved in some work with Hunter. Republicans have been investigating Hunter Biden for years, since his father was vice president. While there have been questions about the ethics around the family's international business, none of the evidence so far has proven that the president, in his current or previous office, abused his role, accepted bribes or both. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced the impeachment inquiry this month, egged on by Trump and with mounting pressure from his right flank to take action against Biden or risk being ousted from his leadership job. Trump is the only president to be twice impeached, first over accusations he pressured Ukraine to dig up dirt on Biden and later over accusations that he incited the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the Capitol. He was acquitted in both cases by the Senate. The hearing Thursday was expected to be the first of many as House Republicans explore whether they will pursue articles of impeachment against the president. It's unclear if McCarthy has support from his slim Republican majority to impeach Biden. If Biden was impeached, the charges would be sent to the Senate for a trial. TEMPE, Arizona President Joe Biden issued one of his most dire warnings yet that Donald Trump and his allies are a menace to American democracy, declaring Thursday that the former president is more interested in personal power than upholding the nation's core values and suggesting even mainstream Republicans are complicit. "The silence is deafening," he said. During a speech in Arizona celebrating a library to be built honoring his friend and fierce Trump critic, the late Republican Sen. John McCain, Biden repeated one of his key campaign themes, branding the "Make America Great Again" movement as an existential threat to the nation's political system. He's reviving that idea ahead of next year's presidential race after it buoyed Democrats during last fall's midterm election, laying out the threat in especially stark terms: "There's something dangerous happening in America right now." "We should all remember, democracies don't have to die at the end of a rifle," Biden said. "They can die when people are silent, when they fail to stand up or condemn threats to democracy, when people are willing to give away that which is most precious to them because they feel frustrated, disillusioned, tired, alienated." Biden's focus reflects Trump's status as the undisputed front-runner for his party's nomination despite facing four indictments two of them related to his attempts to overturn Biden's 2020 victory. The president's speech was his fourth in a series of addresses on what he sees as threats to democracy, a touchstone for him as he tries to remain in office despite low approval ratings and voters' concerns about his age, 80. Biden is trying to shift the political narrative to a line of attack he used frequently ahead of last year's midterms, when Democrats gained a Senate seat and only narrowly lost the House to the GOP. That could be especially tricky, as Biden faces mounting pressure on Capitol Hill, where House Republicans held the first hearing in their impeachment inquiry and where the prospect of a government shutdown is looming with Trump actively egging it on. On the first anniversary of Jan. 6, 2021, when a mob of Trump supporters staged an insurrection, Biden visited the Capitol and accused Trump of continuing to hold a "dagger" at democracy's throat. Biden closed out the summer that year in the shadow of Philadelphia's Independence Hall, decrying Trumpism as a menace to democratic institutions. In November, as voters cast midterm ballots, Biden again sounded a clarion call to protect democratic institutions. Advisers see Biden's continued focus on democracy as good policy and good politics. Campaign officials pored over the election results from last November, when candidates who denied the 2020 election results did not fare well in competitive races, and point to polling that showed democracy was a highly motivating issue for voters in 2022. "Our task, our sacred task of our time, is to make sure that they change not for the worst but for the better, that democracy survives and thrives, not be smashed by a movement more interested in power than a principle," Biden said. "It's up to us, the American people." Like previous speeches the location for Thursday's address was chosen for effect. It was near Arizona State University, which houses the McCain Institute, named after the late senator, the 2008 Republican presidential nominee who spent his public life denouncing autocrats around the globe. The president said, "there is no question that today's Republican Party is driven and intimidated by MAGA extremists." He pointed to Trump's recent suggestion that Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff who is stepping down from his post Friday, should be executed for allegedly treasonous betrayal of him. "Although I don't believe even a majority of Republicans think that, the silence is deafening," Biden added. He also noted Trump previously called those who served in the American military "suckers and losers." "Was John a sucker?" Biden asked, referring to McCain, who survived long imprisonment in Vietnam. Then he got even more personal: "Was my son Beau, who lived next to a burn pit for a year and came home and died, was he a sucker for volunteering to serve his country?" The late senator's wife, Cindy McCain, said the future library grew out of bipartisan support from Biden, Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs and her predecessor, Republican Gov. Doug Ducey. She called it "a fitting legacy" and recalled how the Bidens introduced her to her future husband decades ago. "I am so grateful for that," Cindy McCain said, her voice cracking. Later Thursday, the Treasury Department announced $83 million in federal funds to help construct the 83,000-square-foot library. Republicans competing with Trump for their party's 2024 presidential nomination largely avoided challenging his election falsehoods, and Biden said Thursday that voters can't let them get away with it. "Democracy is not a partisan issue," he said. "It's an American issue." A number of candidates who backed Trump's election lies and were running for statewide offices with some influence over elections governor, secretary of state, attorney general lost their midterm races in every presidential battleground state. Arizona became politically competitive during Trump's presidency after seven decades of Republican dominance. Biden's victory made the state a hotbed of efforts to overturn or cast doubt on the results. In last year's midterms, voters in the state rejected Republican candidates who repeatedly denied the results of the 2020 election. Photos: Biden impeachment inquiry hearings Justice was finally served to a seven-year-old girl whose grandfather was last year charged before Kigumo Law Court for defiling the minor. The court slammed the 60-year-old grandfather with a 30-year jail term for committing the heinous act at Kambiti village, Muranga South Sub County The plight of the poor girl was brought to the limelight after the family pleaded with the authorities and people of goodwill to assist in seeking treatment for the girl who at the time had developed serious health complications after the ordeal. The family had also indicated that they were living in fear over threats that were being issued by the perpetrator who had been released on bond. Her plight caught the attention of the area Member of Parliament Mary Wamaua who promised to ensure the minor gets treatment while at the same time calling on the Kigumo law court and the state prosecution to expedite the matter and deliver justice for the safety of the minor and her immediate family members. Speaking after the sentencing of Josphat Muli, the perpetrator, Wamaua applauded the criminal justice system for finally serving justice against all odds. To see that justice for the innocent girl has been served against all odds shows a lot of goodwill in the criminal justice system on protecting innocent children within our society who need safe environments to pursue their dreams she observed. Perpetrators of such crimes do not belong in our society but should be in jail A Milimani law court has granted the police a 21-day detention period to conduct investigations on the main suspect in the murder case of Eric Maigo, the Finance Director of Nairobi Hospital. 16-year-old Ann Adhiambo Akinyi, who had been on the run since the previous Thursday, was apprehended in Kibra on Tuesday night by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). The teenager was arraigned before Milimani Principal Magistrate Zainab Abdul, who granted the request to detain the girl for investigative purposes. In a miscellaneous application, the police claimed that the minor is suspected of masterminding the violence that led to the tragic death of Eric Maigo on September 15. The investigating officer, Corporal Patrick Obege, also mentioned that crucial witnesses have not yet provided statements, and DNA samples are pending analysis at the government chemist. The investigating officer is yet to ascertain injuries inflicted when escaping from the scene of crime, forwarding case file to the ODPP for perusal and advise and not limited to the respondents production before a court of law for further directions, reads the application in part. The police will also arrange for a medical assessment of the suspect. The 16-year-old is scheduled to reappear in court on October 18. A 71-year-old woman who was arrested for selling changaa, Cannabis, and suspected narcotic tablets at her residence in Kasarani, Nairobi, has confessed to drug trafficking charges. Susan Wanjiru Kamau was arrested on September 22 following a tip-off to the assistant chief of the area, indicating her involvement in the sale of prohibited substances. The administrator, accompanied by officers from Marurui police station, conducted a raid at the womans residence, leading to her arrest and the seizure of the substances. She was found in possession of 50 liters of changaa, 40 rolls of marijuana, and 30 tablets of a substance believed to be narcotics at her home in Marurui village. The tablets of the unidentified substance were concealed within gumboots at Ms. Kamaus residence, and the police also confiscated one kilogram of Cannabis leaves. Appearing before Senior Principal Magistrate Monica Kivuti of the Makadara Law Courts, Ms. Kamau faced charges related to narcotics trafficking. Additionally, she was charged with possessing alcohol that did not meet the required standards. She pleaded guilty to the charges, explaining that she had engaged in the business out of desperation to support herself and an adult child under her care. The granny will remain in custody until October 6, when she is scheduled for sentencing Credit Reference Bureaus have appealed to both business people and individuals to come forward and check status of their credit information. Speaking during a public awareness forum in Thika town, Metropol CRB Credit Manager Newton Karaba noted that not all Kenyans are conversant with how the CRB reporting system works, while discussion on what is described as blacklisting has always been marred by misinformation. Being negatively listed on a credit reference bureau can be upsetting for most people. Most Kenyans especially the youth have expressed major concern at the slightest mention of the name CRB and it has long been assumed that those who have been negatively listed will be unable to obtain credit going into the future, which is false. Thats why we have chosen to come out here and educate the masses on the importance of often checking their CRB listing, with a view to demystify the misinformation circulating about CRBs, he said. CRBs companies are charged with the responsibility of collecting credit information on borrowers, either businesses or individuals. Lenders submit details of borrowers to CRBs in order to enable other lenders to access the borrowing history of a specific borrower to help determine their credit worthiness. A CRB listing is very different from a negative listing, which basically refers to a situation, where a borrower has been reported for having a history of defaulting or failing to meet their credit obligations If your loan is negatively listed on CRB that would mean that it has been consistently classified as non-performing for an extended period of time, where the borrower did not attempt to make any partial payments, while the loan was still active. Consequently, it is unwise for borrowers to allow themselves to be negatively listed keeping in mind that the CRB shares their information with other lenders. Chances are that even when they clear the defaulted loans, next time they borrow, it may result in the defaulters being subjected to a stricter lending terms or being denied the loan all together, said Karaba. The Metropol credit manager said the ongoing campaign was an awareness initiative to sensitise not only borrowers but all people on the importance of regular checking of their CRB listings as it gives a borrower an idea of what creditors see, when they apply for credit and it also helps individuals identify and remove potentially damaging personal and financial data caused by identity theft, errors or out of date entries. A resident of Ngoingwa in Thika, Veronica Chege said she was happy to have finally understood what blacklisting actually means, while encouraging other residents to come out and check their listing status. Infact, I have now discovered I owe a certain lending institution money that I forgot to pay and since I dont want to negatively affect my credit score, I have been instructed on how to clear the debt and ultimately clear my name from the CRB, which I intend to do as soon as possible, she said. Meanwhile, CRBs are regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), which has the statutory power to issue on institutions that can submit credit reports. According to Metropol CRB, a total of 19 million Kenyans have been listed in the Credit Reference Bureau database, which is about 66 percent of the adult population in Kenya. The Credit Reference Bureau (CRB) reporting system has been the subject of a national conversation over the past one year, after President William Rutos administration announced plans to reform the CRB system to unlock access to credit for a larger group of Kenyans, as part of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformational Agenda (BETA). Via Kenya News Agency The Government has adopted reforms in the agricultural and livestock sectors aimed at attaining the countrys economic transformation, President William Ruto has said. President Ruto argued that the transformation of the country would only be achieved with the increased use of improved farm inputs as well as commercialization of Kenyas skins and hides across the globe. He said there was need for farmers produce to go through the value addition process to increase their competitiveness and income. Speaking during the official opening of the Nairobi International Trade Fair, held at the Jamhuri Park grounds, on Wednesday, President Ruto said the Government has increased the application of improved seeds and fertilizers as part of reforms to increase food production and reduce the cost of living. President Ruto said that the agricultural sector remains the backbone of Kenyas economic and industrial development, particularly income generation and provision of raw materials for manufacturing. Transforming agricultural productivity, therefore, is the most bankable strategy to turn around the economy of our country, said President Ruto. The Head of State enumerated several measures that have been taken by the Government to transform the agricultural sector including; availing adequate and affordable working capital to farmers for increased productivity. Risk mitigation He noted that the Government would comprehensively manage agricultural related risks to cushion farmers from uncertainty nature of farming. We will also assist 2 million food deficient farmers to become surplus producers through availing affordable finance for inputs and agricultural extension to increase productivity of key food value chains including maize and dairy products, said President Ruto. Dr Ruto added that efforts were being made to revamp underperforming or collapsed export crops rice, coffee, cashewnuts, pyrethrum, avocado and macadamia nuts. At the same time, President Ruto assured sugar and coffee farmers that the Government was doing everything possible to revitalize the sectors. He said the Cabinet has approved the write-off of Sh 117 billion owed by the state-owned sugar companies in readiness for leasing of the mills to the private sector entities. This intervention will inject competitiveness in the sector, and on expiry of the leases, the mills will revert to the communities on a cooperative model. Difficult decisions have been made to ensure that sugarcane production is restored, said President Ruto. Empowering farmers He said the Government is also undertaking regulatory reforms that will ensure farmer empowerment and a direct say by stakeholders in the affairs of the sugar industry The Head of State noted that although there was a market challenge at the moment in the coffee sector, the Government was doing everything possible to address the problem. We are doing everything possible to make sure that farmers do not suffer the consequences they went through in the recent past, said President Ruto. The Head of state further said plans are at an advanced stage for the Government to lease out idle land held by public institutions to private investors under the Land Commercialization Initiative. He said the move would go a long way in addressing the dwindling availability of land for farming. Nairobi Governor Johnstone Sakaja said the development of the agricultural sector remains key to addressing challenges facing the country. We are going to create a conducive environment for our farmers besides establishing markets for their produce, said Mr Sakaja. Present were Cabinet Secretaries Aden Duale (Defense), Simon Chelugui (Cooperatives and Micro and Small Enterprise), Attorney General Justin Muturi and deputy Chief Justice Philemona Mwilu among others. -Presidential Communication Service(PCS) A new state grant will help local prosecutors better support survivors of domestic violence as their cases go through the courts, the Napa County District Attorneys Office has announced. In a news release Wednesday, the office said it is receiving more than $200,000 from the California Office of Emergency Services starting in January. The grant will cover $172,545 in attorney costs, with the remaining $30,000 supporting a victim witness advocate. The funding, known as a vertical prosecution grant, calls for a deputy district attorney and a victim advocate to be involved in a domestic violence case from start to finish. Such deeper involvement is meant to build trust with a crime survivor, reduce victim trauma, provide better access to justice, and lead to more consistent and appropriate sentencing, according to the district attorneys office. These funds will empower the Napa DAs Office to continue approaching domestic violence cases in a comprehensive way, District Attorney Allison Haley said in the county statement. Oftentimes, the repercussions of domestic violence are far-reaching and can include physical, psychological, and economical repercussions, she said. Having a DA and victim advocate involved from the moment charges are filed, and quite frankly oftentimes before, to the moment when the final appeal is exhausted is a priority for this office. Photos: Napa Valley Faces and Places, September 23, 2023